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One of the key elements in this is the
development of our system of representative
government. We have always in Hong Kong worked an
elaborate system of public consultation. At the same
time we have been building steadily, at both local
and central level, a system of representative
government. Five years ago our Legislative Council
was entirely appointed. Now more than half the non
civil servant members are elected by what we call
functional groups, District Boards, teachers,
lawyers, chambers of commerce, trade unionists and so
on. In 1991 we take a further step by having some
members directly elected and by 1997 at the latest
all members will be elected by one means or another.
other
Not surprisingly there is much heated debate on
how fast the process should go. As a government we
have sought to ensure that the pace and direction of
our reforms reflect the wishes of the community as a
whole. In 1987, extensive consultation showed a
strong desire for more representative government. also showed that most people favoured a prudent, step
by step approach. As a government we made our plans
accordingly. We were in the process roundly
criticised by those who wanted to move faster.
It