§ 8. Mr. James Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what measures he is taking to increase the numbers of children of poor families in Hong Kong whose school fees are waived under a means test.
§ Mrs. HartFunds for the remission of fees at public secondary schools were raised in 1965. Up to 45 per cent. of the fees may be remitted. Funds for this purpose at public primary schools were doubled in 1965. They are not yet being fully used, and the Hong Kong Government is at present publicising the opportunities for parents to claim remission of fees.
§ 37. Mr. A. Royleasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs how many new schools have been built in Hong Kong over the past five years; and at what rate new school buildings are being completed during the current year.
§ Mrs. HartDuring the period 1962–66 inclusive, 190 primary and 60 secondary schools were built, with 202,220 primary and 45,890 secondary places. Extensions to existing schools during the same period provided 27,540 primary and 6,620 secondary places.
During the current year, 29 primary and 7 secondary schools will be completed giving 41,040 primary and 6,350 secondary places. Extensions during the year will provide 3,330 primary and 1,920 secondary places.
§ Mr. James Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what are the numbers of pupils enjoying secondary education in Hong Kong; and how many of these do not pay any fees.
§ Mrs. HartIn September, 1966, there were 186,809 full time and 36,129 part time pupils receiving secondary education. Of 57,706 pupils attending public secondary schools 9,873 pay no tuition fees and 16,744 receive partial remission (three quarter, half or quarter fees). Figures for remissions in private schools are not available.
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§ Mr. Evan Luardasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what proposals he has for constitutional development in Hong Kong.
§ Mrs. HartAs I stated in the adjournment debate on Hong Kong on the 26th April, because of Hong Kong's special position, constitutional development towards self-government is not possible. In my view it is through the medium of local government that the people of Hong Kong can best be given an opportunity of playing a fuller part in the conduct of the affairs of the Colony. The Report of the Working Party on Local Administration was published in February so there is now an opportunity for public discussion and comment on it in Hong Kong.