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in maintaining that protection remains the corner stone of his mandate and new emphasis was laid on this matter in the High Commissioner's opening statement. Faced with the alarming increase in the abuse of refugees' rights around the world in recent years, this question should be given special attention. It should be discussed with candour and in public in order that the weight of world opinion can be brought to bear on those who offend. As an illustration. of the importance my Government places on protection, I am delighted to be able to say that my delegation will be represented by Dr Paul Weis, a world authority on these matters, as an adviser during the discussion on Item 4.
I should like to turn now to the High Commissioner's assistance activities.
Given the short time available, Mr Chairman, I intend to limit myself to the mention of three groups of uprooted people that are at the forefront of my Government's concern. In doing so I am in no' sense overlooking the other equally tragic cases which preoccupy the High Commissioner.
The general problem of the plight of Rhodesian refugees is of great concern to us. We maintain close contact with the UNHCR at Headquarters and in the field. We greatly appreciate the close co-operation and assistance that we receive from the Office.
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The problem of these refugees was given tragic emphasis in the recent attack on a refugee camp in Mozambique. My Government condemns the loss of innocent lives.
It remains my Government's view that the best prospect of alleviating the suffering of the Rhodesians who have sought refuge in neighbouring countries is to find an early political settlement for Rhodesia. We earnestly hope that the current efforts to secure such a settlement are successful.
In the meantime, while the search for a solution goes on, Her Majesty's Government have been giving assistance to the UNHCR. Most recently we have agreed to contribute £100,000 for the refugees in Mozambique.
Mr Chairman, the High Commissioner, in his statement to us and to the meeting on 25 June, laid stress on the problem of the "small boat" refugees from Indo-China. His written appeal of 28 July is, in my Government's view, extremely important. As the Committee will realise, Her Majesty's Government is already deeply involved with the problems of these refugees. British ships have rescued many such people from unseaworthy vessels. Many more of these refugees have reached Hong Kong.
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