CONFIDENTIAL
The Death Penalty
11.
No death sentence has been carried out in Hong Kong
since 1966, but the death penalty still exists under Hong Kong
law. The Royal Prerogative of Mercy is delegated to the
Governor, under the Royal Instructions and Letters Patent.
There was a difficult case last year when the Governor was
overruled from London by the use of the residual Royal Prerogative.
We are submitting separately on the future of the death penalty.
Meanwhile I recommend that Ministers should use the line
suggested in the notes for supplementaries.
Sterling Guarantee Arrangements
12.
This is primarily a subject for the Treasury.
The Chancellor has just told Hong Kong, along with other
sterling holders, that he will extend for the remainder of
1974, with some modifications, the present arrangements
whereby the value of Hong Kong's sterling balances is
guaranteed by HMG. This will almost certainly be acceptable
to Hong Kong, as it is on the lines they have suggested.
Chinese Representation in Hong Kong
13.
A note prepared by Far Eastern Department is
attached.
Immigration from China into Hong Kong
14.
A note by Far Eastern Department is attached.
CONFIDENTIAL
/The Future