TNAG-2459-FCO40-3580-Future-of-Hong-Kong-constitutional-development-administrati-1992 — Page 57

CONFIDENTIAL

Member a Bill

16. To be suitable for offering to a Private Member

should normally be short usually no more than 10 clauses, simple

(non-technical), non-financial, though that is not an absolute

requirement. They should generally be non-controversial in party

political terms though that does not prevent inclusion in the

list of Bills which might be particularly attractive to

to the

Government's supporters. It may be unsuitable if it is likely to be unpopular with prominent non-parliamentary interest groups, but such proposals may be included on the list provided that the

likely reaction of outside groups is explained. Each bid should

be on a separate form and numbered in the Department's order of

priority.

Overlap Between Lists

17. Departments may consider that some Bills merit places in the Government programme but would also be suitable for offering to Private Members. If genuinely suitable for both categories they should be included on both lists, with a cross-reference in each

entry to the other one. Inclusion in the Private Members' list as well as the Government one will not necessarily lead to a Bill being excluded from the latter by FLG Committee. It is important for each entry to make clear whether there are any special timing

considerations which could influence the choice which is finally

made.

Cabinet Office November 1992

CONFIDENTIAL