TNAG-0332-FCO40-368-Visits-of-Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Commonwealth-Af-1972 — Page 29

CONFIDENTIAL

(c) VISAS HONG KONG PASSPORTS

Hon. Sir Albert RODRIGUES Hon. Sir Kenneth FUNG Hon. Sir Y.K. KAN

Secretary of State

There was discrimination against the holders of Hong Kong Passports by certain countries which require their holders to obtain entry visas whilst the holders of British Passports are qualified for visaless visits. This discrimination frustrates the

endeavour to build up a sense of belonging

to Hong Kong. There is no discrimination by Hong Kong against these same countries, particularly Japan and Germany, whose nationals may come to Hong Kong without visas for a visit of up to one month. Hong Kong is prepared to be responsible for the expenses of any Hong Kong Passport holders who need to be repatriated after having entered these countries. (Hon. Sir Y.K. KAN gave an example of a recent experience of his own where he was first refused permission to enter Germany when travelling there for important industrial talks. He was finally allowed to land for 24 hours only)

Will talk to the Japanese Government about this. Will also take up the question again with the Germans when the time is right; this will not be easy as they are greatly concerned about excess movements of labour inte

their country.

CONFIDENTIAL