299 the Naval base, should be given a position inferior only to that of the Governor, and should in his absence represent the Crown.
The Military value of the fortresses of Malta, Gibraltar and Bermuda is recognized by the ex-officio appointment as Governors of the General Officers Commanding at those stations.
It is illogical therefore and inexpedient that at Hong Kong, the strategical importance of which has of recent years become greater than Bermuda, the status of the General Officer should be lowered by his being placed in the absence of the Governor under the orders of the Colonial Secretary.
It also seems that this arrangement renders the position of the General Officer very anomalous, as, so long as the Governor is present in the Island, the General Officer has precedence immediately below him and above the Colonial Secretary, but when the Governor is absent, the General Officer is superseded by a subordinate official.
Mr. Arnold-Forster trusts therefore that in view of the facts now brought to his notice that Mr. Lyttelton may see his way to revert to the arrangement which has lately been in force, and to issue a new Dormant Commission accordingly.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
wwband
The Secretary of the Army Council,