The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) today (16 September 2004) welcomes the Government's three-month public consultation on the legislative proposals for a racial discrimination law in Hong Kong.


Chairperson of the EOC, Mrs. Patricia CHU said, "Today's public consultation marks a closer step towards the introduction of a racial discrimination ordinance, enabling Hong Kong to meet its obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. I encourage all interested parties to raise their views and concerns regarding the proposals, so that these could be addressed in the legislative process."


"One of the recommendations is to entrust the administration of this piece of new legislation to the EOC. This is a logical move, as the EOC has accumulated a lot of experience in implementing the three existing anti-discrimination ordinances. The Commission will be prepared to demonstrate our commitment to the racial discrimination ordinance by implementing it. I should point out that sufficient resources and a reasonable lead-up time are the key to ensuring effective administration of the new ordinance," Mrs. CHU said.


The EOC will closely study the scope and content of today's Consultation Paper, and will issue a response before the end of the consultation period in December 2004.


Enquiry: Ms. Mariana LAW 21062226