TNAG-1597-FCO40-2182-Hong-Kong-1987-Review-of-Representative-Government-1987 — Page 118

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criticism in Hong Kong, and almost certainly also in Parliament. would be accused of giving in to pressure from the Chinese and

delaying the review because of their known objections. It is the

view of the Acting Governor, in the light of informal consultation with EXCO, that such a delay would not be publicly acceptable in Hong Kong, and that the effect on confidence would be serious. is certain that neither EXCO nor LEGCO would agree to it.

He

We

(C) A LIMITED DELAY

14.

There is however a degree of flexibility in the timetable to which we are publicly committed. This might in itself significantly improve the chances of achieving compatibility between the draft Basic Law and the terms of the White Paper. The Green Paper could, consistent with our declared timetable, be published as late as the end of May. We believe publication of the White Paper could also be allowed to slip to January or even February 1988. It is the the assessment of the Acting Governor that this slight extension of the

present programme would not attract intolerable criticism. It would

enable discussion at the December 1987 BLDC Plenary to be taken fully into account, although this will not necessarily give us definitive pointers as to Chinese intentions. Moreover we would have some ability to influence the LEGCO debate on the Survey Office Report so as to achieve the best interaction with the BLDC Plenary. We could aim for the debate to be held either first, so that Hong Kong views had been made clear to the BLDC, or afterwards so that the BLDC discussions were fully reflected in debate.

WHICH OPTION?

15.

The potential dangers in delaying the review for a year clearly ouweight the possible advantages of such an option. It would cause a major political storm in Hong Kong, which would undoubtedly seriously damage confidence locally and possibly overseas. While

there are also potential risks to confidence in the alternative

courses which are more likely to lead to disagreement with the

Chinese, we must conclude that a year's delay in the review would case such widespread doubt on our authority in Hong Kong as to

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