20-MAR-1989 17:27
GOVERNMENT SECRATARIAT
852 5 840 1528
P.03
FAC Areas of Interest
Political situation and developments in political groupings
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Until relatively recently, the Hong Kong system of government was an appointed one. ΤΟΥ many years, there were two elected members of the Urban Council. This number was only increased in the early 1970's, when half of the membership was elected, albeit on a restricted franchise. In 1982, District Boards were set up, with so me members elected by Universal franchise: this was extended to the Urban Council in 1983. Since then, developments have included the increase to two-thirds of elected members in DBs, the creation of a Regional Council with directly elected members, the introductión of indirectly elected members to Leg.Co and the decision το introduce directly elected members in 1991.
Although
elections were only introduced relatively recently, the Hong Kong Government has long had an elaborate system of consultation through so me 270 boards and committees. Also regular system of wide public consultation through, e.g. Green Papers. Recent examples include development of representative government, Broadcasting Review Board report, establishment of Commissioner against Administrative Complaints, Securities Review Committee report, Education Commission report No. 3.
Historically little organised local political activity. In 1960s and 1970s, meinland Chinese politics remained important, inhibited development of indigenous political parties in Hong kong. Reform Club, Civic Association competed 10 UC elections. Also Occasional demonstration of political nature by students in early 1970s, e.g. re Senkaku islands and Chinese as
an official language. During 1970s evolution of pressure groups focussing on social issues e.g. SOCO, People's Council on Public Housing Policy, Christian Industrial Committee.
Lack of popular demand
inhibitea
for
of
DE at any level also development
political
parties. Government proposals for DBS (one-third elected Оп universal francnise 10 1982) led public opinion. Subsequently, with development of elections in 1980s, creation of political groupings to fight them. Also stimulated by negotiations on future, then drafting of Basic Law. But still embryonic, relatively small numbers involved, no formal political parties.
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to
comment on aims and groups. Members will wish to
Not appropriate for me influence of political
Find ουτ such details from those involved in them during their visit to Hong Kong.
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