Flag A Flag B
Mr Hurst (OLA G 65/G)
TD 18
RE! #1
22 JUL!977
HKK 200/1
File
HONG KONG: COMPULSORY EDUCATION AND THE ILLEGAL EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN
1. The Governor has now replied to Lord Goronwy-Roberts' letter of 21 June on the subject of the illegal employment of children.
2.
You will note that the Governor would not accept your suggestion that a separate count should be framed in respect of each child found to be illegally employed. The reason he gives, that magistrates take into the account the number of children involved when determining the level of fines, is I think acceptable. Subject to your agreement therefore I do not propose to pursue this matter further.
3. We agreed that the solution to the illegal employment of children is the introduction of free compulsory education for children but the Governor does not accept this and intimates that he is satisfied with the present system where- by those students unable to afford the standard fee have it remitted in part or in whole.
4. I propose that we should continue to urge the Governor to introduce free compulsory education and to this end I have prepared a draft submission and a draft letter for Lord Goronwy-Roberts' signature. I should be grateful for your views before they go forward. Since I shall be going on a month's leave today perhaps you would be kind enough to return the papers to Derek Milton.
(65)
22 July 1977
T Duffy
Hong Kong & General Department K 245
233 4377
3/0/2/8/77
noted
23/8 For Men Duffy D/7
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.