2
4
Outlining the major provisions of the Sex Discrimination Ordinance, Mr Suen said both employers and employces would be affected by the ordinance which to a large extent set out new norms of behaviour.
In order to facilitate all parties concerned to better understand their rights and obligations, the Equal Opportunities Commission would develop Codes of Practice, in consultation with employer and employee organisations in respect of employment
matters.
Mr Suen said the Government expected to set up the Commission towards the turn of the year and to bring the provisions in the ordinance into force by phases.
As to legislating against other types of discrimination, Mr Suen paid tribute to Legislative Councillor, Ms Anna Wu, whom he said had done a lot for Hong Kong through her own initiative in promoting equal opportunities. "I think we have taken her lead in this very important area of work and where we differ is in the pace of development of legislation," he said.
Mr Suen stressed that it was important to take things step by step and the Administration had to make sure that the community is ready for it.
"The behaviour of people is not something that is susceptible to legislative measures. Education is far more important in this field," he said.
He added: "It would be wrong to say that if the Government feels unable to support Ms Wu's bills, it is equated to the Government not supporting the principle of equal opportunities."
He said the Administration had reservations on the readiness of the community in accepting a comprehensive legislative approach against so many different types of discrimination at the same time.
"We are concerned that the bills which seek to change the public's attitude and impose new moral standards, have not been put forward on the basis of wide public consultation.
"The community at large simply did not have a chance to discuss the principles and main issues at stake and to debate on the alternative courses of action to remove discrimination.
"As a result, the public at large are not aware of the impact of Ms Wu's bills on their daily life and the society as a whole," he said.