W
CONFIDENTIAL
KONG BDTCs?
None. The Bill merely provides an enabling power for HMG to
introduce a subsequent Order in Council.
Subject to
parliamentary approval this Order will give effect to the provisions of the UK Memorandum. but even then Hong Kong BDTCs
will retain the status of BDTC, which will not be affected in
until any way,
1 July 1997. They will also
to be eligible
retain another form of British nationality for the rest of
their lives.
NEED FOR CUT-OFF DATE FOR APPLICATIONS
those born
UK Memorandum provides that new status can only be acquired by those who have obtained a British passport before 1 July 1997
(with
of exception
1 after
January 1997).
Administratively necessary to set cut-off date for applications
to allow time for processing them and issuing passports. (Those who do not already hold BDTC passports will have to demonstrate eligibility).
PROVISION FOR THOSE AT RISK TO COME TO UK?
In certain very
very limited cases certain rights of admission will
exist under the discretion of
of the Home Secretary. These will
be оп a very limited basis for people
to special exposed
considerations and special factors. [Assurances have been given by HMG to some people in Hong Kong that, because of their service to the Crown, if they wish to apply they will be
permitted to settle in the UK and remain here.
assurances
These
extend to the spouse and dependent children under 18 of those concerned].
CONFIDENTIAL