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SECRETARY OF STATE'S MEETING WITH SIR S Y CHUNG AND MR O V CHEUNG ON 2 FEBRUARY 1981
NEW NATIONALITY LEGISLATION:
POSITION OF LOCALLY-ENGAGED CIVIL SERVANTS AND UNOFFICIALS IN HONG KONG
POINTS TO MAKE
1. Fully understand the importance of the effect of the
introduction of the Bill on officials and Unofficials in
Hong Kong.
2. Will discuss with the Home Secretary whether assurance
can be provided in the Bill or in some other way for people
who may be in a special position because of their public service.
Obviously such an assurance would have to be discretionary
and must be in general, not specific, terms. Otherwise there
could be difficulties both in the United Kingdom and in
3.
Hong Kong.
in Hong Kong.
4.
Particularly important not to disturb confidence
There is time to consider. Mr Raison said that the problem
could be considered in Committee. This will take 2 months in
the Commons and there will be further discussion in the Lords.
5. Will ensure that Mr Whitelaw is aware of this problem.
But most unlikely he would have any definite answer by Friday.
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