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again a disclaimer as described above might meet this.
11. But in any case in view of the continuing need to exercise
}
immigration control we have not ratified the 1963 Protocol
Number 4 to the Council of Europe Convention on Human Rights.
That Protocol guarantees the right of an individual to
enter the territory of the State of which he is a national.
12. There are clearly considerable difficulties in meeting
Hong Kong's request. However, the arguments for doing so,
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in the context of relations with Hong Kong, are very strong.
As concern over the future has increased, aso have fears in
Hong Kong about the effectiveness of HMG's commitment to the
territory. While there have been a number of issues (the
Multifibre Arrangement, Overseas Student Fees) which have
aroused resentment against London
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the Nationality Act
has produced the greatest disquiet. British administration
is an important factor in maintaining confidence and the
Nationality description is a symbol of this. To meet the Hong
Kong request would greatly assist confidence. Moreover,
people in Hong Kong need reassurance that they will continue
to enjoy full protection and consular assistance when
travelling abroad.
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13. HMG would be on particularly weak ground in opposing
the change since Hong Kong were told last year that it was
not possible for legal reasons. To inform them now that, on
the one hand our legal advisers agreed that there was no
/objection
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