DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES
BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL 5-233191
SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
ENUMERATORS PREPARE FOR PILOT CENSUS ............... 1
DRIER SUMMER PREDICTED ............................. 1
SPECIAL CAR NOS FETCH 3415 100 ..................... 2
LOOKING FOR POTENTIAL FIR3iEi’ ..................... 2
MINOR STAFF VACANCIES IN GOVERNMENT ................ 3
HANDICAPPED STUDENTS WELCOMED AT TECHNICAL INSTITUTES ........................................ 11
MORE SCOPE FOR CONTROLLED REFUSE TIPPING ........... 4
WATER DRAIN DIVERTED FOR FERRY TERMINAL............. 5
FIRING PRACTICE .................................... 5
MAXICABS RE-ROUTED
5
SATURDAY, MARCH 1, i960
1
ENUMERATORS PREPARE FOR PILOT CENSUS *****
ENUMERATORS OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TOOK THEIR OATH OF SECRECY FOR THE COMING PILOT LAND POPULATION CENSUS THIS MORNING. THE PILOT CENSUS WILL BEGIN NEXT FRIDAY (MARCH 7) AND END ON MARCH 16.
THE SECRECY OATH IS ONE OF THE STEPS BY WHICH THE DEPARTMENT ENSURES THAT INFORMATION SUPPLIED BY INDIVIDUALS PARTICIPATING IN THE CENSUS WILL BE TREATED AS STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL, AND WILL NEVER BE DISCLOSED TO ANY PERSON OR ORGANISATION OUTSIDE THE DEPARTMENT.
THE DATA WILL BE PROCESSED BY COMPUTER AND ANALYSED IN AGGREGATED FORM. NO INDIVIDUAL PARTICULARS CAN BE IDENTIFIED. BESIDES, ALL CENSUS SCHEDULES, WHICH DO CONTAIN THE NAMES OF INDIVIDUALS, ARE REQUIRED BY LAW TO BE DESTROYED WITHIN A YEAR AFTER THE CENSUS.
SOME 20 000 HOUSEHOLDS FROM VARIOUS TYPES OF LIVING QUARTERS HAVE BEEN RANDOMLY SELECTED FOR THE PILOT CENSUS. THESE HOUSEHOLDS ARE LOCATED IN ELEVEN DISTRICTS! WESTERN AND SHAU KI WAN/CHAI WAN ON HONG KONG ISLAND- TSIM SHA TSUI, CHEUNG SHA WAN, KOWLOON TONG AND KOWLOON CITY/WONG TAI SIN IN KOWLOON- AND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES TSUEN WAN NEW TOWN, YUEN LONG, SAI KUNG/HANG HAU, TAI PO AND ISLANDS DISTRICT.
EXCEPT FOR THOSE WHO ARE LIVING IN TEMPORARY STRUCTURES AND UNLESS THERE ARE POSTAL DIFFICULTIES, THEY SHOULD NOW BE RECEIVING A NOTIFICATION LETTER FROM THE DEPARTMENT ENLISTING THEIR CO-OPERATION IN THIS PILOT CENSUS OPERATION. ANYONE WHO HAS ANY QUERIES CAN TELEPHONE THE DEPARTMENT AT 5-439189.
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DRIER SUMMER PREDICTED
* * *
THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY PREDICTED TODAY THAT THE RAINFALL FOR THE COMING SUMMER WILL BE LESS THAN THAT IN THE PREVIOUS TWO SUMMERS.
THE MAY TO OCTOBER RAINFALL THIS YEAR IS FORECAST TO LIE WITHIN THE RANGE 1 600 - 2 000 MILLIMETRES, CORRESPONDING TO 17 PER CENT BELOW TO FOUR PER CENT ABOVE THE 30-YEAR NORMAL OF 1 924 MILLIMETRES.
THE RAINFALL AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY FOR THE SAME PERIOD IN 1978 AND 1979 AMOUNTED TO 2 102.0 AND 2 242.4 MILLIMETRES RESPECTIVELY.
THE RAINFALL FOR THE YEAR 1980 AS A WHOLE IS EXPECTED TO BE WITHIN THE RANGE 1 900 - 2 300 MILLIMETRES, THAT IS, FROM 15 PER CENT BELOW TO TWO PER CENT ABOVE THE AVERAGE OF 2 246 MILLIMETRES.
IF NECESSARY THIS PRELIMINARY FORECAST WILL BE UPDATED IN MAY WHEN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION BECOMES AVAILABLE.
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SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 1980
2
SPECIAL CAR NOS FETCH $415 100 * ft * *
THIRTY SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBERS WERE SOLD BY AUCTION THIS MORNING FOR A TOTAL OF $415 100 WHICH WILL GO INTO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY PURPOSES.
THE AUCTION, HELD IN THE LECTURE HALL OF THE CITY HALL, SAW THE REGISTRATION NUMBER CD1 FETCH THE HIGHEST PRICE OF $90 000.
ANOTHER NUMBER CD68 WAS SOLD AT THE SECOND HIGHEST PRICE OF $50 000 WHILE THE LOWEST PRICE WAS $1 000 FOR CC5224, CC564, AND CC9616.
THE OTHER REGISTRATION NUMBERS WERE SOLD AT THE FOLLOWING PRICES:
CC988 CC993 85 000 $4 200 CC4 AA987 $17 000 $13 000
CD11 $30 000 CC718 $4 000
CC288 $20 000 CC28O $30 000
CC333O $2 000 CC380 $12 000
CC25 $16 000 CC2892 $2 200
CC810 $4 000 CC3O8 $4 500
CC912 81 500 CC322 $9 100
CC103 85 000 CC73O 85 100
CC2 $30 000 CC672 $1 100
CC178 $5 500 AZ898 $25 500
CC911 $6 200 CC484 812 000
CB31 $7 200
THE NUMBERS AUCTIONED WILL BE ASSIGNED ONLY TO VEHICLES REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE DATE OF AUCTION.
TODAY’S SALE, THE 51ST ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973, BROUGHT THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF MONEY FOR CHARITY REALISED SO FAR TO $11 971 332.
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LOOKING FOR POTENTIAL FIREMEN ft ft ft ft
THE FIRE SERVICES WILL LAUNCH A FROM MONDAY (MARCH 3) TO TIE IN WITH
FOUR-WEEK RECRUITING DRIVE ITS EXPANSION PROGRAMME.
-I-WE EXCITING TODAY.
THE WHO WANT
ARE LOOKING FOR PHYSICALLY FIT YOUNG MEN AND CHALLENGING CAREER,* A FIRE SERVICES
INTERESTED IN AN SPOKESMAN SAID
0N ENERGETIC and responsible young men A JOB THAT IS OUT OF THE ORDINARY TO COME FORWARD.
^PROMOTION PROSPECTS FOR THOSE WHO ARE PREPARED TO WORK HARD ADDEDTUDY T° BEC0ME QUALIFIED FOR HIGHER POSTS ARE VERY GOOD,* HE
THREE RECRUITMENT CENTRES WILL BE SET UP ON THE ISLAND IN KOWLOON AND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES. THEY WILL OPERATE AT THE E'RE STATION, WEST OF WAN CHAI FERRY PIER- TSIM SHA TSUI FIRE STATION ON CANTON ROAD, AND TSUEN WAN FIRE STATION ON TAI CHUNG ROAD. OPENING HOURS ARE FROM 10 AM TO 6 PM (EXCEPT SUNDAY).
/THE SPOKESMAN .....
SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 19^0
5
THE SPOKESMAN SAID APPLICANTS SHOULD PREFERABLY BE AGED BETWEEN 18 AND 30 AND HAVE LIVED IN HONG KONG FOR A CONTINUOUS PERIOD OF AT LEAST FIVE YEARS. HOWEVER, YOUNGER MEN OF OVER 17 WILL BE CONSIDERED.
♦APPLICANTS SHOULD SPEAK FLUENT CANTONESE AND BE ABLE TO READ AND WRITE CHINESE. THEY SHOULD BE AT LEAST FIVE FOOT SIX, WEIGH 120 POUNDS OR MORE AND HAVE GOOD PHYSIQUE AND NORMAL EYESIGHT,* SAID THE SPOKESMAN.
RECRUITS WILL BE TRAINED FOR GENERAL FIRE-FIGHTING AND RESCUE DUTIES.
A FIREMAN STARTS WITH A MINIMUM SALARY OF $1 610 RISING TO A MAXIMUM OF $2 440. AN INCREMENT WILL BE AWARDED ON SATISFACTORY COMPLETION OF 26 WEEKS’ BASIC TRAINING AT PAT HEUNG TRAINING SCHOOL.
APPLICANTS CALLING AT THE CENTRES SHOULD BRING THEIR IDENTITY CARDS, A DULY COMPLETED APPLICATION FORM (G.F. 340) OBTAINABLE FROM ANY CITY DISTRICT OFFICE, AND ACADEMIC DOCUMENTS (UP TO PRIMARY SIX STANDARD).
THEY ARE ALSO REQUESTED TO PROVIDE THEIR OWN RUBBER GYMNASTIC SHOES AND SHORTS FOR A PHYSICAL FITNESS TEST.
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MINOR STAFF VACANCIES IN GOVERNMENT ft * * * *
MORE THAN 500 MINOR STAFF VACANCIES EXIST IN VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
POSTS AVAILABLE UNDER WHAT IS KNOWN AS THE +MODEL 1 PAY SCALE* RANGE FROM THOSE FOR LABOURERS, HOSPITAL ORDERLIES AND AMAHS TO SKILLED WORKERS SUCH AS FITTERS AND AIR-CONDITIONING MECHANICS.
THE POSTS CARRY A PAY SCALE FROM |1 175 TO Si 800, IN ADDITION TO FREE MEDICAL SERVICES.
APPLICATIONS ARE MADE THROUGH THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (LES) WHICH HAS BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR RECRUITING MINOR STAFF INTO THE CIVIL SERVICE SINCE NOVEMBER 1978.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY THAT APPLICANTS SHOULD CALL AT ONE OF THE LES’S 13 BRANCH OFFICES, BRINGING WITH THEM THEIR IDENTITY CARDS.
A FULL LIST OF THE MODEL 1 PAY SCALE POSTS IS AVAILABLE AT THESE OFFICES.
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT ANYONE INTERESTED IN A POST FOR WHICH A VACANCY WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE, MIGHT ALSO REGISTER WITH THE LES.
♦WHEN THE VACANCY ARISES, WE WILL CONTACT THE APPLICANT IMMEDIATELY BY LETTER OR TELEPHONE.♦
ENQUIRIES ABOUT APPLICATION FOR MODEL 1 PAY SCALE POSTS CAN BE MADE ON TELEPHONE 3-683764 OR 3-666615.
SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 1980
4
HANDICAPPED STUDENTS WELCOMED AT TECHNICAL INSTITUTES
M * * * *
HANDICAPPED PEOPLE IN HONG KONG ARE A VALUABLE SOURCE OF GENERALLY UNTAPPED MANPOWER WHICH CAN PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN OUR COMMUNITY, SAID MR DAN WATERS, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (TECHNICAL), THIS (SATURDAY) EVENING.
MR WATERS WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE MUSIC CONTEST ORGANISED BY THE JOINT TECHNICAL INSTITUTE STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION AT THE KWAI CHUNG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE.
♦ HAND I CAPPED PEOPLE GENERALLY ARE RELIABLE AND DEDICATED TO THEIR JOBS. THEY CAN BE DEPENDED UPON SOMETIMES EVEN MORE THAN NORMAL PEOPLE,* HE SAID.
MR WATERS NOTED THAT A NUMBER OF YOUNG DESERVING PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED PEOPLE HAD JOINED COURSES IN THE TECHNICAL INSTITUTES AND WERE MAKING GOOD PROGRESS. THESE STUDENTS WERE INTEGRATED INTO NORMAL CLASSES.
*1 AM SURE ALL OF YOU HERE THIS EVENING WILL AGREE WITH ME WE SHOULD WELCOME SUCH STUDENTS INTO OUR INSTITUTES AND THAT WE HOPE THAT OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS THE NUMBER OF HANDICAPPED STUDENTS IN THE INSTITUTES WILL INCREASE,* HE SAID.
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MORE SCOPE FOR CONTROLLED REFUSE TIPPING
* * * *
FACILITIES FOR TIPPING OF REFUSE AT SHUEN WAN, OFF TING KOK ROAD IN TAI PO, WILL STILL BE AVAILABLE WITH THE OPENING OF THE FOURTH PHASE OF CONTROLLED TIPPING WORKS.
THE FIRST AND SECOND PHASES OF THE EXISTING SHUEN WAN CONTROLLED TIP HAD ALREADY BEEN COMPLETED AND WORK ON THE THIRD PHASE IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED NEXT MONTH.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE PWD SAID THAT IN THE FOURTH PHASE, FILLING (F THE CONTROLLED TIP WOULD CONTINUE TOGETHER WITH ASSOCIATED DRAINAGE WORKS.
♦WHEN THE ENTIRE TIP IS FILLED TO ITS DESIGNED CAPACITY BY SANITARY LANDFILL METHOD IN LATE 1982, A TOTAL 5.9 HECTARES OF OPEN SPACE WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE FOR RECREATIONAL AND AMENITY USES.
♦SANITARY LANDFILL CONSISTS OF THE SPREADING OF REFUSE IN LAYERS, COVERING EACH LAYER WITH INERT EARTH AS TIPPING PROCEEDS, AND SEALING OFF ALL WORKING FACES AT THE CONCLUSION OF EACH DAY’S WORK TO OBVIATE NOXIOUS SMELLS, CONTROL VERMIN AND ELIMINATE HEALTH AND FIRE HAZARDS,* HE ADDED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT COVERING MATERIAL FOR THE SHUEN WAN TIP WOULD BE OBTAINED FROM AN ADJACENT BORROW AREA WHERE ABOUT 2.3 HECTARES OF LAND WOULD BE FORMED FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT.
/THE FOURTH...
SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 1980
5
THE FOURTH PHASE OF TIPPING WORKS, FOR WHICH TENDERS ARE BEING INVITED, IS EXPECTED TO START IN APRIL AND BE COMPLETED BY DECEMBER NEXT YEAR.
THE DEVELOPMENT AND AIRPORT DIVISION OF THE PWD’S CIVIL ENGINEERING OFFICE HAS DESIGNED THE WORKS AND WILL SUPERVISE CONSTRUCTION.
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WATER DRAIN DIVERTED FOR FERRY TERMINAL
*****
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE DIVERSION OF THE STORM WATER DRAIN NEAR THE MACAU FERRY TERMINAL TO MAKE WAY FOR THE FUTURE NEW TERMINAL COMPLEX.
THE CONTRACT WILL INCLUDE THE LAYING OF ABOUT 195 METRES OF STORM WATER DRAIN WITH A DIAMETER OF 2 100 MM AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF A SEAWALL OUTLET.
WORK ON THE PROJECT WILL START IN APRIL AND TAKE ABOUT SEVEN MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
THE WORKS HAVE BEEN DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTION WILL BE SUPERVISED BY THE HIGHWAYS OFFICE, PWD.
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FIRING PRACTICE * * * *
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE HA TSUEN-CASTLE PEAK RANGE NEXT WEEK ON MONDAY AND TUESDAY (MARCH 3 AND 4) FROM 7 AM TO 5 PM.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WARNED NOT TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN RED FLAGS ARE FLYING DURING THE TIME OF PRACTICE.
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MAX I CABS RE-ROUTED * * * *
TWO HONG KONG ISLAND MAXICAB ROUTES, NOS 6 AND 10. WILL BE RE-DIRECTED VIA ADMIRALTY STATION FROM MONDAY (MARCH 3) TO ALLOW PASSENGERS TO INTERCHANGE WITH THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY.
UNDER THIS ARRANGEMENT, MAXICABS ON ROUTE NO 6 (STAR FERRY TO SHOUSON HILL ROAD AND OCEAN PARK), AND ROUTE NO 10 (CAUSEWAY BAY TO SCENIC VILLA AND SANDY BAY) WILL PICK UP AND SET DOWN PASSENGERS NEAR THE WESTERN BUS TERMINAL AT ADMIRALTY STATION.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO,
CHANGE IN LEISURE HABITS .............................. 1
SURVEY CN CHILDREN'S DENTAL HEALTH ...................... 3
EXCITING CHANGES IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT' .................. 4
PHAB PHILOSOPHY COMMENDED ............................... 5
PRINTING INDUSTRY MANPOWER SURVEY BEGINS TOMORROW ................................................ 6
EMPLOYMENT SURVEY ON FINANCING AND OTHER SERVICES ................................................ 7
FURTHER DEVELOPMENT AT ABERDEEN RECLAMATION ............. 8
NEW ROADS FOR HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME ..................... 8
KENT ROAD TRAFFIC RE-ROUTED .......................... 9
SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 1980
1
CHANGE fN LEISURE HABITS
*****
THERE HAS BEEN A FUNDAMENTAL CHANGE IN THE LEISURE HABITS OF HONG KONG PEOPLE SINCE THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE (RSS) WAS SET UP IN 1974.
LAST YEAR, OVER 439 000 PEOPLE TOOK PART IN TRAINING PROGRAMMES RUN BY THE SERVICE. THE 3 599 DIFFERENT PROGRAMMES CATERED FOR ALMOST ALL SECTIONS OF THE POPULATION — HOUSEWIVES, PROFESSIONALS, FACTORY HANDS, OFFICE WORKERS, BUSINESSMEN, AND EVEN CHINESE OPERA SINGERS.
SU£H WAS THE DEMAND FOR PLACES THAT THOUSANDS OF LATE APPLICANTS HAD TO BE DISAPPOINTED.
THE MOST POPULAR ACTIVITIES INCLUDED TAI CHI, TENNIS, AND CAMPING AT THE RSS’S OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTRE IN SAf KUNG. BUT THERE WAS NO LACK OF APPLICANTS FOR UNUSUAL COURSES L^IKE +FITNESS THROUGH JAZZ DANCE*, AND ♦PHYSICAL FITNESS ON THE SPECIAL GYM MACHINE*.
♦THE ATTENDANCE FIGURES ARE IMPRESSIVE,* SAID MR DICKEN YUNG, PRINCIPAL RECREATION AND SPORT OFFICER, +BUT THE RSS IS NOT A bERE MASS PRODUCTION UNIT. EVERY ACTIVITY WE ORGANISE HAS ITS OWN SPECIFIC PURPOSE. EVERY PROGRAMME IS PART OF OUR OVERALL SCHEME TO OFFER ’RECREATION FOR ALL’ TO THE COMMUNITY.*
THIS RECREATION-FOR-ALL CONCEPT MEANS THAT PROGRAMMES, INCLUDING BOTH LAND AND WATER SPORTS, ARE DESIGNED TO CATER FOR ALL KINDS OF PEOPLE — MEN AND WOMEN, YOUNG AND OLD, ABLE-BODIED AND HANDICAPPED. +WE EVEN DEVISED A WATER SAFETY COURSE FOR BABIES, AND SWIMMING CLASSES FOR THE ELDERLY,* SAID MR YUNG.
♦CLASSES ARE HELD AT VARIOUS TIMES OF THE DAY, FROM EARLY MORNING TO LATE AT NIGHT. THAT WAY, WE OFFER EVERYONE A CHANCE TO TAKE PART,* HE ADDED.
BUT RECREATION-FOR-ALL IS AN IMPOSSIBLE GOAL FOR ONE AGENCY ALONE TO ATTAIN. AND A MAJOR PART OF RSS EFFORTS INVOLVES WORKING HAND-IN-HAND WITH SPORTS ORGANISATIONS AND OTHER VOLUNTARY SERVICES TO BRING ABOUT, IN MR YUNG’S WORDS, *A GENERAL IMPROVEMENT IN THE QUALITY OF RECREATIONAL SERVICE THROUGHOUT HONG KONG.*
♦RAISING THE LEVEL OF FITNESS - AND WITH IT THE QUALITY OF LIFE - IS NOT JUST A MATTER OF GETTING PEOPLE OUT OF THE HOUSE OR OFF THE STREETS FOR AN HOUR OR TWO A WEEK,+ HE CONTINUED.
♦WE SEE OURSELVES MORE AS A CATALYST, STIMULATING INTEREST IN RECREATION AND SPORT ON TWO FRONTS. ON THE ONE HAND, WITH OUR REGULAR PROGRAMMES WE ARE HELPING TO BUILD UP A POOL OF PEOPLE WITH BASIC TRAINING AND MOTIVATION TO PASS ON THEIR SKILLS TO OTHERS.
♦ON THE OTHER HAND, WITH THE KIND OF BIG EVENTS WHICH RSS IS WELL-EQUIPPED TO ORGANISE, WE PROVIDE NEW FOCAL POINTS IN WHICH COMMUNITY LEADERS CAN CONTRIBUTE THEIR RESOURCES TOWARDS WORTHWHILE COMMUNITY BUILDING ACTIVITIES.♦
/ONE SPORT ..
SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 1980
2
ONE SPORT WHERE RSS COACHING COURSES HAVE PROVED VERY SUCCESSFUL IS FOOTBALL. *ALL THE PREPARATORY WORK WE PUT IN CERTAINLY PAID OFF,* SAID MR YUNG. +OUR JOINT PROGRAMME WITH THE HK FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION HAS GENERATED 14 OOO PLACES FOR KEEN YOUNG SOCCER PLAYERS TO GET SOME BASIC TRAINING. BUT EVEN THIS IS NOT NEARLY ENOUGH, SINCE OVER 20 000 APPLIED.*
A SPECIAL EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO DRAW THE PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY HANDICAPPED INTO SPORTING ACTIVITIES. FOR THEM THE RSS ORGANISES SPECIAL GAMES DAYS AND WALKATHONS. AMONG PARTICIPANTS IN THF POPIHAR TAI CHI TRAINING PROGRAMMES ARE PATIENTS AT CASTLE PEAK HOSPITAL,
TOGETHER WITH A COMMERCIAL FIRM, RSS HAS ORGANISED A SERIES OF WOMEN’S GAMES. *WE WANTED TO ENCOURAGE MORE WOMEN AND GIRLS TO TAKE TO THE SPORTS TRACK,* SAID MR YUNG. +AS IT HAPPENED THEY DID NOT NEED MUCH PROMPTING. WE HAD OVER 2 000 PARTICIPANTS IN LAST YEAR’S GAMES.*
THROUGH ITS DISTRICT OFFICES, RSS CONDUCTS PROGRAMMES IN ALL PARTS OF THE URBAN AREA AND THE NEW TERRITORIES. EVEN SMALL
VILLAGES AND OUTLYING ISLANDS ARE INCLUDED, THROUGH A SPECIAL •♦REMOTE VILLAGES PROGRAMME*.
IT HAS BEEN MAKING VIGOROUS EFFORTS TO BRING THE MORE EXPENSIVE SPORTS WITHIN THE REACH OF EVERYONE. SCUBA-DIVING, WHICH WOULD NORMALLY SET THE BEGINNER BACK SEVERAL HUNDRED DOLLARS, COSTS A MERE $15 A COURSE — INCLUDING EQUIPMENT HIRE. HOW IS IT DONE? +BASICALLY IT IS A MATTER OF MAXIMISING RESOURCES,* SAID MR YUNG. +THE SUBSIDY AMOUNTS ONLY TO ANOTHER 115 PER PERSON.*
HORSE RIDING TOO IS NORMALLY BEYOND THE MEANS OF MANY, BUT RSS OFFERS LESSONS AT $10 FOR A MORNING OR AFTERNOON IN THE SADDLE.
THE SERVICE HAS RECENTLY BEGUN MOVING BEYOND SINGLE-ACTIVITY PROGRAMMES, TO PROVIDE INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES WITH A CHANCE TO TAKE A BREAK FROM THE DAILY GRIND OF URBAN LIVING.
ONE STEP IN THIS DIRECTION IS A FOUR-DAY EXCURSION FOR PEOPLE IN EMPLOYMENT — ATTRACTIVELY LABELLED +AWAY FROM IT ALL* — A FUN-FILLED YET ECONOMICAL PACKAGE DEAL.
FOR $60 YOU CAN TOUR THE SCENIC SA IKUNG PENINSULA AND LANTAU ISLAND, WITH LAUNCH PICNICS, FOLK DANCING, CANOEING, MOUNTAIN CLCMBING AND OTHER DELIGHTS ALL LAID ON.
THE RSS HAS PENETRATED EVERY LEVEL AND SEGMENT OF OUR COMMUNITY AND BROUGHT SPORT AND RECREATION TO OUR DOORSTEPS. +IT IS ALSO FULFILLING ITS CATALYTIC ROLE IN HELPING THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG ATTAIN A FULLER LIFE THROUGH SUCH HEALTHY PURSUITS,* MR YUNG SAID.
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SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 1980
5
SURVEY ON CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH
* * * * *
ABOUT 7 000 PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN WILL BE GIVEN DENTAL EXAMINATIONS IN THE COURSE OF A SURVEY BEING CONDUCTED BY THE DENTAL SERVICE OF THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THAT THE OBJECT OF THE SURVEY WAS TO MEASURE THE EFFECT OF WATER FLUORIDATION ON DENTAL DECAYS AND TO ASSESS THE STATE OF ORAL HEALTH OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN.
CHILDREN BETWEEN SIX AND 11 FROM 68 PRIMARY SCHOOLS THROUGHOUT HONG KONG WILL BE EXAMINED. SIX TEAMS EACH COMPRISING A DENTAL SURGEON AND TWO ASSISTANTS ARE VISITING THE SELECTED SCHOOLS TO CARRY OUT THE EXAMINATIONS. IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE SURVEY WILL TAKE SIX TO EIGHT WEEKS TO COMPLETE.
THE DENTAL SURGEON WILL EXAMINE THE HARD AND SOFT TISSUE IN AND AROUND THE MOUTH OF THE CHILDREN, MARK DOWN ANY DENTO-FACIAL ANOMALIES, TAKE NOTE OF ANY TOOTH DECAY, AND CARRY OUT OTHER INSPECTIONS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID ALL DATA OBTAINED WILL THEN BE PROCESSED BY COMPUTER AND A PRELIMINARY REPORT OF THE FINDINGS WOULD BE AVAILABLE ABOUT THREE MONTHS 1FTER THE SURVEY.
HE ADDED THAT IN ORDER TO MONITOR THE PROGRESS OF THE WATER FLUORIDATION PROGRAMME AND TO DETECT ANY CHANGE IN THE ORAL HEALTH OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN, SIMILAR SURVEYS WILL BE CARRIED OUT EVERY THREE YEARS.
FLUORIDATION OF LOCAL DRINKING WATER BEGAN IN APRIL, 1961. TWO DENTAL SURVEYS BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROCESS WERE CONDUCTED, ONE IN 1960 AND ONE IN 1962 TO PROVIDE BASELINE DATA FOR FUTURE COMPARISON.
SINCE THEN THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN REGULARLY MONITORING THE EFFECTS OF FLUORIDATION TO PREVENT DENTAL DECAYS AMONG CHILDREN.
A STUDY IN 1968 SHOWED THAT THERE WAS A GENERAL REDUCTION OF 33 PER CENT IN THE INCIDENCE OF DENTAL DECAYS AMONG THOSE ATTENDING GOVERNMENT DENTAL CLINICS.
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A
SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 1980
4
EXCITING CHANGES IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT OMI
THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR JACK CATER, SPEAKING AT THE LAUNCHING OF THE ’KNOW YOUR SOUTHERN DISTRICT’ CAMPAIGN AT THE OCEAN PARK THIS AFTERNOON, SAID APLICHAU HAS CHANGED ALMOST BEYOND RECOGNITION AND WILL CHANGE EVEN MORE.
HE SAID SINCE THE TIME HE CAME TO LIVE AND WORK IN HONG KONG IN 1945, ABERDEEN HAS EMERGED FROM BEING ESSENTIALLY A FISHING PORT TO A SELF-CONTAINED COMMUNITY WITH AN IMPORTANT LIGHT INDUSTRIAL AREA AT WONG CHUK HANG.
THERE HAVE ALSO BEEN GREAT CHANGES IN ITS FISHING INDUSTRY WHICH NOW POSSESSES A MODERN AND EFFICIENT FISHING FLEET BRINGING IN OVER 30 PER CENT OF HONG KONG’S CATCH.
+THE NEW HOUSING ESTATE ON APLICHAU, TOGETHER WITH YUE FAI YUEN, THE HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME AT SHEK PAI WAN AND OTHER LARGE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR, WILL IN A FEW YEARS RAISE THE DISTRICT POPULATION FROM THE PRESENT 230 000 TO AROUND 350 000.
♦THE OPENING OF THE NEW APLICHAU BRIDGE LATER THIS MONTH AND THE COMPLETION OF THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL IN JULY NEXT YEAR WILL NOT ONLY PROVIDE MUCH IMPROVED COMMUNICATION WITH THE NORTH SIDE OF HONG KONG AND WITH KOWLOON, BUT ALSO — AND IMPORTANTLY — ENABLE MORE LAND IN THIS PART OF HONG KONG ISLAND TO BE RELEASED FOR FURTHER DEVELOPMENT,♦ SIR JACK SAID.
HE COMMENDED THE KAIFONG ASSOCIATIONS, RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATIONS, MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES, AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS THE ’KNOW YOUR SOUTHERN DISTRICT’ PROJECT.
♦I EARNESTLY HOPE THAT THIS SPIRIT OF ENTHUSIASM FOR, THIS DEDICATION TO COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT WILL BE SUSTAINED AND DIRECTED TOWARDS A HAPPIER AND FULLER LIFE FOR ALL,* HE SAID.
THE TWO-WEEK CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED TODAY WAS ORGANISED BY THE CDO (SOUTHERN) IN CONJUNCTION WITH LOCAL RESIDENTS AND OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
THE PROGRAMME INCLUDES A SOUTHERN DISTRICT 'PAST AND PRESENT’ EXHIBITION, A WATER CARNIVAL, GAMES, COMPETITIONS, VISITS AND PERFORMANCES.
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/5
SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 1980
5
PHAB PHILOSOPHY COMMENDED ft ft ft ft
INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANISATIONS WERE URGED TODAY (SUNDAY) BY THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR KENNETH TOPLEY, TO ASSIST IN PROMOTING THE PHAB PHILOSOPHY OF MUTUAL CO-OPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE PHYSICALLY DISABLED AND THE ABLE-BODIED.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE PHAB FORTNIGHT ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG PHAB ASSOCIATION AT ITS POKFULAM CENTRE, MR TOPLEY SAID HE WOULD LIKE TO PAY TRIBUTE TO ALL WHO HAVE SO FAR BEEN INVOLVED IN THIS VALUABLE COMMUNITY SERVICE.
STUDENTS, HE FELT, SHOULD PARTICIPATE ON A BROADER SCALE THAN HAS HAPPENED UP TO NOW.
♦THERE IS A GENUINE NEED FOR STUDENTS TO PARTICIPATE BY GIVING ASSISTANCE WITH THE MANY ACTIVITIES WHICH WILL BE GOING ON IN DIFFERENT AREAS OF HONG KONG DURING 1980,+ THE DIRECTOR SAID.
♦THE SUCCESS OF THE PHAB MOVEMENT IN HONG KONG FROM SMALL BEGINNINGS IN 1972, A COMPARATIVELY SHORT TIME AGO, TO THE PRESENT-DAY SCOPE OF ACTIVITIES IS REALLY QUITE REMARKABLE AND I AM PARTICULARLY PLEASED TO HAVE BEEN ASSOCIATED IN SOME SMALL WAY WITH THE MOVEMENT FROM ITS INCEPTION.
♦THERE IS, OF COURSE, MUCH STILL TO BE DONE IN PROMOTING THE CONCEPT OF PHAB IN HONG KONG AND I AM SURE THAT 1980 WILL BE A YEAR OF MUCH ACHIEVEMENT IN THIS DIRECT ION,♦ MR TOPLEY ADDED.
THE PHAB FORTNIGHT WILL INCLUDE PROGRAMMES OF ACTIVITIES INVOLVING SOME 4 000 PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED AND ABLE-BODIED PEOPLE. IT IS THE FIRST MAJOR FUNCTION WHICH THE HONG KONG PHAB ASSOCIATION HAS ORGANISED SINCE THE OPENING OF ITS POKFULAM CENTRE IN 1979 ON LAND GRANTED BY THE GOVERNMENT AND WITH FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB.
SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 1980
6
PRINTING INDUSTRY MANPOWER SURVEY BEGINS TOMORROW *****
THE MANPOWER SURVEY OF THE PRINTING INDUSTRY CONDUCTED BY THE PRINTING INDUSTRY TRAINING BOARD OF THE HONG KONG TRAINING COUNCIL WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT WILL BEGIN TOMORROW (MONDAY).
THE SURVEY, THE FIFTH IN A SERIES, IS AIMED AT COLLECTING UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ON THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS OF THE PRINTING INDUSTRY. IT IS SCHEDULED TO BE COMPLETED ON MARCH 22.
BASED ON THE SURVEY FINDINGS, THE BOARD WILL MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS ON MANPOWER TRAINING FOR THE INDUSTRY.
QUESTIONNAIRES AND EXPLANATORY LETTERS WERE SENT TWO WEEKS AGO TO 500 ESTABLISHMENTS SELECTED BY RANDOM STRATIFIED SAMPLING.
EMPLOYERS OF THE ESTABLISHMENTS WERE REQUESTED TO SUPPLY THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION ON EACH OF THE PRINCIPAL JOBS IN THE INDUSTRY: THE NUMBER OF WORKERS AT PRESENT EMPLOYED, THE NUMBER UNDER TRAINING THE NUMBER OF EXISTING VACANCIES, AND A FORECAST OF THE ADDITIONAL NUMBER OF WORKERS IN THE NEXT 12 MONTHS.
ASSISTANT CENSUS AND SURVEY OFFICERS WILL CALL AT EACH OF THE ESTABLISHMENTS DURING THE SURVEY TO HELP EMPLOYERS COMPLETE THE QUESTIONNAIRES.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD, MR ALEX WU, TODAY URGED THE EMPLOYERS TO OFFER THEIR CO-OPERATION.
+AS THE INFORMATION TO BE COLLECTED FROM THIS SURVEY IS OF VITAL IMPORTANCE FOR FORMULATING MEANINGFUL TRAINING PLANS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE INDUSTRY, THE CO-OPERATION OF THOSE COVERED BY THE SURVEY IS SINCERELY SOUGHT,* HE SAID.
HE STRESSED THAT THE INFORMATION COLLECTED WOULD BE HANDLED IN STRICT CONFIDENCE AND WOULD BE PUBLISHED ONLY IN THE FORM OF STATISTICAL SUMMARIES WITHOUT REFERENCE TO ANY INDIVIDUAL ESTABLISHMENT.
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/7
SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 1980
7
EMPLOYMENT SURVEY ON FINANCING AND OTHER SERVICES *****
THE RESULTS OF AN EMPLOYMENT SURVEY ON FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES FOR THE LAST QUARTER OF 1979 SHOWED THAT 113 389 PEOPLE WERE ENGAGED IN THIS SECTOR OF BUSINESS AS AT NOVEMBER 15, 1979.
RESULTS OF THE SURVEY WERE RELEASED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY.
OF THE PEOPLE ENGAGED IN THE SECTOR, 38 204 WERE IN MONETARY INSTITUTIONS (BANKS AND REPRESENTATIVE OFFICES OF FOREIGN BANKS), 17 172 IN REAL ESTATE COMPANIES/AGENCIES, AND 16 609 IN OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS.
WHEN COMPARED WITH 109 877 PERSONS ENGAGED IN AUGUST 1979, THE INCREASE WAS ABOUT 3 500 PERSONS OR 3.2 PER CENT, AND WHEN COMPARED WITH 98 225 PERSONS ENGAGED IN NOVEMBER 1978, THE INCREASE WAS ABOUT 15 200 PERSONS OR 15.4 PER CENT.
THE MAIN INCREASES FROM AUGUST 1979 TO NOVEMBER 1979 OCCURRED
IN REAL ESTATE COMPANIES/AGENCIES, MONETARY INSTITUTIONS, OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, AND ENGINEERING, ARCHITECTURAL AND TECHNICAL SERVICES, AS SHOWN-BELOWi-
PERSONS PERSONS PERSONS CHANGE OF INDUSTRY ENGAGED IN ENGAGED IN ENGAGED IN NOV 1979 GROUP NOVEMBER 1978 AUGUST 1979 NOVEMBER 1979 OVER AUG 1979
PERSONS %
ENGAGED CHANGE
OTHER
FINANCIAL
INSTITUTIONS 13 163 15 392 16 609 +1 217 +7.9
REAL ESTATE
COMPANIES/
AGENCIES 15 234 16 603 17 172 + 569 +3.4
MONETARY
INSTITUTIONS 33 771 37 752 38 204 + 452 +1.2
ENGINEER ING,
ARCHITECTURAL
AND TECHNICAL
SERVICES 6 149 7 190 7 485 + 295 +4.1
DETAILED FIGURES OF EMPLOYMENT FOR OTHER INDUSTRY GROUPS AND BREAKDOWNS BY INDUSTRY SECTORS ARE OBTAINABLE ON REQUEST FROM THE EMPLOYMENT AND EARNINGS STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
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/8
SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 1980
8
FURTHER DEVELOPMENT AT ABERDEEN RECLAMATION
******
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT WILL BUILD A 500-METRE SEAWALL FOR THE SECOND STAGE OF THE RECLAMATION IN ABERDEEN WHICH WILL ON COMPLETION PROVIDE ABOUT THREE HECTARES OF LAND FOR DEVELOPMENT.
THE RECLAMATION WILL BE OFF ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD BETWEEN WU NAM STREET AND THE NORTHERN APPROACH ROADS TO THE NEW AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE.
THE NEW LAND WILL BE FORMED FOR A ROAD ALONG THE ABERDEEN WATERFRONT, A NEW SEWAGE SYSTEM, LOCAL OPEN SPACE AND OTHER GOVERNMENT USES.
WORK ON THE SEAWALL, TENDERS FOR WHICH ARE BEING INVITED, WILL START IN MAY AND WILL BE COMPLETED BY THE END OF 1982.
THE WORKS HAVE BEEN DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTION WILL BE SUPERVISED BY THE PORTS WORKS DIVISION OF THE PWD’S CIVIL ENGINEERING OFFICE.
- - 0 - -
NEW ROADS FOR HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME
******
NEW ROADS WILL BE BUILT IN YAU TONG TO PROVIDE DIRECT ACCESS TO YAU TONG CENTRE, A HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION.
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THESE ROADS AND ASSOCIATED DRAINS.
A PWD SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY THAT ONE OF THE ROADS WOULD BE ^EXTENSION 0F YAN WING STREET TO THE JUNCTION OF CHA KWO LING ROAD AND SHUNG SHUN STREET.
THIS SECTION OF ROAD WOULD BE ABOUT 230 METRES LONG AND 10.3 METRES WIDE, WITH FOOTPATHS ON BOTH SIDES, HE SAID.
„ M IN ADDITION, A 7.3-METRE WIDE TWO-LANE SERVICE ROAD WILL ALSO BE CONSTRUCTED TO JOIN THE NEW YAN WING STREET EXTENSION.
ta ™3n.E^0JECT W,LL START IN MAY AND TAKE ABOUT EIGHT MONTHS 10 COMPLETE.
THE WORKS HAVE BEEN DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTION WILL BE SUPERVISED BY THE HIGHWAYS OFFICE, PWD. WILL
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/9
SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 1980
9
KENT ROAD TRAFFIC RE-ROUTED
* * * *
TRAFFIC ON THE SECTION OF KENT ROAD BETWEEN SOMERSET ROAD AND SUFFOLK ROAD IN KOWLOON TONG WILL BE RE-ROUTED FROM TWO-WAY TO ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND FROM TUESDAY (MARCH 4).
THE ARRANGEMENT WILL IMPROVE TRAFFIC CIRCULATION IN THE AREA.
TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
AIRBORNE MERCHANDISE TRADE VALUE IN 1979 UP 41 PER CENT ................................................. 1
STANLEY BATHHOUSE TO GET FIRST SOLAR ENERGY WATER HEATING SYSTEM ........................................ 3
EDUCATION CHIEF TOURS PRIMARY SCHOOL........................ *+
SNT OPENS TEMPORARY 3L00D DONOR CENTRE AT TSUEN WAN .................................................. *+
CONTRACT SIGNING FOR NCR’S ELECTRIFICATION SCHEME ...................................................... 5
TEMPORARY WATER CHARGES COLLECTION CENTRES IN NORTHERN DISTRICT ........................................... 5
DIVISIONAL OFFICE OF FACTORY INSPECTORATE TO MOVE THREE FLOORS UP ........................................ 6
WATER CUT IN SHA TIN ......................................... 6
MONDAY, MARCH 3, I960
1
AIRBORNE MERCHANDISE TRADE VALUE IN 1979 UP 41 PER CENT
*****
AIRBORNE MERCHANDISE TRADE IN 1979 WAS VALUED AT $36 691 MILLION, AN INCREASE OF 41 PER CENT COMPARED WITH 1978.
DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY AIR INCREASED BY 36 PER CENT TO $13 608 MILLION AND REPRESENTED 24 PER CENT IN VALUE OF TOTAL DOMESTIC EXPORTS.
AIRBORNE IMPORTS AT $17 007 MILLION AND RE-EXPORTS AT $6 076 MILLION SHOWED INCREASES OF 44 PER CENT AND 45 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
ABOUT 20 PER CENT OF TOTAL IMPORTS AND 30 PER CENT OF TOTAL RE-EXPORTS WERE DESPATCHED BY AIR DURING THE YEAR.
SUMMARY TRADE STATISTICS ON AIRBORNE MERCHANDISE TRADE FOR 1979 WERE RELEASED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY.
THE FOLLOWING TABLE SHOWS HONG KONG’S AIRBORNE DOMESTIC
EXPORTS BY VALUE TO SIX MAJOR 1979 MARKETS. 1978 INCREASE PERCENTAGE
(HK$ MN.) (HK$ MN.) (HK$ MN.) CHANGE
USA 5 631 4 439 ♦ 1 192 ♦ 27
WEST GERMANY 1 609 1 170 ♦ 439 + 38
JAPAN 1 039 721 ♦ 318 + 44
UK 975 652 ♦ 323 ♦ 50
CANADA 398 282 ♦ 116 + 41
SWITZERLAND 397 298 ♦ 99 ♦ 33
BY COMMODITY, INCREASES IN AIRBORNE DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE MAINLY IN WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY $1 397 MILLION OR 57 PER CENT), CLOTHING (BY $705 MILLION OR 19 PER CENT), THERMIONIC, COLD CATHODE AND PHOTO-CATHODE VALVES AND TUBES- PHOTO-CELLS AND TRANSISTORS (BY $343 MILLION OR 40 PER CENT), BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $254 MILLION OR 97 PER CENT), OFFICE MACHINES (BY $117 MILLION OR 64 PER CENT), AND JEWELLERY, GOLDSMITHS’ AND SILVERSMITHS’ WARES AND OTHER ARTICLES OF PRECIOUS OR SEMI-PRECIOUS MATERIALS (BY $110 MILLION OR 21 PER CENT).
FURTHER BREAKDOWN OF COMMODITY BY COUNTRY REVEALED SIGNIFICANT GROWTH IN EXPORTS OF WATCHES AND CLOCKS TO WEST GERMANY (BY $241 MILLION OR 128 PER CENT), USA (BY $216 MILLION OR 31 PER CENT), AND UK (BY $118 MILLION OR 49 PER CENT)- AND IN EXPORTS OF CLOTHING TO USA (BY $174 MILLION OR 10 PER CENT), JAPAN (BY $144 MILLION OR 46 PER CENT), AND WEST GERMANY (BY $113 MILLION OR 16 PER CENT).
/AIRBORNE IMPORTS ..
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 1980
2
AIRBORNE IMPORTS FROM SIX MAJOR SUPPLIERS WERE SHOWN BELOWi
1979 (HK$ MN.) 1978 (HK$ MN.) INCREASE/ DECREASE (HK$ MN.) PERCENTAGE CHANGE
JAPAN 3 586 2 644 ♦ 941 + 36
USA 3 386 2 031 ♦ 1 355 + 67
SWITZERLAND 1 881 1 442 + 439 ♦ 30
UK 998 558 ♦ 440 + 79
ISRAEL 900 961 61 - 6
SINGAPORE 838 519 + 319 + 61
DEMAND FOR AIRBORNE IMPORTS CONTINUED ON AN UPWARD TREND, PARTICULARLY FOR WATCHES AND CLOCKS (INCREASED BY $1 020 MILLION OR 34 PER CENT), THERMIONIC, COLD CATHODE AND PHOTO-CATHODE VALVES AND TUBES, PHOTO-CELLS AND TRANSISTORS (BY $933 MILLION OR 55 PER CENT), PEARLS, PRECIOUS AND SEMI-PRECIOUS STONES (BY $496 MILLION OR 30 PER CENT) AS WELL AS ORGANIC AND INORGANIC COMPOUNDS OF PRECIOUS METALS (BY $184 MILLION OR 172 PER CENT). *
HIGHER VALUES WERE RECORDED OF WATCHES AND CLOCKS FLOWN INTO HONG KONG FROM JAPAN (INCREASED BY $372 MILLION OR 30 PER CENT), SWITZERLAND (BY $282 MILLION OR 25 PER CENT), AND USA (BY $39 MILLION OR 51 PER CENT). INCREASES WERE ALSO REGISTERED IN AIRBORNE IMPORTS OF THERMIONIC, COLD CATHODE AND PHOTO-CATHODE VALVES AND TUBES, PHOTO-CELLS AND TRANSISTORS FROM JAPAN (BY $227 MILLION OR 60 PER CENT), USA (BY $225 MILLION OR 47 PER CENT), AND SINGAPORE (BY $122 MILLION OR 62 PER CENT). ALMOST HALF OF THE PEARLS, PRECIOUS AND SEMI-PRECIOUS STONES FLOWN INTO HONG KONG WERE FROM ISRAEL.
AIRBORNE RE-EXPORTS SHOWED REMARKABLE PERFORMANCE IN THE YEAR WITH SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES REGISTERED IN PEARLS, PRECIOUS AND SEMI-PRECIOUS STONES (BY $419 OR 45 PER CENT), THERMIONIC, COLD CATHODE AND PHOTO-CATHODE VALVES AND TUBES, PHOTO-CELLS AND TRANSISTORS (BY $376 MILLION OR 78 PER CENT), INTERNAL COMBUSTION PISTON ENGINES AND PARTS (BY $71 MILLION OR 75 PER CENT), AND CLOTHING (BY $46 MILLION OR 60 PER CENT).
JAPAN REMAINED THE LARGEST MARKET FOR OUR AIRBORNE RE-EXPORTS WHICH, HOWEVER, SHOWED A DECLINE (BY $88 MILLION OR 7 PER CENT) OVER THE PREVIOUS YEAR. ON THE OTHER HAND, SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN AIRBORNE RE-EXPORTS TO USA (BY $375 MILLION OR 83 PER CENT), SWITZERLAND (BY $157 MILLION OR 158 PER CENT). THAILAND (BY $98 MILLION OR 86 PER CENT), AND WEST GERMANY (BY $89 MILLION OR 95 PER CENT).
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MONDAY, MARCH 3, 1980
3
STANLEY BATHHOUSE TO GET FIRST SOLAR ENERGY WATER HEATING SYSTEM ******
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT IS LAUNCHING A PILOT SCHEME TO USE SOLAR ENERGY TO HEAT WATER.
THE FIRST SOLAR ENERGY WATER HEATING SYSTEM WILL SHORTLY BE INSTALLED IN AN EXISTING PUBLIC BATHHOUSE AT STANLEY MARKET ROAD IN, STANLEY.
A SPOKESMAN FOR PWD’S ARCHITECTURAL OFFICE SAID THAT THE SYSTEM WOULD SUPPLEMENT THE EXISTING HOT WATER SUPPLY PROVIDED BY AN OIL-FIRED BOILER IN WINTER MONTHS.
+THE WORK WILL INCLUDE THE INSTALLATION OF ’SOLAR COLLECTORS’, HOT WATER STORAGE TANK, PIPING, CONTROL VALVES, MEASURING INSTRUMENTS AND PUMPS,+ HE SAID.
+IT IS EXPECTED THAT INSTALLATION WORK WILL BE COMPLETED BY OCTOBER.+
ON COMPLETION, THE SPOKESMAN SAID, HOT WATER WOULD BE PROVIDED THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.
HE ESTIMATED THAT THE PAY-BACK PERIOD FOR THE SYSTEM, CAPABLE OF MEETING ABOUT 80 PER CENT OF THE HOT WATER DEMAND IN WINTER, WOULD BE ABOUT 15 YEARS BASED ON THE RATE OF THE RECENT FUEL PRICE INCREASE.
THE +SOLAR COLLECTORS+ IN THE FORM OF FLAT PLATE MEASURE ABOUT 60 SQUARE METRES. THEY WILL BE INSTALLED ON THE ROOF AND THE SOUTH EXTERNAL WALL OF THE BATHHOUSE AND TILTED TO AN ANGLE CF 40 DEGREES SO THAT MAXIMUM SOLAR ENERGY CAN BE RECEIVED IN WINTER MONTHS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID: +PERFORMANCE OF THE SYSTEM WILL BE CONSTANTLY MONITORED AND FINDINGS WILL BE USED AS GUIDELINES FOR FUTURE SOLAR ENERGY PROJECTS IN HONG KONG.+
IT WAS IN 1977 WHEN THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT FIRST ASKED PWD TO CARRY OUT A FEASIBILITY STUDY OF SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM FOR SWIMMING POOLS AND BATHHOUSES.
IN VIEW OF THE LACK OF EXPERTISE AND SHORTAGE OF STAFF SPECIALISED IN THIS FIELD, PROFESSOR BRUGES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG WAS ENGAGED AS CONSULTANT.
HIS REPORT ON THE FEASIBILITY STUDY OF STANLEY BATHHOUSE WAS COMPLETED IN 1978.
AFTER GIVING DUE CONSIDERATION TO THE FINDINGS AND PROPOSALS IN THE REPORT, THE URBAN COUNCIL DECIDED TO PROCEED WITH THE PROJECT AS RECOMMENDED BY PWD.
+THE SYSTEM HAS BEEN DESIGNED AND INSTALLATION WILL BE SUPERVISED BY PWD’S ARCHITECTURAL OFF ICE,+ THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
- - " ' 0 - - - - A......
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 1980
EDUCATION CHIEF TOURS PRIMARY SCHOOL * * * *
THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR KENNETH TOPLEY, IN HIS ROUTINE INSPECTION OF SCHOOLS THIS (MONDAY) MORNING CALLED AT THE HENNESSY ROAD GOVERNMENT PRIMARY SCHOOL TO CHAT WITH PARENTS QUEUING FOR SCHOOL ADMISSION FORMS FOR THEIR CHILDREN.
MR TOPLEY WAS MET ON ARRIVAL BY THE PRINCIPAL, MR FUNG KAM-PANG. HIS VISIT COINCIDED WITH THE START OF THE TWO-WEEK PERIOD FOR PARENTS SEEKING ADMISSION OF THEIR CHILDREN TO GOVERNMENT AND AIDED PRIMARY SCHOOLS FOR THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR STARTING IN SEPTEMBER.
HE SAW THE CONTINUOUS FLOW OF PARENTS, MAINLY HOUSEWIVES CALLING AT THE SCHOOL TO COLLECT APPLICATION FORMS AND WAS INFORMED BY MR FUNG THAT IN THE FIRST HOUR OVER 400 FORMS WERE ISSUED.
DURING THE PERIOD MARCH 3 TO 17, APPLICATION FORMS FOR PRIMARY 1 TO 6 WILL BE FREELY DISTRIBUTED AT THE VARIOUS SCHOOLS ON THE PRODUCTION OF BIRTH CERTIFICATES OR OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS. CHILDREN NEED NOT ACCOMPANY THEIR PARENTS.
INTERVIEWS FOR.ADMISSION TO PRIMARY 1 WILL TAKE PLACE ON TUESDAY, MARCH 18. SELECTION OF PRIMARY 2 TO 6 APPLICANTS WILL BE HELD ON FRIDAY, MARCH 21.
MR TOPLEY, ACCOMPANIED BY MR FUNG, LATER TOURED THE SCHOOL BUILDING AND WATCHED SEVERAL CLASSES IN SESSION.
THE HENNESSY ROAD GOVERNMENT PRIMARY SCHOOL WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1949. IT WAS REBUILT IN 1963 AND IS PRESENTLY A BI-SESSIONAL SCHOOL. THE AM SESSION HAS OVER 1 000 PUPILS WHILE THE PM SESSION HAS ABOUT 900.
- - 0 - -
SNT OPENS TEMPORARY BLOOD DONOR CENTRE AT TSUEN WAN ******
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES APPEALED TODAY (MONDAY) TO ALL THOSE WHO WERE ABLE TO +GIVE THEIR BLOOD TO SAVE THE LIVES OF OTHERS.*
MR AKERS-JONES WAS OPENING THE FIRST HONG KONG RED CROSS TEMPORARY DONOR CENTRE IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE CENTRE, A FIBRE-GLASS STRUCTURE OF 400 SQUARE FEET, IS LOCATED AT THE JUNCTION OF KWU HANG ROAD AND YEUNG UK ROAD IN TSUEN WAN.
MR AKERS-JONES SAID THE CENTRE REPRESENTED A MAJOR STEP FORWARD IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF BLOOD COLLECTION SERVICE IN HONG KONG BY DECENTRALISING AND THUS MAKING IT POSSIBLE FOR THE PEOPLE CF TSUEN WAN AND IN THE WEST OF THE NEW TERRITORIES TO HAVE EASY ACCESS TO A BLOOD COLLECTION CENTRE.
/HE DESCRIBED
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 1980
5
HE DESCRIBED IT AS +YET ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF THE NEED TO DEVELOP IN THE TOWNS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES A RANGE OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE PEOPLE TO JOIN IN SERVICE TO THEIR FELLOW MEN.
♦I AM SURE THAT THE RESPONSE FROM THE PEOPLE OF TSUEN WAN WILL DEMONSTRATE THE WAY IN WHICH FUTURE EXPANSION OF THE BLOOD COLLECTION SERVICE WILL TAKE PLACE.♦
AT THE OPENING CEREMONY MR AKERS-JONES WAS INVITED BY SIR RUN RUN SHAW, PRESIDENT OF THE HONG KONG RED CROSS, TO PERFORM A RIBBON CUTTING. MR AKERS-JONES LATER DONATED THE FIRST UNIT OF BLOOD TO THE CENTRE.
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NOTE TO EDITORSi
CONTRACT SIGNING FOR KCR’S ELECTRIFICATION SCHEME * ft * ft * *
THE PUBLIC WORJCS DEPARTMENT WILL TOMORROW (TUESDAY) AWARD A KILT I—MILL ION-DOLLAR CONTRACT FOR THE SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF AN OVERHEAD LINE WHICH WILL PROVIDE ELECTRIC POWER TO TRAINS UNDER THE MODERNISATION AND ELECTRIFICATION SCHEME OF THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY.
THE CONTRACT WILL BE SIGNED AT THE PWD HEADQUARTERS CONFERENCE ROOM, 21ST FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, AT 10 AM.
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE CONTRACT SIGNING CEREMONY.
OFFICERS OF THE PWD PUBLICITY UNIT WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST THE PRESS.
-----0------
TEMPORARY WATER CHARGES COLLECTION CENTRES IN NORTHERN DISTRICT ft ft ft ft ft ft
THE DISTRICT OFFICE, NORTH, HAS SET UP TWO TEMPORARY COLLECTION CENTRES IN FANLING AND SHEUNG SHU I FOR PAYMENT BY LOCAL RESIDENTS OF WATER CHARGES FOR THE NOVEMBER-FEBRUARY PERIOD.
THE TWO CENTRES ARE AT THE FANLING RURAL COMMITTEE OFFICE IN LUEN WO HUI AND THE SHEUNG SHUI PUBLIC ENQUIRY CENTRE IN SHEK WU HUI.
THE FANLING CENTRE OPENED TODAY (MONDAY) AND WILL CONTINUE TO RECEIVE PAYMENTS TOMORROW WHILE THE SHEUNG SHUI CENTRE WILL OPERATE ON MARCH 5, 6 AND 7.
COLLECTION HOURS IN BOTH CENTRES WILL BE FROM 9 AM TO 1 PM.
------0 ------ /6..................
6
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 1980
DIVISIONAL OFFICE OF FACTORY INSPECTORATE
TO MOVE THREE FLOORS UP * * * * * *
THE KOWLOON-9 DIVISIONAL OFFICE OF LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S FACTORY INSPECTORATE WILL MOVE FROM THE SECOND FLOOR TO THE FIFTH FLOOR OF SHAM SHU I PO POST OFFICE BUILDING AT UN CHAU STREET TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE NEW OFFICE’S TELEPHONES ARE 3-787033 FOR DIVISIONAL FACTORY INSPECTOR, 3-861191 FOR FACTORY INSPECTORS AND ASSISTANT FACTORY INSPECTORS AND 3-787970 FOR THE GENERAL OFFICE.
THE K0WL00N-10 AND KOWLOON-11 DIVISIONAL OFFICES REMAIN ON THE SECOND FLOOR OF THE SHAM SHU I PO POST OFFICE BUILDING.
- 0 - -
WATER CUT IN SHA TIN *****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF AREAS IN SHA TIN WILL BE SUSPENDED FOR 11 HOURS FROM 8 PM ON THURSDAY (MARCH 6) TO 7 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY FOR WATER MAIN WORKS.
THE AREAS TO BE AFFECTED ARE FO TAN, HO TUNG LAU, LOK LO HA, SHA TIN RACE COURSE, THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG AND THE SHA TIN SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS.
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
MAJOR KCR ELECTRIFICATION CONTRACT AWARDED ................. 1
GARRISON TALKS ............................................. 2
FIRST CHEUNG CHAU SITE FOR SALE SINCE 1973.................. 2
NUMBER OF NEW PRIVATE CARS REGISTERED LAST MCNTH - A RECORD ..................................................... 5
MORE MEDICAL FACILITIES IN NT'S WESTERN REGION ............. 5
MINI EXHIBITION OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT ............. 4
THREE PRE-WAR BUILDINGS DECURED DANGEROUS .................. 4
NEW RULE IN SECOND MATE EXAMINATION
5
TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 1980
1
MAJOR KCR ELECTRIFICATION CONTRACT AWARDED ft ft * ft ft ft
THE MODERNISATION AND ELECTRIFICATION SCHEME FOR THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY TOOK ANOTHER STEP FORWARD TODAY (TUESDAY) WITH THE SIGNING OF A CONTRACT FOR THE SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF AN OVERHEAD LINE TO PROVIDE POWER TO FUTURE ELECTRIC TRAINS.
THE $44.8 MILLION CONTRACT WAS FORMALLY SIGNED BY MR WONG MANG-KI, PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT CIVIL ENGINEER OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, AND REPRESENTATIVES OF BALFOUR BEATTY POWER CONSTRUCTION LIMITED OF BRITAIN.
SPEAKING AFTER THE CEREMONY, MR WONG SAID THE CONTRACT FORMED PART OF THE KCR MODERNISATION AND ELECTRIFICATION SCHEME WHICH WAS ESTIMATED TO COST SOME $2 000 MILLION.
ABOUT $550 MILLION HAS BEEN SET ASIDE FOR THE SCHEME IN THE COMING FINANCIAL YEAR.
MEANWHILE, THE NEW TRAINS WHICH HAVE BEEN ORDERED ARE NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION AND THE FIRST UNITS WILL BE DELIVERED BY THE END OF THIS YEAR.
REFERRING TO THE CONTRACT SIGNED TODAY, MR WONG SAID, +WORK WILL START SHORTLY AND WILL BE COMPLETED BY NOVEMBER 1982.
♦THE CONTRACT WILL INCLUDE THE SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF ALL SUPPORTING COLUMNS AND NECESSARY EQUIPMENT TO SUSPEND THE POWER LINE AT A HEIGHT OF OVER FIVE METRES ABOVE THE TRACK.
♦THE LINE WILL BE INSTALLED IN A SIMILAR MANNER TO THAT BEING USED FOR THE MTR ON THE OVERHEAD SECTION IN KWUN TONG.
♦THE SUSPENDED WIRE WILL PROVIDE HIGH VOLTAGE POWER, AT 25 KV AC, FOR THE ELECTRIC TRACTION TO THE FASTER AND MORE QUIET TRAINS OF THE FUTURE.♦
FOR THE SAFETY OF THE PUBLIC, MR WONG SAID, THE WHOLE LENGTH OF THE RAILWAY, ABOUT 33 KILOMETRES, WILL BE SECURELY FENCED. THIS TOGETHER WITH FOOTBRIDGES AND SUBWAYS FOR PEDESTRIANS WILL BE PROVIDED UNDER SEPARATE CONTRACTS.
TO CATER FOR THE INCREASE IN QUANTITY AND COMPLEXITY OF ROLLING STOCK, HE ADDED, A NEW SERVICING DEPOT WOULD BE BUILT SHORTLY AT HO TUNG LAU, SHA TIN.
UPON COMPLETION, THE DEPOT WILL PROVIDE FACILITIES FOR MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING OF THE NEW ELECTRIC ROLLING STOCK.
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/2.....
TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 1980
2
GARRISON TALKS ft ft ft ft
A HONG KONG GOVERNMENT TEAM WILL LEAVE FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM LATER THIS MONTH WHERE THEY WILL HAVE DISCUSSIONS WITH THE MINISTRY CF DEFENCE ON THE SIZE OF THE GARRISON AND RELATED MATTERS.
THE TEAM WILL INCLUDE THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY AND THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY.
-----o------
FIRST CHEUNG CHAU SITE FOR SALE SINCE 1973 ft ft ft ft ft ft
THE FIRST SITE FOR SALE ON CHEUNG CHAU SINCE 1973 IS TO BE AUCTIONED IN THE CITY HALL THEATRE AT 11 AM ON MARCH 11.
THE SITE, AT FA PENG, IS FOR LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT.
IT MEASURES ABOUT 3 160 SQUARE METRES IN AREA.
SITUATED AT THE SOUTHERN END OF THE ISLAND, THE SITE COMMANDS CLEAR VIEWS OVER THE SOUTH CHINA SEA.
DEVELOPMENT WILL BE RESTRICTED TO TWO STOREYS ONLY AND THE PLOT RATIO WILL BE LIMITED TO 0.6.
A BUILDING COVENANT OF $2 MILLION IS TO BE FULFILLED BY THE END OF MARCH, 1983.
THE LAST SALE OF A RESIDENTIAL LOT ON CHEUNG CHAU TOOK PLACE IN NOVEMBER, 1973. IT MEASURED 650 SQUARE METRES AND WAS ALSO FOR TWO-STOREY HOUSING DEVELOPMENT.
ALSO TO BE AUCTIONED ON MARCH 11 ARE A SITE FOR HOMES AT CHEUNG SHA ON LANTAU ISLAND, AND FOUR SITES AT SAI KUNG FOR INDUSTRIAL, RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PURPOSES.
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/3
TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 1980
3
NUMBER OF NEW PRIVATE CARS REGISTERED LAST MONTH - A RECORD *****
A TOTAL OF 6 154 NEW PRIVATE CARS WERE REGISTERED WITH THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT IN FEBRUARY 1980 - THE HIGHEST FOR ANY SINGLE MONTH.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) THE FIGURE WAS NEARLY THREE TIMES MORE THAN THE 2 289 NEW CAR REGISTRATIONS RECORDED IN THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR.
HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE TOTAL NUMBER OF REGISTERED PRIVATE CARS HAD INCREASED FROM 114 161 IN FEBRUARY 1977 TO 171 367 IN FEBRUARY 1980, A GROWTH OF MORE THAN 50 PER CENT OVER THREE YEARS. IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS ALONE, THE INCREASE WAS ABOUT 17.5 PER CENT.
THE SPOKESMAN SAIDi +THERE HAS BEEN A GROWTH IN THE NUMBER OF ALL CLASSES OF VEHICLES WITH PRIVATE CARS LEADING THE OTHERS.*
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MORE MEDICAL FACILITIES IN NT’S WESTERN REGION *****
MORE HOSPITALS AND CLINICS ARE TO BE BUILT IN THE WESTERN REGION OF THE NEW TERRITORIES DURING THE DECADE AS PART OF THE MEDICAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME TO COPE WITH THE EXPECTED INCREASE IN POPULATION.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, DR K L THONG THIS (TUESDAY) AFTERNOON AT THE FOUNDATION STONE LAYING CEREMONY OF THE NEW STAFF QUARTERS OF POK 01 HOSPITAL.
IN KEEPING WITH THE RAPID DEVELOPMENT OF THE NEW TOWNS PARTICULARLY IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, HE SAID, PROJECTS PLANNED WOULD INCLUDE A 1 364-BED HOSPITAL AND A POLYCLINIC AT TUEN MUN.
ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE FOUR-STOREY STAFF QUARTERS OF POK 01 HOSPITAL, HE SAID THAT IT WAS ONLY THE FIRST PHASE OF THE HOSPITAL’S PROPOSED LONG-TERM EXPANSION PLAN BEING EXAMINED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
♦SUBJECT TO THE ADVICE OF THE MEDICAL DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE, IT IS ENVISAGED THAT THERE WILL BE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT IN THE HOSPITAL TO UP-GRADE ITS FACILITIES TO A FULL DISTRICT HOSPITAL CAPACITY,+ HE ADDED.
HE POINTED OUT THAT WHEN THE HOSPITAL’S DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME WAS COMPLETED, THE GROWING POPULATION IN YUEN LONG WOULD BE SERVED WITH CONSIDERABLY EXPANDED MEDICAL FACILITIES.
DR THONG ALSO PAID TRIBUTE TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE HOSPITAL AND SAIDi ♦THIS EXPANSION PROJECT IS YET ANOTHER EXCELLENT EXAMPLE OF CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE COMMUNITY TO PROVIDE MEDICAL SERVICE FOR THE PUBLIC,* HE SAID.
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TUESDAY, MARCH 4, I960
4
MINI EXHIBITION OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT ******
A MINI EXHIBITION OF SAFETY APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT FOR INDUSTRY WILL BE STAGED IN THE NEW WORLD HOTEL ON MARCH 25 AS A MAJOR FEATURE OF THE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY CONFERENCE FOR SENIOR MANAGEMENT TO BE HELD IN THE SAME VENUE ON THAT DAY.
DISCLOSING THIS TODAY (TUESDAY), A SPOKESMAN FOR THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD’S COMMITTEE ON INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND ACCIDENTS PREVENTION SAID THE ONE-DAY EXHIBITION WOULD BE PARTICIPATED BY 18 COMPANIES WHICH ARE AGENTS OF SAFETY APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURED EITHER LOCALLY OR OVERSEAS.
PRODUCTS ON DISPLAY WILL INCLUDE SIMPLE PROTECTIVE GEARS SUCH AS SAFETY HELMETS, SAFETY SHOES, GOGGLES AND EAR-MUFFS FOR INDUSTRIAL USE, STRETCHERS, SAFETY HARNESSES AND BELTS AS WELL AS MORE SOPHISTICATED EQUIPMENT INCLUDING SAFETY BREATHING APPARATUS, SOLDER-FUME ABSORBER AND TOXIC GAS DETECTOR.
A FULL RANGE OF FIRE-PREVENTION AND FIRE-FIGHTING EQUIPMENT SUCH AS SPRINKLER SYSTEMS, SMOKE DETECTORS, EXTINGUISHERS AND FLAME RESISTANT CLOTHING WILL ALSO BE SHOWN.
DELEGATES TO THE CONFERENCE AND THEIR INVITED GUESTS AS WELL AS THE MANAGEMENT OF LARGE FACTORIES IN HONG KONG ARE EXPECTED TO VISIT THE EXHIBITION.
♦NO LESS THAN 800 PEOPLE ARE EXPECTED TO SEE THE MINI EXHIBITION. IT IS HOPED THAT SENIOR MANAGEMENT IN INDUSTRIES WILL HAVE A GOOD IDEA OF THE SAFETY APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE LOCALLY,♦ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
- 0 - -
THREE PRE-WAR BUILDINGS DECLARED DANGEROUS *****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY TODAY (TUESDAY) DECLARED THREE PRE-WAR BUILDINGS AT 269, 271 AND 273 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, TO BE IN A DANGEROUS CONDITION.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE SAID THESE THREE-STOREY BUILDINGS HAD BEEN UNDER OBSERVATION SINCE 1967.
HE SA ID I +RECENTLY LONG-STANDING FRACTURES IN THE LOAD-BEARING BRICK WALLS HAVE OPENED UP FURTHER AND CLEAR SIGNS OF CONTINUING MOVEMENT ARE INDICATED.
♦IN THESE CIRCUMSTANCES IT IS CONSIDERED NECESSARY TO CLOSE AND DEMOLISH THESE BUILDINGS TO OBVIATE THE RISK OF A COLLAPSE,* THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
NOTICES OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR CLOSURE ORDERS IN VICTORIA DISTRCIT COURT AT 9.30 AM ON APRIL 2 WERE POSTED TODAY.
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/5
TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 1980
- 5 -
NEW RULE IN SECOND MATE EXAMINATION
******
THE MARINE DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT FROM JUNE 1, CANDIDATES FOR THE SECOND MATE (CLASS 3) CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY EXAMINATION MUST BE THE HOLDER OF THE FOLLOWING CERTIFICATES!
* SIGHT TEST CERTIFICATE,
* EFFICIENT DECK HAND CERTIFICATE, AND
* EFFICIENT LIFEBOATMAN CERTIFICATE.
THE FOLLOWING CERTIFICATES MUST ALSO BE OBTAINED BEFORE A CANDIDATE QUALIFIES FOR THE ISSUE OF A SECOND MATE (CLASS 3) CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY!
* RADAR OBSERVER CERTIFICATE,
* FIRST AID AT SEA CERTIFICATE,
* FIRE FIGHTING COURSE CERTIFICATE,
* RESTRICTED CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY IN RADIO-TELEPHONY, AND
* ELECTRONIC NAVIGATIONAL AIDS (OPERATION) CERTIFICATE.
AT PRESENT, CANDIDATES FOR THIS EXAMINATION ARE NOT REQUIRED TO PRODUCE THESE CERTIFICATES, BUT A SECOND MATE (CLASS 3) CERTIFICATE WOULD ONLY BE ISSUED TO A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WHO POSSESSES ALL THESE CERTIFICATES.
THESE NEW REQUIREMENTS ALSO APPLY TO CANDIDATES FOR THE SECOND MATE (CLASS 4) EXAMINATION.
- - o - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES
BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GREEN LIGHT GIVEN FOR A GOLD FUTUR.ES i.ARKET ........... 1
MORE RESIDENTIAL SITES FOR SALE.......................... 2
PREVOCATIONAL EDUCATION A SUCCESS ....................... 3
VALUATION LISTS F( R NS7 RATING AREaS IN NT ............. 4
OVERTHELiilNG RESPONSE TO CHILDREN SAFETY POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION ..................................... 4
’.7IFE OF DHA TO VISIT NURSERY .......................... 5
SEMINAR ON MANAGEMENT LN EDUCATION ......................6
CONSTRUCTION SAFETY COURSE............................... £
FUN FOR CHILDREN OF GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT’S STAFF........................................ 7
UR3AN CLEARWAY AT HaRBOUR VL:7. STREET .................. 7
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 1980
1
GREEN LIGHT GIVEN FOR A GOLD FUTURES MARKET * * * *
ON THE ADVICE OF THE COMMODITIES TRADING COMMISSION, THE GOVERNMENT HAS APPROVED AN APPLICATION FROM THE HONG KONG COMMODITY EXCHANGE LIMITED TO ESTABLISH A GOLD FUTURES MARKET.
ANNOUNCING THE DECISION TODAY (WEDNESDAY) A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT THE FUTURES MARKET WOULD NOT COMPETE WITH THE HONG KONG CHINESE GOLD AND SILVER EXCHANGE SOCIETY.
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLA I NED I +THE SOCIETY DOES NOT CARRY ON TRADING IN FUTURES CONTRACTS AS COMMONLY UNDERSTOOD INTERNATIONALLY. A FUTURES MARKET IN HONG KONG SHOULD COMPLEMENT, RATHER THAN VIE WITH, THE SOCIETY.*
EXPLAINING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SOCIETY’S OPERATIONS AND THOSE OF A FUTURES MARKET, THE GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE SOCIETY PROVIDED A MARKET IN SPOT GOLD, WITH THE FACILITY TO DELAY A DELIVERY AT A COST WHICH VARIES FROM TIME TO TIME.
ON THE OTHER HAND A GOLD FUTURES CONTRACT SETS FIXED PRICES ON DEFINITE FUTURE DATES WHICH CAN EXTEND FROM BETWEEN ONE MONTH TO 20 MONTHS FORWARD, OR LONGER.
HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PROPERLY REGULATED GOLD FUTURES MARKET HERE WOULD FURTHER ENHANCE HONG KONG’S POSITION AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE.
THE SPOKESMAN EMPHASISED THAT THE DECISION TO ALLOW THE EXCHANGE TO ESTABLISH THE FUTURES MARKET WAS NOT ENCOURAGING SPECULATION.
HE SAIDt +FUTURES TRADING IN GOLD ON THE EXCHANGE WOULD MEAN THAT THE REGULATIONS AGAINST SYNDICATED TRADING WOULD CONTINUE TO APPLY, AND LOTS WOULD HAVE TO BE OF SPECIFIED MINIMUM VALUE.*
THIS WOULD MEAN THAT THERE WOULD BE NO SCOPE FOR SMALL INVESTORS. AND THAT LARGE INVESTORS WOULD BE ENCOURAGED TO DEAL ♦ON A PROPERLY REGULATED MARKET, RATHER THAN WITH ’FRINGE’ OPERATORS.*
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE FUTURES MARKET WOULD FACILITATE THE RETENTION IN HONG KONG OF A PORTION OF THE +VERY SUBSTANTIAL* BUSINESS NOW PLACED OVERSEAS.
IT WOULD ALSO ATTRACT SOME OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS FROM OVERSEAS FUTURES MARKETS.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 1980
*• 2 ~
MORE RESIDENTIAL SITES FOR SALE *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS TO OFFER SIX RESIDENTIAL SITES IN THE URBAN AREA HAVING A TOTAL AREA OF 157 770 SQUARE METRES FOR SALE IN THE l£XT SIX MONTHS IN AN EFFORT TO MAKE MORE LAND AVAILABLE TO MEET THE DEMAND FOR HIGH-CLASS RESIDENTIAL FLATS.
ANNOUNCING THIS TODAY, THE GOVERNMENT LAND AGENT, WDM SCOTT-WILL OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT SAID THAT ONE OF THESE SITES. LOCATED AT RED HILL OFF TAI TAM ROAD, MEASURED ABOUT 133 000 SQUARE METRES.
♦IT WILL BE THE LARGEST SINGLE HIGH-CLASS PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL SITES TO BE OFFERED FOR SALE IN THE URBAN AREA IN RECENT YEARS,♦ HE SAID.
♦WHEN FULLY DEVELOPED, IT WILL PROVIDE SOME 500 HIGH CLASS UNITS OF ACCOMMODATION EACH WITH A FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 240 SQUARE METRES.+
THE OTHER FIVE LOTS, ALSO ON HONG KONG ISLAND, ARE LOCATED AT POLLOCKS PATH (4 800 $Q METRES), BLUE POOL ROAD (2 100 SQ METRES), KENNEDY ROAD - VICTORIA BARRACKS (4 780 SQ METRES), SOUTH BAY CLOSE (5 190 SQ METRES), AND SOUTH BAY ROAD (7 900 SQ METRES).
MR SCOTT-WILL SAID THAT THE PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL SITES WERE AMONG 28 LOTS OF CROWN LAND TO BE PUT UP FOR AUCTION OR TENDER IN THE SIX-MONTH PERIOD FROM APRIL 1, 1980 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 1980.
OF PARTICULAR INTEREST WILL BE TWO PROMINENT AND VALUABLE SITES IN HARCOURT ROAD (3 300 SQ METRES) AND CANTON ROAD/HAIPHONG ROAD (6 600 SQ METRES).
THE OTHER LOTS INCLUDE SEVEN NON-INDUSTRIAL SITES, SEVEN INDUSTRIAL/GODOWN SITES, THREE GODOWN SITES AND THREE PETROL FILLING STATION SITES.
THE SIX INDUSTRIAL/GODOWN SITES AT KOWLOON BAY ARE THE FIRST TO BE SOLD IN THIS AREA FOR SOME TIME AND ARE A PART OF A CONTINUING PROGRAMME OF SALES IN THIS LOCATION.
IN ADDITION, THERE WILL BE ONE SITE FOR INDUSTRIAL/MOTOR VEHICLE REPAIR WORKSHOP AND ONE FOR PRIVATE HOSPITAL USE.
THE AREA OF THE 28 LOTS TOTALS 245 155 SQUARE METRES.
MR SCOTT-WILL SAID THAT THE SALES PROGRAMME WAS ONLY A PROVISIONAL ONE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
SALES DATES FOR EACH LOT WOULD BE ANNOUNCED IN DUE COURSE IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE AND ADVERTISED IN NEWSPAPERS, HE ADDED.
DETAILS OF THE LAND SALES FORECAST TOGETHER WITH PLANS SHOWING THE LOCATION OF THE LOTS TO BE OFFERED FOR SALE MAY BE SEEN CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY OFFICE, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN
AND AT THE K0wl°0N BRANCH OFFICE, 10TH FLOOR, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 405 NATHAN ROAD.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 1980
5
THEY MAY BE INSPECTED ALSO AT ALL CITY DISTRICT OFFICES, THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION OFFICES AND AT THE TRADE, INDUSTRY AND CUSTOMS DEPARTMENT.
COPIES OF THE SIX-MONTH FORECAST MAY BE OBTAINED FREE OF CHARGE FROM ANY OF THESE OFFICES OR BY WRITTEN REQUEST TO THE CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY OFFICE OF PWD.
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PREVOCATIONAL EDUCATION A SUCCESS ft ft * ft ft
GRADUATES OF PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS HAVE BEEN WELL RECEIVED BY LOCAL EMPLOYERS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR J N IENDERSON, DURING HIS VISIT TO CARITAS ST FRANCIS PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE SAID THE POPULARITY OF GRADUATES WAS DUE MAINLY TO THE FACT THAT THE EDUCATION THEY RECEIVED WAS PARTICULARLY RELEVANT TO A MODERN INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL SOCIETY AND PREPARED THEM FOR THE WORLD OF WORK. A LARGE PROPORTION TOOK UP APPRENTICE TRAINING IN APPROVED TRAINING SCHEMES.
MR HENDERSON ADDED THAT MANY GRADUATES WERE NOW OCCUPYING IMPORTANT POSTS IN CRAFT TRADES AFTER COMPLETING THEIR APPRENTICE TRAINING. OTHERS HAD ADVANCED TO BECOME TECHNICIANS AFTER OBTAINING FURTHER TECHNICAL EDUCATION.
EACH YEAR. HE SAID, MORE AND MORE YOUNG PEOPLE WERE COMPETING FOR ENTRY TO PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS. IT WAS FOR THIS REASON THAT THIS STREAM OF EDUCATION WOULD UNDERGO EXPANSION IN THE COMING YEARS.
♦IT IS GRATIFYING TO SEE THAT PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOL GRADUATES HAVE NO DIFFICULTIES IN OBTAINING EMPLOYMENT,+ HE NOTED.
THE COMMISSIONER SAID THAT CARITAS WAS ONE OF THE PIONEERS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PREVOCATIONAL EDUCATION IN HONG KONG. PRESENTLY UNDER ITS AEGIS THERE WERE SEVEN PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS WITH A COMBINED ENROLMENT OF ABOUT 5 680 PUPILS.
HE POINTED OUT THAT CARITAS ST FRANCIS PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOL WORKED CLOSELY WITH HIS DEPARTMENT AND THAT ABOUT 60 PER CENT OF ITS GRADUATES LAST YEAR JOINED APPRENTICESHIP SCHEMES THROUGH THE APPRENTICE PLACEMENT SERVICE OPERATED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S TRAINING COUNCIL DIVISION.
ACCOMPANIED BY THE PRESIDENT OF CARITAS HONG KONG, THE REV F LERDA, THE SCHOOL’S PRINCIPAL, MR PETER LEE, AND MR HORACE KNIGHT, ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR (INDUSTRIAL TRAINING), NR HENDERSON ALSO TOURED THE PRINTING, CARPENTRY AND HOUSE MAINTENANCE WORKSHOPS OPERATED BY CARITAS FOR ITS APPRENTICE TRAINING SCHEMES.
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A.....
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 1980
- 4 -
VALUATION LISTS FOR NEW RATING AREAS IN NT *****
THE COMMISSIONER OF RATING AND VALUATION, MR R A FRY TOMORROW (THURSDAY) WILL DECLARE THE VALUATION LISTS FOR EIGHT AREAS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES WHICH WERE SPECIFIED FOR RATING ON JUNE 5 LAST YEAR.
AFTER DECLARING THE VALUATION LISTS MR FRY WILL HAND OVER THE LISTS TO MR G D EDEN, THE DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING SERVICES, IN HIS CAPACITY AS THE COLLECTOR OF RATES.
NOTE TO EDITORSi
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHER TO COVER THE CEREMONY TO DECLARE THE VALUATION LISTS FOR NEW RATING AREAS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT TOMORROW (THURSDAY). MR B J C WOODROFFE, ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER AND MR KENNETH PANG TSAN-WING, PRINCIPAL VALUER OF THE DEPARTMENT WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PRESS INTERVIEWS IN ENGLISH AND CHINESE RESPECTIVELY BEFORE THE CEREMONY STARTS AT 12 NOON. PRESS REPRESENTATIVES ARE ADVISED TO ARRIVE AT THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT, 1 GARDEN ROAD AT 11.15 AM.
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OVERWHELMING RESPONSE TO CHILDREN SAFETY POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION *****
THE MEDICAL FROM STUDENTS TO
AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT HAS RECEIVED NUMEROUS ENTRIES THE +CHILDREN SAFETY POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION*.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT TODAY (WEDNESDAY) REMINDED SCHOOLS THAT THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING ENTRIES WILL BE MONDAY, MARCH 10.
THE COMPETITION IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL HEALTH EDUCATION UNIT OF THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT AND THE COMMUNIT YOUTH CLUBS SECRETARIAT OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
ITS MAIN OBJECTIVE IS TO MAKE THE PUBLIC MORE AWARE OF THE IMPORTANCE IN TAKING NECESSARY MEASURES TO SAFEGUARD CHILDREN FROM ACCIDENTS AT HOME OR AT PLAY.
♦AS THE THEME OF THE COMPETITION CONCERNS CHILDREN, THEY SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE CONTEST,+ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE CONTEST COMPRISES THREE DIVISIONS, AN OPEN DIVISION AND TWO OTHER DIVISIONS FOR PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS.
PRIZES RANGING FROM $700 TO $100 EACH FOR THE BEST SIX ENTRIES IN EACH DIVISION WILL BE AWARDED.
/ENTRIES MUST .....
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 1980
5
ENTRIES MUST BE OF 42 CM BY 59 CM, COMPLETED WITH THE CONTESTANT’S NAME, ADDRESS, TELEPHONE NUMBER, OCCUPATION, SCHOOL AND CLASS (IN CASE OF STUDENT), AND SENT TO THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS ON FOURTH FLOOR, LEE GARDENS, HYSAN AVENUE, CAUSEWAY BAY ON OR BEFORE MARCH 10.
THE WINNING ENTRIES WILL BE DISPLAYED AT A FAMILY HEALTH EXHIBITION ORGANISED BY THE DEPARTMENT IN THE CITY HALL FROM MARCH 27 TO 30.
0
WIFE OF DHA TO VISIT NURSERY
*****
THE WIFE OF THE DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS, MRS J C C WALDEN WILL VISIT THE TUNG WAH HONG KONG DAY NURSERY TOMORROW (THURSDAY) TO SEE THE CHILD CARE SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS.
MRS WALDEN WILL BE ACCOMPANIED ON THE VISIT BY MR STEPHEN YOW MOK-SHING, CHAIRMAN OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS, AND MR PAUL LEUNG, CITY DISTRICT COMMISSIONER (HONG KONG). SHE WILL TOUR THE NURSERY AND SEE THE DAILY ACTIVITIES OF THE CHILDREN.
THE NURSERY IS EQUIPPED WITH UP-TO-DATE FACILITIES AND TEACHING MATERIALS GEARED TO A CHILD’S PHYSICAL AND INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT.
IT HAS AN INTAKE OF 100 CHILDREN AGED 2-5 AND IS STAFFED BY ONE SUPERVISOR, SEVEN CHILD CARE WORKERS AND 5 AMAHS.
NOT TO EDITORS*
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND A REPRESENTATIVE TO COVER THE VISIT BY MRS J C C WALDEN, WIFE OF DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS, TO TUNG WAH HONG KONG DAY NURSERY AT 12-22 QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, 1ST FLOOR, TUNG HEY MANSION AT 3 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
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/6......
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 1980
6
SEMINAR ON MANAGEMENT IN EDUCATION ******
MORE THAN 50 SENIOR STAFF OF TECHNICAL INSTITUTES AND COLLEGES OF EDUCATION THIS (WEDNESDAY) MORNING ATTENDED A SEMINAR ON +MANAGEMENT IN EDUCATION TODAY* AT THE LEE WAI LEE TECHNICAL INSTITUTE AT KOWLOON TONG.
TODAY’S MEETING WAS THE SECOND IN A SERIES OF FIVE WEDNESDAY MORNING SESSIONS ORGANISED FOR THE SAME GROUP BY THE HONG KONG TECHNICAL TEACHERS’ COLLEGE.
♦THE AIM OF THIS SEMINAR IS TO HELP PARTICIPANTS ACQUIRE NEW KNOWLEDGE IN THE MANAGEMENT FIELD AND TO PROVIDE THEM WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO EXCHANGE IDEAS RELATED TO ACTUAL CASES FROM EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS,* A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ORGANISERS SA ID.
AT EACH MEETING THERE WILL BE A DISCUSSION PAPER TO BE FOLLOWED BY A SYNDICATE EXERCISE ON STUDY.
OF A CIRCULATED A PREPARED CASE
THE CURRENT SEMINAR IS THE THIRD MODULE OF A FOUR-MODULE COURSE OFFERED TO SENIOR STAFF TO KEEP THEM ABREAST WITH THE LATEST MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES.
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CONSTRUCTION SAFETY COURSE * * * *
™ *2 APPRENTICES AND TRAINEES OF A MAJOR LOCAL
0N COMPANY TODAY (WEDNESDAY) ATTENDED A CONSTRUCTION SAFETY SfETY^TRA^n'iNG CENTRESED BY THE LAB0UR DEPARTMENT’S INDUSTRIAL
OTHER^SPECTS^OF^CONSTRUCTION^SAFETv'0^ LEGISLiTI0N
CONSTRUCT I A? PTY 1LL TAKE PART ,N DISCUSSIONS AND SEE FILMS ON
UONolKUCTION SAFtTY.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID HE WAS PLEASED TO SEE LOCAL COMPANIES SO DEEPLY INVOLVED IN THE PROMOTION OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY
HE ADDED THAT HE HOPED MORE LOCAL COMPANIES WOULD FOLLOW THE HSIN CHONG CONSTRUCTION COMPANY TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE REGULAR COURSES OFFERED BY THE DEPARTMENT. wan i Abt Of IHc
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 1980
7
FUN FOR CHILDREN OF GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT’S STAFF * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD A PARTY FOR MORE THAN 1 500 CHILDREN OF ITS STAFF ON SUNDAY (MARCH 9) AT THE COMPOUND OF THE DEPARTMENT’S HEADQUARTERS IN OIL STREET, NORTH POINT.
THE PARTY WILL FEATURE A WIDE RANGE OF GAMES INCLUDING A MERRY-GO-ROUND, CHILDREN’S TRAIN RIDE ARRANGED BY THE TAMAR BELLE, A PAINTING COMPETITION, AND AIR-RIFLE SHOOTING.
THERE WILL ALSO BE A VARIETY SHOW ORGANISED BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG. MUSIC FOR THE DAY WILL BE PROVIDED BY THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICE BAND AND THE PIPER BAND OF THE TAI TAM GAP CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION.
THE DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES, MR R KILVERT WILL PERFORM AN EYE-DOTTING CEREMONY OF A LION DANCE AND LATER CONDUCT A LUCKY DRAW.
NOTE TO EDITORSi
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE CHILDREN’S PARTY OF THE GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT WHICH WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAY (MARCH 9) FROM 1 PM TO 5 PM AT THE COMPOUND OF THE DEPARTMENT’S HEADQUARTERS IN OIL STREET, NORTH POINT.
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URBAN CLEARWAY AT HARBOUR VIEW STREET
* * * *
A SECTION OF HARBOUR VIEW STREET BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL AND THE ENTRANCE TO THE CENTRAL BUS TERMINUS WILL BE DESIGNATED A 24-HOUR URBAN CLEARWAY FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (MARCH 7).
THE NEW ARRANGEMENT IS TO ALLOW BUSES TO ENTER THE TERMINUS QUICKLY WITHOUT HINDRANCE.
WITHIN THE CLEARWAY, ALL VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM PICKING UP OR SETTING DOWN PASSENGERS AND LOADING OR UNLOADING OF GOODS.
THE CLEARWAY WILL BE INDICATED BY TRAFFIC SIGNS.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
THURSDAY, HARCH 6, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
MONEY SUPPLY AND FINANCIAL STATISTICS FOR JANUARY ............... 1
IMPROVED CASH BENEFITS FOR THE DISABLED FROM APRIL 1 ............ 4
VALUATION LISTS FOR EIGHT NT RATING AREAS DECLARED .............. 5
HONG KONG JOINS ','GRLD CONSERVATION STRATEGY ................... 6
PILOT' LAND CENSUS BEGINS TCliORROJ ............................. 8
GARD JiS OF GOVERN!!'MT HOUSE To BE OPE!1 TO PUBLIC ............. 8
HINTS ON FIR j PREVENTION ....................................... 9
REGIONAL MEETINGS FOR CAREERS TEACHERS ......................... 10
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF CANAL LAD FLYOVERS ........................ 10
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1980
1
MONEY SUPPLY AND FINANCIAL STATISTICS FOR JANUARY ******
THE MONEY SUPPLY AND FINANCIAL STATISTICS FOR JANUARY 1980 WERE PUBLISHED TODAY.
THEY SHOW SHARP RISES DURING THE MONTH IN THE MONEY SUPPLY AND IN TOTAL CREDIT TO THE ECONOMY- BUT THESE RISES PROBABLY REFLECT SPECIAL SEASONAL AND OTHER FACTORS MORE THAN ANY UNDERLYING EXPANSION.
FIRST, THERE IS ALWAYS A SUBSTANTIAL DEMAND FOR CREDIT IN THE WEEKS BEFORE LUNAR NEW YEAR, FOR SUCH ITEMS AS THE SETTLEMENT CF OUTSTANDING ACCOUNTS AND THE PAYMENT OF ANNUAL BONUSES.
A SECOND SEASONAL FACTOR IS THE INCIDENCE IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF PAYMENTS OF PROFITS TAX AND SALARIES TAXi THERE IS LIKELY TO HAVE BEEN SOME DEMAND FOR CREDIT IN JANUARY TO ENABLE TAXPAYERS TO MAKE THOSE PAYMENTS.
THERE WAS ALSO, IN JANUARY THIS YEAR, A SMALL AMOUNT OF BORROWING FROM BANKS AND DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES BY PURCHASERS OF THE FIRST FLATS TO BE OCCUPIED IN THE GOVERNMENT’S HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME.
ANOTHER VERY IMPORTANT FACTOR IN JANUARY WAS A SUBSTANTIAL VOLUME OF +ROUND-TRIPPING+, CAUSED BY THE VERY HIGH MONEY MARKET RATES IN THE PERIOD LEADING UP TO LUNAR NEW YEAR. ROUND-TRIPPING IS A FORM OF INTEREST RATE ARBITRAGE, WHICH INVOLVES A CUSTOMER DRAWING DOWN AN OVERDRAFT FACILITY OR A LINE OF CREDIT WITH A BANK OR DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANY, ON WHICH INTEREST IS CHARGED AT PRIME RATE, OR A RATE LINKED TO PRIME RATE- THE SUM BORROWED IS THEN DEPOSITED, NORMALLY WITH A DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANY, AT A HIGHER MARKET RATE OF INTEREST.
MONEY SUPPLY
THE MONEY SUPPLY ON THE NARROWEST DEFINITION (Mi) (NOTES AND COINS WITH THE PUBLIC, PLUS DEMAND DEPOSITS, OTHER THAN FROM BANKS AND DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES (DTCS), WITH LICENSED BANKS) ROSE BY 1.8 PER CENT IN JANUARY, WELL DOWN FROM THE DECEMBER INCREASE CF 4.1 PER CENT. THOUGH THE VOLUME OF NOTES IN ISSUE ROSE IN JANUARY, WITH THE LUNAR NEW YEAR NOT UNTIL MID-FEBRUARY MOST OF THOSE NOTES WERE STILL IN BANKS' TILLS AT THE END OF JANUARY.
M2, WHICH IS DEFINED AS Ml PLUS SAVINGS AND TIME DEPOSITS (OTHER THAN FROM BANKS AND DTCS) WITH LICENSED BANKS, ROSE IN JANUARY BY 2.9 PER CENT, SLIGHTLY DOWN FROM THE DECEMBER INCREASE OF 3.2 PER CENT. TOTAL DEPOSITS WITH BANKS ROSE BY 3.1 PER CENT IN THE MONTH.
M3, WHICH CONSISTS OF M2 PLUS PUBLIC DEPOSITS WITH DEPOSITTAKING COMPANIES, ROSE IN JANUARY BY 5.3 PER CENT, COMPARED WITH A 4.1 PER CENT INCREASE IN DECEMBER. THE JANUARY FIGURE REFLECTS A RISE OF 12.7 PER CENT IN DEPOSITS WITH DTCS, CAUSED TO A LARGE EXTENT BY THE ROUND-TRIPPING DURING THE MONTH.
CREDIT TO ...
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1980
2
CREDIT TO THE ECONOMY
BANK LOANS IN HONG KONG ROSE BY 6.4 PER CENT ($4 BILLIONS) IN JANUARY, AGAINST A 6.1 PER CENT INCREASE IN DECEMBER. THE JANUARY INCREASE INCLUDES A RISE OF $2.1 BILLIONS IN DRAWINGS ON OVERDRAFT FACILITIES- PART AT LEAST OF THESE DRAWINGS REFLECTS ROUND-TRIPPING IN THE MONTH.
LOANS IN HONG KONG BY DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES ROSE BY 7.3 PER CENT IN JANUARY, AS COMPARED WITH 3.7 PER CENT IN DECEMBER.
TOTAL LOANS IN HONG KONG ROSE IN JANUARY BY 6.6 PER CENT, A LITTLE UP ON THE DECEMBER RISE OF 5.7 PER CENT.
LOANS ABROAD
THE TOTAL OF LOANS ABROAD FELL IN JANUARY, WITH BANK LOANS DOWN BY $73 MILLIONS TO $20 705 MILLIONS, AND LOANS BY DTCS DECLINING BY $1 588 MILLIONS TO $23 190 MILLIONS.
BALANCE SHEET RATIOS
THE AVERAGE LIQUIDITY RATIO FOR ALL BANKS WAS 53.6 PER CENT IN JANUARY, AGAINST 48.0 PER CENT IN DECEMBER. THIS INCREASE IS DISTORTED BY THE AMENDMENT, WITH EFFECT FROM JANUARY 1, 1980, OF THE LIST OF SPECIFIED LIQUID ASSETS FOR BANKS AND THE DEFINITION OF DEPOSIT LIABILITIES FOR BANKS 1 BOTH AMENDMENTS TAKE ACCOUNT OF THE CHANGING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BANKS AND DEPOSITTAKING COMPANIES. BANKS’ LOAN/DEPOSIT RATIOS ROSE TO 94.5 PER CENT IN JANUARY, REFLECTING THE DEMAND FOR BANK CREDIT IN THE MONTH.
THE AVERAGE LIQUIDITY RATIO FOR ALL DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES WAS 49.0 PER CENT IN JANUARY. THE STATUTORY REQUIREMENT FOR THESE COMPANIES TO OBSERVE A MINIMUM LIQUID ASSETS RATIO CAME INTO FORCE ON JANUARY 1, 1980, SO NO COMPARISONS WITH PREVIOUS MONTHS ARE AVAILABLE. THE LOAN/DEPOSIT RATIO FOR ALL DTCS FELL IN JANUARY TO 52.7 PER CENT, FROM 55.4 PER CENT, REFLECTING THE VERY SHARP RISE IN THEIR DEPOSITS.
NUMBER OF REPORTING INSTITUTIONS
THE NUMBER OF REPORTING BANKS ROSE FROM 105 TO 106 AT THE END OF JANUARY 1980. THREE MORE DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES BEGAN TO REPORT DURING THE MONTH, BRINGING THEIR TOTAL TO 272.
THE DETAILED FIGURES FOR JANUARY 1980, AND COMPARISONS WITH EARLIER MONTHS, ARE SET OUT IN THE FOLLOWING TABLE. THE COMPARISONS WITH JANUARY 1979 ARE DISTORTED BY THE EARLIER DATE OF THE LUNAR NEW YEAR IN THAT YEAR (28 - 31 JANUARY).
/FIGURES FOR .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1980
3 -
FIGURES FOR EARLIER MONTHS IN SMILLION (% CHANGE)
JANUARY 1980 DECEMBER 1979 OCTOBER 1979 JANUARY 1979
Ml 21 226 20 851 (♦1.8%)% 19 692 (+7.8%)% 20 816 (+2.0%)%
M2 77 436 75 270 (♦2.9%)% 70 844 (+9.3%)% 67 821 (+14.2%)%
M3 105 032 99 765 (♦5.3%) 93 596 (♦12.2%) 79 762 (+31.7%)
BANKS -
DEPOSITS 70 063 67 985 (♦3.1%)% 64 085 (♦9.3%)% 59 754 (+17.3%)%
LOANS AND ADVANCES IN HONG KONG 66 223 62 227 (♦6.4%)% 57 773 (♦14.6%)% 48 376 (+36.9%)%
LOAN/DEPOSIT RATIO 94.5% 91.5%% 90.2%% 81.0%%
AVERAGE LIQUIDITY RATIO 53.6% 48.0% 50.1% 45.4%
DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES •
DEPOSITS 27 596 24 495 (+12.7%) 22 752 (+21.3%) 11 941 (+131.1%)
LOANS AND ADVANCES IN HONG KONG 14 552 13 566 (+7.3%) 12 281 (+18.5%) 10 113 (+43.9%)
LOAN/DEPOSIT RATIO 52.7% 55.4% 54.0% 84.7%
AVERAGE LIQUIDITY RATIO « 49.0%
BANKS AND DEPOSITTAKING COMPANIES
TOTAL CREDIT TO THE ECONOMY 80 775 75 793 (+6.6%) 70 054 (+15.3%) 58 489 (+38.1%)
/ ' * ' DENOTES ....
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1980
4
’*’ DENOTES FIGURES ARE RECALCULATED TO EXCLUDE BANKS’ LIABILITIES TO, AND CLAIMS ON, DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES.
DENOTES THE STATUTORY REQUIREMENT FOR DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES TO OBSERVE A MINIMUM LIQUID ASSETS RATIO CAME INTO FORCE ON JANUARY 1, 1980.
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IMPROVED CASH BENEFITS FOR THE DISABLED FROM APRIL 1 * * * *
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT WILL IMPLEMENT FROM APRIL 1, THIS YEAR TWO FURTHER SOCIAL SECURITY IMPROVEMENTS WHICH WILL FINANCIALLY HELP THE PROFOUNDLY DEAF AND THE PARTIALLY DISABLED TO MEET THEIR SPECIAL NEEDS.
THE DISABILITY ALLOWANCE WILL BE EXTENDED TO COVER THE PROFOUNDLY DEAF, WHILST A DISABILITY SUPPLEMENT WILL BE INTRODUCED UNDER THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME FOR THE PARTIALLY DISABLED.
THESE IMPROVEMENTS WILL COST AN ESTIMATED TOTAL OF $8.9 MILLION IN 1980-81, BENEFITING AN ESTIMATED 3 800 PROFOUNDLY DEAF PEOPLE AND 1 000 PARTIALLY DISABLED PEOPLE.
ANNOUNCING THE DETAILS TODAY (THURSDAY), A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE INNOVATIONS ARISE FROM THE WHITE PAPER +SOCIAL WELFARE INTO THE 198O’S+ WHICH OUTLINES THE GOVERNMENT’S PLANS TO IMPROVE AND EXPAND SOCIAL SECURITY AND DIRECT WELFARE SERVICES.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID BOTH ARE INTENDED TO PROVIDE EXTRA SUPPORT, ON TOP OF ANY PUBLIC ASSISTANCE PAYMENTS SPECIFICALLY FOR BASIC LIVING, TO THE DISABLED AND THEIR FAMILIES TO MEET SPECIAL NEEDS ARISING OUT OF DISABILITY.
APPLICATIONS CAN NOW BE MADE AT THE DEPARTMENT’S SOCIAL SECURITY FIELD UNITS IN VARIOUS DISTRICTS, BUT IN ORDER TO FACILITATE PROCESSING, APPLICANTS ARE ADVISED TO APPLY IN WRITING, HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID AS THE PROFOUNDLY DEAF ARE CONSIDERED TO BE ANOTHER VULNERABLE GROUP IN NEED OF SPECIAL HELP, THEY WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE NON-MEANS TESTED DISABILITY ALLOWANCE WHICH IS NOW PAID TO 23 000 SEVERELY DISABLED PERSONS.
PROFOUND DEAFNESS, HE SAID, IS DEFINED AS A HEARING LOSS OF 85 DECIBELS OR MORE, OR OF 75 TO 85 DECIBELS WITH OTHER PHYSICAL HANDICAPS INCLUDING LACK OF SPEECH.
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE DISABILITY ALLOWANCE, NOW $230 A MONTH, IS ONE OF THE TWO TYPES OF ALLOWANCE UNDER THE SPECIAL NEEDS ALLOWANCES SCHEME - THE OTHER BEING THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE FOR PEOPLE AGED 70 AND OVER.
/AS TO .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1980
5
AS TO THE DISABILITY SUPPLEMENT, THE SPOKESMAN SAID IT FORMS PART OF THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME AND WILL BE PAID TO THE PARTIALLY DISABLED WHO ARE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE RECIPIENTS.
THOSE WHO ARE ALREADY RECEIVING AN OLD AGE SUPPLEMENT UNDER THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME OR A SPECIAL NEEDS ALLOWANCE WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE AS THESE PAYMENTS ARE INTENDED TO COVER SIMILAR NEEDS, HE SAID.
THE DISABILITY SUPPLEMENT, HE SAID, WILL BE $115 A MONTH AND WILL BE ADDED TO THE BASIC PUBLIC ASSISTANCE PAYMENT.
PARTIAL DISABILITY, HE ADDED. MEANS A 50 PER CENT OR MORE LOSS OF EARNING CAPACITY AS DEFINED IN THE WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION ORDINANCE, OR A MENTAL OR PHYSICAL CONDITION MEDICALLY CERTIFIED AS BEING BROADLY EQUIVALENT.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE DISABILITY SUPPLEMENT WILL BRING TO THREE THE TOTAL NUMBER OF SUPPLEMENTS UNDER THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME TO MEET SPECIAL NEEDS.
