Based on the opinions of some young professionals of the 30SGroup who have participated in a survey, Darren Lam reckoned that a minimum wage law could be detrimental to some businesses ('Minimum wage law could lead to closure of some businesses', December 2). But there seems to be some misunderstanding on the socio-economic issues behind such a law for Hong Kong. Long before the onset of the current economic downturn there were increasing calls for a minimum wage law in Hong Kong. These calls have been made because able-bodied people are working and yet cannot earn what they need to in order to get by in our 'world class' city. A class of working poor has emerged as our city has prospered. These people do jobs that do not require specific training, experience or skills but their services support the normal functioning of our society and businesses in Hong Kong. It is totally wrong to say that these workers are of low value economically. It is simply sheer exploitation for them to be paid wages that are below subsistence level. Mr Lam said the survey shows many Hong Kong people feel the government should not interfere with the market. But simply consider a market in disarray. Wouldn't governments the world over step in to make the necessary corrections? The present 'financial tsunami' is a case in point. Mr Lam said that almost half of the respondents in the 30Sgroup survey were concerned that a minimum wage would increase the unemployment rate of lower-skilled workers but he needs to define this group properly. Most jobs that require some training, prior experience or skills fall outside this 'working poor' category. Mr Lam expressed concern about what effect the minimum wage law would have on society, given the fact we are facing an economic downturn. As it takes time for the government to prepare any legislation such a law would probably not be enacted before the end of the present economic slump, so there is little point in speculating on what effect it would have at this point in time. Charles Chow Chi-man, Sheung Shui
