Received by PRO
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO,
CABINET MEETING DISCUSSES POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT ................. 1
TOY SAFETY APPEAL BOARD PANEL APPOINTED ......................... 2
AMENDMENTS TO LIFTING APPLIANCES REGULATION ENDORSED ............ 4
REDUCTION IN AD VALOREM LEVY ON IMPORTS PROPOSED ................ 5
MOBILE OIL TSING YI COMPLEX DECLARED OPEN ....................... 6
RULE OF LAW AND HUMAN RIGHTS GIVEN PRIORITY THEMES .............. 6
PUTTING ACROSS MACHINE SAFETY MESSAGE ........................... 8
HK DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL FOR NEW YORK CITY ....................... 9
50 CAR MARKS UP FOR AUCTION .................................... 10
TEMPORARY VENUE FOR CAR REGISTRATION MARKS AUCTION ............. 11
MEN FINED FOR ILLEGAL MEAT IMPORT .............................. 11
EMPLOYERS REMINDED TO CHECK RECRUITS' IDENTITY ................. 12
BEACH WATER GRADES ............................................. 12
MUSIC CAMP FOR YOUTH ........................................... 16
FIREMEN PRAISED FOR RESCUE WORK ................................ 17
NORTH SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMMES BEGIN ON SATURDAY ................ 18
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPFRATTONS .. 18
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
CABINET MEETING DISCUSSES POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT
*****
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, WILL BE PUTTING RECOMMENDATIONS, WITH THE BRITISH AMBASSADOR TO CHINA, SIR ROBIN MCLAREN, AT A CABINET COMMITTEE MEETING TODAY (THURSDAY) ABOUT HOW THEY SEE THE WAY FORWARD IN THE TALKS ON THE POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER MEETING FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE OFFICIALS IN LONDON YESTERDAY, THE GOVERNOR SAID: "WE WILL BE ENSURING THAT THE INTERESTS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG REMAIN PARAMOUNT THROUGHOUT THESE NEGOTIATIONS SO FAR AS OUR OWN STRATEGY ON THE BRITISH AND THE HONG KONG SIDE IS CONCERNED."
"WE ARE NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, GOING TO CONNIVE AT RIGGED ELECTIONS, AND WE WILL NOT FRUSTRATE THE DESIRE OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG FOR A GREATER SAY IN RUNNING THEIR OWN AFFAIRS, WHICH I THINK IS WHOLLY LEGITIMATE."
NOTING THAT THE BRITISH SIDE WERE NEGOTIATING IN GOOD FAITH, THE GOVERNOR SAID THEY WANTED TO SEE A SETTLEMENT AND A SETTLEMENT IN GOOD TIME TO ARRANGE FOR THE 1994 AND 1995 ELECTIONS.
"WE WILL NOT JETTISON OUR PRINCIPLES IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE A SETTLEMENT," HE ADDED.
"WE WANT ELECTION ARRANGEMENTS FOR 1994 AND 1995 WHICH ARE FAIR AND OPEN AND ACCEPTABLE TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG AND WE WANT OBJECTIVE CRITERIA FOR THE SO-CALLED ’THROUGH TRAIN’ SO FAR AS LEGISLATORS ARE CONCERNED."
ASKED TO ELABORATE ON THE CRITERIA, THE GOVERNOR SAID: "I DO NOT THINK THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE ABLE TO UNDERSTAND IF CANDIDATES IN THE 1995 ELECTIONS WERE GOING AROUND CANVASSING UNABLE TO TELL PEOPLE WHETHER THEY WERE LIKELY TO BE ABLE TO TRAVEL THROUGH 1997 TO 1999, UNABLE TO SAY WHETHER THEY WERE GOING TO BE TWO-YEAR LEGISLATORS OR FOUR-YEAR LEGISLATORS.
"THAT DOES NOT MEAN THAT I THINK THAT EVERY LEGISLATOR IN 1995 HAS TO HAVE AN ABSOLUTE GUARANTEE THAT WITHOUT ANY OTHER CONSIDERATIONS COMING INTO PLAY, THEY CAN TRAVEL THROUGH TO 1999. BUT IT MEANS THAT LEGISLATORS MUST HAVE THE SAME SORT OF CLEAR AND OBJECTIVE CRITERIA TO TRAVEL THROUGH THAT THEY HAVE AT THE MOMENT.
"IF YOU ARE A CANDIDATE TODAY, YOU HAVE TO MEET CERTAIN QUALIFICATIONS TO BE A CANDIDATE. IF YOU BECOME A LEGISLATOR, YOU HAVE TO TAKE AN OATH, EITHER THE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE OR THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OATH.
"THERE ARE SIMILAR PROVISIONS IN THE BASIC LAW FOR LEGISLATORS, FOR THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE, IN ORDER TO TAKE OATHS IN ORDER TO QUALIFY FOR OFFICE. THAT IS, AS IT WERE, A ’JUSTICIABLE’ CRITERIA.
/•'IT IS ..........
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
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"IT IS NOT A QUESTION OF ASKING A GROUP OF PEOPLE AT SOME STAGE AFTER THE ELECTIONS WHETHER THEY THINK THAT AN INDIVIDUAL LEGISLATOR HAS THE RIGHT ATTITUDE IN THE PAST TO MATTERS WHICH MAY CONCERN THEM IN THE FUTURE. THAT IS NOT OBJECTIVE, IT IS SUBJECTIVE."
ASKED WHAT HE WOULD SAY TO THE PRIME MINISTER TODAY, THE GOVERNOR SAID HE WOULD MENTION THAT THE LAST YEAR HAD ECONOMICALLY AND SOCIALLY BEEN A VERY SUCCESSFUL ONE FOR HONG KONG.
"I WILL ALSO BE SAYING THAT I VERY MUCH HOPE THAT EVEN THOUGH WE HAVE NOT MANAGED TO MAKE THE PROGRESS ON POLITICAL MATTERS IN THE LAST YEAR, THAT WE WILL BE ABLE TO DO SO IN THE FUTURE, AND THAT WE WILL BE ABLE TO HAVE A BETTER RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA IN THE FUTURE, A RELATIONSHIP BASED ON MUTUAL RESPECT AND MUTUAL TRUST."
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TOY SAFETY APPEAL BOARD PANEL APPOINTED ♦ * * ♦ *
THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY HAS APPOINTED AN APPEAL BOARD PANEL UNDER THE TOYS AND CHILDREN’S PRODUCT SAFETY ORDINANCE.
THE PANEL WILL HEAR APPEALS AGAINST AN ENFORCEMENT DECISION OR ACTION OF THE COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS AND EXCISE UNDER PART VI OF THE ORDINANCE, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
IT ALSO HEARS APPEALS AGAINST NOTICES ISSUED BY" THE COMMISSIONER TO REQUIRE TOYS AND CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS SUPPLIERS TO IMPROVE THE SAFETY OF THEIR PRODUCTS, TO STOP SUPPLYING UNSAFE PRODUCTS OR TO RECALL UNSAFE PRODUCTS FROM THE MARKET.
"THE APPEAL BOARD PANEL COMPRISES A CHAIRMAN AND A DEPUTY CHAIRMAN, BOTH OF WHOM ARE LEGAL PRACTITIONERS, AND NOT MORE THAN 15 MEMBERS FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC, TOYS AND CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS INDUSTRY, AND PRODUCT TESTING PROFESSION," HE SAID.
MEMBERS OF THE PANEL ARE APPOINTED FOR A PERIOD OF TWO YEARS WITH EFFECT FROM TODAY WHEN THE ORDINANCE COMES INTO EFFECT.
MEMBERS APPOINTED TO THE APPEAL BOARD PANEL ARE:
CHAIRMAN
MR ANDREW LIAO CHEUNG-SING, QC, MEMBER OF THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION OF HONG KONG
DEPUTY CHAIRMAN
MR WILLIAM TSUI HING-CHUEN, SOLICITOR, COUNCIL MEMBER OF THE LAW SOCIETY OF HONG KONG
/MEMBERS .......
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
- 3
MEMBERS
DR DAVID LLOYD CRONE, SENIOR RACING CHEMIST OF ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB, CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON APPLIED BIOLOGY AND CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY
MR ANDREW TANG, DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER OF INCHCAPE TESTING SERVICES HK LTD, HOKLAS APPROVED SIGNATORY IN TOYS TESTING
MISS MABEL C K LI, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF WASSERBEL TESTING LAB, TECHNOLOGIST OF TOY TESTING FROM HOKLAS ACCREDITED LABORATORY
DR HO SIU-LAU, SENIOR LECTURER OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT OF HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC, HOKLAS ASSESSOR
MR LAU SIU-HUNG, DIRECTOR OF UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG ELECTRONIC SERVICES UNIT, HOKLAS ASSESSOR
MR ARTHUR CHAN MAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF UNIMAX TOYS LTD, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER OF HONG KONG TOYS COUNCIL
MR JEFFREY LAM KIN-FUNG, DIRECTOR OF ALICE DOLL FASHIONS LTD, MEMBER OF INDUSTRY AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
MR GEOFF STAMMERS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF MANNINGS RETAIL LTD, MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF RETAIL MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION
MR THOMAS H L SHEK, GENERAL MANAGER OF TOYS "R" US
MRS CHOW WONG MABEL, PROPRIETOR OF ELEGANT PRINTERS, FORMER MEMBER OF CONSUMER COUNCIL
MISS LEONA LAM WAI-LING, PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, APPOINTED MEMBER OF TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD
MR WONG KWOK-KEUNG, SOCIAL WORKER, APPOINTED MEMBER OF KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD
MR FAN SA1-YEE, ACCOUNTANT, MEMBER OF APPEAL BOARD PANEL (TOWN PLANNING)
DR DAVID LEE KA-YAN, DOCTOR, FORMER PRESIDENT OF HONG KONG PAEDIATRIC SOCIETY
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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
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AMENDMENTS TO LIFTING APPLIANCES REGULATION ENDORSED
THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL HAS ENDORSED PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (LIFTING APPLIANCES AND LIFTING GEAR) REGULATION WHICH SEEK TO FURTHER PROTECT WORKERS’ SAFETY, THE ACTING ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR TSANG KIN-WOO, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
"IT IS NECESSARY TO INCREASE REGULATORY CONTROL TO FURTHER PROTECT WORKERS, PARTICULARLY WHEN MORE LIFTING APPLIANCES WILL BE USED ON THE INCREASING AMOUNT OF CONSTRUCTION WORK TAKING PLACE THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY, NOTABLY ON THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECTS," MR TSANG SAID. I
"THE RELEVANT PROVISIONS OF THE CONSTRUCTION SITES (SAFETY) REGULATION WILL BE AMENDED AND SUBSUMED UNDER THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (LIFTING APPLIANCES AND LIFTING GEAR) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993," MR TSANG SAID.
HE ADDED THAT THE DEFINITION OF ’COMPETENT EXAMINER’ IN THE CONSTRUCTION SITES (SAFETY) REGULATION WOULD ALSO BE AMENDED ACCORDINGLY.
HE SAID MORE STRINGENT REGULATORY MEASURES OVER THE SAFE USE OF LIFTING APPLIANCES AND LIFTING GEAR WOULD BE INTRODUCED UNDER THE AMENDMENT REGULATION TO BE PRESENTED TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON JULY 21.
THE MAJOR REQUIREMENTS ARE:
♦ LIFTING APPLIANCES MUST BE EXAMINED EVERY YEAR BY COMPETENT EXAMINERS;
* AN AUTOMATIC SAFE LOAD INDICATOR MUST BE INSTALLED ON A CRANE;
t PERSONS OPERATING CRANES MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER AND MUST POSSESS A VALID CERTIFICATE ISSUED BY THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY (CITA) OR BY ANY OTHER PERSONS SPECIFIED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR; AND
* A COMPETENT EXAMINER FOR LIFTING APPLIANCES AND LIFTING GEAR MUST BE A PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER REGISTERED UNDER THE ENGINEERS REGISTRATION ORDINANCE IN A RELEVANT DISCIPLINE SPECIFIED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR.
SINCE CONTRACTORS MAY NEED TIME TO COMPLY WITH THE PROPOSED PROVISIONS ON EMPLOYMENT OF QUALIFIED CRANE OPERATORS AND THE INSTALLATION OF SAFE OVERLOAD INDICATORS, MR TSANG SAID THE RELEVANT AMENDMENTS WOULD COME INTO EFFECT ON THREE DIFFERENT DATES.
"THE REQUIREMENT OF A CRANE OPERATOR TO POSSESS A VALID CERTIFICATE ISSUED BY THE CITA WILL COME INTO EFFECT ONE YEAR AFTER APPROVAL BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN ORDER TO ALLOW TIME TO TRAIN UP SUFFICIENT NUMBER OF QUALIFIED OPERATORS," MR TSANG SAID.
/"ON THE .......
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
"ON THE OTHER HAND, THE REQUIREMENT OF AN AUTOMATIC SAFE LOAD INDICATOR TO BE FITTED ON CRANES WOULD COME INTO OPERATION SIX MONTHS AFTER APPROVAL BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SO THAT THERE WOULD BE SUFFICIENT TIME FOR INSTALLATION.
"THE OTHER PROVISIONS WOULD BE BROUGHT INTO EFFECT IMMEDIATELY AFTER LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL HAS GIVEN ITS APPROVAL," HE ADDED.
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REDUCTION IN AI) VALOREM LEVY ON IMPORTS PROPOSED ♦ * * * ♦
THE GOVERNMENT IS PROPOSING TO REDUCE THE AD VALOREM LEVY (AVL) ON IMPORTS FROM 0.05 PER CENT TO 0.035 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF THE IMPORTS, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
THE PROPOSALS ARE CONTAINED IN THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (REGISTRATION) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993 WHICH WILL BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON JULY 21.
SUBJECT TO THE APPROVAL OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, IT IS INTENDED THAT THE REDUCTION WILL COME INTO EFFECT ON OCTOBER 1 THIS
AS A RESULT OF THE PROPOSED REDUCTION, IT IS ESTIMATED THAT IMPORTERS WILL STAND TO SAVE SOME $90 MILLION IN THE LEVY ON IMPORTS IN 1993/94 AND MORE THAN $1 BILLION OVER A PERIOD OF FIVE YEARS.
THIS WILL BENEFIT NOT ONLY IMPORTERS BUT ALSO MANUFACTURERS WHO RELY ON IMPORTED RAW MATERIALS OR COMPONENTS FOR THEIR PRODUCTION.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE PROPOSED REDUCTION WOULD ALSO HAVE THE EFFECT OF REDUCING THE GOVERNMENT’S SUBVENTION TO THE TRADF DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (TDC).
HISTORICALLY GOVERNMENT’S SUBVENTION TO THE TDC HAS BEEN CALCULATED BY REFERENCE TO THE NET AVL COLLECTED BY THF GOVERNMENT.
"BECAUSE OF THE TDC’S SOUND FINANCIAL POSITION AND ITS SUCCESS IN GENERATING ITS OWN REVENUE, THE GOVERNMENT HAS REACHED AN AGREEMENT WITH THE TDC TO REDUCE THE GOVERNMENT’S ANNUAL SUBVENTION TO THE TDC, BY THE SAME AMOUNT AS THE REDUCTION IN THE REVENUE FROM THE AVL ON IMPORTS COLLECTED BY THE GOVERNMENT," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE ADDED THAT THE PROPOSALS HAD THE FULL SUPPORT OF THE MEMBERS OF THE TDC INCLUDING THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MAJOR TRADE AND INDUSTRIAL ORGANISATIONS.
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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
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MOBIL OIL TSI NG YI COMPLEX DECLARED OPEN * * * * ♦
THE DEPUTY TO THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, TODAY (THURSDAY) DECLARED THE OPENING OF A NEW ADDITION TO HONG KONG’S ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE, THE MOBIL OIL TSI NG YI COMPLEX.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, HE SAID THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE OIL COMPLEX WAS A TREMENDOUS ACHIEVEMENT IN A NUMBER OF WAYS.
"PHYSICALLY, THE SITE POSED AN ENORMOUS CHALLENGE IN ITSELF WITH THE NEED TO CREATE THE SITE.
"MANY OF THE TECHNOLOGIES EMPLOYED HERE HAVE NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE IN HONG KONG," SIR DAVID SAID.
HE SAID THE SHEAR SCALE OF THE INVESTMENT DEMONSTRATED MOBIL’S COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG’S FUTURE.
"HONG KONG IS PLAYING A PIVOTAL ROLE IN UNLOCKING THE TREMENDOUS ECONOMIC POTENTIAL OF THE PEARL RIVER DELTA.
"THOSE WHO SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT THIS PART OF THE WORLD PRESENTS WILL BE WELL REWARDED."
RECOGNISING THAT MEETING LOCAL FUEL REQUIREMENTS WAS A DEMANDING BUSINESS, SIR DAVID SAID SUPPLY, STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION MUST BE SAFE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY ACCEPTABLE.
"HONG KONG IS FORTUNATE IN HAVING A NUMBER OF COMPANIES PREPARED TO TAKE ON SUCH LOGISTICAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL CHALLENGES AND TO MAKE A VERY SUBSTANTIAL LONG-TERM FINANCIAL COMMITMENT," HE SAID.
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RULE OF LAW AND HUMAN RIGHTS GIVEN PRIORITY THEMES
******
THE COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION (CPCE) HAS REAFFIRMED THAT ITS WORK THEME FOR THE YEAR 1993/94 WILL BE ON THE CONCEPTS OF THE RULE OF LAW AND HUMAN RIGHTS, THE COMMITTEE’S CHAIRMAN, DR DANIEL TSE CHT-WAI, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
DR TSE SAID THE COMMITTEE WOULD CONTINUE TO TAKE THE LEAD IN ENCOURAGING MORE CIVIC EDUCATION (CE) ACTIVITIES TO BE STAGED BY VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND ORGANISATIONS AT DISTRICT LEVEL.
SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE COMMITTEE’S WORK PLAN THIS (THURSDAY) MORNING, HE SAID THE TOTAL FUNDING FOR THE COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION SCHEME HAD BEEN INCREASED TO $1.2 MILLION, REPRESENTING A 20 PER CENT RISE OVER THAT OF 1992/93.
/THE SCHEME .......
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
THE SCHEME AIMS TO ENCOURAGE DISTRICT BODIES TO ORGANISE CE PROJECTS BY PROVIDING THEM WITH FINANCIAL RESOURCES. A TOTAL OF 35 OUT OF 84 APPLICATIONS HAVE BEEN APPROVED FOR THE CURRENT YEAR.
HE NOTED THAT 13 OF THESE APPROVED PROJECTS WOULD FOCUS ON THE THEMES OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE RULE OF LAW.
THE TOTAL FUNDING ALLOCATED TO THE COMMITTEE IS $2.4 MILLION FOR 1993/94, WHICH IS A 41 PER CENT INCREASE OVER 1992/93. IN ADDITION, A SUM OF $800,000 HAS BEEN EARMARKED FOR PUBLICITY PURPOSES*
DR TSE SAID THE COMMITTEE WOULD ADOPT MORE INTERESTING FORMATS TO ILLUSTRATE THE CONCEPTS THAT HAD OFTEN BEEN REGARDED BY MANY AS ’’ABSTRACT AND REMOTE”.
THE HUMAN RIGHTS TELELINE SERVICE AND CE CARD ARE EXAMPLES. BOTH OF WHICH WILL BE LAUNCHED IN THE COMING HUMAN RIGHTS EXHIBITION ON SATURDAY (JULY 3).
WHILE THE TELELINE COMPRISES FIVE SHORT DRAMAS REFLECTING DAY-TO-DAY SITUATIONS, THE CARDS, WHICH ARE INTRODUCED FOR THE FIRST TIME, WILL CARRY ARTICLES OF THE HONG KONG BILL OF RIGHTS ORDINANCE WITH PHOTOGRAPHS OF SHOW-BIZ STARS.
TO INTRODUCE THE CONCEPTS TO STUDENTS AND TO CALL ON TEACHERS AND FRONTLINE WORKERS TO RENDER THEIR SUPPORT, TWO SETS OF TEACHING KITS ARE BEING PRODUCED AND ARE EXPECTED TO BE READY LATER THIS YEAR.
OTHER PROGRAMMES INCLUDE A TERRITORY-WIDE CE SURVEY TO GAUGE PUBLIC’S VIEWS ON THE RULE OF LAW AND HUMAN RIGHTS AND A DISCUSSION ON THE LEGAL SYSTEMS IN HONG KONG AND CHINA.
THE SATURDAY’S EXHIBITION IS AN ANNUAL EVENT. THE CONVENOR OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION SUB-COMMITTEE, MR WILLIAM TSUI, WHO ALSO CHAIRS THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE ON THE EVENT, SAID A WELL MIX OF ACTIVITIES WILL GO ALONGSIDE WITHTHE FOUR-DAY EXHIBITION.
THE ACTIVITIES INCLUDE COMPUTER QUIZ, DRAMA SHOWS, A LABYRINTH, BOOK EXHIBITION, VIDEO AND SLIDE SHOW ON THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND CARTOONS TO ILLUSTRATE INDIVIDUAL PROVISIONS OF THE HONG KONG BILL OF RIGHTS ORDINANCE.
ALSO ON DISPLAY WILL BE THE EIGHT OUTSTANDING CE PROJECTS UNDER THE 1992/93 COMMUNITY PROJECTS SCHEME.
THE COMPUTER QUIZ, ENTITLED ’’ADVENTURE OF A WORM", HAS WON A MERIT AWARD IN THE 1992/93 HK INDEPENDENT SHORT FILM COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL.
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THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
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PUTTING ACROSS MACHINE SAFETY MESSAGE ******
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) LAUNCHED A PUBLICITY DRIVE TO PUT ACROSS THE MESSAGE OF PROPER GUARDING OF MACHINERY TO ENSURE WORKERS’ SAFETY.
DURING THE TWO-MONTH MACHINERY SAFETY AND SUMMER JOB SAFETY CAMPAIGN, FACTORY INSPECTORS WILL VISIT WORKPLACES TO EXPLAIN TO EMPLOYERS AND WORKERS THE IMPORTANCE OF EFFECTIVELY GUARDING THE DANGEROUS PARTS OF MACHINES.
"IN THIS YEAR’S CAMPAIGN, FACTORY INSPECTORS WILL FOCUS THEIR ATTENTION ON THE EMPLOYMENT OF SUMMER JOB WORKERS IN THE MANUFACTURING, CATERING AS WELL AS THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRIES," DEPUTY CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR, MR KAN HON-SANG, SAID.
"CATERING HAS BECOME A TRADE WHICH ATTRACTS MANY STUDENTS TO TAKE UP SUMMER JOBS, WHILE SOME OTHER STUDENTS WILL ALSO BE EMPLOYED TO WORK ON CONSTRUCTION SITES," MR KAN EXPLAINED.
THESE STUDENTS MAY NOT BE ADEQUATELY TRAINED AND MAY NOT BE WARE OF THE POTENTIAL HAZARDS THAT EXIST IN THE WORKING ENVIRONMENT, HE ADDED.
IN LAST YEAR’S CAMPAIGN, FACTORY INSPECTORS TOOK OUT 398 SUMMONSES AGAINST OFFENDING FACTORY PROPRIETORS.
IN ADDITION, OVER 12,000 PUBLICATIONS ON SUMMER JOB AND MACHINERY SAFETY WERE DISTRIBUTED DURING VISITS TO INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS, AND MORE THAN 400 SUMMER JOB WORKERS WERE ADVISED OF SAFETY AND HEALTH MATTERS.
HE SAID DANGEROUS PARTS OF MACHINERY, IF NOT PROPERLY GUARDED, OFTEN CAUSED SERIOUS ACCIDENTS RESULTING IN LOSS OF LIMBS OR EVEN DEATHS.
"SOME MACHINES ARE PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS, SUCH AS POWER PRESSES, GRANULATORS, AND MACHINES USED IN WOODWORK PAPER AND CATERING INDUSTRIES AS WELL AS PRINTING AND PLASTIC FACTORIES.
"STUDENTS WITHOUT PROPER TRAINING ARE MORE VULNERABLE TO VARIOUS KINDS OF RISK THAT MAY EXIST IN THE WORKPLACE AND SITES. AS SUCH, WE WILL ALSO LOOK OUT WHETHER LIFTING APPLIANCES AND HEAVY PLANTS ON CONSTRUCTION SITES ARE OPERATED BY PEOPLE UNDER THE AGE OF 18," MR KAN SAID.
DURING THE CAMPAIGN, INSPECTORS WILL ALSO TAKE OUT PROSECUTIONS AGAINST OFFENDERS UNDER THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (GUARDING AND OPERATION OF MACHINERY) REGULATION, IF UNGUARDED MACHINERY ARE FOUND TO BE OPERATING.
SINCE MAY, FACTORY INSPECTORS HAVE GIVEN TALKS TO ABOUT 4,900 STUDENTS IN 15 SCHOOLS, ADVISING THEM TO REFRAIN FROM TAKING UP SUMMER JOBS WITH POTENTIAL HAZARDS.
/"WE PLAN .......
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
9
"WE PLAN TO VISIT ANOTHER 31 SCHOOLS IN THE NEAR FUTURE BEFORE THE SCHOOL TERM ENDS THIS YEAR," HE SAID.
MR KAN APPEALED TO EMPLOYERS TO PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO ENSURE MACHINERY SAFETY AND URGED ALL WORKERS TO CO-OPERATE WITH EMPLOYERS IN TAKING NECESSARY SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
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HK DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL FOR NEW YORK CITY
*******
THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC AND TRADE OFFICE, NEW YORK, AND THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK ANNOUNCED THAT THE THIRD ANNUAL HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK WILL BE HELD FROM AUGUST 7 TO 15.
THE FESTIVAL, SPONSORED BY HONGKONGBANK, USA, WILL FEATURE AN EXCITING DRAGON BOAT REGATTA AND A CULTURAL EXHIBITION HIGHLIGHTING THE TRADITIONAL AND MODERN FEATURES OF HONG KONG.
ANNOUNCING THE PROGRAMME AT A NEWS CONFERENCE IN NEW YORK, MR RAYMOND FAN, ACTING DIRECTOR, HONG KONG ECONOMIC AND TRADE OFFICE, SAID: "HONG KONG IS A VERY MODERN AND COSMOPOLITAN CITY."
"A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW HONG KONG ONLY AS A SUCCESSFUL COMMERCIAL AND FINANCIAL CENTRE. BUT WE ALSO HAVE A COLOURFUL CULTURAL HERITAGE, WHICH WE ARE PROUD TO PRESENT TO NEW YORK," HE SAID.
AT THE NEWS CONFERENCE, THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORATION’S SENIOR EXECUTIVE VICE-PRESIDENT, MR MICHAEL GEOGHEGAN, PRESENTED THE SPONSORSHIP CHEQUE TO CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK, MR RODERICK RICHARDS.
MR RICHARDS, WHO IS ALSO THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK, INC, DESCRIBED THE SERIES OF FESTIVAL EVENTS AS EXCITING.
ON AUGUST 7 (SATURDAY), 16 TEAMS FROM NEW YORK CITY WILL COMPETE IN PRELIMINARY DRAGON BOAT RACE HEATS TN QUEENS, NEW YORK.
THE WINNERS WILL GO ON TO COMPETE WITH TEAMS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY IN A SERIES OF STANDARD 640-METRE RACES CULMINATING IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP RACE ON AUGUST 15 (SUNDAY), IN THE HUDSON RIVER NEAR THE STATUE OF LIBERTY.
THE WINNING TEAM OF THE DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL CHAMPIONSHIP RACE IN NEW YORK WILL BE AWARDED THE HONGKONGBANK CUP AND WILL BE FLOWN TO HONG KONG BY DELTA AIR LINES, THE OFFICIAL CARRIER OF THE FESTIVAL, TO PARTICIPATE IN THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL RACES SCHEDULED FOR JUNE NEXT YEAR.
THE NEW YORK DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL CHAMPIONSHIP RACE IS RECOGNISED BY THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL RACES.
/MR FAN ........
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
10
MR FAN SAID: "DRAGON BOAT RACING IS NOT JUST AN ANCIENT CHINESE TRADITION. IT IS ALSO A VERY EXCITING SPORTING COMPETITION AND A LOT OF FUN TO WATCH."
"IT IS BECOMING A POPULAR INTERNATIONAL SPORTING EVENT, AND ONE DAY I HOPE THAT A TEAM FROM OUR CHAMPIONSHIP RACE IN NEW YORK WILL BRING HOME THE RACING CUP FROM THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT RACE," HE SAID.
THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL'S CULTURAL EXHIBITION WILL BEGIN ON AUGUST 12 WITH A BUDDHIST PRIEST IN TRADITIONAL ROBES BLESSING THE DRAGON BOATS AND WATER DURING THE OPENING CEREMONY.
AT THE EXHIBITION, VISITORS WILL BE ABLE TO SAMPLE TRADITIONAL CHINESE DISHES, WATCH ARTISANS, TRADITIONAL CHINESE DANCERS AND EXHIBITIONS OF MARTIAL ARTS.
VISITORS WILL ALSO BE ABLE TO SEE THE MODERN FACES OF HONG KONG THROUGH EXHIBITS PROVIDED BY THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT, HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL AND HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION.
ON AUGUST 15 (SUNDAY), SPECTATORS AT THE CHAMPIONSHIP RACE WILL ALSO BE ABLE TO STROLL THROUGH A HONG KONG VILLAGE SET UP AT THE RACE SITE.
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50 CAR MARKS UP FOR AUCTION
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD ANOTHER AUCTION OF 50 LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS ON SATURDAY (JULY 3).
THE AUCTION WILL START AT 9.30 AM AT THE LECTURE HALL, SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, FIFTH FLOOR, URBAN COUNCIL SHEUNG WAN COMPLEX AT 345 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, HONG KONG.
THE REGISTRATION MARKS ARE:
FE8889 FF448 FF298 FF219
FF887 CC8138 BB1480 FF997
CA123 ♦FM868 *FJ2828 ♦ FK9
FF1128 FF389 FF388 AJ4200
FF991 XX229 FF1283 FF366
AC3882 FF138 CK1163 FF105
FF918 FF2881 FF320 FD9876
FL4 * 105 *FM88 *AL15
BB667 FF899 FF81 1 FF932
FF9388 FF108 FF889 DD2937
FF644 FF8611 *BC4 5 FF640
CM84 7 FF7971 XX7187 *FK1122
CB8602 FF5110
* SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK (NOT TRANSFERABLE)
/SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS .......
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
- 11 -
SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS MUST PAY BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT 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 GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND.
THE COMING AUCTION WILL BE THE 197TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973.
-----0------
TEMPORARY VENUE FOR CAR REGISTRATION MARKS AUCTION
*****
PEOPLE WISHING TO ACQUIRE THEIR FAVOURITE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS SHOULD NOTE THAT AUCTIONS STARTING THIS SATURDAY (JULY 3) UNTIL OCTOBER THIS YEAR WILL BE HELD AT A NEW VENUE AT THE LECTURE HALL, SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, FIFTH FLOOR, URBAN COUNCIL SHEUNG WAN COMPLEX, 345 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL.
A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THE TEMPORARY CHANGE OF VENUE WAS NECESSARY AS THE CITY HALL RECITAL HALL WOULD BE UNDER RENOVATION FROM JULY TO OCTOBER.
THE SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE WAS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AND WAS WELL-SERVED BY THE MTR, TRAMS, CHINA MOTOR BUS ROUTES 3A, 4, 5, 7, 10, 37,71, 79M AND TUNNEL BUS ROUTES 101, 104 AND 105.
THE AUCTION ON SATURDAY WILL START AT 9.30 AM WHEN A TOTAL OF 50 MARKS WILL BE PUT UP FOR AUCTION.
- - 0 - -
MEN FINED FOR ILLEGAL MEAT IMPORT *****
TWO MEN WERE CONVICTED AND FINED IN COURT RECENTLY FOR ILLEGAL IMPORTATION OF MEAT, ONE OF THEM WAS GIVEN A MAXIMUM FINE OF $25,000 PLUS FOUR MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT SUSPENDED FOR 18 MONTHS.
IN ONE OF THE CASES, THE MAN WAS ARRESTED AT MAN KAM TO CHECK POINT ON JUNE 22 AFTER HE FAILED TO PRODUCE OFFICIAL MANIFEST AND HEALTH DOCUMENTS RELATING TO THE IMPORTATION OF MEAT ON BOARD HIS GOODS VEHICLE, NAMELY 6,360 KILOGRAMS OF FRESH PIG CARCASES, 4,700 KILOGRAMS OF PORK CUTS AND 1,000 KILOGRAMS OF FRESH BEEF.
/HE WAS ........
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
- 12
HE WAS CONVICTED IN FANLING MAGISTRACY ON JUNE 30 AND WAS FINED $5,000.
IN THE OTHER CASE, ANOTHER MAN WAS CONVICTED IN THE SAME COURT ON JUNE 18 FOR ILLEGALLY IMPORTING 1,000 KILOGRAMS OF UNMANIFESTED FRESH BEEF CUTS, 250 KILOGRAMS OF FRESH PIG CARCASES AND 850 KILOGRAMS OF PROCESSED CATTLE BLOOD AND INTESTINES THROUGH THE MAN KAM TO CHECK POINT ON JUNE 14.
THE COURT IMPOSED THE MAXIMUM FINE ON HIM FOR THE OFFENCE.
---------0-----------
EMPLOYERS REMINDED TO CHECK RECRUITS’ IDENTITY * * * * *
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) CONFIRMED THAT A HONG KONG RESIDENT HAD BEEN SENTENCED TO 15 MONTHS OF IMPRISONMENT AND A FINE OF $5,000 BY THE COURT FOR OFFENCES RELATING TO EMPLOYMENT OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
ON JUNE 16, IMMIGRATION INVESTIGATORS VISITED A RESTAURANT IN SAU MAU PING UPPER ESTATE AND FIVE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM CHINA WERE FOUND WORKING THERE.
UPON ENQUIRIES, THE DEFENDANT, BEING THE OWNER OF THE RESTAURANT, ADMITTED TO HAVE EMPLOYED THOSE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS. HE WAS SUBSEQUENTLY CHARGED.
HE WAS CONVICTED AT THE WESTERN MAGISTRACY TODAY AND SENTENCED.
THE SPOKESMAN REMINDED ALL EMPLOYERS THAT THEY SHOULD CHECK THE IDENTITY OF THEIR RECRUITS. THEY WILL BE LIABLE TO PROSECUTION IF THEY DO NOT OBSERVE THIS LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENT.
IT IS ALSO AN OFFENCE TO EMPLOY A PERSON WHO EMPLOYABLE AND THE MAXIMUM PENALTY IS A FINE IMPRISONMENT FOR THREE YEARS.
IS NOT LAWFULLY
OF $250,000 AND
------0--------
BEACH WATER GRADES * * * * *
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) ANNOUNCED GRADES ON THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF ALL BATHING BEACHES IN HONG KONG.
THE PURPOSE OF THE GRADING SYSTEM IS TO INFORM SWIMMERS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC ABOUT THE STATE OF BACTERIOLOGICAL POLLUTION AT VARIOUS BEACHES.
/A SPOKESMAN .......
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
13 -
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE GRADING WOULD BE ANNOUNCED BIWEEKLY DURING THE BATHING SEASON, TO COINCIDE WITH THE FREQUENCY AT WHICH BEACH WATER WAS USUALLY SAMPLED.
THE GRADING IS BASED ON THE MOST RECENT E. COLI DATA OBTAINED BY THE DEPARTMENT IN ITS ROUTINE MONITORING PROGRAMME.
AS WITH LAST YEAR, THE GRADING ALSO INCLUDES AN ESTIMATE OF THE RISK OF SUFFERING SOME MINOR SKIN OR GASTROINTESTINAL COMPLAINTS AS A RESULT OF SWIMMING AT A BEACH THAT HAS SOME DEGREE OF POLLUTION.
THE ESTIMATE IS BASED ON A VERY LARGE BODY OF STATISTICAL INFORMATION GATHERED IN HONG KONG IN RECENT BATHING SEASONS.
THE GRADING OF SOME BEACHES MAY VARY DURING THE SUMMER. THIS REPRESENTS A NATURAL FLUCTUATION IN THE BACTERIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF BATHING WATERS IN MOST CASES, AS RAIN AND TIDES BRING MORE OR LESS POLLUTION TO THE BEACHES.
HOWEVER, THE GRADES GIVE A GOOD GENERAL PICTURE OF THE WATER QUALITY AT BATHING BEACHES AT THE TIME OF REPORTING AND FORM THE BEST AVAILABLE FORECAST FOR THE IMMEDIATE FUTURE.
"BEACHES WITH HIGHLY DEVELOPED HINTERLANDS ARE LIKELY TO BE MORE POLLUTED THAN THE GRADES SUGGEST DURING AND AFTER HEAVY RAIN.
"BATHERS SHOULD AVOID SUCH BEACHES FOR TWO OR THREE DAYS AFTER A STORM, LONGER IF THE WEATHER REMAINS OVERCAST OR LESS IF THERE IS STRONG SUNSHINE." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE SYSTEM FOR GRADING BEACH WATER QUALITY IS AS FOLLOWS:
♦ GRADE "1" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS GOOD. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 24 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED RISK OF MINOR ILLNESS TO SWIMMERS IS UNDETECTABLE.
* GRADE "2" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS FAIR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 180 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS NO MORE THAN 10 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
♦ GRADE "3" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS POOR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 610 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS NO MORE THAN 15 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
♦ GRADE "4" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS VERY POOR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS MORE THAN 610 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS MORE THAN 15 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
THE DECISION WHETHER OR NOT TO CLOSE A BEACH TO SWIMMERS IS BASED ON A JUDGMENT OF WHAT DEGREE OF POLLUTION IS ACCEPTABLE.
/NORMALLY, THE ........
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
14
NORMALLY, THE CLOSURE OF A BEACH WOULD ONLY BE CONSIDERED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL OR REGIONAL COUNCIL IF A GRADE ”4” OCCURRED REPEATEDLY, SO THAT THE AVERAGE HEALTH RISK OVER THE BATHING SEASON EXCEEDED 15 CASES PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
AT PRESENT, TWO BATHING BEACHES, CASTLE PEAK AND OLD CAFETERIA, HAVE BEEN DECLARED UNSUITABLE FOR SWIMMING, BASED ON THE WATER QUALITY DURING PAST SEASONS.
THEY ARE POLLUTED BY FAECAL WASTE. THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED NOT TO SWIM AT THE TWO BEACHES.
IN ADDITION, ROCKY BAY BEACH HAS BEEN CLOSED FOR SWIMMING BY THE URBAN COUNCIL. THE THREE BEACHES ARE IDENTIFIED BY AN ”X” IN THE FOLLOWING LIST.
THE GRADES ON THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF VARIOUS BEACHES TODAY ARE:
BEACH
PREVIOUS GRADING
PRESENT GRADING
(AS AT 17.6.93)
(AS AT 1.7.93)
SAI KUNG DISTRICT
CAMPERS
CLEAR WATER BAY 1ST BEACH CLEAR WATER BAY 2ND BEACH HAP MUN BAY KIU TSUI PAK SHA CHAU SILVERSTRAND TRIO (HEBE HAVEN)
1
2
2
1 I
1
2
2
2
2
2
1
2
2
2
2
ISLANDS DISTRICT
CHEUNG SHA UPPER CHEUNG SHA LOWER DISCOVERY BAY* HUNG SHING YEH KWUN YAM WAN TONG FUK LO SO SHING PUI O SILVERMINE BAY TUNG WAN, CHEUNG CHAU TUNG O*
1
2
2
2
2
1
1
2
3
2
2
1 3
2
1
2
1 1
2 3
2 2
/HONG KONG SOUTH .......
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
- 15 -
HONG KONG SOUTH
BIG WAVE BAY ! '•» 3 3
CHUNG HOM KOK 3 3
DEEP WATER BAY 2 2
HAIRPIN 3 3
MIDDLE BAY 2 2
REPULSE BAY 2 2
SHEK 0 3 3
SOUTH BAY 1 1
ST STEPHEN’S 3 3
TURTLE COVE 2 2
STANLEY MAIN 3 3
ROCKY BAY X X
TO TEI WAN* TUEN MUN DISTRICT 1 1 1 2 2
OLD CAFETERIA 1 X X
NEW CAFETERIA t 3 3
CASTLE PEAK X X
KADOORIE ( 3 3
BUTTERFLY 2 2
TSUEN WAN DISTRICT
ANGLERS’ 4 4
APPROACH 4 3
CASAM 4 4
GEMINI 3 3
HOI MEI WAN 4 4
LIDO 3 3
TING KAU 4 4
TUNG WAN, MA WAN 3 3
NOTE: ”X” THE BEACH HAS BEEN CLOSED FOR SWIMMING ♦ NON-GAZETTED BEACH
THE FOLLOWING BEACHES HAVE CHANGED GRADING ON THIS OCCASION:
HUNG SHING YEH FROM ”2” TO ”1”; APPROACH FROM ”4" TO "3”; CAMPERS, KIU TSUI AND PAR SHA CHAU FROM ”1” TO ”2”; CHEUNG SHA LOWER FROM ”2” TO ”3”.
THE CHANGES ARE WITHIN THE NORMAL RANGE OF FLUCTATION OF THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF THE BEACHES.
/THE GENERAL .......
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
- 16 -
THE GENERAL DETERIORATION AT CAMPERS, KIU TSUI, PAK SHA CHAU AND CHEUNG SHA LOWER BEACHES IS PROBABLY DUE TO THE RECENT HEAVY RAINFALL WHICH WOULD HAVE CAUSED THE POLLUTANTS IN THE BEACH HINTERLAND TO BE FLUSHED INTO THE SEA WATER.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
FOR FURTHER ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT DR MALCOLM BROOM,
PRINCIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICER ON TEL 835 1234.
--------0-----------
MUSIC CAMP FOR YOUTH * » » * »
THE 1993 HONG KONG YOUTH MUSIC CAMP WILL BE HELD AT THE REGIONAL COUNCIL'S SAI KUNG OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTRE FROM JULY 17 TO 31 .
ORGANISED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE AND SPONSORED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB, THE CAMP HAS BECOME AN ANNUAL EVENT SINCE 1980 TO PROVIDE INTENSIVE MUSIC TRAINING TO YOUNG MUSICIANS.
MORE THAN 400 MUSICALLY TALENTED YOUNGSTERS WILL PARTICIPATE IN THE CAMP WHICH INVOLVES A PLUCKED STRING CHINESE ORCHESTRA, A CHINESE ORCHESTRA. A STRING ORCHESTRA (SENIOR AND INTERMEDIATE), A CHOIR AND A SYMPHONIC BAND.
THE CAMPERS, INCLUDING 10 OVERSEAS YOUNG MUSICIANS, WILL RECEIVE INSTRUCTION AND GUIDANCE FROM GUEST MUSICIANS FROM HONG KONG, THE UNITED STATES AND CHINA.
THEY WILL ALSO RECEIVE A VARIETY OF TRAINING BY TAKING PART IN ORCHESTRAL AND SECTIONAL REHEARSALS, MASTER CLASSES AND DEMONSTRATION CONCERTS.
IN ADDITION, A WIDE RANGE OF RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND SPORTS, INCLUDING KARAOKE, SQUASH, SWIMMING, MUSIC QUIZ, BADMINTON AND BILLIARD, WILL BE LINED UP.
TO MARK THE CLOSE OF THE CAMP, A FINALE CONCERT WILL BE HELD AT THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL AUDITORIUM AT 3 PM ON AUGUST 1.
THE CAMP’S CHINESE ORCHESTRA, STRING ORCHESTRA (SENIOR) AND CHOIR WILL PRESENT A MUSIC PROGRAMME INCLUDING AVE VERUM CORPUS, BACHJANAS BRAS1LEIRAS, NO. 1, HAVANAISE OP. 8.3 AND TEA PLANTATIONS ALONG THE LIAN RIVER.
TICKETS AT $30 AND $40 EACH ARE ON SALE AT ALL URBTIX OUTLETS. HALF-PRICE TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FOR FULL-TIME STUDENTS AND SENIOR CITIZENS AGED 60 OR ABOVE.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 582 5314.
------0--------
/17........
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
FIREMEN PRAISED FOR RESCUE WORK ♦ ♦♦♦♦♦
SIX FIRE PERSONNEL AND AN AMBULANCEMAN WERE TODAY (THURSDAY) HIGHLY COMMENDED BY THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES, MR JERRY LAM CHEK-YUEN, FOR THEIR ROLES IN THE FIRE-FIGHTING AND RESCUE OPERATION AT AN ELDERLY HOME IN KOWLOON LAST WEEK.
SPEAKING AT THE AWARD CEREMONY, MR LAM SAID ALL STAFF AT THE SCENE HAD DEMONSTRATED GOOD TEAM WORK IN FIGHTING THE NO.3 ALARM FIRE AND SAVING LIVES.
"THEY RESCUED ALL THE TRAPPED PEOPLE WITHIN 19 MINUTES AND QUICKLY CONTROLLED THE FIRE WITHIN 38 MINUTES," HE SAID.
"THEIR ACTIONS HAD REDUCED THE NUMBER OF DEATHS, INJURIES AND LOSS OF PROPERTY TO THE MINIMUM," HE SAID, ADDING THAT ALL OF THEM FULLY EXEMPLIFIED THE SPIRIT OF THE ’ELITE’ BRIGADE.
THE FIRE BROKE OUT ON THE SECOND FLOOR OF A THREE-STOREY BUILDING AT 108 BOUNDARY STREET AT 4.34 PM ON JUNE 24. FIREMEN ARRIVED THERE WITHIN FOUR MINUTES AFTER RECEIVING THE CALL.
SINCE IT WAS SUSPECTED TO BE AN ARSON CASE INVOLVING COMBUSTIBLE SUBSTANCES, THE FIRE DEVELOPED RAPIDLY.
MR LAM POINTED OUT THAT THERE WERE MANY PEOPLE WAITING TO BE RESCUED AND THE MEANS OF ESCAPE WERE HEAVILY SMOKE-LOGGED, MAKING THE RESCUE AND FIRE-FIGHTING WORK MUCH MORE DIFFICULT.
TWO ELDERLY WOMEN DIED WHILE 30 INJURED PEOPLE WERE RESCUED AND SENT TO HOSPITAL FOR TREATMENT.
MR LAM SAID: "IT IS THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT’S STATUTORY DUTY TO PROTECT LIVES AND PROPERTY TN THE EVENT OF FIRE AND OTHER CALAMITIES AND, AT THE SAME TIME, TO PROVIDE AN EFFICIENT AMBULANCE SERVICE."
"TO KEEP PACE WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMUNITY, EVERY UNIT OF THE DEPARTMENT IS STRIVING TO IMPROVE THE SERVICE STANDARD AND ENHANCE MEMBERS’ PROFESSIONALISM," HE SAID.
UNDER A PERFORMANCE PLEDGE ANNOUNCED SIX MONTHS AGO, THE DEPARTMENT HAS UNDERTAKEN TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF ITS SERVICE.
AWARDED THE DIRECTOR’S COMMENDATIONS ARE STATION OFFICER HO WAI-WA, PROBATIONAL STATION OFFICER LO KIT-HUNG, SENIOR FIREMEN KONG SIU-MING AND CHEUNG KAM-TONG, AND FIREMEN LAI KAM-PUI AND PUN KA-WA.
SENIOR AMBULANCEMAN LAM SHING WAS AWARDED THE FAVOURABLE ENTRY.
--------0-----------
/18........
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
18 -
NORTH SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMMES BEQIN ON SATURDAY ♦ * * * *
A FUN DAY TO LAUNCH THE NORTH DISTRICT SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMMES (SYP) WILL BE HELD IN LUNG SAM AVENUE INDOOR RECREATION CENTRE ON SATURDAY (JULY 3).
LOCAL RESIDENTS ARE WELCOME TO TAKE PART IN A VARIETY OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES INCLUDING BADMINTON, SQUASH, ROCK CLIMBING, ELECTRICAL VEHICLE DRIVING, AND GYMNASTIC EXERCISES. ALL THE PROGRAMMES ARE FREE OF CHARGE.
THERE WILL ALSO BE A LUCKY DRAW.
THE FUN DAY WILL BE HELD BETWEEN 9 AM AND 1 PM. THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 11 AM.
OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR RAYMOND PANG; NORTH DISTRICT OFFICER, MR TIMOTHY TONG; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE SYP ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR CHEUNG FO-TAI.
RUFFLE TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 675 1584.
--------0------------
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
$ MILLION
2,690
+ 110
2,800
NIL
-150
2,650
TWI 112.6 *+0.3* 1.7.93
/HONG KONG .......
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 1993
- 19 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.78 PCT 14 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.40 4.05
1 MONTH 3.48 PCT 17 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.56 4.24
3 MONTHS 3.36 PCT 20 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.61 4.40
6 MONTHS 3.55 PCT 23 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.62 4.57
12 MONTHS 3.91 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 9,950 MN
CLOSED 1 JULY 1993
- - 0 - -
Received by PRO on____?JUL 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 842 8777
FRIDAY, JULY 2, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
HURD'S PEKING VISIT USEFUL FOR HONG KONG ........................ 1
NEW SENIOR UK REPRESENTATIVE TO JOINT LIAISON GROUP ............. 2
JAPANESE FIRMS GAIN LARGEST SHARE OF AIRPORT CONTRACTS .......... 2
FINANCIAL SECRETARY STARTS CONSULTATION ON BUDGET 94/95 .... 3
TRANSCRIPT OF REMARKS BY FINANCIAL SECRETARY MR HAMISH
MACLEOD AFTER BRIEFING LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS ON THE EXPENDITURE ASPECTS OF THE 1994/95 BUDGET TODAY ............... 5
PROPOSALS TO REFORM BANKRUPTCY LAW .............................. 7
BANKING LICENCE GRANTED TO HUA NAN COMMERCIAL BANK .............. 7
DRIVE TO IMPROVE CO-OPERATION OF PARENTS AND TEACHERS ........... 8
CALL TO TEAR DOWN WALL OF PREJUDICE AGAINST AIDS PATIENTS .. 8
NEW FORMULA TO CALCULATE RESOURCES OF LEGAL AID APPLICANTS . 10
TRAVELLERS URGED TO GUARD AGAINST DISEASES ..................... 10
WATCH OUT FOR IMPOSTERS ........................................ 11
TWO MORE DEPARTMENTS GOVERNED BY COMPLAINTS LAW ................ 11
NEW ROADS FOR TSEUNG KWAN O PROPOSED ........................... 12
BABY BORN ON BOARD HELICOPTER .................................. 13
TSAT TSZ MUI ROAD CLOSURE PROPOSED ............................. 13
HK YOUTH SYMPHONIC BAND AUSTRALIA TOUR IN CONCERT .............. 14
RETAIL SALES FIGURES FOR APRIL ................................. 15
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS . 17
1
FRIDAY, JULY 2, 1993
HURD’S PEKING VISIT USEFUL FOR HONG KONG
*****
THE DEPUTY TO THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, TODAY (FRIDAY) WELCOMED THE NEWS THAT THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS, MR DOUGLAS HURD, WOULD BE GOING TO PEKING ON JULY 8 AND 9.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER ATTENDING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC JOURNAL, SIR DAVID SAID IT WAS VERY USEFUL FOR MR HURD TO BE ABLE TO TALK DIRECTLY TO THE CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTER ABOUT THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG.
MR HURD WILL BE COMING TO HONG KONG AFTERWARDS AND WILL BRIEF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL ON HIS PEKING VISIT.
ASKED BY THE MEDIA ABOUT THE DECISIONS OF THE CABINET MEETING IN LONDON AFTER OFFICIATING AT THE GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY OF KAP SHUI MUN BRIDGE EARLIER IN THE DAY, SIR DAVID SAID:
"THE MOOD OF THE COMMUNITY, AS A WHOLE, I THINK, IS THAT WE CLEARLY WANT TO BE ABLE TO REACH A NEGOTIATIVE SETTLEMENT WITH CHINESE GOVERNMENT.”
"IN ORDER TO DO THAT, WE SHOULD KEEP TALKING FOR A WHILE TO TRY AND DO SO," HE SAID.
SIR DAVID POINTED OUT THAT TIME WAS NOT ENDLESS.
"AS THE GOVERNOR AND THE FOREIGN SECRETARY HAVE SAID, WE DO HAVE TO HAVE ARRANGEMENTS PUT IN PLACE IN GOOD TIME. SO WE NEED TO MAKE GOOD PROGRESS."
SIR DAVID REJECTED REPORTS THAT THE GOVERNOR HAD SOFTENED HIS POSITION WITH REGARD TO THE "THROUGH TRAIN" CONCEPT.
"WHAT THE GOVERNOR SAID ABOUT THE THROUGH TRAIN IN LONDON IS NOTHING DIFFERENT FROM WHAT HE’S BEEN SAYING FOR THE LAST THREE MONTHS.
"OUR POSITION IS EXACTLY THE SAME.
"WE WANT TO SEE OBJECTIVE CRITERIA THAT EVERYBODY WHO STANDS FOR ELECTION IN 1995, SO THAT THEY WILL KNOW, ON AN OBJECTIVE BASIS, WHETHER THEY ARE GOING TO STAY IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL UNTIL 1999.
"THAT’S OUR POSITION. THAT’S THE POSITION THE GOVERNOR HAS EXPLAINED," HE ADDED.
COMMENTING ON THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECT, SIR DAVID HOPED THAT THE GOVERNMENT COULD SOON REACH AGREEMENT WITH THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT ON THOSE ASPECTS THAT ARE STILL OUTSTANDING.
"WE LOOK FORWARD TO ANOTHER MEETING OF THE AIRPORT COMMITTEE WITHIN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS AND I HOPE THAT MEETING WILL BE PRODUCTIVE," HE SAID.
SIR DAVID ADDED THAT IF HONG KONG WANTED TO COMPLETE THE WHOLE PROJECT ON TIME AND WITHIN BUDGET IT DTD NEED TO REACH AGREEMENT WITH THE CHINESE SIDE.
FRIDAY, JULY 2, 1993
2
NEW SENIOR UK REPRESENTATIVE TO JOINT LIAISON GROUP
*****
MR HUGH DAVIES, WHO IS AT PRESENT TEMPORARILY OCCUPYING THE POST OF SENIOR BRITISH TRADE COMMISSIONER, WILL BE TAKING OVER FROM MR ANTHONY GALSWORTHY AS SENIOR UK REPRESENTATIVE TO THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT LIAISON GROUP IN THE EARLY AUTUMN.
MR GALSWORTHY WILL BE RETURNING TO LONDON TO TAKE UP A POST IN THE CABINET OFFICE.
MR FRANCIS CORNISH, CURRENTLY HEAD OF NEWS DEPARTMENT AT THE FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE, WILL TAKE UP HIS DUTIES AS SENIOR BRITISH TRADE COMMISSIONER IN MID-SEPTEMBER.
- - 0 - -
JAPANESE FIRMS GAIN LARGEST SHARE OF AIRPORT CONTRACTS
*****
JAPANESE COMPANIES HAVE SO FAR WON THE LION’S SHARE OF CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS FOR THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME (ACP), THE DEPUTY TO THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE GROUND-BREAKING CEREMONY OF THE KAP SHUI MUN BRIDGE AND VIADUCT, SIR DAVID PAID TRIBUTE TO THE DESIGNERS AND CONTRACTORS FROM MANY COUNTRIES WHO HAD COME TO HONG KONG TO WORK ON THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME (ACP).
HE SAID JAPANESE COMPANIES HAD WON $7.4 BILLION WORTH OF ACP CONTRACTS. THIS INCLUDED THE DESIGN AND BUILD CONTRACT FOR THE KAP SHUI MUN BRIDGE AND VIADUCT WHICH WAS BEING CARRIED OUT BY THE ALL-JAPANESE KUMAGAI-MAEDA-YOKOGAWA-HITACHI JOINT VENTURE.
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS WORTH A TOTAL OF MORE THAN $34 BILLION HAVE BEEN LET ON THE AIRPORT AND NINE OTHER ASSOCIATED PROJECTS. ALL WERE BELOW BUDGET ESTIMATES AND ON SCHEDULE TO BE COMPLETED ON TIME.
"THIS IS A RARE ACHIEVEMENT ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD. HONG KONG IS SHOWING ONCE AGAIN THAT IT KNOWS HOW TO EXECUTE LARGE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS SUCCESSFULLY - AND THE KAP SHUI MUN BRIDGE AND MA WAN VIADUCT CONTRACT, WITH ITS COMPLETION DATE OF MAY 1997, WILL, I AM SURE, BE ANOTHER EXCELLENT EXAMPLE OF THAT RECORD," SIR DAVID SAID.
IN ADDITION, THE FRANCHISE FOR THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING IS READY TO GO AHEAD AT A CONSTRUCTION COST OF ABOUT $6 BILLION, ALSO WITHIN BUDGET ESTIMATES.
"CONSTRUCTION OF THIS IMPORTANT PRIVATE SECTOR FRANCHISE SHOULD START IN AUGUST, AND I VERY MUCH HOPE THAT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL PASS THE NECESSARY LEGISLATION IN ITS CURRENT SESSION SO THAT THIS CAN HAPPEN," HE SAID.
THE KAP SHUI MUN BRIDGE AND VIADUCT TOGETHER WITH THE TSING MA BRIDGE FORMS THE LANTAU FIXED CROSSING THAT WILL LINK THE NEW TOWN AND AIRPORT ON LANTAU TO THE URBAN AREAS.
/THE KAP
FRIDAY, JULY 2, 1993
3
THE KAP SHUT MUN BRIDGE WITH A MAIN SPAN OF 430 METRES WILL BE THE WORLD’S LONGEST CABLE-STAYED BRIDGE FOR BOTH ROAD AND RAIL TRAFFIC.
THE 820-METRE-LONG BRIDGE WILL HAVE TWO DECKS, ONE WITH ENCLOSED TRACKS FOR THE HIGH-SPEED AIRPORT RAILWAY AND SHELTERED ROAD FOR USE IN THE MOST SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS.
-----0-----
FINANCIAL SECRETARY STARTS CONSULTATION ON BUDGET 94/95
******
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, TODAY (FRIDAY) BEGAN HIS CONSULTATION WITH LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS ON NEXT YEAR’S BUDGET BY BRIEFING THEM ON THE MAIN FACTORS TO BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT.
THE BRIEFING WILL BE FOLLOWED BY MEETINGS WITH MEMBERS IN GROUPS OVER THE NEXT 10 DAYS TO HEAR THEIR VIEWS ON PRIORITIES FOR SPENDING IN TERMS OF BROAD POLICY AREAS.
"CONSULTATION WITH LEGCO MEMBERS LAST YEAR CONTRIBUTED, I BELIEVE, TO THE SUCCESS OF THE 1993 BUDGET AND I AM GRATEFUL FOR MEMBERS’ SUPPORT IN THE BUDGET DEBATE," MR MACLEOD SAID.
"TODAY’S BRIEFING WILL HELP US DECIDE ON THE ALLOCATION OF RESOURCES TO GOVERNMENT PROGRAMMES. IN ADDITION, BRANCH SECRETARIES WILL CONTINUE TO HAVE FLEXIBILITY TO DEPLOY RESOURCES WITHIN AND BETWEEN THEIR POLICY AREAS," HE ADDED.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE GOVERNMENT REMAINED COMMITTED TO THE MAIN BUDGETARY GUIDELINE THAT EXPENDITURE GROWTH MUST BE KEPT WITHIN THE TREND GROWTH RATE OF GDP, WHICH IS PROVISIONALLY FORECAST TO BE FIVE PER CENT.
"THIS MEANS THAT RECURRENT EXPENDITURE IS EXPECTED TO INCREASE BY ROUGHLY $4.5 BILLION IN REAL TERMS," HE SAID.
HOWEVER, HE NOTED THAT A SUBSTANTIAL PART OF THIS SUM HAD ALREADY BEEN EARMARKED TO MEET IMPROVEMENTS COMING ON STREAM NEXT YEAR, AS WELL AS FURTHER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS IN 1994/95 TOWARDS MEETING THE 1997 TARGETS ANNOUNCED IN THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS IN 1992 IN VARIOUS POLICY AREAS.
"FOR EXAMPLE, MONEY HAS ALREADY BEEN EARMARKED FOR MORE CARE AND ATTENTION HOME PLACES FOR THE ELDERLY, EXTRA CHILD CARE PLACES, AND EXPANSION IN FACILITIES FOR THE DISABLED.
"EXTRA FUNDS HAVE ALSO BEEN SET ASIDE TO IMPROVE THE TEACHERCLASS RATIO AND TO PROVIDE MORE HOSPITAL BEDS," HE SAID.
HE SAID ON TOP OF THESE SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS, FURTHER NEW SERVICES COULD BE FUNDED BY THE BALANCE OF THE NEW MONEY AND REDEPLOYMENT OF RESOURCES.
/HE HOPED .......
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HE HOPED THAT CONSULTATION WITH MEMBERS WOULD HELP THE GOVERNMENT MAP OUT HOW BEST TO DIRECT THE RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO MEET THE ASPIRATIONS AND NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY NOTED THAT TOTAL RECURRENT EXPENDITURE HAD INCREASED BY ABOUT 28 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS, FROM 1988/89 TO 1993/94.
RECURRENT EXPENDITURE ON KEY AREAS LIKE SOCIAL WELFARE, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT HAD EVEN EXCEEDED THIS RATE OF GROWTH, HE SAID.
ON CAPITAL EXPENDITURE, MR MACLEOD NOTED THAT OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS, TOTAL EXPENDITURE ON MAJOR NON-AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS HAD INCREASED BY MORE THAN 47 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS.
HE TOLD MEMBERS THAT IT WAS CLEAR FROM UNDERSPENDING ON CAPITAL WORKS PROJECTS THAT THERE WERE CAPACITY CONSTRAINTS IN WORKS DEPARTMENTS.
"I AM CHAIRING A STEERING COMMITTEE OVERSEEING CONSULTANTS WHO ARE EXAMINING WHAT CAN BE DONE,” HE SAID.
HE INVITED MEMBERS TO MAKE SUGGESTIONS ABOUT PRIORITY AREAS FOR POSSIBLE NEW PUBLIC WORKS ITEMS TO BE INCLUDED IN THE FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL WORKS PROGRAMME.
HOWEVER, HE CAUTIONED THAT TOO MANY NEW PROJECTS THAT COULD OVERLOAD THE SYSTEM MUST NOT BE ADDED AND SHOULD BEAR IN MIND THAT IT NORMALLY TOOK A LEAD TIME OF AT LEAST TWO YEARS TO START NEW PROJECTS.
AFTER SEEKING MEMBERS’ VIEWS ON EXPENDITURE PRIORITIES, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY WILL LATER IN THE YEAR CONDUCT ANOTHER ROUND OF CONSULTATION WITH MEMBERS ON REVENUE OPTIONS.
AT TODAY’S BRIEFING, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TOLD MEMBERS THAT THE GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTS FOR 1992/93, WHICH HAD JUST BEEN COMPLETED, SHOWED THAT THE CONSOLIDATED SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR AMOUNTED TO $21.9BILLION.
THIS IS MARGINALLY HIGHER THAN THE REVISED ESTIMATE OF $20.5BILLION INCLUDED IN HIS BUDGET SPEECH IN MARCH THIS YEAR.
"I AM PLEASED THAT THE VARIANCE BETWEEN THE REVISED ESTIMATES AND THE OUTTURN FOR THE YEAR IS QUITE SMALL - THE LOWEST IN THE PAST FIVE YEARS.
"THIS REFLECTS THE EFFORTS MADE DURING 1992/93 TO ACHIEVE GREATER REALISM IN OUR FORECASTING," HE SAID.
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TRANSCRIPT OF REMARKS BY FINANCIAL SECRETARY MR HAMISH MACLEOD AFTER BRIEFING LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS ON THE EXPENDITURE ASPECTS OF THE 1994/95 BUDGET TODAY *****
FS: GOOD MORNING. WELL, NO SOONER IS ONE BUDGET OVER AND ALAS THE NEXT BUDGET BEGINS TO TAKE SHAPE AND OBVIOUSLY WHAT I HAVE BEEN DOING THIS MORNING IS REALLY STARTING THE PROCESS WHICH WILL LEAD TO THE NEXT BUDGET AND OF COURSE WILL ALSO AFFECT THE GOVERNOR’S SPEECH IN OCTOBER - THE TRADITIONAL SPEECH OPENING LEGCO. SO I WAS VERY MUCH SETTING OUT THE BACKGROUND FOR MEMBERS OF OUR ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL SITUATION, BOTH NOW AND AS WE SEE IT UNFOLDING OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS. A KEY ASSUMPTION CONTINUES TO BE THE QUESTION OF THE MEDIUM RANGE FORECAST AND THE QUESTION OF GDP GROWTH OVER THAT PERIOD, THE PERIOD UP TO 1997-98. I MENTIONED THE NEW FACTOR WHICH WE HAVE TO BEGIN TO TRY AND ASSESS THE IMPLICATIONS OF, I.E. THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS IN CHINA WHICH IN SHORTHAND OF COURSE FOR IN PARTICULAR THE INFLATION PROBLEM AND THE ASSESSMENT OF WHAT IMPACT THE STEPS THEY TAKE TO DEAL WITH THAT MIGHT HAVE ON THEIR ECONOMIC GROWTH AND HENCE ON OUR OWN ECONOMIC Gl >WTH BUT AT THE MOMENT I TOLD MEMBERS WE ARE CONTINUING TO USE THE 6 PER CENT GDP GROWTH FIGURE AS AN ASSUMPTION. THAT IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE IT MEANS, ROUGHLY SPEAKING, BECAUSE IT’S A PROVISIONAL FIGURE, WE CAN STILL ANTICIPATE OUR EXPENDITURE GROWING ABOUT 5 PER CENT NEXT YEAR AND THAT SHOULD BE AN REASSURING MESSAGE.
SECONDLY, I UPDATED MEMBERS ON THE FINAL FIGURE, AND ACTUALLY SOMETIMES IN GOVERNMENT IT IS CALLED THE FINAL FINAL FIGURE, BUT ANYWAY, THE FINAL FIGURE ON THE OUTTURN ON THE SURPLUS FOR 92-93. I WAS RELIEVED, I MUST SAY, TO BE ABLE TO TELL MEMBERS THAT IT’S NOT TOO DIFFERENT FROM THE FIGURE WHICH I PRODUCED IN THE BUDGET, THE REVISED ESTIMATE IN THE BUDGET. THE FIGURE $21.9 BILLION IS ACTUALLY $1.4 BILLION ABOVE THE REVISED ESTIMATE WHICH IS NOT A LARGE SUM OF MONEY AND I AM TOLD IT’S THE SMALLEST DIFFERENCE WE ACHIEVED TN THE LAST FIVE YEARS. SO I TAKE THAT OUR FORECASTING IS IMPROVING. ALTHOUGH I GUESS THE TEST OF THAT WILL BE NEXT YEAR WHEN WE SEE WHETHER WE CAN REPEAT IT. THAT FIGURE THEREFORE DOES NOT AFFECT THE ISSUE MUCH ONE WAY OR THE OTHER.
I AM LOOKING FORWARD OVER THE NEXT WEEK OR TEN DAYS TO MEETING MEMBERS IN GROUPS WHEN THEY WILL BE GIVING ME THEIR VIEWS ON PRIORITIES, IN PARTICULAR FOR EXPENDITURE, I AM DEALING WITH REVENUE LATER, PRIORITIES FOR EXPENDITURE FOR THE NEXT BUDGET. SO THAT’S THE PROCESS WHICH WE’VE JUST BEGUN AND WHICH I LOOK FORWARD TO TAKING PART IN. ANY QUESTIONS?
REPORTER: WHAT’S HAPPENING IN CHINA
.........MORE DIFFICULT FOR THE
NEXT BUDGET?
/FS: YES ........
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FS : YES. I DON’T WANT TO EXAGGERATE IT. THE FACT IS THAT ANY FINANCIAL SECRETARY, OR ANY CHANCELLOR, OR WHATEVER THEY MIGHT BE CALLED SOMEWHERE ELSE, THE NATURE OF THE JOB IS THAT YOU HAVE TO LOOK AT THE DOWNSIDE RISKS MORE THAN YOU LOOK AT THE UPSIDES BECAUSE OUR JOB IS TO BE ACTUALLY RATHER CAUTIOUS. SO LAST YEAR WE HAD THE POTENTIAL DOWNSIDE OF THE MFN ISSUE BETWEEN THE US AND CHINA, WHICH AT LEAST HAS BEEN EXTENDED FOR ANOTHER YEAR, CONTINUES OF COURSE TO BE A POTENTIAL DOWNSIDE. I THINK THE ONLY NEW DOWNSIDE THAT WE HAVE IS THIS NEW DEVELOPMENT IN CHINA AND THE EFFECTS ON US. I THINK YOU HAVE SEEN THE INITIAL REACTIONS OF ECONOMISTS, BANK ECONOMISTS IN PARTICULAR, IN THE MEDIA OVER THE LAST FEW WEEKS, WHICH I DON’T HAVE STRONG DISAGREEMENT. I DON’T THINK ANYONE IS FORECASTING MAJOR PROBLEMS FOR HONG KONG. BUT WHEN IT COMES TO FINETUNING FORECAST, THEN WE’LL CERTAINLY HAVE TO LOOK AT THE IMPLICATIONS. THEY WILL BECOME CLEARER, I THINK, OVER THE COMING MONTHS. IT’S QUITE DIFFICULT AT THIS EARLY STAGE TO KNOW WHAT THE IMPLICATIONS ARE BECAUSE WE DON’T KNOW WHAT THE MEASURES ARE GOING TO BE.
REPORTER: TOO EARLY TO START THE CONSULTATION EXERCISE?
FS: THE EXERCISE CAN’T ACTUALLY WAIT BECAUSE WE ARE DEALING HERE WITH A HUGE NUMBER OF DECISIONS, ON BOTH EVERY DEPARTMENT’S RECURRENT EXPENDITURE AND EVERY PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME ITEM. YOU ARE ACTUALLY DEALING WITH THOUSANDS OF ITEMS OF EXPENDITURE. IT’S TRUE OF COURSE THAT MEMBERS WILL NOT DEAL WITH THE SMALL ONES. BUT EVEN FOR THE LARGER ONES, WE NEED TO BEGIN TO GET THE FEEL QUITE SOON FOR WHAT SHOULD BE PRIORITIES AND HOW THEY FIT AGAINST THE SIZE OF THE CAKE, THE SIZE OF THE ACTUAL MONEY AVAILABLE.
REPORTER: YOU STILL GET CRITICISED AFTER THE CONSULTATION
EXERCISE
.............(INAUDIBLE)
FS: 1 AM NOT AT ALL NEGATIVE LIKE THAT. I THINK IT WAS GENERALLY AGREED BY MEMBERS THAT THE EXERCISE LAST YEAR WAS ACTUALLY RATHER USEFUL. FORTUNATELY FOR ME, LAST YEAR IT PRODUCED QUITE A DEGREE OF CONSENSUS ON WHAT THE PRIORITIES SHOULD BE. I HOPE THAT WILL BE THE CASE AGAIN THIS YEAR.
REPORTER: THE PRIORITIES THIS YEAR?
FS: THAT - I AM WAITING FOR MEMBERS TO TELL ME SO I AM NOT GOING TO GUESS. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
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PROPOSALS TO REFORM BANKRUPTCY LAW *****
THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION’S SUB-COMMITTEE ON INSOLVENCY TODAY (FRIDAY) PUBLISHED A CONSULTATIVE DOCUMENT CONTAINING ITS TENTATIVE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR AN OVERHAUL OF THE BANKRUPTCY ORDINANCE.
THE CONSULTATION WILL LAST THREE MONTHS.
THE SUB-COMMITTEE’S CHAIRMAN, JUDGE TYLER, SAID THE CONSULTATIVE DOCUMENT MADE OVER 100 TENTATIVE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CHANGE TO THE BANKRUPTCY ORDINANCE.
THESE RECOMMENDATIONS COVERED MOST OF THE MAJOR PROVISIONS OF THE ORDINANCE AND REFLECTED AN INTERNATIONAL CHANGE IN APPROACH TO BANKRUPTCY AND THE TREATMENT OF BANKRUPTS.
THE SUB-COMMITTEE ON INSOLVENCY HAD BEEN FORMED IN RESPONSE TO CONCERNS EXPRESSED BY THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER AND PRACTITIONERS THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THE BANKRUPTCY ORDINANCE, WHICH DATED FROM 1914, WERE BOTH OUT OF DATE IN SO FAR AS THE REQUIREMENTS OF PRACTITIONERS WERE CONCERNED AND OUT OF TOUCH WITH THE NEEDS OF MODERN SOCIETY.
THE SUB-COMMITTEE INVITES PUBLIC COMMENTS BEFORE FINALISING ITS RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION.
WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS SHOULD BE MADE BY SEPTEMBER 30 TO MR JEREMY GLEN, SECRETARY OF THE SUB-COMMITTEE ON INSOLVENCY OF THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION, FIRST FLOOR, HIGH BLOCK, 66 QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, HONG KONG.
COPIES OF THE CONSULTATIVE DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN SENT TO INTERESTED PARTIES FOR VIEWS AND COMMENTS. PRICED AT $62, THE DOCUMENT WILL BE ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CENTRAL NEXT MONDAY (JULY 5).
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BANKING LICENCE GRANTED TO HUA NAN COMMERCIAL BANK *****
HUA NAN COMMERCIAL BANK LTD HAS BEEN GRANTED A BANKING LICENCE TO CONDUCT BUSINESS IN HONG KONG, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
HUA NAN COMMERCIAL BANK IS THE FOURTH LARGEST BANK IN TAIWAN AND 193RD IN THE WORLD.
THE BANK HAS BEEN OPERATING A REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE IN HONG KONG SINCE AUGUST 1991.
THE NEW BRANCH WILL ENABLE THE BANK TO OFFER A FULLER RANGE OF BANKING SERVICES TO ITS CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS WITH HONG KONG AND CHINA.
THE ENTRY OF HUA NAN COMMERCIAL BANK RAISES THE BANKING POPULATION TO 168 LICENSED BANKS, OF WHICH 136 ARE INCORPORATED OUTSIDE THE TERRITORY.
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DRIVE TO IMPROVE CO-OPERATION OF PARENTS AND TEACHERS * * * * »
"PARENTS AND TEACHERS TOGETHER” WILL BE THE BYWORD IN A PUBLICITY DRIVE TO IMPROVE HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION DUE TO BEGIN LATER THIS MONTH.
IN ANNOUNCING THIS, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION COMMITTEE SAID A 13-PART SERIES WILL BE AIRED BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG (RTHK) ON PARENT-TEACHER INTERACTION AND THE RIGHT WAY OF BRINGING UP CHILDREN.
THE DEBUT SHOW WILL BE BROADCAST VIA RTHK-l’S NEWSRAMA FROM 5.30 PM TO 6 PM EVERY FRIDAY FROM JULY 16 TO SEPTEMBER 24 AND ON OCTOBER 3.
TO PROMOTE THE HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION CONCEPT, A MOBILE EXHIBITION VAN WILL VISIT VARIOUS DISTRICTS AND PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES (KWUN TONG ON JULY 5; WAH FU ESTATE, JULY 6; LUNG HANG ESTATE, SHA TIN, JULY 7; CHUN MAN COURT, OI MAN ESTATE, JULY 8; AND TUEN MUN > JULY 9).
DURING THE VISITS, "LIVE” AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION PROGRAMMES WILL BE HELD AND PRIZES WILL BE AWARDED FOR THE BEST HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION "SLOGAN OF THE DAY".
THE CAMPAIGN WILL BE LAUNCHED ON MONDAY (JULY 5) AT AN OPENING CEREMONY AT RADIO TELEVISION HOUSE IN BROADCAST DRIVE.
OFFICIATING WILL BE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HOME-SCHOOL CO-OPERATION COMMITTEE, MR TIK CHI-YUEN; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PROFESSIONAL TEACHERS’ UNION, MR CHEUNG MAN-KWONG; AND THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (SERVICES), MRS GRACE YUNG.
NOTE:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY WHICH WILL BE HELD AT RADIO TELEVISION HOUSE, 30 BROADCAST DRIVE, KOWLOON TONG, AT 2.45 PM ON MONDAY (JULY 5).
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CALL TO TEAR DOWN WALL OF PREJUDICE AGAINST AIDS PATIENTS *****
THE COUNCIL FOR THE AIDS TRUST FUND TODAY (FRIDAY) APPROVED NINE APPLICATIONS FOR EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS TO PATIENTS INFECTED BY HIV THROUGH TRANSFUSION OF BLOOD AND BLOOD PRODUCTS IN HONG KONG PRIOR TO AUGUST 1985.
"THE AMOUNT OF PAYMENTS TOTALS OVER $5 MILLION," SAID COUNCIL CHAIRMAN, PROFESSOR DAVID TODD. "THIS BRINGS THE TOTAL PAYMENTS SO FAR APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL TO OVER $25 MILLION."
/OF THE
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OF THE NINE APPLICATIONS, ONE WAS FROM A PATIENT WHO IS MARRIED BUT WITHOUT DEPENDENT CHILDREN; SEVEN WERE FROM SINGLE PERSONS; AND ONE WAS FROM THE FAMILY OF A PATIENT WHO HAD DIED.
MEANWHILE, PROFESSOR TODD SAID THE COUNCIL WAS AWARE THAT A NUMBER OF ORGANISATIONS WERE PLANNING PROJECTS TO PROVIDE MEDICAL/SUPPORT SERVICES FOR HIV PATIENTS AND TO EDUCATE THE PUBLIC ON THE PREVENTION OF THE DISEASE.
HE ADDED THAT THE COUNCIL WELCOMED APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS IN SUPPORT OF SUCH PROJECTS AND ENCOURAGED THESE ORGANISATIONS TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
AT THE MEETING TODAY, THE COUNCIL ALSO RECEIVED A REPORT FROM THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, ON THE OUTCOME OF THE NINTH INTERNATIONAL AIDS CONFERENCE WHICH WAS HELD IN BERLIN BETWEEN JUNE 7 AND 11 THIS YEAR.
MRS WONG ATTENDED THE CONFERENCE AS PART OF A 10-MEMBER HONG KONG DELEGATION.
COMMENTING ON THE REPORT, PROFESSOR TODD SAID: "WE ARE PLEASED THAT HONG KONG’S RECENT INITIATIVES ON AIDS HAVE BEEN WELL RECEIVED BY THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY. HOWEVER, THERE IS NO ROOM FOR COMPLACENCY.
"IN THE LIGHT OF WHAT WE HAVE HEARD, THE COUNCIL REAFFIRMS ITS COMMITMENT TO PROVIDING ADDITIONAL MEDICAL AND SUPPORT SERVICES TO THOSE WITH HIV/AIDS, AND TO PROMOTE PUBLIC EDUCATION.
"WE ARE FIGHTING A BATTLE ON TWO FRONTS: FIRSTLY, WE HAVE TO PERSUADE PEOPLE THAT AIDS IS A REAL THREAT THAT CAN BE COUNTERED BY TAKING SIMPLE PRECAUTIONS; AND SECONDLY, WE HAVE TO TEAR DOWN THE WALLS OF PREJUDICE AND DISCRIMINATION AGAINST THOSE WITH HIV/AIDS AND AGAINST THE MORE UNFORTUNATE MEMBERS OF OUR SOCIETY."
PROFESSOR TODD NOTED THAT THE MEDIA WHICH PLAYED SUCH AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN INFORMING AND SHAPING PUBLIC OPINION, COULD AND SHOULD PLAY A PROMINENT PART IN THIS PROCESS.
"THE EMERGING PATTERN OF AIDS TRANSMISSION THROUGH HETEROSEXUAL INTERCOURSE IS A MATTER OF CONCERN," SAID PROFESSOR TODD.
"WE AGREE WITH THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE THAT WE SHOULD FOCUS ESPECIALLY ON THE ROLE WHICH WOMEN CAN PLAY IN THE FIGHT AGAINST AIDS, BOTH AS SEX PARTNERS AND AS THE TRADITIONAL CARERS IN THE FAMILY AND GUARDIANS OF THE YOUNG," HE ADDED.
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FRIDAY, JULY 2, 1993
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NEW FORMULA TO CALCULATE RESOURCES OF LEGAL AID APPLICANTS *****
THE LEGAL AID {ASSESSMENT OF RESOURCES AND CONTRIBUTIONS) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993 COMES INTO OPERATION TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE AMOUNTS TO BE DEDUCTED BY THE DIRECTOR OF LEGAL AID IN COMPUTING THE DISPOSABLE INCOME OF A LEGAL AID APPLICANT ARE NOW LINKED TO THE STANDARD RATES FOR AN ABLE-BODIED ADULT UNDER THE NEWLY INTRODUCED COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE SCHEME.
FOR THE PURPOSE OF ASSESSING THE FINANCIAL ELIGIBILITY FOR THE GRANT OF LEGAL AID, THE DIRECTOR OF LEGAL AID DEDUCTS CERTAIN AMOUNTS FROM THE GROSS INCOME OF AN APPLICANT.
THE DEDUCTIBLE AMOUNTS USED TO BE LINKED TO THE BASIC RATES UNDER THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME ADMINISTERED BY THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE.
"THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME WAS REPLACED BY THE COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE SCHEME INTRODUCED BY THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE YESTERDAY," A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE REGULATION IS INTRODUCED TO ADAPT TO THIS CHANGE," HE ADDED.
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TRAVELLERS URGED TO GUARD AGAINST DISEASES ♦ * * * *
VISITORS TO AN EXHIBITION AT THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE THIS WEEKEND (JULY 3 AND 4) CAN OBTAIN INFORMATION ON HEALTHY TRAVELLING AND TIPS ON PREVENTING DANGEROUS DISEASES WHILE TRAVELLING ABROAD.
IN VIEW OF THE EVER-INCREASING NUMBER OF RESIDENTS TRAVELLING ABROAD, THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAS PARTICIPATED IN THE EXHIBITION.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID: "THE THEME OF OUR BOOTH IS HEALTHY TRAVELLING AND TRAVELLERS SHOULD BE CAREFUL AND LOOK OUT FOR SUCH DISEASES AS AIDS, MALARIA AND HEPATITIS."
PROFESSIONAL HEALTH STAFF WILL MAN THE BOOTH AND ANSWER QUESTIONS VISITORS MIGHT HAVE. VIDEO TAPES ON AIDS AND HEPATITIS WILL ALSO BE SHOWN.
THE BOOTH K3 IS LOCATED ON THE FIFTH FLOOR, HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE, WAN CHAI.
HANDY TRAVELLING TOWELS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO VISITORS.
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WATCH OUT FOR IMPOSTERS *****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) ADVISED COMPANY PROPRIETORS TO BE WATCHFUL FOR PEOPLE IMPERSONATING AS OFFICERS OF THE DEPARTMENT.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID A NUMBER OF COMPANIES HAD RECENTLY BEEN APPROACHED BY PEOPLE CLAIMING TO BE LABOUR OFFICERS AND ASKING FOR PARTICULARS OF THE COMPANIES.
HE EXPLAINED THAT DEPARTMENTAL OFFICERS MAKING ENQUIRIES WOULD ALWAYS MAKE KNOWN THEIR NAMES AND THE NAMES OF THEIR OFFICES.
’’OFFICERS CONDUCTING SITE INSPECTIONS HAVE BEEN INSTRUCTED TO IDENTIFY THEMSELVES BY PRODUCING THEIR WARRANT CARDS,’’ HE SAID.
"IF PROPRIETORS HAVE ANY DOUBT ABOUT A CALLER’S IDENTITY, THEY SHOULD ASK FOR HIS CONTACT TELEPHONE NUMBER OR ADDRESS FOR IDENTIFICATION PURPOSES.”
’’THEY SHOULD ALSO CHECK WITH THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT OR INFORM THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY IF THEY HAVE FURTHER DOUBTS," HE ADDED.
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TWO MORE DEPARTMENTS GOVERNED BY COMPLAINTS LAW
*****
THE OFFICE OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY (OFTA) AND THE GOVERNMENT FLYING SERVICE (GFS) HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN THE LIST OF DEPARTMENTS AND ORGANISATIONS GOVERNED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS ORDINANCE UNDER AN AMENDMENT ORDER MADE BY THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL.
THIS WAS ANNOUNCED BY A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN WHEN COMMENTING ON THE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS ORDINANCE (AMENDMENT OF SCHEDULE 1) (NO. 2) ORDER 1993 GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE SPOKESMAN SAID AS A RESULT OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF OFTA WITH EFFECT FROM JULY 1, AND OF GFS WHICH ASSUMED ALL THE FUNCTIONS OF THE FORMER ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE, IT WAS NECESSARY TO AMEND THE LIST TO ENABLE THE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS TO DEAL WITH COMPLAINTS RELATING TO THE TWO DEPARTMENTS.
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NEW ROADS FOR TSEUNG KWAN O PROPOSED ******
THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT’S SOUTH EAST NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT OFFICE HAS PROPOSED TO CONSTRUCT SEVERAL ROADS IN HANG HAU, SAI KUNG TO PROVIDE VEHICULAR AND PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENTS IN THE AREA.
THE ROADS WILL ALSO PROVIDE A MORE DIRECT TRANSPORT LINK BETWEEN THE TSEUNG KWAN 0 TUNNEL AND THE INDUSTRIAL AREAS AS WELL AS THE LANDFILLS IN THE SOUTHERN END OF THE NEW TOWN.
THE WORKS, WHICH FORM PART OF THE CONTINUING PROGRAMME FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TSEUNG KWAN O NEW TOWN, WILL INCLUDE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW ACCESS ROADS, FOOTBRIDGES, SUBWAYS, FOOTPATHS, CYCLE TRACKS, CYCLE PARKS AND AMENITY AREAS.
THE WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO BEGIN IN MARCH NEXT YEAR FOR COMPLETION IN MID-1996.
MEANWHILE, THE DEVELOPMENT OFFICE IS ALSO PLANNING TO BUILD A NORTHERN RAMP FOR FOOTBRIDGE ACROSS PO LAM ROAD NORTH, OUTSIDE PO LAM ESTATE.
THE RAMP WILL CONNECT WITH THE FOOTBRIDGE AND PROVIDE A SAFE AND CONVENIENT ACCESS BETWEEN THE EASTBOUND BUS BAY AND PO LAM ESTATE.
THE WORK WILL START IN MARCH NEXT YEAR FOR COMPLETION IN MID-1995.
NOTICES OF THE PROPOSED ROADWORKS IN HANG HAU AND PO LAM ROAD WERE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
PLANS SHOWING THE PROPOSED ROADWORKS IN BOTH AREAS CAN BE SEEN DURING OFFICE HOURS AT:
* THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG; AND
* SAI KUNG DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE AND SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICE, THIRD AND SECOND FLOOR RESPECTIVELY, SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 34 CHAN MAN STREET, SAI KUNG.
ANY PERSON OBJECTING TO THE PROPOSALS SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT AT THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, CENTRAL, NOT LATER THAN AUGUST 31, 1993, DESCRIBING HIS INTEREST AND MANNER IN WHICH HE WILL BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSAL.
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FRIDAY, JULY 2, 1993
BABY BORN ON BOARD HELICOPTER *****
AS A PROFESSIONAL FLYING RESCUER FOR 10 YEARS, MR DON L SMITH DEFINITELY HAS A WHOLE RANGE OF EXCITING STORIES TO TELL ABOUT HIS JOB, FROM SEARCH AND RESCUE IN STORMY WEATHER TO FIGHTING ROARING HILL FIRES.
BUT TODAY HE HAS A VERY DIFFERENT KIND OF STORY: A BABY WAS BORN ON BOARD HIS HELICOPTER.
IT HAPPENED WHEN MR SMITH, CHIEF PILOT (HELICOPTER) OF THE GOVERNMENT FLYING SERVICE (GFS) WAS AIR-LIFTING A PREGNANT VIETNAMESE WOMAN FROM TAI A CHAU VIETNAMESE REFUGEE CAMP TO THE BRITISH MILITARY HOSPITAL THIS (FRIDAY) MORNING.
"IT’S A DELIGHTFUL SURPRISE," HE SAID, ADDING THAT IT WAS AN UNUSUAL EXPERIENCE FOR HIM.
AN ESCORTING NURSE DID THE TOUGH DELIVERY WORK DURING THE EIGHT-MINUTE TRIP TO THE HOSPITAL. THE WOMAN, NGUYEN CHI RI, WAS LATER ADMITTED TO QUEEN ELIZABETH HOSPITAL IN GOOD CONDITION. HER BABY, STILL TO BE NAMED, WEIGHED 1.56 KG.
AIRCREWMAN, MR RAYMOND CHANG, WHO ACCOMPANIED THE COUPLE AND THE NURSE ON BOARD, SPENT MOST OF HIS TIME SOOTHING THE WOMAN. HE SAID HE ALSO HELPED IN THE DELIVERY.
"IT’S THE FIRST TIME THAT I HAVE DONE THIS KIND OF ’RESCUE’ JOB," MR CHANG SAID.
SHARING THE JOY OF THE COUPLE, THE FLYERS SAID THEY DID NOT MIND GOING THROUGH THIS KIND OF "INTERESTING EXPERIENCE" AGAIN.
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TSAT TSZ MUI ROAD CLOSURE PROPOSED ♦ * ♦ ♦ ♦
THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT HAS PROPOSED TO PERMANENTLY CLOSE PART OF TSAT TSZ MUI ROAD IN NORTH POINT TO FACILITATE THE REDEVELOPMENT OF CHINA MOTOR BUS DEPOT INTO A COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX.
THE REDEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS ENVISAGE THAT THE SECTION OF TSAT TSZ MUI ROAD BISECTING THE DEPOT ON INLAND LOT NO. 7178 AND INLAND LOT NO. 5532 BE CLOSED AND INCLUDED IN A NEW LOT TO BE GRANTED TO THE OWNER BY WAY OF A SURRENDER/REGRANT.
THE SECTION WILL ONLY BE CLOSED AFTER TANNER ROAD IS WIDENED.
A NOTICE CONCERNING THE PROPOSED ROAD CLOSURE AND ITS RELATED PLAN WERE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE PLAN AND SCHEME CAN BE SEEN AT:
* THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICES CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
/*THE DISTRICT ......
FRIDAY, JULY 2, 1993
14
* THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, HONG KONG EAST, 19TH FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE, 130 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI; AND
* THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, EASTERN LAW COURTS BUILDING, 29 TAI ON STREET, SAI WAN HO, HONG KONG.
ANY PERSON OBJECTING TO THE PROPOSED ROAD CLOSURE SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG BEFORE AUGUST 31, DESCRIBING HIS INTEREST AND THE MANNER IN WHICH HE WILL BE AFFECTED.
- - 0 - -
HK YOUTH SYMPHONIC BAND AUSTRALIA TOUR IN CONCERT *****
THE MUSIC OFFICE’S 1993 HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONIC BAND AUSTRALIA TOUR WILL STAGE A PRE-TOUR CONCERT AT THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS ON AUGUST 2.
THE 40 MEMBERS WILL FLY TO AUSTRALIA ON AUGUST 6.
THEY WILL GIVE A SERIES OF PERFORMANCES IN BRISBANE AND SYDNEY.
AS PART OF THE OFFICE’S INTERNATIONAL YOUTH EXCHANGE PROGRAMME, IT IS HOPED THAT THEIR PERFORMANCES WILL PROMOTE FRIENDSHIP AND CULTURE EXCHANGE BETWEEN HONG KONG AND AUSTRALIA.
THE HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONIC BAND WAS FORMED IN 1978. IN ITS 15 YEARS' HISTORY, THE BAND HAS SUCCESSFULLY NURTURED SEVERAL GENERATIONS OF YOUNG MUSICIANS, THEREBY CREATING A WIDER INTEREST ON BAND MUSIC IN HONG KONG.
UNDER THE BATON OF ITS MUSIC DIRECTOR, MR FUNG WING-KIT, THE SYMPHONIC BAND WILL PLAY GARRY FAGON’S "AFTOR MOUNTAIN OVERTURE" AND JAY CHATTAWAY’S "SONGBIRD" AND JERRY NOWAK’S "VISIONS OPUS 1".
MEMBERS OF THE AUSTRALIA TOUR WERE SELECTED FROM MORE THAN 60 CANDIDATES IN MARCH THIS YEAR BY THE MUSIC OFFICE.
SINCE THEN THEY HAVE BEEN UNDERGOING INTENSIVE TRAINING AND WILL PARTICIPATE IN A TAILOR-MADE TRAINING PROGRAMME IN THE 1993 HONG KONG YOUTH MUSIC CAMP.
TICKETS OF THE CONCERT, WHICH WILL BE HELD IN THE ACADEMY’S DRAMA THEATRE AT 8 PM, ARE NOW ON SALE AT $30 EACH AT THE URBTIX CENTRE. HALF-PRICE TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FOR FULL-TIME STUDENTS AND SENIOR CITIZENS AGED 60 OR ABOVE.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 582 5314.
- - 0 - -
/15
FRIDAY, JULY 2, 1993
15
RETAIL SALES FIGURES FOR APRIL ******
THE VALUE OF TOTAL RETAIL SALES IN APRIL, ESTIMATED AT $13.2 BILLION, INCREASED 12% WHEN COMPARED WITH THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR, ACCORDING TO THE STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
AFTER DISCOUNTING THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES OVER THE SAME PERIOD, TOTAL RETAIL SALES ROSE BY 9% IN VOLUME TERMS.
THE INCREASE WAS MAINLY ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE GROWTH IN SPENDING ON CONSUMER DURABLE GOODS OTHER THAN MOTOR VEHICLES, CLOTHING, JEWELLERY AND WATCHES.
SALES OF CONSUMER DURABLES OTHER THAN MOTOR VEHICLES REGISTERED THE LARGEST INCREASE IN APRIL COMPARED WITH A YEAR AGO, 28% IN VALUE AND 26% IN VOLUME.
SALES OF CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR WENT UP BY 28% IN VALUE AND 18% IN VOLUME, WHILE SALES OF JEWELLERY, WATCHES AND CLOCKS, AND VALUABLE GIFTS ROSE BY 20% IN VALUE AND 24% IN VOLUME.
SALES OF FUELS ALSO INCREASED 15% IN VALUE AND 9% IN VOLUME.
MODERATE GROWTH WAS RECORDED FOR SALES OF SUPERMARKETS, 10% IN VALUE AND 3% IN VOLUME, AND FOR SALES OF FOODSTUFFS IN OTHER RETAIL OUTLETS, 5% IN VALUE AND 4% IN VOLUME.
ON THE OTHER HAND, SALES OF DEPARTMENT STORES DROPPED BY 1% IN VOLUME, DESPITE AN INCREASE OF 6% IN VALUE. SALES OF MOTOR VEHICLES REGISTERED A DECREASE OF 21% IN VALUE AND 27% IN VOLUME.
COMPARING THE PERIOD JANUARY TO APRIL 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, TOTAL RETAIL SALES ROSE BY 11% IN VALUE AND 7% IN VOLUME.
COMPARED WITH MARCH 1993, AND BEARING IN MIND THAT THIS COMPARISON MAY BE AFFECTED BY SEASONAL FACTORS, TOTAL RETAIL SALES IN APRIL 1993 DECREASED BY 3% IN VALUE AND 5% IN VOLUME.
THE VOLUME OF RETAIL SALES IS DERIVED FROM THE VALUE OF RETAIL SALES AFTER ADJUSTING FOR PRICE CHANGES. THE RELEVANT COMPONENTS OF THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX ARE USED AS DEFLATORS.
THE REPORT CONTAINING THE ANALYSIS OF THE APRIL RESULTS IS NOW ON SALE AT $2 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, 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 ON TEL 802 1258.
/TABLE 1 .......
16
FRIDAY, JULY 2, 1993
TABLE 1 : TOTAL RETAIL SALES
Total Retail Sales for April 1993 (Provisional Figure) = HK$13,214.3 million
for March 1993 (Revised Figure) = HKt13,577.2 million
TABLE 2 ; VALUE AND VOLUME INDICES OF RETAIL SALES FOR MARCH 1993 AND APRIL 1993 (Monthly average of Oct. 89 - Sept. 90 = 100)
Item Index of Retai I Sales March 1993 Apr i I 1993 Apr i I compar March 1993 ed with 1993 Apr i I compar Apr i I 1993 ed with 1992 Jan-Apr. 1993 compared with Jan-Apr. 1992
(Revised figures) (Provisional figures) Points % Points % Points %
(A) FOR ALL RETAIL OUTLETS
Value 144.6 140.7 -3.9 -2.7 ♦ 15.5 ♦ 12.4 +14.9 +11.4
Volume 125.3 119.3 -5.9 -4.7 +9.6 +8.8 +8.7 +7.4
(B) BY TYPE OF RETAIL OUTLET
Foodstuffs, alcoholic Value 119.6 120.6 ♦ 1.0 +0.8 +5.2 +4.5 ♦6.1 +5.3
drinks and tobacco Volume 98.7 98.2 -0.5 -0.5 ♦3.6 +3.8 +1.8 +1.9
(other than supermarkets)
Supermarkets $ Value 133.1 128.5 -4.6 -3.5 ♦11.8 +10.1 +10.2 +8.3
Volume 103.4 99.2 -4.2 -4.1 +3.0 +3.2 +1.2 +1.2
Fuels Value 128.4 133.3 +4.9 +3.8 +17.5 ♦ 15.2 +8.8 +7.3
Volume 94.9 98.2 ♦3.3 ♦3.5 ♦7.9 +8.7 +2.3 +2.5
Clothing, footwear and Value 171.0 168.1 -2.9 -1.7 +36.4 +27.6 +40.6 +29.0
allied products Volume 139.9 128.7 -11.2 -8.0 +19.1 +17.5 +23.6 +19.2
Consumer durable goods * Value 171.4 158.2 -13.2 -7.7 +7.0 +4.6 +16.5 +11.1
Volume 150.5 139.5 -11.0 -7.3 ♦3.4 +2.5 ♦10.9 +8.1
- Motor vehicles Value 181.8 135.2 -46.6 -25.6 -36.3 -21.2 -2.1 -1.1
and parts Volume 145.6 106.6 -38.9 -26.8 -38.7 -26.6 -11.3 -7.2
- Consumer durable Value 163.9 174.8 ♦ 10.9 +6.7 +38.3 +28.0 ♦29.9 +24.0
goods other than Volume 154.1 163.2 +9.2 +6.0 ♦33.8 +26.1 +27.0 +22.8
motor vehicles and parts
Department stores Value 118.6 117.5 -1.2 -1.0 ♦7.1 +6.4 ♦12.0 +9.6
Volume 97.6 93.0 -4.5 -4.7 -0.9 -1.0 ♦2.7 +2.4
Jewellery, watches Value 155.5 141.4 -14.1 -9.1 +23.9 +20.3 +14.4 +11.2
and clocks, and Volume 165.6 147.9 -17.7 -10.7 +28.4 +23.7 +20.7 +15.8
valuable gifts
Other consumer goods Value 140.1 149.9 +9.8 +7.0 +22.1 +17.3 ♦9.8 +7.2
not elsewhere Volume 116.5 124.0 +7.5 +6.5 +12.6 + 11.3 ♦1.3 +1.1
classified
NOTES : 0 Not including supermarkets operating in department stores.
* This covers both "Motor vehicles and parts" and "Consumer durable goods other than motor vehicles and parts".
ERI DAY, JULY 2, 199 3
17
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,650
REVERSAL OF LAF +150
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,800
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -1,050
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,750
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.4 *-0.2* 2.7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.64 PCT 14 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.46 3.99
1 MONTH 3.47 PCT 17 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.67 4.16
3 MONTHS 3.38 PCT 20 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.69 4.35
6 MONTHS 3.54 PCT 23 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.69 4.54
12 MONTHS 3.89 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 16,056 MN
CLOSED 2 JULY 1993
---------0-----------
Received by PRO o„ - 6 M ®3
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, JULY 3, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
HURD’S PEKING VISIT WORTHWHILE TN FACE OF PROGRESS TN TALKS . 1
IMPORTANCE OF FINANCIAL SECTOR TO GROW .......................... 2
IMPORTANCE OF HUMAN RIGHTS EMPHASISED ........................... 3
EFFICIENT SERVICE PROMISED TN FILM CLASSIFICATION ............... 5
LUCKY CAR REGISTRATION MARKS SOLD BY AUCTION .................... 6
LOCAL CO-OPERATIVE MOVEMENT REMAINS STRONG ...................... 7
NORTH DISTRICT SYP BEGINS ....................................... 8
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EzXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
8
SATURDAY, JULY 3, 1993
1 -
HURD’S PEKING VISIT WORTHWHILE IN FACE OF PROGRESS IN TALKS *****
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) SUFFICIENT PROGRESS HAD BEEN MADE IN THE SINO-BRITISH TALKS TO MAKE IT WORTHWHILE FOR THE FOREIGN SECRETARY, MR DOUGLAS HURD, TO VISIT PEKING NEXT WEEK.
MR HURD WILL TALK TO THE CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTER MR QIAN QTCHEN WHOM HE HAD NOT MET SINCE LAST SEPTEMBER.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AT THE AIRPORT AFTER RETURNING FROM LONDON, THE GOVERNOR SAID THE FOREIGN SECRETARY WOULD ALSO UNDERLINE SOME OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT’S VIEWS ABOUT THE WAY TO BRING ABOUT THE TALKS TO A SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION.
’’WE’RE NEGOTIATING IN GOOD FAITH. WE’RE NOT TALKING ABOUT DEADLINES, BUT THERE ARE SOME INESCAPABLE REALITIES ABOUT THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR 1994/95 WHICH MEANS THAT WE WILL HAVE TO MAKE MORE PROGRESS, MORE RAPID PROGRESS IN THE NEXT PHASE OF THE TALKS,” HE SAID.
ON HIS TRIP TO LONDON, THE GOVERNOR SAID: "MINISTERS HAVE ACCEPTED OUR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE NEXT PHASE OF OUR TALKS WITH THE CHINESE.
"THEY HAVE REAFFIRMED THEIR SUPPORT FOR THE PRINCIPLES WHICH UNDERPINNED OUR POSITION IN THE TALKS, FIRST OF ALL OUR COMMITMENT TO ESTABLISHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS WHICH ARE OPEN AND FAIR AND ACCEPTABLE TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
"AND SECOND OUR COMMITMENT TO A GENUINE THROUGH TRAIN WITH CLEAR OBJECTIVE CRITERIA FOR THOSE LEGISLATORS WHO ARE ELECTED IN 1995 N THAT THERE HAS NOT BEEN A MILLIMETRE OF CHANGE IN OUR POSITION," HE ADDED.
"THE PRIME MINISTER AND THE FOREIGN SECRETARY ALSO ACCEPTED OUR RECOMMENDATION THAT THE FOREIGN SECRETARY SHOULD VISIT PEKING ON JULY 8 AND 9,” HE SAID.
"IT’S PARTICULARLY USEFUL FOR US, FOR EXAMPLE, TO BE ABLE TO MEET THE CHAIRMAN OF THE FOREIGN AFFAIRS SELECT COMMITTEE AND SPEAK TO LABOUR SPOKESMAN ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, AND TO HAVE IT RE-ESTABLISHED AGAIN THAT THERE’S CROSS-PARTY SUPPORT AT WESTMINSTER FOR THE APPROACH THAT WE HAVE TAKEN IN HONG KONG," HE NOTED.
ASKED IF HE COULD PUT IN PLACE THE ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENTS AS SET OUT IN HIS POLICY ADDRESS, THE GOVERNOR SAID: ”MY IMPRESSTON IS THAT THE MOOD OF PEOPLE IN HONG KONG IS THAT WE SHOULD GIVE THE NEGOTIATIONS EVERY CHANCE OF SUCCESS AND GO ON WITH THE NEGOTIATIONS AS LONG AS WE REASONABLY CAN.
"AS I SAID IN LONDON, IT’S OUR SINCERE PREFERENCE TO REACH ARRANGEMENTS TN NEGOTIATIONS WHICH WERE ACCEPTABLE TN HONG KONG AND TO DO SO BY AGREEMENT WITH CHINA.
"IF WE DON’T REACH AGREEMENT WITH CHINA, THEN WE WILL HAVE TO GO AHEAD WITH LEGISLATION BECAUSE WE ARE SOVEREIGN AND WE HAVE TO PUT THE ARRANGEMENTS IN PLACE," HE SAID.
0 - -
/2
SATURDAY, JULY 3, 1993
2
IMPORTANCE OF FINANCIAL SECTOR TO GROW
THE RELATIVE IMPORTANCE OF THE FINANCIAL SECTOR OF HONG KONG WILL CONTINUE TO GROW AS THE STRUCTURAL CHANGE OF THE TERRITORY CONTINUES IN THE NEXT DECADE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY, MR JOSEPH YAM, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING AT A SYMPOSIUM ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC JOURNAL, MR YAM NOTED THAT THE LOCAL FINANCIAL SECTOR, FROM SERVICING PRINCIPALLY HONG KONG 10 YEARS AGO, WAS NOW INCREASINGLY SERVICING CHINA, AND THE COUNTER PARTIES WITH WHICH CHINA TRADED.
"HONG KONG’S FINANCIAL SECTOR HAS BECOME TRULY INTERNATIONAL AND HONG KONG IS PLAYING AN IMPORTANT ROLE AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE," HE SAID.
HONG KONG PROVIDES, AND PROMISES TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE, THE BEST AND MOST CONVENIENT LOCATION FOR INVESTORS EFFECTIVELY TO BE IN CHINA WHILE NOT DIRECTLY EXPOSED TO THE RISKS, HE SAID.
"OUR RULES OF THE GAME IN HONG KONG ARE CLEAR. OUR MARKETS ARE LIQUID. OUR LEGAL SYSTEM IS FAMILIAR TO INVESTORS. AND THERE ARE MANY MORE COMFORTING PROVISIONS CLEARLY WRITTEN INTO THE JOINT DECLARATION AND THE BASIC LAW," MR YAM SAID.
HE SAID THE OVERALL CHALLENGE FOR HONG KONG IN THE NEXT DECADE AND BEYOND WAS FOR ALL CONCERNED TO UPHOLD ALL THIS. ANY FAILURE TO DO SO COULD LEAD TO AN IRREPARABLE EROSION OF HONG KONG’S COMPARATIVE ADVANTAGE.
WHILE CONCEDING THAT HONG KONG WOULD FACE INCREASING COMPETITION FROM OTHER CENTRES, PARTICULARLY THOSE INSIDE CHINA. MR YAM WAS OPTIMISTIC THAT THE TERRITORY WOULD MAINTAIN ITS STATUS.
THE CRITICAL MASS OF AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL AND TRADING NETWORK IS ALREADY HERE, WITH THE PRESENCE OF THE MAJORITY OF THE LARGEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS IN THE WORLD, SUBPORTED BY A SOPHISTICATED BUSINESS AND PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE.
"I THINK FOR SOME TIME AFTER 1997 HONG KONG WILL STILL BE THE ONLY TRULY INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE LOCATED IN CHINA," HE SAID.
NOTING THAT THE HONG KONG DOLLAR IS INCREASINGLY PLAYING THE ROLES OF MONEY AND BEING USED AS A STORE OF VALUE IN CHINA, MR YAM SAID CLOSE CONTACTS WERE MAINTAINED WITH THE PEOPLE’S BANK OF CHINA.
THIS IS WITH A VIEW TO APPRECIATING THE BACKGROUND OF SUCH DEVELOPMENTS AND ENABLING THE AUTHORITY, WHEN NECESSARY, TO COME UP WITH THE APPROPRIATE MONETARY POLICY RESPONSE IN THE BEST INTEREST OF HONG KONG.
HE SAID THE INTENTION OF IMPLEMENTING A PROGRAMME OF ECONOMIC REFORM AND LIBERALISATION IN CHINA WAS ADMIRABLE.
/BUT HE .......
SATURDAY, JULY 3, 1993
3
BUT HE POINTED OUT THAT THE FREEING UP OF THE HITHERTO CONTROLLED ECONOMY WOULD HAVE INFLATIONARY CONSEQUENCES FOR THE ECONOMY AS A WHOLE.
HE SUGGESTED A MARKET-ORIENTED APPROACH TO MARCO MONETARY MANAGEMENT IN CHINA TO FACILITATE THE ECONOMIC REFORMS AND TO TACKLE THE ACCOMPANYING PROBLEMS.
ON THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY, MR YAM SAID THE BODY HAD RECEIVED A VERY WARM WELCOME IN THE CENTRAL BANKING FRATERNITY SINCE ITS ESTABLISHMENT.
"I SEE OUR EMPHASIS BEING PLACED MORE ON ENSURING THAT WE PERFORM OUR DUTIES COMPETENTLY, AND ON BUILDING UP THE CREDIBILITY OF THE INSTITUTION AND THE POLICIES WE PURSUE," HE SAID.
TO FILL THE GAPS IN THE CAPITAL MARKETS, MR YAM SAID THE EXCHANGE FUND BILLS PROGRAMME WAS INTRODUCED AT THE BEGINNING OF 1990.
"WE HAVE GRADUALLY EXTENDED THAT PROGRAMME AND ARE NOW ALSO ISSUING TWO-YEAR EXCHANGE FUND NOTES.
"I HOPE SOON WE SHALL BE IN A POSITION TO START THE ISSUE OF THREE-YEAR NOTES.
"WE SHALL ALSO BE INTRODUCING LEGISLATION TO FACILITATE THE ISSUE AND CLEARING OF DEBT INSTRUMENTS IN PAPERLESS FORM SO THAT THE CENTRAL CUSTODY SYSTEM THAT WE HAVE BEEN DEVELOPING IN-HOUSE IN THE HKMA CAN BE PUT TO USE BY PRIVATE SECTOR ISSUERS.
THIS WILL FORM PART OF THE BANKING AMENDMENT BILL TO BE INTRODUCED SHORTLY INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR YAM SAID.
------0-------
IMPORTANCE OF HUMAN RIGHTS EMPHASISED * * * * *
EXECUTIVE COUNCILLOR, MISS ROSANNA WONG, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT IN THE COURSE OF ENFORCING LAW AND ORDER, A PROPER BALANCE SHOULD BE STRUCK BETWEEN THE PROTECTION OF INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS AND THE INTEREST OF THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE ANNUAL CIVIC EDUCATION EXHIBITION, SHE SAID HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION SHOULD DISPEL DOUBTS CHERISHED BY SOME THAT THE HONG KONG BILL OF RIGHTS ORDINANCE (BOR) ENACTED IN JUNE 1991 WAS SOMETHING THAT COULD CHALLENGE SOCIAL ORDER.
IN THIS RESPECT, SHE HOPED THAT THE CPCE, WHICH ORGANISES THE EXHIBITION, AS WELL AS OTHER VOLUNTARY AGENCIES, WOULD WORK TOGETHER TO SPREAD THE CORRECT HUMAN RIGHTS MESSAGES.
AS REGARDS THE COMMITTEE’S WORK, SHE SAID: "I AM DELIGHTED TO LEARN THAT IT HAS PLACED EMPHASIS ON YOUTHS AND STUDENTS IN ITS PROMOTION OF AWARENESS ON HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE RULE OF LAW.”
/CITING EXAMPLES .......
9
SATURDAY, JULY 3, 1993
4
CITING EXAMPLES, SHE SAID A HUMAN RIGHTS TEACHING KIT WOULD BE READY FOR USE IN SCHOOLS SOMETIME IN SEPTEMBER OR OCTOBER, AND EXCHANGES WITH HEADMASTERS ON THE KEY TO IMPLEMENT CIVIC EDUCATION WERE BEING PLANNED.
ADDRESSING THE GATHERING, CPCE CHAIRMAN DR DANIEL TSE SAID TO ENSURE HONG KONG’S FUTURE STABILITY AND PROSPERITY, THE BASIC RIGHTS OF CITIZENS SHOULD BE GUARANTEED BY LAW.
HE ADDED THAT FOR THE BOR TO BE IMPLEMENTED EFFECTIVELY, PEOPLE SHOULD UNDERSTAND ITS CONTENT AND THE CONCEPTS INVOLVED.
TO THIS END, THE COMMITTEE HAS CHOSEN HUMAN RIGHTS TO BE THE THEME OF THE EXHIBITION, AND HOPES TO ADOPT INTERESTING AND LIVELY FORMATS IN TERRITORY-WIDE AND DISTRICT LEVEL PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES TO AROUSE PEOPLE’S AWARENESS.
HE ALSO HIGHLIGHTED THE MAIN ATTRACTIONS OF THE 1992/93 OUTSTANDING CIVIC EDUCATION PROJECT AWARDS.
THE WINNING PROJECT - AN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FESTIVAL ORGANISED BY A JOINT CONFERENCE OF COMMUNITY GROUPS IN KWONG YUEN, SHA TIN - WON THE FIRST PRIZE BECAUSE IT HAD INVOLVED BOTH FAMILIES AND YOUNGSTERS AND ITS PROGRAMMES HAD BENEFITED A LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE.
THE FIRST RUNNER-UP PROJECT - A HUMAN RIGHTS PROMOTIONAL CAMPAIGN STAGED BY A WOMEN’S SOCIETY - FOCUSED ON THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN AND THEIR LEGAL PRIVILEGES.
THE "TEENAGED HUMAN RIGHTS WORLD” ORGANISED BY THE BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ CLUBS ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG, WHICH WAS THE SECOND RUNNER-UP, HELPED STIMULATE YOUNGSTERS’ CONCERN TOWARDS THE TERRITORY’S HUMAN RIGHTS CONDITIONS.
ALL THREE PROJECTS ARE NOW ON DISPLAY AT THE EXHIBITION WHICH WILL LAST UNTIL TUESDAY (JULY 6) AT THE SPECIAL EXHIBITION HALL, HONG KONG SCIENCE MUSEUM IN TSIM SHA TSUI EAST.
OTHER EXHIBITS INCLUDE CARTOONS, TELE-LINE, REFERENCE BOOKS, A HANDS-ON COMPUTER QUIZ, DRAMA SHOWS ENTITLED "PAPA AND MAMA" AND CONTINUOUS VIDEO SHOWS AND SLIDES ON THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS.
THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SUEN, PRESENTED SOUVENIRS TO SPONSORS OF THE EXHIBITION.
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/5.........
SATURDAY, JULY 3, 1993
5
EFFICIENT SERVICE PROMISED IN FILM CLASSIFICATION *****
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE PROMISED EFFICIENT, COURTEOUS AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE IN FILM CLASSIFICATION BY THE TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY (TELA).
TELA TODAY (SATURDAY) PUBLISHED ITS PERFORMANCE PLEDGE ON FILM CLASSIFICATION WITH THE TARGET TO SERVE THE ENTERTAINMENT INTERESTS OF THE COMMUNITY.
A FILM VIEWING SESSION IN RESPECT OF A FILM SUBMITTED FOR CLASSIFICATION WILL BE ASSIGNED WITHIN TWO WEEKS FROM THE DATE OF NOTICE OF SUBMISSION.
A DECISION ON THE CLASSIFICATION OF A FILM WILL BE GIVEN WITHIN 10 WORKING DAYS FROM THE ASSIGNED DATE OF VIEWING SESSION.
A DECISION ON THE EXEMPTION OF A FILM FROM CLASSIFICATION WILL BE GIVEN WITHIN FOUR WORKING DAYS FROM THE DATE OF RECEIPT OF A SUBMISSION.
"THIS IS MUCH SHORTER THAN THE STATUTORY LIMITS OF 21 DAYS AND SEVEN DAYS RESPECTIVELY STIPULATED IN THE FILM CENSORSHIP ORDINANCE AND THE AIM IS TO PROVIDE AN EFFICIENT SERVICE TO THE FILM INDUSTRY," A SPOKEMSAN FOR TELA SAID.
MOREOVER, ENQUIRIES WILL BE DEALT WITH EFFICIENTLY AND AN INTERIM REPLY WILL BE GIVEN IF A SUBSTANTIVE REPLY CANNOT BE GIVEN IMMEDIATELY.
