§ 25. Mr. A. Royleasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what contribution interested Governments can make towards the cost of the infrastructure needed to support new immigrants and excess population in Hong Kong, in view of the recent statement in regard to such contributions and the Hong Kong Gov- 222 ernment's achievement in building roads, housing, hospitals and clinics over the past seven years without outside assistance.
§ Mr. SandysAs indicated in the statement to which my hon. Friend refers, the Government of Hong Kong have invited friendly and interested Governments to give financial assistance for the provision of a wide range of public services.
The United States Government have recently given $250,000 for a new workshop at the Hong Kong Technical College. They have also offered to admit some 5,000 Chinese families into the United States. Canada has offered to admit 100 Chinese families and to provide considerable quantities of foodstuffs.
§ Mr. RoyleIn view of the Hong Kong Government's fine achievements, will my right hon. Friend press Hong Kong's claims for special treatment in the current negotiations with the E.E.C. countries as a practical and effective gesture of international assistance?
§ Mr. SandysIn these negotiations we are watching very closely the special interests of Hong Kong.