HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL -1 March 1990
香港立法局
————一九九○年三月一日
Limitations on nationality
39
Sir, the Basic Law has a new article, replacing the original Article 66. This limits members of the legislature who have the right of abode in foreign countries to 20%. To be realistic about it, many professionals and business people are likely to possess foreign passports and/or right of abode elsewhere by 1997 as an insurance policy. Too many restrictions on eligibility for public office, including membership to this Council, will surely be undesirable. That will simply deter businessmen and professionals from participating in politics.
Conclusion
Sir, I do not oppose direct elections. But I strongly support the principle of a balanced legislature, in particular in those areas which contribute to our commercial success. I urge greater realization of the fact that the development of direct elections here is only a means to an end. I have supported the 4:4:2 model as the best pace. That is still my view.
I know that some people see gradual, but nevertheless in Hong Kong's context, dynamic, changes with disapproval. They refer to it as "toothpaste democracy", squeezed out bit by bit. But, consider what happens when you squeeze the toothpaste tube too hard. The answer is a mess.
For my part, I favour putting on as much toothpaste on the brush as is necessary. Hopefully the result is a bright and healthy smile.
I advocate the close and eager participation by all sectors of Hong Kong society in the future political system. Between all the elected members, either by one man one vote or by functional constituency, we can make a solid base for future progress. After all, we must all get involved in our civic life
all of us, collectively to create the economic and political freedoms which all Hong Kong people cherish and wish to maintain.
Sir, as far as today's motions are concerned, I support Mr. Allen LEE's motion that expresses disappointment of the future political model especially in respect of the separate voting mechanism and the nationality restriction. I also strongly support the second part of Mr. LEE's motion that urges the community to be united in its efforts to achieve a successful democratic system. Sir, I do not support, with due respect to Mr. McGREGOR, his motion that deplores the political model proposed as extremely undemocratic.