TNAG-1326-FCO40-1738-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-debates-1984 — Page 113

CONFIDENTIAL

(F)

CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

16. I fully accept legitimate concerns which have been expressed

that we should build up a firmly based democratic administration in

Hong Kong in the years between now and 1997. The White Paper sets

out proposals concerning elections to the Legislative Council

(LEGCO) in 1985, after taking account of public comments on the

earlier Green Paper. For the first time in Hong Kong, some LEGCO

members will be indirectly elected, rather than appointed by the

Governor. The White Paper envisage a step-by-step approach to more representative government, which fully takes into account Hong

Kong's special circumstances and traditions. A review of further

possible developments will be held in 1987, before 1988 elections.

17.

Public reaction to the Green Paper in Hong Kong was generally in favour of its aims and of gradual and progressive nature of its

proposals. The public recognised the need to ensure that the

prosperity and stability of Hong Kong are not put at risk by

introducing too many constitutional changes too quickly. But

Sponded Hong Kong Government has represented to public feeling by increasing The

number of LEGCO members to be elected in 1985 from 12 to 24.

18. Public comment on proposals in the Green Paper showed little

evidence of support for any move towards direct elections in 1985. While many people favoured the idea of direct elections in principle, few wanted them in the immediate future. The question

will be considered further in the 1987 Review.

19. It is firmly agreed between the British and Chinese Governments

that HMG will be responsible for the administration of Hong Kong

until July 1997. But White Paper proposals are entirely

consistent with provisions in draft agreement on future of Hong Kong (which specified that legislature of Hong Kong SAR shall be

constituted by elections).

20. In preparing the White Paper, the Hong Kong Government has recognised the need to keep in mind the provision of the draft agreement on the future of Hong Kong and the proposals have been framed accordingly. The draft agreement states that the Government

CONFIDENTIAL