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decision, made clear that these formed part of package deal. Unfortunately, initial announcement made by Hong Kong Government covered only nationality description. Full details of other amendments only put to EXCO on 12 April. Immediate protest over endorsement on page 5 which had not, by an oversight, been entered by Hong Kong Government on passports issued by them. Unofficials felt this suggested holders were subject to special restrictions, or perhaps even criminals, and argued that such a stamp could well cause Hong Kongers difficulty in entering third countries.
4.
In the light of these representations, Secretary of State wrote to Home Secretary, recommending that immigration control endorsement be dispensed with and replaced, where appropriate by positive endorsement : 'Holder has right of abode in [Hong Kong].' Notes at back of passport (see para 2) would remain unchanged. Home Secretary agreed to this on understanding that passport issue would
now be closed.
5.
Public reaction in Hong Kong to concession very positive. Hong Kong Government even came under some criticism for omitting to insert immigration control endorsement. New endorsement may well make it easier for Hong Kongers to travel abroad and may assist in context of visa abolition agreements. Too early, however, to make
any real assessment of this.
Discretionary Registration
6.
Section 4(5) of BNA gives Home Secretary power, if he thinks fit in special circumstances of applicant's case, 'to grant British citizenship to any BDTC, British Overseas citizen, British subject or British protected person who has been a Crown Servant in a Dependent Territory or has given paid or unpaid service as a member of any body established by law in a Dependent Territory, members of which are appointed by or on behalf of the Crown'. Home Office Ministers have made clear that this discretionary power will be used
sparingly.
It has
This section included in BNA at Hong Kong's request. assumed great significance in Hong Kong at time of uncertainty over
7.
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