TNAG-2629-FCO40-3820-Future-of-Hong-Kong-nationality-British-National-(Overseas)-1992 — Page 36

Public consultation

11

13

19.

Because the issue is sensitive, we consider

that public consultation would not be appropriate.

Public reaction

20.

Many people will, we think, consider the

proposals to be sensible. But we expect criticisms to

the effect that the arrangements infringe the Joint

Declaration (JD), are purely for administrative

convenience, and are a plot to raise revenue. None of

these things are true.

burdensome and expensive.

Indeed, the exercise is both

Publicity

21.

If Members approve the proposal and agree that we should seek an Order in Council, we will issue

a press statement explaining the decision. This wil1

emphasise the benefits of applying early and the international acceptance of BN(0) passports. A

spokesman will handle enquiries.

22.

We have been allocated $800,000 for a Class

II publicity campaign in 1992/93 and will seek similar

funding for each year of the exercise. Initially, this

will be an extension of the existing "in-house"