CONFIDENTIAL
FINANCIAL AND STAFFING IMPLICATIONS
19
There are no direct financial or staffing implications.
XCC(91)191
PUBLIC REACTION
20
The Administration's preference not to mandate linkage between subscription television and a second telecommunications network, which was given a public airing recently, has been generally welcomed by interested parties including potential bidders and academics. A decision in favour of this preference can be expected to be generally well received. HKTC, however, is likely to renew its criticism of the prohibition on it providing a territory-wide cable television network. Informed opinion will however welcome this as evidence of Government's commitment to liberalise the telecommunications market and encourage competition in the provision of facilities.
PUBLICITY
21
There will be no publicity on the possibility of HKTC providing subscription television trunk transmission facilities. No Legislative Council brief on this matter will be issued. A press line will be prepared to answer possible media enquiries. The decision not to mandate linkage between cable television and a second telecommunications network but to maintain restrictions on HKTC's involvement will be publicised as part of the Administration's overall package of proposals for subscription television.
ATTENDANCE
Mrs A. CHAN
Mr J. SO
Mr A.S.K. WONG
Secretary for Economic Services Secretary for Recreation and Culture Assistant Postmaster General
11 December 1991 (ESB CR 9/1036/90)
COUNCIL CHAMBER
Executive Council