TNAG-0395-FCO40-441-Appointment-of-Chief-Justice--Hong-Kong-1973 — Page 6

STAFF

IN CONFIDENCE

©

Sir Dunca

Duncan Watson

CHIEF JUSTICE, HONG KONG

1. Sir Vincent Evans, Mr Rushford and I have been giving further consideration to suitable candidates. There is no eminently qualified outsider who should be considered. This leaves Hong Kong candidates in sole possession of the field.

4 HUK 14 / 48 2. никана (1977)

11

In his Despatch of 4 August, the Governor considered four candidates, Blair-Kerr J (whom he excluded on grounds of age), Briggs J, Huggins J and Mr Roberts. Mr Huggins was compared in the Despatch with Mr Roberts, but not with Mr Briggs.

3. There is one day's difference in seniority between Mr Briggs and Mr Huggins, though Mr Briggs has 3 years longer in total overseas service. On his confidential reports, Mr Huggins merits consideration. In his report of December 1969, Sir Michael Hogan recommended "accelerated" promotion. Having regard to those reports, and to the fact that Er Huggins was in the Governor's list in his Despatch, we would consider that the Governor should be asked to give his assessment of the comparable qualities and suitability of Mr Briggs and Mr Huggins. This can be done shortly by telegram and I attach a draft telegram.

4.

[I should draw attention to one factor, which will doubtless not escape the Governor, namely that Mr Huggins is aged 51 as compared with Mr Briggs' 58. Were Mr Huggins to be appointed, then there would not be a vacancy, as anticipated, within three years and this may affect Ar Roberts' attitude to the choice which is before him.

5. I attach the Proms files of Mr Briggs and Mr Huggins. Would you let me have these back when you have considered them?

22 January 1973

copied to: Sir Vincent Evans

Mr Wilford

Mr Rushford

Mr JD B Shaw

Mr A C Stuart

STAFF

-

IN CONFIDENCE

Paul Pilost.

PRN Fifoot