Limited citizenship for 200,000

More than 200,000 people living in Hong Kong were granted a limited form of British citizenship last year in the run up to China taking control of the colony. The Hong Kong residents have obtained British Dependent Territories citizenship, which entitles them to visit the UK without a visa and offers them British consular protection in other countries.

An additional 5,511 were given full British citizenship last year. The huge influx - just 29,000 people from Hong Kong gained part citizenship in 1995 - reflects fears of Chinese repression.

In total, the number of people granted British citizenship, excluding those from Hong Kong, rose to 43,000 in 1996, a slight increase on the previous year.

Persons Granted British Citizenship, 1996, Home Office research directorate, 50 Queen Anne's Gate. London SW1H 9AT