PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Friday, March 1, 197^
CONTENTS
Pago No.
Fivo-fold increase in Marriage Registry fees from June 1 ..... 1
Various promises on Tsing Yi Island will be liable to rates as from April 1 ••••••........................................
Sone JO acres of new land is being formed in Shau Ki Wan for community projects...................................... 4
Recruiting drive of prisons officers kicks off this Sunday ... 5
Fire Services offering challenging career for qualified young men ........................................................ 6
Nev/ Appointments to Board of Education announced.........••••• 8
Yau Ha Tei open carpark will be closed from Monday ••••.......... 9
Crown Lauds and Survey Office moves to new promises............ 9
Hong Ning Road cleared to make way for a playground............ 10
********
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: 7j_1J p.m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Friday, March 1, 197^
. - T -
WEDDINGS AT MARRIAGE REGISTRIES TO COST MORE
««*«****
The cost of wedding at the Marriage Registry will be raised from June 1 this year - for the first time in nearly 100 years.
A revised scale of fees charged under the Marriage Ordinance is published in a notice in today’s gazette.
Commenting on these increases, the Registrar General, Mr. Walter Hume, said they were needed because the Marriage Registry was running at a considerable loss under the existing scale of charges.
"On the basis of the present fees, a loss of approximately $2.3 million would be incurred by the Registry for the current financial year," he said.
"This is perhaps hardly surprising when you consider that the marriage fee of $10 now being charged was set in 1876.
"Obviously it would become increasingly uneconomic to continue operating the Registry for an income so out of keeping with the costs,
,rThere are now 13 full-time Registries and a number of part-time Registries in operation," Mr. Hume pointed out. "The cost of running the Registries lias increased considerably in recent years."
The main increases in the revised scale relate to the giving of notice and the actual marriage ceremony in the Office of the Registrar. These foos will be raised from $2 and $10 respectively to $10 and $50. Accordingly the total fees payable in respert of a Registry marriage vnl~l increase from $12 to $60.
"The new costs represent only a small proportion of the total cost * I . I
of most weddings when you take into account the expenses for hospitality and entertainment * that invariably follow," said Mr. Hume.
Friday, March 1, 1974
- 2 -
WING OF TSING YI ISLAND AND NGA YING CHAU
*********
A number of owners and occupiers of premises cn Tsing Yi Island and the adjacent islet of Nga Ying Chau will become liable for rates as from April 1 this year.
Commenting on this, the Commissioner of Rating and Valuation, Mr. R.A. Fry, said that this was in accordance with the government’s policy of extending the urban rating system to developing areas, as announced by the Financial Secretary in 1972 and again mentioned earlier this week in the 1974 Budget.
The new rating area covers the major developed parts of Tsing Yi Island including the power station, a number of factories and several of Hong Kong’s largest oil storage depots. Copies of the plan, showing the extent of the new rating area can be seen at the offices of the Rating and Valuation Department, 1, Garden Road and at the District Office, Tsuen Wan.
The percentage rate charge on rateable values for this new area will, as stated by the Financial Secretary, be 11 per cent for the first four years and, thereafter, that is in 1978, be brought into lino with the other urban areas, which are presently rated at 15 per cent.
It was, however, emphasized that Tsing Yi town and the neighbouring villages which are not yet developed in accordance with a town plan have been excluded from the new area and owners and occupiers of such premises will not bo required to pay rates at this time. Agricultural land which is entitled to exemption will likewise not be subject to rate charges.
/tsing Yi
0
Friday। March 1, 197^ - 3 -
Tsing Yi Island, which is now linked by a road bridge to the mainland, will be the first area of the New Territories to be rated on the urban system since the Castle Peak Road/Tsuen Wan area was added in 1956. The Financial Secretary has indicated that further rapidly developing areas will be rated in duo course, and it is hoped to make a start on Yuen Long and Tai Po this year.
The valuation list for the new area will be formally declared, as required under the Rating Ordinance, by the Commissioner on Friday, March 8 at 12.15 in the offices of the Rating and Valuation Department. It will then bo handed over to the Accountant General. 4
The list, which shows the premises assessed and their rateable vnluos. will be displayed from March 9 to 29 at the Treasury Offices in the Central Government Offices, West Wing, 2nd Floor, Hong Kong. A copy will also be available for reference by the public at the Tsuen Wan District Office.
During this period of 21 days, any person may take an extract from the list and any parson who disagrees with the inclusion or exclusion of premises in the list or the amount of rateable value assessed may servo on the Commissioner a proposal to amend the list. If the Commissioner does not agree to a proposal there are also rights of appeal to the District Court.
Notices, setting out details of assessments, were sent out today (Friday) to the owners involved and the Valuer concerned will be available at the department’s head office, 1, Garden Road, should any ratepayer wish to discuss his assessment.
The Commissioner added that the new rating area has a total rateable value of just over 320 million and will produce additional revenue of some 32 mill ion per annum.
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A.........
Friday, March 1, 197^
30 ACRES TO BE RECLAIMED AT SHAM SHUT PO
Work To Continue Round The Clock
*********
Work on a- 8*12.5 million contract is now under way at Shm Shui Po to proved© a 30-acrc reclamation off Tung Chau Street on which a. new ferry concourse, and other projects, including three secondary schools and a civic centre will be built,
A section of the West Kowloon Corridor Rond project which will link Tong Mi P.oad to Yen Chow Street through the Tai Kok Tsui district will also be constructed on the reclamation.
The 900,000 cubic yards of filling material required for this reclamation is being brought from a borrow area at Shek Kip Mei to the east of Nan Cheong Street.
Because of the serious traffic congestion which exists in this part of Kowloon, it would be extremely difficult to convey this material through the streets in the hours permitted under the Summary Offences Ordinance•
If the contract were restricted to normal working hours delays in the projects which are to be built on the reclamation would be inevitable.
To avoid this situation arising the Executive Council have granted exemption from Section B of the Ordinance to permit work to be carried out on a 2^hour a day basis up to March 1975 •
The work will be restricted to the excavation, loading, transporting and placing of filling material.
/Every effort ..«•••
Friday, March 1, 197^
- 5 -
Every effort will be made to minimise the disturbance to local residents by restricting night operations to sections of the borrow area, which are farthest from the Shek Kip Mei residential area.
Whilst some inconvenience may be caused by this work there will also be some benefits to local residents in that:-
* the overall period of inconvenience will be reduced;
* it will be possible to make an earlier start on the Community Projects planned for the reclamation; and
* the amount of traffic during the day time will be reduced.
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PRISONS OFFICERS RECRUITING CAMPAIGN
***»«**»
Note to Editors: A press conference to launch the Prisons
Officers Recruiting Campaign will be held by the Commissioner of Prisons, Mr. Tom Garner in the 55 can theatre, Government Information Services Department, 5th Floor, Beaconsfield House, on March 5 (Sunday), at 12 noon.
Also present will be Mr. Lo Kwok-kuen, Senior Superintendent (Narcotics), and Mr. John Law Yiu-wing, Principal Officer (acting).
You are invited to send a reporter and/ or photographer to cover the meeting.
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/6........
Friday, March 1, 1974
- 6 -
FIRE FIGHTERS SOUGHT
********
Young non interested in a challenging career are being sought by the Fire Services .Department to fill vacancies in the rank of Assistant Station Officer/Station Officer.
Vacancies will be advertised tomorrow (Saturday) and applicants given initial interviews at Fire Services Headquarters, North Point, the following Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
There are 46 vacancies, representing 14 per cent of the total Assistant Station Officer/Station Officer establishment.
A spokesman for the Fire Services said today there is normally no shortage of applicants when such jobs are advertised, but, because high standards arc demanded, only a small percentage are finally selected.
■Intakes' could be increased by lowering standards, but we could never seriously consider this,” he said. ,rBy maintaining our present standards, we ore certain of taking into the Service men of the calibre to make first class fire officers.”
He pointed out that the type of man most likely to be selected would bo both physically and mentally strong and, because of the increasing technology of fighting fires, academically well qualified.
,fFire officers are constantly having to study to keep up with the latest techniques and equipment,” he said.
/The spokesman ••••••••
Friday, March 1, 197^
The spokesman said that, besides fighting fires, Assistant
Station Officers also had supervisory and administrative duties to perform. Expansion of the department over the next few years ensured promotion prospects for the officer prepared to work hard and study to become qualified.
The starting salaries for officers vary from 81,570 per month
to 81,855 per month, depending on educational qualifications. The maximum pay for an Assistant Station Officer is 82,070 per month.
On being appointed, a recruit officer attends the Training
School at Pat Heung in the New Territories for a six-month residential course covering different aspects of fire fighting. At the end of the course, he has to pass a final examination before posting to a fire station for operational duty.
The officer is on probation for the first three years of service,
after which, provided he has carried out all his duties satisfactorily and passed the required examinations, he is confirmed to the permanent and pensionable establishment- He is also advanced to the rank of Station Officer, the salary scale for which is 82,510 - 83,910.
Officers are expected to maintain a high standard of discipline and turnout.
0 - -
/8
2k»iday, March 1, 1974
<« 8 «
BOARD OF EDUCATION IiAS TWO ICT MEMBERS
Two new members of cht Bc-ard of Education have been appointed by the Governor.
They are the Rcoan Catholic Bishop of Eong Kong, the Most Rev* Peter Wang^kei Lei or his representative„ and Mro C,Fe Sung, Managing Director of Hong Kong EL<wr Mills, Ltd,
Their eppoin-cnent as Board membore-is pa
gazette.
Rev* Er. Derek Reid. 5Prir^poi of Web Yan Colley
will represent the Roman Cev.hol±c 'Bztehop a > future meetings of the Board*
Mr* Sung succeeds Mr* Jack C. Tung, Fbo has x*esigned from the Board*
The other members of the Beard xemain janebanged* They are;
Mr. Woo Pak-chuen, Senior Unofficial Member of Legislative Council (Chairman) ?
Director of Education, Mr* John Canning (Vtce Chairman) $
Bishop of Hong Kong. Right Rnv^ Gilbert Baker dr his representative $
Vice Chancellor of the University of Hong ’Kong, Ur* Rayson Huang or hie PGpre^n
Vice Chancellor c.t the Chinesxe Unix -rslty of Hong Kong.? Dr* Li Choh-ming or hir» representative.
General Secretary ol the Hong Kong Counc .tl of the Church of Christ in China, Rev* Petor Wong or hJ.s rep/Teseacatj-ve;
Director of the Hong Kong Po^.yrooxuiic; M s C*1h» Old xr his representative
Mr. Liu Yui>’Gt!ii]9 Chairman of Sheung Shvl Rural Committee and Super/iso^o^luv.Jtn^^ . .v-SchoalSx?evng Shui;
/fe’o R.IL, Ihbo ■•**t-*<*©
Friday, March 1, 1974
- 9 -
Mr* R*H* Lobo, Unofficial Member of Legislative Councilj
Mrs* Joyce Symons, Unofficial Member of Legislative Council and Headmistress of the Diocesan Girls’ School;
Mr* P*G* Williams, Unofficial Member of Legislative Council*
The Board’s Secretary is Mr. Morris Morgan, Assistant Director of Education*
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CLOSURE OF YAU MA TEI OPEN AIR CAR PARK
******
Motorists are advised that the open air metered car park in Kansu Street between Shanghai Street and Temple Street, Mong Kok, will be closed to parking from 8.00 a.m. on Monday (March 4).
The closure of this car park is io facilitate piling works for the Yau Ma Tei Multi-Storey Car Park, Stage II.
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CROWN LANDS OFFICE MOVES
******
The Crown Lands and Survey Office of the Public Works Department has moved to new premises on the 9th floor of the Murray Road Multi—storey Car Park in Central. The telephone number is 5-260061.
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/10........
Friday, March 1, 197^
' - 10 -
HONG NING ROAD CLEARANCE
A large piece of Crown Land at Hong Ning Road, Kwun Tong, was cleared today (JYiday), by the Housing Department and handed over to the Urban Council for development into a public playground.
The clearance operation, involving the demolition of 231 -illegal squatter huts which were built there recently was smoothly completed by 3 p.ru
A total of 639 people who claimed to be homeless were accommodated m transit centres at Queensway, Chai Wan, and Wong Chuk Hang,
A •
Another 2,000 who were eligible for re-site accommodation have . * r "> '•
already moved to Sai Cho Wan during the past few days*
The Housing Department also made available a fleet of lorries and about 300 labourers to assist people in the removal of their personal effects.
0
0
Friday, March 1, 1974
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guido To Wholesale Market Pricca And Supplies ♦
Tho following prices wore realised today (Friday) at etllea undor tho Rice Control Scheme and at tho Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and tho Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Choung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Supplieo and Wholesale Pricca of Rico
» Grade China Rico Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (fl/catty) i
Average
„ old crop Soo cw ~ new crop •• •B
S.C.Jion - old crop ••
Po Ilgai
Chu Cho •
Thai Pico laxHsiblo ■W ••
10-15# Brokcns •• •
A1 Super Extra Ml
A1 Super Good . 1.42
VZholo dutinouo M
• U.S. Pico Good 1.74
Australian Pico ••
Pakiotan Rico • *• •' •*
Taiwan Rico Good , • 9 1.47 • /Supplies and •••
Friday, March 1, 197^
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Species ( Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (8/catty)
• High Low • Average
Golden Thread Good 5.50 3.50 4.20
Big-Eyes Good 2.70 0.80 1.80
Squid Limited 6.00 3.50 4.00
Hair-Tails Good J.oo 1.00 1.80
Lizard Fishes Good 2.40 1.10 1.80
Croakers Normal 2.50 1.20 ’ 1.80
Conger-Pike-Eels Good 2.80 2.00 2.30
• * Melon Coat Normal 2.80 1.30 1.80 •
i Breams Limited • 5*20 3.50 4.50
Yellow Belly Normal 1.60 0.80 1.20
Mackerels Good 4.80 3.50 4.00
Red Goat Fish • Good 2.20 0.70 1.80
Fork-Tail Normal 1.60 1.20 1.40
Horse-Head Normal 5-50 3.80 4.50
Melon Seed • Normal 2.80 2.00 2.60
Pocrfrcts •• •• ••
Garoupas Normal 6.00 5.00 * 5.50 I
Yellow Croaker •• •
• • -
/Supplies and
Friday, March 1, 197^
Suppli<?H and Wholesale* Prices of
Locally Produced Vegetables
Availability Wholesale Price
Tyne of Sunplj___ r (8/catty)_____
nigh I<ow Average,
Flowering cabbage Limited 2.4 0.8 1.6
White cabbage Normal 0.6 0.2 0.4
Chinese Lettuce Normal. 0.8 0.2 0.5
Chinese Kale Limited 1.8 0.8 1.4
Spring onion Good 0.5 0.2 0.4
Spinach . Normal 1.2 0.5 0.8
Water otogo ; Normal . 1oO 0.2 0.6
Loaf mustard cabbage Limited 0.7 OoJ 0.5
Toziato Limited 1.5 0.5 1.0
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight)
Availability Wholesale Price
of Supply ( 8/ picul) _
• . , (Average)
Pork Good ’ 3°°
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PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Saturday, March 2, 1974
CONTENTS
Page Not
Ccranerce and Industry Department to issue quota allocations
on Monday •••••••••••••••••................................
Interest-free loan to the Kadoorie Agricultural Aid Loan Fund extended for a further five years...................... 2
There will be a D.I.B. issue on Sunday ••••••••••••••••••• 3
Four lots of Crown land to be auctioned this month ••••••• 4
Italease. time: 2.30 ptm.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Saturday, March 2, 197^
- 1 -
ISSUE OF QUOTA ALLOCATIONS FOR PLASTIC SHARE-OUT
The Commerce and Industry Department will begin issuing quota allocations on-Monday, March 4, to plastics firms which have qualified to receive supplies of two essential raw materials under a share-out scheme.
Allocations will be issued initially for two types of polystyrene •• high impact and general purpose.
About 500 firms have qualified to receive allocations of this material. The quotas amount to 95 per cent of the March supply requirements submitted by each firm
It was estimated originally that the quotas would amount to 80 per cent but this figure has been raised in the light of revised calculations based on the amount of polystyrene available for allocation.
Firms qualifying for the share-out will receive authorisations tc present to a specified supplier within 14 days of receipt.
Arrangements are also being made for a share-out of polyethylene . and quota allocations will be issued shortly.
Over five million pounds of polystyrene and polyethylene have been made available for allocation by importers and the larger manufacturing firms.
The aim of the scheme is to-'help smaller plastics firms facing difficulties in obtaining sufficient"supplies. About 1,100 firms will benefit from the share-out, which is being made on a ’’once and for all” basic...
The distribution of materials has been worked out by a committee • * • A *
comprising representatives of trade and industrial associations, the major importers of raw materials ana the Commerce and Industry Department.
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Saturday, March 2, 197^
- 2 -
KADOORIE AGRICULTURAL AID LOAN FUND
*»****«»
The Finance Committee has approved the extension for a further five years of an interst-free loan of $500,000 to the Kadoorie Agricultural Aid Loan Fund*
A spokesman for the Agriculture and Fisheries Department explained that because of rising costs of farm equipment and feedings tuffs, the total amount of money on loan to individual farmers rose from $1>8 million in 1968/69 to $3»2 million at the end of last year.
The purpose of the Kadoorie Agricultural Aid Loan Fund is to make loans available to farmers at low interest rates for improving livestock, developing land and fish ponds, and purchasing livestock feed, building materials, seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, machinery, irrigation equipment, and various other farm requirements*
The cost of farm production has been on the increase in recent years due to the rising costs of labour, feeds, fertilizers and veterinary medicines. Mechanization and new farming techniques are being adopted at an increasing rate by the New Territories farmers in order to reduce labour costs, but this requires considerable capital investment on equipment such as rotary cultivators and sprinkler irrigation, which were almost unknown here until introduced by the Agriculture and Fisheries Department six or
soven^years ago,
Saturday, March 2, 1974
- 3 -
The spokesman said that there was a continuing need for this Loan Fund which helped fanners maintain or expand production of vregotables^ poultry, pigs and flowers at costs which were low enough to compete against unrestricted imports.
The Loan Fund was established in 1955 with a capital of $500,000, half of which was donated by Sir Lawrence and Mr. Horace Kadoorie, and the other half was met by the government. Further grants by government have brought its total donation to $2 mill ion, while another sum of $500/300 was generously donated by the Kadoorie brothers.
The 35001000 loan which is now renewed was originally granted to the Loan Fund in February 1969 for a period of five years, repayable by February this year. •
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v
SUNDAY D.I.B.
NQtejto. Editors: There will be an issue of the-Daily
Information Bullet in tomorrow (Sunday) • Copies will be available for collection at 3 p.m. that day from the G.I.S* Press room, 6th floor, Beaconsfield House.
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A
Saturday, March 2, 1974
- 4 -
CROWN LAND SALES
*»*»»**
Four lots of Crown Land with a total area of nearly 60,000 square feet will be auctioned later this month#
The first lot of 10,000 square feet at Pan Long Wan, Clear Water Bay Road, in the.New Territories will be restricted for private residential development#
The auction will be held at the Sai Kung District Office, San
Po Kong Government Offices, Prince Edward Road, on March 19 at 2*30 p.m.
Further details ar? available from the New Territories
AdminIstrat.i on, North Kowloon Magistracy, Tai Po Road or from the District Offices, Yuen Long, Tsuen Wan, Tai Po, Sai Kung and Islands, International Building, Hong Kong.
A separate auction will be held for the other three lots.
Two of the lots in Lai Chi Kok Road which have a combined area of nearly *10,000 square feet will be for godown or industrial purposes.
The third lot, in Chai Wan Road, has an area of more than 9,000 square feet and is to be developed for private residential purposes.
The sales will be held in the City Hall on March 29 at 2.30.
Details are available from the Public Enquiry sub-office at Central Government Offices (West Wing) or at the Crown Lands and Survey Office at tho Nathan Road Kowloon Government Offices.
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I
PRH 7
FKlIiiM GI5| |»
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Sunday, March 3, 197^
ATTRACTIVE NEW PUBLICATIONS FROM GIS
Three new colour booklets have recently been published by Government Information Services. They are An Introduction to Hong Kong, High Island, and Social Welfare in Hong Kong.
Written and designed by GIS the booklets are both colourful and interesting.
An Introduction is what it says. It is a ’must1 for any visitor r
as it gives the complete background to Hong Kong as well as tips on what to do and see. . , „ .
It also makes interesting reading for the residents with its 30 attractive fullr-page colour photographs. It is pocket-sized and is obtainable from the Government Publications Centre or leading booksellers at 81.30 a copy.
High Island, also full of excellent colour photographs, describes the massive 81,300 million reservoir project and the story hphind it. Apart from being of general interest it is a useful source of technical information on Hong Kong’s‘reservoir in the sea’.
The High Island booklet is in full colour and uses a large up-to-date format. It is available free of charge from the GIS Marketing Office in Beaconsfield House.
/The third •••••••
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Heng Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Sunday, March 2, 197^
- 2 -
The third booklet is on Social Welfare in Hong Kong, It also / uses a large square format with biAck and white photographs used to good effect, giving a complete picture of the varied work of the Social Welfare Departments It can be obtained free from the Social Welfare Department or from GIS. A Chinese version of this booklet is expected to be ready within one month.
These three booklets represent just a few of the many produced each year by the Information Services and printed by the Government Printer.
During the past 12 months GIS has also produced 30 new leaflets in the popular Ihct Sheet scries. This bilingual series covers not only most government departments, but almost every aspect of Hong Kong. They are attractively designed and contain a wealth of information on Hong Kong.
Note, to Editors: Copies of the booklets are now available
for collection in the Press Room, Government Information Services Department, Beaconsfield House, sixth floor.
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Release times 2.30 p.m.
•• • . 'V ' . I •; n.
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Monday, March 4, 1974
CONTENTS
Pa/39 No,
Legislation setting standard for medical laboratories technicians in private companies under consideration • •••• 1
Secretary of Social Services to open new ambulance depot at Yau Ma Tei..........................................
Suggestions for developers to help solve shortage of housing for government servants....................
Export of restrained cotton textiles to Germany........
Governor pays tribute to community leaders at spring reception • • .....................................
Piling work for new Post Office in advanced stage ........
Fourteen buildings in Western to be pulled down to make way for new hawker bazaar •«••••*.
2
3
4
5
6
7
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: 7«3O p.ru
Issued by Governrpent Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Monday, March 4, 1974
1
TRAINING FOR MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIANS Improving Standards Of Service In Private Sector - ********
The Government is at present giving consideration to the introduotion of legislation to improve the standards of service in medical laboratories belonging tp private companies.
One of the objects of this legislation would be to lay down minimum standards for all medical laboratory technicians and to set higher standards for those carrying full responsibilities in medical laboratories.
It is recognised that many workers in laboratories have received * little or no training beyond that given on the job by their employers, and it'is felt that more than this.is required in the public interest.
Those people without formal training or qualifications at present working in medical laboratories who are unable to enter existing part-»time course conducted in English at the University of Hong Kong Extra-Mural Studies Department will have the opportunity of achieving the minimum required standards by- taking a part-time extra-mural course, scheduled to start in April at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, where the instruction will be given in the Chinese language.
The cost of the whole course, lasting one year, will be $1,200. It is intended that those who pass the course should be eligible to apply for registration as medical laboratory technicians.
The .course is not intended for those in charge of medical laboratories who will be expected already to have reached a higher standard of attainment. Only one such course is scheduled, and it is in the interest of all eligible persons to undertake th-in course.
/It is ........
Monday, March 4, 1974
2
It is hoped that, in the comparatively near future, Chinese-* language courses will bo operated in addition to the existing English-language courses to enable school-leavers to qualify for registration.
At that time, only those so registered will be allowed to start work as nodical laboratory technicians and eventually to proceed to a higher-level course to qualify then to be in charge of a medical laboratory.
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OPENING OF NEW AMBULANCE DEPOT
4t 4c * * ♦ * *
Note to Editors: The Secretary for Social Services, Mr. Li Fook-kow,
will officially open a new ambulance depot at Yau Ma Tei on Wednesday (March 6) at 10.30 a.m.
You are invited to send members of your editorial staff to cover the opening of the depot which is situated at 44 Waterloo Road (opposite the Y.M.C.A.)
Mr. Donald Strange of the Fire Services Department will bo present to assist your staff if necessary.
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Monday, March 4, 197^
- 3 -
INTERESTING .SUGGESTIONS FOR REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS By Secretary For The Environment *********
Two interesting suggestions for property developers to help government solve its continuing shortage of accommodation for its own employees were made by the Secretary for the Environment, Mr. James Robson, today.
Mr. Robson was speaking at the annual dinner given by the Real Estate Developers Association.
One of the suggestions is that land would be sold with a requirement for the developer to produce under his scheme a certain number of flats which government could use for housing its staff.
He said: "Such an agreement would meet both the developer’s current shortage of money, and the government’s needs.”
Another suggestion will enable private developers to carry out large development projects for government with payment being made in land.
”If the developer got at least a portion of his land early in the scheme he could put up housing for sale and thus generate his necessary cash flow while helping the housing shortage,” Mr. Robson said.
With all the expertise assembled there this evening, he said it should bo possible to devise ways and means to maintain the momentum of the building industry and break away from the traditional stop-go pattern* » «• i
Hr. Robson said he was not suggesting that all ”our problems will be easily resolved”.
’Mo do have difficulties with, labour and material cost, not to mention the lack of supply.
"But they are not new problems and in my opinion given your co-opcration they are not insoluble,” he added.
/Turning to ••••*•«
Monday, March 4-, 1974
- 4 -
Turning to drills and pile-drivers used by the developer, Mr. Robson said that they should be fitted with silencers. Costing only about a hundred dollars each, the silencer could cut down the noise by about a half.
He called on all property developers and building contractors to initiate anti-noise campaign on their individual work sites without waiting for the legislation which he intended to introduce.
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EXPORT OF RESTRAINED COTTON TEXTILES
To Federal Republic Of Germany
******
The Director of Commerce and Industry today issued a notice to exporters regarding the implementation of 1974 ’’Free Quota” Export Authorization Scheme II for export of a certain category of restrained cotton textiles to the Federal Republic of Germany.
Trade associations and companies on the Commerce and Industry Departmentfs mailing list for Notice to Exporters Series 3 (European Economic Community) will receive copies of the above notice shortly.
People who wish to seek advance notice to its contents are invited to contact the following officers of the Coramerce and Industry Department.
. Mr. N.C.C. Chan - Assistant Trade Officer
Tel. No. 5-229777
Mr. Y.H. Law - Industry Assistant
Tel. No. 5-228513
Copies of this Notice to Exporters are also available from the receptionist counter on the ground floor of the Fire Brigade Building, Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong. n
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Monday, March 4, 1974
- 5 -
GOVERNOR PAYS TRIBUTE! TO COMMUNITY LEADERS
******
The Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose, today paid tribute* to Hong Kong community leaders.
Speaking at the annual spring reception held at the Peninsula Hotel, Sir Murray described the parts they played in community work during the past year as intensive and fruitful.
”If the community as a whole works with one purpose, a great deal can be achieved,” he said.
Following is the full text of the Governor’s speech:-
”1 am glad to be here with you this evening at this annual Spring reception.
”1 know that the parts you have played in community work during the past year have been intensive and fruitful. Since last year the Home Affairs Department has energetically encouraged community involvement in achieving good order and cleanliness in our city, by means of various campaigns organised by the Government. I am most gratified by the ready assistance you have given.
”As the saying goes, ’it is difficult to get things done single-handed, but what is supported by all can easily be accomplished’• If the community as a whole works with one purpose, a great deal can be achieved.
"May I personally thank you all for what has been achieved, and ask you to drink a toast with me to a Happy and Successful New Year.”
--------0--------- «
/6.........
Monday, March 4, 1974
- 6 -
PILING WORK FOR NEW GPO NEARING COMPLETION
******
The General Post Office will stand on a new site with an area nearly double its present size when it moves from Pedder Street.
The site, to the north of Connaught Centre and between Blake Pier and the Star Ferry Concourse, takes up 40,000 square feet. The existing site occupied by the 6>-year-old building is about 23>OOO square feet.
Piling work for the new GPO started last month and is now nearing completion. The actual building work will begin in May and should be completed by the end of next year.
With a total area of about 180,000 square feet, the new office complex will have space for a comprehensive range of services.
On the ground floor will be the main parcel office and associated parcel sorting areas and loading and unloading facilities.
The main public hall and some 15»000 post office boxes will be on the first floor, which also accommodates a mail sorting office.
On the second floor will be the main mail sorting office, and on the third and fourth floors administrative offices for the post office headquarters and welfare facilities for the staff.
The new building will be provided with up-to-date mail handling equipment to improve mail flow, and to enable the work to be handled more efficiently.
-------0---------
/7 .......
Monday, March 4, 1974
- 7 -
MORE BUILDINGS IN WESTERN TO BE PULLED DOWN
Part Of Urban Renewal Scheme
Fourteen buildings in the Western District will be pulled down as part of the government’s redevelopment plan, to make way for a hawker bazaar in the future.
A senior estate surveyor with the Public Works Department, Mr. H.C. Tam, said that under the Urban Renewal Pilot Scheme, (Phase II) for the Western District, the government would demolish No. 6 to 16, Fat Hing Street and No* 42 to 46, Queen’s Road West.
The cost of the demolition work is estimated to be <>140,000, and tenders are now being invited.
This piece of land will eventually be used for a controlled hawker bazaar.
"This will be the only permanent site for a hawker bazaar within the scheme,11 said Mr. Tam. "It will be allocated to Urban Services Department for hawkers within the district."
The bazaar, with an area of about 7,000 square feet, will accommodate 74 fruit and vegetable stalls and 237 stalls of various types*
Additional space will be provided to accommodate hawkers at present operating outside this immediate area.
-----0-----
Monday, March 4, 1974
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guido To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
The following prices were realised today (Monday) at sales under tho Rice Control Scheme and at tho Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Haricot and tho Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Rice
Grado Availability of Supply^ Wholesale Price (fl/cutty)
China Rice Average
.. w old crop See Hew _ Good 2.0
- new crop
S.C.Jion - old crop • Good 1.9
Po Ilgai Good *■
Chu Cho Good •
Thai Rice
100^ Wiofe Good mb
10-15# Brokens Good •»
A1 Super Extra Good ••
A1 Super Good 1.5
Whole Glutinous Good MB
U.S. Rice • Good 1.82
Australian Rice Good w
Pakistan Rice .Good ••
Taiwan Rico Good t BM
• /Supplies and ••
Monday, March 4, 1974
Supplies and T.hnlcsale Prices of Marine Fish
Species • Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (8/catty)
ITi-h Low • — — «• Average
Golden Thread Good 4.8 5.0 4.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.6 0.6 1.8
/Squid Limited 6.2 2.5 5.0
Hair-Tails Normal 2.3 1.1 1.7
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.5 1.2 1.8
Croakers Good 1.9 1.0 1.5
Congor-Pikc-Eols Good 1.85 1.4 1.7
Melon Coat Good 2.7 1.6 2.0
Brearja Normal 4.5 3.5 “.0
Yellow Belly Good 2.1 0.7 1.5
Mackerels , Limited 5.0 3.2 3.8
Ped Goat Fish Good 1.7 0.8 1.1
Fork-Tail Normal 1.5 1.1 1.4
Horse-Head Good 5.5 3.2 4.2
Melon Seed Normal 3.1 • 2.5 2.8
Ponfrvts — — -
Garcrupas Normal 8.0 5.0 7.0
Yellow Croaker —
/Supplies and
Monday, March 4, 197^
Supplies. and Wholesale Prices of ’/locally Produced Vegetables
Sts Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (fl/catty)
Low Average.
/ Flowering cabbage Limited 2.2 4 0.8 1.6
White cabbage Limited 1.2 0.4 0.8
Chinese Lottuoe Limited ' 1.0 0.3 0.7
Chinese Kale Normal 1.6- 0.6 1.2
Spring onion Normal 0.8 0.2 0.5
‘Spinach Normal 1.2 0.4 0.8
Water cross Normal 1.0 0.3 0.6
leaf mustard cabbage Limited 0.9 0.3 0.6
Tomato Limited 1.6 0.5 1.2
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight).
Pork
Availability otjSupplx___
Normal
Wholesale Price ( fl/ picul.)
(Average)
• 500
0
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Tuesday, March 5i 1974
CONTENTS
Page No
Consultants advise on feasibility of oil refinery/pctro» chemical plant on North Lamna • • • ......••••••••••••••••••• 1
Statement on rice supply situation ,««.•••••••••••••• 4
Standardisation of aerogramme format from April 1 •••••«••«•• 7
Satisfactory response in first phase of anti-polic campaign^ 8
Director of Commerce and Industry to visit two factories tomorrow •••••••••••••«•............................... • • 9
Farewell lecture by visiting American professor of social studies .......................10
********
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release .time: _7»3O p*n>
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Tarsday, March 5, 1972*
- 1 -
SUGGESTED OIL REFINERY
Petrochemicals Complex On Inmma Island
The Consultants’ report on the suggested oil refinery and petrochemicals plant on Lamma Island concludes that they can bo designed and operated to bo completely acceptable environmental 1 y, provided there are both strong protective legislation and Government control and there is proper management.
Announceng public release of the report by the London based consulting chemical engineers, Cremer and Warner, u Government spokesman emphasised that no decision had been made on whether to go ahead with the nroposel.
The residents of Lami.ia Island have been informed of the contents of the report and copies have been sent to the applicant companies, the Shell Cor.r>any of Hong Kong and Textile Alliance Ltd. The latter company submitted a joint suggestion for a refinery-petrochemicala plant with the TOA Oil Company of Japan (TAL/TOA).
•’The applicant companies,” the spokesman said, "have now to examine the report and decide if they wish to submit firm proposals to the Government.”
”j.f cither of them do so,” he said, ”the advantages and disadvantages will be presented to the public in a Green Paper before a final decision is made by the Government.”
’•The consultants have made it clear," the spokesman continued, "that they do not consider there is room to accommodate more than ono oil refinery and one petrochemicals plant on North Lamma.”
/"The full .....
Tuesday, March 5» 197^
- 2 -
<«Tho full implications of the suggested plants on the lives
and homes of the people of Lamma is a matter of great concern,” he stressed "and now that the feasibility of siting the plant on North Lamma has been established a detailed examination into this aspect is being made."
,TThero must also be a detailed assessment of the fire hazards and of land formation problems,” the spokesman added.
Interested non-Govornment bodies and associations are also being
sent copies of the report•
In September 1972, the Government appointed Cremer and Warner
to advise on whether material environmental and pollution damage would bo likely to result from the establishment of an oil refinery in Morth Lanria* A summarised form of the consultants’ report was published on October 31, 1973, in a Government booklet called "An oil refinery for Lamma Island?”
In their latest report Cremer and Warner say that ,rNorth Lamma is uniquely the most appropriate site in the entire colony," the principal criterion being the close proximity of deep water approaches for largo oil carriers. The site would involve reclamation of a large area of
Luk Chau Wan.
The consultants also say that if the Luk Chau Vian site is adopted "it w-m still be most desirable to dispose of treated aqueous wastes off the west side and to have a local products barge-leading harbour off Yung Sliau (Shue) 'Wan (as in the Shell proposal)*"
On marine risks the report says that shipping movements of hazardous cargos should be "totally controllable"* It recommends prohibiting the manuf nature of caustic soda/chlorine on the site using the mercury process.
/Cremer and
Tuesday, March 197^
- 5 -
•t. •
Cromer and Warner recommend the concept of ’’best practicable means” os used successfully in the United Kingdom he employed to effect control of iiasardous aerial emissions. They conclude that ”the appropriate technologies do exist which, if correctly implemented, would provide adequate safeguards against all the potentially obnoxious aerial discharges that might arise.”
The consultants have strongly recommended that adequate control be given to the executive of Government to ensure that all industrial installations arc disciplined so that they do not affect the quality of the environment.
The report concludes that a refinery/petrochemicals plant could be accomodated on Lamma Island and that there would bo major changes in land shape and use. However, with controls, the disposal of all wastes could be achieved with virtually no risk to the surrounding communities.
-------0---------
/l^ ........
Tuesday, March p, 1974
STATEMENT ON RICE SUPPLY SITUATION
**««*»-
The Commerce and Industry Department today issued the following statement to clarify the rice supply situation, and the functions of the rice control scheme
STOCK
Rice stocks of all grades are completely adequate to meet any consumption demand in Hong Kong® There are over 74,000 tons in stock and a- great deal more in the hands of wholesalers and retailers® Normal consumption is about 1,000 tons a day, therefore there is at least 74 days1 supply in stock.
Rice is arriving in Hong Kong at a satisfactory rate and there is no fear at the present time of any serious reauction in our stockpile and therefore our ability to continue to meet demand.
The second quarter quotas will be issued shortly., These will ensure an adequate supply and stockpile.
PRICES
The Government, through DC & I, has a legal control over registered importers which, although designed to ensure a satisfactory import and sale-for-consumption pattern, also enables the department to have an influence on the prices for the various grades of rice offered by importers to wholesalers.
DC & I does not have any legal control over prices at the wholesale and retail level, although it is possible for the department to instruct importers not to sell rice to any wholesaler found to be seriously specul a ting on prices.
/DC & I can .*»••«<
Tuesday, March 1974
- 5 -
DC u I can ensure that wholesalers take delivery of rice purchased iron importers, and these figures are watched very closely to prevent speculative stock piling by wholesalers. To this end the department is able to restrict credit offered by importers to wholesalers.
It may be seen therefore that the rice control scheme is basical l.y a scheme to ensure supplies of rice to meet Hong Kong’s consumption demand and is not a price control mechanism. Nevertheless, the Government lias a responsibility in a controlled system of this kind to ensure that the interests of the general public are properly looked after and that companies participating at various levels of transaction in rice sales are not able to manipulate the control procedures for speculative purposes. UNDERCOVER PAYMENTS
The department has been seriously concerned about reports of price and supply speculation. For many months visits by officers of the department have been paid to importers* promises to witness sales and to retail outlets to examine prices. The three main retailers’ associations have boon .asked many times to report to the department any instances of undercover payment demands by wholesalers or any other supply arrangements not considered normal or reasonable.
The department has been willing, and is willing, to investigate any such complaint and if proved has the ability to take action against the wholesaler concerned. But it has received no co-operation from retailers and the retail associations have made no complaint — verbal, written or anonymous — to the department about what they now allege is a widespread practice of undercover additional payments for rice deliveries from wholesaler
/DC & I
Tuesday, March 5? 197^
- 6 -
DC & I has neither heard from the wholesalers individually nor through their association about any alleged failure by importers to sell rice to them, nor have the wholesalers attempted to answer public allegations by retailers about undercover payments.
The department is now urgently considering further measures to ascertain the truth of the allegations made publicly by the retailers against wholesalers and to this end a senior officer of the department will be meeting representatives of retailers, wholesalers and importers on March 6.
-------0---------
i'ULL AIRMAIL RATES FOR UNAUTHORISED AEROGRAMMES From April 1 r. -A f> rt t> V
The Post Office announced today that starting from A-7r.il 1 aero/^anme forms which do not conform to the approved standard will no longer bo granted the concessionary postage rate of 7O cents to all couiitrl v..
Unauthorised aerogramme forms will be subject to full airnail charros, a Post Office spokesman said, and those that do not boar full postage will cither be treated as underpaid, and accordingly surcharged, or diverted to surface mail.
The only aerogrammes eligible for the 5>0-cent postage rate will be those sold by the Post Office or those manufactured under a current licence issued by the Postmaster General, the siae end format of which are in accord with a pattern formula adopted for international uua by the Universal Postal Union.
The spokesman explained that all current licence holders bear a serial number in the 100 range, and members of the public can identify the approved forms by reading the number shown in the "sender’s address" portion of each form.
Local manufacturers were informed of the new requirements in September 1971, and it was considered that sufficient time had elapsed for stoclzs of the old forms to be used up, he added.
To avoid inconvenience and embarrassment, the spokesman urged members of the public to use only approved aerogramme forms.
-------0---------
Tuceday, March 5t 1974
- 8 -
OVER 39,000 CHILDREN IMMUNISED
In First Phase Of Anti-Polio Campaign
The first phase of the anti-poliomyelitis campaign 1974 ended on February 16 with 39,009 children immunised.
finnouncing this today, a spokesman for the Medical and Health Department described the total as "satisfactory.”
In the last week of the campaign, 7,423 doses of the anti-poliomyelitis vaccine were administered — 3,263 first-dose, 2,404 second-dose, and 1,756 booster-dose•
Of these, 2,293 doses were administered among children on the Island, 3,233 in Kowloon, and 1,897 in the New Territories.
The first phase of the annual campaign began on January 2 and lasted six weeks.
The second phase, intended as a follow-up, will be carried out later in the year.
Anti-poliomyelitis vaccine is available free throughout the year at all the Department’s maternal and child health centres, and the annual campaigns are "intended to remind mothers of the availability of this service, and to take advantage of it.11
Campaigns also enable maternal and child health centres to deal with cases that do not come up during normal sessions.
-------0---------
/9........
Tuesday, March 5, 19?4
- 9 -
DC & I DIRECTOR TO VISIT FACTORIES
******
The Director of Commerce and Industry, Mr. David Jordan, will be making a ’’shop-floor” tour of two factories at Aberdeen tomorrow morning (Wednesday) to see manufacturing operations in progress.
He is due to arrive at 9.45 a.m. at the National Cash Register Manufacturing Company Ltd.,55 Wong Chuk Hang Road (first and second floor), and will be received by the managing director, Mr. T.E. Jones.
The company manufactures electronic computer parts and memory cores. It employs about 4?0 workers but the number is expected to increase to more than 900 by the end of this year. The major export marlcots for the firm’s products are the United States, Britain, Switzerland and Germany.
The second factory Mr. Jordan will be visiting is Casey Diamonds Ltd., 20 V/ong Chuk Hang Road (first floor). He is due to arrive at 11.15 a.m. and will be received by the managing director, Mr. Casey Liu.
The company employs 70 workers on the cutting and polishing of diamonds, and its major export markets are the United States and South-east Asia.
Note to Editors: You are invited to have the visits covered.
Please note that the management of Casey Diamonds Ltd. will not allow pictures to be taken in the production areas of the factory. There is no objection, however, to photographs being taken in the reception
areas.
-----0------
/10........
Tuesday, March 5j 197^
10 -
FAREWELL LECTURE BY VISITING PROFESSOR
Mrs. Helen Perlman, Professor of Social Work at the University of Chicago, who is on a working visit to Hong Kong, will give a farewell lecture at the Chinese Y»M.C.A.:et 23 Waterloo Road, Kowloon, tomorrow (Wednesday) •
It will begin at 6 p.m.
The title of her lecture will be "Reflections on Social Casework Hong Kong and U.S.A," Anyone interested is invited to attend.
Professor Perlman arrived in Hong Kong on December 28 last year and has been giving lectures and holding seminars on various aspects of social work for both students and workers in the profession.
She is the author of many books on social work. The most popular of which is "Social Casework — A Problem Solving Process" that has been translated into eight languages.
Note to Editors:
You are welcomed to cover Mrs. Perlman’s
lecture tomorrow
Tuesday, March 5, 19?^ CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Dally Guido To Wholesale Market Pricen And Supplies
Tho following prices v/ero realised today (Tuesday) Ga^ea under tho Rice Control Scheme and at tho Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and tho FirJh Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Wen, Kowloon:
/ Supplion and Wholesale Prices of Rico
• Availability • Wholesale Price
Grado China Rico of Supply ._J?Ze?Atx2
Ayora^o
1.96
** old crop Seo Mew . Good 2.0 ’ "
- now crop
S.C.Jion - old crop now .crop Good 1.90 1.9^
Po llgai •n
- •• •
Chu Cho
Thai Rico VcX^rtGi’ofo Good 1.91
'10-15,0 Brokens Good 1.89
A1 Super Extra •• ••
• 1.52
A1 Super Good 1.42
Whole Glutinous ••
• U.S. Rico Good 1.82
. ’ Australian Rioe Good 1.80 •
Pakistan Rico ••
•
Taiv/an Rico
/Supplies and oeo6o«»
/ * •
t 1 Supplies • •• Species Tuesday, March 5i 1974 and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
/ivailabillty of Supply Wholesale Price (g/catty)
/ • High Low • Average
Golden Thread Good 3.3 2.3 . 2.7
Big-Eyes Good 2.8 0.8 2.0
t Squid Limited 6.0 3.0 4.0
Hair-Tails Normal '2.8 1.2 2.0
Lizard Fishes Good 2.5 1.2 1.8
Croakers Normal 2.3 1.0 1.6
Conger-Pike-Eols i Good 1.8? 1.5 1.7 ‘
• Melon Coat ••
Breams Scarce 4.5 3.0 5.8
Yellow Belly Good 1.4 0.6 1.1
Mackerels Good 5.0 3.0 5.8
Rod Goat Fash Limited 1.7 0.8 1.2
Fork-Tail. Good 1.3 1.0 1.1
Horse-IIoad Normal 4.8 3.0 5.8
Melon Seed Limited 2.2. 1.8 2.0
Ponrfrots Scarce 7.6 6.5 7.0
Garoupas Normal 7.5 5.0 6.0
Yellow Croaker — - •• eo
/Supplies and •«•••«.
Tuesday, March 5t. 197*1
SiYppliog and Wholesale Priccqjof locally Produced Vegetables
• SffiO ^lov/orjue cabbage Availability Normal Wholesale Prico (fl/catty) High low Avorngo 1.8 0.6 1.2
White cabbage Normal 1.2 0.4 0.8
Clnnoso Xottuoo Nonaal. 0.8 Oe2 0.6
Chinese Kale Normal 1.4 ' 0.5 1.0
SjA’ing onion Normal 0.8 0.2 0.5
Cpinaoh . Normal 1.2 0.4 0.8
• Water cross • Normal 1.0 0.5 oo6
Ztonf nvntard cabbage Limited 0.9 0.3 0.6
Tomato < Limited 1.8 0.6 1.4
Supplies end Wholesale Prices of Pork (Tdvo weight) •
• • Pork Availability of sbppIx Normal Wholesale Prico (Average) • 300
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Wednesday, March 6, 1974
CONTENTS
Page No.
Various schemes being considered to bridge the education gap.......................................................... 1
Standard 32 flagfall for Hong Kong and Kowloon taxis introduced ••••••••.......................................... 4
Governor stresses importance of community involvement in public affairs ••••••.................................... 6
Colonial Secretary to officiate at firemen’s passing out parade ................................................... 9 7
New estate at Clear Water Bay Road will house 29,000 ........ 8
Opening of new ambulance depot at Yau Ma Tei ................ 9
Shamshuipo CDO moving to new offices at Lai Chi Kok Road ... 10
Possible improvements to operation of rice control scheme discussed •••••••••.......................................... 11
......
Paily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: 7«3Q p.m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Wednesday, March 6, 1974
- 1 -
BRIDGING THE EDUCATION GAP
More Intensive Use Of School Buildings Needed Says Mr. Bray
*********
A number of schemes are being considered to bridge the ’’education gap” for children in the 12-14 age group, the Secretary for Home Affairs and Information, Mr. Denis Bray, disclosed today.
The education gap, he told members of the Hong Kong Soroptimist Club, ”is the biggest wo know of” in services for youth and it would not be easy to fill it quickly.
”No real impact can be made in less than about five years,” he said. ”If we sweat at imaginative and ingenious schemes we might do something mildly useful in about five years.”
He added, however, that if we went remorselessly for temporary ways of using school buildings more intensively, ”we could kill this problem in five years by having the kids in school — whore they belong anyway.”
No alternative programme would yield results more quickly than more intensive use of school buildings during the period when school building caught up with increased teacher training.
Mr. Bray pointed out that if school places could not be found for children aged 12 to 14, ’’there is precious little that can really bo done for thorn.”
”If we insist on using secondary school buildings as they are used now then tens of thousands of children will be turned out to face life as best they can at the age of 12.”
/At present, •••••
Wednesday, March 6, 1974
2 -
At present, Mr. Bray said, 80 per cent of primary school leavers go on with their education. This high figure surprised him, "but the sobering thought is that 20 per cent of these kids in the top forms of primary schools now have only one more term’s schooling in their lives.”
He said the hard facts are three years old. At the 1971 Census, the education gap comprised 46,000 children aged 12-14 not at school — 15 per cent of this age group. A total of 31,000 of them were at work of some sort and 16,000 were not.
Describing some of the schemes being considered in the meantime, Mr. Bray said the first problem was to find out where these children were.
This would involve some form of Registration, and one idea was being oxamined to organise a three-day excursion to a holiday camp during school time so that as many 12 to 14 year children as possible could attend and be registered by City District Office staff.
This could then be accompanied by setting up a network of trained Community Recreation Officers throughout Hong Kong’s 17 administrative districts
Mr. Dray said this had already been endorsed by the Council for Recreation and Sport and, if accepted, could start to make itself felt in the autumn.
The aim, he oxpalined, was to organise recreation and sport for people who are not in school. The 12-14 age group would be the main target but not the only one.
"Recreation grounds are not well used at the moment except by school-based recreation, ” ho said, ’’and this scheme is aiming at full use of the recreation grounds we have.”
Recreation alone, however, would not do the job and two other lines of approach are being looked at.
/The first
Wednesday, March 6, 197^
3
The first is a suggestion for a counselling and guidance service on a reacliing out basis. "The plan is to use youth or community centres as operational bases to reach out to potential problem youths who have either dropped out or are about to drop out of school," he explained.
Experienced youth agencies would be approached but the first step would be to set up a steering group to consider the basic problems of such a service. Initial projects would have to be run for a year to see whether they were worthwhile.
At this stage, Mr. Bray said, nobody knows how many such projects would be necessary.
The other proposal concerned an expansion of craft classes which aim simply to get the children into a place where they could potter .about under guidance with the sort of tools and materials that may be useful to them in earning a living.
A. pilot scheme could be started on a trial basis, he said, to devolop leisure-tine activities classes — similar to the 10 now operated by the Boys and Girls Clubs Association — for children in the education gap.
For 1,000 children in 10 classes the annual cost would approach $500,000, he said.
And if it worked, assuming it took two years to set up and evaluate this scheme, it would have to be expanded fifteen times to reach chfl dren not at school or at work, and forty-five times to get all children in the education gap, he added. The cost would then be $22,5 million a year without building.
Mr. Bray said he knew that the Kwun Tong Vocational Training Centro ... y
would 1 ikn to help, and with their present buildings could take in 120 children at a cost of nearly $200,000 a year 'for instruction,. The number of children
* J.
could bo doubled to 240 in, say two or throe years after some building extensions, he noted. . ., .
Some 200 such centres would be required at a cost of $80 million a year if Bini dings could be found to cover all children not at school, he said.
Noto to Editors: Copies of the full text of Mr. Bray’s speech
are boxed for collection.
-------0--------- A.......................
Wednesday, March 6, 1974
- -4 -
STANDARD 82 FLAGFALL FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON TAXIS INTRODUCED
*******
A new standard fare of $2 for the first mile for taxis operating on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon has been approved by the Governor in Council.
Bie subsequent charges will be calculated at 20 cents for eath one fifth of a mile, which is the current rate for Hong Kong.
In announcing the fare revision today, a government spokesman said that the decision had been taken after a detailed examination of the economics of the taxi trade following requests for higher fares from taxi operators on both sides of the harbour.
The spokesman pointed out that taxi fares had not increased for more than 25 years, and during this period there has been a very substantial increase in operating costs.
It is estimated that the cost of a new vehicle has doubled, drivers1 wages trebled, the price of fuel increased fourfold and rents for garages up tenfold. In fact the cost of fuel to taxi operators has increased from 82.90 a gallon before October 26, 1973 to 84.15 a gallon now.
Commenting on the.decision, the spokesman said that the fare rise had only been approved after very careful consideration of its implications on the cost of transport.
It was felt, however, that to refuse the application it might have a serious effect on the viability of the taxi trade which plays an important part in our public transport system.
/The spokesman •••••••
Wednesday, March 6, 1974
- 5 -
The spokesman said that with the introduction of the uniform fare, the present zoning system will be abolished. This will enable taxis to operate on either side of the harbour as is the case with all other vehicles, including public light buses and public cars.
The dezoning will increase taxi availability to meet heavy demands caused by regular events and special occasions, such as race days and festivals. These demands cannot be met under the present arrangements.
The new fares will come into effect at 0001 on Sunday (March 10) morning. This delay will take into account the time needed by the Transport Department to issue a temporary conversion table which must be displayed in all taxis until their meters can be recalibrated, tested and sealed at the new rate.
Any taxi whose meter has not been converted, and in which the table is not displayed will have to charge the amount shown on the existing meter.
The actual conversion of the meters is expected to take some weeks as almost 4,800 vehicles are involved.
With the abolition of the zoning system, the existing 815 crossharbour surcharge (by tunnel or vehicular ferry) is to bo reduced to 810. This will allow 85 for the return journey across the harbour to compensate for any loss if the taxi were unable to collect a fare back to its original side of the harbour.
-----7 0---------
/6........
Wednesday, March 6, 197^
- 6 -
IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT UNDERLINED
<*«*«****:
The Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose, this (Wednesday) evening said the problems of law and order and cleanliness are being tackled al png the right lines and in a manner the community understands#
Addressing Hong Kong Island community leaders at the annual spring reception, held in the City Hall,he noted that some progress had been made in those fields and the basis for more progress had been laid#
Sir Murray said he attached great importance to community involvement in the day to day life of Hong Kong and he thanked the community leaders for their effort in improving local conditions# ’•With unity of will great things can be achieved in our attempt to make Hong Kong a more satisfactory place to live in,” he said#
Fnl,lowing is the full text of the Governor’s speech:
”It is a great pleasure for ne and my wife to attend this annual Spring reception and to meet so many of you this evening#
”1 attach great importance to community involvement in the day to day life of this city, and this has been a very active year for all community workers, with the focus on law and order and cleanliness# I believe that those problems are being tackled correctly and in a way that the community understands. Some progress has been made, and the basis for more progress has been laid.
/”I am
Wednesday, March 6, 197^
- 7 -
"I am grateful, and gratified at the part that you leaders or the oonrrunity have played,and I take this opportunity to thank you for the time and effort you have so generously given to organise and unite your neighbourhoods and communities to make life better and safer and more satisfactory for everyone.
n’A city is built on the will of the Sommunity* • With unity of will great things can be achieved in our attempt to make Hong Kong a more satisfactory place to live in.
,fI ask you to drink with me a toast to a happy and successful
New Year."
-------0---------
FIREMEN ON PARADE
»«*»****
Note to Editors: The Colonial Secretary, Mr. Denys Roberta
will take the salute at a passing out parade of firemen to be held at the Fire Services Training School at Pat Heung in the New Territories, on Friday (March 8).
Reporters and photographers are invited to attend the parade which starts at 3 p»ne A bus will be provided to take press representatives to Pat Heung, leaving from Canton Road Fire Station at 1.J0 sharp and returning there after the parade has ended.
Mr. Donald Strange of Fire Services Department will accompany the press party to and from Pat Heung.
-------0---------
Wednesday, March 6, 197^
- 8 -
NEW ESTATE TO HOUSE 29,000 PEOPLE
*******
A public housing estate is to be built to the south of Clear Water Bay Road to provide homes for about 29,000 people. At the same time, Clear Water Bay Road will be re-aligned and widened to cope with the heavy traffic.
The estate will be built in three stages, the first of which will involve site formation and the construction of public housing accommodation for about 10,000 people.
Site formation work is expected to start in a few months’ time.
Housing Department staff today began clearing the strip of land which runs for a quarter of a mile adjacent to the southern side of Clear Water Bay Road in the Ngau Chi Wan area.
A total of about 470 structures are involved in the clearance operation, which will be completed in another two or three days time.
More than of these are tolerated structures and about 700 people living in them have been offered public housing at Sau Mau Ping or Lam Tin Estate•
Ex-gratia allowances amounting to 81.2 million were given to 50
eligible shop or factory operators
Wednesday, March 6, 197^
- 9 -
NEW AMBULANCE DEPOT OPENED
The Ambulance Command has come a long way since its establishment as a small division in i960, Mr. Li Fook-kow, Secretary for Social Services, said today when he officially opened a new ambulance depot at Yau Ma Tei.
Mr. Li said the division had been re-organised, strengthened and fpradually expanded into a strong Command with its own administrative organisation and a fleet of 67 ambulances to meet the emergency requirements of the population.
lie vzent on: "But the demands for this service by the growing population have increased rapidly and, in a recent review of the Ambulance Service, the government also approved an additional 19 ambulances for the Command. This considerable increase is not surprising if one takes account of the fact that the Ambulance Service is answering an average of about JOO calls a day."
kt the same time, Mr. Li said, it is the government’s intention to ensure a well-equipped ambulance service with well trained officers who are able to cope with all manner of unforeseen circumstances.
