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Still vigorously pursuing our efforts to mobilise international
support for Hong Kong. Raised this question at Madrid European
Council and Paris Economic Summit. Prime Minister will also raise
Also taking every opportunity to raise this matter bilaterally with our partners.
at CHOGM.
Response so far quite encouraging. Paris Summit Declaration
acknowledged that international community has important role to play
in rebuilding confidence in Hong Kong. Canadian Prime Minister has
stated publicly that this is a problem with which no one country alone could cope.
Some countries have already taken specific steps. For example, French have issued a limited number of passports to Hong Kong employees of French firms. Singapore has also extended immigration
scheme to blue and white collared workers, while allowing successful
applicants to remain in Hong Kong until they choose to leave.
As you know we are working hard on scheme to give assurance of
right of abode in UK to people in both private and public sector on
basis of value of service to Hong Kong as well as connections with
UK.
But announcement unlikely to be made before your visit to Hong
Kong.
(If raised
Hong Kong should all be given right to come to UK in
first instance so that they can be sure of being able to leave Hong
Kong in event of catastrophe).
Hong Kong people have right to come to the UK as visitors for up
to 3 months.
Right of exit already guaranteed under Joint Declaration and
Article 31 of draft Basic Law which refers to "freedom of entry and
exit".
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