News Questions (1)

newspaper clipping :This year there are fewer women standing for election to district councils than in 2007. Are there fewer women than men in Hong Kong, or are women no longer interested in politics? In fact,Hong Kong population statistics show that more than 53% of residents are female this year (3792000 out of 7108000).Another interesting finding is that 50% of registered voters are women (1782000 out of 3560000), for the first time exceeding male voters. So women are the majority and are interested in politics by registering themselves as voters.

Although the governmenthas provided better
opportunities for women to participate in public affairs,women still account for a very low proporion of politicians.Only 18% oflegislative councilors are women (11 out of 60).For district councilors,the figure is 19% (78 out of 405); the ratio s even lower on theElection Committee,13% of whole members are woman (107 out of 796).

Time is the mainobstacle for women.Most woman work during the day and take care of family atnight.If such women perform their duties without support from others,it isimpossible for them to spend time on anything other than family matters.

The government ought tohave a target of having not less than 30% of women at all levels of statutorybodies and consultative councils. Most European countries ,and China,havesuch a target.The governmentshould increase resources to set up platformsand women’s centres to provide training and support for women to participate inpolitics.The government should also encourage community organizations toinclude more women in their standing committees.

It benefit society tohave female voices Many people believe women can balance the more aggressivenature of men,This is helpful and necessary for a harmonious society.

Question :

(1) Who are the majority of the Hong Kong population and are interested in politics by registering themselves as voters ? Explain your answer by using ONE example from the newspaper clipping .