Daily Information Bulletin

Issued by Government Information Services
Garden Road, 5th-8th Floors, Murray Building, Hong Kong. Tel: 2842 8777

Monday, June 30, 1997

CONTENTS
========
1. Smoke Found at Convention Centre
2. HK and Korea sign investment protection agreement
3. Special transport arrangements on SAR Establishment Day
4. Governor's meeting with Madeleine Albright
5. Foreign Secretary's remarks after meeting Albright
6. Transcript of the Prime Minister on arrival
7. Transcript of media session by British Foreign Secretary & CS
8. Programme rundown of Farewell Ceremony
9. Performers and cast in Farewell Ceremony
10. Facts, figures and stats of the Farewell Ceremony
11. Governor's Speech at Farewell Ceremony
12. Celebration of Hong Kong's success
13. Farewell Ceremony marks end of British administration
14. Queen Elizabeth speaks of lasting ties with Hong Kong
15. Queen's message for Farewell Ceremony
16. Governor's telegram to London
17. Handover Operation Runs Smoothly
18. Banquet guests toast the future of Hong Kong

1. Smoke Found at Convention Centre
********************************

In response to press enquiries on a smoke found case at Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, a Police spokesman said this (Monday) morning:

"Members of Police Search Team, while conducting security checks at the centre around 11.30 pm last (Sunday) night, found some tans were left unattended beside a flower bed on Convention Avenue.

When five of the seven tans were opened, smoke emitted from some unknown liquid inside. Police immediately informed Fire Services Department for assistance.

Upon examination by firemen and a government chemist, it was confirmed that the tans were actually containing hydrochloric acid commonly used for cleaning purpose.

Police believe they had been left behind by cleaning workers at the Convention Centre."

End

2. HK and Korea sign investment protection agreement
*************************************************

An internationally binding investment promotion and protection agreement (IPPA) was signed between Hong Kong and Korea today (Monday).

The agreement was signed in Hong Kong by the Secretary for Trade and Industry, Miss Denise Yue, on behalf of the Hong Kong Government, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, Mr Yoo Chong-Ha, on behalf of the Korean Government.

At the ceremony, Miss Yue conveyed her thankfulness for Mr Yoo's visit to Hong Kong to witness the handover.

Under the terms of the IPPA, the two Governments will provide for the equal treatment of investors, compensation if investments are expropriated, and free transfer of investments and returns.

The agreement will also provide for the settlement of investment disputes in accordance with internationally accepted rules.

Korea is Hong Kong's tenth largest foreign investor. As at end 1995, investment from Korea amounted to US$1 billion, representing 1.5 per cent of total foreign investment in Hong Kong.

Correspondingly, Hong Kong is Korea's sixth largest source of foreign investment. Hong Kong's accumulated investment in Korea was HK$422 million at the end of 1994.

This agreement is the 13th that Hong Kong has signed in the area of investment promotion and protection. Other countries with which Hong Kong has signed a similar agreement are the Netherlands, Australia, Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland, New Zealand, Italy, France, Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg, Austria and Japan.

End

3. Special transport arrangements on SAR Establishment Day
*******************************************************

The Transport Department today (Monday) reminds the public that special traffic and transport arrangements will be implemented to facilitate various celebration activities to be held on the Special Administrative Region Establishment Day on July 1.

Mass Transit Railway services will be strengthened from 7 pm to midnight while the Kowloon-Canton Railway services will be strengthened from 10 pm to 11.15 pm.

Peak tram services will be extended to 5 am the next morning.

The North Point - Whitty Street tram services will be strengthened and a supplementary tram service from Causeway Bay to Shau Kei Wan will be operated after the fireworks display which will be held from 9 pm to 10 pm.

The services of the Central to Mid-Levels Escalators will be extended to midnight.

On July 1, a number of roads in Tsim Sha Tsui, Wan Chai, Central, Causeway Bay, Happy Valley and the Peak will be closed temporarily. The Lan Kwai Fong area will be closed if necessary between 8 pm to 3 am the following morning.

Traffic in Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui is expected to be heavier on that day. Members of the public please make use of public transport to travel to and from these areas.

As such, buses and green minibuses (GMB) diversions will be implemented accordingly.

(A) Bus and green minibus (GMB) services
------------------------------------

(1) Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB)
-----------------------

KMB will operate three special bus services, no.N60, N68 and N268, in the early morning on July 2. Details are as follows:

(a) N60 (Tsuen Wan MTR Station - Tuen Mun Town Centre)
will be operated from 00.10 am to 3 am. Fare for
each single journey is $9.60 while fare for air-
conditioned bus services will be $13.40;

(b) N68 (Jordan Road Ferry - Yuen Long (East)) will be
operated from 1.05 am to 2.30 am. Fare for each
single journey is $12.30 while the fare for air-
conditioned bus services will be $19.0; and

(c) N268 (Tsuen Wan MTR Station - Yuen Long (East)) will
be operated from midnight on July 1 to 3 am on July
2. Fare for each single journey will be $15.50.

KMB routes no.28, 60M, 60X, 61X, 66M, 67X, 98A, 98D, 215X and 219X will extend services to 00.30 am on July 2. The services of routes no.1, 1A, 5, 5C, 6, 26, 35A, 41A, 42A, 58M, 59M, 74X, 75X, 234X and 238X will be extended to 1 am and routes no.58X, 59X, 67M and 72X will be extended to 1.30 am on July 2.

Routes no.5A and 208 will be suspended from 4.42 pm and 4.22 pm onwards respectively.

(2) China Motor Bus (CMB)
---------------------

CMB will operate a special bus route no.15X plying between Central and the Peak from 4.45 pm to 11.35 pm at a 15-minute interval. Fare for each single journey is $6.10 and $8.20 for air-conditioned buses.

Routes no.20, 21, 88 and 780 on the bothbound journeys will be diverted from their first departures of the day. Routes no.43X, 590 will be diverted from 7.30 pm onwards for the holding of Hong Kong '97 Spectacular.

