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Three MOUS signed with Canada
Hong Kong and Canada today (Friday) announced that they have reached an understanding to accept the return of their residents who have been determined to be inadmissible to the other place and to help combat illegal immigration.
Commenting on three Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) which were signed today, a Government spokesman said: "We have been informed by the Canadian government that they consider these as an important milestone before they render a decision on whether to offer visa-free access to Canada for qualified residents of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region."
Detailing a uniform set of procedures and practices, two MOUS codify already existing practices under which the Immigration Department of Hong Kong will accept the return of any Hong Kong resident who has been determined to be inadmissible to Canada. In turn, Canada will provide the same courtesy to Hong Kong.
"Under the third MOU, Hong Kong and Canada will further their co-operation in investigating and prosecuting immigrant smugglers and dealers in fraudulent documents," the spokesman said.
"In addition, they will guard against, and thoroughly investigate any abuse of their respective passports and immigration documents, and exchange information on illegal migration and smuggling activities."
The MOUS come into effect immediately.
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Sino-British Land Commission to meet on Monday
The two sides of the Sino-British Land Commission have agreed that the Commission's thirty-third meeting will be held on November 25, 1996. The meeting will review the 1996/97 Land Disposal Programme and discuss the 1996/97 average cost of land production.
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