TNAG-1843-FCO40-2618-House-of-Commons-Select-Committee-on-Foreign-Affairs-enquiry-1989 — Page 138

ARPARQ (8)

6.

Contacts with the Chinese

PROBLEM SOLVED BY 1997?

Origin of the problem lies in Vietnam and beyond our control. Our firm intention to ensure that Vietnamese boat people problem in

Hong Kong should be resolved well before 1997. International Conference is best way forward.

IS 1997 A DEADLINE?

Aim is to resolve problem of boat

Have not set a deadline.

people as quickly as possible.

WHAT CONTACTS WITH THE CHINESE?

Have briefed Chinese Government an all aspects of problem. are naturally concerned. Like us they would like problem to be

resolved as soon as possible.

They

Have had some discussion in JLG on question of some Vietnamese Refugess in Hong Kong who might acquire right of abode after 1997.

China has important role to play too. Most boat people call in at points along the Chinese Coast on their way to Hong Kong. Have urged Chinese authorities to do all they can to encourage them not to proceed to Hong Kong.

STATUS OF BOAT PEOPLE AFTER 1997

[If necessary] Joint Declaration on future of Hong Kong provides for continuation after 30 June 1997 of Hong Kong's present social and legal systems. Any boat people then in Hong Kong should thus retain their current status.