7.
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would have periodical short periods of residence and a long-term
contact with commercial and domestic questions affecting the Colony.
In particular, I have in mind senior members of the staffs of the
leading British firms, most of which move the individuals on their
staffs to and from the ports on the China coast as is necessary for
the conduct of their business. It would be a pity if, through the
operation of the residential qualification, these men were denied
a vote, and it would be a tragedy if, for the same reason, their
services were denied to the Municipal, Council."
My Committee therefore urges that whatever system is
adopted, the position of these men and the need for their availa-
bility to serve on the Council should be kept in mind. In the
event of the adoption of a normal franchise, one method of dealing
with the point would be to arrange that the residential qualifica-
tion would apply to corporate bodies and firms, and to provide that
the authorised representatives of such bodies and firms would be
eligible to vote, and to become members of Council.
In Sir Mark Young's broadcast of August 28 th last, reference
was made to the formation of a Commission which would decide on the
method of transference of the various services to the Municipal
Council. The suggestion appeared to be that this Commission should
consist only of representatives of Government and the Council, but
I would like to take this opportunity to record a claim on behalf of
the British commercial community of Hong Kong that that community
should be adequately represented on any such Commission, should it
be formed.
I have the honour to request that the views set out in
this letter may have careful consideration before decision is reached
on the subjects discussed and, if possible, before publication of
Government's proposals. Needless to say I, or a delegation from my
Committee, will be happy to expand or elucidate any of the points
referred to, and to discuss the subject with yourself or any of the
officials of the Colonial Office should it be so wished.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
C/& Hongkong (0)
Uniectell
Secretary 2 Joint-Chairman.