TNAG-1283-FCO40-1635-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong-1984 — Page 189

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HONG KONG: CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT UP TO 1997

INTRODUCTION

1.

This paper is designed to provide a basis for a discussion on

a more representative system of Government in Hong Kong and sets out some options for possible reforms to the constitutional and

governmental structure of Hong Kong.

THE INCREASING INTEREST IN THE ISSUE

2. In recent years, an increasing interest has been taken by some groups in Hong Kong in the possibility of elections to the Legislative Council, or at least having the members of the Legislative Council selected on a more formal and visibly representative basis than the present appointed system. This is partly the result of the increasing maturity of Hong Kong system, notably through the emergence of an articulate professional middle class many of whom were educated in the US, Canada and UK.

3.

The approach of 1997 and the negotiations on the future have also stimulated public debate on constitutional and governmental issues. The Chinese have indicated publicly their intention of consulting the people of Hong Kong on the mini-constitution for the Special Administrative Region (SAR) which the Chinese intend long Kong to become post-1997.

4.

The Chinese side in the talks have also exerted pressure on the British side to produce ideas on the central constitutional issues. There have also been indications that the Chinese understand that Hong Kong cannot remain static up to 1997 and that the question of constitutional development and Government organisation between now and 1997 will have an important bearing on the success of any post-1997 arrangements which may be agreed.

THE PURPOSE OF CHANGE

5.

The purpose of change would be:

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/(a) to