64
HONG KONG ANNUAL REPORT
by the end of the year showed that out of 44 firms on which information was provided, seven have welfare centres with full-time officers and assistants and 30 have provided or are providing quarters for their workers. In eleven cases accom- modation is supplied free of charge. 31 clinics were listed in the returns and in every case medical attention is given either at subsidized rates or free of charge. 18 of the clinics were for use by workers only; 13 were open to workers' families
as well.
Workmen's Compensation. The Workmen's Compensa- tion Ordinance, 1953, which lays down minimum rates of compensation payable to workmen for injuries received in the course of their work, is now operating reasonably satisfactorily. Both employers and workers are becoming increasingly familiar with its provisions. Experience sug- gests, however, that new amendments to the Ordinance may be desirable, and the matter is being studied.
During the year 4,776 non-fatal and fatal accident cases were dealt with, and a total of $1,177,747 was paid as compensation.
Industrial Training. Craft apprenticeship within the Government service is provided by the Kowloon-Canton Railway, the Public Works Department in its electrical, mechanical and waterworks branches, the Stores Department in its workshops, and by the Printing Department. Voca- tional training classes for coxswains and engineers are operated by the Marine Department for Government employees, and by the Fisheries Division of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Department for fishermen.
A new group of apprentices started work in September in the Public Works Department and the Kowloon-Canton Railway under the new scheme of recruitment and training which was introduced in 1955. Apprentices are selected by means of examination and interviews; they are required to sign indentures, and attendance at supplementary technical classes is compulsory; the boys are released from the