TNAG-1453-FCO40-1964-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Basic-Law-1986 — Page 17

Date

23.4.86 (cont'd)

Statements by Chinese

Officials

BASIC LAW (81)

Newspaper Comments/Editorials Non-Communist

Communist

Statements/Comments by others

Ming Pao: The BLDC members have concluded a session in a rational and democratic atmosphere.

The Express: The BLDC meeting is a departure from China's tradition of having no one expressing opposing views.

the BLDC meeting have worried some people. However, it should be noted that arguments are normal and are a manifestation of the democratic spirit.

setting up of five sub-groups. The next BLDC meeting will be held in November this

year.

(report) Convenor of the sub-group on HK's political system Dr Louis Cha: HK's political system should seek to converge with the Basic Law, not the other way round. But it is a matter for the British and the Chinese Government, rather than the sub-group, which is only a working group, to ensure convergence. He adds that the sub- group's proceedings will be kept strictly confidential.

Four members

-

Martin

Lee, Sanford Young, Lau Wong-fat and Graham Cheng Ching-fun: Vote against the draft code of practice because they are dissatisfied with its format and wording.