TNAG-0983-FCO40-1202-Immigration-from-China-to-Hong-Kong-1980 — Page 64

PS/Mr Blaker

HICK 34111

ARRIVED IN REGISTRY NO. 51

19 SEP 1980

DESK OFFICER INDEX

PA

REGISTRY

Action Taken

7229 AW 23

HONG KONG: MP'S LETTER: ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION FROM CHINA

165A

Problem

1. Mr John Page MP (Conservative

-

Harrow West) has requested advice on

A

a constituent's letter concerning illegal immigration from China. THOR]

B

Recommendation

2. I recommend that Mr Blaker write to Mr Page on the lines of the

attached draft.

Background

3. Miss M E Hemmen wrote to Mr Page expressing concern about illegal

immigration from China and its effect on immigration into the UK.

Mr Brittan, Minister of State at the Home Office, has replied on the

latter point and has forwarded the letter to FCO for our comments on the

point concerning policing measures taken in Hong Kong against illegal

immigrants.

4. Miss Hemmen's belief that UK policemen have been sent to Hong Kong is

mistaken. The policing of the territory rests solely with the Royal

Hong Kong Police Force (which, admittedly, contains a large number of

expatriate officers).

5.

The Hong Kong garrison has been reinforced, but the Hong Kong Govern-

ment meet 75% of the costs assessed under the Defence Costs Agreement.

12 September 1980

1. Marria Мата

P Morrice

Hong Kong and General Department

PARB.

1/