TNAG-1786-FCO40-2546-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-refugees-closed-camp-policy-1988 — Page 8

For decision

CONFIDENTIAL

on 6 September 1988

HKD 243/4

22 SEPS

53

XCC (88)126 27

Copy No..

MEMORANDUM FOR EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

LIBERALISATION OF CLOSED CENTRES FOR

VIETNAMESE REFUGEES

Mr Huan

~

Mr lent 1/4

APA

THE PROBLEM

Intersky, parhully he Problems

As part of the package of measures announced on '16 June concerning the new policy on refugee status, it was agreed that a gradual liberalisation of the closed centres for refugees would commence during the first half of 1989. It has become apparent that an earlier desirable both to relieve the tensions caused by overcrowding in the centres and as part of a general understanding with the

UNHCR.

noho at

start on liberalisation is

is Pira 12.

RECOMMENDATION AND ADVICE SOUGHT

2

We recommend that

(a) the progressive liberalisation of the closed centres for refugees commence immediately;

(b)

(c)

(d)

the full liberalisation of the Tuen Mun and Sham Shui Po centres be completed within six months;

the liberalisation of the San Yick centre be commenced immediately and be taken as far as the constraints composed by the building allow;

plans be made to move the residents of the Cape Collinson centre to more suitable accommodation but that the initial steps towards liberalisation be taken in situ.

BACKGROUND AND ARGUMENT

3

On 24 May Members considered memorandum XCS (88) 10 which, contained inter alia a proposal

inter alia a proposal on the liberalisation of the closed refugee camps. Subsequently, an announcement was made explaining that the progressive liberalisation of these

leading towards camps,

status under

under the responsibility of the UNHCR, would commence during the first

centre open

CONFIDENTIAL