Justice Secretary Paul Lam on Wednesday said the government is setting an example by including mediation clauses in all future government contracts, in order to encourage private corporations to resolve disputes by mediation first.

Speaking on RTHK programme Overview Policy, he said the government is taking the lead in promoting the mediation culture in Hong Kong.

“We have to build a mediation culture. To build a culture, you have to be persuasive and to take a step forward to change the mindset and habit in the society,” Lam said.

“Of course, I wouldn't say mediation will always be successful [in resolving disputes], but at least give it a try. If it doesn't work, you can try a different approach.”

Lam also said the government will promote the mediation culture to the public by launching the Pilot Scheme on Community Mediation.

“When people are encountering community disputes, they can sit down and discuss the problems first, instead of filing a lawsuit right away,” Lam said.

The justice chief said the scheme will be launched in several districts and the government will work with the local communities, so that the public can have a better understanding of mediation and have confidence in the system.