CODE 18-77
AWO Ltd. 7/84
CONFIDENTIAL
Reference..
DB1AHQ
244
Mr Lloyd, Consular Dept
CONSULAR
PROTECTION/ASSISTANCE
TO
HONG
KONG
CERTIFICATE OF IDENTITY HODLERS
1.
SO
As you know, the current position is that Consular posts offer ifhormak protection to HKCOI holders in serious trouble abroad, although strictly speaking we have no legal right to do
(Consular Dept circular letter no 20/85, CK 405/393/01
CK
of 23 October 1985 refers).
I understand that we also provide certain services such as assisting with repatriation and renewal of travel documents.
2.
We and
and Hong Kong are currently developing an approach to
the Chinese concerning Hong Kong Certificates of Identity in general and what to do for the post 1997 period. A paper on the subject is to be handed to the Chinese in mid-February. One particular issue which
like to cover is consular services.
3.
should we
We realise that in normal circumstances we will not be able to offer these services to HKCOI holders after 30 June 1997 and that they should become the responsibility of Chinese missions. But Hong Kong have enquired whether it would be possible for HMG to come to some
PROG for British the arrangements with posts to offer assistance after that date in countries where China had no diplomatic representation, eg South Korea and Indonesia. I realise that this might not be possible but all things pertaining to nationality and passports and travel documents
particularly
contentious issues in Hong Kong and we are therefore trying to be as positive as possible in these matters. Could you please therefore consider this point and let me have your views as soon as possible.
4.
I attach copies of relevant telegrams.
EWHIC
M T Hill
5 February 1986
Hong Kong Department
CONFIDENTIAL
DB1AHQ
HHH 04014
RECEIVED IN REGISTRY
- 7 FEB 1986
INDLA