TNAG-2217-FCO40-3184-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong-1991 — Page 26

Mr Paul, HKD

CONFIDENTIAL

وجر

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Ponstitution Constitution (future)

низа

From:

Sir John Coles

Date:

6 June 1991

CC:

Mr Burns

HONG KONG

1.

On 29 May I called on the Commander of British Forces, Hong Kong. At the end of our conversation General Duffell said he wanted to seek my advice about one point. He had obtained the impression (he did not say how) that there was an intention that when he left Hong Kong next March the CBF would no longer be a member of EXCO. He thought this would be regrettable. It was important that the CBF should have this important means not only of keeping in touch with major political and other developments but also of keeping abreast of the mood of the territory. This could become increasingly important as 1997 got nearer and, possibly, tensions were heightened and possible threats to law and order developed. What was the FCO view?

2.

I said this issue was new to me and I did not know whether there was an FCO view. If what he had described was the intention I imagined that it related to the development of the democratic process in Hong Kong. I suggested that if the FCO had to take a view it might well be that the Governor was the best judge of the evolving composition of EXCO. I could understand the General's point about wanting to keep his finger on the pulse because of his possible role in situations where law and order were threatened. I would think about the matter.

3.

He said that one element in the thinking might be that the CBF should disappear from EXCO so that after 1997 the Commander of the PLA presence in Hong Kong would have less claim to a seat.

4. General Duffell said he would probably write to the Governor in due course about the issue.

5. I should be grateful to know whether we have taken a view on this question, and what your advice is. I called on CBF after my last discussion with the Governor and shortly before my departure. I have therefore not mentioned the matter to Sir David Wilson. I will consider whether to do so in the light of your advice.

fol lobes.

JC2ACJ

Sir John Coles

CONFIDENTIAL