THE OTHER TWO, IMPLEMENTED IN 1978, ARE THE MONTHLY OLD AGE SUPPLEMENT FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE RECIPIENTS AGED 60 AND OVER, AND THE ANNUAL LONG-TERM SUPPLEMENT TO REPLACE ESSENTIAL HOUSEHOLD ITEMS FOR THOSE RECEIVING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE FOR 12 MONTHS OR MORE, HE SAID.
FOR ANYONE DISSATISFIED WITH OFFICIAL DECISIONS ON SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS, INCLUDING ELIGIBILITY AND PAYMENTS, AN INDEPENDENT APPEAL BOARD IS AVAILABLE TO PROVIDE A SPEEDY MEANS OF REDRESS, HE ADDED.
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VALUATION LISTS FOR
EIGHT NT RATING AREAS DECLARED ft * * * ft *
THE COMMISSIONER OF RATING AND VALUATION, MR R A FRY TODAY (THURSDAY) DECLARED THE VALUATION LISTS FOR EIGHT AREAS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WHICH WERE SPECIFIED FOR RATING LAST JUNE.
THE LISTS WERE THEN HANDED OVER TO THE DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING SERVICES, MR G D EDEN IN HIS CAPACITY AS COLLECTOR OF RATES.
RATES WILL BE CHARGED BY THE COLLECTOR BASED ON THESE VALUATION LISTS EFFECTIVE FROM APRIL 1, 1980.
THE LISTS DECLARED BY THE COMMISSIONER CONTAIN SOME 6 500 ASSESSMENTS WITH A TOTAL RATEABLE VALUE OF ABOUT $45 MILLION. THEY ARE IN RESPECT OF THE FOLLOWING AREAS 1
AREA P CHEUNG CHAU,
AREA Q PENG CHAU,
AREA R LANTAU AND MA WAN ISLANDS,
AREA S LAMMA ISLAND,
/AREA D2 .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1980
6
AREA D2
AREA J4
AREAS N4 AND N5
AN AREA NORTH OF TSUEN WAN AROUND CHUEN LUNG,
AN AREA ALONG SHA TAU KOK ROAD INCLUDING LOI TUNG, AND
HO CHUNG AND TAI MONG TSAI, BOTH IN SAI KUNG DISTRICT.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT SAID THE DECLARATION OF THESE LISTS MARKED THE COMPLETION OF THE CURRENT PROGRAMME OF EXTENDING RATING TO THE DEVELOPED AND DEVELOPING AREAS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES, A PROGRAMME WHICH WAS STARTED IN 1973.
HE POINTED OUT, HOWEVER, THAT FURTHER EXTENSIONS OF THE RATING AREAS ARE LIKELY AS DEVELOPMENT SPREADS TO PLACES OUTSIDE THE CURRENTLY SPECIFIED AREAS.
AFTER THEY ARE DECLARED, THE VALUATION LISTS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION BY THE PUBLIC AT THE TREASURY (ROOM 202, HANG CHONG BUILDING, 2ND FLOOR, 5 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, HONG KONG) FOR 21 DAYS FROM SATURDAY (MARCH 8). COPIES OF THE RELEVANT LISTS WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE AT THE APPROPRIATE DISTRICT OFFICES.
ANYONE AGGRIEVED ON ANY OF THE GROUNDS LAID DOWN IN THE RATING ORDINANCE MAY, DURING THIS 21-DAY PERIOD, SERVE A PROPOSAL IN THE SPECIFIED FORM ON THE COMMISSIONER OF RATING AND VALUATION FOR THE ALTERATION OF THE CONCERNED VALUATION LIST.
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HONG KONG JOINS WORLD CONSERVATION STRATEGY * * * *
HONG KONG HAS A SPECIFIC OBLIGATION TO DO ITS BEST TO PRESERVE ITS WILDLIFE WHETHER ANIMAL, VEGETABLE OR MARINE, THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
ANOTHER OBLIGATION, INTERNATIONALLY, HE SAID, WAS TO MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO THE WORLD CONSERVATION STRATEGY.
AS SIR MURRAY COMMENDED TO THE WHOLE COMMUNITY ITS SUPPORT TO THE STRATEGY, HRH PRINCE PHILIP IN LONDON AND LEADERS IN 35 COUNTRIES INCLUDING CHINA SIMULTANEOUSLY ENDORSED THE AIMS OF WILDLIFE CONSERVATION.
ltt(1 ™E W0RLDW,DE strategy WAS ORGANISED BY THE INTERNATIONAL UNION FOR THE CONSERVATION OF NATURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES (IUCN), UNDER THE JOINT SPONSORSHIP OF THE UNITED NATIONS ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMME (UNEP) AND THE WORLD WILDLIFE FUND (WWF). DURING THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY AT THE HILTON HOTEL, THE ORGANISING CHAIRMAN, SIR KENNETH FUNG PING-FAN, ANNOUNCED THE PROPOSED FORMATION LATER THIS YEAR OF A HONG KONG BRANCH OF THE WORLD WILDLIFE FUND.
/AT THE ...
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1980
7
AT THE GATHERING OF LOCAL BUSINESSMEN. CONSERVATIONISTS AND SCIENTISTS TODAY, SIR MURRAY SAID THAT MORE OR LESS EVERYONE FAVOURED THE CONSERVATION OF WORLD WILDLIFE, BUT ADDEDt +THE PROBLEM IS WHAT ANYONE IS PREPARED TO DO ABOUT IT.+
♦HUMAN COMMUNITIES ARE GRADUALLY AND SHAKILY ACCEPTING THE NECESSITY FOR MUTUAL CONCESSIONS TO AVOID THEIR OWN ANNIHILATION BY WAR, STARVATION AND DISEASE. BUT IN PRACTICE THEY ARE VERY FAR FROM ACCEPTING THAT CONCESSIONS TO LIVING WITH THE WORLD OF NATURE MUST BE MADE IF BEAUTY AND INTEREST ARE NOT TO BE LOST AND INDEED THE ECOLOGICAL BALANCE ON WHICH LIFE ON THIS PLANET DEPENDS.
♦IT IS TO STIR THE WORLD TO REALISATION OF THIS DANGER THAT THE WORLD CONSERVATION STRATEGY IS BEING LAUNCHED,♦ SAID SIR MURRAY.
IN RELATION TO HONG KONG’S OBLIGATIONS, HE SAID ATTEMPTS TO DO SO LOCALLY WOULD ENCOUNTER ♦EXCEPTIONAL CONTRARY PRESSURES.♦
THE DENSITY OF POPULATION AND ITS VERY RAPID INCREASE INEVITABLY COMPETE WITH ALL FORMS OF WILDLIFE FOR USE OF THE VERY LIMITED LAND AND WATER.
♦MOREOVER,♦ HE SAID, +THERE IS THE IMPERATIVE NEED FOR THIS RAPIDLY INCREASING POPULATION TO EARN ITS LIVING AND MAINTAIN ITSELF IN A TERRITORY TOTALLY DEVOID OF NATURAL RESOURCES OTHER THAN ITS PEOPLE AND ITS HARBOUR.♦
SIR MURRAY SAID IT WAS OUR DUTY TO RECONCILE THESE CONFLICTING OBLIGATIONS.
HONG KONG WAS ONLY A TINY ISLAND IN THE VAST LAND MASS OF EAST ASIA AND ITS WILDLIFE +ONLY A MICROSCOPIC PART.+
♦BUT,* SIR MURRAY SAID, +IT IS A PART WHICH IS FASCINATING, BEAUTIFUL AND ACCESSIBLE, AND IS TO BE TREASURED.+
ON CONSERVATION MATTERS, SIR MURRAY CITED THE COUNTRY PARKS DEVELOPMENT AND LEGISLATION INVOLVING THE TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES OF FLORA AND FAUNA.
♦IMPORTANT THOUGH OUR OWN CONTROL MEASURES ARE, THEY ARE BUT ONE TINY PART OF THE STRATEGY REQUIRED FOR GLOBAL CONSERVATION. THE UNDERLYING CONCEPTS OF THE STRATEGY ARE NOT NEW, BUT THEIR APPLICATION ON THIS SCALE IS, AND THEIR SUCCESS REQUIRES THE COMBINED CO-OPERATIVE EFFORTS OF GOVERNMENTS ALL OVER THE WORLD.
♦FOR INSTANCE, THE STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE WORLD CONSERVATION STRATEGY OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA, MAKES OUR EFFORTS IN HONG KONG MORE INFINITELY WORTHWHILE,+ SAID SIR MURRAY.
HE ADDED THAT EVERYWHERE LEGISLATION WAS ESSENTIAL, BUT MORE IMPORTANT WAS POLICING AND EDUCATION IN THE PRINCIPLES OF CONSERVATION.
A REPLY TO SIR MURRAY’S SUPPORT FOR THE GOALS WHICH THE STRATEGY SOUGHT TO ACHIEVE WAS MADE BY MARINE BIOLOGIST, DR SYLVIA EARLE, A TRUSTEE OF THE WORLD WILDLIFE FUND INTERNATIONAL.
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8
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1980
PILOT LAND CENSUS BEGINS TOMORROW *****
THE PILOT LAND POPULATION CENSUS WILL BE HELD BETWEEN TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AND MARCH 16 (SUNDAY) DURING WHICH ABOUT 20 000 HOUSEHOLDS IN VARIOUS TYPES OF LIVING QUARTERS IN 11 DISTRICTS WILL BE VISITED BY ENUMERATORS FROM THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THESE HOUSEHOLDS SHOULD HAVE ALREADY RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION LETTER FROM THE DEPARTMENT IF THEIR ADDRESS CAN BE REACHED BY POST.
ALL ENUMERATORS WILL BE CARRYING A RED SATCHEL AND WILL IDENTIFY THEMSELVES WITH A YELLOW CENSUS IDENTITY CARD BEARING THEIR NAME AND PHOTOGRAPH. ANY MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC WHO HAS DOUBTS ABOUT THE IDENTITY OF THE PERSON CALLING ON HIM FOR AN INTERVIEW FOR THE PILOT CENSUS CAN TELEPHONE THE DEPARTMENT AT 5-439189.
THE SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT CALLED ON THESE HOUSEHOLDS TO CO-OPERATE WITH THE ENUMERATORS BY PROVIDING THEM WITH FULL AND ACCURATE ANSWERS TO ALL CENSUS QUESTIONS.
HE REITERATED THAT ANY INFORMATION THEY SUPPLY WILL BE TREATED AS STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL. THE ENUMERATORS ARE UNDER OATH NOT TO DISCLOSE THE INFORMATION TO ANY PERSON OR ORGANISATION OUTSIDE THE DEPARTMENT, AND THE DATA WILL BE PROCESSED BY COMPUTER AND ANALYSED IN AGGREGATED FORM.
THE 20 000 HOUSEHOLDS ARE RANDOMLY SELECTED FOR THE PILOT CENSUS, AND THEY WILL BE ASKED TO GIVE A FEW BASIC DETAILS, SUCH AS AGE, SEX AND RELATIONSHIP TO HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD FOR EACH OF THEIR MEMBERS. ONE OUT OF FIVE OF THEM WILL BE ASKED TO GIVE FUTHER DETAILS, SUCH AS EDUCATION AND TRAINING, EMPLOYMENT, OCCUPATION AND EARNINGS, INTERNAL MOVEMENT, AND DISABLEMENT.
THE PILOT CENSUS AS WELL AS THE PILOT CENSUS FOR THE MARINE POPULATION HELD LAST MONTH ARE AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE PREPARATION FOR THE MAIN POPULATION CENSUS TO BE CONDUCTED IN MARCH NEXT YEAR.
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GARDENS OF GOVERNMENT HOUSE TO BE OPEN TO PUBLIC
******
THE GARDENS OF GOVERNMENT HOUSE WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ON MARCH 9 (SUNDAY) FROM 10 AM TO 5 PM TO ENABLE PEOPLE TO SEE THE AZALEAS IN BLOOM.
THE ANNUAL OPEN DAY HAS BEEN HELD SINCE 1968 EXCEPT LAST YEAR WHEN GOVERNMENT HOUSE WAS UNDER RENOVATION.
MORE THAN 100 000 PEOPLE VISITED THE GARDENS OF GOVERNMENT HOUSE IN 1978 AND LARGE CROWDS ARE EXPECTED THIS YEAR.
WHEN VISITING GOVERNMENT HOUSE, VISITORS ARE REQUESTED TO ENTER BY THE MAIN GATE AND LEAVE BY THE SIDE GATES SO THAT ALL CAN ENJOY THE FLOWERS WITHOUT CAUSING INCONVENIENCE TO OTHERS.
THEY ARE ALSO REMINDED THAT ONLY THE GARDENS WILL BE OPEN AND THEY SHOULD NOT ENTER THE HOUSE ITSELF.
SCOUTS AND POLICE OFFICERS WILL BE PRESENT AND VISITORS ARE ASKED TO CO-OPERATE WITH THEM TO AVOID OVERCROWDING.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1980
9
HINTS ON FIRE PREVENTION * * * * *
FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE PREVENTION ARE AFTER ALL ONLY BASIC COMMON SENSE AND ARE RELATIVELY EASY TO ADMINISTER, THE CHIEF FIRE OFFICER OF KOWLOON, MR FRED JACKSON, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING AT A ROTARY CLUB LUNCHEON MR JACKSON SAID: +THE CLOSING OF DOORS AND WINDOWS, REMOVAL OF ELECTRICAL PLUGS FROM SOCKETS, EXITS AND GANGWAYS CLEAR, SMOKE LOBBY DOORS CLOSED AND STAIRCASES CLEAR TO ROOF OR GROUND FLOOR ALL MAKE FOR A SAFER SOCIETY.*
HE CALLED ON THOSE PRESENT TO BE RESPONSIBLE PEOPLE AND DO THEIR SHARE TO HELP REDUCE THE DREADFUL TOLL OF LIVES AND PROPERTY CAUSED BY FIRES.
♦THERE WERE MORE THAN 13 000 FIRES IN HONG KONG LAST YEAR RESULTING IN SOME 45 DEATHS TO SAY NOTHING OF THE DREADFUL INJURIES SUFFERED BY MANY. A TOTAL OF 768 PERSONS WERE INJURED INCLUDING 86 MEMBERS OF THE SERVICE WHO PHYSICALLY RESCUED 874 PERSONS,* HE SAID.
*IN 1978,* HE CONTINUED, +ALMOST 11 000 FIRES CAUSED IN EXCESS OF $113 MILLION AND I SPEAK NOW OF DIRECT FIRE LOSS, NOT THE INDIRECT LOSS CAUSED BY LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF ORDERS, LOSS OF LIVELIHOOD.*
MR JACKSON ALSO ASKED THE AUDIENCE, ♦ I SEE THE PRICE OF A NEW ROLLS-ROYCE OR MERCEDES IS $300 000 WHILST POSSIBLY NOT EVERY ONE HERE HAS A CAR IN THAT BRACKET DO YOU HAVE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER IN YOUR CAR?*
♦I GUARANTEE THAT VERY FEW HAVE,* HE SAID.
+THE POINT I MAKE IS THAT PEOPLE PAY THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS FOR PRESTIGIOUS TRANSPORT AND FORGET TO, OR WILL NOT PAY $200 FOR A FIRE EXTINGUISHER.
+THERE WERE 691 VEHICLE FIRES IN HONG KONG LAST YEAR AND A GREAT DEAL OF THEM COULD HAVE BEEN PUT OUT IN THEIR INCIPIENT STAGES BY THE DRIVERS IF THEY HAD FIRE EXTINGUISHERS AND MORE IMPORTANT KNEW HOW TO OPERATE THEM,* HE SAID.
ALSO ADDRESSING THE AUDIENCE, MR JACKSON ASKEDt +THERE MUST BE QUITE A FEW OF YOU HERE TODAY WHO HAVE YOUR OWN COMPANIES- CAN I ASK YOU, DO YOU HAVE A STAFF EVACUATION DRILL, IF NOT, WHY NOT?
*IT MAY SAVE YOUR BUSINESS, YOUR LIVES, WHO KNOWS?* HE ADDED.
0 - -
/10
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1980
10
REGIONAL MEETINGS FOR CAREERS TEACHERS * * * *
AN OPPORTUNITY FOR CAREERS TEACHERS TO MEET AND EXCHANGE VIEWS WILL BE PROVIDED BY THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF CAREERS MASTERS LATER THIS MONTH.
*A SERIES OF SIX MEETINGS HAVE BEEN ORGANISED AT REGIONAL CENTRES ON HONG KONG ISLAND, IN KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES,* SAID MISS ROSE LAU, CAREERS OFFICER OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, WHO IS ALSO THE SECRETARY OF THE ASSOCIATION.
THESE REGIONAL MEETINGS WILL BE HELD AT CARMEL ENGLISH SCHOOL, HO MAN TIN, (MARCH 17, 3 PM)- KAU YAN COLLEGE, HONG KONG (MARCH 18, 3 PM)- DIOCESAN BOYS’ SCHOOL, MONG KOK, (MARCH 19, 3 PM)- BUDDHIST SIN TAK COLLEGE, KWAI CHUNG (MARCH 20, 3 PM)-CONCORDIA LUTHERAN SCHOOL, NORTH POINT (MARCH 21, 3 PM) AND LA SALLE COLLEGE, KOWLOON (MARCH 22, 10 AM).
MISS LAU EXPLAINED THAT THE MEETINGS HAVE BEEN ORGANISED TO ENABLE CAREERS TEACHERS TO GET ACQUAINTED AND EXCHANGE EXPERIENCES ON GUIDANCE AND OBTAIN INFORMATION ON LATEST DEVELOPMENTS OF THE ASSOCIATION.
OTHER TOPICS FOR DISCUSSIONS AT THESE MEETINGS WILL INCLUDE THE DUTY LIST OF CAREERS TEACHER AND THE ANNUAL CAREERS MASTERS’ SEMINAR ON MARCH 26 FOLLOWING THE SERIES OF REGIONAL MEETINGS.
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TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF CANAL ROAD FLYOVERS * * * * *
THE DOWN-RAMP of CANAL ROAD EAST FLYOVER AND THE UP-RAMP £™£cuL/2nD*ME*Jn,V0VER WILL BE CL0SED TO traffic again BETWEEN 1.30 AM AND 6 AM ON SATURDAY AND SUNDAY (MARCH 8 AND 9) TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CANAL ROAD FLYOVER.
DURING THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE, HONG KONG-BOUND BUSES ON CRO$S RARB0UR R0UTES 121 AND 122 WILL BE DIVERTED VIA VICTORIA PARK ROAD, GLOUCESTER ROAD, PERCIVAL STREET, LEIGHTON ROAD WONG NA CHUNG ROAD, MORRISON HILL ROAD AND THEN BACK TO THEIR ORIGINAL ROUTING.
KOWLOON-BOUND BUSES FROM MORRISON HILL ROAD ONWARDS WILL ^,.otV^RTED VIA DEIGHTON ROAD, PENNINGTON STREET, YEE WO STREET, on*nhT«Y R°AD, HING FAT STREET, VICTORIA PARK ROAD AND GLOUCESTER ROAD TO GO TO THE CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
- o -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN - SUPPLEMENT
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION .SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG TEL 5-233191
THURSDAY, I4ARCH 6, 19^0
GOVERNOR OFFICIAT 35 AT THE LAUNCHING OF. THS WORLD CONSERVATION STRATEGY
The following is the full text of speech by the Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose at the launching of the ;crld Conservation Strategy at the Hilton Hotel today (Thursday).
Today the Jorld Conservation Strategy is launched not only here in Hong Kong, but in 55 countries around the world. We are honoured that the World Wildlife Fund’s representative, Dr Sylvia Earle, should be in Hong Kong for this occasion.
Lore or less everyone favours the conservation of world WILDLIFE, but the problem is what anyone is prepared to do about it. Human communities are gradually and shakily accepting the necessity for mutual concessions to avoid their own annihilation by war, starvation or disease. But in practice they are very far from accepting that concessions to living with the world of nature must be made if beauty and interest are not to be lost and .indeed the ecological balance on which life on this planet depends. It is to stir the.world to realisation of this danger that the ;orld Conservation Strategy is being launched.
/Every community .....
2
Every community must consider what contribution it can make. In Hong Kong we have two specific obligations: locally to do our best to preserve Hong Kong’s own wildlife whether animal, vegetable or marine; and internationally to make our contribution to the 'I'/orld Conservation Strategy.
We have to face the fact that our attempts to do this in Hong Kong encounter exceptional contrary pressures. The density of population and its very rapid increase inevitably compete^ with all forms of wildlife for use of the very limited land and water. Moreover"^ here is the imperative need for this rapidly increasing population to earn its living and maintain itself in a territory totally devoid of natural resources other than its people and its harbour. It is our duty to reconcile these conflicting obligations within Hong Kong for the benefit of our people and because of our international obligations. Hong Kong is only a tiny island in the vast land mass of East Asia of which our wildlife is only a microscopic part. But it is a part which is fascinating, beautiful and accessible, and is to be treasured.
Domestically, in addition to increasing control of pollution the most significant act of preservation has been the establishment of country parks covering 4C$ of the territory, with a staff which will progressively be trained both to preserve wildlife and educate the public both to enjoy it and to co-operate in its preservation. There are also powers to designate for preservation areas of special scientific interest which lie outside the parks themselves. Development within this large area of nearly 200 square miles can only take place after special procedures which ensure that the requirements of preservation are given the weight they deserve.
Internationally we have enacted legislation to give effect to the 1973 Convention on International Trade on Endangered Species. This legislation has pressed hard on trade for souvenirs and luxury products inflated by demand from other countries and tourists. This demand is in excess of the safe yield from the basic natural resources and must be restrained or replaced by the use of other materials; and so far as Hong Kong is concerned increasingly effective action is being taken.
/Important.....
i
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Important though our own control measures are, they are but one tiny part of the strategy required for global conservation. The underlying concepts of the strategy are not new but their application on this scale is, and their success requires the combined co-operative efforts of governments all over the world. For instance the strong support for the florid Conservation Strategy of the People’s Republic of China, makes our efforts in Hong Kong infinitely more worthwhile. Everywhere legislation is essential, but more important is policing, and education in the principles of conservation.
We are only slowly learning how easily the delicate balance of nature can be disturbed and how quickly its precious beauty can be irreparably despoiled. I commend to the whole community this florid Conservation Strategy and confirm Hong Kong’s support for the goals it seeks to achieve.
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES
BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL 5-233191
FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 19&0
CONTENTS
APPOINTMENTS TO COMbilTTEE OF REVIEW ON RENT LEGISLATION... 1
NEW MEMBERS APPOINTED TO LEGCO ..................*........ 1
REHABILITATION ALLOWANCES PAID OUT TO FARMERS............. 2
DORWARD TO LEAVE FOR A TWO-'TEEK VISIT TO EUROPE.......... 2
VALUATION LISTS FOR 1980-81 AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION ............................................... 3
YOUNG INMATES OBTAIN GOOD RESULTS IN TELECOMMUNICATION EXAMINATION .............................................. 4
CAUSEWAY BAY OUTLINE ZONING PLAN REVISED................ 5
FOOTBRIDGE IN SHA TIN .................................... 6
OPENING OF TECHNICAL SCHOOL FOR GIRLS .................... 6
SWD TO HOLD FAMILY CARNIVAL............................... 7
YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA TO GIVE CONCERT .... ............*. 7
FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 1980
1
APPOINTMENTS TO COMMITTEE OF REVIEW ON RENT LEGISLATION
******
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) ANNOUNCED THE COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE OF REVIEW, LANDLORD AND TENANT (CONSOLIDATION) ORDINANCE.
UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS APPOINTED ARE I
MR R H LOBO, A MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL"
MR PETER C WONG, A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL-
MR WONG PO-YAN, A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL-
MISS SHEILA SERALE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE HOUSING SOCIETY-
PROFESSOR PETER WILLOUGHBY OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY- AND
MRS LEE LO YUK-SIM, A MEMBER OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE COMMITTEE WOULD BE CHAIRED BY THE SECRETARY FOR HOUSING, AND THAT OTHER OFFICIAL MEMBERS WERE THE COMMISSIONER FOR RATING AND VALUATION, SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, THE DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS AND A SENIOR MEMBER OF THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
THE COMMITTEE WILL REPORT TO THE GOVERNOR, HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED! +THE COMMITTEE’S REPORT WILL BE PUBLISHED FOR PUBLIC INFORMATION AND COMMENT AFTER IT HAS BEEN CONSIDERED BY THE GOVERNOR-IN-COUNCIL.+
SUBMISSIONS FROM THE PUBLIC, WHICH WERE INVITED ON FEBRUARY 13, 1980, SHOULD BE SENT TO THE SECRETARY OF THE COMMITTEE, HOUSING BRANCH, GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, PREFERABLY BY MARCH 20.
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APPOINTMENTS TO LEGCO * * * *
THE SECRETARY FOR INFORMATION, MR DAVID FORD, AND THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR JOHN RIDDELL-SWAN HAVE BEEN APPOINTED AS OFFICIAL MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
THEIR APPOINTMENTS. PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY), WERE EFFECTIVE FROM MARCH 1 THIS YEAR.
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2
FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 1980
REHABILITATION ALLOWANCES PAID OUT TO FARMERS ******
THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) PAID OUT $56 000 TO 200 FARMERS AS REHABILITATION ALLOWANCES FOR CROPS DAMAGED IN THE NEW TERRITORIES BY THE HAILSTORMS ON WEDNESDAY.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THAT SOME 1 500 FARMERS WERE AFFECTED BY THE STORM AND THE CROPS DAMAGED WERE ESTIMATED TO BE $500 000.
HE SAID FULL EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS TO THE FARMERS WOULD BE COMPLETED WITHIN THE NEXT FEW DAYS.
ASSESSMENT TO CROPS DAMAGED BY THE HEAVY RAIN STORM YESTERDAY ARE STILL BEING CARRIED OUT, BUT INITIAL REPORTS INDICATE THE LOSS BY FLOODING WILL BE SLIGHT.
MEANWHILE THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR JOHN RIDDELL-SWAN SAID THIS (FRIDAY) EVENING THAT OF THE ONE MILLION PICULS OF LOCALLY PRODUCED VEGETABLES SOLD THROUGH CHEUNG SHA WAN WHOLESALE VEGETABLE MARKET, ABOUT 80 PER CENT CAME FROM VEGETABLE MARKETING CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES.
AT THE INAUGURATION CEREMONY OF THE NEW COMMITTEE OF THE FEDERATION OF VEGETABLE MARKETING CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES HE SAID THE DEVELOPMENT GRANT FROM THE VEGETABLE MARKETING ORGANISATION TOTALLING $25 000 HAS BEEN GIVEN TO THE FARMERS TO ERECT PLASTIC NETHOUSES.
+ IN SOME CASES IT HAS BECOME APPARENT A SMALLER TYPE OF NETHOUSE THAN THAT PREVIOUSLY USED COULD BE MORE APPROPRIATE AND THIS YEAR IT IS INTENDED TO PROVIDE A FURTHER $25 000 TO ASSIST FARMERS TO ERECT NETHOUSES OF THE SMALLER TYPE,+ SAID MR RIDDELL-SWAN.
DURING WEDNESDAY’S HAILSTORM, CROP SEEDLINGS IN NETHOUSES IN SAP PAT HEUNG AND KAM TIN WERE NOT DAMAGED BUT ABOUT 85 PER CENT OF THE CROPS IN THE AREA WERE DESTROYED.
AT TONIGHT’S CEREMONY PAST CHAIRMAN OF THE FEDERATION, MR KO HOK AND LAST YEAR’S COMMITTEE WERE RE-INSTATED FOR ANOTHER TERM.
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DORWARD TO LEAVE FOR A TWO-WEEK VISIT TO EUROPE * * * *
THE DIRECTOR OF TRADE, INDUSTRY AND CUSTOMS, MR BILL DORWARD, WILL LEAVE TOMORROW (SATURDAY) FOR A TWO-WEEK VISIT TO GENEVA, BRUSSELS AND LONDON.
THE VISIT TO GENEVA WILL INCLUDE MEETINGS WITH MR OLIVIER LONG, THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE GATT- AMBASSADOR PAUL WURTH, CHAIRMAN OF THE TEXTILES SURVEILLANCE BODY- AND GENEVA-BASED REPRESENTATIVES OF MAJOR TEXTILES IMPORTING AND EXPORTING COUNTRIES.
IN BRUSSELS MR DORWARD WILL MEET SIR ROY DENMAN, THE DIRECTOR GENERAL RESPONSIBLE FOR THE EEC COMMISSION’S EXTERNAL RELATIONS.
FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 1980
3
THE VISIT TO LONDON WILL INCLUDE MEETINGS AND DISCUSSIONS WITH MINISTERS AND OFFICIALS OF THE FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE, THE DEPARTMENTS OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY, AND WITH PARLIAMENTARY AND OTHER GROUPS HAVING AN INTEREST IN TRADE IN TEXTILES.
THE PROGRAMME WILL CONCLUDE IN LONDON WITH THE ANNUAL MEETING BETWEEN MR DORWARD AND HEADS OF TICD’S OVERSEAS OFFICES.
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VALUATION LISTS FOR 1980-81 AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION
******
THE VALUATION LISTS FOR 1980/81 FOR HONG KONG ISLAND, KOWLOON, NEW KOWLOON AND ALL RATING AREAS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC FROM TOMORROW (SATURDAY), ACCORDING TO A NOTICE PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE LISTS INCLUDE THOSE DECLARED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF RATING AND VALUATION YESTERDAY IN RESPECT OF EIGHT NEW RATING AREAS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THEY WILL BE ON DISPLAY DURING NORMAL OFFICE HOURS FOR 21 DAYS ENDING MARCH 28, 1980 AT THE OFFICES OF THE COLLECTOR OF RATES -ROOM 202, HANG CHONG BUILDING, SECOND FLOOR, 5 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, HONG KONG.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT SAID THAT DURING THIS 21-DAY PERIOD ANY PERSON WHO DISAGREES WITH THE ENTRY OR OMISSION OF A TENEMENT IN OR FROM A LIST, OR THE RATEABLE VALUE ASSESSED, MAY SERVE ON THE COMMISSIONER OF RATING AND VALUATION A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE LIST.
FORMS FOR THIS PURPOSE ARE OBTAINABLE AT THE DEPARTMENT’S OFFICES AT 1 GARDEN ROAD AND ALSO FROM CITY DISTRICT OFFICES IN URBAN AREAS AND DISTRICT OFFICES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID PERSONS DISSATISFIED WITH THEIR ASSESSMENTS AND INTENDING TO LODGE A PROPOSAL ARE INVITED TO FIRST GET IN TOUCH WITH THE VALUER RESPONSIBLE FOR THE AREA IN WHICH THE PREMISES ARE SITUATED, WHEN ASSISTANCE AND ADVICE WILL GLADLY BE GIVEN. IF SUCH ENQUIRIES ARE IN RESPECT OF PREMISES ON HONG KONG ISLAND OR IN KOWLOON THEY SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO NEW MERCURY HOUSE, 17TH FLOOR, 22 FENWICK STREET, HONG KONG (TELi 5-281424), IF IN NEW KOWLOON OR THE NEW TERRITORIES TO TAI SANG COMMERCIAL BUILDING, SEVENTH FLOOR, HONG KONG (TEL: 5-284047 (FOR NEW KOWLOON) 5-284037 (FOR NEW TERRITORIES)).
HE STRESSED THAT, NOTWITHSTANDING THE LODGING OF A PROPOSAL OR AN APPEAL, RATES MUST BE PAID BY THE DUE DATE. IN THE CASE OF RATE DEMANDS FOR THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1980, THIS MEANS THAT PAYMENT MUST BE MADE BY THE END OF APRIL.
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FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 1980
4
YOUNG INMATES OBTAIN GOOD RESULTS IN TELECOMMUNICATION EXAMINATION ******
THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT’S PROGRAMME IN PROVIDING EDUCATIONAL AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING FOR YOUNG OFFENDERS HAS PROVED TO BE A GREAT SUCCESS.
THIS IS REFLECTED BY THE GOOD RESULTS OBTAINED BY 18 YOUNG PRISONERS AT PIK UK CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION AT THE RECENT TELECOMMUNICATION TECHNICIANS FIRST YEAR EXAMINATION OF THE CITY AND GUILDS OF LONDON INSTITUTE.
OF THE GROUP, SIX HAVE PASSED WITH DISTINCTIONS IN ALL THREE SUBJECTS IN THE EXAMINATION WHILE MOST OF THE REMAINDER PASSED THE SUBJECTS WITH EITHER DISTINCTIONS AND/OR CREDITS. THE THREE SUBJECTS ARE PRACTICAL MATHEMATICS, ENGINEERING SCIENCE AND TELECOMMUNICATION PRACTICE.
AT A CEREMONY HELD IN THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC TODAY (FRIDAY), THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WERE PRESENTED WITH THE CERTIFICATES BY THE DIRECTOR OF HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC, DR KEITH LEGG, IN HIS CAPACITY AS THE LOCAL SECRETARY OF THE CITY AND GUILDS OF LONDON INSTITUTE EXAMINATION CENTRE.
ALSO PRESENT WERE PARENTS AND RELATIVES OF THE RECIPIENTS, THE COMMISSIONER OF PRISONS, MR T G GARNER, AND SENIOR OFFICERS OF THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT.
SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY, MR GARNER, SAID A GOOD CORRECTIONAL SERVICE CALLED NOT ONLY FOR A HEALTHY AND UNSELFISH INPUT BY THE STAFF BUT ALSO CO-OPERATION FROM THOSE WHOM THE STAFF MUST LOOK AFTER, AND TODAY THE FRUITS OF THAT CO-OPERATION WERE WITNESSED.
HE SA IDi +S0 LONG AS IT IS NECESSARY FOR YOUNG PERSONS TO BE CONFINED IN INSTITUTIONS, IT IS NECESSARY FOR THOSE WHO ARE SUITABLE TO BE SUBJECTED TO A PROGRAMME WHICH CALLS FOR BOTH ACADEMIC AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING.
+SUCH TRAINING ENABLES THEM TO BE KEPT OCCUPIED DURING THE TIME THAT THEY ARE UNDER OUR CARE, IT KEEPS THEIR MINDS ACTIVE AND PUTS TO GOOD USE THE TIME WHICH THEY MUST SPEND WITH US. IN PARTICULAR, IT PLACES THEM IN A MORE FAVOURABLE POSITION FOLLOWING DISCHARGE.*
MR GARNER SAID HE WAS AWARE THAT IT WAS VERY EASY FOR PERSONS TO BE CRITICAL OF WHAT WAS HAPPENING TODAY IN A DESTRUCTIVE RATHER THAN CONSTRUCTIVE WAY PARTICULARLY IN STRESSING FAR TOO MUCH THE DETERRENT SIDE OF THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT’S WORK WITHOUT GIVING THE REHABILITATION ASPECT PROPER CONSIDERATION.
HE ALSO ADDED THAT THE IDEA OF REHABILITATION IN A FRAMEWORK OF DISCIPLINE HAD BEEN A POLICY PRACTISED BY THE DEPARTMENT FOR SOME YEARS.
AFTER THE CEREMONY, MR GARNER PRESENTED A SOUVENIR TO DR LEGG IN APPRECIATION OF THE SUPPORT AND CO-OPERATION HE AND HIS STAFF HAD GIVEN IN ARRANGING THE EXAMINATION FOR THE INMATES.
/OF THE
FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 1980
5
OF THE 18 CERTIFICATE RECIPIENTS, EIGHT HAVE ALREADY BEEN DISCHARGED AND RETURNED TO THEIR FAMILIES. AMONG THEM, FOUR ARE PRESENTLY WORKING IN THE FIELD OF ELECTRONICS AND THREE OTHERS STUDYING IN EVENING SCHOOLS FOR THE SECOND YEAR EXAMINATION.
THE REMAINING 10 WHO ARE STILL SERVING THEIR SENTENCE ARE ATTENDING THE SECOND YEAR OF THE COURSE WHICH INCLUDES THE SUBJECTS OF MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTER PRINCIPLES.
IN ADDITION, 14 OTHER YOUNG PRISONERS ARE ATTENDING THE FIRST YEAR OF THE COURSE.
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CAUSEWAY BAY OUTLINE ZONING PLAN REVISED
******
THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD TODAY (FRIDAY) PUBLISHED A REVISED DRAFT OUTLINE ZONING PLAN FOR CAUSEWAY BAY, INCORPORATING ONE AMENDMENT.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD SAID UNDER THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT, THE BOUNDARIES OF A SITE ZONED FOR GOVERNMENT, INSTITUTION AND COMMUNITY USE OFF VICTORIA PARK ROAD, HAD BEEN ADJUSTED TO INCLUDE A PORTION OF THE SEA TO BE RECLAIMED.
PROPOSALS WERE ALSO MADE TO REVISE THE SCHEDULE OF NOTES.
THE AMENDED PLAN MAY BE INSPECTED IN THE TOWN PLANNING
OFFICE, 17TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD- THE CITY DISTRICT OFFICE (CENTRAL AND WESTERN) ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, WEST WING ENTRANCE- THE CITY DISTRICT OFFICE (EASTERN), 884-886 KING’S ROAD, GROUND FLOOR- AND THE CITY DISTRICT OFFICE (wAN CHAI), TUNG WAH MANSION, 201 HENNESSY ROAD, GROUND FLOOR.
COPIES OF THE DRAFT AMENDMENT PLAN ARE ALSO ON SALE IN THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT’S CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY OFFICE, 19TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, AT $5 FOR AN UNCOLOURED COPY AND 825 FOR A COLOURED COPY.
ANY PERSON AFFECTED BY THE AMENDMENT TO THE PLAN MAY SUBMIT HIS OBJECTIONS IN WRITING TO THE SECRETARY, TOWN PLANNING BOARD, C/0 THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD.
OBJECTIONS AND SUGGESTED ALTERATIONS TO THE PLAN SHOULD REACH THE SECRETARY BEFORE MARCH 27, 1980.
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FOOTBRIDGE IN SHA TIN
*****
A FOOTBRIDGE OF A NEW DESIGN WILL BE BUILT OVER TAI PO ROAD TO LINK THE NEW SHA TIN RAILWAY STATION WITH THE NEW TOWN CENTRE.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT SAIDi +THE BRIDGE, WHICH IS 36 METRES WIDE, WILL HAVE TWO LEVELS,* HE SAID.
♦IT WILL PROVIDE NOT ONLY A SAFE COVERED CROSSING FOR TRAIN PASSENGERS BUT ALSO SPACE FOR SHOPS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE BRIDGE.*
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE FOOTBRIDGE, DESIGNED BY PWD CONSULTANTS, WILL ALSO SERVE AS AN EXTENSI-ON OF THE SHOPPING FACILITIES OF SHA TIN NEW TOWN.
TENDERS FOR THE FOUNDATION WORK OF THE FOOTBRIDGE ARE BEING INVITED.
THE WORK FORMS PART OF A PROJECT UNDER THE KCR ELECTRIFICATION AND MODERNISATION SCHEME WHICH INCLUDES THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW RAILWAY STATION, A PODIUM AND A TEN-STOREY BLOCK HOUSING GOVERNMENT OFFICES.
FOUNDATION WORK FOR THE NEW STATION HAS RECENTLY BEEN COMPLETED AND TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE PODIUM WILL BE INVITED SHORTLY, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
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OPENING OF TECHNICAL SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ******
THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR COLVYN HAYE TODAY (FRIDAY) OFFICIALLY OPENED THE LEUNG SHEK CHEE COLLEGE, AN AIDED TECHNICAL SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AT SAU MAU PING.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY MR HAYE PAID TRIBUTE TO MR K K LEUNG AND HIS BROTHERS WHOSE GENEROUS DONATIONS IN HONOUR OF THEIR LATE FATHER HAD MADE THE BUILDING OF THE COLLEGE POSSIBLE.
HE ALSO PRAISED THE DEDICATION OF THE COLUMBAN SISTERS WHO OPERATE THE SCHOOL. MR HAYE SAID THEY EPITOMIZED THE DEVOTION OF RELIGIOUS ORDERS TO THE WELFARE OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG. +WITHOUT THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE CHURCHES I DON’T KNOW WHERE WE WOULD BE,* HE SAID.
AT TODAY’S CEREMONY, THE MOST REV JOHN BAPTIST WU, BISHOP CF HONG KONG, BLESSED THE COLLEGE. THE SCHOOL NOW HAS 750 STUDENTS AND WILL EVENTUALLY PROVIDE FULL RANGE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION FROM Fl TO FVII.
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FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 1980
7
SWD TO HOLD FAMILY CARNIVAL *****
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD A CARNIVAL ON SUNDAY (MARCH 9) FOR 400 FAMILIES IN THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICTS ON HONG KONG ISLAND TO PROMOTE FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION.
THE HALF-DAY CARNIVAL WILL FEATURE AN EXHIBITION AND A FORUM ON HOW FAMILY MEMBERS CAN FOSTER CLOSER RELATIONSHIP AND BETTER UNDERSTANDING AMONG THEMSELVES.
THERE WILL ALSO BE GAMES STALLS AND A CHILDREN’S CORNER AT THE CARNIVAL WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 1.30 PM AT THE ST PAUL’S COLLEGE AT 69 BONHAM ROAD, HONG KONG.
THE CARNIVAL IS ORGANISED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S CENTRAL, WESTERN AND ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE AND SPONSORED BY THE LIONS CLUB OF HONG KONG ISLAND WEST.
IT WILL BE OFFICIALLY OPENED BY MR KU CHOON-KEUNG, SWD’S DISTRICT OFFICER (CENTRAL/WESTERN/ISLANDS), AND AN OFFICIAL OF THE LIONS CLUB.
NOTE TO EDITORSi
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE FAMILY CARNIVAL ORGANISED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND ITS OPENING CEREMONY WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 1.30 PM ON SUNDAY (MARCH 9) AT THE ST PAUL’S COLLEGE IN 69 BONHAM ROAD, HONG KONG.
YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA TO GIVE CONCERT *****
THE HONG KONG YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA OF THE MUSIC OFFICE WILL GIVE AN OPEN-AIR CONCERT AT EDINBURGH PLACE ON SUNDAY (MARCH 9) AT 11 AM.
THE CONCERT IS JOINTLY PRESENTED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE, CITY DISTRICT OFFICE (CENTRAL AND WESTERN), MID-LEVELS AREA COMMITTEE AND THE PROPERTY OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION OF THE CENTRAL DISTRICT.
APART FROM CHINESE ENSEMBLE MUSIC BY THE YOUTH ORCHESTRA, THERE WILL ALSO BE SOLO ITEMS OF ’BAN-HU’ AND ’DI —ZI' BY MEMBERS OF THE ORCHESTRA. THE PROGRAMME ALSO INCLUDES CHINESE DANCE, SOPRANO, TENOR AND BARITONE SOLO ITEMS.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES
BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
ON-THE-JOB TRAINING FOR CATERING STUDENTS OF TECHNICAL INSTITUTE .................................... 1
MORE FIRE PREVENTION CHECKS MADE LAST YEAR ............. 2
PLAY EQUIPMENT AT TAI TAM COUNTRY PARK ................. 5
YUEN LONG TO GET A NEV SERVICE RESERVOIR ............... 3
NEW ROAD FOR ABERDEEN ...................................
SAI KUNG CHILDREN'S CHOIR TO GIVE INAUGURAL CONCERT ... 't
FIRING PRACTICE .........................................
SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 1980
1
ON-THE-JOB TRAINING FOR CATERING STUDENTS OF TECHNICAL INSTITUTE
* X * *
CATERING STUDENTS AT THE MAKING WONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE ARE RECEIVING ON-THE-JOB TRAINING IN PLACES WHERE THEY WILL EVENTUALLY SERVE HONG KONG’S TOURIST INDUSTRY.
UNDER A PILOT SCHEME DRAWN UP BY THE HOTEL-KEEPING AND TOURISM STUDIES DEPARTMENT OF THE INSTITUTE, STUDENTS ARE SENT TO A HOTEL DINING ROOM OR KITCHEN TO GAIN EXPERIENCE TWO DAYS A WEEK IN ADDITION TO THREE DAYS OF FULL TIME STUDIES IN THE INSTITUTE FOR INTENSIVE RELATED TECHNI CAL•EDUCATION.
TWO CLASSES UNDER THIS 'INTEGRATED PROFESSIONAL COOKERY AND FOOD SERVICE PROGRAMME’ STARTED LAST NOVEMBER AND ARE PROGRESSING SATISFACTORILY WITH THE SUPPORT OF 15 HOTELS ARRANGED BY THE HONG KONG HOTELS ASSOCIATION.
♦THE PRIMARY AIM OF THE INTEGRATED PROGRAMME IS TO FIND A FORMULA FOR LINKING INDUSTRIAL EXPERIENCE WITH FORMAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION THAT WILL MORE EFFECTIVELY MEET THE NEEDS OF NEW ENTRANTS TO THE HOTEL INDUSTRY AND ESTABLISHMENTS THAT WILL LATER EMPLOY THEM,* SAID MR PETER KERRISON, HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT.
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE INTEGRATED COURSE WOULD GIVE A FULL PICTURE OF SHIFT WORK AND WORKING CONDITIONS IN LIKELY PLACES OF EMPLOYMENT TO THE STUDENTS WHO CAN IN TURN APPRECIATE AND EXPERIENCE REAL PROBLEMS AND WORKING BENEFITS.
WHILE UNDERGOING HIS ON-THE-JOB TRAINING IN A HOTEL, A STUDENT IS PAID ABOUT |20 A DAY. IN ADDITION TO TRANSPORT EXPENSES THIS SHOULD HELP HIM MEET THE COST OF FEES AND TEXTBOOKS.
♦HOWEVER THE IMPORTANT THING IS THAT THE STUDENTS ARE GIVEN AN EARLY INTRODUCTION TO A POSSIBLE LONG-TERM EMPLOYER WHILE GAINING EXPERIENCE AND WORKING FOR HIS CERTIFICATE IN HOTEL CATERING.
♦BESIDES, THE HOTELS CAN BE HELPED OUT BY SUPPORTING STAFF WHO ARE HIGHLY MOTIVATED, JOB STABLE AND OF GOOD QUALITY,+ MR KERRISON SAID.
THE POPULARITY OF THE SCHEME IS SUCH THAT MANY LEADING HOTELS ARE LENDING THEIR FULL SUPPORT.
IN ORDER TO ASSESS THE PERFORMANCE AND GENERAL SUITABILITY OF THE STUDENTS, THE HOTEL IS REQUIRED TO RETURN A PROGRESS REPORT ON EACH STUDENT ONCE EVERY TWO MONTHS TO THE INSTITUTE.
THE SUCCESS OF THE PROGRAMME WILL OPEN UP MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR PROSPECTIVE FULL-TIME STUDENTS AND WILL INCREASE THE NUMBER OF PLACES IN THE NEXT ACADEMIC YEAR FROM 160 TO 260, AND UP TO 300 IN 1981.
THIS WILL HELP THE HOTEL INDUSTRY WHICH IS YET FACING AN ACUTE SHORTAGE OF GOOD STAFF AND WHICH WILL SHORTLY REQUIRE ABOUT 30 PER CENT ADDITIONAL STAFF FOLLOWING THE COMPLETION OF NEW HOTEL PROJECTS.
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SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 1980
2
MORE FIRE PREVENTION CHECKS MADE LAST YEAR *****
THE FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU CARRIED OUT 289 780 INSPECTIONS LAST YEAR, ABOUT 10 PER CENT MORE THAN THE RECORD SET IN 1978.
AS A RESULT, A TOTAL OF 10 316 FIRE HAZARD ABATEMENT NOTICES WERE ISSUED AND 3 622 PROSECUTIONS TAKEN OUT WITH FINES AMOUNTING TO MORE THAN $1.1 MILLION IMPOSED.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE FIRE SERVICES SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) COMPLAINTS FROM THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTED FOR 68 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL INSPECTIONS WITH 162 684 RELATING TO MEANS OF ESCAPE AND 34 922 CONCERNING OTHER HAZARDS.
IN ADDITION, STAFF OF THE BUREAU PAID 13 431 REGULAR VISITS TO BUILDINGS TO ENSURE THAT CORRIDORS AND EXITS WERE FREE FROM OBSTRUCTION.
DURING THE YEAR, THE BUREAU CONDUCTED 45 921 INSPECTIONS OF FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL PREMISES AND 4 994 CHECKS ON VENTILATION SYSTEMS.
ANOTHER 12 700 VISITS WERE MADE TO RESTAURANTS, NIGHTCLUBS, SCHOOLS, CINEMAS, MATSHEDS, DANCE HALLS, BILLIARD ROOMS AND TIMBER YARDS.
CHECKS ON PREMISES USED FOR MANUFACTURE AND STORAGE OF DANGEROUS GOODS NUMBERED 6 656, AND 3 018 OTHERS WERE MADE ON VEHICLES USED FOR CONVEYING COMPRESSED GAS AND INFLAMMABLE LI QUID.
IN ADDITION ABOUT 3 000 INSPECTIONS WERE CARRIED OUT ON FIRE SERVICE INSTALLATIONS AND NEON SIGNS, AND 477 OTHERS ON CHILD CARE CENTRES.
THE BUREAU ALSO FINALISED 8 986 NEW BUILDING PLANS IN RESPECT OF ESCAPE MEANS AND FIRE SERVICE INSTALLATIONS AND ISSUED OR RENEWED 3 746 DANGEROUS GOODS AND TIMBER YARD LICENCES.
STAFF OF THE BUREAU ALSO INVESTIGATED 93 FIRES AND CONDUCTED 255 LECTURES AND EXHIBITIONS ON FIRE PREVENTION FOR STUDENTS, STAFF OF PRIVATE ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
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SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 1980
3
PLAY EQUIPMENT AT TAI TAM COUNTRY PARK * » » »
PLAY EQUIPMENT HAS BEEN INSTALLED AT THE TAI TAM COUNTRY PARK, THANKS TO A $50 000 DONATION FROM THE LIONS CLUB OF HONG KONG (CENTRAL).
AT A CEREMONY TO MARK THE COMPLETION OF THE PROJECT TODAY (SATURDAY), THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR JOHN RIDDELL-SWAN SAID THE CLUB APPROACHED THE COUNTRY PARKS AUTHORITY DURING THE YEAR OF THE CHILD, OFFERING A DONATION OF f50 000 TO BE USED TO BENEFIT THE CHILDREN OF HONG KONG.
♦THE IMPORTANCE OF PLAY TO THE GROWING CHI LD SHOULD NOT BE UNDER-ESTIMATED AND OUR COUNTRY PARKS OFFER IDEAL PLACES FOR THIS.
+THE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT IN THE PARKS IS HEALTHY, THE SURROUNDINGS BEAUTIFUL AND FREE FROM THE DANGERS OF TRAFFIC, NOISE AND POLLUTION OF THE CITY,* SAID MR RIDDELL-SWAN.
THE PLAY FACILITIES OF FIVE DIFFERENT DESIGNS WERE INSTALLED IN THREE LOCATIONS WITHIN THE TAI TAM COUNTRY PARK. BRINGING THE TOTAL OF CHILDREN’S PLAY SITES TO 20 WITHIN THE COUNTRY PARKS SYSTEM.
MR RIDDELL-SWAN SAID THE TAI TAM FACILITIES WHICH WERE IMPORTED FROM AUSTRALIA *ARE INTENDED TO STIMULATE THE CHILD TO USE HIS OWN IMAGINATION DURING HIS GAMES, THUS CONTRIBUTING TO THE LEARNING PROCESS.*
THE PRESENTATION WAS MADE BY PRESIDENT OF THE LIONS CLUB OF HONG KONG (CENTRAL), MR JOHN W H CHAN.
-------o----------
YUEN LONG TO GET A NEW SERVICE RESERVOIR
*****
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT WILL BUILD A NEW FRESH WATER SERVICE RESERVOIR IN YUEN LONG TO COPE WITH THE INCREASED DEMAND FROM NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE AREA.
THE NEW SERVICE RESERVOIR WILL BE BUILT ON A SITE NEXT TO THE EXISTING ONE AT AU TAU. IT WILL HAVE A STORAGE CAPACITY OF 16 000 CUBIC METRES.
TENDERS FOR THE WORK ARE BEING INVITED BY THE DEPARTMENT.
WORK ON THE PROJECT WILL BEGIN IN MAY AND WILL TAKE ABOUT 21 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
- - 0---------
A
SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 1980
NEW ROAD FOR ABERDEEN * * * *
A NEW SERVICE ROAD WILL BE BUILT SHORTLY ON THE ABERDEEN RECLAMATION NEAR THE ABERDEEN WHOLESALE FISH MARKET.
TENDERS FOR THE WORK ARE BEING INVITED BY THE HIGHWAYS OFFICE CF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT.
THE WORK WILL INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 200 METRES LONG AND 7.5 METRES WIDE TWO-LANE NEW CARRIAGEWAY WITH A FOOTPATH OF FOUR METRES WIDE ON ONE SIDE.
SOME 175 METRES OF STORMWATER DRAINS .WILL ALSO BE LAID IN THE PROJECT.
WORK WILL START NEXT MONTH AND TAKE ABOUT SIX MONTHS TO COMPLETE. ON COMPLETION, THE NEW ROAD WILL SERVE AS A TEMPORARY ACCESS FOR STATIONARY FLOATING CRAFT AND FERRIES WHICH WOULD BE MOVED TO THIS AREA TO MAKE WAY FOR THE SECOND STAGE OF RECLAMATION IN ABERDEEN.
THE WORKS HAVE BEEN DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTION WILL BE SUPERVISED BY THE HIGHWAYS (HONG KONG) DIVISION OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT.
------0-------
SAI KUNG CHILDREN’S CHOIR TO GIVE INAUGURAL CONCERT
X X X * * *
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, WILL TOMORROW (SUNDAY) OFFICIATE AT A CEREMONY MARKING THE INAUGURATION OF SAI KUNG CHILDREN’S CHOIR - THE FIRST DISTRICT-WIDE MUSIC GROUP TO BE SPONSORED BY THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD.
THE CEREMONY WILL TAKE PLACE AT 7.30 PM IN THE BAPTIST COLLEGE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL AND WILL BE FOLLOWED BY A MULTI-LINGUAL PROGRAMME OF 15 SONGS FROM AROUND THE WORLD.
THE CHOIR WAS FORMED MORE THAN A YEAR AGO IN CONJUNCTION WITH SAI KUNG RURAL COMMITTEE AND THE GOVERNMENT’S MUSIC OFFICE.
NOTE TO EDITORS!
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE INAUGURAL CONCERT OF THE SAI KUNG CHILDREN’S CHOIR. THEY ARE REQUESTED TO ARRIVE AT THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL NOT LATER THAN 7.15 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
------0 -------
FIRING PRACTICE
X X X X
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE HA TSUEN-CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON FRIDAY (MARCH 14) BETWEEN 9 AM AND 4 PM.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WARNED NOT TO ENTER THE RED FLAGS ARE FLYING DURING THE TIME OF PRACTICE.
AREA WHEN
- 0 - _
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG TEL: 5-233191
SUNDAY, MARCH 9, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
UK CAN PROVIDE CUSTOM-BUILT BUSES FOR HK .................... 1
APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR '.WELFARE PREMISES IN HOUSING ESTATES ............................................. 2
CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING CENTRE TURNS OUT CRAFTSMEN IN GOOD DSIAND ................................ 3
SAI KUNG CHILDREN’S CHOIR INAUGURATED ....................... 4
WATER CUT
5
SUNDAY, MARCH 9, 1980
1
UK CAN PROVIDE CUSTOM - BUILT BUSES FOR HK *****
BRITISH MANUFACTURERS ARE PREPARED TO BUILD LARGER BUSES SPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR HONG KONG, SAID MR JOHN SHEARMAN, CHIEF TRANSPORT OFFICER IN CHARGE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT PLANNING TODAY (SUNDAY).
MR SHEARMAN HAS RETURNED TO HONG KONG AFTER A MONTH-LONG TOUR OF BRITISH BUS MANUFACTURERS. DURING THE VISIT HE HAD A SERIES OF MEETINGS WITH BODY AND CHASSIS BUILDERS .TO GIVE THEM SOME IDEA OF HONG KONG’S LONG AND SHORT-TERM REQUIREMENTS. HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT THE UK INDUSTRY COULD SUPPLY UP TO 2 500 NEW DOUBLE DECKERS OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS.
RECENTLY, THE KOWLOON MOTOR BUS COMPANY AND THE CHINA MOTOR BUS COMPANY ANNOUNCED MASSIVE MODERNISATION AND EXPANSION PROGRAMMES THAT WILL COST ABOUT $1 500 MILLION.
THEIR PLANS INVOLVE THE PURCHASE OF DOUBLE DECKERS WITH ORDERS ESTIMATED TO BE IN THE REGION OF 400 TO 500 EACH YEAR DURING THE COURSE OF THE FIVE-YEAR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME.
MR SHEARMAN SAID THAT SOME UK MANUFACTURERS WERE NOT ONLY WILLING TO GIVE HONG KONG’S REQUIREMENTS THEIR TOP PRIORITY, BUT ARE ACTUALLY SEEKING THE PRIVILEGE OF BEING GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO IF ORDERS COME THEIR WAY.
HE SAIDi *UK MANUFACTURERS APPRECIATE THAT HONG KONG’S MARKET FOR BUSES IS SPECIALISED. THERE IS NOT A ’UNIVERSAL’ BUS FOR HONG KONG - RATHER ONE TYPE SUITABLE FOR HILLY ROUTES WITH NARROW ROADS AND ANOTHER TYPE FOR FLAT, TRUNK CORRIDOR ROUTES SUCH AS THE WATERFRONT ROAD AND CERTAIN MAJOR ROADS IN KOWLOON. THE UK CAN PROVIDE BOTH TYPES*.
MR SHEARMAN SAID THAT DURING HIS VISIT TO UK HE TOLD MANUFACTURERS THAT FORTHCOMING CHANGES TO THE REGULATIONS GOVERNING BUS COMPANIES IN HONG KONG WILL ENABLE THEM TO RUN 12-METRE LONG DOUBLE-DECKERS WITH A CAPACITY FOR AROUND 180 PASSENGERS ON CERTAIN SELECTED ROUTES. *THE MANUFACTURERS SEEMED TO BE VERY INTERESTED IN THIS AND ARE NOW EMBARKING ON PRELIMINARY DESIGN WORK,* HE SAID.
♦HOWEVER, IN ORDER NOT TO EXCEED AXLE-LOADING LIMITATIONS IT WILL PROBABLY BE NECESSARY TO DESIGN DOUBLE-DECKERS WITH POWER ASSISTED TWIN-STEERING. WE WILL BE WAITING TO SEE WHAT PROPOSALS THEY COME UP WITH.+
MR SHEARMAN ALSO VISITED MANUFACTURERS IN WEST GERMANY. HE SAID THAT IT IS APPARENT THAT THEIR CURRENT DOUBLE-DECKER MODELS WOULD REQUIRE MODIFICATION FOR HONG KONG’S OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE CONDITIONS, AND WERE UNLIKELY TO BE PRICE COMPETITIVE.
♦NEVERTHELESS,* HE SAID, *AT SOME TIME IN THE FUTURE
WEST GERMANY MAY BE ABLE TO PRODUCE A DOUBLE-DECKER SUITABLE FOR HONG KONG. ALTHOUGH THERE IS NO GOOD REASON TO GO ELSEWHERE AT THE MOMENT, WEST GERMANY DOES PROVIDE HONG KONG WITH AN ALTERNATIVE SOURCE OF SUPPLY SHOULD THE NEED ARISE.*
/MB SHEABMAN .....
SUNDAY, MARCH 9, 1980
2
MR SHEARMAN FELT, HOWEVER, THAT AS THINGS WERE NOW, THE UK REMAINED OUR BEST, IF NOT HONG KONG’S ONLY, PRACTICAL SOURCE OF SUPPLY IN TERMS OF QUANTITY OF PRODUCTION, GOOD DELIVERY DATES, BUSES SPECIALLY BUILT TO HONG KONG’S REQUIREMENTS AND PRICE COMPETITIVENESS.
♦PROVIDING WE PLACE OUR ORDERS FOR BUSES IN GOOD TIME, GIVING MANUFACTURERS FORWARD PROJECTIONS OF OUR NEEDS, THEN HONG KONG CAN LOOK FORWARD TO A MOST SATISFACTORY SUPPLY OF GOOD QUALITY DOUBLE-DECKERS,♦ HE SAID.
-----0------
APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR WELFARE PREMISES IN HOUSING ESTATES * * * * *
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT IS INVITING APPLICATIONS FROM VOLUNTARY WELFARE AGENCIES FOR PREMISES EARMARKED FOR WELFARE SERVICES IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) PREMISES IN A NUMBER OF ESTATES HAD BEEN RESERVED FOR RUNNING NURSERIES, HOSTELS AND CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY, CHILDREN’S AND YOUTH CENTRES, AND CLUBS FOR THE DISABLED.
HE SAID THE DEPARTMENT HAD WRITTEN TO VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND PROVIDED THEM WITH THE LATEST INFORMATION ON WELFARE PREMISES WHICH WERE EXPECTED TO BE AVAILABLE BEFORE 1985-86 IN ESTATES NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION OR TO BE BUILT SHORTLY.
THE DEPARTMENT, HE SAID, CONSTANTLY LIAISED WITH THE HOUSING AUTHORITY ON THE ALLOCATION OF WELFARE PREMISES TO ENSURE A BALANCED PROVISION OF WELFARE SERVICES IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID WELFARE PREMISES WITH A TOTAL FLOOR AREA OF AT LEAST 4 386 SQUARE METRES HAD BEEN RESERVED IN 11 HOUSING AUTHORITY ESTATES WHICH WERE EITHER BEING BUILT OR TO BE BUILT IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
THESE ARE ESTATES IN AP LEI CHAU AND CHAI WAN ON HONG KONG ISLAND- NGAU TAU KOK AND CLEARWATER BAY ROAD IN KOWLOON- AND IN SHA TIN, TUEN MUN, AND ON TSING Yl ISLAND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
O?1'TES HAVE ALS0 BEEN EARMARKED IN FIVE OF THESE ESTATES rno &E vB*u^?»*‘R"EEyR‘;?cEcru",T¥ cEmE wh,ch
ICAT IONS SHOULD REACH THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMFMT iu
&tS/L00R' 280 GL0UCES™
part icular^project, ^applicants*" would-be r^Suir^SSS^^oJid^^ta^.s of THE PROJECT ANd'a COPY OF THE IR CONSTITUT IM SeSbKSH^P?‘LS
FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE WELFARE PREMISES Awn tuc PROCEDURES FOR APPLICATION CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE PLAnI?L tCVELOPMENT SECTION OF THE SOCIAL V£LFARE DEPARTMENT (tEU “&»).
SUNDAY, MARCH 9, 1980
CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING CENTRE TURNS OUT CRAFTSMEN IN GOOD DEMAND ft ft ft ft
MORE THAN 1 200 YOUNG PEOPLE INCLUDING SEVERAL GIRLS HAVE COMPLETED TRAINING IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING CENTRE SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 1977.
THE CENTRE OPERATED BY THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY IS FINANCED BY A LEVY ON THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY. ON COMPLETING THEIR TRAINING, ALL THE TRAINEES JOINED THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WHERE THEY PUT THEIR SKILL AND KNOWLEDGE INTO PRACTICE THROUGH ON-THE-JOB TRAINING BEFORE BECOMING FULLY QUALIFIED CRAFTSMEN IN THEIR TRADES.
THE TRADES CATERED FOR BY THE CENTRE ARE BRICK-LAYING AND PLASTERING, CARPENTRY AND JOINERY, PAINTING, DECORATING AND SIGN-WRITING, PLUMBING AND PIPE-FITT I NG, BAMBOO SCAFFOLDING, MASONRY, PLANT MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS AND ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE AUTHORITY SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) THE CENTRE HAD PLAYED A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN REDUCING THE ACUTE SHORTAGE OF SKILLED LABOUR IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.
♦THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY HAS LONG BEEN PLAGUED BY A SHORTAGE OF SKILLED WORKERS AND WAS THEREFORE UNDULY STRAINED AS ITS ACTIVITIES PICKED UP IN THE MID 197OS.
♦TO COPE WITH THE HIGH LEVEL OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES AND THE INCREASED DEMAND ON AND NEW CHALLENGE TO THE INDUSTRY, THE INDUSTRY MUST INCREASE ITS PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH MECHANISATION AND EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT AS WELL AS HAVING A BETTER TRAINED, DISCIPLINED AND SKILLED LABOUR FORCE,♦ HE NOTED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT IN RESPONSE TO THE URGENT NEED OF THE INDUSTRY, THE AUTHORITY HAD APPLIED FOR AND WAS GRANTED BY THE GOVERNMENT A TEMPORARY SITE IN JUNE 1979 FOR THE TRAINING OF CONSTRUCTION PLANT OPERATORS, BAR-BENDERS, CONCRETORS AND LEVELLERS. THESE COURSES WERE STARTED WITHIN TWO MONTHS OF OBTAINING THE LAND.
MORE THAN 100 TRAINEES HAD COMPLETED SUCH TRAINING AT THE CENTRE AND WERE IN GREAT DEMAND BY THE INDUSTRY.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE CENTRE WAS NOW WELL-PLACED TO RESPOND RAPIDLY AND EFFECTIVELY TO ANY CHANGE IN THE MANPOWER REQUIREMENT OF THE INDUSTRY.
♦IT IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE THAT THE CENTRE RETAINS THIS ABILITY AND FLEXIBILITY IF IT IS TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE THE SERVICE WHICH THE INDUSTRY REQUIRES AND EXPECTS,♦ HE SAID.
SUNDAY, MARCH 9, 1980
SAI KUNG CHILDREN’S CHOIR INAUGURATED * * * *
THE SAI KUNG CHILDREN’S CHOIR, THE FIRST DISTRICT-WIDE MUSIC GROUP TO BE SPONSORED BY THE LOCAL DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD, WAS INAUGURATED THIS (SUNDAY) EVENING BY THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES.
THE CHOIR, FORMED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE SAI KUNG RURAL COMMITTEE AND GOVERNMENT’S MUSIC OFFICE, HAS 75 MEMBERS AGED BETWEEN SEVEN AND 12, ALL OF WHOM ARE LOCAL SCHOOL CHILDREN.
IT HAS BEEN SET UP TO PROVIDE A RECREATIONAL OUTLET FOR LOCAL CHILDREN AND TO ENCOURAGE THEIR MUSICAL TALENTS.
SINCE THE CHOIR’S FIRST TRAINING SESSION IN JANUARY LAST YEAR, IT HAS TAKEN PART IN EIGHT SUCCESSFUL CHORAL PRESENTATIONS INCLUDING A CONCERT AT ST JOHN’S CATHEDRAL TWO MONTHS AGO.
THIS EVENING THEY PRESENTED AN AMBITIOUS MULTI-LINGUAL PROGRAMME AT THE BAPTIST COLLEGE’S ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL BEFORE A PACKED AUDIENCE OF VIPS, HEADED BY MR AKERS-JONES, THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR COLIN BOSHER, AND THE MUSIC ADMINISTRATOR, MRS ELIZABETH WONG.
IT WAS THE CHOIR’S FIRST MAJOR PUBLIC APPEARANCE AND MARKED, AS MR AKERS-JONES SAID IN A BRIEF OPENING SPEECH, +A SMALL BEGINNING FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE.*
MR AKERS-JONES DESCRIBED THE ORGANISATION OF THE CHOIR THROUGH THE SUPPORT OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD, THE MUSIC OFFICE AND LOCAL SPONSORS AS *A SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT WHICH DEMONSTRATES VERY CLEARLY THE LOCAL COMMUNITY’S APPRECIATION OF CULTURAL ACTIVITIES, AND THEIR WILLINGNESS TO GIVE ENCOURAGEMENT TO YOUNG PEOPLE.*
CONGRATULATING THE CHOIR ON BEING ONE OF THE FIRST IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR AKERS-JONES SAID HE WAS VERY GLAD THIS INTEREST IN MUSIC AND SINGING WAS SPREADING TO ALL DISTRICTS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES WITH FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE ADVISORY BOARDS.
♦SINGING IN A GOOD CHOIR IS AN EXCITING EXPERIENCE, AND UNITY AND HARMONY IN MUSIC GIVE ENJOYMENT,* HE SAID.
♦I AM SURE THAT TONIGHT, AS THE SAYING GOES, ’THEY SING SO WELL WE CAN STILL HEAR THE ECHO OF THE SONG FOR THE NEXT THREE DAYS.*
AFTER THE CEREMONY, THE YOUNG CHORISTERS, ALL IN BRIGHT-COLOURED UNIFORMS, GAVE AN HOUR-LONG PERFORMANCE OF 15 CANTONESE, ENGLISH, ITALIAN, LATIN, MANDARIN AND HAKKA DIALECT SONGS.
THE CONCERT WAS SUPPORTED BY STUDENTS OF SAI KUNG SUNG TSUN MIDDLE SCHOOL, WHO, DRESSED IN CHINESE TRADITIONAL COSTUMES, PERFORMED A LION DANCE AND THREE CHINESE FOLK DANCES.
0 - - - -
/5
SUNDAY, MARCH 9, 1980
5
WATER CUT * * *
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER C," wcoickh uisr /■Jadcu^., ly^NED OFF FOR SIX HOURS FROM 9 AM TO 3 PM ON THURSDAY (MARCH 13) TO FACILITATE WATER WORKS. MUKbDAY
OF PREMISES IN WESTERN DISTRICT
AREAS_TO BE AFFECTED ARE BELCHER’S STREET BETWEEN $ ROAD WEST AND CADOGAN STREET, SAI WAN ESTATE VICTORIA ROAD, KA WAI MAN ROAD, SANDS STREET, CATCHICK STREET’AND SMITHFIELD.
- - 0----------------
t
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL 5-233191
MONDAY, MARCH 10, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
WEATHER IN FEBRUARY LESS SUNNY ........................... 1
MORE PEOPLE USE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE.................... 2
SURVEY ON LABOUR FORCE.................................... 3
SIX NT SITES FOR SALE .................................... 4
MINOR STAFF VACANCIES IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS ............ 4
NEW PLACE TO INSPECT DANGEROUS GOODS VEHICLES ............ 5
ACTIVITY APPROACH TEACHING CENTRE OPENS TO TEACHERS ...... 5
SECTION OF TAI HANG ROAD TO BE CLOSED
5
MONDAY, MARCH 10, 1980
1
WEATHER IN FEBRUARY LESS SUNNY
*****
LAST MONTH (FEBRUARY) WAS LESS SUNNY THAN NORMAL WITH RAINFALL BEING 9.6 MM ABOVE AVERAGE, ACCORDING TO THE MONTHLY WEATHER SUMMARY RELEASED BY THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY TODAY (MONDAY).
THE 54.5 MM OF RAIN RECORDED IN THE MONTH ALSO ENDED THE DRIEST FOUR-MONTH PERIOD EVER EXPERIENCED IN HONG KONG.
THE FIRST 10 DAYS OF THE MONTH WERE VERY COLD WITH DAILY MINIMUM TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 5.5 TO 11.4 DEGREES CELSIUS.
THE COLD SPELL WHICH STARTED ON JANUARY 30 LASTED FOR 12 DAYS DURING WHICH THE MEAN TEMPERATURE WAS 9.9 DEGREES CELSIUS, MAKING IT THE COLDEST 12-DAY PERIOD SINCE JANUARY 1900.
THE LOWEST TEMPERATURE FOR THE MONTH WAS 5.5 DEGREES CELSIUS WHICH WAS RECORDED AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY ON THE MORNING OF FEBRUARY 9. IT WAS ALSO THE LOWEST TEMPERATURE RECORDED SINCE DECEMBER 14, 1975.
THE MINIMUM TEMPERATURES RECORDED ON THE SAME MORNING AT TAI MO SHAN AND TATE’S CAIRN WERE -1.0 AND 0.2 DEGREES CELSIUS RESPECTIVELY.
THE WEATHER BEGAN TO IMPROVE ON FEBRUARY 11 AND THE FOLLOWING NINE DAYS WERE FINE AND SUNNY EXCEPT FEBRUARY 17 WHICH WAS MAINLY CLOUDY WITH SOME LIGHT RAIN. A SHORT PERIOD OF STRONG EASTERLY WINDS WAS ALSO EXPERIENCED OFF SHORE EARLY ON THAT DAY.
TEMPERATURES ROSE PROGRESSIVELY FROM FEBRUARY 11 AND ON THE AFTERNOON OF FEBRUARY 19 THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY RECORDED A MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 23.3 DEGREES CELSIUS WHICH WAS THE HIGHEST IN THE MONTH.
A WEAK COLD FRONT WAS NEAR HONG KONG ON FEBRUARY 21 AND CONDITIONS BECAME CLOUDY WITH A FEW PATCHES OF RAIN. THE FRONT DISSIPATED LATER IN THE EVENING BUT THE FOLLOWING DAY REMAINED CLOUDY WITH RAIN.
PERTURBATIONS IN THE UPPER ATMOSPHERE GAVE RISE TO A PERIOD OF UNSETTLED WEATHER FROM FEBRUARY 23 TO 27. EXCEPT FEBRUARY 24, THUNDERSTORMS OCCURRED EVERY DAY DURING THIS PERIOD.
THUNDERSTORMS IN FEBRUARY ARE RELATIVELY RARE IN HONG KONG AND THE LAST OCCASION WHEN THUNDERSTORMS WERE RECORDED AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY WAS IN 1966. FURTHERMORE, THUNDERSTORMS ON THREE CONSECUTIVE DAYS IN FEBRUARY WERE UNPRECEDENTED IN HONG KONG.
THE THUNDERSTORMS ON THE EARLY MORNING OF FEBRUARY 27 WERE ASSOCIATED WITH THE ARRIVAL OF A COLD FRONT COUPLED WITH PERTURBATIONS IN THE UPPER WESTERLY WIND FLOW.
/WINDS INCREASED .....
MONDAY, MARCH 10, 1980
2
WINDS INCREASED VERY ABRUPTLY AND GUSTS OF 77 KNOTS AND 55 KNOTS WERE RECORDED AT CHEUNG CHAU AND THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY RESPECTIVELY. THE GUST SPEED AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY ALSO EQUALLED THE RECORD FOR FEBRUARY WHICH OCCURRED ON FEBRUARY 11, 1960.
HAIL, WHICH HAS NEVER BEEN RECORDED IN FEBRUARY IN HONG KONG BEFORE, WAS REPORTED IN KWAI CHUNG AND REPULSE BAY.
AS THE COLD FRONT QUICKLY MOVED SOUTHWARDS AWAY FROM HONG KONG, THE WEATHER IMPROVED SLOWLY DURING THE AFTERNOON OF FEBRUARY 27 AND THE REST OF THE MONTH WAS MAINLY FINE.
DURING THE MONTH NO AIRCRAFT WERE DIVERTED FROM HONG KONG DUE TO ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS.
THUNDERSTORM WARNINGS WERE ISSUED ON FEBRUARY 23 AND 25 TO 27. THE YELLOW FIRE DANGER WARNING WAS IN EFFECT IN 10 DAYS AND THE RED WARNING IN THREE DAYS DURING THE MONTH. LOW TEMPERATURE AND FROST WARNINGS WERE ISSUED ON FEBRUARY 4 AND 5.
0 -------
MORE PEOPLE USE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE ft ft ft
THE 27
„ PUBLIC ENQUIRY COUNTERS OF THE HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT ^sU4Rn,H^HDLED 0VER 3*87 million REQUESTS FOR HELP BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
_ 1OAnlS^W?^A^J1NCREASE 0F 12*6 PER CENT 0VER THE 1978 FIGURE v* ABOUT 3 A37 000®
™E COUNTER SERVICE ANSWERED 1 287 133 ENQUIRIES, HANDLED 188 254 CASES AND DISTRIBUTED 2 394 818 FORMS AND PAMPHLETS.
IN VIEW OF THE GROWING DEMAND FOR THE VARIOUS TYPES OF SERVICES KI 2I*oRJh™/LANS to establish EVEN MORE CDO SUB-OFFICES IN Int NEAR FUTURE,
OF THE ENQUIRIES HANDLED LAST YEAR, 83 024 (6.45 PER CENT) WERE OR THE HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME, 54 9$2 (4.27 PER CENT) ON THE b^AI12?iA!JD TELEPHONE NUMBER OF GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 50 077 (3.89 PER CENT) ON TECHNICAL EDUCATION, 42 921 (3.34 PER CENT) ON
AND VACANCIES AND 41 104 (3.19 PER CENT) ON PUBLIC tXAM1 NAT I UNS•
FORMS IN GREATEST DEMAND INCLUDED THOSE FOR APPLICATION FOR F0R ™E H0NG ^TECHNIC TECHNICAL INSTITUTES (205 750), WALKS FOR A MILLION
p 500)» APPLICATION FOR HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME FLATS (123 485), APPLICATION FOR SITTING THE GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF EXAMINATION (ill 567) AND APPLICATION FOR PUBLIC HOUSING (69 724).
/STATUTORY DECLARATIONS .....
MONDAY, MARCH 10, 1980
CWnH i2vAI2J2tL>?E?4R£TIONS WERE STILL ADMINISTERED BY THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY COUNTERS AND THE MEDIATION UNIT AT THE DEPARTMENT’S
Ti?E NUMBER ADMINISTERED LAST YEAR WAS 177 386, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 12.6 PER CENT OVER THE PREVIOUS YEAR ™E ro^TcRE?o!,NT^?^LARATI0NS WERE F0R APPLICATION FOR SCHOLARSHIPS cab APPLICATION for entry to schools and colleges and
PUBL,C examinations, marriage registration and
tMl GRATI ON.
THE ENQUIRY COUNTERS ALSO HANDLED COMPLAINTS PERSONAL PROBLEMS AND PROVIDED MEDIATION SERVICE
, ATTENDED TO IN DISPUTES.
-----o------
SURVEY ON LABOUR FORCE * * *
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT WILL DO A NEW LABOUR FORCE SURVEY TO COLLECT UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ON THE ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF THE POPULATION.
THE REVIEW IS ONE OF A SERIES OF SIMILAR SIX-MONTHLY SURVEYS AND WILL TAKE PLACE DURING THE LAST TWO WEEKS OF THIS MONTH.
IT WILL BE TAKEN ON A SAMPLE BASIS COVERING ABOUT 16 000 HOUSEHOLDS THROUGHOUT ALL DISTRICTS OF HONG KONG.
BEFORE THE FIELD ENUMERATION BEGINS, AN OFFICIAL LETTER, IN BOTH CHINESE AND ENGLISH, WILL BE SENT TO THE SAMPLED HOUSEHOLDS EXPLAINING THE PURPOSE OF THE SURVEY AND SEEKING THEIR CO-OPERATION.
CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ENUMERATORS WILL VISIT THESE HOUSEHOLDS ON A DAY BETWEEN MARCH 19 AND APRIL 4. FOR IDENTIFICATION PURPOSES, THEY WILL BEAR AN OFFICIAL IDENTITY CARD WITH THEIR PHOTOGRAPH ON IT.
QUESTIONS TO BE ASKED IN THE SURVEY INCLUDE THE AGE, SEX AND EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT OF INDIVIDUALS- THE ACTIVITY STATUS, OCCUPATION, INDUSTRY, EARNINGS, HOURS OF WORK, AND PLACE OF WORK OF THOSE WORKING- AND THE TENURE AND RENT OF THEIR HOUSEHOLDS. INFORMATION WILL ALSO BE SOUGHT ON THE NUMBER OF DOCTOR CONSULTATIONS AND TYPE OF DOCTOR CONSULTED BY THE HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS.
ALL INFORMATION COLLECTED WILL BE KEPT IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENCE.
-------0---------
A
MONDAY, MARCH 10, 1980
4
SIX NT SITES FOR SALE
******
SIX LOTS OF CROWN LAND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES ARE TO BE SOLD AT A GOVERNMENT AUCTION TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE CITY HALL THEATRE.
THE SITES, TWO IN ISLANDS DISTRICT AND FOUR IN SAI KUNG, ARE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND OTHER DEVELOPMENTS INCLUDING ONE FOR A RETAIL FOOD SUPERMARKET.
THE AUCTION, WHICH WILL START AT 11 AM, WILL BE CONDUCTED BY THE CHIEF ESTATE SURVEYOR, NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, MR NIGEL BURLEY.
NOTE TO EDITORSi
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND STAFF TO COVER THE AUCTION. STAFF OF THE NTA PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT WILL BE PRESENT TO ASSIST PRESS REPRESENTATIVES.
-------o----------
MINOR STAFF VACANCIES IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS *****
FURTHER EXPANSION OF MEDICAL FACILITIES IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS HAS CREATED A NUMBER OF VACANCIES FOR AMAHS, ORDERLIES AND LABOURERS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WHICH HANDLES THE RECRUITMENT OF THESE STAFF SAID TODAY. (MONDAY) THE MONTHLY SALARY FOR THESE POSTS STARTED AT $1 175 RISING TO $1 250.
APPLICANTS FOR THE ORDERLY AND LABOURER POSTS SHOULD BE MALE, AGED 19 TO 45, WITH GOOD PHYSIQUE, AND BE ABLE TO WRITE SIMPLE CHINESE. SOME KNOWLEDGE OF ENGLISH WOULD BE AN ADVANTAGE, HE SAID.
THE AMAH POSTS ARE FOR FEMALES IN THE SAME AGE GROUP. OTHER ENTRY REQUIREMENTS ARE SIMILAR TO THOSE OF ORDERLIES AND LABOURERS.
THE DUTIES OF THESE STAFF ARE MAINLY CLEANSING, PERFORMING ERRANDS AND ATTENDING TO PATIENTS IN WARDS.
SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS WOULD BE REQUIRED TO WORK IN SHIFTS INCLUDING NIGHT DUTY.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID APPLICATIONS COULD BE MADE TO THE BRANCH OFFICE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT'S LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE. ENQUIRIES COULD BE MADE ON TELEPHONES 3-683764 AND 3-666615.
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/5
MONDAY, MARCH 10, 1980
5
NEW PLACE TO INSPECT DANGEROUS GOODS VEHICLES ft * ft * * *
ALL INSPECTIONS OF DANGEROUS GOODS VEHICLES WILL BE UNDERTAKEN AT THE NEW KOWLOON BAY VEHICLES INSPECTION CENTRE FROM NEXT MONDAY (MARCH 17).
PREVIOUS APPOINTMENTS FOR SUCH TESTS AT THE SOO KON PO VEHICLE EXAMINATION CENTRE WILL BE TRANSFERRED TO THE NEW INSPECTION CENTRE (TELj 3-7597505). ENQUIRIES MAY BE DIRECTED TO MR TONG NGA I KIN ON 5-768879.
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ACTIVITY APPROACH TEACHING CENTRE OPENS TO TEACHERS ft ft ft ft ft
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S ACTIVITY APPROACH TEACHING CENTRE IS INVITING HEADS OF PRIMARY SCHOOLS AND TEACHERS OF THE ACTIVITY APPROACH METHOD TO SEE THE RESOURCE MATERIALS ON DISPLAY THERE.
THE CENTRE, AT PAK FUK ROAD, NORTH POINT, WILL BE OPEN EVERY TUESDAY FROM 9 AM TO 12.30 PM AND 2 PM TO 4.30 PM BEGINNING NEXT
BESIDES SHOWING PUPILS’ WORK, IT ALSO PROVIDES REFERENCE AND SUPPORTING MATERIALS FOR USE BY TEACHERS AND SUGGESTIONS ON LEARNING ACTIVITIES FOR THE ACTIVITY APPROACH.
VISITS BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT CAN ALSO BE MADE BY EITHER CONTACTING THE CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT SECTION OF THE ADVISORY INSPECTORATE. TELi 5-774001 EXT 40, OR THE OFF ICER-IN-CHARGE OF THE ADVISORY INSPECTORATE TEACHING CENTRES, TELi 5-614364.
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SECTION OF TAI HANG ROAD TO BE CLOSED ft ft ft ft ft ft
ot..»»IHLSECT,0N TAI HANG R0AD between THE ROUNDABOUT WITH STUBBS ROAD AND ITS JUNCTION WITH BLUE POOL ROAD WILL BE CLOSED BETWEEN 3 AM AND 5.30 AM EACH NIGHT FROM WEDNESDAY TO SATURDAY (MARCH 12 TO 15).
THE ARRANGEMENT WILL HELP CONSTRUCTION WORK IN THE AREA.
DURING THE PERIODS OF CLOSURE, ROAD AS AN ALTERNATIVE ROUTE. TRAFFI GUIDE THEM.
MOTORISTS MAY USE STUBBS C SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO
- 0 -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL 5-233191
TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
YEAR BOOK UNVEILS LATEST FACTS ON HONG KONG ................... 1
GUANGZHOU AGRICULTURISTS HERE ON A VISIT ...................... 2
LEGCO MEETS TOMORROW........................................... 2
TAX EXEMPTION ON INTEREST RAISED............................... 3
SIX NT SITES SOLD FOR 556.9 MILLION ........................... 4
REGISTER NOW AS VOTERS FOR UC ELECTIONS ....................... 5
SNT TO LAY FOUNDATION STONE FOR SCHOOL ........................ 5
CONTRACTS AWARDED BY PWD IN JANUARY ........................... 6
WATER CUT IN KOWLOON TONG
6
TUESv.*Y* MARCH 11, 1980
YEAR BOOK UNVEILS LATEST FACTS ON HONG KONG ft ft ft ft
THOUSANDS OF NEW FACTS, FIGURES AND STATISTICS ON HONG KONG ARE UNVEILED IN THE NEW GOVERNMENT YEAR BOOK WHICH WILL GO ON SALE TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
HONG KONG 1980, WHICH ALSO CONTAINS 80 COLOUR PLATES, COSTS $22 AND IS AVAILABLE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GPO BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE. CITY DISTRICT OFFICES- NEW TERRITORIES DISTRICT OFFICES- AND LEADING BOOKSHOPS.
♦THE BOOK IS AN IMPORTANT SOURCE OF MATERIAL ABOUT HONG KONG AND AN ESSENTIAL REFERENCE ON THE CONTINUING PROGRESS AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE TERRITORY,+ A SPOKESMAN FOR THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES SAID.
A TOTAL OF 37 000 ENGLISH COPIES AND 11 000 CHINESE COPIES HAVE BEEN PRINTED TO MEET THE DEMAND FOR THE BOOK WHICH HAS BECOME A BEST-SELLER IN HONG KONG IN RECENT YEARS.
LAST YEAR, WHEN HONG KONG 1979 WAS PUBLISHED, MORE THAN HALF THE ENGLISH EDITION AND THREE-QUARTERS OF THE CHINESE EDITION WERE SOLD IN THE FIRST THREE MONTHS.
♦PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR BOOK IS ALWAYS EAGERLY AWAITED BECAUSE IT PRESENTS A VAST RANGE OF UP-TO-DATE FACTS AND FIGURES WITH COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHS OF A VERY HIGH STANDARD,+ THE SOPKESMAN SAID.
THE NEW EDITION GIVES ADDED VALUE THROUGH THE INCLUSION OF TWO SPECIAL REVIEW CHAPTERS. ONE EXPLORES THE EFFECTS OF THE VIETNAMESE REFUGEE INFLUX ON HONG KONG, WHILE THE OTHER HERALDS THE ADVENT OF THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY.
BOTH CHAPTERS ARE ILLUSTRATED BY PHOTOGRAPHIC SECTIONS.
OTHER PHOTOGRAPHIC SECTIONS IN THE BOOK COVER HONG KONG’S AUXILIARY SERVICES, THE FURNITURE INDUSTRY, THE POST OFFICE, THE ARTS, BOAT FESTIVALS, LANTAU ISLAND, CHILDREN AND EVENTS OF THE YEAR.
THE BOOK DEVOTES COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE TO SUCH TOPICS AS TRADE AND INDUSTRY, POPULATION, THE ECONOMY, SOCIAL SERVICES, IMMIGRATION, THE ENVIRONMENT, PUBLIC ORDER, COMMUNICATIONS, EMPLOYMENT, AND HONG KONG’S CONSTITUTION AND ADMINISTRATION.
IN ADDITION, THERE ARE MORE THAN 40 APPENDICES PROVIDING DETAILED STATISTICS.
HONG KONG 1980 WAS PRODUCED IN ENGLISH BY THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES, TRANSLATED BY THE CHINESE LANGUAGE DIVISION OF THE HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT, AND PRINTED BY THE GOVERNMENT PRINTER.
- o -
TUESDAY, MARCH 11,
1980
2
GUANGZHOU AGRICULTURISTS HERE ON A VISIT
* * * *
A DELEGATION FROM THE SOUTH CHINA AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE IN GUANGZHOU IS HERE ON A ONE-WEEK VISIT TO SEE AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENTS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE GROUP ARRIVED IN HONG KONG LAST (MONDAY) NIGHT AND STARTED THE PROGRAMME THIS MORNING WITH A BRIEFING BY THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR JOHN RIDDELL-SWAN, THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR, DR C T WONG, AND OTHER SENIOR STAFF OF THE DEPARTMENT.
THE PARTY IS ON A RETURN VISIT TO HONG KONG FOLLOWING A TOUR OF GUANGZHOU LAST DECEMBER BY SENIOR. STAFF OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT. THE DEPARTMENT PREPARED THE ITINERARY FOR THE VISITORS.
THE CHINESE DELEGATION IS LED BY DEAN OF THE SOUTH CHINA AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE, LI PEI-WEN, WITH ZOOLOGIST MRS LI PIN-YI AND PROFESSORS LIANG FU-REN, KUANG RONG-LU, LI YONG-LU AND LU FANG-YU.
TODAY THEY VISITED THE POULTRY BREEDING ESTABLISHMENTS AND VETERINARY DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORIES AT THE GOVERNMENT’S BREEDING CENTRE AT CASTLE PEAK AND INSPECTED FARMS IN THE TAI KONG PO AREA.
IN THE AFTERNOON THEY INSPECTED ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FACILITIES AT THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT’S SHEUNG SHUI FARM. THEY ALSO SAW PIG BREEDING AND ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION ACTIVITIES AT THE GOVERNMENT’S TA KWU LING PIG BREEDING CENTRE.
PROGRAMME FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK WILL INCLUDE VISITS TO THE TWO UNIVERSITIES, OCEAN PARK, THE KADOORIE AGRICULTURE FARM, PRIVATE FARMS AND ANIMAL FEED MANUFACTURERS.
THE DELEGATION WILL RETURN TO GUANGZHOU ON SUNDAY (MARCH 16).
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LEGCO MEETS TOMORROW * * M *
■ GOVERNMENT WILL BE ASKED TO GIVE A STATPMPNT at tuc
^TGHA^ATpV^C?ucC2bet?TEUN?..T0M0RR0W (WEDNESDAY) ’ONNTHETPROPOSALS
/The eon ....
/pjj^DAY, MARCH 11, 1980
3
THE HON WONG LAM WILL ASK THE GOVERNMENT ON WHAT STEPS ARE BEING TAKEN TO MONITOR THE SUPPLY OF DRUGS IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS AND CLINICS TO ENSURE THERE IS NO SHORTAGE AT ANY TIME OF THE YEAR.
ON TRADE, THE HON WONG PO-YAN WILL ASK WHAT STEPS THE GOVERNMENT IS TAKING TO PERSUADE THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT TO LIFT ITS DISCRIMINATION AGAINST HONG KONG IN EXCLUDING SEVEN ITEMS OF HONG KONG MERCHANDISE FROM ITS GENERALISED SCHEME OF PREFERENCE.
THE OTHER TWO QUESTIONS CONCERN A STUDY TO AIR-CONDITION AND MODERNISE THE AMBULANCE FLEET, AND THE HEUNG YEE KUK ELECTIONS.
A MOTION SEEKING TO REVISE THE FARE STRUCTURE COMPANY WILL BE INTRODUCED AT TOMORROW’S SITTING.
OF THE STAR FERRY
THE MOTION TO AMEND THE +STAR+ FERRY COMPANY (SERVICES) ORDINANCE, WILL BE MOVED BY THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT THE HON DEREK JONES. ’
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TAX EXEMPTION ON INTEREST RAISED It ft It If
INTEREST PAYABLE BY LICENSED BANKS, CERTAIN PUBLIC UTILITIES AND THE GOVERNMENT AT RATES OF UP TO 10-1/2 PER CENT PER ANNUM WILL BE EXEMPTED FROM INTEREST TAX FROM TODAY (TUESDAY). A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN ANNOUNCED.
HE SAID THIS REPRESENTS AN INCREASE OF 1-1/4 PER CENT IN THE EXEMPTION LIMIT AND FOLLOWS THE ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE EXCHANGE BANKS’ ASSOCIATION ON SATURDAY (MARCH 8) THAT THE RATE OF INTEREST PAYABLE ON SAVINGS ACCOUNTS WOULD BE SIMILARLY RAISED TO 10-1/2 PER CENT ALSO WITH EFFECT FROM TODAY.
SECTION 28 OF THE INLAND REVENUE ORDINANCE WAS AMENDED TODAY BY A PUBLIC REVENUE PROTECTION ORDER SIGNED THIS MORNING BY THE GOVERNOR, TO RAISE FROM 9-1/4 PER CENT TO 10-1/2 PER CENT THE CEILING ON THE POWER OF THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO INCREASE THE RATE UP TO WHICH INTEREST IS EXEMPTED FROM INTEREST TAX.
THE PUBLIC REVENUE PROTECTION ORDER THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, WERE PUBLISHED GAZETTE TODAY.
, AND THE NOTICE SIGNED IN AN EXTRAORDINARY
BY
TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 1980
4
SIX NT SITES SOLD FOR $56.9 MILLION
* * * *
A TOTAL OF $56.9 MILLION WAS PAID FOR SIX NEW TERRITORIES SITES WHEN THEY WERE AUCTIONED AT THE CITY HALL THIS (TUESDAY) MORNING.
FOUR OF THE SITES WERE IN SAI KUNG DISTRICT, ONE ON CHEUNG CHAU AND THE REMAINING SITE ON LANTAU.
THE HIGHEST PRICE PAID WAS $22.8 MILLION FOR A 3 231 SQUARE METRE SITE AT TUI MIN HOI, SAI KUNG, TO BE DEVELOPED FOR INDUSTRIAL/GODOWN PURPOSES. THIS REPRESENTS A PRICE OF $7 057 PER SQUARE METRE. THERE IS A REQUIREMENT FOR THE DEVELOPER TO PROVIDE SMALL FACTORY UNITS OF 75 SQUARE METRES EACH.
ANOTHER INDUSTRIAL SITE AT TUI MIN HOI MEASURING 2 638 SQUARE METRES WENT FOR $17.2 MILLION ($6 520 PER SQUARE METRE).
A SITE FOR A SUPERMARKET AT RAZOR HILL, CLEARWATER BAY. MEASURING 800 SQUARE METRES, REALISED $5.6 MILLION ($7 000 PER SQUARE METRE).
A RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT SITE AT TAI MONG TSAI, SAI KUNG MEASURING 2 420 SQUARE METRES WAS SOLD FOR $4.2 MILLION ($1 736 PER SQUARE METRE). DEVELOPMENT OF THE SITE IS LIMITED TO TWO-STOREYS.
THE FIRST SITE TO BE SOLD ON CHEUNG CHAU SINCE NOVEMBER 1973, REALISED $5.3 MILLION ($1 677 PER SQUARE METRE). THE SITE, MEASURING 3 160 SQUARE METRES, IS FOR LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT RESTRICTED TO TWO STOREYS. THE PLOT RATIO WILL BE ONLY 0.6.
A SITE FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT AT CHEUNG WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF THE BEACH WAS SOLD FOR ($2 105 PER SQUARE METRE). IT MEASURES 855 SQUARE WILL BE DEVELOPED AS VILLA TYPE HOUSING.
SHA, LANTAU $1.8 MILLION METRES AND
THE AUCTIONEER WAS A CHIEF ESTATE SURVEYOR OF THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, MR NIGEL BURLEY, WHO DESCRIBED THE RESULTS OF THE AUCTION AS +MOST ENCOURAGING*.
tTHESE ARE RECORD PRICES AND REFLECT THE CONTINUOUS DEMAND FOR LAND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES DISTRICT,* HE SAID.
THE AUCTION OF THE SIX SITES TOOK ABOUT ONE AND THREE QUARTER HOURS TO COMPLETE.
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/5
TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 198a
5
REGISTER NOW AS VOTERS FOR UC ELECTIONS ******
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO ARE ELIGIBLE TO REGISTER AS VOTERS FOR URBAN COUNCIL ELECTIONS ARE URGED TO DO SO NOW.
THE BIENNIAL URBAN COUNCIL ELECTORAL REGISTRATION CYCLE WHICH BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 15 WILL CLOSE ON JUNE 15, 1980.
MR KUO KET-CHEN, REGISTRATION OFFICER FOR THE 1980 URBAN COUNCIL ELECTION REGISTRATION SAID, +URBAN COUNCIL-ELECTIONS ARE HELD EVERY OTHER YEAR, SOME POTENTIAL VOTERS MAY BE UNAWARE OF THE NEED TO BE REGISTERED AS AN ELECTOR BEFORE THEY CAN VOTE AT AN ELECT ION.+
HE EXPLAINED THAT THIS IS BECAUSE APPLICATIONS HAVE TO BE EXAMINED TO VERIFY THE ELIGIBILITY OF THE APPLICANTS- AND A PROVISIONAL REGISTER HAS TO BE COMPILED FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION BEFORE THE ACTUAL ELECTION.
TO REGISTER AS A VOTER IS EASY. ALL A PERSON HAS TO DO IS TO OBTAIN AN APPLICATION FORM, FILL IN SIMPLE PERSONAL DETAILS, AND RETURN IT POSTAGE FREE TO THE REGISTRATION OFFICE. THE REGISTRATION IS COMPLETE ONCE AN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT HAS BEEN RECEIVED AND WILL STAY VALID ON THE ELECTORAL ROLL UNTIL 1984.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT ALL CITY DISTRICT OFFICES, DISTRICT OFFFICES OF NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, POST OFFICES, IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT BRANCH OFFICES, REGISTRATION OF PERSONS OFFICES- BIRTH, DEATH AND MARRIAGE REGISTRIES. DETAILS OF THE PROCEDURE AS WELL AS THE FRANCHISE ARE ANNEXED TO THE APPLICATION FORM.
ENQUIRIES CONCERNING REGISTRATION MATTERS CAN BE MADE BY TELEPHONING 5-769567.
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NOTE TO EDITORSi
SNT TO LAY FOUNDATION STONE FOR SCHOOL *****
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES. WILL OFFICIATE AT THE FOUNDATION STONE LAYING CEREMONY OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS’ YOW KAM YUEN COLLEGE IN SHA TIN NEW TOWN TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) AT 11 AM.
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE CEREMONY. A GOVERNMENT VAN (AM 2088) WILL LEAVE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER, TSIM SHA TSUI, AT 10.15 AM SHARP. PRESS MEMBERS USING THEIR OWN TRANSPORT SHOULD MEET MR DONALD STRANGE OF THE NEW TERRITORIES ADM NISTRATION OUTSIDE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE NOT LATER THAN 10.45 AM
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/6
TUESDAY, MARCH 11, 1980
6
CONTRACTS AWARDED BY PWD IN JANUARY
******
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT AWARDED A TOTAL OF 43 CONTRACTS WORTH MORE THAN $440 MILLION IN JANUARY.
OF THESE, 26 WERE AWARDED ON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE CENTRAL TENDER BOARD AND OTHERS ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE PWD TENDER BOARD.
ONE OF THE LARGEST CONTRACTS WAS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF SEAWALL AND RECLAMATION AT THE WESTERN PORTION OF TSUEN WAN BAY IT IS WORTH MORE THAN $144 MILLION. '
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WATER CUT IN KOWLOON TONG ******
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF PREMISES IN KOWLOON TONG WILL BE TURNED OFF FOR SEVEN HOURS FROM 11 PM ON THURSDAY (MARCH 13) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY FOR WATER WORKS.
THE AREA TO BE AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY JUNCTION ROAD. KAM SHING ROAD, RENFREW ROAD, WATERLOO ROAD, CORNWALL STREET AND KENT ROAD INCLUDING EDE ROAD, DORSET CRESCENT, SOMERSET ROAD, SUFFOLK ROAD, NORFOLK ROAD, YORK ROAD AND HEREFORD ROAD.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG TEL 5-233191
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNMENT'S INTENTION TO PROTECT TENANTS REAFFIRMED ............ 1
LEGCO APPROVES STAR FERRY FARS RISE ............................. 2
FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO VISIT CHIN~ .............................. 2
YEAR OF TRIAL AND ACHIEVEMENT FOR HONG KONG ..................... 5
JAPAN URGED TO LIFT TRADE DISCRIMINATION AGAINST HK ............. 5
LAW ON CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT OF WOMEN AND YOUNG PERSONS IN INDUSTRY ............................................. 6
ARRANGEMENTS FOR GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTS ............................ 7
MEASURES TO KEEP SUB.'.iYS SAFE FOR USERS ....................... 8
MORE NE,7 AMBULANCES ON WAY ..................................... 8
EDUCATION GREEN PAPER TO BE SUBMITTED TO GOVERNORIN-COUNCIL SOON ................................................. 9
NO SHORTAGE IN SUPPLY OF DRUGS IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS AND CLINICS ..................................................... 9
MONITORING OF HEUNG YEE KUK ELECTIONS .......................... 10
SNT LAYS FOUNDATION STONE FOR NEW SCHOOL IN SHA TIN ............ 10
LIVESTOCK POPULATION DOUBLES IN FOUR YEARS ..................... 11
SPECIAL TRAINS TO SHa TIN RiCE COURSE........................... 11
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SHA TIN AND WANG TAU HOM ............... 12
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
1
GOVERNMENT’S INTENTION TO PROTECT TENANTS REAFFIRMED ******
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL WILL AT ONCE INTRODUCE AMENDING LEGISLATION TO GIVE TENANTS THE PROTECTION ORIGINALLY INTENDED AND TO PUT THE MATTER BEYOND ARGUMENT IF THE APPEAL BY THE TENANT IN THE RECENT DISTRICT COURT CASE FAILS.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON JOHN BREMRIDGE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON JOHN GRIFFITHS SAID HE WAS TOLD BY THE TENANT’S LAWYERS THAT THEY HAD BEEN INSTRUCTED TO APPEAL AGAINST THE DECISION BY HIS HONOUR JUDGE BEWLEY LAST FRIDAY.
MR GRIFFITHS SAID IT WAS NOT TRUE THE BELIEF IN CERTAIN QUARTERS THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS PURSUING THAT APPEAL.
♦THE GOVERNMENT WAS NOT A PARTY TO THE PROCEEDINGS WHICH WERE BETWEEN THE LANDLORD AND HIS TENANT, AND CONSEQUENTLY NEITHER THE ATTORNEY GENERAL NOR ANYONE ELSE ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO APPEAR, SAVE IN EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN THE COURT SO INVITES,* HE SAID.
HOWEVER HE SAID HE UNDERSTOOD THE COURT OF APPEAL WAS LIKELY TO EXPEDITE THE HEARING OF THE CASE, WHICH CONCERNS A MATTER OF PUBLIC IMPORTANCE. IT IS HOPED THAT THE HEARING WILL TAKE PLACE WITHIN THE NEXT MONTH OR SO.
HE POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS IMPROPER FOR HIM TO COMMENT ON THE DECISION OR THE LIKELY RESULT OF THE APPEAL.
