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SCMP Reporter

I refer to the story headlined 'Mother's tears for sons at jail door' (South China Morning Post, June 27), regarding the couple jailed for living illegally in Hong Kong for 20 years.

Why on earth did the court jail these people? How does this serve the public interest, morally or financially? Further, it brings the legal process into disrepute if some measure of practicality cannot be applied.

The sole purpose of the jail sentence can only be seen as a desire to punish.

It will not deter future overstayers and is an embarrassment to all of us.

EDMUND HARRISS

Shouson Hill



Embarrassment