Question Bank - Modernisation and Transformation of Hong Kong

New Century World History Question Bank
1 Modernisation and Transformation of Hong Kong
Data-based Questions
1. Study Sources A, B and C.
Source A
The following passage is about the power of the Governor in the early 20th century.
All the powers were held in the hands of the Governor. … The constitutional documents from
the British government did not clearly state how the powers of the Governor could be
constrained but it just generally granted all the governing powers to the Governor, … Powers
were highly concentrated and the rule of the Governor could be regarded as an autocracy in
terms of institution. The Governor had the power to dissolve the Legislative Council. He could
veto the decision of the Executive Council. … He could even made decision and take action by
his own will without considering the suggestion of the Executive Council.
Source B
The following passage is adapted from a scholar’s comment on the power of the Hong Kong
Governor.
In conclusion, the Governor represents the highest power of Britain to rule over Hong Kong. He
holds great power in the executive, legislature and judiciary. Democratic elements are absent
here. The Letters Patent and the Royal Instructions regarded by many as the ‘constitution’ of
Hong Kong mention nothing about civil rights.
Source C
The following passage is about the abolishment of the mui tsai system in 1923. The Governor was
Stubbs.
When the Female Domestic Service Ordinance was debated in the Legislative Council in
February 1923, Stubbs told members plainly that ‘I have definite instructions from the British
Government that the mui tsai system be abolished. On this there can be no compromise.’
The Chinese members of the Legislative Council chose not to oppose it. Much of the new law
repeated existing provisions but the new and most contentious issues were included in Part III of
the Ordinance. This was to be brought into effect on a date to be decided by the Governor and
was not introduced for six years. Stubbs claimed that the situation in 1923 was not conductive to
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introducing measures which lacked the support of the local Chinese.

(a) Infer from Sources A and B the nature of the Hong Kong Governors’ governance Explain
your answer with reference to Sources A and B. (4 marks)
(b) Does Source C justify the nature of the Hong Kong Governors’ governance you identified in
(a)? Explain your answer with reference to Source C. (3 marks)
(c) With reference to Sources A and B, and using your own knowledge, assess the powers and
constraints of the Hong Kong Governor. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Infer from Sources A and B the nature of the Hong Kong Governors’ governance.[4 marks]
L1 Able to point out the nature, but the answer is vague and/or with use of only Source A
or B to answer. [max. 2]
L2 Able to point out the nature, with use of both Sources A and B to answer. [max. 4]
Answer: autocratic
Explanation:
e.g. - The Governor had the power to dissolve the Legislative Council. He could veto
the decision of the Executive Council. (Source A)
- The Governor held great power in the executive, legislature and judiciary.
(Source B)
(b) Does Source C justify the nature of the Hong Kong Governors’ governance you identified
in (a)? [3 marks]
Answers should be negative, or else it would be difficult to raise justifications.
L1 Vague answer with ineffective use of the Source. [max. 1]

L2 Clear answer with effective use of the Source. [max. 3]
e.g. - Stubbs claimed that the situation in 1923 was not conductive to introducing
measures which lacked the support of the local Chinese.
(c) With reference to Sources A and B, and using your own knowledge, assess the powers and
constraints of the Hong Kong Governor [8 marks]
L1 Vague argument, ineffective in using both Sources and relevant historical examples.
[max. 2]
L2 Clear yet unbalanced argument, effective in using Sources or relevant historical
examples only. [max. 4]
L3 Clear and balanced argument, effective in using both Sources and relevant historical
examples. [max. 8]
Powers:
e.g. - The Governor had the power to dissolve the Legislative Council. He could veto
the decision of the Executive Council. He could even made decision and take
action by his own will without considering the suggestion of the Executive

Council. (Source A)
- The Governor held great power in the executive, legislature and judiciary.
(Source B)
- Since ex-officio members and official members were the majority in the
Legislative and Executive Councils, the passage of the Governor’s decisions
was mainly successful. (Source C and own knowledge)
- All of the senior officials and members of the Executive and Legislative
Councils were appointed by the Governor. (own knowledge)
- When there were equal votes on both sides in the Legislative and Executive
Councils, the Governor had a casting vote. (own knowledge)
Constraints:
e.g. - The Governors should take the interest of the local Chinese into account to
avoid upsetting the latter. (Source C)
- The term of appointment for senior officials and members of the Executive
Council usually exceeded that of the Governor. Therefore, the new Governor
needed to co-operate with them. (own knowledge)
- The Governor was only the nominal Commander of the military forces without
actual military power. (own knowledge)
- When drafting policies, the Governor must consult other officials. (own
knowledge)
- The Governor should avoid upsetting the merchants, or else he might be
removed. (own knowledge)

2. Study Sources A and B.
Source A
The following passage describes the power of the Governor in the early 20th century.
We should see that the Governor of Hong Kong could only exercise his power for maintaining
Britain’s colonial interests within the area set by the British government. The Letters Patent
stated that the British government had the power to amend, abolish or enact laws of Hong Kong.
According to the rules of the political system, the ministers of the British government concerned
were responsible for any action of the Hong Kong government to the British Parliament.
Britain’s ministers concerned had the power to command the Governor. The British government
was also directly responsible for external relations of Hong Kong. Governor’s appointments of
officials needed the approval of the British government. The Governor had to report his work to
the British government and seek its instructions for all important decisions. When handling
problems, the Governor had to take public opinion into consideration (mainly the opinion of the
British merchants and the upper class of the Chinese), in order to avoid strong public discontent
which might lead to investigation of the British government and questioning from the
Parliament.
Source B
The following extract is adapted from the memoirs written by the former Hong Kong Governor
Alexander Grantham.
The official members must vote as directed by the Governor who presides at both Councils. …
When the unofficial members objected to a course of action which the government proposed to
take, they preferred to work out a compromise behind the scenes.
In a crown colony form of government, the danger of the colony being bureaucrat-ridden is
inherent, Happily this did not occur in Hong Kong, mainly because Hong Kong had a tradition
of free enterprise with the minimum of government interference. Consequently the civil servant
did not dominate the scene. Occasionally one would try to throw his weight around too much,
but he would be speedily called to order. … However, the best watch-dogs were the unofficial
members of Executive Council.

(a) Cite two clues from Source A to infer the role of the Hong Kong Governor in colonial affair.
(3 marks)
(b) According to Source B, identify two characteristics of the rule of Hong Kong government
before the Second World War. (4 marks)
(c) In the early 20th century, what factors affected the governance of the Hong Kong Governor?
Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using your own knowledge.
(8 marks)

Answer
(a) Cite two clues from Source A to infer the role of the Hong Kong Governor in colonial
affair. [3 marks]
One mark for valid answer and one mark for each valid clue.
Answer:
e.g. - Interest co-ordinator
Clues:
e.g. - The Governor had to report his work to the British government and seek its
instructions for all important decisions
- When handling problems, the Governor had to take public opinion into
consideration, in order to avoid strong public discontent which might lead to
investigation of the British government and questioning from the Parliament.
(b) Two characteristics of the rule of Hong Kong government before the Second World War
[4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, ineffective in using the Source; or [max. 2]

Clear answer, able to explain one characteristic with effective use of the Source only.
L2 Clear answer, able to explain two characteristics with effective use of the Source.
[max. 4]
Characteristics:
e.g. - The Governor enjoyed enormous ruling power. The official Members of the
Executive and Legislative Councils had to vote according to the Governor’s
instruction.
- The unofficial members of the two Councils had a good relationship with
Governor. They rarely clashed with the Governor on policy making. Instead,
they tended to privately reach consensus with the Governor.
- Regarding economic development, the government adopted a positive non-
intervention policy to lessen control over enterprises.
(c) In the early 20th century, what factors affected the governance of the Hong Kong
Governor?
[8 marks]
[max. 2]


examples. [max. 8]
Sources:
e.g. - British government: the Governor was accountable to the British government.
Governor’s appointments of officials needed the approval of the British
government. The Governor had to report his work to the British government and
seek its instructions for all important decisions. (Source A)
- Public opinion: the Governor had to take the opinion of the British merchants
and the upper class of the Chinese into consideration, in order to avoid strong
public discontent which might lead to investigation of the British government
and questioning from the Parliament. (Source A)
- The unofficial members of Executive Council: The unofficial members of
Executive Council were the watch-dogs of the Governor, who had to gain their
support. (Source B)
- Free market policy: the government should not intervene the free market, or else
it would be speedily called to order. (Source B)
Own knowledge:
e.g. - Other government officials: When drafting policies, the Governor must consult
other officials.
- Senior officials and members of the Executive Council: The term of
appointment for senior officials and members of the Executive Council usually
exceeded that of the Governor. Therefore, the new Governor needed to co-
operate with them.

Source A
The following passage introduces Henry May, the 15th Governor of Hong Kong (1912-1919 in
office).
May could almost be regarded as one of the local Hong Kong people. He had been living in
Hong Kong for 38 years. He first came to Hong Kong as a cadet. He was then promoted to
different official ranks and finally appointed the Governor. One of May’s greatest contributions
to Hong Kong was the construction of roads in the northern and southern parts of Hong Kong
Island.
During his tenure, another significant incident was the Racecourse Huge Fire in 1918 that
caused more than 600 deaths. …As a result, the Hong Kong Government conducted public
hearings to collect public opinions. This set a precedent in the Chinese community.
When May was about to retire from office, the May Fourth Movement broke out in China. …
The movement received support from the students, merchants and department stores in Hong
Kong. Meanwhile, a textbook published in Shanghai with anti-Japan and anti-imperialist content
was adopted by many schools in Hong Kong. Deeply concerned by this matter, the government
sent education officers to schools to ban the book.

Source B
The following passage is about Cecil Clementi, the 17th Governor of Hong Kong (1925-1930 in
office).
After graduating from Cambridge University in 1899, Clementi came to Hong Kong as a cadet.
Shortly afterwards, he went to Guangzhou to learn Cantonese and Chinese calligraphy.
In 1903 he began to serve in the Hong Kong government. In 1910, he became the private
secretary to Governor Henry May. Clementi was soon promoted to Acting Colonial Secretary, as
well as the official member of the Executive and Legislative Councils. In 1913, Clementi was
transferred abroad. In November 1925, he was appointed the 17th Governor of Hong Kong. The
first thing he had to deal with after taking office was the Guangdong-Hong Kong General Strike.
He used his advantage of knowing Cantonese to negotiate with the Guangzhou Nationalist
Government through the local Chinese merchants. After 7 months of negotiation, the strike
came to an end in October 1926.
After the strike had ended, Clementi adopted many conciliatory measures to ease the tension
between the government and the local Chinese, such as … supporting the establishment of
Heung Yee Kuk, appointing the first Chinese unofficial member of the Executive Council, and
increasing the number of Chinese members in the Legislative Council.
Clementi was very fond of Chinese traditional culture. With his suggestion and support, the
University of Hong Kong set up the department of Chinese language. He often met and chatted
with Chinese scholars.
(a) Infer from Sources A and B two major conditions for being appointed the Governor.
(4 marks)
(b) What are the similarities between the rule of May and Clementi? Explain your answer with
reference to Sources A and B. (3 marks)
(c) Do you think that the Chinese in Hong Kong during the period 1912-1930 were satisfied
with the rule of May and Clementi? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B,
and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Infer from Sources A and B two major conditions for being appointed the Governor.
[4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, with ineffective use of both Sources A and B; or [max. 2]

Clear answer, only pointing out one condition; or
Clear answer, pointing out more than one condition with use of Source A or B only.
L2 Clear answer, pointing out more than one condition with effective use of both Sources
A and B. [max. 4]
e.g. - Rich experience in administration in Hong Kong (Sources A and B)

- Remarkable academic background (Source B)
- Interest in Chinese culture (Source B)
(b) What are the similarities between the rule of May and Clementi? [3 marks]
L1 Able to point out similarities, ineffective in using Sources for explanation. [max. 1]
L2 Able to point out similarities, effective in using Sources for explanation. [max. 3]
Similarities:
e.g. - Listen to public opinion/adopt reconciliatory measures towards the Chinese
Explanation:
e.g. - May conducted public hearings after the Racecourse Huge Fire. (Source A)
- Clementi negotiated with Hong Kong Chinese merchants to solve the
Guangdong-Hong Kong General Strike. (Source B)
- Clementi made concessions and adopted conciliatory measures towards the
Chinese. (Source B)
(c) Do you think that the Chinese in Hong Kong during the period 1912-1930 were satisfied
with the rule of May and Clementi? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Satisfied:

e.g. - Both of them were willing to listen to the opinion of the local Chinese. (Source
A)
- Clementi negotiated with Hong Kong Chinese merchants to solve the
Guangdong-Hong Kong General Strike. (Source B)
- Clementi made concessions and adopted conciliatory measures towards the
Chinese. (Source B)
- The Chinese generally resided in Hong Kong temporarily until they made
enough money for emigration, so they had relatively few demands to the
government. (own knowledge)
- The local Chinese did not stage any armed struggles against the Hong Kong
government during the period 1912-1930. (own knowledge)
Not satisfied:
e.g. - Anti-imperialism sentiments arose amidst Hong Kong students due to the May
Fourth Movement. (Source A)
- Hong Kong Chinese joined the Guangdong-Hong Kong General Strike against
the British government. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following extract is adapted from the speech given by the Governor Hennessy at the
Legislative Council in 1881.
Our Legislative Council, as constituted at this moment, represents the community. We have now,
and have had for some time past, a Chinese member sitting in this Council Chamber. No one, I
am sure, will deny that I was justified in recommending the Queen to appoint a Chinese member
on the Legislative Council in a Colony where so much of the commercial life is conducted by
the Chinese – where the wealthiest merchants are Chinese – where the Chinese possess so much
property – where they are the permanent inhabitants, and where nine-tenths of the Government
revenues are contributed by them. We have, I am happy to say, a representative here of the old
house of TURNER & Co., and a representative of the great house of JARDINE, MATHESON &
Co., – and the official members of the Council, they also represent something more than the
Government; so that, as far as this body is concerned, it has, I think, every requisite a legislative
body should possess for the proper conduct of public business.
Source B
The following passage shows the racial discrimination against the Chinese in the early 20th
century of Hong Kong.
In 1901, a group of Europeans petitioned the colonial government for a separate school for
Europeans, arguing that integrated education harmed the morality and character of European
children. Although one Chinese resident complained in the local press that ‘to exclude Chinese
from certain schools means to go against the law of nature and to aggravate the hatred between
Chinese and foreigners’ and Secretary for the Colonies Chamberlain condemned the proposal, it
enjoyed great support among European parents and the colonial government. Ironically, the new
school, the Kowloon British School, had originally been built and presented to the colonial
government by the Eurasian Robert Ho Tung, as a school for all races.
(a) With reference to Source A, identify one reason for Hennessy to absorb Chinese into the
Legislative Council. (3 marks)
(b) What policies did the Hong Kong government adopt in governing the Chinese? Explain your
answer with reference to Sources A and B. (4 marks)
(c) ‘Under the colonial rule in the early 20th century, the Chinese had a lower social status
compared with Europeans.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A

and B, and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) One reason for Hennessy to absorb Chinese into the Legislative Council [3 marks]

e.g. - The Chinese had economic strengths. They conducted trades. The tycoons were
all Chinese in Hong Kong.
- The Chinese owned property in Hong Kong. They had lived in Hong Kong for
long.
- The Chinese was the major tax payer.
(b) What policies did the Hong Kong government adopt in governing the Chinese? [4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, ineffective in using both Source A and B or merely using one source.
[max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, effective in using both Source A and B. [max. 4]
e.g. - The colonial government adopted conciliatory measures by absorbing the

Chinese elites into Legislative Council.
- The colonial government adopted oppressive measures by establishing a
separate school for Europeans, excluding the Chinese. The Chinese was
discriminated.
(c) ‘Under the colonial rule in the early 20th century, the Chinese had a lower social status
compared with Europeans.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
Answers should be affirmative, or else it would be difficult to raise justifications.
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
e.g. - Chinese members composed a minority in the Legislative Council. The majority
were British merchants and government officials. (Source A)
- The colonial government practiced discrimination against the Chinese by
separating Chinese and European students. (Source B)

- The Chinese could only take up junior position in the civil service. Important
posts, such as Administrative Officer, were not open to them. (own knowledge)
- The residence of the Chinese on the Peak and at some part of Cheungchau was
restricted. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following table shows the major developments of the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals before the
Second World War.
Year Major developments

1869 Reports of appalling hygiene conditions in the l-tsz in Tai Ping Shan District,
where terminal patients without means have spent their final days, shock the
public. Governor Sir Richard Graves MacDonnell consents to the foundings of
a Chinese medicine hospital
1870 Tung Wah Hospital is founded and provision of free medical services
commences
1873 Tung Wah obtains permission from the government to purchase properties with
surplus funds in the care of the Registrar General, so that more income can be
generated. The shop at 40 Wing Lok Fong (present-day Wing Lok Street) is
acquired for 3,420 taels of silver, thus marking the beginning of Tung Wah’s
acquisition of tenement properties
1874 In the wake of a furious typhoon that hits Hong Kong, Tung Wah assists with
post-disaster work by burying unclaimed remains of victims.
1896 The Tung Wah Hospital is harshly criticised for inadequate anti-plague efforts.
The Report of the Commission to Inquire into the Working and Organisation of
Tung Wah Hospital proposes the introduction of Western medical services and
a permanent Advisory Board
1908 The government enacts the Man Mo Temple Ordinance allowing Tung Wah to
officially take over management of the temple and its properties
1911 Serving the Chinese members of the community, the Kwong Wah Hospital is
founded as the first hospital in Kowloon and the New Territories
1912 Start receiving government subsidy for setting up free schools
1922 The Kwong Wah Hospital sets up a nurse’s training school to train local nurses
1931 Amalgamation of Tung Wah Hospital, Kwong Wah Hospital and Tung Wah
Eastern Hospital into a single entity named ‘Tung Wah Group of Hospitals’
under the management of one Board of Directors
1938 After the establishment of a Medical Committee requested by the government,
the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals receives full government subsidy for its
medical services and is subject to government regulation. This marks the
inclusion of Tung Wah into the government’s institutional framework

Source B
The following extract is adapted from a commentary on the Tung Wah Hospital. .
The hospital became the cultural and social centre of the Chinese community, a place where
Chinese gathered to observe religious occasions. Eager to avoid unfamiliar British law, with its
courts and corrupt clerks, many Chinese preferred to have civil disputes settled by the hospital
committee. The hospital also provided invaluable services to the colonial government by
managing the Chinese population, especially as emigration from Guangdong increased in the
mid-nineteenth century.
(a) As reflected in Source A, identify the relationship between the government and the Tung
Wah Hospital. Explain your answer with reference to Source A. (3 marks)
(b) As reflected in Source B, identify two features of Tung Wah Hospital. Cite relevant clues
from Source B to support your answer. (4 marks)
(c) How did the colonial government achieve effective rule through Chinese organisations?
(8 marks)

