Exchange Rate (as at mid-October 1980):
HK$12.045 = £1 HK$5.004 = US$1
Immigration-Hong Kong's Perennial Problem
Prepared by Government Secretariat Hong Kong Government
Printed by the Government Printer
On 23 October, 1980 the Hong Kong Legislative Council took what some have called the dramatic step of passing laws to enable more effective control of immigration from China into Hong Kong.
The new legislation provides for the repatriation of all immigrants entering Hong Kong from China illegally after 23 October, 1980. Illegal immigrants from China already in Hong Kong who had not until then registered and applied for an identity card were given a widely advertised and publicised period of 3 days to do so. Registration facilities were provided on a 24 hour basis during that period. Those entering Hong Kong illegally from China after 23 October will be arrested and returned to China, even if they have 'reached base', i.e. evaded capture, established contact with family or friends and found proper accommodation. Previously, 'reached base' immigrants would have been allowed to stay.
This legislation does not apply to those who entered Hong Kong legally from China.
Illegal immigrants will no longer be eligible for the issue of identity cards, and to help in their detection all persons resident in Hong Kong will have to carry proof of identity at all times. Everyone aged 15 or over, who should be registered under the existing legislation, will be required to carry either his identity card or one of a specified number of alternative documents proving his identity. A valid travel document e.g. a passport, is acceptable as proof of identity.
Under the new legislation employers will be debarred from employing anyone who cannot produce either an identity card or one of the specified alternative documents.
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