14
The Media
A PRESS free from government intervention and restriction enjoying complete freedom of expression has made way for a healthy and outward-thinking media in Hong Kong.
The territory boasts one of the highest newspaper readerships in Asia and there is an increasing demand for top-class entertainment. The 81 cinemas screen the latest films, and some of the world's top entertainers have appeared on stage in local theatres.
Apart from 316 publications with a total estimated circulation of 1.5 million, there are two radio stations, and four television channels providing entertainment and information to an audience of some two million people. The purchase price of a radio or television is perhaps the lowest in the world and no licence fee is required for either. The price of newspapers remains, in most cases, a mere HK 20 cents.
In addition to their own sources of local and world news, all media receive news releases, radio bulletins, films and photographs from the Government Information Services. The department maintains a 24-hour service and provides news coverage of all major events.
Press
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Newspapers account for 113 of the 316 publications now registered with the Registrar of Newspapers, including four English dailies and 101 Chinese language newspapers. The combined daily circulation of the English language papers is estimated at 102,000, while the Chinese newspapers command an estimated circula- tion of 1.26 million. Of the 71 Chinese dailies there are three selling more than 100,000 copies each. Besides those concerned with general news, there are about 40 Chinese dailies whose content is solely entertainment orientated.
Periodicals represent the other main sector of Hong Kong's press. There are 201 such publications, divided into 54 English and 147 Chinese. These magazines cover a wide range of subjects, from the most specialised technical journals to local entertainment guides.
Some Chinese and English language newspapers are represented in the Newspaper Society of Hong Kong which has 19 members and four associated members. The society, formed in 1954, is empowered to act in matters affecting the interests of local newspapers, the society or its members.
The Hong Kong Journalists Association continued to develop in 1973. During the year the HKJA led the way in establishing the basis for a permanent training