05 MAR '93
16:25 HOME OFFICE SCU 051 231 1373
P.2
From: C J Kelly
B4 Division
India Buildings GTN 4126-309
4 March 1993
D Barnes
Private Office
CC
This approach
юну agreed to by Mr Wardle -8/3
Miss Hellmuth Mr Langdon
Mr Rawsthorne Mr Walmsley Mr Yates
Mr Ruffley Mr Thomas
HONG KONG
LEGCO DEBATE ON ETHNIC MINORITIES
We have been notified that LegCo is to hold a debate on the nationality problems facing Hong Kong ethnic minorities next Wednesday, 10 March. Guidance has been sought inter alia on how the Secretary for Security should respond. In view of Mr Wardle's interest in the position of the ethnic minorities in Hong Kong, as indicated at the recent meetings on the subject, this submission seeks his endorsement of our advice.
Report of LegCo's Nationality Subcommittee
2.
LegCo set up a Subcommittee on Nationality in November 1992. Mr Wardle met some of its members in meetings in January. The Subcommittee has now submitted a report (copied at annex A) and it has been agreed that the following motion should be moved in the Legislative Council on 10 March:
3.
"This Council supports the House Committee Report..., in particular the recommendation for the grant of full British nationality to non-Chinese ethnic minorities in Hong Kong, and urges the Hong Kong Government similarly to declare its support, both publicly and in representations to the British Government."
They
The Hong Kong Government wish to be able to report HMG's reaction following the last LegCo debate on 18 November. intend to say that they reported LegCo's concerns and that Mr