Ok everyone - thanks for your input. The picture seems pretty clear, and since I do have some experience, I don't think I'll be touching this job unless pay/conditions offered improve dramatically. I may still go through the process for practice though.
BC: You shouldn't be 'amazed' by our outlook - these are large sums of money in the UK, and the purpose of these forums is to let those of you who actually know about living costs in HK to share with those who don't. I appreciate the input, and I'll take the advice offered, but as a 2000+ hour military pilot, I'm not keen on the term 'wannabe'!
Many thanks for all your inputs.
TH