TNAG-1556-FCO40-2120-Broadcasting-in-Hong-Kong-1986 — Page 41

XCC (86) 182

RTHK AND CABLE TV

29

Page

10

In view of the large number of channels available on cable TV, potential cable providers are very keen to obtain RTHK programmes. Therefore, there should not be any problem over RTHK's access

cable TV channels. Detailed arrangements will be made when the tender conditions

conditions for cable TV licenses are prepared.

30

However, because cable TV is likely to cater for minority interests and in view of the time required to wire up the territory, RTHK's presence on off-air TV will still be

necessary.

IMPLEMENTATION

as

31

If the

the proposal to retain RTHK within the public service

the executive

arm of а

of Board

Governors is approved,

establish legislation will be new

the required to Board. As noted in paragraphs 10 and 18 above, an RTHK Ordinance will be enacted complemented by а Memorandum of Administrative Arrangements. It is proposed that a Provisional Board of Governors be set up as soon as possible to prepare this legislation and to lay the groundwork for the RTHK Board. The Provisional Board will be chaired by the Secretary for Administrative Services and Information and will include the

the Secretary,

Secretary

for District Administration and the Director of Education ΟΙ their

well as

It the Director of Broadcasting. as representatives, is proposed that up to four non-official members may also be appointed by the Governor to sit on the Provisional Board. enable early establishment, Provisional Board administratively.

Deputy

Financial

it is

to proposed

set

To

up

the

STAFF REACTION

32

In a

survey

conducted by the RTHK Programme Staff

the results Union which represents 85% of RTHK staff,

results showed that 58.8% of respondents were in favour of an independent RTHK. A decision to create a statutory Board

a statutory Board of Governors and for RTHK to continue to receive government funding will go some way to satisfying those staff who want an independent RTHK for

and reasons

who professional

see a continuation of government financial support.

wish

FINANCIAL AND STAFFING IMPLICATIONS

33.

No

to

of

financial implications a statutory Board of

significant staffing ΟΥ will arise from the establishment

Governors.