Before giving the permission, we ought to know something about the proposed constituency. We want information as to the probable number of tenant voters, whether they will comprise Chinese & other foreigners to any extent, and whether any respectable part of the community will be excluded by such a qualification.
I understand from Mr Merivale that the provisions contained in Para 4-11 would be contained in New Royal Instructions & that the remaining part of the scheme, as per Colonial Ordnance, might be sanctioned. Before I concur with you, it would be desirable to know something more about the proposed constituency.
There are some other points of importance which may be worth consideration. I will notice them in the order of the paragraphs of Sir J. Bowring's minute. Para 7. Unless there be very special reasons with which I am sufficiently acquainted, I should think the proviso requiring the elected members to be Justices of the peace is objectionable, both inconvenient & unnecessary. If such a restriction is necessary, machinery must be devised for carrying it into practical operation.
Para 9, 10, 11. There are arrangements which might perhaps answer at first, but to charge the Executive Council with the decision on claims to be voters is a bad arrangement, & one which will sooner or later produce inconvenience. Having got one officer responsible...