(a) Permanent Judges
(538)
We
discussed a new proposal for compromise, namely that two judges other than the Chief Justice would be permanent and without concurrent appointments. The Chief Justice, even if he were also the Chief Judge, would in practice not hear cases in courts other than the CFA.
*
(b) Overseas Judges
We agreed that it was essential for the Chief Justice to retain absolute discretion, and that his right to invite overseas judges to sit should be expressed in the terms of JD68.
8. JD 158/159
I discussed this problem with Messrs Whitney, Daw and Galsworthy and agreed a way forward, on which I will minute separately.
9. RECIPROCAL JUDICIAL ASSISTANCE IN CIVIL MATTERS
(a) Hong Kong/Third States - replacement of existing
multilateral and bilateral treaties.
(b) Hong Kong/PRC
and post 1997.
development of new arrangements pre
I pursued both aspects with Messrs Edwards Stock, Allan and Marshall of AGC, Mr Ehrman and the Supreme Court Registrar, and will minute separately on my proposals for action.
10. I found the whole visit immensely worthwhile, both as regards the substantive business discussed, and for the opportunities to make valuable contacts and gain a greater understanding of the political context and the workings of HKG. I am extremely grateful to you and the members of your department for making it possible.
Will Banelf
Jill Barrett
AY3AAN
Redacted under FOI exemption 27(1)