TNAG-0997-FCO40-1222-Future-staffing-of-Dependent-Territories-1981 — Page 126

RESTRICTED

FUTURE STAFFING IN THE DEPENDENT TERRITORIES: ESSENTIAL FACTS

1. A number of the territories will require administering by

London-based staff throughout the 1980's, and some of them beyond

that period. There are 13 senior administrative posts in

Grades 3 and 4 in the dependent territories. 9 of these are

currently occupied by DS officers, most of whom have HMOCS

experience. There are also 8 other administrative posts at DS5

level, of which only one is filled by a DS officer. However, the

pool of ex-HMOCS officers in the DS is gradually drying up and

there is a need to replace them with diplomats who have not had

previous colonial experience, but who can be prepared for it by

mix of training and experience in subsidiary posts, e.g. Deputy

Governor of Bermuda.

2. There are now only 7 serving HMOCS officers in territories

other than Hong Kong who might be considered for further appoint-

ments. There are also 15 officers in the DS with relevant HMCCS

experience who could be assigned to work in the dependent territories.

Given the demands over the next 10 years, i.e. about 64 postings,

there will be a considerable short-fall, even if all the existing

HMOCS and DS officers with HMCCS experience were to be available

for future postings in the dependent territories.

3. Proposals for training, preparatory work and postings are set

out in the recommendations in paragraph 19 of the paper.

Hong Kong and General Department

12 January 1981

RESTRICTED