Beijing, Hong Kong won’t recognise BN(O) passports in move seen as symbolic but also a signal of tougher action to come
- Announcements come after the British government set out details of application process for new BN(O) visas
- Hong Kong authorities inform airlines of travel document requirements for city’s residents
China’s first official move against Britain over the issue is widely seen as more symbolic than immediately impactful, as Hongkongers do not need BN(O) passports to travel in and out of the city or the country, but it could signal tougher action to come.
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“China will no longer recognise the BN(O) passport as a valid travel document or for identification, and we reserve the right to take further actions,” foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said at a regular briefing in the capital.
“In disregard of China’s solemn position and the fact that it has been 24 years since Hong Kong returned to the motherland, the British side blatantly violated its commitment, formulated the so-called ‘bespoke’ policy of abode and citizenship in the UK for BN(O)s, and continued to expand its scope of application.
“The UK’s move grossly violates China’s sovereignty, interferes in Hong Kong affairs and China’s internal affairs, and runs counter to international law and basic norms governing international relations.”
Zhao warned that Hongkongers would become “second-class citizens” in Britain, and noted that the BN(O) scheme was no longer the one that had been agreed upon by both sides.