Answer
(a) As reflected in Source A, identify the relationship between the government and the Tung
Wah Hospital. [3 marks]
One mark for valid answer and two marks for valid explanation.
Answer:
e.g. - The government relied on the Tung Wah Hospital to manage the Chinese. The
government also gave support and supervision to the Tung Wah Hospital.
Explanation:
e.g. - The government approved the establishment of the Tung Wah Hospital.
- The government monitor the operation of the Tung Wah Hospital. For example,
the government inquired into the anti-plague performance of the Tung Wah
Hospital and gave relevant suggestions. in 1938, the Tung Wah Hospital was
even included into the government’s institutional framework.
- The Tung Wah Hospital received government subsidy for acquisition of
tenement properties and setting up of free schools.
- The government granted the Tung Wah Hospital the right of management in
some of the local affairs such as the management of the Man Mo Temple.
(b) As reflected in Source B, identify two features of Tung Wah Hospital. [4 marks]
One mark for each valid answer and one mark for each valid clue.
Answers:
e.g. - Being a cultural and social centre of the Chinese community (The Tung Wah
Hospital was the place where the Chinese gathered to observe religious
occasions.)
- Settling disputes within the Chinese (The Chinese would have their civil
disputes settled by the hospital committee.)
- Managing the Chinese population (The Tung Wah Hospital managed immense
emigration from Guangdong.)
(c) How did the colonial government achieve effective rule through Chinese organisations?
[8 marks]
[max. 2]


examples. [max. 8]
e.g. - The Tung Wah Hospital provided medical service, education and social
assistance, which helped improve the life of the Chinese and relieve the burden
of the Government in governing the Chinese. (Source A)
- Most of the Chinese did not know English. They were reluctant to seek for
mediation from the government. Hence, the Tung Wah Hospital was responsible
for solving the dispute among the Chinese. (Source B)
- From the mid-19th century, there was immense emigration from Guangdong
whereas the number of government officials was limited and they could not cope
with the heavy loads of Chinese affairs. The Tung Wah Hospital could then
helped the government manage the Chinese population. (Source B and own
knowledge)
- The Tung Wah Hospital was formed by Chinese elites. The government could
manage the Chinese through these elites. (own knowledge)
- The colonial government did not have much understand on Chinese language
and traditional Chinese practices, which impeded their management over the
Chinese. They could achieve more effective management through the Chinese
elites. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is about the experience of Clementi settling the Guangdong-Hong Kong
General Strike.
Clementi firstly delivered a message of peace to Guangdong in a speech made at the University
of Hong Kong. Later, Clementi wrote respectively to Wang Jingwei, President of the Nationalist
Government in Guangzhou, and Wu Chaoshu, Mayor of Guangzhou. A formal proposal of
settling the strike by negotiations was put forward. During 20-25th November, a business
delegation from Guangzhou visited Hong Kong at the invitation of the Chinese merchants in
Hong Kong. The government sent Fletcher, Deputy Colonial Secretary, to warmly receive them.
By using this opportunity, the government also announced that it would like to appoint Chater,
Bemard, Chow Shouson and Robert Kotewall as representatives to go to Guangzhou to
negotiate the settlement of the strike.
Source B
The following passage shows the oppressive measures implemented by Governor MacDonnell on
the Chinese.
Even more convinced than Robinson that Europeans and Chinese should not be treated equally
under the law, MacDonnell introduced a wider registration program for managing the Chinese
population. In 1866, he tried to control all Chinese boats entering and leaving the harbour.
MacDonnell’s most controversial reform was his short-lived plan to end police corruption by
regulating gambling through licensing. Almost all of MacDonnell’s measures led to opposition
from the Chinese community of Hong Kong, with varied results. Some Chinese simply left
Hong Kong after the 1866 registration ordinance, while others resisted by not paying for the
new licenses, but this opposition generally had little effect on government policy. Chinese elites
did, however, succeed in forcing MacDonnell to end his scheme for regulating gambling. In
1871 they argued in a petition that the system had increased corruption, bankruptcy, robbery,
suicide, and the child slavery.

(a) According to Source A, identify and explain the attitude of Clementi in settling the
Guangdong-Hong Kong General Strike. (3 marks)
(b) According to Source B, infer one reason for the varied results of different groups of Chinese
in opposing MacDonnell’s regulation on gambling. (4 marks)
(c) ‘The colonial government needed the power of the Chinese to facilitate rule in Hong Kong.’
Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using your own
knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Identify and explain the attitude of Clementi in settling the Guangdong-Hong Kong
General Strike. [3 marks]
Attitude: Positive
Explanation:
e.g. - Clementi delivered a message of peace to Guangdong in a speech made at the
University of Hong Kong.
- Clementi proposed to settle the strike by negotiation.
- The government sent Fletcher, Deputy Colonial Secretary, to warmly receive the
business delegation from Guangzhou.
(b) Infer one reason for the varied results of different groups of Chinese in opposing
MacDonnell’s regulation on gambling [4 marks]
One mark for each valid answer and three marks for valid explanation.
Answer:
e.g. - Disparity in influence
L1 Vague answer, ineffective in using the Source. [max. 1]

Explanation:
e.g. - Chinese who relied on the gambling industry left Hong Kong or refused to pay
for the new licenses. They had small influence on the policy-making of
MacDonnell as they mainly belonged to the lower-class Chinese community
with slight political influence.
- Chinese elite succeeded in forcing MacDonnell to end his scheme for regulating
gambling. Most of these Chinese elite had great economic strength, high social
status and great influence over the Chinese community. Therefore, the
government needed to take their opinion into consideration to ensure effective
rule over the Chinese.
(c) ‘The colonial government needed the power of the Chinese to facilitate rule in Hong
Kong.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]

[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
e.g. - Clementi actively sought to settle the Guangdong-Hong Kong Strike through
negotiation and eased the discontent of Chinese. (Source A)
- The government appointed representatives with a ratio of half foreigners and
half Chinese (Chater, Bemard, Chow Shouson and Robert Kotewall) to go to
Guangzhou to negotiate the settlement of the strike. (Source A)
- Chinese elite successfully forced MacDonnell to end his scheme for regulating
gambling. (Source B)
- The government absorbed Chinese elite into the Executive and Legislative
Councils: In 1880, Wu Tingfang became the first Chinese unofficial member of
the Legislative Council. In 1926, Chow Shouson became the first Chinese
unofficial member of the Executive Council. (own knowledge)
- The government recognised Heung Yee Kuk which was established in 1926 as a
statutory body in the New Territories. (own knowledge)
- The government entrusted Chinese associations, such as the Tung Wah Group of
Hospitals and the Po Leung Kuk, with social welfare affairs. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is about the implementation of Yong Plan.
Governor Young thought that the democratization in Hong Kong could maintain its rule and
increase the participation of the public in politics in order to turn the local Chinese into the
citizens of British Hong Kong. This helps to stabilize the society after the War and minimize the
influences of nationalism.
Apart from implanting the Young Plan, Young also relaxed the restrictions on the local Chinese
including the abolition of the Peak District Reservation Ordinance so that more Chinese were
allowed to work in the government.
Indeed, the public had expectations towards the plan at first. The New Life Evening Post claimed
that it had interviews over a thousand local Chinese and most of them support the political
reform proposed by the Governor.
However, the passion of the local people to the reform diminished very quickly. The voice of
oppositions started to appear and more often the people were not enthusiastic and indifferent to
the political reform and politics. For them, economic reform was much more important than
political reform. Most of the Hong Kong people cared about their immediate and material needs
like food supply and the effects of inflation.
Source B
The following passage is adapted from Grantham’s commentary on the Young Plan.
Grantham thought that the political problems of Hong Kong were different from the situations of
the British colonies which proposed independence or self-governance after the Second World
War. It was all about the Sino-British diplomatic problems but not the issues of how Hong Kong
would be. In the 1950s, Hong Kong lacked a community of ‘Hong Kong people’. The
consciousness and culture of the Chinese immigrants were the same as their nationals. Grantham
asserted that Hong Kong had no reasons to implement political reforms, independence and self-
governance as the Hong Kong people did not have those demands. He said, ‘they (the Hong
Kong people) preferred the professionals to manage the government affairs and most of the
Chinese in Hong Kong lacked a sense of belonging.

(a) Infer from Source A one aim of the Young Plan. Explain your answer with reference to
Source A. (3 marks)
(b) How did Grantham evaluate the Young Plan? Explain your answer with reference to Source
B. (4 marks)
(c) ‘The cancellation of the Young Plan represented that democratic development was not
practicable in Hong Kong under the British colonial rule.’ Do you agree? Explain your
answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Infer from Source A one aim of the Young Plan. [3 marks]
Answer: To gain support from the local Chinese.
Explanation:
e.g. - Increase the participation of the public in politics in order to turn the local
Chinese into the citizens of British Hong Kong.
- Relaxe the restrictions on the local Chinese including the abolition of the Peak
District Reservation Ordinance.
- More Chinese were allowed to work in the government.
(b) How did Grantham evaluate the Young Plan? [4 marks]
One mark for each valid answer and three marks for valid explanation.
Answer:
e.g. - The Plan was unnecessary.
L1 Vague answer, ineffective in using the Source. [max. 1]

Explanation:
e.g. - Most of the Hong Kong people were immigrants from mainland China. They
regarded themselves as ‘Chinese’ as their consciousness and culture were the
same as their nationals.
- The Chinese living under the colonial rule lacked a sense of belonging.
(c) ‘The cancellation of the Young Plan represented that democratic development was not
practicable in Hong Kong under the British colonial rule.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]

examples. [max. 8]
Agree:
e.g. - A lack of a positive political atmosphere: Hong Kong people were indifferent to
the reforms and politics. They cared about the economic development only to
solve their social and other existing problems. (Source A)
- A lack of identity: There was no ‘Hong Kong’ community in Hong Kong, which
represented that the citizens did not have a sense of belonging. They thought that
they did not need to understand how the politics in Hong Kong would develop.
(Source B)
- Hong Kong was different from other colonies as it was about Sino-British
foreign affairs. (Source A) If the Communist Party ruled over China, China
might reassume the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong. Some elected
members might pledged loyalty to the Communist Party which threatened the
British colonial rule in Hong Kong. (own knowledge)
- The Young Plan had already postponed. The attitude of the government was still
ambiguous so that the parties could not reach a consensus. It had showed that
the government was not determined to promote democratic development. (own
knowledge)
- Whether democratic development initiated upon the will of the government
including the British government and the Governor. For example, the successor
of Governor Young, Alexander Grantham, did not support the Plan. Finally,
Britain and Hong Kong jointly claimed that Hong Kong would not implement
large-scale political reforms in Hong Kong in October 1952. (own knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - The public had expectations towards the plan at first. (Source A)
- The general public thought that economic development should be a prerequisite
of democratic development. When the economy was mature enough, the people
would also be aware of politics. (own knowledge)
- The sense of belonging and awareness of politics would increase when there
were high educational level among the public and social development. (own
knowledge)
- The colonial government had implemented large political reforms like the
establishment of a representative government since 1980s. (own knowledge)
- It took a long time to initiate democratic development progressively so it was
not possible to initiate big reforms immediately. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is about the riots during 1966-1967.
The colonial government had been suspecting the loyalty of Hong Kong people ever since the
establishment of the Republic of China by the Chinese Communist Party in 1949. Surprisingly,
this suspicion diminished because of the riots of 1966 and 1967. Goodstadt, the former Chief
Consultant of the Central Policy Unit, thought that the riots changed the relationship between
the government and the society of Hong Kong. The government recognised Hong Kong people’s
rational behavior in fighting for their rights. ‘During the riots, the government clearly saw how
Hong Kong people were disciplined and politically mature. The business sector realised the
motivated and hard-working workers. During the Guangdong-Hong Kong General Strike, the
majority of the workers still went to work as usual. They insisted on walking for one or two
hours to the workplace even when the public transport were disrupted during the strike. Such
situation relieved the opposition of the business sector on improving the rights of the labour. The
government realised that it had no excuse but to accommodate people’s request when they were
fighting for reasonable rights.
Source B
The following passage shows the political changes of Hong Kong after the 1967 Riots.
The 1967 Riots had made it abundantly clear that the Government in the 1950s and 1960s, while
it had gone to great lengths to listen to Chinese elite groups, was not sufficiently in contact with
the grassroots. It was agreed that something had to be done about this. What was done was to try
and build up systems in which the Government could hear what ordinary grassroots people were
thinking and saying and doing. … Another new development which was introduced into Hong
Kong after the 1967 Riots was the appointment of a broader range of people to Government
consultative committees, not only elite businessmen, elite social workers or elite educationalists,
but people from the grassroots - in many cases Mutual Aid Committee Chairmen or social
leaders of such kind. They showed their wisdom and rationality when they discussed issues with
the City district Officer. They proved their individual value. Thus, some of them started to be
appointed as members of the Legislative Council in the mid-1970s.

(a) How did the 1967 Riots facilitate the improvement of the labour rights? Explain your answer
with reference to Source A. (4 marks)
(b) Infer from Source B one change in the attitude of people from the grassroots and the
government after the 1967 Riots. Explain your answer with reference to the clues in Source
B. (3 marks)
(c) What were the influences of the 1967 Riots on the governing system of the Hong Kong
government? Explain your answer with references to Sources A and B, and using your own

Answer
(a) How did the 1967 Riots facilitate the improvement of the labour rights? [4 marks]
L1 Vague argument with ineffective use of the Source. [max. 2]

L2 Clear argument with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - During the 1967 riots, the workers still went to work although the leftists
launched a strike. Thus, the opposition of the business sector on labour reforms
diminished.
- During the 1967 riots, Hong Kong people showed how they were disciplined
and politically mature. The Hong Kong government had no excuse to decline the
request of Hong Kong people to fight for reasonable rights.
(b) Infer from Source B one change in the attitude of people from the grassroots and the
government after the 1967 Riots. [4 marks]
Change: From limited exchange to more frequent communication and contact.
Explanation:
e.g. - During the 1950s and 1960s, the government usually listened to the opinions of
the Chinese elites but seldom communicated with the people from the
grassroots.
- After the 1967 Riots, the government appointed people from the grassroots to
join the Government consultative committees. Opinions of the Chinese were
even heard by them being appointed as the members of the Legislative Council
in the mid-1970s.
(c) What were the influences of the 1967 Riots on the governing system of the Hong Kong
government? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
e.g. - The 1967 riots eliminated the government’s suspicion on Hong Kong people.

The government started to take serious consideration on labour problems and

recognise the legitimacy of Hong Kong people to fight for their rights. (Source
A)
- The government strengthened the communication with the people from the
grassroots by appointing them to be the members of Government consultative
committees. (Source B)
- The government further absorbed the grassroots into the Legislative Council to
enhance their influence on policy-making. (own knowledge)
- The 1967 riots motivated the government to launch social reforms. The
government launched series of reforms in areas of culture, education, anti-
corruption and social welfare to improve people’s life. For example, 9-year free
and compulsory schooling was introduced. The independent Commission
Against Corruption (ICAC) was established to fight corruption. The Ten-Year
Housing Programme and the Home Ownership Scheme was introduced. (own
knowledge)
- The government created more sufficient channels for communication. In 1968,
the City District Office Scheme was introduced. In 1969, the Secretariat for
Home Affairs was established to gather public opinion and explain government
policies to the public. (own knowledge)
- The government enhanced the political status of the Chinese by absorbing more
Chinese into the Legislative Council and Executive Council. The using of
Chinese language was permitted in the Legislative Council. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is adapted from a speech made by Henry Hopkinson, Minister of State or
Colonial Affairs of Britain, on the colonial policy in 1954.
You cannot force people to change their social habits by legislation and I am certain that race
relations cannot be improved by the simple act of placing edicts on the statute book. They can
only be improved by education, by the good example of those who work to improve them and by
the removal of conditions which exacerbate racial difference… What we stand most in need of is
the consistent support and encouragement of men of goodwill. We ourselves consider that our
relations with those of Her Majesty’s subjects who lives overseas under Her sovereignty are just
as much within our domestic jurisdiction, and we would be glad to see this equally admitted.
Source B
The following passage describes the impact of the riots during 1966-1967.
With the introduction of the City District Office Scheme and the reorganisation of the Secretariat
for Chinese Affairs into the Secretariat for Home Affairs, the government publicly signalled a
shift in its focus and expanded the scope of what it saw as essential to good governance. The era
when the colonial administration paid more attention to the tiny expatriate community than to
the huge local Chinese community formally ended… What really changed was that the
government now focused its attention primarily on the vastly bigger local Chinese community,
particularly when planning and organising government services.
The rally of the local Chinese to the colonial government during the confrontation marked a
turning point in the community’s attitude. In coming out to support the government publicly,
they expected it to look after their welfare. … To secure its own legitimacy it would need to and
be seen to be responsive to the views of the local community.
(a) What was the feature of the British colonial policy? Support your answer with two clues
from Source A. (3 marks)
(b) According to Source B, identify one change in the attitude of the Hong Kong government
towards the Chinese. Explain your answer with reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) ‘After the Second World War, the change in the attitude of the Hong Kong government
towards the Chinese was due to internal pressure in Hong Kong.’ Do you agree? Explain
your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) What was the feature of the British colonial policy? [3 marks]
L1 Vague answer and ineffective use of relevant clues from the Source. [max. 1]
L2 Clear answer, with effective use of relevant clues from the Source. [max. 3]
Feature: Actively improving the relations with the people in its colonies
Clues:
e.g. - Britain thought that it could not force people to change their habits by
legislation.
- Britain suggested improving race relations by education, by the good example of
those who worked to improve them and by the removal of conditions which
worsened racial difference.
- Britain considered their relations with the people in its colonies as much within
its domestic jurisdiction.
(b) One change in the attitude of the Hong Kong government towards the Chinese [3 marks]
Change: The Hong Kong government had paid more attention to the local Chinese
community instead of foreign people.
Explanation:
e.g. - The government introduced the City District Office Scheme and reorganised the
Secretariat for Chinese Affairs into the Secretariat for Home Affairs.
- The government focused on the local Chinese community when it planned and
organised government services.
(c) ‘After the Second World War, the change in the attitude of the Hong Kong government
towards the Chinese was due to internal pressure in Hong Kong.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]

examples. [max. 8]
Agree:
e.g. - During the 1966-1967 riots, the local Chinese community supported the colonial
government and expected it to look after their welfare. The government thus
changed its attitude towards the Chinese and became more responsive to their
views in order to secure its own legitimacy. (Source A)
- Since the 1970s, Chinese entrepreneurs became more powerful. A middle class
gradually took shape. The government needed to absorb these groups of Chinese
and raised their status. (own knowledge)
- The population in Hong Kong increased rapidly after the Second World War. In
order to maintain effective rule, the government had to introduce more housing
and social welfare policies for the Chinese. (own knowledge)
- The education level of the Chinese had increased. More people demanded the
right to political participation. (own knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - Britain changed its colonial policy. Efforts were put to improve race relations
and the people in its overseas colonies were not regarded as inferior. (Source A)
- Much weakened by the Second World War, Britain found it difficult to rule over
its large colonial empire. A wave of decolonisation also swept across the world.
In order to keep Hong Kong as its colony, Britain introduced a series of policies
to improve its relations with the Chinese. (own knowledge)
- After the Second World War, China became a communist country. In order to
stop the spread of communism to Hong Kong, the Hong Kong government
started to adjust its rule, especially in endeavoring to increase a sense of
belonging among Hong Kong people and their support for British governance by
raising their status. (own knowledge)
- In 1984, China and Britain signed the Sino-British Joint Declaration which
marked the beginning of the transitional period for Hong Kong’s return to the
mainland. Thus, the government furthered allowed the Chinese to participate in
the representative government and carried out localisation in the civil service.
(own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is an opinion on the consultation system established in the 1960s. .
As a centralized authoritarian state, the functions of the consultative system were limited in
Hong Kong. Although the society and pressure groups might be against to the decisions made by
the government in the public consultations and asked for amendments, the government rarely
revised or even simply went on.
It was undeniable that the advisory councils would reflect and communicate the public opinion.
On the other hand, it was also mere window dressing for the government. Almost all the
committees were appointed by the government. Most of the meetings were held by the
government officials and discussed according to the documents prepared by the government
while the minutes were kept confidential. In reality, the current ‘consultative democracy’ was not
‘participative democracy’. However, still, the consultative system in Hong Kong could
communicate with the public, advocate and explain the government policies. It could reduce the
dissatisfaction and opposition towards the policies. Meanwhile, some of the Hong Kong people
gained the opportunity and authority to participate in the public affairs. In some extent, it could
offset the inadequacy of democracy in Hong Kong and provide favourable political culture and
environment for democratisation under the principle of Hong Kong people administering Hong
Kong.
Source B
The following is about the administrative effectiveness of the colonial government.
In order to maintain effective governance in Hong Kong, the colonial government practiced
‘administrative absorption of politics’. The elites from different sectors especially for the famous
entrepreneurs and businessmen were absorbed to the government organisations and advisory
structure like advisory committees, the Legislative Council, the Executive Council and Urban
Council. Such means also applied after the riots in 1967 when the government introduced the
City District Office Scheme to the grassroots. The decision-making process had become open
and participative, and formed a government-business collusion.

