+
The US position fails to address the problem of what should be
done with the large numbers of non-refugees who will not volunteer,
or the problem of another major influx of people in 1990.
38. VOLUNTARY PROGRAMME
Are doing everything we can to increase the flow of voluntary
returns.
Pleased to see the number of volunteers has increased and that UNHCR
are planning for more flights each month and greater counselling.
Vietnam has agreed to expand reception facilities and to raise
rate of acceptance of volunteers to 1,000 a month from 1 May 1990.
Are working on publicity and video material to increase awareness of the voluntary programme and reduce apprehension about how people will be treated on their return to Vietnam.
39. THE CHINESE ROLE
The vast majority of those arriving in Hong Kong are now crossing
the land border from Vietnam into China and transitting Chinese
territory before travelling the final short stage by boat into Hong
Kong. We continue to press the Chinese to take measures to prevent
people from reaching Hong Kong in this way.
40. POSITION OF VIETNAMESE GOVERNMENT
The Vietnamese Government have consistently said that they are
opposed to the forcible return of non-refugees to Vietnam. The repatriation on 12 December 1989 of 51 non-refugees who had not
volunteered was carried out without the use of force.
The Vietnamese agreed during negotiations with Minister of State
Mr Francis Maude in mid-February to increase the rate at which
volunteers can return to 1,000 a month from the beginning of May.
Negotiations continue on arrangements for the return of those who
PSRAAL