TNAG-1286-FCO40-16372-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong.-Part-2-of-2-1984 — Page 36

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Administration in Hong Kong", which was published in June 1980. In the short space of 2 to 3 years, District Administration has proved to be extremely successful, and it is now proposed to take this development a step further in March next year. All these, of course, tie in with the present proposals.

The Proposed Time-table and Other Issues

The various dates suggested in the Green Paper may appear to be arbitrary but by and large, they do constitute a

programme reasonable and workable sehedule. Relatively few comments have

been expressed in relation to the role of the Governor and ministerial responsibilities of Members of the Executive and Legislative Councils. This is not unexpected as the Green Paper itself does not attempt to spell out detailed proposals in this area. These, of course, are important issues, but it is right for the moment to concentrate on the initial stages of reform. In the light of experience in the next few years, ideas and proposals in this regard will certainly emerge. At any rate, at the proposed 1989 review these two important issues should also be the subject of an in-depth study so that by 1997 a fully

representative Government will be in operation. In the intervening years, it is more than a matter of expediency that Official Members should continue to offer their expertise and

helpful services in the two Councils.

Sir, much depends on how the people exercise their civic responsibilities. It is one thing to be aware of one's rights, it is quite another to exercise them sensibly and responsibly. The situation in Hong Kong so far as the majority is concerned,

ranges from total indifference to complete ignorance. This syndrome will not be easy to cure. Intensive civic education will certainly help. The important thing is to drive home to every man and woman in our vast community that it is in his or her own interest to adopt a positive attitude towards civic responsibilities and exercise them in a way that will contribute towards the preservation of our stability and prosperity.