TNAG-0515-FCO40-580-Restrictions-on-visits-of-nationals-from-Soviet-Bloc-to-Hong-1974 — Page 8

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

London S.W.1

30 October 1974

You talked to me about the queries you have received from Sir Y.K. Kan about the issue of visas by the Hong Kong Government to East European businessmen. You pointed out to me that the delays frequently experienced in issuing visas often severely hampered trade prospects and that Sir Y.K. Kan wished to approach the British Government to see how the issue of visas could be speeded up. I have spoken to the Secretary of State and have consulted the Departments concerned.

Decisions on the issue of visas for visitors to Hong Kong are in the hands of the Hong Kong Government, of which Sir Y.K. Kan is himself a member. This is not a matter which is decided in Whitehall, nor do we interfere with the Hong Kong Government's decisions. Applications are indeed passed through London, but are normally dealt with within ten, or at the worst fourteen, days. This is in line with what happens when East European nationals wish to visit this country. Thereafter the time needed to reach a decision depends on the Hong Kong Government.

I suggest therefore that Sir Y.K. Kan should, if he wishes, take this question up in the Hong Kong Executive Council after his return.

(T. McNally)

I. Mikardo, Esq., M.P.,

House of Commons,

S.W.1.

YE NE Donald Esq. Politeal Adviser, New Hanz

F

Mr Bullard, EESD

Reference......

16

CONFIDENTIAL

separate copies

Mr Rigney, M&VD

1.

I attach a copy of a draft reply to Mr Dorman's letter to me of 22 October. I would be very grateful for any comments, if possible by telephone.

29 October 1974

I. M. Jackoan for

AC Stuart

Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Dept.

Doce 10

Mr McNally

1. You sent me the draft of a letter to Mr Mikardo. I would suggest that we should amplify this with some of the facts in the minute which I sent you yesterday. I attach a possible redraft accordingly. If you also think that we should see Sir Y K Kan as suggested in my minute, no doubt you will let me know?

29 October 1974

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Mr Male

Sir D Watson

Mr Rigney, M&VD

DCSL

A C Stuart

Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Dept.

Please type-up

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