HONG Kong businessmen are urging Beijing and London to resume talks on election reforms before the rift affects economic confidence.
''We are very frustrated with the situation,'' said Henry Tang Ying-yen, an elected legislator and managing director of Hong Kong-based garment maker Peninsula Knitters.
''The political instability will discourage foreign investment here and hit our economic prospects.
''In the run-up to 1997, many issues have to be settled between the two governments. If they don't take a co-operative position, more problems will come up.
''But little can be done by us. What we can say to them is: 'Please resume the talks and reach an agreement'.'' ''Healthy economic growth is important to us, to China and Britain.'' Most Hong Kong businessmen have said publicly the political differences between Beijing and London would have a limited impact on the economy.
However, privately, they express fears over the worsening relationship.
''As the run-up proceeds, I don't think anyone, including Beijing and London, believes they can administer Hong Kong on the basis of their accords alone,'' Mr Tang said.
