CONFIDENTIAL
SECRETARY OF STATE'S VISIT TO CHINA: 1-5 APRIL 1981
BRIEF NO 8(c): OTHER HONG KONG MATTERS
POINTS TO MAKE
CHINESE VISA OFFICE IN HONG KONG (defensive)
1.
Visa Office in Hong Kong sensible way of dealing with practical problem of issuing visas. We and Chinese
agree that would not amount to official Chinese representation.
Hong Kong have gone as far as possible to enable Visa Office
to carry out its functions in special circumstances of its
2.
being a consular or diplomatic mission.
3. Additional privileges sought by Chinese not possible without legislation in Hong Kong. Would cause Hong Kong Government difficulties, as already explained by FCO and Embassy.
4.. (If pressed)
If what Chinese want is a fully fledged
mission eg a Consulate General, would not exclude this possibility. But would be seen as a significant development in Hong Kong, and would need careful discussion.
5.
If requirement is simply an Office to issue visas, we have already offered everything necessary. Details should be discussed
by officials.
IMMIGRATION FROM CHINA INTO HONG KONG
6. Grateful for Chinese co-operation in reducing numbers of illegal immigrants. Hope problem will remain under control.
7. (If Chinese raise legal immigration) high.
Numbers still too
Suggest Hong Kong and Guangdong authorities should work together to bring it down.
SMUGGLING. BETWEEN CHINA AND HONG KONG (defensive)
8.
Hong Kong Government fully aware of problem. Governor has discussed personally with senior officials from Guangdong.
9.
Trade involved not illegal in Hong Kong. But Hong Kong Government doing everything possible to bring under control. Regulations tightened to make it more difficult for fishermen to engage in smuggling into China, and charges brought.
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