CONFIDENTIAL
The UNHCR reaction is awkward. But I am sure that we cannot afford to delay introducing the new policy while UNHCR pursue their contacts (which are most unlikely to be fruitful) with the Vietnamese. Quite apart from the favourable weather conditions, the Secretary of State's public remarks in Hong Kong will add fuel to the rumours about an impending change of policy in Hong Kong which have been circulating in Vietnam for some time. More can be expected to leave to beat an anticipated deadline. The sooner the door is closed the better.
2. Little emphasis was placed on the resettlement aspect in the Secretary of Satte's discussions in Hong Kong. I have no doubt that this was because attention was focussed on the need for a change in the current practice of accepting all boat people as refugees. Once a new policy has been announced, resettlement will come to the fore again and the UK will be expected to give a lead. I therefore agree with Mr Hum that it would be right for the Secretary of State to put down a marker with his colleagues that a new commitment will need to be considered.
2 June 1988
Infogh
RJT McLaren
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