TNAG-2965-FCO40-4244-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Consular-representation-of-European-Coun-1993 — Page 51

2

(4)

(5)

(6)

addition

01

those listed

che Schedule,

number of privileges and immunities may be granted administratively. These include the use of the EC flag and emblem, the inviolability of

of official

correspondence, as well as exemptions regarding

social security payments, public services and immigration restrictions on the members of the

office.

is

we

As the granting of privileges and immunities

essentially a matter

matter for the sovereign power,

could not provide

guarantee for their

continuation beyond the change of sovereignty in

1997.. We would, however,

however, make every effort to

ensure Chinese agreement that they might do so. Moreover, the establishment of the EC office under Cap. 190 would not preclude the EC itself, perhaps with other international organisations and Consulates General, from seeking e similar

enhanced status from the Chinese nearer to 1997.

The way forward

We suggest that the Commission should now let us have their revised list of privileges and immunities. Both parties' experts could then work together

see how privileges and immunities could be provided for in the best manner possible under Hong Kong's existing laws and/or through administrative

arrangements where

that

is

possible.