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consolidation of political authority is much more important and
urgent. Due to the erosion of the favorable conditions for
effective governance by the colonial government, it does not have
the necessary means to enhance its authority. What is the more
likely outcome is an expanded political authority comprising the
Hong Kong government, the Chinese government and the moderate-
conservative leaders. In the process of formation of the allied
authority, there will be a diminution of the autonomy of the
colonial government, an enlarged involvement of China in local
affairs and a joint effort between them to develop local leaders.
However, the establishment of an allied authority is bound to be
afflicted with difficulties and strains among the three parties,
which might occasionally aggravate the conflicts already existent
in Hong Kong.