the next eighteen months or so which are
likely to be very direct. Second, and
this is perhaps rather a corrollary of
the first, it is of fundamental
importance to our position in Hong Kong
that we should inspire and maintain
public confidence in the Colony. In
view of the real trust which the Chinese
inhabitants in particular repose in
Sir David, an extension of his term of
office would in present circumstances be
regarded locally
and elsewhere
as
reassurance of the continuing steadfastness
of our policy there. Third, the
traditional source of Colonial Governors,
the Overseas Service, has virtually dried
up and an additional year's grace
would give us valuable time to consider
the next appointment which, in the
history of the Colony is likely to be a
crucial one. Fourth, the Colonial
Secretary in Hong Kong is to be offered
the post of High Commissioner for the
estern Pacific when the present High
Commissioner, Sir Robert Foster, is
transferred to Fiji at the end of this
year. In the present circumstances there
would be obvious dangers to Hong Kong if
STAFF IN CONFIDENCE
/both