TNAG-2448-FCO40-3564-Elections-in-Hong-Kong-Basic-Law-1992 — Page 50

28-OCT-1992 17:31

A.G.'S CHAMBERS

3

+852 877 2130

P.09

9.

will

. foreign

Finally,

nationals

I have seen

reports that the Basic Law

contain a new provision to restrict the number of who can be members of the Legislature to 15 percent of the total. This has caused concern in Hong would put 2 serious obstacle in the way of It would also be very difficult to implement.

Kong.

It

continuity.

10.

It is quite clear that the

acceptability to

sensible opinion in Hong Kong of 2 Legislature with a limited if increasing proportion of directly elected seats will be crucially affected by the voting and other arrangements to which I have referred. I therefore hope that you will give serious attention to these points.

11.

We

Let me assure you once more that it is the British Government's wish to do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition in 1997, in accordance with the Joint Declaration.

want to be able to support the Basic Law publicly when it is promulgated, and to persuade Hong Kong people to support and have confidence in it. But I have to say that if changes to the provisions of the political system are not made, I would expect resignations from the Executive and Legislative Councils. people on whom we depend to maintain efficient government in Hong Kong. There might also be a lack of cooperation Legislative Council in passing the necessary for the 1991 elections. In such circumstances,

from the

Legislation the ability stability

years

of

impaired.

These are the very

of the British Government to maintain the

and

✔

prosperity Of Hong Kong

in the remaining

British administration

could

be seriously