CO_1030_1459_HONG_KONG_CONSTITUTIONAL_DEVELOPMENT_1963_1965 — Page 30

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54 Minute to MrHigham from Bir John Martin -Ref(53)

Mr Wallace:

The Governor has replied at (53) to our questions about the proposed nominations to the Legislative Council and has asked for a reply by 24 June. A note by Sir John Martin is at (54).

2.

The Governor has answered one of our queries by saying that the appointment of Mr Gordon as a "nominee" of the Chamber of Commerce for two years does not necessarily mean that the question of terminating the Chamber's right of nomination cannot be tackled when a favourable opportunity presents itself. He would like nevertheless to have Mr Gordon on the Council for the next two years on personal grounds.

3. In his para. 4 the Governor answers our doubts about appointing an additional European by saying that public opinion in Hong Kong would on the whole like and expect such an appointment. We may have some criticism from the lunatic fringe (e.g. Ma Man Fai) but this we can disregard. There may too be some criticism in this country, e.g. Dr Jeremy Bray. But I think we must accept the Governor's view and I am sure he is right in saying that on personal grounds Mr, Watson will make an excellent and somewhat unconventional member.

4. The Governor's arguments about financial success being a prerequisite of respect in Hong Kong society are, I fear, only too well founded except in certain specialised cases, e.g. teachers. I think, however, we might urge him to reconsider this point in the future.

A

5. As between Mr Szeto Wai and Mr Woo I think we must accept the Governor's preference. note on Mr Szeto Wai is at the foot of (53). He is also the architect for the new Chinese University.

6. As in draft. I doubt whether Ministers need be consulted.

22.6.644

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lopen

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2326

(J.D. Higham) 23 June 1964

minute above &

over the telephone I read the draft telegram opposite to Sir John Martin at the C.R.O. He agreed withpite of 344 asked me to send to telegraph branch for despatch.

bb Shrimpión

کارگر

23rd June, 1964Page 31 of 344