BRITISH PRESENCE IN HONG KONG
55. As we stated earlier, the United Kingdom continues
to have important political, consular and economic interests in
Hong Kong. We were impressed at the work of the British Consulate-General
in developing these across the whole range of activities. We were
particularly impressed with the work of the section dealing with
the issue of passports under the British Nationality (Hong Kong)
Act 1997 to those who would otherwise be stateless. We understand
that good progress is being made on this, although some problems
remain, notably with some Hong Kong residents of ethnic Pakistani
origin.
56. We also had the opportunity to visit the British
Council operation in Hong Kong, which is an imposing presence
adjacent to the Consulate-General. It is one of the most impressive
British Council operations we have seen and plays a pivotal role
in enhancing Britain's image in Hong Kong, both through building
ties and its extensive English-language teaching and library services.
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