TO TIE IN WITH THIS PERFORMANCE PLEDGE, A TOTAL OF 5,000 COPIES OF A LEAFLET IN ENGLISH AND CHINESE HAD BEEN PREPARED TO ENABLE MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND THE FILM INDUSTRY TO KNOW WHAT TYPES OF SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE IN FILM CLASSIFICATION, THE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS STIPULATED, AND THE PROPER CHANNELS TO WHICH COMPLAINTS AND ENQUIRIES CAN BE DIRECTED IN CASE OF THE STANDARDS NOT BEING MET.
"COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS AS TO THE WAY IN WHICH THE SERVICES ARE DELIVERED AND HOW THEY CAN BE FURTHER IMPROVED ARE WELCOME," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE OBJECTIVE OF OUR PLEDGE IS TO IMPROVE THE SERVICES DELIVERED BY ENHANCING OPENNESS AND ACCOUNTABILITY AS WELL AS BY DEVELOPING A CLIENT-BASED CULTURE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PLEDGE WILL BE MONITORED INTERNALLY. FEEDBACK WILL ALSO BE COLLECTED FROM THE FILM INDUSTRY THROUGH REGULAR LIAISON WITH THE MOTION PICTURE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION, THE HK THEATRES ASSOCIATION AND THE DIRECTORS GUILD," HE ADDED.
LAST YEAR, TELA EXAMINED ABOUT 1,200 FILMS UNDER THE THREE-TIER FILM CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM.
COPIES OF THE LEAFLET CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE OFFICE OF TELA AT 5 GLOUCESTER ROAD, REVENUE TOWER, 39TH FLOOR, WAN CHAI.
- - 0----------
/6 ........
SATURDAY, JULY 3, 1993
6 -
LUCKY CAR REGISTRATION MARKS SOLD BY AUCTION *****
FIFTY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WERE PUT UP FOR AUCTION THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING FOR A TOTAL OF $3,320,000 WHICH WILL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY PURPOSES AFTER DEDUCTION OF EXPENSES INCURRED.
THE AUCTION, HELD AT THE LECTURE HALL OF THE SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, SAW THE REGISTRATION MARK FM88 FETCH THE HIGHEST PRICE OF $700,000.
ANOTHER REGISTRATION MARK 105 WAS SOLD AT THE SECOND HIGHEST PRICE OF $410,000 WHILE THE LOWEST PRICE WAS $1,000 FOR FF7971.
FOLLOWING ARE THE RESULTS OF TODAY’S AUCTION:
$ $ $ $
FE8889 17,000 FF448 42,000 FF298 34,000 FF219 20,000
FF887 30,000 CC8138 72,000 BB1480 12,000 FF997 30,000
*CA123 102,000 *FM868 112,000 *FJ2828 115,000 *FK9 120,000
FF1128 26,000 FF389 45,000 FF388 120,000 AJ4200 14,000
FF991 30,000 XX229 150,000 FF1283 14,000 FF366 64,000
AC3882 26,000 FF138 200,000 CK1163 11,000 FF105 26,000
FF918 20,000 FF2881 42,000 FF320 49,000 FD9876 8,000
*FL4 60,000 *105 410,000 *FM88 700,000 *AL15 170,000
BB667 22,000 FF899 50,000 FF811 65,000 FF932 38,000
FF9388 20,000 FF108 82,000 FF889 50,000 DD2937 4,000
FF644 10,000 FF8611 4,000 *BC45 28,000 FF640 8,000
CM847 6,000 FF7971 1,000 XX7187 20,000 *FK1122 18,000
CB8602 2,000 FF5110 WITHDRAW
* SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION 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 197TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973, BROUGHT THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF MONEY REALISED SO FAR TO 205,087,905.
THERE WAS NO BIDDER FOR FF5110. THIS VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK WLLL BE ASSIGNED TO THE ORIGINAL APPLICANT.
/7.........
SATURDAY, JULY 3, 1993
LOCAL CO-OPERATIVE MOVEMENT REMAINS STRONG *****
THE LOCAL CO-OPERATIVE MOVEMENT WHICH HAS NOW A TOTAL MEMBERSHIP OF OVER 21,000 IS STILL GOING STRONG, THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, DR LAWRENCE LEE, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
DR LEE, AS REGISTRAR OF HONG KONG CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES, MADE THE REMARK WHEN HE ADDRESSED A DINNER GATHERING HELD TO CELEBRATE THE 71ST INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATIVE DAY IN SHAM SHUI PO.
REVIEWING THE WORK OF THE ACTIVITIES OF THE LOCAL CO-OPERATIVE MOVEMENT, DR LEE POINTED OUT THAT THE 27 VEGETABLE MARKETING CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES CONTINUED TO CONTRIBUTE SIGNIFICANTLY TO THE WHOLESALE MARKETING OF FRESH VEGETABLES.
IN 1992, THEY ACCOUNTED FOR 45 PERCENT OR 102,000 TONNES OF THE TOTAL THROUGHPUT AT THE CHEUNG SHA WAN WHOLESALE VEGETABLE MARKET, HE SAID.
DURING THE YEAR, THE CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES ALSO UNDERTOOK A NUMBER OF INFRASTRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS, WHICH BENEFITTED SOME 60 HECTARES OF CULTIVATED LAND.
AS REGARDS THE 17 PIG RAISING CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES, THEY HAD BEEN SUPPORTING THEIR FEDERATION IN RUNNING SCHEMES FOR THE BULK PURCHASE OF PIG FEED AND QUALITY BREEDING STOCK FROM OVERSEAS.
ON THE CREDIT SIDE, 48 PERCENT OF THE $6.1 MILLION WAS LOANED TO FARMERS IN 1992/93 THROUGH THE FARMERS’ CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES AND $390,000 FROM THE SOCIETIES OWN FUNDS.
TURNING TO THE FISHERIES FRONT, DR LEE SAID FISH LANDINGS AT THE FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION MARKETS AMOUNTED TO 68,000 TONNES, VALUED AT $648 MILLION IN 1992.
TO HELP FISHERMEN BUILD NEW FISHING VESSELS AND PURCHASE EQUIPMENT, LOANS TOTALLING $17.1 MILLION WAS GRANTED TO MEMBERS DURING THE YEAR.
ON URBAN CO-OPERATIVE MOVEMENT WHICH MAINLY COMPRISES OF CO-OPERATIVE BUILDING SOCIETIES, DR LEE NOTED THAT SOME MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETIES HAD CHOSEN TO DISSOLVE THE SOCIETIES WITH A VIEW TO ACQUIRE TITLE TO THE FLATS.
AS AT MARCH 31, 1993 A TOTAL OF 63 SOCIETIES INVOLVING 1,151 MEMBERS APPLIED FOR VOLUNTARY DISSOLUTION WHILE THE REGISTRATION OF 34 SOCIETIES INVOLVING 533 MEMBERS WAS CANCELLED," HE SAID.
MEANWHILE, THE CONSUMERS’ SOCIETIES CONTINUED TO OPERATE SUCCESSFULLY DURING THE YEAR WITH A COMBINED GROSS TRADING SURPLUS OF OVER $2.3 MILLION IN THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1993, AN INCREASE OF 4.5 PERCENT COMPARED WITH THE PREVIOUS YEAR.
DURING TODAY’S ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS, DR LEE ALSO PRESENTED CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION TO FOUR STAFF MEMBERS IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR LONG AND DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE MOVEMENT.
- - 0
4
SATURDAY, JULY 3, 1993
- 8 -
NORTH DISTRICT SYP BEGINS
MORE THAN 160 ACTIVITIES WILL BE ORGANISED IN THE NORTH DISTRICT THIS SUMMER FOR LOCAL YOUTHS TO ENJOY A FRUITFUL VACATION.
TO KICK OFF THE SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME (SYP), A FUN DAY WAS HELD IN LUNG SAM AVENUE INDOOR RECREATION CENTRE IN SHEUNG SHUI THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING.
ABOUT 1,000 YOUTHS TOOK PART IN VARIOUS TYPES OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES INCLUDING BADMINTON, SQUASH, TABLE TENNIS, GYMNASTIC EXERCISES, ROCK CLIMBING, AND ELECTRICAL VEHICLE DRIVING.
ALL THE PROGRAMMES WERE FREE OF CHARGE.
AT THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE NORTH DISTRICT SYP ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR CHEUNG FO-TAI, SAID:
”1 AM SURE THAT THESE FUNCTIONS CAN ENABLE THE YOUTHS TO ACHIEVE THE OBJECTIVES OF SHARING THE FUN AND SERVING THE COMMUNITY.”
THE SYP HAS BEEN ORGANISED IN THE DISTRICT SINCE 1985.
THIS YEAR, A WIDE RANGE OF CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL, EDUCATIONAL, AND SOCIAL SERVICES FUNCTIONS WILL BE HELD BY 39 LOCAL ORGANISATIONS.
A TOTAL OF $420,000 HAD BEEN ALLOCATED BY THE JOCKEY CLUB AND THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD FOR THIS PURPOSE.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS OF THE CEREMONY INCLUDED THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR RAYMOND PANG; AND NORTH DISTRICT OFFICER, MR TIMOTHY TONG.
LEAFLETS CONTAINING THE SYP ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 675 1584.
------0-------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,750
REVERSAL OF LAF +1,030
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,780
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -1,500
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,280
’ AF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.6 *+0.2* 3.7.93
------0------------
Received by PHO on-----l±i3
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUNDAY, JULY 4, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM IN NW-NT BEING IMPROVED NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION ...........
APPLY NOW FOR DAY NURSERY FEE ASSISTANCE ....................
UK/HK SCHOLARSHIPS FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES 1994/95 POSSESSION OF SEA TURTLE AN OFFENCE .........................
4
SUNDAY, JULY 4, 1993
1
TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM IN NW-NT BEING IMPROVED
*****
COMMENTING ON A PETITION TODAY (SUNDAY) BY A GROUP OF TUEN MUN RESIDENTS ON TRAFFIC CONDITIONS IN TUEN MUN, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS COMMITTED TO IMPROVING THE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM OF THE NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES (NW-NT) TO MEET PRESENT AND FUTURE DEMANDS.
"IN THE SHORT TERM, IMPROVEMENTS ARE BEING MADE TO FERRY SERVICES BETWEEN TUEN MUN AND THE URBAN AREA.
"IN THE MEDIUM TERM, THE TRAFFIC CAPACITY OF THE TUEN MUN TO TSUEN WAN CORRIDOR WILL BE INCREASED BY THE CONSTRUCTION OF ADDITIONAL CLIMBING LANES IN THE FOUR UPHILL SECTIONS OF TUEN MUN ROAD AND THE WIDENING OF CASTLE PEAK ROAD.
WORK ON THIS TWO PROJECTS IS IN HAND AND WILL BE COMPLETED IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS IN STAGES.
"IN THE LONG TERM, ADDITIONAL STRATEGIC LINKS, NAMELY THE ROUTE 3 (COUNTRY PARK SECTION) AND THE NW-NT URBAN RAIL LINK, ARE BEING CONSIDERED."
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE PRIVATE SECTOR WAS RECENTLY INVITED TO EXPRESS INTEREST IN BUILDING THE ROUTE 3 (COUNTRY PARK SECTION).
THE RESULTS WERE ENCOURAGING AND THE GOVERNMENT WILL ■ DECIDE LATER THIS YEAR ON HOW THE PROJECT IS TO BE BUILT.
"THE PROPOSED RAIL CONNECTION TO NW-NT IS GIVEN HIGH PRIORITY IN THE RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STUDY. THE GOVERNMENT WILL TAKE A DECISION ON THE OUTCOME OF THE STUDY WHICH IS NOW OPEN FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION,” THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
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NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION
*****
NOMINATIONS FOR THE REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN RESPECT OF THE SAI KUNG CONSTITUENCY WILL BE CALLED FOR FROM TOMORROW (MONDAY)
NOMINATION FORMS ARK OBTAINABLE AT ALL DISTRICT OFFICES AND AT THE REGISTRATION AND ELECTORAL OFFICE.
TO QUALIFY AS A CANDIDATE, A PERSON MUST BE A REGISTERED ELECTOR AND HAS BEEN ORDINARILY RESIDENT IN HONG KONG FOR 10 YEARS IMMEDIATELY BEFORE NOMINATION.
/A CANDIDATE
SUNDAY, JULY 4, 1993
2 -
A CANDIDATE CAN BE A RESIDENT ANYWHERE IN HONG KONG, BUT HIS NOMINATION MAY ONLY BE SUBSCRIBED BY REGISTERED ELECTORS IN THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT.
EACH NOMINATION REQUIRES 10 SUBSCRIBERS AND EACH SUBSCRIBER MAY GIVE SUPPORT TO ONE CANDIDATE ONLY.
ENQUIRIES MAY BE MADE OF THE DISTRICT OFFICER, SAI KUNG OR THE REGISTRATION AND ELECTORAL OFFICE ON TEL 827 1122.
0
APPLY NOW FOR DAY NURSERY FEE ASSISTANCE
*****
A SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (SUNDAY) REMINDED PARENTS WHO REQUIRE FEE ASSISTANCE FOR THEIR CHILDREN ATTENDING DAY NURSERY TO SUBMIT THEIR APPLICATIONS.
EXISTING RECIPIENTS OF SUCH ASSISTANCE ARE ALSO REQUIRED TO APPLY AGAIN.
TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR FEE ASSISTANCE, THE CHILD MUST BE BETWEEN TWO AND SIX YEARS OF AGE.
"THE PARENTS OR GUARDIAN WHO WISH TO APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE MUST SHOW THAT THEY ARE UNABLE TO AFFORD THE FULL COST OF THE FEES CHARGED BY THE NURSERY," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THEY MUST ALSO PROVE THAT THEY ARE UNABLE TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE CARE FOR THEIR CHILDREN AT HOME DURING THE DAY FOR REASONS SUCH AS BOTH PARENTS HAVING TO WORK, THE CHILD BELONGED TO A SINGLE-PARENT FAMILY, OR THE PRESENCE OF AN AGED OR DISABLED MEMBER IN THE FAMILY WHO REQUIRES SPECIAL CARE," HE ADDED.
THE AMOUNT OF ASSISTANCE PAYABLE WOULD BE CALCULATED WITH REGARD TO THE FAMILY'S NET INCOME WHICH IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE FAMILY’S TOTAL INCOME AND THE RECOGNISED RENT.
THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF ASSISTANCE PAYABLE WOULD BE BASED ON THE AVERAGE FEES CHARGED IN NON-PROFIT MAKING DAY NURSERIES.
APPLICATION FORMS AND A PAMPHLET INTRODUCING THE FEE ASSISTANCE SCHEME ARE OBTAINABLE AT DAY NURSERIES AND THE SWD’S SOCIAL SECURITY FIELD UNITS.
0
/3 .......
SUNDAY, JULY 4, 1993
3
UK/HK SCHOLARSHIPS FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES 1994/95 *****
THE UK/HK SCHOLARSHIPS COMMITTEE ANNOUNCED TODAY (SUNDAY) THAT APPLICATIONS WERE NOW INVITED FOR ITS SCHOLARSHIPS FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES STARTING IN THE ACADEMIC YEAR 1994/95.
THE SCHOLARSHIPS ARE OFFERED BY THE UK/HK SCHOLARSHIPS COMMITTEE ON BEHALF OF THE UNITED KINGDOM AND HONG KONG GOVERNMENTS.
APPLICANTS MAY CHOOSE ANY SUBJECT OF STUDY AT ANY LEADING ACADMIC INSTITUTIONS AT THE TERTIARY LEVEL IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.
SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR FULFILLING ALL APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS OF THE INSTITUTIONS OF THEIR CHOICE AND SHOULD BE OFFERED A PLACE SUBSEQUENTLY.
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES ARE EXPECTED TO POSSESS HIGH ACADEMIC PROWESS AND LEADERSHIP QUALITIES. THEY SHOULD ALSO DEMONSTRATE A STRONG SENSE OF COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG AND HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO CONTRIBUTE SIGNIFICANTLY TO THE MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND HONG KONG.
UPON GRADUATION, SCHOLARS ARE REQUIRED TO WORK IN HONG KONG FOR A MINIMUM OF THREE YEARS.
THE VALUE OF THE SCHOLARSHIP NORMALLY COVERS UNIVERSITY COMPOSITION FEE, A MAINTENANCE ALLOWANCE AND AN ALLOWANCE FOR AIR TRAVEL.
APPLICATION FORMS AND INFORMATION NOTES ARE AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING ADDRESSES:
* STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AGENCY NINTH FLOOR, NATIONAL MUTUAL CENTRE 151 GLOUCESTER ROAD WAN CHAI HONG KONG
* EDUCATION DEPARTMENT CAREER AND GUIDANCE SERVICE SECTION ROOM 206 MONGKOK GOVERNMENT OFFICES 30 LUEN WAN STREET MONG KOK KOWLOON
♦ YAU TSIM DISTRICT OFFICE GROUND FLOOR, MIDDLE ROAD CARPARK BUILDING 15 MIDDLE ROAD TSIM SHA TSUI KOWLOON
/*THE BRITISH .......
SUNDAY, JULY 4, 1993
♦ THE BRITISH COUNCIL EDUCATIONAL COUNSELLING SERVICE 255 HENNESSY ROAD WAN CHAI HONG KONG.
FOR ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL 802 1638.
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION IS SEPTEMBER 18. SUITABLE CANDIDATES WILL BE INVITED TO ATTEND AT LEAST ONE SELECTION INTERVIEW IN HONG KONG IN DECEMBER 1993/JANUARY 1994.
- - 0 - -
POSSESSION OF SEA TURTLE AN OFFENCE
TWO HAWKSBILL SEA TURTLES RECENTLY SEIZED BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT (AFD) WERE RELEASED BACK TO THE SEA AS PART OF THE DEPARTMENT’S CONSERVATION WORK FOR WILD ANIMALS IN HONG KONG.
CONSERVATION OFFICER, DR SO PING-MAN, TOOK THE OPPORTUNITY TO REMIND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC THAT SEA TURTLES WERE ENDANGERED SPECIES FACING EXTINCTION AND WERE PROTECTED UNDER THE ANIMALS AND PLANTS (PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES) ORDINANCE IN HONG KONG.
HE SAID: ’’THE IMPORT, EXPORT OR POSSESSION OF SEA TURTLE WHETHER ALIVE, DEAD, STUFFED SPECIMEN, PARTS OR DERIVATIVES, WITHOUT A VALID LICENCE ISSUED IN ADVANCE BY THE AFD IS AN OFFENCE.”
UNDER THE ORDINANCE, AN OFFENDER IS LIABLE ON CONVICTION TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $25,000 AND IN CASE OF A REPEATED OFFENCE A FINE OF $50,000 PLUS SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT,
CURRENTLY, OVER 9,000 SPECIES OF ANIMALS AND PLANTS INCLUDING PANGOLINS, MONKEYS, EAGLES AND HAWKS, OWLS, CROCODILES, GIANT SALAMANDER AND WILD ORCHIDS, ARE LISTED UNDER THE ORDINANCE FOR PROTECTION.
DR SO CALLED ON LOCAL RESIDENTS OR SEAMEN NOT TO BRING IN OR OUT OF HONG KONG ANY ENDANGERED SPECIES AT ALL TIME UNLESS ALL IMPORT AND EXPORT REQUIREMENTS ARE COMPILED WITH.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE TO THE FAUNA CONSERVATION SECTION OF THE DEPARTMENT ON TEL 733 2122.
THE SEIZURE OF THE TWO TURTLES WERE MADE SUBSEQUENT TO REPORT TO THE POLICE BY THE ROYAL SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS THAT SEA TURTLES WERE SEEN IN A FISH STALL IN SAI KUNG.
THE TWO TURTLES WERE ABOUT 30 AND 45 CM LONG AND WEIGHTED 2 AND 4 KG RESPECTIVELY. AS THEY WERE IN GOOD HEALTH CONDITIONS, THEY WERE RELEASED BACK TO THE SEA AT HOI HA WAN EARLIER IN THE WEEK.
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Received by
o:..._-.7-JUL-J99J
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, JULY 5, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
CENTRAL AND WAN CHAI RECLAMATION ................................ 1
GOVERNMENT ENDEAVOURS TO MAXIMISE RESOURCES ..................... 1
CRIME TN HONG KONG - FIRST HALF OF 1993 ......................... 3
THREE NOMINATED FOR REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION ................ 5
YOUNG PEOPLE ENCOURAGED TO JOIN SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME .......... 5
SEARCH FOR HK INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION DIRECTOR ................... 6
BEAR SEIZED BY AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES OFFICERS
CIVIC EDUCATION EXHIBITION DRAWS CROWDS ......................
TWO MOTION DEBATES ON LEGCO AGENDA ...........................
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ...................................
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
10
MONDAY, JULY 5,
1993
- 1 -CENTRAL AND WAN CHAI RECLAMATION *****
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES, A GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL SAID TODAY (MONDAY) THAT THE TWO LOWEST TENDERERS FOR THE CENTRAL AND WANCHAI RECLAMATION PHASE I CONTRACT HAD AGREED TO EXTEND THE VALIDITY OF THEIR TENDERS FOR A FURTHER FOUR MONTHS FROM JULY 5 TO NOVEMBER 8.
THE PROJECT INCLUDES THE SITE OF THE AIRPORT RAILWAY’S HONG KONG STATION TERMINUS, AND THUS FORMS AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE AIRPORT RAILWAY.
"BECAUSE OF THIS, WE HAVE BEEN IN DISCUSSION WITH THE CHINESE SIDE OF THE AIRPORT COMMITTEE ABOUT THE PROJECT AND WE HOPE THAT THE CHINESE SIDE WILL BE ABLE TO INDICATE ITS SUPPORT FOR THE AWARD OF THE CONTRACT IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
"WE REMAIN COMMITTED TO COMPLETING AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME PROJECTS TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT POSSIBLE BY JUNE 1997, IN LINE WITH THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING.
"CLEARLY HOWEVER, IT BECOMES HARDER TO AVOID THE RISK OF SLIPPAGE AND RISING COSTS IF THERE ARE DELAYS IN AWARDING CONTRACTS," THE OFFICIAL SAID.
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GOVERNMENT ENDEAVOURS TO MAXIMISE RESOURCES ♦ t * i t
THE GOVERNMENT IS PROPOSING TO THE LEGISLATURE THAT IT SHOULD ESTABLISH A MANAGEMENT SERVICES AGENCY WHICH CAN BE CALLED UPON BY DEPARTMENTS TO PROVIDE EXPERT ASSISTANCE IN VALUE FOR MONEY STUDIES AND TOP DOWN REVIEWS, THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY, MR DONALD TSANG, SAID.
SPEAKING AT A HONG KONG SHIPPERS’ COUNCIL LUNCHEON THIS (MONDAY) AFTERNOON, MR TSANG SAID IN ESSENCE THE NEW SYSTEM WOULD PROVIDE MORE PRECISE COST INFORMATION ON EACH DEPARTMENTAL ACTIVITY AND WOULD ASSIST POLICY SECRETARIES IN DETERMINING WHETHER THEY WERE MAKING THE BEST USE OF THEIR RESOURCES.
"IN SHORT, WE ARE ENDEAVOURING TO BRING THE SUCCESSFUL PRACTICES OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR INTO THE CIVIL SERVICE," MR TSANG ADDED.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE NEW SYSTEM WAS IN ADDITION TO THOSE WHICH HAD NOW BEEN PUT IN PLACE TO HELP POLICY SECRETARIES IDENTIFY MORE CLEARLY WHERE RESOURCES WERE BEING CONSUMED.
/THE FINANCE .......
MONDAY, JULY 5, 1993
- 2 -
THE FINANCE BRANCH IS CURRENTLY UNDERTAKING A REVIEW. ITS AIM IS TO LEAVE A LEANER BUT MORE ROBUST POLICY BRANCH WITH A MORE STRATEGIC ROLE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PUBLIC FINANCES, WHILE GIVING POLICY SECRETARIES GREATER RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF RESOURCES ALLOCATED TO THEIR POLICY AREAS.
"TO THIS END POLICY SECRETARIES WILL NEED TO DEVELOP FRAMEWORK AGREEMENTS WITH THEIR EXECUTIVE AGENCIES; OBTAIN FROM THE CENTRE THE RESOURCES THEY REQUIRE; MONITOR AND EVALUATE THE WAY THOSE RESOURCES ARE BEING USED; AS WELL AS PROMOTING AND SECURING VALUE FOR MONEY.
’’THEY WILL ALSO BE REQUIRED TO PROPERLY TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF ANY POLICY PROPOSALS THEY SEEK TO IMPLEMENT.
"ON THIS LATTER POINT, GIVEN CURRENT CONSTRAINTS, WE HOPE POLICY SECRETARIES WILL FOCUS EVEN MORE SHARPLY ON THE USE OF THEIR EXISTING RESOURCES TO DETERMINE WHETHER THERE IS SCOPE FOR REDEPLOYMENT TO FUND NEW INITIATIVES,” MR TSANG SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT PUBLIC SECTOR CURRENTLY CONSUMED JUST UNDER 20 PER CENT OF THE TERRITORY’S GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT.
’’WHILE THIS MAY APPEAR LOW COMPARED WITH OTHER DEVELOPED COUNTRIES, WE ARE CONVINCED THAT IT IS PRUDENT TO MAINTAIN IT AT AROUND THIS LEVEL.
"TO DO THIS WE AIM TO ENSURE THAT THE GROWTH OF PUBLIC EXPENDITURE DOES NOT OUTSTRIP THE UNDERLYING GROWTH RATE OF THE ECONOMY AS A WHOLE," HE SAID.
"THIS POLICY HAS SERVED US WELL AND HAS BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN SECURING THE REAL GROWTH IN THE ECONOMY FROM WHICH WE CONTINUE TO BENEFIT," HE STRESSED.
"HOWEVER TO ENSURE WE HAVE A REASONABLE CUSHION AGAINST UNFORESEEN CONTINGENCIES WE ALSO BELIEVE IT PRUDENT TO MAINTAIN HEALTHY RESERVES," HE ADDED.
"OUR ECONOMIC GROWTH HAS, OF COURSE, RESULTED IN WELCOME IMPROVEMENTS TO OUR STANDARD OF LIVING. IT HAS ALSO ENABLED THE GOVERNMENT TO BRING ABOUT IMPROVEMENTS TO ITS SERVICES.
"THIS YEAR HEALTH, EDUCATION, SOCIAL WELFARE AND THE ENVIRONMENT HAVE BEEN TARGETED FOR GROWTH. WE NEVERTHELESS ACCEPT THAT MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE.
"THE PROBLEM IS THAT OUR EFFORT TO CONTAIN THE GROWTH IN PUBLIC EXPENDITURE INEVITABLY RESULTS IN AN EVER-INCREASING MISMATCH BETWEEN PUBLIC ASPIRATIONS AND THE RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO FUND THEM," HE SAID.
FOR THIS REASON DECISIONS CONCERNING THE USE OF NEW RESOURCES MUST REFLECT THE TRUE PRIORITIES OF THE COMMUNITY.
WITH THIS IN MIND, BEFORE PREPARING HIS BUDGET, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY MAKES EVERY EFFORT TO CONSULT WITH MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, TO ENSURE THAT THEIR VIEWS ARE FULLY TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT, HE SAID.
"SUCH IMPORTANT EXCHANGES WHICH ARE MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL ARE TAKING PLACE NOW FOR THE NEXT YEAR’S BUDGET," HE SAID.
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/3 .....
MONDAY, JULY 5, 1993
- 3 -
CRIME IN HONG KONG - FIRST HALF OF 1993 ♦ ♦♦♦♦♦
POLICE TODAY (MONDAY) RELEASED THE CRIME FIGURES FOR THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF THIS YEAR.
OVERALL CRIME SITUATION
CRIME FIGURES FOR THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1993 SHOWED AN ENCOURAGING FALL IN MOST SECTORS OVER THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD LAST YEAR.
PARTICULARLY ENCOURAGING WAS THE DROP IN THE NUMBER OF ROBBERIES INVOLVING FIREARMS BY 46.4% AND WITH PISTOL-LIKE OBJECTS BY 29.6% OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992. VHEICLE THEFT DROPPED BY 22.2% OVER THE CORRESPONDING SIX MONTH PERIOD.
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF CRIMES REPORTED TO POLICE IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WAS 40,610. THIS WAS A MARGINAL DECREASE OF 160 OR 0.4% OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
THE CRIME RATE, WHICH IS THE NUMBER OF CRIMES PER 100,000 POPULATION, WAS 689, A DROP OF 1.6% COMPARED WITH THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD OF LAST YEAR.
VIOLENT CRIME
THERE WERE 8,667 VIOLENT CRIMES REPORTED. THIS WAS A DECREASE OF 394 OR 4.3% OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
THE VIOLENT CRIME, I.E. THE NUMBER OF CRIMES REPORTED PER 100,000 POPULATION, WAS 147, WHICH REPRESENTS A DROP OF 5.8% OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
(VIOLENT CRIME INCLUDES MURDER, WOUNDING, SERIOUS ASSAULT, RAPE, INDECENT ASSAULT, CRUELTY TO CHILDREN, KIDNAPPING, BLACKMAIL, INTIMIDATION, ROBBERY AND ARSON)
SELECTED CRIMES
ROBBERY
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ROBBERIES REPORTED IN THIS HALF WAS 3,671 COMPARED WITH 4,302 IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1992, A SIGNIFICANT DROP OF 14.7%.
THERE WERE 15 ROBBERIES IN THIS HALF WHICH INVOLVED THE USE OF GENUINE FIREARMS; THIS COMPARES VERY FAVOURABLY WITH 28 DOWN 46.4% IN THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD LAST YEAR.
THERE WERE 159 ROBBERIES WHERE PISTOL-LIKE OBJECTS WERE USED, MARKEDLY DOWN BY 29.6% ON THE FIRST HALF OF 1992.
/THE FIRST .......
MONDAY, JULY 5, 1993
4
THE FIRST SIX MONTHS SAW A MARKED DECREASE OF 60% IN ROBBERIES OF GOLDSMITHS/WATCH SHOPS, WITH ONLY 12 CASES RECORDED, AS AGAINST 30 IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1992.
BANK ROBBERIES DECREASED SLIGHTLY BY 4.8% WITH 60 CASES COMPARED WITH 63 IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1992.
HOMICIDE
HOMICIDES WERE DOWN 28.8% AT 42 COMPARED TO 59 DURING THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992. (THE FIGURES FOR 1992 INCLUDED 24 VIETNAMESE KILLED IN SHEK KONG).
WOUNDING AND SERIOUS ASSAULT
THESE WERE UP WITH 2,914 CASES AS COMPARED TO 2,667 UP 9.3% IN THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
INDECENT ASSAULT ON FEMALE AND RAPE
THERE WERE 51 RAPES, THE SAME FIGURE AS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1992. INDECENT ASSAULTS ON FEMALES WERE 490 AS AGAINST 523 IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1992.
BLACKMAIL
BLACKMAIL CASES WERE 395 COMPARED TO 438 DOWN 9.8%, IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1992.
BURGLARY
6,936 BURGLARIES WERE REPORTED IN THE FIRST HALF UP BY 3.6% IN COMPARISON WITH THE SAME PERIOD OF 1992.
MOTOR VEHICLE CRIME
CRIMES INVOLVING MISSING MOTOR VEHICLES DROPPED SIGNIFICANTLY TO 2,389, 22.2% OVER THE SIX MONTH PERIOD, AS AGAINST 3,069 IN THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
FIGURES IN MOST AREAS OF SERIOUS CRIME WERE ENCOURAGING, SIGNIFICANTLY DOWN ON THE CORRESPONDING SIX MONTHS OF LAST YEAR.
PART OF THE CREDIT FOR THE DROP IN SERIOUS CRIME CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO IMPROVED CROSS BORDER CO-OPERATION AS WELL AS QUALIFIED SUCCESS IN THE PENETRATION AND NEUTRALISATION OF CRIMINAL SYNDICATES.
INCREASED POLICE STREET PATROL IS ALSO A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO THE DECLINE. AN ADDITION OF ABOUT 850 POLICE OFFICERS WERE BACK ON CONSTABULARY DUTIES AFTER THE CLOSURE OF THE VIETNAMESE MIGRANT DETENTION CENTRES, IMPROVED POLICE RECRUITMENT AND WASTAGE SITUATION AND THE RELEASE OF OFFICERS FROM CIVILIAN OFFICE WORK.
MONDAY, JULY 5, 1993
- 5 -
THREE NOMINATED FOR REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION ♦ ♦ ♦ * *
THREE CANDIDATES HAVE BEEN NOMINATED FOR THE REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN RESPECT OF THE SAI KUNG CONSTITUENCY TODAY (MONDAY) WHEN THE NOMINATION PERIOD BEGINS.
NOMINATIONS ARE BEING CALLED FOR UNTIL JULY 19. THE BY-ELECTION WILL BE HELD ON AUGUST 8 TO FILL THE SEAT OF MR GILBERT LEUNG KAM-HO.
PERSONAL PARTICULARS OF THE CANDIDATES ARE:
NAME AGE OCCUPATION TELEPHONE
MR FRANCIS CHAU YIN-MING 32 SOCIAL SERVICE ADMINISTRATOR 116 3355 CALL 1717
DR LAW CHEUNG-KWOK 44 RESEARCH DIRECTOR AND ECONOMIC ADVISER 577 1572
MR WAI HING-CHEUNG 34 POST-GRADUATE STUDENT 9226 3009
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YOUNG PEOPLE ENCOURAGED TO JOIN SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME ♦ * * ♦ ♦
YOUNG PEOPLE ARE TODAY (MONDAY) URGED TO JOIN THIS YEAR’S SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME (SYP) WHICH CELEBRATES ITS 25TH ANNIVERSARY.
SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SYP COMMITTEE, MR PETER LEE, ESTIMATED THAT OVER 1.5 MILLION YOUNG PEOPLE WERE EXPECTED TO TAKE PART IN THE PROGRAMME’S 14,000 ACTIVITIES AND ENJOY A MEANINGFUL AND ENTERTAINING SUMMER HOLIDAY.
THE SYP STARTED TO PROVIDE ACTIVITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AGED BETWEEN 6 AND 25 SINCE 1969.
THIS YEAR’S THEME IS "SHARE THE FUN, SERVE THE COMMUNITY". THE SYP COMMITTEE, THROUGH FUNDING ARRANGEMENTS, HAD ENCOURAGED PARTICIPATING ORGANISATIONS TO ORGANISE SOCIAL SERVICE ACTIVITIES TO HELP YOUNG PEOPLE SERVE THE COMMUNITY THROUGH JOINING RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES.
MR LEE SAID SCHOLARSHIPS FOR LOCAL AND OVERSEAS OUTWARD BOUND SCHOOL TRAINING COURSES WOULD CONTINUE TO BE AWARDED TO VOLUNTEERS WHO DISPLAYED OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE IN PLANNING AND PROMOTING SUMMER YOUTH ACTIVITIES.
/MR LEE ........
MONDAY, JULY 5, 1993
- 6 -
MR LEE SAID THE TOTAL FUND NEEDED FOR THIS YEAR WAS ESTIMATED AT $39 MILLION. THIS WILL BE MET BY A $14 MILLION DONATION FROM THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB AND CONTRIBUTIONS FROM VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, DISTRICT BOARDS AND PRIVATE BODIES.
ON BEHALF OF THE SYP COMMITTEE, MR LEE THANKED THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB FOR ITS CONTRIBUTIONS AND SUPPORT TO THE PROGRAMME.
TO MARK THE OPENING OF THIS YEAR’S PROGRAMME, AN OPENING CEREMONY CUM VARIETY SHOW ENTITLING "SWINGING SUMMER" WILL BE STAGED AT THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS ON JULY 10.
SOME 1,000 PARTICIPANTS WILL BE INVITED TO THE OPENING CEREMONY WHICH WILL BE OFFICIATED BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD, AND THE SECRETRY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SUEN.
IN ADDITION, A "JUBILEE DAY" EVENT IS SCHEDULED ON AUGUST 8 AND ACTIVITIES WILL BE ORGANISED AT VARIOUS DISTRICTS TO CELEBRATE THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SYP, MR LEE ADDED.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THIS YEAR’S SYP CAN BE DIRECTED TO ANY DISTRICT OFFICES.
------0 - -
SEARCH FOR HK INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION DIRECTOR ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION IS LOOKING FOR THE FIRST DIRECTOR TO HEAD THE INSTITUTE.
APPLICANTS SHOULD HOLD A DOCTORATE DEGREE, HAVE EXPERIENCE IN TEACHER EDUCATION AND PREFERABLY AGED BETWEEN 40 TO 55.
KNOWLEDGE OF THE EDUCATION SYSTEM AND TEACHER EDUCATION IN HONG KONG WILL BE AN ADVANTAGE. KNOWLEDGE OF THE CHINESE LANGUAGE AND CULTURE IS DESIRABLE.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE COUNCIL SAID THE JOB CARRIED A MONTHLY SALARY OF $106,950 WHICH WAS EQUIVALENT TO A GOVERNMENT OFFICER AT THE HEAD OF DEPARTMENT LEVEL.
OTHER FRINGE BENEFITS INCLUDE SUBSIDISED HOUSING, LEAVE, PASSAGE, CHILDREN'S EDUCATION ALLOWANCE AS WELL AS BENEFITS COMMENSURATE WITH A POSITION OF SUCH IMPORTANCE.
"THE APPOINTMENT WILL BE EXTREMELY CHALLENGING AS THE DIRECTOR IS EXPECTED TO OVERSEE THE PLANNING, ADMINISTRATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION WHICH WILL BE THE KEY PROVIDER OF TEACHER EDUCATION COURSES IN HONG KONG," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"HE WILL HAVE TO OVERSEE THE SUCCESSFUL MERGER OF THE FOUR COLLEGES OF EDUCATION AND THE INSTITUTE OF LANGUAGE IN EDUCATION.
/"THE DIRECTOR .......
MONDAY, JULY 5, 1993
"THE DIRECTOR THUS WOULD HAVE TO HAVE HIGH ACADEMIC STANDING AND STRONG LEADERSHIP QUALITIES, AS WELL AS EXPERIENCE IN DEVELOPING TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS," HE ADDED.
APPOINTMENT WILL INITIALLY BE ON A THREE-YEAR CONTRACT WITlt A GRATUITY OF 25 PER CENT OF TOTAL SALARY EARNED ON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION.
THEREAFTER, THE INCUMBENT MAY BE RE-APPOINTED BY THE INSTITUTE’S GOVERNING COUNCIL SUBJECT TO MUTUAL AGREEMENT.
THE COUNCIL IS PLACING ADVERTISEMENTS FOR THE JOB IN BOTH LOCAL AND OVERSEAS NEWSPAPERS.
IT HOPES TO MAKE THE APPOINTMENT BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR, (IO THAT THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT CAN TAKE UP THE POST IN JANUARY 199''’ AND PARTICIPATE IN PLANNING FOR THE CREATION OF THE INSTITUTE IN OCTOBER 1994 .
THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNING COUNCIL WAS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR TO PREPARE FOR THE FORMAL ESTABLISHMENT OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION.
THE INSTITUTE WILL BE A PUBLICLY-FUNDED INSTITUTION OFFERING TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMMES AT PRE-DEGREE LEVEL AND INTRODUCING DEGREE AND RESEARCH PROGRAMMES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
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BEAR SEIZED BY AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES OFFICERS ******
THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) SEIZED AN ASIATIC BLACK BEAR FROM A PRIVATE VILLA ON TAI PO ROAD AFTER RECEIVING INFORMATION PROVIDED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID: "ASIATIC BLACK BEAR IS A KIND OF HIGHLY ENDANGERED SPECIES PROTECTED UNDER THE ANIMALS AND PLANTS (PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES) ORDINANCE."
"UNDER THE ORDINANCE, IT IS AN OFFENCE TO IMPORT, EXPORT, OR POSSESS A BEAR WITHOUT A VALID LICENCE ISSUED IN ADVANCE BY THE DEPARTMENT."
THERE ARE AT PRESENT OVER 9,000 SPECIES OF ANIMALS AND PLANTS LISTED UNDER THE ORDINANCE, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE REMINDED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO CHECK WITH THE DEPARTMENT BEFORE IMPORTING, EXPORTING OR POSSESSING ANIMALS AND PLANTS, WHETHER ALIVE, DEAD, OR STUFFED SPECIMEN.
THE MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR THE OFFENCE IS A FINE OF $25,000 ON FIRST CONVICTION AND $50,000 AND SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT ON SUBSEQUENT OFFENCE, HE ADDED.
/THE BEAR .......
MONDAY, JULY 5, 1993
8
THE BEAR SEIZED THIS MORNING IS A FEMALE OF ABOUT 1.5 METRES LONG AND WEIGHING ABOUT 100 KILOGRAMS. INVESTIGATION IS CONTINUING.
IT IS NOW PLACED IN SHEUNG SHUI SHEK WU HUI GOVERNMENT KENNELS. ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE MADE TO TRANSFER IT TO A SUITABLE BREEDING CENTRE OVERSEAS.
ASIATIC BLACK BEAR IS USUALLY FOUND IN FORESTED REGIONS OF SOUTHEAST ASIA, NORTHEAST AND SOUTHERN PARTS OF CHINA AND JAPAN.
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CIVIC EDUCATION EXHIBITION DRAWS CROWDS *****
THE 1993 CIVIC EDUCATION EXHIBITION CURRENTLY STAGED AT THE SCIENCE MUSEUM HAS RECEIVED AN OVERWHELMING RESPONSE, ATTRACTING THOUSANDS OF VISITORS SINCE ITS OPENING LAST SATURDAY AFTERNOON.
A CPCE SPOKESMAN TODAY (MONDAY) SAID MOST OF THE PARTICIPANTS WERE YOUNG PEOPLE AND FAMILIES. THIS MORNING ALONE, SOME 2,000 PEOPLE HAVE SEEN THE EXHIBITS.
HE EXPECTED THE FIGURE TO BE FURTHER BOOSTED WHEN STUDENTS, FROM SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN PARTICULAR, WHO HAVE ENROLLED THROUGH THEIR TEACHERS TURN OUT IN FORCE TOMORROW.
THE SPOKESMAN URGED THOSE WHO HAD NOT SEEN THE DISPLAY TO TAKE PART IN THE VARIOUS PROGRAMMES.
THE EXHIBITION, FOCUSES ON HUMAN RIGHTS, AIMS TO IMPART RELEVANT MESSAGES THROUGH A VARIETY OF INTERESTING ACTIVITIES.
THEY INCLUDE A HANDS-ON COMPUTER QUIZ WHICH COMPRISES AN AWARDWINNING ANIMATION VIDEO ENTITLED "THE ADVENTURE OF A WORM".
VISITORS CAN PICK UP THE TELEPHONES TO LISTEN TO FIVE DIFFERENT PRE-RECORDED SHORT PLAYS, PORTRAYING SCENARIOS TO ILLUSTRATE HOW THE BILL OF RIGHTS ORDINANCE AFFECTS DAILY LIVES.
INTERFACED WITH A DYNAMIC GRAPHIC VIDEO PRESENTATION INTRODUCING THE ARTICLES OF THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS IS A SLIDE SHOW PRODUCED BY THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF YOUTH GROUPS ENCAPSULATING THE SAME THEME.
THE URBAN COUNCIL HAS PUT UP FOR DISPLAY A COLLECTION OF REFERENCE BOOKS ON SUCH TOPICS AS CIVIC RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES AND I,AW AND ORDER.
UP FOR GRABS ARE BOOKMARKS, CARTOON BOOKLETS AND CIVIC CARD SETS FEATURING PHOTOGRAPHS OF AND QUOTES FROM ARTISTES LIKE AARON KWOK, ALAN TAM AND JOEY WONG ON THEIR VIEWS ON HUMAN RIGHTS.
THE FOUR-DAY EXHIBITION AT THE SPECIAL EXHIBITION HALL OF THE HONG KONG SCIENCE MUSEUM WILL END AT 5 PM TOMORROW (TUESDAY). ADMISSION IS FREE.
/9.........
MONDAY, JULY 5, 1993
9
TWO MOTION DEBATES ON LEGCO AGENDA * * * * *
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL DEBATE TWO MOTIONS THIS WEDNESDAY (JULY 7) - ONE ON POLICY ON SERVICE INDUSTRY AND THE OTHER ON RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STUDY.
THE FIRST MOTION WILL BE MOVED BY DR THE HON HUANG CHEN-YA WHILE THE OTHER WILL BE PROPOSED BY THE HON LAU WAH-SUM.
THE HON MRS SELINA CHOW WILL MOVE SEVEN MOTIONS UNDER THE INTERPRETATION AND GENERAL CLAUSES ORDINANCE. THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT WILL MOVE TWO MOTIONS UNDER THE PUBLIC BUS SERVICES ORDINANCE.
MEMBERS WILL ASK A TOTAL OF 19 QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER 12 BILLS AT THE MEETING.
SIX OF THE BILLS WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS. DEBATES ON THEM ARE DUE TO BE ADJOURNED.
THE BILLS ARE LAND DRAINAGE BILL; EXCHANGES (SPECIAL LEVY) (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; BANKING (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; COMPANIES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 4) BILL 1993; SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 AND STOCK EXCHANGES UNIFICATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993.
DEBATES ON THE OTHER SIX BILLS WILL BE RESUMED. THEY ARE DUE TO GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE GIVEN A THIRD READING.
THEY ARE: PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; MERCHANT SHIPPING (LIMITATION OF SHIPOWNERS LIABILITY) BILL; INLAND REVENUE (AMENDMENT) (NO. 5) BILL 1992; BANK NOTES ISSUE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; EXCHANGE FUND (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 AND INSURANCE COMPANIES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) BILL 1992.
IN ADDITION, THE HON RONALD ARCULLI WILL PRESENT THE 1992 ANNUAL REPORT BY THE COMMISSIONER OF THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION.
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER WILL ALSO PRESENT THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY ANNUAL REPORT 1992 AND THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY ANNUAL REPORT 1992.
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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/10........
MONDAY, JULY 5, 1993
10 -
WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * * * *
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 71.7 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 420.043 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 452.542 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 77.2 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
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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 1,280 +1,520 2,800 NIL -1,000 1,800
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI HONG KONG GOVERNMENT 112.7 EXCHANGE *+0.1* 5. FUND 7.93
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.59 PCT 14 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.51 3.94
1 MONTH 3.51 PCT 17 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.71 4.12
3 MONTHS 3.40 PCT 20 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.76 4.30
6 MONTHS 12 MONTHS 3.53 PCT 3.87 PCT 23 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.77 4.49
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 15,500 MN
CLOSED JULY 5, 1993
- - 0 - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, JULY 6, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
EIGHTH ROUND OF SINO-BRITISH TALKS ............................. 1
GOVERNOR APPOINTS NEW HOUSING AUTHORITY CHAIRMAN ............... 1
COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 ......................................................... 2
ONE MORE CANDIDATE JOINS REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION .......... 3
STUDENT LOAN FUNDS INVITE APPLICATIONS ........................ 3
10 APPLICATIONS RECEIVED FOR RESEARCH FUNDING .................. 5
AIRPORT EXHIBITION FOR STUDENTS ............................... 6
SALT WATER CUT IN MONG KOK ..................................... 6
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS .............. 7
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 8
TUESDAY, JULY 6, 1993
EIGHTH ROUND OF * *
SINO-BRITISH TALKS * * *
THE BRITISH SIDE AND THE CHINESE SIDE HAVE AGREED THAT THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE, SIR ROBIN MCLAREN, BRITISH AMBASSADOR TO CHINA, AND THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE, MR JIANG ENZHU, VICE FOREIGN MINISTER OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA, WILL HOLD THEIR EIGHTH ROUND OF TALKS IN BEIJING BETWEEN 20 AND 22 JULY 1993 ON THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS IN HONG KONG IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION, THE PRINCIPLE OF CONVERGENCE WITH THE BASIC LAW AND THE RELEVANT AGREEMENTS AND UNDERSTANDINGS REACHED BETWEEN BRITAIN AND CHINA.
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GOVERNOR APPOINTS NEW HOUSING AUTHORITY CHAIRMAN
*****
THE GOVERNOR HAS APPOINTED MS ROSANNA WONG Y1CK-MING TO BE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY FOR A PERIOD OF TWO YEARS.
THE APPOINTMENT TAKES EFFECT FROM TODAY (TUESDAY).
MS WONG, 41, IS A MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF YOUTH GROUPS.
SHE EARLIER SERVED ON THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL FROM 1985 TO 1991, AND THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL FROM 1988 TO 1991, BEFORE LEAVING HONG KONG FOR FURTHER STUDIES TN THE UNITED STATES.
UPON HER RETURN TO HONG KONG, SHE WAS APPOINTED AS A MEMBER OF THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE LAST YEAR, AS WELL AS CHAIRMAN OF THE POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE TN FEBRUARY THIS YEAR.
MS WONG HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN SOCIAL WORK FOR MANY YEARS, THROUGH WHICH SHE HAS ESTABLISHED CLOSE CONTACTS WITH A LOT OF PEOPLE AT THE GRASSROOTS LEVEL. SHE HAD SERVED AS CHAIRMEN OF THE COMMISSION ON YOUTH, AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
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/2 ........
TUESDAY, JULY 6, 1993
2
COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 *****
THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL TODAY (TUESDAY) APPROVED LEGISLATION TO EFFECT THE VARIOUS PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS (COMAC) REDRESS SYSTEM.
THE PROPOSED CHANGES, WHICH AIM AT PROVIDING A MORE AFFECTIVE SAFEQUARD AGAINST MALADMINISTRATION ON THE PART OF GOVERNMENT OR STATUTORY BODIES ARE:
* THE EXISTING SYSTEM FOR NON-OFFICIAL LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS TO REFER CASES TO COMMISSIONER SHOULD BE CHANGED TO ENABLE THE PUBLIC TO TAKE THEIR COMPLAINTS DIRECTLY TO THE COMMISSIONER;
* THE COMMISSIONER’S JURISDICTION SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO INCLUDE MAJOR STATUTORY BODIES ESTABLISHED BY THE GOVERNMENT. THEY INCLUDE THE HOUSING AUTHORITY, THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION, THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION, THE URBAN COUNCIL, THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, AND THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION; AND
* THE COMMISSIONER SHOULD BE ABLE TO PUBLICISE INVESTIGATION REPORTS WITH THE NAMES OF THE INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED IN THE COMPLAINTS BEING ANONYMISED TO ENSURE PRIVACY.
’’THE PROPOSED CHANGES REFLECT THE PUBLIC VIEWS EXPRESSED DURING THE REVIEW OF THE COMAC OFFICE AND ARE SUPPORTED BY THE COMMISSIONER,” A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
UNDER THE PROPOSAL, THE PUBLIC WOULD BE ABLE TO TAKE THEIR COMPLAINTS TO THE COMMISSIONER WITHOUT THE NEED FOR REFERRAL BY A NON-OFFICIAL LEGCO MEMBER.
MEMBERS OF LEGCO, THE TWO MUNICIPAL COUNCILS AND DISTRICT BOARDS CAN ALSO REFER CASES TO THE COMMISSIONER IN FUTURE, PROVIDED IT IS WITH THE CONSENT OF THE COMPLAINANT.
ON THE EXTENSION OF COMAC’S JURISDICTION TO MAJOR STATUTORY BODIES, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THIS WAS TO UNDERLINE THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY OF STATUTORY BODIES.
"IT IS GOVERNMENT POLICY TO EXTEND COMAC’S JURISDICTION TO MAJOR STATUTORY BODIES HAVING REGARD TO THE FUNCTIONS OF THE BODY AND THE EXTENT OF DEALINGS WITH THE PUBLIC.
"PRIORITY IS BEING GIVEN TO INCLUDE THOSE WHICH PROVIDE AN IMPORTANT PUBLIC SERVICE AND HAVE CLOSE CONTACTS WITH THE COMMUNITY.
"OTHER STATUTORY BODIES WILL BE BROUGHT UNDER THE COMMISSIONER’S JURISDICTION WHEN RESOURCES PERMIT," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
/ON THE ........
TUESDAY, JULY 6, 1993
- 3 -
ON THE PROPOSAL TO ENABLE THE COMMISSIONER TO PUBLICISE HIS INVESTIGATION REPORTS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE CHANGE WOULD PROMOTE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE COMAC SYSTEM AND ENHANCE CONFIDENCE IN IT.
THE AMENDMENT BILL WILL BE GAZETTED ON JULY 9 (FRIDAY) AND IS SCHEDULED TO BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON JULY 21.
ONE MORE CANDIDATE JOINS REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION
******
ANOTHER CANDIDATE HAS BEEN NOMINATED TODAY (TUESDAY) FOR THE REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN RESPECT OF THE SAI KUNG CONSTITUENCY.
THIS BRINGS TO FOUR THE TOTAL NUMBER OF NOMINATIONS RECEIVED SINCE THE TWO-WEEK NOMINATION PERIOD BEGAN YESTERDAY.
PERSONAL DETAILS OF THE CANDIDATE ARE:
NAME AGE OCCUPATION TELEPHONE
MR CHEUNG HON-TIN 40 BANK MANAGER 763 5308
THE BY-ELECTION WILL BE HELD ON AUGUST 8 TO FILL THE VACANCY LEFT BY MR GILBERT LEUNG KAM-HO.
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STUDENT LOAN FUNDS INVITE APPLICATIONS
*****
STUDENTS WHO NEED FINANCIAL HELP TO COMPLETE THEIR COURSES OF STUDY ARE INVITED TO APPLY FOR LOANS FOR 1993/94 FROM THE HONG KONG ROTARY CLUB STUDENTS’ LOAN FUND AND THE SING TAO FOUNDATION STUDENTS' LOAN FUND.
THE TWO FUNDS PROVIDE INTEREST-FREE LOANS FOR STUDENTS OF POSTSECONDARY INSTITUTIONS, TECHNICAL INSTITUTES AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
PRIORITY WILL BE GIVEN TO APPLICANTS WHO ARE NEARING COMPLETION OF THEIR STUDIES.
APPLICATIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED BY A JOINT COMMITTEE FOR BOTH LOAN FUNDS.
/SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS
TUESDAY, JULY 6, 1993
4
SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS WILL BE REQUIRED TO ENTER INTO A FORMAL UNDERTAKING TO REPAY THEIR LOANS BY INSTALMENTS OF AT LEAST 10 PER CENT OF THEIR MONTHLY SALARY FOLLOWING THE COMPLETION OF THEIR STUDIES.
THE LOANS WILL THEN BE PAID DIRECT INTO THEIR PERSONAL ACCOUNTS WITH A LOCAL BANK. THEY ARE MADE YEARLY.
NEW APPLICANTS, AND PRESENT RECIPIENTS WHO WISH TO APPLY FOR FURTHER LOANS FOR THE COMING ACADEMIC YEAR, MUST COMPLETE A PRESCRIBED FORM.
DETAILS ARE:
INSTITUTE WHERE APPLICANT IS STUDYING OR INTENDS TO STUDY OFFICE WHERE STUDENT CAN OBTAIN AND MUST RETURN THE APPLICATION FORM CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION
CITY POLYTECHNIC OF HONG KONG STUDENT AFFAIRS OFFICE OCTOBER 15
HONG KONG BAPTIST COLLEGE STUDENT AFFAIRS OFFICE OCTOBER 15
HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC STUDENT AFFAIRS OFFICE OCTOBER 15
LINGNAN COLLEGE STUDENT AFFAIRS OFFICE OCTOBER 15
THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG OFFICE OF STUDENT AFFAIRS OCTOBER 15
THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY STUDENT AFFAIRS OFFICE OCTOBER 15
THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG OFFICE OF STUDENT AFFAIRS OCTOBER 15
HONG KONG SHUE YAN COLLEGE, TECHNICAL INSTITUTES AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AGENCY, NINTH FLOOR, NATIONAL MUTUAL CENTRE, SEPTEMBER 14
151 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
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/5 ........
TUESDAY, JULY 6, 1993
- 5 -
10 APPLICATIONS RECEIVED FOR RESEARCH FUNDING t * ♦ * *
A TOTAL OF 10 APPLICATIONS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED UNDER THE $200 MILLION APPLIED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT SCHEME SINCE IT WAS LAUNCHED BY THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT EARLY THIS YEAR, THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF INDUSTRY, MISS DENISE YUE, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).
MISS YUE SAID THE APPLICATIONS FELL WITHIN TECHNOLOGY AREAS SUCH AS COMPUTER SOFTWARE, TELECOMMUNICATIONS, HEALTH CARE AND ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS.
THE AMOUNT OF FUNDS APPLIED FOR RANGES FROM BELOW A MILLION TO A FEW MILLION DOLLARS.
"NINE OF THE APPLICATIONS ARE BEING PROCESSED FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE HONG KONG APPLIED R&D FUND COMPANY, SET UP TO ADMINISTER THE SCHEME, WHILE ONE HAS BEEN REJECTED," SHE SAID.
MISS YUE SAID THE SCHEME WAS AN IMPORTANT INITIATIVE OF THE INDUSTRY AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (ITDC), THE GOVERNMENT’S PRINCIPAL ADVISORY BODY ON INDUSTRIAL AND TECHNOLGY MATTERS.
"THE OBJECTIVE OF THE SCHEME IS 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," SHE SAID.
MISS YUE SAID ALL COMPANIES INCORPORATED UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE OR STATUTORY BODIES SET UP UNDER THE LAWS OF HONG KONG WHICH UNDERTOOK R&D LOCALLY WERE ELIGIBLE FOR THE SCHEME.
"IN ASSESSING PROPOSALS, THE HONG KONG APPLIED R&D FUND COMPANY LIMITED WILL CONSIDER THEIR VIABILITY, TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY AND COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL.
"APPROVED FUNDS MAY MEET UP TO HALF OF THE PROJECT COST AND WILL BE DISBURSED TO THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS BY INSTALMENTS AT AGREED INTERVALS," SHE SAID.
APPLICATION FORMS FOR THE SCHEME CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE HONG KONG APPLIED R&D FUND COMPANY LIMITED AT ROOM 1445, 14TH FLOOR, OCEAN CENTRE, 5 CANTON ROAD, KOWLOON.
COMPLETED FORMS CAN BE RETURNED BY POST OR BY HAND TO THE COMPANY. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE BY TEL 737 2206.
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/6.........
TUESDAY, JULY 6, 1993
- 6 -
AIRPORT EXHIBITION FOR STUDENTS ******
ABOUT 9,000 STUDENTS HAVE ATTENDED TWO EXHIBITIONS ON THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME FOR SCHOOLS WHICH CLOSED TODAY (TUESDAY).
ORGANISED BY THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECTS CO-ORDINATION OFFICE, THE EXHIBITION WAS DESIGNED TO GIVE STUDENTS A GREATER AWARENESS AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE NEW AIRPORT AND NINE OTHER KEY PROJECTS.
THROUGH VIDEOS, MODELS AND PHOTOGRAPHIC DISPLAYS, STUDENTS LEARNT OF THE BENEFITS TO THE COMMUNITY WHEN THE PROGRAMME IS COMPLETED.
COPIES OF THE PAMPHLETS AND NEWSLETTERS ON THE PROGRAMME WERE ALSO DISTRIBUTED TO THE STUDENTS.
THE EXHIBITIONS WERE HELD ON JUNE 29 AND 30 AT THE EXHIBITION HALL OF THE HONG KONG CITY HALL. IT WAS THEN STAGED AT THE EXHIBITION GALLERY OF THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL YESTERDAY AND TODAY.
--------0-----------
SALT WATER CUT IN MONG KOK * * ♦ ♦
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN MONG KOK WILL GO OFF FROM 9 PM ON THURSDAY (JULY 8) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE CONNECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE PREMISES AT TONG MI ROAD, ARGYLE STREET, NATHAN ROAD, LAI CHI KOK ROAD AND PRICE EDWARD ROAD.
---------0-----------
n....
TUESDAY, JULY 6, 1993
7
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS *****
TENDER. DATE 6 JUL 93 6 JUL 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q327 H368
AMOUNT APPLIED HKD3,707 MN HKD1,39O MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HKD1,000 MN HKD400 MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 3.38 PCT 3.57 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 3.38 PCT 3.58 PCT
PRO RATA RATIO ABOUT 94 PCT ABOUT 73 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 3.43 PCT 3.59 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 12 JUL 1993 1 -
TENDER DATE 13 JUL 93 13 JUL 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q328 Y391
ISSUE DATE 14 JUL 93 14 JUL 93
MATURITY DATE 13 OCT 93 13 JUL 94
TENOR 91 DAYS 364 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HKD1,000 + 200 MN HKD300 + 90
--------0------------
/8 ........
TUESDAY, JULY 6, 1993
8
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 112.6 1,800 +1,000 2,800 NIL NIL 2,800 *-0.1* 6. 7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE 1 WEEK 2.90 PCT 14 MONTHS 2408 1 MONTH 3.15 PCT 17 MONTHS 2411 3 MONTHS 3.27 PCT 20 MONTHS 2502 6 MONTHS 3.50 PCT 23 MONTHS 2505 12 MONTHS 3.81 PCT TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 21,559 MN CLOSED JULY 6, 1993 FUND GOVERNMENT COUPON 4.375 4.625 4.75 3.75 BONDS PRICE 100.55 100.83 100.92 98.94 YIELD 3.90 4.03 4.19 4.39
- - 0 - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
CONTENTS PAG E NO.
FOREIGN SECRETARY’S BEIJING VISIT GIVES IMPULSE TO TALKS : GOVERNOR ................................................. £
CALL TO IMPROVE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY ....................... 1
DEMAND REMAINS STRONG IN PORT CONTAINER THROUGHPUT ...... 2
EXCO MEMBERS SEE PORT DEVELOPMENT ....................... 3
FEE RISE REPORTS DENIED ................................. 5
86,069 STUDENTS ALLOCATED SI SCHOOL PLACES .............. 5
TWO LOTS FOR PUBLIC AUCTION ............................. 7
THE 30,000TH VIETNAMESE RETURNED HOME ................... 7
PRE-WAR BUILDING TN WESTERN DECLARED DANGEROUS .......... 8
SRC MEETS PARENTS OF MUSIC STUDENTS ..................... g
CAMP FUN FOR 648 CYC MEMBERS ............................ g
ONE CANDIDATE NOMINATED FOR LFGCO BY-ELECTION ........... ]0
FRESH WATER CUT TN TSIM SHA TSUI ........................ 10
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
11
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
FOREIGN SECRETARY’S BEIJING VISIT GIVES IMPULSE TO TALKS : GOVERNOR * * * * ♦
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT HE THOUGHT THE MEETING BETWEEN THE BRITISH FOREIGN SECRETARY, THE RT HON DOUGLAS HURD, AND THE CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTER, MR QIAN QICHEN, IN BEIJING LATER THIS WEEK WOULD TAKE THINGS FORWARD.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER VISITING THE PRINCE PHILIP DENTAL HOSPITAL, MR PATTEN SAID HE HOPED THE MEETING WOULD HELP CONCENTRATE MINDS AND GIVE THE CURRENT SINO-BRITISH TALKS MORE IMPULSE TOWARDS A SATISFACTORY CONCLUSION.
ASKED IF HE AGREED HONG KONG WAS A POLITICAL CITY, AS MR HURD HAD STATED, THE GOVERNOR SAID ’’WHAT I THINK DOUGLAS HURD DID EXTREMELY ACCURATELY WAS TO DESCRIBE THE CONSEQUENCES OF ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL CHANGE, NOT JUST IN HONG KONG, BUT EVERYWHERE.”
’’LOOK AT OUR FREE PRESS, LOOK AT THE DEBATES AND DISCUSSIONS THAT TAKE PLACE IN DISTRICT BOARDS, TN MUNICIPAL COUNCILS, ON TELEVISION AND IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
’’WHEN YOU GET PEOPLE BECOMING BETTER OFF, BECOMING BETTER EDUCATED, WITH TELEVISION, WITH NEWSPAPERS, WITH SATELLITE TV, WITH CELLULAR TELEPHONE, THAT HAS AN EFFECT ON THEIR INTEREST IN WHAT’S GOING ON ABOUT THEM, AND IN THEIR INTEREST IN HAVING A SAY IN WHAT’S GOING ON ABOUT THEM,” HE SAID.
’’MORE SPECIFICALLY, 1 AM DELIGHTED THAT DOUGLAS HURD IS GOING TO PEKING ON THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, AND THAT HE IS ABLE TO SPEND SOME TIME WITH US IN HONG KONG TELLING US ABOUT HIS TALKS ON THE WAY BACK FROM PEKING ON FRIDAY EVENING.
’’THE SEVENTH ROUND OF TALKS THAT WE’VE HAD WITH MR JIANG ENZHU AND THE CHINESE TEAM HAVE, I THINK, GONE REASONABLY WELL AND I THINK, HAVE JUSTIFIED, THROUGH THE PROGRESS THEY’VE MADE, THE DECISION TO HAVE THE MEETING IN PEKING.”
- - 0 - -
CALL TO IMPROVE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY ******
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) CALLED ON TRADE UNIONS AND EMPLOYERS TO WORK WITH THE GOVERNMENT TO IMPROVE HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY RECORD.
SPEAKING DURING A MEETING WITH TRADE UNION LEADERS, MR LAU CHIN-SHEK, MR LEE CHEUK-YAN AND MR CHAN KAM-HONG, MR PATTEN SAID:
”WE MUST WORK TOGETHER TO BREAK THE CULTURE OF RECKLESSNESS WHICH IS MOST EVIDENT IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WHERE EVERY WORKER HAS A 30 PER CENT CHANCE OF BEING INJURED EVERY YEAR.”
/"WE HAVE
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
2
"WE HAVE TO REPLACE THE RECKLESSNESS CULTURE WITH A SAFETY CULTURE. WE NEED A GENERAL RECOGNITION THAT WORKERS OWE THEMSELVES, THEIR FAMILIES AND THEIR WORKMATES, A DUTY OF CARE."
DURING THE MEETING, MR PATTEN DESCRIBED THE GOVERNMENT’S GENERAL EFFORT TO IMPROVE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY.
HE ALSO EXPLAINED THE URGENT STEPS WHICH HAVE BEEN TAKEN FOLLOWING THE JAVA ROAD ACCIDENT ON JUNE 2.
MR PATTEN ASKED THE TRADE UNION LEADERS THREE QUESTIONS:
♦ WHAT CAN THE UNIONS DO TO CHANGE WORKERS’ ATTITUDES TO
SAFETY?
* WHAT ACTION WOULD THEY LIKE TO SEE CONTRACTORS AND SUBCONTRACTORS TAKE ON CONSTRUCTION SITES?
* WHAT FURTHER ACTION CAN THE GOVERNMENT TAKE?
THE GOVERNOR SAID HE FOUND THE MEETING VERY HELPFUL AND REPEATED HIS PLEDGE THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD WORK WITH THE UNIONS AND EMPLOYERS TO BRING ABOUT AN IMPROVEMENT IN HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY RECORD.
- - 0 - -
DEMAND REMAINS STRONG IN PORT CONTAINER THROUGHPUT
*****
HONG KONG’S OVERALL CONTAINER THROUGHPUT FOR THIS YEAR IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE TO GROW FROM A RECORD BASELINE OF 7.97 MILLION TEU’S (TWENTY-FOOT EQUIVALENT UNITS) LAST YEAR, AT PERCENTAGES IN EXCESS OF THE 14 PER CENT CONTAINER TERMINAL TRIGGERING MECHANISM FIGURE, THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR IAN DALE SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
ANNOUNCING THE LATEST CONTAINER THROUGHPUT STATISTICS FOR THIS YEAR, MR DALE SAID: "HONG KONG HANDLED A TOTAL OF 2,651,808 TEU’S DURING THE FIRST FOUR MONTHS, REPRESENTING A 19 PER CENT INCREASE OVER THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR."
WHILST THIS IS LESS THAN THE HUGE 29 PER CENT INCREASE THE PORT EXPERIENCED LAST YEAR, WHICH AGAIN PUT HONG KONG AT THE TOP OF THE WORLD LEAGUE TABLE, IT CLEARLY SHOWS A STEADY GROWTH OVER THE FOUR MONTHS OF THIS YEAR AND UNDERLINES THE CONTINUING DEMAND FOR HONG KONG’S MODERN AND EFFICIENT CONTAINER-HANDLING FACILITIES, HE SAID.
CONTAINER-HANDLING IN THE STREAM CONTINUES TO SHOW STRONG DEMAND, EQUALLING THE OVERALL THROUGHPUT INCREASE OF 19 PER CENT.
/RIVER TRADE
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 3 -
RIVER TRADE HAS ACHIEVED A MASSIVE 136 PER CENT INCREASE, ALTHOUGH THIS IS FROM A SMALL BASELINE OF 74,682 TEU’S FOR THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
COMMENTING ON FUTURE PROSPECTS, MR DALE SAID: "THERE IS EVERY REASON TO BELIEVE THAT THE STEADY INCREASE IN CONTAINER THROUGHPUT WE ARE NOW EXPERIENCING WILL CONTINUE.
"CONTAINER THROUGHPUT FORECASTS CLEARLY SHOW THE NEED FOR US TO FIRMLY MAINTAIN OUR SCHEDULE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW TERMINALS. IF WE ARE UNABLE TO MEET FULL DEMAND, WE RISK LOSING ELEMENTS OF THIS IMPORTANT TRADE."
THE FOLLOWING IS THE TABLE FOR THE COMPARATIVE CONTAINER STATISTICS IN TEU’S:
FIRST FOUR MONTHS OF 1992 FIRST FOUR MONTHS OF 1993 INCREASE PERCENTAGE
KWAI CHUNG CONTAINER TERMINALS 1 ,449,729 1 ,630,1 15 12.4%
STREAM AND ELSEWHERE 709,417 845,638 19.2%
RIVER TRADE 74,682 176,611 136.5%
TOTAL 2,228,317 2,651,808 19.0%
HONG KONG IS THE LARGEST CONTAINER PORT IN THE WORLD AND IS ALSO ONE OF THE BUSIEST PORTS IN TERMS OF VESSEL ARRIVALS AND CARGO AND PASSENGER THROUGHPUT.
- - 0-------
EXCO MEMBERS SEE PORT DEVELOPMENT * * * * *
THREE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS, MS ROSANNA WONG, PROFESSOR EDWARD CHEN AND MR ANDREW LI, THIS (WEDNESDAY) MORNING HAVE AN UPDATE ON THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN THE PORT OF HONG KONG.
THEY FIRST ATTENDED A BRIEFING AT THE MARINE DEPARTMENT AND THEN TOURED THE HARBOUR FOR 45 MINUTES BEFORE CALLING AT THE MODERN TERMINALS LTD (MTL).
ARRIVING AT THE MARINE DEPARTMENT AT 10.30 AM, THE PARTY WAS MET BY THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR IAN DALE, WHO BRIEFED MEMBERS ON VARIOUS ASPECTS OF THE PORT.
MARINE DEPARTMENT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ADMINISTERING THE PORT AND THE AUTONOMOUS HONG KONG SHIPPING REGISTER WHICH HAS A TOTAL FLEET AMOUNTING TO 7.6 MILLION GROSS REGISTERED TONNAGE.
/MEMBERS WERE .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
MEMBERS WERE TOLD THAT HONG KONG WAS THE BUSIEST CONTAINER PORT IN THE WORLD, HANDLING 7.97 MILLION 20-FOOT EQUIVALENT UNITS (TEU’S) IN 1992.
IT IS ALSO ONE OF THE BUSIEST WORLD PORTS IN TERMS OF VESSEL ARRIVALS AND CARGO AND PASSENGER THROUGHPUT.
JOINED BY THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MR GORDAN SIU AND THE SECRETARY, PORT DEVELOPMENT BOARD, MR TONY CLARK, THE PARTY THEN BOARDED THE LAUNCH "TIN HAU" TO SEE PORT FACILITIES FOR THEMSELVES, AND TO BE BRIEFED ON THE CURRENT AND PLANNED DEVELOPMENTS.
THE PORT DEVELOPMENT BOARD WAS SET UP IN 1990 TO KEEP DEVELOPMENT PLANS UP-TO-DATE AND TO ACT AS A LINK BETWEEN THE PRIVATE AND GOVERNMENT BODIES INVOLVED.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD ADVISES THE GOVERNOR, THROUGH THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, ON ALL ASPECTS OF PORT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT.
EN ROUTE, MEMBERS SAW THE BUSY ACTIVITIES AT THE EXISTING CONTAINER TERMINALS AND THE SOON-TO-BE-COMPLETED TERMINAL 8 IN STONECUTTERS ISLAND - THE FIRST OF ITS FOUR BERTHS WILL COME INTO OPERATION NEXT MONTH.
THEY LEARNT THAT OVERALL PORT TRAFFIC IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE TO GROW BY ABOUT 6.5 PER CENT A YEAR BETWEEN NOW AND 2011 WHEN TOTAL THROUGHPUT WILL REACH 284.2 MILLION TONNES.
TO MEET THE GROWING NEEDS OF HONG KONG AND CHINA, THE TERRITORY NEEDS A BIGGER PORT WITH A MUCH GREATER CAPACITY AND ROOM TO EXPAND.
MEMBERS THEN ALIGHTED AT BERTH 5 OF MTL WHERE THEY WERE MET BY THE CHAIRMAN, MR DAVID GLEDHILL AND THE MANAGING DIRECTOR, MR MARK LEESE.
THEY WERE TAKEN TO THE CONTROL ROOM FOR A BRIEFING ON TERMINAL OPERATIONS AND KWAI CHUNG CONTAINER PORT DEVELOPMENT.
MR. MARK LEESE TOLD MEMBERS THAT MTL OPENED HONG KONG’S FIRST CONTAINER TERMINAL IN 1972.
"SINCE THEN, IT HAS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE HONG KONG CONTAINER PORT’S GROWTH INTO THE WORLD’S BUSIEST CONTAINER FACILITY, HANDING 1.67 MILLION OF THE TERRITORY’S TOTAL CONTAINER THROUGHPUT," HE SAID.
MR LEESE EXPRESSED CONCERN OVER THE CONTINUED DELAYS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CONTAINER TERMINAL 9 WHICH WAS ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED TO COME ON STREAM IN MID 1995. IT WOULD HAVE FOUR BERTHS WITH A TOTAL CAPACITY OF 1.6 MILLION TEUS A YEAR.
MTL IS A PRIVATE COMPANY WITH SHAREHOLDERS REPRESENTING A WIDE RANGE OF INTERNATIONAL INTEREST GROUPS, INCLUDING USER SHIPPING LINES, HONG KONG AND PRC CORPORATIONS.
THE PARTY THEN JOINED THE REST OF THE MTL MANAGEMENT FOR LUNCH BEFORE EMBARKING ON THEIR RETURN JOURNEY.
------0-----------
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 5 -
FEE RISE REPORTS DENIED *****
COMMENTING ON PRESS REPORTS TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT FEES FOR THIRD-CLASS BEDS IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS WOULD BE GRADUALLY INCREASED FROM THE PRESENT $43 A DAY TO $430 A DAY, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH SAID THIS WAS INCORRECT.
HE SAID THE REPORTS, IF NOT CORRECTED, WOULD CAUSE UNNECESSARY ALARM AS WELL AS PERPETUATE MISUNDERSTANDING AMONG THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
THE REPORTS ALSO DISTORT THE TRUE CONTENTS OF A CONSULTATION DOCUMENT ON HEALTH CARE DUE TO BE TABLED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL NEXT WEDNESDAY (JULY 14), FOLLOWED BY A THREE-MONTH PUBLIC CONSULTATION.
"TN FACT, THE DOCUMENT TAKES STOCK OF CURRENT HEALTH SERVICES AND OFFERS A NUMBER OF OPTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE COMMUNITY IN ORDER TO MEET FUTURE NEEDS OF OUR HEALTH CARE SYSTEM, BUILDING ON THE SOUND FOUNDATION OF THE EXISTING ONE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
COPIES OF THE DOCUMENT WILL BE AVAILABLE AT ALL DISTRICT OFFICES, PUBLIC HOSPITALS AND CLINICS.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO REAFFIRMED THAT THE EXISTING POLICY THAT NO ONE SHOULD BE DENIED ADEQUATE MEDICAL TREATMENT THROUGH LACK OF MEANS WOULD REMAIN PARAMOUNT.
------0------------
86,069 STUDENTS ALLOCATED SI SCHOOL PLACES ******
ALL PRIMARY SIX STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN THE SECONDARY SCHOOL PLACES ALLOCATION SYSTEM HAVE BEEN ALLOCATED SECONDARY ONE PLACES IN GOVERMENT, AIDED OR PRIVATE SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID 86,069 INCLUDING 3,781 (4.39 PER CENT) WHO HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN DISCRETIONARY PLACES, APPIJ ED EARLIER THIS YEAR.
STUDENTS, OBTAINING
OF THE TOTAL 41,418 (48.12 PER CENT) WERE ALLOCATED ACCORDING
TO THEIR FIRST CHOICE AND 60,966 (70.83 PER CENT) ACCORDING TO THEIR FIRST THREE CHOICES, THE SPOKESMAN SAJI).
’’ALL PLACES ALLOCATED ARE THREE-YEAR TUITION FEES WILL BE CHARGED, ’’ HE ADDED.
IN ADDITION, 11 STUDENTS HAVE BEEN SECONDARY SCHOOLS WHICH HAVE JOINED THE DIRECT
PLACES FOR WHICH NO
ADMITTED TO PRIVATE
SUBSIDY SCHEME.
ALLOCATION RESULTS WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM PRIMARY SCHOOLS ON FRIDAY (JULY 9).
/STUDENTS SHOULD .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
6 -
STUDENTS SHOULD COLLECT THE ADMISSION AND ALLOCATION SLIPS IN THEIR PRIMARY SIX IDENTIFICATION FORM FROM THEIR SCHOOLS.
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THERE WOULD ONLY BE ONE REGISTRATION PERIOD, ON JULY 15 (THURSDAY) AND JULY 16 (FRIDAY) THIS YEAR.
"ALL STUDENTS MUST REPORT DURING THE REGISTRATION PERIOD TO THE SECONDARY SCHOOLS TO WHICH THEY HAVE BEEN ALLOCATED. FAILING TO DO SO MAY MEAN THAT THEY HAVE CHOSEN NOT TO TAKE UP THE PLACES," HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT IF BOTH THE STUDENT AND THE PARENT/GUARDIAN WERE AWAY FROM HONG KONG DURING THE REGISTRATION PERIOD, THEY SHOULD AUTHORISE, IN WRITING, REPRESENTATIVES TO REGISTER ON THEIR BEHALF.
COPIES OF LETTERS OF AUTHORISATION ARE OBTAINABLE FROM HEADS OF PRIMARY SCHOOLS.
IN CASE OF GENUINE DIFFICULTIES THE PARENTS OR STUDENTS SHOULD INFORM THE SECONDARY SCHOOL PLACES ALLOCATION SECTION BEFORE THE END OF THE REGISTRATION PERIOD SO THAT ALTERNATIVE ARRANGEMENTS MAY BE MADE.
"AFTER THE REGISTRATION PERIOD, VACANCIES WILL BE FILLED AT THE ENTIRE DISCRETION OF INDIVIDUAL SCHOOLS," HE ADDED.
WHEN REPORTING FOR REGISTRATION, STUDENTS SHOULD WEAR THEIR SCHOOL UNIFORMS AND BRING THE FOLLOWING:
* PRIMARY SIX IDENTIFICATION FORMS, TO WHICH THEIR INDIVIDUAL ALLOCATION SLIPS ARE ATTACHED;
♦ THE ADMISSION SLIPS;
* BIRTH CERTIFICATES, HONG KONG JUVENILE IDENTITY CARDS OR OTHER DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE OF THEIR DATE OF BIRTH AND THEIR STATUS AS PERMANENT RESIDENTS OF HONG KONG;
* LATEST SCHOOL REPORTS, IF ANY; AND
* TWO RECENT PASSPORT-SIZE PHOTOGRAPHS.
"PARENTS SEEKING TRANSFER FOR THEIR CHILDREN SHOULD DIRECTLY APPROACH THE SCHOOLS OF THEIR CHOICE FOR APPLICATION. ACCEPTANCE IS AT THE ENTIRE DISCRETION OF THE SCHOOLS," HE SAID.
SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS HAVE TO RETRIEVE THE ADMISSION SLIPS FROM THE SECONDARY SCHOOLS WHICH THEY HAVE REGISTERED DURING THE REGISTRATION PERIOD AND HAND THEM TO THE SCHOOLS OF TRANSFER.
"PARENTS OR STUDENTS ARE REMINDED THAT BY RETRIEVING THEIR ADMISSION SLIPS, THEIR. REGISTRATION WITH THE SCHOOLS WILL BE CANCELLED." HE SAID.
/•'SHOULD THE.........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
’’SHOULD THE TERRITORY BE AFFECTED BY TROPICAL CYCLONES, PERSISTENT HEAVY RAIN OR THUNDERSTORM DURING THE REGISTRATION PERIOD, HEADS OF SCHOOLS AND PARENTS ARE ADVISED TO LISTEN TO ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR ANY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
ANY ENQUIRIES CONCERNING THE ALLOCATION RESULTS SHOULD BE REFERRED TO THE SECONDARY SCHOOL PLACES ALLOCATION SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ON TEL 891 2200 DURING OFFICE HOURS.
--------0-----------
TWO LOTS FOR PUBLIC AUCTION
*****
TWO LOTS OF GOVERNMENT LAND WILL BE OFFERED FOR SALE AT A PUBLIC AUCTION ON FRIDAY (JULY 9).
THE AUCTION WILL BE HELD AT 2.30 PM IN THE THEATRE OF THE HONG KONG CITY HALL.
THE FIRST LOT IS IN AREA 10B, TUEN MUN, NEW TERRITORIES. WITH AN AREA OF ABOUT 2,783 SQUARE METRES, IT IS INTENDED FOR NON-INDUSTRIAL (EXCLUDING GODOWN) PURPOSES.
THE SECOND LOT IS AT TOWN PARK ROAD SOUTH, YUEN LONG, NEW TERRITORIES, IT HAS AN AREA OF ABOUT 10,320 SQUARE METRES EARMARKED FOR PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE AUCTION.
A PRESS AREA WILL BE DESIGNATED. PHOTOGRAPHERS ARE ADVISED TO BRING ALONG TELEPHOTO LENSES.
---------0-----------
THF 30.000TH VIETNAMESE RETURNED HOME *****
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WELCOMED THE LANDMARK OF THE 30.000TH VIETNAMESE TO RETURN TO VIETNAM UNDER THE VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME OF THE UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR REFUGEES.
HE NOTED THAT ALMOST 4,000 MIGRANTS HAVE RETURNED TO VIETNAM UNDER THIS PROGRAMME SINCE JANUARY THIS YEAR.
WITH MORE THAN 1,400 VOLUNTEERS AWAITING TO RETURN HOME IN THE TWO REPATRIATION CENTRES IN WHITEHEAD, THERE ARE SIGNS THAT THE VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME IS BEGINNING TO REGAIN ITS MOMENTUM.
/"PAST EXPERIENCE .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
8
"PAST EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT THE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS NORMALLY INCREASES TOWARDS THE LATTER HALF OF THE YEAR AND WE HOPE THAT THE HIGH RATE OF DEPARTURES ESTABLISHED IN LATE 1992 WILL RE-EMERGE IN COMING MONTHS," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
THE BATCH REUTRNED TODAY COMPRISES 112 MEN, 68 WOMEN, 45 BOYS AND 40 GIRLS.
--------0-----------
PRE-WAR BUILDING IN WESTERN DECLARED DANGEROUS
*****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY TODAY (WEDNESDAY) DECLARED A FOUR-STOREY PRE-WAR BUILDING AT 16 BONHAM ROAD IN WESTERN DISTRICT TO BE DANGEROUS.
THE BUILDING CONSISTS OF FRONT AND REAR BLOCKS CONNECTED BY BRIDGES.
THE FRONT BLOCK HAS TIMBER AND REINFORCED CONCRETE FLOORS WITH LOAD-BEARING BRICK AND MASONRY WALLS WHILE THE REAR KITCHEN BLOCK HAS CONCRETE FLOOR AND LOAD-BEARING BRICK WALLS.
RECENT INSPECTIONS SHOWED THAT THE PARTY WALL COMMON WITH 12 BONHAM ROAD HAD MOVED. THE ADJOINING BRICK ARCHES AND THE FRONT PORCH/ STAIRCASE AREA HAD ALSO MOVED.
OUTWARD MOVEMENT OF THE FRONT PORCH/STAIRCASE AREA AND THE SEVERELY FRACTURED ARCHES GAVE RISE TO CONCERN FOR THE SAFETY OF THE OCCUPANTS.
TEMPORARY STEEL SHORINGS WERE ERECTED BY A GOVERNMENT-APPOINTED CONTRACTOR LAST MONTH TO PREVENT A POSSIBLE COLLAPSE.
MEANWHILE, MOVEMENT OF THE PARTY WALL HAS CAUSED A 20-MILLIMETRE GAP BETWEEN THE GROUND FLOOR SLAB AND THE WALL, AND SEVERE CRACKS ARE FOUND IN THE ARCHES THROUGHOUT THE FRONT BLOCK, PARTICULARLY ON THE GROUND FLOOR WHERE AT LEAST ONE ARCH HAS PARTIALLY COLLAPSED.
THEREFORE, THE BUILDING SHOULD BE CLOSED AND DEMOLISHED AS BEING DANGEROUS.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON AUGUST 10 WAS POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY.
ORDERS REQUIRING THE DEMOLITION OF THE BUILDING WILL BE SERVED ONTO THE OWNERS CONCERNED SHORTLY.
- - 0----------
/9 ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
9
SRC MEETS PARENTS OF MUSIC STUDENTS *******
THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) MET WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MUSIC OFFICE PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION.
THE MEETING WAS FRIENDLY AND CONSTRUCTIVE. THERE WAS USEFUL EXCHANGE OF VIEWS ON THE PROPOSAL TO TRANSFER ALL OR PART OF THE WORK OF THE MUSIC OFFICE TO THE NON-GOVERNMENT SECTOR, AS PROPOSED IN THE ARTS POLICY REVIEW REPORT.
MR SO REASSURED THE PARENTS THAT THE PROPOSAL WAS STILL UNDER ACTIVE CONSIDERATION AFTER RECEIVING A WIDE RANGE OF PUBLIC VIEWS AND COMMENTS IN THE PAST FEW MONTHS.
MR SO ASSURED THE PARENTS THAT IF APPROVED, ALL THE TRAINEES WOULD BE ABLE TO CONTINUE THEIR TRAINING AT ONE OF THE FIVE EXISTING REGIONAL MUSIC CENTRES.
FEES TOO WOULD BE SET AT A REALISTIC LEVEL AFFORDABLE TO PARENTS, ALTHOUGH MR SO POINTED OUT THAT IT WOULD BE NORMAL PRACTICE FOR SUCH FEES TO BE REVIEWED FROM TIME TO TIME.
HE STRESSED THAT THE NON-GOVERNMENT SECTOR WITH SUITABLE EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE BUT WITHOUT THE CONSTRAINTS AND FETTERS OF A GOVERNMENT OFFICE WOULD BE ABLE TO CARRY OUT THE WORK OF THE MUSIC OFFICE MORE PROFESSIONALLY AND EFFECTIVELY AND ACHIEVE BETTER VALUE FOR MONEY.
REFERRING TO THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS (APA), MR SO POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS ALREADY PROVIDING ABOUT 500 YOUNG STUDENTS WITH MUSIC TRAINING AT JUNIOR LEVEL, WHICH WAS VERY SIMILAR IN NATURE TO THE MUSIC OFFICE’S TRAINING PROGRAMMES.
HE EMPHASISED THAT THE APA WAS JUST ONE OF THE POSSIBILITIES BEING CONSIDERED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
---------0-----------
CAMP FUN FOR 648 CYC MEMBERS
*****
STARTING FROM TODAY (WEDNESDAY) OVER 648 COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB (CYC) MEMBERS FROM SECONDARY SCHOOLS ARE ENJOYING A THREE-DAY COMMUNITY SERVICE CAMP AT THE WU KAI SHA YOUTH VILLAGE.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID THE CAMP WAS AN ACTIVITY TO CELEBRATE THE 1 5TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SCHEME WHICH WAS SET UP IN 1978.
"THROUGH THIS CAMP, WE ALSO HOPE TO PROMOTE CIVIC AWARENESS AMONG CYC MEMBERS; PROVIDE THE CAMPERS WITH LEADERSHIP TRAINING AND SHARE EXPERIENCE IN COMMUNITY SERVICE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
/THE ASSISTANT’.........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 10 -
THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OE EDUCATION (CHIEF INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS), MR HO CHE-LEUNG, WILL HE INVITED TO OFFICIATE AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF COMMUNITY SERVICE CAMP ON FRIDAY.
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CLOSING CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT THE WU KAI SHA YOUTH VILLAGE, MA ON SHAN, NEW TERRITORIES, AT 10.30 AM ON FRIDAY (JULY 9).
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ONE CANDIDATE
NOMINATED FOR LEGCO BY-ELECTION
*****
ONE CANDIDATE HAS BEEN NOMINATED FOR THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN RESPECT OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCY TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE IS 41-YEAR-OLD MR TSO SHIU-WAI, A COMPANY DIRECTOR. HIS CONTACT TELEPHONE IS 459 7667.
THIS BRINGS TO ONE THE TOTAL NUMBER OF NOMINATIONS RECEIVED SINCE THE TWO-WEEK NOMINATION PERIOD BEGAN ON JUNE 25.
THE BY-ELECTION WILL BE HELD ON JULY 28 TO FILL THE SEAT OF MR GILBERT LEUNG KAM-HO.
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FRESH WATER CUT IN TSIM SHA TSUI *****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN TSIM SHA TSUI WILL OFF FROM 11 PM ON FRIDAY (JULY 9) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
GO
TO
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE AND THOSE BOUNDED BY NATHAN ROAD, PEKING ROAD.
PREMISES AT SALISBURY ROAD ROAD, ASHLEY ROAD AND MIDDLE
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
11 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,800 REVERSAL OF LAF NIL BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,800 NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY CLOSING BALANCE IN THE LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 ACCOUNT OFFER TW1 112.5 -220 2,580 *-0.1* 7.7.93
EF TERMS 1 WEEK 1 MONTH 3 MONTHS 6 MONTHS 12 MONTHS HONG BILLS YIELD 2.55 PCT 3.02 PCT 3.27 PCT 3.50 PCT 3.87 PCT KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE EF NOTES/HONG KONG TERM ISSUE 13 MONTHS 2408 16 MONTHS 2411 19 MONTHS 2502 22 MONTHS 2505 FUND GOVERNMENT BONDS COUPON PRICE 4.375 100.50 4.625 100.78 4.75 100.84 3.75 98.87 YIELD 3.95 4.07 4.25 4.44
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 32,434 MN
CLOSED JULY 7, 1993
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUPPLEMENT
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL:
MEASURES TAKEN TO PREVENT SHARK ATTACKS .................. 1
MORE INSPECTIONS OF PASSENGER HOISTS IN THE PIPELINE ..... 2
CORONER'S RECOMMENDATIONS ON SAFE USE OF PASSENGER HOISTS ADOPTED .................................................... 3
GOOD PROGRESS IN REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT .................... 4
REPORTS ON INTERNATIONAL TREATIES ........................ 4
CENTRAL/MID-LEVELS ESCALATOR READY IN SEPTEMBER .......... 5
PROPOSALS ON RETIREMENT PROTECTION SYSTEM UNDER STUDY .... 6
APPEAL PROCEDURES REVIEWED ............................... 6
CRITERIA FOR EXTENDING SERVICE OF OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS 7
36 BUS FIRES IN PAST THREE YEARS ......................... 8
RED LIGHT CAMERA SCHEME A SUCCESS ........................ 9
ADDITIONAL TUNNEL SAFETY MEASURES BEING CONSIDERED ....... 9
AIRPORT IMMIGRATION CLEARANCE TIME FAVOURABLE ............ 10
USE OF MOBILE TELEPHONE WHILE DRIVING IS DISCOURAGED ..... 11
COMPLAINTS SYSTEM AGAINST REGISTERED SURVEYORS TO STAY ... 12
HOUSING AUTHORITY'S GAS SUPPLY POLICY EXPLAINED .......... 12
/CONSERVATION OF
CONSERVATION OF COUNTRY PARKS AND RURAL LANDSCAPE .............. 13
CRIME INFORMATION FORMS HELP POLICE INVESTIGATION .............. 13
BRIDGING COURSE FOR STUDENTS SEEKING TRANSFER TO PRE-VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS ....................................... 14
GOVT TO CONSIDER RAIL LINK TO TUEN MUN ......................... 15
SPEECH OF SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL
CARTLAND IN MOTION DEBATE ON POLICY ON SERVICE INDUSTRY IN LEGCO ....................................................... 16
BILL AMENDED TO CONFORM WITH BILL OF RIGHTS .................... 22
MORE LEGAL MUSCLES PROPOSED TO REGULATE LISTED COMPANIES .... 23
BILL TO REGULATE STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING ........................ 24
MORE EFFECTIVE BANK SUPERVISION PROPOSED ....................... 25
PRELIMINARY INSPECTIONS ON COMPANIES ........................... 26
SECURITIES LEVY TO BE ORDERLY SUSPENDED ........................ 27
RIGHT OF PNEUMOCONIOTICS ASSURED ............................... 28
LAND DRAINAGE BILL INTRODUCED INTO LEGCO ....................... 29
RESOLUTIONS ON CMB AND CITYBUS FRANCHISE PASSED ................ 30
LEGCO PASSES MOTION ON SERVICE INDUSTRY ........................ 31
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
MEASURES TAKEN TO PREVENT SHARK ATTACKS
THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS TAKING STEPS TO LAY SHARK PREVENTION NETS ON AN EXPERIMENTAL BASIS AT SELECTED POPULAR BEACHES, THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, SAID.
THIS IS IN ADDITION TO THE MEASURES BEING TAKEN BY A NUMBER OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM, HE ADDED.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHIM PUI-CHUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR SO SAID AN INTER-DEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP, CHAIRED BY A DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MET ON JUNE 18 TO CO-ORDINATE VARIOUS MEASURES.
THE GROUP COMPRISES REPRESENTATIVES OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT, THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, THE POLICE, THE MARINE DEPARTMENT AND THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION.
IT HAS DECIDED THAT THE MEASURES CURRENTLY UNDERTAKEN BY THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS AND THE VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS WOULb CONTINUE.
THESE INCLUDE THE HOISTING OF SHARK WARNING SIGNALS AND RED FLAGS ON AFFECTED AND NEARBY BEACHES, GIVING VERBAL WARNINGS THROUGH THE PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEM EVERY 15 MINUTES TO WARN SWIMMERS AGAINST ENTERING THE WATER, AND KEEPING A CLOSE WATCH ON NEARBY WATERS AND CONSTANT PATROL IN THE VICINITY OF THE SWIMMING AREA IN MOTORISED RESCUE CRAFT BY LIFEGUARDS.
OTHER PRECAUTIONS TO BE ADOPTED INCLUDE:
* DEPLOY MORE LIFEGUARDS IN AFFECTED AREAS AND IN SOME OF THE MORE POPULAR BEACHES, AND STEP UP SURVEILLANCE BY THE USE OF ADDITIONAL MOTORISED BOATS;
t OPEN SOME PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS EARLIER TO CATER FOR EARLY-MORNING SWIMMERS; AND
* WIDELY DISTRIBUTE PAMPHLETS AND POSTERS ON MEASURES TO AVOID SHARK ATTACKS.
MR SO ALSO TOLD THE COUNCIL THAT THREE CASES OF SUSPECTED SHARK ATTACKS OCCURRED IN HONG KONG WATERS OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS.
IN THE FIRST CASE, A 65-YF.AR-OLD WOMAN WAS KILLED WHILE SWIMMING ABOUT 500 METRES OFF SILVERSTRAND BEACH, SAI KUNG, ABOUT 6.35 AM ON JUNE 8, 1991 .
THE SECOND CASE INVOLVED A 42-YEAR-OLD MAN WHO WAS FATALLY WOUNDED WHILE SWIMMING ABOUT 150 METRES OFF SHEUNG SZ WAN, SAI KUNG, ABOUT 8 AM ON JUNE 1 THIS YEAR.
IN THE THIRD CASE, A 61-YEAR-OLD MAN WAS FATALLY ATTACKED BY A SHARK WHILE SWIMMING ABOUT THREE METRES OFF SILVERSTRAND BEACH, SAI KUNG, ABOUT 7.30 AM ON JUNE 11 THIS YEAR.
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 2 -
MORE INSPECTIONS OF PASSENGER HOISTS IN THE PIPELINE ******
THE NEED FOR SPECIAL INSPECTION ARRANGEMENT FOR PASSENGER HOISTS IN THE LONGER TERM WILL BE A SUBJECT FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE WORKING GROUP SET UP UNDER THE WORKS BRANCH TO LOOK INTO FURTHER MEANS OF ENHANCING THE SAFE USE OF HEAVY MACHINERIES AND LIFTING APPLIANCES ON CONSTRUCTION SITES, INCLUDING PASSENGER HOISTS.
IN THE MEANTIME, A CODE OF PRACTICE ON PASSENGER HOISTS WILL BE PREPARED WITH A VIEW TO RATIONALISING THE STANDARDS IN CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE, TESTING AND EXAMINATION OF SUCH EQUIPMENT.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON SAMUEL WONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE SECRETARY NOTED THAT IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE PASSENGER HOIST ACCIDENT AT JAVA ROAD, THE GOVERNMENT HAD CARRIED OUT ONE ROUND OF INSPECTION AND A SECOND ROUND WAS STILL ONGOING.
THE FIRST ROUND COVERING 86 HOISTS MAINLY FOCUSED ON WHETHER CONTRACTORS HAD COMPLIED WITH SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF THE LAW.
"THESE INCLUDE THE PROVISION OF AN EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT FALL ARRESTER, INTERLOCKING DEVICES FOR THE GATES, THE NOTICE FOR THE SAFE WORKING LOAD AND THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF PERSONS ALLOWED TO BE CARRIED, THE RELEVANT CERTIFICATES AND REPORTS OF TEST, EXAMINATIONS AND INSPECTIONS UNDER THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE CONSTRUCTION SITES (SAFETY) REGULATIONS,” SAID MR LEUNG.
"NO OTHER IRREGULARITIES WERE FOUND APART FROM THOSE RELATING TO THE GATES."
HE NOTED THAT THE IRREGULARITIES CONSTITUTED OFFENCES UNDER THE CONSTRUCTION SITES (SAFETY) REGULATIONS AND AS A RESULT SIX SUMMONSES HAD BEEN TAKEN OUT AGAINST THE OFFENDERS.
IN THE SECOND ROUND OF JOINT INSPECTIONS BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, KNOWN AS THE SPECIAL RANDOM CHECK EXERCISE, INSPECTIONS ON THE HOIST CAGE, LANDINGS, HOISTWAY, ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AND A FULL-LOAD TEST WILL BE COVERED.
THE SAFETY DEVICE WHICH IS USED TO STOP THE HOIST FROM RAPID DESCENT DURING AN ACCIDENT WILL ALSO BE TESTED.
MR LEUNG SAID MORE INSPECTIONS OF SITES WITH HOISTS WOULD BE CARRIED OUT AND PROSECUTION ACTION TAKEN IF THERE WERE BREACHES OF THE RELEVANT SAFETY REGULATIONS.
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/3 ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
3
CORONER’S RECOMMENDATIONS ON SAFE USE OF PASSENGER HOISTS ADOPTED *♦♦♦♦♦
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID FOLLOWING THE TELFORD GARDEN CORONER’S INQUEST, THOSE RECOMMENDATIONS THAT WERE DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE SAFE USE OF PASSENGER HOISTS WERE ACCEPTED.
HOWEVER, HE ADDED, HAVING REGARD TO PRACTICES OVERSEAS, RECOMMENDATIONS WHICH GENERALLY FELL OUTSIDE THE AMBIT OF GOVERNMENT CONTROL WERE NOT IMPLEMENTED.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HENRY TANG YING-YEN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR LEUNG NOTED THAT ON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE COURT, THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY HAD DISCONTINUED THE USE OF ALL PASSENGER HOISTS OF THE SAME MODEL AS THE ONE IN TELFORD GARDEN AFTER IT HAI) BEEN ESTABLISHED THAT THE ACCIDENT WAS ATTRIBUTED TO THE DEFECTIVE DESIGN OF THE MODEL.
ON LEGISLATIVE CONTROL, ALL RELEVANT REQUIREMENTS WERE STUDIED TO ENSURE THAT THERE WERE ADEQUATE PROVISIONS IN INDUSTRIAL SAFETY LAWS.
HE SAID: "FOR EXAMPLE, REGULATIONS 17 AND 1« OF THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS REGULATIONS REQUIRE THE REPORTING OF ACCIDENTS AND DANGEROUS OCCURRENCES."
’’THIS WAS CONSISTENT WITH THE CORONER’S RECOMMENDATION REGARDING MANDATORY REPORTING OF INCIDENTS."
THE PROVISIONS UNDER THE CONSTRUCTION SITES (SAFETY) REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE SAFETY OF PASSENGER HOISTS WERE ALSO REVIEWED AND GENERALLY FOUND TO BE ADEQUATE.
AS REGARDS THE RECOMMENDATION TO REQUIRE THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TO CERTIFY THE STRUCTURAL SAFETY OF ALL HOIST TYPES, MR LEUNG SAID THIS WAS NOT CONSIDERED APPROPRIATE.
"SUCH RESPONSIBILITY SHOULD REST WITH THE MANUFACTURER AND OWNER OF A HOIST, SIMILAR TO THE PRACTICE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND MANY OTHER COUNTRIES.
"LIKEWISE, THE RECOMMENDATION PROPOSING THAT ANY MANUFACTURERS’ MODIFICATION SHOULD BE APPROVED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WAS NOT ADOPTED," MR LEUNG ADDED.
/4 .........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
4
GOOD PROGRESS IN REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT » » » » «
THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THAT GOOD PROGRESS HAD BEEN MADE IN RESETTLING VIETNAMESE REFUGEES.
"OUR AIM IS TO RESETTLE ALL VIETNAMESE REFUGEES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE," HE SAID.
NEARLY 1,300 HAVE LEFT HONG KONG SO FAR THIS YEAR, AND OVER 23,500 SINCE JANUARY 1989,
ON JULY 1, THERE WAS A TOTAL OF 2,231 VIETNAMESE REFUGEES IN THE TERRITORY,
OF THEM, 1,146 HAVE ALREADY BEEN ACCEPTED FOR RESETTLEMENT AND SHOULD BE DEPARTING OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MRS ELSIE TU, HE SAID THE REMAINING CASELOAD WAS BEING RE-EXAMINED BY THE OFFICE OF THE UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR REFUGEES (UNHCR) OR BEING CONSIDERED FOR RESETTLEMENT.
MR ASPREY SAID THERE WOULD BE DIFFICULTIES IN RESETTLING SOME OF THE REFUGEES IN THIS CATEGORY, PRINCIPALLY BECAUSE OF THEIR CRIMINAL RECORDS.
HOWEVER, HE SAID IT WOULD BE PREMATURE TO SEEK TO DEFINE THE EXACT NUMBER WHO MIGHT NEVER BE RESETTLED.
i
"WE KEEP IN CLOSE CONTACT WITH UNHCR AND THE CONSULATES OF THE RESETTLEMENT COUNTRIES, AND WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR THE SITUATION TO ENSURE THAT EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO SPEED UP THE RESETTLEMENT OF THOSE WHO HAVE NOT YET BEEN ACCEPTED FOR RESETTLEMENT," HE RAID.
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REPORTS ON INTERNATIONAL TREATIES » » * » »
THERE ARE FOUR INTERNATIONAL TREATIES UNDER WHICH THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT IS REQUIRED TO REPORT PERIODICALLY ON THE STATE OF THEIR IMPLEMENTATION IN HONG KONG, THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THEY ARE:
« INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF ALL FORMS OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION,
» INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS,
» INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS, AND
/* CONVENTION AGAINST ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
* CONVENTION AGAINST TORTURE AND OTHER CRUEL, INHUMAN OR DEGRADING TREATMENT OR PUNISHMENT.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHRISTINE LOH IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR SZE SAID THE GOVERNMENT CONTRIBUTED TO THE PREPARATION OF THE RELEVANT REPORTS BY PREPARING AND SUBMITTING TO THE UNITED KINGDOM GOVERNMENT DRAFT REPORTS IN RESPECT OF HONG KONG.
"THE DUE DATES FOR THE NEXT REPORTS UNDER THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS AND THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS BOTH FALL IN JUNE 1994," HE SAID.
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CENTRAL/MID-LEVELS ESCALATOR READY IN SEPTEMBER
*****
THE CENTRAL TO MID-LEVELS ESCALATOR SYSTEM IS EXPECTED TO BE READY FOR USE IN LATE SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MRS MIRIAM LAU TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR YEUNG SAID TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF USERS AND TO PREVENT VANDALISM, THE ESCALATOR SYSTEM WOULD BE PATROLLED BY FOUR ATTENDANTS DURING THE OPERATING HOURS OF 6 AM TO 10 PM EACH DAY.
HE SAID THE OFFICER IN CHARGE OF THE SYSTEM WOULD BE ACCOMMODATED IN A CONTROL ROOM ON CAINE ROAD WHERE HE WOULD BE ABLE TO MONITOR THE WHOLE SYSTEM BY CLOSED CIRCUIT TELEVISION.
HE WILL ALSO BE ABLE TO DIRECT USERS AND ISSUE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS THROUGH A PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEM.
BOTH THE CLOSED CIRCUIT TELEVISION SYSTEM AND THE PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEM WILL BE CONNECTED TO THE POLICE REGIONAL COMMAND AND CONTROL CENTRE, HONG KONG ISLAND.
MR YEUNG SAID WATCHMEN WOULD BE DEPLOYED TO PREVENT VANDALISM OUTSIDE OPERATING HOURS.
A PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN, INCLUDING THE DISTRIBUTION OF A USERS’ GUIDE TO THE SYSTEM, LEAFLETS, POSTERS AND PRESS RELEASES, IS BEING ORGANISED TO EDUCATE THE PUBLIC' IN THE USE OF THE NEW SYSTEM, MR YEUNG SAID.
NOTICES WOULD ALSO BE PROMINENTLY DISPLAYED AT ENTRANCES TO THE SYSTEM ADVISING THE PUBLIC ON ITS SAFE USAGE, HE ADDED.
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
PROPOSALS ON RETIREMENT PROTECTION SYSTEM UNDER STUDY t ft * * * *
THE FUTURE OF A RETIREMENT PROTECTION SYSTEM IS A HIGHLY COMPLEX SUBJECT, INVOLVING A SERIES OF DIFFICULT JUDGEMENTS WHICH WILL HAVE PROFOUND CONSEQUENCES ON THE LONG-TERM SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, FINANCIAL AND MONETARY POLICIES.
"IT IS NOT THEREFORE AN ISSUE THAT WE CAN AFFORD TO RUSH TO A CONCLUSION," THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID WHEN REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HUI YIN-FAT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR LEUNG NOTED THAT DURING THE MOTION DEBATE ON THE SUBJECT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON FEBRUARY 3, A NUMBER OF MAJOR ISSUES WERE RAISED.
THESE, TOGETHER WITH THE 176 PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS MADE IN RESPONSE TO THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT, ARE NOW BEING ANALYSED AND STUDIED CAREFULLY WITHIN THE ADMINISTRATION.
THE MAJOR ISSUES INCLUDE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN A COMPULSORY RETIREMENT PROTECTION SYSTEM AND THE EXISTING SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM; AND WHETHER THERE SHOULD BE GOVERNMENT GUARANTEE AGAINST FINANCIAL RISKS ARISING FROM PRIVATE MANAGEMENT OF DECENTRALISED SCHEMES.
"I CAN HOWEVER ASSURE THIS COUNCIL THAT WE ARE ALREADY HANDLING THE SUBJECT AS QUICKLY AS WE CAN," MR LEUNG SAID.
"WE AIM TO REACH A MORE DEFINITE CONCLUSION ON THE BEST WAY FORWARD BY THE END OF THIS YEAR," HE ADDED.
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APPEAL PROCEDURES REVIEWED * * * * *
IN THE COURSE OF THE INVESTIGATION OF A RECENT CASE, THE JUDICIARY HAS TAKEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO REVIEW COMPLETELY ITS PROCEDURES ON APPEALS AGAINST DECISIONS MADE BY THE OBSCENE ARTICLES TRIBUNAL, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORI), SAID.
IT HAS ALREADY MADE THE NECESSARY IMPROVEMENTS, HE SAID.
RECOUNTING THE CASE IN HIS WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON EMILY LAU IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), SIR DAVID SAID ANY PARTY TO ANY PROCEEDINGS BEFORE THE TRIBUNAL MAY APPEAL TO THE HIGH COURT AGAINST ITS DECISION ON A POINT OF LAW BY GIVING NOTICE OF APPEAL TO THE REGISTRAR OF SUPREME COURT.
WHERE SUCH NOTICE IS GIVEN, THE REGISTRAR IS REQUIRED TO FIX A DATE FOR THE HEARING OF THE APPEAL WITHIN A PERIOD OF UP TO 56 DAYS.
/THE DATE
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
THE DATE IS FIXED NORMALLY BY THE CLERK OF COURT ON BEHALF OF THE REGISTRAR WHEN THE RELEVANT DOCUMENTS ARE RECEIVED FROM THE TRIBUNAL.
SIR DAVID SAID IN THE RECENT CASE, THE DOCUMENTS FROM THE TRIBUNAL ARRIVED LATER THAN USUAL.
"BY THE TIME THE CLERK OF COURT SAW THE PARTIES TO FIX A DATE FOR THE HEARING, THE TIME LIMIT FOR FIXING THE DATE HAD ALREADY EXPIRED," HE SAID.
THE CROWN THUS OBJECTED TO THE APPEAL BEING LISTED AND THE CLERK OF COURT DECIDED TO DECLINE TO FIX A DATE FOR THE HEARING.
THE APPEAL PARTY THEN ISSUED FORMAL PROCEEDINGS IN THE HIGH COURT FOR AN ORDER REQUIRING THE REGISTRAR TO FIX A DATE AND THE JUDGE RULED IN FAVOUR OF THE APPEAL PARTY.
ALSO AN ORDER FOR COST WAS MADE AGAINST THE REGISTRAR.
SIR DAVID SAID IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE COURT RULING, THE REGISTRAR ORDERED AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE CASE.
"IT TRANSPIRED THAT THE CLERK OF COURT HAD, IN HIS OWN BETTER JUDGMENT, TAKEN THE DECISION TO REFUSE TO FIX THE DATE FOR HEARING THE APPEAL.
"THE CASE COULD HAVE BEEN REFERRED TO THE PRACTICE MASTER IN THE REGISTRY FOR GUIDANCE," HE SAID.
THE PRACTICE MASTER WAS ABLE TO GIVE ANY DIRECTIONS WHICH MIGHT BE REQUIRED ON QUESTIONS OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE, INCLUDING DIRECTING THE CLERK OF COURT TO SET THE APPEAL DOWN.
"HAVING EXAMINED THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE CASE, THE REGISTRAR CONCLUDED THAT THE DECISION OF THE CLERK OF COURT WAS AN ERROR OF JUDGMENT."
"IT DID NOT INVOLVE DERELICTION OF DUTY ON THE PART OF ANY OFFICIALS," SIR DAVID SAID.
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CRITERIA FOR EXTENDING SERVICE OF OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS ******
THERE ARE AT PRESENT 20 OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS OVER THE AGE OF 60 SERVING 16 RANKS IN NINE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, MRS ANSON CHAN, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHEUNG MAN-KWONG, MRS CHAN SAID THE FURTHER EMPLOYMENT OF AN AGREEMENT OFFICER BEYOND THE AGE OF 60 WAS CONSIDERED ONLY IN VERY EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES.
/"THE OFFICER .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
8
"THE OFFICER HAS TO BE OF GOOD CONDUCT AND PERFORMANCE AND ALSO PHYSICALLY FIT," SHE SAID.
"HE MAY BE FURTHER EMPLOYED BEYOND THE AGE OF 60 IF THERE IS A STRONG NEED FOR HIS SERVICE TO BE RETAINED."
HOWEVER, THIS WILL BE BASED ON AN ASSESSMENT AGAINST THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:
* THERE ARE RECRUITMENT, RETENTION AND SUCCESSION PROBLEMS;
* THERE ARE SPECIALIST AND/OR OPERATIONAL GROUNDS FOR RETAINING THE OFFICER;
* THE EXTENSION OF SERVICE IS REQUIRED TO MAINTAIN AN ADEQUATE LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE IN THE RANK; AND
* THE FURTHER EMPLOYMENT WILL NOT CAUSE A PROMOTION BLOCKAGE.
MRS CHAN POINTED OUT THAT THESE CRITERIA AND PROCEDURES APPLIED TO BOTH OVERSEAS AND LOCAL OFFICERS AND THAT DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATIONS ON SUCH FURTHER EMPLOYMENT MUST BE PUT TO THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION FOR ADVICE BEFORE APPROVAL.
"IN THE CASE OF AN OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICER, IN ADDITION TO THE CRITERIA OUTLINED ABOVE, FURTHER EMPLOYMENT BEYOND THE AGE OF 60 IS CONSIDERED ONLY WHERE NO SUITABLE LOCAL REPLACEMENT IS AVAILABLE," SHE ADDED.
36 BUS FIRES IN PAST THREE YEARS
*****
THERE WERE 36 CASES OF BUSES CATCHING FIRE WHILE CARRYING PASSENGERS BETWEEN 1990 AND 1992, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE SAID ACCORDING TO THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, THESE FIRES WERE BELIEVED TO HAVE RESULTED FROM A VARIETY OF CAUSES INCLUDING COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS COMING INTO CONTACT WITH THE EXTERNAL WALLS OF THE HOT ENGINE AND/OR EXHAUST PIPE, ELECTRICAL SHORT-CIRCUITING AND DISCARDED LIGHTED SMOKING MATERIALS.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ZACHARY WONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR YEUNG NOTED THAT BUS CHASSIS WERE NORMALLY DESIGNED AND FITTED WITH FIRE PREVENTION FEATURES, SUCH AS SHIELDS TO PREVENT GREASE BEING THROWN ONTO HOT EXHAUST PIPES AND INSULATION OF ELECTRIC WIRING SYSTEMS.
"THESE FITTINGS AND EQUIPMENT AS WELL AS ALL OTHER PARTS OF A BUS ARE SUBJECTED TO VIGOROUS ANNUAL INSPECTIONS BY THE VEHICLE EXAMINERS OF THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT BEFORE THEIR LICENCES ARE RENEWED UNDER THE ROAD TRAFFIC ORDINANCE AND ITS SUBSIDIARY LEGISLATION.
/"IN ADDITION.........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
9 -
"IN ADDITION, SPOT CHECKS ARE CARRIED OUT BY THE DEPARTMENT TO ENSURE THAT THE BUSES ARE IN A SATISFACTORY SAFE OPERATING CONDITION," MR YEUNG SAID.
AS A PRECAUTION, THE ORDINANCE ALSO REQUIRES ALL BUSES TO CARRY FIRE EXTINGUISHERS. THESE ARE REGULARLY INSPECTED TO ENSURE THAT THEY REMAIN IN AN EFFICIENT WORKING CONDITION.
THE SMOKING (PUBLIC HEALTH) (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE 1992, WHICH EXTENDED THE PROHIBITION ON SMOKING FROM THE LOWER DECK OF A PUBLIC BUS TO ALL PARTS OF IT FROM AUGUST 1, 1992, SHOULD REDUCE THE INCIDENCE OF DISCARDED CIGARETTES FOUND ON BUSES, AND HENCE THE BUS FIRES SO CAUSED, MR YEUNG ADDED.
