TNAG-2512-FCO40-3665-Future-of-Hong-Kong-International-Rights-and-Obligations-(IR-1992 — Page 9

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the

whole question of the status of women in society before making

a decision. We propose, therefore, to issue a Green Paper next year to consult the public on the need for action to ensure equal opportunities for women and men in society.

The Executive Council has endorsed this recommendation (see EXCO Memorandum XCC(92)183 and EXCO decision of 8 December, which have been sent to you separately by the Political Adviser's Office)

In view of the

above, we gave notice to move an amendment to Miss Lau's motion to make clear our wish to consult the public on this important subject. The amendment was subsequently withdrawn for tactical reasons.

Miss Lau's Motion was carried with a clear majority, with the ex-officio Members abstaining from voting. This outcome, however, does not prevent us from undertaking the Green Paper exercise. Miss Lau, replying at end of the Debate, did in fact acknowledge that the Government would proceed with the Green Paper exercise.

in

Against this background, our suggested line to take in response to Miss Hoe's letter and on the question of women's rights in Hong Kong in general is as follows:

Enc.

(a)

(b)

(c)

understand that the Governor has already addressed the issue of involving women in the democratic process

in his reply to AWARE

dated 23 November 1992;

HKG subscribes to the principle of equality of men and

women but considers it necessary to ascertain wider public views on the whole question of the status of women in society before making a decision on whether CEDAW should be extended to Hong Kong; and

hope that women's groups as well as other sectors and interest groups in the community would engage

in useful dialogue with HKG in the public consultation exercise to be held

in 1993.

ever,

Yours

тве

Mi

(John C Y Leung)

for Secretary for Constitutional Affairs