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had taken for its size of population and added that Australia intended to make a positive statement on a quota at the Conference (see Canberra telno 401 - not to all). He hoped other Governments, particularly the European Community, would give or initiate similar commitments. On financial support, he said that an enormous cost was being borne by first asylum countries, the resettlement countries and UNHCR. These costs were rising and he hoped those countries who could not offer resettlement places would offer money instead. He also hoped Governments at the Conference would be willing to make firm statements on contributions. He said that during M Stirn's visit (French Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs) last week, M Stirn had said that the Community was considering proposals but he (Mr Wilson) had no details.
6. Mr Wilson mentioned brieflyy a UNHCR proposal for 'indicative numbers' but said he had no details. He hoped Governments would also make contributions to the proposed 'international refugee fund' commensurate with the funds needed to overcome the problem.
7. Ir Vilson concluded by saying that Australia envisaged steps (towards solving the refugee problem) of increased seriousners and intensity.
8. The DFA would be instructing its Missions in EEC capitals to speak to foreign ministries in similar terms.
9. Mr Wilson asked if we had any new information on the EEC's reconsideration of food aid to Vietnam. I said I had heard on the BBC today that a decision had been deferred to the next Council of Ministers meeting in about two weeks' time.
13 July 1979
cc: SAD, FCO
Ding
DK Tilling
HK & CD, FCO
I C Orr Esa, HONG KONG
Chanceries: ASCAN Fosts, EEC Fosts, WELLINGTON WASHINGTON, ATHENS, OTTAWA, UKMIS NEW YORK, GENEVA
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