The Honourable Howard YOUNG J.P.
楊孝華 太平紳士
9th August 1993
Mr K J Woodhouse, JP
Deputy Secretary for Security (1)
Security Branch
6/F, Main & East Wings
Central Government offices
Lower Albert Road
Hong Kong
Member of the Legislative Council, Hong Kong
香港立法議員
Dear Ken
Visa-free Privileges for British Passport Holders
It has been reported that nine countries of the European Community are grouping into a 'Common Visa Area' with effect 1st October whereas one instead of up to twelve seperate visas is required for entry. I understand that some of these countries (Belgium, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Greece, Italy and Spain) already allow visa-free entry to BDTC/BNO passports holders. It has also been rumoured that Spain, instead of maintaining its existing visa-free privilege to British passports holders, might fall in line with the rest of the CVA and now require a visa.
If the above materializes, this would be a detrimental step, in particular if followed by the other five countries. I hope that the Hong Kong Government will urge the UK Government to speak out on our behalf to prevent this from happening.
If for some reason, it is deemed too difficult to argue for maintaining the status quo for all British passport holders, then I would think at least the UK Government could take the line that BNO passports are a UK issued document, and therefore, should be granted visa-free privilege. I understand this is the argument the Mexican Government took when it decided to grant visa-free entry to BNO passports holders.
Yours sincerely
Award
Howard Young
Legislative Councillor
Legislative Council Building
8 Jackson Road. Central, Hong Kong Tel: 5264027
Legislative Councillor's Office
802 Swire House
9 Connaught Road Central. Hong Kong Ter 7475002 Fax: 310837~
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