CONFIDENTIAL
HOUSE OF LORDS: DEBATE ON HONG KONG: 21 MAY 1984
NOTES FOR SUPPLEMENTARIES
Residual Status for Britain in Hong Kong After 1997
1. My right Honourable and learned friend said in his statement in
Hong Kong on 20 April that it was not realistic to contemplate
continued British administration in Hong Kong after 1997, and that we are aiming to secure a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong under Chinese sovereignty. I think the meaning of that statement is
clear.
Undertaking to British Dependent Territories Citizens or People in
Hong Kong (General)
2. We are working for an agreement which will encourage all
Hong Kong people to continue living in the territory.
Admission to UK: Present Immigration Position of British Dependent
Territories Citizens
3.
Hong Kong British Dependent Territories Citizens (BDTCs) have the right of abode in Hong Kong. They are subject to our
immigration control and do not have the right of abode in the
United Kingdom. If a BDTC wished to come and settle in the United Kingdom he would have to qualify under an appropriate heading int he Immigration Rules approved by Parliament. There is provision in the Rules for certain categories of dependants of persons already in the United Kingdom tobe admitted for settlement. There is also
provision for people who can meet certain requirements to come for employment or as businessmen or as persons of independent means. man so admitted may bring his wife and children under 18. To
secure entry by any of these means prior entry clearance is
required. The precise qualifications needed are laid down in the
rules.
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CONFIDENTIAL
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