CONFIDENTIAL
The views of the Governor on these recommendations are not yet
known, but a good case for supplementation can be based on the
continuing need to strengthen the overseas element in the Hong
Kong Service and to improve its calibre to ensure the good
management of the Colony. There are serious political objections
in Hong Kong to the use of Hong Kong funds to pay expatriate
officers more than local officers.
FORWARD STAFF PLANNING
12. The FCO are preparing estimates of future needs for expatriate
administrative staff in all dependent territories. Whilst Hong
Kong's difficulties in making such an assessment are understood, an
estimate of their future needs of overseas administrative officers
is now urgently required if the FCO is to be in a position to help
with planned recruitment and training in the UK. It is hoped to
have discussions with a senior officer from Hong Kong (the Establish-
ment Secretary) on these staffing problems in London in March next.
13. A note on the Civil Service strength and the Salaries Commission's
recommendations is attached as an appendix.
6
CONFIDENTIAL
Page 60Page 61