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far as possible, members of classes (1) and (2) above could return to this country if suitable work for them cannot be found elsewhere. If taken at any time not later than six months after end of war passages would be paid from Hong Kong funds in all cases where the right to a return passage was given by terms of employment.
4. Dependants of officers who are prisoners may, So long as salary is payable in respect of officer himself, receive allowance within maximum of half salary chargeable eventually to officer's salary.
Paragraph 1(b). As regards Chinese Hong Kong officials who have escaped, answer to your question is as follows:-
1. Officers holding appointments on permanent pensionable establishment of Hong Kong Government. These appointments will fall to be terminated on abolition of office and Secretary of State for Colonies would be grateful if you could inform any such officers that he regrets that there is no alternative to this step. If names are telegraphed claims to superannuation awards will be considered. It is hoped that such officers will be able to obtain employment in China. We should be prepared to continue salary for a short interim period as in the case of United Kingdom pensionable officials.
2. Officers in posts not on the permanent establishment. Continuing salary payments are not justified beyond any period of notice to which the officer is entitled. This applies generally to locally recruited non-pensionable staff including British.
3. Assistance necessary for relief should be given to any Chinese officers of Hong Kong Government, whether claiming to be pensionable or not. If assistance is given from funds of whatever organisation is set up an equivalent sum will be made available from Hong Kong or United Kingdom funds.
Grateful if you would report scale of such expenditure likely to be involved for Hong Kong Government officers