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C2510
CONFIDENTIAL
MKD 243/18
VERY
OCTE
am
From: PS/Lord Glenarthur
Date: 25 October 1988
cc:
Private Secretary
PS/Mr Eggar PS/PUS
Mr Gillmore
Mr McLaren
Mr Cooper, FED
(880
Mr Burns, News Dept
Mr Hum, Hong Kong Department
Hym,
LORD GLENARTHUR'S MEETING WITH THE GOVERNOR OF HONG KONG
1.
Lord Glenarthur was grateful for the briefing pack you provided for Sir D Wilson's visit. He had a productive 45 minutes with the Governor on 24 October. Mr McLaren and you were also present.
Vietnamese Boat People
2.
The
The Governor explained the current mood in Hong Kong. Hong Kong Government (HKG) were most grateful for the talks with the Vietnamese; it was important that this led soon to the actual return of boat people to Vietnam. The drop-off in arrivals was also welcome, but the reasons for it were uncertain. Despite these positive developments, widespread irritation remained at the "liberal" policy of HKG. There was a worrying increase in racist attitudes. Later in the conversation the Governor recounted the problems posed by the Hei Ling Chau Report; the disciplinary measures he had ordered had caused morale problems among the staff.
3. Overall, the boat people remain a huge political and management problem. A high priority now would be the push for the resettlement of those eligible. The UK must take a lead. Lord Glenarthur explained that we had put a suitable package to the Home Secretary and were awaiting a response. You comfirmed that there was a problem of reception capacity, which had been allowed to dwindle during periods of low resettlement. It was agreed that publicity would continue to be important. If one thousand new settlement places could be agreed, this should be announced and followed up with press interviews both here and in Hong Kong. This formula had worked well for the helpful package of measures for Hong Kong travellers.
CONFIDENTIAL
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