CONFIDENTIAL
2
However, the contents of your telegram have been read as an invitation to reconsider afresh the filling of the first Puisne Judge vacancy and, this being so, a further assessment has been made of the other contender for the post, namely Mr. P.F.X. Leonard. Notwithstanding the fact that he was only appointed to the District Court Bench twelve months ago, the Chief Justice believes that Mr. Leonard now has sufficient judicial experience in the District Court and as Commissioner of the Supreme Court to justify his promotion. When sitting as Commissioner he has shown that he possesses to a marked degree the qualities of professional skill and character required of a Puisne Judge. Consequently, the Chief Justice now considers, an opinion with which I agree, that Mr. Loenard is a better candidate and would be more likely to make a better Supreme Court Judge than either Mr. Morley-John or Mr. Cons. Hr. Leonard is now aged 51; he is a man of very considerable ability, intellect and experience, both as a Solicitor in private practice in Singapore, as an advocate, and in the Attorney General's Chambers. He has a sound knowledge of the law and his work on the District Court Bench during the last year has been of a consistently high standard. He is currently undertaking the duties of a Commissioner of the Supreme Court.
I have not included supplementary comment with regard to Mr. LI Fook-Sean as I note that you are in agreement with the recommendation Sir David Trench made in his Despatch of the 31st March, 1971.
The Chief Justice will be on leave in England this month and available to discuss this matter with your advisers if you consider that this would be helpful.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
High Norman-harden
CONFIDENTIAL
ACTING GOVERNOR
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.