TNAG-0076-FCO40-112-Retirement-of-the-Commissioner-of-Police-1967 — Page 47

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SPEAKING NOMES FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE IN CABINET

ON THURSDAY, 20 JULY, 1967

HONG KONG

Commissioner of Police

6. Last week it was regrettably necessary to remove the Commissioner of Police from his command. The Acting Governor reported to us that under the current pressure he had lost his nerve and the confidence not only of the

Commander of the British Forces and the Governor's close

advisers but also of his own officers. His Deputy who, during the absence of the Commissioner on leave, was in command of the force throughout the early disorders until

the middle of June has once again taken over.

7. The Commissioner has been brought big to England.

So far the reason for his departure from Hong Kong is

not publicly known. He is ostensibly here for consultations

on police and security matters. It is expected that, in

present circmpétences, we shall be able to find a useful

role for him here. We hope this will provide a plausible

explanation of bis continued presence in the United Kingdom

and will carry him on for a time until his retirement can be

conveniently announced without undesirable repercussions.

COMMONWEALTH OFFICE

19.7.67

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