TNAG-2224-FCO40-3195-Gulf-War-burden-sharing-Hong-Kong-contribution-1991 — Page 23

(a)

(b)

Notes on Decisions taken in Finance Committee

on 8 February 1991

Members approved items FCR (90-91) 125,

126, 156,

157,

158, 160, 161, 162, 166 and 167.

FCR (90-91) 169

HEAD 106

-

MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES

New Other Non-Recurrent Subhead "Contribution towards the resolution of the Gulf conflict"

In introducing the paper, the Chairman stressed that the coalition partners were acting to carry out the resolutions of the Security Council of the United Nations (UN). The nature of the conflict was such that it was likely

have international implications. Many of Hong Kong's (HK) trading partners were directly involved in the military operations. had itself, on occasions, called for international support.

to

HK

Mr. Allen Lee noted that the views of Members and the community had been split on the subject. He considered that while most people supported the contribution in principle as the right thing for HK to do, they would probably find it easier

probably find it easier to support the contribution if it was earmarked for the purposes of logistic, medical and humanitarian use. His personal view was that the funds should be contributed to the United Kingdom Government (UKG) to be disposed of

of as they saw fit, but he had to be guided by the voice of Members of the Finance Committee and

Committee and the community at large. He therefore proposed that the $230 million should be contributed to the UKG for logistic, medical and humanitarian use. It was time for HK to show that it was part of the world community.

After clarifying whether the amendment should best be put as a request or a condition, the Chairman put forward an amended Administration proposal inviting Members to approve the creation of a new Other Non-Recurrent Subhead "Contribution towards the resolution of the Gulf conflict" with supplementary provision of $230 million as a contribution towards Her Majesty's Government's current efforts in the Gulf, on condition that

that the contribution be used for logistic, medical, humanitarian, and other support facilities.