DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
$2.6-BILLION WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION CONTRACT SIGNED ............... 1
ADDITIONAL LOCAL FIXED TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORKS ................... 2
HK MAINTAINS CLOSE BUSINESS TIES WITH CHINA ......................... 3
LEGCO WILL MAKE BEST DECISION ON REFORMS ............................ 4
ATTESTATION OF CONTRACTORS TO BE REMOVED ............................ 5
APPOINTMENTS TO INDUSTRY AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT BOARD ........... 6
TWO GOVT LOTS FOR SALE BY AUCTION ................................... 7
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ................................................ 8
LEGCO MEETS ON WEDNESDAY ............................................ 8
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY ............................................... 9
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .......... 9
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1993
1
$2.6-BILLION WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION CONTRACT SIGNED
*****
THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION PROJECT TOOK ANOTHER STEP FORWARD WITH THE SIGNING OF A $2.6 BILLION CONTRACT TODAY (MONDAY).
THE CENTRAL TENDER BOARD AWARDED THE ’’WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION NORTHERN AREA PHASE II” CONTRACT TO A JOINT VENTURE FORMED BY FOUR LOCAL AND OVERSEAS COMPANIES - LEIGHTON CONTRACTORS PTY LTD, CHINA STATE CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING CORPORATION, VAN OORD ACZ AND LAU CHEUNG KEE MARINE ENGINEERING LTD - WHICH SUBMITTED THE LOWEST TENDER.
THE CONTRACT FORMS A MAJOR PART OF ONE OF THE 10 AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME PROJECTS.
IT WAS SIGNED BY THE DIRECTOR OF TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT, MR C K CHOW, AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CONTRACTOR.
CONTRACT WORKS WILL BEGIN THIS MONTH FOR COMPLETION IN FEBRUARY 1996.
THE WORKS INCLUDE THE COMPLETION OF THE REMAINING RECLAMATION IN THE NORTHERN AREA AND OTHER MAJOR ITEMS, WHICH COMPRISE:
- RECLAMATION OF 90 HECTARES OF SEABED AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF ABOUT 800 METRES OF SEAWALL AT WEST KOWLOON;
- RECLAMATION AND PIERS FOR A GOVERNMENT DOCKYARD ON STONECUTTERS ISLAND;
- EXTENSION OF MAJOR DRAINAGE CULVERTS ACROSS THE RECLAMATION; AND
- LANDSCAPING TO THE BUFFER ZONES ADJACENT TO MEI FOO SUN CHUEN AND NAM CHEONG ESTATE AND ROAD AND DRAINAGE WORKS.
THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION IS ONE OF THE SEVEN PROJECTS IN THE ACP WHICH WILL BE FUNDED BY THE GOVERNMENT AS PUBLIC' WORKS.
THE RECLAMATION ALONG THE WEST KOWLOON WATERFRONT FROM YAU MA TEI TO LAI CHI KOK WILL PROVIDE ABOUT 330 HECTARES OF LAND FOR TRANSPORT LINKS FOR THE NEW AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK.
IN ADDITION, THE PROJECT WILL PROVIDE LAND FOR VARIOUS COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL USES AS WELL AS OPEN SPACE FOR RECREATIONAL PURPOSES.
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY I, 1993
2 -
ADDITIONAL LOCAL FIXED TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORKS
******
THE POSTMASTER GENERAL AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY, MR M PAGL1AR1, ANNOUNCED TODAY (MONDAY) THAT SEVEN PROPOSALS HAD BEEN RECEIVED FROM CONSORTIA WITH BOTH LOCAL AND OVERSEAS INTERESTS FOR THE OPERATION OF THE NEW FIXED TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK SERVICES IN HONG KONG.
”WE ARE SATISFIED WITH THE RESPONSE FROM THE TELECOMMUNICATION INDUSTRY. THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF NEW FIXED TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORKS ARE LARGE-SCALE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS WHICH REQUIRE LONG-TERM COMMITMENT FROM INVESTORS.
’’THIS SHOWS THAT THEY HAVE CONFIDENCE IN THE MARKET POTENTIAL AND THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG,” MR PAGLIAR1 SAID.
"THE PROPOSALS RECEIVED WILL BE EVALUATED CAREFULLY AGAINST A SET OF CRITERIA INCLUDING FINANCIAL SOUNDNESS AND INVESTMENT, TECHNICAL SOUNDNESS, MANAGERIAL AND TECHNICAL EXPERTISE, TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION, NEW SERVICES TO BE OFFERED, CUSTOMER SERVICES AND CHARGES, IMPLEMENTATION PLAN, MINIMISATION OF DISRUPTION TO TRAFFIC, ETC."
A FORMAL ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS) IS
EXPECTED TO BE MADE IN THE MIDDLE OF THIS YEAR, HE SAID.
THE GOVERNMENT HAS ADOPTED A MARKET-DR I VEN APPROACH IN
LICENSING THE NEW NETWORK OPERATORS.
"IN MAKING A DECISION ON THE NUMBER OF NEW LICENCES TO BE GRANTED IN THIS EXERCISE, WE WILL HAVE REGARD TO THE TYPES OF SERVICES PROPOSED BY THE CONSORTIA, THE FINDINGS OF MARKET AND ECONOMIC STUDIES CONDUCTED BY THEM AND OUR ASSESSMENT OF THE MARKET, TECHNICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS," MR PAGLIARI SAID.
IN SEPTEMBER LAST YEAR THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY PUBLISHED A NOTICE IN THE GAZETTE INVITING INTERESTED PARTIES TO SUBMIT PROPOSALS TO THE GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE AND OPERATE ADDITIONAL LOCAL FIXED NETWORK SERVICES IN HONG KONG.
THE INVITATION FOLLOWS THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY TO LIBERALISE LOCAL FIXED NETWORK SERVICES.
AT PRESENT, HONG KONG TELEPHONE COMPANY (HKTC) HAS AN EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE UNDER THE TELEPHONE ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE LOCAL VOICE TELEPHONE SERVICE.
THE GOVERNMENT HAS ANNOUNCED THAT THE FRANCHISE WOULD NOT BE RENEWED WHEN IT EXPIRES IN JUNE 1995 BUT WOULD BE REPLACED BY A NONEXCLUSIVE LICENCE.
ONE OR MORE ADDITIONAL LOCAL FIXED NETWORK SERVICE OPERATORS WILL BE LICENSED TO COMPETE WITH HKTC ON THE PROVISION OF NONFRANCHISED SERVICES (SUCH AS DATA AND FAX) BEFORE JUNE 1995, AND LOCAL VOICE TELEPHONE SERVICES THEREAFTER.
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1993
3
HK MAINTAINS CLOSE BUSINESS TIES WITH CHINA *****
THE CURRENT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BRITAIN AND CHINA OVER THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTIONS IN HONG KONG IN 1995 IS NATURALLY CAUSING SOME ANXIETIES IN HONG KONG BUT BUSINESS TIES BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA HAVE BEEN LARGELY UNAFFECTED, THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR T H CHAU SAID.
SPEAKING AT A WORKSHOP ON CHINA AND HONG KONG AT THE WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM HELD IN DAVOS, SWITZERLAND TODAY (MONDAY), MR CHAU SAID AT THE END OF THE DAY ALL PARTIES CONCERNED HAD A COMMON INTEREST IN PROMOTING HONG KONG’S PROSPERITY AND STABILITY.
HE SAID HONG KONG PROVIDED 80 PER CENT OF GUANGDONG’S FOREIGN INVESTMENT, AS WELL AS EMPLOYMENT FOR THREE MILLION PEOPLE AND IT WAS THE SOURCE OF AROUND ONE THIRD OF CHINA’S FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS.
"AND AT THE SAME TIME, CHINA HAS MASSIVE INVESTMENTS IN HONG KONG, INCLUDING MAJOR HOLDINGS IN MANY HONG 'ONG COMPANIES," MR CHAU SAID.
"SO HONG KONG AND CHINA HAVE A GREAT STAKE IN EACH OTHER’S SUCCESS," HE SAID.
"THAT SHARED INTEREST HAS SEEN US THROUGH PROBLEMS SO FAR IN THE CHALLENGING PROCESS OF HAMMERING OUT THE DETAILS OF HONG KONG’S TRANSITION FROM BRITISH TO CHINESE SOVEREIGNTY," MR CHAU SAID.
"WE ARE CONFIDENT IT WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO. THE YEARS SINCE THE SIGNING OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION ON HONG KONG HAVE NOT BEEN EASY ONES.
"BUT THE HONG KONG ECONOMY HAS REMAINED REMARKABLY STRONG. WE ARE LOOKING AT GDP GROWTH OF FIVE PER CENT IN 1992. HONG KONG HAS MOVED UP FROM 18TH TO 10TH PLACE IN THE LEAGUE TABLE OF WORLD TRADERS OVER THE LAST DECADE. OUR EXPORTS SURGED 21 PER CENT IN THE FIRST 11 MONTHS OF 1992. AND OUR PUBLIC ACCOUNTS ARE ROCK SOLID."
LOOKING INTO THE FUTURE, MR CHAU POINTED OUT THAT HONG KONG’S INCREASING ECONOMIC STRENGTH OWED A GREAT DEAL TO ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA.
"THAT RELATIONSHIP IS INEXTRICABLE. IT IS GROWING FAST. BUT -AND THIS IS AN IMPORTANT POINT - ONE OF THE REASONS IT WORKS SO WELL IS THAT HONG KONG AND CHINA ARE SEPARATE ECONOMIC ENTITIES, DOING THINGS IN THEIR OWN DIFFERENT WAYS.
"THE VALUE OF THAT SEPARATENESS IS CLEARLY RECOGNISED IN THE JOINT DECLARATION, WHICH PROVIDES FOR HONG KONG TO CONTINUE TO BE A SEPARATE CUSTOMS TERRITORY AND TO MAKE TRADE AND ECONOMIC DECISIONS ON OUR OWN.
"IN ESSENCE, HONG KONG WILL BEST RETAIN ITS VITALITY AND DYNAMISM BY REMAINING AN AUTONOMOUS TRADING ENTITY: AND THAT IS WHAT THE JOINT DECLARATION GUARANTEES," MR CHAU SAID.
/HE SAID .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1993
HE SAID PREDICTING THE FUTURE WAS A RISKY BUSINESS BUT WE COULD LOOK TO THE COMING YEARS WITH CONFIDENCE.
"HONG KONG IS AT THE HEART OF THE FASTEST GROWING REGION IN THE WORLD. OUR ECONOMY IS ONE OF THE MOST RESILIENT IN THE WORLD. HONG KONG IS AND WILL REMAIN A GREAT PLACE TO DO BUSINESS - AND A GREAT PLACE IN WHICH TO DO BUSINESS WITH CHINA."
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LEGCO WILL MAKE BEST DECISION ON REFORMS * * * * *
THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR FRED TING FOOK-CHEUNG, TODAY (MONDAY) EXPRESSED FULL CONFIDENCE THAT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL’S DECISION ON THE GOVERNOR’S CONSTITUTIONAL PACKAGE WILL BE IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
SPEAKING AT THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICE’S SPRING RECEPTION, HE SAID HE WAS CERTAIN THAT THEIR DECISION WOULD FURTHER BOOST THE STABILITY AND PROSPERITY OF THE TERRITORY.
"WHILE THE GOVERNOR’S POLITICAL BLUEPRINT IS OF GREAT SIGNIFICANCE TO THE GOVERNMENT, IT IS ALSO OF VITAL IMPORTANCE TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
"BECAUSE OF THIS, THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION HAS BEEN ACTIVELY ENCOURAGING MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO DISCUSS THE MATTER IN A CONSTRUCTIVE, RATIONAL AND RESPONSIBLE MANNER," MR TING SAID.
HE SAID THE PACKAGE WOULD BE TABLED SHORTLY AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL FOR DISCUSSION.
AS FOR HONG KONG’S IMPRESSIVE ACHIEVEMENTS, MR TING ATTRIBUTED THIS TO A SOUND SOCIAL SYSTEM AND THE ENTERPRISING SPIRIT OF ITS PEOPLE.
HE ALSO GAVE HIS ASSURANCE THAT THE ADMINISTRATION WOULD CONTINUE TO PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN SECURING A SMOOTH TRANSITION FOR THE TERRITORY.
"WE WILL ALSO CONTINUE TO DO OUR BEST TO HELP MAINTAIN HONG KONG’S STABILITY AND PROSPERITY BEFORE AND BEYOND 1997," HE ADDED.
LATER, MR TING ALSO OFFICIATED AT A SPRING RECEPTION HOSTED BY THE TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICE.
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1993
5
ATTESTATION OF CONTRACTORS TO BE REMOVED
*******
THE REQUIREMENT FOR A FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPER CONTRACT TO BE ATTESTED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT BEFORE SUBMISSION TO THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT IN SUPPORT OF THE FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPER’S APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT VISA WILL BE REMOVED FROM MARCH 1, 1993.
A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (MONDAY) THAT THE CHANGE WAS AIMED AT SIMPLIFYING PROCEDURE AND REDUCING ADMINISTRATIVE COST.
THE CONTRACTS OF OTHER CATEGORIES OF FOREIGN WORKERS RECRUITED UNDER THE IMPORTATION OF LABOUR SCHEME DO NOT REQUIRE ATTESTATION BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
’’ABOLITION OF THIS REQUIREMENT IN RELATION TO THE EMPLOYMENT OF FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS WILL SHORTEN THE PROCESSING TIME FOR THIS KIND OF CONTRACTS AND SAVE THE HELPERS AND THEIR EMPLOYERS SEVERAL TRIPS BETWEEN GOVERNMENT OFFICES AND CONSULATES," HE SAID.
HE ADDED THAT THE CHANGE WOULD NOT AFFECT THE RIGHTS OF FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS.
"LIKE ALL OTHER FOREIGN WORKERS IN HONG KONG, THEY ENJOY THE SAME PROTECTION UNDER THE LABOUR LAWS AS LOCAL EMPLOYEES. THE FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS SERVICE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL CONTINUE TO PROVIDE CONSULTATION AND CONCILIATION SERVICE TO THE HELPERS AND THEIR EMPLOYERS," HE SAID.
THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT IS REVISING THE STANDARD CONTRACT FORM AND THE RELATED EXPLANATORY NOTES TO REFLECT THE CHANGE IN PROCEDURE.
THE NEW FORMS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC STARTING FROM MID-FEBRUARY AT THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT INFORMATION OFFICE AT IMMIGRATION TOWER, 7 GLOUCESTER ROAD, HONG KONG.
"BEFORE SUBMITTING A CONTRACT TO THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT FOR VISA APPLICATION, EMPLOYERS SHOULD CONSULT THE RELEVANT CONSULATES FOR ANY NECESSARY REQUIREMENTS OR FORMALITIES TO BE COMPLETED," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE REVEALED THAT STARTING FROM MARCH 1, 1993, THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT WILL ONLY ACCEPT CONTRACTS MADE IN THE NEW FORM OR THOSE OLD CONTRACTS WHICH HAVE ALREADY BEEN ATTESTED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT BEFORE MARCH 1, 1993.
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1993
6
APPOINTMENTS TO INDUSTRY AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT BOARD
*****
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (MONDAY) APPOINTMENTS TO THE INDUSTRY AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (ITDC) UP TO DECEMBER 31, 1994.
DR RAYMOND CH’IEN HAS BEEN APPOINTED CHAIRMAN OF THE ITDC.
DR CH’IEN IS THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LAM SOON HONG KONG GROUP. HE IS ONE OF THE FOUNDING MEMBERS OF THE ITDC WHICH WAS ESTABLISHED IN FEBRUARY 1992 TO REPLACE THE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD AND THE COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY.
THIS IS THE FIRST TIME WHEN A NON-OFFICIAL IS APPOINTED TO CHAIR THE ITDC.
THE ITDC INCLUDES 19 NON-OFFICJAL MEMBERS WHO ARE DRAWN FROM INDUSTRY, COMMERCE, FINANCE AND HIGHER EDUCATION. THEY ARE:
MR GRAHAM CHENG, REPRESENTING THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL, OF WHICH HE IS CHAIRMAN;
VINCENT CHENG, SENIOR MANAGER ECONOMIC AND STRATEGIC RESEARCH OF HONGKONG BANK;
PROFESSOR Y C CHENG, DIRECTOR OF THE CITY POLYTECHNIC OF HONG KONG;
STEPHEN CHEONG, REPRESENTING THE FEDERATION OF HONG KONG INDUSTRIES, OF WHICH HE IS CHAIRMAN;
MR WILLIAM FUNG, GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LI & FUNG LTD;
DR RAYMOND HO, DIRECTOR OF MAUNSELL CONSULTANTS ASIA LTD;
PROFESSOR CHARLES KAO, VICE CHANCELLOR OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG;
DR JAMES KUNG, CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF MANAGER OF CHEKIANG FIRST BANK LTD;
MR JEFFREY LAM, DIRECTOR OF FORWARD WINSOME INDUSTRIES LTD;
MR HERBERT LIANG, REPRESENTING THE CHINESE MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIATION, OF WHICH HE IS PRESIDENT;
DR YORK LIAO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF VARITRONIX LTD;
MR T L NG, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SONCA PRODUCTS LTD;
MR ANTHONY N SAVAGE, REPRESENTING THE HONG KONG INDUSTRIAL ESTATES CORPORATION, OF WHICH HE IS THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE;
MR CLIFF SUN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF KIN YIP METAL AND PLASTIC FACTORY LTD;
/MR C D ........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1993 7
MR C D TAM, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER (ASIA PACIFIC) OF MOTOROLA SEMICONDUCTORS HK LTD;
MR JAMES TIEN, REPRESENTING THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL, OF WHICH HE IS CHAIRMAN;
MR DENNIS TING, CHAIRMAN OF KADER INDUSTRIAL CO LTD;
MR ALLAN WONG, CHAIRMAN OF VIDEO TECHNOLOGY GROUP LTD; AND
PROFESSOR WOO CHIA-WEI, VICE CHANCELLOR AND PRESIDENT OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY.
FIVE GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS WILL CONTINUE TO SERVE AS MEMBERS OF ITDC.
THEY ARE THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNNG, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, AND THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF INDUSTRY.
THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT WILL PROVIDE SECRETARIAT SUPPORT TO THE ITDC.
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TWO GOVT LOTS FOR SALE BY AUCTION *****
TWO GOVERNMENT LOTS WILL BE OFFERED FOR SALE IN A PUBLIC AUCTION BY THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT ON WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY 3) IN THE JADE BALLROOM OF HOTEL FURAMA IN CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL.
THE AUCTION WILL START AT 2.30 PM.
THE FIRST LOT, LOCATED IN AREA 30A, SHEUNG SHUI, NEW TERRITORIES, HAS AN AREA OF ABOUT 12,020 SQUARE METRES DESIGNATED FOR INDUSTRIAL AND/OR GODOWN PURPOSES.
THE SECOND LOT IS LOCATED IN LUNG POON STREET, DIAMOND HILL, KOWLOON. WITH AN AREA OF ABOUT 26,060 SQUARE METRES, THE LOT IS EARMARKED FOR NON-INDUSTRIAL PURPOSES.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE AUCTION.
A PRESS AREA WILL BE DESIGNATED AT THE VENUE. PHOTOGRAPHERS ARE ADVISED TO BRING ALONG TELEPHOTO LENSES.
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1993
WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * * *
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 53.5 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 313.328 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 174.226 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 29.7 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
LEGCO MEETS ON WEDNESDAY * * * * *
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, THE HON HUI YIN-FAT, WILL MOVE A MOTION ON RETIREMENT PROTECTION AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING ON WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY 3).
THERE WILL BE TWO AMENDMENTS TO MR HUI’S MOTION: BY THE HON TIK CHI-YUEN AND THE HON J.D. MCGREGOR RESPECTIVELY.
THE HON CHEUNG) MAN-KWONG WILL MOVE ANOTHER MOTION ON KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION AND THE HON ELSIE TU ON HONG KONG ROYAL INSTRUCTIONS 1917 TO 1991.
LEGISLATORS WILL ASK A TOTAL OF 20 QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER TWO BILLS AT THE MEETING.
THE BILLS, THE PROTECTION OF WAGES ON INSOLVENCY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 AND OZONE LAYER PROTECTION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993, WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR, FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
IN ADDITION, THE CHIEF SECRETARY WILL MOVE A MOTION UNDER THE SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS WHILE THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY WILL MOVE A MOTION UNDER THE BUSINESS REGISTRATION ORDINANCE.
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER WILL PRESENT THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC ANNUAL REPORT 1991/1992 WITH BALANCE SHEET AT JUNE 30, 1992 AND INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED ON THAT DATE; AND THE CITY POLYTECHNIC OF HONG KONG ANNUAL REPORT 1991-1992 WITH FINANCIAL REPORT 1991-1992, AND THE HONG KONG BAPTIST COLLEGE ANNUAL REPORT 1991-1992 WITH STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1992.
THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS WILL PRESENT THE URBAN COUNCIL ESTIMATES OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1993/94 WHILE THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE WILL PRESENT THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS ANNUAL REPORT JULY 1991 TO JUNE 1992.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OBSERVE THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SITTING AND THEY MAY MAKE RESERVATIONS FOR SEATS IN THE PUBLIC GALLERY BY TELEPHONING 869 9492.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1993
9
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY *****
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE DURING THE PRECEDING WEEKEND:
* SATURDAY (JANUARY 30): VISITING POLICE REGIONAL COMMAND AND CONTROL CENTRE FOR KOWLOON EAST AND KOWLOON WEST.
* SUNDAY (JANUARY 31): STUDYING MATERIAL SUPPLIED BY THE POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS BUREAU THE DAY BEFORE.
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE TODAY (MONDAY) UP TO 4.30 PM:
* HEARINGS IN "OPEN” SESSION AT COURT NO. 10 IN THE SUPREME COURT BY MR JUSTICE BOKHARY (NOTE: FIVE MEMBERS OF THE CENTRAL & WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD MADE REPRESENTATION AND TWO REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE POLICE WERE EXAMINED).
* STUDYING FURTHER CROWD CONTROL OPERATION ORDERS ON LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS RECEIVED FROM THE POLICE.
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
*****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,550
REVERSAL OF LAF -50
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 1,500
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY NIL
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,500
LAF RATE 2.00 B1D/4.00 OFFER TWI 115 *+0.3* 1.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS
TERMS YIELD TERM
1 WEEK 2.89 PCT 13 MONTHS
1 MONTH 2.90 PCT 16 MONTHS
3 MONTHS 2.96 PCT 19 MONTHS
6 MONTHS 3.26 PCT 22 MONTHS
12 MONTHS 3.94 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
2402 5.50 101.58 3.98
2405 5.50 101.55 4.29
2408 4.375 99.72 4.62
2411 4.625 99.71 4.85
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS
CLOSED 1 FEBRUARY 1993
- 17,107 MN
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1993
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR TO UNDERTAKE TREATMENT IN HOSPITAL ..................
FINAL ELECTION PACKAGE SOON TO LEGCO .........................
REFORM ALLOWS GREATER PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL AFFAIRS .........
PUBLIC URGED TO SPEAK OUT ON REFORMS .........................
NEW ZEALAND IMPOSES FINAL ANTI-DUMPING DUTIES ON FOOTWEAR IMPORTS .......................................
PERMANENT MAGISTRATE APPOINTED .....................
28 PASSED LICENTIATE EXAM .......................
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY, OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON TUESDAY, UP TO 4.30 PM ..................................
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1993
1
GOVERNOR TO UNDERTAKE TREATMENT IN HOSPITAL *****
THE GOVERNOR’S SPOKESMAN MADE THE FOLLOWING ANNOUNCEMENT TODAY (TUESDAY):
"THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HONOURABLE CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, WILL ENTER THE QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL TOMORROW FOR TREATMENT OF A CORONARY DISORDER.
TESTS OVER RECENT WEEKS HAVE REVEALED THAT ALTHOUGH MR PATTEN’S HEART IS FUNCTIONING NORMALLY, THERE HAS BEEN NARROWING OF TWO OF HIS CORONARY ARTERIES.
• •
THE TREATMENT, KNOWN AS PERCUTANEOUS TRANSLUMINAL CORONARY ANGIOPLASTY, WILL BE CARRIED OUT IN THE LEWIS CARDIAC CATHETERISATION LABORATORY AT THE QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL.
IT INVOLVES THE DILATION OF THE ARTERIES USING BALLOON CATHETERS. THIS IS A COMMON FORM OF TREATMENT PERFORMED UNDER LOCAL ANAESTHETIC.
IT IS EXPECTED THAT MR PATTEN WILL BE IN HOSPITAL FOR UP TO FOUR DAYS AND WILL THEN NEED AROUND A WEEK TO 10 DAYS CONVALESCENCE BEFORE RETURNING TO WORK. HE WILL BE RECEIVING NO VISITORS OVER THIS PERIOD.
MR PATTEN HAS HAD ANNUAL MEDICAL CHECKS FOR MANY YEARS AND HAD A COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL EXAMINATION BEFORE TAKING UP THE POST OF GOVERNOR. OF HONG KONG.
AT THAT STAGE THERE WAS NO SIGN OF THE PRESENT PROBLEM.
DURING MR PATTEN’S PERIOD OF TREATMENT AND CONVALESCENCE, THE CHIEF SECRETARY SIR DAVID FORD WILL BE APPOINTED DEPUTY TO THE GOVERNOR."
NOTE TO EDITORS:
REGULAR BULLETINS ON THE GOVERNOR’S HEALTH WILL BE ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT HOUSE THROUGH G1S.
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1993
2
FINAL ELECTION PACKAGE SOON TO LEGCO
* * ♦ »
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL TODAY TOOK FURTHER THEIR WORK ON THE PACKAGE OF PROPOSALS ON ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS, INCLUDING A DISCUSSION OF LEGISLATION WHICH WOULD IMPLEMENT THE MAIN PACKAGE.
THE COUNCIL INTENDS THAT AS PLANNED THE FINAL PACKAGE SHOULD BE PUT TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BEFORE THE END OF THE MONTH.
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REFORM ALLOWS GREATER PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL AFFAIRS *****
THE GOVERNOR’S CONSTITUTIONAL PROPOSALS WILL ALLOW HONG KONG PEOPLE TO MORE ACTIVELY PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL AFFAIRS, THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR PAUL WONG, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).
MR WONG STRESSED THAT THESE PROPOSALS WOULD ENSURE A CONTINUATION OF HONG KONG’S FLEXIBLE SYSTEM AND ITS UNIQUE WAY OF LIFE. THESE ELEMENTS, IN TURN, HAVE MADE HONG KONG A SUCCESSFUL FINANCIAL AND BUSINESS CENTRE.
NOTING THAT RELEVANT BILLS ON THE POLITICAL BLUEPRINT WOULD SOON BE INTRODUCED TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR WONG WAS CONFIDENT THAT LEGISLATORS WOULD COME UP WITH A PACKAGE ACCEPTABLE TO ALL.
"I BELIEVE THE DECISION WOULD BE BASED ON THE INTERESTS OF PEOPLE OF HONG KONG AND THAT THEIR WISHES TO MAINTAIN THE PROSPERITY AND STABILITY OF HONG KONG WOULD ALSO BE CONSIDERED,” HE SAID.
HE MADE THESE REMARKS WHEN ATTENDING THE SPRING RECEPTIONS HOSTED SEPARATELY BY THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICE.
THANKING LOCAL COMMUNITY MEMBERS FOR THEIR ACTIVE SUPPORT IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS, MR WONG SAID THEIR ADVICES ON VARIOUS GOVERNMENT POLICIES HAD ENABLED THE ADMINISTRATION TO FORMULATE AND INTRODUCE THOSE THAT BEST SUIT PUBLIC NEEDS.
"AND IT IS HEARTENING TO LEARN THAT YOU HAVE ALSO YOUR VIEWS ON THE GOVERNOR’S REFORM PACKAGE THROUGH
EXPRESSED
DIFFERENT
CHANNELS,” HE SAID.
--------0-----------
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1993
3
PUBLIC URGED TO SPEAK OUT ON REFORMS
*****
THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICER, MRS AGNES ALLCOCK, TODAY (TUESDAY) URGED THE PUBLIC TO SPEAK OUT ON THE GOVERNOR’S CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS BEFORE RELATED LEGISLATIONS ARE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
SPEAKING AT THE DISTRICT’S SPRING RECEPTION, MRS ALLCOCK REITERATED THAT THE PEOPLE’S OPINIONS WOULD BE RESPECTED AND DUE CONSIDERATION WOULD BE GIVEN.
FOR INSTANCE, VIEWS OF THE RESIDENTS AND DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS WERE ACCEPTED BY THE GOVERNMENT WHEN THEY EXPRESSED RESERVATIONS ON CHANGES TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE BOUNDARY OF THE DISTRICT RECENTLY, SHE SAID.
"THIS SERVES TO ILLUSTRATE THAT THE GOVERNMENT TAKES INTO CONSIDERATION THE PUBLIC’S VIEWS AND WISHES IN POLICY MATTERS." MRS ALLCOCK SAID.
SHE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE PROPOSALS FOR THE DISTRICT BOARDS FORMED ONLY PART OF THE REFORM PACKAGE OUTLINED IN THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS IN OCTOBER LAST YEAR.
"OF MR PATTEN’S VARIOUS PROPOSALS, THE 1995 ELECTION ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN THE FOCUS OF HEATED DISCUSSION AMONG THE PUBLIC IN THE LAST FEW MONTHS.
"THE VALUABLE OPINIONS GENERATED FROM THESE DISCUSSIONS HAVE BEEN COLLATED INTO A COMPENDIUM WHICH IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC’S INSPECTION AT DISTRICT OFFICES," SHE ADDED.
TURNING TO LOCAL AFFAIRS, MRS ALLCOCK SAID THE WORK ON SEVERAL LARGE-SCALE INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS - INCLUDING THE CONTAINER TERMINAL NO. 9, ROUTE THREE, THE DUPLICATE SOUTH BRIDGE AND THE AIRPORT RAILWAY STATION AT LAI KING - WILL START THIS YEAR.
ADMITTING THAT THE WORKS WILL INEVITABLY CAUSE INCONVENIENCE TO SOME LOCAL RESIDENTS, SHE SAID THE PROJECTS WOULD IN THE LONG RUN, CREATE MORE JOB OPPORTUNITIES AS WELL AS BRING ECONOMIC BENEFITS TO THE DISTRICT.
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/4.........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1993
NEW ZEALAND IMPOSES FINAL, ANTI-DUMPING DUTIES ON FOOTWEAR IMPORTS * * * * *
THE NEW ZEALAND GOVERNMENT HAS IMPOSED ANT I-DUMPING DUTIES ON THE IMPORTS OF CERTAIN MEN’S FOOTWEAR. FROM CHINA, INDONESIA, KOREA, TAIWAN AND THAILAND.
ACCORDING TO A COMMERCIAL INFORMATION CIRCULAR PUBLISHED BY THE TRADE DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY), THE AMOUNT OF ANTI-DUMPING DUTY TO BE PAID SHALL BE THE AMOUNT BY WHICH THE NORMAL VALUE EXCEEDS THE VALUE FOR DUTY OF THE GOODS WHEN ENTERING NEW ZEALAND FOR HOME CONSUMPTION.
HONG KONG TRADE STATISTICS SHOW THAT THE TERRITORY’S RE-EXPORTS OF FOOTWEAR UNDER HARMONISED SYSTEM CODE NOS. 6402, 6403, 6404 AND 6405, TO NEW ZEALAND AMOUNTED AT HK$56 MILLION IN 1991 AND HK$86.2 MILLION FROM JANUARY TO NOVEMBER IN 1992.
MEANWHILE, THE TRADE DEPARTMENT ALSO RECEIVED INFORMATION THAT THE SOUTH KOREAN GOVERNMENT HAS IMPOSED PROVISIONAL ANTI-DUMPING DUTIES ON IMPORTS OF PHOSPHORIC ACID PRODUCED IN CHINA.
WITH EFFECT FROM OCTOBER 27, 1992, IMPORT OF CERTAIN TYPES OF PHOSPHORIC ACID ORIGINATING FROM CHINA, IRRESPECTIVE OF THE COUNTRY OF EXPORT, WOULD, IN ADDITION TO NORMAL DUTIES, BE SUBJECT TO PROVISIONAL ANTI-DUMPING DUTIES, RANGING FROM 44.73 PER CENT TO 59.34 PER CENT, FOR A PERIOD OF FOUR MONTHS.
ACCORDING TO HONG KONG TRADE STATISTICS, HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS OF PHOSPHORIC ACID, UNDER HARMONISED SYSTEM (’ODE 2809.2000, OF CHINESE ORIGIN TO THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA AMOUNTED TO HK$2 MILLION IN 1991 AND HK$1.9 MILLION FROM JANUARY TO OCTOBER IN 1992.
--------0------------
PERMANENT MAGISTRATE APPOINTED
*****
THE JUDICIARY ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT MR TAM HOP-HON, A SPECIAL MAGISTRATE SINCE 1985, HAS BEEN APPOINTED A PERMANENT MAGISTRATE, WITH EFFECT FROM FEBRUARY 1, 1993.
MR TAM WAS BORN IN CHINA IN 1946 AND WAS EDUCATED IN HONG KONG TO SECONDARY LEVEL.
HE LEFT SCHOOL IN 1966 AND JOINED GOVERNMENT SERVICE AS A LAND ASSISTANT. THROUGH EVENING CLASSES MR TAM REACHED MATRICULATION LEVEL IN 1968 AND OBTAINED A MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF EAST ASIA IN MACAU IN 1986.
/FROM 1967 ........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1993
- 5 -
FROM 1967 TO 1968, MR TAM WAS A WELFARE ASSISTANT IN THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT. HE THEN LEFT THE GOVERNMENT AND SPENT TWO YEARS AS A LITIGATION CLERK WITH A SOLICITOR’S FIRM, THEN FOR A YEAR WAS A PROPRIETOR OF A MANUFACTURING COMPANY AND THEN FOR A FURTHER YEAR WORKED AS A CLERK IN A STOCKBROKER’S OFFICE.
IN 1974, MR TAM RETURNED TO GOVERNMENT SERVICE AS A LAND EXECUTIVE AND IN 1977 TRANSFERRED TO THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT AS A COURT PROSECUTOR. HE REMAINED IN THAT CAPACITY UNTIL HE WAS APPOINTED SPECIAL MAGISTRATE IN FEBRUARY 1985.
THROUGHOUT HIS CAREER, MR TAM CONTINUED HIS EDUCATION AS AN EXTERNAL STUDENT. IN 1970 HE ENROLLED WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF LONDON AND OBTAINED HIS LL.B DEGREE IN 1989. HE THEN STUDIED PART-TIME FOR THE ENGLISH BAR AND WAS CALLED TO THE BAR BY GRAY'S INN IN NOVEMBER 1991 .
--------0----------
28 PASSED LICENTIATE EXAM *****
THE LICENTIATE COMMITTEE OF THE MEDICAL COUNCIL OF HONG KONG ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT 28 CANDIDATES HAVE PASSED PART I OF THE LICENTIATE EXAMINATION FOR UNREGISTRABLE DOCTORS.
A TOTAL OF 216 CANDIDATES SAT FOR THE EXAMINATION ON JANUARY 6. PART I IS A MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTION PAPER ON PROFESSIONAL SUBJECTS.
PART II OF THE EXAMINATION, DESIGNED TO TEST THE CANDIDATES’ ENGLISH FOR PROFESSIONAL PURPOSES, WILL TAKE PLACE ON MARCH 3 AND MAY 4, THIS YEAR. CANDIDATES MAY CHOOSE TO TAKE THIS EXAMINATION ON EITHER DATE.
- 0 -
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON TUESDAY, UP TO 4.30 PM
*****
HEARINGS IN "OPEN" SESSION AT COURT NO. 10 IN THE SUPREME COURT BY MR JUSTICE BOKHARY.
(NOTE: A TOTAL OF EIGHT REPRESENTATIVES FROM RELEVANT GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS WERE EXAMINED. THEY INCLUDED MRS RITA LAU, COMMISSIONER FOR TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY, MR S N CHAN, SENIOR STAFF OFFICER (PUBLIC HEALTH), URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR F H YEUNG, CHIEF HIGHWAY ENGINEER (HONG KONG), HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT, MR K S LIEW, CHIEF TRAFFIC ENGINEER (HONG KONG), TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, MR T THUMB, CHIEF ENGINEER (HONG KONG AND ISLANDS), DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT.)
0 --------
/6 .........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1993
- 6
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS ♦ ♦ * ♦ ♦
TENDER DATE 2 FEB 93 2 FEB 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q305 H357
AMOUNT APPLIED HKD 3,475 MN HKD 1,540 MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HKD 800 MN HKD 300 MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 3.03 PCT 3.31 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 3.05 PCT 3.33 PCT
PRO RATA RATIO ABOUT 81 PCT ABOUT 28 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 3.09 PCT 3.38 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 8 FEBRUARY 1993 -
TENDER DATE 9 FEB 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q306
ISSUE DATE 10 FEB 93
MATURITY DATE 12 MAY 93
TENOR 91 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HKD $1,000 MN +200 MN
--------0
/7 ........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1993
7
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
* * » * » $ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1 , 500
REVERSAL OF LAF NIL
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 1,500
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY NIL
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,500
LAF RATE 2.00 B1D/4 .00 OFFER TW1 115.00 *+0.0* 2.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.83 PCT 12 MONTHS 2402 5.50 101.51 4.04
1 MONTH 2.84 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 101.56 4.28
3 MONTHS 3.00 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 4.375 99.69 4.64
6 MONTHS 3.31 PCT 21 MONTHS 2411 4.625 99.69 4.86
12 MONTHS 3.96 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 15,307 MN
CLOSED 2 FEBRUARY 1993
- 0 -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL:
SPEECH BY SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN
CHAN, AT MOTION DEBATE ON RETIREMENT PROTECTION IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ......................................... 1
SPEECH BY SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN
CHAN, AT MOTION DEBATE ON KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ......................................... 3
BILL TO PROTECT OZONE LAYER INTRODUCED......................... 7
BETTER WAGE PROTECTION PROPOSED ............................... 8
BRITAIN WILL ENSURE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF JOINT DECLARATION ................................................. 8
GOVERNOR'S TAX POSITION SET FOR REVIEW ...................... 9
NO PLAN TO REQUIRE POLITICAL ORGANISATIONS DISCLOSE SPONSORS ................................................... 10
LEGISLATIONS NEEDED FOR CONSTITUTIONAL PROPOSALS ............. 10
NO MAJOR PRIVATE DEVELOPMENTS WITHIN COUNTRY PARKS ........... 11
RTHK PRODUCTION SUITABLY SUPERVISED .......................... 12
MEASURES TO DEAL WITH JUVENILE DELINQUENCY ................... 13
NORMAL SCHOOLING FOR HIV-POSITIVE STUDENTS ................... 14
ALL BEDSPACE APARTMENTS TO BE LICENSED BY 1995 ............... 14
PROFITS TAX ON HK DOLLAR DEPOSIT INTEREST REMAINED ........... 15
HOSPITAL PROPOSAL FOR NORTH DISTRICT UNDER CONSIDERATION .. 16
/MORE ANTI-SMOKING .......
MORE ANTI-SMOKING PLANS UNDER STUDY ......................... 17
CHARGING SCHEME FOR CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT ................ 17
FUTURE HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS UNDER REVIEW .................... 18
OVER 1,200 PROSECUTIONS AGAINST TAXI DRIVER IN 1992 ......... 19
CARE FOR PATIENTS NOT JUST A MATTER OF LAW .................. 19
NO COMPLAINTS AGAINST SCHOOLS USING UNSUITABLE TEXTBOOKS .. 20
ACCIDENTS STATISTICS COMPILED BY CAUSE ...................... 21
STATISTICS ON GRADUATE AND NON-GRADUATE TEACHERS ............ 21
CHANGE OF STREET NAMES A MATTER FOR SAR GOVT ................ 22
REVISION OF FEES AND PENALTIES UNDER BUSINESS REGISTRATION ORDINANCE .................................................. 22
AMENDMENT MOTION ON RETIREMENT PROTECTION PASSED ............ 23
OUTCOME OF GOVERNOR'S TREATMENT VERY SATISFACTORY .............. 24
RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE CEILING TO STAY: FS ....................... 24
EXCO ENDORSES GOVT'S APPROACH TO CATHAY PACIFIC DISPUTE ........ 27
GOVT FETCHES $3,694 MILLION IN LAND SALE ....................... 27
RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY REPORT RECEIVED ................... 28
HK-BASED FORGED CREDIT CARD SYNDICATE SHATTERED ................ 29
MINIMUM GOVT INTERFERENCE IN BUSINESS .......................... 30
POLITICAL ROW WILL SETTLE ...................................... 31
YOUTH URGED TO TALK ABOUT AIDS FRANKLY ......................... 32
GOVT LAND TO LET BY TENDER ..................................... 32
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY .......................................... 33
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
34
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
1
SPEECH BY SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN (’HAN, AT MOTION DEBATE ON RETIREMENT PROTECTION IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL *****
MR DEPUTY PRESIDENT,
THIS DEBATE FOLLOWS HOT ON THE HEELS OF THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON THE ADMINISTRATION’S PROPOSALS FOR A COMMUNITY-WIDE RETIREMENT PROTECTION SYSTEM. I AM GRATIFIED BY THE EXTENT OF THE PUBLIC RESPONSE. WE HAVE RECEIVED, BY CLOSE OF PLAY YESTERDAY, 119 DIRECT WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS, AND SOME MORE ARE PROBABLY STILL ON THE WAY. I SHOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL THE ORGANISATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE RESPONDED TO THE CONSULTATION PAPER, AS WELL AS THE HONOURABLE MEMBERS WHO HAVE SPOKEN IN THIS DEBATE, FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS. 1 WISH ALSO TO ASSURE THEM THAT THEIR VIEWS AND SUGGESTIONS WILL BE FULLY CONSIDERED.
THE WORKING GROUP ON RETIREMENT PROTECTION WILL SHORTLY RECONVENE TO STUDY ALL THE COMMENTS RECEIVED AND CONSIDER WHAT MODIFICATIONS, IF ANY, SHOULD BE MADE TO ITS PROPOSALS. THE GROUP WILL WORK WITH ALL DUE DESPATCH, WHILE TAKING CARE NOT TO RUSH TO CONCLUSIONS ON WHAT ARE CLEARLY MATTERS OF GREAT IMPORTANCE AND COMPLEXITY. IT WILL THEN SUBMIT ITS RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL FOR DECISION.
SINCE NO DECISIONS HAVE YET BEEN TAKEN, 1 BELIEVE MEMBERS WILL UNDERSTAND THAT I AM NOT IN A POSITION NOW TO RESPOND DEFINITIVELY, OR EVEN COMPREHENSIVELY, TO ALL THE POINTS THEY HAVE MADE. NEVERTHELESS, AND WITHOUT WISHING TO PRE-EMPT FURTHER CONSIDERATION IN ANY WAY, I SHOULD LIKE TO OFFER A FEW COMMENTS ON SOME OF THE KEY ISSUES.
COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL SECURITY
SOME MEMBERS HAVE CRITICISED THE PROPOSALS IN THE CONSULTATION PAPER FOR FAILING TO PROTECT THOSE WHO HAVE RETIRED OR WHO ARE APPROACHING RETIREMENT. IT IS TRUE THAT SOME MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY WOULD GET LITTLE PROTECTION, IF AT ALL, FROM THE PROPOSED SYSTEM. BUT WE HAVE TO START SOMEWHERE. IT IS IN THE NATURE OF RETIREMENT PROTECTION SCHEMES THAT BENEFITS ARE PROPORTIONATE TO THE SIZE AND DURATION OF CONTRIBUTIONS. THERE IS, IN ANY CASE, ALREADY AN ALTERNATIVE FOR THOSE NEARING RETIREMENT, TO THE EXTENT THAT THEY ARE ELIGIBLE FOR LONG SERVICE PAYMENTS. UE ENVISAGE THE LSP SCHEME TO CONTINUE FOR SOME TIME.
SOME MEMBERS HAVE CALLED SPECIFICALLY FOR A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR SOCIAL PROTECTION, OR A UNIVERSAL OLD AGE PENSION. THE GOVERNMENT’S POSITION ON THIS WAS EXPLAINED TO THIS COUNCIL IN SOME DETAIL BY THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, IN ANSWER TO A QUESTION FROM MR MCGREGOR ON 2 DECEMBER LAST YEAR. RATHER THAN WASTE THE COUNCIL’S TIME BY REPEATING THE EXPLANATION HERE, 1 SHOULD LIKE TO MAKE JUST TWO POINTS:
/- FIRST, IT .........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
2
- FIRST, IT WOULD NOT BE RIGHT TO ASSUME THAT ALL THOSE WHO ARE AGED ARE ON THE EDGE OF POVERTY. THE FACTS INDICATE OTHERWISE. LESS THAN 10% OF OUR TOTAL POPULATION AGED 65 OR ABOVE ARE IN NEED OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE;
- SECONDLY, WE DO HAVE A SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM, AND A NONCONTRIBUTORY ONE A'l THAT, PROVIDING BENEFITS FOR THE
ELDERLY, THE DISABLED AND THE DISADVANTAGED. THAT SYSTEM WILL REMAIN IN PLACE, OPERATING IN PARALLEL WITH ANY RETIREMENT PROTECTION SYSTEM WE MAY DECIDE TO INTRODUCE.
FINANCIAL GUARANTEE
I TURN NOW TO THE QUESTION OF A FINANCIAL GUARANTEE, WHICH HAS BEEN A FOCUS OF DISCUSSION SINCE THE CONSULTATION PAPER WAS PUBLISHED. THERE HAVE BEEN MANY CALLS FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO ACT AS THE FINAL GUARANTOR FOR BENEFITS ACCRUED UNDER RETIREMENT PROTECTION SCHEMES, BEARING EITHER ALL THE FINANCIAL RISKS OR, AT LEAST, THE RISKS OF SCHEMES FAILING AS A RESULT OF FRAUD. ON THIS QUESTION I CAN ONLY REPEAT WHAT I SAID ON 18 NOVEMBER 1992 WHEN THE COUNCIL LAST DEBATED ON A MOTION CONCERNING THE PROPOSED RETIREMENT PROTECTION SYSTEM. 1 SAID ON THAT OCCASION, AND IF I MAY QUOTE MYSELF: "IF THE GOVERNMENT WERE TO PROVIDE A GUARANTEE FOR ALL RETIREMENT SCHEMES, THE TAXPAYER WOULD HAVE TO ACCEPT AN IMMENSE CONTINGENT LIABILITY. THE COMMITMENT WOULD BE PERMANENT AND EVER INCREASING AND IT COULD WELL BE COUNTERPRODUCTIVE IF IT WERE TO ENCOURAGE SOME FUND MANAGERS TO TAKE GREATER THAN NORMAL RISKS, IN THE KNOWLEDGE THAT THEY WOULD BE BAILED OUT BY THE TAXPAYER IF THEIR JUDGEMENT PROVED TO BE WRONG." THIS STATEMENT CONTINUES TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATION’S CONCERN.
WE ARE, OF COURSE, NOT OBLIVIOUS TO THE CONCERN EXPRESSED BY MANY PEOPLE THAT THEIR LIFELONG SAVINGS MIGHT BE LOST, AND THE RETIREMENT PROTECTION TO WHICH THEY HAVE BEEN LOOKING MIGHT DISAPPEAR, AS A RESULT OF A SCHEME FAILING. THIS CONCERN IS UNDERSTANDABLE AND LEGITIMATE, AND WE WILL NEED TO FIND AN APPROPRIATE WAY OF ADDRESSING IT. BUT EVEN IF A GOVERNMENT GUARANTEE WERE PRACTICABLE, AND THIS MUST BE A MATTER OF VERY CONSIDERABLE DOUBT, IT WOULD AT BEST BE A NEGATIVE SOLUTION, A PREPARATION FOR FAILURE. IT WOULD BE FAR MORE POSITIVE TO TAKE STEPS TO ENSURE THAT THE SYSTEM WILL OPERATE PROPERLY AND SUCCESSFULLY. WE ARE PROPOSING TO DO JUST THAT. THERE IS NO QUESTION OF THE GOVERNMENT WISHING TO \BROGATE ITS RESPONSIBILITY FOR MONITORING THE OPERATION OF RETIREMENT PROTECTION SCHEMES. THE RECENTLY ENACTED OCCUPATIONAL RETIREMENT SCHEMES ORDINANCE PROVIDES A FIRM BASIS FOR AN EFFECTIVE MONITORING AND SUPERVISORY SYSTEM AND WE HAVE EVERY INTENTION OF BUILDING ON IT.
I BELIEVE THERE IS SOME ACCEPTANCE OF THE VIEW THAT A GOVERNMENT GUARANTEE FOR ALL RETIREMENT BENEFITS IS SIMPLY NOT POSSIBLE. SOME COMMENTATORS HAVE PROPOSED THAT WE SHOULD ADOPT A PARTIAL GUARANTEE, OR SET UP AN INSURANCE FUND. MY INITIAL REACTION TO THE CONCEPT OF A PARTIAL GUARANTEE IS TO ASK HOW WE DEFINE PARTIAL. IT WOULD NOT BE AN EASY TASK. AS FOR SETTING UP AN INSURANCE FUND, I WOULD ONLY OBSERVE AT THIS STAGE THAT ANY INSURANCE SCHEME INVOLVES A COST WHICH MUST, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, EVENTUALLY FALL TO BE BORNE BY THE BENEFICIARY.
/CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
3
CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND
LET ME RETURN BRIEFLY TO THE CONCEPT OF A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND, WHICH HAS BEEN DISCUSSED IN THIS COUNCIL ON A NUMBER OF OCCASIONS IN THE PAST. MEMBERS WILL BE AWARE THAT THE CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND CONCEPT WAS NOT DISCUSSED BY THE WORKING GROUP ON RETIREMENT PROTECTION. INDEED, IT WAS NOT EVEN IN THE WORKING GROUP’S TERMS OF REFERENCE. THE REASONS FOR THIS EXCLUSION LIE MAINLY IN THE GOVERNMENT’S SERIOUS RESERVATIONS ABOUT PUTTING A VERY LARGE AMOUNT OF FUNDS UNDER CENTRAL ISED CONTROL FOR INVESTMENT PURPOSES. WE CONTINUE TO SEE SUBSTANTIAL DIFFICULTIES IN A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND BUT WE ARE PREPARED TO LOOK AGAIN AT THE ARGUMENTS.
CONCLUSION
IN CONCLUSION, I REALISE THAT MY RESPONSE TODAY IS AT BEST TENTATIVE, BUT I MAKE NO APOLOGY FOR THIS. TODAY’S DEBATE MARKS THE END OF ONE STAGE IN OUR CONSIDERATION OF A COMMUNITY-WIDE RETIREMENT PROTECTION SYSTEM AND THE BEGINNING OF THE NEXT. MUCH WORK REMAINS TO BE DONE ON A WHOLE RANGE OF IMPORTANT AND COMPLEX ISSUES. THEY REQUIRE DETAILED EXAMINATION AND ARE NOT FOR INSTANT REACTIONS OR HASTY DECISIONS. WE SHALL CONSIDER CAREFULLY ALL THE VIEWS WHICH HAVE BEEN EXPRESSED, BOTH WITHIN AND OUTSIDE THIS COUNCIL, AND ENDEAVOUR TO COME UP WITH THE RIGHT ANSWERS. LN THE MEANTIME, GIVEN THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAS YET TO COME TO ANY CONCLUSIONS, THE EX OFFICIO MEMBERS WILL ABSTAIN FROM VOTING ON THE MOTION AND THE AMENDMENTS TO IT.
THANK YOU, MR DEPUTY PRESIDENT.
--------0 -
SPEECH BY SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, AT MOTION DEBATE ON KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL *****
MR DEPUTY PRESIDENT,
THIS DEBATE UNDERLINES YET AGAIN THE IMMENSE IMPORTANCE WHICH HONOURABLE MEMBERS ATTACH TO EDUCATION AT ALL LEVELS. IT ALSO DEMONSTRATES VIVIDLY THAT, IN THIS VITAL AREA, THERE IS NO LIMIT TO THE COMMUNITY’S ASPIRATIONS FOR MORE AND BETTER TO BE DONE, AND ABSOLUTELY NO ROOM FOR COMPLACENCY ON THE PART OF THOSE TRYING TO DO IT. THE GOVERNMENT FULLY RECOGNISES THESE FACTS OF LIFE. I HOPE THAT, FOR THEIR PART, HONOURABLE MEMBERS AND THE ( OMMI N I T\ AT LARGE WILL ACCEPT THAT, WHILE WE SHOULD RIGHTLY STRIVE INCESSANTLY FOR MORE AND BETTER, OUR RESOURCES ARE NEVER AS UNLIMITED AS OUR ASPIRATIONS; AND THAT THERE OFTEN ARE DIFFERENT WAYS OF ACHIEVING OUR OBJECTIVES.
/POLICY BACKGROUND .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
POLICY BACKGROUND
IT IS THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY TO ENABLE ALL CHILDREN OF THE RELEVANT AGE GROUP TO HAVE ACCESS TO KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION WITHIN A NON-COMPULSORY PRIVATE SECTOR SYSTEM. CONTRARY TO 1’HE PERCEPTION OF SOME COMMENTATORS, THIS POLICY POSITIVELY RECOGNISES THE VALUE OF KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OF OUR CHILDREN. AND IT HAS ENABLED 85% OF OUR CHILDREN IN THE AGE GROUP TO ATTEND KINDERGARTENS.
AS PART OF THIS POLICY, THE GOVERNMENT HAS, SINCE 1982, PROVIDED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO THE KINDERGARTEN SECTOR BY REFUNDING THE RENT AND RATES OF NON-PROFIT-MAKING KINDERGARTENS. IN 1989, FOLLOWING CONSIDERATION OF THE EDUCATION COMMISSION’S REPORT NO. 2, WE DECIDED TO TAKE SEVERAL ADDITIONAL STEPS WITH THE OBJECTIVE OF IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION:
WE INTRODUCED A NEW FEE REMISS ION S< HEMF TO HELP NEEDY PARENTS PA1! THE FEES WHICH PRIVATE SECTOR KINDERGARTENS NEEDED TO CHARGE IN ORDER TO PAY HIE SALARIES OF TRAINED TEACHERS;
- WE ORGANISED FULL-TIME AND PART-TIME TEACHER TRAINING COURSES TO UPGRADE THE QUALITY OF KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS;
- WE ISSUED CURRICULUM GUIDELINES TO HELP KINDERGARTEN
TEACHERS PREPARE THEIR TUITION SCHEDULES;
- AND WE INTRODUCED LEGISLATION FOR A MINIMUM TEACHER:PUPIL RATIO, AS WELL AS NORMATIVE SALARY SCALES TO ENSURE THAT PROPERLY TRAINED TEACHERS WOULD BE ATTRACTED INTO THE PROFESSION AND ENCOURAGED TO STAY IN IT.
OUR AIM WAS TO ENCOURAGE KINDERGARTEN OPERATORS TO ACHIEVE, OVER TIME, SUCCESSIVE TRAINED-TEACHER TARGETS OF 40%, 60% AND EVENTUALLY 85%. THE BROADER AIM WAS TO RAISE KINDERGARTEN STAFFING STANDARDS TO THOSE OF CHILD CARE CENTRES, SO AS TO PAVE THE WAY FOR THE EVENTUAL UNIFICATION OF PRE-PR.IMAR\ SERVICES. A WORKING PARTI ON KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION WAS FORMED TO MONITOR PROGRESS AND ADVISE ON ANY FURTHER MEASURES NEEDED.
PROGRESS SO FAR
WE HAVE ALREADY ACHIEVED ENCOURAGING RESULTS. TN THE FIRST TWO YEARS OF ITS IMPLEMENTATION, THE NEW PACKAGE BOOSTED AVERAGE TEACHER SALARIES, IN REAL TERMS, BY 19.5% FOR QUALIFIED KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS (QKTS) AND 14% FOR QUALIFIED ASSISTANT KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS (QAKTS). THE WASTAGE RATE OF TRAINED TEACHERS DROPPED FROM 19.4% IN 1988-89 TO 12% IN 1990-91. ENROLMENT IN QAKT COURSES HAS ALSO RISEN SHARPLY, BY 30% IN THE FIRST YEAR AND BY ANOTHER 2R% IN THE SECOND. UNFORTUNATELY, QKT COURSES HAVE DONE LESS WELL, WITH A 30% DROP IN ENROLMENT IN 1991-92 AS COMPARED TO THE YEAR BEFORE. NEVERIHFLESS, AS Ob’ SEPTEMBER 1992, 61% OF KINDERGARTENS WERE EMPLOYING 40% OR MORE TRAINED TEACHERS, THUS ACHIEVING THE FIRST OF THE SUCCESSIVE TARGETS I MENTIONED EARLIER.
/EXPENDITURE ON KGS .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
5
EXPENDITURE ON KGS
ALL THIS HAS NOT BEEN ACHIEVED WITHOUT SUBSTANTIAL PUBLIC EXPENDITURE. TOTAL EXPENDITURE ON KINDERGARTENS FOR THE 1992-93 SCHOOL YEAR WILL REACH $165 MILLION. THIS INCLUDES DIRECT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO NON-PROFIT-MAKING KINDERGARTENS THROUGH REFUNDS OF RENT AND RATES, AND TO NEEDY PARENTS THROUGH FEE REMISSIONS, AS WELL AS FUNDS TO RUN FULLY SUBSIDISED TEACHER TRAINING COURSES FOR ALMOST 700 TRAINEES.
THE PROVISION FOR FREE REMISSIONS, AT $41 MILLION, INCLUDES A SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE OF $15 MILLION APPROVED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE OF THIS COUNCIL ONLY LAST MONTH. THIS REPRESENTED A 37% INCREASE OVER THE ORIGINAL PROVISION, AND HAS INCREASED THE PROPORTION OF KINDERGARTEN PUPILS WHO ARE ABLE TO BENEFIT FROM THE FEE REMISSION SCHEME FROM 5% TO 8%. WHEN OUR PRESENT PLANS TO BRING THE POINTS SYSTEM FOR KINDERGARTEN FEE REMISSIONS IN LINE WITH THAT FOR SENIOR SECONDARY STUDENTS IS FULLY IMPLEMENTED IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME, THE PROVISION WILL HAVE INCREASED TO OVER $100 MILLION AT TODAY’S PRICES. THIS WILL FURTHER INCREASE THE PROPORTION OF KINDERGARTEN PUPILS BENEFITING FROM FEE REMISSIONS TO A SUBSTANTIAL 16%.
FURTHER PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS
I BELIEVE THAT EVEN OUR STAUNCHEST CRITICS WILL AGREE THAT THESE ARE REAL AND SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENTS. 1 ALSO BELIEVE THAT, IN SEEKING TO DO MORE AND BETTER, THEY SHARE WITH US A COMMON OBJECTIVE, NAMELY TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION.
AS MANY MEMBERS HAVE RIGHTLY OBSERVED, THE KEY TO HIGHER QUALITY LIES IN INCREASING THE PROPORTION OF TRAINED TEACHERS IN KINDERGARTENS. THIS IN TURN DEPENDS ON THE ABILITY AND WILLINGNESS OF KINDERGARTEN OPERATORS TO PAY THE APPROPRIATE SALARIES. OUR PRESENT POLICY SEEKS TO BRING THIS ABOUT. BOTH THE WORKING PARTY ON KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION AND THE EDUCATION COMMISSION HAVE RECOMMENDED A TWO-PRONGF.D APPROACH, NAMELY THAT WE SHOULD INTRODUCE STATUTORY STAFFING REQUIREMENTS TO REACH THE 40%, 60% AND 85% TRAINED TEACHER TARGETS PROGRESSIVELY, BUT ONLY IF FUNDING FOR THE FEE REMISSION SCHEME IS IMPROVED FIRST, SO AS TO ENSURE THAT PARENTS WILL BE ABLE TO AFFORD THE RESULTING INCREASE IN FEES. HAVING MADE SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS TO THE FEE REMISSION SCHEME, WE ARE NOW ABLE TO CONSIDER SERIOUSLY THE INTRODUCTION OF STATUTORY TRAINED TEACHER MANNING LEVELS IN KINDERGARTENS. PRESENT INDICATIONS ARE THAT IT SHOULD BE POSSIBLE TO STIPULATE A MINIMUM PROPORTION OF 40% TRAINED TEACHERS IN EACH KINDERGARTEN IN 1995-96, TAKING ACCOUNT OF THE TIME NEEDED BY KINDERGARTEN OPERATORS TO PREPARE THEMSELVES FOR THIS.
/FURTHER OPTIONS .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
6
FURTHER OPTIONS
THE MOTION BEFORE US SUGGESTS CERTAIN FURTHER MEANS OF ACHIEVING OUR OBJECTIVE, INCLUDING A SCHEME TO SUPPLEMENT KINDERGARTEN TEACHER SALARIES AND EVENTUALLY BRINGING KINDERGARTENS INTO THE SCOPE OF SUBSIDISED EDUCATION. THE ADMINISTRATION IS PREPARED TO STUDY THESE SUGGESTIONS WITH AN OPEN MIND. I HOPE OTHERS WILL DO LIKEWISE. AS OF NOW, WE HAVE YET TO BE CONVINCED THAT THE BEST WAY OF ACHIEVING OUR OBJECTIVE IS TO SHIFT FUNDING RESPONSIBILITY ENTIRELY TO THE PUBLIC PURSE. THERE IS GROWING EVIDENCE FROM EXPERIENCE ELSEWHERE IN THE WORLD THAT PRIVATE SECTOR INITIATIVES CAN BRING SIGNIFICANT BENEFITS TO THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION, AND THAT TOO MUCH GOVERNMENT CONTROL AND INTERVENTION COULD STIFLE SUCH INITIATIVES. THERE MUST ALSO BE COGENT REASONS FOR WHICH, WHEREAS PRIMARY AND, INCREASINGLY, SECONDARY EDUCATION IS FREE AND COMPULSORY IN MANY PLACES, ONLY ONE OR TWO COUNTRIES ARE SUBSIDISING KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION FULLY.
PHILOSOPHY APART, THERE ARE ALSO THE INEVITABLE QUESTIONS OF WHETHER WE CAN AFFORD TO SUBSIDISE KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION FULLY, AND WHETHER THIS WILL BE A COST-EFFECTIVE THING TO DO. OUR ROUGH ESTIMATE IS THAT FULL SUBSIDISATION OF KINDERGARTENS WOULD COST SOME $1.3 BILLION A YEAR AT TODAY’S PRICES. BEARING IN MIND NUMEROUS OTHER COMPETING DEMANDS FOR RESOURCES WITHIN THE EDUCATION PROGRAMME AREA, WE MUST CONSIDER VERY CAREFULLY AND CRITICALLY WHETHER SUCH LEVELS OF EXPENDITURE ARE BOTH FULLY JUSTIFIED AND AFFORDABLE.
THE WAY AHEAD
PRIOR TO TODAY’S DEBATE, I HAVE ALREADY RECEIVED SPECIFIC PROPOSALS FROM A GROUP OF EDUCATIONAL BODIES, THROUGH MR CHEUNG MAN-KWONG, ON HOW THE IDEAS EMBODIED IN HIS MOTION MIGHT BE IMPLEMENTED. I HAVE ASKED THE WORKING PARTY ON KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION TO EXAMINE THOSE PROPOSALS IN DETAIL. MEMBERS WILL ALSO BE INTERESTED TO KNOW THAT THE EDUCATION COMMISSION HAS DECIDED AT ITS LAST MEETING TO TAKE ANOTHER LOOK AT THE AREA OF KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION. THE DELIBERATIONS OF THE WORKING PARTY COULD USEFULLY BE FED INTO THE COMMISSION. THE COMMISSION COULD ALSO USEFULLY TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE OUTCOME OF THE RESEARCH INTO PRE-PRIMARY EDUCATION WHICH IS BEING CONDUCTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE EVALUATION OF EDUCATION ACHIEVEMENT.
CONCLUSION
TO CONCLUDE, MR DEPUTY PRESIDENT, THE ADMINISTRATION IS ALREADY COMMITTED TO MAKING FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS IN THE KINDERGARTEN SECTOR AND WE ARE PREPARED TO LOOK AT OTHER PROPOSALS WITH AN OPEN MIND.
THANK YOU.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
7
BILL TO PROTECT OZONE LAYER INTRODUCED
******
A BILL WHICH ENABLES HONG KONG TO MEET ITS INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE 1987 MONTREAL PROTOCOL ON SUBSTANCES THAT DEPLETE THE OZONE LAYER IS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE OZONE LAYER PROTECTION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID THE PARTIES TO THE PROTOCOL AT ITS COPENHAGEN MEETING IN NOVEMBER 1992 DECIDED THAT THE PHASING OUT OF HALON CONSUMPTION SHOULD BE ACCELERATED TO JANUARY 1, 1994 WHILE THAT FOR CFCS (CHLOROFLUOROCARBONS), CARBON TETRACHLORIDE AND METHYL CHLOROFORM SHOULD BE PHASED OUT BY JANUARY 1, 1996.
THE BILL WILL EXTEND THE REGULATION-MAKING POWER OF THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL TO ENABLE THE DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION TO DECLARE A SCHEDULED SUBSTANCE TO BE A CONTROLLED REFRIGERANT, TO DETERMINE IF A TERRITORY COMPLIES WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE MONTREAL PROTOCOL.
IT ALSO EMPOWERS THE DIRECTOR TO APPROVE THE TYPE OF EQUIPMENT TO BE USED FOR RECOVERING OR RECYCLING A SCHEDULED SUBSTANCE, AND TO SPECIFY THE MANNER IN WHICH SUCH EQUIPMENT IS TO BE USED.
MR EASON SAID TWO REGULATIONS WOULD NEED TO BE MADE UNDER THE OZONE LAYER PROTECTION ORDINANCE.
THE OZONE LAYER PROTECTION (CONTROLLED REFRIGERANTS) REGULATION WILL PROHIBIT THE RELEASE INTO THE ATMOSPHERE OF CONTROLLED REFRIGERANTS USED IN LARGE-SCALE INSTALLATIONS AND IN MOTOR VEHICLES.
"TO CONSERVE THESE SCHEDULED SUBSTANCES, THE REGULATION WILL REQUIRE THAT IN RECOVERY AND RECYCLING, APPROVED EQUIPMENT MUST BE USED. IT WILL ALSO REQUIRE THAT DURING THE SERVICING, REPAIR OR DECOMMISSIONING OF REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT, RECORDS OF THE CONTROLLED REFRIGERANTS BE KEPT," HE SAID.
THE OZONE LAYER PROTECTION (PRODUCTS CONTAINING SCHEDULED SUBSTANCES) (IMPORT BANNING) REGULATION WILL FURTHER HELP HONG KONG TO MEET ITS INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE PROTOCOL BY PROHIBITING THE IMPORT OF CONTROLLED PRODUCTS FROM A TERRITORY WHICH IS NOT A PARTY TO THE PROTOCOL.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
0----------
/8 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 8 -
BETTER WAGE PROTECTION PROPOSED *****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS PROPOSED TO RAISE THE MAXIMUM LIMIT ON THE AMOUNT OF EX-GRATIA PAYMENT FROM THE PROTECTION OF WAGES ON INSOLVENCY FUND IN RESPECT OF ARREARS OF WAGES AND WAGES IN LIEU OF NOTICE.
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE PROTECTION OF WAGES ON INSOLVENCY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, SAID THE AIM WAS TO PROVIDE BETTER PROTECTION TO EMPLOYEES IN SITUATIONS WHERE THEIR EMPLOYERS HAVE BECOME INSOLVENT.
THE PRESENT MAXIMUM LIMITS HAVE NOT BEEN REVISED SINCE 1985 AND 1987 RESPECTIVELY.
"WE PROPOSE TO RAISE THE MAXIMUM EX-GRATIA PAYMENT IN RESPECT OF ARREARS OF WAGES FROM $8,000 TO $18,000 PER APPLICANT; AND THAT IN RESPECT OF WAGES IN LIEU OF NOTICE FROM SEVEN DAYS’ WAGES UP TO $2,000 TO ONE MONTH’S WAGES UP TO $6,000," MR CHAN SAID.
WITH THESE AMENDMENTS, OVER 90 PER CENT OF APPLICANTS FOR ARREARS OF WAGES WOULD BE ABLE TO RECOVER THEIR FULL ENTITLEMENTS.
"AS REGARDS WAGES IN LIEU OF NOTICE, THE REVISION WOULD INCREASE THE COVERAGE SUBSTANTIALLY ALTHOUGH WE CANNOT ASCERTAIN THE EXTENT OF THE INCREASE AT THIS STAGE.”
MR CHAN SAID THE PROPOSAL WOULD NOT INVOLVE ANY INCREASE IN LEVY AS THE EXISTING LEVEL OF LEVY, WHICH IS $250 A YEAR ON EACH BUSINESS REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE, WOULD BE SUFFICIENT TO COVER THE INCREASED PAYMENT FROM THE FUND.
THE BILL ALSO SEEKS TO SIMPLIFY THE PROCEDURE FOR ADJUSTING THE PAYMENT CEILING ON ARREARS OF WAGES BY PROVIDING FOR FUTURE ADJUSTMENTS TO BE MADE BY RESOLUTION OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
-----0------
BRITAIN WILL ENSURE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF JOINT DECLARATION
*****
BRITAIN’S PRINCIPAL OBLIGATION WITH RESPECT TO HONG KONG AFTER 1997 WILL BE TO ENSURE THAT THE JOINT DECLARATION IS FULLY AND FAITHFULLY IMPLEMENTED.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON CONRAD LAM IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
/MR SZE ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
MR SZE SAID AS A PARTY TO THE JOINT DECLARATION THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT WOULD BE ENTITLED TO TAKE UP WITH CHINA ANY QUESTION IT MIGHT HAVE IN RELATION TO THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS CONTAINED IN THE JOINT DECLARATION.
"MOREOVER, IN ACCORDANCE WITH PARAGRAPH 8 OE ANNEX II OF THE JOINT DECLARATION, THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP SHALL CONTINUE ITS WORK UNTIL 1 JANUARY 2000," HE SAID.
GOVERNOR'S TAX POSITION SET FOR REVIEW
**»»**
THE GOVERNOR HAS MADE IT CLEAR THAT ONCE THE FORTHCOMING MEMORANDUM ON THE QUEEN’S TAX POSITION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED, THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT SHOULD REVIEW IT CAREFULL) TO SEE IF IT HAS ANY IMPLICATIONS FOR HIS OWN TAX POSITION UNDER HONG KONG LAW.
THIS WAS STATED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, WHEN REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON FREDERICK FUNG KIN-KEE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
MR MACLEOD SAID THE GOVERNOR WAS NOT A MEMBER OF THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE. HE WAS APPOINTED BY THE QUEEN UNDER THE LETTERS PATENT AS HER MAJESTY’S REPRESENTATIVE IN HONG KONG.
"LIKE HIS PREDECESSORS, THE PRESENT GOVERNOR RECEIVES A SALARY, WHICH IS FIXED AT 125% OF THAI' OF THE CHIEF SECRETARY, AND A NON-ACCOUNTABLE ENTERTAINMENT ALLOWANCE," MR MACLEOD SAID.
THE SALARY ALSO ATTRACTS THE NORMAL CONTRACT GRATUITY, HE
ADDED.
THE SECRETARY SAID THE GOVERNOR WAS ALSO ELIGIBLE FOR A VARIETY OE BENEFITS NORMALLY AVAILABLE TO CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES ON SIMILAR TERMS, INCLUDING ANNUAL LEAVE PASSAGES, EDUCATION ALLOWANCES AND SO FORTH, PAYABLE IN CASH OR KIND.
THE GOVERNOR IS EXEMPT FROM SALARIES TAX BY VIRTUE OF SECTION 8(2)(A) OF THE INLAND REVENUE ORDINANCE, ENACTED IN 1947.
HIS TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE, INCLUDING THE FACT THAT HIS EMOLUMENTS ARE TAX-FREE, ARE ALSO SET OUT IN HIS FORMAL LETTER OF APPOINTMENT.
/10
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 10 -
NO PLAN TO REQUIRE POLITICAL ORGANISATIONS DISCLOSE SPONSORS ♦ * ♦ * ♦
THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT HAVE ANY PLAN TO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO REQUIRE POLITICAL ORGANISATIONS GENERALLY TO DISCLOSE THE SOURCE OF THEIR FINANCIAL SPONSORSHIP AND THE PARTICULARS OF THEIR EXPENDITURES.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR CONST I TUT IONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, WHEN REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON EMILY LAU WAI-HING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
’’OTHER THAN TWO EXCEPTIONS, THERE ARE AT PRESENT NO REQUIREMENT FOR POLITICAL ORGANISATIONS TO DISCLOSE TO THE GOVERNMENT DETAILS OF DONATIONS RECEIVED,” MR SZE SAID.
THESE EXCEPTIONS ARE:
* ANY POLITICAL ORGANISATION REGISTERED UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE AS A PUBLIC COMPANY IS UNDER A STATUTORY
REQUIREMENT TO FILE WJTH THE REGISTRAR OF COMPANIES EACH YEAR AUDITED INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS. THESE ARE OPEN TO PUBLIC INSPECTION AT THE COMPANIES REGISTRY.
* ANY POLITICAL ORGANISATION WHICH IS PERMITTED BY THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS UNDER THE SUMMARY OFFENCES ORDINANCE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR NON-CHARTTABLE PURPOSES IN PUBLIC PLACES, IS REQUIRED I’O SUBMIT ITS AUDITED ACCOUNTS, WHICH ARE MADE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION.
0
LEGISLATIONS NEEDED FOR CONSTITUTIONAL PROPOSALS
*****
THE VARIOUS CONSTITUTIONAL PROPOSALS PUT FORWARD BY THE GOVERNOR IN THE POLICY ADDRESS LAST YEAR ALL REQUIRE LEGISLATION FOR IMPLEMENATION.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTI TUTlONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY ’HIE HON HOWARD YOUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR SZE SAID AMENDMENTS TO SUCH LEGISLATION INCLUDED:
* ELECTORAL PROVISIONS ORDINANCE (CAP 367) -- FOR THE PROPOSALS OF LOWERING OF VOTING AGE AND THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE-VOTE SINGLE-SEAT SYSTEM FOR GEOGRAPH I ( CONST J I'UTENCY ELECTIONS;
* LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (ELECTORAL PROVISIONS) ORDINANCE (CAP 381) -- FOR THE PROPOSALS RELATING TO THE FUNCTIONAL
CONSTITUENCY SYSTEM;
/* URBAN COUNCIL ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
* URBAN COUNCIL ORDINANCE (CAP 101), REGIONAL COUNCIL ORDINANCE (CAP 385), DISTRICT BOARDS ORDINANCE (CAP 366) AND THE ELECTORAL PROVISIONS ORDINANCE -- FOR THE PROPOSED CHANGES IN THE MEMBERSHIP OE THE URBAN COUNCIL, REGIONAL COUNCIL AND DISTRICT BOARDS;
* ELECTORAL PROVISIONS ORDINANCE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (ELECTORAL PROVISIONS) ORDINANCE -- FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF ELECTION COMMITTEE.
MR SZE ADDED THAT NEW LEGISLATION AS WELL AS CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENTS TO THE ELECTORAL PROVISIONS ORDINANCE, THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (ELECTORAL PROVISIONS) ORDINANCE, 'HIE URBAN COUNCIL ORDINANCE, THE REGIONAL COUNCIL ORDINANCE, THE DISTRICT BOARDS ORDINANCE, THE PREVENTION OF BRIBERY ORDINANCE (CAP 201), AND THE CORRUPT AND ILLEGAL PRACTICES ORDINANCE (CAP 288) WOULD BE REQUIRED FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE BOUNDARY AND ELECTIONS COMMISSION.
”IT WILL ALSO REQUIRE NEW SUBSIDIARY LEGISLATION SETTING OUT DETAILED REGULATIONS UNDER WHICH THE COMMISSION WILL OPERATE, AND WILL ENTAIL AMENDMENTS TO FIVE ITEMS OE SUBSIDIARY LEGISLATION,” HE SAID.
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NO MAJOR PRIVATE DEVELOPMENTS WITHIN COUNTRY PARKS * ♦ * t ♦
NO MAJOR PRIVATE SECTOR DEVELOPMENTS ARE AT PRESENT UNDER CONSIDERATION WITHIN THE COUNTRY PARK AREAS, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON JIMMY MCGREGOR IN THE LEGISTLATIVE COUNCIL, MR EASON SAID PROPOSALS FOR DEVELOPMENT WITHIN COUNTRY PARKS WERE FOR PUBLIC PROJECTS INVOLVING UTILITIES OR ROADS.
PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS MAINLY INVOLVED SMALL VILLAGE HOUSES ON LEASED LAND, HE SAID.
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
12
RTHK PRODUCTION SUITABLY SUPERVISED
PROGRAMME PRODUCTION IN RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG (RTHK) IS SUITABLY SUPERVISED UNDER EXISTING WORKING PROCEDURES, THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CH IM PUI-CHUNG, MR SO SAID CONTENTS OF RTHK PROGRAMMES WERE ADEQUATELY MONITORED AND REVIEWED IN EDITORIAL MEETINGS TO GUARD AGAINST THEIR BEING BIASED AND USED FOR POLITICAL PROPAGANDA OR SLANDER.
MR SO SAID A CODE OF PRACTICE GOVERNING RTHK’S EDITORIAL POLICY WOULD BE TOO RIGID AND WOULD NOT PROVIDE SUFFICIENT FLEXIBILITY TO MEET WITH RAPIDLY CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES.
HOWEVER, HE SAID THE DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR ENSURING THAT A SYSTEM OF EDITORIAL CONTROL EXISTED WHICH RESULTED IN FAIR, BALANCED AND OBJECTIVE PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND NEWS PROGRAMMES BEING PRODUCED BY RTHK.
BUT HE CONCEDED THAT THERE WAS NO ABSOLUTE GUARANTEE THAT THE LINE MIGHT NOT BE CROSSED, ESPECIALLY WITH "LIVE" PROGRAMMES WHERE LISTENERS’ PHONE-IN SEGMENTS WERE INVOLVED.
"IN THESE PROGRAMMES THERE IS A NEED TO STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN LETTING THE CALLER SPEAK HIS MIND, CHALLENGING UNFAIR COMMENTS AND STOPPING ALTOGETHER ANY SLANDEROUS STATEMENTS," MR SO SAID.
"THE HANDLING OF SUCH PROGRAMMES IS A SUBJECT WHICH IS CLOSELY WATCHED BY, AND REGULARLY DISCUSSED AMONG, EDITORIAL STAFF IN RTHK,” HE ADDED.
MR SO ALSO TOLD THE COUNCIL THAT RTHK HAD RECEIVED 14 COMPLAINTS AGAINST ITS PROGRAMMES IN THE PAST THREE YEARS, FOUR ON TV AND 10 ON RADIO.
THESE COMPLAINTS HAVE BEEN THOROUGHLY EXAMINED BY THE HEADS IN THE PROGRAMME PRODUCTION DIVISIONS AND, WHERE NECESSARY, DIRECTIVES WERE ISSUED TO PREVENT SIMILAR OCCURRENCES IN FUTURE.
"WRITTEN REPLIES HAVE BEEN GIVEN TO COMPLAINANTS WHERE POSSIBLE," MR SO ADDED.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THERE WERE TWO CASES WHERE COMPLAINANTS, THROUGH THEIR SOLICITORS, CLAIMED THAT STATEMENTS MADE IN RTHK RADIO PROGRAMMES HAD CAUSED THEM EMBARRASSMENT AND HAI) DAMAGED THEIR REPUTATION.
"BOTH CASES WERE SETTLED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT, WITHOUT RESORTING TO LITIGATION,” MR SO SAID.
"IN ONE CASE, THE GOVERNMENT PAID THE COMPLAINANT’S LEGAL FEES OF $15,000 AND NO OTHER EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS HAS BEEN INCURRED," HE ADDED.
------0-------
Z13 .....
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 13 -
MEASURES TO DEAL WITH JUVENILE DELINQUENCY
*****
AN INTER-DEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP IS WORKING ON GUIDELINES FOR SCHOOL DISCIPLINE MASTERS ON WAYS OF DEALING WITH STUDENTS WITH TRIAD PROBLEMS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, WHEN REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON SELINA CHOW IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE WORKING GROUP, CONSISTING OF REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND THE POLICE, HAS BEEN SET UP TO CONSIDER HOW TO STRENGTHEN SUPPORT FOR SCHOOLS WITH TRIAD PROBLEMS.
TO OVERCOME THE RELUCTANCE AMONG STUDENTS TO REPORT CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES, MR ASPREY SAID THE POLICE WOULD SOON LAUNCH A PILOT SCHEME IN WONG TAI SIN AND WESTERN DISTRICTS INVOLVING A NEW, SPECIAL STUDENT CRIME REPORT FORM.
’’STUDENTS WILL BE ENCOURAGED TO USE THE FORM TO PROVIDE INFORMATION ON CRIME OR TRIAD ACTIVITY TN SCHOOLS ON AN ANONYMOUS BASIS; INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM THE FORMS WILL BE USED IN STRICT CONFIDENCE," HE SAID.
TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM OF JUVENILE DELINQUENCY, THE POLICE MAINTAIN GOOD LIAISON WITH AND RECEIVE GOOD CO-OPERATION FROM SCHOOLS, THE SECRETARY SAID.
INFORMATION ON TRIAD AND OTHER CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES IN SCHOOLS IS OBTAINED FROM A NUMBER OF SOURCES, INCLUDING CRIME REPORTS, SCHOOL AUTHORITIES AND PARENTS.
"POLICE LIAISON OFFICERS VISIT SCHOOLS REGULARLY TO GIVE TALKS TO STUDENTS ON THE NATURE AND CONSEQUENCES OF TRIAD AND OTHER CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES.
"THEY ALSO LIAISE CLOSELY WITH HEADMASTERS AND TEACHERS, AND ADVISE ON HOW TO DEAL WITH UNRULY AND DELINQUENT BEHAVIOUR IN SCHOOLS," HE SAID.
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/14 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
NORMAL SCHOOLING FOR HIV-POSITIVE STUDENTS
*****
THE RISK OF TRANSMITTING THE AIDS VIRUS IN THE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT IS CONSIDERED BY THE MEDICAL PROFESSION TO BE VERY LOW PROVIDED THAT PROPER PRECAUTIONS ARE TAKEN AGAINST BLOOD-BORNE DISEASES, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MRS PEGGY LAM, MR CHAN SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY REGARDING HIV-POSITIVE STUDENTS WAS THAT THEY SHOULD BE EDUCATED IN THE NORMAL SCHOOL SETTING AS LONG AS THEY WERE MEDICALLY FIT TO DO SO.
"IF A SCHOOL EXPELS OR REFUSES TO TAKE BACK AN HIV-POSITIVE STUDENT WHO IS CONSIDERED SUITABLE FOR NORMAL SCHOOLING, THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION HAS AVAILABLE, UNDER THE CODE OF AID, THE ULTIMATE SANCTION OF REDUCING OR WITHDRAWING ANY SUBSIDY TO THAT SCHOOL," HE SAID.
ON A RECENT CASE IN WHICH THE SCHOOL HAD BEEN UNWILLING TO TAKE BACK AN HIV-INFECTED STUDENT BECAUSE OF OPPOSITION FROM PARENTS OF OTHER CHILDREN AT THE SCHOOL, MR CHAN SAID THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAD, WITH THE FULL AGREEMENT OF THE PARENTS CONCERNED, ADOPTED A PRAGMATIC ATTITUDE AND MADE INTERIM ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE STUDENT TO CONTINUE HIS EDUCATION IN A SMALL GROUP SETTING.
THE AIM IS TO PLACE HIM IN AN ORDINARY SCHOOL AS SOON AS PRACTICABLE.
"IN THE CIRCUMSTANCES, IT IS CONSIDERED INAPPROPRIATE TO CONTEMPLATE ANY ACTION AGAINST THE SCHOOL TN QUESTION,” MR CHAN SAID.
APART FROM THIS CASE, MR CHAN SAID NO STUDENT AGED BELOW 16 HAD BEEN FORMALLY EXPELLED FROM SCHOOL AFTER HAVING CONTRACTED AIDS DURING TREATMENT FOR HAEMOPHILIA.
ALL BEDSPACE APARTMENTS TO BE LICENSED BY 1995 ♦ * t t * t
ALL BEDSPACE APARTMENTS ARE EXPECTED TO OPERATE UNDER LICENCE BY THE END OF 1995 AND ALL THE DISPLACED LODGERS WILL BE ACCOMMODATED IN ALTERNATIVE HOUSING.
THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR ALBERT LAM CHI-CHIU, INFORMED THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY '1'0 A QUESTION BY THE HON MAN SAI-CHEONG, MR LAM SAID A BILL ON THIS WAS BEING DRAFTED AND SUBJECT TO THE ADVICE OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, IT WOULD BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE CURRENT SESSION.
/THE GOVERNMENT,
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 15 -
THE GOVERNMENT, HE SAID, HAD UNDERTAKEN TWO YEARS AGO TO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO LICENSE BEDSPACE APARTMENTS WITH A VIEW TO REGULATING THEIR FIRE AND STRUCTURAL SAFETY.
AS THE NEW SAFETY STANDARDS MAY RESULT IN LOWERING THE OCCUPANCY RATE OF SOME BEDSPACE APARTMENTS, THE GOVERNMENT HAD AGREED THAT NO LODGERS WOULD BE RENDERED HOMELESS DUE TO LICENSING.
HOWEVER, MR LAM SAID THERE WAS NO PROMISE TO REHOUSE ALL LODGERS, WHO NUMBERED ABOUT 4,100 AT PRESENT.
ON SINGLETON HOSTELS, MR LAM SAID THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION HAD BEEN BUILDING UP A STOCK WITH A COMBINED CAPACITY FOR ABOUT 160 PEOPLE IN THE PAST TWO YEARS.
HE SAID THE PRESENT CAPACITY WAS ABLE TO MEET ALL THE CURRENT DEMAND AND THAT THERE WERE NO BEDSPACE APARTMENT LODGERS ON THE WAITING LIST FOR THESE HOSTELS.
DESPITE THIS, HE ASSURED THAT THE ADMINISTRATION WOULD CONTINUE TO ACQUIRE SUITABLE FLATS AS SINGLETON HOSTELS TO MEET DEMAND.
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PROFITS TAX ON HK DOLLAR DEPOSIT INTEREST REMAINED
*****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS NO INTENTION OF ELIMINATING PROFITS TAX CURRENTLY PAYABLE BY HONG KONG COMPANIES ON HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSIT INTEREST.
THIS WAS STATED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY, MR K Y YEUNG, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON LI KWOK-PO IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
MR YEUNG SAID HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSIT INTEREST RECEIVED BY COMPANIES CARRYING ON A TRADE, PROFESSION OR BUSINESS IN HONG KONG, WAS CHARGEABLE TO PROFITS TAX BECAUSE IT WAS DERIVED FROM HONG KONG.
HE SAID: "IT IS A FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE OF OUR TAXATION SYSTEM THAT INCOME WHICH HAS A SOURCE IN HONG KONG IS TAXABLE, AND THAT EXEMPTIONS ARE ONLY PROVIDED IN EXCEPTIONAL CASES, WHERE THERE ARE OVER-RIDING POLICY CONSIDERATIONS.
"THIS APPROACH ALLOWS US TO COLLECT TAX EFFICIENTLY AND AT A RELATIVELY LOW COST WHEN COMPARED TO OTHER TAX JURISDICTIONS."
HE ADDED THAT TO EXEMPT PROFITS TAX ON THIS INTEREST WOULD NOT ONLY BREACH THIS IMPORTANT POLICY PRINCIPLE BUT WOULD ALSO HAVE SIGNIFICANT REVENUE IMPLICATIONS.
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/16
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
16 HOSPITAL PROPOSAL FOR NORTH DISTRICT UNDER CONSIDERATION
THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY HAS CONDUCTED A REVIEW ON THE DEMAND AND SUPPLY OF HOSPITAL BEDS JN HONG KONG UP TO THE YEAR 2000, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY REV THE HON FUNG CHI-WOOD IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MRS WONG NOTED THAT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PLANNING GENERAL HOSPITAL BEDS, THE NEW TERRITORIES WAS CONSIDERED AS A REGION.
INFIRMARY AND PSYCHIATRIC BEDS, HOWEVER, ARE PLANNED ON A TERRITORY-WIDE BASIS.
’’TAKING INTO ACCOUNT PROJECTS IN THE PIPELINE, THERE WILL BE AN ESTIMATED SHORTFALL OF GENERAL BEDS IN THE REGION,” SHE SAID.
"ON THIS BASIS, THE AUTHORITY HAS PROPOSED THAT NORTH DISTRICT HOSPITAL WITH 600 GENERAL BEDS SHOULD BE BUILT.
"THIS PROPOSAL IS UNDER ACTIVE CONSIDERATION BY THE ADMINISTRATION AND AN ANNOUNCEMENT WILL BE MADE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE."
MRS WONG ALSO NOTED THAT THERE WERE 51,279 ATTENDANCES AT THE ACCIDENT AND EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT OF FANLING HOSPITAL LAST YEAR. THIS COMPARED WITH 47,222 IN 1991 AND 43,683 IN 1990.
OF THE ATTENDANCES TN 1992, 6,653 CASES WERE REFERRED TO OTHER HOSPITALS, MAINLY TO THE PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL.
"THE TRAVELLING TIME FROM FANLING HOSPITAL TO PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE IS ABOUT 20 MINUTES, WHICH IS COMPARABLE TO WORLDWIDE STANDARDS FOR SIMILAR TRANSFERS,” MRS WONG STATED.
STATISTICS SHOWING THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PATIENTS TREATED IN FANLING HOSPITAL AND THOSE TRANSFERRED TO OTHER HOSPITALS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
PATIENTS PATIENTS
YEAR TREATED TRANSFERRED
1990 1,441 268
1991 1,253 322
1992 1,404 513
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
17
MORE ANTI-SMOKING PLANS UNDER STUDY ******
THE GOVERNMENT IS EXAMINING PROPOSALS FOR FURTHER ANTI-SMOKING MEASURES AS A RESULT OF RECENT EXTENSIVE PUBLIC CONSULTATION, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HENRY TANG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MRS WONG SAID LAW ENFORCEMENT WAS NOT THE ONLY FOCUS OF THE GOVERNMENT’S PACKAGE OF MEASURES TO DISCOURAGE SMOKING, PARTICULARLY AMONG THE YOUNG.
’’EMPHASIS HAS ALWAYS BEEN ON PUBLIC EDUCATION TO INFORM PEOPLE OF THE HEALTH RISKS OF SMOKING AND TO DISCOURAGE THEM FROM SMOKING OR TO ENCOURAGE THEM TO QUIT,” SHE SAID.
NOTING THAT SMOKING IS ALREADY PROHIBITED IN PUBLIC AREAS IN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, MRS WONG SAID WHETHER TO EXTEND SUCH PROHIBITION TO ADDITIONAL PUBLIC ENCLOSED PLACES WAS CURRENTLY BEING EXAMINED.
CITING INFORMATION FROM PUBLIC TRANSPORT OPERATORS, MRS WONG SAID DURING THE PERIOD FROM AUGUST TO DECEMBER 1992, ONLY ONE CASE HAD HAD TO BE REFERRED TO THE POLICE FOR PROSECUTION UNDER THE SMOKING (PUBLIC HEALTH) (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE.
’’THE LAW EMPOWERS MANAGEMENTS TO ENFORCE SMOKING PROHIBITION IN THEIR PREMISES AND VEHICLES,” SHE SAID.
"SO FAR, ONLY ONE PUBLIC TRANSPORT OPERATOR HAS INFORMED ME OF DIFFICULTIES IN ENFORCING THE NEW PROVISIONS, LARGELY BECAUSE OF HOSTILE RESPONSE FROM SOME UNCO-OPERATIVE SMOKERS," SHE SAID.
’’OTHER OPERATORS HAVE REPORTED NO MAJOR PROBLEMS, AS MOST PASSENGERS ARE WELL AWARE OF, AND RESPECT, THE PROHIBITION ON SMOKING IN PUBLIC TRANSPORT,” MRS WONG ADDED.
--------0
CHARGING SCHEME FOR CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT
*****
A CHARGING SCHEME TO RECOVER THE CAPITAL COST AND OPERATING EXPENSES OF THE CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT FACILITY (CWTF) ON TSING Y1 WILL BE ESTABLISHED.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON SAMUEL WONG, IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID A CONSULTANCY STUD\ TO EXAMINE THE FEASIBILITY OF VARIOUS CHARGING METHODS WAS DUE FOR COMPLETION IN MARCH THIS YEAR.
/’’THEREAFTER RECOMMENDATIONS ......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 18 -
’’THEREAFTER RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE WAY FORWARD WILL BE MADE TO THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL AND ANY LEGISLATIVE CHANGES WHICH MAY BE REQUIRED WILL BE CONSIDERED," HE SAID.
HE SAID THE CAPITAL COST OF THE CWTF WOULD BE REPAID BY THE GOVERNMENT IN 60 EQUAL MONTHLY INSTALMENTS OVER THE FIRST FIVE YEARS OF THE FACTORY’S OPERATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS OF THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE CONTRACTOR.
YEARS,
MR EASON SAID THE ANNUAL OPERATING COST IN THE FIRST FOUR FROM 1993/94 TO 1996/97, WAS ESTIMATED TO BE $242 MILLION.
--------0----------
FUTURE HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS UNDER REVIEW *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS CURRENTLY REVIEWING HONG KONG’S HOLIDAYS WITH A VIEW TO CONSIDERING WHICH OF THE PRESENT HOLIDAYS SHOULD BE RETAINED AND WHETHER THERE IS A NEED FOR ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT HOLIDAYS AFTER 1997.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON PANG CHUN-HOI IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, SAID THE GOVERNMENT RECOGNISED THAT SOME CHANGES WOULD HAVE TO BE MADE IN FUTURE TO THE PRESENT HOLIDAYS TO REFLECT THE CHANGE OF SOVEREIGNTY.
’’SINCE THE HOLIDAYS FOR ANY YEAR NEED TO BE DECIDED AT LEAST EIGHT MONTHS BEFORE THE BEGINNING OF THAT YEAR SO AS TO FACILITATE THE PREPARATION OF DIARIES, TIMETABLES AND SO ON, SOME ADVANCE PLANNING AND DISCUSSION WILL BE NECESSARY TO ENSURE A SMOOTH TRANSITION IN 1997,” HE EXPLAINED.
AT PRESENT, THERE ARE TWO SETS OF HOLIDAYS IN HONG KONG -GENERAL HOLIDAYS PROVIDED UNDER THE HOLIDAY ORDINANCE, WHICH CONSIST OF ALL SUNDAYS AND 17 WEEKDAYS A YEAR, AND 11 STATUTORY HOLIDAYS PROVIDED UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE.
MR CHAN TOLD THE COUNCIL THAT THE REVIEW WOULD INCLUDE CONSIDERATION OF WHETHER MAY I, BEING INTERNATIONAL LABOUR DAY, SHOULD BE DESIGNATED AS A HOLIDAY IN HONG KONG \ND, IF SO, FROM WHICH YEAR ONWARDS.
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/19 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
19
OVER 1,200 PROSECUTIONS AGAINST TAXI DRIVERS IN 1992
*****
A TOTAL OF 1,295 PROSECUTIONS HAVE BEEN INSTITUTED AGAINST TAXI DRIVERS FOR MALPRACTICES IN 1992.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MIRIAM LAU IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
FOR 1991 AND 1990, THE NUMBERS OF PROSECUTIONS BY WAY OF FIXED PENALTY TICKETS ISSUED WERE 188 AND 196 AND THAT BY SUMMONS AND ARRESTS WERE 678 AND 585 RESPECTIVELY.
MR LEUNG SAID ACCORDING TO PROVISIONAL FIGURES FOR 1992, THE NUMBER OF PROSECUTIONS BY FIXED PENALTY TICKETS WAS 426 AND THAT BY SUMMONS AND ARRESTS TOTALLED 869.
THE AVERAGE CONVICTION RATE WAS 66.7 PER CENT AND THE AVERAGE FINE WAS $450.
THE MAIN OFFENCES WERE REFUSING HIRE, TAXIMETER OFFENCES, STOPPING ELSEWHERE THAN AT TAXI STAND AND FAILING TO DRIVE TO DESTINATION BY THE MOST DIRECT ROUTE.
----0------
CARE FOR PATIENTS NOT JUST A MATTER OF LAW
******
THE QUESTION OF TREATMENT OF A PATIENT IS A MATTER FOR CLINICAL JUDGEMENT, INVOLVING MEDICAL ETHICS, AND NOT JUST LAW.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, WHEN REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON LEONG CHE-HUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MRS WONG SAID PRIVATE HOSPITALS AND CLINICS WERE REQUIRED TO BE REGISTERED WITH THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH AND MUST SATISFY HIM AS TO THE FITNESS OF STAFF, ACCOMMODATION, EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES APPROPRIATE TO THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH THEY WERE SET UP UNDER THE HOSPITAL, NURSING HOMES AND MATERNITY HOMES REGISTRATION ORDINANCE.
"THE TYPE OF SERVICES OFFERED BY PRIVATE HOSPITALS AND CLINICS MUST THEREFORE BE TN KEEPING WITH THEIR REGISTRATION," SHF SAID.
APART FROM THE LAW, MRS WONG CONTINUED, DOCTORS WERE THEMSELVES GOVERNED BY THE PROFESSIONAL CODE OF PRACTICE ISSUED BY THE MEDICAL COUNCIL OF HONG KONG.
THE INTERNATIONAL CODE OF MEDICAL ETHICS ALSO REQUIRES EVERY MEDICAL PRACTITIONER TO ALWAYS BEAR IN MIND THE OBLIGATION OF PRESERVING HUMAN LIFE AND CALLS UPON HIM TO GIVE EMERGENCY CARE AS A HUMANITARIAN DUTY UNLESS HE IS ASSURED THAT OTHFRS ARE WILLING AND ABLE TO GIVE SUCH CARE, SHE ADDED.
------0--------
/20 .....
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
20
NO COMPLAINTS AGAINST SCHOOLS USING UNSUITABLE TEXTBOOKS * * * * *
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT INSPECTORS VISIT SCHOOLS REGULARLY TO INSPECT TEACHERS’ WORK AND OBSERVE LESSONS AND OFFER ADVICE ON CURRICULUM AND TEACHING, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, SAID.
THROUGH THESE VISITS, HE NOTED, SCHOOLS USING UNSUITABLE TEXTBOOKS CAN BE IDENTIFIED AND MEASURES TAKEN TO RECTIFY THE SITUATION.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ERIC LI KA-CHEUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR CHAN SAID THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAD NOT RECEIVED ANY COMPLAINTS IN THE PAST FIVE YEARS AGAINST SCHOOLS REQUIRING PUPILS TO USE TEXTBOOKS COMPILED FOR A DIFFERENT LEVEL.
"IF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT RECEIVES ANY SUCH COMPLAINTS, IT WILL CHECK THE TEXTBOOK LIST OF THE SCHOOL CONCERNED TO FIND OUT WHETHER BOOKS OF AN UNSUITABLE LEVEL HAVE BEEN FORMALLY ADOPTED BY THE SCHOOL," HE SAID.
"EDUCATION DEPARTMENT INSPECTORS WILL ALSO VISIT THE SCHOOL TO CHECK WHETHER UNSUITABLE BOOKS HAVE BEEN USED BY TEACHERS IN PRACTICE, EVEN THOUGH THEY MAY NOT HAVE BEEN INCLUDED FORMALLY IN THE SCHOOL’S TEXTBOOK LIST."
MR CHAN SAID IF THE COMPLAINT WAS SUBSTANTIATED, THE SCHOOL WOULD BE ASKED TO STOP USING THE UNSUITABLE BOOKS, FAILING WHICH THE SCHOOL MANAGEMENT WOULD BE GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE UNDER REGULATION 92(8) OF THE EDUCATION REGULATIONS AND BE LIABLE UPON CONVICTION TO A FINE OF $5,000 AND TO IMPRISONMENT FOR ONE YEAR.
MR CHAN ALSO NOTED THAT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT REGULARLY ISSUED RECOMMENDED TEXTBOOK LISTS WHICH PROVIDED A RANGE OF CHOICES OF TEXTBOOKS SUITABLE FOR. EACH LEVEL OF EDUCATION.
SCHOOLS ARE ADVISED TO SELECT TEXTBOOKS FROM THESE LISTS AND THOSE WHICH CHOOSE BOOKS OUTSIDE THEM ARE NORMALLY REQUIRED TO JUSTIFY THEIR CHOICE, HE ADDED.
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/21 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 21
ACCIDENTS STATISTICS COMPILED BY CAUSE * * * * *
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, SAID INFORMATION ON CONSTRUCTION SITE ACCIDENTS WAS COMPILED BY CAUSE FOR THE PURPOSE OF PREVENTION.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON LAU CHIN-SHEK IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR CHAN EXPLAINED THAT STATISTICS ON SUCH ACCIDENTS BY REFERENCE TO INDIVIDUAL COMPANIES WOULD NOT PROVIDE RELIABLE INDICATORS OF THE SAFETY PERFORMANCE OF INDIVIDUAL COMPANIES.
THIS IS RECAUSE:
* THEY WOULD BE BIASED AGAINST CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES WITH A LARGE NUMBER OF SITES AND EMPLOYEES;
* THEY WOULD NOT BE COMPREHENSIVE SINCE, UNDER THE EMPLOYEES COMPENSATION ORDINANCE, AN EMPLOYER IS NOT REQUIRED TO REPORT AN OCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENT IF THE INJURY RESULTS IN TEMPORARY INCAPACITY OF LESS THAN FOUR DAYS; AND
* AN INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENT OCCURRING ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE MAY BE REPORTED BY THE PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR OR ONE OF ITS SUBCONTRACTORS ACCORDING TO DIFFERENT AGREEMENTS OR
CONTRACTS BETWEEN THE PARTIES.
-----0------
STATISTICS ON GRADUATE AND NON-GRADUATE TEACHERS
******
OF THE 11,229 GRADUATE TEACHERS SERVING IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN OCTOBER 1991 AND HOLDING A COMMONWEALTH DEGREE, 434 SERVED AS NONGRADUATE TEACHERS IN OCTOBER 1989 OR OCTOBER 1990, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BV THE HON T1K CHI-YUEN, MR CHAN SAID THERE WERE 303, 321, AND 399 HOLDERS OF COMMONWEALTH DEGREES AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS IN 1989, 1990 AND 1991 RESPECTIVELY.
STATISTICS ON TEACHERS FOR THE SCHOOL YEARS BEGINNING 1992 OR BEFORE 1989 ARE NOT YET AVAILABLE.
/THE NUMBERS .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
22
THE NUMBERS OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS WITH NONSTANDARD QUALIFICATIONS OVER THE SAME THREE YEARS WERE:
1989 1990 1991
PRIMARY 1,431 1,604 1 ,334
SECONDARY 875 1 ,483 988
-----0------
CHANGE OF STREET NAMES A MATTER
*****
FOR SAR GOVT
ANY CHANGE OF STREET NAMES AFTER 1997 WILL BE A MATTER FOR THE SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION GOVERNMENT.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON JAMES TO KUN-SUN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
’’THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT HAVE PLANS TO CHANGE STREET NAMES WHICH HAVE COLONIAL IMPLICATIONS BEFORE 1997,” HE ADDED.
- 0------------
REVISION OF FEES AND PENALTIES UNDER BUSINESS REGISTRATION ORDINANCE *****
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) PASSED A MOTION TO REVISE VARIOUS FEES AND PENALTIES PAYABLE UNDER THE BUSINESS REGISTRATION ORDINANCE.
MOVING THE MOTION TO TAKE EFFECT THE REVISIONS ON MARCH 1, 1993, THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY, MR K Y YEUNG SAID THE REGISTRATION FEE IN RESPECT OF A BRANCH OF BUSINESS AND THE MAIN BUSINESS REGISTRATION FEE WOULD BE REVISED IN LINE WITH THE INCREASES IN COSTS SINCE THEY WERE LAST INTRODUCED OR REVIEWED.
/HE ALSO .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 23 -
HE ALSO SAID THE PENALTIES FOR NON-PAYMENT OF BUSINESS REGISTRATION FEES AND BRANCH REGISTRATION FEES HAD BEEN KEPT AT THEIR PRESENT LEVEL SINCE 1975 AND 1984 RESPECTIVELY.
TO PRESERVE THE DETERRENT EFFECT, MR YEUNG SAID THE PENALTIES SHOULD BE INCREASED FROM $50 AND $15 TO $150 AND $60 RESPECTIVELY.
HE ADDED THAT THE REVISIONS WOULD REVENUE OF $68 MILLION A YEAR.
BRING ABOUT AN ADDITIONAL
--------0 -----------
AMENDMENT MOTION ON RETIREMENT PROTECTION PASSED
*****
AN AMENDMENT MOTION ON RETIREMENT PROTECTION MOVED BY THE HON TIK CHI-YUEN WAS PASSED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TONIGHT (WEDNESDAY).
A TOTAL OF 26 MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE DEBATE WHICH LASTED FOR THREE HOURS. THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, SPOKE ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT.
THE ORIGINAL MOTION MOVED BY THE HON HUI YIN-FAT AND
ANOTHER AMENDMENT MOTION BY THE HON J D MCGREGOR WERE DEFEATED.
A MOTION ON KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION MOVED BY THE HON CHEUNG MAN-KWONG WAS PASSED AFTER A TWO-HOUR DEBATE.
A TOTAL OF 15 MEMBERS SPOKE. THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, SPOKE ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT.
TWO MOTIONS MOVED BY THE HON ELSIE TU UNDER HONG KONG ROYAL INSTRUCTIONS 1917 TO 1991 AND B> THE HON LEE WING-TAT UNDER INTERPRETATION AND GENERAL CLAUSES ORDINANCE RESPECTIVELY WERE PASSED.
ANOTHER MOTION MOVED BY THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY MR K Y YEUNG UNDER THE BUSINESS RFC, I STR. AT ION ORDINANCE WAS ALSO PASSED.
-----0------
/24.........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 24 -
OUTCOME OF GOVERNOR’S TREATMENT VERY SATISFACTORY
*****
A GOVERNMENT HOUSE SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, ENTERED THE QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL THIS MORNING FOR TREATMENT FOR A CORONARY DISORDER.
THE TREATMENT, KNOWN AS PERCUTANEOUS ANGIOPLASTY (PTCA), WAS CARRIED OUT AT THE LABORATORY AND WENT VERY SMOOTHLY.
BOTH OF THE OCCLUDED ARTERIES HAVE BEEN OF DOCTORS PERFORMING THE TREATMENT DESCRIBED AS VERY SATISFACTORY.
MR PATTEN CAN NOW BE EXPECTED TO MAKE A
TRANS LUMINAL CORONARY LEW IS CATHETERISATION
CLEARED AND THE TEAM THE IMMEDIATE OUTCOME
RAPID RECOVERY.
MR PATTEN WILL REMAIN TN HOSPITAL FOR TWO OR THREE DAYS AND HE WILL REST AT HOME FOR A FURTHER WEEK. THE TREATMENT TOOK ABOUT TWO-AND-A-HALF HOURS UNDER LOCAL ANAESTHETIC.
MRS PATTEN WAS WITH THE GOVERNOR THROUGHOUT.
MR PATTEN IS IN GOOD SPIRITS AND HAS THANKED THE MANY WELL-WISHERS WHO HAVE SENT FLOWERS AND MESSAGES.
0---------
RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE CEILING TO STAY: FS
*****
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, SAID THIS (WEDNESDAY) MORNING THAT THE GUIDELINE OF 70 PER CENT MORTGAGE CEILING FOR RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES HAS HELPED TO COOL THE PROPERTY MARKET AND TO CURB EXCESSIVE SPECULATION.
THE GUIDELINE WAS INTRODUCED IN NOVEMBER 1991 BY THE BANKING SECTOR WITH THE ENCOURAGEMENT AND SUPPORT OF THE GOVERNMENT.
HOWEVER, MR MACLEOD CAUTIONED THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT THE GAINS FROM THE INTRODUCTION OF THIS GUIDELINE WERE NOT THROWN AWAY BY PREMATURE RELAXATION.
HE MADE THESE REMARKS DURING A MEETING WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF THE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG WHO ASKED FOR RELAXATION OF THE CEILING.
/THE FINANCIAL .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
25
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TOLD REPRESENTATIVES THAT THE EASING OF PROPERTY PRICES BY FIVE TO 15 PER CENT FROM THEIR PEAK LAST SUMMER WERE HEALTHY CORRECTIONS.
HOWEVER, HE POINTED OUT THAT THE PRICE LEVELS WERE STILL ALMOST DOUBLE WHAT THEY WERE AT THE BEGINNING OF 1991.
HE ALSO WARNED THAT ANOTHER OUTBURST OF SPECULATIVE ACTIVITIES AND RISING PROPERTY PRICES COULD NOT BE RULED OUT IF THE CEILING WAS RELAXED TOO EARLY.
THERE WAS ALSO THE FACT THAT INTEREST RATES WERE STILL AT LOW LEVELS IN COMPARISON WITH CURRENT INFLATION.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY FURTHER NOTED THAT THERE WAS CONSIDERABLE BACKING IN THE BANKING SECTOR FOR MAINTAINING THE CEILING AS THEY THEMSELVES WERE CONCERNED ABOUT THEIR EXPOSURE TO THE PROPERTY MARKET.
’’THERE WAS ALSO A WIDE MEASURE OF SUPPORT AMONG THE COMMUNITY AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS,” HE ADDED.
HOWEVER, HE ASSURED THE REPRESENTATIVES THAT THE SITUATION WOULD BE KEPT UNDER REVIEW.
HE ADDED THAT IF AT SOME TIME IN THE FUTURE THE CEILING WAS TO BE RELAXED, SERIOUS CONSIDERATION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THE INTERESTS OF GENUINE END-USERS AND FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS, IF THIS PROVED TO BE A PRACTICAL POSSIBILITY.
726 ........
S iE 38 $ fl- W cf' ' <h ft % W tt. (ft <fi IS & © ( TI ffl ig -fd 7 h” #J 99♦ 9 V- fi % )
Price Movements in Selected Residential Developments - Smoll/Medium Units (saleable area not exceeding 99.9 m2)
Index (10/31 to 3/92 - 100)
Mfi»riiiMtmire ,iw ,.»>w (----r---(----,----,----।---, — ,-----,---,......................................
i/ei j/tff j/»i 4/tti o/toi a/»i a/181 */*i lo/si 11/n u/»t »/•* tfti yii 4/92 s/»z «/w //u fl/w e/w io/bz h/mu/bz i/wi £ fj) / ft Uonlh/Yecr
Th a fades* are based on on cnolyifs of prices pofd for comdetod flats as recorded in Sale md Purchase ayeements.
. B , Oue la ttie-tinie lug of recording the tromcctfono, the indicia for (hs feat two to three menths ore based on adjusted asking prices iu those rnonttri.
± 5>J JTr % ® ® W 'F RI ft ff) M tfi » tft Si K !$ fJJ /T M 55 SJ
iC St ’ ± ft 179 4N J1) ffiF ‘F ffi) «l iff JKI fit {/< « ->
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 27 -
EXCO ENDORSES GOVT’S APPROACH TO CATHAY PACIFIC DISPUTE * * * * *
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAD ENDORSED THE GOVERNMENT’S EVEN-HANDED APPROACH TO THE CATHAY PACIFIC DISPUTE AND COMMENDED THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR AND HER LABOUR RELATIONS TEAM FOR THEIR HARD WORK AND PROFESSIONALISM.
’’THE GOVERNMENT IS PLEASED THAT THE STRIKE IS OVER AND THAT THE COMPANY’S OPERATIONS ARE NOW BACK TO NORMAL," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
’’IT IS HOPED THAT THE TWO SIDES CAN RESOLVE THE REMAINING DIFFERENCES THROUGH AMICABLE NEGOTIATIONS.
"THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR DEVELOPMENTS AND PROVIDE ASSISTANCE IF REQUIRED."
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY OF STRICT NEUTRALITY IN SUCH PRIVATE DISPUTES IS CORRECT.
NONETHELESS, THE GOVERNOR HAS ASKED THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, TO CONSIDER WHAT LESSONS MIGHT BE LEARNED FROM THE DISPUTE.
"THE GOVERNMENT BELIEVES THAT IT IS IN THE COMMUNITY’S INTEREST THAT WE AVOID HASTY DECISIONS ON SUCH COMPLEX ISSUES AFFECTING LABOUR RELATIONS.
"HONG KONG’S LABOUR RELATIONS RECORD IS VERY GOOD BY INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS AND IT SHOULD NOT BE ASSUMED THAT PRACTICE ELSEWHERE WOULD NECESSARILY SUIT HONG KONG’S CIRCUMSTANCES," HE ADDED.
--------0------------
GOVT FETCHES $3,694 MILLION IN LAND SALE *****
TWO PIECES OF GOVERNMENT LAND WERE SOLD FOR A TOTAL OF $3,694 MILLION IN A PUBLIC AUCTION BY THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT THIS (WEDNESDAY) AFTERNOON.
THE FIRST LOT, LOCATED LUNG POON STREET, DIAMOND HILL, KOWLOON, WAS SOLD TO MULLEIN COMPANY LTD, BRIGHT SMART LTD, EXCELLENT BASE LTD, WETTERSLEY COMPANY LTD AND CHARRIS COMPANY LTD AT $3,530 MILLION, BIDDING OPENED AT $2,400 MILLION.
WITH AN AREA OF ABOUT $26,060 SQU \RF METRES, THE LOT IS INTENDED FOR NON-INDUSTRIAL (EXCLUDING GODOWN, HOTEL AND PETROL FILLING STATION) PURPOSES INCLUDING A PUBLIC TRANSPORT TERMINUS AND A PUBLIC TOILET.
/THE BUILDING .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 28 -
THE BUILDING COVENANT STIPULATES THAT THE DEVELOPER HAS TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 95,000 SQUARE METRES ON OR BEFORE MARCH 31, 1997.
THE OTHER LOT, LOCATED IN AREA 30A, SHEUNG SHU I, NEW TERRITORIES, WAS BOUGHT BY STRATHGEATH INVESTMENT LTD AT $164 MILLION WITH BIDDING OPENED AT $90 MILLION.
THE LOT, ABOUT 12,020 SQUARE METRES, IS EARMARKED FOR INDUSTRIAL AND/OR GODOWN PURPOSES (EXCLUDING GODOWN FOR DANGEROUS GOODS).
THE DEVELOPER HAS TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 18,030 SQUARE METRES ON OR BEFORE MARCH 31, 1997.
THE LAND AUCTION WAS CONDUCTED BY GOVERNMENT LAND AGENT, MR JOHN CORRIGALL, IN THE JADE BALLROOM OF HOTEL FURAMA.
----------0-------------
RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY REPORT RECEIVED
******
THE GOVERNMENT HAS RECEIVED THE CONSULTANTS’ DRAFT FINAL REPORT ON THE RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STUDY.
THIS STUDY RECOMMENDS A STRATEGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TERRITORY’S RAIL SYSTEM UP TO 2011.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT BRANCH SAID: " WE ARE STUDYING THE RECOMMENDATIONS AND INTEND TO CONSULT THE PUBLIC STARTING IN MARCH.”
"A CONSULTATION DOCUMENT WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE, AND THE PUBLIC WILL BE INVITED TO COMMENT ON THE MAJOR FINDINGS OF THE STUDY, INCLUDING RAILWAY PROJECTS RECOMMENDED FOR IMPLEMENTATION, THEIR ALIGNMENTS, AND THE PROPOSED IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMME."
’’BRIEFINGS WILL BE ARRANGED FOR THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE, THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TRANSPORT PANEL AND DISTRICT BOARDS,” THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
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/29 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
29
HK-BASED FORGED CREDIT CARD SYNDICATE SHATTERED
*****
GLOBAL CO-OPERATION AMONG LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES HAS LED TO THE SHATTERING OF AN ALLEGED HONG KONG-BASED CREDIT CARD COUNTERFEITING SYNDICATE IN A SERIES OF RAIDS MOUNTED SIMULTANEOUSLY IN HONG KONG, THE UNITED STATES, THAILAND AND MACAU SINCE TUESDAY (FEBRUARY 2 LOCAL TIME) EVENING.
POLICE OFFICERS HAVE SO FAR ARRESTED MORE THAN 20 SUSPECTS IN THE WORLDWIDE HUNT AND SEIZED OVER 600 FORGED CREDIT CARDS WHICH COULD RESULT IN A POTENTIAL LOSS OF AT LEAST U.S.$6 MILLION.
POLI Cl- INVESTIGATIONS HAVE REVEALED THAT THE ALLEGED SYNDICATE, WHICH WAS KNOWN TO HAVE ITS MAIN OPERATION AREAS IN EUROPEAN COUNTRIES BETWEEN 1990 AND 1992, HAS MOVED TO THE U.S. SINCE MID-1992.
GIVEN THE SPRAWLING OPERATING AREAS OF THE ALLEGED SYNICATE, THE COMMERCIAL (’RIME BUREAU (CCB) OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE HAD CALLED FOR AN INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE BETWEEN JANUARY 28 AND 29.
THE CONFERENCE WAS PARTICIPATED BY POLICE OFFICERS FROM ALL AFFECTED COUNTRIES INCLUDING THAILAND, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, GERMANY, HOLLAND AS WELI AS THE U.S. SECRET SERVICE. INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION (ICAC) REPRESENTATIVES ALSO ATTENDED THE CONFERENCE.
THE WORLDWIDE CONCERTED EFFORTS AGAINST THE ALLEGED SYNDICATE ORIGINATED FROM A CCB INVESTIGATION SINCE MAY 1992.
CCB INVESTIGATIONS REVEALED THAT I’HE ALLEGED SYNDICATE WAS EXTREMELY ACTIVE AND ACCOUNTED FOR A SIZABLE PORTION OF TOTAL WORLDWIDE LOSSES DUE TO THE USE OF COUNTERFEIT CREDIT CARDS.
BY NOVEMBER 1992, MOST OF THE ALLEGED SYNDICATE MEMBERS WERE IDENTIFIED BY CCB. TWO CCB AND TWO ICAC OFFICERS WERE THEN DISPATCHED TO LOS ANGELES TO ASSIST IN THE US OPERATION.
FLORIDA POLICE ARRESTED THE ALLEGED SYNDICATE HEAD, A CHINESE MAN IN HIS 30’S, IN A SHOPPING MALL TN FLORIDA ON JANUARY 29 AND A SEARCH OF THEIR HIRED CAR UNCOVERED 60 CREDIT CARDS ACCOUNTS INFORMATION. THESE ACCOUNTS WERE FOUND TO HAVE LOST U.S.$416,000 IN FRADULENT TRANSACT IONS IN THE EAST COAST IN THE PRECEDING NINE DAYS.
CLUES LEI) TO FURTHER SEARCHES OF THREE HOTEL ROOMS AND ONE HOTEL SAFE DEPOSIT BOX IN FLORIDA. OVER 250 COUNTERFEIT CARDS, 15 FORGED PASSPORTS AND A NUMBER OF FALSE US DRIVING LICENCES AS WELL AS A QUANTITY OF ACCOUNT INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTS WERE SEIZED.
CO-ORDINATED, WORLDWIDE RAIDS AGAINST THE SYNDICATE WERE THEN FIXED FOR TUESDAY DURING WHICH FURTHER ARRESTS WERE MADE IN LOS ANGELES AND A LARGE QUANTITY OF MERCHANDISE PLUS U.S.$20,000 IN CASH WERE SEIZED.
IN HONG KONG, CCB OFFICERS RAIDED 63 LOCATIONS WHILE ICAC OFFICERS ALSO STORMED ANOTHER THREE ADDRESSES. ABOUT 10 SUSPECTS WERE ARRESTED SUBSEQUENTLY, INCLUDING TWO WANTED PERSONS.
/DURING THE .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
30 -
DURING THE HONG KONG OPERATION, P()LI( E .SEIZED 50 TELEPHONE CARDS, ONE OE WHICH HAD BEEN ENCODED WITH CREDIT CARD DETAILS AND LOCATED TWO UNDERGROUND BANKS.
WHILE THE THAI POLICE REPORTED NO CONCRETE RESULTS SO FAR, MACAU POLICE HAD REPORTED TWO SUCCESSFUL RAIDS IN WHICH 200 BASE CARDS AND MATERIAL FOR MAKING HOLOGRAMS WERE SI- I . ED. IWO PERSONS WERE ARRESTED AS A RESULT.
INVESTIGATIONS BY POLICE IN ALL NATIONS CONCERNED ARE STILL CONTINUING.
-----0-------
MINIMUM GOVT INTERFERENCE IN BUSINESS
*****
THE GOVERNMENT’S BASIC APPROACH TO BUSINESS, ONE OF MINIMUM INTERFERENCE AND MAXIMUM SUPPORT, HAS SERVED HONG KONG WELL, THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF INDUSTRY, MR T H BARMA, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AT A LUNCH MEETING OF THE BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, MR BARMA SAID:
"IT HAS GENERALLY PROVIDED ,\ VERY FAVOURABLE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH BUSINESS CAN PROSPER; IT HAS ENSURED THAT OUR INFRASTRUCTURE AND HUMAN RESOURCES ARE NOT LAGGING BEHIND OPPORTUNITIES; AND IT HAS PREVENTED AMBITIOUS AND ZEALOUS BUREAUCRATS FROM MEDDLING IN ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES INSTEAD OF LETTING THEM BE BUSINESS DRIVEN."
MR BARMA SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICIES BASED ON THIS APPROACH WERE EFFECTIVE.
’’HONG KONG WORKS. THE FACTS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES."
HE SAID HONG KONG WAS UNDISPUTEDLY A LEADING MANUFACTURING, FINANCIAL AND TRADING CENTRE FOR GOODS AND SERVICES OF THE WORLD.
’’WE ENJOY A VERY SATISFACTORY ECONOMIC GROWTH RATE AND HAVE ONE OF THE HIGHEST PER CAPITA GDP IN ASIA.
’’WE ARE THE 10TH LARGEST TRADING ENTITY IN THE WORLD.
’’ABOUT 500 FOREIGN BANKS FROM OVER 40 COUNTRIES ARE REPRESENTED HERE. AND WE ALSO HAVE NEARLY 1,300 REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS AND REGIONAL OFFICES.
’’HONG KONG IS THE LEADING DESTINATION OF U.S. AND JAPANESE INVESTMENTS IN THIS PART OF THE WORLD.
’’WITH NEARLY U.S.$30 BILLION TN FOREIGN CURRENCY RESERVES, WE ARE THE 12TH HIGHEST IN THE WORLD AND THE SECOND HIGHEST ON A PER CAPITA BASIS," HE SAID.
MR BARMA SAID THESE POLICIES WERE NOT STATIC.
/•'ON THE ...........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 31 -
"ON THE CONTRARY, THEY ARE CONSTANTLY UNDER REVIEW SO THAT CONSTRAINTS TO GROWTH CAN BE IDENTIFIED AND REMOVED IN ORDER TO ENSURE THAT HONG KONG’S ECONOMY GENERALLY REMAINS HEALTHY, PRODUCTIVE AND COMPETITIVE," HE SAID.
MR BARMA HIGHLIGHTED TWO SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS IN HIS SPECIFIC AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY.
"FIRST, THE INDUSTRY AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, THE GOVERNMENT’S PRINCIPLE ADVISORY BODY ON INDUSTRIAL AND TECHNOLOGY MATTERS, WILL BE HAVING ITS FIRST NON-OFFICIAL CHAIRMAN.
"THIS IS FURTHER EVIDENCE THAT THE GOVERNMENT VALUES AND IS BRINGING IN THE EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN THE FORMULATION OF ITS POLICIES ON INDUSTRIAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT.
"SECONDLY A GOVERNMENT-FUNDED APPLIED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT SCHEME WILL BE LAUNCHED SHORTLY TO ENCOURAGE APPLIED R AND D IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR," HE SAID.
-----------0-------- POLITICAL ROW WILL SETTLE * * * * *
THE SINO-BRIT1SH ROW OVER THE GOVERNOR’S POLITICAL REFORM PROPOSALS WILL EVENTUALLY BE RESOLVED, THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MF? PAUL WONG, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE’S SPRING RECEPTION, MR WONG ALLAYED FEARS OF SOME RESIDENTS I’HAT THE DISPUTE MIGHT HAMPER THE TERRITORY’S STABILITY AND PROSPERITY.
HE SAID: "HONG KONG IS FAMOUS FOR ITS ABILITY TO TACKLE PROBLEMS AND WE HAVE OVERCOME ALL KINDS OF CRISIS.
"PARTICULARLY NOW THAT WE HAVE AN EVEN MORE MATURE SOCIETY AND A SOUNDER SYSTEM THAN IN THE PAST."
MR WONG GAVE HIS ASSURANCE THAT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WOULD COME UP WITH A DECISION WHICH WOULD BE WELCOMED BY THE MAJORITY OF THE COMMUNITY.
"AND IT WILL BE A PACKAGE ACCEPTABLE TO BOTH THE PRESENT ADMINISTRATION AND THE FUTURE SAR GOVERNMENT," HE ADDED.
LATER, MR WONG ALSO OFFICIATED AT A SPRING RECEPTION HOSTED BY
THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE.
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/32 ......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 32
YOUTH URGED TO TALK ABOUT AIDS FRANKLY *****
THE BEST PREVENTION AGAINST AIDS IS FOR EVERYONE TO DISCUSS THE DISEASE OPENLY AND FRANKLY INSTEAD OF SHUNNING THE ISSUE.
THE APPEAL WAS MADE TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY MS CARLYE TSUI, URBAN COUNCILLOR AND MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY ON AIDS (CEPAIDS) AT THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY OF THE AIDS ROVING EXHIBITION FOR TERTIARY STUDENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG.
MS TSUI SAID SHE HOPED THAT YOUNG PEOPLE AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC COULD PAY GREATER ATTENTION TO THE PROBLEM OF AIDS WITH AN OPEN AND CARING ATTITUDE.
’’THE COMMUNITY CAN BE MORE ALERT ABOUT THE THREAT OF AIDS IF WE CAN ALL ADDRESS THE AIDS PROBLEM WITH AN OPEN MIND. AND THIS IS THE BEST WAY TO HALT THE SPREAD OF THE DISEASE,” SHE SAID.
MS TSUI SAID CEPAIDS’ PUBLICITY STRATEGY FOR THIS YEAR WOULD BE TO ENCOURAGE I’HE PUBLIC TO DISCUSS MORE ABOUT AIDS AS THE PROBLEM REALLY CONCERNED EVERYBODY.
NOTING THAT HETEROSEXUAL RELATIONS WERE THE PREVALENT MODE OF TRANSMITTING AIDS IN HONG KONG, MS TSUI URGED YOUNG PEOPLE TO BE AWARE OF THE THREAT OF AIDS AND TO TAKE PROPER MEASURES TO PROTECT THEMSELVES.
MS TSUI SAID: ”IT IS OUR HOPE THAT THE YOUNGER GENERATION WILL HAVE A MORE THOROUGH UNDERSTANDING OF THE DISEASE. FOR THIS REASON, WE ARE ORGANISING THE ROVING EXHIBITION TO BE MOUNTED IN EIGHT TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS WITHIN THIS ACADEMIC YEAR.”
OTHER THAN THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, THE EXHIBITION WILL BE STAGED AT LINGNAN COLLEGE, THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, CITY POLYTECHNIC, SHUE YAN COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, THE HONG KONG BAPTIST COLLEGE AND HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS AT THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY INCLUDED THE VICE-CHANCELLOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, PROFESSOR WANG GUNGWU AND DIRECTOR OF THE UNIVERSITY’S HEALTH SERVICE, DR IAN MARSHALL.
------0-------
GOVT LAND TO LET BY TENDER * * * *
THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPATMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE SHORT-TERM TENANCY OF A PIECE OF GOVERNMENT LAND IN KOWLOON.
THE LOT IS LOCATED IN LOK WAH STREET, KWUN TONG. IT HAS AN AREA OF ABOUT 1,560 SQUARE METRES AND IS INTENDED FOR USE AS A FEE-PAYING PUBLIC CAR PARKING AREA FOR MOTOR VEHICLES (EXCLUDING CONTAINER VEHICLES WITH THEIR TRAILERS/CHASSIS ATTACHED).
THE TENANCY IS FOR ONE YEAR, RENEWABLE QUARTERLY.
/CLOSING DATE .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 33
CLOSING DATE FOR SUBMISSION OF TENDERS IS NOON ON FEBRUARY 19.
TENDER FORM, TENDER NOTICE AND CONDITIONS AS WELL AS THE TENDER PLAN ARE AVAILABLE AT THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, KOWLOON EAST, 10TH FLOOR, YAU MA TEI CAR PARK BUILDING, 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON AND THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG.
