RESTRICTED
4. In recent years Almeida e Costa has been a member of the Council of Revolution and was reputed to have good relations with Sá Carneiro. He split with the late Prime Minister over the proposal of the AD to sponsor the candidature of Soares Carneiro in the December 1980 Presidential elections. His appointment reflects his continuing closeness to Eanes. In his dealings with the Embassy we have found him to be rather reserved and of moderate views. He is respected by the great majority of naval officers as a member of the CR who could be relied upon to reflect the views of Admiral Sousa Leitão, the popular Chief of Naval Staff.
5.
Certain press comment in Portugal has drawn attention to the fact that the Democratic Alliance constitutional reform proposals wish to make the choice of the Governor of Macao dependent on the government's decision rather than that of the President. If this proposal is accepted in the constitutional reform package later this year it may be that the government will chose to replace Almeida e Costa with a nominee of their
Much would seem to depend on his conduct in the first few months as Governor. It will be interesting to hear from Macao how he tackles the not inconsiderable list of problems which have built up since Melo Egidio left.
own.
Your ever,
and
1. Paul Have
P W Hare
Cc:
Miss M Wilkin SED
P Morrice Esq, HK&GD
D M March OBE, Consul-General, MACAO