TNAG-1717-FCO40-2397-Hong-Kong-1987-Review-of-Representative-Government-1988 — Page 125

direct elections. I enclose a copy of the Hansard record

of my opening statement in the debate which sets out the

government's views on Hong Kong issues, and in particular

the development of representative government in Hong

Kong, in some detail.

Our intention to proceed with the development of

representative government in Hong Kong remains unchanged.

We think that it is right to do this prudently, with full

regard to Hong Kong's circumstances and the wishes of the

community as a whole. This process should not be limited

to one particular model or form. Hong Kong must develop

its own system of government which is suited to its

circumstances and requirements, and which meets the

wishes of its people.

In considering this issue the British and Hong Kong

Governments have taken care to consult the people of Hong

Kong at every stage. This was the purpose of the review

which took place in 1984. It was also the purpose of the

current review. This carries out in full the commitments

made in the 1984 White Paper, which recorded the state of

public opinion in Hong Kong in 1984 on the subject of

direct elections to the Legislative Council, and stated

that the issue would be further considered in a review to

take place in 1987.

The Survey Office report provided a full and

objective account of the over 130,000 submissions it

received.

The work of the Survey Office was overseen by

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