ARRAEB (8)
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concession even of the size requested by the Governor would not
achieve the desired result; and this contribution would set a
precedent for further such requests.
However, the implication of
HMG failing to respond in an appropriate manner could be very
serious indeed. The situation facing Hong Kong is a major crisis and it would seem odd indeed if HMG did not lift a finger to help.
If Ministers were to decide to approve allocation of funds for this
purpose they would have to make clear that this was a one off payment in response to an exceptional need.
Private Secretary
ARPant
A R Paul
FROM: D H Gillmore W37 270 2156
CC:
19 April 1989 PS/Lord Glenarthur
PS/Mr Eggar PS/Mr Patten
Mr Blatherwick
Mr McLaren
Mr Thomas, SEAD
Mr Brenton, UND
Mr Ireton, ODA
Mr Crabbie, Finance Dept Mr Machin, ODA
[VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE IN HONG KONG: FINANCE]
1.
I agree with Mr Paul that we face an imminent crisis and that early decisions are called for. The proposal for a £6m contribution to the Pillar Point refugee camp (which Sir D Wilson thinks would be just adequate in terms of Hong Kong attitudes) is the only option on which an immediate decision could be taken but, even then, only if ODA were prepared to allocate that sum from the balance of refugee funds (ie £6m out of the £7m remaining).
2.
The Secretary of State may wish to discuss this at his meeting tomorrow at 11.30. Mr Patten, who will see copies of these papers overnight, will be at that meeting.
Klittum
D H Gillmore
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