"With the increasing public awareness of the ambulance service, the expanding industrialisation, higher population and traffic densities, the demand for a bigger and better service will continue to grow. But I am confident that, with the dedicated spirit of the Ambulance Command and the combined efforts of all concerned, we will continue to have an Ambulance Service wo can be proud of."
/Present at .......
t.
I
V/odaosday, Ihrch 6, 1974
- 10 -
Present at the opening ceremony wore the Director of Fire Services, Mr. A.ILH. uood, the Chief Ambulance Officer, Mr. G.W. Doore, and other guests.
The depot, situated at the junction of Waterloo and Nathan Loads, is a nine-storey building with a total staff of 40 operating two shifts and a complement of nine ambulances.
There are 46 quarters for officers and Rank and File. The building occupies an area of 5,000 square feet and cost about $2.8 million.
Note to Editors: Copies of a photograph showing Mr. Li
unveiling a plaque at the opening ceremony are boxed for collection.
-------0---------
NEV/ ADDRESS FOR SHAM SHUT PO CDO
««*****«
The Sliam Shui Po City District Office will be moving over the weekend from the present premises in Tai Po Road to Cheng Ka Building, 299-305 Lai Chi Kok Road.
It will occupy the ground, first and second floors and start
operating at tho new address from Monday (March 11). The new telephone number is 5-704251•
- 0 - -
Wednesday, March 6, 19?4
- 11 -
DIRECT SALES OF RICE TO MAJOR RETAIL OUTLETS * *****
Officials of the Commerce and Industry Department had a series of meetings today with representatives of the rice trade to discuss possible measures to improve the operation of the rice control scheme*
A spokesman for the department said that full support was given to arrangements for major retail outlets to obtain rice from importers at prevailsng market rates*
nlhe prices they will charge will provide an accurate indication of fair retail prices which should prevail across the whole of the retail sector of the trade/1 he added.
The major retail stores involved in the arrangements include Shui Hing, Park ’N Shop, Dairy Farm, Asia, Wing On and Daimaru.
Shui Hing has already put top-grade China See Movz rice on sale at $2*10 per catty after obtaining supplies direct from importers at last week’s prevailing market rates.
These prices will be raised to a maximum of 32*^0 per catty when further supplies are obtained at the new rates which came into effect on Monday, March 4*
There is legal provision in the legislation governing the operation of the rice control scheme for the Director of Commerce and Industry to instruct importers to sell rice directly to any designated company*
At the present time about 25 retailers are permitted to purchase rice directly from importers. There is also provision for at least 12 major employers5 including factories, commercial. companies and hospitals to make direct purchases.
-------0---------
Wodn-'&dHy, March 6, 1.974
• CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guido To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplier!
jjrfii’J <• vO
T?o iollcw.ii" _>• ■' - •> vara revised today (.'.odnewuy) at Galon undox* the Rice Control Schono and nt the Vegetable Marketing Organioatiax Wholesale Market and the Fich Marketing Orgenination Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Van, Kowloon:
and V/holcs9*l»-? Prices of Pice
Availability Vholcsalo Price
Grado pf _Sup??‘X- (^/cettKl
■»« China Rd co Av?racq
r< - old crop »>eo Hou ~ ncw crop Good <96 2.00
• Good %9’4
S.C.Jion ~ old crop
Good 1.65
Po Ilgai • -
Chu Cho •
53iai Riqc I'OCfHfiiolo Good 1.91
Brokens Good 1.89
A1 .Super Extra -
A1 Super Good . 1.42/1.52
VZholo Glutinous — ••
• U.S. Pico Good. 1.82
Australian Hioe •w •• • ' * --
Pakistan Bicq «■ %
Taiwan Bice, Good 1.60
. /
/Supplies and «oe«o9
1 . . * .
Wednesday, March 6, 197^
. Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Species / Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (8/catty)
Hifsh Low • Average
Golden Thread Good 3.4 2.4 . 3.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.6 0.7 1.6
t Squid Normal 6.3 2.5 4.5
Hair-Tails Good ’2.45 1.2 1.8
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.5 1.0 1.8
Croakers Good 2.6 0.8 1.6
Conger-Pike-Eels Good 1.8 1.3 1.5
• Melon Coat Limited 2.0 1.2 1.5
Breams Normal 5.0 3.0 4.5
Yellow Belly Good 1.9 0.8 1.4
Mackerels t Normal 4.2 3.0 3.8
Ped Goat Fish . r. Good 1.6 0.6 1.0
Fork-Tail Normal t 1.4 1.0 1.2
Horse-Head Good 5.2 3.0 4.0
Melon Seed Normal 3.4. . 1.8 2.8
Poofrets Limited 7.5 6.5 7.0
Gcroupas Normal 6.5 5.0 6.0
Yellow Croaker •• ••
I • • • ••
J ■ ■ • /Supplies and « *
• f •
Wednesday, March 6, 1974
Suppljer, end Wholesale Prices < of
• 'koeffly Prodvced Vegetables
— • Availability Wholesale Price
pt Supply (8/catty)_
t Hi# i Low Average
Floworjng cabbage Normal 1.$ 0.5 1.2
White cabbage Normal 1.3 0.3 0.8
Chinese Lottuoo Normal 0.8 0.2 0.5
Chinese Kale • Normal 1.2 0.4 0.8
• Spring onion Good 0.7 0.2 0.5
4 *Spinach t Normal 1.2 0.4 0.8
Water oross ; Normal 1.0 0.2 0.6
Leaf mustard cabbage Limited 0.8 0.3 0.6
Tomato Limited 1.8 0.6 1.4
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight) •
* Availability Wholesale Price
< • of Supply ( #/ picul)
•« » 3 (Average)
< 1 i Poi’k Good . JOO
• •
? ‘4 • • •
• 5 4 • • <r • .. 0 - •
i
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Thursday, March 7, 197^
CONTENTS
Page No*
Scheme to widen direct sale of rice under consideration to stabilise consumer prices....................... • • • ....... 1
Forecast of land sales for April-September ................... 2
Taxi conversion tables available for use on Sunday ••••••• 4
Governor inspects progress of High Island Water Scheme • • • 5
New rent control legislation does, not allow for automatic increases ............••••••................................ 7
Director of Oil Supplies to meet Press representatives • •• 8
Care and Attention Home for the Aged opened in Aberdeen •• 9
Traffic arrangements for Sunday’s ”Walk for a Million” ••• 10
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: 7 •30 P»n>
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
Thursday, March 7, 197^-
- 1 -
SCHEME TO WIDEN DIRECT SALES OF RICE
******
A scheme to widen direct sales of rice is being worked out by the Commerce and Industry Department in a further move to stabilise consumer rice prices•
As a first step, arrangements have already been made for major department stores to obtain supplies from importers at prevailing market rates for sale to the public.
The department is now working out a system for enabling wider direct sales to organisations employing a substantial number of workers* "We are determined to do everything possible to censure that the public get rice at a fair price," a department spokesman said today.
He confirmed that an Advisory Committee on Rice is being established by the Commerce and Industry Department to coordinate the operation of the rice control scheme.
All sections of the rice trade — importers, wholesalers and retailors — arc being invited to nominate representatives to serve on the committee.
The working arrangements for wider direct sales of rice will be discussed when the committee meets for the first time next week.
It is intended that direct sales should be expanded to organisations employing at least 200 workers. An agreed minimum direct purchase from importers will be worked out.
In the meantime, the release of rice on a direct sale basis to • < •
major department stores is proceeding.
-------0---------
Thursday, March 7, 1974
- 2 -
LAUD SALES FORECAST FOR NEXT SIX MONTHS
*#«*****♦
Forty-two lots of crown land with an overall area of some 671,000 square feet will be offered for sale between April and September this year.
Of these, 22 are for industrial development, 14 for residential use and six for commercial/residential purposes.
This was disclosed today by the Director of Lands and Survey in the Land Salos Forecast for the six-month period between April 1 and September 30.
Those sites which will be sold for industrial/godown development will range from 2,100 square feet to 26,300 square feet in area. Their overall area covers some 302,182 square feet. Fourteen of them will be in Choung Sha Wan, six in Kwun Tong and two in Chai Wan.
At the same time, 14 sites for residential purposes are to be put for sale — seven in Broadcast Drive, four in Cloud View Road and three in San Ha Street,Chai Wan. The areas of the sites, which amount to 324,140 square feet, range from 10,600 square feet to 351000 square feet.
Six other sites for commercial/residential development — five in Kowloon and one on Hong Kong island ■— will also be offered for sole.
a
Thursday, March 7, 197^
- 3
Particulars of the Land Sale Forecast together with plans showing the location of .the lots to be sold may be inspected at the Crown Lands and Survey Offices on both sides of the harbour; the Public Enquiry Sub-office in Ice House Street! all City District Offices; the office of the District Commissioner, New Territories, North Kowloon Magistracy; and at the Commerce and Industry Department in Connaught Road Central.
Copies of the forecast may be obtained free of charge by calling at any of the above offices or by written request to the Crown Lands and Survey Offices©
The sale dates for each lot will be notified in the government gazette and advertised in English and Chinese newspapers in the usual way.
At the time of advertising, detailed conditions of sale and sale plans will bo available to the public and these may be obtained at the Crown Lands and Survey Office, or at the Public Enquiry Sub-Office in Ice House Street©
Note to Editors: Copies of the full list of the Provisional
Land Sales Forecast are boxed for collection.
-------0---------
Thursday, March 7i 1974
- 4 -
TAXI CONVERSION TABLES READY
********
The Transport Department will begin distributing taxi conversion tables tomorrow (Friday) morning in preparation for the introduction of the revised fare structure on Sunday.
Copies of the tables will be available from the three taxi operators associations and from the licensing offices of the Transport Department in Hon^f Kong and Kowloon. /
/ The table, which will be operative as an interim measure until taxi meters arc recalibrated, tested and sealed at the new rate, will carry the department1s special chop. This will identify them as-the - . . ____
official guide for taxi drivers and passengers^-
From Sunday morning, the tables will have to be displayed next to the taxi meter. Any taxi—whose meter has not been converted and in which the table is not displayed will have to charge the amount shown on the existing motor.
In a covering note to the taxi associations and drivers, the
Transport Department said, among other things, that all taxis must have their meters recalibrated and submitted for inspection, testing and scaling.
However, tho department emphasises that operators should not convert motors until they have an appointment for an inspection.
-------0---------
Thursday, March 7, 1974
- 5 -
GOVERNOR VISITS HIGH ISLAND RESERVOIR
******
The Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose, this afternoon spent about one and a half hours at Sai Kung to see for himself how work is progresRing at High Island to build Hong Kongrs largest reservoir.
At a cost of $1,348 million, the High Island Scheme will boost the local fresh water storage capacity to 128,000 million gallons' by 1979, when its major construction works are completed*
Sir Murray was first briefed by the Senior Resident Engineer, Mr. ±ony Vail, on the construction plans and the work that is being carried out*
From a vantage point overlooking the strait of Kwun Mun, Sir Murray inspected the sea-bed between two coffer dams from which sea-water has been pumped out.
A concrete core base will be laid right across the bottom to form the foundation for the }4O feet west dam.
The Governor then proceeded to the casting yard for dolosse, where the giant concrete blocks are being cast in steel moulds*
Some 7,000 of these precast units will be locked together to form a breakwater at the eastern end of the fresh-water lake to withstand heavy seas*
Sir Murray next went to see the coffer dams being formed for the east dam.
These ooffer dams have not been closed yet, but in a few weeks, sea water will start to be’ pumped out to enable construction of the main east dam to be carried out in the dry.
/The outer
Thursday, March 7> 197^+
- 6 -
The outer of the two coffer dams will be used, after the completion of the main dam, to form the permanent breakwater.
The High Island Water Scheme is the largest conventional reservoir built by the government. With the alternative of desalting plants, it is also the last because consulting engineers, Messrs. Binnie and Partners of London, have pointed out that there are no further - watersheds for major reservoirs.
For the present scheme, water is trapped within a wide-covering catchment area and fed into the reservoir 5 but only to the extent it does not deprive farmers of water for irrigation and other uses.
There will be 4.5 miles of catchwaters, and some 25 miles of tunnels to carry the water to the reservoir, to transfer water from High Island to the Sha Tin Treatment Works, and to carry water between Hi^h. 'Island and Plover Cove by way of Lower Shing Mun Reservoir.
When the water has been treated at the Sha Tin Works — the handling capacity of which has been greatly expanded for the scheme — it will be taken to urban areas in Kowloon through a duplicate Lion Rock Tunnel which will also carry road traffic.
Storing of water is expected to begin in 1976. When full, High Island reservoir will have a capacity of 60,000 million gallons, or some 70 percent of the existing 17 reservoirs put together.
Note to Editors: Copies of a photograph taken during the
Governor’s visit are boxed for collection.
-------0---------
/7
Thursday, March 7, 197^
- 7 -
RENT CONTROL LEGISLATION CLARIFIED
*********
The Rent Control legislation does not permit an automatic increase of 21 per cent in rents as some landlord and tenants believe, a Rating and Valuation Department spokesman said today.
Clarifying the rate of increase permitted under the legislation, he said the amount of increase is determined from the current rent paid and the fair market rent assessed by the department.
The difference between these two rents is then divided by 5 and the resultant figure is the amount of the certified •>^crease. However, in most cases where the rateable value of the premises does not exceed 830,000 the increase may not exceed 21 per cent.
With regard to Current Rent, the spokesman explained that this was defined as "the rent payable, exclusive of rates," i.e. if the landlord is responsible for the payment of rates, the amount of such rates lias to be deducted from the rent paid to arrive at the Current Rent.
It is to .this figure that the maximum permitted increase in rent of 21 per cent is applied.
_ So far, the department has issued some 6,000 Certificates of Inareas^io Increase.
The following table illustrates how the certified increase is worked out:
/Similar .......
Thursday, March 7, 1974
8 -
Similar Premises
’A’ 1 •C’
(i) Fair Market Rent $1,000 $1,000 $1,000
(ii) Current Rent $800 $650 $450
Difference (i - ii) $200 $350 $550
Difference divided by 540 $70 $110*
Factor of 5 (a 5% (a 10&% (*In this case
increase) increase) as 3110 exceeds
(i.e. the Increase in 21# of 3450 the
rent allowed) amount of
increase certified would be 399)
-------0----------
MEET THE MEDIA
********
Note to Editors:
Mr* Roy Porter, Director of Oil Supplies-,-will be guest speaker at a Meet The Media session at 11 a.m. tomorrow (Friday). 4
The meeting will be held in the 35 nn theatre of the Government Information Services, 5th floor.
You are invited to have it covered. • ■<
Television crews are requested to set up their equipment before the start of the meeting.
-------0----------
/9........
Thursday, March 7, 197^
« 9 -
DSV' OPENS CARE AND ATTENTION HOME »
Bie Tung IMi Groi -,i of Hospitals’ Care and attention Home in Aberdeen was officially opened today (Thursday) by Mr, Kenneth Topley, the Director of Social Welfarec
The Home is attached to the David Trench Home for the Aged in Nan Long Shan Road, Housed in a converted block, it has places for 76 senile people needing special cn^e and attention.
Speaking at the C 'remony Mx o Topley said the opening of the * • *
Home marked a significm’, step towards the provision of welfare services for the aged.
He said rany welfare agencies had been working consistently in this field and many homes for the aged were set up a long time ago.
He said, hcwe-v • , it had beer noticed that because of their inadequate faci?\tie^ establishi-.jnt the existing homes for the aged were unable to take care of these infirm old people needing special attention# • *
But, he pointed ouv, the Ttuig Wah Group of Hospitals has been gaini ng much experience and making outstanding achievements in running homes for the aged and infirmaries and believed it would do its best to provide services to those for whom the Home has been planned•
Mr« Topley also noted that the setting-up of Care and Attention Homes or Infix maries ha*j been reoonmendsd by the Working Party on the future needs cf the elderly.
Thursday, March 7, 1974
- 10 -
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON SUNDAY Community Chest To Hold ’Walk For A Million’ **»*«>**«
Special traffic arrangements will be introduced in the vicinity of the Government Stadium on Sunday (March 10) when the Community Chest will hold a ’Walk for a Million’.
On that day, Link Road will be one way (downslope) from Broadwood Road to Caroline Hill Road between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.
During the same period, three other roads will be closed. They are Caroline Hill Road, south of the South China Athletic Association Buildingj Eastern Hospital Road (apart from those vehicles requiring access to the Tung Wah Hosptial), south of the junction with Tung Lo Wan Road, and Cotton Path.
Parking will be suspended in Link Road between Broadwood Road and Caroline Hill Road from 7.30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Parking will be permitted in the Stadium Car Parks before 9 a*nu after which time no vehicles will be allowed to leave the general area of the Stadium,and further parking will be suspended until 7 p.m.
Also affected will be the eastbound bus stop on Leighton Road, opposite the Po Leung Kuk, which will be temporarily suspended between 8 a.m. and 12 noon.
Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area of the Government Stadium unless their journey is absolutely necessary.
People taking part in the walk are requested to use public transport when travelling to and from the Stadium.
-------0---------
Thursday, March 7, 1974
CONSUMER ADVISORY EERVICE
Daily Guido To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
Tho following prices were realised today (Thursday) at 63108 under the Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
fimrnilaa and Wholesale Prices oCRicg.
• Availability Wholesale Price
Grado of Supply __ (fl/cattyj .
China Rico Averago
„ „ - old crop Seo Mow _ new crop Good 2.00 •
S.C.Jion - old crop Good 1.94
Po Ilgai Good 1.6?
Chu Cho Good -
Thad Rjco YotfH/hole Good 1.91
1O-15/S Brokens Good 1.89 . «
A1 Super Extra Good * 1.67
A1 Super Good . '>•52
Whole Glutinous Good ••
• U.S. Rico Good 1.82
’ Australian Riqe Good • ?
Pakistan Rice Good A • "
Taiv/an Rico Good • ; 1.60 •
/Supplies and •'«•••••
Thursday। March 7» 1974
I . Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
i . ‘ Species • • Availability ofjSuPElZ Wholesale Price (8/catty) _
• nigh Low • Average
Golden Thread Good • 3.5 2.5 3.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.7 0.7 1.7
Squid i Limited 5.8 2.8 4.8
Hair-Tails Good >2.7 1.0 1.8
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.8 1.1 1.8
Croakers Normal 2.4 1.2 1.7
Conger-Pike-EGls Normal 1.8 1.4 1.6
• Melon Coat Normal 2.2 1.6 2.0
Breams Normal 4.5 2.8 '3.4
Yellow Belly * • Good 1.9 0.7 1.4
Mackerols Good 4.5 3.0 3.5
Bed Goat Fish Good 1.6 0.5 1.3
Fork-Tail Normal 1.3 1.0 1.1
Horse-Head Good 5.0 3.0 4.5
Melon Seed Scarce 2.5 • 1.5 1.8
Pocrfrets Scarce 8.0 7.0 7.5
Gcroupas formal 7.0 5.0 6.0
Yellow Croaker • •a «■
/Supplies and v
Thursday, March 7, 1974
Supp)io» and Wholcnala Prices of
J/OC'lTl . Produced Vegetables
*c' -
Tyi’51 Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (8/catty)
High low — Average
f Honoring cabbage Normal 1.2 O.‘l 0.8
White cabbage Good O.S 0.2 0.5
Chinese Lettuce Normal. 0.7 0.15 0.4
Chinese Kale Good 1.0 0.2 0.6
Spring onion Good 0.6 0.2 0.4
Spinach . Normal 1.0 0.5 0.7
Water cross Normal •1.0 0.2 0.6
loaf mustard cabbage •Limited 0.8 0.2 0.5
< Tomato Limited 1.6 0.4 0.2
Sunnlios and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight) •
• Availability of Supply Wholesale Price ( S/picul)_
• • (Average)
• Good JOO
Pork
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Friday, March 8, 197^
CONTENTS
Pago No*
Provisional trade figures for January show increases in
Hong Kong’s external trade •••••••••............. •••••••••• 1
Tenancy Inquiry Bureaux to come under Rating and Valuation
Department ••••••••••.••••»......................... ••••••• 3
Commissioner for Narcotics to meet Pressmen on Monday •••••• 4
Pharmacists may be trained locally to meet growing demands.• 5
New traffic arrangements in Shek Lei area to improve traffic flow........••.••«••«••••••••••••......•••••••.........• •••• 7
Reflections on the fireman profession .•••••••......••••••••• 8
Reclamation in Aberdeen Harbour for road widening project... 9
Government accounts for November show 3*168 million surplus.. *10
Prohibition of buying fuel oil in containers removed •••••«• 11
Drug addicts in treatment centres raise 310,000 for charity. 12
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: 8,15 P«m,
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
Friday, March 8, 197^
- 1 -
JANUARY TRADE FIGURES UP
hmm*
Tho value of Hong Kong’s domestic exports for January this year was 31,896 million — an increase of 8682 million or 56.2 per cent over January 1973> according to provisional trade figures released today by tho Census and Statistics Department.
, Imports were up in value by 30.9 per cent as compared
with tho nano month last year, while re-exports increased by 61 por cont.
For tho 12*month period February 1973 to January 197^, domestic exports wont up by 31*6 per cont over tho previous 12-month period, while re-exports rose by 59*6 per cent and imports by if 33*9 por cent.
A table with comparative figures is given below for easy reference:
JiERCHAIJDISE; Domestic Exports: #1,896 million
Imports t 82,453 million
ft Re-exports 8 576 million
/COMPARATIVE FIGURE ......
Friday, I Larch o, 197z>
COMPARATIVE M-IURES
January January Increase or
IQ 74. • 1973 decre ase
3 &>. $ bin. $ Mn. $
1 ,?14 + b<32 + $6.2
Domestic Exports 1 ,o9o
Imports 2,433 1,859 + 574 + 30.9
Re-exports 576 358 + 218 + 61.0
Nov, 1973 Nov. 1972
to to Increase or
- Jr*n. 1974 Jan. 1973 deer* 3a se
3 S bin. S bln.
Domestic Exports 5/790 3,770 +2,020 + 53.6
Imports 8,538 5,757 +2,781 + 48.3
K Re-exports 1,852 • 1,164 + 688 + 59-1
% Feb. 1973 Feb.1972
to to Increase or
Jan. 1974 Jan. 1973 decrease
3 bln. S Kn. 3 Mn.
Domestic Exports 20,156 15,312 +4,844 + 31.6
Imports 29,579 22,091 +7,488 + 33.9
Re-exports 6,743 4,225 +2,519 + 59.6
______0 --------
Friday, March 8, 1974
- 3 -
RATING COMMISSIONER TO TAKE OVER TENANCY INQUIRY BUREAUX
Responsibility for the running of the Tenancy Inquiry Bureaux is to be transferred from the Director of Home Affairs to the Commissioner of Rating and Valuation under the Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) (Amendment) Bill published in today’s gazette.
The Tenancy Inquiry Bureaux perform certain duties and provide a service to the public on tenancies in pre-war buildings.
However, since the Bureaux were set up, the major part of the government’s responsibility in domestic tenancy matters has shifted to postwar premises and has been carried out by the Commissioner of Rating and Valuation.
The latter duties cover not only statutory functions, such as authorising increases in rents of domestic post-war premises, but also giving assistance and advice to the public on rent control and other tenancy problems in such premises. In addition, the Commissioner has always had certain duties to perform relating to pre-war tenancies.
On the grounds of both efficiency and service to the public, it is considered that all these tenancy matters, both pre-war and post-war, should be the responsibility of one department.
As the Rating and Valuation Department now has the largest share of this work, it is proposed that it should take over all such duties with effect from April 1 this year.
*
If the bill is enacted, all communications after that date about tenancy matters for both pre-war and post-war premises should be addressed to the Commissioner of Rating and Valuation, 1 Garden Road, Hong Kong.
/The branches........
Friday, March 8, 1974
The branches of the Bureaux in Hong Kong and Kowloon will continue to operate from their present addresses (10th floor of International Building, Des Voeux Road, Central; and the 6th floor of the Government Offices in Canton Road).
The Commissioner of Rating and Valuation intends to continue to maintain offices for the Tenancy Inquiry Bureaux in both Hong Kong and Kowloon, so that residents on both sides of the harbour can still have easy access to the Bureaux whenever they are in doubt on landlord and tenant natters.
Consideration is, however, being given to relocating the Kowloon Office to a more central position to provide an improved service to the public.
-------0---------
PRESS CONFAB CN NARCOTICS
KOO*
liote to Editors: Mr. Norman Rolfe, Commissioner for Narcotics
will hold a press conference on Monday (Karch 11) at 11 a.m. in the 35 mm theatre of the Government Information Services, 5th floor.
Mr. Rolfe will give a statement and answer questions on the recent United Nations Conference on ♦
Narcotics in Geneva at which he was a delegate.
You are invited to have the conference covered. A ---------------0 --------
Friday, March 8, 197^
- 5 -
PHARMACISTS MAY BE LOCALLY TRAINED AGAIN
Dr, Gerald Choa, Director of Medical and Health Services, said tonight consideration would have to be given to the possibility of training pharmacists locally, instead of abroad as at present, in order to meet a growing need for pharmacists in Hong Kong in line with medical development plans over the next decade.
He referred to a report prepared recently by the Pharmaceutical Society of Hong Kong at the request of the Medical and Health Department, in which the Society had recommended that there should be one pharmacist for every 250 hospital beds, and one retail pharmacy with at least one qualified pharmacist for every 10,000 of the population.
In addition, the Society had expected that a total of 300 pharmacists would be required by 1977, more than 500 by 1982, and nearly 1,100 by 1987 — roughly an average of between 70 and 80 a year to be trained so as to make up the 930 qualified pharmacists estimated to bo needed by then*
Speaking at the Silver Jubilee dinner of the Society, Dr, Choa said if the proposal to train pharmacists locally were accepted, the government would then have to decide whether such training should bo at A
the university or the polytechnic level.
Ho congratulated the Society for growing from a founder A
membership of 21 to 133 in the last 25 years, and he noted that 210 pharmacists were at present on the official register.
/He suggested .......
Friday, March 8, 1974
- 6 -
Ho suggested that while this total might indicate a shortage of pharmacists, it was not true that the government had failed "to grasp the ncttlo of training pharmacists locally."
Ho fewer than three attempts had been made since 1934 to do precisely this. The programme conducted by the Technical Institute of the Education Department was interrupted by the Pacific War, and when it was resumed in 1946, poor enrolment probably led to its discontinuance.
A diploma two-year course in pharmacy was run by the Hong Kong University from September 1952 to June 1956. Three classes wore held, and 20 students graduated from an entry of 25* Ur. Choa told the gathering he was not sure why it was not continued subsequently, but "looking at the small number of students, I suspect that once again tho lack of response might be the reason."
Ten years ago, four government scholarships were made available. Three students returned from Britain and Australia, and were registered, but only ono was still practising locally. Since then, instead of open scholarships, the government had sent eight of its own dispensers abroad to qualify as pharmacists.
Dr. Choa said while the report of the Medical Development Advisory Committee had not dealt with the question of pharmacists because tho professions allied to medicine had not been included in its terms of reference, the Medical and Health Department was aware of the need to provide more pharmacists, and the problem was fully A recognised. *
/"Consequently, •••••
Friday, March 8, 1974
"Consequently, it is obvious that we have to consider once again the provision of facilities for training them locally,” he commented
In a reference to criticism that existing laws were not adequate for the full control of drugs — regarding availability, quality and content, and import and export — he said improved pharmacy and poisons regulations were now in draft, and when they became law, after exhaustive study so as to take account of their complexity, he hoped the medical and pharmaceutical professions would find the new measures ’’sufficiently comprehensive to meet their requirements.”
-------0---------
• f
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN KWAI CHUNG
******
Special traffic arrangements will be introduced next week in the Shek Lei Estate area, Kwai Chung, to improve traffic flow there.
Starting from 10 a.m. on Monday, the section of Wai Kek Street between Shek Lei Street and Tai Loong Street will be re-routed one-way northwards.
At the same time, the section of Shek Lei Street between Tai Pak Tin Street and the estate road junction near Block 11 will be re-routed from one-way southwards to two-way.
The estate road betweerf Blocks 9t 10 and 11 will be closed to through traffic.
Appropriate traffic signs will be posted in the area to guide motorists.
-------o--------- /8.........
Friday, March 8, 197*1-
- 8 -
FIREMAN’S LIFE NOT EASY
*♦ i*i »«■>>>
A fireman’s life is not on easy one, the Colonial Secretary, Mr. Denys Roberts, told recruits passing out from th > Fire Services Training School today.
For a modest salary, he said, a fireman was expected to deal coolly and competently with a wide variety of dangerous situations.
’frequently, during the course of his career, ho will risk serious injury and even death,” Mr. Roberto told the 80 newly qualified Firemen.
”By contrast, between periodo of intense activity, which make great demands on his mental and physical resources, are long periods when there is little to do and a danger that boredom will sap his keenness and efficiency. Yet, when the test comes, the community expects him to behave with good sense, personal bravery and devotion to duty.”
Firemen were called upon to help in many ways — rescue victims of Hood and landslides as well as those affected by fire, going to the aid of tho injured from collapsed buildings or smashed cars, as well as delivering babies.
throughout your life as a Fireman, therefore, you will bo giving help to your fellow men. This cannot be said of most professions,” Mr. Roberts said»
/He told
Friday, March 3, 197^
- 9 -
lie told the recruits that they had chosen a rewarding career and they would be performing a service which is vital to the conoinity*
"And I can assure you thdt your value is fully recognized in the high regard and considerable popularity in which members of your admirable Service arc held by the population of Eong Kong,” ho addedo
-------0 --------
ABERDEEN RECLAMATION
Some 11 acres of land is to be formed in Aberdeen Harbour as part of the Aberdeen reclamation scheme# %
The reclaimed area will extend between Wu Nam Street and the Aberdeen Government Primary School and will provide land for the widening of Aberdeen Main Road.
. This road widening together with other roadwork projects are urgently required to relieve traffic congestion on the roads both approaching and passing through Aberdeen. A large part of the area not devoted to roadworks will bo developed as public open space. . * • * • • •
The extent of the area involved is described in a notification in today’s gazette which calls upon all persons having objections to the proposal or any claim of private right to submit such objections and/or claims in writing to the Director* of Public V/orks within two months.
Friday, March 8, 1974
- 10 -
NOVEMBER ACCOUNTS SHOT 3168 MILLION SURPLUS
********
The Government accounts for the month of November 1973 show a surplus of 3168 million compared with a surplus of 3209 million in November 1972.
This has reduced the accumulated deficit to 373 million for the first eight months of this financial year.
Total revenue for the month at 3580 million was 33$ million less than in November 1972. The total revenue for the first eight months of the financial year was 32,900 million — 3247 million more than in the sane period the previous year.
Expenditure amounted to 3412 million, an increase of 34 million over November 1972.
This brings the total expenditure for the first eight months of the financial year to 32,973 million — an increase of 3616 million over the same period the previous year.
0
Friday, March 8, 197^
BAN ON PURCHASE OF OIL IN CANS LIFTED
The restriction prohibiting the purchase of motor fuel oil in any container except the fuel tank or engine of a vehicle has been removed.
Ihe restriction, made under the Emergency (Control of Oil) Regulations 1973» had been in force for the past three months.
*
It is rescinded as of today (Friday).
In announcing this, the Director of Oil Supplies,Mr. Roy Porter, stressed that Hong Kong was still not in a position to relax generally its oil saving measures. Fuel oil, used to generate electricity, in particular remains in short supply.
But he pointed out that the situation was constantly under review to see whether any relaxation, however minor, could be made.
The latest move is a small one, and Mr. Porter urged people to see it as such and not to regard it as a signal to relax their economies.
He explained that the oil supply situation was still uncertain and unless there is widespread public co-operation, it might be necessary to tighten up further during the summer months when electricity consumption is high.
------ 0---------
Friday, March 8, 197^
- 12 -
DRUG ADDICTS RAISE 310,000 FOR CHARITY
*<*»****«
Hong Kong probably leads the world in the fields of treatment of drug addicts and rehabilitation of young offenders, the Commissioner of Prisons, Mr. Ton Garner,said today.
’’This has happened under a unique programme of the Prisons Department which involves the co-operation between the staff and the inmates and there is no better example than the ceremony for which we arc gathered today,” he explained.
The prison chief was speaking at a ceremony held in the Tai
Lan Addiction Treatment Centre, at which cheques for almost 310,000 were presented to the Community Chest.
The money was raised by 30 inmates of the treatment centre and the Chatham Hoad Training Centre who voluntarily took part in the ”Uall>Fo]>.A-Million” held by the Community Chest in Kowloon on February 17 • A number of staff members of the two institutions also joined the walk.
This is the third successive year in which inmates of the institutions had taken part in the fund-raising walk. •*$
Commenting on the participation of the inmates in the walk,
Mr. Gamer said it marked a very important mile-stone within the work of the Prisons Dcparartment - in the context of who were involved and why was it done.
/”It underlines
Friday, March 8, 1974
- 13 -
"It underlines the fact that individual inmates understand what they can do to help others who are less fortunate than themselves he added.
One of the former inmates confirmed what Mr. Garner had said about what he felt when taking part in the 14-mile-long walk. A. young man aged 24, he had recently left the centre on completion of treatment. He returned with his girl friend today to watch the ceremony.
He said the point was driven home to him when he saw two blind men also taking part in the walk. He then understood what he himspl f or anybody like him could usefully do to serve the community.
Ha certainly felt proud when his former fellow-inmates handed over the cheques to the Division Chairman of the Community Chest’s Campaign Committee, Mrs. David Lee.
"It was the most meaningful thing that I did during six months in the treatment centre," he said.
Note to Editors: Copies of a photograph of the presentation
will be boxed for collection this evening.
-------0---------
Friday, March 8, 1974
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guido To Wholesale Market PtIccb And Supplies
The following prices were realised today (Friday) at sales under tho Rice Control Scheme and at the .Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and tho Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Marlcot at Choung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
/ Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Rice
Grado Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (9/catty) _
China Rico Average
„ .. old crop Seo Mew - new crop •• •• •
S1#C.Jion - old crop, new crop Good 179*> .
Po Hgal ■■ —
Chu Cho * 9 •* ► ’ ♦'
Thai Rico ' lOC^ri/hole ••
10-15$ Brokens 4 ••
A1 Super Ibrtra Good 1.67
A1 Super Good 1.52 •
Whole Glutinous •» ••
U.S, Rice • Good iK 1.82
Australian Rioo Good 1.80 •
Pakistan Rico
Taiv/an Rico Good 1.60 •
• , - ;
Friday, March 8, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Species / Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (fl/catty)
• Hj£h Low • Avcrago
Golden Thread Good 3.5 2.4 3.0
Big-Byes Good 2.6 0.8 1.8
t Squid Limited 5.8 3.2 4.5
Hair-Tails Good 2.6 1.2 1.8
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.6 1.2 2.0
Croalcero Normal 2.4 1.2 1.8
Conger-Pike-Eels Good 2.6 2.2 2.5
Melon Coat ■b BB ■■ **
Brouns Normal 4.8 3.5 4.0
•Yellow Belly Good 1.8 0.8 1.2
Mackerels Good 3.9 3.2 3.5
Red Goat Fish Good 1.2 0.7 1.0
Fork-Tail Normal 1.4 1.0 1.2
Horse-tfead Good 5.5 3.2 4.5
Melon Seed Normal 3.2. 2.8 5.0
Porrfrets Scarce 10.0 9.0 9.5
Garoupas Normal A 7.5 5.0 6.5
Yellow Croaker BB BB «■ M
• • 1 • • <4 • • ■w • * /Supplies and «.•••••»
Friday, March 8t 1972*
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of
Locally Produced Vegetables
type Availability of Supply Wholesale Price
nigh (8/catty)
Lore Averacro
Flowering cabbage Formal 1.4 0.5 1.0
White cabbage Normal 1.0 0.3 0.7
Chinese Lottuoo Normal. 0.8 0.2 0.5
Chinese Kale Vernal 1©2 0.3 0.7
Spring onion Vermal 0.8 0.3 0.6
Spinach Formal 1.2 0.4 0.8
Water oross Normal 1.0 0o2 o,6
Leaf mustard cabbage Limited 0.9 0.3 0.6
Tomato Limited 1.6 0.4 1.2
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight)
Availability of Supply Wholesale Price ( fl/ picul)
• (Average)
Pork Good . 300
-----0-----
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Saturday, March % 1974
CONTENTS
Page No.
Fair response to Fire Services recruitment drive ••••••••••• 1
Share-out of raw materials to plastics firms nears completion •*•••••••...........................••••••......
Mong Kok will have a new modern market complex •.......... • • • 3
Nev; Fire Station for Yau Ma Tei residents ................ 4
Waterworks Inspector retiring after 11 years’ service •....... 5
Slip roads at junction of Ching Cheung and Castle Peak Roads to bo closed......••••••••••••••••••••••••••............... 5
Charity walk by disabled and SWD staff this Sunday • •••...... 6
Mr. Trevor Bedford of ICAC resigns to take up new job ..•••• 7
There will be a D.I.B. issue tomorrow........................ 7
Release time: 3*00 p.m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Saturday, March 9, 197^
- 1 -
FAIR RESPONSE TO FIRE SERVICES RECRUITMENT DRIVE
*********
Recent Press advertisements for Assistant Station Officers attracted a total of 80 applicants, a Fire Services spokesman revealed today.
Of this number, approximately 60 have been initially accepted for further interviews and tests.
"This is a fair response," the spokesman said, "but we would naturally have liked to see it greater." Normally, about 15 - 20 per cent of applicants were finally accepted.
He said the department had plans to more or less double in size over the next few years and it was essential that sufficient Assistant Station Officers were recruited to fill present vacancies as well as those which would arise in future when new stations were built.
f,Bccause of this expansion prospects for qualified young men joining this department are very good," he said.
On the subject of Rank and File recruitment, the spokesman said there was a present deficiency of 11 per cent, but this would fall to seven per cent in April when 157 vacancies were filled.
"However," he added, "our need for Rank and File officers is going to grow and recruitment must be maintained at a high, level if plans to expand*are to go ahead. In this connection, the current review of firemen’s salaries by the Pay Investigation Unit is eagerly awaited."
The spokesman pointed out that a large number of Fire Services officers began their careers with the department as firemen ox' ambulancemen.
-------0---------
/a........
. • ■”
Saturday, March 9» 197^
- 2 -- > • « $ • <• ,r r LAST STAGE OF PLASTICS SHARE-OUT ********
A share-out of two essential raw materials to local plastics firms is now in its final stage.
Allocations on a quota basis have been arranged by the Commerce and Industry Department to about 1,100 smaller firms qualifying to receive supplies.
About four million pounds of polystyrene and 1.5 million pounds of polyethylene have been made available for allocation by importers and larger manufacturing firms.
The quotas for polystyrene, which have already been issued, amount to 95 per cent of the March supply requirements submitted by firms qualifying to participate in the share-out.
Issue of quotas for polyethylene is now being completed.
The amount available for distribution in four different categories ranges from 25 to 65 per cent of supply requirements for the current month.
n
-------0---------
Saturday, March 9> 197^
- 3 -
HEW MARKET FOR MONG KOK ********
The.Mong Kok Market building at the junction of Argyle Street and Canton Road will soon be demolished to make way for a modern up-to-date market oomplex.
The new market will be a two-storey building with an area of 13?000 square feet. Marketing facilities will be provided on both floors housing the existing stallholders and about 100 hawkers from the surrounding area.
The rooftop of the building is to be used as a playground, as well as providing quarters for the market staff.
The project is part of a programme to provide better market facilities in urban areas. This programme calls for the construction of nevz markets and the reprovisicning of existing ones.
Tenders are now invited for the demolition of the old market building. Piling work will follow directly afterwards and is scheduled for completion by July this year.
Actual construction of the building is expected to begin in early September for completion by the end of August next year.
During the construction of the new complex, the existing stalls will be moved to a nearby temporary market at the junction of Shanghai Street and liong Kok Road. The temporary market is due for completion later this month. _____
-------0---------
Saturday, March 9, 197^
- 4 -
YAU MA TEI FIRE STATION OPENED
*********
Mr. Chan Yam-tong, Chairman of Yau Ha Tei Kaifong Welfare Association, this (Saturday) morning officially opened Yau Ma Tei Fire Station, situated in Waterloo Road.
Mr. Chan was welcomed by the Deputy Director of Fire Services, Mr. Frederick Watson, and the Chief Fire Officer,Kowloon, Mr. Herbert Hutchins.
In a short speech, he referred to the close relations between the public and the Fire Services and to the difficulties in fighting fires due to the large population and the number of multi-stcrey buildings.
,rThese add extra responsibilities to Firemen,” said Mr. Chan. ,fYou are no doubt aware that the Hong Kong Fire Services Department is equipped to the highest standards and is known as one of the best in the world.”
After unveiling a commemorative plaque, Mr. Chan and other guests watched a lion dance by the New Territories Lion Dancing Team and also inspected equipment and toured the newly opened premises.
The station, which cost approximately 31.5 million to build, has a staff of 57 operating two shifts. There are four appliances. The numbor__of people living in the area served by the station is 220,000. Included in the building are Officers’ and Rank and File quarters.
Note to Editors: Copies of a photograph of the opening ceremony
will be boxed for collection later today.
0----
Saturday, March 9, 197^
- 5 -
W/iTERWORKS INSPECTOR RETIRING
*******
Mr, Thomas Barker, a Waterworks Inspector of the Public Works Department, will be retiring shortly after more than 11 years of service.
To mark his retirement, the Director of Water Supplies, Mr. Bill Knight, will present him with a gift on behalf of his colleagues at a ceremony to be held on Monday (March 11).
Mr. Barker first joined the Waterworks Office in 1963 as a Waterworks Inspector II. He was promoted to his present position of Inspector I a year later.
Note to Editors: The presentation ceremony will be held at
4.45 p.m. on Monday in the P.W.D. Conference Room, 21st floor, Murray Building, Garden Road. Reporters and photographers are welcome to cover the occasion.
_______0---------
ROAD CLOSURE
*******
Motorists are advised that the two slip roads at the junction
of Ching Cheung Roa.d and Castle Peak Road in Kowloon will be closed to all vehicular traffic as from Monday (March 11).
The closure is to facilitate the re-construction of the road
pavements. Traffic signs will be posted to guide motorists.
-------0----------
/6.......
Saturday, March 9, 197^
6
DISABLED IN CHARITY WALK
********
Some 28 disabled residents living in the Social Welfare Depar*tment1 s Rehabilitation Center in Aberdeen will participate tomorrow (Sunday) _in the Circle Walk organised by the Community Chest to take place on Hong Kong Island.
The participants comprise 17 physically disabled, including ten in wheelchairs, seven mentally retarded, and four deaf. Three of the participants are women.
Fifteen of the walkers are being sponsored by the Hongkong • - F • •
Round Table No. 5.
The walk will start off from Government Stadium at Soo Kong Po at 1 p.m. tomorrow.
. y Also taking part will be Mr. Kenneth Topley, Director of Social Welfare, and some 200 staff of the department.
0 - -
Saturday, March 9, 197^
7
MH. BEDFORD RESIGNING FROM I.C.A.C.
**********
Mr. Trevor Bedford, the Director of the Corruption Prevention Department of the Independent Commission Against Corruption is to resign from the public service.
He is to take up an appointment with the Hong Kong Land Company-later in the year.
Commenting on Mr. Bedford’s decision to leave the government Mr. Jack Cater, Commissioner Against Corruption said: ”1 am naturally very sorry to lose the services of such an experienced administrator as Mr. Bedford. He has made a considerable contribution to the planning and launching of the Commission. It is vital that we should maintain the impetus on his side of the work of the Commission and we hope to appoint a successor to Mr. Bedford in the near future.”
SUNDAY DIB
*******
Note to Editors: Thore will be an issue of the Daily Information
Bulletin tomorrow (Sunday)• Copies will be available for collection at 2.30 p.m. tomorrow from the G.I.S. Press room, 6th floor, Beaconsfield House.
0 - -
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Sunday, March 10, 197^
EXPENDITURE OF EXPANSION OF EDUCATION SERVICES
«****«««
The government’s estimated expenditure of S1,O69 million on education in the next financial year beginning April 1 allows for expansion j of education services in accordance with present approved policies. It does not provide for expansion of services as recommended in the Report of Board of Education on secondary school education in Hong Kong over the next decade.
The Board’s Report is being examined in the light of public comments«
The Board, which is now back to full strength with the recent appointment of two new members, will be asked in due course to take a view on the various comments and advise the government accordingly.
Only then can a policy White Paper be prepared for Hong Kong’s biggest expansion in the secondary sector of education.
A spokesman for the Education Department said today: "If any target is approved by the government during the 1974/75 financial year, supplementary provisions will have to be sought following publication of the White Paper.
”0f course, every effort will be made to obtain funds as soon as possible for the implementation of any approved project for the expansion of secondary education during the next decade.”
/It should ••••••
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
Sunday, March 10, 197^
- 2 -
It should be remembered that Hong Kong’s population has multiplied sevenfold in a generation.
nevertheless, since September 197% education is free in all government Chinese primary schools and in the majority of aided primary schools.
”This shows that the government in co-operation with voluntary bodies had overcome an immense problem with determination and success,” the spokesman said.
”It is with the same enthusiasm that the government is tackling secondary education expansion,” he added.
The spokesman said the S1,O69 million education bill for the coming financial year included grants, refunds and assistance for various types of schools, recurrent and capital grants to the two Universities and to the Polytechnic, loans to University students and subsidies for students travelling in public transport.
Subventions alone in 197^/75 were expected to amount to 5684,113,000.
By the end of this month, 614,420 places in aided primary schools. . are likely to bo available and this number is expected to increase by 115,350 on completion of 59 aided school projects over the next few years.
The financial commitment involved in providing a total of 18,400 places by the end of 1976/77 for handicapped and educationally sub-normal children in government and aided schools is estimated at over 32J million for buildings and equipment and 517 million in annually recurrent expenditure.
/At the end
Sunday, March 10, 197^
- 3 -
At the end of this month, 3,916 places for handicapped children in aided schools are likely to be available. During 197**-75 it is expected that a further 5»230 places would be provided, bringing the total of such places in aided schools to 9,1*+6.
As regards the financial implications of the revised policy on post-primary education, the estimated cost of providing the additional places required after March 31, 197*+ to meet the likely requirement by March 197$ is about 3*+0 million annually recurrent and 3150 million non-re current•
By March 31, 197*+, 1*+1,050 places are likely to be available in secondary aided and assisted schools. During the next financial year it is intended to subsidize or assist about 20,000 more places.
Since September 1, 1973, the per capita grant for three-year bought places in 25 non-profit-making private secondary schools has been increased from 3192 to 3275 a year for each bought place.
Eighty-four per cent of the per capita grant is to be used on supplementation of qualified teachers’ salaries and 16 per cent on classroom equipment and other items of approved expenditure.
As a result 16,000 pupils in these schools will benefit from the increased grant.
Hong Kong’s capacity to p^apt to changing industrial and commercial conditions greatly depenas on the technical education expansion programme.
The'government’s plans in this field have already been announced. They include the provision of four new technical institutes by 1977 in addition to the existing one at Morrison Hill.
/To cater
Sunday, March 10, 197^
- 4 -
To cater for this considerable expansion, a new technical teachers1 training college will be run on a temporary basis at the Morrison Hill Primary School which is being converted for this purpose. This college will begin courses from September 197^«
The cost of running this temporary college is estimated at 5208,000 non?-re current and 32,162,000 annually recurrent.
"It is envisaged that eventually an entirely new purpose designed Technipal Teachers’ College will be built, and this may possibly share a campus with the proposed Fourth College of Education," the spokesman said.
Initially, two main types of courses - one-year and two-year full-time courses - will be provided.
Those of one-year duration are designed mainly for student teachers who v/ill later take up posts in technical institutes, and entrants to this course will bo mature persons who already have some industrial or commercial experience.
"A system of grants for these students has been approved. The grants v/ill provide them with financial assistance during the one-year course," the spokesman said.
However,' student teachers who receive this allowance will be contractually bound to teach full-time for at least two years after graduation and, in case of default, to refund in full the allowance paid.
"The two-year courses arc designed for student teachers who will ultimately take up teaching posts in secondary technical or provocations! schools," the spokesman said.
/Entrants to ••••«•
Sunday, March 10, 1974
- 5 -
Entrants to this course are normally graduating secondary school leavers in common with entrants to the other Colleges of Education.
The spokesman emphasised that an important aspect of the work of the now technical teachers1 college will be the provision of part-time and refresher courses for serving teachers. Seminars, nworkshops,f and conferences will be regular features.
--------0---------
NEW CLINIC AND MATERNITY HOME FOR SHA TAD KOK
*******
A new standard rural clinic and maternity home in Sha Tau Kok, New Territories, will be in operation as from March 1J.
The two—storey Sha Tau Kok Clinic replaces the existing clinic within the closed area of Sha Tau Kok which has been operating temporary 1 y from rented premises and does not have maternity facilities.
The new clinic, located at Shek Chung Au on a site adjacent to the recreation ground of Sha Tau Kok Primary School, provides an out-patient clinic, including a dispensary on the ground floor and a seven—bod maternity ward and staff quarters on the upper floor.
-------0----------
/6.........
Sunday, March 10, 197^
- 6 -
WATER CUT IN FANLING ♦ ♦♦*****
Water supply to a number of premises in Fanling, New Territories, will be interrupted for eight hours as from 10 p.m. on Wednesday (March 1?)•
The temporary interruption is to facilitate water works in the district.
All premises at On Lok Tsuen, including Shung Him Tong Tsuen and Au Wai Lam Laundry, will be affected.
-------0---------
Release time: 3*00
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Monday, March 11, 1974
CONTENTS
Page No*
Rice import quota increased to ensure adequate consumer rice supply ...................................................... 1
Reclamations in Cheung Sha Wan to provide land for community facilities ••••••••*••••••••••••••*...................... 2
Major traffic re-routing in Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po to facil:tate flyover construction...........*.................. 4
Seven bus routes affected by traffic diversion.........•••••»• 7
Director of Commerce and Industry to open exhibition of consumer packaging......• •.................................. 8
Retirement of a senior Fisheries supervisor •••••••••••••••• 9
Lady MacLehose visits two Community Chest member agencies tomorrow......•.....• •...................................... 10
Works on improved road and public facilities to be carried out in four estates • **•...........*........................ 12
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: 7*2°
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
Monday, March 11, 1974
- 1 -
RICE IMPORT QUOTA. RAISED
*******
The Commerce and Industry Department is raising the rice import quota for the second 'quarter of 1974 to ensure that Hong Kong continues to have abundant stocks available.
An Assistant Director of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Frances Hsiung, said that the quota for the second quarter has been prn-yi anally fixed at 112,500 metric tons — 25 per cent above the basic quarterly quota of 90,000 metric tons.
Mrs. Hsiung stressed that present rice stocks, amounting to 75,000 metric tons, are ample to meet Hong Kong’s needs, and the increased quota would provide an even bigger margin of reserves.
She said that the department will continue to keep developments in the rice trade under close review and will issue a supplementary quota during the quarter if circumstances require it.
In the first two months of this year, Hong Kong imported a total of 52,871 metric tons of rice, of which China supplied 48 per cent and Thailand about 41 per cent. The remainder was imported from Australia, the United States, Burma and Taiwan.
0 - -
Monday, March 11, 197^
- 2 -
MORE LAND FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES
*********
Reclamation works are to be carried out at Cheung SMa Wan in two stages within the next few years to provide land for additional community services.
The first stage comprises the proposed reclamation of 14 acres on the seabed fronting the Cheung Sha Wan Sand Depot to provide a building site for the new permanent wholesale market complex.
The works, which are expected to start some time this year, will involve the construction of a 1,500-foot seawall, and the use of 750,000 cubic yards of filling material.
Cargo handling ^fastlitics for the market complex will be located on the seawall.
With the completion of the new wholesale market, the site of the nearby temporary wholesale market at Hing Wah Street will be released for government, institutional and community purposes.
The future market complex will provide for centralised wholesale facilities fpr dealing with imported vegetables, fruit, poultry, freshwater fish, Crustacea and flowers.
The second stage of the proposed reclamation will take place at a later date, and this will join the completed first stage to the Sham Shui Po reclamation situated to the north of the Sham Shui Po Ferry Pier.
/The second
Monday, March 11, 197^
- 3 -
The second reclaimed area will be about 43 acres, with a 1,670-foot seawall about 1,000 feet off the existing seawall.
The major portion of this reclamation will be used for government, institutional and community uses to offset the present land shortage for such purposes in Nev/ Kowloon West.
One feature to be provided on this reclamation is a section of a road which will form a part of the West Kowloon Corridor road project. This section of the road is intended to link Cheung Sha Wan । with Tai Kok Tsui.
A notification in both English and Chinese has been posted near the sites, requesting members of the public who have objections or claims of private right in respect of the proposed reclamations to write to the Director of Public Works within two months*
-------0---------
Monday, March 11, 1$>?4
NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN KOWLOON
******
An extensive traffic diversion scheme will be introduced in the Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po areas on Wednesday (March 13) to facilitate the construction of an elevated road from Prince Edward Road to Lax Chi Kok Road.
The scheme will involve a number of traffic re-routings or prohibitions on vehicle movement.
It is being implemented because the eastbound carriageway of Prince Edward Road, between Lai Chi Kok Road and Yuen Ngai Street will be temporarily closed to all vehicular traffic.
Under the scheme, Prince Edward Road and Boundary Street will serve as a complementary system with the section of Prince Edward Road between *a Yuen Street and Lai Chi Kok Road re-routed one-way westbound and the section of Boundary Street between Portland Street and Sai Yeung Choi Street re-routed one-way eastbound.
Eastbound traffic from the Sham Shui Po area, presently using Prince Edward Road, will be diverted to Boundary Street via Lai Chi Kok Road.
Westbound traffic coming from the Kowloon City area presently using Boundary Street will be diverted to Prince Edward Road via Fa Yuen Street.
Motorists will no longer be able to make a right turn from Kathan Roa.d eastwards into Prince Edward Road. The alternative routing for this traffic will be via Boundary Street by way of a ”G-turn” through Playing Field Road and Portland Street.
/In addition, .......
Monday, March 11, 1974
- 5 -
In addition, the right-turning movement by northbound traffic on Sai Ycc Street into Prince Edward Road will be not be permitted, instead traffic will have to turn left into Prince Edward Road then travel via Tung Choi Street and Boundary Street.
Long Chuk Street will be re-routed one-way north-bound io facilitate access into the area north of Boundary Street and to relieve any likely congestion on Cheung Sha Wan Road and Nam Cheong Street.
At the junction of Lai Chi Kok Road/Wong Chuk Streot/Boundary Street both the straight ahead and right-turning movements from the eastern approach of Boundary Street will be prohibited. The alternative will be via Tai Nan Street and Nam Cheong Street.
The section of Boundary Street between Lai Chi Kok Road and Tai Kok Tsui Road will be re-routed one-way westbeund. The alternative route for castbound traffic will be via Hoi Tan Street and Nam Cheong Street.
To minimise congestion on Nathan Road between Prince Edward Road and Boundary Street, the picking up and setting down of passengers by public light buses along this section will not be permitted between 7 a»n. and midnight daily. Similar restrictions will apply in Playing Field Road between Nathan Road and Portland Street, Portland Street between Playing Field Road and Boundary Street and on Boundary Street between Nathan Road and Fa Yuen Street.
However, a PLB stand will be set up in Yu Chau Street near its junction with Portland Street.
/A Transport.........
Monday, March 11, 1974
- 6 -
A Transport Department spokesman said that to assist traffic flow around the diversion, the method of traffic control will bo modified at six junctions where traffic light signals are now in operation, in addition, traffic lights will be in operation at the junctions of Boundary Street with Tung Choi Street and Prince Edward Road with Fa Yuen Street.
Traffic signs will also be erected and police officers will be on hand to advise and assist motorists during the initial phase of the implementation of the diversion.
The construction of the S25 million elevated road is scheduled for completion in June next year.
The Traffic Police and the P.V/.D. will keep a close watch on the effect of the temporary traffic diversions, and modifications will bo made if these prove necessary. By these means it is hoped to keep disruption of traffic to a minimum and to carry out flyover construction as quickly os possible.
L
i!otc_ to Editors* Photographs of a map of the diversion arc now available for collection from the GIS Press room.
-------0---------
Monday, March 11, 1974
- 7 -
BUS ROUTES AFFECTED BY FLYOVEH DIVERSION
Seven bus routes will be affected by the major traffic diversion being introduced in the Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po areas on Wednesday (March 13).
The changes involve routes 1, 1A, 13, 2C, 4A, 12A and tlio Cross Harbour route 104. Bus stops will be moved to new locations in accordance with the diversions and commuters are advised to carefully note the arrangements.
