on which public attention is likely to centre. There may be criticism. about the morality of returning an illegal immigrant to China after detaining him for the prosecution of his aider and abetter. Such criticism will be countered by emphasising that the illegal immigrant is here illegally, and the prosecution of his aider and abetter is necessary as a deterrent at a time when Hong Kong is faced with an extremely high level of illegal immigration from China. The point will also be made that the facts of each case are considered individually in coming to a decision whether a person is to be repatriated. In view of public concern at the social and economic pressures which will arise from the increased level of illegal immigration from China and the influx of Vietnamese refugees, it is considered that the proposed amendments aimed at countering illegal immigration will be generally welcomed.
Advice Sought
12
Honourable Members will be asked to advise whether the Immigration (Amendment) (No 2) Bill 1979, as annexed, should be introduced into the Legislative Council.
(The Secretary for Security (Mr L. M. DAVIES), the Director of Immigration (Mr R. G. B. BRIDGE) and Crown Counsel (Mr A. B. S. PIERCE) will attend before the Council for the discussion of this item).
31st May 1979 (CR 42/2091/70 VI)