♦THE JUDICIARY IN HONG KONG IS INDEPENDENT AND IT IS THEIR JOB ALONE TO INTERPRET LEGISLATION AND DECIDE WHAT ARE THE LEGAL RIGHTS OF CITIZENS UNDER ORDINANCES PASSED BY THIS COUNCIL,+ HE SAID.
IF THE APPEAL WAS LOST AND THE LEARNED JUDGE’S DECISION WAS UPHELD, +THEN IT WOULD SHOW THAT IN THE DRAFTING OF THIS ORDINANCE, I HAVE NOT CORRECTLY CARRIED FORWARD THE INTENTIONS OF THIS COUNCIL WHICH WAS EXPLAINED TO THE COUNCIL BY THE SECRETARY FOR HOUSING IN HIS SPEECH ON JANUARY 16,+ HE SAID.
IN THE MEANTIME, HE REPEATED HIS ADVICE TO BOTH LANDLORDS AND TENANTS THAT IT WOULD BE PRUDENT FOR THEM TO AWAIT THE DECISION OF THE COURT OF APPEAL BEFORE TAKING ANY ACTION THAT MAY AFFECT EXISTING TENANCIES.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
2
LEGCO APPROVES STAR FERRY FARE RISE
*****
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) APPROVED FARE RISE ON THE STAR FERRY COMPANY’S EDINBURGH PLACE TO TSIM SHA TSUI SERVICE WITH EFFECT FROM APRIL 1.
THE FIRST CLASS FARES WILL BE RAISED FROM 30 CENTS TO 50 CENTS FOR ADULTS AND FROM 20 CENTS TO 30 CENTS FOR CHILDREN- AND THE SECOND CLASS FARES FOR BOTH ADULTS AND CHILDREN FROM 20 CENTS TO 30 CENTS.
THE CHARGE FOR MONTHLY TICKETS WILL ALSO RISE FROM $12 TO $22.50 FOR ADULTS, AND FROM $6 TO $11.30 FOR CHILDREN.
MOVING A MOTION TO AMEND A SCHEDULE IN THE +STAR+ FERRY COMPANY (SERVICES) ORDINANCE, THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, THE HON DEREK JONES SAID THE MAIN REASON FOR THESE FARE INCREASES WAS TO OFFSET A LOSS OF REVENUE EXPECTED BECAUSE OF A REDUCTION IN THE NUMBER OF PASSENGERS USING THE FERRY FOLLOWING THE OPENING OF THE CROSS HARBOUR SECTION OF THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY.
♦ALTHOUGH IT IS STILL TOO SOON TO PREDICT PASSENGER FIGURES WITH CERTAINTY SO SOON AFTER THE OPENING OF THE MTR, EXPERIENCE SO FAR WOULD SEEM TO SHOW THAT THE COMPANY’S PREDICTION OF A 30 PER CENT LOSS OF PASSENGERS IS NOT UNREASONABLE,* MR JONES SAID.
+A DROP IN PASSENGERS OF THIS MAGNITUDE WOULD VIRTUALLY WIPE OUT THE PROFITABILITY OF THE COMPANY IN 1980 AND IT IS CLEAR THAT AN INCREASE IN FARES IS REQUIRED TO OFFSET THIS,* HE ADDED.
MR JONES POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS PREDICTED THAT THE INCREASES IN FARES WOULD GENERATE A PROFIT IN 1980 OF ABOUT $3 MILLION, WHICH WAS SIMILAR TO THE PROFITS MADE BY THE COMPANY SINCE 1977 AND WAS REASONABLE IN ALL THE CIRCUMSTANCES.
MR JONES ADDED THAT SINCE THE OPENING OF THE CROSS HARBOUR SECTION OF THE MTR, THE WAITING TIME FOR THE STAR FERRY AT PEAK PERIODS HAD BEEN REDUCED FROM AN AVERAGE OF MORE THAN 12 MINUTES TO AN AVERAGE OF ABOUT THREE MINUTES.
+THIS, IN EFFECT, MEANS A BETTER SERVICE FOR THOSE USING THE FERRY AND IT SHOULD GO SOME WAY TO COMPENSATE PASSENGERS FOR THE INCREASE IN FARES I AM NOW PROPOSING,* MR JONES SAID.
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FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO VISIT CHINA ******
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (WEDNESDAY) CONFIRMED THAT THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, SIR PHILIP HADDON-CAVE, WILL VISIT CHINA IN “RrJEMJktlJ!!E0/NrV^T^NrROADe“ Xl YESHENG- DEP‘RT"E"T‘L DIREE™
HE WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY LADY HADDON-CAVE AND THE POLITICAL ADVISOR, DR DAVID WILSON.
DETAILED ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE VISIT ARE STILL BEING MADE.
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/3....
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
~5
YEAR OF TRIAL AND ACHIEVEMENT FOR HONG KONG ******
TWO CONTRASTING ASPECTS OF THE HONG KONG SCENE - THE VIETNAMESE REFUGEE PROBLEM AND THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY -ARE SPOTLIGHTED IN THE GOVERNMENT’S NEW YEAR BOOK PUBLISHED TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE TWO TOPICS - ONE ABOUT A THREAT TO HONG KONG’S CONTINUING PROGRESS AND THE OTHER ABOUT A SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT FOR THE TERRITORY - ARE FEATURED IN TWO SPECIAL REVIEW CHAPTERS IN THE HONG KONG 1980.
THE BOOK, PRICED AT $22 EACH, IS EXTENSIVELY ILLUSTRATED WITH PICTURE SECTIONS IN FULL COLOUR. IT IS AVAILABLE IN CHINESE AND ENGLISH EDITIONS AND IS BEING SOLD AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GPO BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE- CITY DISTRICT OFFICES- NEW TERRITORIES DISTRICT OFFICES AND LEADING BOOKSHOPS.
THE TWO REVIEW CHAPTERS COVERING IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTS IN HONG KONG IN 1979 ARE INDICATIVE OF THE EVENTFUL YEAR THE TERRITORY EXPERIENCED.
♦THE INFLUX OF THESE (VIETNAMESE) REFUGEES, TOGETHER WITH LARGE-SCALE IMMIGRATION FROM CHINA, RAISED REAL FEARS THAT A DECADE OF ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL ACHIEVEMENT MIGHT BE UNDERMINED, COMMUNAL STABILITY IMPAIRED, AND PLANS FOR FURTHER PROGRESS THROWN OUT OF GEAR,+ THE YEAR BOOK SAYS IN ITS FIRST CHAPTER ENTITLED: +THE BOAT REFUGEES FROM VIETNAM+.
THE CHAPTER TRACES THE PROGRESS OF THE BURGEONING REFUGEE PROBLEM WHICH REACHED +CRISIS PROPORTIONS* IN THE MIDDLE OF THE YEAR WHEN HUNDREDS OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE WERE FLOODING INTO HONG KONG EACH DAY, CROWDING INTO CAMPS ALREADY HOLDING 50 000 PEOPLE.
♦THESE BOATS, ARRIVING DAILY IN HONG KONG, MOORED NOT AT SOME DISCREETLY DISTANT BEACH BUT IN THE HEART OF THE CITY,+ THE YEAR BOOK SAYS. ♦THEY MOVED THROUGH THE HARBOUR TO THE GOVERNMENT DOCKYARD AT CANTON ROAD, WHERE THEY TIED UP BESIDE ONE OF THE MOST CROWDED DISTRICTS OF KOWLOON, OBSERVED BY THOUSANDS OF APPREHENSIVE RESIDENTS.♦
EQUALLY ALARMING DEVELOPMENTS IN THE PATTERN OF IMMIGRATION, LEGAL AND ILLEGAL, FROM CHINA EXACERBATED ANXIETIES CAUSED BY THE INFLOW OF BOAT REFUGEES, THE YEAR BOOK SAYS. THE PRESSURE OF THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE TRYING TO GET INTO HONG KONG ACROSS THE LAND BORDER OR BY SEA PERSISTED AT VARYING LEVELS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.
ON THE VIETNAMESE REFUGEE SITUATION, HONG KONG’S GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE IS QUOTED AS SAYING: +BY HARD WORK, SOCIAL ADAPTABILITY AND REALISM BASED ON ACCEPTANCE OF THE FACT THAT RESOURCES ARE LIMITED, THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG HAVE MADE FOR THEMSELVES A STRUCTURE OF LIFE ENORMOUSLY BETTER THAN 10 YEARS AGO. IT IS THE BENEFITS OF THIS STRUCTURE THAT THEY FEAR MAY BE ERODED BY THIS INFLUX OF BOAT REFUGEES OVER WHICH THEY HAVE NO CONTROL.+
/WHEN 1979 .....
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
4
WHEN 1979 ENDED, THERE WERE VIETNAMESE REFUGEES IN HONG KONG AND THE SPECTRE OF MORE REFUGEES
STILL MORE THAN 55 OOO CAMPS AWAITING RESETTLEMENT, ARRIVING HUNG OVER 1980.
♦IT WOULD BE AGREEABLE TO RECORD THAT 1979 ENDED WITH A CLEAR-CUT CONCLUSION^ THE YEAR BOOK SAYS, +THAT, AS A RESULT OF THE UNDERTAKINGS AND PLEDGES GIVEN AT THE GENEVA CONFERENCE IN JULY, HONG KONG WAS ASSURED THAT BY A CERTAIN DATE ALL OF THE REFUGEES IT HAD HARBOURED WOULD BE RESETTLED ELSEWHERE, AND THAT THE FEAR OF A RENEWED INFLUX HAD BEEN DISPELLED.
♦UNFORTUNATELY, REAL LIFE IS RARELY SO TIDY.+
HONG KONG 1980’S SECOND REVIEW CHAPTER ENTITLED* +ENTER THE MTR+ IS ABOUT THE OPENING OF HONG KONG’S MOST SPECTACULAR UNDERTAKING - THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY.
♦HONG KONG HAS MARKED ITS ENTRY INTO THE 1980’S WITH A SIGNIFICANT NEW ACHIEVEMENT* AFTER 10 YEARS OF INVESTIGATION, DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION, A MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY IS NOW IN OPERATION LINKING MAJOR URBAN CENTRES IN KOWLOON WITH HONG KONG ISLAND,* THE YEAR BOOK SAYS.
THE BOOK POINTS OUT THAT THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE RAILWAY IS NOT ONLY HONG KONG’S LARGEST-EVER ENGINEERING PROJECTS* IN WORLD TERMS, IT RANKS AS ONE OF THE LARGEST AND MOST CHALLENGING PROJECTS EVER CARRIED OUT.
♦IT HAS BEEN A MAJOR UNDERTAKING IN OTHER WAYS TOO -NOTABLY IN TERMS OF ALLEVIATING AND COPING WITH THE INEVITABLE DISRUPTION IT HAS CAUSED, IN VARYING DEGREES, TO VIRTUALLY ALL bEMBERS OF THE POPULATION,* THE YEAR BOOK SAYS.
♦EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO MINIMISE THIS, BUT THERE HAVE BEEN YEARS OF NOISE, DIRT AND INCONVENIENCE, WITH NOT A FEW PEOPLE HAVING TO MOVE HOMES OR BUSINESSES TO MAKE WAY FOR THE RAILWAY.+
THE CHAPTER DISCUSSES THE AMBITIOUS CONCEPT OF THE RAILWAY FROM ITS PLANNING THROUGH TO FINANCING, CONTRACT LETTING AND CONSTRUCTION. IT COVERS THE RAILWAY’S OPERATIONS, SAFETY AND SECURITY, RELATED DEVELOPMENT, AND LOOKS AT FUTURE TRANSPORT PLANS.
THE YEAR BOOK REVEALS THAT BY THE END OF 1979 THE GOVERNMENT HAD PAID $259 MILLION IN COMPENSATION - $28 MILLION FOR PECUNIARY LOSSES RESULTING FROM THE DISRUPTION CAUSED BY ADJACENT MTR WORKS AND $231 MILLION FOR PROPERTIES RESUMED, SITES CLEARED AND CIVIC FACILITIES REPROVIDED.
THE MODIFIED INITIAL SYSTEM OF THE MTR, RUNNING 15.6 KILOMETRES AND LINKING 15 STATIONS, COST $5 800 MILLION. THE 10.5-KILOMETRE TSUEN WAN EXTENSION, SCHEDULED TO OPEN IN 1982, IS COSTING $4 100 MILLION.
♦BY THE MID-1980’S, THE NUMBER OF DAILY PASSENGER JOURNEYS IS EXPECTED TO REACH ONE MILLION ON THE MODIFIED INITIAL SYSTEM, WITH THE TSUEN WAN EXTENSION ADDING A FURTHER 800 000,+ THE YEAR BOOK SAYS.
/+THESE FIGURES
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
5
♦THESE FIGURES WILL MAKE THE RAILWAY THE MOST HEAVILY UTILISED IN THE WORLD. WHEN THE FULL MTR SYSTEM IS OPERATIONAL, 40 PER CENT OF ALL HOMES AND 50 PER CENT OF WORK PLACES WILL BE WITHIN 10 MINUTES’ WALK OF A MTR STATION.*
HONG KONG 1980 WAS PRODUCED IN ENGLISH BY THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES, TRANSLATED BY THE CHINESE LANGUAGE DIVISION OF THE HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT AND PRINTED BY THE GOVERNMENT PRINTER.
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JAPAN URGED TO LIFT TRADE DISCRIMINATION AGAINST HK *****
THE HONG KONG AND THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENTS HAVE BEEN HOLDING DISCUSSIONS FOR SOME TIME ON THE REMOVAL OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST HONG KONG PRODUCTS FROM THE JAPANESE GENERALISED SCHEME OF PREFERENCES.
THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF TRADE, INDUSTRY AND CUSTOMS, THE HON ^T^L.TSA2 SAID TH,S T0DAY (WEDNESDAY) IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, IN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON WONG PO-YAN ON THE STEPS BEING TH£ GOVERNMENT TO PERSUADE THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT TO LIFT TS DISCRIMINATION AGAINST HONG KONG IN EXCLUDING SEVEN HONG KONG ITEMS FROM ITS GSP.
SAID‘ +TH1S SUBJECT WAS ALSO RAISED BY THE HONG KONG DELEGATION AT THE JOINT MEETING OF THE JAPAN/HONG KONG BUSINESS CO-OPERATION COMMITTEES HELD IN TOKYO IN NOVEMBER 1979. MY DEPARTMENT HAS SINCE MADE FURTHER REPRESENTATIONS THROUGH THE JAPANESE CONSUL-GENERAL IN HONG KONG, SETTING OUT THE GROUNDS FOR THE REMOVAL OF THIS DISCRIMINATION.
+0N FEBRUARY 26, 1980, THE JAPANESE CONSUL-GENERAL CALLED AT THE DEPARTMENT TO DELIVER HIS GOVERNMENT’S REPLY IN PERSON. THAT REPLY INDICATED THAT THE EXISTING SCHEME WOULD TERMINATE AT THE END OF MARCH 1981, AND THAT A MAJOR REVIEW WOULD BE UNDERTAKEN SHORTLY WITH A VIEW TO FORMULATING A SCHEME TO SUCCEED THE CURRENT ONE.
♦THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT HAS CONFIRMED THAT HONG KONG’S REPRESENTATIONS WILL BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT IN THIS REVIEW,+ MR TSAO
♦THE LATEST OCCASION ON WHICH THE MATTER WAS RAISED WITH THE JAPANESE AUTHORITY WAS A MEETING THIS MORNING BETWEEN YOUR EXCELLENCY AND MR SONODA, THE FORMER JAPANESE FOREIGN MINISTER WHO IS PASSING THROUGH HONG KONG ON HIS WAY BACK FROM A TOUR OF THE MIDDLE-EAST AS THE PRIME MINISTER’S SPECIAL ENVOY,+ HE ADDED.
THE ORIGINAL SCHEME, PROMULGATED BY JAPAN IN 1972, EXCLUDED HONG KONG IN 96 ITEMS.
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/6
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
6
LAW ON CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT OF WOMEN AND YOUNG PERSONS IN INDUSTRY ******
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) APPROVED THE TRANSFER OF THE REGULATIONS COVERING THE GENERAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT OF WOMEN AND YOUNG PERSONS IN INDUSTRY FROM THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ORDINANCE TO THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE.
THE NECESSARY AMENDING LEGISLATION TO FACILITATE THE TRANSFER, THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) BILL 1980 AND THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1980, WERE PASSED INTO LAW WITH AMENDMENTS IN THE COUNCIL. •
SPEAKING AT THE RESUMED DEBATE OF THE TWO BILLS, THE HON PETER C WONG SAID THE INTENTION OF THE BILLS WERE TO RATIONALISE THE DISTRIBUTION OF POWERS BETWEEN THE TWO PRINCIPAL ORDINANCES SO THAT THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE WOULD DEAL WITH ALL MEASURES OF A SOCIAL NATURE RELATING TO EMPLOYMENT LEAVING THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ORDINANCE TO DEAL WITH SAFETY AT WORK.
DURING THE COURSE OF EXAMINING THE PROVISIONS OF THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) BILL, MR WONG DISCOVERED THE POWERS TO BE TRANSFERRED TO THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE WERE MUCH WIDER THAN WAS INTENDED.
HE SAIDi + IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE DEALS WITH EMPLOYMENT IN BOTH THE INDUSTRIAL AND NON-INDUSTRI AL SECTORS AND THE POWERS OF ENFORCEMENT APPROPRIATE TO THE INDUSTRIAL SECTOR MAY NOT NECESSARILY BE APPROPRIATE TO THE NON-INDUSTRI AL SECTOR.
♦INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYMENT IS, BY ITS VERY NATURE, COMPLEX AND INVOLVES GREATER RISKS. HENCE, MORE EXTENSIVE POWERS OF ENFORCEMENT ARE NECESSARY.*
AFTER DISCUSSIONS WITH THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR AND THE DEPUTY LAW DRAFTSMAN, IT WAS AGREED THAT AMENDMENTS SHOULD BE MADE SO AS TO CONFINE THE APPLICATION OF THE WIDER POWERS TO THE INDUSTRIAL SECTOR ONLY, MR WONG SAID.
UNDER ANOTHER AMENDMENT THE DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION BY PUBLIC OFFICERS IS ONLY PERMITTED IN THE COURSE OF OFFICIAL DUTY.
THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) BILL FURTHER SEEKS TO BRING EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES DEALING WITH DOMESTIC SERVANTS WITHIN THE AMBIT OF THE PR INCI PAL. ORD I NANCE WHICH MR WONG DESCRIBED AS ♦BOTH NECESSARY AND DESIRABLE+.
THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1980 WHICH WAS ALSO PASSED CONTAINS A NUMBER OF CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENTS MADE NECESSARY AS A RESULT OF THE TRANSFER OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS TO THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE.
IN REPLY THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, THE HON J N HENDERSON, THANKED MR WONG FOR HIS VIGILANCE AND SUPPORT FOR THE TWO BILLS.
/MR HENDERSON .....
7
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
MR HENDERSON SAID« +WITH THE FORMER HE HAS RIGHTLY POINTED OUT THAT BY A GENERAL TRANSFER OF POWERS FROM ONE ORDINANCE TO ANOTHER, SOME POWERS WOULD HAVE BEEN WIDER IN APPLICATION THAN WAS EITHER NECESSARY OR DESIRABLE FOR THE NON-INDUSTRIAL SECTOR, AND IN THE CASE OF CLAUSE 6 (G) A CLEAR ANACHRONISM WAS REVEALED.
♦I AM SURE THAT WITH REGARD TO DISCLOSURE BY PUBLIC OFFICERS THE INTENTION WAS ALWAYS THAT THIS SHOULD ONLY'BE DURING THE COURSE OF OFFICIAL DUTY — BUT IT IS AS WELL TO PUT THIS BEYOND
DOUBT.
+l AM GLAD FOR HIS AND MEMBERS’ SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL INTENTION OF THESE LEGISLATIVE MOVES, AND SPECIFICALLY FOR THE LICENSING OF DOMESTIC EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES.*
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ARRANGEMENTS FOR GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTS
*****
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL HAS AGREED TO RAISE THE CEILING OF TOTAL BORROWINGS BY THE EXCHANGE FUND TO S1O OOO MILLION AND APPROVED A SCHEDULE OF FUNDS ON ACCOUNT.
EXPLAINING THE NEED FOR THE HIGHER CEILING. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON SIR PHILIP HADDON-CAVE SAID THE BORROWINGS ROSE SHARPLY THROUGH 1979, AND ON MARCH 10 THIS YEAR THEY AMOUNTED TO $6 993 MILLION, ALMOST TO THE PREVIOUS LIMIT OF *7 000 MILLION SET IN 1972.
THE GOVERNMENT’S ACCUMULATED FISCAL RESERVES ARE INVESTED BY THE GENERAL REVENUE ACCOUNT WITH THE EXCHANGE FUND, AGAINST THE ISSUE BY THE FUND OF INTEREST-BEARING DEBT CERTIFICATES.
AT THE END OF THE PRESENT FINANCIAL YEAR, THE EXCHANGE FUND’S BORROWINGS FROM THE GENERAL REVENUE ACCOUNT ARE LIKELY TO BE AROUND $8 400 MILLION.
♦IF MY RECENT FORECAST OF A SURPLUS ON GENERAL REVENUE ACCOUNT OF $2 904 MILLION FOR 1980-81 IS CORRECT, THE FUND’S BORROWINGS WILL BE IN EXCESS OF >10 000 MILLION BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR.
♦THIS MEANS THAT WE SHALL NEED TO RAISE THE BORROWING LIMIT YET AGAIN,+ SIR PHILIP SAID.
REFERRING TO THE FUNDS ON ACCOUNT WHICH WERE APPROVED, SIR PHILIP EXPLAINED THAT THEY WERE NEEDED TO ENABLE THE GOVERNMENT TO CARRY OUT EXISTING SERVICES BETWEEN THE START OF THE NEW FINANCIAL YEAR ON APRIL 1 AND THE ISSUE OF THE GENERAL WARRANT FOLLOWING THE ENACTMENT OF THE APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE.
THE ORDINANCE IS TO BE ENACTED ONLY AFTER APRIL 1 BECAUSE DEBATE ON THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL IS EXTENDED INTO APRIL, AS HAS BECOME NORMAL PRACTICE, TO GIVE MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL TIME TO EXAMINE THE DRAFT ESTIMATES FOR 1980-81.
SIR PHILIP WAS ALSO GIVEN AUTHORITY BY THE COUNCIL TO USE CERTAIN RECEIPTS TO OFFSET EXPENDITURE INSTEAD OF CREDITING THEM TO GENERAL REVENUE DURING THE PERIOD COVERED BY THE VOTE ON ACCOUNT.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
8 -
MEASURES TO KEEP SUBWAYS SAFE FOR USERS ft ft ft ft
FREQUENT POLICE PATROLS AND ADEQUATE LIGHTING WILL BE PROVIDED TO HELP KEEP PEDESTRIAN SUBWAYS SAFE FOR USERS, THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WAS TOLD TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM DR THE HON HO KAM-FAI, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON LEWIS DAVIES SAIDi +NEW SUBWAYS ARE BEING LIT TO IMPROVE LIGHTING STANDARDS INTRODUCED BY THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT SINCE 1979.
♦A SURVEY IS ABOUT TO BE UNDERTAKEN OF THE OLDER SUBWAYS, WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE POLICE, TO ESTABLISH WHERE IMPROVED LIGHTING IS NEEDED AND THE PRIORITIES FOR ITS INTRODUCTION,* HE SAID.
♦FURTHER POLICE MEASURES INCLUDE CRIME PREVENTION PUBLICITY AIMED AT DISCOURAGING PEOPLE FROM CARRYING LARGE SUMS OF MONEY ON THEIR PERSON AND ALSO ADVISING WOMEN AND YOUNG PERSONS NOT TO WALK ALONE AT NIGHT,♦ HE ADDED.
MR DAVIES POINTED OUT THAT A STUDY OF ALL CRIMES REPORTED TO THE POLICE SO FAR THIS YEAR HAD REVEALED ONLY TWO THAT WERE COMMITTED IN PEDESTRIAN SUBWAYSt ONE CASE OF ROBBERY AND ONE OF SNATCHING.
♦POLICE INVESTIGATIONS INTO A THIRD CASE INVOLVING HOMICIDE ARE NOT YET COMPLETE AND I DO NOT PROPOSE TO COMMENT ON THAT CASE FURTHER,+ HE SAID.
------0-------
MORE NEW AMBULANCES ON WAY ft ft ft
ORDERS HAVE BEEN PLACED FOR 47 NEW AMBULANCES AND PROVISION HAS BEEN INCLUDED IN THE 1980-81 DRAFT ESTIMATES FOR A FURTHER 51 UNDER THE GOVERNMENT’S PROGRAMME TO REPLACE AND EXPAND ITS AMBULANCE FLEET.
THIS WAS REVEALED BY THE SECRETARY FOR SOCIAL SERVICES, THE HON E P HO IN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON PETER C WONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR HO ADDED THAT PROVISION WAS ALSO INCLUDED IN THE 1980-81 DRAFT ESTIMATES TO AIR-CONDITION TWO AMBULANCES FOR TRIAL PURPOSES.
MR HO EXPLAINED THAT THE QUESTION OF AIR-CONDITIONING FOR THE GOVERNMENT'S AMBULANCES HAD BEEN LOOKED INTO VERY CAREFULLY AND IT WAS GENERALLY AGREED THAT AIR-CONDITIONING WAS DESIRABLE THOUGH, PERHAPS, NOT ESSENTIAL IN HONG KONG’S CIRCUMSTANCES OF RELATIVELY SHORT DISTANCES.
♦FURTHERMORE, THERE COULD BE TECHNICAL COMPLICATIONS OVER THE OPERATION OF AIR-CONDITIONED AMBULANCES, PARTICULARLY HAVING REGARD TO OUR HILLY TERRA IN,♦ MR HO SAID.
MR HO ALSO POINTED OUT THAT OF THE 135 AMBULANCES AT PRESENT IN SERVICE 72 WERE PURCHASED DURING THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS AS PART OF THE EXPANSION PROGRAMME.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
9
EDUCATION GREEN PAPER TO BE SUBMITTED TO GOVERNOR-IN-COUNCIL SOON ft * ft * ft *
THE GREEN PAPER ON PRE-PRIMARY AND PRIMARY EDUCATION IS EXPECTED TO BE SUBMITTED TO THE GOVERNOR-IN-COUNCIL WITHIN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS FOR AUTHORITY TO PUBLISH IT.
THIS WAS DISCLOSED BY THE SECRETARY FOR SOCIAL SERVICES, THE HON E P HO IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) IN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE REV THE HON JOYCE BENNETT.
MR HO SAID A COMPLETED DRAFT OF THE GREEN PAPER WAS READY BY THE END OF 1979 BUT IT COULD NOT MEET THE INITIAL PUBLICATION DATE.
♦THE REASON FOR THIS DELAY IS THAT AS THE GREEN PAPER HAS TO COVER A RANGE OF ISSUES IT INVOLVES A NUMBER OF INTER-LOCKING CONSIDERATIONS, AND THE DRAFTING AND REVISING PROCESSES HAVE TAKEN A LITTLE LONGER THAN ORIGINALLY ANTICIPATED,+ HE EXPLAINED.
O
NO SHORTAGE IN SUPPLY OF DRUGS IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS AND CLINICS ft ft ft ft
THE SUPPLY OF DRUGS IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS AND CLINICS IS BEING MONITORED AT THREE DIFFERENT LEVELS TO ENSURE THAT THERE IS NO SHORTAGE AT ANY TIME.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, THE HON DR K L THONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THIS (WEDNESDAY) AFTERNOON IN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON WONG LAM.
DR THONG POINTED OUT THAT SPECIAL PROFESSIONAL MONITORING COMMITTEES CONSISTING OF MEDICAL SUPERINTENDENTS, SENIOR PHARMACISTS AND HEADS OF THE CLINICAL UNITS CONCERNED HAVE ALREADY BEEN SET UP IN REGIONAL HOSPITALS TO KEEP CHECK ON THE SUPPLY OF DRUGS.
EXPERIENCES HAD SHOWN THAT THESE COMMITTEES WERE QUITE EFFECTIVE IN SO FAR AS SUPPLY OF DRUGS WITHIN THE HOSPITAL WAS CONCERNED, HE SAID.
HOWEVER, DR THONG SAID THE SUPPLY OF DRUGS IN INDIVIDUAL CLINICS SOMETIMES FELL SHORT FOR LIMITED PERIODS.
THIS WAS BECAUSE OF LOCAL PROBLEMS OF STOCK-KEEPING AND UNEXPECTED DEMANDS FOR SPECIAL DRUGS, WHICH +ARE DIFFICULT TO ANTICIPATE,♦ HE SAID.
IN VIEW OF THESE, DR THONG SAID SIMILAR MONITORING TEAMS WERE BEING SET UP IN THREE MAJOR REGIONS TO KEEP CHECK ON THE DEMAND AND SUPPLY OF DRUGS IN DISTRICT HOSPITALS AND CLINICS.
IN ADDITION TO THIS MONITORING MECHANISM IN THE FIELD, A CENTRAL DRUGS COMMITTEE HAD ALSO BEEN ESTABLISHED IN MEDICAL HEADQUARTERS TO CO-ORDINATE AND REVIEW THE SITUATION REGULARLY, HE SAID.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
10
MONITORING OF HEUNG YEE KUK ELECTIONS * ft * * ft *
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, THE HON DAVID AKERS-JONES, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THE FORTHCOMING HEUNG YEE KUK ELECTIONS WOULD BE SUPERVISED, OR MONITORED, WITH GREAT CARE BY HIM PERSONALLY AS RETURNING OFFICER.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON CHARLES YEUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR AKERS-JONES SAID HE WOULD BE ASSISTED IN THIS WORK BY SENIOR STAFF OF THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION.
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SNT LAYS FOUNDATION STONE FOR NEW SCHOOL IN SHA TIN ft ft ft ft
THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS HAS A FINE RECORD OF DEVELOPING EDUCATIONAL SERVICES IN HONG KONG, SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR AKERS-JONES WAS SPEAKING AT THE FOUNDATION STONE LAYING CEREMONY FOR THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS’ YOW KAM YUEN PRE-VOCATIONAL SCHOOL IN SHA TIN NEW TOWN.
HE SAID THE GROUP ALREADY OPERATED 13 PRIMARY SCHOOLS, SEVEN SECONDARY SCHOOLS AND THREE NIGHT SCHOOLS, AND HE WAS MOST GRATEFUL TO MR YOW MOK-SHING, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS, AND THE BOARD MEMBERS FOR THEIR ♦INITIATIVE, FORESIGHT AND GENEROUS FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS IN ESTABLISHING THIS NEW PRE-VOCATIONAL SCHOOL.+
MR AKERS-JONES SAID PEOPLE STILL THOUGHT OF SHA TIN AS A DORMITORY TOWN BUT THIS WAS FAR FROM THE TRUTH.
THERE WAS ALREADY A DEVELOPED INDUSTRIAL AREA WITH 209 000 SQUARE METRES (2.25 MILLION SQUARE FEET) OF FACTORY FLOOR SPACE AND A FURTHER SIX HECTARES (15 ACRES) OF INDUSTRIAL LAND CURRENTLY UNDER DEVELOPMENT- OVER THE NEXT YEAR A FURTHER 3.2 HECTARES (EIGHT ACRES) OF LAND WOULD BE DISPOSED OF FOR INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
♦THERE IS ALREADY A DEMAND FOR EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE HAD SOME TECHNICAL INSTRUCTION AS PART OF THEIR EDUCATION AND THIS DEMAND WILL GROW AS THE TOWN DEVELOPS,♦ HE SAID.
♦THIS SCHOOL, WHICH WILL OPEN IN 1982, WILL SPECIALISE IN PRINTING AND LIGHT ENGINEERING, AND IT WILL THUS PLAY A LEADING ROLE IN PREPARING THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF SHA TIN FOR LIFE WHEN THEY LEAVE SCHOOL.♦
MR YOW SAID THE GROUP HAD BEEN PROVIDING FREE EDUCATION TO THE COMMUNITY OF HONG KONG SINCE 1880.
AT PRESENT, A TOTAL OF 15 600 STUDENTS WERE ATTENDING SCHOOLS RUN BY THE GROUP, INCLUDING ADULT STUDENTS.
♦THIS NEW SCHOOL IS GOING TO BE THE FIRST OF ITS KIND OPERATED BY TUNG WAH,+ HE SAID. MR YOW HAS DONATED $1 MILLION TOWARDS THE CONTRIBUTION COSTS OF THE SCHOOL WHICH IS NAMED AFTER HIS LATE GRANDFATHER.
------0------- /n ....................
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
11 -
LIVESTOCK POPULATION DOUBLES IN FOUR YEARS * ft ft * *
THE PIG AND POULTRY POPULATION IN HONG KONG HAS ALMOST DOUBLED DURING THE PAST FOUR YEARS, THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR JOHN RIDDELL-SWAN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE SAID THAT ACCORDING TO THE LATEST LIVESTOCK CENSUS UNDERTAKEN BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT BETWEEN 1975 AND 1979, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PIGS INCREASED FROM 386 000 TO 569 000 AND POULTRY FROM 3.7 MILLION TO 6.7 MILLION.
MR RIDDELL-SWAN MADE THESE REMARKS AT THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER OF THE MAIZE AND FEED IMPORTERS’ ASSOCIATION.
HE DESCRIBED THE POPULATION GROWTH AS +A CONSIDERABLE INCREASE* AND ADDED THAT THERE HAD BEEN A CORRESPONDING INCREASE IN THE IMPORTATION OF LIVESTOCK FEED CONSTITUENTS.
MAIZE IMPORTS ROSE FROM 160 000 TONNES TO 270 000 TONNES AND WHEAT BRAN FROM 50 000 TO 90 000 TONNES DURING THE SAME PERIOD.
+IT IS A MEASURE OF THE STRENGTH OF THE MAIZE AND FEED IMPORTERS* ASSOCIATION THAT MORE THAN 80 PER CENT OF THE FEEDSTUFFS USED IN HONG KONG IS IMPORTED BY MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. AND IT IS IN NO SMALL MEASURE DUE TO YOUR EFFORTS IN SEEKING BETTER AND CHEAPER SOURCES OF GRAINS THAT THE LIVESTOCK FARMERS HAVE AT PRESENT A STEADY SUPPLY OF HIGH QUALITY LIVESTOCK FEED AT REASONABLE PRICES,* SAID MR RIDDELL-SWAN.
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SPECIAL TRAINS TO SHA TIN RACE COURSE ft ft ft ft ft
THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY ANNOUNCED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT ONE OF ITS THREE RACE COURSE SPECIAL TRAINS WILL STOP TO PICK UP PASSENGERS AT MONG KOK STATION THIS SATURDAY (MARCH 15).
THE THREE TRAINS WILL LEAVE KOWLOON STATION AT 12.05 PM, 12.23 PM AND 12.50 PM. THE SECOND TRAIN WILL ARRIVE AND PICK UP PASSENGERS AT MONG KOK AT 12.38 PM.
THE SINGLE JOURNEY FARE FROM MONG KOK TO RACE COURSE IS $2.
ON THE RETURN JOURNEY, THREE SPECIAL TRAINS WILL DEPART RACE COURSE STATION AT 6.20 PM, 6.42 PM AND 7.17 PM. ALL THESE DOWN ■TRAINS WILL STOP AT MONG KOK STATION.
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/12
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 1980
- 12 -
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SHA TIN AND WANG TAU HOM *****
THE UNDERPASS OF THE NEW GRADE-SEPARATED INTERCHANGE AT LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD NEAR HUNG MUI KUK IN SHA TIN WILL OPEN TO TWO-WAY TRAFFIC FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (MARCH 14) TO PROVIDE DIRECT ACCESS FROM LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD TO WORLDWIDE GARDENS.
IN KOWLOON FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (MARCH 15), THE SECTION OF WANG TAU HOM EAST ROAD BETWEEN FU MEI STREET AND JUNCTION ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED FROM TWO-WAY TO ONE-WAY WESTBOUND TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW LOK FU HOUSING ESTATE.
THE ARRANGEMENT WILL LAST FOR ABOUT ONE YEAR DURING WHICH KMB ROUTES 7B AND 103 WILL BE DIVERTED VIA HENG LAM STREET AND FU ME I STREET EAST TO WANG TAU HOM EAST ROAD.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
- - o - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL 5-233191
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
SURVEY ON ECONOMIC PROSPECTS FOR 1980 ............... 1
T.S. LO APPOINTED MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE COUNCIL ....... 2
MECHANISM TO REVIEW SOCIAL SERVICES ................. 3
MHD PLINS TO SET UP SIX MORE CHILD ASSESSMENT CENTRES .............................................
EIGHTEEN SITES AVAILABLE IN NT ..................... 5
ANCIENT BOWL DONATED TO GOVERNMENT .................. 6
ROMER RETIRING AFTER 31 YEARS SERVICE ............... 7
SPEECH DAY OF TECHNICAL TEACHERS' COLLEGE ........... 7
SOCIAL SUBJECTS TEACHING CENTRE OPENS ............... 8
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 1980
1
SURVEY ON ECONOMIC PROSPECTS FOR 1980 * * ft * ft
ORDERS IN MANUFACTURING ARE EXPECTED TO INCREASE BY FIVE PER CENT IN QUANTITY TERMS FOR 1980, ACCORDING TO A SAMPLE ECONOMIC SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT IN JANUARY THIS YEAR.
THE OUTLOOK REPRESENTS THE VIEWS OF MANAGEMENTS IN 557 SELECTED ESTABLISHMENTS EACH ENGAGING 100 OR MORE PERSONS IN TEN MAJOR MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES.
A SPOKESMAN OF THE DEPARTMENT SAID SIMILAR SURVEYS WERE CONDUCTED IN THE PRECEDING YEARS SO AS TO GATHER MANUFACTURERS’ OPINIONS ON BUSINESS OUTLOOK FOR THE YEAR AHEAD.
THE SUBJECTS COVERED WERE EXPECTED VOLUME OF ORDERS, EMPLOYMENT, WAGES, MATERIAL AND OUTPUT PRICES, CAPACITY UTILISATION, AND CAPITAL INVESTMENT.
THE SPOKESMAN SAIDi +SINCE THE RESPONSES OBTAINED FROM OPINION QUESTIONS OF THIS NATURE DEPEND VERY MUCH ON MANUFACTURERS* ABILITY TO PREDICT FUTURE PROSPECTS, AND ON THE DIVERGENT BACKGROUND UPON WHICH THEY MAKE SUCH PREDICTIONS, THE SURVEY FINDINGS SHOULD THEREFORE BE INTERPRETED NOT IN ISOLATION, BUT AGAINST THE DYNAMIC NATURE OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY.♦
HE SAID WHEREAS THE SURVEY CONSTITUTED ONE OF THE MANY USEFUL SOURCES OF INFORMATION FROM WHICH THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY DERIVED HIS LATEST ASSESSMENT OF THE ECONOMIC SITUATION, IT WAS ALSO KNOWN TO BE ONE OF THE MORE CONSERVATIVE IN ITS PREDICTIONS.
PAST EXPERIENCE INDICATED THAT THE SURVEY RESULTS WERE OFTEN ON THE LOW SIDE WHEN MATCHED WITH THE ACTUAL PERFORMANCE CONCLUDED BY THE CLOSE OF THE YEAR, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
THE MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED EXPECTED THAT THEIR VOLUME OF ORDERS FROM THE UNITED STATES, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY AND THE UNITED KINGDOM WOULD INCREASE BY SIX PER CENT, FIVE PER CENT AND THREE PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. THE GROWTH IN ORDERS FROM ALL OTHER OVERSEAS MARKETS COULD BE AROUND SIX PER CENT AND FROM THE LOCAL MARKET, AROUND FIVE PER CENT.
MANUFACTURERS OF ELECTRONICS, AND WATCHES AND CLOCKS GENERALLY MAINTAINED A MORE OPTIMISTIC OUTLOOK THAN THOSE OF TEXTILES AND CLOTHING. THE EXPECTED GROWTH IN ORDERS WAS 10 PER CENT TO 11 PER CENT FOR ELECTRONICS AND WATCHES BUT ONLY THREE PER CENT FOR TEXTILES AND CLOTHING. THE SURVEY ALSO REVEALED A PROBABLE INCREASE OF FIVE PER CENT TO SEVEN PER CENT IN THE VOLUME OF ORDERS FOR FOOD, PRINTING, PLASTICS, METAL PRODUCTS AND ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES INDUSTRIES.
EMPLOYMENT IN THE FACTORIES SURVEYED COULD INCREASE BY FIVE PER CENT OVER THE LEVEL OF 1979. WAGES COULD, HOWEVER, BE 12 PER CENT HIGHER. THE SAME RATE OF INCREASE AS WAGES WAS EXPECTED FOR THE PRICES OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURED INPUTS, BUT LESS SO, AT NINE PER CENT, FOR THE PRICES OF FINISHED PRODUCTS FOR EXPORT.
/Machinery capacity .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 1J, 1980
2
MACHINERY CAPACITY AND FACTORY FLOOR SPACE WERE BOTH EXPECTED BY THE MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED TO EXPAND BY FIVE PER CENT DURING 1980, IN ANTICIPATION OF A LIKELY INCREASE IN PRODUCTION. PRODUCTION CAPACITY WAS EXPECTED TO BE 90 PER CENT UTILISED THIS YEAR, THAT IS ABOUT TWO PER CENT HIGHER THAN THE UTILISATION ACHIEVED IN 1979.
BESIDES THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR, THE SURVEY ALSO ENUMERATED 52 LARGEST CONTRACTORS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY. THEY EXPECTED LABOUR WAGES ON AVERAGE WOULD BE 12 PER CENT HIGHER THAN THE LEVEL OF 1979 AND BUILDING MATERIAL PRICES, 16 PER CENT HIGHER. MANY OF THEM EXPECTED MORE BUSINESS IN 1980, WHICH COULD LEAD TO A SIX PER CENT INCREASE IN EMPLOYMENT AND EIGHT PER CENT INCREASE IN MACHINERY CAPACITY FOR THE INDUSTRY.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES ON THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY BE MADE TO THE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TELt 5-274203). THE SURVEY REPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE SOON AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE, AT $2 EACH.
0
T. S. LO APPOINTED MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE COUNCIL *****
ON INSTRUCTIONS FROM HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN, THE GOVERNOR appointed T-SL0 T0 SERVE AS AN ^OFFICIAL MEMBER ON THE SIcED TODAy'WXaY)!" FR0H ‘PR'L b ‘ a0VE’NMENT SPOKESMAN
MR LO, WHO HAS BEEN A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL » sirJyLJ-k1h7on EIrchT the ,acancv left By THE RETIREMENT vr Oln TA AAN UN MAK UH JI,
MR LO, A PARTNER IN MESSRS LO AND LO SOLICITORS, HAS A LENGTHY RECORD OF PUBLIC SERVICE.
-----0------
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 1980
5
MECHANISM TO REVIEW SOCIAL SERVICES
******
DCU A REABYANP. EFFECTIVE MECHANISM ALREADY EXISTS WHICH REGULARLY ££*’?WS ™E DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES IN HONG KONG, ELDERLY, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
r.n T55FERR’^ T0 A RECENT statement by a student group ON SERVICES THE ELDERLY, THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT AN ON-GOING FIVE-F?R S°C,AL WELFARE development was reviewed each year by ™PE!?^TAT,VES 0F THE DEPARTMENT and the voluntary welfare sector TO MONITOR PROGRESS AND ADJUST PRIORITIES AGAINST CHANGING NEEDS.
HE SAID THE FIVE-YEAR PLAN SET OUT SPECIFIC PROGRAMMES OF DEVSLOPMENT IN EACH MAJOR AREA OF SOCIAL WELFARE FOLLOWING THE PRINCIPLES LAID DOWN IN THE WHITE PAPER +SOCIAL WELFARE INTO THE 1980’S+.
IN ADDITION, HE SAID, A 10-YEAR PROGRAMME PLAN SPEC IF IC(ALLY ON SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY WAS PREPARED IN 1977 FOLLOWING A SYSTEMATIC STUDY BY THE GOVERNMENT OF THE PROBLEMS AND NEEDS OF OLD PEOPLE. THIS PROGRAMME PLAN FORMED THE BASIS FOR THE PROPOSALS IN THE 1977 GREEN PAPER AND THEN IN THE 1979 WHITE PAPER.
SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY WILL AGAIN BE LOOKED AT CLOSELY LATER THIS YEAR WHEN A REVIEW IS MADE OF THE PROGRAMME PLAN, HE
THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT THE NEED FOR MORE INSTITUTIONS FOR THE ELDERLY HAD NOT BEEN NEGLECTED AND THE GOVERNMENT WAS CONTINUING TO PLAN ADDITIONAL INSTITUTIONAL FACILITIES WITHIN APPROVED GUIDELINES.
HE SAID EFFORTS WERE MADE TO SEE THAT PROJECTS IN THE PIPELINE MATERIALISED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, BUT SOME FACTORS WERE BEYOND CONTROL.
FOR EXAMPLE, IN SOME CASES, HE EXPLAINED, SITES ORIGINALLY EARMARKED HAVE PROVED UNSUITABLE OR GEOTECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES HAVE BEEN ENCOUNTERED, WHILST IN OTHER CASES, THE LAND GRANTS HAVE TAKEN LONGER TO FINALISE THAN ORIGINALLY EXPECTED.
THESE UNFORTUNATELY HAVE CAUSED CHANGES IN THE ORIGINAL COMPLETION DATES FOR SOME PROJECTS, HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID INTER-DEPARTMENTAL DISCUSSIONS WERE TAKING PLACE IN AN ATTEMPT TO EXPEDITE LAND GRANTS AND EARMARK SUITABLE SITES.
IF THINGS WENT SMOOTHLY AS PLANNED, HE SAID, THERE WOULD BE AN EXTRA 3 620 INSTITUTIONAL PLACES FOR THE ELDERLY BY 1982-83.
THESE WILL BE ADDITIONAL TO THE PLANNED EXPANSION IN HEALTH SERVICES AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES FOR OLD PEOPLE, WHICH MIGHT HAVE AN EFFECT OF EASING THE DEMAND FOR INSTITUTIONAL CARE, HE SAID.
/AS R93ARDS .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 1J, 1980
4
AS REGARDS THE CHINA COAST COMMUNITY RESIDENCE (CCCR), AN INSTITUTIONAL HOME FOR ELDERLY ENGLISH-SPEAKING PEOPLE, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THERE WERE BASIC DIFFERENCES AS TO THE WAY IN WHICH THE CCCR AND OTHER OLD PEOPLE’S INSTITUTION PROJECTS WERE HELPED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
HE SAID GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE FOR OLD PEOPLE’S INSTITUTION PROJECTS WAS NORMALLY GIVEN BY WAY OF LAND GRANTS, FREE GRANTS TOWARDS THE CAPITAL COST AND ANNUAL RECURRENT SUBSIDIES TO MEET OPERATIONAL EXPENDITURES.
IN THE CASE OF THE CCCR, HE SAID, THE PROJECT RECEIVED GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE ONLY IN THE FORM OF A INTEREST-FREE LOAN WHICH IS REPAYABLE, WHILST THE LAND AND PREMISES WERE PROVIDED BY THE PROJECT ORGANISOR, HE SAID.
THE CCCR IS OPERATING ON A SELF-SUPPORTING BASIS, AND MEETS THE RECURRENT EXPENDITURES ON ITS OWN BY CHARGING ECONOMIC FEES, HE ADDED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE CCCR ITSELF WAS A WORTHWHILE PROJECT CATERING FOR THE NEEDS OF ENGLISH-SPEAKING PEOPLE WHO WERE LONGTIME HONG KONG RESIDENTS AND WHO HAD IN ONE WAY OR ANOTHER CONTRIBUTED TO THE COMMUNITY DURING THE PRIME TIME OF THEIR LIFE.
HE SAID WHILST THE CURRENT GOVERNMENT PROGRAMMES OF SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY AIMED AT MEETING THE NEEDS OF ELDERLY PEOPLE IN THE +VULNERABLE GROUP*, THERE WAS NO REASON WHY THE PRIVATE SECTOR SHOULD NOT BE ENCOURAGED TO OPERATE INSTITUTIONAL HOMES, SIMILAR TO THE CCCR, FOR ELDERLY MIDDLE-CLASS PEOPLE WHO HAD A NEED FOR THEM.
0 -------
MHD PLANS TO SET UP SIX MORE CHILD ASSESSMENT CENTRES
******
THE MEDICAL CHILD ASSESSMENT
AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT PLANS TO SET UP SIX MORE eno <no™ CENTRES IN HONG KONG TO MEET THE GROWING DEMAND
FOR CHILD ASSESSMENT SERVICE BY THE LOCAL COMMUNITY.
_ STATED BY A CONSULTANT PAEDIATRICIAN, DR LILLIAN
KO, IN CHARGE OF THE ARRAN STREET CHILD ASSESSMENT CLINIC WHEN SHE ADDRESSED THE KOWLOON ROTARY CLUB MEETING THIS (THURSDAY) AFTERNOON.
DR KO SAID THE SIX NEW CENTRES WILL BE SET UP IN HIGH STREET
SungEandRkwIn hosp,tal’ TUEN mun hospital, ToSiTkwIi’
SHE POINTED OUT THAT ABOUT THREE PER CENT OF CHILDREN MAY GROW UP WITH SOME SORT OF MENTAL AND PHYSICAL DISABILITY. dcuaJ?.Ri5?t?I?E£SED THAT A RESPONSIBLE COMMUNITY SHOULD PROVIDE REHABILITATION TO THE DISABLED BECAUSE IT IS +THE BASIC HUMAN RIGHT OF EVERY INDIVIDUAL TO MAKE HIS LIFE AS USEFUL AND SATISFYING AS POSSIBLE*.
/+A BASIC STEF
THURSDAY, MARCH 1J, 1980
5
+A BASIC STEP IN THE REHABILITATION PROCESS IS TO IDENTIFY AND ASSESS CHILDREN WITH HANDICAPS AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE, SO THAT REMEDIAL ACTION CAN BE TAKEN IN ORDER TO INCREASE THE CHANCES OF RESTORING FULL FUNCTION AND HELP THESE CHILDREN TO DEVELOP TO THEIR FULL POTENTIAL,* SHE SAID.
THE FIRST LOCAL CLINIC TO PROVIDE A COMPREHENSIVE CHILD ASSESSMENT SERVICE FOR CHILDREN FROM BIRTH TO 12 YEARS OLD WITH PHYSICAL, MENTAL OR EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS WAS ESTABLISHED IN ARRAN STREET IN 1977 BY THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT, WITH DONATIONS FROM THE ROTARY CLUB OF KOWLOON.
SINCE THE CENTRE CAME INTO OPERATION, ABOUT 1 OOO PROBLEMATIC CHILDREN HAD BEEN ASSESSED, SAID DR KO.
THIS CLINIC IS UNIQUE IN THAT SPECIALISTS FROM VARIOUS ASSESSMENT FIELDS, INCLUDING PAEDIATRICIAN TRAINED IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND ASSESSMENT, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST, MEDICAL SOCIAL WORKER, PHYSIOTHERAPIST, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST, SPEECH THERAPIST AND AUDIOLOGY TECHNICIAN, COME UNDER ONE ROOF.
♦ANOTHER IMPORTANT EMPHASIS IS A TEAM APPROACH TO EACH INDIVIDUAL CHILD WHOSE PROBLEMS ARE USUALLY MULTIPLE,* SHE SAID.
+S0 THE STAFF TOGETHER PROVIDE A DETAILED ALL ROUND ASSESSMENT OF THE NATURE AND DEGREE OF THE HANDICAP AND INNER POTENTIAL OF THE DISABLED CHILD, AND RECOMMEND SUBSEQUENT MANAGEMENT AND EDUCATIONAL PLACEMENT, AS WELL AS PROVIDE SUPPORT AND COUNSELLING TO THE PARENTS OF THESE CHILDREN,* SHE ADDED.
DR KO SAID STAFF OF THE CENTRE ALSO TOOK PART TO PROVIDE PRACTICAL TRAINING PROGRAMMES FOR LOCAL PAEDIATRICIANS, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY STUDENTS, SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS, MEDICAL SOCIAL WORKERS AND HEALTH NURSES.
FURTHERMORE, THEY WERE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN MANY OTHER FUNCTIONS SUCH AS SEMINARS AND EXHIBITIONS TO PROMOTE CHILD CARE IN OUR SOCIETY, SHE SAID.
------o-------
EIGHTEEN SITES AVAILABLE IN NT ******
_ THE GOVERNMENT IS TO MAKE AVAILABLE UTERTTh!sSMONTHRESIDENT’AL' C0MMERCIAL AND
1 into Huiiin.
SITES IN THE NEW INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
l»TKETHSES'^JsT^UN?,riuETNHASu^i;NDHE?JE‘SELSo;s".‘RE‘' ‘RE (THURSDAY? ISTRAT,0N SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY
^THlU5n^c^gE18ES!WhIs:ESTRICTED Tt> holers
DEVELOPMENT. PL°T RATI° °F °NLY 0,4 AND ARE F0R ^OSTOREY
THURSDAY, MARCH 1J, 1980
6
TWO OF THE LARGER KAU TO SITES MEASURE 14 600 AND 15 700 SQUARE METRES. THEY ARE SUITABLE FOR TOWN HOUSE DEVELOPMENT WITH SWIMMING POOLS AND TENNIS COURTS.
TWO OTHER SITES AT FO TAN, SHA TIN, ARE FOR MULTI-STOREY INDUSTRIAL/GODOWN DEVELOPMENT. THEY MEASURE 4 727 AND 5 407 SQUARE METRES.
THE REMAINING SEVEN SITES, MEASURING HALF A HECTARE, ARE FOR COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT. THE GROUND, FIRST AND SECOND FLOORS OF BUILDINGS TO BE PUT OUT ON THE SITES ARE FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES, WHILE THE UPPER FLOORS ARE FOR RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES.
TWO OF THE SITES IN TUEN MUN NEW TOWN, ADJACENT TO THE TOWN CENTRE, WHILE THE OTHER FIVE SITES ARE LOCATED IN THE DEVELOPED CENTRAL AREA OF YUEN LONG.
APPLICATIONS, TOGETHER WITH A CHEQUE FOR 150 000, SHOULD BE PLACED IN THE APPLICATION BOX IN THE RECEPTION LOBBY OF NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION HEADQUARTERS BEFORE 12 NOON ON MARCH 21.
TENDER FORMS AND NOTICES ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE HEADQUARTERS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION OR ANY OF THE EIGHT DISTRICT OFFICES.
- - 0 --------
ANCIENT BOWL DONATED TO GOVERNMENT XX* *
A KWAI CHUNG RESIDENT HAS RECENTLY PRESENTED TO THE GOVERNMENT AN ANCIENT GLAZED EARTHWARE CHINESE BOWL.
THE BOWL, ALTHOUGH SLIGHTLY CHIPPED, IS A FINE EXAMPLE OF THE CHINESE EARLY HISTORICAL POTTERY WITH GLAZE WELL PRESERVED.
DR SOLOMON BARD, EXECUTIVE SECRETARY OF THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS SECTION OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THE BOWL HAS ---- -------
BEEN TENTATIVELY DATED AT THE FOURTH
TO SEVENTH CENTURY AD
MR KOO LOONG-CHUEN, WHO BOWL, HALF BURIED, ON LANTAU
IS A KEEN HIKER, DISCOVERED THE ISLAND SEVERAL MONTHS AGO.
RECENTLY, HE VISITED AN CALLED +RESCUING THE PAST+-
EXHIBITION ON SALVAGE ARCHAEOLOGY, ------ -------- .„wl., AT THE HONG KONG MUSEUM OF HISTORY WHERE SEVERAL OBJECTS DISCOVERED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND DONATED TO THE GOVERNMENT WERE ON DISPLAY.
,MPRESSED THAT HE DECIDED TO PRESENT HIS FIND TO
int GOVERNMENT.
-----0----------
/7......
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 1980
7
ROMER RETIRING AFTER 31 YEARS SERVICE ft ft ft ft
MR JOHN ROMER, SENIOR PEST CONTROL OFFICER OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, IS RETIRING FROM THE GOVERNMENT NEXT MONTH AFTER 31 YEARS* SERVICE IN THE DEPARTMENT.
MR ROMER WAS ALSO THE HONORARY CURATOR OF MAMMALS OF THE URBAN COUNCIL’S HONG KONG ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS FROM 1957 UNTIL SEPTEMBER 1979.
MR ROMER HAS MADE VALUABLE CONTRIBUTION TO HONG KONG HYGIENE SERVICES. IN ADDITION, HE IS INTERESTED-IN THE CONSERVATION OF WILD LIFE. HE IS THE AUTHOR OF NUMEROUS SCIENTIFIC NOTES AND PAPERS ON MAMMALS, REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS. HE HAS SERVED AS A MEMBER OF SEVERAL HONG KONG WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ADVISORY BODIES AND IN 1949 CO-FOUNDED THE HONG KONG NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY. HE ALSO CARRIES OUT RESEARCH FOR HKU’S DEPARTMENT OF ZOOLOGY.
HE WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DESIGN AND LAYOUT OF THE EXISTING MAMMAL ENCLOSURES IN THE HONG KONG ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS, WHICH IN 1974 REPLACED THE PREVIOUS LIMITED ACCOMMODATION.
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SPEECH DAY OF TECHNICAL TEACHERS’ COLLEGE ft ft ft ft ft
THE TECHNICAL TEACHERS’ COLLEGE OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WILL BE HOLDING ITS 5TH SPEECH DAY TOMORROW (FRIDAY) IN THE CITY HALL.
THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR KENNETH TOPLEY WILL OFFICIATE AT THE CEREMONY AND THE DIRECTOR OF THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC, DR KEITH LEGG WILL ADDRESS THE GATHERING.
MRS LEGG WILL PRESENT CERTIFICATES AND PRIZES TO THE STUDENTS.
THE PRINCIPAL OF THE TECHNICAL TEACHERS’ COLLEGE, MR PETER SMITH, WILL ALSO SPEAK AT THE CEREMONY.
NOTE TO ED I TORSi
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE SPEECH DAY OF THE TECHNICAL TEACHERS’ COLLEGE WHICH WILL BE HELD AT 4 PM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) IN THE CITY HALL THEATRE.
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 1980
8
SOCIAL SUBJECTS TEACHING CENTRE OPENS
*****
SOCIAL SUBJECTS TEACHERS OF SECONDARY AND PRIMARY SCHOOLS ARE INVITED TO VISIT THE SOCIAL SUBJECTS TEACHING CENTRE OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
THE CENTRE, AT 4 PAK FUK ROAD, NORTH POINT, WILL BE OPEN ON MARCH 18 AND 28, AND APRIL 14 AND 25 FROM 9.30 AM TO 12.30 PM AND 2.30 PM TO 4.30 PM.
ON THESE FOUR DAYS, SUBJECTS INSPECTORS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE CENTRE FOR CONSULTATION AND ENQUIRIES.
THE CENTRE WAS OPEN TWICE LAST MONTH ON FEBRUARY 27 AND 29. ON BOTH OCCASIONS TEACHERS VISITING THE CENTRE SHOWED GREAT INTEREST IN THE RESOURCE MATERIALS ON DISPLAY.
- - o -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
SURVEY ON EMPLOYMENT AT CONSTRUCTION SITES ............... 1
FACILITIES TO DRA’/ WATER FROM HIGH ISLAND RESERVOIR................................................. 2
GASHOLDERS EXAMINATION (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS ........... 2
TSUEN WAN PARK PROJECT DROPPED ........................... 3
DSW TO OPEN SOCIAL SERVICE CENTRE ON TSING YI .............3
NW IRRIGATION SYSTEM FOR FARMERS ......................... 4
NEEDY MATRICULATION STUDENTS CAN APPLY FOR GRANT .................................................... 4
SHA TIN CHILDREN’S CHOIR TO MAKE DEBUT ................... 5
MONG KOK MUSIC FORTNIGHT ................................. 6
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN MA TAU KOK........................ 7
FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 1980
1
SURVEY ON EMPLOYMENT AT CONSTRUCTION SITES * * * *
THE NUMBER OF MANUAL WORKERS ENGAGED AT BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SITES ROSE TO 81 879 IN DECEMBER 1979, ACCORDING TO A RECENT EMPLOYMENT SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THIS REPRESENTS AN INCREASE OF 1 797 WORKERS OR 2.2 PER CENT COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1979. EMPLOYMENT ROSE BY 8 163 WORKERS OR 11.1 PER CENT OVER DECEMBER 1978.
OF THE 1 197 BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SITES IN OPERATION IN DECEMBER 1979, 310 WERE SITES CONTRACTED BY THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT AND THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT. THESE 310 SITES ACCOUNTED FOR 34 622 WORKERS REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 1 337 WORKERS OR FOUR PER CENT OVER SEPTEMBER 1979.
A TOTAL OF 5 380 WORKERS WERE EMPLOYED IN THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CONSTRUCTION SITES IN DECEMBER 1979. IT SHOWED A DECLINE OF 7.4 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE SEPTEMBER 1979 FIGURES. DURING THE SAME PERIOD, THE NUMBER OF WORKERS ENGAGED AT BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SITES OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR INCREASED BY 2.2 PER CENT TO 41 877.
COMPARATIVE STATISTICS OF EMPLOYMENT AT BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SITES ARE AS FOLLOWS i-
DECEMBER 1978
SEPTEMBER 1979
DECEMBER 1979
CONTRACTING PARTY i SITES IN OPERATION MANUAL WORKERS ENGAGED SITES IN OPERATION MANUAL WORKERS ENGAGED SITES IN OPERATION MANUAL WORKERS ENGAGED
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 305 20 586 244 16 742 232 16 412
HOUSING DEPARTMENT 57 10 222 75 16 543 78 18 210
MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY * 34 7 396 29 5 811 26 5 380
PRIVATE SECTOR 859 35 512 857 40 986 861 41 877
TOTAL 1 255 73 716 1 205 € SO 082 1 197 81 879
CONSTRUCTION SITES UNDER THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION REFER TO MTR CONTRACTS FOR WHICH WORK WAS IN PROGRESS DURING DECEMBER 1979.
FRlC**.* MARCH 14, 1980
2
FACILITIES TO DRAW WATER FROM HIGH ISLAND RESERVOIR
*****
WORK WILL START SHORTLY ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW WATER TUNNEL TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL DRAW-OFF FACILITIES FOR THE HIGH ISLAND WATER SCHEME.
TENDERS FOR THE WORK ARE BEING INVITED BY THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT.
THE WORK INCLUDES THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 800-METRE-LONG WATER TUNNEL OF 2.5 METRES IN DIAMETER FROM TAI SHU LAM TO PAK KONG AU AND A 500 METRES LONG ACCESS ROAD.
UPON COMPLETION, IT WILL BE ABLE TO DRAW WATER FROM THE HIGH ISLAND RESERVOIR THROUGH THE TUNNEL TO SAI KUNG TO COPE WITH THE INCREASING DEMAND IN THE AREA.
A TEMPORARY PUMPING AND TREATMENT STATION WILL BE BUILT IN THE AREA EARLY NEXT YEAR TO PROVIDE NECESSARY TREATMENT FACILITIES.
WORK ON THE PROJECT IS EXPECTED TO START IN JUNE AND WILL TAKE ABOUT 15 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
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GASHOLDERS EXAMINATION (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS ******
THE STATUTORY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE CONTROL OF GASHOLDERS HAS BEEN TRANSFERRED FROM THE MARINE DEPARTMENT TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
THE TRANSFER IS PROVIDED FOR IN THE GASHOLDERS EXAMINATION (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS I960 PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT THAT THE REGULATIONS WOULD HAVE NO BEARING ON THE GENERAL PUBLIC AS ALL THE GASHOLDERS COVERED BY EXISTING LEGISLATION WERE OWNED BY THE HONG KONG AND CHINA GAS COMPANY.
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE TRANSFER OF RESPONSIBILITY HAD BEEN PROMPTED BY THE FACT THAT GASHOLDERS WERE LAND-BASED EQUIPMENT AND THAT THE TECHNICAL EXPERTISE FOR THEIR CONTROL WAS AVAILABLE IN THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
0 --------
FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 1980
3
TSUEN WAN PARK PROJECT DROPPED ft ft ft ft
THE GOVERNMENT HAS WITH PHASE I OF THE TSO DETAILED INVESTIGATIONS
♦MOST RELUCTANTLY* DECIDED NOT TO PROCEED
KUNG HAVE
SERIOUS GEOTECHNIC PROBLEMS
TAM PARK PROJECT IN TSUEN WAN BECAUSE REVEALED POOR SOIL CONDITIONS AND
THE PROJECT COVERING AN AREA OF 38 HECTARES INCLUDED AN OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTRE.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES', MH DAVID AKERS-JONES SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT ALTHOUGH INVESTIGATIONS FOR PHASE II OF THE PROJECT WOULD CONTINUE THE GEOTECHNIC PROBLEMS MIGHT HAVE SERIOUS ADVERSE EFFECTS ON WHAT COULD BE DONE.
MR AKERS-JONES SAID CONSULTANTS NOW ESTIMATED THE OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTRE TO COST 164 MILLION. *CLEARLY IT IS NO LONGER ECONOMICAL TO PROCEED WITH PHASE I AND THE CENTRE SHOULD BE SITED SOMEWHERE ELSE,* HE SAID. *THIS IS BEING LOOKED INTO BY CONCERNED DEPARTMENTS.*
IN MARCH. 1977, THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED ITS INTENTION TO DEVELOP THE TSO KUNG TAM VALLEY INTO AN URBAN PARK AND OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTRE SUBJECT TO FUNDS BEING PROVIDED. THE VALLEY IS STEEP-SIDED AND IS INTERSECTED BY A STREAM. IT LIES ABOVE THE ASTERN END OF TSUEN WAN JUST BELOW ROUTE TWISK.
♦IT IS VERY VEXING THAT THE PROJECT CANNOT PROCEED AS ENVISAGED DUE TO A COMBINATION OF COST AND GEOTECHNIC CONSIDERATION M? AKERS-JONES SAID.
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NOTE TO EDITORS!
DSW TO OPEN SOCIAL SERVICE ft ft ft ft ft
CENTRE ON TSI NG Yl
THOMAS LEE TOMORROW
THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR (SATURDAY) WILL OFFICIALLY OPEN A SOCIAL SERVICE CENTRE RUN BY THE YOUNG WOMEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION AT CHEUNG CHING ESTATE
ON TSING Yl ISLAND
THE CENTRE PROVIDES THE COMMUNITY THERE A WIDE RANGE OF SOCIAL SERVICES INCLUDING FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION, SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK, OUTREACH I NG SOCIAL WORK AND GUIDANCE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE, AS WELL AS RECREATIONAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES.
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW AT THE CENTRE AT CHING YUNG HOUSE, CHEUNG CHING ESTATE ON TSING Yl ISLAND. PRESS REPRESENTATIVES ARE WELCOME TO USE A COACH TO TAKE GUESTS TO TSING Yl. THE COACH WILL BE PARKED IN HANKOW ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI, OUTSIDE THE YMCA BUILDING AND LEAVE AT 1.30 PM.
o -
FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 1980
4
NEW IRRIGATION SYSTEM FOR FARMERS * * * *
FARMERS IN THE SHEK KONG AREA WILL SOON HAVE A NEW IRRIGATION SYSTEM TO HELP IMPROVE THEIR CROP PRODUCTION.
TENDERS WERE CALLED TODAY (FRIDAY) IN THE GAZETTE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM, A HEADER TANK AND THE LAYING OF SOME 3 400 METRES OF PIPELINE TO DRAW WATER FROM A STREAM NEAR KAP LUNG VILLAGE AND DIVERT IT TO FARMS LOCATED AROUND SHEK TAU WAI AND SHEUNG TSUEN.
THE DAM WILL BE ABOUT 110 METRES ABOVE SEA LEVEL AND ABOUT TWO KILOMETRES SOUTH OF THE FARMS TO BE SERVED BY THE WATER SCHEME.
THE HEADER TANK WILL BE USED TO SETTLE THE WATER AND MAINTAIN THE PRESSURE.
ABOUT 60 HECTARES OF FARM LAND WILL BENEFIT FROM THE SCHEME.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY THAT AT PRESENT THE FARMERS WERE USING WATER DIRECTLY FROM STREAMS TO WATER THEIR CROPS.
HOWEVER, THE METHOD WAS UNDESIRABLE DUE TO POLLUTION CAUSED BY PIG WASTE WASHED INTO THE STREAMS FROM NEARBY PIG FARMS.
THE PIPELINE WILL BE ABLE TO DIVERT A FRESH WATER SUPPLY AWAY FROM THE PIG FARMS AND AT THE SAME TIME PROVIDE A SYSTEM SUITABLE FOR SPRINKLER IRRIGATION.
- 0 - -
NEEDY MATRICULATION STUDENTS CAN APPLY FOR GRANT
*****
NEEDY STUDENTS NOW STUDYING IN FORM/MIDDLE 5 OR FORM 6 CAN SOON APPLY FOR GOVERNMENT MAINTENANCE GRANTS IF THEY WISH TO PURSUE FULL-TIME MATRICULATION STUDIES IN THE NEXT ACADEMIC YEAR.
THE GRANT AMOUNTS TO ABOUT $500 PER ANNUM FOR EACH STUDENT. APPLICATION FORMS FOR THE GRANTS WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM JUNE 1 AT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S OVERSEAS STUDENTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS SECTION, 77 LEIGHTON ROAD, ROOM 1522, LEIGHTON CENTRE, 15TH FLOOR, CAUSEWAY BAY, HONG KONG.
IN THE CURRENT ACADEMIC YEAR, MORE THAN 1 600 FORM/MIDDLE 6 AND FORM 7 STUDENTS ARE RECEIVING GOVERNMENT MAINTENANCE GRANTS AMOUNTING TO OVER $900 000, AN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
FOR STUDENTS NOW STUDYING IN FORM/MILLDE 5, THE FORMS MUST BE RETURNED THROUGH HEADS OF SCHOOLS TO THE SECRETARY, MAINTENANCE GRANTS COMMITTEE, NOT LATER THAN 10 DAYS AFTER THE PUBLICATION OF THE CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION RESULTS.
/students in
FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 1980
5
STUDENTS IN FORM 6 AND PROMOTING TO FORM 7 MUST RETURN iHE APPLICATION FORMS THROUGH HEADS OF SCHOOLS TO THE SECRETARY NOT LATER THAN JULY 26.
♦GRANTS ARE AWARDED ON A YEARLY BASIS AND RENEWAL IS NOT AUTOMATIC. IF A RECIPIENT IN FORM 6 WISHES TO BE CONSIDERED FOR A GRANT ON PROMOTION TO FORM 7, HE MUST APPLY AGA IN,♦ THE SPOKESMAN
STUDENTS IN FORM 6 WHO ARE NOT RECEIVING GRANTS IN THE CURRENT ACADEMIC YEAR ARE ALSO ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR GRANTS TO ENABLE THEM TO COMPLETE THE ADVANCED LEVEL EXAMINATION COURSE IN 1980/81, HE SAID.
GRANTS WILL BE PAID THROUGH HEADS OF SCHOOLS AT THE END OF EACH MONTH IN ARREARS FOR 10 MONTHS IN THE YEAR, AND THERE WILL BE NO PAYMENTS FOR JULY AND AUGUST.
-------0---------
SHA TIN CHILDREN’S CHOIR TO MAKE DEBUT ft ft ft ft
THE 60-MEMBER SHA TIN DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD CHILDREN’S CHOIR WILL MAKE ITS DEBUT TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AFTERNOON.
MORE THAN 500 SENIOR GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS AND PROMINENT {EMBERS OF THE SHA TIN COMMUNITY ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND THE ONE-HOUR CONCERT AT THE KIANG SU-CHE KIANG COLLEGE IN WO CHE tSTAiEj SHA 1 IN*
oo. W,U ,HCLUDE CHINESE, ENGLISH. GERMAN AND
rVLISH rOLK SONGS•
STUDENTS FROM VARIOUS SHA TIN SCHOOLS WILL JOIN THE CHILDREN’S CTOIR TO PERFORM CLASSICAL AND POPULAR MUSIC. INCLUDING THE THEME SONG FROM THE RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG TELEVISION SERIES, ♦SUNNY SHA TIN+. CHINESE FOLK DANCES WILL ALSO BE PERFORMED.
™ TOGETHER WITH THE AUDIENCE, WILL SING A TRIBUTE
TO THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GERRY HIGGINSON, WHO LEAVES SHA TIN LATER THIS MONTH AFTER two AND A HALF YEARS IN THE POST.
..... W0,W pO-MING, PRINCIPAL OF THE KIANG SU-CHE KIANG COLLEGE, SAID MEMBERS OF THE CHOIR HAD BEEN SELECTED FROM A TOTAL OF 170 LOCAL APPLICANTS AGED BETWEEN SEVEN AND 10 YEARS. MR WONG IS CHAIRMAN OF THE CHOIR ORGANISING COMMITTEE AND A DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER.
HE SAID THE CHOIR HAD BEEN HOLDING TWO-HOUR TRAINING SESSIONS EACH SATURDAY SINCE LAST OCTOBER.
THREE INSTRUCTORS, MRS CHU WONG YUK-KAM, MR CHEUNG WAI AND ffiS SHIRLEY KAYE CHOW, TRAIN THE CHILDREN.
/the choir
FBIDAY, MARCH 1*+, 1980
6
THE CHOIR HAS BEEN FORMED BY THE SHA TIN DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD. IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE MUSIC OFFICE, AS PART OF A PROGRAMME TO PROMOTE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES IN SHA TIN.
NOTE TO EDITORSi YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND YOUR STAFF TO COVER THE DEBUT OF THE SHA TIN CHILDREN’S CHOIR AT THE KIANG SU-CHE KIANG COLLEGE. WO CHE ESTATE, SHA TIN, STARTING AT 3 PM TOMORROW (SATURDAY). A GOVERNMENT VAN (AM 3214) WILL LEAVE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER, TSIM SHA TSUI. AT 2.15 PM SHARP.
-------0----------
MONG KOK MUSIC FORTNIGHT » M » K
THE NEWLY-FORMED MONG KOK CHOIR OF THE MUSIC OFFICE WILL GIVE AN INAUGURAL CONCERT IN THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL ON SUNDAY (MARCH 16) TO MARK THE OPENING OF THE MONG KOK MUSIC FORTNIGHT.
THE FORTNIGHT TO BE HELD FROM MARCH 16 TO 29, IS ALSO ORGANISED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE.
PROGRAMMES OF THE MUSIC FORTNIGHT WILL INCLUDE A SERIES OF 10 CONCERTS AND SEMINARS IN CHORAL MUSIC AS WELL AS LECTURES BY GUEST SPEAKERS.
DURING THE INAUGURAL CONCERT ON SUNDAY, THE MONG KOK CHOIR, CONDUCTED BY MR ROY CHENG, WILL SING CHINESE AND WESTERN FOLK SONGS. THE MONG KOK CHILDREN’S CHOIR AND SOME FAMOUS SINGERS WILL ALSO APPEAR IN THE CONCERT.
NOTE TO EDITORSi YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE INAUGURAL CONCERT OF THE MONG KOK CHOIR OF THE MUSIC OFFICE WHICH WILL BE HELD IN THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL AT 8 PM ON SUNDAY (MARCH 16).
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FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 1980
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN MA TAU KOK ft ft ft ft
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE INTRODUCED IN MA TAU KOK FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (MARCH 17) FOR ABOUT SIX WEEKS TO FACILITATE ROADWORKS IN THE AREA.
UNDER THE ARRANGEMENTS, A SECTION OF THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY CF KOWLOON CITY ROAD BETWEEN SHEUNG HEUNG ROAD AND MA HANG CHUNG ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC AND A SECTION OF MA HANG CHUNG ROAD BETWEEN PAU CHUNG STREET AND KOWLOON CITY WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY EASTBOUND.
NORTHBOUND TRAFFIC ON KOWLOON CITY ROAD WILL BE DIVERTED VIA SHEUNG HEUNG ROAD, PAU CHUNG STREET TO MA HANG CHUNG ROAD.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
0--------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
SATURDAY, MARCH 15, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO,
WATER BILLING STREAMLINED ................................
FERTILITY TRENDS IN HONG KONG ............................ 2
COMMUNITY LEADERS JOIN ANTI-DRUG SEMINAR ................. 3
SOCIAL SERVICE CS4TRE OPENED AT CHEUNG CHING ............. 3
EMPLOYERS URGED TO TRAIN THEIR INSTRUCTORS ............... 4
SCHOOL QUIZ FINALS ON TV ................................. 5
FIRING PRACTICE .......................................... 5
CAMERON LANE RE-ROUTED ONE-JAY ........................... 6
WATER CUT
6
SATURDAY, MARCH 15, I960
1
WATER BILLING STREAMLINED * * * * * *
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT HAS REACHED ANOTHER MILESTONE IN ITS SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC ON COMPLETING ITS PHASE II COMPUTERISATION OF WATER ACCOUNTS FOR NON-TRADE USERS.
THIS STAGE OF COMPUTERISATION WILL COME INTO OPERATION ON THURSDAY (MARCH 20).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT THAT ALREADY ABOUT ICO 000 TRADE ACCOUNTS HAVE BEEN COMPUTERISED IN PHASE OF THE EXERCISE.
HE REVEALED THAT THE NUMBER OF REGISTERED CONSUMERS, TOTALLING SOME 900 000 AT PRESENT, IS INCREASING AT THE RATE CF SOME 5 000 A MONTH.
♦INTRODUCTION OF COMPUTERISATION WILL GREATLY ENHANCE THE BILLING SYSTEM AND WILL PROVIDE A BETTER AND MORE EFFICIENT SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC,♦ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS ARE IN THE SERVICE ON BILLING ENQUIRY AND IN SPEEDING UP PROCEDURES FOR BILLING AND BOOK-KEEPING.
♦HOWEVER, NOT ALL DOMESTIC USERS WILL RECEIVE THEIR NEXT WATER BILL IN THE COMPUTERISED FORMAT BECAUSE THE VARIOUS WATER BILLING CYCLES ARE BEING GRADUALLY CONVERTED OVER A 16-MONTH PERIOD,* HE SAID.
THOSE WHO RECEIVE THE BILL IN THE NEW FORMAT WILL ALSO RECEIVE AN EXPLANATORY NOTE EXPLAINING THE NEW FEATURES OF THE BILL.
ABOUT 60 000 DOMESTIC CONSUMERS IN 11 AREAS ON HONG KONG ISLAND AND IN KOWLOON WILL RECEIVE THEIR NEXT WATER BILL IN THE NEW COMPUTERISED FORM.
THE AREAS INCLUDE WAIfXHACAUSEWAY BAY,.SHAM SHUI PO, SO UK ESTATE, WONG TAI SIN ESTATE, CHOI HUNG ESTATE, PING SHEK ESTATE, MA TAU WAI ESTATE, WOR LOK ESTATE, TAI HANG TUNG ESTATE AND TAI HANG SAI ESTATE.
THE NEW BILL IS DIFFERENT FROM THE MANUALLY COMPILED ONE IN THAT IT WILL BE MORE INFORMATIVE.
IT WILL SHOW THE CONSUMER'S METER NUMBER, THE PREVIOUS READING DATE, AND THE BALANCE BROUGHT FORWARD FROM THE LAST BILL. ALL CHARGES WILL BE ROUNDED DOWN TO THE NEAREST HONG KONG DOLLAR WITH THE ODD CENTS CARRIED FORWARD TO THE NEXT BILL. THE CONSUMER WILL BE GIVEN A NEW ACCOUNT NUMBER COMPRISING 14 DIGITS.
♦ONE POINT CONSUMERS SHOULD NOTE IS THAT IN THE CALCULATION CF WATER CHARGES UNDER THE NEW COMPUTERISED SYSTEM, ’ONE-MONTH’ IS TO BE RECKONED AS EQUAL TO 30.41 DAYS.* THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED.
/THE BILLING .....
SATURDAY, MARCH 15, 1980
2
THE BILLING SCHEDULE FOR BOTH TRADE AND DOMESTIC ACCOUNTS WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED AND ALL REGISTERED CONSUMERS WILL CONTINUE TO RECEIVE THEIR BILLS AT THE USUAL TIME — ONCE EVERY FOUR MONTHS.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO URGED DOMESTIC CONSUMERS RECEIVING THEIR NEW BILLS IN THE COMPUTERISED FORMAT TO CHECK, IN THE IR OWN INTEREST, THE CORRECTNESS OF THE ’NAME AND POSTAL ADDRESS AND THE ’SERVICE ADDRESS’ AND TO QUOTE THE NEW ACCOUNT NUMBER IN ALL CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT
CONCERNING THEIR WATER BILLS.
FERTILITY TRENDS IN HONG KONG
*****
DESPITE A LARGE INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF WOMEN IN THE MORE FERTILE AGE GROUP IN THE 197OS, THERE WAS STILL A GRADUAL DECLINE IN THE BIRTH RATE IN HONG KONG.
THIS OBSERVATION IS MADE IN A SPECIAL REVIEW ARTICLE ON ♦RECENT TRENDS IN FERTILITY IN HONG KONG+ IN THE DECEMBER 1979 ISSUE OF THE HONG KONG MONTHLY DIGEST OF STATISTICS.
THE ARTICLE GIVES A BRIEF ACCOUNT OF THE TREND IN THE BIRTH RATE SINCE 1971 AND IDENTIFIES THE FACTORS THAT ARE ASSOCIATED WITH ITS DECLINE.
THE DECLINE IN THE CRUDE BIRTH RATE. WHICH WAS VERY RAPID IN THE SIXTIES, BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN IN THE SEVENTIES. AS THE LARGE NUMBER OF BABIES BORN IN THE LATE FIFTIES AND EARLY SIXTIES MOVED UP THE AGE LADDER, THE NUMBER OF WOMEN IN THE MORE FERTILE AGE GROUP, 20-29, INCREASED TREMENDOUSLY IN THE SEVENTIES.
THE EFFECT OF THIS HAS BEEN TO INCREASE, INSTEAD OF LOWER, THE BIRTH RATE. HOWEVER, A GRADUAL DECLINE IN THE BIRTH RATE WAS STILL OBSERVED AS THIS INCREASE WAS MORE THAN COUNTERBALANCED BY THE DECLINE IN THE LEVEL OF FERTILITY WHICH HAS BECOME MORE AND MORE SIGNIFICANT SINCE 1971.
THE CONTINUED AND SUSTAINED DECLINE IN FERTILITY IS THE RESULT OF THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL CHANGES THAT HONG KONG HAS UNDERGONE DURING THE PAST TWO DECADES. RAPID INDUSTRIALIZATION AND URBANIZATION, IMPROVEMENT IN THE STATUS OF AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN, BETTER EDUCATION AND OTHER REASONS ALL HELP TO DEVELOP THE GROWTH OF INDIVIDUAL ASPIRATIONS AND INDUCE THE YOUNGER GENERATIONS TO TAKE A MORE POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS SMALLER FAMILY SIZE.
THE DECEMBER 1979 ISSUE OF THE MONTHLY DIGEST IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE IN THE GPO BUILDING AT CONNAUGHT PLACE.
SATURDAY, MARCH 15, 1980
3
COMMUNITY LEADERS JOIN ANT!-DRUG SEMINAR
*****
ABOUT 100 COMMUNITY LEADERS TODAY (SATURDAY) TOOK PART IN AN ANTI-DRUG SEMINAR ORGANISED BY THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS AT THE SHEK KWU CHAU DRUG TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION CENTRE.
THE SEMINAR IS AIMED AT GIVING COMMUNITY LEADERS AN INSIGHT INTO HOW THE GOVERNMENT, VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND THE PUBLIC WORK TOGETHER TO KEEP HONG KONG DRUG-FREE, AND DISCUSSING WAYS AND MEANS TO FURTHER PROMOTE ANT I-NARCOTICS ACTIVITIES IN HONG KONG AT DISTRICT LEVEL.
MR PETER LEE, COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, AND MR BROOK BERNACCHI. CHAIRMAN OF THE SOCIETY FOR THE AID AND REHABILITATION OF DRUG ABUSERS. (SARDA), OFF IC IATED"AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
SPEAKING AT THE SEMINAR WERE THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR BOWEN LEUNG- THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES (NARCOTICS), DR K.F. CHAN AND THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES OF SARDA, MR JAMES CHIEN.
THE COMMUNITY LEADERS ATTENDING THE SEMINAR WERE FROM DISTRICTS WHERE INTENSIVE ANT I-DRUG CAMPAIGNS HAD BEEN HELD OVER THE PAST YEARS. THEY WERE FROM SHAM SHU I PO, WONG TAI SIN, WAN CHAI, MONG KOK AND TSUEN WAN. ,
THE PLANNING AND ORGANISING OF THE SEMINAR WAS ASSISTED BY SARDA AND THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF SARDA.
-----0------
SOCIAL SERVICE CENTRE OPENED AT CHEUNG CHING
******
A SOCIAL SERVICE CENTRE ON TSI NG Yl WHICH PROVIDES EDUCATIONAL SERVICES AND RECREATIONAL PROGRAMMES FOR THE LOCAL COMMUNITY WAS OPENED BY THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR THOMAS LEE TODAY (SATURDAY).
THE CENTRE, AT CHEUNG CHING ESTATE, IS OPERATED BY THE YOUNG WOMEN’S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION (Y.W.C.A.). ITS FITTING-OUT EXPENDITURE WAS MET BY THE LOTTERIES FUND.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY THIS AFTERNOON, MR LEE DESCRIBED THE CENTRE AS YET ANOTHER ACHIEVEMENT BY THE ASSOCIATION IN ITS PROVISION OF SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES.
HE SAID THE Y.W.C.A., WHICH COMMEMORATES ITS 60TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR, HAS BEEN EXPANDING ITS SCOPE OF SERVICES IN LINE WITH GOVERNMENT POLICIES TO MEET CHANGING SOCIAL NEEDS.
THE CENTRE ON TSING Yl, HE SAID, IS THE SEVENTH OF ITS KIND RUN BY THE ASSOCIATION, THE OTHER SIX BEING IN THE WESTERN DISTRICT ON HONG KONG ISLAND, WONG TAI SIN, KOWLOON CITY AND NGAU TAU KOK IN KOWLOON, AND TSUEN WAN AND TUEN MUN IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
/social service ....
SATURDAY, MARCH 15, 1980
4
SOCIAL SERVICE CENTRES PROVIDE DEVELOPMENT, FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION, SOCIAL WORK AND GUIDANCE FOR YOUNG AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES.
SUCH SERVICES AS COMMUNITY SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK, OUTREACH I NG PEOPLE, AS WELL AS RECREATIONAL
♦IT IS GRATIFYING TO LEARN THAT THE Y.W.C.A. PLANS TO OPERATE
‘the^rly™ MeV'*"""** c‘re *rd serv,ces for
0
EMPLOYERS URGED
EMPLOYERS SHOULD PROVIDE INSTRUCTORS TO RECEIVE FORMAL
TO TRAIN THEIR INSTRUCTORS ft ft ft ft ft
ADEQUATE INCENTIVES TO ENCOURAGE THEIR TRAINING.
THIS IS ONE OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE COMMITTEE ON INSTRUCTORS TRAINING OF THE HONG KONG TRAINING COUNCIL IN ITS REPORT ON THE THIRD SURVEY OF INSTRUCTORS TO BE PUBLISHED.
THE REPORT ALSO SUGGESTS THAT EMPLOYERS SHOULD RETAIN THEIR TRAINED INSTRUCTORS FOR TEACHING PURPOSES.
THE SURVEY, CONDUCTED IN JULY LAST YEAR. WAS AIMED AT DETERMINING THE DEMAND FOR INSTRUCTORS BY INDUSTRY. EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND TO UPDATE THE INFORMATION OBTAINED IN THE SECOND SURVEY CONDUCTED IN 1977.
THE REPORT CONTAINS INFORMATION ON THE NEEDS OF TRAINED INSTRUCTORS IN HONG KONG AND RECOMMENDATIONS ON MEASURES NECESSARY TO MEET THE NEEDS.
COPIES OF THE REPORT, IN BOTH CHINESE..AND ^ENGLISH*. WILL BE ON SALE FROM MONDAY (MARCH 17) AT S6.5O~£ACH AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, HONG KONG.
SATURDAY, MARCH 15, 1980
5
SCHOOL QUIZ FINALS ON TV
* * *
THE FINALS OF THE TELEVISION QUIZ SHOW +COMMUNITY YOUTH CHALLENGE* WILL BE SCREENED ON TUESDAY (MARCH 18) AT 5.30 PM ON HK-TVB JADE.
SCHOOLS TAKING PART IN THE FINALS ARE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS WONG FUNG LING COLLEGE, SHENG KUNG HUI LUI MING CHOI SECONDARY SCHOOL AND HONG KONG AND KOWLOON CHIU CHOW SCHOOL.
THE SHOW FEATURES HIGHLY COMPETITIVE TELEMATCH GAMES AND AN INDOOR QUIZ ON COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.
THE COMPETITION IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND THE EDUCATION TELEVISION SECTION OF RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG.
MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUBS FROM 21 SCHOOLS HAVE TAKEN PART IN THE CONTEST WHICH LASTED 10 WEEKS.
MR R.M. CAMERON, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (CHIEF INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS)- MR STUART WILKINSON, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING- AND MR H LIANG OF LIONS CLUB INTERNATIONAL WILL PRESENT PRIZES TO THE WINNERS.
MR THOMPSON CHAN, FEDERATION OF INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ASSOCIATIONS REFEREE OF HONG KONG, WILL BE THE CHIEF ADJUDICATOR OF THE OUTDOOR TELEMATCH.
THE FINALS WILL ALSO BE SHOWN ON RTV 1 ON SUNDAY (MARCH 23) AT 6 PM.
0--------
FIRING PRACTICE ft ft ft ft
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE HA TSUEN-CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON FIVE DAYS NEXT WEEK.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WARNED NOT TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN RED FLAGS ARE FLYING DURING THE TIME OF PRACTICE.
THE PRACTISING TIMES AREi
DATE TIME
MARCH 17 (MONDAY) 8 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 18 (TUESDAY) 8 AM ~ 5 PM
MARCH 19 (WEDNESDAY) 8 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 20 (THURSDAY) 8 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 21 (FRIDAY) 8 AM — 4 PM
SATURDAY, MARCH 15, 1980
6
CAMERON LANE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY ft ft ft ft * ft
A SECTION OF CAMERON LANE BETWEEN HOUSE NO 10 AND CARNARVON ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY WESTBOUND FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY (MARCH 18) TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC CIRCULATION.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
WATER CUT ft ft ft
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF PREMISES IN SHA TIN WILL BE TURNED OFF FOR 10 HOURS FROM 8 PM ON MONDAY (MARCH 17) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY. WATER WORKS WILL BE CARRIED OUT DURING THAT PERIOD.
THE AREAS TO BE AFFECTED ARE SHA TIN OLD TOWN, LEK YUEN ESTATE, WO CHE ESTATE, PAI TAU ESTATE, SHEUNG HA WO CHE, FO TAN, ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB, LOK LO HA VILLAGE IN HO TUNG LAU, SHA TIN SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS AND THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG.
_ o - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
SUNDAY, MARCH 16, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
SLIGHT INCREASE IN TRADE EMPLOYMENT ............. 1
MORE FISH YIELDED BY LOCAL PONDS ................ 2
REMINDER ON STATUTORY HOLIDAY ................... 5
CLEAN-UP FOR YUEN LONG RIVER .....................
PLASTICS INDUSTRY SHOULD TRAIN MORE WORKERS ..... 5
SENIOR TRANSPORT INSPECTOR RETIRES .............. 5
ANOTHER LIBRARY FOR SHA TIN ..................... 6
ANOTHER 'VATER PIPELINE
6
SUNDAY, MARCH 16, 198q
1
SLIGHT INCREASE IN TRADE EMPLOYMENT
* * ft ft ft
THERE WAS A SLIGHT INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE EMPLOYED IN THE WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS, AS REVEALED BY AN EMPLOYMENT SURVEY FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER OF LAST YEAR.
RESULTS OF THE SURVEY WERE ANNOUNCED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY.
IN DECEMBER 1979, A TOTAL OF 289 207 PERSONS WERE ENGAGED IN THE WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, AN INCREASE OF 957 OR 0.3 PER CENT OVER SEPTEMBER 1979. WHEN COMPARED WITH 287 037 PERSONS ENGAGED IN DECEMBER 1978, THERE WAS AN INCREASE OF 2 170 PERSONS OR 0.8 PER CENT.
EMPLOYMENT IN RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND BARS REACHED 110 536 PERSONS, BEING 0.3 PER CENT ABOVE THE SEPTEMBER 1979 FIGURE AND 4.8 PER CENT ABOVE DECEMBER 1978.
AT THE SAME TIME, 18 906 PERSONS WERE ENGAGED IN HOTELS AND BOARDING HOUSES. THIS REPRESENTS A DECREASE OF 0.5 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1979 AND AN INCREASE OF 0.1 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD OF 1978.
DETAILS OF EMPLOYMENT IN WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS IN DECEMBER 1979, SEPTEMBER 1979 AND DECEMBER 1978 ARE AS FOLLOWSi
CHANGE OF DECEMBER 1979 OVER SEPTEMBER 1979
NATURE OF BUSINESS PERSONS ENGAGED IN DECEMBER 1978 PERSONS ENGAGED IN SEPTEMBER 1979 PERSONS ENGAGED IN DECEMBER 1979 PERSONS ENGAGED % CHANGE
WHOLESALE TRADE 42 831 44 862 44 401 - 461 -1.0
RETAIL TRADE 145 511 139 617 140 215 ♦ 598 0.4
IMPORT/EXPORT BUSINESS 98 695 103 771 104 591 ♦ 820 0.8
RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND BARS 105 470 110 169 110 536 ♦ 367 0.3
HOTELS AND BOARDING HOUSES 18 878 19 006 18 906 - 100 -0.5
TOTAL 411 385 417 425 418 649 ♦1 224 0.3
DETAILED EMPLOYMENT FIGURES FOR VARIOUS TRADES AND ACTIVITIES ARE OBTAINABLE ON REQUEST FROM THE EMPLOYMENT AND EARNINGS STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
-------o----------
SUNDAY, MARCH 16, 1980
2
MORE FISH YIELDED BY LOCAL PONDS * * * *
HONG KONG’S POND FISH FARMERS ARE BEING HELPED TO REAR MORE FISH AT LESS COST TO SUPPLY OUR TABLE.
GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE, INCLUDING LOW-INTEREST LOANS AND TECHNICAL SERVICES. ARE AVAILABLE TO HELP THEM DEVELOP THE INLAND FISH CULTURE INDUSTRY WHICH LAST YEAR YIELDED 6 540 TONNES OF FRESH WATER FISH WORTH MORE THAN $82 MILLION.
THE LOANS ARE MADE FROM THE KADOORIE AGRICULTURAL AID LOAN FUND AND THE J E JOSEPH TRUST FUND ADMINISTERED BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT. THE MONEY CAN BE USED TO BUILD OR IMPROVE EXISTING FISH PONDS OR USED TO STOCK FISH TRY AND BUY FEED.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY THAT THE AMOUNT OF LOANS DISTRIBUTED DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS AMOUNTED TO $1.4 MILLION.
♦IN THE LAST FINANCIAL YEAR ALONE, THE LOANS TOTALLED $262 500,+ HE SAID, +AND IN VIEW OF THE INCREASED COST OF PRODUCTION, THE MAXIMUM LIMIT OF A SINGLE LOAN HAS BEEN RAISED FROM $5 000 TO $10 000.+
INTEREST IS CHARGED AT ONLY 4.2 TO 4.8 PER CENT PER ANNUM AND THE REPAYMENT PERIOD CAN BE AS LONG AS THREE YEARS.
APPLICATION CAN BE MADE THROUGH THE EIGHT AGRICULTURAL LIAISON OFFICES OF THE DEPARTMENT IN THE NEW TERRITORIES AND THE AU TAU FISHERY CULTURE DEVELOPMENT OFFICE IN YUEN LONG.
♦ TO ENSURE THAT LOANS GIVEN OUT ARE PRODUCTIVELY SPENT, THE DEPARTMENT COMPLEMENTS THE CASH PAYMENT WITH ADVICE AND TECHNICAL SERVICES TO SUPPORT THE FARMERS.
♦ IN ADDITION, OFFICERS OF THE DEPARTMENT FREQUENTLY VISIT THEM THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, TO GIVE ON-THE-SPOT ADVICE ON HOW TO INCREASE YIELD AND CONTROL DISEASES,* THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
THE DEPARTMENT IS ALSO PLANNING MORE TRAINING COURSES FOR THE FARMERS IN ORDER TO IMPROVE THEIR KNOWLEDGE AND TECHNIQUES IN FISH FARMING. SOME OF THESE TECHNIQUES ARE INTRODUCED BY ITS FISH CULTURE SECTION.
♦THE GREATEST PROBLEM WITH POND FISH CULTURE IS LACK OF OXYGEN IN THE WATER. TO OVERCOME THIS, A SPECIALLY DESIGNED WATER MILL HAS BEEN RECOMMENDED TO THE FARMERS WHICH CONSTANTLY DRAWS AIR FROM THE ATMOSPHERE INTO THE PONDS,♦ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
♦FARMERS ARE ALSO TAUGHT HOW TO TEST AND CONTROL THE ACIDITY OF THEIR POND WATER SO THAT THE FISH CAN GROW IN THE BEST ENVIRONMENT.♦
♦ IF THEY FIND THE WATER TOO ACIDIC, IT CAN BE NEUTRALISED WITH THE ADDITION OF CALCIUM CARBONATE,♦ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
/ALSO NEWLY .....
SUNDAY, MARCH 16, 1980
3
ALSO NEWLY RECOMMENDED TO THE FARMERS IS AN IMPROVED MIXED FEED IN GRANULAR FORM.
THIS FEED CONTAINS BALANCED NUTRITION AND CAN STAY INTACT IN WATER FOR A LONGER TIME, SO THAT THE FISH CAN BE FED IN MUCH LESS TIME AND MUCH MORE ECONOMICALLY.
THE LOCAL YIELD OF FRESH WATER FISH LAST YEAR REPRESENTS AN INCREASE OF 13 PER CENT OVER THE PREVIOUS YEAR. THE PONDS HAVE A COMBINED AREA OF ABOUT 1 800 HECTARES, THE MAJORITY OF THEM LOCATED IN YUEN LONG. THE MOST IMPORTANT FISH SPECIES PRODUCED ARE GREY MULLET, BIG HEAD, SILVER CARP, GRASS CARP AND COMMON CARP.
-----0------
REMINDER ON STATUTORY HOLIDAY X * * M
A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY REMINDED EMPLOYERS THAT CHING MING FESTIVAL, WHICH FALLS ON FRIDAY, APRIL 4, THIS YEAR, IS ONE OF THE TEN STATUTORY HOLIDAYS APPOINTED UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE.
HE POINTED OUT THAT ALTHOUGH MONDAY, MARCH 31 HAD BEEN SET ASIDE AS A GENERAL HOLIDAY IN LIEU OF CHING MING BECAUSE APRIL 4 COINCIDES WITH GOOD FRIDAY, CHING MING REMAINS A STATUTORY HOLIDAY UNDER THE ORDINANCE.
UNDER THE ORDINANCE, ALL MANUAL EMPLOYEES WITHOUT DISTINCTION, INCLUDING DOMESTIC SERVANTS, IRRESPECTIVE OF THEIR EARNINGS AND ALL NON-MANUAL EMPLOYEES EARNING NOT MORE THAN S3 500 A MONTH, ARE ENTITLED TO THE HOLIDAY. THEY MUST ALSO BE PAID FOR THE DAY OFF IF THEY HAVE WORKED CONTINUOUSLY FOR THEIR EMPLOYER FOR THREE MONTHS IMMEDIATELY PRECEDING THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY.
IF AN EMPLOYEE IS REQUIRED TO WORK ON THE HOLIDAY, HE MUST BE GIVEN AN ALTERNATIVE DAY OFF WITHIN 60 DAYS BEFORE OR AFTER THAT DAY.
IF THE ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAY IS TO BE GRANTED BEFORE THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY, THE EMPLOYER MUST NOTIFY THE EMPLOYEE 48 HOURS IN ADVANCE OF THE ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAY. IN THE CASE WHERE AN ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAY IS TO BE GIVEN AFTER THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY, THE EMPLOYEE MUST BE NOTIFIED OF THE ARRANGEMENT AT LEAST 48 HOURS BEFORE THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY.
IF BOTH EMPLOYER AND EMPLOYEE AGREE, ANY DAY WITHIN 30 DAYS OF A STATUTORY HOLIDAY OR ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAY MAY BE TAKEN BY THE EMPLOYEE AS A SUBSTITUTED HOLIDAY.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT STATUTORY HOLIDAYS MAY BE MADE TO THE NEAREST BRANCH OFFICE OF THE LABOUR RELATIONS SERVICE. TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF THE OFFICES AREt KOWLOON EAST 3-205638- KOWLOON WEST 3-201652- KWUN TONG 3-898520- TSUEN WAN 12-422096- TUEN MUN 12-818443 EXT. 82 AND HONG KONG ISLAND 5-282523 EXT. 60.
-------0 -
A
SUNDAY, MARCH 16, 1980
4
CLEAN-UP FOR YUEN LONG RIVER
* * * *
GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD (DAB) ARE TO IMPLEMENT A 1900 000 PROJECT TO CLEAN UP THE HUNG SHU I KIU RIVER AND CATCHMENT AREAS IN YUEN LONG DISTRICT.
AN OFFICIAL MEMBER OF YUEN LONG DAB AND THE URBAN SERVICES OFFICER (YUEN LONG), MR MOK LEUNG, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) THE DAB AND LOCAL DISTRICT OFFICE HAD AWARDED A NUMBER OF CONTRACTS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF REFUSE COLLECTION POINTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE FIRST PHASE OF THE PROJECT WHICH IS EXPECTED TO START IN A FEW WEEKS.
THE FIRST PHASE INCLUDES THE DAILY CLEAN-UP OF A 4.7 KILOMETRE STRETCH OF THE RIVER AND ADJACENT AREAS, AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF 16 BIN SITES AND FOUR REFUSE COLLECTION POINTS TO SERVICE ABOUT 200 FARMS LOCATED IN VILLAGES IN THE VICINITY.
♦CLEANING STAFF WILL COLLECT ON A DAILY BASIS REFUSE AND FARM WASTE LEFT AT THE BIN SITES AND REFUSE COLLECTION POINTS BY THE VILLAGERS.
♦VEHICLES WILL THEN COLLECT THE REFUSE AND WASTE FOR DISPOSAL. PATHS WILL BE WIDENED TO GIVE THE COLLECTION VEHICLES EASY ACCESS,♦ HE SAID.
MR MOK SAID AN ESTIMATED 18 TONS OF REFUSE AND FARM WASTE, WHICH HAD HITHERTO FOUND ITS WAY INTO THE RIVER AND ON TO THE TWO BANKS, WAS EXPECTED TO BE COLLECTED EACH DAY.
HE SAID THE LARGE AMOUNT OF REFUSE AND FARM WASTE PREVIOUSLY BEING DEPOSITED INTO THE RIVER HAD GREATLY HAMPERED EXISTING CLEANING OF THE RIVER ON A REGULAR BASIS.
THE YUEN LONG DAB HOPED THAT IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROJECT WOULD TACKLE THE PROBLEM AT SOURCE, HE SAID.