------0-------
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY * ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY 3) UP TO 4.30 PM:
1. STUDYING NOTES OF MEETING BETWEEN THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY ON JANUARY 21;
2. STUDYING MTR OPERATIONAL ORDERS FOR THE LUNAR NEW YEAR PERIOD;
3. FINALISING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED FOR
TOMORROW, COMMENCING 10.00 AM AT COURT NO. 10, SUPREME COURT;
4. CORRESPONDENCE.
NOTICE OF HEARING IN OPEN SESSION \T COURT NO. 10, SUPREME COURT, 38 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG:
THURSDAY (FEBRUARY 4)
10 AM DR K K LAI, SENIOR EXECUTIVE MANAGER (PROFESSIONAL SERVICES), HOSPITAL AUTHORITY
MR K Y TSANG, CHIEF FIRE OFFICER (HEADQUARTERS) AND MR C C CHEUNG, CHIEF AMBULANCE OFF I ('ER, FI RI- SERVICES DEPARTMENT
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/34.........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1993
- 34 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
* * * * * $ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,500
REVERSAL OF LAF NIL
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 1,500
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY NIL
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,500
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 115.00 *+0.0* 3.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PR ICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.20 PCT 12 MONTHS 2402 5.50 101.48’ 4.07
1 MONTH 3.33 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 101.48 4.35
3 MONTHS 3.20 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 4.375 99.63 4.68
6 MONTHS 3.44 PCT 21 MONTHS 2411 4.625 99.63 4.90
12 MONTHS 4.09 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 19,093 MN
CLOSED 3 FEBRUARY 1993
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
GOVERNOR'S CONDITION IS GOOD .................................... 1
WSD SAFEGUARDS AGAINST CHLORINE LEAKAGE ......................... 1
SRC MEETS RTHK REPRESENTATIVES OVER CORPORATISATION ............. 2
PROVISIONAL GOVERNING COUNCIL FOR NEW INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION 3
DO CALLS FOR VIEWS ON REFORM PACKAGE ............................ 5
TERTIARY STUDENTS URGED TO GIVE VIEWS ON REFORMS ................ 6
PROVISIONAL RESULTS OF RETAIL SALES SURVEY FOR NOVEMBER 1992 RELEASED ....................................................... 6
SHIPPING AND CARGO STATISTICS OF OCEAN-GOING VESSELS FOR THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 .......................................... 9
EXPEDITIOUS TEXTILE EXPORT LICENSING SERVICE ................... 11
136,000 STUDENTS TAKE PART IN CAREERS QUIZ ..................... 12
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY .......................................... 13
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
14
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY I, 1993
GOVERNOR’S CONDITION IS GOOD
* * ♦ ♦ t
THE GOVERNMENT HOUSE SPOKESMAN, MR MIKE HANSON, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THE GOVERNOR, Till- R.T HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, HAS SPENT A COMFORTABLE NIGHT AT THE QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL AND THAT HIS CONDITION HAS BEEN DESCRIBED AS GOOD 1'0 Illi MEDICAL TEAM.
MR PATTEN SLEPT WELL LAST NIGH! AND IS E A I I NG A NORMAL DIET. HE WILL REMAIN IN HOSPITAL FOR TODAY AND IS LIKELY TO RETURN HOME TOMORROW TO CONTINUE HIS CONVALESCENCE.
------o-------
WSD SAFEGUARDS AGAINST CHLORINE LEAKAGE
* ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
AN INTERIM REPORT ON THE CHLORINE LEAKAGE INCIDENT THAT OCCURRED AT THE SHEUNG SHUT TREATMENT WORKS ON JANUARY 25 REVEALED THAT THE INCIDENT WAS ONLY A MINOR ONE WHICH DID NOT AFFECT THE NEARBY RESIDENTS AND THE OPERATION OF THE PLANT, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
INVESTIGATION BY THE DEPARTMENT SHOWED THAT THE INCIDENT WAS CAUSED BY A MINOR DEFECT IN THE CONNECTION POINT BETWEEN THE FEEDING PIPE AND THE CHLORINE STORAGE DRUM, LEADING TO THE LEAKAGE OF ABOUT TWO KILOGRAMS OF CHLORINE.
’’HOWEVER, ALL THE LEAKED GAS WAS CONFINED TO THE CHLORINE ROOM,” THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED.
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE SHEUNG SHUI TREATMENT WORKS WAS MANNED BY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ROUND-THE-CLOCK.
HE SAID THE CHLORINE LEAK DETECTION AND ALARM SYSTEM INSTALLED AT THE PLANT WAS AUTOMATICALLY TRIGGERED WHEN THE LEAKAGE HAPPENED.
’’EQUIPPED WITH OXYGEN BREATHING MASKS AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING, STAFF ON DUTY IMMEDIATELY CLOSED THE VALVE OF THE CHLORINE STORAGE DRUM TO PREVENT MORE CHLORINE FROM LEAKING OUT.
”OUR STAFF’S ADEQUATE PREPARATION AND EXPERIENCE IN HANDLING CHLORINE LEAKAGE WAS DEMONSTRATED IN THIS PROMPT ACTION,” HE NOTED.
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT HAD ADOPTED RECOMMENDATIONS BY A CONSULTANT’S ENGAGED TO REVIEW THE METHOD AND SAFETY MEASURES OF CHLORINE STORAGE AT THE SHEUNG SHUI TREATMENT WORKS.
THESE INCLUDED STEPPING UP PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES AT THE CHLORINE STORAGE AREA AT THE PLANT AND INTRODUCING A SET OF STRINGENT INTERNAL GUIDELINES ON THE DAILY OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THE TREATMENT WORKS.
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT STAFF RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OPERATION OF THE CHLORINE SYSTEM HAD ALSO UNDERGONE VIGOROUS TRAINING.
/"THEREFORE, OUR ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
2
"THEREFORE, OUR STAFF WERE ABLE TO PUT THE INCIDENT UNDER CONTROL EFFICIENTLY TO PREVENT THE NEARBY RESIDENTS FROM BEING AFFECTED," HE NOTED.
HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT A CHLORINE ABSORPTION TOWER SYSTEM WAS BEING INSTALLED AT THE PLANT TO FURTHER ENSURE THE SAFETY OF THE NEARBY RESIDENTS AND WORKS WERE EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED BY THE END OF THIS YEAR.
ITS FUNCTION IS TO ABSORB LEAKED CHLORINE AND TO NEUTRALISE IT WITH SODIUM HYDROXIDE WITHIN THE ABSORPTION TOWER UNTIL THE CHLORINE CONTENT IN THE AMBIENT AIR DROPS TO SAFE LEVEL.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE DEPARTMENT WOULD STRENGTHEN THE SAFETY MEASURES AND THE MAINTENANCE OF THE PLANT, AND WOULD REDUCE THE CHLORINE STORAGE TO LESS THAN HALF OF THE CHLORINE ROOM STORAGE CAPACITY BEFORE INSTALLATION OF THE SYSTEM WAS COMPLETED.
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT HAS ALSO ENGAGED A CONSULTANT TO CARRY OUT A HAZARD ASSESSMENT OF SEVEN OTHER TREATMENT WORKS.
INSTALLATION OF CHLORINE ABSORPTION TOWERS IN THOSE TREATMENT WORKS IS IN PROGRESS FOR COMPLETION BY THE END OF THIS YEAR, WHILE OTHER SAFETY MEASURES HAD BEEN STRENGTHENED.
-----0------
SRC MEETS RTHK REPRESENTATIVES OVER CORPORATISATION
♦ * * * *
THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, TODAY (THURSDAY) MET FIVE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE RTHK PROGRAMME STAFF UNION TO EXCHANGE VIEWS ON THE ISSUE OF CORPORATISATION OF THE STATION.
THE TALKS WERE CONDUCTED IN A FRIENDLY, FRANK AND CONSTRUCTIVE MANNER AND THERE WAS A USEFUL EXCHANGE OF VIEWS, MR SO SAID.
AT THE MEETING, MR SO EXPLAINED TO THE RTHK REPRESENTATIVES THAT THE CURRENT POLITICAL SITUATION DID COMPLICATE THE ISSUE AND NOW WAS NOT THE MOST OPPORTUNE TIME TO TAKE THE ISSUE FURTHER.
HOWEVER, HE STRESSED THAT THE ADMINISTRATION BELIEVED THAT CORPORATISATION WAS STILL THE BEST OPTION FOR RTHK.
MR SO CONFIRMED THAT THE MATTER WAS STILL UNDER CONSIDERATION, BUT THE ADMINISTRATION WAS NOT YET IN A POSITION TO MAKE A FINAL DECISION.
DURING THE MEETING, MR SO ALSO NOTED THE CONCERN OF THE REPRESENTATIVES THAT RTHK HAD NOT BEEN RECRUITING DEPARTMENTAL STAFF FOR THE PAST YEAR IN ANTICIPATION OF CORPORATISATION.
IN THIS RESPECT, MR SO SAJI) A REVIEW ON THIS ISSUE WOULD BE CARRIED OUT AND HE WAS ALSO PREPARED TO CONSIDER CONVERTING SOME OF THE DEPARTMENTAL CONTRACT STAFF INTO DEPARTMENTAL GRADE WITHIN THIS CALENDAR YEAR.
/ANOTHER TOPIC .......
3
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
ANOTHER TOPIC DISCUSSED WAS RENEWAL OF STAFF CONTRACTS.
MR SO SAID HE WAS HAPPY TO REPORT THAT THE ADMINISTRATION WAS NOW PREPARED TO RENEW STAFF CONTRACTS FOR THE NORMAL PERIOD AND ON NORMAL TERMS, SUBJECT TO THE USUAL CIVIL SERVICE PROCEDURES, WHEN THEY COME UP FOR CONSIDERATION.
--------0 -
PROVISIONAL GOVERNING COUNCIL FOR NEU
INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY) THE APPOINTMENT OF A PROVISIONAL GOVERNING COUNCIL (PGC) TO PREPARE FOR 'THE FORMA! ESTABLISHMENT OF A NEW UNITARY INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION (Hl\ IE) AS \N AUTONOMOUS INSTITUTION UNDER ITS OWN ORDINANCE.
'THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THF I NS I I II IF WAS PF(oMMFNDFD BY THE EDUCATION COMMISSION IN ITS REPOR’I NO. .
THE INSTITUTE WILL COMPRISE THRF I COLLEGES OF EDUCATION, THE HONG KONG TECHNICAL 'TEACHERS’ COLLEGE, AND THE INSTITUTE OF LANGUAGE IN EDUCATION CILF) WHICH ARE Cl RRI N'l’IA RUN BY THF EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE PGC IS:
CHAIRMAN: SIMON IP, JJ-
MEMBERS: MR JAMES TIEN PFI-CHUN, ORE, JP DR ISE KA-KI 1 DR JAMES WONG SAI-WING, Ip DR THOMAS LEUNG KWOK-F\1 PROFESSOR 1 Fl NGOK DR JOHN ( LARK MRS JANE WONG LEE CHEE-VAN MR GREGORY LAM SHI -WING
OFFICIALS: SECRETARY FOR EDUC AT 1 ON AND MANPOWER, OR HIS REPRESENT\TIVF SECRETARY FOR THE ( l\IL SERVICE, OR HIS REPRESEN T \T1\F DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, OR HIS REPRESENTATIVE
/SECRETARY .......
4
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
SECRETARY: A PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRI-TARY FOR EDUCATION
AND MAN POKER
THE TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE PGU ARE:
* TO PREPARE FOR FORMAL ESTABLISHMENT OF THE INSTITUTE AS AN INDEPENDENT INSTITUTION UNDER ITS OWN ORDINANCE;
♦ TO ARRANGE FOR SEPARATION OF Till COLLEGES AND I LE FROM THE CIVIL SERVICE;
* TO PROPOSE AN ADM IM STRAT IVE STRUCTURE FOR THE INSTITUTE;
♦ TO PROPOSE A STAFF STRUCTURE, SALARY SCALES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE FOR. THE STAFF OF THE INSTITUTE;
* TO PREPARE DRAFT DRAFTING I NSTRI (TIONS FOR THE INSTITUTE’S ORDINANCE;
♦ TO DRAW Up, WITH THE HELP OF OUTSIDE EXPERT ADVICE AS NECESSARY, A STRATEGY FOR UPGRADING THE COLLEGES/ILE;
* TO PREPARE A FORECAST OF THE INSTITUTE’S RESOURCE NEEDS DURING THE UPGRADING PHASE;
* TO REPORT TO Till* GOVERNMENT AS OFTEN AS MAY BE REQUIRED; AND
* TO CARRY OUT ANY EXECUTIVE Fl NOTIONS XS DIRECTED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
MR (HAN SAID THE MAIN PURPOSE OF SETTING Up Illi INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION WAS TO GIVE ADMINISTRATIVE AND A(\DFM|C AUTONOMY TO THE COLLEGES AND THE I LE IN THE SAME W\\ \S XLL rill- OTHER POST-SECONDARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN HONG RONG.
’’NORMS COMPARABLE TO I N TERN AT I ON \ L STANDARDS WILL BE DRAWN UP FOR THE INSTITUTE TO PROVIDE SUB-DEGREE \NI» SOME DEGREE COURSES WHICH WILL BE SUBJECT TO EXTERNAL ASSESSMENT," HF SAID.
’’THE CAMPUS WILL BE REORGANISED AND MODERNISED TO PROVIDE THE BEST POSSIBLE FACILITIES FOR TEACHER TRAINING.
"THE INSTITUTE WILI THEN UPGRADE TUT II\Fl ol TRXINING PROVIDED FOR TEA< HERS . ’’
MR CHAN ADDED THAT QUALIFIED EXISTING STAFF WOULD BE GIVEN THE OPTION, DURING A TRANSITIONS PERIOD, To REMAIN IN THE CIVIL SERVICE OR TO SERVE THE INSTITUTE UNDER NEW NON-C I VIL SERVICE CONDITIONS OF SERVICE.
'THESE (GANGES CAN BE ACHIEVED MORE EFFFJ LIVELY IF THE INSTITUTE HAS THE ADDED FLEXIBILITY OF AN AUTONOMOUS ORGANISATION, HF SAID.
MR SIMON IP, COMMENTING ON HIS APPOINTMENT, SAID HE WAS HONOURED TO BE APPOINTED ('HAIRMAN OF Till- PG( AND THAT HIS OBJECTIVE WAS TO COMPLETE THE SETTING UP OF THE INSTITUTE BY OCTOBER 1994.
/BY THAT .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
5
BY THAT TIME HE EXPECTED A NEW DIRECTOR AND SENIOR STAFF TO HAVE BEEN APPOINTED AND TO BE READY TO TAKE OVER FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR TEACHER TRAINING INDER A NEW ORDINANCE.
’’THIS IS A VERY CHALLENGING ASSIGNMENT,” NR IP SAID, "BUT I HAVE A FIRST-CLASS TEAM OF EXPERTS WORKING WITH ME AND I AM CONFIDENT THAT WE ('AN FINISH THE WORK BY THE AUTUMN OF NEXT YEAR.”
’’THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THIS PROJECT IS THE UPGRADING OF THE COLLEGES SO THAT THEY CAN PROVIDE BETTER TRAINING FOR TEACHERS.
”1 SEE THIS AS AN IMPORTANT ELEMENT IN THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE EDUCATION SYSTEM TO MEET HIE CHALLENGES OF THE 2 1 S’l CENTURY.
"OUR CHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE AND THEY DESERVE AN IMPROVED SCHOOL SYSTEM. THE PGC WILL PLAY ITS PART IN PROVIDING IT," HE ADDED.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
ANY QUERIES ABOUT THIS PRESS RELEASE SHOULD BE REFERRED TO THE SECRETARY OF THE PGC, MR PHILIP MAC-KLEY ON TEL 537 2347 OR BY FAX 868 5916
-----0-------
DO CALLS FOR VIEWS ON REFORM PACKAGE
*****
THE PUBLIC SHOULD COME UP WITH BROADER VIEWS ON THE GOVERNOR’S CONS1TUTTONAL PROPOSALS, KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT OFFICER, MR WILLIAM YAP, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE’S SPRING RECEPTION, MR YAP SAID THE ASPIRATIONS OF THE COMMUNITY WOULD BE MORE CLEARLY KNOWN IF VIEWS WERE MORE ACTIVELY EXPRESSED.
"THIS WILL ENABLE THE FORMULATION OF A CONSTITUTIONAL PACKAGE WHICH WILL BE FAIR, OPEN AND ACCEPTABLE TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG," HE SAID.
MEANWHILE, TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR RAYMOND YOUNG; AND TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR PETER LEUNG, ALSO URGED LOCAL COMMUNITIES TO EXPRESS VIEWS ON THE GOVERNOR’S REFORM PACKAGE AT THEIR RESPECTIVE DISTRICT OFFICE’S SPRING RECEPTIONS.
MR YOUNG SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS HAPPY THAT MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WERE ENGAGED IN VIGOROUS DISCUSSIONS ON THE REFORMS.
HE ALSO SAID THE PROPOSAL TO ENHANCE THE DISTRICT BOARDS’ ROLE IN DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION WAS IN LINE WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF A REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT.
------0-------
/6 ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
6
TERTIARY STUDENTS URGED TO GIVE VIEWS ON REFORMS
*****
EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR STEVE BARCLAY, TODAY (THURSDAY) CALLED ON TERTIARY STUDENTS TO GIVE THEIR VIEWS ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLITICAL REFORM PACKAGE.
"IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WELL-EDUCATED YOUNG PEOPLE, WHO ARE DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY THE CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM EXERCISE, TO MAKE THEIR VIEWS KNOWN," HE SAID.
SPEAKING AT THE 10TH INAUGURATION CEREMONY OF THE SHUE YAN COLLEGE STUDENTS' UNION, MR BARCLAY SAID THERE HAD BEEN WIDE-RANGING DISCUSSIONS OVER THE CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG.
THE GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSALS, HE ADDED, WOULD SHORTLY BE DISCUSSED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND HE EXPECTED THAT IT WOULD TAKE SEVERAL MONTHS BEFORE AN AGREEMENT WAS REACHED.
"IN THE MEANTIME, BOTH THE GOVERNMENT AND THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL HOPE THAT THE COMMUNITY WILL EXPRESS ITS VIEWS TO ENSURE THAT THE FINAL PACKAGE REFLECTS ACCURATELY THE VIEWS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG. "
- 0 -
PROVISIONAL RESULTS OF RETAIL SALES SURVEY FOR NOVEMBER 1992 RELEASED *****
THE VALUE OF TOTAL RETAIL SALES IN NOVEMBER 1992, ESTIMATED AT $13.3 BILLION, INCREASED BY 14% WHEN COMPARED WITH THE SAME MONTH IN 1991, ACCORDING TO THE STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE INCREASE IN RETAIL SALES REFLECTED A CONTINUED GROWTH IN SPENDING BY BOTH LOCAL CONSUMERS AND TOURISTS.
AFTER DISCOUNTING THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES OVER THE PERIOD, TOTAL RETAIL SALES INCREASED BY 9% IN VOLUME TERMS.
STRONG GROWTH WAS SEEN IN THE SPENDING ON MOTOR VEHICLES, CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR, FUELS AND JEWELLERY.
SALES OF MOTOR VEHICLES REGISTERED THE LARGEST YEAR-ON-YEAR INCREASE IN NOVEMBER, BY 26% IN VALUE AND 19% IN VOLUME.
SALES OF CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR AND ALLIED PRODUCTS WENT UP MARKEDLY BY 24% IN VALUE AND 13% IN VOLUME. THE STRONG GROWTH WAS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE SALE CAMPAIGNS LAUNCHED BY SOME MAJOR OUTLETS IN RECENT MONTHS.
SALES OF FUELS ALSO INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY, BY 17% IN VALUE AND 10% IN VOLUME.
/SALES OF
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
7
SALES OF JEWELLERY, WATCHES, CLOCKS AND VALUABLE GIFTS ROSE BY 15% IN VALUE AND 19% IN VOLUME. THE LARGER INCREASE IN VOLUME WAS A RESULT OF THE FALL IN THE PRICES OF JEWELLERY ITEMS.
SALES IN BOTH DEPARTMENT STORES AND SUPERMARKETS REGISTERED A 7% INCREASE IN VALUE BUT A 1% DECREASE IN VOLUME, WHILE SALES OF OTHER FOODSTUFFS RECORDED A 2% INCREASE IN VALUE AND A 1% DECREASE IN VOLUME.
COMPARING THE PERIOD FROM JANUARY TO NOVEMBER 1992 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1991, TOTAL RETAIL SALES ROSE BY 18% IN VALUE AND 12% IN VOLUME.
COMPARING WITH OCTOBER 1992, AND BEARING IN MIND THAT THIS COMPARISON MAY BE AFFECTED BY SEASONAL FACTORS, TOTAL RETAIL SALES IN NOVEMBER 1992 DECREASED BY 1% IN VALUE AND 2% IN VOLUME.
CHANGES IN THE VOLUME OF RETAIL SALES ARE DERIVED FROM FIGURES ON THE VALUE OF RETAIL SALES AFTER HAVING ADJUSTED FOR PRICE CHANGES. THE RELEVANT COMPONENTS OF THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX ARE USED AS INDICATORS OF PRICE CHANGES.
THE REPORT CONTAINING THE ANALYSIS OF THE NOVEMBER 1992 RESULTS IS NOW ON SALE AT $1.5 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL; AND THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, WAN CHAI.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL NO.: 802 1258).
/TABLE 1 .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
8
TABLE 1 : TOTAL RETAIL SALES
Total Retail Sales for November 1992 (Provisional Figure) = HKV3,323.2 million
for October 1992 (Revised Figure) « HKS'3,489.3 million
TABLE 2 : VALUE ANO VOLUME INDEXES OF RETAJI SALES FCR OCTOBER 1992 AND NOVEMBER !$22
(Monthly average of Oct. 89 • Sept. 90 ■ 100)
Item Index of Retail ,Sales October 1992 November 1992 November 1992 compared wi th November 1992 compared with November 1991 Jan-Nov compared Jan-Nov 1992 with 1991
October 1992
(Revised figures) (Provisional figures) Points X Points X Points X
(A) FOR ALL RETAIL OUTLETS ♦ 18.1
Value 143.6 141.9 -1.8 -1.2 ♦ 17.7 ♦ 14.2 ♦21.3
(B) BY TYPE OF RETAIL OUTLET Volume 124.8 121.9 •2.9 -2.3 ♦ 10.3 ♦9.2 ♦13.3 ♦ 12.2
Foodstuffs, alcoholic Value 121.2 125.3 ♦4.1 ♦3.3 ♦2.7 ♦2.2 ♦4.5 ♦3.9
drinks and tobacco Volume 101.5 107.3 ♦5.8 ♦5.7 -1.1 -1.0 •2.9 -2.8
(other than supermarkets)
Supermarkets Value 124.5 117.5 -7.0 -5.6 ♦7.7 ♦7.0 ♦11.5 ♦10.0
Volume 100.2 93.3 -6.3 -6.3 -0.7 •0.7 ♦1.7 ♦ 1.7
Fuels Value 162.4 139.2 -23.1 14.3 ♦20.3 ♦ 17.1 ♦14.1 ♦ 11.5
Volume 124.7 105.2 -19.6 15.7 ♦9.1 ♦9.5 ♦4.3 ♦4.2
Clothing, footwear and Value 159.9 163.3 ♦8.9 ♦5.6 ♦32.7 ♦24.1 ♦30.3 ♦25.1
allied products Volume 130.5 131.2 ♦0.6 ♦0.5 ♦ 15.5 ♦ 13.4 ♦ 15.4 ♦13.8
Consumer durable goods * Value 162.4 156.3 -5.6 -3.5 ♦24.1 ♦ 18.2 ♦37.5 ♦30.1
Volume 145.6 138.9 -6.7 -4.6 ♦ 16.3 ♦ 13.8 ♦29.2 ♦25.1
- Motor vehicles Value 182.3 194.2 ♦11.4 ♦6.2 ♦39.3 ♦ 25.7 ♦66.3 ♦53.4
and parts Volume 152.9 161.0 ♦8.2 ♦5.3 ♦25.2 ♦ 18.6 ♦50.2 ♦44.8
- Consumer durable Value 147.7 129.7 -17.9 -12.1 ♦ 12.8 ♦11.0 ♦ 16.2 ♦13.1
goods other than Volume 140.4 122.8 _-17.5 -12.5 ♦ 10.8 ’ +9.6 ♦ 14.0 ♦11.71
motor vehicles and parts
Department stores Value 129.9 133.8 ♦3.9 ♦3.0 ♦9.1 ♦7.3 ♦16.6 ♦14.9
Volume 107.5 106.7 -0.7 -0.7 -0.9 -0.8 ♦5.8 ♦5.6
Jewellery, watches Value 135.7 129.5 -6.2 •4.6 ♦17.1 ♦ 15.2 ♦20.7 ♦18.0
and clocks, and valuable gifts Volume 140.5 136.2 •4.3 -3.1 ♦21.6 ♦ 18.9 ♦25.6 ♦22.5
Other consumer gcods Value 157.7 157.4 •0.3 •0.2 ♦27.3 ♦21.0 ♦23.5 ♦19.2
not elsewhere Volume 134.2 133.5 -0.7 -0.5 ♦ 16.3 ♦ 13.9 ♦11.8 ♦ 10.3
classified
NOTE : * This covers both "Motor vehicles and parts" and "Consumer durable gcods other than motor vehicles and parts".
- -■ - - 0 -----------
/?.........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
SHIPPING AND CARGO STATISTICS OF OCEAN-GOING VESSELS FOR THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 » * * * »
IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992, 6,868 SHIPS WITH A TOTAL CAPACITY OF 34.5 MILLION NET REGISTERED TONS (NRT) ARRIVED HONG KONG, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 1,349 (OR 24%) IN NUMBER AND OF 3.2 MILLION NRT (OR 10%) IN CAPACITY OVER THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1991.
THIS INFORMATION IS CONTAINED IN THE "HONG KONG SHIPPING STATISTICS REPORT, JULY - SEPTEMBER 1992" PUBLISHED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992, THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CARGO DISCHARGED IN HONG KONG FROM INCOMING SHIPS WAS 15.1 MILLION TONNES, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 1% OVER THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1991.
ANALYSING INCOMING SHIPS BY SHIP TYPE, MAJOR INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE NUMBER OF SEMI-CONTAINER VESSELS (+369), CONTAINER VESSELS (+344), CONVENTIONAL CARGO VESSELS (+77) AND DRY BULK CARRIERS (+60).
ANALYSING INCOMING SHIPS BY FLAG, MAJOR INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE NUMBER OF SHIPS REGISTERED IN CHINA (+390), PANAMA (+344), TAIWAN (+83) AND LIBERIA (+75).
THE NUMBER OF INCOMING SHIPS WITH A CAPACITY OF LESS THAN 10,000 DEADWEIGHT TONS INCREASED BY 1,009 WHILE THE NUMBER OF THOSE WITH A LARGER CAPACITY INCREASED BY 340.
IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992, THERE WERE 6,844 OUTGOING SHIPS WITH A TOTAL CAPACITY OF 34.4 MILLION NRT, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 1,313 (OR 24%) IN NUMBER AND OF 3.3 MILLION NRT (OR 11%) IN CAPACITY OVER THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1991.
THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CARGO LOADED ONTO OUTGOING SHIPS WAS 6.8 MILLION TONNES, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 6%.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, CHANGES IN THE NUMBER OF OUTGOING SHIPS BY SHIP TYPE, FLAG, AND CAPACITY WERE ABOUT THE SAME AS THOSE RECORDED FOR INCOMING SHIPS, AS ABOUT 70% OF THE DEPARTING SHIPS STAYED IN HONG KONG FOR LESS THAN TWO DAYS.
OF THE CARGO DISCHARGED FROM INCOMING SHIPS, 87% IN TERMS OF TONNAGE WERE SEABORNE IMPORTS AND 13% WERE SEABORNE TRANSHIPMENT CARGO. OF THE CARGO LOADED ONTO OUTGOING SHIPS, 68% WERE SEABORNE EXPORTS (INCLUDING DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS) AND 32% WERE SEABORNE TRANSHIPMENT CARGO.
THE MAJOR COUNTRIES OF LOADING FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS WERE JAPAN (WHICH ACCOUNTED FOR 14% IN TONNAGE TERMS), SINGAPORE (13%), THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA (12%), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (9%), TAIWAN (9%), CHINA (9%) AND THE USA (7%); WHILE THE MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DISCHARGE FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS WERE THE USA (WHICH ACCOUNTED FOR 25% IN TONNAGE TERMS), CHINA (16%), TAIWAN (11%), JAPAN (4%), THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY (4%), SINGAPORE (4%) AND THE UNITED KINGDOM (3%).
/SEABORNE TRANSHIPMENT .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
10 -
SEABORNE TRANSHIPMENT CARGO WAS MAINLY LOADED IN CHINA (32%), TAIWAN (13%) AND THE USA (11%), AND WAS MAINLY DISCHARGED IN CHINA (18%) AND THE USA (16%).
COMPARING THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 WITH THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1991, MAJOR INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE NOTED FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA (+83%), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+63%), THE NETHERLANDS (+60%) AND INDONESIA (+29%); WHILE MAJOR DECREASES IN TONNAGE WERE NOTED FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM AUSTRALIA (-50%), THE USA (-19%) AND CHINA (-19%). AS A WHOLE, THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF SEABORNE IMPORTS ROSE BY 1%.
AMONG THE PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES, MAJOR INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE RECORDED FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS OF MACHINERY (+59%), OTHER CHEMICALS AND RELATED PRODUCTS (+34%) AND IRON AND STEEL (+16%); WHILE MAJOR DECREASES IN TONNAGE WERE NOTED FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS OF COAL, COKE AND BRIQUETTES (-4%) AND PETROLEUM, PETROLEUM PRODUCTS AND RELATED MATERIALS (-2%).
COMPARING THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 WITH THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1991, THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF SEABORNE EXPORTS (DOMESTIC EXPORTS PLUS REEXPORTS) INCREASED BY 9%.
MAJOR INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE RECORDED FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS TO VIETNAM (+33%), THE NETHERLANDS (+32%), THE USA (+26%), AUSTRALIA (+16%) AND THE UNITED KINGDOM (+13%); WHILE MAJOR DECREASES WERE RECORDED FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS TO JAPAN (-10%), CHINA (-8%) AND SINGAPORE (-7%).
AMONG THE PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES, MAJOR INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE NOTED FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS OF PLASTIC MANUFACTURES (+66%), TOYS (+29%), MACHINERY (+28%) AND OTHER MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (+17%); WHILE A MAJOR DECREASE WAS NOTED FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS OF PETROLEUM, PETROLEUM PRODUCTS AND RELATED MATERIALS (-9%).
OF THE CARGO DISCHARGED FROM INCOMING SHIPS, INCLUDING SEABORNE IMPORTS AND SEABORNE INWARD TRANSHIPMENT, 42% IN TERMS OF TONNAGE WERE CONTAINERISED CARGO. OF THOSE LOADED ONTO OUTGOING SHIPS, INCLUDING SEABORNE EXPORTS AND SEABORNE OUTWARD TRANSHIPMENT, 83% WERE CONTAINERISED CARGO.
THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CONTAINERISED SEABORNE IMPORTS IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 ROSE BY 9% OVER THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1991.
IN TERMS OF TONNAGE, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR 35% OF SEABORNE IMPORTS. TN PARTICULAR, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR A LARGE PROPORTION OF SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY (87%), TAIWAN (82%), THE NETHERLANDS (77%) AND THE USA (77%).
AMONG THE PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR, IN TONNAGE TERMS, 99% OF SEABORNE IMPORTS OF ARTIFICIAL RESINS AND PLASTIC MATERIALS, 95% OF PAPER, PAPERBOARD AND ARTICLES THEREOF, 95% OF TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS, AND 94% OF OTHER MANUFACTURED GOODS CLASSIFIED CHIEFLY BY MATERIAL.
/THE TOTAL .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
11
THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CONTAINERISED SEABORNE EXPORTS IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 ROSE BY 14% OVER THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1991.
FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR 76% IN TERMS OF TONNAGE. IN PARTICULAR, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR ALL SEABORNE EXPORTS TO THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY, THE NETHERLANDS, AUSTRALIA; AND ALMOST ALL TO THE UNITED KINGDOM, THE USA AND JAPAN.
SEABORNE EXPORTS OF SOME PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES WERE ALL OR NEARLY ALL CONTAINERISED. THESE INCLUDED TOYS; ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES; OTHER MANUFACTURED ARTICLES; OTHER MANUFACTURED GOODS CLASSIFIED CHIEFLY BY MATERIAL AND MACHINERY.
SHIPPING STATISTICS OF OCEAN-GOING VESSELS ARE COMPILED PRIMARILY FROM GENERAL DECLARATIONS SUBMITTED TO THE MARINE DEPARTMENT BY SHIP MASTERS OR AUTHORISED SHIPPING AGENTS AND COVER ALL OCEANGOING VESSELS ENTERING AND LEAVING HONG KONG, EXCLUDING YACHTS AND PLEASURE CRAFT.
CARGO STATISTICS OF OCEAN-GOING VESSELS ARE COMPILED FROM A SAMPLE OF CONSIGNMENTS LISTED IN THE OCEAN CARGO MANIFESTS SUPPLIED BY SHIPPING COMPANIES OR AGENTS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT. THE SAMPLING METHOD IS DESCRIBED IN THE EXPLANATORY NOTES OF THE REPORT.
MORE DETAILS ON SHIPPING AND CARGO STATISTICS OF OCEAN-GOING VESSELS FOR THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 ARE CONTAINED IN THE ’HONG KONG SHIPPING STATISTICS REPORT, JULY - SEPTEMBER 1992’.
THIS REPORT IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AND THE PUBLICATIONS SALES COUNTER OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI AT $36.50 PER COPY.
ENQUIRIES ON STATISTICS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE TRADE SURVEYS AND SHIPPING STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 582 4887.
------0--------
EXPEDITIOUS TEXTILE EXPORT LICENSING SERVICE * ♦ ♦ t ♦
TEXTILE EXPORTERS FACING UNFORESEEN URGENCY TO OBTAIN EXPORT LICENCES ARE ENCOURAGED TO MAKE USE OF AN EXPEDITIOUS SERVICE OPERATED BY THE TRADE DEPARTMENT.
IN \ NOTICE TO EXPORTERS PUBLISHED l'ODA\ (THURSDAY ) , TRADERS ARE TOLD 'THAT TEXTILE EXPORT LICENCE APPLICATIONS (’AN BE PROCESSED AND Bl- READY FOR I SSI E WITHIN 2 1 HOURS, BARRING ANY INTERVENING HOLIDAYS.
/HOWEVER, A ........
12
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
HOWEVER, A SPOKESMAN OK THE DEPARTMENT SAID REQUESTS FOR EXPEDITIOUS ISSUE WOULD ONL\ BE ENTERTAINED IN SPECIAL <' I R( I MST ANGES WHERE THE APPLICANT, FOR ACCEPTABLE REASONS, OLI.D NOT W A I 'I FOR THE NORMAL TWO CLEAR WORKING DANS FOR THE ISSUE OF TEXTILE EXPORT LICENCES.
"AS A GENERAL RULE, NO I MORI- I’ll AN FIVE REQUESTS FOR THIS SERVICE FROM EACH COMPANY WILL BE ENTERTAINED DI RI NG ANY ONE MONTH.
"AND THIS SERVICE MAY RE SUSPENDED IN RESPECT OF APPLICANTS WHO HAVE BEEN FOUND TO HAVI- NADI- I SE Ol- I lli SERV ICE MORE FREQUENTLY THAN IS CONSIDERED REASONABLE,” HF ADDFI .
ALL REQUESTS FOR EXPEDITIOUS LICENSING SERVICE HAVE TO BE MADE ON A SPEC’I AL REQUEST FORM AVAILABLE \T THE TRADE DEPARTMENT AND SUPPORTED BY DOCUMENTS I- V I UENC I NG UNFORESEEN URGENCY.
EXAMPLES OF CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH A REQUEST MAY BE ENTERTAINED INCLUDE CASES WHERE THERI- \RE LAST MINUTE CHANGES TO THE SHIPMENT DATE REQUIRED BY Till- BU\ER; WHERE X I H ENCE II \S BEEN LOST IN A NATURAL DISASTER, OR WHERE 'I HERE HAS BEEN UNFORESEEN DELAY IN THE DEPARTURE DATE OF 1111- VESSEL BEYOND THE ' ALIDITY PERIOD OF A LICENCE.
A TOTAL Ol- 372,095 TEXTILE EXPORT LICENCES TO THE UNITED STATES MARKET WAS ISSUED LAST YEAR, OUT OF WHICH 1.5 PFR CENT WERE PROCESSED UNDER Till- EXPEDITIOUS Sl-R\ ICE.
-----0--------
136,000 STUDENTS TAKE PART IN CAREERS QUIZ
******
WINNERS OF THE CAREERS QUIZ ’93 WHICH ATTRACTED A RECORD NUMBER OF 136,220 STUDENTS FROM 285 SECONDARY SCHOOLS WILL RECEIVE THEIR PRIZES AT A PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY TO BE HELD IN EARLY MARCH.
THE CAREERS QUIZ IS ORGANISED BY THE CAREERS ADVISORY SERVICE (CAS) OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
THE QUIZ AIMS AT AROUSING STUDENTS’ AWARENESS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF CHOOSING A SUITABLE CAREER AND ENCOURAGING THEM TO SEEK INFORMATION ON CAREERS AND FURTHER EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES.
"THE CAREERS QUIZ IS A HIGHLIGHT OF THE EDUCATION AND CAREERS EXPO’93 WHICH WILL BE HELD AT THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE FROM FEBRUARY 18 TO 21," SENIOR LABOUR OFFICER MRS CLARE SIU SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
"THE EXPOSITION, ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL FOR THE SECOND TIME, WILL FEATURE MORE THAN 183 EXHIBITORS FROM A WIDE RANGE OF TRADES, INDUSTRIES, GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, PROFESSIONAL BODIES AS WELL AS LOCAL AND OVERSEAS EDUCATIONAL AND TRAINING INSTITUTES," SHE SAID.
"THE CAS WILL ALSO ARRANGE A COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAMME OF SUPPORTING ACTIVITIES DURING THE EXPOSITION, INCLUDING CAREERS TALKS BY PROFESSIONALS, VIDEO SHOWS AND STUDENT GROUP VISITS," MRS SIU ADDED.
/IN THIS .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
13
IN THIS YEAR'S QUIZ, THE THREE WINNING SCHOOLS IN FORM 3, 4
AND 5 SECTIONS ARE STFA LEUNG KAU KUI COLLEGE, CHRISTIAN ALLIANCE S C CHAN MEMORIAL COLLEGE AND KOWLOON TRUE LIGHT MIDDLE SCHOOL RESPECTIVELY.
THEY AND THE TWO RUNNERS-UP OF EACH SECTION WILL BE AWARDED A TROPHY.
THE HIGHEST-SCORING STUDENT IN THE THREE SECTIONS ARE WONG CHI-LING OF KOWLOON TRUE LIGHT MIDDLE SCHOOL (FORM 3), YEUNG WING-SHUN OF CMA PREVOCATTONAL SCHOOL (FORM 4) AND TAM KWOK-LEUNG OF STFA TAM PAK YU COLLEGE (FORM 5).
THEY WILL EACH BE AWARDED A PERSONAL COMPUTER AND THE THREE RUNNERS-UP OF EACH SECTION WILL EACH BE AWARDED A LANGUAGE SET.
OUTSTANDING STUDENTS IN EACH SECTION WILL ALSO BE PRESENTED WITH PRIZES AND SOUVENIRS.
ALL THE PRIZES ARE SPONSORED BY THE PHILIPS HONG KONG LIMITED.
"ANSWERS TO THE QUIZ QUESTIONS WILL BE DISPLAYED IN THE EDUCATION AND CAREERS EXPO '93. PARTICIPATING STUDENTS ARE WELCOME TO VISIT THE EXHIBITION AND CHECK THE CORRECT ANSWERS."
------0--------
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON THURSDAY, (FEBRUARY 4) UP TO 1.30 PM *****
MORNING
1. HEARING IN "OPEN SESSION" AT COURT NO. 10 IN THE SUPREME COURT BY MR JUSTICE BOKHARY.
[NOTE: REPRESENTATIVES FROM GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS APPEARING IN THE ABOVE HEARING INCLUDED MR K Y TSANG, CHIEF FIRE OFFICER AND MR C C CHEUNG, CHIEF AMBULANCE OFFICER FROM FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND DR K K LAI, SENIOR EXECUTIVE MANAGER (PROFESSIONAL SERVICES) FROM HOSPITAL AUTHORITY.]
AFTERNOON
2. DISCUSSION WITH DR LEONG CHE-HUNG.
3. STUDYING VERBATIM REPORTS OF THE PREVIOUS HEARINGS.
4. CORRESPONDENCE.
-----0------
/14.........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1993
- 14 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
*****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,500 REVERSAL OF LAF NIL BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 1,500 NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL EFFECT OF LAF TODAY NII, CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,500
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 115.1 *+0.1» 4.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.17 PCT 12 MONTHS 2402 5.50 101.62 3.92
1 MONTH 3.38 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 101.61 4.24
3 MONTHS 3.20 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 4.375 99.81 4.55
6 MONTHS 3.38 PCT 21 MONTHS 241 1 4.625 99.81 4.79
12 MONTHS 3.96 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 21,485 MN
CLOSED 4 FEBRUARY 1993
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
REVISED STRATEGIC COMMODITIES CONTROL LIST INTRODUCED ........ 1
APPOINTMENTS TO POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE .................. 2
CSD ABLE TO MEET CHALLENGES : SIR DAVID FORD ................. 3
NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT SCHEME ........ 4
HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION COMMITTEE MEMBERS APPOINTED ......... 5
GOVT DONATES $2M TO SOMALIA .................................. 7
MRS PATTEN LAUNCHES MARINE MONITORING VESSEL ................. 7
AUTOMATION OF DRUG ABUSE HOTLINE ............................. 8
INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION FOR THIRD QUARTER 1992 ........ 10
LOTS IN SAI KUNG TO BE RESUMED ............................... 12
ROAD WORKS IN TSUEN WAN PROPOSED ............................. 12
TENDERS FOR CONTAINER CARGO EXAM COMPOUND INVITED ............ 13
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY, OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 5) UP TO 4.30 PM ................................... 13
ENTRIES INVITED FOR SAFETY AT WORK POSTER COMPETITION ........ 14
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
15
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
1
REVISED STRATEGIC COMMODITIES CONTROL LIST INTRODUCED *****
THE TRADE DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT A NEW STRATEGIC COMMODITIES . CONTROL LIST, UNDER THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (STRATEGIC COMMODITIES) REGULATIONS, WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING ONE WITH EFFECT FROM FEBRUARY 12.
THE NEW SCHEDULE 1, PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY), REFLECTS ADVANCE IN TECHNOLOGY SINCE JULY 1991.
IT CONTAINS A RE-ORGANISED INDUSTRIAL LIST WHICH IS A MUCH REDUCED LIST OF GOODS AND INCLUDES SIGNIFICANT RELAXATIONS IN MOST AREAS.
FOUR ADDITIONAL CHEMICALS WHICH ARE CAPABLE OF • BEING USED IN THE MANUFACTURE OF CHEMICAL WEAPONS ARE ALSO INCORPORATED INTO THE MISCELLANEOUS LIST OF THE REVISED SCHEDULE 1.
NO SUBSTANTIAL CHANGES HAVE BEEN MADE TO SCHEDULES 2 AND 3 WHICH COVER IN-TRANSIT CONTROL AND END-USE CONTROL RESPECTIVELY.
THE IMPORT AND EXPORT OF STRATEGIC COMMODITIES ARE SUBJECT TO LICENSING CONTROL BY THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE.
THE PURPOSE OF LICENSING IS TO MONITOR AND CONTROL THE FLOW OF STRATEGIC COMMODITIES TO PREVENT HONG KONG FROM BEING USED AS A CONDUIT FOR THE PROLIFERATION OF WEAPONS.
COPIES OF THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (STRATEGIC COMMODITIES) REGULATION (AMENDMENT OF SCHEDULE) ORDER 1993, WHICH CONTAINS THE NEW SCHEDULES 1 AND 2, ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, CENTRAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, HONG KONG.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE DIRECTED TO THE STRATEGIC COMMODITIES SECTION, TRADE DEPARTMENT, FIFTH FLOOR, TRADE DEPARTMENT TOWER, 700 NATHAN ROAD, MONGKOK, KOWLOON (TELEPHONE NOS. 398 5576, 398 5577).
THE DEPARTMENT IS ALSO INFORMING THE TRADE, BY A CIRCULAR LETTER, OF DETAILS OF THE NEW SCHEDULES 1 AND 2.
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Z2 .........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
2
APPOINTMENTS TO POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE
******
THE GOVERNOR TODAY (FRIDAY) ANNOUNCED THE APPOINTMENT OF MS ROSANNA WONG YICK MING AS THE NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE, AN INDEPENDENT ADVISORY BODY THAT MONITORS AND OVERSEES THE INVESTIGATIONS OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST THE POLICE.
MS WONG IS THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF YOUTH GROUPS. A MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, SHE SUCCEEDS OUTGOING CHAIRMAN DR DANIEL TSE.
THE GOVERNOR HAS ALSO APPOINTED FOUR NEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS TO REPLACE MEMBERS WHOSE TERMS OF OFFICE HAD EXPIRED.
THE NEW POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE MEMBERS ARE:
* DR NATALIS YUEN CHUNG-LAU AND DR MICHAEL LEE YUK-KWAN FROM THE MEDICAL FIELD;
* MR LINUS CHEUNG WING-LAM, DIRECTOR-HONG KONG OF CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS; AND
* THE REV SEAN PATRICK BURKE, REGIONAL SUPERIOR OF THE MARYKNOLL FATHERS & BROTHERS.
DR FANNY CHEUNG MUI-CHING, WHO IS A READER WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, HAS BEEN REAPPOINTED. SHE WAS FIRST APPOINTED IN 1991.
THE POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE COMPRISES A CHAIRMAN, TWO VICE-CHAIRMEN AND EIGHT MEMBERS FROM DIFFERENT SECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY.
THE TWO EXISTING VICE-CHAIRMEN ARE MRS PEGGY LAM, AND MR MAN SAI-CHEONG. OTHER MEMBERS ARE MR ROBERT C. TANG QC, MR JUSTEIN WONG CHUN AND MRS ANITA CHAN FOK PO-CHUN.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO MEET MS WONG IN HER NEW CAPACITY AS CHAIRMAN OF THE POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE.
THE MEETING WILL BE HELD AT 4.30 PM TODAY IN ROOM 906, DUKE OF WINDSOR SOCIAL SERVICE BUILDING, NINTH FLOOR, 15 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
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/3 .........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
3
CSD ABLE TO MEET CHALLENGES : SIR DAVID FORD *****
THE DEPUTY TO THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, TODAY (FRIDAY) COMMENDED THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT (CSD) FOR BEING ABLE TO MANAGE TO PLAN FOR THE FUTURE, DESPITE ITS STRAINS ON BOTH ACCOMMODATION AND MANPOWER.
OFFICIATING AT CSD’S ANNUAL INSPECTION, SIR DAVID HOPED THAT THE PRESSURE FACED BY THE DEPARTMENT WOULD GRADUALLY EASE WITH THE RUN DOWN IN THE VIETNAMESE MIGRANT POPULATION IN THE TERRITORY.
"THE WAY SHOULD THEN BE CLEAR FOR YOU TO RELEASE FACILITIES, MANPOWER AND OTHER RESOURCES TO DEAL WITH PROBLEMS SUCH AS OVERCROWDING,” HE SAID.
SIR DAVID SAID 1992 WAS ANOTHER DIFFICULT YEAR FOR CSD.
"YOU HAVE TO COPE WITH CONTINUED PROBLEMS OF PRISON OVERCROWDING WHICH HAVE BEEN FURTHER AGGRAVATED BY THE IMPRISONMENT OF MORE HIGH-RISK OFFENDERS," HE SAID.
ADDING ON TOP WAS THE MANAGEMENT OF MOST OF VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS.
ON FUTURE PLANS, HE SAID CSD WAS PREPARED TO CONVERT SOME VIETNAMESE CAMPS BACK INTO PENAL INSTITUTIONS, DRAW UP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES TO UPGRADE AND EXPAND PRISON FACILITIES, AND INITIATE A NUMBER OF REVIEWS OF POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES RELATING TO REHABILITATION.
"I AM CONFIDENT THAT THESE MEASURES WILL HELP ENSURE THAT THE DEPARTMENT IS ABLE TO COPE WITH THE MOUNTING PRESSURE ARISING FROM EFFECTIVE LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTION AGAINST ORGANISED AND SERIOUS CRIME AND OUR INCREASED EFFORTS TO COMBAT ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION," HE ADDED.
WITH UNFAILING DISCIPLINE, LOYALTY, ESPRIT DE CORPS AND THE ABILITY TO COPE WITH UNUSUAL COMMITMENTS AND UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS, SIR DAVID WAS CONFIDENT THAT CSD WOULD BE ABLE TO MEET THE CHALLENGES THAT LAY AHEAD AND CONTINUE TO PROVIDE A SERVICE THAT MET THE NEEDS OF BOTH OFFENDERS AND THE COMMUNITY.
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT SCHEME * * * * *
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THE DETAILS OF THE ASSESSMENT SCHEME TO ENABLE PEOPLE WHO POSSESS NON-COMMONWEALTH QUALIFICATIONS TO BE ASSESSED FOR TEACHING IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS.
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW INVITED.
"CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED TO DETERMINE WHETHER THEY POSSESS THE ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS TO TEACH IN LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOLS," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE DEPARTMENT AND THE HONG KONG EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY WOULD CONDUCT THE ASSESSMENT - IN THE FORM OF WRITTEN, ORAL AND PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONS AS RELEVANT - WHICH WOULD TAKE PLACE IN APRIL AND MAY.
TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR ASSESSMENT, A CANDIDATE MUST:
* PRODUCE VALID DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE OF HAVING SATISFACTORILY COMPLETED A POST-SECONDARY FULL-TIME COURSE OF NOT LESS THAN THREE YEARS, OR EQUIVALENT, IN AN INSTITUTION OUTSIDE HONG KONG;
* BE OF GOOD CHARACTER AS TESTIFIED BY TWO REFEREES;
♦ BE ELIGIBLE TO STAY IN HONG KONG AND IS NOT SUBJECT TO ANY IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT RESTRICTION ON EMPLOYMENT.
"MOST CANDIDATES ARE EXPECTED TO TAKE, IN ONE SITTING, THE APPROPRIATE PAPERS IN PARTS I AND II OF THE EXAMINATIONS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"CANDIDATES MAY TAKE PART III AS WELL IF THEY HAVE SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED A FORMAL TEACHER EDUCATION COURSE IN RELEVANT SUBJECTS OUTSIDE HONG KONG," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE EXPLAINED THAT IN PART I, CANDIDATES WOULD BE ASSESSED ON THEIR KNOWLEDGE IN THE SUBJECTS THEY INTEND TO TEACH AND IN PART II, ON THEIR ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY WITH STUDENTS.
THE ASSESSMENT IN PART ITT WILL FOCUS ON PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS, INCLUDING TEACHING THEORY AND METHODOLOGY AND EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY.
"CANDIDATES WILL BECOME QUALIFIED TEACHERS IF THEY ARE SUCCESSFUL IN ALL THREE PARTS OF THE ASSESSMENT AND IF THEY COMPLETE A ONE-YEAR PERIOD OF SUPERVISED PRACTICAL TEACHING IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS," THE SPOKESMAN EXPLANINED.
THOSE SUCCESSFUL ONLY IN PARTS I AND II COULD BE APPOINTED AS PERMITTED TEACHERS IN PUBLIC SECTOR PRIMARY SCHOOLS AND WOULD HAVE TO COMPLETE A TWO-YEAR IN-SERVICE COURSE OF TRAINING FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS BEFORE BECOMING QUALIFIED TEACHERS.
/THE FEE ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
- 5
THE FEE FOR PARTS I AND II OF THE ASSESSMENT IS $1,800. FOR PART III, CANDIDATES WOULD BE REQUIRED TO PAY AN ADDITIONAL $500.
APPLICATION MUST BE MADE IN THE PRESCRIBED FORM. COPIES OF THE FORM ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT:
* ROOM G02, LUI KEE EDUCATION SERVICES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, 269 QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG; AND
* YAU TSIM DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE, SEVENTH FLOOR, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 405 NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON.
COMPLETED FORMS MUST BE RETURNED TO THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT BEFORE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27.
DETAILS OF THE ASSESSMENT SCHEME ARE CONTAINED IN THE APPLICATION FORM, GUIDANCE NOTES, EXAMINATION SYLLABUSES AND HANDBOOK FOR APPLICANTS.
FURTHER INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CALLING THE NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT SECTION ON TEL 892 6367 .
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HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION COMMITTEE MEMBERS APPOINTED * * * * *
THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR DOMINIC S W WONG, ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THE APPOINTMENT OF LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR TIK CHI-YUEN AS CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION.
THE EDUCATION COMMISSION IN ITS REPORT NO. 5 RECOMMENDED THE SETTING UP OF THE COMMITTEE.
MEMBERS COMPRISE SCHOOL PRINCIPALS, COUNCILS, TEACHERS, PARENTS AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT. THEY WOULD ADVISE ON WAYS TO STIMULATE AND CO-ORDINATE SUSTAINED PROGRESS IN HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION, AND TO MONITOR PROGRESS.
"IT IS HOPED THAT WITH INCREASED HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION AND THE LEADERSHIP OF THE NEWLY ESTABLISHED STANDING COMMITTEE, YOUNG PEOPLE WILL BE GUIDED TO STUDY IN A BETTER LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND PARENTS WILL PLAY A GREATER ROLE IN THE EDUCATION AND UPBRINGING OF THEIR CHILDREN," MR WONG SAID.
THE TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE COMMITTEE ARE:
» CONDUCT SURVEYS TO INVESTIGATE CURRENT PERCEPTIONS OF HOME-SCHOOL RELATIONSHIPS, THE ATTITUDES OF PARENTS, AND THE IMPROVEMENTS REQUIRED;
I* DISBURSE GRANTS
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
6
* DISBURSE GRANTS TO SCHOOLS WHICH HAVE IDEAS FOR INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO IMPROVING HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION, AND TO ENSURE THAT SUCCESSFUL SCHEMES ARE PUBLICISED;
* DEVELOP MULTI-MEDIA TRAINING AND PUBLICITY MATERIALS TO ENCOURAGE BETTER HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION;
* ENCOURAGE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATIONS;
* PROMOTE POSITIVE ATTITUDES THROUGH PUBLICITY PROGRAMMES, PUBLICITY FOR GOOD IDEAS, WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS;
* ADVISE TEACHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS, THROUGH THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TEACHER EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS, ON WAYS TO INCORPORATE THE CONCEPTS AND SKILLS OF WORKING WITH PARENTS IN COURSES OF INITIAL TEACHER TRAINING, REFRESHER COURSES AND IN-SERVICE TRAINING FOR SCHOOL HEADS AND TEACHERS;
* ADVISE THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND OTHER GOVERNMENT
DEPARTMENTS AND NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATIONS ON WAYS TO PROMOTE POSITIVE PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT IN THE EDUCATION PROCESS.
OTHER MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE ON HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION ARE:
* MRS LISU CHOW - PRINCIPAL OF YAN CHAI HOSPITAL LIM POR YEN SECONDARY SCHOOL
* MR TONG YOK-KEE - HEADMASTER OF SHEUNG KUNG HUI YAN LAAP PRIMARY AM SCHOOL
* MS WONG PO-OI - PRINCIPAL OF HO TAK KINDERGARTEN
* MR LAU KIM-HUNG - TEACHER OF ST STEPHEN’S COLLEGE, STANLEY
* MS WONG PO-YAM - TEACHER OF PO LEUNG KUK CFA NO.4 PRIMARY PM SCHOOL
* MS WAN SIU-WAH - TEACHER OF HOP YAT CHURCH CHAN PAK WONG MEMORIAL KINDERGARTEN
* MRS LEUNG KAM-CHI - CHAIRPERSON OF THE BELILIOS PUBLIC SCHOOL PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATION
* DR TAM KWOK-CHI - CHAIRMAN OF THE HENRIETTA SCHOOL
PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATION
* MR LAM KWOK-WAI - VICE-CHAIRMAN OF TAI PO PUBLIC SCHOOL PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATION
* MR LEUNG PAK-SHING - CHAIRMAN OF JOHN F KENNEDY CENTRE PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATION
* MS HUNG LAI-WAH - PARENT OF ALLIANCE KINDERGARTEN
/* MS NG SHUK-CHING ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
7 -
* MS NG SHUK-CHING - PARENT OF WILLIAM ANGLO-CHINESE KINDERGARTEN
* MR TSUI SEE-MING - ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (SCHOOLS), EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
* MRS GRACE YUNG - ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (SERVICES), EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
* MR LEUNG MAN-BUN (SECRETARY) - SENIOR EDUCATION OFFICER, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
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GOVT DONATES $2M TO SOMALIA
*****
THE GOVERNMENT HAD SENT A DONATION OF $2 MILLION TO SOMALIA THROUGH THE WORLD VISION OF HONG KONG TO PROVIDE DISASTER RELIEF TO THE COUNTRY, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE DONATION HAD BEEN MADE ON HUMANITARIAN GROUNDS IN RELIEF OF THE FAMINE-STRICKEN SOMALIS.
THE GOVERNMENT’S CONTRIBUTION WILL BE USED ENTIRELY ON FOOD, VACCINES AND OTHER RELIEF ITEMS. THE MONEY WILL NOT BE USED TO MEET THE OVERHEADS OR ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS OF THE RELIEF AGENCY.
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MRS PATTEN LAUNCHES MARINE MONITORING VESSEL
*****
MRS PATTEN TODAY (FRIDAY) OFFICIATED AT THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT’S NEW MARINE MONITORING VESSEL IN PENNY’S BAY.
NAMED AFTER AN EPD MARINE BIOLOGIST, DR CATHERINE LAM, THE PURPOSE-BUILT VESSEL WILL ENABLE THE DEPARTMENT TO IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY AND QUALITY OF ITS MONITORING PROGRAMME.
SPEAKING AT THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY, MRS PATTEN SAID THE EPD MONITORED WATER QUALITY AT OVER 100 SITES AND MARINE SEDIMENTS AT 65 SITES.
’’THESE NOT ONLY GIVE INFORMATION ABOUT TRENDS IN WATER QUALITY, THEY ALSO INDICATE WHETHER CONTROL MEASURES ARE BEING SUCCESSFUL AND WHETHER WATER QUALITY OBJECTIVES ARE BEING ACHIEVED IN THE DECLARED WATER CONTROL ZONES,” SHE SAID.
/THE NEW ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
8
THE NEW VESSEL IS EQUIPPED BOTH FOR TRAWLING AND MORE ADVANCED SAMPLING OF SEDIMENTS FOR INVESTIGATIONS OF MARINE LIFE.
ONE MAJOR IMPROVEMENT IS THE COMPUTER SYSTEM WHICH WILL INTEGRATE INFORMATION FROM THE NAVIGATION, METEOROLOGICAL AND MONITORING EQUIPMENT. THIS WILL GREATLY HELP IN THE GATHERING AND INTERPRETATION OF INFORMATION.
MRS PATTEN SAID: ”DR CATHERINE LAM WAS AN OFFICER IN THE WATER POLICY GROUP OF THE EPD WHO DIED IN 1990. SHE INSTIGATED MOST OF THE CURRENT MONITORING PROGRAMME AND CAMPAIGNED VIGOROUSLY FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THIS VESSEL.”
SHE ADDED THAT THE COMMISSIONING OF THE DR CATHERINE LAM WILL ENABLE THE DEPARTMENT TO CONTINUE TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY AND SCOPE OF ITS MONITORING PROGRAMME AND ASSOCIATED INVESTIGATIONS.
THE EPD MONITORS THE WATER QUALITY IN THE SEVEN WATER CONTROL ZONES FOR COMPLIANCE WITH WATER QUALITY OBJECTIVES AS DETAILED IN THE WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE.
IN ADDITION, THE DEPARTMENT ALSO CARRIED OUT SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS LAST YEAR ON THE EFFECTS OF MARINE DUMPING OF DIGESTED SEWAGE AND WATERWORKS SLUDGE AND THE CAUSE OF THE FISH MORTALITY AT STONECUTTERS ISLAND.
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AUTOMATION OF DRUG ABUSE HOTLINE
* * * * *
WITH A PRESS OF THE BUTTON, THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS (ACAN) HAS ITS DRUG ABUSE TELEPHONE ENQUIRY SERVICE HOTLINE AUTOMATED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE HOTLINE SERVICE PROVIDES MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WITH PRE-RECORDED MESSAGES IN CANTONESE ON 12 TYPES OF COMMON SUBSTANCES OF ABUSE AND ACCESS TO INFORMATION ON DRUG TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION FACILITIES.
THE AUTOMATION WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY THE INTRODUCTION OF A VOICE MESSAGING SYSTEM (VMS) TO THE HOTLINE.
SPEAKING AT A CEREMONY TO KICK OFF THE HOTLINE’S AUTOMATION TODAY, THE ACTING COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, MS ANISSA WONG, SAID BY ENHANCING THE SERVICE OF THE HOTLINE, IT WAS HOPED THAT NOT ONLY DRUG ABUSERS BUT ALSO THE PUBLIC AT LARGE COULD BE INFORMED OF DRUG-RELATED INFORMATION.
THE HOTLINE - 366 8822 - INSTALLED IN THE OFFICE OF THE
NARCOTICS DIVISION SINCE 1986, HAS BEEN PROVIDING THE PUBLIC WITH INFORMATION ON DRUG TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION FACILITIES, AND PREVENTIVE EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY.
/LAST YEAR..........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
9
LAST YEAR, THE HOTLINE RECEIVED ABOUT 2,800 ENQUIRIES.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC CALLING THE AUTOMATED HOTLINE WILL LISTEN TO THE VOICE MENU WHICH WILL INSTRUCT THEM TO CHOOSE THE PRE-RECORDED MESSAGE THEY WANT BY PRESSING A SUITABLE CODE.
THE CODES FOR THE 12 TYPES OF COMMON SUBSTANCES OF ABUSE ARE AS FOLLOWS:
CODE SUBSTANCE OF ABUSE
1 HEROIN
2 CANNABIS
3 LSD
4 TRANQUILLISERS
5 BARBITURATES
6 MANDRAX
7 AMPHETAMINES
8 COCAINE
91 ORGANIC SOLVENTS
92 NICOT1NE/TOBACCO
93 ALCOHOL
94 COUGH MEDICINES
BY PRESSING THE DIGIT "0" DURING OFFICE HOURS, CALLERS WILL BE CONNECTED TO THE OPERATOR WHO WILL ADVISE HIM ON WHAT DRUG TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION SERVICES HE CAN GET.
DURING THE TRIAL-RUN PERIOD IN THE PAST TWO WEEKS, THERE WERE NEARLY 200 CALLS A DAY. MOST CALLERS LISTENED TO THE PRE-RECORDED AUDIOTEXT.
COPIES OF THE TAPES RECORDING THE MESSAGES HAD ALSO BEEN PRODUCED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO INTERESTED PARTIES, INCLUDING SCHOOLS AND YOUTH CENTRES.
TO TIE IN WITH THE AUTOMATION OF THE HOTLINE, NARCOTICS DIVISION HAS PRODUCED FREE CALENDAR CARDS.
THEY CAN BE COLLECTED AT DISTRICT OFFICES AND URBAN COUNCIL AND REGIONAL COUNCIL PUBLIC LIBRARIES BY THE END OF NEXT WEEK.
ALSO TAKING PART IN TODAY’S CEREMONY WERE NEW CHAIRMAN OF ACAN, PROFESSOR CHEN CHAR-NEI, AND LOCAL SINGER MISS SANDY LAM.
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/10 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
10 -
INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION FOR THIRD QUARTER 1992 *****
THE INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION INCREASED SLIGHTLY IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 BY 3% OVER THE SAME QUARTER OF 1991, ACCORDING TO THE RESULTS OF A SURVEY RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE PAPER PRODUCTS AND PRINTING INDUSTRY CONTINUED TO PROSPER, WITH A MARKED INCREASE OF 17.6% IN PRODUCTION. PRODUCTION OF THE FOOD, BEVERAGES AND TOBACCO INDUSTRY ALSO INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY BY 11%.
RELATIVELY MODEST INCREASES OF 5.7% AND RESPECTIVELY IN THE TWO MAJOR INDUSTRIES OF KNITTING) AND WEARING APPAREL.
4.3% WERE RECORDED TEXTILES (INCLUDING
MEANWHILE, PRODUCTION OF THE INDUSTRY GROUP OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS, MACHINERY, PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT AND OPTICAL GOODS INCREASED ONLY SLIGHTLY BY 0.6%.
WITHIN THIS GROUP, HOWEVER, THE PRODUCTION OF MACHINERY, EQUIPMENT, APPARATUS, PARTS AND COMPONENTS INCREASED MARKEDLY BY 18.2%; WHEREAS THE PRODUCTION OF CONSUMER ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS DROPPED BY 7.5%.
ON THE OTHER HAND, A DECREASE OF 8.4% IN PRODUCTION WAS REPORTED IN THE CHEMICALS, RUBBER, PLASTIC AND NON-METALLIC MINERAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRY. THE DECREASE WAS MAINLY ATTRIBUTABLE TO A FALL IN PRODUCTION OF PLASTIC PRODUCTS.
A SIMILAR DECREASE OF 7.6% WAS ALSO RECORDED IN THE BASIC METALS AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRY.
COMPARED WITH PRECEDING QUARTER, THE INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION SHOWED AN INCREASE OF 7.9%. THIS WAS MAINLY DUE TO A SEASONAL RISE IN THE VOLUME OF ORDERS RECEIVED IN THE QUARTER FOR CHRISTMAS SALES.
THE INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION REFLECTS CHANGES OF LOCAL MANUFACTURING OUTPUT IN REAL TERMS. IN OTHER WORDS, THE VOLUME OF LOCAL PRODUCTION IS MEASURED AFTER DISCOUNTING THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES.
MORE DETAILED INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND IN THE "REPORT ON THE QUARTERLY INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION, 3RD QUARTER 1992", WHICH IS ON SALE AT $3.5 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, OR AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI. REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION MAY ALSO BE ARRANGED.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 839 3238.
/THE FOLLOWING .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
- 11 -
THE FOLLOWING IS A TABLE SHOWING CHANGES IN THE INDEXES OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION IN GREATER DETAIL. AS FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992, THE HONG KONG STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION (HSIC) IS USED TO FORM THE INDUSTRY GROUPS AND BROAD INDUSTRY GROUPS PRESENTED IN THE TABLE.
INDEXES OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION BY BROAD INDUSTRY GROUP AND SELECTED INDUSTRY GROUP
(1986 = 100)
BROAD INDUSTRY GROUP / SELECTED INDUSTRY GROUP INDEX FOR 3RD QTR. 1992 % CHANGE OVER 3RD QTR. 2ND QTR. 1991 1992
1 . FOOD, BEVERAGES AND TOBACCO 161 + 11.0 + 5.9
2. WEARING APPAREL, EXCEPT FOOTWEAR 120 + 4.3 + 14.3
3. TEXTILES (INCLUDING KNITTING) 148 + 5.7 + 13.8
4. PAPER PRODUCTS AND PRINTING 267 + 17.6 + 15.1
5. CHEMICALS, RUBBER, PLASTIC AND NON-METALLIC MINERAL PRODUCTS 87 -8.4 + 7.4
— PLASTIC PRODUCTS • (73) (-7.6) (+15.9)
6. BASIC METALS AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS 110 -7.6 + 4.8
-- FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS, EXCEPT MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT ( 107) (-10.1) (+3.9)
7 . ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS, MACHINERY, PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT AND OPTICAL GOODS 157 + 0.6 -3. 1
-- CONSUMER ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS ( 124) (-7.5) (-12.1)
— MACHINERY, EQUIPMENT, APPARATUS, PARTS AND COMPONENTS (214) (+18.2) (+5.9)
8. MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES 100 -2.0 + 4.2
/ALL MANUFACTURING
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
- 12
ALL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES 136 +3.0 +7.9
NOTES
1. FOUR SELECTED INDUSTRY GROUPS, WHICH CARRY RELATIVELY LARGE WEIGHTS AND ARE MAJOR COMPONENTS OF THE RESPECTIVE BROAD INDUSTRY GROUPS, ARE ALSO INCLUDED IN THE ABOVE TABLE. FOR EASY READING, THE FIGURES OF THESE SELECTED INDUSTRY GROUPS ARE SHOWN IN BRACKETS.
2. AS FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992, THE HONG KONG STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION (HSIC) IS USED TO FORM THE INDUSTRY GROUPS AND BROAD INDUSTRY GROUPS PRESENTED IN THE ABOVE TABLE. FOR THE EXACT COVERAGE OF THE GROUPS IN TERMS OF HSIC CODES, PLEASE REFER TO THE ’’REPORT ON THE QUARTERLY INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION, 3RD QUARTER 1992".
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LOTS IN SAI KUNG * * *
TO BE RESUMED * *
THE GOVERNMENT IS TO RESUME EIGHT LOTS OF BUILDING LAND IN SAI KUNG FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE THIRD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE TN TSEUNG KWAN O.
LOCATED IN FAT TONG CHAU, THE LOTS HAVE A TOTAL AREA OF 613.96 SQUARE METRES. IT WILL BE REVERTED TO THE GOVERNMENT THREE MONTHS AFTER THE RESUMPTION NOTICE WHICH IS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
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ROAD WORKS IN TSUEN WAN PROPOSED
*****
AS PART OF THE COMPREHENSIVE REDEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS FOR THE CHINA DYEING WORKS IN TSUEN WAN, ROAD REALIGNMENT WORKS AND CONSTRUCTION OF PEDESTRIAN LINKS HAVE BEEN PROPOSED, IT WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE WORKS INCLUDE REALIGNING THE MEI WAN STREET TO RUN ALONG THE MTR TRACKS, MEETING TSUEN KING CIRCUIT AS A DUAL CARRIAGEWAY; REPROVISIONING THE EXISTING CHIU TAM PATH AND CONSTRUCTING A COVERED ELEVATED WALKWAY AND CONNECTING BRIDGES OVER SAI LAU KOK ROAD AND THE REALIGNED MEI WAN STREET.
THE WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO START IN THE MIDDLE OF THIS YEAR.
/THE PLANS .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
- 13 -
THE PLANS AND SCHEME OF THE PROJECT ARE AVAILABLE AT THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL; THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT LANDS OFFFICE, 10TH FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CAR PARK BUILDING, 174-208 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, TSUEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES AND AT THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE, FIRST FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CAR PARK BUILDING, 174-208, CASTLE PEAK ROAD, TSUEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES.
ANY PERSON WHO WISHES TO OBJECT TO THE WORKS MUST SEND HIS OBJECTION TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT NOT LATER THAN APRIL 6, 1993.
THE GAZETTE NOTICE IN ENGLISH AND CHINESE HAS BEEN POSTED AT THE WORKS SITE.
--------0
TENDERS FOR CONTAINER CARGO EXAM COMPOUND INVITED
*****
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A PERMANENT SINGLE-STOREY CONTAINER CARGO EXAMINATION COMPOUND AT KWAI CHUNG CONTAINER PORT AREA, NEW TERRITORIES.
WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO START IN APRIL FOR COMPLETION IN JANUARY, 1994.
TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 34TH FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG.
DEADLINE FOR TENDER SUBMISSIONS IS NOON ON FEBRUARY 26, 1993.
--------0-----------
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 5) UP TO 4.30 PM *****
1. STUDYING AND FOLLOWING UP INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES.
2. REVIEWING TRANSCRIPTS OF PREVIOUS HEARINGS.
3. CORRESPONDENCE.
--------0-----------
/14 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
- 14 -
ENTRIES INVITED FOR SAFETY AT WORK POSTER COMPETITION *****
ENTRIES ARE INVITED FOR A SAFETY AT WORK POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION WHICH IS OPEN TO ALL LOCAL SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS.
THE COMPETITION IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF CAREERS MASTERS AND GUIDANCE MASTERS.
IT AIMS TO INSTIL AMONG STUDENTS AN AWARENESS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY AT WORK AND TO REMIND STUDENTS TO PAY ATTENTION TO SAFETY WHILE TAKING UP SUMMER JOBS.
THE COMPETITION IS SPONSORED BY THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL.
IT IS DIVIDED INTO JUNIOR AND SENIOR SECTIONS. PARTICIPANTS IN THE JUNIOR SECTION SHOULD BE FORM 1 TO FORM 3 STUDENTS, WHILE FORM 4 TO FORM 7 STUDENTS ARE INVITED TO TAKE PART IN THE SENIOR SECTION.
THE THEME FOR THE JUNIOR SECTION IS SAFETY AT WORK IN RELATION TO HAPPY FAMILY LIFE, WHILE THAT FOR THE SENIOR SECTION IS THE PROMOTION OF AWARENESS OF SAFETY AT WORK AMONG FELLOW STUDENTS.
THERE IS NO RESTRICTION ON THE NUMBER OF DESIGNS TO BE SUBMITTED. ALL ENTRIES SHOULD BE IN COLOUR PAINTING AND DRAWN ON A2 SIZE DRAWING PAPER. WORDINGS SHOULD BE KEPT TO A MINIMUM AND A FORM SHOULD BE POSTED AT THE BACK OF EACH ENTRY.
STUDENTS ARE REMINDED THAT ENTRIES OF THE COMPETITION WILL CLOSE ON FEBRUARY 12.
THE DESIGN TOGETHER WITH THE ENTRY FORM SHOULD BE SUBMITTED THROUGH THE HEADS OF SCHOOLS TO THE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ON THE 1 3TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL.
WINNERS WILL EACH BE AWARDED WITH A CASH CHEQUE AND A CERTIFICATE, WHILE ONE MERITORIOUS PARTICIPANT FROM EACH SCHOOL WILL ALSO BE GIVEN A CERTIFICATE. WINNING SCHOOLS TN BOTH SECTIONS WILL EACH BE AWARDED A TROPHY.
ENQUIRIES ON THE COMPETITION CAN BE MADE ON TEL 852 3565.
--------0------------
/15 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1993
- 15 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,500
REVERSAL OF LAF NIL
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 1,500
»
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -65
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,435
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 115.30 *+0.2* 5.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.79 PCT 12 MONTHS 2402 5.50 101.66 3.87
1 MONTH 3.35 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 101.67 4. 18
3 MONTHS 3.18 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 4.375 99.86 4.52
6 MONTHS 3.31 PCT 21 MONTHS 2411 4.625 99.85 4.77
12 MONTHS 3.89 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 20,142 MN
CLOSED 5 FEBRUARY 1993
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVT FULLY RESPECTS DISTRICT BOARDS ........................... 1
LATEST CAREERS INFORMATION FOR VISITORS ....................... 1
OPENING OF NEW POST OFFICE DEFERS ............................. 2
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
3
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1993
1
GOVT FULLY RESPECTS DISTRICT BOARDS * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT FULLY RESPECTS DISTRICT BOARDS, A VITAL MEANS TO ACHIEVE A MORE EFFECTIVE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME, TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICER, MR PO PUI-LEONG, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF TAI WO BRIDGE IN TAI PO, MR PO SAID THE IMPORTANT CONSULTATIVE ROLE OF DISTRICT BOARDS WAS HIGHLIGHTED IN THE RECENT GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
HE SAID TO BETTER THEIR WORK, MORE FUNDS WOULD BE PUMPED INTO THE BOARDS - 50 PER CENT MORE IN THE NEXT FINANCIAL YEAR AND TWICE THE PRESENT FIGURE IN 1994/95.
FOR THE FIRST TIME, DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMEN WILL BE INVITED TO ATTEND DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETINGS - THE WORKING SESSIONS OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS ON DISTRICT LEVEL.
"THIS WILL BETTER THEIR UNDERSTANDING OF THE DEPARTMENTS’ OPERATION AND IMPROVE MUTUAL TIES.
"DEPARTMENTS WERE ALSO REQUIRED TO CONDUCT MORE CONSULTATIONS WITH DISTRICT BOARDS, APPOINT SENIOR OFFICIALS TO ATTEND MEETINGS, AND PROVIDE AS MUCH INFORMATION AS POSSIBLE," MR PO SAID.
HE SAID THE GOVERNOR’S CONSTITUTIONAL PROPOSALS WOULD SOON BE DISCUSSED IN LEGCO. HE BELIEVED THAT A BEST DECISION WOULD BE MADE FOR THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
"I HOPE ALL OF YOU WILL SUPPORT THE PROPOSALS AND CONTINUE TO EXPRESS YOUR VIEWS SO THAT LEGCO CAN HAVE A MORE VALUABLE DISCUSSION," MR PO SAID.
-----0-------
LATEST CAREERS INFORMATION FOR VISITORS
*****
HONG KONG’S YOUNG PEOPLE AND WORKING ADULTS WILL BE ABLE TO COLLECT UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ON CAREERS, EDUCATION AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES AT THE EDUCATION & CAREERS EXPO ’93 TO BE HELD LATER THIS MONTH.
BEING THE MOST IMPORTANT EVENT OF ITS KIND IN 1993, EXPO’93 WILL FEATURE MORE THAN 180 EXHIBITORS FROM A WIDE RANGE OF TRADES, GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AS WELL AS LOCAL AND OVERSEAS EDUCATIONAL AND TRAINING INSTITUTES.
THE EVENT IS A COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND CAREERS EXHIBITIONS ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL AND THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
/"CAREERS '93 .......
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1993
2
’’CAREERS ’93 IS A CONTINUATION OF THE ANNUAL CAREERS EXHIBITION ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT IN PROMOTING CAREERS EDUCATION IN HONG KONG," SENIOR LABOUR OFFICER MRS CLARE STU SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
"IT WILL BE LAUNCHED IN A MUCH LARGER SCALE WITH PRESENTATIONS FROM 66 CAREERS EXHIBITORS.
"THROUGH VARIOUS MEANS, SUCH AS THE DISPLAY OF PHOTOGRAPHS, CHARTS AND GRAPHS, AND MODELS, THE USE OF AUDIO-VISUAL AIDS AND MICROCOMPUTERS, DISTRIBUTION OF LEAFLETS AND THE PROVISION OF ON-THE-SPOT ENQUIRY SERVICE, VISITORS WILL BE ABLE TO OBTAIN LATEST INFORMATION ON A WIDE RANGE OF JOBS.
"THE JOB INFORMATION WILL INCLUDE THE NATURE OF WORK, ENTRY REQUIREMENTS, RECRUITMENT CHANNELS, APPLICATION PROCEDURES, TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT, TRAINING AND CAREER ADVANCEMENT PROSPECTS," SHE ADDED.
TO ENCOURAGE SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS TO VISIT THE EXPO, THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS ARRANGED A SERIES OF GROUP VISITS AND 10 CAREERS SEMINARS BY SUCCESSFUL PROFESSIONALS FOR STUDENTS.
"RESPONSE FROM STUDENTS IS OVERWHELMING. MORE THAN 90 SCHOOLS WITH OVER 11,000 STUDENTS WILL TAKE PART IN THESE ACTIVITIES," MRS SIU REVEALED.
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ALSO ORGANISES NON-STOP CAREERS VIDEO SHOWS, INTRODUCING A WIDE RANGE OF CAREERS AND THE WORK OF PROFESSIONAL BODIES AND PUBLIC UTILITIES THROUGHOUT THE FOUR-DAY EVENT TO BE HELD ON LEVEL 7 OF THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE IN WAN CHAI BETWEEN FEBRUARY 18 (THURSDAY) AND 21 (SUNDAY).
ADMISSION TO THE EDUCATION AND CAREERS EXPO ’93 IS FREE AND THE OPENING HOURS OF THE EXHIBITION ARE AS FOLLOWS:
FEBRUARY 18 (THURSDAY) 10.30 AM - 7.00 PM
FEBRUARY 19 (FRIDAY) 9.30 AM - 7.00 PM
FEBRUARY 20 (SATURDAY) 9.30 AM - 7.00 PM
FEBRUARY 21 (SUNDAY) 9.30 AM - 7.00 PM
---0-------
OPENING OF NEW POST OFFICE DEFERS t * * » *
THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, MR M PAGLIARI TODAY (SATURDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT THE NEW TEXACO ROAD POST OFFICE LOCATED AT WEALTHY GARDEN, 28-32 TEXACO ROAD SCHEDULED TO START OPERATION ON FEBRUARY 8 WILL BE DEFERRED DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES.
THE EXISTING TSUEN WING STREET POST OFFICE AT 18-32 TSUEN WING
STREET WILL CONTINUE TO OPERATE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
Z3 .........
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1993
3
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ******
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,435
REVERSAL OF LAF +25
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 1,460
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY +200
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,660
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR RECOVERS WELL ....................................... 1
STEP-BY-STEP APPROACH TO POLITICAL REFORMS: SHA .............. 1
PUBLIC URGED TO GIVE MORE VIEWS ON REFORMS ................... 2
SEEK ADVICE TO AVOID BUILD-UP OF TEXTILE CONSIGNMENTS ........ 2
SIR ROBERT HO TUNG CHARITABLE FUND PAYS OUT S13M ............. 3
YUEN LONG MATERNITY HOME CLOSES ............... 4
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1993
1 GOVERNOR RECOVERS WELL ♦ * ♦ ♦
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, IS RECOVERING WELL, A GOVERNMENT HOUSE SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
HE WENT FOR A ONE-HOUR WALK IN THE COUNTRY PARK EARLIER TODAY WITH DR STEPHEN LEE OF THE CARDIAC’ TEAM, GOVERNMENT MEDICAL UNIT, QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL, AND DR LUK OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.
THE DOCTORS ARE PLEASED TO REPORT THAT MR PATTEN IS MAKING A GOOD RECOVERY AND SHOULD BE ABLE TO RESUME WORK ON FEBRUARY 15 AS PLANNED.
DR STEPHEN LEE IS THE CARDIOLOGIST WHO HEADED A TEAM WHICH INCLUDED DR RAYMOND CHAN, DR LINDA LAM AND DR KENNETH LAM. THEY SUCCESSFULLY TREATED THE GOVERNOR AT THE LEWIS LABORATORY ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3.
-----0------
STEP-BY-STEP APPROACH TO POLITICAL REFORMS: SHA ♦ * * * ♦
THE GOVERNOR’S POLITICAL BLUEPRINT WAS FORMULATED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE STEP-BY-STEP PRINCIPLE OF REFORMS, THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SUEN, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE CHINESE ETHNIC MINORITIES SHOW IN CENTRAL, MR SUEN STRESSED THAT THE PROPOSALS WERE MADE AFTER THE GOVERNMENT HAD FULLY CONSIDERED AND BALANCED THE VIEWS FROM VARIOUS SECTORS.
MANY OPINIONS AND SUGGESTIONS, HE ADDED, WERE RECEIVED SINCE THE GOVERNOR’S REFORM PACKAGE WAS ANNOUNCED.
THESE HAD BEEN COMPILED INTO A COMPENDIUM FOR REFERENCE BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND TO HELP THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN THEIR DISCUSSIONS ON THE ISSUE, HE SAID.
NOTING THAT THE BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION BILL HAD BEEN INTRODUCED RECENTLY, MR SUEN CALLED ON THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG TO OPENLY DISCUSS THE VARIOUS BILLS ON THE PROPOSED POLITICAL REFORMS.
-----0------
/2 ........
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1993
2 -
PUBLIC' URGED TO GIVE MORE VIEWS ON REFORMS ♦ * ♦ ♦ ♦
THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR PAUL WONG, TODAY (SUNDAY) URGED THE PUBLIC TO CONTINUE TO GIVE VIEWS ON THE GOVERNOR’S CONSTITUTIONAL PROPOSALS.
SPEAKING AT A SPRING LANTERN CARNIVAL IN YAU TSIM, MR WONG SAID THEIR OPINIONS COULD HELP THE GOVERNMENT AND THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TO COME UP WITH A POLITICAL MODEL WHICH WOULD BE FAIR, OPEN AND ACCEPTABLE TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
MR WONG SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD COLLECTED MANY SUBMISSIONS FROM DIFFERENT SECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY.
AND THE RELATED LEGISLATION WILL SOON BE INTRODUCED TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
MORE THAN 300 PEOPLE TOOK PART IN THE CARNIVAL WHICH WAS
ORGANISED BY THE YAU MA TEI AND TSIM SHA TSUI CULTURE AND ARTS
ASSOCIATION WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE YAU TSIM DISTRICT BOARD AND
URBAN COUNCIL.
PROGRAMMES INCLUDED GAME STALLS, MAGIC SHOW, CHINESE TRADITIONAL HANDICRAFTS, SINGING AND DANCING PERFORMANCES.
------0 ------
SEEK ADVICE TO AVOID HOLD-UP OF TEXTILE CONSIGNMENTS *****
TEXTILE EXPORTERS ARE URGED TO SEEK UP-TO-DATE CLASSIFICATION ADVICE FROM THE TRADE DEPARTMENT BEFORE ACTUAL SHIPMENT OF TEXTILE PRODUCT TO AVOID HOLD-UP BY IMPORTING COUNTRY AUTHORITIES.
A SPOKESMAN OF THE DEPARTMENT SAID:
’’CLASSIFICATION PRACTICE FOR TEXTILE EXPORT TO RESTRAINED MARKETS MAY CHANGE OVER. TIME.
’’RELEVANT AUTHORITY IN IMPORTING COUNTRIES, WHO CONSIDER THE PRODUCTS TO BE INCORRECTLY CLASSIFIED, HAVE THE RIGHTS TO HOLD-UP TEXTILE CONSIGNMENTS AND MAY REQUEST THE PRODUCTION OF A RETROSPECTIVE EXPORT LICENCE IN THE CATEGORY DEEMED TO BE APPROPRIATE FOR IMPORT PURPOSE.’’
THEREFORE, TRADERS ARE ADVISED TO SEEK CLASSIFICATION ADVICE PRIOR TO EXPORTATION.
’’SINCE REQUESTS FOR EXPEDITIOUS CLASSIFICATION ADVICE ARE NORMALLY NOT ENTERTAINED BY THE TRADE DEPARTMENT, TRADERS SHOULD GET IN TOUCH WITH THE DEPARTMENT WELL IN ADVANCE OF ACTUAL SHIPMENT OF TEXTILE PRODUCTS,” HE SAID.
/HE FURTHER .......
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1993
3
HE FURTHER EXPLAINED THAT IN CASES WHEN IMPORTING COUNTRY AUTHORITIES AND THE TRADE DEPARTMENT HELD DIFFERENT VIEWS ON CLASSIFICATION OF THE TEXTILE PRODUCTS IN QUESTION, THE DEPARTMENT WOULD TAKE UP THE MATTER WITH A VIEW TO SEEKING A SATISFACTORY RESOLUTION OF THE CLASSIFICATION DIFFERENCE.
"THE TRADE DEPARTMENT WILL MAKE EVERY ENDEAVOUR TO ASSIST THE TRADER, HOWEVER, IN THE EVENT THAT THE CLASSIFICATION DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE IMPORTING COUNTRY AUTHORITIES AND THE DEPARTMENT CANNOT BE RESOLVED, QUOTA OR PERMIT WILL BE REQUIRED TO BE SUPPLIED BY THE EXPORTER CONCERNED FOR IMPORT PURPOSE TO THE DESTINED COUNTRY," HE ADDED.
------0--------
SIR ROBERT HO TUNG CHARITABLE FUND PAYS OUT $ 13M * * * * *
THE SIR ROBERT HO TUNG CHARITABLE FUND HAS RECENTLY MADE GRANTS TOTALLING $13 MILLION TO 46 CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS IN HONG KONG, DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MISS JACQUELINE WILLIS, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
MISS WILLIS IS ALSO CHAIRMAN OF THE ALLOCATION COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE FOR ADVISING THE GOVERNOR ON ALLOCATIONS FROM THE FUND.
"THE MAJOR GRANTS THIS YEAR INCLUDED A SUM OF $1,213,622 MADE TO PO LEUNG KUK, OF WHICH $1 MILLION WAS TO FUND THE EXTENSION SCHEME OF THE KUK’S WELFARE BUILDING AND $213,622 FOR RENOVATION OF ITS LEK YUEN NURSERY," MISS WILLIS SAID.
SHE NOTED THAT WHILE $1,018,420 WAS GRANTED TO THE PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL FOR THE PURCHASE OF MEDICAL EQUIPMENT, THE ST JOHN COUNCIL FOR HONG KONG GOT A SUM OF $907,423 -- $776,263 TO SET UP A NEW AMBULANCE STATION IN SHEUNG SHUI AND $131,160 TO BUY TRAINING FACILITIES, OFFICE EQUIPMENT AND FURNITURE.
THE HAVEN OF HOPE HOSPITAL RECEIVED A GRANT OF $884,000 FOR THE PURCHASE OF ONE 53-SEATER BUS.
A SUM OF $793,000 WAS GRANTED TO THE FAMILY PLANNING ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG FOR THE SETTING UP OF TWO WOMEN’S CLUBS IN TSEUNG KWAN O AND TUEN MUN RESPECTIVELY.
THE SAMARITAN FUND WAS GRANTED $772,215 FOR THE PURCHASE OF WHEELCHAIRS AND SURGICAL IMPLANTS FOR NEEDY PATIENTS.
THE UNITED CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL WAS GRANTED $750,000 FOR THE PURCHASE OF AN AUTOMATIC HAEMATOLOGY ANALYSER.
THE DUCHESS OF KENT CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL RECEIVED A GRANT OF $733,500 FOR THE PURCHASE OF A FILM PROCESSOR AND A MOBILE X-RAY IMAGE INTENSIFIER UNIT.
/THE CARITAS .......
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1993
4
THE CARITAS MEDICAL CENTRE AND THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS WERE GRANTED $683,000 AND $640,000 RESPECTIVELY FOR THE PURCHASE OF MEDICAL EQUIPMENT.
SET UP WITH A BEQUEST OF $500,000 BY THE LATE SIR ROBERT HO TUNG ON HIS DEATH IN 1956, THE CHARITABLE FUND IS ONE OF THE LARGEST OF ITS KIND IN HONG KONG.
IN 1966, THE CAPITAL OF THE FUND WAS INCREASED THROUGH THE INJECTION OF $4.95 MILLION FROM THE CHINA CHARITABLE FUND SET UP BY HIM.
THE SIR ROBERT HO TUNG CHARITABLE FUND IS ADMINISTERED BY HONGKONG BANK TRUSTEE LTD.
--------0-----------
YUEN LONG MATERNITY HOME CLOSES * * ♦ * *
YUEN LONG MATERNITY HOME WILL BE CLOSED ON FEBRUARY 22 (MONDAY).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) THAT ALL CLIENTS PREVIOUSLY REFERRED TO THE MATERNITY HOME FOR ANTE-NATAL CARE WOULD BE DIRECTED TO POK OI HOSPITAL OR TUEN MUN HOSPITAL STARTING FROM THAT DATE.
THE CLOSURE WILL NOT AFFECT THE DISTRICT’S YUEN LONG MADAM YUNG FUNG SHEE MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CENTRE WHICH WILL CONTINUE TO PROVIDE VARIOUS MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
- 0 -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR GETS WELL ........................................... 1
GDP FOR THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 ................................ 1
REPRESENTATIVE GOVT TO BE STRENGTHENED ....................... 3
ANTI-DUMPING PROCEEDINGS AGAINST HK NOT JUSTIFIED ............ 4
MORE APPLICATION FORMS DISTRIBUTED ........................... 5
TENDER FOR 6TH ISSUE OF GOVT BONDS ........................... 5
TRADE DEPT HANDBOOK PUBLISHED ................................ 6
AWARD FOR ’’MONKEYS” STAMP ................................... 7
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ......................................... 7
LEGCO MEETS ON WEDNESDAY ..................................... 7
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY ........................................ 8
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND ........................... 8
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
9
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1993
1
GOVERNOR GETS WELL * * * *
A GOVERNMENT HOUSE SPOKESMAN TODAY (MONDAY) SAID THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, CONTINUED TO RECOVER WELL.
HE HAS SPENT THE DAY RELAXING AND READING AT HOME. HIS DOCTORS REMAIN ENTIRELY SATISFIED WITH HIS PROGRESS.
- 0 -
GDP FOR THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 *****
HONG KONG’S GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) GREW BY 5.2% IN REAL TERMS IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 OVER THE SAME QUARTER OF 1991, ACCORDING TO THE PRELIMINARY ESTIMATES RELEASED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY).
AMONG THE MAIN DOMESTIC COMPONENTS OF THE GDP ESTIMATES, GROSS DOMESTIC FIXED CAPITAL FORMATION GREW SIGNIFICANTLY BY 11.8% IN REAL TERMS IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 OVER THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1991.
WITHIN THIS COMPONENT, INVESTMENT EXPENDITURE ON MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT, IN PARTICULAR, SHOWED A REMARKABLE INCREASE OF 28.5%.
ON THE SAME BASIS OF COMPARISON, THE GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS FOR PRIVATE CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE WAS 9.1%, WHILE THAT FOR GOVERNMENT CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE WAS 9.5%.
REGARDING EXTERNAL TRADE IN GOODS, THE GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 WAS 0.6% FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND 26.8% FOR RE-EXPORTS. THE CORRESPONDING GROWTH RATE FOR IMPORTS OF GOODS WAS 20.7%.
AS REGARDS EXPORTS OF SERVICES, THE GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS WAS 7.6%. THE CORRESPONDING GROWTH RATE FOR IMPORTS OF SERVICES WAS 8.2%.
THE IMPLICIT PRICE DEFLATOR OF GDP, AS A BROAD MEASURE OF OVERALL INFLATION IN THE ECONOMY, ROSE BY 9.3% IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 OVER A YEAR EARLIER, FOLLOWING AN INCREASE OF 10.2% IN THE SECOND QUARTER.
THE YEAR-ON-YEAR GROWTH RATE OF OVERALL GDP FOR THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 WAS LOWER THAN THE GROWTH RATES RECORDED FOR THE VARIOUS FINAL DEMAND COMPONENTS, INCLUDING PRIVATE CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE, GROSS DOMESTIC FIXED CAPITAL FORMATION AND TOTAL EXPORTS OF GOODS AND SERVICES.
THIS IS NOT UNREASONABLE BECAUSE THE INCREASES FOR THE VARIOUS FINAL DEMAND COMPONENTS WERE SUPPORTED BY A LARGE INCREASE IN IMPORTS APART FROM THE INCREASE IN LOCAL PRODUCTION.
GDP REFLECTS HOW MUCH THE LOCAL ECONOMY HAS PRODUCED AND IS ACTUALLY THE SUM OF ALL FINAL DEMAND COMPONENTS NET OF THEIR CORRESPONDING IMPORT CONTENTS.
/ALSO RELEASED
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1993
2
ALSO RELEASED TODAY ARE THE UPDATED GDP ESTIMATES FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1990 TO THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1992.
HAVING INCORPORATED THE LATEST DATA AVAILABLE FROM VARIOUS SOURCES, THE REVISED (FEBRUARY 93) ESTIMATES SHOW THAT THE GROWTH RATES OF GDP IN REAL TERMS FOR THE FIRST TWO QUARTERS OF 1992 WERE 5.2% AND 4.6% RESPECTIVELY, WHILE THOSE FOR THE WHOLE YEAR OF 1990 AND 1991 WERE 3.2% AND 4.2% RESPECTIVELY.
BASED ON THE LATEST GDP ESTIMATES, GDP GREW BY 5% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST THREE QUARTERS OF 1992 OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1991 .
THE LATEST ESTIMATES OF QUARTERLY GDP FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1990 TO THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 ARE PUBLISHED IN A REPORT ENTITLED "QUARTERLY ESTIMATES OF GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT, 3RD QUARTER 1992”.
THE REPORT IS NOW ON SALE AT $2 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL; AND AT THE PUBLICATION SALES COUNTER OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WAN CHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
ENQUIRIES MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE NATIONAL INCOME BRANCH OF THE CENSUS & STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 582 5077.
LATEST GDP FIGURES FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1990 TO THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 ARE PRESENTED IN THE FOLLOWING TABLE:
/EXPENDITURE-BASED .......
3
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1993
EXPENDITURE-BASED GDP ESTIMATES
FIRST QUARTER OF 1990 TO THIRD QUARTER OF 1992
GDP AT CURRENT MARKET PRICES
GDP AT CONSTANT (1980) MARKET PRICES
% %
CHANGE OVER CHANGE OVER
SAME PERIOD OF SAME PERIOD OF
YEAR/QUARTER HK$ MN THE PRECEDING YEAR HK$ MN THE PRECEDING YEAR
1990 558,859 12.0 262,688 3.2
1991 641,136 14.7 273,686 4.2
1990 QI 122,858 11.5 59,196 0.9
Q2 132,518 11.6 62,032 3.7
Q3 149,777 12.3 70,594 4.2
Q4 153,706 12.3 70,866 3.9
1991 QI 139,576 13.6 61,688 4.2
Q2 151,511 14.3 64,368 3.8
Q3 171,447 14.5 73,215 3.7
Q4 178,602 16.2 74,415 5.0
1992 QI 163,922 17.4 64,896 5.2
Q2 174,709 15.3 67,313 4.6
Q3 197,114 15.0 77,005 5.2
--------0
REPRESENTATIVE GOVT TO BE STRENGTHENED
******
THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR ALBERT LAM CHI-CHIU, WAS CONFIDENT THAT HONG KONG’S REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT WOULD BE FURTHER STRENGTHENED BECAUSE OF THE COMMUNITY’S INCREASED AWARENESS OF ITS CIVIC RESPONSIBILITIES.
SPEAKING AT THE SPRING RECEPTION OF THE NEW TERRITORIES GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TODAY (MONDAY), MR LAM STRESSED THAT THE GOVERNOR’S CONSTITUTIONAL PACKAGE WAS FORMULATED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE GENERAL WISHES OF THE PEOPLE AND IN THEIR BEST INTERESTS.
THE GOVERNMENT, HE SAID, WELCOMED COMMUNITY GROUPS AND INDIVIDUALS TO DISCUSS MR PATTEN’S BLUEPRINT AND TO AIR THEIR VIEWS IN A CONSTRUCTIVE, RATIONAL AND RESPONSIBLE MANNER.
/’’THIS WILL ..........
4
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1993
"THIS WILL ENSURE THAT THE BEST POSSIBLE RESULTS WILL BE ACHIEVED WHEN THE PROPOSALS ARE PUT INTO PRACTICE," HE ADDED.
CALLING ON MEMBERS OF THE CHAMBER TO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS, MR LAM EMPHASISED THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PROPOSALS TO THE LONG-TERM INTERESTS OF HONG KONG.
--------0------------
ANTI-DUMPING PROCEEDINGS AGAINST HK NOT JUSTIFIED
*****
THE GOVERNMENT SUBMITTED A REPRESENTATION TO THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITY LAST THURSDAY (FEBRUARY 4) SETTING OUT WHY THE ANTI-DUMPING PROCEEDINGS AGAINST 3.5" MAGNETIC DISCS ORIGINATING IN HONG KONG SHOULD BE TERMINATED.
AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (MONDAY), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE, MS MARIA KWAN SAID: "BASED ON INFORMATION AVAILABLE, WE HAVE DOUBTS THAT THE INITIATION OF ANTI-DUMPING PROCEEDINGS AGAINST 3.5" MAGNETIC DISCS ORIGINATING IN HONG KONG IS JUSTIFIED.
"VERY FLIMSY EVIDENCE OF DUMPING HAD BEEN PUT FORWARD.
"WE ARE NOT CONVINCED THAT THE COMMUNITY INDUSTRY HAD SUFFERED INJURY OR THAT IT HAD BEEN CAUSED BY DUMPING BY HONG KONG COMPANIES. WE ALSO FEEL THAT THE COMPLAINANT IS NOT REPRESENTATIVE OF THE COMMUNITY INDUSTRY CONCERNED.
"THE COMMISSION MAY TAKE A WHILE TO CONSIDER THE REPRESENTATION," MS KWAN SAID.
"SO IT IS NOT LIKELY THAT WE WOULD GET AN IMMEDIATE RESPONSE. OUR ECONOMIC AND TRADE OFFICE IN BRUSSELS WILL FOLLOW UP ON THE MATTER."
SHE EMPHASISED THAT THE TRADE DEPARTMENT, WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE OVERSEAS OFFICES, ALWAYS MONITOR CLOSELY DEVELOPMENTS REGARDING ANTI-DUMPING ACTION AGAINST HONG KONG TO ENSURE THAT INITIATION IS NOT BASED ON FRIVOLOUS COMPLAINTS AND THAT HONG KONG COMPANIES WOULD NOT BE UNFAIRLY TREATED.
"THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY CAN REST ASSURED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD DO ALL IT CAN TO SAFEGUARD HONG KONG’S INTEREST," MS KWAN SAID.
PROCEEDINGS AGAINST 3.5" MAGNETIC DISCS ORIGINATING IN HONG KONG WERE INITIATED BY THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION ON SEPTEMBER 18, 1992.
THE INVESTIGATION IS UNDERWAY. FOUR LOCAL COMPANIES HAVE RESPONDED TO THE COMMISSION’S QUESTIONNAIRE AND ARE AWAITING ON-SITE VERIFICATION OF THEIR DATA BY COMMISSION OFFICIALS.
EXPORTS OF UNRECORDED MAGNETIC DISCS TO THE EC CONTINUE TO DECLINE. FOR THE FIRST 11 MONTHS OF 1992, EXPORTS CAME TO HK $111 MILLION AND SHOWED A DROP OF 38 PERCENT AS COMPARED WITH THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD IN 1991.
- - - - 0 ------------
/5 ........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1993 5 -
MORE APPLICATION FORMS DISTRIBUTED *****
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) DISTRIBUTED A TOTAL OF 179 SETS OF NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT APPLICATION DOCUMENTS COMPRISING 79 SETS AT THE LUI KEE EDUCATION SERVICES CENTRE IN WAN CHAI AND 100 AT THE YAU TSIM DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE IN KOWLOON.
THIS BRINGS THE TOTAL NUMBER OF SETS DISTRIBUTED SINCE FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 5) TO 236.
------0-------
TENDER FOR 6TH ISSUE OF GOVT BONDS *****
THE OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND TODAY (MONDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT THE TENDER FOR THE SIXTH ISSUE OF GOVERNMENT BONDS WILL BE HELD NEXT MONDAY (FEBRUARY 15) FOR SETTLEMENT ON TUESDAY (FEBRUARY 16).
AS WITH THE PREVIOUS FIVE ISSUES, AN AMOUNT OF HK$500 MILLION TWO-YEAR BONDS WILL BE ON OFFER.
IN ADDITION TO THAT, ANOTHER HK$100 MILLION WILL BE HELD AS RESERVE BY THE OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND FOR SUPPLY TO MARKET MAKERS IN THE SECONDARY MARKET.
THE BONDS WILL MATURE ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1995 AND WILL CARRY INTEREST AT THE RATE OF 4.75% PER ANNUM PAYABLE SEMI-ANNUALLY TN ARREARS.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO TENDER FOR THE BONDS MAY DO SO THROUGH AN^ OF Till- MARKET MAKERS OR RECOGNISED DEALERS ON THE PUBLISHED LIST WHICH CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND AT 24TH FLOOR, ADMIRALTY CENTRE, TOWER II, 18 HARCOURT ROAD, HONG KONG (OR TELEPHONE 528 9110).
EACH TENDER MUST BE FOR AN AMOUNT OF HK$50,000 OR INTEGRAL MULTIPLES THEREOF.
TENDER INFORMATION FOR SIXTH ISSUE OF GOVERNMENT BONDS:
ISSUE NUMBER : 2502
TENDER DATE AND TIME : MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993, 9.30 AM TO 10.30 AM
ISSUE AND SETTLEMENT : TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993 DATE
AMOUNT ON OFFER
MATURITY
: HK$500 MILLION PLUS AN ADDITIONAL HK$100 MILLION AS RESERVE STOCK FOR THE OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND
: TWO YEARS
/MATURITY DATE .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1993
6
MATURITY DATE
INTEREST RATE
INTEREST PAYMENT
DATES
TENDER AMOUNT
OTHER DETAILS
: FEBRUARY 16, 1995
: 4.75% PER ANNUM PAYABLE SEMI-ANNUALLY IN ARREARS
: AUGUST 16, 1993, FEBRUARY 16, 1994 AUGUST 16, 1994, FEBRUARY 16, 1995
: EACH TENDER MUST BE FOR AN AMOUNT OF HK$50,000 OR INTEGRAL MULTIPLES THEREOF. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO TENDER FOR THE BONDS MAY APPROACH MARKET MAKERS OR RECOGNISED DEALERS ON THE PUBLISHED LIST
: PLEASE SEE INFORMATION MEMORANDUM PUBLISHED OR APPROACH MARKET MAKERS OR RECOGNISED DEALERS
-----0------
TRADE DEPT HANDBOOK PUBLISHED ♦ * * * *
THE 1993 EDITION OF THE TRADE DEPARTMENT HANDBOOK HAS BEEN PUBLISHED AND IS NOW AVAILABLE FREE TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
THIS 80-PAGE PUBLICATION OF A-5 SIZE IS A HANDY GUIDE TO SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE TRADE DEPARTMENT, HONG KONG GOVERNMENT OVERSEAS OFFICES AND OTHER LOCAL TRADE BODIES.
THE FIVE MAIN CHAPTERS IN THE HANDBOOK OUTLINE THE ORGANISATION OF THE TRADE DEPARTMENT; SERVICES IT PROVIDES; LICENSING PROCEDURES; IMPORT AND EXPORT CONTROLS B\ OTHER DEPARTMENTS AS WELL AS BY LOCAL TRADE ORGANISATIONS.
ITS APPENDICES GIVE DETAILS ON FEES AND CHARGES ON LICENSING SERVICES, AND TELEPHONE ENQUIRY NUMBERS IN VARIOUS BRANCHES AND DIVISIONS IN THE DEPARTMENT.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRADE DEPARTMENT SAID THE PUBLICATION OF THE HANDBOOK IS TO FACILITATE LOCAL AND OVERSEAS TRADERS IN THEIR DEALINGS WITH THE DEPARTMENT.
’’THOSE USING THE SERVICES OF OUR DEPARTMENT WILL FIND THE HANDBOOK USEFUL AND INFORMATIVE. IN FACT, THE FORMAT OF THE HANDBOOK HAS BEEN MODIFIED SLIGHTLY TO MAKE IT MORE READABLE,” HE SAID.
THE TRADE DEPARTMENT HANDBOOK IS UPDATED AND PUBLISHED ANNUALLY SINCE 1988.
FREE COPIES OF BOTH THE ENGLISH AND CHINESE VERSIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE ENQUIRY COUNTER OF THE TRADE DEPARTMENT, GROUND FLOOR, TRADE DEPARTMENT TOWER, 700 NATHAN ROAD, MONG KOK, KOWLOON. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 398 5334 DURING OFFICE HOURS.
-----0------
Z7.........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1993
7
AWARD FOR •’MONKEYS'’ STAMP ♦ * * *
THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, MR M PAGLIARI, ANNOUNCED TODAY (MONDAY) THAT THE DESIGN OF THE LUNAR NEW YEAR STAMPS "YEAR OF THE MONKEY 1992" RECENTLY WON AN AWARD - A CERTIFICATE OP EXCELLENCE IN THE "PROMOTTONAL MAILING" CATEGORY OF THE PRESTIGIOUS COMPETITION DESIGN ’92 ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG DESIGNERS ASSOCIATION.
THE STAMPS, WHICH FEATURED POUR MONKEYS IN EMBROIDERY STYLE, WERE DESIGNED BY MR KAN TAI-KEUNG.
------0-------
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 53.5 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 313.433 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 176.911 MILLION
CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 30.2 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
------0-------
LEGCO MEETS ON WEDNESDAY *****
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, DR THE HON LEONG CHE-HUNG, WILL MOVE A MOTION ON TRAUMA TO CHILDREN AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING ON WEDNESDAY (FEB 10).
DR THE HON CONRAD LAM WILL MOVE AN ADJOURNMENT DEBATE ON AIDS IN HONG KONG.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO ASK A TOTAL OF 20 QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER FOUR BILLS AT THE MEETING.
OF THE FOUR BILLS, TWO WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
THEY ARE AUDIT (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 AND BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION BILL.
TWO OTHER BILLS, CHIROPRACTORS REGISTRATION BILL AND AIR POLLUTION CONTROL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1992, ARE DUE TO GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE GIVEN A THIRD READING.
IN ADDITION, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY WILL MOVE A MOTION TO SUSPEND THE STANDING ORDERS TO ENABLE THE ELECTION OF THE PRESIDENT AND THE PRESIDENT’S DEPUTY OF THE COUNCIL ON FEBRUARY 19.
ALSO, THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS WILL PRESENT THE REGIONAL COUNCIL ESTIMATES OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR ENDING MARCH 31, 1994.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OBSERVE THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE MEETING AND THEY MAY MAKE RESERVATIONS BY TELEPHONING 869 9492.
-----0------
/8.........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1993
8
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY *****
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE DURING THE WEEKEND:
STUDYING HONG KONG BAR ASSOCIATION’S SUBMISSION.
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE TODAY (MONDAY) UP TO 4.30 PM:
* REVIEW OF LICENSING LAW AND PRACTICES;
* STUDYING INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES AND CIVIL AID SERVICES; AND
♦ MORE FACT-FINDING WORK.
------0-------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING FEBRUARY 15, 1993
TENDER DATE FEB 15, 93
PAPER ON OFFER GOVT BONDS
ISSUE NUMBER 2502
ISSUE DATE FEB 16, 93
MATURITY DATE FEB 16, 95
TENOR 2 YEARS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HK$500+100 MN
COUPON 4.75 PCT
- 0-
/9.........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1993
9
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ***** $ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,660
REVERSAL OF LAF -160
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 1,500
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -100
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,400
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 115.30 *+0 .0* 8.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS
TERMS YIELD TERM
1 WEEK 3.68 PCT 12 MONTHS
1 MONTH 3.15 PCT 15 MONTHS
3 MONTHS 3.06 PCT 18 MONTHS
6 MONTHS 3.18 PCT 21 MONTHS
12 MONTHS 3.59 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
2402 5.50 102.00 3.53
2405 5.50 102.05 3.87
2408 4.375 100.34 4.18
2411 4.625 100.33 4.47
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS
CLOSED 8 FEBRUARY 1993
- 14,057 MN
-----0------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
ELECTION BILL WILL SOON BE MADE PUBLIC .................. 1
STATEMENT ON TUNNEL TOLL INCREASE APPLICATION ........... 1
NO DECISION ON TENANCY FOR MID-STREAM OPERATION ......... 1
VOLUME AND PRICE MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN NOVEMBER 1992 2
COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO WITNESS PROTECTION ........... 8
CHANCES TO EXPORT HK'S SERVICE TRADE .................... 8
ZAIRE TRAVEL ADVICE ..................................... 10
AUCTION OF LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS ............. 11
POP CONCERT TO SPREAD FIGHT-CRIME MESSAGES .............. 11
UNAUTHORISED BUILDING TO BE CLOSED ...................... 12
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY ................................... 13
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS ....... 13
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
14
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
1
ELECTION BILL WILL SOON BE MADE PUBLIC
*****
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS TAKEN FORWARD ITS DISCUSSIONS OF THE LEGISLATION TO IMPLEMENT THE PACKAGE OF ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS. THE BILL WILL BE MADE PUBLIC LATER THIS MONTH.
-----0 -----
STATEMENT ON TUNNEL TOLL INCREASE APPLICATION
*****
IN RESPONSE TO PRESS ENQUIRIES, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT BRANCH SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL’S TRANSPORT PANEL WERE TOLD AT THIS MORNING’S MEETING THAT THE NEW HK TUNNEL CO HAD SUBMITTED AN APPLICATION FOR TOLL INCREASE FOR THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING.
THE APPLICATION IS STILL BEING CONSIDERED BY THE GOVERNMENT AND NO DECISIONS HAVE BEEN TAKEN.
MEMBERS WERE INFORMED THAT THE APPLICATION WAS SUBMITTED BECAUSE THE COMPANY BELIEVED THAT THEIR OPERATION WAS NOT SUFFICIENTLY PROFITABLE.
THE BASIS OF THE APPLICATION IS BEING CONSIDERED BUT DETAILS CANNOT BE RELEASED BECAUSE OF COMMERCIAL SENSITIVITY OF SOME OF THE INFORMATION, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
MEMBERS WERE INFORMED THAT A BRIEFING COULD BE ARRANGED FOR THEM IN DUE COURSE IF THEY SO WISHED.
--------0------------
NO DECISION ON TENANCY FOR MID-STREAM OPERATION
*****
THE ADMINISTRATION FULLY APPRECIATES THE CONCERNS OF TUEN MUN RESIDENTS ON THE PROPOSED USE OF PARI’ OF AREA 16 IN TUEN MUN FOR MIDSTREAM OPERATION, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID, IN RESPONSE TO VIEWS EXPRESSED BY LOCAL DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS EARLIER TODAY (TUESDAY).
"THE ADMINISTRATION HAS ALL ALONG MADE CLEAR THAT THE PROPOSED SHORT-TERM TENANCY (STT) IS STILL UNDER CONSIDERATION. NO DECISION HAS BEEN TAKEN.
"IN CONSIDERING THE PROPOSAL., ALL FACTORS, INCLUDING LOCAL VIEWS AND RESULTS OF TRAFFIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STUDIES, WILL BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT. THE MATTER WILL BE FULLY CONSIDERED WHEN ALL THE RELEVANT INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE ADMINISTRATION LOOKS FORWARD TO DISCUSSING THE MATTER FURTHER WITH THE WORKING GROUP SET UP B\ THF TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD TO EXAMINE THE PROBLEM," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
0
/2 .........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
2
VOLUME AND PRICE MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN NOVEMBER 1992 *****
THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCREASED BY 1% IN THE FIRST If MONTHS OF 1992, AS COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1991, WHILE THAT OF RE-EXPORTS INCREASED BY 29%, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (TUESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
TAKING DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS TOGETHER, THE VOLUME OF TOTAL EXPORTS INCREASED BY 20%. IMPORTS INCREASED BY 23% IN VOLUME.
THE GROWTH IN THE VOLUME OF TRADE IS DERIVED FROM THE GROWTH TN TRADE VALUES WITH THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES BEING DISCOUNTED.
AS REGARDS PRICE CHANGES OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS BOTH INCREASED BY 1%. IMPORT PRICES REMAINED VIRTUALLY UNCHANGED.
PRICE CHANGES ARE REFLECTED BY CHANGES IN UNIT VALUE INDICES, WHICH ARE COMPILED BASED ON AVERAGE UNIT VALUES OR, FOR CERTAIN COMMODITIES, BASED ON SPECIFIC PRICE DATA.
THE TERMS OF TRADE INDEX, DEFINED AS THE RATIO OF TOTAL EXPORT PRICE INDEX TO IMPORT PRICE INDEX, INCREASED BY 1% IN THE FIRST 11 MONTHS OF 1992 AS COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1991.
COMPARING NOVEMBER 1992 WITH NOVEMBER 1991, THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS DECREASED BY 2% WHILE THAT OF RE-EXPORTS INCREASED BY 21%. THE VOLUME OF TOTAL EXPORTS INCREASED BY 15%. THE VOLUME OF IMPORTS INCREASED BY 21%.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES’ OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCREASED BY 2%, WHILE THOSE OF RE-EXPORTS REMAINED VIRTUALLY UNCHANGED. IMPORT PRICES DECREASED BY 1%.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS RY PRINCIPAL COMMODITY GROUP ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 1.
COMPARING NOVEMBER 1992 WITH NOVEMBER 1991, THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS RECORDED A SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE OF 72%.
ON THE OTHER HAND, CONSIDERABLE DECREASES IN THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE RECORDED FOR DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES (-49%); FOOTWEAR (-24%); AND TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED ARTICLES (-16%).
AS REGARDS DOMESTIC EXPORT PRICES, COMMODITY GROUPS WHICH RECORDED SIGNIFICANT INCREASES INCLUDED CLOTHING (+6%); AND FOOTWEAR (+4%).
ON THE OTHER HAND, THE DOMESTIC EXPORT PRICES OF RADIOS OF ALL KINDS; AND ELECTRON IC COMPONENTS DECLINED RY 9% AND 6% RESPECTIVELY.
THE CHANGES TN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF IMPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 2.
THE IMPORT VOLUME OF FOODSTUFFS INCREASED BY 9% IN NOVEMBER 1992 AS COMPARED WITH NOVEMBER 1991.
/SIGNIFICANT INCREASES .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
3
SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED FOR THE IMPORT VOLUME OF MILK, BUTTER, CHEESE AND EGGS; MEAT AND MEAT PREPARATIONS ; RICE; AND CEREALS AND CEREAL PREPARATIONS (OTHER THAN RICE, WHEAT AND FLOUR).
HOWEVER, CONSIDERABLE DECREASES WERE RECORDED FOR THE IMPORT VOLUME OF SOYA BEAN OIL, PEANUT OIL, VEGETABLE OIL AND LARD; AND SUGAR.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE IMPORT VOLUME OF CONSUMER GOODS INCREASED BY 24%.
COMMODITY ITEMS WITH CONSIDERABLE INCREASES TN IMPORT VOLUME INCLUDED PASSENGER MOTOR CARS; ALCOHOL I (’ BEVERAGES; AND RADIOS, TELEVISION SETS, GRAMOPHONES, RECORDS, TAPE RECORDERS AND AMPLIFIERS.
THE IMPORT VOLUME OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES INCREASED BY 13% IN NOVEMBER 1992 AS COMPARED WITH NOVEMBER 1991.
SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN IMPORT VOLUME WERE NOTED FOR THERMIONIC CATHODE VALVES AND TUBES, DIODES, TRANSISTORS AND ELECTRICAL MI CROC I RCU ITS ; WOVEN FABRIC’S OF WOOL AND MIXTURES; RAW COTTON; AND WOOL AND OTHER ANIMAL HAIR. HOWEVER, CONSIDERABLE DECREASES WERE RECORDED FOR THE IMPORT VOLUME OF INEDIBLE ANIMAL AND VEGETABLE MATERIALS; MAN-MADE FIBRES; AND CHEMICAL ELEMENTS AND COMPOUNDS.
IMPORTS OF FUELS INCREASED BY 16% IN VOLUME IN NOVEMBER 1992 AS COMPARED WITH NOVEMBER 1991.
AS REGARDS CAPITAL GOODS, THE IMPORT VOLUME INCREASED BY 36% IN NOVEMBER 1992 OVER NOVEMBER 1991.
NOTABLE INCREASES WERE RECORDED FOR THE IMPORT VOLUME OF CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY; OFFICE MACHINES; OTHER INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY (OTHER THAN TEXTILE MACHINERY AND ELECTRICAL MACHINERY); TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT; AND SCIENTIFIC, MEDICAL, OPTICAL, MEASURING AND CONTROLLING INSTRUMENTS AND APPARATUS.
COMPARING NOVEMBER 1992 WITH NOVEMBER 1991, THE IMPORT PRICES OF CAPITAL GOODS AND CONSUMER GOODS INCREASED BY 2% AND 1% RESPECTIVELY. HOWEVER, THE IMPORT PRICES OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMIMANUFACTURES; FUELS; AND FOODSTUFFS DECREASED BY 3%, 2% AND 1% RESPECTIVELY.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 3.
THE VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS OF FUELS AND CAPITAL GOODS INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY BY 54% AND 50% RESPECTIVELY TN NOVEMBER 1992 AS COMPARED WITH NOVEMBER 1991.
THAT OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES; CONSUMER GOODS; AND FOODSTUFFS REGISTERED INCREASES OF 17%, 16% AND 1% RESPECTIVELY.
/OVER THE ........
TUESDAY. FEBRUARY 9, 1993
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF RE-EXPORTS OF FUELS, CAPITAL GOODS AND CONSUMER GOODS INCREASED BY 4%, 2% AND 1% RESPECTIVELY.
THE RE-EXPORT PRICES OF FOODSTUFFS; AND RAW MATERIALS AND SEMIMANUFACTURES DECREASED BY 3% AND 2% RESPECTIVELY.
DETAILS OF THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE PUBLISHED IN THE NOVEMBER 1992 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG TRADE INDEX NUMBERS".
THE REPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE ON SALE AROUND FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 12) AT HK$6 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL; AND THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON THE 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI .
ENQUIRIES REGARDING REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION TO THIS REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG (TEL: 842 8802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE INDEXES TO I HE CENSUS AND STAT I ST H'S DEPARTMENT (TEL: 582 4918) .
/TABLE 1 ........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
5
TABLE 1 : CHANGES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY PRINCIPAL COMMODITY GROUP
COMPARING NOV 1992 COMPARING JAN-NOV 1992
WITH NOV 1991 WITH JAN-NOV 1991
UNIT UNIT
COMMODITY GROUP VALUE VALUE VOLUME VALUE VALUE VOLUME
% % % % % %
CLOTHING -6 6 -11 3 4 -1
TEXTILE FABRICS -10 * -10 -1 1 -1
TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD -16 -2 -14 -8 -2 -5
TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED ARTICLES -15 2 -16 -18 6 -23
RADIOS OF ALL KINDS -19 -9 -11 -28 -3 -25
ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS 62 -6 72 23 -5 30
FOOTWEAR -22 4 -24 -24 4 -26
METAL MANUFACTURES -9 -1 -9 4 3 1
METAL ORES AND SCRAP -7 -3 -4 1 -4 5
WATCHES AND CLOCKS -6 ♦ -7 -9 * -8
TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR ARTICLES -13 1 -14 -3 1 -5
DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES -49 1 -49 -36 1 -37
ALL COMMODITIES -1 2 -2 2 1 1
* LESS THAN 0.5%
/TABLE 2 .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
6
TABLE 2 : CHANGES IN IMPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY
COMPARING NOV 1992 COMPARING JAN-NOV 1992
WITH NOV 1991 WITH JAN-NOV 1991
UNIT UNIT
END-USE CATEGORY VALUE VALUE VOLUME VALUE VALUE VOLUME
% % % % X X
FOODSTUFFS 8 -1 9 9 1 9
CONSUMER GOODS 26 1 24 30 3 27
RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES 9 -3 13 13 -2 16
FUELS 13 -2 16 9 -9 19
CAPITAL GOODS 39 2 36 38 2 35
ALL COMMODITIES 20 -1 21 23 * 23
» LESS THAN 0.5%
/TABLE 3 .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
7
TABLE 3 : CHANGES IN RE-EXPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY
COMPARING NOV WITH NOV 1992 1991 COMPARING JAN-NOV 1992
WITH JAN-NOV 1991
END-USE CATEGORY VALUE UNIT VALUE VOLUME VALUE UNIT VALUE VOLUME
% % % % % %
FOODSTUFFS -1 -3 1 8 t 7
CONSUMER GOODS 16 1 16 31 2 28
RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES 15 -2 1 7 21 -2 23
FUELS 60 4 54 18 -4 23
CAPITAL GOODS 53 2 50 50 1 48
ALL COMMODITIES 21 ♦ 21 30 1 29
* LESS THAN 0.5%
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/8.........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
8
COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO WITNESS PROTECTION ♦ * * * *
THE COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO WITNESS PROTECTION WILL HOLD ITS FIRST PUBLIC HEARING NEXT MONDAY (FEBRUARY 15), A SPOKESMAN FOR THE COMMISSION SECRETARIAT ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY).
HE SAID THE HEARINGS WOULD BE HELD IN COURT NO. 4 OF THE SUPREME COURT AND THAT AFTER PRELIMINARY STATEMENTS MR BUI VAN XUAN WOULD BE THE FIRST WITNESS CALLED.
OTHER VIETNAMESE WITNESSES WERE EXPECTED TO TAKE UP MUCH OF THE FIRST WEEK OF HEARINGS. GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS WILL BE CALLED TO GIVE EVIDENCE THEREAFTER.
"IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE HEARINGS WILL CONTINUE TO THE END OF THE MONTH," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
------0-------
CHANCES TO EXPORT HK’S SERVICE TRADE
*****
HONG KONG’S SERVICE TRADE WILL CONTINUE TO HELP THE ECONOMY TO SHINE WELL INTO THE NEXT CENTURY.
THIS IS DESPITE THE DISPLACEMENT EFFECT OF THE OPENING UP OF THE CHINESE ECONOMY AND THE KEEN COMPETITION IT FACES FROM ITS ASIAN NEIGHBOURS.
THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE, MR DONALD TSANG, MADE THESE REMARKS WHEN ADDRESSING MEMBERS OF THE HONG KONG GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AT A LUNCHEON MEETING TODAY (TUESDAY).
MR TSANG SAID HE HAD FULL CONFIDENCE IN HONG KONG’S COMPETITIVE EDGE WHICH INCLUDED A GOOD PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT, THE AVAILABILITY OF WELL-EDUCATED PROFESSIONALS AND EXECUTIVES, A STRONG FINANCIAL BACKGROUND, THE RULE OF LAW AND THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO A FREE-ENTERPRISE POLICY.
MR TSANG SAID SOME COMPARED WHAT HONG KONG COULD BE TO CHINA TOMORROW TO WHAT NEW YORK TO THE UNITED STATES TODAY.
"THE TRUTH OF THE ANALOGY HAS YET TO BE TESTED BUT THE ECONOMIC LINK BETWEEN CHINA AND HONG KONG IS A POWERFUL ONE, AND IT SERVES TO BENEFIT BOTH SIDES," HE SAID.
THE TERM ’SERVICES’ USUALLY COVERS ACTIVITIES RANGING FROM BANKING AND INSURANCE, THROUGH TRANSPORT, TOURISM, CONSULTANCY, TELECOMMUNICATIONS, TO CONSTRUCTION, ACCOUNTANCY, FILMS AND TELEVISION AS WELL AS THE PROVISION OF LABOUR.
IN 1990, HONG KONG WAS THE WORLD'S I4TH LARGEST TRADER TN COMMERCIAL SERVICES.
"SERVICE IS ESTIMATED TO HAVE BROUGHT US A NET GAIN OF $40 BILLION LAST YEAR," MR TSANG SAID.
/AS THE .........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
9
AS THE SERVICE INDUSTRIES BECOME MORE SOPHISTICATED, AND WITH THE CONTINUED BOOM IN THE ASIAN-PACIFIC ECONOMIES, MR TSANG IS CONFIDENT THAT THERE ARE OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPORT THE SERVICES.
’’THE CONTINUOUS OPENING UP OF THE CHINESE MARKET HAS PLACED HONG KONG IN AN UNRIVALLED POSITION IN MARSHALLING THE ENORMOUS RESOURCES IN LABOUR, SKILL AND TECHNOLOGY SCATTERED AND UNTAPPED THROUGHOUT CHINA.
”IN THE NEXT 10 YEARS, I SEE A SYNERGY OF HONG KONG’S COMMERCIAL AND MARKETING CAPABILITY AND CHINA’S NEARLY BOUNDLESS RESOURCES WHICH WILL GENERATE FOR HONG KONG OPPORTUNITIES, PROFITS AND PROSPERITY IN THE EXPORT OF SERVICES, AT LEVELS WHICH FAR EXCEED THOSE THAT EXIST IN THE TRADE IN GOODS.
’’WHAT IS NEEDED IS VISION, COURAGE AND ENTERPRISE WHICH ARE NEVER IN SHORT SUPPLY IN HONG KONG,’’ MR TSANG SAID.
HE BELIEVED URUGUAY ROUND NEGOTIATIONS ON SERVICES AND OTHER REGIONAL INITIATIVES COULD CREATE AND SUSTAIN A FREE TRADE ENVIRONMENT CONDUCIVE TO THE EXPORTS OF OUR SERVICES.
A DAUNTING TASK OF THE URUGUAY ROUND (UR) OF MULTILATERAL TRADE TALKS LAUNCHED UNDER THE AUSPICES OF GATT IS TO CREATE A COMPREHENSIVE FRAMEWORK OF GENERAL RULES AND DISCIPLINES TO GOVERN INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN THESE HIGHLY DIVERSE ACTIVITIES, HE SAID.
THE ULTIMATE AIM IS TO ACHIEVE PROGRESSIVE LIBERALISATION THROUGH THE ELIMINATION OF DISCRIMINATORY MEASURES AND ACTIVE MARKET OPENING COMMITMENTS, HE EXPLAINED.
HONG KONG PARTICIPATES ACTIVELY TN THE SERVICES NEGOTIATIONS BEING CURRENTLY HELD IN GENEVA.
"AS A FREE TRADE ENTITY WHICH DOES NOT RELY ON POLITICAL OR MILITARY CLOUT, WE HAVE MUCH TO GAIN FROM A STRONG MULTILATERAL REGIME FOR TRADE IN SERVICES.
’’OUR GOALS IN THE SERVICES NEGOTIATIONS ARE TO ENSURE THAT THE RULES DEVISED ARE SOUND AND PRACTICAL AND TO DISMANTLE MARKET ACCESS PROBLEMS OUR BUSINESSES ARE FACING OVERSEAS,’’ MR TSANG ADDED.
HE PAID SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO THE HONG KONG COALITION OF SERVICE INDUSTRIES FOR THEIR INPUT IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE THESE GOALS.
