TNAG-0891-FCO40-1101-Refugees-from-Vietnam-in-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-boat-people-1979 — Page 125

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7.

There seem to be three main approaches:-

(a) To name a figure, possibly around 7,500 (which

would be presentationally attractive for

De Waldehim) as a quota for the next 12 months,

from which we would deduct immediately the

unexpired portion of our present quota and the

refugees already accepted from the Sibonga,

Roachbank and, if applicable, Norse Viking.

This would yield an actual figure of some 5,000

.refugees.

(b) We could instead name a lower figure, ie 5,000,

which would be net of other commitments. This

would have the same practicable effect as (a)

above, and might be more acceptable to public

opinion here. However, the present trend of

press and TV comment suggests that even a higher

figure might be viewed favourably.

(c) The same figures could be expressed as a monthly

quota of 400, thereby simplifying the problem of

offsetting refugees picked up by British vessels

against our quota.

8. I suggest that we should make our declaration to

UNHCR and Dr Waldheim before you leave for the Tokyo

summit. We know that President Carter wants to raise

the subject there, and a prior declaration from the UK

will put you in a good position. This is important,

also, if pressure is to be brought on Japan to do more.

9.

I am copying this letter to all other members of

Cabinet.