TNAG-0981-FCO40-1200-Immigration-from-China-to-Hong-Kong-1980 — Page 78

Mr Morrice

273

Mr Williams 7.3

VISIT TO HONG KONG:

CONFIDENTIAL

IMMIGRATION

ม

Reference...

HKK 34111

RECEIVED IN REGISTRY NO. 51

10 MAR 1980

DESK OFFICER INDEX

REGISTRY

PA

Ac

JA

541

CODE 18-77

14.3

1. I discussed this with Mr Davies (Secretary for Security) and Mr Bridges (Director of Immigration ).

Illegal Immigrants

2.

Officials are still considering possible modifications to the rule whereby illegals "reaching base" are able to register and remain in Hong Kong. There are many problems about changing the present policy, in particular the opportunities for corruption and intimidation, the difficulties of implementation without draconian measures and possible public opposition especially from relatives of illegal immigrants. It if is decided to act the most probable outcome would be a "moderate" solution whereby, illegals would be refused identity cards, the carrying of cards would become compulsory and the production of identity cards necessary, among other things, for obtaining a job. The proponents of this scheme argue that the risk of unemployment will be a major deterrent and that the scheme will have the advantage of not involving large scale police action against illegal immigrants; the measures would rely on cases coming to notice through normal administrative procedures. Opponents argue on the one hand that the measures, in particular the requirement to carry identity cards, would still arouse considerable opposition and on the other hand that they feel enforcement would not have a significant effect on illegal immigration. The argument is still continuing. If agreement is reached, proposals will be put to EXCO.

Legal immigration

3.

It is generally agreed that no action can be taken against legal overstayers unless and until measures on the lines of the above are taken against illegals. There is still no inclination to adopt a unilateral quota for legals coming across the border.

Macao

4.

Meanwhile Hong Kong are taking action to tighten up on illegals coming to Hong Kong through Macao and successful arrangements are being made with the Macao authorities to send them back.

Action with the Chinese

5.

It is agreed that we should continue to remind the Chinese of our concern when suitable opportunities arise. (Mr Pym's visit will be one of these). Hong Kong do not consider that at this stage we should make any other demarches, eg by a Minister calling in the Chinese Ambassador. They will however watch the figures carefully and let us know if they want such action. For the moment this seems sensible.

6 March 1980

cc Mr Murray

Din

R D Clift

Hong Kong and General Department

CONFIDENTIAL