HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL 11 May 1988
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react violently, abuse freedom by forsaking self-discipline and respect for others, all these are truthfully and realistically portrayed everyday in our most powerful and influential media. I cannot and will not be convinced that a force with such persuasive influence on thought, could be totally free of moral responsibility, particularly towards our young. Television, more than any other media, must be acutely aware of its power and the social resposibility that must accompany the exercise of that power; and no excuse should it allow itself to forgo that burden. Paradoxically, and in spite of producers' quests for realism, dramatic licence is often stretched beyond the limit of propriety, in scenes blatantly contrary to practices and conventions and truth of different trades, industries and professions in real life.
A recent finale of a controversial drama serial, depicting a courtroom scene, was the subject of serious criticism and ridicule in our legal and judicial circles, but was, at the same time, applauded by a great many young people who said they were deeply touched by its realism. Will these people ever know that what saw could never have happened in a courtroom in Hong Kong? Who has to answer for the ignorance that results?
Many, of course, would look to the Broadcasting Authority to act as the effective monitor. Although I have every confidence in the authority, I maintain it is the responsibility of the media to set its own standards and any external regulation should only be a safety net. I would, therefore, call on our otherwise very, very successful media to rectify this rather unsatisfactory but eminently important aspect under its direct control.
Sir, I fully support the formation of the proposed commission and, in its work to formulate a youth policy, due weight will be given to the training of leadership and independence in our young people. Furthermore, the develop- ment and effect of television will be recognised, hopefully, and allocated a place of prominence.
Sir, I support the motion.
DR. IP: Sir, I rise first to congratulate my colleague Rosanna, and the members of the Central Committee on Youth on their completion of the report on youth policy. I support their recommendation of setting up a commission of youth and feel that it is long felt needed.
There is no doubt that young people are important to our community. We have all gone through the period of youth and most remember it with pleasure and delight. But this is not so for some!
I would like to highlight some of the crucial findings of the report. 82 per cent of our youths spend most of their spare time watching television. Less than 42 per cent of our youths engage in physical activities during weekends and public holidays. 48 per cent of our youths feel under pressure of varying degrees. And only 64 per cent of our youths consider their future to be bright and encouraging! Is this how we want our youth to grow up?