TNAG-2271-FCO40-3270-Hong-Kong-Her-Majesty-s-Overseas-Civil-Service-(HMOCS)-corr-1991 — Page 146

Mr. Paul, HIDD

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26 JUN1991

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File:HKD

Foreign & Commonwealth

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London SW1 2AH

5 June 1991

7/6.

Mr K O Shipley

Secretary for the Civil Service

Government Secretariat

Lower Albert Road

HONG KONG

Dear Keith,

COMPENSATION ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEMBERS OF HMOCS

Ра M. Store

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Thank you for your letter of 16 May on this subject: I know that Nigel Cox had a quick word with you about it when we were recently in Hong Kong. You will also be aware that Alan Paul has replied to our copy of the

Glover/Wotherspoon letter, in standard terms.

I agree that it is right for you to reply on the lines suggested in your letter. We are indeed fully aware of the need to take matters forward quickly and your Branch is helping us in this by producing figures on the cost of sterling safeguards. We hope that it will be possible for the Ministers concerned with this issue, in both the Diplomatic and ODA wings of the Foreign Office, to meet this month and thereafter to formulate a way of taking this up with the Treasury.

I cannot, however, be sanguine that this approach will result in quick decisions being reached. As you will know from your meetings last October, it is going to be very hard to persuade the Treasury to agree anything that has potential liabilities for HMG. This is something we must work on, but success will not happen over-night.

I too am concerned about the terms of the speaking note attached to the letter from the representatives. The Department is aware, through other contacts, that the temperature is rising. I hope you will keep in regular contact with us to try to ensure that matters do not boil over unexpectedly.

Yours ever,

RLBAAN

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