H.K.D.N.
9.12.76
H.K.D.N.
14.12.76
S.P.
10.12.76
K.S.E.N.
11.12.76
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We think young workers should be allowed to work overtime if they are willing to do so. Any legislative control on overtime should not go against this principle.
We believe the real reason the Government is restricting overtime is that a ban on overtime will provide more employment opportunities. Manufacturers will have to hire more men to keep up production if their workers are not allowed to work overtime.
We do not agree that we should introduce legislation to remove from the workers their freedom to decide whether they want to work overtime or not. Severe restrictions on child labour and overtime for female workers have already been found to be unsuitable to the practical needs of Hong Kong's developing industries.
Allowing young workers to work overtime will not only give them a chance to earn more, but will help boost production and exports. Is it wise, therefore to phase out overtime?
Sickness benefits
The Government is actively promoting labour reforms in order to ward off overseas criticism that Hong Kong industry prospers by "denying workers their benefits".
No matter what the motive is, it is always good to improve labour welfare and the public will not object.
But perhaps someone will ask: "Apart from devising legislation to force employers to improve labour welfare, should the Government itself not give the workers some benefits?”
That is why we feel employers should raise a counter-proposal to urge the Government to introduce a medical care scheme for workers in a joint effort to improve their lot.
SIR MURRAY TO STAY?
On December 13, a number of Chinese papers quoted the British Ambassador to Japan, Sir Michael Wilford, as saying that the Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose's term of office would be extended for 18 more months.