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4.
Mr Eggar noted the continuing problem of Hong Kong citizens detained in Asian countries for drug trafficking, many of whom faced the death sentence. He enquired how such cases were regarded in Hong Kong. Sir D Wilson said that public opinion tended to favour severe punishments for drug trafficking. The death penalty remained on the Statute Book in Hong Kong although in practice sentences were always commuted by the Governor. The sensitive point was to ensure that Hong Kong citizens were seen to receive the same treatment by the British consular authorities, for example in Bangkok, as British citizens. Public opinion would react very adversely to any suggestion that Hong Kong citizens were receiving second-class treatment.
5.
Mr Eggar noted that it was not necessarily easy for the British Embassies concerned to provide adequate visiting and liaison, given the language and cultural barriers. For this reason he had favoured the idea of a Hong Kong consular officer either being posted to the Embassy, or visiting regularly. Sir D Wilson said that this appeared in principle to be a sensible course, although he thought it would be better if an official posted permanently were to have responsibility going beyond just consular work. He suspected, however, that there might be a question mark over who would pay for the appointment. The Hong Kong Government already carried out very significant services in Hong Kong on behalf of the British Government, for example issuing passports, without repayment. The whole area of reciprocal services of these kind was one which he would prefer not to see opened up for discussion.
6. Mr Eggar agreed that funding might well pose a problem, but said that he would look at the matter again. I would be grateful if Consular Department could re-submit the papers on Mr Eggar's return from leave.
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Richard Makepeace
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