TNAG-1797-FCO40-2557-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-refugees-repatriation--including-Opera-1988 — Page 283

PTAAFS

CPA 34th CONFERENCE: CANBERRA

CONFIDENTIAL

VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE IN HONG KONG

HKD 243/8

нко

REC

13 SEP 1988

802

Line to Take (If asked)

1.

Fully behind Hong Kong Government's new policy. Genuine refugees will continue to have access to resettlement. Screening is taking place on basis of internationally recognised criteria.

2.

(Repatriation)

Welcome Vietnam's willingness to accept

voluntary returnees hopeful that these will soon be repatriated. But must press for return of all non-refugees. Our talks with

Vietnam are continuing.

3. (Alleged ill-treatment at Hei Ling Chau) decision to set up independent inquiry.

interest to establish the truth.

Support Governor's Clearly in everybody's

4. (Conditions in the Camps: San Yick) Hong Kong Government are conscious of concerns being expressed and are introducing

improvements.

5.

(Additional resettlement in the UK) Our resettlement effort is continuing. We are currently considering all aspects of the problem, including additional resettlement. Hope that other resettlement countries will be ready to increase their offtake from

Hong Kong.

CONFIDENTIAL