TNAG-1748-FCO40-2467-Visit-by-Sir-Geoffrey-Howe--Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-a-1988 — Page 153

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Progress on negotiations about repatriation of Vietnamese refugees?

So far no indication of willingness of Vietnam to accept back

those who have left, other than on a very limited case by case

basis.

But will persist in our efforts, both bilaterally and in

international fora.

Any new initiatives for durable solutions?

Growing international consensus that long term solution to problem lies in creation of acceptable conditions in Vietnam to enable return to Vietnam of those who fail to meet criteria for

refugee status.

We are making slow but steady progress: see no scope for dramatic new initiatives, but steady pressure is effective.

Will HMG press for International Conference to solve problem?

Do not believe this would be helpful.

bogged over Cambodia issue.

Discussion would get

Further resettlement in UK?

My visit has brought home to me personally the severity of the situation following the greatly increased numbers of refugees arriving here in last few months.

[If pressed]. Will be discussing all aspects of problem with my colleagues on my return to London. Until we have done this,

cannot say more.

Continuing to do all we can to help Hong Kong, both through offtake of refugees for resettlement and by working together with international community for long term solution to problem.

Since 1975 have taken 20,000 Indo Chinese refugees, including

13,000 from Hong Kong.

UK to share Hong Kong's financial burden?

UK already makes a substantial contribution to UNHCR funds:

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