TNAG-2179-FCO40-3116-Hong-Kong-nationality-international-support-1990 — Page 79

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MR MAUDE'S VISIT TO THE HAGUE AND TO BONN

HONG KONG: INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT

References:

(A)

Telno 025 from the Hague

(B)

BACKGROUND

Netherlands

Teleletter of 5 January from Bonn to HKD

(C) Telno 259 from Bonn

(D)

Note from HKG on trade with the Netherlands

and the FRG

They have

1. The Dutch Foreign Minister, Van den Broek, is aware of our

request. But Dutch reaction has so far been unhelpful. made clear that they could not alter their normal residence

requirements for citizenship.

some other form of assurance.

But they may be prepared to consider

The Embassy last discussed this

matter with the Dutch on 22 January.

2. There are seven wholly owned Dutch companies and four joint ventures currently operating in Hong Kong representing an investment of HK$682 billion and annual sales of HK$1.6 billion, employing 4,140 people. Dutch trade with Hong Kong is HK$12.5 billion per annum. The Liberals, traditionally the party of business in Holland are currently in Opposition. It may be that with some judicious lobbying they might put pressure on the government to do more than it has up to now. We shall seek the Embassy's advice.

Federal Republic of Germany

3. There is no prospect of the FRG amending their nationality legislation in order to grant passports to Hong Kong people without lengthy residential requirement. The Auswaertiges Amt and the Federal Interior Ministry are considering a possible scheme which would allow key personnel from German firms in Hong Kong to receive

PUPABV

covering CONFIDENTIAL