SUBSIDISED welfare groups have complained about disparities in fringe benefits given to their workers and government counterparts, saying they erode morale and lead to a high staff turnover.
They want Governor Chris Patten, in his policy address in October, to increase their medical and housing allowances.
In an unprecedented move, the Hong Kong Council of Social Service, which represents 229 non-governmental organisations, has drafted a 4,500-word submission for the Governor's 1995 policy address.
The paper, similar to the Governor's address but focusing only on welfare issues, has been submitted to Mr Patten and the head of the Central Policy Unit.
Copies have also been sent to the Chief Secretary, Anson Chan Fang On-sang, and related policy branches and departments.
Legislator Hui Yin-fat, the director of the council, said: 'We think we should be more active. We should take the initiative to make recommendations for the Governor in advance, instead of just reacting afterwards.
'We need a co-ordinating approach on welfare as a whole, not on single items.' In its submission, the council highlighted a wide range of welfare services, including those for the disabled, broken families, women, children, drug abusers and the elderly, as well as workers' benefits.