TNAG-1815-FCO40-2576-Hong-Kong-Public-Order-(Amendment)-Bill-1988-1988 — Page 22

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CONFIDENTIAL

China Angle

7

機密

14.

Given their view of the importance of the

executive having sufficient powers, the Chinese authorities

can be expected to prefer no change in the Public Order

provisions. They have not so far commented on our

intention to review the issue but can be expected to do so

when the amendment is gazetted. Moreover they may well be

approached by the press. We propose therefore to brief the

Chinese on the day prior to gazetting but not to consult

them earlier. (To do so could encourage them to take a

view on a matter which clearly falls within our

administration.)

Our line with the Chinese should cover

the following points:

(a) it makes political sense for the HKG to be

responsive to opinion;

(b)

repeal will lead to no real weakening of the

Government's powers since Section 27 would in

practice have been very difficult to use as a

basis of prosecution in the courts;

(c)

•

the HK press is much better dealt with by

explanation and education than by legal action;

and

CONFIDENTIAL

機密