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HONG KONG DAILY NEWS (October 16) quoted some employers as saying that the proposed benefits scheme had seemingly failed to look after the interests of both employers and employees.
A manufacturer said he wondered why the Government on the one hand stated that it would not interfere with free enterprise; but on the other hand forced employers to pay for more benefits for their workers, the paper said.
"If the Government is determined to introduce more benefits for workers, it should relax its restrictions on child and woman workers," the paper suggested.
WAH KIU YAT PO (October 11) said while considering increased benefits for
workers, one should see to it that Hong Kong's competitive position and its ability to attract foreign investment would not be materially affected.
The paper said it seemed that the Governor was facing this challenge by pushing ahead with plans to build more industrial estates and to provide more technical training.
It supported the Government's plans and suggested that in addition to these, the Government should encourage banks to set aside special funds to help industries buy new equipment to raise the quality of Hong Kong products.
HONG KONG TIMES (October 13) described the Governor's review as an "optimistic" one.
The paper said Hong Kong was now preparing for a bright future but in the meantime, there were problems that called for solutions.
It said that in the present circumstances, the people of Hong Kong should work hand in hand to maintain Hong Kong's stability and prosperity.
"Secondly, we should continue improving the livelihood of the public both physically and spiritually.
"Finally, social benefits should be expanded to narrow the gap between the rich and the poor," the paper said.
To gain public support, the Government should maintain Hong Kong as a free society and at the same time help provide jobs for people and raise their standard of living, the paper added.