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The considerations given into introducing this bill at this point in time are as follows:-
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
After 1997 any inherent powers and privileges derived from the present status of the Legislative Council as a colonial legislature would cease to have effect in Hong Kong.
The powers and privileges derived from case laws have not really been brought out in court rulings and it is desirable that there should be a clear understanding of what right the legislature has;
We are already in the transitional period, and as we move towards representative government and move away from the tradition of consensus politics, it will assist the functioning of the Legislative Council if the powers and privileges, that the legislature and its members can enjoy, are clearly understood; and
In the Green Paper on Future Development of Representative Government in Hong Kong, it was envisaged that the Legislature Council in future may elect its own president who will lack the other proofs of authority which the Governor has. The President must have clear legal
sanction to which to point for his conduct of the business of the legislature; and
With the developing public role of the Council's Committee following on the opening up of the hearing of the Finance Committee and budget estimates; and the Public Accounts Committee, and now the setting up of the Select Committee on commercial crimes, it is timely that the position regarding the calling of witnesses and the hearing of evidence should be codified.
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