Civil service pay freeze unlikely this year as government launches salary trend survey

With improved finances, the government will not freeze civil service pay for a fourth time in six years and has begun the annual pay trend survey to decide adjustments.

Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung Ho Poi-yan said yesterday that the Pay Trend Survey Committee issued questionnaires to eligible private companies and non-governmental organizations on February 26.

The government is collecting internal data on economic conditions, price indices and other factors. Staff sides will soon be invited to submit pay adjustment claims.

All six factors will be compiled by June for consideration by the Chief Executive in Council.

Speaking at the 36th anniversary reception of the Disciplined Services Consultative Council, Yeung noted the Budget's plan to control operating expenditure and civil service establishment over the next two financial years through resource efficiency optimization.

She expressed confidence that disciplined services will maintain professional spirit, dedication, reform readiness and innovation to deliver quality public service.

Yeung highlighted the State Council white paper on "Hong Kong: Safeguarding China's National Security Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems," released on February 10, stressing ongoing risks amid global changes.

She reminded all civil servants, especially disciplined forces, of their duty to remain vigilant and contribute to national security.

She added that this year marks the start of the national 15th Five-Year Plan.

The government will align Hong Kong's five-year plan with the national strategy to better integrate into and serve the country's development.

The Civil Service Bureau will formulate its own five-year plan for civil service matters as part of this effort.