TNAG-1030-FCO40-1280-Proposed-visit-by-Humphrey-Atkins--Lord-Privy-Seal--to-Hong--1981 — Page 122

CONFIDENTIAL

MEETING WITH UMELCO: ESSENTIAL FACTS

MULTI-FIBRE ARRANGEMENT

1. (See Brief No 7).

NATIONALITY ACT

2.

UMELCO angry about final stages of Nationality Bill, which they

saw generally as attempt by UK to close door against them. Bill

important because British nationality is most obvious personal

identification with UK. They preferred no change at all from present

arrangements. Particularly upset by acceptance by HMG of Gibraltar

amendment and rejection of British National amendment stating that

British Citizens, British Dependent Territories' Citizens (BDTCs)

and British Overseas Citizens were British Nationals. HMG opposed

amendment because they considered it would have led to confusion.

3. Passing of Act has left some bruises and strained relations.

Time to try and heal wounds. Governor has been in isolated and

difficult position. Appreciation of his role to UMELCO could

help (See Brief No 5).

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OVERSEAS STUDENTS FEES

4.

Decision to charge overseas students full fees has been

resented in Hong Kong. Many students used to come here for

secondary and university education but numbers greatly reduced

since 1979. Hong Kong Government consider British connection

important enough to start loan scheme for students. These funds

were approved by Unofficials. Whole problem being considered by

Overseas Student Trust which is expected to report in 1982.

(See Brief No 6).

VIETNAMESE REFUGEES

5. UMELCO will want to know why UK quota of 10,000 cannot be

extended. Home Secretary and Secretary of State consider it is

politically impossible (See Brief No 8).

/IMMIGRATION

CONFIDENTIAL