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this nature would have been extremely sensitive and I am reluctant to embark even at this stage on second-guessing what would have been the then view of the UPGC.
5.
For the sake of completeness I ought to say that, quite coincidentally, prior to receipt of your letter, the UPGC Secretariat referred full details of the scheme (including the currency fluctuation provision) to the Civil Service Branch for advice in connection with a proposal from the University to modify the formula for calculating benefits. On 11 July the Secretary for the Civil Service advised as follows:-
"Having taken into account the rates of the employer's and employees' contributions to (HKU's) Scheme, I take the view that in broad terms the level of retirement benefits payable to the staff of the University of Hong Kong upon their normal retirement, on the basis of the modified formula, is not more favourable than that enjoyed by their counterparts in the civil service."
6.
I ought in fairness to make the points that this view of the Secretary for the Civil Service was expressed at a time when conditions in Hong Kong had stabilized and that he may not have directed his mind to the implications of the currency fluctuation clause.
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7.
In conclusion, the view of members is that it would be impracticable at this stage to raise with HKU the issue of comparability, although, together with the other institutions, it has been reminded of the duty to consult; and the UPGC will not treat this case as a precedent in the event of any of the Members other institutions seeking to make a similar change. further considered that it would not be appropriate for the UPGC to comment on the political issue.
Yours sincerely,
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John J. Swainé)
Chairman
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