TV licences handled fairly

October 20, 2013

The Government understands public views and will complete work on TV licence applications in a fair and prudent manner, the Commerce & Economic Development Bureau says.
 
In response to media enquiries today, the bureau said it will implement policies to facilitate creative industry development.
 
The Government understands the public's concerns on the free TV licence applications outcome, and respects people's rights of expression on the matter, it said in a statement.
 
Under a gradual and orderly approach for introducing competition in the free TV market, the Chief Executive in Council has examined and considered all applications, adhering strictly to procedural fairness, before making a decision.
 
The Government reiterates it wants to introduce competition and provide more programming choice for audiences, while ensuring healthy and orderly market development. There is no question of protecting existing interests, nor is there any political consideration involved.
 
The Government was notified four days ago that an application was filed for leave to apply for judicial review, the details of which are not appropriate to be made public as they could affect legal proceedings.
 
In line with the established system, Executive Council meeting discussion content is not made public, and in this case involved commercially sensitive information or even the three applicants' commercial secrets. Releasing such information could cause damage and lead to legal disputes.