ENG-1997 — Page 164

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

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conducted 34 product tests, 55 in-depth studies and 15 survey projects with a view to collecting independent and impartial information to assist consumers to make the right choice. Some tests were conducted specifically in response to the enactment of new legislation on product safety.

The council works closely with the government through the Trade and Industry Bureau, and trade and professional bodies and was increasingly consulted on major policies affecting the interests of consumers such as the abolition of scale fees for conveyancing and copyright issues. The council, as an executive and council member of the Consumers International (CI), maintains regular contacts with its counterparts in the Mainland of China and overseas. At the 15th World Congress of CI held in Santiago, Chile, in November, the chief executive of the Hong Kong Consumer Council was elected CI's president for a three-year term. This reflects the world-wide recognition of the council's work in the protection and promotion of consumer interests.

Metrication

The government seeks to promote and facilitate the progressive adoption of the International Systems 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 HKSAR. Government departments 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 efforts towards the retail sector and young families. A Best Metrication Ambassador Team Competition was organised for scouts and students in order to increase their awareness of the adoption of metrication in their daily life. In August 1997, the committee took part in the 8th Food Expo. Metric conversion dials distributed and educational games at the Metrication Committee counter in the Food Expo were well received by thousands of visitors. Forty-eight scouts and students were appointed Metrication Ambassadors during the year in appreciation of their contribution towards various promotional activities organised by the committee.

Printing

A reputation for good printing quality, quick and reliable delivery, and competitive prices continues to boost the international status of Hong Kong's printing industry. Hong Kong is a leading centre for printing and publishing, with 4 873 printing establishments employing 45 844 people, and more than 200 publishing houses, including many from overseas which have set up offices or regional headquarters in Hong Kong.

The industry constitutes 18.5 per cent of all manufacturing establishments and 14.8 per cent of employment in the manufacturing sector. Most of the printing factories (68.7 per cent) are engaged in general jobbing work, and most of the remainder deal with related work, such as typesetting and book-binding. There are also 31 newspaper printers.