TNAG-1428-FCO40-1911-Future-of-the-Hong-Kong-public-service-1985 — Page 51

A

My Bickford (Legal Advisers K188)

CONFIDENTIAL

Reference...

HKK 256/1

24

HONG KONG: FUTURE APPOINTMENTS IN THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE

1.

In the attached letter from Hong Kong, Mr Harbinson of the Civil Service Branch has informed us of impending changes in the Hong Kong Government policy for recruiting officers to the Administrative Service, particularly the abandonment of the requirement that Administration Officers on probation or trial should have or acquire British nationality before they can be confirmed to the permanent and pensionable establishment.

2. As Mr Harbinson has stated in his letter, the intention to drop this provision was included in Section IV of Annex 1 of the joint declaration. He has asked however whether we find any of the proposals objectionable.

3.

As far as I can tell, the proposals seem perfectly in order. However, I should be grateful for your comments on any points you consider we should take

proposed up with Hong Kong. I imagine that there are precedents for action

by Hong Kong as some of the Dependent Territories may have enacted similar changes as they moved towards independence.

4.

I should be grateful for your advice.

HKCK

2561

RECEIVED IN REGISTRY

16 JUL 1985

DESK OFFICER INDEX

PA

REGIOS PY Action TakeOPE

I Thomas,

J Thomas

Hong Kong Department WH 312

233 4828

072885 2584

CODE 18-77

AWO Ltd. 7/84

10 July 1985

Mr Thomas, HKD

1.

the Thomas

Thom

Yes

Mr Kicks You use CEC 18/7.

се

Rex. Yes I had thouged to ask hein. This

is armportant proporal and Mr

Hall's comments and adura will be valuable. Subject to

C

agreement I will phone and cast

J Thomas 15.7.85

16

To call w.

I see no objection to these proposals from the legal point

of view. No doubt you will be obtaining Jim Hall's comments.x

Now See folio

(25).

Di Muni

12 July 1985

noted

JD P Bickford

K 188 233 3923

Mr Hall is calling on Wedurday. Prebu 24. 7.

Дн

85

CONFIDENTIAL

J

17/7.