RTHK's Problems Go Back A Long Time: Ex-adviser

A former chairman of RTHK's Board of Advisers, Eugene Chan, on Friday hailed a government review of the station, saying the report compiled was comprehensive and fair.

He said the editorial management deficiencies identified have been long-standing.

“The detailed report has pointed out many issues of RTHK which could hopefully be improved in the future,” he said.

The review also noted that RTHK failed to proactively seek advice from the advisers.

Chan, who served on the board for 10 years and chaired the body for four years until 2020, agreed that the station and the advisers could have worked more closely to ensure RTHK's programme standards and quality were in accordance with the broadcaster's Charter.

“We had regular meetings. We’ve always offered our support… but it would be much better if it was done more proactively. Maybe some of the programmes could have been better,” he said.

Chan also said he saw no problem with the appointment of veteran administrative officer Patrick Li as RTHK's new chief.

He noted that the station was once headed by administrative officer Roy Tang, saying he had done a good job.

“The remaining people at RTHK which have media and broadcast experience will be able to support the director in deliberating his directions,” Chan said.

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