(a) Infer from Source A two limitations of the consultation system. Explain your answer with
reference to Source A. (4 marks)
(b) Infer from Sources A and B one purpose of the administrative reforms starting from the
1960s? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B. (3 marks)
(c) ‘The constitutional development from the 1960s to 1970s in Hong Kong had a great
influence to democratisation in Hong Kong.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with
reference to Sources A and B, and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Infer from Source A two limitations of the consultation system. [4 marks]
e.g. - The consultation system seldom affected the decisions of the government.
(Although the society and pressure groups might be against to the decisions
made by the government in the public consultations, the government rarely
revised or simply went on. / Almost all the committees were appointed by the
government.)
- The consultation system was led by the government. (Most of the meetings were
held by the government officials and discussed according to the documents
prepared by the government while the minutes were kept confidential.)
(b) Infer from Sources A and B one purpose of the administrative reforms starting from the
1960s. [3 marks]
Purpose: To gain support from the Hong Kong citizens
Explanation:
e.g. - To communicate with the public, advocate and explain the government policies.
It could reduce the dissatisfaction and opposition towards the policies and some
of the Hong Kong people gained the opportunity and authority to participate in
the public affairs. (Source A)
- Co-opted the famous people in society so that the decision-making process
could become open and participative, and formed a government-business
collusion. (Source B)
(c) ‘The constitutional development from the 1960s to 1970s in Hong Kong had a great
influence to democratisation in Hong Kong.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]

examples. [max. 8]
e.g. - The function of the consultative system was limited. The government rarely
revised or simply went on even it faced the oppositions from the society and
pressure groups. (Source A)
- Almost all the committees were appointed by the government and they were
supported by the government officials. The current ‘consultative democracy’
was not ‘participative democracy’. (Source A)
- The establishment of the consultative system, appointment of members from the
community to participate in the public affairs and the expansion of the
Secretariat for Chinese Affairs were only a formal institutional change. In fact,
the government owned the final decision-making power and the grassroots were
not delegated democratic power. (own knowledge)
- A medium for government-business collusion. (Source B)
- The establishment of a representative government, the signature of the Sino-
British Joint Declaration and the emergence of political groups started to
promote the democratization only from the 1980s. (own knowledge)
- The constitutional development from 1960s to 1970s were very slow. The
government mainly focused on cultural, social and welfare policies to comfort
the society to alleviate the social problems instead of political reforms. (own
knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is adapted from a book on Hong Kong history regarding the 1967 Riots.
Albeit victory in the 1967 Riots, the British government could yet gain wholehearted support
from Hong Kong people. The British government, despite having successfully suppressed the
leftists, still had a long way to go in dealing with the long-term social conflicts which surfaced
within the Hong Kong society. While Hong Kong people did not side with the leftists, they were
not enthusiastic about the British government as well and maintained a ‘wait and see’ attitude.
‘People usually sit on the fence in labour disputes,’ said Elizabeth Sinn, a Hong Kong historian.
‘Some of them even regarded—and enjoyed—the Riots as a counterstrike to teach the British
government a lesson for bossing Hong Kong people around over the years.’ Lau Siu-kai, the
head of the Central Policy Unit, also pointed out that people’s recognition for anti-British and
anti-colonial slogans was understandable at a time dominated by social conflicts, British
oppressive rule, and discriminatory treatment towards the Chinese. ‘While most of rioters were
leftists, many citizens appreciated their actions in defending public interest,’ said Lau.
‘Resonating with the anti-British sentiment, they even gloated over the humiliation the colonial
government and the superior Chinese had suffered at the hands of the leftists.’
Source B
The following table shows the expenditure of the British government over four financial years in
1967-1971 under different categories.
1967-1968 1968-1969 1969-1970 1970-1971

Education 254,052 279,315 326,816 397,996
Universities 35,235 65,888 63,406 93,588
Social subsidies 12,965 16,914 19,205 23,206
Healthcare 46,341 52,458 57,732 63,147
Social welfare 7,814 9,350 11,069 12,425
(Unit: thousand Hong Kong dollars)
(a) Identify from Source A one fundamental problem of the Hong Kong society. Explain your
answer with reference to Source A. (3 marks)
(b) Describe one trend in the development of policymaking in 1967-1971 in Hong Kong as
reflected in Source B. Explain your answer with reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) ‘Despite implementing multiple policies beneficial to the people after the Second World War,
the British government was passive in initiating them.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer
with reference to Sources A and B, and using your own knowledge. (9 marks)

Answer
(a) Identify from Source A one fundamental problem of the Hong Kong society. [3 marks]
Answer:
e.g. - The British government lacked recognition.
Explanation:
e.g. - Hong Kong people were not enthusiastic about the British government.
- Many Hong Kong people gave credit to the anti-British and anti-colonial
slogans of the leftists.
- Some Hong Kong people reckoned that the leftists, attacking the British
government, was teaching the British government a lesson.
(b) Describe one trend in the development of policymaking in 1967-1971 in Hong Kong as
reflected in Source B. [3 marks]
Trend:
e.g. - Rising concern over social and welfare development.
Explanation:
e.g. - Expenditure in different social categories all witnessed increase over the four
financial years.
- Increase occurred in both educational aspects (e.g. education and universities)
and welfare aspects (e.g. social subsidies, healthcare, social welfare), indicating
that the British government had catered for different social needs.
(c) ‘Despite implementing multiple policies beneficial to the people after the Second World
War, the British government was passive in initiating them.’ Do you agree? [9 marks]
[max. 3]
examples. [max. 9]

1940s-1950s:
e.g. - As the British government lost its recognition among Hong Kong people having
failed to defeat the Japanese troops, Governor Young proposed the Young Plan
to carry out political reform after restoring the British rule. (own knowledge)
- Despite eventual failure, it was still considered as an important attempt of the
British government to regain trust among Chinese community. (own knowledge)
1960s-1970s:
e.g. - The 1967 Riots served as a warning to the British governance as it reflected the
lack of recognition of the British government among Chinese community with
its legitimacy challenged by the leftists. (Source A)
- Therefore, after the 1967 Riots, the government increased expenditure in
different social categories in order to improve the living quality of Hong Kong
people and ease their resentment. (Source B)
- While the British government introduced different housing programmes to
tackle the housing problem resulted from large population growth, it also
localised the civil service in order to better meet the demand of Chinese
community. (own knowledge)
1980s-1990s:
e.g. - After the signing of the Sino-British Joint Declaration, the transitional period for
Hong Kong’s return to the mainland began. Britain sped up democratization and
introduced representative government in Hong Kong in response in order to
preserve the existing systems and values in Hong Kong after 1997, as well as its
influence in Hong Kong. (own knowledge)
- From the 1980s onwards, the government eagerly introduced representative
government and gradually established a three-tier structure of councils,
including the Legislative Council, the Urban Council and the District Boards, in
which elections were held. (own knowledge)
* Marks will be awarded to answers that hold the opposite view and are presented
logically, but they should not be awarded more than 6 marks.

Source A
The following extract is adapted from an article about implementation of ‘administrative
absorption politics model’ by the Hong Kong government.
Administrative absorption politics model refers to a process, during which the political strength,
represented by the elite or elite groups in the society, is absorbed into executive decision-making
structure. … The non-British elite, especially the Chinese elite, was absorbed into the executive
decision-making structure one by one. Thus, politicians were seldom in confrontation with this
administrative system. Even if there were such politicians, their political influence was mostly
weak and powerless.
Source B
The following table shows the background of nine unofficial members in the Legislative Council
in 1929.
Name Background
Sir Henry Spencer Berkeley Lawyer

John Owen Hughes Merchant
Jose Braga Merchant
Benjamin Beith Merchant
Arthur Haynes Merchant
William Shenton Lawyer
Chow Shouson Merchant
Robert Hormuskotewall Merchant
Chau Rsun-nin Lawyer

Source C
The following table shows the background of some Chinese appointed members in the Legislative
Council in the 1980s.
Member Occupation Public service

Director of a global Chairman of the Hong Kong
Lee Peng-fei
company Productivity Council
Head of the Personal
Chairman of the Committee on
Development and
Fan Hsu Lai-tai the Promotion of Civic
Counseling Centre for a
Education
territory institution
Member of the Labour Advisory
Chan Kam-chuen Union leader
Board
Board of director of the
Chan Yau-sum District Councillor
Futures Exchange Ltd.
Member of the Construction
Ho Sing-tin Architect
Advisory Board
John Swaine Lawyer Justices of the Peace
Member of the Basic Law
Poon Chung-Kwong Professor
Consultative Committee
(a) With reference to Source A, identify one reason why the Hong Kong government absorbed
the Chinese elite into the executive decision-making structure. (2 marks)
(b) Does the description of Source A apply to the Legislative Council in the early 20th century?
Explain your answer with reference to Source and B. (3 marks)
(c) Using two clues in Source C, identify the two characteristics of the background of
Legislative Councillors in the 1980s. (4 marks)
(d) Do you think that Source A can also be used to describe the political environment of Hong
Kong by the 1980s? Explain your answer with reference to Source C, and using your own

Answer
(a) One reason why the Hong Kong government absorbed the Chinese elite into the executive
decision-making structure. [2 marks]
One mark for valid answer and one mark for valid explanation.
Answer:
e.g. - To facilitate governance.
Explanation:
e.g. - To make the influential Chinese elite become parts of the executive decision-
making structure in order to reduce social resistance against the government.
(b) Does the description of Source A apply to the Legislative Council in the early 20th century
[3 marks]
L1 Attempt to justify that the description of Source A apply to the Legislative Council in
the early 20th century, ineffective in using the Source. [max. 1]
L2 Justify that the description of Source A apply to the Legislative Council in the early
20th century, effective in using the Source. [max. 3]
Explanation:
e.g. - Source B shows that most of the Chinese unofficial members in the Legislative
Council were elites, such as lawyers and merchants. This reflects the assertion
that the administrative absorption politics model absorbed the Chinese elite, as
described in Source A, was appropriate.
(c) Using two clues in Source C, identify the two characteristics of the background of
Legislative Councillors in the 1980s. [4 marks]
e.g. - Diverse backgrounds (Besides merchants and lawyers, many professionals from
different fields also entered the Legislative Council.)
- Active participation in public services (They had served as members of public
organisations, leaders of trade unions and District Councillors.)
(d) Do you think that Source A can also be used to describe the political environment of Hong

Kong by the 1980s? [7 marks]
L1 Vague answer, unable to effectively refer to the Source and own knowledge, and/or
with little attention to the usability of Source A. [max. 2]
L2 Merely refers to the Source or own knowledge, and/or with inadequate treatment of
the usability of Source A. [max. 4]
L3 Refers to both the Source and own knowledge, with adequate treatment of the usability
of Source A. [max. 7]
Applicable:
e.g. - The government continued to appoint the Chinese elite as Legislative
Councillors. Besides merchants and lawyers, professionals from different
industries were also absorbed into the executive decision-making structure.
(Source C)
- All members of the Executive Council were still appointed by the Governor.
Therefore, the Executive Council was still the target of the administrative
absorption politics model implemented by the government. (own knowledge)
Inapplicable:
e.g. - The Chinese elite started organising pressure groups, such as the Hong Kong
Christian Industrial Committee, the Hong Kong Professional Teachers’ Union,
etc. This shows that not all the Chinese elite were absorbed by the government.
(own knowledge)
- Pressure groups could affect the policy-making of the government. Therefore,
the view that their political influence was mostly weak and powerless was not
applicable. (own knowledge)
- As the number of elected seats in the councils and the number of Chinese senior
officials increased, the Chinese did not depend on the absorption by the
government in order to get into the political system of the government. (own
knowledge)

Source A
The following diagram shows the number of Chinese members in the Urban, Executive and
Legislative Councils during the period 1936-1978.
Source B
The following table shows the proportion of Chinese to foreign high-ranking officials in the
government of Hong Kong during the period 1960-1980.
January 1960 January 1970 January 1980

Chinese Chinese Chinese
Chinese Foreigner Chinese Foreigner Chinese Foreigner
(in %) (in %) (in %)
Head Officer 16 148 9.7 62 262 19.0 252 391 39.2

Administrative
7 65 9.7 40 71 36.0 129 134 49.0
Officer
Sergeant and
267 410 39.4 573 551 50.9 1,055 874 54.7
inspector

(a) With reference to Source A, identify one trend in the changing number of Chinese members
in the Urban, Executive and Legislative Councils. (3 marks)
(b) Cite two clues from Source B, and explain how the clues you cite reflect that the local
Chinese had growing influence in the government during the period 1960-1980. (4 marks)
(c) ‘As a factor in determining the governance of the Hong Kong government, the local Chinese
became more and more important.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference to
Sources G and H and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Trend in the changing number of Chinese members in the Urban, Executive and Legislative
Councils [3 marks]
Answer:
e.g. - The number of Chinese members in the Urban, Executive and Legislative
Councils increased gradually.
Explanation:
Councils increased gradually, especially in the Urban and Legislative Councils.
The number of Chinese members in both councils increased from fewer than 5
to around 20.
(b) Cite two clues from Source B, and explain how the clues you cite reflect that the local
Chinese had growing influence in the government during the period 1960-1980. [4 marks]

Clear answer, able to cite one clue with effective use of the Source only.
L2 Clear answer, able to cite two clues with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - The number of Chinese officials gradually rose to match that of the foreigners.
(The proportion of Chinese to foreign high-ranking officials other than chief
officers kept growing.)
- The local Chinese could determine important decisions. (The number of Chinese
head officers had a significant increase.)
(c) ‘As a factor in determining the governance of the Hong Kong government, the local
Chinese became more and more important.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Agree:

Councils increased gradually. (Source A)
- The increase of Chinese members in the Legislative Council was the most
significant among the three Councils. This indicated that the Chinese had
growing influence in the legislation process. (Source A)
- The number of Chinese officials gradually rose to match that of the foreigners.
This showed that the Chinese gradually became an important component in the
government. (Source B)
- The number of Chinese head officers had a significant increase. This shows that
local Chinese could determine important decisions. (Source B)
- From the 1980 s onwards, the government eagerly introduced representative
government and gradually established a three-tier structure of councils,
including the Legislative Council, the Urban Council and the District Boards, in
which elections were held. (own knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - Among the head officers, the number of foreign officers was still higher than
that of the Chinese officers. The former still dominated the process of decision-
making. (Source B)
- The Governor was still appointed by the British government. Political parties in
Hong Kong had no chance to hold power. (own knowledge)
- Local Chinese in Hong Kong were not given the chance to determine the future
of Hong Kong in the 1980s. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is about the administrative model during Hong Kong colonial period.
Typically, Hong Kong had been depicted as an administrative state in the colonial era, whereby
politics was dominated by the bureaucrats and there was no room for elections and party
politics. No matter how the bureaucrats implemented reforms, opened the society and provided
welfare, the power was still centralized to the authoritarian government. But it was a great
opportunity for proposing a constitutional reform during the Sino-British talks and the
discussion of handover in 1997.
Source B
The following is about the development of the Legislative Council in the 1990s.
The emergence of elections and parties put the end of the era of ‘consensus politics’ as the
government could no longer control the Legislative Council within the political system. After
1991, the Democratic Party became a strong opposition power in the Legislative Council. It
promoted institutional changes so that the Legislative Council could exert greater influences on
the policy-making. It became more independent of the Executive branches. The policy-making
process would be more transparent by monitoring the work of the government. Before 1991, the
Legislative Council was presided by the Governor of Hong Kong. He had the power to set the
agenda and dominate the meeting. Therefore, the Democratic Party including Martin Lee Chu-
ming demanded for electing the president of the Legislative Council among the members
themselves before 1989 to increase the autonomy of the Council. After the election held in 1991,
Sir John Joseph Swaine was appointed as the vice-president and it was believed that he would be
non-partisan in the meetings. Although the Governor was still the president in law, he would not
preside the meetings. It allowed the Council to be operationally independent of the government.
(a) According to Source A, infer the nature of the governance of the Hong Kong colonial
government. Explain your answer with reference to Source A. (3 marks)
(b) According to Source B, identify two major changes for the Legislative Council in 1991.
Explain your answer with reference to Source B. (4 marks)
(c) ‘The Sino-British negotiations changed the political structure in Hong Kong.’ Do you agree?

