ONFIDENPLAL
Note also that Basic Law is quite clear (Article 4) that
socialist system and policies will not be practised in SAR and that Hong Kong will retain its capitalist system and lifestyle for 50
years. These provisions displace corresponding points of Chinese
constitution so far as its application to the SAR is concerned.
PROVISIONS ON THE ECONOMY
Have noted widespread comment that certain provisions on
economy (balanced budget, low tax) seem inconsistent with autonomy
of SAR Government in economic policy. See considerable force in
these arguments.
EXECUTIVE NOT SUFFICIENTLY ACCOUNTABLE TO LEGISLATURE?
Draft Basic Law makes specific provision:
Article 43 : The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong
SAR shall be accountable to the Central People's
Government and the Hong Kong SAR in accordance with the
provisions of this Law".
Article 64 : The executive authorities of the Hong Kong
SAR must abide by the law and shall be accountable to the
Legislative Council of the Hong Kong SAR.
The key requirement for Hong Kong is for a system which
provides for both checks and balance, as well as co-operation
between the executive and the legislature. Not appropriate simply to import system practised elsewhere, founded on a different
political tradition.
Believe the future arrangements for SAR should evolve from present system, which has worked well and is suited to Hong Kong's
unique circumstances.
ELIGIBILITY OF HONG KONG PEOPLE WITH FOREIGN PASSPORTS FOR CERTAIN
POLITICAL AND CIVIL SERVICE POSTS?
- I am aware of concerns expressed about this. It is a complex question which depends on interpretation of Chinese nationality law.
Aware from recent comments by Chinese officials that they are
fully seized of the problem. Sure they will be studying it very
carefully with a view to meeting the concerns felt by Hong Kong
people.
CONFIDENTIAL