SUPAAL
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Defensive notes on other Hong Kong issues
REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT
FURTHER CHANGES IN 1991?
Decision on introduction of 10 directly elected seats in 1991 is important step forward.
[If pressed] no decisions have yet been taken about possible
further changes in 1991.
FURTHER CHANGES AFTER 1991?
Certainly do not rule out further changes before 1997, including
possibility of additional directly elected seats after 1991.
This will be assessed in the light of Hong Kong's circumstances
and experience of the new arrangements in 1991, and in the light of
Basic Law, which will be promulgated in 1990.
Must of course keep in mind need to ensure continuity and smooth
transfer in 1997.
WHITE PAPER FALLS SHORT OF PEOPLE'S ASIPRATIONS: THIS WILL UNDERMINE
CONFIDENCE?
Essential that changes introduced in Hong Kong should command
widest consensus of local support and offer best prospect of continuity after 1997. That is what White Paper seeks to achieve.
Believe this can only help to strengthen confidence.
DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1991 WILL PROVIDE INSUFFICIENT TIME FOR
DEMOCRACY TO TAKE ROOT
Best guarantee of a well rooted democratic tradition in Hong
Kong is that changes should be steady and gradual.
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Tradition of representative government is well established in
Hong Kong.
Large part of membership of Municipal Councils and District
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