TNAG-1125-FCO40-1400-British-Nationality-Act-1981-and-the-Dependent-Territories-1982 — Page 105

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In a disclaimer as described above might meet this.

11.

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But in any case in view of the continuing need to exercise immigration control we have not ratified the 1963 Protocol Number 4 to the Council of Europe Convention on Human Rights.

That Protocol guarantees the right of an individual to

enter the territory of the State of which he is a national.

12. There are clearly considerable difficulties in meeting

Hong Kong's request. However, the arguments for doing so,

in the context of relations with Hong Kong, are very strong.

As concern over the future has increased, aso have fears in Hong Kong about the effectiveness of HMG's commitment to the

1

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territory. While there have been a number of issues (the

Multifibre Arrangement, Overseas Student Fees) which have

aroused resentment against London

has produced the greatest disquiet.

the Nationality Act

British administration

is an important factor in maintaining confidence and the

Nationality description is a symbol of this. To meet the Hong

Kong request would greatly assist confidence. Moreover,

people in Hong Kong need reassurance that they will continue

to enjoy full protection and consular assistance when

travelling abroad.

13.

HMG would be on particularly weak ground in opposing

the change since Hong Kong were told last year that it was

not possible for legal reasons. To inform them now that, on

the one hand our legal advisers agreed that there was no

/objection

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