TNAG-1192-FCO40-1494-Implications-for-Hong-Kong-of-changes-in-the-British-nationa-1982 — Page 6

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SECRET

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HMG's Public Line.

5.

No statement need be volunteered when the administrative change is made. There might not be much reaction since there would be no change in legislation. However, defensively we should take the following line:

a. The change applies to all Dependencies (not just

Hong Kong); it underlines our special commitment to them and recognises our international law obligation to protect BDTCs abroad.

b. There is no right of entry for BDTCS and this is

spelled out in the passport.

c. National status does not in itself confer a right

of abode.

12 November 1982

Дир

R D Clift

Hong Kong and General Department

SECRET