HKK 243
243/1
RECEIVED IN RESISTØY NO. 51 3 0 MAR 1973
DESK OFFICER
PA
REGISTRY Action Taken
38
Dear Evan:
INDEX
เว
ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF STATE
WASHINGTON,
D. C. 20520
BLAD
Minister:
悩ん
YN U Pray
13/ had breamy Roberts.
ALL kttaontམ{
LIND.
March 17
tecvel. 28 MAR 18..
Copy:
нкаў
Thank you for your letter of March 6, 1978 concerning Indochinese refugees.
I am pleased to know that the United Kingdom is con- tinuing to accept "boat refugees" who have been rescued by British shipping, and that you are currently considering the possibility of accepting into the UK some of the 400 "boat refugees" in Hong Kong who still need to be resettled elsewhere. This is encouraging indeed and your support in making such action possible is very much appreciated. Incidentally, I share your pleasure over the splendid cooperation in Hong Kong between the Hong Kong authorities, U.S. officials and the UNHCR. I had the opportunity to observe the Hong Kong operation during my recent brief visit to the Colony and agree that it is an excellent example of international teamwork.
Unfortunately, the problem of Indochinese refugees persists. Our information suggests that, apart from the large caseload in Thailand (approximately 100,000), the current rate of escape is about 3,000 per month "boat refugees" and an equal number overland.
Mar
1,500
We must all continue our efforts to resolve this tragic problem as fully and satisfactorily as possible and I wish to keep in touch with you in this regard. Many thanks again for your understanding and support, and best personal regards,
Sincerely,
373
it
Patricia M. Derian
Assistant Secretary for Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs
Mr. Evan Luard, M.P.,
Foreign and Commonwealth Office,
London SW1A 2AH.
#