Originally Posted by Unregistered

If it slows down promotion, then it has adverse effects. Whether it is formally categorised as 'adverse grade' or not.

Of course we know that this is just one of MOE's many efforts to slow down the rate of promotion of EOs. As if we weren't already one of the slowest in the whole public service. If any EO doubts this, apply for a lateral transfer to another public service agency and you'll see how far behind your same-exp/same-age peers you are.