2
If the first port of call rejects the refugees then the Master is faced with
a dilemma, The FCO and the UNHCR would make representations on humanitarian grevinde to the government concerned but if this failed information would then have to be passed to the government of the country of the ships following port of call.
Faced with the prospect that no foreign port would accept the refugees (which has not happened so far) raises the question of whether they would be accepted at a UK port. Whilst no guarantees could be given on accepting the refugecs the response of HMG would be to view this problem sympathetically.
3 Your third question asks what is the Government's position regarding expenses incidental to the maintenance and transport of refugees.
We understand that this is of concern to your members, if this is so we would welcome on exposition of how this matter is dealt with between shipowners anú insurers before considering the matter further.
The related matter of safety equipment, LSA, victualling and medical supplies which might be required by the refugees is for the local commissioner of the UNHCR and the Red Cross to consider. Needless to say representatives of the FCO at diplomatic posts abroad would lend assistance in bringing this matter to the attention of the UNHCR and the Red Cross.
Hope this assists you,
Yous
kunwary
J M GRAMAM
cc:
P Morgan Esq N A Pinch Esq CE Birt Esq C N Salmon Esq
UND FCO
MAR
Home Office UKMLS Geneva
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