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(HMG policy on repatriation of Vietnamese refugees?)
6.
We are discussing long-term solutions to Indo-Chinese refugee problem, including the possibility of repatriation, with friends and allies. However, before we would consider repatriating Vietnamese from Hong Kong, would need to be certain that those returning would not be treated harshly. So far no sign from the Vietnamese authorities that they would be willing to accept people back, or of conditions in which returnees would be placed if they did.
(Has HMG raised question of repatriation with Vietnam?)
7.
HMG maintain contact with the Vietnamese authorities on a wide range of issues. The Vietnamese refugee problem is of course one of those issues. We also liaise closely with UNHCR who themselves raise such matters of concern with the Vietnamese from
time to time.
(If pressed)
As you will appreciate, discussions between governments are confidential. Cannot therefore reveal the content of our
discussions with Vietnamese.
(OMELCO proposal for direct Hong Kong approach to Vietnam?)
8.
Hong Kong Government in no practical position to make such an approach. But more important, our soundings of Vietnamese thus far indicate no Vietnamese willingness to accept back any of these who
have left.
(OMELCO mission to Hanoi?)
9.
Anyone can visit Hanoi (provided Vietnamese grant visas). would not stand in the way of such a visit, but doubt very much if it would produce more positive results than other contacts have
achieved thus far.
We
(International Conference on Vietnamese refugee issue?)
10.
Conference on Vietnamese refugee issue alone (ie isolated from wider Indo-Chinese refugee problem) most unlikely to attract wide international support. Firmly believe our contacts with UNHCR and main resettlement countries offer best hope for finding long-term solution.
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