TNAG-2211-FCO40-3171-Appointments-to-the-Legislative-Council-of-Hong-Kong-1991 — Page 31

NORTH DISTRICT

(1)

United Democrats HK (UDHK)'s meetings with the Governor and Announcement of the LegCo Appointed Members list

Most respondents were somewhat surprised by the demands made by the UDHK immediately after the LegCo election. The move was seen to be too drastic and constituted a challenge to the power of the Governor. Even some supporters of UDHK had expressed reservations on Martin Lee's demands for appropriation of appointed LegCo seats according to the election results. Several North District manufacturers opined that if the Governor had acceded to the UDHK's demands, China no doubt would be infuriated and this would in turn erode investors'

confidence in the Territory. They also casted doubts on the intention of Martin Lee which they interpreted as an attempt by the UDHK to seize power in the name of democracy rather than for the stability and prosperity of the Territory.

The Appointed Members list was generally well received and respondents praised the Governor for his very tactful handling of the appointments in the face of pressure from UDHK. They opined that since the newly Appointed Members were all accomplished professionals with no political affiliation, they should be able to deal with LegCo affairs in an unbiased and sensible manner.