CONFIDENTIAL #2
40
機密
is considered necessary for the healthy growth of responsible trade unionism.
9.13
The procedure for the settlement of labour
disputes is reasonably straight-forward although it permits many levels of appeal. A dispute, whether
relating to wages or wrongful dismissal, is first handled by officers of a regional office. Where an amicable settlement cannot be reached through conciliation and voluntary arbitration, the Regional Director will "certify" (submit) it to the National Labour Relations Committee for compulsory arbitration as provided by law. If the parties are not satisfied with the award, they may appeal to the inister of Labour. Further appeals may be made to the Tresident. Appeals to the Supreme Court can be made on points of law only. The whole process is time-consuming and the inistry of Labour is trying to improve and simplify the system. The Minister of Labour has expressed to us his personal interest in the operation of labour tribunals in hong
Kong.
Singapore
9.14
industrial relations are generally peaceful and stable. Trade unionism has been developing healthily, and about 20% of the labour force is unionised. Collective agreements are widely accepted by all sectors of the economy and have been an effective instrument for the regulation of the terms and conditions of employment. The National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and the Singapore Employers' Federation are strong supporters of the Government's economic and social development policies. apart from being influential in Government policies, the NTUC is increasingly prosperous in financial terms because of its extensive involvement in co-operative activities on a large scale, including the operation of a chain of supermarkets, taxis, life insurance and (eventually) building construction.
CONFIDENTIAL #2