TNAG-0316-FCO40-352-Reform-of-local-government-of-Hong-Kong-1971 — Page 95

NOTHING TO BE WRITTEN IN THIS MARGIN

W(B)L SI-7406

We informed the Governor at the time of

our agreement with this approach which is

clearly reflected in the proposals now pu it

forward.

6.

The memorandum (paragraph 4) makes it clear

that the Governor does not regard the "local

authority" concept as suitable in Hong Kong's

particular circumstances; that he favours the

existing system of 'Government by discussion"

through a network of advisory bodies; and that

it would be preferable to offer the people of

Hong Kong an opportunity of participating to a

processes greater degree in Government 'purposes by

developing these bodies on a Colony-wide

functional basis rather than by investing

additional powers in the Urban Council.

to.

Indeed, despite the fact that the Urban

Council is the only elective body in Hong Kong

with executive functions, it is not regarded

locally as a genuine local Government body so

much as a functional authority statutorily

charged with specific responsibilities. But the

fact that a substantial number of its members

(10) are elected, encourages the Council to air

its views on matters outside its province. This

the Centra par

ما

((packed the leguitative cancil in perfuerte) the Central Government undoubtedly finds, irksome

чай and the Governor's proposals are accordingly

aimed at elearly defining the Council's

functions and responsibilities with a view of

Confining its activities within its proper

sphere, and at removing all Official Members from

the Council so that the Unofficial Members will

be discouraged from trying to score debating

points against Government departments generally

and will be publicly seen to be responsible for

success or failure in the fulfilment of their

duties.

3

19.