The Administration considers that it would be useful if a pilot scheme for cable television were conducted. A pilot scheme would enable the market for cable television to be tested, would provide an indication of cable TV's likely effect upon the community and would allow the possible technologies for cable to be evaluated in practice. HK TelCo has already made a proposal to conduct pilot scheme based in Tai Koo Shing, in view of which the Administration proposes to negotiate with TelCo
no-commitment basis, in order to ascertain how such a scheme could proceed. The Administration will report back to the Council on the outcome of these negotiations in due course. Should any other parties make similar proposals to run pilot schemes in other areas the Administration will be equally disposed to negotiate with them, again on a no-commitment basis.
on
THE PROPOSAL TO ESTABLISH A BROADCASTING AUTHORITY AND A RADIO AND TELEVISION COMPLAINTS TRIBUNAL
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the
The Broadcasting Review Board considered that administrative and judicial functions presently held by the Television Authority should be separated in the interests of more effective control. .It proposed setting up a Broadcasting Authority largely composed of non official members to regulate and monitor the industry, and a Complaints Tribunal to resolve disputes in the industry and where necessary to impose penalties. In considering this recommendation on 4 February 1986 the Executive Council provided an initial steer in favour of a Broadcasting Authority but against a Complaints Tribunal.
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The Administration, after studying in more detail the whole concept of a Broadcasting Authority, accepts that there is considerable merit in allowing greater public participation in and control over the broadcasting industry and considers that the creation of an Authority as proposed by the BRB will be the appropriate means to achieve this. Such an Authority would more effectively regulate and monitor
and monitor the activities of the commercial broadcasting licensees, and would be able to play a major role in securing improved programme standards. is noted that the recommendation for a Broadcasting Authority has strong support from a wide cross-section of the public and from Legislative Councillors who took part in the Adjournment debate in March 1986.
It
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The Administration therefore recommends the creation and terms of It is proposed
of a Broadcasting Authority with composition reference similar to those proposed by the BRB. that the Authority should be composed of a majority of non-official members appointed by the Governor and chaired by a non-official. More precise details of the size, composition,
CONFIDENTIAL