2
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i0.
Against this background, the Government has recently undertaken
The main aim has been to find a way
a thorough review of its policy.
to deter refugees leaving Vietnam for Hong Kong. He already know
from experience elsewhere that the most effective deterrent is
repatriation. In theory such a course is possible, but in practice
it is not feasible without the co-operation of the Vietnamese
authorities.
There is no early prospect of securing this.
11. Various other options have been considered and the UNHCR has
been consulted. Having regard to the importance of maintaining the
UNHCR's responsibility for the maintenance and eventual resettlement
of refugees, the Government has concluded that the only immediate
option is to set up closed camps in which to accommodate refuaces.
13.
In adopting this option, the Government is bringing Yong Kong
into line with the rest of the region. This move should make Hong
Kong less attractive for refugees. When the message gets back to
Vietnam, it should help to deter people from setting out. This option
has another advantage. Some refugees have interpreted our
hospitality as something which can be taken for granted, even abused.
We have experienced unruly behaviour and unlawful activities. This
cannot be tolerated. In order to increase the sanctions available
the Government will in future be prepared to put troublemakers in
closed camps as well. This should deter the unruly and will assist
in the better management of existing open refugee centres and prevent
recurrences of the type of disturbances recently seen in the Kai Tak
centre.
/para 13.