An international organisation for press freedom has called on the government's review of RTHK to ensure the strength and independence of public broadcasting in the city.
The International Federation of Journalists called for the government-appointed committee to apply a 'constructive approach' to the review.
Federation president Christopher Warren said committee should: include representatives with 'extensive experience in public sector broadcasting; conduct consultations with people from a range of fields; and ... have a clear focus on ways to improve and strengthen public service broadcasting in Hong Kong'.
'We urge the committee to aim to strengthen public sector broadcasting, which is a vital element of the media scene in many advanced countries, and we encourage an open and transparent review procedure, with hopes for an improved and independent station,' Mr Warren said.
Meanwhile, a submission by RTHK to the Legislative Council panel on information technology and broadcasting suggested that the broadcasters 'primary obligation' was to serve all audiences, including those with minority interests, through distinctive and high-quality programming in news, arts, culture and education.
'RTHK welcomes the review on public service broadcasting and will fully participate in the process,' it said. 'RTHK recognises that there is no clear policy on public service broadcasting in Hong Kong. According to a report by Unesco, public service broadcasting shall be independent from commercial or political interests.'
