TNAG-2733-FCO40-3939-Future-of-Hong-Kong-constitutional-development-1993 — Page 27

Reference.

Di Constit Beyt

(sen)

Mr Ricketts

cc Mr Morris

Ms Saunders

Mr Bunten

GOVERNOR'S ADDRESS TO LEGCO

1. I have a few comments on the extracts from the draft of the Governor's address:

(i) Para 21, first sentence: this of course is true and I do not suggest amendment. However, it is rather at odds with the line we have used consistently in the JLG that we do not need Chinese agreement for franchises/contracts/major projects extending beyond 1997.

(ii) Para 22: this paragraph gives the impression that we are not getting any cooperation from the Chinese on infrastructure projects, and that they are yet to be convinced of the need for modernisation/expansion of port and airport facilities. In my view it would be better to target our complaints specifically at airport financing and CT9 as we are now getting cooperation on other projects (eg Western Harbour Crossing, Central/Wanchai Reclamation and Landfills).

(iii) Para 28, second sentence: it is rather weak to argue that if Hong Kong does not have CT9 this will result in more traffic jams. Far better to focus the argument on loss of profits for business, increased costs (due to delays), and possibly loss of business itself.

(iv) Para 178: when HKG introduces the Court of Final Appeal Bill, I can see LegCo playing back to them some of this paragraph.

Ar

NC G Whitney

Hong Kong Department WH304 270 2651

28 September 1993

add.let.ADM

SLM

CODE 18-77