TNAG-2374-FCO40-3449-Hong-Kong-nationality-UK-passport-scheme-British-Nationalit-1991 — Page 86

As I recall, during the passage of the Bill there

were several estimates as to how many people might apply, ranging from a quarter of a million up to three quarters

of a million. But 50,000 is the figure specified in the

legislation. So,although your suggestion of granting all applicants a passport may seem attractive, it would not

be possible, without further primary legislation, to go

above the figure of 50,000.

Your other idea of granting the oldest 15,000

passports on compassionate grounds is also appealing in theory, but it would go against the principles of the

selection scheme, which gives an advantage to those

between the ages of 30 and 40.

It is always unfortunate having to disappoint

unsuccessful applicants, but there is evidence that there

has already been a considerable amount of self de-selection; because the points scheme is so transparent it appears that only those who worked out that they

had good chance of success have applied. It would be unfair on those who decided not to apply if we now changed the rules. And the selection scheme is in any

case so detailed and objective that the Governor's task

of picking out the unsuccessful candidates is really not

so dreadful.

We are confident that the nationality scheme has

already done its job in helping to restore confidence in

Hong Kong. I am grateful for your interest in this

subject.

DOUGLAS HURD