individuals are actually successful under the scheme, until they actually
have their British passport in their hands. That is going to be the thing
that gives real reassurance to the individuals who might otherwise go
elsewhere.
Chairman
Will
73. Do you think we will be able to match the speed which we hear,
by anecdotal reports admittedly, is practised by the French concerning
employees of French firms in Hong Kong, and also other nationalities?
we be able to be as speedy as they appear to have been in getting passports
into the hands of Hong Kong people?
(Mr Maude) The giving of French nationality can be done by
administrative act in a way that is not possible under virtually any other
system of nationality law, and so it is easier for the French Government to
issue passports very quickly. But the bulk of the administration of the
scheme will be done in Hong Kong by the Hong Kong Government, who clearly
have every incentive to carry it out as expeditiously and as efficiently as
possible, and I am sure they will do.
74.
Mr Shore
Both the Foreign Secretary and yourself have, I think,
referred to an international package of support for Hong Kong. We would
all like to know what you can tell us about the progress being made in
organising such international support?
(Mr Maude) It is gradual but encouraging. The German Government
recently confirmed that Germany had promised to offer residence status to
managerial staff and their families working for German companies in Hong
It is difficult to know what the numbers affected are to be and
Kong.
42
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.