GOVERMENT HOUSE HONG KONG.
FRI 12 JUN 92 11:18
CONFIDENTIAL #
16
-
PG.10
Q47
Is it not
A47
more
cost-effective
numbers by sea rather by air?
a
are returned
return
to return large
We are exploring all options to ensure that
returnees
to Vietnam in the most
cost-effective manner. However, we have developed
system of
air by
of which we are noW
confident, and which suits us well in operational terms. To return large numbers of returnees by sea would probably require large numbers of escorts who will be kept away from their existing duties, representing a significant drain on manpower.
048
What
is the
particular) on
state of world opinion (US in
the return of these asylum seekers
who have been in Hong Kong for such a long time?
A48 Under the CPA, to which USA is a party, those who
have been screened out must return to their country
of origin. Believe there is increasing support
world-wide for the need for non-refugees to return
home.
Q49 Position of NGOs?
A49
AS orderly return
proceeds in each camp, the need
upon
the
for a wide range of NGO services will cease and
these can be scaled down.
We hope NGOs will
continue to concentrate their efforts 28,000 unscreened asylum seekers still here. NGOS
continue to provide a wide range of essential
services in the camps and we are grateful for all
their hard work.