CONFIDENTIAL
XCC(91)194
PUBLIC REACTION
30
The general public will welcome a clear indication on the way forward in subscription television, particularly proposals that will increase the choice and quality of television viewing in Hong Kong. The liberalisation of satellite TV will be welcomed, but there might be calls for further deregulation. Those who have asked for public consultation can be expected to repeat their calls. Potential licence bidders would welcome the Government's more flexible approach. Views would, however, differ on some issues such as royalty payments and restrictions on SMATV systems.
PUBLICITY
31
Once the Chinese have been notified of our intentions (paragraph 26 refers), we will issue a Legislative Council brief. We will thereafter hold a Press Conference to explain the outcome of our review of television broadcasting, our proposals for the subscription TV licence, and for an early mid-term review of the licences of TVB and ATV. The press conference will also provide an opportunity to advert to the BOR implications and that the Administration is respecting them. The position envisaged for satellite television broadcasters will also be explained. We expect to hold the Press Conference after Christmas, at which we will also formally invite interested parties to bid for subscription TV licences when the terms and conditions are ready, which is likely to be in late January 1992.
ATTENDANCE
Mr J. SO
Mrs A. CHAN
Ms E. SHUM
Mr M.H. AU
Mr C. BARR
Secretary for Recreation & Culture Secretary for Economic Services
Commissioner for Television and Entertainment Licensing
Assistant Postmaster General
Senior Assistant Crown Solicitor
11 December 1991
[RCB(CR) 4/3/53(91) Pt.14]
COUNCIL CHAMBER
Executive Council
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