13
B, C
B2
14
+
Mr Donald
HIK,
W243/2
RECEIVED IN RESTURY NO. 51
CONFIDENTIAL RECEIVED IN R*
NEW UK QUOTA FOR VIETNAMESE REFUGEES
1.
- 9 MAR 1981
DESK OLACER INDEX
No MS
Morin Ta
9001013
27/2
On 16 January I wrote to the Governor about the problem of a new UK quota for Vietnamese refugees in Hong Kong. I suggested that the Secretary of State approach his colleagues on this after his visit to Hong Kong at the end of March. This was in line with the Governor's original thinking. I also suggested that the Governor should send an assessment in February in preparation for the visit.
2.
The Governor has now telegraphed the Secretary of State (Hong Kong Telegrams Nos 172 and 173). Besides providing a survey of the position and prospects, he suggests that Lord Carrington
month for 1981 after the existing one is exhausted.
3.
There are good presentational arguments for the Secretary of State making such a statement during his visit. The Nationality problem has increased these. But the Secretary of State might have greater chance of success if he tackled his colleagues on returning from Hong Kong and after detailed discussions with the Governor. In the meantime, he could say in Hong Kong that the matter would be considered with sympathy etc. Therefore, unless strong arguments for an earlier decision emerge from the Prime Minsiter's visit to the US, I suggest that the balance may lie with a later approach.
4.
I shall submit the draft brief for the visit once we know the outcome of the Prime Minster's Washington visit. I have agreed this with Private Office who are content that advice on the Hong Kong telegrams under reference should await the Secretary of State's return from Washington. He has, however, seen them.
5.
In the meantime, you may wish to send a holding reply to the Governor on the lines of the attached draft telegram. SEAD agree.
24 February 1981
Dip
R D Clift
Hong Kong and General Department
се
Mr Burns, SEAD
Telegram sent
CONFIDENTIAL
18KG).
Al 277-2