6
the remaining High Court work.
It is understood that
Hong Kong's assistance in the High Court will no longer be
required in 1991.
20.
The Minister has been less specific about
intentions regarding Court of Appeal, and it is hoped
that assistance from Hong Kong may be phased out during 1992, presumably also by the employment of retired judges.
21.
There is concern that the Judges so recruited, who are all getting older, may not effectively be able to replace the present assistance given from Hong Kong and, in particular, that the time scale indicated will not be adhered to if matters are left entirely in the hands of
Brunei.
22.
It would best suit the Hong Kong Judiciary if a
firm time-table could be agreed with Brunei with, perhaps, the final item being the retirement of the Chief Justice of Hong Kong from his post as President of the Court of Appeal in Brunei. Ideally, our relationship should cease by the
end of 1992.
CONFIDENTIAL