52
HONG KONG ANNUAL REPORT
An increasing number of employers, however, accepting the provision of welfare facilities as part of the responsibility of management, go a good deal further than the bare minimum. Some provide additional benefits such as subsidized meals, free cooking facilities or canteens run on a non-profit-making basis, small stores with goods at controlled prices and free medical attention for workers, facilities which are in certain cases extended to their families as well. Free quarters or more commonly dormitory accommodation are sometimes provid- ed, and during the year two more firms have established housing projects for workers and their families. Smaller concerns often cannot afford such measures, but it is worth mentioning that normally even in the smallest factory a constant supply of tea or boiled water is available.
Some establishments organize picnic excursions, and stage and cinema shows. During the past year several firms have taken advantage of the Workers' Playtime Programme organized by Radio Hong Kong. Some employers arrange for free or subsidized schooling for workers' children and free classes for adults. Larger establishments have provided sports grounds and indoor recreation such as table tennis. Two old established firms have for some years had a welfare officer and welfare department; several firms have appointed one of their staff to take charge of personnel matters. One other firm has more recently appointed a Chinese woman as full time Personnel Officer.
Workmen's Compensation. The Workmen's Compensa- tion Ordinance, which was enacted in December 1953 and lays down minimum rates of compensation payable to work- men for injuries received in the course of their work, is now operating, on the whole, reasonably satisfactorily. Both employers and workers are becoming more familiar with its provisions. One amendment to the Ordinance made during the year is mentioned in the section on Legislation. Ex- perience has shown, however, that some further amendments