HMOCS: DEFENSIVE Q AND A PRESS LINE
GENERAL BACKGROUND COMMENTS
HMG have now issued a statement of outline proposals for compensating members of Her Majesty's Overseas Civil Service when sovereignty reverts to China in 1997 and they loose HMOCS status. These proposals set out in outline measures which we consider appropriate in order to recognise the change; they also give the officers concerned encouragement to stay on and work in Hong Kong beyond 1997. The statement provides the basis for consultations with members of HMOCS in Hong Kong. The recently formed HMOCS Association have welcomed this move and HMG looks forward to constructive consultations with its representatives.
- There is a number of serving expatriate civil servants who are also members of Her Majesty's Overseas Civil Service (HMOCS). HMOCS was established in 1954 by HMG and
established a link between overseas officers serving in the dependent territories and HMG. This link will come to an end in 1997 when sovereignty reverts to China.
DEFENSIVE MATERIAL
HOW MANY/WHICH OFFICERS ARE INVOLVED?
There are about 700 in all in the Administration service.
HOW MUCH WILL THE OFFICERS GET?
mostly in the Police Force and
- This will depend on the final details of the scheme, and hence on the outcome of consultation. Many factors involved including age of officer, length of service, length of time over which any payments are made and others.
(If pressed) Subject to consultation. further at this stage.
Cannot comment
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST, WHO PAYS, WHEN WILL IT HAPPEN?
Cannot yet say how much the cost will be. But whatever the costs for the proposals under consideration, HMG will pay at the appropriate time, which will be decided after consultations.
HAVE THE CHINESE BEEN CONSULTED? WHAT WAS THEIR REACTION?
- We have informed the Chinese. They know that we shall be holding consultations with representatives of HMOCS.
WILL THIS NOT BE VERY DIVISIVE VIS A VIS LOCAL CIVIL SERVANTS?
- The proposals under discussion are a matter between HMG and the HMOCS officers concerned. HKG for its part has an equal obligation to all its employees, whether expatriate or local,
REGACU
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.