TNAG-1747-FCO40-2466-Visit-by-Sir-Geoffrey-Howe--Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-a-1988 — Page 10

FCO40 Hong Kong Department Records 聯邦事務部香港部檔案 All

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in 1991 that will be foreshadowed through introduction of 10 directly elected seats to LegCo.

Against background of Hong Kong's history and systems this is steady and successful progress. No doubt goes far beyond what Chinese prepared to contemplate in 1984. They have been moved by steady persuasion, based on expressed views of Hong Kong people.

13.

No "commitment" to direct elections in 1988. "postponement" of direct elections from 1988.

all our commitments.

No

We have lived up to

14.

No

Our decision was in accordance with wishes of Hong Kong people. During 1987 public opinion was painstakingly sought. clear support for direct elections in 1988. In every forum division of views. Concentration of critics on a single public opinion survey and its claimed deficiencies was total distortion of truth.

15.

Instructive to note reactions to White Paper in Hong Kong and

Britain. In Hong Kong

widespread acceptance that it represented balanced response to public views.

LegCo rejected by 42 to 7 motion regretting that direct elections would not be introduced in 1988

all sections of LegCo, including those directly elected at lower levels, were opposed.

Opinion poll recorded 66% satisfied with outcome.

In Britain this was not reported: instead, ill-informed criticism.

Basic Law

16.

Stand back and look at Basic Law. Only a year or two ago who

could have imagined that

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