Cs (except those connected with Gibraltar), BOCS,
British subjects without the right of abode and BPPs as well
as BN(O)s; also British citizens solely by connection with
the Channel Islands and Isle of Man. As the Home Secretary
now has responsibility for passport policy matters, the
decision on the format of such a 'common format look-alike'
passport rests of course with him, although Governors
of dependent territories have theoretical autonomy. There
have been consultations between the HO and the interested
FCO departments.
I confirm that the second paragraph of
Mr Hyde's letter accurately reflects the outcome of these
deliberations.
3.
ECD(I) agree.
Although the lead responsibility for the decision on
format lies with HO Ministers, FCO Ministers will wish to
be aware of the HO proposals and concur. I believe we should
make a parallel submission to our Ministers and a draft is
being prepared›
PASSPORTS FOR BN (0)S
4.
BN(0) is the new nationality status which is to be
created for BDTCs connected with Hong Kong who will
cease to be BDTCs on 1 July 1997 in accordance with
The
the British memorandum annexed to the agreement with the
Republic of China on the future of Hong Kong.
intention is that the new status shall be introduced from
1 July 1987, so that passports can continue to be issued
with the normal 10-year validity. (The validity of any
passports showing BDTC status issued to persons connected
with Hong Kong who will lose that status after 30 June 1997
will not extend beyond that date).
AUTHORITY FOR ISSUE
. 5. It would not be acceptable to the Chinese that
passports issued to BN(0)s, which will continue to be
valid after 30 June 1997, should be issued by the
Governor