TNAG-1726-FCO40-2439-Minutes-and-Hansards-of-the-Legislative-Council-of-Hong-Kong-1988 — Page 104

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central government. The White Paper clearly sets out these

three tiers and specifies the functions and objectives of

each tier and their interrelationship. I feel that this is a 6 significant improvement. The White paper recognises the

their functions of the pistrict Boards and the contribution in the districts,and It also distinguishes clearly the functions of the two municipal councils in the regions and their relationship with the district. Lastly, it also introduces

elected elements to the central government and ensures direct

elections in 1991. I personally feel that these changes are in line with the full objectives I mentioned earlier.

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All along, the composition of the Legislative Council and how members are returned are questions of great concern. According to proposals in the White Paper, in 1980 there will only be slight adjustments in the composition of the Legislative Council. In other words, appointed members will be decreased from 22 to 20 and functional constituency seats will be

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increased by two to reach a number 14. As for official

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members and members returned by the electoral college, the numbers will remain the same. I am in principle in support of the changes.←

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The White Paper

However, functional constituency seats should be further increased. It is hoped that in 1991 there will be two additional seats to accommodate more representative functional bodies. The way by which Legislative Councillors are returned is a most controversial issue.

suggests that direct elections will not be introduced in 1988 and will have to wait until 1991 to have ten directly elected members chosen from geographical constituencies. This has 30 been criticised by democrats in Hong Kong.. I feel that such gradual changes are most suitable for the political climate of Hong Kong and it is also accepted by the majority of our people.

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In 1991, there will be partial direct elections and the Government has kept its promise of introducing democratic elections. I am in support of such gradual changes. Since