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CONFIDENTIAL
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5. It is expected that the introduction of the programme of labour legislation at A above, together with other measures not requiring legislation, will considerably increase the number of ILO Conventions which Hong Kong will be in a position to apply in full or in part. As announced by the Governor (paragraph 4 above), in general the aim will be to raise standards in Hong Kong, both in the labour and other fields, so that they are broadly comparable to at least the best equivalents in Asia (excluding Japan which has for example, a sophisticated social insurance scheme). The Hong Kong Government intends to make attendance at school compulsory for persons under 14 by 1979 and under 15 by 1980 (paragraph`4C(i) refers). In addition to the complete review of Social Welfare referred to in paragraph 4B(ii), further measures that will have to be considered during the five vear programme include statutory hours of work and of overtime, statutory overtime rates, and also But none of provision of minimum wages for low paid occupations. these measures will be specifically announced in the near future.
6. It will be seen that much has already been done to raise standards in Hong Kong in the fields of labour, social welfare, education, housing and medical and health services to a level broadly equivalent to the best in neighbouring countries whose circumstances are similar to. Hong Kong's. Nevertheless both HMG and the Hong Kong Government have fully recognised, as stated above that Hong Kong will have to go further in order to reach this target. The proposals already announced by the Governor of Hong Kong and others envisaged (see paragraph 5 above) are designed to ensure that the target is met well within the next five years.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office London SW1
14 December 1976
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CONFIDENTIAL
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