XN000022-1995-07-19 — Page 111

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University teachers undertake outside work

Following is a question by the Hon Emily Lau and a written reply by the Secretary for Education and Manpower, Mr Michael Leung, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

Is the Government aware that some of the teaching staff in universities undertake outside work on a part-time basis to earn extra money; if so, will the Government ask the management of the universities concerned to provide the following information:-

(a) whether this phenomenon is common in the universities;

(b)

(c)

(d)

(e)

what are the procedures and criteria adopted by the university management in considering applications submitted by university teaching staff for permission to undertake outside work;

what information the teaching staff are required to provide to the university management when making such applications;

what areas of outside work are undertaken by university teaching staff; and

what is the highest annual remuneration which a university teaching member has received for undertaking outside work in the past three years?

Reply:

Mr President,

The Government is aware that, subject to the relevant regulations established by individual institutions, academic staff in the UGC-funded institutions are allowed to undertake outside practice. Different institutions adopt slightly different definitions of the term "outside practice". In general it refers to the use by a staff member of professional knowledge and skill outside of, or in addition to, their normal duties for reward, including fees, honoraria, retainers and any other remuneration.