AFTER YEARS OF INTENSIVE DISCUSSIONS, THE MAIN PROVISIONS OF A DRAFT GENERAL AGREEMENT ON TRADE IN SERVICES HAVE BEEN SET.
THE MAIN OBLIGATIONS DERIVED FROM THIS AGREEMENT ARE MOST-FAVOURED TREATMENT AND TRANSPARENCY, MEANING THAT A MEMBER CANNOT DISCRIMINATE BETWEEN MEMBERS AND INFORMATION ON MEASURES AFFECTING TRADE IN SERVICES SHOULD BE MADE PUBLICLY AVAILABLE.
OTHER PRINCIPAL PROVISIONS PROVIDE FOR THE EQUAL TREATMENT OF FOREIGN AND LOCAL SERVICE PROVIDERS AND MARKET ACCESS RULES.
/’’IF IMPLEMENTED.......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
10
”IF IMPLEMENTED, THE SERVICES AGREEMENT WILL BENEFIT HONG KONG BY INSTILLING GREATER ACCESS TO INFORMATION ON THE REGULATORY REGIMES OF OTHER PARTICIPATING COUNTRIES, AND BETTER MARKET ACCESS OPPORTUNITIES THROUGH COMMITMENTS BY OTHER PARTICIPANTS.
"HONG KONG HAS VERY FEW DIFFICULTIES IN COMPLYING WITH THE OBLIGATION AS WE HAVE FEW RESTRICTIONS IN PLACE,” MR TSANG SAID.
AS REGARDS THE PROSPECT FOR THE UR, MR TSANG ADMITTED THAT THE SLOW PROGRESS HAD CREATED MUCH UNCERTAINTY.
HOWEVER, HE SAID: "HONG KONG SEES THE SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF THE ROUND AS AN IMPORTANT STEP TOWARDS ECONOMIC PROGRESS AND THE MOST EFFECTIVE WEAPON TO COUNTER RECALCITRANT ECONOMIC RECESSION IN A GOOD PART OF THE DEVELOPED WORLD. HONG KONG IS COMMITTED TO IT.
"WE REMAIN HOPEFUL.
"THE BALL IS NOW IN THE COURTS OF BOTH SIDES OF THE ATLANTIC. THEY MUST SHOW THE NECESSARY POLITICAL WILL AND LEADERSHIP BE STEADFAST AGAINST VESTED DOMESTIC INTERESTS DEMANDING CHANGES TO THE DRAFT AGREEMENTS AND FURTHER DELAY, AND REVIVE THE NEGOTIATING PROCESS.
"IN THIS REGARD, WE SHALL WATCH WITH KEEN INTEREST THE MEETING BETWEEN THE EC TRADE COMMISSIONER, SIR LEON BRITTAN, AND THE NEWLY APPOINTED U.S. TRADE REPRESENTATIVE MR MICKEY KANTOR COMING THURSDAY," HE SAID.
-----0------
ZAIRE TRAVEL ADVICE *****
ON THE ADVICE OF THE FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE (FCO), THE DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) IN VIEW OF THE CURRENT INTERNAL SECURITY SITUATION, WITH SOME AREAS UNDER EMERGENCY LAW, VISITORS ARE ADVISED NOT TO TRAVEL TO ZAIRE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
PEOPLE WHO ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THEIR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES IN ZAIRE MAY CONTACT THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT ON TEL 829 3075 OR 829 3076 DURING OFFICE HOURS, AND ON TEL 543 1958 AFTER OFFICE HOURS.
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/Il ........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
11
AUCTION OF LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD ANOTHER AUCTION OF LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS ON SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 13) AT 10 AM AT THE CITY HALL RECITAL HALL.
A TOTAL OF 40 LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR BIDDING. THEY ARE:
FB375 FB1018 FB6686 FB1398
BC7960 »CK7 ♦ 3311 AS4168
FB9789 FB637 FA8881 FB1007
♦FF9000 FA911 FB182 ♦ FF54
FB3168 »FF878 »FG58 FB520
AA449 FB896 FB8183 AW557
FB690 FA1228 EZ9369 FB4700
♦ BX16 ♦ ER5 ♦FF2000 ♦FF567
FB2880 FB8488 FB2218 FB8144
FA528 FA366 FA352 FB1274
♦ SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK (NOT TRANSFERABLE)
SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS MUST PAY BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.
A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN REMINDED BIDDERS THAT THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK WOULD BE ASSIGNED ONLY TO A VEHICLE REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE AUCTION.
THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION MUST BE PRODUCED IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE AUCTION IF THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK IS TO BE REGISTERED UNDER THE NAME OF BODY CORPORATE.
PROCEEDS OF THE AUCTION, AFTER DEDUCTION OF EXPENSES INCURRED, WILL AS USUAL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND.
THE COMING AUCTION WILL BE THE 188TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973.
-----0------
POP CONCERT TO SPREAD ♦ * ♦
FIGHT-CRIME MESSAGES * ♦
A POP CONCERT TO PUT ACROSS FIGHT-CRIME AND AN'I I-DRUG MESSAGES WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 13) NIGHT AT QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM, WAN CHAI.
JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE WAN < HA I DISTRK I 1'IGHI (RIME COMMITTEE (DFCC) AND RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG (RTHKI AND SUPPORTED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICE, THE CONCERT WILL MARK THE END OF A SERIES OF FIGHT-CRIME ACTIVITIES HELD IN THE IINANCIAL YEAR 1992/93.
/ENTITLED "WAN .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
12
ENTITLED "WAN CHAI DISTRICT FIGHT-CRIME AND ANTI-NARCOTICS ROMANTIC CONCERT", IT WILL FEATURE PERFORMANCES BY FAYE WONG, HACKEN LEE, VIVIAN CHOW, CHEUNG WAI-KIN AND ANDY HUI. THE HOSTS WILL BE DISC JOCKEYS MICHAEL LEUNG AND SARA LEE.
THE CONCERT WILL BE BROADCAST LIVE ON RTHK’S RADIO 2 BETWEEN 8.30 PM TO 10 PM.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICER, MR PETER MANN; POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR LEE MING-KWAI; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MRS PEGGY LAM; ACTING COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, MS ANISSA WONG; CENTRAL FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE MEMBER, MRS MIRIAM LAU AND ACTOR-DI RECTOR, JACKY CHAN.
A LIMITED NUMBER OF FREE TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE’S PUBLIC ENQUIRIES SERVICE CENTRE ON GROUND FLOOR, 2 O’BRIEN ROAD, WAN CHAI.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 575 2477 AND 835 1970.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CONCERT FROM 7 PM TO 10 PM ON SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 13) AT QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM, 18 OI KWAN ROAD, WAN ('HAI.
--------o------------
UNAUTHORISED BUILDING TO BE CLOSED
*****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE THE UNAUTHORISED SINGLE-STOREY STRUCTURE AT THE SIDE LANE OF 20 SHELL STREET TN NORTH POINT, SO THAT IT CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND THE PUBLIC.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON APRIL 15 WAS POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY (TUESDAY).
THE DEMOLITION WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START AS SOON AS THE CLOSURE ORDER IS ISSUED.
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/13 ........
13
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRE
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON TUESDAY (FEBRUARY 9) UP TO 4.30 PM ♦ » ♦ ♦ ♦
1. STUDYING INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM THE LONDON OFFICE ON THE TRAFALGAR SQUARE ARRANGEMENTS.
2. STUDYING FURTHER REPRESENTATIONS RECEIVED FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
3. CORRESPONDENCE.
-----0---------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS *****
TENDER DATE
PAPER ON OFFER
ISSUE NUMBER
AMOUNT APPLIED
AMOUNT ALLOTTED
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED
PRO RATA RATIO
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD
9 FEB 93
EF BILLS
Q306
HK$2,490 MN
HK$1,000 MN
3.09 PCT
3.09 PCT ABOUT 87 PCT
3.12 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDER TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 15 FEBRUARY 1993 -
TENDER DATE 15 FEB 93 16 FEB 93 16 FEB 93
PAPER ON OFFER GOVT BOND EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER 2502 Q307 H358
ISSUE DATE 16 FEB 93 17 FEB 93 17 FEB 93
MATURITY DATE 16 FEB 95 19 MAY 93 18 AUG 93
TENOR 2 YEARS 91 DAYS 182 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HK$500+100 MN HK$1,000+200 MN HK$400+80 MN
COUPON 4.75 PCT
- - 0
/I* ........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1993
14
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
NET INJECTION/WTTHDRAWAL TODAY
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 115.2
1 , 400
+ 1 00
1 ,500
NIE
NIL
1 ,500
♦-0.1* 9.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.66 PCT 12 MONTHS 2402 5.50 101.91 3.61
1 MONTH 3.12 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 101.96 3.94
3 MONTHS 3.06 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.30 4.21
6 MONTHS 3.17 PCT 21 MONTHS 241 1 4.625 100.28 4.50
12 MONTHS 3.66 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 22,751 MN
CLOSED 9 FEBRUARY 1993
-----0------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL:
SHW IN MOTION DEBATE ON CHILDREN TRAUMA ....................... 1
SHW IN ADJOURNMENT DEBATE ON AIDS ............................. 4
BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION BILL INTRODUCED .............. 8
AUDIT (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 ................................... 9
LEGCO TO ELECT PRESIDENT ON FEBRUARY 19 ...................... 10
GOVT OPEN-MINDED ON CHINESE TITLE FOR CHIROPRACTORS .......... 10
NO SECRET DEALS ON 1994/95 ELECTIONS ......................... 11
SCREENING OF TRAVELLERS FOR HIV CONTRARY TO WHO'S ADVICE .. 11
OPTIONS TO HANDLE MUNICIPAL WASTE TO BE STUDIED .............. 12
AIRPORT WORKS NO GREAT EFFECT ON FISH SUPPLY ................. 13
LAWS ON INDUSTRIAL DISPUTES UNDER REVIEW ..................... 14
FURTHER CONTROL ON PROJECTIONS FROM BUILDINGS NOT NEEDED .. 14
WAYS SOUGHT TO MAKE LEGAL SERVICES MORE ACCESSIBLE ........... 14
IMPORTANCE OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY REAFFIRMED ................... 15
OVER 350 COMPLETE RETRAINING COURSES ......................... 16
/POLL TO .......
POLL TO SEEK HA STAFF VIEWS .................................. 17
NO PLAN TO INCREASE NUMBER OF TRAFFIC WARDENS ................ 18
LAW REFORM COMMISSION'S REPORT BEING CONSIDERED .............. 18
GROWTH IN PRIVATE CAR FLEET .................................. 19
EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES FOR FISHERMEN UNDER REVIEW .............. 20
NO EASY SOLUTION TO CONTINUOUS OCCUPATION OF PARKING SPACES 20
ELECTRIC SUPPLY WILL NOT BE UPGRADED TO 240 VOLTS ............ 21
RESIDENCE RESTRICTION FOR PUBLIC HOUSING TO STAY ............. 21
MEASURES TO RELIEVE ROAD CONGESTION .......................... 21
SELECTION OF LDC JOINT VENTURE PARTNERS EXPLAINED ............ 22
NO CHANGE IN COUNTRY PARK LAND USE ........................... 22
MOTION ON TRAUMA TO CHILDREN PASSED .......................... 23
PROPERTY REVIEW 1993 ........................................... 24
GOVERNOR TO RESUME WORK ON MONDAY .............................. 26
ADDITIONAL LIQUIDITY INJECTED INTO INTERBANK MARKET ............ 27
GOVT TO CONTROL PUBLICATION OF FILMS AS VIDEOS AND LASER DISCS ......................................................... 27
SES ON ECONOMY ................................................. 28
WORKSHOP FOR IMPLEMENTING ILO CONVENTION ON CONSTRUCTION SAFETY ........................................................ 29
FINANCE COMMITTEE TO MEET ON FRIDAY ............................ 30
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY .......................................... 30
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
31
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THE SPEECH BY THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, IN THE MOTION DEBATE OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON CHILDREN TRAUMA:
MR DEPUTY PRESIDENT,
THE SOCIAL ISSUES RAISED BY HONOURABLE MEMBERS DURING THIS DEBATE HAVE BEEN WIDE-RANGING, INSIGHTFUL AND EDUCATIONAL. A NUMBER OF SUGGESTIONS WERE BOTH INTERESTING AND IMPORTANT. I WOULDN’T DO JUSTICE TO THESE SUGGESTIONS BY PROVIDING A QUICK OFF-THE-CUFF RESPONSE BECAUSE I THINK EACH SUGGESTION NEEDS CAREFUL ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATION. SO TN MY REPLY I SHALL CONCENTRATE ON BROAD ISSUES AND ATTEMPT TO COVER AREAS INADEQUATELY COVERED IN THIS VERY COMPREHENSIVE DEBATE, AND/OR TO CORRECT SOME ERRONEOUS STATEMENTS AS TO FACT. FAR BE IT FOR ME TO BE SO BOLD OR SO ARROGANT AS TO SUGGEST THAT WE IN THE GOVERNMENT ALONE KNOW THE ANSWER OR HAVE THE CURE.
PARENTS WHO ARE THE CLOSEST AND THE DEAREST TO THEIR CHILDREN N THE VAST MAJORITY OF CASES DO CARE. BUT 1 DO AGREE THAT WE SHOULD >0 OUR UTMOST TO HELP THEM TO CARE, TO PROVIDE THE PARENTS WITH THE SUPPORTS THAT THEY NEED. FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION IS A FOCAL PRIORITY OF OCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT’S EDUCATION INITIATIVE.
A NUMBER OF INFORMATION BOOKLETS HAVE BEEN PUBLISHED TO EDUCATE I'ARENTS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF HOME SAFETY. THEY CARRY THEMES SUCH AS "A SAFE HOME IS A HAPPY HOME”, "SAFETY BEGINS AT HOME" AND "SAFETY PARTS AT HOME: HOW TO HAVE A SAFE HOME LIFE". NOW THESE SEEMINGLY IMPLISTIC MESSAGES ARE IMPORTANT AND SHOULD BE REPEATED AND NOTED.
WHILST PARENTS SHOULD NO DOUBT LEARN HOW TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS AT HOME, GOVERNMENT WILL CONTINUE TO MOUNT PUBLICITY CAMPAIGNS ON HOME SAFETY. SOME NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS ARE ALSO WORKING ON INJURY PREVENTION IN CHILDREN.
FOR CASES OF HOME ACCIDENTS THAT COULD HAVE MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL REPERCUSSIONS SUCH AS EXTENSIVE BURNS, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSISTANCE WILL BE PROVIDED TO THE CHILD BY QUALIFIED MEDICAL STAFF. THE MEDICAL SOCIAL WORKERS WILL ALSO BE NOTIFIED AND, DEPENDING ON THE SEVERITY OF INDIVIDUAL CASES, PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE FROM A CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST OR A CHILD PSYCHIATRIST WILL BE SOUGHT. COUNSELLING WILL BE PROVIDED SEPARATELY TO THE PARENTS AS TO THE PROPER WAYS OF PROVIDING EMOTIONAL SUPPORT TO THE CHILD, COMPLEMENTED BY FOLLOW-UP SESSIONS TO MONITOR THE PROGRESS OF RECOVERY.
A NUMBER OF FATAL ACCIDENTS INVOLVING CHILDREN LEFT UNSUPERVISED AT HOME AWAKEN OUR COMMUNITY CONSCIENCE. ONE DEATH IS ALWAYS ONE DEATH TOO MANY! THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS ARE PROMOTING ENERGETICALLY THE CONCEPT OF MUTUAL HELP AMONG FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN. FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS ARE ENCOURAGED TO GROUP TOGETHER TO HELP ONE ANOTHER.
/WITH THE ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
2
WITH THE INCREASING NUMBER OE MOTHERS IN FULL-TIME EMPLOYMENT, THERE IS A NEED FOR DAY CARE FACILITIES FOR YOUNG CHILDREN WHO CANNOT BE CARED FOR BY PARENTS DURING THE DAY. NOW CONTRARY TO THE COMMENTS MADE BY SOME MEMBERS, WE DO HAVE CRECHES, WE DO HAVE NURSERIES APART FROM CHILD CARE CENTRES. INDEED THE PROVISION OF DAY CRECHES HAS BEEN INCREASING AND DAY NURSERIES WILL BE EXPANDED. AS ANNOUNCED BY THE GOVERNOR IN HIS OCTOBER ADDRESS, SECURE FUNDING WILL BE PROVIDED TO IMPLEMENT THE TARGETS FOR CHILD CARE FACILITIES.
AND I KNOW FOR A FACT THAT THE IDEA OF WORK-BASED CHILD CARE CENTRES IS PROMOTED AMONGST INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL EMPLOYERS. I MYSELF FOR ONE AM PROMOTING ONE FOR CIVIL SERVANTS. THE AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROGRAMME AND THE OCCASIONAL CHILD CARE SERVICE WILL ALSO BE EXPANDED.
SOME MEMBERS HAVE SUGGESTED THE INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION TO PREVENT PARENTS FROM LEAVING THEIR CHILDREN UNATTENDED AT HOME. THIS HAS BEEN DEBATED ON MANY OCCASIONS, AND ON MANY OCCASIONS I HAVE BEEN SORELY TEMPTED TO SUPPORT THIS IDEA. A CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON MEASURES TO PREVENT CHILDREN FROM BEING LEFT UNATTENDED AT HOME WAS INDEED DISCUSSED IN OCTOBER. THE PUBLIC RESPONSE DURING THE TIME WAS THAT LEGISLATION SHOULD NOT BE INTRODUCED TO PROHIBIT PARENTS FROM LEAVING THEIR CHILDREN AT HOME ALONE. THE GENERAL CONSENSUS WAS THAT PUBLIC EDUCATION SHOULD BE PROMOTED TO DEAL WITH THE PROBLEM CERTAIN AT THIS STAGE OF OUR DEVELOPMENT. MORE CHILD CARE CENTRES AND SERVICES SHOULD BE PROVIDED. I SUPPORT THIS CONCLUSION.
APART FROM HOME SAFETY, PARENTS SHOULD ALSO PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION IN CHOOSING TOYS FOR CHILDREN AS SUGGESTED BY THE HONOURABLE MR WONG. THE TOYS AND CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS SAFETY ORDINANCE WAS PASSED BY THIS COUNCIL IN NOVEMBER LAST YEAR. THE PURPOSE OF THAT ORDINANCE IS TO PROVIDE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR TOYS AND CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS IN ORDER TO PROTECT CHILDREN FROM UNSAFE TOYS AND PRODUCTS. HOWEVER, ALTHOUGH THIS IS A VERY IMPORTANT STEP FORWARD, PARENTS MUST REMAIN VIGILANT IN CHOOSING TOYS AND PRODUCTS FOR THEIR CHILDREN.
OUTSIDE THE HOME, CHILDREN ARE ALSO EXPOSED TO POTENTIAL DANGERS. ESCALATORS, ELECTRIC GATES CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUNG CHILDREN. PARENTS SHOULD ALWAYS KEEP AN EYE ON THEIR SMALL CHILDREN WHEN GOING OUT WITH THEM AND SHOULD NEVER LEAVE THEM TO PLAY AROUND UNSUPERVISED. PARENTS SHOULD ALSO PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO ROAD SAFETY. A LOT OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS INVOLVED CHILDREN PLAYING IN THE STREET OR TRAVELLING IN A CAR. IN 1990, 1991 AND 1992, THERE WERE SOME 2493, 2631 AND 2533 CHILDREN AGED 14 AND BELOW INJURED, AND SOME VERY SERIOUSLY, IN ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS. I REGRET THAT THIS VERY IMPORTANT ASPECT WAS NOT COVERED IN THIS COMPREHENSIVE DEBATE.
/TURNING NOW .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
3
TURNING NOW TO CHILI) ABUSE AND NEGLECT, SOME CHILDREN ARE HURT NOT BECAUSE OF ACCIDENTS, BUT AS A RESULT OF DELIBERATE ABUSE AND NEGLECT. THE PROTECTION OF WOMEN AND JUVENILES (AMENDMENT) BILL WAS INTRODUCED INTO THIS COUNCIL IN APRIL LAST YEAR. AND I AM STILL WAITING FOR THE PASSAGE OF THIS BILL. THE BILL SEEKS TO GIVE BETTER PROTECTION TO CHILDREN BY WIDENING THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH A CHILD MAY BE CONSIDERED TO BE IN NEED OF CARE OR PROTECTION. THE EFFECTS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE AND NEGLECT WILL BE INCLUDED AS GROUNDS FOR CONSIDERING A CHILD TO BE IN NEED OF CARE OR PROTECTION UNDER THE ORDINANCE. THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE WILL HAVE MORE FLEXIBLE POWERS OF INTERVENTION AND INVESTIGATION WITHOUT ALWAYS HAVING FIRST TO REMOVE A CHILD FROM HOME. I HOPE SINCERELY THAT THIS BILL CAN BE PASSED IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
THE CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES UNIT OF SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT WILL CONTINUE TO PROVIDE INTENSIVE CASEWORK SERVICES FOR THE PROTECTION OF CHILDREN WHOSE SAFETY OR WELFARE IS ENDANGERED BY ABUSE OR NEGLECT OF THEIR PARENTS OR CARERS.
APART FROM SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES, SPECIAL PROCEDURES HAVE ALSO BEEN ESTABLISHED IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS TO CATER FOR TRAUMATIZED CHILDREN. ALL SUSPECTED CASES OF CHILD ABUSE ARE BROUGHT IMMEDIATELY TO THE ATTENTION OF THE POLICE, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, AND THE CONSULTANT DOCTOR IN CHARGE FOR APPROPRIATE ACTIONS. CO-OPERATION WILL BE SOUGHT FROM THE PARENTS FOR THE CHILD TO BE ADMITTED FOR TREATMENT OR OBSERVATION. FOR SUCH CASES, THE HOSPITAL STAFF CONCERNED WILL EXERCISE THEIR DISCRETION ACCORDING TO THE PREVAILING SOCIAL RATHER THAN MEDICAL INDICATIONS. SHOULD THE PARENTS REFUSE TO GRANT CONSENT FOR THE ADMISSION, ASSISTANCE WILL BE SOUGHT FROM THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT TO INVOKE RELEVANT PROVISIONS UNDER THE PROTECTION OF WOMEN AND JUVENILE ORDINANCE. APART FROM MEDICAL TREATMENT, COUNSELLING AND GUIDANCE BY MEDICAL STAFF WILL BE PROVIDED TO MINIMIZE THE POTENTIAL DANGER AND DAMAGE TO THE CHILD’S PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT.
SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT PROVIDES VARIOUS SUPPORT SERVICES TO YOUNG PEOPLE AND TO FAMILIES. THERE ARE HOTLINES. HOTLINE SERVICES, MANNED BY PROFESSIONAL WORKERS, SOCIAL WORKERS, RENDERS IMMEDIATE COUNSELLING SERVICE OVER THE PHONE AND ANSWERS ENQUIRIES ON WELFARE SERVICES FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC. IMMEDIATE OUTREACHING SERVICE AND CRISIS INTERVENTION ARE PROVIDED BY SOCIAL WORKERS FROM FAMILY SERVICES CENTRES OR MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE UNITS. OTHER HOTLINE SERVICES ARE PROVIDED BY NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS.
CASEWORKERS OF THE 30 FAMILY SERVICES CENTRES HELP YOUNG PEOPLE TO COPE WITH PROBLEMS AND PROVIDE COUNSELLING TO PERSONS UNDER STRESS OR WITH SUICIDAL TENDENCIES. COUNSELLING BY THE DEPARTMENT'S CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS IS ALSO AVAILABLE TO THOSE WHO NEED IT.
SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKERS PROVIDE COUNSELLING AND GUIDANCE TO STUDENTS WITH PERSONAL DIFFICULTIES AND FAMILY PROBLEMS. GROUP DISCUSSIONS, SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS AND TALKS ARE ORGANIZED FOR STUDENTS TO PROMOTE SELF-AWARENESS AND TO HELP THEM COPE WITH STRESS AND PROBLEMS. WE ARE EXPANDING IN ALL THESE AREAS IN ACCORDANCE WITH OUR PLAN.
/FURTHERMORE, FAMILY ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
If
FURTHERMORE, FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION PROGRAMMES HAVE BEEN ORGANIZED TO HELP YOUNG PEOPLE TO HANDLE FRUSTRATIONS AND TO COPE WITH CRISIS. PROGRAMMES ARE ALSO DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION AND HELP PARENTS TO COMMUNICATE WITH THEIR CHILDREN AND TO HELP THEM DEAL WITH THE EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS. AND I KNOW aLSO THAT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAS TAKEN A SERIES OF MEASURES STRENGTHEN TEACHERS’ PROFESSIONAL SKILLS TO DEAL WITH STUDENTS WITH PROBLEMS. PARENTS ARE ALSO TAUGHT TO HELP THETIv CHILDREN TO DEAL WITH PROBLEMS. STUDENTS THEMSELVES ARE TaUGHT SKILLS ON COPING WITH STRESS AND PROBLEMS. SEMINARS AND WORKSHOPS HAVE ALSO BEEN ORGANIZED AND RESOURCE MATERIALS PREPARED.
THIS IS NOT ENOUGH. WE NEED TO DO MORE AND I AM GRATEFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITY OF LISTENING TO MEMBERS’ SUGGESTIONS AT THE DEBATE.
IN THE FINAL ANALYSIS, I AM SURE PARENTS MUST FACE UP TO THE RESPONSIBILITY OF PARENTHOOD. 1 AM SURE THE MAJORITY OF PARENTS DO. WHEN PARENTS NEED HELP, THE COMMUNITY MUST HELP THEM TO DO SO. HOWEVER, IN SAD CASES OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT BY IRRESPONSIBLE PARENTS, THE GOVERNMENT HAS TO INTERVENE. WE DON’T WANT THAT, OR DO WE! MAY BE WE DO.
I AM GRATEFUL FOR THIS DEBATE. HONOURABLE MEMBERS HAVE REASONED WELL BUT AS A MODERN PHILOSOPHER PUT IT, "WE DO LOVE AND REASON, LOVE IS THE GREATER". I’D LIKE TO DRAW UPON THE HONOURABLE ELSIE TU’S STATEMENT, BECAUSE THE IMPORTANCE OF THE NEED FOR EMOTIONAL SUPPORT SHOULD NOT BE UNDERESTIMATED. I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO ECHO THE HONOURABLE SAMUEL WONG’S CALL FOR LOVE, A VERY SIMPLE WORD, BUT HOW IMPORTANT. I’D LIKE TO END WITH A QUOTE WHICH SAYS LOVE IS ALL WE HAVE AND THE ONLY WAY THAT WE CAN HELP EACH OTHER. LET US LOVE OUR CHILDREN IN OUR MANY DIFFERENT WAYS.
THANK YOU, MR DEPUTY PRESIDENT.
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FOLLOWING IS THE SPEECH BY SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, AT THE ADJOURNMENT DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON AIDS IN HONG KONG:
MR DEPUTY PRESIDENT,
I SHARE MANY OF THE CONCERNS EXPRESSED BY HONOURABLE MEMBERS IN THIS ADJOURNMENT DEBATE.
IN THE SPACE OF JUST OVER 10 YEARS, AIDS HAS DEVELOPED INTO A WORLDWIDE EPIDEMIC, CLAIMING THE LIVES OF HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN ALL CONTINENTS. IN SOME PARTS OF THE WORLD, WHOLE FAMILIES AND VILLAGES HAVE BEEN DEVASTATED. COUNTRIES ARE LOSING THEIR MOST PRODUCTIVE PEOPLE, MEN AND WOMEN IN THE PRIME OF LIFE, THE MAINSTAYS OF THE ECONOMY AND THE SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE, NOT TO MENTION THE SOLE SUPPORTERS OF THE VERY YOUNG AND THE ELDERLY PEOPLE. THE TERM "AIDS ORPHAN" HAS BECOME PART OF OUR VOCABULARY.
/THE RAMIFICATIONS .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
5
THE RAMIFICATIONS OF THE DISEASE ARE EXTENSIVE AND GO BEYOND
THE HEALTH OF THE INDIVIDUAL. IT THREATENS THE .VERY FABRIC OF SOCIETY. AS ONE TELEVISION ADVERTISEMENT HAS PUT IT,
"AIDS IS A POLITICAL CRISIS."
I AM GRATEFUL THAT MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL HAVE FOCUSED ON THIS ISSUE.
IN RESPECT OF THE QUESTIONS ASKED EARLIER BY THE HONOURABLE TAM YIU-CHUNG, I HAVE NOTHING TO ADD TO THE ANSWERS ALREADY GIVEN. SO I SHALL FOCUS TONIGHT IN MY CONCLUDING REMARKS ON THE MANY BROAD AREAS OF FOCUS. I SHALL RESPOND TO THE CALL FOR OPENNESS. AIDS REMAINS V^RY MUCH A MYSTERIOUS DISEASE IN HONG KONG. IT IS SHROUDED BY FEAR iND MISUNDERSTANDING, PREJUDICE AND DISCRIMINATION. WHILST SCIENTISTS HAVE STILL TO DEVELOP A VACCINE OR A CURE FOR THE DISEASE, THE SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS MADE IN MEDICAL RESEARCH OVER THE PAST DECADE HAS AT LEAST ENABLED U.S TO HAVE A BUTTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE AIDS SYNDROME.
WE KNOW TH\T AIDS IS CAUSED BY INFECTION OF THE BODY BY A RETROVIRUS KNOWN AS HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIFNCV VIRUS (HIV). IT HAS A LONG INCUBATION PERIOD DURING WHICH THE VIRUS REMAINS DORMANT INSIDE THE CARRIER’S BODY. AFTER A VARIABLE PERIOD OF TIME, THE VIRUS MAY START GRADUALLY TO DAMAGE THE BODY'S DEFENCE SYSTEM, MAKING THE PERSON SUSCEPTIBLE TO REPEATED SERIOUS INFECTIONS AND CANCERS, FROM WHICH THE PERSON ULTIMATELY DIES. APPROXIMATELY HALF OF THE INFECTED INDIVIDUALS WOULD DEVELOP SYMTOMS DUE TO AIDS OVER A PERIOD OF SOME TEN YEARS WHILE THE REMAINDER MAY STILL BE SYMTOM-FREE AND REMAIN NORMAL IN THEIR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CAPACITY.
SCIENTISTS HAVE SUCCESSFULLY ISOLATED THE VIRUS AND ESTABLISHED THE PATHOGENESIS OF THE DISEASE. ESSENTIALLY, HIV IS TRANSMITTED MAINLY THROUGH BLOOD, SEMAN AND VAGINAL SECRETION. THUS, THE MAIN ROUTES OF INFECTION ARE THROUGH SEXUAL INTERCOURSE, THROUGH TRANSFUSION OF CONTAMINATED BLOOD OR BLOOD PRODUCTS, THROUGH SHARING OF NEEDLES FOR DRUG INJECTION AND PER I NATALLY FROM AN INFECTFD MOTHER TO HER OFFSPRING.
OTHER BODY FLUIDS SUCH AS SALIVA, SWEAT OR TEARS HAVE NOT BEEN FOUND TO TRANSMIT HIV. HIV IS VERY FRAGILE AND CANNOT SURVIVE OUTSIDE THE HUMAN BODY. HENCE, A PERSON CANNOT GET AIDS FROM NORMAL DAY-TO-DAY CONTACTS WITH IIIV-1NFECTED PERSONS, SUCH AS FROM SHAKING HANDS OR HUGGING, HAVING MEALS TOGETHER, WORKING IN THE SAME OFFICE OR FACTORY, OR ATTENDING THE SAME SCHOOL.
IN OTHER WORDS, I EMPHASIZE, YOU CANNOT GET AIDS JUST BY BEING CLOSE TO PEOPLE. I AM MENTIONING ALL THESE BECAUSE THESE ARE SCIENTIFIC FACTS, AND YET STILL NOT VERY WELL KNOWN IN HONG KONG.
SO, HOW OFTEN, HOW OFTEN INDEED, HAVE WE HEARD SUGGESTIONS THAT INNOCENT CHILDREN WHO HAVE UNFORTUNATELY BEEN INFECTED BY HIV SHOULD BE KEPT AWAY FROM THEIR SCHOOLS? SUCH PREJUDICE IS REGRETTABLE. ON THE OTHER HAND, THEY DO UNDERLINE THE NEED FOR STEPPING UP PUBLIC EDUCATION ON AIDS, TO REMOVE MISCONCEPTIONS AND TO CHANGE COMMUNITY ATTITUDES. WE ALL HAVE A PART TO PLAY.
/IN THE .........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
6
IN THE ABSENCE OF A VACCINE OR A CURE FOR AIDS, PREVENTION AND EDUCATION REMAIN THE MOST EFFECTIVE MEASURES AGAINST THE SPREAD OF THIS EPIDEMIC. IN LINE WITH WHO’S GLOBAL STRATEGY, HONG KONG GOVERNMENT’S KEY OBJECTIVES ARE :
(A) TO PREVENT INFECTION WITH HIV;
(B) TO REDUCE THE PERSONAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT OF HIV INFECTION; AND
(C) TO MOBILIZE AND UNIFY PUBLIC AND COMMUNITY EFFORTS AGAINST AIDS .
FROM THE VERY BEGINNING I THINK, WE IN THE GOVERNMENT HAVE ADOPTED A PROACTIVE APPROACH. EVEN BEFORE THE FIRST AIDS CASE WAS DIAGNOSED IN HONG KONG, AN EXPERT COMMITTEE ON AIDS WAS FORMED IN 1984 TO LOOK INTO THE POTENTIAL PROBLEMS AND TO DEVELOP A STRATEGY OF CONTROL. IN MAY THE FOLLOWING YEAR, A DEDICATED SCIENTIFIC WORKING GROUP WAS FORMED TO SUPERVISE THE SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM ON AIDS AND TO ESTABLISH GUIDELINES FOR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS IN PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF HIV INFECTION. IN 1985, A COUNSELLING SERVICE FOR HIV INFECTED PERSONS WAS PUT INTO OPERATION. THE HONG KONG RED CROSS ALSO STARTED SCREENING ALL DONATED BLOOD TO GUARD AGAINST HIV CONTAMINATION. MOREOVER, THE HIV ANTI-BODY TEST BECAME GENERALLY AVAILABLE THROUGH THE VIRUS LABORATORY IN QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL. THROUGH THE AIDS COUNSELLING AND HEALTH EDUCATION SERVICES, THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH NOW CONDUCTS AN AVERAGE OF SOME 3,000 HIV TESTS ON SAMPLED BLOOD ALONE. IT ALSO PROVIDES MEDICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL COUNSELLING FOR CLIENTS, ORGANIZES SUPPORT GROUP FOR PATIENTS, RUNS A SPECIALIST CLINIC FOR HIV POSITIVE PATIENTS AND OPERATES AN AIDS HOTLINE FOR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC. FURTHERMORE, IT ORGANIZES EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY PROGRAMMES AIMED AT ENHANCING PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE ON THE DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF THE DISEASE, PARTICULARLY ON THE WAYS OF PREVENTING INFECTION. IN ADDITION TO APIS AND EXHIBITIONS, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH STAFF CONDUCTS HEALTH TALKS IN THE CLINICS AND SCHOOLS AND ALSO, IN COLLABORATION WITH THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, PRODUCED GUIDELINES AND TEACHING KITS FOR SCHOOLS.
FOR THE BETTER COORDINATION OF THE MANY ACTIVITIES ORGANIZED BY GOVERNMENT AND BY COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS, TWO YEARS AGO, AN ADVISORY COUNCIL ON AIDS WAS SET UP. LATER, THE HONG KONG AIDS FOUNDATION LIMITED WAS ESTABLISHED, RECEIVING MONEY FROM THE GOVERNMENT AND THE JOCKEY CLUB TO FURTHER ENCOURAGE COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AS PART OF OUR OVERALL STRATEGY TO COMBAT AIDS.
IT CAN BE SEEN, THEREFORE, THAT MUCH HAVE BEEN DONE OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS. HOWEVER, MUCH MORE, MUCH MUCH MORE NEED TO BE DONE. WE IN HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH AND THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAVE THEREFORE DEDICATED THIS YEAR TO BE THE YEAR OF CONCENTRATED CAMPAIGN AGAINST AIDS. WE ARE PUTTING IN PLACE PLANS FOR A MAJOR PUBLICITY AND EDUCATION CAMPAIGN FOR SUSTAINING THIS EFFORT IN THE COMING YEARS.
/OUR STRATEGY .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
7
OUR STRATEGY CALLS FOR A BROAD-BASED MULTISECTORAL RESPONSE BY GOVERNMENT AND HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS, CHARITABLE AND VOLUNTARY ORGANIZATIONS, AND THE MEDIA AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR AS A WHOLE. IN OTHER WORDS, EVERYBODY IN HONG KONG. WE NEED TO CULTIVATE A SYMPATHETIC SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT WHICH IS VITAL TO THE EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF AIDS PREVENTION PROGRAMMES AND HUMANE CARE OF INDIVIDUALS. WE APPRECIATE THE CRITICAL ROLE OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS IN PROMOTING PREVENTION OF AIDS THROUGH SAFER SEXUAL PRACTICE AS WE SEE ALMOST EVERY NIGHT ON TELEVISION, IN PROVIDING SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE WITH HIV/AIDS AND IN COMBATING STIGMATISATION AND DISCRIMINATION. WE BELIEVE THAT HONG KONG COULD PLAY A LEADERSHIP ROLE IN THE COMBAT AGAINST AIDS IN THIS PART OF THE WORLD IF WE GET UP, ACT TOGETHER AND ACT QUICKLY. TN THIS CONTEXT, I HAVE TAKEN VERY CAREFUL NOTE OF MEMBERS’ ADVICE AND YOUR VIEWS WHICH ARE VERY HELPFUL AND I WILL TAKE EACH AND EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM INTO ACCOUNT IN FINALIZING OUR PLANS FOR FURTHER ACTION.
I ECHO MEMBERS’ CONCERN FOR THE PLIGHT OF THE HAEMOPHILIACS WHO HAVE UNFORTUNATELY BEEN INFECTED BY HIV THROUGH BLOOD AND BLOOD PRODUCT TRANSFUSION PRIOR TO 1985. I THINK WE ALL KNOW THAT TO THE STATE OF MEDICAL KNOWLEDGE AT THAT TIME, BLOOD PRODUCTS USED PRIOR TO 1985 WERE NOT TREATED AGAINST CONTAMINATION P.Y HIV ALTHOUGH THEY WERE STERILIZED IN ACCORDANCE WITH INTERNATIONALLY ACCEPTED STANDARD AT THAT TIME.
ALTHOUGH, AS A MATTER OF LAW, GOVERNMENT IS NOT LEGALLY LIABLE TO PAY COMPENSATION, WE IN THE GOVERNMENT, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY INCLUDED, WE HAVE GREAT SYMPATHY FOR THESE HAEMOPHILIACS WHO HAVE TRAGICALLY BECOME INFECTED BY HIV THROUGH BLOOD AND BLOOD PRODUCT TRANSFUSION PRIOR TO 1985. I HAVE, LAST MONTH, APPOINTED A SPECIAL STUDY GROUP TO EXAMINE THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THEIR INFECTION AND TO RECOMMEND ANY SPECIAL CAUSE OF ACTION APPROPRIATE TO HONG KONG FOR THE ASSISTANCE OF THESE HIV INFECTED HAEMOPHILIACS. I WOULD REPORT THAT ACCORDING TO THE INITIAL FINDINGS OF THE STUDY GROUP, THE BLOOD PRODUCTS USED SINCE 1986 HAVE BEEN FREE FROM HIV CONTAMINATION.
THIS RED RIBBON THAT SOME OF US IN THIS CHAMBER PROUDLY WEAR MUST ALSO, I AM SURE, TEACH US A CERTAIN DEGREE OF HUMANITY. IN THAT MERE WORDS, ABOVE ALL, WE NEED TO DO MUCH MUCH MORE.
AS A CARING AND COMPASSIONATE GOVERNMENT, WE WILL DO OUR LEVEL BEST TO ASSIST THOSE IN NEED. A PACKAGE OF SPECIAL MEASURES IS BEING DEVELOPED. I LOOK TO MEMBERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT WHEN THE PROPOSALS ARE PUT TO THIS COUNCIL. I AM SURE THAT HONOURABLE MEMBERS WILL BE FORTHCOMING WITH THEIR SUPPORT IN FINANCE COMMITTEE IN DUE COURSE AS THEY ARE GENEROUS WITH THEIR SYMPATHY AND SUGGESTIONS TODAY. THANK YOU.
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/8 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
8
BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION Bill INTRODUCED
♦ It***
A BILL THAT SEEKS TO ESTABLISH A STATUTORY BOD} WITH THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF MAKING RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNOR ON GEOGRAPHICAL CONSTITUENCY BOUNDARIES IS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE PROPOSED BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION WILL ALSO ORGANISE AND OVERSEE THE CONDUCT 01 ELECTIONS Co |||| THRFI- TIERS OF REPRESENTATIVE INSTITUTIONS.
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION BILL, THE SEI RETARA FOR ('(INSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, SAID THE PROPOSED BODY WOULD BE POLITICALLY NEUTRAL, AND ITS IMPARTIALITY WOULD BE ENSURED THROUGH HIE APPOINTMENT PROC I SS ANU ITS MODUS OPERAND!.
THE COMMISSION WILL COMPRISE THREE MEMBERS, \LL OF WHOM ARE TO BE APPOINTED B} THE GOVERNOR. ONI MEMBER HIM.I. BE NOMINATED BY THE FUTURE PRESIDENT OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
"THEY WILL BE PEOPLE OF HIGH SOCIAL STANDING WHO ARE KNOWN TO BE IMPARTIAL AND HAVE NO POLITICAL AFFILIATION,’’ MR SZI SAID.
AS THE MAKING OF RECOMMENDATIONS ON CONSTITUENCY BOUNDARIES IS AN IMPORTANT AND SENSITIVE TASK, HE SAID THE BILL PROVIDED FOR AN ELABORATE SYSTEM OF CHECKS AND BXLANCES TO ENSURE THE TRANSPARENCY AND INTEGRITY OF THE PROCESS.
"THE COMMISSION WILL HAVE TO FOLLOW STATUTORY CRITERIA IN MAKING ITS RECOMMENDATIONS,’’ HI SAID.
THE COMMISSION’S PROVISIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS WILL BE PUBLISHED FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION BEFORE ITS FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS ARE PUT TO THE GOVERNOR.
WITHIN 30 DAYS OF THE RECEIPT OF THE COMMISSION’S REPORT, THE GOVERNOR WILL CAUSE IT TO BE LAID BEFORE THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
"THIS PROCEDURE WILL ENSURE THAT THE COMMISSION’S RECOMMENDATIONS ARE OPEN TO THE WIDER COMMUNITY," MR SZE SAID.
WHILE DECISIONS ON THE DELINEATION OF GEOGRAPHICAL CONSTITUENCY BOUNDARIES WILL BF MADE BY THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL, LEGCO MEMBERS MAY SCRUTINISE THE SUBSIDIARY LEGISLATION CONCERNED WHEN IT IS SUBSEQUENTLY PUT BEFORE THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL FOR ENACTMENT.
AS I’HE NEXT ROUND OF ELECTIONS WILL START h 1’1 H HIE DISTRICT BOARD ELECTIONS IN SEPTEMBER 1994, MR SZE SAID THE ENABLING LEGISLATION WOULD NEED TO BE ENACTED NOT LATER THAN THE END OF THE CURRENT LEGISLATIVE SESSION IN JULY THIS YEAR.
DEBATE ON THF BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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/9 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
9
AUDIT (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 *****
A BILL THAT SEEKS TO MAKE TECHNICAL AMENDMENT TO REFERENCE IN THE AUDIT ORDINANCE AND THE EMPLOYEES RETRAINING ORDINANCE TO THE GOVERNOR AS PRESIDENT OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE SECOND READING Ob THE Al I) IT (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993, THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, SAID THE AMENDMENT WAS NEEDED BECAUSE THE GOVERNOR WOULD NO LONGER BE THE PRESIDENT OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
AMENDMENTS TO THE LETTERS PATENT AND ROYAL INSTRUCTIONS TO EFFECT THAT CHANGE HAD BEEN APPROVED IH THE PRIVY COUNCIL AND WOULD COME INTO OPERATION ON FEBRUARY 18 AND 19.
THE BILL DOES NOT SEEK TO CHANGE ANY OF PHILOSOPHIES CURRENTLY REFLECTED IN THE AUDIT EMPLOYEES RETRAINING ORDINANCE).
THE PRINCIPLES
ORDINANCE (AND
AND
THE
AS FAR AS THE TERMS ARE CONCERNED, UNLESS THE CONTEXT OR LOGICAL PROCEDURE OTHERWISE REQUIRE, ALL REFERENCES TO "THE GOVERNOR” ARE TAKEN TO MEAN "THE GOVERNOR QUA GOVERNOR”, AND ALL REFERENCES TO ’’THE GOVERNOR AS PRESIDENT” ARE TAKEN TO MEAN ’’THE PRESIDENT OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL”.
MR SZE SAID SOME CHANGES WERE NECESSARY FOR THE RATIONALISATION OF THE PROCEDURES LEADING TO THE LAYING OF AUDIT REPORTS AND RELATED DOCUMENTS IN THE LEGCO AS SET OUT IN THE RELEVANT SECTIONS OF THE ORDINANCES.
CLAUSE 3 AMENDS SECTION 12 OF THE AUDIT ORDINANCE TO THAT REPORTS PREPARED B^ THE DIRECTOR OF AUDIT IN RESPECT EXAMINATION AND AUDIT OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED PRESIDENT WITHIN THE PERIOD SPEC IFI ED IN ITIE ORDINANCE OR SUCH
PROVIDE
OF HIS
TO THE
LONGER
PERIOD AS THE GOVERNOR MAY DETERMINE.
THEREAFTER, IT WILL BE THE PRESIDENT WHO WILL BE EMPOWERED TO VARY THE PERIOD WITHIN WHICH THE REPORT AND RELATED STATEMENTS SHALL BE LAID BEFORE LEGCO AND SUBMITTED TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE.
IT IS ALSO THE PRESIDENT WHO WILL BE EMPOWERED TO VARY THE PERIOD WITHIN WHI CH THE REPORT OF THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE SHALL BE LAID BEFORE LEGCO AND SUBMITTED TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE.
CLAUSE 5 AMENDS SECTION 16(2) OF THE AUDIT ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNOR, UPON RECEIPT OF A REPORT SUBMITTED TO HIM UNDER SUBSECTION (1) AND IF SO REQUESTED BY THE DIRECTOR, SHOULD AUTHORISE THE DIRECTOR TO TRANSMIT A COPY OF SAME TO THE PRESIDENT TO ENABLE THE LATTER TO PROCEED IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 12(2) AND (2A) .
THIS CHANGE WILL RATIONALISE THE PROCEDURE IN THE CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE THE GOVERNOR IS THE PERSON RECEIVING THE REPORT BUT NOT THE ONE TO LAY IT BEFORE THIS COUNCIL UNDER SECTION 12(2) AND (2A) AS AMENDED.
/A CONSEQUENTIAL .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
10 -
A CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENT TO Till- EMPLOYEES RETRAINING ORDINANCE IS MADE IN CLAUSE G.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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LEGCO TO ELECT PRESIDENT ON FEBRUARY 19
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) PASSED A MOTION TO ENABLE A FORMAL SITTING TO BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 19 FOR ELECTING ITS PRESIDENT AND OTHER RELATED BUSINESS.
MOVING THE MOTION TO SUSPEND STANDING ORDERS 11 AND 12, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON HAMISH MACLEOD, EXPLAINED THAT THE GOVERNOR ANNOUNCED IN HIS POLICY ADDRESS THAT HE WISHED TO HAND OVER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF PRESIDING OVER THE COUNCIL TO A PRESIDENT ELECTED FROM AMONGST MEMBERS.
"ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE, AS MEMBERS WISHED, FOR THE ELECTION OF THE PRESIDENT TO TAKE PLACE AT A FORMAL SITTING ON 19 FEBRUARY 1993," MR MACLEOD SAID.
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GOVT OPEN-MINDED ON CHINESE TITLE FOR CHIROPRACTORS ******
THE GOVERNMENT MAINTAINS CHIROPRACTORS" SO LONG AS IT IS
AN OPEN LEGALLY
MIND ON THE CHINESE TITLE
OF
CONFUSION, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND
.......... WELFARE, MRS
TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
ACCEPTABLE AND DOES NOT CAUSE
ELIZABETH WONG,
SPEAKING AT THE RESUMED DEBATE OF THE CHIROPRACTORS REGISTRATION BILL, MRS WONG SAID SHE HAD BEEN ADVISED BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBER THAT THERE WAS NO LEGAL OBJECTION TO THE USE OF THE TERM JET YEE" BY CHIROPRACTORS.
HAS ALSO BEEN ASSURED BY MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL S AD HOC GROUP DURING DISCUSSIONS ON THE BILL THAT THE TERM JET YEE" WOULD NOT, AND SHOULD NOT, CONFUSE THE PUBLIC NOR BF
MISINTERPRETED AS ABBREVIATION FOR "JET QUAT SUN KING YSANG" .’
I RESPECTFULLY DEFER. TO MEMBERS’ VIEWS," MRS WONG SAID.
SHE SAID THE BILL OF A CHIROPRACTORS COUNCI OF STANDARD, REGULATION FOR CHIROPRACTORS.
AIMED TO PROVIDE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT I. TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR REGISTRATION, SETTING OF CONDUCT AND ADMINISTRATION OF DISCIPLINE
/"THIS IS ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
11
"THIS IS PART OF OUR CONTINUING EFFORT TO REGISTER PROGRESSIVELY KEY HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS TO ENSURE HIGH STANDARDS OF SERVICE, TO ENHANCE THE STATUS OF THE HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS AND, ABOVE ALL, TO SAFEGUARD THE INTERESTS OF OUR PATIENTS," SHE NOTED.
THE BILL PROVIDES FOR APPOINTMENT BY THE GOVERNOR OF FIVE CHIROPRACTORS, FOUR NON-CHIROPRACTORS AND ONE PUBLIC OFFICER TO THE CHIROPRACTORS COUNCIL.
THERE IS THEREFORE ROOM FOR APPOINTING A MEDICAL PRACTITIONER TO FACILITATE INTERFACE AND MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE TWO HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONS, SHE ADDED.
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NO SECRET DEALS ON 1994/95 ELECTIONS
******
THE GOVERNOR AND MINISTERS HAVE MADE CLEAR THAT THERE WILL BE NO SECRET DEALS ON THE 1994/95 ELECTION ARRANGEMENTS, THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON GILBERT LEUNG KAM-HO IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR SZE SAID THE CONSTITUTIONAL POSITION WAS IN ANY CASE CLEAR.
THE ELECTIONS IN 1994/95 WOULD HAVE TO BE HELD ON THE BASIS OF LAWS ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
"IF THERE WERE TO BE DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN BRITAIN AND CHINA RESULTING IN AN UNDERSTANDING, THE BRITISH AND HONG KONG GOVERNMENTS WOULD OF COURSE RECOMMEND IT TO THIS COUNCIL," THE SECRETARY SAID.
THE GOVERNOR HAS CONSISTENTLY MADE CLEAR THAT THE ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR 1994/95 SHOULD BE OPEN, FAIR AND ACCEPTABLE TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
"THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT ENDORSES THIS VIEW,” HE SAID.
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SCREENING OF TRAVELLERS FOR HIV CONTRARY TO WHO’S ADVICE
******
THE SCREENING OF INTERNATIONAL TRAVELLERS FOR HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV) IS NOT ONLY CONTRARY TO THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION’S (WHO) ADVICE BUT IS ALSO COSTLY AND INEFFECTIVE, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON TAM YIU-CHUNG, MRS WONG SAID THREE DISEASES WERE AT PRESENT SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS OF WHO’S INTERNATIONAL HEALTH REGULATIONS.
/THESE ARE ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
12
THESE ARE CHOLERA, PLAGUE AND YELLOW FEVER. AIDS IS NOT A DISEASE SUBJECT TO THESE REGULATIONS.
MRS WONG EXPLAINED THAT ACCORDING TO THE GUIDELINES PROMULGATED BY WHO, NO SCREENING PROGRAMME OF INTERNATIONAL TRAVELLERS COULD PREVENT THE INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD OF HIV INFECTION.
THE GUIDELINES ALSO NOTED THE HIV SCREENING PROGRAMME FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVELLERS WOULD, AT BEST AND AT GREAT COST, RETARD ONLY BRIEFLY THE DISSEMINATION OF HIV BOTH GLOBALLY AND WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR COUNTRY.
"MOREOVER, IT IS GENERALLY BELIEVED THAT THERE COULD BE A 'WINDOW PERIOD’ OF ABOUT THREE MONTHS BETWEEN THE TIME OF INFECTION AND THE TIME WHEN THE INFECTION CAN BE DETECTED," MRS WONG SAID.
"BECAUSE OF THIS 'WINDOW PERIOD’, AIDS-FREE CERTIFICATES MAY FURTHER CREATE A FALSE SENSE OF SECURITY, BOTH FOR THE TRAVELLERS AND FOR THE COUNTRIES CONCERNED."
AS FAR AS HONG KONG WAS CONCERNED, MRS WONG SAID THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT PROVIDE THE PRACTICE OF SCREENING FOR HIV INFECTION SIMPLY FOR TRAVEL PURPOSES.
THE GOVERNMENT PUTS ITS FOCUS ON EDUCATION AND PREVENTION OF THE DISEASE IN ACCORDANCE WITH WHO’S GLOBAL STRATEGY FOR THE PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF AIDS.
"OUR SCREENING PROGRAMME IS TARGETTED AT THOSE PEOPLE WHO ARE AT RISK OF BEING INFECTED," MRS WONG SAID.
"IT IS OFFERED AS A COMPREHENSIVE PACKAGE INCLUDING PRE- AND POST- SCREENING COUNSELLING AND EDUCATION ON MODIFICATION OF RISKTAKING BEHAVIOUR.
"THESE TESTS ARE CONDUCTED ON THE BASIS OF CLINICAL JUDGEMENT TO ASSIST IN DIAGNOSIS OF THE PATIENT'S CONDITION."
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OPTIONS TO HANDLE MUNICIPAL WASTE TO BE STUDIED ******
A STUDY SHOULD START LATER THIS YEAR TO EXAMINE PRACTICAL OPTIONS TO REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF MUNICIPAL WASTE, OTHER THAN CONSTRUCTION WASTE, GOING TO LANDFILLS, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY REV THE HON FUNG CHI-WOOD IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR EASON SAID A CONSULTANCY STUDY COMMISSIONED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT CONCLUDED THAT RECYCLING CONSTRUCTION WASTE WAS TECHNICALLY FEASIBLE.
A SIX-WEEK TRIAL WAS CONDUCTED AT THE TSEUNG KWAN 0 LANDFILL IN APRIL AND MAY LAST YEAR TO ASSESS WHAT EQUIPMENT AND PRACTICAL PROCEDURES WOULD BE NECESSARY TO SELECT CONSTRUCTION WASTE SUITABLE FOR DISPOSAL AS RECLAMATION FILL MATERIAL, HE SAID.
/THE TRIAL .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
13
THE TRIAL ALSO DEMONSTRATED THAT IT WAS FEASIBLE TO SEPARATE VARIOUS TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION WASTE.
MR EASON SAID IN THE LIGHT OF THE STUDY FINDINGS, THE DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION WAS NOW DISCUSSING WITH THE HONG KONG CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION ARRANGEMENTS TO HELP CONSERVE VALUABLE SPACE AT LANDFILLS.
- 0 -
AIRPORT WORKS NO GREAT EFFECT ON FISH SUPPLY
*****
THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME PROJECTS AND OTHER MAJOR DEVELOPMENT WORKS ENTAILING RECLAMATION WILL NOT AFFECT SIGNIFICANTLY THE OVERALL SUPPLY OF FRESH MARINE FISH TO HONG KONG.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MRS ELIZABETH BOSHER, WHEN REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ALBERT CHAN WAI-YIP IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MRS BOSHER SAID THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES ESTIMATED THAT SOME 27,500 HECTARES OF INSHORE FISHING GROUNDS WOULD BE AFFECTED BY DREDGING, RECLAMATION AND MUD-DUMPING WORKS.
AS A RESULT, THE LIVELIHOOD OF SOME 4,000 FISHERMEN HABITUALLY OPERATING 1,500 SMALL FISHING BOATS IN THE WATERS BETWEEN LUNG KWU CHAU AND THE NINEPINS WILL BE AFFECTED TO A VARYING DEGREE.
SHE SAID THE ANNUAL PRODUCTION FROM THE AFFECTED AREAS REPRESENTED SOME 1.7 PER CENT, BY WEIGHT, OF THE TOTAL PRODUCTION OF THE HONG KONG FISHING FLEET.
THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT, WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF OTHER DEPARTMENTS INVOLVED, HAD HELD MEETINGS WITH THE AFFECTED FISHERMEN TO INFORM THEM OF THE PROGRAMME OF WORKS, OF THEIR ELIGIBILITY FOR EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCE AND OF THE AVAILABILITY OF OTHER ASSISTANCE SUCH AS RE-TRAINING, PUBLIC HOUSING AND SOCIAL SECURITY.
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LAWS ON INDUSTRIAL DISPUTES UNDER REVIEW * * * * *
PROCESS IS NOW IN HAND TO CONSIDER WHAT LESSONS MIGHT BE LEARNED FROM THE RECENT INDUSTRIAL DISPUTE INVOLVING CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, SAID.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHEUNG MAN-KWONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR CHAN SAID:
"AS PART OF THIS EXERCISE, I AM CONSIDERING, WITH THE ADVICE AND ASSISTANCE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS, WHETHER OUR EXISTING LAWS CONCERNING INDUSTRIAL DISPUTES ARE ADEQUATE AND WHETHER THEY STRIKE THE RIGHT BALANCE BETWEEN THE INTERESTS OF EMPLOYERS, EMPLOYEES AND THE COMMUNITY AT LARGE."
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FURTHER CONTROL ON PROJECTIONS FROM BUILDINGS NOT NEEDED *****
THERE IS NO NEED TO INTRODUCE FURTHER LEGISLATIVE CONTROL ON OBJECTS HANGING FROM BUILDINGS AS THERE IS ALREADY SUFFICIENT MEANS AVAILABLE UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON EDWARD HO IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR EASON EXPLAINED THAT PROJECTIONS FROM BUILDINGS WERE GENERALLY REGARDED AS "BUILDING" OR "BUILDING WORKS" AND WERE SUBJECT TO CONTROL UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE TO THE SAME EXTENT AS OTHER STRUCTURES.
IF THESE PROJECTIONS WERE LIKELY TO AFFECT THE STRUCTURAL SAFETY OF THE BUILDING, THEY COULD NOT BE ERECTED WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE BUILDING AUTHORITY AND BE TREATED AS UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS.
THE PROVISIONS OF THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE ENABLED ORDERS TO BE SERVED REQUIRING THE REMOVAL OF UNAUTHORISED WORKS AND TO DEAL WITH DANGEROUS OR POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS BUILDINGS.
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WAYS SOUGHT TO MAKE LEGAL SERVICES MORE ACCESSIBLE
*****
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON JEREMY MATHEWS, SAID HE HAD RAISED THE ISSUE OF LEGAL FEES AT HIS REGULAR MEETINGS WITH THE PRESIDENT OF THE LAW SOCIETY, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG BAR ASSOCIATION, AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE JUDICIARY AND OF LAW TEACHERS.
IN HIS WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON LEE WING-TAT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR MATHEWS SAID HE WAS EXPLORING WAYS IN WHICH LEGAL SERVICES COULD BE MADE MORE ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE.
/"FOR EXAMPLE .......
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15
"FOR EXAMPLE, I HAVE SUGGESTED THAT LAY MEMBERS SHOULD BE INCLUDED ON THE COSTS COMMITTEE ESTABLISHED UNDER THE LEGAL PRACTITIONERS ORDINANCE.
"OTHER OPTIONS THAT ARE BEING CONSIDERED INCLUDE THE REMOVAL OF CERTAIN DISPUTES FROM THE COURTS TO SPECIALISED TRIBUNALS AND THE TRANSFER OF SOME MATTERS FROM THE HIGH COURT TO THE DISTRICT COURT," HE SAID.
ON MR LEE’S SUGGESTION THAT LAWYERS BE URGED TO PUBLISH A LIST OF THEIR FEES AS GUIDELINES TO THE PUBLIC, MR MATHEWS SAID THIS WAS A USEFUL PROPOSAL AND HE WOULD BE GLAD TO EXPLORE: THIS WITH MEMBERS OF THE LEGAL PROFESSION.
HE SAID THE ADMINISTRATION WAS AWARE THAT PUBLIC CONCERN HAD BEEN EXPRESSED OVER THE LEVEL OF FEES CHARGED BY LAWYERS IN RELATION TO SOME LEGAL SERVICES.
HE NOTED THAT IN HIS SPEECH AT THE OPENING OF THE LEGAL YEAR LAST MONTH, HE EXPRESSED THE VIEW THAT THERE WAS A DANGER THAT LAWYERS MIGHT SOON PRICE THEMSELVES OUT OF THE REACH OF A GROWING NUMBER OF THE CITIZENS.
HE BELIEVED THAT, AT PRESENT, MANY PEOPLE MIGHT BE DETERRED FROM OBTAINING LEGAL SERVICES BY THE HIGH COST INVOLVED.
MR MATHEWS TOLD THE COUNCIL THAT HE HAD BEEN INFORMED BY THE DIRECTOR OF LEGAL AID THAT LEGAL AID SERVICES PROVIDED TO THE PUBLIC WERE KEPT UNDER REGULAR REVIEW AND ADJUSTED TO MEET CHANGED NEEDS.
FOR INSTANCE, HE SAID, SINCE JULY 1, 1992, THE FINANCIAL ELIGIBILITY OF AN APPLICANT FOR LEGAL AID WAS ASSESSED ON THE NEW "FINANCIAL CAPACITY" BASIS, THAT WAS, AGGREGATE OF DISPOSABLE ANNUAL INCOME AND DISPOSABLE CAPITAL, AND THE CURRENT CEILING WAS $120,000.
"THE ADMINISTRATION IS ALSO CURRENTLY CONDUCTING A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF THE LAW, POLICY AND PRACTICE GOVERNING THE PROVISION OF LEGAL AID SERVICES, INCLUDING THE ADEQUACY OF EXISTING SERVICES AND THE APPROPRIATENESS OF THE FINANCIAL ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA IN ENSURING ACCESS TO THESE SERVICES," HE SAID.
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IMPORTANCE OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY REAFFIRMED * * * * *
THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) REAFFIRMED THE IMPORTANCE OF PROMOTING ENERGY EFFICIENCY, NOT JUST WITHIN THE GOVERNMENT BUT ALSO IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON DAVID LI IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR EASON SAID THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY ADVISORY COMMITTEE HAD PREPARED A REPORT ON ENERGY CONSUMPTION PATTERNS IN COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS, COMPILED ADVISORY NOTES ON GOOD ENERGY HOUSEKEEPING IN COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND INTRODUCED AN EDUCATION CAMPAIGN ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY.
/"IT PLANS .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
16
"IT PLANS TO EXTEND THESE INITIATIVES FURTHER INTO OTHER MAJOR ENERGY' CONSUMING SECTORS SUCH AS THE RESIDENTIAL AND THE TRANSPORT SECTOR," HE SAID.
MR EASON SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS CONSIDERING APPOINTING ENERGY MANAGERS IN EACH GOVERNMENT OFFICE TO CARRY OUT ENERGY AUDITING AND PROMOTE GOOD ENERGY HOUSEKEEPING PRACTICES.
ON PAPER RECYCLING, MR EASON SAID THE GOVERNMENT ENCOURAGED MEASURES WHICH FACILITATED PAPER RECYCLING AND HAD ADOPTED MEASURES TO REDUCE THE USE OF PAPER.
HE SAID THE PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS BRANCH AS WELL AS THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT HAD STARTED USING RECYCLED WRITING PAPER ON A TRIAL BASIS TO ASSESS THE COST IMPLICATIONS AND PRINTING QUALITY.
HOWEVER, THE FACT THAT RECYCLED PAPER OF AN ACCEPTABLE STANDARD WAS ABOUT 20 PER CENT TO 25 PER CENT MORE EXPENSIVE THAN THE PAPER IN GENERAL USE WAS AN OBSTACLE TO ITS WIDER USE.
MR EASON SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO MONITOR THE PRICE OF RECYCLED PAPER, EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXTENDING ITS USE AND USE OTHER RENEWABLE SOURCES OF PAPER WHICH WERE COMPETITIVE IN PRICE.
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OVER 350 COMPLETE RETRAINING COURSES
*****
UP TO JANUARY 29, 358 RETRAINEES HAI) COMPLETED COURSES UNDER THE EMPLOYEES RETRAINING SCHEME, Till SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, TOLD THE: LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON TIE CHI-YUEN, MR CHAN SAID 138 OF THEM DID NOT REQUIRE THE JOB PLACEMENT SERVICES OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
OF THE REMAINING 220 WHO WERE PROVIDED WITH JOB PLACEMENT SERVICES BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND OTHER TRAINING BODIES, 88 «^RE SUCCESSFULLY PLACED, MOSTLY IN JOBS DIRECTLY RELEVANT IO RETRAINING' 75 EVENTUALLY SECURED BY THEMSELVES JOBS WHICH MIGHT OR MIGHT NOT BE DIRECTLY RELEVANT TO THEIR RETRAINING; AND 57 WERE STILL AWAITING PLACEMENT.
THE SALARIES OR WAGES OF THE 88 TRAINEES WHO HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFULLY PLA< ED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND OTHER BODIES RANGE FROM $3,500 TO $7,200 PER MONTH.
MR CHAN NOTED THAT SIMILAR INFORMATION IN RESPECT OF THE OTHER RETRAINEES WAS NOT AVAILABLE AS THEY WERE NOT OBLIGED TO PROVIDE SUCH INFORMATION TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
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17 -
POLL TO SEEK HA STAFF VIEWS *****
THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY WILL SHORTLY BE CONDUCT ING AN OPINION SURVEY AMONG ALL PROFESSIONAL STAFF, INCLUDING DOCTORS \ND NURSES, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON CONRAD LAM KUI-SHING, MRS WONG SAID THE SURVEY WOULD SEEK STAFF VIEWS ON VARIOUS ASPECTS OF THEIR WORK, INCLUDING THEIR CAREER COMMITMENT AND SUGGESTIONS ON FUTURE REFORMS.
SHE DESCRIBED THE SURVEY \S PARI’ OF AN ON-GOING EFFORT TO STRENGTHEN THE AUTHORITY’S COMMUNK \TION WITH STAFF.
MRS WONG ALSO TOLD THE UOUNC IL THAT THE WASTAGE OF MEDICAL AND NURSING STAFF WORKING IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR HAD IMPROVED SINCE THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY TOOK OVER THE MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL OF ALL PUBLIC HOSPITALS TN DECEMBER 1991.
SHE SAID THE AVERAGE WASTAGE RATES FOR DOCTORS \ND NURSES IN 1992 WERE EIGHT AND 10 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY, COMPARED WITH 10 AND 11 FOR EX-GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS AND 24 AND I I PER ( ENI FOR EX-SUBVENTED HOSPITALS IN 1990.
’’THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY ANTICIPATES THAT THERE WILL BE SUFFICIENT MANPOWER TO COPE WITH THE WASTAGE OF MEDICAL STAFF,” MRS WONG SAID.
ON PLANS TO RETAIN SERVING MEDICAL STAFF, THE SECRETARY REVEALED THAT OPPORTUNITJES FOR PROFESSIONAL AND MANAGERIAL TRAINING HAD REEN ENHANCED TO ATTRACT AND RETAIN STAFF.
’’DURING THE PERIOD FROM APRIL 1992 TO JANUARY 1993, OVER 900 DOCTORS HAVE RECEIVED PROFESSIONAL TRAINING THROUGH OVERSEAS PROGRAMMES, CONFERENCES AND LOCAL COURSES," SHE SAID.
"IN ADDITION, 245 DOCTORS HAVE ATTENDED IN-HOUSE MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT MODULES ORGANISED BY THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY."
THE REMUNERATION PACKAGE DESIGNED FOR HOSPITAL AUTHORITY STAFF AND THE ADOPTION OF A PROMOTION POLICY WI TH GREATER EMPHASIS ON MERIT RATHER THAN SENIORITY WILL ALSO CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS BETTER STAFF RETENTION.
LOCAL GRADUATES WILL (('NTINUI |O BL RI ' RI III D VI THE JUNIOR LEVEL WHILE SERVING OFFICERS ARI- BEING UR \ I DEI WITH FURTHER TRAINING TO ACQUIRE THE NECESSARY SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE FOR VACANCIES AT A MORE SENIOR LEVEL ARISING FROM THE DEPARTURE OF EXPERIENCED STAFF.
FURTHERMORE, MRS WONG ADDED, OVERSEAS RECRUITMENT WOULD BE CONDUCTED AS AND WHEN NECESSARY IF SUITABLE CANDIDATES WERE NOT AVAILABLE LOCALLY TO FILL ANY SPECIALIST POSTS.
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NO PLAN TO INCREASE NUMBER OF TRAFFIC WARDENS ♦ ♦ * * t
THERE IS NO QUESTION OF POLICE LIMITING ENFORCEMENT AGAINST ILLEGAL PARKING TO MAINTAIN GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH THE PUBLIC, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MRS PEGGY LAM, MR ASPREY SAID THE TOTAL NUMBER OF FIXED PENALTY TICKETS FOR ILLEGAL PARKING HAD INCREASED BY 34% FROM 1,008,199 IN 1991 TO 1,352,184 LAST YEAR.
HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD NO IMMEDIATE PLANS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF TRAFFIC WARDENS, BUT IT WOULD KEEP THIS UNDER REVIEW.
’’BOTH POLICE OFFICERS AND TRAFFIC WARDENS ARE EMPOWERED TO TAKE ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL PARKING,” MR ASPREY SAID.
THE PROPORTION OF FIXED PENALTY TICKETS FOR ILLEGAL PARKING ISSUED BY TRAFFIC WARDENS HAD INCREASED STEADILY, FROM 34.9% IN 1990 TO 37.2% IN 1991 AND TO 39.2% LAST YEAR.
ON PUBLICITY WORK TO DISCOURAGE ILLEGAL PARKING, MR ASPREY SAID MOTORISTS WERE ADVISED THROUGH THE ’ROAD USERS CODE’ WHERE, AND WHERE NOT, TO PARK.
FUTURE ROAD SAFETY PUBLICITY CAMPAIGNS WILL INCLUDE PUBLICITY ABOUT ILLEGAL CAR PARKING.
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LAW REFORM COMMISSION’S REPORT BEING CONSIDERED
THE ADMINISTRATION WAS CAREFULLY CONSIDERING THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION’S REPORT RELATING TO DIVORCE AND HOPED TO REACH A DECISION IN THE NEAR FUTURE ON WHETHER OR NOT IT WOULD SEEK TO IMPLEMENT IT, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON JEREMY MATHEWS, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MARTIN LEE, MR MATHEWS SAID THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION’S REPORT WAS PUBLISHED ON NOVEMBER 12, 1992.
THE PRINCIPAL RECOMMENDATIONS IN THE REPORT ARE:
(1) A COURT SHOULD BE ABLE TO HOLD THAT A MARRIAGE HAS IRRETRIEVABLY BROKEN DOWN AND TO GRANT A DIVORCE IF -
(A) THE PARTIES HAVE BEEN SEPARATED FOR ONE YEAR (INSTEAD OF THE CURRENT REQUIREMENT OF TWO YEARS) AND THE RESPONDENT CONSENTS TO THE DIVORCE; OR
/(B) THE PARTIES .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
19
(B) THE PARTIES HAVE BEEN SEPARATED FOR TWO YEARS (INSTEAD OF THE CURRENT REQUIREMENT OF FIVE YEARS);
OR
(C) THE PARTIES HAVE GIVEN \ JOINT NOTICE TO THE COURT OF THEIR INTENTION TO DIVORCE AND THEN, AFTER A MINIMUM PERIOD OF ONE YEAR, HAVE FILED A JOINT APPLICATION FOR DIVORCE (A NEW PROVISION);
(2) THE GENERAL RULE THAT NO PETITION FOR DIVORCE MAY BE PRESENTED WITHIN THREE YEARS FROM THE DATE OF MARRIAGE SHOULD BE AMENDED BY CHANGING THE PERIOD TO ONE YEAR.
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GROWTH IN PRIVATE CAR FLEET * * * * *
RAISING THE FIRST REGISTRATION TAX (FRT) AND ANNUAL LICENCE FEE LEVELS HAD PROVED QUITE EFFECTIVE IN THE PAST IN REGULATING THE GROWTH
IN NUMBER OF PRIVATE CARS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON LAM KUI-CHUN, IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"THE OBJECTIVE IN SETTING THE RATE OF FRT IS TO CONTAIN THE GROWTH IN NUMBERS OF PRIVATE CARS TO AN ACCEPTABLE LEVEL, HAVING REGARD TO ROAD CONDITIONS AND THE ADDITIONAL TRAFFIC THAT CAN BE ABSORBED BY PLANNED ROAD PROJECTS," HE SAID.
IT IS ALSO A SIGNIFICANT SOURCE OF GOVERNMENT REVENUE, ACCOUNTING FOR $3.4 BILLION OR ABOUT 3% OF TOTAL REVENUE IN 1991/92.
HOWEVER, MR LEUNG SAID VEHICLE OWNERSHIP WAS RISING AGAIN AS A RESULT OF INCREASING AFFLUENCE, AND THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE CURRENT RATES OF FRT AND ANNUAL LICENCE FEE IN CONTAINING CAR OWNERSHIP WAS BEING GRADUALLY ERODED.
THE NUMBER OF NEW PRIVATE CARS REGISTERED HAD INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY FROM 28,926 IN 1990 TO 31,131 IN 1991 AND FURTHER TO 41,878 IN 1992.
"WE ARE MONITORING THE SITUATION CAREFULLY BEFORE DECIDING WHAT FURTHER MEASURES MIGHT BE NEEDED TO MAINTAIN A FREE FLOW OF TRAFFIC ON OUR ROADS," HE SAID.
THE GOVERNMENT IS ALSO CONSIDERING AMENDMENTS TO THE FIRST REGISTRATION TAX ORDINANCE TO REDUCE THE SCOPE FOR TAX AVOIDANCE FOR VEHICLES AND TO ENSURE THAT THE FRT REMAINS EFFECTIVE BOTH IN TRANSPORT MANAGEMENT AND FISCAL TERMS, MR LEUNG SAID.
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EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES FOR FISHERMEN UNDER REVIEW
*****
THE EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES PAYABLE TO IN-SHORE FISHERMEN AFFECTED BY DREDGING, DUMPING AND RECLAMATION WORKS ARE BEING REVIEWED TO SEE WHETHER CHANGES SHOULD BE RECOMMENDED.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON PHILIP WONG TN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID THE REVIEW WOULD TAKE INTO ACCOUNT WORKS CURRENTLY BEING CARRIED OUT AS WELL AS THOSE UNDER PLANNING.
HE SAID THE RULE UNDER WHICH OPERATORS OF FISHING VESSELS LONGER THAN 15 METRES SHOULD NOT BE ELIGIBLE FOR EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES WAS AGREED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE IN 1978 ON THE GROUNDS THAT SUCH VESSELS WERE CAPABLE OF FISHING ELSEWHERE AND WERE NOT LIMITED TO INSHORE FISHING.
’’NEVERTHELESS, IN THE LIGHT OF REPRESENTATIONS BY FISHERMEN, THIS RULE IS BEING EXAMINED IN THE REVIEW, WHICH IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS,” HE SAID.
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NO EASY SOLUTION TO CONTINUOUS OCCUPATION OF PARKING SPACES ******
ALTERNATIVE MEASURES TO STOP SOME SECOND-HAND CAR DEALERS FROM CONTINUING OCCUPYING METERED PARKING SPACES HAVE BEEN CONSIDERED BUT THERE IS NO EASY SOLUTION.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ZACHARY WONG TN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR LEUNG SAID SECOND-HAND CAR DEALERS NEEDED PLACES TO PARK THEIR VEHICLES AND IT WAS BETTER THAT THEY USED METERED SPACES RATHER THAN PARKED VEHICLES ILLEGALLY.
”IF, FOR EXAMPLE, LEGISLATION WERE ENACTED TO MAKE IT AN OFFENCE TO FEED METERS AFTER THE EXPIRY OF THE PRESCRIBED PERIOD, THIS WOULD SIMPLY RESULT TN DEALERS MOVING THEIR VEHICLES BETWEEN METERS OR ELSE PARKING ILLEGALLY,” HE SAID.
HE NOTED THAT UNDER REGULATION 8 OF THE ROAD TRAFFIC (PARKING) REGULATIONS, IT WAS AN OFFENCE FOR A VEHICLE TO OCCUPY THE SAME PARKING SPACE FOR A CONTINUOUS PERIOD OF MORE THAN 24 HOURS.
TO INSTIGATE A SUCCESSFUL PROSECUTION WOULD REQUIRE A WATCH TO BE KEPT ON A PARTICULAR PARKING SPACE FOR A 24-HOUR PERIOD.
"UNDERSTANDABLY, THE POLICE DO NOT REGARD THIS AS A HIGH PRIORITY IN THE DEPLOYMENT OF THEIR MANPOWER, BUT THEY WILL RESPOND TO COMPLAINTS FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ON SUCH MATTERS,” HE SAID.
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ELECTRIC SUPPLY WILL NOT BE UPGRADED TO 240 VOLTS
******
THERE ARE NO PLANS FOR A FURTHER UPGRADING OF THE HOUSEHOLD ELECTRICITY SUPPLY IN HONG KONG TO 240 VOLTS, THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MRS ELIZABETH BOSHER, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HOWARD YOUNG, MRS BOSHER SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS UPGRADING THE HOUSEHOLD ELECTRICITY SUPPLY FROM 200 TO 220 VOLTS.
THE DECISION WAS MADE IN MAY 1990. A SUPPLY VOLTAGE OF 220 VOLTS WAS CHOSEN BECAUSE THAT VOLTAGE IS WIDELY USED INTERNATIONALLY.
MOST OF THE HOUSEHOLD EQUIPMENT AND APPLIANCES USED IN HONG KONG ARE ALREADY RATED AT 220 VOLTS.
EXISTING EQUIPMENT AND APPLIANCES RATED AT 200 VOLTS WILL CONTINUE TO OPERATE SAFELY AT 220 VOLTS BUT NOT NECESSARILY AT HIGHER VOLTAGES, MRS BOSHER SAID.
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RESIDENCE RESTRICTION FOR PUBLIC HOUSING TO STAY
******
THE GOVERNMENT HAS NO PLANS TO LIFT THE CURRENT SEVEN-YEAR RESIDENCE RESTRICTION FOR THE APPLICATION OF PUBLIC RENTAL AND HOME OWNERSHIP FLATS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON LAU CHIN-SHEK, IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID THIS WAS BECAUSE THE SUPPLY OF PUBLIC HOUSING FLATS IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS WOULD CONTINUE TO BE VERY TIGHT AGAINST COMPETING DEMANDS FROM THOSE AFFECTED BY REDEVELOPMENT OR CLEARANCES OR ON THE WAITING LIST, NEARLY ALL OF WHOM ALREADY MET THE LOCAL RESIDENCE REQUIREMENT.
"THESE PEOPLE WILL CONTINUE TO HAVE PRIORITY FOR HOUSING ASSISTANCE," HE SAID.
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MEASURES TO RELIEVE ROAD CONGESTION *****
THE GOVERNMENT AIMS TO EASE THE PROBLEM OF TRAFFIC CONGESTION IN A NUMBER OF WAYS.
THESE INCLUDE EXPANDING AND UPGRADING PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES TO PROVIDE AN ATTRACTIVE ALTERNATIVE TO PRIVATE CAR USAGE; BUILDING NEW ROADS AND IMPROVING EXISTING ROADS; AND BETTER MANAGEMENT OF ROAD SPACE TO MAXIMISE USAGE AND GIVE PRIORITY TO THE MASS CARRIERS.
/IN A.........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
22
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON SAMUEL WONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD SPEND $4.2 BILLION ON ROAD CONSTRUCTION AND IMPROVEMENTS IN THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR.
THIS COMPARED WITH $8.6 BILLION SPENT ON SUCH WORK IN THE LAST THREE YEARS.
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SELECTION OF LDC JOINT VENTURE PARTNERS EXPLAINED t » t t »
THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (LDC) INVITES A WIDE RANGE OF DEVELOPERS TO SUBMIT OFFERS THROUGH A COMPETITIVE TENDERING PROCESS TO ENSURE PROPRIETY IN THE SELECTION OF JOINT VENTURE PARTNERS AND TO SECURE THE BEST POSSIBLE OFFERS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON LEONG CHE-HUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE SAID THE CRITERIA USED BY THE LDC IN SELECTING JOINT VENTURE PARTNERS FOR ITS PROJECTS INCLUDED THE DEVELOPER’S OVERALL FINANCIAL STRENGTH; TRACK RECORD IN SALES AND MARKETING; ITS PROJECT MANAGEMENT AS WELL AS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE AND QUALITY OF PREVIOUSLY COMPLETED DEVELOPMENTS.
"THE SELECTION OF JOINT VENTURE PARTNERS IS NOT UNDERTAKEN BY PRIVATE NEGOTIATION BETWEEN THE LDC AND INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPERS.
"THE LDC APPOINTS EXTERNAL FINANCIAL CONSULTANTS TO EVALUATE THE TENDERS AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE LDC’S MANAGING BOARD AS TO WHICH IS THE BEST OFFER," HE SAID.
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NO CHANGE IN COUNTRY PARK LAND USE *****
NO CHANGE OF LAND USE HAS BEEN APPROVED IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS UNDER SECTION 10 OF THE COUNTRY PARKS ORDINANCE WHICH DEALS WITH CONTROL OF NEW DEVELOPMENT ON LEASED LAND AND PRIVATE PROPERTY IN AREAS COVERED BY A DRAFT PLAN OF A PROPOSED COUNTRY PARK.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON PETER WONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"ITS APPLICATION IS THUS LIMITED AS REGARDS BOTH TIME AND LAND AFFECTED," HE SAID, ADDING THAT THE LAST TIME A PROPOSED COUNTRY PARK WAS GAZETTED AND CONSEQUENTLY DESIGNATED WAS 1979.
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/23 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
- 23 -
MOTION ON TRAUMA TO CHILDREN PASSED
*****
A MOTION ON CHILDREN TRAUMA PROPOSED BY DR THE HON LEONG CHE-HUNG WAS PASSED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TONIGHT (WEDNESDAY).
SEVENTEEN MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE MOTION DEBATE. THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, WINDED UP THE DEBATE.
NINE MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE ADJOURNMENT DEBATE ON AIDS IN HONG KONG WHICH WAS RAISED BY DR THE HON CONRAD LAM. MRS WONG AGAIN SPOKE FOR THE GOVERNMENT.
TWO BILLS WERE ALSO PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS.
THEY ARE CHIROPRACTORS REGISTRATION BILL AND AIR POLLUTION CONTROL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1992.
THE MOTION PROPOSED BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON HAMISH MACLEOD, TO SUSPEND THE STANDING ORDERS TO ENABLE THE ELECTION OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL ON FEBRUARY 19 WAS ALSO PASSED.
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/24 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
24
PROPERTY REVIEW 1993
*****
THE 1993 PROPERTY REVIEW EXERCISE, WHICH EXAMINES PRODUCTION AND ACTIVITY IN THE PROPERTY MARKET DURING 1992 WITH FORECASTS OF SUPPLY FOR 1993 AND 1994, HAS LARGELY BEEN COMPLETED, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE PRELIMINARY SUPPLY, ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE MAJOR
FORECAST, TAKE-UP AND VACANCY RESULTS PROPERTY CATEGORIES AS FOLLOWS:
PRIVATE DOMESTIC - SMALL/MEDIUM UNITS (LESS THAN 100 SQ.M.)
COMPLETIONS IN 1992 AMOUNTED TO 25,140 UNITS, SOME 21% FEWER THAN IN 1991, AND WELL DOWN ON THE 31,850 FORECAST IN LAST YEAR’S REVIEW.
HOWEVER, OF THE SHORTFALL, THERE WERE ANOTHER 5,000 UNITS WHICH APPEARED TO HAVE BEEN VIRTUALLY COMPLETED AT THE YEAR END.
TAKE-UP WAS MARGINALLY DOWN ON THE PRECEDING YEAR SO VACANCY AT THE YEAR END INCREASED SLIGHTLY TO 4.2% OF STOCK.
FORECASTS OF SUPPLY POINT TO AROUND 35,600 UNITS IN 1993, OF WHICH 21,100 SHOULD BE COMPLETED IN THE FIRST HALF OF THE YEAR. ABOUT 35,400 UNITS ARE EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN 1994.
MUCH OF THE TWO YEARS’ SUPPLY WILL BE IN YUEN LONG AND TUEN MUN. NORTH AND SHA TIN WILL ALSO SEE SIGNIFICANT COMPLETIONS.
PRIVATE DOMESTIC - LARGE UNITS (100 SQ.M. AND OVER)
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE SUPPLY OF LARGE DOMESTIC UNITS IN 1992 WAS A LOW 1,080 UNITS, WELL DOWN ON THE 1,750 UNITS IN 1991 AND THE LOWEST ANNUAL SUPPLY SINCE 1976.
MID-LEVELS AND SOUTH DISTRICTS ON HONG KONG ISLAND ACCOUNTED FOR MORE THAN HALF OF THE UNITS IN THIS CATEGORY.
ALTHOUGH TAKE-UP WAS MARGINALLY DOWN, THE LIMITED SUPPLY CAUSED VACANCY, AS A PERCENTAGE OF STOCK, TO DROP FROM 5.9% TO 4.5% AT THE END OF 1992.
SUPPLY IN 1993 AND 1994 IS EXPECTED TO RISE AGAIN, TO AROUND 1,700 AND 3,000 UNITS RESPECTIVELY. OF THE TWO YEARS’ SUPPLY, ALMOST 3,200 UNITS ARE EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
/OFFICES .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
25
OFFICES
THE OVERALL SUPPLY OF OFFICE SPACE IN 1992, AT 565,000 SQ.M.
WAS 23% MORE THAN SUPPLY IN 1991, BUT WAS NEVERTHELESS WELL SHORT OF THE 749,000 SQ.M. FORECAST IN LAST YEAR’S REVIEW.
ALTHOUGH TAKE-UP IN 1992 WAS WELL UI' COMPARED WITH 1991, THE
LARGE SUPPLY IN 1992 CAUSED VACANCY To INCREASE To 9.5% OF STOCK, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
FORECASTS SUGGEST ON STREAM IN 1993, WITH AN
172,000 SQ.M. OR SO OF SPACE ENORMOUS 833,000 SQ.M. IN 1994.
WILL COME
THE SPOKESMAN SAID IT WAS INTERESTING TO NOTE THAT WHILE
SHEUNG WAN, WAN (’HAI, NORTH POINT AND TSIM SHA TSUI LARGE AMOUNTS OF NEW FLOOR SPACE IN THE TWO
500,000 SQ.M. WAS EXPECTED IN NON-TRADITIONAL OFFICE
WOULD ALL SEE
YEARS, ALMOST
AREAS SUCH AS
HUNG HOM AND KWUN TONG.
GRADE A
GRADE A SUPPLY IN 1992 WAS 340,000 SQ.M., 21% MORE THAN IN THE PRECEDING YEAR. TAKE-UP WAS UP 85% RESULTING IN VACANCY AT THE END OF THE YEAR BEING CONTAINED AT 10% OF STOCK.
FORECASTS SHOW THAT ABOUT 201,000 SQ.M. OF GRADE A SPACE IS EXPECTED IN 1993 MAINLY IN WAN (HAI AND NORTH POINT, WITH A SUBSTANTIAL 398,000 SQ.M. EXPECTED THE YEAR AFTER, MUCH OF THIS IN TSIM SHA TSUI, HUNG HOM AND NORTH POINT. FOR CENTRAL, COMPLETIONS ONLY AMOUNT TO ABOUT 7,600 SQ.M. IN THE TWO YEARS.
GRADE B
SUPPLY OF GRADE B SPACE IN 1992 AT 142,000 SQ.M. WAS UP RY 8% ON 1991. HOWEVER, OWING TO THE SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE TN TAKEUP, VACANCY AT THE YEAR END DROPPED TO 10.1% OF STOCK.
SUPPLY IN 1993 IS EXPECTED TO INCREASE BY ABOUT 11% TO 157,000 SQ.M., AND THEN 1’0 MORE THAN DOUBLE TO 3 16,000 SQ.M. IN 1994, MUCH OF IT EXPECTED IN SHFUNG WAN, WAN (HAI AND ABERDEEN.
/GRADE C .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
26
GRADE C
SUPPLY IN 1992 AMOUNTED TO 83,000 SQ.M., WELL UP FROM 47,000 SQ.M. IN 1991. TAKE-UP IN 1992 WAS ALSO WELL UP ON 1991 BUT, WAS NOT ENOUGH TO SOAK UP THE SUPPLY IN THE YEAR.
VACANCY THUS ROSE TO 7.4% OE STOCK.
FORECASTS FOR 1993 POINT TO COMPLETIONS OF 111,000 SQ.M. AND
119,000 SQ.M. RESPECTIVELY, MUCH OF WHICH WILL BE IN SHEUNG WAN, CENTRAL AND TSIM SHA TSUI.
COMMERCIAL
SUPPLY OF COMMERCIAL FLOOR SPACE IN 1992 WAS 105,000 SQ.M., ALMOST 20% LESS THAN IN THE PRECEDING YEAR. TAKE-UP WAS ALSO WELL DOWN RESULTING IN A DROP IN VACANCY AT THE YEAR END TO 4.4% OF STOCK.
COMPLETIONS IN 1993 ARE EXPECTED TO BE 372,000 SQ.M., WELL UP ON 1992, AND 1994 SHOULD SEE AROUND 337,000 SQ.M. COME ON STREAM.
FLATTED FACTORIES
SUPPLY OF FLATTED FACTORY SPACE IN 1992 AMOUNTED TO 545,000 SQ.M., MARGINALLY MORE THAN IN 1991. TAKE-UP WAS WELL UP ON THE PRECEDING YEAR, BUT NOT ENOUGH TO ABSORB THE NEW SUPPLY. AS A RESULT, VACANCY INCREASED TO 6.4% OF STOCK.
SUPPLY IN 1993 IS FORECAST TO DROP SIGNIFICANTLY TO AROUND 303,000 SQ.M., ALTHOUGH IT IS EXPECTED TO RISE AGAIN IN 1994, TO 443,000 SQ.M. WHICH IS STILL RELATIVELY LOW COMPARED TO THE PREVIOUS 10 YEAR AVERAGE.
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GOVERNOR TO RESUME WORK ON MONDAY * » » » «
IN RESPONSE TO PRESS ENQUIRIES, THE GOVERNOR’S SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NO TRUTH IN A RUMOUR THAT THE GOVERNOR HAD BEEN RE-ADMITTED TO HOSPITAL.
HE SAID THE GOVERNOR WAS RECOVERING QUICKLY AND WOULD RESUME WORK ON MONDAY.
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/27.......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
27
ADDITIONAL LIQUIDITY INJECTED INTO INTER-BANK MARKET * » * * ♦
THE OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND TODAY (WEDNESDAY) INJECTED ADDITIONAL LIQUIDITY INTO THE INTER-BANK MARKET.
THE BALANCE OF THE HONGKONGBANK*S ACCOUNT MAINTAINED WITH THE EXCHANGE FUND WAS INCREASED FROM HK$1,500 MILLION TO HK$2,150 MILLION.
COMMENTING ON THE OPERATION, THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE (DESIGNATE) OF THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY, MR JOSEPH YAM, SAID THE ADDITIONAL LIQUIDITY WAS INJECTED TO RELIEVE TEMPORARY TIGHTNESS IN THE INTER-BANK MARKET DUE TO THE SHARE FLOATATION CLOSED FOR SUBSCRIPTION AT NOON TODAY.
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GOVT TO CONTROL PUBLICATION OF * * *
FILMS AS VIDEOS AND LASER DISCS ♦ *
A BILL SEEKING TO AMEND THE FILM CENSORSHIP ORDINANCE WILL BE GAZETTED ON FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 12).
THE MAIN OBJECTIVE OF THE BILL IS TO PLUG A LOOPHOLE IN THE EXISTING LEGISLATION IN REGARD TO THE PUBLICATION OF FILMS AS VIDEOS AND LASER DISCS.
CURRENTLY FILMS APPROVED FOR EXHIBITION IN CINEMAS WHEN PUBLISHED AS VIDEO TAPES OR LASER DISCS ARE EXEMPTED FROM THE CONTROL OF EITHER THE FILM CENSORSHIP ORDINANCE OR THE CONTROL OF OBSCENE AND INDECENT ARTICLES ORDINANCE.
AS A RESULT, YOUTHS UNDER THE ACCESS TO VIDEO TAPES OR LASER DISCS ALTHOUGH JUVENILES ARE NOT PERMITTED
AGE OF 18 ARE NOT PROTECTED FROM MADE FROM CATEGORY III FILMS TO SEE SUCH FILMS IN CINEMAS.
THE BILL SEEKS TO REGULATE THE PUBLICATION OF FILMS AND PROHIBITS THE PUBLICATION OF CATEGORY III FILMS TO JUVENILES WHEN RELEASED AS VIDEO TAPES AND LASER DISCS.
ANOTHER PURPOSE OF THE BI 1.1 IS TO INCREASE SOME OF THE PENALTY LEVELS SO AS TO ACHIEVE THE DESIRED DETERRENT EFFECT.
THE PENALTIES WERE SET IN I9R8 WHEN THE ORDINANCE WAS ENACTED AND SOME HAVE BECOME OUTDATED.
IN ORDER TO ALLOW THE INDUSTRY AN ADEQUATE GRACE PERIOD TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMENDED ORDINANCE, THE BILL WILL BE BROUGHT INTO EFFECT SIX MONTHS AFTER ITS ENACTMENT.
THE BILL WILL BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON FEBRUARY 24.
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/28 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
- 28 -
SES ON ECONOMY ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ t
A STABLE, EFFICIENT AND CORRUPTION-FREE GOVERNMENT, BOUND BY THE RULE OF LAW, IS A FUNDAMENTAL PRE-REQUISITE TO THE MAINTENANCE OF LONG-TERM ECONOMIC GROWTH AND THE ENCOURAGEMENT OF INWARD INVESTMENT, THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MRS ANSON CHAN, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"AT THE SAME TIME A RESPONSIBLE AND RESPONSIVE GOVERNMENT MUST ENSURE THAT THE GROWING ECONOMIC PROSPERITY OF THE COMMUNITY GOES HAND-IN-HAND WITH A RECOGNITION OF THE NEED FOR THOSE WHO HAVE CREATED WEALTH TO PARTICIPATE MORE FULLY IN THE PROCESSES OF GOVERNMENT DECISION-MAKING WHICH SHAPE AND INFLUENCE ALL ASPECTS OF THEIR LIVES,” MRS CHAN SAID.
OPENING A SYMPOSIUM ORGANISED BY THE EURASIA INSTITUTE IN PARIS, MRS CHAN SAID ONE OF THE KEY INGREDIENTS TO HONG KONG’S SUCCESS HAD BEEN THE WILLINGNESS OF THE GOVERNMENT TO ALLOW PRIVATE BUSINESSMEN TO MAKE THEIR OWN DECISIONS ABOUT WHERE AND WHEN TO INVEST AND HOW TO RESPOND TO A CHANGING BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT.
"AMONGST THE DYNAMIC ASIAN ECONOMIES THERE HAVE INEVITABLY BEEN DIFFERENCES OF EMPHASIS IN TERMS OF THE ROLE OF GOVERNMENT IN THEIR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, BUT WE IN HONG KONG HAVE CONSISTENTLY PLACED OUR TRUST IN MARKET FORCES AND IN AN UNSWERVING COMMITMENT TO FREE TRADE AND AN OPEN ECONOMY," SHE ADDED.
"THIS HAS PAID HANDSOME DIVIDENDS FOR US," SHE STRESSED.
MRS CHAN NOTED THAT HONG KONG BUSINESSMEN WERE USED TO DOING BUSINESS WITHOUT SUBSIDIES FROM THE GOVERNMENT.
"THEY KNOW THAT THE ULTIMATE RISKS REST WITH THEM, NOT THE TAXPAYERS. THIS LEADS NOT ONLY TO A MORE REALISTIC ASSESSMENT OF COMMERCIAL RISKS BUT ALSO MAKES IT EASIER AND QUICKER TO ADAPT TO CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES.
"OUR LOW TAXATION ENABLES OUR ENTREPRENEURS TO POCKET MOST OF
THE PROFITS THAT THEY MAKE," SHE ADDED.
SHE POINTED OUT THAT IF THE CONTINUING GROWTH OF THE ASIAN "MIRACLE ECONOMIES" WAS TO BE SUSTAINED, IT WOULD BE NECESSARY FOR BOTH GOVERNMENT AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO PLAY THEIR PART IN RESPONDING TO THE CHALLENGES OF AN EVER CHANGING BUSINESS AND TRADING ENVIRONMENT.
"IN PARTICULAR AS INVESTORS AND BUSINESSMEN MOVE ON RELENTLESSLY IN SEARCH OF NEW LOW-COST MANUFACTURING ENVIRONMENTS, THE CHALLENGE FOR THE MORE MATURE ASIAN ECONOMIES WILL BE TO MOVE BEYOND RELIANCE ON THE BASIC, LABOUR-INTENSIVE . MANUFACTURING PROCESSES WHICH SERVED US WELL IN THE PAST, TO THE PRODUCTION OF HIGHER VALUE-ADDED AND MORE TECHNOLOGICALLY SOPHISTICATED GOODS AND SERVICES WHICH CAN SUSTAIN FUTURE GROWTH," SHE SAID.
/"WE WILL ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
29
"WE WILL ALSO NEED TO FIND NEW MARKETS, TO REDUCE OUR DEPENDENCE ON SOME EXISTING MARKETS AND TO CONTINUE TO LOBBY AGAINST THE EVER PRESENT THREAT OF PROTECTIONISM IN THE MARKETS ON WHICH WE HAVE TRADITIONALLY RELIED SUCH AS THE US AND EUROPE,” MRS CHAN SAID.
SHE SAID A STRONG COMMITMENT TO INCREASING LIBERALISATION IN WORLD TRADE, BEGINNING WITH THE LONG OVERDUE CONCLUSION TO THE CURRENT URUGUAY ROUND OF GATT TALKS WOULD BE A POTENT TONIC.
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WORKSHOP FOR IMPLEMENTING ILO CONVENTION ON CONSTRUCTION SAFETY
A WORKSHOP IS BEING HELD IN HONG KONG TO LOOK INTO ACHIEVABLE STEPS FOR IMPLEMENTING THE INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION (ILO) CONVENTION ON SAFETY AND HEALTH IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.
THE THREE-DAY WORKSHOP, ORGANISED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE ILO AS PART OF THE ASIAN REGIONAL PROGRAMME ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH, STARTED TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MORE THAN 20 PARTICIPANTS WITH TRIPARTITE BALANCE ATTENDED THE WORKSHOP. THEY INCLUDE THREE ILO OFFICIALS AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM GOVERNMENT POLICY BRANCHES, THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCT I, EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES.
"WE ARE PLEASED TO BE ABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE WORKSHOP AS THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE DIVISION ALWAYS WANT TO SEE WORKERS WORKING IN A BETTER AND SAFER WORKING ENVIRONMENT," ONE OF THE PARTICIPANTS, THE CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT MR CHAN TAT-KING SAID.
MR CHAN NOTED THAT THE OBJECTIVE OF THE CONVENTION WAS AIMED AT MAINTAINING HIGH STANDARDS OF SAFETY AND HEALTH IN THE WORKING ENVIRONMENT IN CONSTRUCTION SITES.
"IT ENLISTS ALL THE MEASURES NECESSARY TO TACKLE HAZARDOUS PROCESSES AND WORKPLACES WHICH INCLUDE SCAFFOLDS, LADDERS, LIFTING APPLIANCES, EARTH-MOVING EQUIPMENTS, WORKING AT HEIGHT, EXCAVATION WORK, EARTHWORKS, UNDERGROUND WORKS, CAISSON WORK, STRUCTURAL FRAMES AND FORMWORK, DEMOLITION, ELECTRICITY, HANDLING OF EXPLOSIVES, AND HEALTH HAZARDS," HE SAID.
"THE CONVENTION ALSO REQUIRES THE ADOPTION OF ALL NECESSARY MEASURES, INCLUDING THE PROVISION OF APPROPRIATE PENALTIES AND CORRECTIVE MEASURES, TO ENSURE EFFECTIVE ENFORCEMENT," HE ADDED.
DURING THE WORKSHOP, THERE WILL BE GROUP DISCUSSIONS AND PLENARY SESSIONS TO ENABLE PARTICIPANTS TO SET DOWN PRACTICABLE STEPS NECESSARY FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ('(INVENTION IN HONG KONG.
/PARTICIPANTS WILL ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
30
PARTICIPANTS WILL ALSO IDENTIFY PROBLEMS IN IMPLEMENTING THE STEPS AND RECOMMEND POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS.
COHERENT ACTION IN HONG KONG,” MR
’’THROUGH TRIPARTITE CONSULTATION, WE HOPE A PLAN COULD BE DRAWN UP TO IMPLEMENT THE CONVENTION
CHAN SAID.
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FINANCE COMMITTEE TO MEET ON FRIDAY ♦ * * * *
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A MEETING AT 2.30 PM ON FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 12) IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OBSERVE THE PROCEEDINGS FROM THE CHAMBER’S PUBLIC GALLERIES. THEY MAY RESERVE SEATS BY CALLING 869 9492.
NOTE TO EDITORS :
ADVANCE COPIES OF THE COMMITTEE’S PAPERS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR THE MEDIA FROM 4 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) AT THE PRESS ROOM ON THE FIRST FLOOR OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BUILDING. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PAPERS WILL BE EMBARGOED FOR USE UNTIL THE MEETING ENDS.
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LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY 10) UP TO 4.30 PM *****
1. STUDYING MATERIAL ON CROWD CONTROL GENERALLY.
2. STUDYING MATERIAL ON UNDERAGE DRINKING.
3. CORRESPONDENCE.
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/31 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1993
- 31
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
* » ♦ * * $ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1 ,500
REVERSAL OF LAF NIL
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 1,500
NET INJECTION/WJTHDRAWAL TODAY + 650
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY NIL
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,150
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 115.00 *-0.2* 10.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.43 PCT 12 MONTHS 2402 5.50 101.82 3.70
1 MONTH 3.09 PCT 15 MONTHS 24 05 5.50 101.90 3.98
3 MONTHS 3.OR PCT 1fi MONTHS 2 4 OR 4 . 375 100.25 4.25
6 MONTHS 3.19 PCT 21 MONTHS 241 1 4.625 100.25 4.52
12 MONTHS 3.69 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 16,30B MN
CLOSED 10 FEBRUARY 1993
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
GAZETTE PLAN REMAINS ON COURSE ................................... 1
EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS FOR DECEMBER AND 1992 RELEASED .... 1
{
CONTAINER THROUGHPUT HITS 8 MILLION MARK ........................ 10
GROUP TO STUDY IMPLICATIONS OF SHARE ISSUES ..................... 11
1993 COIN COLLECTIONS ON SALE ................................... 11
ART WORKS FOR APEC SECRETARIAT .................................. 12
CONTRACT FOR TSUEN WAN ELEVATED WALKWAY IMPROVEMENTS SIGNED 13
SEMINAR ON AIDS PREVENTION ...................................... 13
300 TEACHERS ATTEND WORKSHOPS ON TEENAGE SUICIDE ................ 14
"KEEP EASTERN GREEN" BUS PARADE ................................. 15
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY ........................................... 15
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 16
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
- 1 -
GAZETTE PLAN REMAINS ON COURSE
*****
THE PLAN TO GAZETTE THE GOVERNOR'S PROPOSALS ON ELECTION ARRANGEMENTS BEFORE THE END OI< THE MONTH REMAINS ON COURSE, THE DEPUTY TO THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD^SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AT THE CGO BUILDING, SIR DAVID SAID : "WE HAVE SAID THAT OUR PLANS ARE THAT WE WILL GAZETTE THEM BEFORE THE END OF THE MONTH.”
"WE REMAIN ON COURSE TO PROCEED l\ THAT WAY.
"WE HAVE BEEN TOTALLY CONSISTENT.”
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EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS FOR DECEMBER AND 1992 RELEASED
*****
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) RELEASED THE DETAILED STATISTICS OF EXTERNAL TRADE WITH BREAKDOWN BY COUNTRY AND COMMODITY FOR DECEMBER AND THE WHOLE YEAR OF 1992.
LAST YEAR, THE UNITED STATES AND CHINA REMAINED THE TWO LARGEST COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION FOR HONG KONG’S DOMESTIC EXPORTS, WITH SHARES OF 27.6% AND 26.5% RESPECTIVELY. THE VALUES OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THESE TWO COUNTRIES GREW BY 2.8% AND 13.9% RESPECTIVELY IN 1992 OVER 1991.
OTHER MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION THAT RECORDED INCREASES IN DOMESTIC EXPORT VALUE INCLUDED SINGAPORE (+17.8%) AND TAIWAN (+7.2%).
HOWEVER, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO GERMANY, FRANCE, THE UNITED KINGDOM, THE NETHERLANDS AND JAPAN DECREASED IN 1992, BY 17.4%, 14.7%, 8.5%, 6.9% AND 5.7% RESPECTIVELY OVER 1991.
FOR DECEMBER 1992, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO SINGAPORE, CHINA, THE NETHERLANDS, TAIWAN AND GERMANY RECORDED INCREASES OVER DECEMBER 1991, BY 29.7%, 8.3%, 8.3%, 3.9% AND 3.4% RESPECTIVELY.
HOWEVER, DECREASES WERE RECORDED TN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CANADA (-16.1%), THE UNITED STATES (-15.6%), JAPAN (-10.4%) AND FRANCE (-7.4%).
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 1.
FOR ALL COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION TAKEN TOGETHER, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS FOR THE WHOLE YEAR OF 1992 WAS $234 BILLION, 1.3% OVER THAT OF 1991. FOR DECEMBER 1992, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WAS $21,658 MILLION, 2.9% BELOW THAT TN DECEMBER 1991.
TABLE 2 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
/COMPARING 1992 .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
2
COMPARING 1992 WITH 1991, INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE REGISTERED FOR OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES (BY $2,238 MILLION OR 12.2%); CLOTHING (BY $1,631 MILLION OR 2.2%); AND ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $887MILL1ON OR 4.6%).
HOWEVER, DECREASES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE RECORDED FOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $2,185 MILLION OR 14.4%); AND MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY JEWELLERY, GOLDSMITHS’ AND SILVERSMITHS’ WARES (BY $1,424 MILLION OR 6.0%).
THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS AND IMPORTS, AT $691 BILLION AND $955 BILLION RESPECTIVELY TN 1992, RECORDED SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES OVER 1991, BY 29.2% AND 22.6% RESPECTIVELY.
FOR DECEMBER 1992, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS WAS $64,284
MILLION AND THAT OF IMPORTS, $90,232 MILLION, WHICH REPRESENT INCREASES OF 22.5% AND 17.2% RESPECTIVELY OVER DECEMBER 1991.
THE TOTAL VALUE OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR 1992 AS A WHOLE WAS $1,880 BILLION, 21.7% ABOVE THAT OF 1991. FOR DECEMBER 1992, THE TOTAL VALUE OF EXTERNAL TRADE WAS $176 BILLION, AN INCREASE OF 16.1% OVER THAT IN DECEMBER 1991.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM THE 10 MAJOR SUPPLIERS ARE SUMMARISED IN TABLE 3.
COMPARING 1992 WITH 1991, THE INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM THE MAJOR SUPPLIERS WERE: GERMANY (+31.7%), JAPAN (+30.4%), MALAYSIA (+30.1%), ITALY (+26.4%), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+26.4%), SINGAPORE (+24.0%), CHINA (+20.8%), THE UNITED STATES (+20.0%), TAIWAN (+16.7%) AND THE UNITED KINGDOM (+16.2%).
COMPARING DECEMBER 1992 WITH DECEMBER 1991, INCREASES WERE ALSO RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM ALL THE MAJOR SUPPLIERS: SINGAPORE (+35.2%), JAPAN (+31.8%), ITALY (+30.3%), MALAYSIA (+28.7%), THE UNITED STATES (+27.9%), GERMANY (+24.8%), THE UNITED KINGDOM (+20.0%), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+17.6%), CHINA (+8.6%) AND TAIWAN (+8.5%).
TABLE 4 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
COMPARING 1992 WITH 1991, INCREASES TN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS WERE REGISTERED FOR ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $17,644 MILLION OR 22.7%); ROAD VEHICLES (BY $16,653 MILLION OR 98.0%); MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $16,230 MILLION OR 29.1%); TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $15,535 MILLION OR 25.9%); CLOTHING (BY $13,571 MILLION OR 20.4%); AND OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES (BY $10,181 MILLION OR 42.9%).
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 5.
/COMPARING 1992 .......
3 - THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
COMPARING 1992 WITH 1991, THF VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO THE UNITED KINGDOM, CHINA, THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, JAPAN, FRANCE AND SINGAPORE INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY, BY 10.4%, 38.3%, 34.0%, 30.6%, 26.7%, 22.1% AND 14.7% RESPECTIVELY. THAT TO TAIWAN AND GERMAN’. ALSO INCREASED, BY 5.6% AND 3.2% RESPECTIVELY.
HOWEVER, OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA DECREASED BY 7.1%
COMPARING DECEMBER 1992 WITH DECEMBER 1991, THE VALUE OF REEXPORTS TO CHINA, THE UNITED KINGDOM, SINGAPORE AND FRANCE INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY, BY 39.5%, 31.1%, 29.3% AND 21.8% RESPECTIVELY.
THAT TO CANADA, GERMANY, THE UNITED STATES AND JAPAN ALSO INCREASED, BY 14.6%, 14.2%, 12.2% AND 5.5% RESPECTIVELY.
HOWEVER, OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO TAIWAN AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA DECREASED, BY 7.5% AND 1.1% RESPECTIVELY.
TABLE 6 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
COMPARING 1992 WITH 1991, INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF REEXPORTS WERE REGISTERED FOR MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $25,398MILL1ON OR 35.3%); CLOTH I NG (BY $14,519 MILLION OR 22.8%); ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $12,681 MILLION OR 30.9%); TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $10,684 MILLION OR 23.7%); FOOTWEAR (BY $10,375 MILLION OR 41.6%); AND TEXTILES (BY $9,584 MILLION OR 16.5%).
ALL THE TRADE STATISTICS DESCRIBED HERE ARE MEASURED AT CURRENT PRICES AND NO ACCOUNT HAS BEEN TAKEN OF THF CHANGES IN PRICES BETWEEN THE PERIODS OF COMPARISON.
A SEPARATE ANALYSIS OF THE VOLUME AND PRICE MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR DECEMBER 1992 WILL BE RELEASED IN EARLY MARCH.
DETAILED TRADE STATISTICS ANALYSED BY COMMODITY AND BY COUNTRY ARE PUBLISHED IN TRADE STATISTICS REPORTS.
THE DECEMBER 1992 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE" WITH DETAILED ANALYSES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE IN DECEMBER AND THE WHOLE YEAR OF 1992 WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT $52 A COPY AROUND FEBRUARY 22.
THE REPORT IS ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL AND THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON THE 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION TO THE REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION
BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG (TEL 842 8802) AND ENQUIRIES ON
TRADE STATISTICS TO THF CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL 582 4915) .
/TABLE 1 .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
4
TABLE 1 : DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE TEN MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION
MAJOR COUNTRY OF DESTINATION DEC 1992 (HKD Mn.) DEC 92 OVER DEC 91 (X CHANGE) JAN-DEC 1992 (HKD Mn.) JAN-DEC 92 OVER JAN-DEC 91 (X CHANGE)
UNITED STATES 5,349 - 15.6 6.4,600 + 2.8
CHINA 5,880 + 8.3 61,959 ♦ 13.9
GERMANY 1,980 + 3.4 15,956 - 17.4
UNITED KINGDOM 1,332 ♦ 0.7 12,541 - 8.5
JAPAN 850 - 10.4 10,997 - 5.7
SINGAPORE 1,000 ♦ 29.7 10,360 ♦ 17.8
TAIWAN 603 ♦ 3.9 6,500 + 7.2
CANADA 436 - 16.1 5,018 ♦ 0.1
NETHERLANDS 550 ♦ 8.3 4,878 - 6.9
FRANCE 338 - 7.4 3,164 - 11.7
/TABLE 2 .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
5
TABLE 2 : DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF THE TEN MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION DEC 1992 (HKD Mn.) DEC 92 OVER DEC 91 (X CHANGE) JAN-DEC 1992 • (HKD Mn.) JAN-DEC 92 OVER JAN-DEC 91 (X CHANGE)
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 7,840 - 4.9 77,156 ♦ 2.2
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY JEWELLERY, GOLDSMITHS’ AND SILVERSMITHS’ WARES) 1,728 - 15.1 22,152 - 6.0
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 1,950 ♦ 21.2 20,530 + 12.2
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS ANO APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 1,816 + 2.8 20,138 ♦ 4.6
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 1,651 - 14.5 18,879 - 6.R
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 1,505 - 5.9 17,226 - 2.1
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 1,124 - 5.0 12,983 - 14.4
MANUFACTURES OF METALS 398 - 8.9 4,788 - 2.3
PLASTICS IN PRIMARY FORMS 274 - 28.6 3,367 - 5.8
MACHINERY SPECIALIZED FOR PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES 307 + 39.6 3,225 + 29.7
/TABLE 3 .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
6
TABLE 3 : IMPORTS FROM THE TEN MAJOR SUPPLIERS
MAJOR SUPPLIER DEC 1992 (HKD Mn.) DEC 92 OVER DEC 91 (X CHANGE) JAN-DEC 1992 (HKD Mn.) JAN-DEC 92 OVER JAN-DEC 91 (X CHANGE)
CHINA 31,770 + 8.6 354,348 + 20.8
JAPAN 16,775 ♦ 31.8 1.66,191 + 30.4
TAIWAN 8,103 * 8.5 87,019 + 16.7
UNITED STATES 7,598 ♦ 27.9 70,594 + 20.0
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 3,863 ♦ 17.6 44,155 + 26.4
SINGAPORE 3,901 + 35.2 39,087 + 24.0
GERMANY 2,088 ♦ 24.8 21,911 + 31.7
UNITED KINGDOM 1,805 ♦ 20.0 19,221 + 16.2
ITALY 1,517 ♦ 30.3 14,825 + 26.4
MALAYSIA 1,191 ♦ 28.7 12,825 + 30.1
/TABLE 4
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
7
TABLE 4 : IMPORTS OF THE TEN MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION DEC 1992 (HKD Mn.) DEC 92 OVER DEC 91 (X CHANGE) JAN-DEC :1992 • (HKD Mn.) JAN-DEC 92 OVER JAN-DEC 91 (X CHANGE)
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 8,5.39 - 6.2 101,322 + 8.2
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 8,931 + 19.5 95,434 + 22.7
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 6,974 - 4.5 80,078 + 20.4
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 7,185 + 27.4 75,629 + 25.9
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 6,040 + 21.6 71,924 + 29.1
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 4,541 + 8.3 45,860 + 16.9
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 3,229 + 30.0 33,921 + 42.9
ROAD VEHICLES 4,753. +103.9 33,653 + 98.0
FOOTWEAR 3,127 + 41.2 31,689 + 41.9
NON-METALLIC MINERAL MANUFACTURES 2,478 - 8.1 29,335 + 19.4
/TABLE 5 .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
8
TABLE 5 : RE-EXPORTS TO THE TEN MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION
MAJOR COUNTRY OF DESTINATION DEC 1992 (HKD Mn. ) DEC 92 OVER DEC 91 (X CHANGE) JAN-DEC 1992 I • (HKD Mn.) JAN-DEC 92 OVER JAN-DEC 91 (X CHANGE)
CHINA 22,436 + 39.5 212,105 + 38.3
UNITED STATES 11,813 <■ 12.2 148,500 + 34.0
JAPAN 3,122 + 5.5 37,465 + 26.7
GERMANY 3,442 ♦ 14.2 33,103 + 3.2
TAIWAN 2,178 - 7.5 26,156 + 5.6
UNITED KINGDOM 1,860 ♦ 31.1 20,591 + 40.4
SINGAPORE 1,460 + 29.3 13,866 + 14.7
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 1,155 - 1.1 13,588 - 7.1
CANADA 900 + 14.6 11,101 ♦ 30.6
FRANCE 1,053 + 24.8 11,039 + 22.1
/TABLE 6 .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
9
TABLE 6 : RE-EXPORTS OF THE TEN MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION DEC 1992 (HKD Mn.) DEC 92 OVER DEC 91 (X CHANGE) JAN-DEC 1992 (HKD Mn.) JAN-DEC 92 OVER JAN-DEC 91 (X CHANGE)
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 7,772 ♦ 28.8 97,316 + 35.3
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 6,704 - 2.7 78,095 + 22.8
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 6,121 ’ + 8.8 67,744 + 16.5
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 5,060 + 19.8 55,763 + 23.7
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF • 5,021 ♦ 27.7 53,746 + 30.9
FOOTWEAR 3,324 + 34.7 35,327 + 41.6
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 2,873 4 13.1 29,651 + 36.2
TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR CONTAINERS 2,142 + 7.3 23,831 + 19.5
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 2,334 + 44.1 21,994 + 41.1
ROAD VEHICLES 2,454 +126.1 17,186 +103.0
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/10.........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
10
CONTAINER THROUGHPUT HITS 8 MILLION MARK
*****
HONG KONG HAS A RECORD CONTAINER THROUGHPUT OF ALMOST 8 MILLION TEUS (TWENTY-FOOT EQUIVALENT UNITS) LAST YEAR, THE MARINE DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY).
THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF MARINE (PLANNING AND LOCAL SERVICES), MR JOHN SHEARMAN, SAID: "THE OVERALL CONTAINER THROUGHPUT FOR 1992 WAS 7,972,235 TEUS, AN INCREASE OF 29.4 PER CENT OR 1,810,323 TEUS AS COMPARED WITH 1991.
"THE RESULTS SHOW A STARTLING INCREASE OVER 1991, AND THE AVERAGE INCREASE HAS REMAINED STEADY AT OVER 25 PER CENT THROUGHOUT 1992, INDICATING CONTINUING STRONG GROWTH.
"IN PARTICULAR, THE TOTAL THROUGHPUT OF LOADED TEUS, THAT IS EXPORT AND/OR RE-EXPORT CARGO, SHOWS THE SAME STARTLING GROWTH RATE WHICH IS ALSO 28.6 PER CENT, AND CLEARLY REFLECTS SUSTAINED LOCAL BUSINESS CONFIDENCE IN THE FACE OF CONTINUING WORLD RECESSION."
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF CONTAINERS HANDLED AT THE KWAI CHUNG CONTAINER PORT INCREASED BY 12.5 PER CENT AS COMPARED WITH 1991.
"BUT THE BIGGEST INCREASES ARE FROM THOSE HANDLED IN THE STREAM AND FROM VESSELS TRADING BETWEEN THE PEARL RIVER DELTA PORTS AND HONG KONG (RIVER TRADE), WHICH SHOW INCREASES OF 60 PER CENT AND 379.9 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY," MR SHEARMAN SAID.
FOLLOWING IS THE TABLE FOR THE COMPARATIVE CONTAINER STATISTICS FOR 1991 AND 1992:
KWAI CHUNG TERMINALS 1991 1992 CHANGE IN PERCENTAGE
TOTAL TEUS 4,514,410 5,078,893 12.5
STREAM AND ELSEWHERE TOTAL TEUS 1 ,597,579 2,556,795 60.0
RIVER TRADE TOTAL TEUS 74,378 356,949 379.9
THROUGHPUT (KWAI CHUNG TERMINALS + STREAM AND ELSEWHERE + RIVER TRADE)
TOTAL TEUS 6,161,912
7,972,235
29.4
/H .....
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
11
GROUP TO STUDY IMPLICATIONS OF SHARE ISSUES *****
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (DESIGNATE) OF THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY, MR JOSEPH YAM, HAD SET UP AN INTERNAL WORKING GROUP TO ASSESS THE MONETARY AND BANKING IMPLICATIONS OF LARGE NEW SHARE ISSUES.
THE WORKING GROUP, COMPRISING THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING AND OTHER SENIOR OFFICIALS OF THE OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING AND OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND, INTENDS TO CONCLUDE ITS WORK AND FORMULATE RECOMMENDATIONS, IF ANY, IN ABOUT ONE MONTH’S TIME.
-----0-------
1993 COIN COLLECTIONS ON SALE
*****
THE OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND HAS ARRANGED FOR PROOF AND BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED COIN COLLECTIONS TO BE PRODUCED FOR SALE TO THE PUBLIC FROM NEXT MONDAY (FEBRUARY 15).
THIS IS TO COMMEMORATE THE INTRODUCTION OF THE NEW DESIGN COINS FEATURING A BAUHINIA FLOWER, WHICH ARE GRADUALLY REPLACING THE TERRITORY’S PRESENT CIRCULATION.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE OFFICE SAID: "EACH COLLECTION COMPRISES SEVEN COINS RANGING FROM THE 10-CENT COIN TO THE $10 COIN, ALTHOUGH ONLY THE $2 AND $5 COINS ARE NOW IN CIRCULATION."
"ALL THE COINS ARE DATED 1993, EVEN THOUGH THE $10 AND 10-CENT COINS WILL NOT BE PUT INTO CIRCULATION THIS YEAR. THIS SHOULD ADD SUBSTANTIAL NUMISMATIC VALUE TO THE COIN COLLECTIONS," HE ADDED.
THE HIGHLY PRIZED PROOF COINS HAVE BEEN METICULOUSLY PRODUCED AND ARE FAR SUPERIOR IN QUALITY TO COINS IN GENERAL CIRCULATION. THEY ARE SEALED IN A SPECIAL RED PRESENTATION CASE.
"WORLDWIDE SALES OF THE PROOF COIN COLLECTIONS WILL BE LIMITED TO 30,000 SETS, OF WHICH 25,000 SETS ARE AVAILABLE TO HONG KONG," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED COINS COME PROTECTED AND SEALED WITHIN A COLOURFUL AND ATTRACTIVE PRESENTATION FOLDER. WHILST NOT OF PROOF QUALITY, THEY ARE SUPERBLY CRAFTED AND ARE AVAILABLE IN UNLIMITED QUANTITIES.
"THE PROOF AND BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED COIN COLLECTIONS, PRICED AT $380 AND $128 RESPECTIVELY, WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM NEXT MONDAY AT THE DESIGNATED BRANCHES OF HONGKONGBANK AND ALL BRANCHES OF THE OVERSEAS TRUST BANK," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE ADDED THAT THE COIN SETS WOULD BE ON SALE ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS.
/IN VIEW .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
12
IN VIEW OF THE LIMITED EDITION OF THE PROOF COIN COLLECTIONS, SALES WILL BE RESTRICTED TO FIVE SETS PER PERSON.
“NET PROCEEDS FROM THE SALES OF THE COMMEMORATIVE COIN SETS WILL BE USED TO FINANCE, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, CAREFULLY SELECTED PROJECTS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE COMMUNITY,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
A LIMITED QUANTITY OF THE 1988 PROOF AND BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED COIN COLLECTIONS, COMPRISING SEVEN COINS RANGING FROM THE FIVE-CENT TO THE $5 COIN, ARE STILL AVAILABLE AT THE TWO BANKS.
------0-------
ART WORKS FOR APEC SECRETARIAT ♦ » * * »
THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT HAS DONATED A SCULPTURE AND A HUGE COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINT TO THE ASIA PACIFIC ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION (APEC) TO CELEBRATE THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF ITS SECRETARIAT OFFICE IN SINGAPORE.
THE SCULPTURE, ENTITLED ’’NEW BORN”, IS A PIECE CREATED BY LOCAL SCULPTOR VAN LAU, WHILE THE PHOTOGRAPH SHOWS THE MAGNIFICENT SKYLINE OF HONG KONG. THEY WILL BE PUT ON DISPLAY IN THE NEW SECRETARIAT OFFICE.
DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE, MR DONALD TSANG, AND ASSISTANT DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE, MR JOHN TSANG, WILL LEAVE FOR SINGAPORE TONIGHT (THURSDAY) TO ATTEND THE OPENING CEREMONY.
THEY WILL STAY IN SINGAPORE FOR TWO DAYS AND WILL EXCHANGE VIEWS ON MATTERS OF MUTUAL INTEREST WITH THE MINISTER FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, AND WITH GOVERNMENT OFFICERS.
THE APEC SECRETARIAT IS SET UP TO FACILITATE AND CO-ORDINATE ITS ACTIVITIES AND ENHANCE ITS EFFICIENCY IN PROMOTING ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION.
THE OFFICE IS HEADED BY AN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR WHO IS ASSISTED BY A DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. FIVE FUNCTIONAL OFFICES WILL BE ESTABLISHED AND FILLED BY PROFESSIONAL STAFF SECONDED FROM APEC MEMBER ECONOMIES.
THE HONG KONG SECONDEE WILL BE IN CHARGE OF ONE OF THESE FUNCTIONAL OFFICES AND BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OVERALL ADMINISTRATION OF THE APEC SECRETARIAT, INCLUDING PERSONNEL AND FINANCE.
AT PRESENT, ABOUT 80 PER CENT OF HONG KONG’S TRADE IS WITH ECONOMIES IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION, AND APEC, AS AN IMPORTANT GOVERNMENT-TO-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATION OF WHICH HONG KONG IS A MEMBER, IS FAST BECOMING THE LEADING FORUM FOR PROMOTING REGIONAL ECONOMIC AND TRADE CO-OPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT.
/APEC COMPRISES .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
13
APEC COMPRISES 15 MEMBERS, INCLUDING USA, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, HONG KONG, JAPAN, SOUTH KOREA, CHINA, CHINESE TAIPEI AND THE SIX ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH EAST NATIONS COUNTRIES, NAMELY BRUNEI, INDONESIA, MALAYSIA, PHILIPPINES, SINGAPORE AND THAILAND.
HONG KONG BECAME A MEMBER OF APEC IN 1991, ALONG WITH CHINA AND CHINESE TAIPEI.
CONTRACT FOR TSUEN WAN ELEVATED WALKWAY IMPROVEMENTS SIGNED
♦ * ♦ * *
THE CROWDED CONDITION OF THE ELEVATED WALKWAY SYSTEM OUTSIDE TSUEN WAN MTR STATION WILL BE IMPROVED AFTER WORKS FOR EXTENDING AND WIDENING THE WALKWAY ARE COMPLETED IN IS MONTHS.
THE CONTRACT FOR THE $17.6 MILLION WORKS WAS SIGNED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE PROJECT MANAGER OF THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT’S TSUEN WAN DEVELOPMENT OFFHE, MR TANG KWOK-KEI, AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE CONTRACTOR, HUNG MAC < < INSTRUCT I ON COMPANY.
’’WORKS UNDER THE CONTRACT UOMPRISI- MAINIA THE CONSTRUCTION OF THREE WALKWAYS LINKING TSUEN WAN MIR STATION, TSUEN WAN GOVERNMENT OFFICE COMPLEX AND THEIR RESPECTIVE ADJACENT PREMISES.
’’THE CONTRACT ALSO INCLUDES THE WIDENING OF TWO SECTIONS OF THE EXISTING TSUEN WAN MTR STATION EXTERNAL WALKWAYS,” MR TANG SAID.
THE WORKS WILL BEGIN NEXT TUESDAY ( Fl BRUAin 16).
’’UPON COMPLETION, THE IMPROVED ELEVATED WALKWAY SYSTEM WILL PROVIDE A MORE DIRECT ACCESS TO ITS ADJACENT PREMISES, AND ITS PEDESTRIAN CAPACITY WILL BE INCREASED,” MR TANG SAID.
SEMINAR ON AIDS PREVENTION
A SEMINAR ON AIDS PREVENTION FOR MEMBERS OF PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATIONS AND MAJOR SPONSORING BODIES WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 13) AT THE TRUE LIGHT GIRLS’ COLLEGE, WATERLOO ROAD.
THE SEMINAR IS JOINTLY ORGANISED IH THE AND THE HONG KONG AIDS FOUNDATION.
EDUCATION
DEPARTMENT
PHE CHAIRMAN Op THE FOUNDATION, MRS PEGGY LAM; CONSULTANT
PHYSICIAN OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY, DR PATRICK C K LI; HEADMASTER OF THE CHINESE METHODIST SCHOOL (NORTH POINT PM SESSION), MR CHAN HING-CHEUNG; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE OF THE FOUNDATION, DR ANDREW W H WONG, WILL ADDRESS THE SEMINAR.
/DISCUSSION TOPICS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
14
DISCUSSION TOPICS Wild, INCLUDE AIDS AND ITS PREVENTION, PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES AGAINST AIDS AND LEGAL MATTERS CONCERNING AIDS IN SCHOOLS.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SEMINAR WHICH WILL BE HELD AT THE TRUE LIGHT GIRLS’ COLLEGE, 54A WATERLOO ROAD, KOWLOON, BETWEEN 9.30 AM AND NOON ON SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 13).
