ROYABM
FOREIGN AFFAIRS DEBATE: 30 JUNE 1988: SUMMING UP HKD 24318
416
VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE IN HONG KONG
New policy
The purpose of the new policy is to distinguish genuine refugees
from those arrivals whose motivation for leaving Vietnam is
essentially a desire for a better life, who do not meet the standard
criteria for refugees, and whose prospects of resettlement in the
west are non-existent.
Our commitment to preserving access to resettlement of genuine
refugees is unchanged.
Those who are found not to be refugees will be detained pending
their eventual return to Vietnam, subject to satisfactory assurances
for their treatment on return.
Screening of arrivals will be carried out in accordance with
UNHCR guidelines. UNHCR will be able to monitor the screening.
Will UK make new resettlement commitment?
We are currently considering all aspects of the problem
including resettlement. In the meantime, our existing resettlement programme is continuing.
Resettlement elsewhere?
We will continue to urge all resettlement countries to maintain
or increase their levels of offtake.
Reaction of others to the new policy?
We have explained the new policy to resettlement countries and
UNHCR. All understand the reasons for the new policy. Many have been supportive.