TNAG-0129-FCO40-165-Labour-legislation-1970 — Page 17

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VISIT OF DEPUTY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE

(SIR LESLIE MONSON

TO HONG KONG, OCTOBER, 1969

LABOUR LEGISLATION

16

Note No. 12

1

This is a background note. We have no points to raise; but Hong Kong may make enquiries about progress here in con- sidering the Illegal Strikes and Lock-Outs Bill (paragraph 8 below).

2. A wide ranging programme of some thirty items of labour legislation was approved by Executive Council in January 1968. Approval was given in general terms and individual items remain subject to the customary detailed consideration.

3.

The comprehensive nature of the programme and the time consuming process of preparing and passing the necessary legislation has prevented any spectacular progress.

4. One major piece of legislation the Employment Ordinance - has been enacted; this provides for the protection of the wages of employees and makes more precise provisions regarding con- tracts of service. This Ordinance is, however, being further examined by the Overseas Labour Adviser, to ensure that the obligations entered into by the Hong Kong Government in regard to such ILO Conventions as apply are being and will be adequatel;

fulfilled. Some amendments may be necessary.

5. The following legislation is expected to come forward in

the present session of the Legislative Council:-

(a) a bill to enlarge the scope and benefits of the

Workmens Compensation Ordinance.

(b) an Apprenticeship Bill.

(c) legislation to establish better priorities for

employees' earned wages when a firm is forced into liquidation or goes bankrupt.

CONFIDENTIAL

/ (a)