Top achievers earn honours from college

The Chinese University of Hong Kong has honoured three people who have reached great heights in their chosen fields.

At the university's congregation, Sir Michael Atiyah, a famous mathematician and former president of Britain's Royal Society, was made a Doctor of Science.

Dr Lee Hon-chiu, chairman and managing director of Hysan Development Company, and Rosanna Wong Yick-ming, Convenor of the Executive Council, received law doctorates.

Dr Lee is a leading entrepreneur and supporter of higher education development.

Ms Wong is an eminent social administrator, and has held top posts in housing, youth services and welfare.

Sir Michael said close links with the community and the international academic world were important and he hoped strong ties between Britain and Hong Kong would continue after the handover.

'Hong Kong is the door to China. Financial and commercial expertise enters via this route, to the mutual benefit of all concerned. This has been happening for many years and there may well be increased opportunities after July 1997,' he said.

'But other things besides money and goods can flow through Hong Kong. Ideas are just as important and I can foresee an exciting role in the future for the universities of Hong Kong interacting with those in the rest of China. I know good relations already exist at the academic level and I hope the political changes of the future will enhance them,' he added.