Because of the diversion, routes 1, 1A and 13 travelling northbound on Nathan Road will turn left into Playing Field Road, right into Portland Street, right into Boundary Street, right into Fa Yuen Street, and left into Prince jidward Road to continue along the normal route. There will bo no change in these services operating in the opposite direction.
Route number 2C will travel northwards via Sai Yee Street, turn left into Prince Edward Road, right into Tung Choi Street, right into Boundary Street, loft into Tai Hang Tung Road, then travel along the normal route.
In the opposite direction from Tai Hang Tung Road, the buses will turn right into Boundary Street, left into Fa Yuen Street, loft into Irince Edward Road, right into Sai Yee Street, left into Argyle Street, then along the normal route.
Route 4A will only be affected on journeys from Tai Hang Tung. Buses will operate from Tai Hang Tung right into Boundary Street, loft into Fa Yuen Street, right into Prince Edward Road, left into Lai Chi Kok Road, right into Shanghai Street, then normal route.
Buses travelling to the Sham Shui Po Ferry on route 12A will operate via Prince Edward Road then turn right into Tong Mi Road, loft into Lai Chi Kok Road, then continue along the normal route.
/On the
Monday, March 11, 197^
- 8 -
On the 104 Cross Harbour Service, buses travelling northbound on Nathan Hoad will turn left into Playing Field Road, right into Portland Street, right into Boundary Street, left into Tai Hang Tung Road to proceed on the normal route.
In the opposite direction route 10^ buses will turn right from Tai Hang Tung Road into Boundary Street, left into Fa Yuen Street, right into Prince Edward Road, left into Nathan Road, then normal route.
-------0---------
PACKAGING EXHIBITION
Noto to Editors: The Director of Commerce and Industry,
Mr. David Jordan, will open an exhibition of consumer packaging from Japan at the Ocean Terminal main concourse at 12 noon tomorrow (Tuesday).
The exhibition is organised by the Hong Kong Packaging Council and the Japan External Trade Organisation.
Reporters and photographers are welcome to cover the opening ceremony. ---------------------0---------
/9........
Monday, March 11, 1974
- 9 -
FISHERIES SUPERVISOR RETIRING «*««*«*
Mr* Tang Kim-ying, a Senior Fisheries Supervisor, wi 11 retire soon after over 21 years in the public service.
Mr. Tang joined the Agriculture and Fisheries Department as a Fisheries Supervisor Class II in 1955, and was promoted to the post of Senior Fisheries Supervisor in 1968.
In recent years, he has been Secretary of both the Fisheries Development Loan Fund Advisory Committee and Fish Marketing Ad visory Board.
During his career in the department, Mr. Tang performed a diversity of duties, including supervision of fishing gear construction and fishing operations and the processing of loan applications and repayment.
He has also acted as an adviser to fishermen on their problems and played an active part in fisheries extension work including the preparation of the popular "Fishermen's Half Hour" radio programme.
On behalf of his colleagues and friends, the Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mr. E.H. Nichols will present him with a farewell memento on Wednesday (March 13)•
Note to Editors: You are invited to send a reporter and/or
photographer to cover the presentation ceremony which is to take place at 4 p.m. on Wednesday (March 13) in the Conference Room of the Agriculture and Fisheries Department Headquarters on the 14th Floor of the Canton Road Government Offices.
-------0---------
/10 .......
Monday, March 11, 197^
10 -
VISITS BY LhPY MACLEHOSE
***««*«*
Lady MacLehose will visit two member agencies of the Community Chest of Hong Kong tomorrow morning (Tuesday) in her capacity as President of the Chest.
The two agencies are both located in Kowloon — the Society for the Blind Training Centre and the Workers Tours and Travel Service.
Accompanied by Miss Susan Hume, Social Secretary of Government House, and Mr. Colin Morrison, Executive Director of the Chest, T-ady MacLehose will first visit the Training Centre which offers rehabilitation services as well as vocational training for the blind.
Vocational training provided includes training in telephony and piano tuning. Individual courses are conducted to help the blind familiarise themselves with daily living routines, such as cooking, and communications skills, including braille, typing and writing.
A braille and "talking book" library is also located in the Centro for the recreation and reference of the trainees.
Lady MacLehose will next visit the Workers Tours and Travel Service which aims to encourage workers employ their leisure time in healthy and worthwhile activities. ---- • .
The Travel Service operates low-cost tours on weekends and holidays to the outskirts and places of interest in Hong Kong, as wel 1 as organising picnics, hiking, camping, swimming and other sporting events.
/Visiting tours .....
Monday। March 11, 197^
- 11 -
Visiting tours are also conducted to government departments, film studios, large industrial concerns, welfare organisations and so on.
Note to Editors: Reporters and photographers are invited
to cover the visit at the Society for the Blind Training Centre. The Centre is located on the 7th floor of the Lutheran World Service Building, 33 Granville Road. Press representatives are requested to arrive at the Centre at 10 a.m. Miss Brigitta Wongf Administrative Assistant to the Chest, will be on hand to assist them.
The Workers Tours and Travel Service is located at 1 Dyer Avenue, Hung Hom.
-------0---------
/12
Monday, March 11, 197^
- 12 -
BETTER COMMUNICATION FACILITIES AT HOUSING ESTATES «
**«***«*«
Construction will shortly be carried out at four public housing estates to provide internal roads and open areas for use as carparks, bus termini and recreation grounds.
The estates are Lek Yuen San Tsuen in Shatin, Kwai Shing., Lai King and Lei Muk Shue.
At Lek Yuen, there will be about 1,200 metres of internal roads, eight Open car parks, one public light bus terminus, one KMB terminus, and 3,000 square metres of recreation area.
Work is expected to start in May and take about 18 months.
At the other three estates,, a total of 1,500 metres of internal roads will be built and surfaced, together with two public light bus termini, one KMB terminus, 18 open car parks, and 5,9°O square metres of recreation ground.
This work is also due to start in May and is expected to take about 19 months to complete.
The projects are designed by the Highways (New Territories) Division of the Highways Office, which will supervise the construction works.
0 - -
Monday, March 11, 197^
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guido To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
Tho fol lowing prices v/cro realised today (Monday) at sales under tho Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Marlcot at Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Rice
Grado Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (fl/catty).
China Rico Average
_ - old crop See Mow - new crop Good 1.96 2.0
S.C.Jion - new crop Good 1.9^
Po llgai Good 1.63
Chu Clio - —
Thai pj_cc lOtyFi/holO Good 1.91
10-15% Brokcns - —
A1 Super Extra - —
A1 Super Good 1.52
Whole Glutinous - —
9 V.S. Rice Good 1.82
Australian Rioo - —
Pakistan Rico - —
Taiwan Rico • —
/Supplies and •••••••
Monday, March 11, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Availability Wholesale Price
Species of Supply (8/catty) __
High Low ■ Average
Golden Thread Good 4.0 2.5 5.2
Big-Eyes Good 2.4 0.6 1.8
Squid Limited 6.0 5.2 4.0
Hair-Tails Good 2.4 1.1 2.0
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.45 1.2 1.8
Croakers Limited 1.6 1.2 1.5
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 2.5 1.7 2.0
Melon Coat — •
Breams Normal 4.8 4.0 4.5
Yellow Belly Good 1.2 0.8 1.5
Mackerels Good 4.0 5.2 5.5
Red Goat Fish Good 2.2 0.7 1.5
Fork-Tail Normal 1.5 0.8 1.4
Horsc-tfead Good 5.5 5.0 4.5
Melon Seed Limited 2.2 • 1.5 2.0
Poofrcts Limited 10.0 7.5 8.5
Garoupas Good 7.0 5.0 6.0
Yellow Croaker Normal 6.5 5.0 5.5
/Supplies and
Monday, March 11, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of
Locally Produced Vegetables r'-
Availability Wholesale Price
type of Supply (S/catty)
HiRh Low Average
Flowering cabbage Normal 1.4 0.5 1.0
White cabbage Normal 0.8 0.3 0.5
Chinese Lettuce Normal. 0.8 0.2 0.5
Chinese Kale Normal O.85 0.3 0.5
Spring onion Good 0.6 0.2 0.4
Spinach Normal 1.2 0.4 0.8
Water cross • • Normal 0.8 0.2 0.5
Leaf mustard cabbage Limited 0.8 0.3 0.6
^®¥omato Limited 1.6 0.5 1.0
Availability of Supply
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight).
Wholesale Price ( $/ picul)
(Average)
. 300
Pork Good
------ 0 - -
PRH 7
H-< ISSBIR |gis| |m
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Tuesday, March 12, 197^
CONTENTS
Pago Mo,
Budget Debate resumed tomorrow in Legislative Council •• 1
Hong Kong manufacturers urged to improve packaging as a sales booster................................................ 2
Aberdeen CDO sub-office moves to new address......... 3
KLight information display centre at airport to improve internal communications system.............................. 4
Advisory Committee considers ways to streamline rice control scheme ............................................ 5
New traffic arrangements in Central and San Po Kong .... 7
Death sentence commuted................................... 8
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: p.r.i.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
Tuesday, March 12, 10?4
~ 1 -
BUDGET DEBATE
Debate on the Appropriation Bill 1974 resumes at 2.30 n.m. tomorrow when unofficial members of the Legislative Council will givo tbc.ir views on t’c financial and economic state of Bone Kong and the general principle© of government policy and administration no indicated by the bill and ostimatos.
Coven members will speak tomorrow (Wednesday). They arc: the Hon.
Woo ?d>chuon, the Hon. Szeto Wai, the Hon. Wilfred Wong, the Hon. 'Wilson Wang, Dr. the Ion. Chung Szo-yuon, the Hon. Leo Quo-wei, and the lion. Oswald Cheung.
Breaking on Thursday will bo tho Hon. Ann Tso-kai, tho Hon. hrs.
Joyco Symons, the Hon. P.G. Williams, the Hon. Jamon V/u, the Hon. Hilton Jhoong-Loon, tho Hon. O.M. Sayer, and tho Hon. Li Fook-wo.
Doth days proceedings will be broadcast livo on I’riK 2 (Chinese) and ilIK 4 (llnglish), and on the Chinese Sorvico of Commercial ilnclio (Channel Ono).
Tho official members will reply to points rained by their unofficial colloo'juoo on Earch 27.
At tomorrow’s nona ion, the Hon. t *s. Joyce Symons wi 1 j for n ntatojont on tho rocont tragedy in Tolo Harbour due to tho ovorlofl'. in*; of a boat, and what urgent action tho government intends to take to prevent a roevrronco.
’ilio White Paper on the problem of dangerous drugs in Hong Kong will ho tabled and the Secretory for Security will make a brief ntatorout.
Five bills will be introduced in Council at ton arrow’s sitting. These rro: Tho Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill, tho Quarantine eud Prevention of Disorno (amendment) Bill, tho Employment (Amendment) Bill, tho Wori-ncn’a Com sonne t:on (Amendment) Bill, and the Landlord rn:l Tenant (CannoliNation) (Axiondmont) Bill.
-------0 -------- /> .....................
Tuesday, March 12, 197^
- 2 -
IMPORTANCE OF CONSUMER PACKAGING STRESSED «*•*»«
The Director of Commerce and Industry, Mr. David Jordan, today urr-od Hong Kong’s manufacturing industry to take advantage of opportunities to learn ways and means of upgrading its packaging standards.
”As the quality of our products continues to improve, it is important that there should be similar improvements in consumer packaging, particularly when we face, as we do, increasing competition in our export markets,” he said.
hr. Jordan was speaking at the opening of an exhibition of consumer packaging at the Ocean Terminal organised by the Hong Kong Pacl^xging Council and the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO).
He said it was an opportunity to study and admire what Japan had
• e achieved as the acknowledged pacemakers in the packaging field.
The exhibits on display, he pointed out, had been selected in consultation with the Hong Kong Design Centre with an eye to the particular needs of the Hong Kong manufacturing industry.
Hr. Jordan said that good packaging was necessary ”to sell what it protects and to protect what it sells.”
He added: ”In this age of supermarkets and self-service, packaging plays a large part in promoting and selling the product — it’s not Just an irritating additional expense.
”The materials used and the markings on the package must conform to t-’G legislation of the importing country, and this is especially true in markets such as the United States and the United Kingdom whore consumer protection interests are active.
/’’At the...........
Tuesday, March 12, 1974
- 3 -
"At the same time, the package should highlight the essential features of the product. Furthermore, its size and shape should facilitate distribution, retail storage and subsequent display, handling and chocking."
Good packaging had largely taken over from the old-fashioned shop - :
assistant at the point of sale, he said, and it was important that hong Kong should fully realise this, as we were basically oriented to producing consumer goods for Western markets.
Mr. Jordan said that international recognition of the quality of the work being undertaken locally was accorded at the beginning of 1975 when 2long Kong became the headquarters of the World Packaging Organisation.
Koto to Fditors: Copies of the full text of Mr. Jordan’s
address are boxed for collection. ---------------------0---------
CDO SUB-OFFICE MOVES
******
The Aberdeen Sub-Office of the Western City District Office will move to new premises at 52-64 Aberdeen Main Road, ground floor, Hong Long, this Saturday (March 16).
The telephone number for public enquiries will be changed to 5-524429* The Aberdeen Sub-Office’ is now situated at 200 Aberdeen Hain Road, 1st floor, Hong Kong.
-------0---------
Tuesday, March 12, 1974
- 4 -
*>*
FLIGHT INFORMATION DISPLAY CENTRE
*********
A room for a flight information display centre is to be set up at the airport terminal as part of its continual development programme.
The room, occupying some 900 square feet, will be fully air-conditioned for the delicate electronic equipment to be installed. There will also be a false floor for the complicated wiring system required for the computer to control the display system.
This computer will be connected to all public areas in the terminal where a network of large display boards with revolving flaps will give flight information up to the moment.
The system will also be linked by television monitors to airlines and other administrative offices to keep everyone informed of the latest flight movements.
Construction of the room is expected to begin in April and will take three months. The instruments will be installed at the beginning of next year and the computerised system should be operational by April next year.
Also at the airport, a temporary link will be constructed at the apron side of the terminal building.
This will facilitate the routing of passengers while Bay 5 is under construction in the next 12 months.
This work is also expected to start in April and be completed three months afterwards.
-------0--------- /5 .....................
Tuesday, March 12, 197^
- 5 -
MEASURES TO IMPROVE RICE CONTROL SCHEME DISCUSSED
Various measures to improve the operation of the rice control scheme to protect the interests of the consumer were discussed today at the first meeting of the Rice Advisory Committee set up by the Commerce and Industry Department.
The committee comprises eight members representing the import, wholesale and retail sectors of the trade and DC & I officials.
t
Mr. Jimmy McGregor, Deputy Director of Commerce and Industry, who is chairman of the committee, said after the meeting that a full and frank discussion had taken place on measures to eliminate speculative activity in the rice trade.
Agreement had been reached on establishing a fixed scale of maximum mark-ups to apply at the three levels of the trade in line with prevailing import costs.
At the present time, the agreed scale of mark-ups will be
S20 per picul by the importer, S2 per picul by the wholesaler and 340 per picul by the retailer.
The aim is to stabilise retail prices of top-grade rice at $2.40 per catty, with lower grades correspondingly cheaper.
Written undertakings to observe a maximum scale of mark-ups will be given to the Commerce and Industry Department by members of the committee representing the importers, wholesalers and retailers.
The committee also discussed arrangements for direct sale of rice to large organisations and major retail outlets.
/It was •••••».
TUesday, March 12, 197^
- 6 -
It was agreed that the Commerce and Industry Department would register companies wishing to participate, and written authorisations would be issued to enable direct purchases from importers.
The minimum sale to companies employing 200 workers or more will be one ton at each transaction. For major retail outlets the minimum will be five tons#
Mr. McGregor said that Secretariat approval will be sought to extend the legal powers provided under the rice control scheme.
This would involve a change in the law to enable registration of wholesalers so that effective action could be taken to stop any malpractices in dealings between wholesalers and retailers.
In the meantime, the members of the committee have undertaken to bring to the attention of the Commerce and Industry Department any malpractices which come to their notice.
Ih; McGregor said that the committee had considered at length the internal distribution of rice supplies to er^ure that adequate quantities are available in both the cheaper and more expensive grades.
The terms of reference of the committee are to advise the Director of Commerce and Industry on the administration of the rico control scheme and all aspects of the rice trade.
It is intended to appoint one or two consumer representatives to serve on the committee and consideration is now being given to choosing suitable members.
Mr. McGregor informed the committee that it was proposed, in addition, to appoint a member to represent major retail outlets.
-------o--------- /?........
Tuesday, March 12, 197^
- 7 -
NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN CENTRAL
******
The section of Des Voeux Road Central between Clevery Street and Morrison Street is to be temporarily re-routed one-way to cater for west-bound traffic only.
The new arrangements will come into effect from 10 a.m. on
Thursday (March 14) and will continue for a period of about two months#
The measure is being taken to ease traffic congestion in the area during the renewal of the tram tracks.
Because of the re-routing, all traffic in Connaught Road Central, except trams, will be prohibited from entering Clevery Street#
Motorists will also be prohibited from making right turns from Morrison Street into Des Voeux Road Central.
Buses on routes 5, 5A, 5B, 10 and 101 will be re-routed via Man Wah Lane.
On the following day (Friday, March 15) new traffic arrangements will be introduced from 10 a.m. in the industrial area of San Po Kong to improve traffic flow.
A clearway system will be imposed along the entire lengths of Tai Yau Street and Tseuk Luk Street and on King Fuk Street between Sam Chuk Street and King Tai Street.
All motor vehicles will be prohibited from stopping in these streets during the clearway hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
In conjunction with the clearway system, the existing metered parking spaces in Sheung Hei Street, Sam Chuk Street, Pat Tat Street and Tsat Po Street will be re-designated for the use of goods vehicles only.
Traffic signs will be erected in the various locations to guide motorists.
-------o--------- —
1
Tuesday, March 12, 197^
- 8 -
DEATH SENTENCE COMMUTED
******
The Governor, after taking into consideration the advice of the Executive Council, has decided that the death sentence passed on Chan Hon-tong on February 26 last year should be commuted to life imprisonment,
Chan was found guilty of the murder of Wong Yuk-lin.
- 0 - -
Tuesday, March 12, 1974
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
The following prices were realised today (Tuesday) at sales under the Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Rice
Grade Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (g/catty)
China Rice Average
_ old crop See Men ~ — -
- new crop
S.C.Jion - new crop Good 1.9^
Po Ilgai - ••
Chu Cho - —
Thai Rice lOtfH/hole -
10-15/0 Brokens Good 1.89
A1 Super Extra - •w
A1 Super Good 1.52
Whole Glutinous - -
U.S, Rice Good 1.82
Australian Riqe Good 1.8
Pakistan Rice -
Taiwan Bice - , ••
/Supplies and
Tuesday, March 12, 197^
Supplies and Wholesale, Prices of Marine Fish
Availability Wholesale Price
Species of Supply (S/catty)
THf-h low - Average
Golden Thread Good 4.2 2.8 5.8
Big-Eyes Good 2.7 0.8 1.8
Squid Limited 6.0 3.0 4.5
Hair-Tails Good ,2.7 1.2 2.0
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.6 1.1 2.0
Croakers Normal 2.4 1.2 1.7
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 3.0 2.0 2.7
Melon Coat Limited 2.0 1.0 1.6
Breons Limited 5.5 3.8 5.0
Yellow Belly Good 1.6 0.8 1.2
Mackerels Good 4.0 3.0 5.5
Red Goat Fish Normal 1.2 0.6 0.9
Fork-Tail Normal 1.4 0.9 1.2
Horse-Head Normal 6.0 3.3 5.0
Melon Seed Limited 2.8. 1.8 2.4
Poofrets Limited 8.5 8.0 8.2
Gnroupas Normal 6.5 5.5 6.0
Yellow Croaker Good 5.7 4.2 5.0
/Supplies and «.<
Tuesday, March 12, 1972*
Sujroli^s end V?vleralo PH cos of Loe al ly Produced Voretablos
Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (8/catty). _
Hirh w-—-• - 10’.7 Average
Flowering cabbage Limited 1.6 0.8 1.2
White cabbage Normal 0.8 0.3 0.5
Chinese Lettuce Normal 0.8 0.3 o»5
Chinese Kale Limited 1.0 0.4 0o7
Spring onion Good 0.6 0.2 0.4
Spinach Lind, ted 1.2 0.3 0.8
Water cross • Good 0.8 0.2 0.5
Loaf mustard cabbage Limited 0.7 0.2 0.5
Tomato Limited 1.6 0.5 1.0
Sujyplios and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live v/cjrht)
Availability Wholesale Price
of Supply ( 8/ picul)
• • (Average)
Pork Good ’ JOO
0
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Wednesday, March 13, 1974
CONTENTS
Page No,
Government is urged to take counter measures against inflation...........................................#...... j
Gall for price controls of essential commodities......... 5
Government should make use of reserves »••«••••••••••••••• 8
Need to provide more secondary school places stressed ..•« 11
Proposal for the setting up of a price stabilization body . 13
Greater government involvement to assist in further growth of Hong Kong’s economy is called for.......................... 17
White Paper on narcotics tabled............................ 20
Ferry companies to be asked to expand services to rural areas.................................................. e e 24
Renewal of bus franchises .....................•••••••••••• 25
******
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: 8,30 P«m,
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 1 -
UNUFFICIALS SPEAK WITH ONE VOICE
Mr. Woo Calls For Counter Measures Against Inflation
******** t'
Unofficial members of the Legislative Council are strongly against any scaling down of the social targets set in the fields of education, housing, social welfare and other* community services, despite the difficulties involved in raising the huge sum to pay for them.
,r\7e remain committed to programmes which will provide a better life for all in the 1980s,” the Senior Unofficial Member, the Hon. Woo Pak^chuen, stressed dux'ing the resumed Budget debate today.
”It is an enormously expensive programme/1 he added, ,Tbut to turn back now because cf inflation and other difficulties would be an admission of defeat.”
He pointed out that new sources of revenue would have to be found to meet the targets, but he and his unofficial colleagues disagreed with the Financial Secretary that the money should be raised by increasing the rate of direct
!We do not believe that an increase in direct taxation is the right way,” said Mr. Woo.
When the time came to look for new sources of revenue, the unofficial favoured indirect taxation and a system which would share the burden equitably among those more readily able to bear the cost.
/trWe must
Wednesday, March 1J, 197^
- 2 -
fWe must look for means of taxation which take money out of the hands of the more well-to-do,” he said, emphasising that the form of taxation adopted should not have the effect of inflating the cost of essential basic commodities.
The approach recommended by the unofficials to help meet the vast capital development programme was to borrow as far as it was possible to do so, negotiate a loan from the World Bank and, at the same time, float government bonds in the local market.
’Utilisation of a portion of our reserves need not be regarded as out of the question,” Mr. Woo added, ’’though we do accept the case for maintaining a substantial sum by way of reserves.”
He also repeated his call for speeding up sales of land — Hong Kong’s ’’greatest potential cash asset” — for private development.
He urged that a study be made of various means by which a policy of increasing indirect taxation, as suggested by the unofficials, could bo put into effect. The results of the study should be published and opportunity should be given for the maximum consultation and discussion.
Turning to the Financial Secretary’s tax proposals in the sphere of transport, Mr. Woo described them as ’’premature” and called for them to bo deferred for the time being pending the publication of the green paper on transport.
’’Decisions should first be taken on the policy to be adopted in relation to various types of public transport,” he stressed.
’’The general public have for long been promised the opportunity of putting forward their views in accordance with the philosophy of open government. Only after these views have been considered and policy decided
should licence and other fees be raised.”
/He added •••••••
Wednesday, March 1J, 1974
- 3 -
He added that if it was imperative for fiscal reasons to rai se additional revenue at once, then other sources of indirect taxation should be considered. Mr. Woo emphasised, however, ”the governments policies must be related to the need to keep down the basic living costs of the man in the street.”
”The greatest criticism of the budget is the failure to renngnise or propose counter measures against inflation” said Mr. Woo.
’’Consideration must be given to means of stabilising the prices of at least essential commodities and of keeping down price rises in respect of those commodities to the absolute minimum,” he said.
Mr. Woo welcomed the measures being taken to curb profiteering in rice and suggested that the similar steps should bo taken to dnnl wi th other foodstuffs.
- • r .
He again underlined the importance of setting up an Economic Advisory Committee. It should have unofficial representation and should keep constantly under review the economic problems of the day. ”At the present time the number one problem is inflation and its effect on the cost of living.”
Mr. Woo noted that the unofficials welcomed the proposal for a Consumer Council to which people could take complaints on prices and other consumer matters. It would be up to the Council to prevent profiteering, but if profrtcrcring did take place extensively "legislation against it will have to be considered.”
/Commenting on •••••••
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 4 -
Commenting on government spending, Mr. Woo said that at a time when increased taxation was being discussed the need arose for much closer control of government expenditure.
While the Financial Secretary had made the point that heads of departments must keep to their budgeted sums and cut out unnecessary waste of expenditure, Mr. Woo suggested that savings could be made for instance in quartering leasing of accommodation, travelling expenses, and consumption of stationery and office equipment.
Mr. Woo said the Financial Secretary’s speech showed that Hong
Kong vias or had almost come to the crossroads. "Gone are the days when automatic revenue* surP^-uses provided for all our needs both for current and also for capital expenditure. The pace of public spending is very much greater now."
He said all members of the community would inevitably have to tighten their belts and adjust their standard of living.
"But the period of austerity need not be too long if we all pull together, work somewhat harder and a little longer, and exercise economy 9 and restraint."
0 - -
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 5 -
CALL FOR PRICE CONTROLS OF ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES Inflation Biggest Problem Today Says Mr. Szeto Wai ********
The Hon* Szeto Wai today called for urgent measures with effective legal control over the prices of rice and other foodstuff and essential commodities.
Speaking in the resumed Budget debate in the Legislative Council, he said that more than anything else, "inflation is the one worry that looms large in everyone’s mind today".
,rIn the course of last year," he said, "prices of staple foodstuff and essentials have spiralled and continue to spiral today-while government remains reluctant to interfere."
Ho stressed that the time had come that the government must be seen to be genuinely concerned with the situation created by "unscrupulous merchants and profiteers in our midst ".
On the accounts for the current year, Mr. Szeto noted that the S425 million excess in expenditure is 9.6 per cent over the approved estimate and 13 per cent over the actual expenditure in 1972-73*
However, he considered a good part of the increase was due to inflationary prices in Public Works Non-Recurrent projects and thus the true increase value should be much smaller, say about five to six per cent, taking into consideration the proportionate cost of public works projects to total capital expenditure.
"In comparison, it is much lower in true value than the 9*8 per cent increase in 1969-70 over 1968-69 or the 11.2 per cent increase in 196&*69 over 1967~68 when building prices were stable," he added.
/"Clearly,
Wednesday, March 13, 1974
- 6 -
"Clearly, we are now suffering from our tardiness in expanding our community services in early years, especially in transport," Mr. Szeto said.
Roadworks, he noted, had for years come second in importance to waterworks and housing and it was not until 1972-73 when its expenditure was boosted to 3113 million.
"This year's original provision of 3144 million demonstrates the government's determination to resolve our transport problems," he said.
Mr. Szeto recalled that roadwork expenditure for 1969-70 was a mere 342 million. This went up to 330 million in 1970-71 and 368 million in 1971-72.
He emphasized, however, that he was not comparing likes with likes as "we are caught by escalating costs and have to pay over double for what we could have achieved in early years".
Turning to the 1974-75 Budget, Mr. Szeto commended the Financial Secretary for his considerably more realistic proposals than those in previous years, and in particular for his courage to break away from the long held policy of budgeting for surplus.
He regretted, however, that the Financial Secretary found it necessary to balance the deficit by cutting back 3205 million in public works projects and "by resorting to certain fiscal measures even at the risk of jeopardizing the public's faith in 'open government'".
Referring to the 1974-75 estimated capital expenditure, Mr. Szeto said it had a 3294 million or 26 per cent increase for projects in tlic Public Works Programme over the current year’s revised estimate.
/Of the
Wednesday, March 13, 1974
- 7 -
Of the total Non-Recurrent Public Works expenditure of 3*1,408 million, 3255 million is for roadwork which is ^8 per cent up on 1973-74, 125 per cent up on 1972-73 and as much as 275 per cent up on 1971-72. n0f course, these increases are in terms of cost which have escalated almost 100 per cent since 1971,” he said.
Nevertheless, he added it was exhilarating to know that ”our transport problems are given the proper priority in that our long neglected roadwork programme is being expanded and accelerated."
Mr. Szcto labelled the Financial Secretary’s proposals to restructure vehicle licence fees and parking charges as a ’’bitter pi 11” for the already suffering motorists.
He recalled that the Legislative Council was promised by the Financial Secretary that he would refrain from proposing any restraint measures on road use until after a debate on a comprehensive transport policy had taken place.
By putting forward the proposals, he said, the Financial Secretary would pre-empt the public from the opportunity of debating the much publicised Green Paper on Transport Policy which the government had pledged to it.
For this reason alone, Mr. Szeto said, he was unable to support his proposals.
He said that since it was the Financial Secretary’s chief aim to raise additional revenue to off-set deficit, it would be prudent to forgo a fraction of the anticipated additional revenue and defer the proposals for three or four months until after the publication and subsequent debate in the Council on the policy after the Green Paper had emerged as a White Paper.
The resultant loss of revenue, he added, would be minimal and might be recovered from other sources without tears.
-------o---------- /8.........
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 8 -
‘HAKE USE OF RESERVES’ MR. WILFRED WONG TELLS GOVERNMENT
Morits Of Deficit Budgeting Outlined
********
Hong Kong's budgetary policy should ideally be to go into deficit and draw on its reserves, according to the Hon. Wilfred Wong.
Speaking during the resumed Budget debate, Mr. Wong said: "As future revenues will be lower and as expenditure will be higher, the benefit of our large reserves should reach the present generation as well as the future generation.”
He noted that reserves were derived from taxes which came from the public and as such the public expected the reserves to cushion them against taxes' on rainy days.
’’Surely," he added, "reserves are means to an end and not an end in themselves." They should not be our ’sacred cow’.
Mr. Wong expressed surprise over the Financial Secretary's statement that there can be no question of our compounding our future problems by carrying forward a deficit, no matter how small, to the general revenue balance.
"This statement," Mr. Wong said, "appears to rule out any possibility of drawing on our reserves and points directly to the probability of increasing taxation in the future."
But should Hong Kong go into deficit financing taxes need not be raised, he said. Any tax increase would not only discourage local enterprise, but also foreign investment which plays a key role in Hong Kong’s financial structure. /-r , . u,
/
Wednesday, March 13? 1974
- 9 -
In viovz of the significance of foreign investment, ho urged the government to reconsider the imposition of withholding tax- "Secondly there is no need to raise money by taxation since we have a large reserve", Mr. Wong said.
The economy। he went on, remained basically strong despite the falling stock market, inflation and the world energy crisis.
i/horeas the world economy had experienced five business cycles I of boom and recession between 1890 and 1939? he said, Heng Kong had enjoyed, with most of the world, continued prosperity since the end of World War II in 19^5• He attributed this phenomenon to the existence of free enterprise and low taxation here.
He noted that while revenue increased from $4,900 rri 11i nn in 197^73 to $3?200 million in 1973/74 — an increase of nearly seven per cent —-expenditure went up by more than 12 per cent, from $4,300 nilIt on in 1972/73 to $4,800 million in 1973/74. "This will probably establish a pattern and a warning must now be sounded because economic forces not only have a tendency towards fluctuations, but the effects of man-made energy ?tt st s which permeate every economic activity cannot be under-rated."
He also envisaged the financial problem that the long-term development programmes would pose to Hong Kong.
With Hong Kong’s ever increasing social, community, economic and gneral services, coupled with the planned expansion of the ten year programmes in education, medical services and housing, he said, the odds are that someday expenditure will greatly exceed revenue.
/Hong Kong ••»••••
Wednesday, March 15, 197^
- 10 -
Hong Kong will therefore have to face these problems long before the ten year programmes are completed, he stressed. The public works programme for the next 10 years alone will absorb $28,000 million at the present price of materials and labour.
Turning to the mass transit railway system, he endorsed the government’s intention to adopt, as a means of financing the balance apart from equity, a funded debt which is a sort of government bond.
On inflation, Mr. Wong observed that while he agreed that it is a world-wide phenomenon, he did not agree that Hong Kong could not plan ahead so as to alleviate, to a certain extent, its own rise in food prices.
,fThis will, however, require special techniques for dealing with rice imports, the encouragement of vegetable planting and fishing," ho added.
Countering an assertion that an economic advisory committee would erode the position of the Executive Council, Mr. Wong defined the Executive Council as "a sort of cabinet with policy-making powers", whereas the economic advisory committee would be a committee and its functions advisory in nature•
"We like to think of the Hong Kong government as the most efficient government, but even the most efficient government may benefit from the advice of the advisory committees," he stressed.
Generally, Mr. Wong expressed admiration for the ,fbrilliant and thorough presentation" of the budget.
-------0--------- r .--------------- •
/11
Wednesday, March 13, 1972*
"MORE SECONDARY SCHOOL PLACES NEEDED NOV/" - MR. W. WANG «<»«****
The government was today urged to take immediate steps to provide sufficient secondary education school places for primary school leavers this year*
According to the Hon. Wilson Wang, some 30,000 pupils will not be able to continue their education after the Secondary School Entrance Examinations results are published, "a very frightening figure indeed*"
To this must be added the number of children who dropped out of primary school altogether and it could be assumed that there were at leas4; 30,000 of them, he said, sounduxg warning that "time is running short if improvement is to be made to reduce the hardship of our primary school leavers this summer."
In view of the importance he attached to education, Mr. Wang devoted his entire speech in the Budget debate to thxs subject.
A study of the situation, he said, showed that the present provision of education is inadequate and government assistance unrealistic.
Referring to the interim target set by the Education Green Paper for the provision of aided places to 80 per cent of children between the ages of 12 and 14 by 1981, Mr. Wang said this will not offer a satisfactory solution.
An ad hoc group of the unofficial members of the Legislative Council was formed after the publication of the Green Paper and a report of its findings had gained the unanimous support of alL. unofficial members, he sai '
And in order to create 20.0C0 to 30,000 more places to make good for the coming academic year, two conditions must be accepted
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 12 -
First, he said, bi-sessionalism or some form of maximising the usage of present school facilities must be adopted.
He recognised that bisessionalism in the form described in the Green Paper had been strongly criticised but suggestions including those from professional groups had been made to make good its apparent weakness, he said•
Secondly, Mr* Wang went on, more financial provision should be made for the additional expenditure involved.
”1, for one, believe that there should not be any difficulty in such a provision which I estimate to cost no more than O.p percent of the total expenditure estimate or three per cent of the 31,070 million appropriated for the total expenditure for education in the coming year."
Outlining the differentiation in government subsidy, Mr. Wang said those granted free-remission for five years get some 38,000, those with three-year places about 34,800 in subsidized schools and 31,800 in assisted schools, those allocated a bought place in private schools about 31,350, while those studying in private schools have to pay about 3700 a year at no cost to the government.-
”What is even more our deeper concern is those 30,000 drop-outs, among whom not a few are not necessarily inferior in quality or academic standards,” he said.
Those able to study in private schools, he added, were only able to do so because they did not belong to poorer families.
-------0 - • • »
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 13 -
PRICE STABILIZATION BODY PROPOSED
To Check Rising Prices
*******
Dr. the Hon. S.Y. Chung today called for the setting up of a price stabilization committee to find ways and means to reduce the rate of inflation •
Speaking during the resumed Budget debate Dr. Chung said that the committee should consist of senior government officials, economic experts and community leaders.
He pointed out that it was during the first half of last year when the significant rate of inflation began to creep in. By June 1973, the 12-month moving average of consumer price index had gone up by 10 per cent as compared to that of a year ago.
’’Three months later, by September last year, it moved up to 19 per cent and at the end of 1973 the average annual rate of inflation reached almost 20 per cent which is the highest since 1963/64 when the index was introduced/* he said.
x On the other hand, Dr. Chung went on, nominal wage increase during the same period was only 11 per cent.
Therefore, for the first time since real wage index was compiled in 1963, there was a reduction in real wages of nine per cent in the manufacturing industry and of seven per cent in all industries.
/Turning to •••*•••
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 14 -
Turning to the rising prices of foodstuffs and other commodities, he said: "It is true that a large element of Hong Kong’s inflation is imported ... but it is equally true that there is profiteering and hoarding by some unscrupulous merchants."
Dr. Chung referred to a list of statistics distributed a few days ago to Urielco by the Secretary for Economic Services showing* monthly average prices of certain foodstuffs for 1972 and 1973.
He pointed out that in the case of pork, the average import price during the last quarter of 1973 as compared with the corresponding period in 1972 showed an increase of only S60 whereas the wholesale price had increased by $85 and the retail price by $155.
In the case of poultry, the element of local inflation was worse, with the average increase in retail price tripling the average increase in import price.
The worst of these three cases was beef. "The average import price in the last quarter 1973 was in fact lower than that in the first quarter of 1972, but the average wholesale price had increased by $60 and the average retail price by as much as $170," he said.
On the subject of depreciation, he said rapid inflation in many countries — developed and developing alike — in recent years had created now problems.
One of the problems was the growing disparity in capital return between investment in appreciating assets (real estate property) and investment in depreciating machinery (manufacturing companies).
/Dr. Chung •••••••
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 15 -
Dr. Chung expressed the hope that the government would look at the issue of ’inflation accounting1 with an aim of providnng a more equitable tax policy for the manufacturing companies vi^-a—vis the property companies.
He said that in the past when inflation was low, there might not be a need for inflation accounting. But with an annual inflation rate of 15 to 20 per cent the situation had changed.
He recalled that some years ago a proposal was made to the government for changing the depreciation formula from reducing balance to straight line. The proposal was not accepted at that time.
’’Since the Financial Secretary is now anxious to offer encouragement to manufacturers to re—equip and upgrade their plant and equipment in the light of changing conditions,” he said, "it is hoped that he will reconsider this particular matter and permit the use of straight line method for depreciation.”
Dr. Chung supported the Financial Secretary’s proposal that it is now time to have a review on the moratorium policy of banking licences. t
But he stressed that any newcomer, whether foreign or local, must be thoroughly scrutinized and be able to fulfil Hong Kong’s strict banicing conditions and to meet Hong Kong’s high banking standards.
Like some of his unofficial colleagues, Dr. Chung criticised the proposals on transport tax increases.
/He urged ••«••••
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 16 -
He urged that the increases be deferred for about four months until the Green Paper on Transport has been debated in the Council.
• He admitted that this might mean a possible loss of 830 million in revenue. ’’But when compared to an estimated revenue of 85,679 million for the year 197^-75, this represents only about one half of a per cent.”
Summing up, Dr. Chung said: ”It is likely that mild economic recession might occur in some of Hong Kong’s markets and therefore demand for Hong Kong’s largely non-essential products could be eased.” But manufacturers and exporters are exerting greater efforts to develop new markets.
However, Hong Kong’s manufacturing industry was well-known for its resilience and he believed that this time was no exception. He therefore expected that exports will continue to expand by 20-30 per cent, though much of this increase will be due to price inflation.
-------0---------
/17.......
Wednesday, March 13, 1974
- 17 -
DC & I NEEDS UPGRADING SAYS MR. Q.W. LEE
The Hon. Lee Quo-wei today called for greater government involvement to assist in the further growth of Hong Kong’s economy.
To this end he suggested that the Department of Commerce and Industry, which has been playing a vital role in protecting our access to world markets and industrial output, be strengthened.
He said it was time to look into its staff resources, especnally at the senior level, to meet successfully the many tasks and challenges in the years ahead.
Mr. Lee believed that the post of the head of the Commerce and Industry Department should be upgraded to Secretary level, in line with his counterparts in other countries whose economy depended so heavily on external trade and industry like Hong Kong.
On the long term planning of social and economic development, Mr.
Lee said: ”Our problem should best be tackled by an outward looking expansionist economic policy supported by a much increased government effort and involvement.
’’This should be in concert with the best Drains available in the private sector, channelled into a system of consultation, advice and action.”
He recalled that for many years the Hon. Wilfred Wong had proposed some kind of a mechanism whereby economic planning could be studied and discussed for recommendation to the government.
In the present circumstances, he said, the government should at least take a new look at this matter.
/Turning to .......
Wednesday, March 135 197^
- 18 -
Turning to trade, Mr. Lee said: ”Gur internal and external circumstances dictate that we must intensify all our efforts to expand trade and industry.
"We are aware of the great work and the effectiveness of the Trade Development Council. And now is the time for the Council to seek to redouble its efforts, not only in our major markets, but al.so in opening up new markets."
Commenting on the Budget for 197^—75, Mr. Lee said he was opposed to the increase of the rate of direct tax. However, he agreed that fees and charges should be updated.
Referring to licences, he said: "No doubt some of their fees are antiquated. For example, there would seem to be a case for increasing banking licence fees to meet a larger portion of the cost of running the office of the Commissioner of Banking.
"But for some categories, the principle that they should be set in terms of what the market can bear should not be applied too arhitrnrily, otherwise it would lead to internally-generated inflation and cause social uneasiness."
On loan financing, he agreed that it was most important that it should only be used for direct self-liquidating projects.
"Perhaps government may also consider raising funds from the World Bank as well as in the international money market, besides from the Asian Development Bank, to establish Hong Kong’s eligibility and credit worthliness." he added.
Air. Lee «••••••
Wednesday, March 13j 197^
- 19 -
Mr. Lee was strongly against the idea of deferring some of the capital projects amounting to an estimated $1,960 million, the accumulated shortfall mentioned by the Financial Secretary if the projects were to be carried out.
”0ur problem cannot be solved simply by increasing direct or indirect taxation. Nor can it be solved by utilising our already reduced reserves because this would weaken our ability to deal with unforeseen contingencies. Mor can it be solved by deferring the implementation of our programmes, because this would defeat our objective of social development and meeting the needs of our people,” he said.
’’The long term solution is to ensure that our economy will continue to grow at a steadily increasing rate commensurate with our needs for social develojiment. ”
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/20........
Wednesday, March 1J, 197^
- 20 -
WHITE PAPER ON NARCOTICS TABLED
Views Of Unofficials On Drug Trade Will Be Sought
*********
The Action Committee Against Narcotics (ACAN) is conducting a comprehensive review of all present treatment programmes.
Results of the review of treatment programmes'will be used to advise the government about facilities required to tackle addiction decisively.
This was announced in the government’s White Paper ’*The Problem of Dangerous Drugs in Hong Kong” which was tabled at the Legislative Council today.
In tabling the White Paper at the Legislative Council the Secretary for Security, Mr. L.M. Davies, said it was proposed to introduce a motion in April ”to give members an opportunity to express their views about the illicit drug trade, the suppression of which was a cardinal importance to the well being of the people of Hong Kong.”
ACAN will be assisted by a Narcotics and Drugs Administration Division which is being set up in the Medical and Health Department. This division will provide it with the essential advice, be responsible for developing treatment plans for consideration, conduct research, and implement and supervise all programmes and projects approved by the government for the treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicts.
Tho White Paper sets out the present position and problems of the illicit drug trade in Hong Kong and the measures being taken to combat it. It details the progress made over the past 10 years and makes recommendations on future policies.
/The document ••••«..
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 21 -
The document also forecasts stiffer penalties for those trading in dangerous drugs. It says that although the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance is proving a satisfactory piece of legislation to deal with offences committed in connection with the illicit drug trade, there is a need to increase some of the penalties for engaging in it for profit. Therefore an amending Bill will be introduced into the Legislative Council »
The White Paper continues: "Many addicts need and should continue to receive treatment. But there is no doubt that deterrent sentences on offenders who profit, at whatever level, from the trade could materially help to overcome the drug problem; and such sentences are increasingly common elsewhere. The importance of the courts1 role must thus be recognised, and all proper steps taken to enable them to play it”.
There is also a warning that in the future Hong Kong could become more implicated in heroin export. It says: ’’Some overseas critics consider it already has, and have drawn attention to this. It is thus essential that effective action be taken to safeguard against this danger”.
It also warns of ’’the obvious risk that the abuse of factory-made drugs (amphetamines and barbiturates) may spread; particularly as the supply . » of opium products is reduced.
”Hong Kong should thus not shelter people from overseas who are convicted of trafficking in, or abuse of, any drugs. f* • • •
’’The law provides for their removal in appropriate cases — a provision which has been, and will continue to be, used where necessary.
/’’In addition •••••••
Wednesday, March 13, 197^
- 22 -
"In addition more education about the dangers of drugs will bo needed as a safeguard for all young people here.
"Proper control of factory-made drugs w:.ll also b of importance. They are at present dealt with in the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance. This is designed primarily to control pharmacists and to regulate the sale of poisons, not to deal with the problems connected with the abuse of these drugs* Thought is now being given to its revision. A Bill to provide specifically for factory-made drugs of abuse is envisaged."
In its conclusion the report states: "It is a major object of the government to stop the illicit trafficking of drugs into the through Hong Kong and to eradicate drug abuse from the community. The problem falls into four major parts. First is the illicit production of opium. This leads to the extensive clandestine traffic from the growing areas to places of embarkation, and then to Hong Konge Next follows internal distribution, manufacture, sale and consumption, creating the fourth and ultimate problem of many thousands of addicts.
"Over the first, and to a great extent the second, Hong Kong has no jurisdiction. The need is for international action and the closest possible co-operation between the governments concerned. In this Hong Kong stands ready to play its part. Smuggling operations within Hong Kong!s boundaries, internal traffic and manufacture, and the prevention, cure and after-care of addiction hero, are domestic matters, principally for local action. Those who engage in the business for profit will be pursued, while sufficiently large programmes of treatment for drug addicts will be developed to reduce substantjally, and eventually to eradicate, drug abuse from the community.
/"The four
Wednesday, March 15? 1974
- 23 -
”Ihe four parts are nevertheless interdependent. Success in interdiction will be shortlived, and might even have very serious social consequences, if not coupled with adequate facilities for treatment* Facilities for treatment will not be much used if cheap and abundant supplies of drugs arc available. Action is thus needed on all simultaneously, and on a continuing basis. The welfare of our community requires this, and the government is determined to achieve it."
- - - - 0---------
Wednesday, March 13, 1974
- 24 -
FERRY COMPANIES TO BE ASKED TO EXPAND SERVICES To Rural Areas
The Colonial Secretary, the Hon. Denys Roberts, today gave an assurance that the police will continue to do all they can to prevent boats from carrying passengers for hire unless they are licensed to do so.
However, the area involved is big and would require extensive patrols, he pointed out when replying to a question by the Hon. Mrs. Joyce Symons concerning the recent tragedy in Tolo Harbour in which three people died when a boat capsized.
Their deaths would be the subject of a Coroner’s enquiry or of criminal proceedings, he said, and he was therefore unable to comment further on the facts of the incident.
The Colonial Secretary said the government would do its best to persuade the larger ferry companies to expand their services to the New Territories to cope with the increase in holiday traffic to rural areas.
He added, however, that it would still be necessary to licence a sufficient number of other craft to carry passengers because some of the services were needed only intermittently and were unlikely to attract large operators.
But he emphasised: ”We must ensure that adequate standards of safety are maintained, particularly by limiting the number of passengers and by proscribing a minimum quantity of life saving equipment.’1
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Wednesday, March 13? 197^
- 25 -
RENEWAL OF BUS FRANCHISES
Plans For Govt. Representation On KMB And CMB Boards
*******
The Kowloon Motor Bus Company and the China Motor Bus Company have both been informed that their franchises, which are due to expire in February 1975? will not be renewed under the present terms.
Announcing this today, a government spokesman said that detailed negotiations will be held with the companies regarding the terms for new franchises which will be embodied in fresh legislation.
"These franchises will ensure that the government is in a position to influence the operations of the companies effectively by closer participation in their affairs/’he added.
’’Proposals are under consideration which will allow the government to obtain a portion of the equity and to nominate government officers to serve on the boards of the two companies.
"It is hoped that agreement can be reached soon so that plans for improvements to the companies’ services can proceed with all due speed.”
0 - -
Wednesday, March 15, 197^
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
inti*
Tho following prices were realised today (Wednesday) at sales under the Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation • Wholesale Market and tho Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at
Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Sunrlies and Wholesale Prices of Rice
Grado ■ ■» China Rice Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (g/cattyX^
Average
„ „ - old crop See Mew ncw crop Good 2.00
SeC.Jion - old crop now cron Po l!gai Good Good 1,94 1.65
Chu Cho
Thal Rice icxyHSioio Good 1.91
10-15# Brokens Good 1.89
A1 Super Extra Good 1.67
A1 Super Good . 1-52
Whole Glutinous •• —
• U.S. Rice Good 1.82
Australian Rioe Good 1.80
Pakistan Rice M • * . • “
Taiwan Rico - ,
/Supplies and •••••••
Wednesday, March 13, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Availability Wholesale Price
Species of Supply (8/catty)
High Low * Average,
Golden Thread Good 4.0 2.8 3.5
Big-Eyes Good 2.4 0.8 1.8
Squid Limited 6.0 2.5 4.5
Hair-Tails Normal 2.8 1.5 2.0
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.75 1.2 1.8
Croakers Good 2.2 1.3 1.8
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 3.4 2.0 3.0
Melon Coat Good 1.6 1.0 1.4
Breams Limited 4.8 3«5 4.0
Yellow Belly Good 1.4 0.6 O.85
Mackerels Normal 4.0 3.0 3.5
Rod Goat Fish Good 1.2 0.6 1.0
Fork-Tail Normal 1.4 1.1 1o2
Horse-Head Normal 5.5 3.0 4.0
Melon Seed Normal 3.2. 2.0 2.5
PorrfTcts Limited 9.0 8.0 8.5
Grroupas Normal 7.0 5.0 6.0
Yellow Croaker Good 6.2 3.7 4.5
/Supplies and
Wednesday, March 15, 197^
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of
type Locally Produced Vegetables Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (S/catty)
H1& Low Average
Flowering cabbage Scarce 2.0 1.0 1.5
White cabbage Normal 1.0 0.4 0.7
Chinese Lettuce Limited 1.0 ■; o.3 0.6
Chinese Kale Limited 1.5 0.6 1.0
Spring onion Good 0.6 0.2 0.4
Spinach Limited 1.5 0.5 1.0
Water cross Normal 0.9 0.25 0.6
Leaf mustard cabbage Limited 0.8 0.2 0.5
Tomato Limited 1.6 0.6 1.2
Supplies nnd Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live ’ weight) •
Pork Availability of Supply Good Wholesale Price ( 8/ picul)_ (Average) . 500
~----0-----
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Thursday, March 14, 1974
CONTENTS
Page No«
Government urged to take immediate action to curb spiralling
inflation • • • ................ ............................ 1
Man in the street should be protected from profiteering . • • • 5
Quality and performance of the civil service can be improved..................................................... 8
Vehicle tax proposals receive more criticism ................ 11
Fair Rents Tribunals may help reduce inflation ••••••••••••• 14
Compulsory registration for finance companies urged ........ 18
Recommendations in the McKinsey Report should be fully implemented • •.............................................. 21
Vacant premises to be exempt from property tax.............. 24
Mass Transit Railway Provisional Authority Bill 1974 passed . 25
Higher compensation payments for workers proposed ........... 26
Two new diseases to be added to the schedule of notifiable diseases ••••••••••••........................................ 29
Death of a senior government officer •...................... 31
Conversion of taxi meters to be stepped up .................. 32
Importance of public participation in community affiars stressed.................................................. 33
Housing Department offices to be centralised................• 34
Advantages of modern office equipment...................... ”35
Retirement of a senior Fisheries Officer..................... 37
*******
Daily guide to who*] ara”!© pxJ and supply bn/Ho food commodities
Release time; 9«0Q p.m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 1 -
PRESSURE FOR PRICE CONTROLS ON BASIC COMMODITIES HOTS UP
Unofficials Demand Action Now
Unofficial members of the Legislative Council today continued their campaign for urgent measures to curb spiralling inflation and again united in calling on the government to tackle the problem now.
Leading the anti-inflation drive at today*s resumed Budget debate was the Hon. Ann Tse-kai who emphasised that means must be devised to check and curb rising prices of essential commodities at retail level and that "the government should endeavour by visible action to see that supplies of essentials are assured at reasonably stabilized prices."
At the same time, Mr. Ann said, the government should also
**make up a list of essentials and take a piercing look to find out whether there are other internally induced inflationary factors that are working and if anything can be done io arrest them without prejudicing our basic policies.**
By ascribing inf]at.ion in Hong Kong all to outside factors, he said, the Financial Secretary had missed out the "skyrocketing of our land prices and consequential rent spiralling** during the fourth quarter of 1972 and first quarter of 1973*
Ho recalled that he had pointed out in his speech in the Council on March 15 last year that those were the locally induced inflationary factors.
"Its after-effects are still being felt these days, since under the circumstances there has not been much choice left to the average person, as landlords can always hold out for better terms while the average tenant does not move house like a bird,’* he said.
/Turning to
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 2 -
Turning to the problem now being faced by the manufacturers, Mr. Ann said the raw material stocks acquired at advantageous price levels were diminishing.
"To replenish stocks at the present unprecedented high level makes any sensible enterpreneur shiver, because some raw materials have already gone up by 150 per cent, some 200 per cent and some 300 per cent since '1972," he added.
”In the pricing of primary commodities or so to say their market habit, after a straight uptrend the next stage is often not a plateau. It could be an accelerated upward movement or turn to a continuous downtrend. Beth are horrible and daunting.”
Ho pointed out that for some staple items', at the present moment raw material prices were higher than manufacturers could allow for their raw material cost, or their lowest selling prices of the manufactured goods would be higher than overseas buyers were willing or ready to pay.
। • •
This is a serious problem for Hong Kong, said Mr. Ann, because the manufacturing industry is the largest employer and bread earner in the first degree.
'When inflation hurts manufacturers those of them nearest to the direct consumers feel the pinch first. People will buy things which they think still relatively cheap but when they start to resist rising prices, recession is in the making.”
On the approved housing plans, Mr. Ann said it must go ahead at • f • •
full steam despite all difficulties and in view of the slowdown of buildings in the private sector.
Air. Ann
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 3 -
Mr. Ann would not endorse any increase in rent in existing public housing estates whatever the reason, in 197^-75j which is such a ’’crucial year”, with the exception of newly built estates to be entered as from now on.
But he said that other building plans, except expansion of secondary and technical education, could be deferred if the year turned out not as promising as the Financial Secretary had predicted.
Referring to the plan of raising direct tax, Mr. Ann said this should not be envisaged, as it would ’’only aggravate an untenable situation".
He went on: "Now the government by changing land policy has attracted now and highly technological industries. The threat of highor direct taxation will only frighten away new industries and make new comers hesitate•”
Mr. ‘Ann was glad to see that the Financial Secretary had decided to look into the propriety of the existing rates of depreciation allowance on plant, machinery and equipment.
Pointing out that the last concession was made some six years ago, he said that the question should be looked at more often and the allowances be adjusted in line with the development of new industries and new technology.
He also criticised the Financial Secretary for threatening to increase water charges in 1975-76.
Such an increase, he said, would not only affect the basic cost of living but would impose an extra burden on industry especially after the recent rise in cost of fuel and electricity. It would particularly heavily penalise the textile finishing industry.
/In general,
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 4 -
In general, however, Mr. Ann described the Budget for 1974-75 as "realistic*"
He said the tone of the Financial Secretary in his speech was optimistic. But many of the grounds of his proposals were founded on past performances plus statistical extrapolation.
Mr* Ann wound up his speech with an optimistic note. "Hong Kong is an ioland of free economy in the ocean of controlled economies," he said.
"A grand strategy of our economic policies should be, without forgetting fundamentals and within permissible scope, to allow or tolerate what other countries in the region do not, and allow people to enjoy what is not possible elsewhere, such as a low taxation structure, less bureaucracy ___
for instance, a trip to Macau to gamble to their satisfaction."
-------0---------
Thursday, March 1^, 197^
- 5 -
GOVERNMENT MUST PROTECT MAN IN THE STREET From Profiteering, Says Mrs. Symons ********
The government has a duty io protect the ordinary citizen from being fleeced by unscrupulous profiteers, the Hon. Mrs. Joyce Symons, said today.
"While the government may not be able to bring in rigid price control of ordinary household commodities in daily use, there is the urgent need, I feel, to ensure that there is no profiteering on the sale of rice, cooking oil, flour and sugar, to mention only a few essential items,” she said during the resumed Budget Debate.
Mrs. Symons pointed out that members of the public have often been hoodwinked into paying more by profit-seeking shopkeepers, and suggested instant ’hot lines’ to City District Offices so that shoppers could report X concrete examples of flagrant profiteering.
