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Sir Noel Plunkett Power |
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A Star Debater Sir Noel studied Arts and Law at the University of Queensland, and was a member of the winning team in the Inter-Varsity Debating Competition. On 27 March 1965, Noel Plunkett Power married Irma Maroya |
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| Judicial Career |
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Sir Noel’s judicial career in Hong Kong spanned some 34 years, beginning with his appointment as a Magistrate in 1965 and ending with his retirement in 1997, as Acting Chief Justice of the High Court. In his role as Acting Chief Justice, Sir Noel oversaw the tumultuous period before the transfer of power from Britain to China. He continues to sit on the Court of Final Appeal in Hong Kong as a non-permanent judge. Since retirement, Sir Noel has also been appointed as a Commissioner on the Brunei Court of Appeal. |
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| Sir Noel Plunkett Power in judicial robes | ||||||||||||||
| International Wine and Food Society | ||||||||||||||
The International Wine and Food Society was founded in London in 1933, by André Simon. Today, the International Wine and Food Society remains the most prestigious and widespread independent gastronomic society in the world. Sir Noel Power was the Chairman of the Asia-Pacific Zone of the Society from 1994 to 2000, and continues to head the Gold Coast branch of the Society. |
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| Other Appointments | ||||||||||||||
Sir Noel has also held several other positions. Chairman of Board of Inquiry into the Future of Radio and Television in Hong Kong, 1987 |
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In 2000, Sir Noel was invited back to Hong Kong to chair the Hong Kong University Independent Investigation Panel. The panel investigated allegations that the Chinese government had attempted to interfere with the university’s activities, threatening its academic independence. Sir Noel’s selection as the chair of the committee was strongly supported by the local bar association and Democratic Party; both praised his judicial ability and independence. |
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| Honours | ||||||||||||||
The Gold Bauhinia Star The Bauhinia Star is awarded to persons who have rendered distinguished service to the community or to their respective fields of business for a long period of time. The Gold Bauhinia Star (GBS) is awarded to eminent persons who have given very distinguished service to the community or who have rendered public or voluntary service of a very high degree of merit. Sir Noel Power received the honour in 1999, to recognise his contribution to Hong Kong over his 34 year judicial career. |
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Sir Noel and Lady Power at Buckingham Palace Courtesy Sir Noel Power |
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Medal of Knights Bachelor In 1999, Sir Noel received his knighthood from Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II for his long service to the British Commonwealth in Hong Kong. Sir Noel received this honour alongside Julie Andrews and Elizabeth Taylor and his ceremonial booklet bears Julie Andrews’ autograph! |
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