HC Deb 21 March 1967 vol 743 cc1431-3
20. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what consultations he has had with the Governor in order to improve the conditions and hours of work of women and children in Hong Kong.

Mr. Bowden

During my recent visit to Hong Kong, I discussed with the Governor the subject of hours of work of women and young persons. He has amending legislation under consideration.

Mr. Rankin

Is my right hon. Friend aware that women and children in Hong Kong are liable to work a maximum legal week of 60 hours, plus overtime? Can my right hon. Friend assure us that the amending legislation proposed by the Governor will terminate this state of affairs?

Mr. Bowden

I am aware that under the existing regulation what my hon. Friend has said is quite right. It is possible for young people above the age of 16, and also women, to work a 60-hour week. In fact, however, a considerable number—I cannot give the actual percentage—work an eight-hour shift, because many factories—and I have visited one or two—work three shifts in 24 hours. The Governor is looking into the question of an alteration of the regulation, and the question is under urgent discussion.

Dame Irene Ward

Can the Minister tell us when the amending legislation will be made into permanent legislation?

Mr. Bowden

At the moment this is a matter for consultation between the Governor, the Legislative Council and industry in Hong Kong.

21. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs why Hong Kong is not to have an elected legislative council.

Mr. Bowden

Because of Hong Kong's special circumstances it is not possible to think of normal self-government in the Colony, or to consider an elected legislative council.

Mr. Rankin

Does my right hon. Friend agree that if is right that the black man in Rhodesia should have a share in running the affairs of his country it is also right that the yellow man in Hong Kong should have similar rights in running his country? Is my right hon. Friend telling us that human rights are conditioned by the geographical situation?

Mr. Bowden

That is a great oversimplification of the problem, as my hon. Friend is aware. The situation in Hong Kong is unlike that anywhere else in the world. Nevertheless, the Government of Hong Kong are considering an extension of the system by which people can be elected to deal with local authority matters and participate in what are regarded as neighbourhood activities It is difficult to go beyond that.

Sir G. Sinclair

Does not the Commonwealth Secretary agree that there is no demand by the overwhelming majority of the population of Hong Kong for a legislative council?

Mr. Bowden

It is the overwhelming desire of the people of Hong Kong—98 per cent. of whom are Chinese—to live in peace.

Mr. Rankin

On a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of my right hon. Friend's answer, I beg to give notice that I shall try to raise the matter on the Adjournment.