Passport page needed for Employer to request Employment License from Chinese government?

Hello, I'm American (currently in the US) and have a job offer from an American/Chinese company in Shanghai, and we want to get the visa process started as soon as possible. However, I need to get a new passport, which takes 3-6 weeks. I know that the first step my employer must take is to apply for the "Employment Licence" for me, which requires my resume, copy of diploma, criminal background check, and possibly a health examination form. He then sends the Employment Licence and Invitation Letter.

My question is: Will my employer also need a copy of my passport page at this step? Also, are there any other documents he will need at this step that I did not list above?
Of course I know I'll need the passport when I apply for the visa, I just want to know if my employer can at least start the process on his end by applying for the Employment Licence while I wait for my new passport.

One more question: If my employer must have a passport page at this step, can I give him a copy of my old passport (lost, but still valid and not expired)? When I actually apply for it, as well as the work/residence permit, it will be with the new passport. So would my employer using my old passport page to apply for the Employment License be a problem? Will that old passport number show up on any of my application documents (Employment License and Invitation Letter)?

Thank you for your knowledge and your help!