(K) HMOCS
CONFIDENTIAL
raises
29. The draft agreement provides satisfactorily for continuity of
service by serving officers in the public service in Hong Kong on
terms and conditions, including pay and pensions, no less favourable
than before 1 July 1997. These provisions apply to members of Her
Majesty's Overseas Civil Service (HMOCS) serving in Hong Kong as
well as to other civil servants. The resumption of sovereignty over
Hong Kong by the People's Republic of China misses similar issues in
respect of HMOCS as independence has in other dependent territories.
It is not possible, however, to define now, twelve and a half years in advance of constitutional change, all the arrangements which will
apply to members of HMOCS serving in Hong Kong and to the payment of
their pensions by the Hong Kong SAR Government after 1 July 1997. I
can assure you however that HMG have very much in mind the concerns
of HMOCS officers.
CONFIDENTIAL