(8 marks)
Answer
(a) According to Source A, infer the nature of the governance of the Hong Kong colonial
government. [3 marks]
Answer:
e.g. - Authoritarian
Clues:
e.g. - Ruled as an administrative state whereby politics was dominated by the
bureaucrats. No matter how the bureaucrats implemented reforms, opened the
society and provided welfare, the power was still centralized to the authoritarian
government.
- Non-elected government. There was no room for elections, party politics and
opposition voices with a great interest of the government to consolidate its rule.
(b) According to Source B, identify two major changes for the Legislative Council in 1991.
[4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify one change only or ineffective in using the Source.
[max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify two changes with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - The introduction of the electoral system and the emergence of the political
groups such as the Democratic Party had made the Legislative Council more
influential during the policy-making process.
- The Governor would not preside the meetings anymore so that the Legislative
Council was more operationally independent of the government
(c) ‘The Sino-British negotiations changed the political structure in Hong Kong.’ Do you
agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]

Agree:
e.g. - Hong Kong would return to China in 1997. Therefore, the government structure
and policies should be changed accordingly with the end of the colonial rule.
(Source A)
- The Governor had been less important than before as he did not preside the
meetings in the Legislative Council anymore. (Source B)
- The emergence of pressure groups and political parties helped to promote the
institutional reforms and the changes in the Legislative Council. (Source B)
- After signing the Joint Declaration, the government started to introduce indirect
elections in 1985. 24 unofficial members were elected and the number of
appointed members decreased. In 1991, direct elections was held and all 60
members were elected by the Election Committee, functional constituencies and
the public. (own knowledge)
- The British government hoped to speed up democratization when the
transitional period began, which pushed Governor Patten’s institutional reform.
(own knowledge)
- The citizens concerned about the future of Hong Kong and their demands for
political changes increased also. (own knowledge)
- In order to achieve political modernization, the representative system was
promoted. (own knowledge)
- To complete the transfer of sovereignty, more and more Chinese took up the
positions of directorate officers in the government due to the continuous
localization in the civil service. (own knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - The ruling power was still centralized in the non-elected government. (Source
A)
- The size and organisation of the political groups were relatively small and they
could not exert a great influence to governance. (Source B)
- The Governor was appointed by the British government and the political groups
did not have the power the rule the government. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following cartoon is adapted from a Hong Kong newspaper published in 1984. The Sino-
British Joint Declaration was just signed.
Source B
The following table shows the composition of the Legislative Council during 1983-1995.
Elected members
Official Unofficial From From From Total
Year
members members electoral functional direct number
college constituencies election
1983 29 29 0 0 0 58
1984 29 32 0 0 0 61
1985 11 22 12 12 0 57
1988 11 22 12 14 0 59
1991 3 17 0 21 18 59
1995 0 0 10 30 20 60

Source C
The following passage shows reaction of Hong Kong’s society on the signing of the Sino-British
Joint Declaration
For the PRC government, the Joint Declaration was a way to prepare Hong Kong for
reunification as smoothly as possible and to assure Hong Kong people that their way of life
would not change. Still many people in Hong Kong were frustrated, and they resented the way
that the negotiations had been conducted, without their having any say in the process. … This
sense of frustration and resentment helps explain the blossoming of new political groups in the
early 1980s, such as the Hong Kong Prospect Institute, the New Hong Kong Society, Meeting
Point, the Hong Kong Forum, the Hong Kong Affairs Society, the Hong Kong People’s
Association, the Association for Democracy and Justice, and the Hong Kong Policy Viewers. …
Strongly committed to nationalism, democracy, and welfare capitalism, these groups used legal
channels such as public seminars, news conferences, and position papers to broadcast their goals.
(a) According to Source A, what was the cartoonist’ view on the signing of the Sino-British
Joint Declaration? (3 marks)
(b) According to Source B, identify two changes in the composition of the Legislative Council
after the signing of the Sino-British Joint Declaration. Explain your answer with reference to
Source B. (4 marks)
(c) ‘Hong Kong enjoyed an increasing political democartisation during the transitional period of
the Handover (1984-1997).’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with references to Source B
and C, and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) What was the cartoonist’ view on the signing of the Sino-British Joint Declaration?
[3 marks]
L1 Vague answer, unable to effectively refer to the Source. [max. 1]
L2 Clear answer, able to effectively refer to the Source. [max. 3]
View:
e.g. - Hong Kong could only adhere to decision of Handover made by Britain and
China without having their say in the signing of the Sino-British Joint
Declaration.
Clues:
e.g. - Representing Hong Kong, the Bride’s eyes are covered by her headband. During
the traditional Chinese wedding ceremony, she bows to her parents, who
represents Deng Xiaoping and Margret Thatcher. The groom is represented by
the scroll entitled ‘Joint Declaration’. It implies that the Bride only adheres to
the will of her parents to accept this blind marriage.
(b) Identify two changes in the composition of the Legislative Council after the signing of the
Sino-British Joint Declaration. [4 marks]
[max. 2]
e.g. - The seats of official or unofficial members were diminishing.

- Election was introduced. Elected members were increasing.
(c) ‘Hong Kong enjoyed an increasing political democratisation during the transitional period
of the Handover (1984-1997).’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Agree:
e.g. - The composition of the Legislative Council was democratised by introducing

election. In 1985, members were indirectly elected by Electoral College and

functional constituencies. In 1991, the first geographical direct election was
introduced. (Source B)
- The emergence of political parties helped speed up democratisation in Hong
Kong. There was a surge of political groups in the 1980s such as the Hong Kong
Prospect Institute, the New Hong Kong Society, Meeting Point, etc. (Source C)
The members of these groups got into the Legislative Council through elections.
During election campaigns, these groups were dedicated in mobilising the public
to participate in local politics. Gradually, they developed into political parties
and brought the public opinions into the Legislative Council. (own knowledge)
- The establishment of a representative government reached the district level to
facilitate the democratisation of the political system in Hong Kong. For
example, all District Board members were elected except the ex-offcio
members. (own knowledge)
- The composition of the Urban Council and Regional Council was also
democratised. In 1986, the Regional Council was established with over half of
the members elected from geographical direct election. In 1995, appointed seats
in the Urban and Regional Council were cancelled, directly-elected seats surged.
(own knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - Up to 1995, only one-third of the members was elected through direct election
in the Legislative Council. The remaining were all indirectly-elected members.
They had limitations in representing the public. (Source B)
- During the transitional period of the Handover, the Governor was still appointed
by the British government. The local political partied did not hold real political
power. (own knowledge).

Source A
The following passage is about the political reforms in Hong Kong during the 1990s.
Given how long and hard the British had argued against political reform in Hong Kong, many
critics – and not just in the PRC government – argued that Patten arrived in Hong Kong with a
mandate from the British government to engineer an honourable withdrawal from Hong Kong,
to curb anti-British feeling stemming from the uncertainty after the Tiananmen Square
Massacre, and to help maintain British influence after 1997. But Patten’s proposed reforms also
reflected the desires of many liberal politicians in Hong Kong. In May 1992, Martin Lee and
Yeung Sum, chairman and vice chairman of the United Democrats, went to Britain, where they
met with Prime Minister John Major and governor-designate Pattern to discuss the possibility of
increasing the number of directly elected seats in the 1995 election [of the Legislative Council].
As Patten put it, he was trying to work within the ‘grey areas’ in the Basic Law, giving Hong
Kong people as much control over their own affairs as possible while ensuring certainty about
Hong Kong’s post-1997 future. ‘The reality,’ argues Leo Goodstadt, ‘was that, by the late 1990s,
it was obvious that without an expansion of the public’s participation in the process of
government, the credibility of Hong Kong’s political institutions could not be maintained and
there would be a crisis of governability.’
Source B
The following British cartoon was published on the eve of the handover of Hong Kong.

(a) According to Source A, identify two difficulties Hong Kong government faced in carrying
out political reforms before the handover? Explain your answer with reference to Source A.
(4 marks)
(b) According to Source B, what was the cartoonist’s attitude towards the prospect of Hong
Kong after the handover? Explain your answer with reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) Why did the Hong Kong government introduce political reforms during the period 1980-
1997? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using your own

Answer
(a) Identify two difficulties Hong Kong government faced in carrying out political reforms
before the handover. [4 marks]
[max. 2]
e.g. - The political reforms introduced by the Hong Kong government was criticised
by the PRC government.
- Hong Kong had entered the transitional period for the return to the mainland.
Reforms carried out by the government could not infringe the Basic Law.
Therefore, it could only introduce reforms to make the government more
democratic within the ‘grey areas’ in the Basic Law.
(b) What was the cartoonist’s attitude towards the prospect of Hong Kong after the handover?
[3 marks]
Attitude:
e.g. - Pessimistic
Clues:
e.g. - In the cartoon, the woman representing ‘democracy’ is bound between the high
rises. Wearing a cap with the symbol of the Communist Party, the giant gorilla is
going to smash the woman and the high rises to pieces. The cartoonist thought
that Hong Kong will lose democracy after being returned to China.
(c) Why did the Hong Kong government introduce political reforms during the period 1980-
1997? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]

Sources:
e.g. - Britain hoped to engineer an honourable withdrawal from Hong Kong and
maintain British influence after 1997. (Source A)
- The Tiananmen Square Massacre in China made Hong Kong people feel
uncertain about the handover. Therefore, the government introduced political
reforms to pacify the Hong Kong people and ensure certainty about Hong
Kong’s post-1997 future. (Source A)
- The credibility of Hong Kong’s political institutions could not be maintained
and there would be a crisis of governability. (Source A)
- The political groups in Hong Kong demanded a more democratic government.
Martin Lee and Yeung Sum of the United Democrats went to Britain to discuss
the possibility of increasing the number of directly elected seats in the
Legislative Council. (Source A)
- There were common concerns that democracy will be diminished in Hong Kong
after its return to China. The government thus established a representative
government and laid the foundation of democracy for Hong Kong. (Source B)
Own knowledge:
e.g. - In the 1980s, Hong Kong had a younger generation with higher education level.
They could understand more easily what a representative government was.
- In the 1980s, the economic development in Hong Kong was rapid. The middle
class became more powerful and demanded an electoral system.
- The Sino-British Joint Declaration stated that the Chief Executive and the
legislature would be elected after 1997. Therefore, the government began to
establish a representative government in order to nurture political talents.

Source A
The following passage is about the development of the ICAC.
The ICAC now faced another problem. So many police officers were arrested that police morale
plummeted, and lower-ranking officers complained that the ICAC was using convicted
policemen and other criminals to obtain evidence. In October 1977, several thousand police
officers marched on the police commissioner’s office. Some of the protesting officers then
marched on the ICAC headquarters, breaking into the building and injuring several ICAC
officers. Fearing that the police might go on strike and plunge the colony into anarchy, on
November 5 MacLehose issued a partial amnesty for corruption committed before January 1,
1977, except for extremely grave cases. Although many people were shocked and dismayed that
the governor would yield, there would have been no way to replace Hong Kong’s large police
force on such short notice without calling in the military. As MacLehose later recalled, ‘it would
have been feasible to go on prosecuting people for offences committed long ago, but the risk of
such prosecutions had resulted in an alliance between the formerly corrupt and the presently
corrupt which was the heart of the near mutiny of the police. The amnesty split off these two
rather different elements and simplified the ICAC’s ability to press on with the prosecution of
current corruption.’
Source B
The following extract is adapted from a commentary on the 40th anniversary of the ICAC.
The success of the ICAC linked closely with the change of the whole society. Hong Kong started
to prosper in 1970. The government’s revenue increased and it got hold of abundant resources. It
was only when the government had a stable financial status could it maintain probity with high
salary. MacLehose became Hong Kong’s Governor in 1971. Being the most capable Governor in
Hong Kong’s colonial history, he was respected by Hong Kong people. During his term of
office, he made achievements including building a large number of public housing, providing
and expanding free education, building cross-harbour tunnels and MTR, and creating a safety net
for the lower-class by providing them with social welfare; he also carried out reforms in areas
including labour protection, localisation in the civil service and consultation system. By all these
constructions, reforms and general economic prosperity, people’s life was greatly improved and
economic achievements were shared. Thus, conflicts were eased and the society became more
reasonable. It was only in such an environment could the effect of probity promotion doubled
with half the effort. The concern of whether people would obey laws and support probity could
never be separated from the recognition for the whole system.

(a) According to Source A, identify two reasons why MacLehose issued an amnesty. Explain
your answer with reference to Source A. (4 marks)
(b) According to Source B, what was the author’s attitude towards MacLehose? Explain your
answer with reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) Do you agree that ‘calming down public rage’ became the core of the government policy in
the mid-late 20th century? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using
your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Identify two reasons why MacLehose issued an amnesty. [4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify one reason only or ineffective in using the Source.
[max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify two reasons with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - Many police officers were arrested that police morale plummeted. Their protests
weakened the rule.
- MacLehose feared that the police might go on strike and plunge the colony into
anarchy.
- MacLehose pressed on with the prosecution of current corruption.
(b) What was the author’s attitude towards MacLehose? [3 marks]
Attitude:
e.g. - Positive/Appreciate
Clues:
e.g. - The author regarded MacLehose as the most capable Governor in Hong Kong’s
colonial history. He was respected in Hong Kong.
- The author mentioned that MacLehose greatly improved Hong Kong people’s
life and made the economic achievements share among people. Conflicts were
then eased and the society became more reasonable.
- The author attributed the success of the ICAC to MacLehose.
(c) Do you agree that ‘calming down public rage’ became the core of the government policy in
the mid-late 20th century? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Agree:

e.g. - MacLehose issued amnesty to improve the morale of the police and ease the
discontent. (Source A)
- The government established the ICAC to fight against corruption so as to ease
people’s discontent with the poor social environment. (Source A)
- MacLehose carried out reforms in labour protection (Source B) in order to
pacify the discontent since the riots during 1966-1967. He provided employers
and workers with a platform to communicate and settle disputes. (own
knowledge)
- The government introduced housing policies to improve the living environment
of the lower class and ease their discontent. For example, the Ten-Year Housing
Programme and the Home Ownership Scheme were introduced in 1972 and
1978 respectively. (own knowledge)
- Since 1960s, most government departments had set up various kinds of
consultative committees. Consisting mainly of Chinese leaders from the middle
and lower classes, these committees helped the government collect public
opinion, and promote government policies. (own knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - The purpose issuing a partial amnesty by MacLehose was to prevent Hong Kong
from anarchy, so as to consolidate the colonial rule. (Source B)
- All positions of directorate officers were still held by British in the early 1980s.
The government had not responded to the discontent of the Chinese about
further promotion in the government. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is about the situation of Chinese in Hong Kong during the late 19th and
early 20th centuries.
As a free port, Hong Kong welcomed different nationalities. However, foreign community and
the Chinese community could never merge into each other. In brief, there was great difference in
language and culture between the Chinese and non-Chinese. Therefore, they both chose to be
with their respective social groups. … Normally, the Chinese who had contact with the non-
Chinese community were servants or lower-rank employees of the foreigners. There were only a
very few successful Chinese who could become compradors in foreign companies, being
responsible for communicating with Chinese trading partners, contractors and lower-rank
employees. Even though some of the compradors had a very successful career and a few of them
accumulated wealth not less than their foreign boss, they yet failed to have an equal status with
the foreigners. In the early colonial Hong Kong, there were no discriminative laws on Chinese.
However, British residents had a sense of pride over the Chinese. They had a more superior
identity compared to the Chinese. During this time, foreigners saw discriminating Chinese as a
natural practice without the intention to seek legal proof for it.
Source B
The following table shows the composition of the Legislative Council during the period 1929-
1995.

(a) According to Source A, how was the relationship between the Chinese and the foreigners in
Hong Kong? Explain your answer with reference to Source A. (3 marks)
(b) Identify two trends in the composition of the Legislative Council during the period 1929-
1995, as reflected by Source A. Cite clues from Source A to explain your answer.
(4 marks)
(c) ‘During the late 19th to 20th centuries, the power of the Chinese had been increasingly
significant.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and
using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) How was the relationship between the Chinese and the foreigners in Hong Kong?[3 marks]
Answer:
e.g. - There was a wide gap between the Chinese and the foreigners in Hong Kong.
Clues:
e.g. - There was great difference in language and culture between the Chinese and
non-Chinese. They chose to be with their respective social groups.
- British residents had a sense of pride over the Chinese.
- Foreigners saw discriminating Chinese as a natural practice
- Chinese who had contact with the non-Chinese community were servants or
lower-rank employees of the foreigners.
(b) Identify two trends in the composition of the Legislative Council [4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify one trend only or ineffective in using the Source.
[max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify two trends with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - The overall number of members increased.

- The number of official members, which was originally a majority, decreased to
zero / the number of unofficial members increased from minority to 100% of the
composition.
- There was a higher degree of democracy, as reflected by the reduction in the
number of appointed seats.
(c) ‘During the late 19th to 20th centuries, the power of the Chinese had been increasingly
significant.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]

examples. [max. 8]
Sources:
e.g. - Some of the compradors had a very successful career and a few of them
accumulated wealth not less than their foreign boss. (Source A)
- The government introduced elections in the Legislative Council as well as
increasing its seats. This allowed common Chinese to participate in the
elections. (Source B)
Own knowledge:
e.g. - In 1974, a law was passed to recognise both Chinese and English as official
languages with equal legal status. (own knowledge)
- The government introduced various educational, cultural and social welfare
policies to improve the life of Chinese. Chinese had increasing importance.
(own knowledge)
- Since 1979, the government had introduced representative government to further
increase Chinese political participation. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is about the laissez-faire policy adopted in Hong Kong.
The Hong Kong government was deeply committed to laissez-faire during the export-led drive
in the 1960s and 1970s. Hong Kong had no manufacturing parastatals, little protection towards
domestic capital, no restrictions on entry, on import of technology, or on repatriation of profits,
and no credit or tax incentives.
Source B
The following passage is adapted from a commentary on the laissez-faire policy in Hong Kong.
The government had intervened in the economy or society in postwar years. The main forms of
interventions in the realms of collective consumption, including production and reproduction of
labor and subsidizing the social wage. These hidden state subsidies helped to keep labor costs
low throughout the 1960s and 1970s. In particular, provision of public housing close to the
factories gave a subsidy of as high as about 70% of the monthly wage to manufacturing
workers. This created a safety net for the lower class, instrumental in maintaining social
stability. Besides, government’s intervention in the private housing market took the form of rent
control and the governments also provided low-cost housing, private or public, which the hidden
subsidy served to keep down production costs. Moreover, the government also intervened
heavily in the price of foodstuffs and played an important role in negotiating tariffs and quotas
with foreign economic entities. Therefore, fiscal conservatism was a conscious strategy to
maintain a strong reserve and fiscal surplus in Hong Kong.
Laissez-faire policy was only an excuse for the colonial state which lacked legitimate rule to set
up a clearer political goals and intervened pragmatically.
(a) What were the influences of the policy implemented by the government from 1960s to 1970s
to the business environment in Hong Kong? Explain your answer with reference to Source
A.
(3 marks)
(b) What was Source B’s view on the laissez-faire policy? Explain your answer according to
Source B. (3 marks)
(c) ‘Laissez-faire policy was only a means for British colonial government to rule over Hong
Kong actually.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and

using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) What were the influences of the policy implemented by the government from 1960s to
1970s to the business environment in Hong Kong? [3 marks]
Answer:
e.g. - Laissez-faire policy was beneficial to the establishment of a favourable business
environment.
Clues:
e.g. - Free flow of capital promoted free trades and attract foreign investors.
- No restrictions on entry, on import of technology could increase the production.
- Tax incentives increased imports and cheap materials.
- Minimized the intervention to the market and allowed the market itself to adjust
the prices and developed.
(b) What was Source B’s view on the laissez-faire policy? [3 marks]
View:
e.g. - Hong Kong did not stop to intervene the operation of the market because if
laissez-faire policy. In fact, the policy did not carry out fully and it was only an
excuse for the government to interfere the economic and social affairs.
Clues:
e.g. - Provided subsidies to rental housing in order to reduce the expenditure of the
workers.
- Supervised the rents of private housing to lower the production costs.
- Adjusted the price of foodstuffs and negotiated tariffs and quotas with foreign
economic entities.
- Laissez-faire policy was only a pretext of fiscal conservatism to let Hong Kong
enjoy a fiscal surplus and had sufficient reserves.
(c) ‘Laissez-faire policy was only a means for British colonial government to rule over Hong
Kong actually.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]

[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Agree:
e.g. - Adopting laissez-faire policy promoted economic development in Hong Kong.
(Source A) Therefore, Hong Kong people would focus on their economic and
living conditions and accept the colonial government. (own knowledge)
- Reduce government intervention in the market was beneficial to the
establishment of a favourable business environment. The British government
could gain from the trades between Hong Kong and the foreign countries.
(Source A)
- Laissez-faire policy was good for the implementation of some economic and
social policies and which helped to enhance governance. (Source B)
- Provided a safe net to the lower class as a tool to maintain social stability.
(Source B)
- Hong Kong could enjoy a fiscal surplus and had sufficient reserves. (Source B)
- Avoided being too active in the performance of the government and leading to
China’s challenges and actions to the reforms in Hong Kong. (own knowledge)
- Reduced the opportunity of challenging the government policies for those
influential trading companies. (own knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - Laissez-faire policy was adopted according to the economic environment at that
time. (Source A)
- Laissez-faire policy did not have a direct or full relationship with other
economic and social policies. (Source B)
- The government minimized the intervention to the market and rejected
providing assistance or subsidies just for allowing the market to develop itself.
(Source A)
- Economic development was the pioneer of democratic development. If the
government would like to enhance the governance, it would not adopt laissez-
faire policy. (own knowledge)
- Laissez-faire policy was contributive to all classes and not only to the minority
especially for the exclusives of the foreigners. The lower class could enjoy the
benefits as well. There would be changes in the government which once
dominated by the foreigners and it the authority would be threatened. (own
knowledge)

