TNAG-2709-FCO40-3915-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-and-Par-1993 — Page 19

HONG KONG: DEMOCRACY

-

-

Bull Points

Governor's proposals on broadening democracy have our full support. But we are ready to consider alternative views.

Final decisions rest with the Legislative Council. We will respect their judgement, provided this is compatible with our international obligations.

- Our essential requirement is that electoral arrangements

should be fair, open and acceptable to the people of Hong

Kong.

- We want to discuss the electoral arrangements with China.

In Hong Kong's interests to secure as much continuity as possible in 1997. Door is still open.

-

Governor delayed publication of draft legislation four times

in order to create best possible climate for talks. But we could not delay indefinitely. We need to pass legislation in

Hong Kong before the summer break.

Publication of the legislation is not the same as

introduction. Decide that in the light of subsequent

developments.

It is an important point of principle for us that the role

of the Hong Kong Government representatives should not be

downgraded in talks about Hong Kong's future.

2

supp.PQ.rod