§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has received from elected members of the Hong Kong urban council, concerning a phasing-out of appointed members, expansion of the franchise and expansion of urban council jurisdiction; what reply he has sent and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LuardThree elected members of the Hong Kong urban council put forward these proposals in a letter to my right hon. and noble Friend of 24th June. In reply, they were told that we would naturally like to see appropriate moves at the right time towards a more representative system of government in Hong Kong but that patience and caution are necessary when considering changes which could affect the stability and prosperity of the territory. The councillors have recently renewed their proposals. A reply will be sent shortly.