14.
SECRET
Secretary of State.
Once this is settled I will recommend an amendment of Article 13 of the Royal Instructions by means of an Order in Council.
24.
I have an open mind about what the ultimate size of the Legislative Council should be, but I think an increase of the size proposed above is about all that could be absorbed for the time being, without running a serious risk of delay or disruption of government business.
25.
To conclude this passage I should emphasise my concern to preserve the Legislative Council itself and the organisation of the "Unofficial Members of Executive and Legislative Council" (UMELCO) as bodies which work together, constructively, as a team, and as part of Government. This has been proved perfectly consistent with debate in and outside the Chamber and the expression of opposition in it. In addition to these legislative and representative functions members have wide duties as (in effect) ombudsmen, watchdogs, and points of contact for groups and individual members of the public, and as co- operators with the Government in the initiation of policy and of legislation. They have access to confidential files and work in confidence. They have their own staff and offices. All this work requires much organisation by the senior members and teamwork by the rest, and the expansion and change of character of the Council that will now take place will put a heavy burden on the senior members in a Council which is already somewhat inexperienced. Only 4 have more than 4 years membership and 7 have less than 3, and this in itself reflects the substantial injection of new blood made in the last few years to increase the professional element and make the Council more lively. Time and also continual personal guidance will therefore be essential if the new Council is to give the results I hope for.
Introduction of a Member System
26.
I also believe we should work for a transfer of overt responsibility into the hands of