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RED LIGHT CAMERA SCHEME A SUCCESS
******
A PILOT SCHEME STARTED IN JANUARY THIS YEAR, UNDER WHICH AN AUTOMATIC CAMERA HAS BEEN PLACED AT ROAD JUNCTIONS TO IDENTIFY VEHICLES THAT IGNORE RED TRAFFIC LIGHTS, HAS BEEN A SUCCESS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON LAM KUI-CHUN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR YEUNG SAID ONE CAMERA WAS BEING USED IN THE PILOT SCHEME AND IT WAS BEING ALTERNATED BETWEEN TWO ROAD JUNCTIONS.
UP TO MAY 31 THIS YEAR, 605 RED LIGHT VIOLATIONS HAD BEEN IDENTIFIED USING THE CAMERA. AS A RESULT, 207 FIXED PENALTY TICKETS AND TWO SUMMONSES HAD BEEN ISSUED, AND THE REMAINING 396 CASES WERE BEING PROCESSED.
AN ANALYSIS OF ENFORCEMENT DATA HAD REVEALED A 47 PER CENT REDUCTION IN RED LIGHT VIOLATIONS AT JUNCTIONS WHERE THE CAMERA WAS IN USE, MR YEUNG SAID, ADDING THAT PLANS WERE BEING MADE TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL CAMERAS.
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ADDITIONAL
TUNNEL SAFETY MEASURES BEING CONSIDERED
*******
CONSIDERATION IS BEING GIVEN TO IMPLEMENTING ADDITIONAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES WITH A VIEW TO FURTHER IMPROVING TUNNFI WHEN ONE TUBE IS CLOSED.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON HUANG CHEN-YA LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
TRAFFIC
SAFETY
YEUNG, IN THE
/THESE MEASURES .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 10 -
THESE MEASURES INCLUDE ERECTING LARGER DIRECTIONAL SIGNS, IMPOSING A 50 KM PER HOUR SPEED LIMITS AND ARRANGING FOR MORE FREQUENT RADIO BROADCASTS OF SAFETY MESSAGES WITHIN THE TUNNELS.
MR YEUNG SAID IN THE PAST THREE YEARS, SIX FATAL ACCIDENTS AND 66 CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY HAD OCCURRED WITHIN ROAD TUNNELS AND THEIR APPROACH/EX1T AREAS.
THREE OF THE FATAL ACCIDENTS AND 36 CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY OCCURRED WHILE ONE TUBE OF A TUNNEL WAS CLOSED AND THE OTHER TUBE WAS BEING USED FOR TWO-WAY TRAFFIC.
IN THE SAME PERIOD, THE OVERALL ACCIDENT RATE IN TUNNELS WAS 0.58 ACCIDENT PER MILLION VEHICLE KILOMETRES, WHICH COMPARED FAVOURABLY WITH THE RATE OF 1.72 PER MILLION VEHICLE KILOMETRES ON ALL ROADS, MR YEUNG NOTED.
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AIRPORT IMMIGRATION CLEARANCE TIME FAVOURABLE
*****
THE IMMIGRATION CLEARANCE TIME AT KAI TAK AIRPORT COMPARES QUITE FAVOURABLY WITH OTHER AIRPORTS, GIVEN ITS AND THE PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, ASPREY, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN GENERAL
HIGH USAGE
MR ALISTAIR
"WE ARE AWARE, HOWEVER, THAT PASSENGER VOLUME AT KAI TAK MUST BE EXPECTED TO INCREASE BEFORE A REPLACEMENT AIRPORT COMES INTO OPERATION.
"WE HOPE TO BE ABLE TO PROVIDE NEXT YEAR SOME MORE RESOURCES FOR IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING THE COMPLETION OF SCREENING OF VIETNAMESE ASYLUM SEEKERS," HE SAID.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HOWARD YOUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR ASPREY SAID THE DEPARTMENT HAD MADE A NUMBER OF IMPROVEMENTS IN PRODUCTIVITY AND CLEARANCE TIMES OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS TO COPE WITH THE INCREASED PRESSURE.
A RECENT IMPROVEMENT HAS BEEN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE TRAVEL RECORD AND IMMIGRATION CONTROL AND ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM.
MR ASPREY SAID THIS HAD ACHIEVED A SIGNIFICANT SHORTENING OF THE PROCESSING TIME FOR RESIDENTS ON ARRIVAL, FROM A MINUTE AND A HALF TO A MINUTE, AND ON DEPARTURE FROM A MINUTE TO HALF A MINUTE.
THE FINAL STAGE OF THE IMPROVEMENT WAS ACHIEVED ONLY LAST MONTH, HE ADDED.
IN 1995, THE EXISTING COMPUTER TERMINALS WILL BE REPLACED BY OPTICAL READERS WHICH WILL REDUCE FURTHER THE TIME NEEDED TO CLEAR HONG KONG IDENTITY (’ARD AND MACHINE READABLE PASSPORT HOLDERS, HE SAID.
/THE DEPARTMENT .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 11 -
THE DEPARTMENT RECEIVED SEVEN COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE CLEARANCE TIME IN 1991, NINE LAST YEAR AND FIVE IN THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR.
OF THE 21 CASES, 16 INVOLVED PASSENGERS WHO HAD APPARENTLY BEEN CLEARED IN LESS THAN THE 30-MINUTE TARGET TIME. THE REMAINING FIVE CASES ALL OCCURRED DURING MID-DAY PEAK PERIODS.
"IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT HAS NOW REVISED ITS MANNING PATTERN TO GIVE MAXIMUM COVERAGE DURING THOSE PERIODS," HE SAID.
THE INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION ORGANISATION RECOMMENDED A STANDARD OF 45 MINUTES FOR AIRPORT CLEARANCE OVERALL, BUT NOT FOR IMMIGRATION CLEARANCE ALONE.
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USE OF MOBILE TELEPHONE WHILE DRIVING IS DISCOURAGED
*****
THE PRACTICE OF USING MOBILE TELEPHONES WHILE DRIVING CAN CAUSE TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, AND IS DISCOURAGED.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG* IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON TANG SIU-TONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR YEUNG SAID IN THE ROAD USERS’ CODE, MOTORISTS WERE ADVISED TO STOP THEIR CARS IN A SAFE PLACE IF THEY WISHED TO USE THEIR MOBILE TELEPHONES.
"WHILE THERE IS NO LEGISLATION SPECIFICALLY PROHIBITING THE PRACTICE, MOTORISTS MAY BE PROSECUTED FOR CARELESS DRIVING IF THE USE OF A MOBILE TELEPHONE CAN BE SHOWN TO HAVE CAUSED A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT," HE SAID.
THERE WERE TWO TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS RECORDED IN 1991 AND THREE IN 1992 IN WHICH THE USE OF MOBILE TELEPHONES WHILE DRIVING WAS CONSIDERED A CONTRIBUTORY FACTOR.
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/12 ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 12 -
COMPLAINTS SYSTEM AGAINST REGISTERED SURVEYORS TO STAY ******
THERE IS NO PLAN AT THIS STAGE TO CHANGE THE SYSTEM FOR THE PUBLIC TO LODGE COMPLAINTS AGAINST THE ETHICAL STANDARD OF REGISTERED SURVEYORS TO THE SURVEYORS REGISTRATION BOARD.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR WORKS, MR S K KWEI,, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ALBERT CHAN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR KWEI SAID SIMILAR TO OTHER PROFESSIONS, THE GOVERNMENT CONSIDERED THAT IT WAS MORE APPROPRIATE FOR THE RELEVANT PROFESSSIONAL REGISTRATION BOARD TO MONITOR THE OPERATIONS OF ITS MEMBERS.
VIEWS OF THE ADMINISTRATION ARE REFLECTED TO THE BOARD THROUGH THE BOARD MEMBER APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR.
THE BOARD HAS THE POWER TO REMOVE REGISTERED SURVEYORS COMMITTING SERIOUS DISCIPLINARY OFFENCES FROM THE REGISTER.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC BY ENGAGING REGISTERED SURVEYORS HAVE DIRECT ACCESS FOR ANY COMPLAINTS ON THE PROFESSIONAL ETHICS OF AN INDIVIDUAL ESTATE SURVEYOR.
"MEMBERS CAN REST ASSURED THAT THE PROCEDURES ARE KEPT UNDER REVIEW FOR IMPROVEMENT IF FOUND NECESSARY," MR KWEI SAID.
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HOUSING AUTHORITY’S GAS SUPPLY POLICY EXPLAINED *******
IT IS THE HOUSING AUTHORITY’S POLICY THAT TOWNGAS WILL BE ADOPTED FOR NEW ESTATES WHERE AVAILABLE AND A PIPED LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS SUPPLY WILL ONLY BE ADOPTED WHERE THE FORMER IS NOT LIKELY TO BECOME AVAILABLE, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON FRED LI IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR EASON SAID THIS POLICY WAS FORMULATED AFTER VERY THOROUGH CONSIDERATION AND HAD BEEN REVIEWED FROM TIME TO TIME, MOST RECENTLY IN 1990.
FACTORS CONSIDERED BY THE AUTHORITY INCLUDE PLANNING FLEXIBILITY, COST, SAFETY, SECURITY OF SUPPLY, THE NEED FOR ON-SITE GAS STORAGE AND POSSIBLE ADAPTABILITY TO NATURAL GAS IN FUTURE.
HE SAID PUBLIC HOUSING RESIDENTS AS CONSUMERS OF TOWNGAS WERE NO DIFFERENT FROM OTHER TOWNGAS CONSUMERS AND WERE NOT SUBJECT TO A DIFFERENT TARIFF STRUCTURE SO THEIR INTERESTS WERE JUST AS WELL PROTECTED AS OTHER CONSUMERS’.
OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS, THE DIFFERENCE IN CHARGES FOR TOWNGAS AND LIQUEFIED PETROI.EUM GAS HAD BEEN MARGINAL, HE SAID.
- - 0----------
/13 .......
WEDNESDAY, JUDY 7, 1993
- 13 -
CONSERVATION OF COUNTRY PARKS AND RURAL LANDSCAPE *******
ONE OF THE MAIN COMPONENTS IN THE CURRENT REVIEW OF THE TERRITORIAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY AND THE VARIOUS SUB-REGIONAL PLANNING STRATEGIES BENEATH IT IS A STRATEGY FOR THE CONSERVATION OF THE COUNTRY PARKS AND RURAL LANDSCAPE, 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 BROAD CONCEPT WAS THAT RURAL LAND OTHER THAN AREAS REQUIRED FOR DEVELOPMENT TO SUSTAIN ANTICIPATED POPULATION AND ECONOMIC GROWTH SHOULD BE DESIGNATED FOR CONSERVATION, AGRICULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL PURPOSES.
ABOUT HALF OF THE RURAL AREA IS ALREADY COVERED BY THE COUNTRY PARK DESIGNATION.
"OTHER PROPOSALS EMERGING FROM THE PLANNING STRATEGIES WILL BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT WHEN THE RURAL OUTLINE ZONING PLANS WHICH WILL REPLACE THE CURRENT GENERATION OF DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION AREA PLANS ARE PREPARED," HE SAID.
ON WHETHER LAND CURRENTLY USED FOR OPEN STORAGE OF CONTAINERS AND SCRAP METAL COULD BE REVERTED TO ITS ORIGINAL STATE, MR EASON SAID THE TOWN PLANNING ORDINANCE DID NOT EMPOWER THE GOVERNMENT TO TAKE ENFORCEMENT OR REINSTATEMENT ACTION AGAINST LAND USES WHICH EXISTED BEFORE THE PUBLICATION OF THE RELEVANT DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION AREA PLAN (DPA).
HE SAID USES ESTABLISHED WITHOUT PERMISSION AFTER THE PUBLICATION OF A DPA PLAN WHICH CONTRAVENED THE LAND USE ZONING COULD BE DEALT WITH BY ENFORCEMENT AND REINSTATEMENT ACTION.
"IN THE LONGER TERM, NEW ARRANGEMENTS TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM OF ’EXISTING USES’ WILL BE REQUIRED AND CONSIDERATION IS BEING GIVEN TO THIS IN THE CONTENT OF THE REVIEW OF THE ORDINANCE," MR EASON SAID.
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CRIME INFORMATION FORMS HELP POLICE INVESTIGATION it***
CRIMINAL INFORMATION FORM SCHEME, AS A CHANNEL OF PASSING CRIME INFORMATION TO THE POLICE, IS OF CONSIDERABLE HELP TO CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS.
ON AVERAGE, ONE ARREST RESULTS FROM EVERY THREE FORMS RECEIVED.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON LEE WING-TAT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, SAID THE POLICE USED THE INFORMATION RECEIVED ON SUCH FORMS AS INTELLIGENCE TO HELP THEIR INVESTIGATIONS.
/MR ASPREY ...
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 14 -
MR ASPREY SAID THE NUMBER OE CRIME INFORMATION FORMS RECEIVED IN EACH OF THE PAST FIVE YEARS HAD BEEN INCREASING STEADILY.
FROM 1988 UP TO MAY 31, THIS YEAR, A TOTAL OF 8,049 FORMS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED AND THE NUMBER OF ARRESTS ATTRIBUTABLE TO INFORMATION IN THE FORMS IS 2,791.
HE SAID THE POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS BUREAU HAD MADE A CONSIDERABLE EFFORT TO EXPAND THE DISTRIBUTION OF CRIME INFORMATION FORMS.
"AND IT HAS HAD REASONABLE SUCCESS IN ENCOURAGING THE INVOLVEMENT OF THE COMMUNITY, ESPECIALLY BY SEEKING THE CONSENT AND CO-OPERATION OF COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISES TO ALLOW THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE FORMS AT THEIR PREMISES," THE SECRETARY SAID.
THESE FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT ALL POST OFFICES, DISTRICT OFFICES, MANAGEMENT OFFICES OF PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES, HOTELS AND BANKS; A TOTAL OF MORE THAN 700 LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.
THE FORMS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT CERTAIN SUPERMARKETS, CHAIN CONVENIENCE STORES, DISPENSARIES AND A NUMBER OF MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS IN MULTI-STOREY BUILDINGS.
THE SCHEME STARTED IN 1980.
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BRIDGING COURSE FOR STUDENTS SEEKING TRANSFER TO PRE-VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS ******
THIRTY-FIVE STUDENTS OF GRAMMAR SCHOOLS WERE TRANSFERRED TO PRE-VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS AFTER COMPLETING A BRIDGING COURSE IN THE SUMMER OF 1992, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THEY WERE AMONG THE 45 STUDENTS WHO HAD ATTENDED AND COMPLETED THE PILOT BRIDGING COURSE AIMED FOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL STUDENTS SEEKING TRANSFER TO SECONDARY TWO OF PRE-VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON TIK CHI-YUEN, MR LEUNG SAID EXPENDITURE ON THE COURSE TOTALLED $249,000, OF WHICH $198,000 WERE SPENT ON THE SALARY OF THE TEACHING AND ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF WHILE THE REST ON MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS.
THERE HAS NOT BEEN ANY DEMAND SO FAR FROM PRE-VOCATIONAL SCHOOL STUDENTS WISHING TO TRANSFER TO GRAMMAR SCHOOLS.
"STUDENTS ARE ADMITTED TO PRE-VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS ON THE BASIS OF A CLEAR AND POSITIVE PREFERENCE BY THEMSELVES AND THEIR PARENTS FOR THIS TYPE OF EDUCATION," MR LEUNG EXPLAINED.
"BEFORE ADMISSION, THESE STUDENTS ALSO TAKE AN APTITUDE TEST WHICH SHOWS THAT THEY HAVE A GENUINE INTEREST AND INCLINATION IN STUDYING TECHNICAL AND COMMERCIAL SUBJECTS," HE ADDED.
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/15......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
15
GOVT TO CONSIDER RAIL LINK TO TUEN MUN
*****
THE GOVERNMENT WILL CONSIDER A SUGGESTION BY SOME LEGCO MEMBERS EOR A TUEN MUN EXTENSION - FROM TIN SHU I WAI TO TUEN MUN NORTH - OF THE WESTERN CORRIDOR RAIL LINK RECOMMENDED IN THE RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STUDY.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG IN A MOTION DEBATE ON THE RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STUDY IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR YEUNG EMPHASISED THAT THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT HAVE A CLOSED MIND ON THE QUESTION OF EXTENDING THE PROPOSED RAIL SYSTEM TO TUEN MUN. THE ISSUE WOULD BE CONSIDERED FURTHER BEFORE THE STRATEGY IS FINALISED.
COMMENTING ON OTHER ALTERNATIVES TO THE RECOMMENDED WESTERN CORRIDOR RAIL ALIGNMENT, MR YEUNG SAID A COASTAL ROUTE FROM TUEN MUN TO TSUEN WAN WOULD BE EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE TO BUILD, COSTING ABOUT $12 BILLION.
THE ALIGNMENT COULD ONLY BE USED FOR A COMMUTER SERVICE AND WOULD NOT BE A SUITABLE ROUTE FOR CROSS-BORDER PASSENGER. AND FREIGHT SERVICES.
ON ANOTHER PROPOSAL TO LINK THE WESTERN CORRIDOR TO THE PROPOSED ZHUHAI BRIDGE, MR YEUNG SAID: "IF AND WHEN PLANS ARE RECEIVED, THEY WILL CERTAINLY BE LOOKED AT BY THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF THE WHOLE TRANSPORT NETWORK FOR THE NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES, INCLUDING OUR RAILWAY PROPOSALS."
MR YEUNG SAID THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION EXERCISE ON THE RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STUDY WILL END ON JUIA 31. THE VARIOUS VIEWS, COMMENTS AND INTERESTS EXPRESSED WILL NEED TO BE CAREFULLY ANALYSED, BEFORE THE GOVERNMENT FIRMS Up A FINAL STRATEGY WITH INDICATIONS OF RELATIVE PRIORITIES BETWEEN PROJECTS.
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/16........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 16 -
SPEECH OF SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND IN MOTION DEBATE ON POLICY ON SERVICE INDUSTRY IN LEGCO
MR PRESIDENT,
THE PROPOSER OF THIS MOTION HAS PRESENTED US WITH A VERY BROAD PROPOSITION WHICH HE USED TN HIS OPENING SPEECH VERY MUCH IN THE MANNER OF A CHRISTMAS TREE ON WHICH HE AND OTHERS HAVE HUNG AN ENORMOUS ARRAY OF ORNAMENTS. IT WOULD TAKE ME FROM NOW UNTIL THE CHRISTMAS AFTER NEXT TO ATTEMPT TO ADDRESS THEM ALL IN ANY DEGREE OF DEPTH. I SHOULD THEREFORE CONFINE MYSELF LARGELY TO ADDRESSING THE WORDING OF THE MOTION ITSELF, NOT BECAUSE MANY OF THE USEFUL AND INTERESTING POINTS THAT HAVE BEEN MADE BY SOME SPEAKERS IN THIS DEBATE ARE NOT WORTHY OF CONSIDERATION, BUT SIMPLY BECAUSE IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO DO THEM ALL JUSTICE IN THE CONTEXT OF A DEBATE THAT IS AS BROAD AS THIS WHERE ALMOST ANYTHING CAN BE RAISED AND HAS BEEN. MEMBERS MAY BE ASSURED THAT THEIR POINTS HAVE BEEN CAREFULLY NOTED.
MR PRESIDENT, THE STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMY, TO WHICH THIS MOTION REFERS, HAS BEEN PROCEEDING FOR MANY YEARS AS AN AUTONOMOUS PROCESS DRIVEN BY MARKET FORCES. IT IS NOT A MANAGED PROCESS AND CERTAINLY DOES NOT CALL FOR A MANAGED RESPONSE. A RELATIVE DECLINE IN THE SIGNIFICANCE OF LOCAL MANUFACTURING HAS TAKEN PLACE, WHILE THE SERVICE SECTORS HAVE CONTINUOUSLY GROWN IN IMPORTANCE. BETWEEN 19R1 AND 1991 THE SHARE OF THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR IN THE GDP FELL FROM 23% TO 16%, WHILE THAT OF THE SERVICE SECTORS AS A WHOLE ROSE FROM 64% TO 73%. THE CHANGES IN THE SHARES IN TOTAL EMPLOYMENT WERE EVEN MORE DRAMATIC. IN 1981, MANUFACTURING PROVIDED JOBS TO 39% OF OUR TOTAL WORKFORCE; IN 1992 IT WAS ONLY 24%. BY CONTRAST, THE SERVICE SECTORS AS A WHOLE EMPLOYED 66% OF OUR WORKFORCE IN 1992, UP FROM 50% IN 1981. BY ANY RECKONING HONG KONG NOW CLEARLY HAS THE PROFILE OF A PREDOMINANTLY SERVICE-ORIENTED ECONOMY.
PROMPTED BY THE ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES EMERGING FROM THE OPEN DOOR POLICY OF CHINA, TO WHICH MANY SPEAKERS HAVE REFERRED, THE STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATION OF OUR ECONOMY HAS BEEN PROCEEDING AT A PHENOMENAL PACE. RESOURCES HAVE BEEN MOVING QUICKLY ACROSS FROM THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR TO SUCH ACTIVITIES AS WHOLESALE/RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADE; RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS; TRANSPORT, STORAGE AND COMMUNICATIONS; AND FINANCIAL, INSURANCE AND OTHER PROFESSIONAL AND SUPPORTING BUSINESS SERVICES. IT IS REMARKABLE THAT WE HAVE EXPERIENCED LITTLE STRUCTURAL UNEMPLOYMENT IN THE PROCESS. EMPLOYMENT HAS BEEN DECLINING VERY RAPIDLY IN MANUFACTURING WHILST CONCURRENTLY IT HAS BEEN RISING EQUALLY QUICKLY IN THE MAIN SERVICE SECTORS, WITH THE NET RESULT THAT THE OVERALL UNEMPLOYMENT RATE HAS REMAINED PERSISTENTLY LOW. THE HIGH DEGREE OF ADAPTABILITY AND VERSATILITY OF OUR WORKFORCE, WHICH THUS FAR HAS CONTRIBUTED MUCH TO EASING THE PROCESS OF STRUCTURAL CHANGE, WOULD BE HARD TO MATCH ELSEWHERE IN THE WORLD.
/OVER THE .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 17 -
OVER THE YEARS THE PRIVATE SECTOR, THE MARKET PRACTITIONERS THEMSELVES, HAVE BEEN THE MAIN DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THE STRUCTURAL CHANGE. THIS IS ONLY RIGHT. NO ONE, OTHER THAN THE ENTREPRENEURS AND THEIR EMPLOYEES, KNOWS BETTER ABOUT THE PROSPECTIVE TRENDS AND DIRECTIONS OF THEIR OWN MARKETS AND THE SPECIFIC BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES UNFOLDING BEFORE THEM. THEY HAVE ENJOYED SUCCESS AND PROFITS IN MAKING THEIR OWN DECISIONS FOR CHANGE. THEY ARE CERTAINLY CAPABLE OF CONTINUING TO DO SO. EXTERNAL DIRECTION AND PRESSURE FOR ANY PARTICULAR TYPE OF MARKET DEVELOPMENT, ESPECIALLY IF IT WERE TO COME FROM THE GOVERNMENT, MAY WELL BE COUNTER-PRODUCTIVE AND WOULD MOST PROBABLY NOT BE WELCOMED, AND QUITE RIGHTLY NOT, BY THE BUSINESSES CONCERNED.
WHAT THE GOVERNMENT AIMS TO PROVIDE, AND HAS BEEN CONSISTENTLY PROVIDING, IS A SOUND BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT AND AN EXCELLENT NETWORK OF ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE BASIS OF WHICH INDIVIDUAL COMPANIES, IN WHATEVER SECTORS, CAN SEEK TO MAXIMISE THEIR OWN PROFIT POTENTIAL AND THEREBY PROSPER. IN PARALLEL WITH THIS, INDIVIDUAL COMPANIES HAVE TO FACE THEIR OWN COMMERCIAL RISKS, MAKE ADEQUATE CONTINGENCIES FOR POSSIBLE ADVERSE DEVELOPMENTS AND, IF FORTUNE IS AGAINST THEM, BEAR THE CONSEQUENCE OF LOSSES. OUR POLICY FOR THE ECONOMY IS SOUND AND HAS SERVED HONG KONG WELL. IT WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO, INDEED IMPORTANT ELEMENTS OF IT ARE RECOGNISED BY THE JOINT DECLARATION AND THE BASIC LAW. THE MAIN FOUNDATIONS OF THIS POLICY INCLUDE:-
- ADHERENCE TO FREE MARKET PRINCIPLES AND A FREE TRADE REGIME
- A SOUND LEGAL SYSTEM AND EFFECTIVE INSTITUTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES
- A SIMPLE TAX SYSTEM WITH A LOW TAX RATE
- THE RELATIVELY SMALL SIZE OF THE PUBLIC SECTOR IN RELATION TO THE ECONOMY
- ADEQUATE REGULATIONS IN THE FINANCIAL SECTOR TO ENSURE MARKET INTEGRITY AND ORDERI.Y FUNCTIONING WHILST MAINTAINING A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD AND WITHOUT STIFLING PRIVATE SECTOR INITIATIVE
- STRONG COMMITMENT TO MAINTAINING MONETARY AND EXCHANGE RATE STABILITY
- SUBSTANTIAL INVESTMENT IN EDUCATION, TRAINING AND HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT GENERALLY
INVESTING DIRECTLY IN OR OTHERWISE FACILITATING THE DEVELOPMENT OF ESSENTIAL ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE, AND ENSURING AN ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF LAND
ALL OF THESE ELEMENTS ARE CRUCIAL FOR THE LONGER-TERM DEVELOPMENT OF THE SERVICE SECTORS, AS INDEED THEY ARE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ECONOMY AS A WHOLE.
/AT THIS .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
18
AT THIS POINT MR PRESIDENT I WOULD RECALL THE WORDING OF THE MOTION. AS MR MCGREGOR AND MR VINCENT CHENG POINTED OUT, IT APPEARS TO CARRY THE IMPLICATION THAT HONG KONG IS NOT YET A MAJOR SERVICE CENTRE IN ASIA AND THAT RELEVANT POLICIES NEED TO BE FORMULATED AND COMMITTEES ESTABLISHED TO MAKE IT ONE. IF THIS ACCURATELY REFLECTS THE INTENDED MEANING OF THE MOTION, AND I FIND IT VERY HARD TO BELIEVE THAT IT CAN, IT WOULD BE AN EXTRAORDINARY PROPOSITION INDEED. FOR SOME YEARS NOW, HONG KONG HAS BEEN WELL RECOGNISED INTERNATIONALLY TO BE A MAJOR SERVICE CENTRE ALREADY, NOT JUST IN ASIA BUT IN THE WORLD AS A WHOLE. THIS IS PARTICULARLY TRUE IN THE AREAS OF BANKING AND OTHER FINANCIAL SERVICES, SHIPPING, AIRLINES, TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND TOURISM, TO NAME BUT A FEW. HONG KONG HAS BECOME A MAJOR SERVICE CENTRE ON THE BASIS OF THE POLICIES, LONG SINCE FORMULATED AND ALREADY WELL-ESTABLISHED, TO WHICH I HAVE JUST REFERRED. THESE POLICIES ARE FIRMLY ENTRENCHED IN OUR ECONOMIC SYSTEM AND HAVE BEEN WELL TESTED OVER THE YEARS. THEY HAVE CONTRIBUTED SUBSTANTIALLY TO OUR ECONOMIC SUCCESS. IT WOULD BE ILL-ADVISED, TO SAY THE LEAST, EVEN TO CONSIDER GOING FOR ANYTHING MATERIALLY DIFFERENT - PARTICULARLY AT A TIME WHEN THE WORLD IS LITTERED WITH THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEBRIS LEFT BY THE ABJECT FAILURE OF THE INTRUSIVE, INTERVENTIONARY POLICIES OF THOSE WHO TRIED TO CONTROL, DIRECT AND COMMAND THEIR ECONOMIES INSTEAD OF ALLOWING THEIR MARKETS TO FUNCTION FREELY.
IT IS, NEVERTHELESS, TRUE THAT WE IN HONG KONG ARE NOT LIVING IN A STATIC WORLD. SITUATIONS DO CHANGE. BUSINESSES ARE BECOMING MORE COMPLEX AND INTERTWINED. THERE HAS TO BE A PROCESS OF CONTINUOUS ADAPTATION FOR THE HONG KONG ECONOMY TO REMAIN IN THE BEST POSITION TO REAP BENEFITS AND TO MINIMISE HAZARDS. IT FOLLOWS THAT SPECIFIC ASPECTS IN DIFFERENT SERVICE POLICY AREAS MAY HAVE TO BE ADJUSTED WHEN THE NEED ARISES, ALTHOUGH OUR OVERALL POLICY BASIS, WHICH I HAVE JUST GONE INTO AT SOME LENGTH, SHOULD REMAIN INTACT. IT EQUALLY FOLLOWS THAT WE DO NOT SEE THE NEED FOR A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW. RATHER, WE SHOULD CONTINUE TO DEVELOP OUR CONSULTATIVE, REGULATORY AND ADJUSTMENT MECHANISMS ON A SECTOR-SPECIFIC BASTS, RECOGNISING THAT THE ENORMOUS BREADTH AND DIVERSITY OF THE SERVICE SECTORS NECESSITATES SOMEWHAT DIFFERENT APPROACHES IN DIFFERENT AREAS THAT OFTEN HAVE LITTLE IN COMMON WITH EACH OTHER.
MR PRESIDENT, LET ME OFFER A FEW EXAMPLES MAINLY FROM MY OWN POLICY AREA OF FINANCIAL SERVICES TO ILLUSTRATE HOW POLICY FORMULATION IS ALREADY OPERATING WITH EXISTING COMMITTEES IN THE INDIVIDUAL SERVICE SECTORS TO ENABLE EFFECTIVE ADAPTATION TO SECTORAL DEVELOPMENTS. THROUGH THESE MECHANISMS WE PRESERVE Till BASIC VIRTUES OF OUR OVERALL ECONOMIC STANCE WHILST BEING ALERT TO ANY DEMONSTRATED NEED FOR CHANGE OR POSSIBILITY OF IMPROVEMENT.
ON BANKING, THROUGH A CONSULTATIVE MECHANISM INVOLVING THE GOVERNMENT’S BANKING ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES ADVISORY COMMITTEE AS WELL AS CLOSE LIAISON WITH THE RELEVANT INDUSTRY ORGANISATIONS, NAMELY THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF BANKS AND THE DTC ASSOCIATION, A NEW AND LESS MECHANISTIC SYSTEM OF BANKING SUPERVISION HAS BEEN DEVELOPED FOLLOWING THE INTRODUCTION IN L986 OF A NEW BANKING ORDINANCE. THIS PLACES GREATER EMPHASIS ON SUPERVISORY JUDGMENT AND DISCRETION,. THE MAIN OBJECTIVE IS TO ENSURE STABILITY IN THE BANKING SYSTEM AND THAT THE BUSINESS OF AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS IS CONDUCTED IN A PRUDENTIAL MANNER. EMPHASIS IS ALSO PLACED ON ENSURING THAT SUPERVISORY STANDARDS AND REQUIREMENTS ARE CONSTANTLY REVIEWED AND UPDATED TO KEEP ABREAST OF DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET AND RELEVANT INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS. A FEW EXAMPLES OF SUCH EFFORTS INCLUDE:-
/- COMPLIANCE WITH ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
19
- COMPLIANCE WITH THE BASLE CAPITAL ADEQUACY STANDARDS BY LOCALLY INCORPORATED INSTITUTIONS AT THE END OF 1989, THREE YEARS AHEAD OF THE TARGET FOR THE WORLD;
- THE REFORM TO THE THREE-TIER SYSTEM IN 199L INTRODUCING THE CATEGORY OF RESTRICTED LICENCE BANKS TO REPLACE THE CATEGORY OF LICENSED DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES;
- AND MORE RECENTLY, THE INTRODUCTION OF REQUIREMENTS ENABLING THE SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE AUDITORS TO REPORT ON THE ADEQUACY OF THE INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS OF AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS.
ON INSURANCE, THROUGH THE ESTABLISHED CONSULTATIVE MECHANISM OF THE GOVERNMENT’S INSURANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND THE INDUSTRY’S HK FEDERATION OF INSURERS AND ASSOCIATED BODIES, A REGULATORY SYSTEM IS BEING DEVELOPED WITH THE AIM OF ENSURING THE INTEGRITY OF THE MARKET WHILST STILL PERMITTING MARKET FORCES TO DETERMINE PRICING AND RISK COVER. THE MAIN REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS ARE THE SOLVENCY OF THE INSURERS AND THE PROTECTION OF POLICY- HOLDERS’ INTERESTS. THE INSURANCE AUTHORITY WILL MONITOR AND SUPPLEMENT SELF-REGULATION BY THE INDUSTRY OF ITS BROKERS AND AGENTS WITHIN A FRAMEWORK OF SUPPORTIVE LEGISLATION.
ON SECURITIES AND FUTURES, THE MAIN CONSULTATIVE AND ADVISORY MECHANISM IS PROVIDED BY THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION (SFC) WHICH MAINTAINS VERY CLOSE CONTACT WITH MARKET PRACTITIONERS, THE STOCK EXCHANGE COUNCIL AND THE FUTURES EXCHANGE BOARD. MAJOR MARKET DEVELOPMENT MEASURES HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AND IMPLEMENTED SINCE THE STOCK MARKET CRASH OF 1987 SUCH AS THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SFC ITSELF, AS WELL AS THE CENTRAL CLEARING AND SETTLEMENT SYSTEM WHICH HAS GREATLY IMPROVED RISK MANAGEMENT AND THEREBY ENHANCED CONFIDENCE IN THE MARKET. THIS YEAR ALONE HAS SEEN IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTS WITH THE LAUNCH OF INDEX OPTIONS TRADING ON THE FUTURES EXCHANGE AND THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE LISTING OF CHINESE STATE-OWNED ENTERPRISES ON THE STOCK EXCHANGE. FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS IN VIEW INCLUDE THE INTRODUCTION OF THE AUTOMATED ORDER-MATCHING AND EXECUTION SYSTEM AS WELL AS SHORT SELLING AND OPTIONS TRADING ON INDIVIDUAL SHARES ON THE STOCK EXCHANGE. GOVERNMENT HAS SPECIFICALLY SHOWN ITS SUPPORT WITH A FURTHER REDUCTION OF STAMP DUTY AND THE TRANSACTION LEVY. THE SECURITIES SECTOR OFFERS AN EXCELLENT ILLUSTRATION OF HOW GOVERNMENT AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR CAN AND DO CO-OPERATE TO PROVIDE A NECESSARY REGULATORY FRAMEWORK WITHOUT IMPEDING THE OPERATION OF MARKET FORCES.
IN THE AREA OF COMPANIES REGULATION, THE STANDING COMMITTEE ON COMPANY LAW REFORM WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1984 TO ENSURE THAT THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK UNDER WHICH BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED IN HONG KONG FACILITATES THE OPERATION OF THE MARKET, WHILE PROVIDING A SET OF GROUND RULES THAT GIVE AN ESSENTIAL LEVEL OF CONFIDENCE TO INVESTORS, CREDITORS AND OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES. THE STANDING COMMITTEE IS COMPOSED CHIEFLY OF PRIVATE SECTOR PRACTITIONERS INCLUDING MEMBERS FROM BANKING, ACCOUNTANCY AND COMMERCIAL LAW, FROM THE COMPANY SECRETARIAL SECTOR AND THE STOCK EXCHANGE, IN ADDITION TO MEMBERS FROM THE REGULATORY AGENCIES. IT REPORTS ANNUALLY THROUGH ME TO THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL. THROUGH THIS MEANS THE COMPANIES REGULATORY FRAMEWORK IS KEPT UNDER CONSTANT REVIEW. THE VIEWS OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE ARE GIVEN CONSIDERABLE WEIGHT BY THE ADMINISTRATION. WE HAVE IMPLEMENTED OR ARE IN THE PROCESS OF IMPLEMENTING THE VAST MAJORITY OF ITS RECOMMENDATIONS.
/MR PRESIDENT, ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 20 -
MR PRESIDENT, THESE ARE JUST SOME EXAMPLES OF EXISTING MECHANISMS FOR POLICY FORMULATION AND FACILITATING SERVICE SECTOR DEVELOPMENT. THERE ARE MANY OTHERS, SUCH AS IN THOSE POLICY AREAS COVERED BY MY COLLEAGUES THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT AND THE SECRETARY FOR WORKS, AS WELL AS THE DEPARTMENTS UNDER THEIR PURVIEW.
THERE IS HOWEVER ONE AREA WHERE SERVICES ARE BEING LOOKED AT, IF NOT COMPREHENSIVELY, AT LEAST ON AN ACROSS-THE-BOARD BASIS - AND THAT IS IN THE CONTEXT OF TRADE. ONE OF THE AREAS IN WHICH THE URUGUAY ROUND OF GATT NEGOTIATIONS IS FAR MORE AMBITIOUS THAN ITS PREDECESSORS IS IN SEEKING TO EXTEND THE 'EQUAL ACCESS’, ’NON-DISCRIMINATORY’ GATT PRINCIPLES ON TRADE IN GOODS, TO THE MUCH BROADER, MORE COMPLEX AND DIVERSE FIELD OF TRADE IN SERVICES. THIS CAN ONLY BE TO HONG KONG’S ADVANTAGE, JUST AS GATT MEMBERSHIP HAS BEEN WITH REGARD TO GOODS. HONG KONG HAS THEREFORE BEEN AN ACTIVE PARTICIPANT IN THE SERVICE NEGOTIATIONS, WORKING FOR A STRONG AND COMPREHENSIVE AGREEMENT WITH MAXIMUM PARTICIPATION. HONG KONG HAS THRIVED TN A FREE-MARKET ENVIRONMENT AND OUR SERVICE SECTORS STAND TO GAIN MUCH FROM THE LIBERALISATION AND DEREGULATION IN OTHER MARKETS THAT SHOULD FOLLOW FROM A SUCCESSFUL MULTILATERAL AGREEMENT ON TRADE TN SERVICES.
IT WAS AGAINST THIS BACKGROUND THAT THE GOVERNMENT ENCOURAGED THE FORMATION OF THE HONG KONG COALITION OF SERVICE INDUSTRIES (HKCSI) WHICH WAS ESTABLISHED IN L990 UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE HONG KONG GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. THE HKCSI’S AIMS INCLUDE:-
- PROMOTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF SERVICE INDUSTRIES BOTH IN HONG KONG AND INTERNATIONALLY,
- REPRESENTING THE INTERESTS OF SERVICE INDUSTRIES IN HONG KONG, FORMULATING POLICIES AND MAKING SUBMISSIONS ON BEHALF OF ITS MEMBERS,
- ESTABLISHING AND MAINTAINING CO-OPERATION BETWEEN MEMBERS OF HONG KONG’S SERVICE INDUSTRIES FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACHIEVING COMMON GOALS, AND
- PROMOTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF A "SERVICE FRIENDLY
ENVIRONMENT" IN HONG KONG.
THE HKCSI THEREFORE PROVIDES A FOCAL POINT FOR LIAISON BETWEEN THE SERVICE SECTOR AND THE GOVERNMENT. WE HAVE BEEN WORKING PARTICULARLY CLOSELY TN CONNECTION WITH THE URUGUAY ROUND NEGOTIATIONS. SINCE ITS INCEPTION THE HKCSI HAS BEEN ACTIVE NOT ONLY LOCALLY BUT INTERNATIONALLY. IT HOSTED THE SEVENTH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF COALITIONS OF SERVICE INDUSTRIES IN OCTOBER 1991 WITH SPEAKERS FROM ITS COUNTERPART ORGANISATIONS AROUND THE WORLD AS WELL AS INTERNATIONAL TRADE ORGANISATIONS, INCLUDING GATT AND THE INTERNATIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.
MY OWN BRANCH KEEPS IN TOUCH WITH THE HKCSI’S FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE. OTHER GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVES ATTEND MEETINGS OF DIFFERENT SECTORAL COMMITTEES ESTABLISHED BY THE HKCSI AS WELL AS ITS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
/THE EXISTENCE .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 21 -
THE EXISTENCE OF THE COALITION CERTAINLY HELPS TO EXPAND AND STRENGTHEN OUR RANGE OF CONTACTS WITH THE SERVICE INDUSTRIES AND TO ENSURE CLOSER CO-OPERATION ON THE GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE SERVICE SECTOR. THERE MAY WELL BE SCOPE FOR FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF SUCH BROAD-BASED ADVISORY MECHANISMS IN FUTURE.
ONE OTHER RECENTLY ESTABLISHED BODY, ALBEIT WITH A WIDER ECONOMIC PURVIEW THAN JUST SERVICES, DESERVES A MENTION IN THE CONTEXT OF REFLECTING THE VIEWS OF INDUSTRY AND ENSURING THAT HONG KONG RETAINS ITS PRE-EMINENCE AS A COMMERCIAL AND FINANCIAL CENTRE. THIS IS THE GOVERNOR’S BUSINESS COUNCIL WHICH HAS AN ALL-EMBRACING REMIT, COVERING THE FULL SPECTRUM OF THE ECONOMY. IT ADVISES THE GOVERNOR ON, AMONG OTHER THINGS, :
- HOW TO KEEP HONG KONG THE MOST BUS I NESS-FRIENDLY LOCATION IN ASIA;
- THE IMPACT OF GOVERNMENT POLICIES ON BUSINESS, SO AS TO MODIFY OR ABOLISH THOSE THAT STAND IN THE WAY OF PROGRESS; AND
- HOW TO MAXIMISE THE POTENTIAL OF ALL OUR RESOURCES AND OF OUR POSITION AT THE HEART OF THE ASIAN ECONOMY.
INEVITABLY, WITH SUCH A REMIT, THE GOVERNOR’S BUSINESS COUNCIL IS BOUND TO COVER SUBJECTS RELEVANT TO THE INTERESTS AND CONCERNS OF SERVICE INDUSTRIES SUCH FOR INSTANCE AS THE SUPPLY OF LABOUR.
BEFORE CONCLUDING, I SHOULD MENTION ONE PARTICULAR ASPECT WHICH HAS BEEN PICKED UP IN THIS DEBATE AND WHICH WARRANTS MORE FOCUSED ATTENTION AND THE DEVOTION OF MORE RESOURCES, NOT ONLY BY THE GOVERNMENT BUT ALSO BY THE PRIVATE SECTOR WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP, AND THAT IS SERVICE SECTOR PRODUCTIVITY. WHILE THE SERVICE SECTORS ARE THE FASTEST DEVELOPING IN RECENT YEARS THERE IS EVIDENCE, THOUGH NOT CONCLUSIVE EVIDENCE, SUGGESTING THAT THESE SECTORS ARE THE ONES HAVING SLOWER INCREASES IN PRODUCTIVITY, AT LEAST SLOWER THAN IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR. PERHAPS THE TASKS IN SERVICES ARE MORE VARIED AND INVOLVE MORE HUMAN INPUT HENCE RENDERING THEM LESS AMENABLE TO MECHANISTIC PROCESSING. PERHAPS AN OFFICE OFFERS FAR LESS SCOPE FOR AUTOMATION THAN A FACTORY. BUT IT WILL BE USEFUL FOR US TO ENSURE THAT WHATEVER SCOPE THERE IS FOR PRODUCTIVITY TO BE FURTHER IMPROVED, WHETHER BY UPGRADING THE QUALITY OF THE STAFF CONCERNED OR BY COMPLEMENTING THEM WITH EQUIPMENT SUPPORT, WILL BE IDENTIFIED AND UTILISED. I AM SURE THAT MEMBERS WILL SHARE MY INTEREST IN THIS AREA. INVESTMENT IN CAPITAL EQUIPMENT WHERE IT WILL PAY OFF NEEDS NO URGE BY THE GOVERNMENT. AS TO THE PLANNING OF MANPOWER SUPPLY AND UPGRADING ITS QUALITY, MY CLOSE COLLEAGUE THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER IS PLAYING HIS ROLE FULLY.
/MR PRESIDENT, ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 22 -
MR PRESIDENT, TO SUM UP THE ADMINISTRATION’S RESPONSE TO THE MOTION, WE DO NOT SEE THE NEED TO CONDUCT A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW IN ORDER TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS. THE MAIN REQUIREMENTS ARE ALREADY WELL-KNOWN AND REFLECTED IN WELL-ESTABLISHED POLICIES. FINER DETAILING AND ADJUSTMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS IN THE LIGHT OF CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD BEST BE MADE THROUGH SPECIFIC MONITORING AND APPRAISAL, WHICH IS IN FACT AN IMPORTANT PART OF OUR ON-GOING WORK. AS I SAID EARLIER, OUR ECONOMIC POLICIES ARE FUNDAMENTALLY SOUND AND HAVE BEEN FACILITATING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SERVICE SECTORS. NUMEROUS COMMITTEES IN VARIOUS SPHERES, MANY WITH NON-OFFICIAL PARTICIPATION, HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH US TO PROMOTE SUCH DEVELOPMENT. WE VALUE THE VIEWS FROM THOSE COMMITTEES AND THEIR USEFUL CONTRIBUTIONS SHOULD CONTINUE. THESE EXISTING COMMITTEES ARE MAINLY SECTOR- SPECIFIC TO REFLECT THE DIFFERING NEEDS OF THE VARIOUS SERVICE INDUSTRIES, BUT SOME MORE BROADLY BASED MECHANISMS HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED AND THERE MIGHT BE FURTHER SCOPE FOR SUCH DEVELOPMENT IN FUTURE. FINALLY, IT IS CLEAR THAT HONG KONG IS ALREADY A MAJOR SERVICE CENTRE NOT JUST IN ASIA BUT IN THE WORLD. NEVERTHELESS, ALL OF US WILL NO DOUBT AGREE THAT WE SHOULD WORK TOGETHER, AS IN THE PAST, TO HELP HONG KONG’S SERVICE SECTORS CONTINUE TO DEVELOP AND FLOURISH.
MR PRESIDENT, TO THE EXTENT THAT WE HAVE DIFFICULTY WITH THE SPECIFIC SUGGESTIONS AND IMPLICATIONS TN THE MOTION, THOUGH NOT WITH ITS SPIRIT OF SEEKING TO ENHANCE THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF THE SERVICE SECTORS, THE OFFICIAL MEMBERS WILL NOT SUPPORT THE MOTION.
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BILL AMENDED TO CONFORM WITH BILL OF RIGHTS
* * * * *
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) AMENDED A BILL TO ENSURE THAT ’’STOP ORDERS" ISSUED TO A TAX DEFAULTER UNDER THE INLAND REVENUE ORDINANCE CONFORM FULLY WITH THE HILI. OF RIGHTS.
AFTER THE AMENDMENTS MADE TO THE INLAND REVENUE (AMENDMENT) (NO.5) BILL 1992, THE DISCRETION TO ISSUE STOP ORDERS WILL LIE WITH A DISTRICT JUDGE RATHER THAN THE COMMISSIONER OF INLAND REVENUE.
THE MAIN OBJECTIVE OF THE PASSED BILL IS TO BALANCE THE NEED TO PROTECT THE RIGHTS OF THE INDIVIDUAL, IN ACCORDANCE WITH ROTH THE LETTER AND THE SPIRIT OF THE BILL OF RIGHTS, WITH THE NEED TO HAVE IN PLACE A RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT SYSTEM FOR PREVENTING TAX DEFAULTERS FROM ABSCONDING FROM HONG KONG.
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/23 .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 23 -
MORE LEGAL MUSCLES PROPOSED TO REGULATE LISTED COMPANIES * ♦ ♦ t *
LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS DESIGNED TO BETTER EQUIP THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION TO FULFIL ITS ROLE AS THE LEAD REGULATOR ON LISTED COMPANIES WERE TABLED AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993, THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, SAID THESE PROPOSALS WOULD SUPPLEMENT THE INVESTIGATORY POWER OF THE COMMISSION WHILE MINIMISING POSSIBLE OVERLAP OF RESPONSIBILITIES OF DIFFERENT REGULATORS.
UNDER THE BILL, THE COMMISSION WILL BE PROVIDED WITH THE POWER TO CONDUCT PRELIMINARY INSPECTIONS ON RECORDS AND DOCUMENTS OF LISTED COMPANIES.
AS A REGULATOR OF LISTED COMPANIES, THE COMMISSION ENCOUNTERS FROM TIME TO TIME CIRCUMSTANCES SUGGESTING FRAUD, MISFEASANCE OR MISCONDUCT IN THE MANAGEMENT OF THE AFFAIRS OF THESE COMPANIES AS WELL AS FAILURE BY THEM TO DISCLOSE INFORMATION TO THEIR SHAREHOLDERS.
AT PRESENT, THE COMMISSION DOES NOT HAVE THE STATUTORY AUTHORITY TO INVESTIGATE SUCH CASES.
’’THIS IS CONSIDERED UNDESIRABLE SINCE THE COMMISSION IS DENIED THE OPPORTUNITY TO TAKE PROMPT INVESTIGATORY ACTIONS AT THE EARLIEST OPPORTUNITY,” HE SAID.
TO FACILITATE THE EFFECTIVE REGULATION OF LISTED COMPANIES, IT IS PROPOSED THAT THE COMMISSION BE PROVIDED WITH THE POWER TO INITIATE PRELIMINARY INSPECTIONS ON RECORDS AND DOCUMENTS OF LISTED COMPANIES.
IT IS ALSO PROPOSED THAT THE COMMISSION BE ALLOWED TO APPLY TO THE COURTS FOR ORDERS TO PROTECT THE INTERESTS OF SHAREHOLDERS OF LISTED COMPANIES.
MR CARTLAND SAID IN ANY EVENT, THE COMMISSION MUST CONSULT THE MONETARY AUTHORITY BEFORE ANY AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS OR THEIR RELATED COMPANIES COULD BE REQUIRED TO PRODUCE RECORDS AND DOCUMENTS FOR INSPECTION.
FURTHERMORE, THE POWER TO APPLY FOR COURT ORDERS WOULD NOT APPLY TO AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS.
AS REGARDS AUTHORISED INSURERS UNDER THE INSURANCE COMPANIES ORDINANCE, NO EXEMPTION WILL BE GIVEN BUT THE COMMISSION WILL NEED TO CONSULT THE INSURANCE AUTHORITY BEFORE REQUIRING SUCH COMPANIES TO PRODUCE THEIR RECORDS AND DOCUMENTS.
- - 0----------
/24 .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
24
BILL TO REGULATE STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (WEDNESDAY) INTRODUCED A BILL INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TO ENSURE THE EFFECTIVE REGULATION OF LISTING MATTERS BY THE STOCK EXCHANGE.
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE STOCK EXCHANGES UNIFICATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993, THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, SAID AN EFFECTIVE REGULATION WAS CRUCIAL TO MAINTAINING THE CONFIDENCE OF INVESTORS IN THE STOCK MARKET AND THUS TO THE REPUTATION OF HONG KONG AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE.
THE BILL SEEKS TO CLARIFY THE POWER OF THE STOCK EXCHANGE OF HONG KONG LIMITED TO MAKE LISTING RULES AND TO ENSURE THAT IT ENJOYS STATUTORY IMMUNITY IN CARRYING OUT ITS LISTING FUNCTIONS.
IN DECEMBER 1991, THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION DEVOLVED THE PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY FOR LISTING MATTERS TO THE EXCHANGE AND THESE FUNCTIONS ARE PERFORMED ON THE BASIS OF LISTING RULES MADE BY THE EXCHANGE UNDER THE STOCK EXCHANGE UNIFICATION ORDINANCE.
THE SECRETARY SAID THE EXISTING SCOPE OF THE RELEVANT PROVISION IN THE ORDINANCE WAS NARROW.
AS A RESULT, MR CARTLAND SAID, IT IS UNCLEAR WHETHER THE EXCHANGE HAS THE STATUTORY POWER TO PROMULGATE CERTAIN PROVISIONS WHICH MUST BE INCLUDED IN THE LISTING RULES.
ANOTHER ISSUE WITH THE EXISTING PROVISION IS THE UNCERTAINTY AS TO THE IMMUNITY ENJOYED BY THE EXCHANGE IN CARRYING OUT LISTING FUNCTIONS.
"IN ORDER TO REMOVE ANY DOUBT ON THESE QUESTIONS, IT HAS BECOME NECESSARY TO CLARIFY THE POWER FOR THE EXCHANGE TO MAKE EFFECTIVE LISTING RULES AND TO PROVIDE A CLEAR STATUTORY IMMUNITY TO THE EXCHANGE WITH REGARD TO LISTING MATTERS," HE SAID.
ON THE QUESTION OF IMMUNITY, IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THE EXCHANGE SHOULD BE ABLE TO ACT FIRMLY AND WITHOUT THE FEAR OF LIABILITY IN RELATION TO LISTING MATTERS, MR CARTLAND SAID.
"ANY UNCERTAINTY IN THIS REGARD WILL HINDER ITS ABILITY EFFECTIVELY TO PERFORM THESE FUNCTIONS," HE SAID.
IT IS UNDERSTOOD THAT THREATS OF LEGAL ACTION AGAINST THE EXCHANGE AND ITS LISTING COMMITTEE HAVE BEEN USED IN ATTEMPTS TO MANIPULATE THE LISTING PROCESS.
HE SAID THE SERIOUSNESS OF THE MATTER WAS REFLECTED BY INSTANCES OF COMPANIES THREATENING TO SUE THE EXCHANGE IF TRADING OF THEIR SHARES WERE TO BE SUSPENDED.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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/25
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
25
MORE EFFECTIVE BANK SUPERVISION PROPOSED
*****
A BILL THAT SEEKS TO FURTHER ENHANCE BANKING SUPERVISORY STANDARDS IN HONG KONG AND TO CLARIFY CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE BANKING ORDINANCE WAS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE BANKING (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993, THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, SAID THE BILL ALSO AIMED TO FACILITATE THE DEVELOPMENT OF CAPITAL MARKETS.
LEGISLATIVE AMENDMENTS ARE INTRODUCED TO ENABLE THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY (HKMA) TO ESTABLISH A CENTRAL CUSTODY SYSTEM FOR DEBT INSTRUMENTS IN PAPERLESS FORM.
FOLLOWING THE COLLAPSE OF THE BCCI GROUP WORLDWIDE, THE BASLE COMMITTEE OF BANKING SUPERVISORS ESTABLISHED STANDARDS FOR THE SUPERVISION OF INTERNATIONAL BANKING GROUPS AND THEIR CROSS-BORDER ESTABLISHMENTS IN JULY 1991.
THE OBJECTIVE OF THE NEW STANDARDS IS TO SEEK WORLDWIDE SUPERVISORY CO-OPERATION TO ENSURE THAT NO BANK CAN OPERATE INTERNATIONALLY WITHOUT BEING SUBJECT TO EFFECTIVE CONSOLIDATED SUPERVISION.
ALTHOUGH HONG KONG’S FRAMEWORK OF CONSOLIDATED SUPERVISION LARGELY CONFORMS WITH THE MINIMUM STANDARDS, THE EXISTING PROVISIONS GOVERNING PRIOR APPROVAL FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF OVERSEAS BANKING ENTITIES BY LOCALLY INCORPORATED AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS FALL SHORT OF THE STANDARDS, MR CARTLAND SAID.
THE BILL PROPOSES THAT A LOCALLY INCORPORATED INSTITUTION, OR ITS LOCALLY INCORPORATED HOLDING COMPANY, BE REQUIRED TO SEEK THE HKMA’S PRIOR APPROVAL BEFORE ESTABLISHING A BANKING SUBSIDIARY OVERSEAS.
AS REGARDS THE PLAN FOR ESTABLISHING A CENTRAL CUSTODY SYSTEM TO PERFORM THE FUNCTIONS OF A CENTRAL CUSTODIAN AND CLEARING AGENT FOR DEBT INSTRUMENTS, THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS WILL GIVE RECOGNITION TO THE RIGHTS AND INTERESTS IN SPECIFIED DEBT INSTRUMENTS IN PAPERLESS FORM.
UNDER THE PROPOSED SYSTEM, A PRIVATE SECTOR ISSUER OF DEBT INSTRUMENTS SUCH AS CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSITS, COMMEIK I AL PAPERS OR FLOATING RATE NOTES WILL ISSUE ONE GLOBAL INSTRUMENT WHICH WILL BE HELD AS BEARER BY THE HKMA.
THE HKMA WILL, ON BEHALF OF ACCEPTABLE DEALERS, RECORD ON A COMPUTER SYSTEM INTERESTS IN THOSE GLOBAL INSTRUMENTS AND FACILITATE THE TRANSFER OF SUCH INTERESTS. THIS WOULD HELP SPEED UP THE SETTLEMENT PROCESS AND REDUCE SETTLEMENT RISK.
THE BILL ALSO INTRODUCES A REQUIREMENT THAT LOCALLY INCORPORATED INSTITUTIONS PUBLISH THEIR AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS IN NEWSPAPERS WITHIN FOUR MONTHS OF THEIR FINANCIAL YEAR END, INSTEAD OF SIX MONTHS.
/MR CARTLAND ......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
26
MR CARTLAND SAID A SHORTER TIME FRAME WOULD GIVE MORE TIMELY INFORMATION TO DEPOSITORS, THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND THE REGULATORS.
FURTHERMORE, IT WILL HELP THE AUDITORS TO CO-ORDINATE THEIR AUDIT WORK ON AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS WITH THE REPORTS WHICH THEY SUBMIT TO THE HKMA UNDER THE ORDINANCE.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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PRELIMINARY INSPECTIONS ON COMPANIES
*****
A BILL AIMING AT FACILITATING THE INVOCATION OF THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S POWER UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE TO CONDUCT PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATIONS ON COMPANIES WAS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE COMPANIES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 4) BILL 1993, THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, SAID PRELIMINARY INSPECTION REPRESENTED A DISCREET AND LESS COSTLY WAY TO ASSESS WHETHER A FULL-SCALE INVESTIGATION WAS WARRANTED.
"SUCH ENQUIRIES CAN AVOID THE POTENTIAL DISRUPTION TO A COMPANY THAT MIGHT BE CAUSED BY A FULL-SCALE INVESTIGATION,” HE SAID.
AT PRESENT, IF THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S ATTENTION IS DRAWN TO A SITUATION SUGGESTING FRAUD, MISFEASANCE OR OTHER MISCONDUCT IN THE MANAGEMENT OF THE AFFAIRS OF A COMPANY, HE MAY INVOKE SECTION 152A OF THE ORDINANCE TO AUTHORISE A PUBLIC OFFICER TO REQUIRE THE COMPANY CONCERNED TO PRODUCE ITS BOOKS OR PAPERS AND TO ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT THEM.
AN ALTERNATIVE OR SUBSEQUENT MEASURE WOULD BE TO INITIATE A FULL-SCALE INVESTIGATION UNDER SECTION 143 OF THE ORDINANCE.
MR CARTLAND POINTED OUT THAT SECTION 152A HAD NEVER BEEN INVOKED.
"ONE OF THE PROBLEMS WITH THE EXISTING PROVISK)' IS THAT THE ORDINANCE REQUIRES A PUBLIC OFFICER TO BE AUTHORISED Fol.' THIS PURPOSE, WHILE THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT HAVE STAFF WITH EITHER THE TIME OR THE RELEVANT SKILL FOR THIS TYPE OF WORK," HE SAID.
MOREOVER, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY CAN ONLY AUTHORISE A PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION IF HE REACHES THE SAME STATE OF MIND AS WOULD BF. REQUIRED TO INITIATE A FULL-SCALE INVESTIGATION.
AS A RESULT, THE PROVISION FOR PRELIMINARY INSPECTIONS HAS IN EFFECT BEEN RENDERED REDUNDANT.
THE BILL SEEKS TO LOWER THE THRESHOLD FOR INVOKING THE POWER TO AUTHORISE PRELIMINARY INSPECTIONS AND TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT ONLY A PUBLIC OFFICER CAN BE APPOINTED AS AN INSPECTOR.
/MR CARTLAND .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 27 -
MR CARTLAND SAID THIS SHOULD NOT ONLY MAKE THIS USEFUL PROVISION OPERATIONAL BUT WILL ALSO BRING HONG KONG PRACTICE GENERALLY INTO LINE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF SIMILAR LEGISLATION ELSEWHERE.
THE BILL ALSO PROPOSES TO ALLOW GREATER FLEXIBILITY FOR AN INSPECTOR APPOINTED FOR A FULL-SCALE INVESTIGATION TO DELEGATE HIS POWER.
"THIS SHOULD HELP TO SPEED UP THE PROGRESS OF INVESTIGATIONS AND TO CONTAIN COSTS," HE SAID.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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SECURITIES LEVY TO BE ORDERLY SUSPENDED » » » » »
THE INTRODUCTION OF THE EXCHANGES (SPECIAL LEVY) (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) REPRESENTS THE FINAL STEP TOWARDS CLEARING UP THE LAST OUTSTANDING ISSUE LEFT OVER FROM THE 1987 STOCK MARKET CRASH.
THE COMMENT WAS MADE BY THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, WHEN HE MOVED THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL.
THE BILL AIMS AT AMENDING THE LAW FOR AN ORDERLY WINDING DOWN OF THE SPECIAL LEVY ON SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS AS WELL AS STOCK INDEX FUTURES AND OPTIONS CONTRACTS FOR REPAYING PART OF A LIFEBOAT LOAN.
THE LOAN WAS RAISED AFTER THE MARKET CRASH TO ENABLE THE HONG KONG FUTURES GUARANTEE CORPORATION TO MEET ITS OBLIGATIONS. ANOTHER SOURCE OF REPAYMENT IS RECOVERIES FROM DEFAULTERS.
WITH THE HIGH TURNOVER OE THE STOCK MARKET CONTINUING SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THIS YEAR, IT IS ESTIMATED THAT THE PORTION OF THE LOAN TO BE RECOVERED FROM THE SPECIAL LEVY COULD BE FULLY REPAID BY AS EARLY AS AUGUST THIS YEAR, AFTER PROVISIONS HAVE BEEN MADE TO MEET INTEREST AND OTHER COSTS.
"NOW IS THEREFORE THE APPROPRIATE TIME TO PROCEED TO SUSPEND THE SPECIAL LEVY, OTHERWISE A BIG SURPLUS IN THE ORDER OF $100 MILLION TO $200 MILLION COULD BE CREATED IN THE SPECIAL LEVY FUND BY THE END OF THE YEAR,” MR CARTLAND SAID.
THE AMENDMENTS WILL ENABLE THE GOVERNMENT TO SUSPEND THE LEVY WHEN THE REMAINING BALANCE OF THE LIFEBOAT LOAN APPROXIMATES THE REMAINING OBLIGATION OF THE DEFAULTERS.
HE SAID UPON FINAL REPAYMENT OF THE LOAN BY DEFAULTERS, WHICH WAS EXPECTED TO BE EFFECTED BY 1996, THE SPECIAL LEVY WOULD BE FORMALLY ABOLISHED.
HOWEVER, IN THE MEANTIME, THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL MAY REINTRODUCE THE SPECIAL LEVY AFTER ITS SUSPENSION SHOULD CIRCUMSTANCES DEMAND IT, HE ADDED.
/ON THE ........
WENDESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
28
ON THE WAY TO HANDLE ANY CREDIT BALANCE IN THE SPECIAL LEVY FUND, THE BILL SEEKS TO EMPOWER THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES TO DIRECT THE TRANSFER OF ANY SUCH SURPLUS INTO THE COMPENSATION FUNDS ESTABLISHED UNDER THE SECURITIES ORDINANCE OR THE COMMODITIES TRADING ORDINANCE, OR FOR OTHER PURPOSES IN THE INTERESTS OF THE INVESTING PUBLIC.
"IMPROVEMENT TO INVESTOR PROTECTION IS CONSIDERED TO BE THE MOST PROPER USE OF ANY SUCH BALANCE," MR CARTLAND SAID.
THE LIFEBOAT LOAN ORIGINALLY AMOUNTED TO $1.93 BILLION, OF WHICH $1 BILLION WAS RAISED FROM THE GOVERNMENT AND THE REMAINING FROM SEVEN SHAREHOLDERS OF THE HONG KONG FUTURES GUARANTEE CORPORATION AND 15 BROKER LENDERS. ,
THE GOVERNMENT PORTION OF THE LOAN HAI) BEEN FULLY REPAID BY THE END OF SEPTEMBER 1992. BY THE END OF JUNE THIS YEAR, THE OUTSTANDING AMOUNT OWED TO THE OTHER LENDERS WAS ABOUT $256 MILLION.
MR CARTLAND SAID THE REFORM MEASURES INTRODUCED AFTER THE MARKET CRASH HAD PROVEN THEIR WORTH IN SUBSEQUENT FLUCTUATIONS OF THE STOCK AND FUTURES MARKETS WHEN TRADING HAD BEEN ORDERLY DESPITE EXCEPTIONAL MARKET VOLATILITY.
"INVESTORS’ CONFIDENCE IN OUR REGULATORY FRAMEWORK HAS RETURNED, AS CAN BE DEMONSTRATED BY THE STEADY GROWTH OF THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES MARKETS OVER THE PAST TWO YEARS," HE SAID.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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RIGHT OF PNEUMOCONIOT1CS ASSURED *****
THE RIGHT OF A PNEUMOCONIOTIC TO CLAIM DAMAGES AT COMMON LAW AND HIS ELIGIBILITY TO RECEIVE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE UNDER THE SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM WERE ASSURED BY THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING DURING THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 IN THE LEGISLATIVI COUNCIL, MR LEUNG SAID THESE TWO ISSUES WERE OF PARTICULAR CONCERN BY MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL’S BILLS COMMITTEE.
HE AFFIRMED THAT PNEUMOCONIOTICS WHO WERE EITHER RECEIVING COMPENSATION UNDER THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) ORDINANCE OR EX-GRATIA PAYMENT UNDER THE EX-GRATIA SCHEME WOULD CONTINUE TO RECEIVE DISABILITY ALLOWANCES UNDER THE SOCIAL SECURITY ALLOWANCE SCHEME IF THEY WERE SO ENTITLED.
ALSO, THEIR ELIGIBILITY TO RECEIVE COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE WOULD NOT BE AFFECTED IF, AS UNDER THE EXISTING CONDITION, THEIR SAVINGS DID NOT EXCEED THE PERMISSIBLE LEVEL.
/AS REGARDS .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 29 -
AS REGARDS A PNEUMOCONIOTIC’S RIGHT TO CLAIM DAMAGES AT COMMON I,AW, MR LEUNG SAID THIS WOULD BE SUBJECT TO THE NORMAL COURT PROCEDURES AND THE PROVISIONS OF THE LIMITATION ORDINANCE,
THE AMENDMENT BILL AIMS TO INTRODUCE A NUMBER OF IMPROVEMENTS TO THE COMPENSATION SCHEME FOR PNEUMOCONIOSIS SUFFERERS DIAGNOSED ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 1981.
ON THE SUGGESTION OF THE BILLS COMMITTEE, MR LEUNG MOVED A NUMBER OF COMMITTEE STAGE AMENDMENTS. THESE INCLUDE:
* THE BILL WILL COME INTO IMMEDIATE EFFECT UPON ENACTMENT BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL;
* THE NEW RATE OF LEVY, DUE TO BE INCREASED FROM 0.02 PER CENT TO 0.3 PER CENT LATER THIS YEAR, WILL NOT APPLY TO THOSE CONSTRUCTION WORKS THE TENDER FOR WHICH HAS BEEN SUBMlTTEt) BEFORE THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE NEW RATE; AND
» REPLACE "MECHANICAL WHEELCHAIR" IN THE AMENDMENT BILL BY "WHEELCHAIR" TO GIVE MORE FLEXIBILITY TO THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS MEDICAL BOARD IN DETERMINING THE TYPE OF WHEELCHAIR THAT SUITS THE USER;
AS FOR THE PROPOSAL TO GIVE FUNERAL EXPENSES TO PNEUMOCONlOTtCS IRRESPECTIVE OF THE REASON OF DEATH, MR LEUNG SAID HE COULD NOT ACCEPT THIS AS IT WAS AGAINST THE GOVERNMENT PRINCIPLE OF PROVIDING COMPENSATION TO WORKERS WHO DIED OR WERE INJURED AS A RESULT OF AN INCIDENT OR AN OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE RELATING TO THEIR EMPLOYMENT.
"THIS PRINCIPLE IS APPLIED UNDER THE EXISTING COMPENSATION ORDINANCE AS WELL AS THE EMPLOYEES COMPENSATION ORDINANCE," HE EXPLAINED.
"HOWEVER, THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS MEDICAL BOARD HAS A TRACK RECORD OF MAINTAINING A SYMPATHETIC AND FLEXIBLE APPROACH AND THERE HAS BEEN NO COMPLAINTS SO FAR FROM FUNERAL EXPENSES ON THESE CASES."
- - 0---------
LAND DRAINAGE BILL INTRODUCED INTO LEGCO
*****
A BILL THAT PROPOSES IMPROVEMENT IN THE GOVERNMENT’S ABILITY TO UNDERTAKE DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE WORK TO HELP PREVENT FLOODING WAS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE LAND DRAINAGE BILL, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID THE BILL WOULD EMPOWER THE GOVERNMENT TO GAIN ACCESS TO PRIVATE LAND TO CARRY OUT NECESSARY DRAINAGE WORK AND TO REQUIRE .THE REMOVAL OF OBSTRUCTIONS OR STRUCTURES FROM MAIN WATERCOURSES.
/THE BILL
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
30
THE RILL PROVIDES POR THE ESTABLISHMENT OP A NEW DRAINAGE AUTHORITY, WHICH WILL BE THE DIRECTOR OP DRAINAGE SERVICES, AND A DRAINAGE APPEAL BOARD (DAB).
THE AUTHORITY MAY PREPARE DRAFT DRAINAGE PLANS FOR THE DESIGNATION OF MAIN WATERCOURSES ON WHICH DRAINAGE WORK MAY BE CARRIED OUT.
IT IS INTENDED THAT FIVE DRAINAGE PLANS, COVERING ALMOST ALL THE FLOOD-PRONE REGIONS OF THE NORTH AND NORTH-WESTERN NEW TERRITORIES, WILL BE PREPARED OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS.
THE MAIN FUNCTIONS OF THE DAB, WHICH WILL COMPRISE NONGOVERNMENT MEMBERS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR, WILL BE TO REVIEW THE AUTHORITY’S DECISIONS ON OBJECTIONS TO DRAFT PLANS AND TO HEAR APPEALS UNDER THE BILL.
APART FROM PROVIDING APPEAL PROCEDURES, PROVISION HAS ALSO BEEN MADE UNDER THE BILL FOR PAYMENT OF COMPENSATION IF DAMAGE IS CAUSED BY THE AUTHORITY WHEN EXECUTING THE WORKS.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
- - 0 - -
RESOLUTIONS ON CMB AND CITYBUS FRANCHISE PASSED
*******
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) PASSED TWO RESOLUTIONS THAT SOUGHT TO DISAPPLY TO THE NEW FRANCHISE FOR CHINA MOTOR BUS COMPANY (CMB) AND CITYBUS LIMITED THOSE SECTIONS OF THE PUBLIC BUS SERVICES ORDINANCE GOVERNING THE PERMITTED RETURN UNDER THE PROFIT CONTROL SCHEME.
MOVING THE RESOLUTIONS, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG, SAID THOSE SECTIONS OF THE ORDINANCE WHICH ENABLED THE GOVERNMENT TO SPECIFY DEPRECIATION RATES IN RESPECT OF FRANCHISE-RELATED ASSETS AND TO REQUIRE THE COMPANIES TO PRODUCE ACCOUNTS AND OTHER INFORMATION NEEDED FOR THE MONITORING OF THEIR PERFORMANCE WERE RETAINED.
IN ADDITION, IN THE CASE OF CMB, THOSE SECTIONS WHICH ENABLED THE GOVERNMENT TO PRESCRIBE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE DISPOSAL OF ANY BALANCE THAT MAY REMAIN IN CMB’S DEVELOPMENT FUND ACCOUNT ON AUGUST 31 THIS YEAR WERE ALSO RETAINED.
- - 0 - -
/31
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 1993
- 31 -
LEGCO PASSES MOTION ON SERVICE INDUSTRY *****
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TONIGHT (WEDNESDAY) PASSED A MOTION PROPOSED BY DR THE HON HUANG CHEN-YA ON THE POLICY ON SERVICE INDUSTRY AFTER A DEBATE THAT LASTED ONE AND A HALF HOURS.
TWELVE MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE DEBATE. THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, REPLIED FOR THE GOVERNMENT.
ANOTHER MOTION MOVED BY THE HON LAU WAH-SUM ON RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STUDY WAS ALSO PASSED AFTER A TWO-HOUR DEBATE.
A TOTAL OF 17 MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE DEBATE. THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG, SPOKE ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT.
ALSO PASSED WERE TWO RESOLUTIONS MADE UNDER THE PUBLIC BUS SERVICES ORDINANCE AS WELL AS SEVEN MOTIONS UNDER THE INTERPRETATION AND GENERAL CLAUSES ORDINANCE.
THE COUNCIL PASSED SIX BILLS. OF THEM, BANK NOTES ISSUE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 AND EXCHANGE FUND (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 WERE PASSED WITHOUT AMENDMENTS.
THE OTHER FOUR BILLS - PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993, MERCHANT SHIPPING (LIMITATION OF SHIPOWNERS LIABILITY) BILL, INLAND REVENUE (AMENDMENT) (NO. 5) BILL 1992 AND INSURANCE COMPANIES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) BILL 1992 - WERE PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS.
---------0 - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR PRAISES EDUCATION PROFESSION FOR VITALITY .......... 1
WATER SUPPLY TO HK DISCUSSED ................................ 2
STI WELCOMES TARIFF REDUCTION PACKAGE ....................... 3
STATEMENT ON EXTRA INJECTION INTO AIRPORT PROJECTS .......... 4
HELP THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED: CS APPEALS ................... 4
WHARF CABLE PROGRESS REPORT CONSIDERED ...................... 5
VOLUME AND PRICE MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN APRIL ....... 6
NEW TB CASES SHOW SMALL RISE ................................ 12
ONE CANDIDATE ENTERS LEGCO BY-ELECTION ...................... 13
NOMINATIONS INVITED FOR OUTSTANDING DISABLED EMPLOYEES ...... 13
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS . 14
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
EDUCATION PROFESSION PRAISED FOR VITALITY ♦ * * ♦ »
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, SAID HE HAD BEEN DEEPLY IMPRESSED BY THE VITALITY OF THE EDUCATION PROFESSION IN HONG KONG.
SPEAKING AT THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY OF THE HONG KONG OUTSTANDING EDUCATORS AWARD 1992 TODAY (THURSDAY), HE SAID IMPROVEMENT TO AN EDUCATION SYSTEM REQUIRED STEADY AND SUSTAINED COMMITMENT WHICH THE GOVERNMENT WOULD PROVIDE.
"BUT I KNOW FULL WELL THAT THE SUCCESS OF ANY OF OUR PLANS DEPENDS ON THE RESPONSE OF INDIVIDUAL TEACHERS THEMSELVES,” MR PATTEN SAID.
"IN MY POLICY ADDRESS LAST OCTOBER, I MADE EDUCATION POLICY A KEY PART OF MY PROPOSALS, AND I SET OUT MEASURES TO HELP TEACHERS AT THE HEART OF THAT POLICY,” HE SAID.
THE GOVERNOR SAID A NUMBER OF GOALS WERE SET. MORE TEACHERS WILL BE PROVIDED FOR PRIMARY SCHOOLS FROM SEPTEMBER, AND FOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS FROM NEXT YEAR.
CLASS SIZES WILL BE REDUCED TO NO MORE THAN 35, STARTING WITH PRIMARY 1 CLASSES IN SEPTEMBER. ANOTHER GOAL IS TO OPERATE ALL NEW PRIMARY SCHOOLS ON A WHOLE-DAY BASIS.
TO MEET THESE GOALS, 780 NEW TEACHERS ARE NEEDED FOR SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR.
’’THE RECRUITING AND TRAINING PROGRAMMES NEEDED TO ACHIEVE THIS ARE IN PLACE. AND I CAN ASSURE YOU THAT WE WILL MEET THESE GOALS," MR PATTEN SAID.
HE TOLD REPORTERS AFTER THE CEREMONY THAT HE WANTED TO SEE HONG KONG DO MORE IN THE EDUCATION SECTOR TO HELP TEACHERS RAISE THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION.
HE ADDED THAT MORE AND BETTER SCHOOLS SHOULD BE PROVIDED AND YOUNG PEOPLE SHOULD BE GIVEN A BETTER OPPORTUNITY OF THE SORT OF STARTING LIFE WHICH THEY DESERVED.
’’AND I VERY MUCH HOPE THAT, OVER THE NEXT FOUR YEARS, WE’LL BE ABLE TO LAY THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A SECURE SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL FUTURE FOR EVERYONE IN HONG KONG,” HE SAID.
A PROVISIONAL GOVERNING COUNCIL HAS BEEN SET UP TO PLAN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION TO HELP IMPROVE TEACHER TRAINING AND EDUCATION.
ALSO, A COMMITTEE HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED TO ARRANGE THE INTRODUCTION OF COURSES IN TERTIARY INSTITUTES TO ENABLE SERVING TEACHERS TO UPGRADE THEIR QUALIFICATIONS.
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/2 .......
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
2
WATER SUPPLY TO HK DISCUSSED »*♦♦***
AT THE INVITATION OF DIRECTOR GUAN ZONGZHI ON BEHALF OF THE GUANGDONG PROVINCIAL BUREAU OF WATER CONSERVANCY AND HYDRO-POWER, A DELEGATION FROM THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT LED BY SECRETARY FOR WORKS, MR JAMES BLAKE, VISITED GUANGZHOU FOR THE FOURTH ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING.
THIS WAS HELD DURING THE PERIOD JULY 5-8 TO DISCUSS MATTERS RELATED TO THE SUPPLY OF WATER TO HONG KONG.
ITEMS DISCUSSED INCLUDED A REVIEW OF WATER SUPPLY ARRANGEMENTS AND RAW-WATER QUALITY, PROGRESS OF THE STAGE III UPGRADING WORKS FOR THE INCREASED WATER SUPPLY COVERED BY THE 1989 AGREEMENT, AND THE BASE PRICES FOR WATER TO BE PURCHASED FROM GUANGDONG DURING THE YEARS 1994 UNTIL 1996 INCLUSIVE.
DIRECTOR GUAN CONFIRMED THAT THE UPGRADING WORKS WERE EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED ALMOST A YEAR AHEAD OF SCHEDULE.
DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES, MR M S HU, CONFIRMED THAT THE HONG KONG RECEIVING FACILITIES WOULD BE COMPLETED ACCORDINGLY.
BOTH DIRECTORS AGREED THAT WORKING MEETINGS AT SUB-GROUP LEVEL WOULD BE HELD FREQUENTLY AS INTENDED BY THE 1989 AGREEMENT, TO ENSURE THE CLOSEST POSSIBLE LIAISON BETWEEN THE SUPPLY AND RECEIVING OPERATIONS, PARTICULARLY RATE OF SUPPLY ADJUSTMENTS TO ALLOW FOR STORAGE LEVELS IN THE HONG KONG RESERVOIRS.
AS AGREED, 668 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER WILL BE SUPPLIED DURING THE WATER YEAR ENDING FEBRUARY 1994.
LONG TERM DEMAND FORECAST TRENDS FOR HONG KONG WATER WERE DISCUSSED, AND IT WAS RE-CONFIRMED THAT ADEQUATE ALLOWANCE HAD BEEN MADE IN PLANNING THE USAGE OF GUANGDONG WATER RESOURCES TO PROVIDE FOR HONG KONG REQUIREMENTS, THROUGH THE NEXT DECADE AND BEYOND.
DIRECTOR GUAN MADE SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE MEASURES BEING TAKEN BY THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT FOR IMPLEMENTATION THROUGH THE BUREAU, TO PROTECT WATER RESOURCES IN GUANGDONG PROVINCE FROM HARMFUL POLLUTION.
RECENT CONCERNS RAISED BY WATER USERS IN HONG . )NG HAD BEEN DEALT WITH BY CLOSE CO-OPERATION BETWEEN TECHNICAL EXPERTS ON BOTH SIDES.
DETAILED DISCUSSIONS RESULTED IN AGREEMENT ON BASE PRICES FOR RAW WATER TO BE PURCHASED DURING THE NEXT THREE YEARS UNDER THE TERMS OF PREVIOUS AGREEMENTS.
DESPITE THE RELATIVELY HIGH PRICE INDEX IN THE RECENT PERIOD ARISING FROM THE FAST DEVELOPING PUBLIC AND PRIVATE BUILDING PROGRAMME, THE BUREAU HAS UNDERTAKEN TO OVERCOME THE EXISTING DIFFICULTIES IN SO FAR AS THE AGREED PRICE INCREASES ARK BEING HELD DOWN IN FAVOUR OF HONG KONG.
/THE MEETING ......
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
- 3 -
THE MEETINGS WERE SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDED ON SCHEDULE, AND BOTH SIDES WILL SUBMIT THE REPORT FROM THE MEETINGS TO THEIR RESPECTIVE GOVERNMENTS, SEEKING EARLIEST POSSIBLE APPROVAL OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS SET DOWN THEREIN.
SECRETARY FOR WORKS, MR JAMES BLAKE, EXPRESSED APPRECIATION TO DIRECTOR GUAN ZONGZHI FOR THE CONTINUED ATTENTION BY GUANGDONG BUREAU IN MEETING THE WATER NEEDS OF HONG KONG.
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STI WELCOMES TARIFF REDUCTION PACKAGE *****
THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR CHAU TAK-HAY, TODAY (THURSDAY) WELCOMED THE ANNOUNCEMENT THAT TRADE MINISTERS OF THE GROUP OF SEVEN HAVE TENTATIVELY AGREED ON A TARIFF REDUCTION PACKAGE IN TOKYO.
"THIS IS THE MOST POSITIVE NEWS WE HAVE HAD FOR A LONG TIME,” MR CHAU SAID.
"I WELCOME THE ANNOUNCEMENT. 1 NOTE THAT NOT ALL OF THE OUTSTANDING ISSUES HAVE BEEN AGREED AND THAT SOME OF THE DETAILS ARE MISSING, BUT I HOPE THAT THIS PACKAGE WILL BE SUFFICIENT TO ALLOW MULTILATERAL NEGOTIATIONS TO GET UNDER WAY AGAIN IN GENEVA," HE SAID.
MR CHAU EXPRESSED CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM ON THE PROSPECTS FOR CONCLUDING THE URUGUAY ROUND BY THE END OF THE YEAR.
"PROGRESS IN THE URUGUAY ROUND HAS BEEN STALLED FOR OVER A YEAR-AND-A-HALF BECAUSE OF SERIOUS DISAGREEMENT AMONGST THE MAJOR ECONOMIES. IT APPEARS THEY HAVE REACHED A BROAD AGREEMENT ON LOWERING TARIFFS.
"PROVIDED THEY AND THE OTHER PARTICIPANTS IN THE URUGUAY ROUND CAN REACH AGREEMENT ON SERVICES AND AGRICULTURE, IT SHOULD BE POSSIBLE TO CONCLUDE THE ROUND BY MID-DECEMBER," HE SAID.
MR CHAU NOTED THAT HONG KONG PLAYED AN ACTIVE PART IN THE URUGUAY ROUND NEGOTIATIONS AS A SEPARATE CONTRACTING PARTY TO THE GATT.
"HONG KONG LOOKS FORWARD TO PLAYING ITS PART IN RESOLVING THE OUTSTANDING ISSUES IN GENEVA. IN OUR VIEW WORK SHOULD NOW FOCUS ON THE REMAINING MARKET ACCESS ISSUES, RATHER THAN ATTEMPTING TO FIDDLE WITH THE REST OF THE DRAFT FINAL AGREEMENT WHICH WAS WORKED OUT IN GENEVA AT THE END OF 1991," HE SAID.
/4 ........
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
4
STATEMENT ON EXTRA INJECTION INTO AIRPORT PROJECTS *****
COMMENTING ON REPORTS THAT THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TOLD A MEETING POINT DELEGATION THIS AFTERNOON THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS PLANNING TO INJECT MORE THAN $10 BILLION EXTRA EQUITY INTO AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME PROJECTS, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID:
I
’’THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, DID NOT REFER TO ANY FIGURES RELATING TO POSSIBLE GOVERNMENT EQUITY INJECTIONS INTO V AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME PROJECTS WHEN HE MET A DELEGATION FROM MEETING POINT THIS AFTERNOON TO HEAR THEIR VIEWS ON SPENDING PRIORITIES FOR THE 1994/95 BUDGET.
MR FRED LI ASKED THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO CONFIRM MEDIA REPORTS THAT AN EXTRA $10 BILLION WAS TO BE INJECTED. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY DECLINED TO COMMENT ON ANY FIGURE.
WHAT MR MACLEOD DID SAY WAS TO REASSURE MR LI THAT, IF THERE WERE TO BE ANY EXTRA INJECTION, IT WOULD COME FROM THE CAPITAL INVESTMENT FUND AND THUS WOULD NOT HAVE ANY IMPACT ON PUBLIC WORKS EXPENDITURE; BUT HE DID NOT CONFIRM THAT THERE WOULD BE ANY EXTRA FUNDING, NOR DID HE MENTION ANY FIGURE."
------0--------
HELP THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED: CS APPEALS
*****
THE ULTIMATE GOAL OF REHABILITATION IS TO HELP PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES LEAD AN INDEPENDENT AND FULFILLING LIFE, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE HANDING-OVER CEREMONY AND OPEN DAY OF CARITAS LOK YI SCHOOL, SIR DAVID SAID THIS GOAL COULD BE ACHIEVED PRIMARILY THROUGH OPEN EMPLOYMENT.
HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S EFFORT WOULD NEVER BE SUFFICIENT ON THIS SCORE.
"COMMUNITY SUPPORT MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE. EMPLOYERS SHOULD TRY TO EMPLOY MENTALLY HANDICAPPED PEOPLE," HE SAID.
HE SAID THERE WERE A NUMBER OF WAYS IN WHICH THE COMMUNITY COULD HELP THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED:
» TO RESPECT THE RIGHTS OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES;
* TO TRY TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THEM; AND
* TO BE INVOLVED IN THE DELIVERY OF REHABILITATION SERVICES.
"THE MORE WE INTERACT WITH THEM, THE MORE WE BECOME AWARE OF THEIR SPECIAL NEEDS AND ABILITIES, AND THE MORE WE WILL BE ABLE TO HELP THEM INTEGRATE INTO OUR COMMUNITY," HE ADDED.
/SPONSORED BY .......
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
5
SPONSORED BY THE CARITAS, LOK YI SCHOOL CAN ACCOMMODATE 80 SEVERELY MENTALLY HANDICAPPED CHILDREN IN DAY TIME WITH BOARDING FACILITIES FOR 60 OF THEM.
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT (ASD) OFFICIALLY HANDED OVER THE SCHOOL TO THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AFTER THE CEREMONY.
THE BUILDING OF THE SCHOOL TOOK 12 MONTHS TO COMPLETE WITH A PRICE TAG OF $20 MILLION.
IT IS THE SECOND SPECIAL SCHOOL BUILT BY THE ASD.
SIX OTHER SPECIAL SCHOOLS ARE AT VARIOUS STAGES OF CONSTRUCTION, WITH A NUMBER OF OTHER PROJECTS ON THE DRAWING BOARD.
THE DIRECTOR OF ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES, MR PAUL CORSER, DESCRIBED THESE PROJECTS AS VERY REWARDING.
"WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO HELP MEET THE NEEDS OF THE LESS FORTUNATE CHILDREN IN OUR COMMUNITY," MR CORSER SAID AT THE CEREMONY.
HE ALSO SAID IN DESIGNING THE SPECIAL SCHOOLS, HIS DEPARTMENT AIMED AT PROVIDING AN ATTRACTIVE AND FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE FOR BOTH CHILDREN AND STAFF.
"WE ARE CONSCIOUS OF DESIGNING TO A HUMAN SCALE AND TRY TO AVOID ANY INSTITUTIONAL REFERENCES IN ORDER TO CREATE A RELAXED ATMOSPHERE.
"IN THE CASE OF LOK YI SCHOOL, I BELIEVE WE HAVE ACHIEVED THIS GOAL," HE ADDED.
------0-------
WHARF CABLE PROGRESS REPORT CONSIDERED
******
THE BROADCASTING AUTHORITY (BA) MET TODAY (THURSDAY) TO CONSIDER THE FIRST PROGRESS REPORT SUBMITTED BY WHARF CABLE AND WAS PLEASED TO NOTE THE EFFORTS BEING PUT INTO MEETING THE OCTOBER 1993 LAUNCH DATE.
THE AUTHORITY WELCOMED THE APPOINTMENT OF THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS, MR ALEXANDER ARENA, TO THE AUTHORITY TO REPLACE THE POSTMASTER GENERAL FOLLOWING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE OFFICE OF THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY ON JULY 1.
THE BA ALSO ENDORSED THAT A TELEVISION BROADCASTING SURVEY BE CONDUCTED WITHIN THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1993/94. THE SURVEY WOULD PROVIDE USEFUL DATA FOR CONDUCTING THE MID-TERM REVIEW OF WIRELESS TELEVISION LICENCES IN 1994.
AT THE MEETING, BA ALSO CONSIDERED METRO BROADCAST’S FAILURE TO BROADCAST THE STIPULATED AMOUNT OF NEWS AND WEATHER PROGRAMMES ON THE METRO PLUS CHANNEL AS REQUIRED UNDER THE SOUND BROADCASTING LICENCE DURING THE PERIOD JUNE 8 TO 20 THIS YEAR.
/THE BA .......
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
6
THE BA DECIDED TO ISSUE A STRONG WARNING TO METRO BROADCAST WHICH WAS ALSO ASKED TO DRAW THE ATTENTION OF ITS STAFF TO ALL THE RELEVANT PROVISIONS IN THE SOUND BROADCASTING LICENCE.
AS A REGULAR ITEM OF THE AGENDA, THE BA ALSO CONSIDERED REPORT OF ITS COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE AND ENDORSED THE COMMITTEE’S DECISION IN RESPECT OF ALL THE COMPLAINTS DEALT WITH IN THE PAST MONTH.
ELEVEN COMPLAINTS ABOUT UNSATISFACTORY TELEVISION AND RADIO RECEPTION HAD ALSO BEEN REFERRED TO THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY FOR INVESTIGATION.
------0--------
VOLUME AND PRICE MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN APRIL
IN THE FIRST FOUR MONTHS OF 1993, THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WAS VIRTUALLY UNCHANGED AS COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR, WHILE THAT OF RE-EXPORTS RECORDED A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE OF 26%, ACCORDING TO THE STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
TAKING DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS TOGETHER, THE VOLUME OF TOTAL EXPORTS INCREASED BY 21%. IMPORTS INCREASED BY 19% IN VOLUME.
THE GROWTH IN THE VOLUME OF TRADE IS DERIVED FROM THE GROWTH IN 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 WERE ABOUT THE SAME WHILE THOSE OF REEXPORTS DECREASED BY 0.7%. IMPORT PRICES DECREASED BY 1.1%.
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 SLIGHTLY BY 0.7% IN THE FIRST FOUR MONTHS OF 1993 AS COMPARED WITH SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
TAKING APRIL 1993 ALONE AND COMPARING WITH APRIL 1992, THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WAS VIRTUALLY UNCHANGED WHILE THAT OF REEXPORTS INCREASED BY 27%. THE VOLUME OF TOTAL EXPORTS INCREASED BY 21%. THE VOLUME OF IMPORTS GREW BY 19%.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCREASED BY 0.7%. THOSE OF RE-EXPORTS AND IMPORTS REMAINED UNCHANGED.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY PRINCIPAL COMMODITY GROUP ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 1.
COMPARING APRIL 1993 WITH APRIL 1992, COMMODITY GROUPS WHICH RECORDED SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES IN THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCLUDED METAL ORES AND SCRAP (+15%); AND ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS (+13%).
/ON THE ........
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
7
ON THE OTHER HAND, CONSIDERABLE DECREASES IN THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE RECORDED FOR TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED ARTICLES (-47%); FOOTWEAR (-46%); AND RADIOS OF ALL KINDS (-34%).
AS REGARDS DOMESTIC EXPORT PRICES, THE PRICE OF FOOTWEAR RECORDED A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE OF 4.8%.
ON THE OTHER HAND, DECREASES IN DOMESTIC EXPORT PRICES WERE RECORDED FOR RADIOS OF ALL KINDS (-8.5%); AND TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD (-6.7%).
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF IMPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 2.
THE IMPORT VOLUME OF FOODSTUFFS DECREASED BY 24% IN APRIL 1993 AS COMPARED WITH APRIL 1992.
CONSIDERABLE DECREASES WERE RECORDED FOR THE IMPORT VOLUME OF WHEAT AND FLOUR; ANIMALS OF THE BOVINE SPECIES; AND SWINE.
ON THE OTHER HAND, CONSIDERABLE INCREASE WAS RECORDED IN THE IMPORT VOLUME OF SOYA BEAN OIL, PEANUT OIL, VEGETABLE OIL AND LARD.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE IMPORT VOLUME OF CONSUMER GOODS INCREASED BY 28%.
COMMODITY ITEMS WITH CONSIDERABLE INCREASES IN IMPORT VOLUME INCLUDED PASSENGER MOTOR CARS; AND FOOTWEAR. HOWEVER, DECREASE IN IMPORT VOLUME WAS NOTED FOR TOBACCO MANUFACTURES.
THE IMPORT VOLUME OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES INCREASED BY 10% IN APRIL 1993 AS COMPARED WITH APRIL 1992.
SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN IMPORT VOLUME WERE NOTED FOR TRON AND STEEL; WOOD, LUMBER AND CORK; AND WOVEN FABRICS OF WOOL AND MIXTURES.
HOWEVER, CONSIDERABLE DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE IMPORT VOLUME OF RAW COTTON; AND INEDIBLE ANIMAL AND VEGETABLE MATERIALS.
IMPORTS OF FUELS INCREASED BY 84% IN VOLUME IN APRIL 1993 AS COMPARED WITH APRIL 1992. AS REGARDS CAPITAL GOODS, THE IMPORT VOLUME INCREASED BY 32%.
NOTABLE INCREASES WERE RECORDED FOR THE IMPORT VOLUME OF CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY; AND TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT.
COMPARING APRIL 1993 WITH APRIL 1992, THE IMPORT PRICES OF FUELS AND CAPITAL GOODS INCREASED BY 11% AND 4.5% RESPECTIVELY.
THE IMPORT PRICES OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES DECREASED BY 3.2%. THOSE OF CONSUMER GOODS AND FOODSTUFFS SHOWED LITTLE CHANGES.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 3.
/COMPARING APRIL ......
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
8
COMPARING APRIL 1993 WITH APRIL 1992, THE VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS OF FUELS AND CAPITAL GOODS GREW SUBSTANTIALLY BY 56% AND 45% RESPECTIVELY.
THAT OF CONSUMER GOODS; AND RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES REGISTERED INCREASES OF 28% AND 18% RESPECTIVELY. HOWEVER, THE VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS OF FOODSTUFFS DECREASED BY 17%.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF RE-EXPORTS OF FUELS; CAPITAL GOODS AND CONSUMER GOODS INCREASED BY 5.4%, 2.7% AND 0.9% RESPECTIVELY.
ON THE OTHER HAND, THE RE-EXPORT PRICES OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES; AND FOODSTUFFS DECREASED BY 2.7% AND 1.2% RESPECTIVELY.
DETAILS OF THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE PUBLISHED IN THE APRIL 1993 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG TRADE INDEX NUMBERS".
THE REPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE ON SALE AROUND JULY 10 AT $8.5 A COPY AT EITHER THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL; OR 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 OR ON TEL 842 8802 AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE INDICES TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 582 4918.
/TABLE 1 .......
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
9
TABLE 1 : CHANGES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY PRINCIPAL COMMODITY GROUP
COMMODITY GROUP COMPARING APR 1993 WITH APR 1992 COMPARING JAN-APR 1993 WITH JAN-APR 1992
VALUE % UNIT VALUE VOLUME VALUE % UNIT VALUE VOLUME
% % % %
CLOTHING 0.7 H 2.7 -2.0 i 00 co i 2.6 - -10.7
TEXTILE FABRICS -13.6 -4. 1 -9.9 4.9 -2.1 7.1
TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD -7.7 -6.7 -1 . 1 -1.1 -6.1 5.4
TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED ARTICLES -46.4 0.3 - 46.5 -26.7 1.9 - 28.1
RADIOS OF ALL KINDS -39.7 -8.5 - 34.0 -17.0 -9.3 -8.4
ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS 10.3 -2.7 13.4 22.1 -2.4 24.9
FOOTWEAR -43.9 4.8 - 46.4 -41.9 6.8 - 45.7
METAL MANUFACTURES 2.5 -4.6 7.5 3.3 -3.4 6.8
METAL ORES AND SCRAP 11.4 -2.6 14.5 13.1 -3.2 16.8
WATCHES AND CLOCKS -3.8 2.2 -5.7 -9.0 » -9.1
TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR ARTICLES -10.7 -3.1 -7.8 -29.4 -2.3 - 27.9
DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES -15.5 -3.2 - 12.5 -22.0 -3.6 - 19.1
ALL COMMODITIES 0.5 0.7 -0.1 0.2 0.3 -0.1
» LESS THAN 0.05%
/TABLE 2 .......
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
10
TABLE 2 : CHANGES IN IMPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY
END-USE CATEGORY COMPARING APR 1993 WITH APR 1992 COMPARING JAN-APR 1993 WITH JAN-APR 1992
VALUE % UNIT VALUE VOLUME VALUE % UNIT VALUE VOLUME
% % % %
FOODSTUFFS -24 . 1 -0.2 - -23.9 -3.4 i i 1 co 1 o i i i -3.1
CONSUMER GOODS 28.2 0.3 27.9 19.7 -0.5 20.3
RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES 6.4 -3.2 10.0 10.5 -3.9 15.1
FUELS 102.7 10.5 83.5 46.4 6.0 38.3
CAPITAL GOODS 38.2 4.5 32.3 35.0 2.9 31 .2
ALL COMMODITIES 19.2 -0.1 19.4 18.1 -1 . 1 19.4
/TABLE 3 .......
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
- 11 -
TABLE 3 : CHANGES IN RE-EXPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY
COMPARING APR 1993 WITH APR 1992 COMPARING WITH JAN-APR 1993 JAN-APR 1992
UNIT UNIT
END-USE CATEGORY VALUE VALUE VOLUME VALUE VALUE VOLUME
% % % % % %
FOODSTUFFS -18.4 -1.2 -17.3 -4.2 -1.6 -2.6
CONSUMER GOODS 29.1 0.9 28.0 22.8 * 22.7
RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES 14.5 -2.7 17.7 17.9 -3.6 22.2
FUELS 64.9 5.4 56.4 48.5 1.4 46.5
CAPITAL GOODS 48.8 2.7 44.8 52.1 1.8 49.3
ALL COMMODITIES 26.8 0.1 26.7 25.3 -0.7 26.2
* LESS THAN 0.05%
---------0 - -
/12 ........
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
12
NEW TB CASES SHOW SMALL RISE *****
THE NUMBER OF NEWLY NOTIFIED TUBERCULOSIS CASES IN HONG KONG HAS SHOWN A SLIGHT INCREASE LAST YEAR WITH 6,534 CASES REPORTED, COMPARED WITH 6,283 CASES IN 1991.
THIS WAS ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH AND PRESIDENT OF THE HONG KONG TUBERCULOSIS, CHEST AND HEART DISEASES ASSOCIATION, DR S H LEE, AT THE ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING.
DR LEE SAID THE NOTIFICATION RATE WAS 112.4 PER 100,000 POPULATION COMPARED WITH 109.2 IN 1991.
TUBERCULOSIS MORTALITY REMAINED MORE OR LESS THE SAME WITH DEATH RATE BEING 7.1 PER 100,000 POPULATION IN THE PAST TWO CONSECUTIVE YEARS, HE ADDED.
AMONG VIETNAMESE REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS, 309 WERE FOUND TO HAVE ACTIVE TUBERCULOSIS IN THE COURSE OF MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS AS REQUIRED UNDER THE REPATRIATION OR RESETTLEMENT SCHEME.
IT IS NOTED THAT THE INCIDENCE RATE OF TUBERCULOSIS AMONG THEM HAS BEEN HIGHER THAN THE LOCAL POPULATION, DR LEE SAID.
HE NOTED THAT THE SITUATION OF TUBERCULOSIS HAD BEEN CAUSING WORLDWIDE CONCERN IN RECENT YEARS.
"DURING THE WORLD CONGRESS IN WASHINGTON, USA IN NOVEMBER 1992, MANY RENOWNED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS HAVE EXPRESSED THEIR WORRIES ON THE CONTROL OF THE DISEASE IN RELATION TO THE PANDEMIC OF HIV INFECTION AND THE PROBLEM OF MULTIDRUG-RESISTANCE.
"ALTHOUGH HONG KONG IS NOT FACING THE SAME PROBLEM AT PRESENT, ALL PREVENTIVE AND CONTROL MEASURES ON TUBERCULOSIS HAVE TO BE MAINTAINED AND STRENGTHENED," HE SAID.
RESEARCH ON TUBERCULOSIS HAS BEEN CONTINUED TO DEVELOP MODERN CHEMOTHERAPY REGIMENS WHICH WILL BE MORE EFFECTIVE, LESS TOXIC AND EASIER TO ADMINISTER.
"OTHER RESEARCH ON SURVEILLANCE, DEVELOPMENT OF NEW AND RAPID DIAGNOSTIC METHODS WILL NEED TO BE LOOKED INTO IN THE YEARS TO COME," HE SAID.
TURNING TO LUNG CANCER, DR LEE SAID THE REPORTED LUNG CANCER DEATHS WERE 2,761 LAST YEAR COMPARED WITH 2,597 IN 1991.
"AN UNSTEADY TREND OF LUNG CANCER DEATHS IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE UNTIL THE ANTI-CIGARETTE SMOKING EDUCATION CAMPAIGN HAS WON TOTAL PUBLIC CONSCIENCE AND BECOME CONSISTENTLY SUCCESSFUL," HR SAID.
ON PNEUMOCONIOSIS CASES, DR LEE SAID 188 CASES OF SILICOSIS AND TWO CASES OF ASBESTOSIS WERE REPORTED, ASSESSED AND COMPENSATED LAST YEAR.
/’’WITH THE..........
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
13
’’WITH THE ENACTMENT OF THE NEW PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 WHICH WAS PASSED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL YESTERDAY, IT WILL PROVIDE MORE COMPREHENSIVE AND CONTINUING COMPENSATION TO THE PATIENTS FOR INCAPACITY AS A RESULT OF PNEUMOCONIOSIS,” HE SAID.
TO DATE, A TOTAL OF 3,904 PNEUMOCONIOSIS CASES HAVE BEEN COMPENSATED.
ON HEART DISEASES, DR LEE SAID THE DISEASES CLAIMED THE LIVES OF 5,359 PERSONS LAST YEAR, WHICH WERE HIGHER AS COMPARED TO THOSE IN 1991 .
A TOTAL OF 764 CARDIAC OPERATIONS WERE PERFORMED IN THE GRANTHAM HOSPITAL WITH A HIGH SUCCESS RATE.
"IT IS ENCOURAGING TO HAVE THE FIRST HONG KONG HEART TRANSPLANT OPERATION SUCCESSFULLY PERFORMED AT THE GRANTHAM HOSPITAL LAST DECEMBER,” HE ADDED.
------0-------
ONE CANDIDATE ENTERS LEGCO BY-ELECTION * * * * *
ANOTHER CANDIDATE HAS BEEN NOMINATED FOR THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN RESPECT OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCY TODAY (THURSDAY).
HE IS 35-YEAR-OLD MR CHOW YICK-HAY, A UNIVERSITY STAFF MEMBER. HIS CONTACT TELEPHONE IS 785 7979.
THIS BRINGS TO TWO THE TOTAL NUMBER OF NOMINATIONS RECEIVED SINCE THE TWO-WEEK NOMINATION PERIOD BEGAN ON JUNE 25.
THE BY-ELECTION WILL BE HELD ON JULY 28 TO FILL THE SEAT OF MR GILBERT LEUNG KAM-HO.
------0--------
NOMINATIONS INVITED FOR OUTSTANDING DISABLED EMPLOYEES ♦ * * * »
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT IS NOW INVITING EMPLOYERS TO NOMINATE THEIR DISABLED EMPLOYEES FOR THE OUTSTANDING DISABLED EMPLOYEES AWARD (ODEA) 1993.
NOW IN ITS FIFTH YEAR, THE AWARD SERVES AS A RECOGNITION OF THE CONTRIBUTION DISABLED WORKERS MADE TO SOCIETY THROUGH THEIR JOB.
THE ODEA ALSO AIMS TO INCREASE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE WORKING ABILITIES OF DISABLED PERSONS AND TO PROMOTE THEIR EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES.
SENIOR LABOUR OFFICER (SELECTIVE PLACEMENT) MRS JENNIE CHOR SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT SERVICE HAD ACHIEVED A RECORD PLACEMENT OF 1,366 FOR THE YEAR 1992.
/"TO KEEP .......
THURSDAY, JULY 8, 1993
14
"TO KEEP UP THE MOMENTUM, WE HOPE THIS MEANINGFUL EVENT CAN ENCOURAGE MORE EMPLOYERS IN RECOGNISING THE WORKING ABILITIES AND POTENTIALS OF THE DISABLED," SHE ADDED.
"NOMINEES WILL BE SELECTED ON A NUMBER OF CRITERIA INCLUDING OVERALL PERFORMANCE, EFFORTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS IN OVERCOMING DIFFICULTIES, DILIGENCE, DEVOTION AND ACCOMPLISHMENT IN EMPLOYMENT," SHE SAID.
ALL SHORTLISTED NOMINEES ARE REQUIRED TO ATTEND AN INTERVIEW WITH A PANEL OF JUDGES. RESULTS OF THE ODEA WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER.
SUCCESSFUL NOMINEES WILL EACH BE AWARDED A SOUVENIR PLAQUE AND THEIR NOMINATORS WILL ALSO RECEIVE A SOUVENIR. THEY WILL BE INVITED TO ATTEND A PRIZE-PRESENTATION CEREMONY ON OCTOBER 21, MRS CHOR ADDED.
NOMINATIONS FOR THE AWARD WILL CLOSE ON AUGUST 15 AND ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 852 4809. ----------------------------------0--------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS * * * * * $ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,580
REVERSAL OF LAF +220
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,800
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -1,035
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,765
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.5 *+0.0* 8.7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMEN BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.52 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.51 3.94
1 MONTH 3.11 PCT 16 MONTHS 24 1 1 4.625 100.78 4.07
3 MONTHS 3.28 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.89 4.21
6 MONTHS 3.50 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.92 4.41
12 MONTHS 3.85 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 19,626 MN
CLOSED 8 JULY 1993 -----------------------------------0-------
Reived by pro
8» -1 3 JUL J991
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
FOREIGN SECRETARY SPEAKS TO MEDIA ............................... 1
HK COMES FIRST IN DIGITAL TELEPHONE NETWORK ..................... 4
TWO GOVT LOTS SOLD FOR S866 MILLION ............................. 5
FOUR TO CONTEST LEGCO SEAT ...................................... 6
STATEMENT ON TAXI POLICY ........................................ 6
FOREIGN CORPORATIONS BILL GAZETTED .............................. 7
CERTAIN WORLD TRADE CENTRE GROUP SHARES FROZEN .................. 8
YUEN LONG HIGHWAY FORMS VITAL PART OF NORTHWEST NT ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE ................................................. 9
AIRPORT IS A GOOD NEIGHBOUR .................................... 10
SHIPPING AND CARGO STATISTICS OF OCEAN-GOING VESSELS FOR 1992 11
IMPROVEMENT TO TUEN MUN ROAD ................................... 14
TENDERS INVITED FOR INFIRMARY SITE FORMATION WORK .............. 15
NEW PSC MEMBER APPOINTED ....................................... 16
WEST KOWLOON DRAINAGE WORKS .................................... 16
ROAD AND SEWER WORKS FOR CHEUNG CHAU PROPOSED .................. 17
AMENDMENTS TO DRAFT KWAI CHUNG OUTLINE ZONING PLAN ANNOUNCED 18
FILIPINOS CONVICTED OF USING FORGED PASSPORTS .................. 19
ONE MORE NOMINATION FOR RC BY-ELECTION ......................... 19
CAMPAIGN ON FOSTER CARE SERVICE STARTS ......................... 20
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPFRATIONS .. 20
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
FOREIGN SECRETARY SPEAKS TO MEDIA *****
THE FOLLOWING IS A TRANSCRIPT OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS, THE RT HON DOUGLAS HURD, SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER AN EXCO MEETING THIS EVENING (FRIDAY):
I AM GLAD TO BE HERE ON THE FIRST BIRTHDAY OF THE GOVERNOR’S GOVERNORSHIP AND WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE HIM ON THAT.
I AM ALSO GLAD TO BE HERE FOR OTHER REASONS. I HAVE BEEN IN PEKING TODAY AND YESTERDAY, NOT TO NEGOTIATE BUT TO TRY AND FOCUS ATTENTION ON WHAT SEEMS TO US ESSENTIAL IN THE NEGOTIATIONS. THERE ARE THREE SETS OF DISCUSSIONS GOING ON, AS YOU ALL KNOW. THERE ARE THE CONSTITUTIONAL DISCUSSIONS GOING ON IN PEKING, THERE IS THE WORK OF THE AIRPORT GROUP AND THERE IS THE WORK OF THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP. AND IN MY TALKS THIS MORNING, WITH MR QIAN QICHEN, WITH THE CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTER, I COVERED ALL THREE AND I HAVE JUST BEEN REPORTING TO EXCO ON ALL THREE.
THE MAIN ESSENTIALS AS REGARDS THE CONSTITUTIONAL TALKS ARE THESE: THAT THERE SHOULD BE OPEN AND FAIR ELECTION ARRANGEMENTS ACCEPTABLE TO PEOPLE HERE AND THAT WE NEED NEGOTIATIONS TO CONCENTRATE ON THREE THINGS: THE FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES, THE ELECTION COMMITTEE AND THE THROUGH TRAIN. THAT IS TO SAY, THE NEED FOR CLEAR OBJECTIVE CRITERIA SO THAT ANYBODY STANDING FOR ELECTION HERE IN 1995 KNOWS WHAT HE OR SHE HAS TO DO IN ORDER TO STAY ON THE THROUGH TRAIN, IN ORDER TO CONTINUE ON THE THROUGH TRAIN UNTIL 1999. I STRESSED THE NEED TO GET ON WITH THIS. I DID NOT MENTION ANY DEADLINES. I HAVEN’T MENTIONED THEM AND NOR HAS THE GOVERNOR, EITHER IN PRIVATE OR IN PUBLIC, FOR REASONS WHICH THE GOVERNOR EXPLAINED IN LONDON. BUT THE CLOCK IS TICKING ON. OBVIOUSLY A TIME COMES WHEN PRACTICAL ARRANGEMENTS HAVE TO BE MADE FOR THESE ELECTIONS. SO TIME IS NOT INFINITE AND THERE IS A NEED TO MAKE FURTHER PROGRESS. THAT WAS ACCEPTED BY THE CHINESE SIDE.
THESE TALKS HAVE BEEN VERY SLOW IN GETTING OFF THE GROUND SINCE APRIL 1ST WHEN THEY BEGAN BUT THE GROUNDWORK HAS NOW BEEN DONE, SOME CONTROVERSIAL MATTER ABOUT THE PAST HAS BEEN CLEARED OUT OF THE WAY AND BOTH SIDES ARE NOW TALKING ABOUT THE FUTURE - ALL THREE OF THE HEADINGS WHICH I HAVE MENTIONED.
ON THE AIRPORT, A SIMILAR STORY IN AS MUCH AS I SAID: DELAY IS EXPENSIVE, DELAY IS DAMAGING TO HONG KONG, THEREFORE DELAY IS DAMAGING TO CHINA. THERE IS STILL NO AGREEMENT ON THE FINANCING PROPOSALS THOUGH THE BRITISH SIDE ARE SHOWING THEMSELVES VERY FLEXIBLE, AND THERE ARE OTHER MATTERS WHICH ARE HELD UP.
I RAISED, IN PARTICULAR, THE CENTRAL WANCHAI RECLAMATION SCHEME AND THE CHINESE AT ONCE AGREED THAT THE FIRST PHASE OF THAT SHOULD GO AHEAD. SO THAT IS PROGRESS BUT OF COURSE THERE IS MUCH MORE WORK STILL TO BE DONE. WE AGREED THAT THAT WORK SHOULD BE ACCELERATED.
/SIMILARLY ON .......
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 2 -
SIMILARLY ON THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP, THERE IS A HUGE AGENDA, IT’S PILED UP. SOME OF IT IS DIFFICULT, LIKE DEFENCE LANDS; SOME OF IT LONGSTANDING, LIKE AIR SERVICES AGREEMENTS; SOME OF IT VERY TECHNICAL, LABORIOUS, NOT VERY CONTROVERSIAL, SO AS TO MAKE SURE THAT THERE IS NOT A VOID IN THE LAWS OF HONG KONG WHEN SOVEREIGNTY PASSES. THERE IS A NEED, AND I URGED IT AGAIN, TO SPEED UP THE WORK OF THE JLG AND WE DID AGREE DATES FOR FUTURE MEETINGS IN SEPTEMBER IN PEKING, AND IN DECEMBER AGAIN IN LONDON.
SO THAT IS, IN SUM, WHAT WE DISCUSSED. DESIGNED, AS I SAY, NOT TO NEGOTIATE BUT TO SPEED UP NEGOTIATIONS ON ALL THREE OF THE FRONTS WHICH I HAVE MENTIONED. THE ATMOSPHERE WAS GOOD, THE RESPONSE WAS POSITIVE, BUT OF COURSE AS IN ALL THESE THINGS THE PROOF OF WHETHER A VISIT IS WORTHWHILE OR NOT COMES LATER IN WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENS ON THE GROUND IN THE PRACTICAL WORLD; THE PROOF COMES LATER. WE ARE ALL ENGAGED IN A BIG EFFORT ON THESE FRONTS, A BIG EFFORT PREPARING FOR THE TRANSFER OF SOVEREIGNTY. BRITAIN HAS NO HIDDEN AGENDA ON THIS. I MADE THIS CLEAR TO THE CHINESE. WE HAVE NO THOUGHTS OR ASPIRATIONS OR WISHES TO INTERFERE IN HOW CHINA GOVERNS ITSELF, THAT IS NOT OUR BUSINESS. WE ARE CONCERNED THAT THE AGREEMENTS ABOUT HONG KONG SHOULD BE FULLY CARRIED THROUGH, THAT THE PHRASE "TWO SYSTEMS IN ONE COUNTRY", REPEATED TO ME BOTH BY MR QIAN QICHEN AND BY PRESIDENT JIANG ZEMIN TODAY, THAT THAT CHINESE PHRASE SHOULD BE CONVERTED INTO REALITY. I HOPE - I HOPE THAT EVENTS WILL PROVE THAT THE VISIT I HAVE MADE AT THE GOVERNOR’S SUGGESTION TO PEKING WILL BE A WORTHWHILE MILESTONE ON THAT LONG ROAD. THANK YOU.
QUESTION: SIR, YOU MENTIONED CLEARING UP ... WERE THOSE THE SEVEN LETTERS, THE EXCHANGES ...?
MR HURD: THE TALKS IN PEKING BEGAN, AS YOU KNOW, WITH THOSE KIND OF BACKWARD LOOKING ARGUMENTS BUT THERE WAS NO MENTION OF ANY OF THAT TODAY ON EITHER SIDE. THERE WAS NO MENTION OF THE PAST, THE ACCENT WAS ON THE FUTURE.
QUESTION: MR HURD, YOU’VE SAID THAT THE TWO SIDES HAVE REACHED...
