TNAG-1138-FCO40-1418-Valedictory-despatch-by-Sir-Murray-MacLehose--Governor-of-Ho-1982 — Page 11

I will be handing over to someone better qualified to handle the problems that lie ahead than myself. But in any case these years of preparation for a settlement of the future have been absorbing, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been here during them. The people of Hong Kong deserve all we can do for them, and they have been rewarding to serve. I have already referred to the magnificent quality of the Hong Kong Public Service by which I have been supported. But I am also indebted to successive Ambassadors in Peking, and those involved in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, for their forbearance, guidance and support. I am also deeply grateful for the consideration shown by successive Secretaries of State and responsible Ministers.

26.

I am sending a copy of this despatch to H.M.

Ambassador, Peking.

I have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient servant

C M MACLEHOSE

SECRET