China's lawmakers have admitted that existing laws tackling the problem of foreigners illegally living and working in the mainland lacks teeth and should be addressed by the legislative body immediately.

China's parliament, the National People's Congress, has called for stricter implementation of the laws that punish foreigners who are caught committing the 'three illegals' -- illegally entering, staying, or working in China.

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Zhu Lieyu, NPC deputy, said that illegally staying and working in China should be treated as a crime and foreigners found guilty should be treated like any other ordinary criminal.

Stricter Punishment

"The 'three illegals' should be listed as a crime and should attract stricter punishment. Some of these foreigners have occasionally caused trouble in civil society,." Zhu said.

Zhu said he has introduced a bill detailing several measures that will tackle the problem and better manage the situation.

The deputy said one of the non-communist political parties in China has extended a helping hand in its campaign to rid Beijing of undesirable aliens. The political party has pushed for the supervision over visa agents and implement a faster process for repatriating illegal foreigners.

600,000 foreigners

In the latest census conducted in China in 2010, there were about 600,000 foreigners living and working in Beijing.

At present, China merely exacts a fine from the erring foreigner in the amount of 10,000 yuan at its maximum penalty or 15 days detention. Those caught illegally working are fined 20,000 yuan.

The latest move by the NPC seems to run counter to its earlier pronouncements that it will be easing measures to make foreigners qualify for permanent residence in China in a bid to attract overseas talent.

Observers have said this shows the government's commitment to attract only skilled and educated people who can contribute tot he society.

TagsNational People's Congress, illegal foreigners, existing laws, three illegals, Zhu Lieyu, china