TNAG-2923-FCO40-4198-Visits-and-proposed-visits-by-Alastair-Goodlad--Minister-of--1993 — Page 15

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Background

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RMENT HOUSE HONG KONG.

3.

There is criticism that differential

treatment for male

and female indigenous villagers in the Nev Territories are discriminatory

against women.

Certain practices which are observed by the indigenous villagers in the New Territories reflects traditional Chinese Customs. For example, only heads of households, who are mainly male, are allowed to vote in elections for village representatives.

Only male indigenous villagers are entitled to applying for small houses. The New Territories Ordinance provides that the court shall have power to

recogaise and enforce

Chinese customs in

relation to land in the New Territories.

Differential treatment for men and women in rural areas reflects traditional Chinese customs and practices. Government respects the values held by indigenous people but recognise that such values change with the times and attitudes of people.

Stepping up public education will help cultivate a balanced attitude towards woman's position. The Green paper on Equal Opportunities which itself is an educational tool covers the question of the rights of indigenous female villagers. We are keen to listen to the views of the public on this.

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