Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 2 September 2024 to Question 2170 on British National (Overseas): Pensions, whether he has had recent discussions with other banks on access to (a) pensions and (b) other financial assets in Hong Kong for people with British National (Overseas) visas.

We are aware that individuals who have chosen to take up the BN(O) visa route face difficulties in the early drawing down of their savings. This government is in regular contact with banks on a range of issues. Documentary requirements for withdrawing funds are a matter for the Hong Kong authorities, and officials continue to raise this issue directly with the Hong Kong Government to encourage a pragmatic solution.