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to lead their delegation, but their final choice will depend on the level of representation of other states. The Canadian High Commission have told us it is their Government's intention to field either an Assistant Under-Secretary from their External Affairs Department, or a Deputy Minister from another department (such as Immigration).
13.
Although the Americans and Canadians may be represented at a political level, I doubt whether it would be appropriate for a British Minister to attend, whether from the FCO or the Home Office. UKMIS Geneva believe that most of the two days will be spent discussing the greater problems of the very large number of refugees in camps in Thailand and elsewhere. There should be less time for the problem of "boat refugees", which more directly affects British interests. It would seem best for Sir James Murray to represent us, with support from the Home Office if that Department wishes it. A member of SEAD with knowledge of Indo-China could usefully be attached to the delegation, which will also include a senior official from the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
EEC/ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting
14. At the recent meeting in Brussels between EEC and ASEAN Foreign Ministers, the ASEAN countries made clear the seriousness of their concern about the refugee problem. They wanted the refugee burden to be shared equitably by the whole international community and conveyed the fear that, if large-scale action were not forth- coming soon, there would be serious political and security problems
for them.
Conclusions
15. Additional financial assistance, although welcome, would not, in itself be sufficient. What the ASEAN countries particularly Malaysia and Thailand who are worst affected - require is more international offers to resettle the refugees as they arive. Unless such offers are forthcoming, these countries will be compelled by
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