TNAG-1446-FCO40-1930-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong-1986 — Page 33

CONFIDENTIAL

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Public Perception of the Governor

Withdrawing from Legislative Council

21.

It has for a long time been realised that a good

deal of public education would be necessary before the

Governor could withdraw from Legislative Council, because

it is the function in which the Governor is most regularly

becomes

seen in circumstances of formality and power. However as

the role of the future Chief Executive

increasingly clear, and is revealed in the draft Basic

Law, it should be easier to make the change.

Timing

22.

If an early change is indicated, the choice for

timing the change lies between say 6-9 months before the

present Governor leaves Hong Kong, or say 6-9 months after

his successor arrives, in order to ensure a smooth

introduction and to avoid any linking of the change with

the departure or arrival of a Governor.

Effect on Official Members

23.

There have been suggestions that the withdrawal

CONFIDENTIAL