TNAG-2308-FCO40-3345-Future-of-Hong-Kong-shipping-register-1991 — Page 156

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Options for a Flag on the New Register

8.4.

The concept of a register separate from the UK

before 1997 and from China after 1997, yet recognising

the sovereign power is a difficult one. It will need

the support, understanding and recognition of the

international community. The flag will play an

important role.

8.5.

The flag options available appear to be:-

(a)

use the Red Ensign up till 1997 and the

PRC Flag thereafter;

(b)

as (a) above but fly, in addition, a new

and distinctive Hong Kong flag;

(c)

adopt a totally new flag for use by Hong

Kong before 1997 retaining the same flag

after 1997;

(d) fly a Red Ensign defaced with an

apolitical Hong Kong emblem before 1997

and a PRC flag similarly defaced after

1997; or