CONFIDENTIAL

D

(c) an annex to

the letter containing

further

background and suitable for handing over to host

governments.

E

6.

These are general texts intended for use with all

foreign and Commonwealth governments. But, in consultation

with the Hong Kong Government, we have agreed that it would

be appropriate to make supplementary points to a number of

governments. Generally speaking these are governments

which are, for one reason or another, currently looking at

their visa régimes in

in respect of Hong Kong BDTCS. The purpose of the supplementary approach is two-fold:

(a)

(b)

The

to urge the maintenance or, where appropriate,

the introduction of a visa-free régime for Hong

Kong BDTCS; and

to urge that this situation should also apply

in future to BN (0)s.

Governments involved

are for the most part western

European. The text of a supplementary speaking note for

Heads of Mission to use with these governments is at Flag

E.

F

7.

The Canadians

Canada is also a special case in that visa-free access

(which BDTCs currently enjoy) for BN (0) s will require

amendment to the Canadian Immigration Rules.

have told us informally that this ought to be possible, but

a formal approach will be needed to request

to request the necessary

amendments. A supplementary speaking note which it is

proposed the High Commissioner in Ottawa should use for

this purpose is at Flag F.

8.

There is still unease in Hong Kong about nationality

arrangements and fear that the BN (0) passport will not

prove a worthwhile document. It will be important for HMG

to be seen to act vigorously to promote and secure

CONFIDENTIAL

Share This Page