TNAG-0653-FCO40-802-Previously-closed-extract-Folio-87.-Now-released-and-reunite-1977 — Page 23

From: James Boyden *•

HOUSE OF COMMONS

LONDON SWIA OAA

5 April 1977

Deft Ever,

On 23 March, I chaired a meeting arranged by the Standing Conference of British Organisations for Aid to Refugees, for voluntary organisations working for the resettlement of refugees in this country, to meet Mr. Gilbert Jaeger, Director of Assistance, Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Geneva.

One of the points discussed was the problem of the "boat" people from Vietnam at present temporarily in Hong Kong and elsewhere. The voluntary organisations appreciate the decision of HM Government that 116 of these refugees should be received into this country.

Some concern was expressed, however, about the delay in making arrange- ments for these refugees to come here. It was pointed out that, as other countries making similar offers had already selected their quotas, unless decisions were reached at an early date, those remaining might be the most difficult group to resettle in a European setting.

We do realise the difficulties of making these arrangements and that some delays are inevitable but I have been asked by the voluntary agencies to urge that everything possible should be done to speed up the decision about those who are to come to this'country.

Yours ever,

Jena

Chairman, Europe Committee

Standing Conference of British Organisations for Aid to Refugees

6 APR 177

Evan Luard Esq M.P.

Under-Secretary of State

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE London SW1.

Rec. and Ack.

UND

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