TNAG-1081-FCO40-1331-Implications-for-Hong-Kong-of-changes-in-the-British-nationa-1981 — Page 83

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Appendix 3

Matters of Importance which are outside the

scope of the British Nationality Bill

Visa Requirements for Third Countries

The division of CUKCS into 3 categories will cause third countries to focus on the distinction. Some of these countries will use it as an opportunity to impose visa or other restrictions on visits by CBDTs. Constitutionally we expect HMG to do its utmost to safeguard the freedom of travel by CBDTS. At his meeting with Sir S.Y. Chung and Mr. 0.V. Cheung in London on 2nd February 1981 Lord Carrington confirmed that he would continue to use his good offices on behalf of Hong Kong on this matter.

Entry Certificate to the UK

2.

Hong Kong CUKCS are able to secure multiple entry visas for 4-5 years to the USA. Multiple entry certificates for limited numbers of Hong Kong businessmen visiting the UK, though not a statutory requirement, are available for a period of 2 years only. UMELCO have felt stronly that UK's présent cautious attitude in the issue of multiple entry. certificates tends to influence other countries to discriminiate

against Hong Kong residents. UMELCO have also expressed concern that in the event of Portugal joining the EEC, residents of Macau, as resident of an overseas province of Portugal, might enjoy morable rights of entry to EEC countries, including the UK, than Hong Kong residents.

3.

In view of the close constitutional relationship of Hong Kong to the UK, it is considered reasonable that the UK should also issue multiple entry certificate for 4-5 years to Hong Kong people. Only a small number of persons will qualify and abuses will be easy to control. At his meeting with Sir S.Y. Chung and Mr. O.V. Cheung in London on 2nd February 1981, Lord Carrington undertook that the FCO would press the Home Office hard on this matter. The Home Secretary also undertook to look carefully at the proposal when he met Sir S.Y. Chung and Mr. 0.V. Cheung in London on 6th February 1981.

Form of Hong Kong Passport

We have asked that the future Hong Kong passport should be as similar to the UK passport as it is now. This would assist Hong Kong people when travelling abroad. FCO has not been specific on this point but hoped that it would be possible to keep the Hong Kong passport very similar to the present form.

Consular Protection

5.

UMELCO have asked for a re-statement of FCO's consular obligations towards Hong Kong. This has been given by FCO.

Security Branch

Government Secretariat

6 March 1981

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