3
If these proposals were accepted one difficulty remained in that the
correspondence would have to be published. He thought however that the
proposals could be justified on the ground that the 1949 proposals restricted
the franchise to British subjects and therefore to only 20% of the population.
Of this 20% only a fraction would he thought, be prepared to register as
British subjects and therefore in fact only a very few people would exercise
the franchise. It could be said, therefore, that in view of the very peculiar
circumstances of Hong kong the Secretary of State did not agree to direct
elections but would agree to indirect elections, thereby widening the franchise
considerably, and the Governor would be asked to submit further proposals
accordingly.
This reply could be debated in the Legislative Council and
Sir A. Grantham considered that it would have the support of all reasonable
political associations though the Chinese reform association would probably
object to the abolition of direct elections. He thought however that it would
receive the support of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce as under these proposals
they would have a member just like the General Chamber of Commerce.
Sir C. Jeffries said that the proposals had been discussed at great
length with Sir A. Grantham and we supported them. While ensuring that all
members of the Legislative Council would be British subjects they would be
elected by people who were not themselves necessarily British subjects. In
answer to a question by the Secretary of State Sir A. Grantham said that the
proposals envisaged a Legislative Council consisting of 15 members whereas the
present Legislative Council consisted of 16 members.
The Secretary of State also enquired about the present franchise of
the Urban Council. lar. Sidebotham replied that the present franchise consisted
of the two jurors lists and includes certain other persons (Barristers, Solici-
tors, Doctors etc.) who are excused from jury duties. The Governor suggested
that the franchise should be left as it is and that any alteration should be a
matter for the new Legislative Council.
The Secretary of State thought that the major controversial issue
would be the dropping of the direct elections proposals. Sir A. Grantham thought
however that this would receive the support of all members of the present
Legislative Council. The Secretary of State considered that it would be difficul
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