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4.
I attach two of the latest telegrams from the Governor (Hong
Kong telnos 1480 and 1486) emphasising once again the absolute
necessity of a satisfactory outcome on mandatory repatriation at the
ICIR and asking Ministers to take the opportunity of Mr Hocke's
visit to underline our concerns.
5. I recognise the sensitivities involved in dealing with
Mr Hocke. And I accept Ministers have not yet fully considered
their strategy for the ICIR in advance of the planned OD meeting.
But we have agreed objectives on mandatory repatriation and I think
we must take the opportunity of Mr Hocke's visit to speak to him in
frank terms.
6.
It seems that the concept of "pushing off" the boat people has
now begun to be seriously contemplated, eg by Mr Howell in discussion with the Secretary of State.
If that is the case,
perhaps the time has come to be less diffident about discussing
openly the idea of mandatory repatriation, which is surely significantly less inhumane than a "push off" policy, with the risks
to human life that the entails.
7. I submit a revised line for the Secretary of State's and
Lord Glenarthur's brief. I have discussed this in general terms
with Mr Colvin.
I hope that you and Mr Colvin will also feel able to discuss
our objectives for the ICIR in similar terms when you are in
8.
Washington.
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A R Paul