Hong Kong provides level playing field for migrant workers

I refer to Kingsley Smith's letter ("Domestic helpers would benefit from changes to two laws", February 28).

Let me reiterate the Hong Kong government's commitment to safeguard the rights of foreign domestic helpers and the reasons for maintaining the "live-in requirement" and "two-week rule".

Hong Kong is one of the few places in the world which provides a level playing field for migrant workers with the same statutory labour rights as local workers. In seeking legal redress, they have full access to legal aid.

The six-year jail term imposed last month on the former employer of an Indonesian domestic helper vividly demonstrates that the Hong Kong government is serious in protecting foreign helpers.

In this respect, I note the editorial in The Jakarta Post on February 28 ("Hong Kong's justice"), which said, "Hong Kong has taken many legal measures to ensure the safety and protection of migrant workers, being much more progressive than others hosting migrant workers". This is a fair and encouraging recognition of our commitment in protecting foreign helpers.

We will enhance our efforts in raising helpers' awareness of their rights and the channels for assistance. The Labour Department will step up the policing of employment agencies and has strengthened collaboration with the relevant consulates. Any helpers with grievances should approach the authorities promptly.