Director of Broadcasting Chu Pui-hing says RTHK's editorial independence is intact, rejecting suggestions of a cover-up in its dropping of live horse racing broadcasts.

Mr Chu told legislators today the decision to cut racing from its programming was made by nobody but the broadcaster. A number of factors were considered and a consensus among RTHK senior staff was reached in April and May. He said he informed the Commerce, Industry & Technology bureau of the consensus, adding the broadcaster initially planned to announce its decision in late June.

He said financial considerations and RTHK's plan to turn Radio One into a channel specialised in current affairs and infotainment were the two major reasons for ending racing broadcasts.

A different route

Acting Permanent Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology Marion Lai said as a public service broadcaster, RTHK should not preoccupy itself with competing with commercial broadcasters, or producing programmes already supplied in abundance by others. She said RTHK has an advantageous position in producing high-quality programmes, trying out innovative ideas commercial broadcasters may feel inhibited about.

For continuous improvement, the Secretary for Commerce, Industry & Technology and the Director of Broadcasting keep RTHK programming under review to fulfil its role as a public-service broadcaster. Mrs Lai said RTHK enjoys editorial independence, which has been well protected in the framework agreement signed between RTHK and the Government.

On expenditure, Mr Chu said cuts in RTHK made it difficult to pursue a number of development plans, including digital broadcasting and facility replacement. Mrs Lai added other Government departments also experience similar difficulties.