TNAG-1080-FCO40-1330-Implications-for-Hong-Kong-of-changes-in-the-British-nationa-1981 — Page 92

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c) Such an assurance must obviously be in general not

specific terms; otherwise there could be difficulties

in the United Kingdom and in Hong Kong where we might

risk causing a crisis of confidence.

d) There is plenty of time to think the matter over. There

will be 2 months consideration in Committee in the Lower

House and more time in the Lords.

Argument

9. The Governor's concerns are real. Feeling in Hong Kong on

this issue is very strong. The Nationality Bill is seen as a key.

It is important to be as forthcoming as possible with the Unofficials.

10. On the other hand, amendments to the Bill to meet Hong Kong's

point would be very difficult. Soundings in the Home Office indicate

strong resistance because the category of government employees is

potentially a very large one and it would be difficult to restrict

It would be wrong to raise hopes unduly.

its application.

11. By some means it will be necessary to provide reassurance to

senior officials and Unofficials in Hong Kong. The Governor has

received a petition from the former. Such an assurance, if not

provided in the Bill, might be analogous to that given to the

Falkland Islanders, ie that the position of people in Hong Kong in

public service will be considered sympathetically in an emergency.

It would in any case be necessary to discuss this with the Home

Secretary. I suggest that Lord Carrington should undertake to do

this.

/12.

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