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Ref : VR/MISC
CC AC/HQ's L/M file
AC/HQ's Note on Discussions
with Mr J Landau UNHCR Rep in UK on 12.8.82
Today, I met Mr Landau for lunch, just to maintain regular liaison. Very briefly I told him HKG's recent change of policy (for closed camps) to bring HK into line with other territories in the region and to deter future arrivals from Vietnam.
2.
We also compared notes about number of VRs in HK and it was clear that UNHCR figures were lower. I have since sent him a copy of the unclassified Talno 343 of 5.8.82 setting out HK-VR statistics and Mr Landau will look into the discrepancy with a view to reconciling the figures.
3.
In the course of the conversation, he also made the following points :
(a) UNHCR had himself in July (20th or thereabouts)
written to various countries to make a general statement about VR situation in the world and in particular to register a special pleading for a number of "priority" territories, amongst which HK featured, requiring assistance.
(b) In the second week of October, UNHCR would have
its annual Executivo Committee meeting and it would be useful for BK to air its concern, for the record if for no other reason.
(c) In response to my enquiry, he commented that
"technical meetings" are important in setting the scene and should not be under-estimated. In particular, they are useful in providing opportunities for building up or furthering rapport.
HCPLY/JE
Vcolyn
Helen CP Lai YU AC/HQ 12.8.82