TNAG-0794-FCO40-998-Refugees-from-Vietnam-in-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-boat-people-1978 — Page 133

CONFIDENTIAL

ANNEX A

SUMMARY OF VIEWS OF OTHER STATES ON THE UNHCR MEETING ON INDO-CHINA REFUGEES: GENEVA, 11-12 DECEMBER 1978

United States

1. The conference is an important step towards producing a viable international scheme for alleviating, if not solving, a growing problem. This scheme should include good transit camps, and long-term arrangements for resettlement of the refugees. The US recognises the UK's problems, but hopes we will do everything possible to assist, both financially and by accepting refugees.

Canada

2.

The conference should (but probably will not) produce a programme of action. At the least it should be a useful means of involving more countries in the problem. It is important to avoid a descent into sterile political wrangling over

criticism of Vietnam, but the Vietnamese human rights record must not be condoned. Pressure on Vietnam from the ASEAN countries might

be effective.

Australia

3. The conference is not likely to produce more than a wider international appreciation of the problem, and perhaps more financial support for UNHCR. There should be restraint in criticism of Vietnam, since Vietnamese cooperation would be desirable. Australia will accept 10,500 refugees in this financial year.

France

4.

The conference should avoid political issues and concentrate on the humanitarian problem. France sympathises with the UK position, and is willing to do her share in dealing with the refugees.

FRG

5. The problem is essentially short-term. The FRG already accepts large numbers of East European immigrants and there is a limit to what else she can do. However, large-scale financial assistance is being given, and may be increased, and some refugees will be accepted.

Belgium

6.

The conference is a very important stage in dealing with a serious problem: it would be undesirable for it to become politicised. Coordination between "Western Group" delegates should be encouraged. Belgium faces similar problems (and takes a similar approach) to the UK.

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