The new policy has been welcomed in Hong Kong. The reaction of the international community has on the whole been one of understanding and support. We hope that the new policy will stem the tide of economic migrants from Vietnam and deter them from making the dangerous journey by sea. We are doing everything possible to ensure that the deterrent message comes across clearly in Vietnam. At the same time we are intensifying our efforts, both directly and through UNHCR and others, to persuade the Vietnamese authorities to control illegal departures and to accept back those boat people who do not qualify as refugees.
We also remain very conscious of the plight of those refugees in Hong Kong who are awaiting resettlement. We are actively considering what more can be done for them: in the meantime our existing resettlement programme is continuing. was pleased to hear from your constituent of the success of those Vietnamese who have been resettled in Worthing.
I
Miss Strange expressed concern about the conditions in the closed centres for refugees. Having recently visited a closed centre myself, I can assure Miss Strange that the Hong Kong Government do their best to ensure that conditions in the centres are as humane as possible; medical facilities are good, food is wholesome and emphasis is placed on training and education. As part of the new policy, the Hong Kong Government intend over the next 6 to 12 months to liberalise the regime in the camps accommodating those accorded refugee status. But we do believe that the centres must provide an element of deterrence.
I hope that I have been able to reassure your constituent that strenuous efforts are being made to solve this sad problem. I am returning her letter.
Lime
THE LORD GLENARTHUR
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