XN000022-1995-07-19 — Page 32

7.

In addition, six foreign and local broadcasters are using Hong Kong as a base to uplink their TV services to the Asia Pacific region while two reputable international broadcasters - CNN and CNBC - have also set up their production centres here. "This rapid development and growth of the broadcasting industry in Hong Kong in the last five years is a clear testament to the soundness of our broadcasting policy, and the attractiveness of our broadcasting regulatory environment," said Mr So. "If our broadcasting regulatory environment is not well defined, clear, open and fair, we would not be able to attract so many local and foreign broadcasters to establish their broadcasting services in Hong Kong.

"The fact that so many of them are now established in Hong Kong is a clear indication that we have already become a broadcasting centre in Asia."

Despite this, Mr So admitted that there was still potential for growth in Hong Kong's broadcasting industry, especially in the subscription TV market.

But he was quick to add that the Government would not want just to throw open the market to all although it was Government's declared policy to deregulate the subscription TV market after Wharf Cable's exclusivity ended on May 31 next year.

To do so would be acting irresponsibly as it was likely to create confusion and chaos, he warned.

"We should first assess what impact deregulation of the subscription TV market would have on the Hong Kong broadcasting industry as a whole and then decide how best the market should be deregulated in a structured and orderly manner, with minimal impact on both existing and potential broadcasters.

"To do this, we have decided to carry out a major review shortly with the help of an independent consultant. We expect this review to be completed in early 1996, in time for us to license new subscription TV broadcasters once Wharf Cable's exclusivity runs out," said Mr So.

The motion, as proposed by the Hon Man Sai-cheong, was passed.

End/Wednesday, July 19, 1995