CONFIDENTIAL
implausible.
The immigration position is already clear; Hong
Kong passports will bearthe endorsement: 'Holder is subject to control under Immigration Act 1971'.
6. Hong Kong see 'British national' not only as symbol of
UK's continuing role in and in relation to territory, but
also as reassurance of our continuing responsibility for
protection and consular assistance abroad.
7.
Recognise we should need to extend concession to other
British Dependent Territory Citizens for uniformity,but
these comparatively few in number and would not present
problem.
Defensive
8.
This could give rise to demands from British Overseas citizens for similar concession; no pressure so far and could be resisted as different category from BDTCS.
Defensive
9.
If argued that whatever Hong Kong say now, 'British
national' in passports could be used against us later to
press for admission to UK if Hong Kong belongers left in
numbers.
Extra words 'British national' in passport would not
strengthen any legal arguments for admission beyond those
already stemming from the possession of a British passport
and status under the Nationality Act. In any case, if
we refuse we would face a crisis of confidence in Hong
Kong now, which could contribute to people wishing to
leave.
Defensive
10. Doubtful that there would be any particular reaction
from Chinese Government. Chinese have not so far made any
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