From: The Rt Hon Jack Ashley CH MP
14 March 1986
HOUSE OF COMMONS
LONDON SWIA OAA
493
Hun 34011
RECEIVEL·
"
REGISTRY
- 3 APR 1986
DESK OFFICER INDEX
REGISTRY
PA
Action Taken
Pen Prime Minister,
I am writing to ask if you will take steps to alleviate the deep and widespread anxiety, which is felt in Hong Kong, about the attitude of the British Government towards the issues of passports and nationality.
When I visited Hong Kong recently I found a unanimous conviction that the British nationals who hold British National (Overseas) passports should be allowed to visit Britain freely without the need for visas, and this right should be certified on the passports; that British nationals of
non-Chinese descent should be offered full British citizenship; and that the few remaining British nationals who fought for the defence of British territory should be offered full British citizenship.
On the first issue, about passports, Tim Renton's undertaking to help if a satisfactory formula can be found, has raised hopes. In the light of Britain's responsibility to the people of Hong Kong, I find it inconcievable on an issue of such importance to them that a formula cannot be found. I would appreciate it if you were able to give an assurance that such a formula is in sight, and will be included in the revised Order when it comes before Parliament.
On the second issue, of full British citizenship for British nationals of non-Chinese descent, the possiblity that they and their descendant's may become stateless is a grievous and unfair burden for them. They would be the unwitting victims of history and it would be a stain on Britain's reputation if this were to happen. It was clear
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