TNAG-1386-FCO40-1834-Future-of-Hong-Kong-nationality-and-citizenship-1985 — Page 153

FCS/85/307

LEADER OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS

Hong Kong: White Paper on the Nationality Provisions of the Hong

Kong Act 1985

1.

Douglas Hurd wrote to you on 19 November proposing arrangements for debates in the Commons and Lords on the draft Hog Kong Nationality Order in Council. I support his proposals.

2. Given the importance of the question of nationality in

Hong Kong and the fact that the Order arises from the Hong Kong Act, which I introduced in the Commons I can see considerable

advantage in a Foreign and Commonwealth Minister being available

to support the Home Office during the debates.

?

3. Tim Renton, as Minister with special responsibility for

Hong Kong, would be the most appropriate. He will however be

away from 9 - 16 December in the Middle East, but would be

available from 17 - 19 December. If the debate cannot be held

on one of these days we will try to make another Foreign

and Commonwealth Office Minister available.

4. Janet Young could similarly be available for the debate in

the House of Lords, when a date is set for that.

5. I am copying this minute to the recipients of the

Home Secretary's.

(GEOFFREY HOWE)

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

25 November 1985