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HONG KONG AND THE MULTI-FIBRE ARRANGEMENT
3.
We are aware of the importance of trade in textiles and
clothing for Hong Kong's economy. The Territory has always
been efficient in implementing the Bilateral Agreement with the
European Community concluded under the Multi-Fibre Arrangement.
It is too early to speculate on the future of the Multi-Fibre
Arrangement. However, Hong Kong's case will be carefully
considered together with those of all other interested parties.
ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION
4.
Hong Kong is a very densely populated place. The large
numbers of illegal immigrants arriving in recent years have
caused considerable economic and social difficulties. It was
therefore necessary for the existing immigration policy to be
tightened up. The Royal Hong Kong Police Force and the Hong
Kong Garrison have perfomed extremely well in very difficult
circumstances, and the new measures announced in October 1980
have so far proved a success. [If necessary] The people
concerned are not refugees from social, political or religious
persecution, nor are they maltreated on their return to China.
VIETNAMESE REFUGEES
5.
We fully appreciate the problems facing Hong Kong in
sheltering large numbers of Vietnamese Refugees. The
compassionate attitude of the Hong Kong Government has been
praised internationally.
We are working with our allies to
resettle these people, and have already resettled some 8,500
stingly
in this country. [[If pressed] It would be premature to
comment on the possibility of a further United Kingdom quota
before Lord Carrington has reviewed the position with the
Governor in March.
16.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.