ENG-1964 — Page 33

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EMPLOYMENT

much as three hours. Except where continuous production demands a rotation of rest days, which are usually unpaid, Sunday is the most common rest day. Many male industrial workers do not have a rest day but it is customary to grant unpaid leave on request.

LABOUR ADMINISTRATION

The expansion of industry has necessitated a growth of the Labour Department itself. In 1947 the department had a staff of 23 officers but by the end of 1964 the establishment had risen to 183. The Labour Department, in conjunction with the Registry of Trade Unions, is primarily responsible for carrying out Govern- ment's labour policy and the Commissioner of Labour is the principal adviser to the Government on labour and industrial relations. The Commissioner is ex officio chairman of the Labour Advisory Board, on which both labour and management are represented, chairman of the Standing Committee on Technical Education and Vocational Training, and a member of both the Radiation Board and the Port Committee. He is concurrently Commissioner of Mines.

All labour legislation is initiated in the department which also ensures that Hong Kong's obligations under international-labour conventions are observed. The registration of industrial under- takings followed by regular inspections is the basis for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions. The department conciliates in disputes between management and labour and offers advice on the establishment of appropriate machinery for joint consultation or negotiation. Trade unions are guided in their formation and classes are organized to assist union officials in accountancy and administration. Largely through the investigations of the factory and labour inspectorates and the health visitors, the department administers legislation governing workmen's compensation and the working conditions of women and young persons employed in industry. The department also provides training in supervisory techniques. Special protection is given to emigrant labour. Industrial safety is promoted through safety committees, talks by department staff and by means of films, posters and pamphlets.

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

With the exception of a small neutral and independent segment, workers' unions are either affiliated to, or associated with, one