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54207/13/09
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1. HONG KONG INTELLIGENCE ORGANISATION.
TOP SECRET
THE COMMITTEE had before them a Minute by the Secretary covering a telegram from the Governor of Hong Kong to the Colonial office asking that an experienced Intelligence Bureau (1.e. Special Branch) expert should be sent to Hong Kong to advise on the civil intelligence system, and also that an experienced Intelligence officer should be borne on the staff of the Commander, British Forces, Hong Kong.
MR. HAYTER said that two separate issues appeared to be involved in the Governor's request; firstly, that of assisting the Hong Kong police in anti-Communist work, and, secondly, the establishment of some form of recognised Joint Intelligence Organisation in Hong Kong on lines similar to those of a Joint Intelligence Committee.
Advice on Anti-Communist Work.
Continuing, Mr. Hayter said that, as regards advising the Governor on anti-Communist work, he had discussed this matter with Air Marshal Sir William Elliot who had accompanied the Minister of Defence on his recent visit to Hong Kong. Air Marshal Elliot had expressed the opinion that what was required was that the Hong Kong police should have advice on the highest level on the broad aspects of combating communism. It was therefore considered desirable that someone with a very wide experience of penetrating and dealing with Communist organisations should be sent to Hong Kong to advise the Governor.
In addition, it might also be desirable to send, at the same time, an export to give detailed aseistance in organising the work of the Special Branch of the Hong Kong police forces. Accordingly Mr. Hayter suggested that Sir Percy Sillitoe appeared to be the most suitable high level representative to send to Hong Kong to advise the Governor.
MR. PASKIN said that, in the light of the Governor's telegram and of the report by the Minister of Defence on his visit to Hong Kong, the Colonial Office had formed the opinion that the Governor's requirement as regards a Special Branch expert might be met by sending a representative from Scotland Yard, similar to the one now visiting Malaya to assist in the organisation of certain
However, after sections of the police work there. consultation with Air Marshal Elliot, the Colonial Office now thought that it might be preferable for someone more high-powered and with a wide experience of the broad aspects of combating communism to be sent to Hong Kong, if necessary in addition to a representative from Scotland
The Colonial Office Yard of the type previously mentioned.
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