TNAG-1220-FCO40-1530-Democratic-representation-and-reform-in-Hong-Kong-1983 — Page 70

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danger of competition in elections between Communist, Nationalist and other factions. This might be a problem, but if indirect

elections partly based on membership of the District Boards and Regional Councils were used instead as is proposed, inter factional disputes could as easily arise at that level.

10. The positive arguments for direct elections are:

(1) they would be in line with the normal practice elsewhere in the

'Western' world, with which Hong Kong wishes to retain links; (ii) direct elections would be a much more convincing way of

demonstrating the popular will than the collegiate system which

the Governor has in mind. The latter would inevitably favour

professional groups. Direct elections would do more to meet the demands of the increasing numbers of young people of all classes with a stake in Hong Kong and to strengthen their

commitment to the territory's future;

(iii) they would be more acceptable to Parliament than any other

arrangements.

11. In view of Mr Adley's recent visit to Hong Kong and the publicity given to his calls for greater democracy in the territory,

we must be careful about how this idea is presented to EXCO. The

Unofficials may reach the erroneous conclusion that the introduction

of a proposal for direct elections so soon after Mr Adley's visit

suggests some truth in his claims to be in close touch with

Ministers. But we should not allow this aspect alone to overide the

arguments in favour of elections, at least as a later stage of

development. We should therefore urge the Governor to include the

idea in his paper as a point for discussion with EXCO.

12. The development of 'ministerial' portfolios is rejected by the

Governor on two grounds: only wealthy people could afford to take them on, and they would introduce another uncertainty at a time of

shaky confidence. The first objection could probably be overcome by paying ministerial salaries. The second is more valid, particularly against the background of the inadequate talent which might emerge,

at any rate initially and the likely reluctance of candidates to come forward. Departmental efficiency could well suffer. But while

the Governor may be right in suggesting deferment of the idea 'in

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