Government Solves Problem Of Refugees In Hong Kong

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29352, 3 November 1960, Page 21

Government Solves Problem Of Refugees In Hong Kong

The refugee problem in Hong Kong was being mastered by direct aid from the Government and other organisations and by the Government stopping more refugees from entering the colony, said the Rev. C. R. Sprackett. Mr Sprackett has just returned from a term as a fraternal worker for the National Council of Churches in Hong Kong. Hong Koqg had only limited space and as up to a few months ago refugees from China were arriving at the rate of 300 a day, the Government had to act to stop more arriving, he said. Case-work Centre Mr Sprackett worked for the Presbyterian case-work centre which looked after 2400 Manriarinspeaking Chinese refugees from Northern China. The centre had a six-point programme which aimed at eventual rehabilitation for the refugees. “We gave material assistance such as money, food and clothing but undoubtedly the best gift to a refugee is a job,” he said. New Dignity Once refugees found employment they took on a new dignity, and had pride in themselves and their families. To help them find jobs, sewing machines, hawker’s licences and simple tools were provided Examples of material aid given the refugees were cash grants for education fees and rent, and sup-

plies of food and clothing. Medical treatment and supplies were also given and, where possible, accommodation was arranged. "The latter was a pressing problem but the Govexnment is facing up to it by providing multi-storey flats,” said Mr Sprackett.