TOCAAO (6)
CONFIDENTIAL
Working on a scheme to give assurance of right of abode to people
in private and public sectors on basis of value of service to Hong
Kong as well as connections with Britain.
Our aim is to give people whose professional, administrative,
technical and managerial skills are essential for continued success
of Hong Kong confidence to remain in the territory.
19.
When will nationality package be announced?
No decision has yet been taken.
But a lot of detailed work
Much progress has already been made.
still remains to be done. Essential to ensure that parameters of scheme are absolutely right for Hong Kong.
Delay does not in any way imply diminution in our commitment to
produce a package.
20.
UK should take lead in mobilising international rescue package
We recognise that Hong Kong people need to be given strongest
possible assurance that, should the worst occur, there would be help
for those in need of a home of last resort.
In such circumstances, we would mobilise international community
to help us if numbers were more than we could cope with alone.
Have already raised this matter with our friends and partners on
a number of occasions, including Madrid European Council and Paris
Economic Summit as well as in bilateral contacts.
Prime Minister will also be raising this issue at Commonwealth
Heads of Government Meeting in Kuala Lumpur.
21.
Do you see any scope for spreading burden with EC?
Have already discussed this matter with EC partners at Madrid
CONFIDENTIAL