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the estimate of 170,000 UK nationals in Hong Kong after 1997? (This is the opposite of what OED - rightly insisted on in my last two posts). Rome, I am told, is also relevant.
- In fact, there are 3 separate entrances & circulation patterns. Also a separate pedestrian side entrance can be used in times of crisis. We are satisfied the design of the building could cope with pressures generated by a crisis in Hong Kong.
Mr
(II) The facilities proposed for the commercial section are markedly inferior to those we now enjoy. Whittle suggested ways of improving that by ejecting the British Chamber but a major stategic aim (proposed and generally agreed) is to build the Chamber up and have it in. The Chamber and Commercial Section must work together.
- OED accept that this is an area where this design will need to be improved to conform to the Brief. [Mr Whittle did not suggest ejecting the Chamber].
(III) The multi-purpose hall as located by Farrell is of no value to the Consulate-General.
- OED accept the link should (and can) be improved. This is the sort of point which can be improved in refining the project design.
(IV) Access of business visitors is slow and expensive on staff time. In times of build-up of visa applicants it could be inordinately difficult. In crisis it could be impossible.
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As above, design can be improved to conform to Brief.
(V) Management. No suggestion of a shared management section was ever made, but the two staff must work together. (Note: I am surprised to find how little has been done cooperatively hitherto between BC and BTC - we are now remedying that shortcoming). There will be a host of shared concerns over maintenance, security, liaison with local authorities, control of access etc, in addition to shared operational tasks. The two management sections must work together. As I explained to Mr Hum, a management section today has an entirely different role from that to which it was traditionally relegated in years gone by. My proposals for staffing, training etc are all based on that central principle.
- of course the two Mgt sections should liaise, but combining the two is a new thought. The British
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