TNAG-1894-FCO40-2688-Visit-by-Francis-Maude--Minister-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Co-1989 — Page 53

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the British Government.

CONFIDENTIAL

We are working with US Government to urge UNHCR to put more

effort and resources into counselling those screened out about the options open to them. Hope this will result in more people

deciding to return to Vietnam.

5. UK to further increase intake of Vietnamese boat people?

Over 13,000 Vietnamese refugees have been resettled in Britain

since 1975.

We have now undertaken to accept 2,000 more refugees from Hong Kong over the next 3 years. Represents doubling of previous rate

of intake.

6.

UK to offer more financial assistance to Hong Kong?

Helping Hong Kong to shoulder burden both politically and financially.

Since end of last year HMG has pledged over £17 million

(HK$ 200 million) towards handling this problem.

7.

Heightened local feelings over Vietnamese boat people issue?

Well aware that situation is extremely difficult for people of

Hong Kong. Clearly not a situation that can remain unchanged for

ever.

8. Policy of first asylum should be scrapped

Very much hope it will not come to that. Serious risk of alienating international support.

Object of our policy is to produce results which will ensure that

situation in Hong Kong remains under control.

CONFIDENTIAL