independently.
23
Miners argues small groups may exert influence beyond
what their size would indicate in Hong Kong because, first, of the public
support they may arouse, second, divisions amongst more powerful pressure
groups such as employer-associations, and third, to the extent that demands
of such groups run counter to the government's own ideology. With regard
to civil service unions the last two reasons may largely be dismissed, In
this area, the degree of common interest amongst employers and the government
far outweighs differences of opinion. The first point is only partially valid:
valid:
While public support did help the nurses settle a salary dispute with the
government favourably, it did not significantly aid the teachers in their
struggles because the public sees teaching as an easy job. For them, the
critical issue of employment rationalisation has yet to be resolved.
Ultimately these 'balancing' factors may represent a limitation, if not a
liability, to the majority of civil service unions.
Even for fairly mild actions such as putting up posters, picketing,
-holding press conferences..or initiating petitions there are significant questions
of legality or at least specific procedures to be followed. For instance,
pickets and marches must be sanctioned by both public administrators and the
police. The formal approval of the department head is required before posters
can be put up on or in offices, etc. Thus, the government possesses considerable
discretionary power should it decide to make a stand. Such powers have been
used-although their full potential impact is yet to-be-realised. Up to now,
the unique situation of Hong Kong and the government's desire to maintain an
image of quiet efficiency, community consent and 'reasonableness' with its
employees has enabled civil service unions to exert an increasing influence if
they are prepared to go beyond formal channels. HKCCSA epitomise the
strengthening union viewpoint when they argue conflict is a good thing because
24 it helps resolve 'irregularities' At this stage, organised action is very
much a process of trial and error for the more ambitious or frustrated unions.
23.
24.
The limitations of 'one out' actions has already brought about a desire
X.J. Miners, Op. Cit. page 95.
Taken from interviews conducted as part of the Union survey.