TNAG-1908-FCO40-2712-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-refugees-voluntary-and-mandatory-repat-1989 — Page 121

CONFIDENTIAL

3.

INFORMING INTERESTED PARTIES

Need to inform in advance those likely to be helpful and supportive. Need to inform US/UNHCR in such a way as to minimise damage to our relations. Others should not require advance notice.

Complication in time difference.

Operation planned for following

timing:

Hong Kong Time

London Time

Washington Time

0500

2100) (previous 1600)

Depart HK

0730

2330) day)

1830) (previous

Arrive Hanoi

0900

0100

2000)

day)

Depart Hanoi

1125

0325

2225)

Arrive HK

(1) US

Inform in Washington and Hong Kong as late before the event as possible, eg 1500 local in Washington.

(2) THOSE WHO WILL BE SUPPORTIVE:

AUSTRALIA

Inform in Canberra on day before, to give them time to prepare a supportive statement 0900 local before.

ASEAN COUNTRIES/JAPAN

Inform in Capitals as soon after the event as possible - midday

local.

PTAAOH( 4 )

CONFIDENTIAL