For decision
CONFIDENTIAL
on 6 September 1988
HKD 243/4
22 SEPS
53
XCC (88)126 27
Copy No..
MEMORANDUM FOR EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
LIBERALISATION OF CLOSED CENTRES FOR
VIETNAMESE REFUGEES
Mr Huan
~
Mr lent 1/4
APA
THE PROBLEM
Intersky, parhully he Problems
As part of the package of measures announced on '16 June concerning the new policy on refugee status, it was agreed that a gradual liberalisation of the closed centres for refugees would commence during the first half of 1989. It has become apparent that an earlier desirable both to relieve the tensions caused by overcrowding in the centres and as part of a general understanding with the
UNHCR.
noho at
start on liberalisation is
is Pira 12.
RECOMMENDATION AND ADVICE SOUGHT
2
We recommend that
(a) the progressive liberalisation of the closed centres for refugees commence immediately;
(b)
(c)
(d)
the full liberalisation of the Tuen Mun and Sham Shui Po centres be completed within six months;
the liberalisation of the San Yick centre be commenced immediately and be taken as far as the constraints composed by the building allow;
plans be made to move the residents of the Cape Collinson centre to more suitable accommodation but that the initial steps towards liberalisation be taken in situ.
BACKGROUND AND ARGUMENT
3
On 24 May Members considered memorandum XCS (88) 10 which, contained inter alia a proposal
inter alia a proposal on the liberalisation of the closed refugee camps. Subsequently, an announcement was made explaining that the progressive liberalisation of these
leading towards camps,
status under
under the responsibility of the UNHCR, would commence during the first
centre open
CONFIDENTIAL