Public servants serving in all Hong Kong government departments, including the __________, before the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, may all remain in employment and retain their seniority with pay, allowances, benefits, and conditions of service no less favorable than before.

Public servants in Hong Kong were assured continuity of employment and certain employment conditions following the handover to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR). The specific provision regarding retaining employment with no less favorable conditions pertains significantly to the police department. This is due to the critical role that law enforcement plays in maintaining public order and security, which is especially emphasized in the context of the Basic Law and the National Security framework.

The police department, given its importance in terms of safeguarding national security and upholding the rule of law, has distinct protections in terms of job security and conditions of service. This reflects the broader commitment to ensure stability and continuity in public service sectors that are vital to the functioning of the government.

While public servants in other departments—such as healthcare, education, and transportation—also benefit from similar assurances, the specific mention of the police department highlights the added emphasis on law enforcement with respect to the post-handover governance structure in Hong Kong.