TNAG-1406-FCO40-1881-Future-of-Hong-Kong-passports-and-visas-1985 — Page 41

Cs (except those connected with Gibraltar), BOCS,

British subjects without the right of abode and BPPs as well

as BN(O)s; also British citizens solely by connection with

the Channel Islands and Isle of Man. As the Home Secretary

now has responsibility for passport policy matters, the

decision on the format of such a 'common format look-alike'

passport rests of course with him, although Governors

of dependent territories have theoretical autonomy. There

have been consultations between the HO and the interested

FCO departments.

I confirm that the second paragraph of

Mr Hyde's letter accurately reflects the outcome of these

deliberations.

3.

ECD(I) agree.

Although the lead responsibility for the decision on

format lies with HO Ministers, FCO Ministers will wish to

be aware of the HO proposals and concur. I believe we should

make a parallel submission to our Ministers and a draft is

being prepared›

PASSPORTS FOR BN (0)S

4.

BN(0) is the new nationality status which is to be

created for BDTCs connected with Hong Kong who will

cease to be BDTCs on 1 July 1997 in accordance with

The

the British memorandum annexed to the agreement with the

Republic of China on the future of Hong Kong.

intention is that the new status shall be introduced from

1 July 1987, so that passports can continue to be issued

with the normal 10-year validity. (The validity of any

passports showing BDTC status issued to persons connected

with Hong Kong who will lose that status after 30 June 1997

will not extend beyond that date).

AUTHORITY FOR ISSUE

. 5. It would not be acceptable to the Chinese that

passports issued to BN(0)s, which will continue to be

valid after 30 June 1997, should be issued by the

Governor