CONFIDENTIAL
No decision has yet been made on when to introduce the legislation into the Legislative Council. The Governor has seen advantage in doing so on 31 March: the last opportunity before the Legislative Council rises for its Easter recess. But that is also the final day of the chinese National People's Congress, which would increase the risk of an intemperate Chinese reaction. The Governor plans to discuss the position with the Executive Council on 23 March, but not to take any decision then. If introduction did not take place on 31 March, the next opportunity would on present plans be 21 April, when the Legislative Council return.
I am copying this letter to Melanie Leech (Cabinet Office).
(J S Smith)
Private Secretary
CONFIDENTIAL
let.lyne22/3 JM CONDEV
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