TNAG-2219-FCO40-3187-Constitutional-development-in-Hong-Kong-Letters-Patent-and-R-1991 — Page 7

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Reference

that it would be possible for the Governor to appoint deputy Judges under this Article.

5.

-

Mr Keane again mentioned the anomalous position of Chief

Magistrate a position which was abolished by statute in

1862. He feels that there is a possible lacuna which could

be exploited particularly on the extradition front because

the Governor refers extradition requests to the Chief

Magistrate for action. If the position of Chief Magistrate doesn't exist there might be a problem.

6. Mr Keane obviously feels quite strongly that these are

two potential areas of embarrasment to the Hong Kong

Administration which he suggests should be looked at. I

should be grateful for your advice as to whether you think

their is merit in his arguments and whether we should ask or

suggest to Hong Kong that they look into them.

dihl uftae

M V Stone

Hong Kong Department

WH304

270 2651

30 May 1991

Mr Stone

This is all a bit garbled. I would be gräteful if you would be kind enough to ask for Mr

CODE 18-77

Keane to

put

his news

into writing a send them

to us.

look at

we.com

them the privy Comal

them together with an appeal to

Mlang Koup, Any judgment of there

DUNAGQY2

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Any comment will also be relevant.

the Piny

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