At the other end of the spectrum would be a policy of maximum robustness and rigour. The aim would be a resolute searching out and return of every evader. To this end, a number of measures involving identity cards described in paragraphs 32-34 would be introduced. The carriage of identity cards, or some other acceptable documents, at all times would be made obligatory, since, without such a requirement, identification and arrest become more difficult and less effective. In addition, the production of an identity card would be a condition of obtaining employment of any kind and of applying for any Government services (with the exception of emergency services). Inability to produce an identity card would in such circumstances mean not only refusal of assistance but also notification by the Government Department concerned to the enforcement agencies. In addition, the Police and Immigration Department would undertake widespread stop and search operations, sweeps through housing areas and places of work, road blocks, checks on passengers in trains, buses etc.
30
The consequences of these policies are self-evident. The result of the passive policy would probably be that the numbers returned to China would be quite small. This would not only mean greater numbers remaining (albeit below the surface) but, more important, once the way in which the policy was being implemented became known, the deterrent would be weakened. The very robust approach, on the other hand, would provide the maximum deterrent and net the greatest number of those who came. But is would also attract the maximum local and overseas criticism, be resented by the general public for the inconvenience and disruption it would cause and mean a major diversion of Police and Immigration staff from other essential responsibilities, and could not be maintained at full rigour for long.
31
The most appropriate course to follow seems to lie somewhere between the two extremes, tending towards the robust approach: no major increase in Police and Immigration Department's search activities but new measures involving the obligatory carriage and production of identity cards, which would make life in Hong Kong much more difficult, and hence less attractive, for potential evaders and bring to the surface those who still persisted in making their way here.
Identity Card Requirements
32
(a)
The measures related to identity cards would include:
the obligatory carrying of identity cards or an acceptable alternative (e. g. driving licence or travel documents) at all times by all those aged 18 and over required to be
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