TNAG-1439-FCO40-1923-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong-1986 — Page 83

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12.

In other

there quarters

is strong support for the introduction of members directly elected to the Council on

the basis of the universal

the universal suffrage now in force in Hong Kong for District Board, Urban Council and Regional Council elections. Proposals range from the introduction of a few

directly elected members,

elected members, to the direct election of up to a quarter or one-third of the Council. No one has suggested that the Council be composed entirely of directly elected members at this stage of Hong Kong's development.

13.

Functional constituencies were created in order that

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

now widely accepted; their territory-wide coverage is a strong feature. There was pressure at the time of their introduction, and this has continued, to increase their

number. An increase by two

by two to four members would probably be welcomed, to recognise for example the importance of

tertiary education, the accounting profession and the building and property development professions.

14.

Official members at present number 10. They are necessary for the conduct of Government business and there is a general belief in the Legislative Council that there should be sufficient of them to handle bills and reply to The addition of questions on all aspects of administration.

up

to four members could be justified to provide wider

coverage of government business and

be would probably accepted by the Legislative Council and the majority of public opinion.

15.

The Electoral College was established in

order to

provide representation on a geographical constituency basis. It provides at present 10 members elected by District Board groupings, and one each selected by the Urban Council and Regional Council.

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