Keep Student Cash-handout The Same, Say Teachers

The Professional Teachers' Union has expressed reservations over suggestions that a cash handout be given to all pupils in the upcoming budget.

Last year's budget offered a one-off HK$2,000 grant to students in need, and pro-government parties have said that the handout should be extended to all students.

But the PTU says there might be heavy administrative costs and other complications.

President Fung Wai-wah said it's good enough to continue last year's scheme.

"We prefer that the money is spent more on those in need, so those with a not-so-good economic situation can some relief in their family burden," he said.

He added that using the existing means-testing mechanism to decide who is eligible would not introduce any extra costs.