CO537-1651 — Page 47

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7. On a full consideration of the general question in the light of the factors mentioned above, I am inclined to think that the main constitutional advance in Hong Kong should take place in the Central Government and not in local government. I am particularly concerned about the lack of public enthusiasm for an elected Municipal Council which, if it resulted in the failure of this line of approach, might have serious consequences, and would mean that considerable time and effort would have been wasted in setting up the Council.

8. If this general view is adopted, it would, I feel, be necessary that the changes in the Central Government should represent a marked advance. My own view is that the following main features should be incorporated in the new Legislative Council:-

(a) Unofficial membership on a non-communal basis consisting of elected and nominated membera; the former to be equal in numbers to the officials so as to give an unofficial majority with the nominated members; the latter to be nominated by the Governor at his discretion not as representative of communities or interests but as persons concerned with the well-being of the Colony and possessing a special experience which will be useful in discussion on public affairs,

(b) Unofficial member as President of the Legislative Council, nominated by the Governor for the first session of the new Council and subsequently elected by the members.

c) Advisory Committees set up by the Legislative Council for the study of certain Departmental affairs,

/(a)