136. The simplest and fairest approach for the nine new constituencies would be to define them so that they include the entire working population. This could be done by following the existing classification of our industrial and commercial sectors, in each of which every worker would have a vote:
-primary production, power and construction;
-textiles and garments;
-manufacturing;
-import and export;
-wholesale and retail;
-hotels and catering;
-transport and communication;
-financing, insurance, real estate and business services; and
-community, social and personal services.
Such a step would have two main effects. First, it would give every single worker in Hong Kong the opportunity to elect to the Legislative Council a Member to represent him or her at the workplace. Secondly, by encompassing all occupations, we will ensure broad representation in the Legislative Council.
137. These arrangements would result in the franchise of the 30 functional constituencies being extended to all eligible voters in our working population of 2.7 million. Naturally, each voter would only be able to vote in one functional constituency.
Stronger Local Administration
138. I come, fourthly, to the extremely important role of District Boards and Municipal Councils. This Council urged me earlier this year to review their role and to strengthen the representation and accountability of the Municipal Councils and District Boards.
139. The Municipal Councils already have extensive executive powers, but the very valuable District Boards are in my view far too limited in their functions. I intend therefore that their responsibilities, functions and budgets should be expanded in 1993 so as to give them greater responsibility for the issues which affect the residents of their particular districts. There are many local issues on which they are better placed to
39
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.