C c)
D d)
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Note 2: The Executive
This considers the composition, powers and functions of a future
"Executive Council", constituted on very much the same lines as
the present ExCo;
Note 3: The Legislature
This begins by considering the composition of the future legislature. It suggests that there might be a component
elected by functional constituencies, a component elected
(directly or indirectly) by geographical constituencies and a
component elected by the "grand electoral college". The latter
device (as we have indicated in earlier papers for the Chinese)
could accommodate both the present appointed members and also
officials. The remainder of the paper covers terms of office,
the presidency of the legislature, and its powers and
functions.
11. The only major point on which we still have some differences
with ExCo concerns the terms of office of the Chief Executive and
the Legislature. ExCo favour a fixed term of office for the
legislature and a power of dissolution, in the hands of the Chief
Executive. These are incompatible concepts. We have suggested that
the legislature should have only a maximum term; that the Chief
Executive should retain the power of dissolution; but that as a
balance the Chief Executive should be required to seek re-election
if the legislature were dissolved. In the limited time available we
have not been able to resolve the difference, which is reflected in
the alternatives set out in paras 23 and 24 of Paper I. It would be
desirable to simplify this passage, if we can, before the paper goes
to the Chinese: we have urged ExCo to think this point through more
clearly.
12. I apologise for the speed with which we are forced to conduct
this exercise. In the circumstances Lord Glenarthur has agreed that
the papers should be submitted directly to the Secretary of State,
with a side copy for himself.
Conten
CO Hum
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/ I am