TNAG-1627-FCO40-2241-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-Macau-1987 — Page 36

CONFIDENTIAL

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Immigration Control from Foreign States and Regions (Section IX of Annex 1)

Over the years a series of Commissioners of Police have told me that they do not have a control point at the border, because Macau, unlike Hong Kong, was Chinese territory under Portuguese Administration. So much for that myth. Macau's control over illegal immigrants from China is likely to become much more effective than in the past.

The difficulties facing Macau in setting up an constitutional set-up, under the Portuguese rule of law, seem to be insuperable - at least within 12 years. This is such a wide subject that it requires another letter.

It is not possible to say that there is no corruption in Macau (your GSIASD of 25 November 1985). However, with most key posts in the hands of metropolitan Portuguese who speak no Chinese staying on contracts lasting an average 22 years, the chances to establish local contacts are less than good.

We continue to cooperate with the Macau authorities on forged passports and dubious claims to Portuguese citizenship (see specimens of typical correspondence).

I will write again on the impact of the Sino- Portuguese Declaration on the years ahead as soon as time permits.

сс

Chancery Lisbon Chancery Peking

Your ever Steven

KUO Ket-chen

for Director of Immigration

KKC/ny

CONFIDENTIAL