CONFIDENTIAL
4.
an
at the
I believe that the
the Governor's views have considerable weight.
be for My preference would
essentially symbolic scheme most, financed by HMG. ut the ODA are concerned that the weight of colonial precedent, and the influence of the pensioners' lobby, may be too strong to allow us to get away with a symbolic scheme. They are naturally concerned about the financial implications.
5. A detailed paper on the issue is being prepared by the ODA. In the meantime the Governor may wish to explain his concerns to the
Secretary of State.
e has just informed us that he proposes to
consult ExCo formally on the issue on 14 October.
Coten
CO Hum
9 October 1986
Hong Kong Department
CONFIDENTIAL