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IMG is doing too little
24. It is considered unlikely that there will be any significant body of
opinion in favour of giving all who hold the new status the right of
abode in the UK. There may be some members, however, who will press
for this right to be accorded to those BDTCs who are not Chinese
nationals. Ministers may wish to point out in reply that BDTCs who are not Chinese nationals but who have made their home in Hong Kong are able to retain their right of abode there. Ministers might also wish to
emphasize that all Hong Kong BDTCs, whatever their ethnic origin, will
be able to acquire the new nationality status and use it for travel
purposes.
25. Some members, while agreeing that it would be wrong to give Hong Kong
BDTCs the right of abode in the UK, may argue that those who want to
leave Hong Kong should be able to come here for settlement if they wish.
Ministers will wish to take the line that it would be wrong to single out
Hong Kong BDTCs as a group for such favourable treatment. The whole
emphasis of the agreement has been towards creating a secure future for
Hong Kong and an environment in which its people can continue to live
with confidence. Those former BDTCs who wish to come here will therefore
gally have to satisfy the requirements of the Immigration Rules.
undertakings
[If pressed, reference to those to whom assurances have or will be given
that they may come here for settlement.]
Acquisition of new status and benefits to be enjoyed
26. There are also likely to be some members who will press for specific
statements to be made in the Bill about the procedures for the acquisition of the new status and of the passports pertaining to it. Ministers may wish to take the line that it would not be appropriate to include such details in the Bill. Its function is to provide an enabling power for
the drafting of an Order in Council, which will itself be debated in
Parliament. There has not yet been time to reach final decisions on all
the detailed arrangements that will be required. These arrangements will necessitate consultation with the Hong Kong Government and the Executive Council of Hong Kong.
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