There is overwhelming support for a shortened working week, a survey of decision makers has found, with 86 per cent agreeing with a five-day week for the private sector and 59 per cent supporting the same deal for government workers.
In the latest SCMP/TNS Opinion Leaders Survey, 43 per cent of respondents believed a shorter week would have no impact on Hong Kong's competitiveness, while 19 per cent thought it would boost the city's competitiveness. Thirty-six per cent believed the move would harm the city's competitiveness.
James Shung Lap-kung, of City University, said many people had been caught off guard by the government's rushed implementation of the five-day work week arrangements. This was why only 59 per cent of respondents supported the scheme for government workers, he said, and suggested it be given more publicity.
Professor Shung also suggested that in the next phase of the scheme the government should involve the Post Office in collecting government fees, levies and public housing rents, to absorb the overflow from government offices.
The survey - the third in a monthly series commissioned by the South China Morning Post - was conducted from July 11 to 19 on various aspects of the five-day week. The five-day week for civil servants was introduced from July 1, so far benefiting 73,500 workers.
However, two in five respondents were concerned that the move would have a negative impact on the efficiency of the government, while 40 per cent expected no impact on efficiency.
