NATIONALITY ISSUES
Defensive
Phased Programme for Registration as British National
(Overseas) (BNOs)
The power to issue BNO passports ceases after 30 June 1997.
All British Dependent Territory Citizens (BDTCs) who wish to
retain British nationality must have registered as British
Nationals (Overseas) (BNOs) before that date.
Home Office to table Order in Council very shortly laying down
schedule for registration: a practical solution to this administrative problem of guaranteeing the new passports to all who want them before 1 July 1997.
- There is provision in the legislation for consideration of
late applications. The detail of arrangements has yet to be
decided.
Deferment of BNO Order in Council (If raised)
-
No point in deferment and no time. It would be irresponsible
of HMG not to give all BDTCs who wish to register the chance to
do so.
Phased registration with legally enforceable cut-off
dates will provide this opportunity.
- Without legally enforceable programme, cannot guarantee that Hong Kong Government would be able to process all applications and issue passports in time.
pts.fung.PR.JRB