"These reports," she suggested, "could perhaps be tabulated and checked v/hen the present inspectors from the Department of Commerce and Industry go round to collect figures which now are used in government statistics." Mrs. Symons also advocated enlisting the responsible co-operation of the man in the street in the campaign against inflation.
This could be done by co-ordinating them into mutual aid committees which were so well represented in the anti-litter and anti-violent crime campaigns.
/"After all,
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 6 -
’’After all, while not every one throws litter, and even fewer are criminals, we all have to eat, buy certain commodities of a humble household nature and we are all genuinely concerned this time,” she said,
’’Give us a chance to help, too, as Government makes every
attempt to curb prices.” r
The persuasive powers of the Government Information Services and the City District Offices should also be used, Mrs. Symons felt, to calm the fears of the common man and to dispel unfounded rumours about shortages, thus putting an end to hoarding.
In addition, she suggested that daily broadcasts could be made giving price ranges of some of the most important daily commodities,
’’The shop-keeper in defending his rising prices turns round and puts the blame squarely on Government at all times,” she noted.
Economic experts, she said, may argue rightly and wrongly about inflation but ’’all the average housewife knows is that prices are never stationary.”
She urged shoppers to be selective in their patronage of stores and stalls, for ’’free enterprise must coincide with free choice,” and the shoppers must learn that they are calling the tune.
Mrs. Symons concurred with the suggestion of the Financial Secretary that the government itself should set an example, and show that it is not extravagant in its use or misuse of manpower or physical resources.
She cited the recent case of the government practising economy in the use of electricity and fuel, and the response of the community at large, and concluded that, should the necessity arise, more could be done with the government taking the lead.
/In connection
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 7 -
In connection with Hong Kong’s reserves in London, Mrs# Symons pointed out that the total sum of S3,OCX) million in reserve amounted to only about half a year’s expenditure at the present rate.
She felt that the government should endeavour strenuously and continuously to dispel the mistaken idea that it is mean and squeezes as much as possible towards the reserves in London.
’’The situation is simply that as a community we will have to pay more and more for the ever-increasing scope and cost of our social services, not to mention other provisions like transport amenities.”
On the Financial Secretary’s tax proposals in the sphere of transport, Mrs. Symons agreed with her. unofficial colleagues that they should be delayed pending the publication of the Transport Green Paper.
The tax increases, she said, were ill-timed and she hoped that ’’many opportunities would be provided for frank discussion before changes in all types of vehicles licence charges are made.”
She felt it was a matter of principle that policy must precede taxation.
-------0---------
• • i
/8........
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 8 -
CIVIL SERVICE CAN BE IMPROVED
Faster Promotion Recommended
The Hon* P.G. Williams today spoke at length on improving the quality and performance of the public service which costs 43 per cent of recurrent expenditure.
Quality of the material employed must be the basis of the quality and performance of the service as a whole, he stressed during the resumed Budget debate.
Mr. Williams believed that the government, like busy managers, would often not face the fact at the end of a probation period that an employee was not up to standard.
He suggested that a pre-*engagement course for various grades be conducted to test the individual and find out if the newcomer was the right material as well as giving him some pre-training.
The cost of this non-productive period, he said, could quickly be recovered by better material entering the service.
Mr. Williams questioned the standard of confidential reporting on officers.
”Too often here there is a tendency to shirk from criticism if this must be brought to the notice of the individual concerned with results in the end both unfair to the person and most harmful to the service,11 he said.
/On promotion,
Thursday, Liar ch 14, 1974
- 9 -
On promotion, ho said: ’’Increasingly, it is the practice in business to bring on the bright quickly and this should be followed in the government service.”
He warned that if an increase in the retiring age was contemplated, accelerated promotion was a pre-requisite or it would end up with good people leaving and ineffective upper echelons.
Turning to committee meetings of senior government officials, Mr. Williams said: ”Many of these go on for too long a time. With proper preparation few committee meetings should last much longer than one hour.”
He added that it was not easy to set a value on people’s time, but tying down 10 people for more than three hours, as he had often seen happen, would be expensive.
lir. Williams suggested that a report should be made to the Colonial Secretary for any meeting which lasts more than 1^ hours.
”By this simple procedure some slow moving and inefficient areas in government might well be revealed,” he said.
Having said all this Mr. Williams acknowledged that by comparisons elsewhere Hong Kong had a good public service.
”But as it costs 43 per cent of our recurrent expenditure, we must sec this vast sura is v/ell spent,” he said.
On inflation, Mr. Williams shared the great concern of his unofficial colleagues on the problem.
He indicated that he remained worried at the threat of inflation generated internally.
/Regarding ........
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- iO -
Regarding transport, he criticised the proposals as ’’untimely" coming before the Green Paper is published and discussed.
While agreeing that road users must be expected to pay more, he was of the opinion that members of the Legislative Council should have the opportunity to discuss the economic and social effects in the context of the whole transport problem before action is taken.
Mr. Williams strongly challenged the proposal to abolish the monthly parking pass. He said he could visualise chaotic conditions during the evening rush hours when motorists went to collect their cars.
"A monthly pass set at a realistic figure will reduce such congestion,” he said.
Mr. 'Williams described the Budget as "prudent measures" to moot the challenge cf the future as best one could see it.
He agreed with the Hon. Lee Quo-wei that "we must ensure our economy grows at a steadily increasing rate to meet our future needs and social expectations."
•’Confidence is the motive force of our economy and this must be maintained at all cost," he stressed.
0---------
/11
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 11 -
MORE BRICKBATS FOR VEHICLE TAX PROPOSALS
Mr. James Wu Cal1s For Increase In Bank Licence Fees
«***«»»*
The Financial Secretary’s proposals to restructure vehicle licence fees and parking charges came under fire again today during the resumed Budget debate in the Legislative Council.
The attack came from the Hon. James Wu who described the proposals as ’’too hard and too soon”.
He was particularly irritated by the proposal to impose a fee on every endorsement permitting people to drive different classes of vehicle.
Mr. Wu said: ’’Obviously little thought is given to the fact that at the very most only two driving licence endorsements (for motor cycles and private cars) might not have been held by an occupational driver.
”l7hilst it is appropriate to charge what is to them a minimal registration fee for doctors, accountants and architects to practise their profession! it would be grossly unfair to levy an even larger fee (if he had enough, endorsements) for a driver to practise his trade for a living which is never done for craftsmen of other trades.”
Mr. Wu pointed out that managing the finance of a government was different from managing the same of a family. He quoted an authoritative economist as saying that ’’growing debt (public) holds little peril for a dynamically growing economy.”
/”The underlying
Thursday,'March 1^, 197^
- 12 -
”111© underlying truth,” Mr. Wu said, ”is that the real national product of a country is an ever-growing thing, by way of population growth and increased productivity through improved man-hour efficiency and new manufacturing or management techniques.”
"Thus even a prudent businessman or industrialist today would not hesitate to borrow (if he can) for a viable project at a reasonable interest that he can comfortably service,” he added.
Mr. Wu supported the proposal of his unofficial colleague the Hon. Lee Quo-wei to increase the license fees for banks. He said it was unselfish of Mr. Lee, being a banker, to have proposed the increase.
,fIt would seem that a substantial contribution from the banking sector towards public funds would be in order, if not in the Robin Hood spirit on the part of the Financial Secretary,” he added.
Mr. Wu also favoured another suggestion by Mr. Lee that increased expenditure be financed by increased revenue, rendered possible by a high rate of economic growth.
He said: ”It makes good economic sense, as indeed has been proven in the past by our community through industry, thrift and good business sense of our labour, management or entrepreneurs alike.”
Whilst there was no cause for a pessimistic view, he said ”we do need at this moment some pump-priming operations for our economy”.
/Mr. Wu
Thursday, March 1^, 1974
- 13 -
Mr* Wu referred to a recent proposal by the Secretary for the Environment to developers for joint development so that ’’government gets much needed flats for its employees and the developer gets the work and money”.
He believed that if this was extended to low cost housing, the objective of Hong Kong’s housing programme could be reached earlier and perhaps cheaper.
To this end, he suggested, low cost housing could be sold to the public and financed by increased capitalisation or borrowing of the Hong Kong Building and Loan Agency.
He stressed that people in urgent need were prepared to buy with their own means instead of renting with public subsidy.
-------0----------
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 14 -
FAIR RENTS TRIBUNALS MOOTED
To Help Reduce Inflation
******
Fair Rents Tribunals should be set up by the Rating and Valuation Department to resolve disputes on high rent increases on shops and office premises.
This was one of the suggestions made by the Hon. Hilton Cheong-Leen today to help curb the current inflationary spiral in Hong Kong.
He noted that with a lower rate of inflation derived from a more stable shop and office rents Hong Kong’s image as a good long and mediumterm investment centre would be even more enhanced.
In face of prevailing inflation, Mr. Cheong-Leen called on the government to enlist more public support to curb profiteering in rice at the wholesale and retail levels which is ”a key psychologi cnl factor in the inflationary spiral.”
He emphasized that the government must be openly seen to be doing everything in its power to dampen down internal inflation, eliminate profiteering in essential commodities, and dispelling the fear of not being able to cope with runaway prices.
In this context, Mr. Cheong-Leen hailed the meetings held recently between the Commerce and Industry Department and rice importers, wholesalers and retailers groups over the control of the price of rice. However, he felt that these constructive meetings should have taken place a long time ago.
/”Why it .......
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 15 -
"Why it should have taken only until new for the government to make the general public realize some decisive action is being taken to curb rice profiteering at the retail level,” he said, ”is a lesson which should be analysed and stored for future application bridging the communication gap.”
He urged the government to co-operate with the City District Office Area Committees, the Mutual Aid Committees, the Kaifong Associations and other organisations in appealing to rice retailers to maintain reasonable retail prices and to report to the government any blatant case of profiteering.
Commenting on the budgetary proposal on vehicle licence fees, Mr. Cheong-Leen regarded as ’’over-simplified and wrong” the approach the government adopted in restructuring the six platforms for private car licence fees into two platforms.
’’Die increases based on the two platform structure are not only steep, they are also unreasonable from the point of view of the general public,” he noted.
He hoped that the government would revert back to the six platform fee structure for private cars so that the burden of licence fee increases is more equitably distributed.
As regards the 100-percent increase in licence fee of public light buses, Mr. Cheong-Leen maintained that it should be replaced by some ’’fair and reasonable” proposals which will not impose hardship on the livelihood of their operators.
/Die proposal ••••••.
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 16 -
The proposal to increase off-street car parking charges was one of the joints to which he strongly objected. In place of the "exorbitant” charges, he suggested that the charges in public multi-storey car parks be set at $1*50 Per hour for the first 10 hours and at $2.50 for every hour thereafter. This would, he argued, be sufficient deterrent to drivers from parking for too long periods at any one time.
Mr. Cheong-Leen also urged the government to encourage the building of more public and privately-owned multi-storey car parks.
In addition, he asked the government to rethink the proposal of charging $50 to each endorsement on a licence which would jeopardise the livelihood of professional drivers and to adopt a simplified classification of vehicles*
Turning to public housing, Mr. Cheong-Leen reminded the government of the necessity to go full speed ahead in its plans to rebuild all the very old resettlement estates, now known as Group B estates, in a bid to improve the living standard and quality of life of the tenants.
He hoped that the government could explore all possibilities of outside long-term loans for Hong Kong’s specific major development projects, which would in turn release more funds to enable the Public Works Department to keep abreast with its development programmes in public housing and new towns.
Population growth was also a theme in Mr. Cheong-Leen1s speech. He drew the government’s attention to the increase of th'e local population which ’’has been putting a heavy strain on our social services.”
/On the Civil
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 17 -
On the Civil Service, he opted for the idea of awarding interim allowances to civil servants to cope with sharp inflationary spirals as and when the situation warranted.
’•However,” Mr. Cheong-Leen added, ’’after the recommendations of any committee which has been set up to review salaries have been accepted by Government, no back pay should be allowed and the revised salaries should immediately supersede the interim salaries.”
He greatly regretted the cut of S1 million in Social Welfare subventions and said this would set back progress on the five year plan. He urged Government to restore the cut.
Mr. Cheong-Leen also urged that the 36 assisted private schools which had applied should be granted subsidy Otherwise, he said, ’’these schools which are non-profit making may be forced to raise school fees due to increased cost.”
He observed that at a time when the government’s policy scorned to be to tighten the belt a little, all departments should keep their new manpower requirements to the very minimum and concentrate on maximum efficiency and productivity among existing staff.
--------0---------
/18
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 18 -
COMPULSORY REGISTRATION FOR FINANCE COMPANIES URGED
Need To Abolish Interest Tax On Foreign Currency Deposits
*0**444*
Al 1 f-i nance companies in Hong Kong should be required to register with the government, after which licences can be issued subject to minimum requirements being met as to capital and the observance of the minimum deposit concept, the Hon. Guy Sayer suggested today.
Speaking during the resumed Budget debate, Mr. Sayer said a first step towards controlling the operation of finance companies would be to establish a list of those concerns that do or wish to actively seek / deposits from the public, including corporate bodies.
Hong Kong, he went on, should have some idea of the extent of the activities of finance companies and the impact they have or might have on its financial structuring. At present the actual number of finance companies operating here is unknown as no definitive records are kept.
"One has.only to look to the United Kingdom to see the effects on a monetary system of the uncontrolled proliferation of finance companies and secondary banks," observed Mr. Sayer.
He was sceptical of the effectiveness of self-discipline as a means of regulating the activities of deposit taking finance companies. Likewise, he questioned the feasibility of leaving the finance companies to set their house in order without any governmental intervention.
He thought that while some sort of association might bo formed to maintain rules and standards, the government should take a positive load in the matter.
/As regards
Thursday, March 14, 197^
.. 19 -
As regards interest tax, Mr.Sayer was of the opinion that interest tax on foreign currency deposits should be abolished to make way for effective panticipation by licensed banks in Hong Kong.
He saw in this four distinct advantages for Hong Kong:-
* Hong Kong would be able to offer a service for which there is undoubtedly a demand; '
* Depositors would be protected as the funds would be deposited with institutions who are obliged to observe rules and standards laid down in Hong Kong’s banking ordinance;
♦ The foriegn currency deposits are largely term deposits — that is they are deposited for fixed periods of time — and consequently could and would be available to re-cycle into Hong Kong’s economy, and
♦ A valuable source of revenue would arise as there should be profit in the business which would be taxable.
” 1 would rather see the money,” Mr. Sayer remarked, ’’under the control of institutions here and providing resources and revenue for our community than being remitted out of Hong Kong where we can reap none of the benefits I have mentioned.”
Turning to the proposed tax increase and widening of the scope of taxation, he hoped that when reviewing these matters ”care will be taken not to drive away investors and industralists and those who are accustomed^ to using Hong Kong as their centre of operations” as they have a vital-*role to play in the development of Hong Kong’s economy.
/He thought
Thursday, March 14, 19?4
- 20 -
He thought that the collection of existing taxes within the present tax framework should be streamlined although he doubted very much the propriety of the present post-war devised tax system and its effective enforcement within the limited resources of the Inland Revenue Department.
Referring to the government’s overall policies, Mr. Sayer stressed that it had been right in the past and ’’its projections for the years ahead are well . tuned to the rather specialised circumstances of our existence.” ”The question whi-ch must exercise our minds in the future, if we are to ensure improved living standards and an orderly development of our economy, is the extent of control we need of government and how much we can expect,” he stressed.
He pointed out that there was now a better understanding and acceptance among the population of Hong Kong of the necessity for greater participation by the government in every facet of their daily lives.
’’Indeed, this trend has been growing for a number of years,” he observed.
To him, there is a greater willingness to put something back into the community and the government has done much to foster this spirit, a.
”At the same time,” he added, ”we must allow the enterprising and industrious spirit of our people to flourish and at all times to maintain public confidence in the future of Hong Kong.”
-------0---------;
/21 .......
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 21 -
. McKinsey recommendations must be fully implemented
Control Of Finance Companies Urged
********
The new planning processes for monitoring and control of departmental expenditure as recommended in the McKinsey Report should be fully implemented so that more stringent and effective control can be exercised within the Civil Service, the Hon. Li Eook-wo said today.
Speaking at the resumed Budget debate, he expressed grave concern over the huge amount of financial wastage in the government as indicated by the Director of Audit in his 1972/73 annual report.
Mr. Li cited a few items from the report which covered, .among others, huge sums of Miscellaneous Advances, outstanding arrears of revenue, overpayments of overtime allowance to government servants and rental paid on unoccupied premises.
,TIf all the above waste and mismanagement had not taken place," Mr. Li said, ‘‘the Financial Secretary might not have found it necessary to propose some of the tax increases."
In line with his plea for greater fiscal stringency within the civil service, he urged the government to build and own enough quarters and accommodations for its own use.
"If this policy is adopted, it may ultimately lead to elimination of the heavy expenditure on hotel charges, private tenancies and office rentals," Mr. Li said.
/In view
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 22 -
In view of the vast sums of rents amounting to 872.8 million which the government is expected to defray in the financial year 197V75 for quartering and office accommodation, he suggested that it would be a better investment in the long run for it to build and own properties, especially since only the government would have access to ’free1 land.
Turning to the operations of finance companies, he observed that while he thought their presence could contribute in enhancing Hong Kong as a major financial centre, he firmly believed that additional legislation besides the size of minimum deposits as envisaged in the Protection of Depositors Bill was necessary.
"I would envisage the deposit-taking finance companies playing a role complementary to other financial institutions and forming an integral part of our financial structure," Mr. Li said.
He felt that a full range of statutory regulations was not too complicated and difficult to enforce as it has worked well in other neighbouring countries.
However, in view of the time involved, Mr. Li advocated that — simple regu~l ar, ions be introduced through the Protection of Depositors Bill to control those finance companies which take deposits.
The new regulations should include compulsory registration, payment of an annual licence fee, a minimum paid-up capital, a minimum liquidity ratio, a minimum size of deposit which finance companies can accept and the filing of monthly returns.
He felt that these requirements were not troublesome, and neither "should they bo too much work for the government to police".
/On the •••••••
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 23 -
On the government’s subvention policy, he called for a revision with a view to applying the principle of Equal Pay for Equal Work to all.
All government-subvented organisations, he maintained, should be provided with sufficient funds to enable them to pay salary increases retrospectively to the same date as that chosen for government servants. The financial procedure should be so arranged as to enable adjustments in salary to be made at the same time as those applicable to the public service. ’’Anything less can only be regarded as discriminatory and unfair to the staff concerned,1’ Mr. Li stressed, adding that all employees of government-subvented organisations should be deemed subvented government servants as they ’’serve the community in exactly the same way as their civil service counterparts”.
Ho noted that voluntary organisations on discretionary grants are not provided with funds to assist them in granting to their own staff salary increases equivalent to those approved for comparable posts in the public service during the course of a financial year though such increases were taken into account when determining their subvention for the ensuing year only.
”Tho present position," Mr. Li warned, "can only lead to further erosion of morale of their existing staff which in turn may lead to a decline in the quality of service to the general public."
-------0---------
/24.......
Thursday, March 1^, 19?4
- 74 -
VACANT PREMISES TO BE EXEMPT EROM PROPERTY TAX
*******
Owners of vacant properties will once again be entitled to full refunds of property tax on such premises; under amending legislation introduced in the Legislative Council today
At present, they are only entitled to half refunds but the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill 1974 will restore full exemption of property tax on vacant premises as was the position before April 1 last year.
Moving the second reading of the bill, the Financial Secretary, the Hon. Philip Haddon-Cave, explained that when half rates were introduced under the Rating Ordinance, ”we also introduced half property tax coincidentally, without realising at that time that such a move was illogical.” He gave three reasons for reverting back to full exemption.
Owners of properties used for producing profits would be able to off-set their half property tax against profits, and most corporations would not be liable for the half property tax since they are exempted, he explained.
In addition, to presume income when there was by definition no source for it war. a departure from the principles underlying taxation in Hong Kong.
Another amendment introduced in the bill aims to relieve owners of pro-war rent restricted properties from paying increased property tax following a re-assessment of rateable value.
Previously, the Financial Secretary said, the restricted rent passing had in many cases been accepted as the basis of rateable value because of doubts as to its assessment for these premises.
/"These doubts.........
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 25 -
"Qhese doubts have now been removed by a court judgment to the effect that rateable values cannot be restricted to the levels of rents," he said. "So on re-assessment, rateable values may now exceed the restricted rent passing by a considerable amount. The resulting tax charges could then be quite inequitable.
"To prevent this happening it is proposed to freeze the property tax charges for such premises to that payable as at April 1, 1973, not withstanding any subsequent re-assessment," said Mr. Haddon-Cave.
Debate on the bill was adjourned.
-------0---------
M.T.R. BILL PASSED
******
The Mass Transit Railway Provisional Authority Bill 1974 completed its passage in the Legislative Council today and became law.
The bill provides for the establishment of a provisional authority for the Mass Transit Railway as an interim measure, pending the creation of a statutory corporation to bring the railway into operation.
Five other bills were introduced in Council. They were: The Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill, the Quarantine and Prevention of Diseases (Amendment) Bill, the Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) (Amendment) Rill3 the Employment (Amendment) Bill, and the Workmen’s Compensation (Amendment) Bill.
Debate on the second reading of these bills was adjourned.
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/26
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 26 -
HIGHER COMPENSATION PAYMENTS FOR WORKERS PROPOSED
*********
Two bills aimed at extending statutory protection to a greater number of Hong Kong employees and increasing workers1 compensation payments were introduced in Legislative Council today.
The bills are the Employment (Amendment) Bill 1974 and the Workmen’s Compensation (Amendment) Bill 1974.
They propose to increase from $1,500 to $2,000 the monthly income limit on non-manual employees covered by the Workmen’s Compensation Ordinance and the Employment Ordinance.
In moving the two bills, the Secretary for Social Services, • • • >
the Hon. Li Fook-kow said that this one-third increase in the wage ceiling would moan that a large number of non-manual workers whose wages had grown past the $1,500-a—month mark set in 1968 would again be brought under the protection of the two ordinances. (All manual workers tire covered, regardloss of income).
"Both wages and the cost of living have increased since 1968,” said Mr. Li. ’*The nominal wage index for industrial workers rose by 89 per cent from 154‘in September 1968 to 255 in September 1975.
There is no index reflecting wage movements for non-manual workers. But on the assumption that their wages have been adjusted to reflect the rise in the cost of living, it would seem reasonable to assume an increase equivalent to the change in the Consumer Price Index over the same period.
/"Taking the ••••••
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 27 -
’’Taking the moving annual average of the Consumer Price Index, which tends to iron out seasonal fluctuations,there has been an increase of 37*5 per cent in those five years. As there was an extremely hi^Ji increase for the quarter ending September 1973, which may have distorted the position somewhat, a slightly lower adjustment would seem reasonable* 1
Hence it is proposed to raise the wage ceiling by 33 per cent from $1,500 to $2,000 a month.
”In this way, entitlement would be restored under the ordinance to those non-manual workers whose present wages may resaonably bo considered as equivalent in value to a monthly wag., of up to $1,500 in 1968. Such workers should not be denied protection merely because of a cost of living adjustment in their wages.”
In moving the second reading the Workmen’s Compensation (Amendment) Sill 1974, Mr. H said that the present wage ceiling for the application of the Workmen’s Compensation Ordinance and the compensation rates paid under it had been established in 19&9* It was now proposed that compensation payment scales be increased by one third, in line with the proposed increase in the wago ceiling.
’’Dependents of a worker killed in the course of his employment are /
at present entitled to compensation, under Section 6 of the Ordinance, equal to ^>6 months wages which should not be less than $7,200 or more than $45^000. Clause J of the bill proposes to increase these to $9,600 and $60,000 respectively.
/’’Secondly,
I
*
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 28 -
’’Secondly, workers who suffer permanent incapacity are presently entitled to 48 months wages which should not be less than $9,600 or more tlian $60,000. Clause 4 of the bill axms to amend Section 7 of the Ordinance by raising these limits to $12,800 and $80,000.
”Finally, a workman who requires constant attention as a resul t of his injuries may receive additional compensation of up to $24,000 under Section 8 of the Ordinance and Clause 5 of the bill is intended to increase this to a maximum of $32,000.
”It is intended that the new rates of compensation ghould be applicable in respect of accidents occurring on or after July 1, 1974. The reason for this is to allow the insurance companies adequate time to make necessary.preparations and adjustments before the bill is brought into effect on July 1, 1974 by notice in the gazette,” Mr, Li said.
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/29........
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 29 -
TWO NEW NOTIFIABLE DISEASES
******
Dr. the Hon. Gerald Choa, Director of Medical and Health Services, told the Legislative Council today it was proposed to add two new diseases to the schedule of notifiable diseases.
Moving the second reading of the Quarantine and Prevention of Disease (Amendment) Bill 197^, he said the two diseases were viral hepatitis and food poisoning (excluding dysentery and enteric fever).
He explained that both diseases were at present only voluntarily notifiable in Hong Kong, but voluntary notifications were incomplete.
n0n public health grounds, it is necessary to have a more comprehensive picture of their incidence and to be able, as a result, to take appropriate preventive measures," he said.
Accordingly, it was necessary to make these two diseases statutorily notifiable so as to have a more complete picture concerning them.
Dr. Choa made it clear that the proposal had been discussed with the Hong Kong Medical Association and the Hong Kong Branch of the British Medical Association, and neither had objected. In addition, the terminology describing the diseases had their agreement.
One clause of the bill seeks to extend the recovery of any reasonable costs incurred by the government when implementing the bill’s provisions from the owners or agents of vessels, as at present, also to the ormers or agents of aircraft.
/Dr. Choa said
Thursday, March 14, 197^
- 30 -
Dr. Choa said if the bill became law, certain amendments would have to be made, as a consequence, to two sets of subsidiary legislation — • • the Prevention of the Spread of Infectious Diseases (Cancellations) Notifications 197^ and the Prevention of the Spread of Infectious Diseases (Amendment) Regulations 197^» r .
These amendments would relate to the new list of scheduled notifiable diseases, the definition of the term "infectious disease,” and the payment for a notification made to the doctor concerned without the need for a special application to that effect.
, ; *: t • . ■ ’• —
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Thursday, March 14, 197^
— 31 -
UNTIMELY DEATH OF MR. DAVID LAI
****** < »’ •
News was received from London this morning of the death of Mr. David Lai Kar-wah, a senior officer of the Hong Kong Government who was attending a course at the Royal College of Defence Studies.
Mr. Lai was admitted to a London hospital on Monday. He became seriously ill on Wednesday morning and he died the same night.
Mr. Denys Roberts, the Colonial Secretary, said that the news had been received with deep shock by his colleagues and many friends in the Government. "He was a fine and dedicated officer and his death is a great loss to Hong Kong," Mr. Roberts said.
The Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose has sent a personal message to the family and messages of condolences have also been sent by the Government to the widow and to Mr. Lai’s mother in Hong Kong.
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Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 52 -
CONVERSION OF TAXI METERS STEPPED UP
********
The checking and sealing of taxi meters at the new rate is to be stepped up by the Transport Department from next Monday (March 18). _A_?P°kesman for the department said today that the two centres *— at Whitfield Barracks in Kowloon and So Kong Po on Hong Kong Island — will be able to increase the number of daily appointment by between 50 and 100 per cent.
An additional machine for testing the taxi meters has already been installed at Whitfield Barracks and this will be used solely for • . < checking the converted meters.
It is expected that the two centres will be able to handle a total of about ?Q meters each day. This includes normal annual and bi-annual • • ! f •
inspections which are being carried out simultaneously.
The rocalibration of taxi meters began last Monday and up until this morning a total of 111 had been checked and sealed at the new rate of 32 for the first mile and 20 cents for each one-fifth of a mile.
The spokesman emphasised that taxi operators should not convert their meters until they have secured an appointment with the Transport Department for the meter to be checked and sealed.
Once the meter has been sealed by the department the taxi driver or operator must remove the conversion table which was issued as a temporary measure when the new fares were introduced.
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/53.........
0
Thursday, March 14, 197^*
- 33 -
IMPORTANCE OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS
The Director of Home Affairs, Mr, Eric Ho, today stressed the importance of active public participation in community affairs*
Speaking at the luncheon of the Lion Club of North Kowloon, he called for greater community involvement*
He pointed, out that it was through the community involvement scheme, area committees and mutual aid committees were formed in each city district to help fight violent crime and keep Hong Kong clean* Mr. Ho outlined the work of the Home Affairs Department which has recently undergone a significant reorganization following hha adoyVJon of the recommedatione in the McKinsey Report by the government.
One of the major duties was the promotion of understanding between the government and the public.
In addition to helping the residents solve their individual problems, Mr, Ho said, the staff of the department were particularly concerned with public reactions to government policies which would be reflected to higher authorities for consultation and consideration.
On the liaison work with voluntary bodies such as the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, the Po Leung Kuk and kaifong associations, he emphasised that this was of great importance for co-ordinating government and voluntary efforts in community services.
Mr. Ho welcomed suggestions from members of the public to help improve the services of his department to the community.
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/> .........
1
Thursday, March 14, 1974
HOUSING DEPARTMENT OFFICES TO BE CENTRALISED
The Housing Department is to centralise its three offices at /
Ma Tau Kok, Tsim Sha Tsui and San Po Kong under one roof to enable it to function more efficiently.
Plans have been finalised for the construction of a 21-storey head office building in the Ho Man Tin area of Kowloon.
It will be erected on a 4l,000-square-foot site to the north of Oi Man Estate and should be completed in two years.
Site formation work had Just be~n completed and work on caissons which is in hand should be finished in about two months.
Meanwhile, the Housing Department is inviting tenders for the construction of the super-structure and ancillary works.
The project will provide a total of 145,000 square feet of office accommodation, cf which about 10,000 square feet will be below podium level.
When completed in early 197$ ? the building will house the various divisions and sections of the Housing Department, which are at present located far away from each other.
A spokesman for the Housing Department said that the department will certainly function more efficiently with all its administration, operation, estate management, and construction branches under the same roof.
/35........
o - -
Thursday, March 14, 1974
- 35 -
ADVANTAGES OF MODERN OFFICE EQUIPMENT
*******
A steady improvement in productivity will continue to be a key factor in maintaining Hong Kong’s commercial and industrial success, the Director of Commerce and Industry, Mr. David Jordan, said today.
He was speaking at the City Hall to open the eighth business efficiency exhibition organised by the Hong Kong Office Equipment Association.
Mr. Jordan hoped that the exhibition would result in an improved awareness of the substantial technical and cost advantages that modern office equipment can offer and of what it can do to modernise operations.
Good office equipment, he pointed out, could contribute to increased efficiency in both the commercial and industrial sectors, which in Hong Kong were closely knit together.
’’Industrial productivity and business efficiency must go hand in hand in the essential task of maintaining our competitive position in world markets,” he said. ’’And it is essential because our social progress depends upon the continuance of our economic success.”
He stressed that an important element in improving office efficiency was the kind of equipment used.
A more comfortable and less .tiring typing desk and chair, a better typewriter, better copying facilities, a more versatile electric calculator — all these, though apparently simple additions, could contribute greatly to increased efficiency.
/’’At the •••••••
Thursday, March 14, 1974
nAt the other end of the scale, there is the computer, which has already revolutionised so many offices routines and decision-making processes,” he added.
Mr. Jordan said that the organisation and methods (”0 & M”) approach to systems is now widely accepted and used as a tool of management in maximising office efficiency.
It involves a total approach with a thorough examination of aims and objects and resources employed, including manpower, utilisation of space, capital and equipment, so as to devise practical methods of achieving maximum efficiency.
He believed that 0 & M had not received anything like the attention it deserved, and that it was an area which offered tremendous opportunities for reducing costs.
Mr. Jordan welcomed the attachment to the Hong Kong Productivity Centre of Mr. Hitoshi Umeda, an 0 & M expert from the International Labour Organisation.
”1 hope we can look forward to a closer relationship between office equipment suppliers and the Productivity Centre in improving the organisation and methods of working in offices, so as to get a better utilisation of new equipment in raising commercial efficiency,” he said.
’’Technical advances in the field of office equipment have been both rapid and wide-ranging. Just as it is essential to use office equipment wisely, it is equally important to keep track of the latest developments and cost-saving devices.”
Thursday, March -14, 1974
- 37 -
FISHERIES OFFICER RETIRING
***«»**»
Mr. Kwok Cheung, a senior Fisheries Officer of the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, is retiring after over 28 years in the public service.
During his career, he served in a number of important posts, including Senior Co-Operative Officer, in which capacity he was actively associated with the introduction and development of fishermen1s co-operative societies.
Mr• Kwok was transferred to the professional grade of Fisheries Officer in July 1968, and was promoted to Senior Fisheries Officer a year later.
On three occasions he undertook the duties of Assistant Director in charge of the Fisheries Branch.
To mark his retirement, Mr. E.H. Nichols, Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, will present Mr. Kwok with an electronic cal cul ator at a farewell party tomorrow (Friday) in the Oceania Restaurant.
Note to Editors: Reporters and photographers are invited
to coven the presentation which will take place at 7»3O p.m. tomorrow in the Oceania Restaurant, Ocean Terminal.
0 - -
Thursday, March 1*!-t 197^
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
I «•
The following prices wore realised today (Thursday) at sales under the Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and tho Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Marlcot at
Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Supplies, and Wholesale Prices of Rice Availability Wholesale Price
Grade of Supply ($/catty)
China Rice Average
„ .. old crop See Mow , Good 2.0
- new crop । j S.C.Jion - new crop i • Good 1.94
! Po Ilgai Good 1.6?
Chu Cho ■■ ••
Shad Rice - IwHhole •• ••
10-15# Brokens «•
A1 Super Extra Good 1.67
A1 Super Good . 1-52 •
Whole Glutinous - M
U.S. Rice - —— ‘ Good 1.82
Australian Rioo * ••
•**-•*• — Pakistan Pdce . Good 1.7
i Taiwan Rico » Good . •• • 1.6
t
/Supplies end •••••••
Thursday, March 14, 197^
Supplies and_ Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Species Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (S/catty) .
High Low • Average
Golden Diread • Good 3.60 2.40 5.00
Big-Eyes Normal 2.40 0.80 1.70
Squid Limited 6.00 5.00 4.00
Hair-Tails Good 2.20 1.00 1.80
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.60 1.20 1.70
Croakers Good 2.20 0.70 1.60
Conger-Pike-Eols Normal 2.90 2.00 2.60
Melon Coat Good 1.80 1.00 1.60
Breams • Limited 4.50 2.50 3.50
Yellow Belly Good 1.50 0.80 1.50
Mackerels Normal 3.60 5.00 5.20
Red Goat Fish Good 2.40 0.60 1.60
Fork-Tail Limited 1.80 0.90 1.20
Normal '4.50 5.20 4.00
Horse-Head Scarce 2.80 2.00 2.50
Melon Seed 3.00
Scarce 9.00 7.00
Poof rets Normal . 6.50 5.00 6.00
Gcroupas •>
' Yellow Croaker •
/Supplies and •/
Thursday, March 14, 197^
Supplies and Wholesale Pr ices of
Locally Produced Vegetables
fire Avail ability of Supply Wholesale Price (g/catty)
Higi Low — « line Aver_age
Flowering cabbage Limited 2.2 1.0 1.6
White cabbage Normal 1.0 0.4 0.7
Chinese Lettuce Limited 1.0 0.5 0.7
Chinese Kale Limited 1.6 0.6 1.0
Spring onion Good 0.6 0.2 0.4
Spinach . Limited 1.5 0.5 1.0
Hater oross Normal 1.0 0.3 0.6
Leaf Bustard cabbage Limited 0.8 0.2 0.5
Tomato limited < • • 1.6 0.6 1.2
Surrolics end tWTp».jle Prices of Pork (Live. weight) •
Availability ci Supply _ Wholesale Price ( £/ picul).
(Average)
Good
•300
Pork
0
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Friday, March 15i 1974
CONTENTS
Pa^e No,
Transport Advisory Committee revamped to advise on major transport policy ••••••••........................... 1
Public warned against impostors posing as PWD inspectors • J Visitors welcome at Government House garden this Sunday •• 4
Appointment of new Commissioner of Banking ......•••••••••• 5
Box junction to be introduced at junction of Pedder Street and Des Voeux Road Central ................................. 6
Refund of unused 15-cent receipt stamps .................... 7
Satisfactory response in first two weeks of anti-measles campaign................................................. 8
Five-day civic exhibition by secondary school students ... 9
Medical Green Paper to be studied in the light of public opinions prior to implementation .................... • • • 11
******
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: 8.15 p.m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Friday, March 15 > 1972*
TAO TO BE REORGANISED
The Transport Advisory Committee is to be reconstituted, so that its responsibilities may be more closely related to Hong Kong’s general environmental problems.
Under its new structure, the committee will be chaired by the Secretary for the Environment, Mr. James Robson, and will advise the Governor in Pouncil on broad issues of transport policy, with a view
to improving the movement of people and freight.
Other members of the committee will be:-
(Unofficial) (Official)
The Hon. G.R. Ross Director of Public Works
Mrs. Elsie Elliott Commissioner of Police
Mr. Stephen Wong Secretary for Economic Services
Mrs. Grace Ho Commissioner for Transport
Mr. Alan McFarlin District Commissioner, New Territories
Commenting on the re-organisation, Mr. Robson said it resulted from the many changes that had taken place - both in the scope of transport and in policies for dealing with it - since the original committee was set up in 1965•
Since then the severity and complexity of Hong Kong’s transport problems have-increased and the rising volume of traffic and the demand for improved transport services have made it necessary to devise solutions of an increasingly technical nature.
/”When the •••»••
Friday, March 15, 1974
- 2 -
"Vlhen the original committee was appointed we had no Transport Department as ne have today,” Mr. Robson added. ,fNor did we have a Secretary for the Environment responsible for the co-ordination of all transport natters”.
"The re-organisation of the Transport Advisory Committee is intended to take these changed circumstances into account, relieving the committoe of the more technical and detailed aspects of transport planning and leaving it free to consider matters of principle and general transport policy.”
"The old terms of reference required the committee to advise the Governor. Because more of its work will affect major policy decisions in its new role, it is considered more appropriate for the committee in future to advise the Governor in Council.”
"The groundwork for this new role has been very firmly laid by the outgoing committee, the sound counsel of which was invaluable in formulating our transport policy in the past. As their successors, we are very conscious of the debt we owe to its members. No city finds easy, ready made solutions to its transport problems. In Hong Kong these are worsened by the density of our urban development, which is the highest in the world.”
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Friday, March TJ, 197^
NAMING AGAINST Ihd'OSTGJS PUSIIIG AS P.d.D. INSxM:>JlWG 0 T> » <1 n Q
The Director of Public Works and the Commissioner of iolico today warned t’c public that several complaints have recently boon made about a person (or persons) who has been visiting several buildings where ■ o has been soliciting money from owners or occupants of alleged unauthorized structures, mostly on the main roofs of buildings.
This impostor (or impostors) has boon presenting himself as a ni'». .b. Inspector” and threatens to have such structures do..:oliz>cd by the government unless he is paid. It has been reported in so.o cases that he says his name is Mr. Wong (or Paul Wong or Wong Po-lor) and he shows on occasion: what purports to be a P.W.D. identity card authorizing hi:: to ins-oct rivate buildings.
The public is advised that there are absolutely no circurjstances whore money has to be paid to anyone in return for permiss?.on to retain a structure in a private building, whether unauthorized or not®
The public is also advised that the Public Worlds De*artr;or-v at present will not take statutory action to have any unauthorized structure altered □r demolished, unless it represents a real danger to the life o’.' t.ic occupants • for c::ar.Y le, is structurally unsafe or is a serious fire hazaru.
Anyone who suspects that a caller may be an impostox* should immediately telephone or report, preferably in person, to a police station, when steps will be taken immediately to determine if the visitor is ar. impostor and if so attempt to apprehend him.
/The public .........
Friday, March 15i 197^
The public is advised that anyone purporting to be an Inspector from P.W.D. should be asked to show his P.W.D. card, which states in both English and Chinese the name of the Inspector and that he is authorised to enter end inspect private building works. The card is signed either by or on behalf of the Director of Public Works and also carries a photograph of the Inspector.
A government spokesman added in an appeal to the public: ’’Without public support it is very difficult to stop this sort of swindle, so please report without delay any suspect persons to the nearest police station and please give your own name and address, which will be kept confidential as far as possible. Anonymous reports provide little help to the police who need ever;; assistance available if this impostor’s activities arc to bo stopped.”
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GARDENS OF GOVERNMENT HOUSE OPEN TO PUBLIC
******
As in past years, the gardens and grounds of Government Louse will bo own to members of the public to enable them to see the azaleas m full bloom.
The grounds will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p«m. this Sunday (March 17)•
Visitors are requested to enter the garden by the main gate, and leave by the east gate, so that all can enjoy the gardens without causing inconvenience to themselves and others.
Scouts and policemen will be present, and visitors are ashed to cooperate with them to avoid overcrowding.
Only the grounds will be opened to the public, and visitors should
refrain from entering the house
Friday, March 155, 1974
5 -
NEV/ BANKING COMMISSIONED APPOINTED
*«««*•
llr• Anthony Ockenden has been appointed Commissioner of Banicing. He will succeed Mr. James Paterson.
Mr. Paterson is returning to London at the end of this month after serving as Commissioner of Banking for nearly three years. Prior to that ho served as Exchange Controller.
Mr. Cckenden was seconded to the government from the Danie of England a year ago and has since been working in the Economic Branch of the Secretariat as Principal Assistant Economic Secretary with responsibilities for foreign exchange and monetary matters.
He is 46 and has served with the Bank of England in London since 19^1 with the exception of a three year period from 1964 when ho was seconded to Sierra Leone as the first General Manager of the central bank there.
The new Principal Assistant Economic Secretary will bo llr. J.I. Mutch who arrived in Hong Kong recently, also on secondment from the Bank of England.
Aged 46, Mr. Mutch has spent many years in the Economic Intelligence Department of the Bank of England. From 1968-1970 he was seconded to HM Treasury where he worked in the Overseas Finance Division.
iioto to Editors: Copies of Mr. Ockenden’s photograph arc boxed
for collection.
Friday, March 151 197^
- 6
ANOTHER BOX JUNCTION IN CENTRAL
A bo:: junction is to be introduced in Central District to improve the flow of traffic at the Redder Street-Des Voeux Road Central intersection, particularly during peak hours.
The marldng of the junction will be carried out over the weekend in preparation for the system to become operative on Monday (March 18).
Several other box junctions are already in operation and are easily identifiable by yellow criss-cross markings on the road surface and appropriate warning signs.
A Transport Department spokesman explained today that once the new box junction becomes operative it will be an offence for a motorist to drive into the narked area unless he can clear the entire junction.
If his exit from the junction is blocked, then the motorist must wait even if the green traffic signal is showing.
!r2he object is to prevent road junctions being blocked in all directions by vehicles which cannot get out of the intersection during l a green phase of the signals controlling traffic approaching the junction,” the spokosr.:an explained.
The box junction at the intersection of Redder Street and Des Voeux Road Central is needed because of the tendency, during peak hours, for motorists travelling down Redder Street to block the Des Voeux Road carriageway while waiting to cross Connaught Road Central.
0--------
/7........
Friday, March 1>, 1974
DEADLINE FOR REFUNDS GF UNUSED 15-CENT RKGEIPi’ STAil'G »*««««
Claims for cash refunds in respect of unused 15-cent receipt stamps should be made before the end of this month.
Announcing this today, e spokesman for the Post Office said that the cash refund arrangement will cease on March 30, after which date no further refunds will be made.
The refund resulted from amendments introduced last year to the Stamp Ordinance, which included the abolition of the 15 cents stomp duty receipts.
Claims in respect of unmarked stamps of face value not exceeding S>00 r.:ay be made at the Genera?. Post Of Tice, the Kowloon Central lost Office, or the Tsim Sha Tsui Post Office.
In cases where refunds exceed 3300, or where the stamps have been chopped or overprinted by the holder for security or identification purposes, c?.a?.r.iG should be addressed to the Accounts Division, Post Office headquarters, Fodder street, Hong Kong.
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/8........
Friday, March 15» 197^
- 8 -
ANTI-MEASLES CAMPAIGN
•»••***
A total of 4,111 children was inoculated against measles during the first two weelis of the 1974 anti-measles campaign which began on February 18.
Of these, 1,415 were inoculated on Hong Kong Island, 1,597 in Kowloon, and 1,299 in the New Territories.
A spokesman for the Medical and Health Department said today that the fir,lives compared favourably with last year’s two measles campaigns.
A total of 8,807 children was immunised during the first nine-week carrnign ending on June 2, and 5,023 inoculated during the second campaign in December.
The spokesman said that while the total showed a better response by parents to having their offspring inoculated, there was still "no room for complacency."
I lore children should be brought for free inoculation at the department’s maternal and child health centres throughout Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territories.
-----0------
/9.......
1
Friday, March 15, 1974
- 9 -
CIVIC EXHIBITION BY 12 SECONDARY SCHOOLS
School Forum On "Knowing Your Government”
Members of the public will have an opportunity to goo models, charts, drawings, illustrations and sketches on various public affairs topics by pupils of 12 secondary schools at a five-day exhibition which opens on Monday.
This exhibition will be highlighted on the last day, March 22, by a school forum on ’’Knowing Your Government”.
F.oth the exhibition and forum are being organised by the Economic and Public Affairs Section of the Edcuation Department in collaboration with the City District Office, Wong Tai Sin.
The exhibition, which is part of the ’’Second Civic Week", will be held in the covered playground of Ho Lap College, 15, Tseuk Lui: Street, San Po Kong, Kowloon, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. On the first day the public will bo admitted from 11.45 a.m.
The "First Civic Week" was held at Cognitio College in San Po Kong last year.
Before the opening of this year’s exhibition, the entries will be fudged on Monday morning by Mr. Alex Wu, Urban Councillor, and Mrs. Louise Ilok, Principal Curriculum Planning Officer (Secondary), of the Education Department.
The exhibits cover a number of topics including the fuel crisis in Hong Kong, transport problems, social services and housing.
/The school .......
Friday, March 15, 197^
- 10 -
The school forum at Ho Lap College on March 22 will bo opened by Ilr. Hilton Cheong-Leen, Unofficial Member of Legislative Council, Er. Ho Hga-r.ing, Deputy Director of Education (Professional), Mr. Arthur Drown, Assistant Director of Education (Chief Inspector of Schools), and Mr. Ian Strachan, City District Officer, Wong Tai Sin.
One of the aims of the forum is to enable pupils to understand how public opinion can assist the Government in policy-making.
During the forum, the Deputy Director of Home Affiars, ir. Augustine Chui, will speak on ’’Public Opinion”, the Dean of Students and Lecturer in Public Administration of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Mr. Andrew ’.7.F. Wong, will deal with the ’’Structure of Government in Hong Kong," the Principal Gil Supplies Officer, Mr. Dominic S.W. Wong on the "Energy Crisis” and the City District Officer, Kowloon City, Mr. Anthony Neoh, on the ’’Community Involvement Scheme."
note to Editors: You are invited to send representatives at
9 a.m. on Monday to cover the opening and judging of the Second Civic Week’s Project Exhibition and the School Forum on ’’Knowing Your Government” on March 22 at 10.30 a.m.
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Friday, March 15, 1974
PUBLIC COMMENT GN MEDICAL GREEN PAPER
Will Bo Carefully Studied
Pull consideration will be given to the public’s views on the report of the Medical Development Advisory Committee before government policy is finally determined later this year and set out in a White Paper.
This assurance was given today by the Colonial Secretary, Mr. Denys Roberts, when he officially opened the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals* Centenary Bloc?, in ’Western District, which marks the Group’s 100th anniversary.
As was hoped, the green paper on the report provoked widespread public comment and reaction, Mr. Roberts noted. "Indeed, it is a sign of the health:'- development of our society that it has aroused so much interest and been so keenly debated."
lie emphasised that the government is not complacent about the standard of medicine in Hong Kong, and although standards are good and compare favourably with most countries, "we are determined tu improve it."
The government, he added, accepted that i - i-esponsibility,ar representative of the people as a whole, "is to care for the destitute, the old and the infirm and to ensure that everyone is adequately fed, housed and cared for when ill."
Ho was confident that Hong Kong would continue to provide medical facilities which compare well with other countries and are the envy of many* The Colonial Secretary noted, however, that without the devoted efforts of charitable bodies, such as the Tung Wah Group, the medical facilities available in Hong Kong would be completely inadequate.
/He praised •••••••
Frida;/, March 15, 1974
- 12 -
He praised the record of the Tung Wah Group as a fine example of the way in which more affluent citizens of Hong Kong have always been willin'; to give generously of their time and money for the betterment of the loss fortunate.
Thanks to buildings like the Centenary Block, "nobody need lack for nodical care of a high standard by reason of his poverty," he said.
j.ho S7.4 million Centenary Block will provide 424 beds, as well as an out-patients department, a casualty department, an X-ray department, operating theatres and nurses* quarters.
It is a joint venture, with half the er,st being met from a capital subvention by the government and the other half being equally shared by the rio.yal Hong Kong Jockey Club and the Tung V/ah Grouo.
Construction is due for completion before the end of this month.
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Friday, March 15» 197^
1 • .
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guido To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies «c>< ee*
The following 1 Jco5 wore realised today (Friaoy) nt ea3.es urdor tho Rice Control £'’ r. -. and at the Vegetable Marketing Orgr.nisatiGR Wholesale Market and the F5t;h Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha V/an, Kowloon:
Supplics and VAiolgsalc Prices of.Rico
Grado »—• ■»■ . *4 China Rico Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (B/catty)__.
Average
„ tr - old crop Soo Mow * •* new crop •» ••
S»C.Jion - old crop Good 1.^
Po Ilgai -
Chu Cho - •w
.Thai Rice 100^”vSoTe —
10-15# Brokens Good 1.89
( A1 Super Extra - —
A1 Super Good 1.52 •
Whole Glutinous — «■
U.S. Rico Good 1.32
Australian Rioo Good 1.80
Pakistan Rice i •
Taiwan Rice Good , 1.60
t
/Supplies and
Friday, March 1?, 1974
Suj5plieB and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Availability Wholesale Price
of Supply (fl/catty)__
.Species
• ni& Low • Average
Golden Viread Good 4.5 2.5 5.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.6 0.7 1.8
Squid Limited 5.8 5.0 4.5
Hair-Tails Normal 2.8 1.2 1.8
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.9 1.2 2.0
Croakers Limited 2.3 0.7 1.5
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 2.8 1.9 2.6
Melon Coat Good 2.1 1.1 1.8
Breams Normal 4.8 5.0 4.0
Yellow Belly Good 2.2 0.8 1.5
Mackerels Normal 3.8 5.0 3.5
Red Goat Fish Good 1.5 0.7 1.2
Fork-Tail Limited 1.4 1.0 1.1
Horse-Head Normal 6.2 5.5 4.5
Melon Seed Limited 2.4 . 1.8 2.2
Poof rets Scarce 9.0 7.0 8.0
Grroupas Normal 6.5 5.0 6.0
Yellow Croaker • — ■> —
c
/Supplies and .?
Friday, Karch 159 197^
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of
Locally Produced Vegetables
SffiO Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (fl/catty)
High Low Average
Flowering cabbage Limited 2.4 1.0 1.6
White cabbage Limited 1.0 0.5 0.7
Chinese Lottuoe Limited 1.0 0.3 0.6
Chinese Kale Limited 1.6 0.6 1.2
Spring onion Good 0.6 0.2 0.4
Spinaoh Limited 1.4 0.5 1.0
Water cross Normal 1.0 0.3 0.7
Loaf mustard cabbage Limited 0.8 0.3 0.5
Tomato Limited 1.6 0.6 1.2
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight)
Availability pf^upply____
Wholesale Price ( 8/ picul) _
(Average)
Pork
Good
• 300
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Saturday, March l6t 1974
CONTENTS
£agp,
Appeal for co-operation to reduce accidents on construction sites ..................................................... 4
Incidence of measles continues to increase ...........,, 2
Refuse dump at Shuen Wan to be turned into a recreational area.............................9...............•••••»•>*>♦ J
February’s weather report by the Royal Observatory <•••*••• 4
Large crowd expected to visit the gardens of Government House tomorrow............................................... ■
.....................•••••••••at f
Interruption of water supply in Wan Chai ............... • 5
Release time: 2eJ0 P*n.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Saturday, March 16, 1974
- 1 -
ACCIDENTS ON CONSTRUCTION SITES
Four Killed And Over 270 Injured Last Month
******
Four workers were killed and 274 injured last month in accidents on construction sites, according to figures released by the Labour Department today.
The victims in the four fatal cases were all killed as the result of falls* Another 46 workers were injured in similar accidents.
The Industrial Safety Training Officer of the Labour Department, Mr, Nick Carter said today: ’’This type of accident is a persisting problem in this industry. During 1973» 10 construction workers died and 578 were injured as a result of such falls.” t
’’These accidents,” he added, ’’are mainly caused by bad housekeeping, unsafe means of access, unsafe work platforms and workers taking short cuts.”
’’Proper means of access and safe working platforms are essential. Makeshift arrangements should be prohibited. Trenches and excavations should be fenced, and where -it is necessary for workers to cross, proper access should be provided*”
Mr. Carter stressed that the main way of preventing this typo of accident lay in maintaining high standards of housekeeping at all times, ’’This does not mean the clearing and tidying of a site occasionally,” he said. ”It moans a continuous process during the whole building operation. Good housekeeping not only helps prevent accidents, it also increases efficiency
He appealed to management, supervisors and workers to work as a team with the common goal of reducing accidents on construction sites,
/2........
If
- - 0 -
Saturday, March 16, 1974
- 2 -
HEALTH REPORT FOR JANUARY
Incidence Of Measles Continues To Increase
*******
Health returns for January issued today by the Medical and Health Department show that 11 children died from measles — the highest number of deaths from the disease recorded for any single month since June, 1967*
Notifications of measles during the month rose to 3&7i compared with 191 in December last year and 129 in November.
Commenting on these figures, a spokesman said they emphasised the need for parents of susceptible children between six months and five years to have them immunised.
"Free vaccine is available throughout the year at all maternal and child health centres,” he stressed.
Of the 103 other deaths recorded during January, 99 were caused by tuberculosis, two by tetanus, one by typhoid, and one by bacillary dysentery.
There were 18 notifications of bacillary dysentery, a drop from the 30 cases reported in December. But notifications of chickenpox rose from 13 in the preceding month to 97* There were no notifications either of diphtheria or poliomyelitis.
The incidence of other communicable diseases showed no appreciable variation.
During the month, Hong Kong remained free from cholera and other quarantinable diseases.
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Saturday, March 16, 1974
- 3 -
REFUSE DUMP TO BE TURNED INTO RECREATIONAL AREA
Some six hectares of land for recreational use will be formed, partially by-reclamation, at Shuen Wan, Tai Po, on completion of controlled tipping of refuse in that area in 1976.
Tenders for the controlled tipping of refuse at Shuen Wan are being invited.
The work also consists of the construction of all necessary access, drainage and protective works required for the systematic disposal of refuse by sanitary and inoffensive methods.
Controlled tipping consists essentially of the spreading of refuse in layers, covering each layer with inert soft earth material as tipping proceeds and scaling off all working faces at the end of each day*s work in order to obviate noxious smells, control vermin and to eliminate health and fire hazards.
A spokesman for the Public Works Department said: "Covering material will be obtained from adjacent borrow areas which will be excavated to produce about one hectare of level platforms for future development use.”
Work is expected to begin in May and will take about 12 months to complete.
The project has been designed by the Development and Airport Division of the Civil Engineering Office, Public Works Department which will also supervise the construction.
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A.........
Saturday, March 16, 1974
FEBRUARY’S WEATHER
Cooler, Sunnier And Drier Than Usual
******
The weather last month was cooler, sunnier and drier than usual* It was the fifth successive month with rainfall below average. Although the mean temperature for the month was only 0.9 degree Celsius below normal, two very cold spells were experienced in the Colony during the month and low temperature warnings were issued from February 7 to 10 and from February 25 to 27.
Early on February 26, the air temperature at the Royal Observatory fell to 4.2 degrees Celsius, the lowest in the month.
In the same morning, the minimum temperatures recorded at Tai Mo Shan and Tate’s Cairn were -6.5 degrees Celsius and -2.2 degrees Celsius respectively. At Tai Mo Shan, frost was reported on February 25 and some ice formation was also observed early on February 27.
The total sunshine during February amounted to 128*1 hours, which was 27*9 hours above normal.
Noto to Editors: A full report of last month’s weather prepared
by the Royal Observatory will be distributed separately in the press boxes this afternoon.
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/5.......
Saturday, March l6t 197^
- 5 -
LARGE CROWD EXPECTED TO VISIT G.H. GARDENS TOMORROW
♦•♦***♦
Improved arrangements have been made this year to ensure that more residents will have an opportunity of seeing the beautiful flowers in the gardens of Government House.
