-43L.1 Prior warning against coming to Hong Kong 116. First, the Director points out that the seven-year requirement has been widely publicised on the Mainland,109 the intention being that: “... a stricter residence requirement for CSSA would send a clear message to potential migrants that they should plan carefully and ensure that they have sufficient means to support themselves in Hong Kong.”110 117. Making this point to the Welfare Panel, the Director stated: “..., it is not unreasonable to expect the sponsoring persons in Hong Kong to support their sponsored new arrivals, or the new arrivals who are economically active to support themselves with their own means in Hong Kong. As the proposed measures are to take effect from a future date, potential new arrivals will have an opportunity to make an informed decision on whether they would move to Hong Kong for settlement taking account of all relevant considerations.”111 118. This is a highly unattractive approach. It amounts to telling potential immigrants who have been granted OWPs: “If you are poor, stay home. You will be ineligible for CSSA for seven years. So don’t come to Hong Kong unless you can pay your own way or have someone who will support you.” As was pointed out by a member of the Welfare Panel, it has “the effect of deterring potential new arrivals to settle in Hong Kong” and is “at variance with the policy of family reunion.” 112 It runs counter to the avowed policies of respecting the rights of Mainland children with the right of abode; of promoting family unity; of promoting immigration of Mainland children to rejuvenate our ageing population when they are young and integrate more easily into our society. 119. I do not think this approach qualifies as a reasonable way to mitigate the hardship suffered by those caught by the seven-year residence requirement. 109 Ms Choy’s Affirmation, §§40-45. 110 FCR (2003-04)33, for discussion on 27 June 2003, §17. 111 LC Paper No CB(2)1401/03-03(03) for discussion 10 March 2003, §27. 112 Minutes Welfare Panel Meeting on 10 March 2003, LC Paper No CB(2)1738/02-03, §14.