Moreover, in case of closure of D'Aguilar Street, route no.13 on its journeys to Kotewall Road will be diverted.

(3) Citybus (CTB)
-------------

CTB route no.260 will be diverted from 7.30 pm onwards for the holding of Hong Kong '97 Spectacular.

To facilitate the holding of the Buddhist Gathering at the Hong Kong Stadium, CTB route no.5B will be diverted from 9 am.

Moreover, if the closure of D'Aguilar Street is necessary, route no.12M and 40M on its journeys to Park Road and Wah Fu will be diverted.

(4) Cross Harbour Tunnel Bus services (XHT)
---------------------------------------

A special bus route no.N960 (Wan Chai to Kin Sang only) will be operated from 00.35 am to 3 am on July 2 at a 10/12-minute interval. Fare for single journey is $25 and the section fare is $18.

KMB route no.A2 and XHT route no.104 on their ways to Kowloon will be diverted from the first departures of the day. Routes no.102, 106 and A5 will be diverted from 10 am and route no.603 will be diverted from 6 pm onwards.

Routes no.103, 104, 108, 118, 170, 601, A3 and A20 will be diverted from 7.30 pm onwards for the holding of the Hong Kong '97 Spectacular.

(5) Green minibuses (GMB)
---------------------
Hong Kong Island
----------------

The services of route no.49M (Tin Hau MTR Station - Braemar Hill) and no.50 (Yiu Tung Estate - Sai Wan Ho) will be extended to 3 am the following morning. The fare charged during the extension period for no.49M and 50 will be $3.50 and $2.50 respectively.

Routes no.4A, 4C, 27 and 36A will be strengthened.

Routes no.10, 11, 24A, 24M, 25, 25A, 31, 54 and 55 will be diverted from 7 pm to 11 pm. Route 5, 14M, 30 and 30A will be diverted from 9 am onwards.

Kowloon
-------

Routes no.63 (Lam Tin - Kwun Tong) and 22M (Lok Wah Estate - Kwun Tong) will be extended to 3 am and 6 am the following morning respectively. The fare to be charged during the extended periods will be $5.00 and $3.00 respectively.

Route no.1 (Star Ferry - Tsim Sha Tsui East) will be suspended. Route no.3, 6, 7, 8, 62S, 606S and 610S will be diverted.

(6) Ferry Services
--------------

To facilitate the holding of the Hong Kong '97 Spectacular, ferry services will be altered as follows:

HYF Services
------------

(a) Early Curtailment of Ferry Services
-----------------------------------

Departure Time
of Last Sailing
---------------

(i) Central - Tsim Sha Tsui East

From Central 7 pm
From Tsim Sha Tsui East 7.10 pm

(ii) North Point - Kowloon City

From Kowloon City 8.05 pm
From North Point 7.50 pm

(iii) North Point - Hung Hom

From North Point 8.00 pm
From Hung Hom 8.15 pm

(iv) Mui Wo - Tsim Sha Tsui

From Mui Wo 6.00 pm

(v) Central - Gold Coast

From Central 8.30 pm
From Gold Coast 7.45 pm

(b) Temporary suspension of ferry services
--------------------------------------

Departure time Departure time
of last of first
sailing before sailing after
harbour closure harbour
--------------- re-opened
--------------

(i) Central - Jordan

From Jordan 8.10 pm 11.10 pm
From Central 8.10 pm 11.10 pm

(ii) Central - Mui Wo

From Central 8.30 pm 11.15 pm
From Mui Wo 7.30 pm 10.00 pm

(iii) Central - Peng Chau

From Central 8.30 pm 11.15 pm
From Peng Chau 7.30 pm 10.20 pm

(iv) Central - Cheung Chau

From Central 8.20 pm 11.30 pm
From Cheung Chau 7.30 pm 10.30 pm

(v) Central - Yung Shue Wan

From Central 8.30 pm 11.20 pm
From Yung Shue Wan 7.45 pm 10.35 pm

(vi) Central - Sok Kwu Wan

From Central 8.30 pm 11.00 pm
From Sok Kwu Wan 7.30 pm 10.20 pm

Star Ferry Services
-------------------

(a) Suspension of Ferry Service
---------------------------

From 8 pm :

(i) Edinburgh Place - Tsim Sha Tsui

(ii)Tsim Sha Tsui - Wan Chai

(b) Extension of Service
--------------------

Period of Extension
-------------------

Edinburgh Place - Tsim Sha Tsui up to 3 am on July 2

Wan Chai - Tsim Sha Tsui up to midnight on July 1

Discovery Bay ferry services
----------------------------

Ferry services between Central and Discovery Bay will be rescheduled.

Moreover, the ferry services departing from Edinburgh Place and Discovery Bay will be suspended from 8.21 pm to 10.59 pm and from 8.21 pm to 10.29 pm respectively.

Other
-----

The resumption of ferry services will depend on whether the Marine Department and Marine Police consider the situation to be safe or not. Ferry passengers please be patience.

End

4. Governor's meeting with Madeleine Albright
******************************************

Following the meeting this morning between the Governor, the Right Honourable Christopher Patten, and U.S. Secretary of State Mrs Madeleine Albright at Government House, the Governor's spokesman said as follows :-

"The Governor and Mrs Albright had a very good and thorough meeting. Mr Patten took the opportunity to thank Mrs Albright for the close personal interest she has taken in Hong Kong.

Mrs Albright assured the Governor that she would continue to give priority to Hong Kong and Hong Kong concerns.

Mr Patten stressed the importance of the civil service and the rule of law in Hong Kong. He said his confidence in the future had increased in recent months amid signs that Hong Kong people were prepared to stand up for issues they considered important to them and their way of life. But he also acknowledged that there were concerns in the community about political freedoms and corruption after the handover."

