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order to verify their origin in China and to make the necessary arrangements for their speedy repatriation. We think that provided that the transit centre was run by UNHCR or an organisa- tion funded by the UNHCR then it would be a party to the whole procedure and criticism of our action would be deflected.
The chances of getting the UNHCR to agree to something as positive of this are, as always, very low. However the Americans and the Philippine Government would be very keen to solve this problem because each is only too aware of the fact that there are about a quarter of a million Vietnamese refugees in China. Other resettlement countries are also concerned that an exodus of even a small proportion of these refugees from China could swamp the coastal states which grant them asylum. Therefore, it is in their interests to try and solve this problem. therefore probable that sufficient pressure could be brought to bear on UNHCR to provide such a transit centre.
We have floated this proposal in general terms with the UNHCR, Americans, Australians and Canadians here.
All are interested. We feel that we have a good relationship with the NCNA and the Chinese authorities over ex-China cases, even if the speed with which they operate is less than we would have liked. If the proposals is to be taken forward, we would mention it to the NCNA, perhaps in advance of, or at the same time as, an approach by the UNHCR.
Action, we think, depends on the trend. We have had one voluntary departure case last week (involving 49 refugees). If the numbers continue at last year's rate, then we feel we should do something.
Te
مهها لعدة
people
I will continue to keep you posted on developments.
yours,
Ken
(K. J. Woodhouse)
for Secretary for Security
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