Finally, paternity leave for Hong Kong dads

Hong Kong fathers will get three days' paternity leave.

Dads working for private companies will finally get to enjoy a benefit that fathers in the civil service have enjoyed for decades. Labour Minister Matthew Cheung said the labour advisory board, which consists of employer and employee representatives, has given the go-ahead for a three-day statutory leave period.

"I think this is a very good start. This is in line with the government's objective of promoting family-friendly employment practice," Cheung said. He did not, however, say when the draft bill providing for paternity leave will be ready.

Employers have fought against paternity leave, saying it will raise labour costs. And the Federation of Hong Kong Industries has linked the provision of paternity leave in Europe to the continent's debt crisis.

Mothers in Hong Kong allowed 10 weeks away from work and fathers in the civil service are given five day. Up until now, there has been no provision for paternity leave for fathers in the private sector.