§ Mr. Bakerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what compensation is paid in Hong Kong to workmen affected by silicosis.
§ Mr. RowlandsCompensation is not generally paid at present to employees affected by silicosis. The Hong Kong Government are currently discussing with the Accident Insurance Association of Hong Kong a scheme whereby compensation would in future be paid under an amended Workers Compensation Ordinance. Government employees affected by silicosis are covered under existing arrangements.
§ Mr. Bakerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps are taken in Hong Kong to regulate conditions of apprenticeships.
§ Mr. RowlandsThe Apprenticeship Ordinance, enacted in February 1976, and subsequent Apprenticeship Regulations provide for the promotion and regulation of the employment and training of apprentices in designated trades and occupations, as well as such ancillary matters as apprenticeship contracts. This legislation is expected to come into effect in July 1976.
§ Mr. Bakerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps are being taken to ensure the safety and health of workers engaged in the tunnelling operations connected with the Mass Transit Railway in Hong Kong.
§ Mr. RowlandsWorkers engaged in tunnelling operations in Hong Kong are covered by existing safety legislation. In addition, a specially trained officer of the Factory Inspectorate has been designated to liaise with the Mass Transit Railway authorities on safety matters and the Labour Department has begun a series of courses on work in compressed air for the benefit of the employees of the Mass Transit Railway Scheme.