XN000022-1996-07-03 — Page 57

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Appointment to senior civil service posts

Following is a question by the Hon Eric Li Ka-cheung and a written reply by the Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr W K Lam, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

The training and accreditation of 'professional accountants' in the territory are undergoing major reforms which aim to raise the standards and international standing of locally qualified professional accountants and expand the field of competency requirements. In the light of this, will the Government inform this Council whether it will review the ranking criteria of civil service posts especially at the Head of Department and Policy Secretary levels so that holders of accredited professional accounting qualifications can be considered for filling such posts?

Reply:

Mr President,

We set the entry requirements for individual civil service grades having regard to the job requirements of the grade concerned. A professional qualification is stipulated for appointment to a particular grade which calls for expertise in that profession.

In respect of professional accountants, the qualifications of the Hong Kong Society of Accountants (HKSA) are accepted for appointment to the following entry

ranks -

Entry Rank

Head of Grade

) Director of Accounting Services

Treasury Accountant Accounting Officer II

Insolvency Officer II

Official Receiver

Auditor Examiner

) Director of Audit

Assistant Assessor

Insurance Officer

}

Commissioner of Inland Revenue

Commissioner of Insurance