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that they receive adequate financial support.
Britain to take fewer than 468?
I am aware that for various reasons some of the original 468 named individuals will not now be coming to Britain. The 468 comprise those who meet certain agreed criteria under the extended family reunion scheme. In view of the likely shortfall, we will of course be prepared to consider further applications from any other individuals who meet these criteria.
RESETTLEMENT ELSEWHERE
We keep in close touch with all the governments who have in the past taken refugees from Hong Kong. We are deeply grateful for the contribution which they have made. We are urging them vigorously to follow our own recent initiative and agree to accept more. We also work closely with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees who gives priority to the resettlement of refugees from Hong Kong. He is in close contact with many governments which seek his advice when allocating their refugee resettlement quotas.
Our diplomatic campaign for further resettlement places for refugees from Hong Kong is a major priority. We have received some encouraging responses, and some additional places have been offered as a result of our representations. But often the response is disappointing. I assure the House that we will persist in our efforts to persuade resettlement countries to do more for Hong Kong.
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