CONFIDENTIAL
Clearly, matters which fall within the scope of the exchange of
were extensively discussed with the Chinese. The key
point is that the arrangement is a practical one which will allow former BDTCs who obtain British passports before 1 July 1997 to
travel on them after that date.
104. WILL NEW PASSPORTS STATE BRITISH NATIONAL STATUS?
The passports will naturally state the national status of the
holders.
105.
TITLE OF FORM OF BRITISH NATIONALITY?
Not yet decided.
106. FORMAT OF "NEW" BRITISH PASSPORTS
Details not yet decided.
107. TIMING OF LEGISLATION
Not yet decided.
108. ACQUISITION OF NEW STATUS ONLY BEFORE I JULY 1997?
This was point of principle for Chinese. But able to negotiate special arrangements for those born immediately before 1 July 1997 and those included in passports of parents before 1 July 1997.
109. LOSS OF TRANSMISSIBILITY?
Also point of principle for Chinese. HMG fought hard for it but was forced to conclude finally that it was not negotiable.
110.
PROCEDURE FOR ACQUIRING "NEW" FORM OF BRITISH NATIONALITY? Details will be announced later. Arrangements will be made for BDTC passports to be replaced before 1 July 1997 by passports pertaining
to new status.
111.
STATELESSNESS?
HMG will make provision in the relevant legislation for children born after 1997 to former BDTCs who are not Chinese nationals to acquire British nationality at birth if they would otherwise be
stateless.
CONFIDENTIAL
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.