XCC(78)94
Admission Policy
22 -
The question of admission policy (paragraph 4(c) of memorandum XCC(78)41) has not been considered in detail since under the proposed new arrangements the ESF will be free to decide its own policy in this matter. Since parity of subsidy will be strictly observed the Government will have no special interest in restricting the number of children educated in English-speaking schools. On the other hand, the ESF will be required to give an undertaking to continue to provide sufficient places for English- speaking children for whom no suitable alternative educational facilities are available in Hong Kong.
Application to Anglo-Chinese schools
23
If the arrangements proposed in this paper are approved and, on the basis of actual experience, work satisfactorily, there appears to be no reason why the general principles embodied in them should not be extended to any Anglo-Chinese secondary and primary schools which are interested. In such cases it would not of course be ncessary to make the special arrangements related to quarters for expatriate teachers or to base calculations on 85% enrolment.
Consultation
24
As indicated in paragraph 3 the proposals in this memorandum have been discussed in confidence with the officers of the ESF, who have stated that they are generally acceptable to them, subject to confirmation by the Executive Committee and the Foundation as a whole. In addition, if Honourable Members approve the recommendations in this paper in principle it will also be necessary to consult the Joint Council of Parent-Teachers Associations and the Government teachers affected before a final decision is taken.
Public Relations
25
The proposals in this paper will directly affect a small, but influential and often vociferous section of the community. The introduction of the new arrangements which in- volve considerable fee increases is likely to arouse strong oppo- sition, however much the situation is explained on the lines suggested in paragraph 20. It should be noted that although the proposals for improved standards at the cost of increased fees originated from the Parent-Teachers Associations, the present proposals provide for increased fees without any consequent im- provements in standards. Any such improvements will come at
CONFIDENTIAL