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Wednesday, March 29, 1972
TYPE OF MANPOWER REQUIRED BY GOVERNMENT SHORT IN SUPPLY
Outbid By Private Organisations In Both Salaries And Fringe Benefits
The Colonial Secretary said today that many of the qualities,
qualifications and types of experience required by the Government was short
in supply both locally and overseas.
He was replying in the Legislative Council to questions on the large
number of vacancies in the Public Service raised by the Hon. Wilson Wang on
March 16.
"In consequence, outside organisations are often prepared to outbid
the Government in both salaries and fringe benefits," he added.
He welcomed Mr. Wang's suggestions for improvement in the recruitment
and training methods, but would not have him think that the present methods of
"fishing" were comparable to those of "old man Keung", who used neither hook
nor bait.
"We do not, as my Honourable Friend seems to imply, rely solely on
advertisements."
But unless the work was rewarding, the prospects good, and salaries and
conditions of service in line with the going rate, then the fish "would not
bite," he said.
He pointed out to Members that the Government made energetic and
continuous attempts to encourage local candidates to join the Civil Service.
Talks were given at the Universities at regular intervals and in the
schools; the Government took an active part in Careers Weeke and Workshops
organised by both Universities; lectures were given by senior officers whenever
possible, he added.
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