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The spokesman pointed out that the easing of the labour market in recent months should be seen against a distinctly faster increase in overall labour supply, by 4.1% in the second quarter of 1995 over a year earlier. The corresponding growth in total employment was relatively slower than this, hence giving a higher unemployment rate. But the increase in total employment, at 2.7% in the second quarter over a year earlier, was still notable and signified that there was quite clearly an on-going demand for labour within the local economy.
During the period April - June 1995, the number of unemployed persons was estimated at 90,600. Of this, 6,500 were first-time job-seekers. The number of underemployed persons was estimated at 65,200.
The unemployment and underemployment statistics were obtained from a continuous General Household Survey conducted by the Census and Statistics Department. The survey for April - June 1995 covered a quarterly sample of some 12,700 households or 43,600 persons, selected scientifically to represent the land- based civilian non-institutional population in Hong Kong. Relevant data were obtained from the survey by interviewing each individual member aged 15 or over in the households sampled. In the survey, the definitions used in measuring unemployment and underemployment follow closely those recommended by the International Labour Organisation.
Detailed analysis of labour force characteristics is given in the report on the General Household Survey which is published four times a year. The next report covering the quarter ending June 1995 will be available at the Government Publications Centre by the end of September at $32 a copy.
End/Thursday, August 17, 1995
Proactive approach adopted to help the unemployed
The Government is monitoring the employment situation in Hong Kong closely and will continue to adopt a proactive approach to help the unemployed to find jobs.
This was said today (Thursday) by the Deputy Secretary for Education and Manpower, Mr Leo Kwan, when he gave an update on the work being carried out by the Government to tackle the issue.