TNAG-2594-FCO40-3782-Appointment-of-Chris-Patten-as-new-Governor-of-Hong-Kong--Ap-1992 — Page 16

HONG KONG

EARLY DECISIONS ON DEMOCRACY/EXCO?

I have seen speculation, particularly in Hong Kong, about early decisions.

HQ Mr Patter

Quite unrealistic to imagine that on these important matters, Mr Patten will want to rush into decisions. will need to consult widely after his arrival, to weigh up all the factors, and then to put his advice to the

Government.

That will take time. Would not expect conclusions to emerge until the autumn at the earliest.

On issues relating to the 1995 Legislative Council

elections, we have said that we shall be discussing these with the Chinese side with the aim of ensuring as much continuity as possible. We aim to start those discussions reasonably soon. Decisions on electoral arrangements will need to take account of them, and are therefore still some way off.

BE1AAJ/1

these discussion