2
Since that time, a different turn of events has seen a serious deterioration in the position.
Following the recent aircraft hijackings, the branch determined to boycott aircraft belonging to the U.A.R upon which, it is understood, Chinese members of the Association resigned.
The ban was later lifted but the branch secretary resigned from both his union office and his job in order to return to the U.K. under pressure from the Management.
The Chairman of the branch in Hong Kong has since informed us of further Chinese resignations which have been received, possibly because of pressure from the management who sense a weakening situation.
The Industrial Relations Situation in Hong Kong
The existing relationship is rather strained because of the attitude adopted by Management and Government of resistance towards Trade Union organisation. (Letter from Mr. Becker 27th May).
Growing labour troubles have encouraged the Government to introduce a new bill (Trade Union Registration (Amendment) Bill 1970, with the object of bringing some regulation into relations between employers and workers.
While recognising that most of the bill brings about improvements, a memorandum on the Draft Bill by John Rear, Senior Lecturer in Law in the University of Hong Kong, and J.W.England, Deputy Director of the Department of Extra-Mural studies in the University of Hong Kong, points to three proposals which would stiffle the growth of Trade Unions.
1)
2)
3)
Government Inspectorates
To be responsible for securing the full observance of penal labour laws.
Labour Courts
These will deal with disputes arising from existing contract of employment, not with attempts to make new terms of employment.
The debarring of unionists from trade union positions If they have been convicted of offences involving fraud, dishonesty, extortion or membership of a triad society, or any offence involving violence or against public order.
The law relating to strikes and picketing has not been clarified.
(a) Immunity from suit is available to trade unions only. An individual therefore, who induces another to break his contract is liable in tort.
(b) The situation which existed in this country prior to
the 1965 Trades Disputes Act still applies in Hong Kong.
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