CHANGE IN CITIZENSHIP

Chronicle (Levin), 22 October 1947, Page 5

CHANGE IN CITIZENSHIP

(N.Z.P.A.-

— Reuter,

Cornmon Sfatus Agreed On For Empire

Copyright)

Received Wednesday, 9.40 a.m. - LONDON, Oct. 21. The British and Dominion Governments have agreed on a new form of citizenship for all citizens .n British Commonwealth countries &o establish a' common national status throughout -the Empire, says Reuter. The British Bill mentioned in the King's speech will confer new Commonwealth status on British subjects in the British Isles and the eolonies which are not selfgoverning. Similar legislation is expected to be introduced soon in the other British Commonwealth Parliaments. The term British subject hence-1 forth will apply only to citizens in the United Kingdom. New Commonwealth citizenship will be substituted for the term British subject It is understood that New Zealand and Australia will acquire their own national status. All British Commonwealth citizens will be given a form of dual nationality, but this will be of a techniqal rather than a practical nature It is not known yet whether the new proposals will affect India and Pakistan.