-----0------
300 TEACHERS ATTEND WORKSHOPS ON TEENAGE SUICIDE ******
ABOUT 300 SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS ATTENDED TWO WORKSHOPS ORGANISED BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TO GET A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE ISSUE OF TEENAGE SUICIDE, INCLUDING PREVENTION, INTERVENTION AND AFTER-CARE.
THE WHOLE DAY WORKSHOPS WERE HELD AT THE HONG KONG TEACHERS’ CENTRE AT NORTH POINT YESTERDAY AND TODAN (THURSDAY).
’’TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION INCLUDED AWARENESS OF SUICIDE, PREVENTION, CRISIS INTERVENTION, AFTER-CARE AND PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT. THE FORMAT INCLUDED VIDEOS, GROUP DISCUSSION AND ROLE PLAYING,” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.
HE SAID THE FIRST SERIES OF WORKSHOPS BEGAN LAST DECEMBER AND WERE ATTENDED BY MORE THAN 300 TEACHERS FROM 208 SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
"IN ORDER TO PROVIDE MORE COMPREHENSIVE INFORMATION FOR TEACHERS TO DEAL WITH THE DISTRESSING ISSUE, A RESOURCE PACKAGE ON UNDERSTANDING TEENAGE SUICIDE HAS BEEN PRODUCED. EACH SECONDARY SCHOOL HAS BEEN GIVEN THREE SETS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE RESOURCE PACKAGE IS PRODUCED BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND SPONSORED BY THE WAR KIU YAT PC) FUND FOR THE RELIEF OF UNDERPRIVILEGED CH ILDREN.
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/15.........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
15
“KEEP EASTERN GREEN” BUS PARADE » * * * »
RESIDENTS AND HOLIDAY SHOPPERS FREQUENTING THE STREETS OF EASTERN DISTRICT ON SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 13) AFTERNOON MAY HAVE THE CHANCE TO RECEIVE PACKETS OF PLANT SEEDS.
FREE BOOKLETS CONTAINING INFORMATION ON HOW TO BEAUTIFY THE ENVIRONMENT, EXOTIC TREES IN THE DISTRICT AND ENQUIRY TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS WILL ALSO BE HANDED OUT.
THESE WILL BE DISTRIBUTED BY MEMBERS OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE (EIC) TRAVELLING ON AN OPEN-TOP BUS.
AIMING TO DRIVE HOME THE MESSAGE OF IMPROVING AND PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT, THE BUS PARADE IS ORGANISED BY THE COMMITTEE’S WORKING GROUP ON GREENING ACTIVITIES.
THE GAILY DECORATED BUS WILL STOP AT PARK TOWER (NEAR TIN HAU MTR STATION EXIT), NORTH POINT FERRY PIER, SUNWAY GARDEN IN QUARRY BAY, SHAU KEI WAN TRAM TERMINUS, HENG FA CHUEN SHOPPING ARCADE AND NEW JADE GARDEN IN CHAI WAN.
TO MARK THE OPENING OF THE EVENT, A TREE-PLANTING CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT THE JUNCTION OF TAI ON STREET AND LEI KING ROAD, SAI WAN HO, AT 2.15 PM.
EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR STEVE BARCLAY; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR SHUM CHOI-SANG; AND EIC CHAIRMAN, MR KONG TZE-WING, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE CEREMONY.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE BUS PARADE CUM TREE-PLANTING CEREMONY WHICH WILL START AT 2.15 PM ON SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 13) AT THE JUNCTION OF TAI ON STREET AND LEI KING ROAD, SAI WAN HO.
------0--------
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY ♦ ♦ ♦
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON THURSDAY (FEBRUARY 11) UP TO 1.30 PM
1. GENERAL REVIEW OF MATERIAL.
2. VISIT TO UPPER-LEVELS POLICE STATION TO VIEW MODEL OF LAN KWAI FONG.
3. CORRESPONDENCE.
0
Z16
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1993
16
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
*****
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 1
$ MILLION
2,150
NIL
2, 150
NIL
NIL
2, 150
5.10 »+0.It 11.2.1993
EXCHANGE FUND
KONG GOVERNMENT
HONG
EF BILLS TERM ISSUE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.16 PCT 12 MONTHS 2402 5.50 101.80 3.68
1 MONTH 3.05 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 101.87 4.00
3 MONTHS 3.07 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.26 4.24
6 MONTHS 3.20 PCT 12 MONTHS 3.72 PCT TOTAL TURNOVER OF 21 MONTHS 2411 BILLS AND BONDS - 10 4.625 ,248MN 100.27 4.51
CLOSED 11 FEBRUARY 1993
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
GOVERNOR'S TAX POSITION ......................................... 1
GOVT ANNOUNCES THREE SENIOR APPOINTMENTS ........................ 1
NEW ICAC COMMISSIONER APPOINTED ................................. 3
EXCO AGREES TO SUBSCRIPTION TV LICENCE .......................... 3
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITIES THEME FURTHER PURSUED ................. 4
CIVIL SERVANTS FACE MORE CHALLENGES ............................. 5
QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY RESULTS FOR FOURTH QUARTER 1992 ... 6
AMBULANCEMEN PRAISED FOR RESCUE WORK ............................ 9
NEW BOOKLET ON SAVE MONEY AND THE EARTH ......................... 9
NEW CHANNEL FOR STUDENTS TO REPORT TRIADS ...................... 10
PRE-QUALIFICATION OF TENDERERS FOR WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR WORKS ........................................................ 11
BILL FOR SETTLEMENT OF SEA CLAIMS GAZETTED ..................... 12
AIR QUALITY REPORT FOR JANUARY RELEASED ........................ 13
/APPRENTICE TRAINING
APPRENTICE TRAINING HELPS INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ............... 14
DO PLEDGES BETTER COMMUNITY SERVICES ............................ 15
PUBLIC URGED TO SUPPORT SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES ................. 15
4 ACCIDENT TO ISLANDER AEROPLANE CONCLUDED ......................... 16
TELA'S RECEPTION FOR FILM ADVISORS .............................. 16
NEW MEDICAL CENTRE OPENS IN SHEUNG WAN .......................... 17
NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT SCHEME ........... 17
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY ........................................... 18
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 18
I
$
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
GOVERNOR’S TAX POSITION
******
RESPONDING TO QUESTIONS ON THE GOVERNOR’S TAX POSITION, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY):
’’THE FINANCIAL SECRETARA SAID IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON FEBRUARY 3 THAT ONCE THE MEMORANDUM ON THE QUEEN’S TAX POSITION BECOMES AVAILABLE, THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT WILL CONSIDER WHETHER THERE ARE ANY IMPLICATIONS FOR THE GOVERNOR’S TAX POSITION UNDER HONG KONG LAW. WE HAVE NOT SEEN THE MEMORANDUM ON THE QUEEN’S TAX POSITION BUT WE HOPE TO HAVE IT SOON.”
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GOVT ANNOUNCES THREE SENIOR \PPOINTMENTS
*****
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) A NUMBER OF SENIOR POSTINGS AND APPOINTMENTS WITH THE IMPENDING RETIREMENTS OF THREE OFFICERS.
IN THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, THE REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON), MR PAUL WONG KAM-CHIU, WILL BE RETIRING IN LATE MARCH.
HE WILL BE REPLACED BY MISS CHRISTINE CHOW KWAN-TAI, THE PRESENT DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER.
IN THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORI E, MR JOHN SHEPPARD, DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, WILL BE RETIRING IN LATE APRIL. HE WILL BE SUCCEEDED BY MR EDDIE HUI KI-ON, CURRENTLY SENIOR ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER.
THE COMMISSIONER OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT, MR CLIVE OXLEY, WILL RETIRE IN AUTUMN THIS YEAR. HE WILL BE REPLACED BY MR DON WATSON, SENIOR ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF POLICE.
THE FOLLOWING ARE BRIEF BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES ON THESE OFFICERS:
MR PAUL WONG KAM-CHIU, JP
AGED 56, MR WONG JOINED THE CIVIL SERVICE IN 1960. HE HAS SERVED FOR THE MAJORITY OF HIS CAREER IN THE FORMER COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT AND TRADE, INDUSTRY AND CUSTOMS DEPARTMENT, WHERE HE BECAME AN ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER IN JULY 1974.
HE TRANSFERRED TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE IN JULY 1982 AND ROSE TO HIS PRESENT R\NK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE Bl IN JANUARY 1991.
MR WONG WAS DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY FROM 1982 TO 1985, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF TRADE FROM 19R5 TO 1986, DEPUTY POSTMASTER GENERAL FROM 1986 TO 1989 AND WAS SECONDED TO Till- HONG KONG EXPORT CREDIT INSURANCE CORPORATION AS COMMISSIONER BETWEEN 1989 AND 1991.
HE WAS APPOINTED REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON) IN THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION IN OCTOBER 1991.
/MISS CHRISTINE .......
I
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
MISS CHRISTINE CHOW KWAN-TAI, JP
MISS CHOW, AGED 48, FIRST JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE IN 1966 AS AN EXECUTIVE OFFICER II. SHE ROSE TO HER PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE HI IN JANUARY 1992.
DURING THE EARLY YEARS OF HER CAREER, MISS CHOW SERVED IN THE ECONOMICS, SOCIAL SERVICES AND SECURITY BRANCHES, THE THEN HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT AND FINANCE BRANCH.
FROM 1986 TO 1989, MISS CHOW SERVED IN THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND THE THEN LANDS AND WORKS BRANCH.
SHE TOOK UP HER PRESENT APPOINTMENT AS DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER IN SEPTEMBER 1989.
MR C A J SHEPPARD, OBE, QPM, JP
MR SHEPPARD, AGED 58, JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE AS A SUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE IN JANUARY 1976 AFTER SERVING THE BOTSWANA POLICE FOR SOME 20 YEARS.
HE WAS PROMOTED TO ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF POLICE IN SEPTEMBER 1982, SENIOR ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER IN MARCH 1988, DEPUTY COMMISSIONER IN DECEMBER 1989 AND HAS BEEN DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, OPERATIONS SINCE THEN.
MR SHEPPARD WAS AWARDED THE COLONIAL POLICE MEDAL IN 1981 AND THE QUEEN’S POLICE MEDAL IN 1989.
HE WAS ALSO MADE A MEMBER OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE IN 1975 AND AN OFFICER OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE TN 1992.
MR HUI KI-ON, QPM, CPM
AGED 49, MR HUI JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE AS A PROBATIONARY INSPECTOR IN FEBRUARY 1963.
HE WAS PROMOTED TO ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF POLICE IN APRIL 1984 AND SENIOR ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER TN DECEMBER 1989. SINCE DECEMBER 1, 1989 HE HAS BEEN THE DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS.
MR HUI WAS AWARDED THE COLONIAL POLICE MEDAL IN 1979 AND THE QUEEN’S POLICE MEDAL IN 1989.
MR C W B OXLEY, OBE, ED, JP
AGED 56, MR OXLEY JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE AS AN ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER IN 1969. HE WAS APPOINTED AS COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS AND EXCISE IN 1990 AND PROMOTED TO ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE A IN 1992.
ON HIS RETIREMENT, MR OXLEY WILL HAVE COMPLETED 24 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT.
/MR D M ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
3
MR D M WATSON, QPM, CPM
MR WATSON, AGED 52, JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE AS A PROBATIONARY SUB-INSPECTOR OF POLICE IN 1960.
HE WAS PROMOTED TO ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF POLICE IN 1983 AND TO SENIOR ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER IN 1988.
SINCE 1987, HE HAS HELD THE OFFICE OF DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL BRANCH.
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NEW ICAC COMMISSIONER APPOINTED
*****
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT MR BED DE SPEVILLE WILL SUCCEED THE LATE MR PETER ALLAN AS COMMISSIONER OF THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION.
MR DE SPEVILLE WILL ASSUME THE COMMISSIONERSHIP ON FEBRUARY 22, 1993.
AGED 51, MR DE SPEVILLE WAS ADMITTED TO THE MIDDLE TEMPLE IN 1964 AND WAS CALLED TO THE BAR IN 1967.
HE JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE AS A DEPUTY PRINCIPAL CROWN COUNSEL IN 1981, SERVING INITIALLY IN THE LAW DRAFTING DIVISION AND LATER MOVING ON TO BECOME SECRETARY OF THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION.
HE WAS PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF PRINCIPAL CROWN COUNSEL IN 1985 AND TO LAW OFFICER IN 1992.
SINCE 1991, MR DE SPEVILLE HAS BEEN THE SOLICITOR GENERAL OF THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
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EXCO AGREES TO SUBSCRIPTION TV LICENCE
*****
THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS AGREED IN PRINCIPLE THAT A SUBSCRIPTION TELEVISION LICENCE SHOULD BE AWARED TO WHARF CABLE LIMITED.
THIS WILL BE SUBJECT TO CONSULTATION WITH THE CHINESE SIDE AND THE ENACTMENT OF THE TELEVISION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993.
THE TELEVISION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 WAS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON JANUARY 13, 1993 AND A BILLS COMMITTEE HAS BEEN SET UP TO EXAMINE THE BILL.
A COPY OF THE LICENCE HAS BEEN HANDED OVER TO THE CHINESE SIDE OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT LIAISON GROUP.
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
4
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITIES THEME FURTHER PURSUED * * * * ♦
THE CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH (('SB) IS REVIEWING ITS ROLE WITHIN THE OVERALL FRAMEWORK OF PUBLIC SECTOR REFORM WITH AN ATM TO DEVELOP A SYSTEM WHICH WILL RELEASE THE ENERGY AND CREATIVITY AMONG CIVIL SERVANTS, THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, MR BARRIE WIGGHAM, SAID.
IT WILL ALSO ENTRUST IN CIVIL SERVANTS THE RESPONSIBILITY TO MANAGE AND BE ACCOUNTABLE FOft* THEIR OWN PERFORMANCE, HE ADDED.
SPEAKING AT HIS LAST ANNUAL SPRING RECEPTION FOR CIVIL SERVICE MANAGEMENT AND STAFF ASSOCIATIONS REPRESENTATIVES TODAY (FRIDAY), MR WIGGHAM SAID: "THIS IS A FURTHER \ND NATURAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE THEME OF DELEGATION OF AUTHORITIES WHICH I HAVE TRIED TO PURSUE.
”1 SEE THAT, IN FUTURE, (’SB SHOULD FOCUS MORE ON THE STRATEGIC ROLE OF DEVELOPING OVERALL POLICIES, PRACTICES AND SERVICE-WIDE STANDARDS IN HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT."
ALTHOUGH MUCH WILL HAVE TO BE DONE TO REALISE THIS VISION, HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT WITH TRUST AND CO-OPERATI ON ON ALL SIDES, THE BRANCH, DEPARTMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND ALL ('I VIL SERVANTS WOULD COLLECTIVELY MAKE THE EXERCISE A SUCCESS.
MR WIGGHAM POINTED OUT THAT AS SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, HIS OBJECTIVES WERE TO DEVELOP POLK IFS AND PRACTICES WHICH WOULD ASSIST DEPARTMENTS IN FINDING STAFF OF TH! RIGHT CALIBRE, WHILE AT THE SAME TIME ENSURING THAT CIVIL SERVANTS WERE TREATED FAIRLY.
HE ADMITTED THAT THE THREE PARTIES DID NOT ALWAYS SEE EYE TO EYE, BUT HIS EXPERIENCE OVER THE LAST THREE YEARS SHOWED THAT THE BEST WAY TO ATTEMPT TO RESOLVE ANY I) IFFERENCES WAS ”TO APPROACH EACH OTHER WITH TRUST AND UNDERSTAND I NG; TO BE WILLING TO TALK AND IF' NECESSARY MAKE COMPROMISES; AND TO BE OPEN AND SINCERE IN DEALING WITH EACH OTHER AS HUMAN BEINGS”.
"WE HAVE A COMMON INTEREST,” HE TOLD THE 100 GUESTS WHO ATTENDED THE GATHERING, ADDING THAT "WE ALL TAKE PRIDE IN HAVING A PROFESSIONAL AND EFFICIENT CIVIL SERVICE”.
MR WIGGHAM ALSO TOLD THE GATHERING THAT HONG KONG’S CIVIL SERVICE TODAY WAS SUBJECT TO "UNPARALLELED PRESSURES” FROM AN INCREASINGLY VOCAL COMMUNITY DEMANDING BETTER QUALITY AND MORE EFFICIENT SERVICES.
THERE ARE ALSO PRESSURES FROM A MORE POLITICISED LEGISLATURE AND PRESSURES RELATING MORE DIRECTLY TO THE TRANSITION BEYOND 1997.
THIS IS INDEED A TIME TO FOSTER UNITY AND TO GIVE THE CIVIL
SERVICE STRENGTH TO FACE THE (’llALLENGES AHEAD, HE STATED.
"I AM ALL TOO CONSCIOUS OF (SB’S LIMITATIONS AND WOULD APPEAL TO YOU -- MANAGERS AND LEADERS -- TO GIVE PRIORITY TO THE MANAGEMENT OF PEOPLE, TO SHOW CARE AND CONCERN, AND TO CULTIVATE A SPIRIT OF TOGETHERNESS IN THE SERVICE," HE SAID.
MR WIGGHAM, WHO WILL BE LEAVING THE CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH IN A COUPLE OF MONTHS, WILL BE POSTED TO WASHINGTON DC LATER THIS YEAR, TO TAKE CHARGE OF HONG KONG’S ECONOMIC AND TRADE OFFICE IN THE UNITED STATES.
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FRIDAY , FEBRUARY 12, 1993
5
CIVIL SERVANTS FACE MORE CHALLENGES
TO BE A CIVIL SERVANT AT THIS TIME IS MORE CHALLENGING THAN EVER, IN VIEW OF THE CHANGES THAT \RF VLI AROUND, AS WELL OF COURSE WITH THE TRANSITION IN THE RUN UP TO 1997.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, MR BARRIE WIGGHAM, SAID THIS TODAY (FRIDAY) WHEN HE REVIEWED A PASSING-OUT PARADE OF FIRE SERVICES RECRUITS AT THE FIRE SERVICES TRAINING SCHOOL.
"BUT NO MATTER WHAT CHANGES THAI' El TURF MIGHT HOLD, THE COMMUNITY’S EXPECTATION THAI’ IT C AN RELY ON THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF EFFICIENT SERVICE IN ORDER TO SAVE LIFE AND PROPERTY IN THE EVENT OF FIRE OR OTHER DISASTER WILL NEVER CHANGE," HE SAID.
MR WIGGHAM NOTED KHAT THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT WAS ONE OF THE FIRST GROUP OF DEPARTMEN IS To \NNOUN( I- I IS PERFORMANCE PLEDGES IN SUPPORT OF GOVERNMENT’S “SERVING rill- COMMIN ITY" SCHEME.
HE PAID TRIBUTE TO THE DEPARTMENT, NCI ONLY BECAUSE OF ITS SPEEDY RESPONSE TO THE SCHEME, BUT ALSO BFCAUSF THE STANDARD OF SERVICES IT PLEDGED WOULD BE REASSURING TO MEMBERS OF THF PUBLIC.
"PEOPLE WHO NEED THF SERVICES ARE INVARIABLY THOSE SUFFERING FROM MISFORTUNE, AS THEIR LIVES AND PROPERTY VRE IMPERILLED BY FIRE OR OTHER DISASTERS," HE SAID.
MR WIGGHAM RECALLED THAI' WHEN HE CYME TO HONG KONG IN 1961, THE FIRE BRIGADE (NOW THE EIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT) ONLY HAD 72 FIRE AND AMBULANCE VEHICLES HOUSED IN 19 I- I RI- STATIONS WITH V STAFF OF JUST OVER 1,000.
TODAY, HE SAID, THE DEPARTMENT IS EQUIPPED WITH 546 MODERN AND SOPHISTICATED FIRE APPLIANCES AND AMBULANCES, ACCOMMODATED IN 63 FIRE STATIONS AND 29 AMBULANCE DEPOTS AND, MOS I IMPORTANT OF ALL, MANNED BY OVER 7,000 "DEVOTED AND EXTREMELY SKILFUL I- I RI SERVICES PERSONNEL.
MR WIGGHAM SAID TODAY’S CEREMONY WAS SPEC I ALLY MEANINGFUL TO HIM AS IT WAS THF LAST TIME HE WOULD Bl- ABLE TO ATTEND A HONG KONG FIRE SERVICES FUNC TION AS THE SECRETARY FoR THF C IVII SERVICE, BEFORE HIS POSTING TO WASHINGTON.
TAKING PART IN TODAY’S P\RADI- Wl-.h’l- 100 NEW RECRI ITS U Ho HAD JUST COMPLETED A 26-WEEK INITIAL TRAINING IN THE SCHOOL.
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/6.........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
6
QI ARTERLY BUS I NESS SURVEY RESULTS FOR FOURTH QUARTER 1992 * * t t t
MANUFACTURERS GENERALLY REPORTED THAT THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF LAST YEAR WAS LARGELY THE SAME YS THE PREVIOUS QUARTER.
LOOKING AHEAD, MANUFACTURERS EXI’H I A DETERIORATION IN BOTH ASPECTS IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF THIS YEAR.
THIS IS, HOWEVER, LARGELY SEASONAL AS THE FIRST QUARTER IS USUALLY A QUIET SEASON FOR MANUFACTURING ACTIVITIES OWING TO THE LUNAR NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS.
THESE ARE SOME OF THE MAJOR RESULTS OF THE QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE < ENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
LOCAL PRICE COMPETITION REMAINED THE MOST CITED PROBLEM BY MANUFACTURERS AND WILL CONTINUE TO WORRY THEM IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
BUT THE PROBLEMS OF HIGH WAGE RATES AND MATERIAL PRICES HAD SHOWN SIGNS OF ALLEVIATION AND ARE EXPECTED TO EASE FURTHER IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
FOR INDIVIDUAL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES, THE WEARING APPAREL INDUSTRY EXPERIENCED FURTHER IMPROVEMENT IN BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION DURING THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992. THIS WAS DUE TO INCREASED ORDERS RELATED TO CHRISTMAS SALES.
ALSO THE PRESSURE OF HIGH WAGE RATES EASED Y LITTLE IN THE QUARTER.
LOOKING AHEAD, MANUFACTURERS GENERALLY EXPECT \ SEASONAL DETERIORATION IN BUSINESS SITUATION IN Till FOLLOWING QUARTER.
MANUFACTURERS FROM THE TEXTILES INDUSTRY GENERALLY EXPERIENCED A DETERIORATED GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION YND CAPACITY UTILISATION TN THE FOURTH QUARTER. TROUBLED BY I NSI TFH I ENT BUSINESS ORDERS, THEY WERE ALSO FACED WITH INCREASINGLY KEEN PRICE COMPETJTI ON.
THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY EXPERIENCED BROADLY THE SAME GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AS IN Till- PREVIOUS QUARTER, WII I LI- THE CAPACITY UTIL1SAT ION IMPROVED SLIGHTLY.
AS REGARDS BUSINESS PROBLEMS, HIGH WAGE RATES AND PREMISE RENTALS SHOWED SIGNS OF ALLEVIATION IN THE QUARTER.
MANUFACTURERS FROM THE FOOD, BEVERAGE AND TOBACCO INDUSTRY REPORTED THAT THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE QUARTER MANAGED TO REMAIN THE SAME AS THE PREVIOUS QUARTER, NOTWITHSTANDING THE FACT THAT BUSINESS IN THE FOURTH QUARTER IS USUALLY LESS ACTIVE FOR THE INDUSTRY.
/AMONG THESE .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
AMONG THESE MANUFACTURERS, THE TOBACCO M\NUFA< TURERS REPORTED AN IMPROVED GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE QUARTER, MAINLY DUE TO THE INCREASE IN ORDERS FROM CHINA.
AFTER EXPERIENCING CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT FOR SEVERAL QUARTERS, THE PRINTING INDUSTRY EXPERIENCED BROADLY THE SAMI- GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AS IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER.
THIS PROBABLY REFLECTS A CONSOL I DAT I ON OF BUSINFSS IN THE INDUSTRY AFTER CONSIDERABLE EXPANSION IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTERS.
THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY EXPERIENCED A DETERIORATION IN GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND ( APA< IIY UTILISATION IN THE FOURTH QUARTER, WITH SOME UNEXPECTED LOSS OF BUSINESS ORDERS AMONG SOME LARGE FIRMS.
LOOKING AHEAD, MANUFACTURERS GENERALLY EXPECT FURTHER DETERIORATION IN BOTH ASPECTS IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR, THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION REMAINED THE SAME AS THEY WERE IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER.
LOOKING AHEAD, THEY EXPECT THAI BUSINESS SITUATION WILL DETERIORATE SLIGHTLY WHILE CAPACITY UTILISATION WILL REMAIN BROADLY THE SAME IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
REGARDING BUSINESS PROBLEMS, PRICE COMPETITION FROM LOCAL FIRMS REMAINED THE MOST FREQUENTLY QUOTED PROBLEM IN THE SECTOR.
MOST OF THE FIRMS FROM THE INDUSTRY OF REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED SERVICES REPORTED THAT THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION HAD REMAINED BROADLY THE SAME AS THEY’ WERE IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER.
LOOKING AHEAD, FIRMS IN THIS TRADE GENERALLY EXPECT THAT THE BUSINESS SITUATION WILL REMAIN THE SAME IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
AS REGARDS THE WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, THE GENERAL/ BUSINESS SITUATION IMPROVED FURTHER IN THE QUARTER, WHICH IS A HIGH SEASON FOR RETAIL SALES.
LOOKING AHEAD, FIRMS FROM THE DISTRIBUTIVE TRADES GENERALLY EXPECT THAT THE FAVOURABLE BUSINESS SITUATION WILL CONTINUE INTO THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
NONETHELESS, THE FIRMS WILL STILL HAVE TO COPE' WITH KEEN PRICE COMPETITION, HIGH STAFF COSTS AND RENTALS.
RESTAURANT OPERATORS EXPERIENCED AN IMPROVED GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION IN THE QUARTER, WHICH IS USUALLY A HIGH SEASON FOR RESTAURANT BUSINESS.
LOOKING AHEAD, RESTAURANT OPERATORS GENERALLY EXPECT A SLIGHT FURTHER IMPROVEMENT IN BOTH BUSINFSS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION.
THE MAJORITY OF HOTEL OPERATORS RI'PORTED IMPROVEMENT IN THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION IN THE QUARTER.
/LOOKING AHEAD .......
8
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
LOOKING AHEAD, THEY EXPECT THAT BOTH ASPECTS WILL DETERIORATE IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER WHEN A LOW SEASON OF BUSINESS SETS IN.
FOR THE BANKING INDUSTRY, THE MAJORITY OF BANKS REPORTED THAT THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE QUARTER WAS JUST BROADLY THE SAME AS IT WAS IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER, ALTHOUGH IMPROVEMENT NORMALLY OCCURS IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.
THE INDUSTRY WAS TROUBLED PARTICULARLY BY KEEN PRICE COMPETITION, SHORTAGE OF EXPERIENCED STAFF AND HIGH STAFF COSTS. LOOKING AHEAD, THE BANKS GENERALLY EXPECT THAT THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION WILL DETERIORATE IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
ABOUT 1,000 FIRMS FROM \\R|OLS INDI STRIPS \ND TRADES, FORMING A CROSS-SECTION OF THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY, PARTICIPATED IN THE SURVEY.
THEY WERE ASKED ABOUT THEIR BUSINESS EXPERIENCES AND EXPECTATIONS AS WELL AS THE BUSINESS PROBLEMS Till Y FACED.
THE RESULTS OF THE QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY, OBTAINED WITH A MINIMUM TIME LAG, ARE INTENDED TO PROVIDE A SOURCE OF REFERENCE FOR MAKING A QUICK ASSESSMENT OF THE CURRENT ECONOMIC’ SITUATION OF HONG KONG FROM A SHORT-TERM PERSPECTIVE.
IN THE SURVEY, PARTICIPATING FIRMS WERE ASKED TO INDICATE WHETHER, IN THEIR OPINION, THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND THE LEVEL OF CAPACITY UTILISATION HAD ’IMPROVED’, ’REMAINED THE SAME’ OR ’DETERIORATE’ IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992 AS COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING QUARTER.
THEY WERE ALSO ASKED TO INDICATE WHETHER THE SITUATION IS EXPECTED TO ’IMPROVE’, ’REMAIN THE SAME’ OR ’DETERIORATE’ IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 199.3.
THE OPINIONS OF RESPONDENTS WERE THEN YNALYSED AND THE SUMMARY FINDINGS PUBLISHED IN THE "REPORT ON QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY, FOURTH QUARTER 1992".
MOREOVER, THE SURVEY REPORT CONTAINS A SECTION ON THE BUSINESS PROBLEMS EXPERIENCED AND EXPECTED BY FIRMS IN THE DIFFERENT ECONOMIC SECTORS, AND A BREAKDOWN OF THE VIEWS OF FIRMS BY' EMPLOYMENT SIZE GROUP.
THE DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT I’ll \ T IN A SURVEY OF THIS NATURE, THE RESULTS SHOULD BE INTERPRETED WITH CAUTION AS IT WAS DIFFICULT TO ESTABLISH PRECISELY THE EXTENT TO WHICH RESPONDENTS’ RECOLLECT ION OF THE PAST AND PERCEPTION OF THE FUTURE ACCORDED WITH THE UNDERLYING TRENDS.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY BUY THE SURVEY REPORT FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, OR FROM THE PUBLICATIONS SALES COUNTER OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, \T $9 \ COPY.
FURTHER DETAILS OF THE QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 839 .3223.
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/9.........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
9
AMBULANCEMEN PRAISED FOR RESCUE WORK
*****
NINETEEN AMBULANCEMEN WERE TODAY (FRIDAY) HIGHLY COMMENDED BY THEIR CHIEF AMBULANCE OFFICER, MR CHEUNG CHAN-CHUNG, FOR THEIR COURAGE, WHOLEHEARTEDNESS AND UNRESERVEDNESS IN DISCHARGING THEIR DUTIES IN LIFE-SAVING DURING THE LAN KWAI FONG INCIDENT ON THE NEW YEAR DAY.
SPEAKING AT THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY AT SAI WAN HO AMBULANCE DEPOT, MR CHEUNG SAID THE OFFICERS HAD MADE EVERY EFFORT TO SAVE LIFE.
SPECIAL MENTION WAS MADE ON THREE AMBULANCEMEN WHO RENDERED CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCI TAT I ON TO SERIOUSLY INJURED PERSONS BY USING DIRECT MOUTH-TO-MOUTH RESUSCITATION DISREGARDING THE RISK OF CONTRACTING POSSIBLE INFECTIOUS DISEASES.
ALL THE 19 OFFICERS WERE OFF-DUTY WHEN THE INCIDENT HAPPENED. BUT THEY VOLUNTEERED TO TAKE PART IN THE RESCUE OPERATION.
"WITH THEIR PARTICIPATION, ALL THE CASUALTIES WERE TREATED AND CONVEYED TO HOSPITALS AT THE MOST EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE MANNER," MR CHEUNG SAID.
HE ADDED THAT WITHOUT THE LEADERSHIP OF SUPERINTENDENT (AMBULANCE) LUI KWOK-FAI, AND EARLV RESUSCITATIONS AND COMPRESSIONS GIVEN TO THE INJURED, MANY MORE LIVES MIGHT HAVE BEEN LOST.
OF THEM, FOUR WERE AWARDED Till- CHIEF AMBULANCE OFFICER’S COMMENDATIONS AND THE REMAINING 15 FAVOURABLE ENTRIES.
THREE OTHER AMBULANCEMEN WERE ALSO PRESENTED WITH FAVOURABLE ENTRIES TODAY FOR THEIR EXEMPLARY PERFORMANCE VND DEVOTION TO DUTY IN A SEPARATE INCIDENT.
THEY WALKED UP 33 STOREYS OF \ BUILDING AT MEI LAM ESTATE IN SHA TIN AND CARRIED AN ELDERLY PATIENT DOWN WHEN ELECTRICITY SUPPLY WAS INTERRUPTED.
NEW BOOKLET ON SAVE MONEV AND THE EARTH *****
HAS IT EVER OCCURED TO YOU THAT YOU (’AN BOTH SAVF MONFY AND PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT?
YES, IT IS POSSIBLE AND ACTUALLY IT IS SOMETHING YOU SHOULD DO AS A RESPONSIBLE TENANT OF THIS EARTH.
A NEW BOOKLET HAS BEEN PUBLISHED JOINTLY BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) AND THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT (ISD) TO SHOW THE PUBLIC HOW THEY CAN HELP TO SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT WHILE SAVING MONEY.
"THIS SPECIALLY DESIGNED 'SAVE MONEY, SAVE THE EARTH’ BOOKLET
CONTAINS 88 EASY WAYS FOR YOU, YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO ACHIEVE THIS," AN EPD SPOKESMAN SAID.
/’’THERE ARE
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
10
"THERE ARE DVICE ON CUTTING ELECTRICITY AND WATER BILLS AT HOME, AND HOW TO SAVE TRAVIL COSTS," SHE SAID.
"IT ALSO LISTS WAYS FOR YOU TO ('I I DOWN UNNECESSARY EXPENSES AND REDUCE WASTE."
THE BOOKLET MENTIONS THAT 21,000 TONNES OF WASTE YRE DUMPED EVERYDAY. THIS INCLUDES 15 MILLION PLASTH BAGS OR 25 BUS LOADS OF SUCH BAGS.
MANY OF THESE BAGS, LIKE MUCH OF Ol R SEWAGE, I I ND LIS WAY INTO THE HARBOUR, POLLUTING THE WATERS AND KILLING MARINE LIFE.
"THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE IN THIS BOOKLET. IT PROVIDES EASY-TO-FOLLOW ADVICE ON SIMPLE EVERYDAY STEPS WHICH WHEN ADDED TOGETHER ACROSS HONG KONG, WILL GIVE ALL OF US A HAPPIER, HEALTHIER AND CLEANER FUTURE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE BOOKLET IS PUBLISHED IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE AND IS NOW AVAILABLE FREI AT I PI' OlFH'S, DISTRICT OFFICES, PUBLIC HOUS I NG ESTATE OFFICES, OUTLETS OF THE URBAN SERVICES AND REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENTS, AND GIS MARKETING OFFICE.
-----0 ------
NEK CHANNEL FOR STUDENTS TO REPORT TRIADS
*****
FORTY-EIGHT SECONDARY SCHOOLS WILL PARTICIPATE IN A STUDENT CRIME INFORMATION FORM (CIF) PILOT SCHEME, WHICH, IF PROVED EFFECTIVE, WILL SERVE AS A NEW CHANNEL FOR STUDENT TO REPORT TRIAD-RELATED MATTERS AND OTHER CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES THEY MAY COME ACROSS IN OR OUTSIDE SCHOOLS.
INTRODUCING THE PILOT SCHEME TODAY (FRIDAY), A POLICE SPOKESMAN SAID THE IDEA WAS FIRST PROPOSED BY THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE EARLY LAST YEAR AND THAT FOLLOWING A COMPREHENSIVE CONSULTATIVE PROCESS, IT HAI) RECEIVED FAVOURABLE RESPONSE FROM BOTH THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
COMMENTING ON THE SCHEME, I’HE SPOKESMAN ELABORATED THAT STUDENTS CONSTITUTED A MAJOR SOURCE OF RAW RECRUITS TO TRIAD SOCIETIES AS THEY WERE YOUNG, WEAK-WILLED AND EASY TO CONTROL.
ALTHOUGH THE NUMBER OF OFFENCES COMMITTED BY STUDENTS INVOLVED IN TRIAD ACTIVITIES IS NOT ALARMING, AS OPPOSED TO THE TOTAL STUDENT POPULATION, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THERE WAS "A NEED TO NIP THE PROBLEM IN THE BUD”.
”A SPECIALLY DESIGNED STUDENT CIF, WHICH IS SIMPLE AND EASY TO FILL TN, WILL ENCOURAGE STUDENTS TO RI I’nRT TRIAD-RELATED MATTERS AND OTHER CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES TO I HE POLHI," HI SAID.
THE STUDENI (IF SERVES TO COMPLEMENT OTHER (RIME REPORTING METHODS SUCH AS THE 999 EMERGENCY ( ALI , Till- POLK I IF TLI‘ F 527 7 1 77
AND THE TRIAD HOTLINE 527 7887.
/THE STUDENT .......
11
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
THE STUDENT CIE IS AN EXTENSION OF THE CURRENT CIF SCHEME WHICH HAS BEEN SUCCESSFUL 1'0 HAVE TODAY INCLUDED IN ITS NETWORK SOME 700 DISTRIBUTION OUTLETS.
’’SINCE 1980 WHEN THE CIF SCHEME WAS FIRST IMPLEMENTED, A TOTAL OF 14,848 COMPLETED CIFs WERE RECEIVED, RESULTING IN 4,192 ARRESTS. THIS FIGURE SPEAKS FOR ITSELF THAT THE SCHEME IS EFFECTIVE IN HELPING THE POLICE IN OBTAINING INFORMATION FROM THE PUBLIC," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE STI'DI \ I CIF PILOT SCIIEMI- WILL Bl* ON TRIAL FOR \ PERIOD OF SIX MONTHS. Till- 18 PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS (OMI FROM TWO POLICE DISTRICTS, WONG TAJ SIN AND WESTERN WHICH HAVE FEWER NUMBERS OF SCHOOLS, COMPARED TO OTHER DISTRICTS, THEREBY ALLOWING A MORE STRINGENT ASSESSMENT BE MADE OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE SCHEME.
’’INFORMATION RECEIVED THROUGH THE STUDENT CIF ANT) THE IDENTITY OF THE INFORMANT WILL BE TREATED IN STRUT CONFIDENCE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"HEADMASTERS WILL DECIDE WHERE TO PLACE THE CIF HOLDERS TO MAKE THE FORM EASILY AVAILABLE AND Till USERS LESS PRONE TO BE VICTIMISED,"THE SPOKESMAN \DDED.
ROUTINE VISITS WILL BE MADE BY SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICERS TO MONITOR IF ANY PROBLEMS WILL ARISE.
THE SCHEME WILL BE PUT UNDER REVIEW, FOLLOWING THE SIX-MONTH TRIAL, TO ASSESS THE SUITABILITY Ol A I t LI. IMPLEMENTATION IN ALL SECONDARY SCHOOLS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.
------0-------
PRE-QUALIFICATION OF TENDERERS FOR WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR WORKS ♦ * * * *
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING CONTRACTORS TO APPLY FOR PRE-QUALIFICATION FOR TENDERING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE YAU MA TEI SECTION PHASE II OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR AND ASSOCIATED FOOTBRIDGE AND SUBWAY SYSTEM.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID WORKS INVOLVED THE CONSTRUCTION OF A DUAL TWO-TO THREE-LANE FLYOVER EXTENSION OF ABOUT 650 ME’I’RES LONG ALONG FERRY STREET ACROSS WATERLOO ROAD JUNCTION WITH FOUR CONNECTING RAMPS.
A 400-METRE TWO-LANE UPRAMP ALONG CHERRY STREET TO LINK WITH THE EXISTING NORTHBOUND FLYOVER IN TAI KOK TSUI ROAD WILL ALSO BE CONSTRUCTED.
THE ASSOCIATED FOOTBRIDGE WORKS INVOLVED TWO FOOTBRIDGE SYSTEMS ALONG FERRY STREET AT ITS JUNCTION WITH DUNDAS STREET AND WATERLOO ROAD AND A NEW PEDESTRIAN SUBWAY ACROSS FERRY STREET NEAR PUBLIC SQUARE STREET.
/OTHER WORKS ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
12
OTHER WORKS INCLUDED A SECTION OF ADVANCED TUNNEL WORKS FOR THE CENTRAL KOWLOON ROUTE ACROSS FERRY STREET AT ITS JUNCTION WITH TUNG KUN STREET INVOLVING TWO DIAPHRAGM WALLS AND BARRETTES TOGETHER WITH A TOP SLAB BETWEEN THE DIAPHRAGM WALLS; AND OTHER ASSOCIATED GROUND LEVEL ROADWORKS AND EXTENSIVE DRAINAGE WORKS.
DETAILS OF THE PRE-QUALIIFICAT ION NOTICE ARE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
TENDERS FROM THE PREQUALIFIED CONTRACTORS WILL BE CALLED LATER THIS YEAR. CONSTRUCTION IS EXPECTED TO START IN NOVEMBER THIS YEAR AND WILL BE COMPLETED AROUND AUGUST 1996.
CONTRACTORS ON THE APPROVED CONTRACTORS FOR PUBLIC WORKS LIST I GROUP C CONFIRMED FOR ROADS AND DRAINAGE WORKS, OR ON LIST II CONFIRMED FOR ROADS AND DRAINAGE WORKS, OR JOINT VENTURES OF THE SAID LIST I AND LIST II APPROVED CONTRACTORS CAN APPLY TO THE REGIONAL HIGHWAY ENGINEER, HIGHWAYS/KOWLOON REGION, HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT, ROOM 207, ANNEX BUILDING, FARM ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 11 FARM ROAD, KOWLOON FOR PRE-QUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS.
CLOSING DATE FOR PRE-QUAL IFI CAT ION APPLICATION IS NOON ON MARCH 12 (FRIDAY).
--.-0-------
BILL FOR SETTLEMENT OF SEA CLAIMS GAZETTED *****
THE MERCHANT SHIPPING (LIMITATION OF SHIPOWNERS LIABILITY) BILL, PROPOSING TO GIVE EFFECT IN HONG KONG TO TWO INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS, THE ATHENS CONVENTION ON THE CARRIAGE OF PASSENGERS AND THEIR LUGGAGE BY SEA 1974 AND THE CONVENTION ON LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR MARITIME CLAIMS 1976, WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE PRINCIPAL SURVEYOR (MULTI-LATERAL POLICY) OF THE MARINE DEPARTMENT, MR DUNCAN DRUMMOND, SAID: "THE BILL WILL REPLACE UNITED KINGDOM LEGISLATION WHICH IS AT PRESENT APPLIED TO HONG KONG, THEREBY ENABLING HONG KONG TO APPLY THESE TWO INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS BY MEANS OF ITS OWN DOMESTIC LEGISLATION.”
"THE CONVENTIONS PROVIDE FOR THE SETTLEMENT OF CLAIMS ARISING FROM THE CARRIAGE OF PASSENGERS AND THEIR LUGGAGE BY SEA ON INTERNATIONAL VOYAGES, AND THE LIMITATION OF LIABILITY OF SHIPOWNERS AND SALVORS IN RESPECT OF CERTAIN MARITIME CLAIMS," HE SAID.
THE BILL LOCALISES THE EXISTING UNITED KINGDOM LEGISLATION, AND DOES NOT INTRODUCE ANY NEK PROVISION. IT WILL HOWEVER BE POSSIBLE TO AMEND THE LEGISLATION IN THE FUTURE II NEED ARISES.
IT WILL BE INTRODUCED INTO THE FEBRUARY 24 FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
LEGISLATIVE
COUNCIL ON
-----0------
Z13.........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
- 13 -
AIR QUALITY REPORT FOR JANUARY RELEASED
*****
?
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) TODAY (FRIDAY) RELEASED AIR QUALITY INFORMATION FOR JANUARY 1993.
AN EPD SPOKESMAN SAID THE PURPOSE OF THE ANNOUNCEMENT WAS TO MAKE THE PUBLIC MORE AWARE OF THE AIR QUALITY LEVELS TO WHICH THEY MIGHT BE EXPOSED.
THE ANNOUNCEMENT NORMALLY CONTAINS MONITORING RESULTS OBTAINED AT ITS MONG KOK, CENTRAL/WESTERN AND KWAI CHUNG MONITORING STATIONS.
THESE LOCATIONS ARE TYPICAL OF THREE OF THE IMPORTANT LAND USE TYPES FOUND TN THE TERRITORY, NAMELY:
♦ LOCATIONS CLOSE TO ROAD TRAFFIC IN BUILT-UP URBAN DISTRICTS,
♦ COMBINED COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS, AND
* DISTRICTS CLOSE TO INDUSTRIAL AREAS.
THE REPORTED AIR POLLUTANTS INCLUDE SULPHUR DIOXIDE (SO2), NITROGEN DIOXIDE (NO2), RESPIRABLE SUSPENDED PARTICULATES (RSP) AND TOTAL SUSPENDED PARTICULATES (TSP).
THE GASEOUS POLLUTANTS ARE MONITORED CONTINUOUSLY WHILE PARTICLE SAMPLES ARE COLLECTED FOR 24 HOURS, ONCE EVERY SIX DAYS.
IN JANUARY, THE CONCENTRATIONS OF ALL SPECIES WERE BELOW THE HOURLY AND 24-HOUR AIR QUALITY OBJECTIVE VALUES THROUGHOUT THE MONTH, ALTHOUGH AT MONG KOK THE 24-HOUR NO2 CONCENTRATIONS WERE A SUBSTANTIAL PROPORTION OF THE 150UG/M3 AIR QUALITY OBJECTIVE.
CONCENTRATIONS VARIED SIMILARLY AT ALL SITES INDICATING THAT THE VARIATIONS WERE PRIMARILY THE RESULT OF REGIONAL METEOROLOGY RATHER THAN THE INFLUENCE OF LOCAL SOURCES.
THE FOUR POLLUTANTS DISCUSSED HAVE DIFFERENT ORIGINS. SO2 MOSTLY ORIGINATES FROM THE COMBUSTION OF SULPHUR CONTAINING FOSSIL FUELS. NO2 IS FORMED EITHER DIRECTLY DURING COMBUSTION OR, BY THE ATMOSPHERIC OXIDATION OF NITRIC OXIDE (NO) WHICH IS ALSO PRODUCED DURING COMBUSTION.
VEHICLE EXHAUST IS A MAJOR SOURCE OF NO AND NO2. VEHICLE EXHAUST IS ALSO A MAJOR SOURCE OF AIRBORNE PARTICLES; OTHER SOURCES INCLUDE INDUSTRY, FURNACES AND BOILERS, CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES, THE SEA AND SOIL DUST.
THE EPD MONITORS AIR QUALITY CONTINUOUSLY AT 11 STATIONS, INCLUDING THE THREE MENTIONED ABOVE.
/SHORT-TERM .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
14
SHORT-TERM MEASUREMENT WHERE THE NEED ARISES.
CAMPAIGNS ARE ALSO UNDERTAKEN
AS AND
NOTE TO EDITORS:
FURTHER ENQUIRY CAN BE DIRECTED
PROTECTION OFFICER, MR R LEUNG ON TEL 594
TO PRINCIPAL 6401 .
ENVIRONMENTAL
- - 0-------------
APPRENTICE TRAINING HELPS INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS
*****
IT IS IMPORTANT FOR HONG KONG TO TRAIN A SUFFICIENT NUMBER OF CRAFTSMEN FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF ITS INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS, THE DIRECTOR OF ELECTRICAL ANT) MECHANICAL SERVICES, MR KWOK PING-KI, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
OFFICIATING AT A GRADUATION CEREMONY FOR GOVERNMENT CRAFT APPRENTICES, MR KWOK POINTED OUT THAT A.S HONG KONG WAS UNDERGOING CHANGES IN THE TRANSITIONAL PERIOD, THERE WAS EVEN A MORE URGENT NEED TO CONTINUE TO STRIVE FOR ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS.
HOWEVER, MR KWOK NOTED THAT A SHORTAGE OF TECHNICAL HUMAN RESOURCES WAS ONE OF THE MAIN PROBLEMS Ml OVER THE WORLD.
HE STRESSED THAT TECHNOLOGICAL EDUCATION AT EVERY STEP SHOULD BE TAKEN
WHILE THE GOVERNMENT WAS EXPANDING TERTIARY LEVEL, IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT TO TRAIN SLIFICIENT (RAFTSMEN TO WORK
TOGETHER WITH TECHNOLOGISTS AND MANAGERS SO AS TO STRIKE A BALANCE IN IMPLEMENTING THE TERRITORY’S INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS.
GRADUATING TODAY ARE 19 CRAFT APPRENTICES WHO HAVI ACQUIRED A PARTICULAR SKILL AND ARE PROFICIENT IN THEIR OWN TRADE.
’’THEY WILL BECOME THE NEW BLOOD IN THE INDUSTRY, READY TO MEET NEW CHALLENGE IN THE DEVELOPING INDUSTRY OF HONG KONG OR F\EN ABROAD,” MR KWOK SAID.
THE GOVERNMENT’S CRAFT APPRENTICES TRAINING SCHEME IS RUN BY THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
UNDER THE SCHEME, SELECTED ( AND I DATES UNDERGO A FOUR-YEAR TRA I N I NG PROGR AMM1- WH I ('ll CON PR ISES BOTH THEORETICAL KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICAL SKILL.
THEORETICAL KNOWLEDGE IS OBTAINED FROM STUDY AT THE TECHNICAL INSTITUTES, AND PRACTICAL SKILL IS ACQUIRED THROUGH A SIX-MONTH BASIC TRAINING AT THE APPRENTICE TRAINING CENTRE, FOLLOWED BY A THREE-YEAR ON-THE-JOB TRAINING IN VARIOUS SECTIONS OL THE PARTICIPATING DEPARTMENTS.
/’’THE PRESENT.......
15
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
"THE PRESENT ANNUAL RECRUITMENT FIGURE FOR CRAFT APPRENTICES IS 100 DIVIDED BY TWO INTAKES AT A SIX-MONTH INTERVAL. AT PRESENT, 321 CRAFT APPRENTICES ARE RECEIVING TRAINING UNDER THIS SCHEME.
"SINCE THE LAUNCHING OF THE SCHEME IN 1969, SOME 2,000 CRAFT APPRENTICES HAVE SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED THEIR TRAINING AND MOST OF THEM HAVE BEEN RETAINED IN THE GOVERNMENT AS SUPERVISORS AND CRAFTSMEN," MR KWOK SAID.
- - - - 0----
DO PLEDGES BETTER COMMUNITY SERVICES
*****
THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICE WILL CONTINUE TO STRENGTHEN TIES WITH LOCAL ORGANISATIONS FOR BETTER SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE POK OI HOSPITAL TIN SHUI WAI AFTER SCHOOL DAY CARE CENTRE THIS (FRIDAY) AFTERNOON, YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR ROBIN MCLEISH, SAID THIS WAS IN LINE WITH THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TO IMPROVE THE TERRITORY’S WELFARE SERVICES.
"TO FURTHER ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF THE SERVICES WE PROVIDE, IT WOULD BE MOST USEFUL IF PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE COULD LET THE GOVERNMENT HAVE THEIR OPINIONS FOR REFERENCE," HE SAID.
TURNING TO THE GOVERNOR’S CONSTITUTIONAL BLUEPRINT, MR MCLEISH URGED PEOPLE TO GIVE THEIR VIEWS.
"IN THIS WAY, I BELIEVE THE ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS WILL BE FAIR AND APPROPRIATE," HE SAID.
------0-------
PUBLIC URGED TO SUPPORT SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES *****
THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR IAN STRACHAN, TODAY (FRIDAY) CALLED ON THE COMMUNITY TO CONTINUE TO SUPPORT THE DELIVERY OF ALL SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES.
HE MADE THE PLEA WHEN ADDRESSING A SPRING RECEPTION ORGANISED BY THE EASTERN/WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
THE GOVERNOR HAD INJECTED CONSIDERABLE FUND FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL SECURITY, CHILD CARE, FAMILY WELFARE, ELDERLY AND REHABILITATION SERVICES IN THE NEXT FOUR YEARS, HE NOTED.
"WE HOPE TO SEE TREMENDOUS IMPROVEMENT BOTH IN THE QUANTITY AND QUALITY OF THESE WELFARE SERVICES TO MEET THE NEEDS OF PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY AND TO REDUCE SERVICE SHORTFALLS.
"I, THEREFORE, APPEAL FOR THE PUBLIC’S CONTINUOUS SUPPORT IN ALL THESE SERVICES, PARTICULARLY THOSE FOR DISABLED PERSONS, SO THAT WE COULD ENABLE THEM TO INTEGRATE INTO THE COMMUNITY AND TO LEAD AS NORMAL A LIFE AS THEIR CAPABILITIES PERMIT," MR STRACHAN SAID.
------o-------
/16 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
16
ACCIDENT TO ISLANDER XEROPLANE CONCLUDED
*****
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE (RHKAAF) SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT INVESTIGATORS HAD CONCLUDED THAT THE ACCIDENT ON DECEMBER 15, LAST YEAR WHICH RESULTED IN THE DITCHING OF AN RHKAAF ISLANDER AEROPLANE IN TOLO HARBOUR, WAS CAUSED BY PILOT ERROR.
THE AEROPLANE WAS ON A ROUTINE TRAINING FLIGHT I’O PRACTISE STEEP TURNS AND STALLS.
ON THE FIRST STALL, BOTH ENGINES FAILED AND THE TWO PILOTS WERE UNABLE TO RESTART THEM. THE AIRCRAFT LANDED TN THE SEA AND THE CREW WERE RESCUED BY HELICOPTER.
THE CAUSE OF THE ENGINE STOPPAGE IS THOUGHT TO HAVE BEEN THE BUILD UP OF ICING IN THE CARBURETTOR. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED IF THE CORRECT PROCEDURES HAD BEEN FOLLOWED.
APPROPRIATE REMEDIAL AND DISCIPLTNARY MEASURES ARE TO BE TAKEN.
THE AIRCRAFT, WHICH WAS SALVAGED I ROM THE SEA FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE INVESTIGATION, IS BEYOND ECONOMIC REPAIR.
-----0-----
TELA’S RECEPTION FOR FILM ADVISORS
*****
THE TELEVISION XND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING TODAY (FRIDAY) PAID TRIBUTE TO THE PANEI OF FILM AUTHORITY’S SPRING RECEPTION.
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF REVIEW (FILM REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE MOTION PK’TURI- INDUSTRY HONG KONG THEATRES ASSOCIATION AND THE DIRECTORS PRESENT AT THE RECEPTION.
UTIIoRITY (TELA)
ADVISORS AT THE
CENSORSHIP) AND
ASSOCIATION, THE
GUILD WERE ALSO
IHE PANEL Oh I I LM \D'. I SOKS WAS FSTVBLISHED IN 1976 TO ADVISE TELA ON THE EXAMINATION AND CLASS I Fl ( XT I ON Ol FILMS FOR PUBLIC EXHIBITION.
IN 1992, NEARLY 1,200 FILMS WERE EXAMINED AND APPROVED FOR
EXHIBITION.
THERE ARE NOW 287 ADVISORS ON THE DIFFERENT BXCKGROUNDS R ANGI NG I ROM PROFESSIONALS TO SOI I AL WORKERS, REPRESENTING A WIDE CROSS SECTION ol- THE
PANFI AND THEA COME FROM EX El I FIX BUSINESSMEN,
I I- AC IIFRS XND HOUSEWIVES, COMMUNITY.
A MAJOR EXERCISE WAS LAUNCHED RECENTLY TO RECRUIT MEMBERS OF THE CENTRAL AND DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEES AND STUDENTS AGED 18 TO 21 FROM POST-SECONDARY INSTITUTIONS TO SERVE ON THE PANEL IN ORDER TO FURTHER ENHANCE ITS REPRESENTATION.
/EACH ADVISOR .......
17
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
EACH ADVISOR IS REQUESTED TO ATTEND A FILM VIEWING SESSION ONCE EVERY TWO WEEKS AND FIVE TO SIX VDVISORS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND EACH SESSION.
AT THE END OF EACH SESSION, THI VDVISORS VRF INVITED TO EXPRESS THEIR OPINION ON THE STANDARDS OF nil FILM VIEWED AND ITS CLASSIFICATION B\ COMPLETING \ QUESTIONNAIRE \N|) DISCUSSING W I TH THE OFFICER OF TFL.V RESPONS I Bl.I- FOR EXAMINING I HI FILM.
------0-------
NEW MEDIC AI CENTRE OPENS |‘. SHU NG WAN ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS’ PLAN TO FURTHER DEVELOP PRIMARY HEALTH CARE AND HEALTH F’DI’c \TION IS IN LINE WITH THE GOVERNMENT’S FOLK'S OF IMPROVING IEDICAI \ND HEALTH SERVICES TO ACHIEVE THE I’ARGET OF "HEALTH FOR ALL", Illi DIRECTOR OF HEALTH DR S H LEE, SAID FODAV (FRIDAY).
DR LEE WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE GROUP’S TSUI TSIN TONG MEDICAL CENTRE IN SHEUNG WAN.
THE NEW MEDICAL CENTRE CONSISTS OF DENTAL \ND OUT-PATIENT CLINK’S FOR STAFF AND THE TUNG WAH HERBALIST C LINK RESITED FROM THF SAME DISTRICT.
DR LEF SAID HF WAS Gl \D THAT THI GROUP WOULD CONSIDER EXTENDING THI OUT-PAT I EVI C 1.1 \ I ( |» > .JI. I MEMBERS Ol |||| PUHI I( AS WELL.
HE PRAISED THE GROUP FOR ITS LONG HISTORY OF OUTSTANDING RECORD IN HELPING THE POOR, THE SICK AND THE DISABLED IN HONG KONG AS THE LARGEST LOCAL CHARITABLE ORGANISATION.
"THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS IIAS A LONG HISTORY OF PROVIDING TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICAL CARI TO PATIENTS. THIS SERVICE HAS BEEN VERY POPULAR AMONG MEMBERS O| THE PUBLIC AND HAS BEEN GAINING SUPPORT FROM THE GOVERNMENT THROUGHOUT THF YEARS," HE ADDED.
-----o------
NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT SCHEME * ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAS OPENED MORE DISTRIBUTION CENTRES, FROM TWO TO FOUR, FOR PEOPLE IN THE NEW TERRITORIES TO COLLECT THE APPLICATION FORMS FOR THE NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT SCHEME.
THE APPLICATION FORMS ARE NOW WAILABLE \T:
♦ ROOM G02, LUI KEF EDUCATION SERVICES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, 269 QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG;
* YAU TSIM DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE, SEVENTH FLOOR, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 405 NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON;
/* YUEN LONG .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
18
♦ YUEN LONG DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE, YUEN LONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES AND TAI KIU MARKET, FOURTH FLOOR, 2 KIU LOK SQUARE, YUEN LONG; AND
* SHA TIN DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFHE, THIRD FLOOR, KURU HOUSE, SHA TIN.
THE ASSESSMENT SCHEME IS To LX'ABLF I EoPLE MIO POSSESS NON-COMMONWEALTH QUALIFICATIONS TO Bl ASSESSED FOK’ TEACHING IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS.
APPLICATIONS MUST Bl RITI'RNFD TO HIE IIICVTION DEPARTMENT BEFORE FEBRUARY 27.
------0--------
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY * * *
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 12) Up TO I.30 PM
1. STUDYING REPORTS AND OTHER MATERIA! O’ II? XI AI.(i \ L SQUARE.
2. REVIEWING ENTERTAINMENT AND "CLUB" LICENSING ARRANGEMENTS.
3. CORRESPONDENCE.
------0--------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT E\( HAXGl ! l XI-MONEY MARKET ODER. \ I IONS ♦ t ♦ ♦ t
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANC'D |\ rm ACCOUNT
RE VERS Al OF E\|.
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
NET I N J E C ’I’ I ON / W I T H I) R A W A L TODAY
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANC F IN Till* ACCOUNT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER Th I 114.8 1-0.3* 12.2.1993
2 , I 50
NIL
2,150
NIL
NIL
2,15 0
/HONG KONG .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1993
- 19 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF TERMS BILLS HONG KONG COUPON GOVERNMENT PR ICE BONDS YIELD
YIELD TERM ISSUE
1 WEEK 3.05 PCT 12 MONTHS 2402 5.50 101.81 3.69
1 MONTH 3.03 PCT 15 MONTHS 24 05 5.50 101.92 3.95
3 MONTHS 3.04 PCT 1R MONTHS 2108 1 . 375 100.33 4.19
6 MONTHS 3.21 PCT 21 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.39 4.44
12 MONTHS 3.65 PCT
TOTAI. TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - -1.069MN
CLOSED 12 FEBRUARY 1993
- 0 -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
HK CIRCULATION COINS ......................................... 1
ACTION IN HAND ON CAISSON SAFETY ............................. 2
MERGER IS GOOD FOR YAU TSIM AND MONG KOK: DO ................ 3
GREEN FUND FOR EASTERN .................................... 4
LUCKY VEHICLE MARKS SOLD FOR CHARITY ......................... 5
RESIDENTS URGED TO SUPPORT DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION ........... 6
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
6
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1993
1
HK CIRCULATION COINS * * *
THE OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND TODAY (SATURDAY) RELEASED DETAILS OF THE LAST ISSUES OF COINS BEARING THE QUEEN’S EFFIGY.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE OFFICE SAID:
"NOW THAT A START HAD BEEN MADE ON THE COIN REPLACEMENT EXERCISE, WHICH HAD BEEN ANNOUNCED ON NOVEMBER 24 LAST YEAR, IT WAS FELT THAT IT WOULD BE OF INTEREST, PARTICULARLY TO COIN COLLECTORS, TO HAVE FIGURES OF THE FINAL ISSUES OF THE COINS BEING REPLACED."
ONLY THREE DENOMINATIONS - THE 10-CENT, ONE-DOLLAR AND TWO-DOLLAR - WERE MINTED IN 1992.
ALL OF THE 25 MILLION ONE-DOLLAR COINS PRODUCED AND SHIPPED TO HONG KONG WERE PUT INTO CIRCULATION.
BUT OF THE 50 MILLION 10-CENT COINS PRODUCED, THE GOVERNMENT HAD ONLY TAKEN DELIVERY OF 24 MILLION AND ALL OF THESE WERE ISSUED.
THE BALANCE OF THE ORDER FOR THIS DENOMINATION WAS BEING HELD BY THE MINT AND WOULD BE SHIPPED TO HONG KONG AS AND WHEN REQUIRED.
AS TO THE TWO-DOLLAR COIN, 14 MILLION WERE PRODUCED AND SHIPPED TO HONG KONG BUT ONLY 4.37 MILLION WERE PUT INTO CIRCULATION, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE BALANCE OF 9.63 MILLION UNISSUED COINS WAS RETURNED TO THE ROYAL MINT WHERE THE COINS WILL BE MELTED DOWN AND EITHER USED TO PRODUCE NEW COINS OR SOLD AS SCRAP.
"THIS ACTION WAS TAKEN BECAUSE SUFFICIENT STOCKS OF THE NEW DESIGN TWO-DOLLAR COINS, FEATURING A BAUHIN1A FLOWER, WERE AVAILABLE TO MEET LUNAR NEW YEAR DEMAND," HE SAID.
TWENTY-CENT COINS WERE LAST PRODUCED IN 1991 AND FIFTY CENTS IN 1990. THE RESPECTIVE PRODUCTION QUANTITIES WERE 131 MILLION AND 27 MILLION.
ALL OF THE COINS HAD BEEN SHIPPED TO HONG KONG AND WERE PUT INTO CIRCULATION.
THE LAST YEAR IN WHICH FIVE-DOLLAR COINS WERE MINTED WAS 1989 WHEN 30 MILLION PIECES WERE PRODUCED AND SHIPPED TO HONG KONG.
OF THESE, ONLY 10.04 MILLION WERE ISSUED AND, AS WITH THE TWO-DOLLAR COINS, BECAUSE NEW DESIGN FIVE DOLLARS WERE AVAILABLE TO MEET 1993 LUNAR NEW YEAR DEMAND, THE UNISSUED BALANCE OF THE 1989 ORDER, 19.96 MILLION PIECES, WAS RETURNED TO THE MINT.
"THE FIVE-CENT COIN, WHICH WAS DEMONETISED ON JANUARY 1, 1989,
COMPLETES THE PICTURE.
/"ALTHOUGH FIVE .......
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1993
2
’’ALTHOUGH FIVE MILLION FIVE-CENT COINS WERE PRODUCED AND SHIPPED TO HONG KONG IN 1980, NONE OF THESE WAS EVER PUT INTO CIRCULATION AS DEMAND DROPPED AND THEY WERE SUBSEQUENTLY RTURNED TO THE MINT,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
’’PRIOR TO THIS, FIVE-CENT COINS WERE MINTED IN BOTH 1978 AND 1979, THE RESPECTIVE PRODUCTION QUANTITIES BEING 10 MILLION AND FOUR MILLION.
"OF THESE 14 MILLION COINS, 9.76 MILLION WERE ISSUED, BUT IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO TELL FROM THE STOCK RECORDS WHETHER IN FACT BOTH 1978 AND 1979 DATED COINS WERE ACTUALLY PUT INTO CIRCULATION.
"THE MINTING OF COINS BEARING THE QUEEN’S EFFIGY MAY HAVE COME TO AN END, BUT THERE IS STILL AN OPPORTUNITY TO PURCHASE THE 1988 SETS COMPRISING SEVEN COINS RANGING FROM THE FIVE-CENT TO THE FIVE-DOLLAR COIN", THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
LIMITED QUANTITIES OF BOTH THE PROOF AND BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED 1988 COIN COLLECTION ARE STILL AVAILABLE AT DESIGNATED BRANCHES OF THE HONGKONGBANK AND THE OVERSEAS TRUST BANK.
-----0--------
ACTION IN HANI) ON CAISSON SAFETY
*****
IN RESPONSE TO PRESS ENQUIRIES REGARDING ALLEGATIONS AGAINST THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S CONSULTATION ON HAND-DUG CAISSONS, A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION STARTED IN NOVEMBER 1992.
LETTERS INVITING VIEWS ON HAND-DUG CAISSONS WERE SENT TO THREE EMPLOYERS ASSOCIATIONS, EIGHT PROFESSIONAL BODIES, THREE EMPLOYEES’ TRADE UNIONS, AND TWO CONCERN GROUPS OF CAISSON WORKERS INCLUDING THE CONCERN GROUP ON PNEUMOCONIOSIS AND THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE RIGHTS OF INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS VICTIMS.
LABOUR DEPARTMENT OFFICIALS ALSO MET TWO DELEGATIONS LISTENING TO THEIR VIEWS ON HAND-DUG CAISSONS.
AS THE SUGGESTION TO BAN HAND-DUG CAISSONS INVOLVES A TERRITORY-WIDE IMPACT ON THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AND THE LIVELIHOOD OF CAISSON WORKERS, THE GOVERNMENT HAS TO WORK OUT A LONG-TERM STRATEGY ON PRACTICABLE STEPS TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE.
FOLLOWING LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S PUBLIC CONSULTATION, THE HOUSING AUTHORITY HAS ENDORSED THE RESTRICTION OF USE OF HAND-DUG CAISSONS AS FAR AS POSSIBLE.
THE WORKS BRANCH HAD ALSO EXPRESSED THEIR INTENTION TO REPLACE HAND-DUG CAISSONS BY MACHINERY EXCEPT IN CASES WHERE THE USE OF MANUAL WORKERS IS SAFER THAN USING MACHINERY.
IN ADDITION, A DRAFT CODE OF PRACTICE ON HAND-DUG CAISSON SAFETY, PREPARED BY A TRIPARTITE COMMITTER, IS NOW BEING FINALISED.
/AS REGARDS .......
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1993
3
AS REGARDS CRITICISMS THAT THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT IS SHEDDING ITS ENFORCEMENT AND TRAINING RESPONSIBILITIES, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT ONE OE THE MAIN OBJECTIVES Ob THE DEPARTMENT’S FACTORY INSPECTORATE DIVISION THIS YEAR WAS TO CONTINUE STRICT ENFORCEMENT ON HAND-DUG CAISSON SAFETY BY MOUNTING SPECIAL INSPECTION CAMPAIGNS IN ADDITION TO ROUTINE INSPECTIONS.
HE POINTED OUT THAT DURING A TWO-PHASE SPECIAL INSPECTION CAMPAIGN ON CONSTRUCTION SITES LAST YEAR, FACTORY INSPECTORS INSPECTED A TOTAL OF 422 CONSTRUCTION SITES INCLUDING 39 CAISSON SITES.
AS A RESULT, 475 SUMMONSES WERE ISSUED INCLUDING 30 AGAINST 19 CAISSON SITES.
MEANWHILE, THE DEPARTMENT’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE HAS BEEN AND WILL CONTINUE TO ORGANISE FREE TRAINING COURSES ON CAISSON SAFETY.
IN FACT, THREE ADDITIONAL TRAINING COURSES WERE ARRANGED LAST AUGUST TO MEET THE OVERWHELMING ENROLMENT.
-----0--------
MERGER IS GOOD FOR YAU TSIM AND MONG KOK: DO
*****
THE PROPOSED MERGER OF THE MONG KOK AND YAU TSIM DISTRICT BOARDS WOULD BE IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF BOTH DISTRICTS, YAU TSIM/MONG KOK DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BART IRELAND, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE MONG KOK DISTRICT SPRING RECEPTION, MR IRELAND SAID THE NEW, LARGER DISTRICT BOARD WOULD BECOME EVEN MORE EFFECTIVE AS IT WOULD COMBINE THE EXPERIENCE AND DEDICATION OF MEMBERS FROM BOTH DISTRICTS.
DESPITE THE MERGER, HE STRESSED THAT FUNDS WOULD NOT BE A PROBLEM AS AN ADDITIONAL 50 PER ('ENT OR $6 MILLION HAS BERN EARMARKED FOR THE COMING YEAR.
HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THERE WOULD BE NO CHANGE IN THE DISTRICTS’ 11 AREA COMMITTEES.
"I SHALL STILL APPOINT THE MEMBERS AND YOU WILL CONTINUE TO ELECT YOUR OWN CHAIRMAN. YOU WILL STILL HAVE A CRUCIAL ROLE TO PLAY IN DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION, IN TACKLING AND RESOLVING ISSUES WITHIN YOUR AREA WITH THE SAME DEDICATION AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT AS YOU HAVE ALWAYS SHOWN.”
MR IRELAND ALSO SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS MAKING GOOD PROGRESS ON DRAFT LEGISLATION TO IMPLEMENT THE CONSTITUTIONAL PACKAGE SET OUT BY THE GOVERNOR IN HIS POLICY SPEECH AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN OCTOBER.
/’’THE LEGISLATIVE ......
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1993
4
’’THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IS NOW CONSIDERING THE BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION BILL, WHICH SEEKS TO ESTABLISH A STATUTORY BODY RESPONSIBLE FOR MAKING RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNOR ON GEOGRAPHICAL CONSTITUENCY BOUNDARIES, ORGANISING AND OVERSEEING THE CONDUCT OF ELECTIONS TO THE THREE TIERS OF OUR REPRESENTATIVE INSTITUTIONS,” HE ADDED.
NOTING THAT THE NEXT DISTRICT BOARD ELECTIONS WOULD BE HELD IN SEPTEMEBR 1994, HE HOPED THAT THIS PARTICULAR LEGISLATION WILL BE ENACTED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
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GREEN FUND FOR EASTERN ♦ * * * *
A TRUST FUND TO PROMOTE COMMUNITY TREE-PLANTING ACTIVITY IN EASTERN DISTRICT WILL BE SET UP.
ANNOUNCING THIS AT A TREE-PLANTING CEREMONY TODAY (SATURDAY), EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR STEVE BARCLAY, SAID THE EASTERN DISTRICT COMMUNITY GREENING FUND LIMITED WILL COMPLEMENT THE PRESENT ENVIRONMENTAL WORK CARRIED OUT BY THE DISTRICT BOARD AND VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
"IT WILL ALSO ENCOURAGE DIRECT PARTICIPATION BY THE PUBLIC IN EFFORTS TO IMPROVE THEIR ENVIRONMENT,” HE SAID.
THE FUND COMPANY WILL RECEIVE DONATIONS FROM PRIVATE SPONSORS TO CARRY OUT PROJECTS RECOMMENDED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD’S WORKING GROUP ON GREENING ACTIVITIES AND WILL PERFORM ALL THE NECESSARY TENDERING, PREPARATION OF CONTRACTS, SUPERVISION AND PAYMENT OF CONTRACTOR.
DURING THE YEAR 1992/93, HE ADDED, THE DISTRICT BOARD HAS PLANTED OVER 400 ON-STREET TREES AND A SIMILAR NUMBER WILL RE PLANTED IN THE COMING YEAR.
HE CALLED ON PRIVATE COMPANIES AND THE PUBLIC INTERESTED IN SPONSORING GREENING PROJECTS TO CONTACT THE DISTRICT OFFICE.
"WE WOULD BE VERY HAPPY TO ASSIST AND TO ADVISE THEM ON THE BEST WAY TO TURN THEIR IDEAS INTO PRACTICE,” HE SAID.
ALSO SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY, THE WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN, MR FU YUEN-CHEUNG, SAID A NUMBER OF TREES HAD BEEN PLANTED ALONG LEI KING ROAD, HEALTHY STREET CENTRAL, PAK FUK ROAD AND SHING TAI ROAD OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS.
"THEY HAVE ADDED VIGOUR TO THE BUSY STREETS IN ADDITION TO REDUCING AIR POLLUTION AS WELL AS THE GREENHOUSE EFFECTS IN THE ATMOSPHERE,” HE SAID.
/MARKING THE .......
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1993
5
MARKING THE CEREMONY, TWO THREE-METRE-TALL SILK OAK TREES WERE PLANTED AT THE JUNCTION OF LEI KING ROAD AND TAI ON STREET, SAI WAN
A BUS PARADE WAS ALSO ORGANISED ALONG SIX DIFFERENT LOCATIONS WHERE THE STAFF ON BOARD HANDED OUT FREE PACKETS OF PLANT SEEDS AND INFORMATION BOOKLETS.
-----0------
LUCKY VEHICLE MARKS SOLD FOR CHARITY *****
FORTY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WERE SOLD IN AN AUCTION THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING FOR A TOTAL OF $1,172,000.
THE SUM WILL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY AFTER DEDUCTION OF EXPENSES.
THE AUCTION, HELD AT THE RECITAL HALL OF THE CITY HALL, SAW THE REGISTRATION MARK 3311 FETCH THE HIGHEST PRICE OF $320,000.
ANOTHER REGISTRATION MARK CK7 WAS SOLD AT THE SECOND HIGHEST PRICE OF $160,000 WHILE THE LOWEST PRICE WAS $1,000 EACH FOR FB4700 AND FB8144.
FOLLOWING ARE THE RESULTS OF THE AUCTION:
$ $ $ $
FB375 3,000 FB1018 2,000 FB6686 8,000 FB1398 20,000
BC7960 WITHDRAWN *CK7 160,000 *3311 320,000 AS4168 7,000
FB9789 3,000 FB6 3 7 4,000 FA8881 14,000 FB1007 36,000
♦FF9000 21,000 FA91 1 10,000 FBI 82 25,000 *FF54 30,000
FB3168 3,000 ♦FF878 82,000 *FG58 19,000 FB520 3,000
AA449 23,000 FB896 30,000 FB8183 7,000 AW557 10,000
FB690 5,000 FA1228 17,000 EZ9369 2,000 FB4700 1,000
♦ BX16 34,000 *ER5 122,000 ♦FF2000 37,000 ♦FF567 24,000
FB2880 5,000 FB8488 10,000 FB2218 18,000 FB8144 1,000
FA528 1,000 FA366 45,000 FA352 8,000 FB1274 WITHDRAWN
* SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK (NOT TRANSFERABLE)
SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO PAY BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.
THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS 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 .......
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1993 6 -
TODAY’S SALE, THE 188TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973, BROUGHT THE TOAL AMOUNT OF MONEY REALISED SO FAR TO $170,190,905.
THERE WAS NO BIDDER FOR BC7960 AND FB1274, THESE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WILL BE ASSIGNED TO THE ORIGINAL APPLICANTS.
-----0-------
RESIDENTS URGED TO SUPPORT DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION
*****
THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR PAUL WONG, TODAY (SATURDAY) CALLED ON KWUN TONG RESIDENTS TO SUPPORT THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME AND TO ACTIVELY PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.
OFFICIATING AT THE KWUN TONG ARTS FESTIVAL, HE ENCOURAGED THEM TO EXPRESS VIEWS THROUGH THEIR DISTRICT BOARD, DISTRICT OFFICE, AREA COMMITTEES AND LOCAL COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS.
"ONLY WITH BETTER COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND RESIDENTS CAN BETTER COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BE ACHIEVED," MR WONG SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THROUGH THE CLOSE CO-OPERATION OF THESE BODIES, THERE HAD BEEN GREAT IMPROVEMENTS IN DISTRICT MANAGEMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE, QUALITY OF LIFE AND PUBLIC CONSTRUCTION IN KWUN TONG.
------0-------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ♦ ♦ » * ♦ $ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,150 REVERSAL OF LAF NIL BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,150 NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -200
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,950 LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
VISITORS TO GET FREE PUBLICATIONS IN EXPO'93 ...............1
DONATION FOR HOSTELS FOR NEEDY ............................... 2
INDUSTRIALISTS URGED TO EXPRESS VIEWS ON REFORMS ............. 2
2,000 CHILDREN HAVE A JOYFUL FAMILY DAY ...................... 3
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 1993
1
VISITORS TO GET FREE PUBLICATIONS IN EXPO’93
******
VISITORS TO THE FORTHCOMING EDUCATION AND CAREERS EXPO’93 WILL BE ABLE TO OBTAIN FREE PUBLICATIONS PRINTED BY THE ORGANISERS TO FACILITATE THEIR TOUR OF THE EXPOSITION AND TO BROADEN THEIR KNOWLEDGE OF CHOOSING CAREERS.
MORE THAN 150,000 COPIES OF A GUIDE MAP CONTAINING EASY REFERENCE TO VARIOUS EXHIBITION BOOTHS AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION OF THE EXHIBITORS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO VISITORS DURING THE EXHIBITION.
IN ADDITION, TENS OF THOUSANDS OF COPIES OF A CAREERS PAMPHLET WILL BE GIVEN AWAY TO VISITORS, PROVIDING THEM WITH ADVICE ON CHOOSING CAREERS.
THE EXPOSITION, WHICH WILL RUN FROM FEBRUARY 18 TO FEBRUARY 21, IS A COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND CAREERS EXHIBITIONS BEING ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL AND THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
"THROUGH VARIOUS DISPLAYS, AUDIO-VISUAL AIDS AND MICROCOMPUTERS, AS WELL AS ON-THE-SPOT ENQUIRY SERVICE, VISITORS WILL BE ABLE TO SEEK LATEST INFORMATION ON LOCAL AND OVERSEAS EDUCATION AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES AS WELL AS CAREERS DEVELOPMENT IN VARIOUS TRADES AND IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR," SENIOR LABOUR OFFICER MRS CLARE SIU SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
THE EDUCATION EXHIBITION WILL FEATURE SOME 120 EXHIBITORS FROM LOCAL AND OVERSEAS UNIVERSITIES, POLYTECHNICS, COLLEGES, SCHOOLS AND TRAINING INSTITUTES, PROVIDING A FULL RANGE OF DISPLAYS ON EDUCATIONAL AND VOCATIONAL OPTIONS TO YOUNG PEOPLE.
THE 66 EXHIBITORS IN THE CAREERS EXHIBITION WILL HELP VISITORS TO IDENTIFY THE CAREER PATHS BEST SUITED TO THEIR INTERESTS AND ABILITIES.
"FOR MANY YOUNG PEOPLE, EXPO’93 WILL GIVE THEM THE FIRST OPPORTUNITY TO THINK SERIOUSLY ABOUT A CAREER," MRS SIU SAID.
"THROUGHOUT THE FOUR-DAY EXPOSITION, THERE WILL BE A TOTAL OF 76 EDUCATION AND CAREERS SEMINARS BY PROFESSIONALS FROM VARIOUS TRADES AND EDUCATION ORGANISATIONS.
"THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS INVITED ALL SECONDARY SCHOOLS TO VISIT THE EXPOSITION. GROUP VISITS FOR ABOUT 10,000 STUDENTS FROM MORE THAN 90 SCHOOLS HAVE BEEN ARRANGED," MRS SIU ADDED.
VIDEO SHOWS OFFERING LATEST INFORMATION ON A WIDE RANGE OF CAREERS SUCH AS BANKING, TELECOMMUNICATIONS, TOURISM, MASS COMMUNICATION AND THE CIVIL SERVICE WILL BE PRESENTED EVERY HOUR THROUGHOUT THE EVENT.
THE EXPOSITION, TO BE HELD ON LEVEL 7 OF THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE IN WAN CHAI, WILL BE OPEN FROM 10.30 AM TO 7 PM ON FEBRUARY 18 AND FROM 9.30 AM TO 7 PM FROM FEBRUARY 19 TO 21. ADMISSION IS FREE.
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/2 ......
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 1993
- 2 -
DONATION FOR HOSTELS FOR NEEDY
*****
THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB HAS DONATED $15.6 MILLION TO PROVIDE FOR FIVE URBAN HOSTELS FOR THE NEEDY, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
THESE HOSTELS WILL BE SET UP IN CHEUNG SHA WAN, LOK FU, MONG KOK, YAU MA TEI AND CHAI WAN.
’’THEY WILL PROVIDE THE MUCH NEEDED SHORT-TERM ACCOMMODATION IN THE URBAN AREA FOR BEDSPACE APARTMENT LODGERS AFFECTED BY RE-DEVELOPMENT, AS WELL AS FOR STREET-SLEEPERS, PARTICULARLY THE ELDERLY AND DISABLED,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"MANY STREET-SLEEPERS AND BEDSPACE APARTMENT LODGERS WISH TO LIVE IN THE OLDER URBAN AREAS BECAUSE THEY HAVE ESTABLISHED SOCIAL TIES THERE.
"MANY ALSO WISH TO LIVE NEAR THEIR PLACE OF WORK. IT IS NOT UNCOMMON THAT STREET-SLEEPERS AND BEDSPACE APARTMENT LODGERS REJECT OFFERS OF PUBLIC HOUSING IN THE NEW TERRITORIES AND CHOOSE TO STAY ON STREETS OR IN OVERCROWDED APARTMENTS," HE ADDED.
THESE HOSTELS ARE THEREFORE SET UP TO ACCOMMODATE SINGLE PERSONS IN VARIOUS URBAN DISTRICTS WHO ARE ELDERLY AND DISABLED STREET-SLEEPERS OR BEDSPACE APARTMENT LODGERS AFFECTED BY PRIVATE RE-DEVELOPMENT.
’’EACH HOSTEL WILL BE RUN BY A NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATION ON A SELF-FINANCING BASIS AND WILL ACCOMMODATE ABOUT 30 TO 40 PEOPLE," HE NOTED.
THE FIRST HOSTEL IN CHEUNG SHA WAN IS NOW READY FOR OCCUPATION AND THE SECOND ONE IN CHAI WAN IS TO OPEN LATER THIS YEAR.
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INDUSTRIALISTS URGED TO EXPRESS VIEWS ON REFORMS
*****
THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR STEVE BARCLAY, TODAY (SUNDAY) CALLED ON INDUSTRIALISTS TO PUT FORWARD THEIR VIEWS ON THE ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR 1994/95.
SPEAKING AT THE SPRING RECEPTION DINNER OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT INDUSTRIALISTS’ ASSOCIATION, HE SAID GOOD PROGRESS WAS BEING MADE ON DRAFTING RELEVANT LEGISLATION.
THE BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION BILL, HE ADDED, HAD BEEN TABLED TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS AND THE OTHER RELATED BILLS WOULD BE GAZETTED LATER THIS MONTH.
/HE SAID .......
4
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 1993
3 -
HE SAID IT WAS ESSENTIAL FOR ALL SECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY TO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS AFTER THE PUBLICATION OF THE BILLS.
’’ONLY BY DOING SO CAN WE ENSURE THAT THE ARRANGEMENTS MADE ARE ACCEPTABLE TO THE COMMUNITY,” HE SAID.
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2,000 CHILDREN HAVE A JOYFUL FAMILY DAY ♦ * * * *
ABOUT 2,000 CHILDREN OF THE GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT STAFF SPENT AN AFTERNOON OF JOY AND FUN WITH THEIR PARENTS AT THE DEPARTMENT’S ANNUAL FAMILY DAY TODAY (SUNDAY).
THE EVENT WAS HELD AT THE DEPARTMENT’S HEADQUARTERS IN OIL STREET, NORTH POINT.
THIS YEAR’S PARTY STARTED WITH THE DOTTING OF A ’’LION’S EYE" BY THE DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES, MR BILLY LAM CHUNG-LUN.
THIS WAS FOLLOWED BY A LION DANCE PERFORMED BY MEMBERS OF THE LIFE GUARDS OF THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES.
OTHER PROGRAMMES INCLUDED SIDE-SHOWS, STALL GAMES, ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT’S DISPLAY, KARAOKE COMPETITION, LABYRINTH, A POP SONG PERFORMANCE AND A BICYCLE DEMONSTRATION.
THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES BAND AND THE TAI TAM GIRL PIPERS AND MARCHING TEAM ALSO PLAYED MUSIC FOR THE PARTICIPANTS.
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR HAPPY TO TALK TO CHINA ................................. 1
BANK MORTGAGE CAP WORKS WELL .............................. , . . 1
SECOND REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENT WHITE PAPER UNDERWAY ............... 2
RE-EXPORT TRADE ASSUMES GREATER ROLE ............................ 3
STUDY ON WHOLESALE ACTIVITIES COMMISSIONED ...................... 7
NEW PHONE SYSTEM OFFERS EDUCATION INFORMATION ................... 7
MEXICO IMPOSES PROVISIONAL ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ON CANDLES FROM CHINA .................................................... 8
MEASURES TO HELP MARICULTURISTS CONSIDERED ...................... 9
CURRICULUM GUIDES READY IN SEPTEMBER ........................... 10
COLD SPELLS DOMINATE JANUARY ................................... 10
CONTRACTORS AND WORKERS PRAISED FOR SAFETY RECORD .............. 14
LEGCO TO DEBATE FAIR TRADE POLICY .............................. 14
SALT WATER CUT IN KOWLOON EAST ................................. 15
/AUXILIARY MEDICAL ...
AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES RESCUERS TRY OUT SKILLS
15
TSUEN WAN MUSIC CENTRE MOVES TO NEW OFFICE ..................... 16
FRESH WATER CUT IN HO MAN TIN .................................. 16
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ........................................... 16
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY .......................................... 16
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS .............. 17
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
17
MONDAS, I EBRI'ARY 15, 1993
1
GOVERNOR HAPPY TO TALK TO ( II I NA
*****
THE GOVERNOR, THE RI’ HON CHRISTOPHER P\TTEN, SAID HE WAS VERY HAPP’k TO TALK TO CHINA AT \N> STAGE \BOI I THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994 AND 1995 ELECTIONS.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS BEFORE ATTENDING A CONCERT THIS (MONDAY) EVENING, MR PATTEN REITERATED THAT HE HAD MADE THAT ABSOLUTELY CLEAR AND HAD SAID THAT WHEN HE WAS IN PEKING LAST OCTOBER.
"IT WAS MY POSITION, IT REMAINS MY POSITION, AND IT’S ALSO THE POSITION OF THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT.
"SO THAT IF AT ANY STAGE, CHINA WISHES TO TALK TO US ABOUT THE FUTURE POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG, WE’LL BE DELIGHTED THAT THOSE DISCUSSIONS SHOULD GO FORWARD WITHOUT, ON OUR PART, ANY PRECONDITIONS FOR TALKS,” HE SAID.
--------0------------
BANK MORTGAGE CAP WORKS WELL *****
REFERRING TO A NEWSPAPER REPORT ON MORTGAGE LENDING, THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR MONETARY AFFAIRS, MR TAM WING-PONG, TODAY (MONDAY) CLARIFIED THAT AT PRESENT THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT SEE THE NEED TO TAKE FORMAL ACTION ON MORTGAGE LENDING ALTHOUGH THE SITUATION WAS KEPT UNDER CONSTANT REVIEW.
"WE BELIEVE THAT THE PRESENT 70 PER CENT MORTGAGE CAP VOLUNTARILY ADOPTED BY THE BANKING SECTOR IS WORKING WELL AND STILL COMMANDS THE SUPPORT OF THE BANKING SECTOR IN GENERAL," MR TAM SAID.
THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING, UNDER SECTION 7 OF THE BANKING ORDINANCE, MAY ISSUE GUIDELINES TO AUTHORISED INSTJ TUT IONS REGARDING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THEIR BUSINESS PRACTICES TO PROMOTE THE GENERAL STABILITY AND EFFECTIVE WORKING OF THE BANKING SYSTEM.
"BUT 1 UNDERSTAND THAT AT PRESENT THE COMMISSIONER HAS NO INTENTION OF DOING SO," MR TAM SAID.
"WE DO NOT NORMALLY INTERVENE IN THE WAY BANKS CONDUCT THEIR BUSINESS UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. THERE DOFS NOT SEEM TO BE SUCH A NEED AT THE MOMENT,” HE SAID.
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/2 ........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
2
SECOND REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENT WHITE PAPER UNDERWAY ******
THE SECOND REVIEW OF THE 1989 WHITE PAPER ON ENVIRONMENT WILL BE THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT ADDRESSED TO EVERY MEMBER OF THE COMMUNITY, THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY COOPER, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE PACIFIC ASIA TOURIST ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE, MR COOPER SAID THE SECOND REVIEW, WHICH WAS BEING DRAFTED FOR
RELEASE LATER THIS YEAR, WAS MORE THAN JUST AN ACTION PLAN TO DEAL WITH WORST ABUSES OF THE ENVIRONMENT. •
IT AIMED TO REVIEW THE PROGRESS OF GOVERNMENT’S ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PROGRAMMES SO FAR; SET DOWN THE BASIS FOR FUTURE ACTION TO PROTECT HONG KONG’S ENVIRONMENT; AND TO EXPLAIN SEVERAL INITIATIVES FOR IMPROVING THE GOVERNMENT’S OWN PERFORMANCE IN ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION.
’’THE REVIEW IS INTENDED TO BE AN EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIVE TOOL. IT WILL OUTLINE FOR THE FIRST TIME THE VERY NATURE OF HONG KONG’S ENVIRONMENT THAT WE ARE SEEKING TO PROTECT AND SUSTAIN.”
"IT WILL TAKE AS ITS STARTING POINT THE BELIEF THAT ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION IS NOT THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF ANY PARTICULAR SECTOR OF OUR COMMUNITY, BUT AN OBLIGATION THAT RESTS WITH US ALL,” HE SAID.
MR COOPER SAID THERE WERE ALREADY SUBSTANTIAL PROGRAMMES TO MITIGATE THE WORST ABUSES OF THE ENVIRONMENT.
AS PART OF THE SEWAGE STRATEGY, A HIGH PRIORITY PROGRAMME WAS UNDER ACTIVE PLANNING TO CURTAIL WATER POLLUTION IN THE CENTRAL HARBOUR.
A SOPHISTICATED AND STATUTORY WASTE DISPOSAL PLAN FEATURING REMOTE LANDFILLS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WAS TN PLACE TO ENSURE THE PROPER DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE. IN ADDITION, THE GOVERNMENT IS EXAMINING THE FEASIBILITY OF CHARGING FOR THE DISPOSAL OF CONSTRUCTION WASTE.
MR COOPER SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS NOW DISCUSSING WITH THE LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY A DETAILED CONTROL PROGRAMME ON LIVESTOCK WASTE WHILE A CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT FACILITY ON TSING YI WOULD BE COMMISSIONED SHORTLY TOGETHER WITH ENFORCEMENT OF NEW LEGISLATION FOR TOXIC WASTE DISPOSAL.
AT THE CONFERENCE, MR COOPER ALSO CALLED ON THE TOURIST INDUSTRY TO PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION BY CONSIDERING THE POSSIBILITY OF GREEN TOURISM.
HIS PLEA RECEIVED POSITIVE RESPONSE FROM A NUMBER OF DELEGATES INCLUDING THOSE FROM THE LOCAL TOURISM INDUSTRY.
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
3
RE-EXPORT TRADE ASSUMES GREATER ROLE
******
RE-EXPORTS ACCOUNTED FOR 74.7% OF THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS AND 36.7% OF THE TOTAL VALUE OF EXTERNAL TRADE OF HONG KONG LAST YEAR. IN 1991, THE CORRESPONDING SHARES WERE 69.8% AND 34.6% RESPECTIVELY.
THESE FIGURES, AFFIRMING THE GROWING IMPORTANCE OF RE-EXPORT TRADE, ARE AMONG THE DETAILED RE-EXPORT STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
CHINA REMAINED THE LARGEST PARTNER FOR HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORT TRADE. OF THE TOTAL $691 BILLION OF RE-EXPORTS GOING THROUGH HONG KONG IN 1992, 86.2% OR $596 BILLION INVOLVED CHINA IN EITHER DIRECTION.
AS A COUNTRY OF ORIGIN, CHINA ACCOUNTED FOR 58.4% OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORT VALUE IN 1992. AS A COUNTRY OF DESTINATION, CHINA’S SHARE WAS 30.7%.
IT IS NOTED THAT MUCH OF THE RE-EXPORT TRADE INVOLVING CHINA IS RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING, AS RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURED GOODS ARE EXPORTED TO CHINA FOR PROCESSING AND THE FINAL PRODUCTS SUBSEQUENTLY RETURNED TO HONG KONG.
OTHER MAJOR COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN FOR HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS IN 1992 INCLUDED JAPAN (ACCOUNTING FOR A SHARE OF 12.3%), TAIWAN (7.9%), THE UNITED STATES (4.6%) AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (2.8%).
THE MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION IN 1992, BESIDES CHINA, INCLUDED THE UNITED STATES (ACCOUNTING FOR A SHARE OF 21.5%), JAPAN (5.4%), GERMANY (4.8%) AND TAIWAN (3.8%).
TABLE 1 SHOWS THE CHANGES TN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS FROM THE 10 MAJOR COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN IN 1992 COMPARED WITH 1991.
COMPARING 1992 WITH 1991, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS FROM MOST MAJOR COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN: JAPAN (+48.5%), GERMANY (+34.2%), SINGAPORE (+33.3%), TAIWAN (+30.6%), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+29.1%), CHINA (+27.9%), THE UNITED KINGDOM (+27.4%), FRANCE (+21.5%) AND THE UNITED STATES (+20.8%).
OF THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS ORIGINATING FROM CHINA IN 1992, 34.7% WENT TO THE UNITED STATES, 7.6% TO GERMANY AND 7.1% TO JAPAN.
FOR GOODS OF JAPAN ORIGIN, 65.4% OF THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS THROUGH HONG KONG TN 1992 WENT TO CHINA.
IN 1992, THE SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM REPLACED TAIWAN AS THE SECOND MAJOR COUNTRY OF DESTINATION FOR RE-EXPORTS OF JAPAN ORIGIN THROUGH HONG KONG.
AT $3,630 MILLION, THE VALUE OF JAPAN ORIGIN RE-EXPORTS THROUGH HONG KONG TO VIETNAM IN 1992 WAS ALMOST FIVE TIMES THAT IN 1991.
/FOR RE-EXPORTS .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
4
FOR RE-EXPORTS ORIGINATING FROM TAIWAN, AN OVERWHELMING PROPORTION (90.1% OF THE VALUE IN 1992) WENT TO CHINA.
AS REGARDS RE-EXPORTS ORIGINATING FROM THE UNITED STATES, 56.6% OF THE VALUE IN 1992 WERE SHIPPED TO CHINA AND 12.6% TO TAIWAN.
TABLE 2 SHOWS THE CHANGES TN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION.
ANALYSED BY COMMODITY, SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA WERE RECORDED FOR TEXTILES (BY $7,172 MILLION OR 20.1%); ROAD VEHICLES (BY $6,769 MILLION OR 120.1%); AND MACHINERY SPECIALISED FOR PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES (BY $6,511 MILLION OR 94.4%).
HOWEVER, DECREASES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA WERE RECORDED FOR ORGANIC CHEMICALS (BY $249 MILLION OR 8.0%); AND CRUDE ANIMAL AND VEGETABLE MATERIALS (BY $77 MILLION OR 9.2%).
AS REGARDS RE-EXPORTS TO THE UNITED STATES, SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN VALUE WERE RECORDED FOR MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $12,142 MILLION OR 40.1%); FOOTWEAR (BY $5,535 MILLION OR 35.8%); AND CLOTHING (BY $4,820 MILLION OR 28.8%).
HOWEVER, DECREASES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO THE UNITED STATES WERE RECORDED FOR FISH, CRUSTACEANS, MOLLUSCS AND AQUATIC INVERTEBRATES AND PREPARATIONS THEREOF (BY $73 MILLION OR 10.6%); AND MISCELLANEOUS EDIBLE PRODUCTS AND PREPARATIONS (BY $35 MILLION OR 24.1%).
DETAILED STATISTICS OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORT TRADE ARE PUBLISHED IN THE DECEMBER 1992 ISSUE OF THE ’’HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE” REPORT WHICH WILL BE ON SALE AT $52 A COPY AROUND FEBRUARY 22.
THE REPORT IS AVAILABLE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL AND THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON THE 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT SUBSCRIPTION TO THE REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG (TEL 842 8802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE STATISTICS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL 582 4915).
/TABLE 1 .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
5
TABLE 1 : RE-EXPORTS FROM THE TEN MAJOR COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN
MAJOR COUNTRY OF ORIGIN JAN-DEC 1992 (HKD Mn ) JAN-DEC 1991 (HKD Mn ) INCREASE/ DECREASE (HKDjMn ) JAN-DEC 92 OVER JAN-DEC 91 (% CHANGE)
CHINA 403,782 315,689 + 88,093 + 27.9
JAPAN 84,966 57,215 + 27,751 + 48.5
TAIWAN 54,442 41,693 * 12,749 + 30.6
UNITED STATES 32,113 26,591 ♦ 5,523 + 20.8
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 19,391 15,019 + 4,372 + 29.1
GERMANY 9,134 6,805 + 2,329 + 34.2
SINGAPORE 8,269 6,202 + 2,067 + 33.3
UNITED KINGDOM 7,404 5,813 + 1,590 + 27.4
FRANCE 6,448 5,307 + 1,141 + 21.5
SWITZERLAND 5,478 5,523 45 - 0.8
/TABLE 2 .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
6
TABLE 2 : RE-EXPORTS TO THE TEN MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION
MAJOR COUNTRY OF DESTINATION JAN-DEC 1992 (HKD Mn ) JAN-DEC 1991 (HKD Mn ) INCREASE/ DECREASE (HKD Mn ) JAN-DEC 92 OVER JAN-DEC 91 (% CHANGE)
CHINA 212,105 153,318 + 58,787 + 38.3
UNITED STATES 148,500 110,802 ♦ 37,698 ♦ 34.0
JAPAN 37,465 29,574 ♦ 7,891 + 26.7
GERMANY 33,103 32,073 + 1,030 + 3.2
TAIWAN 26,156 24,765 ♦ 1,391 + 5.6
UNITED KINGDOM 20,591 14,663 <• 5,928 ♦ 40.4
SINGAPORE 13,866 12,094 + 1,772 + 14.7
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 13,588 14,631 - 1,043 - 7.1
CANADA 11,101 8,498 + 2,604 + 30.6
FRANCE 11,039 9,038 + 2,001 + 22.1
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
7
STUDY ON WHOLESALE ACTIVITIES COMMISSIONED * * * ♦ t
THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) SIGNED A $1,027,000 AGREEMENT WITH A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO CARRY OUT A PLANNING STUDY ON WHOLESALE ACTIVITIES TN HONG KONG.
"THE STUDY AIMS AT EXAMINING THE CHARACTERISTICS, LOCATIONAL AND OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF WHOLESALE ACTIVITIES AS WELL AS ASSESSING THE IMPACTS GENERATED BY WHOLESALE ESTABLISHMENTS TO NEIGHBOURING BUILDINGS," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.
IT WILL BE CARRIED OUT FROM FEBRUARY TO DECEMBER THIS YEAR AND COMPRISES A SURVEY AND AN ANALYSIS.
A SAMPLE OF 2,000 WHOLESALE ESTABLISHMENTS IN INDUSTRIAL, RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL/OFFI Cl BUILDINGS W I LI BE TAKEN FROM A COMPREHENSIVE REGISTER KEPT B\ THE ( INSUS WD STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
"STUDY FINDINGS MAY BE USED TO RECOMMEND REVISIONS TO THE EXISTING STATUTORY ZONINGS AND THE SCHEDULE OF NOTES AND USES ATTACHED TO OUTLINE ZONING PLANS.
"THEY CAN ALSO BE USED TO FORMULATE PLANNING GUIDELINES ON WHOLESALE ACTIVITIES," THE SPOKEMAN ADDED.
THE DIRECTOR OF PLANNING, DR PETER PUN, SIGNED THE AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT WITH A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YUE CHENG AND ASSOCIATES LIMITED.
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NEW PHONE SYSTEM OFFERS EDUCATION INFORMATION ♦ t ♦ t ♦
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLH CAN NOW OBTAIN INFORMATION ON EDUCATIONAL MATTERS THROUGH AN \UTOMA IK TELEPHONE FNQI I R\ SYSTEM BY DIALING 891 0088.
THE SYSTEM ALSO INCLUDES \ FACSIMILE SERVICE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE THE EQUIPMENT EITHER AT HOME OR IN THE OFFICE, THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR DOMINIC S W WONG, SAID TODAS (MONDAY).
HE MADE THESE REMARKS WH I LI* SWITCHING ON ’Till- AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE ENQUIRY SYSTEM WHICH IS Noh ON TRIAL FOR FOUR MONTHS TO GAUGE PUBLIC DEMAND BEFORE THE FULI SYSTEM IS INSTALLED.
"THE 24-HOUR SERVICE IS BILINGUAL. CALLERS CAN OBTAIN THE TYPE OF INFORMATION THEY REQUIRE BY FOLLOWING THE VOICE INSTRUCTIONS IN THE SAME WAY AS THEY USE 'Till*' NOW FAMILIAR ELECTRONIC TELLER MACHINES," MR WONG EXPLAINED.
THE SYSTEM CAN ALSO AUTOMATICALLY TRANSFER ('ALLS TO VARIOUS KEY SERVICES SUCH AS DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICES, THE TEACHER REGISTRATION SECTION AND THE PRIMAIM ONE ADMISSION UNIT.
/INFORMATION AND .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
8
INFORMATION AND FAX MESSAGES AVAILABLE DURING THE TRIAL PERIOD COMPRISES SCHOOL ADMISSION, INCLUDING A LIST OF ENGLISH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION SCHOOLS AND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS; GENERAL INFORMATION ON THE SCHOOL ADMISSION SYSTEMS; PRIMARY ONE ADMISSION, STI DENT GUIDANCE SERVICES (CANTONESE ONLY); SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES; NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT SCHEME; TEACHER REGISTRATION AND SUPPLY TEACHERS; AND APPLICATIONS FOR VACANCIES IN THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
"THE SYSTEM WILL ENABLE US TO PROVIDE A MORE EFFICIENT ENQUIRY SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC WHO CAN GAIN ACCESS MORE EASILY AND AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY TO OUR ENQUIRY SYSTEM.
"THE SYSTEM WILL ALSO BE USED TO MAKE IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS SUCH AS THE SUSPENSION OF SCHOOLS DURING TYPHOONS OR RAINSTORMS," HE SAID.
------0-------
MEXICO IMPOSES PROVISIONAL ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ON CANDLES FROM (’HINA * * * * *
THE MEXICAN AUTHORITIES HAVE ANNOUNCED THAT A PROVISIONAL ANTIDUMPING DUTY OF 103 PER CENT IS IMPOSED ON CANDLES ORIGINATING FROM CHINA WITH EFFECT FROM DECEMBER 25, 1992.
THE TRADE DEPARTMENT INFORMED TRADERS LAST SEPTEMBER, THROUGH A COMMERCIAL INFORMATION CIRCULAR, THAT THE MEXICAN MINISTRY OF TRADE AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT HAD INITIATED AN ANTI-DUMPING INVESTIGATION INTO IMPORTS OF CANDLES FROM HONG KONG BUT ORIGINATING FROM CHINA.
THE PRODUCTS UNDER INVESTIGATION WERE ('LASS IFI ABLE UNDER TARIFF CLASSIFICATION NO. 3406.00.01 OF THE LAW ON THE GENERAL DUTY ON IMPORTS.
ACCORDING TO HONG KONG TRADE STATISTICS, HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS TO MEXICO OF CANDLES, TAPERS AND LIKE-PRODUCTS (UNDER HARMONISED SYSTEM CODE 3406.0000) ORIGINATING FROM CHINA AMOUNTED TO HKS2.7 MILLION IN 1991 AND HKS3.6 MILLION IN JANUARY-NOVEMBER 1992.
MEANWHILE, THE TRADE DEPARTMENT REMINDS EXPORTERS AND MANUFACTURERS APPLYING FOR CERTIFICATE OF HONG KONG ORIGIN OR CERTIFICATE OF PROCESSING AND CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN FORM A THAT THE RESPECTIVE APPLICATION FORMS TIC 185 (REV) AND TIC 185B (REV) HAVE BEEN UPDATED AND THE REVISED FORMS ARE INTRODUCED TODAY (MONDAY).
"APPLICANTS MAY HOWEVER CONTINUE TO USE THE EXISTING FORMS UNTIL MAY 14, 1993.
"WITH EFFECT FROM MAY 15, 1993, ONLY THE REVISED APPLICATION FORMS WILL BE ACCEPTED," A TRADE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED.
THE REVISED FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT TRADE DEPARTMENT’S COLLECTION OFFICE AT ROOM 813, 700 NATHAN ROAD AND THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE AT GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CENTRAL.
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/9 .........
NONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
9
• MEASURES TO HELP MARICULTURI STS CONSIDERED *****
MEMBERS OF THE AQUACULTURE SUB-COMMITTEE OF COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES TODAY (MONDAY) ITS MEETING THE RECENT FISH KILLS AT THE CHEUNG SHA WAN ZONE. I
THEY SUPPORTED A NUMBER OF MEASURES TO BE TAKEN MAR ICULTURI STS.
THE ADVISORY DISCUSSED AT FISH CULTURE
TO HELP THE
THE MEETING NOTED THAT BASED ON INVESTIGATION CONDUCTED BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT (AFD), THE RECENT SERIOUS FISH MORTALITY WAS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROLONGED COLD WEATHER DURING THE LUNAR NEW YEAR PERIOD WHEN LARGE NUMBER OF FISH KILLS OCCURRED THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY IN FISH CULTURE ZONES WITH SHALLOW WATER AND IN BAYS FACING THE NORTHEAST.
MARICULTURISTS WERE CONCERNED THAT DUMPING BARGES PASSING IN THE NEARBY WATERS OF THE CHEUNG SHA WAN FISH CULTURE ZONE WOULD HAVE AN ADVERSE EFFECT ON THE WATER QUALITY OF THE ZONE.
AFD .OFFICERS INFORMED. THE MEETING THAT RESULTS OF A THREE-WEEK SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE DEPARTMENT LAST DECEMBER INDICATED THAT THERE WAS NO DETERIORATION OF WATER QUALITY AT CHEUNG SHA WAN.
ALSO, IN RESPONSE TO AFD’S REQUEST, THE PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY IN CHARGE OF THE NEW AIRPORT SITE PREPARATION WORKS HAD AGREED AND WAS LIAISING WITH THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TO AMEND THE LICENSING CONDITIONS FOR DREDGING AND DUMPING TO INCLUDE A WATER QUALITY MONITORING STATION JUST OUTSIDE CHEUNG SHA WAN FISH CULTURE ZONE.
THE MEETING ALSO SUPPORTED AFD TO CONTINUE TO WORK CLOSELY WITH THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE TO REQUEST THE WORKS DEPARTMENTS CONCERNED TO PRESCRIBE THE ROUTE OF DUMPING BARGES TO AVOID THE WATERS IN FRONT OF THE CHEUNG SHA WAN FISH CULTURE ZONE.
AS REGARDS MARICULTURISTS’ REQUEST TO RELOCATE SOME OF THEM TEMPORARILY TO TAI LEI ISLAND, THE MEETING CONSIDERED THAT THE SITE WAS NOT SUITABLE AS IT WAS CLOSER TO OTHER DREDGING AREAS.
IT WAS ALSO NOTED THAT THERE WERE SOME OTHER PROJECTS, SUCH AS SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT, BEING PLANNED NEAR TAI LEI ISLAND.
HOWEVER, MEMBERS SUGGESTED THE GOVERNMENT TO EXPLORE THE FEASIBILITY OF FURTHER EXTENDING THE (HEUNG SHA WAN FISH CULTURE ZONE TO SPACE OUT THE FISH RAFTS AND ENABLE BETTER WATER CIRCULATION.
ON THE WATER QUALITY OF OTHER FISH CULTURE ZONES, MEMBERS NOTED THAT THE AFD AND CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT HAD KEPT ON MONITORING THE SIX DESIGNATED WATER MONITORING STATIONS AROUND THE BORROW AREA AT NORTH TATHONG CHANNEL AND THE RESULTS WERE FOUND TO BE SATISFACTORY.
AT TODAY’S MEETING, MEMBERS ALSO DISCUSSED THE SECOND CONSULTATION DOCUMENT OF THE SOUTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY REVIEW. VIEWS WOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT FOR CONSIDERATION.
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/10 ........
)
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
10
CURRICULUM GUIDES READY IN SEPTEMBER
*****
THE FINAL VERSION OF THE CURRICULUM GUIDES FOR THE FOUR LEVELS OF EDUCATION WILL BE READY FOR ISSUE TO SCHOOLS THIS SEPTEMBER.
SPEAKING AT A MEET-THE-MEDTA SESSION, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, MR ANDREW SO KWOK-WING, SAID CONSULTATION ON THE CURRICULUM GUIDES FOR KINDERGARTEN, PRIMARY, SECONDARY 1 TO 5 AND SIXTH FORM EDUCATION HAD RECEIVED FAVOURABLE COMMENTS FROM SCHOOLS AND OTHER EDUCATIONAL BODIES.
’’THESE COMMENTS WILL BE PASSED ON TO THE COUNCIL’S CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEES FOR THEIR CONSIDERATION. IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT THE FINAL VERSION OF THE GUIDES WILL BE READY FOR DISTRIBUTION TO SCHOOLS TN SEPTEMBER,” HE SAID.
’’MOST SCHOOL HEADS AND TEACHERS WHO RESPONDED HAD FOUND THE GUIDES WELL THOUGHT OUT, USEFUL AND INFORMATIVE," HE SAID.
MR SO SAID THERE WERE ALSO SOME SPECIFIC COMMENTS AIMED AT IMPROVING CERTAIN ASPECTS OF THE GUIDES.
HE ALSO TOOK THE OPPORTUNITY TO WELCOME THE COUNCIL’S NEW VICE-CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE, DR PANG KING-CHEE.
DR PANG SAID ANOTHER SET OF CURRICULUM GUIDES FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION WAS BEING PREPARED AND WOULD SOON BE AVAILABLE FOR CONSULTATION.
THE FIRST OF THE SERIES WOULD RE THE CURRICULUM GUIDE FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED CHILDREN.
"OTHER CURRICULUM GUIDES IN THE PIPELINE FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS INCLUDE THAT TO THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED, THE PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED, THE HEARING IMPAIRED, MALADJUSTED AND THE SOCIALLY DEPRIVED,” DR PANG SAID.
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COLD SPELLS DOMINATE JANUARY
*****
JANUARY SAW ONE OF THE MOST PERSISTENT COLD SPELLS, ACCORDING TO THE MONTHLY WEATHER REPORT RELEASED TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY.
DAILY MINIMUM TEMPERATURES WERE BELOW 12 DEGREES FOR 16 CONSECUTIVE DAYS (JANUARY 15-30), AND DAILY MEAN TEMPERATURES WERE BELOW 12 DEGREES FOR 11 CONSECUTIVE DAYS (JANUARY 15-25), THE LONGEST SINCE 1887.
THE COLD WEATHER WAS ACCOMPANIED BY 33.5 MILLIMETRES OF RAINFALL, 43 PER CENT ABOVE THE NORMAL OF 23.4 MILLIMETRES FOR THE MONTH.
I
/THE FIRST .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
11
THE FIRST TWO WEEKS OF THE MONTH WERE RELATIVELY WARM. THE WEATHER WAS MOSTLY FINE EVEN THOUGH THERE WERE INTERLUDES OF CLOUDS, LIGHT RAIN AND SLIGHTLY LOWER TEMPERATURES DUE TO WEAK REPLENISHMENTS OF THE WINTER MONSOON.
THE FIRST OF THESE REPLENISHMENTS WAS ON THE NIGHT OF JANUARY 4, WITH THE FRESHENING WINDS CLEARING AWAY THE MIST PATCHES WHICH FORMED OFFSHORE IN THE MORNING AND INSIDE THE HARBOUR IN THE EVENING ON THAT DAY.
WINDS AGAIN FRESHENED IN THE EARLY HOURS OF JANUARY 8. THEY WERE SHORT-LIVED AND SOON TURNED SOUTHEASTERLY, BRINGING IN WARM AND MOIST MARITIME AIR.
MIST PATCHES HOVERED OVER THE COASTAL WATERS ON THE EVENING OF JANUARY 8 AND THE MORNING OF JANUARY 9.
RISING TEMPERATURES LED TO THE MONTH’S HIGHEST READING OF 23.7 DEGREES ON JANUARY 10.
THE REPLENISHMENT ON THE MORNING OF JANUARY 11 BROUGHT EASTERLY WINDS WHICH WERE FRESH AND REMAINED SO FOR THE NEXT COUPLE OF DAYS.
AS A RESULT, THE WEATHER WAS NOTICEABLY CLOUDIER AND THERE WAS ALSO DRIZZLE.
WINDS MODERATED AND VEERED TO THE SOUTHEAST ON THE EVENING OF JANUARY 13.
MOISTER AIR FROM THE SEA ONCE AGAIN LED TO THE FORMATION OF MIST INSIDE THE HARBOUR THE NEXT DAY.
MEANWHILE, A COLD FRONT ASSOCIATED WITH AN INTENSE SURGE OF THE WINTER MONSOON WAS ADVANCING SOUTHWARDS ACROSS GUANGDONG.
IT REACHED HONG KONG ON THE AFTERNOON OF JANUARY 14. TEMPERATURES STARTED TO FALL IN THE EVENING AS THE NORTHERLY WINDS FRESHENED.
THIS MARKED THE BEGINNING OF A PROLONGED COLD SPELL WHICH LASTED TILL THE END OF THE MONTH.
LIGHT RAIN WAS FREQUENT ON JANUARY 15. BY THE MORNING OF
JANUARY 16, TEMPERATURES AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY HAD PLUNGED BY
NEARLY 16 DEGREES FROM THE MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE TWO DAYS EARLIER TO
5.4 DEGREES, THE LOWEST FOR THE MONTH AND THE COLDEST SO FAR THIS
WINTER.
FREEZING CONDITIONS WERE EXPERIENCED ON HIGH GROUND. ICE AND GLAZE WERE REPORTED AT TAI MO SHAN WHERE TEMPERATURES WERE AS LOW AS -2.0 DEGREES.
/EVEN THOUGH .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
12
EVEN THOUGH THE SUN BROKE THROUGH THAT DAY, DAYTIME TEMPERATURES WERE NO MORE THAN 12 DEGREES AS COLD AIR OF POLAR ORIGIN CONTINUED TO POUR FORTH FROM THE NORTH.
JANUARY 17 WAS AGAIN CLOUDY. LIGHT RAIN BEGAN FALLING THAT EVENING AND ABATED ON JANUARY 19.
A NORTHERLY REPLENISHMENT ON JANUARY 23 BROKE THE DRY SPELL OF THE PREVIOUS FOUR DAYS AND USHERED IN THE CHINESE NEW YEAR WITH RAIN.
RAINFALL OF 13.3 MILLIMETRES FELL ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE CHINESE NEW YEAR, A RECORD SECOND ONLY TO THE RECORD OF 15.8 MILLIMETRES SET WAY BACK IN 1911.
THE CLOUDS BEGAN TO THIN OUT ON JANUARY 24 AS THE NORTHERLIES FINALLY BROUGHT IN DRY CONTINENTAL AIR IN DEPTH. THE WEATHER TURNED FINE AND PERSISTED TILL THE END OF THE MONTH.
THE ABUNDANT SUNSHINE BROUGHT MILDER CONDITIONS DURING THE DAY, BUT THE CLEAR SKIES ACCENTUATED THE NIGHT-TIME COOLING ESPECIALLY OVER THE INLAND REGION.
TA KWU LING RECORDED SUB-ZERO TEMPERATURES ON THE NIGHT OF JANUARY 28, AND GROUND FROST WAS REPORTED IN THE NORTHERN NEW TERRITORIES ON THE MORNINGS OF JANUARY 29 AND 30.
FRESH TO STRONG NORTHERLY WINDS ON JANUARY 27 CAUSED SCAFFOLDINGS IN NGAU TAU KOK TO COLLAPSE.
MEAN RELATIVE HUMIDITY VALUES REMAINED BELOW 40 PER CENT ON JANUARY 27 AND 28. BETWEEN JANUARY 27 AND 31, NEARLY 100 CASES OF HILL FIRE WERE REPORTED.
NO TROPICAL CYCLONE ACTIVITY WAS OBSERVED OVER THE WESTERN NORTH PACIFIC AND THE SOUTH CHINA SEA IN JANUARY.
NO AIRCRAFT WAS DIVERTED IN THE MONTH AS A RESULT OF INCLEMENT WEATHER.
DETAILS OF THE ISSUANCE/HOTSTING AND CANCELLATION/LOWERING OF VARIOUS WARNINGS/SIGNALS IN THE MONTH ARE SUMMARISED IN TABLE 1.1.
MONTHLY METEOROLOGICAL FIGURES AND DEPARTURES FROM NORMAL ARE TABULATED IN TABLE 1.2.
/TABLE 1.1 .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
13
TABLE 1.1 WARNINGS AND SIGNALS IN JANUARY
WARNINGS / SIGNALS
EFFECTIVE DATE AND TIME
STRONG MONSOON SIGNALS JAN 14 1600 — JAN 15 0645
JAN 15 2305 — JAN 16 1200
JAN 27 2230 — JAN 28 1015
FIRE DANGER WARNINGS
YELLOW JAN 1 0615 — JAN 2 0615
JAN 22 0615 — JAN 22 0940
JAN 24 0635 — JAN 26 0600
JAN 27 0000 — JAN 27 1205
JAN 31 0600 - FEB 1 0600
RED JAN 17 0000 — JAN 17 1615
JAN 27 1205 — JAN 31 0600
GAS HEATER ALERTS JAN 14 1630 — JAN 31 1615
TABLE 1.2 FIGURES AND DEPARTURES FROM NORMAL - JANUARY
TOTAL BRIGHT SUNSHINE 132.8 HOURS ; 19.6 HOURS BELOW NORMAL
MEAN DAILY GLOBAL SOLAR RADIATION 9.64 MJ/SQM ; 1.99 MJ/SQM ABOVE NORMAL
TOTAL RAINFALL 33.5 MM ; 10.1 MM ABOVE NORMAL
MEAN AMOUNT OF CLOUD 61% ; 3% ABOVE NORMAL
MEAN RELATIVE HUMIDITY 74% ; 3% ABOVE NORMAL
MEAN DAILY MAXIMUM AIR TEMPERATURE 16.9 DEGREES ; 1.7 DEGREES BELOW NORMAL
MEAN AIR TEMPERATURE 14.6 DEGREES ; 1.2 DEGREES BELOW NORMAL
MEAN DAILY MINIMUM AIR TEMPERATURE 12.6 DEGREES ; 1.0 DEGREE BELOW NORMAL
MEAN DEW POINT 9.6 DEGREES ; 0.6 DEGREE BELOW NORMAL
TOTAL EVAPORATION 58.8 MM ; 38.7 MM BELOW NORMAL
/14.........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
14
CONTRACTORS AND WORKERS PRAISED FOR SAFETY RECORD
*******
THE MANAGEMENT, CONTRACTORS AND WORKERS OF A CONSTRUCTION SITE WERE PRAISED BY THE ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR MAK SAI-YIU, FOR SETTING AN EXCEPTIONAL SAFETY RECORD IN HONG KONG.
"IT TAKES A LOT OF VISION, PLANNING AND SELF-DISCIPLINE TO REACH A LEVEL AS HIGH AS 3.5 MILLION MAN-HOURS, WITHOUT A SINGLE ACCIDENT," MR MAK SAID AT THE SAFETY AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY HELD TODAY (MONDAY) AT THE NEW MOBIL TERMINAL ON TSING YI.
"IT ALSO TAKES A GREAT DEAL OF TEAMWORK AND CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE CONTRACTORS AND BETWEEN MANAGEMENT AND WORKFORCE."
MR MAK NOTED THAT BY INITIATING AN INNOVATIVE AND COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY PROGRAMME, THE NEW MOBIL OIL TERMINAL PROJECT HAD GONE FAR BEYOND THE NORMAL STANDARDS IN HONG KONG.
IT WAS AN EXAMPLE THAT SHOULD BE FOLLOWED BY ALL THOSE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, HE ADDED.
MR MAK ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THERE WAS NO REASON EVER TO ACCEPT \NY LEVEL OF ACCIDENT RATE WITH COMPLACENCY AND THAT THERE WAS NO EXCUSE NOT TO ATM FOR TOTAL SAFETY.
"AVOIDING ACCIDENTS IS NOT COMPLICATED, BUT IT IS A MATTER OF COMMON SENSE AND FOLLOWING SOME SIMPLE RULES," HE SAID, ADDING THAT IT COULD BE ACHIEVED BY PUTTING STRAIGHTFORWARD IDEAS INTO A WORKABLE AND USABLE PROGRAMME.
MR MAK HOPED THAT WORKERS WOULD TAKE WITH THEM THEIR EXPERIENCE OF A SAFE WORKING ENVIRONMENT IN THE PROJECT WHEN THEY MOVED ON TO NEW JOBS AND PROJECTS, AND ENCOURAGED THEIR NEW COLLEAGUES TO FOLLOW SIMILAR PRACTICES.
------0-------
LEGCO TO DEBATE FAIR TRADE POLICY
*****
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL DEBATE A MOTION ON FAIR TRADE POLICY AT ITS MEETING ON WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY 17).
THE MOTION IS PROPOSED BY THE HON FRED LI.
THE HON JIMMY MCGREGOR WILL PROPOSE AN AMENDMENT TO THE MOTION.
ANOTHER MOTION ON MONITORING OF MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION AND KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION WILL BE MOVED BY THE HON LAU CHIN-SHEK.
MEMBERS WILL ASK 20 QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER TWO BILLS AT THE SITTING.
/COMPANIES (AMENDMENT)
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
15
COMPANIES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1993 WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS. DEBATE ON IT IS DUE TO BE ADJOURNED.
DEBATE ON FORESTS AND COUNTRYSIDE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1992 WILL BE RESUMED. IT WILL GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE GIVEN A THIRD READING.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OBSERVE THE PRO( EEDINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SITTING. THEY MAY RESERVE SEATS IN IHE PUBLIC GALLERIES BY PHONING 869 9492.
------0-------
SALT WATER CUT IN KOWLOON EAST
» * * * *
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO ALL PREMISES IN KOWLOON EAST WILL BE CUT OFF FROM 9 AM TO 8 PM ON WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY I<) TO FACILITATE REPAIR WORK ON THE SALT WATER PUMPING SYSTEM.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AND KOWLOON HOSPITAL AS WELL AS ALL PREMISES IN HUNG HOM, TO KWA WAN, TUNG TAU, WONG TAI SIN, LOK FU, WANG TAU HOM, CHUK YUEN, KOWLOON TONG, KOWLOON CITY, MA TAU WAI AND MA TAU KOK.
------0--------
AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES RESCUERS TRY OUT SKILLS * * * * *
MORE THAN 20 PEOPLE "INJURED" IN A RAINSTORM ON A HO MAN TIN HILLSIDE WERE SPEEDILY RESCUED AND CARRIED DOWNHILL BY A TEAM OF OFFICERS FROM THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES (AMS) EMERGENCY RESPONSE TASK FORCE vERTF) IN A MOCK EXERCISE CONDUCTED TODAY (MONDAY).
THE EXERCISE WAS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE ONGOING TRAINING AND FAMILIARISATION TO THE AMS OFFICERS AND MEMBERS IN PRE-HOSPITAL CARE SKILL, PARAMEDIC TREATMENT AND SEARCH AND RESCUE TECHNIQUE.
SPEAKING TO THE PRESS AFTER THE EXERCISE, THE COMMISSIONER OF AMS, DR S H LEE, SAID THE ERTF WAS EXPECTED TO REPORT TO INCIDENT SITES TO GIVE ON-THE-SPOT PARAMEDIC TREATMENT WITHIN 30 TO 45 MINUTES AFTER BEING MOBILISED.
THE ERTF IS A FORWARD PARTY OF AMS FOR ANY EMERGENCY. THEY ARE REINFORCED BY UNIFORMED MEMBERS FROM THE DISTRICT IN WHICH A DISASTER OCCURS.
DR LEE SAID: "SUCH A TWO-TIER MOBILISATION WILL ENABLE QUICK RESPONSE AND AT THE SAME TIME EFFECTIVE UTILISATION OF THE MANPOWER RESOURCE WITHIN THE AMS."
------0--------
/16......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
16
TSUEN WAN MUSIC CENTRE MOVES
*****
TO NEW OFFICE
THE TSUEN WAN MUSIC CENTRE OF THE MUSIC OFFICE WILL OPERATE FROM ITS NEW PREMISES ON FIRST FLOOR, TSUEN WAN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 38 SAI LAU KOK ROAD, TSUEN WAN FROM SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 20).
THE NEW TELEPHONE NUMBERS ARE:
DISTRICT SECRETARY 417 6431
ENQUIRIES 417 6430
------0------
FRESH WATER CUT IN HO MAN TIN
*****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN HO MAN TIN WILL GO OFF FROM 11 PM ON WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY 17) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE PREMISES AT SHEUNG LOK STREET, SHEUNG SHING STREET AND SHEUNG HONG STREET.
------0-------
WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * * *
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 53.3 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 312.540 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 182.266 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 31.1 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
------0-------
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY *****
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON MONDAY (FEBRUARY 15) UP TO 4.30 PM
1. REVIEWING PRESS REPORTS.
2. STUDYING MATERIAL ON FIRST-AID TRAINING IN THE POLICE.
NOTE:
DURING THE WEEKEND: GENERAL REVIEW OF FILES AND CORRESPONDENCE
0 -
/17
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
17 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS * * * * *
TENDER DATE FEB 15, 93
PAPER ON OFFER GOVT BONDS
ISSUE NUMBER 2502
AMOUNT APPLIED HK$2,575 MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HKS500 MN
AV PRICE (YIELD) ACCEPTED 100.40 (4.59)
LOWEST PRICE (YIELD) ACCEPTED 100.40 (4.59)
PRO RATA RATIO ABOUT 91 PCT
AV TENDER PRICE (YIELD) 100.29 (4.65)
--------0-----------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT FV IIANGI Fl ND MONE> MARK FT OPIIHTIONS ♦ ♦ * t ♦
S MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOI’N’I REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAI-NET INJECTTON/WTTHDRAWAL TODA\ EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE \(Col NT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/1.00 OFFER TWI
I ,9 50
+ 200
2,150
NIL
-I , 500
650
115.00 * +0. 1♦ 15.2.93
/HONG KONG .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1993
18
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS TERM ISSUE HONG KONG COUPON GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.05 PCT 12 MONTHS 2402 5.50 102.13 3.78
1 MONTH 3.04 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 100.61 3.99
3 MONTHS 3.05 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.65 4.28
6 MONTHS 12 MONTHS 3.14 PCT 3.54 PCT 21 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.64 4.46
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 6,202MN
CLOSED 15 FEBRUARY 1993
-----0------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
JANUARY STATISTICS OF SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENTS OF FLATS 1
TEACHER EDUCATION STANDARD WILL BE RAISED ....................... 3
UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS FOR OCTOBER -DECEMBER ...................................................... 3
INSPECTOR APPOINTED ON SHARES OWNERSHIP ......................... 4
CHLORINATION HOUSE STEPS UP WATER TREATMENT WORKS SAFETY .... 4
NEW ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICER APPOINTED .......................... 6
ANTI-POLLUTION PROSECUTION CASES PUBLISHED ...................... 6
NATHAN ROAD BUILDING DECLARED DANGEROUS ........................ 11
1993 MUSIC OFFICE ANNUAL GALA .................................. 11
EASTERN ARTS FESTIVAL .......................................... 12
NEW POST OFFICE IN TSUEN WAN ................................... 13
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY .......................................... 14
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS .............. 14
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
15
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
1
JANUARY STATISTICS OF SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENTS OF FLATS
*****
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENTS OF FLATS REGISTERED IN THE LAND OFFICE IN THE MONTH OF JANUARY 1993 DECREASED BY 46.7 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE PREVIOUS MONTH AND BY 58.4 PER CENT COMPARED WITH JANUARY LAST YEAR.
IN ALL, 4,250 SUCH AGREEMENTS WERE REGISTERED DURING THE MONTH.
THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF THE CONSIDERATIONS INVOLVED WAS ABOUT $11.94 BILLION.
