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Step-by-step Approach Wins LegCo Support
The Legislative Council has today (Saturday) voted against the three Equal Opportunities bills proposed by the Hon Anna Wu.
Speaking after the Legislative Council session, the Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Michael M Y Suen, paid tribute to the Ms Wu for her effort in promoting the principle of equal opportunities.
"It takes exceptional effort and commitment on her part to propose the bills, and she has no doubt enhanced public awareness of discrimination issues," he said.
Referring to the Legislative Council's decision in relation to the three bills, Mr Suen said: "I am pleased to see that our step-by-step approach in dealing with the issue of discrimination has been endorsed by the Council."
"I believe Members of the Council have exercised very sound judgement. For issues which have such far-reaching implications on people's everyday life, it is important that the general public is thoroughly consulted before we legislate for them."
Mr Suen reiterated that the Government fully supported the principle of equal opportunities and had taken positive steps to realise this goal.
As a next step, Mr Suen said the Government would soon initiate a study on discrimination in respect of age, sexual preference and family status. The study will include a thorough public consultation and the Legislative Council will also be consulted.
"The public consultation will cover the extent of the problems and the possible measures to address them, including the need for legislation as an option.
"In soliciting views on the legislative option, members of the public will be asked to comment on the scope of such legislation with reference to the Hon Anna Wu's bill, the time frame for implementation and the enforcement mechanism," Mr Suen said.
The Administration will commence the study and report to the Legislative Council on the findings of the study as soon as possible within the next Legislative Council session.