TNAG-0785-FCO40-989-Study-of-labour-relations-in-Hong-Kong-by-Professor-H-A-Turn-1978 — Page 145

detailed analysis of arrangements for consultation over these core

elements of staff relations.

In brief, the constitution of the SCSC provides for a maximum of 16

members including joint secretaries from each side. A maximum of six

members are to be appointed to the official side by the Colonial Secretary

who also appoints the Chairman. The maximum number of staff side

members are appointed by the three "recognised" staff associations who

also choose a staff side leader. Leadership of the staff side usually

rotates on a 4-month basis. No restriction is placed on the frequency of

meetings.

The constitution specifies the consultative functions of the Council.

Government only commits itself to: "reaching agreement if possible between

the official and staff sides of the Council on any such matter generally,

and in particular on any changes in conditions of service whether prop-

osed officially or by the Associations, jointly or severally" (12)

Provision, however, is made for a form of conciliation and arbitration

in the shape of Indeperident Committees of Inquiry which can be appointed

at the Governor's discretion if both sides of the Council arrive at an

intractable disagreement.

Determinations reached by an Independent

Committee of Inquiry are not binding. The Governor-in-Council retains

the powers to decide on any 'recommendation' by the Committee of Inquiry

or refer the matter to the Legislative Council or the Finance Committee

for decision. Equally, a Committee of Inquiry is not necessarily binding

to the staff side:

(12)

1968 Agreement, op. cit., Paragraph 2 (1) (3). writer's italics.

Present