TNAG-2181-FCO40-3118-Hong-Kong-nationality-international-support-1990 — Page 192

CONFIDENTIAL

VISIT BY PUS TO BAHRAIN 7-11 MAY 1990

BACKGROUND

REFERENCES: A.

B.

Explanatory note on the British Nationality Package

for Hong Kong.

Peking telno 675 - briefing on JLG XV.

1. We are continuing our efforts to maximise international support

for Hong Kong. Although Bahrain could not be expected to contribute

in ways similar to our own nationality package and other immigration

measures being considered by a number of other countries, they could

help by making it clear to the Chinese how important it is for

Hong Kong to remain stable and prosperous.

2. The Chinese have been suspicious of our motives over Hong Kong

especially anything which they allege challenges their sovereignty

over the territory. They claim that the nationality package

contravenes the Joint Declaration which we strongly refute.

Although there is little prospect that we shall be able to convince

the Chinese on this we are hopeful that in future discussions, they

will at least accept that the British Nationality (Hong Kong) Bill

has been introduced in good faith for the future stability and prosperity of the territory; it follows that it will be of immense

benefit to the PRC also.

FAYAOY

CONFIDENTIAL