SECRET
ESSENTIAL FACTS
(a) ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION
Extent of the Problem
1. At present, those who leave China without permission and are caught
before they reach urban areas in Hong Kong are returned to China.
Punishment in China remains relatively lenient.
Arrangements for
•
rep atriation were agreed at meetings between the Political Adviser and
the Guangdong Provincial Authorities in November 1974. Illegal immi-
grants who evade immediate capture on entry are at present allowed to
stay in Hong Kong.
2. In 1978, over 8,000 illegal immigrants repatriated. Figure rose
to 89,000 in 1979. The figures remain high, from 4,000 per month in
January to over 12,000 in August. Nearly 56,000 illegal immigrants
have been repatriated in the first. 8 months of this year. At least as
many are estimated to have entered Hong Kong.
3.
Hong Kong Garrison reinforced with additional battalion and naval
craft and helicopters. New illuminated primary border fence is being
constructed. Longer prison sentences are imposed on organisers of
illegal immigration in Hong Kong.
4.
•
In November 1979, Chairman Hua Guofeng assured the Prime Minister
that more effective measures would be taken by the Chinese. New laws
against illegal emigration by the Guangdong Provincial Authorities
probably responsible for a subsequent drop in numbers from 15,202 in
December 1979 to 4,054 in January 1980. But with a new rise in levels
Mr Blaker spoke to the Chinese Ambassador in June.. There has been no
improvement since.
Change in Policy
5.
Secretary of State has approved Governor's proposal to end present
policy of allowing those illegal immigrants who evade capture on entry
SECRET
/to
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.