TNAG-1748-FCO40-2467-Visit-by-Sir-Geoffrey-Howe--Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-a-1988 — Page 152

ARZADB (3)

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(iii) VIETNAMESE REFUGEES

HMG's views on Hong Kong changing its policy on Vietnamese Refugees

Understand why OMELCO and the Hong Kong Government feel they

need to review the existing policy and to consider whether it is

still appropriate to treat all arrivals from Vietnam automatically

as refugees. This is one of the matters I have been discussing with the Hong Kong Government. I will obviously need to report to

colleagues on my return to London.

Have listened carefully to views expressed during my visit.

Aware of strength of feeling on all sides.

Important that all factors should be carefully weighed. easy solution to this complex and sensitive humanitarian issue.

Will HMG let Hong Kong decide its own Vietnamese Refugee policy

ΝΟ

Naturally this is a matter on which the two governments wish

to have the closest consultations. Always ready to consider proposals from Hong Kong Government. Important international and diplomatic dimension, where we have a direct part to play.

Any legal requirement for Hong Kong to continue to accept boat

people as refugees?

Essentially a humanitarian issue. Do not believe there is any legal requirement on Hong Kong, but the absense of such a requirement does not absolve anyone from moral and humanitarian

obligations.

Will HMG help Hong Kong in ending Hong Kong's obligations as part of

first asylum?

While policy is under review it would be premature to speculate about this. But must not oversimplify the issue: the problem is humanitarian.

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