TNAG-1283-FCO40-1635-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong-1984 — Page 103

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provisions in the Basic Law to be enacted by the National People's Council for the SAR or in subsidiary SAR legislation, with such amendment as might be necessary. The new provisions would enshrine the maximum degree of autonomy for Hong Kong (China) in respect of the exercise of executive, legislative and judicial functions. Continuing provision would be made for the separation of executive, legislative and judicial powers.

6. By virtue of the provisions of the Basic Law, the Government of

the SAR would have powers to conduct autonomously all matters

relating to the internal affairs of the SAR and to conduct

autonomously economic and cultural external relations. The Central

Government would be responsible for foreign policy and defence

questions affecting Hong Kong, but would consult with the SAR

Government on such matters.

7. In order to preserve stability and prosperity in Hong Kong, it will be necessary to preserve confidence. The preservation of confidence will require the maximum possible continuity of

institutions and these institutions will need to be seen to exercise

freely the autonomy provided for in the Basic Law. This implies that, while provision for Government structures will be made by the

National People's Congress of the PRC as part of the Basic Law of

the SAR of Hong Kong (China), they should involve a high degree of continuity.

8. The general structure of the Government that existed in Hong

Kong immediately prior to 1 July 1997 would therefore remain essentially unchanged. This implies that there would be a Chief Executive, an Executive Council, a Legislative Council, Regional Councils and District Boards.

9. The functions of the Chief Executive as they existed immediately prior to 1 July 1997, would also remain largely unchanged, although some changes would be necessary as a result of the removal of

constitutional links with the UK.

10. The Chief Executive and his Deputy would be elected in accordance with procedures approved by the Legislative Council.

The