CONFIDENTIAL

5. I do not believe there is a chance of a change to the

"normal" pattern of Governor as reconciliator of interests

until Sir David Trench's successor takes over but that then,

since the Civil Service generally take their tone from the

top, we may hope for an improvement.

6. In the meantime, the Political Adviser can exercice

some influence provided that he is careful to mairtain the

posture that he is the Governor's servant and not that of

H.N.G. Mr. Maddocks is astute at playing this hand and

it has also to be accepted that he is regarded primarily as

an expert in Chinese affairs.

7

The Trade Commissioner ought to have a rôle in briefing

the Governor on our wider economic considerations, but the

opportunity for him to do this will also in my view have to

wait on a change of Governorship and oven then will require

delicate handling to bring into effect.

CONFIDENTIAL

(L. Konson)

20 October,1970

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