1 February 1982
Sir Philip Haddon-Cave Chief Secretary
Central Government Office
Ice House Street,
Long Kong
Dear Sir,
We have learned that the Hong Kong Immigration Department
has refused to renew the work permit of Ms Christine Vertucci, joint director of Asia Monitor.
Hong
We believe this decisioniis mistaken, and can only harm Kong's reputation for respecting liberty of opinion and free speech. In our view, the work of the Asia Monitor is of a very high standard, and is much appreciated abroad by those who seek objective mand accurate information about the subjects into which Asia Monitor has researched.
It seems most unjust that the decision against Ms Vertucci should have been delayed so long before it was announced to her, end that no reasons have been given by the officials concerned.
We sincerely hope that when Ms Vertucci's appeal is heard, the reasons will become clearer. Please would you make inquiries into this case to make sure that an injustice has not been done to Ms Vertucci. In particular we would be grateful if you would indicate the criteria by which the Immigration Department reaches its decisions.
Yours faithfully,
Robert Archer Asia Desk