TNAG-1406-FCO40-1881-Future-of-Hong-Kong-passports-and-visas-1985 — Page 210

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The excuse in (i) is nonsense:

HMG and Mexico have normal relations and by virtue of that we have a Mexican Career Consulate here. The argument in (ii) is a sweeping one and unless there is evidence to demonstrate the extent of Hong Kong BDTCs overstaying in Mexico, the fears of the Mexicans are unfounded. Worse still, the connection of uncertainty over the future status of Hong Kong passports to the Sino-British Joint Declaration is most unhelpful. The Joint Declaration has resolved the uncertainties about Hong Kong's future and we must ensure that concerns similar to those of the Mexican Consulate in New York are not widespread.

4.

I should be grateful therefore if a formal representation could be made to the Mexican authorities about the unfair treatment of visa applications from Hong Kong BDTCS. Subject to your approval, I intend to ask the Political Adviser to raise the matter with the Mexican Consulate General here.

Yours sincerely, legina

(Mrs. Regina IP)

Security Branch

c.c. D of Imm

S (GD)

Commissioner, New York

R.M. Doherty, Esq., BE/Washington British Consulate General, New York Mr. Dennis Amy, OBE, MVD

/mt

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