individual fails to satisfy good character checks.
In preparing recommendations, and overseeing selection scheme, Governor will have assistance of Steering Group. This intended
to be high level group, which would work closely with Independent
Commission Against Corruption. There is a question whether UK should be represented on Steering Group. Will obviously be an expectation that we should monitor in some degree arrangements
for award of British citizenship, but would want to guard against too great an involvement in operation of selection process.
Final decision awaiting further details from Hong Kong on
expected membership and formal role of Steering Group.
Key Points
General Allocation Scheme
36,400 available places to be decided among occupational groups
by formula which takes account of emigration rates and difficulty
of replacement. Although emigration rates can be objectively
measured with reasonable accuracy, inevitably something
subjective about measure of replaceability. Without massive programme of research, HKG have sought to take it into account by broad assessment of time taken to train for particular
Occupations. Useful, albeit unsophisticated.
HKG's proposals for allocation between occupational categories
set out in Annex C. Home Secretary concerned about number of
places proposed for five categories at end of list, notwithstanding that it will be the most valuable and skilled in
each category who will qualify under points system. Accept HKG's
argument that unwise to rule these groups out. [Nevertheless,
suggest further adjustment to ensure still more places go to Occupational groups who are emigrating most.]
Within each category, points to be awarded on range of factors.
Most important: age (to target 30-40 year olds, who are emigrating most), education and experience. British links, knowledge of English, and service to community also count. Dual