Overview

The Tibet (Reciprocal Access) Bill aims to improve access for UK nationals to Tibet by requiring the UK government to report annually on access restrictions compared to other Chinese regions. It also proposes denying entry to the UK for individuals substantially involved in restricting access to Tibet.

Description

This bill mandates the Secretary of State to produce annual reports comparing access to Tibetan areas with access to other parts of China for UK diplomats, journalists, and tourists. These reports will be presented to Parliament and the UN Special Committee on Decolonization. The bill also establishes a list of individuals significantly involved in formulating or executing policies restricting access to Tibetan areas. Individuals on this list will be denied entry to, or will have their existing permission to remain in, the UK revoked. The Secretary of State can waive this denial if deemed in the national interest, but must provide justification to Parliament. Finally, the bill requires the Secretary of State to consider the level of access granted to UK officials in Tibet when determining access for Chinese officials to the UK.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify any direct government spending figures. However, costs will be incurred in preparing and submitting the annual reports, maintaining the list of restricted individuals, and potentially in managing any legal challenges or diplomatic consequences.

Groups Affected

• UK Nationals: May experience improved or unchanged access to Tibet depending on the outcome of the bill's implementation.
• Chinese Officials: Those involved in restricting access to Tibet may be denied entry to the UK. Others may experience changes in access to the UK depending on reciprocal access granted to UK officials in Tibet.
• UK Government: Will incur costs associated with reporting and administration. May face diplomatic challenges.
• Parliamentary Committees: Will receive reports on access restrictions and waivers.
• UN Special Committee on Decolonization: Will receive reports on access to Tibetan areas.

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