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It must be made clear that the existing law of Hong Kong already contains adequate provisions which would enable any racially motivated acts of violence (or the incitement to such acts), to be effectively punished. The criminal law of Hong Kong prohibits acts of violence of various kinds and the incitement of others to commit such acts.
Human Rights Education
It is our firm belief that the most effective way to combat prejudice and discrimination is to, through education, imbue young people in their formative years with proper understanding about and attitude towards people. In line with this conviction, human rights and the elimination of discrimination are taught through the formal curriculum, as well as through extra-curricular activities. Students are taught to understand the basic concept of human rights, and the culture, characteristics and achievements of different racial communities. Equal opportunities including equal opportunity for ethnic minority will also be the main theme of the Committee on the Promotion of Civic Education this year.
Special Measures for Vulnerable Groups
The Government is also prepared to take positive measures to look after the special needs of particular vulnerable groups of people. It has for example found it necessary to examine the extent to which foreign domestic helper's need for recreational outlets has been met with the existing level of facilities. Desirable venues have been identified to develop facilities that would meet the special needs of this segment of our community.
Government's Stance on EOB
Having deliberated all the measures that we have adopted, there can be no doubt that the Hong Kong Government is fully committed to racial equality. However, as I have already clearly pointed out, we think it is a mistake to legislate without knowing whether there is a problem.
Hong Kong is not a society driven by racial divisions. Before any legislative action is taken, Government must be allowed sufficient time to study the issue carefully, to allow people in Hong Kong to acquire an adequate understanding of the issue and to enable them to make an informed judgement for themselves when considering the best alternative as to the way forward.