1A
Proficiency in English is chosen because it is valuable both to Hong Kong, where the language of business is primarily English, and in the UK should circumstances be such that a beneficiary under the Scheme actually settles in the
The standard set for proficiency (scoring maximum points) is that of a pass in English in the School Certificate Examination. Those who are unable to reach this standard, but who nonetheless can demonstrate a basic knowledge of spoken English sufficient to enable him to survive in an English-speaking environment, will be awarded half the maximum
points.
18
British links is chosen in recognition of the British citizenship being granted to successful applicants. Factors for which points may be scored include residence, family, education and investment links with the UK; service under the Crown or in UK-designated organizations (e.g. British Trade commission); and service in British firms.
19
Public service in Hong Kong
merits particular recognition, in order to encourage those people active in participating in public or community service to stay in Hong this purpose, the Civil & Miscellaneous List will be used as a guide to the boards or committees and voluntary auxiliary services for which points may be scored.
Kong.
20
For
In addition to the above criteria, it is proposed to deduct 200 penalty points where an applicant is already in possession of another nationality. This is because persons in this category already have the assurance of right of abode outside Hong Kong. It is further proposed that about 100 places should be reserved in the General Allocation Scheme for those Hong Kong residents who are very well known locally and internationally
having invested extensively and employed a large number of people in Hong Kong, but who for one reason or another would not apply or be qualified (largely because of their age) under the Scheme. Yet their emigration from Hong Kong is likely to cause severe adverse effect on business and local confidence. Every effort should be made to retain them in Hong Kong. On the personal recommendation of the Governor in each case this very small number of local residents will be granted British citizenship by the Home Secretary.
DISCIPLINED SERVICES SCHEME
21
It has been agreed with HMG that special provision should be made for members of the disciplined services, who perform the critical function of maintaining law and order in Hong Kong and who are in a particularly vulnerable position during the transition of Government through 1997. Their requirement for assurances could not be adequately reflected by emigration figures, although many of them are likely to resign from the disciplined services and take up civilian jobs as 1997 draws near, if no specific assurances are given them. Hence a separate Disciplined Services Scheme.
SECRET