E.R.
efforts to cope with the present refugee crisis. Our active support for the Unite!
Nations High Commission for Refugees has been shown through close day-to-day
co-operation and through substantial contributions in terms not only of
resettlement places but also financial help. The Government's contribution
of £5m to UNHCR's general programmes is the third highest of any donor nation and
demonstrates the strength of our continuing commitment to this humanitarian
cause. Our own thanks are due to the UNHCR representative in London Mr Jean
Heidler and to their representatives in Hong Kong for the detailed help they
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have given us in the present refugee operation.
Conclusion
Mr Chairman,
A successful refugee operation calls for a response from all levels
of the world community. The most recent crisis in South East Asia required action by the international community, by national and local government, by international and national refugee organisations, by local communities and by individuals. At each level, the success of the response is affected by the
spirit in which it is undertaken. The right administrative machinery and sufficient money are essential, but, for success, the climate in which they operate must be one in which generosity and compassion are given their proper value. The invaluable contribution of BCAR and the other voluntary organisations is to tap the deep pool of generosity and compassion which still exists in this
country in ways which appeal directly to individuals in our community without
whose continuing support the task of resettling refugees would be so much more difficult. It is against this background that I once again pay tribute to the distinctive contribution of BCAR in the past year and I wish you every success in coping with the task facing you in 1980.
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