CONFIDENTIAL
C
NEW TERRITORIES: HEUNG YEE KUK
1. A large delegation from the New Territories visited the
United Kingdom in June as guests of the Chamber of Chinese
Traders. Mr Royle hosted a Reception for the delegation at
Lancaster House and the Chairman, accompanied by 7 other
members of the delegation, called on Mr Royle on 19 June.
2.
At this meeting the Chairman expressed the Heung Yee Kuk's
fears about the implications of the McKinsey Report on the
affairs of the New Territories. The post-McKinsey reorgani-
sation splits up responsibilities for New Territory admini-
stration between the Secretaries of the Environment, Housing
and Home Affairs. The Heung Yee Kuk set up a Sub-committee
on the question and have now submitted their views in a letter
to the Governor. They have recommended the appointment of a
"Secretary for New Territory Affairs" of equal status and not
subordinate to the Secretaries for Home Affairs, Environment,
Economics, Housing, Security and Social Services. They suggest
he should concurrently be the District Commissioner, New
Territories.
3.
If the question comes up, Mr Royle might like to ask the
Governor how he thinks the Heung Yee Kuk will react if he is
unable to meet their wishes, and the position of the District
Commissioner remains diminished. Would this be likely
seriously to affect good relations and co-operation between
the Hong Kong Government and the New Territories?
Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Department
7 September 1973
CONFIDENTIAL