To ask the Prime Minister what was the purpose of his meeting in Hong Kong with Mr. Li Ka Shing, chairman of Cheung Kong; what topics were discussed; what United Kingdom Government officials were present; and if he will make a statement.

I have been asked to reply.My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister's normal practice is and will continue to be neither to confirm nor deny whether meetings with private individuals have taken place, even in those cases where no such meeting has occurred.