ON THE TALKS BUT ACTUALLY WHAT IS THE MAIN OBSTACLE IN THE PAST SEVEN ROUNDS OF TALKS?
MR HURD: I’M SORRY, WHAT? THE MAIN OBSTACLE ON THE THROUGH
TRAIN?
MR HURD: ON THE TALKS?
QUESTION: YES.
MR HURD: WELL, THERE ARE THESE THREE MAIN ITEMS ON WHICH
SUBSTANTIAL DISCUSSIONS HAVE BEGUN BUT NOT YET CONCLUDED: THE NATURE OF THE FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES, THE NATURE OF THE ELECTION COMMITTEE AND THE CRITERIA FOR THE THROUGH TRAIN.
QUESTION: ON THE THROUGH TRAIN QUESTION: HOW ARE YOU GOING TO GET ROUND THIS PROBLEM THAT IN THE BASIC LAW ACTUALLY STIPULATES THAT THERE IS JUST THE POSSIBILITY THAT THE PREPARATORY COMMITTEE MIGHT LET THESE LEGISLATORS WHO HAVE SWORN AN OATH TO CARRY ON AFTER 1997? HOW ARE YOU GOING TO GET ROUND THAT PROBLEM?
/MR HURD: ........
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 3 -
MR HURD: WELL, WE NEED CLEAR AND OBJECTIVE CRITERIA. THERE IS NOTHING IN THE BASIC LAW TO PREVENT THAT, THAT IS A MATTER FOR DISCUSSION AND NEGOTIATION AND THAT IS WHY I SET OUT VERY CLEARLY TODAY WHAT WE THINK IS ESSENTIAL FOR THE THROUGH TRAIN. THE CHINESE SIDE ACCEPTS THE NEED FOR SMOOTH TRANSITION. AND THE SMOOTH TRANSITION INCLUDES ARRANGEMENTS OF THIS KIND. OBVIOUSLY THEY HAVE NOT COME FORWARD WITH SPECIFIC IDEAS - 1 HOPE THEY WILL DO SO - BUT THEY ARE CERTAINLY INTERESTED IN AND SEE THE POINT OF, THE NEED FOR, A SMOOTH TRANSITION.
QUESTION: MR HURD, ... MORE IMPORTANT THAT BOTH SIDES COME TO REALISE THAT ... PUTTING THE IDEA OF ’’ONE COUNTRY TWO SYSTEMS” INTO PRACTICE..... VERY DIFFICULT ...
MR HURD: WELL, "TWO SYSTEMS IN ONE COUNTRY” IS DIFFICULT, YOU ARE PERFECTLY RIGHT, AND THE TWO SYSTEMS HAVE SUCH DIFFERENT ROOTS AND ORIGINS. YOU ARE PERFECTLY CORRECT. THAT IS WHY I SAID IT IS A LONG ROAD, AND PROVING FROM TIME TO TIME A ROUGH ROAD. BUT IT IS A NECESSARY ROAD - IT’S A NECESSARY ROAD - IT IS NECESSARY FROM THE CHINESE POINT OF VIEW AND FROM OUR POINT OF VIEW BUT ABOVE ALL, FROM THE POINT OF VIEW OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG. SO IT IS A ROAD WE HAVE TO TREAD. IT HAS THESE THREE PIECES OF WORK, THESE THREE WAYS IN WHICH THE ROAD IS BEING FOLLOWED, AND WE MUST, AND WE CERTAINLY INTEND - FROM THE BRITISH SIDE AND THE GOVERNOR’S SIDE - WE CERTAINLY INTEND TO DO WHAT WE CAN TO FOLLOW THROUGH BECAUSE IT IS DIFFICULT BUT IT IS NECESSARY. THAT IS THE PHRASE I ACTUALLY USED WITH QIAN QICHEN: ALL THIS IS DIFFICULT BUT IT IS NECESSARY.
QUESTION: ... BOSNIA, YOU’VE MADE SOME VERY DEPRESSING REMARKS...?
MR HURD: THE ROLE IS WHAT IT HAS BEEN. THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY SHOWS NO INCLINATION AND HAS NO POWER TO IMPOSE A SOLUTION ON BOSNIA. WHAT IT CAN DO IS OFFER NEGOTIATIONS, OFFER IDEAS FOR A NEGOTIATED SETTLEMENT, THAT IS DAVID OWEN ........ IT CAN PRESS THOSE FIGHTING, THROUGH SANCTIONS AND THROUGH SAYING, "YOU ARE NOT GOING TO ACHIEVE WHAT YOU WANT BY FIGHTING”. AND IT CAN SAVE LIVES BY THE HUMANITARIAN EFFORT AND THAT IS WHY WE HAVE 2,500 TROOPS IN THE MIDDLE OF BOSNIA.
QUESTION: MR LU PING INDICATED TODAY THAT IT’S POSSIBLE TO SET UP OBJECTIVE CRITERIA FOR THE THROUGH TRAIN BY THE STANDING COMMITTEE OF THE NPC BEFORE 1995. DO YOU THINK IT IS A SIGN OF CHANGE FROM THE CHINESE SIDE?
MR HURD: I LEARNED A LONG TIME AGO, BUT PARTICULARLY IN HONG KONG, NEVER TO COMMENT ON REMARKS ATTRIBUTED TO PEOPLE WHICH I HAVE NOT SEEN. SO I’M SORRY, BUT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ASK ANOTHER QUESTION? BECAUSE I’VE RULED OUT ONE QUESTION, I THINK IT IS ONLY FAIR.
GOVERNOR: ABSOLUTELY! THAT IS FAIR AND OPEN AND ACCEPTABLE TO THE MEDIA OF HONG KONG.
QUESTION: DID THIS MORNING’S MEETING NARROW DOWN THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE TWO SIDES ON THE ...... ON THE ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENTS? IF IT HAS NOT NARROWED DOWN THE DIFFERENCES, HOW TO SPEED UP THE NEGOTIATIONS?
/MR HURD: ........
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
MR HURD: WELL, I THINK SOMETIMES IS THAT NEGOTIATIONS HAVE COVERED A VERY WIDE FRONT AND THERE IS A LOT OF, OCCASIONALLY, DIFFERENT INTERPRETATIONS OF THEM. IT IS IMPORTANT TO NARROW THAT DOWN AND TO FOCUS IT, AND THAT IS WHAT I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO DO TODAY ON THOSE THREE MATTERS. THEY HAVE REACHED THE STAGE WHERE SUBSTANTIAL IDEAS ARE NOW COMING FORWARD AND I HOPE THIS PROCESS OF FOCUSING WHICH BOTH MR QIAN QICHEN AND I CARRIED THROUGH TODAY, WILL HELP TO MAKE PROGRESS POSSIBLE, TO FACILITATE PROGRESS ON ALL THOSE THREE.
QUESTION: WHAT IS THE POINT IN HAVING OBJECTIVE CRITERIA FOR THE THROUGH TRAIN IF THEY ARE NOT SUBJECT TO JUDICIAL REVIEW .........?
MR HURD: WELL, LET US SEE WHAT THE CHINESE PRODUCE ON THAT FRONT. WE WANTED TO SET OUT WHAT WE THOUGHT WAS ESSENTIAL, NEITHER MORE NOR LESS. WE’RE NOT TALKING ABOUT INDIVIDUALS, WE’RE TALKING ABOUT CLEAR OBJECTIVE CRITERIA SO THAT INDIVIDUALS CAN MAKE THEIR PLANS. OF COURSE THESE CRITERIA HAVE TO BE RELIABLE, THEY HAVE TO BE BACKABLE, THEY HAVE TO BE SUSTAINABLE, THEY HAVE TO BE REAL REASONS BUT THAT IS, I THINK, CLEAR.
GOVERNOR: THANK YOU VERY MUCH INDEED.
-----0------
HK COMES FIRST IN DIGITAL TELEPHONE NETWORK
******
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, TODAY (FRIDAY) SAID HONG KONG SHOULD BE PROUD TO BE THE FIRST MAJOR CITY IN THE WORLD TO HAVE A COMPLETELY DIGITAL TELEPHONE NETWORK.
THE REMARK WAS MADE AT THE CEREMONY MARKING THE DIGITALISATION OF THE HONG KONG TELEPHONE NETWORK.
IT WILL MEAN A MORE "INTELLIGENT" NETWORK, ONE THAT IS ABLE TO ACCOMMODATE MORE SUBSCRIBERS AND MORE CALLS, ONE THAT OFFERS ACCESS TO A WIDE RANGE OF FLEXIBLE SERVICES.
"IF HONG KONG IS TO MAINTAIN ITS EXCELLENCE AS A REGIONAL CENTRE, WE MUST ENSURE THAT OUR ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE IS NOT JUST GOOD, BUT ON A PAR WITH THE VERY BEST."
"THIS REQUIRES A CONTINUING COMMITMENT TO INVESTMENT IN STATE-OF-THE-ART COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS, BE THEY BY AIR, LAND, SEA OR BY DIGITAL NETWORKS," HE SAID.
THIS IS WHY THE GOVERNMENT IS BUILDING A NEW AIRPORT, EXPANDING THE PORT AND INVESTING IN NEW ROAD AND RAILWAY SYSTEMS, THE GOVERNOR SAID.
/IN ADDITION .......
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 5 -
IN ADDITION TO DIGITALISATION OF THE TELEPHONE NETWORK, HONG KONG ALSO BOASTS THE HIGHEST RATE OF MOBILE PHONE USE IN THE WORLD OUTSIDE SCANDINAVIA.
IT ALSO HAS THE GREATEST NUMBER OF PAGING SUBSCRIBERS PER HEAD OF POPULATION, THE HIGHEST RATE OF INTERNATIONAL TELECOMS USE, AND MORE FAX MACHINES PER HEAD OF POPULATION THAN ANYWHERE ELSE APART FROM JAPAN.
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TWO GOVT LOTS SOLD FOR $866 MILLION *****
TWO PIECES OF GOVERNMENT LOTS WERE SOLD FOR A TOTAL OF $866 MILLION AT A PUBLIC AUCTION BY THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT THIS (FRIDAY) AFTERNOON.
THE FIRST LOT IS LOCATED AT TOWN PARK ROAD SOUTH, YUEN LONG, NEW TERRITORIES. IT WAS SOLD TO MOUNT CITY LIMITED AT $600 MILLION, BIDDING OPENED AT $330 MILLION.
THE LOT, WITH AN AREA OF ABOUT 10,320 SQUARE METRES, IS INTENDED FOR PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES.
ACCORDING TO THE BUILDING COVENANT, THE DEVELOPER HAS TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR OF NOT LESS THAN 18,576 SQUARE METRES ON OR BEFORE SEPTEMBER 30, 1997.
THE SECOND LOT IS LOCATED IN AREA 10B, TUEN MUN, NEW TERRITORIES. IT WAS BOUGHT BY FAR GAIN LIMITED AT $266 MILLION. BIDDING OPENED AT $160 MILLION.
THE LOT HAS AN AREA OF ABOUT 2,783 SQUARE METRES AND IS INTENDED FOR NON-INDUSTRIAL (EXCLUDING GODOWN) PURPOSES.
THE DEVELOPERS HAS TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 11,000 SQUARE METRES ON OR BEFORE SEPTEMBER 30, 1996.
THE AUCTION WAS CONDUCTED BY GOVERNMENT LAND AGENT, MR TIMOTHY MILLS, IN THE CITY HALL THEATRE.
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/6 ........
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
6 -
FOUR TO CONTEST LEGCO SEAT
* » * * *
A TOTAL OF FOUR CANDIDATES WILL STAND FOR THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN RESPECT OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCY SCHEDULED FOR JULY 28.
TWO OF THEM, MR LAU KONG-WAH AND MR YEUNG FUK-KWONG, WERE NOMINATED TODAY (FRIDAY) WHEN THE NOMINATION PERIOD ENDED.
PERSONAL DETAILS OF THE FOUR CANDIDATES ARE:
NAME AGE OCCUPATION TELEPHONE i
MR TSO SHIU-WAI 41 COMPANY DIRECTOR 459 7667
MR CHOW YICK-HAY 35 UNIVERSITY STAFF 785 7979
MR LAU KONG-WAH 36 LECTURER 694 8333
MR YEUNG FUK-KWONG 40 SOLICITOR 411 2228
THE BY-ELECTION WILL BE HELD TO FILL THE VACANCY LEFT BY MR
GILBERT LEUNG KAM-HO.
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STATEMENT ON TAXI POLICY
******
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (FRIDAY) DENIED A REPORT IN A CHINESE NEWSPAPER THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD MADE A DECISION ON THE ISSUE OF A NEW TYPE OF TAXI LICENCE OF NON-TRANSFERRABLE NATURE.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE PRESENT POSITION WAS THAT A WORKING GROUP OF THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) WAS STILL CONSIDERING A LARGE NUMBER OF OPTIONS IN THE REVIEW OF THE TAXI POLICY IN THE LIGHT OF PUBLIC VIEWS COLLECTED DURING THE CONSULTATION EXERCISE.
A TOTAL OF 177 WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS AND 313 TELEPHONE CALLS WERE RECEIVED DURING THE EXERCISE.
"IT IS STILL SOME WAY OFF BEFORE THE ADMINISTRATION WILL TAKE A VIEW ON WHETHER THE PRESENT TAXI POLICY INCLUDING THE TAXI LICENSING SYSTEM SHOULD BE CHANGED."
"THE WAY AHEAD IS THAT THE WORKING GROUP, UNDER ITS TERMS OF REFERENCE, WILL MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE FUTURE DIRECTION OF THE TAXI POLICY TO THE TAC, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT VIEWS COLLECTED IN THE CONSULTATION."
/"THE
GOVERNMENT
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
"THE GOVERNMENT WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO TAKE A VIEW ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS UNTIL THEY ARE THOROUGHLY DELIBERATED AT THE FULL TAC. "
THE SPOKESMAN EMPHASISED THAT IT WAS TOTALLY UNFOUNDED AT THIS STAGE TO SUGGEST EITHER THE TAC OR THE ADMINISTRATION HAD FORMULATED A VIEW IN THE CURRENT REVIEW OF THE TAXI POLICY.
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FOREIGN CORPORATIONS BILL GAZETTED
*****
THE FOREIGN CORPORATIONS BILL WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID CONCERN HAD BEEN EXPRESSED BY THE LEGAL PROFESSION IN HONG KONG OVER THE UNCERTAINTY WITH THE STATUS OF CORPORATIONS INCORPORATED IN TERRITORIES NOT RECOGNISED BY THE UK.
"SIMILAR PROBLEMS WERE ENCOUNTERED IN THE UK WHICH RESULTED IN THE ENACTMENT IN 1991 OF THE FOREIGN CORPORATIONS ACT TO ENABLE THE LEGAL CAPACITY OF FOREIGN CORPORATIONS INCORPORATED UNDER THE LAWS OF UNRECOGNISED STATES TO BE ACCEPTED IN THE UK," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE EFFECT OF THE ACT IS TO PUT IT BEYOND DOUBT THAT OBLIGATIONS FLOWING FROM CONTRACTS ENTERED INTO BY THOSE CORPORATIONS ARE ENFORCEABLE,” HE SAID.
"THE BILL IS MODELLED ON THE UK ACT AND IS STRICTLY A SOLUTION TO A COMMERCIAL PROBLEM. IT HAS NO BEARING ON RECOGNITION OF STATES," HE SAID.
THE BILL IS SCHEDULED FOR INTRODUCTION INTO LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON JULY 21.
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/8 ........
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 8 -
CERTAIN WORLD TRADE CENTRE GROUP SHARES FROZEN
******
IN RESPONSE TO A RECOMMENDATION MADE BY THE INSPECTOR APPOINTED TO INVESTIGATE CERTAIN SHAREHOLDING OF THE WORLD TRADE CENTRE GROUP LIMITED (WTCG), THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY MADE AN ORDER YESTERDAY (JULY 8) WHICH RESTRICTS THE TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP OF SOME OF THE SHARES OF THE COMPANY, THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
MR JOHN ROBERT LEES WAS APPOINTED AS INSPECTOR BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY ON JUNE 2 THIS YEAR UNDER SECTION 33 OF THE SECURITIES (DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS) ORDINANCE TO INVESTIGATE AND REPORT ON THE MEMBERSHIP OF WTCG.
THE INSPECTOR COMPLETED HIS REPORT ON JULY 1 THIS YEAR.
IN THE COURSE OF HIS INVESTIGATION, THE INSPECTOR HAS APPROACHED THREE COMPANIES INVOLVED IN A PLACEMENT ISSUE IN JULY 1990 AND RELATED PERSONS AS WELL AS THE NOMINEE COMPANIES CONCERNED TO ASCERTAIN THE BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF SOME 179 MILLION SHARES OF WTCG.
LETTERS WERE SENT TO THE PARTIES INVOLVED SEEKING INFORMATION REGARDING THEIR PAST AND PRESENT INTERESTS IN WTCG SHARES.
SOME OF THE PERSONS CONNECTED WITH TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING THE SHARES IN QUESTION HAVE BEEN INTERVIEWED.
WHILE SOME RESPONDENTS REFUSED TO PROVIDE THE RELEVANT INFORMATION, OTHERS FAILED TO PRESENT THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTATION TO ESTABLISH THEIR INTERESTS IN THE SHARES.
’’THE INSPECTOR THEREFORE CONCLUDED THAT THERE IS DIFFICULTIES IN FINDING OUT THE RELEVANT FACTS ABOUT THESE SHARES. AS A RESULT, THE INSPECTOR RECOMMENDED THAT THOSE SHARES BE SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS UNDER PART V OF THE SECURITIES (DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS) ORDINANCE,” MR CARTLAND SAID.
PART V RESTRICTIONS ARE MAINLY TO LIMIT THE TRANSFERRABILITY OF SHARES. THIS PROVISION CAN BE INVOKED IF IT APPEARS TO THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY THAT THERE ARE DIFFICULTIES IN FINDING OUT THE RELEVANT FACTS ABOUT ANY SHARES, WHICH IS THE CASE ON THIS OCCASION, HE SAID.
’’THE ORDINANCE PROVIDES THAT AN ORDER APPLYING PART V RESTRICTIONS MAY BE DISAPPLIED BY A SUBSEQUENT ORDER.
’’SHOULD THE RELEVANT FACTS ABOUT PARTICULAR SHAREHOLDINGS BE DISCLOSED AND REVEAL THAT NO UNFAIR ADVANTAGE HAD ACCRUED TO ANY PERSON AS A RESULT OF THE EARLIER FAILURE TO MAKE A DISCLOSURE, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY WOULD CONSIDER TO DISAPPLY THE RESTRICTIONS,” MR CARTLAND SAID.
THE GOVERNMENT HAS ISSUED LETTERS TO THE PARTIES CONCERNED AS WELL AS THE WTCG AND THE STOCK EXCHANGE OF HONG KONG LTD TO INFORM THEM OF THE IMPOSITION OF RESTRICTIONS ON THE SHARES IN QUESTION AND A NOTICE HAS BEEN PLACED IN TOMORROW’S (SATURDAY) NEWSPAPERS.
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/9......
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 9 -
YUEN LONG HIGHWAY FORMS VITAL
PART OF NORTHWEST NT ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE
*****
THE SUBSTANTIAL COMPLETION OF THE YUEN LONG HIGHWAY BEWTEEN YUEN LONG AND THE NORTHERN PART OF TUEN MUN FORMS A VITAL PART OF THE ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDED TO SUPPORT THE CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT OF THE NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR YEUNG KAI-YIN, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE SIX-KILOMETRE HIGHWAY TO THE EAST OF CASTLE PEAK ROAD, MR YEUNG SAID THE HIGH-CAPACITY ROUTE OF EXPRESSWAY STANDARD LINKED THE THREE NEW TOWNS OF YUEN LONG, TIN SHUI WAI AND TUEN MUN.
’’THE NEW ROAD WILL REDUCE THE AVERAGE JOURNEY TIME BETWEEN YUEN LONG AND TUEN MUN FROM OVER 20 MINUTES TO ABOUT SEVEN MINUTES, AND WILL RELIEVE THE LONG-STANDING CONGESTION PROBLEM IN THE PARALLEL SECTION OF CASTLE PEAK ROAD,” HE SAID.
JOINTLY OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY WAS LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MR ZACHARY WONG. THE DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS, MR KWEI SEE-KAN, WAS ALSO PRESENT.
THE $850 MILLION PROJECT HAS BEEN DESIGNED AND SUPERVISED BY HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT AND IS THE LARGEST ROAD PROJECT EVER UNDERTAKEN BY THE IN-HOUSE STAFF OF THE DEPARTMENT.
THE GOOD PROGRESS ACHIEVED BY THE CONTRACTORS HAS ENABLED THE PROJECT TO BE COMPLETED SOME TWO MONTHS AHEAD OF SCHEDULE.
THE MAIN WORKS HAVE TAKEN THREE YEARS TO COMPLETE AND HAVE INVOLVED THE CONSTRUCTION OF A DUAL TWO-LANE CARRIAGEWAY, THREE INTERCHANGES, 18 BRIDGES AND NINE PEDESTRIAN SUBWAYS.
MR YEUNG POINTED OUT THAT SPECIAL ATTENTION WAS GIVEN TO THE IMPROVEMENT OF DRAINAGE FACILITIES AND MEETING ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS.
WORK ON THE YUEN LONG SOUTHERN BYPASS IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED BY OCTOBER 1994.
THE YUEN LONG SOUTHERN BYPASS WILL EXTEND THE YUEN LONG HIGHWAY NORTHWARDS TO CONNECT WITH CASTLE PEAK ROAD NEAR THE POK 01 HOSPITAL, THUS ALLOWING THROUGH TRAFFIC TO BYPASS THE YUEN LONG TOWN CENTRE, HE SAID.
LOOKING AHEAD, MR YEUNG SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD FURTHER PLANS TO IMPROVE ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES, BY PROVIDING CLIMBING LANES IN THE TUEN MUN HIGHWAY AND ARRANGING CONSTRUCTION OF THE COUNTRY PARK SECTION OF ROUTE 3 FROM TSING YI TO YUEN LONG.
’’WITH THE NEW RAIL LINK WHICH IS ALSO BEING CONSIDERED TO CONNECT WITH THE URBAN AREA, THIS WILL SERVE THE TRANSPORT NEEDS OF THE NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES WELL INTO THE NEXT CENTURY," HE ADDED.
/THE EXPRESSWAY
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 10 -
THE EXPRESSWAY, WITH A DESIGN SPEED OF 100 KILOMETRE AN HOUR, IS PROVIDED WITH TRAFFIC AIDS DESIGNED TO THE LATEST STANDARDS TO ENSURE ROAD SAFETY.
REFLECTIVE ROAD STUDS HAVE BEEN USED FOR IMPROVED VISIBILITY AT NIGHT AND IN FOUL WEATHER. TRAFFIC SIGN FACES ARE MADE OF REFLECTIVE MATERIALS FOR IMPROVED VISIBILITY.
THE DRAINAGE SYSTEM IN THE FORM OF BOX CULVERTS ACROSS THE ROAD AND CHANNELS ALONG THE ROAD SIDES WILL HELP REDUCE FLOODING RISK.
TO IMRPOVE SKID RESISTANCE, A 30 MILLIMETRE THICK POROUS BITUMINOUS FRICTION COURSE HAS BEEN PROVIDED.
EMERGENCY TELEPHONES HAVE BEEN INSTALLED AT REGULAR INTERVALS TO FACILITATE FAST RESPONSE TO VEHICLE BREAKDOWNS AND TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS.
POLICE OBSERVATION PLATFORMS ARE PROVIDED AT STRATEGIC LOCATIONS FOR USE BY THE TRAFFIC POLICE.
THE YUEN LONG HIGHWAY WILL BE OPENED TO TRAFFIC AT 10 AM TOMORROW (SATURDAY).
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AIRPORT IS A GOOD NEIGHBOUR
*****
THE CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN APPLYING A SERIES OF MEASURES UNDER THE AIRCRAFT NOISE ORDINANCE TO MINIMISE NOISE DISTURBANCE AT NIGHT TO THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS SURROUNDING THE AIRPORT, THE DIRECTOR OF CIVIL AVIATION, MR PETER LOK KUNG-NAM, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
MR LOK TOLD A GROUP OF VISITING KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS TO THE AIRPORT THAT THE NOISE ABATEMENT MEASURES INCLUDE THE CONTROL OF HIGH POWER ENGINE RUN BY AIRCRAFT AT CERTAIN PARTS OF THE APRON AREA AND THE TOTAL BAN ON ENGINE RUN FROM 7 PM TO 7 AM AT CERTAIN AIRCRAFT PARKING BAYS.
DURING THE OVERNIGHT PERIOD, AIRCRAFT REQUIRING TO CONDUCT IDLE ENGINE RUN WOULD BE REPOSITIONED AWAY FROM RESIDENTIAL AREAS AS FAR AS POSSIBLE.
NEARBY RESIDENTS ARE ALSO CONCERNED WITH THE OPERATION OF AUXILIARY POWER UNITS (APU).
THE DEPARTMENT HAS THEREFORE IMPOSED LIMITATIONS ON SUCH OPERATIONS BETWEEN MIDNIGHT AND 6 AM WITHIN THE APU RESTRICTED AREA.
MR LOK EXPLAINED THAT THE DEPARTMENT HAD BEEN ENDEAVOURING TO BE A GOOD NEIGHBOUR.
/HE SAID .......
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
11
HE SAID THE USE OF PARKING BAYS ON THE EAST APRON EXTENSION FOR TURNING ROUND AIRCRAFT DURING THE DAY AND BETWEEN 11 PM AND 6 AM WOULD BE MINIMISED. IT IS INTENDED THAT THESE BAYS WOULD MAINLY BE USED FOR INACTIVE AIRCRAFT PARKING.
LED BY THE BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR WONG HANG-FAI, THE GROUP OF 30 DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS TOURED THE AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL CENTRE AND TOWER AS WELL AS THE AIR PASSENGER TERMINAL BUILDING TO UNDERSTAND THE CAPACITY OF THE AIRPORT IN HANDLING BOTH PASSENGER AND AIR CARGO TRAFFIC.
AT THE SAME TIME, THEY WERE BRIEFED ON THE WORK OF THE SAFETY REGULATIONS DIVISION WHICH DEALT WITH FLIGHT OPERATION STANDARDS AND AIRWORTHINESS OF AIRCRAFT AND THE TECHNICAL AND PLANNING DIVISION WHICH HANDLED EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION AND THE CALIBRATION OF INSTRUMENT GUIDING SYSTEMS.
THEY WERE ALSO TOLD THAT LANDING RIGHTS WERE HANDLED BY THE AIR SERVICES DIVISION AND THE WORK OF THE DEPARTMENT HAD BEEN STEADILY INCREASING AS THE FLEET OF REGISTERED AIRCRAFT OWNED BY HONG KONG AIRLINES HAD GROWN TO 35 BOEING 747S, 19 TRISTARS AND FIVE AIRBUS 320S.
THE MEMBERS SUPPORTED THE IDEA FOR FURTHER EXPANDING AIRPORT FACILITIES TO INCREASE TRAFFIC FLOW, TO MAINTAIN HONG KONG’S VITAL ECONOMIC POSITION.
THEY WERE ALSO TAKEN AROUND THE AIRPORT FIRE STATION BY THE SENIOR DIVISIONAL OFFICER (AIRPORT), MR CHUNG KUN-YEUNG AND WERE BRIEFED ON THE OPERATION OF THE AIRPORT FIRE CONTINGENT WHICH RANGED FROM ATTENDING TO AIRCRAFT GROUND INCIDENTS AND FUEL SPILLAGES ON THE PARKING APRON TO HANDLING AMBULANCE CALLS.
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SHIPPING AND CARGO STATISTICS OF OCEAN-GOING VESSELS FOR 1992 ******
IN 1992, 26,052 SHIPS WITH A TOTAL CAPACITY OF 134.7 MILLION NET REGISTERED TONS (NRT) ARRIVED HONG KONG, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 4,874 (OR 23%) IN NUMBER AND OF 15.6 MILLION NRT (OR 13%) IN CAPACITY OVER 1991.
THIS INFORMATION IS CONTAINED IN THE "HONG KONG SHIPPING STATISTICS REPORT, 1992” PUBLISHED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
IN 1992, THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CARGO DISCHARGED IN HONG KONG FROM INCOMING SHIPS WAS 58.4 MILLION TONNES, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 10% OVER 1991.
ANALYSING INCOMING SHIPS BY SHIP TYPE, MAJOR INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE NUMBER OF CONTAINER VESSELS (+1,599), SEMI-CONTAINER VESSELS (+993) AND OIL TANKERS (+546); WHILE A MAJOR DECREASE WAS RECORDED IN THE NUMBER OF LOG/TIMBER CARRIER (-73).
/ANALYSING INCOMING .......
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 12 -
ANALYSING INCOMING SHIPS BY FLAG, MAJOR INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE NUMBER OF SHIPS REGISTERED IN CHINA (+1,659), PANAMA (+1,129), LIBERIA (+321) AND TAIWAN (+202); WHILE A MAJOR DECREASE WAS RECORDED IN THE NUMBER OF SHIPS REGISTERED IN GERMANY (-77).
THE NUMBER OF INCOMING SHIPS WITH A CAPACITY OF LESS THAN 10,000 DEADWEIGHT TONS INCREASED BY 3,485 WHILST THE NUMBER OF THOSE WITH A LARGER CAPACITY INCREASED BY 1,389.
IN 1992, THERE WERE 25,939 OUTGOING SHIPS WITH A TOTAL CAPACITY OF 134.5 MILLION NRT, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 4,722 (OR 22%) IN NUMBER AND OF 15.2 MILLION NRT (OR 13%) IN CAPACITY OVER 1991.
THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CARGO LOADED ONTO OUTGOING SHIPS WAS 25.8 MILLION TONNES, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 10%.
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 72% OF THE OUTGOING SHIPS STAYED IN HONG KONG FOR LESS THAN 2 DAYS.
OF THE CARGO DISCHARGED FROM INCOMING SHIPS, 86% IN TERMS OF TONNAGE WERE SEABORNE IMPORTS AND 14% WERE SEABORNE TRANSHIPMENT CARGO.
OF THE CARGO LOADED ONTO OUTGOING SHIPS, 66% WERE SEABORNE EXPORTS (INCLUDING DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS) AND 34% WERE SEABORNE TRANSHIPMENT CARGO.
THE MAJOR COUNTRIES OF LOADING FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS WERE SINGAPORE (WHICH ACCOUNTED FOR 16% IN TONNAGE TERMS), JAPAN (15%), TAIWAN (10%), CHINA (9%), AUSTRALIA (8%), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (7%), THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA (7%) AND THE USA (7%); WHILE THE MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DISCHARGE FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS WERE THE USA (WHICH ACCOUNTED FOR 22% IN TONNAGE TERMS), CHINA (19%), TAIWAN (12%), JAPAN (5%), THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY (4%), SINGAPORE (4%), THE NETHERLANDS (3%) AND THE UNITED KINGDOM (3%).
SEABORNE TRANSHIPMENT CARGO WAS MAINLY LOADED IN CHINA (31%), TAIWAN (13%) AND THE USA (13%), AND WAS MAINLY DISCHARGED IN CHINA (20%) AND THE USA (15%).
COMPARING 1992 WITH 1991, MAJOR INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE NOTED FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+50%), INDONESIA (+50%), THE NETHERLANDS (+44%), THE PHILIPPINES (+36%), THE UNITED KINGDOM (+18%) AND SINGAPORE (+16%); WHILE A MAJOR DECREASE IN TONNAGE WAS NOTED FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM MALAYSIA (-17%).
AS A WHOLE, THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF SEABORNE IMPORTS ROSE BY 11%.
AMONG THE PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES IMPORTED BY SEA, MAJOR INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE RECORDED FOR MACHINERY (+39%), OTHER CHEMICALS AND RELATED PRODUCTS (+31%), ARTIFICIAL RESINS AND PLASTIC MATERIALS (+22%), PETROLEUM, PETROLEUM PRODUCTS AND RELATED MATERIALS (+22%), PAPER, PAPERBOARD AND ARTICLES THEREOF (+14%) AND COAL, COKE AND BRIQUETTES (+8%).
/COMPARING 1992 .......
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 13 -
COMPARING 1992 WITH 1991, THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF SEABORNE EXPORTS (DOMESTIC EXPORTS PLUS RE-EXPORTS) INCREASED BY 13%.
MAJOR INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE RECORDED FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS TO THE NETHERLANDS (+36%), CHINA (+29%), VIETNAM (+28%), THE USA (+24%), MACAU (+18%) AND THE UNITED KINGDOM (+14%); WHILE MAJOR DECREASES WERE RECORDED FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS TO THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (-26%) AND INDONESIA (-14%).
AMONG THE PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES EXPORTED BY SEA, MAJOR INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE NOTED FOR FOOTWEAR (+30%), TOYS (+27%), PETROLEUM, PETROLEUM PRODUCTS AND RELATED MATERIALS (+23%), MACHINERY (+19%), OTHER MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (+19%) AND ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES (+17%).
OF THE CARGO DISCHARGED FROM INCOMING SHIPS, INCLUDING SEABORNE IMPORTS AND SEABORNE INWARD TRANSHIPMENT, 44% IN TERMS OF TONNAGE WERE CONTAINERIZED CARGO.
OF THOSE LOADED ONTO OUTGOING SHIPS, INCLUDING SEABORNE EXPORTS AND SEABORNE OUTWARD TRANSHIPMENT, 81% WERE CONTAINERISED CARGO.
THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CONTAINERIZED SEABORNE IMPORTS IN 1992 ROSE BY 18% OVER 1991.
IN TERMS OF TONNAGE, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR 36% OF SEABORNE IMPORTS.
IN PARTICULAR, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR A LARGE PROPORTION OF SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM ITALY (99%), THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY (90%), TAIWAN (83%), THE UNITED KINGDOM (82%), THE NETHERLANDS (81%) AND THE USA (80%).
AMONG THE PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES IMPORTED BY SEA, CONTAINERIZED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR, IN TONNAGE TERMS, 99% OF SEABORNE IMPORTS OF ARTIFICIAL RESINS AND PLASTIC MATERIALS, 96% OF OTHER MANUFACTURED ARTICLES AND PAPER, PAPERBOARD AND ARTICLES THEREOF, AND 94% OF TEXTILE FIBRES AND THEIR WASTES.
THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CONTAINERIZED SEABORNE EXPORTS IN 1992 ROSE BY 15% OVER 1991 .
FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR 73% IN TERMS OF TONNAGE. IN PARTICULAR, CONTAINERIZED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR ALL SEABORNE EXPORTS TO AUSTRALIA, CANADA AND ITALY; AND ALMOST ALL TO THE UNITED KINGDOM, SPAIN AND THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY.
SEABORNE EXPORTS OF SOME PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES WERE ALL OR NEARLY ALL CONTAINERISED.
THESE INCLUDED TOYS; FOOTWEAR; ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES; TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR CONTAINERS; PLASTIC MANUFACTURES AND OTHER MANUFACTURED ARTICLES.
SHIPPING STATISTICS OF OCEAN-GOING VESSELS ARE COMPILED PRIMARILY FROM GENERAL DECLARATIONS SUBMITTED TO THE PORT FORMALITIES OFFICE OF THE MARINE DEPARTMENT BY SHIP MASTERS OR AUTHORIZED SHIPPING AGENTS AND COVER ALL OCEAN-GOING VESSELS ENTERING AND LEAVING HONG KONG, EXCLUDING YACHTS AND PLEASURE CRAFT.
/CARGO STATISTICS .......
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 14
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 1992 ARE CONTAINED IN THE "HONG KONG SHIPPING STATISTICS REPORT, 1992".
THIS REPORT IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL; AND THE PUBLICATIONS SALES COUNTER OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON 19TH FLOOR, WAN CHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI AT $65 A COPY.
ENQUIRIES ON STATISTICS CONTAINED IN THE REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE SHIPPING AND CARGO STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 582 4887.
IMPROVEMENT TO TUEN MUN ROAD
*****
THE GOVERNMENT IS PROPOSING TO IMPROVE TUEN MUN ROAD UNDER A "DESIGN AND BUILD" CONTRACT IN ORDER TO PROVIDE RELIEF TO THE ROAD CONGESTION AT THE EARLIEST POSSIBLE TIME.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT SAID TRAFFIC CONGESTION WAS EXPERIENCED IN THE MORNING RUSH HOUR AT FOUR HILLY SECTIONS OF THE TSUEN WAN BOUND CARRIAGEWAY.
THE SITUATION WOULD CONTINUE TO WORSEN UNTIL THE COMPLETION OF THE COUNTRY PARK SECTION OF ROUTE 3 IN 1998/99.
A SPECIAL ALLOCATION OF $1,000 MILLION FOR URGENT IMPROVEMENT TO TUEN MUN ROAD WAS ANNOUNCED BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY IN HIS BUDGET SPEECH EARLIER THIS YEAR.
THE "DESIGN AND BUILD" CONTRACT WILL INCLUDE WIDENING THE ROAD AT FOUR HILLY SECTIONS OF THE TSUEN WAN BOUND CARRIAGEWAY TO PROVIDE ONE ADDITIONAL LANE FOR SLOW MOVING HEAVY VEHICLES TOGETHER WITH A FULL LANE-WIDTH HARD SHOULDER AND A VERGE FOR STREET LIGHTING, TRAFFIC SIGNS AND EMERGENCY TELEPHONES.
THE FOUR SECTIONS ARE AT SAM SHING HUI, SO KWUN WAT, TAI LAM AND TING KAU.
THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CLIMBING LANES WILL BRING THE CAPACITY OF THE HILLY SECTIONS UP TO THE SAME CAPACITY AS THE LEVEL SECTIONS THEREBY INCREASING THE OVERALL CAPACITY OF THE ROAD BY 15 PER CENT.
A NOTICE CONCERNING THE PROPOSED WORKS WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
/PLANS SHOWING .......
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 15 -
PLANS SHOWING THE EXTENT OF THE PROPOSED WORKS TOGETHER WITH A SCHEME DESCRIPTION CAN BE SEEN AT THE FOLLOWING GOVERNMENT OFFICES:
* THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
* DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, TUEN MUN, SIXTH AND SEVENTH FLOOR, TUEN MUN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 1, TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN, NEW TERRITORIES;
* TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICE, SECOND FLOOR, TUEN MUN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 1, TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN, NEW TERRITORIES;
* DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, TSUEN WAN,
10TH FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, 174-208 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, TSUEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES;
* TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE,
FIRST FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, 174-208 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, TSUEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES
ANY PERSON WHO WISHES TO OBJECT TO THE WORKS OR THE USE, OR BOTH IS REQUIRED TO ADDRESS HIS OBJECTION IN WRITNG TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT ON OR BEFORE SEPTEMBER 7.
---------0-----------
TENDERS INVITED FOR INFIRMARY SITE FORMATION WORK ******
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR SITE FORMATION, FOUNDATION AND SUBSTRUCTURE WORKS OF A CONVALESCENT AND INFIRMARY HOSPITAL IN TAI PO.
LOCATED AT CHUEN ON ROAD, THE HOSPITAL WILL PROVIDE A TOTAL OF 1,020 BEDS UPON COMPLETION.
WORKS UNDER THIS CONTRACT ARE EXPECTED TO START IN OCTOBER FOR COMPLETION IN AUGUST NEXT YEAR.
TENDER NOTICE OF THE PROJECT IS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 34TH FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG.
TENDER OFFERS WILL CLOSE AT NOON ON AUGUST 6.
/16........
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 16 -
NEW PSC MEMBER APPOINTED
******
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THE APPOINTMENT OF MR CHRISTOPHER CHENG WAI-CHEE AS A MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION WITH EFFECT FROM JULY 15.
MR CHENG IS THE CHAIRMAN OF WING TAI GARMENT INTERNATIONAL LTD.
HE IS ALSO A MEMBER OF THE AIRPORT CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE, THE GOVERNOR’S BUSINESS COUNCIL, THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL AND THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE LINGNAN COLLEGE.
OTHER MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION ARE AS FOLLOWS:
CHAIRMAN MR A K CHUI
MEMBERS DR VICTOR FUNG KWOK-KING
MR PHILIP K H WONG
MR P J THOMPSON
MRS ELEANER LING CHING-MAN
MR D G JEAFFRESON
DR FUNG WILL LEAVE THE COMMISSION ON JULY 15 AFTER SERVING AS A MEMBER FOR THE PAST 13 YEARS.
ANOTHER MEMBER, MR JAMES P C TIEN, RESIGNED FROM THE COMMISSION RECENTLY AFTER HIS ELECTION AS A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
---------0 - -
WEST KOWLOON DRAINAGE WORKS *****
THE SECOND PACKAGE OF IMPROVEMENT WORKS FOR THE DRAINAGE SYSTEM IN THE HINTERLAND OF WEST KOWLOON WILL BE CARRIED OUT IN OCTOBER THIS YEAR.
THE PROJECT FORMS PART OF THE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME OF THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION.
IN A NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY), THE URBAN AREA DEVELOPMENT OFFICE OF THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT INVITED TENDERS FOR THE DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT WORKS.
/THE WORKS .......
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
THE WORKS MAINLY INVOLVE THE RE-CONSTRUCTION OF THE DRAINAGE SYSTEM IN THE WEST KOWLOON HINTERLAND, WHICH COVERS TAI KOK TSUI AND THE AREA BETWEEN ARGYLE STREET IN THE NORTH AND JORDAN ROAD IN THE SOUTH.
THE WORKS WILL IMPROVE THE CAPACITY OF THE DRAINS TO REDUCE RISK OF FLOODING IN THE AREA POSSIBLY BROUGHT ABOUT BY MAJOR DRAINAGE EXTENSION WORKS ACROSS THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION.
UNDER THE CONTRACT, SEWERS AND DRY WEATHER FLOW INTERCEPTORS WILL ALSO BE CONSTRUCTED TO INTERCEPT THE POLLUTED STORMWATER IN THE DRAINAGE SYSTEM FOR IMPROVING THE WATER QUALITY IN THE HARBOUR OFF WEST KOWLOON.
THE WORKS WILL BE COMPLETED IN MID-1996.
CLOSING DATE FOR SENDING IN TENDERS IS NOON ON AUGUST 6.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE OFFICE OF MOTT MACDONALD HONG KONG LIMITED, 12TH FLOOR, SUN HUNG KAI CENTRE, 30 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
- - 0----------
ROAD AND SEWER WORKS FOR CHEUNG CHAU PROPOSED
*****
THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT HAS PROPOSED TO CARRY OUT ROAD AND DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT WORKS IN SAI WAN, CHEUNG CHAU AS PART OF THE CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT ON THE ISLAND.
THE WORKS INVOLVE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A REVETMENT FROM ROUND TABLE FIRST VILLAGE TO SAI WAN, ROADS AND A PROMENADE ON THE REVETMENT, AND THE WIDENING OF THE PART OF SAI WAN ROAD, PEAK ROAD AND TSAN TUEN ROAD IN SAI WAN.
THE WORKS ALSO INCLUDE THE RECLAMATION OF SHUI HANG BAY AND COASTAL AREA FOR FUTURE LAND USES, AS WELL AS THE CONSTRUCTION OF SEWERAGE SYSTEM AND ASSOCIATED STORM DRAINAGE.
A NOTICE OF THE PROPOSED WORKS WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE NOTICE CAN ALSO BE SEEN ON THE NOTICE BOARDS POSTED ON THE SITE.
A PLAN SHOWING THE EXTENT OF THE PROPOSED WORKS TOGETHER WITH THE SCHEME CAN BE SEEN AT
» THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL;
/* DISTRICT LANDS ........
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 18 -
♦ DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, ISLANDS AND THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE ON THE 19TH AND 20TH FLOORS OF THE SAME BUILDING; AND
♦ ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE, CHEUNG CHAU SUB-OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, 22 SAN HING STREET, CHEUNG CHAU.
ANY PERSON OBJECTING TO THE PROPOSALS SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT AT THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, CENTRAL, BEFORE SEPTEMBER 7.
--------0-----------
AMENDMENTS TO DRAFT KWAI CHUNG OUTLINE ZONING PLAN ANNOUNCED
*****
THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD TODAY (FRIDAY) ANNOUNCED AMENDMENTS TO THE DRAFT KWAI CHUNG OUTLINE ZONING PLAN NO. S/KC/8.
THE AMENDMENTS INCLUDE:
» REZONING A SITE AT WO YI HOP ROAD FROM ’’INDUSTRIAL” TO ’’COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT AREA” TO ALLOW FOR COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENTS WHICH MAY INCLUDE RETAIL FACILITIES, OFFICE AND SERVICE APARTMENTS. THE DEVELOPMENT WILL IMPROVE THE GENERAL ENVIRONMENT OF THE AREA.
♦ REZONING THE TSUEN WAN CHINESE PERMANENT CEMETERY AT AREA 26 FROM ’’CEMETERY” TO ’’OTHER SPECIFIED USES” ANNOTATED ’’CEMETERY” .
THE ABOVE AMENDMENTS ARE EXHIBITED UNDER SECTION 7 OF THE TOWN PLANNING ORDINANCE FOR THREE WEEKS. THEY CAN NOW BE INSPECTED AT:
» THE DISTRICT OFFICE (KWAI TSING), 10TH FLOOR, KWAI HING GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 166-174 HING FONG ROAD, KWAI CHUNG, NEW TERRITORIES;
* PLANNING DEPARTMENT, 16TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG; AND
* TSUEN WAN DISTRICT PLANNING OFFICE, 27TH FLO R, TSUEN WAN GOVERNMENT OFFICE, 38 SAI LAU KOK ROAD, 1 UEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES.
ANY PERSON AFFECTED BY THE AMENDMENTS MAY SUBMIT WRITTEN OBJECTIONS TO THE SECRETARY OF THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG BY JULY 30, 1993.
COPIES OF THE AMENDMENT PLAN (PLAN NO. S/KC/9) ARE AVAILABLE AT THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MUARRY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG, OR AT THE KOWLOON MAP SALES SECTION, 382 NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON.
--------0-----------
/19........
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
FILIPINOS CONVICTED OF USING FORGED PASSPORTS * * * * *
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SAID TWO FILIPINOS WERE CONVICTED IN THE WESTERN MAGISTRACY OF OFFENCES RELATING TO POSSESSION OF FORGED TRAVEL DOCUMENTS TODAY (FRIDAY).
ON JULY 5, THE TWO DEFENDANTS ARRIVED IN HONG KONG AS SEAMEN ON BOARD THE SHIP "SEA RAIDER".
AFTER EXAMINING THEIR TRAVEL DOCUMENTS, IMMIGRATION OFFICERS DETECTED THAT THEY WERE PAGE-SUBSTITUTED FORGERIES.
THEY WERE THEN CHARGED FOR POSSESSION OF FORGED TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND THEY PLEADED GUILTY TO THE RESPECTIVE OFFENCES.
THEY WERE EACH SENTENCED TO SIX MONTHS IN JAIL SUSPENDED FOR ONE YEAR.
THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT THE DEPARTMENT WAS DETERMINED TO FIGHT AGAINST THE USE OF FORGED TRAVEL DOCUMENTS.
"WE WILL CONTINUE TO COMMIT CONSIDERABLE RESOURCES TO THE DETECTION, INVESTIGATION, PROSECUTION AND DEPORTATION OF THE USERS AND SUPPLIERS," HE SAID.
OFFENDERS ARE LIABLE TO PROSECUTION AND UPON CONVICTION', TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $50,000 AND IMPRISONMENT FOR 14 YEARS. AIDERS AND ABETTORS ARE ALSO LIABLE TO PROSECUTION AND PENALTY.
- - 0 - -
ONE MORE NOMINATION FOR RC BY-ELECTION
*****
ONE MORE NOMINATION HAS BEEN RECEIVED TODAY (FRIDAY) FOR THE REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN RESPECT OF THE SAI KUNG CONSTITUENCY.
THE CANDIDATE IS MR LAM WING-YIN, AGED 34, AN ACCOUNTS OFFICER. HIS TELEPHONE IS 704 3792.
THIS BRINGS TO FIVE THE TOTAL NUMBER OF NOMINATIONS RECEIVED SINCE THE TWO-WEEK NOMINATION PERIOD BEGAN ON JULY 5.
THE BY-ELECTION WILL BE HELD ON AUGUST 8 TO FILL THE VACANCY LEFT BY MR GILBERT LEUNG KAM-HO.
- - 0 -
/20
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 20 -
CAMPAIGN ON FOSTER CARE SERVICE STARTS
*****
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD A CEREMONY TOMORROW (SATURDAY) IN KWAI CHUNG TO START OFF A SERIES OF PUBLICITY ACTIVITIES ON FOSTER CARE SERVICE FOR THIS YEAR.
THE EVENT IS TO GIVE RECOGNITION TO ORGANISATIONS, DUBBED AS "LOVE AMBASSADOR - FOSTER CARE SERVICE", WHICH HELPS THE CENTRAL FOSTER CARE UNIT TO PROMOTE THE SERVICE.
THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS LOUISE WONG, WILL PRESENT FLAGS TO 12 PARTICIPATING ORGANISATIONS.
A DRAMA DEPICTING THE FOSTER CARE SERVICE WILL BE STAGED DURING THE CEREMONY.
MEANWHILE, A SERIES OF MOBILE EXHIBITIONS ON FOSTER CARE SERVICE WILL BE HELD. THE EXHIBITION CONTAINS EXHIBITION BOARDS, VIDEO SHOW ON FOSTER CARE SERVICE, THREE GAME STALLS, A CARTOON PHOTO COUNTER, DISTRIBUTION OF BALLOONS, SOUVENIRS AND SERVICE LEAFLETS, ON-THE-SPOT BRIEFING ON THE SERVICE.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT CRYSTAL ATRIUM, LEVEL III, METROPLAZA, KWAI FONG TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT 2 PM.
--------0----------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,765
REVERSAL OF LAF +1,035
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,800
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -525
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,275
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.6 *+0.1* 9.7.93
/HONG KONG........
FRIDAY, JULY 9, 1993
- 21 -
EF TERMS HONG BILLS YIELD KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS YIELD
TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE
1 WEEK 3.12 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.55 3.90
1 MONTH 3.17 PCT 16 MONTHS 241 1 4.625 100.81 4.04
3 MONTHS 3.29 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.94 4.18
6 MONTHS 3.47 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.96 4.39
12 MONTHS 3.79 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 19,725 MN
CLOSED JULY 9, 1993
--------0 - -
Received 1 y ?::0 ^-4 3 JUL 4993-
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, JULY 10, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
ARRIVAL RATE OF ILLEGAL VIETNAMESE IMMIGRANTS ON RISE .......... 1
MEASURE IN PLACE TO HANDLE CONTAINER PORT AREA JAM ............. 1
SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME ENTERS 25TH YEAR ........................ 2
TSUEN WAN YOUTH URGED TO JOIN SUMMER PROGRAMME ................. 3
SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME STARTS OFF IN SOUTHERN TOMORROW ......... 3
TAI PO POST OFFICE ON MOVE ..................................... 4
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPFRATIONS .. 4
SUNDAY, JULY 11, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
VACANCIES FOR FIVE CIVIL SERVICE GRADES ........................ 5
AFD STAFF AWARDED FOR SUGGESTIONS
6
SATURDAY, JULY 10, 1993
- 1 -
ARRIVAL RATE OF ILLEGAL VIETNAMESE IMMIGRANTS ON RISE ******
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT THERE HAD BEEN A RECENT INCREASE IN THE RATE OF ILLEGAL VIETNAMESE IMMIGRANTS ARRIVING FROM CHINA.
HE SAID SOME 250 HAD ARRIVED SO FAR THIS MONTH.
THEY WERE BEING ACCOMMODATED ON GREEN ISLAND AND A SPECIAL SECTION OF THE WHITEHEAD DETENTION CENTRE.
THIS GROUP OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS HAVE ALL COME FROM BEI HAI IN GUANGXI PROVINCE.
THEY CLAIMED THAT THEY HAD LEFT BEI HAI BECAUSE THE LOCAL AUTHORITIES HAD DEMOLISHED THEIR HOMES, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE CONFIRMED THAT THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES HAD BEEN URGED TO ACCEPT THE RETURN OF THIS GROUP IN ACCORDANCE WITH ESTABLISHED PROCEDURES.
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF EX-CHINA VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN DETENTION NOW STANDS AT 370.
------0-------
MEASURE IN PLACE TO HANDLE CONTAINER PORT AREA JAM *****
DRIVERS OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLES, INCLUDING CONTAINER VEHICLES, ARE REMINDED THAT IN THE EVENT OF SERIOUS CONGESTION IN THE KWAI CHUNG CONTAINER PORT AREA, VEHICLES APPROACHING THE CONTAINER TERMINALS WILL BE DIVERTED AWAY FROM THE AREA BY POLICE TO AVOID BLOCKING THE MAIN PUBLIC ROADS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SAID IF THE CONTAINER PORT AREA WAS EXPECTED TO BE CONGESTED, A CONTINGENCY PLAN WOULD BE ACTIVATED TO MANAGE TRAFFIC.
WHEN THE LOCAL ROADS IN THE CONTAINER TERMINAL AREAS ARE CONGESTED AND THE EMERGENCY VEHICLE HOLDING AREAS ARE FULL, STAGE 3 OF THE CONTINGENCY PLAN WILL BE EXECUTED, HE ADDED.
UNDER THE PLAN, POLICE WILL MAN THE ROUNDABOUTS AND ACCESS POINTS TO THE CONTAINER PORT AREA.
IF TRAFFIC QUEUES EXTEND FROM THE LOCAL ROADS IN THE CONTAINER TERMINAL AREA AND THREATEN THE MAIN TRUNK ROADS, POLICE WILL TAKE DETERMINED ACTION TO DIVERT APPROACHING VEHICLES AWAY.
HE STRESSED THAT QUEUING ON THE MAIN ROADS WOULD NOT BE PERMITTED.
THE OBJECTIVE OF THE MEASURE IS TO KEEP THE MAIN TRUNK ROADS USED BY THROUGH TRAFFIC FREE OF OBSTRUCTION, WHILE EFFORTS ARE BEING MADE TO CLEAR THE TRAFFIC QUEUE WITHIN THE CONTAINER PORT AREA, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
------0--------
/2........
SATURDAY, JULY 10, 1993
- 2 -
SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME ENTERS 25TH YEAR *****
YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE PARTICIPATED SOME 30 MILLION TIMES IN A WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES ORGANISED UNDER THE ANNUAL SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME (SYP) IN THE LAST 25 YEARS, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
HE WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 1993 SYP PROGRAMME HELD AT THE LYRIC THEATRE OF THE ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS WHEN THE SYP COMMITTEE WAS ALSO CELEBRATING ITS 25TH ANNIVERSARY.
"THE SYP WAS AN EXCELLENT EXAMPLE OF THE COMMUNITY’S CONCERTED EFFORT TO PROMOTE THE WELLBEING OF OUR YOUNG PEOPLE," SIR DAVID SAID.
HE SAID THE ACTIVITIES HAD MADE SUMMER HOLIDAYS MORE FUN AND MEANINGFUL FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.
"THESE PROGRAMMES HAVE GIVEN THEM THE OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE THE COMMUNITY, ACQUIRE NEW SKILLS, BROADEN THEIR OUTLOOK AND DEVELOP THEIR POTENTIALS," SIR DAVID ADDED.
EARLIER, THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SUEN, SAID MORE THAN 1.5 MILLION YOUNG PEOPLE WERE EXPECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE 14,000 ACTIVITIES ORGANISED THIS YEAR.
"APART FROM SHARING THE FUN, YOUNG PEOPLE, THROUGH PARTICIPATION IN THESE ACTIVITIES, CAN ALSO SERVE THEIR COMMUNITY," HE SAID.
MR SUEN SAID EXPENDITURE FOR THIS YEAR’S ACTIVITIES AMOUNTED TO $39 MILLION.
HE SAID WHILE THE HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB DONATED AN AMOUNT OF $14 MILLION, OTHER ORGANISATIONS INCLUDING DISTRICT BODIES, VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS WOULD FUND THE REMAINING $24.7 MILLION.
THE OPENING CEREMONY WAS FOLLOWED BY A TWO-HOUR VARIETY SHOW ORGANISED BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG.
ABOUT 1,000 YOUNG PEOPLE WERE INVITED TO ATTEND. THE SHOW WILL BE RECORDED AND SCREENED ON TVB JADE ON FRIDAY (JULY 16) AT 10.20 PM.
--------0-----------
/3 ........
SATURDAY, JULY 10, 1993
- 3 -
TSUEN WAN YOUTH URGED TO JOIN SUMMER PROGRAMME ♦ * * * *
YOUNGSTERS IN TSUEN WAN DISTRICT WISHING TO HAVE A MEANINGFUL VACATION ARE URGED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE SUMMER YOUTH ACTIVITIES.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME (SYP), THE CHAIRMAN OF ITS ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR CHEN YOH-WEN, SAID A TOTAL OF 372 PROGRAMMES HAD BEEN ORGANISED THIS SUMMER BY 29 LOCAL BODIES AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.
THESE INCLUDE RECREATIONAL, SOCIAL SERVICES AND EDUCATIONAL FUNCTIONS.
THE JOCKEY CLUB AND THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD HAVE ALLOCATED SOME $330,000 TO THE SYP, HE ADDED.
DETAILS OF THE VARIOUS ACTIVITIES ARE CONTAINED IN A BOOKLET AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION FROM THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 492 5096.
---------0-----------
SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME STARTS OFF IN SOUTHERN TOMORROW
* * * » »
THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT’S SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME (SYP) WILL BE LAUNCHED WITH A CARNIVAL AT THE ABERDEEN PROMENADE TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
THE CARNIVAL BEARS A THEME OF ’’LEAD A MEANINGFUL LIFE”.
STALL GAMES, KARAOKE COMPETITION, SINGING AND DANCING PERFORMANCES AND AN EXHIBITION WILL BE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CARNIVAL.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME COMMITTEE, MR LEE SHUN-TAK; DISTRICT OFFICER MRS ROSANNA URE; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR HUI YUNG-CHUNG AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SYP DISTRICT CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE, MR WONG KING-CHEUNG WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
MORE THAN 300 ACTIVITIES WILL BE ORGANISED IN THE DISTRICT THIS YEAR TO CATER FOR THOSE AGED FROM SIX TO 25.
THE HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB FUND AND THE ROTARY CLUB FUND HAVE CONTRIBUTED A TOTAL OF MORE THAN $400,000 TO MEET THE COSTS OF THE VARIOUS ACTIVITIES.
SUCH ACTIVITIES INCLUDE RECREATIONAL, ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS EVENTS AS WELL AS EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL SERVICES PROGRAMMES.
/COPIES OF .......
SATURDAY, JULY 10, 1993
COPIES OF A BROCHURE ON THE FROM THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND LOCAL
SYP FOR THE DISTRICT ARE VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.
AVAILABLE
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT’S SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME OPENING CEREMONY CUM CARNIVAL WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 1.30 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE ABERDEEN PROMENADE.
------0-------
TAI PO POST OFFICE ON MOVE
* * * * *
THE TAI PO POST OFFICE ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF TAI PO GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 1 TING KOK ROAD, WILL MOVE TO ANOTHER UNIT ON THE SAME FLOOR AFTER 1 PM ON SATURDAY (JULY 17).
MAKING THE ANNOUNCEMENT TODAY (SATURDAY), THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, MR M PAGLIARI, SAID THE NEW OFFICE WOULD OPEN FOR BUSINESS AT 9.30 AM ON MONDAY (JULY 19).
ITS BUSINESS HOURS AND TELEPHONE NUMBER WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED.
MR PAGLIARI ADVISED LOCAL PHILATELISTS THAT A SPECIAL HANDBACK SERVICE WOULD BE AVAILABLE AT THE NEW POST OFFICE ON JULY 19 ALTHOUGH ITS ADDRESS AND THE DATESTAMP USED WOULD REMAIN AS BEFORE.
UNREGISTERED FULLY POSTAGE-PREPAID "FIRST DAY COVERS" PREPARED PRIVATELY, AND BEARING A LOCAL ADDRESS, WILL BE ACCEPTED OVER THE COUNTER, IMPRESSED WITH THE NORMAL POST OFFICE DATESTAMP AND HANDED BACK TO THE PERSON PRESENTING THEM.
------0-------
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
LAI RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
* * * * *
$ MILLION
2,275
+ 400
2,675
NIL
-1,010
1,665
TWI 112.9 »+0.3* 10.7.93
- - 0-------
/5
SUNDAY, JULY 11, 1993
- 5 -
VACANCIES FOR FIVE CIVIL SERVICE GRADES * * * * *
UNIVERSITY GRADUATES WHO ARE INTERESTED IN THE WORK OF FIVE CIVIL SERVICE GRADES ARE ADVISED TO WATCH OUT FOR ADVERTISEMENTS IN AUGUST.
THE FIVE GRADES ARE ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER, EXECUTIVE OFFICER II, ASSISTANT LABOUR OFFICER II, MANAGEMENT SERVICES OFFICER II AND ASSISTANT TRADE OFFICER U.
VACANCIES FOR THESE GRADES WILL BE ADVERTISED IN AN ENGLISH DAILY, A CHINESE DAILY AND A CHINESE EVENING DAILY IN AUGUST. THE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS WILL BE EARLY SEPTEMBER.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) THAT GRADUATES WHO POSSESSED A DEGREE FROM A HONG KONG OR BRITISH UNIVERSITY, OR EQUIVALENT, WOULD BE ELIGIBLE TO APPLY.
UNDERGRADUATES WHO ARE TAKING THEIR FINAL DEGREE EXAMINATIONS IN THE SUMMER OF 1994 MAY ALSO APPLY, HE ADDED.
TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF SEPARATE EXAMINATIONS WHICH CANDIDATES HAVE TO TAKE FOR DIFFERENT CIVIL SERVICE JOBS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID A COMMON RECRUITMENT EXAMINATION WOULD BE HELD FOR THE FIVE GRADES IN EARLY NOVEMBER.
FOLLOWING ARE BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE WORK OF THE FIVE GRADES:
* ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FORMULATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF GOVERNMENT POLICIES, CO-ORDINATION AND PLANNING OF PUBLIC PROGRAMMES, AND THE MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL OF RESOURCES. THEY ARE GENERALIST MANAGERS OCCUPYING KEY POSTS OF DIFFERENT NATURES IN SECRETARIAT BRANCHES AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS THROUGHOUT THEIR CAREER.
* EXECUTIVE OFFICERS II ARE MAINLY DEPLOYED ON ASSISTING IN THE DAY-TO-DAY ADMINISTRATIVE FUNCTIONS IN SUPPORT OF DEPARTMENTAL OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES, RESOURCE PLANNING AND CONTROL, PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS AS WELL AS DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION FUNCTIONS.
* ASSISTANT LABOUR OFFICERS II PROVIDE EMPLOYMENT SERVICES TO STUDENTS, JOB SEEKERS AND EMPLOYERS; AND ENFORCE LABOUR LEGISLATION.
* MANAGEMENT SERVICES OFFICERS II CARRY OUT MANAGEMENT SERVICES WORK SUCH AS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCIES, ORGANISATION REVIEWS, VALUE FOR MONEY STUDIES, AND OFFICE AUTOMATION STUDIES. THEY ALSO CONDUCT ASSIGNMENTS ON OFFICE ACCOMMODATION PLANNING AND USE OF OFFICE EQUIPMENT.
* ASSISTANT TRADE OFFICERS II WORK EITHER IN DEPARTMENT OF TRADE OR INDUSTRY AND ASSIST IN RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS, LICENSING AND CONTROL MANAGEMENT, DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND INDUSTRIAL PROMOTION. THEY MAY HAVE OPPORTUNITIES TO ATTEND OVERSEAS CONFERENCES OR TO ASSIST IN OVERSEAS NEGOTI ATIONS.
/6 ........
SUNDAY, JULY 11, 1993
AFD STAFF AWARDED FOR SUGGESTIONS * * * * »
EIGHT STAFF MEMBERS OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT (AFD) WERE RECENTLY AWARDED BY THE DEPARTMENT FOR COMING UP WITH SUGGESTIONS THAT HELP IMPROVE WORK EFFICIENCY AND CUT COSTS BY MAKING BETTER USE OF RESOURCES.
THEY WERE AWARDED A TOTAL OF $18,000 CASH PRIZES PLUS CERTIFICATES OF DEPARTMENT COMMENDATION UNDER THE DEPARTMENTAL STAFF SUGGESTIONS SCHEME TRIED OUT FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE DEPARTMENT.
THE OVERALL WINNER OF THE SCHEME, MR LAM FOOK-HING, A WORKMAN AT THE MA ON SHAN COUNTRY PARK MANAGEMENT CENTRE, WAS AWARDED $7,500 FOR HIS SUGGESTION TO INCREASE THE CARRYING CAPACITY OF A BARBECUE PIT BY DIGGING ANOTHER GROUND PIT BELOW THE STOVE TO HOLD MORE ASHES.
OTHER MERITORIOUS PROPOSALS INCLUDE A METHOD TO PRODUCE HIGH QUALITY CONCRETE SLABS; UTILISING WASTE CONCRETE TO BUILD RETAINING WALLS AND PATHS ON RECREATION SITES IN COUNTRY PARKS; A NEW SYSTEM TO LINK COMPUTER INFORMATION IN THE DEPARTMENT AND A WAY TO TRANSPORT LARGE ROCKS IN COUNTRY PARKS.
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, DR LAWRENCE LEE, SAID HE WAS PLEASED WITH THE RESPONSE OF HIS STAFF TO THE SUGGESTION SCHEME.
HE NOTED THAT THE SCHEME WHICH WAS PREVIOUSLY ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT WAS NOW PUT ON TRIAL AS A DEPARTMENTAL SCHEME IN NINE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
HE SAID IT WAS ENCOURAGING TO SEE THAT THE SCHEME WAS A SUCCESS IN THE DEPARTMENT, ATTRACTING 13 ENTRIES AND 15 SUGGESTIONS.
THIS RESPONSE OF 0.67 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL STAFF STRENGTH MAKES THE HIGHEST PARTICIPATION RATE AMONG ALL THE DEPARTMENTS TAKING PART IN THE TRIAL SCHEME.
"THE DEPARTMENT IS ALSO ONE OF THE CO-CHAMP 1ONS IN TERMS OF THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF CASH PRIZES AWARDED."
WHILE COMMENDING THE STAFF FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTION, DR LEE URGED THEM TO CONTINUE THEIR GOOD WORK IN SERVING THE DEPARTMENT AND THE COMMUNITY.
OTHER AFD STAFF MEMBERS AWARDED WERE MR MAK KOON-LAU; MR TSOI TUNG-MING; MR SHIEH KAM-WAH; MR CHAN LAP-PONG; MR YAU TAK-CHIU; MR KWOK FOOK-TSUEN AND MR WOO TING-KWONG.
TWENTY-SEVEN STAFF MEMBERS WERE ALSO GIVEN 30 YEARS’ MERITORIOUS SERVICE CERTIFICATES.
- - 0 - -
Received by PRO on 1 5 JUL .HU.
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
CIVIL SERVICE PLEDGES BETTER SERVICE: GOVERNOR .................. 1
$20 BILLION LAND REVENUE PROJECTED .............................. 1
FIRST STAGE OF CONSULATION ON BUDGET COMPLETES .................. 3
INQUIRY ORDERED INTO SEA ACCIDENT ................................5
GUESTHOUSES COME UNDER LICENSING CONTROL IN SEPTEMBER ........... 5
PROPOSAL TO CHARGE FOR DISPOSAL OF PRIVATELY COLLECTED WASTE 7
SALE OF OTB HAS YFT BEEN AGREED ................................. 8
KEMPSTER REPORT PART IT SUBMTTTED TO GOVERNOR ................... 8
HK'S INDUSTRIAL RESTRUCTURING EXPLAINED ......................... 8
HK'S EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS FOR MAY ......................... 10
ATR QUALITY RFPORT FOR JUNE RELEASED ........................... 19
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ........................................... 20
LEGCO TO DEBATE LEGISLATURE/EXECUTIVF LINKS .................... 21
ONE MORE NOMINATION FOR RC BY-ELECTION ......................... 22
WATER CUTS IN TSTM SHA TSUI .................................... 22
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
23
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
1
CIVIL SERVICE PLEDGES BETTER SERVICE: GOVERNOR
*****
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, SAID TODAY (MONDAY) HONG KONG WAS BLESSED WITH A CIVIL SERVICE AND PUBLIC CORPORATIONS THAT HAD A STRONG COMMITMENT TO PROVIDING GOOD SERVICE TO THEIR CLIENTS.
SPEAKING AT A PRESENTATION CEREMONY EOR THE ORIENTAL GOLDEN BRIDGE & HEART OF GOLD AWARDS, THE GOVERNOR SAID IMPROVING CIVIL SERVANTS’ PERFORMANCE WAS A KEY PART OF HIS POLICY ADDRESS IN OCTOBER LAST YEAR.
’’ALREADY, A GREAT DEAL HAS BEEN DONE TO INTRODUCE PERFORMANCE PLEDGES,” HE SAID.
A TOTAL OF 18 MAJOR DEPARTMENTS HAVE ANNOUNCED THEIR INITIAL PLEDGES, WHILE ANOTHER 16 ARE SET TO DO SO BY SEPTEMBER. ALMOST ALL DEPARTMENTS WILL HAVE DONE SO BY DECEMBER.
THESE PLEDGES TELL THE PUBLIC - THE GOVERNMENT’S CUSTOMERS -WHAT THEY CAN EXPECT.
"THEY GIVE A STANDARD AGAINST WHICH EACH CIVIL SERVANT AND ORGANISATION CAN MEASURE THEIR OWN PERFORMANCE.
"ABOVE ALL, THEY FOCUS ATTENTION ON THE NEED TO PROVIDE A SERVICE THAT IS ONE RESPONSIVE TO THE NEEDS OF THE CUSTOMER,” THE GOVERNOR ADDED.
BUT HE STRESSED THESE PLEDGES WERE NOT A ’’ONE-OFF EXERCISE”, SAYING THAT EACH DEPARTMENT WOULD CARRY OUR REGULAR REVIEWS OF ITS SERVICES AND STANDARDS, ASSISTED BY CUSTOMERS’ COMMENT AND PARTICIPATION.
"THIS WILL, I TRUST, LEAD TO A DEEPENING AND STRENGTHENING OF THE CULTURE OF SERVICE WITHIN THE ADMINISTRATION," HE SAID.
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$20 BILLION LAND REVENUE PROJECTED *****
THE ESTIMATED REVENUE FROM LAND SALE AND LEASE MODIFICATIONS DURING THIS FINANCIAL YEAR WOULD BE ABOUT $20 BILLION, ACCORDING TO THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS, MR ROBERT POPE.
ADDRESSING A ROTARY CLUB OF NEW TERRITORIES MEETING THIS (MONDAY) EVENING, MR POPE SAID ALTHOUGH THE ESTIMATE FROM LAND SALE THIS YEAR MIGHT BE LESS THAN THAT OF LAST YEAR, THE REVENUE FROM LEASE MODIFICATION WAS EXPECTED TO DOUBLE.
"THE ESTIMATED REVENUE FROM LAND SALE IN 1993/94 IS $9.3 BILLION WHICH COMPARES TO THE ACTUAL REVENUE OF $11.5 LAST YEAR.
/"THE ESTIMATED .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 2 -
"THE ESTIMATED REVENUE FROM LEASE MODIFICATIONS AND EXCHANGES IS $9.8 BILLION WHICH IS ABOUT DOUBLE OF THAT LAST YEAR, DUE TO A NUMBER OF VERY LARGE LEASE MODIFICATIONS CURRENTLY BEING NEGOTIATED.
"IT WILL BE SEEN THAT REVENUE FROM BOTH SOURCES IS ESTIMATED TO BE AROUND $20 BILLION," HE SAID.
MR POPE SAID THE LEASES ALSO PROVIDED A USEFUL TOOL TO ENABLE THE GOVERNMENT TO ADMINISTER LAND.
"OVER THE YEARS, COVENANTS HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN LEASES RESTRICTING DEVELOPMENT TO THAT CONSIDERED TO BE DESIRABLE AT THE TIME OF SALE.
"TIMES AND POLICIES CHANGE AND IN SOME AREAS IT IS NOW POSSIBLE TO PERMIT MORE INTENSIVE DEVELOPMENT THAN THAT STATED IN THE LEASE."
IN THESE CASES, THE GOVERNMENT VARIES THE RESTRICTED COVENANTS IN THE LEASE TO PERMIT DEVELOPMENT TO PRESENT-DAY STANDARDS.
A PREMIUM IS PAYABLE FOR THIS AND IS ASSESSED ON THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE LAND VALUE UNDER THE RESTRICTED LEASE AND THAT AFTER LEASE MODIFICATION, HE SAID.
MR POPE NOTED THAT THE PRAGMATIC APPROACH OF THE LAND COMMISSION HAD ENABLED HONG KONG TO PROSPER SINCE THE SIGNING OF THE JOINT DECLARATION IN 1985 AND HAD GIVEN LAND ADMINISTRATION A GOOD BASE TO ENTER THE YEAR 2,000.
"LAND DISPOSAL IN HONG KONG IS CONTROLLED UNDER ANNEX III OF THE JOINT DECLARATION TO 50 HECTARES PER YEAR, UNLESS OTHERWISE AGREED BY THE SINO-BRITISH LAND COMMISSION."
IN FACT, THE AVERAGE OVER THE PAST NINE YEARS HAS BEEN 104 HECTARES, DOUBLE THAT OF THE 50 HECTARES LIMIT.
THE LAND DISPOSAL PROGRAMME AGREED BY THE LAND COMMISSION THIS YEAR (93/94) IS 127.8 HECTARES, HE SAID.
MR POPE POINTED OUT THAT THE LEASEHOLD SYSTEM IN HONG KONG HAD MANY SIMILARITIES TO THE LAND TENURE SYSTEM USED IN CHINA.
"LAND IN SHANGHAI, GUANGDONG AND SHENZHEN IS SOLD FOR LEASE TERMS OF 50-70 YEARS WITH SIMILAR CONDITIONS OF SALE AS THOSE USED IN HONG KONG.
"MANY PROFESSIONAL SURVEYORS IN HONG KONG ADVISE THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA ON LAND MATTERS AND MY DEPARTMENT OFTEN EXCHANGE VISITS AND INFORMATION WITH DIFFERENT LAND ADMINISTRATION BUREAU OFFICIALS FROM PROVINCES IN CHINA," HE SAID.
/3 ........
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 3 -
FIRST STAGE OF CONSULTATION ON BUDGET COMPLETES *****
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, TODAY (MONDAY) COMPLETED HIS ROUND OF CONSULTATION WITH LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS ON THE EXPENDITURE ASPECTS FOR THE 1994/95 BUDGET.
DESCRIBING THIS FIRST STAGE OF CONSULTATION AS VERY HELPFUL, HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD BE STUDYING MEMBERS’ VIEWS AND HE HAD BEEN PASSING COPIES OF THESE VIEWS TO THE RELEVANT POLICY SECRETARIES TO LOOK AT THEM FURTHER AND WOULD ARRIVE AT SOME GENERAL VIEWS THIS MONTH.
HE ALSO SAID WHEN HE SPOKE TO THE MEDIA THIS AFTERNOON THAT CONSULTATION ON REVENUE WOULD TAKE PLACE LATER THIS YEAR, IN OCTOBER OR NOVEMBER.
WHEN ASKED ABOUT THE EFFECTS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS IN CHINA ON OUR GDP FORECAST, MR MACLEOD SAID: "WE ARE HAVING TO LOOK AT OUR GROWTH FORECAST, ASSUMPTION, FOR THE NEXT FEW YEARS IN THE LIGHT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS IN CHINA.
"OUR AIM IS TO AVOID TOO MUCH STOP-GO IN OUR BUDGETTING, SO WE LIKE TO HAVE AN AVERAGE FIGURE. AT THE MOMENT, IT IS 5 PER CENT. COUPLES OF YEARS AGO IT WAS 5.5 PER CENT. SO WE DON’T ALTER THAT FIGURE EASILY. BUT WE CERTAINLY HAVE TO TAKE NOTE OF WHAT MIGHT BE HAPPENING IN CHINA AS A RESULT OF THEIR INFLATION PROBLEM. AND THAT IS A FACTOR WE HAVEN’T TAKEN A FINAL VIEW ON YET."
IT WAS STILL EARLY DAYS YET TO TELL HOW THE MEASURES TAKEN BY CHINA WOULD AFFECT THEIR ECONOMY AND THE FEEDBACK INTO OUR ECONOMY, HE SAID, ADDING THAT AT THE MOMENT HE WAS NO']’ EXPECTING ANYTHING TOO DRAMATIC ON OUR ECONOMY.
ON THE EFFECTS OF THE FINANCIAL PACKAGE ON THE AIRPORT PROJECT ON THE FORECAST OF OUR RESERVES, HE SAID:
"CLEARLY ANYTHING WE DO WHICH CHANGES THE AMOUNT OF EQUITY AND DEBT, THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THOSE TWO FOR THE AIRPORT OR THE AIRPORT RAILWAY, MAY AFFECT, IS LIKELY TO AFFECT OUR FORECASTS OF THE RESERVES.
"SIMILARLY, ANY DECISION WE TAKE IN THE BUDGET ON REVENUE MEASURES OR EXPENDITURE MEASURES WILL AFFECT THOSE FORECASTS TOO.
"THEY ARE GOING TO CHANGE EVERY YEAR IN THE LIGHT OF THE DECISIONS WE TAKE DURING THE YEAR AND OUR ASSUMPTIONS ABOUT THE ECONOMY. I AM NOT GOING TO GUESS WHAT THE NEW FIGURES MIGHT BE. THAT WOULD HAVE TO EMERGE FROM THE BUDGET."
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY ALSO SAID NOW THAT THE GREENLIGHT HAD BEEN GIVEN TO THE CENTRAL AND WAN CHAI RECLAMATION FROM CHINA, THE GOVERNMENT WOULD LIKE TO GET ON WITH THE PROJECT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
/THE GOVERNMENT .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
4
THE GOVERNMENT INTENDED TO PUT THE FUNDING REQUEST TO THE LEGCO SUB-COMMITTEE ON ACP ON THURSDAY AND TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE ON FRIDAY THE FOLLOWING WEEK, HE SAID.
HE HOPED THAT APPROVAL COULD BE OBTAINED BEFORE THE END OF THIS LEGCO SESSION.
THAT WOULD BE EXTREMELY HELPFUL IN KEEPING AIRPORT PROJECTS ON TIME, HE SAID, ADDING: ’’PROVIDED WE ALSO GET THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING LEGISLATION THROUGH THIS SESSION.”
"IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT WE CAN GET APPROVAL FOR THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING THROUGH IF WE ARE TO MAINTAIN MOMENTUM ON THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME AND I BELIEVE, IF WE HAVE TO RETAIN CONFIDENCE OF INVESTORS IN SUCH PROJECTS, FUTURE PROJECTS IN HONG KONG.
"IT WILL BE TAKEN AS QUITE A BAD SIGN IF THIS PROJECT DOES NOT GET THROUGH," HE SAID.
THE TENDER THEN HAD TO BE PUT AWAY AND THE GOVERNMENT WOULD HAVE TO DECIDE HOW ELSE TO DEAL WITH THIS PROJECT, HE POINTED OUT.
"IT WOULD BE EXTREMELY UNFORTUNATE FOR THE TAXPAYERS IF WE ENDED UP HAVING TO PAY FOR IT OUT OF TAXPAYERS’ FUNDS.
"I AM VERY ANXIOUS THAT THIS SHOULD NOT HAPPEN," HE SAID.
HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD DONE ITS BEST TO LOOK AFTER THE INTERESTS OF CONSUMERS.
HE NOTED THAT THERE WOULD BE SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS WHEREBY GOOD PROFITS ABOVE THE CEILING LEVEL WOULD BE PUT ASIDE IN RESERVE TO MAKE FUTURE TOLL INCREASES LESS LIKELY.
HE DESCRIBED THIS AS AN "IMAGINATIVE STEP".
THE GOVERNMENT WOULD ALSO ENSURE THAT THE BURDEN OF THE TOLL WOULD FALL LESS HEAVILY ON BUS PASSENGERS AND MORE ON PRIVATE CARS, WHICH HE REGARDED AS A REASONABLE ARRANGEMENT AS THE LATTER WERE BETTER ABLE TO PAY FOR IT, HE ADDED.
CONCEDING THAT THERE WERE CRITICISMS FROM LEGCO MEMBERS ABOUT THE PROJECT, HE HOPED THAT IN THE END "THIS VITAL PROJECT FOR HONG KONG" WOULD GET THROUGH.
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 5 -
INQUIRY ORDERED INTO SEA ACCIDENT
******
THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR IAN DALE, THIS (MONDAY) MORNING ORDERED A PRELIMINARY INQUIRY INTO AN ACCIDENT INVOLVING THE HONG KONG-REGISTERED JETFOIL ’’URZELA” IN MACAU WATERS LAST (SUNDAY) NIGHT.
FORTY-ONE PERSONS ON BOARD THE JETFOIL WERE REPORTED AS BEING INJURED.
THE INQUIRY WAS ORDERED UNDER THE MERCHANT SHIPPING ORDINANCE AFTER MR DALE HAD CONSIDERED AN INLTIAL REPORT ON THE INCIDENT.
THE PURPOSE OF THE INQUIRY IS TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSES OF THE ACCIDENT.
NAUTICAL SURVEYOR, CAPTAIN CHEUNG TAI-KEE, HAS BEEN APPOINTED TO CONDUCT THE INQUIRY.
SHORTLY AFTER 8 PM YESTERDAY (SUNDAY), THE HONG KONG-BOUND ’’URZELA” REPORTEDLY HIT A SEMI-SUBMERGED PIPELINE NEAR THE MACAU HARBOUR APPROACH CHANNEL.
ACCORDING TO THE JETFOIL COMPANY, 15 OF THE 264 PERSONS ON BOARD WERE TAKEN TO HOSPITAL IN MACAU.
ANOTHER 180 PERSONS WERE CONVEYED BACK TO HONG KONG BY ANOTHER JETFOIL. ON ARRIVING HONG KONG, 22 WERE SENT TO QUEEN MARY AND TANG SHIU KIN HOSPITALS AND FOUR OTHERS WENT TO QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL ON THEIR OWN.
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GUESTHOUSES COME UNDER LICENSING CONTROL IN SEPTEMBER
*****
ALL TOURIST GUESTHOUSES WILL BE REQUIRED BY LAW TO OPERATE UNDER LICENCE AS FROM SEPTEMBER I THIS YEAR, THE PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS (BUILDING MANAGEMENT), MR FRANCIS LO, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
HE REMINDED THE OPERATORS THAT THEY SHOULD HAVE THE NECESSARY IMPROVEMENT WORKS COMPLETED BY THE END OF AUGUST IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LICENSING CONDITIONS AS THE EXEMPTION PERIOD WOULD EXPIRE BY THEN.
WHILE MANY GUESTHOUSES HAVE ALREADY TAKEN STEPS TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS, SOME OPERATORS APPEAR TO BE ADOPTING A "WAIT-AND-SEE” ATTITUDE, HE SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S INTENTION TO ENFORCE LICENSING CONTROL FROM SEPTEMBER 1 WAS A VERY FIRM ONE.
/"TIME IS .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 6 -
"TIME IS RUNNING OUT AND I URGE THOSE OPERATORS TO TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTIONS IF THEY WISH TO QUALIFY FOR A LICENCE," HE STRESSED.
UNDER THE HOTEL AND GUESTHOUSE ACCOMMODATION ORDINANCE, ANYONE WHO OPERATES A GUESTHOUSE WITHOUT A VALID CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION OR A LICENCE COMMITS AN OFFENCE.
THE OFFENDERS ARE LIABLE ON CONVICTION TO A FINE OF $200,000 AND TO IMPRISONMENT FOR TWO YEARS, AND TO A FURTHER FINE OF $20,000 FOR EACH DAY DURING WHICH THE OFFENCE CONTINUES.
THE ORDINANCE WAS ENACTED IN 1991 TO PROVIDE FOR A LICENSING SCHEME TO REGULATE THE FIRE AND BUILDING SAFETY OF HOTELS AND GUESTHOUSES.
OPERATORS WERE THEN GIVEN A TWO-YEAR EXEMPTION PERIOD, DURING WHICH OFFICERS FROM THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION’S LICENSING AUTHORITY INSPECTED THEIR PREMISES AND ADVISED THEM IN WRITING ON THE NECESSARY IMPROVEMENT WORKS TO BE CARRIED OUT.
FURTHERMORE, MR LO SAID, TWO LETTERS HAD BEEN SENT TO INDIVIDUAL TOURIST GUESTHOUSE OPERATORS, IN APRIL AND JUNE THIS YEAR, REMINDING THEM OF THE EXPIRY OF THE EXEMPTION PERIOD AND URGING THEM TO COMPLETE THE IMPROVEMENTS IN TIME.
HE ADDED THAT OPERATORS WHO ENCOUNTER DIFFICULTIES IN CARRYING OUT THESE WORKS ARE WELCOME TO CONTACT THE OFFICE OF LICENSING AUTHORITY WHOSE STAFF WILL BE HAPPY TO PROVIDE THE NECESSARY ADVICE AND GUIDANCE.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
THE PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS (BUILDING MANAGEMENT), MR FRANCIS LO, WILL BE AVAILABLE TO ANSWER ANY FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS ON THE SUBJECT AT 3.30 PM TODAY (MONDAY) IN THE CNTA CONFERENCE ROOM, 30TH FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE, 130 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI .
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE SESSION.
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MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
7 -
PROPOSAL TO CHARGE FOR DISPOSAL OF PRIVATELY COLLECTED WASTE ******
THE PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS BRANCH HAS ISSUED A CONSULTATION PAPER OUTLINING PLANS TO INTRODUCE CHARGING FOR THE DISPOSAL OF WASTE AT LANDFILLS BY PRIVATE WASTE COLLECTORS.
THE PROPOSAL CALLS FOR THE LEVYING OF CHARGES OF $175 FOR LOADS BELOW FIVE TONNES AND $350 FOR LOADS ABOVE THAT WEIGHT ON ALL PRIVATE WASTE COLLECTION VEHICLES DISPOSING OF WASTE AT LANDFILLS.
THESE CHARGING LEVELS REPRESENT ABOUT HALF OF THE DISPOSAL COSTS. THE LEVELS WILL BE PROGRESSIVELY INCREASED TO ACHIEVE FULL COST RECOVERY.
IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE INITIAL MODERATE LEVEL OF CHARGES WILL NOT INDUCE A SERIOUS PROBLEM OF EVASION THROUGH INDISCRIMINATE DUMPING. NEVERTHELESS, CONTINGENCY MEASURES WILL BE DEVISED IN CASE SUCH A PROBLEM ARISES.
THE PROPOSAL IS INTENDED TO APPLY THE POLLUTER PAYS PRINCIPLE AND TO ENCOURAGE WASTE MINIMISATION AND RECYCLING.
IT IS ALSO A BID TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM OF A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN THE AMOUNT OF CONSTRUCTION WASTE DELIVERED TO LANDFILLS IN RECENT YEARS.
ABOUT 12,000 TONNES OF CONSTRUCTION WASTE PER DAY IS NOW GOING TO LANDFILLS BUT MUCH OF THIS IS INERT MATERIAL AND SHOULD BETTER BE DISPOSED OF AT PUBLIC DUMPS AND USED FOR RECLAMATION PURPOSES.
THE INTRODUCTION OF CHARGES WILL ENCOURAGE WASTE GENERATORS TO SEPARATE INERT FROM NON-INERT MATERIALS AND MINIMISE THE AMOUNT OF WASTE GOING TO LANDFILLS.
THE CONSULTATION PAPER AND FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSAL IS OBTAINABLE BY WRITING TO THE ENVIRONMENT DIVISION OF THE PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS BRANCH, 20TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, CENTRAL. PUBLIC COMMENTS SHOULD BE MADE TO THE SAME ADDRESS BEFORE AUGUST 20, 1993.
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/8 ........
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 8 -
SALE OE OTB HAS YET BEEN AGREED *****
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN THIS (MONDAY) EVENING CONFIRMED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD BEEN IN DISCUSSIONS WITH A NUMBER OF INTERESTED PARTIES RELATING TO THE PROPOSED SALE OF OVERSEAS TRUST BANK (OTB), ONE OF WHICH IS GUOCO GROUP LIMITED.
GUOCO GROUP LIMITED HAS ISSUED EARLIER TODAY A PRESS STATEMENT STATING THAT THE GROUP WAS CURRENTLY IN DISCUSSIONS WITH THE GOVERNMENT IN RELATION TO THE PROPOSED SALE BY THE GOVERNMENT OF THE ENTIRE ISSUED SHARE CAPITAL OF OTB.
"WE ALSO CONFIRM THAT THE 1) ISCUSSIONS ARE ONGOING BUT THAT NO TERMS FOR THE PROPOSED SALE OF OTB HAVE YET BEEN AGREED WITH GUOCO OR ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE GOVERNMENT WILL, HOWEVER, ISSUE A FURTHER PRESS RELEASE HOPEFULLY BEFORE THE END OF JULY IF AND WHEN THE TERMS FOR THE SALE OF OTB ARE AGREED WITH ANY ONE OF THE INTERESTED PARTIES," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
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KEMPSTER REPORT PART II SUBMITTED TO GOVERNOR
*****
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN CONFIRMED TODAY (MONDAY) THAT MR JUSTICE KEMPSTER HAD SUBMITTED PART II OF HIS INQUIRY REPORT ON WITNESS PROTECTION TO THE GOVERNOR.
"ARRANGEMENTS ARE NOW BEING MADE FOR THE ENGLISH VERSION OF THE REPORT TO BE PRINTED. IT WILL RE PUBLISHED ON JULY 16, 1993. THE FULL CHINESE VERSION OF THE REPORT WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE AS SOON AS THE NECESSARY TRANSLATION AND PRINTING WORK IS COMPLETED," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
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HK'S INDUSTRIAL RESTRUCTUR1 NG *****
EXPLAINED
THE MOVEMENT OF HONG KONG'S INDUSTRIES TO SOUTHERN CHINA SHOULD BE VIEWED AS AN EXPANSION OF HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL BASE, THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF INDUSTRY, MR RICKY FUNG, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
SPEAKING AT AN OECD WORKSHOP IN PARIS ON FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT, MR FUNG SAID SINCE THE OPENING OF CHINA IN 1979, HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIALISTS HAD MADE CONSIDERABLE USE OF LOWER LABOUR AND LAND COSTS FOR THE MANUFACTURING - ON A MUCH LARGER SCALE - OF GOODS.
"AND HONG KONG CONTINUES TO PLAY A LEADING ROLE ON INVESTMENT, MANAGEMENT, LINKAGE MATERIALS, FINISHING, AND RE-EXPORTING," HE SAID.
/MR FUNG .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
9
MR FUNG SAID THE STRUCTURAL CHANGES TO HONG KONG’S ECONOMY, TOGETHER WITH THE EXPANSION OF HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIES INTO SOUTHERN CHINA, WERE MAKING POSITIVE CONTRIBUTIONS TO HONG KONG’S ECONOMY GENERALLY AND TO ITS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES IN PARTICULAR.
HE SAID THE REDUCTION IN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES’ SHARE IN HONG KONG’S GDP WAS BALANCED BY RAPID ADVANCES IN OTHER SECTORS OF THE ECONOMY, SUCH AS TRADING, TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS, AND ONE OF THE MAIN IMPETUS FOR THE ADVANCES IN THESE OTHER SECTORS WAS THE NEED TO SUPPORT OUR MUCH ENLARGED PRODUCTION BASE IN SOUTHERN CHINA.
’’EVEN IN THE LOCAL MANUFACTURING SECTOR ALONE, IN REAL TERMS, INDUSTRIAL OUTPUT IN HONG KONG INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY AT AN AVERAGE ANNUAL RATE OF ABOUT 7.8 PER CENT IN ALMOST THE WHOLE OF THE 1980s AND HAS REMAINED STABLE ONLY SINCE 1989.
’’THIS MEANS THAT, IN SPITE OF THE CHANGES IN THE STRUCTURE OF OUR ECONOMY, HONG KONG STILL HAS A SUBSTANTIAL MANUFACTURING SECTOR WHICH IS TODAY PRODUCING, IN REAL TERMS, 8.6 PER CENT MORE THAN IT DID SIX YEARS AGO.
’’MORE IMPORTANTLY, THE RESTRUCTURING OF HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL BASE IN THIS WAY HAS RELEASED LABOUR IN HONG KONG FOR OTHER EXPANDING SECTORS OF THE ECONOMY AND HAS ENABLED THE INDUSTRIES THAT REMAIN IN HONG KONG TO CONCENTRATE ON HIGHER-VALUE ADDED, HIGHER-QUALITY PRODUCTS,” HE SAID.
MR FUNG ADDED THAT PRODUCTIVITY PER PERSON ENGAGED - LARGELY THE RESULT OF GREATER AUTOMATION, MORE EFFICIENT PRODUCTION PROCESSES, AND A CONCENTRATION ON HIGHER-VALUE ADDED PRODUCTS - HAD GROWN AT AN IMPRESSIVE RATE.
”IN REAL TERMS, PRODUCTIVITY PER PERSON HAS INCREASED BY AN AVERAGE 11.1 PER CENT PER ANNUM BETWEEN 1986 AND 1992.
’’THIS FIGURE COMPARES FAVOURABLY WITH THE EQUIVALENT RATES FOR DEVELOPED INDUSTRIAL ECONOMIES AND FOR NEWLY INDUSTRIALISED ECONOMIES IN THE REGION,” HE SAID.
MR FUNG ALSO OUTLINED THE RANGE OF GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT, INCLUDING INVESTING IN HUMAN RESOURCES, PROVIDING LAND FOR HIGH-TECH INDUSTRIES AND BRINGING IN NEW TECHNOLOGY THROUGH PROMOTING INWARD INVESTMENT TN HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING SECTOR.
MR FUNG SAID HONG KONG WOULD NOT CLAIM TO BE IN THE VANGUARD OF TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT: THE AMOUNT OF RESOURCES DEVOTED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT WOULD NEVER MATCH THOSE IN JAPAN, THE UNITED STATES OR EVEN THE OTHER ’’LITTLE DRAGONS” IN ASIA.
’’BUT WE DO NOT HAVE AN INFERIORITY COMPLEX: WE HAVE MERELY CHOSEN A DIFFERENT PATH.
"OUR POLICY OF SUPPORTING BUT NOT SUBSIDISING; OF ENCOURAGING BUT NOT INTERVENING; OF PROMOTING BUT NOT PROTECTING; AND OF RESPECTING MARKET FORCES BUT NOT OBSESSING IN STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS, HAS SERVED HONG KONG WELL AND WE HAVE NO INTENTION OF CHANGING IT,” HE SAID.
/10........
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 10 -
HK'S EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS FOR MAY * * * * *
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) RELEASED DETAILED STATISTICS ON EXTERNAL TRADE WITH BREAKDOWN BY COUNTRY/TERRITORY AND COMMODITY FOR MAY 1993.
THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS IN MAY 1993, AT $66,935 MILLION, SHOWED A SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE OF 17% OVER MAY 1992, WHEREAS DOMESTIC EXPORTS DECREASED BY 6.5% TO $18,149 MILLION OVER THE SAME PERIOD.
COMPARING MAY 1993 WITH MAY 1992, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO THE NETHERLANDS, CHINA, GERMANY, THE UNITED STATES, SINGAPORE, FRANCE AND THE UNITED KINGDOM INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY, BY 29%, 28%, 26%, 25%, 24%, 16% AND 13% RESPECTIVELY.
THAT TO JAPAN AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA INCREASED BY 9.0% AND 4.2% RESPECTIVELY.
HOWEVER, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO TAIWAN DECREASED BY 13%.
THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS IN THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993 WAS $308,748 MILLION, 23% HIGHER THAN THAT IN THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
COMPARING THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO MOST OF THE MAJOR DESTINATIONS : CHINA (+38%), THE NETHERLANDS (+32%), SINGAPORE (+27%), THE UNITED KINGDOM (+26%), THE UNITED STATES (+25%), GERMANY (+23%), FRANCE (+21%), JAPAN (+14%) AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+4.9%).
HOWEVER, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO TAIWAN DECREASED BY 18%.
COMPARING THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS OF ALL MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
MORE NOTABLE INCREASES WERE REGISTERED FOR ROAD VEHICLES (BY $8,994 MILLION OR 180%); ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $6,030 MILLION OR 31%); TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $5,855 MILLION OR 31%); FOOTWEAR (BY $5,645 MILLION OR 45%); MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $5,214 MILLION OR 16%); CLOTHING (BY $4,295 MILLION OR 15%); AND TEXTILES (BY $1,044 MILLION OR 4.0%).
AS REGARDS DOMESTIC EXPORTS, INCREASES OF 17% AND 12% IN VALUE WERE RECORDED FOR THOSE TO MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE RESPECTIVELY WHEN COMPARING MAY 1993 WITH MAY 1992. A SLIGHT INCREASE OF 1.0% WAS RECORDED FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO OTHER MAJOR DESTINATIONS : THE UNITED KINGDOM (-22%), JAPAN (-22%), GERMANY (-9.4%), THE UNITED STATES (-9.3%), CANADA (-8.7%), THE NETHERLANDS (-8.0%) AND TAIWAN (-2.5%).
/COMPARING THE .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
COMPARING THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO SINGAPORE, MALAYSIA AND CHINA INCREASED BY 18%, 17% AND 12% RESPECTIVELY.
HOWEVER, DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO OTHER MAJOR DESTINATIONS : THE UNITED KINGDOM (-13%), CANADA (-11%), JAPAN (-9.6%), GERMANY (-8.8%), THE NETHERLANDS (-8.6%), THE UNITED STATES (-6.8%) AND TAIWAN (-5.4%).
FOR ALL DESTINATIONS TAKEN TOGETHER, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS IN THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993, AT $84,673 MILLION, DECREASED BY 1.3% OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
COMPARING THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE REGISTERED FOR ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $1,574 MILLION OR 21%); TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $694 MILLION OR 14%); AND MACHINERY SPECIALISED FOR PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES (BY $206 MILLION OR 16%).
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, DECREASES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE RECORDED FOR CLOTHING (BY $2,029 MILLION OR 8.1%); MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY JEWELLERY, GOLDSMITHS’ AND SILVERSMITHS’ WARES (BY $1,056 MILLION OR 12%); PHhTimw4PH!C APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY $812 MILLION OR 11%); AND OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES (BY $181 MILLION OR 2.3%).
THE VALUE OF IMPORTS IN MAY 1993 WAS $90,724 MILLION, INCREASING BY 11% OVER THAT IN MAY 1992.
COMPARING MAY 1993 WITH MAY 1992, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM MOST OF THE MAJOR SUPPLIERS : THE UNITED STATES (+41%), MALAYSIA (+26%), ITALY (+17%), JAPAN (+14%), THE UNITED KINGDOM (+14%), CHINA (+9.7%), GERMANY (+8.6%) AND SINGAPORE (+6.5%).
HOWEVER, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM TAIWAN SLIGHTLY DECREASED BY 0.2%.
COMPARING THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM ALL THE MAJOR SUPPLIERS INCREASED : MALAYSIA (+29%), THE UNITED STATES (+29%), SINGAPORE (+26%), GERMANY (+22%), ITALY (+20%), JAPAN (+18%), CHINA (+14%), TAIWAN (+12%), THE UNITED KINGDOM (+9.6%) AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+8.8%).
THE VALUE OF IMPORTS IN THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993 WAS $417,432 MILLION, AN INCREASE OF 17% OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
COMPARING THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS OF MOST MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
/MORE NOTABLE .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 12 -
MORE NOTABLE INCREASES WERE REGISTERED FOR ROAD VEHICLES (BY $13,094 MILLION OR 122%); ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $8,504 MILLION OR 25%); TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $4,798 MILLION OR 17%); FOOTWEAR (BY $4,484 MILLION OR 39%); CLOTHING (BY $4,151 MILLION OR 15%); AND MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $3,726 MILLION OR 15%).
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, A DECREASE IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS WAS RECORDED FOR TEXTILES (BY $1,237 MILLION OR 3.0%).
ALL THE TRADE STATISTICS DESCRIBED HERE ARE MEASURED AT CURRENT PRICES AND NO ACCOUNT HAS BEEN TAKEN OF THE CHANGES IN PRICES BETWEEN THE PERIODS OF COMPARISON.
A SEPARATE ANALYSIS OF THE VOLUME AND PRICE MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR MAY 1993 WILL BE RELEASED IN EARLY AUGUST.
DETAILED TRADE STATISTICS ANALYSED BY COMMODITY AND BY COUNTRY/TERRITORY ARE PUBLISHED IN TRADE STATISTICS REPORTS.
THE MAY 1993 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE" WITH DETAILED ANALYSES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE IN MAY 1993 WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT $68.50 A COPY AROUND JULY 19.
THE REPORT CAN BE PURCHASED EITHER AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, OR THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CEN^liS 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. NO. 842 8802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE STATISTICS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL. NO. 582 4915).
NOTE TO EDITORS:
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR DESTINATIONS ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 1.
TABLE 2 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR DESTINATIONS ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 3.
TABLE 4 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM THE 10 MAJOR SUPPLIERS ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 5.
TABLE 6 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
/TABLE 1 : .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 13 -
TABLE 1 : RE-EXPORTS TO THE [O MAJOR DESTINATIONS
DESTINATION MAY 1993 (HKD Mn.) MAY 93 OVER MAY 92 (% CHANGE) JAN-MAY 1993 (HKD Mn.) JAN-MAY 93 OVER JAN-MAY 92 (% CHANGE)
CHINA 23,631 * 27.8 105,834 ♦ 37.7
UNITED STATES 14,830 * 25.3 62,977 * 24.8
JAPAN 2,998 ♦ 9.0 15,525 ♦ 14.3
GERMANY 3,085 ♦ 26.1 15,072 * 23.4
TAIWAN 1,967 - 13.1 9,177 - 17.9
UNITED KINGDOM 1,726 + 12.6 8,192 ♦ 26.2
SINGAPORE 1,356 * 23.7 6,740 * 27.3
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 1,343 * 4.2 6,055 * 4.9
FRANCE 1,057 ♦ 16.5 5,174 * 20.5
NETHERLANDS 932 * 28.5 4,624 * 31.7
/TABLE 2 : .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993'
- 14
TABLE 2 : RE-EXPORTS OF THE IO MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION MAY 1993 (HKD Mn.) MAY 93 OVER MAY 92 (% CHANGE) JAN-MAY 1993 (HKD Mn.) JAN-MAY 93 OVER JAN-HAY 92 (% CHANGE)
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 8,221 * 11.2 36,838 * 16.5
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 6,622 * 11.7 32,076 J 15.5
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS ’ 6,371 - 15.1 27,397 * 4.0
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 5,466 + 18.8 25,278 + 31.3
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 5,479 * 30.7 24,781 * 30.9
FOOTWEAR 3,837 ♦ 45.0 18,088 ♦ 45.4
ROAD VEHICLES 3,107 *181.8 13,992 *179.9
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 2,933 * 22.2 13,426 + 21.0
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 2,098 * 29.7 10,700 * 37.3
TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR CONTAINERS 2,352 * 8.8 10,335 ♦ 10.3
/TABLE 3*: .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
15 -
TABLE 3 : DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE IO MAJOR DESTINATIONS
DESTINATION MAY 1993 (HKD Mn.) MAY 93 OVER MAY 92 (% CHANGE) JAN-MAY 1993 (EKD Mn.) JAN-MAY 93 OVER JAN-MAY 92 (% CHANGE)
CHINA 5,473 * 1.0 25,305 ♦ 11.6
UNITED STATES 4,766 - 9.3 20,515 - 6.8
GERMANY 1,073 - 9.4 4,972 - 8.8
SINGAPORE 997 * 12.3 ; 4/602 * 18.0
JAPAN 714 - 21.7 4,048 - 9.6
UNITED KINGDOM 794 * - 21.9 3,926 - 13.3
TAIWAN 501 - 2.5 2,480 - 5.4
NETHERLANDS 312 - 8.0 1,722 - 8.6
CANADA 354 a - 8.7 1,688 - 11.0
MALAYSIA 249 • ♦ 17.2 1,166 * 16.9
/TABLE 4 : .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993 '
16 -
TABLE 4 : DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF THE IO MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION MAY 1993 (HKD Mn.) MAY 93 OVER MAY 92 (% CHANGE) JAN-MAY 1993 (HKD Mn.) JAN-MAY 93 OVER JAN-MAY 92 (% CHANGE)
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 5,245 - 7.3 23,152 - 8.1
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 1,895 * 6.0 9,050 * 21.0
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY JEWELLERY, ' GOLDSMITHS’ ANJ SILVERSMITHS' WARES) • 1,613 - 12.4 7,698 r - 12.1
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 1,486 - 16.3 • 7,542 2.3
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 1,542 - 13.2 6,809 - 0.9
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 1,300 - 20.1 6,436 - 11.2
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 1,188 ♦ 15.9 5,545 * 14.3
MANUFACTURES OF METALS 384 - 8.3 1,856 - 5.4
MACHINERY SPECIALIZED FOR PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES 336 * 12.2 1,485 + 16.1
PLASTICS IN PRIMARY FORMS 260 - 23.4 1,394 ♦ 1.2
/TABLE 5 : .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
17 -
TABLE 5 : IMPORTS FROM TEE IO MAJOR SUPPLIERS
SUPPLIER MAY 1993 (HKD Mn.) HAY 93 OVER HAY 92 (% CHANGE) JAN-MAY 1993 (EKD Mn.) JAN-MAY 93 OVER JAN-MAY 92 (% CHANGE)
CHINA 32,324 * 9.7 148,230 ♦ 13.8
JAPAN 15,043 * 14.0 72,542 * 18.1
TAIWAN 8,042 - 0.2 37,143 * 11.6
UNITED STATES 7,930 ♦ 40.5 32,572 * 29.4
REPUBLIC OF KOREA * 4,415 + 0.2 19,659 + 8.8
SINGAPORE 4,240 + 6.5 18,342 ♦ 25.6
GERMANY 2,024 ♦ 8.6 10,073 ♦ 22.1
UNITED KINGDOM 1,650 * 13.7 8,295 * 9.6
ITALY 1,396 + 16.7 6,606 ♦ 19.8
MALAYSIA 1,490 ♦ 26.0 6,230 ♦ 29.5
/TABLE 6 : .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
18
TABLE 6 : IMPORTS OF THE |O MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION MAY 1993 (HKD Mn.) MAY 93 OVER MAY 92 (% CHANGE) JAN-MAY 1993 (HKD Mn.) JAN-MAY 93 OVER JAN-MAY 92 (% CHANGE)
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 9,230 * 12.8 43,106 ♦ 24.6
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 9,258 - 19.0 40,548 - 3.0
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 7,048 * 16.3 32,569 * 14.6
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 7,265 * 20.7 32,525 * 17.3
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY EABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 6,388 * 13.7 28,682 * 14.9
ROAD VEHICLES 5,239 *135.5 23,867 *121.6
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 4,204 * 13.9 18,828 + 8.1
FOOTWEAR 3,327 * 30.9* 15,954 * 39.1
GENERAL INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT, AND MACHINE PARTS 3,247 * 27.6 14,484 * 32.3
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 2,898 - 1.4 14,232 * 12.8
---------0-----------
/19........
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 19 -
AIR QUALITY REPORT FOR JUNE RELEASED * * * * *
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) TODAY (MONDAY) RELEASED AIR QUALITY INFORMATION FOR JUNE 1993.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EPD SAID THE PURPOSE OF THE ANNOUNCEMENT WAS TO KEEP THE PUBLIC INFORMED OF THE AIR QUALITY LEVELS IN THE TERRITORY AND TO EXPLAIN THE MEASUREMENTS.
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 IN 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 JUNE, THERE WERE NO EXCEEDANCE OF THE ONE-HOUR AND 24-HOUR AIR QUALITY OBJECTIVES FOR ANY OF THE POLLUTANTS REPORTED.
COMPARED TO 1992, MONTHLY VALUES OF NO2 AND TSP AT MONG KOK AND KWAI CHUNG WERE SLIGHTLY HIGHER THAN IN THE SAME MONTH.
IN KWAI CHUNG, SO2 WAS HIGHER THAN LAST YEAR BUT AT MONG KOK IT WAS SIMILAR.
AMONGST THE STATIONS REPORTED, LEVELS OF NO2 AND PARTICULATES REMAINED HIGHER AT THE GROUND LEVEL SITE IN MONG KOK THAN THE OTHER TWO SITES.
DURING THE MONTH, PEAKS OF SO2 AT KWAI CHUNG WERE OBSERVED ON JUNE 1, 5, 7 AND 22.
PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS INDICATED THAT A SINGLE LARGE EMISSION SOURCE TOGETHER WITH THE PREVAILING WIND CONDITIONS MIGHT HAVE ACCOUNTED FOR THE FIRST THREE PEAKS WHILE TOTAL EMISSIONS FROM NEARBY INDUSTRIAL AREAS UNDER LOW WIND SPEED SITUATIONS COULD BE THE CAUSE OF THE FOURTH PEAK.
ON JUNE 6, NO2 LEVELS ROSE TO A MAXIMUM AT ALL REPORTED SITES FOR THE MONTH.
IN MONG KOK, THE DAILY AVERAGE VALUE WAS 123 UG/CU M BUT STILL SMALLER THAN THE 24-HOUR AIR QUALITY OBJECTIVE VALUE OF 150.
/THE EPD .......
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
THE EPD ANALYSIS FOR THAT DAY REVEALED THAT A POOR POLLUTANT DISPERSION OWING TO LOW WIND SPEED, COUPLING WITH ABUNDANT SUNSHINE DURING THE DAY, PROVIDED FAVOURABLE CONDITIONS FOR THE OXIDATION OF NITRIC OXIDE IN THE AIR TO NITROGEN DIOXIDE.
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 01 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 CURRENTLY MONITORS AIR QUALITY CONTINUOUSLY AT 11 STATIONS, INCLUDING THE THREE MENTIONED ABOVE. SHORT-TERM MEASUREMENT CAMPAIGNS ARE ALSO UNDERTAKEN AS AND WHERE THE NEED ARISES.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
FURTHER ENQUIRY CAN BE DIRECTED TO PRINCIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICER, MR W S TSUI, ON TEL 594 6401.
- - 0 - -
WATER STORAGE FIGURE *****
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 72.2 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 423.067 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 465.465 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 79.4 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
- - 0 - -
/21
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 21 -
LEGCO TO DEBATE LEGISLATURE/EXECUTIVE LINKS *****
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL DEBATE AT ITS MEETING ON WEDNESDAY (JULY 14) A MOTION ON THE WORKING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE EXECUTIVE AND THE LEGISLATURE.
THE MOTION IS PROPOSED BY THE HON VINCENT CHENG.
THE HON ANNA WU WILL MOVE ANOTHER MOTION ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN INDEPENDENT HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY WILL MAKE A STATEMENT ON EXCHANGE FUND.
THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES WILL MOVE TWO MOTIONS, ONE UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE AND THE OTHER UNDER THE REGISTERED TRUSTEES INCORPORATION ORDINANCE.
THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE WILL PRESENT A CONSULTATION DOCUMENT ON HEALTH POLICY AND THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS ASSISTANCE FUND ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1991/92.
MEMBERS WILL ASK A TOTAL OF 20 QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER SEVEN BILLS.
TWO BILLS, CRIMINAL PROCEDURE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 AND LEVERAGED FOREIGN EXCHANGE TRADING BILL, WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
FIVE OTHER BILLS ARE DUE TO GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE GIVEN A THIRD READING.
THEY ARE: SUPPLEMENTARY APPROPRIATION (1992-93) BILL 1993; EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRES BILL; IMPORT AND EXPORT (AMENDMENT) BILL 1992 AND FILM CENSORSHIP (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993.
THE HON HOWARD YOUNG WILL PRESENT THE HONG KONG SPORTS DEVELOPMENT BOARD ANNUAL REPORT 1992-93 AND THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY WILL PRESENT THE REPORT BY THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE ON POLICE WELFARE FUND FOR 1990/91.
THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE WILL PRESENT SIR DAVID TRENCH FUND FOR RECREATION TRUSTEE’S REPORT 1992-93 WHILE THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER WILL PRESENT TWO AUDITED STATEMENTS OF ACCOUNTS.
ONE IS FOR THE SING TAO FOUNDATION STUDENTS’ LOAN FUND FOR YEAR ENDING AUGUST 31, 1992 AND THE OTHER WAS ON THE HONG KONG ROTARY CLUB STUDENTS’ LOAN FUND OVER THE SAME PERIOD.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OBSERVE THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE MEETING FROM THE PUBLIC GALLERY. THEY MAY RESERVE SEATS BY CALLING 869 9492.
-----0 - -
/22 ........
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
ONE MORE NOMINATION FOR RC BY-ELECTION *****
ONE MORE NOMINATION HAS BEEN RECEIVED TODAY (MONDAY) FOR THE REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN RESPECT OF THE SAI KUNG CONSTITUENCY.
THE CANDIDATE IS MR WONG SHUI-SANG, AGED 46, MERCHANT. HIS TELEPHONE IS 792 7354.
THIS BRINGS TO SIX THE TOTAL NUMBER OF NOMINATIONS RECEIVED SINCE THE TWO-WEEK NOMINATION PERIOD BEGAN ON JULY 5.
THE BY-ELECTION WILL BE HELD ON AUGUST 8 TO FILL THE VACANCY LEFT BY MR GILBERT LEUNG KAM-HO.
- - 0 - -
WATER CUTS IN TSIM SHA TSUI *****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN TSIM SHA TSUI WILL GO OFF FROM 11 PM TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE PREMISES BOUNDED BY SALISBURY ROAD, NATHAN ROAD, MODY ROAD, MINDEN ROW AND MIDDLE ROAD.
OWING TO CONNECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS, SALT WATER SUPPLY TO ALL THE PREMISES AT AUSTIN ROAD, CHEONG WAN ROAD, SALISBURY ROAD, SCIENCE MUSEUM ROAD, GRANVILLE ROAD, CARNARVON ROAD AND KIMBERLEY ROAD WILL ALSO BE SUSPENDED FROM 11 PM ON WEDNESDAY (JULY 14) TO 7 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY.
- - 0 - -
/23
MONDAY, JULY 12, 1993
- 23 -
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
1,665
+ 1 ,135
2,800
NIL
+ 95
2,895
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
TWI 113.1 *+0.2* 12.7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.05 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.50 3.94
1 MONTH 3.11 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.72 4.11
3 MONTHS 3.29 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.84 4.24
6 MONTHS 3.49 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.86 4.45
12 MONTHS 3.80 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 15,022 MN
CLOSED 12 JULY 1993
- - 0------------
Received by PRO on 1 6 JUL 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, JULY 13, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
12TH BATCH OF NON-REFUGEES RETURNED TO VIETNAM ................. 1
CUSTOMER LIAISON GROUPS FOR TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ............ 1
BARONESS DUNN TO SPEAK ON BRITISH CITIZENSHIP FOR NON-CHTNESE ETHNIC MINORITIES ............................................. 2
RATES FOR THIRD QUARTER DUE ON JULY 31 ......................... 3
REMINDER ON DEADLINE FOR RETURNING SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRES .... 4
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS .............. 6
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
7
TUESDAY, JULY 13, 1993
- 1 -
12TH BATCH OF NON-RBFUGEES RETURNED TO VIETNAM
»»»»»»
THE REFUGEE CO-ORDINATOR, MR BRIAN BRESNIHAN, TODAY (TUESDAY) WELCOMED THE SMOOTH REPATRIATION OF 50 VIETNAMESE NON-REFUGEES UNDER THE ORDERLY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME (ORP).
