TNAG-0091-FCO40-127-Social-welfare-working-conditions-in-Hong-Kong-1968 — Page 61

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CONFIDENTIAL

5.

I am completely puzzled by Power's reaction to his visit to Hong Kong. He was received and interviewed in the friendliest and most informal manner and I spoke to him about the local situation in the most open manner on confidential matters. I certainly explained that it was our intention to push joint consultation on a voluntary basis and that, if legislation was introduced, it would be with the object of bringing into line the minority of back-sliders. He is completely wrong in thinking that we had pre-determined to reject him. In fact, we were all disheartened by the prospect of having to start all over again the difficult job of casting around for new candidates.

Best wishes,

Yours sincerely,

enclosures

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(R.M. Hetherington) Commissioner of Labour