TNAG-0398-FCO40-444-Appointments-to-supreme-and-district-courts-from-the-Bar-in--1973 — Page 13

interest.

We also, during the summer, had discussions

with a delegation from Justice, led by Lord

Gardiner, and including two barristers from

Hong Kong. They were concerned about the new

Hong Kong courts legislation and especially

the proposal to widen the powers of the

District Courts. As a result of these

discussions we took up a number of detailed

points with the Hong Kong Government which are

under study.

My own impression from all these developments

is that the situation is not too bad and is

getting better. But the whole Government of

Hong Kong, including the courts system,

obviously has continuously to adapt itself to

change in a fast moving society.

If you have

further ideas on how this could be achieved

the Governor would, I am sure, be glad to hear

them. We could discuss this if you wish, or

you might find it worth having a word with the

head of our Hong Kong Department, Andrew Stuart

who is also, as it happens, a barrister.

MG.

14/11

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