TNAG-0214-FCO40-250-Proposals-for-appointment-of-a-ombudsman-in-Hong-Kong-1968 — Page 147

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the PCA replies to it either by arranging for a reply to be sent by you on lines indicated by the PCA's office, or by the transmission of a letter signed by the PCA's office but sent to the Governor/Administrator unsealed for delivery. Where, however, complaints by persons overseas are duly referred to the PCA by a Member of the House of Commons and communication with the complainant is necessary, the PCA will normally correspond direct through normal postal channels. But if in any particular case security of delivery or other reason demands it, we have agreed that the PCA may send a letter sealed through the bag for onward transmission. You may record in your files the receipt and onward transmission of such letters, but the PCA attaches importance to the principle that they should not be sent on with a covering letter from you, nor should any stamp be impressed upon them signifying that they have come through you.

5.

The PCA will normally correspond with the Permanent Under- Secretary of State in connection with a particular complaint. Mr. R. H. Mason, Assistant Under-Secretary of State, has been designated as the Department's Nominated Officer for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for correspondence not involving the Permanent Under-Secretary and the Parliamentary Commissioner himself.

6.

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A Parliamentary Commissioner and Committees Unit was up on the merger of the Foreign and Commonwealth Offices to act, inter alia, as co-ordinating point for enquiries from the PCA and if you have any queries arising out of this saving despatch, would you please write to Mr. C. A. Lovitt, Head of the Parliamentary Commissioner and Committees Unit, Room W.60, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Downing Street.

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This Circular Despatch is addressed to all Governors, High Commissioner for the Western Pacific, and all Administrators.

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