SIR JOHN WHEELER MP: VISIT TO HONG KONG 29 DEC 4 JAN 1992
-
NATIONALITY/IMMIGRATION ISSUES
SPOUSES AND WIDOWS OF BRITISH CITIZENS AND EX-SERVICEMEN
Line to take
We understand the concern which has been expressed about the immigration status of the wives and widows of British citizens and ex-servicemen in Hong Kong. With this in mind, the Home Secretary gave an assurance during the passage of the British Nationality (Hong Kong) Act 1990 that the widows of British citizens or former servicemen would be allowed to settle in the United Kingdom at any time, either before or after 1997, provided only that they are still resident in Hong Kong and have not remarried.
The wives of British citizens or ex-servicemen can, of course, accompany their husbands to the UK for settlement at any time. The Government has also introduced arrangements which enable the spouses of British citizens or ex-servicemen to be registered with the Immigration Department in Hong Kong, So that any subsequent application for entry clearance can be processed very quickly indeed.
During the Foreign Secretary's visit to China earlier this year, it emerged that some of those concerned were still unsure of their position if they wished to settle in the United Kingdom. Mr Peter Lloyd MP, the Home Office
the Home Office Minister responsible for immigration, accordingly wrote to Baroness Dunn, the Senior Member of OMELCO, setting out the terms of the undertakings which have been given. A copy of this letter is attached.