XN000022-1996-07-05 — Page 27

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I am pleased to note that the report has made full reference to the comprehensive package of measures initiated by the Government since the outbreak of labour disputes late last year to improve the operation, and to strengthen the monitoring, of the Special Labour Importation Scheme for the New Airport Projects.

"As a result of these measures, the overall situation has improved significantly. Labour disputes involving imported workers under the ACP scheme are no longer a problem.

"However, we will continue to step up our efforts in monitoring the scheme closely to ensure its smooth operation. Meanwhile, all the previous labour disputes have been resolved.

"Over the past few months, the Government has also established close working links with those countries which export workers to Hong Kong for the ACP projects. In particular, we have forged a rapport with the relevant authorities in China.

"Arrangements have now been put in place to ensure that the interests of Chinese workers in the territory are well protected under the laws of Hong Kong".

End

Draft code of practice under discrimination laws discussed

The Equal Opportunities Commission considered it unfortunate that the public was led to believe that an undiscussed internal preliminary working draft of a code of practice under the Sex Discrimination Ordinance presented to a working group meeting, which needs much re-writing, represented the position of the Commission.

The Commission assured the public that any draft codes of practice would be thoroughly examined and debated within the Commission before it was released for public consultation.

During the process, it was the primary objective of the Commission to lay down guidelines which promote fair and lawful employment practices under the Sex Discrimination Ordinance (SDO) and Disability Discrimination Ordinance.