Reference...
HK K 14/1
Confidential
covering
Secret
Mr Rushford (Legal Advisers
DEATH PENALTY
T
LIU CHU
K 188)
Flags
20-32)
C
(19) 26/1(29) ૧(૨૧)
We should be grateful for your advice on the attached three telegrams from the Governor (Hong Kong Telegrams Nos. 223, 234 and 235). These refer to
FCO telegrams Nos. 106, 135 and 159.
In particular, we should be glad to know whether, in your view, the arguments in Hong Kong Telegram No. 223 dispose of any arguments for mitigation on the grounds of Self defence or manslaughter, or desperation due to extreme poverty.
Also, your comments on para 3A of Hong Kong Telegram No. 224; and whether you consider we should consult the Home Office again on any or all of the points raised by the Governor.
In the light of your views, we shall have to consider a reply to the Governor's request that he might now consult ExCo informally on the prisoner's history of drug addiction as a realistic ground for commutation. We are consulting Mr. Youde about the timing of our reply.
in fact
h
18
19 February 1974
P.M. Kelley
P. M. Kelly (Miss)
Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Dept.
K 245
Tel. MA x 632
+
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