THESE FIGURES WERE INCLUDED IN PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS REGISTERED TN THE LAND REGISTRIES RELEASED TODAY (TUESDAY)
THE MONTHLY STATISTICS ON URBAN AND NEW TERRITORIES BY THE REGISTRAR GENERAL.
THERE WERE 17 BUILDING MORTGAGES AND 10,001 OTHER MORTGAGES REGISTERED IN THE MONTH, COMPARED 1’0 31 AND 19,022 RESPECTIVELY IN JANUARY 1992.
THE TOTAL AMOUNT SECURED UNDER NEW BUILDING MORTGAGES TN THE MONTH WAS ABOUT $0.61 BILLION COMPARED WITH ABOUT $0.58 BILLION IN JANUARY 1992.
THE TOTAL AMOUNT SECURED UNDER NEW MORTGAGES IN THE MONTH OTHER THAN BUILDING MORTGAGES DROPPED BY 35.6 PER CENT FROM ABOUT $13.63 BILLION IN JANUARY 1992 TO ABOUT $8.78 BILLION TN JANUARY 1993.
THE TOTAL AMOUNT ACTUALLY DRAWN DOWN ON BUILDING AND OTHER MORTGAGES AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME MAY BE SIGNIFICANTLY LESS THAN THE TOTAL AMOUNT SECURED.
REPAYMENTS UNDER MORTGAGES OF ALL KINDS, AS EVIDENCED BY DISCHARGES AND MORTGAGEE’S RECEIPTS, DECREASED BY 6.9 PER CENT FROM ABOUT $3.95 BILLION IN JANUARY 1992 TO ABOUT $3.68 BILLION IN JANUARY 1993.
/REGISTRAR GENERAL'S .....
REGISTRAR GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT
Consolidated Monthly Statistics in respect of deeds received for registration in the Urban aqd New Territories DistrictLand Registries
Month: January 1993
Number of Deeds received for Registration Consideration ($)
Item Nature of Deeds Urban New Territories Total Urban New Territories Total
1. Assignments of undivided shares ( 6,684 6.976 ) ( 2.586 2.658 ) ( 9,270 9,634 ) 16,859,708,601.07 3,572.402.083.70 20.432,110,684.77
2. Assignments of whole lot, section or sub-section 32 554 586 4.119.830.499.00 1,097,573,073M 5,217,403,572.40
Sub-total (1) ♦ (2) 6,716 3,140 9,856 20.979.539,100.07 4,669,975,157.10 25,649,514.257.17
3. Building Mortgagea/Building Legal Charges 3 14 17 607,000,000.00 6,321,000.00 613,321,000.00
4. Mortgagea/Legal Charges (other than item 3) 6,927 3,074 10,001 7,329,684,345.99 1,449,364,457.34 8,779.048.803.33
Sub-total (3) ♦ (4) 6,930 3,088 10,018 7,936,684,345.99 1.455.685,457.34 9.392,369,803.33
5. Agreements for Sale and Purchase of Undivided Shares ( 2,708 2,940 ) ( 1.542 1.595 ) ( 4.250 4,535 ) 9,501,582.803.66 2.440,228,338.50 11,941,811,142.16
6. Agreements for Sale and Purchase of Whole Lot. Section or Sub-section 24 206 230 2,273,050,918.48 886.602,331.15 3.159,653,249.63
Sub-total (5) ♦ (6) 2,732 1,748 4,480 11,774,633,722.14 3,326.830.669.65 15,101.464,391.79
7. Receipts/Discharge/Relcases 4,195 2,267 6,462 3,015,164.926.05 666.338,494.41 3,681,503,420.46
8. Leases/Tenancy Agreements 407 168 575
9. Exclusion Orders 0 0 0
10. Others 3,764 2.113 5.877
Total 24,744 12,524 37,268 43.706.022,094.25 10.118,829.778.50 53,824,851.872.75
Note : Figures within brackets denote number of units involved
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
I I FSD\^ , FEBRI \R\ 16, 1993
3
TEACHER EDUCATION STANDARD WILL BE RAISED ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ *
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECENT COMMENTS ON THE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION ENTRY REQUIREMENTS, Till* EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ISSUED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT:
"THE STANDARD OF TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMMES OPERATED BY THE COLLEGES OF EDUCATION WILL BE RAISED SINCE MOST OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS IN EDUCATION COMMISSION REPORT NO. 5 TO UPGRADING THE COLLEGES WILL BE IMPLEMENTED SHORTLY BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND BY THE NEWLY ESTABLISHED PROVISIONAL GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION.
"THE REVISIONS UNDER CONSIDERATION ARE AIMED AT GREATER FLEXIBILITY AND WIDENING THE NET OF ELIGIBILITY TO ATTRACT MORE POTENTIAL TEACHERS.
"THE SUITABILITY OF THE APPI.HANTS WILL NOT ONLY BE DETERMINED BY THE MINIMUM ENTRY QUALIFICATION, THEY MUST ALSO OBTAIN GOOD RESULTS IN THE SELECTION INTERVIEW AND PRACTICAL TESTS, AS WELL AS ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENT FOR THEIR CHOICE OF ELECTIVE SUBJECTS, NORMALLY REQUIRED AT GRADE C OR \BO\ F VI HMFE.
’’LAST YEAR, COMPETITION WAS VERY KEEN, WITH ONLY ONE OUT OF EVERY FIVE ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS BEING SELECTED FOR THE THREE-YEAR COURSES.
"THE DEPARTMENT IS CONFIDENT THAT COLLEGE LECTURERS HAVE THE ABILITY AND PROFESSIONALISM TO TRAIN ALL SELECTED TEACHER TRAINERS TO BE COMPETENT TEACHERS AFTER THEIR TRAINING IN THE COLLEGES. THERE IS NO INDICATION THAT THE STANDARD Ol THE COLLEGES OF EDUCATION WOULD BE LOWERED. ’’
UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS FOR OCTOBER - DECEMBER
THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE DECEMBER 1992 WAS 2.1%, AND THF UNDEREMPLOYMENT ACCORDING TO THE LATEST LABOUR FORCE STATISTIC’S (TUESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
FOR OCTOBER RATI WAS 2.0%, RELEASED TODAY
THE PROVES IONAL PERIOD NOVEMBER 1992 -UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE WAS
SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR THE JANUARY 1993 WAS 2.0%, WHILE THE PROVISIONAL 1.9%.
THE LATEST FIGURES SUGGEST THAT UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE REMAINED GENERALLY
BOTH THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE STABI,E IN REC’ENT MONTHS .
AND
DURING THE PERIOD OC TOBER - DEC 'EMBER UNEMPLOYED PERSONS, ADJUSTED FOR VARIATIONS IN TIME JOB-SEEKERS, WAS ESTIMATED AT 58,700, UNDEREMPLOYED PERSONS WAS ESTIMATED AT 56,700.
1992, THE THE NUMBER WHILE THE
NUMBER OF OF FIRST-NUMBER OF
/THE UNEMPLOYMENT .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
4
THE UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS WERE OBTAINED FROM A CONTINUOUS GENERAL HOUSEHOLD SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE SURVEY FOR OCTOBER - DECEMBER 1992 COVERED A QUARTERLY SAMPLE OF SOME 11,900 HOUSEHOLDS OR 40,900 PERSONS, SELECTED SCIENTIFICALLY TO REPRESENT THE LAND-BASED CIVILIAN NON-INSTITUTIONAL POPULATION IN HONG KONG.
RELEVANT DATA WAS OBTAINED IN THE SURVEY BY INTERVIEWING EACH INDIVIDUAL MEMBER AGED 15 AND ABOVE IN THE HOUSEHOLDS SAMPLED.
IN THE SURVEY, THE DEFINITIONS USED IN MEASURING UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT FOLLOW CLOSELY THOSE RECOMMENDED BY THE INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION.
DETAILED ANALYSIS OF LABOUR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS IS GIVEN TN THE REPORT ON THE GENERAL HOUSEHOLD SURVEY WHICH IS PUBLISHED FOUR TIMES A YEAR.
THE NEXT REPORT COVERING THE QUARTER ENDING DECEMBER 1992 WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLIC AT IONS SALES CENTRE BY THE END OF MARCH AT $15.50 A COPY.
-----0--------
INSPECTOR APPOINTED ON SHARES OWNERSHIP
*****
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THIS (TUESDAY) AFTERNOON THAT THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, IN EXERCISE OF THE POWERS CONFERRED ON HIM BY SECTION 33 OF THE SECURITIES (DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS) ORDINANCE (CHAPTER 396), HAS APPOINTED MR GERARD .1 MCMAHON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION AS INSPECTOR TO INVESTIGATE AND REPORT ON THE OWNERSHIP OF SHARES IN HONGKEW HOLDINGS LIMITED.
-----0-------
CHLORINATION HOUSE STEPS UP W A TER TREATMENT WORKS SAFETY
*****
HONG KONG ENJOYS ONE OF THE SAFEST WATER SUPPLIES IN THE WORLD, THE QUALITY OF WHICH CONFORMS STRICTLY TO THE GUIDELINES FOR DRINKING WATER QUALITY RECOMMENDED B^ THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES, MR HU MAN-SHIU, TODAY (TUESDAY) DURING A PRESS VISIT TO THE NEWLY COMMISSIONED CHLORINATION HOUSE Ob’ THE SHA TIN TREATMENT WORKS.
MR HU SAID THE $32 MILLION INSTALLATION WAS AIMED AT MINIMISING RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE STORAGE AND HANDLING OF CHLORINE IN THE TREATMENT WORKS.
’’CHLORINE, AN EFFECTIVE RELIABLE DISINFECTANT, IS USED WIDELY FOR DRINKING WATER DISINFECTION. IK LINE WITH THE PRACTICE ADOPTED IN MOST DEVELOPED COUNTRIES, CHLORINE IS ALSO USED IN HONG KONG FOR DRINKING WATER TREATMENT.
/’’IN VIEW............
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
5
"IN VIEW OF THE RISKS ASSOC I ATE!) WITH STORAGE AND HANDLING OF CHLORINE, VERY STRINGENT MEASURES AGAINST POSSIBLE LEAKAGE HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED TO ENSURE OPERATIONAL SAFETY AT ALL TIMES," HE SAID.
THE NEW CHLORINATION HOUSE WAS DESIGNED TN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF A HAZARD ASSESSMENT STUDY COMMISSIONED BY THE GOVERNMENT EARLIER ON TREATMENT WORKS.
ITS MAIN FEATURE INCLUDES A CONTAIN-AND-ABSORB SYSTEM WHICH WILL NEUTRALISE THROUGH ITS CHLORINE SCRUBBING PLANT THE LEAKED CHLORINE WITH SODIUM HYDROXIDE WITHIN THE CHLORINATION HOUSE UNTIL THE CHLORINE CONTENT DROPS TO A SAFE LEVEL.
THE PLANT IS ALSO INSTALLED WITH CHLORINE LEAK DETECTORS AT STRATEGIC LOCATIONS, WITH ALL ACCESS DOORS SELF-CLOSING AND GAS-SEALED.
THE PREVIOUS BULK TANKS FOR CHLORINE STORAGE, REPLACED BY ONE-TONNE STEEL DRUMS, HAVE BEEN ABANDONED SINCE THE COMMISSIONING OF THE NEW INSTALLATION.
THE SHA TIN TREATMENT WORKS, WITH A TREATMENT CAPACITY OF 1,227,000 CUBIC METRES A DAY, IS THE LARGEST ONE IN HONG KONG. AS IT CONTRIBUTES TO ABOUT 50 PER CENT OF POTABLE WATER SUPPLY IN THE TERRITORY, THERE IS A NEED TO HAVE SUFFICIENT STOCK OF CHLORINE AT ALL TIMES FOR TREATMENT PURPOSE.
"THE CURRENT PRACTICE TN HONG KONG REGARDING THE LIMIT OF CHLORINE STORAGE IS FAR MORE STRINGENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE REQUIREMENTS SET BY THE COMMISSION OF EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES.
"ANY INSTALLATION HAVING A CHLORINE STOCK OF 10 TONNES OR MORE IS CLASSIFIED AS A POTENTIAL HAZARDOUS INSTALLATION AND WILL UNDERGO A THOROUGH HAZARD STUDY.
"RECOMMENDED SAFETY MEASURES WILL BE COMPLIANCE WITH THE RISK GUIDELINES SET BY SAID.
ADOPTED TO ENSURE FULL THE GOVERNMENT," MR HU
ON OTHER SAFETY MEASURES, MR HU SAID TREATMENT WORKS WERE ALL WELL TRAINED AND HANDLING OF CHLORINE AND EMERGENCY SITUATION.
STAFF MEMBERS OF THE EQUIPPED IN THE DAILY
FURTHERMORE, A DIRECT ALARM LINK HAS BEEN CONNECTED TO THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT’S CONTROI CENTRE FOR THEIR PROMPT ACTION, HE ADDED.
MEMBERS OF THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD WERE BRIEFED ABOUT THE NEW INSTALLATION EARLIER TODAY, FOLLOWED BY A TOUR TO SEE FOR THEMSELVES THE OPERATION OF THE TREATMENT WORKS.
--------0-----------
/6 ........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
6
NEW ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICER APPOINTED
*****
A PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR CHRISTOPHER WONG KWOK-BUN, HAS BEEN APPOINTED 1'0 SUCCEED MR KIM SALKELD AS DISTRICT OFFICER OF ISLANDS FROM TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
MR WONG HAS BEEN WITH THE TRANSPORT BRANCH SINCE MAY 1988.
HE JOINED THE GOVERNMENT AS AN ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER IN SEPTEMBER 1979.
AFTER A FIVE-MONTH ATTACHMENT TO THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND A SEVEN-MONTH SECONDMENT TO THE CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH, MR WONG WENT ON OVERSEAS TRAINING FOR A YEAR.
ON HIS RETURN, MR WONG SERVED IN A NUMBER OF GOVERNMENT BRANCHES AND DEPARTMENTS, INCLUDING THE THEN LANDS AND WORKS BRANCH, SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION AND THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
HE WAS PROMOTED TO SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER TN APRIL 1988.
-----0-------
ANT I-POLLUTION PROSECUTION CASES PUBLISHED
*****
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY) RELEASED A LIST OF COMPANIES THAT HAVE BEEN FOUND GUILTY IN THE COURTS TN JANUARY OF BREACHING ANTI-POLLUTION LEGISLATION CURRENTLY ENFORCED BY THE DEPARTMENT.
SIMILAR ANNOUNCEMENTS WILL BE MADE MONTHLY.
AS THE LEGAL PROCEEDINGS COULD BE TIME CONSUMING, THERE WAS SOMETIMES A LENGTHY TIME GAP BETWEEN THE DATE OF THE OFFENCE AND THE CONVICTION DATE.
FOLLOWING IS THE LIST OF PROSECUTION CASES AND THE ASSOCIATED FINES IMPOSED BY THE COURTS DURING .JANUARY:
NAME (COMPANY/ PERSON) ADDRESS DATE OF OFFENCE NATURE OF OFFENCE RECORD OF
FINES($) OFFENCE COURT
1.CHARTER-HOUSE HOTEL LTD WANCHAI RD, WAN CHAI 9.3.92- 8.5.92 APCO : UNAUTHORISED INSTALLATION OR ALTERATION OF FURNACES 2,000 1ST EASTERN
2.GRAND GA 1 N DEVELOPMENT HENNESSY RD, WAN CHAI 27.3.92- 4.6.92 APCO : 3,000 1ST
LTD
/3.KITIME .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
7
3.K1TIME DEVELOPMENT LTD BURROWS 20.5.92- APCO : " 2,000 1ST KWUN TONG
ST, 30.6.92
WAN CHAI
4 .THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG SASSOON 2.6.92- RD, 12.8.92 POK FU LAM APCO : ” 1,000 1ST WESTERN
5.TAK SON ENGINEERING CO LTD QUEEN’S 2.6.92- RD CENTRAL,2.7.92 CENTRAL APCO : 2,000 UNAUTHORISED INSTALLATION OR ALTERATION OF CHIMNEY 1ST FANLING
6.COLLIERS JARDINE PROPERTIES LTD FA PENG 29.6.92 RD, CHEUNG CHAU WPCO ! 10,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE SOUTHERN WATER. CONTROL ZONE 3RD WESTERN
7.PLATFORM COMPANY LTD PAK SHA 3.7.92 WAN, SAI KUNG WPCO : 20,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE PORT SHELTER WATER CONTROL ZONE 2ND KWUN TONG
8.OWNSETS INVESTMENTS LTD BELCHER’S 14.7.92 ST, KENNEDY TOWN NCO : 10,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT TN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 2ND WESTERN
9.CHAN KUI-PUI PAK SHA 28.7.92 TSUEN, YUEN LONG WPCO : 5,000 BEING THE OCCUPIER OF THE PREMISES FROM WHICH POLLUTING MATTER WAS DISCHARGED IN THE DEEP BAY WATER CONTROL ZONE 1ST FANLING
10.CHINA OVERSEAS LAND & INVESTMENT LTD LUEN SHING 3.8.92 ST, FANLING NCO : 5,000 CARRY OUT PERCUSSIVE PILING NOT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF /X PERMIT 1ST FANLING
/ll.LAU YEE- .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
8
ll.LAU YEE- LUEN SHING 3.8.92 NCO : 3,000 PERMIT PERCUSSIVE PILING NOT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF A PERMIT 1ST tt
CHEUNG ST, FANLING
12.HONG KONG PAPER MILLS LTD YING PUN, SHEUNG SHUI 10.8.92 WPCO : 5,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER TN THE DEEP BAY WATER CONTROL ZONE 1ST • 1
13.CHOI HON-CHUEN TAI PING SHAN ST, SHEUNG WAN 18.8.92 WDO : 1,000 KEEPING MORE THAN 10 PIGEONS IN PROHIBITION AREA (1), I.E. H.K. ISLAND 1ST WESTERN
14.REALTY WEAVING & DYEING WORKS LTD KAM SHEUNG RD, KAM TIN 18.8.92 WPCO : 10,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE DEEP BAY WATER CONTROL ZONE 3RD FANLING
15.MODERN CHINA MANAGEMENT LTD JAVA RD, NORTH POINT 20.8.92 NCO : 5,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 1ST EASTERN
16.SHING LOONG RATTAN CO LTD HO SHEUNG HEUNG, SHEUNG SHUT 1.9.92
17.CHINESE KING’S DEVELOPMENT LTD TO KWA WAN RD, TO KWA WAN 3.9.92
18.KWONG SIU-YUK AS HUNG TAO SOYA BEAN PRODUCTS FACTORY HO SHEUNG HEUNG, SHEUNG SHUI 15.9.92
WPCO : 5,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE DEEP BAY WATER CONTROL ZONE 1ST FANLING
NCO : 5,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 3RD SAN PO KONG
WPCO : 10,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE DEEP BAY WATER CONTROL ZONE 1ST FANLING
/19.MAY MOON .......
9
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
19.MAY MOON (NGAU TAU KOK) ASSOCIATION LTD NGAU TAU 16.9. KOK RD, NGAU TAU KOK 92 APCO : 5,000 FAILURE TO ABATE AN AIR POLLUTANT NUISANCE (GENERAL) 1ST KWUN TONG
20.CONVENIENCE FOODS INTERNATIONAL LTD DAI FU ST, TA I PO INDUSTRIAL ESTATE 24.9. 92 WPCO : 15,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE TOLO HARBOUR AND CHANNEL WATER CONTROL ZONE 2ND SHA TIN
21.CHINA RESOURCES PURCHASING CO LTD HENNESSY RD, WAN CHAT 25.9. 92 NCO : 3,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 1ST EASTERN
22.SAINT GALERIE TILES LTD DAI WONG ST, TAI PO INDUSTRIAL ESTATE 28.9. 92 WPCO : 25,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE TOLO HARBOUR AND CHANNEL WATER CONTROL ZONE 4TH SHA TIN
23.LAW KAM- YIU AS TAT YICK FOOD CO HUNG SHUT KIU, YUEN LONG 8.10. 92 WPCO : 15,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE DEEP BAY WATER CONTROL ZONE 2ND FANLING
24.CHENG KAI-MAN YAN OI ST, SAN PO KONG 14.10 .92 NCO : 1,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 1ST SAN PO KONG
25.TSANG WA CLEAR WATER BAY RD, SAI KUNG 14.10 .92 NCO : 5,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 1ST KWUN TONG
26.MAN LEE DYEING & WEAVING FTY KWUN TONG RD, KWUN TONG 22.10 .92 APCO : 3,000 EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 1ST ft
/27.SUNAM LTD
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
10
27.SUNAM LTD QUEEN’S 27.10.92 ROAD CENTRAL, CENTRAL
NCO : 10,000
FAILURE TO
COMPLY WITH THE
REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE
2ND WESTERN
28.THE SAI YING 30.10.92 NCO :
INCORPORATED PUN OWNERS OF WAH
FAI COURT
29.HO WAH JOHNSTON 4.11.92 NCO : GOURMETS LTD RD, WAN CHAT
7,500 1ST
3,000 1ST EASTERN
NOTE :
APCO : AIR POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE
NCO : NOISE CONTROL ORDINANCE
WPCO : WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE
WDO : WASTE DISPOSAL ORDINANCE
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THREE PROSECUTED BY THE POLICE FOR CAUSING EXCESSIVE NOISE PLACE AT NIGHT. EACH OF THEM WAS FINED $600 IN COURT.
PERSONS WERE
FROM DOMESTIC
NOTE TO EDITORS :
ENQUIRIES ON SPECIFIC CASES CAN BE DIRECTED TO THE FOLLOWING PRINCIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICERS:
APCO MR FRANKLIN CHUNG TEL 594 6200
NCO MR STEVEN HO TEL 594 6500
WPCO CASE 7 MR R C ROOTHAM TEL 755 2200
CASE 20,22 MR PATRICK LEI TEL 685 1133
CASE 9,12,14,16, DR 18,23 ELLEN ('HAN TEL 417 6133
CASE 6 MR MURRAY LUO TEL 835 1 184
WDO : MR PATRICK LET TEL 685 1 133
HOWEVER, ENQUIRIES ON GENERAL ISSUES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE DEPARTMENT’S MEDIA RELATIONS SECTION.
0----------
/Il ........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
- 11
NATHAN ROAD BUILDING DECLARED DANGEROUS *****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY TODAY (TUESDAY) DECLARED THE FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD FLOORS OF THE FOUR-STOREY BUILDING AT 190 NATHAN ROAD IN TSIM SHA TSUI TO BE DANGEROUS.
A STATEMENT ISSUED BY THE PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT BUILDING SURVEYOR (PGBS) THIS MORNING POINTED OUT THAT STAFF OF THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE FOUND ONE OF THE EX IT ROUTES OF THE BUILDING HAD BEEN REMOVED, SERIOUSLY JEOPARDISING THE SAFETY OF THE OCCUPANTS ON THE FIRST TO THIRD FLOORS OF THE BUILDING TN THE EVENT OF FIRE OR OTHER EMERGENCY.
THE PGBS SAID THEREFORE THE FIRST TO THIRD FLOORS OF THE BUILDING SHOULD BE CLOSED UNTIL THE ORIGINAL MEANS OF ESCAPE ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN REINSTATED.
THE OWNERS WILL BE ORDERED TO CARRY OUT THE NECESSARY REINSTATEMENT WORKS.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON MARCH 31 WAS POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY.
-----0-------
1993 MUSIC OFFICE ANNUAL GALA
*****
MORE THAN 500 YOUNG MUSICIANS WILL PERFORM AT THE MUSIC OFFICE’S ANNUAL GALA TO BE HELD AT THE HONG KONG CULTURAL CENTRE CONCERT HALL ON MARCH 14 (SUNDAY).
THE CONCERT WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM.
THE ANNUAL GALA IS ONE OF THE MAJOR ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE IN THE YEAR OF THE ROOSTER TO REVIEW THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF ITS TRAINEES WHO PARTICIPATED IN THE INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC TRAINING SCHEME LAST YEAR.
IT WILL ALSO PROVIDE THE TRAINEES WITH A VALUABLE OPPORTUNITY TO PERFORM BEFORE THEIR PARENTS, TEACHERS, FRIENDS AND THE PUBLIC.
"PARENTS WILL SURELY BE VERY PROUD OF THEIR CHILDREN’S ACHIEVEMENTS WHILE WATCHING THEM PERFORM ON THE STAGE," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE MUSIC OFFICE SAID.
SOME OF THE PERFORMERS WERE WINNERS IN THE SCHOOLS MUSIC FESTIVAL OR HAD REPRESENTED HONG KONG TO PAY GOODWILL VISITS TO SINGAPORE, AUSTRALIA, THE UNITED KINGDOM, CANADA AND THE UNITED STATES IN PAST YEARS.
PERFORMING IN THE CONCERT WILL BE THE HONG KONG YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA, HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONIC BAND, HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, MUSIC OFFICE YOUTH CHOIR AND CHILDREN’S CHOIR, HONG KONG YOUTH CHINESE PLUCKED STRING ORCHESTRA AND HONG KONG YOUTH STRINGS.
/THEY WILL
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
12
THEY WILL PLAY SOME GREAT PIECES SUCH AS TCHAIKOVSKY’S "SERENADE FOR STRING ORCHESTRA IN (’ MAJOR OP. 48" AND THE CHINESE TRADITIONAL "NIGHT SONG" AND "BEAUTIFUL SCENE OF THE EASTERN YANGTZE RIVER".
THE CHAIRMAN OF COUNCIL OF THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS, DR HELMUT SOHMEN, WILL OFFICIATE AT A PERSENTATION CEREMONY DURING WHICH OUTSTANDING TRAINEES, ORCHESTRAL, CHOIR AND BAND MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE CERTIFICATES OF MERIT OR AWARDS.
TICKETS FOR THE ANNUAL GALA, AT $30 AND $50 EACH, ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT ALL URBT1X OUTLETS. ENQUIRIES ('AN BE MADE ON TEL 582 5314.
------0-------
EASTERN ARTS FESTIVAL
* * *
A 17-DAY FESTIVAL TO PROMOTE ARTS AND CULTURE IN EASTERN DISTRICT WILL BEGIN THIS FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 19).
THE FESTIVAL IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD, URBAN COUNCIL AND THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND SPONSORED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL AND THE MISU' OFFICE.
IT 1N( LUDES \ NUMBER OF CONCERTS AND CONTESTS.
OF THEM, ORCHESTRAL MUSIC PERFORMANCES BY THE MUSIC OFFICE INSTRUCTORS’ CHINESE ORCHESTRA WILL BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 20. CAROLS AND BALLADS WILL BE PERFORMED BY THE 70-STRONG EASTERN DISTRICT CHILDREN’S CHOIR ON FEBRUARY 27.
THERE WILL ALSO BE OUTDOOR DRAWING CONTESTS FOR PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS AT THE CAUSEWAY BAY TYPHOON SHELTER THIS SATURDAY, FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS CONTESTS FOR HOUSEWIVES AND WORKING WOMEN THE FOLLOWING DA'i AND A PHOTO CONI EST ON THF THEMES OF THE PAST AND PRESENT ASPECTS OF THE DISTRICT.
A CHINESE CALLIGRAPHY COMPETITION FOR THOSE AGED UNDER 40 WILL BE HELD NEXT SATURDAY AT HONG KONG CHINESE WOMEN’S CLUB COLLEGE IN SHAU KEI WAN.
ALL WINNING ENTRIES WILL RE DISPLAYED AT A CARNIVAL IN CITYPLAZA ON MARCH 7.
THE EVENTS WILL BE LAUNCHED WITH \ CONCERT - YRTS AND CULTURE APPRECIATION NIGHT - AT 7.30 PM ON FRIDAY AT THE SAI WAN HO (’I VIC CENTRE THEATRE.
HIGHLIGHTS WILL INCLUDE A VARIETY SHOW FEATURING CHINESE ORCHESTRAL MUSIC, CANTONESE OPERA, TRADITIONAL DANCING AND SINGING.
EASTERN DISTRICT OFF I ('ER, MR STEVE BARCLAY; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR SHUM CHOI-SANG AND URBAN COUNCILLOR, MS TING YUK-CHEE, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
/ENQUIRIES CAN .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
13
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 'III. RAG 65.31 \ND 886 6515.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES \RE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CONCERT OF THE EASTERN I) I STR I CT ARI’S EI'S Tl \ Al VND IIS VARIOUS EVENTS WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 7 . .30 I’M ON FRIDAY AT THE SAI WAN HO C IVI( CENTRE THEATRE.
COPIES OF POSTERS AND LEAFLETS VBOl'T THE FESTIVAL WILL BE BOXED LATER TODA>.
-----0------
NEW POST OFFICE IN TSUEN WAN * ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, MR M PAGLIARI, ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT THE NEW TEXACO ROAD POST OFFICE |.O(’A’l'ED AT SHOPS 25-.30, GROUND FLOOR, WEALTHY GARDEN, 28-32 TEXACO ROAD, TSUEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES, WILL NOW OPEN AT 9 . .30 AM ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1R.
THIS OFFICE WILL REPLACE THE NEARBV TSUEN WING STREET POST OFFICE AT 18-.32 TSUEN WING STREET WHICH WILL CLOSE FOR BUSINESS AT 5 PM ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17.
THE HOURS OF BUSINESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBER OF THE NEW OFFICE WILL BE THE SAME AS THOSE OF THE TSUEN WING STREET POST OFFICE.
THERE WILL BE 200 ADDITIONAL P O BOXES, MAKING Up A TOTAL OF 1,000 P O BOXES AT THE NEW OFFICE.
LOCAL PHILATELISTS WILL WISH TO NOTE THAT SPEC I AL HANDBACK SERVICE WILL BE AVAILABLE ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, AT THE TSUEN WING STREET POST OFFICE FOR UNREGISTERED FULLV POSTAGE PREPAID "LAST DAY COVERS"; AND ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, AT THE NEW TEXACO ROAD POST OFFICE FOR UNREGISTERED FULLY POSTAGE PREPAID "FIRST DAY COVERS".
THESE PRIVATELY PREPARED (’OVERS WILL BE ACCEPTED OVER THE COUNTER, IMPRESSED WITH THE NORMAL POST OFFICE DATESTAMP AND HANDED BACK TO THE PERSON REPRESENTING THEM.
- - 0 -----------
/14.........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1993
14
LAN KWAI H)M. INQUIRE * ♦ »
OUTLINE OP' WORK DONE ON TUESDAY ( FEBRUARY 1 6 ) UI’ TO I . 30 PM
1. LIAISING WITH QUEEN MARV HOSPITAL ON THE QUESTION OF PSYCHOLOGISTS.
2. VISIT TO FIRE SERVICES COMMUNI CAT I ON CENTRE.
3. CORRESPONDENCE. -----------------------------------0-------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
CLINICAI
TENDER RESULTS *****
TENDER DATE- 16 FEB 93 16 FEB 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q307 H.358
AMOUNT APPLIED HK$2,7OO MN HK$ 1,320 MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HK$1,000 MN HKS400 MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 3.07 PCT 3.20 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 3.08 PCT 3.20 PCT
PRO RATA RATIO ABOUT 69 PCT ABOUT 88 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 3.09 PCT 3.26 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANG E FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 22 FEBRUARY 1993 -
TENDER DATE 23 FER 93 23 FEB 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q308 Y386
ISSUE DATE 24 FEB 93 24 FEB 93
MATURITY DATE 26 MAY 93 23 FEB 93
TENOR 91 DAYS 3G4 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HK$1,000 + 200 MN HKS200 + 60 MN
-----0------
Z15
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16,
1993
- 15 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE TN THE ACCOUNT 650
REVERSAL OF LAF’ +1,500
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,150
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY NIL
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,150
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 114.8 *-0.2* 16.2.1993
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF TERMS BILLS HONG KONG COUPON GOVERNMENT BONDS
YIELD TERM ISSUE PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.04 PCT 15 MONTHS 24 05 5.50 102.13 3.77
1 MONTH 3.04 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 5.50 100.60 4.00
3 MONTHS 3.06 PCT 21 MONTHS 2 1 1 1 4.375 100.62 4.29
6 MONTHS 3.18 PCT 21 MONTHS 2502 4.625 100.62 4.47
12 MONTHS 3.58 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 10,47 1 MN
CLOSED 16 FEBRUARY 1993
-----0--------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
STATEMENT ON ELECTIONS TALKS ................................. 1
WORKING GROUP TO INTERVIEW BANKS SHORTLY ..................... 1
$1 MILLION AWARDED TO BOOST HK/UK RESEARCH LINKS ............. 2
SUBVENTION FOR ADULT EDUCATION COURSES ....................... 6
FIRE SERVICES OPENS SECOND RECRUITING CENTRE ................. 6
DEATH SENTENCE ON VIETNAMESE COMMUTED ........................ 7
SALT WATER CUT IN HUNG HOM ................................... 7
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY ........................................ 7
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
8
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
1
STATEMENT ON ELECTIONS TALKS * * * * *
IN RESPONSE TO PRESS ENQUIRIES, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN ISSUED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT:
"WE HAVE SAID FREQUENTLY AND CONSISTENTLY THAT WE WOULD BE HAPPY TO HOLD TALKS WITH THE CHINESE SIDE ON THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE ?99V95 ELECTIONS. WE HAVE SET NO PRECONDITIONS FOR TALKS. THIS REMAINS THE POSITION.
"WE HAVE MADE IT CLEAR THAT WE BELIEVE THE ARRANGEMENTS THF 1994/95 ELECTIONS MUST BE FAIR, OPEN AND ACCEPTABLE TO THE ™ HONG KONG, THAT IS THEY MUST COMMAND THE SUPPORT OF LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND THE CONFIDENCE OF THE COMMUNITY.
FOR
PEOPLE THE
WE HAVE
EXPLAINED OUR POSITION TO
NUMEROUS OCCASIONS AND THESE DIPLOMATIC HOPE THAT THEY WILL LEAD TO TALKS BUT ANNOUNCEMENT TO MAKE."
CONTACTS
THE CHINESE SIDE ARE CONTINUING.
AT THIS STAGE WE
HAVE
ON WE NO
--------0------------
WORKING GROUP TO INTERVIEW BANKS SHORTLY
*****
THE WORKING PARTY SET UP TO EXAMINE THE IMPACT OF NEW SHARE ISSUES ON THE MONETARY AND BANKING SYSTEMS WILL SHORTLY BEGIN A SERIES OF INTERVIEWS WITH AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS AND OTHER MARKET PARTICIPANTS, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"IT HAS PREPARED A DETAILED QUESTIONNAIRE TO FACILITATE DISCUSSIONS WITH SUCH PARTIES. THE AIM OF THE EXERCISE IS TO ESTABLISH THE FACTS, TO IDENTIFY THE RISKS AND HOW AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS ARE MANAGING THESE RISKS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE INTERVIEWS WILL BE CONDUCTED, ON BEHALF OF THE WORKING PARTY BY THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF BANKING, MR ALBERT CHECK.
THE WORKING PARTY, CHAIRED BY THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE (DESIGNATE) OF THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY, MR JOSEPH YAM AND CONSISTS OF OFFICIALS OF THE OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING AND OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND AND A REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE MONETARY AFFAIRS BRANCH, HELD ITS FIRST MEETING LAST SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 13).
-----0------
/2 .........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
2
$1 MILLION AWARDED TO BOOST * * * *
HK/UK RESEARCH LINKS ♦
THE BRITISH COUNCIL AND HONG KONG RESEARCH GRANTS COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) ANNOUNCED THE 16 ACADEMIC RESEARCH PROJECTS AWARDED GRANTS IN THE SECOND YEAR ( 1992/93) OF THE ’’JOINT RESEARCH SCHEME”.
THIS YEAR A TOTAL OF HK$1 MILLION WAS PROVIDED BY BOTH COUNCILS EQUALLY FOR THE 1992/93 SCHEME.
THE SCHEME AIMS TO FACILITATE ACADEMIC INTERCHANGE THROUGH PROVISION OF GRANTS TO ENABLE ACADEMICS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND HONG KONG TO COLLABORATE ON WORTHWHILE RESEARCH PROJECTS.
IT IS MODELLED ON SUCCESSFUL JOINT ACADEMIC RESEARCH SCHEMES WHICH THE BRITISH COUNCIL MANAGES IN MOST WESTERN EUROPEAN COUNTRIES.
THE PROJECTS, WHICH WERE SELECTED ON THE BASIS OF ACADEMIC MERIT, MUTUAL BENEFITS AND LONG-TERM PROSPECTS FOR COLLABORATION, ARE IN DIVERSE RESEARCH FIELDS SUCH AS DRUG ABUSE; PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUGS FROM PLANTS; SPEECH AND HEARING SCIENCE; MONITORING OF COASTLINE POLLUTION IN HONG KONG AND OPTO-ELECTRONICS.
THE GRANTS, UP TO A MAXIMUM OF $70,000 PER PROJECT, COVER TRAVEL BETWEEN HONG KONG AND THE UNITED KINGDOM AND SOME SUBSISTENCE EXPENSES.
THE ’’JOINT RESEARCH SCHEME” AROSE FROM A RECOMMENDATION OF A BRITISH COUNCIL-FUNDED MISSION TO HONG KONG IN LATE 1990 WHICH ADVISED ON MEANS OF DEVELOPING AND STRENGTHENING RELATIONS BETWEEN THE HIGHER EDUCATION SECTORS IN BRITAIN AND HONG KONG.
THE BRITISH COUNCIL AND THE HONG KONG RESEARCH GRANTS COUNCIL AGREED TN JUNE 1991 TO LAUNCH THE SCHEME, INITIALLY AS A PILOT PROJECT, TO ENCOURAGE COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH LINKS BETWEEN BRITAIN AND HONG KONG TO SUPPORT THE CONTINUING ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG.
FOR THE PILOT SCHEME TN 1991/92, HK$500,000 WAS JOINTLY PROVIDED BY THE BRITISH COUNCIL AND THE HONG KONG RESEARCH GRANTS COUNCIL.
EIGHT ACADEMIC RESEARCH PROJECTS WERE FUNDED, SOME HAVE ALREADY BEEN COMPLETED AND OTHERS STILL HAVE ONE OR TWO OUTSTANDING VISITS.
THE PROJECTS WERE ALSO SELECTED FOR THEIR POTENTIAL FOR INCREASED LONG-TERM CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE UK AND HONG KONG.
SPECIFIC EXAMPLES OF SUCCESSES ARE:
/* PERFORMANCE INDICATORS .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
3
* PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FOR HONG KONG HOSPITALS
A PROTOTYPE SYSTEM FOR HONG KONG HOSPITALS HAS BEEN DEVELOPED AND BEING PILOTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH;
» DEVELOPMENT OF EXPERT SYSTEM INTERFACES
THE PROJECT HAS BEEN VERY SUCCESSFUL IN PROMOTING AN INTEGRATED PATTERN OF RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT BETWEEN THE TWO INSTITUTIONS INVOLVED, ALLOWING FOR SEMINARS TO TAKE PLACE BOTH HERE AND IN THE UK AND THE TWO TEAMS TO DEVELOP THE SYSTEMS, DERIVE PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS, WORK ON JOINT PUBLICATIONS AND DEVELOP OTHER WORTHWHILE PROJECTS;
* LABOUR MARKET STRUCTURATION AND THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SKILLED WORK
THIS PROJECT HAS RESULTED IN EXCHANGE AND DEVELOPMENT OF FURTHER PROJECTS BETWEEN CHINA, HONG KONG AND THE UNITED KINGDOM IN SUCH AREAS AS FACTORS INFLUENCING INDIVIDUALS ENTRY INTO AND CHANGE OF WORK AND A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE POSITION OF WOMEN IN THE WORK ENVIRONMENT. LINKED DOCTORAL DEGREES AND INCREASED STAFF EXCHANGE BETWEEN THE TWO INSTITUTIONS HAVE ALSO BEEN DEVELOPED.
AS IN 1991/92, APPLICATIONS WERE INVITED FROM TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN HONG KONG AND THE UNITED KINGDOM AND WERE VETTED BY TWO SELECTION COMMITTEES, ONE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND ONE IN HONG KONG.
THE UNITED KINGDOM SELECT ION COMMITTEE COMPRISED PROFESSOR DEN DAVIES OF LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY AND PROFESSOR RAY COWELL OF THE NOTTINGHAM ON TRENT UNIVERSITY.
THE HONG KONG SELECTION COMMITTEE COMPRISED PROFESSOR M ANSON OF HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC AND DR EDGAR CHENG, A PROMINENT LOCAL BUSINESSMAN.
BOTH PROFESSOR ANSON AND DR CHENG WERE MEMBERS OF THE HONG KONG RESEARCH GRANTS COUNCIL AT THE TIME, ALTHOUGH DR CHENG HAS SINCE STEPPED DOWN.
FOLLOWING A REVIEW OF THE SCHEME BY THE BRITISH COUNCIL AND THE HONG KONG RESEARCH GRANTS COUNCIL, IT HAS BERN AGREED TO CONTINUE AND EXPAND IT FURTHER IN 1993/94.
/ACADEMIC RESEARCH ........
U -WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
Academic research project© awarded grants in 1992/93 under the‘*Joint Research Scheme”
Number JRSW/ 0 7 • 13 18 81 n 34 41 30 81 52 94 53 57 98 hpfetoTBe Ixtoadlaf the Scope of the Software D*v>*topfttorrt Fro**** to Improve Software Quality The SftVPtUfe of Uto Supply Sytoem of Drug Abate la Hoag Kong Numeric^ MoUHwi of Iteetiomartodc Stirring Development cd an Enzyme-Inked lmmurto»Cfben( A*a*y(8U8A) A Molecular ^ptoaeh to Tvberoutoala: Otogaoefo, Fptoemtotogy *M Drvg ItoWmnoe Computer Sbnultoton of FrooeiUftp for Optoetoetonlc Devfoee Antfo*n*pVartt Activity of Xytot* Sep Cotte toed Iwn landMWtoa AnelyMe of Compoate Steel and Concrete Frame* with BemPdgld Joint* Ccoae-language QuaaWmM Study Cleft Fatote Speech A Traftagenlc Mouee Model to Study the Phenotypic Coneequenoea of Mutetfon* In the Type X (ton) Collagen Oene Study of T/aneodptton Fatooce Involved In Uammalan Hlndbrata Segmentation Ualng Maritime Itebea* to Monitor Mong Kong CoetoHne PoftvtiOft Cloning of RCC1 and Ren Homologue* In Fuco* Sermhxa Aggregation of OABA Receptor* Expiated In Cl Muncie Cel* by Agrin Trtontof Neural Nefworici Query Control of Plant Drug*: CheMeaJ and A*oo*amom Project Coordinator DovfdW Butterd Compvfng tolenoo U of Ulster TWLo Appled Sodel Studies CPHK SeenMctoto Mathemtfct U cfSvWtKJhde John H K Yeung Pharma oology CUHK DovWCMy Infection U Of Bfrmmo'. -nt IHWYooe Ftottrpnte engineering OUHK J Zhang Ho logy Hong Bapttet College 0 A Netheroot CMt Engineering UdfNodngltom WJHvdoeatto Ungutotta Bdeooe U of Reading KtFCheeh Wochemlatry HKU MH Sham Btoohomleby HKU IJHodgW** Botany / Science HXU Yung M Wong Otology hwjst KartWTafm Stotogy Hicurr XYMWong Fhyalca HKurr ChunAaoCfto CMml«|ry MKU0T — Main Farther OraHam T«W M La* Information Syatorrto GPHK PMIp5e<n BodW Scieneee Loughborough U Jbn Cefdwal Maihematioa CPHK • KFarW Phamxcology 8Th*rap UverpoolU Augutdrto F Chang Microbiology CUHK RPWabb Engineering U Surrey W J Oaviee Inv and 8toi Science U of Lan canter 8 I Chen CM1 & Structural Engineering HKP TWNtoWI Speech A Heer*ng Science -HKU R P Scot Handfixf Btoohemlitry & Molecular Btotogy U Of Manchester R Krumlauf Development Neurpbloto NattoneJ Into tor Mad Rei Maric Seaward Environ mental Science Uof Bradford JoMph T YWong Marine Btofogy Marine Btotogy Aaaoa F Anne Stephen*©* Fhamaoeubcal Chern U efLondo* 0 Sherrington Theoretical Fhyafta UofOeford FtoMn Chan Pharmacy Liverpool John Moon** U
/ACADEMIC RESEARCH
Academic research projects funded under the pilot scheme for the "Joint Research Scheme"
Number Department - HKG Project Tlfte Start Date End Date Project Coordnatcr Main Partner
JRS91/02 Geography and Geology, HKU Quantification of MJcrcfebrie of Offshore Soils of HK Dec 91 Nov 92 Dr NKToMey UEA DrWWS Yim HKU
JRS91/13 Economics, CUHK The Intemattenat Role of HK and 1997: the Political and Economic Links of HK wfch UK, USA, Japan, Tehran and Singapore Jan 92 Oac92 Brian Heck U of Leeds Yun Wing Sung CUHK
JRS91/18 Physk^ HKUST Novel Oxfate and Organic Materials for Thin Him Devices Feb 92 Dec 92 Dr David Barber HKUST Dr JackSfref U of Essex
JRS91/26 Management, HKP Developing Imfeator of Performance for tte Hcsptads of HK J mi 92 Dec 92 Dr Peter Yuen HKP Dr Michael Hartey U of Birmingham
JRS91/29 M amrfacturing Engineering, HKP The Surface Integrity of Machined Ceramics Jan 92 Doc 92 DrTCLeo HKP Dr J Huddtesten Nottingham Poly
JRSS1/34 Computer Science, CPHK Development of Expert System interface Jan 92 Dec 92 Dr Barbara Goraysks CPHK Mr John L Nesteon Oxford Poly
JASS1/4S Sociology, HKBC Labour Market StructuraSon and the SSgnifieanco of SHfod Work: A Comparative AnaJyds of ConcStions In China, HK and UK. Jan 92 Dee 92 Dr Brian Ranson HKBC Dr Theo Ntchola U of Bristol
JRS21/50 Btotogy, HKBC The Decontamination of MoteLpoBtrtod Effluents and Wastewaters using fw Hydrophytes Typha Lattfolla and Phragmites Australis Jan 92 Dec 92 Prof M H Wong HKBC Dr A JM Baker U of Sheffield
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
6
SUBVENTION FOR ADULT EDUCATION COURSES
*****
VOLUNTARY AGENCIES ARE INVITED TO APPLY FOR GOVERNMENT SUBVENTION TO RUN ADULT EDUCATION COURSES FOR THE 1993/94 SCHOOL YEAR.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THE COURSES WOULD SUPPLEMENT THE GOVERNMENT’S ACTIVITIES IN THIS FIELD.
AREAS ELIGIBLE FOR SUBVENTION INCLUDE PREVOCATIONAL TRAINING, EDUCATION ON LABOUR, PRE-RETIREMENT AND RETIREMENT TRAINING, JOB-ORIENTED COURSES, SPECIAL EDUCATION FOR PHYSICALLY OR MENTALLY HANDICAPPED ADULTS, AND GENERAL EDUCATION FOR PARTICULAR GROUPS SUCH AS FACTORY WORKERS.
THE SUBVENTION WILL COVER MAINLY COST OF STAFFING, BASIC TEACHING AND OFFICE EQUIPMENT, UTILITIES CHARGES AND RENT.
APPLICATION FORMS, OBTAINABLE AT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S ADULT EDUCATION SECTION, WU CHUNG HOUSE, 11TH FLOOR, 213 QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI, SHOULD BE RETURNED BY APRIL 30.
APPLICANTS WILL BE INFORMED OF THF RESULT IN JULY.
FURTHER INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE ADULT EDUCATION SECTION ON TEL 892 6671 OR 892 6674.
-----0------
FIRE SERVICES OPENS SECOND RECRUITING CENTRE
* * ♦ ♦ ♦
THE SECOND FIRE SERVICES RECRUITING CENTRE WILL BE OPENED TOMORROW (THURSDAY) FROM 2 PM TO 6 PM TO HELP PEOPLE WISHING TO JOIN FIRE AND AMBULANCE SERVICES.
OCCUPYING AN AREA OF 110 SQUARE METRES, THE NEW CENTRE IS LOCATED AT THE MEZZANINE FLOOR OF MIDDLE ROAD MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING IN TSIM SHA TSUI.
THE OPENING HOURS OF THE CENTRE ARE: 10 AM TO 6 PM FROM MONDAY TO SATURDAY, 9 AM TO 5 PM ON SUNDAY AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
IT WILL BE CLOSED ON NEW YEAR DAY, LUNAR NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS, MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL AND CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS.
APPLICANTS CAN ALSO CALL AT ANOTHER RECRUITING CENTRE ON THE FIRST FLOOR OF FIRE SERVICES HEADQUARTERS BUILDING, 1 HONG CHONG ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI EAST.
--------0-----------
/7 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
7
DEATH SENTENCE ON VIETNAMESE COMMUTED
*****
THE GOVERNOR, AFTER TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION THE ADVICE OF
THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, HAS DECIDED THAT THE DEATH SENTENCE PASSED ON
NGUYEN VAN-HIEP, A VIETNAMESE MAN, ON MARCH 14, 1990 SHOULD BE
COMMUTED TO A SENTENCE OF 30 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT.
NGUYEN VAN-HIEP WAS FOUND GUILTY OF THE MURDER OF TRAN
TRONG-KHANG, ALSO A VIETNAMESE MAN.
------0-------
SALT WATER CUT IN HUNG HOM
* * * * *
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO ALL PREMISES IN HUNG HOM WILL BE CUT OFF FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 19) TO 10 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE CONNECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
--------0-----------
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY * * *
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY 17) UP TO 4.30 PM
1. WRITING FINAL REPORT.
2. STUDYING POLICE INCIDENT REPORT ON INCI DENT AT THE COLISEUM ON FEBRUARY 13, 1993.
3. CORRESPONDENCE.
0----------
/8 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
8
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ♦ » ♦ ♦ *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE FN THE ACCOUNT 2,150
REVERSAL OF LAF NIL
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,150
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY +2,800
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 4,950
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 114.4 *-0.4» 17.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS
TERMS YIELD TERM
1 WEEK 3.05 PCT 15 MONTHS
1 MONTH 3.04 PCT 18 MONTHS
3 MONTHS 3.04 PCT 21 MONTHS
6 MONTHS 3.16 PCT 24 MONTHS
12 MONTHS 3.56 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
2405 5.50 102.18 3.73
2408 5.50 100.76 3.89
241 1 4.375 100.80 4 . 18
2502 4.625 100.81 4.37
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS
CLOSED 17 FEBRUARY 1993
- 16,313 MN
--------0-----------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUPPLEMENT
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL:
GOVT'S ECONOMIC POLICY IS CONSISTENT: FS ...................... 1
LINKED EXCHANGE RATE SYSTEM STAYS ON .......................... 1
GOVT SUPPORTS OBJECTIVES OF EARTH SUMMIT ...................... 2
MORE PUBLIC HOUSING FLATS FOR ALLOCATION ...................... 2
'RENT OR BUY’ HOUSING SCHEME UNDER REGULAR REVIEW ............ 3
CRITERION FOR RELIEF OF OVERCROWDING EXPLAINED ................ 3
GOVT ALL OUT TO CURB DRUG PROBLEM AMONG YOUTH ................. 4
<
TV PROGRAMMES GOVERNED BY CODES ............................... 5
BAGGAGE CHECK-IN MEASURE AIMS TO EASE AIRPORT CONGESTION .. 6
EFFORTS MADE TO COMBAT CAR THEFT .............................. 7
SCHOOLS ADVISED TO BALANCE PUPILS' HOMEWORK AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT ................................................... 8
PROCEDURES TO ASSESS TEXTBOOKS UNDER REGULAR REVIEW .......... 9
STEPS IN PLACE TO ENSURE GUESTHOUSE SAFETY .................. 10
STEPS TAKEN TO PREVENT POWER STATION EXPLOSION .............. 11
/PENALTY FOR .......
PENALTY FOR ORAL SEX CRIME ADEQUATE .......................... 12
GOVT VALUES VIEWS IN LEGCO DEBATES ........................... 13
CONTROLLED USE OF PYROTECHNICS IN THE PIPELINE ............... 13
REDEVELOPMENTS OF CO-OPERATIVE HOUSING SCHEME ................ 14
TIMBER INDUSTRY UNDER SURVEY ................................. 15
AIRPORT TAX COLLECTION SYSTEM WORKS WELL ..................... 15
RAILWAY CORPORATIONS CLOSELY MONITORED ....................... 16
SPEECH BY SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR T H CHAU, IN MOTION DEBATE ON FAIR TRADE POLICY ...................... 18
LEGCO CONSIDERS BILL ON FILING OF COMPANY RETURN ............. 20
LEGCO DISCUSSES FAIR TRADE POLICY ............................ 22
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
1
GOVT’S ECONOMIC POLICY * * * *
IS CONSISTENT: FS * *
THE GOVERNMENT’S BROAD ECONOMIC POLICY IS REMARKABLY CONSISTENT, THOUGH NO DOUBT THE PRECISE FORMULATION HAS VARIED OVER THE YEARS, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON HAMISH MACLEOD, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON NGAI SHIU-KIT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR MACLEOD STRESSED THAT HONG KONG’S ECONOMIC PHILOSOPHY "IS A COMMITMENT TO ENTERPRISE, A COMMITMENT TO LOW TAXATION AND A COMMITMENT TO FREE MARKETS AND FREE TRADE."
MORE RECENTLY, THE GOVERNOR IN HIS OCTOBER POLICY SPEECH REFERRED TO THE PRINCIPLE OF "MINIMUM INTERFERENCE AND MAXIMUM SUPPORT".
HE SAID HIS COMMENTS ABOUT THE PHRASE "POSITIVE NON-INTERVENTIONISM" WERE INTENDED TO DISCOURAGE ITS USE IN DISCUSSIONS OF ECONOMIC OR INDUSTRIAL POLICY BECAUSE IT WAS SO WIDELY MISUSED.
"SINCE IT HAS CONTINUED TO BE SO MISUSED, IT SEEMED - AND STILL SEEMS - TO ME THAT IT WOULD BE BETTER NOT TO USE IT," HE SAID.
HE ADDED THAT THE POLICY WAS IN FACT FAR FROM "DOING NOTHING".
-----0------
LINKED EXCHANGE RATE SYSTEM STAYS ON ♦ * * ♦ ♦
THE GOVERNMENT HAS NO INTENTION OF CHANGING THE PRESENT POLICY OF LINKED EXCHANGE RATE SYSTEM.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON HAMISH MACLEOD, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON PHILIP WONG YU-HONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR MACLEOD SAID EXCHANGE RATE STABILITY WAS A CRUCIAL ELEMENT FOR THE STABILITY AND PROSPERITY OF HONG KONG.
"THE MAINTENANCE OF THE PRESENT LINKED EXCHANGE RATE SYSTEM IS THEREFORE FIRM GOVERNMENT POLICY," HE SAID.
--------0
/2 .........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
2
GOVT SUPPORTS OBJECTIVES OF EARTH SUMMIT
*****
THE ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES OF THE EARTH SUMMIT ARE WORTHY OF SUPPORT AND THE GOVERNMENT INTENDS TO DO ITS BEST TO FULFIL THEM.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT, AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON DAVID LI IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID THE SECOND REVIEW OF THE 1989 WHITE PAPER ON THE ENVIRONMENT, WHICH WAS DUE TO BE PUBLISHED LATER THIS YEAR, WOULD PROVIDE ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO DEMONSTRATE ITS COMMITMENT TO THE CONVENTIONS.
"WE ARE NOW ASSESSING THE OVERALL IMPLICATIONS," MR EASON SAID, ADDING THAT IT WAS NECESSARY TO CONSULT WIDELY WITHIN THE ADMINISTRATION ON HOW A MORE COMPREHENSIVE YET INTEGRATED APPROACH TO ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION COULD BE ACHIEVED.
IN THE MEANTIME, MR EASON SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO ACTIVELY CONSIDER THE ESTABLISHMENT OF MARINE PARKS AND MARINE RESERVES AND, THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL PROFILE FOR THE TERRITORY IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE WORLD WIDE FUND FOR THE NATURE (HK).
-------------------0-------- MORE PUBLIC HOUSING FLATS FOR ALLOCATION *****
THE HOUSING AUTHORITY HAS TAKFN MEASURES TO ENSURE THAT MORE FLATS CAN BE LET OUT TO WATTING LIST APPLICANTS, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ZACHARY WONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR EASON SAID THESE MEASURES INCLUDED RELEASING FLATS RESERVED FOR COMMITTED CATEGORIES TO THESE APPLICANTS; EXPEDITING THE REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME BY APPOINTING REGIONAL CONSULTANTS AND REDEPLOYING INTERNAL MAINTENANCE RESOURCES; AND STREAMLINING PROCEDURES FOR THE HAND-OVER OF NEWLY COMPLETED FLATS FROM CONTRACTORS.
MR EASON SAID AS A RESULT, THE NUMBER OF VACANT FLATS HAD BEEN REDUCED BY 53 PER CENT IN THE PAST TWO YEARS.
AS AT DECEMBER 31, 1992, THERE WERE 16,900 VACANT FLATS IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES WITH A MAJORITY OF THEM NOT BEING READY FOR IMMEDIATE ALLOCATION.
"SOME 36 PER CENT OF THEM WERE RESERVED TO MEET PLANNED REDEVELOPMENT, CLEARANCE AND MAJOR REPAIRS PROGRAMME REQUIREMENTS AND 47 PER CENT WERE UNDER REFURBISHMENT.
"THE REMAINDER (17 PER CENT) WERE EITHER NOT TAKEN OVER BY THE ESTATE MANAGEMENT OR WERE ALREADY BEING OFFERED TO ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS," HE ADDED.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
3
’RENT OR BUY’ HOUSING SCHEME UNDER REGULAR REVIEW ♦ ♦ * * *
THE BASIS OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY’S ’RENT OR BUY’ SCHEME WILL BE REVIEWED REGULARLY AND THERE IS NO INTENTION TO SET FLAT PRICES IN ACCORDANCE WITH A REPLACEMENT COST PRICING FORMULA AT PRESENT.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON GILBERT LEUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID THE ATM OF THE SCHEME WAS TO GIVE THOSE WHOSE TURN FOR REHOUSING WAS DUE THE OPTION OF EITHER RENTING A FLAT OR BUYING A HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME FLAT IN THE SAME DISTRICT.
HE SAID FLATS NOT TAKEN UP WOULD BE OFFERED TO APPLICANTS DRAWN BY BALLOT FOR HOS OR PRIVATE SECTOR PART ICI PATION SCHEME FLATS ON SALE AT THE TIME AND PRICES WERE SET AT A LEVEL SIMILAR TO CURRENT HOS/PSPS PRICES.
THE SCHEME, LAUNCHED ON JANUARY 2, 1993, INVOLVED TWO BLOCKS: ONE IN TIN SHU1 WAI AND THE OTHER IN TSEUNG KWAN 0, WITH A TOTAL OF 1,216 FLATS AVAILABLE FOR SALE.
THE RESPONSE EXCEEDED THE HOUSING AUTHORITY’S EXPECTATTONS AND PRESENT INDICATIONS WERE THAI' MOST OF THE 608 FLATS IN TIN SHUT WAI AND 40 IN TSEUNG KWAN O WOULD BE SOLD, HE SAID.
(’RI TER ION FOR RELIEF OF OVERCROWDING EXPLAINED ♦ * ♦ ♦ ♦
THE CURRENT CRITERION FOR THE RELIEF OF OVERCROWDING IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES IS THE SAME AS THE HOUSING AUTHORITY’S MINIMUM ALLOCATION STANDARD FOR NEW TENANTS, WHICH IS 5.5 SQUARE METRES PER PERSON.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON CONRAD LAM TN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID PUBLIC HOUSING TENANTS LIVING IN UNITS PROVIDING LESS THAN 5.5 SQUARE METRES PER PERSON MIGHT APPLY TO TRANSFER TO LARGER UNITS.
HOWEVER, HE SAID A TIGHTER CRITERION OF 1.5 SQUARE METRES PER PERSON WAS USED FOR TENANTS WISHING TO TRANSFER TO NEW FLATS IN THE URBAN AND SUB-URBAN AREAS.
’’THIS IS BECAUSE THE SUPPLY OF NEW FLATS IN THESE AREAS IS
TIGHT DUE TO REDEVELOPMENT AND CLEARANCE COMMITMENTS," HE ADDED.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993 4
GOVT ALL OUT TO CURB DRUG PROBLEM AMONG YOUTH
» » » * »
THE GOVERNMENT RECOGNISES THAT YOUNG PEOPLE ARE A GROUP IN DRUG PROBLEMS, AND THEY ARE THE MAIN TARGET OF THE EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY PROGRAMMES.
HIGH-RISK ANTI-DRUG
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHEUNG MAN-KWONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
A MAJOR ELEMENT OF THESE PROGRAMMES IS THE DRUG EDUCATION SCHOOL TALKS CONDUCTED BY THE NARCOTICS DIVISION IN ALL SECONDARY SCHOOLS, BOYS AND GIRLS HOMES AND YOUTH ORGANISATIONS.
THE TALKS PROVIDE INFORMATION ON THE HARMFUL EFFECTS OF DRUG ABUSE AND THE LEGAL CONSEQUENCES AND DANGERS OF INVOLVEMENT IN DRUG OFFENCES, MR ASPREY SAID.
THE SECRETARY SAID IT WAS PLANNED TO EXTEND THESE SCHOOL TALKS TO ALL PRIMARY 6 STUDENTS IN SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR.
THE GOVERNMENT ALSO AIMS TO DISSEMINATE THE ANTI-DRUG MESSAGE TO THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE AND TO PARENTS IN PARTICULAR.
THE WAYS INCLUDED:
* A PILOT SCHEME TO INTRODUCE DRUG EDUCATION TALKS TO PARENTS;
* WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS FOR STUDENT TEACHERS AND SOCIAL WORKERS;
♦ ANTI-DRUG ACTIVITIES JOINTLY ORGANISED BY DISTRICT BOARDS AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES;
» AN ANNUAL "DRUG WISE CAMP" ORGANISED BY THE POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS BUREAU, THE SOCIETY FOR THE AID AND REHABILITATION OF DRUG ABUSERS.
APART FROM PREVENTIVE EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY, LAW ENFORCEMENT IS ESSENTIAL TO DETER YOUNG PEOPLE FROM DRUG ABUSE AND TRAFFICKING, MR ASPREY SAID.
THE POLICE AND CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT TAKE VIGOROUS ACTION TO COUNTER DRUG TRAFFICKING BOTH AT THE REGIONAL AND DISTRICT LEVEL, AND HAVE ACHIEVED POSITIVE RESULTS IN APPREHENDING AND PROSECUTING MORE DRUG OFFENDERS, HE SAID.
"WE HOPE THAT THE INCREASE IN THE MAXIMUM PENALTIES FOR THE OFFENCE OF POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUG, INTRODUCED LAST JUNE, WILL HAVE A DETERRENT EFFECT ON YOUNG PEOPLE," MR ASPREY SAID.
HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT ALSO ENCOURAGED THOSE YOUNG PEOPLE WHO UNFORTUNATELY BECAME VICTIMS OF HEROIN TO PARTICIPATE TN THE VOLUNTARY DRUG TREATMENT PROGRAMMES, LIKE THE METHADONE TREATMENT PROGRAMME OR THE IN-PATIENT TREATMENT PROGRAMME OPERATED BY THE SOCIETY FOR THE AID AND REHABILITATION OF DRUG ABUSERS.
/HE SAID .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
5
HE SAID THE NUMBER OF PERSONS AGED UNDER 21 WHO WERE PROSECUTED FOR HEROIN OFFENCES INCREASED FROM 285 IN 1990 TO 332 IN 1991 AND TO 303 IN THE FIRST NINE MONTHS LAST YEAR.
THE PROPORTION OF THESE OFFENDERS
PROSECUTED FOR MINOR
OFFENCES, WHICH INCLUDE SIMPLE POSSESSION OR THE DRUG, HAD INCREASED FROM 40.4% IN 1990 TO 79.2% IN THE FIRST NINE MONTHS LAST YEAR.
SMOKING/CONSUMPTION TO 61.7% IN 1991
DRUG
OF
AND
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE INCREASE IN THE PROPORTION PROSECUTIONS FOR MINOR DRUG OFFENCES WAS IN PART, A RESULT OF REPEAL IN SEPTEMBER 1991, OF PRESUMPTIONS CONCERNING POSSESSION DANGEROUS DRUGS FOR TRAFFICKING, IN THE DANGEROUS DRUG ORDINANCE.
OF THE
OF
HE SAID THE MAJORITY OF THOSE CONVICTED WERE SENTENCED TO A PERIOD OF DETENTION IN A DRUG ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRE OR TO PROBATION.
THE PROPORTION SENTENCED INCREASED FROM 46.6% IN 1990 TO 55.2% IN 1991 AND TO 69.4% IN THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF 1992.
THIS IS CONSISTENT WITH THE INCREASE IN THE PROPORTION CONVICTED OF MINOR DRUG OFFENCES OVER THE SAME PERIOD, HE ADDED.
--------0------------
TV PROGRAMMES GOVERNED BY CODES
THERE ARE SPECIFIC PROVISIONS IN THE TELEVISION CODES OF PRACTICE GOVERNING THE TIMING, FORM AND NATURE UNDER WHICH MATTERS ABOUT FORTUNE-TELLING, SUPERNATURALISM, SPIRITUALISM, EVIL SPIRITS AND WEIRD PHENOMENA MAY BE COVERED ON TV PROGRAMMES, THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, SAID.
THE AIM IS TO PROTECT CHILDREN FROM ANXIETY OR FEAR CAUSED BY SUCH SUBJECTS, HE ADDED.
"FOR EXAMPLE, NO SUCH SUBJECTS ARE ALLOWED TO BE COVERED IN PROGRAMMES BROADCAST DURING FAMILY VIEWING HOURS AND ADVERTISEMENTS ON FORTUNE-TELLERS AND THE LIKE ARE PROHIBITED,” MR SO SAID IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON LEE WING-TAT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"IN ADDITION, THERE ARE PROVISIONS IN THE CODES OF PRACTICE RESTRICTING MATERIAL LIKELY TO MISLEAD, ALARM, FRIGHTEN OR BE INJURIOUS TO COMMUNITY WELL-BEING, WITH PARTICULAR RESTRICTIONS ON MATERIAL LIKELY TO UPSET CHILDREN.
"ANY TV STATION FOUND TO HAVE BREACHED THESE CODES IS LIABLE TO SANCTIONS BY THE BROADCASTING AUTHORITY.”
THE GOVERNMENT’S ATTENTION HAS BEEN DRAWN TO THE UNDESIRABLE PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECT WHICH INAPPROPRIATE COVERAGE OF SUCH MATTERS MAY HAVE ON THE PUBLIC, PARTICULARLY ON CHILDREN, BY COMPLAINTS MADE TO THE BROADCASTING AUTHORITY.
/HOWEVER, MR ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
6
HOWEVER, MR SO TOLD COUNCILLORS THAT IT DID NOT INTEND TO TAKE ADDITIONAL MEASURES, APART FROM THOSE COVERED IN THE TELEVISION CODES OF PRACTICE, TO ADVISE THE PUBLIC FURTHER ON THE MATTERS RAISED.
AS REGARDS THE PRINTED MEDIA, MR SO POINTED OUT THAT THEY ENJOYED FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND HAD EDITORIAL FREEDOM TO GIVE TREATMENT TO ANY SUBJECT IN A WAY THEY CONSIDERED APPROPRIATE, HAVING REGARD TO THE LAWS OF HONG KONG ON SUCH MATTERS AS OFFICIAL SECRETS, LIBEL, SECURITY AND EMERGENCY, CONTEMPT OF COURT AND INDECENCY.
"I HOPE THAT ANY PUBLICITY GIVEN TO THIS QUESTION AND MY ANSWER TO IT WILL SERVE TO REMIND THOSE IN THE MEDIA TO ACT RESPONSIBLY AND HAVE REGARD TO PUBLIC SENSITIVITY AND FEELINGS.
"HOPEFULLY, THIS WILL ALSO SERVE TO REMIND PARENTS AND TEACHERS OF THEIR OWN PARTICULAR RESPONSIBILITIES IN EDUCATING CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE TO ADOPT THE RIGHT ATTITUDE IN DEALING WITH SUCH MATTERS,” MR SO ADDED.
----0------
BAGGAGE CHECK-IN MEASURE AIMS TO EASE AIRPORT CONGESTION
*«*♦*»
BAGGAGE NOT READILY IDENTIFIABLE AS PERSONAL EFFECTS IS PROHIBITED FROM BEING CHECKED IN AS PASSENGER BAGGAGE AT THE AIRPORT TERMINAL BECAUSE OF THE RECENT GROWTH IN THE NUMBER OF PASSENGERS ATTEMPTING TO CHECK IN COMMERCIAL GOODS AS PERSONAL BAGGAGE.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MRS ANSON CHAN, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HOWARD YOUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SHE SAID IN ONE CASE, A PASSENGER ATTEMPTED TO CHECK IN NO LESS THAN 75 ITEMS.
APART FROM CAUSING DELAY AND INCONVENIENCE TO OTHER DEPARTING PASSENGERS, COMMERCIAL GOODS ARE OFTEN PACKED IN CONTAINERS WHICH ARE TOO LARGE TO PASS THROUGH X-RAY SCREENING EQUIPMENT, SHE SAID.
"AS A RESULT TIME-CONSUMING HAND SEARCHES ARE NECESSARY," SHE ADDED.
UNLOADING OF CONSIGNMENTS FROM TRUCKS HAD ALSO CAUSED TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT THE DEPARTURE LEVEL KERBSIDE, SHE SAID.
UNDER THE ORDER MADE BY THE AIRPORT GENERAL MANAGER UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE HONG KONG AIRPORT (REGULATIONS) ORDINANCE IN 1989, ONLY PASSENGER BAGGAGE CONTAINING PERSONAL EFFECTS MAY BE CHECKED IN AT THE PASSENGER TERMINAL.
CONSIGNMENTS READILY IDENTIFIABLE AS COMMERCIAL GOODS, INCLUDING COURIER CONSIGNMENTS, MUST BE HANDLED THROUGH THE CARGO TERMINAL.
/THE ORDER .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
7
THE ORDER AIMS TO ALLEVIATE THE CONGESTION WITHIN THE AIRPORT PASSENGER TERMINAL BUILDING AND THE OVERLOADING OF THE BAGGAGE HANDLING SYSTEM, MRS CHAN SAID.
ACCORDING TO THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF AIR TRANSPORT, BAGGAGE MEANS SUCH ARTICLES, EFFECTS AND OTHER PERSONAL PROPERTY OF A PASSENGER AS ARE NECESSARY OR APPROPRIATE FOR WEAR, USE, COMFORT OR CONVENIENCE IN CONNECTION WITH HIS TRIP.
"THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A FAIRLY NARROW DEFINITION AND THE ULTIMATE DECISION AS TO WHETHER AN ITEM PRESENTED FOR CHECK-IN SHOULD BE ACCEPTED AS BAGGAGE RESTS WITH THE AIRLINE," MRS CHAN SAID.
GENERALLY SPEAKING PASSENGERS ARE GIVEN THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT, AND ONLY ITEMS THAT ARE READILY IDENTIFIABLE AS COMMERCIAL CONSIGNMENTS ARE LIKELY TO BE REFERRED TO THE CARGO TERMINAL, SHE ADDED.
------0-------
EFFORTS MADE TO COMBAT CAR THEFT * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT IS PLANNING TO BRING FORWARD LEGISLATION TO IMPOSE HIGHER MAXIMUM PENALTIES FOR SMUGGLING GENERALLY, AND MORE EFFECTIVE CONTROL ON CERTAIN TYPES OF BOATS WHICH ARE COMMONLY USED IN THE SMUGGLING OF VEHICLES.
THESE ARE IN ADDITION TO INTRODUCING HEAVIER PENALTIES FOR VEHICLE THEFT.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHIM PUI-CHUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR ASPREY SAID THE POLICE AND OTHER LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES WERE CONTINUING THEIR EFFORTS TO TACKLE THE RELATED PROBLEMS OF VEHICLE THEFT AND SMUGGLING.
HE ALSO SAID OPERATIONAL TACTICS WERE REGULARLY REVIEWED TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF THE INCREASING SOPHISTICATION OF VEHICLE THEFT AND SMUGGLING SYNDICATES, AND VERY CONSIDERABLE RESOURCES WERE DEVOTED TO THIS TASK.
MR ASPREY ADDED THAT THE POLICE, APART FROM PUBLICISING THE IMPORTANCE OF SECURITY TO VEHICLE OWNERS, CAR PARK OPERATORS AND THE SECURITY STAFF OF PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS, HAD ALSO HELD MEETINGS WITH AN AD-HOC GROUP FOR THE REDUCTION OF THE INCIDENCE OF VEHICLE CRIME ON A QUARTERLY BASIS SINCE 1990.
"THE GROUP IS A USEFUL FORUM FOR THE EXCHANGE AND DEVELOPMENT OF IDEAS AND WE BELIEVE IT SHOULD CONTINUE," HE SAID.
/IT COMPRISES .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
8
IT COMPRISES REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE GENERAL INSURANCE COUNCIL, THE ACCIDENT INSURERS ASSOCIATION, THE MOTOR TRADERS ASSOCIATION, THE FINANCE HOUSE ASSOCIATION AND CAR PARK OPERATORS. IT ALSO COMPRISES OFFICIALS FROM TRANSPORT, CUSTOMS AND EXCISE AND TRADE DEPARTMENTS.
MR ASPREY SAID THE POLICE WOULD CONSIDER ADDING TO THIS GROUP OTHER RELEVANT BODIES AS NECESSARY.
HE SAID IT WAS NOT NECESSARY TO ESTABLISH A SPECIAL JOINT COMMITTEE ON SIMILAR JOBS.
"WE BELIEVE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NEW COMMITTEE WOULD BE A DUPLICATION, AND IS NOT NECESSARY," HE SAID.
MR ASPREY SAID THERE WAS CLOSE AND REGULAR LIAISON WITH THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES ON THE SMUGGLING OF STOLEN VEHICLES FROM HONG KONG INTO CHINA.
"THIS PROBLEM IS HIGH ON THE AGENDA OF EVERY DISCUSSION WHICH WE HAVE WITH THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES ON LAW ENFORCEMENT MATTER, AT BOTH THE POLITICAL AND OPERATIONAL LEVELS,” HE SAID.
MR ASPREY ALSO BELIEVED THAT THE CHINESE POLICE LIAISON OFFICERS WHO HAD RECENTLY ARRIVED IN HONG KONG WOULD STRENGTHEN THE LIAISON WITH THE MAINLAND LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES.
HE SAID THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE HAD PERSONALLY RAISED THE MATTER ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WITH THE CHINESE LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES.
HE HAS ALSO RECENTLY WRITTEN TO THE HEADS OF THE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES OF NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES AND TO THE INTERPOL SECRETARIAT TO REQUEST THEIR ASSISTANCE IN TACKLING THE PROBLEM OF VEHICLE THEFT IN HONG KONG.
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SCHOOLS ADVISED TO BALANCE PUPILS’ HOMEWORK AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
* * * * *
SCHOOLS RATHER THAN THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR DECIDING ON THE VOLUME OF HOMEWORK OR THE FREQUENCY OF TESTS AND EXAMINATIONS FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT VARIOUS FACTORS, PARENTAL WISHES AND OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS.
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HOWEVER ISSUES ANNUAL GUIDELINES TO HELP SCHOOLS DETERMINE THE TYPE, FREQUENCY AND AMOUNT OF HOMEWORK AT ALL LEVELS.
"SCHOOLS ARE ADVISED TO BALANCE THE DEMANDS OF THE CURRICULUM WITH THE PUPILS’ ABILITIES, THEIR HOME ENVIRONMENT AND THE NEED FOR PLAY TIME," THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, SAID IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ERIC LI KA-CHEUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
/"THEY ARE .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
9
"THEY ARE SPECIFICALLY ASKED TO ALLOW AMPLE TIME FOR SOCIAL EVENTS, EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND REST, WHICH ARE ESSENTIAL TO THE PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT OF YOUNG PEOPLE.”
GIVEN THAT, MR CHAN SAID THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAD NO PLANS TO CONDUCT REGULAR SURVEYS AMONG PARENTS TO FIND OUT THE AVERAGE TIME SPENT BY PUPILS DOING HOMEWORK OR PREPARING FOR EXAMINATIONS.
OFFICERS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, THROUGH REGULAR VISITS TO SCHOOLS, MONITOR THE SITUATION REGARDING HOMEWORK, TESTS AND EXAMINATIONS TO ENSURE THAT THERE ARE NO EXCESSES, HE ADDED.
ON QUESTIONS WHETHER PARENTS WOULD BE CONSULTED ON THE APPROPRIATE VOLUME OF THEIR CHILDREN’S HOMEWORK, MR CHAN REPLIED THAT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT MAINTAINED AN EXTENSIVE NETWORK OF AD HOC OR STANDING COMMITTEES THROUGH WHICH PARENTAL VIEWS ON HOMEWORK AND OTHER ISSUES WERE SOLICITED AND TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT.
"THE DEPARTMENT RECOGNISES THAT MORE DIRECT PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT WILL HELP SCHOOLS DECIDE ON THE MOST APPROPRIATE BALANCE BETWEEN WORK AND PLAY IN DIFFERENT CIRCUMSTANCES.
"TO THIS END, THE HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION COMMITTEE WAS ESTABLISHED RECENTLY, FOLLOWING A RECOMMENDATION IN EDUCATION COMMISSION REPORT NO. 5, TO PROMOTE MORE INTERACTION BETWEEN PARENTS AND SCHOOLS," MR CHAN SAID.
- 0 -
PROCEDURES TO ASSESS TEXTBOOKS UNDER REGULAR REVIEW
*****
THE EXISTING PROCEDURES FOR ASSESSING TEXTBOOKS ARE REVIEWED REGULARLY IN CONSULTATION WITH THE THREE LOCAL PUBLISHER’S ASSOCIATIONS, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE PROCEDURES HAVE EVOLVED OVER A LONG PERIOD OF TIME AND NO SEPARATE REVIEW OUTSIDE THIS ONGOING PROCESS IS CONSIDERED NECESSARY, HE ADDED.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON JAMES TO KUN-SUN, MR CHAN EXPLAINED THAT THE REVIEW OF TEXTBOOKS WAS UNDERTAKEN BY A TEXTBOOKS COMMITTEE OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND ITS TEXTBOOKS REVIEWING PANELS.
THE COMMITTEE AND THE REVIEWING PANELS ARE MADE UP OF EDUCATION DEPARTMENT OFFICERS, HEADS AND TEACHERS OF SCHOOLS, AND LECTURERS OF COLLEGES OF EDUCATION AND TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS.
EACH TEXTBOOK SUBMITTED FOR REVIEW IS ASSESSED BY AT LEAST TWO REVIEWERS, TO SEE WHETHER IT FOLLOWS THE SYLLABUSES PREPARED BY THE CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL OR THE HONG KONG EXAMINATION AUTHORITY.
/THE REVIEWERS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
10
THE REVIEWERS WOULD ALSO FIND OUT WHETHER THE TEXTBOOK ATTAINS ACCEPTABLE STANDARDS IN TERMS OF CONTENT, SEQUENCE, EXERCISES, LANGUAGE, ILLUSTRATION AND FORMAT.
TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE ASSESSMENTS OF THE REVIEWERS, A TEXTBOOK IS THEN GRADED EITHER A, B OR C BY THE CO-ORDINATOR OF THE RELEVANT SUBJECT REVIEWING PANEL AND CONSIDERED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE TEXTBOOKS COMMITTEE.
IF ENDORSED, THE PUBLISHER IS NOTIFIED ACCORDINGLY.
ALL TEXTBOOKS GRADED "A" ARE INCLUDED IN THE "LIST OF TEXTBOOKS RECOMMENDED BY THE TEXTBOOKS COMMITTEE" WHICH IS ISSUED TO SCHOOLS QUARTERLY.
TEXTBOOKS GRADED ”B" ARE EXCLUDED FROM THE LIST AND ARE NEITHER RECOMMENDED NOR PROHIBITED FROM BEING USED IN SCHOOLS.
A TEXTBOOK FOUND TOTALLY UNSUITABLE IS GRADED "C" AND IS PROHIBITED FROM BEING USED IN SCHOOLS.
MR CHAN ALSO TOLD THE COUNCIL THAT OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS, TWO CASES OF ALLEGED ERRORS IN THE TEXTBOOKS OF SECONDARY AND PRIMARY SCHOOLS HAD BEEN REPORTED TO THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
ONE COMPLAINT TURNED OUT TO BE UNSUBSTANTIATED WHILE THE OTHER PARTIALLY SUBSTANTIATED.
"THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAS ISSUED INSTRUCTIONS TO ITS REVIEWERS TO TAKE GREATER CARE TO CHECK FOR GRAMMAR, USAGE, STYLE AND THE APPROPRIATENESS OF EXAMPLES USED IN THE TEXT," MR CHAN SAID.
- 0 -
STEPS IN PLACE TO ENSURE GUESTHOUSE SAFETY ******
THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN TAKING A NUMBER OF MEASURES TO IMPROVE SAFETY STANDARDS IN COMMERCIAL OUTLETS AND COMMON AREAS WITHIN GUESTHOUSE BUILDINGS, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPECIALIST TEAMS INCLUDING STAFF FROM THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT ENSURE GUESTHOUSES AND CLUBS COMPLY WITH THEIR LICENSING REQUIREMENTS, HE SAID.
THEY ALSO MONITOR THEIR FIRE SAFETY STANDARDS TO ENSURE PUBLIC SAFETY, HE ADDED.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MARTIN BARROW IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR ASPREY SAID GUESTHOUSES WERE USUALLY FOUND IN BUILDINGS OF MIXED COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL USE.
/HE POINTED
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
11
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE TWO PROBLEMS MOST FREQUENTLY FOUND IN THE COMMON AREAS OF MIXED USER BUILDINGS WERE OBSTRUCTION TO MEANS OF ESCAPE AND AGEING ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS AND WIRING.
AS REGARDS OBSTRUCTIONS, MR ASPREY SAID IN ADDITION TO INSPECTIONS MADE IN RESPONSE TO COMPLAINTS, REGULAR INSPECTIONS WERE CARRIED OUT BY THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
’’FIRE HAZARD ABATEMENT ACTION OR PROSECUTION ACTION IS TAKEN, AS APPROPRIATE, AGAINST OFFENCES UNDER THE FIRE SERVICES ORDINANCE, TO ENSURE THAT THE COMMON AREAS ARE FREE FROM OBSTRUCTION AND THAT THE FIRE SERVICES INSTALLATIONS ARE IN PROPER WORKING ORDER,” HE SAID.
’’OWNERS OF FIXED ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS IN THE COMMON AREAS OF BUILDINGS ARE REQUIRED TO EMPLOY REGISTERED ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS TO CARRY OUT MAINTENANCE WORK ON ELECTRIC WIRING, UNDER THE ELECTRICITY ORDINANCE.
’’THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT CARRIES OUT CHECKS IN THESE PREMISES,” MR ASPREY TOLD THE COUNCIL.
THE SECRETARY FURTHER ADDED THAT PUBLIC EDUCATION WAS IMPORTANT BECAUSE THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY OF ENSURING BUILDING SAFETY WAS TO PERSUADE OWNERS AND COMMERCIAL OPERATORS TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY THEMSELVES FOR MANAGING THEIR OWN BUILDINGS PROPERLY.
’’MESSAGES ON FIRE PREVENTION AND GOOD BUILDING MANAGEMENT HAVE BEEN DISSEMINATED THROUGH LOCAL PUBLICITY CAMPAIGNS, PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS ON TELEVISION AND RADIO AND INFORMATION LEAFLETS.
”1N ADDITION, STAFF FROM THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT MAKE REGULAR VISITS TO THESE PREMISES TO DRIVE HOME THESE MESSAGES AND TO GIVE THE OWNERS AND COMMERCIAL OPERATORS ADVICE ON WAYS OF IMPROVING SAFETY IN THEIR BUILDINGS,” HE SAID.
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STEPS TAKEN TO PREVENT POWER STATION EXPLOSION
******
THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) ASSURED THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THAT ALL POSSIBLE STEPS WOULD BE TAKEN TO PREVENT THE RECURRENCE OF A INCIDENT SIMILAR TO THE EXPLOSION AT TAP SHEK KOK POWER STATION LAST AUGUST.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON LAU CHIN-SHEK, MR ASPREY SAID THE CHINA LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY HAD UNDERTOOK TO INTRODUCE POSITIVE MEASURES FOR IMPROVEMENT IF AND WHEN IT DID REBUILD THE SYSTEM DAMAGED IN THE EXPLOSION.
ON RECEIPT OF AN APPLICATION BY THE COMPANY TO REBUILD THE PLANT, THE GOVERNMENT WILL BE IN A POSITION TO ENSURE THAT ALL THE NECESSARY SAFETY REQUIREMENTS ARE IN PLACE TO PREVENT THE RECURRENCE OF A SIMILAR INCIDENT IN FUTURE, HE SAID.
/THE COMPANY .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
12
THE COMPANY HAS NOT YET DECIDED WHETHER TO REBUILD THE SYSTEM DAMAGED IN THE EXPLOSION.
REGARDING THE REPORT OF THE INTER-DEPARTMENTAL INVESTIGATION HEADED BY THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR ASPREY SAID ITS CONCLUSION AS TO THE CAUSE OF THE EXPLOSION WAS SIMILAR TO THAT REACHED BY THE COMPANY.
HE ADDED THAT THERE WERE, HOWEVER, SOME DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ITS FINDINGS AND THOSE OF THE COMPANY’S REPORT.
A DEATH INQUEST WILL BE CARRIED OUT IN THE SECOND HALF OF APRIL TO LOOK INTO THE CAUSES OF THE DEATHS OF THE TWO EMPLOYEES KILLED IN THE EXPLOSION.
IN THE COURSE OF THIS INQUEST, THE CORONER AND HIS JURORS WILL CONSIDER THE EVIDENCE CONTAINED IN THESE TWO REPORTS.
"UNTIL THE COMPLETION OF THIS INQUEST, AND ANY OTHER RELATED LEGAL PROCEEDINGS THAT MAY BE INITIATED, PUBLICATION OF THE REPORT OF THE INTER-DEPARTMENTAL GROUP WOULD BE PREJUDICIAL TO THE PARTIES INVOLVED," MR ASPREY SAID.
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PENALTY FOR ORAL SEX CRIME ADEQUATE
*****
THE EXISTING PENALTY FOR THE OFFENCE OF INDECENT ASSAULT IS ADEQUATE TO TACKLE THE CRIME OF FORCING ANOTHER PERSON TO PERFORM ORAL SEX, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON PEGGY LAM IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR ASPREY SAID THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT CONSIDER THAT A SEPARATE OFFENCE OF THE ACT WAS NECESSARY.
’’THE PRESENT LAW HAS NOT CAUSED DIFFICULTIES IN RELATION TO THE CHARGING OR SENTENCING OF SUCH OFFENDERS; NOR IS THERE ANY INDICATION THAT SEXUAL OFFENCES OF THIS SORT ARE INCREASING,” HE SAID.
AT PRESENT, A PERSON WHO FORCES ANOTHER PERSON TO PERFORM ORAL SEX, BUT COMMITS NO OTHER VIOLENCE, IS CHARGED WITH INDECENT ASSAULT UNDER THE CRIMES ORDINANCE.
THE MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR THIS OFFENCE IS 10 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT. THIS PENALTY WAS INCREASED FROM FIVE YEARS IN 1991.
HOWEVER, MR ASPREY SAID AN ANALYSTS OF PROSECUTIONS INVOLVING THE OFFENCE SHOWED THAT IT WAS OFTEN ACCOMPANIED BY OTHER SEXUAL OFFENCES, SUCH AS RAPE OR ATTEMPTED RAPE.
"IN SENTENCING OFFENDERS WHO FORCE OTHERS TO PERFORM ORAL SEX, THE COURT IS BOUND TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT ALL OF THE ACTIONS OF THE OFFENDERS," HE SAID.
/AS WITH .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
13
AS WITH RAPE AND BUGGERY, THE EXTENT AND SEVERITY OF PSYCHOLOGICAL DAMAGE DONE TO A VICTIM FORCED TO PERFORM ORAL SEX DEPENDS ON A WIDE RANGE OF FACTORS, SUCH AS THE VIOLENCE USED, AND OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE CASE, HE SAID.
GENERALLY SPEAKING, THE PSYCHOLOGICAL DAMAGE DONE TO VICTIMS FORCED TO PERFORM ORAL SEX IS LESS THAN THAT EXPERIENCED BY VICTIMS OF RAPE AND BUGGERY, HE ADDED.
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GOVT VALUES VIEWS IN LEGCO DEBATES
*****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS ALWAYS ATTACHED GREAT IMPORTANCE TO THE VIEWS OF LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS EXPRESSED IN DEBATES OF THE COUNCIL, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD, SAID.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HENRY TANG YING-YEN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), SIR DAVID SAID THE MEMBERS’ VIEWS ON GOVERNMENT POLICIES WERE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION IN THE FORMULATION OR DEVELOPMENT OF SUCH POLICIES.
’’WHERE IT IS NOT POSSIBLE, FOR POLICY OR RESOURCE REASONS, TO AGREE TO PROPOSALS SUPPORTED BY MEMBERS IN DEBATES, THE GOVERNMENT WILL STATE CLEARLY THE REASONS," HE ADDED.
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CONTROLLED USE OF PYROTECHNICS IN THE PIPELINE *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS DRAWING UP PROCEDURAL GUIDELINES TO FACILITATE THE GRANTING OF PERMITS FOR THE CONTROLLED USE OF PYROTECHNICS IN THEATRICAL, FILM AND TV PRODUCTIONS.
THE RELEVANT INDUSTRIES HAVE BEEN CONSULTED ON THESE PROCEDURAL GUIDELINES.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, WHEN REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MAN SAI-CHEONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR SO EXPLAINED THAT APART FROM SAFEGUARDING PUBLIC SAFETY, INCLUDING THAT OF THE FILM CREW AND PRODUCTION TEAM, THESE GUIDELINES WERE ALSO DESIGNED TO MEET THE SPECIAL NEEDS OF THE INDUSTRIES.
"WE HOPE TO PROMULGATE THESE GUIDELINES SOON, POSSIBLY WITHIN THE NEXT COUPLE OF MONTHS,” MR SO SAID.
SINCE 1967, THE GOVERNMENT HAS IMPOSED A GENERAL BAN ON FIREWORKS WHICH INCLUDE PYROTECHNICS.
THIS BAN IS STILL IN FORCE.
/PERMITS TO .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
14 -
PERMITS TO DISCHARGE FIREWORKS HAVE BEEN GRANTED FROM TIME TO TIME FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS AND CELEBRATIONS SUCH AS THE LUNAR NEW YEAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY.
IT APPEARS THAT PYROTECHNICS HAS ONLY BEEN USED IN FILM AND TV PRODUCTIONS IN RECENT YEARS.
BUT NO APPLICATIONS FOR PERMITS FOR THE USE OF PYROTECHNICS IN FILM AND TV PRODUCTIONS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED BY ANY OF THE RELEVANT AUTHORITIES SINCE 1967.
”WE DO NOT KNOW WHY THE FILM AND TV INDUSTRIES HAVE NOT APPLIED FOR PERMITS,” HE SAID.
’’THIS COULD BE DUE TO A NUMBER OF REASONS INCLUDING IGNORANCE, OR FEAR OF NOT OBTAINING THE NECESSARY PERMIT IN TIME, OR FEAR OF NOT BEING GRANTED A PERMIT AT ALL,” MR SO ADDED.
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REDEVELOPMENTS OF CO-OPERATIVE HOUSING SCHEME
*****
REDEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS FOR CIVIL SERVANTS’ CO-OPERATIVE HOUSING SCHEMES ARE PROCESSED IN THE SAME WAY AS OTHER REDEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON JIMMY MCGREGOR IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR EASON SAID THE GOVERNMENT PROCEDURES AIMED AT DEALING WITH APPLICATIONS AS SPEEDILY AS POSSIBLE WHILE ENSURING THAT PLANNING, LEASING AND BUILDING REQUIREMENTS WERE MET.
HE SAID THREE APPLICATIONS FOR THE REDEVELOPMENT OF CIVIL SERVANTS’ CO-OPERATIVE HOUSING SCHEMES, INVOLVING 41 FLATS, HAD BEEN RECEIVED SO FAR.
"ONE APPLICATION INVOLVING 19 FLATS HAS BEEN APPROVED AND THE PREMIUM IS BEING NEGOTIATED.
’’THIS CASE TOOK APPROXIMATELY FIVE MONTHS TO PROCESS FROM RECEIPT OF APPLICATION TO OFFER OF BASIC TERMS,” HE SAID.
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/15 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
15
TIMBER INDUSTRY UNDER SURVEY ♦ * * * ♦
THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT IS CURRENTLY CONDUCTING A SURVEY ON THE TIMBER INDUSTRY, INCLUDING THE IMPORTATION, STORAGE AND SAWING OF LOGS AND THE USE OF SAWN LOGS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ALBERT CHAN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID IF STORAGE SITES WERE FOUND INSUFFICIENT IN THE STUDY, WHICH WOULD BE COMPLETED SHORTLY, THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT WOULD INITIATE A SITE SEARCH FOR MORE.
HE EXPLAINED THAT A NUMBER OF FACTORS WERE CONSIDERED IN ALLOCATING LAND FOR TIMBER STORAGE. THESE INCLUDED SITE AVAILABILITY, COMPETING DEMANDS FROM DIFFERENT END-USERS, COMPATIBILITY WITH THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT AND THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE INDIVIDUAL CASE.
ABOUT $3,893 MILLION WORTH OF DIFFERENT KINDS OF TIMBER WAS IMPORTED LAST YEAR AND A TOTAL OF 39.1 HECTARES OF LAND SPECIFICALLY DESIGNATED FOR LOG POND, TIMBER STORAGE AND SAWMILL PURPOSES WAS KNOWN TO THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, HE ADDED.
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AIRPORT TAX COLLECTION SYSTEM WORKS WELL
******
THE PRESENT SYSTEM OF AIR PASSENGER DEPARTURE TAX COLLECTION HAS GENERALLY WORKED WELL BOTH IN TERMS OF PASSENGERS’ CONVENIENCE AND SECURITY OF REVENUE COLLECTION, THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES MRS ANSON CHAN, SAID.
"THE GOVERNMENT IS NEVERTHELESS ALWAYS PREPARED TO CONSIDER SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVING THE SYSTEM FURTHER," SHE ADDED.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON TAM YIU-CHUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MRS CHAN SAID SINCE THE INTRODUCTION OF THE TAX IN 1983, AIRLINE OPERATORS HAD BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COLLECTION OF THE TAX.
THE GOVERNMENT PAID A FEE TO THE AIRLINE OPERATORS TO COVER STAFF AND OTHER COSTS INCURRED IN CONNECTION WITH COLLECTION, ACCOUNTING, SECURITY AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE TAX.
THE APPROVED ESTIMATE FOR THE COLLECTION FEE IN THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1992/93 IS $19 MILLION.
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/16 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
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RAILWAY CORPORATIONS CLOSELY MONITORED ******
THE OPERATIONS OF THE TWO RAILWAY CORPORATIONS ARE CAREFULLY MONITORED TO ENSURE THAT THEY ARE SENSITIVE TO THE NEEDS OF THE TRAVELLING PUBLIC.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, IN A MOTION DEBATE ON THE MECHANISMS FOR MONITORING THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION (MTRC) AND KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION (KCRC) IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR LEUNG STRESSED THAT THE BASIC REQUIREMENTS TO MONITOR THE OPERATIONS OF BOTH CORPORATIONS WERE LAID DOWN IN THEIR RESPECTIVE ORDINANCES.
UNDER THE LAW, THE TWO CORPORATIONS ARE REQUIRED TO OPERATE RAIL SERVICES HAVING REGARD TO THE REASONABLE REQUIREMENTS OF THE PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM OF HONG KONG.
"THIS REQUIRES THEM TO PROVIDE AN EFFICIENT, SAFE AND RELIABLE RAILWAY SERVICE TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY," MR LEUNG SAID.
THE MEMBERS OF THE TWO GOVERNING BOARDS ARE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR.
THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL IS EMPOWERED TO GIVE DIRECTIONS TO THE TWO CORPORATIONS IF PUBLIC INTEREST SO REQUIRES.
IN ADDITION TO THE STATUTORY SAFEGUARDS, THE GOVERNMENT HAS INTRODUCED ADMINISTRATIVE ARRANGEMENTS OVER THE YEARS TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC INTEREST. THIS IS AN ONGOING PROCESS OF REGULAR REVIEWS AND IMPROVEMENTS.
FOR EXAMPLE, THE CORPORATIONS ARE REQUIRED TO PRODUCE CORPORATE STRATEGIES AND BUSINESS PLANS FOR AGREEMENT WITH THE ADMINISTRATION.
IN ADDITION, THE ADMINISTRATION RECEIVES AND STUDIES THEIR MONTHLY OPERATING REPORTS TO EXAMINE AN^ DEVIATIONS FROM APPROVED PLANS AND BUDGETS AND TO TAKE REMEDIAL ACTION.
TO REVIFW PERFORMANCE AND PROVIDE ANY NECESSARY DIRECTIONS ON POLICY ISSUES, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT MEETS THE CORPORATIONS’ CHAIRMEN REGULARLY.
THE OPERATIONS OF THE TWO CORPORATIONS ARE ALSO SUBJECT TO THE REGULAR SCRUTINY OF LEGCO, ' TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND THE DISTRICT BOARDS THROUGH QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSIONS ON ISSUES OF PUBLIC CONCERN.
ON FINANCIAL MONITORING, MR LEUNG SAID THE TWO CORPORATIONS WERE REQUIRED TO PRODUCE AUDITED ACCOUNTS AND ANNUAL REPORTS FOR TABLING AT LEGCO.
THEY CANNOT UNDERTAKE ANY INVESTMENTS OF THEIR OWN MONEYS WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY.
/MOREOVER, THE ........
17
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
MOREOVER, THE GOVERNMENT WILL NOT PROVIDE ANY GUARANTEE TO THE CORPORATIONS BORROWINGS WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OE THE LEGCO, MR LEUNG SAID.
ON RAILWAY SAFETY, MR LEUNG SAID THERE WAS A LOCAL RAILWAY INSPECTORATE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR TO UNDERTAKE SAFETY INSPECTIONS AND TO INVESTIGATE ACC I DENTS.
REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UK RAILWAY INSPECTORATE ALSO VISIT HONG KONG REGULARLY TO CARRY OUT RAILWAY INSPECTIONS AND TO REVIEW MATTERS CONCERNING SAFETY.
ABOVE ALL, THE TRAVELLING PUBLIC PROVIDE THE MOST DIRECT AND EFFECTIVE MONITORING. THIS IS DONE THROUGH AN EXTENSIVE NETWORK ESTABLISHED BY THE TWO CORPORATIONS INCLUDING PASSENGERS LIAISON GROUPS, CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRES AND REGULAR CUSTOMER SURVEYS.
SUCH DIRECT COMMUNICATION HAS PRODUCED USEFUL RESULTS. THESE INCLUDE IMPROVEMENTS TO TRAIN FREQUENCIES, AIR CONDITIONING, PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS, PASSENGER QUEUING AND TICKETING, AND STATION FACILITIES.
FOR THE PAST THREE YEARS, THE TWO CORPORATIONS HAVE SPENT A TOTAL OF $1.2 BILLTON ON SUCH IMPROVEMENTS.
IN ADDITION TO THE EXISTING COMPLAINTS PROCEDURES, THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL HAS RECENTLY DECIDED TO EXTEND THE JURISDICTION OF THE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS TO INCLUDE THE TWO CORPORATIONS.
IN RESPONSE TO CONCERNS ON THE CORPORATIONS’ ABILITY TO DETERMINE FARES, MR LEUNG EXPLAINED THAT THE FUNDAMENTAL REASON FOR HAVING PUBLIC' CORPORATIONS WAS TO ENABLE THEM TO GENERATE SUFFICIENT REVENUE TO ('OVER EXPENDITURE, AND TO ALLOW FOR RESERVE TO MEET IMPROVEMENTS AND EXPANSIONS.
THIS ENSURES THAT THE TWO CORPORATIONS DO NOT REQUIRE ANY GOVERNMENT SUBSIDY.
’’GIVEN THESE CONSIDERATIONS,” MR LEUNG SAID, "THE TWO CORPORATIONS HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFUL TN DEVELOPING A FARE POLICY OF MODEST ANNUAL INCREASES, GENERALLY LOWER THAN INFLATION.
"IN SETTING THEIR FARES, THE CORPORATIONS MUST ALSO ENSURE THAT THEIR COMPETITIVE EDGE VIS-A-VIS OTHER TRANSPORT MODES IS NOT ERODED. THIS ACTS AS AN EFFECTIVE CONSTRAINT ON FARE INCREASES,” MR LEUNG EMPHASISED.
"THUS, SINCE 1980, MTR FARES HAVE INCREASED BY AN AVERAGE OF 7.6 PER CENT PER ANNUM COMPARED WITH AN ANNUAL INCREASE OF 9 PER CENT IN CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A). KCR FARES HAVE XLSO BEEN KEPT BELOW INFLATION IN THE PAST FIVE YEARS," MR LEUNG SAID.
OVERALL, MR LEUNG SAID THE CORPORATIONS HAD REEN OPERATING SUCCESSFULLY SINCE THEIR ESTABLISHMENT. THIS IS ILLUSTRATED BY THEIR EFFICIENT SERVICE, SAFETY RECORDS, IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMMES AND REASONABLE FARES, WHICH COMPARE VERY FAVOURABLY WITH SYSTEMS ELSEWHERE IN THE WORLD.
/’’ANY UNWARRANTED.......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
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’’ANY UNWARRANTED ATTEMPT TO UPSET THE BALANCE OF SUSTAINING THE CORPORATIONS’ COMMERCIAL VIABILITY ON THE ONE HAND AND DEMANDS FOR INCREASED MONITORING ON THE OTHER COULD YFFECT THEIR FINANCIAL VIABILITY AND CREDIT RATING, AND CONSEQUENTLY THEIR XB1L1TV TO FUND FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS AND EXPANSIONS," MR LEUNG SAID.
MR LEUNG CONCLUDED THAT IN VIEW OF THE PRESENT EXTENSIVE AND EFFECTIVE MONITORING SYSTEM AND ONGOING REVIEWS \ND IMPROVEMENTS OF IT, A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW DID NOT APPEAR TO BE NEEDED.
HOWEVER, HE HAS TAKEN FULL NOTE OF \LL SPECIFIC AREAS OF CONCERN RAISED AND WILL CONSIDER HOW FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS COULD BE MADE WITHIN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS.
- - 0-------------
SPEECH BY SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR T H CHAU, IN MOTION DEBATE ON FAIR TRADE POLICY AT LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY)
* ♦ ♦ t t
MR DEPUTY PRESIDENT,
ABOUT A MONTH AGO, IN ANSWERING A QUESTION IN THIS COUNCIL RAISED BY MR LI WAH-MING ON THE SUBJECT OF TODAY’S DEBATE, I POINTED OUT THAT, DURING THE DEBATE LAST OCTOBER ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, DIAMETRICALLY OPPOSED VIEWS HAD BEEN EXPRESSED BY MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL ON HOW THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD APPROACH THE DEVELOPMENT OF A COMPETITION POLICY.
THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY MEMBERS TODAY ARE NO LESS DIVERGENT OR EVEN CONFLICTING. AT ONE END OF THE SPECTRUM, WE HAVE HEARD THAT GOVERNMENTAL OR LEGISLATIVE INTERVENTION WHICH WOULD RESULT IN A PROBABLY HUGE BUREAUCRATIC APPARATUS AND MORE RED TAPE AND WHICH WOULD DISTORT MARKETS AND THE ALLOCATION OF RESOURCES SHOULD NOT BE PURSUED SINCE IT WOULD STIFLE ENTERPRISE, REDUCE EFFICIENCY AND DAMAGE OUR ECONOMY. AT THE OTHER END OF THE SPECTRUM, VIEWS HAD BEEN EXPRESSED THAT MONOPOLISTIC TENDENCIES AND ANTI-COMPETITION PRACTICES ALREADY EXIST IN SOME SECTORS OF OUR ECONOMY. AND THAT ANTI-TRUST LAWS, MORE LEGISLATION ON CONSUMER PROTECTION AND FAIR TRADE LAWS SHOULD BE INTRODUCED AND A FAIR TRADE COMMISSION SHOULD BE SET UP TO GIVE CONSUMERS A FAIR DEAL.
IT IS WORTH NOTING ONCE AGAIN THAT, AS IN THE CASE OF THE OCTOBER DEBATE, SUCH DIVIDED VIEWS ARE ALL ABOUT WHAT REGULATORY FRAMEWORK, OR WHAT MEANS, HONG KONG SHOULD ADOPT IN ORDER TO ENHANCE COMPETITION, BUT THAT THERE IS NO DISAGREEMENT ON WHAT OUR FUNDAMENTAL OBJECTIVE SHOULD BE, AND THAT IS TO GIVE CONSUMERS ADEQUATE PROTECTION.
/I WOULD .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
- 19 -
I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE IT CLEAR ON THIS OCCASION THAT THE GOVERNMENT SUBSCRIBES FULLY TO THE PHILOSOPHY OF FREE AND FAIR MARKETS, WHICH IS THE BEST FORMULA FOR ENHANCING COMPETITION AND EFFICIENCY ON THE ONE HAND AND KEEPING COSTS AND PRICES DOWN ON THE OTHER.
I AM GRATEFUL TO MEMBERS FOR THEIR SUGGESTIONS ON WAYS TO ENHANCE COMPETITION IN OUR ECONOMY AND FOR THEIR OBSERVATIONS ON THE POSSIBLE OR PERCEIVED RESTRICTIVE TRADE PRACTICES IN CERTAIN SPECIFIC SECTORS. I WOULD LIKE TO ASSURE MEMBERS THAT, IN OUR FURTHER DELIBERATIONS ON THIS ISSUE, WE WILL GIVE THE MOST CAREFUL CONSIDERATION TO THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS COUNCIL THIS AFTERNOON. I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO UNDERLINE THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO THE USE OF APPROPRIATE AND PRAGMATIC MEASURES TO RECTIFY ANY UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES, SAFEGUARD FAIR COMPETITION AND PROTECT THE INTEREST OF CONSUMERS.
I DO NOT THINK IT IS NECESSARY TODAY FOR ME TO RESPOND INDIVIDUALLY TO OBSERVATIONS MADE BY MEMBERS ON ALLEGED MONOPOLISTIC OR OLIGOPOLISTIC TENDENCIES OR INADEQUATE COMPETITION IN A NUMBER OF BUSINESS SECTORS. MOST OF THESE SECTORS HAVE BEEN THE SUBJECTS OF COMMENTS BY MY COLLEAGUES ON PREVIOUS OCCASIONS. AND, SOME ARE THE SUBJECTS OF STUDIES CURRENTLY BEING UNDERTAKEN BY THE CONSUMER COUNCIL. ONE OF THEM, THE MONITORING OF OUR TWO RAILWAYS, WILL INDEED BE THE SUBJECT OF A DEBATE FOLLOWING THIS ONE. BUT I MUST STRESS THAT MY NOT RESPONDING TO POINTS MADE BY MEMBERS ON THESE SECTORS DOES NOT NECESSARILY MEAN THAT THE GOVERNMENT AGREES WITH ANY OF THOSE POINTS. AS A GENERAL POINT, WHAT I WOULD LIKE TO SAY IS THAT IT IS THE GOVERNMENT’S BELIEF THAT, WHENEVER POSSIBLE, COMPETITION SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED AND THAT IT IS THROUGH COMPETITION THAT FAIR PRICES AND SERVICES CAN BE OBTAINED. THERE ARE HOWEVER CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE THE LEVEL OF INVESTMENT REQUIRED, OR THE NEED FOR PRUDENTIAL SUPERVISION, OR THE LONG-TERM INTEREST OF CONSUMERS, OR OTHER FACTORS, INDICATE THAT FREE COMPETITION MAY NOT BE OBTAINABLE, OR MAY NOT BE THE BEST SOLUTION. IN SUCH CASES, THROUGH VARIOUS ARRANGEMENTS, WE HAVE ACHIEVED A REASONABLE BALANCE BETWEEN A JUSTIFIED MONOPOLISTIC OR OLIGOPOLISTIC SITUATION ON THE ONE HAND AND THE BENEFITS OF QUALITY SERVICES AND FAIR PRICES ON THE OTHER.
IN RESPECT OF THOSE SECTORS IN THE ECONOMY WHICH ARE SUBJECT TO GOVERNMENT CONTROLS, A KEY IMPERATIVE IN THE FORMULATION OF SUCH CONTROLS IS THE PROMOTION OF COMPETITION AND PROTECTION OF CONSUMERS. THESE CONTROLS ARE REVIEWED AND REVISED FROM TIME TO TIME TO IDENTIFY AREAS FOR POSSIBLE IMPROVEMENT AND TO MEET THE NEEDS OF CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES. THE EFFORTS WE HAVE MADE IN THE LAST YEAR, FOR EXAMPLE, INCLUDE THE INJECTION OF MORE COMPETITION INTO THE AREAS OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS, PUBLIC TRANSPORT AND TELEVISION. WE ARE BY NO MEANS COMPLACENT ABOUT THESE EFFORTS. THERE MUST ALWAYS BE ROOM FOR FURTHER IMPROVEMENT.
/AS I ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
20
AS I SAJI) TN THIS COUNCIL A MONTH AGO, WE BELIEVE THAT THE BEST WAY FORWARD IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A COMPETITION POLICY IS TO ASCERTAIN WHAT ANTI-COMPETITIVE TRADE PRACTICES EXIST IN THOSE MAJOR BUSINESS SECTORS AFFECTING THE DAILY LIFE OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC. TO THIS END, WE HAVE ALLOCATED ADDITIONAL FUNDS TO THE CONSUMER COUNCIL FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONDUCTING A SERIES OF STUDIES ON THE STATE OF COMPETITION IN SUCH MAJOR BUSINESS SECTORS. THE SECTORS BEING STUDIED ARE : SUPERMARKETS, THE BROADCASTING INDUSTRY, TELECOMMUNICATIONS, SUPPLY OF ENERGY AND FINANCIAL SERVICES. IN CONDUCTING THESE STUDIES, THE CONSUMER COUNCIL WILL, I AM SURE, HAVE REGARD TO ANY VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE PUBLIC, THE CONCERNED BUSINESS SECTOR AND OTHER RELEVANT SECTORS OF THE ECONOMY. ON THE GOVERNMENT’S PART, WE SHALL CO-OPERATE FULLY WITH THE CONSUMER COUNCIL AND ASSIST IN THESE STUDIES IN ANY WAY WE CAN.
WE DO NOT WISH TO PRE-EMPT THE FINDINGS OF THESE SECTORSPECIFIC STUDIES. WE HAVE AN OPEN MIND AND ARE WILLING TO CONSIDER ALL OPTIONS BEFORE RECOMMENDING WHICH OPTIONS ARE BEST SUITED TO PROMOTE COMPETITION IN DIFFERENT SECTORS OF OUR ECONOMY.
WE HOPE THAT THE FINDINGS OF THESE STUDIES WILL SHED LIGHT ON ANY PROBLEMS AFFECTING COMPETITION IN THESE SECTORS. ON THE BASIS OF THESE FINDINGS, WE SHALL, AS NECESSARY, REVISE OUR EXISTING POLICIES AND FORMULATE NEW ONES AND, WHERE APPROPRIATE, CONSIDER INTRODUCING LEGISLATIVE OR INSTITUTIONAL CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT THOSE POLICIES IN ORDER TO PROMOTE COMPETITION AND ENHANCE CONSUMER PROTECTION.
MR DEPUTY PRESIDENT, WE BELIEVE THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD ADOPT A STEP-BY-STEP PRAGMATIC APPROACH IN ITS FORMULATION OF THE FRAMEWORKS THAT ARE MOST SUITED FOR ENHANCING COMPETITION IN THE DIFFERENT SECTORS OF OUR ECONOMY. WE BELIEVE THAT WE SHOULD NOT RUSH INTO CONCLUSIONS ON THIS IMPORTANT SUBJECT. WE SHOULD NOT AT THIS STAGE COME DOWN TN FAVOUR OF OR AGAINST ANY PARTICULAR OPTION, WHICH MAY OR MAY NOT INVOLVE A NEW INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENT OR A NEW LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK. FOR THESE REASONS, THE EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL WILL ABSTAIN FROM VOTING ON EITHER MR. LI’S MOTION OR MR. MCGREGOR’S AMENDMENT.
THANK YOU, MR DEPUTY PRESIDENT.
------0--------
LEGCO CONSIDERS BILL ON * * *
FILING OF COMPANY RETURN
* * ♦
A BILL THAT ATMS TO ENSURE A MORE EVEN FLOW OF SUBMISSIONS OF ANNUAL RETURNS FOR FILING IN THE COMPANIES REGISTRY IS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
COMPANIES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1993 ALSO SEEKS TO INTRODUCE A DEGREE OF FLEXIBILITY FOR COMPANIES LIMITED BY GUARANTEE AND TO PROVIDE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE INDEX OF THE DIRECTORSHIPS HELD BY DIRECTORS OF LISTED COMPANIES.
/IN ADDITION .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
21
IN ADDITION, THE BILL PROPOSES TO STRENGTHEN THE SPECIAL PROCEDURES FOR THE VOLUNTARY WINDING UP OF COMPANIES AND TO UPDATE CERTAIN FEES AND PENALTIES.
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL, THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR MONETARY AFFAIRS, MR TAM WING-PONG, SAID THE PROPOSALS HAD BEEN RECOMMENDED BY THE STANDING COMMITTEE ON COMPANY LAW REFORM AFTER CONSULTATION WITH THE RELEVANT PROFESSIONAL BODIES.
UNDER THE BILL, COMPANIES WILL BE REQUIRED TO FILE THEIR ANNUAL RETURNS WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE DATE OF THEIR INCORPORATION.
MR TAM SAID THESE ANNIVERSARIES WERE, IN GENERAL, MORE EVENLY SPREAD THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.
AT PRESENT, A COMPANY IS REQUIRED TO FILE A COPY OF ITS ANNUAL RETURN WITH THE REGISTRAR OF COMPANIES WITHIN 42 DAYS OF ITS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING WHICH IS USUALLY HELD AROUND THE END OF THE CALENDER YEAR.
COMPLIANCE WITH THE ORDINANCE USUALLY LEADS TO A SUDDEN AND HEAVY INFLUX OF ANNUAL RETURNS DURING JANUARY AND FEBRUARY.
’’THIS RESULTS IN INCREASED QUEUING TIMES AND GENERAL INCONVENIENCE FOR THE PUBLIC, AND IMPOSES UNNECESSARILY ONEROUS DUTIES ON THE COMPANIES REGISTRY AT THIS TIME OF YEAR,” MR TAM SAID.
AS REGARDS PROPOSALS FOR COMPANIES LIMITED BY GUARANTEE, MR TAM EXPLAINED THAT ANY MEMBER OF A COMPANY WAS AT PRESENT ENTITLED TO APPOINT ANOTHER PERSON, WHETHER A MEMBER OR NOT, AS HIS PROXY.
HE ADDED THAT UNDER THE ORDINANCE, AT A GENERAL MEETING OF A COMPANY, OTHER THAN A PRIVATE COMPANY, A MOTION FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF TWO OR MORE DIRECTORS BY A SINGLE RESOLUTION WAS PROHIBITED.
THESE PROVISIONS HAVE CAUSED SOME CONCERN FOR COMPANIES LIMITED BY GUARANTEE ESPECIALLY THOSE COMPANIES WHICH ARE PRIVATE CLUBS, HE SAID.
THEY FIND IT UNPALATABLE THAT NON-MEMBERS ARE ALLOWED TO VOTE AT MEETINGS, AS PROXIES, RUT MEMBERS HAVE AT ALL TIMES TO VOTE INDIVIDUALLY IN PERSON ON COMMITTEE MEMBERS, HE SAID.
"WE PROPOSE THEREFORE TO RELAX THESE REQUIREMENTS IN RELATION TO COMPANIES LIMITED BY GUARANTEE. HOWEVER, THESE COMPANIES WILL BE ABLE TO CONTINUE TO APPLY SUCH REQUIREMENTS IF THEY SO WISH UNDER THE TERMS OF THEIR MEMORANDA AND ARTICLES OF \SSOCI AT ION," HE SAID.
ON THE KEEPING OF A COMPREHENSIVE INDEX OF ALL COMPANY
DIRECTORS, MR TAM SAID THE PRESENT PROVISION REQUIRING THE REGISTRAR OF COMPANIES TO MAINTAIN SUCH AN INDEX FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION HAD NOT YET BEEN BROUGHT INTO EFFECT BECAUSE OF RESOURCE PROBLEMS.
"WE NOW PROPOSE THAT, AS AN INTERIM MEASURE, A COMPREHENSIVE INDEX BE CREATED TO COVER THE PARTICULARS OF ALL THE DIRECTORSHIPS HELD BY DIRECTORS OF LISTED COMPANIES," HE SAID.
/THIS INFORMATION .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1993
THIS INFORMATION WILL THEREFORE NEED TO BE KEPT ON THE REGISTER OF DIRECTORS AND SECRETARIES THAT COMPANIES ARE REQUIRED TO KEEP UNDER THE ORDINANCE.
"THE INDEX WILL INITIALLY BE OPEN FOR SEARCHES BY CERTAIN REGULATORY AGENCIES BUT IT MAY BE MADE ACCESSIBLE TO THE PUBLIC IN DUE COURSE IF RESOURCES PERMIT," MR TAM SAID.
TURNING TO FURTHER SAFEGUARDS IN RELATION TO THE CONDUCT OF VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP, HE SAID THE CHANGES INCLUDED SPECIFYING WHO MAY QUALIFY FOR APPOINTMENT AS PROVISIONAL LIQUIDATOR, LIMITING THE POWERS OF THE APPOINTEE AND STRENGTHENING CERTAIN NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS IN ORDER TO ENHANCE THE PROTECTION OF CREDITORS.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
LEGCO DISCUSSES FAIR TRADE POLICY * * * * *
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) PASSED AN AMENDED MOTION ON FAIR TRADE POLICY AFTER A DERATE THAT LASTED MORE THAN TWO HOURS.
THE AMENDED MOTION WAS MOVED BY THE HON JIMMY MCGREGOR. TWENTY-ONE MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE DEBATE WITH THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR T H CHAU, REPLIED FOR THE GOVERNMENT.
THE ORGINAL MOTION PROPOSED BY THE HON FRED LT WAS DEFEATED.
A TOTAL OF 22 MEMBERS SPOKE IN ANOTHER MOTION DEBATE ON THE MONITORING OF MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION AND KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION. THE MOTION, PROPOSED BY THE HON LAU CHIN-SHEK, WAS PASSED.
DEBATE.
THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, WINDED UP THE
THE FORESTS AND COUNTRYSIDE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1992 WAS PASSED WITHOUT AMENDMENT.
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
JOINT EFFORTS NEEDED FOR A GREENER PEARL RIVER DELTA: GOVERNOR ...................................................... 1
ANY TALKS WITH CHINA ON POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT WELCOMED ....... 1
HK WILL BE INVOLVED IN ANY ELECTION TALKS .................... 2
EDUCATION AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES OUTLINED ................ 2
PAA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER .................................. 3
CORPORATISATION THE BEST OPTION FOR RTHK ..................... 4
ORDERS, EMPLOYMENT AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS FIGURES FOR DECEMBER RELEASED ............................................. 4
STATISTICS ON TRADE INVOLVING OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA, THIRD QUARTER 1992 ............................................ 8
CONTRACTS FOR REDUCING FLOODING RISK SIGNED .................. 12
ENORMOUS OPPORTUNITIES FOR INSURANCE INDUSTRY ................ 12
CONSULTATION ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW ENDS SOON ................. 14
MEXICO INITIATES ANTI-DUMPING INVESTIGATION ON BRASS PADLOCKS 14
/189 CAUGHT
189 CAUGHT IN OPERATION AGAINST ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS
15
CHINESE HARBOUR SUPERINTENDENCY VISIT A SUCCESS ................ 16
TROPICAL CYCLONE SIGNALS NOT SHOWN AT TAMAR .................... 17
CAREER EXPO '93 WELL RECEIVED .................................. 18
SEMINAR ON BUILDING SAFETY ..................................... 18
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY .......................................... 19
MINI-EXHIBITION TO PROMOTE DISABLED EMPLOYMENT ................. 19
157 RETURN TO VIETNAM .......................................... 20
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
20
1 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY IB, 1993
JOINT EFFORTS NEEDED FOR A GREENER PEARL RIVER DELTA: GOVERNOR *****
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, TODAY (THURSDAY) CAUTIONED THAT THE PEARL RIVER DELTA, ONE OF THE MOST RAPIDLY GROWING ECONOMIES TN THE WORLD, MIGHT' END UP AS A HUMAN WASTELAND IF POLLUTION CONTINUED.
”IF WE CARRY ON AS WE ARE, WE’LL FETCH UP TURNING OUR ECONOMIC OASIS INTO AN ENVIRONMENT AND ULTIMATELY A HUMAN WASTELAND OR PERHAPS I SHOULD SAY ’WASTE WATER’,” MR PATTEN SAID.
HE WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE INTERNATIONAL POLLUTION CONTROL WORKSHOP AT THE HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERS.
HE SAID IT WAS ESSENTIAL FOR GUANGDONG, HONG KONG AND MACAU TO WORK TOGETHER TO CO-ORDINATE EFFORTS TO SAFEGUARD WATER QUALITY AND TO PREVENT POLLUTION THAT DRIFTED FROM ONE JURISDICTION TO ANOTHER, OBLIVIOUS OF THE BUREAUCRATIC BOUNDARIES.
"WE NEED TO WORK TOGETHER IN SO MANY AREAS, WE NEED TO WORK TOGETHER IN RESEARCH, WE NEED TO WORK TOGETHER IN SETTING STANDARDS, WE NEED TO WORK TOGETHER IN MONITORING.
"ABOVE ALL, WE NEED TO EXCHANGE OUR IDEAS AND TO EXCHANGE OUR INFORMATION AND I THINK WE’RE STARTING TO DO THAT ALREADY," THE GOVERNOR SAID.
THE LINKS BETWEEN GUANGDONG, HONG KONG AND MACAU AND THE JOINT HONG KONG/GUANGDONG ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION LIA ISON. GROUP ARE A VERY SOLID BASIS FOR THE WORK, HE SAID.
AND THE GOAL IS TO CREATE A GREENER AND CLEANER PEARL RIVER DELTA.
"SO I DO HOPE THAT WHAT WE Do IN THIS REGION CAN NOT ONLY BE A LESSON FOR THE WORLD ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF OPEN ECONOMIES AND FREE TRADE BUT CAN ALSO BE A SIGNAL TO THE REST OF THE WORLD ABOUT HOW COOPERATION IN ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS CAN AVOID SOME OF THE POLLUTION WHICH HAS DISFIGURED THE DEVELOPED COUNTRIES OF EUROPE AND NORTH AMERICA IN THE LAST FEW YEARS."
--------0 -
ANY TALKS WITH CHINA ON POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT WELCOMED *****
THE HONG KONG AND THE BRITISH GOVERNMENTS ARE HAPPY TO HAVE TALKS WITH CHINA ABOUT THE POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG AT ANY TIME, IN ANY PLACE, AND WITHOUT ANY PRE-CONDITIONS, THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING TO THE PRESS AFTER OPENING THE CAREER EXPO ’93, THE GOVERNOR SAID: "THAT’S A POINT THAT I MADE ABUNDANTLY PLAIN FOR EXAMPLE LAST OCTOBER WHEN I ADDRESSED THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AT THE BEGINNING OF THE LEGISLATIVE SESSION.
/•'I'M SORRY ..........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
2
"I’M SORRY THAT I CAN’T SAY MORE THAN THAT AT THIS STAGE. I REALISE THAT IT’S VERY FRUSTRATING FOR YOU, I REALISE THAT IT’S VERY FRUSTRATING FOR THE COMMUNITY, THOUGH I THINK THAT YOU PROBABLY RECOGNISE AND THE COMMUNITY PROBABLY RECOGNISES THAT WE DO HAVE TO BE DISCREET AT THIS STAGE.
"FROM MY POINT OF VIEW THE SOONER WE’RE ABLE TO MAKE A FURTHER STATEMENT THE BETTER BUT FOR THE TIME BEING I REPEAT WHAT I SAID AT THE BEGINNING THAT WE’RE HAPPY TO HAVE TALKS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT PRECONDITIONS.”
ASKED ABOUT A REPORT IN LONDON THAT HONG KONG WAS EXCLUDED FROM ANY RENEWED TALK, THE GOVERNOR SAID THE STORY WAS DENIED BY LONDON TODAY AND WITHIN 20 MINUTES OF IT APPEARING ON A LOCAL RADIO STATION BY A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN IN EXPLICIT AND AUTHORITATIVE TERMS.
"BUT I REPEAT THAT UNFORTUNATELY UNTIL WE’RE ABLE TO MAKE A FURTHER STATEMENT, THOSE SORT OF RIDICULOUS RUMOURS WILL CIRCULATE, RUMOURS WHICH I DON’T THINK ANYBODY SHOULD TAKE SERIOUSLY,” HE SAID.
---------------------0-------- HK WILL BE INVOLVED IN ANY ELECTION TALKS *****
THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION CO-ORDINATOR, MR MIKE HANSON, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THERE WAS NO TRUTH WHATSOEVER TO REPORTS THAT HONG KONG WOULD BE EXCLUDED FROM ANY TALKS BETWEEN BRITAIN AND CHINA ON ARRANGEMENTS FOR 1994/95 ELECTIONS.
MR HANSON SAID WE WERE NOT IN THE POSITION TO MAKE A STATEMENT ABOUT WHETHER THERE WOULD OR THERE WOULD NOT BE TALKS.
"BUT, IF THERE ARE TO BE TALKS, HONG KONG WILL BE FULLY INVOLVED AT EVERY STAGE AND THIS MEANS DIRECT PARTICIPATION," HE ADDED.
MR HANSON SAID THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR 1994/95 ELECTION MUST COMMAND THE SUPPORT OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND THE CONFIDENCE OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
-----0------
EDUCATION AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES OUTLINED
*****
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, TODAY (THURSDAY) OUTLINED THE EDUCATION AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE TO YOUNG PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
HONG KONG CAN BE VERY PROUD OF ITS LONG TRADITION OF NINE-YEAR FREE AND COMPULSORY EDUCATION, THE GOVERNOR SAID AT THE OPENING OF THE EDUCATION AND CAREER EXPO ’93 HELD AT THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE.
/"fr 'WE’RE ......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
3
’’NOW WE’RE FOCUSING ON THE NEED TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF THIS EDUCATION,” HE SAID.
TO ACHIEVE THIS GOAL, MR PATTEN SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS EMBARKING ON CURRICULUM REFORM, INTRODUCING BETTER TEACHING AND BETTER TEACHER/PUPIL RATIOS, AND SETTING ATTAINMENT TARGETS AND RELATED ASSESSMENTS.
’’THESE WILL ALL IMPROVE THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR OUR STUDENTS,” HE SAID.
AT THE TERTIARY LEVEL, THE GOVERNOR SAID THE PLACES AVAILABLE WOULD BE EXPANDED SO THAT FROM 1994/95 NEARLY ONE-QUARTER OF HONG KONG'S YOUNGSTERS COULD GO ON FOR FURTHER STUDY.
ON TECHNICAL EDUCATION, HE SAID IN SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR, TWO NEW TECHNICAL COLLEGES WOULD TAKE IN THEIR FIRST STUDENTS AND GIVE THEM THE SKILLS THEY NEED TO MEET THE GROWING DEMANDS OF THIS FASTCHANGING SOCIETY.
THE GOVERNOR CONGRATULATED THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL FOR ORGANISING THE EXHIBITION WHICH HELPS OFFER CAREER GUIDANCE TO SCHOOL LEAVERS.
--------0------------
PAA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER * * * * »
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA QUESTIONS, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID:
THE APPOINTMENT OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY IS A MATTER FOR THE AUTHORITY’S BOARD.
THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN INFORMED OF THE PAA BOARD DECISION, AND IT IS CONFIDENT THAT DR HANK TOWNSEND WILL MAINTAIN THE MOMENTUM OF THIS IMPORTANT PROJECT. DR TOWNSEND HAS BEEN CLOSELY INVOLVED IN THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME FOR THREE YEARS AS CONSULTANT PROJECT MANAGER IN THE GOVERNMENT’S NEW AIRPORT PROJECTS CO-ORDINATION OFFICE.
THE GOVERNMENT REMAINS FULLY COMMITTED TO COMPLETING THE AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT POSSIBLE BY 1997, IN LINE WITH THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING.
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/4.........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY IB, 1993
4
CORPORATISATION THE BEST OPTION FOR RTHK
******
IN RESPONSE TO PRESS ENQUIRIES ABOUT REMARKS ON RTHK CORPORATISATION MADE BY THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, AT THIS (THURSDAY) MORNING’S LEGCO RECREATION AND CULTURE PANEL MEETING, MR SO WISHED TO MAKE IT CLEAR THAT CORPORATISATION WAS THE BEST OPTION FOR RTHK.
