TNAG-1000-FCO40-1231-Appointment-of-the-Governor-of-Hong-Kong-Sir-Edward-Youde-1981 — Page 22

CONFIDENTIAL : STAFF IN CONFIDENCE

- 2.

factors which are external.

These are principally with

the United Kingdom, China and the United States, and as it

so happens these are the countries in which I have spent

most of my working life. But I repeat, my responsibility

is the good government of Hong Kong in all its aspects

and I will spend the next four months preparing myself

for this.'

News Department could also draw on this.

F. Future of Hong Kong and 1997 (if pressed)

Glad relations with Chiną so good and confidence high. Will

work to maintain this. Too early to predict developments on 1997.

2

G. Other domestic or external questions (if pressed)

All these subjects will require careful study. Need to ensure

Hong Kong's interests maintained. Hong Kong is already well run.

Sir Edward Youde knows many of the officials and unofficials

responsible for it. Looking forward to meeting them again and

working with them.

H. Length of tenure of appointment.

Cannot comment. The Governor holds office during Her Majesty's'

pleasure.

CONFIDENTIAL STAFF IN CONFIDENCE