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3.
Sir Murray thought such appointments would not give rise to an Independence movement. He also thought their introduction would be acceptable to the Chinese Government, so long as it was carefully presented and the Chinese were informed at an early stage. He appreciated that his proposals might not go far enough to satisfy all sectors of UK Parliamentary opinion: presentation would again be very important, as well as the character of the appointments. 4.
The Governor and HMG would retain control over legislation. However, Unofficial Ministers would have some limited power to do things which might offend UK public or parliamentary opinion. The Governor's relationship with Unofficial Ministers would necessarily be different from his relationship with Officials: the former would be very conscious of the pressures of local public opinion and would resign rather than push through unpopular policies. On the other hand, UMELCO members were already used to popular pressures and had shown themselves to be generally level-headed.
5.
Lord Goronwy-Roberts agreed that Sir Murray's proposals were acceptable in principle. They would need further elaboration, and this could be discussed between officials. In particular, the constitutional balance, which would leave the ultimate powers of control in the hands of the Governor and HMG, must be maintained. He also agreed on the importance of presentation: the Chinese should be informed (but not consulted) about what was being done; and its significance for UK public and parliamentary opinion should be explained to them.
6.
Sir Murray MacLehose emphasised that he had not yet discussed his proposals in Hong Kong. Also, he was not sure how quickly the proposals could be implemented. He had therefore proposed new two-year ExCo and LegCo appointments on the existing basis to fill vacancies from the end of June. These would not prejudice the scope for manoeuvre.
7.
Lord Goronwy-Roberts agreed that the Governor should proceed with the appointments which he had already proposed.
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/Social questions