David Messias Esq
- 2
29 July 1982
Similarly the assertion that we have been 'particularly anxious to get rid of the Falklands, Gibraltar and Hong Kong' is unsubstantiated. Taking Hong Kong's case, with which the article is particularly concerned, the Chinese, with whom we enjoy very good relations, have always taken the view that Hong Kong is a legacy of history to be solved when the time is ripe by peaceful negotiation. Both we and they wish to see its prosperity and stability maintained and, as British Ministers have stated publicly, Britain's commitment to Hong Kong and its people remains undiminished.
The article states that the British Nationality Act 1981 will take away rights from the residents of British Dependent Territories. But in fact the Act (which defines more clearly their citizenship status) introduces no change in their present immigration status under current regulations, nor in their eligibility for British passports or consular protection. (On a point of detail, by the way, nationality law is the province of the Home Office and not the Foreign and Commonwealth Office).
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There are also a number of factual inaccuracies in the article. Among these is the exaggeration of Hong Kong's population is 5.1 million, not 6 million. Another is the claim that 'Hong Kong probably earns $3 billion a year for Britain'. Apart from a contribution by Hong Kong towards the cost of maintaining the military garrison, Hong Kong's revenue from taxes and other levies is dispensed by the Hong Kong Government according to the Territory's own needs. If the figure is meant to relate to trade, British visible exports to Hong Kong in 1981 were about £600 million but the visible trade balance is actually in Hong Kong's favour (although this may be roughly offset by invisibles).
I am grateful for the interest and concern which you and your friend have shown and have no objection to your using the comments above on an unattributable basis.
bcc:
PS/PUS SAMD NTD
MVD
RJ F Hoare
Hong Kong and General Department
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