TNAG-0589-FCO40-722-Private-visits-of-leading-personalities-from-Hong-Kong-to-UK-1976 — Page 80

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THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

Social Composition

1.

The Governor of Hong Kong, with HMG's active encouragement, has, for some time, been planning to widen the social basis of the Legislative Council. He is shortly expected to make his recommen- dations. Meanwhile, there is speculation in Hong Kong about impending changes, including the idea, apparently being canvassed by Mr James Johnson MP, that members of the Urban Council should be

found places on the Legislative Council.

2. Sir Y K Kan has for some time been aware of the Governor's plan to widen the social basis of the Legislative Council and has been

involved in the "vetting" of possible new members. Sir Y K Kan would have an important part to play in the working of a differently composed Legislative Council since the main burden of helping new members would fall on him. According to the Governor, while Sir Y K Kan is in favour of the plan, he has become "increasingly nervous" about the implications. He is said to be concerned that the unfamiliarity of potential new members with the work of the

Council itself and of the extensive functions of UMELCO will create

considerable difficulties. Sir Y K Kan also evidently regrets the fact that the unofficial members will almost certainly cease to operate as a club in the future.

Line to Take

3. Lord Goronwy-Roberts may wish to say:

a. that he understands the Governor has involved Sir Y K

in his plan to widen the social basis of the Legislative Council:

";

b. that he appreciates the part which Sir Y K has evidently already played in this process and recognises the even more important role he would have to play in helping new members of the Council;

c. that he acknowledges there will be difficulties in

absorbing new members and in making the Council and UMELCO continue to function smoothly;

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/d.