’’THIS IS THE 12TH FLIGHT SINCE THE SIGNING OF THE ORP AGREEMENT ON OCTOBER 29, 1991 AND IT HAS AGAIN BEEN UNEVENTFUL. WE HAVE REPATRIATED A TOTAL OF 622 NON-REFUGEES TO VIETNAM ON THESE FLIGHTS,” MR BRESNIHAN SAID.
TODAY’S GROUP OF 50 SCREENED-OUT NON-REFUGEES WERE PREDOMINANTLY NORTH VIETNAMESE COMPRISED 23 MEN, 12 WOMEN, 10 BOYS AND FIVE GIRLS FROM THE NEI KWU CHAU AND CHI MA WAN DETENTION CENTRES.
THEY ALL ARRIVED IN HONG KONG IN 1988 AND 1989.
”WE SCHEDULE THESE ORP FLIGHTS AT SEVERAL WEEKS’ INTERVAL AND WILL CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN THESE FLIGHTS AS A MEANS TO ENCOURAGE VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION,” MR BRESNIHAN SAID.
COMMENTING ON THE VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION FIGURES, MR BRESNIHAN SAID ALMOST 4,000 VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS HAD GONE HOME THIS YEAR.
’’WHILE IT IS DISAPPOINTING THAT THE RECORD FIGURES ACHIEVED IN THE LATTER PART OF 1992 HAVE NOT BEEN SUSTAINED IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF THIS YEAR, THE NUMBER VOLUNTEERING IS INCREASING.”
”1 HOPE THAT THE HIGH RATE OF DEPARTURES ESTABLISHED IN 1992 IS NOW BEGINNING TO RE-EMERGE,” MR BRESNIHAN SAID.
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CUSTOMER LIAISON GROUPS FOR TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT IS TO SET UP CUSTOMER LIAISON GROUPS (CLG) AS THE SECOND PHASE OF ITS PERFORMANCE PLEDGE SCHEME A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).
’’SUCH GROUPS WILL ENABLE OUR CUSTOMERS TO MONITOR OUR SERVICE, AND ADVISE ON THE WAYS TO MAKE OUR LICENSING SERVICES MORE USER-FRIENDLY,” HE SAID.
TWO CLGS WILL BE FORMED, ONE IS TO MONITOR THE HONG KONG LICENSING OFFICE AND THE OTHER THE REMAINING THREE LICENSING OFFICES.
THE CLGS WILL BE CHAIRED BY ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER FOR
TRANSPORT/MANAGEMENT AND LICENSING, MR ERNEST LEE.
THE SPOKESMAN URGED CUSTOMERS OF THE DEPARTMENT TO COME FORWARD TO SERVE AS CLG MEMBERS.
/'•VIEWS EXPRESSED.......
TUESDAY, JULY 13, 1993
2
’’VIEWS EXPRESSED AT THE CLG MEETINGS WILL SURELY HELP US BETTER SERVE OUR CUSTOMERS,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
IF THEY ARE INTERESTED TO SERVE ON THE CLGS, ALL THAT NEEDS TO BE DONE IS FOR THEM TO FILL IN A SIMPLE FORM. COPIES OF THE FORM ARE AVAILABLE AT ALL LICENSING OFFICES. COMPLETED FORMS CAN BE PLACED IN DROP-IN BOXES AT THE OFFICES.
"WE SHALL THEN GET IN TOUCH WITH THEM," HE ADDED.
EACH CLG WILL COMPRISE A CHAIRMAN AND ABOUT 20 MEMBERS. THE FIRST MEETING IS SCHEDULED TO BE HELD IN SEPTEMBER, AND SUBSEQUENT MEETINGS WILL BE CONVENED AT QUARTERLY INTERVALS.
---------0-----------
BARONESS DUNN TO SPEAK ON BRITISH CITIZENSHIP FOR NON-CHINESE ETHNIC MINORITIES * ♦ » t *
BARONESS DUNN HAS LEFT FOR LONDON TONIGHT (TUESDAY) TO TAKE PART IN A DEBATE IN THE HOUSE OF LORDS ON THURSDAY (JULY 15 LONDON TIME) ON BRITISH CITIZENSHIP FOR NON-CHINESE ETHNIC MINORITIES.
BEFORE HER DEPARTURE, BARONESS DUNN SAID THE NON-CHINESE ETHNIC MINORITIES WILL EFFECTIVELY BE RENDERED STATELESS IN 1997 WHEN SOVEREIGNTY CHANGES. BRITAIN HAS A MORAL AND CONSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITY TO THEM.
"I WILL DO MY BEST TO PUT FORWARD THEIR CASE IN THE HOUSE OF LORDS."
THE DEBATE IS ON A MOTION TO BE MOVED BY LORD BONHAM-CARTER "THAT THIS HOUSE CALLS UPON HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT TO GIVE FULL BRITISH CITIZENSHIP TO MEMBERS OF THE NON-CHINESE ETHNIC MINORITIES IN HONG KONG WHO WILL BE WITHOUT A RIGHT OF ABODE ELSEWHERE AFTER 1997."
IT IS EXPECTED THAT A VOTE MAY BE TAKEN AT THE END OF THE DEBATE. BARONESS DUNN HAS CONTACTED FRIENDS OF HONG KONG IN THE HOUSE OF LORDS TO SUPPORT THE MOTION.
A DEBATE ON THIS ISSUE WAS HELD IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS LAST WEEK AFTER A GROUP OF HONG KONG LEGISLATORS LOBBIED THE PARLIAMENT.
THE ISSUE IS A LONG-STANDING ONE. BARONESS DUNN LED A CAMPAIGN TO SEEK FULL BRITISH CITIZENSHIP FOR THESE MEMBERS IN 1986.
"THE ISSUE NEVER WENT AWAY, WE ARE COMMITTED TO FINDING A JUST SOLUTION FOR THESE PEOPLE," SAID BARONESS DUNN.
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/3.........
TUESDAY, JULY 13, 1993
- 3 -
RATES FOR THIRD QUARTER DUE ON JULY 31
*****
RATEPAYERS ARE ADVISED THAT THE RATES FOR THE THIRD QUARTER OF THIS YEAR ARE DUE ON JULY 31.
PAYMENT MAY BE MADE BY POST TO THE DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING SERVICES, PO BOX 8000, GPO, HONG KONG OR IN PERSON AT ANY OF THE FOLLOWING OFFICES:
* THE TREASURY HEADQUARTERS COLLECTION AND PAYMENT OFFICE, IMMIGRATION TOWER; FIRST FLOOR, 7 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG;
* THE CENTRAL SUB-TREASURY, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES (WEST WING), 11 ICE HOUSE STREET, HONG KONG;
* THE NORTH POINT SUB-TREASURY, MAX SHARE CENTRE, FIRST FLOOR, 373 KING’S ROAD, HONG KONG;
* THE SAI WAN HO SUB-TREASURY, EASTERN LAW COURTS BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, 29 TAI ON STREET, SAI WAN HO, HONG KONG;
* THE YAU MA TEI SUB-TREASURY, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, FOURTH FLOOR, 405 NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON;
* THE KOWLOON CITY SUB-TREASURY, MAN SANG COMMERCIAL BUILDING, FIRST FLOOR, 348-352 PRINCE EDWARD ROAD, KOWLOON;
« THE DISTRICT OFFICE AT SAI KUNG, SHA TIN, TAI PO, NORTH, YUEN LONG, TUEN MUN, TSUEN WAN OR KWAI TSING.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TREASURY SAID DEMAND NOTES HAD BEEN ISSUED.
RATEPAYERS WHO HAVE NOT RECEIVED THEM SHOULD BRING ALONG RATES DEMAND NOTES FOR ANY PREVIOUS QUARTER TO ANY OF THE TREASURY COLLECTION OFFICES, HE SAID.
DUPLICATE DEMAND NOTES WILL BE ISSUED TO THEM, HE ADDED.
IF THE RATEPAYERS CANNOT PRODUCE DEMAND NOTES FOR ANY PREVIOUS QUARTER, THEY SHOULD INQUIRE AT THE TREASURY RATES SECTION, IMMIGRATION TOWER, 30TH FLOOR, 7 GLOUCESTER ROAD, HONG KONG.
NON-RECEIPT OF THE DEMAND NOTE DOES NOT ALTER THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE RATES MUST BE PAID BY NOON ON JULY 31. OTHERWISE, RATEPAYERS MAY BE SUBJECT TO A SURCHARGE OF 5 PER CENT UNDER SECTION 22 OF THE RATING ORDINANCE.
A FURTHER SURCHARGE OF 10 PER CENT MAY BE LEVIED ON THE OUTSTANDING AMOUNT (INCLUDING THE 5 PER CENT SURCHARGE) WHICH REMAIN UNPAID SIX MONTHS AFTER THE DUE DATE.
RATEPAYERS WHO HAVE SUBMITTED A VALID DIRECT DEBIT AUTHORISATION SHOULD NOTE THAT PAYMENT SHOULD STILL BE MADE BY POST OR IN PERSON AS STIPULATED IN THE DEMAND NOTE UNLESS THE WORDING "PAYMENT TO BE MADE BY AUTOPAY" IS SHOWN IN THE DEMAND NOTE.
/IF SO..........
TUESDAY, JULY 13, 1993
IF SO, THEIR PAYMENT OF RATES WILL BE MADE BY DIRECT DEBIT TO THEIR BANK ACCOUNTS ON JULY 31. RATEPAYERS SHOULD ENSURE THAT THEIR BANK ACCOUNTS CONTAIN THE NECESSARY FUNDS ON THAT DATE.
RATES ARE PAYABLE ON VACANT PROPERTIES BUT ARE REFUNDABLE UNDER THE CONDITIONS SPECIFIED IN THE ORDINANCE.
HOWEVER, NO REFUNDS WILL BE MADE IN THE CASE OF A VACANT TENEMENT LAST USED OR INTENDED TO BE USED WHOLLY OR PRIMARILY FOR DOMESTIC PURPOSES OR FOR THE PARKING OF VEHICLES (UNLESS VACANT BY REASON OF AN ORDER OF THE GOVERNMENT).
TO SAVE TIME OF QUEUEING, THE SPOKESMAN URGED RATEPAYERS TO PAY BY POST USING CHEQUES OR MONEY ORDERS, OR BY EARLY PERSONAL ATTENDANCE AT ANY OF THE COLLECTION OFFICES.
HOWEVER, THE MOST CONVENIENT WAY IS TO PAY BY AUTOPAY UNDER WHICH RATEPAYERS’ BANK ACCOUNTS WILL ONLY BE DEBITED ON DUE DATES.
APPLICATIONS FOR AUTOPAY ARE OBTAINABLE FROM TREASURY COLLECTION OFFICES, DISTRICT OFFICES AND ALL MAJOR BANKS IN HONG KONG OR BY TELEPHONING 829 5019.
------0 - -
REMINDER ON DEADLINE FOR RETURNING SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRES
*****
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY) REMINDED SAMPLED ESTABLISHMENTS IN THE FOLLOWING SURVEYS IN RESPECT OF 1992 TO RETURN SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRES:
♦ ANNUAL SURVEY OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION;
* ANNUAL SURVEY OF WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADERS, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS;
» ANNUAL SURVEY OF BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND REAL ESTATE SECTORS;
♦ ANNUAL SURVEY OF TRANSPORT AND RELATED SERVICES; AND
* ANNUAL SURVEY OF STORAGE, COMMUNICATION, FINANCING, INSURANCE AND BUSINESS SERVICES.
THESE SURVEYS ARE CONDUCTED ANNUALLY BY THE DEPARTMENT TO COLLECT UP-TO-DATE STATISTICAL DATA FOR EVALUATING THE CONTRIBUTION OF VARIOUS ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES TO HONG KONG’S GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT AND FOR ASCERTAINING THEIR COST STRUCTURE, OPERATING CHARACTERISTICS AND OUTPUT LEVELS.
/THE SURVEY .......
TUESDAY, JULY 13, 1993
- 5 -
THE SURVEY RESULTS ARE USEFUL TO BOTH THE GOVERNMENT AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN FORMULATING POLICIES AND MAKING DECISIONS.
QUESTIONNAIRES WERE MAILED BETWEEN APRIL AND MAY THIS YEAR TO ABOUT 26,000 ESTABLISHMENTS SAMPLED FOR THE 1992 SURVEYS.
THE ESTABLISHMENTS CONCERNED ARE LEGALLY REQUIRED TO RETURN THE COMPLETED QUETSIONNAIRES TO THE DEPARTMENT BY JULY 31 THIS YEAR.
THE COMMISSIONER FOR CENSUS AND STATISTICS, MR FREDERICK HO, APPEALS TO THE MANAGEMENT OF ALL SAMPLED ESTABLISHMENTS TO FULFIL THEIR LEGAL OBLIGATION BY RETURNING PROMPTLY THE COMPLETED QUESTIONNAIRES AND CO-OPERATING WITH OFFICERS OF THE DEPARTMENT IN THE COURSE OF THE SURVEYS.
THOSE WHO FAIL TO DO SO MAY BE COMMITTING AN OFFENCE.
EACH QUESTIONNAIRE OF THESE ANNUAL ECONOMIC SURVEYS HAS BEEN SO DESIGNED THAT RESPONDENTS CAN COMPLETE IT BY THEMSELVES.
IF NECESSARY, OFFICERS OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, WHO CARRY A GOVERNMENT IDENTITY CARD AND A CERTIFICATE FOR CONDUCTING THE RESPECTIVE SURVEYS, WILL VISIT THE ESTABLISHMENTS CONCERNED TO HELP THEM IN COMPLETING THE QUESTIONNAIRES.
MR HO POINTED OUT THAT AUDITED ACCOUNTS WERE NOT ESSENTIAL FOR SUPPLYING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE DATA REQUIRED BY THE SURVEYS.
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ACCEPTS FIGURES BASED ON PRELIMINARY ACCOUNTS OR ESTIMATES WHICH ARE CORRECT TO THE BEST OF THE RESPONDENTS’ KNOWLEDGE AT THE TIME OF SUBMISSION OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE, IF AUDITED ACCOUNTS ARE NOT YET AVAILABLE.
HE ALSO STRESSED THAT INFORMATION RELATING TO INDIVIDUAL ESTABLISHMENTS WOULD BE TREATED IN STRICT CONFIDENCE UNDER THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS ORDINANCE.
ONLY AGGREGATE INFORMATION THAT DOES NOT REVEAL DETAILS OF INDIVIDUAL ESTABLISHMENTS WILL BE RELEASED.
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/6.........
TUESDAY, JULY 13, 1993
- 6
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDER RESULTS
* * * ♦ ♦
TENDER DATE 13 JUL 93 13 JUL 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q328 Y391
AMOUNT APPLIED HK$4,160 MN HK$990 MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HK$1,000 MN HKS300 MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 3.27 PCT 3.85 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 3.27 PCT 3.89 PCT
PRO RATA RATIO ABOUT 88 PCT ABOUT 33 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 3.30 PCT 3.90 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 19 JULY 1993 -
TENDER DATE 20 JUL 93 20 JUL 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q329 H369
ISSUE DATE 21 JUL 93 21 JUL 93
MATURITY DATE 20 OCT 93 19 JAN 94
TENOR 91 DAYS 182 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HK$1,000 + 200 MN HKS400 + 80 MN
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/7........
TUESDAY, JULY 13, 1993
7
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,895
REVERSAL OF LAF _95
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,800
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -820
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,980
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 113.0 *-0.1* 13.7,93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.76 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.52 3.92
1 MONTH 2.91 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.76 4.08
3 MONTHS 3.21 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.86 4.23
6 MONTHS 3.42 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.91 4.42
12 MONTHS 3.80 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 18,350 MN
CLOSED 13 JULY 1993
- - 0 - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
OWNERS AND WORKERS REMINDED TO OBSERVE NEW NOISE REGULATION . 1
GOVT SEEKS INFORMATION ON ALLEGED SEA INCIDENT ................. 2
STATEMENT ON DRIVERS' STRIKE ................................... 3
MONITORING OF SCHOOL ACCOUNTS .................................. 3
MACAU WORKS SECRETARY VISITS HK ................................ 4
READING SCHEME TO COVER PRIMARY SCHOOLS ........................ 4
FRESH WATER CUT IN TSIM SHA TSUI ............................... 5
FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETS ON FRIDAY .............................. a
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
6
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
OWNERS AND WORKERS REMINDED TO OBSERVE NEW NOISE REGULATION ******
A REGULATION THAT PROVIDES EMPLOYEES WITH MORE EFFECTIVE PROTECTION AGAINST NOISE HAZARDS IN INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS WILL COME INTO FORCE TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TODAY REMINDED PROPRIETORS AND WORKERS TO OBSERVE THE NEW FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (NOISE AT WORK) REGULATION WHICH WAS APPROVED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN MID-JULY LAST YEAR.
UNDER THE REGULATION, INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKING PROPRIETORS ARE REQUIRED TO APPOINT COMPETENT PERSONS TO CONDUCT NOISE ASSESSMENTS AND DEMARCATE AFFECTED AREAS AS EAR PROTECTION ZONES WHEN THE EMPLOYEES ARE LIKELY TO BE EXPOSED TO NOISE HAZARDS.
"A COPY OF THE NOISE ASSESSMENT REPORT, TO BE COMPLETED BY A COMPETENT PERSON, SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WITHIN 28 DAYS AFTER ASSESSMENT BY THE PROPRIETOR," HE SAID.
WHERE DEMARCATION IS IMPRACTICABLE, FOR EXAMPLE ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE WHERE NOISY MACHINES ARE BEING MOVED AROUND QUITE FREQUENTLY, THE REGULATION REQUIRES PROPRIETORS TO LABEL THE NOISY MACHINES INDICATING THE DISTANCE WITHIN WHICH EAR PROTECTORS MUST BE WORN.
"DEMARCATION AND LABELLING WILL MAKE THE EMPLOYEES MORE CONSCIOUS OF THE NEED FOR HAVING PROTECTION," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE NEW REGULATION DIVIDES NOISE HAZARDS INTO THREE DIFFERENT ACTION LEVELS.
IT ALSO SPELLS OUT THE DUTIES OF PROPRIETORS AND EMPLOYEES AT THE RESPECTIVE ACTION LEVELS.
THE MAJOR REQUIREMENTS ARE:
* AT THE FIRST ACTION LEVEL, A PROPRIETOR HAS TO PROVIDE A SUITABLE APPROVED EAR PROTECTOR TO AN EMPLOYEE UPON REQUEST, EXCEPT WHERE THE WEARING OF EAR PROTECTORS WOULD BE LIKELY TO CAUSE A RISK TO THE SAFETY OF THE EMPLOYEE OR TO ANY OTHER PERSON;
* AT THE SECOND ACTION LEVEL OR ABOVE, OR AT THE PEAK ACTION LEVEL, PROPRIETORS MUST PROVIDE AND EMPLOYEES MUST WEAR APPROVED EAR PROTECTORS, AND THE AREA IN ANY INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKING THUS AFFECTED MUST BE DEMARCATED AS AN EAR PROTECTION ZONE; AND
* WHERE DEMARCATION IS IMPRACTICABLE, AS IN THE CASE OF A CONSTRUCTION SITE, ALL NOISY MACHINES MUST BE LABELLED. EMPLOYEES ATTENDING TO THESE NOISY MACHINES MUST WEAR SUITABLE APPROVED EAR PROTECTORS.
/"SIGNS AND .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
- 2
"SIGNS AND NOTICES SHOULD BE PUT UP IN PROMINENT POSITIONS TO INFORM WORKERS THAT THE AREA IN WHICH THEY WORK IS AN EAR PROTECTION ZONE AND THAT EMPLOYEES MUST WEAR SUITABLE APPROVED EAR PROTECTORS WHILE IN THE ZONE.
"CONTRAVENTION OF THE NEW REGULATION WILL INCUR A MAXIMUM PENALTY OF $30,000 FOR EMPLOYERS AND $10,000 FOR EMPLOYEES," HE ADDED.
ENQUIRIES ON THE NEW REGULATION CAN BE MADE ON TEL 606 5573 AND 606 5552.
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GOVT SEEKS INFORMATION ON ALLEGED SEA INCIDENT
*****
THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT IS SEEKING URGENT INFORMATION FROM CHINESE AUTHORITIES ABOUT REPORTS THAT A NORTH KOREAN CARGO VESSEL OUTSIDE HONG KONG WATERS IS SURROUNDED BY FOUR ARMED SHIPS AND IS UNDER FIRE.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE POLITICAL ADVISER’S OFFICE HAD BEEN IN TOUCH WITH THE NEW CHINA NEWS AGENCY WHICH HAD AGREED TO CONTACT GUANGDONG AUTHORITIES TO DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT CHINESE SECURITY FORCES WERE INVOLVED IN THE INCIDENT.
"BEFORE TAKING FURTHER ACTION, WE MUST BE SURE THAT THIS IS AN ACT OF PIRACY INVOLVING PRIVATE INDIVIDUALS," HE SAID.
THE MARINE RESCUE CO-ORDINATION CENTRE (MRCC) DISPATCHED A GOVERNMENT FLYING SERVICE HELICOPTER TO THE REPORTED LOCATION OF THE VESSEL "KO MAL SHAN" - ABOUT 52 MILES EAST-NORTH-EAST OF HONG KONG -THIS (WEDNESDAY) EVENING.
HOWEVER, A SEARCH OF THE AREA PROVED FRUITLESS AND THE HELICOPTER WAS RECALLED, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE SAID HONG KONG AUTHORITIES HAD HAD NO RADIO OR VISUAL CONTACT WITH THE NORTH KOREAN VESSEL. THE REPORTS OF THE ALLEGED INCIDENT HAD BEEN RELAYED BY THE LOCAL AGENTS FROM THE OWNERS IN NORTH KOREA.
THE FIRST REPORT THIS MORNING SAID THE VESSEL HAD BEEN INTERCEPTED ABOUT 8.8 NAUTICAL MILES EAST-SOUTH-EAST OF WAGLAN ISLAND (OUTSIDE HONG KONG WATERS) ABOUT 8 AM TODAY.
THE REPORT SAID AMRED MEN FROM A MOTOR BOAT TOOK CONTROL OF THE KO MAL SHAN AND DIRECTED HER TO PROCEED TO AN UNKNOWN DESTINATION.
THE SECOND REPORT FROM THE LOCAL AGENTS CAME LATE AFTERNOON, SAYING THE VESSEL WAS UNDER FIRE AND SURROUNDED BY FOUR SHIPS.
/"THE MRCC .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
- 3 -
"THE MRCC WAS ALERTED BECAUSE OF THE SHOOTING REPORT AND THE POSSIBILITY THAT THERE MIGHT BE CASUALTIES," SAID THE SPOKESMAN.
ACCORDING TO THE LOCAL AGENT, THE KO MAL SHAN HAS A GROSS REGISTERED TONNAGE (GRT) OF 2,226 AND HAS A CREW OF 36. SHE IS CARRYING NEW AND USED CARS AND OTHER GENERAL CARGO EN ROUTE FROM HONG KONG TO NORTH KOREA.
-----0------
STATEMENT ON DRIVERS’ STRIKE
*****
IN RESPONSE TO A STRIKE BY DRIVERS OF KOWLOON GREEN MINIBUS ROUTE 20 THIS (WEDNESDAY) MORNING, A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID:
"GMB ROUTES ARE INTRODUCED FROM TIME TO TIME TO SERVE DIFFERENT AREAS. DUE TO THE DENSE PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORK, IT IS INEVITABLE THAT ROUTEING OF NEW PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICE WILL OVERLAP WITH PART OF OTHER PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICE ALTHOUGH THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAD TRIED ITS BEST TO AVOID TOO MUCH OVERLAPPING.
"OPERATORS FOR GMB ROUTES ARE SELECTED BY THE GREEN MINIBUS OPERATORS SELECTION BOARD. THE BOARD COMPRISES A MEMBER OF THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE, AND THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION AMONGST REPRESENTATIVES FROM OTHER CONCERNED GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
"ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS ARE ASSESSED ON THEIR PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE, FINANCIAL RESOURCES, VEHICLE MANAGEMENT RIGHTS, VEHICLE MAINTENANCE RECORDS AND THE QUALITY OF THE VEHICLES TO BE DEPLOYED.
"UNSUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS CAN MAKE AN APPEAL WHICH WILL BE CONSIDERED BY THE SELECTION BOARD AGAIN TO ENSURE FAIRNESS.”
--------0-----------
MONITORING OF SCHOOL ACCOUNTS
******
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S DOLE IN MONITORING SCHOOL ACCOUNTS, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID: "PRIVATE SCHOOLS WHICH RECEIVE NO SUBSIDY FROM THE GOVERNMENT ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN ACCOUNTS."
"IN RESPECT OF AIDED SCHOOLS, PRESENT REGULATIONS AND THE CODES OF AID ARE EFFECTIVE ENOUGH IN MONITORING THE PROPER USE OF SCHOOL FUNDS.
"FOR OBVIOUS REASONS, IT WOULD NOT BE APPROPRIATE TO COMMENT FURTHER," HE SAID.
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/4 ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
4
MACAU WORKS SECRETARY VISITS HK
******
THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT AND PUBLIC WORKS OF MACAU, DR JOSE MACHADO TODAY (WEDNESDAY) PAID A VISIT TO HONG KONG IN RETURN FOR AN EARLIER VISIT TO MACAU BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON.
DURING THE VISIT, DR MACHADO WAS BRIEFED ON THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECTS CO-ORDINATION OFFICE, MR BILLY LAM.
HE THEN WENT ON A HELICOPTER TOUR OF THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION, CONTAINER PORT, BRIDGE LINKS TO LANTAU, THE CHEK LAP KOK AIRPORT SITE AND SOME OF THE NEW TOWNS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
HE WAS ACCOMPANIED ON THE TOUR BY THE SECRETARY FOR WORKS, MR JAMES BLAKE.
DR MACHADO WAS BRIEFED ON PLANNING AND LAND ADMINISTRATION MATTERS BY THE DIRECTOR OF PLANNING, DR K S PUN AND THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS MR ROBERT POPE RESPECTIVELY.
HE HAD A GENERAL DISCUSSION WITH MR EASON BEFORE HE LEFT IN THE AFTERNOON.
MR EASON SAID: ’’THE VISIT IS PART OF A REGULAR EXCHANGE BETWEEN THE TWO SIDES ON MATTERS OF MUTUAL INTEREST. IT ENABLES US TO UPDATE OURSELVES ON PLANNING STRATEGIES AND NEW DEVELOPMENTS ON EACH SIDE”.
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READING SCHEME TO COVER PRIMARY SCHOOLS
*****
THE ENGLISH EXTENSIVE READING SCHEME FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS WILL SOON BE EXPANDED TO COVER THOSE AT THE UPPER PRIMARY LEVEL.
INCLUDED ALSO WILL BE A CHINESE READING SCHEME TO FOSTER GOOD READING HABITS IN BOTH CHINESE AND ENGLISH AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS, THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (INSTITUTE OF LANGUAGE IN EDUCATION), DR JOHN CLARK, SAID.
SPEAKING AT THE PRIZE-PRESENTATION CEREMONY OF THE EXTENSIVE READING SCHEME, DR CLARK SAID THE SCHEME TO ENCOURAGE SECONDARY 1 STUDENTS TO READ ENGLISH BEGAN IN 1991 IN 19 SCHOOLS.
’’THE SCHEME NOW INCLUDES 49 SCHOOLS AND BOTH SECONDARY 1 AND 2 STUDENTS. IT WILL EXPAND FURTHER AND BY THIS SEPTEMBER, 79 SCHOOLS, OR ABOUT ONE-FIFTH OF THE PUBLIC-SECTOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN HONG KONG, WILL BE PARTICIPATING,” HE ADDED.
/REPORTING ON .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
- 5 -
REPORTING ON THIS YEAR’S COMPETITION, SENIOR LECTURER OF THE INSTITUTE OF LANGUAGE IN EDUCATION, MRS VIVIENNE YU, SAID THE WINNERS HAD WRITTEN REPORTS ON SUCH CLASSICS AS ’’FRANKENSTEIN" AND "THE SECRET GARDEN".
OTHER FAVOURITES WERE "REAR WINDOW" AND "THE ELVIS MYSTERY", SHE SAID.
"THERE WAS ALSO AN INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF BOOKS READ BY THE BEST READERS - SIX OF THEM WHO ARE SECONDARY 1 STUDENTS HAD READ OVER 100 BOOKS AND MANY OTHERS HAD READ 80 OR 90," MRS YU SAID.
SHE POINTED OUT THAT THE SCHEME WAS ABLE TO HELP MANY STUDENTS DEVELOP A READING HABIT BECAUSE IT WAS INCORPORATED INTO THE CURRICULUM.
"THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT PROVIDES THE SCHOOLS WITH BOOKS AT EIGHT READING LEVELS SO THAT STUDENTS CAN CHOOSE THOSE THAT SUIT THEIR OWN READING LEVEL AND INTEREST," SHE EXPLAINED.
MRS YU ADDED THAT STUDENTS WERE GIVEN TWO TO THREE PERIODS A WEEK TO READ IN CLASS AND DISCUSS THE BOOKS WITH THEIR TEACHERS AND THAT WITH THIS ENCOURAGEMENT AND SUPPORT, MANY STUDENTS WERE ABLE TO DEVELOP CONFIDENCE AND INTEREST IN READING ENGLISH BOOKS.
IN ADDITION, THE SCHEME VASTLY INCREASED THE STUDENTS’ EXPOSURE TO ENGLISH AND HELPED THEM BECOME AT HOME IN ENGLISH, SHE SAID.
MORE THAN 13,000 STUDENTS FROM 49 SCHOOLS TOOK PART IN THE 1992 SCHOOL YEAR SCHEME, WITH 350 TEACHERS GIVING HELP.
PRIZES WERE SPONSORED BY THE ZONTA CLUB OF HONG KONG EAST AND WERE PRESENTED TO THE WINNERS BY ITS PRESIDENT, DR CISSY YU, AND DR CLARK.
BEFORE PRESENTING THE PRIZES, DR YU SAID THE CLUB ALWAYS HAD CONCERN FOR THE FUTURE OF THE COMMUNITY AND THAT IT HAD FOUND THE SCHEME AN EFFECTIVE PROJECT NOT ONLY IN IMPROVING THE STANDARD OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE, BUT ALSO IN BROADENING THEIR KNOWLEDGE AND PERSPECTIVES.
FRESH WATER CUT IN TSIM SHA TSUI
* * * * *
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN TSIM SHA TSUI WILL GO OFF FROM 11 PM ON FRIDAY (JULY 16) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE PREMISES AT CHATHAM ROAD SOUTH, MODY ROAD, MINDEN AVENUE AND HANOT ROAD.
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/6 ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
- 6
FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETS ON FRIDAY * * * * *
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A MEETING AT 2.30 PM ON FRIDAY (JULY 16) AT 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.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING.
ADVANCE COPIES OF THE PAPERS FOR THE MEETING WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM 2.30 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE PRESS ROOM OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BUILDING, JACKSON ROAD, CENTRAL. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PAPERS ARE NOT FOR USE UNTIL THE MEETING IS OVER.
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ***** $ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,980
REVERSAL OF LAF + 820
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,800
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -873
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,927
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TW1 112.8 *-0.2* 14.7.93
/HONG KONG .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.37 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.56 3.88
1 MONTH 2.70 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.79 4.05
3 MONTHS 3.16 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.88 4.21
6 MONTHS 3.38 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.92 4.41
12 MONTHS 3.78 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 32,406 MN
CLOSED 14 JULY 1993
- - 0---------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUPPLEMENT
WEDNESDAY. JULY 14, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE, COUNCIL:
MOTION DEBATE ON EXCO AND LEGCO RELATIONS ........................ ]
SCA IN HUMAN RIGHTS DEBATE ....................................... 3
BALANCE SHEET OF EXCHANGE FUND PUBLISHED ......................... 8
HEALTH CONSULTATION DOCUMENT OFFERS SAFETY NET AND MORF CHOICE ......................................................... 8
AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRES BILL PASSED .............................. 11
CENSORSHIP OF FILMS, VIDEOTAPES AND LASERDISCS UNDER ONE ROOF 12
CRIMINAL PROCEDURE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 INTRODUCED ............. 14
TIGHT CONTROL OF LEVERAGED FOREIGN EXCHANGE CONTRACTS ........... 16
FEES TO COMPANIES REGISTRAR REVISED ............................. 17
PUBLIC HELP A KEY FACTOR IN CRIME-FIGHTING ...................... 17
MORE INFIRMARY BEDS FOR ELDERLY ................................. 18
NEW MEASURES TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW TN KWAI CHUNG .............. 19
NURSES TRAINING SCHOOLS TO BE EXPANDED .......................... 19
STEPS TAKEN TO AVOID MISTAKES TN FUTURE JURY TRIALS ............. 21
NO PLANS TO REVIEW PLOT RATTO SYSTEM ............................ 22
STANDARDISING FEF STRUCTURE IN PUBIC HOSPITALS PROPOSED ......... 22
DISQUALIFICATION RULE TO STAY ................................... 23
/NO VISA .......
NO VISA REQUIREMENT FOR SHORT-TERM VISITORS FROM CHINA .......
TRAINING COURSES FOR ENGLISH TEACHERS ........................
GOVT ALL OUT TO SOLVE CROSS-BORDER CONGESTION
FACTORS TO AFFECT WATER CHARGES ..............................
NO EXEMPTED MEDICAL PRACTITIONER PROSECUTED TN PAST THREE YEARS ..................................................
LAND RESERVED IN TUEN MUN FOR CHEMICAL INDUSTRY ..............
HEART VALVE PATIENTS PROPERLY TREATED ........................
NEW SCHEME TO HELP TEXTILES TRADE ............................
FEW CHINESE TRANSITEES OVERSTAY IN HK ........................
NEW TRAFFIC CONTROL STATION FOR MA WAN CHANNEL STAY EXTENSION CRITERIA FOR VISITORS ARE ADEQUATE
MEASURES TO PREVENT FALSE RESIDENCE BID ......................
LEGCO PASSES MOTION TO ENHANCE LEGISLATORE/EXECUTIVE LINKS
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
1
MOTION DEBATE ON EXCO AND LEGCO RELATIONS
*****
THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THE SPEECH BY THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, IN THE MOTION DEBATE ON WORKING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE EXECUTIVE AND THE LEGISLATURE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TONIGHT:
MR PRESIDENT,
I AM GRATEFUL TO THE HONOURABLE VINCENT CHENG FOR INTRODUCING A MOTION DEBATE TODAY ON THIS IMPORTANT SUBJECT WHICH BEARS ON THE SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT IN HONG KONG. I CAN SAY UP-FRONT THAT MY EX-OFFICIO COLLEAGUES WILL VOTE IN SUPPORT OF THE MOTION.
LET ME BEGIN BY STATING WHAT THE GOVERNMENT’S GUIDING PRINCIPLE IS. IN THE WORDS OF THE GOVERNOR, WHEN HE ADDRESSED THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN OCTOBER LAST, OUR INTENTION IS "TO ENSURE THAT WE HAVE VIGOROUS AND EFFECTIVE EXECUTIVE-LED GOVERNMENT THAT IS PROPERLY ACCOUNTABLE TO THIS LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL”. TO ACHIEVE THAT OBJECTIVE, THE FOLLOWING CHANGES HAVE TAKEN PLACE IN THE CURRENT LEGCO SESSION:
FIRST, WE HAVE SEPARATED THE NON-OFFICIAL MEMBERSHIP OF THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS, SO AS TO ALLOW BOTH COUNCILS TO PLAY THEIR PROPER ROLES. AT THE TIME, WE ENVISAGED THAT WITHIN THIS COUNCIL, POLITICAL PARTIES AND GROUPS COULD BE FREE TO DEVELOP THEIR PROGRAMMES AND PLATFORMS, WITHOUT THE CONSTRAINTS THAT MEMBERSHIP OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL WOULD IMPOSE.
THAT, AS EVERYONE NOW KNOWS, HAS HAPPENED. WE HAVE SEEN, 'OVER THE LAST YEAR, THE FORMATION OF A SUBSTANTIAL POLITICAL PARTY, AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF OTHER POLITICAL GROUPS IN THIS COUNCIL. THAT HAS INDEED MADE THE DEBATES OF THIS COUNCIL A MUCH LIVELIER AFFAIR. AND, ON THE WHOLE, THIS COUNCIL HAS FULFILLED ITS ROLE AS AN EFFECTIVE FORUM FOR THE EXPRESSION OF THE WISHES OF THE COMMUNITY.
SECONDLY, THIS COUNCIL NOW HAS ITS OWN ELECTED PRESIDENT, AND THIS ENABLED THE GOVERNOR TO BE ANSWERABLE TO THIS COUNCIL AS THE HEAD OF GOVERNMENT. INDEED THE GOVERNOR HAS DONE SO THROUGH HIS QUESTION AND ANSWER SESSIONS WITH THIS COUNCIL, OF WHICH THERE WERE 8 IN THE PAST YEAR, AND THE 9TH WOULD TAKE PLACE TOMORROW. THE GOVERNOR HAVE ALSO HAD MANY MEETINGS WITH MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL, INDIVIDUALLY AND IN GROUPS. FURTHERMORE, SENIOR OFFICIALS, INCLUDING THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY AND THE ATTORNEY GENERAL HAVE GIVEN MANY BRIEFING SESSIONS TO MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL AND POLICY SECRETARIES KEEP IN REGULAR AND CLOSE TOUCH WITH MEMBERS OF THE RELEVANT LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL PANELS. THESE CONSULTATIONS AND BRIEFINGS ARE FAR FROM BEING SUPERFICIAL AS ONE MEMBER CLAIMED. FOR EXAMPLE, THE CONSULTATIONS CARRIED OUT BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY PRIOR TO THE LAST BUDGET WAS RECOGNISED BY MANY MEMBERS AS GENUINE CONSULTATION WHICH SIGNIFICANTLY AFFECTED THE CONTENT OF THE BUDGET.
/THIRDLY, THIS ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
2
THIRDLY, THIS COUNCIL HAS IN TURN TAKEN DECISIONS ON HOW IT RUNS ITS OWN AFFAIRS. IT HAS, FOR EXAMPLE, INSTITUTED A SERIES OF REFORMS TO ITS PROCEDURES AND COMMITTEE STRUCTURE. AND I BELIEVE YOU ARE WELL ON THE WAY TO ESTABLISHING YOUR OWN SECRETARIAT SUPPORT IN A PROPER, STATUTORY FOOTING.
ALL THESE DEVELOPMENTS ARE WELL WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF HONG KONG’S GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE MAPPED OUT IN THE PRESENT CONSTITUTIONAL DOCUMENTS, I.E. THE LETTERS PATENT AND ROYAL INSTRUCTIONS, AND THE FUTURE CONSTITUTION OF THE HONG KONG SAR, I.E. THE BASIC LAW. THEY ARE HEALTHY DEVELOPMENTS. SOME MEMBERS HAVE SPOKEN ABOUT DEVELOPING FURTHER TOWARDS A "MINISTERIAL" OR "QUASI-MINISTERIAL" SYSTEM OF SOME SORT EITHER NOW OR AFTER 1997. I SHOULD JUST POINT OUT THAT SUCH A SYSTEM IS NOT ENVISAGED IN THE CURRENT CONSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS OR, AS FAR AS I KNOW, IN THE BASIC LAW. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE SHOULD BUILD ON WHAT HAS PROVED TO WORK WELL, RATHER THAN DISCARD IT ALL FOR SOME IMPORTED SYSTEM THE SUITABILITY OF WHICH FOR HONG KONG IS UNTESTED.
SO, ON THE WHOLE, I BELIEVE THAT THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE EXECUTIVE AND THE LEGISLATURE IS DEVELOPING ALONG A PATH THAT MEETS OUR OBJECTIVE. BUT EQUALLY CLEARLY, THERE SHOULD BE STEPS THAT COULD BE TAKEN TO OIL THE MACHINERY AND TO MAKE IT WORK SMOOTHER. ONE PROPOSAL THAT WAS MADE BY THE GOVERNOR IN HIS LEGCO ADDRESS WAS TO ESTABLISH A GOVERNMENT-LEGCO COMMITTEE, WHERE THE ADMINISTRATION CAN DISCUSS WITH MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL THE HANDLING OF THE ADMINISTRATION’S LEGISLATIVE AND FINANCIAL PROGRAMMES. WE HAVE NOT YET ESTABLISHED SUCH A COMMITTEE BUT, IF MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL AND I DO RECOGNISE THAT THERE ARE DIFFERENT VIEWS WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS PROPOSAL FURTHER FORWARD, WE ON OUR PART WOULD BE PERFECTLY HAPPY TO COOPERATE.
SOME MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL HAVE ALLEGED THAT THERE IS SOMEHOW A COMMUNICATION GAP BETWEEN THIS COUNCIL AND THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL WHEN THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL TAKES A VIEW ON CERTAIN POLICY ISSUES WHICH IS DIFFERENT FROM THEIRS. I HAVE TO SAY THAT THEY HAVE MISUNDERSTOOD THE RESPECTIVE ROLES OF THESE TWO COUNCILS. IT IS FOR THE GOVERNOR, ON THE ADVICE OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, TO TAKE DECISIONS ON POLICIES, AND ON THE INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION AND FINANCIAL PROPOSALS TO THIS COUNCIL. IT IS THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL’S ROLE TO DEBATE THESE POLICY DECISIONS, AND TO DECIDE ON WHETHER THE LEGISLATIVE AND FINANCIAL PROPOSALS SHOULD BE APPROVED. IN AN IDEAL WORLD EVERYONE WOULD SEE EYE TO EYE ON EVERYTHING AND AGREE WITH EACH OTHER. BUT WE DON’T LIVE IN AN IDEAL WORLD : MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL, FOR EXAMPLE, DO NOT ALWAYS SEE EYE TO EYE WITH EACH OTHER. IN A PLURALISTIC SOCIETY LIKE OURS THAT IS BOUND TO HAPPEN; IN AN OPEN SOCIETY LIKES OURS THAT HAPPENS PUBLICLY.
/THERE ARE .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
3
THERE ARE MANY INFORMAL CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION BETWEEN MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. AND, TODAY, SOME MEMBERS SUGGESTED THAT WE SHOULD ALSO HAVE FORMAL CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION BETWEEN MEMBERS OF THE TWO COUNCILS. NO DOUBT THEY WOULD RECALL THAT THE FORMER OMELCO MEETING SYSTEM WAS ABOLISHED AT THE SUGGESTION OF SOME MEMBERS AT THE TIME. BUT IF MEMBERS NOW WISH, WE WOULD CERTAINLY LOOK AT SOME SIMILAR ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE FUTURE. I CAN ASSURE HONOURABLE MEMBERS THAT THEIR VIEWS ARE FULLY TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT WHEN DECISIONS ARE TAKEN IN EXECUTIVE COUNCIL. BUT SO LONG AS THE TWO COUNCILS WITH OR WITHOUT DUAL MEMBERSHIP ARE SEPARATE AND PLAY DIFFERENT ROLES, NO ONE SHOULD BE SURPRISED IF OCCASIONALLY THERE ARE DISAGREEMENTS.
THAT SAID, I AND MY COLLEAGUES IN THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL ARE FULLY ALIVE TO THE NEED TO PROMOTE AN EFFECTIVE WORKING RELATIONSHIP WITH THIS COUNCIL. MANY MEMBERS HAVE, IN TODAY’S DEBATE, MADE THOUGHT-PROVOKING SUGGESTIONS. I ASSURE YOU THAT WE WILL EXAMINE THESE SUGGESTIONS SERIOUSLY, AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING TOGETHER WITH THIS COUNCIL TO MOVE AHEAD.
THANK YOU, MR PRESIDENT.
- - 0 - -
SCA IN HUMAN RIGHTS DEBATE
* « « * «
THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THE SPEECH BY SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, AT THE MOTION DEBATE ON HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TONIGHT:
MR PRESIDENT,
I WISH TO THANK MEMBERS FOR THEIR VIEWS, SO ELOQUENTLY EXPRESSED. IT IS CLEAR THAT MOST MEMBERS WHO HAVE SPOKEN ARE STRONGLY IN SUPPORT OF THE IDEA OF SETTING UP A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION TO HELP PROMOTE AND PROTECT HUMAN RIGHTS BY VARIOUS MEASURES, INCLUDING:
(A) PUBLIC EDUCATION;
(B) EVALUATION OF LAWS AND POLICIES;
(C) MONITORING OF GOVERNMENT ACTIONS AND PRACTICES; AND
(D) RESOLVING DISPUTES THROUGH RECONCILIATION OR ADJUDICATION.
/THE GOVERNMENT
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
4
THE GOVERNMENT APPRECIATES AND RESPECTS THESE VIEWS, BUT WE DO NOT THINK THAT THERE IS A SUFFICIENTLY STRONG CASE FOR THE SETTING UP OF A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION IN ORDER TO PERFORM THESE FUNCTIONS. THIS IS NOT TO SAY THAT THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT FULLY SUBSCRIBE TO THE IMPLEMENTATION AND PROMOTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS IN HONG KONG. NOR ARE WE AFFECTED IN OUR THINKING BY NON-HONG KONG FACTORS AS ONE MEMBER SUGGESTED. OUR RECORD ON STANDING UP FOR HONG KONG AND WHAT IS RIGHT FOR HONG KONG HAS BEEN FULLY DEMONSTRATED SINCE OCTOBER LAST YEAR. INDEED SINCE THE ENACTMENT OF THE BILL OF RIGHTS ORDINANCE, THE GOVERNMENT HAS TRIED TO MEET THE DEMANDS ARISING FROM ITS APPLICATION THROUGH A NUMBER OF CHANNELS. IN SOME CASES, BECAUSE OF COMPETING PRIORITIES, WE MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO PROCEED AS FAST AS WE WOULD WISH. NEVERTHELESS, THE MACHINERY IS ALREADY THERE, AS MY FOLLOWING REMARKS ON EACH OF THE PROPOSED FUNCTIONS WILL SHOW.
PUBLIC EDUCATION
ON HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION, A HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION SUBCOMMITTEE WAS SET UP UNDER THE COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION IN MAY 1992 TO PROMOTE PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF HUMAN RIGHTS. THIS IS ENTIRELY LOGICAL. HUMAN RIGHTS IS PART OF CIVIC EDUCATION AND I MAKE NO APOLOGIES FOR PUTTING THIS UNDER THE AMBIT OF THE CIVIC RIGHTS EDUCATION.
DESPITE DOUBTS CAST BY SOME MEMBERS ON ITS EFFECTIVENESS, I AM GLAD TO REPORT THAT IN THE FOURTEEN MONTHS OR SO SINCE ITS COMING INTO OPERATION, THE SUB-COMMITTEE HAS BEEN VERY ACTIVE. IT HAS ORGANISED A NUMBER OF PROJECTS, VERY SUCCESSFUL ONES INCLUDING A COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION SCHEME, "INFOLINE” MESSAGES, RADIO PROGRAMMES AND A LARGE-SCALE EXHIBITION ON HUMAN RIGHTS. IT ATTEMPTS TO EDUCATE AND TO INTEREST THE MEN-IN-THE-STREET ON THEIR HUMAN RIGHTS. I DON’T THINK THAT OUR PRIORITIES ARE THE TAIPANS OF HONG KONG. THEY SHOULD KNOW BETTER. MORE ARE BEING PLANNED FOR THE COMING MONTHS, FOR EXAMPLE, THE PRODUCTION OF TEACHING KIT FOR EDUCATORS AND YOUNG PEOPLE, AS WELL AS SEMINARS FOR PROMOTING ITS USE. MEETINGS WITH SCHOOLHEADS TO PROMOTE HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION IN THE SCHOOL SETTING WILL ALSO BE HELD. I WOULD, MR PRESIDENT, LIKE TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO EXPRESS THE GOVERNMENT’S SINCERE APPRECIATION TO THE COMMITTEE FOR ALL ITS HARD WORK. THOUGH NOT ALWAYS APPRECIATED.
IN ADDITION, THE GOVERNMENT HAS PUBLISHED INTRODUCTORY BOOKLETS ON THE BILL OF RIGHTS TO HELP THE PUBLIC UNDERSTAND THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE ORDINANCE.
/EVALUATION OF .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
- 5 -
EVALUATION OF LAWS AND POLICIES
CONCERNING THE EVALUATION OF LAWS, MANY MEMBERS ARE WELL AWARE THAT THE GOVERNMENT IS CONDUCTING AN ON-GOING REVIEW OF LEGISLATION IN THE LIGHT OF THE BILL OF RIGHTS. SINCE THE ENACTMENT OF THE BILL OF RIGHTS IN JUNE 1991, TWELVE AMENDMENT BILLS HAVE ALREADY BEEN ENACTED TO BRING EXISTING LEGISLATION INTO LINE WITH THE BOR. ONE FURTHER AMENDING BILL, NAMELY, THE INLAND REVENUE (AMENDMENT) BILL, IS EXPECTED TO HAVE ITS THIRD READING NEXT WEDNESDAY 21 JULY. WE SHALL BE COMPLETING OUR PREPARATIONS FOR AMENDING THE PUBLIC ORDER ORDINANCE IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF WEEKS AND WILL INTRODUCE AMENDMENTS TO IT EARLY IN THE NEXT LEGISLATIVE SESSION. THE SUMMARY OFFENCES ORDINANCE WILL BE AMENDED ALONG WITH THE PUBLIC ORDER ORDINANCE. THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL WILL ALSO BE ASKED TO AMEND THE PRISON RULES AND MENTAL HEALTH REGULATIONS IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS. THREE OTHER AMENDING BILLS ARE EXPECTED TO BE INTRODUCED INTO THIS COUNCIL IN 1993-94.
IN THE CONTEXT OF THE SEPARATE BUT RELATED REVIEW OF LAWS WHICH MIGHT AFFECT PRESS FREEDOM, THE GOVERNMENT HAS ALSO IDENTIFIED A NUMBER OF LEGISLATIVE PROVISIONS WHICH ARE EITHER OBSOLETE OR WHICH SEEM AT ODDS WITH THE BOR. THESE WILL BE REPEALED OR AMENDED AS SOON AS THE LEGISLATIVE PROGRAMME ALLOWS.
WE APPRECIATE MEMBERS’ WISH TO SEE A FASTER PACE OF REVIEW AND AMENDMENT OF LEGISLATION. BUT ONLY THE COURTS CAN DETERMINE WHETHER A PARTICULAR PROVISION IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE BOR. UNLESS THERE IS A CLEAR CASE OF INCONSISTENCY WE WOULD NOT WANT TO PRE-EMPT THE COURTS BY JUMPING TO CONCLUSION. THE NEED FOR CAUTION IS MADE MORE EVIDENT BY THE FACT THAT HUMAN RIGHTS LAW IN HONG KONG IS NEW AND DEVELOPING. THE PRIVY COUNCIL HAS URGED THAT BOR ISSUES BE APPROACHED WITH REALISM AND GOOD SENSE AND BE KEPT IN PROPORTION, OR THE BILL MIGHT BECOME A SOURCE OF INJUSTICE RATHER THAN JUSTICE. THE REVIEW OF LEGISLATION IS AIMED AT FINDING THAT BALANCE. SUCH A DELICATE TASK DOES NOT LEND ITSELF TO EXCESSIVE HASTE. BESIDES, THE LEGISLATIVE PROGRAMME CAN ONLY TAKE ON SO MUCH EVERY YEAR. EXAMINING CORRESPONDING POLICIES AND THE NEED FOR OPERATIONAL CHANGES CAN ALSO BE TIME-CONSUMING.
THIS BRINGS ME TO THE QUESTION OF MEMBERS’ SUGGESTION THAT A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION SHOULD ALSO PERFORM THE FUNCTION OF EVALUATION OF POLICIES. MY RESPONSE TO THAT IS THAT, WHILE OUTSIDE BODIES ARE NOT PREVENTED FROM EVALUATING GOVERNMENT POLICIES - INDEED, WE ALREADY HAVE A NETWORK OF ADVISORY BODIES TO ADVISE THE GOVERNMENT ON POLICIES, E.G. THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION - THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR REVIEWING AND INTRODUCING ANY CHANGES TO SUCH POLICIES ULTIMATELY RESTS WITH THE GOVERNMENT. WE DO CONSTANTLY REVIEW OUR POLICIES, INCLUDING THOSE HAVING AN IMPACT ON HUMAN RIGHTS, AND ARE PUBLICLY ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEM. THE 'CHECKS AND BALANCES’ ARE PROVIDED BY THIS COUNCIL.
/MONITORING GOVERNMENT .....
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
6
MONITORING GOVERNMENT ACTIONS AND PRACTICES
THE SAME APPLIES TO THE MONITORING OF GOVERNMENT ACTIONS AND PRACTICES, EXCEPT THAT IN THIS CASE, AN ADDITIONAL SAFEGUARD IS THAT, WHERE THE GOVERNMENT HAS BY ITS ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION ALLEGEDLY BREACHED THE BOR, THE OFFENDED INDIVIDUAL COULD SEEK LEGAL REMEDIES THROUGH THE COURTS. APART FROM THAT, THE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS IS EMPOWERED TO INVESTIGATE COMPLAINTS THAT FALL WITHIN HIS REMIT IN RELATION TO ALLEGED MALADMINISTRATION. "MALADMINISTRATION" COVERS ABUSE OF POWER INCLUDING ANY ACTION WHICH IS UNREASONABLE, UNJUST, OPPRESSIVE OR IMPROPERLY DISCRIMINATORY. IT WOULD INCLUDE ADMINISTRATIVE ACTS WHICH MAY HAVE BOR IMPLICATIONS. IN THIS CONNECTION, MEMBERS WILL PROBABLY BE AWARE OF THE VARIOUS LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS TO STRENGTHEN THE COMAC REDRESS SYSTEM WHICH WILL BE INTRODUCED INTO THIS COUNCIL NEXT WEDNESDAY. ONE OF THE PROPOSALS WILL MAKE THE COMAC MORE ACCESSIBLE TO THE PUBLIC.
THERE ARE OTHER EXISTING AVENUES FOR REDRESSING GRIEVANCES ARISING FROM HUMAN RIGHTS INFRINGEMENTS CONCERNING SPECIFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES SUCH AS THE POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE AND ICAC COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE.
RESOLVING DISPUTES THROUGH RECONCILIATION OR ADJUDICATION
WF. HAVE RESERVATIONS ABOUT A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION’S ROLE IN DISPUTE RESOLUTION, AT LEAST IN THE HONG KONG CONTEXT.
RECONCILIATION, A LESS FORMAL WAY OF RESOLVING DISPUTES, IS EXPEDIENT FOR DEALING WITH ACTIONS BETWEEN PRIVATE PARTIES - AN AREA EXCLUDED FROM THE BOR ORDINANCE. FULL-FLEDGED JUDICIAL INTERVENTION, ON THE OTHER HAND, IS OFTEN WARRANTED IN A CASE OF ALLEGED GOVERNMENT BREACH, FOR THE CHANCES ARE THAT THE BREACH HAS A GREATER IMPACT ON THE INDIVIDUAL. IN FACT, MOST BOR DISPUTES HAVE HITHERTO ARISEN FROM CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS. IT IS HARD TO IMAGINE THESE DISPUTES BEING DEALT WITH BY A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION.
THERE ARE OTHER RAMIFICATIONS. IN HONG KONG, BOR DISPUTES ESSENTIALLY CONCERN QUESTIONS OF LAW AND STATUTORY INTERPRETATION. UNLESS A COMMISSION’S LEGAL RULING IS FINAL, IN WHICH CASE THE COMMISSION WILL ASSUME A LAW-MAKING ROLE, THE COURTS WILL REMAIN THE FORUM OF LAST RESORT. IF THE COURTS DO REMAIN THE FORUM OF LAST RESORT, AND MOST COMMISSION CASES END UP IN THE COURTS, THE ROLE OF THE COMMISSION AS A SEPARATE ADJUDICATING BODY WILL BE THROWN IN DOUBT. IF, ON THE OTHER HAND, MOST CASES GO NO FURTHER THAN THE COMMISSION, DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL JURISPRUDENCE WILL BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED, AT LEAST IN THE EARLY STAGES.
OTHER DIFFICULTIES INCLUDE DEFINING THE COMMISSION’S POWERS AND STAFFING IT WITH THE RIGHT CANDIDATES. ALL THESE STRENGTHEN OUR BELIEF THAT BOR DISPUTES ARE BEST RESOLVED THROUGH THE JUDICIAL PROCESS. AND I HAVE TO SAY, THEY ARE BEING DONE VERY ACTIVELY BY THE COURTS.
/THERE IS .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
7
THERE IS CONCERN THAT SOME BOR POINTS ARE NOT PURSUED IN COURTS BECAUSE OF THE PROHIBITIVE LEGAL COSTS INVOLVED. THE INTERDEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP ON LEGAL AID POLICY REVIEW HAS ADDRESSED THIS POINT IN THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON LEGAL AID WHICH IS AT PRESENT GOING THROUGH THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS. THE WORKING GROUP’S PRELIMINARY VIEW IS THAT THE EXISTING SCOPE OF CIVIL LEGAL AID IS BROAD ENOUGH TO COVER CASES INVOLVING CHALLENGES ON BOR GROUNDS. IN CRIMINAL CASES, THE DIRECTOR OF LEGAL AID HAS THE DISCRETION TO PROVIDE LEGAL AID IN SUCH CASES IN THE INTERESTS OF JUSTICE EVEN IF THE APPLICANT FAILS THE MEANS TEST.
THIS DISCRETION OF THE DIRECTOR, COUPLED WITH THE EXPANSION OF THE DUTY LAWYER SCHEME SINCE 1991, ALSO MEANS THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAS FULLY MET ITS OBLIGATION UNDER ARTICLE 11(2)(D) OF THE BILL OF RIGHTS ORDINANCE. THAT ARTICLE PROVIDES THAT LEGAL ASSISTANCE SHOULD BE PROVIDED TO ANY PERSON CHARGED WITH A CRIMINAL OFFENCE ’’WHERE THE INTERESTS OF JUSTICE SO REQUIRE AND WITHOUT PAYMENT BY HIM IN SUCH CASES IF HE DOES NOT HAVE SUFFICIENT MEANS TO PAY FOR IT”.
MANY MEMBERS TODAY SUGGESTED PROBLEM AREAS WHICH A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MIGHT SOMEHOW BE ABLE TO DEAL WITH, BETTER, EASIER OR MORE SPEEDILY. I HOPE WHAT I HAVE SAID EARLIER DEMONSTRATED THAT A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION IS NOT A PANACEA. INCIDENTALLY, ONE OF THESE PROBLEM CASES MENTIONED BY MR K K FUNG IS EVIDENTLY NOT ONE WHICH IS IGNORED BY THE GOVERNMENT. MR FUNG HIGHLIGHTED SOME OF THE MORE OBVIOUS DEFICIENCIES OF CORPORATE VOTING IN THE FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES. I HAVE TO REMIND MR FUNG THAT THIS IS ONE PROBLEM AREA WHICH IS ACKNOWLEDGED BY THE GOVERNMENT AND WE ARE SET OUT TO RECTIFY IN OUR PROPOSALS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENTS.
CONCLUSION
MR PRESIDENT, WHILE WE APPRECIATE MEMBERS’ PREFERENCE FOR MORE TO BE DONE ON THE HUMAN RIGHTS FRONT, INCLUDING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION, WE HAVE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT HONG KONG DOES HAVE A GOOD HUMAN RIGHTS RECORD, COMPARABLE TO THE BEST IN ASIA. OUR CITIZENS WILL AGREE, I THINK, THAT WE ARE A FREE SOCIETY. I AM NOT SAYING THAT WE SHOULD BE COMPLACENT, BUT MEMBERS SHOULD ACCEPT THAT A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION IS NOT ESSENTIAL FOR THE PERFORMANCE OF THE FUNCTIONS ENVISAGED BY MEMBERS, AND IT HAS INDEED ITS DRAWBACKS. WE DO NOT SEE A STRONG CASE FOR SETTING UP A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION AT THIS TIME, BUT OBVIOUSLY WE ALWAYS KEEP AN OPEN MIND AND WOULD LOOK AT IT AGAIN IF AND WHEN FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS SO WARRANT. ACCORDINGLY, THE OFFICIAL MEMBERS WILL ABSTAIN FROM VOTING IN THIS MOTION.
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/8 ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
8
BALANCE SHEET OF EXCHANGE FUND PUBLISHED
******
FINANCIAL SECRETARY THE HON HAM1SH MACLEOD, IN A STATEMENT TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), TABLED THE BALANCE SHEET OF THE EXCHANGE FUND SHOWING THE POSITION AS AT THE END OF 1992.
THIS IS IN KEEPING WITH HIS COMMITMENT MADE IN JULY LAST YEAR TO PUBLISH EVERY YEAR THE EXCHANGE FUND BALANCE SHEET.
AT THE END OF 1992, THE EXCHANGE FUND STOOD AT HK$287 BILLION, UP 22 PER CENT FROM HK$236 BILLION AT THE END OF 1991. MORE THAN 95 PER CENT OF THE FUND WAS IN FOREIGN CURRENCY ASSETS.
THE ACCUMULATED EARNINGS OF THE FUND AT THE END OF 1992 WAS HK$107 BILLION, COMPARED TO HK$99 BILLION AT THE END OF 1991.
"AT US$35 BILLION, OUR FOREIGN CURRENCY HOLDINGS WERE THE 10TH HIGHEST IN THE WORLD, COMPARED WITH A RANKING OF 12TH AT THE END OF 1991," MR MACLEOD SAID.
"OUR PER CAPITA FOREIGN CURRENCY HOLDINGS STOOD AT US$6,000, COMPARED WITH US$5,000 AT THE END OF 1991. THE CORRESPONDING AVERAGE FOR THE OECD COUNTRIES HAS, AS A MATTER OF INTEREST, FALLEN FROM US$740 AT THE END OF 1991 TO US$700 AT THE END OF 1992," HE ADDED.
IN FUTURE, THE YEAR-END BALANCE SHEET OF THE FUND WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY WHICH WAS ESTABLISHED ON APRIL 1 AND THE ANNUAL REPORT WILL BE TABLED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
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HEALTH CONSULTATION DOCUMENT OFFERS SAFETY NET AND MORE CHOICE *****
THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, REASSURED THE PUBLIC THAT THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT "TOWARDS BETTER HEALTH" PUBLISHED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WAS NOT A DOCUMENT ABOUT FEB INCREASES.
IN FACT, IT SEEKS TO REMOVE REMEDIABLE FLAWS IN THE EXISTING HEALTH CARE SYSTEM IN HONG KONG, RATIONALISE THE FINANCIAL STRUCTURE OF PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES AND OFFERS POSSIBLE OPTIONS FOR CHANGE FOR THE BETTER.
AS CLEARLY STATED IN THE DOCUMENT, SHE SAID, THE GOVERNMENT’S OBJECTIVES WERE:
* TO ENSURE THAT THE EXISTING POLICY THAT NO ONE SHOULD BE DENIED ADEQUATE MEDICAL TREATMENT THROUGH LACK OF MEANS REMAINED PARAMOUNT;
♦ TO ENSURE INCREASED ACCESSIBILITY, THAT IS, REDUCING WAITING
TIME, BETTER SERVICES AND MORE CHOICE, SIMPLER ADMINISTRATION AND IMPROVED EFFICIENCY; AND
/*TO ENSURE
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
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* TO ENSURE THAT A BALANCE WAS STRUCK BETWEEN THE PROVISION OF SERVICES AND THE LEVEL OF SUBSIDY FOR THESE SERVICES.
MRS WONG MADE THE REMARKS WHEN TABLING THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THIS AFTERNOON.
TO ENSURE THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TOWARDS PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES REMAINS PARAMOUNT, THE GOVERNOR PLEDGED IN HIS POLICY ADDRESS LAST OCTOBER "TO INCREASE RECURRENT SPENDING ON HEALTH CARE BY 22 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS BY 1997".
"ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE IS A PUBLIC RIGHT," MRS WONG STATED, ADDING THAT THIS RIGHT REMAINED THE CORNERSTONE OF GOVERNMENT POLICY.
LIKE MANY OTHER COUNTRIES, SHE CONTINUED, HONG KONG WAS COMING UNDER INCREASING STRESS DUE TO ESCALATING MEDICAL COSTS, AN AGEING POPULATION AND RISING EXPECTATION FOR IMPROVED SERVICES.
FEES CHARGED BY THE PUBLIC HOSPITAL SYSTEM HAD THEIR ORIGINS IN THE POST-WAR YEARS WHEN THEY WERE ORIGINALLY BASED ON THE COST OF CATERING, WHILST THE FEES CHARGED BY PUBLIC OUT-PATIENT CLINICS WERE BASED ON OPERATING COST.
AND FEES LEVIED IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS - BE THEY ACUTE GENERAL, INFIRMARY AND PSYCHIATRIC - ARE THE SAME IRRESPECTIVE OF THE DIFFERENT LEVELS OF SERVICE, OPERATING COST AND PATIENT’S ABILITY TO PAY.
MRS WONG EXPLAINED THAT ALL FEES WERE UPDATED EVERY YEAR, BASED ON AVERAGE OPERATING COST AND IN LINE WITH THE MOVEMENT OF GOVERNMENT CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE DEFLATOR.
FURTHERMORE, SHE SAID, PRIOR TO THE SETTING UP OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY, DIFFERENT HOSPITALS HAD DIFFERENT CHARGING POLICIES.
"WHEREAS EX-GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS IMPOSED AN ALL-INCLUSIVE FLAT RATE, THAT IS, ’STANDARD CHARGE’ FOR THE OCCUPATION OF A GENERAL WARD BED, SOME EX-SUBVENTED HOSPITALS CHARGED SEPARATELY FOR ADMISSION, SURGICAL OPERATIONS AND DRUGS IN ADDITION TO THE BASIC RATE," SAID MRS WONG.
"THUS THE CURRENT SYSTEM OF FEES CHARGED IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR IS NEITHER RATIONAL, CONSISTENT NOR CLEARLY UNDERSTOOD. UNLESS OPTIONS ARE ADOPTED, THE EXISTING SYSTEM WILL CONTINUE. "THESE HISTORICAL METHODS OF CHARGING STILL APPLY TODAY IN SOME CIRCUMSTANCES.
"THESE HISTORICAL ANOMALIES IN FEE STRUCTURE CREATE CONFUSION AND NEED TO BE RATIONALISED."
MRS WONG ALSO NOTED THAT HONG KONG’S HEALTH AND WELFARE POLICY HAD ALWAYS FOCUSED ON THE PHILOSOPHY OF HELPING THE VULNERABLE AND THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS.
YET, UNDER THE EXISTING HEALTH CARE SYSTEM, THE LESS WELL OFF, THE ELDERLY AND LONG-STAY PATIENTS DO NOT HAVE CERTAINTY OF ACCESS TO WAIVER BECAUSE THE CURRENT FEE CHARGING SYSTEM DOES NOT CARRY WITH IT A CLEAR-CUT WAIVER SYSTEM EXCEPT FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE RECIPIENTS.
/FOR EXAMPLE .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
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FOR EXAMPLE, AN ELDERLY PATIENT AT PRESENT HAS TO PAY $43 A DAY PLUS VARIOUS INPATIENT CHARGES STILL IMPOSED IN SOME HOSPITALS UNDER THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY. THERE IS NO AUTOMATIC WAIVER SYSTEM IN PLACE.
ALSO, PUBLIC HOSPITALS OFFER LITTLE CHOICE OF ACCOMMODATION TO CONSUMERS.
"AFTER RATIONALISATION, THE PATIENT WILL KNOW WITH CERTAINTY, AND IN ADVANCE, HIS ENTITLEMENT, THAT IS TO SAY WHAT WILL BE CHARGED AND WHAT WILL BE WAIVED.
"AND PATIENTS WILL HAVE MORE CHOICE AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE, PARTICULARLY WITH REGARD TO HOSPITAL ACCOMMODATION AND ENVIRONMENT."
GIVEN THE IMPERFECTIONS OF THE EXISTING SYSTEM, MRS WONG SAID THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT OFFERED A NUMBER OF OPTIONS ON POSSIBLE APPROACHES TO GIVE PEOPLE A SAFETY NET WITH CERTAINTY, MORE CHOICE AT AFFORDABLE PRICES, WHILST MAINTAINING THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT IN SUBSIDISING HEALTH CARE SERVICES AND POISING OURSELVES TO MEET THE MEDICAL AND DEMOGRAPHIC CHALLENGES OF TOMORROW.
CHAPTER 4 OF THE DOCUMENT OUTLINES THE FOLLOWING FIVE POSSIBLE OPTIONS AS A WAY FORWARD:
OPTION A: PERCENTAGE SUBSIDY APPROACH
OPTION B: TARGET GROUP APPROACH
OPTION C: CO-ORDINATED VOLUNTARY INSURANCE APPROACH
OPTION D: COMPULSORY COMPREHENSIVE INSURANCE APPROACH
OPTION E: PRIORITISATION OF TREATMENT APPROACH
OPTIONS A AND B ARE WAYS OF FEE CHARGING AND WAIVER; OPTIONS C AND D ARE WAYS OF FUNDING HEALTH SERVICES FOR THE COMMUNITY; AND OPTION E IS A WAY OF ALLOCATING RESOURCES.
OF THE FIVE APPROACHES OFFERED FOR CONSULTATION, THE GOVERNMENT FAVOURS A COMBINATION OF APPROACHES.
THE COMBINATION WILL HAVE THE ADVANTAGE OF CONTINUITY IN MAINTAINING HEAVILY-SUBSIDISED PUBLIC HOSPITAL SERVICES FOR GENERAL WARD PATIENTS WHILST PROVIDING MORE CHOICE THROUGH THE INTRODUCTION OF SEMI-PRIVATE ROOMS.
MORE IMPORTANTLY, FOR THE FIRST TIME IN HONG KONG, THERE WILL BE A CLEAR WAIVER FOR TARGETED VULNERABLE GROUPS.
THE ADMINISTRATION ALSO FAVOURS THE INTRODUCTION OF A COORDINATED VOLUNTARY INSURANCE SCHEME AS A FRAMEWORK TO ALLOW CONSUMERS MORE CHOICE AT AFFORDABLE PRICES.
COUPLED WITH THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO INCREASE RECURRENT SPENDING ON HEALTH CARE BY 22 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS BY 1997, THE COMBINATION OF OPTIONS WILL PUT HONG KONG’S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM ON A SOUND FOOTING.
/MRS WONG .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
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MRS WONG CONCLUDED: "IF WE MOVE FORWARD TO CATER TO THE
ASPIRATIONS OF THE COMMUNITY AND ANTICIPATE THE NEEDS OF THE FUTURE, WE SHOULD, FROM A WIDE SPECTRUM OF OPTIONS, SELECT THOSE MOST APPROPRIATE TO HONG KONG AND MOST ACCEPTABLE TO OUR COMMUNITY.
"I HOPE MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WILL OPENLY AND FRANKLY PUT FORWARD THEIR VIEWS. WE NEED TO SEE YOUR NEEDS THROUGH YOUR EYES."
THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT IS NOW AVAILABLE FROM ALL DISTRICT OFFICES, HOSPITALS AND CLINICS.
ALL VIEWS SHOULD BE SENT TO THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH, PO BOX 8138, GENERAL POST OFFICE, ON OR BEFORE SEPTEMBER 30, THIS YEAR.
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AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRES BILL PASSED *****
THE AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRES BILL WAS PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE BILL, THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SUEN, SAID THE BILL SOUGHT TO ESTABLISH AN EFFECTIVE REGULATORY REGIME FOR LICENSING AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRES.
ADDRESSING MEMBERS’ CONCERN OVER THE OPERATION OF VENDING MACHINES AND COMPUTER SOFTWARE SALES, MR SUEN SAID THE PRIMARY PURPOSE OF A VENDING MACHINE WAS FOR THE SALE OF MERCHANDISE RATHER THAN FOR PROVIDING ENTERTAINMENT.
"FURTHERMORE, THE ELEMENT OF CHANCE IS ABSENT.
"IT IS THEREFORE NOT OUR INTENTION TO CONTROL VENDING MACHINES UNDER THIS LEGISLATION," HE SAID.
HOWEVER, WITH REGARD TO COMPUTER SOFTWARE VENDORS, MR SUEN SAID THEY WOULD BE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN AN AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRE LICENCE, IF THEY PROVIDED AMUSEMENT GAMES ON THEIR PREMISES AT A CHARGE.
BUT THOSE COMPUTER VENDORS WHO SELL SOFTWARE FOR PRIVATE USE WOULD NOT REQUIRE SUCH A LICENCE, HE SAID.
MR SUEN NOTED THE LICENSED AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRES TRADE ASSOCIATION LTD’S OBJECTION TO THE PROPOSED CUT-OFF AGE OF 16 FOR ADMISSION INTO ADULT’S AND CHILDREN’S CENTRES.
THE ASSOCIATION ARGUED FOR THE ADOPTION OF A SYSTEM SIMILAR TO THAT USED FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF FILMS, WHICH PROVIDES FOR A CUTOFF AGE OF 18.
BUT MR SUEN ASSERTED THAT AMUSEMENT GAMES AND FILM VIEWING WERE TWO DIFFERENT FORMS OF ENTERTAINMENT.
/"THE PHYSICAL
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
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"THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH AMUSEMENT GAMES ARE PLAYED, THE DEGREE OF PARTICIPATION BY PLAYERS AND THE INTERACTIVE NATURE OF MODERN GAMES HAVE MADE THEM A UNIQUE FORM OF ENTERTAINMENT WHICH SHOULD NOT BE COMPARED WITH FILM VIEWING OR OTHER FORMS OF ENTERTAINMENT.
"FOR THE SAME REASON, THE GROUNDS FOR PROVIDING EXTRA PROTECTION TO THOSE ADMITTED TO CHILDREN’S CENTRES AND TO FREE THEM FROM HARASSMENT BY OTHERS WHO ARE OLDER ARE THAT MUCH STRONGER," HE SAID.
HE CONFIRMED THAT THE AGE OF 16 STIPULATED IN THE BILL WAS A POPULAR CHOICE, BOTH WITH THE MEMBERS OF THE BILLS COMMITTEE AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
AS TO MEMBERS’ CONCERN OVER POSSIBLE ABUSE OF THE ENFORCEMENT PROVISIONS, MR SUEN REASSURED MEMBERS THAT THE LICENSING AUTHORITY WOULD TAKE A NUMBER OF ADMINISTRATIVE MEASURES, INCLUDING ADVISORY LETTERS AND WARNING LETTERS BEFORE RESORTING TO PROSECUTIONS.
"PRIOR TO THE SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF LICENCES, OPERATORS WILL BE INVITED TO MAKE REPRESENTATIONS.
"IN ADDITION, ENFORCEMENT GUIDELINES WILL BE DRAWN UP BETWEEN THE TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY AND THE POLICE.
"THE TRADE AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES WILL BE FULLY INFORMED OF THE DETAILS OF THE GUIDELINES BEFORE THEY ARE BROUGHT INTO OPERATION," HE ADDED.
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CENSORSHIP OF FILMS, VIDEOTAPES AND LASERDISCS UNDER ONE ROOF t * t * * *
HONG KONG IS NOT READY TO ADOPT A FILM CENSORSHIP SYSTEM WHEREBY THE FILM INDUSTRY EXERCISES SELF-REGULATION AS PRACTISED IN THE UNITED STATES AND JAPAN, THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE FILM INDUSTRY IN HONG KONG, ALTHOUGH BOOMING, STILL LACKED COHESION AND A STRONG ORGANISATION FOR IT TO BE CHARGED WITH THIS VERY SENSITIVE, ONEROUS AND AT TIMES HIGHLY CONTROVERSIAL TASK.
FURTHERMORE, HONG KONG PUBLIC STILL LOOKS TO THE GOVERNMENT AS THE PROPER GUARDIAN OF PUBLIC MORALS, HE SAID.
HOWEVER, I SHALL BE HAPPY TO EXAMINE THIS IDEA FURTHER IN CONSULTATION WITH THE RECREATION AND CULTURE PANEL OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AS WELL AS THE FILM INDUSTRY.
MR SO WAS SPEAKING AT THE RESUMED DEBATE OF THE FILM CENSORSHIP (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 WHICH AIMED TO PLACE THE CENSORSHIP OF FILMS, AND VIDEOTAPES AND LASERDISCS MADE FROM SUCH FILMS, IN THE HANDS OF THE FILM CENSORSHIP AUTHORITY.
/IN THE ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
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IN THE COURSE OF EXAMINING THE BILL BY THE BILLS COMMITTEE, MEMBERS RAISED A NUMBER OF ISSUES, ONE OF WHICH RELATED TO THE INCREASE IN FINES FOR EXHIBITING A CATEGORY III FILM TO A PERSON BELOW 18 YEARS OF AGE FROM $10,000 TO $50,000.
ALTHOUGH MEMBERS HAD GENERALLY AGREED THAT PENALTIES FOR THIS OFFENCE MUST BE SET AT A REALISTIC LEVEL TO ACHIEVE THE DESIRED DETERRENT EFFECT, THE HONG KONG THEATRE ASSOCIATION RAISED STRONG OBJECTIONS, ARGUING THAT IT WAS DIFFICULT FOR THEM TO ENFORCE THIS PROVISION.
IN RESPONSE TO THIS OBJECTION, MR SO SAID, THE FILM CENSORSHIP AUTHORITY HAD ADOPTED A SYSTEM WHEREBY A WARNING LETTER WOULD BE ISSUED TO REMIND CINEMA OPERATORS OF THEIR LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES WHEN AN OFFENCE WAS FIRST DETECTED.
PROSECUTION ACTION WOULD ONLY BE TAKEN WHEN AN OFFENCE WAS DETECTED ON A THIRD AND SUBSEQUENT OCCASION.
TO ENSURE THAT SUCH WARNING LETTERS WILL NOT HANG OVER THE HEADS OF A CINEMA OPERATOR FOREVER, SUCH LETTERS WILL BE INVALIDATED AFTER TWO YEARS IF DURING THAT PERIOD THE CINEMA OPERATOR HAS NOT BEEN FOUND TO HAVE COMMITTED A FURTHER BREACH, MR SO SAID.
"THE AUTHORITY WILL BE FORMALISING THIS ARRANGEMENT TO GIVE CINEMA OPERATORS CLARITY AND CERTAINTY."
ON THE ASSOCIATION’S ARGUMENT THAT UNDERAGED PERSONS VIEWING CATEGORY III FILMS SHOULD BEAR SOME OF THE RESPONSIBILITIES THEMSELVES, MR SO DID NOT AGREE.
HE CONSIDERED THAT THE PRESENT PRACTICE OF GIVING VERBAL WARNINGS TO MINORS WHEN FOUND VIEWING A CATEGORY III MOVIE, AND THE POSSIBILITY OF REQUIRING THEM TO APPEAR AS WITNESSES IN COURT SHOULD SERVE AS ADEQUATE DETERRENTS TO THE YOUNGSTERS.
THE SECRETARY ALSO SHARED MEMBERS’ CONCERN OVER THE CORRUPTING INFLUENCE OF THE RATHER EXPLICIT PICTURES AND WORDINGS APPEARING ON THE PACKAGE OF VIDEOTAPES AND LASERDISCS.
HE PROPOSED TO INCLUDE A NEW SECTION IN THE BILL REQUIRING THE PACKAGING OF VIDEOTAPES AND LASERDISCS MADE FROM ALL CATEGORY III FILMS TO BE SUBMITTED TO THE FILM CENSORSHIP AUTHORITY FOR SCRUTINY.
A CERTIFICATE WILL BE ISSUED REGARDING THE PACKAGING SUBMITTED AND ANY PERSON WHO PUBLISHES OR DISPLAYS SUCH PACKAGING WITHOUT A VALID CERTIFICATE COMMITS AN OFFENCE AND IS LIABLE TO A FINE OF $50,000 AND IMPRISONMENT OF SIX MONTHS, MR SO WARNED.
MEMBERS OF THE BILLS COMMITTEE HAD ASKED THAT SECTION 10(2)(C) OF THE FILM CENSORSHIP ORDINANCE REQUIRING A FILM TO BE CENSORED IF IT SERIOUSLY DAMAGED GOOD RELATIONS WITH OTHER TERRITORIES, BE REPEALED ON GROUNDS THAT IT WAS INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE BILL OF RIGHTS ORDINANCE.
ACCORDING TO LEGAL ADVICE, MR SO SAID, THE PROVISION WAS NOT INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS OR THE HONG KONG BILL OF RIGHTS ORDINANCE.
/HOWEVER, HE ........
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
HOWEVER, HE AGREED THAT THIS ISSUE SHOULD BE KEPT UNDER CONSTANT REVIEW AND THAT HE WOULD DISCUSS THIS MATTER FURTHER WITH THE RECREATION AND CULTURE PANEL IN FUTURE.
THE BILL WAS PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS.
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CRIMINAL PROCEDURE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 INTRODUCED
*****
THE PRINCIPAL OBJECT OF THE CRIMINAL PROCEDURE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 IS TO CREATE A STATUTORY RIGHT TO BAIL FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION IN ITS REPORT ON BAIL IN CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS.
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR JEREMY MATHEWS, SAID IT HAD BEEN THE PRACTICE OF THE COURTS FOR MANY YEARS TO GRANT BAIL PENDING TRIAL, EXCEPT WHERE THERE WAS GOOD REASON NOT TO DO SO.
"A GOOD REASON TO DENY BAIL EXISTS WHERE THERE ARE GROUNDS TO FEAR THAT THE DEFENDANT WILL FAIL TO APPEAR AT FUTURE COURT HEARINGS, OR WILL COMMIT OFFENCES WHILE ON BAIL, OR WILL INTERFERE WITH THE COURSE OF JUSTICE; AND ALSO WHERE THE DEFENDANT SHOULD BE REMANDED IN CUSTODY FOR HIS OWN PROTECTION," HE SAID.
THE BILL PROPOSED TO GIVE STATUTORY EFFECT TO THE PRACTICE OF THE COURTS, AND FOR THE FIRST TIME WOULD CREATE A POSITIVE PRESUMPTION IN FAVOUR OF BAIL.
"THIS WILL IN NO WAY DETRACT FROM THE POWERS OF THE COURT TO REFUSE BAIL IN APPROPRIATE CIRCUMSTANCES.
"IT WILL, HOWEVER, PROHIBIT THE ARBITRARY OR UNREASONABLE REFUSAL OF BAIL, AND WILL IMPOSE A DUTY UPON THE COURTS TO EXPLAIN THE BASIS ON WHICH BAIL IS REFUSED," MR MATHEWS STRESSED.
THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT EMPHASISED THE NEED FOR THE COURT TO CONSIDER PROPERLY THE ALLEGED FACTS ON WHICH OBJECTIONS TO BAIL WERE BASED, AND PROVIDED THAT CONDITIONS OF BAIL MIGHT BE IMPOSED ONLY WHERE THE COURT CONSIDERED THEM TO BE NECESSARY.
IN THE VAST MAJORITY OF CASES, HE SAID, THE ISSUE FOR THE COURT TO DETERMINE WOULD BE WHETHER THE DEFENDANT WOULD FAIL TO SURRENDER TO CUSTODY, COMMIT AN OFFENCE ON BAIL OR INTERFERE WITH THE COURSE OF JUSTICE.
"IN DEFINING THE STANDARD OF PROOF FOR PROSECUTION OBJECTIONS, THE BILL STATES THAT THE COURT MUST GRANT BAIL UNLESS IT APPEARS TO THE COURT THAT THERE IS AN UNACCEPTABLE RISK THE DEFENDANT WILL DO ONE OR MORE OF THOSE THREE THINGS,” HE POINTED OUT.
THE PROPOSED PRESUMPTION IN FAVOUR OF BAIL WOULD ARISE ONLY PRIOR TO CONVICTION. IT WOULD NOT APPLY TO BAIL PENDING APPEAL, ALTHOUGH COURTS WOULD RETAIN THEIR PRESENT DISCRETIONARY POWERS TO GRANT BAIL.
/THE BILL .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
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THE BILL PROPOSED TO ABOLISH THE POWER OF COURTS TO TAKE RECOGNIZANCES FROM BAIL PERSONS AS GUARANTEES FOR THEIR FUTURE SURRENDER TO CUSTODY.
INSTEAD, A SPECIFIC OFFENCE OF FAILING TO SURRENDER TO CUSTODY WAS PROPOSED. EXISTING POWERS FOR COURTS TO REQUIRE CASH DEPOSITS FROM DEFENDANTS, AND TO REQUIRE SURETIES, WERE RETAINED.
"IN ANY CASE WHERE A PERSON IS REFUSED UNCONDITIONAL BAIL BY A MAGISTRATE OR A DISTRICT COURT JUDGE, THE BILL PROVIDES THAT HE OR SHE WILL HAVE THE RIGHT TO APPLY TO A HIGH COURT JUDGE WHO WILL CONSIDER THE MATTER AFRESH. THE BILL IN SUBSTANCE REPEATS THE EFFECT OF EXISTING LAW," MR MATHEWS SAID.
THE BILL PRESERVED EXISTING POWERS OF ARREST WITHOUT WARRANT BY A POLICE OFFICER WHERE THERE WERE REASONABLE GROUNDS TO BELIEVE A PERSON HAD BREACHED OR WAS LIKELY TO BREACH HIS BAIL.
IT ALSO PRESERVED THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S RIGHT TO SEEK A REVIEW OF BAIL GRANTED BY A MAGISTRATE OR DISTRICT COURT JUDGE.
MR MATHEWS POINTED OUT THAT THE BILL ONLY SOUGHT TO REGULATE THE MANNER IN WHICH COURTS EXERCISED THEIR DISCRETION.
HE SAID FOR THE MOST PART, THE COURTS’ JURISDICTION TO GRANT BAIL WAS NOT ALTERED, WITH ONLY ONE EXCEPTION.
THE BILL PROPOSED THAT THE COURT OF APPEAL SHOULD BE EMPOWERED TO GRANT BAIL OR DETAIN A PERSON IN CUSTODY PENDING A PROSECUTION OR DEFENCE APPEAL TO THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
AT PRESENT, THERE WAS NO SUCH POWER.
MR MATHEWS SAID ALTHOUGH THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION’S RECOMMENDATIONS RELATED BOTH TO BAIL BY THE POLICE AND BAIL BY THE COURTS, THE BILL RELATED ONLY TO THE LATTER BECAUSE A FURTHER LAW REFORM COMMISSION REPORT ON ARREST, DETENTION, SEARCH AND SEIZURE, PUBLISHED IN NOVEMBER 1992, WAS UNDER ACTIVE CONSIDERATION.
THIS DEALT WITH POLICE POWERS GENERALLY AND THE QUESTION OF BAIL BY THE POLICE IS MORE APPROPRIATELY CONSIDERED IN THAT WIDER CONTEXT.
MR MATHEWS STRESSED THE BILL WOULD BE BALANCING THE INDIVIDUAL’S RIGHT TO FREEDOM WITH, THE NEED TO PROTECT SOCIETY AGAINST CRIMINALS.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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/16 .......
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TIGHT CONTROL OF LEVERAGED FOREIGN EXCHANGE CONTRACTS *****
THE NATURE OF THE LEVERAGED FOREIGN EXCHANGE CONTRACTS AND THE VOLATILITY OF THE FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKET CALL FOR TIGHT REGULATION SO AS TO PROVIDE A SAFER AND MORE ORDERLY ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH THE INVESTING PUBLIC CAN HAVE CONFIDENCE.
THE REMARK WAS MADE BY THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, WHEN HE MOVED THE SECOND READING OF THE LEVERAGED FOREIGN EXCHANGE TRADING BILL IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE SAID INVESTORS IN THE CONTRACTS WOULD BE GIVEN MORE PROTECTION UNDER A LEGAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK PROPOSED IN THE BILL.
COMPANIES INVOLVED IN THE BUSINESS AND THEIR REPRESENTATIVES WILL BE REQUIRED IN FUTURE TO OBTAIN A LICENCE FROM THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION (SFC), HE SAID.
EXCEPT FOR CERTAIN EXEMPTIONS GIVEN TO AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS AND DEALS CONDUCTED UNDER SPECIFIED CIRCUMSTANCES, IT WILL BE A CRIMINAL OFFENCE FOR ANYONE TO CARRY ON SUCH BUSINESS WITHOUT BEING SO REGISTERED.
THE PENALTY FOR A BREACH OF THIS REQUIREMENT INVOLVES A MAXIMUM FINE OF $10 MILLION AND MAXIMUM IMPRISONMENT FOR SEVEN YEARS.
MR CARTLAND SAID THERE HAD BEEN FREQUENT COMPLAINTS- FROM INVESTORS ABOUT MALPRACTICES BY THESE COMPANIES.
'’DESPITE THE COMPLAINTS RECEIVED, IT IS DIFFICULT TO SECURE SUFFICIENT EVIDENCE TO PROVE THAT THESE COMPANIES HAVE DISHONESTLY OR RECKLESSLY TRADED THEIR CLIENTS’ ACCOUNTS,” MR CARTLAND SAID.
’’SOME HAVE EVEN ROUTED THEIR DEALS TO OVERSEAS SISTER COMPANIES, MAKING IT VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO OBTAIN SUFFICIENT EVIDENCE TO SUPPORT A PROSECUTION OR CIVIL SUIT,” HE SAID.
AT PRESENT, IT IS ESTIMATED THAT NO FEWER THAN 200 COMPANIES ARE ENGAGED IN THE BUSINESS.
THESE COMPANIES ARE NOT SUBJECT TO ANY FORM OF GOVERNMENT REGULATION APART FROM HAVING TO FULFILL THE INITIAL REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO ALL COMPANIES UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE.
MR CARTLAND SAID MALPRACTICES, COUPLED WITH BAD MANAGEMENT, HAD LED TO THE COLLAPSE OF SOME OF THESE COMPANIES.
IN THE LIGHT OF THIS SITUATION, THERE SHOULD BE STRINGENT REQUIREMENTS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO INVESTORS, HE SAID.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
17 -
FEES TO COMPANIES REGISTRAR REVISED *****
CERTAIN FEES PAYABLE TO THE REGISTRAR OF COMPANIES WILL BE INCREASED BY AN AVERAGE OF 30 PER CENT FROM AUGUST 1.
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) PASSED TWO RESOLUTIONS TO THAT EFFECT.
THE TWO FEE REVISIONS WERE ON THE INSPECTION AND PHOTOCOPYING OF LIQUIDATORS’ STATEMENTS SENT TO THE REGISTRAR UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE AND THE INCORPORATION OF TRUSTEES UNDER THE REGISTERED TRUSTEES INCORPORATION ORDINANCE RESPECTIVELY.
MOVING THE RESOLUTIONS, THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, SAID THE REVISIONS WERE MADE AFTER INCREASES IN THE COST OF PROVIDING SUCH SERVICES SINCE 1988 WHEN THE FEES WERE LAST REVISED.
- - 0 - -
PUBLIC HELP A KEY FACTOR IN CRIME-FIGHTING *****
THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THE POLICE ATTACHED MUCH IMPORTANCE TO GOOD PUBLIC RELATIONS IN THEIR FIGHT AGAINST CRIME.
’’THEY ARE VERY WELL AWARE THAT CO-OPERATION AND ASSISTANCE FROM THE PUBLIC ARE ESSENTIAL IF THEY ARE TO FIGHT CRIME EFFECTIVELY,” HE SAID.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON CONRAD LAM, MR ASPREY SAID ALL POLICE OFFICERS WERE GIVEN TRAINING IN PUBLIC RELATIONS AT RECRUITMENT AND IN SUBSEQUENT YEARS OF SERVICE.
’’REGULAR REVIEWS ARE CONDUCTED ON THE WAYS OF PROMOTING GOOD PUBLIC RELATIONS.
’’THE POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS BUREAU ITSELF IS CURRENTLY UNDER STUDY AS PART OF THE OVERALL POLICE MANAGEMENT REVIEW," HE SAID.
THE BUREAU IS CHARGED WITH THE SPECIFIC ROLE OF PROMOTING GOOD PUBLIC RELATIONS. IT CO-ORDINATES COMMUNITY RELATIONS ACTIVITIES, MAINTAINS GOOD MEDIA RELATIONS, CARRIES OUT PUBLICITY AS WELL AS PLANS AND IMPLEMENTS CAMPAIGNS.
AT DISTRICT LEVEL, DISTRICT COMMANDERS ATTEND MEETINGS OF DISTRICT BOARDS AND DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEES TO LISTEN TO THEIR VIEWS ON LAW AND ORDER ISSUES AND TO EXPLAIN POLICIES AND MEASURES TO TACKLE CRIME.
/THE DISTRICT........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
18
THE DISTRICT POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS OFFICERS ARE INVOLVED IN A NUMBER OF SCHEMES SUCH AS THE JUNIOR POLICE CALL, THE NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE SCHEME AND SCHOOL LIAISON SCHEME.
"THEY ALSO MAINTAIN CLOSE CONTACT WITH AREA COMMITTEES, MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES, OWNERS CORPORATIONS AND SIMILAR ORGANISATIONS,” MR ASPREY SAID.
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MORE INFIRMARY BEDS FOR ELDERLY
*****
A TOTAL OF 1,114 NEW INFIRMARY BEDS WOULD COME ON STREAM IN THE YEARS FROM NOW TO 1998/99 TO MEET THE INCREASING NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY REQUIRING MEDICAL SERVICES, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON FREDERICK FUNG, THE SECRETARY SAID PLANS WERE BEING FORMULATED BY THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY TO REDESIGNATE ABOUT 500 GENERAL BEDS AND TO CONVERT SOME HOSPITAL FACILITIES AS AN ADDITIONAL SUPPLY OF INFIRMARY BEDS.
IN ADDITION TO INFIRMARY PLACES, MRS WONG SAID, THE GOVERNMENT WAS ALSO FOCUSING ON THE PROVISION OF OUTREACH SERVICE.
THIS WOULD BE DONE THROUGH THE SETTING UP OF COMMUNITY-BASED GERIATIC SERVICE WHICH WOULD PROVIDE PRE-REGISTRATION ASSESSMENT AND MEDICAL CARE FOR THE ELDERLY OUTSIDE THE HOSPITAL ENVIRONMENT.
SPECIALIST SUPPORT WOULD BE GIVEN TO SUBVENTED CARE-AND-ATTENTION HOMES, SHE ADDED.
"COMMUNITY NURSING SERVICE AND DOMICILIARY OCCUPATIONAL THERARY ARE ALSO IN PLACE TO PRIOVIDE PROFESSIONAL CARE AND SUPPORT TO ELDERLY PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY AS WELL AS THOSE WHO CARE FOR THEM," SHE SAID.
MORE, DISTRICT-BASED CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEES ARE BEING FORMED IN COLLABORATION WITH THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS AND THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO CO-ORDINATE SERVICE REQUIREMENTS.
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Z19........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
- 19 -
NEW MEASURES TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW IN KWAI CHUNG ******
MUCH HAS BEEN DONE TO IMPROVE THE TRAFFIC FLOW IN KWAI CHUNG IN THE LAST FEW YEARS AND A NUMBER OF NEW MEASURES WILL BE INTRODUCED SHORTLY, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR YEUNG SAID THE NEW MEASURES INCLUDED THE ALLOCATION OF ABOUT 30 HECTARES OF LAND IN THE NEXT SIX MONTHS TO BE USED AS ADDITIONAL BACK-UP SERVICE AREAS FOR THE PORT AND THE PROVISION OF A SECOND EMERGENCY HOLDING AREA WHICH WOULD BE CAPABLE OF ACCOMMODATING ABOUT 150 CONTAINER VEHICLES.
HE WAS REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ZACHARY WONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
HE SAID THE ADOPTION BY TWO CONTAINER TERMINAL OPERATORS OF AN APPOINTMENT SYSTEM FOR VEHICLES SHOULD FACILITATE A MORE ORDERLY FLOW TO AND FROM THE PORT AND THE STRENGTHENING OF THE POLICE DISTRICT TRAFFIC TEAM AT TIMES OF EXPECTED CONGESTION WOULD IMPROVE TRAFFIC REGULATION IN THE AREA.
MR YEUNG SAID OTHER PROPOSALS UNDER CONSIDERATION INCLUDED A REVIEW OF ACCESS POINTS TO THE TERMINALS TO SEE WHETHER THESE COULD BE IMPROVED SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A SMOOTHER TRAFFIC FLOW AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN EMERGENCY CONTROL CENTRE IN KWAI CHUNG.
THE PROPOSED CENTRE SHOULD COMPRISE REPRESENTATIVES OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, TERMINAL OPERATORS AND THE TRUCKING INDUSTRY, WHICH WOULD BE MANNED AT TIMES OF PARTICULARLY HEAVY TRAFFIC DEMAND.
"GIVEN THE FACT THAT THE CONGESTION WE HAVE SEEN IS DUE TO THE TERMINALS REACHING SATURATION, THE REAL, LONG-TERM SOLUTION LIES IN THE OPENING UP OF CONTAINER TERMINALS 8 AND 9, WITH THEIR VERY SUBSTANTIAL BACK UP AREAS TOTALLING 76 HECTARES AND ASSOCIATED ACCESS ROAD IMPROVEMENTS," MR YEUNG SAID.
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NURSES TRAINING SCHOOLS TO BE EXPANDED
*****
PLANS ARE BEING MADE TO EXPAND THE NURSES TRAINING SCHOOL AT THE UNITED CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL AND THE TAI PO NETHERSOLE HOSPITAL IN ORDER TO MEET THE PROJECTED REQUIREMENT OF NURSES FOR NEW HOSPITAL PROJECTS, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID*
UNDER THE PLANS, AN ADDITIONAL 130 REGISTERED NURSES WILL BE PROVIDED EACH YEAR.
/REPLYING TO .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
20
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON TIK CHI-YUEN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MRS WONG SAID OTHER SOURCES OF SUPPLY INCLUDED DIRECT RECRUITMENT AND NURSING DEGREE GRADUATES FROM THE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS.
TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION CURRENT ANNUAL WASTAGE RATE AT 7.4 PER CENT FOR DOCTORS AND 9.6 PER CENT FOR NURSES RESPECTIVELY, IT IS ESTIMATED THAT ON AVERAGE ABOUT 255 DOCTORS AND 1,223 REGISTERED NURSES WILL BE REQUIRED IN EACH OF THE NEXT FIVE YEARS TO MEET THE DEMAND ARISING FROM NEW SERVICE AREAS.
"AGAINST THIS DEMAND, THERE WILL BE AN ANNUAL SUPPLY FROM LOCAL TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS AND FROM OUR NURSES TRAINING SCHOOLS OF ABOUT 250 DOCTORS AND 1,200 REGISTERED NURSES FOR EMPLOYMENT IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR," SHE SAID.
APART FROM RATIOS DRAWN UP BY THE FORMER MEDICAL DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE, THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY ALSO TAKES REFERENCE FROM THE ACTUAL OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND STAFFING PROVISION IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS HAVING REGARD TO THE ADVANCEMENTS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY AND THE ADVENT OF NEW TREATMENT PROCEDURES.
MRS WONG EXPLAINED THAT THE MANPOWER PLANNING PROCESS FIRST INVOLVED BUSINESS PLANNING BY INDIVIDUAL HOSPITALS TO IDENTIFY THE ACTUAL DEMAND AND OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS IN RELATION TO THEIR OBJECTIVES AND TARGETS.
THIS IS FOLLOWED BY CENTRAL ASSESSMENT BY THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY ON THE OVERALL DEMAND AND SUPPLY OF MANPOWER AND THE SETTING OF ANNUAL RECRUITMENT TARGETS.
"THIS PLANNING PROCESS HAS BEEN APPLIED IN THE CASE OF PAMELA YOUDE NETHERSOLE EASTERN HOSPITAL AND THE TAI PO NETHERSOLE HOSPITAL," SHE SAID.
REGARDING THE PLANNED NEW NORTH DISTRICT HOSPITAL, SHE SAID A COMMITTEE CHAIRED BY HER HAD BEEN SET UP TO PLAN THE MANPOWER REQUIREMENTS AND TO ENSURE THAT TRAINING PROGRAMMES WERE IN PLACE TO MEET THEM.
THE COMMITTEE COMPRISES REPRESENTATIVES FROM FINANCE BRANCH, HOSPITAL AUTHORITY AND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.
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/21 .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
- 21 -
STEPS TAKEN TO AVOID MISTAKES IN FUTURE JURY TRIALS *******
THE ACTING CHIEF JUSTICE HAS THIS WEEK SENT TO ALL JUDGES OF THE HIGH COURT A SPECIMEN DIRECTION AND A FORM WHICH THE JUDGES WERE INVITED TO USE IN ALL FUTURE JURY TRIALS AS ONE OF THE STEPS TAKEN TO AVOID A MISTAKEN JURY VERDICT OCCURING IN THE FUTURE, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON JEREMY MATHEWS, SAID.
IN HIS REPLY TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR MATHEWS SAID THE SPECIMEN DIRECTION WAS TO BE GIVEN BEFORE THE JURY RETIRED TO CONSIDER ITS VERDICT.
IT EXPLAINED EACH JUROR WOULD BE GIVEN A PIECE OF PAPER SETTING OUT THE QUESTIONS THAT THE FOREMAN OF THE JURY WOULD LATER BE ASKED.
"IT THEN SUGGESTS THAT, AFTER THE COLLECTIVE DECISION IS REACHED, EACH JUROR SHOULD NOTE ON HIS OR HER PIECE OF PAPER THE AGREED ANSWERS, AND SHOULD RETURN TO COURT WITH THAT PIECE OF PAPER.
"IF ANY MISTAKE ARISES WHEN THE FOREMAN ANSWERS THE QUESTIONS PUT TO HIM OR HER, THE JURORS ARE INSTRUCTED IN THE SPECIMEN DIRECTION TO DRAW IT TO THE JUDGE’S IMMEDIATE ATTENTION,” MR MATHEWS SAID.
THE PIECE OF PAPER WAS TO BE BASED ON THE FORM SENT OUT BY THE ACTING CHIEF JUSTICE. IT MIGHT HAVE TO BE MODIFIED TO MEET PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES.
IT SET OUT A SERIES OF QUESTIONS IN RESPECT OF EACH COUNT AND EACH ACCUSED, AND IN RESPECT OF EACH ALTERNATIVE VERDICT OPEN TO THE JURY IF THE VERDICT ON THE MAIN COUNT WAS NOT GUILTY.
"THE ACTING CHIEF JUSTICE HAS ASKED HIGH COURT JUDGES, AT THE END OF THREE MONTHS, TO SUPPLY THE CHIEF JUSTICE WITH ANY COMMENTS THEY MAY HAVE ON HOW THIS SCHEME IS WORKING," MR MATHEWS SAID.
"THE PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY FOR ENSURING THAT JURORS UNDERSTAND THEIR RIGHTS AND DUTIES LIES WITH THE TRIAL JUDGE. THE NEW SPECIMEN 1RECTION AND FORM ARE DESIGNED TO HELP JURORS UNDERSTAND WHAT THEY \RE BEING ASKED TO DECIDE AND WHAT THEY SHOULD DO IF THE FOREMAN MAKES A MISTAKE.
"JURORS ARE ALSO ASSISTED BEFORE THE TRIAL BEGINS BY BEING GIVEN A PAMPHLET THAT EXPLAINS THEIR ROLE. THE PAMPHLET IS NOW BEING REVISED AND THE JUDICIARY HAS PROPOSED THAT, IN ADDITION, AN INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR THE INFORMATION OF JURORS," HE SAID.
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122 .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
22
NO PLANS TO REVIEW PLOT RATIO SYSTEM *****
THERE ARE NO IMMEDIATE PLANS TO REVIEW THE PLOT RATIO SYSTEM USED TO CONTROL BUILDING DENSITY AS IT HAS NOT GIVEN RISE TO SIGNIFICANT PROBLEMS SINCE IT WAS INTRODUCED IN 1962, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON MRS PEGGY LAM IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR EASON SAID THE SYSTEM WAS WELL-UNDERSTOOD AND EFFECTIVE.
PLOT RATIOS STIPULATED UNDER PARTICULAR STATUTORY TOWN PLANS MIGHT HOWEVER BE REVIEWED FROM TIME TO TIME TO MEET CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES ON A CASE BY CASE BASIS.
HE SAID A HIGHER PLOT RATIO WAS PERMITTED FOR NON-DOMESTIC BUILDINGS SUCH AS THOSE USED FOR COMMERCIAL AND GODOWN PURPOSES BECAUSE THEY MIGHT RELY ON ARTIFICIAL LIGHTING AND VENTILATION TO A GREATER EXTENT AND HAD HIGHER DEVELOPMENT DENSITIES.
DOMESTIC BUILDINGS, WHICH WERE FOR HUMAN HABITATION, NEEDED TO MEET CERTAIN CRITERIA RELATING TO NATURAL LIGHT AND VENTILATION, HE EXPLAINED.
MR EASON SAID THERE WERE NO INDICATIONS THAT DIFFERENCES IN PLOT RATIO POTENTIAL HAD DISCOURAGED INVESTMENT IN DOMESTIC BUILDING PROJECTS.
’’THE CHOICE OF DEVELOPMENT TYPE FOR A PARTICULAR SITE IS RESTRICTED IN MOST CASES BY STATUTORY ZONING AND LEASE CONDITIONS.
"DEVELOPMENT DECISIONS ARE ALSO HEAVILY INFLUENCED BY MARKET CONDITIONS AND THE ECONOMIC OUTLOOK," HE SAID.
------0-------
STANDARDISING FEE STRUCTURE IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS PROPOSED ♦ **»♦»
THE NEED FOR RATIONALISING AND STANDARDISING THE FEE STRUCTURE IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS IS SPELT OUT IN THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT ’TOWARDS BETTER HEALTH’ TABLED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON EMILY LAU WAI-HING, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID WITH THE SETTING UP OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY AND THE BRINGING OF ALL 39 PUBLIC HOSPITALS UNDER ONE MANAGEMENT, IT WAS NECESSARY TO STANDARDISE THE FEE STRUCTURE SO THAT PATIENTS KNEW BEFOREHAND WITH CERTAINTY HOW MUCH THEY WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR HOSPITAL SERVICES.
MRS WONG EXPLAINED THAT IN FORMER GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS, MOST PATIENTS STAYING IN PUBLIC WARDS WERE CHARGED A DAILY MAINTENANCE FEE AT $43.
/THE MAINTENANCE .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
23
THE MAINTENANCE FEE COVERS CLINICAL, BIOCHEMICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS, VACCINES, GENERAL NURSING AND MEDICINE.
OTHER CHARGES SUCH AS FOR CERTAIN SURGICAL IMPLANTS AND SPECIAL EQUIPMENT, ARE DETERMINED BY THE MEDICAL OFFICER ATTENDING THE PATIENT.
MRS WONG POINTED OUT THAT IF PATIENTS COULD NOT AFFORD THE SPECIAL EQUIPMENT OR SURGICAL IMPLANTS, THEY MIGHT APPLY FOR WAIVER THROUGH THE MEDICAL SOCIAL WORKERS, UPON WHOSE RECOMMENDATION GRANTS COULD BE RELEASED FROM THE SAMARITAN FUND TO COVER WHOLE OR PART OF THE COST INVOLVED.
’’SOME PUBLIC HOSPITALS, THAT IS, FORMER SUBVERTED HOSPITALS, HAVE HISTORICALLY APPLIED THEIR OWN FEE STRUCTURE IN RESPECT OF MEDICAL TREATMENT NOT COVERED BY THE DAILY MAINTENANCE FEE,” MRS WONG SAID.
"THESE INCLUDE ITEMISED CHARGES FOR ADMISSION, SURGICAL OPERATIONS AND DRUGS," SHE ADDED.
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DISQUALIFICATION RULE TO STAY
*****
THE ADMINISTRATION DOES NOT HAVE ANY PLANS TO CHANGE THE TRIGGER POINT FOR DISQUALIFICATION OF MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE AND MUNICIPAL COUNCILS AND DISTRICT BOARDS FROM ONE BASED ON SENTENCE TO ONE BASED ON CONVICTION.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HENRY TANG AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR SZE SAID ALLOWING AN INCUMBENT MEMBER SERVING A PRISON SENTENCE TO RETAIN HIS SEAT PENDING THE OUTCOME OF HIS APPEAL WOULD CREATE CONSIDERABLE UNCERTAINTIES THAT WOULD BE AGAINST THE INTERESTS OF BOTH HIS CONSTITUENCY AS WELL AS THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
"THE EXISTING DISQUALIFICATION PROVISIONS ENSURE THAT SUCH UNCERTAINTIES WILL NOT ARISE, AND IS NOT A PRE-JUDGMENT OF ANY APPEAL WHICH THE INCUMBENT MEMBER MAY LODGE," HE SAID.
UNDER CURRENT ELECTORAL LAWS, AN INCUMBENT MEMBER WHO HAS BEEN SENTENCED TO IMPRISONMENT FOR THREE MONTHS OR MORE WILL IMMEDIATELY BE DISQUALIFIED FROM HOLDING OFFICE.
/24 ........
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24
NO VISA REQUIREMENT FOR SHORT-TERM VISITORS FROM CHINA
THERE IS NO NEED FOR SHORT-TERM VISITORS FROM CHINA TO APPLY SEPARATELY FOR A VISA.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MARTIN BARROW IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR ASPREY SAID APART FROM THOSE TRANSITTING HONG KONG TO OTHER DESTINATIONS, NEARLY ALL SHORT-TERM VISITORS COME TO THE TERRITORY ON TWO-WAY PERMITS.
TRANSIENTS FROM CHINA ARE ALLOWED TO STAY IN THE TERRITORY FOR SEVEN DAYS VISA-FREE. THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED ON JUNE 17 THAT THE ARRANGEMENT WILL START ON AUGUST 1 THIS YEAR.
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TRAINING COURSES FOR ENGLISH TEACHERS *****
FOUR TRAINING COURSES WERE CONDUCTED FOR 131 NON-SUBJECT-TRAINED ENGLISH TEACHERS FROM 119 SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN THE 1992/93 SCHOOL YEAR.
SIMILAR COURSES WILL ALSO BE ORGANISED IN COMING SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ERIC LI IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID THE ADVISORY INSPECTORATE OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ORGANISED SPECIAL TRAINING COURSES AND WORKSHOPS EACH YEAR FOR NON-ENGLISH MAJOR TEACHERS.
THIS IS TO ENHANCE THEIR PROFICIENCY IN ENGLISH AND COMPETENCE IN TEACHING THE SUBJECT.
THE ADVISORY INSPECTORATE AND THE INSTITUTE OF LANGUAGE IN EDUCATION ALSO PROVIDE REGULAR TRAINING COURSES OPEN TO ALL ENGLISH TEACHERS, WHETHER THEY ARE GRADUATES OF ENGLISH OR GRADUATES OF OTHER DISCIPLINES, HF ADDED.
IN ADDITION, SUBJECT INSPECTORS OF THE DEPARTMENT PROVIDE OTHER ADVISORY SERVICES, INCLUDING CONSULTATION SESSIONS, FOR ENGLISH TEACHERS WHO NEED ASSISTANCE.
MR LEUNG ALSO NOTED THAT UNDER THE EDUCATION REGULATIONS, A UNIVERSITY GRADUATE NOT MAJORING TN ENGLISH LANGUAGE OR ENGLISH LITERATURE MIGHT TEACH ENGLISH IF HE WAS A REGISTERED TEACHER, OR A PERMITTED TEACHER POSSESSING THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS:
/♦GRADE E .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
25
* GRADE E OR HIGHER GRADE IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE (SYLLABUS B) IN THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION; OR
* GRADE E OR HIGHER GRADE IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE IN THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION (ENGLISH) EXAMINATION; OR
» A PASS IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE IN THE HONG KONG ENGLISH SCHOOL CERTIFICATE, THE HONG KONG CHINESE SCHOOL CERTIFICATE, OR THE HONG KONG SCHOOL CERTIFICATE; OR
* A KNOWLEDGE OF ENGLISH OF A STANDARD WHICH IN THE OPINION OF THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION IS EQUIVALENT TO GRADE E IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE (SYLLABUS B) IN THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION.
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GOVT ALL OUT TO SOLVE CROSS-BORDER CONGESTION
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ *
THE GOVERNMENT HAS UNDERTAKEN A NUMBER OF INITIATIVES TO EASE CONGESTION AND TO SPEED UP CLEARANCE TIMES AT THE LO WU TERMINAL WHICH IS BEING BILLED AS THE WORLD’S BUSIEST SINGLE CROSSING-POINT.
THESE ARE IN ADDITION TO MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS ALREADY UNDER WAY.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY REV THE HON FUNG CHI-WOOD IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, SAID THESE INITIATIVES WERE:
* SEPARATE IMMIGRATION COUNTERS INTRODUCED LAST YEAR FOR RESIDENTS AND VISITORS;
* THE EASY TRAVEL SCHEME ENABLING PERMANENT IDENTITY CARDHOLDERS TO CLEAR IMMIGRATION MUCH MORE EASILY;
* EXTENSION OF THE OPENING HOURS OF LU WU TERMINAL BY ONE AND HALF HOURS LAST YEAR. THE TERMINAL NOW OPERATES 16 HOURS A DAY FROM 7 AM TO 11 PM; AND
♦ STARTING FROM AUGUST 1, THIS YEAR, ARRANGEMENT WILL BE MADE TO ALLOW TRANSITEES FROM CHINA TO STAY FOR SEVEN DAYS WITHOUT A VISA. THIS WILL ENABLE MANPOWER AT LO WU NOW EMPLOYED ON PAPER WORK FOR ISSUING VISAS TO BE DEPLOYED TO DIRECT COUNTER DUTY, THUS REDUCING QUEUES.
FURTHER, MR ASPREY SAID, ADDITIONAL IMMIGRATION STAFF WOULD BE PROVIDED FOR LO WU LATER THIS YEAR BY REDEPLOYING STAFF AS THE SCREENING OF VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS WAS COMPLETED.
HE SAID TWO-WAY PERMIT HOLDERS FROM CHINA WERE ALREADY
PERMITTED TO USE ENTRY POINTS OTHER THAN LO WU.
/A LARGE .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
26
A LARGE PROPORTION OF ORGANISED TOURS FROM HONG KONG ALSO USE OTHER ENTRY POINTS.
WITH EFFECT FROM AUGUST 1, CHINESE NATIONALS TRANSITING THROUGH HONG KONG WILL BE PERMITTED TO USE ANY OF THE OTHER LAND AND SEA CONTROL POINTS.
THIS WILL RELIEVE LO WU FURTHER, MR ASPREY SAID.
AS FOR MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS, HE SAID A MAJOR EXTENSION TO THE LO WU TERMINAL WAS DUE TO BE COMPLETED IN 1995.
THIS WILL PROVIDE AN ADDITIONAL 72 IMMIGRATION COUNTERS, AN INCREASE OF 82 PER CENT.
HE SAID THE INTRODUCTION OF OPTICAL READERS IN THE SAME YEAR WOULD ALSO SPEED UP SIGNIFICANTLY THE CLEARANCE OF HONG KONG IDENTITY CARD-HOLDERS, WHO ARE THE VAST MAJORITY OF BORDER-CROSSERS.
THE LO WU CROSSING-POINT WAS UNDER INCREASING PRESSURE, WITH PASSENGER TRAFFIC AVERAGING NEARLY 9,000 PEOPLE AN HOUR.
MR ASPREY SAID 90 PER CENT OF TRAVELLERS WERE BEING CLEARED WITHIN THE 30-MINUTE TARGET WAITING TIME.
"ONLY ON BUSY WEEKENDS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS ARE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT FAILING SIGNIFICANTLY TO REACH THE TARGET."
THE SECRETARY SAID OUT OF 84 MILLION PEOPLE CROSSING THE BORDER IN THE LAST TWO-AND-A-HALF YEARS, ONLY 52 FORMAL COMPLAINTS HAD BEEN RECEIVED.
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FACTORS TO AFFECT WATER CHARGES *****
THE TARGET RATE OF RETURN IS ONLY ONE OF THE FACTORS IN CONSIDERING THE APPROPRIATE LEVEL OF WATER CHARGES.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR WORKS, MR JAMES BLAKE, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON FRED LI IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR BLAKE SAID OTHER FACTORS SUCH AS PUBLIC ACCEPTABILITY AND INFLATION WOULD BE CAREFULLY ASSESSED.
