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Mr Suen said the Government's position in respect of addressing discrimination had been made clear to members of the Legislative Council on numerous occasions.
"It is very clear: anti-discrimination legislation is a new area of law in Hong Kong. The social, economic and legal implications of such legislation are not yet fully appreciated by the community at large," he said.
"It would not be prudent to legislate hastily without first giving the public a chance to examine the problems, analyse the policy options and assess their implications.
"We must also ensure the right social climate before seeking to impose new values and standards of behaviour on other members of our community."
Mr Suen said the Government was not rejecting the legislative approach in advance.
"However, we do have reservations about enacting comprehensive anti- discrimination legislation without careful consideration and full public debate.
"We firmly believe that a measured and prudent approach is required for Hong Kong's circumstances," he said.
Mr Suen noted that the Administration had made substantial progress in recent years in the cause of equal opportunities for all, and not just on the legislative front.
The Government has devoted a great deal of effort to public education to foster changes in attitude with respect to equality of opportunity and a culture of genuine respect for other people's rights.
"I am confident that the future work in this area will be just as successful.
"But we need the assistance and participation of all the parties, including the business community, that have an interest in the issues involved," he added.
Earlier, Mr Suen pointed out that the consultation document on age discrimination, which is being drawn up by the Secretary for Education and Manpower, would follow in a month or so.
He added that the Government would turn to the subject of racial discrimination following work on these areas.
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