People's communities formed around the housing problem
came to the forefront in the 70s. In fact, these associations do sot
have any political power nor any bargaining power. They are not repre sunted in the government to voice their rights, and they cannet strike - and stop any operation or production. They can only petition or demono strate to express their concern and their problems in order to gain
support and sympathy.
During this period, petitions and demonstrations increased rapidly and abundantly. The effect was that the people won certain de mand. as a result of arousing harsh criticisms directed at the govern- meat, though once in a whila, people were beaterup and arrested. In 1979 the Yaumatei boatpeople '| struggle led to a new era when the government realized that more people were organized, and a deprived group can gain
wide range of support. The government concluded that she can bear ne longer, she decided to bring the people's weapon of struggle under government control, thus the Publis Order Ordinance was reaffirmed and
further legitimized.
F
A
!:
Further still, the government realised that with the improvement of relationships among the governments of China, Britain, and Hong Kong. patriotism and racisa would no longer be the expression of the people's discontent. People's demands now gears more towards participation in local administration. They demand participation in the planning and decision-making of the government administration which plans and decides their lives.
4. CONSULTATION SYSTEM
We (the Hong Kong Government) proceed by consensus
rather than debate for this is the only course oper
to a government required to continue indefinitely in pover.... Çeascasus implies consultation, negotiation
aod cumpremloc on a scale that would be unacceptable
a party retuzasa to power by an election.
to
+
( Spuech of Secretary for Eome Affaire and Information, November 24, 1975. )
Hong Kong Goverment has always claimed that she rules by consultation and consensus. Indsed, the Govurantat has established great numbers of offices
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