TNAG-0334-FCO40-370-Visits-of-Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Commonwealth-Af-1972 — Page 95

NOTHING TO BE WRITTEN IN THIS MARGIN

CONFIDENTIAL

ANNEX C TO BRIEF No

15

PARLIAMENTARY COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATION

(OMBUDSMAN)

1.

There is a body of opinion in Hong Kong,

including the local branch of JUSTICE (International

Commission of Jurists) which favours the appointment

of an Ombudsman and the matter had been a subject

of press and other comment in the Colony during

the past three or four years. It has also been

the subject of occasional Parliamentary interest

here, although the issue is dormant at present.

2. It is, however, evident that among Unofficial

Members of the Executive and Legislative Councils

there is a substantial body of opinion which

doubts whether an Ombudsman is necessary or whether

such an appointment could make for any improvement

in the facilities already available in that field.

Facilities already exist in Hong Kong to

enable members of the public to make their views

3.

and grievances known to the authorities and.to,

seek redress. In addition to the normal hothot night

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facility

fpetition the Governor and/or the Secretary

of State these facilities include:-

(a) The office of the Unofficial Members of

the Executive and Legislative Councils

(UMELCO)

This is an office through which members

of the public can bring their views and

complaints to the notice of Unofficial

/Members

CONFIDENTIAL