TNAG-1754-FCO40-2474-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-debates-1988 — Page 172

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New policy consistent with international covenants on political and human rights?

4.

We are satisfied that the changes introduced by the new policy

are not inconsistent with our obligations under the covenants.

5.

Reactions of other countries to the new policy

We have explained the new policy to the resettlement countries,

other places of first asylum, and UNHCR. All understand the reasons

for the new policy, and many have expressed support for it.

6. UNHCR's reactions to the new policy?

We have been in close contact with UNHCR in Hong Kong, Geneva

and London on the situation in Hong Kong and the need to take early

measures. UNHCR have indicated that they wish to work together

with the Hong Kong and British Governments on the new arrangements,

with the objective of ensuring that the needs of genuine refugees

are met. Naturally they have expressed concern over the

arrangements for those who are not refugees and we have provided

reassurance on these. We look forward to implementing the new

policy with UNHCR's full co-operation.

7.

Screening

Screening of individual boat people will be carried out by the

Hong Kong Government under UNHCR guidelines to establish whether new

arrivals meet the criteria for refugee status. UNHCR have been

invited to observe the screening process in action and will have the opportunity to be involved in appeals.

We are confident that these arrangements will ensure that refugees are properly distinguished from those who do not meet standard refugee criteria.

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