CONFIDENTIAL
the GAS, 500 to the KES, 7,000 to the DSS and 6,300 to the SSs.
Some 14% of places will be held back for a second tranche of
allocations nearer to 1997 to cater for those who will by then
have moved into key positions. About 65% of all places are expected to go to the private sector.
Selection Methods
12.
The exact systems will need to be finalised in the light of
our revisions. Meanwhile, for illustrative purposes details of
the proposed methods of selection for each of the component
schemes are set out in Annex A. The effect is that I will grant
citizenship on the basis of recommendations from the Governor,
and I will be able to reject such recommendations only in limited
circumstances which will be defined in the Bill, ie where an
individual fails to satisfy the good character requirements.
13. In preparing recommendations, and overseeing the selection
scheme, the Governor will have the assistance of a high powered
Steering Group, which will be chaired by a very senior person
(probably the Chief Secretary) and which will work closely with
the Independent Commission Against Corruption, one of whose
directors may
may be
be a participant in the Group. There is the question whether HMG should be represented on this Steering
Group. Although there will obviously be an expectation that the
selection procedures for the award of British citizenship should
be monitored by HMG to some degree, I would want to guard against
too great an involvement in the operation of the selection
process. I shall consider this question further with the Foreign
Secretary in the light of further proposals from Hong Kong on
the precise constitution and formal role of the Steering Group.
Depending upon that role, it may be necessary to make provision
for the Group on the face of the Bill.
The Mechanics of Selection
CONFIDENTIAL
6