TNAG-0111-FCO40-147-Detainees-and-prisoners-following-19671968-disturbances-1969 — Page 183

OF THE

COMMITTEE

+

GENEVA

INTERNATIONAL

RED

CROSS

2

:

H. HEFTI

HONORARY DELEGATE 1. C. R. C. G. P. O. BOX 659

HONG KONG

CABLE ADDRESS: INTERCROSS HONG KONG TEL. 236131

"11. In all places where prisoners are required to live or work,

a) the windows shall be large enough to enable the prisoners

to read or work by natural light, and shall be so constructed that they can allow the entrance of fresh air whether or not there is artificial ventilation;

b) artificial light shall be provided sufficient for the pri-

soners to read or work without injury to eyesight."

I understand that plans are under consideratioh to improve matters and an early solution to the problem would be appreciated by the ICRC.

4. The ICRC appreciates the fact that the matter of "repatriation"

could not be discussed. Nevertheless, and for their confidential information, they would be interested to know:

a) What becomes of the prisoners/detainees after completion of

sentence?

Presumably a Hong Kong resident simply returns to his home address, but what happens in the case of a non-Hong Kong- resident and persons who entered Hong Kong illegally?

b) Have there been cases where released detainees expressed the desire to go or return to the People's Republic of China and were or are unable to do so?

c) Have there been requests for repatriation to other places?

5. The ICRC is of the opinion that "delegations" which might call

in future on the British Red Cross (or any other organisation) in connection with "complaints" about the physical conditions of detention of prisoners should be automatically and officially referred to me. It is felt that too rigid an attitude by the authorities on this point is not without danger since it would strengthen the belief amongst families/friends/supporters of detainees that the treatment of prisoners is not in accordance with assurances given by Government.

5. I have, furthermore, been asked to find out whether or not some-

thing can be done about the clothing sent by the Chinese Red Cross, Canton branch, and be handed over to the detainees.

I would appreciate your studying the various points and to let me have your comments. You might prefer to discuss the matter personally

ith me and I shall be only too glad to call on you at your convenience.

ours sincerely

CONFUSENTIAL

"Ullebs