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PTZABR(3)
CONFIDENTIAL
Background
1.
Emigration is becoming an increasingly important issue in Hong
Kong, and a cause of major concern in banks and other financial
enterprises in the territory. The Governor acknowledged at a press conference last month that emigration is a problem. There is no clear cut evidence available, but the following picture has
emerged:
(a) the Hong Kong Government do not keep data on emigration, but
from available information the net outflow from Hong Kong was
about 20,000 a year between 1980 and 1984. In the last three
years the figures have been roughly:
1985
11,000
1986
13,500
1987
27,000
Indications are that the 1988 figure will continue at least at
the 1987 level.
(b) there is some evidence that an increasing number of those
leaving are from the professional/middle management area. The financial sector is particularly hard hit.
(c) there are no reliable data on those who subsequently return to
Hong Kong. Some people assert that only 10-20% return.
2. The Hong Kong Government have set up a task force to examine
the problem. The Governor has ruled out taking direct measures to
stop people leaving: the Hong Kong Government will continue to work
to make Hong Kong an attractive place to stay in or to return to, and will make every effort to train additional people to fill any
gaps. Other measures which have yet to be considered could include
establishing centres in major emigration destinations to facilitate return to Hong Kong, and addressing concerns that people returning may have about the education arrangements for their children in
Hong Kong.
3.
It is clear that the increase in numbers leaving Hong Kong has much to do with the more liberal immigration regimes introduced by
CONFIDENTIAL