LORD GORONWY-ROBERTS'S MEETING WITH MR KEVIN SINCLAIR OF THE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST - 10 DECEMBER 1975
BRIEF NO. 5
ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION
Line to Take
1.
HMG is satisfied that the policy of refusing entry to illegal immigrants is being carried out by the Hong Kong authorities
in an humane manner.
2.
Also
This policy, in abeyance since 1967, was revived in November 1974 because of the strains imposed by the very large numbers of immigrants crossing from China into Hong Kong in recent years. relevant is the fact that most of those seeking illegally to enter Hong Kong are not refugees but young people wishing to improve their economic situation who often have an exaggerated impression of the opportunities open to them in the Colony.
3.
We have no reason to believe that illegal immigrants refused permission to enter Hong Kong and returned to China receive unduly harsh punishment from the Chinese authorities. We understand that China would normally regard illegal emigration as a civil misdemeanour, calling for measures of social and educational discipline rather than penal correctives.
Defensive Points
4.
Screening procedures
Each case is carefully examined on an individual basis and full account is taken of any special circumstances or genuine hardship.
5.
Legal immigrants
The Chinese have taken steps to reduce the number of
legal immigrants entering Hong Kong but the overall figures are still a matter for concern. [If pressed] The arrangements with the
/Chinese