TNAG-0801-FCO40-1005-Immigration-from-China-to-Hong-Kong-1978 — Page 113

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COMPET

CONFIDENTIALT

THETIAL

BACKGROUND

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1. This is one of two questions tabled by Mr John Moore MP (Conservative Croydon Central) for answer on 6 April concerning RN involvement in prevention of illegal immigration into Hong Kong from mainland China. The first, concerning HMG's policy towards repatriation is addressed to the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary. A copy of the question and draft answer submitted to FCO Ministers is at Annex A.

2. Mr Moore has not tabled any previous Question on Hong Kong in the last three years. This Question is probably the result of a recent episode of the BBC tele- vision series "The Hong Kong Beat", which showed would-be illegal immigrants being picked up by a Hong Kong Marine Police vessel. The programme made clear that a Royal Navy vessel was in the vicinity engaged on the same task.

ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION INTO HONG KONG

A background note on illegal immigration into Hong Kong is attached at Annex B.

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THE HONG KONG SQUADRON

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The role of the British forces in Hong Kong is to assist the Hong Kong Government to maintain stability and security and sustain confidence in HMG's intention to maintain the British position in the Colony. The cost of providing these forces is shared between HMG and the Hong Kong Government. The naval con- tribution to the British forces consists of 5 patrol craft which form the Hong Kong Squadron under the command of the Captain-in-Charge Hong Kong.

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In accordance with the military role in Hong Kong, in addition to maintaining a naval presence generally, the patrol craft are tasked with, amongst other things, assisting the Hong Kong Marine Police, whose duties include the interception of foreigners attempting to enter Hong Kong illegally. In the majority of cases, they are picked up by the Hong Kong Marine Police, though on occasions the patrol craft also do this. 79 illegal immigrants were picked up by the patrol craft in 1977. Once arrested, the detainees are handed over to the Hong Kong Government which bears sole responsibility for the decision to repatriate.

COCONFIDENTTALIAL