TNAG-1888-FCO40-2681-Visits-from-Hong-Kong-and-China-to-the-UK-1989 — Page 13

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M Kirk (SED, E206)

GIBRALTAR CHIEF MINISTER'S VISIT TO LONDON

1.

With reference to Gibraltar telno 313 below (para 4(iv), I enclose copies of our telnos 1855 and 1856 to Washington which gives some background on the problems facing Hong Kong through emigration of skilled people from the territory. Although we would be grateful for Gibraltar's assistance in helping to restore confidence, the suggestion that they are keen to attract to Gibraltar a limited number of people from Hong Kong could be construed as an attempt to strip Hong Kong of its intellectual assets at a time when confidence in Hong Kong is at a low ebb. It could also be seen as undermining UK's commitments under the Joint Declaration to maintain passports and stability in the territory.

Prošparit

2. Whatever the size of the numbers involved any immigration initiative by Gibraltar would be very badly received in Hong Kong, at this time when emigration is of such serious concern.

3.

The attached telegrams give some idea on what other countries are doing to encourage people to stay in Hong Kong and if Gibraltar could offer some incentive on similar lines which provides a safety net if the worst comes to the worst it would certainly be helpful.

MEADOW

11 October 1989

J K Hague

Hong Kong Department WH 303 270 2656

CODE 18-77

CONFIDENTIAL.

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