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Mr Morrice
1.
2.
This reached me on 22 July so I have dealt with in haste.
The Mr Rushforth referred to is evidently myself.
3. I see only one point of disagreement, viz. whether freeholds, leases expiring after 1997 can be granted without legislation. I accept that this is arguable - it would be a simple matter to resolve the doubt by prorogative Order in Council.
4. The Lord Chancellor has no interest in this matter and it would be quite inappropriate to involve his office.
5. Having previously consulted the Law Officers, we should consult them again when the policy is clear.
6. Possibly an officer from the Attorney-General's chambers could be persuaded to join in a meeting between Mr Griffiths and myself. I have no objection if HKGD is represented, but any paper should be written afterwards.
ARR.
AR Rushford Deputy Legal Adviser
22 July 1980
P.S. I have written to the Law Officers' Dept as in copy letter below.
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