11/12
Mr. Carter
CONFIDENTIAL
23
Essential Services Legislation:
Hong Kong
On first reading I wondered whether it was really worth while
re-enacting in Hong Kong an ordinance which was out of line with the action taken here by the repeal of the 1927 Trade Disputes Act (with consequent risk of public controversy), when the ordinance is on the Acting Governor's admission incapable of realistic enforcement. But
I have been persuaded by the arguments in paragraph 15 of your
submission that in the last resort we should let this legislation go
ahead and even at this stage be prepared to say so to the Acting
Governor.
Ackag
2. It follows from that tentative conclusion, however, that I am now uneasy about recommending to the Governor including in the legislation a provision providing for the collective withdrawal of
labour organised by a trade union. On the face of it this too would
seem to give notice to the Communists that they had a weapon in their
hand. But, as the model legislation has not been put up with these
papers I cannot judge whether this appréhension on my part is justified Could you let me see "the model"?
(L. Monson)
8 December, 1969
Copy to Mr. Wilford
Sir Leslie Monson.
altached
The "model" clauses are at Flag C in the pps.
:
the relevant provision is the proviso to Clause 1(1). Not to include this point might put in jeopardy the reluctant- agreement of the Labour Adviser to my proposals! He has
CONFIDENTIAL