TNAG-1327-FCO40-1740-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Ministerial-statements-1984 — Page 61

CONFIDENTIAL

such aspects of Hong Kong's Government structure up to 1997 will be a matter for British and Hong Kong Governments taking full account

of views of people of Hong Kong.

REPLACEMENT OF GOVERNOR AS PRESIDENT OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL? 159. General view of people of Hong Kong is in favour of making no

few significant changes in the position of the Governor during next years. Governor's position will be reconsidered in the 1987 review.

WHY NO INTRODUCTION OF A MINISTERIAL SYSTEM?

* 160. This issue raises important constitutional questions.

not a matter that can be decided in the immediate future nor the only way of proceeding. It will therefore be considered at a

later stage.

It is

is it

WHY INTRODUCTION OF FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES?

161. Hong Kong Government decided to develop present informal system of selecting Unofficial members from wide range of functional constituencies into more formal system. This system has grow up over many years and has provided LEGCO with much specialist knowledge and valuable expertise.

Also needed to ensure that full

weight should be given to representation of economic and professional sectors of Hong Kong society which are essential to future confidence and prosperity.

WHY THIS PARTICULR CHOICE OF FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES?

162. Have been identified with the object of ensuring that those major sections of the community having common social, economic and occupational interests are represented.

WHAT IS RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PROPOSALS IN THE WHITE PAPER AND THE

DRAFT AGREEMENT?

163. The proposals in the White Paper are concerned with the period before 1 July 1997. It is firmly agreed between the British and Chinese Governments that the British Government will be responsible However, in for the administration of Hong Kong until 1 July 1997. preparing the White Paper, the Hong Kong Government has recognised the need to keep in mind the provisions of the draft agreement on the future of Hong Kong, and the plans have been framed accordingly.

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