CONFIDENTIAL
(j)
3.
undertaken to do all we can to ensure that it is.
Constitutional development: There was some criticism of EXCO
by MPs for their gradualist approach to democratic reform. Other Ms however recognised the advantages of a step-by-step
approach. EXCO may need reassurance that we are ready to take into account the need for caution dictated by Hong Kong's
circumstances and favoured by Hong Kong opinion.
EXCO will also wish to discuss the draft Hong Kong bill, which
will have been given a "first reading" at a meeting on 18 December.
Points to make and separate background are provided.
4.
Personality notes on EXCO members are at Annex B to Brief No 1
(steering brief).
Hong Kong Department
14 December 1984
CONFIDENTIAL