4
11.
Nevertheless a decision in favour of Cater
would come as a definite disappointment to Haddon-Cave. It could possibly lead to his resignation. But his loyalty to Hong Kong, and to some extent to me personally, would, I think, combine to prevent any hasty action.
12.
To sum up therefore I recommend:-
a)
that Sir Denys Roberts should succeed Sir Geoffrey Briggs on the latter's retirement in March 1979;
b)
that Cater should succeed Sir Denys by October/November of this year.
13. If you could let me have your agreement in principle, I think it would be prudent to sound out the senior member of Executive Council before going firm. There would be no hurry about an announcement which could be postponed until the late summer.
14.
Once I have your agreement to the above in principle, I will take up the question of a successor to Cater as Commissioner Against Corruption.
HBC Keeble Esq
Chief Clerk
Foreign & Commonwealth Office London SW1