CONFIDENTIAL
2
3.
This response is helpful although it does not necessarily mean that numbers of immigrants with one-way permits will be reduced. Both the Embassy in Peking and Hong Kong expressed the hope that such a reduction would take place, and that the
validity period for two-way permits should be reduced from 6
months to 1 month, as this would normally be sufficient for a family visit. The Chinese have, however, insisted that two-way permits should be valid for 3 months. There is not yet firm agreement on this point. Hong Kong are concerned that people
may be more reluctant to leave after a longer visit.
It may eventually be possible to secure Chinese agreement to shorter
visits in return for an increase in the numbers of visitors.
4.
It is too early to be sure whether the new arrangements have resulted in a decrease in the proportion of immigrants with
one-way visas.
Hong Kong are watching the figures closely.
Hong Kong and General Department
November 1982
CONFIDENTIAL