51
months. As a British Port of Registry it is assumed
that the UK will require the present system to continue
until 1997. If the arrangement is to be terminated,
consideration will require to be given to alternative
training methods and to the transitional measures
necessary.
5.23.
Consular assistance to Hong Kong ships
-
both
in the context of legal and administrative services - is
presently provided by HMG staff at various overseas
posts. This would cease after 1997. There is no reason
to suppose that the Chinese authorities would not then
be able to take over these services. It will be
necessary to examine the spread of Chinese consular
representation meanwhile so that consideration could be
given to the future appointment of suitable Hong Kong
SAR representatives in key areas where there is a
concentration of Hong Kong registered ships but no
Chinese consular presence.
Points of Concern to HMG
5.24.
It is unlikely that the provision of consular
services until 1997 will present HMG with any problems,
irrespective of the status of the Hong Kong Register.
We understand there is already a degree of assistance
afforded by certain posts to ships not on the British
register (e.g. to Australian ships).
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.