David Akers-Jones facts for kids

Sir David Akers-Jones (born April 14, 1927 – died September 30, 2019) was an important British official who worked in Hong Kong. He served as the Chief Secretary of Hong Kong from 1985 to 1987. For a short time, he was also the acting Governor of Hong Kong after the previous Governor, Sir Edward Youde, passed away.

Life and Career in Hong Kong

Early Life and Education

David Akers-Jones was born David Akers Jones in Worthing, England. His father, Walter George Jones, managed a brick factory. His mother, Dorothy Akers, was a schoolteacher. He later added 'Akers' to his last name. He went to Worthing High School and then studied at Brasenose College, Oxford University.

Joining the Hong Kong Government

Sir David arrived in Hong Kong in 1957. Before that, he worked for three years in Malaysia. He joined the Hong Kong Government in the summer of 1957. Over his long career, he held many important jobs.

Helping Hong Kong Grow

One of his key roles was as the Secretary for the New Territories. In this job, he helped change small villages into "new towns." These new towns became busy places with factories and apartment buildings. This helped many people who lived in crowded areas on Hong Kong Island find new homes. He also served as the Secretary for Home Affairs and later as the Chief Secretary.

Acting Governor and Retirement

In December 1986, Sir David became the acting Governor of Hong Kong. This happened after the sudden death of Governor Sir Edward Youde. He served in this role until April 1987. After retiring as Chief Secretary in 1987, he continued to help the government. He was also the Chairman of the Hong Kong Housing Authority from 1987 to 1992. This organization helps provide housing for people in Hong Kong.

Later Years and Contributions

Before Hong Kong became part of China in 1997, Sir David was an advisor to the Chinese government. He was known for living a quiet life in Hong Kong after he retired. He and his wife bought and fixed up a villa called "Dragon View."

Ideas for Hong Kong's Future

Sir David had some ideas about how Hong Kong should be run. He thought the government should plan cities better and not always reclaim land from the sea. He also believed in keeping some special voting groups in the government. He suggested they could form an "upper house" in a two-part law-making body.

Sharing His Experiences

In his later years, Sir David often wrote letters and articles for newspapers like the South China Morning Post. In 2004, he published a book about his memories called Feeling the Stones.

Helping Others

Sir David was very involved in charity work. He was the honorary chairman of the Bridge to China foundation (Wu Zhi Qiao). This group builds footbridges in rural parts of mainland China. He also helped start Outward Bound Hong Kong, which teaches outdoor skills. He was a vice-president of the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association. He also supported the Hong Kong Football Association.

He was a trustee and vice-president of the Worldwide Fund for Nature Hong Kong. He also chaired the Jackie Chan Charitable Foundation. Sir David was involved with Operation Smile China Medical Mission and the English-Speaking Union (Hong Kong). In 2014, he founded Invotech, a group that helps spread new ideas and technology in Hong Kong.

Personal Life

In 1951, Sir David married Jane Spickernell. She was also recognized for her public service. They adopted two children, a son named Simon and a daughter named Byrony. Sadly, Simon passed away in 1981.

Passing Away

Sir David Akers-Jones passed away on September 30, 2019, at the age of 92. He died in Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Hong Kong. His wife, Jane, had passed away earlier in 2002.