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the last resort, the power to rule through the Official majority in the Legislative Council. It might be necessary to avoid this either by the provision of a balancing number of Officials, or by introducing a different sort of Constitution with reserve powers for the Governor. The latter might, of itself raise the suspicions of the Chinese, since it has in the past been seen as a step on the road to responsible government.
5.
A
Thirdly, the Unofficial Members of Legislative and Executive Councils in Hong Kong (UMELCO) act as an informal cabinet towards the Governor. This is a healthy situation, but it presupposes some coherence of view among the members. larger Unofficial membership with perhaps differing methods of selection or election might lead to greater divisions within the group. This would be particularly true and particularly undesirable if some of the Members regarded themselves as representing Peking and some Taiwan. It could also raise problems of the security. of official papers.
7.
The Governor has now written to the Department about Dr Chung's 'intervention and the reactions to it. It seems that his ideas were not cleared with his Unofficial colleagues, and that, in particular they do not agree with his suggestion of representation for particular groups. But they would clearly favour a review of the membership.
8.
From
The Governor's own view is that new candidates for membership of Council are only just beginning to emerge. the Hong Kong point of view he would therefore favour waiting. is also inclined to advise that this is not yet the right moment to introduce the Member system. However, he recognises that there may be pressure in the UK for faster progress.
9.
He
After talking the problems and opportunities over with the Governor, Lord Goronwy-Roberts may consider that a decision should come after his own visit to Hong Kong.
Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Dept.
13 Duuombar 1974
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