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During the discussion I had with you last night after the UMELCO meeting, I pointed out that the circular, which was reportedly circulated to the MPs before the debate in the House of Commons last week on the BNO passport issue, contained a highly misleading sentence to the effect that should the non-ethnic Chinese BDTCs be given the right of abode in the United Kingdom, "it may well also lead to claims for similar treatment from the 3 million other Hong Kong BDTCS". As you mentioned to me that you had not yet seen this circular, I am attaching a copy for your information.
I find it most disturbing that there seems to be a commonly held fear both in the British Government and in the Conservative Party that at some time during the transition period, the 3 million ethnic Chinese BDTCs will want to seek permanent abode in Britain, utilizing all means of transportation available, either by sea or by air- a mind-boggling vision indeed!
May I make the constructive suggestion that such type of statement, which may have been issued by the Conservative Party Central Office, only makes your role as Minister of State in the FCO responsible for Hong Kong Affairs even more difficult; not only that, it portrays the feelings and thinking of the ethnic Chinese BDTCs and the real situation in Hong Kong in a misleading and distorted light.
May I urge you as an influential member both in the British Government and in the Conservative Party to use your good offices to reduce the "invasion bogey" of the British Isles by 3 million Hong Kong ethnic Chinese BDTCs to its minimal and insignificant proportions. Anything which you can do in this respect will help maintain and strengthen the long-standing ties of friendship, goodwill and co-operation that exist between Hong Kong people in general and the people of Britain.
Speaking for myself, I was happy that you so kindly took the time to bring UMELCO members up-to-date on your visit to China and the discussions that took place between you and the Chinese leaders on Hong Kong's future. May I also say how much I value your efforts in your role as the Minister of State for the people of Hong Kong.
Sincerely. ласти внепрет
Hilton Cheong-Leen
Chairman
Encl.
c.c. His Excellency the Governor ) Sir Edward Youde, GCMG, MBE)
w/encl.
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