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CONFILM FLAT,
have now been on board for over two weeks end the situation on the
ROACHBANK is clearly deteriorating. We understand from the FCO that there are some reports of possible movement by the Taiwanese but the Bank Line, who know about this information, are deeply sceptical that the Taiwanese will in the event agree to allow the refugees to land. The Secretary of State believes that a decision by HMG on this issue is now urgent.
I am attaching a draft of a possible letter for the Prime Minister
to send to Lord Inverforth. This has been cleared with the FCO but you will appreciate that this will not satisfy the Bank Line and we can expect growing public pressure from the shipping industry until HG agrees to take responsibility for settling the refugees concerned.
I am sending copies of this letter and attachment to Stephen Wall (FCO), John Chilcott (Home Office) and Martin Vile (Cabinet Office).
Yous Siveady,
Tom Having
TG HARRIS
Private Secretary