TNAG-2082-FCO40-2963-Policy-on-visas-and-entry-certificates-in-Hong-Kong-1990 — Page 101

Hugh Rossi MP,

House of Commons, Westminster, London, W1.

30 Tetherdown,

London, N10 1NB

@

4 April, 1990

Dear Sir Hugh,

I am writing as one of your constituents to seek your help in respect of my wife's treatment by the Hong Kong immigration authorities.

My wife is a Polish citizen, permanently resident in the UK. She and her son were due to accompany me on a business trip to Hong Kong but have been refused entry visas. I enclose copies of relevant correspondence. I should add that my visit

is in connection with work on behalf of the Hong Kong government.

It is too late to attempt to get the decision changed. But I believe that some general issues are raised by the case. Firstly, is this proper treatment of a foreign national from a recently 'liberated' country? Secondly, is this proper treatment of the family of a British citizen? Thirdly, should not this policy. of the Hong Kong government be made public to avoid the inconvenience and loss of money resultant from this kind of refusal? I should emphasise that this policy was not apparently known by the Passport Office at Petty France who act on behalf of the Hong Kong government on these matters in this country. Nor was it volunteered in the original letter informing my wife of the non-approval.

Grants It was only brought to light when the University and Polytechnic Committee in Hong Kong took up the matter on our behalf.

The issues raised by the first question are being taken up by the Polish embassy in London. The other questions would seem to fall within the provinence of the British government and I would ask you to take up the matter on our behalf.

I can only add that my wife has travelled widely in the west and has never before been refused a visa. She is professionally qualified and currently works as a lecturer in adult education at Hillcroft College in Surrey. The decision makes no sense and is insulting to her and to me.

I trust that you will feel able to take up the matter for us.

Yours sincerely,

J.L. Bran

J.L.Brennan