TNAG-2716-FCO40-3922-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-enquiry-1993 — Page 63

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Progress in the JLG

2.03

Thank you for inviting me to discuss the question

of progress in the Joint Liaison Group.

2.

I should perhaps

perhaps start by reminding Members of

the JLG is. The Joint Declaration sets out the

functions of the JLG as being

what

a)

b)

c)

to conduct consultations on the implementation of

the Joint Declaration;

to discuss matters relating to the smooth transfer

of government in 1997; and

to exchange information and conduct consultations

such subjects as may be agreed by the two

on

sides.

3.

In short the JLG is the forum where the British and the Chinese sides discuss the details of achieving a smooth transition. It is an organ for liaison and not an

organ of power.

It does not play any part in the administration of Hong Kong. Many of the issues which it

They are,

I can therefore

tackles are technical and not political. however, as members know, very important.

well understand that Members are keen to learn about progress in the JLG and I will do my best

do my best to provide as much information as I can.

4 ·

But Members will understand that I am bound by the provision in the Joint Declaration that says proceedings in the JLG shall remain confidential unless otherwise agreed between the two sides.

SZE EDWARDS

IN LESCO