TNAG-1333-FCO40-1765-Future-of-Hong-Kong-legislation-1985 — Page 149

CODE 18-77

Mr Burrows (Legal Advisers

WH218)

HONG KONG AGREEMENT:

1.

Reference

LEGISLATIVE PROCEDURE

likk 040/53.

RECEIVED IN REGISTRY

1 NOV 1984

(57

REGISTRY

Action Taken

DESK OFFICEF

INDEX

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Having read the "Guide to Legislative Procedure", I would be grateful for your advice on the following questions relating to the preparation of a Hong Kong Bill:

2.

a) We need to write formally to the Lord Privy Seal* seeking authority for the drafting of a bill by Parliamentary Counsel. I attach a draft letter from the Secretary of State. Is it in the correct form?

b) Could you let us have an example of "Notes on Clauses" which we can use for preparation of notes for Ministers on the Hong Kong bill?

c) Will our bill affect the prerogative? If it does the "Guide to Legislative Procedure" suggests that we need to consult the Queen.

d) At what state would we be able to put the bill itself to QL?

The Guide spends a good deal of time on the creation of a Divisional Team to deal with this legislation. In the

on intend to deal with this matter Department we

an ad hoc basis through Mr Galsworthy, Mr Hum, Mr Hoare and myself. Will you be supported by another legal adviser?

J N Powell

31 October 1984

Hong Kong Department

CC:

Mr Galsworthy, HKD

Mr Hum, HKD