RESTRICTED
If
cases were being put forward by the HKG which were not genuine.
they came to the UK they would have difficulty in integrating
because there would not be adequate family support for them when
(We explained that we understood the Home Office
vetted cases very carefully and were unlikely to admit any refugees
who did not meet their criteria.)
they arrived.
6.
Mr von Arnim also expressed concern that some refugees in Hong
Kong were being coerced by the HKG to go to particular resettlement
countries against their wishes."- Mr Leeks pointed out that under
amendments to Hong Kong law introduced from 1980 onwards refugees
were required to accept any resettlement place offered to them.
Resettlement countries often refused to accept those who had turned
down another country's offer. This obviously had to be explained to
A UNHCR
refugees when they were being offered places.
representative was normally present at such interviews.
10 December 1985
Cc Mr Nash LEAD
Thr Wildash UND
RESTRICTED
Olivia Walker
Hong Kong Department