SECRET
6.
The constitutional documents describe the wide range of powers of HMG and it is not easy for those outside Hong Kong (or indeed
(or indeed even inside Hong Kong) to appreciate that in fact having for are notable for not many of
the been
the regard
of these powers
exercised.
In
constitution
describes
to
authoritarian an
Governor,
regime
of
the
classic colonial pattern. The longstanding practice of government by wide consultation, and within the legislative process itself of consultation with the Unofficials (which avoids open conflict), is not reflected in the documents. it is necessary to Το understand why Hong Kong works,
unwritten but well understand these constitutionally established practices. The government of Hong Kong has had
a
to convince those over whom it exercised authority that it was doing so in the best interests of the community as whole. If it had not been able to do so, Hong Kong would not have developed as successfully as it has.
Executive Council
7.
The
Executive Council
consists
members
the
Chief
Secretary,
the
of four
Commander
ex-officio
British
-
Forces, the Financial Secretary and the Attorney General and an unspecified number of appointed members (at present Official) who are appointed by the
8
Unofficial
and 2
under the authority of
the
Queen.
Appointed
is a clear
who
Governor members hold office for fixed periods. There Unofficial majority. The Council advises the Governor, is in general required by the Royal Instructions to consult
on on important matters of policy, but not for example on
to decide General the right of the Attorney
matters of policy prosecutions.
it
on Council's advice The
on
involving the expenditure of public funds is subject to the approval of the necessary funds by the Finance Committee of The Council advises upon all the Legislative Council.
introduced into the
reponsible
making
principal legislation before
Legislative
is it
Council, and
it is
for
subsidiary legislation under a number of ordinances.
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