TNAG-1548-FCO40-2112-Future-of-the-Hong-Kong-public-service-1986 — Page 109

布政司署

港下亞畢道

本署檔號 OUR REF

Ad 7/54

來西檔號 YOUR REF:

Dear Colleague,

RESTRICTED

вив

PA future of lub. Semi

1/256/1

GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT

LOWER ALBERT ROAD

HONG KONG

23 April 1986

34

A recently issued Civil Service Branch Circular (No. 3/86 of 18 April 1986) has announced revised arrangements relating to extensions of service beyond the normal retirement age.

Those who are interested in this subject are advised to read the circular. However the main point to note is that, as from 1 May 1987, extensions will be granted subject to tightened criteria relating to service need, to the officer being required to remain in the service on account of his ability and experience, and to physical fitness. The Public Service Commission must be consulted on each extension. Additionally, an officer who is granted an extension of service will no longer have an option as to terms of re-employment : all such service will be on agreement terms with a gratuity being payable at the end of each agreement.

These revised arrangements apply throughout the civil service. However one further measure, applicable only to the Administrative Service, has been introduced.

Having regard to the provisions of the Joint Declaration, it is desirable to take early action to increase the number of local officers in very senior positions, in order to minimise the need for more drastic change at a later stage. Bearing in mind historical recruitment and promotion patterns, it has been decided that some progress can be made in this direction by introducing a general policy under which overseas Administrative Officers, if granted extensions of service, would in any case only be granted one extension of two years up to the age of 57. Such a policy has now been implemented, though of course any commitments already entered into and providing for service beyond the age of 57 are being honoured.

This broad approach has been adopted in an attempt to be as fair as possible to all concerned and to minimise the need for sudden or more drastic measures. It should be noted that promotion criteria throughout the Service remain unchanged

нны HHH 25611

RECEIVED IN REGISTRY

IN

- 2 MAY 1986

DESK OFFICER

REGISTRY

PA

Action Falkeam

Yours sincerely,

Harbusen

To: All members of the

Administrative Service

(Stuart Harbinson)

for Secretary for the Civil Service