TNAG-1665-FCO40-2314-Hong-Kong-employment-issues-and-ordinances-foreign-domestic-1987 — Page 223

XCC (87) 28

Summary

23

Given the

Page

8

interests

involved,

the

various vested problem of FDHs in Hong Kong is а

difficult one to solve. Basically the numbers are now too large. The prospect is that they will continue to grow unless a limit is

limit is placed on

placed on them. Such is the present state of the Philippine economy that the changes proposed in memorandum (XCC(87)29) to their conditions of employment will only marginally affect the supply of FDHs wanting to come to Hong Kong. Thus to postpone a decision will simply make the problem even worse.

24

In

The situation has reached a point at which any solution is bound to be imperfect and controversial. realistic terms the choice seems to be either the proposal to reduce the numbers gradually by means of the steps set out in paragraph 14 of XCC(86)191 at Annex or placing a strict limit on the numbers as considered in this memorandum. There does not seem to be any suitable alternatives. Either will create considerable problems. In particular the Commissioner of Labour sees substantial difficulties in implementing the second proposal (paragraphs 14 to 16 above).

Advice sought

25

26

that

(a)

(b)

Members will be asked to advise :

in Hong

whether either the number of FDHS Kong should be reduced by means of the proposals in paragraph 14 of XCC (86)191 at Annex or the number of FDHS be limited by the means described in paragraph 3 and 4 of this memorandum should be adopted;

whether the wage range for FDHs should be increased as described in paragraph 11.

Members are also asked to endorse the recommendation

before implementation of any change in policy, the British Embassy in Manila should be asked to explain the reasons and implications fully to the government of the Phillipines.

(The Secretary for Security, Mr D.G. JEAFFRESON, the Political Adviser, Mr R.D. CLIFT, the Director of Immigration, Mr A.J. CARTER, and the Commissioner for Labour, Mr J.C.A. HAMMOND, will attend before the Council for the discussion of this item.)

9 February 1987 (SCR2/2091/78 VI)

COUNCIL CHAMBER