11.
The interim committee had considered escalating action in the UK by publicity and parliamentary questions and other means including asking the English courts to rule on HMG ́s obligations. Things had not reached that stage yet.
The interim committee had also taken account of the divisive effect of pursuing the aims of HMOCS members publicly in Hong Kong. He said he believed that the UK team was preparing papers and, since the Treasury had become involved, it was clear that matters had reached a very advanced stage. It was important to get ministeral
decisions and HMG had taken the point.
12.
The Chairman said that the SCS had confirmed the genuine concern of the Governor on the matter.
13.
Mr. Jones proposed a motion, which after discussion, was adopted
unanimously
14.
"This Association urges the Hong Kong Government to press Her Majesty ́s Government to set out the arrangements for a General Compensation Scheme and sterling guarantees for pensions in an unequivocal and detailed statement to enable HMOCS officers serving in the Hong Kong Government to make decisions as regards the option under the New Pension Scheme in good time ahead of the 30 June 1992 deadline imposed upon them."
Mr. Steele said that he was quite pessimistic about quick progress. All things had to go to Ministers and there was a real problem for contract officers who had to decide before July whether to opt for the new pension scheme. He agreed with the sentiment of the motion and hoped that matters would be clarified sufficiently by June to enable officers to make informed choices on the new pension scheme.
15.
Some Members felt that HMG would use the general election as an excuse for delaying decisions on HMOCS Members concerns, and that the Association would be justified to ask for consultations in advance of the 30 June deadline for the New Pension Scheme.
16.
The meeting closed at 8 pm.
18 February 1992 (m6)