A Death In Hong Kong

"Collett's narrative unveils the manipulations of a colonial government more focused on maintaining appearances than seeking the truth."

When asked to recommend books that shed light on Hong Kong's colonial period, I always mention 'A Death in Hong Kong' by Nigel Collett. Below is my review of the book from January 2023.

The MacLennan case, a significant event in the history of Expat Hong Kong, revealed a darker side of the colonial era. The death of the colonial police inspector in 1980 has consistently attracted significant attention, sparking discussions and speculations that have persisted for decades.

This case, with its complex web of conspiracy theories and amateur sleuths, serves as a microcosm of the colonial era's underbelly, shedding light on the power dynamics and the struggle for truth and justice.

I cannot remember how many times people have told me, 'It is impossible to shoot yourself five times with a gun.' Then follows a futile attempt to dispute the facts of MacLennan's suicide. In fairness, it is difficult for the layman accustomed to Hollywood shootouts, when a single bullet sends a body flying, to comprehend the truth. 

'A Death in Hong Kong' is probably the definitive account unless new evidence emerges. Nigel Collett, the author, has conducted meticulous research, a testament to his dedication and thoroughness. He has combined these details with a clear explanation of the timeline.

His account is forensic and generally balanced, as Collett aims to provide an honest telling of events. He describes the key players, sets the scene, and discusses their motivations. Additionally, he includes significant details, some of which are new to me. 

As a young inspector, I read Justice TK Yang's 1981 inquiry report on the case. After the public outcry, the Governor Sir Murray MacLehose was forced to order an inquiry. The attached death report served as a template for all of us struggling to master the art of an investigation. Yang's report left me with a sense of sadness. Collett's book deepens that feeling. 

Collett's narrative unveils the manipulations of a colonial government more focused on maintaining appearances than seeking the truth. No one emerges unscathed from this story. Even passionate campaigner Elsie Elliott (later Tu), who sought to expose the truth, was not above making misleading statements.
However, she is the least responsible in this unfortunate tale. The same cannot be said of government officials, including Sir Murray MacLehose, whose actions and alleged meddling in the case expose the falsehood of 'British' justice. 

This story spans 'from the gutter to Government House'. As the Inquiry drew closer to the Governor, having 'misfired' and run out of official control, Collett concludes that the colonial regime reacted. Ultimately, Governor MacLehose fought to rein in TL Yang and the outspoken counsel John Beveridge. No doubt, if the post-1997 administration attempted a similar move, London would be yelling about the 'rule of law'. 

This book reminds us that colonial governments wielded power with ruthless tendencies. MacLennan was a small fry, while allegations against more senior figures went uninvestigated. 

The evidence points to colonial officials, including legal officers, being involved in paedophile activities. These individuals walked free. As we have since learnt from such cases in the UK, you cannot take official denials at face value. 

During my service, I observed senior personnel ignoring or justifying their infractions to avoid causing an 'unwanted scene.'. Meanwhile, infractions by junior officers led to the destruction of their careers, as the entire weight of the disciplinary system fell upon them. 

The response to indebtedness exemplifies this point. In one instance, a senior official was allegedly given an overseas posting to earn an allowance and thereby clear his debts. The lower ranks received no such consideration.

I've spent many evenings debating the MacLennan case, including with people mentioned in the book. Yet, I never knew that he had a wealthy lady friend who provided him with a car. Furthermore, it's now clear he was bisexual. This detail changes the way the story unfolds. 

The story told to the public was that a rogue police unit was independently pursuing MacLennan, and under that pressure, he took his life. However, Collett's thorough investigation and analysis in 'A Death in Hong Kong' dispel this myth.

He shows that the SIU remained under strict control of senior legal officials, which dispels the myth that MacLennan was chased in a vendetta by a reckless police force. And, admittedly, while some investigators held anti-gay views, this is incidental to what unfolded. 

We know that briefings went up the chain of command and that instructions came down. MacLennan was targeted, not by the police but by the colonial administration. 

Meanwhile, Collett suggests that MacLehose, alarmed at claims of paedophilia within his inner circle, wished to shut down the inquiries. If true, this blatant exercise of power undermines his achievements. 

My only minor quibbles with the book do not undermine the main narrative. For example, I do not believe the suggestion that officers turned to corruption due to a lack of funding. The example of purchasing typewriters is mentioned. The scale and organisation of corruption suggest that greed was probably the real motive. 

The book mentions hapless reporter Ian Whitely attempting to prove it is possible to access MacLennan's flat through a bathroom window. He was seeking to establish how an assassin could gain access.

I remember watching that attempt on TV, which was unsuccessful. Whitely nearly fell down the building's light-well. Then again, he had a history of such stunts, including testing security at Government House. On one occasion, he climbed the perimeter wall but injured himself on a spike. 

The book is essential reading for anyone wanting to understand a tragic chapter in Hong Kong's history. Collett insists that the simple idea of murder as a cover-up is complete nonsense. However, you will still hear that scenario mentioned today. The truth is more complex and fascinating, but just as disheartening. 

January 2023