Mr. Martis, HKD. "Jeala
Many thanks.
REACTION IN HONG KONG TO THE SECOND READING OF THE BRITISH
NATIONALITY (HONG KONG) BILL
20
Line to take
The first reactions in Hong Kong show that the news of the passing
of the second reading of the Bill has been widely welcomed.
Groups and individuals, including "Honour Hong Kong" and "Hong
Kong People Saving Hong Kong", the Senior ExCo Member Dame Lydia
Dunn, campaigner Jack Edwards and LegCo member Mirian Lau all
welcomed the news of the vote.
CHINESE REACTION: NEW CHINA NEWS AGENCY CONDEMNATION OF BILL
We have taken pains to explain to the Chinese our reasons for
introducing these proposals, and believe that they will in time come
to accept them as a sincere contribution to Hong Kong's successful
transition to Chinese sovereignty.
In the Government's view the Bill does not contravene the Joint
Declaration or the associated exchange of memoranda. Nothing in the
British memorandum precludes the Government from granting full British citizenship to anyone in Hong Kong. Indeed, far from being
contrary to the Joint Declaration the Government's measures are
fully consistent with our obligation under the Declaration to maintain the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.
FABAKG