ENG-1991 — Page 65

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IMPLEMENTATION

OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION

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DISCUSSIONS on the implementation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration on the Question of Hong Kong continued. Progress has been made in the work of both the Sino-British Joint Liaison Group (JLG) and the Sino-British Land Commission.

The Sino-British Joint Liaison Group

The Joint Liaison Group was established in accordance with the provisions of Annex II to the Joint Declaration. Its functions are 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 on such subjects as may be agreed by the two sides. As the JLG is an organ for liaison, and not an organ of power, it plays no part in the administration of Hong Kong.

The JLG comprises a senior representative and four other members on each side. Supporting staff and experts also attend meetings as appropriate. In accordance with the provisions in Annex II to the Joint Declaration, the JLG has taken Hong Kong as its principal base since July 1, 1988. Both sides have established their offices here and their respective senior representatives are now resident in Hong Kong. This has facilitated closer liaison which has led to more rapid progress on many issues. The JLG will, never- theless, continue to hold plenary sessions at least once every year in Beijing, London and Hong Kong.

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During the year, four plenary sessions were held and expert talks on a number of items also took place. Progress in several important areas has been made.

Defence and Public Order

Both in the JLG itself and in talks at expert level between JLG meetings, discussions on the implementation of the Joint Declaration in respect of defence and the maintenance of public order were carried out. Information and views on a wide range of practical matters relating to this issue were exchanged. Such exchanges are necessary for developing understanding between the two sides to pave the way for a smooth transfer of defence responsibilities from Britain to China in 1997.

Court of Final Appeal

The Joint Declaration provides for the establishment of a Court of Final Appeal in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. During 1991, the two sides continued their