CONFIDENTIAL
LORD PRIVY SEAL'S VISIT TO HONG KONG: 8 TO 10 JANUARY 1982
BRIEF NO 17: MEETING WITH UMELCO
POINTS TO MAKE
MULTI-FIBRE ARRANGEMENT
1.
(See Brief No 7 - Line to Take with Textile Advisory Board).
NATIONALITY ACT
2.
Understand importance of Bill for Hong Kong and appreciate
your contribution. Am also grateful to Governor for way he handled
this very difficult matter and put Hong Kong's case so well. We did
make changes at your request, eg separate category for British
Dependent Territories' Citizens, naturalisation by registration.
But regret could not meet your wishes on British National amendment.
It would have led to confusion. HMG would have opposed it in
Commons if Lords had passed it.
Ministers have made it quite
clear that the Act does not affect our commitment to Hong Kong.
I reaffirm that.
OVERSEAS STUDENTS'
3.
FEES
Regret the need to raise students' fees but too costly for
HMG. Would have like special arrangements for Hong Kong students
but no money available.
Overseas Student Trust examining problem.
We must await their report dùe later in year. Applaud your student
loan scheme.
VIETNAMESE REFUGEES
4. Admire Hong Kong's role and appreciate difficulties.
But
frankly cannot hold out hope of further UK quota.
We have already
done a good deal. Political climate in UK firmly against
immigration. Problems of resources, jobs and accommodation. But
I will of course report your views to Lord Carrington.
CONFIDENTIAL
/IMMIGRATION