A PROPOSAL FOR A U.K./HONG KONG WORKING GROUP ON REFORMS TO THE ADMINISTRATION AND LAW IN HONG KONG
After my five and a half months in Hong Kong and the work on which this paper is based, it strikes me that there are a number of areas of public life which could profit from public discussion in the run-up to 1997 and, where appropriate, perhaps some changes specifically designed for public benefit. As a way of contributing to this process of change, I would like to propose to RIPA in London that a U.K./Hong Kong Working Group be set up, with a remit to report publicly from time to time on matters which in its view may require attention at the official level and elsewhere in the run-up to 1997. I would like this paper to be used by its members to start discussion on its initial workload. Its membership will include persons in an individual capacity from all relevant walks of Hong Kong life. Its first meeting should be held soon, and might be intended to prepare an "action" report on the following matters:-
(a) The Fabric of Government
(b) The Fabric of the Legal System
It is important that the issues be considered by those holding a spectrum of views, including those opposed to any change or development. I very much hope that the Hong Kong and British Governments will be able to lend support to the idea as well. And I hope that funding will come from both U.K. and Hong Kong sources. This part of the project, together with the lifestyle project in Part Two, could assist Hong Kong to form its own "united front" and thereby help along the job of finding Hong Kong solutions to Hong Kong problems. Personally, I would hope to raise matters in Beijing where a PRC view is relevant.
5.2.
A British Government statement gave me the idea for the use of the word "fabric". It said this:
"We shall continue to provide the framework within which the Hong
Kong Government can administer the Territory effectively and plan for its future. We are fully aware of the need to maintain in good shape the fabric of government in Hong Kong and all that that implies.
Initially, the discussion on the Fabric of Government would include three matters at least:-
(1)
(2)
Steps towards an accountable civil service.
Administrative reform and public benefit.