TNAG-1794-FCO40-2554-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-refugees-repatriation--including-Opera-1988 — Page 272

ROYABL (4)

Defensive

CONFIDENTIAL

(£) Introduction of new policy premature

Calls for tougher

Rapidly deteriorating situation in Hong Kong. action from all sides in Hong Kong. Could not delay new policy, while numbers awaiting non-existent resettlement rocketted.

Do not believe new policy will hinder UNHCR negotiations with Vietnam. Becomes part of increasing international pressure on Vietnam to take necessary actions to curb outflows and accept return

of non-refugees.

(g) Change wording on warning notices?

HKG wish to maintain maximum deterrent effect of new policy. Wording specifically designed to deter economic migrants, not genuine refugees. Have already amended wording following consultation with UNHCR. Must examine how notice is implemented. In practice, all arrivals since 16 June have chosen to land in Hong

Kong.

(h)

Liberalise existing centres?

HKG intend to liberalise over 6-12 months

(a)

so as not to dilute the deterrent effect of the new policy by laying it open to misinterpretation as an amnesty;

(b) because the physical conditions and location of the

temporary closed centres do not permit them to be opened up in situ ;

(c) because many of the refugees will need time and help to

CONFIDENTIAL