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Of the 29 specific allegations investigated by the
group, eleven concerned ill-treatment or assault by camp officials.
Only one of these appeared to be genuine but action could not
be taken as the victim decided not to lodge a formal report.
The group has also looked into 16 other allegations
of ill-treatment or assault contained in the Prisons Department's
records and has noted that, in the four cases in which the
allegations were proved, disciplinary action had already been
taken against the staff concerned.
The group has confirmed that there was never any
question of the Government adopting a policy of deliberate
deprivation towards the refugees: on the contrary, there has
always been genuine concern at all levels for the refugees'
well-being.
The
group pays tribute to the many Government departments,
auxiliary services and voluntary agencies which have contributed
towards the care and maintenance of the refugees. In particular,
it commends the Prisons Department for their good work as camp
managers.
Secretariat Press Officer
Thursday, June 26, 1980.