ALAABD ( 2 )
WHAT MORE CAN BE DONE TO HELP HONG KONG WITH VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE
PROBLEM?
We are helping Hong Kong in every way we can:
(a) since late last year have committed over £12 million towards cost of dealing with the boat people problem, including
more than £2 million to UNHCR's programme in Hong Kong and its
reintegration assistance programme for volunteers returning to Vietnam, £6 million to meet the capital costs of a new refugee
centre at Pillar Point and £4.5 million for emergency
accommodation for new arrivals;
15m
no RAI
(b) in February to take a further 1,000 refugees from Hong Kong
over next 2-3 years. I announced at Geneva Conference that we
would also take another 1,000.
(c) will be holding urgent discussions with Vietnamese to ensure that comprehensive repatriation programme is promtly put
in hand;
(d) Geneva Conference provides basis for comprehensive solution to problem. But this will take time: Arl
Jeet up
ما
HOW WOULD HMG REACT IF HONG KONG GOVERNMENT ENDED POLICY OF FIRST
ASYLUM?
Situation in Hong Kong is desperate. We are doing all we can to help alleviate pressure on Hong Kong.
But if situation continues to deteriorate cannot rule out
drastic action. May be obliged to suspend first asylum policy.
WHAT WOULD ENDING FIRST ASYLUM MEAN?
We have not reached that point and I hope we do not get to it.
[But we would not let people drown]
But
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