TNAG-1334-FCO40-1766-Future-of-Hong-Kong-legislation-1984 — Page 24

CONFIDENTIAL

December the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary explained that Parliament would expect to see provisions on nationality included in

the Bill: their omission could cast doubt on HMG's commitment to

implement the UK Memorandum associated with the Joint Declaration.

The Executive Council will be informed on 3 January that for these

reasons the nationality provisions will be retained in the Bill.

PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE

12. It will be for the Business Managers to decide on the handling

of the Bill. But precedents such as The Canada Act 1982 and The

European Assembly Elections Act 1978 suggest that since the Bill

deals with constitutional matters it will need to be taken at all

stages including the Committee stage on the floor of the House.

THE ROYAL PREROGAT I VE

12. The Bill affects the Royal Prerogative, and Royal Consent has

been granted.

RECOMMENDATION

14. The Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary recommends that the Bill should be approved for immediate introduction to the House of Commons subject to any minor or drafting amendments.

CONFIDENTIAL