XCC (89) 100
STAFF REACTION
23
In a survey conducted by the RTHK Programme Staff Union (PSU) in June 1989, to which 308 employees responded 65% were in favour of disestablishment, 21% against and 14% had no comment. 63% said staff should have a choice whether to remain as civil servants, 20% said all staff should be employed on new, independent terms and 17% said all staff should remain as civil servants. The survey shows a slightly greater proportion of respondents in favour of, but a significantly less proportion against, independence than in a similar survey conducted five years ago by the PSU. The previous survey showed that
that 58.8% of the PSU members were in favour of independence and 32.7% were against.
24
Major concerns of the RTHK staff will be over their security of employment, possible reduction in fringe benefits and promotion prospects. These concerns should to some extent be alleviated given that the staff will be provided with the option of retaining their civil service status in the new RTHK. They will also be concerned about their ability to adjust to the new environment. The tendency of staff to resist changes and to engage in tough negotiations should
be under-estimated. Any negotiations will have to be conducted cautiously to ensure that staff morale is not adversely affected and confrontation is avoided.
not
PUBLIC REACTION
be
25
During consult at ion on the BRB Report there was widespread support for a more independent RTHK. In the light of recent events in China, the public at large would more than ever wish to be assured of RTHK' s autonomy. However there may be reservations over the possible high cost of the hiving-off exercise. There may also speculation about Government's intentions from a political perspective. Specifically concern has been raised about the effect of the funding arrangement s on the degree of autonomy. The left wing press has expressed reservations in the past about the merits of making RTHK independent of the Government, but they may have changed their views in the light of recent events in China.
3
PUBLICITY
26
The RTHK PSU will be informed of the Council's decision, after which a press conference will be held and a press release issued to explain the proposed arrangements.
CONFIDENTIAL