The Code of Practice on Employment (the Code) under the Family Status Discrimination Ordinance (FSDO) is gazetted today (13 February 1998). The Code will be tabled before the Provisional Legislative Council (PLC) for negative vetting on 18 February 1998. If approved by the PLC, it is expected to come into effect by the end of March this year.

The Code aims at providing practical guidelines to employers and employees in complying with the law and drawing up equal employment opportunities policies.

The Code is issued by the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC). An eight-week public consultation on the Code was launched by the EOC between 22 October 1997 and 16 December 1997. Views and comments collected from the consultation were carefully considered and had been incorporated in the Code.

The FSDO has come into full force since 21 November last year. Under the FSDO, it is unlawful to discriminate against a person on the ground of his/her family status. Family status means the status of having responsibility for the care of an immediate family member.

Aggrieved persons may seek the assistance of the EOC. Upon the receipt of any complaint under the FSDO, the Commission will conduct investigations and encourage conciliation between parties in disputes to effect a settlement as far as possible.

Enquiry: EOC Hotline 25118211