TNAG-0393-FCO40-439-Diplomatic-reports-from-Sir-Murray-MacLehose--Governor-of-Ho-1974 — Page 59

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CONFIDENTIAL

The present system was designed for a less developed

society. I accept that some decentralisation and

devolution may well be needed to make the best use of

scarce administrative resources. It is also important

that Hong Kong and the other dependent territories

should continue to be able to attract and to keep staff

of the highest calibre. We will do what we can to help

you.

7.

The rising crime figures in Hong Kong are one of

your most urgent problems. You are planning a new anti-crime drive, involving all the forces of the regular and auxiliary police. Law enforcement must

clearly remain the responsibility of these authorities,

but you rightly believe that their efforts can only be

successful if they are backed up by the positive support

of the whole community. The war against crime will be

one of your most urgent tasks for 1973.

CONFIDENTIAL

I have the honour to be

Sir

Your Excellency's Obedient

Servant