CONFIDENTIAL
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Public Perception of the Governor
Withdrawing from Legislative Council
21.
It has for a long time been realised that a good
deal of public education would be necessary before the
Governor could withdraw from Legislative Council, because
it is the function in which the Governor is most regularly
becomes
seen in circumstances of formality and power. However as
the role of the future Chief Executive
increasingly clear, and is revealed in the draft Basic
Law, it should be easier to make the change.
Timing
22.
If an early change is indicated, the choice for
timing the change lies between say 6-9 months before the
present Governor leaves Hong Kong, or say 6-9 months after
his successor arrives, in order to ensure a smooth
introduction and to avoid any linking of the change with
the departure or arrival of a Governor.
Effect on Official Members
23.
There have been suggestions that the withdrawal
CONFIDENTIAL