TNAG-1786-FCO40-2546-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-refugees-closed-camp-policy-1988 — Page 109

MAR 29 ́88 11:55 TIB(OOU) HK GOVT

ACTION

In summary, a list of immediate action that can practically be taken to improve the lives and prospects of the Vietnamese within the framework of Hong Kong's closed camp policy, while working towards a longer term solution.

INTERNATIONAL ACTION

Through legislative action and press coverage, bring pressure to bear on the governments of resettlement countries to reopen and maintain constructive talks with Hanol.

Make national resettlement committees more accountable; regularise interview and resettlement procedures. Ask that committees take into account languge and vocational qualifications, and character references from teachers and welfare workers.

Press all governments to offer some places to UNHCR-nominated retunees who hava no personai sponsorship.

Encourage govemments and local charities to sponsor qualified individuals to work in

the camps.

BRITISH ACTION

Britian should take an active and voacal lead in all international action, and ensure that its activity focuses on refugees from Hong Kong camps, not from elsewhere.

Parliamentary questions, letters to members of parliament and press coverage would all contribute to achieving these aims.

The British government should note that by being seen to abdicate its duty to the refugees in the colony's closed camps, it lays itself open to accusations of abandoning Hong Kong in the run up to 1997.

HONG KONG ACTION

Ensure that all educational and vocational schemes are formally accredited and participation is documented.

Allow for more contact with the world outside the camps, encouraging school visits, cultural outings etc that would increase the relevance of cultural orientation programmes.

Encourage local business to contract piecework to the camps. Allow refugees to accept a reasonable minimum wage, and use it to buy food.

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Allow refugees to cook and eat in organised groups of around 20 people, fostering a sense of community and mutual responsibility.

Create work teams to do construction and maintenance work within the camps. Allow those with special skills to excercise them at every opportunity.

A final thought from Legisalative Councilor Martin Lee. "I always feel we should do more for the Vietnamese refugees. After all, in 10 years time we may find ourselves in that little boat."

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