News has filtered out to Hong Kong's gay and lesbian communities that the government is preparing to openly debate the rights of homosexuals - cause for quiet celebration within a minority community which feels the bite of public discrimination more than most.
On the agenda is an ordinance barring discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Also up for discussion are issues relating to taxation, health and education, as well as possible recognition of committed same-sex partnerships.
To find out what Hongkongers think, a survey will be launched later this year or early next year to test public opinion on attitudes towards homosexuals and the need for an anti-discrimination law. The government wants to known whether societal attitudes have change since a 1995-96 survey, which showed widespread opposition to a sexual orientation discrimination ordinance.
Stephen Fisher, Deputy Secretary of the Home Affairs Bureau, said nothing would happen if the survey did not show Hong Kong attitudes had changed over the past decade. 'I don't think the Hong Kong SAR government will try to impose something like this on the community without at least 50 per cent support,' Mr Fisher said.
A successful survey will lead to a consultation paper and, if there is sufficient support within the Legislative Council, a bill will be put forward.
Gay activist Chung To, of the Chi Heng Foundation, said: 'I am quite confident we have over half [the community's] support. But while public opinion is important, protecting the rights of minorities should not be left to the majority to decide. That is the government's job.
