DEMOCRACY IN HONG KONG
- We have said that we shall be discussing the 1995
elections with the Chinese side with the aim of ensuring as
much continuity as possible. Before that, the new Governor will want to consult widely, and put his advice to us.
will take a little time.
That
There are a wide range of views on the question of
increasing the number of directly-elected seats in the
Legislative Council. Underlines the need for Mr Patten to
consult widely, weigh up all the factors, and then let us
have his advice. That will take some time.
We shall be studying the LegCo Select Committee's report
carefully when we receive it. Understand it is to be
debated by the Legislative Council in mid July.
EXCO
My Right Honourable Friend The Member for Eddisbury made
plain to the Chinese Ambassador that appointments to ExCo are a matter for the Governor, with my approval.
AMENDMENTS TO THE BASIC LAW
The Basic Law is a Chinese law. Do not see any point in pursuing argument over hypothetical question. The first step is to hold discussions with the Chinese side on
electoral arrangements.
[If pressed.] What Mr Goodlad said in Hong Kong is patently the case: that such amendment would be largely a question of political will.
JB2AAD/2