’’TIME FRAME AND SPECIFIC PLANS FOR ACHIEVEMENT ARE CURRENTLY UNDER GENERAL REVIEW,” HE SAID.
MR BLAKE NOTED THAT THE TARGET RETURN OF SEVEN PER CENT, WHICH WAS A NOTIONAL FIGURE TO REFLECT THE FINANCING CHARGES AND OPPORTUNITY COST OF THE CAPITAL EMPLOYED FOR SUPPLYING WATER, WAS APPLICABLE TO BOTH DOMESTIC AND INDUSTRIAL CONSUMERS.
HE ADDED THAT THE ACTUAL RATES OF RETURN FOR THE PAST FIVE YEARS AND THOSE ANTICIPATED FOR THE NEXT TWO YEARS WERE ALL LOWER THAN THE TARGET RETURN OF SEVEN PER CENT.
/27........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
27
NO EXEMPTED MEDICAL PRACTITIONER PROSECUTED IN PAST THREE YEARS
THERE ARE AT PRESENT 149 UNREGISTRABLE MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS PRACTISING IN 137 CLINICS EXEMPTED UNDER SECTION 8 OF THE MEDICAL CLINIC ORDINANCE.
THE AVERAGE NUMBER OF ATTENDANCES PER YEAR IN THESE CLINICS OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS IS ABOUT 1,235,000.
BUT NO EXEMPTED CLINIC PRACTITIONER HAD BEEN PROSECUTED IN THE PAST THREE YEARS.
IN REPLY TO A WRITTEN QUESTION BY THE HON LAU WAH-SUM, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG SAID THE AVERAGE CHARGE PER CONSULTATION IN THE EXEMPTED CLINICS, INCLUDING A TWO DAY SUPPLY OF DRUGS, WAS ABOUT $35 IN THE PAST THREE YEARS.
MRS WONG EXPLAINED THAT THE MEDICAL CLINICS ORDINANCE EMPOWERED THE REGISTRAR OF CLINICS (THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH) TO EXEMPT CLINICS ESTABLISHED BEFORE 1963 FROM THE STATUTORY REQUIREMENT TO EMPLOY REGISTERED DOCTORS.
’’THIS ALLOWS UNREGISTRABLE MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS TO CONTINUE TO BE EMPLOYED, BUT, AT THE SAME TIME, THIS MECHANISM BRINGS THEM UNDER THE CONTROL OF THE AUTHORITY IN ORDER TO PROTECT THE INTERESTS OF PATIENTS,” SHE SAID.
’’PRACTITIONERS IN EXEMPTED CLINICS ARE SUBJECT TO A CODE OF PRACTICE ISSUED BY THE REGISTRAR REGARDING MODE OF PRACTICE, SCOPE OF FUNCTIONS AND STANDARD OF CONDUCT.”
EACH EXEMPTED CLINIC IS INSPECTED AT LEAST TWICE A YEAR BY STAFF OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, SHE ADDED.
ON THE REVIEW OF UNREGISTRABLE MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS, MRS WONG SAID MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ENACTED THE MEDICAL CLINICS (AMENDMENT) BILL IN DECEMBER 1984 TO RECOGNISE THE ROLE OF THESE PRACTITIONERS IN GRANTING THEM EXEMPTION.
IN REVIEWING WHETHER THIS EXEMPTION SHOULD BE RENEWED, MRS WONG SAID THE REGISTRAR’S PRIMARY CONCERN WAS TO PROTECT THE CONSUMER BY ENSURING COMPLIANCE WITH THE CODE OF PRACTICE.
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
28
LAND RESERVED IN TUEN MUN FOR CHEMICAL INDUSTRY ******
ABOUT 25 HECTARES OF LAND IN A 55-HECTARE SPECIAL INDUSTRIAL AREA IN TUEN MUN AREA 38 WILL BE RESERVED FOR THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY TO SERVE BOTH NEW DEVELOPMENTS AS WELL AS EXISTING FACILITIES WHICH MAY WISH TO MOVE THERE.
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).
MR EASON SAID RECLAMATION AND SERVICING WORKS THERE WERE SCHEDULED TO START IN THE MIDDLE OF NEXT YEAR FOR COMPLETION IN PHASES BY 1999.
THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT INTEND TO INITIATE OR ORGANISE RELOCATION ARRANGEMENTS, MR EASON SAID, ADDING THAT IT WOULD BE FOR OPERATORS TO DECIDE WHETHER TO RELOCATE THEMSELVES.
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HEART VALVE PATIENTS PROPERLY TREATED
******
THE INDEPENDENT INQUIRY BY A VISITING CARDIOLOGIST ON ALL BARUAH VALVE REPLACEMENTS PERFORMED AT THE PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL HAS CONCLUDED THAT PATIENTS HAVE BEEN PROVIDED WITH PROPER CARE AND MEDICAL TREATMENT.
THE INQUIRY WAS COMMISSIONED BY THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY FOLLOWING AN INCIDENT IN WHICH A PATIENT DIED AFTER UNDERGOING AN OPERATION INVOLVING IMPLANTATION OF BARUAH HEART VALVES AT THE PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL IN APRIL LAST YEAR.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MICHAEL HO MUN-KA IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID THE INQUIRY ALSO CONCLUDED THAT PATIENTS’ CONSENT HAD BEEN OBTAINED BEFORE THE OPERATIONS AND THAT THEY HAD BEEN GIVEN A FULL EXPLANATION OF THE POTENTIAL RISKS INVOLVED.
AS REGARDS THE INCIDENT IN QUESTION, THE FAMILY OF THE DECEASED PATIENT HAD BEEN PROVIDED WITH FULL REASONS ON THE CAUSE OF DEATH AND A POST-MORTEM REPORT.
’’HOWEVER, IT WOULD NOT BE APPROPRIATE TO MAKE PUBLIC THESE DETAILS IN THE INTEREST OF SAFEGUARDING THE RIGHT AND PRIVACY OF PATIENTS,” MRS WONG SAID.
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
- 29 -
NEW SCHEME TO HELP TEXTILES TRADE *****
THE TRADE DEPARTMENT HAS INTRODUCED A VOLUNTARY TEXTILES TRADERS REGISTRATION SCHEME TO FURTHER HELP TEXTILES TRADERS FROM JULY 1 THIS YEAR, THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR T H CHAU, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON HUANG CHEN-YA, MR CHAU SAID TEXTILES TRADERS REGISTERED UNDER THE SCHEME MIGHT IMPORT TEXTILES PRODUCTS, EXPORT SUCH PRODUCTS TO NON-RESTRAINED MARKETS AND RE-EXPORT THEM TO ALL MARKETS WITHOUT A LICENCE.
IN THE LONG RUN, THE PROCESSING OF EXPORT DOCUMENTS WOULD BE FURTHER FACILITATED THROUGH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF AN ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE SYSTEM, HE SAID.
THE SYSTEM, WHICH ENABLED TRADERS TO COMPLETE EXPORT DOCUMENTATION PROCEDURES THROUGH THE TRANSMISSION OF ELECTRONIC MESSAGES, WOULD OBVIATE THE NEED FOR THEM TO APPLY FOR THE DOCUMENTS IN PERSON.
AS A RESULT, TIME AND COSTS AS WELL AS PAPERWORK INVOLVED WOULD BE SUBSTANTIALLY REDUCED.
"THE CURRENT PLAN IS TO HAVE THIS SERVICE AVAILABLE TO TRADERS IN STAGES STARTING FROM 1995," MR CHAU SAID.
THE TRADE DEPARTMENT IS COMMITTED TO PROCESSING EXPORT LICENCE APPLICATIONS AND OTHER EXPORT DOCUMENTS AS EXPEDITIOUSLY AS POSSIBLE WITHOUT COMPROMISING THE INTEGRITY OF THE TRADE CONTROL SYSTEMS.
"OUR COMMITMENT TOWARDS THIS OBJECTIVE IS REFLECTED IN THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGES MADE BY THE TRADE DEPARTMENT TO ADHERE TO TARGET PROCESSING TIME OF ONE TO THREE WORKING DAYS FOR VARIOUS TYPES OF EXPORT DOCUMENTS," HE SAID.
THE SECRETARY ALSO STRESSED THAT IT WAS THE GOVERNMENT’S LONGSTANDING POLICY TO PROMOTE EFFICIENCY ON THE PART OF MANUFACTURERS IN PRODUCTION, MANAGEMENT (INCLUDING INVENTORY CONTROL) AND DELIVERY OF MANUFACTURED GOODS.
A WIDE RANGE OF SUPPORT SERVICES ARE PROVIDED BY THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT AND OTHER INDUSTRIAL SUPPORT ORGANISATIONS SUCH AS THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL.
THESE INCLUDE CONSULTANCY SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE COUNCIL ON PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY AS WELL AS MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS TO IMPROVE STOCK CONTROL.
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
30
FEW CHINESE TRANSITEES OVERSTAY IN HK
*****
PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (PRC) NATIONALS TRANSITTING HONG KONG HAVE CREATED FEW PROBLEMS IN RECENT YEARS WITH ONLY 0.02 PER CENT OVERSTAYED LAST YEAR, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THEY ARE NOW ALLOWED TO STAY IN THE TERRITORY IN TRANSIT FOR SEVEN DAYS WITHOUT VISAS.
"THIS PROMPTED THE CHANGE IN POLICY, WHICH WILL ALSO RESULT IN THE RELEASE OF STAFF FROM VISA-PROCESSING WORK TO MUCH-NEEDED COUNTER DUTIES AT LO WU,” HE SAID.
"WE WILL MAINTAIN EFFECTIVE PRE-ENTRY AND POST-ENTRY CONTROLS TO PREVENT OVERSTAYING," MR ASPREY TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON PANG CHUN-HOI.
PRC TRANSITEES ARE REQUIRED TO PROVE THAT THEY HAVE VALID PASSPORTS, VISAS AND ONWARD AIR TICKETS FOR THEIR DESTINATION COUNTRIES BEFORE THEY ARE ADMITTED INTO HONG KONG.
THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT’S COMPUTERISED PASSENGER MOVEMENT RECORD EXPOSES ANY TRANSITEE WHO HAS OVERSTAYED.
MR ASPREY SAID OVERSTAYERS WERE LIABLE TO PROSECUTION AND REMOVAL FROM HONG KONG.
REGARDING TAIWANESE VISITORS IN TRANSIT, HE SAID THERE WAS NO PLAN TO WAIVE VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR THEM.
VISAS OR PERMITS ARE REQUIRED FROM ALL VISITORS FROM ADMINISTRATIONS NOT RECOGNISED BY THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT, INCLUDING TAIWAN.
"HOWEVER, THE REQUIREMENTS FOR TAIWANESE VISITORS ARE NOT ONEROUS," HE SAID.
THEY CAN OBTAIN MULTIPLE VISIT PERMITS, AND DURING THE VALIDITY OF THEIR PERMITS, THEY CAN VISIT HONG KONG AS THEY WISH.
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NEW TRAFFIC CONTROL STATION FOR MA WAN CHANNEL *****
A CONTROL STATION WILL BE BUILT IN MA WAN CHANNEL TO ENHANCE THE SEA TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEM THERE.
ACCORDING TO THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, THE BUILDING IS DUE TO START LATER THIS YEAR.
MA WAN CHANNEL IS A MAJOR WATERWAY FOR OCEAN-GOING VESSELS PASSING THROUGH HONG KONG.
/IN A .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
31
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON J D MCGREGOR IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR ASPREY SAID THE MARINE DEPARTMENT MAINTAINED A TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEM THERE TO MINIMISE ANY POSSIBLE RISKS.
IN ADDITION, MR ASPREY SAID, PILOTAGE WAS COMPULSORY FOR ALL VESSELS OVER 5,000 GROSS REGISTERED TONS.
THE MARINE DEPARTMENT ALSO PROVIDES DEDICATED LAUNCHES FOR ESCORTING LARGE VESSELS IN TRANSIT AROUND MA WAN.
ALL LOCAL CRAFT, AND OCEAN-GOING VESSELS LOADING AND UNLOADING IN HONG KONG, ARE SUBJECT TO CONTROL UNDER LOCAL LAW.
SPECIFICALLY, THE CARRIAGE OF DANGEROUS GOODS ON VESSELS IS REGULATED BY THE DANGEROUS GOODS (SHIPPING) REGULATIONS, HE SAID.
OTHER VESSELS IN TRANSIT THROUGH HONG KONG ARE NOT SUBJECT TO THIS LAW, BUT THEY MUST COMPLY WITH ALL THE SAFETY STANDARDS LAID DOWN UNDER INTERNATIONAL MARITIME CONVENTIONS, THE SECRETARY ADDED.
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STAY EXTENSION CRITERIA FOR VISITORS ARE ADEQUATE
*****
THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT ONLY GRANTS EXTENSIONS OF STAY TO VISITORS WITH A GENUINE REASON TO STAY LONGER AND THE MEANS TO SUPPORT THEMSELVES LEGALLY IN THE TERRITORY, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON TAM YIU-CHUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR ASPREY SAID THESE CRITERIA WERE ADEQUATE.
"IT IS NOT OUR POLICY TO GRANT VISITORS EXTENSIONS OF STAY BEYOND ONE YEAR,” MR ASPREY SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT VISITORS, FOUND IN NON-APPROVED EMPLOYMENT IN THE TERRITORY, WERE IN BREACH OF THEIR CONDITIONS OF STAY.
UNDER SECTION 41 OF THE IMMIGRATION ORDINANCE, HE SAID, THEY WERE LIABLE TO PROSECUTION AND IF CONVICTED, TO A FINE OF $5,000 AND TO IMPRISONMENT FOR TWO YEARS.
"IF TOURISTS ARE PROSECUTED AND CONVICTED OF HAWKING WITHOUT A LICENCE, THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT IS UNLIKELY TO GRANT THEM ANY FURTHER EXTENSION OF STAY," MR ASPREY SAID.
HE SAID IMMIGRATION OFFICERS CONDUCTED SURPRISE VISITS TO LOCATIONS WHERE FOREIGN WORKERS WERE SUSPECTED TO BE ILLEGALLY EMPLOYED.
URBAN AND REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT STAFF ALSO TOOK ACTION AGAINST ALL UNLICENSED HAWKERS.
/THE URBAN .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 1993
32
THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT IN PARTICULAR DEPLOYS GENERAL DUTIES TEAM ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS TO PATROL CERTAIN AREAS WHERE FOREIGN HAWKERS TEND TO CONGREGATE.
A TOTAL OF ABOUT 1,000 ARRESTS OF FOREIGN HAWKERS WERE MADE BETWEEN 1990 AND MAY 1993.
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MEASURES TO PREVENT FALSE RESIDENCE BID *****
ADEQUATE CHECKS WILL BE TAKEN TO EXPOSE ANY ATTEMPT TO OBTAIN RIGHT OF ABODE IN HONG KONG ON JULY 1, 1997 BY FRAUDULENT MEANS FOR CHINESE CHILDREN WITH AT LEAST ONE PARENT WHO WAS A PERMANENT HONG KONG RESIDENT, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, SAID.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHIM PUI-CHUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR ASPREY SAID DETAILED ADMINISTRATIVE ARRANGEMENTS WOULD HAVE TO BE WORKED OUT WITH THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES.
THE GOVERNMENT WILL SUGGEST THAT THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES SHOULD VERIFY THE PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIP CLAIMED IN EACH APPLICATION AND PROVIDE DETAILS OF THE PARENT(S) FOR CHECKING WHETHER HE/SHE/THEY HAD PERMANENT RESIDENT STATUS AT THE TIME OF THE CHILD’S BIRTH.
A FURTHER CHECK WILL BE CONDUCTED BY INTERVIEWING THE CHILDREN WHEN THEY ENTER THE TERRITORY TO CONFIRM THAT THEY ARE INDEED THE CHILDREN IN THE APPLICATION, HE SAID.
MR ASPREY SAID: "STRICT PENALTIES FOR SUCH FRAUD ALREADY EXIST."
UNDER THE IMMIGRATION ORDINANCE, A PERSON WHO MAKES A FALSE STATEMENT OR REPRESENTATION TO AN IMMIGRATION OFFICER SHALL BE GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE, FOR WHICH HE OR SHE IS LIABLE TO IMPRISONMENT FOR UP TO 14 YEARS.
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33
LEGCO PASSES MOTION TO ENHANCE LEGISLATURE/EXECUTIVE LINKS *****
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TONIGHT PASSED A MOTION TO ESTABLISH A MORE EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE WORKING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE EXECUTIVE AND THE LEGISLATURE AFTER MORE THAN TWO HOURS OF DEBATE.
TWENTY MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE DEBATE PROPOSED BY THE HON VINCENT CHENG. THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SZE, REPLIED FOR THE GOVERNMENT.
ANOTHER MOTION MOVED BY THE HON ANNA WU ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN INDEPENDENT HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION WAS ALSO PASSED.
A TOTAL OF 19 MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE DEBATE WHICH LASTED MORE THAN TWO HOURS. MR SZE SPOKE ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT.
TWO MOTIONS MOVED BY THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE AND THE REGISTERED TRUSTEES INCORPORATION ORDINANCE RESPECTIVELY WERE PASSED.
A TOTAL OF FIVE BILLS WERE ALSO PASSED, TWO WITH AMENDMENTS.
THE TWO BILLS WITH AMENDMENTS WERE AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRES BILL AND FILM CENSORSHIP (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993.
THE OTHER BILLS PASSED WERE SUPPLEMENTARY APPROPRIATION (1992-93) BILL 1993, EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 AND IMPORT AND EXPORT (AMENDMENT) BILL 1992.
TWO BILLS WERE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS. THEY WERE CRIMINAL PROCEDURE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 AND LEVERAGED FOREIGN EXCHANGE TRADING BILL.
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Received by PRO on / Q JQL
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR IN LEGCO ........................................... 1
NEW SCHEME OF CONTROL AGREEMENT FOR HEC ..................... 15
REFUSE TRANSFER STATION FOR NT .............................. 16
TAXPAYERS URGED TO BE HONEST ................................ 17
EMPLOYMENT, VACANCIES AND PAYROLL FIGURES FOR MARCH ......... 19
POST REMITTANCE SERVICE TO GO ............................... 23
TEMPORARY VENUE FOR CAR MARKS AUCTION ....................... 24
STAMP SHEETLET TO MARK HK'94 EXHIBITION ..................... 25
AID TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIM'S FAMILY ..................... 25
EXHIBITION TO PROMOTE JOBS FOR DISABLED ..................... 26
BEACH WATER GRADES .......................................... 27
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .
30
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
GOVERNOR IN LEGCO
*****
FOLLOWING IS THE TRANSCRIPT OF A STATEMENT BY THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, AT THE LEGCO MEETING TODAY (THURSDAY):
I AM DELIGHTED TO HAVE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A BRIEF STATEMENT ON MY VISIT TO LONDON FROM THE 30TH JUNE TO THE 2ND JULY. WITH MEMBERS AGREEMENT, I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO SAY A FEW WORDS ABOUT THE FOREIGN SECRETARY’S VISIT ON THE 8TH AND 9TH JULY TO PEKING. I HAD A GOOD 48 HOURS IN LONDON. MINISTERS CONFIRMED THEIR SUPPORT FOR THE PRINCIPLES WHICH UNDERPIN OUR POSITION IN THE TALKS; FIRST THAT THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994 AND 1995 ELECTIONS SHOULD BE OPEN, FAIR AND ACCEPTABLE TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, A FAMILIAR PRINCIPLE BUT ONE THAT BEARS REPETITION; AND SECOND, THAT THERE SHOULD BE A GENUINE ’’THROUGH TRAIN” WITH CLEAR OBJECTIVE CRITERIA FOR THOSE LEGISLATORS WHO ARE ELECTED IN 1995. ON THAT POINT, DESPITE THE FLURRY OF PRESS SPECULATION AT THE TIME OF MY VISIT TO LONDON, THERE HAS BEEN ABSOLUTELY NO CHANGE IN OUR POSITION. I ALSO SAW IN LONDON, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE FOREIGN AFFAIRS SELECT COMMITTEE OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS AND THE LABOUR SPOKESMAN ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS. IT WAS A USEFUL OPPORTUNITY TO BRING THEM UP TO DATE AND A USEFUL REMINDER AS WELL OF THE STRONG CROSS PARTY SUPPORT THAT EXISTS AT WESTMINSTER FOR THE APPROACH WE HAVE TAKEN. MINISTERS ALSO ENDORSED OUR RECOMMENDATION THAT THE FOREIGN SECRETARY SHOULD VISIT PEKING. AS YOU KNOW, HE DID SO ON THE 8TH AND 9TH JULY, ACCOMPANIED BY THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS. IN PEKING, HE HAD USEFUL TALKS WITH VICE PREMIER AND FOREIGN MINISTER QIAN Q1CHEN, HE ALSO SAW PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY GENERAL JIANG ZEMIN. THE FOREIGN SECRETARY WENT TO PEKING, AS YOU KNOW, NOT TO NEGOTIATE BUT TO FOCUS ATTENTION ON WHAT WE REGARD AS ESSENTIAL IN THESE TALKS. THE FOREIGN SECRETARY DID NOT MENTION DEADLINES DURING HIS VISIT, JUST AS I HAVE AVOIDED RINGING DATES IN THE CALENDAR, BUT EVERYONE KNOWS THAT TIME MARCHES ON AND THAT THERE ARE PRACTICAL ARRANGEMENTS WHICH HAVE TO BE MADE IN GOOD TIME; SO WE CANNOT GO ON TALKING INDEFINITELY.
IN ADDITION TO THE CONSTITUTIONAL TALKS, THE FOREIGN SECRETARY ALSO COVERED THE TALKS IN THE AIRPORT COMMITTEE AND IN THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP. ON THE AIRPORT, HE EMPHASISED TO THE CHINESE SIDE THAT DELAY IS EXPENSIVE AND DAMAGING TO HONG KONG AND TO CHINA. HE RAISED THE CENTRAL AND WANCHAI RECLAMATION SCHEME AND I AM PLEASED TO SAY THAT THE CHINESE SAID THEY HAD NO OBJECTION TO THE FIRST PHASE OF THAT SCHEME. IT WILL NOW GO TO FINANCE COMMITTEE FOR CONSIDERATION. SO THAT IS PROGRESS, ALTHOUGH PLAINLY THERE IS A GREAT DEAL STILL TO DO. WE MUST WORK MORE QUICKLY IF CHEP LAP KOK IS TO BE COMPLETED ON TIME. SIMILARLY, THE FOREIGN SECRETARY UNDERLINED THE SERIOUSNESS OF THE PILE-UP OF WORK THAT WE NOW SEE IN THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP. MUCH OF IT VERY TECHNICAL, MUCH OF IT NOT INTRINSICALLY POLITICAL, BUT ALL OF IT ESSENTIAL IF THERE IS NOT TO BE A GAPING VOID IN THE LAWS OF HONG KONG WHEN SOVEREIGNTY CHANGES. I CANNOT EMPHASISE STRONGLY ENOUGH THE NEED TO GET CRACKING. SO A GOOD VISIT, CONDUCTED IN A CONGENIAL ATMOSPHERE, AS THE FOREIGN SECRETARY EMPHASISED, THE PROOF OF ITS SUCCESS OR OTHERWISE WILL COME IN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS. MEANWHILE, OUR NEGOTIATORS WORK ON. THERE WILL BE A FURTHER ROUND OF TALKS NEXT WEEK, AND, WE HOPE, A FURTHER ROUND IN AUGUST, THOUGH THE DETAILS REMAIN TO BE AGREED.
CHAIRMAN: MEMBERS WILL NOW PUT QUESTIONS TO THE GOVERNOR ON MATTERS ARISING FROM HIS ADDRESS. A MEMBER WHO HAS ASKED A QUESTION MAY, FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELUCIDATION ONLY, ASK A SHORT FOLLOW-UP QUESTION. A SHOW OF HANDS PLEASE.
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
2
MR CHEUNG MAN-KWONG: MR GOVERNOR, COULD YOU CLEARLY AND SPECIFICALLY TELL THIS COUNCIL THIS, LAST WEEK MR HURD IN HIS VISIT TO BEIJING DID HE TALK TO THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES ]N RELATION TO THE 94/95 CONSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS, HAS THERE BEEN ANY SECRET AGREEMENTS OR UNDERSTANDING IN RELATION TO THOSE ELECTIONS? IN OTHER WORDS, YOU’RE NOW STRESSING THE ’’THROUGH TRAIN”, HAVE YOU BECAUSE OF THIS GIVEN UP ON YOUR DEMOCRATIC CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT?
GOVERNOR: WELL OF COURSE THE FOREIGN SECRETARY TALKED ABOUT THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS. I THINK THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WOULD HAVE BEEN SURPRISED IF HE’D GONE TO PEKING AND NOT DONE SO AND ONE OF THE MAIN PURPOSES OF HIS VISIT, A REASON WHY WE ADVISED HIM TO GO AND INDEED URGED HIM TO GO, WAS TO TRY TO PROVIDE A GREATER POLITICAL IMPU1.SE FOR THE TALKS WHICH HAVE BEEN GOING ON FOR THE LAST FEW WEEKS AND MONTHS. BUT HE DIDN’T REACH A SECRET DEAL OR ANY SORT OF DEAL DURING HIS TALKS. HE WASN’T NEGOTIATING, HE WAS TRYING TO FOCUS THE TALKS ON WHAT WE REGARD AS THE PRINCIPAL ISSUES AND TO ENSURE THAT THE TALKS MAKE THE SORT OF PROGRESS WHICH EVERYBODY I’M SURE IN THIS LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WOULD LIKE TO SEE. OUR INTENTION IN THESE TALKS, AS I SAID EARLIER, IS TO SECURE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS WHICH ARE FAIR, OPEN AND ACCEPTABLE TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG AND THAT IN MY JUDGEMENT MEANS THAT WE REALLY DO HAVE TO RESOLVE THE DIFFERENCES THAT PLAINLY EXIST, ON IN PARTICULAR THE ROLE OF THE ELECTION COMMITTEE, ITS COMPOSITION AND THE WAY IT’S ARRIVED AT AND THE NEW FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES AND I THINK THERE ARE VIEWS WHICH MEMBERS HAVE, MANY MEMBERS HAVE ON THE WAY THE EXISTING FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES OPERATE AS WELL, SO WE NEED TO MAKE PROGRESS ON THOSE MATTERS. BUT I DON’T THINK IT WOULD MAKE VERY MUCH SENSE FOR US TO REACH SOME SORT OF AGREEMENT ON THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTIONS IN 1994/95 BUT NOT REACH AGREEMENT ON HOW LEGISLATORS COULD TRAVEL THROUGH THE TRANSFER OF SOVEREIGNTY IN 1997, PROVIDED THAT THEY WERE PREPARED TO MEET THE SAME SORT OF OBJECTIVE TESTS WHICH EXIST TODAY. SO, I WOULDN’T REGARD SECURING SOME SORT OF AGREEMENT ON ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENTS BUT NO AGREEMENT ON THE "THROUGH TRAIN” IS ACCEPTABLE AND EQUALLY IMPROBABLE THOUGH IT WOULD BE I GUESS, I WOULDN’T REGARD IT AS ACCEPTABLE TO REACH AN AGREEMENT ON THE "THROUGH TRAIN" BUT NOT ABOUT THE ELECTORAL
ARRANGEMENTS FOR 94/95. IF WE’RE TALKING ABOUT A SMOOTH TRANSITION, IF WE’RE TALKING ABOUT CONVERGENCE, THEN THAT MUST MEAN NOT JUST CONVERGENCE OF INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS BUT CONVERGENCE WHICH
INVOLVES THE ROLE OF LEGISLATORS AS WELL OTHERWISE I DON’T THINK IT WOULD MAKE VERY MUCH SENSE. NO SECRET DEAL, ANYTHING WHICH EMERGES FROM THESE TALKS AND WE HOPE THAT WE WILL HAVE, IN DUE COURSE, GOOD NEWS, DIFFICULT THOUGH THE JOB IS BUT ANYTHING THAT EMERGES FROM THESE TALKS WILL OF COURSE BE WIDELY DEBATED IN THE COMMUNITY AND I GUESS EXTENSIVELY, LENGTHY AND ALWAYS INTELLIGENTLY DEBATED BY THIS LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
MR CHEUNG MAN-KWONG: MR PRESIDENT, LAST YEAR THE GOVERNOR SAID THAT THESE DEMOCRATIC PROPOSALS ARE IN LINE WITH THE BASIC LAW AND IF THAT IS IN LINE WITH THE BASIC LAW THEN THERE MUST BE A "THROUGH TRAIN" AND SO WOULD YOU THEREFORE BE INSISTING ON THIS AND MAKE SURE THAT THIS WILL GO THROUGH STRADDLING THE TRANSFER OF SOVEREIGNTY?
/GOVERNOR ......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
3
GOVERNOR: I DON’T KNOW THAT I CAN REPEAT ANY MORE FIRMLY MY STRONG VIEW THAT A THROUGH TRAIN IS ESSENTIAL. IF WE’RE TO HAVE ANY SORT OF MEANINGFUL CONVERGENCE. FRANKLY, IT SEEMS TO ME THAT THE PRACTICAL PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH NOT SECURING A "THROUGH TRAIN” ALSO NEED TO BE ADDRESSED. WHAT ARE CANDIDATES TO SAY WITHOUT SOME AGREEMENT ON A "THROUGH TRAIN” WHEN THEY’RE CAMPAIGNING IN 1995? ARE THEY TO SAY, VOTE FOR ME AND I’LL EITHER BE THERE FOR TWO YEARS OR I’LL BE THERE FOR FOUR BUT MAYBE YOU’D BETTER ASK THE NCNA IN 1996/97 WHETHER IT’S TO BE TWO YEARS OR FOUR. IT DOESN’T SEEMS TO ME THAT IT’S EXACTLY A RALLYING CRY AS ONE GOES FROM DOOR TO DOOR OR GOES CANVASSING ROUND THE FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCY. EQUALLY I HAVE NEVER BELIEVED THAT AS IT’S FIRST ACT OF SOVEREIGNTY CHINA WOULD ACTUALLY WANT TO THROW LEGISLATORS OUT OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AFTER THEY HAD BEEN DIRECTLY ELECTED. SO I THINK THAT SOME OF THE PRACTICAL PROBLEMS AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THIS NEED TO BE LOOKED AT. I THINK WE NEED TO APPLY A BIT OF COMMON SENSE TO THE ISSUE AND ASK OURSELVES WHETHER IF WE’RE CONCERNED ABOUT THE PROSPERITY AND STABILITY OF HONG KONG THERE SHOULD REALLY BE ANY ARGUMENT ABOUT THIS ISSUE AT ALL.
MR MICHAEL HO: MR PRESIDENT, THE GOVERNOR WAS REPEATING TO US THE THROUGH TRAIN" CONCEPT, AND THE GOVERNOR, IN FACT, HAS PUBLICLY SAID THAT THE BASIC LAW ARTICLE 104 HAS ALREADY SET OBJECTIVE CRITERIA FOR THE THROUGH TRAIN", THAT IS, LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS NEED ONLY PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE SAR AND ALSO UP HOLD THE BASIC LAW, AND THOSE WILL BE THE CRITERIA; SO MR GOVERNOR, HOW WILL YOU, IN RELATION TO FUTURE NEGOTIATIONS OR TALKS, THAT THE TEAM WILL HOLD ON TO SUCH VIEWS, AND WILL THEN WILL YOU BE ARRIVING AT AN AGREEMENT WITH CHINA ON CRITERIA FOR "THROUGH TRAIN" AND WILL WHAT LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS SAID PREVIOUSLY OR DID PREVIOUSLY BE FACTORS TO BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT?
/GOVERNOR .......
4
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
GOVERNOR: I DON’T THINK ONE COULD REGARD A TEST OF PREVIOUS OPINION AS AN OBJECTIVE CRITERIA. I AM NOT SURE HOW ONE COULD CONCEIVABLY WEIGH THAT FACTOR. LET’S BE ABSOLUTELY CLEAR WHAT I HAVE ARGUED FOR AND WHAT I THINK THE OVERWHELMING MAJORITY OF MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL HAVE ARGUED FOR IN THE PAST. NOBODY, AND I HOPE THAT WHEN THIS SENTENCE IS REPORTED, THE FOLLOWING SENTENCES IN THE PARAGRAPH WILL BE REPORTED ALSO; NOBODY IS ARGUING THAT THERE SHOULD BE AN ABSOLUTE GUARANTEE THAT EVERYONE WHO IS ELECTED IN A GIVEN ELECTION APPEARS IN THE LEGISLATURE AFTER 1997. I SAID, HOLD ON, I SAW THE WORDS 'WHY NOT’ ON THE HONOURABLE MEMBER’S LIPS. THERE ISN’T THAT GUARANTEE AT THE MOMENT. YOU COULD STAND FOR ELECTION, MEETING ALL THE QUALIFICATIONS OF CANDIDATURE, YOU COULD BE ELECTED AND THEN YOU COULD COME TO THIS HONOURABLE HOUSE AND REFUSE TO TAKE EITHER THE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE OR THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OATH, AND IN THOSE CIRCUMSTANCES YOU WOULDN’T BE ALLOWED TO TAKE YOUR PLACE IN THIS CHAMBER AND YOU WOULDN’T EITHER BE ALLOWED TO DRAW YOUR ALLOWANCES OR OTHER ENTITLEMENTS AS A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. SO THERE IS AN OBJECTIVE TEST FOR THOSE WHO WIN THE ELECTION BEFORE THEY TAKE UP THEIR POSITION AS LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS. I AM NOT ARGUING, I DON’T THINK ANYBODY IN THIS CHAMBER IS ARGUING THAT THE SITUATION SHOULD BE DIFFERENT AFTER 1997, BUT I AM ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN THAT IT SHOULD BE, GIVEN THE CHANGE OF SOVEREIGNTY, PRETTY MUCH THE SAME. WE KNOW FROM ARTICLE 104 THAT THOSE WHO DRAFTED THE BASIC LAW, TN THEIR WISDOM, POSITED AN OBJECTIVE SET OF CRITERIA AFTER 1997 FOR THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE, FOR JUDGES, FOR SENIOR CIVIL SERVANTS AND FOR LEGISLATORS. ALL I HAVE ARGUED, IS THAT IT SHOULD BE PERFECTLY POSSIBLE TO APPLY A SIMILAR OBJECTIVE SET OF CRITERIA FOR 1995/1997. I DON’T THINK THAT THAT SHOULD ACTUALLY TAKE MORE THAN FIVE MINUTES THOUGHT TO BOTH AGREE AND TURN INTO SOME SENSIBLE YARDSTICK. SO I REPEAT, WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR IS A SIMILAR CRITERION TO THAT WHICH EXISTS AT THE MOMENT. A CRITERION AT THE MOMENT WHICH WOULD, I GUESS, BE JUSTICIABLE, IF HONOURABLE MEMBERS WISH TO TAKE IT THAT FAR. WE NEED SOMETHING WHICH IS CLEAR, WE NEED SOMETHING WHICH IS EXPLICIT AND WE NEED SOMETHING WHICH WILL GIVE THE COMMUNITY THE SORT OF CONFIDENCE THAT IT WILL NEED IN THE ELECTIONS IN 1995. THAT’S WHAT WE’RE ARGUING FOR, THAT’S WHAT, IN MY JUDGMENT, THE "THROUGH TRAIN" MEANS, AND J CAN’T FOR THE LIFE OF ME SEE WHY ANYBODY SHOULD BE OPPOSED TO IT. IF THERE ARE ANY ARGUMENTS AGAINST IT I WOULD LOVE TO KNOW WHAT THEY ARE.
MR LEE WING-TAT: FROM WHAT YOU SAID JUST NOW YOU SAID THAT YOU AS WELL AS UK ADMINISTRATION INSISTED ON ONE PRINCIPLE. THAT IS THE 94/95 ELECTIONS MUST BE OPEN, FAIR AND ACCEPTABLE TO HONG KONG PEOPLE. I HOPE THAT YOU ARE REALLY GOING TO INSIST ON THIS PRINCIPLE. MR GOVERNOR, I THINK YOU UNDERSTAND THAT YOU’RE FACING ONE CHOICE, FIRST YOU CAN CHOOSE TO INSIST ON THE PRINCIPLE THAT 94/95 ELECTIONS MUST BE FAIR, OPEN AND ACCEPTABLE TO HONG KONG PEOPLE. ANOTHER CHOICE FOR YOU IS THAT IN ORDER TO REACH AN AGREEMENT THAT IS ACCEPTABLE TO THE CHINESE SIDE, YOU MAY HAVE TO MAKE MAJOR CONCESSIONS. MR GOVERNOR, I WOULD LIKE TO ASK YOU THIS, HOW CAN YOU THROUGH CONCRETE ACTIONS PROVE, I'M TALKING ABOUT CONCRETE ACTIONS I’M NOT TALKING ABOUT LIP SERVICE, HOW CAN YOU THROUGH CONCRETE ACTIONS SHOW THAT YOUR INSISTENCE ON THE PRINCIPLE OF 94/95 ELECTIONS BEING OPEN, FAIR AND ACCEPTABLE TO HONG KONG PEOPLE? FOR EXAMPLE, HAVE YOU CONSIDERED THIS, YOU AND YOUR GOVERNMENT WHEN REACHING AN INITIAL AGREEMENT BUT BEFORE ACTUALLY SIGNING IT, ARE YOU GOING TO BEFORE THAT CONSULT THIS LEGCO?
/GOVERNOR .......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
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GOVERNOR: LET ME STRESS ONCE AGAIN AT THE OUTSET THAT WE ARE TAKING PART IN THESE NEGOTIATIONS IN GOOD FAITH. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE A SATISFACTORY OUTCOME, JUST AS THE COMMUNITY WOULD LIKE TO SEE A SATISFACTORY OUTCOME. I HAPPEN TO THINK THAT IT WOULD BE WORSE FOR HONG KONG TO HAVE AN OUTCOME, AN AGREEMENT IN THE TALKS, WHICH PRODUCED ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENTS WHICH WEREN’T OPEN AND FAIR AND ACCEPTABLE THAN TO HAVE NO AGREEMENT AT ALL. I THINK IT WILL BE SAD IF WE CAN’T REACH AN AGREEMENT BUT HONG KONG WILL SURVIVE AND WE’LL DO OUR BEST IN THE NEXT FOUR YEARS TO ENSURE THAT THERE ARE DECENT AND REASONABLE ARRANGEMENTS IN PLACE, WHICH I DON’T BELIEVE A SENSIBLE INCOMING SOVEREIGN POWER WOULD WISH TO CHANGE. BUT I REPEAT, I REPEAT VERY CLEARLY, I WOULD LIKE ABOVE ALL TO SEE AN AGREEMENT. NOW THE HONOURABLE MEMBER ASKS ME PERFECTLY REASONABLY WHAT DO I MEAN BY OPEN, FAIR AND ACCEPTABLE. ARE THERE OTHER WAYS OF ARRANGING THINGS IN 1994/95 OTHER THAN THE PROPOSALS I PUT FORWARD WHICH WOULD BE OPEN, FAIR AND ACCEPTABLE AND I HAVE TO SAY HAND ON HEART THAT THERE ARE OTHER WAYS IN WHICH YOU CAN SECURE THAT OBJECTIVE. WHAT WE’RE NOT PREPARED TO DO IS TO THROW AWAY THE PRINCIPLES EVEN IF WE’RE PREPARED IN A GENEROUS SPIRITED WAY TO LOOK AT WAYS OF ACCOMPLISHING THOSE PRINCIPLES. I THINK THAT AT THE END OF THE DAY, IF WE REACH AN AGREEMENT, IT WILL BE PERFECTLY CLEAR WHETHER OUR ARRANGEMENTS MEET THE CRITERIA WHICH I’VE SET. YOU CAN’T TELL WHEN THERE'S A LOT OF RUSTLING IN THE SHRUBBERY WHETHER THERE’S A PANDA OR A BIG BEAR BEHIND THE BUSHES, BUT YOU SURE ENOUGH KNOW WHEN THEY EMERGE INTO THE DAYLIGHT WHICH IS WHICH. AND I THINK AT THE END OF THESE NEGOTIATIONS PEOPLE WILL KNOW WHETHER THE ARRANGEMENTS THAT WE’RE PROPOSING, WHICH WILL BE WIDELY DEBATED HERE, WHICH WILL BE WIDELY DEBATED IN THE COMMUNITY, MEET THE CRITERIA FOR WHICH THIS COUNCIL HAS VOTED ON I THINK A NUMBER OF OCCASIONS. WE WILL HAVE TO PUT PROPOSALS TO THIS COUNCIL BECAUSE THIS COUNCIL WILL HAVE TO VOTE THROUGH THE LEGISLATION AND I DON’T WISH TO BE IN THE SAME POSITION THAT WE FOUND OURSELVES IN A YEAR OR SO AGO, PRE-PATTEN, ON THE COURT OF FINAL APPEAL. I DON’T WANT TO FIND OURSELVES IN A POSITION IN WHICH THIS COUNCIL IS AT ODDS WITH US ON WHATEVER COMES OUT OF NEGOTIATIONS, SO I WOULDN’T WISH TO RECOMMEND TO THIS COUNCIL PROPOSALS WHICH I DIDN’T THINK THIS COUNCIL WOULD FIND ACCEPTABLE.
MR LEE WING-TAT: A SHORT FOLLOW-UP. THANK YOU MR PRESIDENT. I WOULD LIKE TO ASK MR GOVERNOR THIS: YOU STRESS THAT LEGCO IS GOING TO EXAMINE THE RESULTS OF THE SINO-BRITISH TALKS AND SO THIS IS ONE WAY TO ENSURE THAT THERE WILL BE PUBLIC OPINION FEEDBACK BUT MR GOVERNOR I WOULD LIKE TO REMIND YOU THAT NOT ALL MEMBERS SITTING ON THE COUNCIL ARE DIRECTLY ELECTED AND SO APART FROM TABLING THE BILL AT LEGCO, WHAT OTHER MEANS DO YOU HAVE TO ENSURE THAT YOU KNOW WHAT IS THE PUBLIC OPINION ON THE SINO-BRITISH TALKS RESULTS?
/GOVERNOR .......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
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GOVERNOR: I DARESAY THERE WILL BE MANY DI FEERENT INTERPRETATIONS ON PUBLIC OPINION. I’VE BEEN INTERESTED OVER THE LAST MONTHS IN HOW, DESPITE THE FACT THAT VIRTUALLY EVERY OPINION POLL THERE’S BEEN HAS SHOWN SUBSTANTIAL SUPPORT FOR THE SORT OF PROPOSALS THAT WE PUT LAST AUTUMN, SOME PEOPLE HAVE STILL MANAGED TO ARGUE THAT THE PUBLIC AREN’T ACTUALLY IN FAVOUR OF THEM. SO THERE’S PLENTY OF SCOPE FOR BEING LIBERAL IN ONE’S INTERPRETATIONS OF PUBLIC OPINION. BUT I THINK THAT THIS COUNCIL IS THE BEST REFLECTION OF PUBLIC OPINION THOUGH I RECOGNISE THAT THE HONOURABLE MEMBERS THINKS IT’S AN IMPERFECT REFLECTION BECAUSE IT ISN’T ENTIRELY ELECTED AS IT WILL BE IN 1995. WE WILL HAVE TO REACH A JUDGEMENT WHICH WILL BE BASED BOTH ON WHAT WE CAN GAUGE FROM THE COMMUNITY OUTSIDE THIS COUNCIL AND FROM WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM OUR CONTACTS WITH MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL AND FROM DEBATES THAT TAKE PLACE WITHIN THIS COUNCIL. BUT I REPEAT THAT I DON’T THINK THAT IT WOULD BE CONDUCIVE TO POLITICAL STABILITY FOR THE GOVERNOR AND THE GOVERNMENT OF HONG KONG TO BE FACED FOR THE NEXT FOUR YEARS OF BRITISH SOVEREIGNTY AND FOR MANY YEARS AFTER THAT OF CHINESE SOVEREIGNTY WITH A PUBLIC WHICH IS HOSTILE TO THE GOVERNING ARRANGEMENTS WHICH WE HAVE PROPOSED FOR THE GOOD OF THIS COMMUNITY. POLITICAL STABILITY MUST INVOLVE NOT JUST THE ABILITY OF A GOVERNMENT TO EXERCISE AUTHORITY BUT ITS ABILITY AS WELL TO COMMAND THE LOYALTY AND THE HEARTS AND MINDS OF THE PUBLIC. THAT’S NOT A THREE LEGGED STOOL OR ANY OTHER PIECE OF FURNITURE, WHAT THAT IS IS A SENSIBLE APPROACH TO GOVERNMENT IN THE 1990’S.
MR FRED LI WAH-MING: MR PRESIDENT, THE BRITISH HAVE ALWAYS STRESSED THIS POINT, THAT IS, THEY ARE STILL FOURSQUARE BEHIND YOUR CONSTITUTIONAL PACKAGE. YET, WE’VE HEARD, AND IT HAS BEEN REPORTED, THAT AT THE NEGOTIATION TABLE THEY ARE NOW ON TO FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES, AND THE NEW NINE FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES; AND THE CHINESE SIDE HAS ALREADY GIVEN SUGGESTIONS TO THE NINE NEW ONES AND THAT DISCUSSION IS NOW UNDERWAY. SO OBVIOUSLY, YOUR SUGGESTIONS AS TO BROADENING THE FRANCHISE FOR THE NINE NEW FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES IS NOW GONE, SO MY QUESTION IS HAVE YOUR PROPOSALS VANISHED, IT’S NO LONGER ON THE NEGOTIATION TABLE, THAT IS?
/GOVERNOR .......
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GOVERNOR: I UWE SAID EROM THE OUTSET, THOUGH IT WOULD BE TEMPTING FOR ME TO GO BEYOND IT, I HAVE SAID FROM THE OUTSET THAT I DON’T THINK IT WOULD HELP THE SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION OF THE TALKS TO SET OUT IN DETAIL EXACTLY WHAT IS HAPPENING AT EVERY STAGE OF THE NEGOTIATIONS. I HAVEN’T ABANDONED THE PRINCIPLES WHICH 1 ENUNCIATED EARLIER, NOR HAS THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT, NOR, OF COURSE, HAVE THOSE WHO ARE NEGOTIATING IN THE NAME OF THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT. THERE HAVE BEEN A NUMBER OF RUMOURS ABOUT WHAT MAY OR MAY NOT BE HAPPENING, MOST OF WHICH BEAR LITTLE RELATIONSHIP TO THE TRUTH. I GUESS THAT IS AN INEVITABLE CONSEQUENCE OF HAVING TO NEGOTIATE IN CONFIDENCE. BUT WE WERE TOLD BEFORE THESE TALKS THAT TALKS COULD ONLY TAKE PLACE IF WE ABANDONED, BURIED, INCINERATED OUR PROPOSALS. WE HAVEN’T DONE SO; TALKS ARE TAKING PLACE. ALL SORTS OF OTHER THINGS HAVE BEEN SAID IN THE LAST
YEAR ABOUT WHAT MAY OR MAY NOT HAPPEN UNLESS WE DID WHATEVER THE NCNA
WANTED, OR WHATEVER SENIOR CHINESE OFFICIALS WANTED; AND LIFE HAS
TURNED OUT, HAPPILY, TO BE RATHER DIFFERENT FROM THOSE DIRE AND
CATASTROPHIC PREDICTIONS. SO I THINK THAT I CAN BEST RESPOND TO THE HONOURABLE MEMBER BY SAYING THAT WE ARE PREPARED, IN GOOD FAITH, TO LOOK AT ALTERNATIVE WAYS OF SECURING THE PRINCIPLES AND OBJECTIVES WHICH I MENTIONED EARLIER. WE ARE PREPARED TO REGARD WHAT I SAID LAST AUTUMN AS PROPOSALS, RATHER THAN ARGUMENTS FIXED IN CONCRETE. BUT AT THE END OF THE DAY, WE WILL BE JUDGED BY THIS CLEAR TEST. HAVE YOU PUT FORWARD PROPOSALS WHICH MAKE THE LIMITED DEMOCRATIC STEP WHICH
ONG KONG IS TAKING IN 1995 CREDIBLE OR NOT? A LOT OF HONOURABLE MEMBERS IN THIS CHAMBER WOULD LIKE THE ARGUMENT TO BE ABOUT AN XTENSION OF DEMOCRACY FOR HONG KONG. I UNDERSTAND THAT. IT’S NOT AN EXTENSION OF DEMOCRACY FOR HONG KONG, IT’S ABOUT WHETHER AGREED PROGRESS TOWARDS GREATER DEMOCRACY IS TO BE CREDIBLE OR IS TO BE INCREDIBLE, THAT’S WHAT IT’S ABOUT. AND I AM DETERMINED THAT IT ilOULD BE CREDIBLE, BECAUSE IF IT IS NOT CREDIBLE, THERE IS NO POINT IN TAKING THAT STEP.
MR SZETO WAH: MR GOVERNOR, TODAY TN THE NEWSPAPER THERE WAS AN ARTICLE SAY’'” THAT A CERTAIN HONG KONG PERSON WHO WAS GOING TO BEIJING TO l [PATE IN A MEETING OF THE WORKING PANEL OF THE PREPARATORY OMMITTEE AND THAT PARTICULAR PERSON NAMED SEVERAL, ACTUALLY NAMED AN INDIVIDUAL LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, SAYING THAT HE WOULD NOT BE ELIGIBLE FOR A ’’THROUGH TRAIN”, AND THAT PERSON ALSO LISTED THE EASONS WHY THESE COUNCILLORS WILL NOT BE ABLE TO RIDE THE ’’THROUGH TRAIN”. IF WHAT HE SAID WAS TO BE THE CRITERIA THAT WOULD BE AGREED :> BY BOTH THE SINO-BRITISH GOVERNMENTS, DO YOU THINK THAT THAT ITERIA IS ACCEPTABLE?
GOVERNOR: OF COURSE NOT. IF THAT IS THE STANDARD OF THE ADVICE WHICH THAT PARTICULAR DISTINGUISHED INDIVIDUAL IS GIVING TO THE GOVERNMENT IN CHINA, THEN J DON’T THINK THEY WILL BE AS WELL INFORMED AS THEY DESERVE TO BE. THE TRUTH OF THE MATTER IS, THAT WITHOUT GETTING INVOLVED IN THE NAMING OF INDIVIDUALS, OBJECTIVE MEANS OBJECTIVE, AND IT DOESN’T MEAN ASKING WHETHER YOU LIKE, WHAT OPINIONS PEOPLE HAD FOUR OR FIVE YEARS’ AGO, OR HOW MANY BUTTONS THEY HAVE ON THEIR CUFF, OR
HAT THEIR ASTROLOGICAL SIGN IS. THAT CANNOT CONCEIVABLY BE A WAY OF MAKING DEMOCRATIC ARRANGEMENTS CREDIBLE FOR THIS COMMUNITY. I DON’T WANT THE ARGUMENT TO BE ABOUT INDIVIDUALS, THOUGH I AM SURE OTHERS WILL TRY TO SEE IT IN THAT SENSE. I THINK THAT IT IS INCONCEIVABLE •THAT IN A COMMUNITY WHICH BELIEVES IN THE RULE OF LAW, YOU CAN APPLY, SUBJECTIVELY, RULES TO SOME WHICH DON’T APPLY TO THE OTHERS, AND WHICH HAVE EVERYTHING TO DO WITH OPINION AND SIMILAR TESTS RATHER THAN \NYTHING OBJECTIVE. SO IF WE’RE CONCERNED ABOUT THE RULE OF LAW, WE SHOULD BE CONCERNED ABOUT OBJECTIVE CRITERIA FOR MEMBERS OF THIS LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL; AND IF WE ARE NOT TO APPLY THOSE CRITERIA, THEN HEAVEN HELP THE RULE OF LAW IN HONG KONG.
/MR RONALD .......
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THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
MR RONALD ARCULLI: MR CHAIRMAN, I WONDER WHETHER I COULD GO AWAY FROM CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT ISSUES AND ON THE SAME THEME ABOUT DISCUSSIONS WITH CHINA PUT A QUESTION TO THE GOVERNOR, THROUGH YOU SIR, AND THAT IS THIS. IN TERMS OF THE WESTERN HARBOUR TUNNEL CROSSING AND IN TERMS OF THE SORT OF INTERESTING AND HEATED DEBATE THAT WE’VE HAD OVER THE PAST TEN DAYS OR TWO WEEKS, I WONDER WHETHER IT’S POSSIBLE THAT ON ECONOMIC ISSUES AFFECTING HONG KONG, WHICH MAY OR MAY NOT FORM PART OF JLG AGENDA AND PARTICULARLY IF IT DID, IS IT POSSIBLE, CAN THE GOVERNMENT OR THE GOVERNOR SEE SOME WAY OF TAKING SOUNDINGS, CONSULTING MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL, WHETHER INFORMALLY OR FORMALLY SO THAT SOME SORT OF STEER WOULD BE OBTAINED BY THE GOVERNMENT AND SOME FORM OF YOU KNOW GUIDANCE OR GUIDELINES OR WHATEVER ONE CHOOSES TO CALL IT IN ORDER TO TRY AND ARRIVE AT A TRANSACTION OR AN ISSUE, BEARING IN MIND THE VIEWS THAT MIGHT BE EXPRESSED IN THIS COUNCIL?
GOVERNOR: THERE ARE OBVIOUSLY DIFFICULTIES WHEN YOU’RE DEALING WITH A SENSITIVE COMMERCIAL NEGOTIATION BUT I GUESS WE’VE ALL IN THIS COUNCIL AND IN THE EXECUTIVE LEARNED ONE OR TWO LESSONS IN THE LAST WEEK OR SO AND IT’S IN OUR INTERESTS, IN THE EXECUTIVE, IF WE TAKE A LEAD IN TRYING TO LEARN FROM THOSE LESSONS AND AVOID SIMILAR DIFFICULTIES IN THE FUTURE. IT WON’T SURPRISE THE HONOURABLE MEMBER TO KNOW THAT I BELIEVE VERY STRONGLY THAT THE DECISION ON THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING IS ENORMOUSLY IMPORTANT NOT JUST FOR THE INFRASTRUCTURE OF HONG KONG BUT FOR HONG KONG’S REPUTATION IN THE INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL COMMUNITY. I THINK THAT THIS COMMUNITY MANAGES BETTER THAN ALMOST ANY OTHER IN THE WORLD TO USE PRIVATE SECTOR INVESTMENT FOR PUBLIC GOOD. IT DOES IT IN AN EXTREMELY COMPETENT, SOPHISTICATED WAY AND I KNOW OF NOWHERE ELSE THAT CAN DO IT AS WELL. FOR THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING TO GO WRONG WILL I THINK RAISE SUBSTANTIAL QUESTIONS TN THE MINDS OF POTENTIAL INVESTORS ABOUT WHETHER HONG KONG CAN CONTINUE TO PRACTISE BOT PROJECTS, PRIVATE SECTOR INVESTMENT IN THE INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE FUTURE AS WELL AS IT HAS IN THE PAST AND I THINK FOR THE DECISION TO GO WRONG WOULD ALSO RAISE PERHAPS UNFAIRLY, QUESTIONS IN SOME PEOPLE’S MJ NDS ABOUT THE POLITICISATION OF ECONOMIC ISSUES IN HONG KONG. SO 1 VERY MUCH HOPE THAT THE DECISION WILL GO THE RIGHT WAY NEXT WEEK AND I CAN ASSURE THE HONOURABLE MEMBER THAT WE WILL TRY TO LEARN SOME LESSONS FROM THE DISCUSSIONS OVER THE LAST WEEK OR SO THOUGH I HAVE TO SAY AS AN EX-LEGISLATOR MYSELF THAT I DIDN’T REGARD IT AS NECESSARILY A ROLE OF THE MOTHER OF PARLIAMENTS TO GET INVOLVED IN EVERY PRIVATE COMMERCIAL SETTLEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR. LOOKING AFTER PUBLIC FUNDS I ALWAYS THOUGHT WAS OUR JOB RATHER THAN POLICING PRIVATE FUNDS.
MISS CHRISTINE LOH: THANK YOU PRESIDENT. WHEN THE FOREIGN SECRETARY WAS HERE LAST WEEK, HE SAID THAT WHEN HE WAS IN PEKING HE BROUGHT UP THE SUBJECT OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE APPLICATION OF THE TWO INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COVENANTS. THE CHINESE REAFFIRMED THEIR COMMITMENT TO THE PROMISES IN THE JOINT DECLARATION BUT I BELIEVE THERE WAS NO SUBSTANTIVE DISCUSSION ON HOW THEY WOULD FULFILL THAT OBLIGATION. ARE YOU AND IS THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT SATISFIED WITH THAT RESPONSE WITH ONLY LESS THAN FOUR YEARS LEFT?
/GOVERNOR .......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
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GOVERNOR: PLAINLY ONE OF THE REASONS WHY THE FOREIGN SECRETARY RAISED THE QUESTION WITH HIS DISTINGUISHED OPPOSITE NUMBER WAS BECAUSE WE'RE NOT WHOLLY SATISFIED ABOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE FUTURE. LET’S BE CLEAR, THE COMMITMENT TO THE TERMS OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION IS WRITTEN INTO NOT ONLY THE JOINT DECLARATION BUT ALSO INTO THE BASIC LAW. WE KNOW THAT ONE OF THE TERMS OF THAT AGREEMENT TO THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION IS REGULAR REPORTING BY, IN THE PRESENT CASE, BRITAIN WHICH IS THE SOVEREIGN POWER. THAT REGULAR REPORTING WILL, AS I UNDERSTAND IT, STILL BE REQUIRED OF CHINA THE FUTURE SOVEREIGN POWER EVEN THOUGH CHINA IS NOT HERSELF A SIGNATORY OF THE CONVENTION. I DON’T WISH ONE COUNTRY, TWO SYSTEMS, STANDING ABOVE ME TO COMMENT ON WHAT CHINA SHOULD OR SHOULD NOT DO BUT IT’S HARDLY SURPRISING IN THESE CIRCUMSTANCES THAT THE BRITISH FOREIGN SECRETARY SHOULD ARGUE THAT THE SIMPLEST WAY OF RESOLVING THIS MATTER WOULD BE FOR CHINA, THOUGH IT’S A MATTER FOR THE EXERCISE OF CHINESE SOVEREIGNTY, HERSELF TO SIGN UP TO THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANTS. THAT’S PLAINLY THE EASIEST WAY OF RESOLVING THE ISSUE AND IT SEEMS TO ME THAT IT WOULD BE A WAY OF RESOLVING THE ISSUE WHICH WOULD PROVIDE A GREAT DEAL OF CONFIDENCE IN HONG KONG AND A GREAT DEAL OF CONFIDENCE IN THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY WHICH LOOKS TOWARDS A SUCCESSFUL HONG KONG AS AN IMPORTANT INGREDIENT IN THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF THE REGION.
MR PRESIDENT: THE GOVERNOR WILL NOW ADDRESS THE COUNCIL ON THE SUBJECT OF LAW AND ORDER.
GOVERNOR: I’M VERY PLEASED TO BE ABLE TO DISCUSS THIS VITAL TOPIC WITH HONOURABLE MEMBERS THIS AFTERNOON. LAW AND ORDER IS A SUBJECT AFTER ALL ABOUT WHICH THE COMMUNITY IS UNDERSTANDABLY AND RIGHTLY CONCERNED. THE TERM EMBRACES A WIDE RANGE OF RESPONSIBILITIES, THE WORK OF OUR POLICEMEN AND WOMEN ON THE BEAT, THE EFFECTIVENESS OF OUR JUDICIAL SYSTEM, ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION, SMUGGLING, HUMAN RIGHTS, CORRUPTION. A WHOLE SERIES OF DISPARATE SUBJECTS, BUT ONE FOUNDATION UNDERPINS THEM ALL -THE RULE OF LAW. THE RULE OF LAW FORMS THE BEDROCK OF OUR FREEDOMS AND OUR WAY OF LIFE IN THIS TERRITORY. ONE OF THE MOST INSIDIOUS THREATS TO THAT RULE OF LAW IS CORRUPTION. IT IS ON THE INCREASE AND WE MUST FIGHT IT WITH ALL THE MEANS AT OUR DISPOSAL. THE ICAC WILL BE IN THE VANGUARD BUT IT WILL BE UP TO ALL OF US, BUSINESS LEADERS, COMMUNITY LEADERS, MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL TO JOIN TOGETHER IN STATING IN THE PLAINEST TERMS CORRUPTION IN HONG KONG WOULD DESTROY HONG KONG AND WE WILL NOT TOLERATE IT. THE SAME GOES FOR ORGANISED CRIME AND TRIAD ACTIVITIES. THERE IS NOTHING GLAMOUROUS ABOUT TRIADS; THEY EXTORT MONEY FROM SHOPKEEPERS AND HAWKERS, FROM PUBS AND FROM CLUBS, FROM THE DRIVERS OF BUSES AND TAXIS. THEY MASTERMIND PIMPING, THEY PUSH DRUGS TO OUR YOUNG PEOPLE, THEY'RE INVOLVED IN EVERY KIND OF CRIME. WE MUST CONFRONT THIS MENACE. THE ORGANISED AND SERIOUS CRIMES BILL IS NOW UNDER CONSIDERATION BY THIS COUNCIL. IT PROPOSES MUCH TOUGHER INVESTIGATIVE POWERS FOR THE POLICE IN CRACKING DOWN ON CRIMINAL SYNDICATES. IT WILL NOT SOLVE ALL THE PROBLEMS WE FACE OVERNIGHT BUT IT WILL HELP US TO COMBAT THE TRIAD SCOURGE. I HOPE HONOURABLE MEMBERS WILL GIVE IT SPEEDY PASSAGE.
/WE MUST .......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
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WE MUST OF COURSE KEEP OUR CRIME PROBLEMS IN PERSPECTIVE. HONG KONG IS ONE OF THE FEW COMMUNITIES IN THE WORLD THAT ACTUALLY HAS FALLING CRIME RATES, SOME TWO PER CENT DOWN COMPARED WITH THE SAME TIME LAST YEAR. THIS IS A GREAT TRIBUTE TO OUR POLICE FORCE; I PAY WARM TRIBUTE TO THEM TODAY. THEIR PROFESSIONALISM, COMMITMENT AND DEDICATION TO DUTY, NOT TO MENTION THEIR COURAGE ARE SECOND TO NONE. AND IT’S A STRONGER POLICE FORCE TOO, WITH BETTER EQUIPMENT AND MORE MEN AND WOMEN ON THE BEAT FIGHTING CRIME AROUND THE CLOCK. SINCE LAST OCTOBER WE’VE PUT A FURTHER 350 POLICE OFFICERS ON THE BEAT AND THE NUMBERS ARE RISING EVERY MONTH. THERE ARE LIMITS TO WHAT WE CAN DO TO TACKLE CRIME IN HONG KONG ON OUR OWN. WE HAVE TO WORK CLOSELY TOGETHER WITH THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES IN STAMPING OUT CROSS-BORDER CRIMES SUCH AS SMUGGLING, CAR THEFT AND THE IMPORT OF ILLEGAL WEAPONS. ALREADY WE’RE DOING SO AND I WARMLY WELCOME THE IMPROVED CO-OPERATION THAT WE’VE SEEN OVER THE LAST YEAR. IT’S GOOD FOR HONG KONG AND IT’S GOOD FOR CHINA TOO. FINALLY I’D LIKE TO THANK HONOURABLE MEMBERS FOR ALL YOU DO TO SPEAK OUT AGAINST CRIME AND TO EXHORT THE GOVERNMENT TO FURTHER MEASURES TO STRENGTHEN LAW AND ORDER IN HONG KONG AND I WOULD OF COURSE WANT ALSO TO COMMEND THE WORK UNDERTAKEN IN THE COMMUNITY BY THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEES.
MR PRESIDENT: MEMBERS MAY NOW PUT QUESTIONS TO THE GOVERNOR ON LAW AND
ORDER. A SHOW OF HANDS PLEASE.
PRESIDENT: MEMBERS MAY NOW PUT QUESTIONS TO THE GOVERNOR ON LAW AND ORDER. A SHOW OF HANDS PLEASE.
MR JAMES TIEN: THANK YOU MR PRESIDENT. GOVERNOR, THIS COUNCIL YESTERDAY PASSED A RESOLUTION CALLING FOR THE SETTING UP OF A HUMAN
RIGHTS COMMISSION. DO YOU THINK THIS MATTER REQUIRES TO BE AT THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP, AND IF NOT, WILL YOU, AS RECONSIDER THE ADMINISTRATION’S POSITION YESTERDAY ESTABLISHING A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION?
DISCUSSED GOVERNOR, AGAINST
GOVERNOR: PERHAPS I CAN, FIRST OF ALL, WELCOME THE HONOURABLE MEMBER BACK TO A CHAMBER WITH WHICH HE IS FAMILIAR. I DON’T THINK I CAN ADD TO WHAT THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS SAID ABOUT A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION YESTERDAY. I THINK THE EXCHANGE THAT 1 HAD WITH THE HONOURABLE MEMBER EARLIER ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR HONG KONG ARE OF MORE RELEVANCE THAN SETTING UP ANOTHER STATUTORY BODY. IT IS NOT AN ISSUED ON WHICH I'VE GOT AN ENTIRELY CLOSED MINI), BUT I THINK IT’S MORE IMPORTANT TO MAKE PROGRESS IN THAT AREA THAN TO LOOK AT NEW INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS. AFTER ALL, PRESUMABLY ONE OF THE FIRST QUESTIONS THAT A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION WOULD ASK ITSELF IS HOW IT COULD BE SURE THAT THE SORT OF RIGHTS WHICH IT WAS POLICING AND SEEKING TO SECURE COULD BE MAINTAINED AFTER 1997 WITHOUT THE AGREEMENT MENTIONED EARLIER. THE HONOURABLE MEMBER IS ENTIRELY RIGHT IN SAYING WERE WE TO CHANGE OUR MIND, WHICH IS NOT IMPOSSIBLE, AND TO MAKE PROPOSALS IN THIS SECTOR, WE WOULD NEED TO DISCUSS THE MATTER IF IT WAS TO HAVE ANY LONG-TERM, MEANINGFUL SIGNIFICANCE IN THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP, OR INFORMALLY OUTSIDE IT. THERE WOULDN’T BE MUCH POINT IN SETTING UP A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION WHICH WASN’T GOING TO LAST VERY LONG INTO THE FUTURE.
/MR JAMES .......
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11
MR JAMES TO: JUST NOW THE GOVERNOR SAID THAT LEGCO IS THE BEST REFLECTION OF PUBLIC OPINION. ON THE 24TH APRIL, LEGCO URGED THE ADMINISTRATION TO SET UP AN INDEPENDENT COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE AGAINST THE POLICE, THAT IS, OUTSIDE THE POLICE FORCE, 1 WOULD LIKE TO KNOW THE PROGRESS ON THIS. I THINK ON THE WHOLE THE POLICE FORCE IS DESERVING OF OUR COMMENDATION, BUT TO HAVE AN INDEPENDENT COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE AND SYSTEM TO MONITOR THE POLICE FORCE AND TO WEED THE POLICE FORCE OF SOME UNRULY ELEMENTS IS REALLY GOING TO INJECT MORE CONFIDENCE OF OUR PEOPLE IN TO THE POLICE FORCE. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW THE PROGRESS ON THIS.
GOVERNOR: I KNOW THIS IS A SUBJECT WHICH HONOURABLE MEMBERS FEEL QUITE STRONGLY ABOUT. I HAVE TO SAY THAT I THINK THE MOST SENSIBLE WAY TO PROCEED IS, FIRST OF ALL, TO LOOK AT THE SPECIFIC AND SENSIBLE PROPOSALS FOR CHANGE WHICH HAVE BEEN MADE BY THE POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE, TO IMPLEMENT THOSE AND TO SEE HOW FAR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THOSE PROPOSED REFORMS MEETS SOME OF THE PUBLIC ANXIETIES WHICH PRESUMABLY CONCERN THE HONOURABLE MEMBER. WE ALL WANT TO ENSURE THAT OUR POLICE HAVE THE MAXIMUM SUPPORT FROM THE COMMUNITY, AND WE ALL RECOGNISE THAT WILL INVOLVE, FROM TIME TO TIME, TAKING TOUGH MEASURES WHEN AN INDIVIDUAL POLICE OFFICER FALLS BELOW THE HIGHEST PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS OF HIS OR HER COLLEAGUES. WE EQUALLY, I’M SURE, ALL RECOGNISE THE IMPORTANCE TO A GOOD AND EFFECTIVE POLICE FORCE OF HIGH POLICE MORALE, AND WHAT WE ARE FACED WITH IS A PROBLEM OF BALANCING THOSE TWO FACTORS, BUT FOR THE TIME BEING, THE CONCERN OF THE ADMINISTRATION IS TO ENSURE THAT THE PCC’S RECOMMENDATIONS ARE CARRIED INTO ACTION AND PERHAPS WE CAN REVIEW WHETHER WE NEED TO GO FURTHER IN THE LIGHT OF PROGRESS ON THAT FRONT.
MR WONG WAI-YIN: ... THE GOVERNOR SAID THAT THE ADMINISTRATION WILL HAVE TO LOOK AT THE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE BEFORE DECIDING WHERE TO GO FROM THERE. BUT ON THE 24TH APRIL, THERE WAS SOME LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR WHO WISHED TO AMEND THE MOTION SO THAT THE IMPROVEMENT PROPOSALS WOULD BECOME PART OF THE MOTION BUT IT WAS TURNED DOWN AND SO I THINK IF LEGCO REFLECTS PUBLIC OPINION, SUCH PUBLIC OPINION AS REFLECTED SHOULD BE RESPECTED OR IS IT THAT IF THE ADMINISTRATION WANTS TO PASS SOMETHING THAT IT WOULD ACCEPT FAVOURABLE PUBLIC OPINION OR IF IT’S SOMETHING THAT THE ADMINISTRATION FEELS IS NOT FAVOURABLE TO THE ADMINISTRATION THEN THE ADMINISTRATION WILL REJECT LEGCO OPINION ON GROUNDS OF RESOURCES AND OTHER SIMILAR. FACTORS?
GOVERNOR: NO, LET ME PUT A SIMPLE AND RATHER OBVIOUS POINT TO THE HONOURABLE MEMBER. I GUESS IT’S FAIR TO SAY THAT THE BEST REFLECTION OF PUBLIC OPINION IN THE UNITED STATES IS THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES BUT BOTH OF US ARE AWARE OF THE FACT THAT THAT DOESN’T MEAN THAT EVERY PRESIDENT AND EVERY EXECUTIVE AGREE WITH EVERYTHING THAT CONGRESS SAYS, THAT’S NOT EVEN THE CASE WHERE THE MAJORITY IN THE CONGRESS COMES FROM THE SAME PARTY AS THE PRESIDENT. THE EXECUTIVE HAS TO EXERCISE ITS JUDGEMENT AND HAS TO EXPLAIN IT’S JUDGEMENT TO A LEGISLATURE BUT WE WON’T ALWAYS FIND OURSELVES, I FEAR, IN TOTAL HARMONY AND AMITY. I HOPE OVER THE YEARS THAT WE’LL HAVE MORE HARMONY THAN DISHARMONY BUT WE WON’T ALWAYS FIND OURSELVES TOTALLY IN AGREEMENT.
/MR WONG .......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
- 12 -
MR WONG WAI-YIN: THANK YOU. TO MAINTAIN LAW AND ORDER IN HONG KONG WE NEED A GOOD POLICE FORCE. AS MR GOVERNOR YOU SAID A MINUTE AGO, MORALE IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO OUR POLICE FORCE. MY QUESTION FOR THE GOVERNOR IS THIS, IN RELATION TO THE MORALE OF THE POLICE FORCE NOW, IF IT HINGES ON THE NUMBER ONE LICENCE PLATE FOR VEHICLE, IS THIS REALLY DANGEROUS ACTUALLY? IF YOU DO FEEL THAT THIS IS RATHER DANGEROUS, WHAT MEASURES WOULD YOU TAKE TO DO SOMETHING SO THAT THE NUMBER ONE LICENCE PLATE WILL NOT BE THE SOURCE OF MORALE FOR THE POLICE?
GOVERNOR: I APPROACH ANSWERING THIS QUESTION WITH TREPIDATION SINCE I HADN’T REALISED BEFORE I CAME TO HONG KONG HOW MUCH POLITICAL PASSION
COULD BE ENGENDERED BY A LICENCE PLATE. I’M ALSO INCLINED TO DEFER TO MY HONOURABLE FRIEND THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY WHO HAS VIEWS ON THESE MATTERS WHICH HE’S ACTED ON. I DON’T THINK THAT ANYBODY IS ARGUING SERIOUSLY THAT THE MORALE OF THE POLICE IS WHOLLY DEPENDENT ON THE NUMBER ON THE COMMISSIONER’S CAR. BUT IF THERE IS A VIEW IN THE POLICE THAT THIS COULD HAVE SOME IMPACT THEN I THINK ALL OF US WHO WANT TO GIVE THE POLICE EVERY SUPPORT HAVE TO TAKE THAT INTO ACCOUNT. I THINK THAT THERE ARE FACTORS WHICH ARE MUCH MORE IMPORTANT IN
DETERMINING POLICE MORALE. I THINK THE POLICE HAVE TO FEEL THAT THEY ARE GETTING THE RESOURCES WHICH THEY REQUIRE AND THAT’S WHY WE’RE SPENDING SEVEN BILLION MORE IN RECURRENT EXPENDITURE ON THE POLICE THAN WE WERE LAST YEAR. I THINK THE POLICE HAVE TO FEEL THAT THEY’RE GETTING THE EQUIPMENT WHICH THEY NEED, I THINK THEY HAVE TO FEEL THAT THEY HAVE THE RECRUITMENT WHICH GIVES THEM THE NUMBERS REQUIRED TO DO THE JOB THE COMMUNITY EXPECTS OF THEM. I THINK THEY HAVE A RIGHT NOT
TO HAVE THEIR PROFESSIONAL JUDGEMENT ENDLESSLY QUESTIONED WHEN THEY HAVE TO EXERCISE IT VERY OFTEN IN HARROWING CIRCUMSTANCES WITH SPLIT SECOND TIMING AND HAVE TO SHOW THE SORT OF BRAVERY THAT MOST OF US AREN’T REQUIRED TO DISPLAY IN OUR DAY TO DAY LIVES. SO, THE POLICE I THINK LOOK TO OTHER MATTERS TO BOLSTER THEIR MORALE AND I SUSPECT ABOVE ALL THE RECOGNITION THAT THEIR MISSION AND WHAT THEY ARE DOING IS CENTRAL TO THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE COMMUNITY. WHEN I SPEAK ABOUT THE POLICE IN THOSE TERMS I’D LIKE TO REFER AS WELL TO THE OTHER DISCIPLINED SERVICES. I SPENT AN EVENING RECENTLY WITH SOME OF THE SENIOR OFFICERS IN THE FIRE SERVICE, I DOUBT WHETHER THERE IS A BETTER FIRE SERVICE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD. SO, MORALE I THINK GOES BEYOND NUMBER PLATES. IF NUMBER PLATES HAVE A PART IN MORALE, SO BE IT.
MRS SELINA CHOW: THANK YOU MR PRESIDENT. GOVERNOR, IN THE FACE OF APPARENT RISING CORRUPTION, AS REFLECTED IN THE NUMBER OF REPORTS, PARTICULARLY IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR, WHAT SPECIFIC MEASURES ARE BEING TAKEN OR WILL BE TAKEN BY GOVERNMENT TO STRENGTHEN PREVENTION, PARTICULARLY IN THE CIVIL SERVICE?
/GOVERNOR .......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
13
GOVERNOR: THE HONOURABLE MEMBER IS BOTH RIGHT AND NOT QUITE RIGHT. RIGHT TOTALLY IN THE PRIORITY WHICH SHE ACCORDS TO THIS SUBJECT, RIGHT IN SAYING THAT THERE HAS BEEN A PERCEPTIBLE INCREASE IN THE PROBLEM, A 30 PER CENT INCREASE IN REPORTS OF CORRUPTION OVER THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR. NOT WHOLLY RIGHT IN THE DISTINCTION WHICH SHE DRAWS BETWEEN PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTORS BECAUSE IF YOU LOOK AT THE INCREASE IN REPORTING, IT’S BEEN PRETTY MUCH THE SAME FOR BUSINESS AS IT HAS BEEN FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR THOUGH THE ABSOLUTE FIGURES MAY BE A LITTLE DIFFERENT. I THINK THAT FIRST OF ALL WE HAVE TO ENSURE THAT THE ICAC IS PROPERLY RESOURCED. THAT DOESN’T MEAN ANYMORE THAN IT DOES FOR THE POLICE THAT ONE CAN THROW OUT OF THE WINDOW ANY OF THE NORMAL TECHNIQUES AND PRACTICES OF GOOD MANAGEMENT AND PRUDENT FINANCING THAN ONE WOULD APPLY ANYWHERE ELSE BUT IT DOES MEAN THAT THE IMPORTANT FUNCTIONS OF THE ICAC SHOULDN’T BE LIMITED BY LACK OF RESOURCING. SECONDLY IT MEANS THAT WE HAVE TO ENSURE THAT THE PREVENTIVE WORK UNDERTAKEN BY THE ICAC AND THE EDUCATIONAL ROLE THAT IT CARRIES OUT IN THE COMMUNITY ARE BOTH PURSUED DILIGENTLY. THIRDLY, WE HAVE TO TRY TO ENSURE THAT WE’RE ABLE NOT ONLY TO INVESTIGATE BUT TO PROSECUTE AS FREQUENTLY AS POSSIBLE. WE ALSO IN MY VIEW HAVE TO IMPROVE OUR COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHINA. I’M PLEASED THAT THE ICAC HAVE DEVELOPED A GOOD INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THE PROCURATURE IN CHINA. I THINK THAT’S IMPORTANT BOTH FOR CHINA AND FOR US. FIGHTING CORRUPTION IS A JOINT CHALLENGE TO CHINA AND HONG KONG AND I THINK WE COULD BOTH DO OURSELVES SOME GOOD BY TACKLING IT JOINTLY. FINALLY, AS I INDICATED EARLIER, IT IS IMPORTANT FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY OR FOR LEADERS OF THE WHOLE COMMUNITY TO GIVE A LEAD IN UNDERLINING THAT CORRUPTION WHEREVER IT COMES FROM IS UNACCEPTABLE. THE HOME BASE OF A COMPANY, THE CONTACTS WHICH A COMPANY OR INDIVIDUAL MAY HAVE, NONE OF THOSE THINGS SHOULD MAKE ANY DIFFERENCE WHEN IT COMES TO RIGOROUSLY ROUTING OUT CORRUPTION, PREVENTING IT SEEPING IN TO HONG KONG AND DOING THE SORT OF DAMAGE WHICH WE ALL WANT TO AVOID IF AT ALL POSSIBLE.
MRS PEGGY LAM: THANK YOU MR PRESIDENT. I’D LIKE TO ASK MR GOVERNOR THIS QUESTION, AND IT HAS TO DO WITH LAW AND ORDER. RECENTLY, IT SEEMS THAT VIOLENT CRIMES IN HONG KONG HAVE BEEN ON THE INCREASE. I’D LIKE TO KNOW WHETHER THE GOVERNOR IS GOING TO STUDY WHY ARE THEY ON THE INCREASE. FOR INSTANCE, RECENTLY THERE HAVE BEEN TWO MURDERS AND THEY WERE NOT ONLY SIMPLY MURDERS, BUT THE BODIES WERE BEING VERY BRUTALLY HANDLED, AND SO I THINK WHETHER THE GOVERNMENT IS GOING TO THINK OF WAYS TO STOP SUCH BRUTAL CRIMES, AND WHAT DETERRENT MEASURES WILL BE THOUGHT OF BY THE GOVERNMENT. FOR. EXAMPLE, WHETHER CAPITAL PUNISHMENT WOULD BE CONSIDERED?
GOVERNOR: CAN I FIRST OF ALL, REFERRING BACK TO AN ANSWER I GAVE EARLIER, SAY THAT I MAY HAVE, SO I’M ADVISED BY ONE OF MY COLLEAGUES, ALONG THE WIRES, I MAY HAVE SAID THAT EXPENDITURE ON THE POLICE THIS YEAR WAS SEVEN BILLION DOLLARS MORE THAN LAST YEAR. IF I DID, I SHOULDN’T HAVE SAID THAT. RECURRENT EXPENDITURE ON THE POLICE THIS YEAR, LEAVING OUT CAPITAL, IS SEVEN BILLION DOLLARS WHICH HAS, AMONG OTHER THINGS, SECURED AN INCREASE OF ABOUT 350 IN THE NUMBER OF POLICE OFFICERS ON THE BEAT. IF I SUGGESTED OTHER THAN THAT EARLIER, THEN I AM HAPPY TO BE CORRECTED BY NAMELESS BUT BLESSED SUPPORTERS. IF, ON THE OTHER HAND, I GOT IT RIGHT EARLIER AND THEY ARE WRONG, I’LL HAVE A WORD WITH THEM AFTERWARDS.
/VIOLENT CRIME .......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
14
VIOLENT CRIME, ANY LEVEL OF VIOLENT CRIME IS TOO HIGH. TRUTH TO TELL, THE FIGURES FOR VIOLENT CRIME IN HONG KONG, UNUSUALLY, IF YOU LOOK AROUND THE WORLD, ARE ACTUALLY FALLING. THE OVERALL LEVEL OF CRIME IN THE LAST QUARTER FELL BY 2% OVER A SIMILAR PERIOD LAST YEAR. THE FIGURE FOR VIOLENT CRIME FELL BY 6%. NOW, THAT IS NOT A MATTER WHICH ANYBODY CAN BE COMPLACENT ABOUT. FOR ANYBODY WHO SUFFERS FROM VIOLENT CRIME, THERE’S A 100% INCREASE, AND PARADING STATISTICS FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY DOESN’T HAVE VERY MUCH EFFECT. SECONDLY, I RECOGNISE THAT INDIVIDUAL CALLOUS BRUTAL CRIMES, MURDERS, RAPES, GREATLY DISTURB THE COMMUNITY AND I SUSPECT THAT THE PICTURES OF SOME OF THOSE CRIMES WHICH APPEARS IN THE MEDIA FROM TIME TO TIME, ALSO RATHER DISTURB THE COMMUNITY. THEY CERTAINLY DISTURB ME. I THINK THAT THE BEST DETERRENT TO VIOLENT CRIME IS TO CATCH THOSE WHO COMMIT IT, WHICH IS WHY I’M GOING TO CONTINUE TO GIVE SUPPORT FOR THE POLICE SUCH A HIGH PRIORITY. I ALSO THINK THAT WE HAVE TO MAKE SURE THAT THE SENTENCES PASSED ON THOSE WHO COMMIT THESE CRIMES ARE ADEQUATE TO THE (•FFENCE; AND I THINK IT’S IMPORTANT THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SHOULD HAVE THE POWER, AS HE DOES, TO APPEAL AGAINST SENTENCES WHEN THEY SEEM INAPPROPRIATE. INAPPROPRIATE IN EITHER DIRECTION, OF COURSE, BUT CERTAINLY INAPPROPRIATE IF TOO LENIENT AND IF RAISING SERIOUS ISSUES OF PRINCIPLE AND CONCERN TO THE OVERALL COMMUNITY. I REALISE THAT PROBABLY IN HONG KONG, AS WAS THE CASE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM, MY OWN PERSONAL MORAL OBJECTIONS TO CAPITAL PUNISHMENT ARE NOT SHARED BY THE MAJORITY. I THINK THE MAJORITY OF THIS CHAMBER PROBABLY SHARES MY VIEWS ON THE SUBJECT, BUT I’M NOT SURE THAT THAT IS NECESSARILY TRUE OP THE COMMUNITY AT LARGE. BUT THERE ISN’T, IN MY JUDGMENT, WHATEVER ONES VIEWS ABOUT THE MORAL ARGUMENT FOR CAPITAL PUNISHMENT, THERE ISN’T MUCH EVIDENCE, WHEN YOU LOOK AROUND THE WORLD OF ANY CORRELATION BETWEEN THE AVAILABILITY OF CAPITAL PUNISHMENT AND THE LEVEL OF VIOLENT CRIME. WERE IT OTHERWISE, THEN THE UNITED STATES, I GUESS, COULD LOOK AT LEVELS OF VIOLENT CRIME SUBSTANTIALLY BELOW THOSE THAT EXIST IN HONG KONG, WHERE OUR OVERALL LEVEL OF CRIME IS NOW PROBABLY LESS THAN IN TOKYO, SINGAPORE, OR ALMOST ANYWHERE ELSE TN THE WORLD. SO I DON’T THINK THAT THERE IS A SORT OF MECHANICAL ARITHMETICAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE AVAILABILITY OF CAPITAL PUNISHMENT AND A DECLINE IN VIOLENT CRIME. THERE ARE CRIMES, I REPEAT, WHICH GREATLY AFFECT THE COMMUNITY. I THINK THAT SOME OF THE RAPES WHICH HAVE AFFECTED ONE PART OF OUR COMMUNITY RECENTLY MUST HAVE BEEN PARTICULARLY DISTURBING. WE MUST ALL HOPE THAT THE POLICE ARE ABLE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ATTACKS AS RAPIDLY AS POSSIBLE. RAPE IS, OF COURSE, AN ESPECIALLY DISGUSTING AND DEGRADING CRIME, AND SHOULD HAVE NO PART IN ANY SORT OF CIVILISED SOCIETY.
MR MARTIN BARROW: SIR, HAVING BEEN IN EUROPE OVER THE PAST WEEK, IT IS CLEAR THAT THERE REMAIN INTERNATIONAL MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT OUR STATE OF LAW AND ORDER. AS YOU’VE JUST SAID, WE MUST NOT BE COMPLACENT, BUT COULD YOU TELL US WHAT STEPS ARE BEING TAKEN TO PUT OVER THE MESSAGE INTERNATIONALLY THAT HONG KONG IS A SAFE CITY WITH LOWER TOTAL AND VIOLENT CRIME RATES THAN IN MANY OTHER. SIMILAR CITIES?
/GOVERNOR .......
15
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
GOVERNOR: THE HONOURABLE MEMBER IS ENTIRELY RIGHT BOTH ABOUT THE NEED TO PUT THE CASE ACROSS AND ABOUT ITS RELATIONSHIP TO SOME OF OUR PROPER ATTEMPTS AT SELF-PROMOTION, NOT LEAST AN AREA WHICH THE HONOURABLE MEMBER KNOWS MORE ABOUT THAN ANY OF US, NOT LEAST IN RELATION TO TOURISM. WHEN ONE READS AT THIS TIME OF YEAR, SOME OF THE STORIES OF ATTACKS, MURDERS OF TOURISTS IN OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD, NOT LEAST, OF COURSE, IN THE UNITED STATES, IT DOES MAKE ONE REALISE HOW MUCH WE HAVE TO OFFER TOURISTS. ALL OF US, I GUESS, WHO HAVE HAD THE EXPERIENCE OF BRINGING UP TEENAGE CHILDREN IN HONG KONG AND OUTSIDE HONG KONG WILL KNOW HOW MUCH SAFER WE FEEL THEY ARE IN HONG KONG THAN MOST OTHER PLACES THAT WE’VE EVER LIVED. SO IT’S AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO GET ACROSS. I THINK WE SHOULD LOOK AT WAYS IN WHICH WE CAN SPREAD THAT MESSAGE THROUGH OUR INFORMATION EFFORT ABROAD, AND PERHAPS SHOULD WORK MORE CLOSELY WITH THE TOURIST AUTHORITY IN GETTING ACROSS THE GOOD NEWS ABOUT HONG KONG WHICH, 1 REPEAT, IS ONE OF THE VERY FEW PLACES ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHICH CAN ACTUALLY POINT, WITHOUT ANY COMPLACENCY AT ALL, TO A FALLING LEVEL OF CRIME.
PRESIDENT: IN ACCORDANCE WITH STANDING ORDERS, I NOW ADJOURN THE SITTING UNTIL WEDNESDAY 21ST JULY 1993.
- - 0 - -
NEW SCHEME OF CONTROL AGREEMENT FOR HEC ♦ * * * t *
THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AND THE HONGKONG ELECTRIC COMPANY LIMITED (HEC) AND ITS PARENT COMPANY HONGKONG ELECTRIC HOLDINGS LIMITED TODAY (THURSDAY) SIGNED A NEW SCHEME OF CONTROL AGREEMENT (SCA) WHICH SETS OUT THE OBLIGATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF BOTH SIDES.
TAKING PART IN THE SIGNING CEREMONY WERE THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MR GORDON SIU AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONGKONG ELECTRIC COMPANY LIMITED, MR SIMON MURRAY.
MR SIU SAID THE NEW AGREEMENT, WHICH WILL START IN JANUARY 1994 AND EXTEND UNTIL THE END OF DECEMBER 2008, DEMONSTRATED THE CONTINUING COMMITMENT OF THE COMPANIES TO A PROSPEROUS FUTURE FOR HONG KONG.
IT ALSO PROVIDED A SOUND BASIS FOR FUTURE CO-OPERATION BETWEEN
THE GOVERNMENT AND THE COMPANIES, HE ADDED.
DISCUSSIONS ON RENEWAL OF THE CURRENT SCHEME OF CONTROL AGREEMENT, WHICH LAPSES AT THE END OF DECEMBER 1993, BEGAN LAST YEAR.
’’THE CURRENT SCHEME OF CONTROL AGREEMENT HAS WORKED WELL,” MR SIU SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT UNDER THE CURRENT SCA, HEC’S CONSUMERS ENJOY ONE OF THE MOST RELIABLE ELECTRICITY SUPPLIES IN THE REGION, WHILE TARIFFS HAVE REDUCED BY AROUND 40 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS.
’’THE COMPANIES HAVE INVESTED OVER $22 BILLION IN ASSETS DURING
THE COURSE OF THE CURRENT SCA,” MR SIU ADDED.
/HE ALSO
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
16
HE ALSO NOTED THAT HEC HAD SET UP CUSTOMER LIAISON GROUPS 1'0 HELP MAKE THE COMPANY MORE ACCOUNTABLE TO CONSUMERS AND HAD TAKEN STEPS TO REDUCE THE IMPACT OE POWER GENERATION ON THE ENVIRONMENT, FOR EXAMPLE BY INSTALLING EQUIPMENT TO REDUCE TO A MINIMUM EMISSION OF SULPHUR DIOXIDE FROM ITS NEW GENERATING UNITS.
’’THE KEY PROVISIONS OF THE NEW AGREEMENT REMAIN BASICALLY UNCHANGED. OUR AIM IS TO MAINTAIN AN EQUITABLE BALANCE BETWEEN THE INTERESTS OF SHAREHOLDERS AND CONSUMERS," MR SIU SAID.
UNDER ITS TERMS THE COMPANIES UNDERTAKE TO PROVIDE A SERVICE THAT IS NOT ONLY ADEQUATE TO MEET DEMAND BUT IS ALSO EFFICIENT, OF HIGH QUALITY, AT THE LOWEST REASONABLE COST AND TAKES ACCOUNT OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION POLICIES.
AT THE SAME TIME, THE AGREEMENT PROVIDES FOR SHAREHOLDERS OF THE COMPANIES TO RECEIVE A REASONABLE RETURN ON THEIR INVESTMENT, SO AS TO ENCOURAGE THEM TO CONTINUE TO MAKE NECESSARY INVESTMENTS.
’’IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROCEDURES AGREED IN THE SINO-BRIT1SH JOINT LIAISON GROUP A COPY OF THE NEW DRAFT AGREEMENT WAS PASSED TO THE CHINESE SIDE,’’ MR SIU SAID.
’’THE CHINESE SIDE HAS CONFIRMED THAT THEY HAVE NO OBJECTION TO THE TERMS OF THE NEW AGREEMENT OR TO ITS SIGNATURE," HE SAID.
"THUS THE FUTURE HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION GOVERNMENT WILL CONTINUE TO ACCEPT THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE NEW AGREEMENT AFTER JUNE 30, 1997."
AS PART OF THEIR OBLIGATIONS THE COMPANIES WILL CONTINUE TO SUBMIT, FOR GOVERNMENT SCRUTINY AND APPROVAL, THEIR FORECASTS OF DEMAND, DETAILS OF THE INVESTMENTS WHICH THEY CONSIDER NECESSARY TO MEET THAT DEMAND AND THE TARIFFS WHICH THEY BELIEVE NEED TO BE CHARGED OVER THE FORECAST PERIOD.
IMPORTANT NEW PROVISIONS, INCLUDING THOSE RELATING TO THE INTRODUCTION OF TECHNICAL AUDIT AND A PROGRAMME TO REDUCE THE GROWTH IN PEAK DEMANDS, HAVE ALSO BEEN INCORPORATED IN ORDER TO STRENGTHEN GOVERNMENT’S MONITORING PROCEDURES AND TO REQUIRE THE COMPANIES TO PROMOTE ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC CAN NOW OBTAIN A COPY OF THE NEW SCA FOR HEC FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE AT CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL.
------0-------
REFUSE TRANSFER STATION FOR NT
*****
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) SIGNED A CONTRACT FOR THE SHA TIN TRANSFER STATION, THE FIRST REFUSE TRANSFER STATION TO BE BUILT TN THE NEW TERRITORIES UNDER THE LONG-TERM WASTE DISPOSAL STRATEGY.
ITS CAPT1AL COST IS ABOUT $190 MILLION AND THE ANNUAL OPERATION COST IS ROUGHLY $20 MILLION.
/THE CONTRACT.......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
17-
THE CONTRACT WAS AWARDED TO SWIRE BFI WASTE SERVICES LTD, A 50/ 50 PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN SWIRE PACIFIC LTD AND BROWNING FERRIS INDUSTRIES INC.
SWIRE PACIFIC LTD IS A WELL-ESTABLISHED CORPORATION IN HONG KONG WHILE BROWNING FERRIS INDUSTRIES INC IS A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT COMPANY BASED IN THE USA.
SIMILAR TO OTHER WASTE MANAGEMENT PROJECTS, THE STATION WILL BE DEVELOPED UNDER A DESIGN, BUILD AND OPERATE CONTRACT ARRANGEMENT. THE CONTRACTOR WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR OPERATING THE STATION FOR 15 YEARS.
IT WILL BE BUILT TO VERY HIGH ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS AND BE CAPABLE OF PROCESSING 1,200 TONNES OF REFUSE DAILY.
A WASTE WATER TREATMENT PLANT AND ODOUR REMOVAL EQUIPMENT WILL BE INSTALLED INSIDE THE FACILITY TO ENSURE THAT NO NUISANCE IS CAUSED TO NEIGHBOURING RESIDENTS.
THE DEPARTMENT’S ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, MR MIKE STOKOE, SAID: "THE CONCEPT OF TRANSFERRING WASTE TO LANDFILL IN SEALED CONTAINERS HAS BEEN PROVEN TO BE ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND AND COST EFFECTIVE.”
’’THE INVOLVEMENT OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS HAS BEEN VERY SUCCESSFUL AND THE PROVISION OF THE SHA TIN TRANSFER STATION WILL ENHANCE THE EFFICIENCY OF REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT’S WASTE COLLECTION SERVICE.” ;
"THE PROJECT IS PART OF THE DEPARTMENT’S CONTINUING EFFORT TOWARDS IMPLEMENTING THE WASTE DISPOSAL STRATEGY SET OUT LN THE 1989 WHITE PAPER,” HE SAID.
THE WEST NEW TERRITORIES LANDFILL CONTRACT WAS SIGNED LAST MONTH AND, AS A FURTHER PROGRESS IN IMPLEMENTING THE WASTE DISPOSAL STRATEGY, TWO MORE LANDFILL CONTRACTS WOULD BE AWARDED THIS YEAR WHILE TWO REFUSE TRANSFER STATION CONTRACTS WOULD BE AWARDED NEXT YEAR, MR STOKOE SAID.
THE SHA TIN TRANSFER STATION IS THE THIRD STATION AMONG A NETWORK OF REFUSE TRANSFER STATIONS SERVICING THREE STRATEGIC LANDFILLS.
TWO TRANSFER STATIONS AT KOWLOON BAY AND ISLAND EAST HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFULLY COMMISSIONED IN 1990 AND LAST YEAR RESPECTIVELY.
- - 0 - -
TAXPAYERS URGED TO BE HONEST ♦ * * ♦ ♦
THE COMMISSIONER OF INLAND REVENUE, MR ANTHONY AU-YEUNG, URGED TAXPAYERS, PARTICULARLY PROFESSIONALS, TO MAKE AN HONEST EFFORT TO COMPLY WITH THE LAW AND PAY THE CORRECT TAX.
IF WE ARE TO MAINTAIN THE EQUITY AND INTEGRITY OF OUR TAXATION SYSTEM IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT ALL TAXPAYERS PAY THEIR CORRECT TAX," HE
SAID.
/HE POINTED
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
18
HE POINTED OUT THAT HONG KONG’S REPORTING REQUIREMENTS WERE NOT ONEROUS AND THE TAX RATES WERE AMONG THE LOWEST IN THE WORLD.
ADDRESSING THE ESTATE DOCTORS ASSOCIATION’S SEMINAR TODAY (THURSDAY), MR AU-YEUNG OUTLINED THE FIELD AUDIT PROGRAMME INTRODUCED IN JUNE 1991 AIMING TO GET FIRST-HAND KNOWLEDGE OF THE ACTUAL CIRCUMSTANCES OF BUSINESSES.
FIFTY-FOUR AUDITORS ARE NOW DEPLOYED TO VISIT THE BUSINESSES TO CHECK THE BOOKS AND RECORDS.
LAST YEAR THE FIELD AUDITORS EXAMINED THE RETURNS OF QUITE A DIVERSE GROUP OF BUSINESSES.
MR AU-YEUNG NOTED THAT SOME RETURNS FROM MEMBERS OF THE MEDICAL PROFESSION HAD ATTRACTED THE AUDITORS’ ATTENTION.
HE SAID IN ASSESSING THE APPROPRIATE LEVEL OF PENALTIES TO BE APPLIED, A NUMBER OF FACTORS WOULD BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT:
* CO-OPERATION OF THE TAXPAYER
IN RECOGNITION OF THE CO-OPERATION OF THE TAXPAYER IN HELPING TO QUANTIFY HIS CORRECT ASSESSABLE PROFITS, A LOWER LEVEL OF PENALTY WILL BE CONSIDERED.
* TIME INVOLVED
PENALTY LEVELS WILL BE INCREASED TO REFLECT THE TIME TAKEN TO COMPLETE THE AUDIT.
* DEGREE OF CULPABILITY
PENALTIES WILL BE INCREASED WHEN THE LEVEL OF CULPABILITY IS GREATER.
♦ COMMERCIAL RESTITUTION
THE PENALTY LEVEL WILL REFLECT AN ELEMENT OF COMMERCIAL RESTITUTION TO COMPENSATE THE GOVERNMENT FOR THE LOSS OF THE USE OF THOSE UNDERCHARGED TAX.
"UNTIL NOW, THE PENALTIES IMPOSED IN AUDIT CASES MAY, OVERALL, HAVE BEEN LESS THAN THOSE IMPOSED WHEN A FULL INVESTIGATION IS CARRIED OUT.
"THERE IS NO REASON WHY FIELD AUDIT PENALTIES MUST REMAIN AT THESE LOWER LEVELS, AND IF’ I FIND THAT THEY ARE NOT HAVING THE REQUIRED DETERRENT EFFECT, THEY CAN BE INCREASED,” HE SAID.
ANY PERSON WHO WILFULLY MAKES AN INCORRECT RETURN WITH THE INTENTION OF EVADING TAX PLACES HIMSELF AT THE RISK OF PROSECUTION IN THE COURTS.
UPON CONVICTION, IN ADDITION TO A HEAVY FINE OF UP TO THREE TIMES THE TAX UNDERCHARGED, THERE IS THE RISK OF A CUSTODIAL SENTENCE OF UP TO THREE YEARS.
/19 ........
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
EMPLOYMENT, VACANCIES AND PAYROLL FIGURES FOR MARCH ******
THERE WAS CONTINUED GROWTH IN EMPLOYMENT TN THE WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS SECTOR AND THE FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES SECTOR IN MARCH OVER A YEAR EARLIER.
MEANWHILE EMPLOYMENT IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR AND ON CONSTRUCTION SITES DECLINED FURTHER.
THE FALL IN MANUFACTURING EMPLOYMENT MAINLY REFLECTED THE CONTINUING STRUCTURAL CHANGE IN THE ECONOMY, IN CONNECTION WITH THE RELOCATION OF INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES TO CHINA.
VACANCIES IN MOST OF THE SERVICES SECTORS RECORDED INCREASES OF VARIOUS MAGNITUDES IN MARCH 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER. ON THE OTHER HAND, VACANCIES IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR AND ON CONSTRUCTION SITES FELL FURTHER.
IN THE MONTH, EARNINGS OF PERSONS ENGAGED CONTINUED TO SHOW FURTHER INCREASES IN MONEY TERMS OVER A YEAR EARLIER IN ALL MAJOR SECTORS. AFTER ADJUSTING FOR INFLATION, THERE WAS STILL AN INCREASE IN REAL TERMS OF EARNINGS OF PERSONS ENGAGED FOR MOST SECTORS.
THESE ARE FINDINGS OF SURVEYS CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THERE WERE 531,900 PERSONS ENGAGED IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR IN MARCH 1993, REPRESENTING A DECREASE OF 12.1% FROM MARCH 1992.
EMPLOYMENT IN THE WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS SECTOR, AT 911,300 IN MARCH 1993, WAS 5.6% HIGHER THAN IN MARCH 1992.
EMPLOYMENT IN THE FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES SECTOR, AT 313,900, WAS UP BY 3.4%.
EMPLOYMENT ON CONSTRUCTION SITES, AT 60,000, WAS 3.3% LOWER THAN IN MARCH 1992.
THE EMPLOYMENT FIGURES FOR MARCH 1993 IN SELECTED MAJOR ECONOMIC SECTORS, WITH COMPARISON WITH THE CORRESPONDING FIGURES FOR MARCH 1992 AND DECEMBER 1992, ARE:
/PERSONS ENGAGED ......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
20 -
SELECTED MAJOR SECTOR OF THE ECONOMY PERSONS ENGAGED (EMPLOYMENT) PERCENTAGE CHANGE
MAR 92 DEC 92 MAR 93 MAR 93 OVER MAR 92 MAR 93 OVER DEC 92
MANUFACTURING 605,200 565,100 531,900 -12.1 i cn
CONSTRUCTION (MANUAL WORKERS ON CONSTRUCTION SITES ONLY) 62,100 59,500 60,000 - 3.3 + 0.9
WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS 863,200 914,800 911,300 + 5.6 -0.4
FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES 303,400 314,500 313,900 + 3.4 -0.2
THE STATISTICS FOR SELECTED MAJOR SECTORS OF THE ECONOMY IN MARCH 1993 WERE DERIVED FROM THE QUARTERLY SURVEY OF EMPLOYMENT, VACANCIES AND PAYROLL AND THg QUARTERLY EMPLOYMENT SURVEY OF CONSTRUCTION SITES CONDUCTED BY THE DEPARTMENT.
THE SURVEY ON THE RETAIL TRADE EXCLUDED HAWKERS AND PERSONS WORKING AT RETAIL PITCHES BUT INCLUDED THOSE WORKING IN MARKET STALLS.
THE TWO SURVEYS ALSO PROVIDE THE VACANCY STATISTICS FOR SELECTED MAJOR SECTORS. THE VACANCY DATA TOGETHER WITH COMPARISON WITH THE CORRESPONDING FIGURES FOR MARCH 1992 AND DECEMI ER 1992 ARE:
I /NUMBER OF .......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
- 21 -
NUMBER OF REPORTED
VACANCIES PERCENTAGE CHANGE
SELECTED MAJOR SECTOR OF THE ECONOMY MAR 92 DEC 92 MAR 93 MAR 93 OVER MAR 92 MAR 93 OVER DEC 92
MANUFACTURING 25,060 17,690 18,490 -26.2 + 4.5
CONSTRUCTION (MANUAL WORKERS ON CONSTRUCTION SITES ONLY) 770 480 420 -45.8 -13.5
WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS 35,340 33,550 35,720 + 1.1 + 6.4
FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES 10,240 8,830 11,010 + 7.5 + 24.7
VACANCIES IN MOST MAJOR SERVICES SECTORS CONTINUED TO INCREASE IN MARCH 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER. IN THE WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS SECTOR AND THE FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES SECTOR, THE NUMBER OF VACANCIES INCREASED BY 1.1% AND 7.5% RESPECTIVELY.
HOWEVER, VACANCIES IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR AND ON CONSTRUCTION SITES FELL BY 26.2% AND 45.8% RESPECTIVELY.
THE MARCH 1993 NOMINAL INDICES OF PAYROLL PER PERSON ENGAGED IN SELECTED MAJOR SECTORS AND THE CORRESPONDING REAL INDICES (AFTER ALLOWING FOR THE EFFECTS OF PRICE CHANGES) ARE:
/NOMINAL INDEX .......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
22
NOMINAL INDEX OF PAYROLL PER PERSON ENGAGED (MARCH 1991 = 100) PERCENTAGE CHANGE
SELECTED MAJOR SECTOR OF THE ECONOMY MAR 92 MAR 93 MAR 9 3 OVER MAR 92
MANUFACTURING 111.0 128.4 + 15.7
WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS 115.7 122.9 + 6.2
FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES 108.5 124.8 + 15.0
REAL INDEX OF PAYROLL PER PERSON ENGAGED (MARCH 1991 =100) PERCENTAGE CHANGE
SELECTED MAJOR SECTOR OF THE ECONOMY MAR 92 MAR 93 MAR 93 OVER MAR 92
MANUFACTURING 101.4 108.8 + 7.3
WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS 105.7 104.2 - 1.4
FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES 99.1 105.8 + 6.8
BETWEEN MARCH 1992 AND MARCH 1993, AVERAGE EARNINGS IN ALL MAJOR SECTORS, AS MEASURED BY PAYROLL PER PERSON ENGAGED, RECORDED FURTHER INCREASES IN MONEY TERMS.
AN
INCREASE OF 15.7% WAS REGISTERED IN THE NOMINAL
INDEX FOR
THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR.
FOR THE WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND TMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS SECTOR, THE INCREASE WAS 6.2%.
FOR THE FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES SECTOR, THE INCREASE WAS 15.0%.
/AFTER DISCOUNTING
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
- 23 -
AFTER DISCOUNTING FOR INCREASES IN CONSUMER PRICES BETWEEN MARCH 1992 AND MARCH 1993, THE REAL INDEX OF PAYROLL PER PERSON ENGAGED IN MARCH 1993, AS COMPARED WITH THAT IN MARCH 1992, INCREASED BY 7.3% FOR THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR AND 6.8% FOR THE FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES SECTOR.
HOWEVER, THE REAL INDEX DECREASED BY 1.4 % FOR THE WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS SECTOR, PROBABLY AFFECTED BY THE HIGH BASE OF COMPARISON IN MARCH LAST YEAR.
DETAILED BREAKDOWNS OF THE STATISTICS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE QUARTERLY REPORT OF EMPLOYMENT, VACANCIES AND PAYROLL STATISTICS, MARCH 1993 AND THE QUARTERLY REPORT OF EMPLOYMENT AND VACANCIES AT CONSTRUCTION SITES, MARCH 1993.
THEY ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT $L7 A COPY AND $10.5 A COPY RESPECTIVELY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, HONG KONG AND AT THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT AT THE 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
--------0-----------
POST REMITTANCE SERVICE TO GO *****
THE POST OFFICE HAS DECIDED TO CEASE ITS REMITTANCE SERVICE FROM JANUARY 1 NEXT YEAR BECAUSE OF THE CONTINUED DECLINE IN DEMAND.
MAKING THE ANNOUNCEMENT TODAY (THURSDAY), THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, MR M PAGLIARI, SAID FROM THAT DATE, THE POST OFFICE WOULD NOT ISSUE INTERNATIONAL MONEY ORDERS, POST ORDERS OR LOCAL MONEY ORDERS.
’’CASH-ON-DELI VERY PARCELS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AND POSTCHEQUES ISSUED BY FOREIGN POST OFFICES WILL NOT BE ENCASHED,” HE SAID.
HOWEVER, LOCAL MONEY ORDERS, POSTAL AND MONEY ORDERS ISSUED OVERSEAS ON OR BEFORE THE END OF DECEMBER THIS YEAR FOR PAYMENT IN HONG KONG WILL STILL BE ENCASHED PROVIDED THAT THEY ARE PRESENTED AT POST OFFICES BEFORE THE DATE OF VALIDITY EXPIRES.
MR PAGLIARI ADVISED CUSTOMERS WISHING TO REMIT MONEY LOCALLY OR TO OVERSEAS COUNTRIES AFTER THE REMITTANCE SERVICE CEASES TO USE ALTERNATIVE BANKING FACILITIES COMMONLY AVAILABLE IN THE TERRITORY.
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/24........
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
24 TEMPORARY VENUE EOR CAR MARKS AUCTION * * * * *
PEOPLE WISHING TO GET THEIR FAVOURITE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS SHOULD TAKE NOTE OF THE NEW VENUE FOR THE AUCTIONS FROM NOW UNTIL OCTOBER THIS YEAR.
THE NEW VENUE IS THE LECTURE HALL, SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, FIFTH FLOOR, URBAN COUNCIL SHEUNG WAN COMPLEX, 345 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, HONG KONG. ITS OFFICE CAN BE CONTACTED ON TEL 853 2678.
THE TEMPORARY CHANGE IS NECESSARY BECAUSE THE CITY HALL RECITAL HALL IS DUE FOR RENOVATION FROM JULY TO OCTOBER.
A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THE SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE WAS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AND WAS WELL-SERVED BY THE MTR, TRAMS, CHINA MOTOR BUS ROUTES 3A, 4, 5, 7, 10, 37, 71 AND 79M, AND TUNNEL BUS ROUTES 101, 104 AND 105.
"MEMBERS OF PUBLIC WILL MISS A CHANCE TO GET THEIR FAVOURITE MARKS IF THEY GO TO THE WRONG VENUE," HE SAID.
THE AUCTION THIS SATURDAY (JULY 17) WILL START AT 9.30 AM. A TOTAL OF 50 MARKS WILL BE PUT UP FOR AUCTION:
FF2280 FF168 FF91 1 FF687 AA8602
FF339 FF2333 FF827 FBI 68 FF7168
♦FJ1818 ♦ FM4 ♦FM900 ♦ FN88 ♦FL717
ATI 18 FF1681 FF8113 FF730 FF5222
FF812 AA230 FF228 AA1480 CR3240
DT269 FF180 AC3822 FF277 FF7770
FF866 FF8088 FF328 FF3620 FF1314
♦CC2000 ♦ FK5 ♦ 613 ♦ FM99 ♦AA4444
FF128 AT228 FF782 CW 1280 FF9295
FF2281 FF322 AH702 FF9338 FF4443
* SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK (NOT TRANSFERABLE)
SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS MUST PAY BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.
THE 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 GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND.
THE COMING AUCTION WILL THE 198TII ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973.
/25 ......
Hl RSDAY JULY 15, 1993
STAMP SHEETLET f MARE Hk M EXHIBITION
******
THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, MR M PAGL1ARI, ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT A $10 DEFINITIVE STAMP SHEETLET (NO.6) WILL BE PUT ON SALE AT ALL POST OFFICES EXCEPT THE AIRPORT POST OFFICE ON AUGUST 12.
THE ISSUE IS TO PUBLICISE THE FIRST-EVER REGIONAL STAMP EXHIBITION - "HONG KONG ’94" SCHEDULED FROM FEBRUARY 18 TO 21 NEXT YEAR AT THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE.
ON THE FIRST DAY OF ISSUE. EACH CUSTOMER IS ENTITLED TO ONLY 10 SHEETLETS.
OFFICIAL SOUVENIR COVERS TO MATCH THE DEFINITIVE SHEETLET, AT $1 EACH, WILL BE PUT ON SALE AT ALL POST OFFICES EXCEPT THE AIRPORT POST OFFICE FROM AUGUST 5.
A SPECIAL DATESTAMP WILL ALSO BE INTRODUCED.
A HAND-BACK SERVICE WILL BE PROVIDED ON AUGUST 12 TO OFFICIAL AND PRIVATELY-MADE COVERS COMPLEMENTING THE STAMP SHEETLET.
------0--------
AID TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIM’S FAMILY *****
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) APPROVED $48,430 FROM THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS ASSISTANCE (TAVA) FUND TO THE DEP! DANTS OF A FOREMAN WHO DIED IN A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT IN TAI PO LAST iONTH.
THE VICTIM, AGED 41, WAS SURVIVED BY HIS WIFE AND TWO SONS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE TAVA SCHEME PROVIDED QUICK FINANCIAL HELP TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS OR THEIR DEPENDANTS REGARDLESS OF THE FAMILY’S MEANS OR THE FAULT ELEMENT IN THE ACCIDENT.
BENEFICIARIES WILL RETAIN THE RIGHT TO MAKE CLAIMS FOR LEGAL DAMAGES OR COMPENSATION FROM OTHER SOURCES IN THE USUAL WAY.
HOWEVER, THOSE WHO RECEIVE OTHER DAMAGES OR COMPENSATION RELATING TO THE SAME ACCIDENT ARE REQUIRED TO REPAY THE AMOUNT OF ASSISTANCE ALREADY RECEIVED FROM THE SCHEME.
’’BUT IN ANY CASE, THE AMOUNT REPAID WILL NOT EXCEED THE AMOUNT <)F DAMAGES OR COMPENSATION AWARDED," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SCHEME MAY BE MADE OF THE DEPARTMENT’S TAVA SECTION IN ROOM 942, NINTH FLOOR, WU CHUNG HOUSE, 213 QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI OR ON TEL 892 5526.
------0-------
/26........
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
26
EXHIBITION TO PROMOTE JOBS FOR DISABLED
*****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL MOUNT A THREE-DAY EXHIBITION FROM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) IN CITYPLAZA TO PROMOTE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE WORKING ABILITIES OF THE DISABLED.
"THE EXHIBITION IS PART OF THE DEPARTMENT’S CONTINUOUS EFFORTS TO PROMOTE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DISABLED," SENIOR LABOUR OFFICER (SELECTIVE PLACEMENT), MRS JENNIE CHOR, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF THIS YEAR, THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT DIVISION RECORDED 1,266 REGISTRATIONS FOR JOBS, RECEIVED 2,265 VACANCIES, MADE 1,569 REFERRALS AND ACHIEVED 636 PLACEMENTS.
"THIS SHOWS THAT THE DIVISION HAS KEPT UP A GOOD PERFORMANCE IN TRYING TO SECURE JOBS FOR DISABLED PEOPLE.
"RESPONSE TO THE EXHIBITION HELD IN KWAI FONG IN MAY HAS BEEN VERY ENCOURAGING AS IT ATTRACTED SOME 6,800 VISITORS," MRS CHOR SAID.
"THROUGH ENHANCED PUBLICITY, WE HOPE THE GENERAL PUBLIC WILL KNOW MORE ABOUT THE ABILITIES OF DISABLED WORKERS AND THAT EMPLOYERS WILL BE ENCOURAGED TO HIRE MORE DISABLED WORKERS," SHE SAID.
THE COMING EXHIBITION WILL INTRODUCE THE DEPARTMENT’S FREE PLACEMENT SERVICE TO THE DISABLED AND FREE RECRUITMENT SERVICE TO EMPLOYERS, ITS PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND FUTURE PLANS.
ALSO ON DISPLAY WILL BE PHOTOGRAPHS SHOWING DISABLED EMPLOYEES ON DIFFERENT KIND OF JOBS.
IN ADDITION, FOUR DIFFERENT VIDEO SHOWS ON THE WORK OF THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT DIVISION WILL BE PRESENTED DAILY DURING THE EXHIBITION.
LABOUR DEPARTMENT OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ANSWER ENQUIRIES FROM VISITORS AND TO DISTRIBUTE PAMPHLETS.
