TNAG-1794-FCO40-2554-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-refugees-repatriation--including-Opera-1988 — Page 257

ROYABM

FOREIGN AFFAIRS DEBATE: 30 JUNE 1988: SUMMING UP HKD 24318

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VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE IN HONG KONG

New policy

The purpose of the new policy is to distinguish genuine refugees

from those arrivals whose motivation for leaving Vietnam is

essentially a desire for a better life, who do not meet the standard

criteria for refugees, and whose prospects of resettlement in the

west are non-existent.

Our commitment to preserving access to resettlement of genuine

refugees is unchanged.

Those who are found not to be refugees will be detained pending

their eventual return to Vietnam, subject to satisfactory assurances

for their treatment on return.

Screening of arrivals will be carried out in accordance with

UNHCR guidelines. UNHCR will be able to monitor the screening.

Will UK make new resettlement commitment?

We are currently considering all aspects of the problem

including resettlement. In the meantime, our existing resettlement programme is continuing.

Resettlement elsewhere?

We will continue to urge all resettlement countries to maintain

or increase their levels of offtake.

Reaction of others to the new policy?

We have explained the new policy to resettlement countries and

UNHCR. All understand the reasons for the new policy. Many have been supportive.