TNAG-1598-FCO40-2191-Hong-Kong-1987-Review-of-Representative-Government-1987 — Page 117

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(iv)

(v)

"The main aims of the proposals are- (1) to develop progressively a system

of

government the authority for which is firmly rooted in Hong Kong, which is a ble to represent authoritatively the views of the people of Hong Kong, and which

is more directly accountable to the people of Hong Kong;

(2) to build this system on

our existing institutions, which have served Hong Kong well, and, as far as possible, to preserve their

features, including the

best

established

and

maintenance of the well practice of government by consensus; (3) to allow for further development if that should be the wish of the community." Hong Kong Government Green Paper 18th July, 1984

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"With few exceptions the bulk of public response from all sources suggested a cautious approach with a gradual start by introducing a very small number of directly elected members in 1988 and building up to a significant

number of directly elected members by 1997." Hong Kong Government White Paper,

21st November, 1984

of

a

more

(vi) "The provision for the legislature of the Hong Kong SAR to be constituted by elections was hailed by many,

including members of District Boards and the Urban Council as "far-sighted and progressive". There should be (as the Hong Kong Government plans) а progressive development

representative legislature with seats filled by direct election. At the same time there were many who said that prosperity and

stability must not be sacrificed to achieve democracy in a hurry as this might damage a good investment environment. Hong Kong would be of use to China only if it remains

prosperous and stable. The new political structure should be established by the late 80s or early 90s, as to enable Hong Kong people to practise self-administration before 1997." Report of the Assessment Office on the acceptability of the Joint Declaration, 29th November 1984

SO

(vii) "We all fully accept that we should build up a firmly-based, democratic administration in Hong Kong in the years between now and 1997." Richard Luce, Minister of State with special responsibility for Hong Kong, 5th December,

(viii)

1984 in the House of Commons

J1

You have my absolute assurance that Britain will administer Hong Kong wisely and well between now and 1997. our obligations to the full."

We shall honour But long before