TNAG-1444-FCO40-1928-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong-1986 — Page 32

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5.

would allow Chief Executive-designate and administration/

legislation to get used to working together;

He

would give us say in appointment of Chief Executive.

would be selected in consultation with Chinese. Would

assist us to project our influence beyond 1997 into first

crucial years of Hong Kong SAR.

Envisage that powers would be progressively transferred

from Governor to Chief Executive-designate. By 1997 he should

have all powers to be exercised by Chief Executive. Governor

would retain ultimate authority and specific responsibility

for foreign affairs, defence and security. HMG would retain

Joint Declaration responsibility for administration of Hong Kong, and could resume full powers in emergency. But high

degree of autonomy exercised in practice by Chief Executive-

designate before 1997 would help protect the position he would

occupy vis-a-vis Chinese thereafter.

6.

Consequential issues do not require decision now. Can

be addressed only after discussion with Chinese. Suggest

objectives should be:

7.

two-stage approach. Appoint Deputy Governor around

1992. Second term (perhaps second incumbent) would

bridge 1997.

devolution preferred to delegation: appears more

irrevocable.

method of selection of Chief Executive-designate to be

discussed with Chinese.

Propose paper should be passed to Chinese. Have

established good channel. Should use it soon.

8.

Bargain in

[Increase Chinese influence before 1997?]

our favour. We would retain up to 1997 the ultimate power of

appointment. Would resist unsuitable Chinese candidate. But

would gain influence over post-1997 administration through

joint selection of Chief Executive.

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19.