MADABP
PUS'S BRIEFING FOR ORAL EVIDENCE TO THE FAC ON 3 MAY HONG KONG/CHINA
(A) STATUS OF SENIOR BRITISH TRADE COMMISSIONER
POINTS TO MAKE
Post of Senior British Trade Commissioner was last year upgraded to Ambassadorial rank, bringing his status in to line with the representatives of other major trading countries in Hong Kong.
Mr Peter Heap, who replaced Mr Reg Holloway as Senior British Trade Commissioner at end of April, is already in the Senior Grade and has ample commercial experience.
Upgrading of post reflects importance HMG attach to promotion of economic and commercial relations with Hong Kong and role of Hong Kong as spring board, to China. Demonstration of our confidence in future of territory as financial and economic focal point in Asia/ Pacific Rim region.
For some years Trade Commission has been expanding in size and service it provides to British companies. Will be further expanded in readiness for its becoming British Consulate-General in 1997.
SUPPLEMENTARIES
Should Senior British Trade Commissioner have a wider remit? Should HMG appoint a 'British Commissioner'?
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Wrong to broaden his remit in any way which could convey impression of second, alternative source of British power in Hong Kong. This would detract from position of Governor. Effective administration of Hong Kong by Governor and maintenance of confidence in the territory must be Britain's major aim.
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Private notes are available after approval.