End

5. Foreign Secretary's remarks after meeting Albright
**************************************************

Following is the transcript of the media session given by the British Foreign Secretary, the Right Honourable Robin Cook at the Central Heliport after meeting the US Secretary of State, Ms Madeleine Albright on the Britannia today(Monday):

Mr Cook: Good morning. This morning, Madeleine Albright, Secretary of State of the US and myself have had a very good exchange which has focused mainly on Hong Kong and on its future. We are both confident that Hong Kong can have a prosperous future and a free future, if the terms of the Joint Declaration are adhered to. We are particularly concerned that, as from midnight tonight, the elected Legislative Council will be dismissed and replaced by a provisional legislative council.

I am very grateful to the support the United States has shown to Britain on this issue and am very pleased that, tonight, Madeleine Albright will be joining Tony Blair and myself in absenting ourselves from the swearing in-ceremony of the Provisional LegCo.

After tonight, what is important is that democracy is restored to Hong Kong and that is why we are both agreed and are both saying to the members of both the Hong Kong Government of the future and the representatives of the government of the People's Republic of China that there must be restored to Hong Kong free and fair elections for a new democratic legislative council as soon as possible and, in any event, within 12 months. We are both agreed that we will maintain close contact on this and will also be remaining in close contact with the people and government of Hong Kong to make sure that Hong Kong does have a future that is both prosperous and free and democratic.

Question: Today, with the handover coming so soon now - a matter of hours - how you feel about the fact that at this hour tomorrow there will be 4,000 Chinese troops and what kind of signal that sends, Mr Foreign Secretary and Madam Secretary? What are you telling Beijing about that?

Mr Cook: Well, first of all, can I, just before I address the question of the provisional -- the question of the People's Liberation Army, which I will come to and deal with fully, can I just say that I do think that it is important that, in the reporting of this handover event, that a proper balance is struck. And one of the issues that does encourage me is that, as we approach midnight, there is more confidence in Hong Kong's future than any of us could necessarily have predicted five years ago. You are in a city in which the stock exchange is rising, property prices are rising, investment is leaping upwards and, perhaps most important of all, there are more people coming to Hong Kong to stay in Hong Kong than are leaving Hong Kong at the present time. And that argues a very strong degree of confidence in its future. And I believe, if the terms of the Joint Declaration are adhered to, that future for Hong Kong can be as good for the next 50 years as the past 50. The issue of the People's Liberation Army is, of course, one of concern. Under terms of the Joint Declaration, The People's Republic of China has the right to station Chinese troops within Hong Kong but those troops must be for external defence only. The Joint Declaration and the Basic Law are absolutely clear that the internal security of Hong Kong is a matter for the Hong Kong Government and for the Hong Kong Police. Therefore, it is very important that those Chinese units deployed here are not seen on the streets of Hong Kong, where they have no place and no right in terms of the Basic Law.

Question: Mr Cook, would you be hoping, now, for a new start in Sino-British relations from the meeting this afternoon with President Jiang Zemin? And, could I just ask you, what are your personal thoughts and emotions today? Are you a little sad?

Mr Cook: Well, first of all, on the question of the meeting, which Mr Blair and myself will be having with the two Chinese leaders, Jiang Zemin and Li Peng, we will certainly be looking at ways in which we can have a constructive working relationship with the People's Republic of China. Yes, we do want a new start with Beijing. We want to be able to deal with each other as major players on the international scene and also as countries that have quite a strong and developing economic link. Of course, central to that relationship will be Hong Kong. We see Hong Kong as potentially a bridge, not a barrier, between ourselves and China. The success, though, of building that bridge depends on both sides standing by the Joint Declaration, which provides a firm foundation for a successful bridge between us. As to my emotions, I think that that there are two emotions that any responsible British leader would have at the present time: one is, I think, that we can have a degree of satisfaction at what we have achieved here in Hong Kong. We have provided the government environment in which we have seen one of the most dynamic and thriving economies anywhere in the world, achieved against the odds in an area with no natural resources. That is something which, I think, Britain can take satisfaction. There are very few colonial powers could ever walk away from a colony knowing that they leave behind a higher per capita income than we have back home. Not many other countries would ever be able to say that. But, secondly, I think one has to have an attitude to the future which is one of vigilance. The arrangements that have been put in place are arrangements that should provide for both the continuing prosperity and for the continuing freedom of Hong Kong. Britain's role now must be to vigilance to make sure that those terms are kept. One last question and I must go.

Question: Mr Foreign Secretary, one of your predecessors, Sir Geoffrey Howe, actually negotiated, in 1984 -- has now expressed discontent and concern at the way Governor Patten has altered the political life of Hong Kong. Do you think that this provides a sort of sour note for this handover? Does Britain seem split going into this long goodbye?

Mr Cook: I have to say that one of the solid reasons for Labour's very good performance in the recent election is that we never took sides in disputes inside the Tory party. Thank you very much.

End

6. Transcript of the Prime Minister on arrival
*******************************************

Following is the transcript of the media session given by the Governor, the Rt Hon Christopher Patten, and British Prime Minister, the Rt Hon Tony Blair, at the airport today (Monday):

Governor: Good morning. I'd like to welcome the Prime Minister to Hong Kong. We're delighted that he's been able to come with his wife to take part in the ceremonies today, which are of such historic importance for Hong Kong. We're very, very pleased that you've been able to come, Prime Minister, despite all the other things in your diary and perhaps you'd like to say a word or two to the people here.

Mr Blair: Thank you. Well, first of all I should like to say how pleased I am to be here and to pay tribute to all the work that Governor Patten has done over this past five years. This is, obviously, a momentous day for China, for Britain and, most of all, for the people of Hong Kong. Hong Kong has become one of the most successful and prosperous parts of the world and we're delighted to be here and to wish it well for the future. Now, any question?

Question: What is the principal message that you'll be giving to Jiang Zemin this evening?

Mr Blair: What is absolutely essential is that there are two pillars -- foundations, of our relationship for the future. The first is adherence to the Joint Declaration - the agreement between Britain and China that guarantees the future prosperity and freedom of Hong Kong, and, secondly, our desire to build a strong and stable relationship with China for the future, which is in both the interests of the people of Hong Kong as well as the people of the United Kingdom.

