GOVERNOR'S PROPOSALS ON CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Governor's proposals are the result of wide-ranging

consultations.

They respond to the rapid growth of political awareness in Hong Kong in recent years, and have the full

support of the British Government.

Governor aiming to make Hong Kong's administration more effective and accountable, and the electoral system more fair and democratic, while doing his best to ensure that the changes introduced under British administration will survive

beyond 1997.

- Believe strong executive-led Government, and vigorous

democratic institutions, are the best means of safeguarding Hong Kong's way of life.

The Governor's proposals are fully consistent with the Joint Declaration and the wording of the Basic Law. not contravene the diplomatic exchanges which took place in

1990.

They do

Simplest way to extend democracy would be to increase number of directly-elected seats at 1995 Legislative Council elections beyond the 20 laid down in the Basic Law. This

remains our view.

But, given Chinese position that Basic Law cannot be changed, Governor decided to explore in parallel how to use to the full the scope for broadening democratic participation within the terms of the Basic Law.

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