CONFIDENTIAL
THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HER BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT
PMV(HK)(74)9
14 December 1973
COPY NO 56
PRIME MINISTER'S VISIT TO HONG KONG
12th-14th JANUARY, 1974
CORRUPTION
Brief by Foreign and Commonwealth Office
1.
For many years there have been allegations of corruption
in the Hong Kong Police and Public Services. In June this year, while action against him under the Prevention of Bribery
Ordinance was at an advanced stage, Chief Superintendent Godber
escaped from Hong Kong to the United Kingdom. This incident,
and our inability to return him (see Brief No 10), caused
widespread public indignation in Hong Kong. There was also
criticism in the British Press.
2. The Governor appointed Sir Alastair Blair-Kerr, the
senior Puisne Judge, to investigate the circumstances
surrounding Mr Godber's departure. Sir Alastair recommended
changes in the Law and Colonial Regulations in Hong Kong to
make it easier to deal with corrupt public servants; and the
amendment of the UK Fugitive Offenders Act to allow the return
of Mr Godber. He also pointed to the need for a new Anti-
Corruption Commission in Hong Kong, separate from the Police.
3. We have agreed with the Governor on changes in the Law
and Regulations governing the Public Service in Hong Kong,
which meet most of Sir Alastair's recommendations.
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CONFIDENTIAL
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