22-65-1992 15:55 GOUT INFORMATION SERVICES
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The source also analysed why the EX Government was prepared to give up the "traditional" role of Exco and bring it in line with provisions of the Basic Law during the latter half of the transition period. It was believed that the EX-British Government had deemed it unwise to antagonise the Chinese side on the questiod of K's political development. Since there is no political benefit to be gained, it might as well compromise on the question of EK's political development in order to ́reap bigger economic returns. The provision in the Memorandum of Understanding on the airport that the British economic interests are to be taken care of is strong evidence of that.
Meanwhile, the chairman and vice-chairman of the United Democrats of HK (UDEK) respectively, Martin Lee and Yeung Sum, who are now in London, have expressed the hope that more directly- elected Legislative Councillors would be appointed to Exco in the future. However, the UDHK has not changed its stance on this question, i.e., the confidentiality rule etc. must first be scrapped. Moreover, should the new Governor really want to appoint directly-elected councillors to Exco, he should hold discussions with the UDEK.
The source added that an academic in HK had also pointed out that in the past, Exco was not governed by such rules. The rules, were apparently introduced in recent years as precautions against the liberals.
Media Research Sub-division
Information Services Department 22 May 1992
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