x
As I Trecath, During the passage of the Bill there
were several estimates as to how many people might apply,
ranging from a quarter of a million up to three quarters of a million. But 50,000 is the figure specified in the legislation. So,although your suggestion of granting all applicants a passport may seem attractive, it would not be possible without further primary legislation
to go
above the figure of 50,000
10,000
Your other idea of granting the oldest 15,000 passports on compassionate grounds is also appealing in theory, but it would go against the principles of the selection scheme, which gives an advantage to those
between the ages of 30 and 40.
It is always unfortunate having to disappoint unsuccessful applicants, but there is evidence that there has already been a considerable amount of self de-selection; because the points scheme is so transparent it appears that only those who worked out that they had good chance of success have applied. It would be unfair on those who decided not to apply if we now changed the rules. And The selection scheme is in any
case so detailed and objective that the Governor's task
much simplified. of picking out the unsuccessful candidates is really not
so dreadful
We are confident that the nationality scheme has already done its job in helping to restore confidence in Hong Kong. I am grateful for your interest in this
subject.
DOUGLAS HURD