SECRET AND PERSONAL
8.
The Political Adviser's role will change as 1997
approaches. We want to avoid the Chinese turning him after 1997 into a Commissar for the SAR's dealings with Peking.
Moves are therefore already underway to separate out his
functions as follows:
- the overt PRC-liaison function is gradually being taken on by Hong Kong Civil Service staff. They will move in
about 1995 into the Chief Secretary's Private Office, with
the aim of continuing their functions unchanged after 1997;
-
the Political Adviser's more sensitive role as the
Governor's Adviser on relations with China and the conduit
for intelligence assessment will remain with the UK-based Political Adviser who will, on present planning, move in about 1995 into Government House. He might then take under
his wing certain other "UK eyes A" functions (intelligence
assessment, liaison with the garrison and physical
security).
London Requirements
9.
In the unpredictable period up to 1997, there will be a continuing need for private dialogue with the Governor on a range of issues relating to the administration of Hong Kong and relations with China which will not be suitable for widespread circulation within the Hong Kong Government. On the assumption that a new Governor will not have had previous experience of the Hong Kong administration or of dealing with China, and will not have the time or inclination to draft his own private communications with London, some arrangement will be needed to provide advice and support in these functions.
MAIAAT/4
SECRET AND PERSONAL
/10.