4
These meetings lasted in total nearly 40 hours. Despite this intensive consultation, there appears to have been no progress towards an agreement. The Association broke off negotiations on 22 July, and began their campaign of seeking support in Britain. They have not asked for a further meeting with the Hong Kong Government representatives. In the meantime, the shorthand and audio typists concerned appear to be working normally, although they have not formally accepted the new arrangement. A work to rule introduced by the Association in March this year attracted little support, and was finally called off in July.
8. In addition to the meetings, the Association have also on several occasions presented their case in writing, and have received detailed replies covering all the points that have
been raised.
FUTURE ACTION
9. Mr J A B Stewart, the Head of Hong Kong and General Department in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, will be visiting Hong Kong from 12-20 October, during which time he will discuss the case with the Hong Kong Civil Service Department. He will also be prepared, if required, to meet representatives of the Association.
HONG KONG AND GENERAL DEPARTMENT
FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE