XN000022-1996-12-23 — Page 8

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"The Government has been advised that there was no reasonable chance of success in a further appeal on any of the main issues. It would not be prudent for the Government to appeal when it clearly knows that the chance of success is very slim. This would only prolong the uncertainties faced by agreement officers, both local and overseas, over our appointments policy. The Government would also be faced with larger claims if we lost again," he said.

The spokesman emphasised that the long standing localisation policy would remain a central plank of the Government.

He also emphasised the continuing importance of an ability to communicate effectively in Chinese and that Chinese language ability would continue to be given significance in appointments, renewal of contracts and promotion. The Government would also continue with the opening up arrangements, currently in place for renewal of agreements on local terms, which had been upheld by the judgment.

The spokesman noted that the Government would now work closely with all the parties involved to give effect to the judgment in a way that was fair to all.

"It will take some time to work out the practical details flowing from some of the decisions," he said. "We have a lot of work to do, and look forward to the cooperation of the staff sides in this."

The spokesman said that the Government was keenly aware of the high emotions this case had raised. He hoped that now that final decisions had been made, all parties could work together to find workable solutions that would maintain the stability and integrity of the civil service.

End

Governor approves Judge Caird's application for retirement

A Government spokesman announced today (Monday) that the Governor has, on the advice of the Acting Chief Justice, approved His Honour Judge Caird's application for early retirement on medical grounds.

"This decision was taken in the light of the report of the Medical Board set up in October," said the spokesman. "In the circumstances. the Governor has decided that no purpose would be served by proceeding with the appointment of a judicial tribunal to consider whether Judge Caird should be removed from office."

End