We believe the most humane solution would be their orderly and monitored return in safety and dignity, under the good offices of
UNHCR.
Defensive Points
Sending Vietnamese Boat People back to Vietnam contrary to Human Rights
Recognise the fundamental right of people to leave their country if they chose to do so. But unless they are refugees there is no obligation on the part of other countries to accept them.
It was agreed at Geneva that all Vietnamese who were determined by screening not to be refugees should return to their country of origin.
No question of any boat people being returned to Vietnam without assurances from Vietnamese that they will not be persecuted or punished for having left and without credible monitoring
arrangements.
Amnesty Report on Vietnamese Boat People
We have received a copy of Amnesty Report and are studying it carefully. Several of the incidents mentioned in the Report have been investigated by the Government of Hong Kong and the criticisms have not been accepted.
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We are confident that the screening procedure in its entirety is fair and thorough and that genuine refugees will not be returned to Vietnam. The procedure has been evolved in close consultation with UNHCR and we will continue to work with them to remedy any shortcomings that may become apparent.
Amnesty Report: Conditions in Camps
We note the Report's conclusion that conditions in detention centres are not cruel, inhumane, or degrading, although there is
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