ENG-1995 — Page 148

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

During the year, the council responded to more than 180 000 consumer enquiries and processed 10 000 consumer complaints including 1 000 complaints from tourists. The settlement rate of consumer complaints stood at an average of 85 per cent of justifiable cases. The council also organised about 250 consumer educational activities at district level through the 16 consumer advice centres.

In 1995, CHOICE maintained an average monthly circulation of 30 000 copies and was a regular source of consumer information to the public, as well as providing a stimulus for media coverage on a wide range of consumer issues and concerns. The council conducted a total of 34 product tests, 50 in-depth studies and 12 survey projects in 1995 with a view to collecting independent impartial information to assist consumers to make the right choice.

The council works closely with the government through the Trade and Industry Branch, and trade and professional bodies, and was increasingly consulted on major policies affecting the interests of consumers, such as the Consultation Paper on Legal Services prepared by the Attorney General's Chambers. The council, as an executive and council member of the Consumers International, maintains regular contacts with its overseas counterparts.

Metrication

The government's policy on metrication seeks to promote and facilitate the progressive adoption of the International System of Units (SI) in Hong Kong. The Metrication Ordinance, enacted in 1976, provides for the eventual replacement of non-metric units by SI units in all legislation in the territory. Government depart- ments use metric units exclusively.

The Metrication Committee, comprising representatives of industry, commerce, management and consumer bodies, and government officials, is the focal point of liaison on all matters concerning metrication. It advises on and encourages the commercial and industrial sectors to develop metrication programmes.

During the year, the committee continued to direct its promotional efforts at the retail sector. It took part, for the second time, in the 6th Food Expo organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. The metrication counter set up at the Expo proved to be an effective channel in enhancing public awareness of the issue. The committee also joined hands with a cookery magazine in successfully organising a metric recipe design competition targeted chiefly at housewives.

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