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about 30,000 succeeded in entering Hong Kong. In the first five
months of 1979 the situation grew steadily worse, reaching a peak in
when 14,000 were repatriated in a single month. In June, how-
ever, the Chinese at last responded to our repeated representations
and introduced much more effective controls on their side of the
border. As a result, the figures for those arrested fell dramatic-
ally, to only 20 a day. Since then the daily average has crept back
up to some 50 to 60. The total number of illegal immigrants
repatriated so far this year is in excess of 50,000. Although there
is evidence that a far higher proportion of illegal immigrants are
now being detected at the border, this still means that at least
50,000 immigrants have succeeded in entering Hong Kong illegally
already in 1979.
Measures Taken to Deal with the Problem
4.
Representations to the Chinese Government
Diplomatic representations have been made to the Chinese authori-
ties in London, Hong Kong and Peking and they have clearly taken some
steps both to limit the granting of exit permits and to curb the flow
of illegal immigrants. However the figures are still far from satis-
factory, and if there is no further improvement, we may need to make
further representations to the Chinese Government in the near future.
The visit of the Chinese Premier to London next month may provide a
suitable opportunity.
Measures in Hong Kong
5. At the end of May, when the influx of illegal immigrants appeared
to be getting beyond control, we agreed to the rapid reinforcement of
the garrison to enable border patrols to be intensified.
The success
of the security forces in Hong Kong in containing illegal immigration,
and the effectiveness of the new measures taken on the Chinese side,
now make it possible to withdraw the reinforcements.
The Governor,
while agreeing to the withdrawal, has warned that great care should be
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