THE NEW TERRITORIES SERVICES DEPARTMENT, THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT AND THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICE ARE INVOLVED IN PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTING THE PROJECT.
♦IT IS HOPED THAT THE SECOND PHASE WILL EVENTUALLY COVER THE ENTIRE CATCHMENT AREAS OF THE RIVER,+ MR MOK SAID.
SUNDAY, MARCH 16, I960
5
PLASTICS INDUSTRY SHOULD TRAIN MORE WORKERS ft ft ft ft
THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY SHOULD MAKE GREATER EFFORTS IN TRAINING THE SKILLED MANPOWER IT NEEDS FOR THE FUTURE.
THIS RECOMMENDATION IS MADE BY THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY TRAINING BOARD OF THE HONG KONG TRAINING COUNCIL IN ITS REPORT ON THE FIFTH MANPOWER SURVEY OF THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY.
COPIES OF THE REPORT, IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE, WILL BE ON SALE FROM TOMORROW (MONDAY) AT $8 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE.
ACCORDING TO THE SURVEY WHICH WAS CONDUCTED IN JULY 1979, THE INDUSTRY’S TOTAL MANPOWER HAD GROWN SUBSTANTIALLY TO 92 794, AN INCREASE OF SOME 26 OOO WORKERS OVER THE PREVIOUS SURVEY CONDUCTED IN 1977.
THE TRAINING BOARD ANTICIPATES THAT THE INDUSTRY WILL CONTINUE TO GROW DESPITE MANY UNFAVOURABLE FACTORS, BOTH INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL. THESE FACTORS INCLUDE UNSTABLE SUPPLY AND COST OF PLASTICS RAW MATERIALS, HIGH BANK INTEREST RATES, DIMINISHING VALUE OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR, SPIRALLING WAGES AND LAND COSTS, SLOWING DOWN OF MAJOR WESTERN ECONOMIES AND EMERGENCE OF CHINA AS A MANUFACTURING CENTRE.
THE BOARD STRONGLY URGES EMPLOYERS NOT ONLY TO IMPROVE THE WORKING ENVIRONMENT IN THEIR FACTORIES SO AS TO ATTRACT MORE YOUNG PEOPLE TO JOIN THE INDUSTRY, BUT ALSO TO MAKE FULL USE OF THE TRAINING FACILITIES AVAILABLE AT TECHNICAL INSTITUTIONS BY SPONSORING THEIR EMPLOYEES TO ATTEND PART-TIME DAY RELEASE COURSES.
THE REPORT SETS OUT, BESIDES STATISTICAL INFORMATION ON THE EMPLOYMENT STRUCTURE OF THE INDUSTRY, PROJECTED MANPOWER REQUIREMENTS AT THE TECHNOLOGIST, TECHNICIAN AND CRAFTSMAN LEVELS FOR THE PERIOD 1982 TO 1987.
-------o----------
SENIOR TRANSPORT INSPECTOR RETIRES ft ft ft ft ft
A SENIOR TRANSPORT INSPECTOR WHO SERVED UNDER FOUR COMMISSIONERS FOR TRANSPORT IS RETIRING AFTER WORKING MORE THAN 11 YEARS WITH THE DEPARTMENT.
THE OFFICER, MR ANDREW LEUNG HING-HUNG, WAS A FIGHTER PILOT DURING THE WAR, AN AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER, AND A RESERVE COMMODITIES INSPECTOR BEFORE HE JOINED THE DEPARTMENT AS A TRANSPORT INSPECTOR. HE WAS PROMOTED TO SENIOR TRANSPORT INSPECTOR IN MARCH 1979.
MR LEUNG RECALLED THAT WHEN HE FIRST JOINED, THE DEPARTMENT WAS LOCATED IN RUMSEY STREET WITH A TOTAL ESTABLISHMENT OF LESS THAN 300.
/+MY OWN ...
SUNDAY, MARCH 16, 1980
6
♦MY OWN SECTION HAD ONLY FIVE OR SIX TRANSPORT INSPECTORS. WE DID NOT HAVE MUCH TO DO THEN, BUT THAT WAS MORE THAN 10 YEARS AGO. THERE WERE NOT AS MANY PEOPLE AND CARS THEN AS NOW,^ HE SAID.
HE SAW THE DEPARTMENT GROW TO A STRENGTH OF NEARLY 1 000. +MY OWN SECTION NOW HAS 13 TRANSPORT INSPECTORS AND TWO SENIOR TRANSPORT INSPECTORS,+ HE SAID.
ANOTHER LIBRARY FOR SHA TIN *****
SHA TIN’S NEWEST LIBRARY WILL BE OFFICIALLY OPENED TOMORROW (MONDAY) ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF SAU CHUEN HOUSE IN LEK YUEN ESTATE.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GERRY HIGGINSON, AND UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS OF THE LOCAL DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 5.30 PM.
THE LIBRARY, THE SIXTH IN THE NEW TOWN, IS FINANCED BY THE DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD.
NOTE TO EDITORSi
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND STAFF TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY. GOVERNMENT TRANSPORT VAN NO. AM 3214 WILL TAKE PRESS REPRESENTATIVES TO SHA TIN, LEAVING KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER, TSIM SHA TSUI, AT 4.45 PM.
NEW VATER PIPELINE * * * *
A NEW FRESH WATER MAIN WILL BE LAID ON HONG KONG ISLAND TO MEET THE INCREASED DEMAND FOR WATER BY DEVELOPMENTS IN POKFULAM, ABERDEEN, AP LEI CHAU, WONG CHUK HANG AND SHOUSON HILL.
TENDERS FOR THE PROJECT ARE BEING INVITED BY THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE PWD’S WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT SAID 700 METRES OF A 900 MM MAIN WOULD BE LAID IN VICTORIA ROAD FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH SASSOON ROAD TO CONSORT RISE.
ON COMPLETION, IT WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING 675 MM MAIN.
WORK IS EXPECTED TO START IN MAY AND WILL TAKE ABOUT TEN MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
- 0 -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL 5-233191
MONDAY, MARCH 17, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
PRICE MOVEMENTS GF EXTERNAL TRADE IN 1979 ................... 1
DPW OPENS SEMINAR ON PRESTRESSED CONSTRUCTION ............... 3
SHA TIN TO HAVE FIRST PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE SCON ................................................ 4
CIVIL AVIATION CHIEF LEAVES FOR PUBLIC HEARING IN LONDON .................................................. 5
PROPOSALS FOR ALTERATION OF VALUATION LISTS FOR 1980/81 .................................................... 6
LEAFLET TO EXPLAIN JSEA SYSTEM ............................. 6
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN KI JAI CHUNG ....................... 7
WATER CUT .................................................... 7
MONDAY, MARCH 17, 1980
1
PRICE MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN 1979 * * M M *
THE.PRICES OF BOTH DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND IMPORTS ROSE BY 18 PER KNT IN 1979 COMPARED WITH THE PREVIOUS YEAR, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS RELEASED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY).
A SLIGHTLY HIGHER INCREASE IN VOLUME WAS REGISTERED IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS (♦ 17$) THAN IMPORTS (+ 15$).
RE-EXPORTS SHOWED AN INCREASE OF 20 P-ER CENT IN PRICE IN 1979 OVER 1978, WHILE THE VOLUME WAS UP BY 27 PER CENT.
PRICES ARE BASED ON UNIT VALUES WHICH DO NOT TAKE INTO ACCOUNT CHANGES IN THE QUALITY OF GOODS TRADED. THE CHANGES IN THE VOLUME OF TRADE ARE DERIVED FROM THE TRADE VALUES, LESS THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES.
AN ANALYSIS OF THE RELATIVE CHANGES IN THE VALUES, UNIT VALUES AND VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY COMMODITY IS GIVEN BELOW i-
CHANGES IN 1979 OVER 1978
EXPORT VALUES EXPORT UNIT VALUES EXPORT VOLUME
CLOTHING (EXCEPT FUR) ♦ 27$ ♦ 21$ ♦ 5$
textile FABRICS ♦ 42$ ♦ 23$ ♦ 15$
textile YARN AND THREAD ♦ 30$ ' ♦ 21$ ♦ 8$
textile made-ups and RELATED ARTICLES ♦ 49$ ♦ 24$ ♦ 20$
ALL TRANSISTORISED RADIOS ♦ 37$ ♦ 11$ ♦ 23$
ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS ♦ 30$ ♦ 11$ ♦ 16$
FOOTWEAR ♦ 21$ ♦ 8$ ♦ 12$
METAL MANUFACTURES ♦ 42$ ♦ 18$ ♦ 20$
METAL ORES AND SCRAP ♦ 83$ ♦ 29$ 4* 41$
WATCHES AND CLOCKS ♦ 59$ ♦ 3$ ♦ 54$
ALL COMMODITIES ♦ 37$ ♦ 18$ ♦ 17$
THE SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN THE VALUES OF CLOTHING AND TEXTILES EXPORTED WERE ATTRIBUTED LARGELY TO THE INCREASE IN PRICES. IN FACT, THE VOLUME OF CLOTHING AND TEXTILES EXPORTED TO USA DECREASED BY THREE PER CENT AND 14 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN 1979. THE HIGHEST REAL GROWTH FOR CLOTHING EXPORTS WAS RECORDED FOR UK (♦ 18$) AND THAT FOR TEXTILES WAS WEST GERMANY (♦ 50$).
/THE OVERSEAS
MONDAY, MABCH 17, 1980
2
THE OVERSEAS DEMAND FOR LOCALLY PRODUCED WATCHES AND CLOCKS REMAINED ACTIVE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. EXPORT VOLUMES TO WEST GERMANY, UK AND USA INCREASED BY 128 PER CENT, 46 PER CENT AND 40 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUES, UNIT VALUES, AND VOLUMES OF IMPORTS CLASSIFIED BY END-USE ARE AS FOLLOWS i-
CHANGES IN 1979 OVER 1978
IMPORT VALUES IMPORT UNIT VALUES IMPORT VOLUME
FOODSTUFFS + 17# + 10# + 6#
CONSUMER GOODS ♦ 28# + 16# ♦ 11#
CAPITAL GOODS + 49# + 10# + 36#
RAW MATERIALS AND
SEMI-MANUFACTURES + 41# + 21# + 17#
FUELS ♦ 58# ♦ 45# ♦ 9#
ALL COMMODITIES + 36# + 18# + 15#
THE DEMAND FOR CAPITAL GOODS AND RAW MATERIALS AND SEMIMANUFACTURES WAS FAR MUCH HIGHER THAN THAT FOR CONSUMER GOODS. THE REAL GROWTH IN IMPORTS OF CONSUMER GOODS WAS REGISTERED CHIEFLY IN RADIOS, TELEVISION SETS, GRAMOPHONES, RECORDS AND TAPE RECORDERS (+ 70#), FOOTWEAR (♦ 51#), CLOTHING (+ 34#) AND SOAPS, CLEANSING AND POLISHING PREPARATIONS (♦ 27#). ON THE OTHER HAND, A SLIGHT DECREASE (- 3#) WAS REGISTERED IN THE DEMAND FOR HOUSEHOLD TYPE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT.
WITH THE EXCEPTION OF RAW COTTON WHICH DECLINED BY 12 PER CENT IN VOLUME IN 1979 LOCAL DEMAND FOR VARIOUS TYPES OF RAW MATERIALS CONTINUED TO RISE, PARTICULARLY FOR WOOD, LUMBER AND CORK (+ 38#), PLASTIC MOULDING MATERIALS (+ 31#), LEATHER AND DRESSED FUR SKINS (♦ 28#), AND BASE METALS EXCLUDING IRON AND STEEL (+ 25#). IMPORT PRICES FOR IRON AND STEEL WENT UP BY ABOUT 32 PER CENT IN 1979 AND PRICES FOR PLASTIC MOULDING MATERIALS, YARN OF MAN-MADE FIBRES, CHEMICAL ELEMENTS AND COMPOUNDS AS WELL AS WOOD, LUMBER AND CORK ALSO ROSE BY SOME 30 PER CENT.
AT 10 PER CENT, THE INCREASE IN PRICES OF IMPORTED CAPITAL GOODS WAS SLIGHT. CONSIDERABLE GROWTH RATES WERE NOTED IN THE VOLUME OF IMPORTS OF OFFICE MACHINES (+ 76#), TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT (+ 75#), AND ELECTRICAL MACHINERY ( + 40#).
/THS CHANGES .....
MONDAY, MARCH 17, 1980
3
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUES, UNIT VALUES, AND VOLUMES OF RE-EXPORTS CLASSIFIED BY END-USE ARE SHOWN AS FOLLOWS 1-
CHANGES IN 1979 OVER 1978
RE-EXPORT VALUES RE-EXPORT UNIT VALUES RE-EXPORT VOLUME
FOODSTUFFS ♦ 35% ♦ 15* ♦ 18*
CONSUMER GOODS + ^9% ♦ 20* * 25*
CAPITAL GOODS ♦ 62* ♦ 20* + 34*
RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES + 56* * 20* + 30*
FUELS + 15* ♦ 39* - 17*
ALL COMMODITIES + 52* ♦ 20* + 27*
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DPW OPENS SEMINAR ON PRESTRESSED CONSTRUCTION * ft * * *
THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS, MR DAVID MCDONALD, TODAY (MONDAY) OPENED THE T.Y. LIN SEMINAR ON +PRESTRESSING IN THE 80S* IN EXCELSIOR HOTEL, CAUSEWAY BAY.
THE THREE-DAY SEMINAR, SPONSORED JOINTLY BY THE READY-MIXED CONCRETE ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE AND THE CONCRETE SOCIETY (HK) LTD, WAS CALLED IN HONOUR OF PROFESSOR T.Y. LIN’S CONTRIBUTION TO THE ENGINEERING WORLD, IN PARTICULAR HIS WORK IN THE FIELD OF PRESTRESSING AND PRESTRESSED CONCRETE.
PROFESSOR LIN, AS A PRACTISING CONSULTING ENGINEER, HEADS THE T.Y. LIN INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATION WITH OFFICES IN THE UNITED STATES, HONG KONG, TAIWAN, SINGAPORE, BANGKOK, HAWAII AND SOUTH AMERICA.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, MR MCDONALD SAID IT GAVE HIM MUCH PLEASURE TO SEE, BY THE ATTENDANCE AT THE SEMINAR, +THE INTEREST WHICH EXISTS IN HONG KONG IN THE APPLICATION OF PRESTRESSING TO CONCRETE STRUCTURES*.
+HONG KONG IS NOWADAYS, WITH A FEW NOTABLE EXCEPTIONS, A REINFORCED CONCRETE CITY AND PRESTRESSING IS BY NO MEANS NEW TO IT,* HE SAID.
♦NEVERTHELESS, A SEMINAR SUCH AS THAT ON WHICH YOU ARE ABOUT TO EMBARK IS AN EXCELLENT MEANS OF HEARING OF, AND DISCUSSING, NEW METHODS AND APPLICATIONS OF PRESTRESSING WHICH HAVE BEEN USED WITH SUCCESS IN OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD.*
/MR MCDONALD ..
MONDAY, MARCH 17, 1980
4
MR MCDONALD SAID THE APPLICATION OF PRESTRESSING TECHNIQUES TO BUILDINGS, IN PARTICULAR, RENDERED IT POSSIBLE FOR SLENDER STRUCTURAL MEMBERS, CAPABLE OF BEING FORMED TO A VARIETY OF SHAPES AND PROFILES, BOTH STRAIGHT AND CURVED, TO SUPPORT HEAVY LOADS.
IN THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, HE SAID, SUCH TECHNIQUES HAD BEEN USED IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION, CITING THE ELLIPTICAL DOME OF THE PLANETARIUM AT TSIM SHA TSUI AND THE CANTILEVERED CONSTRUCTION OF THE BRITISH FORCES HEADQUARTERS BUILDING AT HMS TAMAR AS EXAMPLES.
MR MCDONALD STRESSEDt +IN THIS FIELD, WITH CLOSE CO-OPERATION BETWEEN ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS, THERE IS GREAT SCOPE FOR THE ACHIEVEMENT OF MORE IMAGINATIVE AND ADVENTUROUS ARCHITECTURE.*
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SHA TIN TO HAVE FIRST PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE SOON ft ft * * * *
SHA TIN WILL SOON HAVE ITS FIRST PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE WHICH WILL OPERATE IN THE DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD (DAB) OFFICE IN THE CENTRE OF LEK YUEN ESTATE.
THIS WAS DISCLOSED TODAY (MONDAY) BY SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, WHEN OPENING THE DISTRICT’S NEWEST LIBRARY, ALSO IN THE DAB OFFICE, ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF SAU CHUEN HOUSE.
MR AKERS-JONES SAID THE DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD OFFICE, OPENED JUST SIX MONTHS AGO, HAD PROVED POPULAR, BUT WAS CAPABLE OF HEAVIER USAGE.
♦THUS, THE ACTIVITIES OF THIS OFFICE ARE BEING EXPANDED TO bEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF SHA TIN RESIDENTS.*
THE NEW LIBRARY IS THE SIXTH IN THE NEW TOWN. COSTING $30 000, IT IS SPONSORED BY THE SHA TIN DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD TO COMPLEMENT SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE LOCAL PUBLIC LIBRARY AND FOUR SMALLER LIBRARIES RUN BY VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.
OCCUPYING AN AREA OF 56 SQUARE METRES (600 SQUARE FEET), IT IS KNOWN AS THE SHA TIN ARTS ASSOCIATION READING ROOM. THE ASSOCIATION IS BEING SET UP AS A PERMANENT BODY TO PROMOTE ARTS AND CULTURE IN SHA TIN.
MR AKERS-JONES SAID IT WOULD PROVIDE MUCH NEEDED STUDY FACILITIES DURING NON-SCHOOL HOURS.
APART FROM THE LIBRARY, THE NEW PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE WOULD SOON COMMENCE OPERATION.
/+ALSO, THE ..
MONDAY, MARCH 1?, 1980
5
♦ALSO, THE OFFICE WILL BE THE HEADQUARTERS OF THE SHA TIN ARTS ASSOCIATION AND THE SPORTS ASSOCIATION UNTIL SUCH TIME AS THEY HAVE THEIR OWN PERMANENT HEADQUARTERS,♦ HE SAID.
CONGRATULATING ALL CONCERNED FOR THEIR INITIATIVE AND FORESIGHT IN PROVIDING THE PROJECT, MR AKERS-JONES SAID HE HOPED THE EXCELLENT FACILITIES WOULD BE HEAVILY USED BY SHA TIN ORGANISATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS.
JOINING MR AKERS-JONES IN A RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY WERE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICER. MR GERRY HIGGINSON, MR WONG PO-MING, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD’S ARTS SUB-COMMITTEE, AND MR NG CHAN-LAM, CHAIRMAN OF THE SHA TIN ARTS ASSOCIATION.
THE BOARD HAS PURCHASED OVER 1 000 BOOKS AND PERIODICALS TO STOCK THE LIBRARY AND RECRUITED TWO PART-TIME SUPERVISORS TO RUN IT.
THE LIBRARY WILL BE OPEN FROM 5.30 PM TO 9.30 PM ON WEEKDAYS AND SATURDAYS AND FROM 9 AM TO 1 PM ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
IT WILL BE CLOSED ON NEW YEAR’S DAY, THE FIRST THREE DAYS OF THE LUNAR NEW YEAR, AND CHRISTMAS AND BOXING DAYS.
_ _ 0 - -
CIVIL AVIATION CHIEF LEAVES FOR PUBLIC HEARING IN LONDON
*****
THE. DIRECTOR OF CIVIL AVIATION, MR BRIAN KEEP LEFT FOR LONDON TONIGHT TO ATTEND A PUBLIC HEARING BY THE UNITED KINGDOM CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY CONCERNING AN APPLICATION BY THE BRITISH CALEDONIA AIRWAYS TO VARY A LICENCE WHICH IT HOLDS FOR FAR EAST SERVICES.
THE HEARING IS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN ON WEDNESDAY (MARCH 19) AND IS EXPECTED TO LAST THREE TO FOUR DAYS.
BRITISH CALEDONIA HAD APPLIED TO AMEND ITS LICENCE FOR THE FAR EAST TO INCLUDE HONG KONG AND MANILA IN ITS LONDON-BAHRAIN-SINGAPORE AIR-ROUTE.
MR TREVOR THORPE, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF CIVIL AVIATION WILL ACT AS DIRECTOR DURING MR KEEP’S ABSENCE.
- _ 0 - -
MONDAY, MARCH 17, 1980
6
PROPOSALS FOR ALTERATION OF VALUATION LISTS FOR 1980/81 *****
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) REMINDED RATEPAYERS THAT THE 21-DAY PERIOD FOR MAKING PROPOSALS FOR ALTERATION OF THE VALUATION LISTS FOR THE YEAR COMMENCING APRIL 1, 1980 EXPIRES ON MARCH 28.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID PROPOSALS RECEIVED AFTER THAT DAY WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
HE POINTED OUT THAT RATEABLE VALUES WILL NORMALLY NOT BE CHANGED FOR NEXT YEAR BUT THAT TENEMENTS IN CERTAIN NEW RATING AREAS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES WILL BE PAYING RATES FOR THE FIRST TIME NEXT MONTH.
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT THE RATEABLE VALUE OF HIS TENEMENT IS TOO HIGH OR WHO HAS ANY OTHER QUERY IN RELATION TO HIS RATING ASSESSMENT IS WELCOME TO CALL AT THE DEPARTMENT DURING THIS 21-DAY PERIOD TO DISCUSS THE MATTER WITH THE VALUER CONCERNED.
RATEPAYERS WISHING TO MAKE APPOINTMENTS WITH VALUERS ARE ADVISED TO TELEPHONE FIRST. FOR PROPERTIES ON HONG KONG ISLAND AND IN KOWLOON THE NUMBER TO CALL IS 5-281424, FOR THOSE IN NEW KOWLOON 5-284047, AND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES 5-284037.
-----o------
LEAFLET TO EXPLAIN JSEA SYSTEM *****
PARENTS OF STUDENTS CAN NOW LEARN MORE ABOUT THE JUNIOR SECONDARY EDUCATION ASSESSMENT (JSEA) SYSTEM BY READING A NEWLY PRODUCED BILINGUAL LEAFLET EXPLAINING THE INTERNAL ASSESSMENT, SCALING TEST AND PLACE ALLOCATION INVOLVED IN THE SYSTEM.
THE JSEA IS A CENTRALISED SYSTEM OF SELECTION AND ALLOCATION FOR FORM THREE LEAVERS WHO WISH TO CONTINUE THEIR EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR.
IT IS NOT A PUBLIC EXAMINATION, AND THE INTERNAL ASSESSMENT OF STUDENTS WILL BE THE BASIS FOR THE SELECTION AND ALLOCATION OF AIDED FORM FOUR PLACES.
THE FIRST SCALING TEST WILL BE HELD IN JANUARY/FEBRUARY NEXT YEAR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS TEST TO BE HELD ANNUALLY IS TO SCALE AND CONVERT INTERNAL ASSESSMENTS OF DIFFERENT SCHOOLS SO AS TO MAKE THEM COMPARABLE.
COPIES OF THE LEAFLET TO EXPLAIN THE SYSTEM ARE AVAILABLE AT ANY OF THE CITY DISTRICT OFFICES OR DISTRICT OFFICES- OR AT THE INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AT ROOM 3040, LEE GARDENS, THIRD FLOOR, HYSAN AVENUE, HONG KONG.
FURTHER INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED AT THE JUNIOR SECONDARY EDUCATION ASSESSMENT SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, TELEPHONE 5-276359.
------o------- /7.....
MONDAY, MARCH 17, 1980
7
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN KWAI CHUNG ******
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE INTRODUCED IN KWAI CHUNG FROM 10 AM ON WEDNESDAY (MARCH 19) TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW IN THE AREA.
UNDER THE NEW ARRANGEMENTS, EASTBOUND TRAFFIC ON KWAI ON ROAD WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM TURNING RIGHT'ONTO THE SOUTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF TAI LIN PAI ROAD WHILE WESTBOUND TRAFFIC WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM MAKING LEFT TURN ONTO THE SOUTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF KWAI CHUNG ROAD.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
- - o - -
WATER CUT * * *
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO ALL PREMISES IN KWAI CHUNG WILL BE TURNED OFF FOR 24 HOURS FROM 10 AM NEXT WEDNESDAY (MARCH 19) TO FACILITATE REPAIR TO A DEFECTIVE VALVE AT KWOK SHUI ROAD NEAR FU UK ROAD.
THE AREAS TO BE AFFECTED INCLUDE HA KWAI CHUNG, SHEUNG KWAI CHUNG AND KWAI CHUNG CONTAINER TERMINAL.
- 0 - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
REDOUBLED EFFORTS AGAINST COUNTERFEITERS ................ 1
LANTAU BUS FARES AND SCHEDULES REVISED .................. 2
BUILDING IN TSUEN WAN DECURED DANGEROUS ................. A
LABOUR DEPARTMENT ACTS AGAINST LAW BREAKERS ............. 4
GOODWILL VISIT BY UK CHINESE COMMUNITY .................. 5
MAJOR RAIL WORK IN KOwLOCN TONG..........................5
SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION TO CAREERS . SEMINARS ............. 6
POPULAR SCHOOL OUIZ FINALS .............................. 6
WATER CUT IN SHAM SHUI PO................................ 7
TUESDAY, MARCH 18, I960
1
REDOUBLED EFFORTS AGAINST COUNTERFEITERS ft * ft * ft
THE TRADE INVESTIGATION BRANCH OF THE TRADE. INDUSTRY AND CUSTOMS DEPARTMENT IS PLANNING TO DOUBLE THE SIZE OF ITS INVESTIGATION STAFF TO STEP UP EFFORTS AGAINST COUNTERFEIT GOODS.
ADDRESSING THE ROTARY CLUB OF PENINSULA TODAY (TUESDAY), « JOHN HOWARD, CHIEF INDUSTRY OFFICER, SAID HOWEVER THAT WHAT WAS REALLY REQUIRED WAS A GREATER PUBLIC AWARENESS OF SUCH MALPRACTICES.
♦I HOPE YOU. AS MEMBERS OF ROTARY, AMD DOUBTLESS INVOLVED IN VARIOUS COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES, WILL KEEP YOUR EYES AND EARS OPEN. IN NO WAY AM I ASKING YOU TO BE COMMON INFORMERS, BUT IT IS IMPORTANT THAT OUR TRADING REPUTATION SHOULD NOT BE TARNISHED BY A RELATIVELY FEW UNSCRUPULOUS TRADERS,* HE 8AID.
♦NO COMPLAINANT IS OBLIGED TO GIVE EVIDENCE BEFORE THE COURT SINCE PROFESSIONAL OFFICERS ARE TRAINED TO DO THIS WHERE COUNTERFEIT GOODS ARE FOUND,♦ HE ADDED.
MR HOWARD POINTED OUT THAT HONG KONG’S FREE AND OPEN MARKET SITUATION, AND THE DEMANDS OF INCREASINGLY AFFLUENT LOCAL CONSUMERS AND TOURISTS DID LEAVE SCOPE FOR UNSCRUPULOUS MERCHANTS TO PROFITEER IN FAKE PRODUCTS.
DURING 1979, 302 COMPLAINTS WERE INVESTIGATED BY THE BRANCH RESULTING IN THE SEIZURE OF COUNTERFEIT MERCHANDISE VALUED ON THI MARKET AT OVER f3.7 MILLION AND FINES OF S75A 000 WERE IMPOSED BY THE COURTS. A COUNTERFEIT WATCH MANUFACTURER WAS SENTENCED TO FOUR MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT. SO FAR THIS YEAR FINES OF *38 000 HAVE BEEN IMPOSED AND GOODS VALUED AT S97O 000 WERE SEIZED.
ON CONTROLLING LEGISLATION, MR HOWARD SAID THE EXISTING MERCHANDISE MARKS ORDINANCE PROVIDES PENALTIES UP TO S50 000 AND TWO YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT IN THE LOWER COURTS, AND UP TO 1100 000 AND FIVE YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT IN THE HIGHER COURTS, AND LATER THIS YEAR SHOULD SEE THE ENACTMENT OF A TRADE DESCRIPTION BILL.
♦THIS BILL WILL CLOSELY FOLLOW THE UK TRADE DESCRIPTIONS ACT, AS FAR AS ITS APPLICATION TO GOODS GOES. ONE ADVANTAGE WILL BE THAT A WARRANT WILL NO LONGER BE REQUIRED AS A PRE-REQUISITE TO THE SEARCH OF PREMISES,* HE ADDED.
DESCRIBING THE FORMS OF FALSE MARKING OF PRODUCTS, MR HOWARD SAID THE MOST COMMON WAS TO APPLY WELL-KNOWN INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES TO GOODS. ANOTHER WAS TO APPLY A FALSE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN TO
GOODS WHERE THAT COUNTRY MIGHT HAVE A REPUTATION FOR QUALITY IN FASHION, TREND AND CRAFTSMANSHIP.
♦IN SOME CASES THE FALSE MARKS ARE APPLIED TO LOCALLY MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS, WHILE OTHERS ARE IMPORTED, HAVING BEEN ORDERED BY LOCAL TRADERS WHO WELL KNOW THE GOODS ARE FAKE, BUT THE PRICE RIGHT. FASHIONWEAR HAS BECOME A PRIME TARGET FOR SUCH RACKETEERS, AND LEATHERWEAR, NECKTIES, SCARVES AND FASHION GARMENTS FIGURE PROMINENTLY IN THIS UNSCRUPULOUS COUNTERFEITING.
/♦OTHER MERCHANDISE.
TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 1980
2
♦OTHER MERCHANDISE. HIGH ON THE LIST OF FAKE PRODUCTS, ARE VARIOUS FORMS OF JEWELLERY, PRINCIPALLY GOLD, WHERE THE HALLMARK IS FALSELY REPRESENTED,♦ HE SAID.
PRECIOUS STONES ALSO FIGURE HIGHLY. MR HOWARD CITED A CASE PRESENTLY IN HAND WHERE ANALYSIS OF A RELATIVELY EXPENSIVE ARTICLE, PURCHASED BY A TOURIST, REPRESENTED TO BE A PRECIOUS STONE, WAS FOUND TO BE GLASS.
OTHER GOODS WHICH ARE FAKED ARE PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS, DETERGENT POWDERS, WATCHES, PRE-PACKED RICE AND BREAKFAST CEREALS.
THE TRADE INVESTIGATION BRANCH WORKS CLOSELY WITH THE CONSUMER COUNCIL AND THE HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION IN FOLLOWING UP COMPLAINTS RECEIVED BY THESE BODIES. THE BRANCH ALSO WORKS CLOSELY WITH VARIOUS OVERSEAS TRADE COMMISSIONS AND OWNERS OF INTERNATIONALLY-KNOWN TRADE MARKS.
♦THERE IS, FOR EXAMPLE, EXCELLENT CO-OPERATION WITH MEMBERS OF BOTH THE SWISS AND JAPANESE WATCH INDUSTRIES, WHICH HAS GONE A LONG WAY TOWARDS STEMMING THE FLOW OF COUNTERFEIT WATCHES MANUFACTURED LOCALLY. INDEED, A REWARD SYSTEM HAS BEEN SET UP BETWEEN THESE INDUSTRIES AND THE GOVERNMENT IN AN ATTEMPT TO ENCOURAGE INFORMANTS TO COME FORWARD,♦ MR HOWARD SAID.
0 - -
LANTAU BUS FARES AND SCHEDULES REVISED « * M *
THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL TODAY APPROVED AN APPLICATION FOR FARE INCREASES BY THE NEW LANTAU BUS CO. THE INCREASES, WHICH OVERALL AVERAGE 33 PER CENT ON WEEKDAYS AND 45 PER CENT ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS WILL COME INTO EFFECT ON APRIL 1.
OF TWO MUI WO OF THE
IN COMING TO THEIR DECISION THE COUNCIL TOOK INTO ACCOUNT RISING OPERATING COSTS INCLUDING INCREASES IN FUEL PRICE, WAGES AND MAINTENANCE COSTS. IT ALSO NOTED THE COMPANY’S RECENT PURCHASE DOUBLE DECKER BUSES AND ITS PLANS TO BUILD A NEW DEPOT AT AND TO INSTALL MORE BUS SHELTERS ALONG ITS ROUTES. AS PART PACKAGE, SERVICES WILL BE IMPROVED ON ALL ROUTES.
A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE OPPORTUNITY ^?!!MAKEN T0 RATIONALIZE THE SCALE OF FARES, WHICH IS NOW RfJrATED T0 DISTANCE, AND TO INTRODUCE ADDITIONAL FARE STAGES. THIS HAS RESULTED IN SOME FARES BEING INCREASED ABOVE THE AVERAGE AND SOME BEING REDUCED, WHILE OTHERS REMAIN UNCHANGED.
SOME NEW ROUTES HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED TO GIVE LOCAL VILLAGERS A BETTER AND MORE FREQUENT SERVICE.
/EXAMPLES OF
TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 1980
- 3 -
EXAMPLES OF THE NEW FARES ON THE MOST POPULAR ROUTES AREi ROUTE 1 - MUI WO TO TAI 0
WEEKDAYS! OLD FARE *2- NEW <3
SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS! OLD FARE S3- NEW $4.50
ROUTE 2 - MUI WO TO NGONG PING
WEEKDAYS! OLD FARE S3- NEW $4
SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS! OLD FARE SA- NEW |6
ROUTE 3 - MUI WO TO TUNG CHUNG
WEEKDAYS! OLD FARE S2- NEW S2.50
SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS: OLD FARE S3- NEW SA
ROUTE A - MUI WO TO CHEUNG SHA BEACH
WEEKDAYS: OLD FARE Si- NEW Si.50
SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS: OLD FARE SI.50- NEW S2.5O
THE FREQUENCY OF SERVICES WILL ALSO BE INCREASED. ON WEEKDAYS, 36 VEHICLES WILL BE SCHEDULED INSTEAD OF THE PRESENT 18 AND, ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS, A8 WILL BE SCHEDULED INSTEAD OF 3A.
FOR EXAMPLE, ON ROUTE 1 THERE WILL BE THREE TRIPS AN HOUR INSTEAD OF THE PRESENT HOURLY SERVICE DURING WEEKDAY PEAK PERIODS AND ON ROUTE 2, TWO TRIPS AN HOUR INSTEAD OF ONE ON WEEKDAYS. ON THIS ROUTE ON WEEKENDS IN WINTER THEY WILL RUN AT 20 MINUTE INTERVALS INSTEAD OF ONCE AN HOUR AND IN SUMMER, 10 MINUTES INSTEAD OF 20 MINUTES. ON ROUTE 3 THERE WILL BE 12 TRIPS INSTEAD OF NINE TRIPS PER DAY SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. ROUTE 4 WILL BE OPERATED BY DOUBLE DECK BUSES AND WILL BE EXTENDED TO TONG FUK. DURING THE SUMMER, SPECIAL BUSES WILL RUN TO CHEUNG SHA BEACH EVERY 15 MINUTES.
-------0 - - - -
/4
TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 1980
4
BUILDING IN TSUEN WAN DECLARED DANGEROUS * * * *
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY TODAY (TUESDAY) DECLARED AN EIGHT-STOREY INDUSTRIAL BUILDING AT 126-140, TEXACO ROAD IN TSUEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES LIABLE TO BECOME DANGEROUS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE BUILDING AUTHORITY SAID THE BUILDING WAS INTENSIVELY INVESTIGATED AFTER SHEAR CRACKS HAD BEEN FOUND IN THE REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS.
THE INVESTIGATION, HE SAID, INVOLVED THE EXTRACTION OF SAMPLES FROM THE REINFORCED CONCRETE STRUCTURE FOR TESTING AND ANALYSIS OF THE CONSTITUENTS OF THE CONCRETE.
♦THE RESULT OF THE INVESTIGATION HAS REVEALED THAT THIS BUILDING IS CONSIDERABLY SUB-STANDARD IN ITS CONSTRUCTION.
♦A HIGH PROPORTION OF THE CONCRETE SAMPLES HAVE BEEN FOUND NOT TO HAVE THE REQUIRED CRUSHING STRENGTH AND DEFICIENCIES IN CEMENT CONTENT WERE ALSO FOUND BY ANALYSIS,+ HE SAID.
AS THERE IS A POSSIBILITY OF STRUCTURAL FAILURE LEADING TO COLLAPSE IT IS NECESSARY TO CLOSE THIS BUILDING, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER IN KOWLOON DISTRICT COURT AT 9.30 AM ON JUNE 18 WAS POSTED TODAY.
------0-------
LABOUR DEPARTMENT ACTS AGAINST LAW BREAKERS *****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT LAST MONTH PROSECUTED 561 CASES AGAINST PROPRIETORS OF INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENTS FOR BREACHES OF THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ORDINANCE AND REGULATIONS, THE WORKMEN'S COMPENSATION ORDINANCE AND THE BOILERS AND PRESSURE RECEIVERS ORDINANCE.
OF THESE CASES TAKEN OUT BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S PROSECUTIONS UNIT, 543 RESULTED IN CONVICTIONS, AND FINES IMPOSED BY THE COURTS TOTALLED MORE THAN 1310 000.
OFFENCES CONCERNING THE EMPLOYMENT OF WOMEN AND YOUNG PERSONS ACCOUNTED FOR 288 OF THE SUMMONSES. THESE RESULTED IN 275 CONVICTIONS WITH FINES TOTALLING MORE THAN *114 000.
BREACHES OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY REGULATIONS PRODUCED 266 SUMMONSES WITH 265 CONVICTIONS. FINES TOTALLED MORE THAN *194 000.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT SAID THAT MOST OF THE CONVICTIONS WERE THE RESULT OF ACTION INITIATED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S FACTORY INSPECTORATE AND LABOUR INSPECTORATE.
HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT EXISTING LEGISLATION SAFEGUARDED EMPLOYEES AT WORK AND PROTECTED THE WELFARE OF WOMEN AND YOUNG WORKERS.
HOWEVER, IT TOOK MORE THAN LEGISLATION TO STAMP OUT OFFENCES IN INDUSTRY AND CO-OPERATION WAS NEEDED FROM ALL CONCERNED TO IMPROVE THE SITUATION, HE SAID.
------o ------ /5 .....................
TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 1980
5
GOODWILL VISIT BY UK CHINESE COMMUNITY ******
THE WINNER OF THE 1980 MISS CHINA TOWN GREAT BRITAIN COMPETITION, MISS CEZAR INE LEE WAI-YAN, WILL ARRIVE IN HONG KONG TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) FOR A TWO WEEK HOLIDAY AS PART OF HER PRIZE.
MISS LEE WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY SEVEN SENIOR OFFICIALS FROM THE MIDLANDS CHINESE ASSOCIATION, BASED IN BIRMINGHAM, WHO ORGANISED THE COMPETITION.
DURING HER STAY IN HONG KONG, MISS LEE WILL CALL ON THE CHAIRMAN OF THE NEW TERRITORIES HEUNG YEE KUK, MR STEPHEN WONG. WHEN SHE WILL ALSO MEET THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL, MR A. DE 0. SALES-THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR J.M. RIDDELL-SWAN-AND OTHER LOCAL DIGNITARIES.
ONE PURPOSE OF BOTH THE COMPETITION AND THE VISIT IS TO FOSTER CLOSER TIES BETWEEN HONG KONG AND THE CHINESE COMMUNITY IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.
NOTE TO EDITORS*
ON HER ARRIVAL AT KAI TAK, MISS LEE WILL HOLD A PRESS CONFERENCE WHICH MEMBERS OF YOUR STAFF ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND.
THEY SHOULD BE IN THE AIRPORT GROUND FLOOR PRESS ROOM BY 5 PM (BA 021 ON WHICH MISS LEE IS TRAVELLING IS DUE TO LAND AT 4.45 PM). Ml DONALD STRANGE OF THE NTA INFORMATION UNIT WILL BE PRESENT TO ASSIST THE MEDIA.
------0-------
MAJOR RAIL WORK IN KOWLOON TONG * * * *
THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY WILL BE CARRYING OUT MAJOR RAIL ALIGNMENT WORK BETWEEN SURREY LANE AND BEACON HILL TUNNEL IN KOWLOON TONG STARTING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
THE WORK WHICH INVOLVES SLEWING A SECTION OF THE TRACK A TEMPORARY ALIGNMENT TO ENABLE THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW TONG STATION WILL TAKE SEVERAL DAYS TO COMPLETE.
ONTO KOWLOON
PERMIT
A KCR SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT A NIGHT WORK HAD BEEN GIVEN TO CARRY OUT SOME OF THE WORK AT NIGHT AND DURING THE EARLY HOURS OF THE MORNING, ESPECIALLY ON WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, SO AS TO AVOID HAVING TO SUSPEND NORMAL PASSENGER AND FREIGHT TRAFFIC.
HE EMPHASISED THAT THE NOISE LEVEL WILL BE KEPT DOWN TO THE ABSOLUTE MINIMUM. HE ALSO STRESSED THAT THE PLANT AND EQUIPMENT TO BE USED ON SITE WILL BE SOUND-INSULATED AND MUFFLED AS FAR AS POSSIBLE.
♦THIS IS TO KEEP DOWN THE NOISE DISTURBANCE FOR THOSE LIVING NEAR THAT SECTION OF THE RA ILWAY,♦ HE SAID.
TUESDAY, MARCH lb, iy»U
6
SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION TO CAREERS SEMINARS
»#****
NEARLY 9 OOO STUDENTS ATTENDED A SERIES OF 13 CAREERS SEMINARS ORGANISED RECENTLY BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S YOUTH EMPLOYMENT ADVISORY SERVICE AT VARIOUS SECONDARY SCHOOLS THROUGHOUT HONG KONG.
THE FINAL SEMINAR, HELD TODAY (TUESDAY) AT KUNG LEE COLLEGE IN TAI HANG, ATTRACTED MORE THAN 500 STUDENTS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID, ^RESPONSE TO THE SEMINARS BY THE STUDENTS WAS ENCOURAGING AND EVERY SEMINAR WAS WELL ATTENDED.
♦WE ARE CERTAIN THAT THE SEMINARS HAVE PROVIDED THEM WITH FIRST-HAND INFORMATION ON THE WIDEST RANGE OF CAREERS AND HELPED THEM MAKE A DECISION ON A CAREER BEST SUITED TO THEIR INTERESTS AND ABILITIES.*
AT TODAY’S SEMINAR, THE STUDENTS HEARD TALKS GIVEN BY EXPERTS ON SOCIAL AND YOUTH AND COMMUNITY WORK, LIBRARY WORK AND THE DENTAL PROFESSION. THEY ALSO SAW SLIDES ON ACCOUNTANCY, SOCIAL WORK AND THE WORK OF ASSISTANT IMMIGRATION OFFICERS AND FACTORY INSPECTORS.
POPULAR SCHOOL QUIZ FINALS X * If *
THE WINNER OF THE TELEVISION QUIZ SHOW +COMMUNITY YOUTH CHALLENGE* IS TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS WONG FUNG LING COLLEGE.
THE SECOND PRIZE GOES TO SHENG KUNG HUI LUI MING CHOI SECONDARY THE°CONTESTLE H0H6 K0N8 AND K0WL00N CH,U CH0W SCH00L CAME THIRD «N
THE PRE-RECORDED MATCH BETWEEN THE THREE SCHOOLS WILL BE SCREENED THIS EVENING AT 5.30 PM ON HK-TVB JADE AND ON RTV 1 AT 6 PM ON SUNDAY (MARCH 23).
THE WINNING TEAM WON BOOK COUPONS WORTH Si 200. THE SECOND PRIZE WAS $960 AND THE THIRD PRIZE $600 ALSO IN BOOK COUPONS. EACH TEAM ALSO RECEIVED A TROPHY.
MR R. M. CAMERON, ASSISTANT INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS)- MR STUART BROADCASTING- AND MR H. LIANG OF THE PRIZES TO THE WINNERS DURING
DIRECTOR OF WILKINSON,
EDUCATION (CHIEF DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF
LIONS CLUB INTERNATIONAL PRESENTED THE PROGRAMME.
THE SHOW WAS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND THE EDUCATION TELEVISION SECTION OF RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG.
MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUBS FROM 21 SCHOOLS TOOK PART IN THE CONTEST WHICH LASTED 10 WEEKS.
OBERLIN COLLEGE WON FIRST PRIZE AS THE BEST CHEERING TEAMWHILE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON CHIU CHOW SCHOOL CAME SECOND AND BUDDHIST TAI KWONG MIDDLE SCHOOL CAME THIRD.
TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 1980
7
WATER CUT IN SHAM SHU I PO ft * ft ft
WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF PREMISES IN SHAM SHU I PO WILL BE TURNED OFF FOR SEVEN HOURS FROM 11 PM ON THURSDAY (MARCH 20) TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE A NIGHT LEAKAGE TEST.
THE AREAS TO BE AFFECTED ARE PO ON ROAD, CHEUNG FAT STREET, KWONG LEE ROAD, PRATAS STREET, FAT TSEUNG STREET AND BLOCK NOS. >8 AND 16-19 OF LI CHENG UK ESTATE.
--------0 ---------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 1980
CONT,.NTS PAGE NO.
NTA ANNOUNCES BIG INCREASE IN LAND SALES PROGRAMME .........................................
CROPS UNDER NETS SWSERED HAILSTORM ................. 2
MORE STATISTICAL PUBLICATIONS BECOMING AVAILABLE .... 3
APPR^’TIC AS GRADUATE FROM WORK SAFETY COURSE........ 4
CONTRACT SIGNED FOR $8 MILLION TRUNK SEWER .......... 5
NARCOTICS EXPERT VISITS LOC..L P.3NAL INSTITUTIONS....6
NORWAY CONTINUES ACTION GN TEXTILE IMPORTS ...........6
SQCTNAR ON APPRECIATION OF CHINESJ MUSIC ............ 7
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON UK ISLAND ................... 7
RECREATION. AND SPORT. COUNCIL SUB-COMMITTEES RETITLBD ............................................ 8
ABERDEEN FACTORIES FIRE SAFETY INSPECTION ........... 8
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 1980
1
NTA ANNOUNCES BIG INCREASE IN LAND SALES PROGRAMME * * * *
THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) IT PLANS A BIG INCREASE IN THE AMOUNT OF LAND TO BE PUT ON THE MARKET IN THE SIX MONTHS PERIOD BEGINNING APRIL 1.
AN NTA SPOKESMAN SAID 38 SITES TOTALLING MORE THAN 20 HECTARES IN AREA WOULD BE OFFERED FOR SALE BY AUCTION, BY TENDER TO HOLDERS OF LAND EXCHANGE ENTITLEMENTS AND BY CASH TENDER.
HE SAID IN THE PREVIOUS SIX MONTHS - SEPTEMBER, 1979 TO MARCH, 1980 - THE AMOUNT OF LAND PUT ON THE MARKET WAS JUST OVER 14 HECTARES.
THE LAND TO BE MARKETED IN THE NEXT SIX MONTHS WILL BE FOR RESIDENTIAL, NON-INDUSTRIAL, INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL AND COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES.
IT TOTALS 202 492.7 SQUARE METRES.
SIXTEEN OF THE SITES ARE IN SHA TIN, INCLUDING THE LARGEST, MEASURING 26 219 SQUARE METRES, WHICH IS EARMARKED FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT INCLUDING A BUS TERMINUS.
TUEN MUN, SAI KUNG AND YUEN LONG WILL EACH PROVIDE SIX SITES AND THE REMAINING SITES ARE AT CHEUNG CHAU, LANTAU, TSUEN WAN AND TSI NG Yl.
TWO AUCTIONS ARE PLANNED TO TAKE PLACE IN JUNE AND AUGUST. IN JUNE, FOUR SITES TOTALLING 14 370 SQUARE METRES IN AREA WILL BE OFFERED. THE LARGEST, MEASURING 11 700 SQUARE METRES, IS AT CHEUNG SHA, SOUTH LANTAU, AND IS FOR RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES. TWO RESIDENTIAL SITES - ONE ON CHEUNG CHAU (910 SQUARE METRES) AND ONE IN SHA TIN (680 SQUARE METRES) - AND A 1 080 SQUARE METRES INDUSTRIAL SITE IN TUEN MUN WILL ALSO BE SOLD AT THIS AUCTION.
IN AUGUST, SIX SITES MEASURING IN TOTAL 15 562 SQUARE METRES ARE TO BE AUCTIONED. ONE IS A COMMERCIAL SITE OVER A BUS TERMINUS IN TSUEN WAN MEASURING 3 400 SQUARE METRES. TWO ARE IN SHA TIN, ONE MEASURING 2 192 SQUARE METRES FOR COMMERCIAL/RESI DENT I AL DEVELOPMENT AND ANOTHER MEASURING 2 485 SQUARE METRES FOR INDUSTRIAL PURPOSES. THE REMAINING THREE SITES, IN SAI KUNG, ARE FOR INDUSTRIAL USAGE. THEY TOTAL 7 485 SQUARE METRES IN AREA.
HOLDERS OF LAND EXCHANGE ENTITLEMENTS WILL BE ABLE TO TENDER FOR 27 SITES TOTALLING 170 820.7 SQUARE METRES IN AREA. THE TENDERS ARE DUE TO TAKE PLACE ON MAY 23, JULY 18, AND SEPTEMBER 19
IN MAY, FIVE SITES MEASURING 25 456 SQUARE METRES, OF WHICH THREE ARE RESIDENTIAL, WILL BE TENDERED.
FOUR OF THE SITES - TWO RESIDENTIAL AND TWO INDUSTRIAL -ARE IN SHA TIN AND THE REMAINING SITE, FOR RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES, IS IN TUEN MUN. THE RESIDENTIAL SITES MEASURE 16 139 SQUARE METRES AND THE INDUSTRIAL SITES 9 317 SQUARE METRES.
/IN JULY......
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1?,
2 -
IN JULY, THE NUMBER OF SITES FOR TENDERING IS 12, WHICH TOTAL 73 129.7 SQUARE METRES. TWO OF THE SITES ARE INDUSTRIAL (11 807 SQUARE METRES), EIGHT ARE RESIDENTIAL (51 827 SQUARE METRES) AND TWO ARE NON-1NDUSTRI AL (9 495 SQUARE METRES). THE SITES ARE ON TSING Yl ISLAND (ONE), SAI KUNG (ONE), SHA TIN (FIVE), TUEN MUN (TWO) AND YUEN LONG (THREE). THE TWO TUEN MUN SITES ARE IN CONNECTION WITH THE TOWN CENTRE AND ARE FOR NON-1NDUSTRI AL DEVELOPMENT.
IN SEPTEMBER TEN SITES TOTALLING 72 235 SQUARE METRES IN AREA WILL BE OFFERED.
TWO, TOGETHER MEASURING 9 770 SQUARE METRES, ARE IN SAI KUNG FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT- FOUR MEASURING 56 515 SQUARE METRES ARE IN SHA TIN FOR RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL, INDUSTRIAL OR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT, ONE IN TUEN MUN MEASURING 1 600 SQUARE METRES IS FOR INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT-AND THREE MEASURING 4 350 SQUARE METRES ARE IN YUEN LONG FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT.
A SITE IN TUEN MUN TO BE DISPOSED OF BY CASH TENDER IN AUGUST MEASURES 1 740 SQUARE METRES AND IS FOR A DANGEROUS GOODS STORE.
SUMMARISING THE INTENDED SALES PROGRAMME, THE NTA SPOKESMAN SAID 20 SITES WERE RESIDENTIAL MEASURING 118 626.7 SQUARE METRES-11 WERE INDUSTRIAL, MEASURING 36 834 SQUARE METRES- TWO WERE COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL, MEASURING 6 178 SQUARE METRES- TWO WERE COMMERCIAL, MEASURING 29 619 SQUARE METRES- AND TWO WERE NON-1NDUSTRI AL, MEASURING 9 495 SQUARE METRES. THE REMAINING SITE WAS FOR THE DANGEROUS GOODS STORE IN TUEN MUN.
HE STRESSED THAT THE PROGRAMME WAS PROVISIONAL AND COULD BE CHANGED.
CROPS UNDER NETS WEATHERED HAILSTORM
* * * *
THE USE OF PLASTIC NET-HOUSES TO PROTECT CROPS IN ADVERSE WEATHER, INITIATED BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT THREE YEARS AGO, PROVED VALUABLE ONCE AGAIN DURING THE RECENT HAILSTORM IN SOME PARTS OF HONG KONG.
THE HAILSTORM ON MARCH 5 DESTROYED ABOUT 85 PER CENT OF THE CROPS IN SAP PAT HEUNG BUT VEGETABLES GROWING IN NET-HOUSES IN THESE AREAS WERE NOT AFFECTED AND WERE FURTHER PROTECTED FROM DAMAGE CAUSED BY THE HEAVY RAIN THE FOLLOWING MORNING.
MISS VERA SO, ACTING SENIOR AGRICULTURAL OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT’S CROP DIVISION SAID THE PLASTIC NET-HOUSE TECHNIQUE WAS INTRODUCED IN HONG KONG IN 1977 AFTER SERVERAL YEARS OF EXTENSIVE RESEARCH AND EXPERIMENTATION IN BOTH THE DEPARTMENT’S FARMS AND LOCAL FIELDS.
/the key.-ous:
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 1980
THE NET-HOUSE IS PRIMARILY BUILT FOR PROTECTION OF CROPS UNDER UNFAVOURABLE WEATHER CONDITIONS SUCH AS RAINSTORM, TROPICAL STORM, FROST AND NOW HAILSTORM. OTHER USES INCLUDE SCREENING OF BIRDS, CERTAIN INSECT PESTS AND INSECT-BORNE DISEASES.
MISS SO ADDED THAT THE STRUCTURE WAS DESIGNED IN SUCH A WAY THAT IT WAS SIMPLE TO BUILD AND AT THE SAME TIME COULD WITHSTAND CONSIDERABLE WIND SPEEDS.
COULD VARY ACCORDING TO THE NEED AND
THE SIZE OF NET-HOUSES ______
USE OF THE INDIVIDUAL FARMERS. THE MOST ECONOMICAL SIZE WOULD BE ONE DAU CHUNG (ABOUT 674 SQ. METRES)- THE COST FOR MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION OF SUCH A NET-HOUSE BEING ABOUT $12 OOO. SMALLER SIZES (ABOUT 93 SQ. METRES) ARE CHEAPER AND SPECIALLY GOOD FOR PROTECTING DELICATE SEEDLINGS WHILE LARGER ONES COULD ALSO BE USED FOR PROTECTING MATURE CROPS UNTIL THEY ARE GOOD FOR HARVEST.
MISS SO HOPED THAT THE LOWER BUILDING COST OF THE SMALLER UNITS (ABOUT $2.000 FOR 93 SQ. METRES) WOULD ATTRACT MORE FARMERS TO ADOPT THE USE OF NET-HOUSES FOR PROTECTION OF THEIR CROPS. SUCH A UNIT IS MOUNTED IN SHEUNG SHU I GOVERNMENT FARM AND FARMERS ARE WELCOME TO INSPECT THE STRUCTURE.
THE NET-HOUSE TECHNIQUE IS ALREADY ADOPTED BY SEVERAL FARMERS IN THE NORTH-WESTERN PART OF THE NEW TERRITORIES, IN SAN TIN, KAM TIN AND SAP PAT HEUNG. LAST YEAR, $25 000 IN DEVELOPMENT GRANTS FROM THE VEGETABLE MARKETING ORGANISATION WERE GIVEN TO FARMERS FOR THIS IMPROVEMENT IN THEIR FIELDS. FURTHER GRANTS WILL BE GIVEN TO THOSE WHO WISH TO CONSTRUCT THEIR OWN NET-HOUSES.
MISS SO URGED FARMERS TO WHICH PROTECTS CROPS FROM BAD INCOME. +BUILD NOW BEFORE THE
MAKE MORE USE OF THE EQUIPMENT WEATHER AND SAFEGUARDS FARM STORMS COME,* SHE TOLD THEM.
0
MORE STATISTICAL PUBLICATIONS BECOMING AVAILABLE *****
THREE STATISTICAL PUBLICATIONS WERE PUT ON SALE BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY. THEY ARE +CONSUMER PRICE INDEX, JANUARY 1980+, +HONG KONG ECONOMIC TRENDS, JANUARY 1980+ AND +AN OUTLINE OF STATISTICAL DEVELOPMENT 1980+.
ELEVEN MORE OFFSET PRINTED PUBLICATIONS COMPILED BY THE DEPARTMENT WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
THE MONTHLY CONSUMER PRICE INDEX REPORT GIVES AN ACCOUNT OF THE MOVEMENTS OF BOTH THE CP I(A) AND CPI B) FOR JANUARY
THE PREVI0US MONTH. IT INCLUDES SIX TABLES AND IWU GRAPHS*
THE +HONG KONG ECONOMIC TRENDS* CONTAINS A SUMMARY OF THE KEY ECONOMIC STATISTICS CONCERNING EXTERNAL TRADE, BANKING AND FINANCE. PRODUCTION, TRANSPORT, CONSUMER PRICE INDEX AND TOURISM PERCENTAGE CHANGES OVER THE PREVIOUS 12 MONTHS ARE ALSO SHOwS
AAN OUTLINE ...
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 1°8O
♦AN OUTLINE OF STATISTICAL DEVELOPMENT* PROVIDES IN SUMMARY FORM A REPORT ON THE GOVERNMENT STATISTICAL ORGANISATION, AS WELL AS THE MAIN LINES OF PRESENT STATISTICAL ACTIVITY AND FORESEEN DEVELOPMENT IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
THESE THREE REPORTS ARE AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH AT $2, Si AND $4 RESPECTIVELY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE.
THE PUBLICATIONS SOON TO BECOME AVAILABLE AREi
1. HONG KONG'S ECONOMIC PROSPECTS 1980 (BIANNUAL)
2. HONG KONG TRADE STATISTICS SUMMARY (MONTHLY)
3. MONTHLY SURVEY OF EMPLOYMENT, PAYROLL AND ORDERS-ON-HAND (MONTHLY)
4. HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE (MONTHLY)
5. QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY REPORT (QUARTERLY)
6. TEXTILE PRODUCTION STATISTICS (QUARTERLY)
7. LABOUR FORCE SURVEY (BIANNUAL)
8. STATISTICS OF ESTABLISHMENTS AND EMPLOYMENT (QUARTERLY)
9. WAGE STATISTICS REPORT (BIANNUAL)
10. EMPLOYMENT, WAGES AND MATERIAL PRICES IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY (QUARTERLY)
11. CENSUS OF INDUSTRY REPORT (ANNUAL)
ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THESE REPORTS MAY BE MADE BY TELEPHONE TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT AT 5-452692.
-----0------
APPRENTICES GRADUATE FROM WORK SAFETY COURSE *****
PROPRIETORS OF LOCAL CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES AND FACTORIES WERE URGED TODAY TO MAKE FULL USE OF THE FREE SERVICES OFFERED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE.
THE PLEA WAS MADE BY THE ACTING COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR J.C.A. HAMMOND, WHEN HE PRESENTED CERTIFICATES TO ONE FOREMAN AND 39 APPRENTICES OF THE HSIN CHONG CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LTD, WHO HAVE COMPLETED A CONSTRUCTION SAFETY TRAINING COURSE OFFERED BY THE CENTRE.
THE PRESENTATION WAS HELD AT THE CENTRE LOCATED IN THE CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES.
/MR HAMMCN'D ......
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 1980
5
MR HAMMOND PRAISED HSIN CHONS COMPANY FOR ITS CONCERN ABOUT INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND ITS INITIATIVE IN REQUESTING THE CENTRE TO ORGANISE THE TRAINING COURSE FOR ITS EMPLOYEES.
♦ I SINCERELY HOPE OTHER CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES AND FACTORY MANAGEMENTS WILL FOLLOW HSIN CHONG’S EXAMPLE AND ENCOURAGE AND RELEASE THEIR EMPLOYEES TO ATTEND THE SAFETY TRAINING COURSES OFFERED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT,♦ SAID MR HAMMOND.
HE STRESSED THAT HIS DEPARTMENT WAS DETERMINED TO DO ITS BEST TO IMPROVE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND TO ENFORCE SAFETY LEGISLATION.
♦ BUT IF THE RATE OF INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS IS TO BE REDUCED, EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES MUST ALSO PLAY THEIR PARTS.
♦THE EMPLOYERS MUST PROVIDE A SAFE WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND INSTRUCT THEIR EMPLOYEES IN SAFE PRACTICES, WHILE THE WORKERS MUST ABIDE BY THE SAFETY RULES AND USE THE SAFETY EQUIPMENT PROVIDED FOR THEM,+ MR HAMMOND SAID.
AT THE CEREMONY, HSIN CHONG’S CHAIRMAN, MR GODFREY K.N. YEH, THANKED THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT FOR ITS ASSISTANCE AND PRESENTED if WITH A PLAQUE AS A SOUVENIR WHICH WAS ACCEPTED BY MR HAMMOND.
0
CONTRACT SIGNED FOR $8 MILLION TRUNK SEWER
CONSTRUCTION OF A TRUNK SEWER TO SERVE THE FAST DEVELOPING SHEK WU HUI AREA IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WILL BEGIN NEXT WEEK.
A CONTRACT FOR THE WORK, COST JUST OVER $8 MILLION, WAS AWARDED TO WING FAI CONSTRUCtlON COMPANY BY THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT TODAY.
THE CONTRACT WAS OFFICIALLY SIGNED THIS MORNING BY MR GEORGE CHIEN. CHIEF ENGINEER OF THE TAI PO AND FANLING DEVELOPMENT OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CONTRACTOR, MR CHOW MOON AND MR HUI HAU-FAI.
MR CHIEN SAID THE CONTRACT WOULD INVOLVE THE LAYING OF 950 METRES OF TRUNK SEWER BETWEEN THE NEW SHEK WU HUI SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT AND THE PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE UNDER CONSTRUCTION AT THE RAILWAY STATION.
SOUTHERN END OF SHEUNG SHU I
THE WORK FORMS PART OF THE NEW SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT UNDER CONSTRUCTION.
SEWAGE WILL BE BROUGHT TO THE PLANT FOR TREATMENT THROUGH THIS TRUNK SEWER FROM THE PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE WHICH WILL HOUSE 30 000 PEOPLE.
WORK ON THE PROJECT WILL TAKE ABOUT 12 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
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/6
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 198©
6
NARCOTICS EXPERT VISITS LOCAL PENAL INSTITUTIONS * * X *
THE SENIOR SCIENTIFIC ADVISER TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND WELFARE IN CANADA, DR DON SMITH, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) VISITED TAI LAM ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRE, TAI LAM CENTRE FOR WOMEN AND SIU LAM PSYCHIATRIC CENTRE — THREE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PENAL INSTITUTION ADMINISTERED BY THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT IN HONG KONG.
DR SMITH, WHO IS CURRENTLY IN HONG KONG ON A FAMILIARISATION VISIT, WAS CHAIRMAN OF THE UNITED NATIONS COMMISSION OF NARCOTIC DRUGS IN 1979.
HE TOURED THE CENTRES AND WAS BRIEFED ON THE PROGRAMMES FACILITIES PROVIDED IN THEM BY THE SUPERINTENDENTS IN CHARGE MEDICAL OFFICERS.
AND AND
EARLIER TODAY, DR SMITH HAD TALKS WITH THE COMMISSIONER OF PRISONS, MR T.G. GARNER ON THE TREATMENT OF OFFENDERS. HE WAS PARTICULARLY INTERESTED IN THE REHABILITATION PROGRAMMES AND VARIOUS SUPPORTING SERVICES PROVIDED FOR CONVICTED DRUG ADDICTS.
--------o --------
NORWAY CONTINUES ACTION ON TEXTILE IMPORTS *****
THE REPORT OF A GATT PANEL INVESTIGATING A COMPLAINT BY HONG KONG OF ACTION BY NORWAY ON IMPORTS OF TEXTILES IS EXPECTED TO BE CONSIDERED AT THE MAY MEETING OF THE GATT COUNCIL.
DESPITE THIS, NORWAY HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT IT IS CONTINUING ITS ACTION FOR A FURTHER SIX MONTHS - TO THE END OF 1980 - AND WILL ISSUE QUOTAS FOR THAT PERIOD TO NORWEGIAN IMPORTERS ON APRIL 1.
♦ IT IS REGRETTABLE THAT NORWAY HAS DECIDED TO EXTEND ITS CURRENT ACTION FOR YET ANOTHER PERIOD,♦ SAID THE ACTING DIRECTOR CF TRADE, INDUSTRY AND CUSTOMS, MR PETER TSAO TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IT WAS IN JULY, 1978 THAT NORWAY ANNOUNCED THAT, UNDER ARTICLE XIX OF THE GATT, IT INTENDED TO INTRODUCE GLOBAL QUOTAS ON TEXTILE IMPORTS FOR 1979. HOWEVER HONG KONG, ALTHOUGH A SUBSTANTIAL SUPPLIER, WAS NOT ALLOCATED AN APPROPRIATE +COUNTRY+ SHARE.
HONG KONG AND NORWAY HELD CONSULTATIONS TWICE IN 1978 AND AGAIN IN 1979, BUT WITHOUT CONCLUSIONS. AS A RESULT OF HONG KONG’S COMPLAINT ON THE NORWEGIAN ARTICLE XIX ACTION, THE GATT DECIDED TO ESTABLISH A PANEL TO LOOK INTO THE DISPUTE. WHILST THIS PANEL WAS BEING SET UP, NORWAY ANNOUNCED A SIX-MONTH EXTENSION OF ITS ORIGINAL ACTION, TO THE MIDDLE OF 1980.
0 -------
/7
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 1980
7
SEMINAR ON APPRECIATION OF CHINESE MUSIC
* * * *
MUSIC TEACHERS, AND MUSIC STUDENTS AT THE COLLEGES OF EDUCATION WILL ATTEND ANOTHER SEMINAR ON APPRECIATION OF CHINESE MUSIC IN JUNIOR SECONDARY FORMS TO BE HELD BY THE MUSIC SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT NEXT MONTH.
THE SEMINAR IS THE SECOND OF A SERIES OF THREE DESIGNED TO FAMILIARISE TEACHERS WITH THE SYLLABUS FOR THE APPRECIATION OF CHINESE MUSIC IN JUNIOR SECONDARY FORMS.
THE FIRST SEMINAR HELD IN APRIL 1979 DEALT WITH CURRICULUM CONTENT FOR FORM 1 AND THE CURRENT SEMINAR INTRODUCES THE CURRICULUM CONTENT FOR FORM 2.
THE SEMINAR WILL CONSIST OF LECTURES AND DEMONSTRATIONS BY SPECIALISTS AND PRACTISING MUSICIANS IN CHINESE FOLK SONGS AND REGIONAL MUSIC, AS WELL AS AN EXHIBITION OF CHINESE INSTRUMENTS.
SOME OF THE LECTURES WILL BE GIVEN IN MANDARIN AND LECTURE NOTES WILL BE GIVEN TO ALL PARTICIPANTS.
THE SEMINAR WILL BE HELD ON APRIL 10 AND 11 FROM 9.30 AM TO 4.30 PM IN THE RECITAL HALL, HONG KONG ARTS CENTRE, 2 HARBOUR ROAD, WANCHAI.
IN ORDER TO FACILITATE ARRANGEMENTS, APPLICATION FORMS, ALREADY SENT TO SCHOOLS, SHOULD BE RETURNED BY APRIL 1 TO THE PRINCIPAL INSPECTOR (MUSIC), MUSIC SECTION, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, 4TH FLOOR, CAROLINE MANSION, 8 YAN PING ROAD, CAUSEWAY BAY.
--------o----------
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON HK ISLAND M * X * * *
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE INTRODUCED FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (MARCH 21) IN SAI YING PUN TO FACILITATE CABLE LAYING IN POK FU LAM ROAD BETWEEN BONHAM ROAD AND WATER STREET.
UNDER THE TEMPORARY ARRANGEMENTS,
* THE SECTION OF POK FU LAM ROAD BETWEEN THIRD STREET AND QUEEN’S ROAD WEST WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND"
* THE SECTION OF WATER STREET BETWEEN THIRD STREET AND QUEEN’S ROAD WEST WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND"
* THE SECTION- OF THIRD STREET BETWEEN POK FU LAM ROAl) AND WATER STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY WESTBOUND AND VEHICLES, EXCEPT THOSE AUTHORISED IN WRITING BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT, WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE STREET.
/ALSO ON .....
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 1980 .
8
™L BE ^CLOSED BETWEEN 12.30 AM AND 5.30 AM EACH NIGHT FOR CONSTRUCTION WORK IN THE AREA.
DURING THE PERIODS OF CLOSURE, MOTORISTS MAY USE STUBBS ROAD AS AN ALTERNATIVE ROUTE.
TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP AT THESE PLACES TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
-----o------
RECREATION AND SPORT COUNCIL SUB-COMMITTEES RETITLED K I H M
THE COUNCIL FOR RECREATION AND SPORT HAS RETITLED ITS COMMUNITY RECREATION SUB-COMMITTEE, SUB-COMMITTEE ON SAFETY IN OUTDOOR PURSUITS, AND VETTING SUB-COMMITTEE AS ♦COMMITTEES*.
ITS CHINESE NAME HAS ALSO BEEN CHANGED TO REFLECT MORE CORRECTLY ITS STATUS.
THE COUNCIL ADVISES THE GOVERNMENT ON FACILITIES FOR RECREATION AND SPORT IN BOTH THE URBAN AND RURAL AREAS TO ENSURE THAT THEY ARE EXPANDED, CONSISTENT WITH RESOURCES AVAILABLE-THAT THEIR USE IS MAXIMISED, AND THAT THEY ARE APPROPRIATELY PROVIDED TO MEET THE LEISURE-TIME NEEDS OF YOUNG PEOPLE.
IT ALSO ADVISES THE GOVERNMENT ON HOW SUPERVISION OF VOLUNTARY AND GOVERNMENT AGENCIES IN RECREATION AND SPORT CAN BE IMPROVED AND EXPANDED, AND ADV ISES IT ON FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO AMATEUR SPORT.
THE COUNCIL’S OFFICE IS AT WING ON CENTRE, 11TH FLOOR, 111 CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL.
-------o---------
NOTE TO EDITORS*
ABERDEEN FACTORIES FIRE SAFETY INSPECTION *****
THE FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU WILL TOMORROW (THURSDAY) CARRY OUT A FIRE PREVENTION SURVEY ON INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS IN ABERDEEN?
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO COVER THE '^PECTION WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM. THEY SHOULD REPORT TO A MOBILE WILL BE SET UP AT THE UNCTION OF WONG CHUK HANG ROAD AND NAM LONG SHAN ROAD (OPPOSITE ABERDEEN FIRE STATION).
------o ------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 1980
CONTENTS PnGE NO,
HK'S EXTERNAL TRADE IN JANUARY ................................ 1
THE QUEEN AND THE QUEEN MOTHER CONSENT TO BE PATRONS OF HK GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION ........................ 5
RECORD NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS FOR TRADE MARK REGISTRATIONS MADE LAST YEAR ................................. 6
CONTRACT FOR RAILWAY DEPOT TO BE SIGNED TOMORROW .............. 6
REMOTE COMMUNITY'S PIER TO BE REBUILT ......................... 7
KOREAN OFFICIALS STUDY HK PRISONS ............................. 8
FIRE PREVENTION CHECK IN ABERDEEN ............................. 8
TECHNICAL INSTITUTES TO HOLD OPEN DnYS ........................ 9
PLB PROHIBITED ZONE IN TaI KCK TSUI ........................... 9
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SHAU KEI WaN .......................... 9
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 1980
1
HK’S EXTERNAL TRADE IN JANUARY * * * *
THE VALUE OF HONG KONG'S DOMESTIC EXPORTS IN JANUARY 1980 ROSE BY 31 PER CENT TO $4 997 MILLION, RE-EXPORTS BY 56 PER CENT TO S2 047 MILLION AND IMPORTS BY 52 PER CENT TO >8 132 MILLION.
ACCORDING TO EXTERNAL TRADE FIGURES RELEASED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) THE TOTAL MERCHANDISE TRADE VALUE FOR THE MONTH AMOUNTED TO 115 176 MILLION, UP 45 PER CENT OVER JANUARY 1979.
DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS TOGETHER SHOWED AN INCREASE IN VALUE OF 37 PER CENT.
DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO 10 MAJOR OVERSEAS MARKETS ARE AS FOLLOWSi-
JANUARY 80 (HK> MN.) JANUARY 79 (HK> MN.) INCREASE/ DECREASE (HK> MN.) PERCENTAGE CHANGE
U.S.A. 1 515 1 237 ♦ 278 ♦ 22
WEST GERMANY 635 470 ♦ 165 ♦ 35
UK 528 448 ♦ 80 ♦ 18
AUSTRALIA 183 155 ♦ 28 ♦ 18
JAPAN 181 186 5 3
NETHERLANDS 135 99 ♦ 36 ♦ 36
SINGAPORE 132 100 ♦ 32 ♦ 32
CANADA 119 112 ♦ 7 ♦ 6
CHINA 109 17 ♦ 92 ♦ 541
FRANCE 95 62 ♦ 33 ♦ 53
INCREASES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO USA WERE REGISTERED MAINLY IN CLOTHING (BY >67 MILLION OR 15 PER CENT), ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES (BY >46 MILLION OR 50 PER CENT), OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING EQUIPMENT (BY >36 MILLION OR 52 PER CENT) AS WELL AS TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY >31 MILLION OR 45 PER CENT). ON THE OTHER HAND. THE DEMAND FOR PLASTIC PRODUCTS CONTINUED TO DECLINE. EXPORTS OF PLASTIC TOYS AND DOLLS DECREASED BY >0.1 MILLION OR 0.1 PER CENT AND PLASTIC ARTIFICIAL FLOWERS, BY >2 MILLION OR EIGHT PER CENT.
SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO WEST GERMANY WERE ATTRIBUTED LARGELY TO THE ACTIVE DEMAND FOR CLOTHING (BY >93 MILLION OR 33 PER CENT), WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY >20 MILLION OR 77 PER CENT) AS WELL AS TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY >17 MILLION OR 35 PER CENT).
THE GROWTH IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO UK WAS MODERATE. MORE SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED FOR CLOTHING (BY >39 MILLION OR 15 PER CENT) AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY >20 MILLION OR 89 PER CENT). HOWEVER, A DECLINE WAS REGISTERED IN EXPORTS OF TEXTILES (BY >3 MILLION OR TWO PER CENT).
/DOMESTIC EXPORTS .
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 1980
2
DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO JAPAN DECLINED BY THREE PER CENT OVERALL. DECREASES WERE MAINLY FOR FISH, CRUSTANCEANS AND MOLLUSCS (BY S1O MILLION OR 33 PER CENT), CLOTHING (BY $5 MILLION OR 13 PER CENT), MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AND PARTS AND ACCESSORIES THEREOF (BY $2 MILLION OR 61 PER CENT), AND BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $1 MILLION OR 14 PER CENT).
CHANGES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION ARE AS FOLLOWS 1-
JANUARY 80 JANUARY 79 INCREASE PERCENTAGE (HK$ MN.) (HK$ MN.) (HK$ MN.) CHANGE
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ♦ 19
ACCESSORIES 1 742 1 459 + 283
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY PLASTIC TOYS AND DOLLS) 791 631 ♦ 160 ♦ 25
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS. OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 434 285 ♦ 149 ♦ 52
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 409 249 ♦ 160 ♦ 64
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 372 269 ♦ 103 ♦ 38
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES (MAINLY TRANSISTORS AND DIODES AND HOUSEHOLD TYPE APPLIANCES) 320 207 ♦ 113 ♦ 55
A MORE DETAILED ANALYSIS REVEALED THAT INCREASES WERE RECORDED
MAINLY IN EXPORTS OF WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY $130 MILLION OR 56 PER CENT), RADIO BROADCAST RECEIVERS (BY $84 MILLION OR 69 PER CENT), TEXTILE FABRICS (BY $59 MILLION OR 28 PER CENT), AND PLASTIC TOYS AND DOLLS (BY $31 MILLION OR 14 PER CENT).
ON THE OTHER HAND, DECLINES WERE NOTED IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF FISH, CRUSTANCEANS AND MOLLUSCS, AND PREPARATIONS THEREOF (BY $17 MILLION OR 39 PER CENT), AND IRON AND STEEL (BY $5 MILLION OR 63 PER CENT).
/THE CHANGES .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 1980
3
THE CHANGES IN IMPORTS FROM 10 MAJOR SOURCES ARE SUMMARISED AS FOLLOWS 1-
JANUARY 80 JANUARY 79 INCREASE PERCENTAGE (HK* MN.) (HK* MN.) (HK* MN.) CHANGE
CHINA 1 636 977 ♦ 659 ♦ 67
JAPAN 1 600 1 008 ♦ 592 ♦ 59
USA 873 636 ♦ 237 ♦ 37
SINGAPORE 697 321 ♦ 376 ♦ 117
TAIWAN 582 424 ♦ 158 ♦ 37
UK 436 266 ♦ 170 ♦ 64
SOUTH KOREA 291 195 ♦ 96 ♦ 49
WEST GERMANY 265 195 ♦ 70 ♦ 36
SWITZERLAND 177 172 ♦ 5 ♦ 3
FRANCE 129 91 ♦ 38 ♦ 42
REMARKABLE INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN IMPORTS FROM JAPAN, PARTICULARLY OF ROAD VEHICLES (BY *71 MILLION OR 90 PER CENT), WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY *62 MILLION OR 81 PER CENT), TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY *63 MILLION OR 70 PER CENT) AS WELL AS IRON AND STEEL (BY *46 MILLION OR 67 PER CENT).
IMPORTS FROM CHINA ALSO ROSE TREMENDOUSLY, MAINLY IN PETROLEUM AND RELATED PRODUCTS (BY *125 MILLION OR 142 PER CENT), TEXTILES (BY *93 MILLION OR 46 PER CENT) AND CLOTHING (BY *78 MILL ION OR 204 PER CENT).
INCREASES IN IMPORTS FROM USA WERE ATTRIBUTED LARGELY TO THE BIGGER DEMAND FOR ARTIFICIAL RESINS AND PLASTIC MATERIALS, AND CELLULOSE ESTERS AND ETHERS (BY *59 MILLION OR 210 PER CENT), OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING EQUIPMENT (BY *39 MILLION OR 77 PER CENT), AND ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES (BY *27 MILLION OR 55 PER CENT).
SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE ALSO REGISTERED IN IMPORTS OF PETROLEUM AND RELATED PRODUCTS (BY *313 MILLION OR 173 PER CENT) FROM SINGAPORE AND ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES (BY *29 MILLION OR 84 PER CENT) FROM TAIWAN.
THE FOLLOWING TABLE ILLUSTRATES THE MORE IMPORTANT CHANGES IN IMPORTS BY COMMODITY SECTION 1-
JANUARY 80 JANUARY 79 INCREASE PERCENTAGE
(HK* MN.) (HK* MN.) (HK* MN.) CHANGE
MANUFACTURED GOODS CLASSIFIED CHIEFLY BY MATERIAL (MAINLY TEXTILE PRODUCTS AND DIAMONDS) 2 351 1 671 +680 +41
MACHINERY AND TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT 1 672 1 118 *554 *50
/MISCELLANEOUS .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 1980
4 -
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY WATCHES AND CLOCKS, ARTICLES OF
APPAREL) 1 083 652 ♦ 431 ♦ 66
FOOD AND LIVE ANIMALS CHIEFLY FOR FOOD 881 736 ♦ 145 ♦ 20
MINERAL FUELS, LUBRICANTS AND RELATED MATERIALS 733 287 ♦ 446 ♦ 155
CHEMICALS AND RELATED PRODUCTS 690 397 ♦ 293 ♦ 74
BY COMMODITY, INCREASES IN IMPORTS WERE DUE MAINLY TO PETROLEUM AND RELATED PRODUCTS (BY >440 MILLION OR 161 PER CENT), TEXTILES (BY >214 MILLION OR 25 PER CENT), MISCELLANEOUS NON-METALLIC MINERAL MANUFACTURES (BY >198 MILLION OR 71 PER CENT), ELECTRICAL MACHINERY. APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES (BY >167 MILLION OR 48 PER CENT), AND WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY >153 MILLION OR 70 PER CENT).
A RECORD GROWTH OF >163 MILLION OR 417 PER CENT WAS RECORDED FOR RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA. RE-EXPORTS TO USA, TAIWAN AND SINGAPORE ALSO SHOWED INCREASES OF >77 MILLION OR 70 PER CENT, >62 MILLION OR 48 PER CENT, AND >33 MILLION OR 27 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
VERY ACTIVE DEMAND FOR RE-EXPORTS WAS RECORDED, PARTICULARLY FOR NON-FERROUS METALS (BY >101 MILLION OR 602 PER CENT), b€TALLIFEROUS ORES AND METAL SCRAP (BY >53 MILLION OR 2 942 PER CENT), CLOTHING (BY >50 MILLION OR 96 PER CENT), WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY >49 MILLION OR 61 PER CENT), AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY >44 MILLION OR 140 PER CENT).
THE TRADE INDICES FOR DECEMBER 1979 (1973 - 100) WERE AS
FOLLOWSi VALUE INDEX UNIT VALUE INDEX QUANTUM INDEX
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 345 171 202
IMPORTS 345 178 194
THE TRADE INDEX FOR DECEMBER 1979 WAS 96.
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THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 1980
5
THE QUEEN AND THE QUEEN MOTHER CONSENT TO BE PATRONS OF HK GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION ft ft ft ft ft ft
HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN AND HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER HAVE GRACIOUSLY CONSENTED TO BE PATRONS OF THE HONG KONG GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION, WHICH CEASED TWO YEARS AGO TO BE A BRANCH OF THE UNITED KINGDOM GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION AND BECAME AUTONOMOUS.
THE FORMATION OF THE GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION IN HONG KONG GOES BACK TO 1915. IT WAS NOT UNTIL 1968 THAT REAL EXPANSION BEGAN. IN 1968 THERE WERE 2 900 MEMBERS. PRESENT FIGURES SHOW THE NUMBER THIS YEAR TO BE OVER 15 000 REPRESENTING A 600 PER CENT INCREASE.
THE HONG KONG GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION-WAS FORMERLY A +BRANCH* CF THE UNITED KINGDOM.
AS THE NUMBERS GREW AND THE MOVEMENT EXPANDED, THIS BECAME AN UNTENABLE SITUATION AND IN FEBRUARY 1978 HONG KONG WAS RELEASED FROM THE UNITED KINGDOM ADMINISTRATION AND BECAME AUTONOMOUS.
THE NEXT STEP WAS TO APPLY FOR MEMBERSHIP OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION OF GIRL GUIDES AND GIRL SCOUTS - THE INTERNATIONAL BODY REPRESENTING 98 COUNTRIES AND WITH MORE THAN SEVEN MILLION MEMBERS.
ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP OF THIS WORLD BODY WAS GRANTED TO HONG KONG IN SEPTEMBER 1978. AT PRESENT THERE IS AN APPLICATION BEING FORMULATED FOR FULL MEMBERSHIP OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION OF GIRL GUIDES AND GIRL SCOUTS, AND THIS WILL BE CONSIDERED DURING THE CONFERENCE TO BE HELD IN FRANCE NEXT YEAR.
♦A PROUD MOMENT FOR THE ASSOCIATION WAS THE NEWS RECEIVED THAT HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN AND HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER HAVE GRACIOUSLY CONSENTED TO BE PATRONS OF THE HONG KONG GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION,* A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ASSOCIATION SAID.
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RECORD NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS FOR TRADE MARK REGISTRATIONS MADE LAST YEAR ft ft ft * *
THE TRADE MARKS REGISTRY HANDLED A RECORD TOTAL OF 4 792 APPLICATIONS FOR TRADE MARK REGISTRATIONS LAST YEAR, 630 MORE THAN THOSE IN 1978.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRADE MARKS REGISTRY SAID DURING THE YEAR A TOTAL OF 1 680 TRADE MARKS WERE REGISTERED. TOPPING THE LIST OF 37 COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN WAS USA WITH 417 TRADE MARKS REGISTERED TO BE FOLLOWED BY HONG KONG WITH 389. OTHER PRINCIPAL COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN WERE JAPAN (188), UNITED KINGDOM (168), WEST GERMANY (137), FRANCE (107), SWITZERLAND (77), ITALY (43), AUSTRALIA (30) AND THE NETHERLANDS (20).
/THE TOTAL .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 1980
6
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF TRADE MARKS ON THE REGISTER AT DECEMBER 31, 1979 WAS 34 275.
DURING THE YEAR, 2 260 APPLICATIONS. INCLUDING MANY MADE IN PREVIOUS YEARS, WERE INITIALLY ACCEPTED AND THEIR TRADE MARKS WERE ADVERTISED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TO SEE WHETHER THERE WAS ANY OPPOSITION TO THE REGISTRATION.
THE SPOKESMAN SAIDi *ANY NOTICE OF OPPOSITION MUST BE LODGED WITH THE REGISTRY WITHIN TWO MONTHS FROM THE DATE OF THE ADVERTISEMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISION OF THE TRADE MARKS RULES UNDER THE TRADE MARKS ORDINANCE.*
AT PRESENT, THE TRADE MARKS ORDINANCE PROVIDES THE INITIAL REGISTRATION TO BE VALID FOR SEVEN YEARS AND THEREAFTER RENEWABLE FOR A FURTHER SUBSEQUENT PERIOD OF 14 YEARS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAIDi ^ALTHOUGH THERE IS NO ORIGINAL GRANT OF PATENTS IN HONG KONG, THE REGISTRATION OF PATENTS ORDINANCE PROVIDES THAT ANY GRANTEE OF A UNITED KINGDOM PATENT OR EUROPEAN PATENT (UK) MAY, WITHIN FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE OF ITS GRANT, APPLY TO HAVE THE PATENT REGISTERED IN HONG KONG.*
♦REGISTRATION OF A UNITED KINGDOM PATENT OR EUROPEAN PATENT (UK) IN HONG KONG CONFERS ON THE GRANTEE THE SAME PRIVILEGES AND RIGHTS AS IF THE PATENT HAD BEEN GRANTED IN THE UNITED KINGDOM WITH AN EXTENSION TO HONG KONG.
♦A TOTAL OF 893 PATENTS WERE REGISTERED DURING THE YEAR, COMPARED WITH 758 IN 1978,+ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
-->-0----
CONTRACT FOR RAILWAY DEPOT TO BE SIGNED TOMORROW *****
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT WILL AWARD A MAJOR CONTRACT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A RAILWAY DEPOT AT HO TUNG LAU, SHA TIN, TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
THE CONTRACT, WHICH FORMS PART OF THE >2 000 MILLION MODERNISATION AND ELECTRIFICATION SCHEME OF THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY, IS THE BIGGEST SO FAR AWARDED UNDER THE SCHEME.
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHER TO COVER THE CONTRACT SIGNING CEREMONY WHICH WILL BE HELD IN THE GIS THEATRE, BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, FIFTH FLOOR, AT 3.15 PM TOMORROW.
OFFICERS OF THE PWD PUBLICITY UNIT WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST THE PRESS.
TV CREWS ARE REQUESTED TO ARRIVE EARLY SO THAT THEY WILL HAVE AMPLE TIME TO SET UP THEIR EQUIPMENT.
0 - -
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 1980
7
REMOTE COMMUNITY’S PIER TO BE REBUILT ******
A REMOTE SAI KUNG COMMUNITY’S MAJOR LINK WITH THE OUTSIDE WORLD - A SMALL PIER WHICH WAS EXTENSIVELY DAMAGED WHEN STRUCK BY TYPHOON HOPE LAST YEAR - IS TO BE REBUILT BY THE GOVERNMENT.
THE COMMUNITY LIVES AT THE SMALL VILLAGE OF NAI -CHUNG, FACING PLOVER COVE RESERVOIR, WHOSE NEAREST LARGE TOWN IS TAI PO, REACHED BY FERRY OR +KAIDO+ ACROSS TOLO HARBOUR.
WITHOUT A PIER, THE VILLAGERS ARE ISOLATED, PO AND SAI KUNG CAN BE REACHED BY ROAD.
ALTHOUGH BOTH TAI
IN LEARNING THE PLIGHT OF THE PEOPLE OF NAI CHUNG THE TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICE DECIDED THAT THE PIER NEEDED TO BE RE-CONSTRUCTED. TENDERS FOR THE WORK WILL SOON BE INVITED.
THE WORK WILL BE CARRIED OUT UNDER THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION’S LOCAL PUBLIC WORKS (LPW) PROGRAMME.
A NTA SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THE PIER WAS VERY MUCH A PART OF THE DAILY LIFE OF VILLAGERS.
♦ALTHOUGH THERE ARE PUBLIC PIERS AT NEIGHBOURING WU KWAI SHA AND KEI LING HA, THEY ARE IN PLACES WHICH CANNOT BE REACHED BY MOTOR TRANSPORT,♦ HE SAID.
♦HEAVIER USE HAS THUS HAD TO MAKE OF THE NAI CHUNG PIER WHICH HAS WELL SERVED LOCAL RESIDENTS AND THE LARGE NUMBER OF PICNICKERS WHO FLOCK TO THE AREA DURING HOL(DAYS.♦
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE COLLAPSE OF THE PIER HAD PREVENTED THE TOLO HARBOUR FERRY SERVICE FROM CALLING AT NAI CHUNG. DESPITE A KA IDO SERVICE WHICH STILL OPERATED, THE RESIDENTS HAD BEEN INCONVENIENCED.
TO ENSURE EARLY RESUMPTION OF FERRY SERVICES, HE SAID, THE PIER NEEDED TO BE REBUILT AS A MATTER OF URGENCY.
ENGINEERING SKETCHES FOR THE PROJECT HAVE BEEN COMPLETED TO A DESIGN WORKED OUT BY NTA ENGINEER, MR WONG KAI-WING.
WORK WILL START IMMEDIATELY AFTER A TENDER HAS BEEN ACCEPTED AND WILL BE COMPLETED EARLY NEXT YEAR.
/8
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 1980.
8
KOREAN OFFICIALS STUDY HK PRISONS ft * * ft
TWO SENIOR CORRECTIONAL OFFICIALS FROM THE KOREAN MINISTRY OF JJSTICE ARE ON A SPECIAL VISIT TO HONG KONG TO STUDY OUR MAXIMUMSECURITY PENAL INSTITUTIONS.
THEY ARE MR LEE SANG-HAE, DIRECTOR OF THE INSTALLATION DIVISION OF THE MINISTRY’S CORRECTION BUREAU AND HIS DEPUTY JONG-YOUNG.
MR SEO
^VT T0 BU,LD A MAXIMUM SECURITY PRISON IN SEOUL
NEXT YEAR, ACCORDING TO MR LEE.
^UYODAY (THURSDAY), THE VISITORS TOURED THE LAI CHI KOK RECEPTION CENTRE, PIK UK CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION AND PIK UK PRISON. THEY WERE IMPRESSED WITH THE SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS IN THE INSTITUTIONS. ^SSlAbtLIH?eMS2fRJLELECTR0",C SECURITY DEVICES AT THE RECEPTION CENTRE WHICH IS ONE OF THE FEW HIGH-RISE PENAL INSTITUTIONS IN THE WORLD.
t ?EF2?!..IHE T0UR THEY HAD TALKS “’TH THE COMMISSIONER OF NR T.G. GARNER.
PRISONS
0
FIRE PREVENTION CHECK IN ABERDEEN ft ft ft ft
MORE THAN 100 FACTORIES IN ABERDEEN WILL BE SERVED WITH FIRE HAZARD ABATEMENT NOTICES, MOSTLY FOR CAUSING OBSTRUCTION IN COMMON AREAS AND ON STAIRCASES, AS A RESULT OF A CHECK BY FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU OFFICERS THIS (THURSDAY) MORNING.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE FIRE SERVICES SAIDi +THESE FACTORIES ARE REQUIRED TO REMOVE THE HAZARDS WITHIN A STIPULATED PERIOD OR ELSE BE SUMMONSED.*
IN ADDITION, SUMMONSES WILL BE SERVED ON THREE FACTORIES FOR THE RECURRENCE OF FIRE HAZARDS. THESE FACTORIES HAD PREVIOUSLY BEEN ISSUED WITH FIRE HAZARD ABATEMENT NOTICES.
MORE THAN 1 100 FACTORY UNITS IN 57 INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS CHOSEN AT RANDOM WERE INSPECTED BY A PARTY OF 25 FIREMEN HEADED BY DIVISIONAL OFFICER, MR KWAN SAI-YIU.
AT TODAY’S OPERATION THEY ALSO FOUND 55 CASES OF ILLEGAL ROOFTOP STRUCTURES USED FOR INDUSTRIAL PURPOSES, UNLICENSED CANTEENS AND UNAUTHORISED BUILDING ALTERATIONS. THESE CASES WOULD BE REFERRED TO THE APPROPRIATE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS FOR ACTION.
-----o------
/9
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 1980
9
TECHNICAL INSTITUTES * * *
TO HOLD OPEN DAYS M
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO VISIT THREE TECHNICAL INSTITUTES OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT DURING THEIR RESPECTIVE OPEN DAYS IN THE NEXT TWO WEEKS.
THE OPEN DAY AT KWAI CHUNG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE WILL BE HELD ON MARCH 24 (MONDAY), THAT FOR KWUN TONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE ON MARCH 28 (FRIDAY) AND FOR HAKING WONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE ON APRIL 2 (WEDNESDAY).
EACH OF THE THREE TECHNICAL INSTITUTES RUNS FIVE TEACHING DEPARTMENTS, OFFERING FULL-TIME AS WELL AS PART-TIME DAY-RELEASE AND EVENING COURSES AT BOTH TECHNICIAN AND CRAFT LEVELS.
WORKSHOPS AND LABORATORIES AT THE INSTITUTES WILL BE OPEN TO VISITORS ON THE OPEN DAYS.
KWAI CHUNG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE IS LOCATED AT HING SHING ROAD, KWAI CHUNG- KWUN TONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE AT 25 HIU MING STREET, KWUN TONG- AND HAKING WONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE AT 702 LAI CHI KOK ROAD, CHEUNG SHA WAN.
PLB PROHIBITED ZONE IN TAI KOK TSUI * * * *
A NUMBER OF STREETS IN TAI KOK TSUI WILL BE DESIGNATED PUBLIC
LIGHT BUS PROHIBITED ZONE FROM 10 AM ON SUNDAY (MARCH 23).
THEY ARE TAI CHING STREET. A SECTION OF TAI TSUN STREET BETWEEN TAI KOK TSUI ROAD AND KOK CHEUNG STREET AND A SECTION dF FIFE STREET BETWEEN FA YUEN STREET AND SAI YEE STREET.
ALL PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES EXCEPT THOSE AUTHORISED IN WRITING BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT WILL BE BANNED FROM ENTERING A PLB PROHIBITED ZONE.
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SHAU KEI WAN » k K K K
THE JUNCTION OF ALDRICH STREET AND FACTORY STREET IN SHAU KEI WAN WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FOR ABOUT THREE MONTHS FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (MARCH 24) FOR SEWAGE WORK.
DURING THIS PERIOD, THE BUS TERMINUS FOR ROUTE 84 WILL BE TEMPORARILY SITED AT WANG WAH STREET. BUSES WILL RUN FROM THE TEMPORARY TERMINUS TO CHAI WAN VIA KAM WAH STREET, SHAU KEI WAN MAIN STREET EAST, SHAU KEI WAN ROAD AND CHAI WAN ROAD.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
------0-------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG TEL: 5-233191
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
HK'S LABOUR FORCE IS FLEXIBLE AND HARD-WORKING SAYS CS ................................................... 1
PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SPENDING TO REACH ^550 MILLION IN 198>8^ ................................................. 8
MAJOR CONTRACT SIGNED FOR KCR MODERNISATION SCHEME ....... 10
INCREASES IN COMPENSATION FOR RESUMED LAND IN NT ......... 11
TSUEN WAN ARTS FESTIVAL ENDS ............................. 11
ID CARD - A MUST IN SaI KUNG COUNTRY PARKS ............... 12
SUPERVISION SCHEME FOR YOUNG OFFENDERS PROPOSED .......... 1J
NEW POST OFFICE AT i ORISON HILL ......................... 15
TENDERS INVITED FOR SHOPS AT aIRPORT ..................... 14
TWO KOWLOON MAXICAB ROUTINGS REVISED ..................... 14
COURSE FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHERS ................... 15
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN YAU MA TEI ....................... 15
FIRING PRACTICE .......................................... 16
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
1
HK’S LABOUR FORCE IS FLEXIBLE AND HARD-WORKING SAYS CS ******* * *
ORGANISATIONS WHICH LOOK AFTER THE INTERESTS OF OUR WORKFORCE AND WHICH STRIVE TO IMPROVE LABOUR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS SHOULD FLOURISH AND TAKE THEIR PART IN THE COMMUNITY’S TOTAL EFFORT.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR JACK CATER SAID THIS WHEN ADDRESSING THE 5TH ANNUAL DINNER OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS THIS (FRIDAY) EVENING.
♦HONG KONG IS FORTUNATE INDEED TO HAVE A QUITE REMARKABLE LABOUR FORCE — FLEXIBLE AND HARD-WORK ING,♦ HE SAID.
♦THEY HAVE A RIGHT TO SHARE FAIRLY IN OUR PROSPERITY -----
A PROSPERITY WHICH THEY HAVE LARGELY HELPED TO CREATE.♦
♦YOU MUST KNOW OF THE POOR UNFORTUNATES AMONGST US WHO CANNOT KEEP UP WITH THE PACE, WHO SLIP THROUGH THE SOMEWHAT MEAGRE SAFETY NETS GOVERNMENT HAS SO FAR BEEN ABLE TO PROVIDE TO CATCH AND HELP THEM.+
♦YOU ARE AWARE THAT WE NEED NOT ONLY THE EXPERTISE, THE PROFESSIONALISM, THE IDEAS, BUT ALSO THE PEOPLE WHO CARRY OUT THOSE IDEAS — WHO ACTUALLY MAKE, BUILD, DIG, AND SOMETIMES SADLY DIE IN THE ENDEAVOUR.*
FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF SIR JACK CATER’S SPEECH 1
♦IT IS A GREAT PLEASURE FOR ME TONIGHT TO BE INVITED TO ADDRESS THE MEMBERS OF THE FLOURISHING INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS, ESPECIALLY AFTER PARTAKING OF SUCH AN ENJOYABLE MEALi AND THANK YOU TOO, SIR, FOR THE KIND WORDS YOU HAVE SAID ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT, AND THE OVER-KIND THINGS YOU HAVE SAID ABOUT ME.
♦I USED THE WORD +FLOURISHING+ TO DESCRIBE YOUR INSTITUTION DELIBERATELY AND ADVISEDLY. FOR THERE CAN BE FEW PROFESSIONAL BODIES IN HONG KONG WITH A LARGER OR MORE ENTHUSIASTIC MEMBERSHIP. AND SO IT SHOULD BE. MEMBERS OF THE ENGINEERING PROFESSION, IN ALL ITS BRANCHES, HAVE BEEN CHANGING THE FACE OF HONG KONG AND OTHER VITAL, OFTEN UNSEEN, PARTS OF THE BODY CORPORATE, FOR WELL OVER A CENTURY AND, AFTER ALL THAT PRACTICE, YOU SEEM NOW TO HAVE WHIPPED YOURSELVES INTO WHAT CAN ONLY BE DESCRIBED AS A VERITABLE FRENZY OF ACTIVITY WITH NO SIGN OF A LET-UP. IT HAS BEEN SAID THAT NOWADAYS HONG KONG IS ONE VAST CONSTRUCTION SITEi BUT I AM TOLD BY THOSE IN AUTHORITY THAT THAT IS A SLIGHT EXAGGERATION! ONLY ABOUT A HALF OF IT CAN BE SAID TO FIT THAT DESCRIPTION AT ANY ONE TIME’ BE THAT AT IT MAY, HOWEVER, HONG KONG IS CERTAINLY ONE OF THE MECCAS — OR SHOULD I SAY ONE OF THE CORNUCOPIAS — OF INTERNATIONAL ENGINEERING CONSULTANCY FIRMS 1 THE HORN OF PLENTY, OVERFLOWING WITH CEMENT, SAND AND AGGREGATE -- AND, I IMAGINE, FAIRISH PROFITS.
/+ONLY A .....
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
2
nl_r.l ♦?NLY A FEW WEEKS AGO HER ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCESS ALEXANDRA OFFICIALLY OPENED TWO PROJECTS — THE MODIFIED INITIAL SYSTEM OF THE MTR AND THE HIGH ISLAND WATER SCHEME — WHICH IN THEMSELVES CONSTITUTE MAJOR ENGINEERING FEATS OF THE FIRST ORDER, EVEN BY WORLD STANDARDS. I DOUBT WHETHER ANY UNDERGROUND RAILWAY SYSTEM OF COMPARABLE LENGTH HAS BEEN BUILT MORE RAPIDLY THAN OUR MTR — FOUR YEARS AND THREE MONTHS — AND I DOUBT TOO WHETHER ANY HAS BEEN BUILT THROUGH SUCH DENSELY POPULATED AREAS, OR INDEED WITHIN THE ORIGINAL ESTIMATES OF EXPENDITURE. IN DUE COURSE IT WILL BECOME THE MOST HEAVILY UTILISED UNDERGROUND RAILWAY SYSTEM IN THE WORLD PER MILE OF TRACK.
+THE MTR IS NOT ALONE IN THE TUNNELLING BUSINESS EITHER* I WAS SURPRISED TO LEARN THAT 4OKM OF TUNNELS WERE CONSTRUCTED FOR THE HIGH ISLAND WATER SCHEME. AND THIS NEW WATER SCHEME HAS NOW BEEN BACKED-UP BY THE IMPORTANT ARRANGEMENTS MADE RECENTLY WITH REGARD TO SUPPLIES FROM CHINA WHICH PROMISES TO MEET OUR FORECAST DEMAND OF UP TO 620 MILLION CUBIC METRES PER ANNUM BY 1994/5.
♦AGAIN, AS YOU KNOW, WORK IS NOW PROCEEDING AT FULL SPEED ON THE TSUEN WAN EXTENSION OF THE MTR WHICH SHOULD BE READY FOR OPERATION BEFORE THE END OF 1982. THE MODERNISATION AND ELECTRIFICATION OF THE KCR IS ALSO WELL UNDER WAY. FURTHERMORE, A DECISION IS EXPECTED BEFORE LONG ON A RAIL-BASED SYSTEM FOR THE HONG KONG ISLAND CORRIDOR. INTERCHANGE STATIONS AT ADMIRALTY ON THE ISLAND AND AT KOWLOON TONG WILL ENSURE THAT IN A FEW YEARS’ TIME THERE WILL BE AN INTEGRATED RAILWAY NETWORK, REACHING INTO MOST OF THE DENSELY POPULATED PARTS OF THE URBAN AREA AND THE EASTERN NEW TERRITORIES.
♦THEN THERE ARE THE NEW TOWNS .... AND HERE WE ARE BEGINNING TO SEE REAL CONCRETE RESULTS (AND I USE THAT WORD ADVISEDLY TOO?) IN TERMS OF HOMES, FACTORIES, COMMERCIAL AREAS AND OTHER BUILDtNGS-AS IS EVIDENT IN SHA TIN, TUEN MUM AND THE RAPIDLY EXPANDING AREAS OF TSUEN WAN AND KWAI CHUNG. CONSIDERABLE DEVELOPMENT IS ALSO THERE FOR ALL TO SEE IN TAI PO AND YUEN LONG- AND SOON WILL BE IN FANLING AND SHEUNG SHU I. BY THE LATE 80S, WHEN ALL THESE TOWNS ARE DEVELOPED TO THEIR FULL CAPACITY, THEY WILL BETWEEN THEM CONTAIN A POPULATION OF AT LEAST 2-1/2 MILLION* A FAR CRY FROM THE COUNTRY TOWNSHIPS AND VILLAGES I CAME TO KNOW SO WELL IN 1945 AND IN THE YEARS THAT FOLLOWED.
