CONFIDENTIA
when considering the exercise of the Royal Prerogative; (b) the present arrangement consisted of a suspension of the law by admin- istrative action and (c) although it was not possible to have a popularly elected legislature in Hong Kong, as in other Dependent Territories where the death penalty existed, it was quite clear where Hong Kong's public opinion stood on this issue. These considerations would have to be borne in mind if ever our present policy was reviewed.
Hong Kong and Indian Ocean Department
22 December 1975
Distribution
FS
PS/Hr Ennals
F/Lord Goronwy-Roberts
Mr Larmour
Mr Cortazzi
Mr Male
Mr Stanley
Mr Kidd, KGO
Mr O'Keeffe
Mr Bentley, FED
OLA
OPA
Political Adviser, Hong Kong
Chancery, Feking
A
COMIJENILAL
Page
1