PTAAEP (2)
CONFIDENTIAL
VISIT OF THE LORD GLENARTHUR TO HONG KONG: 29 JUNE
1 JULY 1988
BRIEF NO 18: PROPOSAL FOR BRITISH CONSULAR REPRESENTATION IN HONG
KONG
Objectives
1.
[If raised] To explain why British "consular" representation in Hong Kong before 1997 would be unnecessary and inappropriate.
Points to Make
[Defensive only
wwwwww
general use]
Long-standing policy for interests of expatriate British citizens resident in Dependent Territories to be looked after by the local Government acting on behalf of HMG.
Not aware of any evidence that this is not done efficiently. Hong Kong Immigration Department Officials are well versed in Diplomatic Service Procedures, are bilingual and serve expatriates
very well.
All residents of Hong Kong under British jurisdiction until 1997. Until then Hong Kong Government's authority must remain clear and unimpaired. Believe there would be practical, political and presentational difficulties in setting up a separate office for expatriate British citizens at such a sensitive time.
A sizeable British Consulate-General is envisaged for Hong Kong post 1997 which will look after expatriates. Handover intended to be as smooth as possible to avoid disrupting services to British
citizens.
[If raised] My understanding is that Hong Kong Government took extensive action in 1986 and again in 1987, in accordance with standard FCO instructions to overseas posts, to publicise arrangements for registering overseas electors.
[If raised] Accept that special arrangements have been made by agreement with China, to simplify immigration to China for ethnic Chinese residents of Hong Kong. But you will understand that they reflect particular Chinese view about status of these residents. Cannot be seen as discrimination by Hong Kong Government. connection with issue of British representation in Hong Kong.
No
CONFIDENTIAL
18