TNAG-1717-FCO40-2397-Hong-Kong-1987-Review-of-Representative-Government-1988 — Page 131

From The Minister of State

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

London SW1A 2AH

MKB Ouli

25 January 1988

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Dear I an,

26/1

Thank you for your leter of 11 January enclosing two letters from Mr Edmond Chan and Mr J M Ng, who live in your constituency.

I note the importance which Mr Chan and Mr Ng attach to the introduction of direct elections into Hong Kong's Legislative Council this year. But it seems clear that while there is a strong trend in public opinion in Hong Kong that supports the introduction of direct elections well before 1997, views are sharply divided as to whether this should happen in 1988.

I hope that the debate on Hong Kong which was held on 20 January in the House of Commons will have served to make clear the Government's position on this matter. I also trust that it will have demonstrated that there is no question of the Government having gone back on any commitments to the people of Hong Kong on subject of direct elections.

Our intention to proceed with 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

Ian Grist Esq MP House of Commons

LONDON

SWLA OAA

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