TNAG-0733-FCO40-937-Inquiries-on-democracy-in-Hong-Kong-1978 — Page 5

FCO40 Hong Kong Department Records 聯邦事務部香港部檔案 All

FROM: ROBIN CORBETT MP

KK OIL 8 Rts..:de

SY NO. 51

HOUSE OF COMMONS

LONDON SWIA OAA

CONSTITUENCY OFFICE

OFFICER

PA

Aaron T. Po

17a ALEXANDRA ROAD, HEMEL HEMPSTEAD, HERTS. HP2 5BS

Telephone 53174

свет догонку. Goronwy

20 December 1978

I have a constituent who spent some time in Hong Kong and who is concerned that there should be more democracy and accounta- bility within the colony. I think that he understands the constraints which the present arrangement with the Chinese government imposes but puts forward four main points on which I would welcome your comments.

These are :

1.

2.

3.

4.

The governor should be chosen democratically or by a representative committee of every one in the colony. Politics should be allowed in terms of the activities of lawful political parties. ( He says it is hoped to form a party akin to the Labour Party there). There should be an elected local council promised,

he says in 1964 by the then Labour government to replace the present inadequate urban council. The council should share power with the government and would form the basis of a central government when it is possible to achieve this.

I understand that the Chinese government has made clear its wish for a 'no change' situation in the government of Hong Kong but do not believe that is a policy which should have the support of our government.

As with decolonisation everywhere else, a start must be made in Hong Kong and this should have the support of the Chinese government which in other areas gives keen support to such moves.

I would be grateful for your comments.

Sincerely हि

Robin COIFE TY

Lord Goronwy-Roberts,

Minister of State

1. Acknowledged

22/1~

2. Minister of State has not seen H.K. G... Department for

3.

advice and draft repl; from

Lord G.R

Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Dowing Street, London SW 1.

Comments

Approved members can add comments, bookmarks, and private notes.

No comments yet.

Private Research Note

Private notes are available after approval.