CONFIDENTIAL
SECRETARY OF STATE'S WORKING LUNCH WITH NETHERLAND'S FOREIGN
MINISTER: 27 MARCH
References: A. The Hague Telno 25
B.
C.
The Hague Telno 107
Note from HKG on trade with the Netherlands
BACKGROUND
They have
1. The Dutch Foreign Minister, Van den Broek, is aware of our
request. But Dutch reaction has so far been unhelpful.
made clear that they could not alter their normal residence
requirements for citizenship.
some other form of assurance.
But they may be prepared to consider
Mr
2. Mr Maude discussed the subject of Dutch assistance on
international support with Van den Broek on 21 March. The
Netherlands government are sympathetic to the problem but
categorically stated they could not issue passports to non-nationals
and advance residence permits would create an awkward precedent.
Van Den Broek did however say that they would look at this again
without commitment to see what could be done. A secondment scheme
might help to overcome their legal worries.
3=
There are seven wholly owned Dutch companies and four joint
ventures currently operating in Hong Kong representing an investment
of HK$682 billion and annual sales of HK$1.6 billion, employing 4,140 people. Dutch trade with Hong Kong is HK$12.5 billion per
annum. The Liberals, traditionally the party of business in Holland
are currently in Opposition. It may be that with some judicious
lobbying they might put pressure on the government to do more than
it has up to now. We shall seek the Embassy's advice.
SAMABO
CONFIDENTIAL