HOWEVER, THE CURRENT POLITICAL SITUATION DOES COMPLICATE THIS ISSUE, HE SAID.
AS THE MATTER IS STILL UNDER CONSIDERATION, MR SO HAS INFORMED THE LEGCO PANEL THAT THE GOVERNMENT IS NOT YET IN A POSITION TO MAKE A FINAL DECISION ON WHETHER TO CORPORATISE RTHK.
------0-------
ORDERS, EMPLOYMENT AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS FIGURES FOR DECEMBER RELEASED ******
THE VOLUME OF ORDERS-ON-HAND FOR THE 200 LARGEST MANUFACTURERS INCREASED BY 3% IN DECEMBER 1992 OVER ONE YEAR AGO, ACCORDING TO A MONTHLY SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
ORDERS POSITION TN THE FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS IMPROVED FAIRLY SIGNIFICANTLY. MODERATE INCREASES WERE ALSO IN THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS AND THE PLASTIC INDUSTRIES.
INDUSTRY RECORDED PRODUCTS
ON THE OTHER HAND, ORDERS IN THE TEXTILES INDUSTRY DECREASED MODERATELY AND IN THE WEARING APPAREL INDUSTRY DECREASED SLIGHTLY.
COMPARED WITH ONE MONTH AGO, ORDERS FOR THE MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED INCREASED BY 1% IN DECEMBER 1992. ORDERS IN THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRY INCREASED MODERATELY.
SOME INCREASES WERE ALSO RECORDED IN THE WEARING APPAREL AND TEXTILES INDUSTRIES. THE FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS AND THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES REPORTED LITTLE CHANGE TN ORDERS.
THE VOLUME OF ORDERS-ON-HAND IS MEASURED IN TERMS OF THE NUMBER OF MONTHS AND IT REFERS TO ORDERS OUTSTANDING AS AT THE END OF THE REFERENCE MONTH.
ON EMPLOYMENT, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONS ENGAGED BY THE 200 LARGEST MANUFACTURERS DECREASED BY 12% IN DECEMBER 1992 WHEN COMPARED WITH A YEAR EARLIER. THIS DECLINE IS IN LINE WITH THE RECENT TREND OF RELOCATING PRODUCTION PROCESSES TO SOUTH ('HINA.
COMPARED WITH A MONTH EARLIER, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONS ENGAGED BY THE MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED DECREASED BY 1% IN DECEMBER 1992.
IN DECEMBER 1992, PER CAPITA EARNINGS IN THE MANUFACTURI NG COMPANIES SURVEYED INCREASED B\ 24% IN MONEY TERMS WHEN COMPARED WITH DECEMBER 1991.
/THIS WAS ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
5
THIS WAS LARGELY DUE TO THE ISSUE OF YEAR-END BONUSES AND DOUBLE-PAY IN DECEMBER BEFORE THE LUNAR NEW YEAR, WHICH FELL IN JANUARY 1993. THE LAST LUNAR NEW YEAR FELL IN FEBRUARY 1992 AND HENCE MUCH FEWER MANUFACTURERS EFFECTED THESE PAYMENTS IN DECEMBER 1991.
COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING MONTH, PER CAPITA EARNINGS IN DECEMBER 1992 INCREASED BY 25% IN MONEY TERMS, MAINLY DUE TO THE ISSUE OF YEAR-END BONUSES AND DOUBLE-PAY.
IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONS ENGAGED IN THE COMPANIES SURVEYED DECREASED MODERATELY IN DECEMBER 1992 WHEN COMPARED WITH A YEAR BEFORE, AND DECREASED SLIGHTLY WHEN COMPARED WITH A MONTH BEFORE.
PER CAPITA EARNINGS IN THESE COMPANIES INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY OVER BOTH THE PRECEDING YEAR AND THE PRECEDING MONTH.
IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT FIGURES FOR THIS INDUSTRY COVER COMPANY EMPLOYEES ONLY; SITE WORKERS EMPLOYED BY LABOUR-ONLY SUB-CONTRACTORS ARE NOT INCLUDED.
IN THE SERVICES SECTOR, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONS ENGAGED IN THE COMPANIES SURVEYED INCREASED SLIGHTLY IN DECEMBER 1992 OVER A YEAR AGO, BUT REMAINED ABOUT THE SAME WHEN COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING MONTH.
PER CAPITA EARNINGS IN THESE COMPANIES SURVEYED INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY OVER THE PRECEDING YEAR. COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING MONTH, THERE WAS VERY SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE, PARTICULARLY IN THE BANKING SECTOR, DUE TO THE ISSUE OF YEAR-END BONUSES AND DOUBLE-PAY.
THE PERCENTAGE CHANGES IN ORDF.RS-ON-HAND, EMPLOYMENT AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS ARE SHOWN IN TABLES 1 TO 3.
THE SURVEY COVERED A PANEL OF THE 200 LARGEST MANUFACTURERS AND THE 50 LARGEST COMPANIES IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND SERVICE SECTORS, CHOSEN BY REFERENCE TO THEIR EMPLOYMENT SIZES IN SEPTEMBER 1986.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT THAT AS THE SURVEY SAMPLE COVERS ONLY THE LARGE COMPANIES, THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY NOT BE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE GENERAL SITUATION OF THE MANUFACTURING, CONSTRUCTION AND THE SERVICE SECTORS. NEVERTHELESS, THE SURVEY RESULTS SHOULD BE ABLE TO PROVIDE A USEFUL INDICATION OF THE DIRECTION OF CHANGE FOR MAKING A QUICK ASSESSMENT OF SHORT-TERM DEVELOPMENTS TN THOSE SECTORS.
THE SURVEY REPORT FOR DECEMBER 1992 IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AND \T THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES COUNTER, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, AT $1.50 A COPY.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY BE MADE TO THE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 805 6441.
/TABLE 1
6
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
TABLE 1 : ORDERS-ON-HAND IN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES
ORDERS-ON-HAND
AS AT THE CHANGE WHEN COMPARED WITH END OF
INDUSTRY DECEMBER 1992 NOV 92 DEC 91
— (%)
♦ (MONTHS) (%)
ALL MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED 4.50 + 1 + 3
— — — — — — —
WEARING APPAREL 4.74 + 1 -1
TEXTILES 2.19 + 1 -7
PLASTIC PRODUCTS 2.84 + 8 + 5
FABRICATED METAL 4.67 ♦ + 10
PRODUCTS + 7
ELECTRICAL AND 5.77 ♦
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
OTHERS 3.94 * *
* CHANGES WITHIN + /- 0.5%
TABLE 2 : EMPLOYMENT
PERSONS ENGAGED
AS AT THE END OF DECEMBER 1992
INDUSTRY/SERVICES
ALL MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED
FOOD AND DRINKS WEARING APPAREL TEXTILES PLASTIC PRODUCTS FABRICATED METAL
PRODUCTS
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
OTHERS
CONSTRUCTION #
SERVICES
BANKS
HOTELS
PUBLIC UTILITIES
OTHERS
CHANGE WHEN COMPARED WITH
NOV 92 DEC 91
(%) (%)
-1 -12
— — —
♦ + 4
-1 -17
-2 -21
-2 -9
-3 -11
-1 -16
♦ ♦
-1 -4
— —
♦ + 2
— — — —
* -1
♦ t
♦ + 3
♦ + 4
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
7
* CHANGES WITHIN +/- 0.5%
# PERSONS ENGAGED COVER COMPANY EMPLOYEES ONLY; SITE WORKERS EMPLOYED BY LABOUR-ONLY SUB-CONTRACTORS ARE NOT INCLUDED.
TABLE 3 : PER CAPITA EARNINGS
NOTE : OWING TO THE POSSIBLE INCLUSION OF IRREGULAR PAYMENTS (E.G. BACKPAY OR SPECIAL BONUS), "PER CAPITA EARNINGS” FOR A GIVEN MONTH MAY BE SUBJECT TO RATHER VOLATILE FLUCTUATIONS FROM TIME TO TIME. THEREFORE, IT IS PARTICULARLY ADVISABLE, IN STUDYING PER CAPITA EARNINGS STATISTICS, NOT TO TAKE A GIVEN MONTH’S DATA IN ISOLATION, BUT TO MAKE REFERENCE TO DATA OVER A LONGER PERIOD.
PER CAPITA EARNINGS
INDUSTRY/SERVICES AVERAGE AS IN DECEMBER 1992 CHANGE WHEN COMPARED WITH
NOV 92 DEC 91
(HK$) (%) (%)
ALL MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED 9,982 + 25 + 24
FOOD AND DRINKS 10,212 + 22 + 6
WEARING APPAREL 7,499 + 24 + 18
TEXTILES 8,426 + 20 + 17
PLASTIC PRODUCTS 8,74 1 + 10 + 1 1
FABRICATED METAL 11,723 + 53 + 31
PRODUCTS
ELECTRICAL AND 10,747 + 29 + 32
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
OTHERS 12,008 + 21 + 23
CONSTRUCTION # 12,005 + 11 + 12
SERVICES 18,655 + 49 + 12
BANKS 19,949 + 71 + 12
HOTELS 9,898 + 24 + 13
PUBLIC UTILITIES 17,135 + 35 + 12
OTHERS 21,009 + 49 + 12
/*PER CAPITA .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
8
# PER CAPITA EARNINGS COVER COMPANY EMPLOYEES ONLY; SITE WORKERS EMPLOYED BY LABOUR-ONLY SUB-CONTRACTORS ARE NOT INCLUDED.
NOTE TO TABLES 1 - 3 :
UNLIKE "ORDERS-ON-HAND” AND ’’PER CAPITA EARNINGS”, WHICH ARE AVERAGE FIGURES AMONGST THE COMPANIES SURVEYED, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONS ENGAGED BY THE COMPANIES SURVEYED IS NOT MEANINGFUL INFORMATION ON ITS OWN (BECAUSE THIS IS A PANEL SURVEY) AND IS THEREFORE NOT SHOWN.
------0-------
STATISTICS ON TRADE INVOLVING OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA, THIRD QUARTER 1992 *****
IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992, 54% OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA WERE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING; THE FIGURE WAS 76% FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS, AND 48% FOR RE-EXPORTS.
ON THE OTHER HAND, 71% OF HONG KONG’S IMPORTS FROM CHINA WERE RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, 81% OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN (EXCEPT TO CHINA) WERE PRODUCED THROUGH OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA.
THE CORRESPONDING PROPORTIONS IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1991 WERE 57% FOR TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA, 77% FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA, 49% FOR RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA, 68% FOR IMPORTS FROM CHINA AND 76% FOR REEXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN (EXCEPT TO CHINA).
IN JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 1992, 54% OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA WERE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING; THE FIGURE WAS 75% FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS, AND 48% FOR RE-EXPORTS.
ON THE OTHER HAND, 71% OF HONG KONG’S IMPORTS FROM CHINA WERE RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, 79% OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN (EXCEPT TO CHINA) WERE PRODUCED THROUGH OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA.
THE CORRESPONDING PROPORTIONS IN JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 1991 WERE 57% FOR TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA, 77%.FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA, 49% FOR RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA, 66% FOR IMPORTS FROM CHINA AND 73% FOR REEXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN (EXCEPT TO CHINA).
THE DECREASES IN THE PROPORTION OF EXPORTS TO CHINA FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING AS RECORDED IN JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 1992 REFLECT THAT HONG KONG’S EXPORTS FOR MEETING DOMESTIC DEMAND IN CHINA, VIZ. EXPORTS TO CHINA NOT DESTINED FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING, INCREASED AT A FASTER PACE THAN OUTWARD PROCESSING TRADE DURING THE PERIOD.
/THIS IS .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
9
THIS IS IN LINE WITH THE SUSTAINED INCREASE IN DOMESTIC DEMAND IN CHINA FOR IMPORTED GOODS.
TO PROVIDE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE NATURE AND IMPORTANCE OF OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA INITIATED BY HONG KONG FIRMS, THE CENSUS & STATISTICS DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN CONDUCTING A SAMPLE SURVEY AS FROM THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1988 TO DISTINGUISH HONG KONG’S EXPORTS TO CHINA INTO THOSE WHICH ARE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING AND THOSE WHICH ARE NOT.
THE SCOPE OF THE SURVEY HAS BEEN EXTENDED AS FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1989 SO AS TO SEGREGATE HONG KONG’S IMPORTS FROM CHINA INTO THOSE WHICH ARE RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING AND THOSE WHICH ARE NOT.
STARTING FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1991, THE SCOPE OF THE SURVEY HAS FURTHER BEEN EXTENDED SO AS TO SEGREGATE HONG KONG’S REEXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN (EXCEPT TO CHINA) WHICH ARE PRODUCED THROUGH OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA AND THOSE WHICH ARE NOT.
THE RESULTS FOR THE THIRD QUARTER AND .JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 1992 ARE NOW AVAILABLE.
IN VALUE TERMS, $37,536 MILLION OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1992 WERE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 20% OVER THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1991.
THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING GREW BY 10% TO $11,981 MILLION AND BY 26% TO $25,556 MILLION RESPECTIVELY.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM CHINA RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING INCREASED BY 25% TO $67,718 MILLION.
ON THE OTHER HAND, $87,138 MILLION OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN (EXCEPT TO (’HINA) WERE PRODUCED THROUGH OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 37%.
IN JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 1992, $103,398 MILLION OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA WERE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 25% OVER JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 1991.
THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING GREW BY 11% TO $32,303 MILLION AND 33% TO $71,094 MILLION RESPECTIVELY.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM CHINA RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING INCREASED BY 32% TO $181,110 MILLION.
ON THE OTHER HAND, $216,841 MILLION OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN (EXCEPT TO CHINA) WERE PRODUCED THROUGH OUTWARD PROCESSING TN CHINA, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 42%.
/FOR THE ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
10
FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE SURVEY, EXPORTS (DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS) TO CHINA FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING REFER TO THE EXPORTATION OF RAW MATERIALS OR SEMI-MANUFACTURES FROM OR THROUGH HONG KONG TO CHINA FOR PROCESSING WITH A CONTRACTUAL, ARRANGEMENT FOR SUBSEQUENT REIMPORTATION OF THE PROCESSED GOODS INTO HONG KONG.
IMPORTS FROM CHINA RELATED TO OUTWARD PROC ESS J NG REFER TO THE IMPORTATION OF PROCESSED GOODS FROM CHINA OF WHICH ALL OR PART OF THEIR RAW MATERIALS OR SEMI-MANUFACTURES HAVE BEEN UNDER CONTRACTUAL ARRANGEMENT EXPORTED FROM OR THROUGH HONG KONG TO CHINA FOR PROCESSING.
RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN (EXCEPT TO CHINA) PRODUCED THROUGH OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA REFER TO THOSE RE-EXPORTS OF WHICH ALL OR PART OF THEIR RAW MATERIALS OR SEMI-MANUFACTURES HAVE BEEN EXPORTED FROM OR THROUGH HONG KONG TO CHINA FOR PROCESSING WITH A CONTRACTUAL ARRANGEMENT FOR SUBSEQUENT RE-IMPORTATION OF THE PROCESSED GOODS INTO HONG KONG.
IN INTERPRETING THE STATISTICS, IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE VALUE AND PROPORTION OF IMPORTS FROM CHINA AND RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN (EXCEPT TO CHINA) INVOLVING OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA REFER TO THOSE OF THE ENTIRE GOODS INSTEAD OF JUST THE VALUE ADDED CONTRIBUTED BY OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA.
A SAMPLE OF TRADE DECLARATIONS IN RESPECT OF HONG KONG’S TRADE WITH CHINA (DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA, AND IMPORTS FROM CHINA) AS WELL AS HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN TO C’OUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA IS SELECTED FOR ENUMERATION TO OBTAIN THE REQUIRED INFORMATION FROM THE ESTABLISHMENTS CONCERNED.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT EXPLAINED THAT UNDER THE INTERNATIONALLY ACCEPTED SYSTEM OF RECORDING TRADE FLOWS, ALL MOVEMENTS OF GOODS ACROSS THE BORDER, FOR WHATEVER PURPOSE, ARE RECORDED AS EXTERNAL TRADE.
THUS THE MOVEMENTS OF GOODS ASSOCIATED WITH OUTWARD PROCESSING ARE CORRECTLY INCLUDED IN THE REGULAR TRADE STATIST H’S.
’’THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY, HOWEVER, FACILITATE A MORE INFORMED ANALYSIS OF THE NATURE OF HONG KONG-CHINA TRADE. IN THIS RESPECT, THE SURVEY RESULTS ARE A USEFUL SUPPLEMENT TO THE REGULAR TRADE STATISTICS,’’ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE ABOVE SURVEY RESULTS WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE DECEMBER 1992 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE".
THIS REPORT WILL BE ON SALE IN END FEBRUARY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AND AT THE PUBLICATIONS SALES COUNTER OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 Harbour road, wan chai at $52 a copy.
ENQUIRIES ON THE SURVEY RESULTS MAN BE DIRECTED TO SURVEYS AND SHIPPING STATISTICS SECTION OE THE CENSUS AND DEPARTMENT ON TEL 582 5037.
THE TRADE STATISTICS
/ESTIMATED VALUE .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
- 11 -
ESTIMATED VALUE AND JTOPCRITCN OF TRADE INVOLVING OUIKARD PROCESSING IN CHINA, 3^ _gJARTER_AND JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 1992________________________________________
Total trade value * :
Total exports to China
Domestic exports to China
Re-exports to China
Imparts fran China
Re-exports of China origin (except to China)
3rd 1922 Percentage change over 3rd qtr. 1991 Jan.-Sep. 1992 Percentage change over Jan.-Sep. 1991
(HKD Mn.) % (%) (HKD Mn.) (%)
69,377 +25.7 191,433 +31.2
15,738 +10.9 43,146 +14.2
53,639 +30.9 148,287 +37.1
95,178 +20.0 255,517 +23.0
107,630 +28.2 275,630 +31.2
Estimated value involving outward processing in China :
Total exports to China 37,536 +20.4 103,398 +25.1
Domestic exports to China 11,981 + 9.6 32,303 +10.7
Re-exports to China 25,556 +26.2 71,094 +33.0
Imports from China 67,718 +25.2 181,110 +32.0
Re-exports of China origin (except to China) 87,138 +37.2 216,844 +41.8
Estimated preportion involving outward processing in Oiina :
3rd 1992 (%) 3rd 1991 (%) Jan.-Sep. -19.92. w Jan.-Sep. —1991... (%)
Total exports to China 54.1 56.5 54.0 56.6
Domestic exports to China 76.1 77.0 74.9 77.3
Re-exports to China 47.6 49.4 47.9 49.4
Diparts fran China 71.1 68.2 , 70.9 66.0
Re-exports of China origin (except to China) 81.0 75.6 78.7 • 72.8
* The value excludes oemnodities and transactions not classified according to kind.
-----0------
/12 ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
CONTRACTS FOR REDUCING FLOODING RISK SIGNED
*****
THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) SIGNED TWO CONTRACTS TOTALLING ABOUT $24.3 MILLION FOR WORKS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FLOODING IN KOWLOON CITY AND TUEN MUN AREAS.
THE CONTRACTS WERE SIGNED AT A CEREMONY BY THE DEPARTMENT’S ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (PROJECTS AND DEVELOPMENT), MR CHUNG KWOK-LEUNG, AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CONTRACTORS, SEQUENCE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY AND CHEUNG KEE FUNG CHEUNG CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LIMITED.
ONE OF THE CONTRACTS, VALUED AT $21.15 MILLION, IS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF STORMWATER DRAINS IN KOWLOON CITY TO RELIEVE THE EXISTING OVERLOADED DRAINAGE SYSTEM IN THE AREA.
IT INVOLVES THE BUILDING OF ABOUT 240 METRES OF TWIN-PIPELINE AND 40 METRES OF TWIN-CELL BOX CULVERT ALONG LOK SIN ROAD FROM SA PO ROAD TO CHOI HUNG ROAD NULLAH.
MR CHUNG SAID THE STORMWATER DRAIN WOULD DIVERT THE STORMWATER COLLECTED IN KOWLOON WALLED CITY AND PART OF LOK FU ESTATE FROM THE EXISTING STORMWATER SYSTEM TO CHOI HUNG ROAD NULLAH.
THE WORKS WILL BEGIN TOMORROW (FRIDAY) FOR COMPLETION IN DECEMBER NEXT YEAR.
"WHEN THE WORKS ARE COMPLETED, THE RISK OF FLOODING IN KOWLOON CITY AREA WILL BE REDUCED," MR CHUNG SAID.
THE OTHER $3.15 MILI,I ON-CONTRACT IS FOR IMPROVEMENT WORKS IN CHING CHUNG KOON FLOOD WATER PUMPING STATION IN TUEN MUN.
THE WORKS INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A ONE-STOREY BUILDING TO HOUSE A STANDBY DIESEL GENERATOR WHICH WILL PROVIDE BACKUP ELECTRICAL POWER TO THE FLOOD WATER PUMPING STATION IN CASES OF POWER FAILURE DURING HEAVY RAINSTORM.
THE CONTRACT ALSO INVOLVES THE PROVISION OF A VEHICULAR ACCESS AND THE ASSOCIATED FOUNDATION AND DRAINAGE WORKS.
WORKS OF THIS CONTRACT BEGAN EARLIER THIS WEEK AND WILL BE COMPLETED IN MTD-JANUARY NEXT YEAR.
ENORMOUS OPPORTUNITIES FOR INSURANCE INDUSTRY
*****
THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY IN THE BURGEONING ECONOMIES OF THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION ARE ENORMOUS, AND BY TAKING ADVANTAGE OF HONG KONG’S SOPHISTICATED COMMON I CAT IONS, COMPANIES BASED HERE ARI' WELL PL AC ED TO SERVE A WIDER MARKET, THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR MONETARY AFFAIRS, MR TAM WING-PONG, SAID TONIGHT (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE ANNUAL DINNER OF THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF INSURERS, MR TAM SAID HE WAS PLEASED TO LEARN THAT THE FEDERATION HAD TAKEN AN ACTIVE ROLE IN ESTABLISHING CLOSE CONTACTS WITH CHINA.
/"THROUGH SUCH
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
13
"THROUGH SUCH CONTACTS WILL DEVELOP BETTER UNDERSTANDING, COOPERATION AND, ULTIMATELY, WIDER ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES," HE ADDED.
HE NOTED THAT THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY HAD FACED SEVERAL CHALLENGES IN RECENT YEARS, AS NEW AREAS OF RISK HAD EMERGED.
"IN PARTICULAR, THE RISE IN BOTH THE VOLUME AND THE AMOUNT OF CLAIMS FOR EMPLOYEES COMPENSATION HAS BROUGHT UNDERWRITING LOSSES FOR MANY COMPANIES IN THIS CATEGORY OF INSURANCE.
"COMPANIES BALANCE SHEETS HAVE ALSO BEEN AFFECTED BY THE ESCALATION OF MOTOR THEFTS AND THE CONSEQUENT INCREASES IN MOTOR INSURANCE PREMIA HAVE NOT BEEN WELCOMED BY THE GENERAL PUBLIC," HE SAID. •
"I CAN ASSURE YOU THAT THE POLICE CONSIDER THIS TO BE A PRIORITY ISSUE AND ARE DOING EVERYTHING IN THEIR POWER TO COMBAT THESE THEFTS.
"THE PROPOSED INCREASE IN THE MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR THE OFFENCE OF TAKING A CONVEYANCE WITHOUT AUTHORITY SHOULD SERVE’ AS A POWERFUL DETERRENT," MR TAM SAID.
THE POLICE AND OTHER PARTS OF THE GOVERNMENT ARE ALSO ACTIVE IN COMBATING THE (’ROSS-BORDER SMUGGLING OF CARS AND OTHER HIGH-VALUE GOODS AND TN SEEKING THE RETURN OF STOLEN PROPERTY, HE SAID.
"THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY IS ALSO PLAYING ITS PART BY ENCOURAGING POLICY HOLDERS TO TAKE GREATER PRECAUTIONS AGAINST THE THEFT OF THEIR VEHICLES," HE SAID.
ON A MORE POSITIVE NOTE, HE SAID GIVEN HONG KONG’S DEVELOPED STATUS AS A FINANCIAL CENTRE AND THE PREVAILING OPTIMISM OVER ITS ECONOMY, THE LOCAL INSURANCE INDUSTRY HAD GOOD PROSPECTS FOR GROWTH.
IN TERMS OF GROSS PREMIUM INCOME, GENERAL INSURANCE BUSINESS INCREASED BY 22 PER ('ENT FROM $9 BILLION IN 1990 TO $11 BILLION IN 1991 .
TURNING TO LIFE INSURANCE, MR TAM SAID THE MARKET HAD ALSO BEEN DEVELOPING RAPIDLY.
IN 1991, THE GROSS PREMIUM I N('OMF IN RESPECT OE LIFE J NSURANCE BUSINESS REACHED $7.3 BILLION.
"SUCH BUSINESS MAY EXPECT CONTINUED SUBSTANTIAL GROWTH, BEARING IN MIND THAT ONLY A SMALL SECTOR OF THE 1.0! AL POPULATION HAS YET TAKEN OUT LIFE INSURANCE AND THERE IS INCREASING AWARENESS OF THE NEED TO INSURE," HE SAID.
ON THE LONG-AWAITED OCCUPATIONAL RETIREMENT SCHEMES ORDINANCE, MR TAM SAID THERE WERE ESTIMATED TO BE SOME 22,000 RETIREMENT SCHEMES OF DIFFERENT TYPES, COVERING ABOUT ONE-I II I RD OF THE WORK FORCE.
/’’THE GOVERNMENT.......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
14
’’THE GOVERNMENT WOULD LIKE TO SIE EVERY WORKER PROVIDED WITH SOME FORM OF INCOME FOR HIS RETIREMENT, AND PROPOSALS FOR A COMMUNI IY-WIDE RETIREMENT PROTECTION SCHEME HAVE BEEN ISSUED FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION,” HE STRESSED.
HE BELIEVED THAT INSURANCE COMPANIES HAD A VALUABLE ROLE TO PLAY IN RETIREMENT SCHEME MANAGEMENT.
-----0-------
CONSULTATION ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW ENDS SOON
*****
THE PUBLIC ARE REMINDED THAT THE FOUR-MONTH CONSULTATION PERIOD ON THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW WILL END ON FEBRUARY 28.
PEOPLE WHO WISH TO SEND IN THEIR VIEWS ON THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER SHOULD DO SO BEFORE THE DEADLINE.
THE DOCUMENT COVERS THREE MAIN ASPECTS OF THE TAXI POLICY, NAMELY THE LICENSING SYSTEM, FARE POLICY AND QUALITY OF SERVICE.
"SO FAR, A TOTAL OF 95 WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS AND 287 TELEPHONE CALLS FROM VARIOUS SECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY HAVE BEEN RECEIVED,” A TAC SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THESE VIEWS AND THOSE COMING IN BY THE DEADLINE DATE WILL BE CONSIDERED CAREFULLY BEFORE THE TAC MAKES RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNMENT,” HE SAID.
COPIES OF THE CONSULTATIVE DOCUMENT AND A LEAFLET CONTAINING THE SALIENT POINTS OF THE PROPOSALS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION AT ALL DISTRICT OFFICES AND LICENSING OFFICES/PUBLIC VEHICLES SECTION OF THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT.
VIEWS SHOULD BE FORWARDED IN WRITING TO THE SECRETARY, TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE, SECOND FLOOR, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES (EAST WING). MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC CAN ALSO MAKE USE OF THE TAC HOTLINE (882 4411) TO EXPRESS THEIR OPINIONS.
-----0-^--
MEXI CO IN IT I ATES ANTI-DUMP I NG INVEST I GAT I ON ON BRASS PADLOCKS *****
THE MEXICAN MINISTRY OF TRADE AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT HAS INITIATED AN ANTI-DUMP!NG INVESTIGATION INTO IMPORTS OF BRASS PADLOCKS ORIGINATING FROM CHINA AND IMPORTED FROM HONG KONG, TAIWAN AND THE USA.
THE TRADE DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) CALLED ON LOCAL COMPANIES WHICH MAY HAVE A LEGITIMATE INTEREST TN THE RESULT OF THE INVESTIGATION TO MAKE REPRESENTATIONS TO THE MEXICAN AUTHORITIES.
/"REPORTS, DATA ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
15
"REPORTS, DATA AND ANY OTHER APPROPRIATE EVIDENCE CAN BE INCLUDED IN THE SUBMISSION AND SENT DIRECT TO THE DIRECCION GENERAL DE PRACTICAS COMMERCIALE INTERNACIONALES IN MEXICO," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.
THE PRODUCTS UNDER INVESTIGATION ARE CLASSIFIABLE UNDER TARIFF CLASSIFICATION NO. 8301.10.01 OF TARIFFS FOR GENERAL IMPORT DUTIES.
ACCORDING TO HONG KONG TRADE STATISTICS, HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORT TO MEXICO OF PADLOCKS (UNDER HARMONISED SYSTEM CODE NO. 83011000) ORIGINATING FROM CHINA AMOUNTED TO HK$6.3 MILLION IN 1991 AND HK$19.0 MILLION IN JANUARY-NOVEMBER 1992.
THE MEXICAN GOVERNMENT HAS IMITATED FIVE ANTI-DUMPING ACTIONS AGAINST PRODUCTS OF HONG KONG ORIGIN AND RE-EXPORT GOODS OF HONG KONG IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS.
PROVISIONAL ANTI-DUMPING DUTIES HAVE BEEN IMPOSED ON CANDLES, ELECTRIC CHRISTMAS LIGHT SERIES AND TABLEWARE/KITCHENWARE FROM CHINA.
A REVIEW ON THE FINAL RESOLUTION ON ANTI-DUMPING DUTIES ON IMPORTS OF DENIM FROM HONG KONG IS BEING CARRIED OUT WHILE INVESTIGATION AGAINST WOVEN FABRICS OF COTTON FROM HONG KONG WAS EVENTUALLY TERMINATED LAST DECEMBER.
THE TRADE DEPARTMENT REASSURED ALWAYS MONITORED CLOSELY DEVELOPMENTS AGAINST HONG KONG TO ENSURE THAT HONG UNFAIRLY TREATED.
THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY THAT IT REGARDING ANTI-DUMPING ACTIONS KONG COMPANIES WOULD NOT BE
------0--------
189 CAUGHT IN OPERATION AGAINST ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS * * * * *
A TERRITORY-WIDE OPERATION AGAINST ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION JOINTLY MOUNTED BY THE POLICE, THE LABOUR AND IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENTS RECENTLY HAS RESULTED IN THE WRISTS Ob IPERSONS.
THE OPERATION WAS PARI’ OF THE GOVERNMENT’S CONTINUOUS EFFORTS TO FLUSH OUT ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
OF THE ARRESTED PERSONS, 35 WERE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS CAUGHT AT THE BORDER. THEY HAVE BEEN SENT TO SAN UK LING FOR REPATRIATION.
THE REMAINING 15 1 HAVE BEEN RbllRRID To THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT AND THE POLICE FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION. THOSE FOUND TO BE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WILL BE REPATRIATED.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN REITERATED TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THERE WAS NO QUESTION OF ANY AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
"OUR LATEST OPERATION SHOULD DRIVE HOME THE POINT THAT THERE WILL BE NO CHANGE TO THIS POLICY. ANYONE FOOLISH ENOUGH TO BELIEVE OTHERWISE IS ONLY (HEATING HIMSELF," HE SAID.
/THE SPOKESMAN .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
16
THE SPOKESMAN SAID APART EROM CONTINUOUS (HECKS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY, THERE WAS NO LET-I'P IN \NT I - I 1.1 .EG AI IMMIGRATION EFFORTS AT THE BORDER.
”A HIGH STATE OF VIGILANCE WILL CONTINUE TO BE MAINTAINED BY THE POLICE AND THE SECURITY FORCES BOTH AT THE LAND AND SEA BORDERS,” HE SAID.
DURING THE JOINT OPERATION, WHICH BEGAN AT 5 AM (WEDNESDAY) AND ENDED AT 5 AM TODAY, THE POLICE HAD STEPPED IDENTIFICATION SPOT ( IIF( KS IN PUBLK PLACES \NI) CARRIED OUT
YESTERDAY
UP THEIR
CHECKS AT
SUSPICIOUS LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT TH I- TERRITORY.
AS A RESULT, A TOTAL OF 8,190 PERSONS AND 1,065 VEHICLES WERE STOPPED FOR IDENTlI l( AT I ON CHECKS.
ON THE LABOUR FRONT, INSPECTORS OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT VISITED 2,491 ESTABLISHMENTS TO WEED OUT ANY ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WHO MAY BE WORKING, AND TO CHECK THAT EMPLOYERS FULFIL THEIR LEGAL OBLIGATION OF KEEPING PROPER RECORDS Ol THEIR EMPLOYEES.
A TOTAL OF 9,012 EMPLOYEES HAD THEIR PROOF OF IDENTITY CHECKED DURING THE OPERATION.
TWELVE ESTABLISHMENTS WERE F()l ND NOT \BI.E TO PROVIDE FOR INSPECTION A RECORD OF EMPLOYEES.
THE SPOKESMAN REMINDED EMPLOYERS THAT THEY COULD BE FINED UP TO $50,000 AND JAILED FOR UP TO A YEAR IF THEY WERF FOUND TO BE E M P LO YING I L I. E G A I. IMMIGRANTS.
------------------------0-------- CHINESE HARBOUR SUPER INTENDENCY VISIT A SUCCESS *****
THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR TON\ MILLER, TODA^ (THURSDAY) DESCRIBED AS ’’MOST SUCCESSFUL" A FOUR-DAY VISIT TO THE MARINE DEPARTMENT BY A DELEGATION FROM THE BUREAU OF HARBOUR SUPER INTENDENCY OF CHINA AND CHINA MARITIME SEARCH AND RESCUE CENTRE.
THE EIGHT-MEMBER DELEGATION IS HEADED BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE BUREAU OF HARBOUR SUPERINTENDENCE IN BEIJING, CAPTAIN LIN YUNAI.
MR MILLER SAID: ’’THIS VISIT CONFIRMS THE EXCELLENT AND LONG-STANDING CO-OPERATION BETWEEN 'HINA AND HONG KONG ON MARITIME MATTERS.
"DURING Till- LAST FOUR DAYS, PROFESSIONAL OFFICERS HAVE HAD A THOROUGH EXCHANGE OF VIEWS ON PRACTICAL PORT OPERATIONS AND MARITIME SAFETY MATTERS."
THE CHINESE DELEGATION HAD A FIRST-HAND LOOK AT THE PLANS AND ACTIVITIES OF THE MARINE DEPARTMENT.
/VIEWS WERE ........
17
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
VIEWS WERE EXCHANGED AND EXPERIENCE SHARED ON A VARIETY OF MARITIME MATTERS INCLUDING:
* OPERATION OF SMALL SHIPS TRADING BETWEEN HONG KONG AND THE CHINA (’OAST INCLUDING THE PEARL RIVER DELTA AND GUANGDONG;
♦ CO-ORDINATION OF SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS IN THE SOUTH CHINA SEA AND THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NEW GLOBAL MARITIME DISTRESS AND SAFETY SYSTEM; AND
* TRAINING AND QUALIFICATION OF SENIOR MERCHANT NAVY OFFICERS TRAINED IN CHINA TO MAN OCEAN-GOING SHIPS REGISTERED IN HONG KONG.
ACCOMPANIED BY MR MILLER, THE DELEGATION ALSO VISITED THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL’S SEAMEN’S TRAINING CENTRE IN TAI LAM CHUNG, NEW TERRITORIES AND WENT ON HELICOPTER AND HARBOUR TOURS TO VIEW PORT FACILITIES AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS.
THE DELEGATION ALSO INCLUDES OFFICIALS FROM THE BUREAU OF HARBOUR SUPERINTENDENCY IN GUANGDONG AND GUANGXI.
------0-------
TROPICAL CYCLONE SIGNALS NOT SHOWN AT TAMAR *****
THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT DAY AND NIGHT SIGNALS WOULD NO LONGER BE DISPLAYED AT THE TROPICAL CYCLONE AND STRONG MONSOON WARNING SIGNAL STATION AT HMS TAMAR WITH EFFECT FROM MARCH 1.
HOWEVER, VISUAL SIGNALS WILL CONTINUE TO BE DISPLAYED AT THE REMAINING 11 SIGNAL STATIONS AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
ABERDEEN MARINE OFFICE,
CHEUNG CHAU AERONAUTICAL METEOROLOGICAL STATION, LAU FAU SHAN POLICE STATION, SAI KUNG POLICE STATION, SHA TAU KOK SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS, SHAU KEI WAN MARINE OFFICE, STANLEY POLICE STATION, TAI LAM SMALL BOAT UNIT, TAI O POLICE STATION, TAI PO KAU MARINE POLICE OPERATIONAL RASE, AND YAU MA TEI PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREA.
AS SIGNAL STATIONS CONVEY LITTLE INFORMATION AND ARE OFTEN OBSCURED BY HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS OR DURING ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS, RESIDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO LISTEN TO RADIO OR WATCH TELEVISION FOR DETAILED INFORMATION ON TROPICAL CYCLONES AND STRONG MONSOON.
INFORMATION ON TROPICAL CYCLONES AND SIGNAL STATUS CAN ALSO BE OBTAINED FROM THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION HEADQUARTERS ON TEL 835 1473.
/18.........
THURSDXY, FEBRF \R\ 18, 1993
- 18
CAREER EXPO *93 WELL RECEIVED
******
TENS OF THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS, YOUNG PEOPLE AND WORKING ADULTS FLOCKED TO THE EDUCATION AND CAREERS EXPO ’93 TODAY (THURSDAY) TO SEE FOR THEMSELVES LATEST INFORMATION ON OPPORTl NJTIFS FOR FURTHER STUDY AND ON CAREER CHOICES.
DURING THE VISIT TO VARIOUS EDUCATION AND CAREERS BOOTHS, THEY OBTAINED DETAILS OF TRAINING COURSES AND JOBS.
THE ACTIVITY, ORGANISED .JOINTLY BY THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (TDC) AND THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, WAS OFFICIALLY OPENED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS INCLUDED THE TDC CHAIRMAN, DR VICTOR FUNG AND THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN.
AFTER THE OPENING CEREMONY, MR PATTEN, ACCOMPANIED BY DR FUNG AND MR CHAN, VISITED SOME OF THE EXHIBITION BOOTHS AND CHATTED TO EXHIBITORS.
THE FOUR-DAY EXPO, FEATURING MORE THAN 180 EXHIBITORS FROM A
WIDE RANGE OF TRADES, GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AS WELL AS LOCAL AND OVERSEAS EDUCATIONAL AND TRAINING
INSTITUTES, IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FROM 9.30 AM TO 7 PM UNTIL SUNDAY (FEBRUARY 21) ON LEVEL 7 OF THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE. ADMISSION IS FREE.
------0-------
SEMINAR ON BUILDING SAFETY * * * *
RESIDENTS IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT ARE INVITED TO ATTEND A SEMINAR ON STRUCTURAL SAFETY OF BUILDINGS TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
THE SEMINAR, ORGANISED BY THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE, WILL ALSO BE OPEN TO OFFICE-BEARERS OF ALL MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS. ADMISSION IS FREE.
A BUILDING SURVEYOR FROM THE DANGEROUS BUILDINGS SECTION OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, MR IP KWONG-CH1, WILL BRIEF PARTICIPANTS ON SURVEYING DEFECTS IN BUILDINGS.
HE WILL ALSO EXPLAIN THE LEGAL PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE MAINTENANCE AND CLOSURE ORDERS OF BUILDINGS.
IN PARTICULAR, MR IP WILL TALK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER MAINTENANCE OF, AND REPAIRS TO, BUILDINGS AND THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF LANDLORDS AND TENANTS IN THIS RESPECT.
AN OFFICIAL FROM THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION, MRS CHAN WONG YUK-SEE, WILL SPEAK ON THE PREVENTION OF BRIBERY ORDINANCE RELATING TO MAC AND OC OPERATIONS.
/SHE WILL ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
19
SHE WILL ALSO EXPLAIN HOW THE ORDINANCE APPLIES TO RECONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF BUILDINGS.
THE SEMINAR WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM IN THE DISTRICT OFFICE’S CONFERENCE ROOM, SECOND FLOOR, MEI FUNG COURT, 7-11 NAM NING STREET, ABERDEEN CENTRE.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SEMINAR.
----------0-------- LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON THURSDAY (FEBRUARY 18) UP TO 4.30 PM *****
1. WRITING FINAL REPORT.
2. VISIT TO POSSIBLE SITES TO BE USED AS UPPER-LEVEL POLICE COMMAND AND OBSERVATION POSTS IN LAN KWAI FONG IN FUTURE.
3. CORRESPONDENCE.
-----0-------
MINI-EXHIBITION TO PROMOTE DISABLED EMPLOYMENT
*****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL MOUNT A THREE-DAY EXHIBITION FROM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT WHAMPOA GARDEN IN HUNG HOM AS PART OF ITS CONTINUOUS EFFORTS TO PROMOTE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DISABLED.
THE EXHIBITION WILL PRESENT THE DEPARTMENT’S FREE PLACEMENT SERVICE FOR THE DISABLED AND FREE RECRUITMENT SERVICE FOR EMPLOYERS, ITS PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND FUTURE PLANS.
ON DISPLAY WILL BE PHOTOGRAPHS SHOWING DIABLED EMPLOYEES BEING ENGAGED IN DIFFERENT KINDS OF JOBS.
’’THE EVENT AIMS TO ENHANCE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE WORKING ABILITIES OF THE DISABLED AND TO ENCOURAGE EMPLOYERS TO HIRE MORE DISABLED WORKERS,” SENIOR LABOUR OFFICER (SELECTIVE PLACEMENT), MR TANG KONG-KIN, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
"LABOUR DEPARTMENT OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ANSWER ENQUIRIES FROM VISITORS AND TO DISTRIBUTE PAMPHLETS,” HE SAID.
/•’THEY WILL ... . . .
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
20
’’THEY WILL ALSO RECORD VACANCY INFORMATION FROM INTERESTED EMPLOYERS AND PERSONAL PARTICULARS OF DISABLED JOB-SEEKERS FOR FURTHER CONTACTS,” MR TANG ADDED.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPEN DAILY FROM 11 AM TO 6 PM UNTIL SUNDAY (FEBRUARY 21) AT THE FIRST BASEMENT, BAUHINIA PLAZA, SITE 11, WHAMPOA GARDEN.
--------0--------
157 RETURN TO VIETNAM
*****
A GROUP OF 157 VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS TODAY (THURSDAY) RETURNED TO VIETNAM UNDER THE UNHCR’S VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME.
COMPRISING 52 MEN, 44 WOMEN, 37 BOYS AND 24 GIRLS, THEY WERE THE 143RD BATCH TO GO BACK UNDER THE PROGRAMME.
THE GROUP BROUGHT TO 533 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS WHO HAVE RETURNED VOLUNTARILY THIS YEAR, AND TO 26,845 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF RETURNEES SINCE THE PROGRAMME STARTED IN MARCH 1989.
--------0------------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWT
4,950
-2,800
2,150
NIL
-85
2,065
114.6 *+0.2* 18.2.93
/HONG KONG ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1993
21
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.01 PCT 15 MONTHS 24 05 5.50 102.28 3.64
1 MONTH 3.02 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 5.50 100.92 3.77
3 MONTHS 3.03 PCT 21 MONTHS 241 1 4.375 101.08 4.01
6 MONTHS 3.13 PCT 24 MONTHS 2502 1.625 101.09 4.22
12 MONTHS 3.44 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 6,886 MN
CLOSED 18 FEBRUARY 1993
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL:
RESOLUTION PASSED TO AMEND STANDING ORDERS OF LEGCO ........... 1
JOHN SWAINE ELECTED AS LEGCO PRESIDENT ........................ 1
CONSTRUCTION ADVISORY BOARD BEING SET UP ....................... 2
MORE '93 PROOF COIN SETS TO GO ON SALE ......................... 4
COLLEGES OF EDUCATION WILL KEEP HIGH STANDARD ................... 5
INSURANCE REGULATORY SYSTEM EXPLAINED .......................... 5
BN(O) REGISTRATION REMINDED .................................... 6
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION NEEDED TO SAFEGUARD PUBLIC HEALTH ... 7
LATEST POPULATION FIGURE RELEASED ............................... 8
RECLAMATION WORKS IN TUEN MUN PROPOSED .......................... 9
REPLACEMENT OF PIPELINE IN HO CHUNG AUTHORISED ................. 10
TENDERS INVITED FOR WONG TAI SIN PARK .......................... 10
TRAVEL CHARACTERISTICS SURVEY ................................... H
TUEN MUN LANDSCAPING WORKS TO START IN MAY ..................... 12
ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ORDER ON OSCILLATING FANS REVOKED ............ 13
PEDESTRIAN FOOTBRIDGE FOR HING TIN ESTATE ...................... 13
2.3 MILLION PEOPLE LIVING IN NEW TOWNS ......................... 14
/TEACHER ASSESSMENT ___
TEACHER ASSESSMENT FORMS AVAILABLE AT CAREER EXPO '93 .......... 15
BUILDING SAFETY EXHIBITION ..................................... 15
REHABILITATION CEREMONY FOR 468-YEAR-OLD ANCESTRAL HALL ........ 16
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN YUEN LONG ENTERS NEW ERA .............. 17
ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE TO MEET ON MONDAY .................. 17
ILLEGAL STRUCTURES IN WAN CHAI TO BE CLOSED .................... 18
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY .......................................... 18
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 18
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
RESOLUTION PASSED TO AMEND STANDING ORDERS OF LEGCO
******
A RESOLUTION THAT PROPOSES A SERIES OF AMENDMENTS TO THE STANDING ORDERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IS PASSED IN THE COUNCIL TODAY (FRIDAY).
MOVING THE RESOLUTION ON AMENDMENTS TO THE STANDING ORDERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON HAMISH MACLEOD,SAID THE AMENDMENTS WERE INTENDED TO BRING THE STANDING ORDERS IN LINE WITH THE AMENDMENTS TO THE ROYAL INSTRUCTIONS, WHICH HAD JUST BEEN BROUGHT INTO FORCE, TO PROVIDE THE FRAMEWORK FOR THE GOVERNOR TO HAND OVER THE PRESIDENCY OF THE COUNCIL TO AN ELECTED PRESIDENT.
’’WITHIN THIS FRAMEWORK, THE ELECTION OF THE FIRST ELECTED PRESIDENT HAS JUST BEEN HELD IN THIS COUNCIL,” HE SAID.
MR MACLEOD SAID THE ADMINISTRATION WAS TAKING STEPS TO AMEND THE ROYAL INSTRUCTIONS FURTHER TO ACCOMMODATE THE STAND-IN ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE PRESIDENT AS CONTEMPLATED BY MEMBERS.
’’THE ADMINISTRATION WILL CONSULT MEMBERS ON THE CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENTS TO THE STANDING ORDERS IN DUE COURSE,” HE ADDED.
THE RESOLUTION, IN DRAFT, WAS CONSIDERED BY THE HOUSE COMMITTEE AT ITS MEETING ON JANUARY 29 AND THE PRESENT VERSION HAD INCORPORATED THE CHANGES SUGGESTED in MEMBERS AT THAT MEETING.
--------0
JOHN SWA I NE ELECTED ♦ * *
AS LEGCO PRESIDENT * *
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (FRIDAY) ELECTED THE HON JOHN SWATNE AS THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL.
THE HON MRS ELSIE TU WAS ELECTED THE PRESIDENT’S DEPUTY.
THE ELECTION FOLLOWS THE ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE GOVERNOR IN HIS POLICY SPEECH THAT HE WISHED TO HAND OVER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF PRESIDING OVER THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TO A PRESIDENT ELECTED FROM AMONG MEMBERS.
--------0------------
/2 .........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
- 2
CONSTRUCTION ADVISORY BOARD BEING SET UP * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT IS ESTABLISHING THE CONSTRUCTION ADVISORY BOARD (CAB) TO PROVIDE A MORE EFFECTIVE AND CO-ORDINATED CONSULTATION AND COMMUNICATION CHANNEL BETWEEN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AND THE GOVERNMENT.
THE NON-STATUTORY BOARD WILL BE CHAIRED INITIALLY BY THE SECRETARY FOR WORKS WITH EIGHT OFFICIAL MEMBERS AND 16 UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS DRAWN FROM A WIDE CROSS-SECTION OF THE INDUSTRY INCLUDING CONTRACTORS, CONSULTANTS, REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS, PRIVATE CORPORATIONS, ACADEMICS AND PROFESSIONAL INSTITUTION AND TRAINING AUTHORITIES.
UNDER THE PROPOSED TERMS OF REFERENCE, THE BOARD WILL BE TASKED TO KEEP UNDER REVIEW AND TO ADVISE THE GOVERNMENT ON ISSUES RELATING TO THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.
THESE INCLUDE PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE INDUSTRY RESOURCE CAPACITY, SELF-REGULATION, CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS, QUALITY MANAGEMENT, EDUCATION AND TRAINING.
A WORKS BRANCH SPOKESMAN SAID A PRELIMINARY MEETING WOULD BE HELD SOON, PROBABLY IN MARCH, WITH THE REPRESENTATIVE BODIES TO CONFIRM THE MEMBERSHIP AND THE TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE BOARD AND TO DETERMINE THE PRIORITY OF WORK FOR SUBSEQUENT MEETINGS.
REPRESENTATIVE BODIES HAVE BEEN INVITED TO NOMINATE A PANEL OF PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS FROM WHICH THE SECRETARY FOR WORKS WILL RECOMMEND TO THE GOVERNOR INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS FOR UP TO THREE YEARS.
"CAB WILL BE WELL PLACED TO IDENTIFY PROBLEMS ARISING FROM BOTH THE PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTORS, AND TO SUGGEST SOLUTIONS WHICH WILL CARRY WEIGHT IN SHAPING POLICY.
"IT WILL ALSO HELP IN PROMOTING UNDERSTANDING OF GOVERNMENT’S CONSTRUCTION POLICIES AMONG THE PUBLIC' AND THE INDUSTRY," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE SAID TO ENSURE COMPREHENSIVE INPUT ON CONSTRUCTION ISSUES, CAB WOULD MAINTAIN CLOSE CONSULTATION AND CO-ORDINATION WITH RELATED ADVISORY COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES.
"IT WILL SERVE AS AN UMBRELLA ORGANISATION CO-ORDINATING SUCH COMMITTEES AND ONE OF ITS FIRST ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS WILL BE TO REVIEW THESE COMMITTEES AND ADVISE ON THEIR FUTURE ROLE, POSSIBLY AS SUBCOMMITTEES TO CAB," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
THE COMPOSITION OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE BOARD IS AS FOLLOWS:
* THREE REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE HONG KONG CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION,
/* ONE REPRESENTATIVE ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
3
* ONE REPRESENTATIVE EACH FROM:
HONG KONG ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION;
ASSOCIATION OF CONSULTING ENGINEERS HK;
HK INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERS
HK INSTITUTE OF SURVEYORS
HK INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS;
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS ASSOCIATION;
VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL
CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY
MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION
PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY
TERTIARY ACADEMIC INSTITUTION (UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG FOR INITIAL THREE YEARS)
TWO MEMBERS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR WILL BE INVITED FROM LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, ONE FROM THE LEGCO LANDS AND WORKS PANEL AND THE OTHER FROM THE LABOUR FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCY.
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS WILL BE
* COMMISSIONER OF INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION
* THREE WORKS DEPARTMENTS’ DIRECTORS
* DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS
* DIRECTOR OF HOUSING
* COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR
* DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION.
------0-------
/A .........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
MORE *93 PROOF COIN SETS TO GO ON SALE * * * * *
THE HONG KONG 1993 PROOF AND BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED COIN COLLECTIONS WHICH WERE PUT ON SALE TO THE PUBLIC FROM MONDAY (FEBRUARY 15) HAVE PROVED TO BE VERY POPULAR.
"ALL OF THE PROOF COIN SETS, PRICED AT $380 EACH, THAT HAVE BEEN DELIVERED TO HONG KONG AND DISTRIBUTED BY HONGKONGBANK AND THE OVERSEAS TRUST BANK HAVE BEEN SOLD,” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
BECAUSE OF THE HEAVY DEMAND, THE OFFICE HAS ARRANGED FOR AN ADDITIONAL 1,000 SETS OF PROOF COINS TO BE ALLOCATED TO HONG KONG.
HOWEVER, THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT THE WORLDWIDE LIMIT REMAINED AT 30,000 SETS.
HE SAID: "THE FINAL CONSIGNMENT Ol A SMALL QUANTITY OF THE PROOF COIN SETS, BEING THE BALANCE OF THE 26,000 SETS ALLOCATED TO HONG KONG, WILL ARRIVE SHORTLY AND BE PUT ON SALE FROM NEXT WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY 24).”
THESE PROOF COIN SETS WILL BE AVAILABLE XT HONGKONGBANK HEAD OFFICE AT 1 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL AND THE EIGHT OVERSEAS TRUST RANK BRANCHES AT GLOUCESTER ROAD; CENTRAL; NORTH POINT (379 - 381 KING’S ROAD); HUNG HOM; MONG KOK; TSUEN WAN; YUEN LONG AND SHA TIN (TA I WAT).
”IN VIEW OF THE KEEN DEMAND, SALES OF THE PROOF COIN COLLECTION WILL BE RESTRICTED TO TWO SETS PER PERSON ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"A SMALL NUMBER OF THE HONG KONG 1993 BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED COIN SETS, AT $128 EACH, ARE STILL AVAILABLE' XT THE TWO BANKS,” HE ADDED.
--------0------------
/5 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
COLLEGES OF EDUCATION WILL KEEP HIGH STANDARD
*****
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES REGARDING TODAY’S PETITION ON ENTRY REQUIREMENTS BY STUDENTS OF THE COLLEGES OF EDUCATION, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID:
"THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAS NOTED THE CONCERN EXPRESSED BY STUDENTS OF THE COLLEGES OF EDUCATION. THE DEPARTMENT WISHES TO REITERATE THAT IT HAS NO INTENTION OF LOWERING THE STANDARD REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION, WHICH IS MONITORED BY THE COLLEGES JOINT SELECTION BOARD.
"THE PRESENT REVIEW, WHICH IS CONTINUING, AIMS TO PROVIDE FLEXIBILITY IN CONSIDERING ENTRY REQUIREMENTS. STUDENTS SHOULD REST ASSURED THAT THE COLLEGES OF EDUCATION WILL MAINTAIN THE USUAL HIGH QUALITY OF TRAINING. IN ANY CASE, STUDENTS UNDER TRAINING STILL HAVE TO SATISFY ALL THE COURSE REQUIREMENTS DURING THEIR TRAINING PERIOD AT THE COLLEGES BEFORE THEY CAN BE ALLOWED TO GRADUATE AND BECOME QUALIFIED TEACHERS.”
- 0 -
INSURANCE REGULATORY SYSTEM EXPLAINED
******
THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THE REGULATORY SYSTEM OPERATED BY THE OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INSURANCE IS TO ENSURE THAT INSURERS REMAIN FINANCIALLY STABLE AND MANAGED BY FIT AND PROPER PERSONS, THE COMMISSIONER OF INSURANCE, MR NIGEL SHIPMAN^SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE COMMISSIONER OF INSURANCE IS SPECIFICALLY DEBARRED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANIES ORDINANCE FROM REQUIRING AN INSURER TO AMEND EITHER THE WORDING OF ANY POLICY OR CLASS OF POLICIES; OR THE PREMIUMS PAYABLE IN RESPECT OF ANY POLICY OR CLASS OF POLICIES.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER HIS MEETING WITH LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBER, DR HUANG CHEN-YA TO DISCUSS ISSUES RELATING TO MOTOR INSURANCE, MR SHIPMAN SAID THESE PROVISIONS WERE APPROVED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN JULY 1992.
THE COMMISSIONER WAS NOT ABLE, FOR EXAMPLE, TO REQUIRE AN INSURER TO ALTER THE PROPOSED PREMIUM RATES.
"NOR CAN HE PREVENT AN INSURER FROM CANCELLING OR VARYING A MOTOR INSURANCE POLICY MID-TERM, IF THE INSURER IS PERMITTED TO DO SO BY THE TERMS OF THE POLICY.
"THE GOVERNMENT HAS TAKEN THE VIEW THAT CONSUMER PROTECTION IN RESPECT OF PREMIUM RATES IS BEST LEFT TO MARKET FORCES," MR SHIPMAN SAID.
/THERE aRE
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
THERE ARE 86 INSURERS AUTHORISED TO CARRY ON MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE BUSINESS IN HONG KONG, AMONG WHOM 67 ARE MEMBERS OF THE ACCIDENT INSURANCE ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG ("AIA").
THE PREMIUM RATES RECOMMENDED BY THE AIA PROVIDE ITS MEMBERS WITH USEFUL INFORMATION ON THE RISK INVOLVED IN INSURING EACH TYPE OF VEHICLE AND THE LEVEL OF PREMIUMS NECESSARY TO COVER THAT RISK, BUT IN PRACTICE MANY AIA MEMBERS VARY THE RECOMMENDED RATES.
HE ADVISED MOTORISTS TO COMPARE THE POLICIES AND TERMS OFFERED BY DIFFERENT MOTOR VEHICLE INSURERS BEFORE CHOOSING THE ONE THAT WAS BEST SUITED TO THEIR NEEDS.
"THERE ARE ALSO MANY INSURANCE BROKERS AND MOTORISTS ASSOCIATIONS WHO CAN PROVIDE THEM WITH ADVICE," HE ADDED.
"THERE IS THUS AMPLE COMPETITION WITHIN THE MOTOR INSURANCE MARKET IN HONG KONG. GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION TO CONTROL PREMIUM RATES MAY NOT BE IN THE MOTORISTS’ INTERESTS, IF MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE BECAME HARDER TO OBTAIN AS A RESULT," MR SHIPMAN SAID.
REGARDING THE PRACTICE OF IMPOSING MID-TERM CANCELLATIONS OR UNFAVOURABLE VARIATIONS ON MOTOR INSURANCE POLICIES, MR SHIPMAN NOTED THAT THE GENREAL INSURANCE COUNCIL AND THE AIA HAD MADE CLEAR THAT THEY DID NOT ENDORSE SUCH PRACTICES.
MR SHIPMAN SAID HE AGREED WITH THE INSURERS’ REPRESENTATIVE BODIES THAT THIS PRACTICE COULD HAVE A NEGATIVE IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY’S IMAGE.
"THE COST OF MOTOR INSURANCE POLICIES PROVIDING COVERAGE FOR THEFT IS HIGH BECAUSE THE RISK OF THEFT IS HIGH, PARTICULARLY FOR CERTAIN MODELS OF CAR.
"THE PREVENTION AND DETECTION OF VEHICLE THEFT ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE POLICE, WHO ARE ENDEAVOURING TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM," MR SHIPMAN ADDED.
BN(O) REGISTRATION REMINDED *****
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT REMINDED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT HONG KONG BRITISH DEPENDENT TERRITORIES CITIZENS (BDTCS) WHO WISH TO CONTINUE TO TRAVEL ON BRITISH PASSPORTS BEYOND 1997 MUST OBTAIN OR BE INCLUDED IN BRITISH NATIONAL (OVERSEAS) (BN(O)) PASSPORTS BEFORE JULY 1, 1997.
APPLICATIONS MAY BE MADE EITHER IN PERSON OR BY POST.
/THE SPOKESMAN
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
7
THE SPOKESMAN SAID AS AGREED UNDER THE MEMORANDUM ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOINT DECLARATION, BDTCS BY VIRTUE OF A CONNECTION WITH HONG KONG, SUCH AS BY BIRTH, NATURALISATION OR REGISTRATION IN HONG KONG WOULD CEASE TO BE SUCH CITIZENS ON JULY 1, 1997.
THEREFORE BDTC PASSPORTS ARE VALID ONLY UP TO JUNE 30, 1997.
HOWEVER, THEY ARE ELIGIBLE FOR BN(O) PASSPORTS WHICH ARE VALID FOR 10 YEARS AND CAN BE RENEWED AFTER 1997.
SINCE ITS INTRODUCTION IN 1987, OVER 435,000 BN(O) PASSPORTS HAVE BEEN ISSUED.
IT IS ESTIMATED THAT ABOUT 3.3 MILLION HONG KONG BDTCS WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR BN(O) PASSPORTS BEFORE JULY 1997. THERE WOULD BE SIGNIFICANT ADMINISTRATIVE DIFFICULTIES IF PEOPLE LEAVE IT TOO LATE.
IN ORDER TO AVOID A LAST MINUTE RUSH IN 1996/97, THE DEPARTMENT WILL SHORTLY BE STEPPING UP ITS EFFORTS, THROUGH MEDIA PUBLICITY, TO INCREASE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE NEED TO APPLY FOR A BN(O) PASSPORT IN GOOD TIME.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID ACQUISITION OF THE BN(O) STATUS WOULD BE ENTIRELY VOLUNTARY.
"ONLY THOSE WHO WISH TO CONTINUE THE FACILITY OF BRITISH PASSPORT BEYOND 1997 NEED TO TAKE UP A BN(O) PASSPORT.
"OTHERS WHO ALREADY HAVE A BN(O) PASSPORT NEED NOT OF COURSE APPLY AGAIN," HE SAID.
--------0-----------
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION NEEDED TO SAFEGUARD PUBLIC HEALTH
*****
AN URBAN COUNCILLOR TODAY (FRIDAY) CALLED ON MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO WORK TOGETHER WITH THE GOVERNMENT TO BETTER PROMOTE FOOD HYGIENE FOR THE SAKE OF PUBLIC HEALTH.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF A FOOD HYGIENE EXHIBITION ENTITLED "KNOW MORE ABOUT FOOD SAFETY", THE VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL’S PUBLIC HEALTH SELECT COMMITTEE, PROFESSOR LEUNG PING-CHUNG, SAID FOOD SAFETY WAS THE COMMON GOAL OF BOTH THE GOVERNMENT AND THE PUBLIC AND IT COULD NOT BE ACHIEVED BY THE GOVERNMENT HEALTH AUTHORITIES ALONE.
"THE URBAN COUNCIL, REGIONAL COUNCIL AND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAVE ALL ALONG COMMITTED TO THE PROMOTION OF FOOD SAFETY AND HYGIENE.
/"AS FA:;
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
8
"AS FAR AS THE CONTROL OF THE HYGIENE CONDITION OF FOOD OUTLETS IS CONCERNED, THE URBAN COUNCIL HAS A FULL SET OF LICENSING PROCEDURES THAT REQUIRES ALL THE FOOD OUTLETS TO HAVE A SET OF ACCEPTABLE HYGIENE EQUIPMENT BEFORE THEY ARE GIVEN A LICENCE.
"EVEN AFTER THE FOOD OUTLETS ARE GIVEN A LICENCE, HEALTH INSPECTORS ARE DEPLOYED TO INSPECT THEIR HYGIENE CONDITION TO ENSURE THAT THE REGULATIONS AND LICENSING CONDITIONS ARE STRICTLY OBSERVED," PROFESSOR LEUNG SAID.
HE SAID A NEW PENALTY POINT SYSTEM WOULD BE IMPOSED ON THE LAW-BREAKING FOOD OUTLETS AND HE HOPED THAT THE HYGIENE STANDARD OF FOOD OUTLETS COULD THEN BE RAISED.
REGARDING THE MONITORING OF FOOD SAFETY, HE SAID THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAD A SYSTEMATIC PROCEDURE TO MONITOR FOOD SAFETY.
UNDER THE PROCEDURE, ALL LOCAL AND IMPORTED FOOD SOLD IN THE MARKET WILL BE SAMPLED, INSPECTED AND EXAMINED TO ENSURE THAT THE FOOD MEETS ALL THE FOOD SAFETY STANDARDS.
THE EXHIBITION IS BEING HELD AT THE CITY HALL EXHIBITION HALL AND WILL LAST UNTIL TUESDAY (FEBRUARY 23). IT WILL THEN BE HELD AT THE SHA TIN TOWN HALL FROM FEBRUARY 26 TO MARCH 2.
THE EXHIBITION IS OPEN FROM 10 AM TO 5.30 PM DAILY. ADMISSION IS FREE.
--------0 -
LATEST POPULATION FIGURE RELEASED » » * » *
THE ESTIMATED POPULATION OF HONG KONG AT THE END OF DECEMBER 1992 WAS 5,902,100, ACCORDING TO FIGURES RELEASED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THIS IS AN INCREASE OF 79,600 PERSONS OR 1.4 PER CENT OVER END-1991. IN END-1991, THE ESTIMATED POPULATION WAS 5,822,500.
THERE WERE 72,700 BIRTHS AND 30,400 DEATHS DURING 1992. NATURAL INCREASE, THAT IS, THE SURPLUS OF BIRTHS OVER DEATHS IN THIS PERIOD, AMOUNTED TO 42,300, ACCOUNTING FOR 53 PER CENT OF THE POPULATION GROWTH.
THE BALANCE OF TOTAL ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES SHOWED A NET INFLOW OF 37,300 PERSONS DURING THE SAME PERIOD.
0---------
Z9 ...
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
9
RECLAMATION WORKS IN TUEN MUN PROPOSED
*****
THE GOVERNMENT INTENDS TO DREDGE AND RECLAIM ABOUT 61 HECTARES OF LAND IN AREA 38, TUEN MUN FOR ACCOMODATING SPECIAL INDUSTRIES THAT ARE CAPITAL AND LAND INTENSIVE, AND FOR PROVIDING BERTHING FACILITIES FOR THEM.
THE PROJECT ALSO INCLUDES THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 1040-METRE-LONG SEAWALL AND A COMMON USER PIER.
THE RECLAIMED LAND CAN ALSO BE DEVELOPED FOR INSTITUTION AND COMMUNITY, COMMERCIAL, LOCAL OPEN SPACE, AMENITY, ROADS AND OTHER SPECIFIED USES.
A TOTAL OF ABOUT 97 HECTARES OF FORESHORE AND SEABED IN THE AREA WILL BE AFFECTED BY THE WORKS, WHICH ARE EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN MAY FOR COMPLETION BY THE END OF 1999.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREA AFFECTED IS DESCRIBED IN A NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HE HAS AN INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED MAY SUBMIT A WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS ON OR BEFORE APRIL 18 THIS YEAR.
THE OBJECTION SHALL DESCRIBE THE INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT OF THE OBJECTOR AND THE MANNER IN WHICH HE ALLEGES HE WILL BE AFFECTED.
THE NOTICE, IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE, TOGETHER WITH ITS RELATED PLAN TMM 1387 CAN BE SEEN ON NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITE.
THE PLAN CAN ALSO BE SEEN AT THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG (WHERE COPIES CAN BE BOUGHT ON ORDER) AND AT THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICE, SECOND FLOOR, TUEN MUN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 1 TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN, NEW TERRITORIES.
-----0------
/10.........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
- 10 -
REPLACEMENT OF PIPELINE » ♦ »
IN HO CHUNG AUTHORISED ♦ »
THE GOVERNMENT IS TO DEMOLISH A 372-METRE-LONG PIPELINE AND REPLACE IT WITH A NEW ONE OF THE SAME LENGTH AT THE FORESHORE AND SEABED AT HO CHUNG, SAI KUNG FOR INTERCEPTING SEWAGE DISCHARGED TO HO CHUNG RIVER.
THE WORK WILL BEGIN THIS MONTH FOR COMPLETION AROUND JUNE THIS YEAR.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREA AFFECTED IS DESCRIBED IN A NOTICE OF AUTHORISATION GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HIS INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED WILL BE AFFECTED BY THE ORKS MAY DELIVER A WRITTEN CLAIM FOR COMPENSATION TO THE DIRECTOR OF UILDINGS AND LANDS ON OR BEFORE FEBRUARY 18, 1994.
THE NOTICE, IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE, TOGETHER WITH ITS RELATED PLAN SKM 3759 CAN BE SEEN AT THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, 'UILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG (WHERE COPIES CAN BE BOUGHT ON ORDER) AND AT THE 'SEUNG KWAN O SUB-OFFICE, SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICE, UNITS 121-122, ROUND FLOOR, PO NING HOUSE, PO LAM ESTATE, TSEUNG KWAN O, SAI KUNG, NEW TERRITORIES.
--------0-----------
TENDERS INVITED FOR WONG TAI SIN PARK *****
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES CONSTRUCTION OF A THEME PARK AT
DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE FUNG TAK ROAD, WONG TAI SIN.
OCCUPYING AN AREA OF ABOUT 1.07 HECTARES, THE PARK WILL HOUSE A "FIVE FINGER MOUNT", A "FLAME MOUNT", A "CRYSTAL PALACE", A "WATER CURTAIN" AND A CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND.
WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START IN MAY FOR COMPLETION IN A YEAR.
TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 34TH FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG.
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING TENDERS IS NOON ON MARCH 19.
--------0-----------
/Il ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
11
TRAVEL CHARACTERISTICS SURVEY * * * * *
THE TRAVEL CHARACTERISTICS SURVEY, COMMISSIONED BY TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT TO COLLECT UP-TO-DATE TRAVEL DATA FOR FUTURE TRANSPORT PLANNING STUDIES, HAS RECENTLY BEEN COMPLETED.
RESULTS OF THE SURVEY SHOW THAT ALTHOUGH THE NUMBER OF LICENSED CARS HAS DOUBLED SINCE 1973, THE PERCENTAGE OF CAR-OWNING HOUSEHOLDS HAS REMAINED AT 13%, THE SAME AS THAT FOUND IN THE TWO PREVIOUS SURVEYS IN 1973 AND 1981.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (FRIDAY): "ON AN AVERAGE WEEKDAY IN 1992, SOME 10,300,000 TRIPS WERE MADE IN THE TERRITORY. THIS WAS ALMOST DOUBLE THE NUMBER OF TRIPS MADE IN 1973 AND WAS 25% HIGHER THAN IN 1981."
THE NUMBER OF TRIPS PER PERSON HAS RISEN FROM 1.27 PER DAY IN 1973 TO 1.58 IN 1981, AND 1.85 IN 1992.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE INCREASE WAS DUE TO CHANGES IN AGE STRUCTURE, INCREASED WEALTH, CHANGES IN LAND USE, AND THE AVAILABILITY OF BETTER TRANSPORT FACILITIES.
"SINCE 1973, PUBLIC TRANSPORT TRIPS HAVE GROWN MUCH FASTER THAN TRIPS BY PRIVATE TRANSPORT (CARS AND TAXIS)."
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE PROPORTION OF TRIPS BY PRIVATE TRANSPORT DECREASED FROM 27% IN 1973 TO 22% TN 1981 AND FURTHER TO 20% IN 1992.
THE MAJOR GROWTH TN PUBLIC TRANSPORT TRIPS HAS BEEN BY RAIL. THE TOTAL DAILY BOARDINGS HAVE INCREASED FROM 740,000 IN 1981 TO 2,670,000 IN 1992.
"OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS, BUS AND PUBLIC LIGHT BUS HAVE GAINED FEW EXTRA PASSENGERS AND THE FERRIES HAVE SUFFERED SIGNIFICANT PATRONAGE LOSS TO THE MTR AND CROSS-HARBOUR BUSES," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
IN TERMS OF THE TOTAL NUMBER OF TRIPS THE PERCENTAGE OF SCHOOL TRIPS HAS DECREASED FROM 17% IN 1981 TO 13% IN 1992.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THIS WAS DUE TO THE REDUCTION IN THE PROPORTION OF STUDENTS IN THE POPULATION.
TRIPS FOR OTHER PURPOSES, SUCH AS BUSINESS, SHOPPING, RECREATIONAL AND SOCIAL TRIPS, HAVE INCREASED BY 40%. TOGETHER THEY FORMED ABOUT 51% OF THE TOTAL TRIP-MAKING IN 1992.
"DESPITE THE INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF TRIPS, AVERAGE JOURNEY TIMES WERE SHORTER IN 1992 THAN IN 1981."
/THE SPOKESMAN
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
- 12
THE SPOKESMAN SAID WITH THE EXPANSION OF MTR, THE ELECTRIFICATION OF KCR AND THE IMPROVEMENT OF OTHER TRANSPORT SERVICES, THE AVERAGE JOURNEY TIME BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT HAS DECREASED FROM 50 MINUTES IN 1981 TO 42 MINUTES IN 1992.
THE AVERAGE TIME TAKEN FOR CAR OR TAXI TRIPS HAS DROPPED FROM 30 TO 28 MINUTES.
THE SURVEY HAS ALSO REVEALED THAT SELF-CONTAINMENT OF THE NEW TOWNS, THAT IS, THE PROPORTION OF TRAVEL THAT REMAINS WITHIN EACH NEW TOWN, HAS CHANGED SINCE 1981.
IN TERMS OF DAILY TRAVEL, A GREATER PROPORTION OF TRIPS ARE WITHIN THE NEW TOWNS, AS THESE HAVE MATURED AND ACQUIRED BETTER COMMERCIAL AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES.
’’HOWEVER, THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO COMMUTING, AS THERE HAS BEEN AN INCREASE IN THE PROPORTION OF WORKERS WHO LIVE IN THE NEW TOWNS BUT COMMUTE TO THE URBAN AREA," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
IN SHA TIN AND TAI PO, ABOUT 75% OF THE POPULATION WHO WORK, TRAVEL TO THE URBAN AREA. THE FIGURE IS 67% FOR TUEN MUN.
-----0------
TUEN MUN LANDSCAPING WORKS TO START IN MAY
*****
WORKS ON LANDSCAPING TO ROADS TN TUEN MUN AS PART OF THE CONTINUING PROGRAMME FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TUEN MUN NEW TOWN WILL BE CARRIED OUT LATER THIS YEAR.
IN A NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY), THE TUEN MUN DEVELOPMENT OFFICE OF THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT INVITES TENDERS FOR THE LANDSCAPING WORKS.
THE WORKS WILL INVOLVE THE LANDSCAPING OF PLANTING STRIPS AND AMENITY AREAS, MAINLY ALONG LUNG MUN ROAD, MING KAM ROAD, TIN KING ROAD, TSING TIN ROAD, TSI NG LUN ROAD, TUEN MUN HEUNG SZE WUI ROAD AND IN THE INDUSTRIAL AREAS IN AREAS 9 AND 12.
A SITTING-OUT AREA AND A LANDSCAPE PEDESTRIAN AREA WILL ALSO BE CONSTRUCTED.
CONTRACT WORKS IS SCHEDULED TO START IN MAY AND EXPECTED TO COMPLETE TN 10 MONTHS.
CLOSING DATE FOR SUBMISSION OF TENDERS IS NOON ON MARCH 12.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE OFFICE OF THE CONSULTANT ON THE THIRD FLOOR, SUITE C AND D, SUM WAY MANSION, 1 BELCHER’S STREET, KENNEDY TOWN.
--------0
/13 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ORDER ON OSCILLATING FANS REVOKED
*****
THE ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ORDER BY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC) ON OSCILLATING FANS FROM CHINA IS REVOKED.
ACCORDING TO A COMMERCIAL INFORMATION CIRCULAR PUBLISHED BY THE TRADE DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY), DOC FOUND THE FINAL RESULTS OF THE LESS-THAN-FAIR VALUE INVESTIGATION AGAINST CHINA-MADE OSCILLATING FANS WERE NEGATIVE.
THE U.S. CUSTOMS SERVICE WOULD BE INSTRUCTED TO TERMINATE THE SUSPENSION OF LIQUIDATION AND TO PROCEED WITH LIQUIDATION OF OSCILLATING FANS FROM CHINA ENTERING THE U.S. AFTER NOVEMBER 22, 1992, WITHOUT REGARD TO ANTI-DUMPING DUTIES.
MEANWHILE, DOC ANNOUNCED THE FINAL DETERMINATION OF SALES AT LESS-THAN-FAIR VALUE IN RESPECT OF FERROSILICON IMPORTED FROM CHINA.
THE U.S. CUSTOMS SERVICE SHALL REQUIRE A CASH DEPOSIT OR POSTING A BOND EQUAL TO THE ESTIMATED MARGIN AMOUNT OF 137.7 PER CENT BY WHICH THE FOREIGN MARKET VALUE OF FERROSILICON FROM CHINA EXCEEDS THE U.S. PRICE.
AS REGARDS ANTI-DUMPING INVESTIGATION AGAINST CERTAIN HELICAL SPRING LOCKWASHERS FROM CHINA, DOC ANNOUNCED THE STATUTORY DEADLINE FOR ISSUING THE PRELIMINARY DETERMINATION IS NOW EXTENDED TO APRIL 26, 1993.
IT WAS SAID THAT THE SUBJECT CASE IS EXTRAORDINARILY COMPLICATED AND THAT ADDITIONAL TIME IS NECESSARY TO MAKE THE PRELIMI NARY DETERM I NAT I ON.
PEDESTRIAN FOOTBRIDGE FOR HING TIN ESTATE
*****
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A PEDESTRIAN FOOTBRIDGE ACROSS LIN TAK ROAD IN HING TIN ESTATE.
THE THREE-MFTRE-WIDE FOOTBRIDGE WILL SPAN ACROSS LIN TAK ROAD, WITH A THREE-METRE-WIDE RAMP ALONG HING TIN CLOSE AND A 2.7-METREWIDE RAMP SPANNING ACROSS HING TIN ESTATE ROAD. IT WILL PROVIDE PEDESTRIANS WITH A SAFE CROSSING OVER THE BUSY LIN TAK ROAD.
MONTHS.
WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START IN MAY AND BE COMPLETED IN 12
DETAILS OF THE TENDER INVITATION WERE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
/TENDER FORMS
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
14
TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS ARE OBTAINABLE FROM THE REGIONAL HIGHWAY ENGINEER/KOWLOON, HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT, ANNEX BUILDING, FARM ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES, FIRST FLOOR, 11 FARM ROAD, KOWLOON. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 760 5426.
THE DEADLINE FOR ACCEPTANCE OF TENDERS IS NOON ON MARCH 12.
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT HAS DESIGNED THE WORKS AND WILL SUPERVISE CONSTRUCTION.
--------0-----------
2.3 MILLION PEOPLI LIVING IN NEW TOWNS ♦ t t ♦ t
THE NINE NEW TOWNS THAT HAVE BEEN OR ARE BEING BUILT IN HONG KONG HAVE A COMBINED CAPACITY FOR THREE-AND-A-HALF MILLION PEOPLE.
BY NOW, THERE ARE ALREADY 2.3 MILLION PEOPLE LIVING IN EIGHT OF THE NEW TOWNS.
ANNOUNCING THIS AT THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT’S SPRING RECEPTION, THE DIRECTOR OF TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT, MR C K CHOW, DESCRIBED HONG KONG’S NEW TOWN PROGRAMME AS "PROBABLY THE MOST AMBITIOUS ONE" IN THE WORLD.
SUBSTANTIATING HIS
VIEW, MR CHOW SAID: "WE HAVE
PROVIDED
4,500 HECTARES OF SERVICED LAND, 3.5 TIMES Till- SIZE OF AIRPORT, 746 KM OF ROADS, 491 SCHOOLS, 8,524 HOSPITAL BEDS HECTARES OF PARKS.
THE
AND
NEW 364
"TOGETHER WITH PUBLIC HOUSING, WE HAVE SPENT OVER $100
BILLION, AND THERE IS YET ANOTHER $150 BILLION EXPENDITURE BEING PLANNED."
EARLIER, MR CHOW POINTED OUT THAT HIS DEPARTMENT, FORMERLY KNOWN AS NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT, HAD ENTERED ITS 20TH YEAR.
THE DEPARTMENT WAS RENAMED TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT IN 1986 WHEN ITS RESPONSIBILITY WAS EXTENDED TO ('OVER THE NEW URBAN DEVELOPMENT AREAS.
"SINCE THEN, BESIDES BUILDING NEW TOWNS, THE DEPARTMENT IS ALSO WORKING ON MAJOR URBAN EXPANSION SCHEMES, SUCH AS WEST KOWLOON AND CENTRAL/WANCHAI RECLAMATION.
"AFTER 20 YEARS, OUR WORK IS ALREADY QUITE VISIBLE IN THE EYE OF THE PUBLIC, NOT ONLY LOCALLY BUT ALSO IN THE WORLD," HE ADDED.
- - 0
/15 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
- 15 -
TEACHER ASSESSMENT FORMS AVAILABLE AT CAREER EXPO ’93
VISITORS TO THE EDUCATION AND CAREERS EXPO ’93 MAY OBTAIN APPLICATION FORMS FOR NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT AT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S BOOTH.
THE EXHIBITION WILL LAST UNTIL 7 PM ON SUNDAY (FEBRUARY 21) AT THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID A BOOKLET ON THE COLLEGES OF EDUCATION AND LEAFLETS ON "A CAREER IN EDUCATION" AND "CERTIFICATED MASTER - ADVANCEMENT PROSPECTS" WOULD ALSO BE HANDED OUT.
"OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ANSWER QUESTIONS ABOUT EDUCATIONAL MATTERS INCLUDING APPLICATIONS TO STUDY AT THE COLLEGES, AND JOINING THE DEPARTMENT AS AN ASSISTANT EDUCATION OFFICER OR CERTIFICATED MASTER," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE NON-GRADUATE ASSESSMENT DOCUMENTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT:
* ROOM G02 LUI KEE EDUCATION SERVICES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, 269 QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI;
* YAU TSIM DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE, SEVENTH FLOOR, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 405 NATHAN ROAD, YAU MA TEI;
t YUEN LONG DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE, YUEN LONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES AND TAI KIU MARKET, FOURTH FLOOR, 2 KIU LOK SQUARE, YUEN LONG; AND
* SHA TIN DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE, THIRD FLOOR, KCR HOUSE, SHA TIN.
THE SPOKESMAN REMINDED THE PUBLIC THAT COMPLETED FORMS MUST BE RETURNED TO THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT BEFORE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27.
SO FAR, THE DEPARTMENT DISTRIBUTED 817 SETS OF ASSESSMENT DOCUMENTS SINCE FEBRUARY 5, HE SAID.
------0--------
BUILDING SAFETY EXHIBITION t t t t t
ANOTHER ROUND OF BUILDING SAFETY EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD IN TAIKOO SHING TOMORROW (SATURDAY).
THE TWO-DAY EXHIBITION IS PART OF THE BUILDING SAFETY CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED IN SEPTEMBER LAST YEAR BY THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE (BOO) OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT.
/THE CAMPAIGN .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
- 16 -
THE CAMPAIGN ADOPTS AN EDUCATIONAL APPROACH BY IMPRESSING ON PROPERTY OWNERS THAT IT IS THEIR RESPONSIBILITY TO MAINTAIN THEIR PROPERTIES IN GOOD CONDITION.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD ON THE SECOND FLOOR OF CITY PLAZA TWO, TAIKOO SHING FROM 10.30 AM TO 8.30 PM.
BOO STAFF WILL BE ON HAND TO HELP THE PUBLIC WITH ENQUIRIES ON BUILDING SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE.
THE BOO IS ALSO OPERATING A ROUND-THE-CLOCK HOTLINE, 848 2222, TO ANSWER ENQUIRIES ON BUILDING SAFETY.
-----0------
REHABILITATION CEREMONY FOR 468-YEAR-OLD ANCESTRAL HALL
*****
THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, WILL OFFICIATE AT A REHABILITATION CEREMONY OF THE TANG CHUNG LING ANCESTRAL HALL AT LUNG YEUK TAU, FANLJNG, AT 11 AM ON SUNDAY (FEBRUARY 21).
BUILT IN 1525 IN HONOUR OF THE FOUNDING ANCESTOR, TANG CHUNG LING ANCESTRAL HALL IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST AND MOST IMPORTANT ANCESTRAL HALLS IN HONG KONG.
IT WAS DECLARED A MONUMENT IN 1990 IN VIEW OF ITS HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND ARCHITECTURAL SPLENDOURS.
WITH DONATION AND CONTRIBUTION FROM THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY rLUB AND THE GOVERNMENT, A MAJOR RESTORATION WAS STARTED IN 1991.
THE PROJECT WAS RECENTLY COMPLETED UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE ANTIQUITIES SECTION OF THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE OF THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT.
A PRESS VAN (DL 3869) FOR (NEAR PENINSULA HOTEL), TS1M SHA
LUNG YEUK TAU WILL LEAVE MIDDLE TSUI, AT 9.15 AM ON SUNDAY.
ROAD
ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE STAFF WILL BE ON HAND TO HELP.
/17.........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
17 -
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN YUEN LONG ENTERS NEW ERA » * » t t
AS TIN SHUT WAI NEW TOWN IS NEARING COMPLETION, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN YUEN LONG WILL BE ENTERING A NEW ERA, THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SUEN, SAID THIS (FRIDAY) AFTERNOON.
SPEAKING AT THE SPEECH DAY OF THE HEUNG YEE KUK YUEN LONG DISTRICT SECONDARY SCHOOL, HE SAID THE NEW TOWN WILL HOUSE 140,000 PEOPLE.
NOTING THAT THE POPULATION INCREASE WILL INEVITABLY BRING ABOUT TRAFFIC PROBLEMS, MR SUEN GAVE HIS ASSURANCE THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS WORKING ON A SOLUTION.
FOR EXAMPLE, IN ADDITION TO THE PLANNED ROUTE THREE, THE NEW TERRITORIES CIRCULAR ROAD HAS BEEN COMPLETED AND OPENED TO ROAD USERS, HE SAID.
WORK ON THE TUEN MUN/YUEN LONG EAST CORRIDOR WILL BE COMPLETED BY THE MIDDLE OF THIS YEAR TO ALLEVIATE TRAFFIC CONGESTION ALONG THE CASTLE PEAK ROAD, HE ADDED.
"FURTHERMORE, TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOWS IN YUEN LONG TOWN, WORK ON THE SOUTHERN BYPASS IS BEING CARRIED OUT AND WILL BE COMPLETED BY THE END OF 1994, WHEN THE WHOLE NEW TERRITORIES WEST WILL BE LINKED UP BY A WELL-DEVELOPED TRANSPORTATION NETWORK," HE SAID.
--------0------------
ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE TO MEET ON MONDAY
* * * * *
THE ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A MEETING AT 2.30 PM ON MONDAY (FEBRUARY 22) IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OBSERVE THE PROCEEDINGS FROM THE PUBLIC GALLERY. THEY MAY RESERVE SEATS BY CALLING 869 9492.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
THE SUB-COMMITTEE’S PAPERS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR ADVANCE READING AFTER II AM ON MONDAY AT THE PRESS ROOM OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BUILDING. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CONTENT OF THE PAPERS WILL BE EMBARGOED FOR USE UNTIL THE MEETING ENDS.
/]8 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
18 -
ILLEGAL STRUCTURES TN WAN CHAI TO BE CLOSED * ♦ * * ♦
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE TWO UNAUTHORISED SINGLE-STOREY STRUCTURES IN THE REAR LANE AT 409 - 413 JAFFE ROAD IN WAN CHAI SO THAT THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND THE PUBLIC.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON APRIL 14 WAS POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY (FRIDAY).
IT IS EXPECTED THAT DEMOLITION WORKS WILL START AS SOON AS THE CLOSURE ORDER IS ISSUED.
-----0------
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY *****
OUTLINE OF WORK DONE ON FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 19) UP TO 4.30 PM
1. WRITING FINAL REPORT.
2. CORRESPONDENCE. -----------------------------------0-------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,065
REVERSAL OF LAF +85
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,150
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -205
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,945
LAF RATE 2.00 BTD/4.00 OFFER TWI 114.3 *-0.3* 19.2.1993
/HONG KONG ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1993
19
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSI E COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.88 PCT 15 MONTHS 24 05 5 . 50 102.35 3.57
1 MONTH 2.89 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 5 . 50 101.05 3.68
3 MONTHS 2.93 PCT 21 MONTHS 24 1 1 1 . 375 101.25 3.91
6 MONTHS 3.05 PCT 21 MONTHS 2502 I .025 101.28 4.11
12 MONTHS 3.44 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF HILLS ANH BONDS - 14.099MN
CLOSED 19 FEBRUARY 1993
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
RECORD NUMBER JOIN YOUTH SCHEME ................................ 1
FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT ...................... 1
PUBLIC WORKS SUB-COMMITTEE TO MEET ON TUESDAY .................. 2
ANTI-NARCOTICS CARNIVAL IN KWAI TSING .......................... 3
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
3
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 1993
1
RECORD NUMBER JOIN YOUTH SCHEME * * * * *
A PROJECT TO PROMOTE MUTUAL HELP IN A KWUN TONG PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE BY CHING NGAU VOLUNTEER GROUP OF THE HONG KONG YWCA LOK WAH SOCIAL CENTRE WAS TODAY (SATURDAY) SELECTED THE HONG KONG BEST OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH SCHEME (OYS) PROJECT.
THIS WAS ANNOUNCED BY THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR IAN STRACHAN AT AN AWARD-PRESENTATION CEREMONY CUM EXHIBITION OF THE OYS 1992/93.
A RECORD NUMBER OF 138 YOUTH GROUPS HAD TAKEN PART IN THE SCHEME THIS YEAR. •
"IT IS ENCOURAGING TO NOTE THAT OVER 10,000 YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE PROVIDED SERVICES FOR 100,000 NEEDY PERSONS IN THE COMMUNITY," HE SAID.
THE OYS, INTRODUCED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT SINCE 1974, IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE TO DEVELOP THEIR CREATIVITY AND LEADERSHIP QUALITIES AND TO PROMOTE THEIR CONCERN FOR THE COMMUNITY.
THE MAIN THEME OF THIS YEAR’S SCHEME IS "SOCIAL NETWORK AND HOME SAFETY”.
MR STRACHAN SAID THROUGH THE WORK OF THE PARTICIPANTS, THE MUTUAL HELP CONCEPT COULD BE DEVELOPED. ONE AREA IS TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM OF UNATTENDED CHILDREN AT HOME.
"IT IS ALSO ENCOURAGING TO LEARN THAT QUITE A NUMBER OF PROJECTS UNDERTAKEN BY YOUTH GROUPS THIS YEAR FOCUS ON SERVING DISABLED PEOPLE, INCLUDING THE MENTALLY DISABLED AND EX-MENTAL PATIENTS,” HE SAID.
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEMBER MS ROSANNA WONG ALSO OFFICIATED AT THE CEREMONY.
THERE WAS AN EXHIBITION OF THE BEST DISTRICT PROJECTS AND DISPLAYS AND GAMES TO PROMOTE OYS.
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FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT ******
THE 1992/93 SOUTHERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME CAMPAIGN WILL BF CONCLUDED WITH A CARNIVAL AT THE ABERDEEN PROMENADE TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
IT WILL FEATURE THE POLICE PIPE BAND, SINGING AND DANCF
aFIcSoSc ^dLmagicOsSJJsSATIONS’ TAKKWANno demonstrations as well
/PARTICIPANTS MAY .......
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 1993
2
PARTICIPANTS MAY ALSO WIN FABULOUS PRIZES AT A QUIZ HOSTED BY DISC JOCKEY MS NG MAN-YEE.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE STALL GAMES AND AN EXHIBITION OF THE WINNING ENTRIES OF AN EARLIER DRAWING COMPETITION.
THE CARNIVAL HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE (SDFCC) AND THE DISTRICT OFFICE.
ADMISSION IS FREE. ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND THE EVENT WHICH WILL START AT 2.30 PM.
OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE MEMBER, MR JUSTEIN WONG; THE WESTERN DISTRICT POLICE COMMANDER, MR MIKE HORNER; AND THE ICAC'S WESTERN AND ISLANDS REGIONAL OFFICER, MRS SANDRA MAK.
THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MRS ROSANNA URE; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT BOARD, MR HUI YUNG-CHUNG; AND THE SDFCC CHAIRMAN, MR CHAN YAU-YUE, WILL ALSO BE PRESENT.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE ABERDEEN PROMENADE.
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PUBLIC WORKS SUB-COMMITTEE TO MEET ON TUESDAY * * * * ♦
THE PUBLIC WORKS SUB-COMMITTEE OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING AT 4.30 PM ON TUESDAY (FEBRUARY 23) IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER.
THE PURPOSE OF THE MEETING IS TO DISCUSS THE REMAINING 10 ITEMS
ON THE AGENDA OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OBSERVE THE PROCEEDINGS FROM THE PUBLIC GALLERY. THEY MAY RESERVE SEATS BY CALLING 869 9492.
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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 1993
3 ANTI-NARCOTICS CARNIVAL IN KWAI TS1NG * * » * ♦
HUNDREDS OF RESIDENTS IN KWAI TSING DISTRICT WILL TAKE PART IN AN ANTI-NARCOTICS CARNIVAL AT THE METROPLAZA IN KWAI FONG TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AFTERNOON.
THE EVENT IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT ANTI-NARCOTICS CAMPAIGN CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE AND THE DISTRICT OFFICE.
IT IS AIMED AT EDUCATING THE PUBLIC ON THE DANGERS OF NARCOTICS AND ENCOURAGING THEM TO PURSUE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE.
THE SHOW IS SPONSORED BY THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST
NARCOTICS. IT WILL START AT 2 PM.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LEUNG KWONG-CHEONG AND A PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MS ANISSA WONG, WILL JOINTLY OFFICIATE AT THE CARNIVAL WHICH WILL START AT 2 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE CRYSTAL ATRIUM OF METROPLAZA IN KWAI FONG.
THEY WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY THE KWAI COMMANDER OF POLICE, MRS PEGGY STEVENS AND SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER, MR ROY TANG.
('HUNG DEPUTY THE DISTRICT
DISTRICT
OFFICE’S
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT.
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
*****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,945
REVERSAL OF LAF +75
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,020
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -20
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,000
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
EASY 2 UP FOR SALE ............................................. x
ALASDAIR SINCLAIR TAKES OVER AS COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS .. 2
SEASONAL REMINDER ON LICENCE RENEWAL ........................... 2
POLITICAL SYSTEM VITAL TO STABILITY ............................ 3
GOVT WORKS HARD TO PRESERVE HERITAGE ........................... 3
SURVEY ON OPERATION OF URBAN AND LANTAU TAXIS .................. 4
SHRIMP DUMPLINGS FACTORY FINED ................................. 5
SALT WATER CUT IN KOWLOON EAST ................................. c
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1993
EASY 2 UP FOR SALE » * » » »
VEHICLE OWNERS WHO WISH TO GRACE THEIR CARS WITH THE SPECIAL CAR REGISTRATION NUMBER 2 SHOULD NOT MISS THE AUCTION OF VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBERS NEXT SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 27) AT THEATRE I OF THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE.
THE SPECIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER 2 WITHOUT PREFIX IS AMONG 50 LUCKY NUMBERS TO BE SOLD AT THE AUCTION WHICH STARTS AT 9.30 AM. OTHER NUMBERS WITHOUT PREFIX TO BE SOLD INCLUDED 44, 303, 899 AND 989.
THE NUMBER 2 VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK IS MADE AVAILABLE FOR AUCTION BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, AS A NEW YEAR GESTURE TO BOOST THE LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY. THE REGISTRATION NUMBER HAS BEEN ASSIGNED TO HIS OFFICE.
AS A FURTHER PERSONAL GESTURE, MR MACLEOD WILL GIVE A SMALL PRESENT TO THE NEW OWNER OF THE LICENCE NUMBER. THIS GIFT WILL BE A SET OF NEW PROOF COINS WHICH WILL GRADUALLY REPLACE THE OLD COINS IN CIRCULATION.
PREVIOUS AUCTIONS OF SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBERS SAW THE AUSPICIOUS NUMBER 8 SOLD FOR A RECORD HIGH OF $5 MILLION IN FEBRUARY 1988, A RECORD FIGURE THAT FOUND ITS WAY INTO THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS.
IN JANUARY THE FOLLOWING YEAR, ANOTHER SINGLE DIGIT NUMBER 7 WAS SOLD FOR $4.8 MILLION. AT OTHER AUCTIONS, THE PRICES OF THE OTHER SINGLE DIGIT NUMBERS WITHOUT PREFIX ARE:
NO. 3 SOLI) IN JULY 19R3 FOR $1.03 MILLION
NO. 4 SOLD IN OCTOBER 1978 FOR. $147,000
NO. 5 SOLD IN JANUARY 1993 FOR $2.5 MILLION
NO. 6 SOLD IN DECEMBER 1978 FOR $330,000
NO. 10 SOLI) IN MARCH 1977 FOR $200,000
SINCE MAY 1973, A TOTAL OF 6,087 VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS HAVE BEEN SOLD AT 188 AUCTIONS ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, RAISING MORE THAN $170 MILLION FOR THE LOTTERIES FUND.
- 0 ----------
/2 .........
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1993
- 2
ALASDAIR SINCLAIR TAKES OVER AS COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS *****
MR ALASDAIR SINCLAIR WILL TAKE OVER FROM MR K J WOODHOUSE TOMORROW (MONDAY) AS COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS.
MR SINCLAIR, 41, FIRST JOINED THE GOVERNMENT IN SEPTEMBER 1976 AS AN ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER AND WAS PROMOTED TO SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER IN APRIL 1983.
HE HAS HELD ADMINISTRATIVE POSTS IN THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT AND VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS, INCLUDING THE ('I VIL SERVICE BRANCH, CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, FINANCE BRANCH AND MONETARY AFFAIRS BRANCH.
HE WAS PROMOTED TO ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE C IN APRIL 1986.
BEFORE HE WAS APPOINTED AS THE COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, MR SINCLAIR WAS A PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECURITY.
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SEASONAL REMINDER ON LICENCE RENEWAL
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT TODAY (SUNDAY) REMINDS DRIVERS AND VEHICLE OWNERS WHO WISH TO RENEW THEIR LICENCES THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL THEIR LICENCES EXPIRE AS THEY CAN APPLY ANY TIME DURING THE FOUR-MONTH PERIOD BEFORE THE EXPIRY.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE LICENSING OFFICES WERE USUALLY MORE CROWDED DURING THE BEGINNING AND THE END OF EACH MONTH.
ON EXTREMELY BUSY DAYS, THE LICENSING OFFICES WILL ADOPT A QUOTA SYSTEM UNDER WHICH APPLICANTS ARE GIVEN AN APPOINTMENT DISC FOR A SPECIFIED TIME TO HAND IN THEIR APPLICATIONS. THE APPOINTMENT DISCS WILL BE HANDED OUT ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS.
TO REMINDED APPLYING PROVIDED
AVOID LONG QUEUES AT THE LICENSING OFFICES, THE SPOKESMAN DRIVERS AND VEHICLE OWNERS THAT THEY COULD SAVE TIME BY TO RENEW THEIR LICENCES BY POST OR THROUGH THE DROP-IN BOX AT THE FOUR LICENSING OFFICES.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT ALL POST OFFICES, ENQUIRY CENTRES OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, AND THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT LICENSING OFFICES.
"AS MANY POSTAL APPLI CAT IONS ARE EXPECTED TO BE RECEIVED AROUND THIS PERIOD, THE PROCESSING TIME MAY BE INCREASED FROM THE NORMAL 14 WORKING DAYS TO 28," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE ASSURED APPLICANTS THAT THE LICENSING OFFICES WOULD TRY TO POST BACK THE LICENCES WITHIN 14 WORKING DAYS AS FAR AS POSSIBLE.
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/3 .........
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1993
- 3 -
POLITICAL SYSTEM VITAL TO STABILITY * * * * »
THE FOUNDATION FOR HONG KONG’S CONTINUED STABILITY AND PROSPERITY RESTS ON A POLITICAL SYSTEM THAT WOULD BE ACCEPTABLE TO ITS PEOPLE, THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MRS ROSANNA URE, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
SPEAKING AT A FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL, MRS URE POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS OF GREAT IMPORTANCE THAT HONG KONG PEOPLE PARTICIPATED IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.
SHE CALLED ON RESIDENTS TO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS ON THE POLITICAL REFORM PROPOSALS PUT FORWARD BY THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, IN HIS POLICY SPEECH LAST OCTOBER.
AT THE SAME TIME, THE PEOPLE SHOULD ALSO PLAY A ROLE IN MAINTAINING LAW AND ORDER BY HELPING THE POLICE TO COMBAT CRIME, SHE SAID.
MRS URE SAID THEY SHOULD BE VIGILANT AT ALL TIMES AGAINST CRIME, REPORT CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES TO THE POLICE AND BE PREPARED TO TESTIFY AGAINST CRIMINALS.
THE FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL WAS ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE DISTRICT’S FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE AND THE DISTRICT OFFICE.
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GOVT WORKS HARD TO PRESERVE HERITAGE *****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN STRIVING STRENUOUSLY IN THE PAST DECADES TO PRESERVE THE LOCAL HERITAGE, THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE REHABILITATION CEREMONY FOR THE 468-YEAR-OLD TANG CHUNG LING ANCESTRAL HALL IN FANLING, MR SO SAID THE RECENT ESTABLISHMENT OF THE LORD WILSON HERITAGE TRUST WAS ANOTHER FINE EXAMPLE OF SUCH EFFORTS.
"SUCCESS OF THE TRUST DEPENDS VERY MUCH ON THE INVOLVEMENT OF THE COMMUNITY," HE SAID.
OUTSIDE THE GOVERNMENT, THE SECRETARY NOTED THAT THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB HAD BEEN THE BIGGEST BENEFACTOR IN THE FUNDING OF RESTORATION AND CONSERVATION OF HONG KONG’S HERITAGE.
/"THE FUNDING .......
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1993
"THE FUNDING OF $2.35 MILLION FOR THE RESTORATION OF THIS ANCESTRAL HALL IS YET ANOTHER VIVID EXAMPLE OF THE CLUB’S COMMITMENT TO THE PRESERVATION OF HONG KONG’S HERITAGE," HE SAID.
MR SO ALSO THANKED THE TANG CLAN OF LUNG YEUK TAU FOR THEIR GREATEST ESTEEM AND CARE OF THE BUILDING.
"THE HALL HAS BEEN SO WELL PRESERVED THAT NOW NOT ONLY YOUR CLANSMEN BUT ALSO THE PUBLIC AT LARGE CAN HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO UNDERSTAND ITS HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE AS WELL AS TO APPRECIATE ITS ARCHITECTURAL SPLENDOURS," HE ADDED.
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SURVEY ON OPERATION OF URBAN AND LANTAU TAXIS » t t * t
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT IS CONDUCTING A SURVEY ON THE OPERATION CHARACTERISTICS AND FINANCE OF URBAN AND LANTAU TAXIS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) THAT THE SURVEY WAS AN ANNUAL EXERCISE AND COMPRISED A QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY AND A METER-READING SURVEY.
QUESTIONNAIRE FORMS AND SKETCHES SHOWING THE LOCATIONS OF THE METER-READING CENTRES HAVE BEEN DISTRIBUTED TO TAXI OWNERS SELECTED FOR THE SURVEY.
FOR THE METER-READING SURVEY, URBAN TAXI OWNERS SHOULD PRESENT THEIR VEHICLES TO THE METER-READING CENTRES FROM TOMORROW (MONDAY) TO FRIDAY (FEBRUARY 26) AND FROM MARCH 1 TO 5 BETWEEN 9.30 AM AND 12.30 PM OR BETWEEN 2 PM AND 4.30 PM.
LANTAU TAXI OWNERS SHOULD PRESENT THEIR VEHICLES TO THE METERREADING CENTRE FOR FIVE CONSECUTIVE TUESDAYS FROM FEBRUARY 23 TO MARCH 23 BETWEEN 9.30 AM AND 12.30 PM OR BETWEEN 1.30 PM AND 3.30 PM.
QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY FORMS FOR URBAN TAXIS SHOULD REACH THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ON OR BEFORE MARCH 5 (FRIDAY) WHILE FORMS FOR LANTAU TAXIS SHOULD BE RETURNED BEFORE MARCH 23 (TUESDAY).
THE SPOKESMAN URGED OWNERS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE SURVEY TO HELP THE DEPARTMENT ASSESS THE OPERATING CONDITIONS OF URBAN AND LANTAU TAXIS.
HE SAID THE INFORMATION COLLECTED WOULD BE USED FOR STATISTICAL ANALYSIS ONLY.
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/5 .........
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1993
- 5
SHRIMP DUMPLINGS FACTORY FINED ♦ * * * *
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAS SUCCESSFULLY BROUGHT A FOOD FACTORY TO JUSTICE FOR THE OFFENCE OF SELLING SHRIMP DUMPLINGS CONTAINING SORBIC ACID WHICH IS A NON-PERM ITTED PRESERVATIVE USED IN THE POPULAR CHINESE DIM SUM.
THE DEFENDANT, JEBSON DEVELOPMENT LIMITED, PLEADED GUILTY TO THE OFFENCE IN SHA TIN MAGISTRACY ON FEBRUARY 10 AND WAS FINED $10,000.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT THAT THE OFFENCE COMMITTED WAS IN CONTRAVENTION OF THE PRESERVATIVES IN FOOD REGULATIONS AND THE MAXIMUM PENALTY COULD AMOUNT TO $10,000 FINE PLUS SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT.
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SPARES NO EFFORT TO PROSECUTE OFFENCES WHICH AFFECT PUBLIC HEALTH, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
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SALT WATER CUT IN KOWLOON EAST
*****
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO SOME AREAS TN KOWLOON EAST WILL BE CUT OFF FROM 9 AM IO MIDNIGHT ON TUESDAY (FEBRUARY 23) TO FACILITATE CONNECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE AFFECTED AREAS INCLUDE LAM TIN ESTATE, HING TIN ESTATE HONG WAH COURI , HONG I IN COURT, SAU MAU PING ESTATE, CHEUNG WO COURT UNITED CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL, SHUN TIN ESTATE, SHUN ON ESTATE, SHUN LEE ESTATE AND SHUN LEE TSUEN TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA.
ALSO INCLUDED WILL BE SHUN CHI COURT, CHO I WAN ESTATE, NGAU TAU KOK UPPER ESTATE, LOK WAH ESTATE, LOK NGA COURT AND All THE PREMISES AT HIU KWONG STREET, KUNG LOK ROAD AND HONG LIE ROAD.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO,
CONSUMER PRICE INDICES FOR JANUARY ............................. 1
ENVIRONMENT GUIDE FOR MANUFACTURERS ............................ 7
SEMINAR TO INTRODUCE WORK-BASED CHILD CARE SERVICE ............ 7
LAST LOT OF 1993 PROOF COIN SETS ON SALE ....................... 8
18 OFFICERS COMPLETE 444 YEARS' SERVICE ........................ 9
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY .......................................... 9
FRESH WATER CUTS ............................................... 9
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ......................................... 10
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ., 10
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
1 CONSUMER PRICE INDICES FOR JANUARY
A DIFFERENCE IN TIMING FOR 'III LUNAR NEU YEAR WHICH OCCURRED IN JANUARY THIS YEAR BUT IN FEBRUARY LAST YEAR CAUSED THE CONSUMER PRICE INDICES (CPI) TO RISE FASTER IN JANUARY, BRINGING THE RATE OF INCREASE TO MARGINALLY ABOVE 10%. TH IS RELAPSE WAS LIKELY TO BE TEMPORARY.
ACCORDING TO THE FIGURES RELEASED TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) WAS 10.1% HIGHER IN JANUARY 1993 THAN THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR. IN DECEMBER 1992, THE CORRESPONDING INCREASE WAS 9.1%.
THE HIGHER YEAR-ON-YEAR RATE OF INCREASE IN JANUARY WAS MAINLY DUE TO HIGHER PRICES FOR MOST FRESH FOOD ITEMS, PARTICULARLY FRESH FRUIT, PORK AND LIVE POULTRY, AS WELL AS HIGHER CHARGES FOR HAIRDRESSING AND PACKAGE TOURS AROUND THE LUNAR NEW YEAR PERIOD.
THE CP1(B) AND THE HANG SENG CPI WERE HIGHER BY 10.3% AND 10.1% RESPECTIVELY TN JANUARY 1993 THAN IN JANUARY 1992. THE CORRESPONDING INCREASES IK DECEMBER 1992 WERE BOTH 9.7%.
THE COMPOSITE CPI, WHICH WAS COMPILED BASED ON THE COMBINED EXPENDITURE PATTERN OF HOUSEHOLDS COVERED BY THE THREE CPIS, SHOWED AN INCREASE OF 10.2% IN JANUARY 1993 OVER THE SAME MONTH IN 1992. THE CORRESPONDING INCREASE IN DECEMBER 1992 WAS 9.6%.
COMMENTING ON THE FIGURES, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, SAID PAST EXPERIENCE INDICATED 111 A I INFLATION IN JANUARY AND FEBRUARY TENDED TO BE MORE VOLATILE BEC AUSE OF THE LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL.
"THE RELAPSE IN JANUARY SHOULD BE SEEN IN THIS CONTEXT, AS THE FASTER PRICE INCREASES WERE CONCENTRATED ON THOSE ITEMS WITH A GREATER CONSUMER DEMAND DURING THE FESTIVAL," HE SAID.
COMPARING JANUARY 1993 WITH JANUARY 1992, RELATIVELY SLOWER INCREASES IN PRICES WERE RECORDED FOR DURABLE GOODS (1.9% IN THE CPI(A) AND 2.0% IN THE CPI(B)); FUEL AND LIGHT (5.5% IN BOTH CPI(A) AND CPI(B)); MISCELLANEOUS GOODS (6.8% IN BOTH CPI(A) AND CPI(B)); TRANSPORT (6.9% IN THE CPI(A) AND 7.5% IN THE CPI(B)); FOOD (EXCLUDING MEALS AT RESTAURANTS) (8.0% AND 8.2%); CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR (8.7% AND 8.5%); AND MEALS AT RESTAURANTS (9.7% AND 9.8%).
ON THE OTHER HAND, RELATIVELY FASTER INCREASES IN PRICES WERE RECORDED FOR HOUSING (15.5% IN THE CPI(A) AND 15.6% IN THE CPI(B)); ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO (11.2% AND 12.8%); AND SERVICES (12.4% AND 11.3%).
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JANUARY 1993, THE (Pl(A) WAS, ON AVERAGE, HIGHER BY 9.6% THAN IN THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JANUARY 1992. THE CORRESPONDING FIGURE FOR THE CPI(B) WAS 9.9%.
/FOR THE ........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
2
FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDING JANUARY 1993, THE CPI(A) AND THE CPI(B) WERE, ON AVERAGE, HIGHER BY 9.3% AND 9.7% RESPECTIVELY THAN IN THE PRECEDING 12-MONTH PERIOD.
SEASONALLY ADJUSTED SERIES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR THE INDICES. THE DESEASONALISED CPI(A) AND CPI(B) BOTH INCREASED AT AN AVERAGE RATE OF 0.8% PER MONTH DURING THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JANUARY 1993.
THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX REPORT
MORE DETAILS ARE GIVEN IN THE "CONSUMER PRICE INDEX REPORT" FOR JANUARY 1993, WHICH IS AVAILABLE AT $12.0 A COPY FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, HONG KONG; OR FROM THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHA1 TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
FOR LOCAL AND OVERSEAS MAILINGS, CONTACT SHOULD BE MADE WITH THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG.
FOR ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE INDU FS, PLEASE TELEPHONE THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 805 6403. DETAILS REGARDING THE HANG SENG CPI ARE CONTAINED IN THE HANG SENG CPI REPORT ISSUED BY THE ECONOMIC RESEARCH DEPARTMENT OF HANG SENG BANK LTD.
/TABLE 1 .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
3
Table 1 Consumer Price Indices and Rates of Increase for January 1993 (Oct. 89 - Sep. 90 = 100)
Component CPI(A) CPI(B) Hang Seng CPI Composite CPI
Index for Jan 93 % change over Jan 92 Index for Jan 93 % change over Jan 92 Index for Jan 93 % change over Jan 92 Index for Jan 93 % change over Jan 92
Food 130.3 +8.9 131.3 +9.1 130.5 +9.2 130.7 +9.0
Meals bought away from home 134.7 +9.7 134.7 +9.8 132.1 +9.7 134.2 +9.7
Food, excluding meals bought away from home 126.0 +8.0 126.5 +8.2 127.7 +8.4 126.5 +8.1
Housing 142.4 +15.5 143.2 +15.6 142.6 +14.0 142.8 +15.1
Fuel and light 119.4 +5.5 118.8 +5.5 119.1 +5.1 119.1 +5.4
Alcoholic drinks and tobacco 166.4 +14.2 157.2 +12.8 152.4 +11.9 161.2 +13.4
Clothing and footwear 119.6 +8.7 120.0 +8.5 123.7 +7.8 121.1 +8.3
Durable goods 107.4 +1.9 106.6 +2.0 111.3 +4.3 108.3 +2.6
Miscellaneous goods 120.1 +6.8 118.2 +6.8 116.9 +6.4 118.6 +6.7
Transport 128.0 +6.9 128.4 +7.5 129.8 +7.6 128.6 +7.3
Services 138.6 +12.4 135.4 +11.3 130.3 +10.3 134.9 +11.4
All items 131.8 +10.1 131.6 +10.3 131.5 +10.1 131.7 +10.2
The 1989/90-based consumer price indices are based on the expenditure patterns derived from the 1989/90 Household Expenditure Survey. The CPI(A) is based on the expenditure pattern of about 50% of urban households in Hong Kong, which had an average monthly expenditure of $2,500-89,999 in 1989/90. The CPI(B) is based on the expenditure pattern of the next 30% of urban households, which had an average monthly expenditure of $10,000-817,499 in the same period. The Hang Seng CPI is based on the expenditure pattern of the next 10% of urban households, which had an average monthly expenditure of 817,500-$37,499 in 1989/90.
Whereas the CPI(A), CPI(B) and Hang Seng CPI are based on the expenditure patterns of groups of households with different magnitudes of household expenditure, the Composite CPI is compiled based on the expenditure pattern of all these households taken together. Thus, while the CPI(A), CPI(B) and Hang Seng CPI show the impact of consumer price changes on different groups of households, the Composite CPI shows the impact of consumer price changes on the household sector generally.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
4
Table 2 Consumer Price Indices for January 1991 - January 1993 (Oct. 89 - Sep. 90 = 100)
Year/month CPI(A) CPI(D) Hang Seng CPI Composite CPI
1991 January 108.3 108.4 . 108.6 108.4
February 110.3 110.1 110.2 110.2
March 111.9 111.1 110.7 111.3
April 113.9 113.0 112.0 113.1
May 114.0 113.6 113.4 113.7
June 114.6 114.1 113.9 114.2
July 115.4 114.8 113.9 114.8
August 116.0 115.3 114.6 115.4
September 116.8 116.1 115.8 116.3
October 117.2 116.8 117.4 117.1
November 117.7 117.6 118.7 117.9
December 118.1 118.3 118.5 118.3
1992 January 119.7 119.3 119.4 119.5
February 121.8 121.2 121.0 121.4
March 122.5 121.9 121.8 122.1
April 124.0 123.4 122.9 123.5
May 124.0 123.8 124.2 124.0
June 125.3 125.1 125.2 125.2
July 125.5 125.4 125.4 125.4
August 125.6 125.9 125.8 125.8
September 128.3 127.9 127.5 128.0
October 128.4 128.4 128.6 128.5
November 128.5 129.0 129.9 129.0
December 129.3 129.8 130.0 129.7
1993 January 131.8 131.6 131.5 131.7
/CHART 1 .......
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
5
Chart 1 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in CPI(A)
Chart 2 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in CPI(B)
/CHART 3 .
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
6
Chart 3 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in Hang Seng CPI
Chart 4 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in Composite CPI
- - 0 -
Z7.........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
7
ENVIRONMENT GUIDE FOR MANUFACTURERS ******
THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) PUBLISHED A BOOK ENTITLED ”A GUIDE TO POLLUTION CONTROL LEGISLATION AFFECTING MANUFACTURI NG INDUSTRIES 1993 " .
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID: "WITH ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION IN HONG KONG, THERE IS UP-TO-DATE REFERENCE BOOK FOR LOCAL MANUFACTURERS
THE PROGRESS OF
A NEED FOR AN
ON ENVIRONMENTAL
LEGISLATION.
’’THE GUIDE PROVIDES A LEGISLATION AND INCLUDES ENVIRONMENTAL MEASURES WHICH
SUMMARY OF
REFERENCE MAY AFFECT
MAJOR LOCAL TO MA. J OR
HONG KONG’S
ENVIRONMENTAL INTERNATIONAL MANUFACTURING
INDUSTRIES.
’’IT ALSO ADVISES MANUFACTURERS WHERE THE! CAN OBTAIN TECHNICAL ADVICE ON COMPLYING WITH THE LEGISLATION."
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THE BOOK WAS A HANDY POINT OF FIRST REFERENCE FOR MANUFACTURERS WISHING TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROLS.
"IT CONTAINS MANY USEFUL ADDRESSES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS FOR MORE DETAILED ENQUIRIES,” HE SAID.
THE GUIDE WAS FI RST PUBLISHED LAST YEAR \ND WAS WELL RECEIVED BY MANUFACTURERS. THIS YEAR 1'1’ IS BEING GIVEN A WIDER CIRCULATION WITH COPIES BEING SENT TO I’HE MAJOR INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATIONS AND MANUFACTURERS IN THOSE INDUSTRIES MOST LIKELY TO BE AFFECTED BY ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION.
--------0-----------
SEMINAR TO INTRODUCE WORK-BASED CH ILD (’ARE SERVICE
*****
ABOUT 120 EMPLOYERS IN COMMERCI AL AND INDUSTRIAL SECTORS WILL ATTEND A SEMINAR THIS THURSDAY (FEBRUARY 25) ON WORK-BASED CHILD CARE SERVICE, AN EMPLOYER-SPONSORED CHILD CARE FACILITY’ FOR STAFF.
ORGANISED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, THE SEMINAR IS AIMED AT PROMOTING EMPLOYERS’ UNDERSTANDING OF AND PARTICIPATION IN THE SETTING UP OF EMPLOYER-SPONSORED CHILD CARE CENTRES.
"OVERSEAS EXPERIENCE SUGGESTED THAT EMPLOYER-SPONSORED CHILD CARE CENTRES HAD MADE VALUABLE CONTRIBUTION IN IMPROVING STAFF MORALE: AND IN BOOSTING THE IMAGE OF 'THE COMPANY, IN ADDITION 'TO REDUCING STAFF TURNOVER AND ATTRACT I NG MORE NEW RECRUITS," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.
AT THE SEMINAR, A DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL TRAINING AND RESOURCE CENTRE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION FOR ASIA FROM SINGAPORE, DR KHOO KIM CHOO, WILL SPEAK ON HER EXPERIENCE.
/REPRESENTATIVES FROM
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
8
REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE HONG KONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORATION AND THE HONG KONG CHRIST IAN SERVICE Will, GIVE TALKS ON THE MANAGEMENT OF THE FIRST WORK-BASED CHILD (ARE CENTRE IN THE TERRITORY.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING OF THE SEMINAR WILL BE THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (FAMILY WELFARE) Ol- THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, MR ALFRED CHUI WING-MAN.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
MEDIA R E PRES E N 'I’ AT IV ES WHICH WILL BE HELD AT CONCORD VIEW, 1 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN THURSDAY (FEBRUARY 25).
ARE INVITED TO COVER THE ROOM I, EIGHTH ELOOR, NEW WORLD (’HAI, BEGINNING AT 9.30
SEMINAR HARBOUR AM ON
--------0----------
LAST LOT OF 1993 PROOF COIN SETS ON SALE *****
RESIDENTS ARE REMINDED THAT THERE IS A LAST CHANCE TO BUY THE HONG KONG 1993 PROOF COIN SETS WITH THE ARRIVAL OF THE FINAL CONSIGNMENT ON WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY 24).
’’THE INITIAL LOT OF THE COMMEMORATIVE PROOF COIN SETS, PRICED AT $380 EACH, HAS BEEN SOLD OUT,” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE OFFICE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND SAID.
THE FINAL BATCH COMPRISES AN ADDITIONAL 1,000 SETS OF PROOF COINS ALLOCATED TO HONG KONG, AND A SMALL BALANCE OF THE 25,000 SETS THAT ARE AVAILABLE TO THE TERRITORY, HE ADDED.
NO FURTHER 1993 PROOF COIN SETS WILL BE STRUCK. WORLDWIDE SALES WILL BE LIMITED TO 30,000 SETS.
“DON’T MISS THIS ONCE-ONLY OPPORTUNITY. BECAUSE OF HEAVY DEMAND, SALES WILL BE RESTRICTED TO TWO SETS PER PERSON ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE PROOF COIN SETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT HONGKONG BANK HEAD OFFICE AT 1 QUEEN'S ROAD CENTRAL AND THE EIGHT OVERSEAS TRUST BANK BRANCHES AT GLOUCESTER ROAD, CENTRAL, NORTH POINT (379-381 KING'S ROAD), HUNG HOM, MONG KOK, TSUEN WAN, YUEN LONG AND SHA TIN (TAI WAI).
A SMALL QUANTITY OF THE HONG KONG 1993 BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED COIN SETS, AT $128 EACH, IS STILL AVAILABLE AT THE TWO BANKS.
THE ISSUE OF BOTH THE PROOF AND BRILLIANT UNC1RULATED COIN COLLECTIONS IS TO COMMEMORATE THE INTRODUCTION OF THE NEW-DESIGN COINS FEATURING A BAUH1NIA FLOWER, WHICH ARE GRADUALLY REPLACING THE TERRITORY'S PRESENT CIRCULATION.
------0-------
/9 ........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
9
18 OFFICERS COMPLETE 444 YEARS’ SERVICE * * * * *
SEVEN OFFICERS IN THE CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH (CSB) RECEIVED THEIR RETIREMENT SOUVENIRS IN THE FORM OF PEWTER PLAQUES TODAY (MONDAY).
THE PLAQUES, A TOKEN OF THE GOVERNMENT’S APPRECIATION OF STAFF CONTRIBUTION, WERE PRESENTED TO CSB OFFICERS FOR THE FIRST TIME.
IN ADDITION, 11 OTHER OFFICERS WERE PRESENTED LONG AND MERITORIOUS SERVICE AWARDS.
OFFICIATING AT THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY, DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE MRS ALICE LAI SAID THE 18 OFFICERS TOGETHER RECORDED A TOTAL OF 444 YEARS OF SERVICE.
MRS LAI DESCRIBED THE ACCUMULATION OF THEIR SERVICE AS "STUNNING".
"TODAY’S CEREMONY IS A SMALL TOKEN TO SHOW THE GOVERNMENT’S APPRECIATION OF YOUR SERVICE AND STAUNCH SUPPORT OVER THE YEARS," SHE TOLD THE RECIPIENTS.
LAN KWAI FONG INQUIRY
*****
THE OFFICE OF MR JUSTICE BOKHARY IS WRITING UP THE FINAL REPORT OF THE INQUIRY INTO LAN KU\I FONG INCIDENT DUR I NG THE WEEKEND AND TODAY (MONDAY).
-----0-------
FRESH WATER ('UIS
* * *
OWING TO WASTE DETECTION WORKS ON WATER M M NS , THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED BY FRESH WATER CUTS FROM WEDNESDAY (FEBRUARY 24) NIGHT TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY:
♦ ALL PREMISES BOUNDED BY WANG TAI' ROAD, CASTLE PEAK ROAD AND YUEN LONG NULLMI, MTN LONG;
♦ ALL FLATS IN CHEUNG WAH ESTATP, FANLING;
* ALL PREMISES BOUNDED BY BATTERS STREET, NING PO STREET, SHANGHAI STREET AND KANSU STREIT, NAU MA TEI; AND
/*ALL PREMISES
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
10
* ALL PREMISES AT TUNG TAU TSUEN ROAD, TUNG LUNG ROAD, TUNG EAT ROAD, TUNG KWONG ROAD, ( l|O| HUNG ROAD AND TA I SHING STREET; INCLUDING FLATS AT TAK MING HOUSE AND KAI MING HOUSE OF KAI TAK ESTATE AS WELL AS THOSE AT TAI TUNG HOUSE, EU TUNG HOUSE, YIU TUNG HOUSE AND YUE TUNG HOUSE OF TUNG TAU ESTATE, WONG I’AI SIN.
THE WATER CUTS IN YUEN LONG \ND FAN!, I NG WILL START AT 10 PM WHILE THOSE IN YAU MA TEI AND WONG TAI SIN KILL BEGIN AT II PM.
--------0-----------
WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * t ♦
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 53.2 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 311.632 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 183.600 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 31.3 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
------0-------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCIIANGF FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAI-
NET I NJECTJON/WITHDRAW\L TODAY
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/1.00 OFFER TWI I I 1.0 I-O..V 22.2.1993
$ MILLION
2,000
+ 150
2,150
NII
-515
1,635
/HONG KONG ........
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1993
11
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS Y 1 ELD TE RM ISSI I ( Ol'PON PR ICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.74 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 102.42 3.50
1 MONTH 2.85 PC'!' 18 MONTHS 2408 5.50 101.12 3.63
3 MONTHS 2.94 PCT 21 MONTHS 21 I I 4.375 101.39 3.82
6 MONTHS 3.05 PCT 24 MONTHS 2502 4.625 101.38 4.06
12 MONTHS 3.11 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 9.900MN
CLOSED 22 FEBRUARY 1993
------0-------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
ANALYSTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE BY TRANSPORT MODE TN 1992 ............ 1
SENIOR HEALTH OFFICIALS OFF TO BEIJING ON AIDS TESTS ............ 8
THREE MORE HIV-INFECTED CASES CONFIRMED ......................... 8
LEGCO MEETS TOMORROW ............................................ 9
FEWER TRANSPORT COMPLAINTS TN LAST QUARTER OF 1992 ............. 10
TAC BRIEFED ON KMB FORWARD PLANNING PROGRAMME .................. 10
AUCTION OF LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS .................... 12
LONDON OFFICE STAFF HONOURED IN LEADERSHIP AWARD ............... 12
MORE RETURN TO VIETNAM ......................................... 13
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS .............. 14
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
1 5
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
1
ANALYSIS OF EXTERNAL TRADE BY TRANSPORT MODE IN 1992 * * ♦ ♦ »
THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE BY OCEAN ACCOUNTED FOR 52.6% OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE LAST YEAR. ANOTHER 17.7% WAS TRANSPORTED BY AIR.
THE REST 29.7% INCLUDED SHIPMENT BY LAND, BY RIVER, AS POSTAL PARCELS, AND HAND-CARRIED GOODS BY PASSENGERS ON VARIOUS MEANS OF TRANSPORT.
THESE STATISTICS ARE RELEASED TODAY (TUESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT. •
SHIPMENT BY OCEAN AMOUNTED TO $988 BILLION IN 1992, WITH AN INCREASE OF 22.3% OVER THAT IN 1991. HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE BY AIR WENT UP BY 17.7% TO $333 BILLION IN 1992.
THE UNITED STATES REMAINED THE LARGEST COUNTRY OF DESTINATION FOR HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS (INCLUDING DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS) BY OCEAN, ACCOUNTING FOR A SHARE OF 31.9% IN VALUE TERMS IN 1992. THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS BY OCEAN TO THE UNITED STATES WENT UP BY 24.8% IN 1992.
LAST YEAR, CHINA OVERTOOK GERMANY TO BECOME THE SECOND LARGEST DESTINATION FOR HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS BY OCEAN. THE VALUE OF SEABORNE EXPORTS TO CHINA INCREASED BY 76.1% IN 1992 OVER 1991, WHILE THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS BY OCEAN TO GERMANY DECREASED BY 3.9%.
JAPAN WAS THE LARGEST SUPPLIER OF HONG KONG’S IMPORTS BY OCEAN, ACCOUNTING FOR A SHARE OF 27.9% IN VALUE IN 1992. THE VALUE OF IMPORTS BY OCEAN FROM JAPAN WENT UP BY 36.5% IN 1992 OVER 1991.
INCREASES WERE ALSO RECORDED IN SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM THE OTHER MAJOR SUPPLIERS: TAIWAN (+14.8%), THE UNITED STATES (+14.9%), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+28.4%) AND CHINA (+19.3%).
IN 1992, THE UNITED STATES MARKET ACCOUNTED FOR 29.0% OF THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS BY AIR IN 1992. THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS BY AIR TO THE UNITED STATES INCREASED BY 16.1% OVER 1991.
THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS BY AIR TO MOST OTHER MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DESTINATION ALSO WENT UP, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF GERMANY (-6.6%).
AIRBORNE IMPORTS FROM ALL MAJOR SUPPLIERS INCREASED CONSIDERABLY IN 1992. THE PERCENTAGE INCREASES IN VALUE IN 1992 OVER 1991 WERE: JAPAN (+12.5%), THE UNITED STATES (+27.1%), SINGAPORE (+36.6%), TAIWAN (+32.8%) AND SWITZERLAND (+19.2%).
/SIGNIFICANT INCREASES .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
2
SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF REEXPORTS BY OCEAN FOR MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $22,109 MILLION OR 35.0%), CLOTHING (BY $10,999 MILLION OR 22.9%) AND FOOTWEAR (BY $9,762 MILLION OR 41.9%) AS WELL AS IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS BY OCEAN FOR ROAD VEHICLES (BY $15,841 MILLION OR 108.9%) AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $9,951 MILLION OR 38.3%).