♦NEEDLESS TO SAY, ALL THIS HAS INVOLVED A GREAT DEAL OF PLANNING AND ENGINEERING EFFORT, WHETHER IN RECLAMATIONS AND CLEARANCES OF LAND, THE PLANNING OF LAYOUTS AND LAND USES, ROADS, WATER SUPPLIES, DRAINS. SEWAGE-TREATMENT-WORKS, AND SO ON. IT IS fHE LATEST, AND IN MANY WAYS THE MOST AUDACIOUS, EXAMPLE OF HOW THE ENGINEERING PROFESSION IN ITS WIDER SENSE, HELPED BY OTHERS INCLUDING ARCHITECTS AND SURVEYORS ARE CONTINUING TO CHANGE HONG KONG.
♦MR PRESIDENT, GENTLEMEN, BEFORE I EMBARKED ON THE PLEASANT DUTY OF CONSTRUCTING A SPEECH TO DELIVER TONIGHT I DID RATHER WONDER WHAT MANNER OF MEN I SHOULD BE ADDRESSING. WHAT, I ASKED MYSELF, IS AN ENGINEER? ENGINEERS, I KNOW, COME IN INNUMERABLE DIFFERENT MAKES, AND APPARENTLY IN ALL SHADES AND SIZES. THEY ARE VERY CIVIL, ELECTRIFY INGLY CLEVER, MECHANICALLY-STRUCTURED, HEATED. STEAMED AND THEREAFTER BLESSEDLY SANITARY.
/+ (ANY.VAY) I .......
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
5
♦(ANYWAY) I THEN OBTAINED A COPY OF YOUR ORDINANCE — WHICH • RECALLED W0ULD HELP * LOT| AND ,T D,D* *HD HERE, SIR, MAY I MAKS A PERSONAL COMMENT. I REMEMBER PARTICULARLY WELL twE CARE AND ATTENTION THE INSTITUTION GAVE TO THE FRAMING OF YOUR ORDINANCE, AND ESPECIALLY WITH REGARD TO THE OBJECTS OF THE INSTITUTION- ONE OF WHICH AT 4(l) IS +TO DISCOURAGE DISHONOURABLE CONDUCT AND PRACTICES ARISING IN THE ENGINEERING PROFESSION.♦ IT IS VERY GOOD INDEED TO KNOW THAT, IN HONG KONG AT ANY RATE, ENGINEERS HAVE INSISTED UPON STATING THUS THEIR MORAL OBLIGATIONS SO FIRMLY AND UNEQUIVOCALLY. I AM PROUD AND PLEASED IS SO.
THAT THAT
♦NEVERTHELESS, EVEN YOUR ORDINANCE DID NOT GIVE ME EXACTLY WHAT I WAS SEEKING IN TERMS OF DEFINITION.......WHAT SORT OF PEOPLE
ARE ENGINEERS?
♦NO DOUBT YOU HAVE READ THAT ADVERTISEMENT WHICH GOES SOMETHING LIKE ... ♦BUY ONE AND THEN YOU WON’T HAVE TO ASK YOUR DAD+? YOU HAVE? WELL I’LL BET YOURS IS RATHER MORE UP-TO-DATE THAN MY ENCYCLOPAEDIA BRITTANICA BUT WHICH NEVERTHELESS DID ANSWER MY QUESTION. AND I SHOULD LIKE TO SHARE MY NEWLY ACQUIRED KNOWLEDGE WITH YOU NOWi AND I QUOTE ’SO DIVERSIFIED ARE THE SERVICES REQUIRED OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS THROUGHOUT THE WIDE RANGE OF INDUSTRIES, PUBLIC UTILITIES AND GOVERNMENTAL WORK, AND IN THE DISCOVERY, DEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION OF RESOURCES, THAT MEN OF EXTREMELY VARIOUS PERSONALITY AND PHYSIQUE MAY ACHIEVE SUCCESS. (NO GUARANTEE YOU SEE 1 ALL SORTS, THE LONG, THE SHORT AND THE TALL, ANY SORT MAY BECOME ENGINEERS BUT NOT ALL MAY APPARENTLY ACHIEVE SUCCESS.)
♦’QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE INTELLECTUAL AND MORAL HONESTY, COURAGE, INDEPENDENCE OF THOUGHT, FAIRNESS, GOOD SENSE, SOUND JUDGEMENT, PERSEVERANCE, RESOURCEFULNESS, INGENUITY, ORDERLINESS, APPLICATION, ACCURACY AND (OF COURSE) ENDURANCE. AN ENGINEER SHOULD HAVE ABILITY TO OBSERVE, DEDUCE, APPLY, TO CORRELATE CAUSE AND EFFECT, TO CO-OPERATE, TO ORGANISE, TO ANALYSE SITUATIONS AND CONDITIONS, TO STATE PROBLEMS, TO DIRECT THE EFFORTS OF OTHERS (AND BY GOLLY THEY CERTAINLY DO, DON’T THEY). HE SHOULD KNOW HOW TO INFORM, CONVINCE AND WIN CONFIDENCE BY SKILFUL AND RIGHT USE OF FACTS. HE SHOULD BE ALERT, READY TO LEARN, OPEN-MINDED, BUT NOT CREDULOUS (EVEN THOUGH IF MY DEALINGS WITH THE FRATERNITY ARE ANYTHING TO GO BY MANY EXPECT ME TO BE CREDULOUS). HE MUST BE ABLE TO ASSEMBLE FACTS, TO INVESTIGATE THOROUGHLY, TO DISCRIMINATE CLEARLY BETWEEN ASSUMPTION AND PROVEN KNOWLEDGE. HE SHOULD BE A MAN OF FAITH, ONE WHO PERCEIVES BOTH DIFFICULTIES AND WAYS TO SURMOUNT THEM. HE SHOULD NOT ONLY KNOW MATHEMATICS AND MECHANICS, BUT SHOULD BE TRAINED TO METHODS OF THOUGHT BASED ON THESE FUNDAMENTAL BRANCHES OF LEARNING. ORGANISED HABITS (WAIT FOR IT) OF MEMORY AND LARGE CAPACITY (NO, NOT FOR BOOZE — ALTHOUGH MANY HAVE THAT ABILITY TOO -- AS EVIDENCED HERE TONIGHT) -- CAPACITY FOR INFORMATION ARE NECESSARY. HE SHOULD HAVE EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE OF THE SCIENCES AND OTHER BRANCHES OF LEARNING AND KNOW INTENSIVELY THOSE THINGS WHICH CONCERN HIS SPECIALTIES. HE MUST BE A STUDENT THROUGHOUT HIS CAREER AND KEEP ABREAST OF HUMAN PROGRESS.
/+'HAVING BEEN .....
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 198O
4
4’HAVING BEEN ENDOWED MORE OR LESS COMPLETELY WITH QUALIFICATIONS AND CAPACITIES REQUISITE FOR A PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER — (I VENTURE TO SAY THIS MAN IS GOOD FOR ANY JOB I CAN THINK OF!) — AND HAVING DEVELOPED THEM WITH THE AID OF EDUCATIONAL AND OTHER INSTITUTIONS AND CONTACTS PROVIDED BY (AND I LIKE THIS BIT) CIVILISED COMMUNITIES THE ENGINEER IS UNDER OBLIGATION TO CONSIDER THE SOCIOLOGICAL, ECONOMIC AND SPIRITUAL (AND AGAIN THERE IS PLENTY OF EVIDENCE FOR THAT HERE TONIGHT) SPIRITUAL EFFECTS OF ENGINEERING OPERATIONS AND TO AID HIS FELLOWMEN TO ADJUST WISELY THEIR MODES OF LIVING, THEIR INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENTAL PROCEDURES, AND THEIR EDUCATIONAL PROCESSES SO AS TO ENJOY THE GREATEST POSSIBLE BENEFIT FROM THE PROGRESS ACHIEVED THROUGH OUR ACCUMULATING KNOWLEDGE OF THE UNIVERSE AND OURSELVES AS APPLIED BY ENGINEERING. THE ENGINEER'S PRINCIPAL WORK IS TO DISCOVER AND CONSERVE NATURAL RESOURCES OF MATERIALS AND FORCE, INCLUDING THE HUMAN, (DOES THIS PERHAPS «AN GENETIC ENGINEERING OR SOCIAL ENGINEERING? OR SIMPLY BEING A MEMBER OF THE CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH) AND TO CREATE MEANS FOR UTILIZING THESE RESOURCES WITH MINIMAL COST AND WASTE AND WITH MAXIMAL RESULTS (OBVIOUSLY THE FINANCE BRANCH OF THE GOVERNMENT IS STACKED OUT WITH ENGINEERS)?
♦YOU WILL HAVE NOTED THAT ABOUT THE ONLY QUALITY NOT MENTIONED IN THE ENCYCLOPAEDIA BRITTANICA IS ♦MODESTY+l OTHERWISE IT IS A PRETTY COMPREHENSIVE AND DAUNTING SET OF QUALIFICATIONS. IT LEADS KE TO OBSERVE YOU ALL WITH FRESH AND CONSIDERABLE RESPECT « AND IT IS WITH MUCH MODESTY -AND SOME AWE - THAT I NOTE THAT THE VAST MAJORITY OF YOU HERE TONIGHT HAVE CLEARLY IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS FOR A CHIEF SECRETARY. WHEN NEXT WE NEED ONE, WE KNOW WHERE TO COME.
♦NOW, IN THE UNLIKELY EVENT THAT ANY ENGINEER HERE TONIGHT IS BASKING, HAPPILY REPLETE, IN THE SURE KNOWLEDGE HE FITS THE BILL JUST NOW GIVEN - A WORD OF CAUTION ESPECIALLY TO THOSE IN GOVERNMENT. WHILE ENGINEERS FORM ONE OF THE LARGEST IF NOT THE LARGEST PROFESSIONAL CONTINGENTS IN THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE AND DIRECT THE SPENDING OF MORE FUNDS THAN ANY OTHER. SHOULD THEY MAKE A MAJOR MISTAKE (WHICH MAY NOT BECOME APPARENT FOR YEARS) THE PUBLIC MAY THEREAFTER LONG SUFFER THE CONSEQUENCES ... AND COULD SUFFER IRREVOCABLE DISASTER. A SOBERING THOUGHT.
♦BUT TO RETURN TO THAT ALL-EMBRACING DESCRIPTION OF THAT ICLLAVAN ENGINEER OF GEORGIA TECH OR THE POLY OR THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY ... YOU WILL ALSO HAVE NOTICED THAT EMPHASIS IS PLACED AGAIN AND AGAIN ON SOCIOLOGICAL NEEDS, ON THE HARNESSING OF POWER FOR THE BENEFIT OF PEOPLE — THE REMINDER THAT ALL ENGINEERING IN ALL BRANCHES MUST SEEK TO SERVE PEOPLE.
♦CERTAINLY I THINK IT IS SAFE TO SAY THAT NONE OF US, NONE OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, ARE UNAFFECTED BY THE RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS OF OUR ENGINEERS. BUT HONG KONG CAN NEVER AFFORD REALLY TO SIT BACK AND ADMIRE ITS ACHIEVEMENTS! FOR IN THE FACE OF THE SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND, NOT LEAST, DEMOGRAPHIC CHALLENGES WE MUST CONTINUE TO FACE IN THE YEARS TO COME, WE HAVE CONSTANTLY TO MOVE FORWARD AND DEAL WITH CHALLENGES AS THEY ARISE.
/♦FOR EXAMPLE....
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
5
♦FOR EXAMPLE, WE MUST CONTINUE TO BRING NEW AREAS INTO THE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS. MOST OF OUR LAND IS HILLY AND MOUNTAINOUS AND DIFFICULT TO USE - A BLESSING FOR BEAUTY, A PROBLEM FOR SITE-FORMAT I ON- MUCH OF IT CONSISTS OF OUTLYING ISLANDS, DIFFICULT TO GET TO, USUALLY EQUALLY HILLY AND FOR THE MOST PART DEVOID OF WATER SUPPLIES. SO THE OPENING UP OF NEW AREAS USUALLY INVOLVES AN EXPENSIVE PROCESS OF FORMING LAND AND BRINGING IT INTO USE, TOGETHER WITH THE PROVISION OF COSTLY COMMUNICATIONS AND OTHER SERVICES TO LINK IT WITH OTHER AREAS AND THE CHOICE OF DEVELOPMENT OPTIONS HAS NECESSARILY TO BE CAREFULLY AND SYSTEMATICALLY WORKED OUT.
♦THUS DECISIONS HAVE BEEN MADE TO EXTEND SHA TIN INTO THE SO-CALLED AREA B- AND TO DEVELOP JUNK BAY, BOTH FOR HOUSING AND FOR NEW INDUSTRY. CONSIDERATION IS NOW BEING GIVEN TO FURTHER EXTENSIONS TO TUEN MUN, BOTH TO THE EAST AND THE WEST- AND FEASIBILITY STUDIES ARE BEING COMMISSIONED INTO THE DEVELOPMENT POSSIBILITIES OF THE NORTH-WEST AND NORTH-EAST NEW TERRITORIES.
♦SOME OF THE MORE EXCITING POSSIBILITIES UP AHEAD INVOLVE LANTAU. THESE COULD BE TRIGGERED BY A DECISION WITHIN THE NEXT YEAR OR TWO TO DEVELOP A REPLACEMENT AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK ISLAND, OFF THE NORTH OF LANTAU, WITH A CAPACITY WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY EXTEND TO THREE RUNWAYS AND MUCH IN EXCESS OF KAI TAK. SUCH A DECISION WOULD ENTAIL A PARALLEL ONE OF DEVELOPING A FIXED CROSSING TO THE ISLAND THROUGH TSING Yl AND MA WAN IN THE FORM OF A SERIES OF BRIDGES, TOGETHER WITH A MAJOR ROAD ALONG THE NORTH SHORE OF LANTAU AND PERHAPS A LIGHT-RAIL-PUBLIC-TRANSPORT-SYSTEM. THE POSSIBILITIES OF FURTHER LAND-FORMATION BY RECLAMATION AND PLATFORM-FORMING OF THE NORTH WEST PART OF THE ISLAND ARE CONSIDERABLE AND COULD PROVIDE FOR IMPRESSIVE NEW INDUSTRIAL AND HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS. A VALUABLE AND IMPORTANT SPIN-OFF WOULD THEN BE THE RELEASE FROM HEIGHT RESTRICTION OF LAND IN THE AREA OF KAI TAK, INDEED THE OPENING UP OF KAI TAK ITSELF FOR URBAN DEVELOPMENT, PROBABLY WITH FURTHER RECLAMATIONS AND THE POSSIBILITY OF A BRIDGE CROSSING THE HARBOUR TO HONG KONG ISLAND. AND SOME OF OUR LOCAL FINANCIERS ARE ALREADY SUGGESTING THAT THESE DEVELOPMENT POSSIBILITIES COULD MORE THAN PAY FOR THE COST OF THE REPLACEMENT AIRPORT.
♦AS THIS STAGE, MR PRESIDENT, I MUST SAY A FEW WORDS ABOUT HIGHWAYS. THE WORKS OF THE ENGINEERS WHO CONSTRUCT THEM ARE ALL AROUND US AND ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF OUR DAILY LIVES AS WE GO ABOUT OUR BUSINESS, AND WE ALL REJOICE IN THE COMPLETION OF THAT NEW FLY-OVER WHICH OVERCOMES THE BOTTLE-NECK OF PAST YEARS1 NOW WE CAN GET TO THE OFFICE EVEN EARLIER’. THESE DAYS MAJOR CONSTRUCTION WORKS ARE ALWAYS IN HANDi I NEED MENTION ONLY THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL AND ASSOCIATED APPROACH ROADS- THE EAST KOWLOON WAY LEADING TO THE AIRPORT TUNNEL AND KWUN TONG- THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR, TSUEN WAN BY-PASS- THE SECOND HALF OF THE TUEN MUN ROAD AND SO ON AND SO ON. AND IN THE NOT-TOO-DISTANT FUTURE THEY WILL BE JOINED BY THE START OF WORK ON THE ISLAND EAST CORRIDOR ROAD AND THE SHA TIN - TAI PO COASTAL ROAD. ALL OF THEM, AND MORE, ARE BADLY NEEDED.
/+THE OBVIOUS
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
6
♦THE OBVIOUS POINT IS THAT THERE CAN BE NO SUCCESSFUL DEVELOPMENT WITHOUT THE PROVISION OF ADEQUATE COMMUNICATIONSAND, OBVERSELY, THAT GOOD COMMUNICATIONS BRING IN THEIR WAKE THE OPENING UP OF FURTHER POSSIBILITIES FOR DEVELOPMENT. THE NEW TOWNS WILL REQUIRE ADEQUATE ROADS LINKING THEM TO EACH OTHER AND TO THE OLDER URBAN AREA. TO THIS END IT IS ESSENTIAL TO MOVE AHEAD WITH THE LINKS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES’ CIRCULAR ROAD FROM TSUEN WAN TO TUEN MUN, YUEN LONG, FANLING AND SHEUNG SHU I, TAI PO, SHA TIN AND BACK TO TSUEN WAN. LIKEWISE, IF NORTH LANTAU IS DEVELOPED, AS I CONFIDENTLY EXPECT IT WILL BE,EVEN IF THERE IS NOT AN AIRPORT THERE, ROAD SYSTEM AND FIXED CROSSINGS WILL NEED TO BE FIRMLY FITTED INTO THE WESTERN CORRIDOR ROAD SYSTEM.
♦OF COURSE WE ARE NOT GOING TO BE ABLE TO MEET UNLIMITED AND UNRESTRAINED TRAFFIC GROWTH FOR EVER BY EXPANDING THE ROAD SYSTEM. TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS, INCLUDING THE EXTENSION OF AREA TRAFFIC CONTROL SCHEMES, WHICH HAS HAD CONSIDERABLE SUCCESS IN WEST KOWLOON, WILL ALSO BE REQUIRED AND THEY WILL TAX THE INGENUITY OF THE TRAFFIC ENGINEERS TO SQUEEZE THE MAXIMUM OUT OF THE ROAD SPACE AVAILABLE. PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES LIE AHEAD IN THIS FIELD.
♦AS OUR POPULATION BECOMES MORE AFFLUENT IT TRAVELS MORE, BOTH ON BUSINESS AND ON LEISURE, AND IT DEMANDS BETTER STANDARDS OF ITS PUBLIC TRANSPORT. THE MARKET IS THERE FOR THE TAKING FOR THOSE OPERATORS ABLE TO MEET THOSE STANDARDS AT REASONABLE COST^ I HAVE ALREADY SPOKEN OF THE RAIL NETWORK (THE MTR AND THE ELECTRIFIED KCR) WHICH WILL BE THE BACKBONE CF THE SYSTEM IN THE YEARS TO COME. BUT OUR NEW ROAD SYSTEMS, BOTH IN THE URBAN AREAS AND TO AND BETWEEN THE NEW TOWNS, WILL ALSO REQUIRE THE PROVISION OF MORE MODERN, EFFICIENT AND COMFORTABLE BUS SERVICES. THE BUS COMPANIES HAVE AMBITIOUS PLANS TO THIS END WHICH HAVE BEEN AGREED WITH THE GOVERNMENT AND I HOPE THAT IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS RESULTS WILL BEGIN TO SHOW THROUGH MORE AND MORE STRONGLY.
♦I CANNOT LEAVE COMMUNICATIONS WITHOUT MENTIONING ANOTHER DIMENSION THAT IS BEGINNING TO OPEN UP, THAT IS OUR LINKS WITH CHINA. ALREADY HONG KONG AND GUANGZHOU HAVE BEEN BROUGHT CLOSER TOGETHER PHYSICALLY BY THE THROUGH-TRAIN SERVICES, AIR SERVICES, AND THE FERRY AND HOVERFERRY SERVICES. MAJOR NEW INDUSTRIAL ZONES ARE BEING DEVELOPED JUST NORTH OF THE BORDER WHICH ARE BOUND TO DEVELOP LINKS WITH HONG KONG INDUSTRY TO OUR MUTUAL ADVANTAGE. CHINA’S RE-EXPORT AND TRANSHIPMENT TRADE THROUGH HONG KONG IS INCREASING AND WILL CONTINUE TO INCREASE.
♦ALL THIS, AS TIMES GOES ON, WILL REQUIRE AN IMPROVEMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS ACROSS THE BORDER. JUST AS WE ARE MODERNISING AND ELECTRIFYING OUR RAILWAY. THE GUANGZHOU RAILWAY ADMINISTRATION IS CONSIDERING A SIMILAR DEVELOPMENT. IF THIS COMES TO FRUITION, AS I BELIEVE IT WILL, I LOOK FORWARD TO THE DAY WHEN A MODERN ELECTRIC TRAIN, CARRYING THE KCR COLOURS, GOES INTO SERVICE BETWEEN HUNG HOM AND GUANGZHOU.
/+LIKE.7ISS.......
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
7
♦LIKEWISE, THE GUANGDONG AUTHORITIES ARE CONSIDERING PLANS FOR IMPROVING THE ROAD SYSTEM ON THEIR SIDE OF THE BORDER AND, IN DUE COURSE, THAT SYSTEM WILL NEED TO BE BETTER-LINKED WITH OUR OWN NEW TERRITORIES ROAD SYSTEM. THIS MAY MEAN THAT, WITHIN A FEW YEARS, A MAJOR NEW ROADCROSSING WILL BE NEEDED TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE GROWING CROSS-BORDER ROAD TRAFFIC. HERE I NEED HARDLY POINT OUT THE NUMBER OF EXAMPLES IN EUROPE WHERE IMPROVED COMMUNICATIONS ACROSS BORDERS HAS LED TO MUTUALLY REINFORCING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ON BOTH SIDES.
♦THE SCOPE THAT ALL THESE POSSIBILITIES HOLDS OUT TO THE ENGINEERING PROFESSIONAL IN TERMS OF IMAGINATIVE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION IS VAST, VARIED AND EXTREMELY EXCITING. YOU ARE TRULY MEN OF THE FUTURE.
MR PRESIDENT, I HAVE ALMOST DONE. BUT BEFORE I CONCLUDE I SHOULD LIKE TO RETURN TO THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF ALL THE PLANNING AND ENGINEERING DEVELOPMENTS I HAVE TOUCHED ON TONIGHT1 THE HUMAN ASPECT. DURING PERIODS OF CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING SOME, PERHAPS MANY, PEOPLE ARE BOUND TO BE INCONVENIENCED BY NOISE, DIRT, INSTRUSION, EYESORES OR WHAT HAVE YOU. OUR PEOPLE ARE, ON THE WHOLE, VERY PATIENT IN FACING, AND LEARNING TO LIVE WITH, THESE INCONVENIENCES AS PART OF THE PRICE TO BE PAID FOR DEVELOPMENTS FROM WHICH THEY WILL LATER BENEFIT.
♦BUT THIS, NO DOUBT, IS AN OLD STORY TO YOU. MANY, IF NOT MOST, OF YOU HERE ARE ALREADY IN MANAGERIAL POSITIONS AND CAN SEE FULL WELL HOW ENGINEERING UNDERLINES THE SOMETIMES ALMOST FRIGHTENING PACE OF LIFE IN HONG KONG - THE BOOMING FACTORIES, THE PRESS OF PEOPLE AND TRAFFIC, THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE, AND MUSHROOMING CONSTRUCTIONS. AND YOU MUST KNOW, TOO, OF THE POOR UNFORTUNATES AMONGST US WHO CANNOT KEEP UP WITH THE PACE, WHO SLIP THROUGH THE SOMEWHAT MEAGRE SAFETY NETS GOVERNMENT HAS SO FAR BEEN ABLE TO PROVIDE TO CATCH AND HELP THEM. YOU, MORE THAN MOST, COME IN DAILY CONTACT WITH PROBLEMS OF LABOUR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS AND ARE AWARE, MORE THAN MOST, THAT WE NEED NOT ONLY THE EXPERTISE, THE PROFESSIONALISM, THE IDEAS, BUT ALSO THE PEOPLE WHO CARRY OUT THOSE IDEAS - WHO ACTUALLY MAKE, BUILD, DIG, AND SOMETIMES SADLY DIE IN THE ENDEAVOUR.
♦HONG KONG IS FORTUNATE INDEED TO HAVE A QUITE REMARKABLE LABOUR FORCE - FLEXIBLE AND HARD-WORKING. THEY HAVE A RIGHT TO SHARE FAIRLY IN OUR PROSPERITY - A PROSPERITY WHICH THEY HAVE LARGELY HELPED TO CREATE. AS OUR COMMUNITY MATURES, DEMANDS MORE OF A SAY IN OUR AFFAIRS AND EXPECTS A GREATER MEASURE OF SOCIAL EQUALITY, IT IS NATURAL, HEALTHY AND RIGHT THAT ORGANISATIONS WHICH LOOK AFTER THE INTERESTS OF OUR WORKFORCE AND WHICH STRIVE TO IMPROVE LABOUR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS SHOULD FLOURISH AND TAKE THEIR PART IN THE COMMUNITY’S TOTAL EFFORT.
♦AND YOU- REMEMBERING YOUR OBLIGATIONS 'TO CONSIDER THE SOCIOLOGICAL, ECONOMIC AND SPIRITUAL EFFECTS OF YOUR WORK AND TO AID YOUR FELLOWMEN TO ADJUST WISELY THEIR MODES OF LIVING’ WILL CERTAINLY I AM SURE BE THE FIRST TO AGREE THAT IT BEHOVES US AS FAR AS POSSIBLE TO REMEMBER THE PEOPLE, OUR PEOPLE, TO KEEP THEM IN THE PICTURE AS TO WHAT IS BEING DONE AND WHY, AND TO LISTEN CAREFULLY TO THEIR OPINIONS.
AMR PRESIDENT,
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 198O
8
♦MR PRESIDENT. MEMBERS OF THE INSTITUTION, FELLOW GUESTS, I BELIEVE I HAVE SAID ENOUGH! MORE THAN ENOUGH YOU MAY THINK? CERTAINLY ENOUGH I HOPE TO ILLUSTRATE THE IMPORTANCE OF THE ENGINEERING PROFESSION TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG IN MANY SPHERES. I HAVE HARDLY MENTIONED INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS AND HAVE SAID NOTHING, FOR INSTANCE, ON THE MAJOR NEW ELECTRIC POWER STATIONS NOW BEING BUILT. I HAVE NOT MENTIONED THE MATTER CF GOVERNMENT RECOGNITION OF THE INSTITUTION AS A QUALIFYING BODY (ALTHOUGH I DO PROMISE AN ANSWER SOON)I I HAVE NOT MENTIONED SIR MONTY FINNISTON AND HIS RECOMMENDATIONSi ALTHOUGH CF COURSE I AGREE THAT GOVERNMENT HAS A NEED FOR A THRIVING AND ACTIVE INSTITUTION TO - TO USE YOUR OWN WORDS MR PRESIDENT -TO ASSIST BOTH IN DETERMINING THE FUTURE OF ENGINEERING IN HONG KONG AND IN NURTURING, REGULATING AND DISCIPLINING THE FUTURE HONG KONG ENGINEERS. BUT I CAN SAY THAT HONG KONG IS PROUD OF THE CONTRIBUTION TO ITS GROWTH AND TO ITS WELLBEING THAT HAS BEEN MADE BY YOUR PROFESSION, AND IT HOPES WILL LONG CONTINUE TO BE MADE. IN TOKEN OF THIS, I ASK MY FELLOW GUESTS TO BE UPSTANDING AND TO DRINK A TOAST TO THE HONG KONG INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS AND ITS FUTURE GOOD HEALTH AND VITALITY.*
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PUBLIC ASSISTANCE VENDING TO REACH 1550 MILLION IN 1983-84 * * * M K-
THE GOVERNMENT SPENDING ON PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND SPECIAL NEEDS ALLOWANCES IN 1983-84 IS ESTIMATED TO REACH ABOUT 1550 MILLION, REPRESENTING AN EIGHT-FOLD INCREASE OVER 1973-74, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR THOMAS LEE, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF HONG KONG ISLAND WEST, MR LEE SAID PROVISION FOR THE NEXT FINANCIAL YEAR AMOUNTS TO 1475.6 MILLION, OF WHICH 1221.3 MILLION WILL BE SPENT ON PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND 1264.3 MILLION ON SPECIAL NEEDS ALLOWANCES.
HE SAID SOCIAL SECURITY HAS COME A LONG WAY SINCE THE OLD DAYS OF DRY RATIONS AND HAS DEVELOPED SINCE 1971 INTO THE PRESENT CONGLOMERATION OF CASH ASSISTANCE FOR PEOPLE LEAST ABLE TO HELP THEMSELVES.
SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS, HE SAID, ARE NOW AVAILABLE TO MEET BASIC LIVING, SPECIAL NEEDS ARISING OUT OF OLD AGE AND DISABILITY, HARDSHIP RESULTING FROM NATURAL DISASTERS AND TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, AND CLAIMS BY VICTIMS OF CRIMES OF VIOLENCE.
AS FROM NEXT MONTH, MR LEE SAID TWO FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED - THE EXTENSION OF THE DISABILITY ALLOWANCE TO THE PROFOUNDLY DEAF, AND THE INTRODUCTION OF A DISABILITY SUPPLEMENT UNDER THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME FOR THE PARTIALLY DISABLED.
BOTH ARE INTENDED TO PROVIDE EXTRA SUPPORT, ON TOP OF THE NORMAL PUBLIC ASSISTANCE PAYMENT FOR BASIC LIVING, TO THE DISABLED AND THEIR FAMILY TO MEET SPECIAL NEEDS, HE SAID.
THEY WILL BENEFIT AN ESTIMATED 3 800 PROFOUNDLY DEAF PEOPLE WITH A HEARING LOSS OF 85 DECIBELS AND AN ESTIMATED 1 000 PARTIALLY DISABLED PEOPLE WITH A 50 PER CENT LOSS OF EARNING CAPACITY, HE ADDED.
/REVIEWING SOCIAL ..
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
9
REVIEWING SOCIAL SECURITY DEVELOPMENT IN THE PAST DECADE, W LEE SAID PUBLIC ASSISTANCE WAS CONVERTED IN 1971 FROM DRY RATIONS TO CASH ASSISTANCE ON A MEANS-TEST BASIS TO MEET BASIC LIVING, AND WAS EXTENDED IN 1977 TO COVER THE UNEMPLOYED ABLE-BODIED ADULTS WHO COULD NOT SUPPORT THEMSELVES THROUGH NO FAULT OF THEIR OWN.
IN 1978, THE SCHEME WAS FURTHER IMPROVED BY ADDING IN AN OLD AGE SUPPLEMENT FOR THOSE RECIPIENTS AGED 60 AND OVER, AN ANNUAL LONG-TERM SUPPLEMENT TO REPLACE HOUSEHOLD ITEMS FOR ' .OSE RECEIVING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE FOR 12 MONTHS, AND AN INCOME DISREGARD SYSTEM TO PROVIDE AN INCENTIVE FOR THOSE TAKING UP PART-TIME JOBS, HE SAID.
AN INDEPENDENT APPEAL BOARD WAS ALSO SET UP TO PROVIDE A SPEEDY MEANS OF REDRESS FOR ANYONE DISSATISFIED WITH OFFICIAL DECISIONS ON SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS, HE ADDED.
AT PRESENT, HE SAID, MORE THAN 45 600 FAMILIES AND INDIVIDUALS ARE RECEIVING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE, THE PAYMENT RATES OF WHICH ARE REVIEWED AND ADJUSTED FROM TIME TO TIME TO MAINTAIN THEIR REAL PURCHASING VALUE.
REFERRING TO PUBLIC DONATIONS MADE TO HARDSHIP FAMILIES, MR LEE STRESSED THAT PUBLIC ASSISTANCE IS NEVER INTENDED TO BE REPLACED BY DONATIONS.
HE EXPLAINED THAT SINCE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE IS MEANS-TESTED AND FINANCED BY PUBLIC FUNDS, AND TO ENSURE IT IS PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, THERE IS A NEED FOR SOME ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA RELATING TO THE APPLICANT’S FINANCIAL RESOURCES.
GENERALLY, HE SAID, PUBLIC ASSISTANCE PAYMENT IS ONLY TEMPORARILY PREVENTED WHEN THE TOTAL VALUE OF RESOURCES AMOUNTS TO OVER |2 000 PER MEMBER OF A FAMILY OR S3 000 FOR A SINGLE APPLICANT.
HE SAID SMALL AND IRREGULAR DONATIONS FROM FRIENDS OR RELATIVES ARE IGNORED, ALTHOUGH LARGER DONATIONS, PARTICULARLY THOSE FOR A SPECIFIED PERIOD, MAY TEMPORARILY AFFECT PAYMENTS.
♦THE AIM IS TO STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN PUTTING ONE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE RECIPIENT AT AN ADVANTAGE OVER ANOTHER, AND AVOIDING STANDING IN THE WAY OF CHARITABLE HELP,* HE SAID.
AS REGARDS THE HON-MEANS TESTED SPECIAL NEEDS ALLOWANCES SCHEME, MR LEE SAID IT WAS INTRODUCED IN 1973, COMPRISING THE DISABILITY ALLOWANCE FOR SEVERELY DISABLED PEOPLE AND THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE FOR PEOPLE AGED 70 AND OVER.
HE SAID BOTH ALLOWANCES WERE EXTENDED IN 1978 TO COVER ELIGIBLE PERSONS LIVING IN INSTITUTIONS.
TODAY, THE DISABILITY ALLOWANCE OF $230 A MONTH IS BEING PAID TO 23 000 PEOPLE, WHILST 145 000 ARE RECEIVING THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE OF $115 A MONTH, HE SAID.
OTHER SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS INCLUDE A SCHEME INTRODUCED IN 1973 TO PROVIDE CASH COMPENSATION FOR PEOPLE INJURED OR KILLED IN A CRIME OF VIOLENCE OR THROUGH THE ACTION OF A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER WHILST CARRYING OUT HIS DUTIES, ANOTHER SCHEME IMPLEMENTED LAST YEAR TO GIVE QUICK CASH RELIEF TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS OR THEIR DEPENDANTS REGARDLESS OF WHO WAS AT FAULT IN CAUSING THE ACCIDENT, AS WELL AS EMERGENCY RELIEF IN THE FORM OF CASH GRANTS, COOKED MEALS, BLANKETS, MATS AND OTHER DAILY NECESSITIES FOR PEOPLE AFFECTED BY NATURAL DISASTERS.
------0------- /10.....................
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
10
MAJOR CONTRACT SIGNED FOR KCR MODERNISATION SCHEME ******
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) AWARDED THE BIGGEST SINGLE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT SO FAR UNDER THE MODERNISATION AND ELECTRIFICATION SCHEME OF THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY.
THE CONTRACT WORTH $101.8 MILLION IS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A RAILWAY DEPOT AT HO TUNG LAU, SHA TIN.
IT WENT TO LEIGHTON CONTRACTORS PTY LTD OF AUSTRALIA.
THE CONTRACT WAS SIGNED THIS AFTERNOON BY MR WONG MANG-KI, PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT CIVIL ENGINEER OF PWD’S CIVIL ENGINEERING OFFICE AND MR HARRY CHARITON FOR THE COMPANY.
THE DEPOT, WHEN COMPLETED IN ABOUT TWO YEARS, WILL PROVIDE FACILITIES FOR THE MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING OF THE NEW ROLLING STOCK.
WORK ON THE CONTRACT WILL INCLUDE SITE FORMATION, TRACK LAYING, CONSTRUCTION OF A LARGE MAINTENANCE SHED, CARRIAGE WASHING PLANT, OFFICES AND OTHER MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL ANCILLARY WORKS.
THE DEPOT SITE IS BOUNDED BY THE KCR MAIN LINE AND THE EXISTING DUAL CARRIAGEWAY TO TAI PO, AND LIES BETWEEN FO TAN AND THE NEW RACE COURSE STATION.
THE WORK FOR THE DEPOT HAS BEEN DESIGNED. AND THE CONSTRUCTION WILL BE SUPERVISED BY TRANSMARK (A WHOLLY OWNED SUBSIDIARY OF BRITISH RAIL), UNDER THE OVERALL SUPERVISION OF THE CONSULTANT MANAGEMENT DIVISION OF THE CIVIL ENGINEERING OFFICE OF PWD.
THE LATEST CONTRACT BROUGHT THE $2 000 MILLION MODERNISATION AND ELECTRIFICATION SCHEME OF KCR ONE STEP CLOSER TO REALITY.
EARLIER THIS MONTH, A $44.8 MILLION CONTRACT WAS AWARDED BY PWD FOR THE DESIGN, SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF A HIGH VOLTAGE (25 KV) OVERHEAD LINE.
THIS CONTRACT, ON WHICH WORK IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED BY LATE 1982, WAS AWARDED TO THE BRITISH FIRM, BALFOUR BEATTY POWER CONSTRUCTION LTD.
MEANWHILE, WORK IS PROGRESSING ON A 2.7-HECTARE PODIUM DECK WHICH IS BEING BUILT OVER PART OF THE DEPOT AT HO TUNG LAU.
A LARGE PRIVATE HOUSING COMPLEX, CAPABLE OF ACCOMMODATING SOME 13 000 PEOPLE, WILL GO UP ON THE UPPER LEVELS OF THE PODIUM.
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FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
11
INCREASES IN COMPENSATION FOR RESUMED LAND IN NT * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) ANNOUNCED INCREASES IN ITS COMPENSATION RATES FOR LAND RESUMED IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
FROM APRIL 1, OWNERS OF RESUMED AGRICULTURAL LAND WITHIN NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT AREAS WILL BE COMPENSATED AT THE NEW FULL RATE OF *63 PER SQUARE FOOT INSTEAD OF *59 PER SQUARE FOOT - AN INCREASE OF ABOUT SEVEN PER CENT.
THE EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCE OFFERED TO OWNERS OF RESUMED BUILDING LAND WITHIN NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT AREAS WILL BE AT THE NEW FULL RATE OF *135 PER SQUARE FOOT INSTEAD OF *125 PER SQUARE FOOT -AN INCREASE OF ABOUT 7-1/2 PER CENT.
GIVING DETAILS OF THE NEW RATES TODAY, THE PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT LAND AGENT OF THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, W F.D. ROOME, SAID THEY HAD BEEN DRAWN UP IN LINE WITH GOVERNMENT’S POLICY OF CONDUCTING HALF-YEARLY REVIEWS OF COMPENSATION RATES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE POLICY WAS ADOPTED ON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE WORKING GROUP ON NEW TERRITORIES URBAN LAND ACQUISITION HEADED BY SIR YUET-KEUNG KAN.
MR ROOME SAID THE NEW RATES WOULD BE EFFECTIVE UP TO SEPTEMBER 3D THIS YEAR, WHEN A FURTHER REVIEW WOULD BE CARRIED OUT.
HE POINTED OUT THAT, UNDER THE REVISED GOVERNMENT LAND RESUMPTION POLICY IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, OWNERS OF RESUMED LAND OUTSIDE THE NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT AREAS WOULD BE COMPENSATED AT A PROPORTIONATE PERCENTAGE OF THE NEW FULL RATES DEPENDING ON THE LOCATION OF THE LAND RESUMED. AND MORE PARTICULARLY AS DEFINED ON A ZONAL PLAN AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION BY THE PUBLIC AT EACH CF THE EIGHT DISTRICT OFFICES OF THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION.
- u —
TSUEN WAN ARTS FESTIVAL ENDS * * * *
THE SECOND TSUEN WAN ARTS FESTIVAL HAS ENDED SUCCESSFULLY WITH AN AVERAGE ATTENDANCE RATE OF 93 PER CENT.
DURING THE FESTIVAL PERIOD FROM FEBRUARY 23 TO MARCH 16, MORE THAN 31 000 TICKETS WERE SOLD FOR THE 27 PERFORMANCES HELD IN THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL. OF THESE PERFORMANCES, 21 WERE FULL HOUSES.
A TOTAL OF 48 EVENTS WERE STAGED AT THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL, BOTH IN THE TOWN HALL AND AT OUTDOOR VENUES, COMPARED WITH 36 LAST YEAR.
THE CLOSING OF THE SECOND TSUEN WAN ARTS FESTIVAL WAS MARKED BY A PERFORMANCE BY THE CHINESE ORCHESTRA LAST SUNDAY (MARCH 16).
/AMONG THE
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
12
AMONS THE MANY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FESTIVAL WERE CONCERTS BY THE NEW ZEALAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, THE ORCHESTRA THE HONG KONG YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA, THE LIM KEK S$N CONCERT ORCHESTRA, THE CHINESE ORCHESTRA AND THE HONG KONG CHILDREN’S CHOIR.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS WERE THE TRADITIONAL CANTONESE OPERA PRODUCTIONS, THE COLOGNE MIME THEATRE OF WEST GERMANY, CANTONESE DRAMA AND FOLK DANCES.
THE OUTDOOR PERFORMANCES HAVE ALSO BEEN WELL RECEIVED AND WITH THE WIDE EXTENSION OF VENUES, THEY ATTRACTED GREATER ATTENDANCE COMPARED WITH LAST YEAR.
THERE WERE FOUR EXHIBITIONS HELD DUR ING THE FESTIVAL. THE ANCIENT CHINESE COIN EXHIBITION PROVED TO BE. THE MOST POPULAR WITH MORE THAN 190 000 VISITORS. THE 6UAN6XU IMPERIAL PORCELAIN EXHIBITION WHICH WILL END ON APRIL 20 HAS SO FAR ATTRACTED A TOTAL OF 124 000 PEOPLE.
THE FESTIVAL WAS PRESENTED JOINTLY BY THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD, THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL, THE TSUEN WAN CULTURE AND RECREATION CO-ORDINATING ASSOCIATION AND THE MUSIC OFFICE.
- - - - o ----------
ID CARD - A MUST IN SAI KUNG COUNTRY PARKS ft * ft ft *
THE GOVERNOR-IN-COUNCIL HAS MADE AN ORDER DESIGNATING SAI KUNG EAST AND SAI KUNG WEST COUNTRY PARKS AND VILLAGES WITHIN THE GENERAL PARK BOUNDARIES AS AREAS WHERE MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MUST CARRY THEIR IDENTITY CARDS AND PRODUCE THEM FOR INSPECTION ON DEMAND BY THE SECURITY FORCES.
THE ORDER, PUBLISHED IN TODAY’S GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WILL COME INTO EFFECT ON FRIDAY, MARCH 28.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE COMPULSORY CARRYING OF IDENTITY CARDS IN DESIGNATED AREAS WAS TO HELP THE SECURITY FORCES IDENTIFY ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
♦ AT THE SAME TIME, IT ALSO REDUCES INCONVENIENCE TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC OF BEING QUESTIONED DURING ANTI-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION OPERATIONS IN THESE AREAS,♦ HE SAID.
OTHER AREAS PREVIOUSLY DESIGNATED ARE PING CHAU ISLAND IN MIRS BAY, THE FRONTIER CLOSED AREA AND THE MAI PO BIRD SANCTUARY.
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FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
13
SUPERVISION SCHEME FOR YOUNG OFFENDERS PROPOSED *****
THE GOVERNMENT WILL SOON INTRODUCE INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL A BILL PROVIDING FOR THE SUPERVISION OF CERTAIN YOUNG OFFENDERS ON THEIR RELEASE FROM PRISON.
THE CRIMINAL PROCEDURE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1980 WAS PUBLISHED TODAY (FRIDAY) IN THE GOVERNENT GAZETTE.
A GOVERNENT SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT NEW SECTIONS IN THE BILL INCLUDEi
* PROVIDING FOR THE MAKING OF SUPERVISION ORDERS, AND
* PROVIDING FOR THE MAKING OF RECALL ORDERS WHERE SUPERVISION ORDERS ARE BROKEN.
THE BILL PROPOSES A SCHEME OF SUPERVISION FOR PERSONS WHO, BEFORE THEIR 21ST BIRTHDAY, ARE SENTENCED TO IMPRISONMENT FOR THREE MONTHS OR MORE AND WHO ARE RELEASED BEFORE THE AGE OF 25.
THE SPOKESMAN SAIDt +THE EFFECT OF THIS SCHEME WOULD BE TO MAKE THE OFFENDER THE SUBJECT OF SUPERVISION FOR UP TO 12 MONTHS FROM THE DATE OF HIS RELEASE. DISOBEDIENCE OF THE TERMS OF HIS SUPERVISION WOULD RENDER HIM LIABLE TO BE RECALLED TO PRISON.*
HE EXPLAINED THAT UNDER EXISTING ARRANGEMENTS YOUNG PERSONS SENTENCED TO IMPRISONMENT ARE NOT SUBJECT TO SUPERVISION AFTER RELEASE.
♦THE PROPOSED SCHEME WOULD OPERATE ON A SIMILAR BASIS TO THE EXISTING SCHEMES FOR THE SUPERVISION AND, IF NECESSARY, RECALL OF FORMER INMATES OF TRAINING CENTRES, DETENTION CENTRES AND DRUG ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRES WHERE SUPERVISION HAS PROVED TO BE A USEFUL AID TO REHABILITATION OF OFFENDERS,♦ SAID THE SPOKESMAN.
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NEW POST OFFICE AT MORRISON HILL *****
A NEW POST OFFICE ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF 01 KWAN COURT, 28 01 KWAN ROAD, MORRISON HILL, WILL OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AT 9 AM ON MONDAY (MARCH 24).
THE OFFICE KNOWN AS THE MORRISON HILL POST OFFICE WILL REPLACE THE PRESENT MORRISON HILL ROAD POST OFFICE WHICH WILL CLOSE FOR BUSINESS AT 1 PM TOMORROW (SATURDAY).
THE NEW POST OFFICE WILL OPERATE IN LARGER ACCOMMODATION. APART FROM NORMAL COUNTER FACILITIES, IT WILL ALSO PROVIDE 300 NEW POST OFFICE BOXES TO MEET THE PUBLIC DEMAND.
THE TELEPHONE NUMBER (5-737713) AND HOURS OF BUSINESS OF THE POST OFFICE WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED.
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
14
TENDERS INVITED FOR SHOPS AT AIRPORT
* * * *
TENDERS ARE BEING INVITED FOR THE TENANCIES OF FOUR RETAIL SHOPS IN THE DEPARTURES HALL OF THE PASSENGER TERMINAL AT KAI TAK AIRPORT.
THESE SHOP SPACES ARE FOR THE SALE OF PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENTRADIO AND ELECTRICAL ITEMS- JEWELLERY- AND TOBACCO, CIGARETTES AND CONFECTIONERY RESPECTIVELY.
THE TENANCIES OF THE SHOPS WILL BE FOR ONE YEAR COMMENCING ON OR ABOUT MAY 15, 1980, AND THEREAFTER ON MONTH-TO-MONTH BASIS.
TENDERS MUST BE PLACED IN THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT TENDER BOX AT THE ENTRANCE HALL OF MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, BEFORE 12 NOON ON FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 1980.
EACH TENDER MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A RECEIPT SHOWING THAT THE TENDERER HAS DEPOSITED WITH THE TREASURY A SUM OF |10 000 AS A PLEDGE OF HIS BONA FIDES.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS ARE OBTAINABLE AT THE HEADQUARTERS OF CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT, NEW RODNEY BLOCK, QUEENSWAY, OR AT KAI TAK AIRPORT.
-------o----------
TWO KOWLOON MAXICAB ROUTINGS REVISED *****
THE ROUTINGS OF KOWLOON MAX ICAB ROUTES 11 AND 12 WILL BE REVISED FROM SUNDAY (MARCH 23).
UNDER THE NEW ARRANGEMENTS ROUTE 11 ON JOURNEY FROM YAU YAT CHUEN TO MONG KOK (FIFE STREET) WILL OPERATE VIA CASSIA ROAD, BEGONIA ROAD, TAT CHEE AVENUE, TAI HANG TUNG ROAD, BOUNDARY STREET, KNIGHT STREET, PRINCE EDWARD ROAD, SAI YEE STREET, MONG KOK ROAD, SAI YEUNG CHOI STREET AND FIFE STREET.
ON JOURNEY FROM MONG KOK (FIFE STREET) TO YAU YAT CHUEN IT WILL OPERATE VIA FIFE STREET, SAI YEE STREET, BOUNDARY STREET, TAI HANG TUNG ROAD, TAT CHEE AVENUE, OSMANTHUS ROAD, MARIGOLD ROAD, MAGNOLIA ROAD AND CASSIA ROAD.
TWO MAXICABS ARE OPERATING ON THIS ROUTE FROM 7 AM TO 10.25 PM DAILY AT A FREQUENCY OF 15 MINUTES DURING PEAK PERIOD AND 30 MINUTES OFF-PEAK.
FROM SUNDAY, MAX ICAB ROUTE 12 ON JOURNEY FROM PAK TIN TO TAI TUNG SUN CHUEN WILL OPERATE VIA PAK WAN STREET, PAK TIN STREET, NAM CHEONG STREET, TAI HANG SAI STREET, TAI HANG TUNG ROAD, BOUNDARY STREET, KNIGHT STREET, PRINCE EDWARD ROAD, SAI YEE STREET, ARGYLE STREET, PORTLAND STREET, MONG KOK ROAD, ANCHOR STREET, ASH STREET, FUK TSUN STREET, IVY STREET, TAI CHING STREET AND TAI TSUN STREET.
/ON JOURNEY .....
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
15
ON JOURNEY FROM TAI TUNG SUN CHUEN JO *AK TIN IT WILL BE VIA TAI TSUN STREET, TAI KOK TSUI ROAD, FMJSUN 5TREET, MONG KOK ROAD, SAI YEUNG CHOI STREET, FIFE STREET, TUNG CHOI STREET, ARGYLE STREET, KADOORIE AVENUE, PRINCE E?*ARD ROAD, EMBANKMENT ROAD, BOUNDARY STREET, TAI HANG TUNG ROAD, TAI HANG SAI STREET, NAM CHEONG STREET, £aK TIN STREET AND PAK WAN STREET.
FIVE MAX ICABS ARE OPERATING ON THIS ROUTE FROM 6.50 AM TO 11.35 PM AT A FREQUENCY OF 10 MINUTES DURING PEAK PERIOD AND 20 MINUTES OFF-PEAK.
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COURSE FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHERS * ft ft *
A CAMP LEADER'S COURSE HAS BEEN ORGANISED FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHERS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
THE COURSE ORGANISED BY THE PHYSICAL EDUCATION SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WILL BE CONDUCTED AT PUI CHOI SCHOOL, PAK TAM CHUNG, SAI KUNG, NEW TERRITORIES FOR FIVE DAYS, FROM APRIL 8 TO 12.
THE COURSE AIMS TO PROVIDE TEACHERS WITH INFORMATION ON 'LIGHT WEIGHT' CAMPING. APPLICANTS ARE REQUIRED TO STAY OVERNIGHT AT DIFFERENT CAMP SITES.
THE COURSE WILL GIVE THE PARTICIPANTS AN INSIGHT INTO CAMP ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT. MOUNTAIN SAFETY PRECAUTIONS. MAP AND COMPASS READING, CAMP CRAFT AND CHOICE OF CAMPING EQUIPMENT. IT WILL ALSO INCLUDE THREE DAYS HIKING IN SAI KUNG AND DUKE OF EDINBURGH'S AWARD SCHEME EXPEDITION INSTRUCTOR/ASSESSOR TRAINING.
THE NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS WILL BE LIMITED TO 36 WITH PRIORITY GIVEN TO THOSE WHO POSSESS VALID FIRST AID QUALIFICATIONS.
APPLICANTS ARE REQUESTED TO RETURN THE APPLICATION FORMS BEFORE MARCH 26, TO PRINCIPAL INSPECTOR (PHYSICAL EDUCATION), (ATTNi MR FRANCIS CHIU), PHYSICAL EDUCATION SECTION, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, SIXTH FLOOR, 405 NATHAN ROAD.
----—0 -------
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN YAU.MA TEI ft ft ft ft ft
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE INTRODUCED IN YAU MA TEI FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (MARCH 24) TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW IN THE AREA.
UNDER THE ARRANGEMENTS, VEHICLES ON SOUTHBOUND JOURNEY ALONG NATHAN ROAD WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM MAKING RIGHT TURN INTO KANSU STREET. AT THE SAME TIME THE RIGHT-TURN BAN FROM NATHAN ROAD SOUTHBOUND TO JORDAN ROAD WILL BE LIFTED.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 1980
16
FIRING PRACTICE * * * *
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE HA TSUEN-CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON 17 DAYS NEXT MONTH.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WARNED NOT TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN RED FLAGS ARE FLYING DURING THE TIME OF PRACTICE.
THE PRACTISING TIMES AREt DATE
APRIL 2 (WEDNESDAY) APRIL 3 (THURSDAY) APRIL 8 (TUESDAY) APRIL 9 (WEDNESDAY) APRIL 10 (THURSDAY) APRIL 11 (FRIDAY) APRIL 14 (MONDAY) APRIL 15 (TUESDAY) APRIL 16 (WEDNESDAY) APRIL 17 (THURSDAY) APRIL 18 (FRIDAY) APRIL 22 (TUESDAY) APRIL 23 (WEDNESDAY) APRIL 24 (THURSDAY) APRIL 25 (FRIDAY) APRIL 28 (MONDAY) APRIL 30 (WEDNESDAY)
TIME
8 AM - 5 PM
8 AM - 5 PM
8 AM - 5 PM
8 AM - 5 PM
8 AM - 6 PM
8 AM - 6 PM
8 AM - 6 PM
8 AM - 6 PM
8 AM - 6 PM
8 AM - 6 PM
8 AM - 6 PM
8.30 AM - 11 PM
8.30 AM - 4.30 PM
8.30 AM - 11 PM
8.30 AM - 4.30 PM
8 AM- 4.30 PM
1 PM - 10 PM
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
Saturday, march 22, 1980
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
AUXILIARY FLYERS HAVE BUSY YEAR ..............
IN-SERVICE TRAINING FCR STaFF OF MARINE DEPARTMENT
KWAI CHUNG GAMES HALL REaDY IN SEPTEMBER
3
final work on typhoon shelter .................
GOOD EDUCATION PROSPECTS FOR FISHERMEN'S CHILDREN .............. 5
NT SCHOOLS RECEIVE BOOKS ON NATURE r
............•*•••••••••••••• o
firing practice
6
SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 1980
1
AUXILIARY FLYERS HAVE BtfSY YEAR
******
THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE WENT THROUGH A ICCTIC PERIOD LAST YEAR, CONTRIBUTING TO A RECORD TOTAL OF 2 890 HOURS OF ANTI-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION, EMERGENCY AND RESCUE OPERATIONS, AS WELL AS OTHER PUBLIC SERVICE TASKS.
THE CALL-OUTS REPRESENT AN INCREASE OF 11.6 PER CENT, COMPARED WITH A TOTAL OF 2 590 FLYING HOURS IN 1978.
DURING THE YEAR, THE FORCE CARRIED OUT MORE THAN 571 FLYING HOURS IN ANTI-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION AND VIETNAMESE REFUGEES OPERATIONS OVER THE BORDER AREA AND THE SOUTH CHINA SEA, SAID STAFF OFFICER OF THE RHKAAF, SON.-LEADER JOHN SHAWCROSS TODAY (SATURDAY).
THESE OPERATIONS, CONDUCTED JOINTLY WITH THE POLICE, WERE TIME-CONSUMING AND DEMANDING.
DURING THE HEIGHT OF THE VIETNAMESE REFUGEES INFLUX, NON-STOP LONG-RANGE FLIGHTS WERE CARRIED OUT DAILY OVER THE SOUTH CHINA SEA TO SPOT SUSPECTED HUMAN-CARGO VESSELS APPROACHING HONG KONG.
THE MISSIONS WOULD USUALLY TAKE A WHOLE DAY, COVERING AN AREA AS FAR AS 480 KM FROM HONG KONG. HOWEVER, THEY WERE THE MOST POSITIVE AND MOST EFFECTIVE MEANS OF SURVEILLANCE.
AS FOR ANTI-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION OPERATIONS, MR SHAWCROSS SAID DAILY DAWN SEARCHES ALONG HONG KONG'S COASTLINE FOR THE LAST 15 MONTHS HAD CONTRIBUTED TO THE ROUNDING UP OF THOUSANDS OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
WHILE THESE LARGE-SCALE OPERATIONS WERE GOING ON, THE FORCE CONTINUED TO MAN ROUND-THE-CLOCK EMERGENCY FLIGHTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.
A TOTAL OF 140 PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM VARIOUS MEDICAL EMERGENCIES REQUIRING IMMEDIATE HOSPITAL ATTENTION WERE EVACUATED BY RHKAAF FLIGHTS FROM INACCESSIBLE AND OUTLYING ISLANDS.
IN ADDITION, 10 SEARCH AND RESCUE FLIGHTS FOR LOST OR INJURED HIKERS AND PICNICKERS WERE CARRIED OUT. THREE MAJOR OFFSHORE SEARCH AND RESCUE FLIGHTS WERE UNDERTAKEN WITH THE NEW TITAN FIXED-WING AIRCRAFT.
ON ONE OCCASION DURING THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS, THE RHKAAF RESPONDED TO FOUR CASUALTY EVACUATION CALLS WITHIN A SINGLE DAY.
THE FORCE ALSO HELPED FIRE SERVICES AND AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES PERSONNEL IN COMBATTING FORESTRY FIRES BY DROPPING •♦WATER BOMBS* ON THE BLAZES.
/WITH A .....
SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 1980
2
WITH A FLEET OF SIX AIRCRAFT — A TWIN-ENGINED CESSNA 404 TITAN, A TWIN-ENGINED BRITTEN-NORMAN ISLANDER, TWO SCOTTISH AVIATION BULLDOG TRAINERS AND TWO ALOUETTE MARK III HELICOPTERS — RHKAAF PILOTS AND CREWMEN PROVIDED MANY OTHER FLYING TASKS DURING THE YEAR.
THESE INCLUDED ROUTINE SATURDAY MORNING FLYING DOCTOR AND FLYING DENTIST SERVICES. POST-TYPHOON RECONNAISSANCE SERVICES, FLYING TRAINING FOR AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS OF THE CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT, AND AERIAL SURVEYS AND PHOTOGRAPHY FOR MAP-MAKING AS WELL AS DEVELOPMENT PLANNING BY THE CROWN LAND AND SURVEY OFFICE.
LAST YEAR, THE FORCE SAW EXPANSION IN MANY AREAS WITH THE OPENING OF A NEW HEADQUARTERS IN MARCH ON THE KOWLOON BAY RECLAMATION.
THE NEW HEADQUARTERS, WHICH INCORPORATES MODERN SECURITY EQUIPMENT, A HELIPORT, AIRCRAFT SERVICING BAYS AND ADMINISTRATION ACCOMMODATION, MEANS HONG KONG’S OWN ♦AIR FORCE* HAS BECOME FULLY INDEPENDENT IN AIR OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE.
♦UPON RECEIVING AN EMERGENCY CALL DURING NORMAL WORKING HOURS, AIRCREW AT THE HEADQUARTERS CAN GET A HELICOPTER AIRBORNE WITHIN FIVE MINUTES AND ARRIVE AT ANY REGULAR LANDING SITE ANYWHERE IN THE TERRITORY WITHIN 20 MINUTES AFTER TAKE-OFF,♦ MR SHAWCROSS SAID. OVERNIGHT, THIS RESPONSE TIME IS EXTENDED BY ABOUT 20 MINUTES.
IN AUGUST LAST YEAR, WITH THE DELIVERY OF A TWIN-ENGINED TITAN AIRCRAFT, THE FORCE HAS STRENGTHENED ITS AERIAL SURVEILLANCE AS WELL AS SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS AT SEA.
FURTHER ORDERS HAVE BEEN PLACED FOR THREE NEW HELICOPTERS — 365-C DAUPHIN MARK 2S — FROM FRANCE TO REPLACE THE ALOUETTE HELICOPTERS NOW BEING USED.
THE NEW HELICOPTERS ARE 14-SEAT, 1WIN-ENGINED AIRCRAFT AND ARE EXPECTED TO BE DELIVERED IN JUNE THIS YEAR.
THEY ARE FASTER AND HAVE A MUCH GREATER RANGE THAN THE EXISTING ONES AND THEIR INTRODUCTION WILL WIDEN THE SCOPE OF RHKAAF OPERATIONS.
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/3
SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 1980
- 3 -
IN-SERVICE TRAINING FOR STAFF OF MARINE DEPARTMENT
X £ 4 X X X X
THE MARINE DEPARTMENT’S NAUTICAL TRAINING SCHOOL WILL HOLD A SERIES OF IN-SERVICE TRAINING COURSES FOR COXSWAINS AND LAUNCH MECHANICS OF THE DEPARTMENT.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY THE IN-SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAMME FOR THIS YEAR INCLUDES 14 NAVIGATION AND 10 ENGINEERING COURSES FOR BOTH DECK HANDS AND ENGINE ROOM RATINGS. EIGHT ARE REFRESHER COURSES AND 16 LEAD TO EXAMINATIONS FOR CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCY.
HE SAID COURSES ARE HELD AT SUITABLE INTERVALS TO ENABLE THE DEPARTMENT’S ’FLOATING STAFF’ TO UP-DATE THEIR MARITIME KNOWLEDGE SO AS TO ENSURE SAFETY AT SEA, AND TO ATTAIN THE HIGHER STANDARDS REQUIRED FOR PROMOTION WITHIN THEIR GRADES.
IN ADDITION, THE SPOKESMAN SAID, THE NAUTICAL TRAINING SCHOOL ALSO ORGANISES TALKS ON SPECIAL TOPICS EVERY YEAR.
THE SCHOOL WILL HOLD A ONE-DAY SEMINAR ON MONDAY (MARCH 24) ON A NEW MARITIME BUOYAGE SYSTEM WHICH WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN APRIL THIS YEAR.
♦THE SEMINAR WILL BE FOR THE BENEFIT OF OUR OWN STAFF AS WELL AS WATER-BORNE OPERATION PERSONNEL FROM OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS INCLUDING THE FIRE SERVICES, CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE AND PWD'S PORT WORKS DIVISION.♦
KWAI CHUNG GAMES HALL READY IN SEPTEMBER * * * *
THE |6.4 MILLION KWAI CHUNG INDOOR GAMES HALL, WHICH WILL PROVIDE MUCH NEEDED SPORTS FACILITIES TO RESIDENTS OF TSUEN WAN NEW TOWN, WILL BE READY IN SIX MONTHS.
WORK ON THE SUPERSTRUCTURE OF THE GAMES HALL HAS VIRTUALLY BEEN COMPLETED AND CONTRACTORS OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT ARE PROCEEDING WITH WORK ON THE STEEL-FRAMED ROOF STRUCTURE.
THE PROJECT, JOINTLY FINANCED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL AND A MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC, MR O.R. SADICK, IS KNOWN AS THE OSMAN RAMJU SADICK MEMORIAL HALL.
/OCCUPYING AN .....
SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 1980
4
OCCUPYING AN AREA OF SOME 2 400 SQUARE METRES, THE GAMES HALL IS LOCATED AT THE JUNCTION OF HING FONG ROAD AND KWAI ON ROAD NEAR KWAI FONG ESTATE.
MR JOHN LAINE, PWD’S PROJECT ARCHITECT, SAID THE HALL HAD A CENTRAL GAMES AREA CAPABLE OF ACCOMMODATING TWO BASKETBALL COURTS OR THREE VOLLEYBALL COURTS OR EIGHT BADMINTON COURTS, AND A GRANDSTAND FOR 300 SPECTATORS.
IN ADDITION, HE SAID, THERE WOULD BE CHANGING ROOMS AND TOILETS, OFFICES, A SEPARATE GAMES ROOM, TRAINING ROOM AND A TABLE-TENNIS ROOM.
THE HALL WILL BE HANDED OVER TO THE URBAN COUNCIL FOR MANAGEMENT ON COMPLETION IN SEPTEMBER.
- - 0 - -
FINAL WORK ON TYPHOON SHELTER
*****
WORK WILL START SHORTLY ON THE FINAL STAGE OF THE NEW $40 MILLION CHEUNG CHAU TYPHOON SHELTER.
TENDERS FOR THE WORK ARE NOW BEING INVITED BY THE PWD CIVIL ENGINEERING OFFICE.
MR TSANG NAI-LOK, CHIEF ENGINEER OF THE PORT WORKS DIVISION, SAID ON COMPLETION OF THE PROJECT, A GROSS TYPHOON SHELTER AREA OF SOME 63 HECTARES WOULD BE PROVIDED.
IT WOULD MEET THE DEMAND FOR SHELTERED ANCHORAGE IN THE SOUTHWESTERN APPROACHES TO HONG KONG HARBOUR, HE ADDED.
WORK ON THE CONTRACT WILL BEGIN IN JUNE AND TAKE TWO YEARS TO COMPLETE. IT INVOLVES THE CONSTRUCTION OF THREE RUBBLE BREAKWATERS AT CHEUNG CHAU WAN AT THE WEST SIDE OF THE ISLAND.
THESE RUBBLE BREAKWATERS WILL BE ABOUT 600 METRES, 320 METRES AND 230 METRES LONG RESPECTIVELY AND WILL REST ON FOUNDATIONS WHICH ARE NEAR COMPLETION.
MR TSANG POINTED OUT THAT THE POSITION OF THESE BREAKWATERS HAD BEEN DETERMINED AFTER CONSULTATION WITH THE CHEUNG CHAU RURAL COMMITTEE AND WAS AGREEABLE TO THE LOCAL PEOPLE, INCLUDING THE FISHERMEN BASED ON CHEUNG CHAU.
ASSOCIATED WORKS UNDER THE CONTRACT WILL INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF 13 MOORING DOLPHINS AND FOUR LIGHT BEACONS WITHIN THE TYPHOON SHELTER.
- - 0 - -
SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 1980
5
GOOD EDUCATION PROSPECTS FOR FISHERMEN’S CHILDREN ft * * ft ft
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR JOHN RIDDELL-SWAN PREDICTED TODAY THAT THE STANDARD OF EDUCATION AMONG FISHERMEN’S CHILDREN WILL ^MARKEDLY IMPROVE.*
AT AN ANNUAL FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION SCHOOL’S LUNCHEON MR RIDDELL-SWAN SAID THE FUTURE OF THE FISHING COMMUNITY IS TO A GREAT EXTENT IN THE HANDS OF THE FMO TEACHERS *AS ITS DESTINY DEPENDS HEAVILY UPON THE PROVISION OF A SOUND EDUCATION FOR THE CHILDREN WHO WILL IN TIME BE ITS MEMBERS AND LEADERS.*
MR RIDDELL-SWAN PAID TRIBUTE TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FMO SCHOOLS BY FORMER DIRECTOR, MR TED NICHOLS, AND SPOKE OF THE SCHOOLS’ IMPROVEMENT TO THE EDUCATION OF THE FISHING COMMUNITY DURING THE PAST 35 YEARS.
BUT HE ADDEDi +WE MUST, HOWEVER, MAINTAIN OUR EFFORTS TO IMPROVE THE ACADEMIC STANDARDS OF OUR STUDENTS.*
TO THIS END, HE SAID, THE SECONDARY SCHOOL AT ABERDEEN EXTENDED ITS COURSE TO FIVE YEARS AND SCHOLARSHIPS ARE MADE AVAILABLE TO ENABLE FISHERMEN’S CHILDREN TO CONTINUE TO ATTEND OTHER SECONDARY SCHOOLS BEYOND THE FORM 3 LEVEL.
♦ADDITIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS ARE NOW ALSO AVAILABLE TO ALLOW OUTSTANDING STUDENTS, WHO FOR FINANCIAL REASONS MAY BE PRECLUDED FROM FURTHERING THEIR EDUCATION IN UNIVERSITIES AND TERTIARY COLLEGES.
♦WITH THESE FACILITIES AND WITH THE PROVISION OF FREE SECONDARY EDUCATION UP TO FORM 3 LEVEL, I FEEL THAT THE STANDARDS OF EDUCATION AMONG FISHERMEN’S CHILDREN WILL MARKEDLY IMPROVE,♦ SAID MR RIDDELL-SWAN.
o -------
/6
SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 1980
6
NT SCHOOLS RECEIVE BOOKS ON NATURE *****
MORE THAN 350 SETS OF THE +OCEAN PARK NATURE SERIES* OF BOOKS WERE TODAY GIVEN TO PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES BY THE SHELL COMPANY.
RECEIVING THE BOOKS AT A PRESENTATION CEREMONY THIS MORNING, THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR KENNETH TOPLEY SAID OVER 700 000 STUDENTS FROM SECONDARY AND PRIMARY SCHOOLS HAD VISITED OCEAN PARK IN GROUPS UNDER THE JOINT ARRANGEMENT OF OCEAN PARK AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
HOWEVER, DUE TO TRANSPORT PROBLEMS, PUPILS OF SOME PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES HAVE NOT HAD THE OPPORTUNITY OF THE EDUCATIONAL VISITS AND THE PRESENTATION OF THE *OCEAN PARK NATURE SERIES* TO THESE SCHOOLS IS A MOST MEANINGFUL GESTURE, HE SAID.
EACH SET IN THE SERIES CONTAINS FOUR BOOKS ON VARIOUS ANIMALS AND BIRDS. IT PROVIDES VALUABLE INFORMATION ON NATURAL SCIENCE STUDIES, AND HELPS TO AROUSE THE INTEREST OF STUDENTS IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT NATURE.
MR TOPLEY COMMENDED THE SHELL COMPANY FOR ITS CONTRIBUTION TO COMMUNITY SERVICE, AND THE PROMOTION OF EDUCATION IN HONG KONG, SUCH AS THE SETTING UP OF SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS, AND THE DONATION OF EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES TO SCHOOLS.
THE PRESENTATION WAS MADE BY MR S.J. OSMOND, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE COMPANY. SIR KENNETH PING-FAN FUNG, CHAIRMAN OF OCEAN PARK, WAS ALSO PRESENT AT THE CEREMONY.
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FIRING PRACTICE * * * *
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE HA TSUEN-CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON THREE DAYS NEXT WEEK.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WARNED NOT TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN RED FLAGS ARE FLYING DURING THE TIME OF PRACTICE.
THE PRACTISING TIMES AREi
date time
MARCH 24 (MONDAY) 9 AM - 5 PM
MARCH 25 (TUESDAY) 8 AM - 11 PM
MARCH 26 (WEDNESDAY) 5 AM - 4 PM
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
SUNDAY, MARCH 2J, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
MANY TO JOIN CELEBRATIONS FOR QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY ........... 1
SAVING LIKE BY CaNCE...................................... 2
WONG TAI SIN TO HaVE GREaTER FIRE PROTECTION ............. 3
NEV/ TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON NATHAN RCUD.................. 4
BETTER HEALTH C.iRE FOR CHILDREN ......................... 6
VISITORS jELCChE aT TECHNICAL INSTITUTE OPEN DAY ......... 6
TUEN MUN TO STaGE BONSaI SHOW ............................ 7
Salt Water cut in Aberdeen
8
SUIfDAX, MffiOH 2^ *1980
MANY TO JOIS CELEBRATIONS FOR QUEEN‘S BIRTHDAY 1 * ft ft X ft
MONG KONG IS PLANNING TO CELEBRATE THE QUEEN'S BIRTHDAY ON APRIL 21 - A PUBLIC HOLIDAY - WITH A PROGRAMME OF ENTERTAINMENT THAT WILL APPEAL TO PEOPLE OF ALL AGES AND INTERESTS.
THE EVENTS, BOTH INDOORS AND OUT IN THE OPEN, ARE EXPECTED TO DRAW CROWDS FROM URBAN AREAS AS WELL AS NEW TOWNS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE WILL BE STAGING SPORTS GAMES AND DISPLAYS, ACCOMPANIED BY BAND MUSIC AND A SELECTION OF LION, DRAGON, DISCO, ORIENTAL AND MODERN DANCES IN ALL ITS FIVE LOCAL REGIONS IN THE MORNING.
THERE WILL ALSO BE FREEFALL PARACHUTE JUMPS BY THE ‘RED DEWILS’ WHILE THE GURKHA TRANSPORT REGIMENT WILL DEMONSTRATE ACROBATIC MANOEUVRES ON MOTOR-CYCLES. BAND PERFORMANCES WILL BE GIVEN BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE AND THE ARMY.
ON HONG KONG ISLAND, THE CELEBRATIONS WILL TAKE PLACE IN VICTORIA PARK. FOLLOWING AN OPENING CEREMONY. WHICH WILL BE HIGHLIGHTED BY A DRAGON DANCE. THERE WILL BE DEMONSTRATIONS OF TAI CHI AND MARTIAL ARTS, A DISCO DANCE, POTTED SPORTS FOR CHILDREN AND OLD PEOPLE, INVITATION SOCCER MATCHES, BASKETBALL COMPETITIONS, INCLUDING ONE FOR WHEELCHAIR-BOUND ATHLETES, AND AN AQUATIC SPORTS PERFORMANCE.
OTHER PARTICIPANTS MAY JOIN A ROUND-THE-PARK RACE, OR TRY THEIR SKILLS RIDING ON SKATE BOARDS OR SHOOTING WITH BOWS AND ARROWS.
THE OTHER VENUES FOR THE SPORTS AND RECREATION PROGRAMME WILL BE MORSE PARK AND KOWLOON PARK IN KOWLOON, AND PLAYGROUNDS AND SPOfft$ CENTRES IN YUEN LONG. TUEN MUN, TSUEN WAN, SHA TIN, TAI PO, SAI KUNG, CHEUNG CHAU AND MUI WO.
IN THE AFTERNOON, A GARDEN PARTY WILL BE HELD AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE AND THISf YEAR THE GUESTS WILL BE REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE JUDICIARY AND THE LEGAL PROFESSION.
THE MUSIC OFFICE IS ALSO TAKING PART IN THE FESTIVITIES. IT WILL HOLD A SPECTACULAR BAND CONCERT AT THE MAPLE STREET PLAYGROUND IN SHAM SHU I PO.
A NUMBER OF YOUTH BANDS WILL COMBINE AND PLAY ^IN A PROGRAMME OF MOVIE HITS AND POPULAR CLASSICS. A SPECIAL FEATURE IN THE PROGRAMME WILL BE A BAGPIPE DRILL BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE BAND.
ANOTHER CONCERT, PRESENTED IN ASSOC IAT I (JR WITH THE HONG KONG SCHOOLS MUSIC AND SPEECH ASSOCIATION, WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE EVENING IN THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL OF BAPTIST COLLEGE.
THE PROGRAMME, FEATURING THE HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND THE HONG KONG YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA, WILL INCLUDE TRADITIONAL CHINESE MELODIES AND MUSIC BY HANDEL AND ELGAR WRiYTSN FOR ROYAL OCCASIONS.
/THE WINNEB...
SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 1980
2
THE WINNER OF THE PIANO CONCERT CLASS IN THE CURRENT SCHOOLS MUSIC FESTIVAL WILL PLAY A PIECE WITH THE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA.
THE URBAN COUNCIL WILL ALSO PLAY A PART IN THE CELEBRATIONS. IT WILL ARRANGE A SPECIAL CONCERT BY THE HONG KONG PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA IN THE CITY HALL CONCERT HALL. THIS WILL HAVE RENOWNED BRITISH PIANIST PETER KATIN AS GUEST SOLOIST. THE GOVERNOR WILL ATTEND THIS MUSICAL EVENT.
OTHER THAN THE INDOOR CONCERTS, THE PROGRAMMES WILL BE OPEN, FREE OF CHARGE, TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
-----0------
SAVING LIFE BY CANOE * * * *
THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICE HAS TRAINED OVER 100 SPECIAL LIFE GUARDS TO PATROL POPULAR BEACHES THIS SUMMER.
THEY WILL BE DIFFERENT FROM OTHER LIFE-SAVERS BECAUSE THEY WILL OPERATE IN TEAMS OF THREE AND MOVE ABOUT ON WATER IN CANOES BUILT SPECIALLY FOR RESCUE WORK.
♦CANOES ARE IDEAL FOR LIFE-SAVING BECAUSE WITHOUT ANY PROPELLER THEY ARE COMPLETELY WITHOUT HAZARD TO SWIMMERS IN WATER, PARTICULARLY IN OUR OFTEN TOO CROWDED SWIMMING BEACHES. THEY ARE MORE EFFICIENT BECAUSE THEY MOVE VERY FAST AND YET ARE EASILY MANOEUVRABLE,* SAID MR K.C. TONG, THE AMS MEDICAL DEFENCE STAFF OFFICER.
THIS METHOD OF LIFE-SAVING IS WIDELY PRACTISED IN BRITAIN, AUSTRALIA AND THE UNITED STATES. FOR OUR LOCAL CONDITIONS, THE CANOES TO BE USED ARE OF FIBRE-GLASS AND ARE SOME FOUR METRES IN LENGTH, EACH WEIGHING ONLY 14 KILOGRAMS. THEY WERE BUILT BY AMS MEMBERS THEMSELVES.
WHEN ON ACTUAL DUTY THERE ARE USUALLY THREE CANOES WITH THREE AMS MEMBERS IN A TEAM. IF A SWIMMER IN DIFFICULTY IS NOT INJURED AND IS CONSCIOUS, HE CAN BE CARRIED BY A CANOE TO THE SHORE BY SIMPLY CLINGING TO THE BOW IN THE WATER OR HANGING ON TO THE TOGGLE.
♦IN THIS WAY THE CANOE LIFE GUARD CAN KEEP AN EYE ON HIM ALL THE TIME IN CASE HE NEEDS SUDDEN HELP BEFORE REACHING THE SHORE,+ MR TONG SAID.
IF, HOWEVER, THE SWIMMER IS INJURED BUT IS STILL CONSCIOUS, HE IS HELPED TO REST ON THE FLAT TOP OF THE STERN SLIGHTLY LEANING ONTO THE BACK OF THE CANOEIST. HE IS MADE TO LIE FACING DOWN WITH HIS HEAD TILTED SO THAT HIS AIRWAY IS KEPT OPEN DURING THE EVACUATION BY CANOE.
/IN THE .....
SUNDAY, MARCH 2J, 1980
3
IN THE MORE SERIOUS CASE WHERE THE SWIMMER IS UNCONSCIOUS. THE CANOE LIFE GUARD CAN IMMEDIATELY APPLY MOUTH-TO-MOUTH RESUSCITATION ON THE STERN DECK BEFORE THE PATIENT IS CONVEYED TO SHORE AND GIVEN FURTHER TREATMENT.
WHEN A LIFE-SAVING OPERATION IS CARRIED OUT IN ROUGH SEAS, THE THREE CANOES WORK AS A TEAM, GROUPING TOGETHER SIDE BY SIDE TO RESEMBLE A RAFT, WITH THE DISTRESSED SWIMMER RESTING ACROSS ON THE BOWS.
+ONCE HAVING REACHED SHORE, THE CANOES CAN ALSO BE USED AS STRETCHERS FOR CARRYING THE INJURED OR SICK SWIMMER EITHER TO THE FIRST AID POST OR STRAIGHT TO AN AMBULANCE,* MR TONG ADDED.
THE CANOES ARE PURPOSE-DESIGNED, INCORPORATING SEALED HOLLOW PARTS AT THE BOW AND STERN WHICH CREATE ADDITIONAL BUOYANCY. THE CRAFT DOES NOT SINK EVEN IF THE COCKPIT IS FULLY FLOODED.
THE LIFE GUARD IS FURTHER EQUIPPED WITH A LIFE-JACKET, A SPRAY COVER, SAFETY ROPES AND A HANDY FIRST AID KIT.
IF HE WISHES TO FREE HIS HANDS TO GRASP THE PERSON IN DIFFICULTY IN WATER, THERE IS AN ELASTIC BAND FIXED TO THE BOW OF THE CANOE FOR HIM TO RETAIN HIS PADDLE AND NOT LOSE IT IN WATER.
MR TONG REMARKED THAT HE WOULD INTRODUCE THIS NEW METHOD OF LIFE-SAVING BY CANOE TO SOME 600 QUALIFIED LIFE GUARDS OF THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICE.
THEY HAVE UNDERGONE A PROGRAMME OF TOUGH CANOE LIFE-SAVING TRAINING IN THE WATERS OF TSAM CHUK WAN IN SAI KUNG WHERE A PERMANENT AMS CANOE LIFE-SAVING TRAINING CENTRE IS TO BE BUILT BY THE GOVERNMENT.
THE SERVICE PLANS TO TRAIN 200 MORE CANOE LIFE GUARDS EACH YEAR.
-----0------
WONG TAI SIN TO HAVE GREATER FIRE PROTECTION H » » O
A NEW DIVISIONAL TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL
FIRE STATION IS TO BE BUILT IN WONG TAI SIN FIRE COVER TO THE DENSELY POPULATED AREA.
ncrr THE W0RK ARE BE 1NG * NV I TED BY THE ARCHITECTURAL
OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT.
MR LINCOLN LEE, PROJECT ARCHITECT, WOULD BE LOCATED AT FUNG TAK ROAD.
SAID THE NEW STATION
WORK IS EXPECTED TO TO COMPLETE.
BEGIN IN MAY AND WILL TAKE ABOUT 29 MONTHS
/HE SAID .....
SUNDAY, MARCH 2J, 1980
4
HE SAID THE THREE-STOREY STATION WOULD BE OF STANDARD DESIGN AND WOULD HAVE ROOM FOR 10 FIRE APPLIANCES.
THERE WILL BE DUTY AND SERVICES ROOMS, OFFICES, A LECTURE ROOM, BARRACKS ACCOMMODATION FOR ESSENTIAL OPERATIONAL STAFF ON DUTY, WASHROOM FACILITIES, AND A DINING AND RECREATIONAL AREA.
IN ADDITION, THERE WILL BE A DRILL YARD, A DRILL TOWER AND A DANGEROUS GOODS STORE.
0 - -
NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON NATHAN ROAD * M * » M
NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE INTRODUCED ON NATHAN ROAD NEAR THE JORDAN AND TSIM SHA TSUI MTR STATIONS FROM 10 AM ON WEDNESDAY (MARCH 26) FOLLOWING REINSTATEMENT OF THE ROAD.
TWO EXISTING BU8-0NLY LANES WILL BE REDESIGNATED URBAN CLEARWAYS.
THEY ARE THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAYS OF NATHAN ROAD BETWEEN PEKING ROAD AND GRANVILLE ROAD AND BETWEEN AUSTIN ROAD AND PUBLIC SQUARE STREET.
ALL VEHICLES, EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES, WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO PICK UP OR SET DOWN PASSENGERS OR LOAD OR UNLOAD GOODS FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM WITHIN THE CLEARWAYS.
IN ADDITION, THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF THE ROAD BETWEEN JORDAN ROAD AND PUBLIC SQUARE STREET WILL BE DESIGNATED A PLB PROHIBITED ZONE.
PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES, EXCEPT THOSE AUTHORISED IN WRITING BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT, WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM ENTERING THE ZONE FROM 7 AM TO MIDNIGHT.
EXISTING URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTIONS AND PUBLIC LIGHT BUS RESTRICTIONS ON THE OTHER SECTIONS OF NATHAN ROAD AND JORDAN ROAD WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED.
TRAFFIC RE-ROUTINGS WILL ALSO BE IMPLEMENTED AS FOLLOWS 1
X NATHAN ROAD BETWEEN PEKING ROAD AND GRANVILLE ROAD AND BETWEEN AUSTIN ROAD AND PUBLIC SQUARE STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED TWO-WAY,
BOWRING STREET BETWEEN NATHAN ROAD AND PILKEM STREET BE OPENED TO TRAFFIC ONE-WAY EASTBOUND,
WILL
* NANKING STREET AND NING PO STREET BETWEEN NATHAN ROAD AND PARKES STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY WESTBOUND AND THE CLOSURE AT THEIR WESTERN JUNCTIONS WITH NATHAN ROAD WILL BE REMOVED,
* PAK HOI STREET BETWEEN NATHAN ROAD AND WOOSUNG STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY EASTBOUND AND THE CLOSURE AT ITS WESTERN JUNCTION WITH NATHAN ROAD WILL BE REMOVED.
SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 1980
5
OTHER EXISTING TRAFFIC ROUTINGS IN THE STREETS OR ROADS NEXT TO NATHAN ROAD, INTRODUCED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE TSIM SHA TSUI AND JORDAN MTR STATIONS, WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED.
FROM WEDNESDAY, THE FOLLOWING TURNING MOVEMENTS WILL BE PROHIBITED!
JUNCTION WITH AUSTIN ROAD
* LEFT TURN FROM NATHAN ROAD NORTHBOUND INTO AUSTIN ROAD WESTBOUND,
* RIGHT TURN FROM NATHAN ROAD NORTHBOUND INTO AUSTIN ROAD EASTBOUND,
K RIGHT TURN FROM NATHAN ROAD SOUTHBOUND INTO AUSTIN ROAD WESTBOUND,
* LEFT TURN FROM AUSTIN ROAD EASTBOUND INTO NATHAN ROAD NORTHBOUND,
* LEFT TURN FROM AUSTIN ROAD WESTBOUND INTO NATHAN ROAD SOUTHBOUND, AND
X RIGHT TURN FROM AUSTIN ROAD WESTBOUND INTO NATHAN ROAD NORTHBOUND-
JUNCTION WITH JORDAN ROAD
X LEFT TURN FROM NATHAN ROAD NORTHBOUND INTO JORDAN ROAD WESTBOUND,
* RIGHT TURN FROM NATHAN ROAD NORTHBOUND INTO JORDAN ROAD EASTBOUND,
X LEFT TURN FROM NATHAN ROAD SOUTHBOUND INTO JORDAN ROAD EASTBOUND,
* RIGHT TURN FROM JORDAN ROAD EASTBOUND INTO NATHAN ROAD SOUTHBOUND, AND
M RIGHT TURN FROM JORDAN ROAD WESTBOUND INTO NATHAN ROAD NORTHBOUND-
JUNCTION WITH GASCOIGNE ROAD
* LEFT TURN FROM NATHAN ROAD SOUTHBOUND INTO GASCOIGNE ROAD EASTBOUND, AND
X LEFT TURN FROM GASCOIGNE ROAD INTO NATHAN ROAD SOUTHBOUND
ALL NORTHBOUND TRAFFIC, EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES, ON NATHAN ROAD MUST TURN LEFT INTO KANSU STREET OR PUBLIC SQUARE STREET.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP AT THESE PLACES TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
/6 ....
o - _
SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 1980
6
BETTER HEALTH CARE FOR CHILDREN
* * * *
A +HEALTHY NEW GENERATION EXHIBITION* WHICH SHOWS HOW PARENTS, TEACHERS AND CHILD CARE WORKERS CAN PROPERLY BRING UP HEALTHY CHILDREN WILL BE MOUNTED BY THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT AS PART OF ITS FAMILY HEALTH CAMPAIGN THIS YEAR.
THE FOUR-DAY EVENT WILL BE HELD FROM THURSDAY (MARCH 27) IN THE CITY HALL EXHIBITION HALL.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT EXPLAINED THAT THE OBJECTIVE CF THE EXHIBITION WAS TO MAKE THE PUBLIC AWARE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF PARENTAL CARE FOR CHILDREN AND WAYS OF KEEPING THEM IN A HEALTHY PHYSICAL AND MENTAL STATE.
DURING THE EXHIBITION. VISITORS WILL SEE DISPLAYS ON MANY ASPECTS OF HEALTH CARE OF THE MOTHER AND THE CHILD.
VISITORS WILL ALSO BE ENTERTAINED WITH EDUCATIONAL MOVIES AND SLIDE SHOWS ON MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH AND WILL SEE DEMONSTRATIONS OF BODY TEMPERATURE TAKING AND BATHING OF THE NEW-BORN, AND CORRECT STERILISATION OF MILK BOTTLES.
SPECIAL BOOTHS WILL BE SET UP TO GIVE SCREENING TESTS TO CHILDREN UNDER FIVE, AND COUNSELLING ON FAMILY PLANNING AS ADDED ATTRACTIONS.
THE DEPARTMENT HAS PRINTED 15 000 COPIES OF AN ILLUSTRATED BOOKLET CONTAINING INFORMATION ON HEALTH CARE TO GIVE AWAY FREE TO VISITORS.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPENED AT 11 AM ON THURSDAY BY MR ROGER LOBO, UNOFFICIAL MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS.
MRS LOBO WILL PRESENT PRIZES TO THE WINNERS OF THE CHILDREN SAFETY POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION, WHICH WAS JOINTLY ORGANISED LAST MONTH BY THE DEPARTMENT AND THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUBS SECRETARIAT OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FROM NOON TO 6 PM ON THURSDAY AND FROM 10 AM TO 6 PM ON THE FOLLOWING THREE DAYS.
VISITORS WELCOME AT TECHNICAL INSTITUTE OPEN DAY * * * * *
KWAI CHUNG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE IS HOLDING ITS OPEN DAY TOMORROW (MONDAY) AND VISITS BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME.
THE SCHOOL IS ONE OF THE FIVE TECHNICAL INSTITUTES UNDER THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND OFFERS COURSES IN FIVE TEACHING DEPARTMENTS! CLOTHING INDUSTRIES, COMMERICAL STUDIES. ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING, MECHANICAL ENGINEERING AND TEXTILE INDUSTRIES.
COURSES RUN BY THESE DEPARTMENTS ARE PLANNED TO MEET THE DEMAND OF LOCAL INDUSTRIES AT BOTH THE TECHNICIAN AND CRAFTSMAN LEVELS.
/THE INSTITUTE ..
SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 1980
7
THE INSTITUTE WAS STARTED IN SEPTEMBER, 1975. THERE ARE AT PRESENT 15 FULL-TIME DAY CLASSES, 49 PART-TIME DAY-RELEASE CLASSES, 49 EVENING CLASSES AND EIGHT SHORT COURSES. THE TOTAL STUDENT ENROLMENT IS 3 500.
VISITORS CAN TOUR THE INSTITUTE, AT 20 HING SHING ROAD, TOMORROW BETWEEN 10 AM AND 12.30 PM, AND FROM 2 PM TO 4.30 PM.
NOTE TO ED ITORSi
YOU ARE WELCOME TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE OPEN DAY OF KWAI CHUNG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE, AT 20 HING SHING ROAD, TOMORROW (MONDAY).
-----o------
TUEN MUN TO STAGE BONSAI SHOW ft ft ft ft
HUNDREDS OF ENTRIES ARE EXPECTED WHEN A BONSAI (MINIATURE TREE) SHOW IS HELD IN TUEN MUN NEXT MONTH.
THE SHOW IS BEING ORGANISED BY CHING CHUNG KOON, A LOCAL TAOIST ASSOCIATION. SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING ON APRIL 26.
IT WILL BE HELD AT THE TUEN MUN PLAYGROUND AND WILL BE DIVIDED INTO STUDENTS’, OPEN AND DISPLAY SECTIONS. IT WILL OPEN DAILY FROM 9 AM TO 6 PM.
PEOPLE ATTENDING WILL PAY A TOKEN ENTRANCE FEE OF SI AND ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE USED TO FINANCE A BONSAI PUBLICATION TO PROMOTE FURTHER INTEREST.
THERE WILL BE DAILY DEMONSTRATIONS OF BONSAI PLANTING.
MR AKERS-JONES IS THE SHOW’S HONORARY PATRON, WHILE THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR J.M. RIDDELL-SWAN, AND THE DIRECTOR OF NEW TERRITORIES SERVICES, MR HARNAM GREWAL, ARE HONORARY VICE-PATRONS.
THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT, SERVICES DEPARTMENT, THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFF KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION ARE SPONSORS.
THE NEW TERRITORIES ICE AND THE HONG
TUEN MUN ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MISS SANDRA LEE EXPLAINED TODAY THAT THE WEEK-LONG SHOW WAS AIMED AT POPULARISING THIS HORTICULTURAL ART. IT WAS ALSO HOPED IT WOULD ATTRACT VISITORS FROM OTHER AREAS OF HONG KONG AND OVERSEAS TOURISTS TO THE NEW TOWN.
MISS LEE, WHO IS ON THE COMMITTEE ORGANISING THE SHOW, SAID IT WOULD VERY LIKELY BECOME A MAJOR ANNUAL EVENT FOR THE NEW TOWN AND STARTING NEXT YEAR WOULD INCLUDE ENTRIES FROM JAPAN AND OTHER SOUTHEAST ASIAN COUNTRIES.
- - 0 - _
SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 1980
8
SALT WATER CUT IN ABERDEEN * * * *
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF PREMISES IN ABERDEEN WILL BE TURNED OFF FOR EIGHT HOURS FROM 9 AM TO 5 PM ON TUESDAY (MARCH 25).
THE PREMISES TO BE AFFECTED ARE THOSE AT YUE KWONG ESTATE AND WONG CHUK HANG ESTATE, AND ON WONG CHUK HANG ROAD, HEUNG YIP ROAD, YIP FAT STREET, ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD, TUNG SING ROAD AND CHENGTU ROAD.
----0----
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL 5-233191
MONDAY, MARCH 24, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
HOUSING REVIEW COMMITTEE HOLDS FIRST MEETING .................. 1
GOVERNMENT TO EXPaND SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY.................. 2
NEW COUNTRYSIDE NAP OF EASTERN NT ON SALE ..................... 3
SNT TALKS ABOUT CHANGING SOCIETY .............................. 4
TSUEN -.’AN TOWN MANAGER GIVES .JTNtJAL TALK TO LOCAL LEADERS ................................................ 6
INDUSTRIAL SaFETY CONFERENCE ................................... 7
PHOTOGRAPHS OF SENIOR GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS ..................... 8
REFRESHER COURSE FOR TEACHERS OF ENGLISH ...................... 8
SALT ..'ATER CUT
9
MONDAY, MARCH 24, 1980
1
HOUSING REVIEW COMMITTEE HOLDS FIRST MEETING O O
THE LANDLORD AND TENANT (CONSOLIDATION) ORDINANCE COMMITTEE OF REVIEW TODAY (MONDAY) HELD ITS FIRST MEETING TO DISCUSS SUBMISSIONS FROM PUBLIC ORGANISATIONS, ASSOCIATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE COMMITTEE HAD RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 50 SUBMISSIONS SINCE THEY WERE SOUGHT ON FEBRUARY 13.
THEY COVERED*
* THE CEILING OF A 21 PER CENT RENT INCREASE OVER TWO YEARS"
* THE RIGHTS OF LANDLORDS AND TENANTS"
* REPOSSESSION OF FLATS-
* LAND SUPPLY"
* SECURITY OF TENURE FOR TENANTS-
* THE ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF THE EXTENSION OF RENT CONTROLS- AND
M GENERAL VIEWS.
HOWEVER, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE COMMITTEE WOULD WELCOME FURTHER SUBMISSIONS FOR CONSIDERATION.
THEY SHOULD BE FORWARDED, HE SAID, TO THE SECRETARY OF THE COMMITTEE, HOUSING BRANCH, GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG.
♦TODAY’S MEETING OF THE COMMITTEE WAS THE FIRST,♦ SAID THE SPOKESMAN, +AND AS SUCH IT WENT WELL. HOPEFULLY, MORE SUBMISSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS WILL BE MADE TO THE COMMITTEE SO THAT THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW CAN BE CARRIED OUT.
♦THE COMMITTEE WANTS TO RECEIVE AND CONSIDER AS MANY VIEWS COVERING AS MANY ASPECTS OF THE ORDINANCE AS POSSIBLE.*
THE COMMITTEE COMPRISES*
* MR R.H. LOBO, A MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL-
* MR PETER C. WONG, A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL-
K MR WONG PO-YAN, A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL-
M MISS SHEILA SERALE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE HOUSING SOCIETY-
M PROFESSOR PETER WILLOUGHBY Or THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY-
# MRS LEE LO YUK-SIM, A MEMBER OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY.
MONDAY, MARCH 24, 1980
2
THE GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE COMMITTEE WOULD BE CHAIRED BY THE SECRETARY FOR HOUSING, AND THAT OTHER OFFICIAL MEMBERS WERE THE COMMISSIONER FOR RATING AND VALUATION, SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, THE DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS AND A SENIOR MEMBER OF THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
THE COMMITTEE WILL REPORT TO THE GOVERNOR, HE SAID.
o - - - -
GOVERNMENT TO EXPAND SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY
* ft ft ft ft
IT IS GOVERNMENT’S INTENTION TO EXPAND SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY ON A WIDE FRONT, WITH THE OBJECTIVE OF PROMOTING THEIR WELL-BEING THROUGH THE PROVEN CONCEPT OF CARE IN THE COMMUNITY AND BY THE COMMUNITY.
SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, SAID THIS TODAY (MONDAY) WHEN LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE POK Ol HOSPITAL CARE AND ATTENTION HOME AT PING SHAN, NEAR YUEN LONG.
TO ACHIEVE THIS OBJECTIVE, MR AKERS-JONES SAID, GOVERNMENT WOULD ADOPT A THREE-FOLD STRATEGYi
ft TO PROMOTE SOCIAL INTEGRATION OF THE ELDERLY IN THE COMMUNITY AND AN UNDERSTANDING OF THEIR NEEDS AND PROBLEMS-
ft TO ENCOURAGE FAMILIES TO LOOK AFTER THEIR ELDERLY MEMBERS AND PROVIDE SERVICES THAT WOULD ENABLE OLD PEOPLE TO LIVE INDEPENDENTLY- AND
ft TO PROVIDE RESIDENTIAL INSTITUTIONAL FACILITIES FOR THOSE WHO FOR HEALTH AND OTHER REASONS COULD NO LONGER LIVE WITH THEIR FAMILIES OR ON THEIR OWN.
♦PRESENT FACILITIES ARE NOT ADEQUATE, AND IT IS GOVERNMENT’S INTENTION TO GIVE PRIORITY TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF CARE AND ATTENTION HOMES ON AN EXPANDED SCALE,♦ HE SAID.
♦THESE HOMES WILL ALSO HAVE THE ADVANTAGES OF RELEASING MUCH-NEEDED HOSPITAL BEDS WHICH ARE CURRENTLY OCCUPIED BY OLD PEOPLE WHO COULD MORE APPROPRIATELY LIVE IN CARE AND ATTENTION HOMES.+
ON THE BASIS OF PROVISION OF FOUR PLACES PER 1 000 AGED 60 AND OVER, THERE WAS ALREADY A TERRITORY-WIDE SHORTFALL.
ONLY 335 PLACES EXISTED TO MEET A DEMAND BY 1 990 OLD PEOPLE.
♦WORKING HAND-IN-HAND WITH INSTITUTIONS SUCH AS POK 01 HOSPITAL, IT IS GOVERNMENT’S INTENTION TO ELIMINATE THIS SHORTFALL BY 1983/84 THROUGH PROVISION OF AN ADDITIONAL 1 935 PLACES.♦
/THE MAJORITY .....
MONDAY, MARCH 2L, '98c
3
THE MAJORITY OF THESE NEW HOMES WOULD BE BUILT IN THE NT TO MEET BOTH THE LOCAL AND TERRITORY-WIDE NEED, MR AKERS-JONES SAID.
IT WAS GOVERNMENT’S AIM TO ACHIEVE A GEOGRAPHICAL SPREAD OF CARE AND ATTENTION HOMES, TO FACILITATE SOCIAL INTEGRATION OF THE ELDERLY WITHIN THE COMMUNITY AND TO ENSURE THAT THEY WOULD NOT BE PHYSICALLY TOO FAR AWAY FROM THEIR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS.
♦UPON COMPLETION OF THE POK 01 CARE AND ATTENTION HOME, YOU WILL HAVE MADE A VERY SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO GOVERNMENT’S PLANNED OBJECTIVES BY PROVIDING 150 PLACES FOR ACCOMMODATION OF THE ELDERLY,♦ HE SAID.
THE POK 01 HOSPITAL CARE AND ATTENTION HOME, WHICH MR AKERS-JONES DESCRIBED AS *YET ANOTHER MANIFESTATION OF THE SPIRIT OF POK Ol>, IS A 15.5 MILLION PROJECT TO BE BUILT ON A 3 OOO-SQUARE-N€TRE SITE GRANTED FREE BY GOVERNMENT AT PING HA ROAD.
THE HOSPITAL HAS RAISED 11.5 MILLION AND IS APPLYING TO OBTAIN THE REMAINDER FROM THE LOTTERIES FUND THROUGH THE SOCIAL WELFARE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
-----o------
NEW COUNTRYSIDE MAP OF EASTERN NT ON SALE * * * * *
CAMPERS AND HIKERS TO THE EASTERN PART OF THE NEW TERRITORIES WILL FIND THE CHOOSING OF CAMPSITES AND ROUTES MUCH EASIER WITH THE HELP OF A NEW COUNTRYSIDE MAP.
ENTITLED ’SAI KUNG AND CLEAR WATER BAY’ , THE NEW MAP IS THE FOURTH IN THE POPULAR COUNTRYSIDE SERIES PRODUCED BY PWD’S CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY OFFICE TO PROMOTE OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL PURSUITS.
♦THE OTHER THREE MAPS — 'HONG KONG ISLAND’, ’NEW TERRITORIES -WEST’ AND ’LANTAU AND ISLANDS’ PROVED SURPRISINGLY POPULAR,♦ A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.+IN FACT, NEW EDITIONS HAD TO BE PRINTED TO MEET THE TREMENDOUS DEMAND.♦
AS SAI KUNG AND CLEAR WATER BAY PENINSULAS ARE FASCINATING AREAS FOR EXPLORATION BY OUR NATURE LOVERS, HE SAID ♦THIS NEW MAP NO DOUBT WILL ALSO BE ON OUR BEST-SELLERS LIST.+
♦TO CATER FOR THE DIVERSITY OF PURSUITS WHICH MAY BE UNDERTAKEN, THE VARIOUS COUNTRYSIDE FEATURES ARE DENOTED BY ILLUSTRATIVE SIGNS FOR QUICK AND EASY REFERENCE,♦ HE POINTED OUT.
FOOTPATHS AND TRAILS ARE SHOWN ON MAP IN DIFFERENT LINE PATTERNS TO INDICATE WHETHER THEY ARE PAVED OR NOT. THE MACLEHOSE TRAIL WHICH HAS PROVED EXCEEDINGLY POPULAR AMONG HIKERS SINCE ITS OPENING IN OCTOBER LAST YEAR, IS SHOWN IN A DISTINCT RED COLOUR ON THE MAP RQR EASY IDENTIFICATION.
/VITE TEIS......
MONDAY, MARCH 24, 198O
WITH THIS MAP IN HAND, FAMILY PARTIES CAN EASILY SELECT BARBECUE AND PICNIC SPOTS WHILE EXPEREINCED TREKKERS CAN TAKE TO RUGGED TERRAIN ALONG THE MORE PHYSICALLY CHALLENGING TRAIL.
THE MAP, WHICH HAS BEEN DRAWN TO A SCALE OF 1»25 000, INCLUDES A SPECIAL INSERT SHOWING THE COUNTRY CODE. A GENERAL INFORMATION BOOKLET, IN CHINESE AND ENGLISH, ABOUT SAI KUNG PENINSULA ALSO COMES WITH THE MAP.
INCLUDED IN THIS BOOKLET ARE GENERAL NOTES ON THE COUNTRYSIDE, ROUTE SUGGESTIONS FOR TREKKERS, BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF VARIOUS PLACES OF INTEREST, PLUS A PLACE NAME DIRECTORY FOR QUICK LOCALITY FINDING.
