ENG-1994 — Page 81

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IMPLEMENTATION

OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION

THE Sino-British Joint Declaration on the Question of Hong Kong was signed by the British and Chinese Governments on December 19, 1984. Under the terms of the agreement, on July 1, 1997, the British Government will restore Hong Kong to the People's Republic of China and Hong Kong will become a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, enjoying a high degree of autonomy. Also, the capitalist system and lifestyle of Hong Kong will remain unchanged for 50 years.

To ensure effective implementation of its provisions, the Joint Declaration provided for the establishment of the Sino-British Joint Liaison Group (JLG) and the Sino-British Land Commission.

The Sino-British Joint Liaison Group

The functions of the JLG 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 upon by the two sides. It is an organ for liaison, with no role in the administration of Hong Kong.

The JLG comprises a senior representative and four other members on each side. It held its first meeting in July 1985. Since July 1988, it has taken Hong Kong as its principal base. Both sides have established offices in the territory and their respective senior repre- sentatives are resident in Hong Kong.

The JLG holds plenary sessions at least once every year in Beijing and London, besides Hong Kong.

During the year, the JLG held three plenary sessions in June, September and December, the last one being its 31st meeting. It also held expert talks on a number of issues. Matters discussed included defence lands, the Court of Final Appeal, major franchises and con- tracts extending beyond 1997, right of abode, travel documents, international rights and obligations, air services agreements, arrangements for the surrender of fugitives, mutual legal assistance agreements, and localisation and adaptation of laws.

While progress in a number of areas has been possible, many important issues still need to be resolved in the JLG.

The British side has expressed willingness to explore with the Chinese side various means to speed up the work of the JLG, including the holding of more plenary sessions and expert group meetings.

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