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British
simply a corollory of British nationality: all
nationals including BOCs are Commonwealth citizens. But we
think it better not to draw their attention to the point by
approaching them preemptively, which would oblige them to
take up a position.
S'alowing
A C Galsworthy
Hong Kong Department
24 September 1985
1.
As Mr Galsworthy points out, this is a complex subject.
It is also one which arouses great emotions in Hong Kong.
The draft Order has now been discussed extensively with Hong
Kong and the Home Office. I agree with Mr Galsworthy that the
Government's position on it in the face of critics (particularly
the Indian community) is defensible. As far as the other critic,
Sir S Y Chung, is concerned, I also agree that his proposed
amendment would be quite unacceptable: that clearly is the view
of most members of EXCO.
2.
Although the Order in Council will be piloted through
Parliament by the Home Office, Mr Galsworthy is right to point
out the importance, in Hong Kong terms, of Foreign Office
Minister speaking in the debate.
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D C Wilson