Thousands of people are expected to visit the gardens which vH 11 be open to the public from 10 a.m* to 5 p»m. tomorrow (Sunday).
The Governor, Sir Murray-MacLchose said he was very happy that the people of Hong Kong could again have the opportunity of appreciating the beautiful flowers which were a great credit to the Government House gardeners
Because the number of visitors this year is expected to be even larger than previous years, there will be no band in attendance so that there will be a freer flow of people in the gardens.
It has also been necessary to erect temporary barriers around sone of the flower beds to protect them from the increasingly large crowds which visit the gardens each year.
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WATER INTERRUPTION
Water supply to a number of premises in Wanchai will be interrupted for five hours, starting from 1 a.m. on Tuesday (March 19)• The temporary stoppage is to enable a leakage test to be carried out in the area.
The area affected is bounded by Canal Road East, Hennessy Road, Heard Street, north side of Wanchai Road, Tin Lok Lane, Morrison THU. Road and Leighton Road.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Monday t March l8t #974
CONTENTS
Page NOj
Appointments of District Officers f or-Tuen Mun and Sha Tin announced ..............................................<
Education expert from the United Kingdom completes assignment..................................................J
Lady MacLehose to visit JCowloon-welfare agencies-^ 4
Interruption of water supply in Tsim Sha Tsui ••••••>«•> •
New City Divisional Police Station to go up on Centraj Reclamation ••••••«••••.................................. 6
January issue of monthly digest of statistics on sale *
Student wins logo design competition.......................{
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time; 7 >00 p«my
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Monday, March 18, 197^
- 1 -
DISTRICT OFFICERS APPOINTED For Tuen Mun And Sha Tin
The appointments of District Officers for Tuen Mun and Sha Tin have been announced.
They are Mr. David Lan Hong-tsung, District Officer, Tuen Mun, and Mr. Micheal Suen Ming-yeung, District Officer, Sha Tin.
Mr. Lan, who is at present the Assistant Director (New Territories) of the Urban Services Department, will take up his new post on April 1, while Mr. Suen, now the Secretary, Housing Authority, will assume duty on Monday (March 25). • ......
Although the two District Officers have not yet taken up .their new duties, the two District Offices are already in operation. The Tuen Mun District Office is temporarily situated in the Yuen Long District Office, and the Sha Tin District Office in Tai Po.
New accommodations are expected to be ready at the end of the year.
The creation of the additional posts and the transfer of seme existing posts were approved by the Finance Committee late last year to enable the two new District Offices to be set up at Tuen Mun and Sha Tin.
The expansion of the New Territories Administration is a result of the ever-increasing demands made on the department to meet the needs of an expanding population and increasing land development.
Major developments with which the department is involved include the Lek Yuen San Tsuen Housing Estate at Sha Tin, the Sha Tin race course, the High Island Water Scheme and the desalting plant in Tuen Mun.
/Meanwhile,
Monday, March 18, 197^
- 2 -
Meanwhile, the development of new towns at Tuen Mun and Sha
Tin continues* : • • ♦
For the Tuen Mun project, 100 acres of land have been earmarked for public housing, and another 100 for private development* Industry wi11 take up another 50 acres.
For the Sha Tin project, about 1,075 acres will have to bo acquired. Public housing will take up about 350 acres, while another 85 will be earmarked for private residential and commercial development. Another ^3 acres will be used for industrial purposes,.
Note to Editors: Copies of photographs of Mr. Lan and
Mr. Suen will be distributed separately in the G.I.S. press boxes this evening.
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Z5........
Monday, March 18, 1974
- 3 -
CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT ADVISER COMPLETES ASSIGNMENT x. ' r
Mr. Morgan Owen, an adviser on curriculum development, will leave Hong Kong on Friday evening after spending eight weeks here to advise on all aspects of curriculum development and review plans already drawn up by the Education Department in this field.
During his stay Mr. Owen visited primary and secondary schools
including those taking part in new curriculum projects. He also visited the three colleges of education, the Morrison Hill Technical Institute and the two universities.
In addition, Mr. Owen had talks with several organisations having an interest in curriculum development.
Mr. Owen will be submitting a report to the Director of
Education on the lines of action which he feels will be beneficial to education in Hong Kong.
Mr. Owen, a former H.M. Inspector from the United Kingdom, was recommended to the Education Department by the Centre for Education Development Overseas in London, t He has served as curriculum adviser in Jordan and Ghana.
Note to Editors: You are invited to send representatives to
the Education Departments Conference Room, Lee Gardens, 3rd floor, Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong at 3 p.m. tomorrow (Tuesday) when Mr. Owen will be pleased to answer questions from the mass media.
A....
-----0------
Monday, March 18, 19?4
- 4 -
LADY MACLEHOSE TO VISIT KOWLOON WELFARE AGENCIES
*******
Lady MacLehose will visit three welfare agencies in Kowloon tomorrow morning (Tuesday) in her capacity as President of the Community Chest of Hong Kong.
She will be accompanied by Miss Susan Hume, Social Secretary of Government House, and Mr. Colin Morrison, Executive Director of the Chest.
During her tour of St. Thomas’ Day Nursery, Un Chau Street Day Care Centre and St. Joseph the Worker Clinic, Lady MacLehose will seo for herself the daily work of the welfare agencies.
* 5
St. Thomas’ Day Nursery located at 45 Berwick Street, Shar.ishuipo, provides a feeding programme and medical care for children suffering from malnutrition.
The nursery accommodates some 60 children who are given two balanced meals a day as well as milk drinks. A doctor pays weekly visits to the nursery to keep an eye on the progress of the children under care.
The Un Chau Street Day Care Centre, situated at the Un Chau Street Estate, is one of five day care centres run by the International Rescue Committee. The centres provide health and recreational service to children of working mothers, and help to prepare them for school.
,;r r •••••*••
Monday, March 18, 197^
- 5 -
St. Joseph the Worker Clinic, organised by the Catholic Women's League, aims to provide medical assistance to needy families. It is located on the first floor of 408 Shanghai Street.
Note to Editors: You are invited to send a reporter and . ,v
photographer to cover the visits. Transport * * • • -will be provided. Those wishing to cover the visits are requested to assemble at the Kowloon Sub-pool behind the Tsim Sha Tsui Post Office not later than 9*15 a.m. on Tuesday (March 19)* "» - . . . Miss Brigitta Wong, Administrative Assistant to the Chest, will be on hand to assist Press representatives. # ‘
• ~ - C _ _ o-------- * ■-
WATER CUT
******
Water supply to a number of premises in Tsim Sha Tsui will be interrupted for five hours, starting from 1 a.m. on Wednesday (March 20).
The temporary stoppage is to enable a leakage test to be carried out in that area.
The affected area is bounded by Nathan Road, Peking Road, Canton
Road and Salisbury Road.
Monday, March 18, 1974
- 6 -
CLOSURE OF OPEN-AIR MEE
9IN3II
CAR PARK ON CENTRAL RECLAMATION
The open-air metered car park on the Central Reclamation near the Vehicular Ferry Pier will be closed to parking from 8 a.m. on Wednesday (March 20). '
x The-closure is to enable construction work to be carried cut on the new City Divisional Police Station. . 1
The new police station is of a modified standard design similar to the North Point Divisional Headquarters and Police Station.
... It will comprise one multi-storey block, two single-storey blocks and a compound < . _, --------....
. The multi—storey blocky ^8 floors,, is to be built on a si to > of.' 4
about 27,000 square feet. It will house the normal police operational and administrative offices, barrack accommodation, recreational facilities and married quarters for inspectors.
The low blocks are planned to accommodate, among other things, dog kennels, stores, vehicle parking and servicing bays.
Piling work will begin next month. This will be followed by construction work which is expected to be completed by the middle of 197&*
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Monday, March 1o, 197^
- 7 -
JANUARY ISSUE OF MONTHLY DIGEST OF STATISTICS
******
The Hong Kong Monthly Digest of Statistics issued today contains a special review which discusses the ratio-to-moving average method of making seasonal adjustment to the General Consumer Price Index.
It is one in a series of reviews on special subjects of interest prepared for public pursuance by the Census and Statistics Department*
Introducing the review article, a spokesman for the department said: "As the General Consumer Price Index is influenced by seasonal factors, a direct comparison of the index for any one month with that lor any other month can give a misleading impression of the way in which prices tended to move over the period concerned.
"For this reason, it is advisable to adjust the General Consumer Price Index for seasonality. The ratio-to-moving average method is one of the most widely used in measuring seasonal variation."
The Monthly Digest of Statistics is available from the Government Publications Centre, Star Ferry Concourse, Hong Kong, at S5 per copy.
- - 0------------
/8........
Monday, March 18, 197^
- 8 -
LOGO DESIGN COMPETITION
********
A 17-yeaJ>-old student, Leung Yuk-fu, from the Chiu Sheung Middle School in Pokfulam, has won the top prize in a logo competition organized by the Western District Community Centre of the Social Welfare Department.
Entries from nine other students and a clerk were also chosen for consolation prizes. The competition, held earlier this month, v/as opened to all residents living in Central, Western, and Aberdeen Districts Mrs. Anna Mak, Warden of the centre, said that a total of 2&0 entries had been received and the judges had a difficult time choosing the winners because many of the entries were very well designed.
She explained that the purpose of the competition was to produce a logo or symbol which the Community Centre could use to identify itself in its daily contacts with residents in the area.
”We will use the logo in our handouts, posters, banners, and anything originating from the centre and hope that by so doing, a feeling of belonging will be generated among our members,” she said.
The Western District Community Centre was formally known as the Tsan Yule Social Centre and will be celebrating its Anniversary in May. Winners of this competition will receive their prizes at a ceremony planned to mark the occasion. The winner will receive a trophy and a book coupon while the other 10 will receive a book coupon each. All entrants will also be given souvenirs.
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J c*-f Monday, March 18, 1974
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
The following prices were realised today (Monday) sales under the Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at I
Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon: !
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Rice
M» Grade China Rice Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (S/catty)
Average •
„ old crop See Mow ‘ - new crop Good 2.0
S.C.Jion - new crop Good 1.9^
Po Ilgai Good 1.6?
Chu Cho • r
Thai Rice lO^ri'i'iole Good 1.9
lO-15/o Brokens Good 1.89
A1 Super Extra - -
A1 Super Good 1.52
Whole Glutinous - ••
jJ.S. Rice Good 1.8a
.Australian Rioe - ••
Pakistan Rice S Taiwan Rice p — •
c /Supplies and ••
Monday, Ik ?<:*. ifi, If/^l
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Sppcies Availability of Supply I'j- ’.ol oca In Pci co (fl/catty)
nw Lnw • Avora.go
Golden Thread Good rv0 ' r : . 4.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.8 0.7 2.0
Squid Limited 5.5 5.0 4.5
Hair-Tails Good 2.7 1.0 1o7
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.8 1.2 1.8
Croakers Good 2.0 0.9 1.3
Conger-Pike-Eols Normal 2.7 2.0 2ob
Melon Coat Goo ■ 2.8 1.5 1.8
Breams Limited 4.5 5.0 5®6
Yellow Bolly Good 1 .8 0.6 1o5
Mackerels Good 4.5 3 0 5.8
Red Goat Fish Good 2.2 0.7 2.0
Fork-Tail Normal 1.4 0.8 1.0
Horse-Hoad Normal 5.5 3.2 4.2
Melon Sood Limited 2.5. 1.6 2.2
Ponrfrcts Scarce 10.0 7.5 9.0
Garoupas Normal 6.3 5.0 5<>5
Yellow Croaker — — ••• r-w
/Supplies and a<4o0ooo
iiondny, Lnrch 1.,, V)?/!
Si wiles and Wholesale Pricon of
■ - -
T pyrzlnrnd Ve??otnb1r. •
Availability Wholesale Price
T’.mo •-# of Sf.'pT 7 n f/eatty) • ■<.»»• . • • • X. »- J*
lq n 5! ;h /.or; Avera go
Flowering cabbage Lcr-rco 2..b 'I.- <'<»u
White cabbage Limi tod 1.4 0.6 1.0
Cliinc.se Lettuce Limited 1.0 0.4 0.7
Chinese Kale • icarco 1.8 0.8 i.4
Spring onion » food 0.6 0.2 0.4
Spinach Limited 1.5 0.6 1.?
Water cross Limited 1.0 o.'i- 0.7
1,-oaf mustard cabbage . icarcc 1.0 0.4 0.7
Tomato Limited 1.6 0.6 1.2
•Supplies and Wholesale Prices of ?prk_ (Live weiry*.;)
I? Ave 4 lability Wholesale Price
p£^''?P?X _ ( C/ PIC'LL.
hr (Average)
Pork Good •/<
P-
_ _ ~ O - -----
Oi
'oi
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Tuesday, March 19i 1974
CONTENTS
Page No.
Rice Advisory Committee discusses the rice supply situation ................................................... 1
February General Consumer Price Index goes up by four points • • •.....•................•.......................... 3
Delegation from the Chamber of Chinese Traders in Britain to visit Hong Kong.....................................• ••• 4
Water supply interruption in Central District ............... 4
Preventive Service to test the effectiveness of inflatable boat • • • • .............................................. 5
Two rural lots to be auctioned ....................•......... 6
Need for more special education classes emphasised .......... 7
Comments on Education Green Paper.......................... 9
********
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release timot 7* 00
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
Tuesday, March 19, 197^
- 1 -
RICE SUPPLY SITUATION DISCUSSED
Arrangements to ensure a stable rice supply situation avoiding price speculation in the light of any further increases in import prices for rice were discussed today by the Rice Advisory Committee*
Mr. Jimmy McGregor, Deputy Director of Commerce and Industry, said after the meeting that it must be assumed that the present upward trend in the international price of rice would continue for some time. Hong Kong would be affected in the same way as all other importing countries.
It was important, therefore, to ensure that the announcement from time to tine by exporting countries of price increases did not give rise to speculative activity in the rice trade in Hong Kong, leading to public fear of shortage.
The committee has agreed that the Commerce and Industry Department must use its legal powers to enforce sales of rice, if necessary, by importers to wholesalers and retail outlets to meet consumer demand.
!,If sufficient rice is sold into the system by importers this makes it completely unnecessary for any panic-buying by the public,” added Mr. McGregor.
Written guarantees have now been provided by wholesalers that they will not exceed the 32 per picul mark-up agreed by the committee.
Mr. McGregor said that firm action would be taken against any wholesaler demanding undercover payments.
/”We shall
Tuesday, March 19t 197^
- 2 -
”We shall show no' hesitation in denying rice to wholesalers if it can be proved to our satisfaction that they are exceeding the agreed mark-up. The committee agreed that this course of action should be taken.”
Detailed conditions for the direct purchase of rice by large organisations and retail outlets were agreed at the meeting.
The Commerce and Industry Department has so far received about
80 applications to participate in the direct purchase scheme. Those will now be processed as quickly as possible.
Referring to reports that Thailand will place a temporary ban on rice exports, Mr. McGregor said that the department had not yet been able to obtain any firm information.
The committee also had no information, although several membersr.like the department, are seeking clarification from Thailand.
’’Even if these reports prove to be correct, however, I do not believe that there is any real cause for alarm as other sources will make up for any shortfall in supply,” commented Mr. McGregor.
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/?........
Tuesday, March 19, 1974
- 3 -
FEBRUARY GXJ J* UP FOUR POINTS
The General Consumer Price Index for February 1974 was l8jt four points higher than that for the previous month.
This was due mainly to an' increase of eight points in the index for foodstuffs.
The index for fuel and light advanced by 12 points while the index for durable goods advanced by two points. # f • • ... *
Rises of one point each were recorded in the index for housing, the index for miscellaneous goods and the index for transport and vehicles
On the other hand, the index for services dropped by three f • • • 1 - • V . , .
points* Movements in the indexes for other sections of commodity ‘Were insignificant.
Compared with the previous month, there were increases in the average retail prices of rice, fresh water fish, pork, beef, poultry, eggs and meals bought away from home. On the other hand, the average retail prices of salt water fish and fresh vegetables dropped. f
As to non-food items, the rise in the index for fuel and light was attributable to increased charges for electricity and higher prices for kerosene and liquefied petroleum gas. The index for services was lowered as a result of reduced charges for hairdressing after the Chinese New Year^Festival.
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A.........
Tuesday, March 19i 197^
- 4 -
U.K. CHINESE TRADERS DUE THIS WEEK
*******
I t The Chamber of Chinese Traders in Britain will be paying a visit to Hong Kong later this week.
Headed by Mr. Chan Sau-on, the 11-man delegation will hold discussions with prominent businessmen and members of the Heung Yee Kuk during their week-long stay here.
The group will also call on the Governor, Sir Murray Maclxjhose and other senior Government officials, including the Secretary for Home i
Affajrs, Mr. Denis Bray and the District Commissioner, New Territories, Mr. David Akers-Jones.
Note to Editors: Mr. Chan and his party will arrive in
Hong Kong by British Airways, Flight BA 808 (E.T.A. 6.00 p.m.) on Friday (March 22).
---------------------------0-------------------------- I • 1-•
WATER CUT
*******
Water supply to a number of premises in Central District will be interrupted for five hours, starting from 1 a.m. on Thursday (March 21).
This will enable a leakage test to be carried out in the area.
The affected area is bounded by Queen’s Road Central from Garden Road to Pottinger Street and south side of Dee Voeux Road Central from Pottinger Street to Ice House Street.
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/5........
Tuesday, March 199 197^
- 5 -
PREVENTIVE SERVICE TESTING INFLATABLE BOAT
A 16-foot inflatable boat is being tested by the Preventive Service to evaluate its effectiveness for "strike and search" activities to curb drug snuggling activities in Hong Rong waters.
the boat is powered by a 40 horse-power engine and is capable of carrying 12 people. Overall cost is in the region of $20,000.
If trials prove satisfactory Government approval will be sought to equip the Preventive Service with a number of the boats for operational use.
They would be used for water-borne operations on outlying islands, patrolling inaccessible coastal areas and inshore patrols in shallow waters.
The craft is also being tested as a platform for Preventive Lervice divers to operate from when carrying out under-water searches for drugs dumped in remote areas.
Noto to Editors: You are invited to send a reporter and
photographer to cover a trial demonstration of the inflatable boat by Preventive Service divers on Wednesday morning, March 20. Launches to convey the Press to the scene of the demonstration will be leaving the new Government Pier, sast .►rm, Connaught Road Central, at 9 a.m. sharp. The Pier is adjacent to the Outlying Islands Ferry terminal.
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/6........
Tuesday, March 19, 197^
- 6 -
N.T. LOTS FOR SALE
***«*•
Tivo lots of Crown land on outlying islands are to bo sold by public auction in the District Office, Islands, on Tuesday (April 2) at 10.>0 a.m.
The first lot, located on Peng Chau, has an area of about 2,100 square feet.
The second lot, with an area of about ^-,060 square foot, is located at Iliii Wo, Lantao Island.
Both lots are for non-industrial purposes only.
Tull particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained. from and sale plans inspected at the New Territories Administration, ’North Kowloon Magistracy, Tai Po Road, Kowloon and at the District Offices of Yuen Long, Tguoh Wan, Tai Po, Sai Kung and Islands.
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Tuesday, March 19? 197^
MORE SPECIAL EDUCATION CLASSES NEEDED
********
The Education Department is anxious that many more special classes for children with learning difficulties are established in ordinary schools.
Under the Second Five Year Programme for the Development of Special Education ”we should like to have a total of 10,000 places for children with learning difficulties by 1977,” Miss Elizabeth Rowe, Senior Education Officer (Special Education), said today.
She was speaking at the opening of the special classes of the Po Leung Kuk group of schools and the Display of Teaching Aids.
Miss Rowe emphasised that it was most important that children who needed special education were integrated with ordinary children whenever possible in order that they could get the fullest benefit from the educational facilities available.
”The Department’s Special Education Section”, she said, "will be very happy to help with the selection of pupils, training of teachers and organisation of the curriculum.”
She gave an assurance that the Department’s fullest support would be given to any voluntary organisation which would like to establish special classes.
The aim of these special classes is to educate slow-learning children to the best of their potential and to prevent a minor handicap from becoming a major disability.
She stressed that if these children were not given the type of education they need, they would become bored and frustrated,.and feelings of inadequacy and resentment would begin to grow.
/”It is
Tuesday, March 1% 197^
- 8 -
”It is also recognised that such negative attitudes in childhood if allowed to persist without being remedied, may develop into anti-social behaviour in youth and adult life, w
,rIt is essential that every modern community should take measures to prevent this waste of human potential if as many of its citizens as possible are to become contributing members of the community,” she said.
Miss Rowe praised the Po Leung Kuk for its quick response to the Department’s appeal in April 1973 to voluntary organisations well established in the field of ordinary education to assist in implementing the Second Development Programme and provide special classes for children with learning difficulties.
She pointed out that the Kuk was the first voluntary organisation to offer this assistance. The Kuk opened three special classes in September 1973 and four more in February 1974.
”As a result, the Kuk now has seven special classes in ordinary primary schools," Miss Rowe said.
She thanked the Kuk’s directors for their immediate response to the Department’s request and for being so quick to put theirwor^s into action.
Miss Rowe commended the teachers cf the special classes in the Kuk’s schools for their enthusiasm and willingness in tackling their pupils’ problems with such understanding.
"They have also been most enthusiastic, imaginative and creative in devising and making their own teaching aids and supplementary graded teaching materials," she said.
Note to Editors: Copies of the full text of Miss Rowe’s speech
will ho distributed separately in the G.I.S. press boxes this evening.
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/9........
Tuesday, March 19» 197^
- 9 -
COMMENTS ON EDUCATION GREEN PAPER
********
The Education Department has received a number of questions from newspapers asking for comment on yesterday1s press release on the memorandum of Legco unofficials commenting on the Education Green Paper.
In reply, a spokesman for the Education Department said today: ”The full statement of the views of the ad hoc group of unofficial members of the Legislative Council was submitted to the government on February 1, 197^*
’’Since then two discussions have been held by the Education Department and Secretariat officers with members of the ad hoc group.
”A paper is being prepared for consideration by the Board of Education collating all the views which have been expressed by the public, interested professional bodies and, of course, by the unofficial members.
”It would, therefore, not be proper under the circumstances for the Education Department to single out any specific suggestions for comment at this stage.”
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Tuesday,-March 191 ^97^ •
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
The following prices under the Rice Control Scheme Wholesale Market and the Fish
were realised today (Tuesday) a* sales and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at
Cheung Sha Wan,
Kowloon:
Ruelles end Wholesale Prices of .Rice
• Availability of Supply __ TOioleeale Price (8/catty)
Grade China Rico Average
- old crop See Mevr _ ncw crop S.C.Jion - now crop Good Good 2.00 1.9£t
Po Ilgai Chu Clio • • ••
Thai Rice Yoo^/hole • Good 1.9o
10-15# Brokens A1 Super Extra • Good Good 1.67 1.52
A1 Super
V/hole Glutinous TJ ,SA Rice • * Good 1.82
Australian Ricg. -
Pakistan Rico,
Taiwan Rico,
/Supplies and *«
Tuesday, March 19, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Availability Wholesale Price
Species of Supply ---(,Vca.^-----
Higi Low • Average
Golden Thread Good 5.4 5.2' 4.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.2 0.7 1.8
Squid Limited 5.2 3.2 4.0
Hair-Tails Good 2.4 1.0 1.8
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.5 1.0 1.8
Croakers Good 2.2 0.7 1.5
Conger-Pike-Eels Good 2.5 1.8 2.0
Melon Coat - — ••
Breams Limited 4.8 3.0 4.5
Yellow Belly Good 1.5 0.6 1.0
Mackerels Normal 4.7 3.3 4.0
Rod Goat Fish Normal 1.55 0.5 1.0
Fork-Tail Normal 1.5 0.9 1.3
Horse-Head Normal 6.5 3.0 5.0
Melon Seed Normal 2.8, 1.8 2.6
Pomfrets - — bm
• Normal 7.0 5.0 6.0
Garoupas
* Yellow Croaker — MB M.
/Supplies and
*
Tuesday, March 19, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of
Locally Produced Veg-e tables
Typo Availability of Supply Wholesale Price
High (g/catty)
Low Average
Flowering cabbage Scarce 2.8 1.2 2.0
White cabbage Limited 1.6 0.8 1.2
Chinese Lettuce’ Limited 1.2 0.4 0.8
Chinese Kale Scarce 2.0 0.8 1.5
Spring onion Good 0.6 0.2 0.4
Spinach Limited 1.8 0.8 1.4
Water cross Limited 1.2 0.4 0.8
Loaf mustard cabbago 'Scarce 1.2 0.4 0.8
Tomato Limited 1.8 0.8 1.4
Supplios and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight)
Availability of Supply
Good
Wholesale Price ( 8/ piculL.
(Average)
Pork
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Wednesday, March 20, 1974
CONTENTS
Page. No.
Prisoners’ views on social causes of crime •.••••••••••••••••• 1
Adviser on teacher education completes six-week survey ••••••• 3
Governor to visit optical factory tomorrow ••••••••••••••••••• 4
Attendance for Service of the Order of the British Empire .... 5
61 new building plans approved last month •••••••••••••..••••• 6
Home Affairs Director to open new CDO sub-office at Aberdeen.. 7 Simplified tenancy conditions for shop operators in Group B
Estates ..........................«............................ 8
Temporary water cut in Yuen Long ..............................
********
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time : 7*15 P*m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
I
Wednesday, liarcli 20, 1974
- 1 -
SOCIAL CAUSES OF CHIME
As Seen By Prisoners
Sensational treatment of crime in the mass media received the most mention by prisoners in group discussions conducted by the Prisons Department on the social causes of crime.
The prisoners blame the mass media for "glorifying crime" and teaching potential offenders the ’’methods of criminal enterprise.”
They believe that the mass media suggest criminal or so:mal?_y abnormal. ideas and create a mental preparedness for temptation.
According to Miss Rebecca Wong, a sociologist working in the Prisons Department, the suggestion that the mass media are responsible for crime "enjoys little solid ground."
Studies do not indicate that reading, hearing or seeing so-called "harmful dramas" cause delinquency and crime, Miss Wong says.
Rather the opposite may be true.
"For example, an aroused desire for easy money and luxury," Miss 'Wong says, "may induce a man to work harder to earn more tlirough legitimate means."
/mother popularly suggested cause of crime is poverty. Economic deprivation and going to work at an early age are considered to have a detrimental effect.
Other causes suggested by the prisoners include crowded living conditions, broken homes, corruption, triad influence, and drugs#
/Miss Wong........
Wednesday, March 20, 1974
- 2
Miss Wong puts in a word of caution when using the findings from those discussions. She says that the materials that can be obtained are those that the prisoners are willing and able to report.
’’Reports about one’s criminal behaviour necessarily require selfdiagnosis which is often embarrassing, humiliating or degrading,” she says.
Objectivity is lost when one’s report tends, self-consciously and defensively, to show one in a favourable light.
Useful as they are for the study rf the criminal mind, Miss Wong says, the present findings show at best the idiosyncratic experiences of inmates in different penal institutions, their perception of reality and their self-concepts.
’’All these may bear little relevance to the social causes of crime,” she adds. %
More than 450 prisoners took part in these group discussions in the Prisons Department’s 13 penal institutions. Most of the participants were young offenders under 25*
The discussions were conducted by the department’s after care officers.
Miss Wong says: ’’Group counselling is a regular feature of after care services for the inmates. We brought out this particular subject for discussion during these sessions so that they could express thoir views freely on basis of their experiences.”
Group discussions provided the right atmosphere for prisoners to gain an insight into what they have done in the past, Miss Wong says.
’’With a group of ’people like ourselves’, ti ey can sponh their winds out without inhibitions.”
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Wednesday, March 20, 197^
- 3 -
TEACHER EDUCATION ADVISER
Completes Intensive Study
********
Mr. Charles Griffiths, a teacher education adviser who arrived in Hong Kong on February 7 at the invitation of the Education Department to advise on the professional training of teachers, will leave for London tomorrow.
During his six-week visit, Mr. Griffiths carried out an intensive grass roots study of teacher education in the colleges of education, the Assistant Director of Education, Mr. William Fisher-Short said today.
Mr. Griffiths has also visited the two universities, the Polytechnic and the Morrison Hill Technical Institute.
"He will advise on the internal organisation of, and courses conducted by, the three colleges of education and will, in due course, report on his views on the general development of teacher training to meet the demands of future educational expansion," said Mr. Fishery-Short.
During the course of his visit Mr. Griffiths, who is the Deputy Principal of the Sidney Webb College in London, has in addition established wide contact with many sectors of the education system.
He has spent time in primary and secondary schools of all types, had in*depth discussions with administrators and inspectors of schools, and has studied the contribution made to education by various statutory and private organisations.
/,TIn view
Wednesday, March 20, 197^
- 4 -
**In view of his specialised experience and expertise, we confidently expect Mr. Griffiths* recommendations will be of positive value to our developing education system,** Mr. Fisher-Short said.
Note to Editors: Mr. Griffiths will give a press conference
at 3«00 p.m. tomorrow (Thursday) in the Education Department’s Conference Room, Lee Gardens, 3rd floor, Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.
You are invited to have the press conference covered.
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GOVERNOR TO TOUR OPTICAL FACTORY
The Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose, will make a ’’shop-floor” tour of the North Point factory of W. Haking Industries (Mechanics & Optics) Ltd. tomorrow (Thursday) afternoon to see manufacturing operations in progress.
The firm is a leading producer of cameras, binoculars and other optical products. Its factory at Haking Building, 9&1 King’s Road, employs about 3,000 workers.
Sir Murray will arrive at the factory at 3 p.m., and will be met by Mr. Haking Wong, board chairman, and Miss Pauline Chan, permanent governing director. The Director of Commerce and Industry, Mr. David Jordan, and the Principal Trade Officer, Industrial Development Branch, Mr. K.H. Young, will be accompanying the Governor.
Note to Editors: You are invited to send a reporter and
photographer to cover the Governor’s visit. He will be arriving at Haking Building, 9^1 King’s Rd*, at 3 p»m., Thursday, March 21.
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/5.........
Wednesday, March 20, 197^
- 5 -
SERVICE OF THE ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE
******
Bie Queen has commanded that a Service of the Order of the British Empire should be held in St. Paul’s Cathedral at 11.J0 a.m., on Wednesday, May 22, 197^» The chairs presented to the Cathedral by the Order will be dedicated at this Service.
Her Majesty and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, Grand Master of the Order, will be present.
Those belonging to the Order and holders of the British Empire Medal who would like to attend this Service are invited to apply for a ticket to ’’The Registrar of the Order of the British Empire”, 8, Buckingham Gate, London S.W.1. The closing date for applications is April 14, 1974.
Applicants for tickets are asked to give their full names and the appointment which they hold in the Order (K.B.E.,C.B.E.,0.B.E.,M.B.E.,) or whether they hold the Medal of the Order. Letters customarily shown after the name denoting other Orders, Decorations or Medals should also be stated.
Further information on the Service may be obtained from the Director of Protocol, Colonial Secretariat, Hong Kong (Tel: 5-95212).
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/6.......
Wednesday, March 20, 1974
- 6 -
NEW BUILDING PLANS APPROVED
*******
A total of 61 new building plans were approved by the Buildings Ordinance Office last month as compared with a total of 43 in February last year.
The plans included one hotel building at the junction of Electric Road and Lau Li Street in North Point, and five apartment building projects in the "broadcasting city" area.
An apartment building and a school building in Mei Foo Sun Chuen were among 40 completed buildings certified for occupation in February. The total construction cost of the buildings exceeded 876 million.
Permission was given for the demolition of 41 buildings in the same month, including nine dangerous buildings located in Des Vocux Road West, Wing Lok Street and Bonham Strand West.
Consent to commence work was also granted to 46 building projects. Of those, 18 were on Hong Kong Island, 20 in Kowloon, and eight in the New Territories.
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Wednesday, March 20, 1974
OPENING OF NEW CDO SUB-OFFICE .^T ABERDEEN
********
Note to Editors: The Director of Home Affairs, Mr. Eric Ho,
will officiate at the opening ceremony of the Aberdeen sub-office of the Western City District Office on Friday (March 22).
The new sub-office is situated at 52-64 Aberdeen Main Road, Ground floor, Hong Kong. It replaces the former and much smaller sub-office to cater for the increasing needs of the community in the districts - > •
• f J.
Mr. Ho will be accompanied by four local residents in Aberdeen district during the ribbon cutting ceremony at 3*30 p.m. - Mr. Chan Hin-wah, a hawker, Mr. Leung Yin-chee, a fisherman, Miss Ho Po-chun, a factory worker, and Mr. Kwok Sui-fai, a student.
Mr. Peter Ng, City District Commissioner (Hong Kong) and Mr. Rafael Hui, City District Officer (Western) will also attend.
Press, T.V. and radio representatives are invited to cover the event. Transport to the suboffice will be provided.
Media representatives are requested to assemble at the entrance of the City Hall opposite Queen’s Pier at 2.40 p.m. on Friday. An officer of the home Affairs Department will be there to assist them.’
-------0--WW
/8 .......
Wednesday, March 20, 197^
- 8 -
SHOP TENANCY CONDITIONS SIMPLIFIED
*********
Conditions of tenancy for shop operators in Group B estates were made public today by the Housing Authority.
These conditions, which are similar to those contained in the existing tenancy cards, have been simplified and worded in layman’s language for the benefit of shop keepers.
The Authority has carefully considered them to ensure that tenants’ fear of a threat to their security of tenure is completely removed.
The only major change concerns transfer of tenancies other than by succession and inheritance.
Such transfers must be made by surrendering the tenancy to the Authority, which will then re-let the premises by inviting public tenders through advertisements. The re-letting premium will go to the outgoing tenant. lrPhis new arrangement will completely remove any possible scope for irregularities and will also likely produce a higher premium for the outgoing tenant as the incoming tenant will no longer have to be an estate resident as previously reqired,” a Housing Authority spokesman said.
He added that during a tenant’s lifetime or on his death, his tenancy may be transferred to a member of his family or his lawful successor, subject to the approval of the Authority in writing.
In the meanwhile, the Housing Department has written to the 10,000-odd shop operators in the various estates informing them of the conditions of the tenancy agreement •
Mr. Donald Liao, Director of.Housing, emphasised that the introduction of the agreement was purely to improve management.
,rIt is not the Authority,'s aim or intention to deprive tenants of any of the privileges they have been enjoying," he said.
/The conditions
Wednesday, March 20, 1974
The conditions of tenancy are as follows:
1. The tenant shall:
(a) pay the rent in advance on the first day of each month;
(b) pay any additional rates which may in future be assessed over and above the amount of rates shown overleaf;
(c) keep the shop in a clean, tidy and hygienic condition and carry out any cleansing directed by an authorised officer;
(d) permit any authorized officer to enter the premises at any reasonable time for the purpose of inspecting them;
(e) obtain any necessary licence or registration from the appropriate authority or Government Department for any business carried on in the premises;
(f) confine his business, furniture, fittings and stock within the limits**^ the shop;
(g) carry out all cooking or water heating by means of a fuel approved by the Housing Authority.
2. The tenant shall not:
(a) add or remove from the premises any fixtures, fittings or structures, or carry out any alterations to the premises vzithout the previous approval in writing of the Housing Authority;
(b) assign, sublet or part with possession of the premises other than as stated in clause 3(g) or permit any person to reside therein except the persons named overleaf;
(c) use the premises for any trade or business other than that shown overleaf, except as provided in clause 3(f);
(d) do or permit to be done in the shop or any part thereof anything which might be or become a nuisance, annoyance or disturbance to the occupiers of other premises in the neighbourhood or in any way against the laws of Hong Kong;
(e) permit to be brought into the ehop any arms, ammunition, gunpowder, fireworks or any other explosive or inflammable goods (other than a reasonable quantity of kerosene or liquefied petroleum gas for the tenantfs own use);
(f) keep any animal or livestock of any kind except one cat.
The tenancy •••••••
Wednesday, March 20, 197?
- 10 -
3. (a) The tenancy is subject to the Housing Ordinance, 1973j and to all regulations and by-laws made thereunder.
(b) The tenancy may be determined by the tenant on at least one month’s notice in writing expiring on the last day of a calendar month.
(c) On any determination the tenant shall yield up the premises in good and tenantable condition and shall hand over the keys to an authorized officer.
(d) The rent payable may be varied by the Housing Authority provided always that the Housing Authority shall give not less than one month’s notice in writing of such variation.
(e) During the lifetime or at the death of the tenant, the tenancy may be transferred to a member of his family or his lawful successor or a partnership (of which the tenant is a partner himself), subject to the approval of the Housing Authority in writing.
(f) A. change of trade can be allowed provided the new trade meets estate needs and does not harm the estate environment; applications must be approved by the Housing Authority in writing.
(g) Any tenant wishing to transfer his shop tenancy other than as stated in clause 3(e) may give the Housing Authority notice in writing to surrender the premises. The Housing Authority will then advertise the tenancy for letting on payment of a lump sum premium, and such premium received by the Housing Authority will be paid to the outgoing tenant. Notice to surrender under this clause will bo irrevocable after the Housing Authority has accepted a tender.
(h) Any notice to the tenant shall be sufficiently served if sent by ordinary post addressed to him at the shop or left at the premises.
-------0---------
WATER CUT
Water supply to a number of premises in Yuen Long will be interrupted for eight hours as from 10 p.m. tomorrow (Thursday) to facilitate a water mins connection near the 18}£ milestone at Castle Peak Road.
Affected will be premises along Castle Peak Road between the 1$ and 20 milestones, including Tai Lam Chung Tsuen, Siu Lam Tsuen, Cordon Camp, Psychiatric Centre, Siu Lam Hospital, Dragon Inn, Ching Wah Lane and Tseng Tau Wai Tsuen. ~
Wednesday, March 20, 197^
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
********
The following prices were realised today (Wednesday) at sales under the Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Rice
Grade Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (S/catty)
China Rice
Average
See Mew" old croP Good —
- new crop 2.00
S.C. Jien - old crop —
- new crop Good 1.94
Po Ngai - -
Chu Cho - -
Thai Rice
100% Whole —
10-15% Brokens Good 1.89
A1 Super Extra - —
A1 Super Good 1.52
Whole Glutinous — -
U.S. Rice Good 1.82
Australian Rice - —
Pakistan Rice ••
Taiwan Rice — * .....
/Supplies and •••••*•
Wednesday, March 20, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Firh
Availability Wholesale Price
Species of Supply (8/catty)
- Si* Low • Average
Golden Thread’ Good 4.8 3.5 4.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.6 0.8 1.8
Squid Normal 5.6 3.5 4.0
Hair-Tails Good 2.9 0.8 1.2
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.5 1.1 1.8
Croakers Good 2.0 0.6 1.5
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 2.7 1.8 2.2
Melon Coat Normal 2.7 1.7 2.0
Breams Normal 4.5 3.0 3.5
Yellow Belly Good 1.8 0.7 1.2
Mackerels Normal 5.2 3.2 4.5
Red Goat Fish Good 1.0 0.6 0.7
Fork-Tail Normal 1.6 1.1 1.4
Horse-Head Normal 6.3 3.2 5.5
Melon Seed Limited 3.8 . 1.8 2.8
Pornfrets Scarce 9.5 3.0 8.2
Garoupas • Normal * 6.8 5-5 6.0
Yellow Croaker — - — -
/Supplies and
Wednesday, March 20, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of
Locally Produced Vegetables
Availability Wholesale Price
of Supply (S/catty),
High Low Average
H.owering cabbage Scarce 2.8 1.4 2.2
White cabbage Scarce 2.0 0.8 1.5
Chinese Lettuce Limited 1.2 0.5 0.8
Chinese kale Scarce 2.2 0.8 1.6
Spring onion Good 0.7 0.2 0.5
Spinach Scarce 2.0 0.8 1.5
water cress Limited 1.4 0.4 1.0
Leaf mustard cabbage Scarce 1.0 0.3 0.7
Tomato Limited 1.8 0.8 1.4
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight)
Availability Wholesale Price
of Supply ($/picul)
(Average)
Pork Good 300
0 - -
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Thursday, March 21, 1974
CONTENTS
Page No.
Preventive Service stops up fight against illicit drug trafficking •.................................. a.....***
Modern cargo handling basin in Wanchai ready in two months • 4
Lifting of oil embargo on USA not likely to affect Hong Kong ....;..................................................... g
Major traffic diversions in Ho Man Tin to facilitate construction of flyover ••••••••.....................•••••••• 7
Variety show to mark 8th anniversary of Tai Hang Tung community centre ............................................. 9
"Know Your Government” forum for students to be held tomorrow ••••••..........................••••••••••••••••••• 10
Governor visits optical factory to see manufacturing process ••••••••••.............................................11
Residents of Lei Muk Shue Estate to get community hall and welfare complex.......................................... 12
Governor’s message to H.R.H. the Princess Anne .............. 13
««»****
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: 7.30 p.m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Thursday, March 21, 19?4
- 1 -
INCREASED EFFORTS BY PREVENTIVE SERVICE
To Suppress Narcotics Traffic
********
The 1,000»strong Preventive Service is straining its resources to the limit in an increased effort to prevent and suppress the traffic in illicit narcotics.
This assurance was given today by the Director of Commerce and Industry, Mr. David Jordan, in an address to the Kowloon Rotary Club on the work of the Preventive Service, of which he is Commissioner.
He pointed out that during the past two years Preventive Service personnel have been responsible for seizures of dangerous drugs valued at just over S50 million at street level.
Both the police and the Preventive Service, he said, had achieved some success in the battle against narcotics, but there was still a very long way to go.
,FThe traffic in narcotics has to be. tackled at every stage — from the cultivation of the opium poppy to the treatment and rehabilitation of the addict," he added.
Mr. Jordan said that the White Paper issued by the government lost week re-affirmed its determination to do everything it can to eradicate this^evil from our society, and the Preventive Service would continue to play its part.
But if the government agencies concerned were to succeed in this !U.ong campaign," support and help from the public was needed.
/"It’s pretty
Thursday, March 21, 197^
- 2 -
"It’s pretty difficult for anyone to carry on a large-scale drug*trafficking or drug manufacturing business without arousing someone1s suspicions," he said.
If the public would provide information — anonymously if they liked — the authorities would be greatly assisted in their job of trying to protect the community from the narcotics scourge.
Mr. Jordan said that during the past two yeans the evils and dangers of narcotics addiction — and the immense damage done to both the economy and the health of the people — have highlighted the vital need to take effective action against all forms of drug trafficking.
The main function of the Preventive Service in this respect was to prevent trafficking, to put every obstacle in the path of the traffickers and to make it as difficult, dangerous and expensive as possible for them.
"Our resources, with about 1,000 officers and men, are strained to the limit, but nevertheless we have made an impact on the problem in bottling up the major danger spots — the harbour and airport, the main entry points," said Mr. Jordan.
"Over the past few years, the methods we have employed have succeeded in denying the use of these areas to all but the casual smuggler with the result that traffickers have had to resort to methods which are both expensive and complex."
Mr. Jordan also spoke about the work of the Preventive Service in collecting government revenue from dutiable commodities.
He said that the total estimated revenue from duties on oils, liquor and tobacco in the coming year from April 1, 197^', is $535 million, which is over 10 per cent of the estimate of total revenue for the year.
/"Collecting
Thursday, March 21, 197^
- 3 -
“Collecting taxes and duties is never a papular jab but it is an essential one,” he pointed aut.
“V/e live in an increasingly complex society in which the government has a very big role to play in providing many services that must be provided by some central authority, and in financing other services too.
“I7e must have a police force, hospitals, schools, housing, roads and many other things. The government has to collect taxes to do all these things and \ie should all pay our share. If any of us avoids paying his share then the law-abiding people have to pay more to make up for it.”
Mr. Jordan continued: “It is difficult to relate the few cents we pay on a packet of cigarettes or a drink to the huge sums that the government raises and spends on our behalf. It is perhaps easier when we see reports of cases of large-scale tax evasion.
“Nevertheless, the fact remains that when anyone cheats the tax collector he is not just cheating the government: he is cheating us all, because he is n'-t paying his fair share for the services from which we all benefit•“
Mr* Jordan said he was sure we would accept too that we must not expect to receive benefits in direct proportion to the tax we pay.
,fIt is right that those of us who are better off should contribute more to the benefit of the community which gave us our opportunities, and that those who have not had our good fortune should contribute less,” he added.
Note to Editors: Gopiec of the full text of Mr. Jordan’s
speech (English only) are boxed for collection.
- o ------------ /4.....................
Thursday, Korea 21, 197'4
FIRST MODERN CARGO HANDLING BASIN Ready In About Two Months ft ft ft ft ft ft
Hong Kong’s first specially built cargo handling area for snail craft nt the banchai Reclamation is nearing completion with the construction of two building blocks.
These two blocks - one in two storeys for offices and one single-storey with a canteen, toilets and showers - will be used by Karino Department staff who will manage the facilities.
Work is expected to start later this month and soon after its connletion in two months, the cargo handling basin will be ready for operation.
The Wanchai basin is the first of 10 other similar facilities being planned or under construction. Sites for the others are in Knun Tong*, Chai Wan, Shaukiv/an, Western District, Kowloon Bay, Tai Kok Tsui, Shamshuipo, TvOiibler Channel, Tsuen Wan and Tuen Mun.
It is situated on the waterfront to the east of the Wanchai ferry pier concourse and near the entrance to the cross harbour tunnel. It will provide facilities for the loading and unloading of cargo by both vessels and vehicles.
“Marine Department staff will work 24 hours a day to enable cargo to be handled even at night,” the Senior Karine Officer (Cargo Handling), Mr. Bernard Tang said. ”As the basin is sheltered from the open sea by an arm extending into the harbour, cargo movement can be maintained even when ’number one typhoon signal is up.
/"It is also .......
Thursday, March 21, 197^
- 5 -
”It is also proposed to charge a lower fee for the use of the basin at night,” ilr. Tang said.
’’This,” he added, ’’should encourage shippers to work their cargo during off-peak hours, and help to reduce traffic congestion on the roads.”
The waterfront at the basin is more than 2,800 feet long and can used, all at the same time, by 21 lighters, 28 motor cargo boats and 126 lorries.
Optimum use will be made of this waterfrontage, Mr. Tang said. The supervising staff will be equipped with portable radios and will bo in constant contact with each other so as to direct lorries to their correct positions < • along the waterfront in the shortest time and with the least inconvenience.
when fully operational, the basin will be able to handle more than
1,000 tons of cargo a day.
This will boost the local cargo handling capacity, Mr. Tang said, besides alleviating any temporary shortage of cargo handling area taken up by the Central reclamation scheme.
The Marine Department is having discussions with transport companies and the cargo handling community on the operation of the now facilities.
Anyone wishing to make use of the facilities or who wants to have more details can contact Mr. Bernard Tang on Tel. No. 5-450181.
Note to Editors: Copies of a photograph of the cargo handling
basin are boxed for collection. ----------------------0--------- /6...............................................
Thursday, March 21, 1974
6 -
HONG KONG UNLIKELY TO BE AFFECTED
By Lifting Of Arab Oil Embargo On America
The Director of Oil Supplies, Mr. Roy Porter, said today that based on information he had received so far, Hong Kong was not likely to be directly affected in any way by the lifting of the Arab oil embargo on the United States.
’’But, of course, anything which decreases world tensions and economic problems is to be welcomed,” Mr. Porter added.
The Director of Oil Supplies was answering questions from newspapers and members of the public who wanted to know whether the Arab move meant increased supplies to Hong Kong as well.
Mro Porter explained that the Arab nations were reported to have said they would .increase production sufficiently only to meet American needs.
”If this is so, there will be no effect whatsoever on Hong Kong, good or bad,” he said.
”But,” he added, ”the practical results of the decision have still to be seen.”
Mr. Porter assured the public that his department was nontinu5ng to watch developments very closely, and would lift partially or entirely the remaining restrictions as soon as it was possible to do so without adversely affecting essential services and -industry^
- - - — 0 -------
Thursday, March 21, 197^
- 7 -
TRAFFIC DIVERSIONS IN HO MAN TIN , .7. ’
*********
An extensive traffic diversion scheme will come into operation on Saturday morning (March 23) in conjunction with work on the new flyover being built in Argyle Street to cross the Princess Margaret Road flyover, . •; •. ■.;? ' • :■ *
Work on the project has now reached the stage where piles have to be sunk close to the Princess Margaret Road flyover, and to enable this to be carried out, the present traffic pattern has to be altered for a period of about two months.
From 10 a.m. on Saturday, vehicles travelling south on Waterloo Road will no longer be able to continue straight through at ground level into Princess Margaret Road.
Traffic wishing access to the Ho Man Tin area should use the existing Princess Margaret Road flyover into Princess Margaret Road, turn left into Sheung Hing Street, left into Fat Kwong Street and left into Sheung Shing Street. '
Through-traffic wishing to continue down Waterloo Road or turn right from Waterloo Road into Argyle Street will only be able to operate on one lane instead of the normal two.
Traffic from the Mong Kok direction will not be able to turn right into Princess Margaret Road. Motorists wishing to go to schools in the Ho Man Tin area should follow the newly placed direction signs to Waterloo Road, Pui Ching Road, Fat Kwong Street and Sheung Shing Street.
/Two new
Thursday, March 21, 197^
- 8
Two new U-turns have been constructed to help relieve, as
much as possible, the inevitable disruption to traffic by these diversions.
One will enable cross*'harbour tunnel—bound traffic from -the Mong Kok area to return into Argyle Street and then along Waterloo Road," and the- other will enable 'southbound traffic in Waterloo Road to turn north before ths. Argyle Stx*eet junction and back into Waterloo Road, then, left into Prince Edward Road towards Mong Kok. • --- • i- •
Police will be on hand to assist motorists during the implementation
— of the scheme. ..--•••. . ...... .* ’ " • " . - • ■•••
-A.spokesman for the Public Works Department said today that
part of.-the piling: for the new Argyle Street flyover is being done by
a machine spnciaJly developed for the work by the main contractor^.
Gfammon (Hong Kong) Limited« - ■ < .
Note to Editors,: Copies of a diagram showing the diversion
• are boxed for collection. -- ~
I
Thursday, March 21, 1974
- 9 -
COMMUNITY CENTRE CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY *«**»*****
The Social Welfare Department’s Community Centre in Tai Hang i
Tung, Kowloon, will be celebrating its 8th Anniversary tomorrow (Friday). Opened in 1966, the Centre provides a variety of community, group and welfare services for people living in the surrounding areas.
It also has a library with a membership of 3,500, a club for the deaf and a nursery run by a voluntary organization which caters for small children.
The department’s Rural Mobile Service Unit which organizes activities for young people in the New Territories as well as providing a library on wheels service, is also attached to the Centre.
To mark its anniversary, members of the Centre will be holding an evening of celebration tomorrow at which there will be entertainment in the form of songs and dances, dramas and demonstrations of Chinese boxing and a gymnastic display,Winners of various competitions sponsored by the Centre will receive their prizes together with volunteers who will be given souvenirs in appreciation of their services during tHe
* past year.
It is expected that some 400 people will attend the ceremony which will be officiated by Mr. Kwok Ka-chi, Principal Social Welfare Officer of the Group and Community Division under which the Community Centres are operated.
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/10.......
t
Thursday, March 21, 1972*
- 10 -
OVER 600 STUDENTS TO ATTEND FORUM
********
More than 600 secondary students will attend tomorrow's forum "Knowing Your Government” at the Ho Lap College assembly hall in San Po Kong, Kowloon#
Twenty-four representatives from 12 schools will play an active part in the discussions at the forum, an event organised by the Economic and Public Affairs Section of the Department in collaboration with the City District Office, Wong o,Tai Sin.
They will be addressed in Cantonese by a Chinese University lecturer and three government officials. Before the talks and discussions begin, prizes and souvenirs will be presented to the winners of the Second Civic Week's exhibition.
Mr. Hilton Cheong-Leen, Unofficial Member of Legislative Council, will make a speech before the school forum is opened by the Deputy Director of Education (Professional), Mr. Ho Nga-ming.
Note to Editors: You are invited to send representatives to
cover the events tomorrow.
The prize-giving ceremony begins at a.m.
and the forum will last from 10.30 a.m. to 3*^5 p»nu
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Thursday, March 21, 1974 u* ' -
- 11 -
GOVERNOR TOURS OPTICAL FACTORY
*«*»***»
• • J •
The Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose, today toured the North Point factory of W. Haking Industries (Mechanics & Optics) Ltd to see manufacturing operations in progress.
The firm employs over 3,000 workers and is the largest and most sophisticated manufacturer in the photographic and optical products industry in Hong Kongo
Sir Murray visited the firm’s 20-storey complex at Haking Building, 9?% King’s Road, accompanied by the Director of Commerce and Industry, Mr. David Jordan. They were met on arrival by the governing directors, Mr. Haking Wong and Miss Pauline Chan.
As well as seeing manufacturing operations, Sir Murray also visitod some of the family living quarters provided for the factory’s employees. •
At the end of 1973 the photographic and optical instruments industry in. Hong Kong comprised 31 factories employing 3,300 workers. Exports of cameras and other optical instruments last year amounted to 3136 million - an increase of 34 per cent over 1972.
The main overseas markets for the industry are the United States, Britain, the Federal Republic of Germany, Australia and Singapore. The value of exports has increased steadily over the past four years, averaging ✓
an annual growth rate of 23 per cent.
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/12
Thursday, March 21, 1974
- 12 -
NEW COMMUNITY HALL - WELFARE COMPLEX FOR TSUEN WAN
The Social Welfare Department is now inviting voluntary welfare organizations to apply for space in a community hall and welfare complex being planned for the Lei Muk Shue Housing Estate in Tsuen Wan*
Unlike previous estates where all, welfare services are housed in a single building, the welfare accommodation for Lei Muk Shue will be separate*
Those welfare organizations extending their services to this estate will be accommodated in Blocks 1 and 2. The whole of the ground and 1st floors of Block 1 and part of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd floors of Block 2 have been reserved for this purpose. Added to this will be a communal hall which is being built as an annex to the high blocks to complete the complex. The total area making up this community hall and welfare complex will, bo nearly 30,000 square feet.
The community hall will be managed by the Social Welfare Department while the welfare premises will be managed by the Housing Department.
Application forms and further information may be obtained from the Planning and Development Unit of the Social Welfare Department in Leo Gardens, Hong Kong.
Estate welfare accommodation is planned according to the proin s? on of one estate welfare building or complex for every 50,000 people.
When completed in 1975 the population of Lei Muk Shue will be 49,000 accommodated in 14 blocks. At the moment eight of these have been completed and there are now about 30,000 people living there. The other blocks will be /finished by
Thursday, March 21, 197^
- 13 -
finished by mid-1975 when this new community hall and welfare complex is al^o expected to bo ready. Existing welfare facilities include a children’s club and library, a nursery, three clinics and four kindergartens.
The aim of an estate welfare building or community hall and complex is to provide co-ordinated social welfare services in estates.
There are currently seven estate welfare buildings under the management of the Social;. Welfare Department and these are located at Lam Tin (tvzo centres), Sau Mau Ping (two centres), Shek Lei, Ngau Tau Kok, Tsz Wan Shan. Another is under construction in Tsz Wan Shan* and should be completed by August this year. *
-------o----------
• • * • < GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE TO PRINCESS ANNE
* * * * 41 «
The Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose, has sent a message to the -......
Secretary of State on behalf of the people of Hong Kong expressing relief over the escape of H.R.H. the Princess Anne and her husband, Captain Marfz Phillips, in yesterdayts attack on them.
In his message, the Governor says:
,TPlease inform Her Royal Highness Princess Anne of the relief with which the people of Hong Kong learned that H.R.H. and Captain Mark Phillips escaped injury in the disgraceful attack made upon them yesterday
-------0---------- ■ • .........................
