CONFIDENT JAL
12. In an exchange of views with Hong Kong during 1965 and 1966, the policy was laid down and accepted by Hong Kong that transfers to the Judiciary (including transfers on an initial probationary basis) were permissible, but that short-term secondments should take place only when staffing exigencies so require. It is noteworthy that there have been only three transfers from the Legal Department to the Judiciary since the war, and none to the Supreme Court Bench. There is no information about secondments, but liong Kong has confirmed that the policy laid down in 1966 is being followed. Sir James McPetrie
has noted this. The Department does not consider that my changes in policy are necessary or desirable.
Correspondence with Mr. de Basto
13. It is suggested that while the Kinister is in Hong Kong a reply should be sent to Mr. de Basto on the lines of the attached draft.
Hong Kong Department 29 May, 1969
CONFIDENTIAL