I refer to the letter from Dr Richard Collins headlined, 'Procedure proposed by Government technically flawed' (South China Morning Post, July 13).
The Government remains committed to making Hong Kong an international hub for high technology and to encourage the development of hi-tech companies. However, there are other considerations in deciding whether to seek assistance from private laboratories to perform the genetic tests for right of abode claimants.
We have no intention of delegating any part of the taking and/or testing of tissue samples in our genetic test procedure to private laboratories, because we consider it essential for the entire test to be placed under the direct supervision of the Government to ensure control and prevent abuse.
Moreover, in accordance with Article 22(4) of the Basic Law, mainland residents who are eligible for right of abode under the Basic Law 24(2)(3), must apply for exit approval from the mainland authorities for entry into Hong Kong for settlement. The mainland authorities wish to be assured of the validity of the claimed parent-child relationship and be involved in the process through which such a relationship is established.
In this connection, a procedure has been devised for genetic tests to be conducted on the basis of close co-operation between the Hong Kong and mainland authorities. Central to this co-operative arrangement is the alignment of the procedures adopted by our Government Laboratory and the designated laboratory in the mainland, namely the laboratory of the Criminal Technology Division of the Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department.
This designated mainland laboratory will adopt the standards and quality assurance measures presently used by our Government Laboratory. Procedural alignment is assured in this way. The designated mainland laboratory will shortly visit the Government Laboratory for consultation and observation. Both sides will conduct simulated tests to ensure smooth communication and operation. Further measures will be taken to ensure the faithful application of reliable technical standards by both sides in actual operation.
