TNAG-1082-FCO40-1332-Implications-for-Hong-Kong-of-changes-in-the-British-nationa-1981 — Page 144

2.

The Rt. Hon. William Whitelaw, Home Secretary

attitude towards our refugees problem, and above all the unpreferential treatment of Hong Kong students to that of all other foreign countries students in the sharp increase of tuition fees which has caused great difficulties in the higher education opportunities of our younger generation, especially in our sovereign state, all these have thrown shadows over the all along close relationship between the U.K. and Hong Kong and the future prospects of the colony. The introduction of the British Nationality Bill has further reaffirmed the worries and caused extremely widespread anxiety amongst businessmen and our citizens alike.

The Bill is seen to further weaken the status of the Hong Kong citizen, whether warranted or not, especially by our younger generation. It has brought into question the continued confidence in the U.K. in its relationship with Hong Kong and its future. It is perhaps unfortunate that this turn of events has caused our people, especially the young to suspect the motives of the Bill and, at this stage, have turned their thoughts to the possibility of seeking the security of other nationalities and the base for personal development elsewhere. This is particularly worrisome for businessmen as the continued economic and social prosperity of Hong Kong will depend on our younger generation in the years to come. The possible drain of talents and investment, present and future, would be a most unwelcome eventuality should it

Х

occur.

There is real concern also that third countries will seek to render it more difficult for our citizens, especially businessmen, to travel and trade freely. We propose that vigorous efforts should be exerted by the British Government to prevent moves in this direction which, if not achieved, will reinforce the general growing belief that our status will be compromised. Reassurance and action is thus vital in this connection.

We therefore fully agree with the proposals set out by the Hong Kong Association in that these will effectively allay any further weakening of general confidence in Hong Kong's future. It is also our citizen's expectation that the British Government will maintain her responsibilities towards Hong Kong and strengthen her support of Hong Kong in inter- national matters. We sincerely hope that our views will be given serious consideration by your good offices and have no doubt that all efforts will be made to ensure that the relationship between the U.K. and Hong Kong will continue to be as close as it has been over

many years.

Yours faithfully,

H.C. Tang Chairman

Encl.