§ Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what specific judicial procedures will be used after July 1997 to resolve any disputes between the United Kingdom and the People's Republic of China over the implementation or interpretation of the joint agreement on the future of Hong Kong; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaudeThe Sino-British joint declaration is an internationally binding agreement registered by both Governments with the United Nations. The primary means for discussing the implementation of the joint declaration, and for solving differences, is the Joint Liaison Group which will continue in being until the year 2000. The joint declaration stipulates that matters on which there is disagreement in the Joint Liaison Group shall be referred to the two Governments for solution through consultations. Should disputes nevertheless arise between the Governments, it would be open to the British Government of the day to make use of any channels, or judicial procedures, which might be available and appropriate in the circumstances.