the hoops, in the consideration of important questions brought before the Executive Council; but at the same time he feels strongly that the anomaly complained of by H.E. Colborne, and dwelt on in the letter from this office above referred to, places such officer in an unfair position.
Hardly would be glad therefore if Lord Carnarvon would take into further consideration, the whole question as to the position of officers Commanding troops in the Colony, in cases where the administration of the Colony, in the absence of Governor, devolves on the Colonial Secretary; with the view of the removal, if possible, of this difficulty.
We have the honor to be, obedient servant,
[Signature]
Copy
083
2329
Hong-Kong Gazette
Entry 1875
362
Head Quarters, Hong Kong, 16th September 1875.
With reference to my letter of the 18th March last, and your reply, numbered as above, dated 18th May 1875, I am to bring to the notice of His Royal Highness the Field Marshal Commanding in Chief the enclosed Government Notification, announcing an amendment in the Constitutional Charter of Hong Kong.
By this order the General Officer Commanding, unless he holds the Commission of Lieutenant Governor, is precluded under any circumstances, from succeeding to the Administration, in the absence of the Governor, and his position consequently becomes more inconsistent with that accorded to him as Senior Member of the Executive Council.
The Military Secretary, Horse Guards