Acting Secretary for Security John Lee said the Government does not see any justification or need to change the existing One-way Permits scheme or Mainland authorities' approval arrangements, nor to add screening criteria.

In response to a question in the Legislative Council today, Mr Lee said Mainland residents who meet Mainland authorities' eligibility criteria can apply to come to and settle in Hong Kong.

“The policy objective of the One-way Permits scheme is to allow Mainland residents to come to Hong Kong for family reunion in an orderly manner through approval by the Mainland authorities in accordance with the laws and regulations of the Mainland.”

From July 1, 1997, to December 31, 2012, 762,044 Mainland residents came to settle in Hong Kong under the scheme. About half reunited with their spouses and half reunited with their parents, while a small number reunited with their children.

The Immigration and Home Affairs Departments collect information on new arrivals at Lo Wu control point and Registration of Persons Offices, compiling the data into a quarterly report for government departments and non-government organisations. 

This information is used by the Census & Statistics Department when making population estimates, which helps the Government make long-term plans for education, housing, transport, social services, and medical services, he said.

Mr Lee added the Government will listen to public viewpoints and consider the overall interest of the community, while continuing to exchange views on the One-way Permits policy with Mainland authorities, and will provide feedback as appropriate.