CONFIDENTIAL
12.
with
was
In August 1985, Her Majesty's Government initiated discussions
the Chinese Government on the wording of a statement to be
included in British National (Overseas) passports which would
indicate clearly to immigration authorities in third countries that
the holder had the right of abode in Hong Kong. Agreement
sought for the statement to remain valid over the life of the
It would thus be valid both before and after 1997. At
the same time, agreement
sought for the new permanent identity
cards, which the Hong Kong Government wish to
from 1 July
after 1997 by
passport.
was
is sue
1987, to remain valid un til they are replaced
identity cards of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
(f) Legislation and Treaties
13.
In due
course Hong Kong will ask for Orders in Council to be
made, under the Hong Kong Act 1985, enabling the Hong Kong
Government to enac t local legislation to replace United Kingdom
laws which at present apply to Hong Kong. Examples of such laws
are those relating to merchant shipping and civil aviation.
Treaties affecting Hong Kong, and arrangements for setting up а
court of final appeal in Hong Kong, are also being looked in to.
Some of these subjects, particularly the question of ensuring the
continued application of international rights and obligations
affecting Hong Kong, will be discussed with the Chinese Government
through the Joint Liaison Group.
(g)
Shipping
14.
In May 1985 the Hong Kong Government issued a consultative
document outlining initial thinking for a separate, autonomous Hong
Kong Register of Shipping; there was a constructive response the shipping industry, which is now being studied.
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CONFIDENTIAL