TNAG-2625-FCO40-3816-Visit-by-Douglas-Hurd--Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Co-1992 — Page 43

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SECRETARY OF STATE`S VISIT TO HONG KONG; 26-28 JULY 1992

QUESTIONS DUE TO BE RAISED BY OMELCO MEMBERS ON 27 JULY

(A). 1995 ELECTIONS (AND OTHER CONSTITUTIONAL ISSUES)

WHAT IS THE APPROPRIATE TIME TO RAISE THIS SUBJECT WITH THE

CHINESE GOVERNMENT?

- We have said that we shall be discussing the 1995 elections

with the Chinese side with the aim of ensuring as much continuity as possible. Before that, Mr Patten will want to consult widely here in Hong Kong and, of course, with all of

you before we reach a firm decision. That will take a little

time. Judgement of what is "the appropriate time" to approach

China will be taken in the light of the Governor's researches

and his advice.

(if raised)

DO YOU SUPPORT THE "OMELCO CONSENSUS" (30 DIRECTLY-ELECTED

SEATS IN 1995)?

-

<

No longer a consensus as the LegCo debate last month showed. Need to consult widely and weigh up all the factors.

RESPONSE TO THE REPORT BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SELECT

COMMITTEE ON ELECTORAL REFORM?

LegCo views very important, HKG will consult widely before proposing the way ahead.

CHINESE COMMENTS THAT MARTIN LEE SHOULD NOT BE APPOINTED TO

EXCO?

- As Mr Goodlad made plain to the Chinese Ambassador, appointments to ExCo are a matter for the Governor, with my

approval.

DO YOU BELIEVE THAT THE BASIC LAW CAN BE AMENDED?

- What Mr Goodlad said in Hong Kong is patently the case:

that such amendment would be a matter for the Chinese

sos.omelco.PR

SLM

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