TNAG-2367-FCO40-3440-British-Dependent-Territories-(British-Overseas-Territories)-1991 — Page 134

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community in the UK). It seems to me that a defensible line to take must explain why the scheme is being ended for Hong Kong and not for St Helena, and particularly why now? As 1997 approaches, it will be easier to sell the idea that since it will shortly no longer be a dependant territory, it is right to wean Hong Kong off the quota, but I am not sure that this would look credible in

1991.

The Way Forward

6.

We could submit on the options before calling a meeting with the Home Office in order to establish a firm mandate to negotiate continuation of the quota but as the Home Office are likely to resist in either case, I suggest we simply go ahead and call a meeting with Miss Dews to propose the retention of the

scheme before submitting with advice to ministers. If you agree, I will arrange a date and time. (Incidentally, Jeremy Page told me that Miss Dews is going on maternity leave on 15 February, but tempting as it is I don't think we can stall until after she goes).

16 January 1991

(* or can we?)

Johari

J Morris

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