Question: To what degree will your foreign policy be different from your predecessors in dealing with China?

Mr Blair: I think what is important is to recognise that the absolute, basic foundation has got to be adherence to the Joint Declaration. This is the agreement that Britain and China have fashioned together. It is the agreement that we want to see remain in place. It is the agreement upon which the stability of Hong Kong is based. But it is also important that we build, for the future, a strong, constructive relationship with China, because that is in the interests of the people here, in the interests of the people of the United Kingdom and, of course, in the interests of the people of China. And I believe, as I say, that those twin pillars of our relationship is what is essential for the future.

Question: Are you confident about the future prosperity and the smooth transfer of Hong Kong?

Mr Blair: Yes, I believe that that is possible, provided we adhere to the basic agreements that we have got and, as you will know better than I, Hong Kong is a thriving and prosperous place. I feel a sense of pride, actually, in the way that Hong Kong has been governed, has been allowed to develop in such a prosperous and stable way and I'm sure that it has a good future, a prosperous future for the people of Hong Kong, provided we keep in place those basic agreements that we have. Thank you very much indeed.

End

7. Transcript of media session by British Foreign Secretary & CS
**********************************************

Following is the transcript of the media session by British Foreign Secretary Robin Cook after a meeting with Chief Secretary Anson Chan this (Monday) morning.

Mr Cook: We had a very good and full discussion together in which we have reviewed the past but also looked forward to the future. I would like to take this opportunity of saying that I think one of the strengths of Hong Kong has been a competent, independent and efficient civil service.

The British, in leaving Hong Kong, leave that civil service in place. It has been one of the parts of the environment of the government of Hong Kong that has made possible the thriving economic success of Hong Kong.

I very much believe that it is vital to the future prosperity of Hong Kong that the civil service does continue to play that role and does continue to be allowed to retain its integrity and its efficiency and its own internal confidence in itself.

I would like to thank Anson Chan in particular for the leadership she has provided to that civil service. We are very conscious of how hard she has worked and how dedicated she has been in maintaining that civil service regime and I would also like to record Britain's thanks to all those who have served in the Hong Kong administration up to and including today.

It is a very important asset to Hong Kong and one that we believe that the Government of Hong Kong and the SAR that takes over at midnight will wish to preserve and will wish to build on as part of the guarantees of the future freedoms and prosperity of Hong Kong.

I am in Hong Kong today to do two things. First of all, tonight, to make sure that we have a dignified Handover Ceremony, that reflects the enormous historic significance of what we are doing here in Hong Kong. But also to make sure that we have laid a firm foundation for the future of Hong Kong and part of that firm foundation is the health and the strength of the civil service that we leave behind. Anson do you wish to say anything?

Mrs Anson Chan: First of all thank you very much for your very kind words about myself and the civil service. I can assure you that myself and all my senior colleagues within the civil service will be giving full support to C H Tung to hopefully make a success of the one country, two systems concept.

As the Foreign Secretary said we've had a very useful discussion. I particularly welcomed Mr Cook's assurance of Britain's continued commitment towards Hong Kong, not only as a co-signatory to the Joint Declaration but also as one of Hong Kong's major trading partners and one of Hong Kong's oldest friends.

The Foreign Secretary has also assured me that they will continue to lobby for visa-free access on behalf of Hong Kong SAR passport holders and that's very much welcomed. We will of course continue to have very, very strong links with Britain and we look forward to future meetings with British officials and the Secretary of State. Thank you.

Question: You have met Chinese Foreign Ministry officials in the morning ...(not clear) what has been discussed and did it affect Hong Kong?

Mr Cook: We discussed mostly Hong Kong. We touched on one or two other world affairs. For instance we did say that we wanted to see China within the World Trade Organisation, which we believe is where such a large and growing trading nation should be.

I also look forward to the future Europe-Asia Summit which Britain will be hosting as the president of the European Union next year.

But for the most part our discussions did focus on Hong Kong. I stressed that Britain wants to see Hong Kong act as a bridge between Britain and China for the future but the success of that bridge will depend very much on the observance of the terms of the Joint Declaration, which provides the firm foundation for the future of Hong Kong.

I expressed our own disagreement with the decision to disband the elected Legislative Council, and I asked for
assurances there would be, at an early date, elections to a new democratic Legislative Council. Qian Qichen (Chinese Foreign Minister) did give me an assurance that it was their intention their should be elections within the next 12 months.

I expressed our regret that the Chinese People's Liberation Army was being sent across in such large numbers, although I recognise that China does have responsibility for the external defence of Hong Kong.

I asked the Foreign Minister for his assurance that they shared our view that the Joint declaration provides for the Chinese Army to play no part in the internal security of Hong Kong.

I'm pleased to say that Qian Qichen did confirm that China also agrees that the internal security of Hong Kong is a matter for the SAR Government and for its Police Force. It is not a matter for the PLA.

End

8. Programme rundown of Farewell Ceremony
**************************************

The Farewell Ceremony started at 6.15 pm and will end at 7.30 pm.

Guests arrive - Massed bands of the Royal Hong Kong Police and Royal Hong Kong Auxiliary Police

Opening - Dragon dance

Royal Procession - 21-gun salute fired from HMS Chatham followed by Royal Fanfare

The Spirit of Hong Kong - dance and music performance

Welcome - Narrators Brian Blessed and Frances Yip

Choral performance - Hong Kong Children's Choir

Musical Interlude - Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra

Vocal performance - Dame Gwyneth Jones and Warren Mok

Governor's address - His Excellency, the Right Honourable Christopher Patten

Musical interlude - Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra

Military pageant - Massed bands of the Royal Marines, the Scots Guards and the Scottish Division with the Pipes and Drums of 1st Battalion The Black Watch and The Brigade of Gurkhas

Guards of Honour March On - Royal Navy, Army, Royal Air Force

Royal Salute - National Anthem

Royal Address - HRH The Prince of Wales

Sunset - Union and Hong Kong flags lowered

Lone Piper - Pipe Major Steven Small, 1st Battalion The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment)

