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policies before making further business commitments in Hong Kong. In short, they need continuity, certainty and stability. Then what about the ideals and aspirations of the local people for democracy? One must therefore weigh the price for rapid introduction of democracy against the possible loss of confidence and considerable problems of disruption caused by having adversarial politics prematurely. Hong Kong has no natural resources. Whether we like it or not, we survive mainly on trade and industry. Therefore it is extremely important for us maintain our business confidence. On the other hand, I agree that there should be social improvement and equality but the pace
must be one that the business sector can adapt to. Representative Government seems to me to be able to ensure a balance of achieving both aims and therefore suitable for Hong Kong in the interim period. Furthermore, what is suitable for other countries may not be suitable for Hong Kong. For example, Parliamentary Government in Britain is not based on 'proportional representation'. Members of Parliament are not directly elected by all the people but by their own constituencies. A Government
A may have come to office on a minority of the votes cast. general election vests the authority for Government in the leaders of one of the major political parties for a period of not more than five years. In USA, there are sophisticated and complicated machinery and process for elections and democratic Government which have evolved through a long period of time. Different criteria and methods are used to elect members of Congress and Senate and the President. The Government in large measure concerns itself with adjustments between economic groups. Therefore, there are checks and balances and strict
rules on 'lobbying'.
Thirdly, will it work? This depends on the people of Hong Kong. In the past, the people have shown little interest in politics and public affairs. It is encouraging to see many are now taking a much keener interest. This is definitely a sign of greater consciousness in public matters. The proposed plan, though conservative, is safe taking into consideration the lack
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