TNAG-0473-FCO40-538-Hong-Kong-government-policy-on-education-1974 — Page 200

3.

since the war. The population has increased sevenfold

and the demands which have, in consequence, fallen upon

its social, economic and financial resources have been

immense.

1.7

In spite of the urgent claims of housing,

medical services, social welfare, and the manifold

demands of a modern urban society, subsidized primary

education for all has been attained, which is itself

an achievement of which the community may well be proud.

A careful examination of our resources has satisfied the

Government that it is feasible to embark upon the far

reaching plans set out in this Paper.

1.8

There is no doubt that the majority of the

community fervently believe that there should be a generous

expansion of secondary education. The financial and other

commitments involved will represent a heavy burden, which

can only be carried at the expense of other social and

community needs. The conclusions of this Paper will not

satisfy everyone. To some its targets will seem too modest

and the methods proposed unsatisfactory. But the Government's

duty is to try to balance, as equitably as it can, the competing

claims of many more desirable projects than our resources

permit us to undertake.

1.9

This programme, although it has disadvantages,

should go far to provide for the children of Hong Kong the

standards of education which they need if they are to be

properly equipped to fend for themselves and serve thei?

fellows in the competitive world of the next decade.

cost to the community will be heavy but it is an investment

in our future prosperity.

The

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