Industrial Disputes
18. In 1973 there were 43 strikes and one lock-out involving the loss of 43,350 man-days; representing a loss of 324 man-days for every 1,000 salaried employees and wage-earners. These are very low figures by any standard and reflect in part the success of the Labour Relations Service of the Hong Kong Labour Department.
IV.
Labour Administration
The Labour Department
19.
in
The agency for the implementation of labour policy and enforcement of labour legislation is the Labour Department which has been greatly expanded in recent years. It carries broadly similar responsibilities to those of the Department of Employ- ment in this country. In the financial year 1964, the Department's approved establishment totalled 183 posts: 1973-74 the total was 723. This has permitted in particular the strengthening of the Department's inspection and enforcement services. A member of HMFI is currently seconded from the UK to advise on training the Hong Kong Factory Inspectorate and on improving its efficiency. The Department makes available free guides and pamphlets in English and Chinese giving advice and guidance on various aspects of the Department's work. (A selection will be on display in the Conference Room). Department has devoted particular attention to regular and systematic campaigns to check on the illegal employment of children. The Department's policy is to prosecute in every case where an under-age child is employed. To facilitate the work of the inspectors and to protect employers engaging young people, the compulsory registration of children came into operation on 1 November 1973. When complete, all children under 14 will have an identity card bearing a photograph and date of birth. (A second registration at the age of 18 years will be made, to include an up-to-date photograph). A statistical note on recent 'campaign' inspections is at Annex C.
Labour Legislation
1
The
20. Labour legislation is initiated in the Labour Department which is responsible for consultation with all interests likely to be concerned, in particular the Labour Advisory Board (see paragraph 26). After approval in Executive Council, legislation must be presented to Legislative Council and debated there. Particular efforts are being made to revise the labour laws to ensure a wider application of International Labour Conventions. A note on the position of Hong Kong with regard to the application of Conventions will be found at Annex D.
21. Since 1968, 75 items of labour legislation have been passed. These have led, among other things, to a reduction in the number of disputes over non-payment of wages;
to some
/degree of
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