CONFIDENTIAL
4. Since Lord Elton is committed to handing over a letter (which could be leaked in Hong Kong) we suggest that the question of requirements for entry to the UK in respect of businessmen who wish to invest in the UK, and persons of independent means, should be covered in the following objective terms:-
'Those who do not, as British citizens, have the right of abode in the United Kingdom mav qualify for entry as businessmen or as persons of independent means. As well as having possession of sufficient disposable funds applicants have to demonstrate a close connection with the United Kingdom or show that their admission would be in the general interests of the country. A copy of paragraphs 35-38 of the current Immigration Rules is attached. These explain what the categories of businessmen and self-employed persons mean. The figures for disposable funds in paragraphs 35 and 38 will be raised to £150,000 and £15,000 respectively with effect from 1 January 1983 as a result of the proposed changes to the Rules currently before Parliament.
The correct procedure is to lodge an annlication with the Immigration Department in Hong Kong or any or our Missions in other countries. No categorical assurances can be given in advance that a person will qualify for entry into the UK'..
Would you kindly let me and the copy addressees of this letter have a copy of the letter issued to Lord Shepherd.
5.
cc to:
TD Burton Esq, HKGD
R M Sands Esq, MVD
FH Brown
Nationality and Treaty Department
CONFIDENTIAL