TNAG-1908-FCO40-2712-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-refugees-voluntary-and-mandatory-repat-1989 — Page 29

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There would

40

doubt he a good deal of domeche and vinterhakonial criticism, particulary it the screening was rough aut ready,

it would alunost certainly have to be

ar

9.

DSR 11C (Revised 5/87)

In my view, the most effective deterrent would be to

devise an alternative method of dealing with new arrivals

that would involve the rapid screening of each new boat

load and the quick return of those screened out. This

might be done on board ship, which would have the

advantage that the individuals concerned would not have

Moreover, to set foot on Hong Kong soil. However the feasibility

critically of such a scheme would to a large degree depend on the

eredibility of the screening arrangements and the

willingness of the Vietnamese authorities to cooperate.

would expect

very

On

I envisage a difficult negotiation with them about this.

However, even the news that we were working on such

a scheme might have a useful deterrent effect.

There

would certainly be a substantial price to pay. I intend

examine the practicalities further and to

to/put detailed proposals to you and colleagues as soon

as possible.

10.

A copy of this minute goes to OD (K) colleagues.

Х

pre-

تا

+Aid

Fual deasa.

[nual

by Sys Monday 11 Dec?