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We therefore consider it desirable to make it possible to prosecute first offenders as well as repeated offenders on indictment. I would like to point out that under section 92 of the Magistrates Ordinance, it is still possible to try both types of offenders summarily. The proposed amendment would therefore give the prosecution greater flexibility in choosing the most appropriate court for trial.

Thank you, Mr Chairman.

End/Wednesday, May 24, 1995

Tabling of Broadcasting Authority Annual Report

Following is the speech by the acting Secretary for Recreation and Culture, Mr Fred Ting, for tabling the Broadcasting Authority Annual Report in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Mr President,

I have much pleasure in laying the annual report of the Broadcasting Authority for the year ending 31 August 1994 before the Council today. The report marks another year of dedicated work by members of the Authority in grappling with the fast changing broadcasting environment at home and abroad; a job made more difficult by rising expectations amongst the Hong Kong viewing public and a rapid growth in the number of channels to be monitored.

The public hearings conducted in connection with the mid- term review of the television licences of ATV and TVB are testament to the good work done by the Authority in meeting these public expectations. It was greatly encouraged by the level and extent of public participation at these hearings and will seek, where appropriate, to utilise such fora to enhance collection of public opinion in the future.

Another important aspect of the Broadcasting Authority's function is to regulate the services provided by commercial broadcasters. The Authority has been highly vigilant and conscientious in maintaining our broadcasts at a high standard. During the year under report, the Authority's Complaints Committee dealt with a total of 1,382 complaints, and arising from these, some 18 warning letters were issued to various broadcasters to remind them of the need to observe more closely the different codes of practice issued. In addition, the Authority imposed on the licensees, on six occasions, financial penalties ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for breaches of the codes.