TNAG-2932-FCO40-4207-Future-of-Hong-Kong-nationality-British-National-(Overseas)-1993 — Page 55

CONFIDENTIAL

is a risk that we might generate controversy where none might otherwise exist by appearing over anxious. We do however need to counter any suspicion that we are ignoring LegCo's legitimate concerns and/or trying to rush through the legislation regardless. For this reason I suggest we

should make a virtue out of the likely delay in the introduction of the Order (Home Office officials seem in no hurry to introduce, and this controversy will only encourage them to delay), by making clear to LegCo that we will not introduce until after the visit of their delegation in June. This thought is reflected in the speaking note.

shani

J C Morris

CONFIDENTIAL