HC Deb 26 July 1979 vol 971 cc402-3W
43. Mr. Sever

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will list the current number of people awaiting admission into the United Kingdom from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh as dependants, children and males and females intending to marry persons settled in the United Kingdom, respectively.

Mr. Luce

The numbers of people whose applications for entry clearance were outstanding at the end of May are as follows:

Mr. Blaker

No.

Mr. Parry

asked the Lord Privy Seal if there are any plans to introduce a Hong Kong register of shipping; and if he has received any communication from the National Union of Seamen concerning any proposals.

Mr. Blaker

Hong Kong is a British port of registry. There are no plans at present to introduce a separate Hong Kong register and no communication from the National Union of Seamen concerning such a proposal has been received.

Mr. Parry

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he considers that the inability of the Hong Kong Government to issue post-1997 leases in the New Territories is causing a crisis in investors' confidence; and if Her Majesty's Government have any plans to remedy the situation.

Mr. Blaker

Investment decisions are influenced by many factors but it is clear that most investors take a positive view of the prospects in Hong Kong.

Mr. Parry

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will consider a political appointee as the next governor of Hong Kong.

Mr. Blaker

All qualified candidates will be considered.

Mr. Parry

asked the Lord Privy Seal when he will announce the name of the next governor of Hong Kong.

Mr. Blaker

An announcement on this subject will be made in good time.