TV station's woes could be a drama for the Hong Kong government
If staff aren't paid soon the station can forget about its licence, no matter what officials do
Christmas must have been difficult this year for the more than 700 Asia Television staff who haven't been paid for two months.
And with income tax bills looming, the broadcaster still hasn't given any indication of when staff will get their wages for last month and this. But this saga is not confined to the station. It could easily turn into a new political storm for the government.
For November alone, the total amount of outstanding pay is about HK$1.5 million. Staff from the news department wrote in an open letter last Sunday that the situation was "lamentable", especially as it comes at a time when other companies are handing out year-end bonuses and pay rises.
Meanwhile, ATV faces an uncertain future - and possibly liquidation - as it tries to find a new buyer and ensure its free-to-air licence is renewed. The licence expires in November.
Apart from its dedicated staff, that licence is perhaps the station's most valuable asset.
But as they wait for their pay cheques, staff morale is flagging. The news team have threatened to stop work if they are not paid by Wednesday - December 31 - and that could result in the station's licence being revoked. Under licensing conditions, ATV must provide a news service.