Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

British Overseas Passport Holders in Hong Kong

29 January 2020 · 1 other contributor · 2,675 words

Opened by Stephen Hammond Con Wimbledon

Responding minister: Heather Wheeler

ImmigrationForeign Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Stephen Hammond raised concerns about british overseas passport holders in hong kong in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about the situation in Hong Kong affecting British National (Overseas) passport holders, with over 250,000 BNO passport holders potentially vulnerable to arrest by authorities.
  • Government asked to consider extending residency rights or exploring alternative immigration categories for BNO passport holders to offer protection and reassurance.
  • Minister stated that BNO status cannot be altered due to its role in the Sino-British Joint Declaration negotiations, but the UK will monitor the situation and support BNO holders' rights and freedoms.

Key requests to Government

I ask the Government to consider extending residency rights for BNO passport holders or exploring alternative immigration categories that could offer protection and reassurance. Specifically, I seek clarity on consular access policies for individuals holding BNO passports and any potential adjustments to address current vulnerabilities.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Stephen Hammond Con Wimbledon

I am concerned about the situation in Hong Kong following recent protests and the impact on British National (Overseas) passport holders. There are over 300,000 full British citizens in Hong Kong, with around 250,000 having BNO passports. These individuals face potential vulnerability due to their status and there is a fear they may become more susceptible to arrest by authorities. Furthermore, comparisons are drawn with the rights of citizens from other former colonies, raising concerns about fairness.

Other contributors (1)
  • Steve Double Con St Austell and Newquay

    Congratulates the hon. Friend on securing this debate, mentioning a petition signed by several hundred BNO passport holders from Hong Kong calling for review of their rights under the BNO scheme and consular support in the current situation.

Government Response

Heather Wheeler

Explained that BNO status was established as part of the delicate balance in negotiations leading to the Sino-British Joint Declaration and cannot be altered. Stated that the UK Government will continue to monitor the implementation of the declaration closely and support the rights and freedoms of BNO holders, while urging for a credible independent inquiry into recent events and meaningful political dialogue within Hong Kong.

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