CONFIDENTIAL
Why exchange of Memoranda? Status?
22. The two governments agreed that separate exchange of memoranda was most appropriate way of dealing with nationality questions. Is associated with Joint Declaration and part of package as a whole.
Comprises unilateral statements setting out the position of each
side. The two sides agreed that they should be published.
initialled on same occasion as text of agreement.
Format of "new" British passports?
23.
Details not yet decided.
Texts
International recognition of SAR and new-style passports?
24.
Both SAR and new-style British passports will contain clear
statement of holder's right of abode in Hong Kong SAR. SAR
Government
Government
will be assisted or authorised by Central People's
to conclude visa abolition agreements. HMG will do all
they can to secure for holders of new-style British passports the
access to other countries as
as that enjoyed at present by holders
of BDTC passports. Every reason to be confident of international
acceptance of these passports.
s ame
Timing of Orders in Council to amend BNA
25.
Amendments will be needed to implement UK Memorandum.
These
will be put to the House in due course.
Acquisition of new status only until 1 July 1997?
26.
This was point of principle for Chinese. But able to negotiate
special arrangements for those born immediately before
before I July 1997
and those included in passports of parents before 1 July 1997.
Loss of transmissibility?
27.
Also point of principle for Chinese. HMG fought hard for it
but was forced to conclude finally that it was
finally that it was not negotiable.
CONFIDENTIAL