C.
TABAEA
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REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT
1. Further changes in 1991?
The decision to introduce 10 directly elected seats into the
Legislative Council in 1991 is an important step forward. No
decisions have yet been taken about possible further changes in
1991.
2.
Further changes after 1991?
We certainly do not rule out further changes before 1997,
including the possibility of additional directly elected seats after
1991. But 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 the Basic Law, which will be promulgated in 1990. We
must of course keep in mind the need to ensure continuity and
a smooth transition in 1997.
3.
Broken promises by HMG?
We
There is absolutely no truth in this. The 1984 White Paper made
no commitment to introduce direct elections in 1988.
simply undertook to review the position in 1987; and that
undertaking was carried out in full.
4.
China has influenced the decisions in the White Paper
The decisions in the White Paper were taken by HMG in
consultation with the Hong Kong Government. The key factors in the decisions were the views expressed by the people of Hong Kong
in the course of the review of representative government.
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