t
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7.
8.
9.
various Government officers, that Government would use the renewal of TVB's lease, or find some other means, to ensure that TVB were given no opportunity to be obstructive and, on the contrary, were required to cooperate.
It is only within the last fortnight that we have learned that Government are reluctant to use their powers to dictate suitable conditions to TVB, and rather than act with determination vis a vis TVB they are considering the establishment of an ITA type of organisation which would act as a transmitting agency for all broadcasters. We would have no objection to this proposal in theory provided adoption of it led to no delay to the tender timetable already notified by Government. However, it is inconceivable to us that the Hong Kong Government could act swiftly and effectively enough to discuss, consider and authorize an ITA organisation and have it fully set up, staffed, equipped and operating by June 1973. In any event this new proposal requires consideration and approval by Executive Council and it is understood that it would be impossible for a paper setting out the various alternatives, including this proposal, to be prepared in less than a month from now and thereafter consideration of it by Executive Council would depend upon the state of that Council's agenda.
We cannot really object to an ITA type of organisation in principle but we have every right to object to the delay which must inevitably occur in the establishment of it. We think that the best course to follow is:
a)
b)
c)
The Government should stick to its original proposals, and require the next broadcaster to establish a transmitter mast on the transmitting site, to be used in common by all broadcasters.
Government must effectively impose its will upon TVB to ensure that a) above is accomplished in a timely manner.
If a) above is adopted, at least as an interim expedient, Government would be in a position to take it's time in considering an ITA organisation which could, in due course, take over from us and the other broadcasters the mast, aerials, transposers, etc.
Quite apart from the fact that Government is in a position to dictate terms to TVB as to the use of the transmitter site upon expiry of TVB's existing lease, it is interesting to note that the current lease itself provides for termination on six month's notice; and, furthermore, for resumption for any public purpose whatsoever, but if the latter power is used compensation has to be paid.
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