The Status Of English In Hong Kong Before And After 1997

This thesis explores the status of English and in Hong Kong before and after the change of sovereignty. It reviews language policy in Hong Kong during the colonial period and after 1997. In the thesis, the author examines multilingualism in Hong Kong society and the changing role of English, Cantonese and Putonghua in politics, professions, commerce and education from the perspective of sociolinguistics. The thesis also examines the current attitude of Hong Kong residents towards the three codes. By describing the political and social factors that influence language status, the author maintains that the prestigious status of English in Hong Kong is being gradually replaced by Chinese while English is retaining its importance in international business.