XN000022-1995-01-20 — Page 13

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"Within a matter of four months, we completed the drafting of legislation against sex discrimination and introduced the Sex Discrimination Bill into the Legislative Council in October 1994," he said.

The bill, designed to prevent injustice to an individual's prospects on account of his or her gender, is now under the scrutiny of a Bills Committee.

"We hope to see the enactment of the Sex Discrimination Bill in 1995 and to set up the Equal Opportunities Commission as soon as possible after the enactment of the bill," Mr Suen said.

In keeping with community aspirations expressed during the Green Paper public consultation exercise, the bill takes forward the principle of outlawing sex discrimination and sexual harassment in areas of activity including employment, education, provision of goods and services, and the disposal and management of premises, Mr Suen said.

Furthermore, discrimination on the ground of marital status or pregnancy in the employment field will also be made unlawful.

Under the bill, an independent statutory body known as the Equal Opportunities Commission (comprising not fewer than four and not more than 16 members) will be established.

The commission will be tasked with the responsibility of eliminating sex discrimination and promoting equality of opportunity between women and men. It will also provide assistance to persons who have been subject to unlawful discriminatory practices or sexual harassment.

Another important function of the commission will be the development of codes of practice in the areas of activity regulated under the bill. These codes will provide practical guidance for parties concerned to comply with the legislation.

"We are convinced that the Equal Opportunities Commission will be effective in eliminating sex discrimination and sexual harassment. The enactment of the Sex Discrimination Bill will guarantee members of the community the opportunity to make the most of their potentials to participate fully in all aspects of life.

"While individual attitudes and organisational culture cannot be changed overnight, the institution of the bill is a major step forward in securing a fairer environment for free competition in Hong Kong by setting acceptable standards of behaviour and focusing public attention on the importance of upholding gender equality.