TNAG-1749-FCO40-2468-Visit-by-Sir-Geoffrey-Howe--Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-a-1988 — Page 109

WOLL

10.41 QUI RADIO TECH SERVICES.

FORBIGE SEC

J

HONG KONG PRESS CONFEREECH 31 MAY 1988

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QUESTION:

Sir Geoffrey, other countries in the region have tougher

measures to stop the influx of VR. Do you think the British Government. Bong Kong to adopt the same measures?

•

FORBIGI SECRETARY:

I have indicated the approach from what I have already said. The fact that other countries are themselves moving away from any view that those leaving Vietnam can be properly identified as political refugees is obviously an important factor.

BERNHARD

(CHINA MORNING POST):

Sir Geoffrey, how can Britain convince Vietnam to withdraw

from Kampuchea and welcome back the refugees when the West has

consistently refused to assist Vietnam, which is now facing a very great famine?

FORRIGE SECRETARY:

reasons:

The Vest has declined to offer aid to Vietnam for two

One, because of her persistence in the unlawful occupation of

Cambodia and two, bacause it is by no means clear that assistance to

Vietnam in the context of its present economic policy is likely to

achieve any good at all.

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