Guards of Honour March Off

Finale - Massed bands, Pipes and Drums, orchestras, choirs and cast - Rhythm of My Heart

Royal Procession - HRH The Prince of Wales and HE The Governor depart

End

9. Performers and cast in Farewell Ceremony
****************************************

Narrators: Brian Blessed, Frances Yip

Vocal performance: Dame Gwyneth Jones, Warren Mok

Arrival music: The Massed Bands of the Royal Hong Kong Police and the Royal Hong Kong Auxiliary Police

*'Spirit of Hong Kong' and other sections of the performance

Orchestras
----------

The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by David Atherton

The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra conducted by Yan Huichang

Drummers
--------

The drummers come from five groups:

Hong Kong Music Lover Chinese Orchestra; Hong Kong International School; The Island Sun Drum; The Music Office; Wang Kwong Chinese Orchestra

Choirs
------

The Hong Kong Children's Choir conducted by Kathy Fok; Diocesan Boys' School Choir; Hong Kong Bach Choir; Hong Kong Philharmonic Chorus; The Cecilian Singers

Cast
----

Chinese YMCA Secondary School; Chan Shu Kui Memorial School; Island School; King George V School; New Territories and Juveniles Association Ltd Leung Shing Tak Primary School; Sha Tin College; Sha Tin Junior College; St Stephen's College; The Hong Kong Girl Guides Association; West Island School

Dancers
-------

Academy of Performing Arts; Chapio School of Ballet; Christine Liao School of Ballet

Dragon Dance
------------

The Ha Hon Hung Sport Association

Tai Chi
-------

The SKH Diocesan Welfare Council

* Military Pageant

Guards of Honour
----------------

Royal Navy: The Royal Navy Guard of Honour is made up of members of the ship's company of HMS Chatham and HMS Illustrious. HMS Chatham, a Type 22 frigate, arrived in Hong Kong on June 2 to assist with the Handover and will depart at midnight accompanying Her Majesty's Yacht Britannia out of Hong Kong. HMS Illustrious, an aircraft carrier, is currently on Exercise Ocean Wave in the Pacific Rim. She has detached a number of personnel to Hong Kong to make up the Royal Navy Guard of Honour.

Army: The Army Guard of Honour is formed from 1st Battalion The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment), Scotland's senior Highland Regiment. It originated from the six independent companies raised in 1725 to police the Highlands during the unrest which followed the Jacobite rising. The Regiment has 168 Battle Honours of which 52 campaigns can be seen on the Queen's and Regimental Colours which were presented to the Regiment in September 1996 by their Colonel in Chief, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. The Black Watch is the last Resident Infantry Battalion to be stationed in Hong Kong, their third tour to the territory in the past 26 years.

Royal Air Force: The Queen's Colour Squadron is providing the Royal Air Force Guard of Honour. It is a ceremonial drill unit formed in 1960 and manned exclusively by officers and airmen of the Royal Air Force Regiment. When not taking part in ceremonial events, the Squadron trains in its operational role of airfield protection. The Squadron is based at RAF Uxbridge in Middlesex and has the honour of providing the escort to the Queen's Colour of the Royal Air Force. The colour will be carried at the Farewell Parade.

The Military Bands
------------------

There are five Military Bands playing in the Farewell ceremony. The bands will be directed by Lieutenant Colonel David Price, Director of Music Division Scots Guards, Senior Director of Music. The Lone Piper is Pipe Major Steven Small, 1st Battalion The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment)

The Band of the Royal Marines: The Royal Marines Band Service provides bands for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. There are six bands in all. The band on parade consists mainly of musicians from two of the bands, the Band of HM Royal Marines Portsmouth, currently serving on HMY Britannia, and the Band of the Royal Marines Plymouth, embarked on Exercise Ocean Wave aboard HMS Illustrious.

The Band of the Scots Guards: Dating back to 1662, the Band of the Scots Guards shares the duties of daily Guard Mounting at Buckingham Palace with the other four Foot Guards Bands. The famous black 'Bearskin' headgear, worn on parade, was copied as a battle trophy from Napoleon's Imperial Guard.

The Highland Band of the Scottish Division: Formed in 1994, the Highland Band incorporates musicians from four Highland Regiments: The Black Watch, Queen's Own Highlanders, Gordon Highlanders and The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. The band is permanently based in Edinburgh.

The Pipes and Drums of the 1st Battalion The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment): The Pipes and Drums are soldiers as well as musicians, forming the machine gun platoon. Unlike most military musicians, they must memorise entire concerts as well as learn the complicated drill movements that make up a Pipes and Drums display.

The Pipes and Drums of the Brigade of Gurkhas: Gurkha Regiments have maintained Pipe Bands since the 1890s, when they were stationed alongside Scottish regiments. The Pipe Band on parade today is drawn from the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the Royal Gurkha Rifles.

End

10. Facts, figures and stats of the Farewell Ceremony
*************************************************

Construction/Stands
-------------------

Seating stands: 68,500 components weighing 443-tonnes
Seating Capacity: 10,000
Height of stands: 12-metres
Total weight of all equipment shipped from the UK, Australia, Canada and Singapore: 300-tonnes
Mobile toilets: 123

Staging
-------

Area of two stages: 1,000 square metres
Arena: 85-metres x 85-metres
Stage canopies: 19-metres high, 25-tonnes each
Foundation/cantalidge for two canopies: 700-kilogrammes
Flag poles: 21-metres high

Lighting
--------

Lighting towers: Five towers, each 30-metres high
Static lamps and moving lights: 100 automated luminaires and 400 theatrical/TV luminaires
Spot lights: Eight, imported from Australia
Microphones: 100
Power cable feed: 15-kilometres
Power supply: 15,000 amps (enough for 500 flats)
Electrical connectors: 2,400

Crew
----

Technicians/specialists: 150, from Hong Kong, UK, Australia, New Zealand, America
Man hours from start to finish: 10,000
Water consumption: 25,000 litres
Food: 2,500 crew meals; 15,950 cast meals

