TNAG-2630-FCO40-3821-Future-of-Hong-Kong-nationality-British-National-(Overseas)-1992 — Page 35

JERMENT HOUSE HONG KONG.

TUE 17 NOV 92 09:54

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from new BDTC3. Therefore, we cannot guarantee to

process applications received on or after 1 June 1995.

We might be able to reduce the processing time. But

even if we do, we will not be able to cope if

significant numbers apply after mid-1996.

Way forward

BN (0) passports

9.

We could, of course, do nothing and hope that

the 'natural' rate of acceptance improves with the

approach of 1997. We could encourage such an

improvement with a publicity campaign().

But

given the prejudice against BN (0) passports and the

assumed ignorance of the limited lifespan of

HKBDTC ship

are not convinced that either of these

approaches would reduce the potential number of

applications to manageable proportions by 1996/97.

10.

Instead, we propose imposing cut-off dates

and a phased registration programme. This is the only

way we can ensure that most of the people eligible for

BN (0) status/passports can acquire them if they so

wish.

The cut-off dates should have the force of law.

Note (4):

We are already taking steps in that

direction ; see Annex B.