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The Government dismissed the comments made by the Hon. Emily Lau in her "Letter to Hong Kong" that was broadcast today (January 22).
"Trying to discredit the review of public service broadcasting and the Review Committee that is tasked with the review through the usual conspiracy theory would not contribute to a proper debate of the future development of public service broadcasting in Hong Kong," a Government spokesman said.
The Government intends to establish a clear policy framework that sets out the vision and plans for the future development of public service broadcasting in Hong Kong. The need for such a review recognises the lack of a clear policy on this matter at present and is necessitated by the phenomenal changes that have taken place in the broadcasting market in recent years.
"The review is therefore not about a particular broadcaster but a critical and objective examination of key issues such as the public purposes, funding and other institutional arrangements, accountability, governance and delivery of public service broadcasting in relation to the development of the broadcasting market and the impact brought about by rapid technological changes.
"We count on the members of the Review Committee who are independently minded individuals with ability, integrity and commitment. They have the relevant expertise and experience to lead the review in a transparent, accountable and responsible manner. We are grateful for their willingness to serve on the Review Committee," the spokesman said.
Noting that the Review Committee would engage the stakeholders, including the general public, broadcasters, and interested groups in the community, extensively during the review process, the spokesman pointed out that the Committee would, where appropriate, commission research into public service broadcasting and seek expert opinions locally and overseas.
"The Government has an open mind about the outcome of the review," the spokesman said.
Ends/Sunday, January 22, 2006
Issued at HKT 10:46
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