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/and
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a major criterion for UNHCR resettlement countries, but it is not the only one and we hope future allocations will take fully into account the humanitarian needs of all refugees.
9.
These are some lines of argument which posts may find it necessary to counter:
A.
B.
Hong Kong can cope but conditions in refugee camps elsewhere make it essential to reduce numbers there first. Basic minimum standards should be met in all refugee camps and where these are lacking it is for UNHCR and the international community in co-operation with the host government to ensure that adequate medical and other resources are available. In certain respects (e.g. extensive innoculation programmes) it is essential for higher standards to be met in Hong Kong since the threat of any outbreak of disease is so much greater in a dense urban environment.
If refugees can be allowed to work in Hong Kong why not let them settle there? Allowing refugees to work is a temporary measure designed to sustain the morale of refugees and, incidentally, greatly reducing the care and maintenance costs to UNHCR. The refugees have no claims on Hong Kong and regard their stay here as temporary, as elsewhere in the region. The immense population pressures in Hong Kong make it impossible to absorb more refugees and displaced persons from Indo-China on top of the 14,200 allowed to settle since 1975 (and continuing small numbers with close family ties). Although many boat refugees speak Cantonese, they do not have the links with Hong Kong which are a feature of immigrants from China. Finally, the fact that many refugees are able to work means that they will leave Hong Kong better equipped to readjust to their new life overseas than if they had been confined to camps throughout their long wait for resettlement offers.
10.
We should be grateful if copy addressees would let us know of any additional points which come up when talking to local officials and for advance notice of any visitors to Hong Kong (in whatever capacity) who might be influential in securing more resettlement places.
11.
Finally, the recent increase in the speed of the UK resettlement programme (1,046 in October) should help to dispose of the argument that the UK has not been doing enough. We are grateful to all those in the UK who have taken such a close and helpful interest in the problem here.
Yours ever;
Rain
(I C Orr)
PS We have sent the fact sheet separately by unclassified bag
(air mail to some posus). Translations into French and German are being prepared RESTRICTED
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