TNAG-0238-FCO40-274-Trade-relations-between-EEC-and-Hong-Kong-1970 — Page 142

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The Constitutional Status of Hong Kong

In accordance with the powers vested in him

by the Letters Patent and Royal Instructions, the Governor administers the Colony assisted by an

Executive Council and a Legislative Council.

The Executive Council consists of 5 ex-Officio,,

1 Official and 8 Nominated Unofficial Members. The

Governor is required to consult the Executive Council

save where matters are unimportant or too urgent. He may act contrary to the advice given by the Council but any such cases must be reported fully

to the Secretary of State.

The Legislative Council consists of 4 ex-Officio, 8 Official and 13 Unofficial Members (all nominated). The Governor, as President of the Council, has an

original and a casting vote.

The power to legislate rests with the Governor "by and with the advice and consent of the

Legislative Council". The Crown however reserves the power of disallowance and the power to legislate by Order in Council for the peace, order and good govern-

ment of the Colony.

Hong Kong Department

9 October, 1970.