THE MANAGEMENT OF RTHK is eager to corporatise the station and there are plenty of receptive ears, especially in media and academic circles. However, there is just one fundamental problem. Even sympathisers are not quite sure what exactly is meant by corporatisation.
RTHK is reported to be poised to co-host a series of forums with academic institutes on whether and how to hive off the station from the civil service bureaucracy. Hopefully, the exercise will bring this protracted issue closer to a conclusion.
Independence was first recommended in the 1985 Broadcasting Review, but the plan flopped because of China's objection. The proposition has resurfaced whenever the public broadcaster's editorial independence has been seen as threatened.
After almost 17 years of indecision, the public now has only a fuzzy picture of what an autonomous RTHK would entail. The public debate will become much more focused and productive if there is a solid proposal on the table.
In the 2002-03 fiscal year, the institution will get $515 million to run its public affairs and educational TV divisions plus seven radio channels. About half - or $255 million - goes as pay for 632 staff members, including seven directorate officers.
Last February, Secretary for Information Technology and Broadcasting Carrie Yau Tsang Ka-lai insisted corporatisation was not on the Government's agenda. Under the new accountability system, Mrs Yau's portfolio will soon be placed under the future Secretary for Economic Development.
If the demand to revamp RTHK is loud and popular enough, the new bureau director cannot simply play deaf. The appointee to head the enlarged bureau is, after all, meant to be responsive to public opinion. Now would thus be the most opportune time for RTHK to get the maximum attention of its future boss.