And we are not treating so-called economic refugees as they might
be elsewhere in the world. They are, strictly speaking, illegal
immigrants and could be despatched unceremoniously whence they came.
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But we have insisted on - and obtained Vietnamese assurances (at
talks in London in mid-October) that returnees to be treated
humanely: returning boat people will not be punished.
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And on Vietnamese agreement that UNHCR should monitor reintegration into Vietnam.
- We shall proceed in stages, starting with the volunteers. Hope that this reintegration into normal life will encourage others to
return. Will watch situation closely with UNHCR.
Determined that these measures will work. If grounds for believing they won't, no-one will be returned.
Remember everyone is working for comprehensive regional
arrangements for the return of the boat people.
Is there an alternative?
We may all wish Britain, and rest of world, had unlimited capacity
to help. Regrettably they do not.
- We have already taken in 13,000 Vietnamese since 1975 - more
refugees from there than from any other country in the world.
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Great strain on local authorities: housing, training etc.
At present 20 a month. A further resettlement programme is under
active consideration.
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To argue that arrivals since 16 June should be resettled cruelly
short-sighted. Cannot be done. If it could would encourage
thousands more to leave. Back to square one.