Mr. Sidebotham
I
I have discussed with Sir C. Jeffries the question whether, in the light of the Governor's telegram agreeing to the matter of the constitution not being treated as "urgent", advantage should be taken of this lull to refer the proposals to the Smaller Territories' Committee. The conclusion reached is however that no useful purpose would be served by referring the matter to the Committee.
As regards the degree of "urgency", Sir C. Jeffries agrees with my interpretation that what the Governor means is that he will not expect a decision until whoever is then the Secretary of State has had an opportunity of considering his proposals after the Election. In the meantime we can proceed with the necessary consultation with the Foreign Office and the Ministry of Defence.
As regards the Secretary of State's view (para. 2 of his minute of the 6th January) that the Governor's despatch should be sent to the Smaller Territories' Committee in order that they may be aware of the difficulties of the problems involved, Sir C. Jeffries' view is that this can be deferred until we are able at the same time to tell the Committee of the Secretary of State's decision.
As regards the last paragraph of Sir C. Jeffries' minute of the 6th January, I attach a note in which I have attempted to show that the idea, which is beginning to crystallise in the Smaller Territories' Committee, of a constitution on the lines of the Hamburg Constitution, would not be applicable in the case of Hong Kong.
19 Jan 50.