TNAG-1224-FCO40-1537-Visits-to-the-UK-by-official-and-unofficial-members-of-the-E-1983 — Page 84

VIETNAMESE REFUGEES:

SECRET

(DEFENSIVE)

7. Sympathise with Hong Kong's difficulties.

Aware of the

enormous burden they have shouldered and their admirable record as

one of main places of first asylum. We are continuing to explore

ways of resolving problems in conjunction with UNHCR and

resettlement countries.

8.

Hope that closed camp policy will prove to have deterrent

effect. Understand number of arrivals so far this year is lower

than in 1982

?

9.

[Only if raised]. Question of involuntary repatriation was

looked into. Afraid we could not justify this to Parliament or

public opinion.

10. [Only if raised]. Regret that UK unable to accept any further

quota. Re-settlements here have not been successful. But we continue to accept ship rescue, family reunion cases and commitments under the Orderly Departure Programme.

NATIONALITY

(DEFENSIVE)

Discretionary Registration Under Section 4(5) of BNA 1981

11. Realise interest in this matter in Hong Kong. Matter

primarily one for the Home Office with whom we are discussing.