COPY.
UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG.
25****
10th February, 1937.
Secretary,
Universities Bureau of the British Empire,
88a Gower Street,
LONDON, W.C.I.
Dear Sir,
I am directed to inform you that Sir William Hornell,
the Vice-Chancellor, has decided to retire from the service
of the University in September, 1938, in accordance with the
rules of the University. Sir William proposes to take the
leave due to him with effect from 18th December next and to
retire on the expiration of such leave, i.e., from 18th
September, 1938.
2.
The question of the appointment of a suitable successor
to Sir William Hornell is one of vital importance to the
University of Hong Kong and I am directed by the Council to
approach the Universities Bureau of the British Empire with
a view of ascertaining whether they know of any person who
might be regarded as suitable for the post.
3. As you will see from the University Ordinance, the Vice-
Chancellor is appointed by the Court of the University upon the
nomination of the Council. The procedure will therefore be that
any nomination, which it may be possible for the Universities
Bureau to make, will have to be submitted to the University
Council for approval and for recommendation to the Court.
4.
The Chancellor is of the opinion that it would be in the
best interests of the University if the new Vice-Chancellor could
be appointed a month or so before Sir William Hornell is due to
proceed on leave, in order that he might have the advantage of
working with him before taking over the Vice-Chancellorship.
This would mean that the Vice-Chancellor designate should arrive
in the Colony early in November, 1937.
5. Owing to its geographical and political situation the University of Hong Kong occupies a position of considerable
importance and dignity which is not perhaps enjoyed by