TNAG-2591-FCO40-3779-Appointment-of-Chris-Patten-as-new-Governor-of-Hong-Kong--Ap-1992 — Page 111

16/04/92 14:12

071 219 2407

GEORGE FOULKES MP

PAGE

02

85

From: George Foulkes, M.P.

HKD 070/1

28

HOUSE OF COMMONS

LONDON SWIA UAA

16 April 1992

Rt Hon Douglas Hurd MP

Foreign & Commonwealth Office

King Charles St

London SW1A ZAH

Dear Douglas,

I am writing to express concern about the many reports that the post of Governor of Hong Kong has been offered, whether formally or informally, to Chris Patten.

I am sure that Mr Patten has many excellent qualities, despite losing his seat, but to hawk such a vital and important job around in this manner is totally inappropriate. The importance of the next Governor to the future of Hong Kong is immense and there should be comprehensive consultation with the people of Hong Kong about the future role of the Governor and who they believe would fit the bill. In particular, the directly elected members of LegCo - who have the mandate of the voters of Hong Kong should be involved in the process.

•

While, of course, the final decision remains with the British Government, as we approach 1997 wider consultation is essential. How can you expect the Chinese Government to take seriously any British commitment to safeguard democracy and autonomy in Hong Kong when they see you ignore the ideas and opinions of the elected representatives of the people and behave in a dictatorial manner on such a vital matter.

In any case it has to be questioned whether Mr Patten should be encouraged to take the job. After being forced to defend the Poll Tax, defend a lacklustre and troubled Conservative campaign and defend and lose a marginal seat perhaps the last thing he needs is to be forced to defend to the disillusioned people of Hong Kong a weak and bankrupt British policy on the future of the territory.

Perhaps both Mr Patten and Hong Kong deserve a better break.

Yours Sincerely,

Dan Kennedy:

P-George Foulkes MP,

Opposition Foreign Affairs Spokesman.