TNAG-0569-FCO40-702-Planning-paper-on-Hong-Kong-1976 — Page 133

SECRET

HONG KONG DOMESTIC POLICIES: DISCUSSION WITH THE GOVERNOR

1.

NOTE ON THE POINTS FOR FURTHER

The following seem to be the main points of divergence between the Governor's views, as expressed in his Despatch of 6 March 1976, and the Planning Paper which has been revised in the light of the Governor's Despatch, the Planning Committee meeting of 11 March and Lord Goronwy-Roberts's meeting of 15 March:

I.

Institutional

The Governor attaches great importance to the maintenance of the close working relationship at present existing between the Unofficials in the Executive and Legislative Councils; and between the Unofficials as a whole and officials. The Planning

Paper argues that, in the interests of more open government, there should be greater differentiation of function between the two Councils which would give greater scope for public discussion and debate of important issues. Arguments for and against both propositions are given in paragraph 21 of the Planning Faper. Lord Goronwy-Roberts believes that the risks involved in greater public discussion in Hong Kong and of greater friction with Britain inherent in greater differentiation are worth taking.

II.

Institutional

The Planning Paper (paragraph 22) argues in favour of aries for LegCo and ExCo members together with effective secretarial help and research assistance. This is thought to be necessary in the interests of widening the social base of both bodies.

III.

Institutional

The Planning Paper (paragraph 23) argues the political necessity of appointing someone drawn from the independent trade unions when the Legislative Council is enlarged in June.

SECRET

/IV.