THEY WILL ALSO RECORD VACANCY INFORMATION FROM PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYERS AND PERSONAL PARTICULARS OF DISABLED JOB-SEEKERS FOR FURTHER CONTACTS, SHE SAID.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPEN DAILY FROM 11 AM TO 6 PM UNTIL SUNDAY (JULY 18) AT WEST BRIDGE, LEVEL 2, CITYPLAZA TWO AT TAIKOO SHING.
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/27........
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
27
BEACH WATER GRADES * * * * * *
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) ANNOUNCED GRADES ON THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF ALL BATHING BEACHES IN HONG KONG.
THE GRADING SYSTEM SERVES TO INFORM SWIMMERS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC ABOUT THE STATE OF BACTERIOLOGICAL POLLUTION AT VARIOUS BEACHES.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE GRADING WOULD BE ANNOUNCED BIWEEKLY DURING THE BATHING SEASON TO COINCIDE WITH THE FREQUENCY AT WHICH BEACH WATER WAS USUALLY SAMPLED.
THE GRADING IS BASED ON THE MOST RECENT E.COLI DATA OBTAINED BY THE DEPARTMENT IN ITS ROUTINE MONITORING PROGRAMME.
AS WITH LAST YEAR, THE GRADING ALSO INCLUDES AN ESTIMATE OF THE RISK OF SUFFERING SOME MINOR SKIN OR GASTROINTESTINAL COMPLAINTS AS A RESULT OF SWIMMING AT A BEACH THAT HAS SOME DEGREE OF POLLUTION.
THE ESTIMATE IS BASED ON A LARGE BODY OF STATISTICAL INFORMATION GATHERED IN HONG KONG IN RECENT BATHING SEASONS.
THE GRADING OF SOME BEACHES MAY VARY DURING SUMMER. THIS REPRESENTS A NATURAL FLUCTUATION IN THE BACTERIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF BATHING WATER IN MOST CASES, AS RAIN AND TIDES BRING MORE OR LESS POLLUTION TO THE BEACHES.
HOWEVER, THE GRADES GIVE A GOOD GENERAL PICTURE OF THE WATER QUALITY AT BATHING BEACHES AT THE TIME OF REPORTING AND FORM THE BEST AVAILABLE FORECAST FOR THE IMMEDIATE FUTURE.
"BEACHES WITH HIGHLY DEVELOPED HINTERLANDS ARE LIKELY TO BE MORE POLLUTED THAN THE GRADES SUGGEST DURING AND AFTER HEAVY RAIN.
"BATHERS SHOULD AVOID SUCH BEACHES FOR TWO OR THREE DAYS AFTER A STORM, LONGER JF THE WEATHER REMAINS OVERCAST OR LESS IF THERE IS STRONG SUNSHINE." THE SPOKESMAN SAJI).
THE GRADINGS SYSTEM IS:
♦ GRADE "1" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS GOOD. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 24 PER 100 MILLILITERS AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED RISK OF MINOR ILLNESS TO SWIMMERS IS UNDETECTABLE.
* GRADE "2" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS FAIR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 180 PER 100 MILLILITERS AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS NO MORE THAN 10 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
* GRADE "3" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS POOR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 610 PER 100 MILLILITERS AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS NO MORE THAN 15 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
/* GRADE "4"
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
28
* GRADE "4" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS VERY POOR. Till' E. COLI COUNT IS MORE THAN 610 PER 100 MILLILITERS AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS MORE THAN 15 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
THE DECISION ON WHETHER OR NOT TO CLOSE A BEACH TO SWIMMERS IS BASED ON A JUDGMENT OF WHAT DEGREE OF POLLUTION IS ACCEPTABLE.
NORMALLY, THE CLOSURE OF A BEACH WOULD ONLY BE CONSIDERED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL OR REGIONAL COUNCIL IF A GRADE "4" OCCURRED REPEATEDLY, SO THAT THE AVERAGE HEALTH RISK OVER THE BATHING SEASON EXCEEDED 15 CASES PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
AT PRESENT, TWO BATHING BEACHES, CASTLE PEAK AND OLD CAFETERIA, HAVE BEEN DECLARED UNSUITABLE FOR SWIMMING, BASED ON THE WATER QUALITY DURING PAST SEASONS.
THEY ARE POLLUTED BY FAECAL WASTE. THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED NOT TO SWIM AT THE TWO BEACHES.
IN ADDITION, ROCKY BAY BEACH HAS BEEN CLOSED FOR SWIMMING BY THE URBAN COUNCIL. THE THREE BEACHES ARE IDENTIFIED BY AN "X” IN THE FOLLOWING LIST.
THE GRADES ON THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF VARIOUS BEACHES IN HONG KONG TODAY ARE:
BEACH PREVIOUS GRADING PRESENT GRADING
(AS AT 1.7.93) (AS AT 15.7.93)
HONG KONG SOUTH
BIG WAVE BAY 3 3
CHUNG HOM KOK 3 3
DEEP WATER BAY 2 3
HAIRPIN 3 3
MIDDLE BAY 2 2
REPULSE BAY 2 2
SHEK O 3 3
SOUTH BAY 1 2
ST. STEPHEN’S 3 2
TURTLE COVE 2 3
STANLEY MAIN 3 3
ROCKY BAY X X
TO TEI WAN* 2 2
TUEN MUN DISTRICT
OLD CAFETERIA NEW CAFETERIA CASTLE PEAK KADOORIE BUTTERFLY
X 3
X 3
2
X 3 X
4 3
/SAI KUNG ........
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
- 29 -
SAI KUNG DISTRICT
CAMPERS 2
CLEAR WATER BAY 1ST BEACH 2
CLEAR WATER BAY 2ND BEACH 2
HAP MUN BAY 1
KIU TSUI 2
PAK SHA CHAU 2
SILVERSTRAND 2
TRIO (HEBE HAVEN) 2
1 2
2 1
1 2
3 2
ISLANDS DISTRICT
CHEUNG SHA UPPER CHEUNG SHA LOWER DISCOVERY BAY* HUNG SHING YEH KWUN YAM WAN TONG FUK LO SO SHING PUI O SILVERMINE BAY TUNG WAN, CHEUNG CHAU TUNG O»
1
3
2
1
2
1
1
2
3
2
2
1
3 2
1
2
1 1
1
3 2
2
TSUEN WAN DISTRICT
ANGLERS’ APPROACH CASAM GEMINI
HOI MEI WAN
LIDO
TING KAU
TUNG WAN, MA WAN
4
3
4
3
4
3
4
3
4
3
4
3
3
3
4
3
NOTE : "X" THE BEACH HAS BEEN CLOSED FOR SWIMMING » NON-GAZETTED BEACH
THE FOLLOWING BEACHES HAVE CHANGED GRADING ON THIS OCCASION:
PUI O, CAMPERS AND KIU TSUI FROM ”2” TO "1”; ST STEPHEN’S FROM ”3” TO ”2”; HOI MEI WAN FROM ”4” TO ”3”; SOUTH BAY FROM ”1” TO "2”; DEEP WATER BAY, TURTLE COVE, SILVERSTRAND AND BUTTERFLY FROM ”2” TO ”3”; KADOORIE FROM "3” TO ”4”.
/THE CHANGES .......
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 1993
30
THE CHANGES ARE WITHIN THE NORMAL RANGE OE FLUCTUATION OF THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF THE BEACHES. THE GENERAL DETERIORATION AT DEEP WATER BAY, TURTLE COVE, SILVERSTRAND, BUTIERFLY AND KADOORIE BEACHES IS PROBABLY DUE TO THE RECENT HEAVY RAINFALL WHICH WOULD HAVE CAUSED THE POLLUTANTS IN THE BEACH HINTERLAND TO BE FLUSHED INTO THE SEA WATER.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
FOR FURTHER ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT MR K F TANG ACTING PRINCIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICER, ON TEL 835 1234.
------0--------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ♦ ♦ ♦ * *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,927
REVERSAL OF LAF +873
BALANCE AFTER REVERSL OF LAF 2,800
NET TNJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -1,169
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,631
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.6 *-0.2* 15.7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.29 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.62 3.82
1 MONTH 2.62 PCT 16 MONTHS 24 1 1 4.625 100.91 3.95
3 MONTHS 3.10 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.02 4.12
6 MONTHS 3.38 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 99.05 4.34
12 MONTHS 3.70 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 16,642 MN
CLOSED 15 JULY 1993
Received by PRO
°° 2 0 JUL -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
EARLY RETURN OF IIS MUST BE ASSURED: GOVERNOR ................... ]
GOVERNOR SEES IMPROVEMENTS IN CLINICS ........................... 2
TELECOMS AUTHORITY APPROVES IDD RATE CUTS AND DOMESTIC TARIFFS ........................................................ 3
PART II REPORT OF COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO WITNESS PROTECTION ..................................................... 7
EARLY RETURN OF VIIS FROM CHINA URGED ........................... 8
TWO CAMPS TO HOLD EX CHINESE VIET ITS ........................... 8
WORLD TRADE CENTRE GROUP - FREEZING OF SHARES .................. 9
WORKS TO EASE TUEN MUN ROAD JAM ................................ 10
MODERATE INCREASE IN COURT INSOLVENCIES ........................ 11
FURTHER IMPROVEMENT TO KOWLOON SEWER SYSTEM IN THE PIPELINE ' 1.2
ADVANCE RECONSTRUCTION WORK FOR LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD .......... 13
BANKING LICENCE GRANTED TO SHIGA RANK .......................... 14
UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT FIGURES FOR MARCH - MAY ... 14
NEW LAW PROVIDES EMPLOYEES BETTER PROTECTIONS .................. 15
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARD OF EDUCATION ............................. 16
WATER WORK PROJECT ON LANTAU ................................... 16
VILLAGE ACCESS ROADS TN TUEN MUN PROPOSED ...................... 17
36 MADE JUSTICES OF PEACE ...................................... 18
OPERATION TO STAMP OUT ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS ...................... 19
FOOTBRIDGE LINK WITH WAN CHAT RECLAMATION ...................... 20
AMBULANCEMEN COMMENDED FOR LIFE SAVING ......................... 20
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS . 21
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
1
/EARLY RETURN OF IIS MUST BE ASSURED: GOVERNOR
*****
IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO GIVE HONG KONG PEOPLE THE ASSURANCE THAT ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WILL BE RETURNED AS RAPIDLY AS POSSIBLE, THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER VISITING HEALTH CLINICS IN YUEN LONG, THE GOVERNOR SAID: "IT WAS ALWAYS THE POSITION OF CHINESE OFFICIALS IN RELATION TO VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS FROM VIETNAM THAT THEY SHOULD BE RETURNED AS RAPIDLY AS POSSIBLE, THAT VIETNAM SHOULD ACCEPT THEM AS RAPIDLY AS POSSIBLE.
"IF THAT APPLIES TO VIETNAM, IT CERTAINLY APPLIES AS WELL TO CHINA, WHERE THESE PEOPLE HAVE BEEN RESIDENTS FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS."
HE SAID HONG KONG PEOPLE WOULD VERY MUCH WELCOME AN ASSURANCE FROM CHINESE OFFICIALS ALONG THOSE LINES.
"I THINK THAT THERE’S VERY LITTLE DOUBT THAT THEY ARE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS AND I THINK THEY SHOULD BE TREATED LIKE OTHER ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WHO GET INTO HONG KONG AND WHO ARE FOUND AND SENT BACK, AND SENT BACK VERY RAPIDLY," THE GOVERNOR SAID.
THIS REALLY IS A DIFFICULT SOCIAL PROBLEM. OVER THE YEARS, HONG KONG HAS SHOWN EXTRAORDINARY FORBEARING, EXTRAORDINARY PATIENCE IN DEALING WITH THE PROBLEM OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS TO OUR COMMUNITY.
"WE’VE DONE THAT AGAIN AND AGAIN AND AGAIN. WE’VE BEEN AS GENEROUS AS ANY COMMUNITY IN THE WORLD, MORE GENEROUS THAN MOST COMMUNITIES."
"I’M SURE THAT OFFICIALS IN THE PRC WILL TAKE THAT INTO ACCOUNT, WILL TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE IMPORTANCE OF THE HEARTS AND MINDS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WHEN THEY MAKE STATEMENTS AND WHEN THEY COME TO DECISIONS IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS AND WEEKS,” HE ADDED.
"FOR PEOPLE IN HONG KONG THIS IS A VERY, VERY IMPORTANT ISSUE AND IT DESERVES PRIORITY TREATMENT FROM OFFICIALS IN CHINA."
COMMENTING ON THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON "TOWARDS BETTER HEALTH", MR PATTEN SAID: "WE WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT HONG KONG HAS A HEALTH SERVICE WHICH CAN CARRY US ALL INTO THE 21ST CENTURY. AND THAT WAS THE PURPOSE OF THE HEALTH DOCUMENT THAT WE PRODUCED THIS WEEK.”
HE HOPED THE DOCUMENT WOULD BEGIN A PROCESS OF INTELLIGENT AND LIVELY DEBATE ABOUT HOW HONG KONG COULD IMPROVE HEALTH SERVICES FOR EVERYONE.
"WHAT WE WANT IS A HEALTH SERVICE WHICH IS AFFORDABLE FOR ALL AND ACCESSIBLE TO ALL. THAT’S OUR OBJECTIVE. THAT’S WHAT WE INTEND TO ACHIEVE," HE SAID.
/"OBVIOUSLY OVER .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
2
"OBVIOUSLY OVER THE NEXT YEARS THE OVERALL COSTS OF HEALTH CARE IN THE COMMUNITY ARE GOING TO INCREASE. THAT’S SOMETHING EVERYBODY UNDERSTANDS. WHAT WE’VE GOT TO FIND ARE FAIR WAYS OF MEETING THOSE COSTS.
"BUT IN DOING THAT WE HAVE TO ENSURE THAT THOSE WHO ARE IN NEED, THAT THOSE WHO CAN’T AFFORD TO PAY MORE FOR SERVICES CAN GET THE BEST POSSIBLE TREATMENT WITHOUT BEING INHIBITED BY QUESTIONS OF COSTS."
------0--------
GOVERNOR SEES IMPROVEMENTS IN CLINICS
» « * * *
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, TODAY (FRIDAY) VISITED TWO GENERAL OUT-PATIENT CLINICS IN YUEN LONG TO SEE FOR HIMSELF THE IMPROVEMENTS AND PROGRESS ACHIEVED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH UNDER THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGE PROGRAMME.
MR PATTEN FIRST VISITED THE YUEN LONG JOCKEY CLUB HEALTH CENTRE WHERE HE WAS MET ON ARRIVAL BY THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR MARGARET CHAN, ACTING DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR PAUL SAW, AND OTHER CLINIC STAFF.
HE WAS TOLD THAT THE 27-YEAR-OLD CLINIC WAS SCHEDULED TO UNDERGO IMPROVEMENTS UNDER PHASE III OF THE DEPARTMENT’S PERFORMANCE PLEDGE PROGRAMME IN LINE WITH OTHER CLINICS OF THE DEPARTMENT.
THE GOVERNOR TOURED THE VARIOUS UNITS OF THE CLINIC WHERE PRIMARY MEDICAL CARE SERVICES ARE DELIVERED TO THE PUBLIC.
HE LEARNT THAT THE CLINIC HAD ALREADY UPGRADED ITS SERVICE BY INTRODUCING AN APPOINTMENT SYSTEM FOR CHRONIC PATIENTS SEEKING FOLLOW-UP TREATMENT, AND LABELLING OF DISPENSED MEDICINE MANUALLY.
THE GOVERNOR THEN WENT TO THE GENERAL OUT-PATIENT CLINIC LOCATED AT MADAM YUNG FUNG SHEE HEALTH CENTRE WHERE HE SAW VARIOUS IMPROVEMENT FACILITIES AND MEASURES INTRODUCED UNDER PHASE I OF THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGE EXERCISE.
IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDE: AIR-CONDITIONED WAITING AREA WITH PIPED MUSIC AND MORE COMFORTABLE SEATS; PLAY AREA FOR CHILDREN; DIGITAL DISPLAY SYSTEM AT CONSULTATION ROOMS; PROVISION OF DRINKING FOUNTAIN AND WEIGHING SCALE; ATTRACTIVE DISPLAY OF HEALTH EDUCATION MATERIALS AND A PATIENT ASSISTANCE COUNTER OFFERING PROMPT INFORMATION AND HELP TO PATIENTS.
CLINIC PROCEDURES HAVE ALSO BEEN IMPROVED TO PLACE A GREATER EMPHASIS ON CONVENIENCE, COMFORT AND CONTINUITY OF CARE.
THESE EMBRACE AN ADVANCE APPOINTMENT SYSTEM FOR CHRONIC PATIENTS, A PRIORITY SYSTEM FOR ELDERLY, AN IMPROVED APPOINTMENT SYSTEM FOR OTHER PATIENTS WHICH GUARANTEES WAITING TIME FOR CONSULTATION OF NO MORE THAN 60 MINUTES.
/PATIENTS MAY .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
- 3 -
PATIENTS MAY ALSO RECEIVE INDIVIDUAL HEALTH COUNSELLING BY NURSES AND ATTEND EDUCATION TALKS ON COMMON DISEASES HELD REGULARLY.
AT THE DISPENSARY, THE GOVERNOR WAS BRIEFED BY THE CHIEF DISPENSER, MR SAN YEUNG, ON HIS AWARD-WINNING PROJECT -- THE COMPUTERISED DRUG DISPENSING SYSTEM — WHICH HAS TREMENDOUSLY UPGRADED THE QUALITY OF DRUG DISPENSING.
THE GOVERNOR SAW THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN HAND-WRITTEN LABELS AND COMPUTER-GENERATED LABELS WITH THE LATTER PROVIDING MORE INFORMATION, INCLUDING CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS ON SIDE-EFFECTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY INSTRUCTIONS, IN A MORE LEGIBLE MANNER.
HE LEARNT THAT COMPUTERISED LABELS NOT ONLY ENABLED PATIENTS TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THEIR MEDICATION BUT ALSO ENCOURAGED THEM TO COMPLY WITH THE COURSE OF DRUG TREATMENT PRESCRIBED.
MR YEUNG’S EFFORT IN COMPUTERISING DRUG DISPENSING THROUGH DESIGN OF SOFTWARES AND TRAINING OF STAFF WON HIM AN AWARD UNDER THE CIVIL SERVICE STAFF SUGGESTIONS SCHEME.
THE DEPARTMENT LAUNCHED THE FIRST PHASE OF THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGE PROGRAMME IN DECEMBER LAST YEAR IN 15 OF ITS 56 GENERAL OUT-PATIENT CLINICS.
BEST PRACTICE TECHNIQUES WERE DEVELOPED IN THESE CLINICS WHICH WOULD BE APPLIED TO OTHER CLINICS AT LATER PHASES.
THE SECOND PHASE IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN NEXT MONTH IN 13 MORE CLINICS.
TELECOMS AUTHORITY APPROVES TDD RATE CUTS AND DOMESTIC TARIFFS » * * * t * *
THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS, MR ALEXANDER ARENA, ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT HE HAD APPROVED THE 8 PER CENT REDUCTION IN IDD CHARGES.
’’THIS IS GREAT NEWS FOR CONSUMERS," SAID MR ARENA, "AND REPRESENTS SAVINGS TO THE CONSUMER OF MORE THAN $600 MILLION OVER A FULL YEAR."
HE NOTED THAT HE HAD APPROVED THE CUTS AFTER THE AUTHORITY’S ANALYSTS ENSURED THEY WERE TN LINE WITH THE IDD REDUCTION PLAN AGREED BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND HONGKONG TELECOM INTERNATIONAL.
’’CONSUMERS BENEFIT ON EVERY TRAFFIC STREAM BECAUSE CHARGES WILL NOT INCREASE ON ANY STREAM. TN EFFECT THE CHARGES ON BACH STREAM WILL DROP IN REAL TERMS BY AT LEAST THE RATE OF INFLATION OF ABOUT 9.5 PER CENT," MR ARENA OBSERVED.
/"CALLS TO .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
"CALLS TO SOME COUNTRIES WILL BE CUT BY CONSIDERABLE AMOUNTS.
"THIS HAS BEEN POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF THE LARGER DEGREE OF PROFITABILITY ON SOME STREAMS, PARTICULARLY TO THOSE MAJOR TRADING PARTNERS THAT HAVE LIBERALISED THEIR TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRIES," HE SAID.
EXAMPLES OF SUCH COUNTRIES INCLUDE THE USA, CANADA AND AUSTRALIA.
"THESE CUTS ARE IMPORTANT TO KEEP HONG KONG RATES COMPETITIVE AND AMONG THE LOWEST IN THE WORLD. BUT THIS ROUND OF CUTS IS ONLY THE FIRST INSTALMENT AS INTERNATIONAL RATES MUST FALL BY 2 PER CENT NEXT YEAR AND 2 PER CENT IN THE FOLLOWING YEAR."
ALSO GAZETTED TODAY ARE THE AMENDMENTS TO HONG KONG TELEPHONE’S DOMESTIC TARIFFS.
MR ARENA CONFIRMED THAT THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY WAS SATISFIED THAT THE AMENDED TARIFFS WERE IN LINE WITH THE PRICE-CAP ARRANGEMENTS WHICH LIMIT INCREASES IN THE BASKET OF DOMESTIC CHARGES, AS A WHOLE, TO 4 PER CENT BELOW INFLATION.
"AGAIN CONSUMERS ARE BENEFITING FROM CUTS IN DOMESTIC TARIFFS OF 4 PER CENT OVERALL IN REAL TERMS. THE INCREASE IN RESIDENTIAL LTNE RENTAL HAS BEEN HELD TO 3 PER CENT BELOW THE INFLATION RATE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRICE CONTROL RULES."
BOTH THE REVISED DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL TARIFFS COME INTO EFFECT ON AUGUST 1 THIS YEAR.
/IDD STANDARD .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
5
IDO STANDARD RATS REDUCTION
Country Existing Rats (HKS/ain) New •
Rata % Reduced
ALASKA 12.30 9.80 20.33%
ALBANIA 13.80 15.20 3.80%
ANTARCTICA 13.80 14.00 11.39%
ANTIGUA 15.80 14.00 11.39%
ARUBA 15.30 14.00 11.39%
ascsnsion 15.30 14.00 11.39%
AUSTRALIA 12.30 8.10 34.13%
AUSTRIA 13.80 12.50 20.89%
BAHAMAS 15.80 15.20 3.80%
BAHRAIN 14.00 13.00 7.14%
BANGLADESH 13.30 12.00 2.44%
BARBADOS 15.30 14.00 11.39%
BELGIUM 15.80 12.50 20.89%
BELIZE ‘ 15.80 15.20 3.80%
BERMUDA 15.80 14.00 11.39%-
BOTSWANA 15.80 14.00 11.39%
CANADA 11.70 8.90 23.93%
CAIMAN is 15.80 14.00 11.39%
COSTA RICA 15.80 15.20 3.80%
CYPRUS 15.80 12.50 20.89%
DENMARK 15.80 14.00 11.39%
DOMINICA 15.80 14.00 11.39%
EGYPT 24.00 .21.00 12.50%
FALKLAND IS 15.30 14.00 11.39*
FIJI IS 13.30 12.00 2.44%
FINLAND 15.30 14.00 11.39%
FRANCE 15.80 12.50 20.89%
GAMBIA 15.80 14.00 11.39%
GERMANY 15.80 12.50 20.39%
OHANA 13.80 14.00 11.39%
GIBRALTAR 15.80 14.00 11.39%
GRENADA ' ’ . 15.80 14.00 11.39%
GUAM 12.30 12.00 2.44*
GUYANA 15.80 14.00 • 11.39%
HAWAII 12.30 9.30 20.33%
ICELAND 15.30 14.00 11.39%
INDIA 12.30 12.00 2.44%
IRISH REP 15.80 12.50 20.89%
ITALY 15.80 12.30 20.39%
JAMAICA 15.80 14.00 ' 11.39%
KENYA 15.80 14.00 11.39%
LESOTHO 15.30 14.00 11.39*
MALAWI • 15.30 14.00 11.39%
MALDIVE IS 12.30 12.00 2.44%
MARIANA IS 12.30 12.00 2.44%
MAURITIUS 13.30 14.00 11.39%
MICRONESIA 12.30 12.00 2.44%
MONTSERRAT 15.80 14.00 11.39%
NETH W INDIES 15.80 14.00 11.39%
/TDD STANDARD
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
6
IDD STANDAKD RATE REDUCTION
Country Existing Rate (HK$/ain) New Rate (HK$/uin) % Reduced
NETHERLANDS 13.80 12.50 20.89%
NEW ZEALAND 12.30 8.10 34.15%
NIGERIA 15.80 14.00 11.39%
NORWAY 15.80 14.00 11.39%
P NEW GUINEA 12.30 12.00 2.44%
PAKISTAN 12.30 12.00 2.44%
PERU 15.30 15.20 3.80%
PORTUGAL 15.80 12.50 20.89%
PUERTO RICO 15.30 14.00 11.39%
SEYCHELLES 15.80 14.00 11.39%
SIERRA LEONB 13.80 14.00 11.39%
SINGAPORE 7.00 6.90 1.43%
SOUTH AFRICA 15.30 14.00 11.39%
SRI LANKA 12.30 10.00 18.70%
ST HELENA ' 15.80 14.00 11.39%
ST KITTS 15.80 14.00 11.39%
ST LUCIA 15.80 14.00 11.39%
ST VINCENT/GREN ** • 15.80 • 14.00 11.39%
SUDAN 15.80 15.20 3.80%
SWAZILAND 15.80 14.00 11.39%
SWEDEN 15.30 14.00 11.39%
SWITZERLAND 15.80 ‘ 12.5Q 20.89%
TANZANIA 15.30 14.00 11.39%
TONGA 12.30 10.00 18.70%
TRINIDAD/TOBAGO 15.80 14.00 11.39%
TURKS/CAICOS 15.80 14.00 11.39%
UGANDA 15.80 14.00 11.39%
UNITED KINGDOM 10.50 9,80 6.67%
UNITED STATES 12.30 9.80 20.33%
VANUATU 12.30 12.00 2.44%
VIRGIN IS-BRI 15.80 14.00 11.39%
VIRGIN XS-USA 15.80 14.00 11.39%
ZAMBIA 15.80 . 14.00 11.39%
- - 0 - -
/7
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
7
PART II REPORT OF COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO WITNESS PROTECTION * ♦ ♦ * *
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) PUBLISHED PART II OF THE REPORT OF MR JUSTICE KEMPSTER'S INQUIRY INTO WITNESS PROTECTION.
ON JANUARY 12, 1993, THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL APPOINTED MR JUSTICE KEMPSTER TO INQUIRE INTO THE CIRCUMSTANCES LEADING TO THE DECISION TO OFFER NO EVIDENCE AGAINST THE DEFENDANT IN A MURDER CASE AND TO EXAMINE THE EXISTING WITNESS PROTECTION ARRANGEMENTS IN GENERAL.
PART I OF THE REPORT COVERING THE SPECIFIC INCIDENT WAS PUBLISHED ON APRIL 8, 1993.
IN PART II OF THE REPORT, THE COMMISSION OF INQUIRY MAKES 19 RECOMMENDATIONS TO IMPROVE THE EXISTING WITNESS PROTECTION ARRANGEMENTS.
THE PRINCIPAL RECOMMENDATIONS RELATE TO THE ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION OF A CENTRALISED WITNESS PROTECTION AUTHORITY TO ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE PROTECTION OF WITNESSES IN THOSE CASES WHERE IT IS IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST THAT SPECIAL PROTECTION, SUCH AS THE PROVISION OF A ’’SAFE HOUSE” OR RELOCATION SHOULD BE PROVIDED.
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS CALL FOR CHANGES TO THE PRESENT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ALL WITNESSES, INCLUDING IMPROVING THEIR ACCOMMODATION IN CRIMINAL COURTS AND PAYING THEM OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES.
THE GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID IT WAS VERY ENCOURAGING TO LEARN THAT THE COMMISSION HAD FOUND THE REPORT OF THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE ON WITNESS PROTECTION USEFUL AND THAT THE COMMISSION HAD ADOPTED THE MAJORITY OF ITS RECOMMENDATIONS.
’’THE ADMINISTRATION WILL NOW STUDY IN DETAIL THE RECOMMENDATIONS TN THE REPORT OF THE COMMISSION OF INQUIRY,” HE SAID.
”THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A CENTRALISED WITNESS PROTECTION AUTHORITY WOULD MARK A DEPARTURE FROM EXISTING ARRANGEMENTS AND WILL REQUIRE CAREFUL STUDY.”
”WE ARE GATEFUL TO MR JUSTICE KEMPSTER FOR ALL THE HARD WORK HE HAS PUT INTO THIS REPORT,” THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
COPIES OF THE REPORT (PART II) IN ENGLISH WILL BE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AT DISTRICT OFFICES PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRES FROM NEXT MONDAY (JULY 19).
THE CHINESE VERSION OF THE REPORT WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE AS SOON AS THE TRANSLATION WORK IS COMPLETED.
- - 0-----------
/8 ........
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
- 8
EARLY RETURN OF V I IS FROM CHINA URGED
THE POLITICAL ADVISER, MR WILLIAM EHRMAN, TODAY (FRIDAY) ASKED CHINA TO MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE EARLY RETURN OF THE MORE THAN 500 EX-CHINA VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS (ECVIIS) WHO HAVE ARRIVED IN HONG KONG DURING THE PAST MONTH.
MR EHRMAN ASKED OFFICIALS OF THE NEW CHINA NEWS AGENCY TO CALL ON HIM TO HEAR OF THE GROWING CONCERN IN HONG KONG AT THE HIGH RATE OF ECVII ARRIVALS AND OF THE NEED FOR URGENT ACTION TO RETURN THEM TO CHINA WHERE THEY HAVE BEEN SETTLED FOR MANY YEARS.
------------------0------- TWO CAMPS TO HOLD EX-CHINESE VIET IIS
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT BOTH THE KAI TAK VIETNAMESE MIGRANT TRANSIT CENTRE AND CHI MA WAN DETENTION CENTRE (LOWER CAMP) HAD BEEN DESIGNATED AS PLACES OF DETENTION FOR THE EX-CHINESE VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS (ECVIIS) UNDER SECTION 35(1) OF THE IMMIGRATION ORDINANCE.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE RECENT UPSURGE IN THE NUMBER OF ECVIIS ARRIVING IN HONG KONG NECESSITATED THE PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION.
’’UNDER THE PRESENT LAW, ECVIIS ARE REGARDED AS ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS AND THERE IS THEREFORE A NEED TO PROVIDE SEPARATE ACCOMMODATION FOR THEM.
"TO RELIEVE CONGESTION AND OVERCROWDING AT THE GREEN ISLAND RECEPTION CENTRE, THE GROUND FLOOR OF KAI TAK VIETNAMESE MIGRANT TRANSIT CENTRE WHICH HAS BEEN VACANT FOR SOME TIME HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED AS A SHORT-TERM MEASURE TO PROVIDE CONTINGENT ACCOMMODATION FOR THE ECVIIS.
"IN PARALLEL, WE HAVE ALSO ADVANCED THE EMPTYING OF THE CHI MA WAN DETENTION CENTRE (LOWER CAMP) IN ORDER TO MAKE ROOM FOR THE ADDITIONAL ECVIIS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE FIRST BATCH OF AROUND 200 ECVIIS ARE TO BE TRANSFERRED TO THE KAI TAK CENTRE TODAY. THE REMAINDER WILL BE TRANSFERRED TO THE CHI MA WAN DETENTION CENTRE (LOWER CAMP) WHEN THE VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS CURRENTLY ACCOMMODATED THERE ARE TRANSFERRED TO THE HIGH ISLAND DETENTION CENTRE LATE NEXT WEEK.
- - 0 - -
/9 ........
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
9
WORLD TRADE CENTRE GROUP - FREEZING OF SHARES *****
AN ERROR MADE BY A NOMINEE COMPANY IN QUOTING CERTAIN SHARE CERTIFICATE NUMBERS HAS RENDERED VOID PART OF AN ORDER MADE ON JULY 8, 1993 TO IMPOSE RESTRICTIONS ON SPECIFIC SHARES OF THE WORLD TRADE CENTRE GROUP (WTCG), A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
HAVING ACCEPTED THE RECOMMENDATION BY AN INSPECTOR APPOINTED IN EARLY JUNE TO INVESTIGATE AND REPORT ON THE MEMBERSHIP OF WTCG, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY MADE AN ORDER ON JULY 8, 1993 UNDER THE SECURITIES (DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS) ORDINANCE TO RESTRICT THE TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP OF SOME 179 MILLION WTCG SHARES.
FOLLOWING THE PUBLICATION ON JULY 10, 1993, OF THE SHARE CERTIFICATE NUMBERS WHICH WERE THE SUBJECT OF THE ORDER ONE OF THE NOMINEE COMPANIES INVOLVED IN THE INVESTIGATION DISCOVERED AND INFORMED THE INSPECTOR THAT IT HAD INADVERTENTLY PROVIDED A WRONG LIST OF SHARE CERTIFICATE NUMBERS TO THE INSPECTOR.
THE INSPECTOR’S REPORT WAS COMPILED ON THE BASIS OF INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE NOMINEE COMPANY AND THE RESTRICTION ORDER THEREFORE COVERS THE MISTAKEN SHARE CERTIFICATE NUMBERS.
"THE EFFECT WAS THAT 44.85 MILLION WTCG SHARES NOT INTENDED TO BE THE TARGET OF THE INVESTIGATION WERE INCLUDED IN THE RESTRICTION ORDER DATED JULY 8, 1993.
IN OTHER WORDS, THE IMPOSITION OF RESTRICTIONS ON THESE SHARES HAD NO LEGAL EFFECT," THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED.
IN RESPONSE TO THIS ERROR MADE BY THE NOMINEE COMPANY, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY ISSUED A NOTICE ON JULY 14, 1993 THAT INSOFAR AS THE ORDER MADE ON JULY 8, 1993 AFFECTED THE 44.85 MILLION MISTAKEN SHARES, IT WAS NULL AND VOID AND WAS REVOKED.
"THIS, HOWEVER, DOES NOT AFFECT THE IMPOSITION OF RESTRICTIONS ON THE OTHER WTCG SHARES COVERED BY THAT ORDER," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
"THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY AT THE SAME TIME MADE A NEW ORDER TO SUBJECT THE CORRECT 44.85 MILLION WTCG SHARES TO THE RESTRICTIONS OF PART V OF THE SECURITIES (DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS) ORDINANCE AS IT APPEARS THAT THERE ARE DIFFICULTIES IN FINDING OUT THE RELEVANT FACTS ABOUT THESE SHARES," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
PART V RESTRICTIONS ARE MAINLY TO LIMIT THE TRANSFERABILITY OF SHARES.
THE ORDINANCE ALSO PROVIDES THAT AN ORDER APPLYING PART V RESTRICITONS MAY BE DISAPPLIED BY A SUBSEQUENT ORDER SHOULD THE RELEVANT FACTS ABOUT PARTICULAR SHAREHOLDINGS BE DISCLOSED AND NO UNFAIR ADVANTAGE HAD ACCRUED TO ANY PERSON AS A RESULT OF THE EARLIER FAILURE TO MAKE A DISCLOSURE.
/THE NOTICE .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
10
THE NOTICE TO DECLARE PART OF THE ORIGINAL ORDER DATED JULY 8, 1993 VOID AND THE NEW ORDER DATED JULY 14, 1993 WERE ISSUED TO PARTIES CONCERNED AS WELL AS THE WTCG AND THE STOCK EXCHANGE OF HONG KONG LTD.
THE GOVERNMENT WILL ALSO ISSUE A NOTICE TOMORROW (SATURDAY) IN ONE ENGLISH AND TWO CHINESE NEWSPAPERS DETAILING THE MISTAKEN CERTIFICATE NUMBERS AND THE LIST OF SHARES AFFECTED BY THE NEW ORDER DATED JULY 14, 1993.
------0-------
WORKS TO EASE TUEN MUN ROAD JAM
*****
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING SUITABLE CONTRACTORS TO APPLY FOR PREQUALIFICATION FOR TENDERING FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF IMPROVEMENT WORKS ON TUEN MUN ROAD TO EASE THE SERIOUS TRAFFIC CONGESTION IN THE AREA.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE MAJOR IMPROVEMENT WAS TO WIDEN THE KOWLOON-BOUND CARRIAGEWAY AT FOUR LONG UPHILL SECTIONS OF TUEN MUN ROAD TO ACCOMMODATE AN 8.5-KILOMETRE CLIMBING LANE SO AS TO INCREASE THE ROAD CAPACITY.
THE FOUR UPHILL SECTIONS ARE AT SAM SHING HUI, SO KWUN WAT, TAI LAM AND TING KAU, WHICH ARE AT PRESENT BOTTLENECKS OF TUEN MUN ROAD.
FURTHERMORE, A HARD SHOULDER OF A FULL LANE WIDTH ADJACENT TO THE CLIMBING LANE WILL ALSO BE PROVIDED TO FACILITATE FUTURE MAINTENANCE AND TO DEAL MORE EFFICIENTLY WITH ACCIDENTS OR VEHICLE BREAKDOWNS AT THE SECTIONS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE MAJOR WORKS COMPRISE CUTTING AND FILLING OF SLOPES, WIDENING OF VEHICLE BRIDGES, EXTENSION OF PEDESTRIAN SUBWAYS AND STORM WATER CULVERTS, CONSTRUCTION OF RETAINING WALLS AND IMPROVEMENT TO ROAD DRAINAGE.
RECONSTRUCTION OF THE EXISTING KOWLOON-BOUND CARRIAGEWAY AND CONVERSION OF THE EXISTING CARRIAGEWAY DIVIDER TO CONCRETE PROFILE BARRIERS, EXCEPT FOR BRIDGES AND VIADUCTS, WITHIN THE CLIMBING LANE SECTIONS WILL ALSO BE REQUIRED.
THE GOVERNMENT HAS ADOPTED A DESIGN AND BUILD TYPE CONTRACT TO ENABLE THE EARLIEST POSSIBLE START AND COMPLETION OF THE WORKS. CONSTRUCTION IS SCHEDULED TO START NEXT MAY AND BE COMPLETED IN MAY 1997.
DETAILS OF THE PREQUALIFICATION INVITATION ARE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
CONTRACTORS WITH RELEVANT EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE ARE INVITED TO APPLY. PREQUALIFTCATION DOCUMENTS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE REGIONAL HIGHWAY ENGINEER/NT, HIGHWAYS/NT REGION, THIRD FLOOR, HOMANTIN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 88 CHUNG HAU STREET, HO MAN TIN, KOWLOON.
/APPLICATIONS SHOULD .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
11
APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THE DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS NO LATER THAN NOON ON AUGUST 13.
FOLLOWING THE EXERCISE, TENDERS FROM THE PREQUALIFIED CONTRACTORS WILL BE INVITED IN OCTOBER THIS YEAR.
- - 0 - -
MODERATE INCREASE IN COURT INSOLVENCIES * * * * *
THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER, MR ROBIN HEARDER, ANNOUNCED THAT THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR SAW A MODERATE INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF NEW INSOLVENCIES REACHING THE COURTS.
THERE WERE 189 NEW COMPULSORY COMPANY LIQUIDATION ORDERS AND 167 PERSONAL BANKRUPTCY ORDERS IN THE SIX MONTHS COMPARED WITH THE CORRESPONDING FIGURES OF 170 AND 146 FOR THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
THERE WERE 111 PETITIONS WITHDRAWN OR DISMISSED, COMPARED WITH THE CORRESPONDING FIGURE OF 89 LAST YEAR.
IT WOULD BE SEEN, THEREFORE, THE TOTAL OF 356 NEW INSOLVENCIES HAD INCREASED BY 12.66 PER CENT WHICH WAS A CONTINUATION OF THE UPWARD TREND SINCE 1990, BUT STILL BELOW THE RECORD NUMBER OF 397 TOTAL NEW INSOLVENCIES FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 1985.
THE BUSINESSES MAINLY AFFECTED BY COMPULSORY COMPANY LIQUIDATIONS AND BANKRUPTCIES INCLUDED GARMENT AND KNITTING MANUFACTURING, COMPANY DIRECTORS GIVING PERSONAL GUARANTEES, RESTAURANTS AND CANTEENS, IMPORTERS AND EXPORTERS, CONSTRUCTION AND ENGINEERING AS WELL AS ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC MANUFACTURING.
PETITIONS WERE FILED BY THE DIRECTOR OF LEGAL AID (37 PER CENT), TRADE CREDITORS (48 PER CENT), BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS (14 PER CENT) AND OTHERS (1 PER CENT).
MORE COMPLICATED OR SIGNIFICANT INSOLVENCIES DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF THIS YEAR WERE META-GROW LIMITED, CONSO ELECTRONICS (FAR EAST) LIMITED AND ENIM OIL COMPANY LIMITED, CANADA SPRINGFIELD (HK) LIMITED, M S UNIVERSE TEXTILE LIMITED, EVEREX SYSTEMS (FAR EAST) LIMITED, EVEREX SYSTEMS PROCUREMENT LIMITED, HEROFORM INDUSTRIES LIMITED, DESSON INVESTMENT COMPANY LIMITED AND SKINK LIMITED.
DURING THE PERIOD, 36 SUMMONSES WERE ISSUED AGAINST DIRECTORS OF COMPANIES IN COMPULSORY LIQUIDATION FOR FAILURE TO SUBMIT STATEMENTS OF AFFAIRS TO THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER AND TO KEEP BOOKS AND ACCOUNTS OF WOUND-UP COMPANIES.
THIRTY DIRECTORS WERE CONVICTED. THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF FINES IMPOSED BY THE COURT WAS $202,748.
A DIRECTOR WAS FINED $60,000 IN A SINGLE CHARGE FOR FAILING TO PRESERVE THE ACCOUNTING RECORDS OF THE COMPANY.
/TOTAL DIVIDENDS
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
12
TOTAL DIVIDENDS DECLARED BY THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER DURING THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR AMOUNTED TO $121.1 MILLION TN 125 INSOLVENCIES, AS AGAINST $72.76 MILLION IN 117 INSOLVENCIES FOR THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD OF 1992.
THERE WERE 10 SCHEMES OF ARRANGEMENT/COMPOS1TIONS APPROVED BY THE COURT DURING THE PERIOD, AS COMPARED WITH SEVEN FOR THE SAME PERIOD IN THE PREVIOUS YEAR.
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ACTIVE INSOLVENCY CASES BEING HANDLED BY THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER’S OFFICE AT THE END OF JUNE WAS 1,983, REPRESENTING 1,190 COMPULSORY COMPANY LIQUIDATIONS AND 793 PERSONAL BANKRUPTCIES.
FUNDS ADMINISTERED BY THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER AT THE END OF JUNE THIS YEAR (EXCLUDING FUNDS PERTAINING TO THE BCCHK LIQUIDATIONS WHICH WERE PUBLISHED IN APRIL 1993) TOTALLED $1,217 MILLION AS COMPARED WITH $1,416 MILLION AT THE END OF JUNE LAST YEAR, REPRESENTING A REDUCTION OF $199 MILLION.
THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER ALSO ADMINISTERED THE SUMS OF US$2 MILLION (US$2.3 MILLION AT THE END OF JUNE 1992) AND JAPANESE YEN 13 MILLION (NIL AT JUNE 30, 1992).
------0-------
FURTHER IMPROVEMENT TO KOWLOON SEWER SYSTEM IN THE PIPELINE *****
THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT WILL SPEND ANOTHER $80 MILLION TO FURTHER IMPROVE THE SEWERAGE SYSTEM IN NORTHWEST KOWLOON.
NORTHWEST KOWLOON IS AN OLD RESIDENTIAL AND INDUSTRIAL AREA WITH SEWERAGE BASINS IN LAI CHI KOK, SHAM SHUI PO AND YAU MA TEI.
THE MAJOR PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH THE SEWERAGE SYSTEM ARE THAT ABOUT ONE-THIRD OF THE SEWAGE IS BEING DISCHARGED THROUGH STORM DRAINS TO COASTAL WATERS WITHOUT TREATMENT AND PART OF THE SYSTEM HAS INADEQUATE CAPACITY.
TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEMS, THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS CARRYING OUT AN IMPROVEMENT PROJECT - NORTHWEST KOWLOON SEWERAGE PROJECT - IN THREE STAGES.
STAGE I WORKS INVOLVING INTERCEPTION OF THE POLLUTED FLOW IN THE STORM DRAINS AND DIVERTING IT TO THE EXISTING SEWERAGE SYSTEM HAVE BEEN INCORPORATED INTO THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION PROJECT. THE WORKS WILL START IN LATE 1993.
THE PROJECT TOOK ANOTHER MAJOR STEP FORWARD THIS (FRIDAY) AFTERNOON WITH THE ENGAGEMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM FOR THE STAGE II WORKS BY THE DEPARTMENT.
THE FIRM, MONTGOMERY WATSON HONG KONG LIMITED, WILL CARRY OUT DETAILED DESIGN AND SUPERVISION OF THE CONSTRUCTION WORKS TO REPLACE OLD TRUNK AND BRANCH SEWERS IN 14 LOCATIONS SO AS TO INCREASE THE CAPACITY OF THE SEWERAGE SYSTEMS IN LAI CHI KOK, SHAM SHUI PO AND YAU MA TEI.
/THE WORKS .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
13
THE WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START EARLY 1995 AND BE COMPLETED IN LATE 1996. ON COMPLETION, THE RISK OF SEWAGE FLOODING IN THOSE AREAS WOULD BE SUBSTANTIALLY REDUCED.
THE NORTHWEST KOWLOON SEWERAGE PROJECT IS THE SECOND MAJOR IMPROVEMENT SCHEME FOR NORTHWEST KOWLOON.
THE FIRST WAS THE $1.3 BILLION NORTHWEST KOWLOON SEWAGE TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL PROJECT COMPLETED IN AUGUST 1992, ALLOWING SEWAGE COLLECTED IN THE AREAS TO BE TREATED AT THE TREATMENT PLANT ON STONECUTTERS ISLAND BEFORE DISPOSAL.
A CONSULTANCY AGREEMENT FOR THE STAGE II WORKS WAS SIGNED BETWEEN THE ACTING ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF DRAINAGE SERVICES (PROJECTS AND DEVELOPMENT), MR CLEMENT LAU AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE MONTGOMERY WATSON HONG KONG LIMITED.
-----o------
ADVANCE RECONSTRUCTION WORK FOR LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD
*****
WORKS TO REMOVE THE EXISTING CONCRETE CENTRAL DIVIDER ON LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD BETWEEN HUNG MUI KUK INTERCHANGE AND SHA TIN ROAD WILL START ON SUNDAY (JULY 18) AND BE COMPLETED IN AUGUST.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT SAID THE ADVANCE WORK WAS TO HELP THE TIDAL FLOW ARRANGEMENT AND TO MINIMISE TRAFFIC IMPACT DURING THE RECONSTRUCTION OF STAGE I OF THE LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD.
THE RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT INVOLVES THE SECTION OF LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD FROM THE TOLL PLAZA TO SHA TIN ROAD.
DURING STAGE I OF THE RECONSTRUCT ION WORK, TIDAL FLOW ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED TO EASE TRAFFIC FLOW IN THE MORNING AND EVENING PEAK HOURS.
’’TRAFFIC CYLINDERS TO DELINEATE LANES, WARNING LIGHTS AND SHORT SECTION OF SAFETY FENCE WILL BE ERECTED IN PLACE TO SEPARATE TRAFFIC,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE ADVANCE WORK WILL REDUCE THE CONSTRUCTION TIME OF THE SUBSEQUENT STAGE I RECONSTRUCTION WORKS FROM EIGHT MONTHS TO SEVEN MONTHS, HE ADDED.
DURING THE ADVANCE WORKS, THE FAST LANES TN BOTH DIRECTIONS WILL BE CLOSED DURING OFF-PEAK HOURS EACH DAY.
THE FAST LANE ON THE KOWLOON-BOUND CARRIAGEWAY WILL BE CLOSED FROM 10 AM TO 5 PM AND THAT ON THE NEW TERRTTORIES-BOUND CARRIAGEWAY FROM 10 AM TO 4 PM.
TO SHORTEN CONSTRUCTION TIME, NIGHT WORKING WILL ALSO BE REQUIRED.
’’HOWEVER, NIGHT WORKS WILL BE CONFINED TO ACTIVITIES WHICH WILL NOT GENERATE EXCESSIVE NOISE,” HE STRESSED.
/14 ........
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
14 BANKING LICENCE GRANTED TO SHIGA BANK *****
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT THE SHIGA BANK, LTD HAD BEEN GRANTED A BANKING LICENCE TO CONDUCT BUSINESS IN HONG KONG.
SHIGA IS THE 52ND LARGEST BANK IN JAPAN, AND RANKS 266TH IN THE WORLD IN TERMS OF CAPITAL.
BEFORE THE GRANTING OF THE BANKING LICENCE, THE BANK HAS BEEN OPERATING A REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE SINCE 1989.
THE NEW BRANCH WILL ENABLE THE BANK TO OFFER A WIDER RANGE OF BANKING SERVICES TO ITS CUSTOMERS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE CONTINUING INTEREST OF FOREIGN BANKS IN ENTERING THE LOCAL MARKET REFLECTED HONG KONG’S CONTINUED IMPORTANCE AS A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE.
THE LICENCE FOR SHIGA IS THE FIFTH BANKING LICENCE GRANTED THIS YEAR.
THERE ARE NOW 169 LICENSED BANKS IN HONG KONG, OF WHICH 137 ARE INCORPORATED OUTSIDE THE TERRITORY.
------0-------
UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT FIGURES FOR MARCH - MAY’ *****
THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR MARCH - MAY WAS 2.3%, AND THE UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE WAS 2.0%, ACCORDING TO THE LATEST LABOUR FORCE STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE PROVISIONAL SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR THE PERIOD APRIL - JUNE 1993 WAS 2.2%, WHILE THE PROVISIONAL UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE WAS 2.0%.
THE LATEST STATISTICS SUGGEST THAT BOTH THE UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATES REMAINED BROADLY STABLE.
DURING THE PERIOD MARCH - MAY 1993, THE NUMBER OF UNEMPLOYED PERSONS, ADJUSTED FOR VARIATIONS JN THE NUMBER OF FIRST-TIME JOBSEEKERS, WAS ESTIMATED AT 64,500, WHILE THE NUMBER OF UNDEREMPLOYED PERSONS WAS ESTIMATED AT 57,000.
THE UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS WERE OBTAINED FROM A CONTINUOUS GENERAL HOUSEHOLD SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE SURVEY FOR MARCH - MAY 1993 COVERED A QUARTERLY SAMPLE OF SOME 12,000 HOUSEHOLDS OR 41,500 PERSONS, SELECTED SCIENTIFICALLY TO REPRESENT THE LAND-BASED CIVILIAN NON-INSTITUTIONAL POPULATION IN HONG KONG.
/RELEVANT DATA .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
15
RELEVANT DATA WAS OBTAINED BY INTERVIEWING EACH INDIVIDUAL MEMBER AGED 15 AND ABOVE IN THE HOUSEHOLDS SAMPLED.
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 IN THE REPORT ON THE GENERAL HOUSEHOLD SURVEY WHICH IS PUBLISHED FOUR TIMES A YEAR.
THE NEXT REPORT COVERING THE QUARTER ENDING MARCH 1993 WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE BY LATE JULY AT $23.50 A COPY.
------0-------
NEW LAW PROVIDES EMPLOYEES BETTER PROTECTIONS *****
THE ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR ALFRED CHAN, TODAY (FRIDAY) REMINDED EMPLOYEES WHO WERE UNABLE TO CONTINUE THEIR EMPLOYMENT WITH THEIR EMPLOYERS AND CLAIM LONG SERVICE PAYMENT ON GROUNDS OF ILL HEALTH THAT THE MEDICAL CERTIFICATION PROCEDURES HAD BEEN SIMPLIFIED.
MR CHAN SAID UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE 1993 WHICH WAS APPROVED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY AND GAZETTED TODAY, ANY MEDICAL PRACTITIONER REGISTERED UNDER THE MEDICAL REGISTRATION ORDINANCE WOULD BE ALLOWED TO ISSUE THE CERTIFICATE.
PREVIOUSLY, AN EMPLOYEE MUST BE CERTIFIED BY A MEDICAL PRACTITIONER PRACTISING IN A GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT-SUBVENTED OR PUBLIC HOSPITAL AS PERMANENTLY UNFIT FOR THE TYPE OF WORK HE IS PERFORMING, HE SAID.
”IF THE EMPLOYER IS NOT SATISFIED WITH THE MEDICAL ASSESSMENT MADE BY THE EMPLOYEE, HE MAY, AT HIS OWN EXPENSE, APPOINT ANOTHER MEDICAL PRACTITIONER TO REASSESS HIS EMPLOYEE’S MEDICAL CONDITIONS.
"SHOULD THE MEDICAL OPINIONS OF THE TWO ASSESSMENTS BE IN CONFLICT, THE CASE MAY BE REFERRED TO THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR FOR DETERMINATION," MR CHAN ADDED.
HE SAID THE AMENDMENT ORDINANCE ALSO PROVIDED BETTER PROTECTION TO AN EMPLOYEE WHO HAD GIVEN EVIDENCE OR INFORMATION AGAINST HIS EMPLOYER TO THE AUTHORITIES CONCERNED IN CONNECTION WITH THE ENFORCEMENT OF THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE OR BREACHES OF WORK SAFETY REGULATIONS.
THE LEGISLATION EMPOWERS THE COURT OR MAGISTRATE TO ORDER THE EMPLOYER TO PAY COMPENSATION TO HIS EMPLOYEE SHOULD HE BE CONVICTED.
THE COMPENSATION WILL BE IN ADDITION TO ANY FINE IMPOSED BY THE COURT OR THE MAGISTRATE, MR CHAN ADDED.
ANOTHER NEW MEASURE STIPULATED IN THE ORDINANCE RELATES TO THE LAY-OFF PROVISIONS.
/FOLLOWING THE .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
16
FOLLOWING THE ENACTMENT OF THE NEW EMPLOYMENT LAW, THE DAYS OF LOCK OUT, REST DAYS, STATUTORY HOLIDAYS AND ANNUAL LEAVE DAYS WILL NOT BE RECKONED AS NORMAL WORKING DAYS DURING THE REFERENCE PERIOD.
THE NEW LEGISLATION ALSO PROVIDES AN EMPLOYER AN OPTION TO SPECIFY ANY PERIOD OF 12 CONSECUTIVE MONTHS AS THE COMMON LEAVE YEAR FOR HIS EMPLOYEES.
THIS MEASURE WILL REDUCE THE GREAT DEAL OF ADMINISTRATIVE WORK IMPOSED ON AN EMPLOYER IN KEEPING TRACK OF ALL HIS EMPLOYEES’ ANNUAL LEAVE SINCE DIFFERENT EMPLOYEES HAVE DIFFERENT STARTING DAYS OF THEIR LEAVE YEAR, MR CHAN NOTED.
------0-------
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARD OF EDUCATION * * * * *
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER. MR MICHAEL LEUNG, ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THE APPOINTMENT OF THE FOLLOWING THREE PERSONS TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION:
* MR MICHAEL HONG MAN-HOI, PRINCIPAL OF SHUN LEE CATHOLIC SECONDARY SCHOOL;
* MR HERMAN HU SHAO-MING, AN ELECTRICAL ENGINEER BY PROFESSION, AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF A NUMBER OF COMPANIES;
AND
* MRS GRACE HUI WONG KING-MAN, PRINCIPAL OF TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS WONG FUT NAM COLLEGE.
THEY ARE APPOINTED ON A TWO-YEAR TERM STARTING JULY 1 THIS YEAR.
------0-------
WATER WORK PROJECT ON LANTAU
*****
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING APPROVED CONTRACTORS TO PARTICIPATE IN A PREQUALIFICATION EXERCISE FOR CONSTRUCTING AQUEDUCTS FROM SIU HO WAN TO SILVERMINE BAY ON LANTAU ISLAND.
THE CONTRACT INVOLVES THE LAYING OF ABOUT SEVEN KILOMETRES OF PRESSURE TUNNEL AND ABOUT 0.4 KILOMETRE OF WELDED STEEL WATER MAINS, PORTAL WORKS, AUXILIARY PIPEWORKS, ACCESS ROADS AND INSTRUMENTATION WORKS.
THOSE ON THE APPROVED CONTRACTORS FOR PUBLIC WORKS LIST I IN GROUP C CONFIRMED FOR WATERWORKS, OR LIST II CONFIRMED FOR WATERWORKS MAY APPLY FOR PREQUAL IFI CAT I ON DOCUMENTS’ FROM PHH/SWK WATER CONSULTANTS, THIRD FLOOR, ASIAN HOUSE, I HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
/TENDERS ARE .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
- 17 -
TENDERS ARE EXPECTED TO CONTRACTORS LATER THIS YEAR AND THE COMPLETE.
BE CALLED
PROJECT WILL
FROM
TAKE
PREQUALIFIED
24 MONTHS TO
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS
NOON ON AUGUST 16.
- - 0
VILLAGE ACCESS ROADS IN TUEN MUN PROPOSED
*****
THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT PROPOSES TO CONSTRUCT TWO NEW ROADS AND FOOTWAYS IN SUN FUNG WAI AND NAI WAI, TUEN MUN TO SERVE THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE AREA.
THE WORK IS ONE OF THE PROPOSED ITEMS UNDER THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BASED RURAL PLANNING AND IMPROVEMENT STRATEGY PROGRAMME.
DETAILS OF THE PROPOSAL WERE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY). A NOTICE IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE CAN BE SEEN ON NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITE OF THE PROPOSED WORKS.
PLANS SHOWING THE AREAS AND ROADS TO BE AFFECTED CAN BE INSPECTED AT:
* CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 3R PIER ROAD CENTRAL, HONG KONG; ’
* DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, TUEN MUN, TUEN MUN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, SIXTH FLOOR, 1 TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN, NEW
TERRITORIES; AND
♦ TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICE, TUEN MUN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, SECOND FLOOR, 1 TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN, NEW TERRITORIES.
ANY PERSON WISHING TO OBJECT TO THE PROPOSAL SHOULD SEND HIS WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG BEFORE SEPTEMBER 14, 1993.
------0 - -
/18 ........
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
36 MADE JUSTICES OF PEACE *****
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT 36 PERSONS HAD BEEN APPOINTED AS NON-OFFICIAL JUSTICES OF THE PEACE WITH EFFECT FROM JUNE 3 THIS YEAR.
THE APPOINTMENTS, GAZETTED TODAY, ARE:
MR BARMA TYEBJEE HATAM, ISO DR CHAN LAI-WAN, CECILIA MR CHAN SING-CHUK, CHARLES PROF CHAN TA I-KWONG MR CHAN W1NG-KEE DR CHANG SAU-HAN, JOYCE DR CHAO SZE-BANG,FRANK PROF CHEN CHAR-NIE PROF THE HON CHEN KWAN-YIU, EDWARD THE HON CHENG HOI-CHUEN, VINCENT MR CHEUNG WING-SUM, AMBROSE DR THE HON CH’IEN KUO-FUNG, RAYMOND MR CHIU JAMES MR CHOY KAN-PUI, ALEX MR FAN CHOR-HO, PAUL MR GAIRNS DAVID WYLIE DR HODGKISS IVOR JOHN MR LAI KAM-CHEUNG, MICHAEL DR THE HON LAM KUI-SHING, CONRAD MRS LAU PONG ELIM MR LEE YEH-KWONG, CHARLES DR THE HON LEONG CHE-HUNG, EDWARD, OBE PROF LEONG CHI-YAN, JOHN MR LEUNG KAM-CHUNG, ANTONY MR LEUNG SAU-CHI MR LI YUET-TING, CBE MR LUNG PING-YEE, DAVID MR NEOH ANTHONY FRANCIS, QC DR NG MUNG-CHAN, AGNES MR PONG CHONG, EDWARD MR SO HOI-PAN MR TSANG SIU-CHUN MS TSUI WAI-LING, CARLYE MR WONG PO-HANG, ALEX MR WOO KWONG-CHING, PETER MR YEUNG YIU-TIN, JEROME
WITH THESE APPOINTMENTS, THERE ARE NOW A TOTAL OF 534 NON-OFFTCIAL JUSTICES OF THE PEACE IN HONG KONG.
- - 0 - -
/19
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
19
OPERATION TO STAMP OUT ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS
*****
A ROUND-THE-CLOCK OPERATION AGAINST ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION JOINTLY MOUNTED BY THE POLICE, THE LABOUR AND IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENTS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY HAS RESULTED IN THE ARRESTS OF 107 PERSONS.
THE OPERATION WAS PART OF THE GOVERNMENT’S ONGOING EFFORT TO FLUSH OUT ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
THE 104 SUSPECTED ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS ARRESTED BY THE POLICE HAD BEEN REFERRED TO THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT. THOSE FOUND TO BE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WILL BE REPATRIATED.
THE OTHER THREE PERSONS WERE ARRESTED BY IMMIGRATION INVESTIGATORS.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN REITERATED TODAY (FRIDAY) 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 CHEATING HIMSELF," HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID APART FROM CONTINUOUS CHECKS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY, THERE WAS NO LET-UP IN ANTI-ILLEGAL 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 YESTERDAY (THURSDAY) AND ENDED AT 5 AM TODAY, THE POLICE HAD STEPPED UP THEIR IDENTIFICATION SPOT CHECKS IN PUBLIC PLACES AND CARRIED OUT CHECKS AT SUSPICIOUS LOCATIONS.
AS A RESULT, A TOTAL OF 13,398 PERSONS, 2,122 VEHICLES AND 312 VESSELS WERE STOPPED FOR IDENTIFICATION CHECKS.
ON THE LABOUR FRONT, INSPECTORS OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT VISITED 2,389 ESTABLISHMENTS TO WEED OUT ANY ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WHO MAY BE WORKING, AND TO CHECK THAT EMPLOYERS FULFIL THEIR LEGAL OBLIGATION OF KEEPING PROPER RECORDS OF THEIR EMPLOYEES.
A TOTAL OF 7,821 EMPLOYEES HAD THEIR PROOF OF IDENTITY CHECKED DURING THE OPERATION.
FOURTEEN ESTABLISHMENTS WERE FOUND NOT ABLE TO PROVIDE A RECORD OF EMPLOYEES FOR INSPECTION.
THE SPOKESMAN REMINDED EMPLOYERS THAT THEY COULD BE FINED UP TO $250,000 AND JAILED FOR UP TO THREE YEARS IF THEY WERE FOUND TO BE EMPLOYING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
--------0-----------
/20 .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
20
FOOTBRIDGE LINK WITH WAN CHAJ RECLAMATION
* ♦ « ♦ »
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT TS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF GLOUCESTER ROAD FOOTBRIDGE EXTENSIONS TO PROVIDE AN ACCESS TO THE WAN CHAI RECLAMATION.
THE TWO EXISTING FOOTBRIDGES ACROSS GLOUCESTER ROAD AT TONNOCHY ROAD AND FENWICK STREET WILL BE DEMOLISHED. TWO REPLACEMENT COVERED FOOTBRIDGES WILL BE BUILT. ASSOCIATED ROADS, DRAINAGE AND LANDSCAPE WORKS WILL ALSO BE CARRIED OUT.
ON COMPLETION, THE REPLACEMENT FOOTBRIDGES WILL PROVIDE IMPROVED GRADE-SEPARATED PEDESTRIAN ACCESS ACROSS GLOUCESTER ROAD AT TONNOCHY ROAD AND FENWICK STREET.
WORKS WILL START IN OCTOBER 1993 AND BE COMPLETED IN MARCH 1995.
THE DESIGNER, WALLACE EVANS ASIA LIMITED, WILL SUPERVISE THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE WORKS FOR THE DEPARTMENT.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE OFFICE OF WALLACE EVANS ASIA LIMITED ON 14TH FLOOR, OTB BUILDING, 160 GLOUCESTER ROAD, HO^G KONG. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TELEPHONE 575 1701.
AN INVITATION NOTICE IS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
TENDERS MUST BE CLEARLY MARKED AND ADDRESSED TO THE CHAIRMAN, CENTRAL TENDER BOARD, AND PLACED IN THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT TENDER BOX AT THE LIFT LOBBY ON THE LOWER GROUND FLOOR OF THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES (EAST WING), LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG, BEFORE NOON ON AUGUST 13.
-----0------
AMBULANCEMEN COMMENDED FOR LIFE SAVING
*****
SEVEN AMBULANCEMEN WERE TODAY (FRIDAY) PRAISED FOR THEIR PROFESSIONAL SKILL WHICH HELPED SAVE THE LIVES OF TWO MEN IN TWO SEPARATE CASES IN APRIL THIS YEAR.
IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES, THE ACTING CHIEF AMBULANCE OFFICER, MR MAK KWAI-PUI, PRESENTED THEM WITH HIS COMMENDATION AND FAVOURABLE ENTRY.
SPEAKING AT THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY AT TSUEN WAN AMBULANCE DEPOT, MR MAK SAID THEIR PERFORMANCES NOT ONLY BROUGHT CREDIT TO THEMSELVES BUT ALSO TO THE AMBULANCE SERVICE.
IN THE FIRST CASE, A 60-YEAR-OLD MAN WAS REPORTEDLY COLLAPSED AT HIS SAN TSUEN STREET HOME IN TSUEN WAN ON APRIL 14 AND A TEAM OF AMBULANCEMEN WAS IMMEDIATELY SENT TO THE SCENE.
/TOGETHER WITH .......
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1993
- 21 -
TOGETHER WITH THREE CREW MEMBERS, SENIOR AMBULANCEMAN LAM MAN-CHUN APPLIED CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) ON THE MAN UNTIL HE REGAINED HEART BEAT AND RESPIRATION.
THE MAN WAS TAKEN TO HOSPITAL AND DISCHARGED ON JUNE 14.
IN THE SECOND CASE, A 45-YEAR-OLD MAN WAS FOUND COLLAPSED IN A TSUEN WAN CLINIC WHILE WAITING FOR TREATMENT ON APRIL 24.
SENIOR AMBULANCEMAN LAM MAN-CHUN, THE AMBULANCE-AID MOTORCYCLE RIDER RESPONDING TO THE CALL, APPLIED DEFIBRILLATION AND CPR ON THE PATIENT WITH THE HELP OF THE DOCTOR OF THE CLINIC UNTIL HE RESTORED HEART BEAT AND BREATHING.
ON THE WAY TO HOSPITAL, THE PATIENT WAS UNDER OXYGEN ADMINISTRATION AND CLOSE MONITORING BY OTHER AMBULANCE CREW. HE WAS DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL ON JUNE 15.
AWARDED THE CHIEF AMBULANCE OFFICER’S COMMENDATION WERE SENIOR AMBULANCEMEN LAM MAN-CHUN AND CHAN KA-FAI, AND AMBULANCEMEN CHANG YIN AND MAK YIP-WAH.
THE FAVOURABLE ENTRY WENT TO PRINCIPAL AMBULANCEMAN CHAN CHUN-LOONG, AND AMBULANCEMEN LEE NAI-KWONG AND HO SHU-CHEONG, WHO RENDERED EXCELLENT SERVICE TO THE SECOND PATIENT.
--------0-----------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS * ♦ ♦ » ♦
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
FUND
$ MILLION
1,631
+ 1,169
2,800
NIL
-791
2,009
TWI 112.8 *+0.2» 16.7.93
/HONG KONG
<
FRIDAY, JULY 16, 1°°3
22
EF TERMS HONG BILLS YIELD KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS YIELD
TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE
1 WEEK 2.28 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.65 3.79
1 MONTH 2.61 PCT 16 MONTHS 24 11 4.625 100.89 3.97
3 MONTHS 3.08 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.00 4.13
6 MONTHS 3.38 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 99.02 4.36
12 MONTHS 3.72 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 27,220 MN
CLOSED 16 JULY 1993
---------0-----------
Re«ived by PRo °D—IO JUL 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, JULY 17, 1993
CONTENTS
PAGE NO,
PROPERTY TRANSACTION FIGURES FOR JUNE .......................
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY CAMPAIGNS RESULT TN 227 PROSECUTIONS
LUCKY CAR REGISTRATION MARKS SALE BY AUCTION ................
AWARD SCHEME FOR BEST COUNTER STAFF .........................
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONFY MARKET OPERATIONS
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
PILOT SCHEME ON YOUTH DENTAL CARE PROGRAMME LAUNCHED ........ 8
49 NEW BUILDING PLANS APPROVED IN MAY ....................... 9
MORE ’93 UNCIRCULATED COIN SETS ON SALE ..................... 10
ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDS GO ON SHOW AT PRESS CONFERENCE 11
HUNG HOM STREET AND LANES RECONSTRUCTION .................... ]]
RECONSTRUCTION OF PART OF BELFRAN ROAD ...................... 12
BUILDING MANAGEMENT COURSE FOR SHAM SHUT PO RESIDENTS ....... 13
WEATHER OF JUNE ............................................. 14
SATURDAY, JULY 17, 1993
1
PROPERTY TRANSACTION FIGURES FOR JUNE t t t « *
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENTS OF BUILDING UNITS, MAINLY FLATS, RECEIVED FOR REGISTRATION IN THE LAND REGISTRi LAST MONTH DECREASED BY 6.4 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE PREVIOUS MONTH AND BY 7.4 PER CENT COMPARED WITH JUNE LAST YEAR.
IN ALL, 12,807 SUCH AGREEMENTS WERE RECEIVED FOR REGISTRATION DURING THE MONTH. THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF THE CONSIDERATIONS INVOLVED WAS $43.4 BILLION.
THESE FIGURES ARE INCLUDED IN THE MONTHLY STATISTICS ON PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS RECEIVED FOR REGISTRATION IN THE URBAN AND NEW TERRITORIES LAND REGISTRIES RELEASED TODAY (SATURDAY) BY THE LAND REGISTRAR.
A TABLE SHOWING THE RELEVANT STATISTICS FOR MAY 1993 AND FOR JUNE LAST YEAR IS ALSO RELEASED.
THERE WERE SEVEN BUILDING MORTGAGES AND 12,216 OTHER MORTGAGES RECEIVED FOR REGISTRATION IN THE MONTH, COMPARED TO EIGHT AND 15,168 RESPECTIVELY IN JUNE LAST YEAR.
THE TOTAL AMOUNT SECURED UNDER NEW BUILDING MORTGAGES IN THE MONTH WAS $0.16 BILLION COMPARED WITH $0.12 BILLION IN JUNE LAST YEAR.
THE TOTAL AMOUNT SECURED UNDER NEW MORTGAGES IN THE Ku,.... OTHER THAN BUILDING MORTGAGES DROPPED BY 29.9 PER CENT FROM $9.51 BILLION IN JUNE 1992 TO $6.67 BILLION IN JUNE THIS YEAR.
REPAYMENTS UNDER MORTGAGES OF ALL KINDS, AS EVIDENCED BY DISCHARGES AND MORTGAGEE’S RECEIPTS, DECREASED BY 25.5 PER CENT FROM $4.70 BILLION IN JUNE LAST YEAR TO $3.50 BILLION IN JUNE THIS YEAR.
/THE LAND .......
THE LAND REGISTRY
Comparison of Monthly Statistics
/THE LAND
Month : June 1993
itan 1993 June 1993 May 1992 Judo June 1993 Increase (+) or Decrease (-) a* compared with
May 1993 Juno 1992
No. or Coondcradon Percentage No. or Conaideralior Percentage
1. Agreement* for Sala and Purchase of Budding UmU • (a) No. (b) Cooridertuon 12,807 $43,435,385,441.43 13.678 $33,869,683,513.83 13.834 $32,506,647,680.25 871 ♦ $9,565,701,927.60 ♦ 6.4 28.2 1,02' ♦ $10,923,737,761.18 - 7.4 ♦ 33.6
2. Agreements for Sale and Purchase of Land (a) No. (b) Condderatlon 339 $9,548,962,141.72 362 $5,413,809,574.16 462 $5,404,713,717.76 23 ♦ $4,135,152,567.56 I ♦ 6.4 76.4 123 ♦ $4,144,248,423.96 26.6 ♦ 76.7
(a) No. (b) Consideration 13,146 $52,984,347,583.15 14,040 $39,283,493,087.99 14.296 $37,911,361,398.01 894 ♦ $13,700,854,495.16 I ♦ 6.4 34.9 1,150 ♦ $15,072,986,185.14 8.0 ♦ 39.8
3. AadgmuecU of Building Urdu
(a) No. (b) Canaid&ntuon 11.123 $23,239,881,877.00 14.071 $24,857,154,478.11 14.851 $29,936,064,440.65 2.948 - $1,617,272,601.11 - 21.0 6.5 3,728 $6,696,182,563.65 25.1 22.4
4. Assignments of 1 and (a) No. (b) Cctudderadon 564 $4,212,205,466.72 614 $7.9^5.546.795.16 997 $4,104,716,577.57 ♦ 50 - $3,693,341,328.44 ♦ 8.1 46.7 333 ♦ $107,488,889.15 33.4 ♦ 2.6 1 bJ
1
(a) No. (b) CoocidenlJon 11.787 $27,452,087,343.72 14,685 $32,762,701,273.27 15.848 $34,040,781,018.22 2.898 - $3,310,613,929.55 — 19.7 16.2 4.061 $6,538,693,674.50 25.6 19.4
J. Building Mortgagee/Building Legal Chargee (a) No. (b) Consideration 7 $162,183,000.00 II $3,265,200,000.00 8 $115,682,000.00 4 - $3,103,017,000.00 - 36.4 95.0 1 ♦ $46,501,000.00 12.5 ♦ 40.2
6. Other Mortgagee/Legal Chargee (a) No. (b) CrmeWrradoo 12.216 $6,665,429,054.67 14,309 $6,984,694,312.11 15,168 $9,512,516,926.35 2.093 $319,265,257.44 | - 14.6 4.6 Xf« $2,847,087,871.68 19.5 29.9
gub-tpUj j
(a) No. Co) Conaidomdon 12,223 $6,827,612,054.67 14,320 $10,249,894,312.11 15,176 $9,628.198,926.35 2,097 - $3,422.28X 257.44 | - 14.6 33.4 2,953 $2,800,586,871.68 19.5 29.1
7. Reoeipta/Dischargea/Rdcases (.) No. (b) Condderadoo 8,252 $3,498,246,315.92 8.380 88.2G5.854,926.48 12.182 $4,696,660,008.50 128 - $4,708,608,610.56 - 1.5 57.4 3,930 - $1,198,413,692.58 32.3 25.5
SATURDAY, JULY 17, 19^3
THE LAND REGISTRY
Consolidated Monthly Statistics in respect of deeds received for registration in the Urban and New Territories District Land Registries
Month :Jime 1993
Item Nature of Deeds Kimber of Deeds received for registration Consideration ($)
Urban Nev Territories Total Urban Nev Territories lb tai
1. Agreements for Sale and 8,710 4,097 12,807 43,435,385,441.43
Purchase of Building Units ( 9,071 ) ( 4,191 ) ( 13,262 ) 36,341,895,689.73 7,093,489,751.70
2. Agreements for Sale and 66 273 ’ 339 8,531,176,610.00 1,017,785,531.72 9,548,962,141.72
Purchase of Land
Sub-total (1) ♦ (2) 8,776 4,370 13,146 44,873,072,299.73 8,111,275,283.42 52,984,347,583.15
3. Assignments of Building Units 5,924 5,199 11,123 23,239,881,877.00
( 6,110 ) ( 5,507 ) ( 11,617 ) 15,117,486,146.30 8,122,395,730.70
4. Assignments of Land 37 627 664 3,346,849,620.00 865,355,846.72 4,212,205,466.72
Sub-total (3) ♦ (4) 5,961 5,826 11,787 18,464,335,766.30 8,987,751,577.42 27,452,087,343.72
5. Building Mortgages/Building 6 1 7 161,783,000.00 400,000.00 162,183,000.00
Legal Charges I
6. Other Mortgages/Legal Charges 6,368 5,848 12,216 4,037,153,821.02 2,628,275,233.65 6,665,429,054.67
Sub-total (5) + (6) 6,374 5,849 12,223 4,198,936,821.02 2,628,675,233.65 6,827,612,054.67
7. Receipts/Discharges/Releases 5,031 3,221 8,252 2,932,065,402.30 566,180,913.62 3,498,246,315.92
8. Leases/Tenancy Agreements 323 201 524
9. Exclusion Orders 0 0 0
10. Others 3,091 2,591 5,682
1b tai 29,556 22,058 51,614 70,468,410,289.35 20,293,883,008.11 90,762,293,297.46
Note t Figures in brackets denote nifnber of units involved
SATURDAY, JULY 17, 1993
SATURDAY, JULY 17, 1993
4
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY CAMPAIGNS RESULT IN 227 PROSECUTIONS
*****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS RECENTLY PROSECUTED MORE THAN 200 BUILDING CONTRACTORS AND FACTORY OWNERS FOR BREACHING INDUSTRIAL SAFETY REGULATIONS.
THE LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTION WAS TAKEN FOLLOWING TWO RECENT CAMPAIGNS LAUNCHED BY THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE DIVISION TO IMPROVE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY ON CONSTRUCTION SITES AND FACTORIES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.
THESE SPECIAL EXERCISES WERE MOUNTED IN ADDITION TO THE NORMAL DAY-TO-DAY ROUTINE INSPECTIONS.
CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR MR CHAN TAT-KING SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT BESIDES SPREADING THE SAFETY GOSPEL, THE CAMPAIGNS HAD RESULTED IN A TOTAL OF 227 PROSECUTIONS, 89 OF THEM WERE AGAINST CONSTRUCTION SITES WHILE THE REMAINING 138 AGAINST FACTORIES FOR BREACHING VARIOUS OFFENCES UNDER THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ORDINANCE.
’’THESE PROSECUTIONS COMPRISED 353 SUMMONSES, 175 OF WHICH WERE ISSUED TO SITE CONTRACTORS AND THE REMAINING 178 TO FACTORY PROPRIETORS.
DURING THE PHASE I SPECIAL CAMPAIGN ON SITE SAFETY WHICH WAS CONCLUDED IN THE MIDDLE OF LAST MONTH, FACTORY INSPECTORS FROM THE DEPARTMENT CARRIED OUT 370 INSPECTIONS TO SOME 180 CONSTRUCTION SITES.
’’FAILING TO SET UP GUARD-RAILS OR COVERS TO DANGEROUS PLACES IS THE MOST COMMON OFFENCE COMMITTED BY THE CONTRACTORS.
’’OTHER OFFENCES INCLUDED FAILING TO ENSURE WORKERS TO WEAR SAFETY HELMETS AND THE PROVISION OF UNSUITABLE SCAFFOLDS AND WORKING PLATFORMS,” MR CHAN SAID.
APART FROM TAKING ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS, FACTORY INSPECTORS ALSO GAVE ADVICE TO 124 SUB-CONTRACTORS.
MR CHAN NOTED THAT THE CAMPAIGN WAS SPECIALLY DESIGNED TO ENSURE SAFETY ON WORK SITES THROUGH INTENSIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS.
"PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE SHOWED THAT THESE SPECIAL INSPECTIONS WERE VERY EFFECTIVE PARTICULARLY DURING THE HOT AND RAINY SEASON," HE SAID.
THE PHASE II OPERATION WILL START IN SEPTEMBER FOR TWO MONTHS. FACTORY INSPECTORS WILL EXERCISE GREAT VIGILANCE ON OFFENCES RELATING TO UNSAFE SCAFFOLDS AS IMPROVEMENT TO THE SAFETY OF SCAFFOLDS REMAINS ONE OF THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE’S MAJOR TARGETS THIS YEAR.
ON THE SPECIAL CAMPAIGN ON FACTORIES LAUNCHED IN MAY, A TOTAL OF 1,406 FACTORIES WERE INSPECTED.
"MOST OF THE SUMMONSES TAKEN OUT WERE RELATED TO REGULATIONS ON GUARDING OF MACHINERY AND FIRE PRECAUTIONS IN NOTIFIABLE WORKPLACES.
"IN ADDITION, 954 WARNINGS WERE ISSUED TO FACTORY OPERATORS OR PROPRIETORS, URGING THEM TO IMPROVE SAFETY IN THEIR WORKPLACES," HE ADDED.
------0------------
/5 .......
SATURDAY, JULY 17, 1993
- 5 -
LUCKY CAR REGISTRATION MARKS SALE BY AUCTION
•fe * * * *
FIFTY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WERE PUT UP FOR AUCTION THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING FOR A TOTAL OF $2,109,000 WHICH WILL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY PURPOSES AFTER DEDUCTION OF EXPENSES INCURRED.
THE AUCTION, HELD AT THE LECTURE HALL OF SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, SAV/ THE REGISTRATION MARK FN88 FETCH THE HIGHEST PRICE OF $320,000.
ANOTHER REGISTRATION MARK FM99 WAS SOLD AT THE SECOND HIGHEST PRICE OF $188,000 WHILE THE LOWEST PRICE WAS $1,000 EACH FOR FF3620, FF1314, CR3240.
FOLLOWING ARE THE RESULTS OF TODAY’S AUCTION:
$ $ $ $
FF2280 4,000 FF168 130,000 FF911 42,000 FF687 12,000
FF339 20,000 FF2333 24,000 FF827 16,000 FB168 116,000
*FJ1818 30,000 *FM4 40,000 *FM900 36,000 *FN88 320,000
AT118 84,000 FF1681 22,000 FF8113 7,000 FF730 4,000
FF812 14,000 AA230 40,000 FF228 66,000 AA1480 22,000
DT269 10,000 FF180 30,000 AC3822 28,000 FF277 11,000
FF866 22,000 FF8088 34,000 FF328 100,000 FF3620 1,000
*CC2000 56,000 *FK5 120,000 *613 120,000 *FM99 188,000
FF128 50,000 AT228 54,000 FF782 8,000 CW1280 9,000
FF2281 4,000 FF322 32,000 AH702 10,000 FF9338 12,000
AA8602 15,000 FF7168 14,000 *FL717 18,000 FF5222 10,000
CR3240 1,000 FF7770 28,000 FF1314 1,000 *AA4444 70,000
FF9295 WITHDRAWN FF4443 3,000
* SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION 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 BIDDER WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE DATE OF AUCTION.
TODAY’S SALE, THE 198TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973, BROUGHT THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF MONEY REALISED SO FAR TO 207.196,905.
THERE WAS NO BIDDER FOR FF9295. THIS VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK WILL BE ASSIGNED TO THE ORIGINAL APPLICANT.
/6.........
SATURDAY, JULY 17, 1993
6
AWARD SCHEME FOR BEST COUNTER STAFF *****
MORE THAN 3,400 NOMINATION FORMS WERE RETURNED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AFTER THE BEST LICENSING SERVICE AWARD SCHEME WAS LAUNCHED IN JUNE, THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT, MR RAFAEL HUI, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY, MR HUI SAID THE BEST 10 COUNTER STAFF RECEIVED A TOTAL OF ABOUT 1,500 NOMINATIONS.
"OF THESE, 72 PER CENT OF OUR CUSTOMERS CONSIDERED THEIR SERVICE EFFICIENT; 64 PER CENT SAID OUR STAFF ARE POLITE AND SINCERE, 58 PER CENT CONSIDERED OUR PRIZE-WINNING STAFF PLEASANT, AND 47 PER CENT CONSIDERED THEM VERY NICE WHILE AT WORK," HE SAID.
MR HUI NOTED THAT THE AWARDEES AND OTHER MEMBERS OF THE TEAM WERE INDEED THE DEPARTMENT’S SERVICE AMBASSADORS AND THEY HAVE TO FACE AN EVER-INCREASING WORKLOAD.
"THE GOVERNMENT DO RECOGNISE THEIR DIFFICULT TASKS AND ARE ACTIVELY TAKING ACTION TO IMPROVE THE SERVICE ENVIRONMENT," HE SAID.
MR HUI ENSURED THAT A LOT MORE WOULD BE DONE TO FURTHER THE DEPARTMENT’S PERFORMANCE PLEDGE SCHEME ON LICENSING SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY OF HONG KONG.
THE BEST LICENSING SERVICE AWARD SCHEME IS SPONSORED BY THE SHELL HONG KONG LIMITED.
DURING THE CEREMONY, SHELL’S DIRECTOR OF HONG KONG AND MACAU, MR ROBERT YOUNG, SAID ACCORDING TO THE VOTERS, EFFICIENCY AND POLITENESS WERE THE MAJOR CRITERIA FOR GOOD SERVICE.
IN EXTENDING CONGRAGULATION TO THE 10 AWARDEES, MR YOUNG SAID PUBLIC RESPONSE TOWARDS THE AWARD SCHEME TURNED OUT TO BE VERY ENCOURAGING AND THIS TRULY SPELLED OUT THE RELIABLE SERVICE OF THE LICENSING STAFF.
THE 10 AWARDEES ARE MISS CHAN WAI-YING, MISS FAN YEE-LUN, MS LAI CHING-YING, MR MAK YAT-HUNG (HONG KONG LICENSING OFFICE); MS CHEUNG CHOI-LIN, MS LAW PUN-LAN, MR TSANG SUN-FOOK (KOWLOON LICENSING OFFICE); MR LEUNG YIU-WAH (SHA TIN LICENSING OFFICE); MISS WONG KAM-MAI (KWUN TONG LICENSING OFFICE) AND MISS HUI MEI-WA (KOWLOON DRIVING TEST APPOINTMENT OFFICE).
AT THE CEREMONY, 10 NOMINATORS WERE ALSO DRAWN BY MR HUI AND MR YOUNG. EACH WILL BE AWARDED OIL COUPON WORTH $800. THEY WILL BE NOTIFIED INDIVIDUALLY.
/7 .......
SATURDAY, JULY 17, 1993
7
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ******
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,009
REVERSAL OF LAF +30
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,039
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY _680
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,359
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.7 »-0.1* 17.7.93
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/8
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
8
PILOT SCHEME ON YOUTH DENTAL CARE PROGRAMME LAUNCHED { ******
A PILOT SCHEME WHICH AIMS AT TRANSFERRING PRIMARY SIX SCHOOLLEAVERS FROM THE EXISTING SCHOOL DENTAL CARE SERVICE TO A PRIVATE PRACTICE-BASED DENTAL PROGRAMME IN THEIR SECONDARY SCHOOL YEARS WAS OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED BY THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR MARGARET CHAN, TODAY (SUNDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY, DR CHAN SAID THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAD COLLABORATED WITH THE HONG KONG DENTAL ASSOCIATION IN PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTING THE YOUTH DENTAL CARE PROGRAMME FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS, THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN HONG KONG.
DR CHAN NOTED THAT AMONGST VARIOUS HUMAN DISEASES, DENTAL PROBLEMS WERE MOST SUSCEPTIBLE TO PREVENTIVE MEASURES.
’’BOTH THE DENTAL SUB-COMMITTEE REPORT OF THE FORMER MEDICAL DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND THE REPORT OF THE WORKING PARTY ON PRIMARY CARE POINT TOWARDS THE DIRECTION THAT FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF DENTAL HEALTH SERVICES SHOULD BE IN THE DIRECTION OF DISEASE PREVENTION AND HEALTH MAINTENANCE.
’’THE CONCEPT OF HEALTH MAINTENANCE CAN ONLY BE ACHIEVED THROUGH REPETITIVE MASS EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES AS WELL AS PERSONALISED INSTRUCTIONS.
”IT IS MOST SIGNIFICANT THAT THIS COLLABORATIVE PROGRAMME BE LAUNCHED AT THIS TIME,” SHE SAID.
THE PILOT SCHEME OF THE YOUTH DENTAL CARE PROGRAMME IS SET UP BY THE HONG KONG DENTAL ASSOCIATION IN TUEN MUN AND YUEN LONG AREAS, INVOLVING A TARGET OF 9,765 PRIMARY SIX STUDENTS AND OVER 50 DENTISTS WORKING IN THE LOCALITY.
ALL PRIMARY SIX STUDENTS ATTENDING THE TUEN MUN SCHOOL DENTAL CLINIC BEFORE THE END OF OCTOBER 1993 WILL BE ISSUED WITH A CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS, BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, WHICH WOULD MAKE THEM ELIGIBLE FOR JOINING THE PILOT SCHEME IN FORM ONE.
IN ADDITION, THEY WILL BE ISSUED WITH AN INFORMATION PACKET CONTAINING AN INFORMATION PAMPHLET ON THE PROGRAMME, A LIST OF LOCAL PARTICIPATING DENTISTS, AND AN APPLICATION FORM TO BRING BACK TO THEIR PARENTS.
PARENTS WHO WISH TO ENROL THEIR CHILDREN IN THE PILOT DENTAL SCHEME CAN CHOOSE A DENTIST FROM THE LIST, FILL IN AN APPLICATION FORM AND RETURN IT TO THE HONG KONG DENTAL ASSOCIATION TOGETHER WITH A CHEQUE OR BANKER’S DRAFT OF $200.
PARTICIPANTS ARE COVERED BY THE PILOT SCHEME UNTIL THE END OF OCTOBER, NEXT YEAR AND IF THE SCHEME CONTINUES BEYOND THE FIRST YEAR, WILL BE INVITED TO RENEW THEIR SUBSCRIPTION FOR ANOTHER YEAR.
THE PILOT SCHEME IS ADMINISTERED AND MONITORED BY A COMMITTEE CONSISTING OF REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE DENTAL ASSOCIATION, THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND OTHER RESPONSIBLE ORGANISATIONS SUPPORTING THE PROGRAMME.
/A TELEPHONE ......
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 199j
9
A TELEPHONE HOTLINE WILL BE SET UP TO ANSWER ENQUIRIES AND DEAL WITH COMPLAINTS.
THE PILOT SCHEME WILL BE REVIEWED AFTER ITS FIRST YEAR.
IF PROVED TO BE SUCCESSFUL, THE MONITORING COMMITTEE WILL RECOMMEND THE INTRODUCTION OF THE YOUTH DENTAL CARE PROGRAMME TO ALL ELIGIBLE FORM ONE STUDENTS IN HONG KONG.
THE EXISTING SCHOOL DENTAL CARE SERVICE FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS HAS BEEN IN OPERATION SINCE 1981 AND HAS SUCCEEDED IN REDUCING DENTAL CARIES AND INCREASING DENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS IN THE PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS, ACCORDING TO DR CHAN.
------0-------
49 NEW BUILDING PLANS APPROVED IN MAY
*****
THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT APPROVED 49 NEW BUILDING PLANS IN MAY THIS YEAR.
OF THEM, 19 WERE FOR HONG KONG, NINE FOR KOWLOON AND 21 FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE APPROVED PLANS INCLUDED 17 FOR APARTMENT, APARTMENT/COMMERC1AL DEVELOPMENTS, 10 FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS AND 10 FOR FACTORY AND INDUSTRIAL PURPOSES.
DURING THE MONTH, THE OFFICE GAVE CONSENT FOR WORK TO START ON 41 PROJECTS, INVOLVING 80,413 SQUARE METRES OF USABLE DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA AND 188,342 SQUARE METRES OF USABLE NON-DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA.
THE TOTAL DECLARED COST OF NEW BUILDINGS COMPLETED WAS ABOUT $3,226 MILLION. USABLE FLOOR AREAS OF THE BUILDINGS FOR DOMESTIC AND NON-DOMESTIC USES WERE ABOUT 110,223 SQUARE METRES AND ABOUT 168,630 SQUARE METRES RESPECTIVELY.
IN THE MONTH, THE OFFICE ISSUED 30 OCCUPATION PERMITS - EIGHT FOR HONG KONG ISLAND, 12 FOR KOWLOON, AND 10 FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES.
IN ADDITION, 34 DEMOLITION CONSENTS INVOLVING 61 BUILDINGS WERE ISSUED.
THE OFFICE’S CONTROL AND ENFORCEMENT DIVISION RECEIVED 738 COMPLAINTS OF UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS, CARRIED OUT 1,620 INSPECTIONS AND ISSUED 357 REMOVAL ORDERS IN RESPECT OF UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS.
THE DANGEROUS BUILDINGS SECTION OF THE OFFICE INSPECTED 893 BUILDINGS AND OBTAINED THREE EMERGENCY CLOSURE ORDERS.
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/10........
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
10
MORE ’93 UNCIRCULATED COIN SETS ON SALE
« * » » »
RESIDENTS NOW HAVE A CHANCE TO MAKE A MEMORABLE PURCHASE, WHETHER FOR HISTORIC INTEREST OR FUTURE VALUE AS A COLLECTOR’S ITEM, WITH THE SALE OF AN ADDITIONAL 5,000 SETS OF THE HONG KONG 1993 BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED COINS FROM TOMORROW (MONDAY).
THESE SETS WERE NEWLY STRUCK BY THE BRITISH ROYAL MINT IN RESPONSE TO THE CONTINUOUS HEAVY DEMAND FROM THE PUBLIC. NO PRODUCTION LIMIT HAS BEEN SET ON THESE COLLECTIONS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY SAID: "EARLIER IN APRIL, A QUANTITY OF 10,000 SETS WAS PUT ON SALE. THEY WERE SOLD WITHIN A VERY SHORT PERIOD."
THE COIN COLLECTIONS CAN BE REGARDED AS PERFECT GIFTS FOR FAMILIES, RELATIVES AND FRIENDS, BOTH LOCAL AND OVERSEAS.
"THE ISSUE OF THE COIN COLLECTIONS IS TO COMMEMORATE THE INTRODUCTION OF NEW DESIGN COINS FEATURING A BAUHINIA FLOWER, WHICH ARE GRADUALLY REPLACING THE TERRITORY’S PRESENT CIRCULATION COINS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
EACH COLLECTION COMPRISES SEVEN COINS RANGING FROM THE 10 CENT COIN TO THE 10 DOLLAR COIN, ALTHOUGH ONLY THE TWO DOLLAR AND FIVE DOLLAR COINS ARE NOW IN CIRCULATION.
"ALL THE COINS ARE DATED 1993, EVEN THOUGH THE 10 DOLLAR AND 10 CENT COINS WILL NOT BE PUT INTO CIRCULATION THIS YEAR. THIS SHOULD ADD SUBSTANTIAL NUMISMATIC VALUE TO THE COIN COLLECTION," HE ADDED.
THE SEVEN COINS IN EACH SET ARE SUPERBLY CRAFTED AND CAREFULLY SELECTED. THEY COME PROTECTED AND SEALED WITHIN A HANDSOME PRESENTATION FOLDER.
THE UNCIRCULATED SETS, PRICED AT $128 EACH, WILL BE ON SALE STARTING TOMORROW AT THE TWO OVERSEAS TRUST BANK BRANCHES AT 160, GLOUCESTER ROAD IN WAN CHAI AND AT 524 NATHAN ROAD IN KOWLOON.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID: "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."
- - 0 - -
/Il
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
- 11 -
ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDS GO ON SHOW AT PRESS CONFERENCE ******
ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDS FROM A SITE IN YUNG LONG, TUEN MUN, WILL BE ON DISPLAY FOR THE MEDIA ON TUESDAY (JULY 20) WHEN THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE (AMO) OF THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH HOLDS A PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE RESCUE EXCAVATION.
THE EXCAVATION UNDERTAKEN IN SIX MONTHS AND WAS ONLY COMPLETED IN MARCH THIS YEAR WAS FULLY FUNDED BY CHINA LIGHT AND POWER CO LTD WHICH PROVIDED CASH DONATION AND OTHER SUPPORTING FACILITIES TOTALLING $1.1 MILLION.
THE EXCAVATION REVEALED TWO UNDISTURBED CULTURAL DEPOSITS. THE EARLIER ONE DATES BACK TO ABOUT 4000 B.C. WHICH IS THE OLDEST ARCHAEOLOGICAL REMAINS IN HONG KONG. THE LATER NEOLITHIC DEPOSIT (ABOUT 2500 BC) IS EXCEPTIONALLY RICH.
THE SITE AT YUNG LONG WAS RATED IN A TERRITORY-WIDE SURVEY AS ONE OF THE FIVE MOST IMPORTANT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES IN HONG KONG.
THE OTHER FOUR BEING LUNG KWU TAN, LUNG KWU SHEUNG TAN, SHAM WAN ON LAMMA ISLAND AND CHEUNG SHA ON LANTAU.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ANTIQUITIES ADVISORY BOARD, MR DAVID LUNG WILL SPEAK AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE.
THE CONFERENCE STARTS AT 3 PM ON TUESDAY (JULY 20) AT THE AMO EXHIBITION HALL AT 136 NATHAN ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI.
YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND.
-----0-------
HUNG HOM STREET AND LANES RECONSTRUCTION
*****
THE GOVERNMENT PORPOSES TO RECONSTRUCT WA FUNG STREET AND THE NEARBY SCAVENGING LANES IN HUNG HOM.
THE PROJECT COMPRISES THE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE EXISTING CARRIAGEWAY, FOOTWAY AND IMPROVEMENT OF THE ASSOCIATED DRAINAGE AND UNDERGROUND SERVICES.
WA FUNG STREET AND THE NEARBY LANES ARE UNDER MULTIPLE-SUBDIVIDED OWNERSHIP AND ARE IN POOR CONDITION, THUS GIVING RISE TO ENVIRONMENTAL AND ACCESS PROBLEMS.
THE RESUMPTION OF THE PRIVATE STREET AND LANES IS NECESSARY TO ENSURE THEIR PROPER MAINTENANCE AND USE.
/THE IMPROVEMENT .......
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
12
THE IMPROVEMENT WORK WILL START IN DECEMBER 1994 AND WILL TAKE ABOUT FIVE MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
A NOTICE CONCERNING THE PROPOSED WORKS WAS PUBLISHED IN THE LATEST GAZETTE.
THE PLAN AND SCHEME SHOWING THE PROPOSED WORKS CAN BE SEEN AT:
* THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
* THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, KOWLOON WEST, YAU MA TEI CAR PARK BUILDING, 10TH FLOOR, 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON; AND
» THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, 141-143 KAU PUI LUNG ROAD, KOWLOON.
ANY PERSON OBJECTING TO THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT MUST SEND HIS OBJECTION IN WRITING TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, NO LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 14, 1993 DESCRIBING HIS INTEREST AND THE MANNER IN WHICH HE ALLEGES HE WILL BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSAL.
------0--------
RECONSTRUCTION OF PART OF BELFRAN ROAD
*****
THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSES TO RESUME AND RECONSTRUCT A PORTION OF BELFRAN ROAD TO ENSURE ITS PROPER MAINTENANCE AND USE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST.
THE PROJECT COMPRISES THE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE EXISTING CARRIAGEWAY, FOOTWAY, RUN-IN AND IMPROVEMENT OF THE ASSOCIATED DRAINAGE/UNDERGROUND SERVICES.
AT PRESENT THE PORTION IS UNDER MULTIPLE-SUBDIVIDED OWNERSHIP AND IS NOT PROPERLY MAINTAINED AND MANAGED.
AS A RESULT, THIS PORTION IS GENERALLY IN POOR CONDITION, THUS GIVING RISE TO ENVIRONMENTAL AND ACCESS PROBLEMS.
THE IMPROVEMENT WORK IS PROGRAMMED TO START IN DECEMBER 1994 AND WILL TAKE ABOUT FIVE MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
A NOTICE CONCERNING THE PROPOSED WORKS WAS PUBLISHED IN THE LATEST GAZETTE.
THE PLAN AND SCHEME SHOWING THE PROPOSED WORKS CAN BE SEEN:
* THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
« THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, KOWLOON WEST, YAU MA TEI CAR PARK BUILDING, 10TH FLOOR, 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON; AND
/♦THE KOWLOON .......
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
» THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, 141-143 KAU PUI LUNG ROAD, KOWLOON.
ANY PERSON OBJECTING TO THE PROPOSED WORKS MUST SEND HIS OBJECTION IN WRITING TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, NO LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 14, 1993 DESCRIBING HIS INTEREST AND THE MANNER IN WHICH HE ALLEGES HE WILL BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSAL.
BUILDING MANAGEMENT COURSE FOR SHAM SHIH PO RESIDENTS ♦ ♦ ♦ » ♦
A BUILDING MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATE COURSE, WHICH COVERS THE MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS SET OUT IN THE NEWLY ENACTED BUILDING MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE, WILL BE ORGANISED FOR SHAM SHUI PO RESIDENTS IN AUGUST.
MEMBERS OF THE OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS, MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES, BUILDING CARETAKERS AND LOCAL RESIDENTS ARE WELCOME TO ENROL ON THE COURSE.
ORGANISED BY THE SHAM SHUI PO PRIVATE BUILDING MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND SPONSORED BY SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD, THE COURSE, WHICH IS FREE OF CHARGE, AIMS TO PROMOTE BETTER BUILDING MANAGEMENT.
IT WILL INCLUDE LECTURES AND CASE STUDIES ON ILLEGAL STRUCTURES, BUILDING MAINTENANCE, FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS IN BUILDING MANAGEMENT AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF PROPERTY MANAGERS.
IT WILL ALSO COVER FIRE PREVENTION, BUILDING SECURITY AND THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF CARETAKERS.
THE COURSE WILL BE CONDUCTED BY REPRESENTATIVES OF VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND RELEVANT PROFESSIONALS.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT OFFICE ON THE SIXTH FLOOR, WEST (’OAST INTERNATIONAL BUILDING, 290-296 UN CHAU STREET.
THE CLOSING DATE FOR ENROLMENT IS JI IO 30 \ND ENQUIRIES (AN BE
MADE ON TEL 720 4251 EXTENSION 47.
--------0------------
/14 ........
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
14
WEATHER OF JUNE
* t *
WITH MOIST SOUTHWEST MONSOON AND THE PRESENCE OF ACTIVE TROUGHS NEAR THE SOUTH CHINA COAST, JUNE WAS CLOUDIER THAN NORMAL AND UNUSUALLY HUMID, ACCORDING TO A MONTHLY REPORT PREPARED BY THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY.
THE MEAN DEW POINT OF 25.2 DEGREES WAS THE SECOND HIGHEST EVER RECORDED IN JUNE.
TORRENTIAL DOWNPOURS ON JUNE 11 AND 16 CAUSED WIDESPREAD FLOODING IN THE URBAN AREAS, NECESSITATING THE ISSUANCE OF RAINSTORM RED WARNINGS ON BOTH OCCASIONS AND ALSO THE RAINSTORM BLACK WARNING IN THE LATTER CASE.
TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING SIGNALS WERE ALSO HOISTED FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR WITH THE APPROACH OF TYPHOON KORYN.
THE NO.8 GALE OR STORM SIGNAL WAS HOISTED ON JUNE 27.
WITH ONLY ONE RAIN-FREE DAY IN THE MONTH, THE MONTHLY TOTAL RAINFALL OF 485.2 MILLIMETRES WAS 29 PER CENT ABOVE THE JUNE NORMAL OF 376.0 MILLIMETRES.
THIS BROUGHT THE TOTAL RAINFALL SINCE JANUARY 1 TO 1,043.4 MILLIMETRES, 5 PER CENT ABOVE THE NORMAL OF 992.5 MILLIMETRES FOR THE SAME PERIOD.
THE WEATHER ON JUNE 1 WAS MAINLY FINE, WITH STRONG AND GUSTY SOUTHWEST MONSOON THAT NECESSITATED THE HOISTING OF THE STRONG MONSOON SIGNAL.
A SOUTHWARD-MOVING TROUGH FROM GUANGDONG BROUGHT CLOUDS AND RAIN THE NEXT DAY.
AS WINDS SHIFTED FROM SOUTHWESTERLY TO SOUTHEASTERLY ON JUNE 3, THUNDERY SHOWERS OCCURRED IN THE EVENING.
RAINY WEATHER CONTINUED INTO JUNE 4 AS TEMPERATURES DROPPED TO THE MONTH’S LOWEST OF 23.6 DEGREES IN EARLY MORNING THUNDERSTORMS. A HILLSIDE RETAINING WALL IN DEEP WATER BAY COLLAPSED IN THE PERSISTENT RAIN THAT DAY.
ANOTHER TROUGH OF LOW PRESSURE FORMED IN GUANGDONG AND MOVED TO THE COAST ON JUNE 5.
FRESH SOUTHWEST MONSOON AND SHOWERY WEATHER LASTED THE WHOLE DAY.
AS THE TROUGH MOVED TO THE NORTHERN PART OF THE SOUTH CHINA SEA ON JUNE 6, SOUTHWESTERLY WINDS SUBSIDED AND THE WEATHER TURNED FINE.
AFTER SOME MORNING SHOWERS ON JUNE 7, THE WEATHER STAYED MAINLY FINE BEFORE TURNING FOR THE WORSE ON JUNE 9.
A LINGERING TROUGH OVER THE SOUTH CHINA COASTAL AREA BROUGHT INCREASING RAIN ON JUNE 9 AND 10.
/THE WEATHER .......
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
THE WEATHER DETERIORATED FURTHER ON JUNE 11 AS EXPLOSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF RAIN CLOUDS OCCURRED IN THE VICINITY OF HONG KONG.
OVER 140 MILLIMETRES OF RAIN WERE RECORDED AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY DURING AN AFTERNOON OF TORRENTIAL RAIN AND SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS.
THE HEAVIEST DOWNPOUR OCCURRED IN SHA TIN WITH OVER 270 MILLIMETRES OF RAINFALL RECORDED. THE DELUGE RESULTED IN 175 CASES OF FLOODS AND 24 LANDSLIPS.
RAIN CEASED ON JUNE 12 GIVING WAY TO A SUNNY AND HOT DAY, THE ONLY DAY IN JUNE WITH NO MEASURABLE RAINFALL. SUNNY PERIODS AND SHOWERS PREVAILED OVER THE NEXT THREE DAYS.
SEVERE WEATHER OCCURRED AGAIN ON JUNE 16. INTENSE CONVECTIVE STORM CELLS DEVELOPED NEAR HONG KONG RESULTING IN THUNDERY AND HEAVY RAIN LASTING FROM MORNING TILL AFTERNOON. THE WORST HIT AREAS WERE SAI KUNG AND TSUEN WAN.
UP TO 280 MILLIMETRES OF RAIN FELL OVER THE TERRITORY BEFORE EASING OFF ON JUNE 17.
THERE WERE 268 CASES OF FLOODING AND OVER 56 CASES OF LANDSLIPS REPORTED OVER THE 2-DAY PERIOD. A WOMAN WAS KILLED AND FIVE OTHERS WERE INJURED IN A MUDSLIP IN TSUEN WAN ON JUNE 16.
ABOUT 67 HECTARES OF FARMLAND AND 14 FISH PONDS WERE DAMAGED IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE WEATHER REMAINED CLOUDY ON JUNE 18 BEFORE BECOMING FINE THE NEXT DAY.
A SPELL OF HOT SUMMER DAYS WITH OCCASIONAL SHOWERS THEN PERSISTED TILL JUNE 26.
THE HOTTEST DAY OF THE MONTH OCCURRED ON JUNE 22 WHEN TEMPERATURES CLIMBED TO A MAXIMUM OF 33 DEGREES.
MEANWHILE, TYPHOON KORYN SWEPT ACROSS THE PHILIPPINES AND MOVED STEADILY INTO THE SOUTH CHINA SEA ON JUNE 26.
LOCAL WEATHER DETERIORATED RAPIDLY THE NEXT DAY AS KORYN CAME CLOSER. WINDY CONDITIONS AFFECTED HONG KONG AS GALE TO STORM FORCE NORTHEASTERLY WINDS VEERED TO SOUTHEASTERLY IN THE EVENING.
KORYN MADE LANDFALL OVER WESTERN GUANGDONG ON THE NIGHT OF JUNE 27 AND DISSIPATED RAPIDLY OVER LAND.
THE WEATHER GRADUALLY IMPROVED OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS AND BECAME MAINLY FINE BY THE END OF THE MONTH.
TYPHOON KORYN WAS THE ONLY TROPICAL CYCLONE OVER THE WESTERN NORTH PACIFIC AND SOUTH CHINA SEA IN THE MONTH OF JUNE.
/DURING THE........
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
16
DURING THE MONTH OF JUNE, 97 AIRCRAFT WERE DIVERTED DUE TO ADVERSE WEATHER. DETAILS ON THE ISSUANCE/HOISTING AND CANCELLATION/LOWERING OF VARIOUS WARNINGS/SIGNALS IN THE MONTH ARE SUMMARISED IN TABLE 1.1. MONTHLY METEOROLOGICAL FIGURES AND DEPARTURES FROM NORMAL FOR JUNE ARE TABULATED IN TABLE 1.2.
TABLE 1.1 WARNINGS AND SIGNALS IN JUNE 1993
WARNINGS / SIGNALS
EFFECTIVE DATE AND TIME
TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING SIGNALS
NAME OF T.C. SIGNAL NO.
KORYN 1 JUN 26, 1510 — JUN 27, 0330
3 JUN 27, 0330 — JUN 27, 1030
8NE JUN 27, 1030 — JUN 27, 1630
8SE JUN 27, 1630 — JUN 27, 2225
3 JUN 27, 2225 - JUN 28, 0415
STRONG MONSOON SIGNALS JUN 1 , 1230 - JUN 2, 0135
RAINSTORM WARNINGS
RED JUN 11, 1525 — JUN 11, 1640
JUN 16, 1 132 - JUN 16, 1218
BLACK JUN 16, 1218 - JUN 16, 1450
FLOOD WARNING JUN 2, 0005 — JUN 2, 0240
JUN 3, 1935 - JUN 3, 2345
JUN 4, 1355 — JUN 4, 1530
JUN 7, 0440 — JUN 7, 0755
JUN 9, 1235 - JUN 9, 1345
JUN 9, 2145 — JUN 9, 2330
JUN 11, 0455 — JUN 11, 1045
JUN 11, 1430 - JUN 11, 1630
JUN 11, 1800 - JUN 11, 2210
JUN 16, 1000 — JUN 16, 1715
JUN 17, 0510 - JUN 17, 0630
LANDSLIP WARNING JUN 11, 1515 — JUN 12, 0815
JUN 16, 1200 — JUN 17, 1150
/TABLE 1.I ..
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
17
TABLE 1.1 WARNINGS AND SIGNALS IN JUNE 1993 (CONTINUED)
THUNDERSTORM WARNINGS JUN 1 , JUN 2, 2230 - 1300 - JUN 2, JUN 2, 0630 1630
JUN 3, 0445 - JUN 3, 0945
JUN 3, 1235 - JUN 3, 1435
JUN 3, 1605 - JUN 4 , 0730
JUN 4, 1145 - JUN 4, 1645
JUN 4 , 2300 - JUN 5, 0700
JUN 5, 0900 - JUN 5, 1220
JUN 5, 1500 - JUN 5, 1900
JUN 6, 0005 - JUN 6, 0705
JUN 7, 0300 - JUN 7, 1000
JUN 7, 1415 - JUN 7, 1615
JUN 7, 2300 - JUN 8, 0730
JUN 8, 2300 - JUN 9, 0700
JUN 9, 0920 - JUN 9, 1700
JUN 9, 1 740 - JUN 10, 0930
JUN 10, 1100 - JUN 10, 1400
JUN 10, 2005 - JUN 10, 2305
JUN 11, 0445 - JUN 11, 1045
JUN 11, 1300 - JUN 12, 0700
JUN 13, 0400 - JUN 13, 1030
JUN 13, 1245 - JUN 13, 1445
JUN 15, 1945 - JUN 15, 2300
JUN 16, 0005 - JUN 16, 2000
JUN 16, 2300 - JUN 17, 0900
JUN 17, 1825 - JUN 17, 2125
JUN 18, 1400 - JUN 18, 1600
JUN 21, 0740 - JUN 21, 0940
JUN 24, 0535 - JUN 24, 0735
JUN 24, 1115- JUN 24, 1315
JUN 24, 2205 - JUN 25, 0630
JUN 26, 0820 - JUN 26, 1020
/TABLE 1.2 ......
SUNDAY, JULY 18, 1993
18
TABLE 1.2 FIGURES AND DEPARTURES FROM NORMAL - JUNE 1993
TOTAL BRIGHT SUNSHINE 139.5 HOURS ; 21.6 HOURS BELOW NORMAL
MEAN DAILY GLOBAL SOLAR RADIATION 12.51 MJ/SQ M ; 4.04 MJ/SQ M BELOW NORMAL
TOTAL RAINFALL 485.2 MM ; 109.2 MM ABOVE NORMAL
MEAN CLOUD AMOUNT 84 % ; 9 % ABOVE NORMAL
MEAN RELATIVE HUMIDITY 84 % ; 2 % ABOVE NORMAL
MEAN DAILY MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE 30.6 DEGREES C ; 0.3 DEGREE C ABOVE NORMAL
MEAN AIR TEMPERATURE 28.3 DEGREES C ; 0.5 DEGREE C ABOVE NORMAL
MEAN DAILY MINIMUM TEMPERATURE 26.2 DEGREES C ; 0.3 DEGREE C ABOVE NORMAL
MEAN DEW POINT 25.2 DEGREES C ; 0.8 DEGREE C ABOVE NORMAL
TOTAL EVAPORATION 97.3 MM ; 46.6 MM BELOW NORMAL
- - 0-----------
Received by PRO on2 1 JUL 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
CONTRACT AWARD FOR WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY - NORTH SECTION .. 1
CITYBUS LAUNCHES 26 ROUTES IN SEPTEMBER ...................... 1
SEVEN CONTEST REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION ................... 2
COMMISSION ON REMUNERATION FOR LEGCO MEMBERS ................. 3
BLITZ ON CAISSON SITE SAFETY ................................. 4
SRC MEETS UNITED DEMOCRATS OVER ARTS POLICY .................. 5
ORDERS-ON-HAND OF MANUFACTURERS TN MAY ....................... 5
PROPER LABELLING OF PRE-PACKAGED FOOD REQUIRED ............... 7
TEXTILES TRADERS URGED TO JOIN REGISTRATION SCHEME ........... 7
PARCEL MAIL TO ISRAEL SUSPENDED .............................. 8
LAST LEGCO MEETING FOR THIS SESSION .......................... 8
FRESH WATER CUT TN TSIM SHA TSUI ............................. 9
FARE RISES FOR THRFF GMB ROUTES .............................. 10
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ......................................... IO
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 11
MONDAY, JULY 19,
1993
CONTRACT AWARD FOR WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY - NORTH SECTION
*****
THE CENTRAL TENDER BOARD HAS ACCEPTED A HK$1,270 MILLION TENDER SUBMITTED BY KUMAGAI-MAEDA-CRABC JOINT VENTURE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY NORTH SECTION.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (MONDAY) THAT THE NORTH SECTION WOULD LINK THE SOUTHERN LIMIT OF THE KWAI CHUNG VIADUCT OF THE ROUTE 3 PROJECT AT MEI FOO TO THE NORTHERN LIMIT OF THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY SOUTH SECTION AT TAI KOK TSUI.
THE MAJOR ITEMS OF WORKS INCLUDE THE BUILDING OF A 2.7-KILOMETRE-LONG DUAL THREE-LANE ELEVATED EXPRESSWAY, A SECTION OF DUAL THREE-LANE GROUND LEVEL ROAD BENEATH AND ALONGSIDE THE EXPRESSWAY, AND ASSOCIATED OVERBRIDGES AND FOOTBRIDGES.
TENDERS WERE RECEIVED FROM SIX PREQUALIFIED TENDERERS AND THE JAPANESE/CHINESE JOINT VENTURE COMPRISING KUMAGAI GUMI (HK) LIMITED, MAEDA CORPORATION AND CHINA ROAD AND BRIDGE CORPORATION SUBMITTED THE LOWEST BID OF HK$l,270 MILLION.
CONSTRUCTION WORK WILL START NEXT MONTH AND IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN THE LATER HALF OF 1996.
THE AWARD OF THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY NORTH SECTION CONTRACT BRINGS THE TOTAL NUMBER OF GOVERNMENT-FUNDED CONTRACTS AWARDED ON THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME (ACP) TO 23 WITH A TOTAL VALUE OF ABOUT $26 BILLION.
