CPA Hong Kong Branch. Members met Hon. Andrew Wong, Dr Hon. Huang Chen-ya and Hon. Selina Chow; and began the process of learning about the positions of the various parties. These Legislative Councillors were concerned about the approach of the Governor and his proposals for greater democracy.
Mr Billy Lam - New Airport Project. A bold and imaginative enterprise of which most elements are on time despite lack of Chinese agreement. Obstacles to progress might be China's concern about debt and the draining away of Hong Kong's financial
resources.
Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce. The belief widespread in London that the Hong Kong business community en bloc is opposed to the Patten proposals was largely, although not completely, borne out. But see below.
Meeting with Sir David Ford, Chief Secretary and Acting Governor. An informed overview. Ford took a relaxed view of Patten's proposals and their effects on China.
Visit to Sham Shui Po District (Miss Linda Lai). An illuminating visit to a district containing housing developments and major reclamation and other engineering works. A very bright, intelligent woman.
Mr John Ashton - role of the Political Adviser. Another aspect of Hong Kong's government. It might be fruitful on a future occasion to combine this session with Mr Peter Lai's, setting the scene at the start of the briefing programme.
United Democrats.
Hon. Christine Loh - United Democrats.
Another facet of the developing party
political scene. Very supportive of Patten's proposals.
Mr Hugh Davies - Senior British Trade Commissioner. Dispiriting to hear yet again how poor British business is at exploiting opportunities.
Mr Eddy Chan - refugees. A clear exposition of the refugee problem and measures being taken to deal with it.
Visit to White Head Detention Centre. An informative visit. Hong Kong is tackling the problem of repatriation with care and efficiency.
OTHER BRIEFINGS AND MEETINGS PRIVATELY ARRANGED. OUTSIDE THE GOVERNMENT PROGRAMME
Tour of Oriental Press Centre. A fascinating visit to an impressive newspaper operation.
Breakfast meeting with members of the Preliminary Working Committee.
Mr Wong Po Yan and especially Mr Vincent Lo Hong-sui gave members a good view of the Chinese (Peking) perspective on the Patten proposals. Very worried about perceived lack of understanding by Patten of the Chinese approach to negotiations.
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Private notes are available after approval.