direct elections. I enclose a copy of the Hansard record
of my opening statement in the debate which sets out the
government's views on Hong Kong issues, and in particular
the development of representative government in Hong
Kong, in some detail.
Our intention to proceed with the development of
representative government in Hong Kong remains unchanged.
We think that it is right to do this prudently, with full
regard to Hong Kong's circumstances and the wishes of the
community as a whole. This process should not be limited
to one particular model or form. Hong Kong must develop
its own system of government which is suited to its
circumstances and requirements, and which meets the
wishes of its people.
In considering this issue the British and Hong Kong
Governments have taken care to consult the people of Hong
Kong at every stage. This was the purpose of the review
which took place in 1984. It was also the purpose of the
current review. This carries out in full the commitments
made in the 1984 White Paper, which recorded the state of
public opinion in Hong Kong in 1984 on the subject of
direct elections to the Legislative Council, and stated
that the issue would be further considered in a review to
take place in 1987.
The Survey Office report provided a full and
objective account of the over 130,000 submissions it
received.
The work of the Survey Office was overseen by
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