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TALKING POINTS
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1 May 1992
TALKING POINTS issues on Fridays and records public views and reactions on current talking points collected from a small number of respondents in both urban and New Territories regions by City and New Territories Administration liaison staff over the week. As TALKING POINTS is not based upon a large representative cross-section of public opinion, indications in it should be treated with caution and should not be quoted authoritatively without first checking their reliability with the City and New Territories Administration.
7/5
MR PATTEN'S APPOINTMENT OF HONG KONG
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Respondents in general welcomed the appointment of Mr Chris Patten as Hong Kong's next Governor, although some were disappointed that there had been no prior consultation with Hong Kong people on who should be appointed. While some still held the view that the governorship of Hong Kong was presented as a consolation prize
Mr Patten, many referred to his relative young age, energy and rich political experience and considered him
be the best candidate for the job. They believed that he could capitalise on his good relations with both the UK Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary and amass support for his policy initiatives as Governor. Some respondents hoped that he would win the respect of the Chinese Government and help ensure a smooth transition for Hong Kong. Other respondents hoped that Mr Patten could be more responsive to the views of the Hong Kong people and facilitate Hong Kong's democratization process. Some respondents opined that as Mr Patten was an experienced politician, he might be able to balance the differences of all · parties within the LegCo and enhance stability.
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Some respondents were worried however that given Patten's close relationship with the UK Government and business sector, the interest of the UK, instead of that of Hong Kong, would come first when conflicts arise. They were wary that Mr Patten might make use of his position here to foster strong ties with the UK with the objective of advancing his Own political career. Respondents hoped that Mr Patten would stand by his assurance of commitment and dedication and, as Governor of Hong Kong, stand up for the interests of the people of Hong Kong.
3.
Many respondents noted that Mr Patten was not familiar with Hong Kong and Chinese affairs but felt that he should be able to acquire the necessary experience and skill without too much difficulty. Some stressed the importance of detailed briefings by Lord Wilson and urged that there should be a longer handing over period. A number of respondents suggested that Lord Wilson should remain in Hong Kong for a period beyond July so that Mr Patten would be able to seek his advice as and when
necessary.
LAW AND ORDER
4.
All respondents were shocked and horrified when they learned of the Tai Kok Tsui shooting incident where four grenades thrown and seventeen people, including four police officers, injured. They all condemned the criminals for their
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C.N.T.A. 8 (Rev.)