REPATRIATION
[UNHCR involvement?]
Close consultation with UNHCR on all aspects of the new policy.
Screening is on basis of established international criteria. Meets UNHCR requirements. UNHCR can monitor screening, assist in appeals,
have access to all boat people.
[Forcible returns to Vietnam]
We are not talking about compulsion at this stage. But are
making it very clear that only viable option for non-refugees is to
resume their lives in their own country. Must be right to work for
acceptable arrangements for this.
[Can Vietnam's assurances be accepted?]
Would not send any boat people back to Vietnam if we were not
satisfied about the treatment they would receive there. Vietnam's
assurances of no prosecution, persecution or punishment of returnees
are included in Vietnamese/UNCHR Memorandum of Understanding on
repatriation.
CONDITIONS IN CAMPS
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Hong Kong Government now accommodate 25,000 boat people,
including over 18,000 arrivals in 1988, safely and with adequate
provisions of food and medical facilitities. A major strain on
their resources: but they have coped magnificently.
[conditions in San Yick factory building] Hong Kong Government
are planning to move the residents from this building as soon as
possible. About 1,000 people have already been moved. It is
envisaged that all will be rehouses by early 1989.
[conditions for "refugees"] Hong Kong Government are bringing
forward their programme to liberalise conditions for those accorded
refugee status. These are being given access to work and education
to prepare them for eventual resettlement. In due course UNHCR will
oversee the management of the "refugee" centres.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.