TNAG-0473-FCO40-538-Hong-Kong-government-policy-on-education-1974 — Page 128

CONFIDENTIAL

機密

- 5 -

Among criticisms to be expected are:

XCC(74)69

(a) that the White Paper does not provide for the immediate

abolition of the SSEE. This can only be achieved when

we are close to the proposed goal of 100% subsidised places for all primary school leavers;

(b) that the White Paper does not provide free secondary

education. In present circumstances the additional cost is not acceptable, nor is it socially necessary because the fee remission scheme will continue to subsidise those who are really in need;

(c) that the changeover of language of instruction proposed

is not more all embracing. Experience in South East Asia indicates that a too rapid changeover of the medium of instruction endangers standards;

(d) that the targets of 100% and 40% of places could be

attained before 1979. This is not considered attainable, and it must be emphasised that September 1979 is the earliest by which this can be achieved. Even September 1979 is considered by some to be an optimistic target, and its realisation is dependent upon factors which cannot be predicted in advance with complete assurance.

Public relations aspects

14

The Education White Paper has gone some way to meeting public criticism levelled at the Green Paper, but it must be assumed that the White Paper will still be criticised, particularly by the various education pressure groups. Among points which are likely to be the target of criticism are the omission of nine years free education and the absence of any explanation why this is not possible, and the introduction of the flotation/extended day system and its possible effects on students and staff. However, the possibility of the entire White Paper being criticised point-by-point cannot be ruled out.

15

To counter this, the Government should emphasise that the targets of 100/40% can be achieved by September 1979 five years ahead of the target date originally suggested in the Green Paper recommendations. This could be seen as showing the Government's determination to push ahead with the provision of secondary education for children in this age group. The publicity could stress that the flotation/extended day system is only a temporary measure and will be phased out once the provision of new schools has caught up with the demand for places. It could also be pointed out that the interim targets approved in 1971 have already been achieved two years ahead of schedule.

CONFIDENTIAL

機密