TNAG-2047-FCO40-2917-Visits-by-staff-of-the-Department-of-Trade-and-Industry-to-H-1990 — Page 105

VISIT OF MINISTER FOR TRADE TO HONG KONG, 24-26 SEPTEMBER

1990

VISIT OF BOTB CHAIRMAN TO HONG KONG, 29 SEPTEMBER 1990

DEFENSIVE POINTS

Nationality and Related Issues

We are aware of the concerns of British companies in Hong

Kong on the loss of key personnel through emigration. This

is why the Government introduced the British Nationality

(Hong Kong) Act, which received Royal Assent on 25 July this

year.

We believe that the extra points within the scheme available to employees of British companies will be

sufficient. It is envisaged that the differences in points

count between the better candidates are likely to be very

small. Where the choice is between otherwise equally

qualified candidates, the extra points for British Links are very likely to be decisive.

Realise that many companies in Hong Kong were

disappointed that the Approved Secondment Scheme (ASS) was

not included in the Act. Can assure you that the Government are still considering how the interest of companies can best

be protected.

The

Government are aware of the concerns of a number of

British expatriate businessmen with foreign wives. Government have given categorical assurances in Parliament which should remove any concerns.

FABAMY/1

CONFIDENTIAL

Page 105Page 106