Thursday, March 21, 197^
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
******
The following prices were realised today (Thursday) at sales under the Rice Control Schene and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market, and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Won, Kowloon:
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Rice
Grade Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (S/eatty)
China Rice Average
Seo Mew “ old 1
- new crop Good
2.00
S.C.. Jion - new crop Good 1.94
Po Ngai — •
Chu Cho —
Thai Rico
1OC^ v/hole
10-15% Brokons
- «
AX Super Extra — V “
A.1 Super Good 1.52
Whole Glutinous Good 2.00
U.S. Rice Good 1.82
Australian Rice
Pakistan Rico
Taiwan Rice Good' ” ’ 1,6O
/Supplies and
Thursday, March 21, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Species • Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (8/catty)
Golden ©iread Good Hi£h 5.2 Low • 2.8 Average 4.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.7 0.8 1.8
Squid Limited 6.0 3.0 5.0
Hair-Tails Normal 3.0 1.2 2.6
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.7 1.2 2.0
Croakers Good 2.6 1.0 2.0
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 2.8 1.7 2.2 ’
Melon Coat Normal 3.0 1.8 2.8
Breams Normal 4.0 3.5 3.8
Yellow Belly Good 2.4 0.75 1.5
Mackerels Normal 5.2 3.2 4.0
Rod Goat Fish Good 2.0 0.6 1.5
Fork-Tail Normal 1.7 1.2 1.4
Horse-Head Limited 6.5 3.5 5.0
Melon Seed Scarce 3.8. 2.0 3.0
Poof rets - — —
Gnroupas Normal 7.5 5.5 6.5
Yellow Croaker — *•
/Supplies and «.«•
Thursday, llrrch 21, 197^
Supplies and, Wholesale Prices og
Locally Produced Vegetables
type Availability ogj>upp*x — Wholesale Price (S/catty)
lov; Averago «—. ■ * 1 - ■' r '
y. Flowering cabbage Limited 2.6 1.0 2.0
White cabbage Scarce 1.8 0.8 1.4
Chinese Lottuoo Limited 1.2 0.4 O.o
Chinese Kale Limited 2.0 0.8 1.4
Spring onion Good 0.8 0.5 0.5
Spinach . Scarce 2.0 0.8 1.5
Water orcss limited• 1.2 0.4 0.8
• 0.8
Loaf mustard. cabbage Scarce 1.2 o.5
Tomato Limited 1.8 o.8 1.4
Wholesale Pricco of PorkJU™. weight) •
Availability of Supply Wholesale Price ( JZ picul)_.
ru* (Average)
• Pork Good • 300
FKlfii® Gisl |«
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Friday, March 22, 197^
CONTENTS
Page No*
Retail rice prices likely to go up slightly.......*.....• ••*. 1
Bus-only lanes will be introduced in the Mid-Levels to improve traffic flow ••••••*••*•••...................................... 2
Call for closer link between government and university engineers •••••••••••••*•••••••••••.....................• •••• 5
Nev/ homes for villagers affected by High Island Scheme • • • • • 8
New CDO sub-office opened at Aberdeen .........•••••••••••••• 9
Family education seminar for parents ......................... 10
Arboretum of local plant species being developed in New Territories *•••••••••.................•..................... 11
********
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release Time: 7*^0
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Friday, March. 22, 1974
- 1" -
NEW RICE PRICES UNDER DISCUSSION
A slight increase in rice prices at retail level is inevitable in the.wake of the six per cent increase in the price of rice from CHna which.'comes into effect on April 1,' the Commerce and Industry Department announced today.
After preliminary discussions last night, the Rice Advisory Committee will be meeting again next week to decide on the new prices at which importers will sell rice to wholesalers,and the effect on consumer prices will be carefully considered to ensure that no undue increase occurs*
"While the higher import costs have got to be taken into account, the Rice Advisory Committee has agreed that the increase in retail prices should be kept to a minimum," a DC & I spokesman said.
In the meantime, to avoid speculative activity, importers aro under instructions from the Commerce and Industry Department to release ti£iplc stocks for sale on the local market.
"Our principal concern is to ensure that no unnecessary profiteering takes place until the new prices come into effect, and the Rice Advisory Committee is giving its full co-operation to achieve this," the spokesman added*
-------0---------
2
CLEARING-MID-LEVELS - BOTTLENECK
Bus—Only Lane To Be Introduced
****** ... V
A major traffic improvement scheme-for--±h^J4id-Levols_area, embodying priority for buses and providing for better and extended bus services, is to go into operation on April 16, just after the Easter holiday.
The scheme, which could achieve a breakthrough in the use of traffic management techniques to help solve one of Hong Kongf s pres^n ng transport problems, has been drawn up by the Highways Office of the Public Works Department in close consul tat ion.-wi th. the Transput Department and in liaison with the China Motor Bus Company.
A government .spokesman said today that the central feature of the scheme is the provision of a one-way lane for buses only (inn!nding school buses), with all other vehicular traffic travelling on the other lane in the opposite direction. The only exceptions will be emergency service vehicles like ambulances and fire engines which will be able to use either lane.
The scheme will cover the entire length of Caine Road, the section of Bonham Road from Caine Road to Park Road, all of Park Road and the section
I of Robinson Road from Park Road to its junction with Glenealy.
Buses will travel in a westerly direction along Caine Road and Bonham Road, and*in'an easterly direction along Park Road and Robinson Road, returning to Central down Garden Road.
/All other
Friday, March 22, 197^
? • ’ ” tget
- 3 -
All other traffic will move in the opposite direction - west along Robinson Road and Park Road and east along Bonham Road and Caine Road4
As part of the scheme, a new bus service will be introduced by the China Motor Bus Company from the Star Ferry to Kotewall Road, terminating at its junction with Conduit Road.
It is expected that this 5-minute frequency service vri 1 ~l operate on a guaranteed seat basis, with passengers paying a flat fare of 50 cents for a single journey.
At the same time, the frequency of some of the existing bus services operating through the area will be increased to provide improved facilities for residents who find it more convenient to leave their cars at home and travel by public transport.
Commenting on the thinking behind the scheme, the spokesman said * "There has been much public comment in recent years that if the government is to persuade people to make more use of public transport and less use of private cars, then there must be better public transport facilities.
t
"This comment is of course justified. And, in the case of the
% * Mid-Levels, where considerable development has caused congestion over the years, the best instrument for facilitating an immec^ia^o improvement in public transport services in the bus-lane scheme."
The spokesman pointed out that the scheme had required detailed planning and co-ordination. ,rNew traffic signs have had to be prepared and extra traffic light signals are being installed and signal frequencies adjusted."
/School buses
Friday, March 22, 1974
- 4 -
School buses will be able to use the bus-only lane as well as the general traffic lane.
Because the roads will be made urban clearways, parents driving their children to schools in the area will not be allowed to stop or wait on the side of the roads.
Instead, provision will be made in side-streets for parents ■
to drop off their children at locations closest to their schools.
Special information material is being prepared for distribution to the schools in the area, so that teachers, pupils, parents and school bus operators will be familiarised with the arrangements in advance. ;•
The spokesman concluded: nWe are confident that the scheme will •maize travel to and from school easier.
”We also believe that the improved bus services in the area will? offer a real and attractive alternative to private motorists who would like to switch to public transport as a means of travel between Mid^Levels and the main commercial and shopping areas on the Island.fT
• •••••••
Note to Editors: % Copies of a sketch-map illustrating the scheme are boxed for collection.
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• • • . .
/5........
Friday, March 22, 1974
- 5 -
CLOSER RELATIONSHIP URGED
Between Government And University Engineers
******
The Secretary for the Environment, Mr. James Robson, this evening called for closer relationship between practising structural engineers and their counterparts at the University of Hong Kong and the Polytechnic.
Addressing the annual dinner of the Structural Engineers Institution (Hong Kong Branch) at Hong Kong Club, he discussed how the engineers and the universities could help the community in its present economic ennstran nts„
The universities he felt r.ould be more involved in investigations and research into problems which at present may be unique to Hong Kong but which, in duo course, could be of value to the rest of the world.
Er. Robson noted that Hong Kong had become something of a haven for highly-paid engineering consultants from other countries. But while he regarded this as a healthy reflection of the resolute pace Hong Kong had adopted in its forward planning, he wondered how much of this expertise was brushing off and being retained in Hong Kong.
Commissioning of consultants, he explained, was a long drawn out process and participation of the university or the polytechnic in consultants’ activities would require them to meet the time tables agreed between the government and its agents, and hence require a discipline of time usually absent from pure research.
”If there were closer working contacts between the various faculties at the universities and their Government counterparts, it should be possible, while drawing up the consultants’ briefs, to consider whether the universities had any part to play.
/’’They might ......
$
Friday, March 22, 197^ - 6 -
’’They might, for instance, be carrying out some parn11.nl investigation which could form part of the project; or the consultants’ brief might be expanded to provide data required by the university for some other important research."
Mr. Robson said there was, of course, the alternative of the universities themselves sponsoring research projects which have immediate practical application — just as the polytechnic is charged with developing closer relationships with industry and carrying out research into specific problems posed by local industries.
”In a nutshell/’ he added, ’’all I am recommending is investment in research, development and training.’’
The Secretary for the Environment pointed out that the government’s ten-year housing programme would create tremendous opportunities for the construction industry.
More significantly, it would mark a departure from past policy by stretching out the horizons of forward planning. ’’For the first time, we are going beyond the immediate requirements of the next few years tc take a bold and realistic look at the scale of housing we want to provide ten years from now. 4
”It would bo gratifying indeed if our private developers and building contractors were equally far-sighted in anticipating the long-term demands and gearing up to meet them.” • '
• ■» .7
/far. Robson •••••••
1
<
- 7 -
Mr* Robson stressed that the public housing programme was not *
going to develop in a vacuum ,_divorced_entirely—from private housing. r
’’Obviously the levels of demand are going to be very closely related, on both sides, so that private housing is going to come under the sane degree of pressure to provide more accommodation at a reasonable price*”
While appreciating the contribution by private enterprise tovzards liong Kong, lir. Robson doubted the wisdom of continuing to drive speculative building into the future with dipped headlights, studying the next few yards of the road rather than the next few miJ es.
If looking ahead entailed ’’thinking big” then, it also suggested, breaking away from the traditional approach to building techniques.
He questioned, for instance, whether sufficient use was being made of prestressed concrete or new types of steel and steel sections, partic»lnrly in bridge construction, and in view of the shortages in cement and steel reinforcements he wondered whether other materials could not be used.
”Have wo given sufficient attention to the methods tried and tested overseas? Even if they are not entirely appropriate for Hong Kong, could they not be adapted?” he asked.
Mr. Robson said some more imaginative developers had already shown the way, but there seemed to be plenty of scope for systems not yet attempted in this environment.
Note to Editors: Copies of the full text of Mr. Robson’s
speech are boxed for collection.
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/8........
Friday, March 22, 197^
ADDITIONAL HOUSING BLOCKS FOR VILLAGERS
******** <
Two more new housing blocks built on the Sai Kung reclamation for villagers who will have to move from the High Island Reservoir, were handed over to the New Territories Administration this morning*
A total of eight blocks is now available* Balloting for the shops and flats is expected to be held soon*
These eight blocks comprise 288 flats and 72 shops. Each flat has a floor area of more than 7.50 square feet, and includes such facilities as piped water, electricity, proper kitchens, baths and toilets.
4 An amenity area which includes a basketball pitch, a skating rink, gardens and rest places is being built in a traffic-free precinct between the blocks.
The Deputy Commissioner, New Territories, Mr. Ian MacPherson, and the District Officer, Sai Kung, Mr. Clive Oxley, and some 20 vi 11 ago representatives made a brief tour of the completed blocks after the handing over ceremony. ‘ ’
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/9.......
Friday, March 22, 1974
9
NEW CDO SUB-OFFICE AT ABERDEEN OPENED ********
The government will make every effort to eliminate all hardship which would be faced by people affected by development projects.
This assurance was given today by the Director of Home Affairs, 4 4 4
Mr. Erie-Ho । when he spoke of the constant change and development in Aberdeen at the opening of the Aberdeen sub-office of the Western City District Office.
To achieve this goal, he said, mutual understanding and mutual assistance were of vital importance. He explained that he was not only referring to the relationship between the government and the people but also to the relationship among individuals and groups.
“The object of this new office is to work towards these ends,11
Mr. Ho said.
Referring to the contributions which the City District Officer could offer, Mr. Ho said that through community involvement, he would draw all sectors of the community together, to make it more harmonious and cohesive. He was certain that all local organisations, such as kaifongs, i
voluntary agencies, fishermen’s societies would play an important role in I
assisting the CDO in his tasks.
“Secondly,“ Mr. Ho said, “by constantly extending and deepening his contacts, the CDO will be better able to appreciate all kinds of difficulties and problems faced by the people, particularly people affected by change and development, and to feed this information into the policy making processes of the government.“ i
The new sub-office, situated at 52-64 Aberdeen Main Road, Ground floor, replaces the former and much smaller sub-office to cater for the increasing needs of the community in the district*
Rote to Editors: Copies of the full text of Mr. Ho’s speech will
be distributed in the G.I.S. press boxes this evening.
- • - - o-------- /10.........
Friday, March 22, 197^
- 10 -
FAMILY EDUCATION SEMINAR
*******
Parents of 60 primary students in Tai Hang Tung Housing Estate have been invited to attend a seminar on Family Education tomorrow (Saturday).
The meeting will take place at the school on the roof of Block 13 in which all the participants reside.
It has been organized by the West Kowloon Children and Youth Guidance Council and the Tai Hang Tung Community Centre as part of a series of recreational and educational services for children living in the estate.
The objective of this seminar is to bring home to parents the importance of parental love and care in the normal development of children while at the same time helping them to achieve a better understanding of the way in which they can help their children in their education.
A Police Officer, and a. Social Worker will be speaking at the seminar.
Note to Editors; You are welcome to cover this meeting of parents tomorrow beginning at 3 orclock. It will be held at the Kwong Yueh School on the rooftop of Block 13j Tai Hang Tung Estate in Kowloon.
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/11
Friday, March 22, 1974
- 11 -
ARBORETUM. PLANNED IN N.T.
******
Work on Hong Kong’s first arboretum, which will contain a comprehensive collection of local plant species, is now being planned in the Shing Mun Plantations north of Tusen Wan.
The project, which is related to the conservation of the local flora, is being carried out by the Agriculture and Fisheries Department. The arboretum will be a valuable source of information for those interested in plant species and to botany students who wish to study the names, forms, colour and flowers of plants.
According to Mr. S.P. Lau, Forestry Officer and Keeper of the Hong Kong Herbarium, it will be some time before it is completed and opened to the general public as the plants will take some time to grow.
The Hong Kong Herbarium, new administered by the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, is responsible for the taxonomy (naming) of plants found locally.
Founded in 1878, it now houses more than 30,000 plant specimens which include not only all the known 1,833 indigenous plant species and varieties, but also some 600 exotic species now grown in Hong Kong.
The Herbarium is also responsible for the maintenance of living collections of plants, and members of the public are welcome to consult the botanical reference books and to inspect the plant specimen in the-Herbarium during normal office hours. It is located on 14th ^oor of the Kowloon Government offices at Canton Road, Kowloon.
/Meanwhile .......
Friday, March 22, 197^
- 12 -
Meanwhile, the Agriculture and Fisheries Department is again taking part in this year’s Urban Council Flower Show where a selection of exotic ornamental plants grown in Hong Kong, together with information on their countries of origin, are on display.
Another exhibit also presented by the dpeartment deals with the use of potted plants as a means of beautifying the house.
0 - -
Friday, March 22, 197^
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies ft******
The following prices were realised today (Friday) at sales under the Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Rice
Grade Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (8/catty)
China Rice Average
See Mew “ old cro* Good
- new crop 2.00
S»C. Jien - new crop Good 1.94
Po Ngai -
Chu Cho — -
Thai Rice 100^ Whole - -
10-15^ Brokens - -
Al Super Extra - -
A1 Super Good 1.52
Whole Glutinous Good 2.00
U.S. Rice Good 1.82
Australian Rice Good 1.80
Pakistan. Rice — —
Taiwan Rice Good 1.60
/Supplies and ••••«••
Friday, March 22, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Availability Wholesale Price
Species of Supply (S/catty)
High Low Average
Golden Thread Good 5.3 3.0 4.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.8 0.8 2.0
Squid Normal 5.2 3.5 4.0
Hair-Tails Good 2.9 0.8 2.0
Lizard Fishes Normal 3.2 1*1 2.0
Croakers Good 2.4 0.7 1.5
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 2.8 1.9 2.5
Melon Coat — - — ••
Breams Normal 4.5 3.0 4.0
Yellow Belly Good 2.3 0.7 1.4
Mackerels Good 4.8 3.2 4.0
Red Goat Fish Good -2.0 0.6 1.5
Fork-Tail Normal 1.8 0.9 1.2
Horse-Head •• — N srmal 6.0 3.5 5.0
Melon Seed Limited 2.5 1.8 2.2
Pomfrets Scarce 9.0 8.2 8.5
Garoupas Normal 7.0 5.5 6.0
Yellow Croaker —-
/Supplies and
Friday, March_22* 19?^
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of
...... Locally Produced Vegetables
- •• • • — - V Availability Wholesale Price
of Supply ($/catty)
. . — • •< High Low Average
flowering cabbage Limited 2.5 1.0 1.8
White cabbage Limited 1.8 0.6 1.2
Chinese lettuce Limited .1.2 0.4 0,8
Chinese kale • Limited 2.0 0.8 1.4
Spring onion • Good 0.8 0.3 0.5
Spinach Limited 1.8 0.6 1.4
Water cress Limited 1.2 0.4 0.8
Leaf mustard cabbage Limited 1.2 0.4 0,8
Tomato Limited 1.8 0,8 1.4
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight)
. Availability Wholesale Price
of Supply (S/picul).
* • •
(Average)
Pork Good 300
-------0---------
PRH 7
H-< 1»
Eis h«
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Saturday, March 23, 197^
CONTENTS
Page No*
More holiday-cun*-study trips for local officers — Merit Trip Scheme expanded ...........................................
Five-fold increase in grass fires: Public urged to be more careful •••••••••••*••••••......................................
Third seminar on further studies opens in Tai Hang Tung tomorrow ••••••••••••••.•••....................................
Traffic in Sai Wan Ho to be re-routed from Monday...............
Buffet lunch for severely disabled at Hong Kong Hilton next week ...........................................................
There will be an issue of Daily Information Bulletin tomorrow.
Release time:, 2.JQ p.m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Saturday, March 23, 1974
- 1 -
MORE HOLIDAY-CUM-STUDY TRIPS
For Local Officers
****** *
More local officers will have an opportunity to go overseas at the government’s expense as a result ot an expansion of the merit trip scheme.
The number of awards for the 1974/75 financial year has been more.than doubled from 12 to 30, and this will be reviewed again in the following year.
Under the scheme, which was first introduced in 1956, a number of selected local officers are each year provided with passages to the United Kingdom and allowances to enable them to spend their vacation overseas and at the same time undertake some training relevant to their work in Hong Kong.
A government spokesman explained that the trips are normally based in Britain because it offers better and more appropriate training facilities.
"It is also easier to organise, through the Hong Kong Government Office in London, visits to places of educational, cultural and historical interest and to arrange suitable short courses cr attachments," he added.
So far, a total of 123 local officers have benefited from the trips which now last between 45 and 60 days.
Another advantage of the scheme, the spokesman noted, is that it enables local officers to gain a deeper insight into different customs and helps them to broaden their outlook on life.
/,TWith their ••••••
Saturday, March 23, 1974
_ 2 -
"With their training and new experience, they thus get a better perspective and understanding of conditions in Hong Kong from which both the public service and the community benefit."
The main criteria for selection are that officers should normally be in the 40-50 age group with a substantial period of public service and a very good record. Community service is also taken into account.
-------0---------
FIVE-FOLD INCREASE IN GRASS FIRES
********
The long dry spell from September last year to the end of
February resulted in five times as many grass fires as for the same period in 1972/73, according to figures released today by the Fire Services Department.
The total number of grass fires was 2,504, compared with
527 in 1972/73* They represented close to 50 per cent of all fire calls answered.
The worst month was December when a total of 900 grass fires were dealt with out of a total of 1,485 fires.
A Fire Services spokesman said the most common cause of grass and other fires continued to be careless disposal of lighted cigarette ends and matches.
!,Even now," he said, "despite the wet weather, the fire risk is there and we appeal to the public to stub out their cigarette ends and blow out their matches before throwing them away."
-------0----------
Saturday, March 2J, 197^
- 3 -
THIRD SEMINAR ON FURTHER STUDIES
********
Some 400 senior secondary students from Tai Hang Tung area will be participating in a seminar on further studies tomorrow (Sunday)
The seminar will be held at the Tai Hang Tung Community Centre in Tong Yam Street, Kowloon, beginning at 10 a.m.
This is the third seminar on further studies organised by the West Kowloon Children and Youth Guidance Council and the Community Centre•
The intention is to provide students with some insight into the prospects of pursuing further studies either locally or abroad* Tomorrow’s seminar will deal with educational opportunities in Britain, the United States and Canada.
I
Representatives from the Chinese University, Wai Kiu College, Chan Shu Kui Memorial School and the Hang Seng Bank have been invited to speak.
Mote to Editors: You are welcome to cover the seminar
tomorrow. It will last about two hours from 10 a.m.
-------0---------
Saturday, March 23, 197^
TRAFFIC RE-ROUTINGS AT SAI WAN HO
«*****«»
New traffic arrangements are being introduced to improve traffic circulation at Sai Wan Ho Ferry Pier on the Island.
As from 10 a.m. on Monday (March 25) only northbound traffic will be allowed along the-section of Holy Cross Path between Shaukiwan Road and the new ferry pier. The corresponding section of Hoi Ning Street will be re-routed for one-way southbound traffic.
At the same time, Hing Man Street will be re-routed one-way westbound while the section of Hoi An Street between Shaukiwan Road and Hing Man Street will be re-routed for one-way northbound traffic only.
Public light buses will not be allowed to pick up or set down passengers between the hours of 7 a.m. and midnight on the section of Hoi Ning and Hoi An Streets north of Shaukiwan Road.
They will also be prohibited from entering the new ferry concourse and the section of Holy Cross Path between Shaukiwan Road and the new ferry pier. ...... • - -
However, a new public light bus stand will be set up on the southern side of Hing Man Street.
-------0---------
Saturday, March 23, 197^
- 5 -
BUFFET LUNCH FOR SEVERELY DISABLED
********
A. group of 35 severely disabled people will be feted at a buffet lunch on March 29 as guests of the Hongkong Hilton Hotel.
The hotel has.arranged to entertain the group in support of Rehabilitation Week which is being.held from March 25 to 31 •
The handicapped people are some of those living and working in the Settlement for the Severely Disabled run by the Social Welfare Department in Block 10 of the Kwun Tong Public Housing Estate.
The Settlement for the Severely Disabled is a workshop providing employment for 105 people whose disabilities do not permit them to obtain employment outside. Their ages range from 16 and over. They include 50 who are mentally-retarded and 30 physical disabilities.
Apart from this workshop there is also a hostel for 30 male workers.
Miss Stella Leung, Officer-in-Charge of the Blind and Physically Disabled Welfare Unit in the Social Welfare Department, said the offer to entertain these handicapped people was a very nice gesture on the part of the hotel and it would be a new and happy experience for those who would be attending.
Rehabilitation Week is a seven-day period in which there will be exhibitions, variety shows, talks on careers in helping the handicapped and tours of rehabilitation centres run by 22 organisations including the Social Welfare Department
/The Week
Saturday, March 23, 197^
The Week is being organised by the Joint Council for the Physically and Mentally Disabled of Hong Kong Council of Social Service in order.to promote a better understanding of disabled people, their capabilities and what is being done to help them.
Note to Editors: Reporters and cameramen are welcome to cover
the buffet lucnh party on Friday, March 29* It will be held from 12.00 noon to 2.00 p.m. at the India • Room of the Hongkong Hilton.
- - - - 0-------- •
SUNDAY D.I.B.
*******
Note to Editors: There will be an issue of the Daily Information
Bulletin tomorrow (Sunday)• Copies will be available for collection at 2.30 p.m. that day from the G.I.S. Press room on the 6th floor of Beaconsfield House.
0 - -
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Sunday, March 24, 1974
INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION CENSUS STARTS TOMORROW
Manufacturers Urged To Complete Questionnaires Early
*********
Starting tomorrow (Monday) the Census and Statistics Department’s staff will deliver or post questionnaire forms to be used for the 1973 Industrial Production Census.
This Census is the first of its kind in Hong Kong and will cover establishments engagedin manufacturing, mining and quarrying, electricity, gas and water supply. Information to be collected will, include employment, labour cost, materials and products, local sales and exports, capital expenditure and stocks of fixed assets.
A spokesman for the Census and Statistics Department said that Hong Kong is the only major manufacturing centre in the world which lias not collected industrial production statistics on a systematic basis.
"Both the government and commerce and industry have for some time been concerned about the lack of comprehensive statistics on industrial production and related subjects," he said. "Information of this kind is vital not only to negotiations with the government and industries abroad, but also to enable the government to facilitate economic and social development in Hong Kong.
" Manufacturers and merchants need these statistics so that they can compare their own performance with the overall average in the same industry sector. Industrial production and related statistics are also basic to economic analysis and research."
/In July ••••*••
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Sunday, March 24, 197^
- 2 -
In July and August 1971, the Census and Statistics Department conducted a Census of manufacturing establishments in order to establish a framework for this forthcoming Census. Extensive consultations with manufacturers and their associations were carried out in late 1972 and early 1973, and a pilot survey was held in May 1973 to test the organizational procedure and the ability on the part of manufacturers to complete the questionnaire.
The spokesman urged manufacturers to complete the questionnaires as soon as possible. The completed forms may either be returned to the department or be retained until they are collected by census officers. The census officers will do their utmost to assist manufacturers in completing the forms whenever necessary.
Detan!s supplied by individual establishments will be kept strictly confidential and will be published in such a manner that it is not possible to identify any individual establishment.
All completed forms received in connection with this Census will bo destroyed by fire not later than June 30, 197$.
The spokesman added that the accuracy and value of the published statistics will depend on the co-operation of the establishment managements and he appealed to manufacturing establishments and to trade and industrial associations for co-operation in this Census.
/3.........
o - -
Sunday, March 24, 1974
- 3
NEW WINTER UNFIROM FOR FIREMEN
****»*»«
Hong Kong’s firemen will take on a smarter look next Winter with the introduction of a new--style uniform.
The present, rather uncomfortable looking high necked tunic is to be replaced by a double-breasted, open necked, reefer style jacket, with six chrome buttons and matching trousers. The material, good quality Indigo Barathea, replaces the rough serge now used. A blue cotton shirt and black tie will also be worn.
A Fire Services spokesman said today that there had been no change in the style of firemen1 s uniforms for more than $0 years* "It is felt that the new uniform will be more in keeping with the times,1’ ho said?
Note to Editors: Copies of a photograph of the new uniforms
are hexed for collection.
Release. time; 2.^0 p,m.
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Monday, March 25« 1974
CONTENTS
Page No*
New scale of rice prices coming into effect from April 1 .. 1
Long-term development programme for rehabilitation services in the planning .......................................... J
Water interruption in Kowloon City........................... 4
Transport needs of handicapped will be considered........... 5
More powerful transmitter/receiver radios for Fire Services personnel ......................................... ...... 7
Fire rescue exercise at Tsing Yi Island on Wednesday.......• 8
Eighty new stalls for hawkers in Yau Tong Estate............. 9
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time; 7»3Q p«m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Monday, March 259 197^
- 1 -
ICT SCALE OF RICE PRICES ANNOUNCED
«»****«
A new scale of rice prices to come into effect next Monday (April 1) when China increases the price at which it sells rice to importers in Hong Kong, was announced today by the Commerce and Industry Department after a meeting of the Rice Advisory Committee.
The new prices provide for a maximum increase of 10 cents per catty in the retail price of top quality rice.
Members of the Rice Advisory Committee have agreed to a new scale which does not pass on the full six per cent increase in import prices for Chinese rice. For See Mew the retail price increase is about four per cent.
Importers Sales Prices and Maximum Fair Market Prices
With effect from April 1, 197^
Grade of Rice Importers Sales Price (S per picul) Retail Price ($ per catty)
China Rice :
A. Sec Mew 210 2.50
B. S.C. Jien 204 2*45
C. Yau Jien 203 2.45
Thai Rico :
A. 100# Whole (1st Grade) 210 2.50
B. 100^ Whole (2nd Grade) 201 2.40
C. 15# Broken 199 2.40
U.S.A. Rice :
A. 10-15# Broken (1st Grade) 192 2.50
B. 2nd Grade, round grain, un-remilled 180 2.20
/Australian Rice
Monday, March 25, 19?4
- 2 -
Australian Rice 'I90 2«J0
Taiwan Rice 158 2.00
Pakistan Rice 168.50 2.10
Mr. Jimmy McGregor, Deputy Director of Commerce and Industry, and Chairman of the Rice Advisory Committee, said that the committee would bring pressure to bear on any retailers selling above the prescribed maximum retail price.
"We have representatives from all sections of the trade on the committee, and with their support it would be possible to deny rice to wholesalers or retailers who overcharge on prices,” he added.
Mr. McGregor said that the committee had approved arrangements for direct sales of rice to be sold by importers to groups of refranlers, provided they complied with certain conditions.
To participate in the direct purchase scheme, retailers* groups v/oulpLh'ave to form an effective co-operative purchasing agency, and nominate a company to purchase the rice on their behalf on a cash basis.
The department has made arrangements for over 2,000 tons of rice to be offered for sale by importers this morning — more than double the normal consumption.
Mr. McGregor said that there should be no problem with supply and no increase in prices until the new price structure becomes effective on April 1.
”®ie new maximum prices will then apply throughout April without further change,” he said,
Note to Editors: The Commerce and Industry Department would
appreciate your co-operation in giving the widest possible publicity to the new rice prices which come into effect on April 1.
-------0-------- Z5...................
Monday, March 25, 197^
- 3 -
SIR MURRAY OPENS REHABILITATION WEEK
Long-Term Programme Plan On Rehabilitation Services Soon
o***«*»*
The government hopes to start work within the next few months on a long-term programme plan for the development and co-ordination of rehabilitation services in Hong Kong, the Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose, said today.
Ho was speaking at the opening of the Rehabilitation Week at the City Hall.
Referring to the government’s current Social Welfare Five-Year Plan, the Governor said it includes provision for social and vocational rehabilitation, case work services and counselling.
”The second development programme for special education for handicapped children is well underway,’" he said. ”This programme is aimed at increasing the number of school places for handicapped children, increasing diagnostic and remedial facilities such as speech therapy; and improving teaching standards through in-service training.”
FurthennorefSir Murray said, the Green Paper on Medical and Health Services includes proposals for the expansion of medical rehabilitation services.
”A11 this is evidence of the government’s concern for the disabled, and its awareness of present deficiencies, and its determination to do what it can to help meet them,” the Governor said*
/Sir Murray
Monday, March 25, 197^
- U -
Sir Murray gave his full support to the Rehabilitation Week which aims to develop greater awareness of the problems that face the disabled, and a better understanding of what can be done to solve them.
He praised Hong Kong’s voluntary agencies which have played such a notable part in the development and provision of rehabilitation services.
It is through their efforts and their close co-operation with the government, Sir Murray said, that the development of rehabilitation work in Hong Kong has been remarkably rapid in recent years.
Note to Editors: Copies of the full text of the Governor’s
speech are boxed for collection.
-------0---------
WATER CUT
******
Water supply to a number of premises in Kowloon City will be interrupted for five hours as from 6 a.m. on Wednesday (March 27) to facilitate a test for leakage to be carried out in the district.
The area affected by the temporary stoppage is bounded by Junction Road, Wang Tau Hom East Road, Fu Mei Street, Wang Tau Hom Estate Blocks and 25-26, and Fu Mei Street Resite Area.
-------0---------
/5........
Monday, March 25, 197^
- 5 -
TRANSPORT NEEDS OF DISABLED
Will Not Be Forgotten
******
A Transport Department official today gave an assurance that the transport needs of the disabled would not be overlooked.
The Chief Transport Officer/Public Transport, Mr. Peter Miller, said, however, that there was ”no single simple remedy to assist those less fortunate members of the community in getting about.”
Mr. Miller was speaking at the Rehabilitation Week Symposium which opened at the City Hall this morning.
He referred to the recently published report on the future needs of the elderly and handicapped, describing it as "a significant social document and blueprint for the future”.
The Transport Department, in its recommendations to the working party , laid emphasis on improving facilities for the convenience of the travelling public.
Among these, he said, were the need at the ferry concourses for more seats for waiting passengers, more handgrips particularly on the boarding ramps of vessels, and improved queueing arrangements to prevent rushing when the entry or exit gates were opened.
”In regard to buses, on some routes where there is a preponderance of elderly people it might be as well to examine the height of steps, the provision of handgrips and guard rails together with the width of entrances, exits and gangways,” Mr. Miller said.
/He pointed •••••••
Monday, March 25, 197^
- 6 -
Ho pointed out that in Britain there were special "low bridge" type vehicles with a single low step into the bottom saloon.
Mr. Miller also complained at the absence of proper queue rails to ass5st in the orderly boarding of buses, and said that more seats should be provided by the Urban Services Department at the main bus station "to improve the general appearance of what otherwise appear to be austere and functional pieces of land".
Turning to taxis, Mr. Miller said there might be some advantage by ensuring that they were specially built to provide easier means of access for passengers "many of whom find it difficult getting in and out of these cars".
In conclusion, Mr. Miller said he hoped the symposium "will have given us all food for thought and we can go away with renewed vigour and determination to ensure that the needs of the entire community are catered for in the future".
-------0---------
Monday, March 25, 197^
- 7 -
NEW RADIOS FOR FIRE SERVICES
********
Fire Services Department communications have taken a big step forward with the purchase of 50 transmitter/receiver £bts which can be used in both portable and mobile roles.
Aptly named "Porta-Mobil", the American-made sets will greatly improve the flexibility of officers commanding fire fighting operations.
The sets are replacing those at present installed in senior officers' cars and on fire appliances, which are non-portable.
Senior officers attending fire grounds have been operating small "walkie-talkie" sets which cannot be used to contact control because of their limited range.
Whenever they needed to get in touch with control, they had to break off fire fighting and use the longer range sets installed in their vehicles or on appliances at the scene. This was inconvenient if, for example, the officer was on an;upper floor of a multi-storey building. Now, they can carry the "Porta-Mobil" with them wherever they go and maintain constant two-way communications with control.
The sets weigh less than 15 lbs and can be carried by hand or strapped to an officer’s back or shoulder. They are small enough to bo fitted beneath the instrument panel of a vehicle and can be connected to a battery so as to provide additional charging. When fully charged, they give eight hours’ continuous operation.
/The "Porta-Mobil"
Monday, March 25, 197^
8
The ’Torta-Mobil" was chosen from a number of similar transmitters/receivers after several months of evaluation by Fire Services officers. They are more complicated than ordinary sets, but this is justified by their much greater flexibility. An additional 39 sets are on order.
Note to Editors: Copies of photographs of the ’^ort»«Mobil”
transmitter/receiver sets are boxed for collection.
-------0---------
MOCK OIL FIRE ON TSING YI
*********
Note to Editors: The Fire Services will carry out a
mobilisation exercise at the Mobil Oil installation on Tsing Yi Island on Wednesday (March 27) beginning at 2.30 p.m.
The exercise will assume a fire Jias broken out in tank number 10 and a total of nine appliances, including a fire boat, will be sent to the scene.
Press, television and radio representatives are invited to attend the exercise. They should meet Mr. Donald Strange of the Fire Services Department shortly before 2.15 p.m. at Kwai Chung Fire Station from where transport will be provided to take them to the exercise site.
Kwai Chung Fire Station is in Tai Lin Pai Road, junction of Kwai On Road.
------ 0---------
/9 ........
Monday, March 25, 197^
- 9 -
NEW STALLS FOR ESTATE HAWKERS 4
*******
A total of 80 stalls will be offered by ballot and auction to Yau Tong Estate hawkers, who are now plying the trade in a temporary bazaar located between Block 8 and 11.
Twenty-three stalls are now available in' the modular market at Ko Chiu Road Estate while another 57 should be ready in June when the modular market in Yau Tong Estate is completed.
The Housing Department sent out letters today inviting eligible hawkers to register with the estate office for the ballot, which will be held on April 3.
As soon as hawkers have vacated the temporary bazaar, it will be developed into a much needed recreational area for estate tenants.
On April 2, an auction will also be held at the Yau Tong Estate office for a number of meat, fish, poultry and cooked food stalls in these modular markets.
-------0---------
Monday, March 25, 1974
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
********
The following prices were realised today (Monday) at sales under the Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Rice
Grade Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (S/catty.)
China Rice Average
_ - old crop See Mow - now crop Good 2.00
S^C. Jien - nevz crop Good 1.94
Po Ngai - —
Chu Cho — —
Thai Rico 100^ Whole Good 1.91
10-15# Brokens Good 1.89
A1 Super Extra Good 1.67
A1 Super Good 1.52
Whole Glutinous Good 2.00
U.S, Rice Good 1.82
Australian Rice Good 1.80
Pakistan Rice — —
Taiwan Rice Good 1.60
/Supplies and
Monday, March 25 j 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Availability Wholesale Price
Species of Supply (8/catty).
High Low Average
Golden Thread Good 4.8 3.2 3.8
Big-Eyes Good 2.7 0.7 1.8
Squid Normal 5.0 3.2 4.0
Hair-Tails Normal 2.5 1.2 2.0
Lizard Fishes Normal 3.5 1.4 2.0
Croakers Normal 2.7 1.0 1.4
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 2.8 1.8 2.5
Melon Coat Limited 2.5 1.6 2.2
Breams Normal 4.5 3.5 4.2
Yellow Belly Good 1.6 0.7 1.3
Mackerels Good 4.8 3.5 4.0
Red Goat Fish Normal 1.0 0.6 0.7
Fork-Tail Normal 1.8 1.2 1.4
Horse-Head Good 5.7 3.5 4.0
Melon Seed Limited 2.8 2.2 2.5
Pomfrets Scarce 10.0 8.0 9.0
Garoupas Good 7.0 5.5 6.0
Yellow Croaker • Normal - 6.0 5.0 5.5
/Supplies and .«•••••
Monday, March 251 1974
Supplies.and Wholesale Prices of
Locally Produced Vegetables
Type Availability of Supply Wholesale Price
High (8/catty)
Low Average
^Lowering cabbage Limited 1.8 0.7 1.4
White cabbage Normal 1.2 0.5 0.8
Chinese lettuce. Limited 0.8 0.3 0.6
Chinese kale Normal 1.2 0.5 0.8
Spring onion Good 0.6 0.2 0.4
Spinach Normal 1.6 0.8 1.2
Water cress Normal 1.0 0.2 0.6
Leaf mustard cabbage Normal 0.8 0.25 0.5
Chinese spinach Scarce 2.2 1.2 1.6
Tomato Limited 1.8 0.8 1.4
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight)
Availability Wholesale Price
• of Supply ($/picul).
(Average)
Pork
Good 300
----------0----------
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Tuesday, March 26, 197^
CONTENTS
Page No«
Security at Kai Tak to be tightened from next month........ 1
Death sentences commuted .................................
Debate on the Appropriation Bill 197^ ends tomorrow ••••••• 5
Labour Department arranging first-aid training courses for factory hands .».............................................. &
Over 50 certificates of increase in rent reviewed by Rent Tribunal.......................................... ••••• 8
Tours of rehabilitation centres ........................... 9
Resumption of land in northern Tsuen Wan for a public housing estate .............................................. 10
Young people to be entertained on Children’s Day..........• 11
******
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time; 8,00 p.m«
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Tuesday, March 26, 197^
- 1 -
TIGHTER SECURITY AT KAI TAK Airlines To Engage Security Firm ********
A new system at Kai Tak, due to come into operation on April 1, will greatly increase the security of the airport.
Stating this today, the Airport General Manager, Mr. H.M. Johnston, said that the system would involve a check of all departing passengers together with those in transit as well as airline crews and all other personnel entering the departure and transit facilities• ,fThe intention is to create a secure area which should guard against the possibility of weapons being smuggled aboard flights,” he said. ”The system which has been evolved is very thorough, and the checks are being carried out at a point where they will be a preliminary to all other processing activities. This procedure will entail the minimum of delay because it will enable passengers to be cleared before they enter the departure lounge and therefore well before embarkation.”
He added that the operation of this system for the protection of passenger safety had been arranged by the airlines, as was common practice where routine checks and inspections were carried out elsewhere.
The airlines would employ the services of a security firm - the Hong Kong-based company of Securair Limited - to carry out the checks, the cost to each airline being determined by the number of its passengers checked.
The government could then reimburse the airlines so that, although they would be responsible for the operation, it would not, in • • effect, be a charge on their operating expenses.
/In addition,
Tuesday, March 26, 197^-
- 2 -
In addition, the government would install and maintain the equipment to be used by Securair Limited, as part of the terminal facilities.
"Clearly the financial burden of these new arrangements should not fall on the Hong Kong taxpayer at large when only a small proportion of the populace travel by air," Mr. Johnston pointed out.
"Coincident with the introduction of the new arrangements, the government has decided to increase the passenger service charge from 510 to 515 from April 1. This increase will cover the cost of the new security measures and will also contribute to the rising costs of running the airport."
Describing how the screening procedure would operate, he said that the security checkpoint would be established immediately adjacent to the main public hall in the terminal building.
Departing passengers would pass through this checkpoint before proceeding on to the immigration counters and thence to the departure » lounge.
In the checkpoint area, hand luggage would be thoroughly searched and passengers would be channelled through special metal detectors equipped to sense the presence of concealed objects.
If the metal detectors alerted the security guards, the person concerned would be asked to submit to a personal search.
Should the hand luggage be sealed, in the form of a parcel or gift package, it would be scrutinised by sophisticated X-ray equipment capable of revealing the nature of the contents.
/"The procedure
Tuesday, March 26, 197^
- 3 -
f,The procedure will be carefully explained to the passengers," said Mr. Johnston. r,They will be warned that the X-ray machine might damage camera film and magnetic tape should the necessity for its use arise.
"Otherwise there will be absolutely no risk of any kind. From experience we know that passengers will be more than willing to co-operate for the sake of their own personal safety.
f,The incidence of hijacking has reached such proportions that the passenger is worried when he does not see evidence of proper security measures for his protection."
Because of the large numbers of passengers involved, airlines Would find it necessary to restrict the permissible amount of hand baggage to a level firmly in accordance with the limits laid down in I.A.T.A. regulations.
These stated that in addition to the articles stipulated as permissible for cabin storage, such as cameras, umbrellas etc., each passenger would be allowed only one item of accompanying cabin baggage. All other baggage would have to be handed in for storage in the hold.
Duty free goods would not be affected by this restriction because they could only be collected in the departure area, once the passenger had passed through-the-checkpoint.
/Turning to
Tuesday, March 26, 197^
- 4 -
Turning to the procedure for incoming transit passengers, Mr. Johnston said that these would be subjected to similar screening arrangements on disembarkation, before entering the transit area of the terminal.
’•This means that whatever the arrangements at their points of origin, they will be thoroughly screened on their way through Hong Kong,” he pointed out.
nA great deal of interest has already been expressed by other airport authorities in the advanced type of system to be introduced here. They will be watching closely to gauge its effectiveness.0
-------0--------- r «
DEATH SENTENCES COMMUTED
********
The Governor, after taking into consideration the advice of the Executive Council has decided that the death sentences passed on September 13, 1973 on Tse Yung-tim and Lam Kwok—wah should be commuted to a term of 18 years’ imprisonment in each ease.
Tse and Lam were found guilty of the murder of Wong Fat-nip.
-------0---------
...... Z5 ........
4
4 Tuesday, March 26, 1974
- 5 -
LEGCO TO WIND UP BUDGET DEBATE
*********
The Legislative Council will wind up the debate on the Appropriation Bill 1974 tomorrow (Wednesday) when the official members will reply to the points raised by their unofficial colleagues.
The order of speakers will be as follows: Mr. John Canning, Director of Education; Mr. Li Fook-kow, Secretary for Social Services; Mr. Denys Roberts, Colonial Secretary; Mr. David Jordan, Director of Commerce and Industry; and Mr. Philip Haddon-Cave, Financial Secretary.
The hill will be considered in Committee before its third and final reading.
The question of Hong Kcng’s sterling reserves will be raised at tomorrow’s session when the Senior Unofficial Member, the Hon. Woo Pak-chuen, will ask for a statement regarding the renewal of the sterling guarantee agreement.
Mr. Woo will also query the government about its intentions regarding the future of Murray House, while the Hon. Hilton Cheong-Leen will ask what steps are being taken to combat the growing problem of triads.
The report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Ap Lei Chau oil 8p-j 11 will be tabled in Council. The Hon. James Robson, Secretary for the Environment, will comment on it.
Dr. the Hon. S.Y. Chung will make a statement on the Hong Kong Polytechnic Annual Report 1972/73 which will also be tabled at tomorrow’s session. • * *• • w • w
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r
Tuesday, March 26, 197^ ■j
- 6 -
FIRST-AID TRAINING FOR FACTORY HANDS
*********
The Labour Department’s Industrial Safety Training Centre is arranging a special expanded series of first-aid training courses to cope with an overwhelming response from industry for courses set down for the next couple of months.
The Centre, working with the St. John Ambulance Association," recently called for applications for three first-aid training courses for employees in industry.
The courses, each requiring attendance at one morning session a week for eight weeks, qualify successful candidates for recognition as first-*aid personnel under the Factories and Industrial Undertakings (First Aid in Registrable Workplaces) Regulations, the Quarries (Safety) I' *•
Regulations and the Construction Sites (Safety) Regulations.
The Centre was swamped with applications, and is now arranging seven additional courses between now and July to cope with some 300 applicants from 128 factories and 20 construction firms.
Moro sessions are being planned for another 150 applicants on the waiting list.
Assistant Commissioner of Labour Mr. David Lin today welcomed the response to the courses as an indication that employers were becoming ’■. •’ ‘1 \ . * r
more safety conscious.
/"This is •••••••
Tuesday, March 26, 197^
- 7 -
"This is the most satifying response we have ever had to these courses," he said# "I hope these employers will also be taking advantage of our other safety and accident prevention courses.
"For quite some time now industry has been faced with a severe shortage of trained first-aid personnel. I hope that this new display of awareness and co-operation from industry marks the beginning of an end of this problem.
"Under the law, an industrial proprietor must provide a qualified first-aid officer for every 100 workers he employs.
"In the case of construction sites, there must be a person trained in first aid on every site with JO or more workers. A. site with 100 or more workers must have at least two trained people on site*
"And I would remind Hong Kong’s hundreds of building contractors that the Construction Sites (Safety) Regulations come into effect on May 1 - so there’s not that much time left now for those who haven’t yet complied with the law to do so."
Tuesday, March 26, 1974
- 8 -
RENT TRIBUNAL REVIEWS CERTIFICATES OF INCREASE IN RENT *******
The independent Rent Tribunal has, since its formation, held five meetings to review certificates of increase/no increase in rent issued by the Rating and Valuation Department.
’Of the $1 certificates reviewed so far, 46 were confirmed by the Tribunal. In three cases the amount certified was increased. One of the remaining two was reduced and the other one was cancelled altogether.
Disclosing this today, a spokesman for the Rating and Valuation Department said out of- the 7,280 certificates issued only 189 applications ♦ for review had been received.
He said that further Tribunal meetings were being arranged for the near future in order to deal with the cases still outstanding.
The spokesman pointed out: ’’For each review case the department prepares a full case history together with details and plans of the concerned premises and information as to how the certified increase had been determined.” ’’Although there is no provision for representations in person by landlords or tenants,” he said, ’’any comments received are brought to the attention of the Tribunal.”
The- spokesman further pointed out that it was open to the Tribunal to question the professional officer who determined the application, call for additional evidence and, if they so wish, visit the premises.
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/9........
ih • ;
Tuesday, March 26, 197^
- 9 -
TOURS OF REHABILITATION CENTRES
********
The Social Welfare Department is one of the many organizations, welfare agencies and government departments that are participating in Rehabilitation Week currently being held in Hong Kong to enable the public to obtain a better understanding of disabled people and what is being done for them.
As such, three of its centres providing services for the handicapped are among those to which conducted tours have been arranged, mainly for students, and anyone else interested in seeing the various types of rehabilitation services being provided in Hong Kong for the disabled of the community.
The centres are the Settlement for the Severely Disabled and the World Rehabilitation Fund Day Centre, both in Kwun Tong, and the Aberdeen Rehabilitation Centre on Hong Kong Island. The tours to the first two centres will take place on Thursday (March 28) while the one to the third centre will be on Friday (March 29)•
The work that these centres are doing can also be seen in a photographic display in the exhibition now on at the City Hall Exhibition HallT Different types of products made by the handicapped at the centres are also on show to illustrate that handicapped people too, when given a chance, can be useful like anybody else.
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/10........
Tuesday, March 26, 197^
- 10 -
RESUMPTION OF LAND FOR SHING ON PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE
********
At least half of the 5,000 people living in villages in northern Tsuen Wan have agreed to the terms offered by the government to resume their land for building the Shing On Public Housing Estate. The others r are expected to do so during this week.
A spokesman for the District Office, Tsuen Wan, said today all the land-ov/ners in that area were sent a letter from the District Commissioner, Nev/ Territories, last December giving them the option to surrender their land voluntarily to the government.
,rUnder the terms of this letter after such voluntary surrender they vzould hold a land exchange entitlement enabling them to apply for new land in any layout area of the New Territories/1 he said.
The spokesman added that although the land will be reverted to the Crown on April 2, the actual clearance of the area will take place over the next few months and there is, therefore, no question of people being evicted immediately on that date.
This has been explained to representatives of people in the area and a leaflet has also been distributed giving the reasons for the clearance and in general terms the entitlements of people living and working in the area.
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/11
Tuesday, March 26, 197^
- 11 -
CELEBRATIONS FOR CHILDREN’S DAY
The Social Welfare Department’s Group and Community Work Division has organised a series of entertainment programmes for young people to celebrate Children’s Day which falls on April 4.
The programmes will be conducted in different areas through the Division’s Community Work Offices and Community Centres in conjunction with voluntary organizations operating in the districts in which they are located.
The programmes will be held on different days over the next two weeks with the first one taking place tomorrow (Wednesday)• This is a talent contest for children in the Sau-Mau Ping area, and is open to individuals or groups aged from eight to 14. The preliminaries will be held at the Sau Mau Ping South Estate Welfare Building from 10 a.m. to noon, and 2-4 p.m.
The finals will take place in the afternoon of March 30, and will be followed by a prize-giving ceremony on Thursday (April 4) at 8 o’clock in the evening.
This contest is organized by the two Community Work Offices in Sau Mau Ping together with the YMCA’s and Boys and Girls Clubs’ Association’s centres.
On Sunday (March 31) a fun fair for 3^000 children in Ngau Tau Kok area will be held at the Catholic Primary School in the district from 2 to 4.30 p.m. This is a joint effort for local children arranged by the Department’s Estate Community Work Office there and 16 welfare organizations, schools and kaifong associations.
/Also on.........
Tuesday, March 26, 197^
- 12 -
Also on the same day, the Tai Hang Tung Community Centre will be holding a children’s carnival for another 3,000 children beginning at 2 p.m. This will be held at the Community Centre in Tong Yam Street with Mr. Stephen Law, Senior Principal Social Welfare Officer who is in charge of the Group and Community Work Division, cutting a ribbon to start off the fun and games. .. •
Another series of activities including competitions in table tennis, skipping and assembling jigsaw puzzles, organized by the Ngau Tau Kok Community Work Office will be held on the weekend of April 6 and 7*
Note to Editors: You are invited to send a reporter/
photographer to cover the above events. • * • • -------------------------------o---------
Tuesday, March 26, 1974
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Dally Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
Th© folInvnng prices were realised today (Tuesday) at sales under the Rice Control Schena and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Grade Availability of Supply Vholesale Price (5/catty)
China Rice Average
„ old crop See Mew Good 2.00
- new crop
S.C.Jion - old crop Good 1.94
new crop •
Po Ilgai Good 1.63
Chu Cho *■ -
Th ai Rice Good 1.91
• Good 1.'89
10-15^ Brokcns
A1 Super Extra ••
A1 Super Good . 1.52
Thole Glutinous Good 2.00
• U.S. Rice Good 1.82
Australian Rioo Good i;8o
Pakd.atan Rice, - ■»
Taiv/an Rico Good 1.60
/Supplies and
Tuesday, March 269 197^
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Availability Wholesale Price
Species of Supply (S/catty)
High Low Average
Golden Thread Good 4.2 2.5 3.2
Big-Eyes Good 2.5 0.7 1.8
Squid Limited 5.0 3.0 4.0
Hair-Tails Good 2.4 1.0 1.8
Lizard Fishes Normal 3.2 1.2 2.0
Croakers Good 2.0 0.7 1.5
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 2.5 1.6 1.9
Melon Coat - - - -
Breams Normal 4.0 3.0 3.2
Yellow Belly Good 1.9 0.7 1.2
Mackerels Good 4.2 3.2 3.8
Red Goat Fish Normal 1.3 0.6 1.1
Fork-Tail Normal 1.7 1.2 1.5
Horse-Head Normal 5.5 3.2 4.0
Melon Seed Normal 2.7 1.8 2.0
Pomfrets Scarce 9.0 7.5 8.5
Garoupas Normal 7.5 5.5 6.5
Yellow Croaker —- —
/Supplies and
Tuesday, March 26, 197^
• * ■ • • • • Supplies and Wholesale Prices of? ■ . /■ -- • .. - Locally Produced Vegetables
Availability Wholesale Price
SVne of Supply (S/catty)
.. ' . High Low Average
Flowering cabbage Normal 1.40 0.50 1.00
White cabbage. • Normal 0.80 0.20 0.50
Chinese Lettuce' Normal. 0.80 O.JO 0.60
Chinese Kale • Noraal °’8° ’ 0.50 0.60
Spring onion ■ Good °’7° 0.20 0.50
Spinach. IIonaal %4° 0,50 1-°°
_ . Normal 0.80 ' 0.20 0.50
Water oross
T . .. Normal 0.80 0.20 0.50 . Loaf mustard cabbage
Tomato ‘ * Normal •. 1.50 0.50 .-.1.00
Chinese sninach . Scarce 2.00 1.20 1.60
Sunnlios end Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight)
Availability Wholesale Price
of_Supply (8/ picul)... v •
(Average)
Good . JOO
Pork
^0-
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Wednesday, March 27 f 1974
CONTENTS
?ag, ,N.Qf■
Government to‘help set up a Consumer Council in an attempt to prevent profiteering...................................... 1
Modification * of transport tax proposals •••••••............. 7
. i f. . .
Financial Secretary proposes the establishment of an Economic Review Committee.................................... 11
Self-discipline by finance companies suggested •••••••••••• 13
Domestic rents likely to drop further over the year •••••«• 15
Unofficial Members of Legislative Council urged not to overlook the earning power of fiscal reserves................ 18
•
Government expects to make a statement on the renewal of
agreement covering Hong Kong’s sterling reserves ...••••••• 19
Director of Commerce and Industry foresees no difficulty in obtaining adequate supplies of rice...................... 20
Steady expansion of Commerce and Industry Department •••«•• 25
Report on Apleichau oil spillage published................... 27
Government to appoint consultants to draw up a code of
practice for oil companies operating in Hong Kong ••••••••• 29
Japanese consultant submits interim report on damage to marine life by oil spill .................................... 32
Extension of trial period for legal termination of pregnancy for therapeutic reasons ..................•••••••••••••••••• 34
Replies by the Colonial Secretary to comments on the public service ....................................... 36
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
e
- 2 -
Director of Education hopes to table the White Paper on Education in the near future ............................. 38
Revised plan for developing Murray House site to be submitted to the Public Works Sub-Committee shortly ......... 40
Secretary for Social Services speaks on employment situation...................................... •........... 42
Action against triad activities being intensified.......... 44
Appropriation Bill 1974 passed its third reading in the Legislative Council today ................................... 45
Staff recruitment drives by the Polytechnic results in an increase in teaching staff................................ ^6
******
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
1
Bplease time.: 9*2Q
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 1 -
CONSUMER COUNCIL TO BE SET UP Financial Secretary Emphasises Need For Direct Consumers Representation «*«*»**«
The government is taking the initiative to help set up a Consumer Council as quickly as possible in an attempt to prevent profiteering.
Winding up the budget debate, the Financial Secretary, the Hon. Philip Haddon-Cave, announced that Executive Council’s advice would be sought within the next week as to how such a council might be established, what its role should be, how i; suouid operate, and what form government assistance should take.
Mr. Haddon-Cave noted that Hong Kong now clearly felt the need for a Consumer Council and he was sure that private individuals would have little difficulty in obtaining the support they would need. For its part, the government was ready to help such a body get off the ground "with the speed the public mood demands.”
The Financial Secretary’s personal and preliminary views were that the Governor should appoint a nucleus of a chairman and a few other members (all unofficials) whose initial task would be to advise on further membership. It should include persons with the necessary expertise as well as others able to represent directly the views of consumers.
: , /"At the.........
l i
I
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 2 -
"At the same time, these founder members might wish to advise on whether any government officers should be appointed on a personal basis, having regard to their official duties and experience," he said*
The full council having been formed, would then settle down to develop an information service on prices and evolve techniques for identifying and exposing profiteering."
To this end, the government would be prepared to make available, on a regular basis, all information on supplies and prices of various commodities collected by the Census and Statistics Department, the Commerce and Industry Department, the Urban Services Department and the Agriculture and Fisheries Department for their own purposes.
