Y
[JA1ANB]
CONFIDENTIAL
MR EGGAR'S MEETING WITH DR MEYER-LANDRUT: 8 NOVEMBER 1985
Abolition of FRG Visa Requirements for Hong Kong British Dependent
Territories Citizens
(HKBDTCs)
Background
1.
FRG only EC member to require visas for Hong Kong visitors.
So France abolished requirement in 1983 and Austria did act last year.
2.
Previous approaches by HMG to Auswaertiges Amt for visa abolition for Hong Kong visitors in 1980 and 1982 appear to have foundered on West German concern that Hong Kong overstayers could not easily be deported to Hong Kong. (However there is no reason to
believe that this would be a problem: there are direct flights between FRG and Hong Kong and most of those repatriated to Hong Kong from other countries are able to pay their fares, or seek help from
British missions to do so.)
3.
(a)
(b)
Two developments since 1982:
British Nationality Act has converted all citizens of United Kingdom and Colonies passport-holders with right of abode in Hong Kong into HKBDTCS. This does not affect their position vis-a-vis FRG (including returnability).
Agreement on the future of Hong Kong has been signed (19 December 1984) and ratified (27 May 1985) by HMG and Chinese Government. This may have (illogically) strengthened FRG concern about Hong Kong overstayers seeking asylum in FRG.
4.
However, Hong Kong have recently advised us that the West German Consul General has consulted with them (in strict confidence) about his intention to submit to his own authorities a proposal to remove FRG visa restrictions on Hong Kong passport holders. intention in doing so is apparently to reduce the costs and
He has told difficulties caused to the Consulate by visa work.
His
CONFIDENTIAL