on the return of a substantial number of volunteers we may possibly have to look at the question again. But I would expect Ministers to be very reluctant to see any financial assistance given to volunteers, even through UNHCR channels, unless it was already clear that this would lead on to a broader repatriation scheme. Very similar considerations would, I imagine, apply to the attitude of the Executive Council towards any proposal from the Hong Kong Government that financial assistance should be given to volunteers from Hong Kong funds.
CC:
100
Clitsk
CO Hum
Hong Kong Department
ET Davies Esq, CMG, Hanoi
R D Clift Esq, CMG, Political Adviser,
Hong Kong
Mr Williams, UND
Mr Colvin, SEAD
CONFIDENTIAL