- The rise of the Chinese would challenge the British rule more frequently. (own
knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is about the economic development of Hong Kong in the 1950s.
In the mid-1950s, the economy of Hong Kong developed rapidly. This was due to the inflow of
a large amount of industrial capital from the mainland, and the embargo imposed on China by
the United Nations in 1951. As a result of the embargo, the entrepot trade declined sharply in
Hong Kong, which then changed to develop its light industry. In 1947, the first textile mill in
Hong Kong, South China Textile Mill, was founded. Five cotton mills were also set up in the
same year. In 1954, there were 560 registered textile mills in Hong Kong, employing more than
34,000 workers. Meanwhile, small-scale clothing industry also began to develop. In 1950, over
2,000 workers were employed in the clothing industry. By the end of 1959, the number had
increased to 42,200, with 689 registered clothing factories.
Source B
The following charts show the percentage of the working population employed in the different
sectors in Hong Kong in 1980 and 1993.
(a) Identify one change economy of Hong Kong undergone in the 1950s. Explain your answer
(b) Cite two clues from Source B, and explain how the clues you cite reflect that Hong Kong
underwent economic transition during the period 1980-1993. (4 marks)
(c) With reference to Sources A and B, and using your own knowledge, describe the changing

economic modes of Hong Kong after the Second World War. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Identify one change economy of Hong Kong undergone in the 1950s. [3 marks]
Change:
e.g. - From entrepot trade to manufacturing industry
Clues:
e.g. - Source A mentions ‘the entrepot trade declined sharply in Hong Kong, which
then changed to develop its light industry.’ The number of factories and workers
also kept increasing.
(b) Cite two clues from Source B, and explain how the clues you cite reflect that Hong Kong
underwent economic transition during the period 1980-1993. [4 marks]

Clear answer, able to cite one clue with effective use of the Source only.
L2 Clear answer, able to cite two clues with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - Secondary production declining (The working population for secondary

production decreased from 23.7% in 1980 to 11.5% in 1993).
- Tertiary production rising (The percentage of the working population engaged in
tertiary production increased from 63.8% in 1980 to 77.4% in 1993. In addition,
the number of people employed in the tertiary sector amounted to 70% of the
working population of Hong Kong in that year.)
(c) Describe the changing economic modes of Hong Kong after the Second World War.
[8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Sources:
e.g. - From the 1950s, a large amount of mainland capital flooded into Hong Kong. In

addition, the United Nations imposed a trade embargo on China. As a result,

Hong Kong had to shift focus from entrepot trade onto the development of
industry. (Source A)
- During the 1950s, labour-intensive light industries, including textiles and
clothing, developed rapidly in Hong Kong. (Source A)
- The tertiary sector became more and more important in the economic
development of Hong Kong during the period 1980-1993, while the
manufacturing industry became less significant. (Source B)
Own knowledge:
e.g. - Other industries, including toys and plastics, also developed rapidly in Hong
Kong during the 1950s.
- After the 1970s, the industrial production of Hong Kong became diversified.
- After the 1990s, Hong Kong began to focus on the development of hi-tech
industry.

Source A
The following is extracted from a commentary on the economic development of Hong Kong in the
second half of the 20th century.
From the late 1970s on, Hong Kong and Guangdong became increasingly reintegrated in
symbiotic relationship shaped by Guangdong’s inexpensive labour and land and Hong Kong’s
capital and extensive international connections. Hong Kong’s business knowledge and
connections in the capitalist world helped China’s economic reforms through investment,
finance and trade. Hong Kong investors poured money into Guangdong and began to open
factories there, especially in the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone established in 1982. By the
late 1980s, more than three million mainlanders were working for Hong Kong firms in
Guangdong. China’s economic reforms thus helped transform Hong Kong from a manufacturing
base for light industrial goods such as electronic into a leading financial and service centre.
Source B
The following diagram shows the number of first-year students studying the government-
subsidised bachelor degrees during 1965-1996.

(a) Infer from Source A two appealing points of the mainland to Hong Kong investors. Explain
(b) Describe one trend of the number of students studying the government-subsidised bachelor
degrees during 1965-1996. (2 marks)
(c) ‘The economic transformation of Hong Kong in the 1980s was affected mainly by external
factors.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using

Answer
(a) Infer from Source A two appealing points of the mainland to Hong Kong investors.
[4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify one appealing point only or ineffective in using the
Source. [max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify two appealing points with effective use of the Source.
[max. 4]
e.g. - Cheap labour in Guangdong reduced the production cost, attracting the Hong
Kong’s investors to establish their factories there.
- China adopted the Reform and Opening-up policy. The Shenzhen Special
Economic Zone was established in 1982, attracting Hong Kong’s investors.
(b) Describe one trend of the number of students studying the government-subsidised bachelor
degrees during 1965-1996. [2 marks]
L1 Vague answer, unable to identify the trend or ineffective in using the Source. [max. 1]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify the trend with effective use of the Source. [max. 2]
e.g. - During 1970-1996, there was a constant rise of students entering the UGC-
funded bachelor degrees.
(c) ‘The economic transformation of Hong Kong in the 1980s was affected mainly by external
factors.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Agree:
e.g. - China’s adoption of Reform and Opening-up led Hong Kong’s merchants to
move their factories to the mainland for the lower labour cost in Guangdong.
The base of manufacturing industry gradually shifted to the mainland. Thus,
Hong Kong must change its economic model. (Source A)
- The economy of China rapidly developed under the Reform and Opening-up.
There was a rising demand of financial services. Hong Kong was capable in

providing such services with its comprehensive knowledge in commerce and the
connection with the capitalist world. The opening-up of China facilitated the
development of Hong Kong’s financial, trading and service industry. (Source A)
- Foreign investors used Hong Kong as the vital base for doing business in the
mainland, facilitating the development of Hong Kong’s financial and service
industry. (own knowledge)
- Since the 1970s, Hong Kong’s neighbours such as Taiwan and South Korea
became emerging industrial regions. The lower production cost in these regions
brought challenges to Hong Kong’s manufacturing industry. Hence, Hong
Kong’s economy had to transform. (own knowledge)
- European countries and America adhered to Protectionism. Hong Kong’s export
was limited by the quota system. The development of local industry was
hindered, leading to the transformation Hong Kong’s economy. (own
knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - The comprehensive knowledge in commerce and the connection with the
capitalist world laid a good foundation for the transformation of Hong Kong’s
economy. (Source A)
- The education level of Hong Kong constantly rose by more students being able
to enter universities. This situation facilitated Hong Kong’s transformation in
developing finance-oriented knowledge economy. (Source B)
- Elites who had received tertiary education became the middle class. Their
consumption capacity and the demand for better living quality indirectly
facilitated the development of the financial and service industry. (own
knowledge)
- Hong Kong’s industry had faced the pressure of rising wages and rents since the
1970s. The rise in production cost led to the difficult development of the sector.
The economy had to transform for sustainable development. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is about the changes of Hong Kong’s economy.
The government’s recognition of the shifting balance of importance between trade and industry
came after the local people reacted to the changing economic environment and devoted
themselves to industrial productions. Most of those who made this transition quickly in the
1950s were Chinese entrepreneurs. The majority were recent immigrants who brought with them
small capital from Guangdong. They knew there was no safety net for them in Hong Kong. To
survive, they altered their investment strategies as soon as the economic climate changed. Some
moved into small industrial production swiftly when the speculative boom busted in early 1952,
and prospered. Others failed, lost what capital they had and joined the labour force. They did not
expect or get help from the government.
Source B
The following extract is adapted from information about the riots during 1966-1967.
Lau Chin-shek, a former Legislative Councillor, remembered that workers at that time normally
earned a daily wage of $4-5. However, ‘the boss only gave me $4 as he knew I was from the
mainland,’ he stated. Other workers worked from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. but he had to work until 6:30
p.m. ‘A lunch at that time cost $0.8-1. As I had a low wage, I had to eat bread for lunch every
three days,’ he said. … Hong Kong’s economy started to prosper in the late 1950s, however,
wealth was not equally distributed. Only a minority was benefited. Economic development
brought only inflation to most people. Many people had a lower quality of life. ‘There were
labour laws but they had limited effect. There was no proper resolution for problems such as
dismissal and wage default. Workers were always at a disadvantage in labour disputes,’
Historian Elizabeth Sinn stated. The Labour Department was seriously short of resources. There
were 11,000 registered factories in 1967, with only 22 factory inspectors from the Department.
(a) According to Source A, identify and explain two reasons for the transformation of Hong
Kong’s economy in the 1950s. Explain your answer with reference to Source A and using
(b) According to Source B, what problems did the rapid economic development in Hong Kong
brought? Explain your answer with reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) After the Second World War, to what extent did the Hong Kong government facilitate the
economic development of Hong Kong? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and

B, and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Identify and explain two reasons for the transformation of Hong Kong’s economy in the
1950s. [4 marks]

Clear answer, able to explain one reason with effective use of the Source only.
L2 Clear answer, able to explain two reasons with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - The trade embargo imposed on China by the United Nations after the outbreak
of the Korean War forced Hong Kong to develop light industry. As mentioned in
Source A, ‘the speculative boom busted in early 1952’ refers to this embargo,
which badly hit Hong Kong’s entrepot trade.
- Immigrants from the mainland brought along capital and labour force, which
benefited the development of labour-intensive light industry.
(b) What problems did the rapid economic development in Hong Kong brought? [3 marks]
e.g. - Workers being exploited: Workers from the mainland had lower wages with
longer working hours compared to other workers.
- Uneven distribution of economic achievements: Wealth was distributed
unequally. A wide gap between the rich and the poor was resulted.
- High living cost: Quality of life did not rise as the inflation did.
- Inadequate labour protection: Existing labour laws failed to settle labour
disputes.
(c) After the Second World War, to what extent did the Hong Kong government facilitate the
economic development of Hong Kong? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
To a large extent:

e.g. - Hong Kong society was rather stable under the governance of the Hong Kong
government, which attracted the mainland investors to set up factories in Hong
Kong, bringing along capital and technology, in order to escape from political
turmoil. (Source A and own knowledge)
- Hong Kong society was rather stable under the governance of the Hong Kong
government. Hong Kong thus became a shelter for the mainland refugees, which
provided large labour resources. (Source A and knowledge)
- The government also set up quasi-governmental organisations, such as the
Federation of Hong Kong Industries (1960) and Hong Kong Trade Development
Council (1966), to conduct research and develop industries. (own knowledge)
- The government eenouraged free market, through which Western investors
could enter mainland market. Hong Kong financial and service industry were
thus promoted. (own knowledge)
To a small extent:
e.g. - In the 1950s, the success of Hong Kong industry was brought by the capability
of Hong Kong merchants. The government did not have much contributions.
(Source A)
- The government could not distribute wealth equally. Only a minority was
benefited. (Source B)
- Hong Kong government only provided little resources to tackle labour problems,
which hindered economic development. (Source B)
- Hong Kong adopted free market policy. The government did little intervention
in the market. Therefore, economic development much depended on the
capability of merchants. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following table shows the percentages of export products manufactured by a number of Hong
Kong companies surveyed in 1988-1997 by place of origin.
Made in Hong Kong Made in the Made in countries in

mainland the Third World
1988 35.8% 35.8% 28.4%
1991 22.1% 57.6% 20.3%
1994 11.2% 58.7% 30.1%
1997 9.5% 62.8% 27.7%
Source B
The following is about a lawyer’s experience in the 1990s.
Since the mid-1990s, I’ve been expanding cross-border legal service…over 90% of businessmen
in Hong Kong had already moved their production line to the mainland at that time. These
companies could not obtain further banking facilities since their fixed properties in Hong Kong
had already been mortgaged to banks. They could only increase the banking facilities by
mortgaging lands, machines and Shares held in the mainland. In that case, I’d provide these
Hong Kong businessmen cross-border legal service to assist them in mortgaging their properties
in Hong Kong and the mainland to banks in Hong Kong. This opportunity became an important
milestone in my career.
(a) Describe two trends in industrial development in Hong Kong as reflected in Source A.
Support your answer with clues from Source A. (4 marks)
(b) According to Source B, what was the impact of the trend you inferred in (a) on Hong Kong’s
service industry? Explain your answer with reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) What factors impacted Hong Kong’s economic development since the 1980s? Explain your

Answer
(a) Identify and explain two reasons for the transformation of Hong Kong’s economy in the
1950s. [4 marks]

Clear answer, able to explain one trend with effective use of the Source only.
L2 Clear answer, able to explain two trends with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - Percentage of products made in Hong Kong was decreasing, while percentages
of those made in China and countries in the Third World were increasing.
- In 1988, percentages of products made in Hong Kong and China were the same
(35.8%). In 1997, the latter rose to 62.8%, dominating the chart, while the
former dropped to only 9.5%.
(b) What was the impact of the trend you inferred in (a) on Hong Kong’s service industry?
[3 marks]
L1 Vague answer, unable to identify the impact or ineffective in using the Source.[max. 1]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify the impact with effective use of the Source. [max. 3]
e.g. - Bringing in new business opportunities for local professionals. (The lawyer in
the interview had the chance to expand cross-border legal service.)
- Prompting necessity to cope with economic practice of the mainland. (Properties
in China were mortgaged along with properties in Hong Kong by Hong Kong
businessmen to banks in Hong Kong.)
(c) What factors impacted Hong Kong’s economic development since the 1980s? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Sources:
e.g. - Local industrial production declined as production was offshored to China and
countries in the Third World, prompting the rise of finance and service sector.
(Sources A and B)
- Increasing economic ties between Hong Kong and the mainland brought in new

business opportunities for local professionals, enhancing the development of

service industry. (Source B)
- Economic practice of the mainland affected local economic industry. (Source B)
Own knowledge:
e.g. - Government’s economic policies allowed free market.
- Emergence of professionals
- The mainland policy of Reform and Opening-up in 1978

Source A
The following graph shows the population of Hong Kong during the 1960s-1970s.
6,000,000
5,000,000
Population
4,000,000
3,000,000
2,000,000
1,000,000
0
1960 1963 1966 1969 1970 1973 1976 1979
Year
Source B
The following graph shows the rate of natural increase of population in Hong Kong during the
1960s-1970s.
30%
25%
20%
Rate
15%
10%
5%
0%
1963 1966 1969 1973 1976 1979
Year
Source C

The following cartoon was published in 1979.
(a) Using Source B, identify one factor in the changing population of Hong Kong during the
1960s-1970s as reflected by Source A. (4 marks)
(b) What was the main message of Source C? Explain your answer with reference to Source C.
(3 marks)
(c) During the period 1960s-1970s, did the growth of population bring about a better Hong
Kong? Explain your answer with reference to Source C, and using your own knowledge.
(7 marks)

Answer
(a) Identify one factor in the changing population of Hong Kong during the 1960s-1970s.
[4 marks]
L1 Able to point out the nature, but the answer is vague and/or with use of only Source A
or B to answer. [max. 2]
L2 Able to point out the nature, with use of both Sources A and B to answer. [max. 4]
Factor: Influx of immigrants
Explanation:
e.g. - Source A shows that Hong Kong population in the 1960s-1970s rose
continuously. However, the rate of natural increase of population in Hong Kong
during the 1960s-1970s dropped continuously. This shows that the main factor
of population increase was influx of immigrants instead of internal growth of
population.
(b) What was the main message of Source C?

[3 marks]
Message: Influx of immigrants worsened the crowding problem of Hong Kong.
Explanation:
e.g. - In Source A, Vietnamese refugees and Chinese immigrants were walking into
Hong Kong. Hong Kong was facing an influx of immigrants.
- The feet representing Vietnamese refugees and Chinese immigrants were huge,
while the island representing Hong Kong was small. This reflects that Hong
Kong could not cope with the large number of immigrants.
- The dialogue box says ‘Standing room only’. This reflects that there was an
overcrowding situation in Hong Kong, and there was not enough housing for the
immigrants.
(c) During the period 1960s-1970s, did the growth of population bring about a better Hong
Kong? [7 marks]
[max. 2]


examples. [max. 7]
Yes:
e.g. - The influx of immigrants brought capital and technology to Hong Kong,
simulating its economy. (Sources A, B and own knowledge)
- The influx of immigrants and local baby boom filled the lack of labour after the
war and gave rise to the industry development. (Sources A, B and own
knowledge)

No:
e.g. - The influx of immigrants and local baby boom worsened the problem of the lack
of housing. (Source C and own knowledge)
- The lack of housing worsened the living environment of Hong Kong. (Source C
and own knowledge)

Source A
The chart below shows the population structure of Hong Kong in 1961.
Source B
The table below shows the fertility rate per 1,000 women in Hong Kong during the period 1961-
1981.

(a) According to Source A, identify one population phenomenon Hong Kong society was
experiencing in 1961. Explain your answer with reference to Source A. (3 marks)
(b) Identify two trends in the fertility conditions of Hong Kong women during the period 1961-
1981, as reflected in Source B. Explain your answer with reference to Source B.
(4 marks)
(c) With reference to Sources A and B, and using your own knowledge, describe the changing
population of Hong Kong from the end of the Second World War to the end of the 20th
century. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Identify one population phenomenon Hong Kong society was experiencing in 1961.
[3 marks]
Answer:
e.g. - Baby boom
Clues:
e.g. - The young age population ranging from 0-15 years old accounted for the
majority of the population, but population at marriage and fertility ages (15-30
years old) was obviously less. This shows that Hong Kong family in 1961
generally gave birth to many children, leading to baby boom.
(b) Identify two trends in the fertility conditions of Hong Kong women during the period 1961-
1981 [4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify one trend only or ineffective in using the Source.
[max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify two trends with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - The fertility rate of women fell sharply. (In 1961, 313 people per 1,000 women
aged 25-29 gave birth to children. In 1981, the number declined to 154.7.)
- The pregnancy age of women showed a rising trend. (In 1961, the number of
births by women aged 20-24 was higher than that by women aged 30-34.
However, the situation reversed from 1971 onwards.)
(c) Describe the changing population of Hong Kong from the end of the Second World War to
the end of the 20th century. [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
1950s-1970s:
e.g. - The post-war baby boom gave rise to the local population. (Source A)

- As the local industry experienced rapid growth, it required labour support.

Therefore, Hong Kong family gave birth to many children in order to sustain
livelihood. (Source B and own knowledge)
- Influx of immigrants (including the Vietnamese refugees and mainland refugees)
gave rise to local population. (own knowledge)
1970s-1990s:
e.g. - As economic transition took place, Hong Kong developed tertiary production,
which enhanced female opportunity of gaining higher social status. Therefore,
they tended to marry and give birth late. (Source B and own knowledge)
- As economic transition took place, Hong Kong developed tertiary production,
which no longer benefitted labour-intensive industry. The population growth
slowed down. (own knowledge)
- The political environment in the mainland became stable. The number of
immigrants thus dropped. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following table shows the population distribution in different new towns of Hong Kong during
the period 1981-1996.
* Estimated number
Source B
The following cartoon was published in a Hong Kong newspaper in 1994.

