DRAFT
Home Secretary's Second Reading Speech: Outline
Introduction and Background
Unique situation: returning a territory to communist
UK's Stake, sovereignty. Hong Kong's success story. The achievement of Not Immigration Bill.
the 1984 Joint Declaration. Britain's duty to secure a
successful transition. The Bill forms part of a wider picture
democracy, Bill of Rights etc (FCO input).
The Problem
Rising emigration, especially of qualified people. The impact of Tiananmen Square. Sir Geoffrey Howe's statement. The
Foreign Affairs Committee report. Mr Hurd's statement in December. Those emigrating would stay if they could gain an assurance without having to settle abroad. Discussions with HKG have reinforced my view that such a measure is vital to
Hong Kong's continuing stability and prosperity.
The Bill
The aim to give beneficiaries the confidence to remain in Hong Kong in the run up to 1997 and beyond. The Bill is an enabling instrument, leaving the selection scheme itself to an need for flexibility to reflect Hong Kong's
Order-in-Council:
evolving needs. Eligibility. 1997 deadline. The 50,000
maximum: a balance between what is needed to make an impact on
emigration and confidence in Hong Kong and what could be
tolerated here if beneficiaries came to settle. Governor best
placed to choose those who are key to Hong Kong.
Need to include immediate family to make the assurance
effective. Hence inclusion of existing spouses and children,
and spouses acquired before 1997. To limit the commitment they will only receive British citizenship "by descent".
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.