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(ii) for the purposes of paragraph 2(3) such a provision would not be "supplementary, transitional or consequential" in relation to the
nationality provisions of paragraph 2 (1) and (2). In addition
there are well founded objections to introducing immigration provisions into nationality legislation.
HMG is doing too little
It is considered unlikely that the will be any significant body of
opinion in favour of giving all who hold the new status the right of
abode in the UK. There may be some members, however, who will press
for this right to be accorded to those BDTCs who are not Chinese nationals. Ministers may wish to point out in reply that BDTCs who
are not Chinese nationals but who have made their home in Hong Kong
are able to retain their right
right of
of abode there (Joint Declaration,
Annex I, Section XIV). Ministers might also wish to emphasise that
all Hong Kong BDTCs, whatever their ethnic origin, will be able to acquire the new nationality status and use it for travel purposes.
Some members, while agreeing that it would be wrong to give Hong Kong BDTCs the right of abode in the UK, may argue that those who
want to leave Hong Kong should be able to come here for settlement
if they wish. Ministers will wish to take the line that it would be
wrong
to single out Hong Kong BDTCs as a group for such
for such favourable
The whole emphasis of the agreement has been towards
creating a secure future for Hong Kong and an environment in which
its people can continue to live with confidence. Those former BDTCs
who wish
wish to come here will therefore generally have to satisfy the requirements of the Immigration Rules.
treatment.
[If pressed, reference to those to whom undertakings have or will be given that they may come here for settlement].
ACQUISITION OF NEW STATUS AND BENEFITS TO BE ENJOYED
There are also likely to be some members who will
some members who will press for specific
statements to be made in the Bill about the procedures for the
acquisition of the new status and of the passports pertaining to it.
Ministers may wish to take the line that it would not be appropriate to include such details. in the Bill. Its function is to provide an
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No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.