CONFIDENTIAL
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Multi-Fibre Arrangement was supposed to be a temporary arrangement.
Nonetheless, they may be prepared to accept that an orderly marketing
arrangement will continue to be necessary. Her Majesty's Government
is committed publicly to an effective successor to the Multi-Fibre
Arrangement.
ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION
7. In 1979 and 1980 large numbers of Chinese entered Hong Kong
illegally from China seeking a higher standard of living. Until
October 1980, those who succeeded in evading the security forces
and reaching urban areas were allowed to stay (an estimated 70,000
in 1980). Hong Kong is already very densely populated and this
large influx had damaging effects on the Territory's economy and
social services.
8.
On 23 October 1980, the Governor announced, with Her Majesty's
Government approval, a new policy of repatriating all illegal
immigrants. It is now compulsory to carry an identity card, and
the employment of illegal immigrants, or of people without
adequate proof of identity, is an offence.
9.
Reaction to the new policy has been favourable in both Hong Kong
and the United Kingdom. The local authorities have been flexible
in cases of genuine humanitarian concern. A Taiwan-backed group.
the Wanderers' Association, visited London in January and claimed
that these people should be given asylum as refugees.
little press or Parliamentary interest in the visit.
VIETNAMESE REFUGEES IN HONG KONG
There was
10. There are still over 20,000 Vietnamese refugees in Hong Kong
who are awaiting resettlement.
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