PART 4
Exchange of Memoranda on Nationality
4.65 Most of those who commented on the Exchange of Memoranda on nationality did so in adverse or critical terms. Comments concentrated
on:
-the change of the BDTC status,
-right of abode,
-consular protection in the Hong Kong SAR.
4.66 The statement in the United Kingdom Memorandum that all Hong Kong British Dependent Territories citizens (BDTCs) would cease to be recognized as such from 1 July 1997 attracted strong adverse comments from those affected who feel bitter at the change in prospect for them. A feeling that the United Kingdom had failed in its moral obligation towards the two million Hong Kong BDTCs led to expressions of frustration and sometimes anger, particularly from those who recalled their pledges of loyalty on naturalization. Some asked for assistance in re-settling in the United Kingdom. As the individual letters put it:-
"With one stroke of the pen, you have stripped us of our identity and slotted us into racial categories—an unforgiveable act . .
"I feel taking the oath of allegiance to the Queen to be very serious and am disillusioned by what the British Government has done."
4.67 Those who commented adversely on these provisions sought to make the points that the United Kingdom had deliberately distanced herself from Hong Kong, and had failed to provide an alternative right of residence either in Britain or elsewhere for those who were looking for an escape route should the situation in Hong Kong after 1997 demand this.
"Britain disabled herself a long time ago when she closed the door to Hong Kong. She did this by a series of nationality acts which turned the Hong Kong Passport holder into a second-class citizen."
The Hon. J. J. Swaine, Legislative Councillor
4.68 One argument advanced was that the United Kingdom's fear of mass immigration from Hong Kong was unfounded. As one individual put it:
With regard to the well-publicised fear that BDTC passport holders will rush to the United Kingdom, it is a well-known fact that people here are very practical and won't want to go to a place where they cannot find employment and support themselves unless they are forced to."
To leave the door open, it was argued, would be the best way to ensure not only the most favourable agreement, but also that there would be no exodus from Hong Kong.
4.69 Other points made related to the need for British consular protection for BDTCs and their first generation descendants in Hong Kong after 1997, the feeling of betrayal by those who had acquired BDTC status
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