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to remain in charge (as under current legislation), this
would be confusing to the public and could appear to undermine the BEC's independence. Hong Kong plan to inform the Chinese (either on 19 October or on 21 October) of their
decision to gazette the remaining parts of the Ordinance on
22 October, when they publish a formal "notice of vacancy" of
the DB seat.
5.
When we informed the Chinese on 13 October of our
decision to move the reporting deadline to 30 April, we explained that this was, in part, because we did not wish to
B prejudge the outcome of the talks. Hong Kong telno 1624
explains that, in contrast, the work of the BEC in organising elections will not impinge on any of the policy issues under
discussion with the Chinese. If the Chinese chose to
criticise us publicly, Hong Kong believe that the public will understand and accept our viewpoint. The way is therefore clear to take the action proposed.
Jani
J C Morris
becmin18.10 JM
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