CO_1030_1459_HONG_KONG_CONSTITUTIONAL_DEVELOPMENT_1963_1965 — Page 133

GAFIDENTIAL

:5

Page 133

Extract form letter from Sin Devid Teach Hong Kong

Ongon

Corista

Dev.

H"

FED 150/402 /or.

13.10.604.

In general, however, and always barring the disruption caused by the weather, things proceed reasonably smoothly. I shall be approaching you before too long I hope with suggestions for amending .the Urban Council franchise. These proposals will be largdy in the nature of a rationaliza- tion of the existing rules, with some resulting extensions, and one or two other proposals for extension. It is not, in fact, as easy as all that to think of additional categories of person's who could be added to those eligible to register as electors. Some Council members are in favour of increasing the categories of those entitled to vote without the formality of registering. I am much against this for a number of reasons, but chiefly because it is unsound in principle and may lead to difficulties which may embarrass us later if we extend our system of local government, and also. because it is unlikely to increase the poll to the extent its advocates seem to think it will. Page4wever, and I think you will find the Proposals Readily suggested will not amount to 'major conspicui

acceptable.

What-

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