THE WHOLE SET FITS SNUGLY IN A PLASTIC HOLDER, AND IS NOW ON SALE AT $10 EACH AT PWD’S SALES COUNTER ON THE 19TH FLOOR OF MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG- THE KOWLOON CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY OFFICE, 9TH FLOOR, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, NATHAN ROAD- AND THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE, EDINBURGH PLACE.
PRELIMINARY WORK WILL BEGIN SHORTLY ON THE FIFTH OF THE POPULAR MAP SERIES, COVERING THE NORTHERN PART OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.
-----0------
SNT TALKS ABOUT CHANGING SOCIETY ft * * * *
WE HAVE TO THINK MORE CAREFULLY NOW, AS THE POPULATION INCREASES, ABOUT THE SORT OF PLACE WE WANT HONG KONG TO BE AND ABOUT THE WAY IN WHICH SOCIETY IS CHANGING AND SHOULD CHANGE.
SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, THIS TODAY (MONDAY) AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE ASSOCIATION PAST CHAIRMEN OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS.
SAID OF
MR AKERS-JONES ASKED WHETHER IT WAS ENOUGH TO GO ON ADDING TO THE NUMBER OF EXISTING ORGANISATIONS, COMMITTEES, CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS.
WOULD THIS SATISFY THE ASPIRATIONS OF OUR YOUNG PEOPLE?
FOR WE WERE A YOUNG SOCIETY WITH NEARLY THREE MILLION PEOPLE UNDER THE AGE OF 30 - OR HALF OUR POPULATION - A GROWING PROPORTION OF WHOM HAD BEEN BORN IN HONG KONG.
♦THEY HAVE GROWN UP IN A VASTLY DIFFERENT WORLD FROM PREVIOUS GENERATIONS- SECONDARY EDUCATION IS NOW UNIVERSAL AND TELEVISION, BOOKS, CINEMA, TRAVEL AND EDUCATION ABROAD HAVE BROUGHT ABOUT A FAMILIARITY WITH DIFFERENT LANDSCAPES, DIFFERENT HORIZONS- CAREERS AND WORK ARE DIFFERENT AND NO ONE CAN BE UNAWARE OF THE PRESENT OVERWHELMING APPETITE FOR FRESH AIR AND PHYSICAL PURSUITS NOR OF THE DEMAND FOR MUSIC, DANCING AND THE ARTS,* HE SAID.
/+THIS REVOLUTION .....
MONDAY, MARCH 24, 1980
5
♦THIS REVOLUTION HAS TAKEN PLACE PRINCIPALLY IN THE PAST 10 YEARS. HOW DIFFERENT HONG KONG IS AT THE END OF THE SEVENTIES THAN IT WAS AT THE END OF THE SIXTIES!*
BUT NOW THIS CHANGING SOCIETY WAS ON THE MOVE, MOVING OUT TO THE NEW TOWNS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THIS WAS AN ALTOGETHER DIFFERENT SITUATION THAN THE GRADUAL ADDITION OF PEOPLE TO THE POPULATION OF THE EXISTING URBAN AREA, WHICH HAD TAKEN PLACE OVER THE LAST 20 YEARS.
♦WE WILL HAVE TO THINK VERY CAREFULLY ABOUT THE PART OUR EXISTING INSTITUTIONS WILL PLAY IN THE LIFE OF THESE TOWNS AND ABOUT THE NEED FOR ANY CHANGE, FOR WE CANNOT, FOR EXAMPLE, JUST PLONK DOWN 500 000 PEOPLE AT TUEN MUN, 20 MILES FROM KOWLOON, WITHOUT A THOUGHT BEING GIVEN TO THE WAY THAT COMMUNITY WILL KNIT TOGETHER IN THE YEARS TO COME.
♦TODAY I HAVE NOT COME TO PROVIDE ANSWERS TO THESE QUESTIONS BUT TO EXPRESS THE HOPE THAT IN ORGANISATIONS SUCH AS YOURS, IN WHICH THERE IS AN ENORMOUS REPOSITORY OF EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE CF HONG KONG, THESE QUESTIONS WILL BE PONDERED OF HOW WE DEVELOP OUR SOCIETY IN THE YEARS TO COME AS THE POPULATION CLIMBS EVER UPWARD AND AS THE URBAN AREAS SPREAD FURTHER INTO WHAT WERE UNTIL RECENTLY THE MORE DISTANT PARTS OF THE TERRITORY.+
MR AKERS-JONES SAID IN HONG KONG OUR LIVES WERE INTERWOVEN AND INTERCONNECTED IN A WAY WHICH WOULD SEEM UNBELIEVABLE IN A LARGE CITY. IT WAS ALMOST AS THOUGH WE LIVED IN A VILLAGE OR A COUNTRY TOWN.
♦I HAVE LIVED IN HONG KONG FOR 23 YEARS, YOU HAVE LIVED HERE ALL YOUR LIVES- GRADUALLY THE WEB OF OUR LIVES BECOMES MORE EXTENDED, MORE INTRICATE, AND WE BECOME MORE INVOLVED AS EACH DAY PASSES- THIS IS HAPPENING TO EACH ONE OF US AND TO THE ORGANISATIONS TO WHICH WE BELONG EVERYWHERE THROUGHOUT HONG KONG.
♦OUR ORGANISATIONS, OUR COMMITTEES AND ADVISORY BOARDS, OUR GOVERNMENT TOO, ARE LIVING THINGS, CONTINUALLY ADJUSTING THEMSELVES TO NEW SITUATIONS AND NEW CHALLENGES.♦
BUT JUST AS WE COULD GO INTO RETREAT IN OUR PERSONAL LIVES, HE SAID, CLOSE THE DOOR ON FRIENDS AND RELATIONS, SO, TOO, WE COULD PUBLICLY BURY OUR HEADS IN THE SAND AND REFUSE TO SEE AND TO REACT TO THE CHANGES THAT WERE TAKING PLACE IN THE WORLD AROUND US AND IN LOCAL SOCIETY.
♦THIS IS NOT WHAT I SEE HAPPENING IN HONG KONG, WE ARE ADJUSTING OUR SOCIETY ALL THE TIME TO CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES BOTH WITHIN AND WITHOUT HONG KONG. AND IN THIS CONNECTION I AM VERY GLAD TO SEE THAT TUNG WAH SAM YUEN HAS ITSELF STREAMLINED ITS MANAGEMENT TO A MORE MODERN PROFILE IN RECENT YEARS.
♦THIS IS THE GREAT STRENGTH OF HONG KONG AND I DO NOT BELIEVE THE MECHANISM OF CHANGE HAS RUN DOWN OR FUNCTIONS LESS WELL TODAY THAN IT HAS IN THE PAST.
BUT I WONDER WHETHER WE HAVE THE MEASURE OF THE CHANGES THAT ARE NOW TAKING PLACE IN SOCIETY AND WHETHER WE ARE CHANGING OUR INSTITUTIONS SUFFICIENTLY tq ACCOMMODATE THEM,* MR AKERS-JONES SAID.
MONDAY, MARCH 24, 1980
G
TSUEN WAN TOWN MANAGER GIVES ANNUAL TALK TO LOCAL LEADERS
******
UNDER OUR EXISTING CONSTITUTIONAL SYSTEM LOCAL OFFICIALS WERE OBLIGED TO PERFORM MANY CIVIC DUTIES THAT IN OTHER COUNTRIES WOULD OFTEN BE CARRIED OUT BY POLITICIANS.
THE TOWN MANAGER TSUEN WAN, MR JAMES HAYES, SAID THIS TODAY (MONDAY) AT THE ANNUAL TSUEN WAN DISTRICT LUNCH FOR LOCAL LEADERS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
MR HAYES SAID THERE WERE SOME DISADVANTAGES IN THIS OVER-RELIANCE ON OFFICIALS WHO HAD A FULL ADMINISTRATIVE WORKLOAD AND WERE ALSO SUBJECT TO REGULAR TRANSFER.
HE SAID THERE WAS ALSO CONTINUED OVER-RELIANCE ON A SMALL BODY OF APPOINTED UNOFFICIALS IN THE BUSINESS OF GOVERNMENT. THEIR SERVICE TO GOVERNMENT WAS DIRECT AND GREATLY VALUED, BUT THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO THE PUBLIC GOOD WAS LESS EASY TO COMMUNICATE.
♦THIS IS NOT THEIR FAULT, THOUGH TO BE FAIR THE SYSTEM IS ONLY A FEW YEARS OLD.+
MR HAYES SAID, IN THE TRADITIONAL CHINESE CITY, WORKING THROUGH ASSOCIATIONS AND A BODY OF LOCAL LEADERS WAS THE MEANS BY WHICH MUCH OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT WAS CARRIED ON. IN THIS PROCESS THE OFFICIALS PLAYED A PROMINENT PART, SHARING IN THE LOCAL FUNCTIONS AND EVENTS +JUST AS WE DO TODAY.♦ WE WERE HOWEVER IN A DIFFERENT AGE AND SITUATION. COULD THE ADMINISTRATION AND SERVICE DEPARTMENTS GO ALONG IN THE SAME CHANNELS TODAY?
♦ I SUPPOSE,* MR HAYES SAID, +THE BEST ANSWER TO THIS MUST REALLY COME FROM THE PEOPLE.
♦ IF THE PRESENT PARTNERSHIP IS EFFICIENT AND PROVIDES SCOPE FOR THE REALIZATION OF THEIR AMBITIONS FOR THEMSELVES AND THEIR CHILDREN, THEY MAY NOT WISH TO BOTHER ABOUT WIDER LOCAL REPRESENTATION BUT BE CONTENT TO LEAVE LIAISON WITH GOVERNMENT AND PARTICIPATION IN ITS ACTIVITIES TO A RELATIVELY SMALL NUMBER OF PERSONS WITH A LIKING FOR ASSOCIATION WORK AND THE BUSINESS OF LOCAL ADMINISTRATION.
♦ THIS SEEMS TO BE THE PREVAILING MOOD- BUT WE SHOULD BE ALIVE TO THE POSSIBILITY OF CHANGE.♦
-----0------
/7
MONDAY, MARCH 24, 1980
7
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY CONFERENCE ft ft ft ft
AN INDUSTRIAL SAFETY CONFERENCE FOR SENIOR MANAGEMENT WILL BE OPENED BY THE ACTING COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR J.C.A. HAMMOND, IN NEW WORLD HOTEL, TSIM SHA TSUI, TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE ONE-DAY CONFERENCE ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD’S COMMITTEE ON INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION WILL START AT 9.30 AM IN THE HOTEL’S FOUR SEASONS ROOM ON THE LOBBY FLOOR.
IT IS SPONSORED BY THE ACCIDENT INSURANCE ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG, THE BUILDING CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION LTD, THE HONG KONG COTTON SPINNERS ASSOCIATION AND THE HONG KONG PLASTIC MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION LTD.
MR HAMMOND WILL GIVE AN OPENING SPEECH, AFTER WHICH NINE EXPERTS WILL GIVE TALKS ON INDUSTRIAL SAFETY IN CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING, TEXTILES, PLASTICS, METAL WORK AND OTHER RELATED SUBJECTS, WITH EMPHASIS ON PREVENTIVE MEASURES TO BE ADOPTED BY MANAGEMENTS TO REDUCE ACCIDENTS.
TWO SAFETY FILMS WILL BE SHOWN DURING THE CONFERENCE — THE FIRST DEALS WITH THE NEED OF CAREFUL INVESTIGATION OF ACCIDENTS WHILE THE SECOND EMBRACES A WIDE SCOPE OF SAFETY MATTERS IN A FACTORY.
PARTICIPANTS OF THE CONFERENCE WILL ALSO VISIT A MINI-EXHIBITION OF SAFETY EQUIPMENT TO BE HELD IN THE HOTEL AS A MAJOR FEATURE OF THE CONFERENCE.
THE ♦ INDUSTRI AL SAFETY GIRL+ WILL BE PRESENT AT THE RECEPTION DESK TO HELP REGISTRATION OF THE PARTICIPANTS.
NOTE TO EDITORS!
AN INDUSTRIAL SAFETY CONFERENCE FOR SENIOR MANAGEMENT WILL BE OPENED BY THE ACTING COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR J.C.A. HAMMOND, IN NEW WORLD HOTEL, TSIM SHA TSUI, AT 9.30 AM TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE ONE-DAY CONFERENCE ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD’S COMMITTEE ON INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE HOTEL’S FOUR SEASONS ROOM ON THE LOBBY FLOOR.
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO COVER THE CONFERENCE.
/8
MONDAY, MARCH 24, 1980
NOTE TO EDITORS!
PHOTOGRAPHS OF SENIOR GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS ******
COPIES OF PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE CHIEF JUSTICE, SIR DENYS ROBERTS AND THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR AUGUSTINE CHUI KAM WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION FROM GIS PRESS BOXES THIS (MONDAY) EVENING FOR YOUR RECORD AND EDITORIAL USE.
IT WOULD BE MOST APPRECIATED IF YOU WOULD USE THESE PHOTOGRAPHS WHEN THE OCCASION ARISES.
- - 0 - -
REFRESHER COURSE FOR TEACHERS OF ENGLISH
*****
TEACHERS OF ENGLISH IN GOVERNMENT AND AIDED PRIMARY SCHOOLS WILL HAVE A CHANCE TO IMPROVE THEIR SPOKEN ENGLISH AT A REFRESHER COURSE RUN BY THE BRITISH COUNCIL AT THE REQUEST OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
THE COURSE WILL BE HELD ON MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND THURSDAYS FROM MAY 1 TO JULY 23.
THERE WILL BE A MORNING SESSION FROM 9 AM TO 11.30 AM, OR IF PARTICIPANTS PREFER. AN AFTERNOON SESSION FROM 2 PM TO 4.30 PM.
TOTAL DURATION OF THE COURSE WILL BE 90 HOURS.
♦THE MAIN AIMS OF THE COURSE ARE TO IMPROVE TEACHERS’ FLUENCY AND CONFIDENCE IN SPOKEN ENGLISH, AND TO INTRODUCE TEACHERS TO A RANGE OF COMMUNICATIVE TEACHING TECHNIQUES,* A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID.
AS A FOLLOW-UP TO FURTHER IMPROVE PARTICIPANTS’ PROFICIENCY IN ENGLISH, HE SAID, ARRANGEMENTS NAVE ALSO BEEN MADE FOR TEACHERS WHO SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE THE REFRESHER COURSE TO ENROL FOR ONE TERM OF ABOUT THREE MONTHS IN THE ENGLISH CLASSES AT THE BRITISH COUNCIL.
THERE WILL BE PLACES FOR 25 TEACHERS IN EACH SESSION AND APPLICATIONS WILL BE TREATED ON A FIRST-COME FIRST-SERVED BASIS.
ALL CLASSES WILL BE HELD IN THE BRITISH COUNCIL, 253-261 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI.
NOMINATIONS BY HEADS OF SCHOOLS MUST BE RETURNED BEFORE APRIL 18 TO THE PRINCIPAL INSPECTOR, ENGLISH, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, LEE GARDENS, 5TH FLOOR, HYSAN AVENUE, HONG KONG.
/EbQUi-IES CAN
MONDAY, MARCH 2^, 1980
9
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE AT THE ENGLISH SECTION OF THE DEPARTMENT ON TELt 5-77*001 EXT. 30.
SIMILAR REFRESHER COURSES WILL BE RUN IN SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR AND AGAIN IN JANUARY, 1981.
- - 0 - -
SALT WATER CUT * M * *
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF PREMISES IN CHAI WAN WILL BE TURNED OFF FOR EIGHT HOURS FROM 9.30 AM TO 5.30 PM ON WEDNESDAY (MARCH 26) TO FACILITATE WATER WORKS.
THE PREMISES TO BE AFFECTED ARE THOSE AT YUE WAN ESTATE, CHAI WAN ESTATE, HING WAH ESTATE, SUN YIP STREET, ON YIP STREET, FUNG YIP STREET, CHEUNG LEE STREET AND LEE CHUNG STREET.
- - 0 - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG TEL: 5-233191
................... TUESDAY, ilARCH 25, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO,
NEW JUDICIAL ‘APPOINTMENTS’ ........................ 1
LARGER WORKMEN COMPENSATION IN PIPELINE ....................... 5
FURTHER ISSUE OF 300 TAXI LICENCES............................ 5
GRAHAM BARNES to succeed JOHN WALDEN aS director OF HOME’ AFFAIRS .............................................. 6
BUDGET DEBATE RESUMES .TOMORROW ................................7
QUEEN’S BIRTHDaY CELEBRATIONS OPEN TO PUBLIC .................. 7
’THINK METRIC’ FOLDER PUBLISHED................................ 8
• .••••■. • ... • • • • • •
NEW ARRANGEMENT FOR POSTING OF HANDBILLS ...................... 9
LABOUR DEPARTMENT ACTS GN THOSE VIOLATING INDUSTRIAL SAFETY LAW .........................................10
AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE OPENS ON FRIDaY
11
FIRE IS THE BIGGEST THREAT TO COUNTRYSIDE ................... 12
SNT OPENS PO LEUNG KUK HOLIDAY CaMP ......................... 12
MORE WATER TO SUPPLY TAI 0................................... 13
SEMINAR FOR CAREERS MASTERS ................................ I'*
*•* * • • • •-•••• *
WINNERS OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION TO RECEIVE-PRIZES ............................... 15
HEALTH CARE EXHIBITION ...................................... 15
PRIZES FOR WIK ERS GF BOCK REPORT AND POSTER DESIGN- COMPETITION- ........................................ 16
TEMPORARY RO.-.D CLOSURE IN SHA TIN ............'............ 16
WATERCUT .........................•......... 16
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
1
NEW JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS
HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN HAS APPROVED THE APPOINTMENT OF MR JUSTICE LEONARD, MR JUSTICE LI AND MR JUSTICE CONS TO BE JUSTICES OF APPEAL OF THE SUPREME COURT OF HONG KONG.
THE QUEEN HAS ALSO APPROVED THE APPOINTMENT OF MR ROSS GRANGE PENLINGTON, MR BENJAMIN LIU TSZ-MING, MR EDWARD DE BEAUVOIR BEWLEY, MR JOHN JAMES RHIND AND MR NEIL MACDOUGALL TO BE HIGH COURT JUDGES OF THE SUPREME COURT.
ALL THE JUDGES WILL TAKE UP THEIR APPOINTMENTS ON APRIL 1, 1980.
AT THE SAME TIME, THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS HAS APPROVED THE APPOINTMENT OF MR HENRY WONG WEI-CHOW, MR PETER ALFRED GRANT CAMERON, MR BRIAN THOMAS CAIRD, MR GORDON NEIL CRUDEN, MR MORRIS STANLEY SHARWOOD, MR CHARLES GERARD DOYLE AND MR BERNARD WILLIAM MCDONALD DOWNEY AS DISTRICT JUDGES. THEY WILL ALSO ALL TAKE UP THEIR APPOINTMENTS ON APRIL 1, 1980 EXCEPT MR DOWNEY WHO WILL ASSUME OFFICE LATER THIS YEAR.
THE FOLLOWING ARE BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES OF THE JUDGES I
W JUSTICE LEONARD
HE WAS BORN IN IRELAND ON DECEMBER 28, 1919. HE WAS EDUCATED AT UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, DUBLIN, CALLED TO THE IRISH BAR IN 1941 AND TO THE ENGLISH BAR IN 1947. HE PRACTISED AT THE PRIVATE BAR IN IRELAND AND ALSO IN MALAYA AND SINGAPORE. HE JOINED THE HONG KONG JUDICIARY AS A MAGISTRATE IN 1957. BETWEEN 1961 AND 1970 HE WAS IN THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS RISING TO THE POST OF PRINCIPAL CROWN COUNSEL. HE WAS APPOINTED A DISTRICT JUDGE IN 1970 AND PUISNE JUDGE (NOW JUDGE OF THE HIGH COURT) IN 1971. HE HAS SAT IN THE COURT OF APPEAL ON MANY OCCASIONS.
JUSTICE LI
HE WAS BORN IN HONG KONG ON APRIL 19, 1922, AND WAS EDUCATED AT KING’S COLLEGE AND HONG KONG UNIVERSITY, CHINA AND LONDON. HE WAS CALLED TO THE ENGLISH BAR IN 1951. HE JOINED THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AS A CROWN COUNSEL IN 1953. IN 1957 HE SERVED AS A MAGISTRATE FOR A FEW MONTHS AND THEN RETURNED TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS WHERE HE BECAME SENIOR CROWN COUNSEL AND ALSO ACTED AS PRINCIPAL CROWN COUNSEL. HE WAS APPOINTED A DISTRICT JUDGE IN 1966 AND A PUISNE JUDGE (JUDGE OF THE HIGH COURT) IN 1971. HE HAS SAT IN THE COURT OF APPEAL ON MANY OCCASIONS.
/MR JUSTICE CONS.
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
2
MR JUSTICE CONS
HE WAS BORN IN ENGLAND ON JULY 15, 1928. AFTER ATTENDING BIRMINGHAM UNIVERSITY. HE WAS CALLED TO THE ENGLISH BAR IN 1953. HE JOINED THE HONG KONG JUDICIARY AS A MAGISTRATE IN 1955 AND. AFTER HOLDING A NUMBER OF DIFFERENT POSTS, WAS APPOINTED A DISTRICT JUDGE IN 1966 AND PUISNE JUDGE (JUDGE OF THE HIGH COURT) IN 1972. HE TOO HAS SAT IN THE COURT OF APPEAL ON MANY OCCASIONS.
JUDGE PENLINGTON
HE WAS BORN IN NEW ZEALAND ON MARCH 3, 1931. AFTER GRADUATING FROM CANTERBURY UNIVERSITY, HE WAS ADMITTED AS A BARRISTER AND SOLICITOR IN NEW ZEALAND IN 1955. AFTER SOME YEARS IN PRIVATE PRACTICE, HE JOINED THE GOVERNMENT OF SAMOA IN 1959 AS A SENIOR LEGAL OFFICER AND WAS APPOINTED MAGISTRATE OF WESTERN SAMOA IN 1961. HE JOINED THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AS CROWN COUNSEL IN 1964 AND FINALLY BECAME PRINCIPAL CROWN COUNSEL IN 1973. HE WAS APPOINTED A DISTRICT JUDGE IN 1977 AND HAS SAT AS A COMMISSIONER OF THE HIGH COURT.
JUDGE LIU
HE WAS BORN IN HONG KONG ON MAY 17, 1931. AFTER RECEIVING EDUCATION IN HONG KONG, HE JOINED LINCOLN'S INN IN 1954 AND WAS CALLED TO THE ENGLISH BAR IN 1957. HE THEN SPENT SOME 14 YEARS AT THE BAR IN HONG KONG WHERE HE WAS APPOINTED QUEEN'S COUNSEL. HE WAS APPOINTED A DISTRICT JUDGE IN 1973, AND HAS SAT AS A COMMISSIONER OF THE HIGH COURT ON MANY OCCASIONS.
JUDGE BEWLEY
HE WAS BORN IN LONDON ON MARCH 12, 1931. HE WAS EDUCATED AT SHREWSBURY SCHOOL AND TRINITY COLLEGE, DUBLIN. HE WAS CALLED TO THE ENGLISH BAR IN 1956. HE THEN JOINED THE GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN RHODESIA AND WAS LATER APPOINTED RESIDENT MAGISTRATE, NYASALAND IN 1961. HE JOINED THE HONG KONG JUDICIARY AS A MAGISTRATE IN 1964, WAS PROMOTED TO SENIOR MAGISTRATE AND PRINCIPAL MAGISTRATE. HE WAS APPOINTED A DISTRICT JUDGE IN 1976, AND HAS ACTED AS A COMMISSIONER OF THE HIGH COURT.
JUDGE RHIND
HE WAS BORN IN LONDON ON JANUARY 30, 1936. AFTER GRADUATING FROM LONDON UNIVERSITY, HE WAS ADMITTED AS A SOLICITOR IN ENGLAND IN 1961 AND CALLED TO THE BAR OF NEW SOUTH WALES IN 1974. AFTER A NUMBER OF YEARS IN PRIVATE PRACTICE, HE JOINED THE HONG KONG JUDICIARY AS A MAGISTRATE IN 1965. HE BECAME SENIOR MAGISTRATE IN 1969 AND ASSISTANT REGISTRAR OF THE SUPREME COURT IN 1974. HE WAS APPOINTED A DISTRICT JUDGE IN 1976, AND HAS SAT AS A COMMISSIONER OF THE HIGH COURT ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS.
/MR NEIL MACBQnflATj. ...
3
TUESDAY, MARCH ?5, 198c
MR NEIL MACDOUGALL
HE WAS BORN IN AUSTRALIA ON MARCH 13, 1932. HE GRADUATED FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA IN 1954 AND WAS ADMITTED AS A BARRISTER AND SOLICITOR OF THE SUPREME COURT OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA IN 1957. HE SPENT EIGHT YEARS IN THE OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY COMMONWEALTH CROWN SOLICITOR, PERTH, BEFORE JOINING THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AS CROWN COUNSEL IN 1965. HE BECAME SENIOR CROWN COUNSEL IN 1968 AND ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL CROWN COUNSEL IN 1973. HE WAS PROMOTED TO PRINCIPAL CROWN COUNSEL l-N 1977. HE HAS ACTED AS DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS, ASSISTANT TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND ASSISTANT TO THE LAW OFFICERS ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS.
MR WONG IS AT PRESENT A PRESIDING OFFICER IN THE LABOUR TRIBUNAL, MR CAMERON AND MR CRUDEN ARE ASSISTANT REGISTRARS OF THE SUPREME COURT AND MR DOYLE IS A PRINCIPAL MAGISTRATE. MR CAIRD AND MR SHARWOOD ARE ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL CROWN COUNSEL IN THE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S CHAMBERS AND MR DOWNEY IS A SENIOR LECTURER IN LAW AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG.
-----0------
LARGER WORKMEN COMPENSATION IN PIPELINE ******
WORKERS INJURED OR DEPENDENTS OF THOSE KILLED IN INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS CAN EXPECT LARGER COMPENSATION PAYMENTS IN THE NEAR FUTURE, THE ACTING COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR J C A HAMMOND, SAID TODAY (TUES&AY) WHEN OPENING A CONFERENCE ON INDUSTRIAL SAFETY.
MR HAMMOND ALSO STRESSED THE IMPORTANCE OF CO-OPERATION BETWEEN MANAGEMENT, WORKERS AND THE GOVERNMENT IN REDUCING THE NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS.
HE SAID THAT THIS WAS ALREADY BEGINNING TO TAKE SHAPE IN THE FORM OF A VOLUNTARY MOVEMENT UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD’S COMMITTEE ON INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION.
IN AN ADDRESS TO MORE THAN 160 SENIOR MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL ATTENDING THE ONE-DAY CONFERENCE HELD IN THE NEW WORLD HOTEL MR HAMMOND SAID THERE WERE 45 991 REPORTED INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS, INCLUDING 17 106 IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, IN HONG KONG IN 1979. THIS COMPARED WITH 39 242 IN 1978.
THE NUMBER OF DEATHS RESULTING FROM THESE ACCIDENTS WAS 163, AN INCREASE OF 22 OVER THE FIGURE FOR 1978. OF THESE 163 DEATHS, 95 TOOK PLACE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.
HOWEVER, MR HAMMOND POINTED OUT THAT THE SIZE OF THE INDUSTRIAL WORKFORCE AS A WHOLE ROSE FROM ABOUT 817 000 IN 1978 TO MORE THAN 870 000 IN 1979. THE WORKFORCE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY ALONE ROSE FROM ALMOST 74 000 TO MORE THAN 81 000 DURING THE SAME PERIOD.
/TO REDUCE .....
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
4
TO REDUCE THIS TRAGIC TOLL OF INJURIES AND DEATHS, THE GOVERNMENT HAD INTRODUCED MANY SETS OF REGULATIONS UNDER THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ORDINANCE TO PROTECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF PEOPLE AT WORK.
AND MORE WERE BEING PREPARED COVERING THE AREAS OF ELECTRICAL SAFETY AND FIRE SAFETY.
FOR ITS PART, THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S FACTORY INSPECTORATE HAD ADOPTED A THREE-PRONGED APPROACH TO PROMOTE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY.
FIRSTLY, REGULAR INSPECTIONS WERE MADE BY FACTORY INSPECTORS TO INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS TO ENFORCE LEGAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS, AND THE NUMBER OF FACTORY INSPECTORS AVAILABLE FOR THIS PURPOSE WAS BEING STEADILY INCREASED.
SECONDLY, INVESTIGATIONS WERE CONDUCTED INTO SERIOUS ACCIDENTS WITH A VIEW TO ESTABLISHING THE CAUSES AND PREVENTING THEIR RECURRENCE.
MR HAMMOND EXPLAINED THAT IN CASES WHERE DEATHS OCCURRED HIS DEPARTMENT WAS OFT^N OBLIGED TO WAIT FOR AN INQUEST BEFORE IT COULD MAKE THE FINDINGS KNOWN GENERALLY.
♦I THEREFORE WELCOME THE PROPOSALS WHICH HAVE BEEN MADE TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF CORONERS AND THEREBY SPEED UP THE HOLDING OF INQUESTS,* HE SAID.
THIRDLY, MR HAMMOND CONTINUED, THE INSPECTORATE UNDERTOOK THE IMPORTANT ROLE OF EDUCATING MANAGEMENT AND WORKERS IN ACCIDENT PREVENTION AND SAFE WORKING PRACTICES.
APART FROM ON-THE-SPOT ADVICE GIVEN TO MANAGEMENT BY FACTORY INSPECTORS, SAFETY TRAINING COURSES WERE PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE BY THE DEPARTMENT’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE FOR INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYEES AT ALL LEVELS.
THE CENTRE ALSO ORGANISED EXHIBITIONS, DISTRIBUTED SAFETY POSTERS AND PRODUCED SAFETY FILMS WITH THE AIM OF PUTTING ACROSS TO THE PUBLIC AT LARGE THE MESSAGE OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY.
♦HOWEVER, GOVERNMENT CANNOT HOPE TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM ON ITS OWN. TO ACHIEVE SUCCESS IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT MANAGEMENT AND WORKERS ALSO PLAY THEIR RESPECTIVE PARTS BY JOINING A VOLUNTARY INDUSTRIAL SAFETY MOVEMENT,♦ HE STRESSED.
MR HAMMOND POINTED OUT THAT SUCH A MOVEMENT WAS BEGINNING TO TAKE SHAPE UNDER THE COMMITTEE'S GUIDANCE.
THE COMMITTEE INCLUDED REPRESENTATIVES FROM LOCAL MAJOR INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATIONS AS WELL AS MEMBERS FROM THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD.
MR HAMMOND SAID HE HAD BEEN ENCOURAGED BY THE KEEN INTEREST IN INDUSTRIALSAFETY WHICH HAD BEEN SHOWN RECENTLY BY SEVERAL OTHER ORGANISATIONS REPRESENTING BOTH MANAGEMENT AND WORKERS.
/+LBGISLATION .....
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
5
♦LEGISLATION ALONE IS NOT A PANACEA FOR PREVENTING INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS. MANAGEMENT, ESPECIALLY THOSE AT SENIOR LEVEL, MUST BE FULLY AWARE OF THE ADVANTAGES AND IMPORTANCE OF PROVIDING A SAFE WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND SUITABLE SAFETY TRAINING FOR THEIR WORKERS,* HE TOLD THE GATHERING.
ON WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION, MR HAMMOND SAID THE TOTAL AMOUNT PAID OUT UNDER THE WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION ORDINANCE IN RESPECT OF OCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENTS IN 1979 WAS IN EXCESS OF $35 MILLION.
WHEN INDIRECT COSTS WERE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT, THE TOTAL LOSS TO EMPLOYERS COULD BE ESTIMATED TO HAVE BEEN IN THE REGION OF $175 MILLION.
ON THE PRESENT MAXIMUM LEVELS OF COMPENSATION PROVIDED UNDER THE ORDINANCE, MR HAMMOND POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS INTENDED TO RAISE THEM SUBSTANTIALLY IN THE NEAR FUTURE AND TO MAKE VARIOUS OTHER IMPROVEMENTS TO THE ORDINANCE WITH A VIEW TO IMPROVING THE SYSTEM OF ASSESSMENT AND SPEEDING UP THE PROCEDURE FOR OBTAINING COMPENSATION.
THE INTRODUCTION OF COMPULSORY WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION INSURANCE WAS ALSO UNDER ACTIVE CONSIDERATION.
AT THE ONE-DAY CONFERENCE, THE PARTICIPANTS HEARD TALKS GIVEN BY NINE EXPERTS ON INDUSTRIAL SAFETY IN CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING, TEXTILES, PLASTICS, METAL WORK AND OTHER RELATED SUBJECTS, WITH EMPHASIS ON PREVENTIVE MEASURES TO BE ADOPTED BY MANAGEMENTS TO REDUCE ACCIDENTS.
THEY ALSO SAW TWO SAFETY FILMS AND VISITED A MINI-EXHIBITION CF A WIDE RANGE OF SAFETY EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE IN HONG KONG.
- - 0 - -
FURTHER ISSUE OF 300 TAX I LICENCES * * * * *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL BE INVITING TENDERS FOR A FURTHER BATCH OF 300 HONG KONG AND KOWLOON TAXI LICENCES ON FRIDAY (MARCH 28).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SAID THAT TENDER FORMS WOULD BE AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION FROM FRIDAY FROM EITHER THE HONG KONG LICENSING OFFICE, MEZZANINE FLOOR, MURRAY ROAD MULTI-STOREY CAR PARK, OR FROM THE KOWLOON LICENSING OFFICE, 9/F, PARK-IN COMMERCIAL CENTRE, DUNDAS STREET.
TENDER FORMS FOR THIS EXERCISE WILL BE BLUE IN COLOUR. THE SPOKESMAN ADVISED INTENDING TENDERERS NOT TO USE ANY OTHER TYPE OF FORMS ISSUED PREVIOUSLY, OR OTHERWISE THEIR TENDERS MAY BE DECLARED VOID.
AS ON PREVIOUS OCCASIONS, THE TENDER WILL BE IN THE FORM OF A PREMIUM IN RESPECT OF ONE OR MORE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON TAXIS.
/the spokesman
TUESDAY, MABCH 25, 1980
6
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT A TENDERER MAY SUBMIT ONE TENDER FORM FOR ONE OR MORE LICENCES. BUT NOT EXCEEDING 300. THE TENDERER MAY ALSO SUBMIT MORE THAN ONE TENDER FORM. BUT IF A SINGLE TENDER FORM IS SUBMITTED FOR MORE THAN ONE LICENCE THEN THE PREMIUM OFFERED FOR EACH LICENCE MUST BE THE SAME.
HE ADDEDl ♦IF THE NUMBER OF AVAILABLE LICENCES IS LESS THAN THE NUMBER REQUIRED BY A TENDERER THEN A SMALLER NUMBER OF LICENCES MAY BE ALLOCATED TO HIM AS APPROPRI ATE.♦ A PUBLIC BALLOT MAY BE HELD TO DETERMINE THE ACCEPTANCE OF THOSE TENDERS IF THE UNIT PREMIA WHICH THEY OFFERED ARE IDENTICAL.
COMPLETED TENDER FORMS TOGETHER WITH THE ORIGINAL DEPOSIT RECEIPTS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN SEALED ENVELOPES, ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY, CENTRAL TENDER BOARD, AND PLACED IN THE SECRETARIAT TENDER BOX IN THE ENTRANCE HALL ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES (MAIN WING), LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG, BEFORE 12 NOON ON FRIDAY, APRIL 11.
LATE TENDERS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
SUCCESSFUL TENDERERS WOULD BE ISSUED TAXI LICENCES AT THE RATE OF 100 PER MONTH STARTING FROM THE BEGINNING OF JUNE WITH THE HIGHEST TENDERS RECEIVING PRIORITY.
-----o------
GRAHAM BARNES TO SUCCEED JOHN WALDEN AS DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS
******
THE DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS, MR JOHN WALDEN, WILL RETIRE FROM THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT SERVICE IN EARLY SEPTEMBER 1980. HE WILL BE SUCCEEDED BY MR GRAHAM BARNES, THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT.
MR WALDEN, AGED 55, HAS BEEN IN HONG KONG FOR 28 YEARS. HE JOINED THE ADMINISTRATIVE CLASS IN 1952 AND SERVED ALTOGETHER IN SEVEN DEPARTMENTS.
HIS APPOINTMENTS HAVE INCLUDED DEPUTY DISTRICT COMMISSIONER OF THE NEW TERRITORIES AND DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF HOUSING. HE WAS APPOINTED DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS IN 1977 AND HAS ACTED AS SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS ON MANY OCCASIONS. HE HAS SERVED ON THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SINCE SEPTEMBER 1977.
MR BARNES IS AGED 45. HE WAS APPOINTED ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER IN DECEMBER 1958, AND HAS SERVED IN THE RESETTLEMENT DEPARTMENT AND THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION. HE JOINED THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS BRANCH, WHICH WAS SUBSEQUENTLY INCORPORATED INTO THE ENVIRONMENT BRANCH OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT IN 1971. DURING HIS POSTING IN THE ENVIRONMENT BRANCH MR BARNES HAS SPECIALISED IN LAND ADMINISTRATION. MR BARNES SPEAKS BOTH CANTONESE AND MANDARIN.
MR JOHN TODD, AGED 51, WILL SUCCEED MR BARNES AS DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT. MR TODD HAD BEEN DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES FOR ABOUT FOUR YEARS UNTIL DECEMBER 1979 WHEN HE WENT ON LEAVE.
0 - - - _ /7.....
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
7
BUDGET DEBATE RESUMES TOMORROW * * * *
THE BUDGET DEBATE WILL RESUME IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) WHEN 10 UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS WILL EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS ON THE BUDGET PROPOSALS. THE DEBATE WILL CONTINUE ON THURSDAY WITH 10 OTHER UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS SPEAKING.
TOMORROW’S SPEAKERS ARE THE HON ROGER LOBO, THE HON LI FOOK-WO, DR THE HON HARRY FANG, THE HON T.S. LO, THE HON FRANCIS TIEN, REV THE HON JOYCE BENNETT, THE HON S.L. CHEN, THE HON LYDIA DUNN, DR THE HON HENRY HU AND THE HON LEUNG TAT-SHING.
BEFORE THE BUDGET DEBATE RESUMES, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR JACK CATER WILL MAKE A STATEMENT TOMORROW ON HONG KONG’S PARTICIPATION IN THE OLYMPIC GAMES.
THE OTHER 10 UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS WHO WILL SPEAK ON THURSDAY ARE THE HON ALEX WU, THE HON PETER C. WONG, THE HON WONG LAM, THE HON CHARLES YEUNG, DR THE HON HO KAM-FAI, THE HON ALLEN LEE, THE HON DAVID NEWBIGGING, THE HON ANDREW SO, THE HON F.K. HU AND THE HON WONG PO-YAN.
OFFICIAL MEMBERS WILL REPLY TO POINTS RAISED BY THEIR UNOFFICIAL COUNTERPARTS ON APRIL 16 AND 17.
THE SITTINGS ON WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY WILL BE BROADCAST LIVE BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG ON RADIO 2 (CHINESE) AND RADIO 4 (ENGLISH) FROM 2.30 PM.
------o-------
QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS OPEN TO PUBLIC * * * *
MEMBERS OF PUBLIC WHO WISH TO TAKE PART IN THE ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMME AT VICTORIA PARK ON APRIL 21 IN CELEBRATION OF THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY ARE INVITED TO GIVE THEIR NAMES TO THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE (RSS).
THE COLOURFUL EVENT WILL BE OPENED BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, SIR PHILIP HADDON-CAVE AT 9.30 AM AND WILL BEGIN WITH A DRAGON DANCE, ORIENTAL DANCES AND PERFORMANCES BY TV DANCERS.
THESE WILL BE FOLLOWED BY DEMONSTRATIONS IN VARIOUS SPORTS AND SKILLS, AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WILL BE INVITED TO TAKE PART IN A VARIETY OF GAMES AND COMPETITIONS.
FOR THE MORE ENERGETIC, THERE IS A ROUND-THE-PARK RACE AND A DISCO DANCE. TEAMS, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN, WILL COMPETE FOR CHAMPIONSHIPS IN MINI SOCCER AND BASKETBALL. CHILDREN AND OLD PEOPLE WILL HAVE THEIR OWN POTTED SPORTS. OTHER GAMES INCLUDE ARCHERY, SKATE BOARD RIDES AND FISH CATCHING.
APPLICATION FORMS FOR PARTICIPATION IN MOST OF THE EVENTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE FOUR RSS DISTRICT OFFICES ON HONG KONG ISLANDi
EASTERN: 880-886 KING’S ROAD, GROUND FLOOR, NORTH POINT. (TEL. 5-641543)
/WAN chai : .....
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
8
WAN CHA 11 RM 303, TUNG WAH MANSION, 199-203 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI. (TEL. 5-724844)
CENTRAL AND WESTERNi WAH YING CHEONG BUILDING, 12TH FLOOR, 158-164 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL.
(TEL. 5-438559)
SOUTHERNS 52-64 ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD, GROUND FLOOR, ABERDEEN. (TEL. 5-534111, EXT. 10)
CELEBRATION EVENTS WILL ALSO BE STAGED AT PARKS AND SPORTS GROUNDS THROUGHOUT OTHER URBAN AREAS AND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
DETAILS OF THESE WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER.
-----o------
'THINK METRIC’ FOLDER PUBLISHED ******
AN ILLUSTRATED FOLDER HAS BEEN PUBLISHED BY THE METRICATION COMMITTEE TO EDUCATE THE PUBLIC IN USING THE METRIC SYSTEM.
THE BILINGUAL FOLDER, ENTITLED +THINK METRIC*, IS THE FIRST OF A SERIES OF PUBLICATIONS INTENDED TO HELP THE PUBLIC TO UNDERSTAND THE METRICATION NOW BEING GRADUALLY ADOPTED IN HONG KONG.
WITH THE USE OF ILLUSTRATIONS, INCLUDING TV PERSONALITY MiSS LYDIA SUNG. A DOUBLE DECKER BUS AND A MEASURING GLASS, THE FOLDER EXPLAINS I ft SIMPLE TERMS THE USE OF THE MOST COMMON METRIC UNITS WHICH WILL AFFECT THE DAILY LIFE OF PEOPLE IN HONG KONG.
MR PETER SO, SENIOR METRICATION OFFICER OF THE METRICATION COMMITTEE SAID, +AS MORE THAN 99 PER CENT OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION IS NOW USING, OR CHANGING TO, THE METRIC SYSTEM, WE MUST ALSO CHANGE TO METRIC TO FACILITATE OUR BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS OVERSEAS.*
*WE WOULD LIKE TO REMIND THE PUBLIC TO GET PREPARED FOR THE CHANGES IN WEIGHTS AND MEASURES GRADUALLY. AND TO MAKE THE CHANGES EASY FOR THEM, THEY SHOULD START TO THINK METRIC NOW,* HE SAID.
HE ADDED, *THE METRIC SYSTEM, WITH UNITS GOING UP AND DOWN IN TENS, IS EASY TO LEARN AND REMEMBER, AND MAKE CALCULATION FASTER AND SIMPLER.*
A TOTAL OF 250 000 COPIES OF THE NEW FOLDER HAVE BEEN PRINTED AND WILL BE AVAILABLE FREE TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) FROM ALL CITY DISTRICT OFFICES, DISTRICT OFFICES, POST OFFICES, MANAGEMENT OFFICES OF HOUSING ESTATES, ADVICE CENTRES OF THE CONSUMER COUNCIL AND THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE.
COPIES OF THE FOLDER WILL ALSO BE SENT TO SCHOOLS, COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES FOR REFERENCE OF TEACHERS AND STUDENTS.
0 -------
/9
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
9
NEW ARRANGEMENT FOR POSTING OF HANDBILLS * * * ft * *
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE REMINDED THAT IT IS NO LONGER NECESSARY TO SEND COPIES OF POSTERS OR HANDBILLS PRODUCED IN CHINESE TO THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS OR THE SECRETARY FOR THE l€W TERRITORIES FOR PRIOR APPROVAL.
SUCH REQUIREMENT HAS ALREADY BEEN REMOVED BY THE SUMMARY OFFENCES (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE, PASSED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON FEBRUARY 13.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN EMPHASISED THAT WHILE IT IS NO LONGER NECESSARY TO SEEK APPROVAL UNDER THIS ORDINANCE, CONTENTS OF POSTERS AND HANDBILLS ARE STILL REGULATED BY OTHER PROVISIONS OF THE LAW.
FOR EXAMPLE, IT IS AN OFFENCE TO ADVERTISE*
ft UNLICENSED PUBLIC MEETINGS OR PROCESSIONS,
ft MATERIALS IN CONNECTION WITH FILMS EXHIBITED WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE FILM CENSOR,
ft MATERIALS REFERRING TO ANY PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE LICENSING AUTHORITY,
ft MATERIALS WITH SEDITIOUS INTENTIONS,
ft PRINTED DOCUMENT WITHOUT THE FULL NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE PRINTER,
ft ABORTION OR THE SALE OF MEDICINES OR SURGICAL APPLIANCES, OR
ft ANYTHING OBJECTIONABLE — INDECENT. OBSCENE OR OF REVOLTING NATURE, OR OF A KIND PORTRAYING SEX, VIOLENCE OR CRUELTY.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO POINTED OUT THAT UNDER THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND URBAN SERVICES (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE PASSED IN THE SAME LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SITTING LAST MONTH, BILLS OR POSTERS ON CROWN LAND CAN ONLY BE DISPLAYED WITH THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE AUTHORITY (THE URBAN COUNCIL IN URBAN AREAS AND THE DIRECTOR OF URBAN SERVICES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES), OR, IF ON PRIVATE LAND, THE OWNER OR OCCUPIER OF THE LAND.
THESE POSTERS MUST BE KEPT IN A CLEAN AND TIDY CONDITION. FAILURE TO DO SO THE AUTHORITY IS EMPOWERED TO REMOVE THEM AND RECOVER THE COST OF REMOVAL FROM THE OFFENDER.
UNDER THIS NEW LAW, THE EMPLOYER OF THE PERSON WHO PUTS UP THE UNAUTHORISED BILL OR POSTER AND THE PERSON WHO BENEFITS FROM THE PUBLICITY MAY ALSO BE PENALISED, UNLESS THEY CAN PROVE THAT THEY DO NOT KNOW OR HAVE NOT AGREED TO THE DISPLAY.
-------o ---------
/1O......
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
10
LABOUR DEPARTMENT ACTS ON THOSE VIOLATING INDUSTRIAL SAFETY LAW
* * * *
HONG KONG COURTS LAST YEAR HEARD 3 397 CASES FOR BREACH OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY LAWS, AND METED OUT FINES TOTALLING MORE THAN $2.5 MILLION.
DURING THE SAME YEAR, THE INSPECTORATE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT CONDUCTED 38 851 INSPECTIONS OF FACTORIES AND CONSTRUCTION SITES AND 3 784 ACCIDENT INVESTIGATIONS.
THIS WAS DISCLOSED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR, MR CHAN SIU-LAP, AT THE SENIOR MANAGEMENT INDUSTRIAL SAFETY CONFERENCE AT NEW WORLD HOTEL TODAY (TUESDAY).
IN REPLY TO CRITICISM OF THE INSPECTORATE, MR CHAN COMPARED THE FIGURES TO THOSE OF THE UNITED KINGDOM.
IN HONG KONG LAST YEAR THERE WERE 3 397 PROSECUTIONS IN RELATION TO 45 991 INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS, WHILE IN THE UK THERE WERE 3 947 PROSECUTIONS IN RELATION TO 244 436 ACCIDENTS.
ON INSPECTIONS MADE BY THE INSPECTORATE, MR CHAN SAID ITS 120 INSPECTORS ENDEAVOURED TO INSPECT ALL THE 47 171 FACTORIES AND 1 400 CONSTRUCTION SITES, BUT THIS WAS OBVIOUSLY AN IMPOSSIBLE TASK.
TO ENSURE THE BEST DEPLOYMENT OF MANPOWER, THE INSPECTORATE, IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE GOVERNMENT ORGANISATION AND METHODS UNIT, HAD DEVISED A PRIORITY SYSTEM.
UNDER THE SYSTEM, PRIORITY AND FREQUENCY OF INSPECTION TO AN ESTABLISHMENT WAS RATED ACCORDING TO ITS SAFETY PERFORMANCE, SIZE OF WORKFORCE, COMPLEXITY OF PLANT AND ACCIDENT RECORD.
NO INDUSTRIAL SAFETY PROGRAMME WOULD SUCCEED WITHOUT THE FULL PARTICIPATION AND CO-OPERATION OF ALL THREE PARTIES, NAMELY THE GOVERNMENT, THE EMPLOYERS AS WELL AS THE EMPLOYEES, MR CHAN STRESSED.
FOR ITS PART, HE ADDED, THE INSPECTORATE HAD BEEN INCREASINGLY EXERCISING A DUAL ROLEi TO SEE THAT THE LAW WAS OBSERVED AND TO OFFER ADVICE, PARTICULARLY ON MATTERS WHICH THE LAW DID NOT, AND PERHAPS COULD NOT, COVER.
HOWEVER, THE MAIN HOPE FOR TACKLING THE PROBLEM LAY WITH THE ADEQUATE EDUCATION AND TRAINING OF EVERYONE IN INDUSTRY.
HE ADVISED THE PARTICIPANTS OF THE CONFERENCE TO SERIOUSLY CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING POINTS!
X TO HAVE A CLEAR AND PRECISE SAFETY POLICY STATEMENT AND PROCEDURES, PREFERABLE COMING FROM THE TOP MANAGEMENT"
* SOMEONE WITH AUTHORITY, AND ACCESS TO THE BOARDROOM, SHOULD HAVE OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY FOR SAFETY IN THE ESTABLISHMENT"
/* '.VHEN PURCHASIN'!
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
11
M WHEN PURCHASING NEW PLANT OR PREPARING NEW TENDERS. BUDGET FOR SAFETY. SAFETY SHOULD BE REGARDED AS AN ESSENTIAL ITEM AND NOT A LUXURY-
* GIVE THOROUGH JOB TRAINING, WHICH SHOULD INCLUDE SUITABLE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS, TO ALL NEW WORKERS- AND
* SUSTAIN WORKERS’ INTEREST IN SAFETY BY MEETINGS, CAMPAIGNS, BONUS SYSTEMS AND SO ON.
IN CONCLUSION, MR CHAN SAID A LITTLE FORESIGHT IN TAKING SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WAS BUT A SMALL PRICE TO PAY FOR THE HUMAN SUFFERING AND FINANCIAL LOSS INCURRED IN INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS.
0 - -
AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE OPENS ON FRIDAY * * ft ft ft ft
THE 160 MILLION AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE AND ITS APPROACH ROADS, THE FIRST TO LINK HONG KONG ISLAND WITH ONE OF ITS OFFSHORE ISLANDS, WILL BE OFFICIALLY OPENED ON FRIDAY (MARCH 28).
SENIOR UNOFFICIAL MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, THE HON SIR Y K KAN, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 11 AM.
MOTORISTS ARE ADVISED THAT THE SOUTHERN APPROACH ROADS LINKING THE BRIDGE AND AP LEI CHAU ARE ONLY OPEN TO AUTHORISED VEHICLES REQUIRING ACCESS TO AP LEI CHAU HOUSING ESTATE UNTIL ALL CONSTRUCTION WORKS ON THE APPROACH ROADS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED.
IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE OPENING OF THE NEW BRIDGE, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAS ANNOUNCED THAT ALL PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES EXCEPT THOSE AUTHORISED IN WRITING BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM USING THE AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE.
TO FACILITATE THE OPENING CEREMONY ON FRIDAY, AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH WONG CHUK HANG ROAD TO A POINT AT THE WESTERN BOUNDARY OF THE HARBOUR MISSION SCHOOL ON AP LEI CHAU WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC EXCEPT EMERGENCY VEHICLES FROM 10 AM TO 12 NOON ON THAT DAY.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
NOTE TO ED I TORS 1
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE AT 11 AM ON FRIDAY (MARCH 28).
TRANSPORT WILL BE PROVIDED. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WISHING TO MAKE USE OF THIS FACILITY ARE REQUESTED TO ASSEMBLE AT THE OPEN CAR PARK OUTSIDE THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT’S RECEPTION OFFICE, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, NOT LATER THAN 10 AM. OFFICERS FROM PWD’S PUBLICITY UNIT WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST THE PRESS.
- - 0 - _
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 198Q-
12
FIRE IS THE BIGGEST THREAT TO COUNTRYSIDE
******
FIRE IS WITHOUT DOUBT THE BIGGEST SINGLE THREAT TO THE COUNTRYSIDE IN TERMS OF ITS SCENIC APPEARANCE AND VALUE AS A RECREATIONAL RESOURCE FOR THE PEOPLE.
THE SENIOR COUNTRY PARKS OFFICER OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT, MR JOHN WHOLEY, SAID THIS AT THE KOWLOON EAST ROTARY CLUB LUNCHEON TODAY (TUESDAY).
ALL HILL FIRES IN HONG KONG, HE SAID, CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO HUMAN CARELESSNESS.
♦NATURAL CAUSES OF FIRE SUCH AS LIGHTNING STRIKE AND SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION ARE VIRTUALLY UNKNOWN HERE,* HE SAID.
AND AS A WARNING FOR THE COMING CHING MING FESTIVAL, MR WHOLEY SAID THIS WAS ONE OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT SINGLE FACTORS IN THE HILL FIRE PROBLEM.
RELATING IT TO A SIMILAR FESTIVAL — CHUNG YEUNG — LAST OCTOBER HE SAID THERE WERE 145 FIRES OVER THE THREE-DAY PERIOD IN THE COUNTRYSIDE.
♦OVER THE LAST TEN YEARS, THE AVERAGE NUMBER OF OUTBREAKS OF HILL FIRE HAS EXCEEDED 500 PER ANNUM. IT IS IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND THAT ANY ONE OF THESE OUTBREAKS COULD EASILY HAVE DEVELOPED INTO THE SORT OF FIRE WHICH OCCURRED LAST NOVEMBER. THIS BURNT FOR 29 HOURS DAMAGING 500 HECTARES OF LAND AND A QUARTER OF A MILLION OF TREES,♦ SAID MR WHOLEY.
HE ADDED THAT HILL FIRE FIGHTING REQUIRED THE CO-ORDINATION OF TEAM WORK. FIRE FIGHTING CREWS OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT ATTENDED TO MORE THAN 3 000 FIRES IN THE PAST DECADE AND THIS INCLUDED 400 SINCE LAST OCTOBER.
BUT ASSISTANCE, HE SAID, ALSO CAME FROM THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, CIVIL AID SERVICES. THE ROYAL HONG KONG AIR FORCE AND THE ROYAL AUXILIARY AIR FORCE (WITH THEIR HELICOPTERS FOR WATER BOMBING).
0 - -
SNT OPENS PO LEUNG KUK HOLIDAY CAMP * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT WILL DO ALL IT CAN TO HELP ANY ORGANISATION WITH PRACTICAL PROPOSALS AND SUFFICIENT FINANCIAL RESOURCES TO DEVELOP HOLIDAY CAMPS, SECRETARY FOR NEW TERRITORIES MR DAVID AKERS-JONES SAID TODAY.
HE NOTED THAT, UNTIL QUITE RECENTLY, OPPORTUNITIES FOR GETTING AWAY FROM HOME FOR A FEW DAYS WITHOUT GOING OVERSEAS WERE VIRTUALLY NON-EXISTENT IN HONG KONG.
♦NOW THERE ARE MORE THAN 40 HOLIDAY CAMPS, HOSTELS AND YOUTH CENTRES WITH OVERNIGHT STAY FACILITIES,♦ HE SAID.
As AKERS-JONES
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
13
MR AKERS-JONES WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING AND INDOOR GAMES HALL OF THE PAK TAM CHUNG HOLIDAY CAMP. THIS IS STAGE TWO OF A THREE-STAGE PROJECT BEING UNDERTAKEN BY THE PO LEUNG KUK TO CATER FOR GROWING INTEREST IN CAMPING AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE.
THE PAK TAM CHUNG HOLIDAY CAMP IS BEING DEVELOPED ON A 4.8-HECTARE SITE GRANTED BY GOVERNMENT BETWEEN TAI MONG TSAI AND HIGH ISLAND RESERVOIR, SAI KUNG.
THE FIRST PHASE OF THE PROJECT. WHICH MR AKERS-JONES HIMSELF OPENED A YEAR AGO, COMPRISES SEVEN TWO-STOREY HOSTEL BLOCKS AND SITE FORMATION FOR THE CAMP, INCLUDING SPORTS GROUNDS AND CAR PARKS.
MR AKERS-JONES SAID THE CAMP HAD ALREADY GIVEN MUCH HEALTHY EXERCISE AND A REFRESHING HOLIDAY FOR A GREAT MANY PEOPLE.
♦THIS NEW BUILDING WILL INCREASE THE RESIDENTIAL CAPACITY AND PROVIDE A LARGE INDOOR SPACE FOR GAMES AND ACTIVITIES.*
MR AKERS-JONES CONGRATULATED MRS KITTY SIU HON-SUM, CHAIRMAN OF THE PO LEUNG KUK, AND OTHER KUK DIRECTORS ON THEIR REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT IN COMPLETING PHASE 2 OF THIS VERY AMBITIOUS AND WORTHWHILE PROJECT IN ONE YEAR.
THEY HAD CREATED IN THE COUNTRYSIDE A PLACE SO ATTRACTIVE AND RESTFUL THAT IN THIS BUSY WORLD, FOR A SHORT WHILE AT LEAST, ♦THOSE COMING HERE CAN FORGET THEIR CARES.♦
HE HOPED FUTURE CHAIRMEN AND DIRECTORS WOULD CONTINUE TO DEVELOP THIS WORTHWHILE EXTENSION OF THE FIELD OF SERVICE AND ACTIVITIES OF THE PO LEUNG KUK.
UNDER THE THIRD PHASE OF THE PROJECT, A SWIMMING POOL, A SEA ACTIVITY CENTRE, A CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND AND THREE DORMITORY BLOCKS WILL BE BUILT.
------0-------
MORE WATER TO SUPPLY TAI 0 ft ft ft
SUPPLY OF TREATED WATER TO TA I 0 RESIDENTS ON LANTAU ISLAND WILL BE INCREASED WITH THE CONSTRUCTION OF A SECOND SERVICE RESERVOIR AND EXTENSION TO THE TREATMENT WORKS AT LEUNG UK.
THE CONTRACT FOR THE PROJECT, WHICH COSTS MORE THAN 12.5 MILLION, WAS SIGNED THIS (TUESDAY) MORNING BETWEEN THE CHIEF ENGINEER (CONSTRUCTION), MR LEE GUN-CHEUNG, OF THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF CHING HING CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LTD.
THE SERVICE RESERVOIR TO BE BUILT WILL HAVE A CAPACITY OF 490 CUBIC METRES. AN ADDITIONAL PRESSURE FILTER WILL BE INSTALLED AND CHEMICAL TREATMENT FACILITIES WILL BE UPGRADED.
BETTER STORAGE AREAS, A BARRACK ROOM AND AN OFFICE FOR THE WATERWORKS OPERATION STAFF WILL ALSO BE PROVIDED.
/TEE PROJECT...
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 19§0
14
THE PROJECT WILL INCREASE THE VOLUME OF TREATED FRESH WATER SUPPLY FROM THE CURRENT 910 CUBIC METRES TO 1 460 CUBIC METRES A DAY.
WORK IS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN NEXT WEEK AND WILL TAKE ABOUT 12 MONTHS TO FINISH.
SEMINAR FOR CAREERS MASTERS
* I » I
THE ANNUAL CAREERS MASTERS’ SEMINAR FOR PRINCIPALS AND CAREERS TEACHERS WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
THE SEMINAR IS JOINTLY SPONSORED BY THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION CF CAREERS MASTERS AND THE HANG SENG BANK LTD WITH AN AIM TO STUDY THE WORK AND PROFESS IONALI SAT ION OF CAREERS TEACHERS.
IT WILL CONSIST OF TWO SESSIONS WITH AN OPENING CEREMONY PERFORMED BY HR Q.W. LEE, IN HIS CAPACITY AS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION.
THE FIRST SESSION IS DEVOTED TO THE STUDY OF THE ROLE OF THE CAREERS TEACHER AND INCLUDES TALKS IN CHINESE ON TOPICS LIKE *THE DUTIES OF THE CAREERS TEACHER* AND *HIS PREPARATION AND TRAINING*.
THE SECOND SESSION DEALS WITH THE RESOURCE MATERIALS REQUIRED BY THE CAREERS TEACHER AND COVERS TALKS IN ENGLISH ON TOPICS SUCH AS +FURTHER STUDIES - ABROAD AND LOCAL* AND ^MANPOWER DEMAND IN THE 1980’S*.
NOTE TO EDITORSi
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE CAREERS MASTERS’ SEMINAR, WHICH WILL BE HELD AT THE HANG SENG BANK BUILDING, 77 DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL, 20TH FLOOR, FROM 9 AM TO 1 PM TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
- - o - -
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
15
WINNERS OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION TO RECEIVE PRIZES ft ft ft ft
WINNERS OF THE ANNUAL INDUSTRIAL SAFETY POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL RECEIVE THEIR PRIZES TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
THE PRESENTATION WILL BE MADE BY THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF NGO KEE CONSTRUCTION LTD, MR JOHN LOO.
THE COMPETITION, WHICH AIMS AT MAKING STUDENTS MORE AWARE OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY, ATTRACTED MORE THAN 340 ENTRIES FROM 39 SCHOOLS.
NOTE TO EDITORSi
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE PRIZE PRESENTATION TO WINNERS OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION WHICH WILL BE HELD AT 3.30 PM TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) AT THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF THE CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 393 CANTON ROAD.
-----o------
HEALTH CARE EXHIBITION ft ft ft ft ft
A +HEALTHY NEW GENERATION* EXHIBITION ORGANISED BY THE PED ICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT WILL BE HELD IN THE CITY HALL EXHIBITION HALL FROM THURSDAY (MARCH 27) TO SUNDAY (MARCH 30).
THERE WILL BE STATIC DISPLAY, EDUCATIONAL MOVIES, SLIDE SHOWS AND LIVE DEMONSTRATIONS ON VARIOUS ASPECTS OF HEALTH CARE OF THE MOTHER AND CHILD.
AN UNOFFICIAL MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS, PR R.H. LOBO WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING OF THE EXHIBITION AT 11 AM ON THURSDAY.
NOTE TO EDITORSi
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE +HEALTHY NEW GENERATION* EXHIBITION ORGANISED BY THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT IN THE CITY HALL EXHIBITION HALL AT 11 AM ON THURSDAY (MARCH 27).
/16......
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 1980
16
NOTE TO EDITORSi
PRIZES FOR WINNERS OF BOOK REPORT AND POSTER DESIGN COMPETITIONS *****
THE DIRECTOR OF URBAN SERVICES, MR BRIAN WILSON, WILL PRESENT PRIZES TO WINNERS OF THE BOOK REPORT COMPETITION AND THE POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) AT 4 PM AT KWAI CHUNG PUBLIC LIBRARY IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE TWO COMPETITIONS ARE PART OF EXTENSION ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY LIBRARIES OF THE NEW TERRITORIES SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THIS EVENT. TRANSPORT FOR THE PRESS WILL BE PROVIDED. A GOVERNMENT VAN (AM 3213) WILL BE PARKED AT MIDDLE ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI (BEHIND PENINSULA HOTEL) AND WILL DEPART AT 3 PM FOR KWAI CHUNG PUBLIC LIBRARY ON THIRD FLOOR, MAI CHUNG/MAI KWAI MANSION, 87-89 WO TONG TSUI STREET, KWAI CHUNG.
---0------
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN SHA TIN * * * *
A SECTION OF ROAD +T2+ BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH
LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD AND ITS JUNCTION WITH SHA TIN BYPASS NEAR
WO CHE ESTATE WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FOR SIX HOURS FROM MIDNIGHT
TO 6 AM DAILY ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY (MARCH 28 AND THE DISMANTLING OF TWO TEMPORARY BRIDGES.
29) TO FACILITATE
cu. °URINe THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE, TRAFFIC WILL BE DIVERTED VIA SHA TIN BYPASS. APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTOR I STS.
-----0------
WATER CUT * * *
BE
TO 6 AH THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE WATER hJiScOwEeCTIONs’
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL 5-233191
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 19^0
CONTENTS PhGE KO,
participation in Olympic games in Moscow not
IN HK’S INTEREST........................................ 1
APPOINTMENT OF URBAN COUNCILLORS ....................... 2
PROVISIONAL TRADE FIGURES FOR FEBRUARY ................. 2
CONSUMER PRICE INDICES FOR FEBRUARY .....................5
UNIFIED CONTROL OF LaND MATTERS SUGGESTED............... 6
LAND ADMINISTRATION NEEDS RESTRUCTURING .................8
GOVERNMENT URGED TO REVIE* PERSONAL TaXaTION ANNUALLY 1.11.......................................... 10
NEW AIRPORT ECONOMICALLY JUSTIFIABLE ................ 10
NEW MRRaNGEilENTS TO CREATE POSTS IN CIVIL SERVICE EFFECTIVE NEXT MONTH .................................. 11
GOVERNMENT ASKED TO ACT ON REHABILITATION PLAN......... 1J
DEPENDENCE ON CAPITAL REVENUE SHOULD BE REDUCED........ 14
HELP REQUIRED FOR THREE GROUPS OF PEOPLE............... 15
/HK NEEDS ....
HK NEEDS PERMANENT TRnDE EXHIBITION CENTRE ...................... 17
CCNTRiCT SIGNED FOR SITE FORK.TICN WORK IN Sila TIN.............. 18
POSTER .iN EFFECTIVE MEaK TO PUT ACROSS INDUSTRIAL SAFETY MESSAGE .................................................. 19
.J*"’. —
FaCT ’FINDING VISIT'to UK ..................■ 20
PRESENTATION OF COLOM A PRISON SERVICE MEDALS ................... 20
PASSING-OUT 'PMUDE 'OF IMMIGRATION OFFICERS ..................... 21
FLO-/ER SHO.V TO OPEN AT 'F. RULING.............................. 21
CHILDREN'S ARTS EXHIBITION III YUEN L01G ........................ 22
STUDY'ROOMS'FOR STUDENTS ........................................ 2J
HOLIDAY ARJUr:GHENTS FCR MaMEE DEPARTMENT ....................... 24
I ...... • • • .......... .... ...............
WATER CUT
24
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
1
PARTICIPATION IN OLYMPIC GAMES IN MOSCOW NOT IN HK’S INTEREST ******
THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR JACK CATER, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT IT WOULD NOT BE IN HONG KONG’S INTEREST TO ATTEND THE FORTHCOMING OLYMPIC GAMES IN MOSCOW IN THE LIGHT OF THE VIEW TAKEN BY THOSE GOVERNMENTS WITH WHICH HONG KONG HAS CLOSEST RELATIONS.
STATING THIS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, SIR JACK SAID THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT ACCEPTED THE VIEW OF THOSE GOVERNMENTS WHICH ASSERTED THAT PARTICIPATION IN OLYMPIC GAMES IN THE SOVIET CAPITAL WOULD BE INAPPROPRIATE WHILE SOVIET TROOPS REMAINED IN AFGHANISTAN.
♦I MUST THEREFORE URGE ALL CONCERNED TO CONSIDER VERY SERIOUSLY THE ADVISABILITY OF NOT ATTENDING THE GAMES IN MOSCOW, AND TO REACH NO HASTY DECISIONS,* SIR JACK SAID.
HE SAID THAT ALTHOUGH THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT SUBSCRIBED TO THE HIGH OLYMPIC IDEAL AND TO THE PRINCIPLE THAT THE GAMES SHOULD BE DIVORCED FROM POLITICS, IT WOULD HAVE BECOME CLEAR THAT THIS YEAR PARTICIPATION IN THE GAMES WOULD HAVE VERY DEFINITE POLITICAL IMPLICATIONS IN TERMS OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS.
+THIS IS A FACT THAT HONG KONG CAN DO NOTHING ABOUT, AND HONG KONG AS A COMMUNITY IS UNIQUELY DEPENDENT ON ITS INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS,* HE ADDED.
SIR JACK POINTED OUT THAT THE EVENTUAL DECISION WHETHER TO PARTICIPATE OR NOT LAY WITH MEMBERS OF THE AMATEUR SPORTS FEDERATION (ASF) AND THE OLYMPIC COMMITTEE (OC) OF HONG KONG.
*HOWEVER,+ SIR JACK SAID, +THIS GOVERNMENT COULD NOT ALLOW ITSELF TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH PARTICIPATION BY PROVIDING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE.*
SIR JACK ADDED THAT THIS POSITION OF THE GOVERNMENT ON FINANCIAL SUPPORT WAS BASED ON POLITICAL PRINCIPLES.
♦EVEN IF ASF AND OC HAVE OTHER FUNDS AT THEIR DISPOSAL WHICH WOULD ENABLE PARTICIPATION, I HOPE A DECISION ON WHETHER TO GO OR NOT WILL NEVERTHELESS BE ON THE BASIS OF WHERE HONG KONG’S OVERALL INTERESTS LIE,* SIR JACK SAID.
WHILE APPRECIATING THAT MEMBERS OF THE ASF AND OC MIGHT HAVE ENTERED INTO FINANCIAL COMMITMENTS, SIR JACK SAIDi *IF THE ASF AND OC DECIDE NOT TO GO, AND THESE EXPENSES ARE RENDERED NUGATORY, IT WILL BE BECAUSE HONG KONG’S OVERALL INTERESTS HAVE BEEN PLACED ABOVE ATHLETIC AND SPORTING INTERESTS. *IN THIS CASE THE GOVERNMENT WOULD BE READY TO CONSIDER REASONABLE REQUESTS FOR REIMBURSEMENT.*
SIR JACK SAID THAT IF INTERNATIONAL GAMES NOT AT MOSCOW WERE ARRANGED AND ASF AND OC DECIDED TO PARTICIPATE IN THEM, THEN THE GOVERNMENT WOULD BE PREPARED TO CONSIDER PROVIDING SUPPORT IN THE NORMAL WAY IF IT WAS ASKED TO DO SO.
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72
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
2
APPOINTMENT OF URBAN COUNCILLORS ******
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (WEDNESDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT THE GOVERNOR HAD RE-APPOINTED FOUR SERVING MEMBERS AND APPOINTED TWO NEW MEMBERS TO THE URBAN COUNCIL FOR A PERIOD OF FOUR YEARS FROM APRIL 1, 1980.
THE RE-APPOINTMENTS ARE MR KIM Y.S. CHAM, MR LAWRENCE H.L. FUNG, MRS GARCE HO AND THE HON F.K. HU.
THE TWO NEW MEMBERS ARE MRS SELINA CHOW AND DR PHILIP C.K. KWOK.
MRS SELINA CHOW IS MARRIED WITH TWO CHILDREN. SHE IS A FILM PRODUCER AND WAS FORMERLY GENERAL MANAGER OF CTV AND PROGRAMME MANAGER FOR TVB. SHE IS CURRENTLY A MEMBER OF THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE AND ALSO SERVES ON THE PANEL OF LAY ASSESSORS.
DR PHILIP C.K. KWOK IS MARRIED WITH FOUR CHILDREN. HE HOLDS VARIOUS DIRECTORSHIPS IN THE WING ON GROUP OF COMPANIES. HE IS DIRECTOR AND GENERAL MANAGER OF THE WING ON LIFE (HOLDINGS) LTD AND DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE WING ON COMPANY LTD. HE IS CURRENTLY A MEMBER OF THE STATISTICS ADVISORY BOARD, THE TELEVISION ADVISORY BOARD AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND ALSO SERVES ON THE PANEL OF LAY ASSESSORS.
TWO CURRENT MEMBERS, MR PETER P.F. CHAN AND MR J. MACKENZIE, WHO HAVE SERVED ON THE COUNCIL FOR 12 YEARS AND NINE YEARS RESPECTIVELY, WILL BE RETIRING FROM MEMBEftSsHP OSk MAftCM 31, 1980.
- - o
PROVISIONAL TRADE FIGURES FOR FEBRUARY *****
THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S EXPORTS FOR FEBRUARY WAS *5 919 MILLION, MADE UP OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AT $4 131 MILLION AND RE-EXPORTS AT $1 788 MILLION ACCORDING TO THE PROVISIONAL FIGURES FOR EXTERNAL MERCHANDISE TRADE PUBLISHED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY.
WITH IMPORTS AT $7 124 MILLION, THE VISIBLE TRADE DEFICIT FOR FEBRUARY WAS $1 205 MILLION.
COMPARED WITH THE SAME MONTH IN 1979, THE FOLLOWING INCREASES BY VALUE WERE RECORDED* $1 697 MILLION OR 70 PER CENT IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS- $485 MILLION OR 37 PER CENT IN RE-EXPORTS- $2 182 MILLION OR 58 PER CENT IN TOTAL EXPORTS AND $1 522 MILLION OR 27 PER CENT IN IMPORTS.
COMMENTING ON THESE FIGURES, A SPOKESMAN FROM THE ECONOMIC SERVICES BRANCH OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT AGAIN STRESSED THE IMPORTANCE OF NOT READING TOO MUCH INTO ONE MONTH'S STATISTICS.
/+JUST AS ...
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
3
♦JUST AS IMPORTS IN JANUARY HAD RISEN DRAMATICALLY AS A RESULT OF THE LUNAR NEW YEAR, SO IN FEBRUARY IT WAS EXPORTS THAT HAD BEEN AFFECTED,+ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
♦ THE LARGE INCREASE OF 70 PER CENT RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS COMPARED WITH FEBRUARY 1979 WAS TO SOME EXTENT A RESULT OF SEASONAL FACTORS,* HE ADDED.
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT EVERY YEAR THERE WAS A SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE IN EXPORTS BEFORE THE LUNAR NEW YEAR FOLLOWED BY A LULL AFTER THE HOLIDAY.
♦ AS IN 1979, THE LUNAR NEW YEAR FELL AT THE END OF JANUARY AND IN 1980 IN THE MIDDLE OF FEBRUARY, A FAIRLY DRAMATIC GROWTH IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS IN FEBRUARY 1980 COMPARED WITH FEBRUARY 1979 WAS TO BE EXPECTED,♦ HE SAID.
PUTTING THE MONTH’S STATISTICS INTO CONTEXT, THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS FOR THE FIRST TWO MONTHS OF THIS YEAR WAS 45 PER CENT HIGHER THAN FOR THE FIRST TWO MONTHS OF 1979. THE VALUE OF IMPORTS WAS 38 PER CENT HIGHER.
COMPARING STATISTICS OVER A LONGER PERIOD — THE 12 MONTHS ENDING FEBRUARY THIS YEAR WITH THE 12 MONTHS ENDING FEBRUARY 1979 — THE INCREASES BY VALUE WERE 39 PER CENT FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS, 50 PER CENT FOR RE-EXPORTS, 42 PER CENT FOR TOTAL EXPORTS AND 37 PER CENT FOR IMPORTS.
♦ THUS THE LATEST TRADE FIGURES CONFIRM THAT TOTAL EXPORTS ARE STILL GROWING FASTER THAN IMPORTS,* THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
♦ THE VISIBLE TRADE GAP, THAT IS THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE VALUE OF IMPORTS IS NOT COVERED BY THE VALUE OF EXPORTS, WAS 15 PER CENT FOR THE FIRST TWO MONTHS OF THIS YEAR COMPARED WITH 19 PER CENT FOR THE FIRST TWO MONTHS OF 1979,+ HE ADDED.
FOLLOWING ARE COMPARATIVE TRADE FIGURES!
LATEST THREE MONTHS DECEMBER 1979 TO FEBRUARY 1980 DECEMBER 1978 TO FEBRUARY 1979 INCREASE OR DECREASE
S MN. $ MN. $ MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 14 717 10 600 + 4 118 ♦ 38.8
RE-EXPORTS 5 724 3 865 * 1 859 + 48.1
TOTAL EXPORTS 20 442 14 465 + 5 977 ♦ 41.3
IMPORTS 23 569 17 889 ♦ 5 681 + 31.8
TRADE BALANCE - 3 127 - 3 424 ♦ 297
/SAME MONTH .....
4
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
SAME MONTH LAST YEAR FEBRUARY 1980 FEBRUARY 1979 INCREASE OR DECREASE
$ MN. S MN. S MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 4 131 2 434 + 1 697 ♦ 69.7
(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (69.8%) (65.1%)
RE-EXPORTS 1 788 1 303 + 485 + 37.2
TOTAL EXPORTS 5 919 3 737 ♦ 2 182 ♦ 58.4
IMPORTS 7 124 5 602 + 1 522 + 27.2
TRADE BALANCE - 1 205 - 1 865 ♦ 660
FEBRUARY JANUARY INCREASE OR
LAST MONTH 1980 1980 DECREASE
S MN. $ MN. S MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 4 131 4 997 - 866 - 17.3
(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (69.8%) (70.9%)
RE-EXPORTS 1 788 2 047 - 259 - 12.7
TOTAL EXPORTS 5 919 7 044 - 1 125 - 16.0
IMPORTS 7 124 8 132 - 1 009 - 12.4
TRADE BALANCE - 1 205 - 1 088 117
JAN.-FEB. JAN.-FEB. INCREASE OR
CALENDAR YEAR TO-DATE 1980 1979 DECREASE
S MN. $ MN. $ MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 9 128 6 286 + 2 842 ♦ 45.2
(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (70.4%) (70.4%)
RE-EXPORTS 3 835 2 639 + 1 196 + 45.3
TOTAL EXPORTS 12 963 8 925 + 4 038 + 45.2
IMPORTS 15 256 11 048 + 4 208 + 38.1
TRADE BALANCE - 2 293 - 2 123 170
MARCH 1979 MARCH 1978
TO TO INCREASE OR
LAST 12 MONTHS FEB. 1980 FEB. 1979 DECREASE
S MN. $ MN. S MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 58 754 42 151 +16 603 +39.4
RE-EXPORTS 21 218 14 176 + 7 042 + 49.7
TOTAL EXPORTS 79 972 56 328 +23 645 +42.0
IMPORTS 90 045 65 906 +24 139 ♦ 36.6
TRADE BALANCE -10 073 - 9 578 - 495
0
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
5
CONSUMER PRICE INDICES FOR FEBRUARY
*****
THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) AND THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (B) FOR FEBRUARY 1980 WERE 158 AND 157 RESPECTIVELY. COMPARED WITH THE PREVIOUS MONTH, CPI (A) INCREASED BY EIGHT POINTS AND CPI (B) BY SEVEN POINTS.
THE CPI (A) IS BASED ON WEIGHTS DERIVED FROM HOUSEHOLDS SPENDING BETWEEN 1400 AND SI 499 A MONTH AND THE CPI (B) FROM THOSE SPENDING SI 500 AND S2 999 A MONTH, AS DETERMINED AT THE HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE SURVEY IN 1973/74.
THE CHANGES FOR FEBRUARY 1980 IN RESPECT OF THE COMPONENTS OF THE TWO INDICES, COMPARED WITH THE PREVIOUS MONTH AND WITH THE CORRESPONDING MONTH IN 1979, ARE AS FOLLOWSi
C.P.I.(A) C.P.I.(B)
COMPONENT FEB 80 JAN 80 FEB 79 FEB 80 JAN 80 FEB 79
FOODSTUFFS 152 142 125 154 145 127
HOUS 1 NG 148 148 137 148 148 136
FUEL AND LIGHT 259 239 141 244 226 140
ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO 181 168 155 174 163 150
CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR 118 117 106 116 115 105
DURABLE GOODS 131 131 121 128 127 118
MISCELLANEOUS GOODS 165 164 139 164 162 137
TRANSPORT AND VEHICLES 191 167 145 191 173 151
SERVICES 165 158 142 168 162 144
ALL ITEMS 158 150 131 157 150 131
THE INDEX FOR FOODSTUFFS INCREASED BY 10 POINTS IN CPI (A)
AND BY NINE POINTS IN CPI (B). PARTICULARLY SIGNIFICANT WERE THE INCREASES IN THE AVERAGE RETAIL PRICES OF FRESH VEGETABLES, FRESH-WATER FISH, LIVE POULTRY, PORK, SALT-WATER FISH AND FRESH FRUITS. THE COST OF MEALS BOUGHT IN RESTAURANTS ALSO WENT UP. MOVEMENTS IN THE RETAIL PRICES OF OTHER FOOD ITEMS WERE INSIGNIFICANT.
THE INDEX FOR FUEL AND LIGHT INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY BY 20 POINTS IN CPI (A) AND BY 18 POINTS IN CPI (B), REFLECTING THE IMPACT OF THE INCREASES IN PRICES OF KEROSENE AND LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS SINCE JANUARY AS WELL AS HIGHER CHARGES FOR ELECTRICITY.
/Higher prices .....
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
€>
HIGHER PRICES FOR CIGARETTES AND TOBACCO INCREASED THE INDEX FOR ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO BY 13 POINTS IN CPI (A) AND BY 11 POINTS IN CPI (B).
THE ONE POINT INCREASE IN THE INDEX FOR CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR IN BOTH CPI (A) AND CPI (B) WAS ATTRIBUTABLE TO HIGHER PRICES FOR RUBBER FOOTWEAR AND MEN’S UNDER-CLOTHING.
THE INDEX FOR DURABLE GOODS INCREASED BY ONE POINT IN CPI (B) AS A RESULT OF HIGHER PRICES FOR ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES AND OPTICAL GOODS.
FOLLOWING HIGHER PRICES FOR FRESH FLOWERS, FOR FILMS AND PHOTO PROCESSING, THE INDEX FOR MISCELLANEOUS GOODS INCREASED BY ONE POINT IN CPI (A) AND BY TWO POINTS IN CPI (B).
THE INDEX FOR TRANSPORT AND VEHICLES INCREASED BY 24 POINTS IN CPI (A) AND BY 18 POINTS IN CPI (B) BECAUSE OF HIGHER FARES FOR BUSES AND FOR PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES DURING THE LUNAR NEW YEAR.
THE INDEX FOR SERVICES INCREASED BY SEVEN POINTS IN CPI (A) AND BY SIX POINTS IN CPI (B) AS A RESULT OF HIGHER CHARGES FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT AND CINEMA ENTERTAINMENT, AND TRADITIONAL INCREASE IN CHARGES FOR HAIRDRESSING BEFORE THE LUNAR NEW YEAR.
PRICE MOVEMENTS IN OTHER COMMODITY SECTIONS WERE INSIGNIFICANT.
COMMENTING ON THESE FIGURES, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE SIZE OF THE INCREASE WAS PARTLY BECAUSE THE LUNAR NEW YEAR OCCURRED IN THE MIDDLE OF FEBRUARY AND SO AFFECTED THE PRICES RECORDED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
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UNIFIED CONTROL OF LAND MATTERS SUGGESTED ***** product?ohAand^allocat?on. P°^IGY* PLAN"ING> “VEL0^"T, ■ +THIS IS ALL THE MORE NECESSARY, IF LAND SALES ARE TO REMAIN A KEY FACTOR IN OUR BUDGETARY POLICY,* SAID THE HON rniwr?!<“W0 AT THE RESUMED BUDGET DEBATE IN IhE LEGISLATIVE CUUNCIL•
MR LI SAID THAT UNDER THE EXISTING SYSTEM THERE WAS AN ^ESSIVELY L0NG LEAD T,ME BEFORE UNFORMED LAND COULD BE PREPARED FOR THE MARKET. +THIS IS DUE TO FRAGMENTATION OF AUTHORITY, RESULTING IN NUMEROUS DISCUSSIONS AND LENGTHY “E* I rR^SEDS*°HEESAfDAM°NG ™E DEPARTME^SWHENEVER
/MR LI
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
7
MR LI CONTINUEDi +LAND AND ITS PROPER UTILISATION IS AT PRESENT SUBJECT TO A MULTIPLICITY OF CONTROL WITHIN THE ADMINISTRATION. THIS MUST INEVITABLY HAVE AN EFFECT ON THE RATE AT WHICH LAND CAN BE PRODUCED, AND THUS ON ITS AVAILABILITY FOR THE MANY ESSENTIAL PURPOSES FOR WHICH THERE IS SUCH A HEAVY AND COMPETING DEMAND.
♦WITH THE EXISTING GOVERNMENT MACHINERY THERE CAN BE ONLY MINOR IMPROVEMENTS IN THE SPEED OF LAND PRODUCTION.
♦I WOULD THEREFORE URGE GOVERNMENT TO CONSIDER THE EARLY INTRODUCTION OF A SYSTEM OF UNIFIED CONTROL, WHICH COULD EITHER BE IN THE FORM OF A SEPARATE BRANCH OR DEPARTMENT,* MR LI SAID.
HE ALSO NOTED THAT ALTHOUGH THE INFLATION NOW SUFFERED BY HONG KONG WAS TO A SIGNIFICANT EXTENT IMPORTED, IT IS CLEAR FROM THE NEED TO IMPOSE EXTENSIVE RENT CONTROL THAT THE IMBALANCE BETWEEN THE DEMAND FOR AND SUPPLY OF PROPERTY AND LAND HAS BEEN A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO THE DOUBLE-DIGIT INFLATION SUSTAINED BY HONG KONG IN 1978 AND 1979.
*IT IS EQUALLY OBVIOUS THAT ANY INCREASES IN CONSUMER PRICES OF THIS ORDER WILL MORE SEVERELY AFFECT THE MIDDLE-INCOME GROUPS, MANY OF WHOM ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR PUBLIC HOUSING ACCOMMODATION. WITH THE PRESENT STATE OF THE PROPERTY MARKET, FEW ARE FINANCIALLY ABLE TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN HOMES UNLESS THEY ARE FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO HAVE BEEN SELECTED FOR PARTICIPATION IN THE HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME,* HE SAID.
REFERRING TO THE AMOUNT OF LAND WHICH WILL BECOME AVAILABLE IN 1980-81 AND IN THE FOLLOWING THREE YEARS FORECAST PERIOD, MR LI SAIDt *THESE FIGURES ARE UP-TO-DATE FORECASTS, BUT WILL THE LAND MADE AVAILABLE BE ABLE TO MEET WITH LEGITIMATE DEMAND IN BOTH THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS?
+IF NOT, ARE WE LIKELY TO SEE A CONTINUING ESCALATION IN THE PRICE OF LAND AND ALL THAT IT PORTENDS FOR THIS COMMUNITY,* MR LI ASKED.
ON THE FOUR CONCESSIONS IN PERSONAL TAXATION, MR LI SAID THEY WERE +TIMELY AND APPRECIATED BY MANY BREADWINNERS*.
MR LI POINTED OUT THAT THE INCREASES IN PERSONAL ALLOWANCES, CHILD ALLOWANCES AND DEPENDENT PARENT ALLOWANCES WERE NOT UNGENEROUS IN MONEY TERMS, BUT THEY WOULD BARELY MATCH THE EROSION IN PURCHASING POWER IN REAL TERMS.
♦HOWEVER, TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION THAT THE COST OF THESE TAX CONCESSIONS TO THE REVENUE IS ALREADY SUBSTANTIAL, WE AGREE TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSAL THOUGH NOT WITHOUT SOME RELUCTANCE,* ffi LI SAID.
+WE WOULD ACCORDINGLY REQUEST THAT THE ALLOWANCES AND ASSESSMENT PROVISIONS SHOULD BE REVISED PERIODICALLY IN THE LIGHT OF REVENUE RETURNS,* HE ADDED.
/3
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
8
LAND ADMINISTRATION NEEDS RESTRUCTURING * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT WAS URGED TO MAKE A DEFINITIVE STATEMENT OVER ITS LAND ADMINISTRATION POLICY.
THE CALL CAME FROM THE HON LYDIA DUNN WHO SAID THAT THE PRESENT ARRANGEMENTS FOR LAND ADMINISTRATION +SEEM RIDICULOUS AND INVOLVE A GREAT DEAL OF DUPLICATION OF EFFORT AND UNNECESSARY WASTE OF TIME AND MANPOWER+.
REFERRING TO A STATEMENT BY THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IN RESPONSE TO HER CALL FOR A SINGLE LANDS DEPARTMENT LAST APRIL, SHE SAID THE OUTCOME OF THIS REVIEW HAD YET TO BE DISCLOSED.
WHILE AGREEING THAT THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S FORECAST OF LAND PRODUCTION AND SALES OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS WAS A DISTINCT IMPROVEMENT, MISS DUNN ATTRIBUTED THE FAILURE TO PRODUCE AND SELL MORE LAND IN THE PAST TO THE UNNECESSARILY COMPLICATED ARRANGEMENTS FOR LAND ADMINISTRATION BETWEEN THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION. THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, THE ENVIRONMENT BRANCH OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT AND THE REGISTRAR GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT.
AT VARIOUS TIMES AND STAGES, SHE CONTINUED, THE INVOLVEMENT OF A BEWILDERING MULTIPLICITY OF DEPARTMENTS, OFFICES, BRANCHES, COMMITTEES AND SUB-COMMITTEES IS REQUIRED.
♦ONE CONSEQUENCE OF THIS SPLITTING UP OF RESPONSIBILITIES IS THAT THERE IS NO CENTRAL RECORD KEEP ING,+ MISS DUNN POINTED OUT.
♦FURTHERMORE, THERE ARE NO UNIFORM CONCEPTS. TIME AND AGAIN, FOR EXAMPLE, ONE DEPARTMENT OR OFFICE OR BRANCH OR COMMITTEE OR SUB-COMMITTEE REFERS TO GROSS AREAS WHILE ANOTHER TO NET.
♦THERE IS NOT EVEN, I SUSPECT, AN AGREED DEFINITION OF WHAT IS MEANT BY ’LAND PRODUCTION’ AND THE LAND SALES PROGRAMME SEEMS TO CHANGE DAILY, BUT I SHALL NOT EMBARRASS ANYONE BY ASKING WHY WE ONLY SOLD 95 ACRES OF LAND IN 1979-80 INSTEAD OF THE ESTIMATED 134 ACRES.+
ON THE SUBJECT OF TRANSPORT, MISS DUNN SAIDi +PRIVATE CARS ARE INEFFICIENT ROAD USERS, AND IT MAY BE THEIR UNNECESSARY USAGE SHOULD BE DISCOURAGED, BUT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD DO WELL TO ACCEPT THAT THE NUMBERS OF PRIVATE CARS WILL INCREASE.
♦SO, INSTEAD OF DEVISING WAYS AND MEANS TO FRUSTRATE THIS NATURAL ASPIRATION, IT IS UP TO THE GOVERNMENT TO IMPROVE THE NETWORK OF ROADS TO CATER TO THIS FACT OF LIFE.+
AS REGARDS PUBLIC TRANSPORT, SHE STATEDi +IF THE GROWTH IN THE NUMBER OF PRIVATE CARS ON THE ROADS IS A MATTER OF CONCERN, THE GOVERNMENT IS LARGELY TO BLAME BECAUSE CAR USAGE, AND EVEN CAR OWNERSHIP, REFLECTS THE INADEQUACY OF OUR PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES AND I AM REFERRING PARTICULARLY TO THE BUS SERVICES.
/+THIBE IS .....
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
9
♦THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR THE SERVICES OF THE TWO PUBLIC BUS COMPANIES TO DETERIORATE TO THE EXTENT THAT THEY HAVE" AND I CANNOT ACCEPT THE OFT-QUOTED REASON THAT THE BUSES ARE PREVENTED FROM OFFERING AN EFFICIENT SERVICE BECAUSE THE ROADS ARE CLOGGED UP BY PRIVATE CARS AND TAXIS.
♦PRIVATE CARS AND TAXIS MAY BE THE CAUSE OF ROAD CONGESTION AT TIMES, BUT PEOPLE HAVE TO MOVE ABOUT FOR MANY REASONS, INCLUDING GETTING TO WORK- AND MEANWHILE, BUSES LIE IDLE BECAUSE OF A SHORTAGE OF DRIVERS AND WHOLLY INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE ARRANGEMENTS.+
NOTING THAT THE PUBLIC ARE TOLD TO PAY MORE IF THE BUS COMPANIES ARE TO MEET THEIR OBLIGATIONS UNDER THEIR FRANCHISES, MISS DUNN ASKEDt +WHAT ASSURANCE IS THERE THAT THE BUS COMPANIES WILL IMPROVE THEIR SERVICES AFTER THE RECENT FARE INCREASES7+
ON THE BUDGET ITSELF, MISS DUNN CHALLENGED THE STATEMENT THAT THE EMPHASIS OF BUDGETARY POLICY IN 1980-81 WAS TO HOLD THE PUBLIC SECTOR’S SHARE OF RESOURCES AT ITS 1979-80 LEVEL.
♦BUT THIS IS PRECISELY WHAT THE 1980-81 BUDGET DOES NOT DO, FOR THE RELATIVE SHARE OF THE PUBLIC SECTOR WILL INCREASE FURTHER 1 FROM NEARLY 19 PER CENT IN 1979-80 TO NEARLY 20 PER CENT IN 1980-81 AND THE PUBLIC SECTOR’S SHARE OF THE OUTPUT OF THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WILL INCREASE AGAIN TO 49 PER CENT (ITS 1978 SHARE).♦
MISS DUNN FOUND IT DIFFICULT TO BELIEVE THAT THE RATE OF INCREASE IN CONSUMER PRICES WOULD ACTUALLY SLOW DOWN FROM 11.6 PER CENT IN 1979 TO 10 PER CENT IN 1980 AND THAT THE RATE OF INCREASE IN PRICES GENERALLY FROM 13.3 PER CENT TO 11 PER CENT IN THE SAME PERIOD.
SHE SAID SHE COULD NOT UNDERSTAND WHY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY WAS ALLOWING THE GROWTH RATE OF EXPENDITURE ON BOTH CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNT AND GENERAL REVENUE ACCOUNT TO ACCELERATE IN 1980-81 - BOTH OF THESE RATES OF GROWTH ARE WELL IN EXCESS OF HIS FORECAST GROWTH RATE OF THE ECONOMY.
♦IN SHORT, IT SEEMS TO ME THAT THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S BUDGETARY STRATEGY FOR 1980-81 IS PUTTING AT RISK HIS ACHIEVEMENTS IN 1979-80, INASMUCH AS THE EFFECT MUST SURELY BE INFLATIONARY, PARTICULARLY IN THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, WHICH IS ALREADY OPERATING TO THE LIMIT OF ITS CAPACITY AS EVIDENCED BY THE CONTINUING RAPID INCREASES IN COSTS.
♦IN OTHER WORDS, MY CONCLUSION IS THAT THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS BUDGET ARE NOT, AS THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY CLAIMED IN HIS SPEECH, ’JUST ABOUT TOLERABLE’ FOR EITHER THE FUTURE GROWTH AND BALANCE OF OUR ECONOMY OR FOR OUR PUBLIC Fl NANCES,♦ SHE ADDED.
SHE ASKED THE GOVERNMENT TO MONITOR THE COURSE OF THE ECONOMY CLOSELY OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS AND BE READY TO TAKE REMEDIAL ACTION, IF NECESSARY.
THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES, FACED WITH THE PROSPECT OF GROWING PROTECTIONISM, WILL ALSO NEED TO BE MORE FLEXIBLE AND COST EFFICIENT THAN EVER BEFORE, SHE WARNED.
- 0 - -
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
10
GOVERNMENT URGED TO REVIEW PERSONAL TAXATION ANNUALLY X * * X X *
UNOFFICIAL LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR THE HON LEUNG TAT-SHING TODAY (WEDNESDAY) URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO REVIEW THE LEVEL OF PERSONAL TAXATION ON AN ANNUAL BASIS.
WHILE COMPLIMENTING THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY FOR HIS +TIMELY MOVE + TO ALLEVIATE THE BURDEN OF THE LOWER TAXABLE INCOME GROUP, HE POINTED OUT THAT THE LEVELS OF THE PROPOSED TAXATION IN RESPECT OF PERSONAL, CHILD AND DEPENDENT PARENT ALLOWANCES ARE RATHER ON THE LOW SIDE.
♦THEY MAY BE BARELY ACCEPTABLE AT THE PRESENT TIME, BUT I DOUBT THEY WILL REMAIN SO FOR LONG DUE TO THE CONTINUED RAVAGES OF INFLATION.
♦ I SUGGEST THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD REVIEW THE SITUATION AT FREQUENT INTERVALS, SAY ANNUALLY, IN ORDER TO RETAIN A PROPER PERSPECTIVE, BASED ON THE PREVAILING NEEDS OF OUR COMMUNITY.+
ON THE DEPENDENT PARENT ALLOWANCE SCHEME, HE SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD LOWER THE AGE CRITERION FROM 60 TO 55, WHICH IS THE NORMAL RETIREMENT AGE IN HONG KONG.
♦ DUE TO THE AGE LIMIT OF 60 OR ABOVE, THE SCHEME HAS FAILED TO REACH MANY WHO WOULD AND SHOULD HAVE BENEFITED FROM ITS CONCESSION.
♦ FOR MANY VALID REASONS, A TAX-PAYER MAY HAVE TO SUPPORT HIS PARENTS WHO HAVE NOT YET REACHED THE AGE OF 60 YEARS,+ MR LEUNG SAID.
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NEW AIRPORT ECONOMICALLY JUSTIFIABLE ******
A REPLACEMENT AIRPORT SHOULD BE BUILT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, SAID DR THE HON HENRY HU.
HE TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THIS AFTERNOON THAT APART FROM BEING JUSTIFIED ON ECONOMIC GROUNDS, A NEW AIRPORT WOULD IMPROVE THE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS IN KOWLOON, RELEASE LARGE AREAS OF LAND AND ENHANCE INVESTMENT CONFIDENCE IN HONG KONG.
♦ AS FAR AS FINANCIAL RESOURCES ARE CONCERNED, IT APPEARS
THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD HAVE LITTLE PROBLEM IN MEETING ITS COMMITMENT IN IMPORTANT CAPITAL PROJECTS, SUCH AS A NEW AIRPORT, ANOTHER FIXED HARBOUR CROSSING AND MORE PUBLIC HOUSING UNITS,* HE SAID.
DR HU NOTED THAT THE NEED FOR MORE LAND, ROADS AND HOUSING UNITS HAS BEEN AGGRAVATED BY THE INFLUX OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS. UNDER SUCH CIRCUMSTANCES HONG KONG WOULD SOON BE CONFRONTED WITH THE QUESTION OF WHAT WOULD BE ITS ECONOMICALLY MANAGEABLE POPULATION.
♦THE ANSWER IN TURN DEPENDS ON HOW MUCH LAND CAN BE MADE AVAILABLE FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1950
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+ IF THE INTENSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF LANTAU MATERIALISES, INCLUDING THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK AND THE LANTAU FIXED CROSSING, THEN OUR ECONOMICALLY MANAGEABLE POPULATION WOULD PROBABLY BE BETWEEN SIX TO EIGHT MILLION.
+ IT IS THEREFORE IMPORTANT THAT AN EARLY DECISION BE MADE TO FULLY DEVELOP LANTAU SO AS TO PROVIDE SUFFICIENT INFRASTRUCTURE, THE MOST IMPORTANT ONE OF WHICH IS LAND, TO COPE WITH OUR LIKELY POPULATION GROWTH,* HE SAID.
DR HU REITERATED THE GROWING IMPORTANCE OF THE TERTIARY INDUSTRY AND RE-EXPORT SECTOR TO HONG KONG’S ECONOMY.
THESE TWO SECTORS ARE NEEDED *T0 STRENGTHEN OUR ECONOMIC BASE AND TO GIVE US A BETTER BALANCE AGAINST GLOBAL ECONOMIC FLUCTUATIONS,* HE EXPLAINED.
EMPLOYMENT IN THE TERTIARY INDUSTRY DURING THE THREE YEAR PERIOD FROM 1977 TO 1979 HAD INCREASED BY 24.5 PER CENT. THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS HAD MORE THAN DOUBLED DURING THE SAME PERIOD.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THESE TRENDS MAY INCREASE EVEN MORE RAPIDLY IN THE 1980S AND CALLED FOR A MORE DETAILED STUDY TO FURTHER EXPAND THESE SECTORS.
ON THE PATTERN OF PUBLIC EXPENDITURE, HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT MACHINERY HAD BECOME SO LARGE THAT IT RISKED BECOMING *A MACHINE WITHOUT A SOUL*.
+IT IS IMPORTANT TO IMPROVE THE SUPERVISION OF PUBLIC SPENDING, TO ENSURE THAT PUBLIC MONEY IS SPENT ACCORDING TO ESTABLISHED POLICIES AND TO MAKE NECESSARY ADJUSTMENTS AT THE RIGHT TIME BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.*
BUT HE CRITICISED THE GOVERNMENT FOR NOT SPENDING ENOUGH ON THE +LESS FORTUNATE MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY* - CHILDREN WHO ARE NOT PROPERLY LOOKED AFTER BY THEIR PARENTS, THE STREET SLEEPERS, THE AGED AND, IN PARTICULAR, THE BOAT DWELLERS.
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NEW ARRANGEMENTS TO CREATE POSTS IN CIVIL SERVICE EFFECTIVE NEXT MONTH *****
THE PRESENT PROCEDURE TO CREATE NEW POSTS IN THE CIVIL SERVICE WILL BE CHANGED WITH EFFECT FROM NEXT MONTH, THE HON T.S. LO REVEALED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
UNDER THE NEW SYSTEM, AUTHORITY WILL BE DELEGATED TO THE HEAD OF A DEPARTMENT TO REALLOCATE EXISTING FUNCTIONS AND TO CREATE NEW POSTS, OTHER THAN THE DIRECTORATE LEVEL, WITHIN A PREDETERMINED FINANCIAL CEILING WITHOUT THE PRIOR APPROVAL OF THE FINANCE BRANCH, ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE OR THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.
SPEAKING AS CHAIRMAN OF THE ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE, MR LO SAID: +GOING HAND IN HAND WITH THIS WILL BE THAT EACH DEPARTMENT F£AD WILL HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY TO STREAMLINE THE STAFF STRUCTURE CF HIS DEPARTMENT SO AS TO ACHIEVE OPTIMUM EFFICIENCY.*
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 19&0
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HE NOTED THE NEW SYSTEM WOULD HAVE THE FOLLOWING ADVANTAGES!
* DEPARTMENT HEADS WILL HAVE GREATER RESPONSIBILITY AND FREEDOM TO SHAPE THEIR OWN DEPARTMENTS.
* NEW POSTS CAN BE CREATED WITHIN A DEPARTMENT WITH MUCH LESS DELAY THAN HITHERTO POSSIBLE.
* IT WILL STIMULATE EACH DEPARTMENT TO EXAMINE ALL FUNCTIONS AT PRESENT UNDERTAKEN BY IT AND TO DECIDE WHETHER THEY ARE ALL NECESSARY, AND ARE GETTING THE RIGHT PRIORITY.
* ARISING FROM THE EXAMINATION, A DEPARTMENT CAN DECIDE WHAT REDEPLOYMENTS MIGHT SENSIBLY BE MADE.
* TO FREE THE FINANCE BRANCH TO A LARGE EXTENT TO CONDUCT REVIEWS IN DEPTH OF THE OVERALL POSITION OF EACH DEPARTMENT. THEY MAY BE STRENGTHENED BY INVOLVING THE STAFF OF THE CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH OR ORGANISATION AND METHOD SECTION AS WELL AS PROFESSIONAL ADVISERS, AND
* TO FREE THE ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE TO A LARGE EXTENT TO CONDUCT MEANINGFUL REVIEWS IN DEPTH OF THE STAFF NEEDS OF EACH DEPARTMENT, HOPEFULLY, ONCE IN ABOUT EVERY THREE YEARS.
