TNAG-0214-FCO40-250-Proposals-for-appointment-of-a-ombudsman-in-Hong-Kong-1968 — Page 111

PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL

The

I know that some of the unofficial members of both the Executive and Legislative Councils doubt whether such a post is necessary end that the constitutional position of the Colony makes it impossible to follow the model of responsibility to Parliament that is appropriate here. But just as Hong Kong ic co much "ɛui generis", so there is no need exactly to reproduce the machinery that

has been evolved elsewhere. It strikes me, never-

theless, that the "Ombudsman" concept is particularly

suitable for the circumstances of Hong Kong.

new Office would of course have to be quite separate

from the normal machinery of government and I am sure the "Commissioner would have to report to you personally. The Parliamentary Commissioner here has certain restrictions on his activities and

it will be necessary to consider what restrictions should be placed on the "Ombudsman" in Honɛ konɛ. I am arranging therefore for the Parliamentary Commissioner to be consulted about these proposals

and our considered views in the light of this consultation will be sent to you as soon as possible. Meanwhile, I should be grateful if you would consider the best way of reviving this issue with your

unofficial advisers.

If we

PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL