TNAG-2709-FCO40-3915-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-and-Par-1993 — Page 170

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Split between the Governor and Whitehall?

Baseless speculation. The Governor has our firm support.

He and the Executive Council

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are fully involved in

policy-making on this and other issues.

Assurance that Hong Kong representatives will be part of British

team?

British team will of course include senior representatives

of the Hong Kong Government.

Sticking Points in Discussions with Chinese?

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There remain only a few detailed points of disagreement, which could and should be resolved quickly. House will

understand that best way to settle them is to do so privately.

Will you accept changes?

We and the Governor said all along that he put forward proposals. A range of alternative ideas have been put forward in Hong Kong. These have been published as a compendium to assist the members of the Legislative Council

when they come to consider the draft legislation. It is

right that they should have the final say. We will respect

their decision.

How long will you delay publishing the legislation?

The Governor has decided, with the advice of the Executive

Council, to delay publication for the time being, until we can see whether talks with the Chinese will make progress. But we cannot delay the legislative process in Hong Kong indefinitely. The aim is to enact legislation this session

so that orderly arrangements can be made for the elections

in 1994-5.