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ROBABS
REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT
Defensive points
CONFIDENTIAL
A (HMG's views on Survey Report)
But
Have not reached a view. Report still being considered. share overall impression of findings on direct election as given by Governor in his press conference on 24 November:
a) Many in community do not have a view or have not put one
forward.
b)
Most of those who do take an interest believe there should be some element of direct elections before 1997.
c)
On question of introduction of direct elections in 1988 community is sharply divided.
ca
C
D
Have also noted clear division of views, including on question of direct elections, in LegCo debate on 18 November.
(HMG no longer committed to development of representative
government)
-
Not so.
HMG recognise that appropriate development of representative government is right and necessary if the aspirations of the Hong Kong people are to be met. Hong Kong Government conducted extensive survey to find out views of people of Hong Kong. Steps now being taken to draw up proposals in the light of that
review.
HMG/Hong Kong Government going back on commitments made in 1984 White Paper)
-
Quite untrue.
White Paper undertook to review progress in development of representative government in 1987, and to give further consideration to direct elections in review.
being done.
That is now
(1984 White Paper committed you to introduction of direct elections
in 1988)
-
No.
White Paper noted public response at that time suggested a cautious approach with a gradual start by introducing very small
CONFIDENTIAL