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PERSONAL and CONFIDENTIAL
4
Hong Kong is so much "sui generis"
there is no need exactly to reproduce
the machinery that has been evolved
elsewhere. It strikes me, nevertheless,
that the "Ombudsman" concept is
particularly suitable for the circum-
stances of Hong Kong. The new Office
would of course have to be quite
separate from the normal machinery of
government and I am sure the
"Commissioner" would have to report to
you personally. The Parliamentary
Commissioner here has certain
restrictions on his activities and it
will be necessary to consider what
restrictions should be placed on the
"Ombudsman" in Hong Kong. I am
arranging therefore for the Parliament. ary Commissioner to be consulted about
these proposals and our considered
views in the light of this consultation
will be sent to you as soon as
possible. Meanwhile, I should be
grateful if you would consider the
best way of reviving this issue with
your unofficial advisers.
6.
will be in touch with you about this.
I have agreed with Anthony Royle that
he should visit Hong Kong in October and he
He is
anxious to discuss the situation generally
with you before you go on leave, but I
should hope that by the time of his visit
at the latest it will be possible to
announce decisions on primary education,
an accelerated housing programme and the
appointment of an Ombudsman.
A AVERE NAT
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