timing of your response, this may involve raising the
matter with Members of Parliament on both sides of the
House, and seeking a declaration in the English courts as
to HMG's responsibilities in this regard. It may also
involve responding frankly to media enquiries, although we
do not intend to publicise our concerns at this stage.
You will be better placed than us to determine what
effect, if any, these views will have in Hong Kong and
elsewhere.
4.
We consider our forbearance on this issue to be
far greater than would be expected of Members of the Home
Civil Service or HBM's Diplomatic Service in similar
circumstances, particularly given the casual manner in
which our concerns appear to have been addressed to date.
Despite this, our commitment to the continued good
government of Hong Kong during the rest of the transition
period remains undiminished.
5.
As the last serving Members of a proud and loyal
Crown service, we are sure that HMG does recognise our
legitimate interests, and will be anxious to offer the
full assurances we seek.
substantive reply today.
Obviously we do not expect a
However, we propose to seek a
further meeting with you in one months time, unless you
are able to convene one before then.