HC Deb 11 July 1979 vol 970 cc453-4
11. Mr. Goodlad

asked the Lord Privy Seal when he next proposes to meet the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Mr. Ridley

My hon. Friends the Ministers of State—the Members for Mid-Oxon (Mr. Hurd) and Blackpool, South (Mr. Blaker)—have recently met Mr. Hartling, and further meetings are planned by Ministers.

Mr. Goodlad

In anticipation of those meetings, can my hon. Friend tell the House whether there has been any response from the Government of Vietnam to the representations that have been made to them to desist from their present policy, which is barely distinguishable from genocide? Can he further say whether recent reports in the press that the Government intend to accept for permanent resettlement into this country no fewer than 10,000 refugees a year are true—as I am sure this House would wish—or whether it is intended to make such an announcement? Thirdly, what response has there been from other countries—such as Japan, which has shown very little inclination to take refugees—to be more responsive to their international responsibilities?

Mr. Ridley

The strongest possible representations have been made to the Government of Vietnam, but, instead of desisting, it appears that they are even increasing the export of their citizens in this cruel and barbarous way. The Government hope that the conference convened by the United Nations on 20 and 21 July will help greatly to find both finance and homes for the refugees. To that extent my right hon. Friends are considering the number that can be taken into this country, and a statement will be made in due course.

Mr. Ennals

Does the hon. Gentleman agree that this is probably one of the most serious refugee problems that the world has had to face since the 1930s? Will he go further on the attitude that the Government ought to take? Is he aware that many other Governments have announced what numbers they will take? Is he aware of the great pressure from voluntary organisations that there should be a more positive, humane and constructive attitude on behalf of the Government?

Mr. Ridley

I agree that this is one of the greatest refugee problems that there has ever been, although I am disappointed that the right hon. Gentleman did not see fit to condemn the reasons for its existence.

Mr. Ennals

I do.

Mr. Ridley

As I said earlier, the Government are considering the number of refugees that can be accepted into this country, and in due course a statement will be made.

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