TNAG-1096-FCO40-1346-Policy-on-visas-and-entry-certificates-in-Hong-Kong-1981 — Page 8

BACKGROUND NOTE

SPRINGBOK TOUR OF NEW ZEALAND AND THE ATTITUDE OF THE NEW ZEALAND GOVERNMENT

A

1. The New Zealand Rugby Football Union (NZRFU) have invited a

South African rugby team (Springboks) to tour New Zealand during July/September 1981. Despite intense pressure the NZRFU have

remained adamant that the tour will take place. The New Zealand:

Government have repeatedly made clear their opposition to the tour

but have refused to withhold visas from the Springboks.

Hong Kong Visa Regulations

2. South African citizens do not require visas to transit Hong

Kong for a period of up to seven days.

Attitude of the Australian Government

3. The Australian Government have announced that they would not

grant transit facilities to the Springboks, ie they would not issue transit visas. This is in accordance with their interpre- tation of the Gleneagles Agreement (Appendix A). They have stated

their belief that the New Zealand Government has chosen a 'different

and unique' interpretation. But this is incorrect as we share the

same interpretation as the New Zealanders.