XN000022-1997-04-17 — Page 7

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During the period December 1996 - February 1997, the number of unemployed persons was estimated at 68 400, and the number of underemployed persons at 36 600.

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The unemployment and underemployment statistics were obtained from a continuous General Household Survey. The survey for December 1996 February 1997 covered a quarterly sample of some 23 200 households or 77 700 persons, selected scientifically to represent the land-based civilian non-institutional population in Hong Kong. Data were obtained from the survey by interviewing each 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.

Being 'seasonally adjusted' refers to the fact that unemployment rate has been adjusted for seasonal variations in the proportion of first-time job-seekers in the labour force.

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 March 1997 will be on sale at the Government Publications Centre at ground floor, Low Block, 66 Queensway, Hong Kong, by the end of June 1997.

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Index of industrial production for 1996

The index of industrial production for the whole year of 1996 decreased by 3.5% over 1995, according to the results of a survey released today (Thursday) by the Census and Statistics Department.

Analysed by industry group, output of the basic metals and fabricated metal products industry recorded a decrease of 8.9%.

Output of the textiles (including knitting) industry and the wearing apparel (except footwear) industry decreased by 6.3% and 4.3% respectively.