E F
4. We have consulted the Governor about the points raised by Mr and Mrs Harris. His comments are contained in Hong Kong telnos 1402 and 1403. (His letter of 7 April 1990 is
also attached.)
But
5. It is understandable in the circumstances that Mr and
Mrs Harris should have a hostile view of the Legal Department, and of the Attorney General in particular. as the draft reply shows, neither the treatment of Mrs Baker, nor that of Mr Findlay, was the direct responsibility of the Legal Department or Mr Matthews. And Mr Christopher Harris has been dealt with in accordance with
the law.
6.
Nevertheless, there is much criticism of Mr Matthews in
Hong Kong. And there is still a lot that is wrong with the
Legal Department. Whether or not Mr Matthews remains Attorney General (and that is a matter for the Governor) the problems of the Legal Department (low morale, lack of commitment, resignations) are likely to persist (and get worse) in the next six years.
WINAKF/2
ARPanc
A R Paul