CONFIDENTIAL
3
6.
Dr Wilson asked whether the increase was related to the recent statements by Mr LIAO Cheng-chih on overseas Chinese policy. Mr Chu said that there had been no change in the policy that overseas Chinese had freedom of movement and those in China could always go to visit their relatives overseas. He knew from reports in Indonesian newspapers that a few thousand. people were able to visit Indonesia from Hong Kong for short periods which they could subsequently apply to have extended.· Mr Orr said that our information was that very few people were given visas by the Indonesian Consulate-General in Hong Kong. .Dr Wilson added that there were of course a number of people who went illegally through forged documents which they had obtained in Hong Kong.
7.
Dr Wilson concluded by emphasising the importance of achieving an early reduction in the number coming to Hong Kong. He had raised the subject at an early stage because it would be best if a solution could be found before the problem grew larger and more difficult. Mr Chu said he hoped that a way could be found to solve the problem. China did not force people to leave but allowed them to do so in response to requests to visit relatives.
8.
The atmosphere at the meeting was friendly and co-operative. The conversation was conducted in Chinese throughout.
Political Adviser's Office, Government Secretariat,
9 May, 1978.
Distribution:
S for S D of I
C P
DS B
CB F
HS I
Far Eastern Department, FCO
Hong Kong & General Department, FCO
Research Department (Far East Section), FCO Chancery, Peking
Hong Kong Government Office, London
CONFIDENTIAL
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.