(a) Identify one social policy that was implemented by the government in Source A, and infer its
purpose. Explain your answer with reference to Source A. (4 marks)
(b) According to Source B, do you think the cartoonist of Source B would agree that the policy
you identified in (a) was effective? Explain your answer with reference to Source B.
(3 marks)
(c) What policies did the government put forward to cope with Hong Kong population
development after the Second World War? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A
and B, and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Identify one social policy that was implemented by the government in Source A, and infer
its purpose. [4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify the social policy of Source A only without inferring its
purpose. [max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify the social policy of Source A only, inferring its purpose.
[max. 4]
Social policy: Developing new towns.

Purpose: Relieving crowding problem.
Explanation:
e.g. - The population in the new towns in New Territories continued to grow, and new
new towns also emerged. They were set up to cope with the population growth.
(b) Do you think the cartoonist of Source B would agree that the policy you identified in (a)
was effective? [3 marks]

e.g. - In 1994, the condition of Hong Kong population resembled a train filled with
people.
- The man thought that Hong Kong population ‘feels like 60 million).
(c) What policies did the government put forward to cope with Hong Kong population
development after the Second World War? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Population development:
e.g. - In 1994, Hong Kong population reached 6 million, which led to serious

crowding problem. (Source B)

- Due to influx of immigrants and baby boom, the population continued to grow.
(own knowledge)
Policies:
e.g. - The government developed a number of new towns in the New Territories after
the 1970s. (Source A and own knowledge)
- The government carried out reclamation projects in different districts, such as
Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, Tuen Mun and Tsuen Wan.
- The government started new projects, such as the Lion Rock Tunnel, Cross-
Habour Tunnel and Mass Transit Railway.
- The government introduced large-scale urban renewal schemes in Sheung Wan,
Hung Hom, etc. after the 1960s.
Source A
The following describes the living conditions in Hong Kong in the 1950s.
In the early 1950s, a total of 170,000 residential flats were available in Hong Kong, but they
were insufficient to meet the demand of the local people. Migrants from the mainland could
only live in temporary flats on the rooftops of old buildings or on pavements. Some of them
even had to live in miserable huts that they had put together out of boards or cardboard on
farmland or at foothills. The quality of life was extremely poor. Many apartments, which had
once been sun-baked and well-ventilated, were partitioned into numerous dark small rooms.
‘Home’ was just a bed to many people. The residents in squatter areas were surrounded by
rubbish all day long.
Source B
The following diagram shows the geographical distribution of population in Hong Kong during
1966-2006.
Hong Kong Kowloon The New Above

Island Territories Water
1966 27.8% 54.8% 14.6% 2.8%
1976 23.3% 54% 21.3% 1.3%
1986 21.9% 42.8% 34.7% 0.7%
1996 21.1% 32% 46.8% 0.2%
Source C
The following passage is about the urban development of Hong Kong in the second half of the
20th century.

The opening of the first cross-harbour tunnel in 1972 brought Hong Kong Island and Kowloon
much closer together, as did the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), begun in 1975 and completed by
the late 1980s. Fast, clean, and efficient, the mostly underground MTR meets with the
Kowloon-Canton Railway, linking Hong Kong, Kowloon, and the New Territories. Until the
1950s, the New Territories had remained very much its own part of Hong Kong. Society
revolved mainly around agriculture and markets, which were both commercial sites and social
gatherings. There were few schools or medical facilities. By the end of the 1960s, however the
pace of life was changing rapidly. … After the government decided in 1972 to develop the New
Territories to relieve overcrowding in Hong Kong and Kowloon, the ‘new town’ projects helped
change the character of the New Territories by bringing in residents from other parts of the
colony and blurring the line between rural and urban.
(a) According to Source A, if you were a common people living in Hong Kong in the early
1950s, would you be satisfied with Hong Kong living environment? Explain your answer
(b) According to Source B, identify one trend of Hong Kong urban development. Explain your
(c) ‘After the Second World War, population factor was the most important factor promoting
Hong Kong urban development.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference to
Sources A, B and C, and using your own knowledge. (9 marks)

Answer
(a) If you were a common people living in Hong Kong in the early 1950s, would you be
satisfied with Hong Kong living environment? [3 marks]

Explanation:
e.g. - Many Hong Kong people lived in temporary buildings, and some of them made
shelters by boards or cardboard.
- Many Hong Kong people lived in crowded and small flats. They even divided
apartments into a number of rooms with bad ventilation
(b) Identify one trend of Hong Kong urban development. [3 marks]
L1 Vague answer, unable to identify the trend or ineffective in using the Source. [max. 1]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify the trend with effective use of the Source. [max. 3]
e.g. - The proportion of population living on Hong Kong Island and Kowloon
constantly fell.
- Yet the proportion of population living in the New Territories was constantly
rising, becoming the most densely populated region in Hong Kong.
(c) ‘After the Second World War, population factor was the most important factor promoting
Hong Kong urban development.’ Do you agree? [9 marks]
[max. 3]
examples. [max. 9]
Population factors:
e.g. - In the early 1950s, Hong Kong was in serious lack of flats as people could only
live in houses in poor condition. This encouraged the government to improve its
housing policy. (Source A)
- After the 1970s, the government developed new towns in the New Territories

with great effort to cope with population growth. (Sources B and C)

- MTR met with the Kowloon-Canton Railway, linking Hong Kong, Kowloon,
and the New Territories. (Sources B and C)
Other factors:
e.g. - After the Second World War, Hong Kong developed industry, which led to the
construction of the Kwun Tong and Tai Po Industrial Estate. (own knowledge)
- To cope with the development of different industries, the government embarked
on large-scale infrastructure. For example, coping with the development of the
aviation industry, a reclamation project in Kowloon Bay was carried out for the
expansion of Kai Tak Airport. To meet the needs of the freight industry, the
government also reclaimed land along the coast of Kwai Chung to build Kwai
Chung Container Terminals. (own knowledge)
Source A
The photo below shows the Kowloon Peninsula in 1945. The area in the front is Tsim Sha Tsui.

Source B
The following passage is adapted from an oral history interview conducted in 2008 by a woman
who was born in 1965. She has 3 elder brothers and 1 younger brother. The interviewee is her
mother.
I carried you on my back while doing embroidery. I had to light an oil lamp because there was
no electricity in the places around the Lion Rock. …When you were born, we bought a wooden
hut by the roadside with $600 (which was a high price) for fear that there might be a fire. The
wooden hut was small, your eldest brother could hardly stand on the upper deck of the bunk
bed. He had to roll onto his bed and must not sit on it, else his head would hit the roof.
(Grandfather added: I had it worse. I slept on a wooden board. … indoor when it was raining
and outdoor if it wasn’t.) You, your third brother and I slept together on the lower deck; your
eldest and second brother slept on the upper deck. We could hardly find a place to sleep.
We had been waiting for 7 years until we were balloted to be offered a flat in Ngau Tau Kok
Estate. Your father started to queue when your third brother was born. We got the flat when he
was 7. When we moved in, you were already 2.
We needed to carry water while we were living in a wooden hut. I could not do it because I have
to carry you on my back. Luckily our neighbours, Mrs. Chan and Mrs. Tsang, were always
willing to give me a helping hand. Later we raised money to install pipes and no longer needed
to carry water.
(a) Was Tsim Sha Tsui the most modernised region in the Kowloon Peninsula in 1945? Explain
(b) Infer from Source B two characteristics of Hong Kong’s population in the 1960s and 1970s.
Explain your answer. (4 marks)
(c) What changes had Hong Kong’s society undergone from 1945 to the 1970s? Explain your

Answer
(a) Was Tsim Sha Tsui the most modernised region in the Kowloon Peninsula in 1945?
[3 marks]
Explanation:
e.g. - There were many high-rise buildings in Tsim Sha Tsui. The place behind Tsim
Sha Tsui seems to be undeveloped, while the area under the Lion Rock was
completely undeveloped.
[4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify one characteristic only or ineffective in using the
Source. [max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify two characteristics with effective use of the Source.
[max. 4]
e.g. - High birth rate (5 children in a family)

- High dependency ratio (all 5 children were underage in the 1960s and 1970s)
(c) What changes had Hong Kong’s society undergone from 1945 to the 1970s? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Sources:
e.g. - The Kowloon Peninsula was rapidly urbanized with surging population; Areas
around the Lion Rock turned from wasteland to squatter settlements. (Sources A
and B)
- Hong Kong government constructed public housing estates to improve the living
condition of the public. (Source B)

Own knowledge:
e.g. - Sex ratio became more balanced.
- Urban Renewal Schemes (mainly in Sheung Wan and Hung Hom) began.
- The government began to develop new towns in Kwun Tong and the New
Territories.
- Transport was improved, e.g. the construction of MTR system and Lion Rock
Tunnel.

Source A
The following passage is about the changes in the population of Hong Kong after the Second
World War.
From the end of the Second World War to the late 1960s, a large number of mainland residents
came to Hong Kong, which made the population of Hong Kong rise from 0.6 million in 1945 to
3.72 million in 1967. During the period 1947-1950, about 2 million people fled to Hong Kong
through Shenzhen. After 1957, due to the ‘Great Leap Forward’ and ‘3-year economic hardship’
in the mainland, many mainland residents flooded into Hong Kong again. It was estimated that
the number of arrivals from the mainland was 0.9 million within 20 years from 1950 to 1970.
The new immigrants provided low-cost and high-quality labour force for the development of
labour-intensive industry in Hong Kong. Nevertheless, the problems of housing, education,
employment and medical welfare became more and more serious.
Source B
The following was adapted from an advertisement of the Family Planning Association of Hong
Kong in a local newspaper published in 1967.

Source C
The following table shows the general fertility rate in Hong Kong during the period 1971-1980.
Year General fertility rate*

1971 86.7
1972 84.7
1973 83.6
1974 81.8
1975 75.9
1976 72.9
1977 72.0
1978 70.5
1979 67.4
1980 67.1
* General fertility rate relates the number of live births in a calendar year to the mid-year female population aged 15–
49.
(a) According to Source A, what impact did the mainland immigrants bring to Hong Kong?
Explain your answer with reference to Source A. (2 marks)
(b) (i) According to Source B, identify the purpose of the advertisement. Support your answer
with two clues from Source B. (3 marks)
(ii) Was the purpose of the advertisement in Source B achieved in the 1970s? Explain your
answer with reference to Source C. (2 marks)
(c) To what extent were the changes in the population of Hong Kong in the 20th century
affected by the China factors? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A, B and C,
and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) What impact did the mainland immigrants bring to Hong Kong? [3 marks]
e.g. - The mainland immigrants provided low-cost and high-quality labour force
which facilitated the development of labour-intensive industry in Hong Kong.
- The influx of mainland immigrants worsened the problems of housing,
education, employment and medical welfare in Hong Kong.
(b)(i) Identify the purpose of the advertisement. [3 marks]
Answer:
e.g. - To encourage women to adopt birth control
Clues:
e.g. - The advertisement has the words ‘birth control’.
- The woman in the advertisement only holds one baby.
- The advertisement shows that birth control by intrauterine contraceptive device
is ‘safe’, ‘convenient’ and ‘reliable’.
(b)(ii) Was the purpose of the advertisement in Source B achieved in the 1970s? [2 marks]
Explanation:
e.g. - During the period 1971-1980, the general fertility rate in Hong Kong kept
decreasing from 86.7 to 67.1.
(c) To what extent were the changes in the population of Hong Kong in the 20th century
affected by the China factors? [8 marks]
[max. 2]


examples. [max. 8]
China factors:
e.g. - The mainland residents moved to Hong Kong due to political instability in
China, making the population in Hong Kong increase. (Source A)
- Since the 1970s, China introduced the Reform and Opening-up policy and the
political situation became more stable. The number of people moving to Hong
Kong decreased. (own knowledge)
- In the 1980s, the Sino-British negotiations on the future of Hong Kong began. In
addition to the June Fourth Incident in China in 1989, an emigration wave
appeared in Hong Kong. Therefore, population growth slowed down. (own
knowledge)
Local factors:
e.g. - The government actively promoted birth control which slowed down the birth
rate in Hong Kong and alleviated population pressure. (Sources B and C)
- The rapid post-war economic recovery and social stability in Hong Kong led to
a baby boom. The population increased drastically. (own knowledge)
- The improvement in medical welfare and public hygiene led to a low death rate.
(own knowledge)
- The education level in Hong Kong increased. Young people tended to have late
marriages or stay single. Thus, the birth rate decreased and the population
growth slowed down. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is related to the wedding rituals of Hong Kong people.
Despite the fact that Hong Kong is a westernised city, many people still adhere to traditional
customs. For example, many hold their weddings in wintertime when there used to be no
farming. Since Chinese people make up the majority of the population of Hong Kong and most
of them come from the mainland, most of the traditional Chinese customs are kept here.
Although the younger generation is more open-minded, their weddings still consist of many
traditional Chinese elements due to the insistence of the older generation. When a couple
decides to get married, the two families arrange a meeting. They discuss the money and the gifts
that the groom should present to the bride’s family. In addition, they choose two lucky days for
presenting the money and the gifts, and for holding the wedding. For most of the time, the
wedding consists of both Chinese and Western elements. They hold the wedding ceremony at
the Marriage Registry or in the church in the morning. Then, they go to the groom’s home to
bow to the ancestors. After that, they pay a visit to the bride’s family. In the evening, a wedding
banquet is organised for friends and relatives in a restaurant. In order to go on their honeymoon
right away, they finish all these rituals on the wedding day.
Source B
The following passage introduces the food culture in Hong Kong.
Cha chaan ting: neither Chinese nor Western?

Cha chaan ting are perhaps the most representative of the life culture in Hong Kong. They are
cheap and everywhere, and every one of them offers similar food. One can eat different kinds of
food in a tea cafe, ranging from Chinese-style congee, noodles and rice, Western-style macaroni
and sandwiches, and even Hong Kong-style hot dishes and seasonal seafood. Cha chaan ting
well reflect the unique food culture in Hong Kong – neither Chinese nor Western.
Take the set breakfasts as examples: Set A includes instant noodles with chopped pork as well as
fried eggs and ham. Set B includes vermicelli in salted vegetables and minced pork served with
sausage omelets. Such combinations do not lead to conflicting tastes though. Interesting enough,
some of the dishes on the menu can only be understood by the Hong Kong people. For example,
‘yuan yang’ means the mixture of coffee and tea.
If you want to know more about the unique food culture in Hong Kong, try one of cha chaan
ting.

(a) According to the author of Source A, infer two reasons giving rise to the characteristic of
‘consisting of both Chinese and Western elements’ of Hong Kong wedding. Explain your
(b) Identify one characteristic of Hong Kong food culture in Source B. Explain your answer
with reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) ‘Hong Kong is a place where Chinese and foreign cultures co-exist and interact with one
another.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using

Answer
(a) Infer two reasons giving rise to the characteristic of ‘consisting of both Chinese and
Western elements’ of Hong Kong wedding. [4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify one reason only or ineffective in using the Source.[max.
2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify two reasons with effective use of the Source.
[max. 4]
e.g. - Despite the fact that Hong Kong is a westernised city, many Hong Kong people
are Chinese. Therefore, they would keep their traditional customs.
- The insistence of the older generation
[3 marks]
Answer:
e.g. - Neither Chinese nor Western/combining Chinese and Western cultures
Explanation:
e.g. - Cha chaan ting serve Chinese-style food like congee and Western-style food like
sandwiches.
- A breakfast includes Chinese-style food like vermicelli in salted vegetables and
Western-style food like minced pork served with sausage omelets
(c) ‘Hong Kong is a place where Chinese and foreign cultures co-exist and interact with one
another.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Sources:
e.g. - Hong Kong people’s weddings contain both traditional Chinese and Western
elements. This provides a proof of the co-existence of Chinese and Western

cultures in Hong Kong. (Source A)

- The food culture in cha chaan ting is non-Western and non-Chinese. Besides,
Western and Chinese food are served in one breakfast. (Source B)
Own knowledge:
e.g. - Other Western customs and practices, such as funeral ceremony, are also
followed by the Hong Kong people.
- There are also co-existence of Chinese and Western cultures in other aspects,
such as language and religion.
- Hong Kong people are also fond of other non-Western cultures, such as
Japanese and Korean ones.
- Besides Chinese and Western architectures, some architectures even merged
both Chinese and Western architectural styles.
Source A
The following table shows the awarded songs in the Top Ten Chinese Gold Songs Award Concert
held by the RTHK in 1987.
Song Singer Composer Lyricist Note

(translated
names)
Sun and Stars Jacky Hideaki Tokunaga Richard An arrangement created on
Cheung Lam the basis of ‘Birds’
composed by Hideaki
Tokunaga.
Grey Sandy Lam Tambi Fernando / Richard An arrangement created on
Iris Fernando / Lam the basis of ‘Heartache’, a
Wayne Brown song from a British female
group Pepsi & Shirlie
Countless George Lam Forster / Keans / Poon Wai An arrangement created on
nights Jackson Yuen the basis of ‘Lonely Won’t
Leave Me Alone’ from
Jermaine Jackson, an
American signer.
Don’t Say Alan Tam Suzuki Kisaburo/ Wong zan An arrangement created on
Goodbye Akira Otsu the basis of ‘Shine’ from
(original Hideaki Tokunaga.
name of the
song)
My Story Danny Chan Danny Chan Heung Suet

Wai
Sincere Kenny Bee Lam Man Yi Andrew
Lam
Sleepless Leslie Alvin Kwok Andrew
Night Cheung Lam
Heart to Heart Raidas Wong Yiu Kong Christopher
Wong
Fool Alan Tam Alan Tam Keith Chan
Flaming Red Anita Mui Anthony Lun Poon Wai
Lips Yuen

Source B
The following extract is adapted from a commentary on the development of Cantopop.
When there is a lack of creative talents, an arrangement created on the basis of foreign songs
would be a good alternative. In the late 1960s, in Taiwan there were already frequent success of
creating an arrangement on the basis of Japanese songs, which were recognised by Hong Kong
people as well. Hence, starting from the mid-1970s, songs adopting Japanese melodies with
Cantonese lyrics rose aside from the Cantopop. An arrangement created on the basis of
Japanese songs outweigh American songs. Japanese pop songs usually adopt hexatonic scale (6
notes per octave) ( 六音音階 ) in which Hong Kong are more used to owing to oriental
characteristics therein. In the 1970s, teenagers and the middle class of Hong Kong, compared to
the older generation, had less hatred on the Japanese. Rather than resentment, many of them
admired the success of Japanese technologies. Travelling to Japan even became a high-end
entertainment for the fashionable ones. Hence, not only did they have no resistance on Japanese
songs but favour.
(a) Identity from Source A one characteristic of pop song culture in Hong Kong. Explain your
(b) Why would Hong Kong’ pop song culture be influenced by Japanese songs? Explain your
(c) ‘Pop culture in Hong Kong is the product produced by the mixture of Chinese and foreign
culture.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference to Sources and using your own

Answer
(a) Identity from Source A one characteristic of pop song culture in Hong Kong. [3 marks]
Answer:
e.g. - Combining Chinese and foreign cultures
Explanation:
e.g. - Most of the pop songs were local in which Hong Kong composers and lyricists
were adopted.
- At the same time, western elements were adopted in Hong Kong’s pop songs.
For example, Chinese songs were titled a English name.
- Many pop songs at that time were arrangement created on the basis of British,
American and Japanese songs.
(b) Why would Hong Kong’ pop song culture be influenced by Japanese songs? [4 marks]

Explanation:
e.g. - Hong Kong lacked creative talents. Arrangement created on the basis of foreign
songs was a efficient and beneficial way to produce songs.
- The phonographic industry in Taiwan achieved success in producing
arrangement on the basis of Japanese songs, which attracted Hong Kong
audience.
- Japanese pop songs carried more oriental characteristics compared to the
American songs, which were more easily accepted by Hong Kong audience.
- Compared to the older generation, the teenagers and middle class of Hong Kong
in the 1970s had less hatred on the Japanese. They appreciated Japanese culture
and songs.
(c) ‘Pop culture in Hong Kong is the product produced by the mixture of Chinese and foreign
culture.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]


examples. [max. 8]
Sources:
e.g. - Many pop songs in Hong Kong were arrangement created on the basis of
British, American and Japanese songs. They were incorporated with Cantonese
lyrics. (Source A)
- After the mid-1970s, songs mixed with Japanese melodies and Cantonese lyrics
rose in Hong Kong. (Source B)
Own knowledge:
e.g. - Hong Kong’s music bands were deeply influenced by western music. For
example, the rock band Beyond was influenced by the rock music of Britain and
America. (own knowledge)
- The themes of Hong Kong’s films absorbed foreign influence. For example, the
Hong Kong movie ‘Aces Go Places’ (《最佳拍擋》) imitated the James Bond
series produced in the Hollywood. (own knowledge)
- The themes of the TV dramas in Hong Kong were also absorbed foreign
influence. For example, the TV drama ‘Burning Flame’ (《烈火雄心》)imitated
Japanese comic ‘Firefighter - Daigo of Company M’ (《消防員的故事》).

