TNAG-1849-FCO40-2624-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-enquiry-1989 — Page 111

5.

to

That does not mean that it is impossible for BDTCs from Hong Kong to co

this country for settlement if they meet the requirements of the Immigration Rules. Nor would we ignore individual compassionate cases which

might require exceptional treatment. Generally, wives and children are

admitted on the same terms as the husband. The relevant provisions of the current immigration rules and of nationality legislation and the flexibility

with which they can be applied are described below. We shall, of course,

give further careful consideration to points put to us about the way our

existing policies affect people in Hong Kong and will take particular note of

any proposals in the Committee's forthcoming report. In doing 80 the

Government will bear in mind its strong belief in the security of Hong Kong's

future on the basis of the joint declaration and its general policy to continue to limit primary immigration to the United Kingdom. One important point to be made about that policy is that the provisions of the Immigration

Rules apply to all of those seeking to enter the country, whether they are

BDTCS, citizens of other Commonwealth countries or citizens of foreign

countries which are not members of the European Community. Any proposal that

new provisions should be applied only to people from Hong Kong would run

contrary to what has been established Government policy and would be criticised as unfair by supporters of other groups who might claim particular

links with the United Kingdom.

Admission under the Immigration Rules

Visitors

6. Although they are subject to immigration control BDTCs and BN(0)s from

Hong Kong do not require a visa or entry clearance to enter the UK as

visitors for up to 6 months.

Businessmen

1.

The Immigration

during their stay.

Rules Rules allow visitors to the UK to transact business

They also provide for the admission of people from anywhere in the world who want to establish themselves long-term in business

or in self-employment.

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