Interpreters such as has been set on Nr 11218 79 may be all very well, but the main object of the present regulations still remains, which is to provide a body of well-educated English Chinese-speaking officers for the higher appointments, the existence of which body should make the Interpreting Staff of less importance.
There are several such officers now in Hong Kong, e.g. Mr Wodehouse, Mr Rupell &c. I think it would be well if Dr Eitel (who has never been confirmed in this new, and as yet not publicly sanctioned appointment of Chinese Secretary) were relegated to his proper function of Inspector of Schools, and if one of the gentlemen referred to were made Assistant Colonial Secretary for Chinese Affairs (if such an office is necessary).
If Dr Eitel's services be retained in that capacity, I think it should be with that title so as to maintain his subordination to the Colonial Secretary, which Sir J. Pope Hennessy is apt to overlook. The whole matter referred to in this paragraph of this minute ought, however, to have been kept separate from the pension minute.
Page 183
Min., 29/12/80
C.