TNAG-2180-FCO40-3117-Hong-Kong-nationality-international-support-1990 — Page 175

CONFIDENTIAL

SECRETARY OF STATE'S WORKING LUNCH WITH NETHERLAND'S FOREIGN

MINISTER: 27 MARCH

References: A. The Hague Telno 25

B.

C.

The Hague Telno 107

Note from HKG on trade with the Netherlands

BACKGROUND

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

Mr

2. Mr Maude discussed the subject of Dutch assistance on

international support with Van den Broek on 21 March. The

Netherlands government are sympathetic to the problem but

categorically stated they could not issue passports to non-nationals

and advance residence permits would create an awkward precedent.

Van Den Broek did however say that they would look at this again

without commitment to see what could be done. A secondment scheme

might help to overcome their legal worries.

3=

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.

SAMABO

CONFIDENTIAL