Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Patrick Nip, at a media session after attending a public function today (October 15):
Reporter: Regarding the National Security Law test for government workers, how likely that this would discourage people to work for the Government as fear of not passing the exam? Is there a timeline for it? Second question, can you confirm whether there's a plan to reduce the number of vaccination centres…
Secretary for the Civil Service: For those who apply for government jobs, we would require them to attend a test. In the past, we have been doing this for the Basic Law Test, and we would review the content of the test and also introduce an additional requirement about attending a test on the National Security Law because for those who join the Government, it is important for them to have a basic understanding about the Basic Law, about the "one country, two systems" principle and also the importance of understanding national security. I think it is only natural that we introduce these tests for those who wish to apply for government jobs. I am not worried about whether this would lead to a reduction in the number of applications. The most important thing is that we recruit the right people. I think that's the most important.
As regards the number of COVID-19 Community Vaccination Centres, we would review the current vaccination situation, the need for the third dose, the scope and the target groups that should receive the third dose, etc, and then review the need for continuing the operation of the Community Vaccination Centres after end-December. We would take a view and announce that probably by the end of this month or early next month. We will keep in view of the situation and let the public know as soon as possible when we are ready.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
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