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CONFIDENTIAL
Protocol and Conference Department.
6 February, 1969.
16.
We have for some time been considering, in consultation with the Governor of Hong Kong, a proposal that the Hong Kong Police and Auxiliary Police Forces should be accorded the prefix "Royal" in their titles. This suggestion was put forward by the Governor with a complementary suggestion, as an essential ingredient that a member of the Royal Family should be approached to accept the appointment in an honorary capacity of "Commandant General" of the two Forces. It is felt that the adoption of these proposals would constitute a fitting tribute to the Hong Kong police for their devotion to duty, particularly during the Communist inspired disturbances which took place in the Colony during 1967. It would also serve to remind the people of Hong Kong, in their remote and isolated position, that Her Majesty and Her Majesty's Government, continue to take a deep interest in the well-being of the Colony and its inhabitants.
The reason for putting forward these two proposals together stems from the fact that the two Forces are made up of both Chinese and European members. It is thought that the Chinese members, while not entirely understanding the significance of the prefix "Royal" would better understand and value the feeling that a member of the Royal Family had a personal connection with and interest in the Force.
As regards the proposed appointment of a member of the Royal Family as honorary "Commandant General" we would hope that which- ever Royal personage was concerned would find it possible to pay an occasional (if only a very occasional) visit to the Colony. You will be aware, from the correspondence concerning the possib- ility of a Royal Visit to the Colony last year, that there are good grounds for believing that a visit by Her Majesty The Queen or His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh to Hong Kong will not be practicable in the foreseeable future. For this reason we would
acap. 612.
Lieutenant-Colonel
The Right Honourable
Sir Michael Ade ane, P.C., G.C.V.0., K.C.B.,
Buckingham Palace.
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