Surtaz & Stale
Stale (FS
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HKB 2+3/11
05 JUN 198
CONFIDENTIAL
FROM: A R Paul, Hong Kong Dept
DATE: 1 June 1989
cc: PS/Lord Glenarthur
PS/Mr Patten PS/Mr Eggar PS/Mr Patten PS/PUS
Mr Gillmore
Mr McLaren Mr Blatherwick Mr Colvin, SEAD
Mr Crabbie, RMD
Mr Machin, ODA
A.
Private Secretary
VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE: ACCOMMODATION
Problem
1.
The Governor has requested urgent assistance from HMG in the form of 100 tents and funds to facilitate the provision of emergency accommodation at Lei Yue Mun barracks. How should we respond?
Recommendation
2.
I recommend that we respond immediately and positively to the Governor's request for tents and that the Secretary of State writes as soon as possible to the Chief Secretary requesting additional funds from the Reserve for both the tents and the Lei Yue Mun project.
3. Given the urgency of Hong Kong's requirement for tents, I further recommend that Ministers agree this part of the Governor's request before knowing the Chief Secretary's response; and that if the worst came to the worst the money will be found from within the Department's existing
resources.
In
4.
I submit a draft minute to the Chief Secretary. the time available I have discussed it only in general terms with Mr Crabbie (RMD). If the Secretary of State agrees with the recommended approach, it will need further polishing and refinement. RMD agree.
Background
B. 5. Mr Court's minute of 1 June records Lord Glenarthur's
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