NATIONALITY ISSUES
Phased Programme for Registration as British National (Overseas) (BNOs)
- The power to issue British National (Overseas) BNO passports ceases after 30 June 1997. All British Dependent Territory Citizens (BDTCS) who wish to retain British nationality must therefore have registered as BNOS before that date.
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- Home Office currently preparing an Order in Council laying down schedule for registration a practical solution to this administrative problem for guaranteeing the new passports to all who want them. Must be done before 1 July 1997.
Without legally enforceable programme, cannot guarantee that Hong Kong Government would be able to process all applications and issue passports in time.
- Would be irresponsible not to provide such a guarantee when it is within HMG's power to do so.
There is provision in the legislation for consideration of late applications. The detail of arrangements has yet to be decided.
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Nevertheless, know that some LegCo members have expressed concern about these arrangements.
Understand that a delegation from LegCo's Nationality Sub-Committee will visit London in the week of 7 June to raise
this and other nationality issues with Ministers. We look forward to hearing their views and will carefully consider with the Home Office what might be done to alleviate their concerns.
bno.row.NAT
SLM