CONFIDENTIAL
DSR 11C
(c)' while expressing gratitude for past offtake, urge
them to take more refugees from Hong Kong, and not
to reject applicants as being economic migrants
rather than refugees (see para 2(c) above).
FOR ALL
4.
If the question of HMG taking more refugees is raised
you should say that the UK has fulfilled its commitments
made at the 1979 Geneva Conference, and there is no
prospect of a further quota. UK has not been a popular
resettlement destination and resettlements have not
been successful. However, HMG will continue to accept
ship rescue and close family reunion cases, as well as
its obligations under the ODP.
5.
Separate instructions are being sent to Washington
in view of the key role of the US Government.
CONFIDENTIAL