TNAG-1896-FCO40-2690-Calls-on-Francis-Maude--Minister-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Co-1989 — Page 91

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Still vigorously pursuing our efforts to mobilise international

support for Hong Kong. Raised this question at Madrid European

Council and Paris Economic Summit. Prime Minister will also raise

Also taking every opportunity to raise this matter bilaterally with our partners.

at CHOGM.

Response so far quite encouraging. Paris Summit Declaration

acknowledged that international community has important role to play

in rebuilding confidence in Hong Kong. Canadian Prime Minister has

stated publicly that this is a problem with which no one country alone could cope.

Some countries have already taken specific steps. For example, French have issued a limited number of passports to Hong Kong employees of French firms. Singapore has also extended immigration

scheme to blue and white collared workers, while allowing successful

applicants to remain in Hong Kong until they choose to leave.

As you know we are working hard on scheme to give assurance of

right of abode in UK to people in both private and public sector on

basis of value of service to Hong Kong as well as connections with

UK.

But announcement unlikely to be made before your visit to Hong

Kong.

(If raised

Hong Kong should all be given right to come to UK in

first instance so that they can be sure of being able to leave Hong

Kong in event of catastrophe).

Hong Kong people have right to come to the UK as visitors for up

to 3 months.

Right of exit already guaranteed under Joint Declaration and

Article 31 of draft Basic Law which refers to "freedom of entry and

exit".

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