CONFIDENTIAL
IN
4. Para. 9.14 is an interesting reflection on the comparative status of trade unions in Singapore and Hong Kong. Can any trade union centre in Hong Kong be said to be "influential in Government policies"?
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5. I suggest that the final paragraph in the letter to Mr Ho should be redrafted on the following lines:-
6.
"To: us, Hong Kong comes out of this exercise best in terms of its ability to enforce labour legislation - a factor which greatly enhances its existing statutory provisions and which many of the Colony's critics in this country ignore. However, if in terms of the Governor's speech in October 1976, the labour and social legislation of Hong Kong is to be comparable to the best in neighbouring Asian countries with the exception of Japan, then there are
This is improvements for which we must continue to strive. clearly shown by Table 23 of the Report. Para. 9.14 of the Report also reveals that in Singapore the trade union movement is influential in deciding Government policies (Malaysia too has a significantly effective trade union movement) and in the matter of industrial relations and trade unionism generally we shall be looking to see if any progress is possible in Hong Kong in the light of whatever recommendations Professor Turner may eventually make in his final report. You will be aware too that social security measures in Hong Kong constitute another of our outstanding concerns.
I have also suggested, in pencil, a minor addition to the first paragraph of the draft letter.
I.
j
23 June 1978
the starst
HRG Hurst
Overseas Labour Adviser
CONFIDENTIAL
CODE 18.77