L
SECRET
2
"
HMG's Public Line.
5.
No statement need be volunteered when the administrative change is made. There might not be much reaction since there would be no change in legislation. However, defensively we should take the following line:
a. The change applies to all Dependencies (not just
Hong Kong); it underlines our special commitment to them and recognises our international law obligation to protect BDTCs abroad.
b. There is no right of entry for BDTCS and this is
spelled out in the passport.
c. National status does not in itself confer a right
of abode.
12 November 1982
Дир
R D Clift
Hong Kong and General Department
SECRET