TNAG-0523-FCO40-618-Visits-of-members-of-Urban-Council-from-Hong-Kong--to-UK-1975 — Page 99

9.

On defence costs I suggested that these be equated against resumption of military lands in Central Hong Kong, including Stone Cutter's Island.

Possible areas of UC expansion were discussed. I suggested that it was naive to anticipate extension of power into "politically sensitive" areas such as education, inmigration, etc. Possibility existed for greater UC influence on housing' through absorption of all members of Council into the Housing Authority, with provision for one or two public debates each year. The Fire Services Department was considered a suitable area of Council control but I had reservations about Public Transport, recommended by other delegates, in view of the substantial fare subsidies which could be required in an inflationary period.

Lord Goronwy-Roberts listened attentively to the suggested areas of Council expansion and to my proposal that there should be specified channels of communication with the Hong Kong Government so that such ideas could be explored in greater depth.

After the meeting I handed to Mr. Galsworthy (Private Secretary) a copy of the answer to my question regarding military lands (Qu.1 of 8/4/75) and the SCMP editorial of 25/3/75 regarding a Police Advisory Committee.

3.

H.K. Government Office

Full assistance and co-operation was extended to the visit from the H.K. Government Office.

The delegation was entertained to lunch by the Commissioner, Mr. S. T. Kidd, and guests included Sir Paul Bryan (Chairman, Anglo-H.K. Parliamentary Group), Mr. B. Mason (Vice Chairman, GLC) and Mr. O'Keefe (FCO).

In discussing the visit with Mr. Kidd he suggested that, in future, the Council should carry full costs and, thereby, lay down acceptable guidelines to avoid public controversy on either Council or non-Council affairs. I subscribe to this view and recommend that, for any similar mission :-

the Council provide full charter air fares and hotel per dien allowance;

Mr. Tinson or another senior officer accompany each group and act as press liaison;

participating Councillors adopt a rule of conduct to avoid controversial statements in the course of, or immediately following, the mission.

CONCLUSION

We

The business programme was well organised and proved to be most interesting and instructive for all members of the Mission. are indebted to the GLC and Westminster City Council for their efforts which ensured the success of the trip.