TNAG-1382-FCO40-1830-Future-of-Hong-Kong-nationality-and-citizenship-1985 — Page 11

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I appreciate, however, that whilst the first generation born after 30 June 1997

1997 to former

Hong Kong DTCs of non-Chinese race would thus be taken care of, there is concern about potential statelessness amongst subsequent generations. It is a long standing view of the British Government that it is not appropriate, as a general principle,

grant

British nationality indefinitely and without

the descendants of British

nationals. However, I would

I would not wish

not wish to give the impression that the concern expressed about this matter is not fully understood. So the problems of subsequent generations and potential

potential statelessness are being

being examined by the British Government in

restrictions

to

consultation with ourselves.

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In conclusion, Sir, let me make one further

point. The nationality provisions included in the Hong Kong

Bill are in the form of enabling provisions. Detailed provisions will be included in an Order-in-Council to be made at a later stage.

The Minister of State, Mr Richard Luce, has

indicated that a draft of this Order-in-Council will

be presented to Parliament within a year of the passage of the Hong Kong Bill and that it will be fully debated in Parliament before it becomes law.

I can assure honourable Members that the draft

Order-in-Council will be

be publicised in Hong Kong

it is introduced into Parliament, So that the

people of Hong Kong can see for themselves the detailed arrangements that will be made, and give their views on them if they wish.