The Government has been accused of avoiding its welfare responsibilities by encouraging elderly people to move to Guangdong.
Officials confirmed yesterday that people retiring to the province would not have their medical and housing costs subsidised as they do in Hong Kong.
They would be paid the standard monthly welfare payment of $2,200, which comprises the $2,060 standard rate and the annual $1,530 long-term supplement.
It is estimated about 7,000 elderly people will join the scheme, which will cost the Government half the amount it spends on elderly people staying in the territory.
Director of Social Welfare Andrew Leung Kin-pong said the amount that the elderly received was double the average wage paid in Guangdong.
'It is their choice. They will have to consider if they can maintain their living standards taking into account lifestyle and medical expenditure,' he said.
He denied the Government was systematically moving the elderly into China to save money.