CONFIDENTIAL
NO CONSULAR PROTECTION FOR FORMER HONG KONG BDTCS IN THE SAR OR
OTHER PARTS OF CHINA?
147. It is standard international practice that one state cannot
provide consular protection for persons whom another state considers
to be its nationals when they are within the borders of that state.
After 1 July 1997, Hong Kong will be part of the People's Republic
of China.
C. IMMIGRATION IMPLICATIONS INTO UK
IMPLICATIONS FOR IMMIGRATION TO UK?
* 148. Only estimated 20,000 British citizens in Hong Kong. They have
the right of abode in UK. BDTCs have no right of abode in the UK,
and will not have it under the new status in 1997. Our efforts have
been directed to achieving conditions under which people will not
wish to leave Hong Kong. Believe agreement does that.
THE BASIS OF OUR IMMIGRATION CONTROL?
149. The Government is committed to a policy of strict immigration control operated firmly and fairly. Firm control is essential in
the maintenance of good community relations. Discretion can be
exercised in exceptional compassionate cases.
THE RIGHTS OF HONG KONG RESIDENTS TO COME TO THE UNITED KINGDOM? 150. Those Hong Kong residents who are subject to United Kingdom immigration control will normally only qualify to come here if they satisfy the requirements of the immigration rules.
SHOULD THE UNITED KINGDOM NOT ADOPT A MORE POSITIVE APPROACH TO
HONG KONG RESIDENTS?
151. There is existing provision in the rules for individuals to qualify as businessmen and persons of independent means. People are admitted if they have relevant skills or can make a valuable contribution to our society. Moreover in 1983 some 1050 Hong Kong
BDTCs were accepted for settlement.
CONFIDENTIAL
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