- 2 -
VIETNAMESE REFUGEES
4. The Hong Kong Government have justly received international
praise for their compassionate handling of the Vietnamese refugee
problem. Her Majesty's Government are playing their part in
resettling these people, and 9,000 have already been resettled
in this country. [If pressed] It would be premature to comment
on the possibility of a further United Kingdom quota before
the matter has been thoroughly reviewed and the present quota
filled.
5. When a British ship rescues refugees at sea, we consider the
need to issue guarantees of resettlement to the countries where
they are landed on a case by case basis.
NATIONALITY BILL
6. My right honourable and noble Friend has had thorough
discussions with Hong Kong officials and Unofficials on the
Bill and has assured them of the United Kingdom's continued
commitment to the people of Hong Kong. [If pressed] Certain
amendments to the Bill have been put forward by the Government
which should go a long way in allaying Hong Kong's fears.
are in no way elitist. The provisions relating to Crown
Service do not depend on rank.
THE MACLENNAN AFFAIR
These
7. The circumstances of Inspector MacLennan's death are being
examined by an independent Commission of Inquiry. It would be
inappropriate for me to comment.
OVERSEAS STUDENTS' FEES
8. Her Majesty's Government are unable, in the United Kingdom's
present economic circumstances, to change their position on
the abolition of the subsidy on overseas students' fees.
Departments are, however, monitoring the consequences of this
decision.
/REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT