SECRET
3.
The
to
of powers
senior
HMG
extend also
to approval
public service posts
of
and
to the
appointments
Executive and Legislative Councils, but it is rare for HMG not to accept proposals put forward by the Governor.
4.
In practice, HMG exercises its powers only in relation
to constitutional issues, to matters
with Hong concerned
(other than commercial) and
Kong's
external relations
security: to the appointment of the most senior personnel
areas
(eg currency and the Royal Instructions
the
and judges; and to certain limited banking matters) where under Governor cannot assent to a Bill without prior consultation with HMG. Even on these matters, there is, in practice, a
high
of degree
mutual
between
consultation
frequent
informal
and trust the Governor and the Secretary of
State and their senior officials on such matters.
There is
Hong
no question of Hong Kong being ruled by decree from London,
where the formal power to do so still exists. Kong is left to conduct government business
even
matters without reference to London.
on all other
The Governor
in
5. The formal constitutional powers of the Governor
However, in the same way as HMG Hong Kong are extensive. in practice does not exercise its full powers with regard
of Hong Kong, the Governor to the governance of Hong Kong,
in practice
He does not exercise his full powers within Hong Kong.
in accordance with the
(in He has only once
invariably acts on policy matters advice of the Executive Council. 1946) refused assent to any Bill passed by the Legislative
all Council.
on consults widely
major issues. respects absolutely the right of the Attorney General regard to decisions on prosecutions.
He
He
in
In the exercise of
his powers in regard to the public service, he very rarely,
if
ever,
declines to
accept
Public Service Commission.
the
recommendation of
the
SECRET
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.