TNAG-2119-FCO40-3025-Future-of-Hong-Kong-general-1990 — Page 216

CONFIDENTIAL

As regards subjects for responsive work, I still think that a paper

on "Lessons for future policy derived from an analysis of current

[or recent] difficulties in negotiations with China" would be

useful. Of course, I should be glad to consider other ideas and

would welcome the opportunity to discuss with you subjects and priorities and also, of course, the procedural points covered in para 6 of Mr Figgis' minute under reference. I wonder if we might aim to hold this discussion in early or mid-November.

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6. Finally, I should mention that Far Eastern Section of RAD looks

like being seriously below strength for a considerable period. Following Miss Morton's recent departure, in place of the

recommended establishment of 6 Research Officers covering China,

Japan, the Koreas, Mongolia, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao, the

Section currently has only 3 (Mr Wye, Mr Cowin and myself) plus two temporarily attached Grade 9s of whom one at least is expected to leave RAD at the end of the year. As you know, I myself am expecting to leave in late January (and ong present plans will hand over coverage of Hong Kong to Mr Wye who, because of his management

and other responsibilities, may have less time for this subject than

I have had). A new Research Officer has been selected by a

recruitment board but is not expected to arrive in this department until Spring 1991. These staffing constraints are bound to pose

difficulties, but we shall of course do our best to meet all

requirements with due regard for priority.

HOTAAL/3

Mafalken

Ken Walker

Far Eastern Section

Research & Analysis Dept

OAB 2/125

210 6220

CONFIDENTIAL