Mr. Haddon-Cave added: "The government would also be prepared to seek vote provision for an annual subvention to the council and, if the council so desired, to second government officers to enable it to get to work quickly.
"The council could act on its connb^sicns by publicity or by persuasion or by recommending action to the government.
"The government would also be happy to hear any views the council may develop as to how relations between the public and those distributors of essential commodities who are in a semi-monopolistic position (for example, the oil companies) could be improved."
Mr. Haddon-Cave was confident that with vigour and determination something could be done.
/However, he »••••*••.
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 3 -
However, he ruled out any general price controls and bulk buying arrangements for the efficiency of such measures* "We have seen the effect of such measures elsewhere - the end result is always confusion and distortion in the market and, furthermore, at a huge cost to public fund."
Profiteering
Mr* Haddon-Cave spoke at length on inflation and profiteering and concluded that profiteering was not as widespread as some would ■imagine^ Neither did he believe that its total elimination would make "any very great difference to the rate at which prices are rising," but the fact that ’profiteering* does exist at all "is a cause for considerable anger and frustration."
People tended to be more aware of ’profiteering1 in a situation of rapidly rising prices, he said, but profiteering was difficult to define.
His own interpretation was that ’profiteering’ could unambiguously occur in situations where either there is a degree of monopoly power, or consumers are unable to effectively exercise their combined influence on prices as a result of some failure in the market information process.
"In the first situation, the government has a clear obligation to redress the balance, as it were, in favour of the consumer if the government itself has been instrumental in providing any body of persons with the potential power to manipulate prices or supplies to their own advantage."
/Where there
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 4 -
Where there would seem to be scope for what would generally be described as 1profiteering,’ he went on, would be where consumers lack full market information.
He gave several examples — panic buying, with consumers putting themselves at the mercy of retailers; unreasonable rounding up of prices by wholesalers and/or retailers following upon increases in landed costs or excise duties; consumers limiting their daily shopping to a few retail outlets only; and the general tendency among consumers to assume that they would regularly have to pay more with the result that merchants take advantage by confirming this expectation and ensuring its continuance
Inferring to suggestions for regulation of essential and non-perishable commodities such as cooking oil and flour, the Financial Secretary said that in the absence of controls on supplies in areas other than rice, ,Tthe question of government action does not arise in quite the same way.”
He reiterated that there were no shortages of foodstuffs in l
Hong Kong, in the sense that consumers were unable to obtain them at the going price.
Inflation
Mr. Haddon-Cave insisted that most inflation affecting Hong Kong stemmed from outside sources, but he conceded that there was a degree of internally generated inflation which, he added, was now largely under
control'.'
/He denied
Wednesday, March 27, 1974
- 5 -
He denied that internally generated inflation was at the root of the present phenomenon of rising prices and said that ’’even the most authoritarian measures to obliterate such internal inflation as does exist would only have a modest impact on the rate at which consumer prices are rising.”
In assessing the situation, he said, attention must be mainly focussed on foodstuffs since the increase in the prices of foodstuffs accounted for 77 per cent of the total increase in the. General Consumer Price Index.
But it was in import prices that the increases had been dramatic.
In the twelve monthsup to February this year, seasonally adjusted food prices at the retail level increased by 28 per cent, while the increase for the calendar year 1973 was abous 24 per cent.
At the import level, however, the increase in 1973 was 32 per cent. In the case of rice, the increase at import level was 120 per cent, for wheat and flour it was over 50 per cent, for vegetables over 30 per cent, and in the case of pond fish (and fish preparations) and meat and meat preparations it was about 25 per cent.
”These increases are almost unbelievable, but truth is often stranger than fiction,” Mr. Haddon-Cave remarked.
/He noted
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 6 -
He noted that the exceptionally bad weather in the third quarter of 1973 had also played a significant role in pushing up prices of marine fish and.fresh vegetables, but this was followed ty a sharp decline in prices in the next quarter.
The Financial Secretary did not deny the possibility of internal inflation playing a role in the latter months of 1972 and early 1973, but he did not believe that internally generated inflation was now significantly aggravating the situation.
Mr. Haddon-Cave disputed suggestions by unofficial members that some of his budget revenue proposals were inflationary.
He stressed that Hong Kong’s tax system is non-inflationary and that his 1972 and 1973 revenue proposals were designed to relieve the cost*-price system .of tax levies which could be reckoned to be inflationary. "It should also be remembered at this point that our budgetary policy eschews deficit financing through government bond issues which are taken up by banks and accepted as eligible liquid assets."
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Wednesday, March 27, 1974
7 -
TRANSPORT TAX PROPOSALS MODIFIED
Revised Fees Effective Retrospectively From Feb. 27
*********
Some relief for motorists was announced by the Financial Secretary today when he presented a modified version of his original budget proposals for higher taxes on road users.
The effect of the revised increases will reduce by $9»5 million the yield from the original revenue proposals, and lead to a smaller estimated surplus of only $12 million instead of the $21 million surplus forecast for the coming financial year.
In the case of vehicle licences, Mr. Philip Haddon-Cave, introduced a new standard of fees for cars of all classifications by increasing the present six rates for private cars by 176 per cent.
Rounding off to the nearest $50 and maintaining a reasonable progression, the rates will be:
3 550 for cars of up to 1000 c.c.
$ 500 for cars of up to 1500 c.c.
$ 750 for cars of up to 2500 c.c.
$1,000 for cars of up to 5500 c.c.
$1^250 for cars of up to 4500 c.c.
31,500 for cars over 4500 c.c.
These new rates are expected to bring in an extra 349 million in revenue' — 35 million less than the increase from the Financial Secretary’s original proposals.
/Tfie-*new rates •••.«•
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 8 -
The new rates are effective retrospectively from 2.30 p*nu on February 27. An order to this effect was signed by the Governor this morning to replace the previous order in relation to the Financial Secretary’s original proposals.
Mr. Haddon-Cave explained that those who had renewed their vehicle licences since February 27 at higher fees than the new revised rates, would be entitled to a refund. "Those lucky enough to have renewed at lower fees will not be required to pay anymore on this occasion," he said.
In presenting his new budget proposals in the Legislative Council, Mr. Haddon-Cave flatly denied accusations by his unofficial colleagues that he was pre-empting the debate on transport policy by introducing the higher fees before publication of the Transport Green Paper.
This, he said, was never his intention. "I am only concerned to raise extra revenue in a way which makes fiscal sense and which is neutral in economic terms."
Additional revenue was required in 197^/75» he explained, and "in order to raise what was required painlessly in terms of the economy, I had to look to road users for at least two-fifths of the extra 5206 million required and a miscellany of other direct and indirect taxpayers and users of services for the other three-fifths."
/Given our
* • . •»
1 'V |U|’ .'I -I * I*
Wednesday, March 27, 1974 - 9 -
. He said that "to defer the raising of additional revenue
until after the debate or. transport policy would be too dangerous and quite illogical too for my road taxation proposals have nothing to do with transport policy and the Green Paper."
As regards public light buses, the Financial Secretary reduced his original proposed increase of 33jOOO to 32,000 to set the licence fee for this category of vehicles at 35,000. The reduced increase will mean a loss of 34 million additional revenue.
Public cars will continue to pay on the same basis as private cars, plus 330 for each seat for a passenger.
The licence fees for taxis remains at 3320 as originally proposed* This figure is achieved by doubling the fee for the driver and for each seat for a passenger to 320 and 360 respectively.
In the case of motorcycles, the Financial Secretary maintained that the pre-budget fee of 370 was unrealistically low and he considered that his original proposal to raise it to 3200 was fair.
However, he proposed to reduce it to 3175 which he considered "very reasonable, particularly as motorcyclists have the advantage of being able to park free of charge." The lower fee will mean that the additional revenue from this class of vehicle will be about 3500^000 less than under the original proposal.
/As regards
i
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- iC -
As regards goods vehicles, Mr. Haddon-Cave adhered to his original proposal to simplify the system by introducing three platforms.
In respect of endorsements of driving licences, the Financial Secretary adjusted his original proposal tc $50 for the original licence and $10 for each subsequent endorsement up to five. Thereafter
i endorsements vzould be free.
In effect, the maximum a driver would pay for a licence and its endorsements would be $100 a year. The revised proposal will yield an estimated $2 million, compared with $4 million under the Financial Secretary’s original proposal to apply the licence fee to each endorsement.
The Financial Secretary noted that there was some opposition to the Transport Advisory Council’s recommendations that monthly car park tickets should be abolished. In the circumstances, he accepted a suggestion by his unofficial colleagues that monthly passes be continued at a higher rate of $500 a month.
He also disclosed that the possibility was being considered for some form of relief for handicapped people who could not use public transport.
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Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 11 -
INTERIM REPORTS CN THE ECONOMY
Economic Review Committee To Be Set Up
.*««♦**«
The Government intends to publish interim reviews on the state of the economy during each year — probably in April, July and October, the Financial Secretary, Mr. Philip Haddon-Cave announced today.
Speaking in the resumed Budget debate in the Legislative Councilt he al so proposed the formal establishment of an Economic Review Committee whoso membership would include Unofficials and Officials.
He said that the first issue of the interim economic reviews fcr this year "is in hand" and would appear next month.
The Government, Mr. Haddon-Cave said, had been for some time keeping under constant review the economic problems of the day with the reestablishment of a central statistical department in 19^8 and the formation of an Economic Analysis Unit of the Economic Branch in 1972.
The end products of the activities of the staff concerned are rhe Monthly Digest of Statistics, the annual estimates of the gross domestic product and the annual publication known as the Economic Background to the Budget.
The Economic Background, Mr. Haddon-Cave said, "is designed to review the developments in the economy over the past year and to set the stage, so to speak, for the forecast of our economic prospects for the coming year so that the Budget can be constructed on a rational basis."
/He said .......
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 12 -
He said the annual review and the interim reviews are drafted by the Economic Analysis Unit with the help of the departments concerned^ particularly the Census and Statistics Department.
They are then vetted by a caucus of senior officers concerned with economic policy under the chairmanship of the Financial Secretary.
Mr. Haddon-Cave welcomed the association of Unofficial Members with the production of these reviews through the proposed Economic Review Committee.
The Committee, he said, would have as members four Unofficials and three Officials, including himself. Other Officials could be in attendance as required.
Ur. Haddon-Cave suggested that before any other form of consultative machinery was established, we should wait and see whether, in practice, the Committee ’’does not go a long way to meeting the wish of honourable Members to be associated at an earlier stage, and in a more intimate way,
with our studies of the economy and the evolution of economic policies’.’
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 13 -
SELF-DISCIPLINE BY FINANCE COMPANIES SUGGESTED «**«****>»
The Financial Secretary said today that any action on the question of control over the activities of finance companies "must involve a large element of voluntary association and self-policing by the companies themselves." s
Speaking in the resumed budget debate in the Legislative Council this afternoon, Mr. Haddon-Cave said this would be in contrast to the "complications involved in statutory control."
In any case, he said, we must first concentrate on the amendments to the Banking Ordinance and the Protection of Deposifors Bill.
Nevertheless, he admitted that his mind was "not closed on this question" and that he was "most anxious" to seek all available advice on the whole issue, including that of the Banking Advisory Committee.
Turning to the question of withholding tax on interest payments, the Financial Secretary said there would undoubtedly be "a significant loss of revenue" if the interest tax was abolished completely.
He doubted that the loss of revenue would be made up from other sources, mainly profits tax.
For this to happen, he said, net profits of the order of $440 mill ion would need to be generated and, given the relatively small margins made on off shore borrowing and lending transactions, a market equivalent to perhaps S1OO,OOO million would have to 1)© built up.
TTI doubt whether even the most optimistic would expect a market of this order of size to develop very quickly," he added.
/Referring to .•••••«
Wednesday; March 27, 197^
- 14 -
Referring to suggestions as an alternative that interest paid by licensed banks should not be subject to withholding tax, the Financial Secretary said that in practice this would amount to the same thing.
The reason was that "more than three quarters of our revenue from interest tax is generated from deposits with licensed banks, and, if such a concession were to be made, this proportion would naturally tend to increase."
He added that to remove withholding tax from foreign currency deposits with the licensed banks but not from Hong Kong dollar deposits, would "surely increase the risk of erosion of the Hong Kong dollar deposit base." Commenting on the argument that deposits in foreign currencies placed *
i outside Hong Kong could tend to erode the Hong Kong dollar deposit base, Mr. Haddon-Cave believed that "the remedy lies in the bank’s own hands."
If they paid competitive interest rates and reduced their margins, money could be attracted back to Hong Kong dollar deposits, even with the withholding tax, he said.
If competitive rates were paid and withholding tax were not applied, this would open up the possibility of "large external flows exercising a destabilising influence on our foreign exchange market and external trade," he addeie
On the limited moratorium on banking licences, Mr. Haddon-Cave said he was gLad to see that his "tentative thoughts on greater freedom" had generally been welcomed by Members of the Council.
This, he said, would be subject, in the case of a foreign applicant, to the question of reciprocity which was, and would remain, a part of government policy.
He explained that having established a case for accepting an application for a licence, it would only be actually granted if the applicant’s country of origin would grant a licence to a Hong Kong incorporated bank satisfying similar criteria.
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/15........
Wednesday, March 27, 1972*
- 15 -
DOMESTIC RENTS LIKELY TO DROP
Over 10,000 Domestic Units Vacant «$«***** - -
Domestic rents are likely to go down further over the year, the Financial Secretary, the Hon. Philip Haddon-Cave, forecast today.
Reviewing the property market, he said that towards the end of last year there were clear indications of a downward trend in rents for new domestic premises, particularly in the case of the more expensive type of accommodation.
’’Sale prices, too, are reportedly down by as much as 15 to 20 per cent over the year,” he added.
The Financial Secretary attributed the decline in rents to improved supply and the tighter money situation. However, supply of domestic accommodation in 1973 fell below expectation.
Vacancies in the private sector in urban areas, he went on, amounted to just over 10^000 units — the highest since 1968 having steadily arisen from a low of 2,400 at the end of 1969 to 7,000 at the end of 1972.
He pointed out, however, that the measures taken to impose full rates on vacant domestic premises from January 1 this year ’’should now be beginning to bite,” and he was fairly hopeful that ”we shall see some further downward movement in domestic rents over the year.”
In the case of retail trading premises, he went on, the position was similar for, although rents had continued on an upward course over 1973f vacancies at the beginning of this year accounted for some 1.28 mil l ion square feet of space — that is a 63 per cent increase over the year - and this figure was very nearly equal to the total space completed during the year.
/Most of ••••«••
Wednesday, March 27, 1974
- 16 -
Most of the vacant shops were located in the peripheral areas, thus tending to force down rents in these areas, but there were also reports of rents being reduced in the more central shopping areas.
”There is likely to be an ample supply of new accommodation both this year and next,” he added.
Office space in the central areas, however, was still hard to find and the supply this year was not expected to meet demand, the financial Secretary said.
’•Thus, for the time being, rents seem likely to continue on an upward course.
’•However, 1975 and 1976 look to be record years with the prospect of some seven million square feet becoming available.
’’Landlords who press too hard for large rent increases now may, therefore, well find the position reversed in a year’s time, particularly as much of the space now being built will be in the low-rental areas which, if rents in the central districts of the urban area continue to increase, will begin to look more and more attractive,” he said.
Turning to flatted factories, Mr. Haddon-Cave said that, while space vacant in flatted factories, at 2.24 million square feet, was rather less than last year, ’’there seems to be more than sufficient aval 1 able to meet demand and there are clear indications that rents in the less popular industrial areas are coming down.”
/Estimates of
Wednesday, March 27, 197^ ।
- 17 -
Estimates of supply this year and in 1975 and 197$ indicate that sufficient is planned to meet the probable demand although, of course, in this sector, demand is dependent very much on the state of the economy generally, he added.
Referring to suggestions by unofficial members for rent controls in the business sector, Mr. Haddon-Cave said: ,rMy reading of the situation does not lead me to conclude that there is a need for such controls at this time.
”Market forces seem likely to have the effect generally of containing inflationary trends and, in certain areas, rentals may well take a downward turn.”
He added that the government had long set itself against restricting rents below market levels ’’and to provide for statutory security of tenure without rent control would be a waste of time.”
The Financial Secretary was also against setting up a Fair Rents Tribunal which he argued would only be one facet of the administrative machinery necessary if measures were taken to control rents of non-residential premises.
Although the word ’fair’ was used in the title, Mr. Haddon-Cave was certain that advocates of such controls were after a restriction of rents below market levels.
,TDctermining market rents for non-residential premises would be difficult enough without trying to decide on fair rents and the legion of valuers and other experts likely to be needed to administer any such measures would be quite beyond our resources at the present time, even if the idea was sound, which it is not,” he said.
-------0--------- /tf...................
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 18 ~
EARNING POWER OF FISCAL RESERVES NOT TO BE OVERLOOKED *******
The Financial Secretary caid today that Hong Kong's fiscal reservos were ”an end in themselves to seme extent” and called on Unofficials ”not to overlook the earning power of our reserves J
Replying to points raised by Unofficials in the Budget debate, Mr. Haddon-Cave told the Legislative Council that the reserves now only represented 53 per cent of Hong Kong’s much larger expenditure budget# Moreover, he said that ”we live in a world of unforeseen contingencies• ’ ’
On the earning power of our reserves, the Financial Secretary said in 197^75 they would bring Ho ig Kong S3&0 million. This representer: ’the equivalent of the yield from more than four extra percentage points on tiie standard rate of profits tax.”
Mr« Haddon-Cave als"» reminded Unofficials that one of the considerations in his tax relief measures in 19?2 and 1973 concerned ’’the way in which the present generation of taxf^yers has contributed in recent years to the financial resources available for spending in the future.”
He noted that these tax relief measures amounted in all to $163 million a year. In his Budget speech last month, the Financial Secretary estimated that Hong Kong's available fiscal reserves at the end of the current financial* year would amount to 83,066 million.
This represents only 53 per cent of estimated expenditure in 19'A' 75 or 56 per cent of the unspent balance of the approved Public Woi-ks Non?* Recurrent projects at April 1 this year. • •• e • •
--------0 -------- /'19.................
Wednesday, March 2?, 197^
- 19 -
HONG KONG’S STERLING RESERVES
Statement On Renewal Of Agreement To Be Made By Government
******
The government is not in a position to make a statement at this time on the renewal of the agreement covering Hong Kongfs sterling reserves, the Financial Secretary said today.
He said the reason was that the technical documents relating to the proposed extension of the present arrangement to the end of this year, announced by Her Majesty Treasury on March 15 last, had not yet arrived in Hong Kong.
Mr. Philip Haddon-Cave was replying to a question by the Hon.
P.O. Woo who asked for a government statement on the renewal of the agreement covering Hong Kong’s sterling reserves.
The Tinancial Secretary said: ’’Clearly, these documents must be studied carefully and Executive Council consulted before the government can come to a view.”
However, he assured Mr. Woo that he would make a statement to the Legislative Council as soon as he was in a position to do so.
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/20
Wednesday, March 27, 1974
- 20 -
NO DIFFICULTY OVER OBTAINING RICE SUPPLIES
Market Forecasts Good For 1974
*******
The Director of Commerce and Industry, Mr. David Jordan, assured the Legislative Council today that he did not foresee any difficulty in obtaining adequate supplies of rice to meet Hong Kong’s needs.
Imports are coming in at a satisfactory rate, he said, and market forecasts for 1974 ’’were good and they remain good.”
Mr. Jordan stressed that the prime function of the rice control scheme, which had worked remarkably well during the 19 years it has been in operation, was to ensure an adequate supply of rice.
”Despite fluctuating harvests in Asia and famine from time to time in many areas during this period, Hong Kong has never had to resort to rice rationing nor has there been, to my knowledge, any time at which our stockholding was materially below the basic reserve figure,” he said.
Mr. Jordan pointed out that the rice control scheme was not devised to control prices, but only to provide a cushion against violent fluctuations.
’’The rice control scheme cannot insulate the consumer from the world — retail prices of rice must reflect the price movement in the international market for rice,” Mr. Jordan said. » -
”At the same time, the public is understandably concerned about the possibility of deliberate manipulation of stocks, supplies and prices by importers, wholesalers or retailers within the rice trade, using the Rice Cbntrol Scheme in order to squeeze unreasonably high profits from the consumer.
/’’They have
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 21 -
"They have a right to be concerned and I have a responsibility to make sure that this does not happen or that if it does — if some malpractice arises — that it is quickly stopped."
Mr. Jordan said that in the past it had not been necessary to try to establish maximum prices.
The present problem with prices however, was much more serious than earlier ones. Rice prices across the world have increased during the past year continuously and massively.
Despite good harvests and the prospect of very good crops again this year, prices were likely to continue to rise. Exporting countries face massively increased bills for imported oils and oil-based products and must try to earn more from their exports to balance their accounts. World-wide inflation has its effect on every commodity.
Mr. Jordan continued: ’ I cannot see any € rly end, therefore, to the upward movement of rice prices and we must plan on the basis that the trend will continue for some time. The opportunity for speculation is, of course, greater in a rising market.
"I should be failing in my duty to the public if I did not recognise this fact and accept that a Government-administered rice control scheme must protect the public from malpractices of any kind.
"To increase the supply to the market is not enough in these unusual circumstances: I must also be able to influence prices to the consumer.
That means an internal system by which I can control the maximum mark-up taken by the importer, wholesaler and retailer.
/"It also
Wednesday, March 271 197^
- 22 -
"It also means that I must have the most comprehensive advice from the trade and from the public about supplies and prices. Finally it moans that I must be able to monitor the results of any controls I impose and ensure that people who break the rules are penalised. It goes without saying that any such controls should be dismantled as soon as possible
Hr. Jordan said that he had come to the conclusion that his authority to influence supplies on the way to the consumer must be extended to wholesalers if he was to prevent this section of the trade from hoarding and anticipating price increases.
He proposed therefore to seek some amendment to the Reserved Commodities Regulations.
"As far as the retailers are concerned, I hope that we can maintain a sufficiently strong influence on their prices by ensuring adequate supplies to them on the one hand and through the direct retail scheme on the other," ho said.
Mr. Jordan said that in recent months, and despite a fully adequate supply of rice to the market, he had been aware of temporary shortages occurring from time to time at the consumer end of the trade.
These shortages were caused by the expectation within the trade of retail price increases, as one supplier or another announced increases in prices.
The shortages were artificial and some of them were undoubtedly contrived in order that people holding stocks of rice at all levels of the trade could profit from higher prices. Until recently, however, this sort of thing had only a slight effect on trade and prices.
/Towards the •••••••
.k
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 23 -
Towards the end of February, however, the situation deteriorated sharply.
Mr. Jordan continued: "Everyone in the trade was aware that prices must soon be increased again and many were trying to take advantage of this situation, while blaming the artificial shortage they created on the fact that I had reduced the import quota for the first quarter of the year.
"It was, of course, well known to the trade that I had done this to reduce our stockpile from the unnecessarily high level it had reached at the end of 1973.11
Mr. Jordan said that a number of measures were taken with the object of providing an effective damper on speculation and price manipulation.
"In taking these measures I have been less concerned with proving who is the guilty party than with establishing a system which will ensure that the malpractices do not recur," he said.
To this end, a Rice Advisory Committee had been established with representatives of all sectors of the trade and officials from the Commerce and Industry Department. Mr. Jordan said that he expected the committee to be able to pinpoint the problems, suggest solutions and secure the support and understanding of each sector of the trade.
"In order to ensure that the public shall have access to rice of specified qualities and weights and at reasonable prices — by which I mean prices that are reasonable in relation to import costs —* we have extended and re-organised a scheme under which major retail outlets, particularly those willing to sell packaged rice, can register with the Commerce and Industry Department to buy rice directly from importers," he said.
/Ihe intention •••••••
i
Wednesday, March 27, 1974
-- 24 -
The intention was to expand this scheme as far as is necessary to establish a fair price outlet in every district.
Another scheme which has been revived relates to the supply of rice direct from importers to large businesses. This has been in existence on a small scale for many years.
nWe are now working out the ground rules for a permanent system and this scheme too has considerable potential for ensuring supplies to consumer at fair prices,” added Mr. Jordan.
He said that there were other measures open to him within the provisions of the legal framework for the present scheme and he would not hesitate to use these powers as and when necessary.
-------0---------
Wedneday, March 27, 197^
- 25 -
STEADY EXPANSION OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT *»**»**«*
The Director of Commerce and Industry, Mr. David Jordan, today replied in the Legislative Council to issues raised by Unofficial Members on the staff resources and organisation of the department.
Pointing out that the department has expanded steadily over the years, he said that during the past year it had established a new Industrial Promotion Branch and set up a new Trade Division, whose responsibilities take in certification and licensing and the Trade Investigation Bureau.
Mr. Jordan agreed, however, that the department’s responsibilities were tending to increase rather faster than its establishment, particularly at senior management levels. ”1 had,” he said, ’’already submitted my proposals for a fairly radical re-organisation and strengthening of the department.”
Mr. Jordan said that Mr. James Wu also had suggested that the Commerce and Industry Department should be up-graded and enlarged and additionally staffed with people possessing industrial experience and technological expertise to help promote industrial development.
, ■ f
He said he would like to discuss this with Mr. Wu, but he would be wary of getting very far into the direct promotion of industrial development.
’*The government’s responsibility is, I think, rather to create and foster an environment in which industrial development can proccod rather than directly to promote that development itself,” he continued.
/’’Our industrial......
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 26 -
”Our industrial land policy, for instance, must be designed to facilitate that development* Our establishment of the Polytechnic and technical institutes are another example.”
”But wherever possible I believe we should continue to work with or through the private sector and the other institutions* We have a very wide network of relationships that enables us to so.”
Ilr. Jordan also commented on Mr. Q.W. Lee's proposal that the Trade Development Council should, among other things, devote more attention to securing better and cheaper sources of raw materials, machinery and so on for our steadily expanding industries.
He said that the Council was ”on to this already,” and a series of buying missions was included in its programme announced at the beginning of this year.
In addition, the network of T.D.C. offices around the world, and the experience of the T.D.C. officers concerned, have already proved valuable in finding additional sources of raw materials and in assessing supply conditions and possibilities.
,!I have no doubt that this aspect of the T.D.C*. rs work will increase as the circumstances require,” he added.
--------0----------
X
Wednesday, March 27, 197^ '
- 27 -
OIL SPILLAGE REPORT PUBLISHED
Recommendations Made To Prevent Re-occurrence
**»«»** x
The Commission of Inquiry into the Apleichau Oil Spill has recommended measures to ensure against a repetition of the leal cage that occurred on November 8 last year.
In its report, the Commission concludes that the immediate cause of the spill was a rupture in the plating of a tank in the Shell storage depot. This took place when the tank was being filled with heavy diesel fuel from a tanker berthed at the nearby jetty.
The Commission found that the rupture resulted from failure of the foundation, due to excessive settlement of the ground surface immediately underlying the bottom plating of the tank.
At the time of the incident, a sluice gate in the bund surrounding
Ac the area, controlling a rainwater drainage outlet to the sea, was left epen despite instructions that it should normally remain closed.
Although the gate was lowered to close this outlet before the oil reached it, the design was such that the operator was not aware - unril too late - that it had jammed in descent.
Before action could be taken to prevent further loss through this outlet, by blocking it with a canvas sheet and bags of cement, an estimated 1,000 to 2,000 tons of oil escaped via a separator unit to the sea.
In addition, some 5,000 tons of oil sank through the floor of the enclosed tank area into the subsoil. I¥om there an amount impossible to estimate subsequently seeped into the sea.
/The Commission ......
i
1
*>
Wednesday, March 27 9 1974 - 28 -
The Commission found fault with the design of the sluice gate, with the decision to leave it open despite instructions to the contrary, and with the conditions of the ground, which should not have al1 owed seepage into the subsoil.
Among its recommendations is a requirement for adequate investigation of the underlying soil strata before construction of any major oil storage installation.
The report also recommends the adoption of suitable materi als and construction methods to ensure that storage grounds are impervious to the flow of liquids they are designed to contain, pointing out that regular inspections should be conducted for this purpose.
Regular settlement records should be taken around the periphery of each storage tank so that remedial action is taken as soon as defects are detected.
In respect of the sluice gate, the report calls for adequately designed gate valves, normally kept in the fully closed position, to control rainwater drainage through the bund wall, and urges regular inspections to maintain them in good working order.
The report recommends no changes in the existing legislation governing oil storage. It states that as licensing authority, the Director of Fire Services already exercises sufficient control with regard to fire risks.
It also finds that the necessary expertise to construct oil storage facilities to internationally prescribed standards is mainly avail able within international oil companies’, which are usually sufficiently responsible organisations equipped to install and operate such facilities.
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/29........
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 29 -
CODE OF PRACTICE FOR OIL COMPANIES
.To Be Drawn-Up-By Consultants
*********
The Government plans to appoint consultants to draw up a code of practice for oil companies operating in Hong Kong.
This was announced in the Legislative Council today by the Secretary for Environment, Mr. James Robson, when he tabled the report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Apleichau Oil Spill.
Mr. Robson said that approval of funds for this purpose would be sought from the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council.
He added that a decision would be taken in the light of the consultants’ recommendations as to whether oil storage installations should be brought under closer government scrutiny and, if so, how the i ■ '.j
control should be exercised.
Although the Commission had recommended no changes in the existing legislation and system of control, the government felt it should introduce some degree of control in view of the risks involved and the seriousness » of a further oil spill.
Commenting on the "prompt and efficient manner" in which government departments reacted to the Apleichau incident on November 8, 19731 Mr. Robson said this had indicated that the existing machinery was adequate to deal with any major oil spill in Hong Kong waters. ;
Nevertheless, in the light of experience gained from the exercise, • • «* » • . .
the machinery would be modified and strengthened.
/Orders had
Wednesday, March 27, 1975
-30-
Orders had already been placed for the purchase of additional equipment and resources recommended by SCOOP (the code name of the Special Sub-Committee of the Port Executive Committee on Oil Pollution). The cost of these additional facilities would be about $850,000.
The contingency plan under which this machinery operated had been considered in detail by all concerned and a new plan had been issued.
Mr. Robson said that the clean-up operation which followed the Apleichau spill was the largest ever undertaken in Hong Kong waters. Conducted by the Marine Department, with substantial assistance from the Shell Company, it dealt with a spillage estimated at between 2,000 to 4,000 tons of oil.
■ x- • ;• ,•?
By far the greater part of the spill was cleaned up within 10 days, and thanks to favourable weather conditions, major pollution of the main beaches on the south side of Hong Kong Island did not occur.
A bill amounting to $1.15 million, to cover the expenses incurred by the government in this operation, had been sent to the Shell Company for settlement.
Under the auspices of the New Territories Administration and the Home Affairs Department, agreement had been reached between the Shell Company and the fish farmers of Picnic Bay and Aberdeen Harbour, involving payment of some $6 million for the losses suffered by the fish farmers.
/In conclusion, •••••
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
In conclusion, Mr. Robson said that the Apleichau oil spill had been ”d timely lesson for us all”, especially in the light of proposals for more oil storage farms and the possibility of potentially polluting /
industries, such as refinery and petrochemical plants.
flWe escaped heavy pollution on this occasion by a combination of favourable weather conditions and the very efficient way in which all the government departments involved, ably assisted by the Shell Company, tackled their various jobs,’* he commented.
"I take this opportunity of thanking them publicly for their-efforts, confident that with the experience they have in dealing with oil spills, and the additional equipment, they need, they will be ready to deal with any incident in the future.”
Wednesday, March 27t 1974
- 32 ~
INTERIM REPORT ON DAMAGE TO MARINE LIFE BY OIL SPILL
Submitted By Consultant
***•««,
Dr. Hiroshi Tokuda, the Japanese consultant commissioned to examine the damage to marine life resulting from the spill, has submitted his interim report.
On Dr. Tokuda’s recommendation, further research is being conducted by the Agriculture and Fisheries, Department into the long-term effects of the spill on marine life in surrounding waters.
< •' ''
Commenting on Dr. Tokuda’s report, a Government spokesman said today: ”As summer approaches, oceanographic conditions will change and it may be anticipated that more subtle and longer term effects may make their appearance.”
Dr. Tokuda noted a rapid disappearance of oil from the sea surface in the weeks following the spillage last November. This was probably due to the sinking action of the emulsifiers used in the clean-up operation, facilitated by the seasonal change in water conditions which dispersed the thermal layer formations. *
”What is significant is that the superficial disappearance of the oil could well be'more apparent than real," remarked the spokesman. ’’Until there has been an adequate exchange with oceanic waters there could still be inherent - although not dramatic - local effects."
/It was •••••••
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 33 -
It was found that the type of oil involved in the spill was particularly toxic to marine life. The common cause of fish death in such spills, resulting from adherence of oil to the gill filaments, was rarely the fatal factor associated with the Apleichau spill. This would indicate that the fish were actually poisoned, either by ingestion or contact with dissolved toxants.
,rDr. Tokuda’s study produced considerable evidence of the damaging effects of the oil on numerous marine species in the area," said the spokesman. "This was sufficient to indicate a serious upset in the ecological system. The plankton community was di rus w-GajLxy affected, particularly in the early period. The absence of fish eggs and larva in the samples he obtained must also be attributed to pollutants.
"There are therefore valid reasons to assume that propogation of some species, including important groups of commercial fish normally utilising this area for breeding and nursery grounds, will be reduced as a result of the spill."
The spokesman said that follow—up surveys were still continuing in the aftermath of the oil spill. These- included weekly hydrographical investigations in East Lamma Channel and Picnic Bay, to monitor the declining levels of pollution and obtain plankton samples.
Weekly trawling operations were also being conducted at either end of East Lamma Channel, to asses possible effects of pollution on the distribution and behaviour ®f natural fish stock.
In addition, daily sample checks were taken of the cultured fish stock to determine the degree of tainting and the speed of recovery, together with weekly checks of the invertebrate fauna to establish the time required for recolonisation of selected habitats.
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- -
LEGAL TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY FOR THERAPEUTIC REASONS
Trial Period To Be Extended For Two Years
******
The Hon, Garth Thornton, Acting Attorney General, today proposed in the Legislative Council that the trial period of that portion of the Offences Against the Person Ordinance relating to the legal termination of pregnancy for therapeutic reasons, ending at the end of this month, be extended for a further two years from that date.
He explained that the Hon. Director of Medical and Health Services had supported a longer trial period for further analysis of information on such matters, as age, social-economic status, the family size of the women concerned, the duration of pregnancy prior to termination, the medical conditions leading to the doctors* decision to operate, and the numbers of women subsequently opting for sterilisation.
If the proposed two-year extension of the legislation were accepted, the issue would be reviewed early in 197& "in the light of fuller information extending over a more meaningful period."
This was a reference to the regulations passed by the Legislative Council for a trial period two years ago authorising termination of pregnancy for therapeutic reasons, subject to the Director of Medical and Health Services keeping "a close watch on its operation."
Mr. Thornton said that to enable the Director of Medical and Health Services to undertake such a watch, legislation was enacted requiring medical practitioners to provide him with certified information regarding all cases in which pregnancies had been terminated for therapeutic reasons.
/The Acting
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 35 -
The Acting Attorney General continued: ”It appears from the certificates sent to the Director in 1973 that the total of pregnancies i terminated in that year was 184.”
He felt it was too early to draw conclusions from such a figure, taken from one 12-month period only, but ’’clearly it is not large, and does not suggest that there has been abuse of the legislation.” • *■
Mr. Thornton told the Council that because the figure was smal T, and the certificates had been coming in for a little more than a year, the Government considered that a longer trial period was desirable — because it would enable firmer conclusions to be drawn about the way the law was operating, and its value and effectiveness.
The Acting Attorney General emphasised that legislation enacted two years ago had not been intended to legalise abortion in any general way. The purpose had been, and remained, a limited one — to do no more than define the terms under which doctors could undertake a therapeutic termination of pregnancy in certain specified circumstances, and in government, or approved, hospitals or clinics.
-------0---------
/%.....
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 36 -
REVIEW OF CIVIL SERVICE SALARIES Back-Dating Difficult To Avoid *********
The Colonial Secretary, the Hon. Denys Roberts, today replied to comments on the public service made by his unofficial colleagues during the resumed Budget debate a fortnight ago.
On a. suggestion that no back-pay should be given when civil service salaries are reviewed, he explained that an important factor, which must be taken into account in any review of civil service salaries, is the need to ensure that they do not lead the private sector.
“Therefore, the usual practice is to collect information on the salaries payable in private businesses at a particular date," Mr. Roberts said.
“It therefore seems fair that this date should be the effective one for changes made in public service salaries."
The Colonial Secretary added that although he agrees that the
• . ' — -• .. <
payment of arrears for long periods is undesirable, some “back-dating is
✓ • • • . ■ unavoidable.”
Mr. Roberts referred to another suggestion that the government consider pro-engagement courses for various grades in the civil service, in order to find out if applicants are of the right material.
He pointed out that at present there are several student grades in the public service which serve the functions his unofficial colleague has in mind.
But he.added that the government will investigate the possibility of establishing further grades of this nature when the opportunity arises.
/On the ••••••••
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
On the question of promotion, the Colonial Secretary said: "There is a constant danger, in any large organisation, that a practice will grow up of promoting the next most senior person, though it must be admitted that this method is popular with many employees, who see merit in certainty of advancement.
"We must seek to strike a proper balance between promotion which gives too much weight to seniority and the.risk of advancing officers to positions of responsibility before they have the experience and judgement to occupy them successfully."
Mr. Roberts agreed with his unofficial colleague that the government should build and own its own accommodation, in preference to leasing.
But he added that the government is likely to have to meet a part of its requirements by leasing, sometimes because a need arises for accommodation in a new location, and sometimes because there is a considerable lag between established demand and the completion of the buildings required to meet it.
Touching on the suggestion that the Colonial Secretary should require a'report to be submitted to him on any meeting which lasts over 1)4 hours, in the hope that this practice will expose some slow moving and inefficient areas of the government, Mr. Roberts said this idea has attractions. ■
But ho pointed out that each of the two previous Council meetings lasted more than two hours.
"Perhaps this illustrates the fact that quantity does not necessarily involve a sacrifice of quality, "Jie added. --------------------------------0--------- /38..............................................................
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
- 38 -
PREPARATORY WORK ON EDUCATION WHITE PAPER
********
A good deal of preparatory work has been done for the proposed White Paper on Education, Mr. John Canning, Director of Education, said today.
Speaking in the resumed debate on the Budget in the Legislative Council, Mr. Canning said that when the advice of the Board of Education has been received "the finalisation of the draft White Paper should not be long delayed."
The next stage is that the draft White Paper will be considered by the Governor in Council followed by the tabling of the final version in the Legislative Council where it will be debated.
"I hope this process will not be too long and that the resultant policy will indicate clearly the direction in which secondary education should move during the next decade,” Mr. Canning said.
It was the Director’s firm belief that the procedure adopted to arrive at future expansion policies ”has been perfectly sensible., perfectly proper and suited to the needs, aspirations and wishes of the people of Hong Kong.
The invitation to the community to become involved in the decision making process has proved successful and although the process is somewhat lengthy it has proved very well worthwhile.”
/He then .......
Wednesday, March 27« 197^
- 39 -
He then referred to Mr. Wilson Wang’s request that urgent attention be given to alleviating the anxiety facing parents of children in Primary 6 over the future prospects of their children’s education after this summer; and Mr. Wang’s argument for maximising the usage of present facilities so as to achieve the highest enrolment possible within existing facilities.
In reply, Mr. Canning said: ”1 do not wish to comment too closely on this suggestion or indeed other suggestions that have been made on the Green Paper on education.
”It would not be proper to do so, as I may be accused of pre-empting the discussions on the paper I shall shortly be presenting to the Board of Education.”
As far as this year is concerned, the Director said, ’’there are difficulties in the way of formulating new policies regarding entry to secondary schools to be implemented from September.”
But he emphasised that plans for the expansion of secondary education up to 1976 in accordance with existing policy will, in any event, take place.
Pointing out that secondary expansion is at the cross-roads, Mr. Canning said that it would be imprudent to turn in any one particular direction without a careful examination of the long-term effects on our children’s future.
’’This examination is being carried out as fast as possible but many factors, not the least where the qualified teachers or where the money to finance the massive expansion would come from, have to be taken into account.”
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/4O........
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
REVISED PLAN FOR DEVELOPING MURRAY HOUSE SITE
A revised plan for the development of a large car park, government offices and the new Supreme Court on the present site of Murray House, is expected to be submitted shortly to the Public Works Sub-Committee.
The Secretary for the Environment, the Hon. James Robson today told Legislative Council that for the development of the complex, Murray House must "either be incorporated in the design of the proposed complex, dismantled and re-erected elsewhere, or demolished."
He was replying to a question from the Hon. Woo Pak-chuen on whether government has any plans for the future of Murray House.
Mr. Robson explained that due to the attractive form and details of the building, considerable thought had been given to its preservation.
"If the building is to be preserved’fhe said, "the sensible course of action would be to dismantle and re-establish it with suitable reinforcememt on another site."
But the cost involved in the rebuilding process would amount to some $6.5 million, and .any reasonable central site capable of accommodating Murray House would have a value of at least S4O to $50 million.
With regard to an open space site, the Secretary for the Environment said "the Urban Council has advised Government that it should not support such a proposal as it would mean alienating open space already in short supply in the■urban area•"
/In addition,
Wednesday* March 27, 197^
- 41 -
In addition, apart from expensive maintenance, the Director of Public Works had advised that there is a danger of structural failure of the building, particularly in typhoons or while engineering works are proceeding in the area.
Mr. Robson said Government had come to the reluctant conclusion that !runless any private benefactor comes forward with a suitable scheme and site for its reconstruction, Murray House will have to be demolished as soon as practicable in order not to impede the development of the New Supreme Court Building. "
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/42........
Wednesday, March 279 197^
- 42 -
INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYMENT FOR LAST QUARTER OF 1973 Highest On Record
The Secretary for Social Services, the Hon. Li Fook-kow, told . r •
the Legislative Council today there was little evidence to support a contention that, since the oil crisis, there had been an increasing level of unemployment and under-employment in Hong Kong.
He was commenting on the concern over the employment situation expressed by the Hon. Hilton Cheong-Leen during the resumed Budget debate two weeks ago.
Although there was no system for actually registering those who were under-employed or unemployed, Mr. Li said, there were a number of reasonably reliable indicators of the situation.
He said: ’’One of these is the number of persons actually in employment in industrial undertakings, and the returns for the quarter ending December 197? styoiyed industrial employment at the highest level ever recorded. ’’Another guideline is the Public Assistance statistics; these show that the number of new Public Assistance cases has tended to decline slightly in recent months.”
Mr. Li said families of unemployed people might be helped under the scheme while the individual was automatically referred to the Employment Service of the Labour Department. However, there had been no increase in the numbers referred from this or other sources such as the City District Officers.
/He emphasised, .......
Wednesday, March 279 19?4
- -
He emphasised, however, that the employment situation could change and it could change quickly.
Mr. Li agreed with Mr. Cheong-Leen that the Government should keep a close watch on the situation and he assured his Unofficial colleagues that steps were being taken where necessary to improve co-ordination between departments in publicising the Employment Services of the Labour Department.
/44........
4
Wednesday, March 27, 19?4
- 44 -
ACTION AGAINST TRIAD ACTIVITIES INTENSIFIED
At the Legislative Council today, the Secretary for Security, the Hon. L.M. Davies, outlined both short term and long term measures in dealing with triad activities.
He was answering a question from the Hon. Hilton Cheong-Leon who asked: "What new steps are being taken to combat the growing triad menace over which the public are now so widely concerne:
The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Davies said, had impressed upon him the fact that there was no immediate, short term full or new solution to the problem.
However, he said the level of counter action against such criminal elements was being increased.
"In addition," Mr. Davies said, "the Commissioner is conducting an examination of the structure of CID with the object of improving crime prevention methods.
"Such changes which will be implemented shortly are aimed at improving the floor of criminal intelligence, with particular emphasis on triad type of activity, the strengthening of the Triad Society Bureau and increased disruptive effort against unlawful gangs based on more intimate knowledge of their activities."
He pointed out that the effect of counter gang action by the police was illustrated by the numbers of people prosecuted for unlawful society offences.
/The prosecution
Wednesday, March 27, 1974
- 45 -
4
The prosecution figure for 1972 was 836 and it rose to 1,146 last year# By the end of February this year, another 284 had been prosecuted.
In the long term, he said the Education, Home Affiars and the Social Welfare Departments, amongst others, would play an important role in the guidance of youth to try to ensure that they would not become involved with the criminal elements of society.
Mr. Davies stressed that increased public participation with, the police in combating the activities of triads would have a most beneficial effect, f . 4
J -------0---------
APPROPRIATION BILL 1974 PASSED
********
The Appropriation Bill 1974 completed its committee stage and third reading and was passed into law at this afternoon’s sitting of the Legislative Council.
Five other bills also had their third readings and passed the committee stage to become law.
They are the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill 1974, the Quarantine and Prevention of Disease (Amendment) Bill 1974; the Landlord and, Tonant (Consolidation) (Amendment) Bill 1974, the Employment (Amendment) Bill 1974 and the Workmen’s Compensation (Amendment) Bill 1974.
-------0--------- /46...................
Wednesday, March 27, 1974
46
HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC FIRST ANNUAL REPORT TABLED
*******
Staffing is one of the most critical factors in the development of the Polytechnic, Dr. the Hon. Chung Sze-yuen said today.
In tabling the First Annual Report of the Polytechnic for the academic year 1972/73 in the Legislative Council, he said: ”In order to ensure that the Polytechnic will have the necessary qualified teaching manpower in time to carry out its academic development, two major recruitment drives were mounted, on a worldwide scale, in late 1972 and early 1973»n
By the end of the year under review, Dr. Chung said, the number of teaching staff in post had risen from 137 to 180 and offers of appointment had been made to a further 49.
He said that during the year under review two major planning exercises were carried out, the first being the preparation of the Academic and Administrative Development Plan for the three immediate years —- 1973 to 1976.
The second was the Building Development Plan for the temporary accommodation up to 1976/77 and for a permanent campus to cater for 8,000 full-time day students and 20,000 part-time evening students.
Dr. Chung also acknowledged a grant of £300,000 sterling from H.M. Government to the institute for the provision of library books and equipment of the Learning Resources Centre and for equipping the engineering workshops and laboratories.
He expressed the hope that other governments and large international companies will follow this ’’good example” and make contributions either in money or in kind to the Polytechnic which will be one of the most important institutions for fostering industrial, commercial and economic development in the future of Hong Kong.
-------0---------
Wednesday, March 27, 197^
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
Tho following prices wore realised today (’Wednesday) at sales under tho Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Supplies Grado China Rico „ old crop Seo »ow - new crop and Wholesale Prices of Rice Availability of Supply Good Wholesale Price (8/catty) ___
Average 2.00
S.C.Jion - old crop new crop Good 1.94
Po Ugai •• ••
Chu Clio
Th ai Rico 1O(X'T Vholo Good 1.91
10-15/0 Brokens Good 1.89
A1 Super Extra *•
A1 Supor Good
Wholo Glutinous Good 2.00
• U.S> Rico Good 1.82
Australian Rioo Good -r.80
Paldstan Rico •M
Taiwan Rico , T •A
/Supplies and
Wednesday, March 27, 197*>
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Availability Wholesale Price
Species of Supply (8/catty)
High Low •• Average
Golden Thread Good 3.7 2.5 3.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.8 0.8 1.8
Squid Normal 5.5 3.2 4.5
Good 2.3 1.0 1.6
Hair-Tails
Lizard Fishes Normal 3.4 1.3 2.4
Croakers Normal 1.5 0.8 1.4
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 2.4 1.8 2.2
Melon Coat •• •• •»
• Normal 3.5 2.5 3.2-
Breams
Yellow Belly •Good 1.5 0.7 1.0
Good 3.5 2.8 ‘ 3.2-.
Mackerels i Good 1.6 p.6 1.0
Rod Goat Fish Normal 1.8 1.0 1.4
Fork-Tail Good 5-5 3-5 4.0
Horso-Hoad Limited 3.5 1.7 2.8
Melon Seed 10.0
Scarce 11*0 8.5
Pornfrets Normal 7.2 5.5 6.5
Garoupas • •* •A
Yellow Croaker •* •
4* • • • ■ •
/Supplies and •
Wednesday, \ rrch 197^
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of
Locally Produced Vegetables
Type Availability P? SupEjj Wholesale Price (S/catty)
S1& Low Average
Flowering cabbage Limited 1.6 0o8 1.2
White cabbage Normal 1.0 0.3 0.8
Chinese Lettuce Normal. 0.8 0.3 o.6
Chinese Kale Limited 1.0 0.5 o.8
Spring onion Good 0.8 0.2 o.5
Spinach I imited 1.5 0.6 1.2
Water cross Normal 1.0 0.2 0.7
Leaf mustard cabbage Normal 0.7 0.2 0.5
Tomato Cl i inc so Sninnch Normal Scarce 1.6 2.0 0.6 1.0 1.2 1.6
Suwlios and Wholesale Pricee of Pork (Live weight)
Availability of Supply Wholesale Price ( ft/ picul).
• (Average)
Pork Good . 300
- - 0 - -
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Thursday, March 28, 1974
CONTENTS
Page No.
McKinsey management consultants returning for follow-up assignments..................................................... 1
Business registration fee doubled to S50....................... 3
Site clearance in Kowloon for Mass Transit Railway.............. 5
Employment Bill comes into force on Monday...................... 8
Social worker defends capability and efficiency of disabled people.......................... .............................. 9
New membership of Textiles Advisory Board announced........ 11
Nov; guide to Post Offices available from Monday............... 11
Public light bus stand at Statue Square to be relocated... 12
Call for greater understanding of deaf people’s problems.. 14
******
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time: 8 p.m«
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
Thursday, March 28, 1974
- 1 -
CONSULTANTS TO UNDERTAKE MAJOR TRAINING PROGRAMME
**««*$*
The McKinsey consultants will be returning to Hong Kong next month on the first of two follow-up assignments.
Announcing this to-day, a government spokesman said that one of their main tasks would be to undertake a major training programme, which they were unable to do last year because of their pre-occupation with the overhaul of administrative procedures and recommendations for the reorganisation of the central government machinery.
’’Before they left last year, they conducted four seminars for a total of some 60 senior officers who were to be principally involved in setting up and working the new management machinery envisaged,” he said.
”It has become clear that it is desirable that they should continue and expand this initial training programme, at an opportune time, to include more staff at senior and middle management levels. The object will be to ensure that the changes introduced, and the principles and practices involved, are fully understood and properly applied.
’’The new machinery of government has now been set up, and the policy and* resource branches in the Secretariat are functioning along the lines recommended. But much remains to be done to ensure that everyone concerned is thoroughly familiar with the new procedures.”
The spokesman said that each of the two visits planned for this purpose would last three months. The first would commence in mid—April and the second at the end of September.
/During those •••••..
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 2 -
During these visits, the team will also formulate a number of long term programme plans in conjunction with Secretariat Branches and the various departments involved. Two such plans will deal with ’’Law and Order”, and ’’Communication between Government and People”.
’’These programme plans will deal with matters of great public concern, involving many government departments. They are designed to co-ordinate our efforts and make the best use of the resources available * /
to us,” the spokesman said.
”A major Annual Operating Plan, designed to ensure greater cost effectiveness by relating the input of resources to the output of services, will also be produced, probably in the field of Hong Kong’s medical services.
’’This will give us a model on which we can in future base other plans, tp be prepared by government officers. These plans provide a useful means of monitoring the performance of our services to the public, on an annual basis,” he explained.
In addition, the team will be available to advise Secretariat Branches and the Management Unit on progress made in the implementation of last year's recommendations and on the programme plans and personnel resource plans now being drawn-up.
The spokesman said that two consultants from McKinsey and Co. Inc., London, Mr. Roger Holland and Mr. Mark Weedon, both of whom were in last year’s team, will arrive in Hong Kong in the first half of-April. Dr. Alcon Copisarow, who will be in overall charge of the study, will pay the first of a series of periodic visits at the end of April.
These two follow-up visits by the McKinsey team, lasting six months in all, will cost a total of $725,000..
- - 0 - -
/5
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 3 -
BUSINESS REGISTRATION FEE DOUBLED
*»«***»**
Tho Business Registration fee is to be doubled from 525 to 350 with effect from next Monday (April 1), Mr. Victor Ladd, Assistant Commissioner of Inland Revenue, announced today.
The revision of the fees is in line with the changes made by the Financial Secretary in his Budget speech on February 27•
Mr. Ladd said the opportunity was also taken to simplify the existing penalty system for late payments of Business Registration fees.
At present, S3 is charged for late payment in the first month and 32 each month thereafter. However, the new penalty rate will be a flat 315 onco-and-for-all surcharge.
Two other increases will also take effect from next week, namely, the fee for the issue of a certified copy or extract of documents under Section 19 of the Business Registration Ordinance which will go up from 310 to 315j and the fee for the issue of a duplicate business registration certificate from 32 to 35 •
At the same time, the limits below which a person carrying on business might apply for exemption from payment of the registration foe has also been raised as follows:
* Any business establishment, except a new business or one whose profits derive primarily from the sale of services, with a total sales of less than 31,500 a month can apply for exemption. The present limit is 31,000.
/♦Any business, ..•••••
• ■'Ouef
Thursday, March 28, 1974
1 y/f. \
- 4 -
* Any business, whose profits derive primarily from the sale of services, with a total sales or receipts of less than $450 a month (currently $300) can also apply for exemption.
Mr. Ladd said details of these changes would appear in advertisements
of leading English and Chinese newspapers tomorrow (Friday)e
. ;• c £■. ■
Explaining the revision, he said it reflected the fact that the ■V- . iai:. .n .• jq r i f -jUi. *
fees had remained unchanged for many years while,,the costs for running
this had gone up. Thus, the revision was merely in line Mth the general trend of rising costs.
• • C’0,1
In his Budget speech, Mr. Philip Haddon-Cave said that the Finance
Branch had completed the first stage of an exercise to revise fees and charges, covering a multitude of services and of permits, licences, certificates and other official documents.
The rates, he said, were originally designed either to recover full costs, or to raise revenue or to keep administrative costs within bounds by detering frivolous applications. Many of these rates had remained unchanged for many years, 30 years in some cases.
The Finance Branch had identified 40 original documents and ... X ’i?.’": been h-ud
a miscellany of duplicates,copies and extracts for which higher rates could be introduced virtually straight away in 1974-75•
t • / ,'f: r tqoex rX’U./’iT . : idr .ric-'d *
The doubling of Business. Registration fees, he added, would
yield an additional $5 million a year.
_______0___________
/5.......
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 5 -
PREPARATION FOR MTR CONSTRUCTION Major Site Clearance Soon *********
A major move forward in preparations for the construction of the Mass Transit Railway will take place soon with the clearance of a key site of about 5^,000 square feet at the junction-to-be of Argyle Street and Tong Mi Road.
The clearance and demolition will ensure the further progress of another very big transportation scheme, the construction of the West Kowloon Corridor route.
The site is urgently needed in order to provide for an essential diversion of traffic when work on the underground railway begins in Nathan Road. The pre-war buildings on the site form an obstruction preventing a traffic link between Argyle Street and Tong Mi Road.
This link is needed not only for traffic-diverting purposes. It will also be a vital component in the Tong Mi Road extension project, which is part of the West Kowloon Corridor scheme and on which work is already under way. It was for this purpose that the clearance was originally required.
A government spokesman explained today that preparatory work on clearance of the area is now well advanced.
/Notice was
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 6 -
Notice was given last May that the land was required and the land was resumed in August. Since then, all of the 60 families who used to occupy flats there have left, new accommodation having been arranged by the Housing Department. Nearly all of these families opted for rehousing in the Ho Man Tin Estate.
Other people affected by the clearance include the occupiers of seven industrial structures and of seven shops or trading premises* The shops are located on the ground floor of the tenements buj] dings from which the residents have moved. Letters were sent to the occupiers advising them that all the premises will have to be Vacated by March 31 at the latest, to enable demolition to proceed.
Compensation will be awarded under the terms of the Crown Lands Resumption Ordinance and a Compensation Board is now hearing the various claims.
In addition, the commercial and industrial occupiers, from whom the government has demanded no rent since it took over the land last August, have received substantial advances on their prospective compensation entitlements in order to assist them in moving to new premises.
The former domestic tenants, in addition to being rehoused, will also receive compensation.
There will be an impact on two further categories of people, although they do not occupy premises on the site and cannot claim compensation.
/The first
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 7 - .
-1
The first of these consists of about 20 hawkers and stalloperators in adjoining streets, who will have to move. Any licensed fixed pitch hawkers will be found new pitches by Urban Services Department, which in a parallel operation will this year be supervising the removal of Mong Kok Market from its Argyle Street site to its new location on a site abutting Shanghai Street.
