TNAG-2401-FCO40-3488-Vietnamese-migrants-Orderly-Repatriation-Programme-(ORP)-1992 — Page 34

GOVERMENT HOUSE HONG KONG.

FRI 12 JUN 92 11:18

CONFIDENTIAL #

16

-

PG.10

Q47

Is it not

A47

more

cost-effective

numbers by sea rather by air?

a

are returned

return

to return large

We are exploring all options to ensure that

returnees

to Vietnam in the most

cost-effective manner. However, we have developed

system of

air by

of which we are noW

confident, and which suits us well in operational terms. To return large numbers of returnees by sea would probably require large numbers of escorts who will be kept away from their existing duties, representing a significant drain on manpower.

048

What

is the

particular) on

state of world opinion (US in

the return of these asylum seekers

who have been in Hong Kong for such a long time?

A48 Under the CPA, to which USA is a party, those who

have been screened out must return to their country

of origin. Believe there is increasing support

world-wide for the need for non-refugees to return

home.

Q49 Position of NGOs?

A49

AS orderly return

proceeds in each camp, the need

upon

the

for a wide range of NGO services will cease and

these can be scaled down.

We hope NGOs will

continue to concentrate their efforts 28,000 unscreened asylum seekers still here. NGOS

continue to provide a wide range of essential

services in the camps and we are grateful for all

their hard work.