CODE 18-77
HKC031/10
25/6
0/2
Reference
Mr January WIAD
20 JUN 1990
fi
DC 410/8
52
ра
Ilos general
EXTENSION OF INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS TO DEPENDENT TERRITORIES
1. In conjunction with HKD, I I have recently come across several cases where the UK is almost ready to ratify certain
nternational conventions, but no consideration had been given to the position of the DTS. I see from DSP that WIAD are responsible for ensuring that FCO departments give due consideration to the needs of DTS when Conventions are to be ratified. That is clearly difficult, if not impossible, if WIAD
aware that
in hand. steps to ratify are (Admittedly, in the case of one Protocol to a Convention for which SCD are responsible, we started consideration of the position of DTS, but the question slipped from view.)
not are
2. I imagine that in most cases, FCO departments do not take the lead in Whitehall over the substance of a particular Convention (particularly where there is a need for Legislation to give effect to it).
to it). On that basis, departments are
are not often likely to have to deal with the ratification of Conventions, and the position of DTs might go by default unless desk officers have had particular reason to deal with DTS in other contexts.
3. I wonder whether it would be worth your while, in conjunction with NTD and MRS, considering what might be done. to avoid this sort of problem It might be worth issuing a circular, for bring up every six months or annually, drawing attention to the need to consider the position of DTS when international treaties are being considered, and referring to the relevant volume of DSP.
4. If you do take that action, I recommend that you stress the importance of considering the position of DTs as early. as possible, and preferably before signature rather than immediately before ratification of treaties. As we have discovered, leaving it until that point can cause a number of Legal, procedural, technical and practical problems.
5.
I shall shortly be consulting you separately on certain international instruments.
لسبيل
T Wood
Security Coordination Department
18 June 1990
WH MZ 23
CW3AIJ
270 2584
/cc: