TNAG-1387-FCO40-1835-Future-of-Hong-Kong-nationality-and-citizenship-1986 — Page 39

DEC 04 '85 19:42 GIS HK

Desmond Lee.

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their actual progress and timescale.

P.3

It is therefore suggested |

that an action plan should be provided at the earliest opportunity, and progress reports made to the public at regulaṛ intervals. Otherwise, the BN(0) will only be "the king's new dress", as some commentators put it, whose value only "wise men"

At the same time, community leaders (e.g. Members of this Council) and civil servants should be encouraged to acquire the BN(0) at the earliest stage and to try it out in international travel, so as to establish acceptability

САП

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Britain issues the BDTC passport and BN(0) passport. If she wants these to be accepted, she must take the lead in recognition. It is normal practice for Hong Kong BDTCs to apply

Although we for a Certificate of Entry for travel to Britain. have heard the eloquent argumentation of visitors from Britain that such a certificate is not strictly required (but desirable),

Non-British nationals of the European we are not convinced. Community (EEC) enjoy an absolute right to enter Britain, but they have never lived under British Administration, and many do not speak English. Hong Kong BDTCs are issued a nationality document by the British Administration, but no similar entitlement is granted. If Britain is willing to rectify this disparity, it is entirely within her authority to do so. is better than words. Show us what Britain is willing to do.

Action

English and Chinese are freely spoken in this Council, and interpreted into the other language simultaneously. This mixed use of language highlights the special character of Hong

The stability and prosperity of Kong as an international city.

our community depends on international business, and free movement and travel are essential. The Administration must ensure that freedom of travel will continue to be enjoyed by the people of Hong Kong. Concurrent possession of two documents may, after 1997, allow a Hong Kong person to enter a third country which has diplomatic relations with only one of the two signatory nations of the Joint Declaration.

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