TNAG-2367-FCO40-3440-British-Dependent-Territories-(British-Overseas-Territories)-1991 — Page 15

Thank you for your letter of 29 July about the decision to

phase out the Dependent Territories Work Permit Quota, and in particular the effects this will have in relation to St Helena.

The decision to abolish the scheme was taken after full and

prolonged consultation between the Departments involved i.e. the

FCO, the Home Office and the Department of Employment. The scheme

it stood was considered to be anomalous and inconsistent with

Government immigration policy. Nor was it the intention that the

scheme continue indefinitely.

as

We looked closely at the special needs of St Helena and at the

question of retaining part of the quota for St Helena only. However, this would be seen to be discriminating against other

Dependent Territories. We saw no justification for doing so and

therefore concluded that the whole scheme should be abolished.

We are however mindful that this action will be a

disappointment to St Helena. To soften the blow it was agreed that the scheme should be phased out over a period of 4 years rather than be abolished with immediate effect. We saw this as giving St Helena time to adapt.

I can also assure you that we are presently working together with the Home Office and Department of Employment in examining alternative schemes which may be of benefit to nationals of

Dependent Territories including St Helena, who wish to come to the United Kingdom.

WB1AAC

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