DSR 11C (Revised 5/87)
SECURITY CLASSIFICATION
Top Secret
Secret
Confidential
Restricted
Unclassified
PRIVACY MARKING
In Confidence
47.
Two rounds of talks have been held between
representatives from the United Kingdom and Hong Kong
Governments and the Government of the Socialist Republic
of Vietnam. During the second round of talks in London
in October 1988, the two sides agreed on the need for
comprehensive arrangements for all boat people arriving
in Hong Kong after 16 June 1988. The two sides agreed to
make an immediate start on arrangements for the return of
those who had already asked to be repatriated.
Assurances have been obtained from the Vietnamese
authorities that all returnees will be treated humanely
and that no one will be punished. It was also agreed
that the UNHCR should monitor the treatment of returnees
and their reintegration into Vietnam. In December, the
UNHCR and the Vietnamese authorities concluded a
Memorandum of Understanding on the principles and
procedures for voluntary repatriation to Vietnam. The
UNHCR is taking charge of practical arrangements for the
return of those who have expressed a wish to return to
Vietnam. The first group of about 80 is due to go back
on 2 March. The UNHCR will provide modest financial
assistance to help those repatriated to resume their
lives in Vietnam. HMG have contributed US$125,000 and
the Hong Kong Government have contributed HK$1m towards
this programme.
48.
In December 1988, the Government announced that they
were prepared in principle to accept for resettlement an
additional 1,000 Vietnamese refugees from Hong Kong over