CONFIDENTIAL
people arriving in Hong Kong should not automatically be given the status of refugees. Experience over the years has proved the existing policy ineffective as a deterrent against the influx of Vietnamese refugees". The Hong Kong Government are considering how
to reply.
5. There is every likelihood that the numbers reaching Hong Kong will continue to increase: the tougher policies already introduced by other countries in the region, the inevitable rumours of a possible change of policy in Hong Kong, and the favourable weather conditions at this time of year are all very likely to contribute to a surge in the coming weeks. Against this background, and in the face of local political pressures, it is becoming increasingly clear that the present policy is no longer tenable.
Latest Hong Kong Government thinking: a possible timetable for
action
B
C
6. I attach Hong Kong telno 1709 setting out the Governor's timetable for the possible introduction of a new policy, which would (on second thoughts) be known as "Operation Watchman". The Governor's target date of mid-June is a tight one, but if there is to be a change it is essential that it should be introduced quickly so as to discourage a flood of last minute arrivals trying to beat the deadline. A mid-June target date would also enable the Secretary of State to see and discuss the problem for himself in Hong Kong before initiating the final round of consultations with Ministerial colleagues on his return.
7.
At our urging the Hong Kong Government have also been giving further detailed thought to the practical implications of the new policy. I attach Hong Kong telno 1759 which summarises the present state of their thinking. In general it is along acceptable lines. The Governor is very conscious of both the presentational difficulties and the practical risks of a new policy: but he sees
alternative.
CONFIDENTIAL
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