Source A
The following advertisement appeared in a Hong Kong newspaper in 1975. Robocon was a major
character on a Japanese children TV show at that time. Wing On was a famous non-Japanese
department store in Hong Kong.
Notes: The price of a newspaper was 30 cents in 1975, so was that of a pineapple bun.

Source B
The following passage is the recollection of a Hong Kong citizen born in the late 1960s.
My father was a merchant who had his own shop, but my family was never well-off when I was
a child. The children and young people nowadays can spend their money like water to snap up
their beloved toys. I, however, could only but Ding Dong (Doraemon) stickers and Kaman Rider
figures when I had some spare cash.
When I went to secondary school in the 1980s, my family became well-off. With more pocket
money from my elder siblings, I could afford more ‘high-end’ products. They included comics –
which were my favourite – especially Spiderman from the US and Dr. Slump from Japan. As for
toys, I collected figures and models of Gundam from Japan and Star Wars from the US.
Nintendo TV games became popular when I was studying at university. I spent a lot of joyful
time with my schoolmates playing TV games in my university life. After graduation, I learned
Japanese and then travelled to Japan twice to learn more about Japanese culture.
(a) Cite two clues from Source A to prove that Japanese culture was very popular in Hong Kong
in the mid-1970s. Explain your answer. (4 marks)
(b) To what extent was the author of Source B affected by Japanese culture? Explain your
(c) ‘Foreign culture had prominent influence in Hong Kong in the second half of the 20th
century.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference to Sources and using your own

Answer
(a) Cite two clues from Source A to prove that Japanese culture was very popular in Hong
Kong in the mid-1970s. [4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify one clue only or ineffective in using the Source.
[max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify two clues with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - A non-Japanese department store featured Robocon in its advertisement. (It

proves that this cartoon character was very popular)
- Photo with Robocon upon HK$50 of purchase (It proves that Japanese cartoon
characters helped promote sale)
(b) To what extent was the author of Source B affected by Japanese culture? [3 marks]
Answers should be large extent, or else it would be difficult to raise justifications.

e.g. - Although the author was under the influence of American culture (e.g.
Spiderman comics and Star Wars comics), Japanese culture came more
prominent (e.g. buying figures and TV games, learning Japanese and travelling
to Japan twice).
(c) ‘Foreign culture had prominent influence in Hong Kong in the second half of the 20th
century.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Sources:
e.g. - Japanese children TV show was broadcasted in Hong Kong. (Source A)
- Company in Hong Kong used famous characters from Japanese children TV

show to promote its products. (Source A)

- Hong Kong people were enthusiastic about foreign cultures. (Source B)
Own knowledge:
e.g. - Hong Kong pop songs were deeply influenced by western music; a number of
them were adapted from foreign pop songs.
- Many shops in Hong Kong adopted foreign names, such as Giordano.
- Hong Kong people used loan words in daily communication, such as ‘genki’ (元
氣) and ‘waribiki’ (割引).

Source A
The following image is the cover of an album by Hong Kong pop singer Jacky Cheung released in
Japan in 1994.
Deeper In Love Than You by Jacky Cheung

Japan debut album of Jacky Cheung, the No.1 male singer in Asia and an active figure in the
‘Asian-pop’ scene. Exquisite singing skills combined with signature songs, Deeper In Love
Than You can definitely touch the hearts of the Japanese who are also Asians. Songs featuring
Vivian Chow and Faye Wong are included.
Source B
The following extract is about the development of ‘Cantopop’ in Hong Kong.
Popular music also developed locally in Hong Kong, mostly sung in Cantonese. It was first
termed ‘Cantorock’ by the Billboard correspondent Hans Ebert in 1974, the ‘Cantopop’ in 1978.
It incorporates Western pop, American-British rock, Japanese lyrical style, and Chinese folksong
characteristics in varying proportions, depending upon the song. Lyrics are usually melancholy
and are about love. Beginning around 1980, the Hong Kong music industry expanded and spread
to China, Taiwan, Japan, Southeast Asia, and North America.
(a) Cite two clues from Source A, and explain how the clue you cite reflects that Hong Kong
singers had high reputation in Asia. (4 marks)
(b) Infer from Source B the nature of Cantopop in the 1970s and 1980s. Explain your answer
with reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) ‘Hong Kong local culture and foreign cultures gave and received one another.’ Do you
agree? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using your own
knowledge.

(8 marks)

Answer
(a) Cite two clues from Source A, and explain how the clue you cite reflects that Hong Kong
singers had high reputation in Asia. [4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify one clue only or ineffective in using the Source.
[max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify two clues with effective use of the Source. [max. 4]
e.g. - The album was released in Japan.

- Jacky Cheung was regarded as ‘the No.1 male singer in Asia’.
(b) Infer from Source B the nature of Cantopop. [3 marks]
One mark for valid nature and two marks for valid explanation
Nature:
e.g. - Diverse
Explanation:
e.g. - It incorporates Western pop, American-British rock, Japanese lyrical style, and
Chinese folksong characteristics in varying proportions, depending upon the
song while still sung in Cantonese. This shows its diversity.
(c) ‘Hong Kong local culture and foreign cultures gave and received one another.’ Do you
agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]
Examples of exported Hong Kong local culture:

e.g. - Hong Kong singers would release albums in foreign countries. (Source A)
- Hong Kong singers were highly respected by foreigners. (Source A)
- Cantopop received popularity since the 1980s, and its influence spread to China,
Taiwan, Japan, Southeast Asia, and North America. (Source B)

- Hong Kong singers went on world tours to spread their songs worldwide (e.g.
Leslie Cheung, Faye Wong, Jacky Cheung, etc). (own knowledge)
- In the second half of the 20th century, the Hong Kong films thrived and earned
the reputation of ‘Eastern Hollywood’. Elements of Hong Kong’s martial arts
emerged in Western action films as well. (own knowledge)
Examples of imported foreign cultures:

e.g. - Cantopop has incorporated elements of different music cultures. (Source B)
- Chefs in Cha chaan tengs would cook foreign food in a Chinese way. Examples
included yuan yang, egg tarts, stir-fried spaghetti with beef, BBQ pork buns, etc.
(own knowledge)
- Many important buildings built during the British rule left in Hong Kong were
built in Western architectural styles (e.g. the Legislative Council Building, the
Court of Final Appeal Building, etc.). (own knowledge)
- Foreign religions such as Christianity are practised in Hong Kong. (own
knowledge)
- Many people would adopt Western rituals on occasions such as wedding or
funeral. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following is adapted from a commentary on Hong Kong films.
The kung fu craze of the 1970s brought Hong Kong cinema to international attention and
created, however tenuously, an interested overseas audience of non-Chinese-speaking film fans.
Bruce Lee became a Hollywood superstar, the first man of Chinese descent to achieve that
status. Lee’s untimely death hurt not only the martial arts craze he helped create in the United
States but adversely affected the Hong Kong film industry as well. When Jackie Chan emerged
as a superstar in Hong Kong and the rest of Asia in the late 1970s, American producers tried to
make him into a Hollywood star with films like The Big Brawl and Cannonball Run in the early
1980s. Fortunately, their attempt failed, as Chan made some of his finest films in Hong Kong in
the late 1980s, carrying on the kung fu tradition made famous by Lee.
Source B
The following passage is about the early development of Cantopop.
In those days, compared to its competitor America, Cantonese pop songs lagged behind in the
areas of composition, lyrics, singing, accompaniment, recording, distribution, and marketing.
The American pop music was of high quality and was the role model adored by local artists.
Mandarin pop songs appeared in the 1920s in Shanghai. It had already been on track after many
years of development. After 1952, EMI Hong Kong recruited the whole team which made
Mandarin pop songs a success. Another new era for Mandarin pop songs then began in a new
and well-equipped studio in Causeway Bay (though the soundproof facility was heard to be
unsatisfactory). Mandarin pop songs soon had great results. Compared to the Mandarin
counterpart, Cantonese pop songs developed later with smaller scale and poorer production. The
products of Cantonese pop songs had defects and it could only made little waves from time to
time instead of making a great hit.
Source C
The following extract is adapted from the dissertation written by James Wong (黃霑).
In terms of quality, American music was unrivalled. Hong Kong and Shanghai could hardly be
placed in line with America. The difference was so obvious that even those who knew nothing
about music could identify in their first experience. Although there was the language barrier,
American pop music still remained unbeatable. Neither Cantonese opera nor Cantonese pop
music could compete with American pop music. American pop industry had an absolute

advantage in terms of talents and capital.
(a) According to Source A, identify two characteristics of Hong Kong film development in the
period 1970s-1980s. Explain your answer with reference to Source A. (4 marks)
(b) What was the view of the author of Source B towards Cantopop? Explain your answer with
reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) Do you agree that Western culture have remained dominant in Hong Kong culture? Explain
your answer with reference to Sources A, B and C, and using your own knowledge.
(8 marks)

Answer
(a) Identify two characteristics of Hong Kong film development in the period 1970s-1980s
[4 marks]
Source. [max. 2]
[max. 4]
e.g. - Ku fung films were the mainstream. (The kung fu craze of the 1970s brought the
Hong Kong cinema to international attention.)
- Actors were cultivated as movie stars for entering the market of Hollywood.
(Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan were cultivated as Hollywood superstars and
became very popular in the US.)
(b) What was the view of the author of Source B towards Cantopop? [3 marks]
One mark for valid nature and two marks for valid explanation
View:
e.g. - The production of Cantonese pop songs could hardly compete with its American
counterpart.
Explanation:
e.g. - Cantonese pop songs lagged behind in the areas of composition, lyrics, singing,
accompaniment, recording, distribution, and marketing compared to American
pop.
- When Cantonese pop song started to develop, Mandarin America pop songs had
already developed with fair achievements.
(c) Do you agree that Western culture have remained dominant in Hong Kong culture?
[8 marks]
[max. 2]
examples. [max. 8]

Agree:
e.g. - Hong Kong movie stars such as Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan were dedicated to
enter Hollywood. (Source A)
- The early development of Cantonese pop music was weaker than its western
rivalries in many areas. (Source B)
- The quality of American pop music was a role model adored by many local
artists. (Source B)
- Hong Kong films were always influenced by foreign cultures. For example, the
series of ‘Aces Go Places’, a big hit in the 1980s, was inspired by Hollywood
films featuring James Bond. (own knowledge)
- Many local pop songs were adapted from their foreign counterparts. (own
knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - Hong Kong films created the kung fu craze in the US. (Source A)
- Bruce Lee made kung fu film a cultural characteristic of Hong Kong cinema and
became renowned overseas. (Source A)
- Following the surging popularity of Bruce Lee in the West in the early 1970s,
elements of Hong Kong’s martial arts emerged in Western action films. (own
knowledge)
- Many popular Cantonese pop songs with local characteristics remain popular
today such as Below the Lion Rock. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is about the Tai Hang fire dragon dance.
The Tai Hang fire dragon dance had been traditionally supported by funds from the
neighbourhoods, but the cost reached 400,000 dollars. Moreover, due to urban renewal, many
neighbours moved out and this resulted in the difficulty in fund-raising. Since the Tai Hang fire
dragon dance had been inscribed on the national list of intangible cultural heritage, it caught the
attention of the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, which sponsored it for 190,000 dollars
for the first time. Together with the amount of 190,000 dollars from fund-raising, this traditional
activity could thus be preserved.
Source B
The following passage is about the development of Cantonese opera in Hong Kong.
In the past, performers of Cantonese opera focused on their skills to express the emotions of the
characters. Therefore, with a simple bamboo theatre, a spectacular Cantonese opera could be
performed. As technology developed, however, some performers thought that the opera
companies over emphasised on stage technology, gradually altered the traditional ways of
Cantonese opera and lowered the artistic level. … Similarly, Dr. Chan Sau Yan of the Chinese
Opera Information Centre of the CUHK also disagreed to include too much Western technology
and culture into Cantonese opera. ‘The most important thing is to make people understand the
unique features of the traditional art of Cantonese opera, such as singing, speech, movement and
martial arts, rather than making gimmicks by using laser lights and fancy stage effects. Don’t
people appreciate Cantonese opera without all these things?’ He believed that tourists would not
be interested in Western opera in a Hong Kong style. Cantonese opera can only attract tourists by
preserving its traditional features.
(a) According to Source A, what were the advantages of being inscribed on the national list of
intangible cultural heritage for the Tai Hang fire dragon dance? Explain your answer with
(b) According to Source B, what was the attitude of Dr. Chan Sau Yan towards the integration of
Western culture into Cantonese opera? Explain your answer with reference to his language
and arguments used in Source B. (4 marks)
(c) Do you agree that the biggest obstacle to the protection of local cultural heritage is the threat
of foreign culture? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using your

own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) What were the advantages of being inscribed on the national list of intangible cultural
heritage for the Tai Hang fire dragon dance? [3 marks]

e.g. - After being inscribed on the national list of intangible cultural heritage, the Tai
Hang fire dragon dance got more attentions. It was sponsored by the Hong Kong
Jockey Club Charities Trust and had more funds for preserving the custom.
(b) What was the attitude of Dr. Chan Sau Yan towards the integration of Western culture into
Cantonese opera? [4 marks]
Attitude: Opposing / Negative
L1 Vague answer, unable to make good use of the language or arguments used in the
Source to explain the answer. [max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to make good use of the language and arguments used in the Source
to explain the answer. [max. 4]
Language:
e.g. - ‘Gimmicks’ (to describe laser lights and fancy stage effects).
- ‘Don’t people appreciate Cantonese opera without all these things?’ (to show
that Western culture was unimportant to Cantonese opera).
Arguments:
e.g. - He believed that introducing the traditional art of Cantonese opera to people was
more important than integrating Western stage technology into Cantonese opera.
- Tourists would not be interested in Western opera in a Hong Kong style.
Therefore, we do not need to introduce Western culture into Cantonese opera in
order to attract them.
(c) Do you agree that the biggest obstacle to the protection of local cultural heritage is the
threat of foreign culture? [8 marks]
[max. 2]

examples. [max. 8]
Threat of foreign culture:

e.g. - Much emphasis was put on Western stage technology which changed the
traditional features of Cantonese opera and lowered the artistic level. (Source B)
- Many young people preferred Western culture. They no longer followed the
traditions and customs strictly. (own knowledge)
Other factors:
e.g. - Shortage of funds: The cost of the Tai Hang fire dragon dance was high and the
organisers often faced the difficulty in fund-raising. (Source A)
- Changes in community: Urban renewal destroyed the original community
network, resulting in the loss of neighbours’ support to the preservation of local
cultural heritage. (Source A)
- Industrialisation of tourism: The traditional features of Cantonese opera were
changed in order to attract tourists. (Source B)
- Pursuit of economic interests: Preserving cultural heritage often contradicted to
the pursuit of economic benefits. Some of the owners preferred rebuilding
historic monuments into commercial buildings, such as Tung Tak Pawn Shop in
Wan Chai. (own knowledge)
- Changes in economic structure: Some of the traditions and customs originated
from the old industries in Hong Kong, such as farming and fishery. As the
economic structure in Hong Kong changed, these traditions and customs
gradually declined and could not be preserved. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following passage is about the history of Lee Tung Street, Wan Chai.
Before being part of the redevelopment project of the government, Lee Tung Street was a place
where people could enjoy a street view of the 1950s and 1960s in Hong Kong. Lee Tung Street
was also known as Wedding Card Street or Printing Street since it was famed as a centre for
printing wedding cards in Hong Kong. Locals liked to order wedding cards there prior to their
wedding ceremony. Except a number of high rises facing towards Johnston Road and Queen
Road East, all the buildings in Lee Tung Street were ‘tong lau’ apartments built in the 1950s and
1960s. They were uniform and people could pass through one rooftop from another. Apart from
the printing of wedding cards, there were also different print shops. It was the most popular
place for Hong Kong people to place their print orders.
Source B
The following picture shows the department store built after the redevelopment of Lee Tung
Street. Most of the shops will be selling fashions and cosmetics. There will also be Western-style
restaurants.

