TNAG-0231-FCO40-267-Conditions-of-employment-of-labour-force-in-Hong-Kong-1970 — Page 43

CONFIDENTIAL

than that in this country, but any relaxation, particularly

on the employment of full time officials, would be likely to

help the communist unions rather than the right wing unions.

5. All official attempts to improve trade union structure

have foundered. At the end of 1969 there were 320 registered

trade unions in Hong Kong. The Goverment has tried to promote

ducation and at one time had a full time official

trade union

for this pur ose;

have made efforts, equally without much success. Following

the troubles of 1967, an adviser on Joint Consultation was

appointed to the Department of Labour. A survey was carried

out early in 1970 to ascertain the progress that had been made.

The results were encouraging showing that at least 220

organisations operate some form of Joint Consultation.

Departmental officers are now carrying out an intensive

international trade union organisations

programme of visits to other organisations which have expressed

interest. Legislation to provide for compulsory joint

consultation is being considered.

6. The wide powers given to the Registrar of Trade Unions

and the conditions with which trade union development is hedged

around derive in large measure from the desire to diminish the

subversive capability of the Peking unions.

7. Recognition of a union as the sole representative of

employees for negotiating purposes is not normal practice in

Hong Kong although some managements have working arrangements

with unions which amount to tacit recognition. However,

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CONFIDE. TIAL