Choreography
------------

Cast: 2,000
Choreographers: Six, from Hong Kong and UK
Stage managers: 12 directing cast
Rehearsals: 150 hours
Costumes: 2,300 designed and manufactured in Hong Kong
Orchestras: Two, 70-piece orchestras
Choirs: 650 adults and children
Drummers: 100 for opening sequence

Media coverage
--------------

Video screens: Two JumboTrons (7mx5m) on site
Broadcaster: Radio Television Hong Kong in association with the British Broadcasting Corporation
TV Cameras: 15 positions
Audience: 120 million in 60 countries
Press corps: 1,000 reporters and photographers

End

11. Governor's Speech at Farewell Ceremony
**************************************

Following is the speech by the Governor, the Rt Hon Christopher Patten, at the Farewell Ceremony at Tamar today (Monday) :

For Hong Kong as a whole, today is cause for celebration not sorrow. But here and there, perhaps there will be a touch of personal sadness as is true of any departure, a point to which I shall return.

History is not just a matter of dates. What makes history is what comes before and what comes after the dates that we all remember. The story of this great city is about the years before this night, and the years of success that will surely follow it.

Of course, Hong Kong's story is not solely that of the century and a half of British responsibility, though it is the conclusion of that chapter that we mark tonight.

This chapter began with events that, from today's vantage point, at the end of the following century, none of us here would wish or seek to condone. But we might note that most of those who live in Hong Kong now do so because of events in our own century which would today have few defenders. All that is a reminder that sometimes we should remember the past the better to forget it.

What we celebrate this evening is the restless energy, the hard work, the audacity of the men and women who have written Hong Kong's success story. Mostly Chinese men and Chinese women. They were only ordinary in the sense that most of them came here with nothing. They are extraordinary in what they have achieved against the odds.

As British administration ends, we are, I believe, entitled to say that our own nation's contribution here was to provide the scaffolding that enabled the people of Hong Kong to ascend. The rule of law. Clean and light-handed government. The values of a free society. The beginnings of representative government and democratic accountability. This is a Chinese city, a very Chinese city, with British characteristics. No dependent territory has been left more prosperous, none with such a rich texture and fabric of civil society, professions, churches, newspapers, charities, civil servants of the highest probity and the most steadfast commitment to the public good.

I have no doubt that, with people here holding on to these values which they cherish, Hong Kong's star will continue to climb. Hong Kong's values are decent values. They are universal values. They are the values of the future in Asia as elsewhere, a future in which the happiest and the richest communities, and the most confident and the most stable too, will be those that best combine political liberty and economic freedom as we do here today.

All of us here tonight, and I am sure all my fellow countrymen and women watching these events from afar, wish the Chief Executive of the Special Administrative Region and his excellent team the very best of luck as they embark on their journey. C H Tung and his wife, Betty, will serve Hong Kong with dedication, strength and enthusiasm. Everyone here, and people outside Hong Kong as well, will be willing them to succeed in the challenging years that lie ahead.

I said that tonight's celebration will be tinged for some with sadness.

So it will be for my family and myself and for others who like us will soon depart from this shore. I am the 28th governor. The last governor. Like all the other governors and their families, my wife, my children and myself will take Hong Kong home in our hearts. You have been kind to us. You have made us welcome. It has been the greatest honour and privilege of my life to share your home for five years, and to have some responsibility for your future. Now Hong Kong people are to run Hong Kong. That is the promise. And that is the unshakeable destiny.

End

12. Celebration of Hong Kong's success
**********************************

Today's events celebrate the restless energy, the hard work, the audacity of the men and women who have written Hong Kong's success story, the Governor, the Rt Hon Christopher Patten, said this (Monday) evening.

Speaking at the Farewell Ceremony at Tamar, Mr Patten said these people were mostly Chinese men and women: "They were only ordinary in the sense that most of them came here with nothing. They are extraordinary in what they have achieved against the odds."

Mr Patten said that for Hong Kong the day's events were a cause for celebration, not sorrow, though perhaps there would be a touch of personal sadness as was true of any departure.

"The story of this great city is about the years before this night, and the years of success that will surely follow it," he said.

"As British administration ends, we are, I believe, entitled to say that our own nation's contribution here was to provide the scaffolding that enabled the people of Hong Kong to ascend.

"The rule of law. Clean and light-handed government. The values of a free society. The beginnings of representative government and democratic accountability.

"This is a Chinese city, a very Chinese city, with British characteristics. No dependent territory has been left more prosperous, none with such a rich texture and fabric of civil society, professions, churches, newspapers, charities, civil servants of the highest probity and the most steadfast commitment to the public good."

Mr Patten said he had no doubt that, with people here holding on to those values which they cherished, Hong Kong's star would continue to climb.

"Hong Kong's values are decent values. They are universal values. They are the values of the future in Asia as elsewhere, a future in which the happiest and the richest communities, and the most confident and the most stable too, will be those that best combine political liberty and economic freedom as we do here today.

"All of us here tonight, and I am sure all my fellow countrymen and women watching these events from afar, wish the Chief Executive of the Special Administrative Region and his excellent team the very best of luck as they embark on their journey. C. H. Tung and his wife, Betty, will serve Hong Kong with dedication, strength and enthusiasm. Everyone here, and people outside Hong Kong as well, will be willing them to succeed in the challenging years that lie ahead."

Observing that the celebration would be tinged for some with sadness, Mr Patten added:

"So it will be for my family and myself and for others who like us will soon depart from this shore. I am the 28th governor. The last governor. Like all the other governors and their families, my wife, my children and myself will take Hong Kong home in our hearts. You have been kind to us. You have made us welcome. It has been the greatest honour and privilege of my life to share your home for five years, and to have some responsibility for your future. Now Hong Kong people are to run Hong Kong. That is the promise. And that is the unshakeable destiny."

