CONFIDENTIAL
Note No.13
Visit of Mr. Anthony Royle, Parliamentary Under- Secretary of State, to Hong Kong, October, 1970.
Labour cuestions
Progress with Labour Legislation
1.
The progressive improvement in labour standards has
led to a considerable easing of parliamentary and press
criticism in the United Kingdom and has undoubtedly helped
Hong Kong's international image. The continued high rate
of industrial expansion demonstrates that these improvements
have not impaired Hong Kong's competitive position.
Moreover, some of the credit for the industrial peace that
has been enjoyed by Hong Kong since 1967 must be given to the
efforts that have been made to improve conditions of labour.
Additional Legislation at present under consideration
2. It is welcome news that progress is now being made with
legislation to establish labour courts by which workers can
obtain quick and inexpensive redress of individual grievances.
(In the United kingdom we intend to move in the same direction).
The Industrial Relations Bill appears, however, to have been
given a low priority and on present form it is unlikely to
see the light of day until well into 1971. It is recognised
that legislation to deal with industrial disputes in essential
services has been given some priority, but this is all part
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CONFIDENTIAL