TNAG-1750-FCO40-2470-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-debates-1988 — Page 66

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7. Adding repatriation to the mechanisms of ODP and resettlement is a logical extension to achieving a durable solution to the problem of Vietnamese boat people. reaching acceptable and agreed arrangements for repatriation will be difficult and slow. Both for our own consciences and to meet inevitable public criticism we must ensure that

This will reasonable safeguarüs are in place for returnees. not be easy. In addition Vietnam's parlous economic circumstances encourage migration and the Vietnamese Government profits from the remittances sent back by resettled refugees. Even if Vietnam can be persuaded to face its responsibilities and accept the monitored return of migrants, it is likely to demand international financial assistance as the price for agreeing to do so.

Its

It will 8. Nevertheless, the policy should be pursued. help to take the pressure off first asylum countries. implementation would send a clear signal to potential economic migrants that resettlement will not necessarily follow emigration. It would also meet Hong Kong's objectives, thereby removing a problem from UK/Hong Kong relations.

9. The following action is in hand:

(a) The ICG has asked the UNHCR to approach Vietnam to seek improved legal departure mechanisms, a renewed commitment to the moratorium on organised illegal departures from Vietnam and an increased willingness to allow voluntary repatriation.

(b) Following the Geneva ICG Meeting we are encouraging the UNHCR to make an early approach and to include the question

We also of screening and repatriation in his contacts. intend ourselves to support him in a bilateral approach to the Vietnamese at the appropriate time.

(c) We will be seeking the views of certain ASEAN countries and encouraging them to join the UNHCR and ICG countries in bringing pressure on Vietnam.

(d) We are briefing Lord Glenarthur to raise the matter with the Soviet Chargé when he calls on 26 October to encourage the Russians to pressure the Vietnamese to take a more responsible attitude.

In

(e) The ICG have asked the UNHCR to prepare a paper outlining possibilities for multilateral assistance. considering this we will need to ensure that such assistance does not unnerve ASEAN or send false signals of encouragement to Vietnam.

MCOABX

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