ALTHOUGH SOME TEETHING TROUBLES MAY ARISE FROM THE NEW SYSTEM, NR LO SAID! +l TRUST THAT GIVEN GOODWILL ON THE PART OF EVERYONE CONCERNED IT WILL TURN OUT TO BE A WORKABLE SYSTEM AND A VAST IMPROVEMENT ON THE PRESENT PROCEDURE.*
EARLIER, MR LO EXPLAINED THAT REQUESTS FROM DEPARTMENTS WERE AT PRESENT PUT TO THE FINANCE BRANCH FOR EXAMINATION BEFORE THEY WERE SUBMITTED TO THE ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE FOR FURTHER SCRUTINY AND THEN FINANCE COMMITTEE FOR APPROVAL.
HOWEVER, HE POINTED OUT, THERE ARE WEAKNESSES IN THIS PROCEDURE WHICH HAS CHANGED LITTLE IN THE PAST 20 YEARS.
THEY AREi
M IT TAKES AWAY THE INCENTIVES FOR A DEPARTMENT TO EXAMINE WHETHER A FUNCTION FOUND NECESSARY 10 YEARS AGO IS STILL NEEDED TODAY AND TO FULLY UTILISE THE TIME OF A HOLDER OF A POST. THUS RESULTING IN A NUMBER OF POSTS BECOMING REDUNDANT.
* THE ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE OR THE FINANCE BRANCH, INUNDATED WITH SUBMISSIONS FOR POSTS, FINDS IT INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT TO EXAMINE THE OVERALL MANNING POSITION OF A DEPARTMENT, AND
* GIVEN THE LIMITED MANPOWER RESOURCES OF THE FINANCE BRANCH AND THE VAST NUMBER OF SUBMISSIONS, A BOTTLE NECK IS OBVIOUSLY BUILDING UP AND THE TIME GAP BETWEEN DEPARTMENTAL SUBMISSION AND FINANCE COMMITTEE APPROVAL IS LENGTHENING, THEREBY RESULTING IN INADEQUATE SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
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GOVERNMENT ASKED TO ACT ON REHABILITATION PLAN ******
DR THE HON HARRY FANG TODAY EXPRESSED CONCERN OVER DELAY IN PROVIDING FUNDS TO IMPLEMENT A NUMBER OF SERVICES IDENTIFIED IN THE REHABILITATION PROGRAMME PLAN.
AT THE RESUMED BUDGET DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL HE SAID ONE OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS WAS TO ESTABLISH A NEW SELECTIVE PLACEMENT SERVICE FOR DISABLED JOB SEEKERS IN APRIL THIS YEAR.
♦SEVEN MONTHS AFTER A DRAFT ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE PAPER HAD BEEN AGREED BY THE POLICY BRANCH AND THE DEPARTMENT CONCERNED, WE ARE STILL NO FURTHER FORWARD.*
ANOTHER PROPOSAL TO CREATE ADDITIONAL PHYSIOTHERAPY AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY POSTS APPEARS TO HAVE SUFFERED THE SAME FATE, HE ADDED.
HE WISHED TO KNOW WHEN THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WOULD BE REQUESTED TO APPROVE FUNDS FOR THESE PURPOSES.
HE ALSO CALLED ON THE GOVERNMENT TO TAKE THE LEAD IN EMPLOYING DISABLED GRADUATES FROM THE TWO UNIVERSITIES ♦IF WE ARE TO REAP THE FULL BENEFITS OF THE CONSIDERABLE EFFORTS, TIME AND MONEY THAT WE ARE DEVOTING TO THE REHABILITATION PROGRAMME.+
ON SUBVENTED HOSPITALS. DR FANG SAID THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES HAD PROPOSED TO UPGRADE A NUMBER OF SUCH HOSPITALS TO ACUTE GENERAL HOSPITAL STATUS.
IF THIS AIM - TO SHARE THE LOAD OF THE OVERSTRETCHED GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS - IS TO BE ACHIEVED, HE SAID, ADEQUATE FUNDS MUST BE MADE AVAILABLE TO ENABLE THEM TO IMPROVE THEIR STAFF STANDARDS AND FACILITIES.
DR FANG THEN CALLED FOR EXPANSION OF SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY, POINTING OUT THAT AT LEAST 1 000 HOSPITAL BEDS ARE OCCUPIED BY +CHRONICALLY OLD PATIENTS+.
HE EXPLAINED THAT THESE PATIENTS ARE ELDERLY PEOPLE WHO ARE SENILE MENTALLY AND/OR PHYSICALLY AND CAN BE QUITE ADEQUATELY LOOKED AFTER IN CARE AND ATTENTION HOMES WITH SOME NURSING SUPERVISION.
♦SURELY IT IS BOTH SOCIALLY AND ECONOMICALLY SOUND TO BUILD MORE CARE AND ATTENTION HOMES FOR THESE ELDERLY PATIENTS, THUS RELEASING OUR MUCH NEEDED HOSPITAL BEDS FOR THOSE WHO REQUIRE NEDICAL OR SURGICAL TREATMENT.+
HE SUGGESTED THAT THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT, RATHER THAN THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE RUNNING OF THESE HOMES, EITHER AS A DIRECT SERVICE OR AS A SUBVENTED SERVICE.
/HE UPGED .....
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
HE URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO GIVE SERIOUS CONSIDERATION TO THIS PROPOSAL AND MAKE A DETERMINED EFFORT TO PROVIDE THE NECESSARY FUNDS TO EXPAND SUCH FACILITIES.
TURNING TO THE SOCIAL WELFARE CLASS REVIEW, DR FANG PAID TRIBUTE TO THE SOCIAL WORKERS IN THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR FOR THEIR ^SENSIBLE AND WELL-DISCIPLINED* ATTITUDE IN THIS MATTER.
HE SAID i +1 SHOULD LIKE AN ASSURANCE FROM THE GOVERNMENT THAT IT IS ITS INTENTION TO TREAT VOLUNTARY AGENCY STAFF EQUALLY AND EQUITABLY WITH THEIR GOVERNMENT COUNTERPARTS- AND THAT ANY SALARY ADJUSTMENTS THAT MAY ARISE FROM THE PRESENT REVIEW OF THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR WILL APPLY RETROACTIVELY FROM APRIL 1979.+
DR FANG ALSO PROPOSED TO EXTEND THE SCHOOL MEDICAL SERVICE SCHEME TO STUDENTS IN FORM IV TO FORM VII WHO ARE NOT AT PRESENT COVERED BY ANY SPECIFIC HEALTH CARE SCHEME.
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DEPENDENCE ON CAPITAL REVENUE SHOULD BE REDUCED * ******
THE GOVERNMENT MUST REDUCE ITS DEPENDENCE ON LARGE CAPITAL REVENUE BECAUSE IT MAY BE DIFFICULT TO RAISE IN FUTURE, THE HON S.L. CHEN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
AT THE RESUMED BUDGET DEBATE, HE SAID THE ESTIMATED CAPITAL REVENUE FOR 1980/81 WOULD FINANCE AS MUCH AS 90 PER CENT OF THE ESTIMATED CAPITAL EXPENDITURE.
+WE WERE TOLD THAT THE BULK OF THIS STAGGERING SUM IS TO BE REALISED FROM LAND SALES WHICH MEANS THAT ALMOST ALL WILL HAVE TO COME FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR.
♦WILL THE PRIVATE SECTOR HAVE THE ABILITY TO FINANCE SUCH PURCHASES WITHOUT SERIOUSLY AFFECTING ITS ABILITY TO FINANCE INVESTMENTS IN OTHER AREAS SUCH AS CAPITAL PLANT AND MACHINERY FOR THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR?
♦ALSO IN THE LIGHT OF RECENT EVENTS WILL THE PROJECTED LAND SALES BRING IN THE ANTICIPATED REVENUE?
♦WOULD IT THEREFORE BE ADVISABLE TO CONTINUE RELYING HEAVILY ON INCOME FROM LAND SALES TO SUSTAIN A HEAVY CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME IN FUTURE YEARS?* HE ASKED.
MR CHEN ALSO EXPRESSED CONCERN OVER THE GROWING PROPORTION OF CAPITAL EXPENDITURE BOTH IN ABSOLUTE TERMS AS WELL AS A PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL EXPENDITURE.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE PROPOSED PROVISION OF S7 326 MILLION FOR CAPITAL EXPENDITURE FOR 1980/81 REPRESENTED AN INCREASE OF 42 PER CENT OVER THE REVISED ESTIMATE FOR 1979/80 OR ALMOST 80 PER CENT ABOVE THE ORIGINAL ESTIMATE.
ACCORDING TO THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S BUDGET SPEECH, MR CHEN SAID, THE PRIVATE SECTOR’S SHARE OF THE OUTPUT OF THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY IN 1980 IS ALSO ESTIMATED TO INCREASE TO 49 PER CENT ONCE AGAIN.
,/u. l x .•pwcilG’
WEDNESDAY, KARCH 26, 1980
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♦ALTHOUGH THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY HAS REASSURED US, ALBEIT GUARDEDLY, THAT THIS CAN BE ACCEPTED WITHOUT SERIOUSLY RISKING CROWDING OUT THE PRIVATE SECTOR AND/OR DIVERTING LABOUR AWAY FROM MANUFACTURING EMPLOYMENT, I AM NOT ALTOGETHER HAPPY.
♦I FIND IT HARD TO ACCEPT THAT SUCH A LARGE VOLUME OF GOVERNMENT CAPITAL WORKS WILL NOT HAVE A SIGNIFICANT EFFECT ON PRICES OF THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SECTOR AND ULTIMATELY ON GENERAL PRICES IN THE REST OF THE ECONOMY.♦
MR CHEN THEN SUGGESTED TO IMPROVE THE RECURRENT REVENUE STRUCTURE BY INCREASING THE YIELD OF INDIRECT TAXES.
HE SAID THERE WERE MANY AVENUES TO ACHIEVE THIS, ONE OF WHICH IS DUTIABLE COMMODITIES SUCH AS LIQUOR, TOBACCO AND PERFUME.
♦THERE IS NO EVIDENCE TO SUGGEST, AS FAR AS LIQUOR IS CONCERNED, THAT A POINT OF DIMINISHING RETURNS HAS BEEN REACHED AND THIS IS CLEARLY REFLECTED BY THE RAPID INCREASE IN YEARLY CONSUMPTIONS WHICH CONTINUES TO RISE FROM $296 MILLION IN 1975 TO A HEIGHT OF $672 MILLION IN 1979,+ MR CHEN SAID.
HE NOTED THAT IT WOULD BE WISE FOR CONTRIBUTION FROM INDIRECT TAXATION TO BE KEPT AT A MORE REASONABLE LEVEL IN RELATION TO DIRECT TAXATION WHICH IS INCOME SENSITIVE.
FURTHERMORE, AN INCREASE IN INDIRECT TAXATION MAY HELP DISCOURAGE PRIVATE SECTOR CONSUMPTION WHICH IS PERHAPS WHAT HONG KONG NEEDS TO KEEP INFLATION DOWN TO A MORE ACCEPTABLE LEVEL, HE ADDED.
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HELP REQUIRED FOR THREE GROUPS OF PEOPLE ft ft ft ft ft ft
THE HON ROGER LOBO TODAY SPOKE OUT FOR THREE CLASSES OF PEOPLE — THE ELDERLY IN HOSPITALS, THE YOUNG WORKFORCE AND POTENTIAL HOME BUYERS - AND ASKED THE GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE THEM WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP THEMSELVES.
♦THESE ARE THE PEOPLE WHO MERIT ATTENTION,+ HE SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT PUBLIC POLICY MUST BE MONITORED CONSTANTLY TO ENSURE THAT IT IS MEETING THE EXPECTATIONS OF EVERY MEMBER OF THE COMMUNITY, OR IS AT LEAST PROCEEDING AS FAST AS POSSIBLE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.
♦WE ARE REALISTIC AND PATIENT SO WE DO NOT EXPECT TO SOLVE ALL OUR PROBLEMS AT ONCE, BUT WE NEED TO KNOW THAT OUR TARGETS FOR THE BASIC SOCIAL SERVICES OF HEALTH, HOUSING AND EDUCATION ARE ATTAINABLE AND APPROPRI ATE,♦ HE SAID.
AMONG HIS THREE CONCERNS, MR LOBO SAID HOME OWNERSHIP +IS BY FAR THE MOST IMPORTANT OF THE AREAS IN WHICH PUBLIC POLICY MUST MEET THE REASONABLE EXPECTATIONS OF THE COMMUNITY+.
♦WE MUST NOT SLIP ANY FURTHER INTO A SITUATION WHERE THOSE WHO THOUGHT THEY HAD EARNED THE RIGHT TO THE SECURITY OF THEIR OWN HOMES NOW SEE THAT MODEST EXPECTATION RECEDING DAY BY DAY,+ HE WARNED.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
♦THESE ARE THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE DONE MOST FOR HONG KONG AND YET HAVE ASKED FOR THE LEAST IN RETURN.
♦THEY HAVE WORKED AND SAVED FOR THE FUTURE AND NOW, SANDWICHED BETWEEN HIGH PRICES AND HIGH INTEREST RATES, THEIR PROSPECTS OF HOME OWNERSHIP ARE MORE REMOTE THAN EVER.
♦IF OUR POLICIES ON LAND AND HOUSING ARE PENALISING THIS DESERVING AND SIGNIFICANT GROUP, THEN THEY MUST BE RE-EXAMINED AND IF LACK OF IMAGINATION, DILIGENCE AND LAND ARE NOT THE PROBLEM, LET US FIND OUT WHAT IS AND DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT URGENTLY.♦ HE SAID.
MR LOBO UNDERLINED THE NEED FOR CARE TO THE ELDERLY +WH0 WOULD RATHER STAND ON THEIR OWN FEET OR RELY ON THEIR FAMILIES THAN STAYING IN HOSPITALS*.
ACCORDING TO A SURVEY CONDUCTED LAST YEAR, THERE WERE 5 □□□ ELDERLY PATIENTS IN GOVERNMENT AND SUBVENTED HOSPITALS, OF WHOM ABOUT 20 PER CENT REQUIRED ONLY MINIMAL NURSING CARE.
HE NOTED THAT THEIR CONFINEMENT TO HOSPITAL MAY WORK AGAINST FULL RECOVERY AND REHABILITATION.
MORE ACCOMMODATION WHERE OLD PEOPLE CAN LIVE WITH DIGNITY, WITH APPROPRIATE PROFESSIONAL CARE AND CONTACT WITH THEIR RELATIVES SHOULD BE PROVIDED, HE SAID.
THIS SHOULD BE SUPPLEMENTED, HE ADDED, BY THE EXTENSION OF THE VISITING NURSING SYSTEM TO HELP YOUNG PEOPLE AT WORK TO RETAIN RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR PARENTS.
MR LOBO THEN TURNED HIS ATTENTION TO THE EDUCATIONAL LEVEL OF THE WORKFORCE, THE IMPORTANCE OF WHICH WAS EMPHASISED BY THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON DIVERSIFICATION.
STATISTICS SHOW THAT WELL OVER HALF A MILLION PEOPLE WORKING IN THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES IN 1978 HAD NO SECONDARY EDUCATION AT ALL.
♦THEIR BEST CHANCE TO REGAIN LOST GROUND MUST BE THROUGH PART-TIME STUDY IN AN ADULT EDUCATION PROGRAMME WHEN THE PROPOSALS OF THE 1978 WHITE PAPER ON SENIOR SECONDARY AND TERTIARY EDUCATION ARE IMPLEMENTED.
♦I BELIEVE WE SHOULD KNOW WHAT PROGRESS HAS BEEN MADE SINCE THE PUBLICATION OF THE WHITE PAPER, AND THE RESULTS OF CONSULTATIONS WITH VOLUNTARY AGENCIES WORKING IN THIS FIELD.
♦SPECIFICALLY, I MUST POINT OUT THAT, IF THE DEVELOPMENT OF ADULT EDUCATION IS TO INVOLVE VOLUNTARY AGENCIES, CURRENT POLICIES CONCERNING THE ALLOCATION OF PREMISES IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES SHOULD BE REVIEWED.+
MR LOBO ALSO VOICED HIS CONCERN OVER THE EVER INCREASING SQUATTER POPULATION, RESULTING FROM THE INFLUX OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
HE SAID HE UNDERSTOOD THERE ARE NO MORE SITES AVAILABLE FOR TEMPORARY HOUSING AND THE LONG LIST OF APPLICANTS FOR THE EXISTING SITES IS CAUSING CONCERN TO MANY.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
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HK NEEDS PERMANENT TRADE EXHIBITION CENTRE *****
A PERMANENT TRADE EXHIBITION CENTRE IS AT PRESENT +SADLY LACKING* IN HONG KONG, THE HON FRANCIS TIEN TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
TO BACK UP HIS VIEW THAT SUCH A PROJECT IS ECONOMICALLY JUSTIFIABLE, MR TIEN POINTED OUT THAT THE REPORT BY THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON DIVERSIFICATION RECOMMENDED +THAT GOVERNMENT SHOULD LOSE NO TIME IN SEEKING FURTHER ADVICE ON HOW SUCH A FACILITY SHOULD BE CREATED*.
HE SUGGESTED THAT A WORKING PARTY BE SET UP, TO BE FOLLOWED BY THE CREATION OF A PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY TO ENSURE ITS PROGRESSION, SIMILAR TO SUCH STATUTORY CORPORATIONS AS THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION, THE HONG KONG INDUSTRIAL ESTATES CORPORATION AND THE HONG KONG EXAMINATION AUTHORITY.
HE ALSO OUTLINED THE SEQUENCE IN WHICH THE PROJECT COULD BE ACHIEVED. WHILE ACKNOWLEDGING THAT THE PROPOSED PROJECT COULD NOT EE CREATED WITHOUT THE GOVERNMENT’S ASSISTANCE IN RESPECT OF BOTH PLANNING AND RESOURCES, MR TIEN SAIDi +1 DO NOT THINK THAT GOVERNMENT SHOULD BE DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN THE CONSTRUCTION OR MANAGEMENT OF THE PROPOSED CENTRE.
♦I FEEL THAT SUCH AN EXHIBITION CENTRE SHOULD BE CREATED AS A PUBLIC CORPORATION BY STATUTE, SOMEWHAT ALONG THE LINES OF THE MTRC ORDINANCE.
+ IN ADDITION TO SETTING OUT THE OBJECTS AND FUNCTIONS OF THE CORPORATION, AND MAKING SURE THAT THE COMPOSITION OF ITS MANAGEMENT BODY WOULD ENABLE GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATION, WE WOULD NEED TO ENSURE THAT THE CORPORATION IS REQUIRED BY LAW TO MANAGE THE PROJECT ALONG COMMERCIAL LINES.*
AS FOR A SUITABLE SITE, MR TIEN PROPOSED THAT THE GOVERNMENT COULD GRANT LAND BY WAY OF PRIVATE TREATY AT FULL MARKET VALUE IN EXCHANGE FOR THE CORPORATION’S EQUITY, THUS ENABLING THE GOVERNMENT TO BE THE SOLE OWNER OF THE CORPORATION.
BECAUSE THE EQUITY IS EXCHANGED AGAINST THE FULL MARKET VALUE OF THE SITE, MR TIEN CONTINUED, THE QUESTION OF SUBSIDY WOULD NOT ARISE.
HAVING OBTAINED THE LAND, THE CORPORATION COULD THEN NEGOTIATE WITH REAL ESTATE, CONSTRUCTION, BANKING AND OTHER BUSINESS INTERESTS FOR THE BUILDING OF THE CENTRE, HE ADDED.
MR TIEN ENVISAGED THAT THE CORPORATION WOULD MAKE A LOSS INITIALLY BUT HE POINTED OUT THIS WOULD SUBSEQUENTLY BE RECOVERED WHEN IT PICKS UP A GREATER VOLUME OF BUSINESS.
♦TO COVER THIS CONTINGENCY, IT MUST BE OPEN TO GOVERNMENT TO LEND MONIES TO THE CORPORATION AT WHATEVER TERMS THIS COUNCIL MAY DEEM FIT.
/+AS LC..G .........
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
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♦AS LONG AS SUFFICIENT STATUTORY SAFEGUARDS ARE BUILT INTO THE CORPORATION’S STATUTE, AND AS LONG AS THE PEOPLE RUNNING THE CORPORATION DO SO CONSCIOUSLY ALONG BUSINESS LINES, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD BE ABLE TO TAKE A RATHER RELAXED VIEW ABOUT THE CENTRE’S OPERATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE.
♦IN SHORT, THE GOVERNMENT IS BEING ASKED TO DO NO MORE THAN OPEN THE DOOR, TURN THE KEY, OR PRIME THE PUMP, TO LET THIS VENTURE WORK.+
MR TIEN BELIEVED THE ONLY WAY TO PROVE THE RIGHT OR WRONG OF THIS PROJECT WOULD BE TO ALLOW IT TO PROCEED.
QUOTING SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL, MR TIEN PLEDGEDi ♦GIVE US THE TOOLS AND WE WILL FINISH THE JOB.+
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CONTRACT SIGNED FOR SITE FORMATION WORK IN SHA TIN
* * * * * *
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT TODAY (WEDNESDAY) LET A $9.3 MILLION CONTRACT FOR SITE FORMATION WORK WHICH WILL PRODUCE ABOUT EIGHT HECTARES OF LAND FOR PUBLIC HOUSING IN THE SHA TIN NEW TOWN.
THE CONTRACT WAS FORMALLY SIGNED THIS MORNING BY MR K.T. KUO, CHIEF ENGINEER OF THE SHA TIN NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT OFFICE, AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF KIN SHING CONSTRUCTION COMPANY.
A PWD SPOKESMAN SAID THE LAND FORMED WOULD ENABLE ACCOMMODATION TO BE PROVIDED FOR ABOUT 21 000 PEOPLE.
THE AREA IS NEXT TO THE VILLAGE OF SHA TIN TAU, NEAR THE LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD AND THE PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE AT SAN TIN WAI.
HE SAID THAT THE CONTRACT WOULD ALSO INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF STORM DRAINS, SEWERS AND A MAIN DRAINAGE CULVERT.
WORK FOR THE PROJECT WILL TAKE ABOUT 12 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
THE PROJECT HAS BEEN DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTION WILL BE SUPERVISED BY MAUNSELL CONSULTANTS ASIA, CONSULTING ENGINEERS OF PWD’S NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
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POSTER AN EFFECTIVE MEAN TO PUT ACROSS INDUSTRIAL SAFETY MESSAGE *****
AN ATTRACTIVE, INFORMATIVE AND WELL-DESIGNED SAFETY POSTER IS ONE OF THE MOST EFFECTIVE MEANS TO PUT ACROSS THE MESSAGE OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY.
MR JOHN LOO, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF NGO KEE CONSTRUCTION CO. LTD., SAID THIS TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WHILE PRESENTING PRIZES TO WINNERS OF THE 12TH ANNUAL INDUSTRIAL SAFETY POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
THE PRESENTATION TOOK PLACE IN THE DEPARTMENT’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE IN CANTON ROAD.
MR LOO POINTED OUT THAT INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS IN HONG KONG, IN PARTICULAR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, WERE STILL A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM DESPITE ALL THE PUBLICITY AND OTHER EFFORTS CARRIED OUT BY THE GOVERNMENT AND NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATIONS.
THE COMPETITION WAS AIMED NOT ONLY AT AROUSING THE INTEREST OF THE PARTICIPANTS BUT ALSO THE AWARENESS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY AT WORK AMONG THOSE EMPLOYED IN INDUSTRY.
MR LOO SAID SAFETY CONSCIOUSNESS SHOULD BE CULTIVATED IN THE YOUNGER GENERATION, AND HE WAS VERY HAPPY THAT SO MANY STUDENTS HAD SHOWN A KEEN INTEREST IN THE COMPETITION.
♦YOUR PARTICIPATION IN THIS COMPETITION HAS NOT ONLY SHOWN YOUR CREATIVE TALENTS IN ART AND GRAPHIC DESIGN IN PUBLICISING INDUSTRIAL SAFETY, BUT HAS ALSO DEMONSTRATED YOUR CARE AND INTEREST IN ACCIDENT PREVENTION IN INDUSTRY,♦ HE TOLD THE PRIZE-WINNERS.
THE COMPETITION HELD LATE LAST YEAR ATTRACTED MORE THAN 340 ENTRIES FROM 39 SCHOOLS.
THE FIRST PRIZE OF $500. WENT TO LAM KING-FAI OF S.K.H. LAM WOO MEMORIAL SECONDARY SCHOOL. THE SECOND AND THIRD PRIZES OF $400 AND $300 WERE WON BY KWAN KIN-PUI OF KEI HEEP SECONDARY SCHOOL AND CHENG YUK-LUN OF JOCKEY CLUB GOVERNMENT SECONDARY TECHNICAL SCHOOL RESPECTIVELY.
TEN ENTRIES WERE AWARDED CONSOLATION PRIZES OF $100 EACH. IN ADDITION, ALL PRIZE-WINNERS WERE ALSO PRESENTED WITH CERTIFICATES OF MERIT.
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/20 ....
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
20
FACT FINDING VISIT TO UK * * * *
TWO SENIOR GOVERNMENT OFFICERS, INVOLVED IN THE MODERNISATION AND ELECTRIFICATION OF THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY, ARE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM ON A TWO-WEEK OFFICIAL VISIT.
THEY ARE MR D.M. HOWES, GENERAL MANAGER OF KCR, AND MR LEUNG MIN-SUN, CHIEF ENGINEER OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT’S CIVIL ENGINEERING OFFICE.
MR HOWES AND MR LEUNG WILL VISIT BIRMINGHAM TO SEE THE PROGRESS OF WORK ON THE ROLLING STOCKS WHICH HONG KONG HAS ORDERED FROM NETRO-CAMMELL LTD.
THEY WILL ALSO VISIT A FACTORY IN ISLE OF WIGHT TO INSPECT THE AIR-CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT FOR THE ROLLING STOCKS.
WHILE IN UK THEY WILL HOLD TALKS WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF TRANSMARK, THE GOVERNMENT APPOINTED CONSULTING ENGINEERS- AND NETRO-CAMMELL LTD, SUPPLIERS OF ROLLING STOCKS.
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PRESENTATION OF COLONIAL PRISON SERVICE MEDALS
******
THE COMMISSIONER OF PRISONS, MR T.G. GARNER, WILL PRESENT COLONIAL PRISON SERVICE MEDALS AND CLASPS TO 16 PRISON OFFICERS DURING A CEREMONIAL PARADE ON FRIDAY (MARCH 28) AT THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT’S STAFF TRAINING INSTITUTE IN STANLEY.
ON PARADE WILL BE 120 PRISON OFFICERS COMMANDED BY THE PRINCIPAL OF THE STAFF TRAINING INSTITUTE, MR PI WING-LEE. THE BAND, PIPES AND DRUMS OF TAI TAM GAP CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION WILL PROVIDE MUSIC THROUGHOUT THE EVENT.
THE MARCHING TEAM FROM THE WOMEN TRAINING CENTRE AT TAI LAM WILL ALSO PERFORM AT THE CEREMONY.
NOTE TO EDITORS i
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE PRESENTATION OF COLONIAL PRISON SERVICE MEDALS AND CLASPS BY THE COMMISSIONER OF PRISONS AT 5 PM ON FRIDAY (MARCH 28) AT THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT’S STAFF TRAINING INSTITUTE IN STANLEY. PRESS TRANSPORT WILL LEAVE THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS AT GUARDIAN HOUSE, 32 01 KWAN ROAD, WAN CHAI AT 3.45 PM SHARP.
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
21
NOTE TO EDITORSi
PASSING-OUT PARADE OF IMMIGRATION OFFICERS ft ft ft ft
A PASSING-OUT PARADE OF 69 ASSISTANT IMMIGRATION OFFICERS WILL BE HELD AT THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT PARADE GROUND, SPORTS ROAD, HAPPY VALLEY AT 9.30 AM ON MARCH 28 (FRIDAY).
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MR F.K. HU WILL TAKE THE SALUTE AT THE PARADE.
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE PASSING-OUT PARADE OF 69 ASSISTANT IMMIGRATION OFFICERS AT THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT SPORTS GROUND, HAPPY VALLEY AT 9.30 AM ON FRIDAY (MARCH 28).
-----0-----
FLOWER SHOW TO OPEN AT FANLING ft ft ft ft
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING OF THE TAI PO SIX DISTRICTS’ 4TH FLOWER SHOW AT 12 NOON ON FRIDAY (MARCH 28).
THE SHOW WILL BE HELD AT FANLING PLAYGROUND, IN FRONT OF THE RAILWAY STATION.
MORE THAN 1 000 ENTRIES, INCLUDING PRIVATE COLLECTIONS FROM PROMINENT HONG KONG RESIDENTS AND VARIOUS ORGANISATIONS, WILL BE ON DISPLAY.
MR AKERS-JONES WILL PRESENT PRIZES TO WINNING ENTRIES.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND MEMBERS OF YOUR STAFF TO COVER THE EVENT. A GOVERNMENT VEHICLE (AM 3214) WILL LEAVE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER AT 11 AM SHARP TO TAKE PRESS REPRESENTATIVES TO FANLING.
0 --------
/22......
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
22
CHILDREN’S ARTS EXHIBITION IN YUEN LONG
*****
YUEN LONG IS THE VENUE FOR A MAJOR CHILDREN’S ARTS EXHIBITION STARTING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR FUNG KWOK-KEUNG, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING OF THE FOUR-DAY EXHIBITION AT YUEN LONG TOWN HALL, STARTING AT 3 PM.
MR NATHAN MA NING-HEI, CHAIRMAN OF THE ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG CHILDREN’S ARTS EXHIBITIONS, WHICH IS RESPONSIBLE FOR BRINGING THE EXHIBITION TO YUEN LONG, SAID MORE THAN 30 □□□ LOCAL STUDENTS AND RESIDENTS WERE EXPECTED TO ATTEND.
+THE EXHIBITION FEATURES A TOTAL OF 220 EXHIBITS BY PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS FROM HONG KONG ISLAND, KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES, INCLUDING STUDENTS FROM THE NEW TOWNS OF YUEN LONG AND TUEN MUN.
♦THE THEME OF THE EXHIBITION IS ’THEIR JOYFUL MOMENTS’,* MR MA SAID.
THE MATERIALS AND IMPLEMENTS USED FOR THE EXHIBITS INCLUDE WATER-COLOUR, PASTELS, PENCILS AND FELT PENS AND FORMATS INCLUDE PLATING, BLEACHING, PRINTING, RUBBING AND COLLAGE.
MR MA SAID 160 OF THE EXHIBITS WERE SELECTED FROM MORE THAN 2 000 ENTRIES BY PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN FOR THE 1979 HONG KONG CHILDREN’S ARTS EXHIBITION, JOINTLY ORGANISED BY HIS ASSOCIATION AND THE URBAN COUNCIL.
THE REMAINING 60 EXHIBITS WERE SKETCHES BY YOUNG ARTISTS WHO WERE INVITED TO TAKE PART IN A SKETCHING ACTIVITIES PROGRAMME AT THE OCEAN PARK LAST NOVEMBER.
THE 220 EXHIBITS WERE FIRST ON DISPLAY AT THE HONG KONG MUSEUM OF ART IN THE HONG KONG CITY HALL IN JANUARY THIS YEAR.
+THE EXHIBITION WAS ORGANISED WITH THE PURPOSE OF ENCOURAGING YOUNG PEOPLE TO EXPRESS THEIR INNER FEELINGS AND RECORD THEIR MOMENTS OF HAPPINESS WHILE THEIR VISION IS FRESH AND THEIR RESPONSE TO MATERIAL IS DIRECT AND SPONTANEOUS,* MR MA SAID.
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/23
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
23
STUDY ROOMS FOR STUDENTS * * *
MORE THAN 7 500 STUDY ROOM PLACES WILL BE AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT HONG KONG FOR PRIMARY AND SECONDARY STUDENTS BETWEEN APRIL AND JUNE.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID ABOUT 200 STUDY ROOMS WILL BE OPENED FROM MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS IN GOVERNMENT AND AIDED SCHOOLS BETWEEN APRIL 1 AND JUNE 30, EXCLUDING PUBLIC HOLIDAYS, TO PROVIDE STUDENTS WITH A QUIET PLACE TO STUDY AND DO THEIR HOMEWORK.
THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB HAS DONATED $213 000 TO PROVIDE A TOTAL OF 80 CLASSROOMS IN 33 SCHOOLS EXCLUSIVELY FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS.
THESE ROOMS WILL BE OPEN FOR THREE HOURS IN THE EVENING FROM 6 PM TO 9 PM.
AT THE SAME TIME, FUNDS ARE PROVIDED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO OPERATE 108 STUDY ROOMS IN 45 GOVERNMENT AND AIDED PRIMARY SCHOOLS. THE OPENING HOURS WILL BE FROM 7 PM TO 9 PM.
THE STUDY ROOMS OPERATED UNDER THIS SCHEME WILL MAINLY BE FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID, BUT SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS MAY ALSO USE THESE ROOMS IF THEY WISH.
SUPERVISORS WILL BE PRESENT IN THESE STUDY ROOMS TO ENSURE THAT ALL ATTENDANTS HAVE A SUITABLE ENVIRONMENT TO STUDY AND DO THEIR HOMEWORK.
NO PRIVATE TUITION WILL BE PROVIDED BY THE SUPERVISORS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
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/24 ...
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 1980
24
HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS FOR MARINE DEPARTMENT * * X X
THE MARINE DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT ITS PORT COMMUNICATION CENTRE AND PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREAS IN WAN CHAI, YAU MA TEI. KWUN TONG, AND TSUEN WAN WILL REMAIN OPEN AS USUAL ON MONDAY (MARCH 31) WHICH IS A GENERAL HOLIDAY.
ON MONDAY THE VICTORIA SMALL CRAFT LICENSING SECTION WILL OPERATE FROM 9 AM TO 11 AM AND THE MACAU FERRY WHARF UNIT FROM 7.30 AM TO 1.30 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY.
DAY.
ALL OTHER OFFICES OF THE
DEPARTMENT WILL BE CLOSED ON THAT
- 0
WATER CUT MMX
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF PREMISES IN LEI YUE MUN WILL BE TURNED OFF FOR 10 HOURS FROM 9 PM ON FRIDAY (MARCH 28) TO 7 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE WATER WORKS.
THE PREMISES TO BE AFFECTED ARE AT KO FAI ROAD, SHUNG TAK WAI, TUNG YUEN STREET, SHUNG SHUN STREET, SZE SHAN STREET, CHO YUEN STREET, LEI YUE MUN VILLAGE, SHUNG WO PATH, YAN YUE WAI, AND CHA KWO LING ROAD BETWEEN KO FAI ROAD AND SHUNG SHUN STREET.
- - 0----------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL 5-233191
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
BRITISH CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY’S DECISION ON HK-LONDON -ROUTE NOT FaIR ....;;.......... 1
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT - HK’S•TOP■PRIORITY ...................... 2
POLICY • ON • ILLEGAL IMI IGRaTION UNDER SCRUTINY ..."........ 3
SEPARATE'TAX ALLOWANCES FOR WORKING MARRIED WOMEN ADVOCATED................................................4
TECHNICAL DISCUSSIONS ON TEXTILES‘WITH USA DELEGATION’.........6
GOVERNMSI'iT URGED TO HELP SET UP INDUSTRIAL SAFETY COMMITTEES ................................................... 6
TOURISM MAKES SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE ECONOMY ...................................................... 8
MEDICAL FACILITIES IF PUBLIC SECTOR NEED UPGRADING........... 10
GET MORE VALUE OUT OF THE CIVIL SERVICE ......................12
PLEA FOR IMPROVEMENTS IN LESS OBVIOUS SOCIAL SERVICES .................................................... 13
HOUSEHOLD SURVEY SHOULD HELP SHAPE TAXATION POLICY .......... 15
/Land policy .....
LAND POLICY MUST BE COMPATIBLE WITH INDUSTRY.iL DIVERSIFICATION ................................................ 16
CALL FOK CENTRALISED TRAINING SCHEME............................ 18
HEALTH -CARE EXHIBITION CPEi’S ................................. 19
GOVERNOR TO LAUNCH SjILVaTIGN ARMY'S 5OTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS ................................................... 20
SNT TO OPEN CLUBHOUSE FOR SCOUTS ............................... 20
I RD’S KOWLOON SUB-OFFICE TO OPERATE IN NEU PREMISES ........... 21
TECHNIC,J. INSTITUTE TO HOLD OPEN DaY .......................... 21
YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICER OPENS CHILDREN'S ARTS EXHIBITION ..................................................... 22
AMS ANNUAL DINNER............................................... 23
URBAN CLEAR /aYS IN .'.'aN chai ................................ 23
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
1
BRITISH CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY’S DECISION ON HK-LONDON ROUTE NOT FAIR ******
THE SENIOR UNOFFICIAL LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, THE HON OSWALD CHEUNG, TODAY HIT OUT AT THE DECISION OF THE BRITISH CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY FOR NOT GRANTING LANDING RIGHTS ON THE HONG KONG-LONDON AIR ROUTE TO CATHAY PACIFIC.
SPEAKING IN THE LEG I SLAT IVE COUNCIL, HE SAIDi +ONE RATHER SUSPECTS THE DECISION WAS POLITICAL.
♦OUR WHOLLY DEPENDENT STATUS FAILED TO PROTECT US IN THE EEC TEXTILE NEGOTIATIONS- HERE IT WILL WORK TO OUR POSITIVE DISADVANTAGE, UNLESS THE MINISTER RECTIFIES THE ERRORS. IT IS WITHIN HIS POWER.*
MR CHEUNG POINTED OUT THAT THE BUDGET PROVIDED $5*9 MILLION THIS YEAR FOR DOUBLE TRACKING AND ELECTRIFICATION OF THE KOWLOON CANTON RAILWAY. THE WHOLE PROJECT WILL COST $2 BILLION, OF WHICH A VERY LARGE PART WILL BE SPENT IN THE UNITED KINGDOM WITH WHOM HONG KONG HAS PLACED THE ORDER OF THE ROLLING STOCK.
THE ROLLING STOCK FOR THE MTR WAS ALSO SUPPLIED BY THE UK.
HE NOTED THAT HONG KONG COULD HAVE PLACED THE ORDERS ELSEWHERE BUT DID NOT DO SO +BECAUSE WE BELIEVED IN FOSTERING RECIPROCITY IN TRADE BETWEEN THE UK AND HONG KONG*.
+IT HAS COME THEREFORE AS A SURPRISE TO ME THAT IN THE MATTER OF GRANTING LANDING RIGHTS ON THE HONG KONG-LONDON AIR ROUTE THE CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY IN LONDON SHOULD HAVE FORGOTTEN ABOUT RECIPROCITY! RECIPROCITY BOTH AS REGARDS TWO-WAY TRADE, AND RECIPROCITY IN THE SPECIFIC MATTER OF LANDING RIGHTS,* HE SAID.
♦ BRITISH AIRWAYS HELD THE MONOPOLY FOR 30 YEARS. INSTEAD OF RECIPROCATING BY GRANTING A LICENCE TO CATHAY PACIFIC, EITHER WITH THE ADDITION OF BRITISH CALEDONIAN OR TO ITS EXCLUSION, THEY HAVE ADDED A SECOND BRITISH CARRIER TO THE ROUTE.
+THE REASONS GIVEN BY THE CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY DO NOT BEAR EXAMINATION FOR ONE MINUTE.
♦ WE WOULD NOT BE BETTER SERVED BY AN AIRLINE THAT PROPOSES TO USE THE SMALLER DC-10 RATHER THAN THE BOEING 747.+
THE CAA HAS COMPLETELY IGNORED THE PATTERN OF TRAFFIC, WITH PEAKS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE WEEK-END AND DIPS IN MID-WEEK, HE ADDED.
MR CHEUNG SAID AS CATHAY WAS ENCOURAGED TO BUY UK EQUIPMENT, THEY HAVE SPECIFIED THAT THEIR 747S SHOULD BE POWERED BY ROLLS ROYCE ENGINES.
♦ I AM INFORMED THEY HAVE INVESTED 70 MILLION POUND STERLING IN ROLLS ROYCE ENGINES TO THAT END, AND PLAN TO INVEST 10 MILLION POUND STERLING A YEAR ON OTHER UK EQUIPMENT. THIS WAS IN FURTHERANCE OF RECIPROCITY,+ HE SAID.
/+THE DECISION ..
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 198c
2
♦THE DECISION OF THE CIVIL AV I AT ION AUTHOR ITT CASTS SOME DOUBT ON WHETHER BRITAIN SINCERELY PRACTISES WHAT IT PREACHES.
♦I CAN ONLY HOPE THAT WISER COUNSEL NOW PREVAIL, LEST SENTIMENT WITHERS,* MR CHEUNG ADDED.
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HOUSING DEVELOPMENT - HK’S TOP PRIORITY ft ft ft ft ft *
HONG KONG’S TOP PRIORITY IS TO PRODUCE AS MANY HOUSES At POSSIBLE IN THE SHORTEST POSSIBLE TIME, SAID THE HON CHARLES YEUNG.
TO ACHIEVE THIS TARGET, MR YEUNG SUGGESTED THAT MORE PRIVATE AND CROWN LAND BE FORMED AND MADE AVAILABLE FOR HOUSING DEVELOPMENT.
AS THE FIRST STEP HE SAID RESOURCES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO PROVIDE MORE AND BETTER ROADS AND OTHER TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES URGENTLY.
HE NOTED THE 10-YEAR PUBLIC HOUSING PROGRAMME IS EXPECTED TO FALL SHORT BY A BIG MARGIN.
OFFICIAL STATISTICS SHOW THAT MORE THAN HALF A MILLION HOUSEHOLDS ARE STILL IN URGENT NEED OF PROPER OR IMPROVED HOUSING, OF WHICH 130 000 FAMILIES ARE LIVING IN SQUATTER HUTS WITHOUT PROPER SANITATION AND ROAD ACCESS.
HE CRITICISED THE GOVERNMENT FOR CONCENTRATING EXCESSIVELY ON INDUSTRIAL DEMAND FOR SPACE AND WORKFORCE SUPPORT BUT FAILED TO DEVISE A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO MEET THE GENERAL HOUSING NEED.
ON COMMUNICATION SYSTEM IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR YEUNG SAID IT SHOULD BE IMPROVED AND EXPANDED AS A MATTER OF TOP PRIORITY SINCE MORE THAN HALF OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL POPULATION WILL BE HOUSED IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WITHIN THIS DECADE.
HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT SPEND ENOUGH ON ROAD PROJECTS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
HE BACKED UP HIS REMARKS WITH THE FOLLOWING OBSERVATIONS!
ft NOTHING TOWARDS THE MAJOR IMPROVEMENT TO THE ROAD SERVICE ON LANTAO ISLAND, EXCEPT THE PROPOSED ROAD TO SERVE NORTH LANTAO WHICH IS INCIDENTAL TO, AND DEPENDENT ON, THE DECISION TO CONSTRUCT THE CHEK LAP KOK AIRPORT-
ft NO MOTORABLE ROAD AT ALL ON LAMMA ISLAND AND CHEUNG CHAU-
ft IMPROVEMENTS TO THE ROAD NETWORKS IN SAI KUNG AND THE NEW TERRITORIES MAINLAND HAVE BEEN VERY SLOW AND, TIME AND AGAIN, POSTPONED, AND
/X THE CIRCULAR .
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
3
* THE CIRCULAR ROAD FROM AU TAU TO FANLING VIA MAI PO HAS BEEN IN THE PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME FOR THE LAST 20 YEARS AND THE DATE FOR ITS CONSTRUCTION IS STILL UNCERTAIN.
MR YEUNG SAID IT IS THEREFORE JUSTIFIED AND NECESSARY TO RE-ADJUST THE ESTIMATES OF EXPENDITURE.
♦EVEN IF OUR EXISTING POLICY SHOULD PREVENT US FROM REALISING EXTRA REVENUE TO FINANCE THE PUBLIC HOUSING PROGRAMME AND THE SUPPORTING INFRASTRUCTURAL FACILITIES, THE ESTIMATED SURPLUS AND IF IT NEED BE THE ACCUMULATED RESERVES SHOULD BE EMPLOYED DIRECTLY TO FUND THESE PROJECTS.
♦ALTERNATIVELY, THEY MAY BE FINANCED INDIRECTLY BY RAISING OUTSIDE LOANS, IRRESPECTIVE OF THE POSSIBLE INFLATIONARY EFFECT THAT SUCH A MOVE IS LIKELY TO HAVE ON HONG KONG - FOR THIS IS THE PRICE THAT WE WILL HAVE TO PAY FOR DECENT HOUSING AND RAPID TRANSIT FOR ALL.+ HE ADDED.
_ _ 0 - -
POLICY ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION UNDER SCRUTINY ******
THE HON F.K. HU CRITICISED THE GOVERNMENT FOR THE WAY IT HANDLES ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM CHINA.
POINTING OUT THAT THE PRESENT POLICY HAS GREATLY ENCOURAGED THE UNLAWFUL EXODUS, MR HU SAID THE PUBLIC IS RATHER DISAPPOINTED BY THE GOVERNMENT’S LACK OF EFFECTIVE ACTION.
HE SAID THAT ALTHOUGH EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO STOP ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS, BOTH AT THE LAND AND SEA BORDERS, AS MANY AS 500 PEOPLE STILL MANAGE TO FILTER INTO THE URBAN AREAS DAILY.
SHOULD IMMIGRATION CONTINUE AT ITS PRESENT HIGH RATE, HE ADDED, THERE WOULD BE OBVIOUS REPERCUSSIONS ON THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE TO THE DETRIMENT OF HONG KONG’S LONG ESTABLISHED RESIDENTS.
♦THE ONLY WAY TO STOP THE INFLUX IS TO REPATRIATE ALL ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS, INCLUDING THOSE WHO HAVE SUCCEEDED IN REACHING THE URBAN AREAS.
♦NO IDENTITY CARD SHOULD BE ISSUED AND THEY WOULD BE SENT BACK IF FOUND ANYWHERE IN HONG KONG.+
HE ALSO SUGGESTED THAT LEGISLATION SHOULD BE ENACTED TO PREVENT EMPLOYERS FROM ENGAGING AND LANDLORDS OR PRINCIPAL TENANTS FROM LETTING THEIR PREMISES TO ANY PERSON NOT IN POSSESSION OF AN IDENTITY CARD.
TURNING TO PUBLIC HOUSING, MR HU SAID THE ANNUAL PRODUCTION RATE OF 35 000 UNITS IS TOO LOW AND SHOULD BE IMPROVED WHEN THE PRESENT STRAIN ON THE CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING INDUSTRY IS OVERCOME.
/BUT HE
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 19&
4
BUT HE POINTED OUT THAT SINCE THE COST OF PUBLIC HOUSING PRODUCTION WILL BE INCREASINGLY MET FROM GENERAL REVENUE, THE BURDEN WILL BE FURTHER INCREASED IF ADDITIONAL ANNUAL PRODUCTION IS REQUIRED.
♦I SUGGESTED THAT PUBLIC HOUSING RENT SHOULD BE ASSESSED IN SUCH A WAY AS TO GENERATE SUFFICIENT RESERVE IN ORDER TO ALLOW FOR NEW DEVELOPMENTS, WITHOUT RELYING TOO HEAVILY ON GENERAL REVENUE.
+RENT SHOULD BE SET AT A LEVEL WITHIN THE FINANCIAL CAPACITY OF MOST TENANTS, SAY 20 PER CENT OF THEIR INCOME.
+AT THE SAME TIME, A NEW RENT SUBSIDY SCHEME SHOULD BE INTRODUCED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT TO ASSIST THOSE WHO COULD NOT AFFORD THE RENT,* HE SAID.
TERMING THE GROWING CIVIL SERVICE *A CONTRIBUTING CAUSE FOR INFLATION*, MR HU SAID HE WAS WORRIED WHETHER THE EXPANSION WAS JUSTIFIED.
ANY INCREASE IN PAY IN REAL TERMS WITHOUT A CORRESPOND I NG INCREASE IN PRODUCTIVITY IS INFLATIONARY, HE EXPLAINED.
♦ARE WE ACTUALLY CREATING POSTS TO COPE WITH ADDITIONAL WORKLOAD OR ARE WE CREATING MORE POSTS FOR THE PURPOSE OF SUPERVISION WITHOUT ANY REAL INCREASE IN WORKLOAD?* HE ASKED.
HE PROPOSED THAT EACH DEPARTMENT SHOULD LOOK INTO THE POSSIBILITY OF SIMPLIFYING WORKING PROCEDURES AND STUDY WHETHER THEY COULD CONTRACT OUT ANY WORK PRESENTLY UNDERTAKEN DIRECTLY TO THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN ORDER TO REDUCE ITS ESTABLISHMENT.
ON RECREATION, MR HU NOTED THAT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT IS PLANNING TO UNDERTAKE A SPECIAL SURVEY OF LEISURE PURSUITS IN NOVEMBER 1981 AS THERE IS A GREAT NEED FOR INFORMATION FOR THE PLANNING OF RECREATIONAL SERVICES.
+THIS ACTION IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED AND I DO HOPE THAT A LONG-TERM PLAN ON THE PROVISION OF RECREATIONAL FACILITIES CAN BE DECIDED UPON BEFORE LONG,* HE SAID.
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SEPARATE TAX ALLOWANCES FOR WORKING MARRIED WOMEN ADVOCATED *****
UNOFFICIAL LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR THE HON WONG LAM TODAY (THURSDAY) CALLED FOR THE GRANTING OF SEPARATE TAX ALLOWANCES FOR WORKING MARRIED WOMEN.
SPEAKING AT THE RESUMED BUDGET DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, HE SAID MANY YOUNG WOMEN, EVEN THOUGH THEY WERE WELL EDUCATED, LEFT THEIR JOBS ONCE THEY GOT MARRIED.
/HE felt .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
- 5 -
HE FELT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD TRY TO ENCOURAGE THEM TO REJOIN THE WORKFORCE AS THE LABOUR FORCE OF HONG KONG MUST HAVE HIGHER LEVELS OF EDUCATION AND THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR MUST EMPLOY HIGH TECHNOLOGY.
ONE OF THE BEST FORMS OF ENCOURAGEMENT HE SAID WAS BY GRANTING TAX ALLOWANCES FOR THOSE WORKING MARRIED WOMEN, THUS INSPIRING THEM TO REJOIN THE WORKFORCE.
+THE GRANTING OF SUCH AN ALLOWANCE MAY ALSO GO A LONG WAY TO RESOLVING THE CONTROVERSY OF WHETHER A MARRIED COUPLE SHOULD BE ASSESSED SEPARATELY AND ALSO ON PERSONAL ALLOWANCE.+
MR WONG ALSO EXPRESSED CONCERN OVER THE ♦ALARMINGLY HIGH+ NUMBER OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM CHINA.
THE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS HAVE NOT ONLY GENERATED A DEMAND FOR LARGE PUBLIC EXPENDITURE, THEY ALSO CONSTITUTE A THREAT TO LAW AND ORDER, HE SAID.
THE MOST IMPORTANT POINT IS THAT THEY HAVE RELATIVELY LOW PRODUCTIVITY AND THEREFORE CANNOT CONTRIBUTE MUCH TO THE VARIOUS SECTORS OF HONG KONG, HE ADDED.
MR WONG SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD REVISE ITS CURRENT POLICY ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS AND OVERSTAYERS WITH A VIEW TO REDUCING THE NUMBER OF SUCH PEOPLE.
+IT SHOULD ALSO APPROPRIATE ADEQUATE FUNDS TO STRENGTHEN THE MILITARY AND POLICE FORCES SO AS TO STOP POTENTIAL ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
♦HOWEVER, MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL, THE CHINESE AND BRITISH AUTHORITIES SHOULD BE MADE AWARE OF THE GREAT ANXIETIES OF THE RESIDENTS OF HONG KONG ARISING FROM THE LARGE INFLUX OF IMMIGRANTS AND THE UNDESIRABLE EFFECT IT MIGHT BRING TO THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC SITUATION OF HONG KONG,+ HE ADDED.
MR WONG BELIEVED THAT THROUGH FURTHER NEGOTIATIONS AND CO-OPERATION AMONG THE GOVERNMENTS OF CHINA, BRITAIN AND HONG KONG, A MORE SATISFACTORY SOLUTION TO THIS PROBLEM COULD BE FOUND.
ON THE SUBJECT OF INFLATION, MR WONG URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO DISCOURAGE THE COMMUNITY’S DESIRE TO CONSUME AND ENCOURAGE THEM TO SAVE.
HE PROPOSED TWO WAYS TO ACHIEVE THISt
* TO GRANT SMALL SAVERS, SAY NOT EXCEEDING $100 000, SOME FORM OF CONCESSION, FOR EXAMPLE, EXEMPTION FROM INTEREST TAX.
* FOR INDIVIDUALS WHOSE INTEREST EARNINGS DO NOT EXCEED $15 000 A YEAR FROM FIXED DEPOSITS, TO REPORT THIS TO THE INLAND REVENUE DEPARTMENT SO THAT THEY COULD BE ALLOWED TO TREAT THE INTEREST TAX ALREADY DEDUCTED BY THE BANKS AS PART OF THEIR PAID-UP TAX.
/turning to .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
6
TURNING TO PERSONAL TAXATION, MR WONG SAID HE DID NOT INTEND TO REQUEST THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO REVIEW THE PROPOSED INCREASE.
WHILE CONCEDING THE INCREASE IS INCOMMENSURATE WITH THE RATE OF INFLATION OVER THE PAST SIX YEARS, HE POINTED OUT THAT AS THE TOP PLATFORM OF TAX WAS LOWERED FROM*30 PER CENT TO 25 PER CENT LAST YEAR THE PRESENT INCREASE IN PERSONAL ALLOWANCE IS ACTUALLY HIGHER THAN THE APPARENT 50 PER CENT AS COMPARED WITH SIX YEARS AGO.
+HOWEVER I THINK THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD REVISE THE ALLOWANCE CORRESPONDINGLY IN THE LIGHT OF THE ANNUAL RATE OF INFLATION EVERY YEAR INSTEAD OF REVIEWING AND REVISING IT ONCE EVERY FEW YEARS.*
MR WONG ALSO URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO RAISE THE CHILD ALLOWANCE ON THE FIRST TWO CHILDREN BUT NOT FOR THE THIRD CHILD AND THE CHILDREN THEREAFTER BECAUSE *SUCH A MOVE MAY UNINTENTIONALLY ENCOURAGE THE BIRTH RATE*.
- - 0 - -
TECHNICAL DISCUSSIONS ON TEXTILES WITH USA DELEGATION ******
A UNITED STATES DELEGATION, HEADED BY MR DONALD MCCONVILLE, DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF TEXTILES. STATE DEPARTMENT, WILL BE IN HONG KONG NEXT TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY (APRIL 1-2) FOR TALKS.
MR PETER TSAO, DIRECTOR OF TRADE OF THE TRADE, INDUSTRY AND CUSTOMS DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (THURSDAY), THE DELEGATION WAS HERE TO DISCUSS A NUMBER OF TECHNICAL MATTERS ARISING FROM THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE US/HK TEXTILE AGREEMENT.
MR MCCONVILLE WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY REPRESENTATIVES FROM OTHER USA AGENCIES, INCLUDING THE COMMERCE AND LABOUR DEPARTMENTS.
THE HONG KONG DELEGATION WILL BE HEADED BY MR JUSTIN YUE, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF TRADE.
-----0------
GOVERNMENT URGED TO HELP SET UP INDUSTRIAL SAFETY COMMITTEES *****
THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD HELP SET UP JOINT SAFETY COMMITTEES IN FACTORIES AND BUILDING SITES AS A PRACTICAL APPROACH TO PREVENT INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS, SAID DR THE HON HO KAM-FAI.
HE SAID THE COMMITTEES’ MAIN FUNCTIONS WOULD BE TO ENSURE IMPLEMENTATION OF SAFETY LEGISLATION, TO MONITOR COMPLIANCE AND TO REPORT TO THE GOVERNMENT ANY DEFICIENCIES IN THE EXISTING REGULATIONS ON INDUSTRIAL SAFETY.
/ALARMED BY .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
7
ALARMED BY THE APPARENT DISREGARD FOR SAFETY AS EVIDENCED IN THE RISING NUMBER OF INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS, HE POINTED OUT THAT NEARLY TWICE AS MANY WORKERS WERE KILLED IN HONG KONG THAN IN SINGAPORE, AND SIX TIMES AS MANY AS IN BRITAIN.
IN TERMS OF FINANCIAL LOSSES, $24 MILLION WAS PAID OUT AS WORKMEN'S COMPENSATION IN 1978 WHILE ANOTHER $120 MILLION AS INDIRECT COSTS.
THE JOINT COMMITTEES, HE CONTINUED, SHOULD THEREFORE COMPRISE REPRESENTATIVES FROM EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES - BOTH ARE DIRECT BENEFICIARIES OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY.
+THE OVERALL OBJECTIVE AND SAFETY CONSCIOUSNESS ON
WOULD BE TO GENERATE SELF-DISCIPLINE THE SHOP FLOOR.
+ONLY WHEN SELF-DISCIPLINE IS ATTAINED CAN WE CONFIDENTLY EXPECT A STEADY DECLINE IN THE RATE OF INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS.*
ON ITS PART, HE SAID, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH MANAGEMENT AND LABOUR ARE PROPERLY OBSERVING THE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY REGULATIONS.
+1 WOULD URGE THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR TO BRING THE STAFFING IN THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE DIVISION AND THE PROSECUTIONS AND TRAINING DIVISION UP TO THE REQUIRED LEVEL AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO ENSURE THAT THERE WILL BE SUFFICIENT INSPECTORS TO INSPECT FACTORIES AND CONSTRUCTION SITES REGULARLY,* HE SAID.
IT SHOULD ALSO UNDERTAKE TO TRANSMIT SAFETY MEASURES TO INDUSTRIALISTS AND WORKERS THROUGH PUBLICITY.
TURNING TO IMMIGRATION FROM CHINA HE SAID IT WOULD TAKE BOTH LEGAL AND ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS SOMETIME TO ADJUST TO HONG KONG’S PACE AND WAY OF LIFE, AND WHEN DISORIENTATED AND FRUSTRATED, THEY MAY FALL PREY TO TRIAD SOCIETIES OR POLITICAL EXTREMISTS.
TO ASSIST THEIR INTEGRATION INTO THE MAIN STREAM OF LOCAL COMMUNITY, DR HO SUGGESTED THAT EFFORTS SHOULD BE TAKEN TO HELP THE IMMIGRANTS TO ATTAIN ECONOMIC SELF-EFFICIENCY AND SOCIAL EDUCATION.
AS HONG KONG’S THRIVING ECONOMY ABOUNDS WITH JOB OPPORTUNITIES, HE SAID THE NEW ARRIVALS SHOULD BE PROVIDED WITH VOCATIONAL, LANGUAGE AND APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING.
+A CO-ORDINATED EMPLOYMENT SERVICE FOR BOTH THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR IS NECESSARY TO MATCH JOB SEEKERS WITH VACANT POSTS.*
HE PROPOSED SOCIAL EDUCATION COULD BEST EE UNDERTAKEN BY THE VOLUNTARY SECTORS, SUBVENTED BY THE GOVERNMENT AS PART OF THE ADULT EDUCATION SCHEME.
+FUNDS FROM GENERAL REVENUE ARE NECESSARY TO SUPPORT THESE EFFORTS, BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, POLICY GUIDELINES AND DIRECTION ON INTEGRATION MUST COME FROM THE GOVERNMENT,* HE ADDED.
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/8
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
8
TOURISM MAKES SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE ECONOMY ******
THE HON DAVID NEWBIGGING TODAY DESCRIBED THE QUANTIFICATION FOR THE FIRST TIME OF HONG KONG’S OVERALL INVISIBLE TRADE AS A MAJOR STEP FORWARD.
SPEAKING AT THE RESUMED BUDGET DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL HE SAID: +N0 DOUBT IN FUTURE YEARS WAYS WILL BE FOUND OF REFINING AND INCREASING THE PRECISION OF THE ACTUAL FIGURES.
♦HOWEVER, THAT OUR OVERALL TRADE WITH THE REST OF THE WORLD IS ESTIMATED TO HAVE BEEN ALMOST IN BALANCE IN 1979 DOES INDEED HELP TO SET OUR LARGEST EVER VISIBLE TRADE DEFICIT, IN ABSOLUTE TERMS, IN A LESS WORRISOME LIGHT, AND ALSO TO EMPHASISE THE IMPORTANCE OF SOME OF OUR GROWING SERVICE INDUSTRIES^ HE SAID.
IN THE LATTER CONTEXT, HE BELIEVED THE RESULTS OF A RECENT STUDY OF THE ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTION OF INWARD TOURISM, ONE OF THE SERVICE INDUSTRIES, TO BE HIGHLY RELEVANT.
QUOTING FIGURES IN THE SURVEY WHICH WAS COMMISSIONED BY THE HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION AND CARRIED OUT BY THE PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL, HE SAID THE ADDED VALUE FOR TOURISM IN 1978 AVERAGED 45 PER CENT AS AGAINST 36 PER CENT AND 32 PER CENT FOR TWO LEADING MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES.
THE ADDED VALUE PER EMPLOYEE WAS SOME $57 000 IN TOURISM’S CASE AS AGAINST $21 000 AND $29 000 FOR THE OTHER TWO.
♦THESE FIGURES WOULD TEND TO CONTRADICT THE FREQUENTLY EXPRESSED VIEW, REFERRED TO IN A RECENT EDITION OF THE FAR EASTERN ECONOMIC REVIEW THAT, OWING TO ITS HIGH IMPORT CONTENT -A CHARACTERISTIC, INCIDENTALLY, OF VIRTUALLY ALL HONG KONG INDUSTRY - THE NET CONTRIBUTION OF INWARD TOURISM IS NOT PARTICULARLY SIGNIFICANT.
♦ WHEN APPLIED TO THE TOTAL OF OVER $6 BILLION THAT VISITORS SPENT IN HONG KONG IN 1979, ADDED VALUE OF 45 PER CENT PRODUCES A VERY WORTHWHILE RESULT INDEED.
♦ THIS OF COURSE ASSUMES THAT THE 1978 ADDED VALUE PERCENTAGE WAS AT LEAST MAINTAINED IN 1979.
♦ THERE ARE, IN FACT, SOME GROUNDS FOR BELIEVING THAT IT ACTUALLY INCREASED ALTHOUGH THE FIGURES HAVE NOT YET BEEN COMPILED,+ HE SAID.
MR NEWBIGGING STRESSED THAT HIS PURPOSE OF HIGHLIGHTING THIS ISSUE WAS NOT TO DOWNGRADE THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES WHICH ARE CERTAIN TO REMAIN THE BACKBONE OF HONG KONG’S ECONOMY FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE, BUT TO DRAW ATTENTION TO DEVELOPMENTS IN THE SERVICE SECTORS SINCE THEIR RELATIVE GROWTH CONSTITUTE +A VERY IMPORTANT ELEMENT IN THE DIVERSIFICATION PROCESS*.
ON THE SUBJECT OF LAND AND HOUSING, MR NEWBIGGING CALLED ON THE GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE MORE COMPREHENSIVE AND CONSISTENT STATISTICS TO FACILITATE ANALYSIS ON THIS VITAL ISSUE.
/H3 POINTSD .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
9
HE POINTED OUT THAT IN ORDER TO ASSESS THE CHANCES OF ACHIEVING THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S FORECASTS ON LAND PRODUCTION, LAND SALES, AND PRODUCTION OF PUBLIC HOUSING, HE HAD ATTEMPTED TO COMPARE THE ACTUAL PERFORMANCE IN RECENT YEARS AND THE LATEST FORECASTS FOR FUTURE YEARS IN THESE THREE AREAS.
HOWEVER, HE SAID, SOME DATA WAS GIVEN FOR FINANCIAL YEARS, OTHERS FOR CALENDAR YEARS- SOMETIMES THE LAND SOLD WAS USED TO MEAN LAND SALES, AT OTHERS TOTAL LAND TRANSACTIONS.
MR NEWBIGGING QUOTED TWO EXAMPLES I
* IN THE ECONOMIC BACKGROUND TO THE 1979 BUDGET, THE FIGURE FOR 1978 LAND SALES WAS GIVEN AS 52 000 SQUARE METRES-IN 1980'S ECONOMIC BACKGROUND, 1978 LAND SALES HAD BECOME 181 000 SQUARE METRES- AND
* IN THE 1979 BUDGET SPEECH THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID THAT 249 ACRES OF LAND HAD BEEN SOLD BUT. 77 PARAGRAPHS LATER, THAT LAND SALES WERE ONLY 58 ACRES, BOTH WITH REFERENCE TO THE 1978/79 FINANCIAL YEAR.
IN THE LIGHT OF THESE DIFFICULTIES, HE SAID, HIS ANALYSIS WOULD ONLY SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING VERY TENTATIVE CONCLUSIONS 1
* ON LAND PRODUCTION, THE FORECAST FOR 1980/81 IS LOWER THAN ACTUALLY ACHIEVED IN THE PREVIOUS TWO YEARS AND THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S FORECASTS FOR ENSUING YEARS OF SOME 1 100 ACRES PER ANNUM'ARE IN LINE WITH RECENT AND IMMEDIATELY PROSPECTIVE EXPERIENCE.
* ON LAND SALES, THE FORECASTS FOR THE NEXT THREE YEARS ARE ON AVERAGE SOME 40 PER CENT HIGHER THAN THE REVISED ESTIMATE FOR 1979/80 - ITSELF A RECORD - AND, GIVEN THE WELL-KNOWN PROBLEMS OF TURNING SUCH PLANS INTO REALITY, SHOULD BE REGARDED WITH SOME CAUTION- AND
# ON PUBLIC HOUSING, ACTUAL PRODUCTION HAS INCREASED BY NO LESS THAN 3.4 TIMES SINCE 1976/77 AND IS ESTIMATED TO HAVE BEEN WITHIN SIX PER CENT OF THE 35 000 UNITS TARGET IN THE YEAR NOW ENDING.
TURNING TO TRANSPORT, MR NEWBIGGING BELIEVED THE HONG KONG ISLAND EASTERN CORRIDOR PROJECT - THOUGH IMPORTANT - SHOULD NOT ♦DEFLECT US FROM AN EARLY DECISION ON A RAIL SYSTEM COVERING THE NORTH SIDE OF HONG KONG ISLAND+.
HE SAIDi +MY RECOMMENDATION ON THIS IS QUITE STRAIGHTFORWARD AND SIMPLE - EVEN THOUGH IT MAY RUN CONTRARY TO THE INTEREST I DECLARE AS CHAIRMAN OF HONG KONG TRAMWAYS LTD : WE SHOULD BORE A HOLE FOR AN UNDERGROUND RAILWAY FROM KENNEDY TOWN TO SHAU KI WAN, AND THE SOONER THE BETTER.+
THE MTR HAS PROVEN ITS ABILITY TO DELIVER A FUNCTIONING SYSTEM ON TIME AND UNDER BUDGET, HE NOTED.
♦ A SUBTERRANEAN SYSTEM HAS THE TWIN ADVANTAGES OF CAUSING LESS DISTURBANCE TO THE COMMUNITY AND CONSUMING LESS OF HONG KONG’S SCARCEST RESOURCE, LAND.
/+FURTHZR DELAY .....
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
10
♦FURTHER DELAY WILL ADD TO THE COST, LOSE THE ADVANTAGE OF A PROVEN EXISTING DEVELOPMENT TEAM, AND DEFER THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC ADVANTAGE THAT THE SYSTEM WILL BRING,+ MR NEWBIGGING ADDED.
REFERRING TO THE BUDGET ITSELF, MR NEWBIGGING SAID THAT, ALTHOUGH HARD TO FAULT, IT IS ONE WHICH RUNS THE RISK OF STIMULATING FURTHER DOMESTIC INFLATION - HONG KONG’S EVER-THREATENING PUBLIC ENEMY NO 1 - IN ADDITION TO THE IMPORTED VARIETY.
HE SAID HE WOULD AGREE WITH THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY THAT ♦THIS DANGER IS ONE THAT WE MUST ACCEPT - BUT WITHIN DISCIPLINED L'MITS - IN ORDER TO DEAL WITH OUR SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC IMPERATIVES*.
-----0------
MEDICAL FACILITIES IN PUBLIC SECTOR NEED UPGRADING K * * *
THE GOVERNMENT WAS ASKED TODAY BY THE REV THE HON JOYCE BENNETT TO UPGRADE THE MEDICAL PROVISION IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR AS IT DID TO" THE EDUCATION SYSTEM.
SPEAKING AT THE RESUMED BUDGET DEBATE THIS AFTERNOON, MISS BENNETT SAID IN THE EDUCATIONAL FIELD THE SCHOOLS’ SITUATION WAS NOW MUCH HEALTHIER SINCE THERE WERE NOW TO BE NO SECOND-CLASS AIDED SCHOOLS. +STAFF AND STUDENTS WILL BOTH BENEFIT FROM TH ISOUR EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM AS A WHOLE WILL REAP THE REWARDS OF THIS NEW APPROACH.♦
HOWEVER SHE SAID OUR PRESENT HOSPITALS LEFT MUCH TO BE DESIRED-OUR MEDICAL FACILITIES ARE AS YET INADEQUATE AND SHE RECOGNISED THAT THERE WERE VERY GOOD PLANS FOR IMPROVING THEM.
MISS BENNETT SAID ONE VITAL DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SUBVENTED HOSPITALS AND EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS WAS IN STAFF RECRUITMENT.
WHILE AIDED SCHOOLS CAN EASILY FIND SUITABLE TEACHERS, ALTHOUGH THEY ARE NOT ABLE TO OFFER PENSIONS, HOUSING, MEDICAL BENEFITS OR EDUCATIONAL ALLOWANCES, THE HOSPITALS CANNOT FIND ENOUGH DOCTORS, ANAESTHETISTS, NURSE TUTORS, PHYSIOTHERAPISTS AND MANY OTHERS IN THE PARA-MEDICAL FIELD, SHE SAID. NEITHER ARE THERE ENOUGH TRAINED SOCIAL WORKERS, SHE ADDED.
SHE LEARNED, FOR EXAMPLE, THAT THERE ARE ONLY TWO CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS IN THE WHOLE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT FOR ITS PROBATION SERVICE, FAMILY SERVICE UNITS, AS WELL AS A NUMBER OF INSTITUTIONS.
SHE ASKED FOR UNDERSTANDING OF THE DIFFICULTY FACED BY SUBVENTED HOSPITALS AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES WHICH LOSE STAFF TO GOVERNMENT AND OTHER AGENCIES WHICH CAN PROVIDE MORE HOUSING OR OTHER FRINGE BENEFITS, OR TO INSTITUTIONS IN MORE CENTRALLY LOCATED AREAS OR WITH LIGHTER PATIENT LOAD.
/>JSS BJNNETT......
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
11
MISS BENNETT IN PARTICULAR STRESSED THAT SUBVERTED HOSPITALS SHOULD HAVE THE SAME STAFF RATIOS AS GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS FOR THE SAME TYPE OF CLINICAL UNITS.
+WHEN IMPROVEMENTS AND ADJUSTMENTS ARE MADE IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS THEY SHOULD BE AUTOMATICALLY EXTENDED TO SUBVERTED HOSPITALS IR THE PUBLIC SECTOR,+ SHE SAID.
AT PRESENT, SHE EXPLAINED, WHEN THEY APPLY FOR PARITY OF TREATMENT THEY MAY OR MAY NOT RECEIVE IT.
SHE HOPED THEREFORE THAT IF THE CURRENT REQUEST BY THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT FOR SUPERVISORY STAFF AT CHIEF NURSING OFFICER AND SENIOR NURSING OFFICER RANKS IN THE NURSING EDUCATION UNIT IS ACCEPTED BY THE GOVERNMENT, SIMILAR STAFF SHOULD BE GRANTED IN SUBVERTED SCHOOLS OF NURSING.
SHE POINTED OUT THAT AT PRESENT ALL SCHOOLS OF NURSING ARE SERIOUSLY UNDERSTAFFED. THE GOVERNMENT STAFFING RATIO IS ONE NURSE TUTOR TO EVERY 40 NURSES IN TRAINING. IN BRITAIN, IT IS ONE TO 25.
SHE WARNED THAT THE QUICKEST WAY TO DOWNGRADE THE SUBVERTED HOSPITALS IR THE EYES OF THE PUBLIC IS FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO THINK THAT THEY NEED NOT HAVE THE SAME STAFFING SINCE THEY ARE REGIONAL HOSPITALS AND IF THEY CANNOT COPE THEY CAN SEND THEIR PATIENTS TO GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS.
+HOW WILL THEY ATTRACT GOOD DOCTORS IF THEY ARE TO BE CONFINED TO THE ROLE OF PROVIDING CONVALESCENT AND NON-SPECI AL 1ST BEDS. NATURALLY NOT EVERY HOSPITAL CAN PROVIDE ALL VARIETIES OF SPECIALIST TREATMENT. BUT IN EVERY DISTRICT WE NEED TO HAVE REGIONAL CENTRES FOR CERTAIN SPECIALITIES BASED ON THE ACUTE GENERAL HOSPITAL WHICH WILL BE RUN EITHER BY GOVERNMENT OR BY A VOLUNTARY BODY,+ SHE SAID.
SHE HOPED THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT AND THE FINANCE BRANCH WOULD EXAMINE THESE BASIC ISSUES AND UPGRADE MEDICAL PROVISION IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR, JUST AS THE EDUCATION SYSTEM HAD BEEN IMPROVED WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF SIMILAR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO ALL AIDED SCHOOLS THROUGH A UNIFIED CODE OF AID.
SHE PERSONALLY SUPPORTED THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY OF RELIANCE ON VOLUNTARY AGENCIES IN SUPPLEMENTING SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES, BECAUSE IT PROVIDES FLEXIBILITY AND INDIVIDUALITY AND ALLOWS FULL PARTICIPATION IN PUBLIC SERVICES TO A VAST NUMBER OF PHILANTHROPIC BODIES AND INDIVIDUALS. SHE FELT THERE SHOULD BE IMPROVEMENTS AND THE SUGGESTIONS SHE MADE ON THE HOSPITAL SCENE COULD BE APPLIED TO ALL OF OUR SOCIAL SERVICE INSTITUTIONS.
--------o ---------
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, I960
12
GET MORE VALUE OUT OF THE CIVIL SERVICE ******
THE NEED TO PROMOTE EFFICIENCY AND QUALITY IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE WAS STRESSED BY THE HON ALEX WU IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
HE SAID THAT +EVEN IN OUR PRESENTLY BUOYANT FINANCIAL SITUATION, WE MUST WATCH OUR DOLLARS AND CENTS*.
AS REGARDS EFFICIENCY, HE SAID HE ANTICIPATED SOME TANGIBLE RETURN ON THE HEAVY INCREASE - NEARLY 48 PER CENT - IN EXPENDITURE ON CIVIL SERVICE TRAINING AND FOR MANAGEMENT SERVICES, DATA PROCESSING AND VISITING ADVISORS.
MR WU PAID TRIBUTE TO THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S PROPOSALS, -.3 A STEP TOWARDS IMPROVED EFFICIENCY, TO DELEGATE AUTHORITY TO HEAuS CF DEPARTMENTS FOR THE CREATION OF CERTAIN POSTS.
+THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY HAS ASSURED US THAT THIS SHOULD NOT LEAD TO A MORE RAPID GROWTH OF THE CIVIL SERVICE.
+THAT GROWTH MIGHT BE FURTHER INHIBITED BY A STRICT EXAMINATION OF CIVIL SERVICE POSTS WHOSE FUNCTIONS HAVE CHANGED, DWINDLED OR EVEN ATROPHIED WITH PASSING YEARS.
+MORE FREEDOM FOR HEADS OF DEPARTMENT TO DEPLOY STAFF TO NEw DUTIES COULD USEFULLY GO HAND-IN-HAND WITH THE POWER TO CREATE OR NOT TO CREATE NEW POSTS,+ HE SAID.
TO OBTAIN VALUE FOR OUR MONEY, MR WU CONTINUED, +WE MUST WATCH THE QUALITY OF WHAT WE BUY OVER THE WHOLE RANGE OF PUBLIC EXPENDITURE, ESPECIALLY IN THE SOCIAL SERVICES AND MOST OF ALL IN EDUCATION.*
♦I HAVE REPEATEDLY DWELT ON THE WORD ’QUALITY’. I BELIEVE THAT AS WE ARE ENTERING A NEW DECADE, WITH RISING STANDARDS OF LIVING AND EXPECTATIONS, IT WILL NOT BE ENOUGH FOR US TO MEASURE AND PROGRESS BY QUANTITY ALONE.
+PRUDENT FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT DOES NOT CONFLICT IN ANY WAY WITH IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF EXISTING SERVICES OR EVEN INTRODUCING NEW SERVICES WHICH IN THEMSELVES CONTRIBUTE TO THE QUALITY OF LIFE.*
MR WU DREW ATTENTION TO +MAJOR SHIFTS IN EMPHASIS* IN THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S BUDGET.
THE PROPORTION OF EXPENDITURE ON SOCIAL SERVICES, HE SAID, <vAS UP BUT THE DIFFERENCE WAS ENTIRELY ACCOUNTED FOR BY THE COST OF THE HOUSING PROGRAMME.
EDUCATION, MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, SOCIAL WELFARE FOR NEXT YEAR ALL REPRESENT A SMALLER PROPORTION OF TOTAL EXPENDITURE THAN PREVIOUSLY.
*THESE FIGURES DO NOT NECESSARILY CONFLICT WITH THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S ASSURANCE THAT ALL PROGRAMMES ARE BEING SATISFACTORILY IMPLEMENTED.
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
13
♦WHILE THEY REPRESENT SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE IN REAL EXPENDITURE, THE SHIFTS OF EMPHASIS SHOULD NOT BE IGNORED,+ HE STRESSED.
IMPORTANT PUBLIC PROGRAMMES, SAID MR WU, WERE DETERMINED TO A LARGE EXTENT BY THE PROPOSALS MADE BY RESPONSIBLE DEPARTMENTS AND THE FATE OF THESE EXPENDITURE PROPOSALS LAID IN THE HANDS OF THE FINANCE BRANCH AND THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY.
HE CONSIDERED THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S YARDSTICK, THE MAINTENANCE OF EXISTING SERVICES AND THEIR EXPANSION TO MEET DEMAND AT PRESENT STANDARDS, A THOROUGHLY REASONABLE CONCEPT SO LONG AS ITS APPLICATION IS NOT ALLOWED TO STIFLE INITIATIVE OR TO DENY IMPROVED QUALITY.
HOWEVER HE SAID IT WOULD NOT BE UNHEALTHY FOR PEOPLE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAMMES WHICH WERE BEING DEVELOPED WITHIN OUR SOCIAL SERVICES DEPARTMENTS BUT WHICH HAD TO BE POSTPONED FOR FINANCIAL REASONS.
MR WU ALSO TOUCHED ON HIS ♦HOBBY-HORSE* - THE ENCOURAGEMENT OF ARTS.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THERE WAS A SUB-HEAD FOR THE PROMOTION OF SPORTS IN THIS YEAR'S ESTIMATES.
+IF THE CREATION OF THIS SUB-HEAD IS JUSTIFIED BY THE AMOUNT OF MONEY NOW BEING SPENT IN THIS DIRECTION THEN IT IS EQUALLY JUSTIFIABLE THAT WE SHOULD LOOK AT THE RATHER RAGGED SITUATION REGARDING THE PROMOTION OF THE ARTS.+
HE SUGGESTED THAT THE NEW RECREATION AND CULTURE DIVISION IN THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT SHOULD WORK TOWARDS GREATER COORDINATION OF EFFORT AND DIRECTION.
-----0------
PLEA FOR IMPROVEMENTS IN LESS OBVIOUS SOCIAL SERVICES *****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS DEMONSTRATED TIME AND AGAIN THAT ITS POLICY TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE, INCLUDING SOCIAL SERVICES, IS BEING PURSUED WITH VIGOUR AND DETERMINATION, BUT PUBLIC FRUSTRATION IS OFTEN THE RESULT OF MINOR INADVERTENCIES, THE HON PETER C. WONG SAID TODAY.
♦LET US NOT FORGET THAT WHILE SPECTACULAR ACHIEVEMENTS SUCH AS THE MTR AND OUR MASSIVE HOUSING PROGRAMME ARE LAUDABLE, WE MUST NOT LOSE SIGHT OF THE LESS TANGIBLE SOCIAL SERVICES, ANY DEFICIENCY OF WHICH MAY NOT IMMEDIATELY BE APPARENT.
♦IT IS PERHAPS IN THIS AREA THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD INCREASE ITS VIGILANCE,+ HE SAID.
MR WONG MADE THE REMARKS WHILE SPEAKING ON HIS TWO PREVIOUS PROPOSALS WHICH, HE CONTENDED, +THE GOVERNMENT HAS FAILED TO ADDRESS EXPEDITIOUSLY AND EFFECTIVELY*.
/HIS PROPOSALS..
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980 '
14
HIS PROPOSALS CONCERNED THE EARLY EXPANSION OF THE LEGAL ADVICE AND ASSISTANCE SCHEME AND AIR-CONDITIONING OF AMBULANCES.
ON THE FIRST PROPOSAL, MR WONG RECALLED HIS PLEA IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL LAST NOVEMBER FOR $6 MILLION TO RUN EIGHT LEGAL ADVICE BUREAUS AND OFFER LEGAL REPRESENTATION IN ALL THE EIGHT MAGISTRACIES IN HONG KONG, IN ORDER TO MEET THE EXPANSION ENVISAGED.
HE ALSO REFERRED TO THE GOVERNOR’S STATEMENT THAT THE QUESTION OF EXPANSION WOULD BE REVIEWED AT THE END OF 1979.
HOWEVER, HE SAID, HE HAD TO CONFESS HIS DISAPPOINTMENT WHEN HE NOTED THAT IN THIS YEAR’S DRAFT ESTIMATES ONLY $3.6 MILLION WAS PROPOSED FOR THIS SERVICE.
THE PROVISION WAS TO COVER THE COST OF RUNNING FIVE ADVICE BUREAUS AND OFFERING FREE LEGAL ASSISTANCE AT FOUR MAGISTRACIES -AN INCREASE OF TWO MORE ADVICE BUREAUS AND ONE MORE MAGISTRACY WITHIN THE SCHEME AS COMPARED WITH THIS YEAR'S TOTAL.
AS FOR LAST YEAR, ALTHOUGH THE APPROVED ESTIMATE PLUS SUPPLEMENTARY APPROPRIATIONS AMOUNTED TO $3.2 MILLION, ONLY $2.5 MILLION WAS ACTUALLY INCURRED, REPRESENTING A NET SAVING OF $700 000.
+THIS SAVING PLUS THE PROPOSED $3.6 MILLION FOR THE CURRENT YEAR AMOUNT TO $4.3 MILLION.
+ONLY $1.6 MILLION IS ALL THAT IS NEEDED TO MAKE UP THE SUM OF $6 MILLION WHICH, EVEN AT 1980 PRICES, WOULD PERMIT THE LAW SOCIETY TO RUN EIGHT LEGAL ADVICE BUREAUS AND OFFER FREE LEGAL REPRESENTATION IN ALL THE EIGHT MAGISTRACIES IN HONG KONG TO ALL PEOPLE ARRESTED AND CHARGED WITH SCHEDULED OFFENCES,* MR WONG SAID.
AS FAR AS FREE LEGAL REPRESENTATION IS CONCERNED, +THE CRUX OF THE MATTER IS THAT UNLESS ALL THE EIGHT MAGISTRACIES ARE COVERED BY THE SCHEME, THE GOVERNMENT WOULD FIND IT DIFFICULT TO COUNTER ALLEGATIONS OF DISCRIMINATION AND UNFAIR TREATMENT BY THOSE WHO ARE UNFORTUNATE ENOUGH TO BE CHARGED IN A MAGISTRACY WHERE FREE LEGAL REPRESENTATION IS NOT AVAILABLE.
+WE HAVE THE RESOURCES TO OFFER FREE LEGAL ASSISTANCE IN ALL THE EIGHT MAGISTRACIES AND I CAN SEE NO LOGICAL REASONS WHY THIS SHOULD NOT BE IMPLEMENTED FORTHWITH.
+THE URGENT NEED FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION CANNOT BE OVER-EMPHASISED AND I WOULD STRONGLY URGE THE GOVERNMENT TO REVISE THE ESTIMATE TO $6 MILLION,* HE SAID.
ON THE SUBJECT OF AIR-CONDITIONING OF AMBULANCES, MR WONG DREW ATTENTION TO THE PROVISION OF $9.75 MILLION IN THE ESTIMATES FOR THE PURCHASE OF 50 NEW AMBULANCES AND ANOTHER $60 000 FOR TWO AIR-CONDITIONING UNITS FOR AMBULANCES FOR TRIAL PURPOSES.
SINCE THE GOVERNMENT HAS ANTICIPATED POSSIBLE TECHNICAL COMPLICATIONS IN INSTALLING AIR-CONDITIONING UNITS IN EXISTING VEHICLES, MR WONG POINTED OUT THAT IT WOULD BE A *ASTE OF PUBLIC MONEY TO EMBARK ON A PROJECT THAT MAY PROVE TO BE COMPLICATED IF NOT UNSATISFACTORY.
/HE SUGGESTED:
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
15
HE SUGGESTED*
* EITHER TO PLACE ORDERS FOR ALL 50 AMBULANCES WITH FACTORY-BUILT AIR-CONDITIONING UNITS, OR
* PLACE ORDERS FOR TWO NEW AMBULANCES WITH FACTORY-BUILT AIR-CONDITIONING UNITS FOR TRIAL PURPOSES AND THE REST WITH FACTORY PROVISIONS FOR INSTALLATION OF AIR-CONDITIONING UNITS AT A LATER DATE.
THIS WOULD ENSURE THAT IF PROVED SATISFACTORY, AIR-CONDITIONING UNITS CAN BE INSTALLED IN THE REST OF THE NEW FLEET WITHOUT TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES OR COMPLICATIONS, HE SAID.
MR WONG URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO HAVE THE MATTER RE-EXAMINED URGENTLY.
+WE ARE DEALING WITH THE TRANSPORTATION OF THE SICK AND THE WOUNDED, DECISION MAKERS SHOULD NOT BE DICTATED MERELY BY COLD LOGIC,* HE SAID.
- - 0 - -
HOUSEHOLD SURVEY SHOULD HELP SHAPE TAXATION POLICY * It M M
THE HON ANDREW SO SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT CONDUCT A ♦FAMILY BUDGET SURVEY* THROUGH THE CITY DISTRICT OFFICES TO HELP DETERMINE TAX ALLOWANCES AND OTHER SIMILAR POLICIES.
+SUCCESS OF SUCH A SURVEY DEPENDS ON PUBLICITY, EDUCATION AND THE ASSISTANCE OF VOLUNTARY AGENCIES CLOSE TO THE PUBLIC, UNIVERSITIES AND RESEARCH INSTITUTES.
+RESPONDENTS SHOULD BE MADE TO UNDERSTAND THE AIM IS TO ALLEVIATE THEIR FINANCIAL BURDEN.*
IT IS ALSO A WAY OF GATHERING PUBLIC OPINION AND ASCERTAINING PUBLIC FEELINGS, HE ADDED.
ON PROPOSED INCREASE IN PERSONAL ALLOWANCE, MR SO SAID ALTHOUGH THE SCOPE OF THE ADJUSTMENTS IN PERSONAL ALLOWANCES WAS TOO SMALL TO MAKE UP FOR CONSUMER PRICE INCREASES, ♦TAXATION IN HONG KONG IS LOW IN GENERAL AND THIS, COUPLED WITH THE ADJUSTMENTS IN QUESTION, MAKES THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S PROPOSALS ACCEPTABLE.*
BUT HE THOUGHT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD REVIEW THE LEVEL OF PERSONAL TAXATION EVERY NOW AND THEN.
AS REGARDS CHILD ALLOWANCE, MR SO DISMISSED THE IDEA OF LIMITING SUCH ALLOWANCES AS A DEVICE TO IMPOSE BIRTH CONTROL, THAT IS BY PROVIDING NO ALLOWANCES FOR THE THIRD AND SUBSEQUENT CHILDREN.
/.VHUe agreeing
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 198c
16
WHILE AGREEING THAT IT IS NECESSARY TO PROMOTE RESPONSIBLE FAMILY PLANNING, HE MA'NTAINEDTHATTHISSHOULOBEACHEVE^ THROUGH PUBLICITY AND EDUCATION RATHER THAN BY +D IS INCENTIVt + OR OTHER RESTRICTIVE MEASURES.
+AlL MARRIED COUPLES SHOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE AND DECIDE ON THEIR OWN FAMILY PLANNING WITHOUT INTERFERENCE FROM THE GOVERNMENT OR ANYBODY,+ HE SAID.
-----0------
LAND POLICY MUST BE COMPATIBLE WITH INDUSTRIAL DIVERSIFICATION *****
THERE IS A PRESSING NEED FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO REVIEW ITS INDUSTRIAL LAND POLICY AND TO MAKE FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES TO THE BASIC CONCEPT OF INDUSTRIAL LAND ALLOCATION.
THIS WAS ADVOCATED BY THE HON WONG PO-YAN AT TODAY’S RESUMED BUDGET DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
AS HONG KONG’S ECONOMY IS EXPORT-ORIENTED, EVERY EFFORT MUST BE MADE TO DIVERSIFY BOTH ITS PRODUCTS AND MARKETS. +THE GOVERNMENT MUST THEREFORE BE VERY CAREFUL WITH ITS INDUSTRIAL LAND POLICY TO ENSURE THAT IT IS COMPATIBLE WITH INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AND DIVERSIFICATION,* HE SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT UNDER THE PRESENT SYSTEM, THE MAJORITY OF NEW INDUSTRIAL LOTS ARE ALLOCATED TO USERS THROUGH PUBLIC AUCTION.
♦INDUSTRIALISTS - THE GENUINE USERS OF INDUSTRIAL LAND AND THE DIRECT CONTRIBUTORS TO HONG KONG’S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT -CONSTANTLY FALL PREY TO LAND SPECULATORS AND THOSE DEVELOPERS WHO ARE MOTIVATED ONLY BY PROFIT.
♦THIS APPLIES PARTICULARLY TO SMALL MANUFACTURERS WHO ARE MORE OFTEN THAN NOT DRIVEN OUT OF THE MARKET BY THE UNREALISTICALLY HIGH PRICES QUOTED AT PUBLIC LAND AUCTIONS,+ HE SAID.
HE REITERATED HIS EARLIER PLEA FOR THE SETTING UP OF A ♦FACTORY OWNERSHIP SCHEME+ WHEREBY SMALL MANUFACTURERS CAN FORM COOPERATIVES TO BID INDUSTRIAL LAND AT FAIR MARKET VALUE DIRECT FROM THE GOVERNMENT.
HE ALSO URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO ANNOUNCE ITS PRESENT THINKING ON THIS SUBJECT.
ANOTHER ASPECT OF THE INDUSTRIAL SECTOR THAT CAUSED +GRAVE CONCERN+ TO MR WONG WAS THE DRASTIC INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS.
/HE SAID ...
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
17
HE SAID HE WAS CONCERNED +NOT JUST BECAUSE PRODUCTIVITY IS LOST BUT MUCH MORE IMPORTANTLY, BECAUSE MANY WORKERS’ LIVES HAVE BEEN LOST.*
THERE WERE 45 991 INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS IN 1979 AS COMPARED WITH 39 242 IN 1978 AND 37 073 IN 1977. THE NUMBER OF FATAL INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS ALSO INCREASED FROM 136 IN 1977 AND 141 IN 1978 TO 163 IN 1979. AS FOR THE FIRST TWO MONTHS OF THIS YEAR, ABOUT 7 500 INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS HAVE ALREADY OCCURRED, REPRESENTING AN AVERAGE OF MORE THAN 120 A DAY.
+1 FEEL THAT THE SITUATION CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION FROM ALL THE PARTIES CONCERNED - THE GOVERNMENT, EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES,+ MR WONG STRESSED.
HE PROPOSED THAT AS IMMEDIATE STEPS 1
X WORKERS SHOULD BE TAUGHT HOW TO AVOID ACCIDENTS BEFORE THEY ARE TAUGHT HOW TO HANDLE THEIR JOBS,
* THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD LAUNCH VIGOROUS PUBLICITY CAMPAIGNS BY ORGANISING MORE SEMINARS AND PUBLICITY ACTIVITIES, SUCH AS SAFETY WEEKS AND EXHIBITIONS, AT A LOCAL LEVEL IN TSUEN WAN, ABERDEEN, CHAI WAN, KWUN TONG AND TSI NG Yl.
THE LONG-TERM SOLUTION, MR WONG ADDED, MUST LIE IN EDUCATION.
+SINCE AN INCREASING PERCENTAGE OF OUR LABOUR FORCE ARE SECONDARY SCHOOL LEAVERS, MAYBE WE SHOULD INTRODUCE INTO OUR SECONDARY SCHOOL CURRICULUM SOME BASIC CONCEPTS OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY.
+THIS CONCEPT MUST BE STRESSED IN COURSES PROVIDED BY THE POLYTECHNIC AND OTHER PRE-VOCATIONAL TRAINING SCHOOLS.+
POINTING TO THE HIGH RATE OF GROWTH IN PUBLIC EXPENDITURE, MR WONG HOPED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD IMPROVE ITS INTERNAL FINANCIAL AND MANAGEMENT MONITORING SYSTEM SO AS TO MAXIMISE OUTPUT FROM THE EXPENDITURE.
HE QUOTED STATISTICS TO SHOW THAT 41 PER CENT OF EXPENDITURE IS USED FOR CAPITAL PROJECTS, MANY OF WHICH ARE ESSENTIAL AND BADLY NEEDED, SUCH AS THE EAST ISLAND CORRIDOR PROJECT AND PROJECTS ON SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES.
BUT HE REMINDED GOVERNMENT PLANNERS THAT IN PROVIDING INFRASTRUCTURAL FACILITIES, THEY SHOULD AIM AT REASONABLE QUALITY AND MODERATE STANDARDS AT THE MOST ECONOMICAL COSTS.
+GOVERNMENT MUST REMEMBER THAT THERE IS STILL A LONG LIST OF SOCIAL COMMITMENTS THAT MUST BE MET, SO PUBLIC FUNDS MUST BE USED VERY CAREFULLY AND SELECTIVELY,* HE SAID.
/is
_____0------
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
18
CALL FOR CENTRALISED TRAINING SCHEME
*****
A CENTRALISED TRAINING SCHEME SHOULD BE INTRODUCED TO PROVIDE TRAINED MANPOWER — ONE OF HONG KONG’S MOST IMPORTANT ASSETS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE HON ALLEN LEE WHO SAID THE DEMAND FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECTS IS EVIDENCED IN THE FINDINGS OF THE MANPOWER SURVEYS CONDUCTED BY THE TRAINING COUNCIL.
+AS FAR BACK AS MARCH 1978, THE HONG KONG TRAINING COUNCIL HAD PROPOSED TO GOVERNMENT THE URGENT INTRODUCTION OF A CENTRALISED TRAINING SCHEME AND WE ARE STILL WAITING FOR IT TO MATERIALISE.
+RECENTLY THE REPORT OF THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON DIVERSIFICATION EMPHASISED AGAIN THAT SUCH A SCHEME IS ESSENTIAL.*
NOTING THAT HONG KONG’S FUTURE DEPENDS ON ITS ABILITY TO MANUFACTURE, MR LEE SAID PRESSURE FROM THE INDUSTRIALISED COUNTRIES TO RESTRICT TRADE WOULD CONTINUE.
TO COMBAT THIS TREND, HE SAID, *WE ARE IN URGENT NEED TO BROADEN OUR PRODUCTS AND EXPAND OUR MARKETS*.
MOREOVER, THERE IS NO GUARANTEE OTHER PRODUCTS SUCH AS PLASTICS AND ELECTRONICS WILL NOT BE SUBJECT TO TRADE RESTRICTIONS IN THE FUTURE.
+FOR THE SAKE OF THE FUTURE OF INDUSTRY AND OF HONG KONG’S ECONOMY, I URGE THE GOVERNMENT NOT TO PROCRASTINATE ANY LONGER AND GIVE THE TRAINING COUNCIL THE GREEN LIGHT TO IMPLEMENT ITS RECOMMMENDATION,* HE SAID.
ON TECHNICAL EDUCATION, MR LEE SAID HE WAS ESPECIALLY DISAPPOINTED TO LEARN THAT A LARGE NUMBER OF PLANNED PLACES FOR THE 1979-80 ACADEMIC YEAR WAS NOT FILLED DUE'TO DIFFICULTIES IN RECRUITING TEACHING STAFF.
THIS MEANS, HE CONTINUED, THE GOVERNMENT HAS DEPRIVED 1 100 FULL-TIME AND 2 900 PART-TIME STUDENTS OF THE CHANCE TO RECEIVE TECHNICAL EDUCATION.
IN VIEW OF THE IMPORTANCE OF DIVERSIFYING OUR INDUSTRY AND THE TREMENDOUS SHORTAGE OF TECHNICAL PERSONNEL, HE ASKED WHETHER THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION WOULD GIVE AN ASSURANCE THAT THE PLANNED PLACE OF FULL-TIME AMD PART-TIME DAY COURSES IN 1980-81 WOULD BE I^T.
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/19......
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
19
HEALTH CARE EXHIBITION OPENS
* * * *
A CHILD NEEDS TO BE HEALTHY IN ORDER TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DEVELOP HIS POTENTIALS AND TO LIVE A FULL ADULT LIFE.
THIS WAS STATED BY LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MR ROGER LOBO, AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE HEALTHY NEW GENERATION EXHIBITION ORGANISED BY THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT AT CITY HALL THIS MORNING.
HE STRESSED THAT THE EARLY YEARS OF CHILDHOOD WERE OF CRUCIAL IMPORTANCE AS THE BASIS OF HEALTH, AND THE FOUNDATION OF GOOD HEALTH CAME FROM GOOD HEALTH HABITS WHICH WERE LAID DOWN IN THE FAMILY AND IN SCHOOLS THROUGH HEALTH EDUCATION.
MR LOBO SAID PROVISION OF SERVICES WAS ALSO IMPORTANT IN IMPROVING THE HEALTH OF CHILDREN. HOWEVER, HE SAID PROVISION OF EVEN THE WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED HEALTH FACILITIES WOULD NOT HELP IF PEOPLE DID NOT MAKE THEIR OWN EFFORTS TO ACHIEVE HEALTH.
HE POINTED OUT THAT PRENATAL CARE, EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF PRENATAL COMPLICATIONS AND OTHER PREVENTIVE MEASURES CAN CONTRIBUTE TO THE SAFE DELIVERY OF A NORMAL HEALTHY CHILD.
+ IN FACT, THIS AS I UNDERSTAND, IS ONE OF THE AIMS OF THE FAMILY HEALTH SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT. +
IN HIS OPENING ADDRESS EARLIER, THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, DR K.L. THONG, POINTED OUT THAT THE HEALTH STATUS OF HONG KONG CHILDREN IS AMONG THE BEST IN THE WORLD.
OVER THE PAST 25 YEARS THERE HAS BEEN A DRAMATIC DROP OF THE INFANT MORTALITY RATE FROM 73.6 PER THOUSAND LIVE BIRTHS TO 11.8, HE SAID.
AMONG THE FACTORS LEADING TO THIS REMARKABLE RESULT IS THE OUTCOME OF YEARS OF HARD WORK IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PREVENTIVE HEALTH SERVICES THROUGH THE PROVISION OF EASILY ACCESSIBLE PRIMARY HEALTH CARE AND OBSTETRIC AND PAEDIATRIC MEDICAL CARE, SAID DR THONG.
HE SAID MANY NEW PROGRAMMES WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON HEALTH PROMOTION HAVE BEEN REALISED IN RECENT YEARS, INCLUDING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF MANY PROGRAMMES SUCH AS RESTRUCTURING OF THE FAMILY HEALTH SERVICE WITH FAMILY PLANNING INTEGRATED, THE INTRODUCTION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE OBSERVATION SCHEME AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CENTRAL HEALTH EDUCATION UNIT. +ALL THESE SERVICES AIM AT IMPROVING THE HEALTH OF THE MOTHER AND THE CHILD,+ HE SAID.
+THE OBJECTIVE OF THIS EXHIBITION IS, THEREFORE, TO IMPROVE THE PARENT’S UNDERSTANDING OF THE KIND OF SELF-CARE AND BABYREARING KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE WHICH WOULD ENSURE A HEALTHY CHILD,* DR THONG ADDED.
DURING THE CEREMONY, MRS LOBO PRESENTED PRIZES TO THE WINNERS OF THE CHILDREN SAFETY POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION.
/VISITORS TO ...
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
20
VISITORS TO THE EXHIBITION MAY OBTAIN A FREE BOOKLET ON HEALTH HINTS AND SEEK FAMILY PLANNING ADVICE AND THEIR CHILDREN UNDER FIVE MAY ALSO UNDERGO SCREENING TEST.
THE EXHIBITION IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC TILL SUNDAY (MARCH 30) FROM 10 AM TO 6 PM DAILY.
NOTE TO EDITORS!
GOVERNOR TO LAUNCH SALVATION ARMY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS *****
THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE +SALVATION ARMY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS LAUNCHING CEREMONY+ ON SATURDAY (MARCH 29) AT 11 AM IN THE MAIN CONCOURSE OF THE OCEAN TERMINAL.
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE EVENT.
- - 0 - -
NOTE TO ED ITORSi
SNT TO OPEN CLUBHOUSE FOR SCOUTS * * * *
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING OF A $460 000 CLUBHOUSE FOR THE BOY SCOUT ASSOCIATION YUEN LONG (EAST) AT AU TAU ON SATURDAY (MARCH 29).
MR AKERS-JONES WILL MAKE A SHORT SPEECH AND UNVEIL A PLAQUE. MR P.G. WILLIAMS, CHAIRMAN OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB, WHICH HAS DONATED $200 000 TOWARDS THE COST OF THE CLUBHOUSE, WILL PERFORM THE +DOOR OPENING+ CEREMONY.
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND MEMBERS OF YOUR STAFF TO COVER THE EVENT. A GOVERNMENT VEHICLE (AM 3214) WILL LEAVE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER AT 9.45 AM SHARP.
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
21
IRD’S KOWLOON SUB-OFFICE TO OPERATE IN NEW PREMISES
* * * * *
THE KOWLOON SUB-OFFICE OF THE INLAND REVENUE DEPARTMENT WILL OPERATE FROM ITS NEW OFFICE IN PARK-IN COMMERICAL CENTRE, 12TH FLOOR 56 DUNDAS STREET, MONG KOK NEXT TUESDAY (APRIL 1).
THE MOVE FROM THE EXISTING OFFICE IN THE ’OLD’ HONG KONG AND SHANGHAI BANK BUILDING IN NATHAN ROAD WILL TAKE PLACE OVER THE WEEKEND.
FROM NEXT TUESDAY, THE TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR GENERAL ENQUIRIES IN THE SUB-OFFICE WILL BE 3-841158.
THE SUB-OFFICE COLLECTS TAXES ASSESSED UNDER THE INLAND REVENUE ORDINANCE EXCEPT PROPERTY TAX. IT ALSO COLLECTS HOTEL ACCOMMODATION TAX AND ISSUES TAX RESERVE CERTIFICATES.
