C
G.F. 316
(a)
(b)
SECRET 高度機密
3
Constitutionally,
it would not be
possible
for us to discriminate against British nationals
in
elections held while Hong Kong is still under
British sovereignty.
It is not in any case clear to us who would be
a Chinese national within the
meaning of the
Chinese Nationality Law.
(c) Between
1995 and
the 1997,
nationality
of
individuals
could change.
Any
formula
worked out in 1995 could well be irrelevant
by 1997 in SO far as it applies to particular
individuals.
We
have,
however, said to the Chinese that we would be happy
to hear what ideas
they have on
implementing this
rule
in 1997.
6.
While
have we
not mentioned
attempt any
this to the Chinese,
by us to implement
it is also clear that
the 20%
involve
nationality rule before 1997 is very likely to
us
in
acting in
of contravention
the
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
as applied to
Letters Patent.
Hong Kong, and thus with Article VII(3) of the
problem
[NB: This would not be a
the Chinese after 1997 when the Basic Law will take effect.]
for
SECRET £**