§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on his recent visit to China.
§ Mr. RentonFrom 12 to 18 October my right hon. and learned Friend accompanied the Queen on the first state visit to China by a ruling British monarch. It was a great success, with a magnificent welcome from the Chinese leadership and people. As Her Majesty made clear, the visit has set the seal on the warm friendship between our two countries and will provide a foundation for the building of even closer contacts.
1009WMy right hon. and learned Friend also had useful discussions with Chinese leaders on bilateral and international issues of mutual interest.
§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if the question of the proposed Daya bay nuclear plant was discussed at his recent visit to China; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RentonDuring his recent visit to China my right hon. and learned Friend discussed the proposed nuclear power plant at Daya bay with senior Chinese officials. They assured him that the Chinese Government are fully alive to the concerns of the Hong Kong people about safety aspects of the project. We shall remain in touch with the Chinese authorities on the subject, on our own behalf and on behalf of Hong Kong.