3. I suggest that we try, if possible, to get the Anson show back on the road. I shall be having lunch with Hamish Macleod next Tuesday, and this will provide a good opportunity to try to find out what is on his mind, and how far he is bendable. I propose to point out that:
(a) there are plenty of precedents for somebody of Sir J
Anson's eminence doing post retirement consultancy jobs in a low key way;
(b)
(c)
(d)
he has already been involved in other consultancy of a quite detailed nature;
he really would be the right sort of person for the job they appear to have in mind;
it may be very difficult to find an alternative on a reasonable timescale.
I will emphasise that we understand the sensitivity of an operation of this sort, and that the Treasury is going out of its way to help. No doubt you will be making similar points to him if he raises the issue. I am sure it will be better not to press him on it.
4. I can add, but you need not, that his wish to do something like this will help to increase confidence between Whitehall and Hong Kong.
5.
Perhaps we could have another word after I have spoken with Macleod.
You
Sumi
SH Broadbent
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