TNAG-1288-FCO40-1639-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong-1984 — Page 13

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Although the proposal was, on the whole, reasonably well received, some concern was expressed that such a could weaken the Governor's position and cause confusion in Government leadership. It was also suggested that the relationship between the Presiding Officer of Legislative Council, the Administration, and Executive Council required clarification and further consideration. Some commentators suggested that firm proposals concerning the Governor's future role and selection should be put forward for consideration as soon as possible whilst others suggested that arrangements be made for the election of a Deputy Governor/Chief Executive/Chief Minister who would have the right to attend all Executive Council meetings and would be geared to replace the Governor by 1997.

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Although it is considered that there are good logical grounds for pursuing the

the Green Paper's proposal that the Governor should be replaced as President of Legislative Council by a Presiding Officer elected, in due course, by its Unofficial members, public opinion seems to favour caution as far as the immediate future is concerned. An initial change to present arrangements could perhaps be introduced in 1988 and it is suggested that, in the light of public comment and bearing in mind the political sensitivity of the subject, the proposal should be reviewed in 1987.

D OTHER RELATED MATTERS

Civic education

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An opinion which has been expressed strongly by many people is that arrangements should be made for the people of Hong Kong to be educated more effectively and comprehensively in political and constitutional matters, so that they will be able to understand better all the implications and complexities of proposals for the development of the system of government in Hong Kong. At the same time, this will stimulate and encourage them to take a greater interest in elections at all levels and to participate in the process of government generally.

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This suggestion is supported and efforts are already being made by the Education Department to develop civic education on these lines in schools. Encouragement will also be given to other educational institutions to provide civic education for the general public. This will be made clear in the White Paper.