Conclusion.
52. A constitution on these lines could be built onto existing institutions in the time available and does not require extreme changes. It meets the requirements of the Joint Declaration and provides a careful balance of interests. In the Legislative Council two thirds of the members are elected and many will no doubt be newcomers to positions of political power. Under these circumstances a leavening of experience and continuity needs to be introduced by special means. The presence of the Government Advisers on the Council achieves this without adding to the process of making legislation, the complications that would be introduced with a second chamber of the legislature.
53. The structure enables all important areas of internal administration to be undertaken in a highly autonomous manner under the control of an Executive Council chaired by the Chief Minister who is an Elected Member of Legislative Council.
54. The powers now exercised by the Governor are split between the Governor and the Chief Minister. The Governor retains control over important areas of administration relating to social stability and acts as an agent of the Central People's Government in foreign and defence affairs. The Chief Minister and his Executive Council, whose authority derives from an electoral process, are in charge of internal administration in other areas. The Security Committee acts as a link in the important area of internal security.
55. These proposals take as a starting point the present structure of the Hong Kong Government. This structure is modified to take account of the principles embodied in the Joint Declaration in such a way as to maintain the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.
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