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70A
5.
The British side has given further consideration to a number
of longer-term issues connected with the overall structure of
Government and with the need for convergence with the post-1997
structure to be prescribed in the Basic Law. It would now like to
share its thoughts with the Chinese side.
6.
The attached notes consider the role which might be played in
the Government of the future Hong Kong SAR by the three main institutions of government, namely:
The Chief Executive
The Executive
The Legislature
(Note 1)
(Note 2)
(Note 3)
7.
Note 1 follows on from earlier consideration (in Paper II of
May 1986) of the method of selection of the Chief Executive and his
powers and functions.
8.
Note 2 examines, in greater detail than hitherto, the role
and composition of a future equivalent of the present executive
council, and the relationship between the executive and the
legislature.
9.
Note 3 follows on from earlier consideration (in Paper II of
May 1986 and Note 2 of October 1986) of the composition and
functions of the legislature.
10. Notes 2 and 3 both touch on the importance of maintaining a
close and co-operative relationship between the executive and the
legislature in the interests of ensuring that government business
continues to be conducted efficiently. They follow on from earlier
consideration of this point in Note 1 of the papers handed over in
December 1986.
11.
In all three notes reference is made to the possible role of
a broadly-based "Grand Electoral College" (GEC). Suggestions for such a body have emerged in the context of the drafting of the Basic
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