1
no less
These provisions
conditions, including pay and pensions, that are
favourable than before 1 July 1997.
will apply to members of HMOCS serving in Hong Kong as
well as other civil servants.
I agree with you on the need to maintain the morale of
HMOCS officers in Hong Kong, and I can assure you that
the Government will continue to keep their interests
closely in mind.
On nationality, I think that I dealt fully in my speech
with the amendment tabled by yourself and Enoch Powell.
The only point I would add is that the 3 million or SO
Hong Kong BDTCs who will be eligible for the new form of
nationality are of course already British nationals. The
Government's proposals will not involve anyone becoming a
British National (Overseas) who is not already a British
national.
in
I can assure you that the Government will give adequate
time for debate by Parliament of the draft Order
Council, setting out the new
new nationality status, and will
be prepared to incorporate changes if necessary in light
of the views expressed in Parliament.
You have subsequently tabled a written question
reiterating your query as to why the Government proposes
to provide a new form of British nationality for former
BDTCs in Hong Kong, rather than using the existing
British
Overseas citizen. I have set out our reasons in
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