TNAG-1894-FCO40-2688-Visit-by-Francis-Maude--Minister-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Co-1989 — Page 49

TIMAAH(6)

CONFIDENTIAL

WILL LOCALISATION POLICY BE CHANGED TO ENABLE THE EMPLOYMENT OF MORE

EXPATRIATES SHOULD THERE BE AN INCREASED OUTFLOW OF LOCAL TALENT

FROM THE CIVIL SERVICE?

Understand Hong Kong Government has no plans to change its

localisation policy which has been applied consistently since the

early 1960s. Effect now clearly discernible at all levels of the

civil service. Localisation policy does not preclude recruitment of

expatriates where local candidates not available.

RESIGNATIONS FROM THE CIVIL SERVICE IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS (1988/89)

HAS INCREASED BY OF 75 PERCENT OVER THE PREVIOUS 12 MONTHS

(1987/88). IF THIS TREND CONTINUED ARE YOU NOT CONCERNED THAT THE

SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE GOVERNMENT WILL BE AFFECTED?

The civil service, like the private sector, is losing staff as a

result of emigration and the tight labour market. Am also aware

that Hong Kong Government is closely monitoring recruitment and

wastage trends and is examining ways and means of improving

recruitment and retention where necessary. On our part, as have already said, will be reviewing our nationality and immigration legislation.

LOCALSATION

POL

RESIÓNATIONS!

CONFIDENTIAL