ADMIN IN CONFIDENCE
SECTION 13: MANAGEMENT AND ACCOUNTS
1.
I agree with the conclusions. I think that the argument in Annex A makes rather a meal of the question of the Receptionist. We are in no doubt, based on actual experience, that if we doubled up the positions, there would be nobody on the reception desk for the greater part of the day. Physical and telephone callers are frequent throughout the day. We are quite clear that it would be an unacceptable distraction for the S2 to have to deal with both the front door and the telephone at the same time as having to deal with all the dictation and typing needs of 3 officers. It follows that I think that paragraph 7 of Annex A seriously underestimates the disruption to work patterns that would flow from this.
ADMIN TN CONFIDENCE
ADMIN IN CONFIDENCE
SECTION 16: ACCOMMODATION
1. I made it clear that I could see no objection to reviewing the position on relocation with the BTC. However, I find it very difficult to see there is likely to be any material change from the situation earlier in 1990 when it was concluded in London that early vacation of the St John's Building would carry quite unacceptable financial penalties. As the Inspectors say, there would be political and presentational problems in such a move, to which I would add considerable practical problems. It would not therefore be welcome. However, I would not regard this as overriding if the financial arguments turned out to be strongly in favour. This is being considered in London separately following the despatch of a telegram by the Inspectors.
ADMIN IN CONFIDENCE
CONFIDENTIAL ADMINISTRATION IN CONFIDENCE
INSPECTION REPORT
-pw.
UK Rep JLG Office in Hongkong
HKC031/17
DIEL
DIPLOMATIC SERVICE INSPECTORATE
ADMINISTRATION IN CONFIDENCE
CONFIDENTIAL
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