End

13. Farewell Ceremony marks end of British administration
*****************************************************

A dignified and at times dazzling and emotional farewell ceremony involving more than 2,000 Hong Kong cast members has been held to mark the end of British administration in Hong Kong.

The ceremony tonight (Monday) at East Tamar was held in the presence of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales who delivered a message from Her Majesty The Queen.

British Prime Minister the Rt Hon Tony Blair, the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, the Rt Hon Robin Cook, and Hong Kong's Governor, the Rt Hon Christopher Patten joined Prince Charles in the Royal Box to watch the ceremony.

During the ceremony, Mr Patten, the 28th and last Governor of Hong Kong, also delivered a speech.

The 75-minute ceremony included a Military Pageant involving Guards of Honour and Military Bands from the British Forces, including those from the Hong Kong Garrison, two 70-piece orchestras, 100 drummers and a massed choir of 650 adults and children.

The ceremony on the Hong Kong harbour waterfront was watched by some 10,000 people, including VIPs, guests, members of the public and 1,000 media staff. The ceremony was relayed to a world-wide television audience of about 120 million in 60 countries.

Her Majesty's Yacht Britannia formed part of the backdrop, complementing the main stage with its two, sweeping canopies and a set featuring Hong Kong landmarks.

A traditional dragon dance opened proceedings to ensure an auspicious beginning to a programme which included the splendour and discipline of a military pageant coupled with the energy and enthusiasm of Hong Kong children and performers evoking the "Spirit of Hong Kong" in a colourful display of dance and music.

The lowering of the Union and Hong Kong flags at sunset followed by the sounds of a lone piper playing and a rendition of 'Auld Lang Syne' were the most poignant and emotional moments of the event.

The ceremony was shown on two JumboTron video screens, especially flown in from Australia, to ensure the audience did not miss any detail of the performances.

Special guests included Welsh opera diva Dame Gwyneth Jones, renowned British actor Brian Blessed, local songstress and performer Frances Yip and Hong Kong's leading opera talent Warren Mok.

Also performing were the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, the Hong Kong Children's Choir and hundreds of other Hong Kong residents ranging from primary school students to pensioners performing Tai Chi.

The Military Pageant was co-ordinated by the British Garrison in Hong Kong and included Guards of Honour from all three services. Many of the 450 military personnel on parade were brought to Hong Kong especially for the Farewell Ceremony.

The Royal Navy was represented by HMS Chatham and HMS Illustrious; the Army by 1st Battalion The Black Watch; and the Royal Air Force by the Queen's Colour Squadron.

There was also a display by the Massed Bands and Pipes and Drums, which consisted of the Bands of the Scots Guards and the Royal Marines, the Highland Band and the Pipes and Drums of 1st Battalion The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) and 2nd Battalion Royal Gurkha Rifles.

-----------

End

14. Queen Elizabeth speaks of lasting ties with Hong Kong
*****************************************************

In a farewell message to the Hong Kong people, Britain's Queen Elizabeth emphasised the close ties between Hong Kong and Britain and said that these ties would endure.

Her Majesty said Hong Kong had undergone a dramatic transformation from a small coastal settlement into one of the most successful societies on earth.

Her message was delivered this (Monday) evening by her son, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, at the Farewell Ceremony at East Tamar.

The Queen said: "Britain is both proud and privileged to have been involved with this success story.

"Proud of the British values and institutions that have been the framework for Hong Kong's success. Proud of the rights and freedoms which Hong Kong people enjoy. Privileged to have been associated with the prodigiously talented and resourceful people of Hong Kong who have built upon that foundation.

"The British flag will be lowered and British administrative responsibility will end. But Britain is not saying good-bye to Hong Kong.

"More than three and half million Hong Kong resident are British nationals. Thousands of young Hong Kong men and women study in Britain every year. We share language and the English common law.

"And thousands of Britons, too, have made their homes in Hong Kong. The shared legacy of family and of friendship, trade and investment, culture and history runs strong and deep.

"Britain is part of Hong Kong's history and Hong Kong is part of Britain's history. We are also part of each other's future. We are confident that the ties between us will not only endure but will continue to develop.

"In a shrinking world, Hong Kong's role as Europe's gateway to Asia and Britain's role as Asia's gateway to Europe will reinforce the strong bond between our two societies."

The Queen said that for all these reasons she and her government would continue to take the closest interest in Hong Kong and its development.

She pointed out that the British Consulate-General in Hong Kong would be Britain's largest in the world. The Sino-British Joint Liaison Group would continue for another two-and-a-half years to discuss matters concerning the implementation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration which would remain in force for another 50 years.

The Queen continued: "Hong Kong now faces its transition to Chinese sovereignty in excellent condition - prosperous, stable and dynamic.

"Unprecedented though this moment in history may be, we have the utmost confidence in the abilities and resilience of the Hong Kong people.

"Britain learned long ago that Hong Kong people know best what is good for Hong Kong. We have no doubt that Hong Kong people can run Hong Kong as the Joint Declaration promises, and that the faithful implementation of the Joint Declaration is the key to Hong Kong's continued success."

Queen Elizabeth concluded: "The eyes of the world are on Hong Kong today. I wish you all a successful transition and a prosperous and peaceful future."

End

15. Queen's message for Farewell Ceremony
*************************************

Following is the message from the Queen for Farewell Ceremony today (Monday):

Five hours from now the Union Flag will be lowered and the flag of China will fly over Hong Kong. More than a century and a half of British administration will come to an end.

During that time Hong Kong has grown from a small coastal settlement into one of the leading cities and one of the greatest trading economies in the world. There have been times of sacrifice, suffering and courage. As Hong Kong has risen from the ashes of war a most dramatic transformation has taken place. Millions of destitute immigrants have been absorbed and Hong Kong has created one of the most successful societies on earth.

Britain is both proud and privileged to have been involved with this success story. Proud of the British values and institutions that have been a framework for Hong Kong's success. Proud of the rights and freedoms which Hong Kong people enjoy. Privileged to have been associated with the prodigiously talented and resourceful people of Hong Kong who have built upon that foundation.

