ROYABL (3)
CONFIDENTIAL
(e) Excom
Hope UNHCR will be able to indicate cooperation with and support for new policy at informal Excom tomorrow.
(£) Selling points (if necessary)
Background of increasing arrivals in the region and regional
demands for tougher action. Reports of Thai push-offs, Thais
accommodating all Vietnamese boat people in holding camps without
access to resettlement, Malaysia's announcement it will close Pulau
Bidong in twelve months.
Hong Kong's reaction preserves access to resettlement for
genuine refugees, provides safe haven for non-refugees-
Hong Kong's new policy based on acceptable standards, breaks no
new ground either for UNHCR or for other governments. In line with
ICG consensus.
Positive response to deteriorating situation. Provides an acceptable lead in the region particularly does not provide any basis for push-offs.
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As a part of the new policy, the Hong Kong Government intend over the next 6-12 months to liberalise the regime in the centres,
which will house all those accorded refugee status (including pre 16
June arrivals) pending resettlement.
New policy provide's a deterrent to those wishing to leave Vietnam for essentially economic reasons [whose resettlement propects are virtually non-existent], while ensuring that the rights. of genuine refugees are properly protected.
Look to UNHCR to fulfil their mandate by participating in screening procedures, and to continue to take a lead in addressing
the real problems of the new outflows. Situation has changed and
demands new solutions.
CONFIDENTIAL