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a basis as possible; and a recognition that resettlement could not resolve the problem alone, but could only be pursued in tandem with other durable solutions. The other main "durable solution" in the mind of participants and this seems to have been the main significance of the discussion for UNHCR was apparently voluntary repatriation. Anvar stressed the (news?) UNHCR view that voluntary return was an option that particularly for Vietnam - must be kept open, by encouraging return- in individual compassionate cases (e.g. minors) and by ensuring that those in camps are fully conscious that (in theory at least) this option is open to them. Anvar spoke a little of the need to ensure that camp conditions were not of such a standard that refugees would cease to be receptive to the message about voluntary repatriation: his remarks seemed to be focussed more on the Thai experience with the Khmer and Lao, and it was not easy to see how they might be applied to our experience with VRS. We made the point to Anvar that current procedures for voluntary repatriation to Vietnam are crushingly slow - the six-month saga of Madam VO Thi-ba (our telegram number 604) is a case in point.
Nevertheless the UNHCR paper obviously stresses the concept of conditions facilitating voluntary repatriation and (equally obviously) with this we would agree. We therefore suggest that any comment to the UNHCR emphasizes the need for UNHCR to ensure both that in its interviews with refugees all are aware of the possibility of return, and that any such applications are handled as expeditiously as possible. There is little sign of either at the
moment.
Yu
Suenly Mike back
C.E. LEEKS
Principal Assistant Secretary (Security) Operations & Refugees
c.c. Mr. Segar, SEAD, FCO
Mr. Peate, UND, FCO
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