The British flag will be lowered and British administrative responsibility will end. But Britain is not saying goodbye to Hong Kong. More than three and a half million Hong Kong residents are British nationals. Thousands of young Hong Kong men and women study in Britain every year. We share language and the English common law. And thousands of Britons, too have made their homes in Hong Kong. The shared legacy of family and of friendship, trade and investment, culture and history runs strong and deep.

Britain is part of Hong Kong's history and Hong Kong is part of Britain's history. We are also part of each other's future. We are confident that the ties between us will not only endure but will continue to develop. In a shrinking world Hong Kong's role as Europe's gateway to Asia and Britain's role as Asia's gateway to Europe will reinforce the bonds between our two societies.

For all these reasons my government and I will continue to take the closest interest in Hong Kong and in its development. The British Consulate-General, which will be inaugurated in a few hours time, will be our largest in the world. The Sino-British Joint Liaison Group will continue for another two and a half years to discuss matters concerning the implementation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration. That Joint Declaration itself remains in force for fifty years. For many years to come, the Hong Kong connection will command our attention.

Hong Kong now faces its transition to Chinese sovereignty in excellent condition - prosperous, stable and dynamic. Unprecedented though this moment in history may be, we have the utmost confidence in the abilities and resilience of the Hong Kong people. Britain learnt long ago that Hong Kong people know best what is good for Hong Kong. We have no doubt that Hong Kong people can run Hong Kong, as the Joint Declaration promises, and that faithful implementation of the Joint Declaration is the key to Hong Kong's continued success.

The eyes of the world are on Hong Kong today. I wish you all a successful transition and a prosperous and peaceful future.

End

16. Governor's telegram to London
*****************************

The following diplomatic telegram was despatched to London from Hong Kong at midnight June 30, 1997:

To the Secretary of State

From the Governor of Hong Kong

I have relinquished the administration of this Government. God Save the Queen.

Patten

End

17. Handover Operation Runs Smoothly
********************************

Hong Kong Police Planning and Implementation team member Woman Superintendent Winnie Chiu reported that the Police operations at the official Handover ceremonies have so far been running very smoothly.

In briefings held earlier to update the media on the Police operation, Miss Chiu said Hong Kong Police manpower deployment for the official handover ceremonies included 2,000 force members (consisting of venue security officers, search units, VIP Protection units, screening stations duties and traffic police).

"Close to 600 officers comprised the VIP Protection Unit, while about 40 police officers (one platoon) were being deployed at the two designated demonstration areas: the Great Eagle Centre and the Wan Chai Tower," she said.

Miss Chiu reported there were no casualties, no arrests and that nearly 260 demonstrators from nine groups protesting at the demonstration areas were orderly.

"There has been no violence, untoward incidents nor confrontations." Miss Chiu said.

"Of the nine groups, three have left the demonstration areas," she added.

Traffic on Hong Kong Island, Wan Chai and in the area near the handover venue was heavy but moving and did not prevent VIPs and guests from arriving at the sites.

Miss Chiu also reported that roads had been closed on both sides of the Harbour to facilitate the fireworks display, but so far no serious traffic problem was caused.

Responding to reports that Democratic Party ex-legislative members would use a ladder to scale the walls of the LegCo Building to stand on its balcony in order to protest the swearing in of the Provisional Legislature on July 1, Miss Chiu stressed that the Building was a private premises.

"If they are peaceful and there is no request from the management of the LegCo Building to stop demonstration then Police would not take action," she said.

She said that after midnight June 30, when China resumes sovereignty of the territory, the Hong Kong Police will continue to handle demonstrations according to existing legislation. "Our guidelines are very clear. Until there are changes to our laws - we will enforce the existing ones."

According to Miss Chiu, seven groups or individuals notified police that they would be using the designated demonstration areas to protest. So far, five of them had already staged their demonstration in the two designated areas.

End

18. Banquet guests toast the future of Hong Kong
********************************************

Foreign dignitaries, VIPS from around the globe and Hong Kong guests have toasted the future of Hong Kong at a Handover Banquet tonight (Monday) hosted by the British Government and in the presence of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.

About 4,000 guests attended the banquet in Hall 2 of the magnificent new extension to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Seated with HRH were Britain's Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs the Rt Hon Robin Cook, China's Vice Premier and Foreign Minister Mr Qian Qichen, British Prime Minister the Rt Hon Tony Blair and Mrs Cherie Blair, Hong Kong Governor the Rt Hon Christopher Patten and Mrs Levender Patten, and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive Mr Tung Chee Hwa and Mrs Betty Tung.

Guests sipped fine wines as they dined on a three-course Western-style banquet which included smoked Scottish salmon and lobster medallions, stuffed chicken breast with forest mushroom and red fruit pudding.

Ambient dinner music was provided by the Hong Kong Sinfonietta string orchestra and the Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts string quartet.

At 10.05 pm, guests rose as Mr Cook proposed a toast to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Second.

This was followed by a toast to The President of the People's Republic of China and then a toast to the Sovereigns and Heads of State of other nations attending the banquet.

Guests again raised their glasses one final time to toast the future of Hong Kong.

Mr Qian then reciprocated the toasts, with a final toast to the "long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong".

HRH left the banquet at 10.35 pm, followed by guests at the top tables.

The remaining guests then left Hall 2 in phases to proceed to the Grand Hall for the Handover Ceremony.

Handover Banquet Menu :

Smoked Scottish salmon and lobster medallions served with crispy lettuce on a fillo pastry shell and a Champagne dill dressing.

Stuffed chicken breast with forest mushroom with a creamy herb sauce with truffle risotto and baby vegetables.

Red fruit pudding with raspberry sauce.

Coffee and tea.

The Vegetarian Menu was:

Vegetable terrine with a basil and tarragon mayonnaise.

Tri-colour cannelloni filled with spinach and forest mushroom served with tomato sabayon.

Red fruit pudding with raspberry sauce.

Coffee and tea.

End