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(ii)
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
(a)
Portugal is reportedly seeking entry to the EEC in which event residents of Macau, as residents of an overseas province of Portugal, may enjoy more favourable rights of entry to and economic benefits from EEC countries. Members are concerned about the economic and political consequences for Hong Kong of this possible development, and would appreciate advice from the FCO on the position and on how Hong Kong's interests can be protected.
(b) Discussion touched on whether
Hong Kong interests, particularly trading interests, were always adequately represented by British consular posts overseas and, with the implementation of the White Paper on British Nationality Law, whether Hong Kong residents travelling overseas would be entitled to full British consular assistance and protection.
It
Sir Hugh Cortazzi was most reassuring on these points. However, Members felt it might be timely to seek a re-statement of the FCO's consular obligations towards Hong Kong. was also suggested that the FCO's reactions should be sought to the possibility of establishing direct Hong Kong representation in selected overseas FCO posts.
With Your Excellency's concurrence, it is suggested that these points be referred to Her Majesty's Government for consideration.
Yours sincerely,
W bluing
S.Y. CHUNG)
SYC/1w
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