An overview of all aspects of Hong Kong English As a former British colony, Hong Kong used English as the language of government, the law, and education in the early days of colonial rule. Since the Handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997, it is no longer used as the primary language of government. However, the status of English has survived the decline of colonial rule, as English has become an international language which is indispensable for a service-oriented economy such as present-day Hong Kong. Its use is still widespread in the law, and English is the medium of instruction in at least a quarter of secondary schools. Outside the realm of education, English is important as a means of communication with the outside world in the fields of banking and finance, business, and in the tourism and hospitality industry. English is therefore integrated into Hong Kong life in various ways and this has resulted in a thriving and developing variety of English. This book describes English in Hong Kong as a linguistic phenomenon from the point of view of language structure, but also takes into account historical, socio-cultural and socio-political development. Key Features Discusses Hong Kong English as a thriving and evolving variety Explores Hong Kong English as a linguistic phenomenon Charts historical, socio-cultural and socio-political developments.