51. The Hong Kong Government is now owed US$70 million. UNHCR are anxious to repay their debt but do not have the money. Following the Government's intervention, the UNHCR's recent appeal for contributions to CPA financing contained a prominent reference to this problem, and British diplomatic missions in the capitals of major donor countries have been lobbying for increased

contributions. Since 1989 the United Kingdom has contributed more than £56 million towards a solution of the Vietnamese Migrant

problem.

CONCLUSION

The Government remain determined to fulfil their obligation to

administer Hong Kong fairly and effectively up to 1 July 1997; and

to do everything possible to ensure the continued success of Hong Kong beyond that date. The Government's decision to appoint the Rt Hon Christopher Patten as the last Governor of Hong Kong

underlines the political priority they give to Britain's

responsibilities in Hong Kong. The Government welcome the Committee's intention to conduct a further enquiry into Hong Kong

during 1993.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

March 1993

select.cttee.PR.JRB

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