8.
(4)
SECRET
Space and communications. The Takuling Clearance Centre is a small unit within a small rural police station in the closed area, adjacent to the Border. To provide transport and facilities for visitors on the scale envisaged within the closed area would present difficulties.
The alternative suggestion of having some sort of permanent 'friend in court' at Takuling does not really provide a solution. The presence of another paid official would not dispel the criticism voiced by
Colonel Montgomery. Even if some welfare agency agreed to provide staff, we have doubts whether this would achieve any positive advantages. It would certainly slow down the repatriation process by encouraging objections. False hopes would be raised, the 'friend' would seek publicity for his clients, and delay and publicity would be generated. This is a situation we wish to avoid.
9.
We have operated the ground rules agreed with the Office when the policy of repatriation was re-introduced in 1974. In the three years which have intervened we have gain experience in applying a difficult, but necessary policy efficiently, speedily and humanely. I would advise against making any changes in the agreed and well tried procedure.
wei
Your
Bun
(L M Davies) Secretary for Security
SECRET
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