On the
less opportunity of influencing important decisions of policy through unofficial representation on a Municipality than through an increased and elected unofficial membership of the Legislative Council, which would be the alternative course of constitutional development. other hand, it is arguable that in practice, it would be possible to exercise more control over elements who might be subject to Chinese political influence, were they elected members of the Legislative Council (on which at the present stage there would be a strong representation of official members) than it would be if they were elected members of a largely autonomous Municipal Council, of which there could be no official representation of the Central Government. (In this connection I may say that I heartily agree with your view that it is essential that if a Municipality is created, it would have genuine authority, including financial responsibility, within its allocated functions. This however and the general financial aspect are matters on which it would be necessary to consult the Treasury.)
6. It was with some hesitation that I have decided to refer this general question back to you for your further views in the light of the considerations set out in the three previous paragraphs, as I realised, after reading your despatches, how very carefully you had gone into the whole question before making your recommendations, I recall too that it was at your suggestion that the final decision in regard to the creation of a Municipality was deferred last Spring for the express purpose of enabling the people to be consulted. But it did seem to me that the lack of enthusiasm among the people of Hong Kong for a Municipal Council and the other considerations referred to above made it very desirable to consult you further on the general qusation.
17.