386 D073815 140M 5/74 Cr.P.C. Gp.839/3-
NOTHING TO BE WRITTEN IN THIS MARGIN
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(b) We could instead name a lower figure, ie 5,000,
which would be net of other commitments This
would have the same practicable effect as (a)
above, and might be more acceptable to public
opinion here. However, the present trend of
press and TV comment is likely to arouse much
sympathy, even for a higher figure.
**
(c) The same figures could be expressed as a monthly
quota of 400, thereby simplifying the problem of
offsetting refugees picked up by British vessels
against our basic quota which we could offer to
the UNHCR.
The Lord Privy Seal suggests that we should make
our declaration to UNHCR and Dr Waldheim before the
Prime Minister leaves for the Tokyo summit. We know
that President Carter wants to raise the subject
there and a prior declaration from the UK will put
Mrs Thatcher in a good position. This is important,
also if pressure is to be brought on Japan to do more.
I am copying this letter to John Chilcot (Home
Office), Tom Harris (DOT), Bill Beckett (Law Officer's
Department) and Martin Vile (Cabinet Office).