(iii) the banning of tests and examinations for entry to
Primary 1 and the decision to relax the Green Paper's proposal to ban interviews are likely to be accorded a mixed reception. Some will be relieved at the concession towards existing practice but others will be critical of what they will claim to be the Government's timidity;
(iv)
(v)
social workers may continue to claim that the minimum educational qualification for child care workers at Form III is too low and should be restored to Form V with 5 passes at Grade E. There is, however, no evidence to suggest that the present requirements have led to a deterioration in the standard of care;
the decision to limit the direct subvention of child care centres to 5% of the fees, but to introduce a modified fee assistance scheme may be criticised by some voluntary welfare agencies, but this may be counterbalanced by the decision to meet the rent of non-profit-making child care centres and kindergartens whether they are inside or outside public housing estates.
Publicity
26
Publicity should argue that in formulating the measures in the White Paper the Government has given proper consideration to all shades of public opinion including views expressed by professional and other interested bodies. Emphasis should be given to the modifications which the Government has made to the original Green Paper proposals in the light of public comment. It should be stressed that the White Paper represents a considerable step forward in terms of standards but that the Government intends to keep the whole area under regular review and to make further modifications as and when resources become available.
Financial Implications
27
Members will wish to note from Appendix 8 to the White Paper that the financial implications are considerable, rising from $144.9 million in 1982/83 to $208. 4 million in 1986/87.
G.S. 166
CONFIDENTIAL