TNAG-1529-FCO40-2093-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-refugees-general-1986 — Page 63

FCO40 Hong Kong Department Records 聯邦事務部香港部檔案 All

در خونه بره

A.

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actions taken. Two, under the DCA the HKG fund 75% of the cost to the Hospital. If they did decide to make an issue of the matter they could argue that they, indirectly and without their knowledge or agreement, have been funding 75% of the cost of treatment provided. An extreme (and unlikely) position perhaps, but with the onset of the DCA negotiations I doubt if we want any hostages to fortune at this time.

4a. above is the easier to resolve. Subject to GF1 and GF4's agreement I would recommend that these charges be waived, on humanitarian grounds, the training value these cases provide and because I can see no realistic way of arranging for their payment. 40. is much more difficult. I have postulated the worst case le the HKC would raise objections, but for all I know they may be prepared to turn a blind eye to the practice provided it is limited to one or two refugees a week. The staff of HQCHFHK are reluctant to approach the KG direct over this in case it results in an avoidable confrontation, at this delicate juncture. I would be grateful therefore if Sec (0)(C) would take informal soundings of FCO/HKD to see what the likely reaction would be if this were put formally to the

HKG.

6. For what it's worth the personal view I formed, and passed to those concerned at the HQ, was that while I had every sympathy and understood the reasons for bringing the refugees to BMH, the practice was far too contentious politically and should cease.

7.

I would welcome your views.

Whil

VY S ASH

led F&S

2

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