CONFIDENTIAL
Would not have been right to attempt to lay down details 13 years in advance. Must allow for development between now and 1997. The agreement however states there will be an elected legislature, an executive accountable to the legislature, and a Chief Executive.
36. WHY WILL THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE SAR NOT NECESSARILY BE
ELECTED IF THE LEGISLATURE WILL?
The outcome of negotiation was provision that options would be left
open. Hard to predict rate of change over next 13 years But present evolution towards more representative procedures of selection will certainly continue towards 1997, in accordance with wishes of Hong
Kong people.
37. THE AGREEMENT SAYS THE GOVERNMENT OF THE SAR WILL BE MADE UP
LOCAL INHABITANTS. WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF LOCAL INHABITANTS?
No definition in agreement. Will no doubt be defined by Basic Law.
38.
WHAT IS THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE AGREEMENT AND THE FREEN
PAPER ON CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT?
The Green Paper deals with Hong Kong before 1997.
Britain will
remain responsible for administration of Hong Kong up to 1 July
1997.
SECTION II: THE LAWS
39.
SURELY THE PROVISION THAT THE LAWS HAVE TO BE IN ACCORDANCE
WITH THE BASIC LAW WILL ENABLE THE CHINESE TO CHANGE ANY LAW THEY
WANT?
The clear intention of the agreement is to provide maximum
continuity between the laws which apply in Hong Kong and those of
the SAR.
40. WILL CHINESE LAWS APPLY IN HONG KONG AFTER 1997?
In general Chinese laws will not apply.
SECTION III: JUDICIAL SYSTEM
41.
WHERE WILL THE COURT OF FINAL APPEAL BE?
The Court of final appeal will be in the SAR.
CONFIDENTIAL
Appeals will not