HOWEVER, CONSIDERABLE DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY OCEAN FOR OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES (BY $1,595 MILLION OR 27.1%), MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY PRINTED MATTERS (BY $1,449 MILLION OR 12.6%) AND ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS (BY $1,143 MILLION OR 20.0%).
COMPARING 1992 WITH 1991, SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS BY AIR FOR ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, ELECTRICAL PARTS (BY $9,046 MILLION OR 23.6%) AND OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES (BY $3,979 MILLION OR 35.4%).
ON EXPORTS BY AIR, INCREASES WERE RECORDED FOR RE-EXPORTS OF PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY $3,376 MILLION OR 32.2%), ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, ELECTRICAL PARTS (BY $3,254 MILLION OR 23.0%) AND CLOTHING (BY $3,073 MILLION OR 21.9%); AND DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES (BY $2,754 MILLION OR 25.0%) AND ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, ELECTRICAL PARTS (BY $1,678 MILLION OR 18.0%).
HOWEVER, SIGNIFICANT DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY AIR FOR CLOTHING (BY $1,804 MILLION OR 7.6%) AND PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY $1,525 MILLION OR 11.2%).
DETAILED STATISTICS OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE ANALYSED BY MODE OF TRANSPORT ARE PUBLISHED IN THE DECEMBER 1992 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE" REPORT WHICH IS NOW ON SALE AT $52 A COPY.
THE REPORT IS AVAILABLE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL AND THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON THE 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI .
ENQUIRIES REGARDING REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION TO THE REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG (TEL 842 8802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE STATISTICS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL 582 4915).
/TABLE 1 .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
3
TABLE 1 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY MODE OF TRANSPORT
MODE OF TRANSPORT/ TYPE OF TRADE
JAN-DEC 1992
HKD Mn.
JAN-DEC 1991
HKD Mn.
YEAR-ON-YEAR CHANGE
HKD Mn. %
OCEAN
DOMESTIC EXPORTS RE-EXPORTS TOTAL EXPORTS IMPORTS TOTAL BY OCEAN 102,913 417,865 520,778 467,720 988,497 107,434 324,010 431,445 376,585 808,030 + + ♦ + 4,521 93,854 89,333 91,134 180,467 + + + + 4.2 29.0 20.7 24.2 22.3
AIR DOMESTIC EXPORTS 70,173 69,171 + 1,002 + 1.4
RE-EXPORTS 91,795 74,115 + 17,680 + 23.9
TOTAL EXPORTS 161,969 143,286 + 18,683 + 13.0
IMPORTS 170,686 139,348 + 31,337 + 22.5
TOTAL BY AIR 332,654 282,635 50,020 + 17.7
OTHERS DOMESTIC EXPORTS 61,037 54,441 6,597 + 12.1
RE-EXPORTS 181,169 136,715 + 44,454 32.5
TOTAL EXPORTS 242,207 191,155 + 51,051 + 26.7
IMPORTS 316,890 263,048 + 53,842 + 20.5
TOTAL BY OTHERS 559,096 454,204 + 104,893 + 23.1
ALL MODES OF TRANSPORT DOMESTIC EXTORTS 234,123 231,045 + 3,078 + 1.3
RE-EXPORTS 690,829 534,841 + 155,989 + 29.2
TOTAL EXPORTS 924,953 765,886 159,067 + 20.8
IMPORTS 955,295 778,982 4- 176,313 + 22.6
TOTAL TRADE 1,880,218 1,544,868 + 335,380 + 21.7
/TABLE 2 .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
4
TABLE 2 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY OCEAN BY MAJOR TRADING PARTNER
MAJOR TRADING PARTNER JAN-DEC 1992 HKD Mn. JAN-DEC 1991 HKD Mn. YEAR-ON-YEAR CHANGE
HKD Mn. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS (COUNTRY OF DESTINATION) -
UNITED STATES 38,494 37,610 + 884 + 2.3
GERMANY 9,716 11,861 — 2,144 — 18. 1
UNITED KINGDOM 9,132 10,093 — 960 9.5
JAPAN 4,555 4,666 — 111 2.4
TAIWAN 3,586 3,564 + 22 + 0.6
ALL COUNTRIES 102,913 107,434 - 4,521 - 4.2
RE-EXPORTS (COUNTRY OF DESTINATION)
UNITED STATES 127,544 95,451 + 32,093 + 33.6
CHINA 33,85-7 18,722 + 15,135 + 80.8
JAPAN 27,750 21,203 + 6,548 + 30.9
GERMANY 26,920 26,243 + 677 + 2.6
UNITED KINGDOM 17,057 12,264 + 4,793 + 39.1
ALL COUNTRIES 417,865 324,010 + 93,854 + 29.0
TOTAL EXPORTS
(COUNTRY OF DESTINATION)
UNITED STATES 166,038 133,061 + 32,977 + 24.8
CHINA 36,803 20,903 + 15,900 + 76.1
GERMANY 36,637 38,104 — 1,467 3.9
JAPAN 32,305 25,868 + 6,437 + 24.9
UNITED KINGDOM 26,190 22,357 + 3,833 + 17.1
ALL COUNTRIES 520,778 431,445 + 89,333 + 20.7
IMPORTS (SUPPLIER)
JAPAN 130,475 95,605 + 34,870 + 36.5
TAIWAN 76,498 66,647 + 9,850 + 14.8
UNITED STATES 39,560 34,426 + 5,1 33 + 14.9
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 38,307 29,845 + 8,462 + 28.4
CHINA 37,260 31,243 + 6,017 + 19.3
ALL COUNTRIES 467,720 376,585 + 91,134 + 24.2
/TABLE 3 .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
5
TABLE 3 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY AIR BY MAJOR TRADING PARTNER
MAJOR TRADING PARTNER JAN-DEC 1992 HKD Mn. JAN-DEC 1991 HKD Mn. YEAR-ON-YEAR CHANGE
HKD Mn. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS (COUNTRY OF DESTINATION) -
UNITED STATES 26,061 25,166 4- 895 4 3.6
SINGAPORE 7,826 5,790 ♦ 2,035 4 35.1
JAPAN 6,380 6,902 - 522 — 7.6
GERMANY 6,199 7,414 — 1,214 — 16.4
UNITED KINGDOM 3,399 3,599 - 200 — 5.5
ALL COUNTRIES 70,173 69,171 4 1,002 4 1.4
RE-EXPORTS (COUNTRY OF DESTINATION)
UNITED STATES 20,933 15,316 4 5,617 4 36.7
JAPAN 9,643 8,249 4 1,394 4 16.9
TAIWAN 9,244 7,633 4- 1,611 4 21.1
GERMANY 6,152 5,807 4 344 4 5.9
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 5,898 5,366 4 532 4 9.9
ALL COUNTRIES 91,795 74,115 4 17,680 4 23.9
TOTAL EXPORTS (COUNTRY OF DESTINATION)
UNITED STATES 46,994 40,482 4 6,511 4 16.1
JAPAN 16,024 15,151 4 873 4 5.8
SINGAPORE 12,511 10,085 4 2,426 4 24.1
GERMANY 12,351 13,221 — 870 — 6.6
TAIWAN 12,152 10,124 4 2,029 4 20.0
ALL COUNTRIES 161,969 143,286 4 18,683 4 13.0
IMPORTS (SUPPLIER)
JAPAN 35,380 31,438 4 3,942 4 12.5
UNITED STATES 30,849 24,278 4 6,571 4 27.1
SINGAPORE 12,062 8,827 4 3,235 4 36.6
TAIWAN 10,500 7,908 4 2,592 4 32.8
SWITZERLAND 9,613 8,065 4 1,548 4 19.2
ALL COUNTRIES 170,686 139,348 4 31,337 4 22.5
/TABLE 4 .......
6
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
• TABLE 4 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY OCEAN BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION
MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION JAN-DEC 1992 HKD Mn. JAN-DEC 1991 HKD Mn. YEAR-ON-YEAR CHANGE
HKD Mn. X
DOMESTIC EXPORTS ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 51,996 49,363 ♦ 2,634 4 5.3
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY PRINTED MATTER) 10,076 11,525 - 1,449 - 12.6
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 9,007 9,479 472 — i 5.0
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 4,578 5,721 - • 1,143 — 20.0
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 4,291 5,888 - 1,595 - 27.1
RE-EXPORTS MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 85,196 63,087 ♦ 22,109 4 35.0
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 59,091 1R,092 ♦ 10,999 4 22.9
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 43,218 35,026 ♦ 8,192 4 23.4
FOOTWEAR 33,081 23,320 ♦ 9,762 4 41.9
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 24,369 17,851 ♦ 6,518 4 36.5
IMPORTS TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS • 66,753 61,667 ♦ 5,086 4 8.2
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 35,915 25,964 4 9,951 4 38.3
ROAD VEHICLES 30,382 14,540 4 15,841 4 108.9
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 28,533 24,038 4 4,495 4 18.7
GENERAL INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT, AND MACHINE PARTS 22,285 14,123 4 8,162 4 57.8
/TABLE 5 .......
7
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
1ABLE 5 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY AIR BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION
MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION JAN-DEC 1992 HKD Mn. JAN-DEC 1991 HKD Mn. YEAR-ON-YEAR CHANGE
HKD Mn. X
DOMESTIC EXPORTS
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 21,879 23,683 - 1,804 - 7.6
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 13,760 11,006 ♦ 2,754 ♦ 25.0
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 12,069 13,594 - 1,525 - 11.2
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 11,019 9,341 ♦ 1,678 4 18.0
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY JEWELLERY, GOLDSMITHS’AND SILVERSMITHS’ WARES) 5,846 6,078 - 233 - 3.8
RE-EXPORTS
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 17,400 14,147 + 3,254 4 23.0
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 17,097 14,024 ♦ 3,073 4 21.9
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 13,851 10,475 ♦ 3,376 4 32.2
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 7,893 5,702 ♦ 2,191 4 38.4
NON-METALLIC MINERAL MANUFACTURES 7,819 8,459 - 640 - 7.6
IMPORTS
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 47,430 38,384 ♦ 9,046 4 23.6
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 22,405 20,914 ♦ 1,492 4 7.1
NON-METALLIC MINERAL MANUFACTURES 18,558 15,750 ♦ 2,808 4 17.8
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 15,214 11,235 ♦ 3,979 4 35.4
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 9,798 7,954 ♦ 1,844 4 23.2
--------0
/8 ........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
8
SENIOR HEALTH OFFICIALS OFF TO BEIJING ON AIDS TESTS *****
A HONG KONG DELEGATION CONSISTING OF THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR S H LEE, AND A PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MR VICTOR NG, DEPARTED FOR BEIJING THIS (TUESDAY) MORNING TO HAVE DISCUSSIONS WITH THE CHINESE HEALTH AUTHORITIES ON HIV SCREENING OF FREQUENT VISITORS TO THE COUNTRY.
THE DELEGATION WILL BE MEETING THEIR CHINESE COUNTERPARTS TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE AIRPORT BEFORE DEPARTURE, MRS WONG SAID THE VISIT WAS A CONTINUATION OF THE DIALOGUE WITH THE CHINESE HEALTH AUTHORITIES.
"OUR MISSION IS TO REFLECT HONG KONG PEOPLE’S CONCERN TO THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES, TO BETTER UNDERSTAND CHINA’S ARRANGEMENTS FOR HIV TESTS AT THE BORDER CHECKPOINTS AND, TOGETHER, TO EXPLORE WAYS OF MINIMISING INCONVENIENCE TO TRAVELLERS, PARTICULARLY FOR FREQUENT TRAVELLERS FROM HONG KONG.
"ALL OPTIONS WILL BE OFFERED FOR DISCUSSION," SHE ADDED.
IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE DELEGATION WOULD RETURN TO HONG KONG ON THURSDAY (FEBRUARY 25).
------0-------
THREE MORE HIV-INFECTED CASES CONFIRMED *****
THREE MEN WERE FOUND TO BE POSITIVE FOR THE HIV ANTIBODY TEST LAST MONTH, BRINGING THE NUMBER OF HIV-INFECTED PERSONS IN HONG KONG TO 340.
SPEAKING AT A MONTHLY MEDIA SESSION, THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH’S CONSULTANT PHYSICIAN (SPECIAL PREVENTIVE PROGRAMME), DR S S LEE, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) NO NEW AIDS CASE WAS REPORTED DURING THE MONTH.
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF CONFIRMED AIDS CASES IS 73 WITH 49 DEATHS. THE 24 OTHERS ARE EITHER UNDER COUNSELLING AND TREATMENT OR HAVE LEFT THE TERRITORY.
OF THE 340 PERSONS INFECTED, 239 GOT THE INFECTION SEXUALLY, SEVEN WERE INTRAVENOUS DRUG-USERS, AND 64 GOT THE INFECTION THROUGH CONTAMINATED BLOOD OR BLOOD PRODUCTS BEFORE 1985 WHEN HIV ANTIBODY TEST AND SAFE HEAT-TREATED CLOTTING CONCENTRATES WERE NOT AVAILABLE.
FOR THE REMAINING 30, THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE WAS INADEQUATE FOR CLASSIFICATION.
/UNDER THE .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
9
UNDER THE HIV SURVEILLANCE PROGRAMME WHICH STARTED IN 1985, A TOTAL OF 259,776 BLOOD SPECIMENS HAVE BEEN TESTED FOR THE HIV ANTIBODY.
THE HONG KONG RED CROSS BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE HAS ALSO SCREENED ALL BLOOD DONORS FOR AIDS.
UP TO LAST MONTH, 1,195,947 UNITS OF BLOOD HAD BEEN TESTED AND 26 DONORS WERE FOUND POSITIVE.
------0-------
LEGCO MEETS TOMORROW
******
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL HOLD TWO MOTION DEBATES ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW AND SHORTAGE OF NURSES AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
THE MOTION ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW WILL BE MOVED BY THE HON MRS MIRIAM LAU AND THE OTHER BY THE HON MICHAEL HO.
REV THE HON FUNG CHI-WOOD WILL MOVE A MOTION UNDER INTERPRETATION AND GENERAL CLAUSES ORDINANCE.
MEMBERS WILL ASK A TOTAL OF 21 QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER FOUR BILLS AT THE MEETING.
OF THE BILLS, MERCHANT SHIPPING (LIMITATION OF SHIPOWNER LIABILITY) BILL AND FILM CENSORSHIP (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS. DEBATES ON THEM ARE DUE TO BE ADJOURNED.
DEBATES ON THE OTHER BILLS WILL BE RESUMED. THEY ARE DUE TO GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE GIVEN A THIRD READING.
THEY ARE PROTECTION OF WAGES ON INSOLVENCY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 AND HOUSING (AMENDMENT) BILL 1992.
ALSO, THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY WILL MOVE A MOTION UNDER PUBLIC FINANCE ORDINANCE.
THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS WILL PRESENT THE LI PO CHUN CHARITABLE TRUST FUND ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD SEPTEMBER 1, 1991 TO AUGUST 31, 1992. THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER WILL PRESENT THE TRUSTEE’S REPORT ON THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS FUND FOR THE YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 1992.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OBSERVE THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SITTING AND THEY MAY MAKE RESERVATIONS FOR SEATS IN THE PUBLIC GALLERY BY TEL 869 9492.
0 ---------
/10........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
10
FEWER TRANSPORT COMPLAINTS IN LAST QUARTER OF 1992 *****
THE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS/SUGGESTIONS RECEIVED BY THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE’S TRANSPORT COMPLAINTS UNIT (TCU) IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF LAST YEAR DROPPED BY SEVEN PER CENT TO 2,704 COMPARED WITH 2,894 IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER.
THE DECREASE IS ATTRIBUTABLE MAINLY TO FEWER COMPLAINTS AGAINST RAIL SERVICES (-64 PER CENT FROM 76 TO 27 CASES); FERRY (-58 PER CENT FROM 64 TO 27 CASES); GREEN MINTBUS SERVICES (-30 PER CENT FROM 172 TO 121 CASES), ENFORCEMENT ACTION (-16 PER CENT FROM 551 TO 465 CASES) AND TAXI MALPRACTICES (-3 PER CENT FROM 773 TO 749 CASES).
DURING THE PERIOD FROM OCTOBER I TO DECEMBER 31 LAST YEAR, DECREASE IN THE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST RAIL SERVICES IS LARGELY ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE SIGNIFICANT DROP IN COMPLAINTS AGAINST HONGKONG TRAMWAYS, FROM 46 IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER TO 18.
THIS IS DUE TO FEWER COMPLAINTS AGAINST THE USE OF ATRHORNS BY TRAM DRIVERS.
THE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST FERRY SERVICES ALSO DECREASED SIGNIF1CANTLY FROM 64 IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER TO 27.
COMPLAINTS AGAINST TAXI MALPRACTICES ALSO DROPPED SLIGHTLY BY THREE PER CENT TO 749 COMPARED WITH 773 TN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER. OF THE TOTAL OF 276 RECEIVED, 37 PER CENT WERE RELATED TO OVERCHARGING.
ON ROAD MAINTENANCE, THE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS ROSE TO 175 FROM THE PREVIOUS QUARTER OF 146. THE COMPLAINTS WERE MAINLY RELATED TO MALFUNCTIONING OF TRAFFIC SIGNS AND AIDS.
------0-------
TAC BRIEFED ON KMB FORWARD PLANNING PROGRAMME
*****
THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) AT ITS MEETING TODAY (TUESDAY) WAS BRIEFED ON THE FORWARD PLANNING PROGRAMME OF THE KOWLOON MOTOR BUS (KMB) FOR 1993-1997.
TAC MEMBERS WERE ALSO INFORMED OF THE FINDINGS OF THE TRAVEL CHARACTERISTICS SURVEY 1992 AND THE PROGRESS OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON THE TAXI POLICY REVIEW WHICH WOULD END ON FEBRUARY 28.
AT THE MEETING, MEMBERS WERE INFORMED THAT UNDER KMB’S ROUTE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME, 38 NEW ROUTES AND 210 SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS WERE PLANNED TO CATER FOR DEMAND FROM NEW DEVELOPEMNT AREAS.
FOUR NEW CROSS-HARBOUR BUS ROUTES WERE PROPOSED THIS YEAR, INCLUDING ONE VTA THE CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL AND THREE VIA EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING.
/MEMBERS NOTED .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
- 11
MEMBERS NOTED THAT THE SPECIAL MORNING PEAK SERVICES TO CENTRAL AND SOUTH KOWLOON INTRODUCED TN MID-1991 AND SUBSEQUENT EXPANSION OF SERVICES TO TSUEN WAN, KWAI TSING AND TAI PO LAST YEAR HAD HELPED RELIEVE THE MTR CONGESTION ALONG THE NATHAN ROAD CORRIDOR DURING THE SUMMER.
THEY ASKED THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT TO CLOSELY MONITOR THESE SERVICES. THEY ALSO ASKED KMB TO STRENGTHEN ITS SERVICE IF NECESSARY.
ON AIR-CONDITIONED BUS SERVICES, KMB PROPOSES TO EXPAND ITS FLEET FROM 510 LAST YEAR TO 732 IN 1997 WHILE THE NUMBER OF NON-AIR-CONDITIONED BUSES WILL INCREASE FROM 2,623 TO 2,830.
KMB’S DEPOT PROGRAMME, PATRONAGE FORECAST AND ITS FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS WERE ALSO TABLED FOR CONSIDERATION.
MEMBERS WERE ALSO BRIEFED ON THE FINDINGS OF THE TRAVEL CHARACTERISTICS SURVEY 1992 WHICH COLLECTED UP-TO-DATE DATA FROM DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE TERRITORY FOR FUTURE TRANSPORT PLANNING STUDIES.
MEMBERS NOTED THAT THE NUMBER OF LICENSED CARS HAD DOUBLED SINCE 1973 BUT THE PERCENTAGE OF CAR-OWNING HOUSEHOLDS HAD REMAINED THE SAME AT 13 PER CENT FOR THE PAST 20 YEARS.
THE TRIPS MADE IN AN AVERAGE WEEKDAY LAST YEAR WAS 10,300,000, ALMOST DOUBLED THE NUMBER MADE IN 1973 AND 25 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN 1981. SUCH INCREASE WAS DUE TO CHANGES IN AGE STRUCTURE AND IN LAND USE, INCREASED WEALTH, AND THE AVAILABILITY OF BETTER TRANSPORT FACILITIES.
ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW, MEMBERS WERE TOLD THAT UP TO FEBRUARY 2, A TOTAL OF 84 WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS AND 277 TELEPHONE CALLS HAD BEEN RECEIVED SINCE THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION BEGAN ON OCTOBER 30.
TAC MEMBERS HAD ATTENDED 28 MEETINGS, SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS, RADIO INTERVIEWS AND TV PROGRAMMES INCLUDING 16 MEETINGS WITH THE DISTRICT BOARDS DURING THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION.
A FURTHER MEETING HAS BEEN SCHEDULED BEFORE THE CONSULTATION ENDS.
A DETAILED ANALYSIS OF THE VIEWS RECEIVED IN THE CONSULTATION WILL BE AVAILABLE IN APRIL OR MAY .
MEMBERS ALSO DISCUSSED THE TRANSPORT COMPLAINT UNIT QUARTERLY REPORT NO. 3 FOR THE PERIOD FROM OCTOBER 1 TO DECEMBER 31, 1992.
- 0 -----------
/12 .
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
12
AUCTION OF LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD ANOTHER AUCTION OF LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS ON SATURDAY AT 9.30 AM AT THEATRE I, HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE.
A TOTAL OF 50 LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR BIDDING. THEY ARE:
FB1178 FB718 FA1288 FBI 318 FB8885
EY4898 ♦ AV88 ♦ XX68 ♦ 989 EZ713
♦FG919 FB8889 FB8882 ♦ HK19 FB8863
FL125 ♦HK123 ♦ 136 ♦ 2 ♦ FG54
FB2866 FB928 FA128 FB547 FB1813
♦ 303 ♦ 899 ♦ 44 FB1913 ER1223
AP7728 FB275 AS238 ♦CK1212 FB3736
FB133 CL95 ♦ 3680 FB8896 ♦FF345
♦FF838 FB405 FB738 FB951 FB8208
FA356 ♦ HK99 ♦HK868 ♦ FF25 FB1136
* SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK (NOT TRANSFERABLE)
SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS MUST PAY BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.
A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN REMINDED BIDDERS THAT THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK WOULD BE ASSIGNED ONLY TO A VEHICLE REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE AUCTION.
THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION MUST BE PRODUCED IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE AUCTION IF THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK IS TO BE REGISTERED UNDER THE NAME OF BODY CORPORATE.
PROCEEDS OF THE AUCTION, AFTER DEDUCTION OF EXPENSES, WILL AS USUAL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND.
THE COMING AUCTION WILL BE THE 189TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973.
-----0 -----
LONDON OFFICE STAFF HONOURED IN LEADERSHIP AWARD
*****
A STAFF MEMBER OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT OFFICE IN LONDON TONIGHT (TUESDAY) RECEIVED AN AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE CHINESE COMMUNITY IN THE UK.
MR PETER MA KING-MAN, SENIOR COMMUNITY SERVICES OFFICER IN LONDON OFFICE, WAS ONE OF THE 10 AWARDEES OF THE 1993 LEADERSHIP \WARDS SPONSORED BY COURVOISIER S.A..
/THE LEADERSHIP .......
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
13
THE LEADERSHIP AWARDS SOUGHT TO GIVE PUBLIC RECOGNITION TO INDIVIDUAL OVERSEAS CHINESE FOR THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS AND DEDICATION TO THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH THEY LIVE. SIMILAR AWARDS HAD BEEN OFFERED IN CANADA, THE USA AND AUSTRALIA SINCE 1986.
THE UK AWARD WAS OFFERED FOR THE FIRST TIME AND WAS GIVEN TO CANDIDATES WHO EXCEL IN THE FIELDS OF ACADEMIC, ARTS, CATERING DEVELOPMENT, SERVICES FOR THE CHINESE COMMUNITY, CHINESE CULINARY ART, ENTERPRISE, FINANCE, PROFESSIONALS, RETAIL AND SERVICES FOR THE UK COMMUNITY.
COMMENTING ON THE AWARD, MR MA SAID IT WAS A RECOGNITION OF THE EFFORTS OF TWO GROUPS OF PEOPLE WHO HAD BEEN WORKING WITH DEDICATION FOR THE CHINESE COMMUNITIES IN THE UK.
THEY WERE THE STAFF MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY SERVICES DIVISION IN THE LONDON OFFICE AND HUNDREDS OF VOLUNTEERS WORKING IN OVER 140 CHINESE COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY.
HE HOPED THE NEXT RECIPIENTS OF THE LEADERSHIP AWARD WOULD GO TO THESE VOLUNTEERS WHOSE CONTRIBUTION AND COMMITMENT SHOULD BE ACKNOWLEDGED.
AGED 44, MR MA JOINED HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE IN 1968. HE HAS BEEN A SENIOR EXECUTIVE OFFICER IN THE LONDON OFFICE SINCE 1989 AND IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE LIAISON WORK WITH THE CHINESE AND THE UK COMMUNITIES.
THE AWARDS PRESENTATION DINNER WAS HELD IN LONDON CHINATOWN. THE COMMISSIONER, MR JOHN YAXLEY, WAS ALSO PRESENT AS A GUEST OF HONOUR.
-----0------
MORE RETURN TO VIETNAM *****
A GROUP OF 174 VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS TODAY (TUESDAY) RETURNED TO VIETNAM UNDER THE UNHCR’S VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME.
COMPRISING 58 MEN, 44 WOMEN, 41 BOYS AND 31 THE 144TH BATCH TO GO BACK UNDER THE PROGRAMME.
GIRLS, THEY WERE
THE GROUP BROUGHT TO 707 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS WHO HAVE RETURNED VOLUNTARILY THIS YEAR, AND TO 27,019 THE 1OTAL NUMBER OF RETURNEES SINCE THE PROGRAMME STARTED IN MARCH 1989.
--------0-----------
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
- 14
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS ♦ » * » »
TENDER DATE 23 FEB 93 23 FEB 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q308 Y386
AMOUNT APPLIED HK$4,760 MN HK$1,720 MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HK$l,000 MN HK$200 MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 2.90 PCT 3.34 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 2.90 PCT 3.35 PCT
PRO RATA RATIO ABOUT 56 PCT ABOUT 67 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 2.94 PCT 3.44 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 1 MARCH 1993 -
TENDER DATE 2 MAR 93 2 MAR 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q309 H359
ISSUE DATE 3 MAR 93 3 MAR 93
MATURITY DATE 2 JUNE 93 1 SEPT 93
TENOR 91 DAYS 182 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HK$1,000 + 200 MN HK$400 + 80 MN
-----0------
715 ........
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1993
- 15 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,635
REVERSAL OF LAF +515
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,150
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -145
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,005
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 113.7 *-0.3* 23.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.54 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 102.60 3.35
1 MONTH 2.71 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 5.50 101.38 3.44
3 MONTHS 2.85 PCT 21 MONTHS 241 1 4.375 101.62 3.68
6 MONTHS 2.97 PCT 24 MONTHS 2502 4.625 101.62 3.93
12 MONTHS 3.39 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 1 1 , 7 1 1 MN
CLOSED 23 FEBRUARY 1993
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
CONSTRUCTIVE DIALOGUE IN THE INTEREST OF ALL ................... 1
TALKS ON AIDS TESTS FRANK AND CONSTRUCTIVE ..................... 2
GOVERNOR VISITS SHA TIN ........................................ 3
AIR SERVICES AGREEMENT SIGNED WITH SRI LANKA ................... 4
MORE NON-REFUGEES TO RETURN TO VIETNAM ......................... 5
UNDS TO SUPPORT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS .............. 6
fWO BUILDINGS ON CHEUNG CHAU DECLARED DANGEROUS 7
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 8
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
1
CONSTRUCTIVE DIALOGUE * * *
IN THE INTEREST OF ALL * *
IT WOULD BE IN HONG KONG’S INTEREST AND THE INTEREST OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CHINA AND THE UNITED KINGDOM IF A CONSTRUCTIVE DIALOGUE WITHOUT ANY PRECONDITIONS ON ANYBODY’S PART COULD BE REESTABLISHED, THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER VISITING SHA TIN, THE GOVERNOR SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD MADE IT CLEAR AGAIN AND AGAIN THAT IT WAS HAPPY TO DISCUSS PROPOSALS ON ELECTION ARRANGEMENTS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT ANY PRECONDITIONS IN ANY PLACE WITH CHINESE OFFICIALS.
"BUT, OBVIOUSLY, TALKS WOULD NEED TO AIM AT A CONSTRUCTIVE DIALOGUE," HE SAID.
"I THINK THAT’S WHAT THE COMMUNITY WANTS. IT’S CERTAINLY WHAT I WANT. I DON’T THINK THE COMMUNITY WOULD WANT TALKS TO BE AIMED AT AN INDEFINITE DELAY TO RESOLVING THESE PROBLEMS.
"WHEN WE TALK ABOUT THE NECESSITY OF DEALING WITH THESE ISSUES, WHEN WE TALK ABOUT THE NECESSITY OF GETTING THEM TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AS SOON AS WE REASONABLY CAN, THAT IS NOT AN ULTIMATUM.
"WHAT IT IS IS STATEMENT OF WHAT IS AN ADMINISTRATIVE IMPERATIVE.
"SOONER OR LATER, WE DO HAVE TO DEAL WITH THESE ISSUES. SO IF WE DON’T MOVE AHEAD AS RAPIDLY AS MANY LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS WOULD LIKE, THERE WILL HAVE TO JIE A VIRY GOOD REASON FOR NOT DOING SO."
ASKED ABOUT DEFERRING THE GAZETTING OF THE BILL, THE GOVERNOR SAID: "THE FACT THAT WE’VE ALL ALONG TRIED TO ENSURE THAT WE COULD RESOLVE THIS LEGISLATIVE ISSUE AND THIS ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE ISN’T A POLITICAL TACTIC.
"IT’S A FACT OF ADMINISTRATIVE NECESSITY. WE HAVE TO HAVE THE ARRANGEMENTS AGREED AND IN PLACE FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS THIS YEAR. WE’VE GOT TO HAVE THEM IN PLACE SO THAT PROPER ARRANGEMENTS CAN BE MADE AT A PROPER SPEED."
"SO ALL ALONG, WE’VE SAID THAT WE WANT TO MOVE AHEAD AT A REASONABLE PACE SO THAT WE GIVE THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND THE COMMUNITY THE CHANCE TO GET ARRANGEMENTS IN PLACE IN GOOD TIME," HE ADDED.
"I THEREFORE SAID AND THE GOVERNMENT SAID THAT WE WOULD LIKE TO GET THE LEGISLATION TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BY THE END OF FEBRUARY. WE’VE ALREADY GAZETTED THE BILL ON THE ELECTORAL AND BOUNDARY COMMISSION BUT THERE IS ANOTHER BILL WHICH HAS STILL TO BE GAZETTED.
"NOW, MY OWN JUDGMENT IS IF WE DON’T MEET THE DATE OF THE END OF FEBRUARY, WE’LL HAVE TO HAVE VERY GOOD REASONS FOR NOT MEETING THAT DATE IN ORDER TO EXPLAIN ANY DELAY TO Till' LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WHO OBVIOUSLY WANT TO GET ON WITH THEIR WOKE AND TO THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE."
WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 24, 1993
2
TALKS ON AIDS TESTS ERANK AND CONSTRUCTIVE * ♦ t t ♦
THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID IN BEIJING TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT SHI WAS DELIGHTED BY THE CHINESE HEALTH AUTHORITY’S DECISION TO (’EASE RANDOM HIV SCREENING OF FREQUENT TRAVELLERS TO THE COUNTRY.
MRS WONG MADE THESE REMARKS AFTER A MEETING WITH THE CHINESE MINISTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND OTHER SENIOR CHINESE HEALTH OFFICIALS.
MRS WONG, WHO IS LEADING A HONG KONG DELEGATION TO THE CHINESE CAPITAL, SAID BOTH SIDES HAD A FRANK AND CONSTRUCTIVE EXCHANGE OF VIEWS DURING THE MEETING.
”1 CONVEYED TO THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH, PROFESSOR CHEN MINCHANG, HONG KONG PEOPLE’S DEEP CONCERN OVER THE PRACTICE AND HONG KONG GOVERNMENT’S POSITION ON THE MATTER, INCLUDING OUR MEASURES IN THE PREVENTION AND SURVEILLANCE OF AIDS AND OUR ATTITUDE TO THE SCREENING OF TRAVELLERS," SHE SAID.
"IN RESPONSE, THE CHINESE OFFICIALS CONFIRMED THAT HIV TESTING OF FREQUENT TRAVELLERS AT BORDER CHECKPOINTS HAD NOW CEASED.
"AT THE SAME TIME, THEY ALSO EXPLAINED TO US THEIR CONCERN OVER THE RISK OF AIDS SPREADING IN (’HINA."
IN THE FINAL ANALYSIS, MRS WONG CONTINUED, BOTH SIDES SHARED THE VIEW THAT PUBLIC EDUCATION AND PREVENTION REMAINED THE BEST WEAPONS AGAINST AIDS.
"IN THIS CONTEXT, WE AGREE THERE SHOULD BE CLOSER COOPERATION BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA ON SURVEILLANCE AND PUBLIC EDUCATION ON AIDS," MRS WONG SAID.
SHE ADDED THAT ARRANGEMENTS WOULD BE MADE FOR THE HEALTH AUTHORITIES TO MEET TWICE A YEAR TO EXCHANGE EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STATISTICS ON AIDS AND TO FOSTER CO-OPERATION IN HEALTH EDUCATION.
"THIS WILL HELP US, BOTH HONG KONG AND CHINA, TO BETTER COMBAT AIDS AND FACILITATE CLOSER CO-OPERATION IN THE PREVENTION OF THE DISEASE," MRS WONG SAID.
THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR S II LEE, ALSO ATTENDED TODAY’S MEETING.
/OTHER CHINESE .......
WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 24. 1993
OTHER CHINESE OFFICIALS PRESENT AT THE MEETING INCLUDED DR HE JIESHENG, VICE MINISTER Op PUBLIC HEALTH; DR SONG MINGCHANG, VICE DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL HEALTH AND QUARANTINE ADMINISTRATION; MR ZHOU ZHONGFU, COMMISSIONER OF GUANGZHOU HEALTH AND QUARANTINE SERVICE; DR CHEN XIAOFENG, VICE DIRECTOR, IMPORT FOOD HYGIENE SUPERVISION AND INSPECTION ADMINISTRATION; AND DR LI SHICHUO, VICE DIRECTOR, DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, MINISTRY OF PUBLIC HEALTH.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG
AND
THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR S H LEE, WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG BY DRAGON AIR KA2329 AROUND 2.40 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WISHING TO (’OVER THEIR ARRIVAL ARE REQUESTED TO ASSEMBLE AT Till- GROUND FLOOR I I I- I LOBBY BELOW THE VIP ROOM, KAI TAK AIRPORT, BY 2 PM.
GOVERNOR VISITS SHA TIN ♦ t t ♦ *
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, VISITED SHA TIN THIS (WEDNESDAY) AFTERNOON.
ACCOMPANIED BY THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR ALBERT LAM; THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR DAVID BROWNING; AND THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR CHOY KAN-PUT, THE GOVERNOR FIRST TOURED TIN SUM VILLAGE.
HOUSING 2,000 PEOPLE, THE VILLAGE WAS RE-DEVELOPED IN 1985 UNDER A PILOT VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT SCHEME.
MR PATTEN ALSO VISITED THE EIGHT-STOREY NEW TOWN PLAZA WHERE A COMPUTERISED MUSIC FOUNTAIN IS LOCATED.
THE GOVERNOR THEN VISITED A FAMILY IN THE KWONG LAM HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME COURT.
HE ALSO WENT TO THE KWONG YUEN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE AND MET YOUTHS AND EXECUTIVES OF THE STEWARD KWONG YUEN YOUTH CENTRE. HE CALLED ON A SOCIAL CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY AND A HOME FOR THE AGED IN THE ESTATE.
HE MET SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS IN A COMMUNITY RECEPTION BEFORE CONCLUDING HIS TOUR.
WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 24, 1993
AIR SERVICES AGREEMENT SIGNED WITH SRI LANKA
******
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NETWORK OF FREE-STANDING HONG KONG AIR SERVICES AGREEMENTS IS CRUCIAL TO THE MAINTENANCE OF HONG KONG’S STATUS AS A CENTRE OF INTERNATIONAL AND REGIONAL AVIATION, THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MRS ANSON CHAN, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE SIGNING CEREMONY OF THE HONG KONG/SRI LANKA AIR SERVICES AGREEMENT, MRS CHAN SAID THE AGREEMENT WAS THE NINTH AGREEMENT SIGNED BY THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT, ACTING UNDER SPECIFIC AUTHORISATION FROM THE UNITED KINGDOM GOVERNMENT.
MRS CHAN SAID THE SIGNING OF THESE AGREEMENTS WAS FULLY CONSISTENT WITH THE RELEVANT PROVISIONS OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION.
THEY WERE ENTERED INTO WITH THE FULL SUPPORT OF THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT, AND WERE CAPABLE OF REMAINING IN FORCE BEYOND 1997, SHE NOTED.
UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE JOINT DECLARATION, THE HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION WILL ALSO BE ABLE AFTER 1997 TO CONCLUDE, UNDER SPECIFIC AUTHORISATIONS FROM THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT, ITS OWN AIR SERVICES AGREEMENTS SEPARATE FROM THOSE OF CHINA.
MRS CHAN SAID DIRECT AIR LINKS BETWEEN SRI LANKA AND HONG KONG HAD BEEN IN EXISTENCE FOR OVER A DECADE, SINCE AIR LANKA BEGAN OPERATING FROM COLOMBO TO HONG KONG IN 1981.
"IN RECENT YEARS, WE HAVE WELCOMED A GROWING NUMBER OF SRI LANKA VISITORS TO HONG KONG WHICH HAVE INCREASED FROM SOME 5,500 IN 1990 TO OVER 7,000 IN THE FIRST 11 MONTHS OF 1992.
"BILATERAL TRADE BETWEEN HONG KONG/SRI LANKA IS ALSO INCREASING. FOR EXAMPLE, THE TOTAL VALUE OF EXPORTS FROM HONG KONG TO SRI LANKA WAS ABOUT HK$1.3 BILLION IN 1989. A FIGURE WHICH HAS INCREASED TO HK$ 2.2 BILLION IN 1992," SHE SAID.
REPRESENTING THE GOVERNMENT OF THE DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF SRI LANKA AT THE CEREMONY, AIR CHIEF MARSHAL MR A W FERNANDO, SECRETARY TO THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR DEFENSE IN SRILANKA SAID THE SRI LANKA GOVERNMENT EARNESTLY HOPED THAT THE FORMAL SIGNING OF THE AIR SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH THE HONG KONG AUTHORITIES WOULD FURTHER STRENGTHEN THE AVIATION RELATIONS BETWEEN THE TWO PLACES.
"AT PRESENT AIR LANKA, THE DESIGNATED CARRIER OF SRI LANKA OPERATES TWICE WEEKLY SCHEDULED SERVICES FROM COLOMBO TO HONG KONG AND VICE VERSA," MR FERNANDO SAID.
/THE HONG ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
5
THE HONG KONG/SRI LANKA AIR SERVICES AGREEMENT PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE CARRIERS OF THE TWO SIDES TO EXPAND THEIR AIR SERVICES.
THE OTHER EIGHT AGREEMENTS WERE SIGNED WITH THE NETHERLANDS, SWITZERLAND, CANADA, BRUNEI, FRANCE, NEW ZEALAND, MALAYSIA AND BRAZIL.
OF THESE EIGHT COUNTRIES, BRUNEI AND BRAZIL ARE HONG KONG’S NEW AVIATION PARTNERS WITH WHOM HONG KONG DID NOT PREVIOUSLY HAVE A FORMAL AVIATION RELATIONSHIP.
- - - - 0 --------------
MORE NON-REFUGEES TO RETURN TO VIETNAM
*****
A GROUP OF ABOUT 60 VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS SCREENED OUT AS NONREFUGEES WILL RETURN TO VIETNAM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) ON THE NINTH FLIGHT UNDER THE ORDERLY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN ANNOUNCED TODAY.
A TOTAL OF 396 NON-REFUGEES HAVE SO FAR BEEN RETURNED TO VIETNAM UNDER THE PROGRAMME.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
THE FOLLOWING ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE TO FACILITATE MEDIA COVERAGE:
A FIXED POSITION WILL BE SET UP ON THE AIRPORT TARMAC WHERE JOURNALISTS CAN WITNESS THE RETURNEES BOARDING THE PLANE WHICH WILL TAKE THEM BACK TO VIETNAM. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WISHING TO MAKE USE OF THIS FACILITY SHOULD ASSEMBLE AT THE AIRPORT PRESS ROOM IN THE ARRIVAL HALL NO LATER THAN 8.15 AM. TELEPHOTO LENSES WILL BE NECESSARY.
EDITORS ARE REMINDED THAT THEIR REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS MUST BE ABLE TO PRODUCE PROOF THAT THEY ARE BONA FIDE JOURNALISTS BEFORE THEY ARE ALLOWED TO USE THE FACILITY.
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/6 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
6
FUNDS TO SUPPORT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS ******
THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT TODAY (WEDNESDAY) ANNOUNCED THE LAUNCHING OF A $200 MILLION APPLIED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (R&D) SCHEME AIMED AT ENCOURAGING WORTHWHILE LOCAL APPLIED R&D PROJECTS.
SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE, THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF INDUSTRY, MR T H BARMA, EXPLAINED THAT THE OBJECTIVE OF THE SCHEME WAS TO INCREASE THE VOLUME OF APPLIED R&D ACTIVITY IN HONG KONG BY PROVIDING FUNDING SUPPORT AS A CATALYST.
"IT IS HOPED THAT THIS IN TURN WILL ENHANCE THE TECHNOLOGICAL CAPABILITY AND THE COMPETITIVENESS OF OUR LOCAL INDUSTRIES," HE SAID.
MR BARMA ADDED THAT THE SCHEME WAS AN IMPORTANT INITIATIVE OF THE INDUSTRY AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, GOVERNMENT’S PRINCIPAL ADVISORY BODY ON INDUSTRIAL AND TECHNOLOGY MATTERS.
"THE COUNCIL WILL BE OVERSEEING THE PROGRESS OF THE SCHEME IN FUTURE," HE SAID.
MR BARMA ALSO ANNOUNCED THE SETTING UP OF THE HONG KONG APPLIED R&D FUND COMPANY LIMITED TO ADMINISTER THE SCHEME.
MR CHENG HON-KWAN, DIRECTOR OF H K CHENG & PARTNERS LTD CONSULTING ENGINEERS, HAS BEEN APPOINTED CHAIRMAN OF THE COMPANY'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS WHILE DR JAMES KUNG, CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF MANAGER OF CHEKIANG FIRST BANK LTD, HAS BEEN APPOINTED DEPUTY CHAIRMAN.
OTHER DIRECTORS OF THE COMPANY ARE:
MR T H BARMA, DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF INDUSTRY;
DR JAMES FOK, BRANCH DIRECTOR (DESIGN AND
AUTOMATION), HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL;
DR RAYMOND HO, DIRECTOR OF MAUNSELL CONSULTANTS ASIA LTD;
MR ANDREW K Y LEUNG, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SUN
HING KNITTING FACTORY LTD;
MR ANDREW LIAO, QUEEN’S COUNSEL;
DR YORK LIAO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF VARITRONIX LTD;
MR ALEXANDER MAK, PRINCIPAL OF ERNST & YOUNG;
MR MARTIN Y TANG, MANAGING DIRECTOR (HK) AND
REGIONAL MANAGER (S E ASIA ) OF SPENCER
STUART EXECUTIVE SEARCH CONSULTANTS;
MR SIMON WONG, SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT OF
TRANSPAC CAPITAL LTD; AND
MR WILFRED YEUNG, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF ACE MOLD CO LTD.
ALSO SPEAKING AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE, MR CHENG SAID ALL COMPANIES INCORPORATED UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE OR STATUTORY BODIES SET UP UNDER THE LAWS OF HONG KONG WHICH UNDERTOOK R&D LOCALLY .’ERE ELIGIBLE FOR THE SCHEME.
"TN ASSESSING PROJECT PROPOSALS, THE HONG KONG APPLIED R&D FUND OMPANY LIMITED WILL CONSIDER THEIR VIABILITY, TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY MD COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL.
/"APPROVFT FUFDS ...
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
7
"APPROVED FUNDS MAY BE UP TO HALF OF THE PROJECT COST AND WILL BE DISBURSED TO THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS BY INSTALMENTS AT AGREED INTERVALS," HE SAID.
DR KUNG SAID SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS WOULD HAVE TO SUBMIT REGULAR PROGRESS REPORTS AND AUDITED ACCOUNTS TO THE COMPANY.
"THEY ARE NORMALLY EXPECTED TO COMPLETE A PROJECT WITHIN THREE YEARS," HE SAID.
APPLICATION FORMS FOR THE SCHEME CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE HONG KONG APPLIED R&D FUND COMPANY LIMITED AT ROOM 1145, 14TH FLOOR, OCEAN CENTRE, 5 CANTON ROAD, KOWLOON.
COMPLETED FORMS CAN BE RETURNED BY POST OR BY HAND TO THE COMPANY. THERE WILL BE NO APPLICATION FEES. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE BY TELEPHONING 737 2206.
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TWO BUILDINGS ON CHEUNG CHAU DECLARED DANGEROUS ******
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY TODAY (WEDNESDAY) DECLARED THE BUILDING AT 150 SAN HING BACK STREET ON CHEUNG CHAU TO BE DANGEROUS AND 149 OF THE SAME STREET LIABLE TO BECOME DANGEROUS.
THE BUILDINGS ARE TWO-STOREY STRUCTURES WITH TIMBER FLOOR AND ■OOF ON LOADBEARING BRICK AND MASONRY WALLS.
THE BUILDING AT 150 HAS A CONCRETE BALCONY AT ITS FRONT AND SIDE PARTS ON THE FIRST FLOOR, WHILE THE BUILDING AT 149 HAS A SMALL IWO-STOREY KITCHEN ANNEX AT THE SIDE. THE KITCHEN ANNEX HAS CONCRETE FLOOR AND ROOF ON LOADBEARING WALLS.
THE STRUCTURE AT 150 IS GENERALLY IN A VERY DILAPIDATED CONDITION. THE CONCRETE COLUMNS SUPPORTING THE BALCONY AND PART OF THE BALCONY FRONTING SAN HING BACK STREET HAVE SEVERE CRACKS.
THE ROLLED STEEL JOISTS PROVIDING ADDITIONAL SUPPORT TO THE FRONT BALCONY OVER SAN HING BACK STREET ARE ALSO IN A VERY DILAPIDATED CONDITION.
TN ADDITION, CRACKS ARE FOUND IN THE LOADBEARING WALL AND THE ROOF TILES, WITH THE FRONT PORTION OF THE ROOF APPEARING TO BE SAGGING.
AS THERE IS A DISTINCT DANGER OF THE BALCONY COLLAPSING, AND IN ORDER TO SAFEGUARD THE SAFETY OF THE OCCUPANTS AND THE PUBLIC USING THE NARROW PUBLIC ACCESS, THE BUILDING SHOULD BE CLOSED AND DEMOLISHED.
/THE BUILDING .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
8
THE BUILDING AT 149 IS GENERALLY IN AN ADVANCED STATE OF DILAPIDATION WITH MANY OF THE STRUCTURAL TIMBER JOISTS BEING EITHER DECAYED OR DEFECTIVE CAUSING THE REAR PORTION OF THE FIRST FLOOR AND ROOF TO SAG. FRACTURES ARE ALSO EVIDENT IN THE LOADBEARING WALLS AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS.
IN VIEW OF THE GENERAL CONDITION AND AGE OF THE BUILDING AND THE NATURE AND EXTENT OF THE WORKS REQUIRED TO MAKE THE BUILDING SAFE, IT IS UNECONOMICAL TO REPAIR THE BUILDING.
HENCE THE BUILDING SHOULD ALSO BE CLOSED AND DEMOLISHED BECAUSE OF BEING LIABLE TO BECOME DANGEROUS.
NOTICES OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR CLOSURE ORDERS IN RESPECT OF THE TWO BUILDINGS FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON APRIL 21 WERE POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY.
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS t t ♦ ♦ ♦
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,005
REVERSAL OF LAF +145
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,150
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -530
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,620
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 113.8 t+0.1* 24.2.93
/HONG KONG .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.62 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 102.63 3.32
1 MONTH 2.70 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 5.50 101.40 3.43
3 MONTHS 2.82 PCT 21 MONTHS 2411 4.375 101.74 3.60
6 MONTHS 2.95 PCT 12 MONTHS 3.25 PCT 24 MONTHS 2502 4.625 101.75 3.86
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 20,599 MN
CLOSED 24 FEBRUARY 1993
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN - SUPPLEMENT
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUPPLEMENT
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL:
PROPOSALS ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW NOT YET FINALISED .......... 1
NURSING SHORTAGE MOTION DEBATE ............................. 2
LEGCO TOLD OF PROGRESS ON ELECTIONS BILL ................... 5
PROPOSED CONTROL OVER FILMS PUBLISHED AS VIDEOTAPES AND LASERDISCS ................................................ 5
LOCAL LAW TO MAKE EFFECTIVE TWO SHIPPING CONVENTIONS ......... 6
WAGE PROTECTION FUND NOT COVERS VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATION ...... 7
MOTION TO SET UP ACCOUNT FOR EMSD WORKSHOP SERVICES PASSED 8
INFLATION NO QUICK AND EASY CURE ........................... 9
EUTHANASIA NOT TO BE LEGALISED ............................. 10
PROPOSALS TO IMPROVE POLICE COMPLAINTS MONITORING SYSTEM .. 11
POLICY FOR DISPOSAL OF OLD CARS WORKS WELL ................. 11
MEASURES IN PLACE TO AVERT POLICE SUICIDES ................. 12
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY TO TAKE OVER NON-EMERGENCY AMBULANCE SERVICE .................................................... 13
PROGRESS OF RECOMMENDED HIGHWAYS AND RAIL PROJECTS ......... 15
/SAFETY OF .......
SAFETY OF OVERHANGING SIGNBOARDS STRESSED .................... 16
REDRESS FOR OFFENSIVE NEWS PICTURES .......................... 16
IMPROVED VIETNAM ECONOMY WILL SPUR MIGRANTS BACK ............. 17
EFFORTS MADE TO ENSURE SAFETY AT SEA ......................... 18
PLAN TO REPLACE TEN-DOLLAR NOTE EXPLAINED .................... 19
NEIGHBOURHOOD INFORMATION AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS ............. 20
FUNDING FOR PUBLIC HOUSING SITE WORKS ........................ 20
RADIOFREQUENCY OUTPUT POWER OF MOBILE TELEPHONES WITHIN PRESCRIBED LIMITS .......................................... 21
CAUSES OF HILL FIRES EXPLAINED ............................... 22
GOVT TO RECEIVE FINAL REPORT ON CHINESE MEDICINE THIS YEAR 22
SCHOOL TEXTBOOKS SUBJECT TO STANDARD REVIEW PROCEDURE ........ 23
PUBLIC RECORDS OFFICE RELOCATES TO TUEN MUN .................. 23
SPECIAL BRANCH DOES EFFECTIVE WORK ........................... 24
LEGISLATORS DEBATE THREE MOTIONS ............................. 25
WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 24, 1993
1
PROPOSALS ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW NOT YET FINALISED
*****
IT WOULD BE INAPPROPRIATE FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO TAKE A VIEW ON THE PROPOSALS MADE BY THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) IN THE TAXI POLICY REVIEW BEFORE THEY COMPLETE THEIR CONSULTATION AND SUBMIT THEIR RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE ADMINISTRATION.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, IN THE MOTION DEBATE ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR LEUNG SAID ALL VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE FOUR-MONTH CONSULTATION EXERCISE, WHICH IS DUE TO END THIS SUNDAY, WILL BE CAREFULLY CONSIDERED BY THE TAC IN THE PROCESS OF FINALISING ITS RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SUBMISSION TO THE ADMINISTRATION IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS.
THESE INCLUDE OBSERVATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS MADE BY MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN TODAY’S DEBATE AND RESERVATIONS ABOUT THE PROBLEMS OF IMPLEMENTING SOME OF THE PROPOSALS IN THE CONSULTATIVE DOCUMENT.
UP TILL YESTERDAY, A TOTAL OF 113 WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS AND 295 TELEPHONE CALLS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED BY THE TAC.
IN ADDITION, TAC MEMBERS HAVE ATTENDED 30 MEETINGS, SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS, RADIO AND TELEVISION PROGRAMMES INCLUDING 17 MEETINGS WITH THE DISTRICT BOARDS AND FOUR SPECIAL WORKSHOPS WITH THE TAXI TRADE TO EXPLAIN AND CLARIFY POINTS RAISED ABOUT THE PROPOSALS.
MR LEUNG SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO ENSURE THAT THE TAXI POLICY IS EFFECTIVE IN PROMOTING QUALITY SERVICE AND MAINTAINING REASONABLE FARES FOR THE OPERATORS, THE DRIVERS AND THE PASSENGERS.
”IN THE PAST 10 YEARS, WE HAVE REVIEWED OUR TAXI POLICY REGULARLY IN ORDER TO MEET THE CHANGING REQUIREMENTS OF THE TRAVELLING PUBLIC.
’’THE LAST MAJOR REVIEW WAS CONDUCTED IN I 9BR WHICH RESULTED IN A NUMBER OF IMPROVEMENT MEASURES ON TAXI SERVICES,’’ MR LEUNG SAID.
HOWEVER, NOTWITHSTANDING SUCH IMPROVEMENTS, TAXI SERVICE IN HK HAS CONTINUED TO ATTRACT PUBLIC COMMENTS AND CRITICISMS. IN PARTICULAR, PASSENGERS HAVE RAISED INCREASING COMPLAINTS WITH THE TAC’S TRANSPORT COMPLAINTS UNITS OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS.
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
2 NURSING SHORTAGE MOTION DEBATE *****
THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THE SPEECH BY THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS SHELLEY LAU, WHEN WINDING UP THE MOTION DEBATE ON NURSING SHORTAGE AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TONIGHT (WEDNESDAY):
MR PRESIDENT,
FIRST, LET ME JOIN HONOURABLE MEMBERS IN PAYING TRIBUTE TO OUR DEDICATED NURSES. WE OWE MUCH TO THEIR CONSISTENT HARD WORK AND QUIET CONTRIBUTION - THOUGH SOMEWHAT MORE VOCAL TODAY IN MAINTAINING A HIGH STANDARD OF MEDICAL CARE FOR THE PATIENTS IN HONG KONG. AS DR HUANG POINTED OUT IT IS A WIDELY RECOGNIZED FACT THAT TN A PATIENT’S HEALING PROCESS, NURSES PLAY A KEY ROLE IN PROVIDING CARE, COMFORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT.
BUT MR PRESIDENT, WHILE NURSING IS A REWARDING AND HIGHLY REGARDED PROFESSION, IT IS ALSO AN INCREASINGLY DEMANDING PROFESSION.
. AS HONOURABLE MEMBERS HAVE SUGGESTED A NEW DIRECTION IS CLEARLY NEEDED TO MEET CHANGING NEEDS OF BOTH NURSES AND THE COMMUNITY. WITH RAPID ADVANCEMENTS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY AND RISING EXPECTATIONS FROM AN AGEING COMMUNITY, I REASSURE HON JAMES TO THAT WE MUST ENSURE WE HAVE NOT JUST AN ADEQUATE NUMBER OF NURSES, BUT THE TYPE AND QUALITY OF NURSING TO COPE WITH THE NEEDS OF HOSPITALS, CLINICS AS WELL AS WELFARE AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES. WE MUST AT THE SAME TIME ENSURE ADEQUATE TRAINING AND SUFFICIENTLY ATTRACTIVE TERMS AND CONDITIONS TO KEEP OUR NURSES WORKING HAPPILY.
MEANWHILE, LET ME FIRST RESPOND TO THE DOUBTS EXPRESSED BY MEMBERS ABOUT THE ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF NURSES IN HONG KONG. IN TERMS OF STATISTICS ALONE, HONG KONG COMPARES FAVOURABLY WITH OTHER COUNTRIES IN THE REGION. WE HAVE A RATIO OF 4.85 NURSES PER 1,000 POPULATION, COMPARED WITH 3.18 IN SINGAPORE, 2.08 IN KOREA, AND 1.9 IN TAIWAN. OF COURSE, THESE FIGURES ALONE CANNOT ALLAY MEMBERS’ CONCERNS ABOUT NURSING SHORTAGE IN REALITY. BUT THEN WHAT ARE THE ACTUAL NUMBERS PRACTISING THEIR PROFESSION THESE DAYS? WHILST NURSING SHORTAGE IS APPARENT ARE WE REALLY SHORT OF THE NUMBERS OF NURSES THAT MEMBERS HAVE REPEATEDLY SUGGESTED? I HAVE LOOKED TO THE NURSING BOARD FOR AN ANSWER, BUT THE NURSES REGISTER THERE CANNOT OFFER ONE. IT DOES NOT FULLY REFLECT THE MOVEMENT OF NURSES IN AND OUT OF HONG KONG, OR IN AND OUT OF THE PROFESSION. THE SYSTEM OF REGISTRATION IS BADLY IN • NEED OF CHANGE. UNTIL THIS IS DONE, THERE WILL ALWAYS BE A PERCEIVED SHORTAGE OF NURSES WHATEVER THE REALITY IS. I HOPE THAT THE NEWLY APPOINTED MEMBERS OF THE NURSING BOARD WILL SOON PUT FORWARD PROPOSALS ON HOW BEST TO ADDRESS THIS PROBLEM OF UPDATING THE REGISTER. ONLY THEN CAN WE ACCURATELY ASSESS THE NUMBER OF NURSES THAT WE HAVE VERSUS THE NUMBER THAT WE NEED.
/I WOULD .......
WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 24, 1993
3
I WOULD NOW RESPOND TO THE SUGGESTIONS MADE BY SOME MEMBERS THAT NURSING SHORTAGE ALONE HAS UNDULY DELAYED THE COMMISSIONING OF HOSPITALS. THIS IS QUITE MISLEADING. MEMBERS HAVE HEARD IN THIS COUNCIL BEFORE THAT SINCE HOSPITAL PROJECTS OF THE SIZE OF THE TUEN MUN HOSPITAL AND THE SHATIN INFIRMARY CATER TO LONG-TERM DEMANDS, THEY ARE DESIGNED TO PROCEED IN PHASES. THE PHASED COMMISSION ENABLES THE PROPER TESTING OF EQUIPMENT AND BETTER ORGANISATION AND CO-ORDINATION OF SERVICES INCLUDING THE AVAILABILITY OF PROFESSIONAL PERSONNEL. THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY ASSURES ME THAT THE COMMISSIONING OF BOTH THESE PROJECTS IS PROGRESSING ON SCHEDULE. I HAVE EVERY CONFIDENCE THAT THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY WILL HAVE SUFFICIENT QUALIFIED STAFF AT ALL LEVELS TO MEET THE PLANNED COMMISSIONING PROGRAMMES AND TO RENDER SATISFACTORY SERVICE TO THE PATIENTS.
LET ME FURTHER ASSURE MEMBERS IN PARTICULAR DR LEONG CHE-HUNG THAT WE DO RECOGNISE THE IMPORTANCE OF BOOSTING RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION OF NURSES. WE HAVE MODIFIED ENTRY REQUIREMENTS, IMPROVED THE SALARY SCALE AND CAREER PROSPECTS, INCREASED THE NUMBER OF NURSING DEGREE PLACES AND INTRODUCED ADDITIONAL CONVERSION PROGRAMMES FOR SERVING STAFF. MORE RECENTLY, WE INTRODUCED A RESIDENTIAL ALLOWANCE TO STUDENT AND PUPIL NURSES, INTENSIFIED OUR RECRUITMENT EFFORTS AND ACCEPTED 335 MATURE STUDENT NURSES FOR TRAINING. THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY ALSO ENGAGES 140 PART-TIME NURSES TO PROVIDE AN AVERAGE SERVICE EQUIVALENT TO 74 FULL-TIME NURSES. IN ADDITION, IT IS IMPROVING THE NURSING CAREER PATH, SO THAT NURSES CAN ASPIRE TO TAKE UP SENIOR POSITIONS IN NURSING MANAGEMENT, AND IN CLINICAL AND EDUCATION STREAMS.
AS A RESULT OF ALL THESE CONCERTED EFFORTS, THE STRENGTH OF NURSING STAFF IN THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY HAS SHOWN A NET INCREASE OF 470 SINCE THE MANAGEMENT TRANSFER IN DECEMBER
1991. THE WASTAGE RATE HAS BEEN ARRESTED AT 10%. THIS IS NO MEAN FEAT, BUT WE DO NOT INTEND TO REST ON OUR LAURELS.
MR PRESIDENT, DEVELOPMENTS TN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY AND PRACTICE PRESENT CHALLENGES TO NURSING AND DO REQUIRE A RETHINK ABOUT NURSING ROLES, EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS AND CAREER PATHS. I DO AGREE WITH HONOURABLE MEMBERS ON THIS. THEREFORE, APART FROM IMPROVEMENTS IN SALARY STRUCTURE AND CAREER PROSPECTS, WE HAVE INTRODUCED MEASURES TO RATIONALISE DUTIES AND TO CONSERVE PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE. 167 WARD STEWARDS NOW ASSIST IN NON-PROFESSIONAL DUTIES IN HOSPITALS. IN ADDITION, SUITABLE SUPPORTING STAFF ASSIST AND WILL GRADUALLY REPLACE NURSES WORKING IN NURSES QUARTERS AND THE CENTRAL STERILIZED SUPPLIES UNITS. WE WILL CONTINUE WITH THESE EFFORTS AND INTRODUCE OTHER MORE EFFECTIVE MEASURES AS NECESSARY TO RELIEVE NURSES OF NON-NURSING DUTIES.
NURSING EDUCATION. NOW THIS IS A PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT ELEMENT IN HELPING NURSES MEET NEW DEMANDS IN THEIR PROFESSION. WITH THE GOVERNMENT’S SUPPORT, THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC LAUNCHED THE FIRST NURSING DEGREE COURSE IN 1990/91 WITH AN ANNUAL INTAKE OF 42. SINCE THEN, THREE OTHER NURSING DEGREE COURSES HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED AT THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC AND THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY, PROVIDING AN ADDITIONAL 94 DEGREE PLACES. BY THE YEAR 1994/95, THE TOTAL INTAKE WILL INCREASE TO 150. THIS REPRESENTS A 250% INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF DEGREE PLACES FOR NURSES IN FIVE YEARS. I DON’T THINK WE ARE STANDING STILL.
/TN ADDITION.........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
IN ADDITION, BOTH THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY AND THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SPONSOR NURSES TO ATTEND IN-SERVICE TRAINING COURSES AND CONVERSION DEGREE PROGRAMMES. OTHER TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDE OVERSEAS CLINICAL SPECIALITY COURSES, IN-SERVICE SPECIALITY TRAINING, A RANGE OF OVERSEAS AND LOCAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMMES, AND SPECIAL PART-TIME COURSES. IT’S ENOUGH TO MAKE ME PERSUADE MY DAUGHTER TO JOIN THE NURSING PROFESSION. WE WILL ALSO INCREASE THE TRAINING CAPACITY FOR STUDENT NURSES AND PUPIL NURSES TO 5,376 THIS YEAR. ALL THESE EFFORTS WILL STRENGTHEN NURSING RESEARCH, EDUCATION AND MANAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES, AS WELL AS RAISE THE PROFESSIONAL STATUS OF NURSES.
OF COURSE, I AGREE THE ABOVE MEASURES HAVE SO FAR ONLY MANAGED TO CONTAIN THE PROBLEM. I ALSO AGREE WITH DR HUANG AND HON TAM YIU-CHUNG AND THAT OWING TO COMPETITION, NEW INITIATIVES ARE REQUIRED TO ATTRACT OUR DECREASING NUMBER OF YOUNG PEOPLE TO JOIN THE NURSING PROFESSION AS A LONG-TERM CAREER. IT IS TIME WE REVIEWED THE WHOLE NURSING ISSUE, TO LAY DOWN A LONG-TERM POLICY AND TO MAP OUT THE WAY FORWARD INCLUDING SUCH ISSUES IMPORTANT AS THEY ARE OF MANNING RATIOS. IN THIS CONNECTION, I CAN CONFIRM THAT THE LEGCO HEALTH PANEL WAS INFORMED AT ITS MEETING ON 8 FEBRUARY 1993 THAT AN INTER-DEPARTMENTAL GROUP INVOLVING THE RELEVANT POLICY BRANCHES, PROFESSIONALS AND ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS’ REPRESENTATIVES WILL BE SET UP TO FORMULATE AN OVERALL STRATEGY AND A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF ACTION FOR THE NURSING PROFESSION. BUT BEFORE WE DO THIS, I MUST STRESS MR PRESIDENT THAT THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY, THE BIGGEST EMPLOYER OF NURSES IN HONG KONG, HAS ALREADY FORMED A WORKING GROUP ON NURSING SERVICES. IT IS LOOKING AT THE OVERALL PROVISION AND SHORTFALL OF NURSES, AND MEASURES TO ALLEVIATE THE SHORTFALL. IT IS ALSO LOOKING AT NURSING EDUCATION AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES, THE CAREER STRUCTURE OF NURSES, RE-DEFINITION OF NURSING DUTIES AND DEVELOPMENT OF PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS, PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES. IT WILL COME UP WITH PROPOSALS LATER THIS YEAR. THESE WILL SERVE AS A FIRM FOUNDATION FOR FURTHER ACTION. AND I PROPOSE MR PRESIDENT, THAT WE MUST AWAIT THE OUTCOME OF THIS WORKING GROUP BEFORE FORMING THE NEW INTER-DEPARTMENTAL GROUP, OTHERWISE, THERE MAY BE DUPLICATION OF EFFORT, AND TOO MUCH IS AT STAKE FOR US TO GET THINGS WRONG AT THIS STAGE.
WHILST I UNDERSTAND THE HONOURABLE MICHAEL HO’S CONCERN FOR URGENT ACTION, LET US JUST GIVE IT A FEW MORE MONTHS AND THEN LET US GET IT RIGHT. MR PRESIDENT, I AM MOST GRATEFUL TO ALL MEMBERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTIVE COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS MADE TODAY INCLUDING HONOURABLE MARTIN BARROW AND DR K C LAM’S RATHER IMAGINATIVE SUGGESTIONS ON MORE FLEXIBILITY IN FINDING SOLUTIONS. WE WILL CERTAINLY BEAR THIS IN MIND. BUT WHAT I CAN SAY NOW IS THAT YOU KNOW, A, THERE ARE A NUMBER OF VALUABLE POINTS THAT I WILL REFER TO THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY FOR CONSIDERATION AND ACTION AND TO SAY THAT WE ARE COMMITTED TO IMPROVING THE NURSING SITUATION. COMING BACK TO THE INTER-DEPARTMENTAL GROUP, WE INTEND TO COME UP WITH THE REPORT BY THE END OF THE YEAR AND I HOPE HONOURABLE MEMBERS WILL GIVE US THE MUCH-NEEDED SUPPORT WHEN PROPOSALS FOR ADDITIONAL FUNDING COME BEFORE YOU. THEY WILL GIVE OUR FLORENCE NIGHTINGALES AND THE MALE COUNTERPARTS THE BOOST THAT THEY VERY MUCH DESERVE.
THANK YOU, MR PRESIDENT.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
5
LEGCO TOLD OF PROGRESS ON ELECTIONS BILL
*****
THE GOVERNMENT WILL NEED TO GAZETTE THE BILL ON THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS IF A DECISION ON TALKS BETWEEN THE BRITISH AND CHINESE SIDES CANNOT BE REACHED IMMINENTLY.
THIS WAS STATED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, IN HIS REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON SZETO WAH IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
MR SZE SAID DIPLOMATIC CONTACTS BETWEEN THE BRITISH AND CHINESE GOVERNMENTS HAD CONTINUED OVER RECENT WEEKS.
”WE HAVE CONTINUED TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE ARE READY TO TALK AT ANY TIME AND WITHOUT ANY PRE-CONDITIONS IN AN EFFORT TO REACH AN UNDERSTANDING ON THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS.
"WE HOPE THAT FORMAL TALKS BETWEEN THE TWO SIDES CAN SOON BEGIN," HE SAID.
IN ORDER TO HELP THIS PROCESS THE GOVERNOR ON THE ADVICE OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS DEFERRED SO FAR THE GAZETTING OF THE BILL ON THE ELECTIONS ARRANGEMENTS, OTHER THAN THE BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION BILL.
"WE DO RECOGNISE THAT THE CURRENT UNCERTAIN SITUATION CANNOT BE ALLOWED TO CONTINUE FOR MUCH LONGER AND THAT WE WILL NEED TO GAZETTE THE BILL IF A DECISION ON TALKS CANNOT BE REACHED IMMINENTLY," MR SZE SAID.
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PROPOSED CONTROL OVER FILMS PUBLISHED AS VIDEOTAPES AND LASERDISCS *****
A BILL THAT SEEKS TO PLUG A LOOPHOLE IN THE EXISTING LAW ON THE PUBLICATION OF FILMS AS VIDEOTAPES AND LASERDISCS WAS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE FILM CENSORSHIP (AMENDMENT) JILL 1993, THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, SAID LL FILMS THAT HAD BEEN CLASSIFIED UNDER THE FILM CENSORSHIP ORDINANCE HEN PUBLISHED AS VIDEOTAPES OR LASERDISCS WOULD BE SUBJECT TO THE \ME CLASSIFICATION GIVEN BY THE FILM CENSORSHIP AUTHORITY AND SUBJECT ) THE CONTROL OF THE SAME ORDINANCE.
IN ADDITION, THOSE THAT WERE CLASSIFIED AS CATEGORY III WOULD )T BE ALLOWED TO BE SOLD OR HIRED TO PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF 18. EACH OF THIS PROVISION WILL ATTRACT A MAXIMUM FINE OF $200,000 AND RISONMENT FOR 12 MONTHS.
/THF ' W L 31.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
THE CONTROL OF ARTICLES MADE PURELY FOR PUBLICATION AS VIDEOTAPES AND LASERDISCS AS OPPOSED TO EXHIBITION IN A CINEMA WILL REMAIN UNDER THE CONTROL OF OBSCENE AND INDECENT ARTICLES ORDINANCE, MR SO NOTED.
UNDER THE BILL, APPROVAL IS DEEMED TO BE GIVEN TO A FILM TO BE PUBLISHED AS A VIDEOTAPE OR LASERDISC WHEN A CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL OR A CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION IS GRANTED FOR ITS EXHIBITION IN CINEMAS.
MR SO SAID: "THERE IS NO NEED TO SEEK SEPARATE APPROVAL FOR PUBLICATION. HOWEVER, WHEN IT IS PUBLISHED AS A VIDEOTAPE OR LASERDISC, IT IS REQUIRED TO DISPLAY APPLICABLE CLASSIFICATION SYMBOLS AND WARNING NOTICES.
"THIS REQUIREMENT IS ALSO EXTENDED TO ANY RELATED ADVERTISING MATERIALS."
ANOTHER PURPOSE OF THE BILL IS TO INCREASE SOME OF THE PENALTY LEVELS SO AS TO ACHIEVE THE DESIRED DETERRENT EFFECT.
IT IS PROPOSED THAT THE MAXIMUM CASH PENALTY FOR EXHIBITING A FILM WITHOUT A CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL OR A CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION WOULD BE INCREASED FROM $50,000 TO $200,000.
THE PENALTY FOR EXHIBITING A CATEGORY TIT FILM TO JUVENILES WOULD BE RAISED FROM $10,000 TO $50,000 ON THE FIRST OR SECOND CONVICTION AND THAT FOR THE THIRD AND SUBSEQUENT CONVICTIONS REMAINS UNCHANGED AT $100,000.
TO ALLOW THE INDUSTRY ADEQUATE TIME TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMENDED PROVISIONS, THE BILL WOULD BE BROUGHT INTO EFFECT SIX MONTHS AFTER ITS ENACTMENT.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
- 0 -
LOCAL LAW TO MAKE EFFECTIVE TWO SHIPPING CONVENTIONS
*****
A BILL TO MAKE TWO INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING CONVENTIONS EFFECTIVE IN HONG KONG BEYOND 1997 WAS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE TWO CONVENTIONS ARE THE ATHENS CONVENTION RELATING TO THE ARRIAGE OF PASSENGERS AND THEIR LUGGAGE BY SEA, 1974 AND ITS PROTOCOL 976 (KNOWN AS THE ATHENS CONVENTION) AND THE CONVENTION ON LIMITATION F LIABILITY FOR MARITIME CLAIMS, 1976.
BOTH OF THESE CONVENTIONS ALREADY APPLY TO HONG KONG. THEY ARE 1PLEMENTED LOCALLY BY UNITED KINGDOM ENACTMENTS APPLIED TO HONG KONG.
/MOVIfK THZ
WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 24, 1993
7
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF MERCHANT SHIPPING (LIMITATION OF SHIPOWNERS LIABILITY) BILL, THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MRS ANSON CHAN, SAID IT WAS NECESSARY TO ENACT LOCAL LEGISLATION TO REPLACE THESE ENACTMENTS SO THAT THEIR LEGAL EFFECT WOULD CONTINUE AFTER 1997.
MRS CHAN EXPLAINED THAT THIS SYSTEMATIC LOCALISATION OF UK MERCHANT SHIPPING LEGISLATION HAD BEEN UNDERWAY FOR SOME YEARS AND HAD INVOLVED THE ENACTMENT OF PRIMARY AND SUBSIDIARY LEGISLATION ADDRESSING SUCH ISSUES AS MARINE POLLUTION, SHIPPING SAFETY AND THE SETTING UP OF THE HONG KONG SHIPPING REGISTER.
"THIS BILL REPLICATES ALL THE SUBSTANTIVE PROVISIONS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM ENACTMENTS, WITH MODIFICATIONS ONLY WHERE NECESSARY TO CONFORM TO THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF HONG KONG," SHE SAID.
IN ESSENCE, THE BILL PROVIDES THAT THE ATHENS CONVENTION AND THE CONVENTION ON LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR MARITIME CLAIMS SHALL BOTH HAVE THE FORCE OF LAW IN HONG KONG, SHE ADDED.
THE SECRETARY SAID THE CONTINUED APPLICATION TO HONG KONG OF THE CONVENTIONS WOULD ENSURE THAT DISPUTES INVOLVING SEA PASSENGERS AND THEIR LUGGAGE WERE DEALT WITH IN HONG KONG IN ACCORDANCE WITH INTERNATIONAL PRACTICE.
BESIDES, IT WOULD ALSO ENSURE THAT SHIPOWNERS ARE ENTITLED TO PLACE LIMITS ON THEIR LIABILITY IN HONG KONG.
"SINCE MERCHANT SHIPPING ACTIVITIES MAKE A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO OUR ECONOMY, IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE CONTINUE TO APPLY INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED RULES TO SECURE THE EFFECTIVE OPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF OUR SHIPPING INDUSTRY," SHE SAID.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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WAGE PROTECTION FUND NOT COVERS VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATION
******
THE GOVERNMENT HAS, AFTER CAREFUL CONSIDERATION, DECIDED NOT TO FURTHER EXTEND THE COVERAGE OF THE PROTECTION OF WAGES ON INSOLVENCY FUND TO INCLUDE VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATION, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR JOHN CHAN, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THIS IS BECAUSE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF ABUSE OF THE FUND AND THE SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL IMPACT ON IT, MR CHAN ADDED.
SPEAKING AT THE THIRD READING OF THE PROTECTION OF WAGES ON INSOLVENCY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993, MR CHAN SAID, HOWEVER, EMPLOYEES INVOLVED IN VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP CASES COULD OBTAIN PAYMENT FROM THE I । ND PROVIDED THEY PROCEED WITH THE PRESENTATION OF WINDING UP PETITIONS AGAINST THEIR EMPLOYERS.
/ALSO IN
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
8
ALSO, IN THOSE VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATIONS WHERE THERE ARE LESS THAN 20 EMPLOYEES AND WHERE THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR CONSIDERS IT UNREASONABLE AND UNECONOMICAL TO PRESENT A PETITION FOR WINDING UP, PAYMENTS FROM THE FUND MAY BE MADE TO EMPLOYEES UNDER SECTION 18 OF THE PRINCIPAL ORDINANCE.
”IN 1992, SECTION 18 WAS INVOKED IN 56 CASES INVOLVING PAYMENT OF MORE THAN $600,000 TO 101 EMPLOYEES,” MR CHAN NOTED.
HE ALSO SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS AWARE THAT PASSAGE OF THE BILL WOULD RESULT IN A WIDER GAP BETWEEN THE PREFERENTIAL LIMITS OF PAYMENT UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE AND THE BANKRUPTCY ORDINANCE AND THE MAXIMUM PAYMENT LEVELS UNDER THE FUND.
"THIS DISCREPANCY WOULD RESULT IN THE FUND SUFFERING GREATER FINANCIAL LOSS AS IT WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO HAVE ALL ITS PAYMENTS TREATED AS PREFERENTIAL DEBTS UPON REALISATION OF THE EMPLOYER’S ASSETS," HE SAID, ADDING THAT THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER’S OFFICE ARE LOOKING INTO THE MATTER.
"IF ANY PROPOSAL IS IDENTIFIED TO NARROW OR REMOVE THE GAP, THOSE EMPLOYEES WHO ARE AFFECTED BY VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATION MAY RECEIVE EQUAL PAYMENT FROM THE LIQUIDATOR AS AN ELIGIBLE APPLICANT RECEIVING PAYMENT FROM THE FUND,” MR CHAN SAID.
THE BILL, WHICH WAS PASSED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY, SEEKS TO RAISE THE MAXIMUM LIMIT ON THE AMOUNT OF EX-GRATIA PAYMENT TO EMPLOYEES SHOULD THEIR EMPLOYERS BECOME INSOLVENT.
THE MAXIMUM EX-GRATIA PAYMENT IN RESPECT OF ARREARS OF WAGES HAS BEEN RAISED FROM $8,000 TO $18,000 PER APPLICANT AND THAT IN RESPECT OF WAGES IN LIEU OF NOTICE FROM SEVEN DAVS’ WAGES UP TO $2,000 TO ONE MONTH’S WAGES UP TO $6,000.
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MOTION TO SET UP ACCOUNT FOR EMSD WORKSHOP SERVICES PASSED
*****
COUNCIL TODAY
WILL REPLACE
A RESOLUTION THAT PROPOSES TO SET UP A SPECIAL SUSPENSE ACCOUNT TO COVER ALL WORKSHOP SERVICES TN THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT (EMSD) WAS PASSED IN THE LEGISLATIVE (WEDNESDAY).
THE ACCOUNT, WITH EFFECT FROM APRIL 1 THIS YEAR, AN EXISTING SUSPENSE ACCOUNT COVERING ONLY VEHICLE SERVICES.
IN ADDITION TO THE VEH I (’LES SECTION, THE EMSD OPERATES OTHER WORKSHOPS UNDER ITS MECHANICAL PLANT SECTION, ELECTRICAL, AIR-CONDITIONING AND REFRIGERATION SECTION, AND THE TRAFFIC AIDS AND SIGNALS SECTION.
/ALL WORKSHOP .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
9
ALL WORKSHOP EXPENSES INCURRED BY EMSD WILL BE DEBITED TO THE NEW ACCOUNT WHILE THE CHARGES PAID BY USER DEPARTMENTS AND OTHER PUBLIC BODIES WILL BE CREDITED TO IT.
MOVING THE RESOLUTION ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT WORKSHOP SERVICES SUSPENSE ACCOUNT, THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY, MR K Y YEUNG, SAID:
"THE AIM IN ESTABLISHING THE PROPOSED SPECIAL SUSPENSE ACCOUNT IS FURTHER TO PROMOTE GREATER COST-CONSCIOUSNESS AMONGST USERS OF WORKSHOP SERVICES, AND TO EXTEND THE APPLICATION OF COMMERCIAL DISCIPLINES TO THE REMAINING WORKSHOPS O| THE EMSD."
MR YEUNG WILL CHAIR A COMMITTEE TO MONITOR 1*111- X(’COUNT.
0
INFLATION NO QUICK AND EASY CURE * t 1 ♦ ♦
THE TEMPORARY RELAPSE OF (’ONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) LAST MONTH TO 10.1 PER CENT IS PRIMARILY DUE To Till- I\I I ! I N( | o| rill, LUNAR NEW YEAR AND THE UNDERLYING SITUATION HAS NOT WORSENED, THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MRS ANSON CHAN, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON DAVID LI KWOK-PO, THE SECRETARY SAID (’ONSUMER PRICE INFLATION II AD MODERATED CONSIDERABLY FROM THE PEAK OF 13.9 PER CENT RECORDED IN APRIL 1991.
SHE SAID THERE WAS NO QUICK AND EASY CURE TO INFLATION.
THE GOVERNMENT MUST BE CAREFUL NOT TO INTRODUCE MEASURES THAT MIGHT SEEM SUPERFICIALLY ATTRACTIVE IN THE SHORT TERM BUT WHICH COULD INFLICT LASTING DAMAGE ON HONG KONG’S ECONOMY.
ALTHOUGH THE MEASURES AVAILABLE TO THE GOVERNMENT FOR CURBING INFLATION WERE LIMITED, THE GOVERNMENT REMAINED COMMITTED TO KEEPING PUBLIC EXPENDITURE UNDER CONTROL, ENSURING ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF LABOUR AND LAND, PROMOTING EFFICIENCY AND COMPETITION, ENHANCING HUMAN RESOURCES IHROUGH EDUCATION AND TRAINING, AND DISCOURAGING PROPERTY SPECULATION, SHE ADDED.
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/10.........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
10
EUTHANASIA NOT TO BE LEGALISED
******
THE GOVERNMENT WILL NOT LEGALISE EUTHANASIA WHICH EXISTS IN BOTH ACTIVE AND PASSIVE FORMS FOR THE TIME BEING, THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS SHELLEY LAU, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SHE SAID UNDER THE EXISTING POLICY, ACTIVE EUTHANASIA WAS ILLEGAL WHILE PASSIVE EUTHANASIA WAS ALSO GENERALLY CONSIDERED BY THE MEDICAL PROFESSION AS UNETHICAL.
"FURTHER GOVERNMENT CONSIDERATION OF THE MATTER WILL DEPEND TO A LARGE EXTENT ON COMMUNITY VIEWS ON THE ISSUE AND EXPECTATIONS.
"RIGHT NOW, WE DO NOT SEE EUTHANASIA AS A SUBJECT OF GENERAL PUBLIC CONCERN THOUGH WE DO SYMPATHISE WITH DOCTORS AND PATIENTS WHO SOMETIMES FEEL FORCED TO CONFRONT IT AS AN OPTION," MRS LAU STATED IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON CONRAD LAM KUI-SHING.
MRS LAU TOLD COUNCILLORS THAT EUTHANASIA, OFTEN CALLED MERCY KILLING, WAS A VERY COMPLEX AND CONTROVERSIAL SUBJECT, WITH PROFOUND ETHICAL, LEGAL, POLITICAL, RELIGIOUS AND MEDICAL IMPLICATIONS.
ACTIVE EUTHANASIA IS THE DELIBERATE ACT OF ENDING THE LIFE OF A PATIENT, FOR EXAMPLE BY PRESCRIBING OR ADMINISTERING A DRUG WHICH ACCELERATES THE PATIENT’S DEATH.
"IT IS USUALLY AT THE REQUEST OF A TERMI NALLY-1LL PATIENT OR HIS CLOSE RELATIVES," MRS LAU SAID, BUT CAUTIONED THAT THIS WOULD CONSTITUTE THE CRIME OF MURDER OR MANSLAUGHTER UNDER EXISTING LAW.
PASSIVE EUTHANASIA MEANS RESPECTING THE WILL OF THE PATIENT OR HIS CLOSE RELATIVES TO ALLOW THE NATURAL FORCE OF DEATH TO FOLLOW ITS COURSE IN THE TERMINAL PHASE OF SICKNESS BY NOT INTERVENING MEDICALLY TO PROLONG LIFE.
ALTHOUGH DOCTORS IN SOME COUNTRIES MAY ADVOCATE EUTHANASIA AND SOME OVERSEAS COURT DECISIONS AND LAWS HAVE PERMITTED IT, MRS LAU CONSIDERED IT WAS STILL A CONTROVERSIAL SUBJECT INTERNATIONALLY.
THE ACTING SECRETARY ALSO NOTED THAT THE WORLD MEDICAL ASSOCIATION HAD DECLARED EUTHANASIA UNETHICAL.
IN HONG KONG, THE JOINT ETHICS COMMITTEE OF THE HONG KONG MEDICAL ASSOCIATION AND THE BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (HONG KONG BRANCH) IS ALSO OF THE OPINION THAT EUTHANASIA IS UNETHICAL.
"AND FOLLOWING A RECENT DEBATE ON THE SUBJECT, THE JOINT COMMITTEE RECOMMENDED NO CHANGE IN THE LAW,” MRS LAU ADDED.
/Il ........
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
- 11 -
PROPOSALS TO IMPROVE POLICE COMPLAINTS MONITORING SYSTEM
******
THE GOVERNMENT IS CONSIDERING A NUMBER OF RECOMMENDATIONS PUT FORWARD BY THE POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE TO IMPROVE THE EXISTING SYSTEM FOR MONITORING COMPLAINTS AND TO ENHANCE PUBLIC CONFIDENCE IN THE SYSTEM.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, WHEN HE REPLIED TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ZACHARY WONG WAI-YIN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"THE ADVICE OF THE COMMITTEE IS THAT INVESTIGATIONS CARRIED OUT BY THE COMPLAINTS AGAINST THE POLICE OFFICE HAVE BEEN BOTH FAIR AND THOROUGH," MR ASPREY SAID.
HE SAID THE PRESENT SYSTEM OF INVESTIGATION BY THE OFFICE WHICH COMPRISED POLICE OFFICERS UNDER A SEPARATE CHAIN OF COMMAND FROM THE REST OF THE POLICE FORCE SHOULD BE RETAINED.
MR ASPREY EXPLAINED THAT INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST THE POLICE REQUIRED A KNOWLEDGE OF POLICE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES AS WELL AS PROFESSIONAL JUDGEMENT.
"POLICE OFFICERS, WORKING FOR THE COMPLAINTS AGAINST THE POLICE OFFICE, HAVE THE NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE TO UNDERTAKE THESE SORT OF INVESTIGATIONS," HE SAID.
AS IT WOULD BE DIFFICULT TO RECRUIT AN ADEQUATE NUMBER OF PROFESSIONAL, NON-POLICE INVESTIGATORS OF THE RIGHT CALIBRE, WHO WOULD UNDERSTAND THE NATURE OF POLICE WORK SUFFICIENTLY, MR ASPREY SAID IT WOULD NOT BE VIABLE OR EFFECTIVE TO ESTABLISH AN INDEPENDENT OFFICE OUTSIDE THE POLICE FORCE TO INVESTIGATE SUCH COMPLAINTS.
THE WORK OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST THE POLICE OFFICE IS MONITORED BY THE INDEPENDENT POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE WHICH IS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR.
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POLICY FOR DISPOSAL OF OLD CARS WORKS WELL
THE PRESENT ARRANGEMENTS FOR DISPOSAL OF OLD VEHICLES WORK WELL, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) .
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHIM PUI-CHUNG AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR LEUNG SAID MOST OWNERS EITHER TOOK THEIR OLD VEHICLES TO ONE OF THE TWO SURRENDER CENTRES OPERATED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT OR SOLD THEM TO PRIVATE SCRAPYARDS.
/"ONLY A .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
12
"ONLY A SMALL PROPORTION OF UNSERVICEABLE VEHICLES ARE ABANDONED," HE SAID.
MR LEUNG SAID THREE DEPARTMENTS WERE INVOLVED IN THE DISPOSAL OF ABANDONED VEHICLES.
AS WELL AS OFFERING A FREE DISPOSAL SERVICE AT ITS TWO CAR SURRENDER CENTRES, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ALSO MONITORS THE ACTIVITIES OF A CAR-CRUSHING YARD OPERATED BY A GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR, WHERE ABANDONED VEHICLES ARE DELIVERED FOR SCRAPPING.
FOR VEHICLES ABANDONED ON GOVERNMENT LAND, THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT REQUIRES OWNERS TO MOVE THEM BY A CERTAIN DATE, BEYOND WHICH THE VEHICLES ARE TOWED AWAY. VEHICLES ABANDONED ON PUBLIC ROADS ARE HANDLED BY THE POLICE IN A SIMILAR WAY.
MR LEUNG SAID THE SUGGESTION THAT OWNERS BE REQUIRED TO PROVE THAT THEIR VEHICLES HAD BEEN PROPERLY DISPOSED OF IF THEY DID NOT RENEW THEIR VEHICLE LICENCE HAD BEEN CONSIDERED BEFORE.
"HOWEVER, NON-RENEWAL OF A VEHICLE LICENCE DOES NOT NECESSARILY MEAN THAT THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN DISPOSED OF. FOR EXAMPLE, THE OWNER COULD BE ABSENT FROM HONG KONG FOR A LONG TIME OR THE VEHICLE MAY BE UNDER REPAIR.
"TO ESTABLISH THE REASONS FOR NON-RENEWAL OF A LICENCE IN EACH CASE WOULD REQUIRE TIME-CONSUMING INVESTIGATION WHICH IS NOT JUSTIFIED BY THE SCALE OF THE PROBLEM," HE ADDED.
MEASURES IN PLACE TO ♦ * *
AVERT POLICE SUICIDES * * »
A NUMBER OF MEASURES ARE AVAILABLE TO HELP PREVENT POLICE OFFICERS FROM RESORTING TO SUICIDE, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON HUANG CHEN-YA, MR ASPREY SAID COURSES ON STRESS AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT WERE OFFERED TO POLICE OFFICERS AS PART OF THEIR TRAINING.
OFFICERS ARE ALSO GIVEN ADVICE ON HOW TO IDENTIFY SUICIDAL TENDENCIES AMONG THEMSELVES, THEIR COLLEAGUES AND THEIR SUBORDINATES, HE SAID.
POLICE OFFICERS, OR THEIR FAMILIES, WHO REQUIRE COUNSELLING CAN OBTAIN IT FROM THE WELFARE OFFICERS AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGTSTS IN THE FORCE.
"EARLY INTERVENTION IS EMPHASISED, BEFORE THE PROBLEMS DEVELOP TO SUCH EXTENT THAT THEY COULD LEAD TO SUICIDE.
/’’THE AVAILABILITY.......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
13
"THE AVAILABILITY OF THESE COUNSELLING SERVICES HAS BEEN WIDELY PUBLICISED WITHIN THE FORCE," HE SAID.
IN THE PAST THREE YEARS, A TOTAL OF 15 POLICE OFFICERS DIED AFTER COMMITTING SUICIDE.
DURING THE SAME PERIOD, THERE WERE THREE SUICIDES IN THE FIRE SERVICES, ONE IN THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, ONE IN THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT AND NONE IN THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT.
HOWEVER, MR ASPREY SAID THE STRENGTH 01 THE POLICE FORCE, AT AROUND 27,000 WAS MUCH LARGER THAN THAT OF THE OTHER DISCIPLINED SERVICES.
"FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES, FAMILY PROBLEMS, INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS AND PHYSICAL AND MENTAL ILLNESS ARE SOME OF THE KNOWN CAUSES OF THESE SUICIDES; MANY RESULT FROM A COMBINATION OF FACTORS," HE SAID.
MR ASPREY SAID OFFICERS WHOSE CIRCUMSTANCES SUGGESTED THAT THEY MIGHT BE UNDER CONSIDERABLE STRESS AND, THEREFORE, PRONE TO SUICIDE, WERE GIVEN SPECIAL ATTENTION.
"APPROPRIATE ASSISTANCE IS SOUGHT FROM THEIR FAMILIES, COLLEAGUES OR FORMATION COMMANDERS," HE SAID.
THIS ASSISTANCE MIGHT INCLUDE RESTRICTING THE OFFICERS’ ACCESS TO FIREARMS AND TRANSFERRING THEM TO LESS STRESSFUL POSTS.
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HOSPITAL AUTHORITY TO TAKE OVER NON-EMERGENCY AMBULANCE SERVICE ♦ ♦ ♦ * *
THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT A PHASED PROGRAMME HAD BEEN WORKED OUT FOR THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT TO GRADUALLY WITHDRAW FROM THE PROVISION OF NONEMERGENCY AMBULANCE SERVICES.
THIS FOLLOWS DISCUSSIONS WITHIN THE GOVERNMENT AND BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY LAST YEAR.
UNDER THE NEW ARRANGEMENT, THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY WILL TAKE OVER NON-EMERGENCY SERVICES IN STAGES, STARTING WITH HONG KONG ISLAND ON OCTOBER 1 THIS YEAR, THEN KOWLOON ON JANUARY 1 NEXT YEAR AND FINALLY THE NEW TERRITORIES ON APRIL 1, 1995.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON TIK ('HI-YUEN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR ASPREY SAID THE MOVE WOULD ENABLE THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT TO MAKE BETTER USE OF ITS RESOURCES AND TO FOCUS ON ITS PRIMARY ROLE AS THE PROVIDER OF EMERGENCY SERVICES.
/HE ADDED .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
14 -
HE ADDED THAT THE DEPARTMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN ITS EXISTING STANDARD OF EMERGENCY SERVICES WITH A FLEET WHICH WOULD REDUCE FROM 208 AMBULANCES AND 15 AMBULANCE AID MOTORCYCLES TO 158 AND 15 RESPECTIVELY.
"THE DEPARTMENT WILL SEEK TO ACHIEVE, AS FAR AS POSSIBLE, ITS TARGET OF RESPONDING TO EMERGENCY CALLS WITHIN 10 MINUTES," MR ASPREY SAID.
THIS TARGET RESPONSE TIME WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1987, FOLLOWING THE RECOMMENDATION OF AN INDEPENDENT OVERSEAS CONSULTANT, WHO CONDUCTED AN EXTENSIVE REVIEW OF THE AMBULANCE SERVICES PROVIDED IN HONG KONG.
"THERE ARE NO INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS ON RESPONSE TIMES, BUT WE ARE SATISFIED THAT OUR TARGET TIME IS ADEQUATE; WE HAVE NO PLANS TO REDUCE IT," MR ASPREY SAID.
HOWEVER, TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF ITS EMERGENCY SERVICES, THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT WOULD BE INTRODUCING PARAMEDIC SERVICES TO UPGRADE THE STANDARD OF THE ON-THE-SPOT CARE PROVIDED FOR PATIENTS AT EMERGENCIES, HE ADDED.
THE COMMUNICATION AND CONTROL CENTRE OF THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT WOULD MAINTAIN ITS COMMAND AND CONTROL OF AMBULANCES FOR EMERGENCY CALLS, THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY WOULD MAKE SEPARATE ARRANGEMENTS TO RECEIVE, AND TO RESPOND TO, NON-EMERGENCY CALLS, MR ASPREY SAID.
"THE DISTINCTION BETWEEN EMERGENCY AND NON-EMERGENCY CALLS IS QUITE CLEAR AND THERE SHOULD BE VERY LITTLE OVERLAP BETWEEN THE TWO CONTROL CENTRES.
"LIAISON AND CO-ORD I NAT I ON BETWEEN THE IWO SHOULD ENSURE THAT ANY PROBLEMS WHICH DO ARISE ARE QUICKLY RESOLVED," HE SAID.
IN THE PAST THREE YEARS, THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAS RESPONDED TO AN AVERAGE OF ABOUT 420,000 EMERGENCY AND NON-EMERGENCY CALLS EACH YEAR AND THERE WAS ONLY ONE PROVEN CASE OF ABUSE IN 1991.
"WE HAVE, THEREFORE, NO REASON TO BELIEVE THAT ABUSE OF AMBULANCE SERVICES IS A SIGNIFICANT PROBLEM," HE SAID.
MR ASPREY POINTED OUT THAT THE MAIN REASON FOR THIS SATISFACTORY SITUATION WAS THAT THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, IN CONSULTATION WITH THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, HAD DRAWN UP A SET OF 'ADMINISTRATIVE GUIDELINES ON THE SCOPE OF NON-EMERGENCY TRANSFERS’ IN NOVEMBER 1990.
UNDER THESE GUIDELINES, THE USE OF AMBULANCES FOR NON-EMERGENCY TRANSFERS REQUIRES PRE-BOOKING AND MUST BE AUTHORISED BY A DOCTOR, NURSE OR SOCIAL WORKER.
"THESE ARRANGEMENTS HAVE MADE THE FRIVOLOUS OR IMPROPER USE OF AMBULANCE SERVICES VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE," HE SAID.
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/15 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2'1, 1993
15
PROGRESS OF RECOMMENDED HIGHWAYS AND RAIL PROJECTS * t * * * t
THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING (WHC) TOGETHER WITH THE SECTION OF ROUTE 7 CONNECTING THE TUNNEL TO CENTRAL AND THE SECTION OF ROUTE 3 FROM THE WHC TO TSING Yl, RECOMMENDED BY SECOND COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORT STUDY (CTS-2), ARE NOW PLANNED FOR IMPLEMENTATION BY 1997.
THIS WAS STATED RY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON LAU CHIN-SHEK TN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR LEUNG SAID THE NEED FOR THE THIRD RECOMMENDED NEW HIGHWAY, A NEW ROUTE THROUGH KAI TAK, WAS BEING REASSESSED AS PART OF PLANNING FOR SOUTH EAST KOWLOON, AS A RESULT OF THE DECISION TO RELOCATE THE AIRPORT.
HE EXPLAINED THAT TRANSPORT PLANNING WAS A CONTINUOUS PROCESS AND WAS SUBJECT TO CHANGE FROM TIME TO TIME.
THE CTS-2 PUBLISHED IN 1989 WAS BASED ON THE ASSUMPTION THAT THE AIRPORT AT KAI TAK WOULD BE RETAINED AND RECOMMENDED PROJECTS FOR IMPLEMENTATION UP TO 2001.
"THE STUDY WAS UPDATED SUBSEQUENTLY TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF THE PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY AND LATEST LAND-USE PLANS, AND ITS PLANNING HORIZON WAS EXTENDED TO 2011," HE SAID.
MR LEUNG SAID CTS-2 ALSO RECOMMENDED THREE RAIL PROJECTS. THESE WERE THE THIRD CROSS HARBOUR RAIL LINK, AN MTR EXTENSION TO TSEUNG KWAN 0, AND A NORTH WEST NEW TERR I TOR IES/URBAN LINK.
"THE AIRPORT RAILWAY WILL PROVIDE THE THIRD CROSS HARBOUR LINK IN ADDITION TO SERVING Till NEW AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK AND TUNG CHUNG NEW TOWN. AS A RESULT OF THE DECISION TO CONSTRUCT THE AIRPORT RAILWAY, ALL OTHER RAIL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS, INCLUDING THOSE RECOMMENDED BY CTS-2, HAVE BEEN RE-EXAMINED IN THE RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STUDY," HE SAID.
"THE PUBLIC WILL BE CONSULTED ON THE RESULTS OF THIS STUDY SHORTLY," HE ADDED.
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
16
SAFETY OF OVERHANGING SIGNBOARDS STRESSED
THE GOVERNMENT’S PRIMARY CONCERN OVER SIGNBOARDS IS SAFETY AND ITS POLICY IS TO ENSURE THAT THOSE WHICH MAY POSE A THREAT TO SAFETY ARE REMOVED EITHER BY THE OWNERS THEMSELVES OR, IF NECESSARY, BY THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE (BOO).
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MAN SAI-CHEONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID WHEN DANGEROUS OR POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS SIGNS WERE IDENTIFIED, A NOTICE WOULD BE SERVED ON THE OWNER REQUIRING THE SIGN TO BE REMOVED OR RENDERED SAFE.
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, THE BOO MAY REMOVE DANGEROUS SIGNS WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE TO THE OWNER.
AS PART OF THEIR DAILY ACTIVITIES IN THE- FIELD OF BUILDING SAFETY, BOO STAFF BOTH SEEK OUT DANGEROUS SIGNS AND RESPOND TO NOTIFICATION THROUGH PUBLIC REPORTS.
’’THESE MEASURES ARE ADEQUATE IN REMOVING THE POTENTIAL HAZARD POSED BY SIGNBOARDS.
"SINCE APRIL 1987, WHEN THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE TOOK ON THE TASKS OF DEALING WITH DANGEROUS SIGNS, OVER 5,700 NOTICES HAVE BEEN SERVED ON OWNERS, THE MAJORITY OF WHICH HAVE BEEN COMPLIED WITH VOLUNTARILY," HE SAID.
REGARDING THE POSSIBLE NUISANCE EFFECT POSED BY NEON LIGHT SIGNBOARDS, MR EASON SAID UNDER THE MULTI-STOREY BUILDING (OWNERS INCORPORATION) ORDINANCE, OWNERS CORPORATIONS MIGHT TAKE ACTION TO ENFORCE ANY OBLIGATIONS CONTAINED IN THE DEED OF MUTUAL COVENANT FOR THE CONTROL OF THEIR BUILDING, INCLUDING THE REMOVAL OF UNSIGHTLY OR UNDESIRABLE SIGNS.
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REDRESS FOR OFFENSIVE NEWS PICTURES
READERS WHO FIND A PICTURE IN A NEWS REPORT OFFENSIVE OR REPULSIVE CAN BRING THE MATTER TO THE ATTENTION OF THE TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY (TELA), THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE TELA CAN THEN SEEK A CLASSIFICATION FROM THE OBSCENE ARTICLES TRIBUNAL (OAT), HE ADDED.
/IN A
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON LEE WING-TAT, MR SO SAID IT WAS THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY TO ALLOW THE PRESS FREEDOM TO PUBLISH.
’’THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT HAVE, NOR DOES IT INTEND TO ISSUE, GUIDELINES ON THE PUBLICATION OF PICTURES BY THE PRESS,” MR SO STATED.
"THE PRESS IN HONG KONG ARE FULLY AWARE OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE CONTROL OF OBSCENE AND INDECENT ARTICLES ORDINANCE (COTAO) AND, GENERALLY, THEIR RECORD TN THIS REGARD IS GOOD,” HE ADDED.
MR SO SAID THE PUBLICATION OF 'ARTICLES WHICH CONSISTED OF OR CONTAINED MATERIAL THAT WAS OBSCENE OR INDECENT, INCLUDING MATERIAL THAT WAS VIOLENT, DEPRAVED OR REPULSIVE, WAS SUBJECT TO CONTROL UNDER COIAO.
ARTICLE CONSIDERED TO BE INDECENT OR OBSCENE MAY BE SUBMITTED TO THE OAT FOR CLASSIFICATION.
IN DETERMINING WHETHER AN ARTICLE IS OBSCENE OR INDECENT, THE OAT SHALL HAVE REGARD TO STANDARDS OF MORALITY, DECENCY AND PROPRIETY THAT ARE GENERALLY ACCEPTED BY REASONABLE MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY.
"AN OBSCENE ARTICLE IS DISALLOWED FROM PUBLICATION UNDER THE LAW WHEREAS THE OAT MAY IMPOSE CONDITIONS ON THE PUBLICATION OF AN INDECENT ARTICLE,” MR SO SAID.
--------0
IMPROVED VIETNAM ECONOMY WILL SPUR MIGRANTS BACK
*****
THE GOVERNMENT DOES ACCEPT THAT AN IMPROVEMENT IN THE VIETNAMESE ECONOMY WOULD ENCOURAGE VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS TO VOLUNTEER TO RETURN, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MARTIN BARROW, MR ASPREY SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S POSITION ON THE AMERICAN TRADE EMBARGO AGAINST VIETNAM WAS A MATTER OF PUBLIC RECORD AND WAS WELL KNOWN TO THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT.
’’NEVERTHELESS, WHENEVER THE OPPORTUNITY ARISES WE AND HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT REMIND THEM OF IT,” HE ADDED.
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/18 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2 1, 1993
18
EFFORTS MADE TO ENSURE SAFETY AT SEA ♦ ♦ t ♦ ♦ ♦
THE MARINE DEPARTMENT TAKES A NUMBER 01 MEASURES TO ENSURE THAT OVERSEAS REGISTERED OCEAN-GO I NG VESSELS VISITING HONG KONG COMPLY WITH THE SAFETY STANDARDS SET OUT IN V YRI OUS INTERNATIONAL MARITIME CONVENTIONS.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ALBERT CHAN WAI-YIP IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MRS ANSON CHAN, SAID THIS TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE MEASURES INCLUDE:
* ENSURING THAT ALL VESSELS CALLING ON HONG KONG HOLD VALID SAFETY CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY THEIR RESPECTIVE STATE OF REGISTRY (FLAG STATE);
* INSPECTING OCEAN-GOING VESSELS IN THE MANNER PRESCRIBED IN THE VARIOUS INTERNATIONAL MARITIME CONVENTIONS (PORT STATE CONTROL). PARTICULAR ATTENTION IS GIVEN TO PASSENGER VESSELS AND OLDER SHIPS WITH A HISTORY OF PROBLEMS; AND
* CONDUCTING SPECIFIC INSPECTIONS ON VESSELS WHICH HAVE BEEN REPORTED TO MARINE DEPARTMENT \S HAVING SAFETY PROBLEMS.
IF ANY7 VESSEL IS FOUND TO BE SIGNIFICANTLY DEFICIENT, OR NOT TO HAVE VALID CERTIFICATES, ACTION WILL BE TAKEN REQUIRING THE OWNER AND OPERATOR TO RECTIFY THESE DEFICIENCIES BEFORE THE VESSEL IS ALLOWED TO LEAVE HONG KONG, MRS CHAN SAID.
SHE EXPLAINED THAT THE AIM BEHIND THESE MEASURES WAS NOT SIMPLY TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS, BUT TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF SHIPS AND CREWS, TO PROTECT THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT, AND TO INDUCE A GREATER SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY AMONG OWNERS, OPERATORS AND FLAG STATES.
’’INTERNATIONALLY, THERE ARE MOVES FOR PORT STATE CONTROL TO TARGET FLAG STATES WHOSE SHIPS HAVE A HISTORY OF BEING SUB-STANDARD, SO AS TO RID THE SEAS OF SUCH VESSELS,” SHE ADDED.
MRS CHAN SAID MARINE DEPARTMENT INVESTIGATED EVERY MAJOR ACCIDENT OCCURRING WITHIN HONG KONG WATERS.
THE FLAG STATE AND THE INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANISATION WILL BE ADVISED OF THE FINDINGS OF THE INVESTIGATION.
THIS WILL INCLUDE CASES TN WHICH THE ACCIDENT WAS CAUSED BY UNAUTHORISED ALTERATIONS TO VESSELS Will ('ll CONTRAVENE INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS, OR NON-COMPLIANCE WITH THESE STANDARDS.
ALTERATIONS TO OVERSEAS REG I STI II- D SHIPS \RE NOT COVERED IN HONG KONG LAW.
HOWEVER, MRS ('HAN SAID IF THE ALTERATIONS MATERIALLY CONTRAVENE PROVISIONS COVERED BY ANY RELEVANT INTERNATIONAL MARITIME CONVENTION, MARINE DEPARTMENT COULD REQUIRE THE OWNERS AND OPERATORS TO RECTIFY THE DEFICIENCIES.
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/19 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
19
PLAN TO REPLACE TEN-DOLLAR NOTE EXPLAINED *****
THE DECISION TO REPLACE THE TEN-DOLLAR NOTE BY A TEN-DOLLAR COIN WAS MADE ON ECONOMIC GROUNDS AND THE TIMING FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF SUCH COINS HAS YET TO BE DETERMINED, THE SECRETARY FOR MONETARY AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MRS PEGGY LAM, MR CARTLAND SAID THE TEN-DOLLAR COIN WOULD NOT PREDOMINANTLY TAKE OVER THE ROLE OF THE TEN-DOLLAR NOTE UNTIL AFTER A PERIOD OF AT LEAST THREE YEARS.
THIS IS BECAUSE THE LARGE NUMBER OF SUCH NOTES IN CIRCULATION AND THE CONSTRAINTS IN PRODUCTION AND STORAGE OF REPLACEMENT COINS, HE SAID.
"EVEN AFTER THAT, THE TEN-DOLLAR NOTE WILL CONTINUE TO BE LEGAL TENDER.
’’THERE SHOULD THEREFORE BE LITTLE LIKELIHOOD OF ANY PERSISTENT MISCONCEPTION THAT THE TEN-DOLLAR NOTE HAS BEEN DEVALUED,” HE SAID.
THE TEN-DOLLAR NOTE NOW CONSTITUTES OVER BO PER CENT OF THE TOTAL NUMBER OF NOTES IN CIRCULATION.
HE SAID THE DECISION OF REPLACEMENT WAS MAINLY TO THE OBJECTIVE OF PROVIDING AN EFFICIENT MEDIUM OF EXCHANGE IN A COST-EFFECTIVE WAY.
”IT IS SO HEAVILY USED THAT IT HAS A VERY SHORT AVERAGE LIFE OF UNDER TWO YEARS, WHILE COINS LAST FOR A MUCH LONGER TIME,” THE SECRETARY SAID.
HE SAID IT WAS CLEARLY MUCH MORE ECONOMICAL TO REPLACE THE NOTE WITH A COIN.
BESIDES, THERE WILL BE SUBSTANTIAL SAVINGS ON THE COST OF PRODUCTION OF NEW BANK NOTES AND DESTRUCTION OF OLD ONES.
IN ARRIVING AT THE DECISION, THE TWO BANKS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ISSUE OF BANK NOTES HAVE BEEN CONSULTED, MR CARTLAND SAID.
THE SECRETARY OF STATE, WHO HAS THE AUTHORITY TO APPROVE THE MINTING OF NEW COINS, HAS ALSO BEEN CONSULTED.
’’THE PRECISE TIMING FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF THE TEN-DOLLAR COIN HAS YET TO BE DETERMINED, ALONG WITH THAT FOR THE ONGOING REPLACEMENT OF COINS OF EXISTING DESIGNS BY THOSE WITH NEW DESIGNS,” HE SAID.
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/20.........
WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 24, 1993 '
- 20 -
NEIGHBOURHOOD INFORMATION AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS
******
EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO ENSURE THAT THE LATEST INFORMATION ON FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING IN THEIR NEIGHBOURHOOD IS READILY AVAILABLE TO AND EASILY UNDERSTOOD BY RESIDENTS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHEUNG MAN-KWONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID RESIDENTS HAD A NUMBER OF ACCESS TO SUCH INFORMATION.
ALL STATUTORY OUTLINE ZONING PLANS AND NON-STATUTORY DEVELOPMENT AND LAYOUT PLANS, SHOWING LAND USE PLANNING, ARE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION AT THE PLANNING INFORMATION AND TECHNICAL ADMINISTRATION UNIT OF THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT.
GAZETTED OR APPROVED PLANS ARE ON SALE AT GOVERNMENT MAP SALE OUTLETS.
PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE RESIDENTS CAN EITHER APPROACH THEIR ESTATE OFFICE FOR INFORMATION OR ARE INFORMED OF PLANNED PROJECTS THROUGH ON-SITE NOTICES, REGULAR NEWSLETTERS AND AS FAR AS POSSIBLE MUTUAL AID COMMITTEE MEETINGS.
WHILE TENANTS IN NEW PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES ARE PROVIDED WITH GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE ESTATES, INCLUDING THE COMMUNITY FACILITIES, WORK PROGRAMMES AND STATUTORY TOWN PLANS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE OR DISPLAYED FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION AT PUBLIC ENQUIRY COUNTERS AT DISTRICT OFFICES.
"THE DISTRICT BOARDS ARE BRIEFED OR CONSULTED ON TOWN PLANS, PLANNING BRIEFS FOR HOUSING ESTATES, DEPARTMENTAL DEVELOPMENT/WORKS PROGRAMMES AND MAJOR COMMUNITY FACILITIES PROJECTS," HE SAID.
THE AGENDA AND MINUTES OF DISTRICT BOARD MEETINGS WERE DISPLAYED ON THEIR NOTICE BOARDS, HE SAJI), ADDING THAT THE PUBLIC ALSO HAD ACCESS TO THE BOARDS’ DISCUSSION PAPERS AND THEIR MEETINGS WERE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND THE PRESS.
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FUNDING FOR PUBLIC HOUSING SITE WORKS ******
LAND FORMATION WORKS FOR I’UBIIC HOUSING SITES ARE NORMALLY FUNDED BY THE GOVERNMENT FROM THE CAPITAL WORKS RESERAI FUND AND THIS HAS NOT BEEN CHANGED Bl’ THE SETTING UP OF Till HOUSING AUTHORITY IN ITS PRESENT FORM ON APRIL 1, 1988.
THIS WAS STATED BA TUI' SECRETARA Col. PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONA EASON, IN A WRITII'. REI’I , TO A QUESTION DA THE HON GILBERT LEUNG IN THE LEG I SI. A l I VE COUNI II I'oDAA (WEDNESDAY).
/HOWEVER, THE ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
21
HOWEVER, THE GOVERNMENT ACKNOWLEDGED IN LATE 1988 THAT THIS ARRANGEMENT DID NOT COVER SUPPLEMENTARY NEW SITES FOR PUBLIC HOUSING PURPOSES IN THE URBAN AREAS, MR EASON SAID.
"FOLLOWING DISCUSSIONS, THE GOVERNMENT CONFIRMED IN EARLY 1990 THAT IT WOULD REIMBURSE THE HOUSING AUTHORITY THE COSTS OF FORMING THE SUPPLEMENTARY PUBLIC HOUSING SITES IN THE URBAN AREAS FOR WHICH THE AUTHORITY HAD UNDERTAKEN THE WORKS," HE SAID.
MR EASON SAID SINCE THIS AGREEMENT WAS MADE, A TOTAL OF FOUR SITE FORMATION PROJECTS, INCLUDING TWO ONGOING AND TWO YET-TO-START, HAD BEEN APPROVED IN PRINCIPLE BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE ON A REIMBURSEMENT BASIS.
’’THERE ARE NO OTHER PROJECTS WITH SIMILAR ARRANGEMENTS FOR WHICH SUBMISSIONS TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE ARE BEING PREPARED,’’ HE ADDED.
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RADIOFREQUENCY OUTPUT POWER OF MOBILE TELEPHONES WITHIN PRESCRIBED LIMITS *****
THE MOBILE TELEPHONES CURRENTLY AUTHORISED FOR USE IN HONG KONG EMIT RADIOFREQUENCY RADIATION IN THE RANGE OF 800 TO 900 MEGAHERTZ AND HAVE A POWER OUTPUT OF LESS THAN TWO WATTS, THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS SHELLEY LAU, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
ACCORDING TO THE GUIDELINES PROMULGATED BY THE INTERNATIONAL RADIATION PROTECTION ASSOCIATION TN CO-OPERATION WITH THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION, EXPOSURE TO RADIOFREQUENCY RADIATION EMITTED FROM LOW POWER DEVICES COULD BE EXCLUDED FROM CONSIDERATION IN ASSESSING COMPLIANCE WITH THE PRESCRIBED LIMIT PROVIDED THE RADIOFREQUENCY OUTPUT POWER OF THE DEVICE WAS SEVEN WATTS OR LESS.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON LAM KUI-CHUN, MRS LAU SAID: "THE MOBILE TELEPHONES AUTHORISED FOR USE IN HONG KONG ARE WELL WITHIN THIS LIMIT," SHE SAID.
"THEY SHOULD NOT POSE A HEALTH HAZARD IN NORMAL USE. THE USERS SHOULD, HOWEVER, ALWAYS OBSERVE THE USERS’ INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED BY THE MANUFACTURER."
LOW POWER DEVICES INCLUDE CITIZEN’S BAND RADIO, LAND MOBILE AND MARINE TRANSMITTERS AND WALKIE-TALKIES.
THEY GENERATE ONLY VERY LOCALISED FIELDS, MRS LAU SAID.
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/22 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
- 22
CAUSES OF HILL FIRES EXPLAINED
****»»
THE MAIN CAUSE OF HILL FIRES IS CARELESSNESS IN THE HANDLING OF JOSS-STICKS DURING ANCESTOR WORSHIP, IN THE BURNING OF WEEDS OR RUBBISH BY VILLAGERS AND IN BARBECUING OUTSIDE DESIGNATED SITES.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HOWARD YOUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID THE TOTAL AREA OF VEGETATION AFFECTED BY HILL FIRES IN THE 1992/93 FIRE SEASON SO FAR WAS 9,401 HECTARES, OF WHICH 2,285 HECTARES LAY WITHIN COUNTRY PARKS.
"SMOKING IS NOT A MAJOR CAUSE OF HILL FIRES AND THERE ARE NO PLANS TO BAN SMOKING IN COUNTRY PARKS AT PRESENT," HE SAID
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GOVT TO RECEIVE FINAL REPORT ON CHINESE MEDICINE THIS YEAR ******
THE WORKING PARTY ON CHINESE MEDICINE IS EXPECTED TO SUBMIT ITS FINAL REPORT TO THE GOVERNMENT THIS YEAR.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON TAM YIU-CHUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS SHELLEY LAU, SAID THE WORKING PARTY HAD RECEIVED MORE THAN 200 COMMENTS FROM PROFESSIONALS, PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS, AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC SINCE PUBLICATION OF ITS INTERIM REPORT LAST YEAR.
"IT HAS STUDIED THE VIEWS RECEIVED AND IS NOW FINALISING ITS RECOMMENDATIONS," MRS LAU SAID.
"IT IS INTENDED THAT THE FINAL REPORT OF THE WORKING PARTY WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE ADMINISTRATION WITHIN THIS YEAR," SHE ADDED.
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/23 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
- 23 -
SCHOOL TEXTBOOKS SUBJECT TO STANDARD REVIEW PROCEDURE
TEXTBOOK PUBLISHERS WHO WISH To HAVE THEIR TEXTBOOKS RECOMMENDED FOR USE IN SCHOOLS ARE SUBJECT TO A STANDARD REVIEW PROCEDURE CARRIED OUT BY THE TEXTBOOKS COMMITTEE OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND ITS TEXTBOOK REVIEWING PANELS.
THIS IS TO ENSURE THAT THE CONTENTS OF SUCH TEXTBOOKS ARE COMPILED IN LINE WITH THE TEACHING OBJECTIVES SET OUT IN THE CURRICULUM GUIDES AND ARE SUITABLE FOR USE BY PUPILS OF THE SPECIFIED CLASS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER. MR JOHN CHAN, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ERIC LI KA-CHEUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR CHAN NOTED THAT DETAILS OF THE REVIEW PROCEDURE WERE CONTAINED IN HIS REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON JAMES TO KUN-SUN IN THE LEGCO SITTING LAST WEEK.
PUBLIC RECORDS OFFICE RELOCATES TO TURN MUN ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ t
ANY INCONVENIENCE CAUSED TO THOSE USING THE NEW PUBLIC’ RECORDS OFFICE IN TUEN.MUN WILL BE OFFSET BY IMPROVED RECORDS ACCESS AND T HE MODERN FACILITIES PROVIDED.
IBIS WAS STATED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY THF HON SIR DAVID FORD, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MRS ELSIE TU IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
SIR DAVID SAID TO RELOCATE THE PUBLIC RECORDS THAN AS PROPOSED WOULD FRUSTRATE THE OBJECTIVE GOVERNMENT-OWNED ACCOMMODATION IN A (’OST-SENS ITIVE MANNER.
OFFICE OTHER
OF UTILISING
AND EFFICIENT
TO
I HI-. I’OTAL ( OST OF REPROVISIONING ALL RE(’ORI) HOLDINGS MUN IS ESTIMATED TO BE $30 MILLION, INCLUDING NEW PROVISION EQUIPMENT, FITTING OUT AND TRANSPORT.
TUEN
FOR
"TO PURCHASE AND FIT-OUT ACCOMMODATION FOR THE PUBLIC RECORDS OFFICE ADJACENT TO AN MTR STATION WOULD ENTAIL EXPENDITURE OF SOME $200 MILLION," HE ADDED.
HONG KONG’S PUBLIC RECORDS ARK CURRENTLY HELD AT FIVE DIFFERENT LOCATIONS IN ABERDEEN, CENTRAL AND TUEN MUN.
/TO MAXIMISE .......
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
24
TO MAXIMISE THE USE OF LIMITED RESOURCES, THE GOVERNMENT IS INTENDED TO CONSOLIDATE IN PHASES THE FIVE OFFICES INTO A SINGLE OPERATION IN GOVERNMENT-OWNED PREMISES IN TUEN MUN.
SIR DAVID SAID THE NEW FACILITIES WOULD OPTIMISE STAFF DEPLOYMENT AND EFFICIENCY, REDUCE RECURRENT LEASING COSTS AND HELP MANAGEMENT OF THE RECORDS OVERALL.
THE FACILITIES TO BE PROVIDED IN TUEN MUN ARE SITUATED OPPOSITE AN LRT STATION. THERE ARE ALSO A NUMBER OF PUBLIC CAR PARKS NEARBY, HE SAID.
’’THE LOCATION OF THE NEW PREMISES IS NOT EXPECTED TO AFFECT THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE CONSULTING THE PUBLIC RECORDS IN PERSON WHICH, DURING 1992, AVERAGED FIVE A DAY,” HE ADDED.
MOST ENQUIRIES FROM SCHOLARS IN HONG KONG AND OVERSEAS ARE RECEIVED BY MAIL.
-----0------
SPECIAL BRANCH DOES EFFECTIVE WORK *****
THERE IS STILL A NEED TO MAINTAIN THE SPECIAL BRANCH OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR AIISTAIR ASPREY, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY). K
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON PHILIP WONG HONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR ASPREY SAID THE UNIT HAD OUT ALL OF ITS DUTIES EFFECTIVELY DURING THE LAST 12 MONTHS.
YU-
CARRIED
THE SPECIAL BRANCH UNDERTAKES FUNCTIONS NORMAL TO A BRANCH, INCLUDING VIP PROTECT I ON, COUNTER-TERROR ISM AND DU I IES•
SPECIAL SECURITY
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/25 ........
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1993
LEGISLATORS DEBATE THREE MOTIONS
*****
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS TODAY (WEDNESDAY) PASSED THREE MOTIONS - ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW, SHORTAGE OF NURSES AND TUNNEL TOLLS - MOVED BY THE HON MRS MIRIAM LAU, THE HON MICHAEL HO AND REV THE HON FUNG CHI-WOOD RESPECTIVELY.
A TOTAL OF 16 MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE DEBATE ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW WHICH LASTED ONE-AND-A-HALF HOURS. THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SPOKE ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT.
FIFTEEN MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE TWO-HOUR DEBATE ON SHORTAGE OF NURSES. THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS SHELLEY LAU, REPLIED FOR THE GOVERNMENT.
ALSO PASSED WAS THE MOTION UNDER THE INTERPRETATION AND GENERAL CLAUSES ORDINANCE. EIGHT MEMBERS SPOKE ON THE MOTION TO EFFECT TOLL FALL FOR THREE GOVERNMENT TUNNELS.
TWO BILLS WERE PASSED BY THE COUNCIL.
PROTECTION OF WAGES ON INSOLVENCY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 WAS PASSED WITHOUT AMENDMENT WHILE HOUSING (AMENDMENT) BILL 1992 WAS PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS.
TWO OTHER BILLS WERE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS. DEBATES ON THEM WERE ADJOURNED.
THEY WERE MERCHANT SHIPPING (LIMITATION OF SHIPOWNER LIABILITY) BILL AND FILM CENSORSHIP (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993.
THE MOTION MOVED BY THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY, MR K Y YEUNG, UNDER THE PUBLIC FINANCE ORDINANCE WAS ALSO PASSED.
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
ELECTIONS BILL WILL NOT BE GAZETTED TOMORROW ................. 1
FINAL REPORT ON LAN KWAI FONG PUBLISHED ...................... 1
POLICE COMMISSIONER RECEIVES BOKHARY REPORT .................. 2
SUPPLY OF RESIDENTIAL UNITS EXPECTED IO GROW ................. 2
ALL EDUCATION COMMISSION REPORT V RECOMMENDATIONS APPROVED .. 4
APPROPRIATION BILL 1993 ...................................... 9
TOLLS FOR THREE GOVT TUNNELS DROP ............................ 10
SMOOTH RETURN OF VIETNAMESE WELCOMED ......................... 10
REGISTRATION SCHEME FOR TEXTILE PRODUCTS TO BE INTRODUCED ... 11
COMPULSORY INSPECTION OF GOODS VEHICLES ...................... 12
CONTRACTORS URGED TO ENSURE CAISSON WORKERS' SAFETY .......... 12
SATURDAY DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS ........................... 13
200 CALLS A DAY AT AUTOMATIC ENQUIRY SERVICE ................. 14
GURKHA DRIVERS CELEBRATE ROYAL SEAL .......................... 15
SOCIAL STATISTICS REPORT ON SALE ............................. 16
CYC SPECTACULAR ON SATURDAY .................................. 16
BOE MEMBERS VISIT PUI KIU MIDDLE SCHOOL ...................... 17
DTC REGISTRATION REVOKED ..................................... 18
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 18
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
1
ELECTIONS BILL WILL NOT BE GAZETTED TOMORROW
♦ ♦ » ♦ »
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THIS (THURSDAY) EVENING THAT THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HELD A SPECIAL MEETING EARLIER TODAY.
THE MEETING CONSIDERED THE TIMING OF THE PRESENTATION TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF A BILL DEALING WITH THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994-95 ELECTIONS. THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL APPROVED THE BILL EARLIER IN THE MONTH.
THE GOVERNOR, ON THE ADVICE OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, HAS DECIDED NOT TO GAZETTE THE BILL TOMORROW.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED: ’’THE GOVERNOR AND THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS MADE IT CLEAR YESTERDAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT POSTPONEMENT BEYOND THE END OF FEBRUARY COULD ONLY BE CONSIDERED IF THERE WERE GOOD REASONS FOR DOING SO. THESE WOULD HAVE TO BE REASONS WHICH WOULD BE UNDERSTOOD BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND THE COMMUNITY. THE GOVERNMENT WILL THEREFORE MAKE A STATEMENT EXPLAINING THE POSITION ON THIS ISSUE WITHIN THE NEXT FEW DAYS.”
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FINAL REPORT ON LAN KWAI FONG PUBLISHED *****
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) PUBLISHED THE FINAL REPORT PREPARED BY MR JUSTICE BOKHARY OF HIS INQUIRY INTO THE CIRCUMSTANCES WHICH LED TO THE DEATHS OF 21 PEOPLE IN LAN KWAI FONG IN THE EARLY HOURS OF JANUARY 1 THIS YEAR.
THE REPORT CONTAINS 10 MAJOR RECOMMENDATIONS INCLUDING PROCEDURES AND PRACTICAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR EVENTS THAT ARE EXPECTED TO ATTRACT LARGE CROWDS AS WELL AS THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE POLICE AND OTHER EMERGENCY SERVICES.
THE REPORT ALSO EMPHASISES THE NEED TO EDUCATE THE PUBLIC ON CROWD SAFETY.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE ADMINISTRATION WOULD STUDY THE REPORT AND ITS RECOMMENDATIONS CAREFULLY TO ENSURE THAT EVERYTHING POSSIBLE WOULD BE DONE TO PREVENT THE REPETITION OF ANY TRAGEDY SUCH AS THE LAN KWAI FONG INCIDENT.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS VERY GRATEFUL TO MR JUSTICE BOKHARY FOR THE TIME AND EFFORT HE HAD PUT INTO THE INQUIRY.
”HE HAS WORKED VERY EFFECTIVELY TO COMPLETE THIS DIFFICULT TASK SO QUICKLY,” HE SAID.
/THE SPOKESMAN .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
2
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO ACKNOWLEDGED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS FOR THEIR CO-OPERATION IN HELPING THE INVESTIGATION OF THE TRAGEDY AND THE FORMULATION OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS IN THE REPORT.
COPIES OF THE REPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AT PUBLIC ENQUIRY COUNTERS OF DISTRICT OFFICES FROM TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
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POLICE COMMISSIONER RECEIVES BOKHARY REPORT
*****
THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, MR LI KWAN-HA, TODAY (THURSDAY) CONFIRMED THAT HE HAD RECEIVED THE FINAL REPORT BY MR JUSTICE BOKHARY ON THE LAN KWAI FONG DISASTER.
MR LI NOTED THAT FOLLOWING THE PUBLICATION OF THE INTERIM REPORT, A HIGH-LEVEL TEAM HAD BEEN APPOINTED TO CARRY OUT A WIDE-RANGING STUDY OF POLICE CROWD CONTROL OPERATIONS AND PROCEDURES.
HIS STUDY TEAM WAS ALREADY WELL ADVANCED WITH ITS STUDY IN HONG KONG. IN ADDITION, A SENIOR POLICE OFFICER (MR BRIAN WIGLEY, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS) WOULD SHORTLY BE VISITING THE UNITED KINGDOM TO EXAMINE CROWD CONTROL PROCEDURES THERE.
MR LI ADDED THAT THE FINAL REPORT BY MR JUSTICE BOKHARY WOULD NOW BE EXAMINED IN ORDER TO IMPLEMENT ANY OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS WHICH APPLIED TO THE POLICE, AND TO CO-OPERATE WITH OTHER AGENCIES AS APPROPRIATE.
