XN000022-1996-04-01 — Page 12

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Commenting on today's press reports which quoted the Hong Kong Employers of Overseas Domestic Helpers Association as saying that it found the publication "ambiguous" and could lead to more arguments between employers and FDHs, the spokesman noted that many guidelines published in the booklet are directly related to various provisions in the Employment Ordinance.

"As stated in the preface of the booklet, the Practical Guide intends to provide answers to some common questions received by the Labour Relations Service of the Labour Department during conciliation of disputes between FDHs and their employers.

"We have also reminded readers that they should refer to the relevant booklets published by our department if they require further information on the legal provisions," the spokesman said.

He added that guidelines contained in the booklet, if fully adopted by both employers and FDHs, would be practical in reducing many misunderstandings which might develop into undue labour disputes.

The spokesman disclosed that the Hong Kong Employers of Overseas Domestic Helpers Association had earlier expressed their views on the booklet and on the employment of FDHs through contacts with the Labour Department.

"We will consider their suggestions to see whether they are feasible in improving the labour relations between employers and FDHS.

"We advise employers and FDHs to call our enquiries hotline 2717 1771 or approach any branch offices of the Labour Relations Service if they encounter complicated problems relating to employment conditions," the spokesman added.

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Vast majority satisfied with present situation: HAB poll

A public opinion survey conducted in March by the Home Affairs Branch (HAB) has shown that 73 per cent of the respondents were satisfied with the present situation in Hong Kong.

Releasing the latest findings of the bimonthly survey, an HAB spokesman said today (Monday) that the figure represented an 11 percentage points increase from 62 per cent in January.

Sixty per cent of the respondents expressed confidence that the territory would continue to be prosperous and stable, up from 55 per cent.