CONFIDENTIAL
than that in this country, but any relaxation, particularly
on the employment of full time officials, would be likely to
help the communist unions rather than the right wing unions.
5. All official attempts to improve trade union structure
have foundered. At the end of 1969 there were 320 registered
trade unions in Hong Kong. The Goverment has tried to promote
ducation and at one time had a full time official
trade union
for this pur ose;
have made efforts, equally without much success. Following
the troubles of 1967, an adviser on Joint Consultation was
appointed to the Department of Labour. A survey was carried
out early in 1970 to ascertain the progress that had been made.
The results were encouraging showing that at least 220
organisations operate some form of Joint Consultation.
Departmental officers are now carrying out an intensive
international trade union organisations
programme of visits to other organisations which have expressed
interest. Legislation to provide for compulsory joint
consultation is being considered.
6. The wide powers given to the Registrar of Trade Unions
and the conditions with which trade union development is hedged
around derive in large measure from the desire to diminish the
subversive capability of the Peking unions.
7. Recognition of a union as the sole representative of
employees for negotiating purposes is not normal practice in
Hong Kong although some managements have working arrangements
with unions which amount to tacit recognition. However,
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CONFIDE. TIAL