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SUPPLY OF RESIDENTIAL UNITS EXPECTED TO GROW
******
THE SUPPLY OF RESIDENTIAL UNITS IN 1993 IS EXPECTED TO INCREASE BY 40 PER CENT TO 37,000 UNITS WHEN COMPARED WITH THE RATE IN 1992.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE LAND AND BUILDING ADVISORY COMMITTEE (LBAC), MR CHENG HON-KWAN, AT THE END OF TODAY’S LBAC MEETING.
MR CHENG SAID THE COMMITTEE WAS INFORMED AT TODAY’S MEETING THAT RESIDENTIAL PRICES THIS YEAR WERE LIKELY TO SOFTEN FURTHER DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS.
BUT, PRICES WILL REMAIN RELATIVELY STABLE IN THE SECOND HALF OF THE YEAR WITH STEADY GROWTH RETURNING LATER IN THE YEAR SHOULD THE CURRENT POLITICAL PROBLEMS BE RESOLVED.
/ON OFFICE .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
3
ON OFFICE ACCOMMODATION, MR CHENG SAID THE DEMAND WAS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE WITH VACANCY RATES IMPROVING, BUT SECONDARY LOCATIONS WERE EXPECTED TO EXPERIENCE HIGH VACANCY LEVELS DUE TO OVER-SUPPLY IN THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE.
HE SAID THE SUPPLY IN THE INDUSTRIAL SECTOR, PARTICULARLY THE OLDER CONVENTIONAL FACTORY/GODOWN ACCOMMODATION, WAS LIKELY TO REMAIN STABLE.
’’STRONG DEMAND WILL CONTINUE FOR ’HI-TECH’ QUALITY INDUSTRIAL ACCOMMODATION WITH A HIGH PROPORTION OF OFFICE USE,” MR CHENG SAID.
MR CHENG EXPECTED THAT THE OVERALL PROPERTY MARKET WAS EXPECTED TO CONSOLIDATE IN THE SHORT TERM AND REMAIN RELATIVELY FIRM THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.
REVIEWING THE PROPERTY MARKET IN 1992, MR CHENG SAID BUYERS IN GENERAL HAD BEEN MORE CAUTIOUS IN RECENT MONTHS OWING TO THE CONTINUING UNCERTAINTIES ON THE NEW AIRPORT FINANCING, U.S. TRADE-RELATED ISSUES, AND DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN CHINA AND BRITAIN ON CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS IN HONG KONG.
”IT IS LIKELY THAT BUYERS WILL CONTINUE TO ACT CAUTIOUSLY UNTIL THESE MATTERS ARE SATISFACTORILY RESOLVED,” HE SAID.
HE SAID LAND OFFICE STATISTICS FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 1992 CONTINUED TO INDICATE A MARKED DROP IN THE NUMBER OF AGREEMENTS TO PURCHASE IN THE NEW TERRITORIES OF 7.9 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING SIX MONTHS WHILE THE AVERAGE DROP FOR THE SAME PERIOD IN THE URBAN AREA WAS 25.9 PER CENT.
IN VALUE TERMS DURING THE SAME PERIOD, THERE WAS A DROP OF 9.4 PER CENT IN THE URBAN AREA BUT A MARGINAL INCREASE OF 3.9 PER CENT IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, HE SAID.
MR CHENG SAID DEMAND WAS STILL EVIDENT FOR RESIDENTIAL FLATS IN THE SMALL-MEDIUM RANGE AND THE LUXURY RESIDENTIAL SECTOR CONTINUED TO PERFORM WELL.
WHILE THE OFFICE SECTOR, STILL FACED WITH A PROJECTED OVER-SUPPLY, REMAINED ACTIVE ALTHOUGH RELATIVELY STABLE, HE SAID THE INDUSTRIAL SECTOR HAD SEEN BUOYANT GROWTH PARTICULARLY FOR HIGH QUALITY INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS CATERING FOR A HIGHER PERCENTAGE OF OFFICE USE.
’’OVERALL, THE PROPERTY MARKET GENERALLY CONSOLIDATED AND STABILISED DURING THE LATTER PART OF 1992,” MR CHENG SAID.
THE NUMBER OF NEWLY COMPLETED UNITS FELL BELOW THE AVERAGE OF 33,700 TAKEN OVER THE LAST SIX YEARS TO AN ESTIMATED 26,200 UNITS.
THE PROVISIONAL VACANCY AND TAKE-UP RATES FOR THIS YEAR WERE ESTIMATED TO BE 34,000 UNITS AND 22,700 UNITS RESPECTIVELY, HE ADDED.
/AT TODAY’S .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
AT TODAY’S MEETING, THE LBAC ALSO NOTED THE PROGRESS OF SEVERAL STUDIES RELATED TO THE PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY WHICH ARE CONDUCTED BY THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AND ENDORSED THE BUILDING AUTHORITY’S PROPOSALS TO AMEND AND UPDATE THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE.
THE MEETING ALSO DECIDED TO SET UP AN AD HOC COMMITTEE TO STUDY THE TWO SUBMISSIONS FROM THE HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS ON "DEVELOPMENT PROCESSING MECHANISM IN HONG KONG" AND "PROCESSING OF SUBMISSIONS UNDER LEASE" IN DETAIL.
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ALL EDUCATION COMMISSION REPORT V RECOMMENDATIONS APPROVED ******
THE GOVERNOR-IN-COUNCIL HAS APPROVED A PACKAGE OF MEASURES RECOMMENDED BY THE EDUCATION COMMISSION IN ITS REPORT NO. 5 (ECR5) FOR IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION IN PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT WITH THE GOVERNOR-IN-COUNCIL’S ENDORSEMENT OF THE PACKAGE, THE WHOLE OF ECR5 COULD NOW BE IMPLEMENTED AS QUICKLY AS RESOURCES ALLOW.
LAST OCTOBER, THE GOVERNOR ANNOUNCED A START IN SEPTEMBER 1993 ON SOME MAJOR RECOMMENDATIONS IN ECR5 .
"THESE INCLUDE ADDITIONAL TEACHERS IN EACH PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS, PLANNING FOR THE INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION, A REDUCTION IN CLASS SIZES BY FIVE PLACES, AND AN INCREASE IN KINDERGARTEN FEE REMISSION FUNDING," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE APPROVED PACKAGE COVERS ALL OTHER ASPECTS OF ECR5, AS WELL AS AN ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATION - FOR A SCHOOL LIBRARY IN EACH PRIMARY SCHOOL - MADE BY THE COMMISSION IN THE LIGHT OF PUBLIC COMMENTS."
PUBLISHED IN JUNE 1992, ECR5 FOCUSES ON THE TEACHING PROFESSION AND HIGHLIGHTS THREE AREAS WHERE IMPROVEMENTS ARE NEEDED TO ENSURE QUALITY EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS:
* IMPROVING THE SCHOOL WORKING ENVIRONMENT;
* PROVIDING A SUBSTANTIAL NUMBER OF GRADUATE POSTS FOR PRIMARY TEACHERS; AND
* CREATING AN AUTONOMOUS INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION TO TAKE OVER THE WORK OF THE COLLEGES OF EDUCATION AND INSTITUTE OF LANGUAGE IN EDUCATION.
FUNDING HAS ALREADY BEEN EARMARKED FOR MOST OF THE IMPROVEMENTS IN THE SCHOOL WORKING ENVIRONMENT, AND ITEMS NOT YET FUNDED ARE THOSE WITH A STARTING DATE IN 1994/95 AND BEYOND.
/THE SPOKESMAN .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
5
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER WOULD BID FOR FUNDS AT THE APPROPRIATE TIME.
FOLLOWING THE APPROVAL OF THE POLICY GOAL OF GRADUATE POSTS FOR UP TO 35 PER CENT OF PRIMARY TEACHERS BY 2007, THE GOVERNMENT WILL SEEK ADVICE FROM THE STANDING COMMISSION ON CIVIL SERVICE SALARIES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE ON APPROPRIATE RANKS AND PAY SCALES.
MEANWHILE, TO ENSURE THAT DEGREE COURSES FOR PRIMARY TEACHERS CAN BE LAUNCHED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, THE GOVERNMENT WILL PROVIDE A COURSE DEVELOPMENT GRANT OF $10 MILLION THIS YEAR.
"WE SHALL INVITE BIDS FOR THE GRANT AS SOON AS THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TEACHER EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS ENDORSES. THE TERMS OF THE GRANT," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"WE INTEND TO APPOINT THE COMMITTEE WITHIN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS."
AS REGARDS THE PROPOSED INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION, THE SPOKESMAN REVEALED THAT PLANNING HAD ALREADY BEGUN, WITH THE APPOINTMENT LAST MONTH OF THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNING COUNCIL.
HR SAID THE GOVERNMENT AIMED TO SET UP THE INSTITUTE BY OCTOBER 1994.
THE ECR5 ALSO RECOMMENDED THAT A COUNCIL ON PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT IN EDUCATION SHOULD BE ESTABLISHED TO PROMOTE TEACHER PROFESSIONALISM AND THAT A REVIEW BE CARRIED OUT IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME TO ASSESS WHETHER A STATUTORY GOVERNING BODY FOR THE PROFESSION SHOULD BE CREATED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE GOVERNMENT INTENDED TO SET UP THE COUNCIL THIS YEAR.
"HOWEVER, WE THINK THAT A MEANINGFUL REVIEW SHOULD BE FEASIBLE WITHIN THREE YEARS RATHER THAN FIVE, AND SO SHALL WORK TOWARDS A REVIEW IN 1996," HE ADDED.
/6 ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
6
Annex A
EDUCATION COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS ON WHICH THE GOVERNOR HAS ANNOUNCED AN EARLY START
I tem
Funds earmarked
to 1996-97 (Smn)
(1) The provision of additional teachers 614
to schools to enable more attention to the needs of the individual child -
up to three more posts in each bisessional primary school (one a year from September 1993) to bring the teacher:class ratio from 1.2 per class to 1.3 per class (ECR5 paras 2.70-71);
one more nongraduate post in each secondary school from September 1994, and a second such post in 1995 in schools with more than 30 classes (para 2.66).
(2) A reduction in class sizes by fiv 449
places (to 35 for standard classes and 30 for activity approach classes) starting in September 1993 with Primary 1 and extending it to higher levels a year at a time (para 2.81).
(3) The apppointment of Provisional 13
Governing Council for the proposed Institute of Education; and upgrading teacher education (para 6.48) 443
(4) The provision of a grant to encourage 10
tertiary institutions to develop selffunding degree courses for serving primary school teachers (para 4.29).
(5) An increase in funding for the 37
kindergarten fee remission scheme, so that after five years this scheme can operate on the same points system as the senior secondary fee remission scheme (para 3.26).
/7 ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
7
Annex B
IMPROVEMENTS IN THE SCHOOL WORKING ENVIRONMENT FOR WHICH FUNDING HAS BEEN EARMARKED TO 1996-97
Funding has already been earmarked for the following measures, recommended in ECR5, to improve the working environment in schools:
(a) developing a systematic induction programme for new teachers (ECR5, paras 2.6-2.8);
(b) improving home-school co-operation (paras 2.18-19);
(c) providing schools affected by noise above 65 dB(A) with noise abatement measures (para 2.39);
(d) examining the case for a slightly larger site area for new schools, to provide a play space of 2 square metres per student (para 2.46);
(e) bringing clerical support in aided primary schools fully in line with that in Government primary schools (para 2.47);
(f) developing a computer database and network of curriculum resources (para 2.53);
(g) improving procedures for revising school grants, to ensure that provision for maintenance is adequate and real values are preserved over time (paras 2.56, 2.59);
(h) raising the teacher:class ratio in whole day primary schools to 1.5 teachers per class, once the 1.3 ratio in bisessional schools is fully phased in (para 2.70);
(i) raising the bisessional primary school senior teacher ratio, over five years, from one Assistant Mas ter/Mi s tress (AM) to every four classes, to one AM for every three classes (para 2.72); P
(j) upgrading two Graduate Master/Mistress (GM) posts in each standard secondary school to senior GM rank (para 3.8).
* Recurrent funding earmarked; Capital funding not yet earmarked.
/8.........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
8
Annex C
ITEMS FOR WHICH FUNDING HAS NOT YET BEEN EARMARKED
Funding has not yet been earmarked for the following measures recommended in ECR5 -
(a) bringing all schools as far as possible up to the latest standard of provision in respect of classrooms and special rooms, if necessary by reprovisioning the school into a modern building (para 2.36);
(b) providing additional non-teaching rooms for staff and student activities (para 2.45).
(c) capital funding for campus development of the Institute of Education.
Funding has also not yet been earmarked for the following additional recommendation made by the Commission in the light of comments during the public consultation on ECR5 -
(d) providing primary schools, where possible, with a school library/resource centre.
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/9 ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
9
APPROPRIATION BILL 1993
*****
COMMENTING ON TODAY’S (THURSDAY) PRESS REPORTS ON THE APPROPRIATION BILL 1993, THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY, MR K Y YEUNG, SAID: ”A HEAD FOR HEAD COMPARISON OF THE APPROVED ESTIMATE FOR 1992/93 WITH THE DRAFT ESTIMATES FOR 1993/94 CAN BE MISLEADING.”
’’THIS IS BECAUSE THE DRAFT ESTIMATES FOR 1993/94 ARE GENERALLY BASED ON 1992 PRICES, WHEREAS THE APPROVED (OR ORIGINAL) ESTIMATES WERE GENERALLY BASED ON 1991 PRICES AND DO NOT REFLECT EITHER SALARY ADJUSTMENTS APPROVED DURING 1992 OR ANY SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISION WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN APPROVED AS A RESULT OF CHANGING DEMAND OR IMPROVEMENTS TO SERVICES.”
HE EXPLAINED THAT IN ACCORDANCE WITH STANDING ORDER 40 OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE CLERK TO LEGCO CIRCULATED THE APPROPRIATION BILL 1993 TO ALL MEMBERS OF LEGCO YESTERDAY (WEDNESDAY).
THIS IS IN LINE WITH NORMAL PRACTICE FOR THE PRESENTATION OF BILLS TO LEGCO, HE NOTED.
MR YEUNG WILL GIVE A FULL BRIEFING TO LEGCO TOMORROW (FRIDAY). AT THE SAME TIME THE SUPPORTING VOLUMES GIVING DETAILS OF THE DRAFT ESTIMATES OF EXPENDITURE FOR 1993/94 WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE.
THE BRIEFING WILL BE AT THE INFORMATION SERVICES
FOLLOWED IMMEDIATELY BY A PRESS CONFERENCE DEPARTMENT.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
THE PRESS CONFERENCE TO BE GIVEN BY MR YEUNG WILL BE HELD AT THE GIS PRESS CONFERENCE ROOM, FIFTH FLOOR, BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, CENTRAL AT 4 PM TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
THE SUPPORTING VOLUMES GIVING THE DETAILS OF THE DRAFT ESTIMATES OF EXPENDITURE FOR 1993/94 WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR ADVANCE READING FROM 2 PM TOMORROW.
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Z10.........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
10 -
TOLLS FOR THREE GOVT TUNNELS DROP *****
TOLLS FOR VEHICLES USING THE ABERDEEN, SHING MUN AND TSEUNG KWAN O TUNNELS WILL BE DECREASED BY $1 WITH EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TODAY (THURSDAY).
THIS MEANS TOLLS AT THE ABERDEEN AND SHING MUN TUNNELS WILL BE LOWERED FROM $6 TO $5, WHILE THAT OF TSEUNG KWAN O TUNNEL WILL GO DOWN FROM $4 TO $3.
ALL $4 AND $6 PRE-PAID GOVERNMENT TUNNEL TICKETS MAY BE EXCHANGED FOR $3 AND $5 TICKETS AT ALL WILSON CARPARK OFFICES FROM TODAY (THURSDAY) FOR A PERIOD OF 28 DAYS.
THESE TICKETS MAY CONTINUE TO BE USED AT GOVERNMENT TUNNELS AND APPROPRIATE CHANGES WILL BE GIVEN.
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SMOOTH RETURN OF VIETNAMESE WELCOMED
*****
THE REFUGEE CO-ORDINATOR, MR BRIAN BRESNIHAN, TODAY (THURSDAY) WELCOMED THE SMOOTH REPATRIATION OF 60 VIETNAMESE NON-REFUGEES UNDER THE ORDERLY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME (ORP).
"WE HAVE RETURNED A TOTAL OF 456 NON-REFUGEES TO VIETNAM UNDER THE ORP AND THERE HAS NOT BEEN A SINGLE SUBSTANTIATED CASE OF PERSECUTION OR DISCRIMINATION.
"TODAY’S FLIGHT WAS LARGELY UNEVENTFUL AND WE WILL CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN REGULAR ORP FLIGHTS TO SUPPLEMENT THE UNHCR’S VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME," HE SAID.
TODAY’S GROUP OF 60 NON-REFUGEES WERE ALL NORTHERNERS COMPRISING 25 MEN, 14 WOMEN, 10 BOYS AND 11 GIRLS.
OF THEM, 50 DEPARTED NEI KWU CHAU DETENTION CENTRE EARLY TODAY FOR THEIR FLIGHT. THE REMAINING 10 WERE CRIMINAL OFFENDERS BEING DEPORTED TO VIETNAM. ALL HAD BEEN SCREENED OUT AS NON-REFUGEES.
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/Il ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
11
REGISTRATION SCHEME FOR TEXTILE PRODUCTS TO BE INTRODUCED
*****
THE GOVERNMENT WILL INTRODUCE LATER IN THE YEAR A REGISTRATION SCHEME WHICH AIMS TO TIGHTEN THE CONTROLS ON TEXTILES AND GARMENT PRODUCTS PASSING THROUGH HONG KONG ON A THROUGH BILL OF LADING, THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR T H CHAU,SAID TONIGHT (THURSDAY).
MR CHAU WAS SPEAKING TO THE FEDERATION OF HONG KONG GARMENT MANUFACTURERS.
HE SAID TO COUNTER THE RISING TIDE OF ALLEGATIONS BY IMPORTING COUNTRIES OF ILLEGAL TRANSHIPMENT, OPPORTUNITY WOULD ALSO BE TAKEN TO RATIONALISE THE EXISTING LICENSING SYSTEM BY REPLACING PRIOR LICENSING OF TEXTILES IMPORTS AND EXPORTS WITH POST-SHIPMENT NOTIFICATIONS EXCEPT FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO RESTRAINED MARKETS.
ON HONG KONG/U.S. TRADE, MR CHAU SAID THERE WERE SEVERAL ISSUES THAT REQUIRED SPECIAL ATTENTION.
"THE U.S. CONCERN ABOUT ILLEGAL TRANSHIPMENT IS ON THE RISE. TO PREVENT QUOTA CUTBACKS, WE MUST ALL ENDEAVOUR TO MAINTAIN THE CREDIBILITY AND INTEGRITY OF OUR TEXTILES CONTROL SYSTEM."
MR CHAU SAID THIS YEAR’S BATTLE FOR MFN RENEWAL WAS GOING TO BE A TOUGH ONE, AGAINST THE BACKDROP OF A NEW POLITICAL LANDSCAPE INTRODUCED BY THE U.S. PRESIDENTIAL AND CONGRESSIONAL ELECTIONS.
"THE ROAD AHEAD IS STILL WROUGHT WITH DIFFICULTIES AND WE MUST CONTINUE OUR HARD WORK AND CLOSE CO-OPERATION ON ALL FRONTS," HE SAID.
MOVING TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ATLANTIC, MR CHAU SAID WHILE CHANGES IN EASTERN EUROPE AND THE REMOVAL OF REGIONAL RESTRAINTS AND SUBLIMITS IN THE EC PROMISED NEW OPPORTUNITIES AND HORIZONS, BETTER MARKET ACCESS FOR HONG KONG COULD ONLY BE SECURED IF WE WERE AT LEAST ONE STEP AHEAD OF OUR COMPETITORS.
ACCORDING TO CONSULTANTS COMMISSIONED BY THE GOVERNMENT, THE GARMENT INDUSTRY MUST CONTINUE TO UPGRADE ITS MANUFACTURING CAPABILITY AND PROVIDE MORE DESIGNING, MERCHANDISING, SOURCING AND QUALITY CONTROL SERVICES TO CUSTOMERS IN ORDER TO REMAIN COMPETITIVE, MR CHAU SAID.
"GOVERNMENT IS SUPPORTING THE INDUSTRY’S SEARCH FOR APPROPRIATE NEW TECHNOLOGY THROUGH VARIOUS AGENCIES, NOTABLY THE CLOTHING TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATION CENTRE AND THE INDUSTRY AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL," HE SAID.
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/12 ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
- 12
COMPULSORY INSPECTION OF GOODS VEHICLES
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) ANNOUNCED DETAILS OF COMPULSORY INSPECTION OF GOODS VEHICLES.
ALL LIGHT GOODS VEHICLES AND SPECIAL PURPOSE VEHICLES WITH A GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT BETWEEN 1.9 TONNES AND 5.5 TONNES WHICH ARE ONE-YEAR-OLD OR OVER REQUIRING A NEW LICENCE STARTING ON OR AFTER JUNE 1 MUST BE INSPECTED AT A DESIGNATED VEHICLE EXAMINATION CENTRE AND TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE OF ROADWORTHINESS.
THIS REQUIREMENT ALSO APPLIES TO MEDIUM GOODS VEHICLES, HEAVY GOODS VEHICLES AND SPECIAL PURPOSE VEHICLES WITH A GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT EXCEEDING 5.5 TONNES AND MANUFACTURED BEFORE 1989.
THE CERTIFICATE IS ONLY VALID FOR RELICENSING DURING THE FOUR MONTHS IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE DATE OF ISSUE, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.
ENQUIRIES ON EXAMINATION AND APPOINTMENTS FOR GOODS VEHICLES AND SPECIAL PURPOSE VEHICLES HAVING A GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT EXCEEDING 1.9 TONNES BUT NOT MORE THAN 16 TONNES SHOULD BE MADE AT THE NEW KOWLOON BAY VEHICLE EXAMINATION CENTRE, 8 TSUI HING STREET, KOWLOON BAY, KOWLOON. TELEPHONE NUMBER IS 751 8862.
FOR GOODS VEHICLES AND SPECIAL PURPOSE VEHICLES HAVING A GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT GREATER THAN 16 TONNES, ENQUIRIES ON EXAMINATION AND APPOINTMENTS SHOULD BE MADE AT THE KOWLOON BAY VEHICLE EXAMINATION CENTRE, 2 CHEUNG YIP STREET, KOWLOON BAY, KOWLOON. TELEPHONE NUMBER IS 759 7573.
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CONTRACTORS URGED TO ENSURE CAISSON WORKERS’ SAFETY *******
CONSTRUCTION SITE CONTRACTORS ARE REMINDED OF THEIR STATUTORY OBLIGATIONS TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF CAISSON WORKERS, LABOUR DEPARTMENT'S DEPUTY CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR, MR YIP WAI-HUNG, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
MR YIP MADE THE APPEAL FOLLOWING THE COMPLETION OF A THREE-DAY PROMOTION CAMPAIGN DURING WHICH FACTORY INSPECTORS AND EMPLOYEES’ TRADE UNION REPRESENTATIVES VISITED CONSTRUCTION SITES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY TO PROMOTE SAFETY AWARENESS AMONG CONTRACTORS AND WORKERS ENGAGED IN CAISSON WORKS.
DURING THE VISITS, FACTORY INSPECTORS ADVISED CONTRACTORS TO EXERCISE STRICT SUPERVISION TO ENSURE THAT THEIR SUB- CONTRACTORS COMPLY WITH LEGAL OBLIGATIONS IN THEIR DAILY WORK.
’’THESE INCLUDE THE PROVISION OF A SAFE WORKING ENVIRONMENT, INFORMATION ON POSSIBLE HAZARDS, TRAINING AND SUPERVISION, AND NECESSARY SAFETY EQUIPMENT FOR WORKERS.
/"MEANWHILE, TRADE ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
13
"MEANWHILE, TRADE UNION REPRESENTATIVES URGED CAISSON WORKERS TO OBSERVE AND COMPLY WITH THE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, INCLUDING THE USE OF SAFETY EQUIPMENT NECESSARY FOR CAISSON WORKS," MR YIP SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT EMPLOYERS WHO FAILED TO COMPLY WITH THE SAFETY PROVISIONS WERE LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $50,000 AND 12 MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT WHILE THE MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR AN OFFENDING EMPLOYEE WAS A FINE OF $10,000.
THE SAFETY PROMOTION CAMPAIGN IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF TRADE UNIONS, THE HONG KONG CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY EMPLOYEES GENERAL UNION AND THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
DURING THE CAMPAIGN, FACTORY INSPECTORS ALSO DISTRIBUTED TO WORKERS FREE SAFETY GUIDES AND RESPIRATORS FOR PREVENTING INHALATION OF HARMFUL DUST.
"FACTORY INSPECTORS ARE ALWAYS READY TO GIVE ADVICE ON SAFETY IN CAISSON WORKS," HE SAID, ADDING THAT ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE TO LABOUR DEAPRTMENT’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE ON 852 3555.
--------0 -
SATURDAY DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS
******
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS TO THE NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT SCHEME IS ON SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 27), A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
THE SPOKESMAN URGED APPLICANTS TO RETURN THEIR COMPLETED APPLICATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING FIVE ADDRESSES:
« ROOM G02, LUI KEE EDUCATION SERVICES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG;
* CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE, ROOM 601, HARBOUR BUILDING, SIXTH FLOOR, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
* YAU TSIM DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE, SEVENTH FLOOR, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 405 NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON;
* YUEN LONG DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE YUEN LONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES AND TAI KIU MARKET, FOURTH FLOOR, 2 KIU LOK SQUARE, YUEN LONG; AND
* SHA TIN DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE, THIRD FLOOR, KCRC HOUSE, SHA TIN.
APPLICANTS CAN ALSO MAKE APPOINTMENTS TO HAND IN THEIR APPLICATIONS BY CALLING 892 6635, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
OVER 1,100 SETS OF NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT APPLICATION DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN DISTRIBUTED SINCE FEBRUARY 5.
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/14.........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
14 -
200 CALLS A DAY AT AUTOMATIC ENQUIRY SERVICE *****
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE ENQUIRY SERVICE, WHICH IS ON A FOUR-MONTH TRIAL RUN, RECEIVED AN AVERAGE OF 200 CALLS A DAY SINCE ITS LAUNCH ON FEBRUARY 15.
TOTAL NUMBER OF MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO USED THE SERVICE ON TEL 891 0088 FROM FEBRUARY 15 TO YESTERDAY (FEBRUARY 24) WAS 1,893, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
THE SERVICE INCLUDES FAX INFORMATION AND CALL TRANSFERS. REQUESTS FOR FAX MESSAGES TOTALLED 155 AND FOR CALL TRANSFERS, 259.
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT THE SERVICE WAS BEING TESTED TO ITS LIMIT TO SCREEN OUT ANY FAULTS IN THE COMPUTERISED SYSTEM.
"FOR THE PAST TWO DAYS FOR INSTANCE, WE FOUND THAT THE CLOCK DEVICE WAS OUT OF KILTER AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC REQUIRING CALL TRANSFERS FOUND THEMSELVES BEING TOLD TO CALL BACK DURING OFFICE HOURS WHEN IN FACT IT WAS WITHIN THAT PERIOD,” HE SAID.
BECAUSE OF THIS, HE SAID, THE FIGURES FOR CALL TRANSFERS WOULD HAVE BEEN MUCH HIGHER.
BUT THIS GREMLIN HAD BEEN EXORCISED, HE ADDED.
"THE DEPARTMENT IS ALSO LOOKING INTO ENHANCING THE ’FLESH-AND-BLOOD’ SIDE WHICH FORMS A VITAL PART OF THE AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE ENQUIRY SERVICE," HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID ONE COMPLAINT WAS RECEIVED VIA A LOCAL NEWSPAPER ON A STUDENT WHO REQUIRED STUDENT GUIDANCE SERVICE.
"MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC CAN REST ASSURED THAT WE WILL CONSTANTLY MONITOR AND RECTIFY ALL SITUATIONS," HE SAID.
NEW ITEMS WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE SERVICE.
"WE HAVE, FOR INSTANCE, UPDATED THE INFORMATION OF THE NON-GRADUATE TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS ASSESSMENT SCHEME TO ALERT POTENTIAL APPLICANTS OF THE FEBRUARY 27 DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS.
"WE WILL ALSO INCLUDE MORE FAX INFORMATION SUCH AS THE SCHOOL LIST OF ALL TYPES OF SCHOOLS IN THE 19 DISTRICTS AND VACANCIES FOR PART-TIME ADULT EDUCATION COURSE LECTURERS," HE ADDED.
--------0 -----------
/15 ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
15
GURKHA DRIVERS CELEBRATE ROYAL SEAL
*****
THE BRITISH ARMY’S ONLY GURKHA TRANSPORT REGIMENT WILL CELEBRATE THE GRANTING OF ’’ROYAL” STATUS WITH A RE-BADGING PARADE AT ITS KOWLOON BARRACKS ON SATURDAY (FEBRUARY 27).
HM THE QUEEN APPROVED IN OCTOBER LAST YEAR THAT THE GURKHA TRANSPORT REGIMENT SHOULD BE KNOWN AS ’’THE QUEEN’S OWN GURKHA TRANSPORT REGIMENT”.
THE HONOUR WILL BE MARKED AT SATURDAY’S PARADE BY THE PRESENTATION BY COMMANDER BRITISH FORCES, MAJOR-GENERAL JOHN FOLEY, OF CAP BADGES BEARING THE NEW TITLE TO 15 RECRUITS WHO WILL ALSO BE TAKING THE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE AT A CEREMONY CALLED KASAM KHANE.
THE EVENING ALSO FEATURES A DISPLAY BY ’’MOTORISED" LION DANCE TEAMS AND A DRIVE-PAST OF REGIMENTAL VEHICLES, INCLUDING THE SARACEN ARMOURED VEHICLES WHICH WILL BE ON PARADE FOR THE LAST TIME.
THE REGIMENT GOES BACK TO 1965 AND IT IS NOW COMPOSED OF BRITISH, GURKHA AND LOCAL CHINESE SOLDIERS.
ITS MAIN ROLE IS THE PROVISION OF GARRISON TRANSPORT, BUT IT ALSO WORKS IN CO-OPERATION WITH OTHER ELEMENTS OF BRITISH FORCES ON EXERCISE IN HONG KONG AND OVERSEAS AND OPERATES A MARITIME TROOP.
RECENTLY SOLDIERS FROM THE REGIMENT SERVED IN THE GULF DURING OPERATION GRANBY AND WITH THE UN IN CYPRUS.
NOTE:
FACILITIES WILL BE AVAILABLE TO PHOTOGRAPH AND FILM THE RE-BADGING PARADE.
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES SHOULD ARRIVE AT THE AUSTIN ROAD ENTRANCE TO GUN CLUB HILL BARRACKS, KOWLOON, BEFORE 6.15 PM. JSPRS REPRESENTATIVES WILL BE ON HAND TO HELP.
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/16 ........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
- 16 -
SOCIAL STATISTICS REPORT ON SALE
*****
A REPORT CONTAINING FINDINGS ON NINE SOCIAL TOPICS OF THE GENERAL HOUSEHOLD SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT FROM OCTOBER 1990 TO SEPTEMBER 1991 IS PUBLISHED TODAY (THURSDAY).
THE NINE TOPICS ARE:
* RADIO AUDIENCESHIP;
* ATTENDING CULTURAL PERFORMANCES;
* KIDNEY DONATION;
* DENTAL CONSULTATION;
* HOSPITALISATION;
♦ MEDICAL BENEFITS PROVIDED BY EMPLOYER/COMPANY AND MEDICAL INSURANCE;
* DOMESTIC HELPERS;
♦ INSTALLATION AND USE OF ANTI-THEFT DEVICE IN MOTOR VEHICLES; AND
♦ HONG KONG RESIDENTS MARRIED IN CHINA
THE ’’SPECIAL TOPICS REPORT NO. VIII” IS NOW ON SALE AT $43 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, OR AT THE PUBLICATIONS SALES COUNTER OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
--------0-----------
CYC SPECTACULAR ON SATURDAY *****
COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB (CYC) ACTIVITIES THIS YEAR WILL AUGMENT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S SERIES OF PUBLICITY CAMPAIGNS TO ENHANCE A POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS LIFE AMONG STUDENTS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) A CYC CARNIVAL AND TELEVISION SPECTACULAR WOULD BE HELD IN THE KOWLOON PARK PIAZZA ON SATURDAY TO MARK ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY.
”A SERIES OF ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMMES HAVE BEEN DESIGNED FOR CYC MEMBERS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. IT IS HOPED THAT THROUGH THEIR PARTICIPATION, THE MESSAGE OF ’POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS LIFE’ WILL BE EFFECTIVELY DRIVEN HOME,” HE ADDED.
/APART FROM .......
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
17
APART FROM THE CARNIVAL AND TV SPECTACULAR, MAJOR PROGRAMMES AND ACTIVITIES PLANNED ARE AN ANTI-SMOKING RALLY, POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION, AND A HUGE POSTER TO BE DESIGNED AND PUT TOGETHER BY CYC MEMBERS TO CELEBRATE THE ’’INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF FAMILY 94”.
COMMUNITY SERVICES AND OTHER CELEBRATIONS WILL ALSO BE ORGANISED ON DISTRICT LEVEL.
GAME STALLS WILL BE SET UP IN THE CARNIVAL AND POPULAR ARTISTES WILL PROVIDE ENTERTAINMENT. THE TV SPECTACULAR WILL BE RECORDED AND SHOWN ON TVB JADE AT 1.45 PM ON SUNDAY, MARCH 7.
THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR DOMINIC S W WONG, AND THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING, MR CHU PUI-HING, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT.
------0-------
BOE MEMBERS VISIT PUI KIU MIDDLE SCHOOL ♦ ♦ ♦ * *
THREE BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBERS LED BY ITS CHAIRMAN, MR TIMOTHY HA WING-HO, AND ACCOMPANIED BY THE PRINCIPAL EDUCATION OFFICER (HONG KONG), MR DAVID PUN WANG-KEUNG, VISITED PUI KIU MIDDLE SCHOOL AT NORTH POINT TODAY (THURSDAY).
THE THREE MEMBERS WERE MR CHAN KIN-HUNG, MS SANSAN CHING TEH-CHI AND MR PETER LEE SHUNG-TAK.
THE GROUP WAS MET BY THE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, MR TSANG YOK-SING.
MEMBERS WERE TOLD THE SCHOOL, WHICH JOINED THE DIRECT SUBSIDY SCHEME IN SEPTEMBER 1991, WAS FOUNDED IN 1946 AND THAT ITS PARENT-TEACHER ASSOCIATION WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1958.
THE 24-CLASSROOM SCHOOL ALSO HAS AN AUDITORIUM, A GYMNASIUM, A TENNIS COURT, SWIMMING POOL, DANCE STUDIO, A COMPUTER AND LANGUAGE LABORATORY, AND A CANTEEN FOR STAFF AND STUDENTS.
THE SCHOOL ALSO HAS AIR-CONDITIONED BOARDING FACILITIES FOR 220 STUDENTS. THE ANNUAL BOARDING FEE IS $9,000, THE BOE MEMBERS WERE TOLD.
------0-------
/18.........
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1993
18 -
DTC REGISTRATION REVOKED
******
THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING ANNOUNCED THAT THE REGISTRATION OF SUN POH SHING FINANCE COMPANY LIMITED AS A DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANY HAS BEEN REVOKED AT THE CLOSE OF BUSINESS TODAY (THURSDAY) AT ITS OWN REQUEST UNDER SECTION 31(2) OF THE BANKING ORDINANCE.
------0 - -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 114.0
1,620 + 530
2,150 NIL
-320
1,830
*+0.2* 25.2.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.40 PCT 15 MONTHS 2405 5.50 102.57 3.37
1 MONTH 2.60 PCT 18 MONTHS 2408 5.50 101.37 3.45
3 MONTHS 2.84 PCT 21 MONTHS 2411 4.375 101.68 3.64
6 MONTHS 2.98 PCT 24 MONTHS 2502 4.625 101.70 3.88
12 MONTHS 3.30 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 15,250 MN
CLOSED 25 FEBRUARY 1993
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR TO VISIT JAPAN, BRUSSELS AND LONDON ................. 1
MORE MONEY TO BOOST KEY SERVICES ............................. 2
GOVT STAYS FIRM ON TUNG TAU, LAGUNA PROJECTS ................. 3
JOSEPH YAM ATTENDS ASIAN BANKERS MEETING ..................... 5
CONTRACT FOR CHEUNG CHING TUNNEL AND ASSOCIATED ROAD WORKS .. 5
TIGHTER CONTROL ON OIL STORAGE INSTALLATIONS ................. 6
PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR JANUARY ............ 7
POLICE SMASH FORGED U.S. BANKNOTE SYDNTCATE .................. 9
OVERCROWDING TN PRISONS NEEDS IMPROVEMENT .................... 10
PARENTS PLAY VITAL ROLE TN DEVELOPMENT OF DISABLED CHILDREN 10
NEW ROAD TRAFFIC LAW EFFECTIVE NEXT MONDAY ................... 12
CHANGES TO POK FU LAM OUTLINE ZONING PLAN .................... 12
NEW PIER TN TSTNG LUNG TAU ................................... 13
/ANNUAL PERFORMANCE .......
ANNUAL PERFORMANCE OF SHA TIN CHILDREN'S CHOIR .................. 14
NEW PHONE NUMBERS FOR EAST KOWLOON POLYCLINIC ................... 15
PUTTING HONG KONG ON THE MAP .................................... 15
FEES FOR APPROVAL OF AERIAL ROPEWAYS DUTIES REVISED ............. 16
ADULT EDUCATION LECTURING VACANCIES ............................. 17
TENDERS CALLED FOR SCHOOLS TN NORTH POINT, FANLTNG .............. 18
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
18
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
1
GOVERNOR TO VISIT JAPAN, BRUSSELS AND LONDON *****
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, WILL VISIT JAPAN, BRUSSELS AND LONDON DURING THE NEXT TWO MONTHS.
MR PATTEN’S VISIT TO JAPAN WILL TAKE PLACE BETWEEN MARCH 4 AND 8. HE WILL MEET SENIOR POLITICAL LEADERS, GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS, BANKERS AND BUSINESS LEADERS IN TOKYO.
HE WILL ALSO ATTEND THE NINTH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE UNITED KINGDOM-JAPAN 2000 GROUP AT AWASHIMA AND GIVE AN ADDRESS ON "HONG KONG AND SOUTH CHINA IN AN ASIAN PACIFIC CONTEXT".
THE UNITED KINGDOM-JAPAN 2000 GROUP IS A PRIVATE BILATERAL FORUM WITH A MEMBERSHIP DRAWN FROM GOVERNMENT, INDUSTRY, FINANCE AND ACADEMICS IN BOTH COUNTRIES. ITS MEETINGS ARE PRIVATE.
THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THAT HONG KONG HAS FEATURED AS A MAJOR ITEM ON THE GROUP’S AGENDA AND MR PATTEN IS PLEASED TO BE ABLE TO LEAD A DISCUSSION DURING A SPECIAL SESSION OF THE CONFERENCE.
THE GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN ADDED: "THE INVITATION TO MR PATTEN IS A MAJOR OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLAIN HONG KONG’S PIVOTAL ROLE IN THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF SOUTH CHINA AND THE REGION."
MR PATTEN WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY HIS DEPUTY PRIVATE SECRETARY, MS ANNE SHEPHERD AND THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR KERRY MCGLYNN.
THE GOVERNOR WILL VISIT BRUSSELS ON APRIL 1 AND 2. HE WILL MEET REPRESENTATIVES OF THE BELGIAN GOVERNMENT AND THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION TO DISCUSS TRADE AND OTHER ISSUES.
MR PATTEN WILL GIVE A SPEECH TO THE CENTRE FOR EUROPEAN POLICY STUDIES ON "HONG KONG: ONWARDS TO 1997 .......... AND BEYOND" BEFORE TRAVELLING ON TO LONDON ON APRIL 2.
TN LONDON MR PATTEN WILL SEE MINISTERS AND OFFICIALS. HE WILL ALSO GIVE TWO MAJOR SPEECHES. THE FIRST TO THE ROYAL INSTITUTE FOR INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS (CHATHAM HOUSE), AND THE SECOND, TO THE TORY REFORM GROUP.
MR PATTEN WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY HIS PRIVATE SECRETARY, MR BOWEN LEUNG, THE INFORMATION CO-ORDINATOR, MR MIKE HANSON AND PERSONAL ADVISER, MR EDWARD LLEWELLYN. MR PATTEN WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG AFTER THE EASTER WEEKEND.
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/2 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
2
MORE MONEY TO BOOST KEY SERVICES *****
THE DRAFT ESTIMATES OF EXPENDITURE FOR 1993/94, WHICH ARE PUBLISHED TODAY (FRIDAY) TOGETHER WITH THE GAZETTING OF THE APPROPRIATION BILL, PROPOSE MAJOR INCREASES IN SPENDING TO EXPAND SERVICES IN AREAS WHERE THEY ARE MOST NEEDED.
THE ESTIMATES ALSO REPRESENT THE FIRST STEPS TOWARDS ACHIEVING, AND IN SOME AREAS IMPROVING ON, THE AMBITIOUS TARGETS SET BY THE GOVERNOR IN HIS POLICY ADDRESS IN OCTOBER LAST YEAR.-
TOTAL GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURE, INCLUDING EXPENDITURE FOR THE FUNDS, FOR THE NEW FINANCIAL YEAR WILL RISE TO $132.5 BIJULION, AN INCREASE OF 15 PER CENT OVER THAT PLANNED FOR THE CURRENT YEAR.
ANNOUNCING THIS TODAY, THE SECRETARY FOR THEtTREASURY, MR K Y YEUNG, EXPLAINED THAT OF THE TOTAL OF $132..5 BILLION, $99.3 BILLION WOULD -COVER COSTS OF PROVIDING EXISTING AND NEW SERVICES, AND $33.2 BILLION WOULD BE SPENT ON CAPITAL PROJECTS.
’’THIS BUDGETARY STRATEGY HAS BEEN DECIDED AFTER CONSULTATIONS HELD BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, WITH MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON SPENDING PRIORITIES DURING THE PAST YEAR, AND WHICH CONTRIBUTED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE AMBITIOUS TARGETS IN KEY PROGRAMME AREAS ANNOUNCED BY THE GOVERNOR LAST OCTOBER.
”IT ALSO TAKES INTO ACCOUNT OUR LONG-STANDING PRINCIPLE THAT EXPENDITURE GROWTH SHOULD NOT EXCEED THE TREND GROWTH OF THE ECONOMY, A PRINCIPLE THAT HAS SERVED US WELL OVER MANY YEARS,” HE SAID.
MR YEUNG EXPLAINED THAT WITH A PROJECTED TREND ECONOMIC GROWTH RATE OF FIVE PER. CENT A YEAR, IT WAS POSSIBLE TO INCREASE RECURRENT EXPENDITURE BY AROUND FIVE PER CENT IN REAL TERMS, THAT IS OVER AND ABOVE THE RATE OF INFLATION.
’’THIS MEANS SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS TN KEY PROGRAMME AREAS WHERE ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ARE MOST NEEDED,” HE SAID.
SOME EXAMPLES ARE :
RECURRENT SPENDING ON SOCIAL WELFARE WILL INCREASE BY 7.8 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS TO $9 BILLION.
"SPECIFIC BENEFITS INCLUDE THE INTRODUCTION OF A COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE SCHEME; AN EXTRA 1,780 RESIDENTIAL PLACES AND 27 SERVICE CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY; 710 EXTRA RESIDENTIAL PLACES FOR THE MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED; AND 1,860 ADDITIONAL PLACES IN NURSERIES, CRECHES AND SMALL GROUP HOMES FOR CHILDREN,” MR YEUNG SAID.
ON THE HEALTH FRONT, RECURRENT EXPENDITURE WILL GO UP BY 7.8 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS TO $14.8 BILLION IN THE NEXT FINANCIAL YEAR.
’’NEW FACILITIES WILL INCLUDE 950 EXTRA HOSPITAL BEDS, AND NINE NEW CLINICS OR OTHER SERVICE UNITS,” HE SAID.
/FOR EDUCATION .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
3
FOR EDUCATION, RECURRENT EXPENDITURE WILL GO UP IN REAL TERMS BY 7.3 PER CENT TO $22.2 BILLION.
’’BENEFITS IN THIS PROGRAMME AREA INCLUDE 785 ADDITIONAL PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS, SMALLER PRIMARY ONE CLASS SIZE, 30 MORE WHOLE-DAY PRIMARY SCHOOLS, AND 1,500 NEW FIRST-YEAR, FIRST-DEGREE PLACES,” HE SAID.
FOR A BETTER ENVIRONMENT, EXPENDITURE WILL GO UP BY 42.8 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS TO $1.3 BILLION.
"THIS WILL BRING ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR VARIOUS FACILITIES LIKE THE CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT CENTRE, THE REFUSE TRANSFER STATIONS, SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANTS, AND THE WEST NEW TERRITORIES LANDFILL," MR YEUNG ADDED.
"ALL THESE INCREASES REPRESENT EXPENDITURE GROWTH IN REAL TERMS, THAT IS TO SAY, THESE REFLECT GROWTH AFTER ALLOWING FOR INFLATION," HE SAID.
ON UNDERSPENDING IN RESPECT OF PUBLIC WORKS, MR YEUNG SAID SPENDING IN 1992/93 WOULD BE $17.6 BILLION, AGAINST THE ORIGINAL ESTIMATE OF $24.9 BILLION.
"THIS DEGREE OF UNDERSPENDING IS CLEARLY A SERIOUS PROBLEM AND ONE WHICH MUST NOT CONTINUE," HE SAID.
"IT IS OUR FIRM INTENTION TO ENSURE THAT SPENDING ON THE CAPITAL WORKS PROGRAMME IN THE NEXT FINANCIAL YEAR WILL RETURN TO A LEVEL IN LINE WITH OUR GUIDELINE.
"THIS MUST BE ACHIEVED IF WE ARE TO DELIVER THE PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS TO OUR INFRASTRUCTURE.
"THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, WILL BE ANNOUNCING A RANGE OF MEASURES TO TACKLE THIS PROBLEM IN HIS BUDGET SPEECH ON MARCH 3," HE SAID.
-----0-------
GOVT STAYS FIRM ON TUNG TAU, LAGUNA PROJECTS
*****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS REAFFIRMED ITS RESOLVE TO PROCEED WITH THE HOSTEL PROJECT FOR SEVERELY MENTALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS IN TUNG TAU ESTATE AND THE ACTIVITY CENTRE AT LAGUNA CITY.
EXPLAINING THE GOVERNMENT’S POSITION AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL PANEL ON WELFARE SERVICES MEETING THIS (FRIDAY) MORNING, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD CONSIDERED AT LENGTH THE ARGUMENTS PUT FORWARD BY RESIDENTS AGAINST THE PROJECT.
"BUT I MUST SAY I FIND THESE ARGUMENTS TOTALLY INVALID," MRS WONG SAID.
/’’IN FACT.............
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
"IN FACT, ANY ARGUMENTS FOUNDED ON PREJUDICE AND ACCOMPANIED BY THREATS CAN NEVER BE VALID.
"THE HOSTEL PROJECT IN TUNG TAU ESTATE MUST PROCEED AS ORIGINALLY PLANNED," SHE STRESSED.
AS A RESPONSIBLE GOVERNMENT, MRS WONG CONTINUED, IT MUST TAKE THE LEAD TO PROTECT THE RIGHTS AND INTERESTS OF THE NEEDY AND STRIVE TO UPHOLD JUSTICE FOR THEM.
"THEY NEED OUR SUPPORT," SHE SAID. "I AM HERE TO RECONFIRM OUR COMMITMENT TO THE PROJECT.
"I AM HERE TO SOLICIT YOUR SUPPORT FOR IT."
MRS WONG SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S BASIC PRINCIPLE WAS TO PROVIDE THE SEVERELY HANDICAPPED PERSONS WITH THE SERVICES THEY NEEDED AND AT THE SAME TIME INTEGRATED THEM INTO THE COMMUNITY.
"THIS PRINCIPLE IS ADOPTED INTERNATIONALLY AND HAS BEEN PRACTISED IN HONG KONG FOR MANY YEARS," SHE STRESSED.
AND SHE SAID THE GOVERNMENT MUST ALSO RESPECT COMMUNITY ASPIRATIONS.
"THE HOSTEL IS REQUIRED TO MEET AN URGENT SOCIAL DEMAND AND HAS THE SUPPORT OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD AND THE TUNG TAU AREA COMMITTEE," SHE SAID, ADDING THAT THE MEDIA AND THE COMMUNITY AT LARGE WERE ALSO BEHIND THE GOVERNMENT.
MRS WONG TOLD THE PANEL MEMBERS SHE HAD VISITED THE TUNG TAU AND LAGUNA CITY SITES A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO AND TALKED TO THE PEOPLE THERE.
"IT IS ABUNDANTLY CLEAR TO ME THAT THE OBJECTION COMES FROM JUST SOME LOCAL AND VOCAL RESIDENTS WHO HAVE REFUSED TO GIVE UP THEIR PREJUDICE AGAINST THE SEVERELY MENTALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS," SHE SAID.
WHILE STRESSING THAT THE COMMUNITY MUST STAND FIRM IN THE FACE OF SUCH BLIND OBJECTION, SHE SAID: "WE MUST ALSO CONTINUE OUR PUBLIC EDUCATION DRIVE TO CONVINCE THEM THAT THEY HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR."
MRS WONG NOTED THAT IT HAD BEEN THE GOVERNMENT’S ESTABLISHED POLICY TO SET UP REHABILITATION FACILITIES IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES.
PREVIOUS PROJECTS HAVE PROVEN THAT THIS APPROACH IS SUCCESSFUL AND HAS NOT CAUSED ANY INCONVENIENCE TO RESIDENTS.
MRS WONG EXPLAINED TO PANEL MEMBERS THAT THE PURPOSE OF CONSULTATION ON THE PROVISION OF SOCIAL WELFARE AND REHABILITATION FACILITIES AT THE DISTRICT LEVEL WAS NOT TO SEEK RESIDENTS’ APPROVAL FOR SETTING UP COMMUNITY SERVICES IN THEIR NEIGHBOURHOOD.
/"THROUGH CONSULTATION
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
5
"THROUGH CONSULTATION, LOCAL RESIDENTS ARE INFORMED OF THE SERVICES WE INTEND TO PROVIDE IN A DISTRICT AS WE WANT TO BE OPEN AND TRANSPARENT IN OUR MANAGEMENT PROCESS," SHE ADDED.
SPEAKING TO MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES AFTER THE WELFARE SERVICES PANEL MEETING, MRS WONG RELAYED THE TOTAL CONSENSUAL SUPPORT FROM THE WELFARE PANEL FOR THE GOVERNMENT’S STAND.
-----o------
JOSEPH YAM ATTENDS ASIAN BANKERS MEETING ******
CHIEF EXECUTIVE (DESIGNATE) OF THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY, MR JOSEPH YAM, IS CURRENTLY IN TOKYO ATTENDING THE FIFTH EXECUTIVES’ MEETING OF EAST-ASIA AND PACIFIC CENTRAL BANKS, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EXCHANGE FUND OFFICE SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
THIS IS THE FIRST TIME HONG KONG HAS BEEN INVITED TO ATTEND THESE MEETINGS, WHICH ARE HELD HALF YEARLY AND ARE HOSTED BY THE BANK OF JAPAN.
COMMENTING ON HONG KONG’S ATTENDANCE AT THESE MEETINGS, MR YAM SAID HE WAS PLEASED THAT THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY, SOON TO BE FORMALLY ESTABLISHED, WAS BEING ACCEPTED AS A MEMBER OF THE WORLD’S CENTRAL BANKING FRATERNITY.
THIS WOULD ENABLE THE AUTHORITY TO KEEP CLOSELY IN TOUCH WITH THOSE IN OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD RESPONSIBLE FOR MONETARY AND BANKING MATTERS, AND TO PROMOTE HONG KONG AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE, MR YAM SAID.
THE MEETING IS ATTENDED BY SENIOR EXECUTIVES OF EAST-ASIA AND PACIFIC CENTRAL BANKS, INCLUDING THE PEOPLES’ BANK OF CHINA’S DEPUTY GOVERNOR, MR CHEN YUAN.
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CONTRACT FOR CHEUNG CHING TUNNEL AND ASSOCIATED ROAD WORKS *****
THE CENTRAL TENDER BOARD HAS ACCEPTED A $856 MILLION TENDER SUBMITTED BY DRAGAGES ET TRAVAUX PUBLICS, PART OF THE BOUYGUES S A GROUP OF FRANCE, FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE CHEUNG CHING TUNNEL ON THE TSING YI ISLAND SECTION OF ROUTE 3, THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THIS CONTRACT IS A MAJOR ELEMENT IN THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME'S HIGHWAYS NETWORK LINKING THE NEW AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK AND TUNG CHUNG NEW TOWN TO KOWLOON AND CENTRAL HONG KONG.
ROUTE 3 IS PLANNED AS A MAJOR NORTH-SOUTH HIGHWAY LINKING THE BORDER AND NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES WITH WEST KOWLOON VIA TSING YI.
/THE FIRST .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
6
THE FIRST PART TO BE CONSTRUCTED FALLS WITHIN THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME AND CONNECTS THE LANTAU FIXED CROSSING WITH THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY. THE CHEUNG CHING TUNNEL ON TSING YI ISLAND FORMS PART OF THIS SECTION.
THIS CONTRACT COMPRISES CONSTRUCTION OF A 1.6 KM DUAL THREE-LANE TWIN-BORED TUNNEL, TWO TUNNEL PORTAL CONTROL BUILDINGS, AND 0.9 KM OF ASSOCIATED ROAD WORKS.
TENDERS WERE RECEIVED FROM SEVEN PRE-QUALIFIED TENDERERS AND DRAGAGES SUBMITTED THE LOWEST PRICED BID.
CONSTRUCTION WORK WILL START NEXT MONTH AND IS TO BE COMPLETED BY JANUARY 1997.
THE WORKS HAVE BEEN DESIGNED AND WILL BE SUPERVISED FOR THE GOVERNMENT’S HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT BY SPHW CONSULTANTS, HEADED BY SCOTT WILSON KIRKPATRICK & PARTNERS.
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TIGHTER CONTROL ON OIL STORAGE INSTALLATIONS
THE GOVERNMENT IS TO TIGHTEN CONTROL ON THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF OIL STORAGE INSTALLATIONS.
THE BUILDING STORAGE INSTALLATIONS) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993 GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY) GIVES THE BUILDING AUTHORITY MORE POWERS TO REVOKE THE LICENCE OF AN OIL STORAGE INSTALLATION IF IT HAS NOT BEEN OPERATED OR CONSTRUCTED IN A SAFE MANNER.
’’THE AMENDMENT REGULATION WILL ALSO EXTEND EXISTING CONTROL ON SAFETY AND POLLUTION ASPECTS OF OIL TANKS TO ASSOCIATED WORKS OF AN OIL STORAGE INSTALLATION WHICH WILL BE SUBJECT TO ANNUAL INSPECTION BY THE APPROPRIATE AUTHORITIES," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE SAID.
"THE LICENSING PROCEDURES WILL BE IMPROVED TO TIGHTEN CONTROL ON ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS TO AN EXISTING INSTALLATION."
THESE MEASURES HAVE BEEN FORMULATED AFTER A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW INVOLVING THE OIL INDUSTRY. THE REVIEW IS TO ENSURE THAT THE LOCAL OIL INDUSTRY COMPLIES WITH THE UP-TO-DATE INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS SET FOR OIL STORAGE INSTALLATIONS," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
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/7 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
7
PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR JANUARY ♦ * * » ♦
RE-EXPORTS LAST MONTH (JANUARY) MAINTAINED A STRONG GROWTH, WHILE DOMESTIC EXPORTS REGISTERED ONLY A SMALL INCREASE IN VALUE OVER JANUARY LAST YEAR.
AT THE SAME TIME, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS CONTINUED TO GROW MARKEDLY.
THESE ARE SHOWN IN THE PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS IN JANUARY 1993 ROSE BY $10,157 MILLION OR 26% OVER A YEAR EARLIER TO $49,165 MILLION.
THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCREASED BY $394 MILLION OR 2.8% TO $14,559 MILLION.
TAKING RE-EXPORTS AND DOMESTIC EXPORTS TOGETHER, THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS IN JANUARY 1993 GREW BY $10,551 MILLION OR 19.8% OVER A YEAR EARLIER TO $63,724 MILLION.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS INCREASED BY $7,442 MILLION OR 13.3% TO $63,350 MILLION.
AS THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS WAS LARGER THAN THAT OF TOTAL IMPORTS, A VISIBLE TRADE SURPLUS OF $374 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 0.6% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, WAS RECORDED IN JANUARY 1993.
THIS COMPARED WITH A DEFICIT OF $2,735 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 4.9% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, RECORDED IN JANUARY 1992.
COMMENTING ON THE JANUARY TRADE FIGURES, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID RETAINED IMPORTS DECREASED MODERATELY BY 4.7% IN VALUE TERMS OVER A YEAR EARLIER, AS TRADERS HAD PROBABLY ADVANCED THEIR IMPORT SHIPMENT TO DECEMBER 1992 IN ANTICIPATION OF THE HIGHER DEMAND DURING THE LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL.
THUS TAKING THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JANUARY 1993 TOGETHER, RETAINED IMPORTS ATTAINED A YEAR-ON-YEAR GROWTH RATE OF 8.9% IN VALUE TERMS, IN LINE WITH THE ROBUST DOMESTIC DEMAND.
A SEPARATE ANALYSIS OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE BY COMMODITY AND COUNTRY FOR JANUARY WILL BE RELEASED IN MID-MARCH.
/PRIVISIONAL FIGURES .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
8
PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR JANUARY 1993
MERCHANDISE: Domestic Exports : $14,559 million
Re-exports : $49,165 million
Total Exports : $63,724 million
Imports • • $63,350 million
Trade bal ance +$374 million
COMPARATIVE FIGURES
Nov 92 to Nov 91 to Chantfp
Latest 3 months Jan 93 Jan 92
HK$ Mn HK$ Mn HK$ Mn X
Domestic Exports 56,544 56,921 -377 -0.7
(X of Total Exports) (24.2%) (28.4X)
Re-exports 176,754 143,795 +32,959 + 22.9
Total Exports 233,298 200,716 +32,583 + 16.2
Imports Trade balance 238,690 -5,391 203,598 -2,882 +35,092 -2,509 + 17.2
Same month last year January January Chantfp
1993 1992
HK$ Mn HK$ Mn HK$ Mn X
Domestic Exports 14,559 14,165 + 394 + 2.8
(X of Total Exports) (22.8X) (26.6X)
Re-exports 49,165 39,008 +10,157 + 26.0
Total Exports Imports 63,724 63,350 53,174 55,909 +10,551 +7,442 + 19.8 + 13.3
Trade balance + 374 -2,735 +3,109
Last month January 1993 December 1992 Change
HK$ Mn HK$ Mn HK$ Mn X
Domestic Exports 14,559 21,658 -7,099 -32.8
(X of Total Exports) (22.8%) (25.2X)
Re-exports 49,165 64,284 -15,119 -23.5
Total Exports 63,724 85,942 -22,218 -25.9
Imports 63,350 90,232 -26,881 -29.8
Trade balance + 374 -4,290 +4,664
Feb 92 to Feb 91 to Chantfp
Last 12 months Jan 93 Jan 92
HK$ Mn HK$ Mn HK$ Mn X
Domestic Exports 234,518 226,034 +8,483 + 3.8
(X of Total Exports) (25.IX) (29.7X)
Re-exports 700,986 534,829 +166,157 + 31.1
Total Exports 935,503 760,863 +174,640 + 23.0
Imports 962,737 774,230 +188,506 + 24.3
Trade balance -27,233 -13,367 -13,866
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/9 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
9
POLICE SMASH FORGED U.S. BANKNOTE SYNDICATE * * ♦ ♦ »
POLICE HAVE MADE ONE OF ITS LARGEST SEIZURES OF COUNTERFEIT U.S. BANKNOTES DURING A JOINT OPERATION MOUNTED BY COMMERCIAL CRIME BUREAU (CCB), INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION (ICAC) AND U.S. SECRET SERVICE.
IT IS BELIEVED THAT A LOCALLY BASED FORGED U.S. BANKNOTE SYNDICATE HAVE BEEN SMASHED FOLLOWING THE ARRESTS OF 10 MALE SUSPECTS BY CCB AND THE SEIZURE OF COUNTERFEIT U.S. BANKNOTES WITH A FACE VALUE OF ABOUT U.S.$ 7 MILLION.
ACTING ON INFORMATION, OFFICERS FROM CCB BEGAN INVESTIGATIONS INTO A COUNTERFEIT U.S. BANKNOTE SYNDICATE IN SEPTEMBER, 1992.
OFFICERS WERE LATER INFORMED THAT OFFICERS OF ICAC WERE ALSO INVESTIGATING THE SAME SUSPECTS FOR ALLEGED CORRUPTION.
BASED ON THE INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE U.S. SECRET SERVICE IN EARLY FEBRUARY, OFFICERS OF CCB AND ICAC TOOK ACTION.
AROUND NOON YESTERDAY (THURSDAY), A JOINT OPERATION WAS CONDUCTED DURING WHICH OFFICERS FROM CCB RAIDED MORE THAN 20 LOCATIONS OVER THE TERRITORY.
ABOUT 100 POLICE OFFICERS WERE DEPLOYED TN THE RAIDS WHICH ENDED ABOUT 4 AM THIS (FRIDAY) MORNING RESULTING IN THE ARREST OF 10 MALE SUSPECTS AND THE SEIZURE OF A LARGE QUANTITY OF FORGED U.S. BANKNOTES WITH A FACE VALUE OF ABOUT U.S.$ 7 MILLION.
THE RING LEADER OF THE SYNDICATE, A 48-YEAR-OLD MAN, WAS ARRESTED DURING A RAID IN MONG KOK.
POLICE ALSO SEIZED SOME PRINTING EQUIPMENT, SOME COPPER PLATES AND A QUANTITY OF SHREDDED COUNTERFEIT U.S. BANKNOTES.
THE SEIZED BANKNOTES WERE ALL IN THE NOMINAL VALUE OF $20 AND $100.
AMONG THE ARRESTED MEN AGED BETWEEN 36 AND 67, ONE HAS BEEN RELEASED UNCONDITIONALLY WHILE THE OTHERS ARE STILL BEING DETAINED FOR ENQUIRIES.
POLICE INVESTIGATIONS ARE PROCEEDING.
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/10 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
10 OVERCROWDING IN PRISONS NEEDS IMPROVEMENT ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ *
MORE RESOURCES ARE NEEDED TO MEET THE INCREASED DEMANDS OF THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, THE OUTGOING DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, MR JOHN ASHWORTH, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE PROBLEM OF OVERCROWDING AND SHORTAGE OF FACILITIES MUST BE OVERCOME SOON IF WE ARE TO AVOID A DETERIORATION IN STANDARDS AND A BREAKDOWN IN DISCIPLINE, HE SAID.
"BECAUSE ONCE STANDARDS DROP, AND I KNOW THIS FROM FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE, THEY ARE VERY DIFFICULT TO REVERSE," HE POINTED OUT.
ADDRESSING A PASSING-OUT PARADE IN STANLEY TODAY (FRIDAY), MR ASHWORTH TOLD THE YOUNG STAFF THAT THE DEPARTMENT’S TASK HAD NEVER BEEN AN EASY ONE, ESPECIALLY WHEN NORMAL DAY-TO-DAY PROBLEMS WERE AGGRAVATED BY OVERCROWDING IN PRISONS AND INADEQUATE FACILITIES.
"REGRETTABLY OVERCROWDING STILL EXISTS TODAY AS IT DID WHEN I JOINED THE SERVICE. THIS IS PLACING GREAT PRESSURE ON INSTITUTIONAL FACILITIES AND STAFF, AS WELL AS HAVING A NEGATIVE IMPACT ON REHABILITATION PROGRAMMES," HE SAID.
LOOKING BACK AT HIS LONG AND DISTINGUISHED CAREER WITH THE DEPARTMENT, MR ASHWORTH SAID THE DEPARTMENT TODAY WAS MUCH DIFFERENT FROM THE ONE HE JOINED IN 1962.
"IN THE INTERVENING YEARS HONG KONG HAS PROGRESSED AND THE DEPARTMENT HAS ALSO UNDERGONE SIGNIFICANT CHANGES WHICH HAVE SEEN POSITIVE CORRECTIONAL PROGRAMMES REPLACE THE ’WAREHOUSING’ OF PRISONERS WHICH WAS COMMON IN THE 60’S AND EARLY 70’S," HE SAID.
HE TOLD THOSE ON PARADE THAT THE MOST IMPORTANT ATTRIBUTES OF A CORRECTIONAL SERVICES OFFICER WERE A HIGH DEGREE OF INTEGRITY, DEDICATION, A PLENTIFUL SUPPLY OF PATIENCE AND, AT TIMES, COURAGE.
MR ASHWORTH WILL RETIRE IN MARCH THIS YEAR AFTER SERVING IN THE DEPARTMENT FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS.
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PARENTS PLAY VITAL
ROLE IN DEVELOPMENT OF DISABLED CHILDREN
MRS PATTEN TODAY (FRIDAY) EXTENDED HER PERSONAL ADMIRATION TO PARENTS WHO HAD DEDICATED THEIR LOVE AND CARE TO THEIR DISABLED CHILDREN, TURNING DISABILITY INTO ABILITY.
"RAISING A CHILD IS NEVER AN EASY TASK AT THE BEST OF TIMES. I AM SURE THIS IS EVEN MORE SO FOR PARENTS WITH A CHILD WITH A DISABILITY,” MRS PATTEN SAID.
/OFFICIATING AT .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
11
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING OF THE HEEP HONG SOCIETY JESSIE AND THOMAS TAM CENTRE, MRS PATTEN SAID PARENTS DID NOT SIMPLY LEAVE THEIR CHILDREN FOR PROFESSIONAL STAFF, THEY ALSO CAME TO LEARN THE SPECIAL SKILLS TO BRING UP THEIR CHILDREN.
SHE SAID PARENTS OF DISABLED CHILDREN WORKED IN CLOSE PARTNERSHIP WITH THE REHABILITATIVE SERVICE CENTRES PROVIDING EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR THEIR CHILDREN.
THE CENTRE IS THE SEVENTH EARLY EDUCATION AND TRAINING CENTRE (EETC) RUN BY THE HEEP HONG SOCIETY FOR HANDICAPPED CHILDREN. WITH THE CENTRE, THE SOCIETY IS NOW THE BIGGEST AND LEADING ORGANISATION IN THE FIELD OF REHABILITATION OF DISABLED CHILDREN.
IMMENSELY IMPRESSED BY THE RICH DECORATION OF CHILDREN’S HANDICRAFTS AND PAINTINGS INSIDE THE CENTRE, MRS PATTEN SAID IT VIVIDLY ILLUSTRATED THE CREATIVITY AND TREMENDOUS POTENTIAL OF THE CHILDREN.
"THESE QUALITIES COULD BE FOUND IN ALL CHILDREN, INCLUDING THOSE WITH DISABILITIES.
"HOWEVER, TO ENABLE THE POTENTIAL OE DISABLED CHILDREN TO DEVELOP TO THE FULLEST EXTENT, EARLY INTERVENTION AND STIMULATION ARE OF GREAT IMPORTANCE," SHE SAID.
KNOWING WELL THE IMPORTANCE AND THE DIFFICULTIES OF PARENTHOOD, MRS PATTEN SAID HEEP HONG HAD PIONEERED A PARENTS’ RESOURCE CENTRE PROJECT TO PROVIDE PARENTS WITH REFERENCE MATERIALS ON DISABILITIES AND CARING TECHNIQUES.
THE RESOURCE CENTRE OFFERS COUNSELLING SERVICE, RUNS TALKS AND SEMINARS, AND ORGANISES SOCIAL AND RECREATIONAL ACITVITIES FOR PARENTS TO MEET AND RELAX.
THROUGH THESE ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCE SHARING, PARENTS ACQUIRE BETTER KNOWLEDGE ABOUT REHABILITATION CARE OF THEIR CHILDREN, SHE SAID.
"MORE IMPORTANTLY, THEY BUILD UP MUTUAL CARE AND HELP,” SHE SAID.
MRS PATTEN SAID THE INTEGRATION OF THE EETC AND THE PARENTS RESOURCES CENTRE WOULD PROVIDE ADDED CONVENIENCE TO PARENTS.
SHE WAS CONFIDENT THAT THE NEW CENTRE WOULD BE EQUALLY SUCCESSFUL AND WARMLY WELCOMED BY PARENTS.
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/12 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
12
NEW ROAD TRAFFIC LAW EFFECTIVE NEXT MONDAY , *****
THE ROAD TRAFFIC (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) ORDINANCE 1992 WILL COME INTO EFFECT NEXT MONDAY (MARCH 1) TO PROVIDE A LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR EXEMPTING DISABLED PERSONS FROM PAYMENT OF CHARGES AT METERED PARKING SPACES AND FOR IMPLEMENTING TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SCHEMES FOR ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION PURPOSES.
THE STARTING DATE OF THE ORDINANCE WAS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR ACCORDING TO A NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE FIRST PART OF THE ORDINANCE ENABLES THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL TO MAKE REGULATIONS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUE OF DISABLED PERSONS PARKING PERMITS AND TO EXEMPT THE HOLDERS OF SUCH PERMITS FROM PAYMENT OF METER FEES.
"THIS EXEMPTION RELEASES DISABLED DRIVERS WITH WALKING DIFFICULTY FROM THE BURDEN OF HAVING TO RETURN TO THEIR CARS AT REGULAR INTERVALS TO PAY FEES," A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE PERMITS WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING PRIVILEGED PARKING LABELS ISSUED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT.
THE SECOND PART OF THE ORDINANCE EMPOWERS THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT TO REGULATE THE USE OF ROADS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL.
THE SPOKESMAN NOTED THAT IT HAD BEEN THE GOVERNMENT'S INTENTION TO IMPLEMENT THE TSING YI TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT TRIA!, SCHEME TO DIVERT HEAVY VEHICLES FROM CENTRAL/WESTERN/NORTHERN ROADS TO SOUTHERN ROADS ON THE ISLAND DURING NIGHT HOURS.
"THE SCHEME WILL BE IMPLEMENTED ON A TRIAL BASIS FOR THREE MONTHS AND IS EXPECTED TO BRING RELIEF TO THE MAJORITY OF TSING YI RESIDENTS FROM NIGHT-TIME TRAFFIC NOISE DISTURBANCE CAUSED BY HEAVY VEHICLES," HE SAID.
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CHANGES TO POK FU LAM OUTLINE ZONING PLAN
******
THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD TODAY (FRIDAY) ANNOUNCED AMENDMENTS TO THE DRAFT POK FU LAM OUTLINE ZONING PLAN.
THE AMENDMENTS MADE UNDER THE TOWN PLANNING ORDINANCE ARE:
* REZONING FIVE PIECES OF WELL-VEGETATED GOVERNMENT LAND AT THE NORTHERN PART OF POK FU LAM FROM RESIDENTIAL TO "GREEN BELT" TO ENHANCE CONSERVATION OF THE ENVIRONMENT;
* AMENDING THE ZONING BOUNDARY OF A "RESIDENTIAL (GROUP B)" SITE ON THE HEADLAND AT WATERFALL BAY TO COINCIDE WITH THE BOUNDARIES OF THE EXISTING CUT PLATFORMS;
/* REZONING A .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
13
* REZONING A ’’GOVERNMENT/INST ITUTION/COMMUNITY” SITE AT WAH LAM PATH TO ’’OPEN SPACE” FOR DEVELOPMENT OF AN OPEN SPACE;
* REZONING THE CHINESE CHRISTIAN CEMETERY AND THOSE AREAS OF POK FU LAM COUNTRY PARK COVERED BY THE OUTLINE ZONING PLAN TO COMPLY WITH THE LAND USE ZONES STIPULATED UNDER THE TOWN PLANNING ORDINANCE; AND
* UPDATING THE NOTES TO ACCORD WITH THE CURRENT ADOPTED PRACTICE.
THE AMENDMENT PLAN (PLAN NO. S/H10/4) AND THE SCHEDULE OF AMENDMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION UNTIL APRIL 26 AT THE FOLLOWING OFFICES:
* THE HONG KONG DISTRICT PLANNING OFFICE, 11TH FLOOR, LEIGHTON CENTRE, LEIGHTON ROAD, HONG KONG;
* THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT, 16TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG; AND
* THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, SHOP 25, GROUND FLOOR, MEI FUNG COURT, ABERDEEN CENTRE, ABERDEEN, HONG KONG.
ANY PERSON AFFECTED BY THE AMENDMENTS MAY SEND HIS OBJECTION IN WRITING TO THE SECRETARY OF THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD, C/O PLANNING DEPARTMENT 13TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG ON OR BEFORE APRIL 26, 1993.
COPIES OF THE AMENDMENT PLAN ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG; AND KOWLOON MAP SALES OFFICE, 382 NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON.
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NEW PIER IN TSI NG LUNG TAU * ♦ ♦ * *
THE GOVERNMENT IS TO BUILD A FERRY PIER AT TSING LUNG TAU, TSUEN WAN, TO REPLACE THE EXISTING ONE WHICH IS DILAPIDATING.
THE PIER MEASURING ABOUT 95 METRES LONG AND 27.5 METRES WIDE WILL BE LOCATED TO THE IMMEDIATE WEST OF THE EXISTING PIER.
CONSTRUCTION OF THE PIER IS TO START AROUND AUGUST THIS YEAR AND IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN NOVEMBER.
THE EXISTING PIER WILL BE DEMOLISHED WHEN THE NEW ONE IS COMPLETED.
THE EXTENT OF THE WORKS AREA AFFECTED IS DESCRIBED IN A NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
/ANY PERSON .......
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
14 -
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HE HAS AN INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED MAY SUBMIT A WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS ON OR BEFORE APRIL 25.
THE NOTICE IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE TOGETHER WITH ITS RELATED PLAN CAN BE SEEN ON NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITE.
THE PLAN CAN ALSO BE SEEN AT THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG AND AT THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE, FIRST FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, 174-208 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, TSUEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES.
THE PLAN CAN ALSO BE BOUGHT AT THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT IN MURRAY BUILDING.
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ANNUAL PERFORMANCE OF SHA TIN CHILDREN’S CHOIR * * * * *
THE CHILDREN’S CHOIR UNDER SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD WILL STAGE ITS ANNUAL PERFORMANCE IN SHA TIN TOWN HALL TOMORROW (SATURDAY) EVENING.
THE CHOIR WAS SET UP IN 1979 WITH SUPPORT FROM THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD. IT HAS NOW OVER 100 MEMBERS, AGED BETWEEN SIX AND 15.
THE GROUP PROVIDES FORMAL MUSIC EDUCATION TO LOCAL YOUTH WITH AN AIM TO CULTIVATE COMMUNITY SPIRIT AMONG THEM.
THIS YEAR’S PERFORMANCE WILL FEATURE A VARIETY OF CHILDREN FOLK SONGS OF DIFFERENT COUNTRIES.
TICKETS, AT $50, $30 AND $20, ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT SHA TIN TOWN HALL.
A PRIZE-PRESENTATION CEREMONY OF A DANCE COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE SHA TIN ARTS ASSOCIATION WILL ALSO BE HELD ON SUNDAY EVENING TN SHA TIN TOWN HALL.
DANCES WILL BE PERFORMED BY THE WINNERS AND ADMISSION TO THIS PROGRAMME IS FREE.
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/15 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
15
NEW PHONE NUMBERS FOR EASi KOWLOON POLYCLINIC
* * * « »
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT TELEPHONE NUMBERS FOR THREE SERVICES AT THE EAST KOWLOON POLYCLINIC IN NGAU CHI WAN WOULD BE CHANGED FROM NEXT TUESDAY (MARCH 2).
THE NEW TELEPHONE NUMBERS ARE:
* GENERAL OUT-PATIENT DEPARTMENT 320 4240
* MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CENTRE 321 7822
* TUBERCULOSIS AND CHEST CLINIC 352 0077
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THESE SERVICES COULD NO LONGER BE REACHED BY THE PRESENT TELEPHONE NUMBER, 327 0283, FROM
THAT DATE.
------0-------
PUTTING HONG KONG ON THE MAP
*****
IT IS HARD TO IMAGINE THAT IN THIS CENTURY PEOPLE LOST THEIR LIVES JUST ON MAPPING SURVEYS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.
BUT IN 1902 AND 1903 TWO BRITISH SURVEYORS AND FIVE INDIAN LABOURERS PERISHED ON JUST SUCH A TASK.
ANOTHER FOUR OUT OF THE TOTAL OF SIX BRITISH SURVEYORS ON THE PROJECT DIED FROM DISEASE ON THEIR WAY HOME FROM HONG KONG.
THESE ARE JUST SOME OF THE FASCINATING FACTS IN A NEW BOOK THAT REALLY PUTS HONG KONG ON THE MAP.
"MAPPING HONG KONG" SUBTITLED "A HISTORICAL ATLAS" IS THE MOST AMBITIOUS AND PRESTIGIOUS PUBLICATION EVER ISSUED BY THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES.
WRITTEN BY HAL EMPSON, FORMER SENIOR GOVERNMENT CARTOGRAPHER WITH THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, IT TRACES THE HISTORY OF MAPPING IN HONG KONG FROM A 12TH CENTURY CHINESE WORK TO STATE-OF-THE-ART, COMPUTER-GENERATED AND SATELLITE MAPS.
THE 250-PAGE VOLUME CONTAINS NEARLY 170 FULL-PAGE, FULL-COLOUR ILLUSTRATIONS OF RARE AND UNUSUAL MAPS AND CHARTS. THEY SHOW HONG KONG’S GROWTH FROM AN ALMOST UNINHABITED ISLAND, OFTEN IGNORED IN EARLY NAVIGATION CHARTS, TO ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST IMPORTANT TRADING CENTRES.
THE BOOK TOOK MORE THAN FOUR YEARS TO PRODUCE. MUCH OF THIS TIME WAS TAKING UP BY MR EMPSON’S RESEARCH INTO MAP COLLECTIONS, RANGING FROM THOSE IN THE BRITISH LIBRARY IN LONDON TO CHARTS HELD BY PRIVATE COLLECTORS AND PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE TERRITORY TAKEN FROM SPACE
/THE BOOK ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
16
THE BOOK IS A MUST FOR HISTORIANS, GEOGRAPHERS, CARTOGRAPHERS, ACADEMICS AND ANYONE INTERESTED IN HONG KONG’S HISTORY AND GROWTH.
THE MAGNIFICENT ILLUSTRATIONS INCLUDE A CHINESE MAP, CARVED IN STONE AND DATED 1137, THE OLDEST MAP OF THE AREA KNOWN TO EXIST.
OTHER PLATES INCLUDE EARLY NAVIGATIONAL CHARTS BY DUTCH, FRENCH AND BRITISH SEAMEN.
PROVINCIAL GAZETTEERS BY CHINESE ADMINISTRATORS PROVIDE A WEALTH OF INFORMATION ABOUT THE GEOGRAPHY, ADMINISTRATION AND ECONOMY OF THE AREA.
ALSO INCLUDED ARE SOME OF THE EARLIEST AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE TERRITORY, DATING FROM THE 1920s. WARTIME AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN DURING THE OCCUPATION SHOW JAPANESE FIGHTERS TAKING OFF FROM KAI TAK TO INTERCEPT THE AMERICAN RECONNAISSANCE PLANES.
EARLY TOURIST GUIDES INCLUDE ONE BY AN ENTERPRISING ENGLISHMAN WHO, LAST CENTURY, CONDUCTED ONE-DAY WALKS THROUGH SOUTHERN CHINA.
THE ITINERARY INCLUDED WALKING FROM MIRS BAY/SHUM CHUN RIVER TO TSUEN WAN WITH STOPS FOR WILD BIRD SHOOTING EN ROUTE, AN EXPEDITION ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO MAKE TODAY.
’’MAPPING HONG KONG”, AT $498, IS AVAILABLE FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING; GIS PUBLICATIONS SALES SECTION, FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, CENTRAL; THE KOWLOON MAP SALES OFFICE, 382 NATHAN ROAD, MONG KOK, AND DISTRICT OFFICES.
--------0
FEES FOR APPROVAL OF AERIAL ROPEWAYS DUTIES REVISED ♦ ♦ * ♦ * * ♦
FEES FOR THE APPROVAL OF COMPETENT STAFF TO UNDERTAKE AERIAL ROPEWAYS DUTIES WILL BE REVISED TO REFLECT THE HIGHER COSTS OF MAINTAINING THE SERVICE.
THE AERIAL ROPEWAYS (FEES) REGULATION GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY) PRESCRIBES THE REVISED FEES UNDER FIVE CATEGORIES AS FOLLOWS:
* FEES FOR APPROVAL AS A SURVEYOR $2,250
FEES FOR APPROVAL AS A COMPETENT PERSON $800
* FEES FOR APPROVAL AS A CONTROLLER $800
FEES FOR APPROVAL AS AN OPERATOR $500
♦ FEES FOR APPROVAL FOR AN OPERATOR $500
HOLDING A LIMITED CERTIFICATE
/A SPOKESMAN
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
17 -
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT SAID THE FEES HAD NOT BEEN REVISED SINCE THEIR INTRODUCTION IN APRIL 1991.
THE NEW FEES WILL COME INTO EFFECT TODAY.
------0--------
ADULT EDUCATION LECTURING VACANCIES ♦ * * t ♦
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT IS INVITING QUALIFIED TEACHERS TO FILL EVENING PART-TIME LECTURING VACANCIES IN VARIOUS ADULT COURSES FOR THE 1993 SCHOOL YEAR.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID WOULD RE REQUIRED TO TEACH EVENING COURSES DEPARTMENT*S \PUI V EDUCATION SECTION THKOl GHOl T
SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS ORGANISED BY THE THE TERRITORY.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THEY INCLUDED ENGLISH, GOVERNMENT EVENING SECONDARY AND ADULT EDUCATION COURSES.
HE SAID EXPERIENCE TN TEACHING ENGLISH LANGUAGE AT POST-SECONDARY OR SENIOR SECONDARY LEVELS; CHINESE LANGUAGE, SCIENCE, SOCIAL SUBJECTS OR COMMERCIAL SUBJECTS AT SENIOR SECONDARY LEVELS AND POSSESSION OF A DIPLOMA OR CERTIFICATE IN EDUCATION OR ADVANCED CERTIFICATE IN TEACHER TRAINING WOULD BE AN ADVANTAGE.
EXISTING REMUNERATIONS FOR PART-TIME LECTURING ARE:
♦ $270 PER HOUR FOR POST-SECONDARY LEVEL SUBJECTS;
* $225 PER HOUR FOR SENIOR SECONDARY LEVEL SUBJECTS;
* $180 PER HOUR FOR JUNIOR SECONDARY LEVEL SUBJECTS; AND
♦ $165 PER HOUR FOR PRIMARY LEVEL SUBJECTS.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE OBTAINABLE FROM THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S ADULT EDUCATION SECTION ON THE 11 TH FLOOR OF WU CHUNG HOUSE, 213 QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI.
APPLICATION FORMS SHOULD BE RETURNED BEFORE MARCH 27.
FOR FURTHER ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT THE ADULT EDUCATION SECTION ON TEL 892 6669.
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Z18 ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
18 TENDERS CALLED FOR SCHOOLS IN NORTH POINT, FANLING ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING THE CONSTRUCTION OF A SECONDARY SCHOOL IN NORTH POINT RESPECTIVELY.
TENDERS FOR AND FANLING
THE ONE IN NORTH POINT WILL BE BUILT ON WHARF ROAD WHILE THAT
IN FANLING WILL BE IN AREA 29B.
BOTH SCHOOLS ARE OF GOVERNMENT STANDARD DESIGN. EACH OF THEM WILL HAVE A MAIN TEACHING BLOCK, A BLOCK OF SPECIAL ROOMS, AN ASSEMBLY HALL, SEPARATE ANCILLARY BUILDINGS AND STAFF QUARTERS.
THE MAIN TEACHING BLOCK WILL CONTAIN 26 CLASSROOMS WITH A LIBRARY, A COMPUTER ROOM AND STAFF ROOMS ON THE UPPER FLOORS AND ADMINISTRATION OFFICES AND CHANGING ROOMS ON THE GROUND FLOOR.
THE BLOCK OF SPECIAL ROOMS WILL HOUSE FACILITIES FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNICAL SUBJECTS.
ALSO, THERE WILL BE A BASKETBALL COURT, A COVERED PLAY AREA, A CAR PARK AND PLANTING AREAS IN BOTH SCHOOLS.
WORKS FOR THE TWO PROJECTS ARE EXPECTED TO START THIS MAY FOR COMPLETION BY AUGUST NEXT YEAR.
TENDER OFFERS WILL CLOSE AT NOON ON MARCH 19.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 34TH FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG.
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
*****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,8.10
REVERSAL OF LAE +320
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,150
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -220
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,930
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 114.1 *+0.1* 26.2.93
/HONG KONG ........
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1993
- 19 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS
TERMS YIELD TERM
1 WEEK 2.37 PCT 15 MONTHS
1 MONTH 2.65 PCT 18 MONTHS
3 MONTHS 2.85 PCT 21 MONTHS
6 MONTHS 3.03 PCT 24 MONTHS
12 MONTHS 3.40 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
2405 5.50 102.44 3.46
2408 5.50 101.26 3.52
241 1 4.375 101.56 3.71
2502 4.625 101.56 3.95
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS
CLOSED 26 FEBRUARY 1993
- 10,281 MN
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR COMMENDS GOOD WORK OF ROAD SAFETY PATROL ............ 1
NO DECISION ON MID-STREAM OPERATION SITE ..................... 2
PUBLIC CONSULTATION SOON ON CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES REPORT 2
ORAL HEALTH PROGRAMME LAUNCHED ............................... 3
LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS SALE BY AUCTION ............. 5
"NO. 2" BRINGS S9.5 MILLION TO LOTTERIES FUND ................ 6
HARBOUR SPEED LIMITS WILL BE EXAMINED ........................ 6
APPEAL FOR VOLUNTEERS TO HELP PROBATIONERS ................... 8
CARNIVAL TO SPREAD KEEP-CLEAN MESSAGE ........................ 9
DISTRICT HISTORY BOOKLET IN THE MAKE ......................... 9
FIRING PRACTICE IN MARCH ..................................... 10
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
11
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
- 1
GOVERNOR COMMENDS GOOD WORK OF ROAD SAFETY PATROL
*****
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, TODAY (SATURDAY) PRAISED THE VOLUNTARY SERVICE WHICH THE ROAD SAFETY PATROL HAD RENDERED TO THE COMMUNITY FOR THE PAST 30 YEARS IN PROMOTING NOT ONLY ROAD SAFETY BUT ALSO CIVIC COMMITMENTS TO THE WELL-BEING OF HONG KONG.
’’THIS IS A MAGNIFICANT SCHEME AND YOU HAVE A JUSTIFIABLE PRIDE IN YOUR RECORD.
"EVERYDAY, THERE ARE 300,000 CHILDREN UNDER YOUR CARE. NO ONE HAS BEEN INJURED AT ROAD CROSSING POINTS UNDER YOUR CONTROL IN THE WHOLE OF THOSE 30 YEARS," MR PATTEN SAID.
THE GOVERNOR WAS ADDRESSING THE ROAD SAFETY PATROL 30TH ANNIVERSARY REVIEW AT VICTORIA PARK WHICH WAS PARTICIPATED BY MORE THAN 1,500 ROAD SAFETY PATROL MEMBERS FROM 66 TEAMS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.
"I KNOW HOW MUCH YOUR FAMILIES, YOUR TEACHERS AND YOUR FRIENDS TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR EFFORTS AND SO DO I AS GOVERNOR.
"IT IS A PARTICULAR TRIBUTE TO YOUR EFFORTS THAT DESPITE A LARGE INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF CARS ON THE ROADS OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS, THE NUMBER OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS AND CASULTIES HAS DECLINED SIGNIFICANTLY," MR PATTEN SAID.
THE GOVERNOR EXPRESSED HIS HOPE THAT WITH THE HELP OF THE ROAD SAFETY PATROL AND WITH A MAJOR PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN WHICH THE GOVERNMENT WAS GOING TO MOUNT IN THE COMING YEAR, THE ROAD SAFETY RECORD TN HONG KONG COULD BE FURTHER IMPROVED.
MR PATTEN SAID THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ROAD SAFETY PATROL WERE FAR WIDER THAN JUST PROMOTING ROAD SAFETY.
"YOU HAVE TAKEN PART IN OTHER COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES, LIKE CLEAN HONG KONG, ANTI-NARCOTICS, FIGHT (’RIME, CIVIC EDUCATION DAYS AND WALKS FOR MILLIONS.
"THAT IS FURTHER PROOF OF YOUR AND OTHER YOUNG PEOPLE’S COMMITMENTS TO THE WELL-BEING OF THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE," HE ADDED.
THE GOVERNOR CONCLUDED HIS ADDRESS BY PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE ROAD SAFETY PATROL SCHEME’S RECENT EXPANSION TO INCLUDE SOME KINDERGARTEN AND ELDERLY SERVICE CENTRES TO FURTHER PROMOTE COMMUNITY SPIRIT AMONG ALL AGE GROUPS IN HONG KONG.
0
/2 .........
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
2
NO DECISION ON MID-STREAM OPERATION SITE * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT HAS YET TO MAKE A FINAL DECISION ON THE PROPOSAL TO DESIGNATE AREA 16 IN TUEN MUN AS A SHORT-TERM TENANCY SITE FOR MIDSTREAM OPERATIONS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS BRANCH SAID: "WE ARE STILL IN THE PROCESS OF CONSULTING THE INTERESTED PARTIES ON THE PROPOSAL, IN PARTICULAR THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD.
"ASSESSMENTS WILL BE MADE ON THE IMPACT OF THE PROPOSAL ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND TRANSPORT. MEMBERS OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD WILL BE FURTHER CONSULTED ON THE FINDINGS OF THE ASSESSMENTS."
THE SPOKESMAN SAID AREA 16 WAS INITIALLY IDENTIFIED AS A POSSIBLE TEMPORARY SITE FOR MID-STREAM OPERATIONS BECAUSE OF ITS GOOD WATER FRONTAGE AND LOCATION IN RELATION TO THE LOADING AND UNLOADING OF GOODS FROM SHIPS IN THE HARBOUR.
THE GOVERNMENT HAS NO INTENTION TO MAKE AREA 16 AS A PERMANENT SITE FOR MID-STREAM OPERATION.
"THE PLAN IS THAT WE WILL RELOCATE ALL SHORT-TERM TENANCY SITES TO PERMANENT HOMES AS PART OF THE OVERALL PORT DEVELOPMENT.
"IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE FIRST OF SUCH PERMANENT SITES WILL BE AVAILABLE ON STONECUTTERS ISLAND BY THE END OF 1995 ON COMPLETION OF THE RECLAMATION THERE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
-------0
PUBLIC CONSULTATION SOON ON CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES REPORT *****
A DRAFT REPORT OF A REVIEW ON SERVICES OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES WILL BE OPEN FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION IN MAY, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR IAN STRACHAN, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
MR STRACHAN WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE STEWARDS’ COMPANY (HONG KONG) LIMITED KWONG YUEN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRE.
A WORKING PARTY WAS SET UP LAST MARCH TO CONDUCT THE REVIEW TO SEE IF THESE CENTRES HAD MAXIMISED THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO THE OVERALL DEVELOPMENT OF THE YOUNG PEOPLE.
"OUR YOUNG PEOPLE ARE GROWING UP IN A CHANGING ENVIRONMENT. THEIR NEEDS HAVE CHANGED TOO," MR STRACHAN SAID.
HE ADDED THAT CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES HAD TO TAKE NOTE OF THESE SOCIAL CHARGES IF THEY WERE TO ADDRESS THE NEEDS OF THE YOUNGSTERS.
/HE SAID .......
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
3
HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD PROPOSE THESE CENTRES TO ADOPT AN OVERALL APPROACH IN ADDRESSING THE NEEDS AND PROBLEMS OF THE YOUTH POPULATION, BY TAKING AN OVERALL LOOK AT THEIR LIVING CONDITION.
CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES WOULD CONTINUE TO SERVE THOSE AGED BETWEEN SIX AND 24, WITH FLEXIBILITY TO SERVE THE "OLDER YOUTH", MR STRACHAN SAID, ADDING THAT SERVICES SHOULD ALSO BE EXTENDED TO PARENTS AND FAMILY MEMBERS.
HE SAID RESOURCES CURRENTLY DISPERSED IN DIFFERENT SERVICES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WOULD BE POOLED TOGETHER TO SET UP COMPREHENSIVE TEAMS.
"STAFF IN THE TEAM WILL BE DEPLOYED FLEXIBLY TO MEET PARTICULAR NEEDS AND PROBLEMS OF YOUNG PEOPLE, REACHING OUT TO SCHOOLS, STREET CORNERS, FAMILIES AND PLAYGROUNDS," HE EXPLAINED.
HE SAID CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRE SERVICES, OUTREACHING SOCIAL WORK AND SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK WERE THE CORE SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED BY THE COMPREHENSIVE TEAM.
"FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION SHOULD BE INCLUDED, WHEREVER POSSIBLE," HE ADDED.
AT PRESENT, THE NUMBER OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES IS ADEQUATE AND COMPARES VERY FAVOURABLY WITH OTHER MUCH-NEEDED SERVICES, INCLUDING ELDERLY RESIDENTIAL HOMES AND SERVICES FOR THE DISABLED, HE SAID.
"WITH A DECLINING YOUTH POPULATION, WE NEED TO ACHIEVE COST-EFFECTIVENESS IN SERVICE PROVISION. THE GOVERNMENT WANTS TO REPROVISION EXISTING CENTRES IN AREAS WHERE THERE IS OVER-PROVISION TO AREAS WHERE THERE IS A SHORTFALL, OR TO NEWLY DEVELOPED AND REDEVELOPED AREAS," MR STRACHAN SAID.
-----0------
ORAL HEALTH PROGRAMME LAUNCHED
* * » » *
A THREE-YEAR TERRITORY-WIDE ORAL HEALTH EDUCATION PROGRAMME FOR PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN -- THE FIRST OF ITS KIND EVER UNDERTAKEN IN HONG KONG -- HAS BEEN LAUNCHED, THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR S H LEE, ANNOUNCED TODAY (SATURDAY).
ALL CHILDREN AGED UNDER FIVE WILL BENEFIT FROM THE PROGRAMME WHICH WILL HELP THEM FORM DESIRABLE ORAL CARE HABITS, DR LEE SAID.
HE MADE THE ANNOUNCEMENT AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF A TWO-DAY CARNIVAL HELD TO MARK THE LAUNCHING OF THE PROGRAMME WHICH IS SPONSORED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB.
EXPLAINING THE NEED FOR SUCH A LARGE-SCALE EDUCATION PROGRAMME, DR LEE SAID: "STATISTICS HAVE SHOWN THAT THE MAIN PROBLEM FACING PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN IS DENTAL CARIES OR TOOTH DECAY."
/’’ABOUT 60..........
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
"ABOUT 60 PER CENT OF CHILDREN HAVE ESTABLISHED CARIES BY THE TIME THEY REACH PRIMARY 1.
"THOROUGH STUDY OF EXAMPLES WORLDWIDE HAS INDICATED THAT EDUCATION AMONG THE PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN WITH PARENT INVOLVEMENT IS A PROPER STRATEGY TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM.
THE PROGRAMME ENTITLED "BRIGHTER SMILES FOR THE NEW GENERATION" IS DESIGNED TO FULFIL SUCH OBJECTIVES WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF NON-DENTAL PROFESSIONALS AS ORAL HEALTH EDUCATORS.
UNDER THE PROGRAMME, TALKS WILL BE CONDUCTED IN ALL THE 46 MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CENTRES OF THE DEPARTMENT.
PARENTS WILL BE INDIVIDUALLY COUNSELLED BY NURSES ON DUTY. THEY WILL RECEIVE READING MATERIAL SHOWING HOW THEY CAN HELP THEIR CHILDREN FORM GOOD ORAL CARE HABITS AT A TENDER AGE.
"WHEN THE CHILDREN ARE IN KINDERGARTEN OR DAY NURSERIES, EACH OF THEM WILL RECEIVE FROM US A STORY BOOK ON ORAL HEALTH," DR LEE SAID.
"THE PARENTS WILL ALSO BENEFIT FROM THE BOOK.
"TEACHERS WILL USE TEACHING KITS TO TEACH THE PUPILS CORRECT CONCEPTS ON DENTAL CARE."
ALSO SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, DEAN OF THE FACULTY OF DENTISTRY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, PROFESSOR STEPHEN H Y WEI, SAID DENTAL DECAY AMONG ADULTS HAD DECLINED BY MORE THAN 60 PER CENT AS A RESULT OF THE INTRODUCTION OF WATER FLUORIDATION IN HONG KONG IN 1961 .
THE NUMBER OF DECAYED, MISSING AND FILLED TEETH IN AN AVERAGE ADULT IS NOW PROBABLY AMONG THE LOWEST IN THE WORLD, HE SAID.
"HOWEVER, WATER FLUORIDATION DOES NOT BENEFIT THE BABY TEETH IN PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN AS MUCH AS THE PERMANENT TEETH. MORE THAN HALF OF THE PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN IN HONG KONG ARE STILL AFFECTED BY DENTAL DECAY.
"IT IS THEREFORE MOST APPROPRIATE FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO DEVELOP A STRATEGY WHEREBY PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN, PARENTS, KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS AND CHILD CARE WORKERS ARE EDUCATED ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF ORAL HEALTH AND THE PRINCIPLES OF PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY,” PROFESSOR WEI SAID.
THE FUN-FILLED CARNIVAL BEGINS TODAY AND LASTS UNTIL TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE QUEENSWAY EXHIBITION HALL IN ADMIRALTY, CENTRAL.
IT IS OPEN FROM 10.30 AM TO 6 PM. ADMISSION IS FREE.
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/5 ........
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
5 -
LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS SALE BY AUCTION *****
FIFTY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WERE PUT UP FOR AUCTION THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING FOR A TOTAL OF $16,410,000 WHICH WILL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY PURPOSES, AFTER DEDUCTION OF EXPENSES INCURRED.
THE AUCTION, HELD AT THEATRE I, HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE, SAW THE REGISTRATION MARK 2 FETCH THE HIGHEST PRICE OF $9,500,000.
ANOTHER REGISTRATION MARK 44 WAS SOLD AT THE SECOND HIGHEST PRICE OF $860,000 WHILE THE LOWEST PRICE WAS $1,000 EACH FOR EY4898 AND FB951.
FOLLOWING ARE THE RESULTS OF TODAY ’S AUCTION:
FB1178 $ 14,000 FB718 $ 29,000 FA1288 $ 34,000 FB1318 $ 21,000
EY4898 1,000 ♦ AV88 410,000 XX68 310,000 ♦ 989 600,000
♦FG919 44,000 FB88&9 36,000 FB8882 32,000 ♦ HK19 400,000
FL125 17,000 ♦HK123 400,000 ♦ 136 440,000 ♦ 2 9, 500,000
FB2866 20,000 FB928 26,000 FA128 100,000 FB547 WITHDRAWN
*303 620,000 ♦ 899 440,000 ♦ 44 860,000 FB1913 3,000
AP7728 22,000 FB275 6,000 AS238 88,000 ♦CK1212 55,000
FB133 41,000 ♦ CL95 30,000 ♦ 3680 310,000 FB8896 7,000
♦FF838 170,000 FB405 4,000 FB738 29,000 FB951 1,000
FA356 9,000 ♦ HK99 550,000 ♦HK868 390,000 ♦ FF25 200,000
FB8885 4,000 EZ713 12,000 FB8863 10,000 ♦ FG54 43,000
FB1813 10,000 ER1223 8,000 FB3736 2,000 ♦FF345 35,000
FB8208 10,000 ♦SPECIAL FBI 136 VEHICLE 6,000 RGISTRATION MARK (NOT TRANSFERABLE)
SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS WERE REQUIRED TO PAY BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.
THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS 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 189TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973, BROUGHT THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF MONEY REALISED SO FAR TO $ 186,600,905.
SINCE THERE WAS NO BIDDER FOR FB547, THIS VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK WILL BE ASSIGNED TO THE ORIGINAL APPLICANT.
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/6 ........
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
6
"NO. 2" BRINGS $9.5 MILLION TO LOTTERIES FUND *****
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT HE WAS PLEASED THAT MORE PEOPLE WOULD BE ABLE TO BENEFIT FROM THE LOTTERIES FUND WITH THE PROCEEDS OF $9.5 MILLIOM FROM THE AUCTION OF THE "NO. 2" VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBER.
MR MACLEOD ANNOUNCED IN THE CHINESE NEW YEAR THAT HE WOULD MAKE AVAILABLE FOR AUCTION "NO. 2" — THE NUMBER ASSIGNED TO HIS OFFICE -- AS A NEW YEAR GESTURE TO BOOST THE LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY.
AS A FURTHER PERSONAL GESTURE, HE WILL BE PRESENTING A SET OF NEW PROOF HONG KONG COINS AS A SMALL GIFT TO THE NEW OWNER OF THE LICENCE NUMBER.
THE REGISTRATION MARK "FS" WILL NOW BE USED BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S OFFICIAL CAR.
-----0------
HARBOUR SPEED LIMITS WILL BE EXAMINED ******
THE MARINE DEPARTMENT WILL RE-EXAMINE HARBOUR SPEED LIMITS, ESPECIALLY FOR THOSE VESSELS WHICH CREATE A LARGE WASH, IN VIEW OF THE WORSENING WASH PROBLEM AND INCREASED TRAFFIC, THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR ALLAN PYRKE, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
MR PYRKE WAS ADDRESSING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE CLUB MARINA COVE’S HONG KONG BOAT SHOW 1993 IN SAI KUNG.
MR PYRKE SAID: "HIGH SPEED IN ITSELF DOES NOT NECESSARILY GENERATE A LARGE WASH, IT IS THE SIZE AND TYPE OF HULL FORM AND POWER WHICH HAS A LARGE EFFECT.
"PEOPLE OPERATING LARGE AND FAST PLEASURE CRAFT WHICH CREATE A WASH PROBLEM SHOULD APPRECIATE THAT IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO ENFORCE THE HARBOUR SPEED LIMITS ALTHOUGH WE ARE EXPERIMENTING WITH THE USE OF HAND-HELD RADAR GUNS TO GET SPEED CHECKS."
THE SPEED LIMIT IN THE CENTRAL HARBOUR AREA IS 10 KNOTS FOR VESSELS OF 60 METRES OR LESS IN LENGTH.
MR PYRKE SAID IF A SOLUTION COULD NOT BE FOUND, THEN THE OTHER ALTERNATIVE WOULD BE TO BAN PLEASURE CRAFT FROM THE CENTRAL HARBOUR AREA IF VESSELS CONTINUED TO IGNORE THE SPEED LIMITS.
/INCREASES IN .......
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
INCREASES IN CONTAINER THROUGHPUT AND TRAFFIC IN THE PORT OF HONG KONG OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
t NO. OF CONTAINERS HANDLED (TEUS) 1982 1992 1.5 MILLION 8 MILLION
♦ NO. OF OCEAN-GOING SHIPS 1 ENTERED 1982 1992 22,000 29,000
♦ NO. OF INTERNATIONAL PASSENGERS HANDLED 1982 1992 8 MILLION 20 MILLION
* NO. OF RIVER TRADE CRAFT ENTERED 1982 1992 116,000 120,300
THIS MEANT THAT THERE WOULD BE LESS ROOM FOR PLEASURE CRAFT IN THESE AREAS ALTHOUGH THE SAI KUNG AREA WOULD NOT BE AFFECTED.
MR PYRKE SAID A NEW EXAMINATION WOULD BE BROUGHT INTO EFFECT BY THE MIDDLE OF THIS YEAR.
"THIS WOULD ALLOW PERSONS OPERATING CRAFT UP TO EIGHT METRES IN LENGTH TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE THROUGH THE HONG KONG YACHTING ASSOCIATION’S SCHEME WITHOUT UNDERGOING A MARINE DEPARTMENT EXAMINATION," HE SAID.
"THE NEXT GRADE OF EXAMINATION OF UP TO 15 METRES CAN BE OBTAINED BY EITHER A MARINE DEPARTMENT OR HONG KONG YACHTING ASSOCIATION EXAMINATION.
"THE EXAMINATION FOR OVER 15 METRES, WHICH IS A PRACTICAL TEST, WILL BE CONDUCTED BY THE HONG KONG YACHTING ASSOCIATION."
ALL PLEASURE VESSELS EXAMINATIONS AND CERTIFICATES WILL BE COMBINED AND THAT THERE WILL BE NO SEPARATE MASTER AND ENGINEER GRADES.
"I BELIEVE THE NEW EXAMINATION, CONDUCTED BY BOATERS THEMSELVES, WILL GIVE A NEW AND MORE PRACTICAL SLANT TO PROVIDING COMPETENCY AND WILL HELP WEED OUT THOSE PEOPLE WHO ONLY PASS THE EXAMINATION THROUGH READING A BOOK AND WHO HAVE NO REAL EXPERIENCE," MR PYRKE ADDED.
"THIS SHOULD MAKE THE WATERS SAFER AND, I HOPE, MORE USER-FRIENDLY FOR ALL OF US WHO WANT TO RELAX AFLOAT."
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Z8.........
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
8
APPEAL FOR VOLUNTEERS TO HELP PROBATIONERS
* * * * *
THE ACTING ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS LESLIE HUNG, TODAY (SATURDAY) APPEALED TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO PARTICIPATE IN THE VOLUNTEERS SCHEME FOR PROBATIONERS (VSP).
SPEAKING AT THE CERTIFICATE PRESENTATION CEREMONY OF THE VSP, MRS HUNG SAID THE SCHEME WAS A COMPLEMENTARY SERVICE TO PROMOTE AWARENESS AND PARTICIPATION OF THE PUBLIC IN HELPING OFFENDERS.
"OVER 400 VOLUNTEERS HAD PARTICIPATED IN THE SCHEME SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 1976. SUCH A FIGURE, THOUGH NOT VERY GREAT AS IT MIGHT SOUND, REPRESENTED A SOLID SUPPORT FROM THE COMMUNITY,” MRS HUNG SAID.
"IN ORDER TO GET MORE INTERESTED MEMBERS IN THE COMMUNITY TO JOIN HANDS WITH US IN OUR WORK, THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE SCHEME HAS SINCE LAST YEAR BEEN READY TO RECRUIT SUITABLE AND INTERESTED PEOPLE INTO THE SCHEME AT ANY TIME OF THE YEAR APART FROM THE ANNUAL RECRUITMENT EXERCISE," SHE SAID.
ALSO SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY, A HIGH COURT JUDGE, MR JUSTICE MICHAEL WONG, SAID ACCEPTANCE AND SUPPORT BY THE PUBLIC TO OFFENDERS WERE CERTAINLY NEEDED TO SUCCESSFULLY PROMOTE THE CONCEPT OF COMMUNITY-BASED TREATMENT FOR REHABILITATION OF OFFENDERS.
"THE COMMUNITY SERVICE ORDERS SCHEME, A COMPARATIVELY NEW SERVICE PROVIDED BY SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, IS A COMMUNITY-BASED TREATMENT OPTION FOR OFFENDERS," HE SAID.
UNDER THIS SCHEME, THE COURTS MAY ORDER AN OFFENDER OF 14 YEARS OF AGE OR ABOVE WHO IS CONVICTED OF AN OFFENCE PUNISHABLE BY IMPRISONMENT, TO PERFORM A CERTAIN NUMBER OF HOURS OF COMMUNITY WORK.
"BY DOING UNPAID WORK, AN OFFENDER IS GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO RIGHT A WRONG TO THE COMMUNITY TO WHICH HE HAD CAUSED DAMAGED TO AND TO EFFECT A CHANGE IN HIS ATTITUDE TOWARDS SOCIETY AND LIFE THROUGH CONTACTS WITH OTHER DISADVANTAGED PERSONS IN SOCIETY,” HE SAID.
MR JUSTICE WONG AND MRS HUNG PRESENTED CERTIFICATES TO 48 VOLUNTEERS IN APPRECIATION OF THEIR DEDICATED SERVICE IN THE REHABILITATION OF OFFENDERS.
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/9.........
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
- 9
CARNIVAL TO SPREAD KEEP-CLEA^ MESSAGE ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
A CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE FORBES STREET PLAYGROUND, KENNEDY TOWN, TO PROMOTE THE IMPORTANCE OF KEEPING HONG KONG CLEAN.
THERE WILL BE SINGING PERFORMANCE, ACROBATIC AND MAGIC SHOWS AS WELL AS A VARIETY OF STALL GAMES.
THE CARNIVAL WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM. ADMISSION IS FREE AND ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND.
THE ACTIVITY IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD AND THE URBAN COUNCIL WITH HELP FROM THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS MR CHAN CHOI-HI AND MR IP KWOK-HIM; AND URBAN COUNCILLORS MR CHAN TAK-CHOR AND MR WONG SHUI-LAI.
THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT (HONG KONG), MR C S CHAN, AND THE ASSISTANT CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MISS MARY TSANG, WILL ALSO BE PRESENT.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT.
-----0-------
DISTRICT HISTORY BOOKLET IN THE MAKE
*****
THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD IS COLLECTING INFORMATION ON THE HISTORY OF THE DISTRICT FOR THE PUBLICATION OF A BOOKLET.
A WORKING GROUP IS FORMED UNDER THE DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE TO UNDERTAKE THE PRODUCTION, WHICH IS SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION EARLY NEXT YEAR.
THE BOOKLET AIMS TO PROVIDE INFORMATION ON RELICS, MONUMENTS AND STORIES RELATING TO THE DISTRICT AND THE CHANGES INVOLVED WITH A VIEW TO PROMOTING A SENSE OF BELONGING AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT AMONG LOCAL RESIDENTS.
SOURCES OF INFORMATION INCLUDE THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE AND RELEVANT LOCAL ORGANISATIONS.
/ANYONE OR ........
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
10
ANYONE OR ANY INSTITUTIONS WITH WRITTEN ACCOUNTS OR PICTURES USEFUL FOR THE PURPOSE ARE WELCOME TO CONTRIBUTE.
ALL THE INFORMATION ARE REQUESTED TO BE SENT TO THE DISTRICT BOARD, 11TH FLOOR, EASTERN LAW COURTS BUILDING, 29 TAI ON STREET, SAI WAN HO, BEFORE MARCH 14.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 886 6511.
-----0 ----
FIRING PRACTICE IN MARCH
*****
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE HA TSUEN-CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON 24 DAYS NEXT MONTH.
THE PUBLIC IS WARNED NOT TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN RED FLAGS ARE HOISTED.
FOLLOWING ARE THE DATES AND TIMES THAT FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE:
DATE TIME
MARCH MARCH 1 2 (MONDAY) (TUESDAY) 8.30 8.30 AM AM — 5 5 PM PM
MARCH 3 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM — — 11 .59 PM
MARCH 4 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 5 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 6 (SATURDAY) 8.30 AM — — 5 PM
MARCH 8 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 9 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 10 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 11 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 12 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 15 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 16 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM — — 5 PM
MARCH 17 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM — 11 PM
MARCH 18 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM — — 11 PM
MARCH 19 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 22 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 23 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM — 11 .59 PM
MARCH 24 (WEDNESDAY) 0.01 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 25 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM — — 5 PM
MARCH 26 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM — — 5 PM
MARCH 29 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 30 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM — 5 PM
MARCH 31 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM — — 5 PM
/U .....
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1993
- 11 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
*****
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
FUND
$ MILLION
1,930
+ 220
2,150
NIL
-645
1 ,505
0
Mjaily information bulletin
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
EMPHASIS ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMMES ......................... 1
ATTESTATION OF CONTRACTS NOT REQUIRED ........................ 2
YOUTH GROUPS NEEDED TO PROMOTE AIDS EDUCATION ................ 3
COURSES AND SEMINARS FOR PRINCIPALS AND TEACHERS ............. 4
PLACES AVAILABLE AT GOVT PRIMARY SCHOOLS ..................... 5
49 NEW BUILDING PI,ANS APPROVED TN DECEMBER 1992 ............. 5
GOVERNMENT HOUSE GARDENS OPEN TO PUBLIC ...................... 6
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1993
1
EMPHASIS ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMMES
*****
THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID 1993/94 WOULD BE ANOTHER PRODUCTIVE YEAR FOR THE GOVERNMENT IN MEETING ITS COMMITMENTS TO PROVIDE A BETTER ENVIRONMENT IN HONG KONG.
IT WOULD ALSO SEE A NEW EFFORT LAUNCHED TO HELP PEOPLE IN THE SANDWICH CLASS OBTAIN FLATS AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE.
ON THE SEWAGE STRATEGY, MR EASON SAID DETAILED DESIGN WOULD START ON STAGE I AND CONSTRUCTION WORKS WILL PROCEED IN MANY OF THE SEWERAGE MASTER PLAN AREAS THAT ARE PART OF THE HIGH PRIORITY PROGRAMME AIMED AT IMPROVING WATER QUALITY IN VICTORIA HARBOUR.
’’THIS IS ON TOP OF OTHER ON-GOING SEWERAGE WORKS WHICH CURRENTLY INCLUDE SCHEMES FOR TOLO HARBOUR, PORT SHELTER, AND SOUTH OF HONG KONG ISLAND.
AS PART OF THE PROGRAMME TO STRENGTHEN CONTROL ON WATER POLLUTION, TWO MORE WATER CONTROL ZONES WILL BE DECLARED THIS YEAR, AT THE EASTERN AND WESTERN ENDS OF THE HARBOUR AND TWO SUPPLEMENTARY ZONES IN THE SOUTHERN AND TOLO HARBOUR CONTROL ZONES.
MR EASON POINTED OUT THAT MUCH OF THE INCREASE IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT’S BUDGET WOULD BE DEVOTED TO IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE OF WASTE MANAGEMENT SERVICES IN THE TERRITORY AND EXTENDING THESE SERVICES TO COPE WITH THE INCREASING AMOUNT OF WASTE THAT THE COMMUNITY WAS GENERATING AND DIFFERENT TYPES OF WASTE.
THIS PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE THE COMMISSIONING OF THE CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT CENTRE IN APRIL WHICH WILL ENABLE THE CRADLE TO GRAVE SCHEME TO BE INTRODUCED.
”WE PLAN TO START CONSTRUCTING ALSO THE FIRST TWO OF THE THREE STRATEGIC LANDFILLS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
’’THIS WILL MATCH A NETWORK OF REFUSE TRANSFER STATIONS, TWO OF WHICH ARE ALREADY OPERATING, TO TAKE CARE OF HONG KONG’S LONG-TERM NEED FOR SOLTI) WASTE DISPOSAL FAC I L I T I ES , ” HE SAID.
WHILE ENVIRONMENTAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS WILL ACCOUNT FOR A LARGE SLICE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL BUDGET, OTHER ASPECTS OF POLLUTION ARE EXPECTED TO RECEIVE INCREASED ATTENTION IN THE COM I NG YEAR.
FOR EXAMPLE, CONTROLS ON ASBESTOS IN BUILDINGS WILL BE INTRODUCED AND THE EXEMPTION CURRENTLY ENJOYED BY CERTAIN INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES UNDER THE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL AMENDMENT ORDINANCE WILL BE REMOVED.
THIS WILL MEAN THAT A NUMBER OF EXISTING CEMENT PLANTS, ROCK CRUSHING MILLS AND THE TSI NG Y1 POWER STATION WILL COME UNDER THE CONTROL OF THE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL AMENDMENT ORDINANCE.
ALSO, NOISE CONTROLS WILL BE STEPPED UP WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION TO CONTROL CONSTRUCT I ON NOISE AND ROAD VEHICLE NOISE.
/MR EASON ........
2
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1993
MR EASON SAID: "WE AI,SO PLAN TO DESIGNATE TWO MARINE PARKS AT YAN CHAU TONG NEAR KAT O AND HOI HA WAN IN SA] KUNG EOR CONSERVATION AND RECREATION PURPOSES AND A MARINE RESERVE AT CAPE D’AGUILAR’ FOR SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH.
PROVISIONS HAVE ALSO BEEN INCLUDED IN THE DRAFT ESTIMATES OF EXPENDITURE TO ESTABLISH A HYDROGRAPHIC OFFICE TO SURVEY HONG KONG WATERS.
THIS WILL MAKE HONG KONG SELF-SUFFICIENT IN THE COLLECTION OF HYDROGRAPHIC AND HYDRODYNAMIC INFORMATION AND THE PRODUCTION AND UPDATING OF NAVIGATIONAL CHARTS AND NAUTICAL PUBLICATIONS WITHIN A FEW YEARS.
MR EASON SAID: ’’THE ADDITIONAL RESOURCES BEING PROVIDED ACROSS-THE-BOARD IN THE PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS GROUP OF DEPARTMENTS WILL ENABLE US TO MEET THE INCREASING DEMANDS FOR OUR SERVICES, ESPECIALLY IN THE ENVIRONMENTAL FIELD.”
ON SANDWICH CLASS HOUSING, HE SAID: "WE ARE WORKING CLOSELY WITH THE HOUSING SOCIETY TO DRAW UP DETAILS OF THE ’FAST START’ SCHEME AND IT REMAINS OUR INTENTION THAT THE FIRST SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS WILL MOVE INTO THEIR NEW FLATS BY AUGUST."
-----0------
ATTESTATION OF CONTRACTS NOT REQUIRED
EMPLOYERS ARE REMINDED THAT THE REQUIREMENT FOR A FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPER CONTRACT TO BE ATTESTED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT BEFORE SUBMISSION TO THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT IN SUPPORT OF THE HELPER’S APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT VISA WILL BE REMOVED TOMORROW (MONDAY).
"THE CHANGE IS AIMED AT SIMPLIFYING PROCEDURE AND REDUCING ADMINISTRATIVE COST," A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
HE ADDED THAT CONTRACTS OF OTHER CATEGORIES OF FOREIGN WORKERS RECRUITED UNDER THE IMPORTATION OF LABOUR SCHEME DID NOT REQUIRE ATTESTATION BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
"ABOLITION OF THIS REQUIREMENT WILL SHORTEN THE PROCESSING TIME AND SAVE FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS AND THEIR EMPLOYERS SEVERAL TRIPS BETWEEN GOVERNMENT OFFICES AND CONSULATES," HE SAID.
HE STRESSED THAT THE CHANGE WOULD NOT AFFECT THE RIGHTS OF FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS.
"LIKE ALL OTHER FOREIGN WORKERS IN HONG KONG, THEY ENJOY THE SAME PROTECTION UNDER THE LABOUR LAWS AS LOCAL EMPLOYEES," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS SERVICE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL CONTINUE TO PROVIDE CONSULTATION AND CONCILIATION SERVICE TO THE HELPERS AND THEIR EMPLOYERS," HE SAID.
/THE SPOKESMAN .......
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1993
3
THE SPOKESMAN SAID NEW STANDARD CONTRACT FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT INFORMATION OFFICE AT IMMIGRATION TOWER, 7 GLOUCESTER ROAD, HONG KONG.
"BEFORE SUBMITTING A CONTRACT TO THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT FOR VISA APPLICATION, EMPLOYERS SHOULD CONSULT THE RELEVANT CONSULATES FOR ANY NECESSARY REQUIREMENTS OR FORMALITIES TO BE COMPLETED,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT STARTING FROM TOMORROW (MONDAY), THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT WOULD ONLY ACCEPT CONTRACTS MADE IN THE NEW FORM OR THOSE OLD CONTRACTS WHICH HAD ALREADY BEEN ATTESTED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
-----0-------
YOUTH GROUPS NEEDED TO PROMOTE AIDS EDUCATION
*****
TO PROMOTE AIDS EDUCATION AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE, THE HELP OF YOUTH GROUPS IS NEEDED, THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR MARGARET CHAN, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
DR CHAN SAID THE CREATIVITY OF YOUTH MUST BE MADE USE OF TO DESIGN EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES SUITABLE FOR THEIR PEERS.
SHE WAS SPEAKING AT AN AWARD-PRESENTATION CEREMONY OF A YOUTH AIDS EDUCATION PROJECT COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY ON AIDS (CEPAIDS).
SHE SAID IT WAS OUTDATED TO LAUNCH AN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMME UNDER ONE SINGLE AUTHORITY.
"IT IS NO LONGER APPROPRIATE TO LAUNCH AN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMME BY ONE SINGLE ORGANISATION, ONE COMMITTEE OR ONE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT," SHE SAID.
A TOTAL OF 12 YOUTH GROUPS JOINED THE COMPETITION. THEIR PROJECTS WERE PRESENTED AT A CAY-CAMP HELD AT THE SAI KUNG RECREATION CENTRE TODAY.
THE WINNERS OF THE THREE "OUTSTANDING PROJECT AWARDS" ARE THE NGAU TAU KOK CARITAS COMMUNITY CENTRE, THE FRIENDS OF THE SCOUTING OF CHEUNG ON CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRE AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT’S KWUN TONG HOSTEL CONNECTION GROUP.
THE AWARD COMPRISES A TROPHY AND A CASH PRIZE OF $2,000.
DR CHAN SAID THE PROJECTS WERE MOST INNOVATIVE AND PROFESSIONALLY DONE.
NOT ONLY ARE THESE PROJECTS ENTERTAINING, THEY ALSO HELP SPREAD ANTI-AIDS MESSAGES.
"THIS IS EXACTLY THE OBJECTIVE OF CEPAIDS - WHICH IS, TO MAKE USE OF THE STRENGTH OF VARIOUS COMMUNITIES IN THE SOCIETY TO ACHIEVE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES," SHE SAID.
/ALSO SPEAKING .......
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1993
4
ALSO SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY WAS THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ROSE GOODSTADT. SHE SAID MANY PEOPLE REJECTED AIDS PATIENTS FOR FEAR OF BEING INFECTED.
"IT IS THE DUTY OF EVERYONE OF US TO HELP PEOPLE SUFFERING FROM DISEASES AND PAIN. WITH THE RIGHT PRECAUTION, IT IS ABSOLUTELY SAFE FOR US TO CONTACT THESE PATIENTS AND TO HELP THEM IN THEIR DAILY LIVES," SHE SAID.
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COURSES AND SEMINARS FOR PRINCIPALS AND TEACHERS
* * * * t
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT LAST MONTH (JANUARY) SERIES OF SEMINARS, COURSES AND WORKSHOPS FOR SECONDARY, KINDERGARTEN SCHOOL HEADS AND TEACHERS.
CONDUCTED A
PRIMARY AND
A TOTAL OF 10 SEMINARS, NINE IN-SERVICE TRAINING AND REFRESHER COURSES AND A WORKSHOP WERE HELD.
OF THE SEMINARS, FOR PRIMARY AND ONE FOR
SIX WERE FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS, KINDERGARTEN.
THREE
TOPICS DISCUSSED AT THE SEMINARS INCLUDED THE TEACHING OF TYPEWRITING (ELECTRONIC), POST-SECONDARY 3 CRAFT COURSES, THE TEACHING OF SIXTH FORM PRINCIPLES OF ACCOUNTS, THE TEACHING OF LOCAL SOCIAL ISSUES, A-LEVEL GEOGRAPHY TEACHING, AND THE USE OF SOURCES IN HISTORY TEACHING AT SIXTH FORM.
ALSO INCLUDED WERE THE WAY TO INTRODUCE CHILDREN LITERATURE TO PRIMARY PUPILS, THE ROLE OF THE PRIMARY SOCIAL STUDIES PANEL CONVENERS, CREATIVE MUSIC MAKING IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS AND MUSIC ACTIVITIES FOR KINDERGARTEN HEADS AND TEACHERS.
COURSES INCLUDED IN-SERVICE TRAINING AND REFRESHER COURSES FOR TEACHER LIBRARIANS, A REFRESHER COURSE ON THE TEACHING OF SIMPLE SURVEYING FOR MATHEMATICS TEACHERS OF PRIMARY SIX, FOUR COURSES FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS ON SIMPLE VIDEO PRODUCTION TECHNIQUES, AND THE PROJECT APPROACH IN THE TEACHING OF I) & T (PART II), SHELL & C PROGRAMMING TN UNIX.
ALSO INCLUDED WERE THE DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTER ASSISTED LEARNING PACKAGES, AND TWO COURSES FOR PRIMARY SCHOOLS TEACHERS ON THE INTRODUCTION TO MICROCOMPUTERS AND DISK OPERATING SYSTEM.
THE WORKSHOP HELD LAST MONTH WAS ON WARDROBE PLANNING FOR HOME ECONOMICS TEACHERS FROM GOVERNMENT AND AIDED SCHOOLS.
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/5 .........
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1993
5
PLACES AVAILABLE AT GOVT PRIMARY SCHOOLS
******
PARENTS WISHING TO FIND PRIMARY 2 TO 6 PLACES FOR THEIR CHILDREN IN THE 1993 SCHOOL YEAR WILL BE ABLE TO DO SO AT VARIOUS GOVERNMENT PRIMARY SCHOOLS.
AN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) CHILDREN AGED SIX AND EIGHT MONTHS OR MORE ON SEPTEMBER 1 THIS YEAR COULD APPLY FOR ADMISSION.
VACANCIES WILL BE DISPLAYED AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE OF THESE SCHOOLS AND APPLICATION FORMS WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM MARCH 2 (TUESDAY) TO MARCH 10 (WEDNESDAY) DURING WORKING HOURS.
THE SPOKESMAN ADVISED PARENTS TO RETURN THE COMPLETED FORMS TO THE SCHOOL OF THEIR CHOICE ON MARCH 10.
SELECTION OF APPLICANTS WILL BE MADE ON MARCH 16.
49 NEW BUILDING PLANS APPROVED IN DECEMBER 1992 * * * » ♦
THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE (BOO) OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT APPROVED 49 NEW BUILDING PLANS IN DECEMBER LAST YEAR.
OF THESE, 20 WERE FOR HONG KONG, 17 FOR KOWLOON AND 12 FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE APPROVED PLANS INCLUDED 22 FOR APARTMENT, APARTMENT/COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS, 10 FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS AND FOUR FOR FACTORY AND INDUSTRIAL PURPOSES.
DURING THE MONTH, THE OFFICE GAVE CONSENT FOR WORK TO START ON 44 PROJECTS, INVOLVING 100,065 SQUARE METRES OF USABLE DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA AND 147,556 SQUARE METRES OF USABLE NON-DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA.
THE TOTAL DECLARED COST OF NEW BUILDINGS COMPLETED DURING THE MONTH WAS ABOUT $2,994 MILLION.
USABLE FLOOR AREAS QF THESE BUILDINGS FOR DOMESTIC AND NON-DOMESTIC USES WERE ABOUT 81,519 SQUARE METRES AND ABOUT 342,637 SQUARE METRES RESPECTIVELY.
IN THE MONTH, THE OFFICE ISSUED 44 OCCUPATION PERMITS - 17 FOR HONG KONG ISLAND, SIX FOR KOWLOON, AND 21 FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES.
IN ADDITION, 41 DEMOLITION CONSENTS INVOLVING 71 BUILDINGS WERE
ISSUED.
/THE OFFICE’S
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1993
6
THE OFFICE’S CONTROL AND ENFORCEMENT DIVISION RECEIVED 475 COMPLAINTS OF UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS, CARRIED OUT 1,371 INSPECTIONS AND ISSUED 271 REMOVAL ORDERS IN RESPECT OF UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS.
THE DANGEROUS BUILDINGS SECTION OF BOO INSPECTED 649 BUILDINGS AND OBTAINED FOUR EMERGENCY CLOSURE ORDERS.
---------0------------
GOVERNMENT HOUSE GARDENS OPEN TO PUBLIC
*****
THE GARDENS OF GOVERNMENT HOUSE WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ON MARCH 7 (SUNDAY) FROM 10 AM TO 5 PM TO ENABLE RESIDENTS TO ENJOY THE AZALEAS IN BLOOM.
APART FROM THE GARDENS, CERTAIN ROOMS INSIDE THE HOUSE WILL ALSO BE OPEN FOR THE PUBLIC TO SEE BUT NO PHOTOGRAPHY WILL BE ALLOWED. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC SHOULD NOT ENTER OTHER PARTS OF THE HOUSE.
PEOPLE WISHING TO VISIT GOVERNMENT HOUSE ARE REQUESTED TO ENTER BY THE EAST GATE AND LEAVE BY THE MAIN OR WEST GATES SO THAT ALL CAN ENJOY THE FLOWERS WITHOUT CAUSING INCONVENIENCE TO OTHERS.
PEOPLE TRAVELLING BY TAXI OR PRIVATE CARS ARE REQUESTED NOT TO ALIGHT IN FRONT OF THE MAIN GATE AT UPPER ALBERT ROAD.
SCOUTS, ROAD SAFETY PATROL MEMBERS, ST JOHN AMBULANCE STAFF AND POLICEMEN WILL BE PRESENT. VISITORS ARE ASKED TO CO-OPERATE WITH THEM TO AVOID OVERCROWDING.
0