CONFIDENTIAL
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7.
OVERSEAS STUDENTS' FEES
HMG is still studying the report of the Overseas Students Trust, and the Hong Kong Government's proposals for joint funding of Hong Kong students. Hope we will be able to reach a decision
soon.
8.
AIR SERVICES
Talks with Chinese began on 7 December. Cannot comment on likely outcome. Combination of London and Hong Kong traffic rights in international air services negotiations provides benefits for both Hong Kong and UK based airlines. Not a case of Hong Kong's interests being constantly subordinated to UK.
9.
NATIONALITY
HMG believes that Baroness Vickers' Bill not necessary. However, reflects public recognition that Falkland Islanders are a wholly exceptional case. HMG's commitment to other Dependent Territories, including Hong Kong, underlined by recently-
announced decision to insert "British" in passports of BDTCs.
10.
VIETNAMESE REFUGEES
Sympathise with problems faced by Hong Kong. HMG will do what they can to help, but unrealistic to expect a further quota in present circumstances. Hope news of closed camp policy will spread in Vietnam and deter refugees from seeking to come to
Hong Kong.
11.
FAR EAST PRISONERS OF WAR
Clearly a emotional issue. Sympathise with POWs, but Hong Kong Governmet already provides considerable benefits, comparable to
those in UK. Canadian system not necessarily applicable to Hong Kong where civilian population also suffered greatly during war.
CONFIDENTIAL
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