Files on over 10,000 Mainlanders who have committed crimes here have been passed to authorities across the boundary, to stop them entering Hong Kong again.

Speaking on a radio talk show this morning, Assistant Director of Immigration Chiu Wai-kai said the Immigration Department is now studying the performance of an image identifying system which can scan for visitors who have criminal records in Hong Kong.

To tackle the problem of illegal workers, the department has asked building management companies to issue working passes to renovation staff.

The department has also stepped up enforcement action in blackspots where illegal workers are often found. It will further enhance co-operation with various departments and conduct more joint operations against illegal workers, Mr Chiu added.

Meanwhile, Secretary for Justice Elise Leung said the punishment for employers hiring illegal workers is decided by the court. If the Department of Justice is not satisfied with the sentence, it can lodge an appeal.