Points to Make
CONFIDENTIAL
Anti-Piracy Programme (APP)
1.
Distressing that piracy against boat refugees remains a problem. We look forward to further improvements in the UNHCR/Thai APP and to further reductions in the incidence of pirate attacks.
2. Since 1982, the UK has supported the UNHCR/Thai APP. Cash contributions to date total £405,000 including £70,000 for 1986/87. [If pressed: future participation will depend on the implementation of the recommendations made by the assessment team, and on the continued support of other donor countries.]
3. The UK also helped by providing an officer, Lieutenant Commander Richard Just, RN, to the expert assessment team which studied the APP in January 1986. We hope that the team's recommendations can be
fully implemented.
Rescue at Sea Resettlement Offers (RASRO)
4. UK has participated in RASRO since its inception in 1985 and has accepted 88 boat refugees rescued under the scheme for resettlement.
In principle, (and as long as the programme remains distinct from DISERO) we are prepared to continue our participation.
5. RASRO helps the problem by encouraging ships to pick up refugees in distress and countries in the region to allow their
disembarkation. We are confident that British ships' masters adhere
to international code and practice for rescuing those in distress at
sea.
Orderly Departure Programme (ODP)
while not an ideal solution, provides a safer alternative
for those who would otherwise leave their country by boat.
6.
ODP,
The UK has accepted some 2,700 Vietnamese for resettlement under the ODP. Confirm continuing commitment to accept those who qualify
7.
CONFIDENTIAL