The second category is the employees in the seven factory buildings on the site. The Local Employment Service of the Labour Department will help workers to find new jobs if necessary. A. temporary office with a team of registration officers from the Local Employment Service wall. be set up nearby to assist workers in finding alternative employment.
The spokesman said that so far the clearance moves had proceeded smoothly and with the co-operation of those involved. "We are confident that the industrial and commercial occupiers will show the same co-operation as the residents have displayed.
"Of the need for this clearance there can be absolutely no doubt. Both the West Kowloon Corridor project and the Mass Transit Railway are vital to the economic development of Hong Kong, and are closely linked with major housing and social developments in Kowloon and the New Territories," the spokesman said.
-------0---------
/8........
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 8 -
EMPLOYMENT BILL EFFECTIVE FROM MONDAY
*********
The Employment (Amendment) Ordinance 197^, which provides non-manual employees the same statutory protection currently enjoyed by all manual workers, will eome into force on Monday (April 1).
It increases by a third the wage ceiling on non-manual workers, from 31,500 to 32,000, covered by Hong Kong major labour legislation.
The new legislation provides, among other things, maternity protection, paid statutory holidays and sickness allowance. It governs the payment of wages and restricts deduction of wages.
Also passed in the Legislative Council yesterday was the Workmen’s Compensation (Amendment) Bill 197^, which also boosts workmen’s compensation payment scales by a third, from 31,500 to 32,(300.
Under the new legislation, which will become effective on July 1, dependants of a worker killed in the course of his employment will receive not less than 39,600 or more than 360,000 — compared with a minimum of 37,200 and a maximum of 3^5,000 under the existing ordinance.
The compensation payment to worker who suffers permanent incapacity will be increased from not less than 39,600 or more than 360,000 to a minimum of 312,800 and a maximum of 380,000.
The additional compensation payment for a worker who requires constant attention as a result of his injuries will be a maximum of 332,000 instead of 32^,000 under the new legislation.
-------0---------
/9........
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 9 -
THE DISABLED ARE CAPABLE TOO
***««**4
A social worker whose primary task is finding jobs for disabled peopi^said today there is still a general belief, particularly among employers, that disabled people are less efficient than others.
”Tliis is a totally wrong concept because, once in a job, a person with a physical or mental disability is probably a more steady worker,” said Mr. Chan Shiu-wing, Officer-in-Charge of the Social Welfare Department’s Job Placement Unit.
Mr. Chan has headed the unit for the past Wz years dealing with factory managements and other employers, placing disabled people, both men and women, in employment to give them an opportunity to earn a living on their own.
’’General prejudice against the working capacity of the disabled is still the main barrier which they have to face in trying to obtain a job which would enable them to live decently in the community,” he said.
He admitted that there are many jobs which the disabled cannot do but said there are also many which they can.
”More progressive employers are becoming aware of this and arc willing to give them a chance to prove it, but there needs to be many more.
’’Their reluctance probably stems from the general feeling towards the disabled, but I am sure, that their attitudes will change after they have given the disabled a chance to show what they can do,” Mr. Chan said.
/It is •••••••
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 10 -
It is not realised, he pointed out, that the disabled, whether they are mentally or physically handicapped, are like that through no fault of their own.
’They are members of our society and are entitled to equal chances like anyone else.”
Mr. Chan said specialisation in production processes- offer many simple repetitive jobs which able-bodied workers find boring and meaningless, but which the handicapped, with proper vocational training, could do.
The Social Welfare Department, he said, has two centres whore disabled people receive vocational training before they are found work so they are put into jobs with some basic training.
”What they need is patience, understanding and the chance to prove themselves.”
”For example,” Mr. Chan added, ”during the past few years the Job Placement Unit has placed some mentally-retarded persons in a variety of jobs such as machine sewers in a factory making bedsheets and pillows, some in a garment factory as packers and others in a paper products factory as casual workers.”
Lost month his unit also secured employment for another 23 disabled people comprising a cured T.B. patient, five ex-mental patients, five deaf people and 12 cripples. They were found jobs as clerks, machine sewers, apprentices, type-setters, assemblers, packers, and one as a lift-operator in a hotel.
-------0----------
/11 .......
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 11 -
TEXTILES ADVISORY BOARD New Membership Announced ******
The Governor has appointed 17 residents to the Textiles Advisory Board for the period between April 1, 197^ and March J1, 1975«
They are Mr. David Jordan, Director of Commerce & Industry (Chairman ex-officio), the Hon. George Ronald Ross, Mr. Francis Yuan—hao Tien, Mr. Lam Kun-shing, Mr. Bryan Irlam Barlow, Mr. Chow Chung*-kai, Mr. Wong Toong-yuen, Mr. Chan Sui-kau, Miss Lydia Dunn, Mr. Philip Lai, Mr. Lee Yiiw/ah, Mr. Frank Huipc Lin, Mr. Shen Hsi-jui, Mr. Jack ChL»chien Tang, Mr. William Tsu-liang Yao, Mr. Ronald Chao and Mr. Stephen Cheong.
Ihe teAis of reference of the Board are to advise the Director of Commerce and Industry on any matter, other than labour matters, which affects the textile and garment industries.
t -------0---------
NEW POSTAL GUIDE
******
A new edition of the Post Office Guide, giving up-to-date postal information, will be on sale at all post offices from Monday (April 1).
The new guide contains information about post office services, postage rates and the conditions of acceptance for all categories of mail.
It would be of particular interest to firms and other organisations who make frequent use of post office services, a Post Office spokesman said.
For an additional fee of S2, he said, subscribers will be sent regular amendment lists and an application form for this purpose is enclosed with the new guide, the price of which will remain unchanged at $8.50.
-------0--------- /12....................
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 12 -
STATUE SQUARE PLB STAND RELOCATED
******
The mini-bus stand in Des Voeux Road Central next to Statue
Square is being removed on Sunday (March 31) to an enlarged stand on the west side of Connaught Centre, near Blake Pier.
A spokesman for the Transport Department said today that the government has extended the new stand to accommodate a total of 60 mini-buses which is adequate to meet the numbers now using the Statue Square stand.
’’This will provide a convenient picking up and setting down point for commuters as it is close to the ferries, which carry vast numbers of people daily, and the covered footbridge which crosses Connaught Road Central,” he added.
To provide easier access to the enlarged terminus, the northern extension to Pedder Street and the un-named road fronting the stand will be re-routed for two-way traffic.
At the same time, improvements will be made in Stanley Street by prohibiting the loading and unloading of goods vehicles during peak hours -7 to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. to reduce any congestion now experienced in this street.
An extra minibus stand will shortly be set up in Wellington Street to give additional setting down and picking up facilities in the area.
Commenting on the relocation of the Statue Square stand, the spokesman said that it was part of the final phase of the Central District Traffic Arrangements which have been gradually introcduced since the end of last year.
/The scheme
Thursday, March 28, 1974
- 13 -
The scheme, which has involved the private motorist, goods vehicles as well as mini-buses, is a bold move to improve the traffic flor; in the heavily congested Central District - and it has proved successful.
There has been a noticeable easing in the flow of traffic particularly in Queen’s Road Central, Des Voeux Road Central, Connaught. Road Central and Ice House Street.
’’Apart from improving traffic conditions, the area near Statue Square will be required for mass transit works early next year,” the spokesman added.
He said that the mini-bus operators have known about the removal of the stand for almost a year. Only last month they wore informed that its closure was imminent.
Note to Editors? Copies of a sketch map illustrating the change are boxed for collection.
-------0---------
’ /14......
Thursday, March 28, 197^
- 14 -
SPARE THE DEAF A THOUGHT, - SAYS MISS ANNIE QIAN
******
The Assistant Director of Social Welfare, Miss Annie Qian Suet-man, today called for greater public understanding of the deaf and their problems.
She said few people realise what deaf people are up against and therefore pay very little attention to them.
Miss Qian was speaking at the meeting of the Hong Kong Society for the Deaf on social work services being provided for deaf people.
Deafness, she noted, could be congenital, the result of illness or loss of hearing as one grows old.
"But being deaf does not necessarily mean a person is dumb because with effort and training a deaf person can also learn to speak." They need special education, medical. .services and employment opportunities, she pointed out.
For its part, the- Social Welfare Department has been providing services for the deaf for the past 16 years.
The department now has six clubs for deaf people situated in various parts of Hong Kong and these provide educational, recreational and handicraft training. Vocational training courses are also run at its two rehabilitation centres in Aberdeen and Kwun Tong. Besides these services, she said, the department also subsidises the purchase of hearing aids for deaf people.
/But the
Thursday, March 28, 1$?4
- 15 -
But the Social Welfare Department is not alone in this field and others like the Education and Medical Departments and voluntary welfare organisations are also running a variety of services for the deaf in Hong Kong,
Miss Chan said much has already been done but there was still room for development, for example, in such areas as lip-reading and sign-language. She also hoped more activities would be organised for deaf people.
Note to Editors: Copies of Miss Chan’s speech, in Chinese
1 only, are distributed in the press boxes.
4
-------o---------
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guido To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
The following prices were realised today (Thursday) at sales under the Rice Control Scheme and at tho Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and tho Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Marlcot at
Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon
Prices of Rice
Grade Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (fl/catty) , _
China Rice Average
„ ,, old crop Seo Mow * - new crop Good • • ■ • 2.CO
S.C.Jion - new crop Good 1.</r ' •
Po I Igai - -
Chu Cho - -
Thai Rice
lOCjTWhole —
10-15# Brokens - —
A1 Super Extra Good 1.67
A1 Super Good 1.52
Whole Glutinous Good 2*00
U.S, Rice Good 1.82
AustralianRioo - —
Pakistan Rice - •
Taiwan Rice — • —
/Supplies and ••••••
Thursday, Parch 28, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Species • Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (S/catty)
Hipfr Low • Average
Golden Thread Good 3.3 2.5 2.8
Big-Eyes Good 2.7 0.8 1.8
Squid Limited 5.0 2.0 4.5
Hair-Tails Good 2.0 1.3 1.8
Lizard Fishes Normal 3.5 1.3 2.7
Croakers Normal 2.0 1.2 1.5
Conger-Pike-Eels Good 2.7 1.8 2.4
Melon Coat Scarce 2.3 1.0 1.3
Breams Limited 6.0 3.2 4.0
Yellow Belly Good 1.8 0.7 1.5
Mackerels Normal 4.5 3.0 4.5
Red Goat Fish Good 1.2 0.6 0.8
Fork-Tail Normal 1.4 1.0 1.2
Horse-Head Good 4.8 3.2 4.0
Melon Seed Scarce 2.8. 2.0 2.4
Poof rets Scarce 11.0 8.5 9.0
Gcroupas Normal 7.2 5.5 6.5
Yellow Croaker Scarce 6.5 6.0 6.2
/Supplies and • •<>••«•
Thursday, March 28, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Pricefl of
locall.y Produced Vop'otablos
Availability Wholesale Price
SQ22 of >h>pply ___'■;v)________
ILki Low Average
Flowering cabbage Normal 1.40 0.60 1.00
White cabbage Normal 0.80 0.35 0.60
Chinese Lettuce Normal 0.80 0.30 0.50
Chinese Kale Normal 1.20 0.50 0.8,0
Spring onion Good 0.80 0.20 0.50
Spinach Limited 1.50 0.70 1.20
Water oress Normal 1.00 0.20 0.70
Loaf mustard cabbage Normal 0.80 0.20 0.50
Tomato Limited 1.60 0.80 1.20
Chinese spinach Scarce 2.00 1.20 1.50
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live
Availability Wholesale Price
of Supply ( fl/ picul)
(Average)
Pork Good 300
----<-0------
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Friday, March 29, 197^
CONTENTS
Pago No,
Nev; post of Secretary for the New Territories created •••••• 1
Provisional trade figures for February released .............. 3
Hong Kong team on world tour to see anti-drug progress....... 5
Housing Department seeks sophisticated building techniques to speed up housing programme............................... 6
Tenancy Inquiry Bureaux to come under Rating and Valuation Department from Monday ...................................... 7
Press representatives to see new airport security measures,• 8
Tour for secondary students to see pollution problems •••••• 9
Refund of vehicle licence fees being processed ••••••••••••• 11
Proposed amendments to Wanchai Outline Zoning Plan ••••••••• 12
More people eligible for legal aid............................ 13
Simplification of compensation procedures in relation to street closures ........................................... 15
Re-appointment of Polytechnic Broad of Governors ••••••••••• 16
Hong Kong stresses need for reform in international monetary system at ECAFE meeting •................................. 18
Now development must bo achieved without causing pollution, says Governor.............................................. 21
»*«*««**
Daily guide to wholesale prices and supply of basic food commodities
Release time:
9,00 p,m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
I
Friday, March 29, 1974 ।
i
i
- 1 -
*
i <
N.T.A. POST UPGRADED
Mr* D* Akers-Jones Appointed Secretary For New Territories
A. new post has been created within the Secretariat to co-ordinate
all policy matters affecting the New Territories*
\ Mr. David Akers-Jones, who has been appointed Secretary for the
\ • •• \ $
New Territories, will continue to function as head of the New Territories
\ ' •
Administration while participating fully with the other Secretaries in the
\ *
formation of government policy. V.
A government spokesman said today that the appointment of a Secretary
for the New Territories reflected his unique policy-making role. >
V * 1
”As well as being adviser and administrator for New Territories affairs,
i .
he, has special functions, both political and economic, which affect the T
responsibilities and activities of all Secretariat branches,” the spokesman added. ”In his new role as Secretary he will assume responsibility for the
political aspects of administration in the New Territories, a function now
• | '■ \ i
performed by the Secretary for Home Affairs©
,!He will also co-ordinate the various departmental services in the New * 1 * • * ♦
Territories, taking over responsibility for new towns from the Secretary for
Housing.
”In addition, he will advise on the adaptation of government policies
to take into account the special requirements of the New Territories.”
The spokesman said that the New Territories were obviously very
important to Hong Kong, and the government was concerned to ensure that their
•• development proceeded smoothly and amicably, and with respect for the traditions
and reasonable interests of the inhabitants.
~ /With this ••*•••.
I
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 2 -
With this in view, two new districts had been created under the New Territories Administration to provide for the future needs of the nei| towns to be developed at Shatin and Tuen Mun.
”In addition to the new post of Secretary for the Nev; Territories, two other senior posts have recently been established,nsaid the spokesman. 1 •These provide for a Deputy District Commissioner to assume responsibility for new towns and, within the Public Works Department, a Director of New Territories Development.
”The Deputy District Commissioner will function within the New Territories Administration to ensure that services to the new towns of >
Tsuen Wan, Shatin and Tuen Mun are properly co-ordinated and efficiently managed,
••Such services will naturally cover not just the basic requirements t /
of housing, education and health facilities but also recreational and cultural anenities.
,rEe will also ensure that local views, opinions, wishes and complaints ere speedily dealt with.
”Th^ Director of New Territories Development will supervise the progress of ptblic works both within the new towns and throughout the rural areas,” the spokesman said.
He added r !,We believe that all these new measures will enable the government tc function more efficiently, because the political aspects of administration and the co-ordination of public services in the new towns and rural areas, a*e now so important as to require a full Secretary in charge.”
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 3 -
FEBRUARY EXPORTS UP BY NEARLY 21 FER CENT "•******#
The value of Hong Kong!s domestic exports for February this year was 81,507 million — an increase of 8261 million or 20.9 per cent over February 1973? according to provisional trade figures released today by the Census and Statistics Department.
Imports were up in value by 33*3 per cent as compared with the same month last year, while re-exports increased by 62.2 per cent.
Commenting on these figures, Mrs. F. Hsiung, Assistant Director of Commerce and Industry said that figures for the period January to February this year showed increases over the same period in 1973 of 38.3 per cent for domestic exports, 61.6 per cent for re-exports and 32.1 per cent for imports.
For the 12-month period March 1973 to February 197^} domestic exports went up by 32.1 per cent over the previous 12-month period, while re-exports rose by 61.8 per cent and imports by 3^-7 per cent.
A.table with comparative figures is given below for easy reference:
MERCHANDISE; Domestic Exports :’ 81,307 million
Imports : 82,333 million
Re-exports ;• 8 591 million
/COMPARATIVE FIGURES .......
Friday, March 29, 197^
COMPARATIVE FIGURES February Febsmary Increase or
197** 1973 decrease
$ Mn. Mn. S Mn. %
Domestic Exports 1,507 1,246 + 261 + 20.9
Imports 2,553 1,916 + 638 + 33.3
Re-oxports 591 364 + 226 + 62.2
Dec. 1973 Dec. 1972
to to Increase or
Feb. 1974 Feb. 1973 decrease
S Mn. S Mn. 3 Mn. %
Domestic Exports 5,362 3,672 +1,689 + 46.0
Imports 8,044 5,754 +2,289 + 39.8
Re-exports 1,787 1,112 + 67^ + 60.6
Jan.-Feb. Jan.-Feb. Increase or
1974 1973 decrease
3 Mn. $ Mn. 3 tn.
Domestic Exports 3,402 2,460 + 943 + 38.3
Imports 4,986 3,774 +1,212 + 32.1
Re-exports 1,166 722 + W; + 61.6
Mai*. 1973 Mar. 19*72
to to Increase or
Feb. 197^ Feb. 1973 decrease
3 Mn. $ Mn. 3 Mn. %
Domestic Exports 20,417 15,451 +4,966 + 32.1
Imports 30,217 22,439 +7,777 + 34.7
Re-exports 6,969 4,307 +2,663 + 61.8
- - - - 0 /5
Friday, March 29, 197^-
- 5 -
SENIOR HONG KONG OFFICERS ON WORLD DRUG STUDY TOUR ********
A three-man Hong Kong team will spend a month visiting drug addiction treatmezit research centres in Europe, the United States, and Canada for a first-hand study of conditions there to see how to help improve Hong Kong’s fight against drug addiction.
The team comprises Sir Albert Rodrigues, in his capacity as Chairman of the newly-reconstituted Action Committee Against Narcotics (ACAN); Dr. Gerald Choa, Director of Medical and Health Services; and Dr. T.M. Teoh, Senior Medical Officer in-charge of the Government’s Pilot Methadone Maintenance Treatment Centre in Sai Ying Pun.
The team will depart from Hong Kong at 8.30 a.m. tomorrow (Saturday), returning at about 10.30 p.m. on April 27.
They will meet the Press at Kai Tak immediately after their arrival to answer questions on their trip and findings.
Their itinerary includes talks in Geneva with senior officials of the World Health Organisation; a week in London; a week in New York for visits, among others, to the New York Methadone Maintenance Programme, the Morris Bernstein Institute, and the New York State Narcotic Addiction Control Commission.
From Now York, the team will proceed to Toronto for discussions, among others, with officials of the Drug Research Foundation.
Their next stop will be in Chicago for visits to the Epidemiology Research Unit of the Illinois Drug Abuse Programme, and the Department of Psychology of the University of Chicago.
From Chicago, they will fly to San Francisco to visit the Department of Pharmacology of the University of California’s Medical Centre, and other centres,
In Dr. Choa’s absence, Dr. K.L. Thong, Deputy Director (Health), will act as Director. n
-------0--------- /6.......................
Friday, March 29, 197^
MORE SOPHISTICATED E HILLING TECHNIQUES SOUGHT
To Speed Up 10-Year-Housing Programme
»**A»»**
The Housing Department is currently locking into various methods to speed up the construction of public housing projects in the future.
A spokesman said that the task imposed by the 10-year housing programme made it essential for the department to seek more sophisticated building techniques to meet the target.
The Housing Department has today (Friday) placed an advertisement in several newspapers inviting contractors who have the facilities or intend to introduce facilities for semi-mechanised methods of building of industrialised system to submit details for appraisal.
nA list could then be drawn up from which we could invite tenders for suitable public housing projects in the coming year,” the spokesman said.
Meanwhile, a total of 109 stalls will be offered by ballot and tender to eligible hawkers in the Sau Mau Ping Estate next month.
The modular market, included in Stage Three of the estate, has just been completed and will have available a total of stalls. The balance of 35 are located in Stage One and Two of the estate.
The Housing Department today sent out letters inviting eligible hawkers to register with the estate office on April 17 and 18.
On April 23, a number of meat, fish and poultry stalls will be tendered out. The following day. the rest of the stalls will be made available by ballot.
Mr. Michael C.C. Sze, City District Officer, Kwun Tong, will officiate at the tender and ballot procedure on both days.
------0--------- /?..................
1
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 7 -
RATING COMMISSIONER TAKES OVER TENANCY INQUIRY BUREAUX FRCM MONDAY ***#*»**«
All tenancy matters concerning both pre-war and post-war buildings, will become the responsibility of the Commissioner of Rating and Vai nation with effect from Monday (April 1) when he takes over the running of the Tenancy Inquiry Bureaux.
As from that date, all communications about tenancy matters should be addressed to the Commissioner at Ko. 1 Garden Road, Hong Kong#
Under the Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) (Amendment) Bill 1974 which was passed in Legislative Council this Wednesday, the Bureaux are to be transferred from the Home Affairs Department to the Rating and Valuation Department for operational reasons.
The Tenancy Inquiry Bureaux perform certain duties and provide a service to the public on tenancies in pre-war buildings.
Since its establishment, however, the major part of the government’s responsibility in domestic tenancy matters has shifted to post-war premises, and lias been carried out by the Commissioner of Rating and Valuation.
Apart from authorisation of rent increases, and giving advice
-• V! * -. in rent control matters on post-war buildings, the Commissioner also performs certain duties relating 5o pre-war tenements.
On the grounds of both efficiency and service to the public, it is considered, therefore,that •tenancy matters concerning both pre-war and post-war premises should come under the Rating and Valuation Department, / who now has the largest share of this work.
/The Commissioner
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 8 -
The Commissioner has expressed his intention to maintain offices for the Bureaux on both sides of the harbour for the convenience of the *
public, and the branch offices in Hong Kong and Kowloon will continue to operate from their present addresses — 10th floor of International Building in Des Voeux Road Central; and 6th floor of the Canton Road Government Offices.
_______0________
AIRPORT SECURITY
********
Note to Editors: Arrangements have been made by Securair
Limited for media representatives to see the new security system at Kai Tak Airport at 11 a.m. tomorrow (Saturday).
Securair is the Hong Kong-based security firm which has been engaged by the airlines to step up airport security measures. The new system comes into operation oi Monday (April 1).
Press representatives should assemble before
11 a.m. in the Press r>om in the Airport Terminal Building where they will be met by Securair officers.
-------0 -------
/9.........
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 9 -
STUDY OF POLLUTION PROBLEMS
******
Some 2,000 pupils from ten secondary schools will see various kinds of land and sea pollution next Thursday when they go on a harbour cruise in tv/c triple decker ferries with 217 student-teachers and 25 lecturers of Sir Robert Black College of Education, one of the three teacher training colleges run by the Education Department.
Ihe cruise comes at the end of e. three-week experimental scheme of integrated subject teaching, the theme of which is ’’Protection of the Environment.”
During the four-hour trip, the pupils will study many examples of pollution which arc clearly visible in such areas as Gin Drinker’s Bay, Lyemun Pass, Ap Lei Chau, Quarry Bay and Picnic Bay.
Since March 18, second year student-teachers, under the supervision of their lecturers, have taken over the entire time-table of Form 1 classes at 12 secondary schools by integrating the various school subjects and concentrating them under one theme.
The Acting Principal of Sir Robert Black College of Education, Mrs. Nanette Fung, said today: "We are very grateful to the Principals of the 12 schools for their co-operation. Without their willingness to all nw this experiment, the project would never have got off the ground.”
The schedule of work for the three weeks has been carnfully balanced to give the various subjects a sufficient quota of periods for teaching and project work, plus visits to nearby sites for environment studies, she said.
/On April
4
Friday, March 29, 1974
- 10 -
On April 3 there will be a display of work done by secondary pupils during the three-week period.
As part of the experimental scheme, the Agriculture and fisheries Department arranged field trips for student-teachers to see urban waste disposal problems, the Pineapple Pass Nature Trail at Shing Mun Reservoir, Tai Lam Chung Reservoir and its Forestry Post, water pollution problems caused by farms, sewage and small industries at Hung Sui Kev; as well as the tanneries at Fanling.
A harbour tour was arranged by the Marine Department for student-teacher leaders to get a preliminary survey done on water pollution and soil erosion, while the lecturers borrowed a launch to do the same tour.
- - --0---------
/11
Friday, March 29, 1974
REFUND OF VEHICLE LICENCE FEES
********
The Transport Department has begun checking its computer records as the first step in determining which motorists are eligible for a refund following a change in the vehicle licence fees announced by the Financial Secretary last Wednesday.
The checking will take several days before a comprehensive list can be prepared. Once the names are known, those eligible will be notified how the payment is to be made.
A spokesman for the Transport Department said today that the government was anxious to settle the matter of refunds as quickly as possible.
.• f.
,fFor obvious reasons the process cannot be completed overnight. But every effort is being .made to ensure that those people eligible will receive refunds soon," he added.
The spokesman appealed to people to co-operate by refraining from calling at the Transport Department and asking for an immediate refund.
He emphasised that a refund could not bo made until after the records had been checked, thus giving an equal opportunity to all those eligible.
The spokesman added that notification would be given as soon as possible, but no precise date could be given at this stage.
- - 0 - -
/12
Friday, March 295 197^
- 12 -
DRAFT AVAN CHAI OUTLINE ZONING PLAN TO BE AMENDED *«»**«**
The Town Planning Board has proposed an amendment to the Draft Wan Chai Outline Zoning Plan, it was announced in today’s Government Gazette,
The amendment to the plan, which will not affect any additional property, concerns the re-zoning of an area comprising properties in Wan Chai Road and Chi Shing Lane which was shown on the original plan as open space.
An urgent requirement for adequate land for the provision of marketing facilities later became apparent, and the Board decided to re-zone the open space site to government institutional and community use* Hi is re-zoning would not preclude the use of the roof of any market hm’Idtng or any part of the site for recreational purposes. The amendment to the plan is now exhibited for public inspection during normal office hours at the Public Inquiry Centre, Central Government Offices (West Wing), Hong Kong and at the Wan Chai City District Office, Tung Wah Mansion, 201 Hennessy Road, Hong Kong, Copies of the amendment plan may also be purchased from the Crown Lands & Survey Office, 19th floor, Murray Building, Garden Road, Hong Kong, Any objections to the amendment may be made in writing to the
Secretary, Town Planning Board, c/o Public Works Department, Murray Building, not later than Firday, April 18, 197^« ----------------------------------0----------
/13
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 13 -
MORE TO QUALIFY FOR LEGAL AID
*«««****
7
The Legal Aid (Assessment of Contribution) Regulations have been amended to raise the level of personal allowances made when calculating the disposable income of applicants for legal aid.
Although many people receive completely free legal aid, some i may be required to make a partial contribution towards the cost of providing them with legal aid, depending upon their financial situation.
However, personal allowances are made when computing the disposable incomes and capitals of the applicants in assessing the amount of their contributions, if any.
Raising the level of personal allowances will result in the disposable incomes of applicants for legal aid being assessed at a lower level than previously.
This will have a two-fold effect: First, more people will be financially eligible to receive legal aid; and second , more applicants will receive completely free legal aid while others with higher gross income will pay sma J1 er contributions towards their legal costs.
Th© new rates of allowances, published in tho Government Gazette today, are as follows:-
(a) Person with no dependent Old Rate S 110 New Rate $ 145
(b) Person and first two dependents (formerly first three dependents) S 90 each 8 105 each
(c) Third, fourth and fifth dependents (formerly fourth, fifth and sixth dependents) $ 70 each, in addition to (b) $ 85 each, in addition to (b)
(a) Sixth and additional dependents (formerly seventh and additional dependents) 8 55 each, in addition to (b) and (c) 8 65 each, in addition to (b) and (c)
/The revision
Friday, March 29, 1974
- 14 -
Hie revision of the rates is in line with a decision by the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council that the Public Assistance Scheme criteria should be adopted in fixing the personal allowances for calculation of the monthly disposable income of applicants for legal aid, and that the relevant regulations should be amended whenever the scheme’s criteria are altered.
Late last year, the Social Welfare Department announced a set of new cash grants payable under this scheme which came into effect from i
January 1, 1974.
In order to bring the above personal allowances into line with the scheme’s new levels of benefit, the regulations have been revised accordingly.
-------0---------
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 15 -
STREET CLOSURES
Compensation Procedures Simplified
********
The procedure for compensating an owner or occupier of a property affected by the alteration or closure of a‘street is to be simplified under a new Bill gazetted today.
At present, compensation can be' agreed between the government ? •
and the occupier or owner of the properties affected.
If the two parties fail to agree, the owner- or occupier will have to lodge an objection and wait for consideration by the Governor in Council before the claim can be referred to a tribunal for adjudication.
Under the new bill — the Streets (Alteration) (Amendment) Bill 197^- — the owner or occupier will be able to refer the claim direct to a tribunal without first having to lodge the objection.
The principal ordinance, enacted in 1970, provides for compensation to owners or occupiers who are likely to suffer financial loss or damage when the street, in which their properties are located, is altered or closed indefinitely.
-------0 --------
/1o.........
Friday, March 29, 1974
- 16 -
RE-APPOINTMENT OF POLYTECHNIC BOARD OF GOVERNORS
lM*t*«t*
The Governor has re-appointed the unofficial members of the Polytechnic Board of Governors to serve for a further term of two or three years•
With the re-appointment of these members, gazetted today, the oomposition of the Board remains tinchanged.
The members are: Dr. Chung Sze-yuen (Chairman), Mr. James
M. H. Wu (Deputy Chairman ) , Sir Lawrence Kadoorie, Mr. Lee Quo-wei Mr. Jack C. Tang, Mr. Francis Y.H. Tien, Mr. P.G. Williams and Dr. Yung Chi-tung.
In addition, two serving members, Mr. S.L. Chen and Dr. Payson
Lisung Hun ng, will continue on the Board for the duration of their appointments.
Commenting on the re-appointments a government spokesman said: ,rThe government is grateful that all eight unofficials have been willing to accept re-appointment at this' crucial stage in the development of the Polytechnic
The Board, which is the Polytechnic's highest policy making body, was appointed in April 1972 and took over the former Technical College in August of the same year to form the Hong Kong Polytechnic. /
It immediately embarked upon an expansion programme which involved increasing the enrolment of full-time equivalent students from 1,800 in September 1972 to 8,000 in 1977/78.
/’T’his is •••••••
Friday, March 29,.1974
- 17 -4 "This is a rapid rate of expansion,” the spokesman commented, ••which could not be achieved without the devoted and painstaking efforts of the Board of Governors.
,fIt is particularly important at this stage of expansion that continuity should be maintained in the membership of the Board, which has already successfully steered the Polytechnic through the difficult period of its initial establishment.
’*The Polytechnic occupies an important position within the education system of Hong Kong. The services of distinguished people from the industrial and commercial sectors as well as the universities, are valuable in ensuring that its development is geared to the needs of Hong Kong as an industrial and commercial city.”
_______0_________
/18.........
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 18 -
DANGERS OF INFLATION OUTLINED AT ECAFE MEETING
Hong Kong Stresses Need For Reform In International Monetary System
The Secretary for Economic Services, Mr. Derek Jones, today spoke about the dangers now facing the world economy.
Addressing the 30th plenary session of the Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East (ECAFE) in Colombo, he said the major danger was the "high and accelerating rate” of world inflation.
Last year, Mr. Jones pointed out, Hong Kong suffered a degree of inflation "unprecedented in our experience", most of it externally induced through the higher prices ruling in world markets.
The cost of living rose by more than 15 per cent, import prices by over 20 per cent and food prices by more than 25 per cent. "To this dangerous situation has now been added a four-fold increase in the pn.ee-of oil, the world’s major source of energy."
This, he said, would undoubtedly result in further price increases across a wide spectrum of goods and services, thus producing severe strains on the balances of payments of all oil importing countries, both developed and developing.
"All this increases the urgency of reaching agreement on reforms in the international monetary system, for there is no doubt that the Bretton Woods System of fixed exchange rates has broken down under the strains of recent years," he added.
x /"It^is .......
r I’ v
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 19 -
”It is the major developed countries and the oil producing countries, together, who bear the main responsibility for devising adequate and constructive measures to combat inflation and monetary instability, without incurring the opposite danger of depression, excessive unemployment and a drastic downturn in world trade,” Mr. Jones stressed. 4
He admitted that the responsibility was ’’grave indeed”, for the world economy was indivisible and the developing countries stood f y r y » to lose most from any failure in either direction. ’’For failure1 th nr way can only lead to a slowing down, or even a reversal, in economic i ‘ * development and an increase in poverty and social tensions.”
He emphasised that Hong Kong, whose whole economy depends on external trade, would stand to lose as much as any from any fail urn to deal adequately with these problems.
ECAFE, he stressed, had an important and constructive rolo to play as a catalyst and clearing house of ideas on how to meet the problems of inflation, monetary instability and the expansion of trading opportunities
Mr. Jones welcomed the decision taken in Tokyo last September to press ahead with the next round of multilateral trade negotiations under the auspices of the GATT.
”We ourselves impose no restrictions on trade and we believe that all countries stand to benefit from the reduction of barriers, both tariff and non-tariffhe said.
/He also ....... । i fir
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 20 -
He also welcomed the conclusion last year of the new arrangements regarding international trade in textiles which were less restrictive•
However, Mr. Jones was concerned at proposals now being considex*ed in the context of the multilateral trade negotiations to strengthen the protection provided by the safeguard provisions of the GATT.
"In our view, this could be dangerous and damaging, not only for competitive developing country exporters, but also for the economies of I
those developed countries who would invoke such safeguards and would lose part of the benefits of the international division of labour," he said.
Referring to the most important problems facing the region, Mr. Jones said they were food production, population growth and the adoption of the correct technologies to best utilise the productive potential of each country.
"The mobilisation of savings and their channelling into productive capital investment is another area of prime concern."
Turning to the main theme of the economic survey for 1973, namely education and employment, Mr. Jones said the Hong Kong delegation generally agreed tha.t the educational system should as far as possible "gear itself to the demands available for the services of the graduates it produces."
Note to Editors: Copies of the full text of Mr, Jones’
speech are boxed for collection.
-------0---------
/21
Friday, March 29, 1974
- 21 - ------
DEVELOPMENT WITHOUT POLLUTION
AjkOt4*t. .
• * • •' • A - -■*
The Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose, said this evening that • all the new development in Hong Kong must be achieved in a way that does not pollute or destroy the fine stetches of open country to the - * east and west of the main urban areas — the recreational lungs of Hong Kong* . •• - •
• ■ ■
This too, he said, is the engineers1 problem, though the ' "
government has the obligation to draft legislation laying down standards ..to which they can work for their clients. .
Sir Murray was speaking at the annual dinner of the Engineering -Society of Hong Kong* .. -
Looking to the long term, the Governor thought it is everyone^ wish in Hong Kong that in this decade ”we can make a major effort to f-ni the deficiencies of life that excessive immigration has produced*” ”It requires a simultaneous advance on many fronts involving ® major effort of planning , engineering, construction, administration, and finance* • . -
”The construction of the Hong Kong of the future is an exciting business and I think that the most exciting part in it is yours,” Sir Murray told the gathering.
Foilnying is the full text of the Governor’s speech:
’•There are far too few engineers in Heng Kong. So I am delighted that you as a Society are taking practical steps to encourage technical education, and thus the flow of young people who may enter one of your many disciplines. I assure you that in this the Government too will do everything
it can*
/”The need
1 *■ - i ■ $ • s .•* * f
/ - t ’ f . ■ , . , f
Friday, March 29, 197^
- 22 -
"The need is great, because the engineering problems of Hong Kong keep on growing. Last time I had the pleasure of dining with you which was two years ago, T said something about our problems of refuse and sewage disposal, highway construction and water supply. But in these two years the refuse to be collected each day has increased from i • i
2,500 tons to 3,000 tons; vehicles on highways from 160,000 to 200,000; and water consumption has continued to grow by 8% compound a year. So wo need every engineer and student engineer we can train or attract.
"One of the problems that has grown steadily larger in my thinking about development of Bong Kong is what I call the problem of the plateau. Hitherto our production and our prosperity have risen steadily and dramatically year by year. But this rising graph could get stuck on a plateau if wo were restricted by lack of land of sufficient area or at the right price to attract new industries or allow old ones to expand or diversify. This too is an engineering problem because it is a problem of access to the new land available. Hence the importance of the socond Shatin tunnel, of the new highway "o Castle Peak, and of the dramatic accretion of land produced by the new bridge to Tsing Yi. And os you know thought is being given to a bridge ~o Lantuu so as to open up the north shore for industrial and residential development.
"And then somehow all our new development in Hong Kong must be achieved in n way that does not pollute or destroy the fine stretches of open country to the East and West of the nain urban areas. These are tho recreational lungs of Hong Kong. This too is your problem, though tho Government has tho obligation to draft legislation laying down standards to which you can work for your clients. We will do our part os.I know you vH 11 do yours. /nI realise •••••••
Friday , March 29, 197^
- 23 -
”1 realise that many people in Hong Kong at this moment are more interested in the price of food to-day than in better houses, schools, hospitals, playgrounds or room for more and better factories tomorrow. This is very natural. We are in the grip of the rapid rise in prices for foodstuffs exacted by our suppliers. . However much this is regretted I think it is understood. What is resented is that anyone in Hong Kong should exacerbate the situation forced on us by turning it to their own profit - no matter to how small an extent. And this is a situation which breeds rumour and accusation and one which I view with great sympathy and concern. I therefore look forward to the new Consumer Council intervening strongly in this intensely human situation; paid the Government will listen carefully to any proposals it has to make.
” But with reasonable good fortune these immediate preoccupations should be comparatively short-lived, and looking to the long term I think it is everyone’s wish in Hong Kong that in this decade we make a major effort to fill the deficiencies of life that excessive immigration has produced. It requiries a simultaneous advance on many fronts involving a major effort of planning, engineering, construction, administration and finance. In our eagerness to break the back of these problems we find that when all our plans are put together they produce a somewhat indigestible hump in terms of production and expenditure and in particular in the throe years from 1975• This was the message in the Financial Secretary’s Budget Speech. While this colls for some re-phasing I am satisfied that on the assumption of reasonable prosperity our main objectives stand.
/The •••••••
Friday, March 29, 1974
- 24 -
"The construction of the Hong Kong of the future is an exciting business and I think that the most exciting part in it is yours."
Note to Editors: Copies of the speech by Mr. A.T. Armstrong-
.Vright, President of the Engineering Society of Hong Kong, will be distributed separately in the G.I.S. press boxes.
-------0----------
Friday, March 29, 197^
CONSUMER ADVISORY SERVICE
Daily Guide To Wholesale Market Prices And Supplies
The following prices were realised today (Friday) at sales under the Rice Control Scheme and at the Vegetable Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market and the Fish Marketing Organisation Wholesale Market at
Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon:
Supplies and Wholesale Prices office
Availability Wholesale Price
Grade of Supply ---
China Rico. Average
„ „ - old crop See Mew —
- new crop
S.C.Jion - new crop Good 1.94
Po llgai - —
Chu Clio - •
Thai Rico lOCfTIsiole Good 1.91
10-15# Brokens - •
A1 Super Extra -
A1 Super Good 1.52 •
Whole Glutinous -
* U.S, Rice Good 1.82
Australian Rioo Good 1.30
Pakistan Rice •• * ' •• • 99
Taiwan Rico
/Supplies and
Friday, March 29, 1974
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Marine Fish
Species Availability of Supply Wholesale Price (8/catty)
Low Average
Golden Thread Good 3-7 2.2 3.0
Big-Eyes Good 2.4 1.2 1.8
Squid Limited . 5.3 2.0 3.8
Hair-Tails Good 2.4 0.6 1.5
Lizard Fishes Normal 2.8 1.0 2.0
Croakers Normal 2.0 0.6 1.3
Conger-Pike-Eels Normal 2.5 1.6 2.0
Melon Coat — - - —
Breams Normal 4.6 2.2 3.5
Yellow Belly Good 1.2 0.6 0.9
Mackerels Good 4.2 2.5 3.1
Red Goat Fish Normal 1.0 0.5 0.7
Fork-Tail Normal 1.4 1.0 1.2
Horse-Head Good 5.7 2.5 3.8
Melon Seed Limited 2.8 • 1.5 2.0
Pornfrets - - - -
Garoupas Normal 7.0 4.8 6.0
Yellow Croaker — ••
/Supplies and ...
Friday, March 29, 197^
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of
Locally Produced Vegetables
Type Availability of Supply Wholesale Price
nigh (S/catty)
IzOW Average
Honoring cabbage Normal 1.2 0.6 1.0
White cabbage Good 0.5 0.2 O.h-
Chineso Lottuoo Normal 0.6 0.3 0.5
Chinese Kale Limited 1.2 0.5 0.8
Spring onion Good 0.8 0.2 0.5
Spinach Limited 1.4 0.7 1.0
Water cross Normal 1.0 0.2 0.6
Loaf mustard cabbage Normal 0.6 0.2 o.*>
Tomato Limited 1.6 0.6 1.2
Chinese spinach Scarce 2.2 1.2 1..6
Supplies and Wholesale Prices of Pork (Live weight)
Availability of Supply Wholesale Price ( </ picul)-.
• (Average)
Pork Good • 300
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PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Saturday, March 30, 1974
CONTENTS
Page No.
Preventive Service keep up pressure against illicit drug activities .............................................. 1
Passing-out parade of prison officers.................... 2
Special train services for Ching Ming Festival............... 3
Senior clerical officer retires after over 30 years’ service with the government .............................. 4
New traffic arrangements to be introduced in Mid-levels next week................................................... 4
Hong Kong delegate to ECAFE meeting speaks about the effects of inflation on world trade......................... 5
There will be an issue of Daily Information Bulletin tomorrow ••••••••••••........................................ 5
Release tine: 3.00 p.m.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
Saturday, March 30, 1974
- 1 -
SUCCESSFUL OPERATIONS AGAINST ILLICIT DRUG ACTIVITIES
By Preventive Service
**.*..*
The Preventive Service mounted widespread land and sea operations last month (February) to keep up the pressure against the illicit trade in narcotics.
A total of 133 dangerous drug seizures were made during the month -104 on land, 20 on outer islands and nine on board incoming vessels. The number of persons arrested totalled 485*
Two raids in the Walled City resulted in 11 smokers being rounded up and the seizure of 460 packages of heroin and 80 pounds of paracetamol (a barbitone substitute).
A heroin supplying centre is Western District was also successfully raided and 10,280 packages of heroin seize**'.
In the- outlying areas, a total of 13 anti-narcotic actions were mounted on Yung Shu Wan, Ping Chau, Cheung Chau, Tsing Yi and Mui Wo. Ten were successful, resulting in the seizure of drugs and smoking paraphernalia.
Fourteen people were arrested — one for keeping a divan, one for letting the premises be used as divan, nine for smoking opium and two for possession of drugs and opium pipes.
During the month the Preventive Service conducted seven investigations into alleged copyright infringements. Riads were made on two centres manufacturing pirated cassette tapes and one distribution centre, resulting in the seizure of 6,681 pirated tapes and 42 records.
Action was also taken to suppress the production of illicit liquor.
Biree stills, 61 gallons of rectified alcohol and 40 gallons of denatured alcohol were seized. Another 20 gallons of fermenting material were destroyed on site.
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Saturday, March 30, 197^
- 2
PASSING-OUT PARADE OF PRISON OFFICERS
****»««
Mr. R.V. Brimmicombe-Wood, Acting Senior Superintendent of Prisons, said today that with changing patterns in crime and variations in the type of offender it is necessary for the prison officers to keep abreast of development.
He was speaking at the passing out parade of prison officers at the Prisons Department Staff Training Institute at Stanley.
Mr. Brimmicombe-Wood told the prison officers that routines would now become an essential part of their work.
’’Such routines are made doubly difficult due to the overcrowding
I problem which exists in some institutions and with which you must contend
he said. ’’Such problems have to be faced as they are part and parcel of your job. You must therefore always be alert and prepared for the unexpected.’' Mr. Brimmicombe-Wood said that the duty of prison officers to
the community in the safe custody of the dangerous offender must be paramount.
However, he said: ’’Prisoners are people and whilst you must maintain a high degree of discipline, you must always be fair, in keeping with humanitarian principles.”
Taking part in the parade today were 8 Prison Officers and 68
Assistant Prison Officers II.
Saturday, March 30, 1974
- 3 -
SPECIAL TRAIN SERVICES FOR CHING MING FESTIVAL
Special passenger train services will be operated between Kowloon and Wo Hop Shek during the Ching Ming Festival period to cope with the expected increase in commuters.
Eleven up-trains will ply between Tsim Sha Tsui and Wo Hop Shek Cemetery between 6.15 a.ra. and 4.44 p.m. on Firday (April.5) and Sunday (April 7) while a similar numbe r of down trains will be operated between 7.40 a*m. and 6.14 p.m. These special trains will not.pick up passengers at the Mong Kok Station.
At the same time, all up and down local passenger trains will also f not pick up passengers at the Mong Kok Station between 8 a*m« and 3«*K) p«m< on these two days. \
During this period^ passengers wishing to board at the Mong Kok Station should go to the Tsim Sha Tsui Station. Holders of season and monthly tickets will be allowed to board these trains at Tsim Sha Tsui without extra charge.
I
A spokesman for the Kowloon-Canton Railway said that additional special trains would be operated in the late evenings if necessary.
He said that there would be no advarce booking for all types of railway tickets.
Saturday, March JO, 1974
- 4 -
RETIREMENT OF SENIOR CLERICAL OFFICER
Mr. Lau Chi-him, Senior Clerical Officer, of the Waterworks Office, will be retiring shortly after 33 years1 service with the government# ' • • 1 r ‘ .
To mark his retirement, Mr. W.T. Knight, Director of Waiter Supplies, will present a farewell gift to Mr. Lau on behalf of the staff of Waterworks on Monday (April 1).
Mr. Lau joined the civil service in 1941 as a jinn or clerk#
He was promoted to his present post in 1965.
Note to Editors: You are welcome to send a reporter and/or
photographer to cover the presentation ceremony which will take place at the P.W.D. Conference room, 21st floor, Murray Building, Garden Road, at 4.30 p.m. on Monday (April 1).
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NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN MID-LEVELS
New traffic arrangements will be introduced in Breezy Path and
Hi^i Street next week 57 connection with the mid-levels traffic scheme.
Starting from 10 a.m. on Wednesday (April 3), the section of Breessy Path between Pork Road and the entrance to the Nethersole Hospital quarters will be re-routed one-way from Park Road towards Bonham Rood.
At the same time, the section of High Street between Polfulam Road and the Police Station (Upper Level) will be re-routed one-way from Pokfulam Road towards Bonham Road.
Appropriate traffic signs will be-erected to gudie motorists.
... » • < ------0----------
Saturday, March 30, 197^
5 -
EFFECTS OF INFLATION IN WORLD TRADE
********
Note to Editors: Mr, Chau Tak-hay, a Hong Kong delegate
to the 30th plenary session of the Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East (ECAFE) in Colombo, today spoke about the effects of world inflation and the shortage and high prices of oil on world trade.
Copies of the full text of his speech will be distributed separately in the G.I.S. press boxes this afternoon.
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SUNDAY D.I.B.
******
Noto to Editors: There will be an issue of the D.'.ily
Information Bulletin tomorrow (Sunday). Copies will be available for collection at 3 p*m* that day from the G.I.S. Press Room on the 6th floor of Beaconsfield House.
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4
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
Sunday, March $1, 1974
INCREASE IN MEDICAL SUBVENTIONS $55*6 Mil li on More For Recurrent And Capital Costs To Institutions Hr*****
Twenty-three assisted medical institutions in the voluntary sector, and seven private hospitals receiving rates refunds, are to get a total of 3165*7 million to help meet thier recurrent and capital expenditure in the new financial year beginning tomorrow (April 1).
This represents an increase of $28.5 million on the approved estimate for the financial year ending on March 51• or $55.6 million on actual expenditure incurred during the financial year 1972-73.
The 23 institutions include two recently-opened hospitals, the Yan Chai in Tsuen Wan, and the United Christian in Kwun Tong.
The largest beneficiary is the Tung Wah group of hospitals, whose approved annually recurrent estimate for the present financial year is $59<3 million, but which will be receiving $77.2 million in the new financial year.
The United Christian Hospital, which has no approved annual1y recurrent estimate this year because it was still under consideration, will get the next biggest slice of the total subvention, provisionally assessed at $13.2 million.
Under special expenditure, the Kwong Wah Hospital of the Tung Wah group will receive $7.9 million for a new clinical pathology building, and the main Tung Wah Hospital the remaining balance of $3*5 million for itsnew centenary block.
/In recurrent •••••••
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
Sunday, March 31, 1974
- 2 -
In recurrent expenditure itself, there is a net increase of S41»2 million over the approved estimate for the 1972-73•
The 23 assisted institutions are subverted on the basis of three typos of grant — the deficiency grant, the cost-per-bed, and the lump sum. In the case of a deficiency grant, the subvention is designed to meet the difference between a subverted institution’s approved expenditure for a programme of activities approved by the Government, and its income from other sources. The grant used to ensure that services, which the Government would otherwise bo providing, are in fact provided. The Financial Secretary is represented on the boards of deficiency grant institutions, and they are required to work to approved detailed budgets.
Institutions subvented on the deficiency grant basis include the followings -
Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital
Society for the Aid and Rehabilitation of Drug Addicts Tung Wah Group of Hospitals United Christian Hospital
The cost-per-bed and the lump sum are varieties of a discretionary grant. Those grants arc designed to assist the institutions concerned to moot the cost of specific types of medical services, or of hospital bods which the Government considers on medical grounds should be brought into the A public sector to meet the needs of those unable to afford unsubsidised inpatient treatment, t • /In this way, ...............................................................
Sunday, March 1974
- 3 -
• '» T • ■
In this way, these grants help certain institutions provide services to the extent that these services play their part in the overall provision of medical and health services in Hong Kong.
The grant is calculated either having regard to the cost up to a determined ceiling on the number of subventable beds — cost-per—bed — or having regard to the estimated income and expenditure of the insti tut ions concerned and to the extent to which its activities are considered to be subvention-worthy — lump sura.
Institutions subvented on the cost-per—bed basis include the following: -
Caritas Medical Centre
Haven of Hope Tuberculosis Sanatorium
Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society
Hong Kong Anti-Tuberculosis and Thoracic Diseases Association Hong Kong Buddhist Hospital Our Lady of Maryknoll Hospital Pok Oi Hospital
Society for the Relief of Disabled Children
The Hong Kong Association for Mentally Handicapped Children and Young Persons Ltd.
Yan Chai Hospital
Institutions subvented on the lump-sura basis include the foil-owing: -Cheshire Home Family Planning Association of Hong Kong Hong Kong Red Cross : (1) Blood Bank
(2) John F. Kennedy Centro
(3) Margaret Trench School
(4) Princess Alexandra Residential School
(3) Tsz Wan Shan School
/liong Kong ••••»••
Sunday, March 197^
- 4 -
Hong Kong Society for Rehabilitation Leprosy Mission, Hong Kong Auxiliary St. John Ambulance Brigade
Bureau of Hygiene and Tropical Diseases
London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine School Medical Service
The seven private hospitals receiving rates refunds are: -
Adventist Sanatorium and Hospital
Baptist Hospital
Evangel Medical Centre
Matilda and War Memorial Hospital
Precious Blood Hospital
Canossa Hospital St. Teresa’s Hospital.
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Sunday, March J1, 197^
- 5 -
SPECIAL HOLIDAY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN NEW TERRITORIES
******
Motorists travelling to various parts of the New Territories should find their journey times reduced with the introduction next Friday (April 5) of special holiday traffic arrangements on two major roads — Castle Peak Road and Clearwater Bay Road.
On Castle Peak Road, an experimental traffic management scheme is being implemented on Sundays and public holidays to reduce traffic congestion.
Initially it will be in operation for two months and during this time, goods vehicles will not be permitted to travel on Castle Peak Road between its junction with Sha Tsui Road in Tsuen Wan and Causeway Road in Tuen Mun between the hours of 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.
A spokesman for the Transport Department said today that the scheme, which was first announced early in February, was intended to reduce congestion caused by slow moving lorries and by heavy vehicles broaiding down.
It would also give priority to passenger transport for a few hours to enable people to have reasonably quick access to beaches and other recreational areas along this section of Castle Peak Road.
He emphasised that with the implementation of the scheme there would still not be a total ban on the movement of goods vehicles to and fi*om the western side of the New Territories; alternative routes are available on Tai Po Road, Route Twisk, and on Castle Peak Road outside the restricted hours.
Also on Friday (April 5) the annual summer Clearwater Bay Road restrictions on goods vehicles will come into operation.
/From April 5 •••••••
Sunday, March 31, 1972*
- 6 -
From April 5 until October 28, 1974, all goods vehicles travelling in an easterly (uphill) direction will be prohibited from using Clearwater Bay Road from its junction with Lung Cheung Road to Fei Ngor Shan Road on Sundays and public holidays between 9 a.m. and 12 noon, unless authorised in writing by the Commissioner for Transport.
This measure, which has operated successfully during the past few summers, is also aimed at reducing congestion caused by slow moving vehicles on this section of road.
Owners of goods vehicles requiring to use these sections of Castle Peak Road and Clearwater Bay Road during the restricted hours should apply in writing to the Transport Department. Permits will only be issued where movement of goods vehicles during the restricted hours is absolutely necessary.
Appropriate traffic signs will be erected to guide motorists.
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Sunday, March 3% 197^
7 -
PRICE INCREASE FOR SOFT DRINKS JUSTIFIED
»«««*«*«
The Director of Commerce and Industry, Mr. David Jordan, has agreed that heavy cost increases justify a rise in the price of soft drinks.
In February 1973 the Beverage Manufacturers Association of Hong Kong demonstrated to the Government that unless the duty on table waters was abolished a price increase would be inevitable.
They undertook, however, that if the duty was abolished they would keep their prices unchanged at least until April 1, 197^. They also said that even after April 1, 197^ they would not increase thier prices for at least another year unless they encountered exceptional increases in costs.
The cost inflation of 1973 has however seriously affected the beverage-manufacturers. The price of sugar, for instance - a major ingredient of soft drinks - increased 90 per cent between February 1973 and March 197^* Wages and other costs have also increased substantially. - -
After a detailed examination of these cost increases it was clear to the Director that the scale of increases had been such that a price increase was justified.
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/8.......
Sunday, March 31 ♦ 197^
- 8 -
NEW CLEARWAY RESTRICTION HOURS
«««»***
Clearway restriction hours on certain roads in Kwun Tong will be re-adjusted on Tuesday (April 2). ;
t
Affected by the re-arrangements are Kwun Tong Road and the adjacent sections of Elegance Road, Hip Wo Street and Hoi Yuen Road®
With effect from that day the restriction hours will be daily between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p*m., instead of 7*30 €unu to 10 a.m. and from 3 p»m. to 7 p.m.
The associated clearway restrictions on public light buses on parts of Choi Shek Lane, Ngau Tau Kok Road, Shing Shun Road, Ting Fu Street and Hong Ning Road will be changed in the same way.
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NEW DIB FORMAT FROM TOMORROW
*««»***
Note to Editors: Today’s English edition of the Daily
Information Bulletin is the last to appear in its present form. As from tomorrow (Monday, April 1) the DIB will appear in a new format and will be received by those who completed and returned their applications by the February 27 deadline•
The new DIB format is being adopted as an economy measure in view of the worldwide paper shortage.
From tomorrow, the new DIB will consist of printed news items in the same form as they are sent through the teleprinter.
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/9........
Kp . • .s ; *• . ' . . . •
Sunday, March 31, 197^
- 9 -
REHABILITATION WEEK LEADS TO GREATER PUBLIC AWARENESS
The Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose, said today that he hoped that Hong Kong’s Rehabilitation Week would lead to practical results#
Hie week-long programme of activities with its theme of Opportunity for Ability, shall have helped to make the community more aware of what the disabled can do, he said.
He noted that more than 5^000 people had visited the Exhibition staged on three days last week at the City Hall and that in addition the Joint Council for the Physically and Mentally Handicapped had organised a mobile display which drew large numbers of visitors# nIhc disabled look to us for opportunities to take part in normal working life# The public have now been able to see for themselves the remarkable skills which these less fortunate citizens can practice,n Sir Murray said#
nWe now need the co-operation of the public and partici11 nrly of employers in affording the handicapped an opportunity to show what they can do#n
His Excellency also noted that people with a wide range of ♦ disabilities had recently been placed in jobs as clerks, machine-.sewers 3 apprentices, type setters, assemblers and as a lift operator and a telephonist.
He pledged that the Job Placement Unit of the Rehahi 1 i tn.tion Di vis inn of the Social Welfare Department would continue to play an active and positive role in promoting the placement of handicapped people and in seeking to * secure the fullest co-operation of employers in this.
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