TNAG-1014-FCO40-1264-HM-Government-s-responsibility-for-internal-affairs-in-Hong--1981 — Page 42

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Other conclusions drawn from the happenings over past two years could

include:

(a) pressure groups could be more persistent than those they were

trying to help and although Government's explanations of its policy and stand (on occasions such as Lego or written rebuttals)

are generally noted by the public, the pressure groups could

choose to ignore them;

(b) the parent bodies of pressure groups might or might not endorse their line (e.g. the HKCSS refused to support its CD Division);

(c) gimmicks were invariably used to attract the attention of the

media and weekends were exploited for better media coverage;

(a) confrontation with the authority is sought instead of avoided;

(e)

pressure groups could bring the issue to the attention of overseas critics of the HK Government, especially those in the British Parliament (both houses);

(f) though Government has stood firm on its policy, numerous staff

hours are used in preparing briefs and explanations connected

with the issue for local or overseas rebuttal;

use in

(g) side issues might develop if the matter is dragged on for too

long. The demand for review of the Public Orders Ordinance and the adverse comments on the Crimes (Amendment) Bill (cn loitering) are but some of these.

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