In these talks they assured us that not only would boat people returning not be punished; but, just as important, they were happy for the UNHCR to monitor all the arrangements established for the
reintegration of these people back into Vietnamese life.
The Vietnamese Government know only too well that not only Britain, but the rest of the world will be watching very carefully to see that they honour the undertakings they have given.
I firmly believe that it is not in their interests to renege
in any way on these assurances; and I do not think they will.
Indeed, we would not return anyone if we were not completely
satisfied with the treatment they would receive.
Conditions in the Camps
Hong Kong Government have had to accommodate 25,000 boat
people, including over 17,000 arrivals this year, safely and with
adequate provisions of food and medical facilities. A major strain
on their resources: but they have coped magnificantly.
We and Hong Kong Government attach great importance to
ensuring that conditions are as good as possible in the
circumstances. The Hong Kong Government have embarked on a crash programme to build additional accommodation. Hong Kong Government in close consultation with UNHCR on all aspects of this problem.
[conditions for "refugees"] Hong Kong Government are bringing forward their programme to liberalise conditions for those accorded refugee status. These are being given access to work and education to prepare them for eventual resettlement. In due course UNHCR will manage the "refugee" centres.
[conditions in San Yick factory building] Hong Kong Government are planning to move the residents from this building as soon as possible. About 1,000 people have already been moved. It is
envisaged that all will be rehoused by early 1989.
UNCLASSIFIED