TNAG-0660-FCO40-809-Implications-for-Hong-Kong-of-changes-in-British-nationality-1977 — Page 123

PREFACE

The Case for Change

There have been many changes in British society and in this country's role in the world since the British Nationality Act which provides the basis of our citizenship was passed in 1948. The law has been amended on numerous occasions so that it is in some respects complicated and obscure. Moreover, because Britain is no longer an Imperial power the all- embracing concept of nationality associated with this role, including the citizenship of the United Kingdom and Colonies, is no longer appropriate. It follows there is need now to examine how our nationality law can be simplified and brought up-to-date. The task of revision will require time for full

consideration of all the issues involved.

Shortly after taking office the Government, in accordance with the Labour Party Manifesto of February 1974, set up a group to examine what should be done. This discussion document is based largely on their work.

The Government do not intend to introduce early legislation on the subject. They recognise that there is room for differing views both on the principles and details of a new scheme, and they think it right to give ample time for study and discussion of the ideas in the document, which would affect everyone in this country and many people overseas. The Government have themselves reached no firm conclusions on many of these ideas. But where they are at present inclined towards a particular course the document says so.

In revising the law the aim must be to provide something that is both satisfactory and lasting. In earlier times the law of nationality evolved slowly and it is only comparatively recently that it has had a statutory basis. Since 1948 changes in the nature of the Commonwealth have placed a strain on the system then introduced, and the Government are anxious to avoid, so far as they can be foreseen, the likelihood of similar difficulties and grievances in the future.