WHAT MORE CAN BE DONE TO HELP HONG KONG WITH VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE
PROBLEM?
We are helping Hong Kong in every, way we can:
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(a) have committed over 4 million pounds towards cost of emergency accommodation for boat people; and have contributed 8 million pounds to the cost of accommodating refugees awaiting
resettlement;
(b)
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have agreed to take total of 2,000 refugees from Hong Kong
over 3 years;
(c) will be holding urgent discussions with Vietnamese to ensure
that comprehensive repatriation programme is promptly put in hand;
(d)
Geneva Conference provides basis for comprehensive solution
to problem. But this will take time.
HOW WOULD HMG REACT IF HONG KONG GOVERNMENT ENDED POLICY OF FIRST
ASYLUM?
Situation in Hong Kong is desperate. We are doing all we can to help alleviate pressure on nong Kong.
But if situation continues to deteriorate cannot rule out drastic
action. May be obliged to suspend first asylum policy.