HC Deb 26 May 1972 vol 837 c520W
Mr. James Lamond

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if it is intended to appoint an ombudsman in Hong Kong.

Mr. Anthony Royle

Persons in Hong Kong with a sense of grievance have a variety of channels of complaint open to them and make good use of them. The Office of the Unofficial Members of the Executive and Legislative Councils has made a good start. I shall be discussing with the Governor whether existing channels need supplementing during my visit to Hong Kong next month.

Mr. James Lamond

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if it is intended to encourage constitutional development of Hong Kong.

Mr. Anthony Royle

Because of Hong Kong's special position, constitutional development towards self-government is not possible.

Mr. James Lamond

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if it is intended to increase the number of unofficial members of the Hong Kong Legislative Council.

Mr. Anthony Royle

I shall shortly be considering the recommendations of the Government covering appointments from 1st July, 1972, of all substantive members of the Legislative and Executive Council.