TNAG-2602-FCO40-3790-Administrative-support-for-Chris-Patten--new-Governor-of-Hon-1992 — Page 86

SECRET AND PERSONAL

Administrative Region after that date. It would not be appropriate for the SBTC to become the Governor's senior adviser. Apart from having a full-time job promoting British interests, this would tend to blur the distinction

between Britain's constitutional responsibility for Hong Kong (symbolised by the Governor and his dialogue with the Secretary of State) and the UK's purely national interest in commercial and other opportunities pursued by the SBTC.

Financial Aspects

17.

If new posts are to be created on the Governor's

staff, and paid for by the Hong Kong Government, the approval of the LegCo Finance Committee will be required. LegCo might not jib at paying for one mid-ranking official, but they might well refuse to fund a senior official and

staff. If that option were selected, we should therefore plan on the basis of paying for the officer (s) concerned. A Senior Grade officer would cost around £200,000 a year.

There would be support staff and possible office

accommodation costs.

Hong Kong Department

19 February 1992

MAIAAT/11

SECRET AND PERSONAL