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Control of Publications Consolidation Ordinance which had been part
of Hong Kong laws for over 30 years.
6.
Major liberalisation compared with previous position. In
deciding upon repeal, Hong Kong Government felt that in such a small
and densely populated place, necessary to retain power in 1951
Ordinance to act against anyone publishing false news which might
threaten public order. To make clear that this measure was aimed at
any threat to public order and not aimed at freedom of press,
measure was transferred from Control of Publications Consolidation
Ordinance to Public Order Ordinance. In no sense a new measure.
[Introduced in response to Chinese pressure]
7.
Can categorically assure you that this was not so. No such
pressure, or even discussion with Chinese. Under Joint Declaration
HMG are fully responsible for Hong Kong's administration up to 1
July 1997. We intend to maintain and exercise that responsibility.
[Debate on 11 March. LegCo not representative: appointed members must be replaced by people who represent popular views, chosen by
direct elections etc).
8.
Debate on 11 March was a very full one (8 hours), reflecting
all shades of Hong Kong views on this issue. LegCo is manifestly
capable of speaking out robustly and vigorously. In any event, Hong
Kong people will have full opportunity to express their own views on
future constitutional developments in response to current Green
Paper on Representative Government.
[Inadequate consultation]
9.
Substance of measure on Hong Kong statute book since 1951. Two bills were gazetted 19 December. Extensively discussed between
Hong Kong Government and Office of Members of Executive and
Legislative Councils (OMELCO). Debate deferred twice at OMELCO's
request. Both bills passed by large LegCo majority.
Hard to argue
consultation inadequate.
[Debate should have been deferred because of great public concern]
Hong Kong Government no doubt felt public interest best served by full debate in LegCo. OMELCO clearly agreed. Motion to
10.
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