BOURT DEST-V-S
34 IND EPFOOL
44 051 336 3386
2.02
We have rejected concurrent holding of passports hitherto
and have explained to Hong Kong that this was in accordance
with existing policy which was designed to:
1.
guard against abuse (too many passports in the system with the risk
risk of loss and theft
theft leading to the undermining of immigration controls);
2.
ensure that BN(0)s do not get into
into trouble with foreign posts by offering two passports;
3.
one.
avoid doing anything which might suggest to third countries that we have no confidence
confidence in the BN (0) passport.
In view of recent pressure Passport Agency and Immigration Service have been asked to review the question. Passport Agency believe that the policy remains valid, particularly that relating to the credibility of the BN (0) passport. Concurrent holding of passports would undermine the claim that the BN (0) passport is just as acceptable as the BDTC Immigration Service agree. They say that the large numbers involved would undoubtedly increase the potential for abuse on the part of criminal organisatioms, asylu seekers and those wishing to conceal evidence of a refusal of a visa or entry. They do say, however, that they should be better equipped to detect abuse following computerisation of the suspect index system in 1994.
There are also objections to post-dating, whereby while two passports are held, matters are so arranged that the BDTC passport expires and the BN(0) passport comes into effect on 30 June 1997. There would still be many more passports out in the community open to abuse and the reputation of the BN(0) passport would not be enhanced by our taking such a step. The major argument against post-dating, however, is that it would create enormous problems for the Consulate General ten years after the transfer of sovereignty when three million passports were lodged for renewal. We would
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