Half of immigrated Hongkongers unemployed but 99pc determined to stay: UK survey

Around half of Hong Kong people who immigrated to the United Kingdom were unable to get a job, though almost all have no intention of returning to the city, according to a survey conducted by a charity organization in the UK that supports Hongkongers to settle.

The result came after the "Welcoming Committee for Hong Kongers" - an affiliate group of the independent think tank British Future - released a poll that interviewed over 2,000 Hong Kong people who came to the UK through the British National (Overseas) (BNO) visa scheme.

Among the interviewees, 36 percent held a Master's or PhD degree, and 23 percent had a postgraduate qualification.

Around 52 percent of the respondents aged 65 or below said they have a job, although 47 percent stated that the work is unrelated to their specialties or professional skills.

Twenty-four percent are unhappy with their wages, while one-fifth are overworked.

Respondents believed the major obstacle to entering the labor market is a lack of confidence in English competence, with only 11 percent thinking that their spoken English is "excellent." 

Some respondents also stated that their qualifications are not acknowledged and that there is a lack of profession guidance and support. One-eighth found themselves isolated at work, and five percent claimed to be discriminated.

Forty percent of immigrants claimed their financial stability had decreased, with 10 percent saying it had "seriously deteriorated." The fundamental reason is the cost of living was much higher than expected. 

Despite this, 99 percent stated they had no plans to return to Hong Kong.

The Welcoming Committee helps coordinate efforts to support Hongkongers settling in the UK, from civil society, communities, businesses, education, to governments across the UK's nations and regions.