RDIAGN
CONFIDENTIAL
ANNEX 1: STRUCTURE OF GOVERNMENT IN HONG KONG
1.
Constitutionally, the Hong Kong Government follows the Colonial model with wide powers vested in the Governor. In practice, the
exercise of those powers is closely circumscribed by convention, by
the realities
the political process, and by the tradition of
government by consultation and consensus. Recent reforms are a
of
further step towards a more representative system.
CONSTITUTIONAL INSTRUMENTS
2.
The Governor is the Queen's representative in Hong Kong. He
derives his authority from the Letters Patent and Royal Instructions
which set out the constitution of the Executive and Legislative
Council and the limits of the Governor's
powers.
THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
3. The Governor is obliged to consult the Executive Council (EXCO)
on all important matters of policy and to report to the Secretary of
State if he should ever decline to act on its advice. In practice
the Governor has not for several decades acted against the advice of
the Executive Council. EXCO meets weekly on Tuesdays.
4.
EXCO comprises four ex officio members (the Chief Secretary,
Commander British Forces, Financial Secretary, and Attorney
General), and twelve appointed
appointed members of whom all but two are
Unofficials.
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
5.
The Legislative Council (LEGCO) discusses and enacts legislation, including legislation for the appropriation of
of public
funds. Bills, after receiving the Governor's assent, pass into law
without external scrutiny, although reserve powers of disallowance
are retained by the Queen.
CONFIDENTIAL
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