Mr Stevart
Steya
Jes
Reference
STAFF IN CONFIDENCE
HKK OLOL!
20. ST
MAD 1973
па
POSITION OF THE GOVERNOR OF HONG KONG
1. As expected, while I was in Hong Kong, many people asked me if I had any news about their next Governor. I stuck strictly to the line that I knew nothing. Most people then went on to say what they would like to see happen: by far the most popular move would be a further extension of the present Governor's tour (I understand from those close to him that Sir Murray would not be averse to this, though Lady Maclehose is thought to be rather more ready to retire to Scotland). After that, the preference would be for another official, who should have some previous experience of Hong Kong and be a specialist in Far Eastern affairs generally. There was considerable trepidation about the prospect of a "political" governor: it was made quite plain to me, especially by businessmen, that Hong Kong does not trust British politicians!
W.E. Chantill
WE Quantrill
Hong Kong and General Department 233-4381
6 March 1978
K247
cc: Mr H B Walker
POD
CODE 18.7
STAFF IN CONFIDENCE