TNAG-1078-FCO40-1328-Policy-of-the-Hong-Kong-Government-on-television-services-1981 — Page 10

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The Television Advisory Board, at paragraphs 7 to 9 of its report, has also considered the question of the licensing of further television stations and has recorded its view that this would be inappro- priate until such time as the overall profitability of the television industry improves and the viability of the present two-station situation is assured.

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Given the confidential nature of parts of the Board's report on the renewal of the licences of TV B and RTV, it is not intended that the od report should be published. However, the 7th Report of the Television

Advisory Board covering the progress of television broadcasting in Hong Kong during the period July 1978 to December 1979 will include a review be of the performance of the stations and make public the Board's recommen-

dations in broad terms. It is expected that the 7th Report will be tabled before the Legislative Council in May or June 1980 at which time the Secretary for Home Affairs will make a statement on Government's intention to renew the two licences and on the changes in legislation and terms and conditions proposed.

Public Reaction

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The Board's recommendations on the terms and conditions to be imposed on the licensees on renewal of their licences reflect public concern and criticism about television standards, particularly in relation to the portrayal of excessive sex and violence on the television screen, and the use of unsuitable language. They should therefore be generally well received, although inevitably there will be criticism from some sectors that the proposals have not gone far enough in ensuring maintenance of proper standards. It is expected that the proposals concerning children's programming and family viewing periods will be widely welcomed.

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Consultation

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As made clear in the report, the Television Advisory Board has had meetings with representatives of the stations and has made known its proposals for the terms and conditions to be imposed on the licensees in the future,

Timing

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Following the Council's decision on the Board's report and recommendations, the licensees will be informed of Government's intention to renew the licences subject to the terms and conditions proposed and subject to continued satisfactory performance during the

CONFIDENTIAL

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