PTAABS
C.
VIETNAMESE REFUGEES
RESETTLEMENT IN THE UK
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Since 1975 have accepted some 20,000 Indo-Chinese refugees for
resettlement. Nearly 13,000 of these have been Vietnamese refugees
from Hong Kong. Third highest number taken from Hong Kong, after
the US and Canada. A substantial commitment to Hong Kong; an
honourable record of which we can be proud.
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My rt hon friend the Home Secretary announced in May last year
that Britain will be accepting a further 468 Vietnamese refugees from Hong Kong with relatives in this country. So far over 150 have
been resettled under this programme.
FURTHER RESETTLEMENT IN UK/PRESSURE FROM HONG KONG
Well aware of great concern in Hong Kong about this issue. conscious of our responsibility to territory. Doing everything possible to help relieve Hong Kong of its refugee burden.
Very
Our latest decision to accept a further 468 Vietnamese refugees
from Hong Kong significant commitment, given pressures and constraints. At this stage our resettlement commitments have been extended as far as possible. Cannot at present announce any further
moves.
VIETNAMESE
REFUGEES
Rate of intake into Britain
Resettlement of refugees primarily matter for my rt hon. Friend
the Home Secretary.
Understand reception of refugees puts considerable demands on
local resources. Is judged that gradual flow of around 20 a month
is most easily handled.
The voluntary agencies have an important role to play.
Government ensures that they receive adequate financial support.
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