TNAG-2633-FCO40-3824-Future-of-Hong-Kong-nationality-British-Nationality-(Hong-K-1992 — Page 63

DRAFT LETTER FROM THE PRIME MINISTER TO:

Ian Harris Esq

Bonas Machine Co Ltd

Dukesway

Team Valley Trading Estate

Gateshead

ME11 OLF

Thank you for your letter of 9 November.

I am keen to do all I can to help companies such as your own play your full part in Britain's economic recovery. I have therefore looked closely into the background to your problem. Applications for British Citizenship are assessed in accordance with the British Nationality (Hong Kong) Act 1990. Applicants acquire points under a rigorous system on the basis of their age, experience, education and other criteria set out in this Act. Those who fail to gain a place under the first phase of the scheme can apply again in the second phase which is tentatively scheduled to begin in 1994.

I

As far as your own employees are concerned, I am told that their applications were both properly considered under the criteria set out in the legislation. understand that the occupational group under which they applied was particularly competitive.