1990s in Hong Kong

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This article is part of the History of Hong Kong series
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The 1990s in Hong Kong started with the future of Hong Kong decided in the Sino-British Joint Declaration. Under this background, Hong Kong made its way in a series of changes to prepare for the handover from Britain to China.

In 1997, Hong Kong is handed over to Chinese rule. This marked the end of colonial Hong Kong.

However, soon afterwards, the Asian financial crisis broke out and the economy of Hong Kong fell from its peak. The 1990s in Hong Kong ended in lots of facade, with disagreements over the Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa growing constantly.

Contents 1 Before the handover 1.1 Migration problems 2 The handover 3 After the handover

Before the handover

Various mediating measures are done between 1990 to 1997 to prepare for the handover. Chris Patten was sent from Britain to replace Wilson, the previous governor, and Patten knew clearly from the beginning of his rule that his work is to ensure the smooth transition between UK and PRC rule.

Migration problems

Many great families in Hong Kong, such as the Shaw family, left Hong Kong in fear of any bad effect to the economy of Hong Kong after transition to communist PRC rule. Following this, many other Hongkongers left Hong Kong and headed for Britain with their UK BNO passport. As a result, the colonial government banned the Hong Kong BNOs from having the right of abode in Britain homeland but left 60,000 abode-in-Britain quotas for various Hong Kong businessmen to apply for.

The handover

Main article: Transfer of the sovereignty of Hong Kong

At midnight on July 1, 1997, in the handover ceremony was held at the new wing of the Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Centre, Wan Chai, the Flag of United Kingdom was lowered and the flags of Hong Kong and China were flown. This event marked the transfer of sovereignty of Hong Kong from British colonial rule to Chinese rule.

Guests participated in the handover ceremony included HRH Prince Charles, Chairman of the People's Republic of China Jiang Zemin, the last Hong Kong governor Chris Patten, and Tung Chee-hwa, the first Chief Executive of Hong Kong SAR.

After the handover, Hong Kong was officially returned to China, with the new post of chief executive, first incumbent by Tung Chee Hwa, replacing and succeeding the former post of governor, last incumbent by Chris Patten.

After the handover

TBA