TNAG-1007-FCO40-1257-Appointment-of-the-new-Governor-to-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-q-1981 — Page 33

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REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT

9.

A White Paper was published in Hong Kong on the 14th of

January containing proposals designed to bring about a greater

public participation in local government. It is envisaged that

legislation will be enacted this year, with the first elections

in early 1982. [If pressed]

In Hong Kong's special circum-

stances, it would be inappropriate to extend elections to

central government.

STANDING COMMITTEE ON PRESSURE GROUPS (SCOPG)

10. This is an interdepartmental committee set up in 1977 to

ensure that the views of pressure groups are fully understood

and advise the Hong Kong Government on how to respond. It is

an advisory body with no executive functions. It does not

infiltrate lobbies or pressure groups.

THE FILM 'COLDEST WINTER IN PEKING'

11. This is a matter for the Hong Kong Government.

The film's

permit was withdrawn because it was decided that it could be used

for propoganda purposes.

JUVENILE CRIME

12. The Hong Kong Government has commissioned a thorough

study of the causes of the increase in juvenile crime.

CASTLE PEAK 'B' POWER STATION

13. This order is a major success for British industry in

cooperation with the Government. It is worth about £550 million.

It will provide between 5,000 and 7,000 jobs over the next

7 years, many of them in the assisted areas. We congratulate

all those connected with the project and hope that other United

Kingdom firms will take full advantage of the opportunities

available in Hong Kong.

/RENEGOTIATION