REASONS FOR RETURNING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS
This policy, which had been in abeyance since 1967, was reinstated
in November 1974 because of the strain imposed on Hong Kong's resources
by the very large numbers of immigrants crossing from China into Hong
Kong in recent years.
THE DEFENCE COSTS AGREEMENT
As my right honourable Friend, the Minister of State for Defence,
informed the House on 19 December 1975, the agreement is in the interests
of both Her Majesty's Government and the Hong Kong Government. For the
United Kingdom it will provide a valuable contribution to the defence
budget and for Hong Kong the assurance of a continued British garri son
FORMATION OF HONG KONG MILITIA
As I informed my honourable Friend, the Member for Sheffield,
Heeley (Mr Hooley) in a written reply on 10 February, I am satisfied
that the present arrangements for the defence of Hong Kong are in the
best interests of the United Kingdom and Hong Kong. One battalion of
the Royal Hong Kong Regiment is a volunteer force of 600 officers and
men recruited and paid for entirely by Hong Kong.
CORRUPTION IN HONG KONG
Her Majesty's Government welcomes the progress being made by
the Independent Commission Against Corruption in the fight
against corruption.
(If pressed) We see
no need to consider alternative ways of tackling
the problem while the Independent Commission Against Corruption is proving
successful.
HONG KONG MASS TRANSIT PROJECT
British companies have tendered for a variety of different
contracts concerned with this project. The Hong Kong Mass Transit
Authority are currently examining the bids made.
/HONG KONG'S