5
24.
The appointed me-bers of the Executive and Legislative Councils
are individually capable, responsible and even dedicated to their duties.
However, since they are all appointed by the Governor as individuals, the
Executive and Legislative Councils can only be regarded as advisory bodies
to the Colonial Government. As such, these two Councils, as they are
presently constituted, do not sufficiently represent the aspirations and
needs of the people of Hong Kong, particularly our young people, as required
in this age of space exploration and dynamic change.
25.
Whilst other reforms such as an Ombudsman system and expansion
of the scope of the Urban Council are important, they are of secondary
importance when compared to the overriding need to have elected representa-
tion in the Legislative Council, which is responsible for the laws which
govern the lives of Hong Kong people, the taxes which are collected, and
the manner in which such taxes are used to lift up the living standa rds
and quality of life of the people.
26.
If our young people are to have unity of purpose and dedication
to Hong Kong, they must acquire a sense of identity and belonging to Hong
Kong.
A sense of identity in practical terms, means greater participation
in the government, in Legislative and Executive Councils, in an expanded
Urban Council, and in community affairs at the district level. Our existing
colonial-type political institutions will have to be modernised in keeping
with the pace of economic and social change of Hong Kong in the 1970's.
The true wealth of a community lies in its men, women and young
people the better the quality, the richer the community. This cells for
a higher educational standard and a Hong Kong Identity through more
participation in Hong Kong affairs by Hong Kong people, especially within
the Legislative Council.
27.
28.
Mr. Chairman, I support the Motion and endorse the Statement of
Aims for 1970.