(e)
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a language requirement is introduced (though this
:
would probably not represent a serious problem);
and
(f)
ride 13.⠀⠀
a discretion has been substituted for an entitlement.
Whilst it is noted that the Bill introduces a concession vim menlupaby allowing husbands as well as wives to seek naturalisation after
three years' residence, the fact remains that the Bill would result in eroding the existing right of a Hong Kong CUKC woman who may wish to marry a British citizen. Furthermore, a Hong Kong CUKC woman would be in a position no different from that of an alien
woman who marries a British citizen. We consider that this should be redressed by an amendment to the Bill along the lines of Annex C.
C
G.F. 324
Crown and Other Service
14.
1
Another serious objection to the Bill is that it has failed
to give any recognition to the loyalty and public service which Unofficials and officials in Hong Kong have given and continue to give to the Crown. Indeed, the combination of Clause 4(1) of the Bill, together with paragraph 1(1)(d)(ii) and 1(3) of Schedule 1, together with the definitions of "Crown Service" and "Crown service under the government of the United Kingdom" in Clause 46(1), excludes
the opportunity; should eventualities so require, of permitting such Unofficials and officials (who may satisfy certain minimum requirements of service) to acquire British citizenship unless they are first permitted to, and do, reside in the UK. In our opinion, it is vital that the Bill as finally passed does not contain this
exclusion.
15.
Such Unofficials and officials would be expected to stay
at their posts in Hong Kong in any period of tension or transition, and the very real need to provide them with some assurance that does not involve a residence qualification in the UK is obvious
and will not be repeated here. We would have wished this to be provided in the form of an entitlement to be registered as a British Citizen, bearing in mind the constitutional position of
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/Hong Kong