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against direct elections in a balanced way. Several Members
referred to the efforts of the NCNA representatives in Hong
Kong
to mobilize opinion amongst the "silent majority"
against introducing direct elections.
Para. 39
It was agreed that the words "principles" should
be replaced by the words "advantages and disadvantages".
It was felt that (b) might be deleted as the point
about timing is covered in the opening sentence of the
paragraph.
Para. 40
The final sentence is deleted.
Para. 41
The first sentence will be amended to remove the
word "democratic" and to eliminate the suggestion that direct
elections "ensure" that the views of the people are fairly
represented.
The point was made that this paragraph focusses on
the role direct elections can play in making government more
representative; and that the aspects of making the
administration more accountable to the people and of "open
government" were equally important.
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