TNAG-2727-FCO40-3933-Hong-Kong-political-parties-Association-for-Democracy-and-Pe-1993 — Page 6

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took this decision after close consultation with the Hong Kong

Government. The Executive Council of the Hong Kong Government

has twice endorsed the programme, most recently on 4 May. Provision for the programme would need to be made by Order in

Council.

The implementation of the programme will guarantee that all those British Dependent Territory Citizens who wish to apply will receive BNO passports before 1 July 1997. Both the Hong Kong Government and Her Majesty's Government consider that it

would be irresponsible not to take steps to provide such a

guarantee when it lies within our power to do so.

Nevertheless, we are conscious that some members of the Legislative Council continue to have have misgivings. We

understand that a delegation from the Legislative Council House

Committee will visit London in the week of 7 June to raise this

and other nationality issues with Ministers. We look forward

to hearing their views and will carefully consider with the Home Office what might be done to alleviate their concerns.

have no plans to introduce the Order in Council before that

visit.

We

ALASTAIR GOODLAD

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registration20.5/MIN/NJH