CO537-6046 — Page 72

problem has recently been discussed in

London with the Governor of Hong Kong,

and it is anticipated that a despatch,

which will be made public, will shortly

be sent to the Governor of Hong Kong

indicating that, the United kingdom

Λ

Government are not entirely satisfied

∙1949 proposals have the effect, in practice, of limitery He proposed franchise to a very small proportion

with the proposals incorporated in the of the present population of Hong Kong, the Sof S

Legislative Council's resolution and

requesting the Legislative Council to

for the Colonies would be glad if further consideration

could be given to the possibility of devising other.

consider the matter further. It seems means, whercly the process for the selection

unlikely at present that whatever

constitutional changes are finally

adopted that there will be any provision

for direct representation on the

Legislative Council of either the

Indian community or the other main

minority community which consists of

people of Fortuguese descent.

non •

of unofficial members of the beg to would be placed n a broader basis, in which British,

as well

thing

British, interests could participate.

1.8 by some process of indirect election. Pr

K

There will still be a number of nominated members who will probably be nonimated from the Chinese, Portuguese & Indian communities but

The

final decision on they print has yet been taken.