Source C
The following passage is about the influence of the Dragon Boat Festival on Western countries.
In recent years, the Dragon Boat Festival has gradually been accepted by the US and the
European countries. Although some of the Western countries do not celebrate this festival, they
start to become enthusiastic about dragon boat racing, which is a symbolic activity of the Dragon
Boat Festival. … Nowadays, dragon boat racing has become popular in the US and it is one of
the fastest-growing sports. Many places have formed their own dragon boat teams.
(a) Identify from Source A two historical and cultural values of Lee Tung Street. Explain your
(b) According to Source B, do you think the historical and cultural values of Lee Tung Street
you identified in (a) could be preserved after the redevelopment? Explain your answer with
reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) ‘The spread of foreign culture in Hong Kong is unfavourable to the preservation and
development of local cultural heritage.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer with reference
to Sources A and B, and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

Answer
(a) Two historical and cultural values of Lee Tung Street. [4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, able to identify one value only or ineffective in using the Source.
[max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to identify two values with effective use of the Source.
[max. 4]
e.g. - Lee Tung Street was also known as Wedding Card Street. Hong Kong people
liked ordering wedding cards there. It was part of the wedding culture of Hong
Kong.
- Lee Tung Street was the centre for printing wedding cards in Hong Kong and
had witnessed the development of printing industry in Hong Kong.
- The buildings in Lee Tung Street were mostly ‘tong lau’ apartments of the 1950s
and 1960s.
(b) Do you think the historical and cultural values of Lee Tung Street you identified in (a)
could be preserved after the redevelopment? [3 marks]

e.g. - According to Source A, Lee Tung Street was an old urban area before renewal.
Most of the buildings were ‘tong lau’ apartments of the 1950s and 1960s. There
were many wedding card shops and print shops along the street.
- According to Source B, all ‘tong lau’ apartments were torn down after renewal.
The new department store is in European style. Shops will be moving there and
selling fashions and cosmetics. There will also be Western-style restaurants.
They are not related to wedding.
(c) ‘The spread of foreign culture in Hong Kong is unfavourable to the preservation and
development of local cultural heritage.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]

examples. [max. 8]
Agree:
e.g. - After renewal, the ‘tong lau’ apartments in Lee Tung Street have been torn down
and a European-style department store has been built. The original buildings in a
local style were lost. (Sources A and B)
- People have paid more attention to Western festivals than traditional Chinese
festivals. For example, most Hong Kong people pay more attention to Western
Valentine’s Day than the Chinese Lantern Festival. Customs of traditional
festivals gradually disappear. (own knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - Foreign culture can help promote the local culture of Hong Kong to foreign
countries. For example, dragon boat racing has been developed as a sport in the
US. The traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival can be shown to the world. This
has promoted the development of our local culture. (Source C)
- Chinese and foreign cultures can co-exist and interact to form a new local
culture. For example, it is common for the chef in a cha chaan teng to cook
foreign food, such as spaghetti, instant noodles and udon, in a Chinese way. A
unique food culture has thus created. (own knowledge)
- The spread of foreign culture can strengthen people’s awareness on the
preservation of local culture. People have actively taken measures to protect
local culture in response to the threat of foreign culture. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following is adapted from a scholar’s commentary on the Chinese culture in Hong Kong.
British colonial rule, which lasted for about 150 years, had posed a great impact on Hong Kong.
Despite the fact that the colonial culture still has its own market in Hong Kong nowadays, it
cannot represent the essence of Hong Kong culture. Professor Cheng Pei-kai said, ‘From the
very beginning, Chinese culture was the essence of Hong Kong culture. … Today, Hong Kong
still keeps some superstitious forms of culture, such as ‘petty person beating’. They do not
greatly influence the society, but only reflect the way of living of the middle and working class.
They do not show that Chinese culture is the mainstream in Hong Kong. Instead, they show that
Chinese culture and traditions have been deeply rooted in the society.’
Source B
The following passage is about the changes in the traditions and customs of Hong Kong.
Some of the young people no longer accepted and defended the traditions and customs which
the older generations favoured. There were many aspects showing that the traditions and
customs faded away, such as the rituals of wedding and funeral, as well as the principles of
interpersonal communication. A scholar once said, ‘The traditional human relations still exist in
Hong Kong society, but traditions and customs has changed in essence. For example, the habits
of celebrating festivals and giving cash gifts in joyous events were not the same as the past but
became standardised and commercialised.’
Source C
The following table shows some of the items inscribed on the first intangible cultural heritage
inventory of Hong Kong.
Domain Items
Oral traditions and - Cantonese
expressions - Hakka dialect
- Fujian dialect
Performing arts - Lion dance
- Unicorn dance
- Cantonese opera
Social practices, rituals and - Spring and autumn ancestral worship of lineage in the New
festive events Territories
- Tin Hau Festival

- Yu Lan Festival
- Dajiao（太平清醮）
- Diwali (Festival of Lights) *
- Teej (Festival of Women)**
Knowledge and practices - Herbal tea
concerning nature and - Bone setting （鐵打）
the universe
Traditional craftsmanship - Moon cake making technique
- Betrothal cakes making technique
- Glutinous rice dumpling making technique
- Yung Yan mixed milk tea and coffee making technique
- Flower Board Crafting Technique
* Diwali is a Hindu festival organised during the Hindu month of Ashwayuja to pray for lord’s blessing. In Hong
Kong, it is held at the Hindu Temple in Happy Valley.
** Hong Kong Integrated Nepalese Society Limited organises Teej every year. The majority of participants are
Nepalese women who wear traditional costumes, sing, and dance during the festival.
(a) With reference to Sources A and B, compare the views between the two scholars towards the
Chinese culture in Hong Kong. (4 marks)
(b) Select two items of intangible cultural heritage of Hong Kong from Source C. Using your
own knowledge, explain what features of Chinese culture are shown in these two items.
(4 marks)
(c) Do you agree that Chinese culture is the essence of Hong Kong culture nowadays? Explain
your answer with reference to Sources A, B and C, and using your own knowledge.
(8 marks)

Answer
(a) With reference to Sources A and B, compare the views between the two scholars towards
the Chinese culture in Hong Kong. [4 marks]
L1 Attempts to draw comparisons, but vague in explanation with reference to the Sources.
[max. 2]
L2 Able to draw valid comparisons with effective explanation with reference to the
Sources. [max. 4]
Similarity:
e.g. - Both scholars in Sources A and B thought that Hong Kong was influenced by
Chinese culture.
Difference:
e.g. - The scholar in Source A thought that Hong Kong society still kept the Chinese
culture and traditions, while the scholar in Source B thought that Chinese culture
and traditions in Hong Kong has changed in essence.
(b) Select two items of intangible cultural heritage of Hong Kong from Source C. [4 marks]
L1 Vague answer, explaining one item only with ineffective use of own knowledge.
[max. 2]
L2 Clear answer explaining two items with effective use of own knowledge. [max. 4]
e.g. - Spring and autumn ancestral worship of lineage in the New Territories shows the
feature of worshipping ancestors and the emphasis on filial piety in Chinese
culture.
- Tin Hau Festival shows the Chinese tradition of worshipping gods.
- The themes of Cantonese opera are mainly Chinese historical tales and the
music is played by Chinese instruments.
- Herbal tea is the achievement of the culture of traditional Chinese medicine.
(c) Do you agree that Chinese culture is the essence of Hong Kong culture nowadays?
[8 marks]
[max. 2]

examples. [max. 8]
Agree:
e.g. - Hong Kong still kept some superstitious forms of culture, such as ‘petty person
beating’. This showed that Chinese culture and traditions has been deeply rooted
in the society. (Source A)
- Many items of intangible cultural heritage of Hong Kong reflect Chinese culture
and traditions. (Source C and own knowledge)
- Hong Kong is a Chinese society, in which 98% of the population is ethnic
Chinese. Thus Chinese culture and values are deep-rooted. (own knowledge)
Disagree:
e.g. - Hong Kong was under British colonial rule for about 150 years. (Source A)
People embraced Western values such as democracy, freedom and rule of law.
(own knowledge)
- Chinese culture was only shown as a way of living of the middle and working
class. It did not represent the mainstream in Hong Kong. (Source A)
- Some of the young people no longer accepted and defended the traditions and
customs which the old generations favoured. Traditions and customs became
standardised and commercialised. (Source B)
- Festivals of India and Nepal were also inscribed on the first intangible cultural
heritage inventory of Hong Kong, showing a pluralist nature in Hong Kong
culture. (Source C)

Source A
The following table shows the background of some members of the Xingzhonghui.
Members Background
Chan Siu-bak Studied Chinese classics and graduated from the Christian College in China
in Guangzhou and the Hong Kong College of Medicine.
Yau Lit Graduated from the Canton Academy of Mathematics, previously worked
as a surveying officer in Guangzhou Survey and Mapping Office, later
secretary at the Secretariat for Chinese Affairs of Hong Kong.
Au Fung-chi Missionary, Sun Yixian’s teacher of Chinese literature, later the Secretary
of the Department of Chinese Affairs.
Yeung Ku-wan Was born in Hong Kong, graduated from St. Paul’s College and held
positions of teacher, secretary and manager in foreign company.
Tse Tsan-tai Was born in Australia, graduated from the Government Central School and
held the position of secretary in the Public Works Department.
Wong Wing- Was born in a well-known Hong Kong family, son of Legislative
sheung Councillor Wong Shing, graduated from the Government Central School.
Li Ki-tong Son of Hong Kong’s tycoon Li Sing, merchandiser in foreign company.
Source B
The following passage is adapted from a book on Hong Kong history.
The wake of the 1911 revolution left the colonial government anxious about revolutionary
activities in China and Hong Kong. In 1913, Governor May pushed through his Education Bill,
which required all private schools to register with the government. Although May claimed that
his intention was to improve the standard of education in these schools, his correspondence with
the Colonial Office shows that he was trying to keep schools from becoming centers for anti-
British propaganda. The Seditious Publications Ordinance of 1914 was aimed at any publications
that might undermine the stability of Hong Kong or China.
(a) Infer two characteristics of the members of the Xingzhonghui. Explain your answer with
(b) Identify from Source B one concern of the British government over the 1911 Revolution.
Explain your answer with reference to Source B. (3 marks)
(c) ‘In the first half of the 20th century, interactions between Hong Kong’s development and the
mainland’s development only took place in political aspect.’ Do you agree? Explain your

Answer
(a) Two characteristics of the members of the Xingzhonghui [4 marks]
Source. [max. 2]
[max. 4]
e.g. - They were educated intellectuals (a majority of them had gone to Western
schools, some of them were even teachers).
. - They had close ties with Hong Kong (some of them were born and received
education in Hong Kong. Yau Lit and Au Fung-chi worked at the Secretariat for
Chinese Affairs of Hong Kong).
. - They had influential background (Wong Wing-sheung and Li Ki-tong both came
from well-known family).
(b) One concern of the British government over the 1911 Revolution [3 marks]
One mark for valid answer and two marks for valid explanation
Answer:
e.g. - The impact of the 1911 revolution on Hong Kong
Explanation:
e.g. - In 1913, Governor May pushed through his Education Bill requiring all private
schools to register with the government in order to keep schools from becoming
centers for anti-British propaganda.
- The Seditious Publications Ordinance of 1914 was aimed at any publications
that might undermine the stability of Hong Kong or China.
(c) ‘In the first half of the 20th century, interactions between Hong Kong’s development and
the mainland’s development only took place in political aspect.’ Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]

examples. [max. 8]
Political aspect:
e.g. - Hong Kong served as the base for the Chinese revolutionaries, who had close
ties with Hong Kong, to organise revolutionary activities. (Source A)
- Political situation in the mainland became a factor affecting Hong Kong local
policies. (Source B)
- Hong Kong workers took part in the Guangdong-Hong Kong General Strike.
Their actions were supported by the mainland. (own knowledge)
- Hong Kong served as the base for supporting mainland patriotic campaigns and
the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. (own knowledge)
Other aspects:
e.g. - In economic aspect, Hong Kong was an important entrepot of the mainland.
(own knowledge)
- In social aspect, Hong Kong as a refuge for the mainlanders. (own knowledge)

Source A
The following extract is about a newspaper published in Hong Kong in the early 20th century.
Among all the Chinese newspapers in Hong Kong, the China Daily played an important role in
the 1911 Revolution. After the Guangzhou Uprising had failed in 1895, Sun Yixian sent Chen
Shaobai and others to Hong Kong to encourage ‘the use of writing to promote revolution’. In
January 1900, the China Daily was founded at 24 Stanley Street, Central. The newspaper
criticised the corrupt and inefficient rule of the Qing government, and introduced the Western
ideas of liberty, equality and human rights to the Chinese people. It was very popular among the
readers. After the 1911 Revolution, the newspaper was relocated to Guangzhou, but was later
banned by Long Jiguang (a warlord) in August 1913. Although the China Daily had existed for
only about 10 years, it had an important status in the modern history of Chinese periodicals.
Source B
The following extract is adapted from a speech made by Rayson Huang, the ex-principal of the
University of Hong Kong, in June 1991.
When Guangzhou was occupied by Japan during 1939-1941, the Lingnan University in
Guangzhou was forced to move to Hong Kong. The University of Hong Kong gave a helping
hand by lending its campus to the Lingnan University after 5 p.m. every day despite the fact that
there had been no connection between the two universities in the past… Later on, when Hong
Kong was occupied by the Japanese, many students of the Hong Kong University fled to the
mainland. The Lingnan University, which had already been relocated to the northern part of
Guangdong province, admitted some of these students (including my brother). These incidents
showed the close relationship between Hong Kong and the mainland.
(a) According to Source A, infer the nature of the relations between Hong Kong and the
mainland. Explain your answer with reference to Source A. (3 marks)
(b) What was the view of Rayson Huang towards the relations between Hong Kong and the
mainland? Explain your answer with reference to his language and arguments used in Source
B. (4 marks)
(c) ‘In the early 20th century, Hong Kong and the mainland mutually influenced each other.’ Do
you agree? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using your own

Answer
(a) Infer the nature of the relations between Hong Kong and the mainland. [3 marks]
Answer:
e.g. - Hong Kong was the base of revolutionary thoughts to the mainland.
Explanation:
e.g. - Revolutionaries founded the China Daily, which introduced the Western ideas of
liberty, equality and human rights to the Chinese people, in Hong Kong. Hong
Kong thus contributed to the success of the 1911 Revolution.
(b) What was the view of Rayson Huang towards the relations between Hong Kong and the
mainland? [3 marks]
View: Hong Kong and the mainland provided mutual help.
L1 Vague answer, unable to make good use of the language or arguments used in the
Source to explain the answer. [max. 2]
L2 Clear answer, able to make good use of the language and arguments used in the Source
to explain the answer. [max. 4]
Language:
e.g. - ‘helping hand’
Arguments:
e.g. - The University of Hong Kong lent its campus to the Lingnan University.
- The Lingnan University admitted students from The University of Hong Kong.
(c) ‘In the early 20th century, Hong Kong and the mainland mutually influenced each other.’
Do you agree? [8 marks]
[max. 2]

examples. [max. 8]
Sources:
e.g. - Revolutionaries founded the China Daily, which introduced the Western ideas of
liberty, equality and human rights to the Chinese people, in Hong Kong. Hong
Kong thus contributed to the success of the 1911 Revolution. (Source A)
- During WWII, the University of Hong Kong lent its campus to the Lingnan
University. The Lingnan University also admitted students from The University
of Hong Kong. (Source B)
Own knowledge:
e.g. - Hong Kong was a base for the war of resistance against the Japanese in the
mainland. It was a testing ground for ‘one country, two systems’ policy, etc.
- Hong Kong was a centre for re-exporting Chinese goods. Hong Kong and the
mainland provided export markets for each other and there were also two-way
investment and mutual benefits between the two places.
- Hong Kong was not only a refuge for people in the mainland, but also a
communication centre between overseas and the mainland Chinese. In addition,
it was a learning centre of Western knowledge for the mainland.

Source A
The following lyrics are the English translation of a song which is about Hong Kong during
China’s war of resistance against Japan.
Goodbye, Hong Kong.

The passage for travellers, the home for Chinese fishermen.
The paradise for pleasures seekers, the battlefield for revolutionary warriors.
There is wine of debauchery and blood of bravery.
There are women who sell their souls and girls who sacrifice for their motherland.
There are men with great desires and boys with visions for their country.
There are upstarts who spend money like water and merchants who sell their goods for charity
for three years.
The good comes from and the bad dies I the conflict.
Source B
The following is an extract from the poem ‘Hong Kong’, which was written in the early 1980s.
You are the pathway to and from the motherland.

You are the place where goods are traded.
You are the conduit through which friends connect.
You are the bridge to the rest of the world.
Over the years, you have contributed to the motherland
An immeasurable amount of wealth.
(a) According to Source A, what was the writer’s attitude on the contributions of Hong Kong
people to their motherland during the war? Explain your answer with reference to Source A.
(3 marks)
(b) What was the writer’s attitude towards Hong Kong in the 1980s in Source B? Explain your
(c) In the second half of the 20th century, what were the contributions of Hong Kong towards
the mainland? Explain your answer with reference to Sources A and B, and using your own

Answer
(a) What was the writer’s view on the contributions of Hong Kong people to their motherland
during the war? [3 marks]
Attitude:
e.g. - Positive/complimentary
Explanation:
e.g. - ‘blood of bravery’, ‘girls who sacrifice for their motherland’, ‘boys with visions
for their country’, ‘merchants who sell their goods for charity for three years’
were included in the lyrics.
(b) What was the writer’s attitude towards Hong Kong in the 1980s in Source B? [3 marks]
Attitude:
e.g. - Positive/complimentary
Explanation:
e.g. - Hong Kong has helped the country create ‘an immeasurable amount of wealth’.
(c) In the second half of the 20th century, what were the contributions of Hong Kong towards
the mainland? [9 marks]
[max. 3]
examples. [max. 9]
e.g. - Hong Kong had sacrificed a lot for their motherland during the war of resistance
against Japan. (Source A)
- Hong Kong is described as ‘the passage for travellers’. This shows that Hong
Kong is a bridge for the Chinese to go to the foreign countries. (Source A)

- Hong Kong is a home for Chinese from the mainland. (Source A)

- From the early 20th century to the Second World War, Hong Kong was an
important entrepot and trading partner of the mainland. (Source B and own
knowledge)
- After the mainland’s adoption of Reform and Opening-up in 1978, Hong Kong
provided capital, technology, expertise and management methods as well as
financial and legal services to mainland enterprises. (Source B and own
knowledge)
- After the mainland’s adoption of Reform and Opening-up in 1978, mainland
enterprises came to list their shares in Hong Kong’s stock market and set up
their headquarters in Hong Kong. (Source B and own knowledge)
- Hong Kong was a base for supporting patriotic campaigns in the mainland, such
as the May Fourth Movement, the Guangzhou-Hong Kong General Strike,
Defending Diaoyu Islands Movement and the June 4th Incident. (own
knowledge)
- When natural disasters happened in the mainland, Hong Kong always helped
raise funds for the mainlanders. (own knowledge)

Question Bank - Modernisation and Transformation of Hong Kong

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New Century World History Question Bank

1 Modernisation and Transformation of Hong Kong

1. Study Sources A, B and C.

© LING KEE PUBLISHING CO., LTD. 1

introducing measures which lacked the support of the local Chinese.

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Answers should be negative, or else it would be difficult to raise justifications.

L1 Vague answer with ineffective use of the Source. [max. 1]

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2. Study Sources A and B.

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© LING KEE PUBLISHING CO., LTD. 6

L1 Vague answer, ineffective in using the Source; or [max. 2]

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L2 Clear yet unbalanced argument, effective in using Sources or relevant historical

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3. Study Sources A and B.

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L1 Vague answer, with ineffective use of both Sources A and B; or [max. 2]

e.g. - Rich experience in administration in Hong Kong (Sources A and B)

© LING KEE PUBLISHING CO., LTD. 11

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4. Study Sources A and B.

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and B, and using your own knowledge. (8 marks)

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L1 Vague answer with ineffective use of the Source. [max. 1]

e.g. - The colonial government adopted conciliatory measures by absorbing the

Answers should be affirmative, or else it would be difficult to raise justifications.

© LING KEE PUBLISHING CO., LTD. 15

© LING KEE PUBLISHING CO., LTD. 16

5. Study Sources A and B.

Year Major developments

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examples only. [max. 4]

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6. Study Sources A and B.

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L1 Vague answer, ineffective in using the Source. [max. 1]

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Answers should be affirmative, or else it would be difficult to raise justifications.

© LING KEE PUBLISHING CO., LTD. 24

7. Study Sources A and B.

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Answer: To gain support from the local Chinese.

(b) How did Grantham evaluate the Young Plan? [4 marks]

L1 Vague answer, ineffective in using the Source. [max. 1]

Answers should be affirmative, or else it would be difficult to raise justifications.

© LING KEE PUBLISHING CO., LTD. 27

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8. Study Sources A and B.

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L1 Vague argument with ineffective use of the Source. [max. 2]

Change: From limited exchange to more frequent communication and contact.

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The government started to take serious consideration on labour problems and