RESTRICTED
XCRI(92)13
Chung Feis, they are able to carry motor cars. Chung Feis are made here and are in common use for genuine commercial purposes, which makes it very difficult to ban them. Engines used to power both types of vessel are imported into Hong Kong and transported illegally to the smuggling bases in China. Both sizes of speedboat can travel at speeds in excess of 70 knots.
6
Tackling the problem at sea is fraught with difficulty. As noted, the smugglers' boats are very fast. Even if they can be intercepted, they cannot be made to stop. Giving additional resources to the Marine Police would make little difference. Physical means such as the erection of booms across the mouth of Tolo Harbour and technical means such as the electronic disabling of engines are being experimented with but success is unlikely to be achieved soon. Bringing firepower to bear might stimulate a matching response by the smugglers and people on both sides would be killed. It is not considered that the nature of the offence justifies firing on smugglers as a general policy.
7
elements
(a)
A more promising strategy comprises the following two
getting the Chinese to take more sustained and effective action against the speedboat bases and distribution network in Guangdong; and
(b) improving the effectiveness of enforcement operations
in Hong Kong against targets on land.
The measures we are now introducing are in furtherance of (b).
Left-Hand-Drive Vehicles
8
We intend to introduce an import and export licensing regime for left-hand-drive (lhd) vehicles, the effect of which will be to reduce the supply of a popular item for smuggling. We hope it will also encourage the Chinese authorities to take further positive action.
Outboard Engines
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We also intend to introduce an import and export licensing system for outboard engines exceeding 150 hp (including propellers and spare parts). The effect of this will be to force the smugglers in time to -
Executive Council
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.