supp.PQ.rod
1.
DEMOCRACY/GOVERNOR'S PROPOSALS
Governor's proposals on broadening democracy have our full
support. But we are ready to consider alternative views.
Final decisions rest with the Legislative Council. We will
respect their judgement.
- Our essential requirement is that electoral arrangements
should be fair, open and acceptable to the people of Hong
Kong.
Right that we should also discuss the electoral arrangements
with China. In Hong Kong's interests to secure as much
continuity as possible in 1997.
Governor has delayed publication of draft legislation in
order to create best possible climate for talks. But we cannot delay indefinitely.
Delay in Publishing Legislation cuts LegCo out?
-
There is no question of the Governor or the Legislative
Council being cut out of decisions about the electoral
arrangements. The Legislative Council is responsible for
enacting the necessary legislation.
Chinese Veto?
the
We have said that we will recommend to the
Legislative Council any understanding reached in discussions
with China. But the constitutional position is clear: Legislative Council has the responsibility to enact legislation.
[If pressed]
It is a fact that the Legislative Council can amend draft legislation. But as the Governor has said, we would not reach agreement with China on something unless we thought it would be acceptable to LegCo.