MANACZ
CONFIDENTIAL
(b)
Declining value of HMOCS pensions, introduction of sterling
safeguards
Aware that Hong Kong dollar has declined against sterling
recently.
But not persuaded that, overall, present arrangements work to the disadvantage of Hong Kong pensioners. In longer term, link with US dollar makes for stability and certainty.
(If pressed) In other cases, this question has been settled
much closer to the time of constitutional change. It would be a
significant departure from previous practice to contemplate such
arrangements at this stage.
(c) Undertakings
Home Secretary has power to exercise discretion in respect of
individual applications for admission to Britain, and of certain
applications under nationality legislation. Discretion would be used on very limited basis for Hong Kong people exposed to special considerations and special factors. Individual applications under these provisions considered by Home Secretary on merits.
As you will appreciate, inappropriate to go further into details of these arrangements.
(a) Section 4(5) of British Nationality Act
Matter for Home Secretary's discretion. Has made clear that
grants of citizenship will be few and exceptional, under very exacting criteria.
CONFIDENTIAL
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