XCS(80) 4
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duties and at certain peak periods of business in the Immigration Depart- ment would therefore lead to a reduction in the standard of service provided at Immigration Offices and control points, particularly during the early stages. This would mean longer waiting times to pass through Immigration control points and to obtain travel documents. The Department is under severest pressure during school holiday periods. In order to minimise inconvenience to the public, implementation would best be avoided at such a time, unless a crisis develops. In the immediate future, this applies to July and August.
Present Situation
20
Daily Average Arrests
1979
1980
January
62..
February
97
Jamiary February
122
156
March
213
April
279
March
April
151
191
May
465
May 1 - 29
265
1 Jan 29 May
217
-
1 Jan 29 May
176
Total Estimated Evaders
21
1 Jan
29 May
51,000
For whole year 110, 000
1 Jan 29 May For whole year
29,000
70,000
The development of our counter-measures including in particular the physical defences, the expansion of the Marine Police and the continuing improvement of tactics in the light of experience goes on and must help in keeping the numbers down. On the other hand, it seems that little more can be expected from the Chinese side (it is estimated that they already catch three out of every five who attempt to cross), while the urge to leave China is as compelling as ever and appears likely to remain so.
Advice Sought
22
Members will be asked to advise whether
(a) the Immigration (Amendment) (No 2) Bill 1980 at Annex B should be approved and held ready to be introduced into the Legislative Council on a date to be decided by Members;
SECRET
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