TNAG-1888-FCO40-2681-Visits-from-Hong-Kong-and-China-to-the-UK-1989 — Page 124

CONFIDENTIAL

CALL ON MR MAUDE BY THE SENIOR MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

OF HONG KONG, DAME LYDIA DUNN : 22 AUGUST 1989

Points to make

A:

NATIONALITY

Unfortunately no way in which we could grant right of abode to

all 3.25 million Hong Kong British Dependent Territories Citizens.

Well aware of argument that this would be an insurance policy and

that few would ever come. But unlike any other such policy, all

potential beneficiaries could make a claim on the policy at any

time. Numbers could be very great.

Wrong to make commitments which no future Government could

possibly honour.

Working on a scheme to provide assurance of right of abode in UK

to people in private and public sectors, with particular regard to value of service to Hong Kong. Will be as generous as we can within the political and practical constraints.

Work is proceeding as rapidly as possible. Very conscious that

announcement is anxiously awaited in Hong Kong. But important that

scheme is both effective and practicable. Would not help Hong Kong if for sake of speed we were to rush decisions before we were ready

to take them.

B:

VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE

Well aware of pressures in Hong Kong. Concern about increasing numbers in camps. Evidence of growing tension and rising tide of

public antagonism.

BATAATI

CONFIDENTIAL