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This is exactly how we have decided to proceed. On video on demand, for example, it was clear that we needed to put a regulatory framework in place as soon as possible, given Hong Kong Telecom's announced intention to introduce video on demand in July. Rather than delay this by working through the proposed Broadcasting Bill, we will be proceeding by way of an carly amendment to the Television Ordinance. On the pay TV market, we need to complete our review of this before the Wharf Cable's exclusivity period finishes at the end of May. So again we will be dealing with this issue, separately, as a matter of priority.

We are also giving priority to the amending powers to prohibit programming enshrined in Section 13C of the Telecommunication Ordinance. This is, I know, a matter of particular concern to your members. As you are aware, the Government undertook to carry out a comprehensive review of existing laws which might affect press freedom or freedom of expression and have taken considerable steps, particularly over the last two years or so, to repeal or amend those laws which are either obsolete or may threaten freedom of expression. Since 1992, the Government has examined 53 provisions in 27 ordinances. We have completed action on 43 of these and are now addressing the remaining laws. Section 13C of the Telecommunication Ordinance is one of these. The Government has taken the view that the amendment to this ordinance is a priority and cannot wait until the more complex and comprehensive Broadcasting Bill is ready. We will therefore be proposing amendments to Section 13C of the Telecommunication Ordinance as a separate issue and will tackle this alongside any other changes to that Ordinance which are likely to be needed following the publication of the Law Reform Commission's report on the interception of telecommunications and mail. Their recommendations are expected in a few weeks

time.

So any suggestion that we are somehow going slow on freedom of information issues is unfounded. On the contrary, we have gone out of our way to be as flexible as possible in dealing with legislation on these issues in order to accelerate progress.

Finally, on the question of changes to the rules on foreign and cross-media ownership, action is already in hand to address these. The Consumer Council has just released its recommendations on this issue, and the next step is for the Government and the public to have the opportunity to consider them. As with all competition reports commissioned by the Government from the Consumer Council, we are committed to responding to the Council's report within six months. We will keep to this deadline.