【明報專訊】YESTERDAY the Census and Statistics Department unveiled the findings of a wage survey it conducted in the second quarter of last year. The data have drawn much attention because they are important figures the Provisional Minimum Wage Committee will refer to in setting the statutory minimum wage. As it is not known what percentages of businesses' operating costs wage accounts for, it is not possible to decide now at what level the statutory minimum wage should count as reasonable. However, minimum wage legislation is new to Hong Kong, and the introduction of a minimum wage would have across-the-board impact on the business environment. In our view, initially, Hong Kong should put stability first. The authorities should set the statutory wage at a relatively low level to prevent shock and allow society naturally to adapt itself to the change. The system can be gradually improved later in the light of the reality.