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Answer:
TV and radio are extremely influential mass media. They reach into virtually every household in Hong Kong. It is therefore important to ensure that they are not being used to give any particular groups or individuals undue influence or prominence. Given the very high cost for TV and radio advertising, allowing election candidates to place advertisements on TV and radio to promote their campaigns would give rich candidates significant advantage, and would place candidates with limited financial means at a disadvantageous position.
In the interest of open and fair elections, we believe a more equitable option is for Government to make use of some of the air-time available to it on TV and radio for candidates to introduce their platforms. We are now looking into how this might best be arranged for the Legislative Council elections in September this year, including the elections of the 9 new functional constituencies. In devising the arrangements, a central consideration will be to give candidates fair and equal access.
Although candidates for the Legislative Council elections will not be allowed to place advertisement on TV and radio, they will have access to the electronic media through air-time provided by Government. The relevant provisions of the Bill of Rights Ordinance governing the right to freedom of expression has been taken into account in this connection.
End/Wednesday, March 22, 1995
Unlicensed cinemas
The following is a question by Dr the Hon Tang Siu-tong and a written reply by the Secretary for Recreation and Culture, Mr James So, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
It is learnt that a number of cinemas in the territory have started operating before licences are granted by the Urban Council and the Regional Council. In connection with this, will the Government inform this Council:
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