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Employment
Policy
The Government's basic labour policy is to ensure that there is a stable, well- trained and well-motivated workforce to support economic growth, and that Hong Kong maintains a level of labour standards broadly comparable to those of its neighbouring countries with similar economic development and socio-cultural backgrounds. To this end, we are committed to -
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providing well-trained personnel through the courses offered by our tertiary institutions and the Vocational Training Council;
promoting the health, welfare and safety of the working population;
promoting harmonious labour relations; and
safeguarding the rights and benefits of employees.
To achieve these policy objectives involves taking account of the intricate and dynamic combinations of interests between the vast number of employers and employees and striking a balance in the light of the changing economic situations and circumstances, and expectations of our community. It is not an easy task. Over the years, the step by step approach we have taken on labour and employment issues has served Hong Kong well. In the pursuit of our policy objectives, we will continue with this approach in the best interests of the public.
Employment/Importation of Labour
and
Members have commented on the employment situation in Hong Kong and questions have been raised on the reliability of our employment statistics. These statistics are collected by the Census and Statistics Department through the General Household Survey. The concepts and definitions used in surveys to measure
follow underemployment
the closely employment,
unemployment
The statistics are recommendations of the International Labour Organisation. scientifically obtained and are reliable for comparison and projection purposes. Nevertheless, we recognise the need for better coverage and more indepth, detailed analysis of the employment statistics and will discuss the feasibility of further improvement with the Census and Statistics Department.