IN ADDITION IT SERVES AS A BUSINESS REGISTRATION AND STAMP DUTY SUB-OFFICE, AND AS A BASE FOR TAX INSPECTORS.
THE SUB-OFFICE IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FROM 9 AM TO 4 PM DURING WEEKDAYS, AND FROM 9 AM TO 11.30 AM ON SATURDAY.
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TECHNICAL INSTITUTE TO HOLD OPEN DAY X X X X X
VISITORS TO THE KWUN TONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE OPEN DAY TOMORROW (FRIDAY) WILL HAVE A CHANCE TO SEE STUDENTS AT WORK IN WORKSHOPS AND LABORATORIES.
THE INSTITUTE WILL OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FROM 10 AM TO 12.30 PM, AND FROM 2 PM TO 4.30 PM TOMORROW.
AT PRESENT THERE ARE 3 800 STUDENTS ATTENDING VARIOUS FULL-TIME, PART-TIME DAY-RELEASE AND EVENING COURSES RUN BY THE FIVE TEACHING DEPARTMENTS OF THE INSTITUTE, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID.
SHORT COURSES ARE ALSO IN SESSION TO UP-DATE THE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL OF CRAFTSMEN AND TECHNICIANS IN INDUSTRY.
THE FIVE TEACHING DEPARTMENTS ARE CLOTHING INDUSTRIES, ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING, MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, PRINTING AND TEXTILE INDUSTRIES.
COURSES OPERATED AT BOTH TECHNICIAN AND CRAFT LEVELS ARE DEVELOPED AND CONSTANTLY REVIE»ED TO CATER FOR THE NEEDS OF THE LOCAL INDUSTRIES, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
/«BO’JT 1J0...
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
22 -
ABOUT 130 FULL-TIME AND 137 PART-TIME TEACHING AND GENERAL STAFF ARE EMPLOYED BY THE INSTITUTE.
NOTE TO ED I TORSi
YOU ARE WELCOME TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE OPEN DAY OF KWUN TONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE TOMORROW (MARCH 28). THE INSTITUTE IS LOCATED AT 25 HIU MING STREET, KWUN TONG,
KOWLOON.
YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICER OPENS CHILDREN'S ARTS EXHIBITION
* * * X
YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICER,, MR FUNG KWOK-KEUNG, TODAY (THURSDAY) URGED YUEN LONG RESIDENTS TO FURTHER EXPAND AND SUPPORT CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT.
MR FUNG WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF A CHILDREN’S ARTS EXHIBITION, ENTITLED +THEIR JOYFUL MOMENTS*, IN THE YUEN LONG TOWN HALL.
HE PRAISED STUDENTS FROM 20 LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOLS FOR THEIR EXCELLENT WORK SELECTED FOR DISPLAY.
A TOTAL OF 160 EXHIBITS WERE CHOSEN FROM MORE THAN 2 000 ENTRIES BY PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS THROUGHOUT HONG KONG FOR THE 1979 HONG KONG CHILDREN’S ARTS EXHIBITION, JOINTLY ORGANISED LAST YEAR BY THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG CHILDREN’S ARTS EXHIBITIONS.
A FURTHER 60 EXHIBITS WERE SKETCHES BY YOUNG ARTISTS WHO TOOK PART IN A SKETCHING ACTIVITIES PROGRAMME AT THE OCEAN PARK LAST NOVEMBER.
THE 220 EXHIBITS WERE FIRST DISPLAYED AT THE HONG KONG MUSEUM OF ART IN THE CITY HALL IN JANUARY.
MORE THAN 30 000 LOCAL STUDENTS AND RESIDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND THE FOUR-DAY EXHIBITION.
TODAY’S OPENING WAS ALSO ATTENDED BY MR NATHAN MA NING-HEI, CHAR IMAN OF THE ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG CHILDREN’S ARTS EXHIBITIONS, WHICH IS RESPONSIBLE FOR BRINGING THE EXHIBITION TO YUEN LONG.
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/23
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1980
- 23
AMS ANNUAL DINNER ft ft ft ft
THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICE WILL HOLD ITS ANNUAL DINNER AT THE WORLD TRADE CENTRE IN CAUSEWAY BAY ON SATURDAY (MARCH 29).
ABOUT 1 000 AMS STAFF AND A NUMBER OF DISTINGUISHED GUESTS, INCLUDING SIR SHIU-KIN TANG AND LADY TANG, WILL ATTEND THE DINNER
THE DIRECTOR OF -MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, DR K.L. THONG IN HIS CAPACITY AS AMS UNIT CONTROLLER WILL PRESENT CIVIL DEFENCE LONG SERVICE CLASPS TO 41 LONG SERVING MEMBERS.
NOTE TO EDITORSi
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER TO COVER THE AMS ANNUAL DINNER IN THE MAXIM’S PALACE RESTAURANT, WORLD TRADE CENTRE AT 8 PM ON SATURDAY (MARCH 29).
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URBAN CLEARWAYS IN WAN CHAI ft ft ft ft
THE URBAN CLEARWAY HOURS AT YIU WA STREET AND A SECTION OF MATHESON STREET FROM HOUSE NO 11 TO ITS JUNCTION WITH LEIGHTON ROAD IN WAN CHAI WILL BE REVISED FROM 10 AM ON'SATURDAY (MARCH 29).
FROM SUNDAY VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM PICKING UP OR SETTING DOWN PASSENGERS AND LOADING CR UNLOADING OF GOODS FROM 7 AM TO 10 AM AND FROM 4 PM TO 7 PM DAILY IN THE TWO CLEARWAY ZONES.
THE EXISTING 7 AM TO 7 PM CLEARWAY RESTRICTION IN THE TWO STREETS WILL BE RESCINDED FROM THAT DAY.
- - o - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE OPENS ............................. 1
FOUR LOCAL OFFICERS RECEIVE QUEEN'S GALLANTRY A.JARDS .2
AGRICULTURE LAND DOWN - FOOD PRODUCTION UP ........... 4
PRISONS DEPARTMENT TO OPEN ANOTHER WOMEN'S CENTRE .... 5
TSING YI VILLAGES TC MAKE WAY FOR DEVELOPMENT ........ 7
SAI KUNG TO GET IMPROVED WATER SUPPLY ................ 8
GRAVE-SWEEPERS WARNED OF SWINDLERS ................... 9
CHEMOTHERAPY SHORTENS TREATMENT PERIOD .............. 10
SPECIAL TRalNS FOR CHING HING FESTIVAL............... 11
EARLY PAYMENT TO SOCIAL SECURITY RECIPIENTS ......... 11
LAND SALE RESULTS ................................... 12
SEMINAR FCR SCHOOL HEaDS ............................ 12
DSW TO OPEN TRAINING CENTRE FOR RETARDED CHILDREN ... 1J
RE-ROUTING CF KuWLOON MaXICaB ROUTE 1} .............. 1J
HGLIDnY PCSTjiL ARRANGEMENTS ........................ 14
TEMPORARY CLOSURE CF SLIP ROaD IN MID-LEVELS ........ 1A
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
1
AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE OPENS ******
SIR YUET-KEUNG KAN, SENIOR UNOFFICIAL MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, TODAY (FRIDAY) OPENED THE S60 MILLION AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE, THE FIRST TO LINK HONG KONG ISLAND WITH AN OFFSHORE ISLAND.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, SIR YUET-KEUNG SAID THAT THE BRIDGE WOULD, INEVITABLY, BRING ABOUT RADICAL CHANGES TO AP LEI CHAU.
♦ADDITIONAL LAND IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR DEVELOPMENT, WHICH HAS BEEN THE SUBJECT OF RECENT PUBLIC INTEREST AND DEBATE,♦ HE SAID.
♦ALREADY, THE HOUSING AUTHORITY, DESPITE GEOGRAPHICAL CONSTRAINTS, IS BUILDING A NEW HOUSING ESTATE IN AP LEI CHAU. THE INITIAL PHASE, WHICH HAS JUST BEEN COMPLETED, WILL HOUSE 9 000 RESIDENTS, OUT OF A TOTAL OF 19 000 RESIDENTS WHEN THE WHOLE ESTATE IS COMPLETED.+
SIR YUET-KEUNG SAID HE COULD ENVISAGE THAT WITH THE OPENING OF THE BRIDGE, MORE RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT WOULD BE TAKING PLACE IN AP LEI CHAU AND THIS WOULD GRADUALLY TRANSFORM THE ISLAND INTO A MODERN TOWNSHIP.
HE DESCRIBED THE PROJECT AS UNIQUE IN THAT IT LINKED HONG KONG ISLAND WITH ONE OF ITS OFFSHORE ISLANDS.
♦TOGETHER WITH THE NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN APPROACH ROADS AND THE INTERCHANGE AT WONG CHUK HANG ROAD, IT PROVIDES ROAD TRANSPORT TO AP LEI CHAU,+ HE SAID.
♦WHEN THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL PROJECT IS COMPLETED IN THE MIDDLE OF NEXT YEAR, THERE WILL BE A FAST, DIRECT ROAD LINK FROM AP LEI CHAU TO THE NORTHERN PART OF HONG KONG VIA THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL, AND THENCE THROUGH THE CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL TO KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES. THE TRIP FROM AP LEI CHAU TO KOWLOON WOULD TAKE LESS THAN 20 MINUTES.+
AP LEI CHAU RESIDENTS, HE ADDED, WOULD NOW BE ABLE TO BENEFIT FULLY FROM THE PROVISION OF THIS BRIDGE.
THEY COULD WALK SAFELY ACROSS THE BRIDGE ON THE FOOTWAY INCORPORATED, AND MIGHT AT THE SAME TIME ENJOY THE SCENIC VIEW ON BOTH SIDES.
SIR YUET-KEUNG SAID THAT A BUS TERMINUS HAD ALREADY BEEN BUILT ADJACENT TO THE PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE AND HE EXPRESSED THE HOPE THAT WITH THE COMPLETION OF THE BRIDGE A BUS SERVICE WOULD SOON BE INTRODUCED TO SERVE RESIDENTS IN AP LEI CHAU.
♦IT WAS NOT AN EASY TASK TO BUILD A BRIDGE TO SPAN OVER A BUSY NAVIGATION CHANNEL AND TO CONSTRUCT A ROAD IN DIFFICULT AND HILLY GROUND CONDITIONS ON AP LEI CHAU.+ HE SAID.
♦DESPITE THIS, THE BRIDGE AND THE ACCESS ROAD SYSTEM HAVE BEEN COMPLETED IN GOOD TIME FOR THE OCCUPATION OF THE NEW HOUSING BLOCKS ON THE ISLAND.+
/EARLIER, ......
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
2
EARLIER, MR DAVID MCDONALD, IN HIS WELCOMING SPEECH THAT THE BRIDGE PLAYED A SIGNIFICANT PART
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS, SAID CONSTRUCTION OF THE AP LEI CHAU IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ISLAND.
DIRECT ROAD LINK TO SERVE THE WILL ALSO ENHANCE OPPORTUNITIES AL AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS
+IT WILL NOT ONLY PROVIDE A PEOPLE LIVING IN AP LEI CHAU BUT FOR FURTHER RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCI IN THE AREA,+ HE SAID.
THE PROJECT HAS TAKEN ABOUT TWO AND HALF YEARS TO COMPLETE. THE MAIN BRIDGE OVER ABERDEEN CHANNEL COMPRISES A 115 METRE-LONG CENTRAL SPAN FLANKED -BY TWO 57.5 METRE-LONG SIDE SPANS. ITS SUPERSTRUCTURE IS OF PRESTRESSED CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION FORMED INSITU USING THE BALANCED CANTILEVER TECHNIQUE.
THE BRIDGE ALSO CARRIES A LARGE WATER MAIN AND OTHER ESSENTIAL SERVICES TO SERVE THE POPULATION IN AP LEI CHAU.
0
FOUR LOCAL OFFICERS RECEIVE QUEEN’S GALLANTRY AWARDS * ft ft * ft ft
THREE AUXILIARY POLICE CONSTABLES AND A CUSTOMS OFFICER HAVE BEEN HONOURED BY THE QUEEN FOR THE BRAVERY THEY DISPLAYED IN THE COURSE OF THEIR DUTIES.
AUXILIARY POLICE CONSTABLES CHAN KWAN-FAI AND TUNG CHI-KAN WERE AWARDED THE QUEEN’S GALLANTRY MEDAL. WHILE AUXILIARY POLICE CONSTABLE LEUNG KAM-CHU AND CUSTOMS OFFICER WOO KIN-LEUNG WERE GIVEN THE QUEEN'S COMMENDATION FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. THE AWARDS WERE PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY.
THE THREE AUXILIARY POLICEMEN ARE FIRST PART-TIME POLICE OFFICERS TO RECEIVE THE QUEEN’S AWARDS.
THE THREE AUXILIARY POLICEMEN, ALL MEMBERS OF WEST KOWLOON SPECIAL DUTY COMPANY, WERE INFORMED OF THEIR AWARDS IN LETTERS FROM THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE. THE LETTERS WERE PRESENTED TO THEM BY THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, MR ROY HENRY IN A CEREMONY YESTERDAY (THURSDAY).
THEY ALL DISPLAYED BRAVERY DURING A DRAMATIC POLICE CHASE IN JUNE LAST YEAR AFTER THREE ARMED MEN FLED THEIR VEHICLE AT A ROAD BLOCK IN KIMBERLEY ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI.
PC CHAN SA IDs +WE WERE MAKING A ROUTINE CHECK OF A SUSPICIOUS VAN WHICH HAD NO LICENCE PLATE AND WE BELIEVED IT MIGHT BE A STOLEN CAR; PC LEUNG THEN REMOVED THE IGNITION KEY OF THE CAR, TRYING TO DETAIN THE VEHICLE AND THE THREE PERSONS INSIDE.
♦NOTICING OUR ACTION, THE THREE MEN JUMPED OUT OF THE VAN AND TWO OF THEM PRODUCED GUNS AND OPENED FIRE.+
PC CHAN WAS HIT IN THE LEFT ELBOW AND PC LEUNG MIRACULOUSLY ESCAPED INJURY WHEN A BULLET WAS DEFLECTED BY HIS BELT BUCKLE. +1 FELT AS IF I HAD BEEN PUNCHED IN THE STOMACH,♦ PC LEUNG SAID.
/THE 'THREE........
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
THE THREE MEN RAN ALONG KIMBERLEY ROAD TOWARDS AUSTIN AVENUE, WITH PCS TUNG AND CHAN IN HOT PURSUIT. CHAN WAS BLEEDING FROM HIS ELBOW WOUND.
THE THREE MEN THEN BOARDED A TAX I IN AUSTIN ROAD AND THE TWO CHASING POLICEMEN ALSO GOT INTO A TAXI TO FOLLOW. SHOTS WERE EXCHANGED DURING THE CHASE.
AT THIS MOMENT, PC LEUNG ARRIVED AND JOINED IN THE CHASE DURING WHICH HE ALSO OPENED FIRE.
THOUGH THE THREE WANTED MEN MADE GOOD THEIR ESCAPE ON THAT DAY, THEY WERE SUBSEQUENTLY ARRESTED IN CONNECTION WITH OTHER OFFENCES.
IN HIS LETTER TO PC CHAN, THE GOVERNOR SAIDi +YOUR COMPLETE DISREGARD FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AND DETERMINATION IN PURSUING CRIMINALS WHEN YOU WERE ALREADY WOUNDED WERE IN THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE.*
TO PC LEUNG, THE GOVERNOR SAIDi ^ALTHOUGH STRUCK BY A BULLET YOU DISPLAYED A HIGH DEGREE OF COURAGE AND DETERMINATION IN RETURNING FIRE AND PURSUING THE CRIMINALS.*
THE GOVERNOR’S LETTER TO PC TUNG SAIDi +YOUR COMPLETE DISREGARD FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AND YOUR DETERMINATION IN PURSUING THE CRIMINALS WHEN YOU WERE UNDER FIRE WERE IN THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE. I CONGRATULATE YOU MOST WARMLY ON A WELL DESERVED
AWARD.*
CUSTOMS OFFICER WOO KIN-LEUNG OF THE INVESTIGATION BUREAU OF THE TRADE, INDUSTRY AND CUSTOMS DEPARTMENT, WAS AWARDED THE QUEEN’S COMMENDATION FOR BRAVE CONDUCT FOR THE GALLANTRY HE DISPLAYED IN AN ATTEMPTED ARMED ROBBERY IN MONG KOK IN NOVEMBER LAST
FOILING YEAR.
MR WOO, WHO WAS OFF DUTY AND IN CIVILIAN CLOTHES AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT, WAS VISITING A FRIEND AT A RADIO SHOP IN ARGYLE STREET, MONG KOK. AS HE WAS ABOUT TO ENTER, HE WAS CONFRONTED BY A MAN WITH A KNIFE WHO IGNORED MR WOO’S CALL TO STOP AND STRUCK AT HIM, SLASHING MR WOO'S JACKET.
MR WOO THEN DREW HIS REVOLVER AND AGAIN ORDERED THE MAN TO STOP. WHEN HE WAS AGAIN ATTACKED MR WOO OPENED FIRE, INJURED THE MAN IN THE LEFT ANKLE.
MR WOO THEN ENTERED THE SHOP AND FOUND TWO MORE ROBBERS INSIDE, BOTH ARMED WITH KNIVES. THE TWO MEN DISREGARDED THE COMMAND TO SURRENDER AND ATTACKED MR WOO, WHO OPENED FIRE, KILLING ONE AND INJURING THE OTHER.
THE TWO INJURED ROBBERS WERE SUBSEQUENTLY SENTENCED, ONE TO 7-1/2 YEARS AND THE OTHER TO 5-1/2 YEARS IMPRISONMENT. MR WOO WAS PRAISED IN COURT BY MR JUSTICE O’CONNOR FOR HIS PROPER ACTION AND GREAT PRESENCE OF MIND IN THE DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES.
MR WOO WAS ALSO INFORMED OF HIS AWARD IN A LETTER FROM THE GOVERNOR, WHICH WAS PRESENTED TO HIM BY COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS AND CONTROLS, MR DOUGLAS JORDAN YESTERDAY.
/KR JORDAN....
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
4
MR JORDAN SA ID1 +ON THE GOVERNOR’S RECOMMENDATION, HER MAJESTY HAS SEEN FIT TO COMMEND YOUR BRAVERY IN DEALING WITH A VIOLENT FELONY WHICH MIGHT OTHERWISE HAVE INVOLVED INNOCENT PEOPLE IN INJURY OR WORSE.
♦YOUR RAPID REACTION TO WHAT WAS TAKING PLACE AND YOUR DETERMINED ACTION DEFEATED THE CRIMINALS CONCERNED. YOUR CONDUCT EXEMPLIFIED ALL THE FINEST TRADITIONS OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE TO WHICH YOU BELONG,♦ HE SAID.
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AGRICULTURE LAND DOWN FOOD PRODUCTION UP * * * *
ALTHOUGH THERE HAS BEEN A ONE THIRD REDUCTION IN CULTIVATED LAND DURING THE PAST 25 YEARS, FOOD PRODUCTION HAS INCREASED CONSIDERABLY, THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR JOHN RIDDELL-SWAN SAID THIS (FRIDAY) EVENING.
BUT HE WARNED FARMERS THAT THE MAIN CHALLENGE IN THE FUTURE WOULD BE THE INEVITABLE INCREASING LOSS OF GOOD QUALITY AGRICULTURAL LAND THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF URBANISATION.
MR RIDDELL-SWAN MADE THE COMMENTS TO MORE THAN 500 PRIMARY PRODUCERS AND NON-STABLE FOOD TRADERS AT A DINNER THEY HOSTED IN HIS HONOUR AS THE NEW DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES.
IN PAYING TRIBUTE TO MR RIDDELL-SWAN, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR KO HOK, SAID MR RIDDELL-SWAN JOINED THE DEPARTMENT IN 1956 AS A VETERINARY OFFICER, DEVOTING FULL ATTENTION TO THE IMPROVEMENT OF ANIMAL HEALTH.
♦GIVING SPECIAL ATTENTION TO DISEASE PREVENTION AND STOCK IMPROVEMENT OF PIGS AND CHICKENS, HE LAID FOUNDATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR MODERN POULTRY HUSBANDRY,♦ SAID MR KO.
MR RIDDELL-SWAN WAS APPOINTED ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (AGRICULTURE) IN 1964 AND WAS PROMOTED TO DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT IN 1971. HE WAS APPOINTED DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES LAST MONTH.
IN REPLY TO THE WELCOME ADDRESS, MR RIDDELL-SWAN SAID THAT IN 1956 HONG KONG HAD ABOUT 13 355 HECTARES OF LAND BEING FARMED AND PRODUCING 96 000 TONNES OF VEGETABLES- 227 000 PIGS- 1 100 000 POULTRY- 500 TONNES OF POND FISH- AND 26 000 TONNES OF RICE.
♦TODAY, IN 1980, WE HAVE ONLY SOME 8 094 HECTARES UNDER PRODUCTION BUT NOW PRODUCING 191 000 TONNES OF VEGETABLES- 528 000 PIGS- 29 051 000 POULTRY- 6 540 TONNES OF POND FISH- AND SOMEWHAT SIGNIFICANTLY ONLY 103 TONNES OF RICE,+ HE SAID.
HE ADDED THAT THE CONSIDERABLE INCREASE IN PRODUCTION, DESPITE A DECREASE IN LAND UNDER CULTIVATION OF ABOUT ONE THIRD, COULD BE ATTRIBUTED TO THE ABILITY OF FARMERS TO ADOPT THE LATEST FARMING TECHNIQUES TO MAXIMISE PRODUCTIVITY.
/he also .....
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
5
HE ALSO CITED SIMILAR CHANGES WITH THE FISHING INDUSTRY OF WHICH 95 PER CENT OF THE FLEET WAS NOW MECHANISED AND ABOUT A THIRD OF THE FLEET WAS CAPABLE OF FISHING IN DISTANT AND OFF-SHORE WATERS.
BESIDES THE HARD WORK BY PRIMARY PRODUCERS, THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS HAVE BEEN ASSISTED BY LOW-INTEREST LOAN FUNDS ADMINISTERED BY THE DEPARTMENT. IN 1956 LOANS ISSUED TO FARMERS AND FISHERMEN AMOUNTED TO $2.7 MILLION WHILE IN 1980 THEY AMOUNT TO $17.6 MILLION.
BUT OF THE FUTURE, HE SAIDi *IN FISHING WE MUST EXPECT THAT THERE WILL BE EVEN GREATER PRESSURE ON THE STOCKS OF FISH TRADITIONALLY CAUGHT BY THE LOCAL FLEET. TO OFFSET THIS AND TO KEEP PACE WITH INCREASING DEMAND, WE WILL NEED TO EXPLORE AND DEVELOP OTHER SOURCES, PARTICULARLY THE PELAGIC RESOURCES OF OUR SURROUNDING SEAS.*
AND BESIDES THE LOSS OF GOOD QUALITY AGRICULTURE LAND THROUGH URBANISATION HE WARNED OF AGRICULTURAL WASTE POLLUTION.
♦WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF MORE INTENSIVE METHODS OF FARMING AND AN INCREASE IN THE LIVESTOCK POPULATION. GREATER ATTENTION WILL ALSO NEED TO BE DEVOTED TO THE PROBLEM OF THE PROPER DISPOSAL OF AGRICULTURAL WASTES AND IN THIS THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT WILL BE ONLY TOO HAPPY TO ADVISE AND ASSIST,* SAID bfi RIDDELL-SWAN.
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PRISONS DEPARTMENT TO OPEN ANOTHER WOMEN’S CENTRE » » » » » I
THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT WILL HAVE ANOTHER CENTRE FOR WOMEN IN MAY THIS YEAR WHEN THE TAI TAM GAP CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION BECOMES AN INSTITUTION FOR YOUNG FEMALE OFFENDERS.
THIS WAS DISCLOSED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE COMMISSIONER OF PRISONS, MR T.6. GARNER. AT THE PRESENTATION OF COLONIAL PRISON SERVICE MEDALS AND CLASPS AT THE DEPARTMENT’S STAFF TRAINING INSTITUTE.
MR GARNER SAID IN THE HISTORY OF THE PRISON SERVICE IN HONG KONG, THERE HAD ONLY EVER BEEN ONE INSTITUTION TO CATER FOR WOMEN AND GIRLS, AND THAT WAS PRESENTLY THE TAI LAM CENTRE FOR WOMEN.
THE CENTRE WAS ORIGINALLY PLANNED AS A PRISON BUT IN ORDER TO PROVIDE DIFFERENT PROGRAMMES FOR WOMEN AND GIRLS, IT WAS DIVIDED INTO THREE SECTIONSi A PRISON, A DRUG ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRE AND A TRAINING CENTRE.
♦HOWEVER, THE TIME HAS NOW COME TO OPEN A SEPARATE INSTITUTION FOR GIRLS UND^R 21 SO THAT THE TRAINING CENTRE SECTION CAN FUNCTION INDEPENDENTLY WHICH WILL HAVE DISTINCT ADVANTAGES,* MR GARNER SAID.
♦IT WILL ALSO ENABLE THE DEPARTMENT TO PROVIDE SEPARATE ACCOMMODATION FOR GIRLS UNDER 21 SENTENCED TO IMPRISONMENT,* HE ADDED.
/POINTING CUT .....
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
6
POINTING OUT THAT GOOD ORDER IN PENAL ESTABLISHMENTS WAS MOST NECESSARY, MR GARNER SAID THAT DURING LAST YEAR, IN SOME 1 347 CASES OF PRISONERS REPORTED FOR MISCONDUCT, A TOTAL OF 15 715 DAYS REMISSION WERE FORFEITED.
HE SAIDi ♦LOSS OF REMISSION FOR BREACHES OF PRISON DISCIPLINE IS ONE OF THE BEST TOOLS THAT THE DEPARTMENT CAN USE TO ENFORCE DISCIPLINE.
♦WITH THIS IN MIND, REPRESENTATION HAS BEEN MADE TO HAVE CORPORAL PUNISHMENT AND DIETARY PUNISHMENT ERASED FROM THE PRISON RULES. THE FORMER HAS NEVER BEEN USED IN 28 YEARS AND THE LATTER VERY SPARINGLY IN RECENT YEARS.♦
MR GARNER NOTED THAT DUE TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE METRIC SYSTEM, DIETARY SCALES FOR PRISONERS MUST BE REVIEWED. AND HE WAS PRESENTLY CONSIDERING WHETHER THERE WAS A REAL NEED TO PROVIDE THREE SEPARATE DIETS WITHIN INSTITUTIONS.
HE SAIDi ♦THERE ARE FEW COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD WHICH CATER IN THIS WAY FOR PRISONERS, CERTAINLY THE UNITED KINGDOM DOES NOT AND IT MAY BE THAT THERE IS NO LONGER A REQUIREMENT FOR OTHER THAN A CHINESE TYPE DIET. PRISON MEDICAL OFFICERS CAN VARY OR SUPPLEMENT THIS DIET NOW AND THIS WOULD CONTINUE. SUCH VARIATION IS DONE ON RELIGIOUS AS WELL AS HEALTH GROUNDS.♦
MR GARNER ALSO DESCRIBED AS MOST ENCOURAGING THE RESULT OF THE DETENTION CENTRE PROGRAMME FOR YOUNG MALE ADULTS AGED 21 AND UNDER 25 WHICH COMMENCED TWO AND A HALF YEARS AGO.
♦IN THAT TIME, 156 YOUNG ADULTS HAVE BEEN SENTENCED BY THE COURTS TO DETENTION CENTRE TRAINING OF WHICH 100 HAVE PASSED THROUGH THE PROGRAMME AND BEEN DISCHARGED,^ HE SAID.
♦SO FAR OUT OF THIS 100, ONLY FOUR HAVE BEEN RECONVICTED FOR A FURTHER OFFENCE,♦ HE REMARKED ADDING THAT 40 HAD ALREADY COMPLETED THE MANDATORY SUPERVISION PERIOD OF 12 MONTHS.
DURING THE CEREMONY TODAY, MR GARNER PRESENTED COLONIAL PRISON SERVICE MEDALS AND CLASPS TO 14 PRISON STAFF MEMBERS WHO HAD CHALKED UP A COMBINED TOTAL OF 363 YEARS SERVICE WITH THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT.
THE RECIPIENTS INCLUDED A SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT, AN ACTING SUPERINTENDENT, TWO CHIEF OFFICERS, AN OFFICER, EIGHT ASSISTANT OFFICERS AND A SENIOR FOREMAN.
THE COLONIAL PRISON SERVICE MEDAL IS AWARDED FOR 18 YEARS' EXEMPLARY SERVICE, THE FIRST CLASP FOR 25 YEARS’ AND THE SECOND CLASP FOR 30 YEARS’ SERVICE.
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FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
7
TSING Yl VILLAGES TO MAKE WAY FOR DEVELOPMENT * ft ft ft *
FOUR TRADITIONAL VILLAGES ON TSI NG Yl ISLAND ARE TO BE MOVED TO MAKE WAY FOR A MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECT STARTING SHORTLY.
THE VILLAGES ARE LAM TIN, SAN UK, YIM TIN KOK AND TAI WONG HA, WHOSE AGRICULTURAL AND BUILDING LAND, TOTALLING 11.17 HECTARES, IS TO BE RESUMED BY THE GOVERNMENT AT THE END OF JUNE. THE VILLAGES COMPRISE A TOTAL OF 227 HOUSES.
THE RESUMPTION WAS NOTIFED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE LAND IS REQUIRED FOR A $1.4 BILLION DEVELOPMENT PACKAGE INCLUDING PHASE THREE OF CHEUNG HONG ESTATE - THE SECOND PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE ON THE ISLAND - TO HOUSE 35 000 PEOPLE WHEN IT IS FULLY COMPLETED IN 1984.
LAND FORMATION FOR THIS THIRD PHASE WILL BEGIN IN SEPTEMBER.
SITES WILL ALSO BE FORMED FOR A VILLAGE RESITE AREA AND A TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA, AS WELL AS AN AREA FOR STORING MATERIALS REQUIRED FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE TSUEN WAN BY-PASS WHICH WILL LINK KWAI CHUNG AND TUEN MUN ROAD.
ENGINEERING WORK WILL GET UNDER WAY AT THE SAME TIME TO CONSTRUCT ROADS AND DRAINS TO SERVE FUTURE LOCAL DEVELOPMENTS.
THE PACKAGE FORMS PART OF AN AMBITIOUS TOWN CENTRE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT WHICH INCLUDES PRIVATE AND PUBLIC HOUSING AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, TOGETHER WITH SUFFICIENT AMENITIES AND FACILITIES FOR A POPULATION OF 185 000 PEOPLE BY THE MID-1980S.
A NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT AS THE LAND NEEDED LAY WITHIN A LAYOUT PLAN, VILLAGERS SURRENDERING THEIR BUILDING LAND WOULD BE OFFERED RESITE HOUSES AND EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES UNDER VILLAGE REMOVAL TERMS.
OWNERS OF AGRICULTURAL LAND WOULD ALSO BE OFFERED CASH COMPENSATION AND/OR LAND EXCHANGE ENTITLEMENTS.
TNE GOVERNS NT WOULD ALSO PAY COMPENSATION FOR CROPS, FRUIT TREES, FENCES, WELLS, IRRIGATION PIPES, GRAVES AND SHRINES, « SAID.
♦TOE CLEARANCE WILL ALSO INVOLVE 703 TEMPORARY DOMESTIC STRUCTURES OCCUPIED BY 375 FAMILIES, MOSTLY ON CROWN LAND,* THE SPOKESMAN SAID. ♦THESE FAMILIES, IF FOUND ELIGIBLE, WILL BE OFFERED PUBLIC HOUSING LOCALLY. FAMILIES NOT ELIGIBLE FOR PERMANENT HOUSING WILL BE GIVEN TEMPORARY HOUSING ACCOMMODATION.*
IN ADDITON, HE SAID, A TOTAL OF 329 OTHER TEMPORARY STRUCTURES, INCLUDING SHOPS, WORKSHOPS, PIGSTIES AND POULTRY SHEDS, WILL ALSO HAVE TO BE CLEARED.
DISPLACED INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL OPERATORS WHO ARE ELIGIBLE WILL BE OFFERED EX-ORATIA ALLOWANCES AT THE CURRENT RATES.
0 -------
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, I960
8
SAI KUNG TO GET IMPROVED WATER SUPPLY ft ft * ft ft
THE GOVERNMENT IS TO EMBARK ON A $17.8 MILLION SCHEME TO IMPROVE WATER SUPPLIES IN SAI KUNG TO COPE WITH AN INCREASED POPULATION AND RAPID DEVELOPMENT IN THE DISTRICT.
WORK WILL START NEXT MONTH TO CONSTRUCT A NEW BRANCH TUNNEL FROM HIRAM’S HIGHWAY TO TAI SHU LAM, SAI KUNG, TO ENABLE SUFFICIENT WATER TO BE DRAWN OFF FROM THE HIGH ISLAND TUNNEL SYSTEM TO BE TREATED AT A NEW WATER TREATMENT PLANT, ALSO AT TAI SHU LAM
WORK ON THE PLANT WILL START EARLY NEXT YEAR AND TAKE 12 MONTHS TO COMPLETE. IT WILL INCREASE THE EXISTING TREATED WATER SUPPLY BY 11 OOO CUBIC METRES PER DAY.
THE PROJECT WILL CATER FOR GROWTH IN DEMAND FOR ABOUT FIVE YEARS WHEN A MAJOR TREATMENT PLANT IS TO BE COMMISSIONED.
A NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT WITH CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT OF SAI KUNG, THE EXISTING WATER SUPPLY FROM THE NETWORK AT SAU MAU PING WAS BECOMING INADEQUATE.
♦THE DEMAND FOR WATER SUPPLY HAS RAPIDLY RISEN TO A LEVEL WHERE, UNLESS FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS ARE CARRIED OUT SOON, IT WOULD BE DIFFICULT TO MAINTAIN A CONTINUED DAILY SUPPLY TO THE DISTRICT BY THE SUMMER OF 1981,+ HE SAID.
AN ACCESS ROAD WILL ALSO BE BUILT ALONG THE TUNNEL AREA AS PART OF THE PROJECT WHICH IS EXPECTED TO TAKE 15 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
THE PROJECT WILL INVOL'E THE RESUMPTION OF ABOUT 5 880 SQUARE METRES OF PRIVATE AGRICULTURE LAND AT TAI SHU LAM. DETAILS WERE PUBLISHED IN TODAY’S GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID SINCE NO BUILDING LAND WAS INVOLVED, FAMILIES WOULD NOT BE DISPLACED AS A-RESULT OF RESUMPTION.
HOWEVER, HE SAID, TWO SMALL TEMPORARY PUMP HOUSES WOULD HAVE TO BE REMOVED.
THE GOVERNMENT WILL PAY COMPENSATION FOR CROPS, FRUIT TREES, PINE TREES, FENCES, GRAVES AND BONE POTS, AS WELL AS EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES TO CULTIVATORS.
LAND OWNERS WILL BE OFFERED CASH COMPENSATION AT CURRENT RATES.
/9
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
9
GRAVE-SWEEPERS WARNED OF SWINDLERS ft ft ft ft
VISITORS TO CRAVES IN NEW TERRITORIES PUBLIC CEMETERIES ARE TODAY WARNED THAT THEY MIGHT BE APPROACHED BY SWINDLERS IMPERSONATING GOVERNMENT CEMETERY STAFF.
WITH CHING MING FESTIVAL JUST A FEW DAYS AWAY, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE NT SERVICES DEPARTMENT SAID THERE HAD BEEN REPORTS OF PEOPLE IMPERSONATING NTSD STAFF OFFERING TO EXHUME BONES AT EXORBITANT FEES.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID, *WE HAVE BEEN TOLD BY VISITORS TO GRAVES THAT THEY HAD BEEN APPROACHED BY PEOPLE CLAIMING TO BE CEMETERY STAFF AND THAT THEIR ANCESTOR’S GRAVES WERE DUE FOR EXHUMATION. THESE PEOPLE THEN OFFERED TO EXHUME THE REMAINS FOR AN EXORBITANT PRICE.*
THERE WERE ALSO REPORTED CASES WHERE PEOPLE WHO WENT TO SWEEP GRAVES HAD GIVEN PARTICULARS TO THESE IMPERSONATORS AND, FOR FEAR OF FUTURE TROUBLE, HAD ACCEPTED OFFERS TO EXHUME ONLY TO FIND OUT LATER THAT THEY HAD BEEN CHEATED.
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THE NTSD NEITHER OPERATES A PAID SERVICE FOR ANY PRIVATE EXHUMATION IN ANY PUBLIC CEMETERY, NOR SETS ANY SCALE OF CHARGES AND HAS APPOINTED NO CONTRACTORS TO PROVIDE SUCH A SERVICE.
♦OUR STAFF ARE ALWAYS IN UNIFORM AND CARRY THEIR DEPARTMENTAL IDENTITY CARDS,♦ HE SAID.
♦IF GRAVE-VISITORS ARE APPROACHED BY UNDESIRABLE OR SUSPECTED CHARACTERS, THEY SHOULD REPORT IMMEDIATELY TO THE POLICE POSTED AT THE CEMETERY OR TO THE CEMETERY OFF ICE.♦
MEANWHILE THE SPOKESMAN ANNOUNCED THAT A NOTICE OF INTENTION TO REMOVE AND DISPOSE OF HUMAN REMAINS THAT WERE BURIED IN CHEUNG CHAU, SANDY RIDGE AND WO HOP SHEK CEMETERIES IN 1973 WILL BE PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE BEFORE CHING MING FESTIVAL.
HE REMINDED ANYONE REQUIRING EXHUMATION OF BURIED REMAINS THAT THEY SHOULD APPLY IN ADVANCE FOR A PERMIT AT $25 FROM THE DEPARTMENT’S CEMETERIES AND CREMATORIUM OFFICE AT 6, CHEONG HANG ROAD,HUNG HOM.
IT IS EXPECTED THAT MORE THAN 80 000 PEOPLE WILL GO TO THE CEMETERIES TO PAY HOMAGE TO THEIR ANCESTORS DURING THE COMING CHING MING FESTIVAL.
THEY ARE REQUESTED TO KEEP THE CEMETERIES CLEAN DURING THEIR VISIT.
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/1O .....
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
10
CHEMOTHERAPY SHORTENS TREATMENT PERIOD ft ft * ft ft *
THE SHORT COURSE CHEMOTHERAPY RECENTLY INTRODUCED BY THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT WHICH CUT DOWN TREATMENT PERIOD FROM A YEAR AND HALF TO LESS THAN SIX MONTHS HAS ACHIEVED FAVOURABLE RESULTS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES. DR K.L. THONG, IN HIS ADDRESS TO THE ANNUAL GENERAL bEETING 6f THE HONG KONG ANTI-TUBERCULOSIS, CHEST AND HEART DISEASES ASSOCIATION THIS EVENING.
+IT IS STILL TOO EARLY TO ASSESS THE PROGRAMME AS A WHOLE BUT ALL PRELIMINARY INDICATIONS ARE THAT IT IS GOING TO PROVE HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL AND THAT THE INCREASED EXPENDITURE ON EXPENSIVE NEW DRUGS IS GOING TO PROVE FULLY JUSTIFIED,* HE SAID.
FOR MANY YEARS, THE TREND OF NOTIFICATION OF TUBERCULOSIS, STILL A VERY IMPORTANT DISEASE IN HONG KONG, HAD BEEN GOING DOWN BY FIVE PER CENT PER ANNUM UNTIL LAST YEAR, WHEN THE NOTIFICATION RATE ROSE TO 161 PER 100 000 FROM IM IN 1978.
DR THONG, WHO IS ALSO PRESIDENT OF THE ASSOCIATION, ATTRIBUTED THE INCREASE TO THE LARGE INFLUX OF PEOPLE INTO HONG KONG AND A CASE-FINDING CAMPAIGN ORGANISED BY THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT.
DR THONG STRESSED THAT THE PRESENT SITUATION WAS ONLY TEMPORARY. WHEN THE INFLUX OF PEOPLE COULD BE CONTAINED, THE MENACE OF THIS COMMUNICABLE DISEASE WOULD AGAIN CONTINUE TO RECEDE.
HE SAID THE CASE-FINDING CAMPAIGN MOUNTED LAST SUMMER WITH ELDERLY MALES AS THE TARGET GROUP RESULTED IN A 20 PER CENT RISE IN ATTENDANCES AT GOVERNMENT CHEST CLINICS.
DR THONG SAID THAT THE ASSOC IAfiON HAD CHANGED ITS TITLE TO THE PRESENT ONE TO INDICATE ITS EXPANDED ROLE AND, IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE HONG KONG HEART FOUNDATION, IS CONVERTING THE GRANTHAM HOSPITAL INTO A MAJOR CARD IO-THORAC IC CENTRE.
AN AD HOC COMMITTEE HAS ALSO BEEN FORMED TO DEAL WITH THE REDEVELOPMENT OF THE RUTTONJEE SANATORIUM AS A RESULT OF THE CHANGING ROLE OF THE ASSOCIATION, HE ADDED.
IN THE PAST YEAR, DR THONG SAID THE ASSOCIATION TOOK PART IN THE OVERALL MEDICAL SERVICES FOR VIETNAMESE REFUGEES IN HONG KONG AT THE REQUEST OF THE UNITED NATIONS COMMISSION FOR REFUGEES. ITS MOBILE UNIT X-RAYED OVER 2 000 REFUGEES AND MADE ABOUT 160 REFERENCES TO THE NEARBY GOVERNMENT CHEST CLINICS.
HE ADDED THAT EXTENSION PROJECT OF THE GRANTHAM HOSPITAL HAS BEEN MADE POSSIBLE BY A $10 MILLION DONATION FROM MR KWOK TAK-SANG, A $2 MILLION DONATION FROM THE ASSOCIATION AND THE CAPITAL SUBVENTION OF THE GOVERNMENT.
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• FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
11
SPECIAL TRAINS FOR CHING MING FESTIVAL ******
THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY WILL BE OPERATING ADDITIONAL TRAINS DURING THE CHING MING FESTIVAL.
A SPOKESMAN FOR KCR SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) NINE EXTRA TRAINS WOULD BE RUNNING EACH WAY ON MARCH 30, APRIL 4 AND APRIL 6 BETWEEN KOWLOON AND WO HOP SHEK.
THESE TRAINS ARE DIRECT SERVICES AND WILL NOT STOP AT ANY INTERMEDIATE STATIONS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID AS CHING MING FELL ON APRIL 4 WHICH COINCIDED WITH THE START OF THE EASTER HOLIDAYS, HE URGED THOSE VISITING GRAVES AT WO HOP SHEK AND SANDY RIDGE AT LOWU TO AVOID AS FAR AS POSSIBLE USING THE RAILWAY AS THE CHINA-BOUND TRAFFIC ON THAT DAY WAS EXPECTED TO BE VERY HEAVY.
HE ALSO ADVISED PEOPLE TO AVOID USING THE RAILWAY FOR OUTINGS TO THE NEW TERRITORIES ON CHING MING DAY.
THE SPECIAL UP-TRAINS TO WO HOP SHEK ON THE THREE DAYS WILL LEAVE KOWLOON STATION IN HUNG HOM AT 6.40 AM, 8.06 AM, 9.27 AM, 10.32 AM, 11.48 AM, 1.18 PM, 1.57 PM, 3.02 PM AND 4.36 PM.
THE DOWN-TRAINS WILL LEAVE WO HOP SHEK AT 8.09 AM, 10.14 AM, 11.16 AM, 12.17 PM, 1.52 PM, 2.36 PM, 3.35 PM, 4.47 PM AND 6.28 PM.
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EARLY PAYMENT TO SOCIAL SECURITY RECIPIENTS * * * -*
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT HAS MADE SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS TO ADVANCE PAYMENTS TO THOSE RECIPIENTS OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND SPECIAL NEEDS ALLOWANCE WHOSE COUPONS ARE DATED FOR PAYMENTS DURING THE EASTER HOLIDAYS NEXT WEEK.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT'SA ID TODAY (FRIDAY) THOSE WITH COUPONS TO BE CASHED ON APRIL 4 AND 5, COULD DO SO ON OR AFTER APRIL 1 AND COUPONS DATED APRIL 6 AND 7 COULD BE CASHED ON OR AFTER APRIL 2 AND 3 RESPECTIVELY.
HE SAID THE ARRANGEMENTS HAD BEEN’MADE WITH TREASURY OFFICES, POST OFFICES AND NEW TERRITORIES DISTRICT OFFICES WHERE THE COUPONS WERE CASHED.
HE ADVISED THOSE INVOLVED TO TAKE NOTE OF THEIR OWN CASHING DATES SO THAT THEY COULD GET THEIR RAYMERS BEFORE THE EASTER HOL I DAYS.
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
12
LAND SALE RESULTS *****
TWO LOTS OF CROWN LAND WERE SOLD AT AN AUCTION CONDUCTED BY THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT’S CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY OFFICE IN THE CITY HALL THEATRE TODAY (FRIDAY).
ONE LOT MEASURING 4 900 SQUARE METRES AT TAI WAN ROAD, HUNG HOM WAS SOLD TO ZYBRINA LTD FOR *118 MILLION OR *24 081.63 PER SQUARE METRE. THE SITE IS FOR INDUSTRIAL AND/OR GODOWN USE.
THE OTHER LOT AT CHAI WAN ROAD. WAS SOLD TO SUPREME CAPE LTD FOR *76 MILLION OR *15 510.20 PER SQUARE METRE. THE SITE, ALSO MEASURING ABOUT 4 900 SQUARE METRES, IS FOR NON-1NDUSTRI AL PURPOSE.
-----o------
SEMINAR FOR SCHOOL HEADS
*****
HEADS OF ABOUT 700 AIDED PRIMARY SCHOOLS AND STAFF OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WILL ATTEND A SEMINAR NEXT WEEK TO DISCUSS SCHOOL MANAGEMENT, THE CURRICULUM AND STUDENT GUIDANCE.
THE SEMINAR, WHICH AIMS TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN SCHOOL HEADS AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, WILL BE HELD ON APRIL 3 AT THREE CENTRES ON HONG KONG ISLAND, IN KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES, RESPECTIVELY.
APART FROM TALKS BY SENIOR OFFICERS OF EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, THERE WILL BE GROUP DISCUSSIONS.
PARTICIPANTS WILL DISCUSS HOW TO PROMOTE MORE EFFECTIVELY COMMUNICATION OF SCHOOL HEADS WITH TEACHERS, MANAGEMENT COMMITTEES, PARENTS AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
THEY WILL ALSO DISCUSS FAIR TREATMENT IN THE PROMOTION OF TEACHERS, TIMETABLING AND DEPLOYMENT OF STAFF.
ON HONG KONG ISLAND, THE SEMINAR WILL BE HELD AT CLEMENTI MIDDLE SCHOOL, FORTRESS HILL ROAD- IN KOWLOON, IT WILL BE HELD AT LA SALLE COLLEGE, LA SALLE ROAD- AND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES THE VENUE WILL BE KIANGSU-CHEKIANG COLLEGE AT WO CHE ESTATE, SHA TIN.
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' FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
13
NOTE TO EDITORSI
DSW TO OPEN TRAINING CENTRE FOR RETARDED CHILDREN ft ft ft ft ft
THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR THOMAS LEE, WILL TOMORROW (SATURDAY) OFFICIALLY OPEN HONG KONG’S FIRST PRE-SCHOOL TRAINING CENTRE FOR SEVERELY MENTALLY RETARDED CHILDREN IN SAU MAU PING.
THE TRAINING CENTRE, WITH FINANCIAL SUPPORT FROM THE LOTTERIES FUND MADE THROUGH THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, IS OPERATED BY THE PO LEUNG KUK.
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE AT 11 AM TOMORROW AT THE TRAINING CENTRE IN SAU MAU PING ESTATE, BLOCK 45, KOWLOON.
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RE-ROUTING OF KOWLOON MAX ICAB ROUTE 13 ft ft ft ft ft ft
THE ROUTING OF KOWLOON MAXICAB ROUTE NO 13 BETWEEN KOWLOON TONG AND HUNG HOM FERRY PIER WILL BE REVISED FROM SUNDAY (MARCH 30).
FROM THAT DAY MAXICABS ON THIS ROUTE WILL OPERATE VIA JUNCTION ROAD AND LOK FU MTR STATION INSTEAD OF RENFREW ROAD AND LA SALLE ROAD.
- - o - -
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1980
14
HOLIDAY POSTAL ARRANGEMENTS ft ft ft ft ft
THERE WILL BE ONLY ONE MAIL DELIVERY ON MONDAY (MARCH 31) WHICH IS A GENERAL HOLIDAY.
ON THAT DAY, ONLY 32 POST OFFICES INCLUDING THE GENERAL POST OFFICE ON HONG KONG INLAND, THE KOWLOON CENTRAL AND TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICES IN KOWLOON AND THE TSUEN WAN AND TAI PO POST OFFICES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WILL BE OPEN FOR BUSINESS FROM 9 AM TO NOON
ALL OTHER POST OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED.
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TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF SLIP ROAD IN MID-LEVELS ft ft ft ft
AN ELEVATED SLIP ROAD FROM MAGAZINE GAP ROAD IN MID-LEVELS WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FROM 2 PM SUNDAY (MARCH 30) TO FACILITATE CONSTRUCTION WORK
TO GARDEN ROAD TO 4 PM ON IN THE AREA.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC
SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1980
CONTENTS 'PAGE NO.
REVISION CF HYF FERRY SERVICES ............................. 1
GOVERNOR LAUNCHES SALVATION aRMY’S 5OTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS ................................... 2
SHA TIN’S NEW RaILWAY STATION TAKING SHAPE.................. 3
SNT OPENS SCOUT CLUBHOUSE IN YUEN LONG...................... 3
REPORT TRAFFIC BOLLARD DAMAGES ............................. 5
DSW OPENS TRAINING CENTRE FOR RETARDED CHILDREN..............6
RENEWAL CF HAWKER LICENCE IN KWAI CHUNG .................... 6
PROHIBITED ZONES AT ADMIRALTY STATION ...................... 7
Water cut .................................................. 7
FIRING PRACTICE ............................................ 7
SATURDAY, MARCH 29, I960
1
REVISION OF *
HYF FERRY SERVICES ft ft ft ft
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAS GIVEN ITS APPROVAL TO THE HONG KONG AND YAUMATI FERRY COMPANY TO INTRODUCE A NUMBER OF ECONOMY MEASURES INCLUDING THE CURTAILMENT OF SOME LIGHTLY PATRONISED LATE NIGHT SAILINGS TO BEAT ESCALATING FUEL AND OPERATING COSTS.
STARTING TOMORROW (SUNDAY), THE TIMETABLES FOR THE HONG KONG TO TSUEN WAN AND TSUEN WAN TO TSING Yl FERRY SERVICES WILL BE SLIGHTLY REVISED.
THE TSUEN WAN TO TSING Yl SERVICE WILL STOP AT 10 PM INSTEAD OF 12.15AM WHILST THE BASIC OPERATING FREQUENCY OF THE HONG KONG TO TSUEN WAN SERVICE WILL BE REDUCED FROM 25 MINUTES INTERVALS TO 30 MINUTES.
THE HONG KONG TO TAI 0 SERVICE WILL OPERATE FOUR SAILINGS INSTEAD OF SIX A DAY FROM APRIL 1. THE 6.20 AM SAILING FROM TAI 0 TO HONG KONG AND THE 9.10 AM SAILING FROM HONG KONG TO TA I 0 WILL BE WITHDRAWN, BUT THE 3.50 PM SAILING FROM HONG KONG TO TAI 0 WILL MAKE AN ADDITIONAL CALL AT CASTLE PEAK BAY.
IT IS CONSIDERED THAT THIS REVISED TIMETABLE WILL CAUSE LITTLE INCONVENIENCE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC, AS THE TWO CANCELLED SAILINGS HAVE SELDOM CARRIED MORE THAN 50 PASSENGERS A TIME.
DESPITE THE REDUCTION IN SERVICES IT WILL STILL BE POSSIBLE FOR RESIDENTS IN NORTHERN LANTAU TO TRAVEL TO TUEN MUN AND RETURN BY FERRIES ON THE SAME DAY.
A 550-SEATER DOUBLE-DECK VESSEL WILL BE RELEASED FROM THE HONG KONG TO TA I 0 SERVICE IN THE MORNING AND BE DEPLOYED TO AUGMENT THE MORNING PEAK CARRYING CAPACITY ON THE SHAU KEI WAN TO SAM KA TSUEN SERVICE.
IN TURN THIS WILL RELEASE A 260-SEATER WATER BUS WHICH WILL THEN BE USED ON THE SHAU KEI WAN TO KOWLOON CITY SERVICE TO REPLACE THE MUCH SMALLER WATER TAXI USED AT PRESENT.
A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THESE TIMETABLE REVISIONS AND THE REDEPLOYMENT OF VESSELS WERE APPROVED AFTER CAREFUL EVALUATION OF THE USE MADE OF THE SERVICES AGAINST RISING OPERATING COSTS.
HE SAID THAT AS A RESULT OF THESE CHANGES MORE EFFICIENT USE COULD BE MADE OF THE FERRY FLEET.
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/2 .....
SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1980
2
GOVERNOR LAUNCHES SALVATION ARMY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS *****
THE GOVERNMENT, IN ADDITION TO ITS OWN DIRECT EFFORTS, MUST CONTINUE TO RELY ON THE UNSTINTING EFFORTS OF PEOPLE LIKE THE SALVATION ARMY TO EXPAND AND IMPROVE SOCIAL SERVICES, THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, SAID TODAY.
SPEAKING AT THE SALVATION ARMY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS LAUNCHING CEREMONY IN THE OCEAN TERMINAL, SIR MURRAY SAID ITS ACHIEVEMENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO SOCIAL SERVICES IN HONG KONG WERE CF THE HIGHEST ORDER AND MUCH VALUED BY ALL SECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY.
WHEN IT FIRST BEGAN HERE IN 1930, HONG KONG’S POPULATION WAS A BARE 850 000 AND ITS OPERATION WAS COMPARATIVELY SMALL.
+BUT IT HAS RESPONDED SPLENDIDLY TO THE SWOLLEN NEEDS OF A SWOLLEN POPULATION AND ITS ACTIVITIES NOW INCLUDE SIX SCHOOLS, FOUR CLINICS AND 43 CENTRES FOR CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE, THE ELDERLY AND THE DISABLED,* SIR MURRAY SAID.
FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THE GOVERNOR’S SPEECHi
+1 AM VERY PLEASED TO BE HERE THIS MORNING TO CELEBRATE WITH THIS GROUP OF DEDICATED MEN AND WOMEN 50 YEARS OF DEVOTED AND IMAGINATIVE SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
♦WHEN THE SALVATION ARMY FIRST BEGAN HERE IN 1930, HONG KONG’S POPULATION WAS A BARE 850 000. ITS OPERATION WAS COMPARATIVELY SMALL. BUT IT HAS RESPONDED SPLENDIDLY TO THE SWOLLEN NEEDS OF A SWOLLEN POPULATION AND ITS ACTIVITIES NOW INCLUDE SIX SCHOOLS, FOUR CLINICS AND 43 CENTRES FOR CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE, THE ELDERLY AND THE DISABLED. THIS EXPANSION GOES ON AND INCLUDES A PURPOSE-BUILT HOME FOR THE MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED. THE SALVATION ARMY IS AN ORGANISATION OF WORLDWIDE RENOWN, HERE, IN HONG KONG, ITS ACHIEVEMENTS AND ITS CONTRIBUTIONS TO SOCIAL SERVICES ARE OF THE HIGHEST ORDER AND MUCH VALUED BY ALL SECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY.
♦THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO EXPAND AND IMPROVE SOCIAL SERVICES IS CLEARLY DEFINED IN THE SERIES OF WHITE PAPERS PUBLISHED IN THE 70S. TO REALISE THESE AMBITIOUS GOALS, IN ADDITION TO ITS OWN DIRECT EFFORTS THE GOVERNMENT MUST CONTINUE TO RELY ON THE UNSTINTING EFFORTS OF PEOPLE LIKE YOURSELF WHO ARE PREPARED TO WORK FOR THE COMMON GOOD. I AM SURE THAT THE SALVATION ARMY WILL CONTINUE TO RISE TO THE OCCASION, AS IT HAS TO SO MANY OTHERS IN SO MANY LANDS.
♦I CONGRATULATE YOU ON YOUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY AND WISH YOU ALL SUCCESS IN THE FUTURE.*
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SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1980
3
SHA TIN’S NEW RAILWAY STATION TAKING SHAPE ft ft ft ft
THE NEW RAILWAY STATION BEING BUILT AT SHA TIN IS ENTERING ANOTHER PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT WITH THE CALLING OF TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SUPERSTRUCTURE.
THE WORK WILL INCLUDE THE BUILDING OF A TWO-LEVEL BRIDGE WITH SHOPPING FACILITIES AT THE LOWER DECK.
A PWD SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY THAT SUB-STRUCTURE WORK ON THE STATION HAD BEEN COMPLETED AND FINISHING TOUCHES WERE BEING PUT TO THE NEW PLATFORMS.
WORK WILL BEGIN IN MAY ON THE SUB-STRUCTURE OF THE BRIDGE.
♦THE BRIDGE, WHICH WILL BE OVER TAI PO ROAD, WILL LINK THE STATION WITH THE NEW TOWN CENTRE,♦ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
♦THERE WILL ALSO BE A COVERED FOOTBRIDGE CONNECTING PAI TAU VILLAGE WITH THE STATION AT CONCOURSE LEVEL WHILE THE CONCOURSE AND PLATFORMS WILL BE CONNECTED BY FOUR PAIRS OF ESCALATORS, FOUR STAIRWAYS AND TWO GOODS LIFTS.+
THE CONCOURSE OF THE NEW STATION, WHICH IS NEXT TO THE EXISTING ONE, WILL BE OVER THE TRACKS AND WILL BE ACCESSIBLE BY CAR VIA THE SHA TIN EXTERNAL BUS ROUTE TERMINUS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE STRUCTURE FOR THE STATION HAD BEEN SO DESIGNED THAT IT WOULD TAKE A NINE-STOREY GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING IN FUTURE.
WORK CALLED BY THE TENDER IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN SEPTEMBER AND TAKE ABOUT 17 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
SNT OPENS SCOUT CLUBHOUSE IN YUEN LONG ft ft ft ft ft ft
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) COMPLETION OF A S460 000 CLUBHOUSE FOR THE BOY SCOUT ASSOCIATION YUEN LONG (EAST) DISTRICT WAS +A VERY GOOD EXAMPLE OF WHAT THE CONCERTED EFFORTS OF A COMMUNITY CAN ACHI EVE.♦
OPENING THE CLUBHOUSE AT AU TAU, YUEN LONG, MR AKERS-JONES SAIDi +IT IS OF COURSE YET ANOTHER DEMONSTRATION OF THE PUBLIC SPIRIT OF THE YUEN LONG COMMUNITY.♦
HE SAID HE PLACED GREAT IMPORTANCE ON THE DEVELOPMENT AND EXPANSION OF SCOUTING IN THE NEW TERRITORIES. +SCOUTING, ONE OF THE MOST WELL ORGANISED ACTIVITIES FOR OUR YOUNG PEOPLE, HAS A LONG HISTORY.
/+THE SUCCESS
SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1980
4
♦THE SUCCESS OF SCOUTING DEPENDS NOT ONLY ON THE EFFORTS OF UNIFORMED SCOUT PERSONNEL, IT ALSO RELIES ON THE SUPPORT OF BOARD MEMBERS AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY.
♦FUNDS NEEDED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THIS MAGNIFICENT CLUBHOUSE CAK FROM GENEROUS DONATIONS OF LOCAL ENTHUSIASTS AND THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB. WITHOUT THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT, THE COMPLETION OF SUCH A GREAT UNDERTAKING WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE,♦ MR AKERS-JONES SAID.
HE UNDERSTOOD THE YUEN LONG (EAST) SCOUT ASSOCIATION WAS PLANNING TO DEVELOP A CAMP SITE ADJACENT TO THE NEW CLUBHOUSE AND THE YUEN LONG (WEST) SCOUT ASSOCIATION HAD ALSO APPLIED FOR A SITE IN LAU FAU SHAN TO CONSTRUCT A CLUBHOUSE AND CAMP SITE.
♦YOUR ENTHUSIASM IN THE PROMOTION OF THE SCOUT MOVEMENT IS MOST PRAISEWORTHY AND I CAN ASSURE YOU THAT THE GOVERNMENT WILL CONTINUE TO GIVE WHATEVER ASSISTANCE NECESSARY IN THIS WORTHY CAUSE,♦ MR AKERS-JONES SAID.
MR AKERS-JONES, WHO WAS ACCOMPANIED BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE SCOUT ASSOCIATION YUEN LONG (EAST) DISTRICT, MR LAI KAM-MAN, AND THE CHAIRMAN, MR CHENG WAI-KWOK, UNVEILED A PLAQUE OFFICIALLY TO OPEN THE CLUBHOUSE.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB, MR P.G. WILLIAMS, PERFORMED THE +DOOR-OPENING+ CEREMONY. THE CLUB HAS DONATED |2OO 000 TOWARDS THE COST OF THE CLUBHOUSE.
THE NEW CLUBHOUSE HAS THREE STOREYS EACH OF 65 SQUARE METRES. A CONFERENCE ROOM AND A RECEPTION AREA ARE ON THE GROUND FLOOR. THERE ARE TWO OFFICES ON THE FIRST FLOOR AND A LECTURE ROOM, EQUIPPED WITH THE LATEST AUDIO/VISUAL FACILITIES, IS ON THE SECOND FLOOR.
IT IS BUILT ON A 260 SQUARE METRES (2 800 SQ FEET) SITE WHICH INCLUDES PARADE GROUNDS EQUIPPED WITH FLOOD LIGHTING.
THE NEW BUILDING WILL SERVE MORE THAN 500 BOY SCOUTS IN THE YUEN LONG (EAST) DISTRICT. ITS FACILITIES WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE TO LOCAL STUDENTS AND YOUNG PEOPLE AS WELL AS TO SCOUTS FROM OTHER NEW TERRITORIES DISTRICTS.
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/5
SATURDAY, MARCH 29, I960 5 -
REPORT TRAFFIC BOLLARD DAMAGES
* X X
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE URGED TO REPORT TO THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT IF THEY SEE TRAFFIC BOLLARDS DAMAGED ON THE ROAD.
BY DOING SO, THEY WILL HELP TO ENSURE THAT THE BOLLARDS ARE IN PLACE ALL THE TIME TO GUIDE PEDESTRIANS AND MOTORISTS.
THE APPEAL WAS MADE BY PWD ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL OFFICE WHICH IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF THESE TRAFFIC AIDS.
IT FOLLOWED CONTINUAL DAMAGE TO A LARGE NUMBER OF TRAFFIC BOLLARDS AT PEDESTRIAN ISLANDS AND ROAD JUNCTIONS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE HARBOUR.
A PWD SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT LAST YEAR ALONE MORE THAN 3 000 BOLLARDS WERE KNOCKED DOWN BY VEHICLES.
♦HOWEVER, ONLY VERY FEW, WHICH WERE INVOLVED IN SERIOUS TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, WERE REPORTED,♦ HE SAID.
♦THE MAJORITY WERE DISCOVERED BY NIGHT PATROLS OF THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL OFF ICE.♦
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT SAFETY FEATURES WERE INCORPORATED IN THE DESIGN OF THE BOLLARDS TO MINIMISE DAMAGE TO VEHICLES AND INJURY TO DRIVERS IN ACCIDENTS.
UNFORTUNATELY, SOME IRRESPONSIBLE MOTORISTS TOOK ADVANTAGE OF THIS AS MANY OF THE BOLLARDS WERE DAMAGED BY CARS WILFULLY OR CARELESSLY DRIVEN CLOSE TO OR OVER PAVEMENTS OR TRAFFIC ISLANDS.
AT SOME LOCATIONS, HE SAID, THE BOLLARDS WERE HIT SEVERAL TIMES A WEEK.
THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT FOR THE SAFETY OF PEDESTRIANS AND MOTORISTS, THE BOLLARDS, WHICH WERE ILLUMINATED AT NIGHT, MUST BE MAINTAINED IN WORKING CONDITION AT ALL TIME.
HE URGED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO REPORT DAMAGED BOLLARDS THAT COME TO THEIR NOTICE. THE TELEPHONE NUMBERS TO CALL AREi
HONG KONG ISLANDi 5-763125 (24-HOURS SERVICE)
KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERR I TOR IESi
3-644241 EXT. 8 (DURING OFFICE HOURS)
3-644244 (AFTER OFFICE HOURS)
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/6
SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1980
6
DSW OPENS TRAINING CENTRE FOR RETARDED CHILDREN * * * *
REHABILITATION DEVELOPMENT TOOK ANOTHER STEP FORWARD WITH THE OPENING TODAY (SATURDAY) OF HONG KONG’S FIRST PRE-SCHOOL TRAINING CENTRE FOR SEVERELY MENTALLY RETARDED CHILDREN AGED TWO TO SIX YEARS.
THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR THOMAS LEE, THIS MORNING UNVEILED A PLAQUE AT A CEREMONY TO OPEN THE TRAINING CENTRE OPERATED BY THE PO LEUNG KUK IN SAU MAU PING ESTATE.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, MR LEE SAID THE PROJECT WAS IN LINE WITH THE GOVERNMENT’S DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES IN VARIOUS FIELDS OF WELFARE SERVICE TO MEET CHANGING SOCIAL NEEDS.
HE SAID THE PROJECT, FINANCED BY A $400 000 GRANT FROM THE LOTTERIES FUND MADE THROUGH THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, COULD ACCOMMODATE 48 SEVERELY MENTALLY RETARDED CHILDREN OF PRE-SCHOOL AGE.
+THE CENTRE PROVIDES DAY CARE AND PRE-SCHOOL BASIC TRAINING IN BOTH PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEVELOPMENT TO PREPARE THE CHILDREN FOR FURTHER SUITABLE TRAINING LATER 0N+, HE SAID.
OCCUPYING A FLOOR AREA OF 4 800 SQUARE FEET, HE SAID, THE CENTRE IS EQUIPPED WITH VARIOUS FACILITIES INCLUDING ROOMS FOR TRAINING CLASSES, PLAY ACTIVITIES, NURSING CARE AND PHYSIOTHERAPY, AS WELL AS OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND.
MR LEE PRAISED THE PO LEUNG KUK FOR ITS OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS IN SOCIAL WELFARE, PARTICULARLY FOR STARTING THE PRE-SCHOOL TRAINING CENTRE PROJECT.
+BACK IN 1978, THE KUK OPERATED THE FIRST TRAINING CENTRE IN KWAI SHING FOR SEVERELY MENTALLY RETARDED CHILDREN AGED BETWEEN SIX AND 16 YEARS,* HE SAID.
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RENEWAL OF HAWKER LICENCE IN KWAI CHUNG
******
PEOPLE HOLDING ITINERANT HAWKER LICENCES FOR KWAI CHUNG SHOULD RENEW THEIR LICENCES AT THE KWAI CHUNG URBAN SERVICES OFFICE FROM APRIL 1.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES SERVICES DEPARTMENT SAID THE NEW ARRANGEMENT WAS FOR THE CONVENIENCE OF HAWKERS LIVING IN KWAI CHUNG. +THOSE WHO LIVE IN TSUEN WAN SHOULD CONTINUE TO RENEW THEIR LICENCES AT THE TSUEN WAN URBAN SERVICES OFFICE.*
THE KWAI CHUNG URBAN SERVICES OFFICE IS SITUATED AT 31, SHING FONG STREET, 5/F., KWAI CHUNG.
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SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1980
7
PROHIBITED ZONES AT ADMIRALTY STATION *****
THE MTR ADMIRALTY STATION (EAST) BUS TERMINUS, TOGETHER WITH ITS ENTRANCE ROAD FROM HARCOURT ROAD AND ITS SOUTHBOUND EXIT ROAD ONTO QUEENSWAY, AS WELL AS THE STATION’S WEST BUS TERMINUS. WILL BE DESIGNATED +PROHIBITED ZONES* FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY (APRIL 1).
ALL MOTOR VEHICLES, EXCEPT FRANCHISED PUBLIC BUSES AND THOSE AUTHORISED IN WRITING BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT, WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM ENTERING THESE ZONES.
MEANWHILE, THE SECTION OF THE EXIT ROAD OF THE MTR ADMIRALTY STATION (WEST) BUS TERMINUS BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH COTTON TREE DRIVE AND A POINT ABOUT 35 METRES EAST OF THE JUNCTION WILL BE RE-OPENED TO ALL TRAFFIC FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE
SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
WATER CUT * * *
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF PREMISES IN MID-LEVELS ON HONG KONG ISLAND WILL BE TURNED OFF FOR SEVEN HOURS FROM 11 PM ON TUESDAY (APRIL 1) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY FOR NIGHT LEAKAGE TESTS.
THE AREA TO BE AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY LYTTELTON ROAD, BABINGTON ROAD AND OAKLANDS PATH INCLUDING BREEZY PATH, PO YUEN LANE, BREEZY TERRACE, NOS 12-30 BONHAM ROAD, NOS 6A-10 PARK ROAD, AND HON I TON ROAD.
0
FIRING PRACTICE * * * *
RANGE FROM 8 AM^O^ P^DaIlY^WEDNESDAAPRK^MnD^THURSDAY.
RED ™E ‘RE‘ “HE"
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
SUNDAY, iutRCH JO, 1980
CONTE1TTS PAGE NO.
YOUNG MUSICIANS LOCKING FORWARD TO JJEEN'S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS ...............J........................ 1
LOGO FOR NEW TERRITORIES SERVICES DEPARTMENT .................2
THREE VOLUNTEERS RETURN FROM UK TRAINING...................... J
COMMUNITY CENTRE JOR SE2UNG SHUI ............................. 4
FIRST TOY LIBRARY L\ NT OPENS ................................ 5
SNT PRaISES ST JOLN /JIBULaNCE BRIGADE ....................... 6
TRAFFIC RE-ROUTING nT WATER STREET ............................6
WATER CUT IN THREE NT aREhS
7
SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 1980
1
YOUNG MUSICIANS LOOKING FORWARD TO QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
*****
A NUMBER OF YOUTH BANDS AND ORCHESTRAS ARE ENTHUSIASTICALLY REHEARSING FOR THEIR COMING PERFORMANCE IN THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS ON APRIL 21.
THEY WILL PERFORM IN TWO CONCERTS TO BE PRESENTED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE BAND AND THE HONG KONG SCHOOLS MUSIC AND SPEECH ASSOCIATION.
AT 3 PM ON APRIL 21 AT THE MAPLE STREET PLAYGROUND IN SHAM SHU I PO, A 300-STR0NG COMBINED YOUTH BAND, UNDER THE BATON OF MR JOHN CHENG, AND THE POLICE BAND, CONDUCTED BY MR COLIN WOOD, WILL PLAY A PROGRAMME OF LIGHT MUSIC AND MARCHES.
THE PROGRAMME WILL FEATURE MOVIE HITS INCLUDING THE THEME FROM +STAR WARS*, +CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND* AND *SOUND OF MUSIC* AND POPULAR TUNES SUCH AS +TIE A YELLOW RIBBON ROUND THE OLD OAK TREE* AND +PERSIAN SCIMITAR*. THERE WILL ALSO BE A GRAND BAGPIPE DRILL.
AT 8 PM, THE HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND THE •HONG KONG YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA WILL PLAY A MIXED PROGRAMME OF WESTERN AND ORIENTAL MUSIC IN THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL, KOWLOON TONG.
THE ORCHESTRAS WILL BE CONDUCTED BY MR THOMAS Y.S. WANG AND MR TONG LEUNG-TAK FROM THE MUSIC OFFICE.
THE PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE +JOYFUL TIMES*, +GOOD HARVEST*, +SPRING IN TIAN SHAN+, +SAN MEN GAP CAPRICE*, +THREE VERSES OF THE YANG GUAN+, *BOAT SONG*, AND *WATER MUSIC* BY HANDEL AND +POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE MARCH* BY ELGAR.
A BONUS TO THIS +EAST MEETS WEST* PROGRAMME WILL BE A MOVEMENT FROM A PIANO CONCERTO TO BE PERFORMED BY KO SIU-WAI OF HEEP YUNN SCHOOL, WINNER OF THE PIANO CONCERTO CLASS IN THIS YEAR’S SCHOOLS MUSIC FESTIVAL.
THE HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONIC BAND,WHICH WILL APPEAR AT THE COMBINED BAND CONCERT, THE HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND THE HONG KONG YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA ARE MUSIC GROUPS FORMED AND TRAINED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE.
THEIR MEMBERS ARE MAINLY IN THEIR TEENS AND EARLY TWENTIES, SINCE THEIR FORMATION IN 1978, THEY HAVE GAINED WIDE EXPERIENCE BY GIVING PUBLIC CONCERTS OVERSEAS AND LOCALLY.
IN AUGUST 1979, THE HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MADE AN EXTENSIVE CONCERT TOUR IN BRITAIN AND FRANCE AND TOOK PART IN THE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF YOUTH ORCHESTRAS.
/TH£ Y0UTH
SUNDAY, MARCH JO, 1980
2
THE YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA ALSO WON GENERAL ACCLAIM IN 16 CONCERTS THEY GAVE IN BRITAIN AND FRANCE LAST AUGUST.
THE HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONIC BAND MADE ITS DEBUT IN 1978 AT A PROMENADE CONCERT OF THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL YOUTH MUSIC EXCHANGE WITH THE VISITING COUNTY OF AVON SCHOOLS ORCHESTRA. IT HAS SINCE PLAYED IN OVER 50 CONCERTS.
THESE THREE YOUNG MUSIC GROUPS ARE VERY POPULAR WITH LOCAL AUDIENCES AND HAVE PARTICIPATED IN MOST OF THE MAJOR MUSICAL EVENTS, INCLUDING THE TUEN MUN FESTIVAL IN 1978, THE HONG KONG ARTS FESTIVAL 1980 AND THE SECOND TSUEN WAN ARTS FESTIVAL THIS YEAR.
THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS NEXT MONTH OFFER YET ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO THESE ASPIRING YOUNG MUSICIANS TO DISPLAY THEIR TALENTS.
FREE ADMISSION TICKETS FOR THE OPEN-AIR CONCERT AT MAPLE STREET PLAYGROUND CAN NOW BE OBTAINED FROM THE SUB-OFFICES OF THE MUSIC OFFICE, MOST CITY DISTRICT OFFICES. TSUEN WAN AND SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICES, AND BRANCHES OF TOM LEE PIANO COMPANY AND TSANG FOOK PIANO COMPANY.
ADMISSION TICKETS AT S3 AND t5 FOR THE EVENING CONCERT IN THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE VARIOUS BRANCHES OF THE TWO PIANO COMPANIES AND THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE TWO CONCERTS CAN BE MADE TO THE MUSIC OFFICE IN THE HK ARTS CENTRE, WAN CHAI (TELi 5-283257).
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LOGO FOR NEW TERRITORIES SERVICES DEPARTMENT ******
THE NEW TERRITORIES SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAS PRODUCED A LOGO FOR EASY IDENTIFICATION BY THE PUBLIC OF THE VARIOUS SERVICES IT PROVIDES.
THE NEW LOGO WITH THE CHINESE CHARACTER ’URBAN’ IN A BOX WAS DESIGNED BY THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND WILL BE USED ON VEHICLES OF THE DEPARTMENT AS WELL AS VARIOUS SIGNBOARDS DISPLAYED AT THE ENTRANCES OF PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS OPERATED BY NTSD.
A NTSD SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE DESIGN HAD ALSO INCORPORATED THE ENGLISH NAME OF THE DEPARTMENT.
HE SAID, +THE DOT AT THE TOP OF THE CHARACTER HAS BEEN SLIGHTLY STRETCHED TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF AN ’N’ WHEREAS THE HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL STROKES FORM THE LETTER 'T’.
+THESE- LETTERS, TOGETHER WITH THE DOUBLE 'S’ PLACED SYMMETRICALLY ON THE SIDES OF THE VERTICAL STROKE MAKE UP THE ABBREVIATION OF ’NEW TERRITORIES SERV ICES’.+
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SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 1980
3
THREE VOLUNTEERS RETURN FROM UK TRAINING
Mil
LOCAL YOUNG MEN FOND OF SOLDIERING AND WITH LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT POTENTIAL MAY NOW HAVE THE CHANCE TO GO TO THE ROYAL MILITARY ACADEMY IN SANDHURST, AFTER JOINING THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT (THE VOLUNTEERS).
THREE CADET OFFICERS OF THE REGIMENT, DR ALVIN YEUNG, IN HIS OWN TIME AN ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON- PAUL YUEN, AN ENGINEER, AND MICHAEL LEUNG, AN INSURANCE COMPANY MANAGER, HAVE RECENTLY RETURNED FROM A TWO-WEEK OFFICER CADET TRAINING COURSE DEVISED FOR UK’S TERRITORIAL ARMY OFFICERS. THEY HAVE SINCE RECEIVED THEIR COMMISSION AS SECOND LIEUTENANTS.
THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME IN THE REGIMENT’S HISTORY THAT LOCAL VOLUNTEERS WERE SENT TO SANDHURST.
THERE, THEY WERE FURTHER DRILLED IN THE ESSENTIALS OF A GOOD ARMY OFFICER — LEADERSHIP, MANAGERIAL SKILLS, INITIATIVE, PHYSICAL FITNESS AND GENERAL MILITARY TECHNIQUES.
♦IT WAS ALSO A VERY USEFUL COURSE FOR THE OFFICERS THEMSELVES AS IT FURTHER DEVELOPED THEIR SELF-CONFIDENCE AND COMMONSENSE AND BROADENED THEIR OUTLOOK,+ THEIR COMMANDING OFFICER, LT COL EDWARD PEPPER SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
HE WAS GLAD THAT HIS MEN HAVE HAD THE BENEFIT OF GOING THROUGH ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST ESTEEMED TRAINING ESTABLISHMENTS FOR ARMY OFFICERS AND THAT IT HAS MADE A MARKED DIFFERENCE TO THEIR OVERALL ■MILITARY ABILITY.
♦THE REGIMENT WILL PROFIT BY THE MODERN MILITARY KNOWLEDGE THEY GLEANED FROM THE COURSE AND WILL IMPART TO THEIR FELLOW SOLDIERS DURING THE REST OF THEIR ACTIVE SERVICE. THEIR EMPLOYERS TOO WILL INDIRECTLY GAIN BY HAVING ON THEIR STAFF A MUCH MORE MATURE AND EFFICIENT EMPLOYEE.
♦FOUR MORE MEMBERS OF THE VOLUNTEERS ARE LIKELY TO BE SENT TO THE SANDHURST OFFICER CADET TRAINING COURSE BY THE END OF THIS YEAR.+ HE ADDED.
IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE A HIGHER MILITARY STANDARD, THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT IS SENDING MORE OF ITS PART-TIME SOLDIERS FROM ALL RANKS TO OTHER COMMONWEALTH COUNTRIES INCLUDING FIJI, MALAYSIA, BRUNEI, AND AUSTRALIA, FOR DIFFERENT TRAINING COURSES AND FOR ATTACHMENT TO THE REGULAR ARMIES IN EXERCISES.
A LANCE CORPORAL IS NOW TAKING PART IN A SEVEN-WEEK EXERCISE WITH GURKHA SOLDIERS IN AUSTRALIA. TWO LOCAL VOLUNTEERS HAVE JUST RETURNED FROM A TWO-WEEK EXERCISE WITH THE 7TH GURKHA RIFLES IN BRUNEI. LAST YEAR TWO OTHERS ATTENDED A SMALL ARMS COURSE AND A SIGNAL OFFICER’S COURSE IN BRITAIN.
LOCALLY, ANOTHER SIX WILL ATTEND THE TOUGH OUTWARD BOUND COURSE THIS YEAR.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE INTERESTED IN BECOMING HONG KONG’S OWN VOLUNTEER SOLDIERS, THE REGIMENT WILL LAUNCH A RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN THIS AUGUST, TO BE FOLLOWED BY A TRAINING CAMP IN DECEMBER.
/Hz«,_»kUITS V. ... • • •. .
SUNDAY, MARCH 50, 1980
4
RECRUITS WILL BE TRAINED IN A VARIETY OF MILITARY SUBJECTS, INCLUDING MAP READING, WEAPON HANDLING, DRIVING, RADIO OPERATING, FIELD CRAFT AND HELICOPTER DRILLS.
THIS REWARDING AND INTERESTING PART-TIME CAREER IS OPEN TO WELL-EDUCATED YOUNG MEN ABLE TO SPEAK ENGLISH, Or NOT LESS THAN 1 7 METRES (5 FT 4 IN) IN HEIGHT AND 50 KG (110 LBS) IN WEIGHT, AVAILABLE FOR TRAINING TWO EVENINGS AND ONE WEEKEND EACH MONTH, IN ADDITION TO TWO 7-DAY CAMPS EACH YEAR.
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community centre FOR SHEUNG SHU I ft X * * ft ft
A COMMUNITY CENTRE WILL BE BUILT SHORTLY IN SHEUNG SHU I TO ENABLE MORE PEOPLE TO TAKE PART IN SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES.
IT WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING SOCIAL CENTRE, THE FACILITIES OF WHICH ARE NOW INADEQUATE.
THE NEW CENTRE WILL BE SITUATED ON A 2 OOO-SQUARE-METRE SITE NEAR THE SHEUNG SHUI RAILWAY STATION.
WORK ON THE PROJECT INCLUDES THE BUILDING OF A HALL OVER A COVERED PLAY AREA AND A SIX-STOREY ANNEXE.
THERE WILL BE A STAGE, DRESSING ROOMS AND A BALCONY IN THE HALL WHICH WILL SEAT ABOUT 1 000 PEOPLE.
THE ANNEXE WILL PROVIDE ACCOMMODATION FOR A LIBRARY, EXHIBITION AREA, OFFICES, NURSERY, COFFEE BAR AND ACTIVITY ROOM FOR CHILDREN, YOUTHS AND ADULTS.
THE PROJECT FORMS PART OF THE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME OF SHEK WU HUI NEW TOWN.
A PWD SPOKESMAN SAID THAT WORK ON THE PROJECT WOULD START IN MAY AND BE COMPLETED IN THE MIDDLE OF NEXT YEAR.
TENDERS FOR THE WORK ARE BEING INVITED BY PWD’S ARCHITECTURAL OFFICE.
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SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 1990
5
FIRST TOY LIBRARY IN NT OPENS * * * * X
THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR AUGUSTINE CHUI KAM, TODAY (SUNDAY) OPENED THE FIRST TOY LIBRARY IN THE NEW TERRITORIES AT TAI HING ESTATE, TUEN MUN.
THE TOY LIBRARY, THE SECOND IN HONG KONG, HAS BEEN SET UP BY THE HONG KONG JAYCETTES IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE FINNISH MISSIONARY SOCIETY TO DEVELOP THE SKILL AND INTELLIGENCE OF CHILDREN AND TO ENHANCE THEIR SPIRIT OF CO-OPERATION.
IT OCCUPIES AN AREA OF % SQUARE METRES IN THE ESTATE’S TAI HING CHRISTIAN YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S SERVICE ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF HONG SHING HOUSE.
WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE CHAIRMAN OF TUEN MUN RURAL COMMITTEE, MR LAU WONG-FAT, IT WILL BE RUN BY THE SOCIETY ON A NON-PROFIT-MAKING BASIS.
LOCAL TOY MANUFACTURERS HAVE DONATED 3 000 ITEMS TO THE LIBRARY WHICH WILL PROVIDE FACILITIES TO MEET THE RECREATIONAL NEEDS OF CHILDREN IN THE ESTATE.
SPEAKING AT A CEREMONY TO MARK THE LIBRARY’S OPENING, MR CHUI SAID WHILE THE GOVERNMENT HAD TRIED TO MEET THE MULTIFARIOUS NEEDS OF THE NEW RESIDENTS IN THE PLANNING AND PROVISION OF BASIC REQUIREMENTS OF A COMMUNITY, THERE WAS A CLEAR DEMAND FOR SERVICES FOR CHILDREN WHO WERE SETTLING IN.
♦IT IS GRATIFYING TO SEE SUCH A VAST VARIETY OF TOYS HERE, WHICH I FEEL WOULD NOT ONLY DELIGHT, BUT ALSO EDUCATE THE CHILDREN OF TAI HING.+ HE SAID.
MR CHUI SAIDt +A TOY IS TO A SMALL CHILD AS A STORY BOOK IS TO AN ADOLESCENT AND A MAGAZINE OR NOVELS TO A GROWN-UP: IT PROVIDES MOMENTS OF PLEASURE AND DIVERSION, IT CAUSES AN EXPERIENCE TO HAPPEN TO THE SUBJECT AND IT STIMULATES A RESPONSE.
♦TO A CHILD, I IMAGINE, A TOY SIGNIFIES JOY AND HAPPINESS. IF HE CAN TOUCH IT, PLAY WITH IT, BANG IT ABOUT OR EVEN THROW IT AROUND, HE FEELS HAPPY.+
IT WAS UP TO RESPONSIBLE GROWN-UPS, INCLUDING TOY MANUFACTURERS, PARENTS AND ORGANISERS OF COMMUNITY SERVICES, TO ENSURE THAT THE TOYS WERE OF A SUITABLE HYGIENIC STANDARD FROM BOTH THE PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL POINTS OF VIEW, HE SAID.
THE FIRST TOY LIBRARY IN HONG KONG, ASLO INITIATED BY THE HONG KONG JAYCETTES, WAS SET UP IN 1977 AT TSZ WAN SHAN ESTATE,
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SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 1980
6
SNT PRAISES ST JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE ft ft ft ft ft
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES, TODAY (SUNDAY) PRAISED THE ST JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE WHICH HE SAID HAD BEEN PLAYING AN OUTSTANDING ROLE IN PROVIDING EXCELLENT FIRST-AID AND AMBULANCE SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY OF HONG KONG, INCLUDING THE NEW TERRITORIES, SINCE ITS ESTABLISHMENT IN 1915.
MR AKERS-JONES WAS SPEAKING AT A PARADE OF THE MAINLAND AREA OF THE ST JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE HELD ON THE SEK KONG AIRSTRIP.
THE PARADE WAS PART OF AN ANNUAL TRAINING FIELD DAY ORGANISED BY THE BRIGADE’S AMBULANCE AND NURSING DIVISIONS IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE ARMY.
FIELD DAYS ARE HELD TO IMPROVE STANDARDS OF FIRST-AID AND RESCUE TECHNIQUES BY PROVIDING MEMBERS WITH PRACTICAL TRAINING.
MR AKERS-JONES SAID IT WAS PARTICULARLY ENCOURAGING TO KNOW THAT THE BRIGADE’S ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES WERE BEING EXTENDED INTO THE FAST GROWING NEW TOWNS.
♦FOR IT IS MOST IMPORTANT THAT YOU, AND SIMILAR ORGANISATIONS, PREPARE A SYSTEMATIC PROGRAMME OF EXPANSION IN PACE WITH THE GROWTH OF POPULATION,* HE SAID.
TODAY’S EVENTS STARTED WITH FIRST-AID AND DRILL COMPETITIONS IN WHICH 350 BRIGADE OFFICERS AND MEMBERS TOOK PART. IN THE AFTERNOON, THE ROYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPS GAVE DEMONSTRATIONS OF LIGHT RESCUE, BATTLE-FIELD AND LAND CASUALTY EVACUATIONS.
MR AKERS-JONES SAID THE PERFORMANCE OF PARTICIPANTS IN THE COMPETITIONS ^DEMONSTRATES THAT THEY ARE WELL EQUIPPED BY THEIR TRAINING TO MAKE A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY AND THOSE IN NEED.* HE SAID THE PARADE GAVE HIM MUCH CONFIDENCE THAT MANY YOUNG PEOPLE IN HONG KONG WERE READY TO DEVOTE THEMSELVES TO THE SERVICE OF OTHERS.
ASSISTED BY THE BRIGADE’S MAINLAND AREA COMMISSIONER, DR DAVID MOK, MR AKERS-JONES LATER PRESENTED TROPHIES TO COMPETITION WINNERS.
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TRAFFIC RE-ROUTING AT WATER STREET ft ft ft ft
A SECTION OF WATER STREET BETWEEN DES VOEUX ROAD WEST AND QUEEN’S ROAD WEST WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND FROM 10 AM ON WEDNESDAY (APRIL 2) TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW IN THE AREA.
TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
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SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 1980
7
WATER CUT IN THREE NT AREAS ft ft ft ft
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF PREMISES IN SHEUNG SHU I, FANLING AND SAI KUNG WILL BE INTERRUPTED ON TUESDAY (APRIL 1) TO FACILITATE WATER MAINS WORK.
IN SHEUNG SHU I AND FANLING, SUPPLY WILL BE TURNED OFF FOR EIGHT HOURS FROM 10 PM THAT DAY TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY.
THE PREMISES TO BE AFFECTED ARE ALONG TAI PO ROAD (FANLING SECTION) BETWEEN FANLING ROUNDABOUT AND SHEUNG SHU I CROSS ROADCASTLE PEAK ROAD BETWEEN SHEUNG SHU I CROSS ROAD AND LOK MA CHAU- AND FAN KAM ROAD BETWEEN SHEUNG SHU I CROSS ROAD AND TSIU KENG VILLAGE.
IN SAI KUNG, SUPPLY WILL BE TURNED OFF FOR EIGHT HOURS FROM 9.30 AM TO 5.30 PM ON TUESDAY.
THE AFFECTED PREMISES AND VILLAGES ARE ALONG CLEAR WATER BAY ROAD BETWEEN A KUNG WAN AND HIRAM’S HIGHWAY, INCLUDING TAI PO TSAI VILLAGE- HIRAM’S HIGHWAY BETWEEN CLEAR WATER BAY ROAD AND PO TUNG ROAD, INCLUDING TUI MIN HOI, AND SAI KUNG MARKET AREAS.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-233191
MONDAY, MaRCH J1, 1980
CONTENTS PaGE NO,
CAS steps up training for ITS MEMBERS ....................... 1
TV FIIMS TC PROMOTE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY ....................... 2
MORE BUILDING PLJiS .J>PROVED LAST MONTH..................... 3
SNT TO OPEN HEUNG YEE KUK HaLL............................... 4
TONKIN STREET TC BE IMPROVED FuR RCaD USERS ................. 4
TRAFFIC aRRalXSEtiENTS Hi Tai W-:G XaD....................... 5
SaLT rfaTER CUT
5
MONDAY, MARCH 31, 1980
1
CAS STEPS UP TRAINING FOR ITS MEMBERS *****
THE CIVIL AID SERVICES IS STEPPING UP ITS TRAINING PROGRAMME TO PREPARE ITS MEMBERS FOR ALL CONTINGENCIES.
A SERIES OF COURSES ARE BEING CONDUCTED AT THE GOVERNMENT DOCKYARD IN YAU MA TEI DESIGNED TO ACQUAINT CAS MEMBERS WITH THE LATEST ANTI-OIL POLLUTION EQUIPMENT AND HOW TO USE IT.
ANOTHER TOUGH COURSE THAT HAS BROUGHT SOME OF THEM FACE TO FACE WITH RUGGED MOUNTAINS IN WALES AND NORTH ENGLAND, TEACHES THEM TO COPE WITH SITUATIONS WHERE THEY HAVE TO EVACUATE AND MINISTER TO INJURED AND LOST HILL WALKERS.
MR CHAN CHUN-YING, PRINCIPAL TRAINING OFFICER, NOTED THAT WITH MORE PEOPLE TAKING TO WATER SPORTS, THERE WAS NOW MORE CAS TRAINING IN THESE ACTIVITIES, PARTICULARLY IN THE SAFETY ASPECTS CF WATER RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE CADETS.
THESE INCLUDE CANOE BUILDING, CANOEING, SAILING, SNORKEL DIVING, SWIMMING AND LIFE SAVING.
ON LAND, COURSES SUCH AS REFUGEE CAMP MANAGEMENT, PLANNING MOUNTAIN TREKKING EXPEDITIONS, CAMP CRAFT, RADIO COMMUNICATIONS, FOREST FIRE PRECAUTIONS, COUNTRYSIDE MANAGEMENT, VEHICLE REPAIR AND LORRY DRIVING ARE ORGANISED FOR THE MORE EXPERIENCED.
TRAINING NOT ONLY PROVIDES CAS VOLUNTEERS WITH BASIC TECHNICAL SKILLS, IT ALSO DEVELOPS THEIR INITIATIVE AND PUTS THEM IN READINESS FOR TASKS WHICH THEY MAY HAVE TO BE CALLED TO PERFORM AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY OR NIGHT AND NO MATTER HOW BAD THE WEATHER CONDITIONS, MR CHAN SAID.
FOR CAS OFFICERS AND SUPERVISORS, THERE IS IN ADDITION INSTRUCTION IN SUPERVISORY MANAGEMENT, TACTICAL DEPLOYMENT AND ADMINISTRATION OF FIELD UNITS.
SUCH DIVERSE OPPORTUNITIES FOR LEARNING NEW THINGS AND THE PROSPECT OF SERVING THE COMMUNITY IS SO APPEALING TO MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY THAT THE CAS CONSTANTLY HAS OVER 500 ADULT APPLICANTS WAITING TO FILL THE COMPARATIVELY FEW VACANCIES WHICH OCCUR EACH YEAR.
THERE ARE, HOWEVER, MORE CHANCES TO JOIN ITS CADET SERVICE WHICH HAS A LARGER TURNOVER OF MEMBERS.
♦THERE COMES A TIME WHEN THE CADETS FEEL THEY HAVE TO GIVE MORE TIME TO ACADEMIC STUDIES WHEN THEY MOVE FROM ADOLESCENCE TO MANHOOD, AND WHEN THEY HAVE TO START LOOKING FOR JOBS IN THE ADULT WORLD,* MR CHAN SAID.
♦NEVERTHELESS, THEIR CAS TRAINING IS AN INVALUABLE ASSET IN THEIR PREPARATIONS FOR ADULTHOOD AND THEIR QUALIFICATIONS OFTEN ENABLE THEM TO COMPETE MORE FAVOURABLY WITH OTHER YOUNGSTERS APPLYING TO JOIN THE DISCIPLINED AND UNIFORMED SERVICES,* HE ADDED.
/AT PR£S^T ...
MONDAY, MARCH J1, 198O
2.
AT PRESENT THE SERVICE HAS 2 850 ADULT MEMBERS WHO WERE RECRUITED MAINLY IN THEIR LATE TEENS AND UP TO THEIR MID-TWENTIES. WITH FURTHER EXPANSION INTO THE NEW TERRITORIES, THE CAS HOPES TO RAISE THIS CEILING PROGRESSIVELY TO 3 500 BY THE END OF 1981. THE CADET CORPS, NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR, HAS SOME 1 780 MEMBERS.
WHILE THERE ARE FEW REQUIREMENTS NEEDED FOR CADET APPLICANTS, ADULT VOLUNTEERS ARE PREFERRED IF THEY POSSESS SPECIAL SKILLS WHICH WILL HELP IN LEADERSHIP, RESCUE, FIRST AID AND YOUTH WORK.
HOWEVER, IF A RECRUIT DOES NOT POSSESS ANY OF THESE SKILLS THE CAS UNDERTAKE TO GIVE THE VOLUNTEER SUFFICIENT INSTRUCTION TO BECOME A COMPETENT AND EFFICIENT CIVIL AID MEMBER.
+WHATEVER BACKGROUND THEY COME FROM,* MR CHAN SAID, +THEY JOIN THE SERVICE WITH ONLY ONE AIM — TO PREPARE THEMSELVES IN ORDER TO CONTRIBUTE THEIR SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY IN ANY TIME OF NEED OR ADVERSITY.*
LAST YEAR WAS ONE OF THE BUSIEST CAS HAD ON RECORD, TAKING ON OVER 300 OPERATIONAL TASKS, INCLUDING 100 BY ITS CADETS. THESE INCLUDED TIME-CONSUMING AND DEDICATED WORK HELPING WITH VIETNAMESE REFUGEES, AND ONEROUS DUTIES PROTECTING OUR COUNTRYSIDE AGAINST THE RAVAGES OF FOREST FIRE.
BESIDES EMERGENCY DUTIES, THE SERVICE ALSO PROVIDED ASSISTANCE IN CROWD CONTROL AT LARGE PUBLIC FUNCTIONS AND DURING COMMUNITY CHARITY DRIVES, LECTURES ON OUTDOOR SAFETY TO SCHOOLS, AND ENTERTAINS THE PUBLIC WITH ITS MOTORCYCLE AND BICYCLE DEMONSTRATION TEAMS AND HIGHLY PROFICIENT BAND. TRAINING IS ALWAYS GEARED TO HONG KONG’S OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS, HE CONCLUDED.
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TV FILMS TO PROMOTE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY * * * *
THE FACTORY CONJUNCTION WITH
INSPECTORATE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, IN
, TH£ GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES, HAS PRODUCED FOUR SHORT TELEVISION FILMS TO PROMOTE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY.
£ACH CL,P» IN bOTH CHINESE AND ENGLISH, DEALS WITH A SPECIFIC ASPECT OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND FEATURES THE ♦ INDUSTRI AL SAFETY GIRL+.
THE FIRST COMMERCIAL ON SAFE USE OF ELECTRICITY IS NOW BEING SHOWN ON LOCAL TELEVISION STATIONS. THE OTHER THREE WILL BE RELEASED NEXT MONTH.
THE SECOND CLIP DEALS WITH CONFINED SPACE SAFETY, EMPHASISING THE NEED FOR WORKERS TO USE SAFETY GEAR, SUCH AS BREATHING APPARATUS SAFETY HARNESS AND HELMET, BEFORE ENTERING A CONFINED SPACE.
ANOTHER CLIP FOCUSES THE EFFECT OF INDUSTRIAL NOISE ON PEOPLE WHILE THE FOURTH FEATURES THE +INDUSTRIAL SAFETY GIRL* GIVING GENERAL HINTS ON SAFETY.
MONDAY, MARCH 31, 1980
3
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) URGED WORKERS TO WATCH THE FILMS.
+WE HAVE SPARED NO EFFORTS IN PROMOTING INDUSTRIAL SAFETY. IT IS HOPED THAT THE MESSAGES CARRIED BY THESE TELEVISION FILMS WILL REACH ALL WORKERS AND THEIR FAMILIES,* HE ADDED.
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MORE BUILDING PLANS APPROVED LAST MONTH ******
THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT APPROVED 96 NEW BUILDING PLANS IN FEBRUARY, COMPARED WITH 67 IN THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR.
OF THESE NEW PLANS, 36 WERE FOR BUILDINGS ON HONG KONG ISLAND, 19 IN KOWLOON AND 41 IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THEY INCLUDED THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE IN SHA TIN AND A SPORTS CENTRE IN CAROLINE HILL, A SCHOOL BUILDING IN WAH FU ROAD, A SLAUGHTER HOUSE IN KWAI CHUNG, AND AN ELECTRICITY SUBSTATION AT DYER AVENUE.
THE TOTAL DECLARED COST OF NEW BUILDINGS COMPLETED DURING THE MONTH WAS $213.88 MILLION, COMPARED WITH $107.95 MILLION IN FEBRUARY LAST YEAR.
THE USABLE FLOOR AREA OF NEW BUILDINGS COMPLETED AMOUNTED TO 188 034.8 SQUARE METRES, COMPRISING 125 942.2 SQUARE METRES OF NON-DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA AND 62 092.6 SQUARE METRES OF DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA.
THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE ALSO GAVE CONSENT FOR WORK TO START ON 53 NEW PROJECTS, INCLUDING A SCHOOL HALL AND A SWIMMING POOL IN STUBBS ROAD, AN OFFICE BLOCK IN THE POLYTECHNIC, AN AUDITORIUM IN THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY, A POWER STATION ON LAMMA ISLAND AND AN ELECTRICITY SUBSTATION AT TAI YUEN ESTATE, TAI PO.
A TOTAL OF 29 NEWLY COMPLETED BUILDINGS WERE CERTIFIED FOR OCCUPATION DURING THE MONTH, INCLUDING A BLOCK OF SENIOR STAFF QUARTERS AT THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY AND A CHILDREN’S CENTRE AT NAM HANG, TAI PO.
THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE ALSO ASSENTED TO THE DEMOLITION OF 183 BUILDINGS.
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MONDAY, MARCH 31, 1980
NOTE TO EDITORSi
SNT TO OPEN HEUNG YEE KUK HALL *****
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR DAVID AKERS-JONES WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING OF A $750 000 HALL AT THE HEUNG YEE KUK HEADQUARTERS AT 4 PM TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE NEW HALL IS NEXT TO THE KUK’S OFFICE AT 47 CUMBERLAND ROAD, KOWLOON TONG.
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND MEMBERS OF YOUR STAFF TO COVER THE EVENT. MR DONALD STRANGE OF THE NEW TERRITORIES ADM IN I STRAT ON b INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST THE PRESS.
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TONKIN STREET TO BE IMPROVED FOR ROAD USERS * * * *
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT IS TO REBUILD A SECTION OF TONKIN STREET BETWEEN CHEUNG SHA WAN ROAD AND LAI CHI KOK ROAD.
TENDERS FOR THE WORK ARE BEING INVITED BY THE HIGHWAYS OFFICE OF PWD.
MR T.D. ARMOUR, CHIEF HIGHWAY ENGINEER. SAID THAT WORK ON THE PROJECT WOULD INVOLVE THE RE-CONSTRUCTION OF THIS SECTION OF THE ROAD TO A DUAL THREE-LANE CONCRETE CARRIAGEWAY, PART OF WHICH WOULD SPAN THE EXISTING NULLAH.
FOOTWAYS AND AMENITY AREAS WOULD BE PROVIDED ON BOTH SIDES OF THE ROAD.
ALSO INCLUDED IN THE CONTRACT IS THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUS TERMINUS IN TONKIN STREET NEAR LAI KOK PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE.
ON COMPLETION, MR ARMOUR SAID, THIS NEW AND WIDER ROAD TOGETHER WITH THE NEW BUS TERMINUS WOULD SERVE RESIDENTS OF THE NEARBY HOUSING ESTATES AND WOULD IMPROVE TRAFFIC CONDITIONS.
WORK ON THE PROJECT WILL START IN JULY AND WILL TAKE ABOUT 15 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
THE WORK HAS BEEN DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTION WILL BE SUPERVISED BY THE HIGHWAYS (KOWLOON) DIVISION OF THE HIGHWAYS OFFICE. »
MONDAY, MARCH 31, 1980
5
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN TAI HANG ROAD
*****
THE SECTION OF TAI HANG ROAD BETWEEN THE STUBBS ROAD ROUNDABOUT AND THE JUNCTION WITH BLUE POOL ROAD WILL BE CLOSED BETWEEN 12.30 AM AND 5.30 AM ON APRIL 2, 3 AND 4 TO FACILITATE CONSTRUCTION WORK IN THE AREA.
DURING THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE, MOTORISTS MAY USE STUBBS ROAD AS AN ALTERNATIVE ROUTE.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
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SALT WATER CUT * * *
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF AREAS IN KOWLOON WILL BE TURNED OFF FROM 9.30 AM TO 11 PM ON WEDNESDAY (APRIL 2) TO FACILITATE REPAIR WORKS.
THE AREAS TO BE AFFECTED ARE HUNG HOM, TO KWA WAN, KOWLOON TONG, KOWLOON CITY, WANG TAU HOM ESTATE, LOK FU ESTATE, TUNG TAU ESTATE AND WONG TAI SIN ESTATE.
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