E.R.
The case for retention
CONFIDENTIAL
14. The case for retention remains essentially that which led to its introduction i.e. that abolition would be regarded as a weakening of links with the Old Commonwealth. However, this concern was not shared at the time of the introduction of the provision by the Governments of Canada and New Zealand, and only to a limited extent by that of Australia, which alone has special provision for citizens of the UK and Colonies with an Australian-born grandparent. Moreover, the response to a Foreign and Commonwealth enquiry of posts in Ottawa, Canberra and Wellington (as well as Delhi and Kingston) in 1978, suggested that there would be little governmental or popular objection to abolition provided that adequate briefing about the decision was given, and with particular reference to New Zealand - that the provisions for young working holiday-makers was retained (a separate submission is being made about that provision).
15.
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It cannot, moreover, be argued that removal of the provision at this stage
constitutes a breach of faith. In introducing the provision the then Home Secretary, Mr Robert Carr, said: "The arrangements I have just outlined apply to substantial numbers of people in Australia, New Zealand and Canada, but in practice those wishing to come here for permanent settlement from those countries are, we believe, likely to be few. I intend in any case to keep the working of these Rules under the closest possible scrutiny and to make timely changes if these prove desirable". Later in the ensuing debate he said that, in contrast to patriality, "This relaxation I am announcing todav can be changed as easily as it has been introduced, or modified or removed. I said particularly that we wished to keep the results of all these changes under very close review, and I would not hesitate to introduce
changes if necessary."
Options for change
16. (i) Abolition.
The attractions of this course have been outlined,
although it would provoke opposition, it would probably do so on a lesser scale than in 1972, particularly since the UK's membership of the EEC is more fully established.
(ii) Abolition, with the proviso that Commonwealth work permit holders.
who would have qualified under present arrangements should be admitted for settlement, instead of remaining on conditions for 4 years. This would be little more than a paper concession, but is one that continues to be extended to UKF work permit holders, while not extending to EEC nationals. It would have some symbolic effect, while closing the door on free entry to the domestic labour market, and reducing the likelihood of people becoming dependent on public funds.
CONFIDENTIAL
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