QUALITIES OF NEW GOVERNOR HMG LOOKING FOR?
We appreciate how important the choice of a successor is for the people of Hong Kong. The Governor of Hong Kong requires a tremendous number of qualities. He will have the responsibility for sustaining Hong Kong's success and steering the Territory through
the last phase of the transition. Government determined to find a worthy successor to Sir David Wilson. We take careful note of the views expressed on this in Hong Kong.
APPOINT LOCAL CHINESE GOVERNOR?
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It is intended that the next Governor shall be British.
LOCAL DEPUTY GOVERNOR?
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No plans to create a position of Deputy Governor.
LOCAL CHIEF SECRETARY?
- Current incumbent doing a first-class job.
Appointment of Chief Secretary is on the advice of the Governor. Will therefore be a matter for a new Governor to consider in due course.
(If raised) No automatic dealine for
Sir David Ford's retirement.
ELECTED GOVERNOR (CF BASIC LAW WHICH STATES ELECTED CHIEF EXECUTIVE?)
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The Governor is appointed by Her Majesty The Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister. Reflects fact that Britain remains responsible for Hong Kong until July 1997. After 1997, different arrangements apply.
WHAT CONSULTATION WITH HONG KONG/LEGCO DEBATE?
- The Government taking careful note of the views of the people of Hong Kong, including those expressed in the Legislative Council debate. Mr Rt Hon friends the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary and I have all seen members of EXCO or LegCo in recent weeks. Plan to visit Hong Kong again before long and will listen carefully to all the views put to me then.
MVSACI
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