although Hong Kong have reported a significant drop out rate and a reduction in new volunteers. This seems to have been caused by concerns about security in the departure centres after the Shek Kong fire and, more seriously, by the (unwarranted) rekindling of hope of an American change of heart in the wake of Vice President Quayle's remarks in Geneva last month. The Hong Kong authorities are doing their best to correct this impression and to allay any fears on security. The Americans in Hong Kong have also been helpful.
The drop in new arrivals in Hong Kong has been very marked. There are now only six new arrivals waiting to be returned to Vietnam. We are considering how best to organize repatriation, including possibly a mixed flight with UNHCR, but it seems unlikely that this can be organised before late March at the earliest. If a general election intervenes, we may consider sending them back in ones and twos on scheduled flights, as we now do with deported offenders. We would of course clear our lines with you before doing so.
ever
و
J S Wall Esq
10 Downing Street
(S L Gass)
Private Secretary