TNAG-2213-FCO40-3179-Future-of-Hong-Kong-elections-memoranda-1991 — Page 229

For decision

on 27 November 1990

NITUENTIAL

XCC (90) 171 Copy No...X.

MEMORANDUM FOR THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS,

POLITICAL DONATIONS

AND REGULATION OF ELECTIONEERING ACTIVITIES

Annex A

THE PROBLEM

the

on

In the light of political development in Hong Kong and approach of the elections in 1991, it is necessary to decide the major issues relating to political organisations, political donations and the regulation of electioneering activities.

RECOMMENDATION AND ADVICE SOUGHT

2

It is recommended that

3

(a)

(b)

(c)

until the desirability and the need for a separate statutory framework to govern the status of political organisations and to regulate their operation, especially in respect of financial accountability, has been thoroughly examined and established, political organisations should continue

abide by relevant existing legislation, amended as necessary to take account of changing circumstances (paragraphs 9-10); and

to

the existing restriction on the collection of political donations in public places should be relaxed to permit this in confined public places but not on the street (paragraphs 15-19);

be

the public display of election banners and posters should

more effectively controlled through voluntary cooperation and consent candidates, backed up if necessary, by appropriate enforcement action and deterrents (paragraph 23).

among

Members will be asked to advise whether this recommendation should be approved.

4830

BACKGROUND AND ARGUMENT

Background

4

1/12/90

Government has not So far taken a view on political donations. We recognise, however,

organisations OF political

CONFIDENTIAL