TNAG-1189-FCO40-1491-Implications-for-Hong-Kong-of-changes-in-the-British-nationa-1982 — Page 117

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CONFIDENTIAL

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IN N3N0/1 (13)

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Chit Clerk Mr Adams

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Legal Adusio

1.

Nationality Bill

When I was in Hong Kong recently, and since I have returned, I have been pressed by Unofficial Members of both

the Executive and Legislative Councils (UMELCO) for an amendment to this Bill to make it absolutely clear that their nationality remains British. Indeed the Governor has sent me a suggested text (attached), which he thinks will meet their concerns.

2.

UMELCO can see no logical reason why such a clarification should not be made since it appears to have no immigration imp- lications. Any reluctance to introduce it will therefore only fuel their suspicions that they are somehow being sold down the river. In the Governor's judgment nothing short of an amendment to the Bill will do.

3.

I have considered very carefully both the practical and political arguments against introducing such an amendment at this stage. However, I am convinced that we must do what we can to try to meet UMELCO's request. During my own visit to Hong Kong I was left in no doubt as to the strength of feeling on this issue. With the persistent questioning of Britain's longer term attitude towards Hong Kong which one encounters, I fear that leaving this sore unattended might lead to the crisis in confidence which we so earnestly wish to avoid.

4.

I should be grateful, therefore, for your views on what might be done to meet Hong Kong's point, preferably by the introduction of an amendment to the Bill along/the lines suggested by the Governor.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

4 May 1981

CONFIDENTIAL

(CARRINGTON)