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12.
The Government received a petition signed by nearly 6,000 tobacco retailers who expressed concern that a ban on tobacco advertising would harm their livelihoods.
Other Recommendations
13.
Many of the submissions from organisations made refreshing reading as they went beyond the four or five "hot" topics which have enthralled the public over the last six months.
Minority Interests
14.
A number of submissions called for more programmes tailored to suit the deaf, more subtitling, a provision of radio programmes specifically to meet the needs of the blind, and more programmes for the benefit of, and promoting respect for the elderly. Substantial criticisms were levelled at the commercial broadcasters for failing to cater for disadvantaged and minorities, the programmes for whom could not attract large advertising revenues. Equally strong views were expressed about the quality of children's programmes, and the BRB's recommendations in this area were warmly endorsed.
Licence Period
15.
Although a majority were in favour of a shorter broadcasting licence to enable more effective control, some professionals in the broadcasting field made the point that a shorter licence would make broadcasters reluctant to invest in major, expensive productions, especially when nearing the expiry date of the licence, and so programme quality would suffer.
Alcohol Advertising
16.
There was only limited support for further restrictions on alcohol advertising.
Sex
17.
While some submissions deplored the negative presentation of human relationships, and the over-emphasis on infidelity, divorce and concubinage in some Chinese progammes, one organisation deplored equally the double standards of the government censors in allowing a high level of violence on TV yet cutting even the most sensitive portrayals of sexual relationship.
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