TOGETHER WITH THE FOUR CONTRACTS AWARDED BY THE PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY VALUED ABOUT $9.7 BILLION, THE TOTAL VALUE OF CONTRACTS AWARDED ON THE ACP IS ABOUT $35.7 BILLION.
ALL THE CONTRACTS WERE AWARDED WITHIN BUDGET AND ARE SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION ON TIME.
--------0-----------
CITYBUS LAUNCHES 26 ROUTES IN SEPTEMBER ******
CITYBUS WILL START OPERATING 26 ROUTES ON SEPTEMBER 1, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
THE SPOKESMAN SAID OVER THE PAST 10 MONTHS CTTYBUS HAD BEEN ACTIVELY PREPARING FOR THE LAUNCHING OF THE SERVICES.
THEY ARE ROUTES 98, 48, 61, 76, 6, 6A, 72A, 92, 70, 70M, 72, ' 72B, 75, 90, 96, 97 AND 97A IN THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT; ROUTES 1, 5, 5A, 5B, 10X, 12 AND 12M IN WAN CHAI AND CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICTS, AND TWO CROSS HARBOUR ROUTES 107 AND 170.
/PREPARATORY ACTIVITIES
MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
- 2 -
PREPARATORY ACTIVITIES INCLUDE THE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUS DEPOT ON AP LEI CHAU, THE ACQUISITION AND CONSTRUCTION OF 200 BUSES AND THE RECRUITMENT OF STAFF AND DRIVERS.
UNDER THE FRANCHISES GRANTED TO CHINA MOTOR BUS (CMB) AND CITYBUS, THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT CAN DIRECT THE TWO BUS COMPANIES TO SHARE THE USE OF BUS STOPS, TERMINI AND ANCILLARY FACILITIES WITH ANOTHER OPERATOR.
SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THIS YEAR, THE DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN MEETING REPRESENTATIVES FROM CMB AND CITYBUS TO DISCUSS THE HANDOVER ARRANGEMENTS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE ARRANGEMENTS NOW AGREED BETWEEN CMB AND CITYBUS INVOLVES REORGANISING THE USE OF DEPARTURE BAYS AT 26 BUS TERMINI, ERECTING OF ABOUT 300 NEW BUS STOP SIGNS BY CITYBUS AND THE REMOVAL OF CMB SIGNS AND KIOSKS.
TO ENSURE THAT THE TRANSITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS ARE CONDUCTED SMOOTHLY, CHANGES AT BUS TERMINI WILL BE INTRODUCED IN PHASES THROUGHOUT AUGUST.
MOBILISATION OF CITYBUS’ BUSES WILL BEGIN TWO DAYS BEFORE SEPTEMBER 1 AND BE COMPLETED BEFORE 5 AM ON THE DATE SO THAT BUSES ARE READY FOR SERVICE IN THE EARLY MORNING.
THE DEPARTMENT WILL CLOSELY MONITOR THE ACTIVITIES OF CMB AND CTTYBUS DURING THIS PERIOD, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
A CO-ORDINATION CENTRE HEADED BY THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT WILL BE ESTABLISHED TO MONITOR THE POSITIONING OF CITYBUS’ BUSES, HE SAID.
CITYBUS’ PROGRAMME IS CLOSELY MONITORED, HE ADDED.
--------0-----------
SEVEN CONTEST REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION ♦ * * * ♦
SEVEN CANDIDATES WILL STAND IN THE REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN RESPECT OF THE SAI KUNG CONSTITUENCY SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 8.
THE NOMINATION FOR MR WONG WAH-KEUNG WAS RECEIVED TODAY (MONDAY) WHEN THE NOMINATION PERIOD ENDED.
PERSONAL PARTICULARS OF THE CANDIDATES ARE:
NAME AGE OCCUPATION TELEPHONE
MR FRANCIS CHAU YIN- 32 SOCIAL SERVICE 116 3355
MING ADMINISTRATOR CALL 1717
/DR LAW ........
MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
- 3 -
DR LAW CHEUNG-KWOK 44 RESEARCH DIRECTOR AND ECONOMIC ADVISER 577 1572
MR WAI HING-CHEUNG 34 POST-GRADUATE STUDENT 9226 3009
MR CHEUNG HON-TIN 40 BANK MANAGER 763 5308
MR LAM WING-YIN 34 ACCOUNTS OFFICER 704 3792
MR WONG SHUI-SANG 46 MERCHANT 792 7354
MR WONG WAH-KEUNG 41 SENIOR TECHNICAL 702 8118
OFFICER
THE BY-ELECTION LEUNG KAM-HO.
WILL BE HELD TO FILL THE SEAT OF MR GILBERT
--------0-----------
COMMISSION ON REMUNERATION FOR LEGCO MEMBERS * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (MONDAY) THE APPOINTMENT BY THE GOVERNOR OF AN INDEPENDENT COMMISSION TO REVIEW THE SYSTEM OF REMUNERATION FOR MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (LEGCO).
THE COMMISSION INCLUDES FORMER EXCO AND LEGCO MEMBERS AS WELL AS DISTINGUISHED PERSONS FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR.
ITS CHAIRMAN IS PROFESSOR WANG GUNGWU (VICE-CHANCELLOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG).
THE FOUR MEMBERS ARE MESSRS CHENG HON-KWAN (CONSULTING ENGINEER), ANDREW SO KWOK-WING (VICE-PRESIDENT OF AN INSURANCE COMPANY), CHRISTOPHER CHENG WAI-CHEE (MANAGING DIRECTOR OF A GARMENT COMPANY) AND THOMAS LEUNG KWOK-FAI (EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF A MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY FIRM).
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE COMMISSION WERE TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNOR ON A REMUNERATION SYSTEM THAT WOULD ENABLE LEGCO MEMBERS TO DISCHARGE THEIR FUNCTIONS EFFICIENTLY.
HE SAID THE COMMISSION WOULD ALSO ADVISE THE GOVERNOR ON THE APPROPRIATENESS OF THE CURRENT REMUNERATION PACKAGE WHICH WAS APPROVED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE ON MAY 7, 1993.
"NO TIMETABLE HAS BEEN SET FOR THE COMMISSION TO COMPLETE ITS REVIEW. HOWEVER, GIVEN THE PUBLIC INTEREST IN THIS MATTER, THE COMMISSION WILL ENDEAVOUR TO COMPLETE THE REVIEW AS SOON AS PRACTICAL," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
- - 0----------
/4 ........
MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
4
BLITZ ON CAISSON SITE SAFETY * * * * *
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL LAUNCH A TWO-WEEK BLITZ BETWEEN TODAY (MONDAY) AND JULY 30 TO IMPROVE THE SAFETY OF CAISSON SITES AND TO SPREAD THE SAFETY MESSAGE TO CAISSON WORKERS.
DURING THE PERIOD, FACTORY INSPECTORS WILL INSPECT ALL CAISSON SITES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.
"WE WILL CONCENTRATE ON HAZARDOUS AREAS WHERE FATALITIES AND SERIOUS ACCIDENTS MIGHT HAPPEN," SAID DEPUTY CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR MR KAN HON-SANG OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
THESE INCLUDED TOXIC GAS, INADEQUATE VENTILATION, LACK OF SAFE MEANS OF ACCESS TO AND EGRESS FROM THE CAISSON, FALL OF PERSONS, FALLING OBJECTS, AND SO ON.
MR KAN POINTED OUT THAT CONTRACTORS HAD THE OBLIGATION TO TEST EVERY CAISSON WITH SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENT FOR DANGEROUS FUMES AND OXYGEN DEFICIENCY BEFORE ENTRY BY WORKERS TO ENSURE SAFETY.
"IN ADDITION, CONTRACTORS HAVE TO MAINTAIN SUCH TEST RECORDS FOR INSPECTION BY FACTORY INSPECTORS," SAID MR KAN.
NOTING THAT WORKERS WORKING INSIDE CAISSONS CAN BE SUBJECT TO POOR WORKING ENVIRONMENT, MR KAN SAID THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WAS DETERMINED TO INCREASE PRESSURE ON THE CONTRACTORS TO IMPROVE WORKING CONDITIONS FOR CAISSON OPERATIONS.
"WE TOOK A SERIOUS VIEW OF THE MATTER AND ANYONE FOUND NOT OBSERVING THE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS WILL BE PROSECUTED," HE ADDED.
EMPLOYERS WHO FAILED TO COMPLY WITH A SPECIAL PRECAUTION NOTICE UNDER THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ORDINANCE ARE LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $30,000 AND SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT.
"FACTORY INPSECTORS ARE ALWAYS READY TO GIVE ADVICE ON SAFETY IN CAISSON WORKS," MR KAN POINTED OUT, ADDING THAT ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE TO THE LABOUT DEPARTMENT’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE ON TEL 852 3555 OR 815 0678.
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MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
SRC MEETS UNITED DEMOCRATS OVER ARTS POLICY
*****
THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, TODAY (MONDAY) SAID CONSIDERATION WAS BEING GIVEN TO THE POSSIBILITY OF SETTING UP AN ARTS COUNCIL WITH STATUTORY POWERS MODELLED ON THE PRESENT SPORTS DEVELOPMENT BOARD WITH THE SPECIFIC AIM OF PROMOTING AND DEVELOPING ARTS IN HONG KONG.
IF THE PROPOSAL WAS ACCEPTED, A PROVISIONAL BODY WOULD HAVE TO BE SET UP TO PREPARE FOR THE SUBSEQUENT STATUTORY COUNCIL, MR SO ADDED.
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF SUCH A COUNCIL WAS ONE OF THE MOST FREQUENT SUGGESTIONS MADE BY THE ARTS COMMUNITY AND THE PUBLIC AFTER THE RELEASE OF THE ARTS POLICY REVIEW REPORT TN MARCH. THE CONSULTATION PERIOD ENDED LAST MONTH.
MR SO TODAY MET REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED DEMOCRATS OF HONG KONG WHO ARE ALSO MEMBERS OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS. THE GROUP WAS LED BY MR ALBERT CHAN WAI-YIP.
MR SO ENVISAGED THAT THE ARTS COUNCIL WOULD COMPRISE REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE ARTS COMMUNITY AS WELL AS THOSE OF THE TWO MUNICIPAL COUNCILS TO ACHIEVE BETTER CO-ORDINATION AND CO-OPERATION. THE TWO COUNCILS WOULD STILL MAINTAIN THEIR AUTONOMY IN THIS RESPECT.
ON A PROPOSAL TO TRANSFER ACTIVITIES OF THE MUSIC OFFICE TO THE NON-GOVERNMENT SECTOR, MR SO SAID THESE ACTIVITIES MIGHT BE TAKEN OVER BY THE TWO MUNICIPAL COUNCILS WHO HAD EXPRESSED SOME INTEREST IN THIS.
HE NOTED THAT ANY ORGANISATION FINALLY CHOSEN TO TAKE OVER THESE ACTIVITIES WOULD NEED TO CARRY ON WITH THE PRESENT SCOPE OF ACTIVITIES AND MAINTAIN THEIR STANDARDS.
MR SO SAID HE WELCOMED THE JOINT EFFORTS BY THE TWO COUNCILS TO PROMOTE ARTS.
- - 0 - -
ORDERS-ON-HAND OF MANUFACTURERS IN MAY
******
THE VOLUME OF ORDERS-ON-HAND FOR THE 200 LARGEST MANUFACTURERS SHOWED LITTLE CHANGE IN MAY OVER A YEAR EARLIER, ACCORDING TO A MONTHLY SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE VOLUME OF ORDERS-ON-HAND IS MEASURED IN TERMS OF THE NUMBER OF MONTHS THAT MANUFACTURERS WILL REQUIRE TO COMPLETE THE ORDERS OUTSTANDING AS AT THE END OF THE REFERENCE MONTH.
COMPARED WITH THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR, ORDERS POSITION IN THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS AND THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES BOTH INCREASED MODERATELY BY 5%.
/ON THE
MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
- 6 -
ON THE OTHER HAND, DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE TEXTILES INDUSTRY (6%), THE WEARING APPAREL INDUSTRY (3%) AND THE FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRY (1%).
COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING MONTH, ORDERS FOR ALL THE MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED DECREASED SLIGHTLY BY 1%.
ORDERS POSITION IN THE TEXTILES INDUSTRY DECREASED MODERATELY BY 6% OVER THE PRECEDING MONTH. DECREASES WERE ALSO RECORDED IN THE WEARING APPAREL AND THE FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES, BY 3% AND 1% RESPECTIVELY.
MEANWHILE, THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRY REPORTED LITTLE CHANGE WHILE ON THE OTHER HAND, THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRY RECORDED A MODERATE INCREASE OF 5%.
THE MONTHLY SURVEY COVERS A PANEL OF THE 200 LARGEST MANUFACTURERS CHOSEN BY REFERENCE TO THEIR EMPLOYMENT SIZES IN SEPTEMBER 1986.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT THAT AS THE SURVEY SAMPLE COVERED ONLY THE LARGE COMPANIES, THE RESULTS MIGHT NOT BE FULLY REPRESENTATIVE OF THE GENERAL SITUATION OF THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR.
’’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 IN THE SECTOR,” HE SAID.
THE SURVEY REPORT FOR MAY AT $5.50 A COPY IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AND AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS SECT TON, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI .
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE RESULTS MAY BE MADE OF THE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 805 6441.
THE FOLLOWING TABLE SHOWS THE PERCENTAGE CHANGES IN ORDERS-ON-HAND:
AS AT THE END OF CHANGE WHEN COMPARED WITH
INDUSTRY MAY 1993 APRIL 1993 MAY 1992
(MONTHS) (%) (%)
ALL MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED 4.49 -1 t
WEARING APPAREL 4.73 -3 -3
TEXTILES 2.25 -6 -6
PLASTIC PRODUCTS 4.14 + 5 + 5
FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS 4.37 -1 -1
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC 5.84 * + 5
PRODUCTS
OTHERS 3.84 -1 -3
» CHANGES WITHIN +/-0.5%
- - 0----------
MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
PROPER LABELLING OF PRE-PACKAGED FOOD REQUIRED
*****
FOOD WHOLESALERS AND RETAILERS MUST PROPERLY LABEL OR MARK PREPACKAGED FOOD ITEMS, WHETHER COMPLETELY OR PARTIALLY PACKED, AS STIPULATED BY THE THIRD SCHEDULE OF THE FOOD AND DRUGS (COMPOSITION AND LABELLING) REGULATIONS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SAID TODAY (MONDAY) THAT OFFENDERS WERE SUBJECT TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $25,000 AND IMPRISONMENT FOR SIX MONTHS UPON CONVICTION.
THE REMINDER WAS ISSUED FOLLOWING TWO RECENT COURT CASES IN WESTERN MAGISTRACY TN WHICH TWO FOOD SHOP OPERATORS IN SHEUNG WAN WERE FINED A TOTAL OF $1,000 AFTER THEY PLEADED GUILTY OF SELLING IMPROPERLY LABELLED PREPACKAGED SWEETENED LOTUS SEED.
THE COURT WAS TOLD THAT THE FOOD WAS NOT MARKED OR LABELLED WITH THE NAME OR DESIGNATION OF THE FOOD, THE LIST OF INGREDIENTS, AN INDICATION OF ITS MINIMUM DURABILITY, NAME AND DDRESS OF THE MANUFACTURER AND THE NUMERICAL COUNT OF THE CONTENTS OR THE NET WEIGHT OF THE FOOD AS REQUIRED BY THE REGULATIONS.
- - 0 - -
TEXTILES TRADERS URGED TO JOIN REGISTRATION SCHEME
*****
A TRADE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (MONDAY) REMINDED TEXTILES TRADERS THAT CERTAIN INSTANT LICENSING SERVICES WOULD CEASE IN TWO WEEKS’ TIME AND URGED THEM TO REGISTER UNDER THE TEXTILES TRADER REGISTRATION SCHEME (TTRS).
INSTANT SERVICES DUE TO STOP ON AUGUST 2 ARE THE ISSUANCE OF ALL TEXTILES IMPORT LICENCES, ALL TEXTILES RE-EXPORT LICENCES AND TEXTILES EXPORT LICENCES TO NON-RESTRAI NED MARKETS.
FROM THAT DATE, APPROVED LICENCES FOR THE GOODS WILL BE ISSUED TWO CLEAR WORKING DAYS AFTER THE SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS.
’’THE TTRS, WHICH IS DESIGNED TO FACILITATE THE TEXTILE TRADE, EXEMPTS TRADERS FROM APPLYING FOR LICENCES IN RESPECT OF ALL TEXTILES IMPORTS, ALL TEXTILES RE-EXPORTS AND TEXTILES EXPORT TO NON-RESTRAINED MARKETS.
’’ONCE REGISTERED WITH SCHEME, TRADERS ARE ONLY REQUIRED TO SUBMIT, IN LIEU OF A LICENCE, A NOTIFICATION CONTAINING DETAILS OF THE GOODS IN RESPECT OF EACH CONSIGNMENT,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
SO FAR, MORE THAN 14,000 TRADERS HAVE REGISTERED UNDER THE TTRS, HE SAID.
/THE REGISTRATION
MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
- 8 -
THE REGISTRATION IS VALID FOR 12 MONTHS AND SUBJECT TO ANNUAL RENEWAL. THE CURRENT ANNUAL REGISTRATION FEE IS $2,000.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION FROM THE TRADE DEPARTMENT ENQUIRY COUNTER, GROUND FLOOR, TRADE DEPARTMENT TOWER, 700 NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON. FURTHER INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON TEL 398 5473.
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PARCEL MAIL TO ISRAEL SUSPENDED *****
SMALL PACKETS, PARCELS, AND SPEEDPOST ITEMS THAT ARE SUBJECT TO CUSTOMS PROCEDURES, NOTABLY THOSE CONTAINING SAMPLES AND MERCHANDISE, ARE NOT ACCEPTED FOR SENDING TO ISRAEL WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT.
THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, MR M PAGLIARI, EXPLAINED THAT THIS WAS DUE TO INDUSTRIAL ACTION BY CUSTOMS OFFICIALS IN THE COUNTRY.
HOWEVER, LETTERS, PRINTED PAPER AND SPEEDPOST ITEMS CONTAINING DOCUMENTS FOR ISRAEL ARE ACCEPTED AS USUAL, HE SAID.
A FURTHER ANNOUNCEMENT WILL BE MADE WHEN THE ITEMS BECOME ACCEPTABLE AGAIN.
------0-------
LAST LEGCO MEETING FOR THIS SESSION
*****
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL DEBATE A MOTION ON THE LEGAL AID SERVICE AT ITS LAST MEETING FOR THIS SESSION ON WEDNESDAY (JULY 21).
THE MOTION IS PROPOSED BY THE HON SIMON IP.
THE HON RONALD ARCULLI WILL MOVE A MOTION TO AMEND THE DECLARATION OF NUMBER OF PROPOSED DISTRICTS AND SPECIFICATION OF DISTRICT NAMES ORDER 1993.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY WILL MAKE A STATEMENT ON NATIONALITY ISSUES CONCERNING HONG KONG.
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER WILL MOVE TWO MOTIONS, ONE UNDER THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ORDINANCE AND THE OTHER UNDER THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) ORDINANCE.
THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT WILL MOVE A MOTION UNDER THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL ORDINANCE WHILE THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY WILL MOVE ANOTHER MOTION UNDER THE IMPORT AND EXPORT ORDINANCE.
/THE SECRETARY .......
MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
- 9 -
THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS WILL ALSO MOVE A MOTION UNDER THE INTERPRETATION AND GENERAL CLAUSES ORDINANCE.
MEMBERS WILL ASK 20 QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER 11 BILLS.
OF THEM, THREE BILLS WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS. THEY ARE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993, FOREIGN CORPORATIONS BILL AND IMMIGRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993.
DEBATES ON THE OTHER EIGHT BILLS WILL BE RESUMED. THEY ARE DUE TO GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE GIVEN A THIRD READING.
THEY ARE: EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING BILL; HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; BUILDINGS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; SHIPPING AND PORT CONTROL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; DUTIABLE COMMODITIES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1992; INLAND REVENUE (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) BILL 1993 AND EXCHANGES (SPECIAL LEVY) (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993.
IN ADDITION, A TOTAL OF 11 SESSIONAL PAPERS WILL BE TABLED AT THE MEETING.
OF THEM, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY WILL PRESENT THE PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1992/93.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY WILL PRESENT THE FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OBSERVE THE PROCEEDINGS FROM THE PUBLIC GALLERY. THEY MAY RESERVE SEATS BY CALLING 869 9492.
--------0-----------
FRESH WATER CUT IN TSIM SHA TSUI
*****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN TSIM SHA TSUI WILL GO OFF FROM 11 PM ON WEDNESDAY (JULY 21) TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE PREMISES AT NATHAN ROAD, CARNARVON ROAD, HUMPHREYS AVENUE, PRAT AVENUE, SALISBURY ROAD AND THE SEAFRONT.
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/10........
MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
10
FARE RISES FOR THREE GMB ROUTES *****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM WEDNESDAY (JULY 21), THE FARES OF GREEN MINIBUS ROUTES 23, 23B AND 24M WILL BE
INCREASED BY 20 CENTS.
THE FARE REVISION IS TO IMPROVE THEIR FINANCIAL VIABILITY.
THE NEW FARES ARE: NEW FARE EXISTING FARE
ROUTE
23 KWUN TONG (WAN HONG STREET) TO CHA KWO LING $2.20 $2
23B YAN 01 COURT TO CHA KWO LING $2.20 (FULL FARE) $2
BETWEEN YAN 01 COURT AND LAM TIN MTR, OR BETWEEN LAM TIN MTR AND CHA KWO LING $1.50 (SECTION FARE) $1.30
24M LAM TIN (SOUTH) TO SAM KA TSUEN FERRY PIER $2.20 $2
0
WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * * *
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 73.6 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 431.367 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 492.771 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 84.1 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
/Il .......
------0----------
MONDAY, JULY 19, 1993
- 11 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,359
REVERSAL OF LAF +1,441
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,800
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -602
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,198
LAF RATE 2.00 RTD/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.6 *-0.1* 19.7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.37 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.62 3.82
1 MONTH 2.67 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.85 4.00
3 MONTHS 3.13 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.95 4 . 16
6 MONTHS 3.40 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.96 4.39
12 MONTHS 3.70 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 14,415 MN
CLOSED 19 JULY 1993
Received by PRO on 2 2 JUL 1993—
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY JULY 20, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO,
PRIVY COUNCIL MAKES BRITISH NATIONALITY ORDER ................ ]
REVIEW OF GOVERNOR'S TAX POSITION ............................ ]
UK ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR GARRISON ..................... 3
ORDER MADE FOR PHASED ISSUE OF BNO PASSPORTS ................. 3
GOVERNOR TO VISIT LONDON ................................. 4
GOVT IS FIRM ON GUESTHOUSE CONTROL ....................... 4
HEALTH CARE PROPOSALS FURTHER EXPLAINED ...................... 5
CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM OVER SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDED URUGUAY ROUND . 7
CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT STATISTICS FOR 1ST QUARTER OF I 99 3 8
TRADE IN SERVICES REFLECTS GROWTH OF HONG KONG ............... 10
RESCUE PROJECTS UNEARTH VALUABLE ARTEFACTS ................... 12
3,200 OFFERED BETTER HOMFS LAST YFAR ......................... 14
LUNAR NEW YFAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY APPROVED .................... 14
IMPROVED EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS FOR PRE-1981 PNEUMOCONIOTICS .... 15
CONSULTATION ON LEGAL ATD REVIEW TN PROGRESS ................. 16
FIRMS FINED FOR BREAKING POLLUTION LAW ....................... 17
NEW ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT OFFICE SETS UP ................ 24
CLOSURE OF NORTH POINT ILLEGAL STRUCTURES SOUGHT ............. 24
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS ............ 25
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 26
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
PRIVY COUNCIL MAKES BRITISH NATIONALITY ORDER *****
THE BRITISH NATIONALITY (HONG KONG) (SELECTION SCHEME) (AMENDMENT) ORDER 1993, WHICH PROVIDES FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FINAL PHASE OF THE BRITISH NATIONALITY SELECTION SCHEME, WAS MADE BY THE PRIVY COUNCIL TODAY (TUESDAY).
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID HE WELCOMED THE PASSAGE OF THE ORDER.
’’APPLICATIONS FOR THE FINAL PHASE OF THE SCHEME WILL BE INVITED EARLY NEXT YEAR. FURTHER DETAILS, SUCH AS APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND THE REVISED POINTS SYSTEM, WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER,” HE SAID.
UNDER THE SCHEME INTRODUCED IN DECEMBER 1990, UP TO 50,000 HONG KONG RESIDENTS AND THEIR DEPENDANTS MAY BE REGISTERED AS BRITISH CITIZENS WITHOUT HAVING TO LEAVE THE TERRITORY.
ABOUT 12,000 PLACES REMAINING UNUSED AT THE END OF THE FIRST PHASE WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR ALLOCATION IN THE FINAL PHASE.
---------0-----------
REVIEW OF GOVERNOR’S TAX POSITION
*****
THE INDEPENDENT PANEL APPOINTED BY THE ADMINISTRATION TO REVIEW THE GOVERNOR’S EXEMPTION FROM SALARIES TAX ON HIS OFFICIAL INCOME HAS RECOMMENDED THAT THERE BE NO CHANGE.
THE FULL REPORT OF THE PANEL’S FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS WILL BE PUBLISHED TODAY (TUESDAY).
THE PANEL WERE ASKED TO EXAMINE THE GOVERNOR’S TAX POSITION UNDER THE LAWS OF HONG KONG, THE GOVERNOR’S CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT AND THE REPORT OF THE ROYAL TRUSTEES AND THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ON ROYAL TAXATION.
THE PANEL’S MAIN CONCLUSIONS ARE:
* THE GOVERNOR’S TAX POSITION UNDER HONG KONG LAWS IS VERY CLEAR. HIS OFFICIAL EMOLUMENTS ARE STATUTORILY EXEMPTED FROM PAYMENT OF SALARIES TAX.
♦ THE GOVERNOR’S LETTER OF APPOINTMENT IS A BINDING DOCUMENT AND THE LEGAL OBLIGATIONS CONTAINED THEREIN SHOULD BE UPHELD.
* IT WOULD NOT BE VERY MEANINGFUL TO DRAW ANY ANALOGY BETWEEN THE TAX POSITION OF THE QUEEN AND THE GOVERNOR SINCE THEIR TAX POSITIONS ARE DIFFERENT.
/"SINCE THE .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
2
"SINCE THE GOVERNOR’S LETTER OF APPOINTMENT CLEARLY STATES THAT HIS REMUNERATION IS TAX FREE, IT WOULD ONLY BE FAIR AND REASONABLE THAT THIS REMAINS TO BE SO UNTIL HIS APPOINTMENT TERMINATES," THE REPORT SAYS.
"WE FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT THE LEGAL OBLIGATIONS CONTAINED IN A CONTRACT MUST STAND. THIS BASIC UNDERSTANDING UNDERLIES ALL CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENTS AND THE PRINCIPLE MUST BE UPHELD."
THE PANEL CONSIDERED A COMPARISON OF THE QUEEN’S TAX POSITION IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND THAT OF THE GOVERNOR. THEY FOUND THAT THE TAX POSITION OF THE GOVERNOR IS VERY DIFFERENT FROM THAT OF THE QUEEN AND CONCLUDED THAT IT IS NOT MEANINGFUL TO DRAW ANALOGY BETWEEN THE TWO.
"WHILE THE QUEEN WAS NOT LIABLE TO PAY ANY INCOME, CAPITAL GAINS OR INHERITANCE TAX IN THE PAST, THE GOVERNOR HAS ALWAYS BEEN SUBJECT TO ALL FORMS OF TAXATION EXCEPT FOR EXCISE DUTY AND SALARIES TAX ON HIS OFFICIAL EMOLUMENTS AD GOVERNOR OF HONG KONG."
"THE ELEMENT THAT THE GOVERNOR’S SALARY WILL BE TAX FREE IS CLEARLY SET OUT IN HIS LETTER OF APPOINTMENT. SUCH A CONTRACTUAL CONDITION IS ABSENT IN THE CASE OF THE QUEEN."
THE PANEL HAS ALSO CONSIDERED THE SUGGESTION THAT THE GOVERNOR SHOULD NONETHELESS PAY SALARIES TAX WITHOUT ANY COMPENSATION AND HAS CONCLUDED:
"THIS WOULD MEAN A REDUCTION IN HIS REMUNERATION PACKAGE. WE DO NOT CONSIDER THIS SUGGESTION FAIR GIVEN THAT THE GOVERNOR HAS ACCEPTED HIS APPOINTMENT ON THE TERMS OFFERED TO HIM."
NOR DOES THE PANEL SUPPORT THE SUGGESTION THAT THE GOVERNOR SHOULD PAY SALARIES TAX BUT BE COMPENSATED BY A PAY RISE TO RESTORE HIS NET INCOME:
"THIS WOULD BE AN ARTIFICIAL MEANS TO ACHIEVE THE SAME REMUNERATION PACKAGE WHICH WOULD NOT IN EFFECT RESULT IN ANY MATERIAL DIFFERENCE."
"HAVING REGARD TO THE GOVERNOR’S STATUTORY EXEMPTION FROM PAYMENT OF SALARIES TAX, THE LEGALITY OF HIS LETTER OF APPOINTMENT, AND THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE TAX POSITIONS OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE QUEEN, WE BELIEVE THAT THE ONLY LOGICAL SOLUTION IS TO MAINTAIN THE STATUS QUO," THE REPORT SAYS.
THE INDEPENDENT PANEL WAS APPOINTED BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY IN MAY TO ADVISE ON WHETHER THE GOVERNOR SHOULD BE LIABLE TO PAY SALARIES TAX TN HONG KONG.
THE PANEL COMPRISED: SIR SIDNEY GORDON, SIR Q W LEE AND MR ANDREW SO. ALL HAVE HAD DIRECT EXPERIENCE OF DEALING WITH THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE TN THE PUBLIC SECTOR.
ON THE ADVICE OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, THE ADMINISTRATION HAS ACCEPTED THE PANEL’S RECOMMENDATION.
THE GOVERNOR HAS TAKEN NO PART IN THE REVIEW AND WAS NOT PRESENT DURING EXCO’S CONSTDERATION OF THE PANEL’S RECOMMENDATIONS.
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 3 -
UK ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR GARRISON
*****
THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE TODAY (TUESDAY) ANNOUNCED PLANS FOR THE DEPLOYMENT OF BRITISH FORCES IN HONG KONG BETWEEN NOW AND 1997.
THE PLANS ARE A RESULT OF A CAREFUL REVIEW OF HONG KONG’S NEEDS AND THE CAPABILITIES OF LOCAL FORCES, WHICH HAVE BEEN EXPANDED IN RECENT YEARS.
UNITS OF ALL THREE SERVICES - THE ARMY, THE ROYAL NAVY AND THE ROYAL AIR FORCE - WILL REMAIN IN HONG KONG UNTIL JUNE 1997.
HOWEVER, THE GARRISON WILL CONTINUE TO REDUCE IN STAGES OVER THE PERIOD, AS LOCAL FORCES ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR ITS FORMER OPERATIONAL TASKS.
IN THE LATTER PART OF 1994, THE 1ST BATTALION THE BLACK WATCH WILL RETURN TO THE UK AND THE TWO GURKHA BATTALIONS WILL MERGE TO FORM THE 1ST BATTALION THE ROYAL GURKHA RIFLES. ONE BATTALION WILL REMAIN IN HONG KONG UNTIL JUNE 1997.
THE STRENGTH OF LOGISTIC AND OTHER SUPPORTING UNITS WILL BE REDUCED IN LINE WITH THAT OF FRONT-LINE UNITS.
THE THREE ROYAL NAVY PATROL CRAFT PRESENTLY IN HONG KONG WILL REMAIN UNTIL JUNE 1997.
ROYAL AIR FORCE HELICOPTERS WILL ALSO REMAIN IN HONG KONG UNTIL 1997, ALTHOUGH THEIR NUMBERS MAY BE REDUCED.
THE PLANS MEAN THAT FOR THE FINAL TWO YEARS OF BRITISH SOVEREIGNTY, THE GARRISON WILL BE ABOUT 3,000 STRONG.
IT WILL COMPRISE A HEADQUARTERS, AN INFANTRY BATTALION GROUP, LOGISTIC SUPPORT, NAVAL PATROL CRAFT AND ROYAL AIR FORCE HELICOPTERS.
--------0-----------
ORDER MADE FOR PHASED ISSUE OF BNO PASSPORTS *****
THE HONG KONG (BRITISH NATIONALITY) (AMENDMENT) ORDER 1993, WHICH PROVIDES FOR THE PHASED ISSUE OF BRITISH NATIONAL (OVERSEAS) (BNO) PASSPORTS, WAS MADE BY THE PRIVY COUNCIL TODAY (TUESDAY).
IN ORDER TO ENSURE ALL HONG KONG BRITISH DEPENDANT TERRITORIES CITIZENS WHO WISH TO CONTINUE TO TRAVEL ON BRITISH PASSPORTS BEYOND 1997 WILL RECEIVE BNO PASSPORTS BEFORE JULY 1, 1997, THE ORDER IMPOSES LEGAL CUT-OFF DATES FOR BNO PASSPORT APPLICATIONS BY AGE GROUPS.
DETAILS OF THE ORDER AND THE BNO PHASED REGISTRATION PROGRAMME WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN A PRESS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD BY THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT ON THURSDAY (JULY 22).
- - 0 - -
/4 ........
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
4 GOVERNOR TO VISIT LONDON *****
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, WILL TRAVEL TO LONDON ON JULY 27.
MR PATTEN WILL HAVE MEETINGS WITH MINISTERS AND WITH FOREIGN OFFICE OFFICIALS.
ON JULY 29 HE WILL MEET THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS, MR DOUGLAS HURD.
HE WILL AFTERWARDS START HIS ANNUAL LEAVE AND WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON AUGUST 31.
---------0-----------
GOVT IS FIRM ON GUESTHOUSE CONTROL ******
THE GOVERNMENT IS DETERMINED TO HAVE THE LICENSING CONTROL OF TOURIST GUESTHOUSES IN PLACE BY SEPTEMBER 1 THIS YEAR AS SAFETY OF LODGERS CANNOT BE COMPROMISED, PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR FRANCIS LO, SAID THIS (TUESDAY) MORNING.
AT A MEETING WI TH LEGISLATORS, MR LO SAID OPERATORS HAI) ALREADY BEEN GIVEN A TWO-YEAR EXEMPTION AND 12 MONTHS’ NOTIFICATION OF THE NECESSARY IMPROVEMENT WORKS FOR THEIR PREMISES.
"AS THE REQUIRED WORKS USUALLY TAKE NO MORE THAN A COUPLE OF MONTHS TO COMPLETE, WE CANNOT AGREE WITH SOME OPERATORS THAT THERE IS INSUFFICIENT TIME FOR THEM TO CARRY OUT THE IMPROVEMENT WORKS,” HE SAID.
THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO QUESTION OF THE LICENSING AUTHORITY (LA) OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION ISSUING DIFFERENT GUIDELINES AT DIFFERENT TIMES, HE STRESSED.
THE ONE AND ONLY ONE SET OF SPECIFIC CONDITIONS, WHICH DETAILED THE NECESSARY IMPROVEMENTS FOR A PARTICULAR GUESTHOUSE, WAS CONTAINED IN THE LA’S LETTERS TO INDIVIDUAL OPERATORS IN AUGUST LAST YEAR.
AS TO THE BRIEF NOTES ON LICENSING REQUIREMENTS ISSUED IN JUNE 1991, WHICH SOME OPERATORS CITED AS "ANOTHER SET OF LICENSING STANDARDS”, MR LO SAID THIS SERVED TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY.
THE OPENING PARAGRAPH OF THE BRIEF NOTES, HE POINTED OUT, EXPLICITLY STATED THAT SUCH NOTES ’’SHOULD NOT FORM THE BASIS FOR ANY ALTERATION WORKS; PROPOSED WORK TO REFURBISH OR UPGRADE AN EXISTING HOTEL/GUESTHOUSE SHOULD BE DISCUSSED WITH THE LICENSING AUTHORITY PRIOR TO IMPLEMENTATION.”
/ON THE .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 5 -
ON THE LICENSING OF HOTELS, MR LO STRESSED THAT LIKE TOURIST GUESTHOUSES, HOTELS WERE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN A LICENCE BY SEPTEMBER 1 TO ENABLE THEM TO CONTINUE THEIR BUSINESS.
HE ADDED THAT HOTELS WERE SUBJECT TO THE SAME FIRE AND BUILDING SAFETY CRITERIA UNDER THE LAW.
FURTHERMORE, HE SAID MOST OF THE HOTELS WERE PURPOSE-BUILT WITH THEIR FIRE AND BUILDING SAFETY STANDARDS IN LINE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE AUTHORITIES AT THE TIME OF CONSTRUCTION.
THIS, HOWEVER, WAS NOT THE CASE FOR TOURIST GUESTHOUSES, HE SAID.
STRESSING THAT SAFETY OF LODGERS SHOULD BE THE MOST IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION IN THE LICENSING CONTROLS ON TOURIST GUESTHOUSES, MR LO SAID ANY TRAGEDIES IN THESE PREMISES WOULD TARNISH THE TERRITORY’S IMAGE AS A TOURIST CENTRE.
HE REMINDED THE GUESTHOUSE OPERATORS OF THE URGENCY TO HAVE THE NECESSARY IMPROVEMENT WORKS COMPLETED BY THE END OF AUGUST AS THE EXEMPTION PERIOD WOULD EXPIRE BY THEN.
THOSE ADOPTING A "WAIT-AND-SEE" ATTITUDE SHOULD NOTE THAT THEY HAVE ONLY ABOUT SIX WEEKS TO COMPLY WITH THE LICENSING CONDITIONS, HE ADDED.
UNDER THE HOTEL AND GUESTHOUSE ACCOMMODATION ORDINANCE ENACTED IN 1991, ANYONE WHO OPERATES A GUESTHOUSE WITHOUT A VALID CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION OR A LICENCE COMMITS AN OFFENCE.
THE OFFENDERS ARE LIABLE ON CONVICTION TO A FINE OF $200,000 AND TO IMPRISONMENT FOR TWO YEARS, AND TO A FURTHER FINE OF $20,000 FOR EACH DAY DURING WHICH THE OFFENCE CONTINUES.
"OPERATORS WHO ENCOUNTER DIFFICULTIES IN CARRYING OUT THE NECESSARY IMPROVEMENTS ARE WELCOME TO CONTACT THE OFFICE OF LICENSING AUTHORITY WHOSE STAFF WILL BE PLEASED TO ADVISE," HE SAID.
------0-------
HEALTH CARE PROPOSALS FURTHER EXPLAINED ******
THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, HAS REITERATED THAT THE OBJECTIVES OF THE RECENTLY PUBLISHED CONSULTATION DOCUMENT TOWARDS BETTER HEALTH ARE AIMED AT ACHIEVING EQUITY IN ACCESS TO CARE AND PROVIDING BETTER CHOICE AND BETTER CONSUMER PROTECTION IN THE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM.
IT IS NOT A PROPOSAL FOR FEE INCREASES, BUT IS ABOUT RATIONALISING THE FEE STRUCTURE OF PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES AND OFFERING POSSIBLE OPTIONS FOR CHANGE FOR THE BETTER, SHE ADDED.
/MRS WONG .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 6 -
MRS WONG WAS REASSURING A GROUP OF HYPERTENSION PATIENTS DURING HER VISIT TO THE TSING Yl TOWN CLINIC THIS (TUESDAY! AFTERNOON.
NOTING THAT THE PATIENTS WERE WORRIED ABOUT POSSIBLE FEE INCREASES TO BE BROUGHT ABOUT BY THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT, MRS WONG STRESSED: "I FULLY UNDERSTAND THAT INITIAL RESPONSE SUGGESTS THAT THERE IS RESISTANCE TO CHANGE.
’’THIS IS BASED ON MISCONCEPTION THAT THERE WOULD BE VAST FEE INCREASES.
’’HENCE, MY COLLEAGUES AND I COME TO TALK TO YOU PERSONALLY AND TO REASSURE YOU THAT THE GOVERNMENT IS NOT ONLY COMMITTED TO QUALITY HEALTH CARE BUT ALSO TO STRENGTHEN THE SAFETY NET.”
SHE SAID IT REMAINED THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY THAT ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE WAS A PUBLIC RIGHT.
MRS WONG TOLD THE PATIENTS THAT THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT OFFERED AN APPROACH TO EXEMPT, FULLY OR PARTIALLY, THOSE WHO HAD SPECIAL NEEDS, FROM PAYING FEES.
IN THIS RESPECT, SHE SAID, THE POOR, THE OLD, LONG-STAY PATIENTS AND DISABLED PEOPLE SHOULD COME UNDER THE NEW SCHEME IF THE PROPOSALS TN THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT WERE ACCEPTED.
ASKED TO COMMENT ON THE PROPOSED PEGGING OF MEDICAL FEES TO COSTS, THE SECRETARY SAID THE INCONSISTENCIES AND ANOMALIES TN THE EXISTING FEE STRUCTURE NEEDED TO BE RATI ONAL T SEI).
THUS, A NUMBER OF DIFFERENT WAYS OF CHARGING AND GIVING WAIVERS HAD BEEN IDENTIFIED.
FOR EXAMPLE, IF THE CONCEPT OF USING OPERATING COST AS A MEANS OF CALCULATION WAS ACCEPTED AND UNDER THE SCENARIO OF, SAY, A 95 PER CENT SUBSIDY AND A 50 PER CENT WAIVER FOR SELECTED GROUPS, THE FEES CHARGED COULD BE $105 FOR ACUTE/GENERAL HOSPITALS, WHILE THE EXEMPTED FEE LEVEL WOULD BE $52.50.
FOR. INFIRMARIES, FEES WOULD BE $45.50, WHILE THE EXEMPTED FEE LEVEL WOULD BE $23.
"IN THE CASE OF INFIRMARIES, IF THIS FORMULA WAS ACCEPTED, THOSE IN NEED WOULD PAY MUCH LESS THAN AT PRESENT,” MRS WONG NOTED.
SHE CALLED ON THE PUBLIC TO SPEND SOME TIME READING THE DOCUMENT THEMSELVES AND FORWARD THEIR VIEWS TO THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH.
MRS WONG WAS ACCOMPANIED ON THE TOUR BY THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR MARGARET CHAN.
TSING YI TOWN CLINIC IS ONE OF THE 24 GOVERNMENT CLINICS WHICH HAVE LAUNCHED A PILOT SCHEME ON SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS FOR DIABETES MELL ITUS AND HYPERTENSION PATIENTS.
/THE AIM .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
7
THE AIM IS TO ENABLE THESE PATIENTS, THROUGH GROUP HEALTH TALKS, TO HAVE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE DISEASE AND TO APPLY THE KNOWLEDGE LEARNED IN THEIR DAILY LIFE SO AS TO ACHIEVE ’’SELF RELIANCE”.
DURING THE VISIT, MRS WONG NOTED THAT IMPROVEMENTS HAD BEEN MADE TO THE CLINIC ENVIRONMENT UNDER THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH’S PERFORMANCE PLEDGES.
THESE INCLUDE AIR-CONDITIONED WAITING AREA WITH MORE COMFORTABLE SEATS; PLAY AREA FOR CHILDREN; PROVISION OF DRINKING FOUNTAIN AND WEIGHING SCALE; ATTRACTIVE DISPLAY OF HEALTH EDUCATION MATERIALS; AND A PATIENT ASSISTANCE COUNTER OFFERING PROMPT INFORMATION AND HELP TO PATIENTS.
CLINIC PROCEDURES HAVE ALSO BEEN IMPROVED TO PLACE A GREATER EMPHASIS ON CONVENIENCE, COMFORT AND CONTINUITY OF CARE.
-----------------------------0------- CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM OVER SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDED URUGUAY ROUND *****
THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE, MR TONY MILLER, TODAY (TUESDAY) SAID HE WAS CAUTIOUSLY OPTIMISTIC THAT THE URUGUAY ROUND OF MULTILATERAL NEGOTIATIONS UNDER THE GATT WOULD BE SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDED THIS YEAR.
"THE AGREEMENT AMONG THE G-7 IN TOKYO WAS THE BEST NEWS ON THE TRADE FRONT FOR SOME TIME. CLEARLY THEY HAVE NOT RESOLVED ALL THE ISSUES AMONGST THEMSELVES. THEY HAVE, HOWEVER, CLEARED THE WAY FOR A RESUMPTION OF THE WIDER MULTILATERAL NEGOTIATIONS IN GENEVA."
MR MILLER SAID HE THOUGHT THE KEY TO A SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION WAS AN EARLY RETURN TO NEGOTIATING THE MARKET ACCESS ELEMENTS OF THE PACKAGE.
"IT IS VITAL THAT ALL PLAYERS ENGAGE RAPIDLY AND CONSTRUCTIVELY IN NEGOTIATIONS ON REDUCING TARIFFS ON GOODS AND COMMITTING THEMSELVES TO NEW OBLIGATIONS IN RESPECT OF SERVICES.
"NEGOTIATING A BALANCED PACKAGE ON THESE SO-CALLED MARKET ACCESS ISSUES WILL TAKE TIME AND ENERGY. THEY SHOULD BE THE FIRST PRIORITY."
MR MILLER CAUTIONED AGAINST RE-OPENING THE DRAFT FINAL ACT PUT FORWARD BY THE GATT DIRECTOR-GENERAL IN DECEMBER 1991.
"THERE IS NOTHING TO GAIN AND EVERYTHING TO LOSE BY TINKERING WITH THE DRAFT FINAL ACT, OR "DUNKEL TEXT" AS IT IS CALLED. THIS WOULD BE QUITE COUNTER-PRODUCT IVE. ALL THE PLAYERS CAN POINT TO SOMETHING WHICH THEY DON’T LIKE IN THE DRAFT, BUT 1 AM CONVINCED IT IS I’HE BEST BASIS FOR ULTIMATE AGREEMENT."
/MR MILLER .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 8 -
MR MILLER NOTED THAT HE WOULD BE GOING TO GENEVA NEXT WEEK TO TAKE PART IN A MEETING OE THE TRADE NEGOTIATIONS COMMITTEE.
"HONG KONG IS READY TO DO ITS PART IN GETTING THE NEGOTIATIONS BACK ON THE RAILS AND MOVING. I MYSELF WILL BE FLYING TO GENEVA NEXT WEEK FOR THE TRADE NEGOTIATIONS COMMITTEE, MY COLLEAGUES WILL BE THERE BOTH THIS WEEK AND NEXT TO PURSUE NEGOTIATIONS ON BOTH GOODS AND SERVICES.
"WE LOOK FORWARD TO AN EQUAL COMMITMENT TO PROGRESS IN LIBERALISING TRADE FROM OUR TRADING PARTNERS," HE SAID.
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CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT STATISTICS FOR 1ST QUARTER OF 1993 *****
THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS, INCLUDING GENERAL AND SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS, AMOUNTED TO $17 BILLION IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993, WHICH WAS 5.5% HIGHER THAN A YEAR AGO, ACCORDING TO THE RESULTS OF THE QUARTERLY SURVEY OF CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT RELEASED TODAY (TUESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STAT I STICS DEPARTMENT.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE INCREASE WAS LARGELY DUE TO MORE ACTIVE CONSTRUCTION WORK AT PUBLIC SITES AND A SIGNIFICANT GROWTH OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES AT LOCATIONS OTHER THAN CONSTRUCTION SITES.
COMPARED WITH THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992, THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS DROPPED BY 7.3%. THE DECREASE WAS PARTLY ATTRIBUTABLE TO FEWER WORKING DAYS IN THE QUARTER DUE TO THE CHINESE NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS.
THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED AT PRIVATE SITES TOTALLED $7.4 BILLION BEING 7.2% LOWER THAN A YEAR AGO.
THE DECREASE WAS LARGELY DUE TO A DROP IN THE VALUE OF WORK DONE FOR COMMERCIAL BUILDING PROJECTS. COMPARED WITH THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992, THE VALUE ALSO DROPPED BY 10.5%.
THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED AT PUBLIC SITES WAS $4.9 BILLION, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 18.3% OVER THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992.
THE INCREASE WAS MAINLY DUE TO THE INTENSIFICATION OF WORKS FOR A NUMBER OF MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS. COMPARED WITH THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992, THE VALUE DROPPED BY 2.5%.
THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY GENERAL CONTRACTORS AT LOCATIONS OTHER THAN CONSTRUCTION SITES WAS $3.3 BILLION, WHICH WAS 13.5% HIGHER THAN IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992 BUT 9% LOWER THAN IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992.
/THE TYPES .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
9 -
THE TYPES Ob WORK PERFORMED INCLUDED MINOR NEW CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION WORKS AT ERECTED BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES.
THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS AT LOCATIONS OTHER THAN CONSTRUCTION SITES, COMPRISING MAINLY ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL FITTING WORKS, TOTALLED $1.5 BILLION.
THIS WAS 27. H% HIGHER THAN IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992 BUT 1.7% LOWER THAN IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992.
ANALYSED BY END-USE, RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PROJECTS (INCLUDING COMBINED RESIDENTIAL / NON-RESIDENT I AL BUILDINGS) CONTINUED TO ACCOUNT FOR THE GREATEST PORTION OF THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED AT CONSTRUCTION SITES, AMOUNTING TO $4.8 BILLION.
THE VALUE, HOWEVER, DECREASED BY 1.5% AND 8.3% RESPECTIVELY COMPARED WITH THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992 AND THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992.
TRANSPORT PROJECTS CONTINUED TO FORM THE SECOND LARGEST CATEGORY OF CONSTRUCTION SITE WORK. THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED FOR SUCH PROJECTS WAS $2.4 BILLION. THIS WAS 75.7% AND 7.0% HIGHER THAN IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992 AND THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992 RESPECTIVELY.
THE LARGE INCREASE WAS MAINLY ATTRIBUTABLE TO A NUMBER OF MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS , THE SPOKESMAN SAI I).
COMMERCIAL BUILDING PROJECTS CONSTITUTED THE THIRD LARGEST CATEGORY OF CONSTRUCTION SITE WORK.
THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED FOR SUCH PROJECTS TOTALLED $1.7 BILLION, WHICH WAS 25.6% AND 9.3% LOWER THAN IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992 AND THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992 RESPECTIVELY.
OWING TO THE WIDESPREAD SUB-CONTRACTING PRACTICES IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, A CONSTRUCTION ESTABLISHMENT CAN BE A MAIN CONTRACTOR FOR ONE CONTRACT AND A SUB-CONTRACTOR FOR ANOTHER CONTRACT AT THE SAME TIME.
THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS, INCLUDING BOTH GENERAL AND SPECIAL TRADE CONTRACTORS, COVERS ONLY THOSE PROJECTS TN WHICH THE CONSTRUCTION ESTABLISHMENT TAKES THE ROLE OF A MAIN CONTRACTOR, BUT NOT PROJECTS IN WHICH IT TAKES ONLY THE ROLE OF A SUB-CONTRACTOR.
HOWEVER, SUB-CONTRACTORS’ CONTRIBUTION TO PROJECTS SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY THE MAIN CONTRACTORS FOR WHOM THEY WORKED.
MORE DETAILED STATISTICS ON CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT ARE GIVEN IN THE ’’REPORT ON THE QUARTERLY SURVEY OF CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT, 1ST QUARTER 1993” .
/THE REPORT .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 10 -
THE REPORT IS NOW ON SALE AT $5 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, OR AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS SECTION, WANCHAI TOWER, 19TH ELOOR, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI. REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION MAY ALSO BE ARRANGED.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND REAL ESTATE STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 839 3265.
------0--------
TRADE IN SERVICES REFLECTS GROWTH OF HONG KONG * * ♦ * * * t
OVER THE LAST DECADE, HONG KONG HAD BOTH GROWN AND CHANGED TO BE MORE THAN JUST A MANUFACTURER, TRADER AND FINANCIAL CENTRE, THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE, MR TONY MILLER, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).
HE SAID THE CHANGE WAS DULY REFLECTED IN THE CONTRIBUTION OF SERVICES TO THE ECONOMY.
ALTHOUGH MANUFACTURING HAS CONTINUED TO GROW IN ABSOLUTE TERMS (ABOUT 137 PER CENT OVER THE 10 YEARS UP TO 1991), THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR’S SHARE OF HONG KONG’S GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) FELL FROM 23 PER CENT TO 16 PER CENT BETWEEN I9R1 AND 1991.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THE SERVICE SECTOR SHARE OF GDP HAS RISEN FROM 64 PER CENT TO 73 PER CENT.
EMPLOYMENT FIGURES TELL THE SAME STORY. MANUFACTURING PROVIDED 39 PER CENT OF JOBS IN 1981; 10 YEARS LATER IT PROVIDES ONLY 24 PER CENT. THE SERVICE SECTOR EMPLOYED 50 PER CENT OF THE WORKFORCE IN 1981; IT HAS SINCE RISEN TO 66 PER CENT.
"HONG KONG HAS BECOME THE BUSINESS SERVICE CENTRE FOR A LARGE PART OF THE REGION. IN DOING SO IT PROVIDES AN EXCELLENT EXAMPLE OF THE TENDENCY AROUND THE WORLD FOR COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES TO BECOME MORE HIGHLY CONCENTRATED IN SUPER SERVICE CENTRES," MR MILLER SAID.
"HONG KONG SERVES AS THE IDEAL BUSINESS CENTRE FOR INTERNATIONAL FIRMS LOOKING TO DO BUSINESS IN THE REGION. IT DOES SO BECAUSE ITS LEGAL SYSTEM IS FAIR AND FAMILIAR AND IT OFFERS THE FULL RANGE OF SOPHISTICATID COMMERCIAL SERVICES WHICH THE MODERN BUSINESSMEN DEMAND,” HE SAID.
"HONG KONG ALSO SERVES AS A MARKET AND SHOWCASE FOR GOODS FROM ALL AROUND THE WORLD. ITS WEALTH HAS ALLOWED BOTH INDIVIDUALS AND CORPORATIONS TO BE MORE OSTENTATIOUS IN EVERYTHING FROM ARCHITECTURE THROUGH BOATS TO CUISINE AND SO ON THROUGH THE ALPHABET.”
SPEAKING AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF CITY LION’S CLUB OF HONG KONG, MR MILLER SAID HONG KONG HAD ACQUIRED TWO LESS TANGIBLE ASSETS: CONNECT I ONS AND EXPERT I S’E .
/"HONG KONG'S .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 11 -
’’HONG KONG’S CLOSE FAMILY AND CULTURAL CONNECTIONS WITH THE MAINLAND MADE IT ONLY NATURAL THAT ITS ENTREPRENEURS SHOULD BE THE FIRST TO SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITIES PRESENTED B'i (HINA’S NEW OPENNESS,” MR MILLER SAID.
’’THE SIMPLEST MEASURE OF BOTH THEIR BOLDNESS AND THEIR SUCCESS IS THE FACT THAT THEY NOW EMPLOY SOME THREI* MILLION WORKERS IN ENTERPRISES IN GUANGDONG PROVINCE ALONE,” HE SAID.
BESIDES, HONG KONG ALSO HAS STRONG EXTERNAL LINKS WITH OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD.
’’THE LINKS FIRST FORGED BY TRADE HAVE BEEN REINFORCED, AS MANY HONG KONG ENTERPRISES HAVE OUT-GROWN THE TERRITORY AND GONE MULTINATIONAL.
”IT ALSO HAS THE LINKS WHICH COME WITH OVERSEAS EDUCATION AND THESE ARE PARTICULARLY STRONG WITH UNITED STATFS AND CANADA.
"SMALL WONDER THEREFORE THAT BUSINESSMEN IN THOSE COUNTRIES HAVE LOOKED TO THEIR NETWORK OF FRIENDS IN HONG KONG TO HELP THEM OPEN DOORS IN CHINA,” MR MILLER SAID.
TURNING TO THE OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSET, EXPERTISE, HE SAID IT WAS MUCH HARDER TO QUANTIFY, BUT IT IS NONETHELESS REAL.
IT COMES IN SEVERAL FORMS.
IT (’ONES IN THE FORM OF TECHNICAL YND MANAGERIAL EXPERTISE WHICH CHINA SO BADLY NEEDS TO ENABLE IT TO ADJUST TO MORE MARKET-ORIENTED AND HIGHER-TECH MANUFACTURING PROCESSES.
THERE ARE SOME 50,000 HONG KONG TECHNK IANS AND MANAGERS CURRENTLY’ DEPLOYED INSIDE ('HINA.
IT COMES IN THE FORM OF BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL SERVICES. HONG KONG HAS CARVED A NICHE FOR ITSELF IN PUTTING TOGETHER THE FINANCING FOR ENTERPRISES INVOLVING A MAINLAND COMPONENT.
IT COMES IN THE FORM OF SYSTEMS AND OPERATING PROCEDURES. HONG KONG’S TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICAT IONS SYSTEMS PROVIDE A WORKING MODEL FROM WHICH THE MAINLAND (’AN LEARN AS IT GRADUALLY DISMANTLES UNWIELDY STATE-OWNED MONOPOLIES.
IT COMES IN THE FORM OF A SOPHISTICATED FINANCIAL AND COMMERCIAL INFRASTRUCTl RE. THE MAINLAND IS ABLE TO LEARN FROM THE WAY SUCH SERVICES OPERATE IN HONG KONG IN DESIGNING THEIR OWN SYSTEMS AND REGULATORY STRUCTURE.
FINALLY, IT COMES IN THE FORM OF COMMERCIAL SAVVY. HONG KONG HAS BECOME THE DEAL MAKER FOR MANY FOREIGN ENTERPRISES LOOKING FOR ENTRY INTO THE CHINA MARKET.
NOTING THAT THESE DEVELOPMENTS HAD BEEN BUSINESS-LED AND NATURAL DEVELOPMENTS, HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S ROLE WAS THAT OF A FACILITATOR, ENSURING THAI’ NOTHING IMPEDED DEVELOPMENT OF THE ECONOMY.
/GOVERNMENT'S STRATEGIC .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 12 -
GOVERNMENT’S STRATEGIC PLANS MUST ENSURE THAT HONG KONG HAD THE PHYSICAL INFRASTURCTURE NECESSARY FOR THE PROVISION OF ALL THE SERVICES MENTIONED, HE SAID.
’’THE PORT AND AIRPORT ARE OBVIOUS EXAMPLES, AS ARE ROADS AND RAILWAYS. SO TOO ARE WATER, GAS AND ELECTRIC 1 TV AND OF COURSE COMMUNICATIONS. LESS OBVIOUS ARE THE SOFT INFRASTRUCTURE OF EDUCATION AND MODERN SOCIAL SERVICES.”
MR MILLER NOTED THAT TRAFFIC THROUGH THE PORT WAS GROWING AT 20 PER CENT A YEAR AND THAT 38 MILLION-PLUS PASSENGER MOVEMENTS ARRIVED AND DEPARTED BY AIR AND SEA IN 1992.
”ON THE TRADE FRONT, WE NEED CONSTANTLY TO BE ALERT TO ANY ACTION WHICH THREATENS OUR. ACCESS TO FOREIGN MARKETS, OR DISADVANTAGES OUR TRADERS, INCLUDING THE FORMATION OF EXCLUSIVE TRADE BLOCS.”
MR MILLER CALLED ON THOSE PRESENT TO IGNORE THE TALK ABOUT REGIONAL FREE TRADE GROUPINGS.
’’THEY ARE VERY MUCH A SECOND BEST TO THE MULTILATERAL TRADE SYSTEM UNDER THE GATT, IN WHICH ALL ARE EQUAL AND SHARE EQUALLY IN THE BENEFITS OF TRADE LIBERALISATION.”
’’THE CURRENT ROUND OF NEGOTIATIONS, THE "URUGUAY ROUND", IS THE MOST AMBITIOUS EVER ATTEMPTED. IT IS ALSO PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT TO HONG KONG, IN VIEW OF THE CHANGED SHAPE OF OUR ECONOMY, BECAUSE TRADE IN SERVICES IS TO BE BROUGHT UNDER THE SAME DISCIPLINES.
’’OVER THE COMING MONTHS, MY COLLEAGUES AND I WILL BE STRIVING TO ENSURE THAT THE FINAL PACKAGE NOT ONLY REDUCES TARIFFS AND THEREFORE BOOSTS TRADE IN GOODS, BUT ALSO SECURES ACCESS FOR OUR INCREASINGLY ACTIVE SERVICES INDUSTRY," HE SAID.
MR MILLER WILL BE ATTENDING A GATT MEETING IN GENEVA NEXT WEEK.
---------0-----------
RESCUE PROJECTS UNEARTH VALUABLE ARTEFACTS * * * * ♦
THROUGH LARGE-SCALE
ANT I GU I T I ES AND MONI 'MENTS INTERESTING ARTEFACTS HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF THE PRE-HISTORY
RESCUE EXCAVATIONS SINCE 1990 BY THE OFFICE (AMO), A LARGE QUANTITY OF COME TO LIGHT, ENHANCING PEOPLE’S AND EARLY HISTORY OF HONG KONG.
THE REMARK WAS MAPI BY SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, TODAY (TUESDAY) AT A PRESS CONFERENCE ON RCHAEOLOGICAL EXCAVATION AT YUNG LONG IN TURN MUN.
MR SO SAID THE LARGE QUANTITY OF UNEARTHED WERE EXAMPLES OF HOW SUCH ARTEFAC TS THE LIFE OF ANCIENT SETTLERS IN PRE-HISTORIC PART OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDS
HELPED ONE UNDERSTAND TIMES IN THE NORTHERN
/ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
13 -
ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS IN RECENT l)l< VDES HAI) LEI) I’O THE IDENTIFICATION OF MORE THAN 200 ARC II V EOLOG I t AI SITI-S IN HONG KONG WHICH WERE BELIEVED TO (ONT VIN \ WEALTH OF VRTEFACTS AND OTHER EXCITING RELICS, HE SAID.
MR SO STRESSED THAT PRESERVATION OE \RCHAEOL< )G IC AL SITES MUST BE A PRIME CONCERN, NOTING THAT BECAUSE OE THE THRIVING ECONOMY AND UNPRECEDENTED PACE OE DEV ELOPMENT IN HONG KONG, SOME OE THOSE SI IES HAI) BEEN SUBJEC TED TO THREATS OE OBLITERATION IN REC ENT YEARS.
THE SITUATION WAS FURTHER VGGRAVATED B\ HIE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW AIRPORT WHICH POSED SERIOUS THREATS To \ NUMBER OE MAJOR ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES IN THE TE.RRITORV.
TO REMEDY THE SITUATION. MR SO NOTED Till VMo HAD IMPLEMENTED A VIGOROUS PROGRAMME OF RESCUE EXCAVATION WITHIN THE LAST FEW YEARS.
HE SAID THROUGH LIAISON WITH RELEVANT GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, THE AMO MONITORED VLL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS TO ENSURE THAT SITES OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL INTEREST WOULD NOT BE AFFECTED.
IN SOME CASES, INTERVENTION BY THE AMO HAD LED TO REALIGNMENT OF THE ORIGINALLV PLANNED DEV E LOPMENT BOUNDARY, ENABLING SOME OF THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES TO BE PRESERVED INTACT, HE ADDED.
FOR THOSE SITES WHICH COULD NOT AVOID DESTRUCTION, NR SO SAID TIMELY RESCUE EXCAVATIONS MOI NTED BY THE AMO ALONE, OR IN CONJUNCTION WITH OTHER LOCAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL INST1 TUT IONS, HAD SUCCESS FULLY PRESERVED THE MANV VALUABLE ARTEFACTS UNEARTHED FROM THE SITES.
SINCE 1990, V SERIES OF LARGE-SCALE RESCUE EXCAVATIONS BY* THE AMO HAVE TAKEN PLACE ON 17 ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES, MOSTLY ON CHFK LAP KOK AND NORTH LAN TAI AS WELL AS IN TUEN MUN.
MR SO NOTED ALL THESE VC H I EVEMENTS WERE NOT POSSIBLE WITHOUT THE SUPPORT VND ASSISTANCE BY LOCAL INSTITUTIONS AND DEDICATED INDIVIDUALS.
’THE EXCAVATION VT V UNG LONG HVD BEIL UN DI R T VK E M FOR SIX MONTHS AND WAS ONIA COMPLETED IN MARCH THIS V I- AR.
IT WAS FULLY FUNDED B\ CHINA LIGHT VND POWER CO LTD WHICH PROVIDED CASH DON VT I ON AND OTHER SUPPORTING E AC ILITIES TOTALLING $1.1 MILLION.
THE EXCAVATION REVEALED TWO UNDISTURBED CULTURAL DEPOSITS. THE EARLIER ONE DATES BACK TO ABOUT 1000 B.c . WHICH IS THE OLDEST ARCHAEOLOGICAL REMAINS IN HONG KONG. THE LATER NEOLITHIC DEPOSIT (ABOUT 2500 BC ) IS EXCEPTIONALLY RICH.
THE SITE AT YUNG LONG W VS RATED IN V TERRITORY-WIDE SURVEY AS ONE OF THE FIVE MOST IMPORTANT ARC II VE< >1 o(; I c \ I SITES IL HONG KONG. THE OTHER FOUR BEING LUNG KWU IAN, UNG KEI SHEUNG TAN, SHAM WAN ON LAMMA ISLAND AND CHEUNG SHV ON LANTAU.
- 0--------
/14 .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
14
3,200 OFFERED BETTER HOMES LAST YEAR *****
MORE THAN 3,200 PEOPLE HAVE THEIR LIVING ENVIRONMENT IMPROVED LAST FINANCIAL YEAR THROUGH THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT’S COMPASSIONATE REHOUSING SCHEME, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).
THE SPOKESMAN SAID A TOTAL OF 1,816 CASES HAD BEEN RECOMMENDED TO THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT IN 1992/93.
"THE SCHEME HELPS INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES WITH IMMEDIATE AND LONG-TERM HOUSING NEEDS BECAUSE OF THEIR VERY SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES AND PERSONAL FACTORS.
"THEY MAY EITHER BE PERSONS WITH POOR HEALTH AND DISABILITIES, OR VICTIMS OF FAMILY VIOLENCE.
"THEY SHOULD NORMALLY HAVE FINANCIAL MEANS LOWER THAN THE INCOME LIMITS FOR PUBLIC HOUSING APPLICANTS AND FULFIL OTHER RESIDENCE QUALIFICATIONS LAID DOWN BY THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
SOCIAL WORKERS OF THE DEPARTMENT \ND SOME NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS MAY IDENTIFY THE CASES DURING IHEIR DA ILY WORK AND RECOMMEND THEM FOR COMPASSIONATE REHOUSING.
"NEEDY INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES MAN MAKE DIRECT ENQUIRIES OF OUR DEPARTMENT TOO," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
"COMPASSIONATE REHOUSING IS ONLY ONE OF THE VIABLE SOLUTIONS TO HOUSING PROBLEMS. OTHER ASSISTANCE SUCH AS HOSTEL PLACEMENT AND FINANCIAL GRANTS WOULD BE ARRANGED II- APPROPRIATE," HI- STRESSED.
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LUNAR NEW YEAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY APPROVED ******
THE FIREWORKS VETTING COMM I III-1- HAS APPROVED AN APPLICATION from the bank of china group to sponsor a 23-MINUTE fireworks display DURING THE LUNAR NEW YEAR NEXT YEAR, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY).
"THE DISPLAY WILL BE STAGED OVER VICTORIA HARBOUR FROM 8 PM ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1994, THE SECOND DAY OF THE LUNAR NEW YEAR.
IN CASE OF BAD WEATHER, THE DISPLAY WILL BE POSTPONED TO SUNDAY. FEBRUARY 13, 199'1, WHICH IS THE FOURTH DAY OF THE LUNAR NEW YEAR," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
/THE COMING .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 15 -
THE COMING DISPLAY WILL BE THE 13TH LUNAR NEW YEAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY SPONSORED BY THE PRIVATE SECTOR SINCE 1982. AS ON SIMILAR PREVIOUS OCCASIONS, THE URBAN COUNCIL WILL BE INVITED TO CO-ORGAN1SE THE EVENT.
"WE ARE DELIGHTED THAT THE BANK OF CHINA GROUP WILL BE MAKING THIS GENEROUS CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS THE ANNUAL EVENT TO ENTERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC DURING THE LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVITIES," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
- - 0-----------
IMPROVED EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS FOR PRE-1981
PNEUMOCONTOTICS
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
THE GOVERNMENT IS
ON FRIDAY (JULY 23) PNEUMOCON1OT1CS WHO WERE BEFORE JANUARY 1, 1981.
TO SEEK FUNDS FROM THE FINANCE COMMITTEE TO IMPROVE THE EX-GRATIA SCHEME FOR DIAGNOSED TO BE SUFFERING FROM THE DISEASE
THIS IS IN PARALLEL WITH THE IMPROVEMENT TO THE COMPENSATION PACKAGE PROVIDED UNDER THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE 1993 WHICH CAME INTO FORCE ON JULY 9 THIS YEAR.
IT IS ESTIMATED THAT ABOUT 600 PRE-1981 PNEUMOCONIOTICS WOULD BE ELIGIBLE FOR EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS.
AN AMOUNT OF $175 MILLION WILL BE REQUIRED TO MEET SUCH PAYMENTS WHICH WILL BE MET PARTLY BY AN UNSPENT BALANCE OF $30 MILLION UNDER THE SCHEME AND $145 MILLION TO BE SOUGHT FROM THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT THE EX-GRATIA PAYMENT, INITIALLY SET AT $3,000 PER MONTH, WOULD BE PAID QUARTERLY TO THE PNEUMOCONIOTICS UNTIL DEATH.
"THE QUARTERLY PAYMENT OF $9,000, WHICH WILL BE ADJUSTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH INFLATION, WILL BE PAID TO A PNEUMOCONIOTIC IN ADDITION TO THE DISABILITY ALLOWANCE TO WHICH HE MAY BE ENTITLED UNDER THE SOCIAL SECURITY ALLOWANCE SCHEME ADMINISTERED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT," HE SAID.
"MOREOVER, FOR THOSE PRE-1981 PNEUMOCON IOTICS WHO ARE BENEFICIARIES OF THE COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE SCHEME, THEIR ELIGIBILITY FOR SUCH BENEFIT WILL ALSO NOT BE AFFECTED BY THE EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS IF THEIR SAVINGS DO NOT EXCEED A PERMISSIBLE LEVEL."
AN AMOUNT NOT EXCEEDING $10,000 WOULD BE GIVEN TO MEET FUNERAL EXPENSES IF A PNEUMOCON IOTIC DIES AS A RESULT OF THE DISEASE.
/THE SPOKESMAN .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 16 -
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT SUBJECT TO THE APPROVAL. OE FUNDS FROM THE FINANCE COMMITTEE, AN ELIGIBLE PNEUMOCONIOTIC SHOULD BE ABLE TO RECEIVE THE EX-GRATIA PAYMENT FROM JUl.Y 9, 1993 IF HE MADE AN APPLICATION WITHIN THREE MONTHS FROM THAT DATE.
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL PROCESS ALL APPLICATIONS WHILE THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS COMPENSATION FUND BOARD WILL ACT AS A PAYMENT AGENT ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT.
--------0-----------
CONSULTATION ON LEGAL AID REVIEW IN PROGRESS
*****
THE GOVERNMENT IS STILL IN THE PROCESS OF CONSULTING THE LEGAL PROFESSION, OTHER INTERESTED BODIES AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC ON THE FINDINGS OF AN INTER-DEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP WHICH HAS REVIEWED THE LAW, POLICY AND PRACTICE GOVERNING THE PROVISION OF LEGAL AID SERVICES IN HONG KONG.
THE WORKING GROUP HAS PROPOSED SOME MEASURES TO IMPROVE THE PROVISION OF LEGAL AID SERVICES. ITS FINDINGS ARE SET OUT IN THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON LEGAL AID.
"COPIES OF THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ARE AVAILABLE, IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE, AT PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE COUNTERS OF ALL DISTRICT OFFICES," A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
"MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OFFER I HEIR COMMENTS ON THE FINDINGS OF THE WORKING GROUP."
COPIES OF THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER HAVE ALSO BEEN MADE AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, URBAN COUNCIL, REGIONAL COUNCIL, DISTRICT BOARDS AND OTHER INTERESTED GROUPS.
THERE WILL BE A MOTION DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY (JULY 21) URGING THE GOVERNMENT TO SET UP AN INDEPENDENT AUTHORITY TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF LEGAL AID.
AS THE VARIOUS OPTIONS OF ENHANCING THE INDEPENDENCE OF LEGAL AID ADMINISTRATION ARE DISCUSSED IN THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON LEGAL AID, THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE LEGCO MEMBERS DURING THE FORTHCOMING DEBATE WILL FORM PART OF THE FEEDBACK ON THAT CONSULTATIVE PAPER.
"OUR AIM IS TO FORMULATE THE FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS, AFTER TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE FEEDBACK ON THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER, TOWARDS THE END OF THIS YEAR," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
ALL COMMENTS ON THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION AT FIFTH FLOOR, MAIN WING, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG, ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 16.
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
17 -
FIRMS FINED FOR BREAKING POLLUTION LAW
*****
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY) RELEASED A LIST OF COMPANIES THAT HAVE BEEN FOUND GUILTY IN THE COURTS IN JUNE OF BREACHING ANTI-POLLUTI ON LEGISLATION CURRENTLY ENFORCED BY THE DEPARTMENT.
SIMILAR ANNOUNCEMENTS WILL BE MADE MONTHLY.
THE LEGAL PROCEEDINGS COULD BE VERY TIME-CONSUMING, AS A RESULT 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 IN JUNE:
NAME (COMPANY/ PERSON) ADDRESS DATE OF OFFENCE NATURE OF OFFENCE FTNES($) RECORD OF OFFENCE COURT
1.CHEUNG WAH INVESTMENT CO LTD QUEEN’S RD, CENTRAL 8.10.91- 2.4.92 APCO : 3,600 UNAUTHORISED INSTALLATION OR. ALTERATION OF FURNACES 1ST SOUTH KOWLOON
2.CHINA FUJIAN CORP FOR I NT. TECHNO-ECONOM1C COOPERATION GREAT 9.10. GEORGE ST, CAUSEWAY BAY 92 DASO : 1,500 PERMIT DUMPING OF DREDGED MARINE MUD AT SEA OFFSHORE OF CAPE COLLINSON WITHOUT A LICENCE 3RD EASTERN
3.HIP SHING LAUNDRY FTY WING KEI RD, KWAI CHUNG 19.10 .92 APCO : 10,000 EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 1ST TSUEN WAN
4.SO MA-TING CHAI WAN RI), CHAI WAN 30.10 .92 NCO : 2,000 USE/CAUSF.D TO BE USED A PRODUCT DU) NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT OF SECTION 17(1) 1ST EASTERN
5.MOON KEE BEAN CURD FACTORY PAT HEUNG, YUEN LONG 4.11. 92 WPCO : 15,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN DEEP BAY WATER CONTROL ZONE (WCZ) 1ST FANLING
/6. WONG LAM-HING ........
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 18 -
6.WONG LAM-H I NG YU CHAU ST, SHAM SHUI PO 5. 11.92 NCO : 4,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIRE- MENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 1ST NORTH KOWLOON
7.SAVIC SERVICES LTD WOODLANDS TERRACE, MID-LEVELS 8.11.92 NCO : 5,000 CARRY OUT CONSTRUCTION WORK WITHOUT A VALID PERMIT 1ST WESTERN
8.CHAN KWAN-LIT, ROBERT 8.11.92 NCO : 5,000 PERMIT CONSTRUCTION WORK WITHOUT A VALID PERMIT 1ST
9.YU WING- WOON, PETER PING CHE, FANL1NG 10.11.92 WPCO : 15,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE DEEP BAY WCZ 3RD FANLING
10.YEUNG YUK-LIN LAM TSUEN SAN TSUEN, TA I PO 1.12.92 WDO : 2,500 CAUSING LIQUID LIVESTOCK WASTE TO DISCHARGE INTO WATERCOURSE 1ST SHATIN
1 1 .DELTA TECH DEVELOPMENT LTD FA YUEN ST, MONG KOK 4.12.92 NCO : 7,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 2ND NORTH KOWLOON
12.LISUN BLEACHING & DYEING CO LTD WAI YIP ST, KWUN TONG 10.12.92 APCO : 3,000 FAILURE TO TAKE MEASURES TO ELI Ml NATE- UNNECESSARY AIR POLLUTANT 1ST KWUN TONG
13.KOON WAH MIRROR FACTORY LTD YUEN (’HAU KOK, SHA TIN 15.12.92 WPCO : 50,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE TOLO HARBOUR AND CHANNEL WCZ 2ND SHATIN
/14. WONG SUI-YEE .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 19 -
14.WONG SUI- SAN TONG 17.12.92 WDO : 4,000 1ST FANLING
YEE PO VILLAGE, FANLING WILFULLY OBSTRUCTED AN AUTHORISED OFFICER IN THE EXERCISE OF DUTY
15.WU YEUNG- CHUEN SHATIN TAU 17.12.92 NEW VILLAGE, SHA TIN WPCO : 20,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE TOLO HARBOUR AND CHANNEL WCZ 1ST SHATIN
16.YU WING-WOON, PETER PING CHE, 29.12.92 FANLING WPCO : 15,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN THE DEEP BAY WCZ 4 TH FANLING
17.UNISTRESS CONCRETE PRODUCTS ( H . K . ) LTD HO SHEUNG 5.1.93 HEUNG, SHEUNG SHUT WPCO : " 5,000 1ST it
18.CHOW CHEONG KEE WING KIN 6.1.93 RD, KWAI CHUNG APCO : 2,000 EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 1ST TSUEN WAN
19.KWAN HENG WASHING FACTORY LTD WAH SING 7.1.93 ST, KWAI CHUNG APCO : ” 3,000 1ST it
20.LAM’S IND CO KUNG YIP 7.1.93 ST, KWAI CHUNG APCO : ” 7,500 2ND ti
21.NG CHI- SENG SING WOO 7.1.93 RD, HAPPY VALLEY NCO : 5,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 1ST EASTERN
22.DAH CHONG HONG LTD ABERDEEN 20.1.93 MAIN RD, ABERDEEN NCO : ” 20,000 2ND EASTERN
23.GOLD-FLEX ELASTIC LTD FUI YIU 8.2.93 KOK ST, TSUEN WAN APCO : 8,500 EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 2ND TSUEN WAN
24.HOSPITAL authority GLOUCESTER 9.2.93 RD, APCO : " 6,000 2ND SAN PO KONG
CAUSEWAY BAY
/25. CASTRONG LTD ......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 20 -
25.CASTRONG LTD WING LAP 10.2.93 ST, KWAI CHUNG APCO : 1,000 1ST TSUEN WAN
26.LAM YU-LOY HENNESSY 11.2.93 RD, WAN CHAI NCO : FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 5,000 1ST EASTERN
27.MODERN CHINA MANAGEMENT LTD JAVA RD, 15.2.93 NORTH POINT NCO : 20,000 2ND EASTERN
28.SILVER LUCKY LTD BONHAM 16.2.93 STRAND WEST, SHEUNG WAN NCO : 10,000 1ST WESTERN
29.CHEONG WAN INVESTMENT LTD QUEEN’S RD 18.2.93 CENTRAL, CENTRAL NCO : 10,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 1ST WESTERN
30.JOIN INCOME INVESTMENT LTD SHANGHAI 23.2.93 ST, YAU MA TEI APCO : 2,000 EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 1ST -NORTH KOWLOON
31.PIONEER QUARRIES (HK) LTD LOCKHART 24.2.93 RD, WAN CHAI APCO : 8,000 CONTRAVENING TERMS OR CONDITIONS OF A SPECIFIED PROCESS LICENCE 1ST KWUN TONG
32.CHENG SAU-CHING PAK SHE 2G.2.93 PRAYA RD, CHEUNG CHAU NCO : 10,000 FAILURE TO TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 1ST WESTERN
33.THE INCORPORATED OWNERS OF WAH FAI COURT YING WA 1.3.93 TERRACE, CENTRAL NCO : ” 7,500 2ND f *
34.CHEUNG WAH INVESTMENT CO QUEEN’S 2.3.93 RD CENTRAL, CENTRAL APCO : 6,000 EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 1ST SAN PO KONG
LTD
/35. HANG HEUNG .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
21
35.HANG HEUNG CAKE SHOP CO LTD MAIN RD, YUEN LONG 3.3.93 APCO : ” 19,000 7TH FANLING
36.PO HING LAUNDRY LTD HUNG TO RD, KWUN TONG 4.3.93 APCO : ” 10,000 2ND KWUN TONG
37.SIU FUNG WEAVING & DYEING FTY LTD WING KEI RD, KWAI CHUNG 9.3.93 APCO : ” 5,500 1ST TSUEN WAN
38.HO WAH GOURMETS LTD JOHNSTON RD, WAN CHAI 11.3.93- 15.4.93 NCO : 15,000 FAILURE TO (PLUS A COMPLY WITH DAILY THE REQUIRE- FINE 36 MENT IN A DAYS 0 NOISE ABATE- $500 = MENT NOTICE $18,000) 2ND EASTERN
39.NEW TERRITORY SLAUGHTER HOUSE LTD TUNG TAU INDUSTRIAL AREA, YUEN LONG 12.3.93 WPCO : 30,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN DEEP BAY WATER CONTROL ZONE 2ND FANLING
40.TEXBLOOM LTD WANG YIP SOUTH ST, YUEN LONG 16.3.93 APCO : 7,000 EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 2ND FANLING
41.EMPIRE LEADER ENTERPRISES LTD QUEEN'S RD EAST, WAN CHAI 17.3.93 APCO : 1,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH A COURT ORDER ON PROHIBITING THE USE OF FURNACES, ETC 1ST EASTERN
42.YUE WAH RESTAURANT LTD WATERLOO RD, HO MAN TIN 23.3.93 APCO : 3,000 EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 3RD SOUTH KOWLOON
43.GUANG LEE PILING ENGINEERING CO LTD WAI CHING ST , YAU MA TEI 23.3.93 APCO : 5,000 FAILURE TO (PLUS ABATE AN AIR COURT FEE POLLUTANT $3,000) NUISANCE (GENERAL) 1ST TSUEN WAN
44.HO MAN WATERLOO TIN TSUI RD, KING LAU HO MAN TIN RESTAURANT LTD 23.3.93 APCO : 2,500 EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 1ST SOUTH KOWLOON
/45. JOIN INCOME ........
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993'
22 -
45.JOIN 1NCOME INVESTMENT LTD SHANGHAI ST, YAU MA TEI 25.3.93 APCO : 2,000 2ND NORTH KOWLOON
46.GUANG LEE PILING ENGINEERING CO LTD WAI CHING ST, YAU MA TEI 26.3.93 APCO : FAILURE TO ABATE AN AIR POLLUTANT NUISANCE (GENERAL) 5,000 2ND ( PLUS COURT FEE $3,000 ) TSUEN WAN
47.GUANG LEE PILING ENGINEERING CO LTD WAI CHING ST, YAU MA TEI 29.3.93 APCO : 5,000 3RD n
48.CHOSERISE LTD SHAU KEI WAN RD, SHAU KEI WAN 29.3.93- 26.4.93 NCO : FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 25,000 (PLUS A DAILY FI 29 DAYS $1,000 = $29,000) 3RD NE EASTERN
49.GUANG LEE PI LING ENGINEERING CO LTD WAI CHING ST, YAU MA TEI 2.4.93 APCO : 5,000 FAILURE TO ABATE AN AIR POLLUTANT NUISANCE (GENERAL) 4 TH TSUEN WAN
50.PAUL Y. CONSTRUCTION CO LTD QUEEN’S RD EAST, WAN CHAI 2.4.93 APCO : 2,000 1ST NORTH KOWLOON
51.PAUL Y. CONSTRUCTION CO LTD tl 6.4.93 APCO : 2,000 2ND tt
52.PAUL Y. CONSTRUCTION CO LTD ft 8.4.93 APCO : 2,000 3RD
53.PAUL V. CONSTRUCTION CO LTD ft 13.4.93 APCO : 2,000 4 TH •i
54.GUANG LEE PILING ENGINEERING CO LTD WAI CHING ST, YAU MA TEI 13.4.93 APCO : 5,000 5TH TSUEN WAN
55.PAUL Y. CONSTRUCTION CO LTD QUEEN’S RD EAST, WAN CHAI 15.4.93 APCO : FAILURE TO ABATE AN AIR 2,000 5TH NORTH KOWLOON
POLLUTANT
NUISANCE (GENERAL)
/56. GUANG LEE
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
23
56.GUANG LEE WAI CHING 22.1.93 APCO :
PILING ST,
ENGINEERING YAU MA TEI CO LTD
5,000 6TH TSUEN WAN
NOTE :
APCO : AIR POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE
NCO : NOISE CONTROL ORDINANCE
WPCO : WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE
DASO : DUMPING AT SKA ACT 1974 (OVERSEAS TERRITORIES) ORDER 1975
WDO : WASTE DISPOSAL ORDINANCE
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID CASES (43), (46), (47),
(49), (54) AND (56) WERE GENERATED BY A SERIES OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST
THE PILING CONTRACTOR, IE GUANG LEE PILING CONSTRUCTION CO LTD.
THE FINES FOR THESE CASES WERE ALL SET AT THEIR RESPECTIVE MAXIMUM ($5,000) FOR FAILURE TO ABATE AN AIR POLLUTANT NUISANCE UNDER THE APCO.
THE COURT IMPOSED AN ADDITIONAL COURT COST TOTALLING $6,000 IN RESPECT OF CASES (43) AND (46) WHEN THEY WERE FIRST BROUGHT BEFORE IT.
PAUL Y CONSTRUCTION CO LTD WAS ALSO PROSECUTED FIVE TIMES (CASE (50) TO (53) AND (55)) AT A FINE OF $2,000 EACH FOR FAILURE TO ABATE AN AIR POLLUTANT NUISANCE UNDER THE APCO, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
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 9 , 10,13,14,15
16 AND 17 MR PATRICK LEI TEL 685 1133
CASE 5 AND 39 DR ELLEN CHAN TEL 417 6 133
DASO MR EDDIE LUI TEL 755 3553
WDO • MR PATRICK LET TEL 685 1 133
HOWEVER, ENQUIRIES ON GENERAL ISSUES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE DEPARTMENT’S MEDIA RELATIONS SECTION.
/24 .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
24
NEW ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT OFFICE SETS UP *****
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT OFFICE (ENPO) FOR KWAI CHUNG AND TSING Yl AREA IS SET UP TOI)A\ (TUESDAY ) WITH THE SIGNING OF A CONSULTANCY AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT ( EPD) AND MOTT MACDONALD HONG KONG LTD.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EPD SAID SIMILAR TO WEST KOWLOON WHERE THE FIRST ENPO WAS ESTABLISHED LAST YEAR, KWAI CHUNG AND TSING Yl WAS AN AREA WHERE A NUMBER OF MAJOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS WOULD BE CARRIED OUT IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS.
THESE PROJECTS INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCT I ON OF THE ROUTE 3, THE DUPLICATE TSING Yl SOUTH BRIDGE AND THE PROSPECTIVE AIRPORT RAILWAY AND CONTAINER TERMINAL DEVELOPMENTS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE ENGINEERS OF ALL OF THESE PROJECTS WERE REQUIRED TO CONDUCT THEIR OWN MONITORING OF THE POSSIBLE IMPACT OF THE WORKS ON THE ENVIRONMENT, AND TO TAKE PREVENTIVE MEASURES TO ENSURE THAT ANY EFFECTS DO NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM LEVELS AND STANDARDS LAID DOWN BY THE GOVERNMENT.
"THE ENPO FOR KWAI CHUNG AND TSING Yl WILL PROVIDE AN EXTRA LAYER OF PROTECTION FOR THE ENVIRONMENT," HE SAID.
THE MAIN OBJECTIVE OF THE OFFICE IS TO INVESTIGATE THE CUMULATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF MAJOR PROJECTS IN THESE TWO DISTRICTS, HE ADDED.
THE CONSULTANT WILL ADOPT A PRO-ACTIVE APPROACH IN IDENTIFYING THE LIKELY CAUSES OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS AND RECOMMEND MITIGATION MEASURES BEFORE THEY ARISE.
THE OFFICE IS REQUIRED TO HELP THE GOVERNMENT LIAISE AND CONSULT THE AFFECTED PARTIES AND CONCERNED GROUPS WITHIN THE STUDY AREA. IT ALSO HELPS TO INVESTIGATE COMPLAINTS RECEIVED.
THE CONSULTANTS WILL WORK UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE EPI) FOR A PERIOD OF TWO YEARS AT AN ESTIMATED COST OF $14 MILLION.
THE FIRST ENPO WAS SET UP TO DEAL WITH PROJECTS IN WEST KOWLOON AND HAS BEEN IN OPERATION SINCE AUGUST 1992.
--------0-----------
CLOSURE OF NORTH POINT ILLEGAL STRUCTURES SOUGHT
******
I HE Bl I I.D I NG AUTHORITY IS SEEKING 1’0 ('LOSE 13 UN AUTHOR I S ED SI RIK. HIRES IN NORTH POINT SO THAT THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND THE PUBLIC .
THE UNAUTHORISED STRIKTURES ARE ON THE SIDE 24 JUPITER STREET AND 9-23 SHELL STREET. THEY STRUCTURES USED MAINLY FOR STORAGE.
AND REAR LANES OF
ARE SINGLE-STOREY
/NOTICES OF .......
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 1993
- 25 -
NOTICES OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR CLOSURE ORDERS FROM THE HONG RONG DISTRICT COURT UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE ON AUGUST 17 WERE POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODA\ (TUESDAY).
IT IS EXPECTED THAT DEMOLITION WILL START CLOSURE ORDERS ARE ISSUED.
AS SOON AS THE
--------0-----------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS *****
TENDER DATE PAPER ON OFFER ISSUE NUMBER AMOUNT APPLIED 20 JUL 93 EF BILLS Q329 HKD3,290 MN 20 JUL 93 EF BILLS H369 HKD2,050 MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HKDl,000 MN HKD400 MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 3.13 PCT 3.39 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 3.14 PCT 3.40 PCT
PRO RATA RATTO ABOUT 51 PCT ABOUT 20 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 3.16 PCT 3.44 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE TENDER DATE PAPER ON OFFER ISSUE NUMBER ISSUE DATE MATURITY DATE TENOR WEEK BEGINNING 26 JUL 1993 - 27 JUL 93 EF BILLS Q330 28 JUL 93 27 OCT 93 91 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HKD 1,000 + 200 MN
/26........
TUESDAY, Il'l.Y 20, 1993
26
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS * t *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,198
REVERSAL OF LAF + fi02
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,800
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY -800
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY "11 5
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,885
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.7 *+0.l* 20.7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS E :e notes/hong kong GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.46 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 1.375 100.58 3.85
1 MONTH 2.76 PCT 16 MONTHS 2 1 1 1 4.625 100.82 4.02
3 MONTHS 3.19 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.85 4.23
6 MONTHS 3.43 PCT 22 MONTHS 250 5 3.7 5 98.87 4.45
12 MONTHS 3.75 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 15,916 MN
CLOSED 20 JULY 1993
------0----------
Received by PRO on2LMJSl_
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
PROTECT AND ENHANCE OUR COUNTRYSIDE: GOVERNOR ................
HK STUDYING EFFECTS OF CHINA’S AUSTERITY MEASURES ............
HKMA CHIEF VISITS CHINA ...............................
HK OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES FOR JAPANESE BUSINESSMEN
276 VM'S RETURNED TODAY .............................
WATER CUTS IN SAI KUNG fc KOWLOON EAST .......................
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
5
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 1
PROTECT AND ENHANCE OUR COUNTRYSIDE: GOVERNOR
******
IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT EVERYTHING WERE TO BE DONE TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE HONG KONG’S COUNTRYSIDE, THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE JOCKEY CLUB RECREATION BUILDING OF TAI MONG TSAI OUTDOOR TRAINING CAMP, MR PATTEN SAID THIS COULD BE ACHIEVED THROUGH PLANNING AS WELL AS OTHER MEASURES.
”WE HAVE MAGNIFICENT COUNTRYSIDE AND THE COUNTRY PARKS ARE THE JEWEL OF OUR CROWN.
"HONG KONG WORKS VERY HARD. IT’S IMPORTANT, THEREFORE, THAT HONG KONG SHOULD HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY OF RELAXING AND PLAYING HARD AS WELL BECAUSE THAT’S THE BEST WAY TO A FIT AND HEALTHY AND HAPPY LIFE,” HE SAID.
THE GOVERNOR ALSO SAID THE NUMBER OF TOURISTS COMING TO HONG KONG COULD DOUBLE OR TREBLE IF MORE OF THEM KNEW ABOUT ITS BEAUTIFUL COUNTRYSIDE.
---------0-----------
HK STUDYING EFFECTS OF CHINA’S AUSTERITY MEASURES
♦ **»»*»
HONG KONG IS LOOKING CAREFULLY AT WHAT THE EFFECTS OF THE AUSTERITY MEASURES TAKEN BY CHINA MIGHT BE ON HONG KONG’S ECONOMY, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE SAID THE EFFECTS WERE DIFFICULT TO FORECAST AT THIS EARLY STAGE BUT HE NOTED THAT NOBODY WAS FORECASTING A DRAMATIC EFFECT ON HONG KONG’S ECONOMY.
HE ALSO SAID AT THE MOMENT, HE WAS STICKING TO THE FIVE PER CENT TREND GROWTH RATE IN DRAWING UP NEXT YEAR’S BUDGET.
MR MACLEOD WAS RESPONDING TO PRESS QUESTIONS BEFORE ATTENDING TODAY’S LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SITTING.
WHEN ASKED TO CLARIFY THE FORECAST OF "A REDUCTION IN GDP OF ABOUT ONE PER CENT" MENTIONED IN HIS INTERVIEW WITH A GERMAN NEWSPAPER, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID:
"I AM SIMPLY REFERRING TO SOME PUBLISHED FORECASTS BY LOCAL ECONOMISTS WHICH AT THIS EARLY STAGE WERE BRAVE ENOUGH TO MAKE A FORECAST AT ALL AND SAID THAT, IF I SUMMARISE THE THREE, THAT PROBABLY THE IMPACT ON HONG KONG’S GDP, PERHAPS STARTING NEXT YEAR, OR PERHAPS LATE THIS YEAR, WILL PROBABLY BE A REDUCTION IN OUR GDP GROWTH BY ABOUT ONE PER CENT.
/"SO IT .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
"SO IT WAS NOT MY FORECAST, I WAS ACTUALLY SUMMARISING OTHER PEOPLE’S FORECASTS."
"I AM NOT SAYING, NOR ARE THEY SAYING, A MINUS ONE PER CENT GDP GROWTH. THEY ARE SAYING SIMPLY GDP GROWTH WILL COME DOWN ONE PER CENT, SAY FROM ABOUT 5.5 TO 4.5," HE ADDED.
WHILE NO DRAMATIC EFFECTS ON OUR ECONOMY WAS BEING FORECAST, HE SAID CLEARLY THERE WOULD BE SOME EFFECTS ON TRADE FLOWS AND PERHAPS SOME EFFECTS ON THE STOCK AND THE PROPERTY MARKETS.
AT THE MOMENT, HE SAID, IT WAS OF PARTICULAR INTEREST TO HIM TO WORK OUT WHAT TO PUT INTO THE BUDGET.
"I HAVE TO MAKE SOME ASSUMPTIONS ABOUT THE TREND GROWT'I RATE WHICH WE HAVE BEEN USING THE FIGURE OF FIVE PER CENT FOR THE LAST COUPLE OF BUDGETS.
"AT THE MOMENT, I AM STICKING TO THAT FIVE PER CENT TREND GROWTH RATE,” HE SAID, NOTHING THAT THIS WAS BASICALLY A REASONABLY REASSURING MESSAGE.
HE SAID IT WAS A GENERAL VIEW THAT AT PREVIOUS OCCASIONS WHEN CHINA TOOK AUSTERITY MEASURES, THE ECONOMIC RECOVERY IN HONG KONG AND CHINA HAD BEEN QUITE QUICK.
HE SHARED THE JUDGEMENT THAT THE LONG-TERM PROSPECTS FOR CHINA WERE EXTREMELY GOOD, HE ADDED.
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HKMA CHIEF VISITS CHINA
******
IN RESPONSE TO PRESS ENQUIRIES ABOUT A NEWSPAPER REPORT THAT MR JOSEPH YAM, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY (HKMA), IS GOING TO VISIT BEIJING, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HKMA SAID:
"THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY MAINTAINS REGULAR CONTACTS WITH THE PEOPLE’S BANK OF CHINA. IT ALSO MAINTAINS REGULAR CONTACTS WITH THE BANK OF ENGLAND AND OTHER CENTRAL BANKS.
"THESE CONTACTS ARE IMPORTANT FOR THE CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE. VISITS BY OFFICIALS OF THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY TO THE PEOPLE’S BANK OF CHINA ARE PART OF THOSE REGULAR CONTACTS.
"MR JOSEPH YAM, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY IS PLANNING A VISIT TO THE PEOPLE’S BANK OF CHINA IN BEIJING AND SHANGHAI FROM JULY 30 TO AUGUST 3 THIS YEAR.
"HE WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY MR NORMAN CHAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (MONETARY MANAGEMENT). THE PROGRAMME OF THE VISIT IS BEING ORGANISED BY THE PEOPLE’S BANK OF CHINA."
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 3 -
HK OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES FOR JAPANESE BUSINESSMEN
*****
THE ECONOMIC AND TRADE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HONG KONG AND JAPAN AFTER 1997 WILL BECOME EVEN MORE SIGNIFICANT AND EVEN MORE BENEFICIAL TO BOTH PLACES BECAUSE HONG KONG IS ALWAYS FULL OF BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES, THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR T H CHAU, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AT A SEMINAR IN OSAKA, JAPAN, MR CHAU SAID HONG KONG HAD ONE OF THE SOUNDEST ECONOMIES IN THE WORLD TODAY.
"DESPITE RECESSIONS IN OUR MAJOR MARKETS, HONG KONG’S ECONOMY GREW BY 5% IN REAL TERMS IN 1992 AND IS EXPECTED TO GROW BY 5.5% IN REAL TERMS IN 1993."
GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT GROWTH IS FORECAST TO GROW AT AN AVERAGE RATE OF 5% IN REAL TERMS FOR THE NEXT FEW YEARS.
PER CAPITA GDP IS FORECAST TO REACH US$18,800 (TWO MILLION YEN) BY THE END OF 1993, HIGHEST IN ASIA AFTER JAPAN AND HIGHER THAN SOME MEMBER STATES OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITY, HE SAID.
HE NOTED THAT GROWING AFFLUENCE MEANT THAT HONG KONG PEOPLE WOULD CONTINUE TO HAVE A FANTASTIC APPETITE FOR JAPANESE GOODS.
"JAPANESE CARS WILL CONTINUE TO DOMINATE THE HONG KONG MARKET AND JAPANESE PRODUCTS WILL CONTINUE TO FILL THE SHELVES OF OUR DEPARTMENT STORES AND SHOPS," HE ADDED.
MR CHAU POINTED OUT THAT THERE WERE ALSO OTHER EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES AS HONG KONG PREPARED FOR ITS BRILLIANT FUTURE BY UPGRADING ITS PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE.
"THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT WILL SPEND HK$78 BILLION (1,100 BILLION YEN) ON PUBLIC WORKS IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS."
ON TOP OF THIS, THERE IS OF COURSE THE NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART AIRPORT WHICH IS NOW BEING BUILT, MR CHAU SAID.
THE NEW AIRPORT IN HONG KONG WOULD BE BUILT ON AN ISLAND AND ON LAND RECLAIMED FROM THE SEA AND THERE WOULD BE AN IMPRESSIVE SYSTEM OF BRIDGES, TUNNELS, SUPER-HIGHWAYS AND RAILROAD LINKING THE NEW AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK WITH THE CITY, HE SAID.
"WITH THEIR ENORMOUS STRENGTHS IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND FINANCIAL SECTORS IN HONG KONG, JAPANESE COMPANIES ARE WELL POSITIONED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE OPPORTUNITIES PRESENTED BY THE WORKS PROJECTS IN THE PIPELINE," MR CHAU ADDED.
HE NOTED THAT MITSUI WAS INVOLVED IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE TSING MA BRIDGE - A PROJECT COSTING HK$7.1 BILLION (99 BILLION YEN).
A KUMAGAI-MAEDA-YOKGAWA-HITACHI JOINT VENTURE WAS BUILDING THE KAP SHUI MUN BRIDGE AND MA WAN VIADUCT COSTING HK$1.6 BILLION (22 BILLION YEN).
/KUMAGAI GUMI .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 4 -
KUMAGAI GUMI AND MAEDA WERE INVOLVED IN THE HK$1.5 BILLION (21 BILLION YEN) WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION.
AOKI AND TOBISHIMA WERE BUILDING THE HK$1.3 BILLION (18 BILLION YEN) NORTH LANTAU EXPRESSWAY.
’’GIVEN ITS LOW AND SIMPLE TAXATION SYSTEM AND SOPHISTICATED TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND EXTENSIVE TRANSPORTATION LINKS, HONG KONG IS THE IDEAL BASE FOR REGIONAL OPERATIONS,” MR CHAU SAID.
"A SURVEY DONE LAST YEAR SHOWED THAT 74 JAPANESE COMPANIES HAD THEIR REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS IN HONG KONG. THE TERRITORY IS ALSO HOME TO THE REGIONAL OFFICES OF ANOTHER 193 JAPANESE COMPANIES," MR CHAU SAID.
------0--------
276 VM’S RETURNED TODAY *****
A GROUP OF 276 VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS TODAY (WEDNESDAY) RETURNED TO VIETNAM UNDER THE UNHCR’S VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME.
COMPRISING 110 MEN, 79 WOMEN, 46 BOYS AND 41 GIRLS, THEY WERE THE 157TH BATCH TO GO BACK UNDER THE PROGRAMME.
THIS GROUP BROUGHT TO 4,122 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS WHO HAVE RETURNED VOLUNTARILY THIS YEAR, AND TO 30,434 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF RETURNEES SINCE THE PROGRAMME STARTED IN MARCH 1989.
------0--------
WATER CUTS IN SAI KUNG & KOWLOON EAST « » « * *
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN SAI KUNG WILL GO OFF FROM 10 PM ON FRIDAY (JULY 23) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE INSTALLATION OF WASTE DETECTION METRES AT CLEAR WATER BAY ROAD.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE PREMISES AT A SECTION OF THE ROAD FROM PIK UK TSUEN TO SHAW’S STUDIO.
THE AFFECTED AREAS INCLUDE PIK UK TSUEN, TA KU LING SAN TSUEN, AIR HOUSE, PIK SHUI SAN TSUEN, CHUK KOK TSUEN AND TAI PO TSAI TSUEN.
MEANWHILE, OWING TO WATERMAINS CONNECTION WORK AT TAI WAN PUMPING STATION, SALT WATER SUPPLY TO MOST PREMISES IN KOWLOON EAST WILL GO OFF FROM MIDNIGHT TO 6.30 AM ON FRIDAY.
THE AFFECTED AREAS INCLUDE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, KOWLOON HOSPITAL AND ALL THE PREMISES IN HUNG HOM, TO KWA WAN, TUNG TAU, WONG TAI SIN, LOK FU, KOWLOON CITY, WANG TAU HOM, CHUK YUEN, KOWLOON TONG, MA TAU WAI AND MA TAU KOK.
------0--------
/5........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 5 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,885
REVERSAL OF LAF +115
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -20
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,980
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.6 »-0.1» 21.7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.39 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.59 3.84
1 MONTH 2.75 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.80 4.03
3 MONTHS 3.16 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.80 4.26
6 MONTHS 3.45 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.82 4.48
12 MONTHS 3.78 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 32,339 MN
CLOSED 21 JULY 1993
- - 0 - -
Received by PRO
on I 6 JUU3
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUPPLEMENT
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO,
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL:
GOVT STRONGLY REPRESENTS NATIONALITY MATTERS TO UK ........ 1
LEGCO TO BE INFORMED OF WHC FRANCHISEE’S PERFORMANCE ...... 2
DRAFT AIRPORT BILL AT ADVANCFD STAGE ...................... 3
NO REDUCTION TN FUNDS OR RESOURCES AFTER MERGER: SHA ...... 4
HK HAS A WELL-ESTABLISHED LEGAL AID SYSTEM: CS ............ 6
GOVT TAKES EVERY CHANCE TO EXPLAIN POI FTTCAI SYSTEM TO CHINA 8
HOMES FOR ELDERLY ADVISED ON FTRE SAFETY .................. 9
PLEADINGS TN CHINESE TN COURT EXPLAINED ................... 9
DELAY TN HIGH COURT CRIMINAL CASE FITLY EXPLAINED ......... 11
SAFETY OF SCAFFOLDING REGULATED ..........................- 13
ECOLOGICAL MITIGATION MEASURES FOR NEW AIRPORT ............ 14
ACTION AGAINST TAXI MALPRACTTCES INTENSIFIED .............. 14
FEE REVISION CAREFULLY PHASED ............................. 15
ANCHORAGE PLANS OFF TUFN MUN FAR ADVANCED ................. 16
PROSECUTIONS TAKEN AGAINST INDECENT FILM POSTERS .......... 16
COMPANY LAW GOVERNS QUALIFTCATIONS OF AUDITORS ............ 17
TEAM SFT UP TO DETECT TENANCY ABUSES ...................... 18
SPECIAL ARFA FOR HEAVY WATER-CONSUMING INDUSTRIES ......... 18
/COURSES TO ......
COURSES TO IMPROVE TFACHFRS' PROFICIENCY TN ENGLISH ............. 19
STANDARD TIME TO BF MAINTAINED .................................. 19
COURSES AND FACILITIES TN PRFVOCATTONAI SCHOOLS UNDER REGULAR REVIEW ....................................................... 20
COMPLAINT FIGURES AGAINST CSD ................................... 21
COMPLAINTS ABOUT WEAK WATER PRESSURE ............................ 21
MUNICIPAL COUNCILS RESPONSTBIF FOR RFFUSF COIIFCTTON ............ 22
ADEQUATE SECONDARY SCHOOL PLACES IN YUEN LONG ................... 22
MORE STRINGENT MEASURES GOVERNING USE OF 1 TFTTNG APPLIANCES . 23
REVISED RATE OF LEVY TO MEET PNEUMOCONIOTIC COMPENSATION .... 24
LEVY ON NON-FOOD IMPORTS TO RF RFDUCFD .......................... 24
AMENDMENTS TO CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEI BY-LAWS PASSED ............... 25
REDRESS SYSTEM TO BE IMPROVED ...............................: 26
STABILITY IN TRADE TTES REASSURED ............................... 27
LEGCO PASSES LEGAL ATD MOTION ................................... 28
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
GOVT STRONGLY REPRESENTS NATIONALITY MATTERS TO UK
*****
NON-GOVERNMENT MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAVE DECIDED TO WRITE TO THE HOME SECRETARY URGING HIM TO LOOK AT THE ISSUE OF GIVING FULL NATIONALITY TO MEMBERS OF THE NON-CHINESE ETHNIC MINORITIES TN HONG KONG.
THE GOVERNOR HAS ALSO WRITTEN AGAIN TO MINISTERS SAYING THAT HE HOPED HONG KONG’S VIEWS WOULD BE FULLY TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A STATEMENT ON BRITISH NATIONALITY MATTERS, SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNOR HAD ALSO TAKEN UP THE ISSUE OF WIVES AND WIDOWS OF EX-SERVICEMEN WITH LONDON.
HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD REPEATEDLY PRESSED THE HOME OFFICE TO CONSIDER EXERCISING FLEXIBILITY VIS-A-VIS THIS GROUP AS FAR AS THE QUALIFYING PERIOD OF NATURALISATION OR REGISTRATION WAS CONCERNED.
"WE SHALL GO ON PRESSING FOR THIS AS HARD AS WE CAN," SIR DAVID SAID.
HE SAID BOTH ISSUES WERE RAISED IN THE EXCO MEETING YESTERDAY.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY EMPHASISED THAT THE GOVERNMENT UNDERSTOOD THE GREAT CONCERN OF THE LEGCO AND THE COMMUNITY ON BRITISH NATIONALITY MATTERS FOR HONG KONG PEOPLE AND THAT IT SHOULD GO ON REPRESENTING THEM AS STRONGLY AS IT COULD TO HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT.
ON THE PHASED BRITISH NATIONAL (OVERSEAS) APPLICATION PROGRAMME WHICH IS NOW UNDERWAY, SIR DAVID SAID THE FIRST CUT-OFF DATE FOR REGISTRATION, FOR 22 TO 26 YEAR OLDS, WOULD COME AT THE END OF OCTOBER THIS YEAR.
HE ALSO SAID THE DRAFT BRITISH NATIONALITY (HONG KONG) (SELECTION SCHEME) (AMENDMENT) ORDER 1993 PROVIDED FOR APPLICATIONS FOR BRITISH CITIZENSHIP TO BE MADE IN A SECOND TRANCHE UNDER THE BRITISH NATIONALITY SCHEME, BEGINNING AT THE START OF NEXT YEAR.
SIR DAVID SAID THIS ORDER AMENDED THE METHOD FOR ALLOCATING THE QUOTA AMONG GROUPS, AND PROVIDED THE GOVERNOR WITH FLEXIBILITY TO REALLOCATE THE QUOTA IF ANY PARTICULAR GROUP WAS UNDER-SUBSCRIBED.
IT ALSO MAKES SOME MINOR AMENDMENTS TO THE POINT SYSTEM.
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/2.........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 2 -
LEGCO TO BE INFORMED OF WHC FRANCHISEE’S PERFORMANCE ******
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL BE KEPT INFORMED OF THE PERFORMANCE OF THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING FRANCHISEE AT VARIOUS IMPORTANT MILESTONES DURING THE FRANCHISEE’S FINANCIAL YEAR.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG AT THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING BILL IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR YEUNG UNDERTOOK TO TABLE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN JULY EACH YEAR THE FRANCHISEE’S THREE YEAR ROLLING PROJECTION OF OPERATIONAL COSTS AND NET REVENUE AND THEIR ANNUAL OPERATING COST BUDGET, AND TO MAKE A STATEMENT.
HE WILL TABLE IN OCTOBER THE ACTUAL NET REVENUE FIGURES OF THE FRANCHISEE FOR THE YEAR JUST ENDED, AND MAKE A STATEMENT ON BOTH THE FIGURES AND ANY APPLICATION FOR A TOLL INCREASE.
MR YEUNG SAID HE WOULD BRIEF THE TRANSPORT PANEL ON HIS FINDINGS, ASSESSMENTS AND CONCLUSIONS BEFORE DECIDING BY OCTOBER 31 WHETHER ANY TOLL INCREASE SHOULD BE AGREED OR WHETHER IT SHOULD BE REFERRED FOR ARBITRATION.
IT WOULD BE OPEN TO LEGCO MEMBERS TO DECIDE WHETHER OR NOT HIS FINDINGS, ASSESSMENTS AND CONCLUSIONS SHOULD BE DEBATED.
IT IS AGAINST THIS BACKGROUND THAT MR YEUNG DISAGREED THAT THE WHC’S TOLL ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM WOULD DEPRIEVE THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF THE RIGHT TO MONITOR THE PERFORMANCE OF THE FRANCHISEE.
MR YEUNG SAID THE PURPOSE OF HAVING THE TOLL ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM WAS THAT IT REPLACED THE PRESENT VAGUE REFERENCE IN EXISTING TUNNEL FRANCHISES ABOUT THE RIGHT TO RECEIVE A REASONABLE RETURN ON INVESTMENT, WITH A CLEAR, UNMISTAKABLE FRAMEWORK TN WHICH REASONABLENESS WAS QUANTIFIED.
ON THE POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES OF A WITHDRAWAL BY THE CONSORTIUM, MR YEUNG SAID THE IMMEDIATE CONSEQUENCE WAS THAT THE PROJECT WOULD BE PUT AT RISK AND WOULD CERTAINLY NOT BE READY WHEN IT WAS NEEDED.
MR YEUNG SAID: "IF THE GOVERNMENT DECIDES THAT RE-TENDERING IS UNLIKELY TO ATTRACT GOOD BIDS, OR IF IT ACTUALLY FAILED ON RENDERING TO ATTRACT GOOD BIDS, THE PROJECT MIGHT WELL HAVE TO BE FINANCED FROM PUBLIC FUNDS.
"IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN, UNDER OUR EXISTING SYSTEM FOR BUDGETARY CONTROL WE WOULD HAVE TO DEFER OR CANCEL AT LEAST $6 BILLION WORTH OF PUBLIC WORKS THAT ARE ALREADY IN THE PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME.
"THESE WOULD BE PROJECTS WHICH CANNOT OR CANNOT EASILY BE PRIVATISED, INCLUDING SCHOOLS, CLINICS, HOSPITALS, SEWERAGE IMPROVEMENT SCHEMES, UNTOLLABLE HIGHWAYS, AND SO ON.
BUT THAT IS ONLY THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG.
/"AS COMMUNITY .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 3 -
"AS COMMUNITY ASPIRATIONS BUILD UP FOR MORE INFRASTRUCTURE, FAILURE TO ATTRACT PRIVATE SECTOR INVESTMENT WOULD ADD ENORMOUS SPENDING PRESSURE ON THE PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME, TO THE POINT WHERE VERY PAINFUL CHOICES WOULD HAVE TO BE MADE," MR YEUNG SAID.
ON THE CONCERN ABOUT WHETHER THE WHC FRANCHISE WOULD SET A PRECEDENT FOR FUTURE BOT (BUILD, OPERATE AND TRANSFER) PROJECTS, MR YEUNG SAID HE WOULD BE PREPARED IN FUTURE TO CONSULT THE LEGCO TRANSPORT PANEL ON THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES BEFORE THE GOVERNMENT ENTERED INTO NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE NEXT BOT EXERCISE.
BUT A CLEAR DISTINCTION MUST BF. DRAWN BETWEEN HEARING LEGCO MEMBERS’ VIEWS ON THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF A BOT PROJECT AND ALLOWING THE GOVERNMENT TO GET ON WITH NEGOTIATING THE FRANCHISE.
"IT IS IN THE NATURE OF MANY NEGOTIATIONS THAT WE CANNOT COME BACK TO THIS COUNCIL WHILE NEGOTIATIONS ARE IN PROGRESS," HE SAID.
IN SUMMING UP, MR YEUNG SAID THE FRANCHISE CONTAINED IN THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING BILL IS GOOD FOR HONG KONG AND FAIR TO ALL CONCERNED.
"THE FRANCHISEE WILL BUILD AN ESSENTIAL $7.5 BILLION ROAD TUNNEL AT NO COST TO THE TAXPAYER.
"THE TOLL LEVELS PROPOSED, THE RATES OF RETURN EXPECTED BY THE FRANCHISEE AND THE TOLL ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM ARE ALL REASONABLE, GIVEN THE SCALE OF INVESTMENT REQUIRED AND THE LONG PAY BACK PERIOD. AND FOR THE FIRST TIME WE HAVE A MECHANISM FOR USING EXCESS PROFITS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE MOTORIST."
--------0
DRAFT AIRPORT BILL AT ADVANCED STAGE *****
THE DRAFTING OF A BILL TO ESTABLISH THE AIRPORT AUTHORITY IS AT AN ADVANCED STAGE AND THE GOVERNMENT AIMS TO INTRODUCE IT TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TN THE EARLY PART OF THE NEXT LEGISLATIVE SESSION.
THIS WAS ANNOUNCED BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON HAMISH MACLEOD, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WHILE TABLING THE ANNUAL REPORT AND AUDITED ACCOUNTS OF THE PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31 THIS YEAR.
THE REPORT SHOULD BE THE LAST ONE ISSUED BY THE PROVISIONAL BODY, MR MACLEOD SAID.
"IF ALL GOES WELL, AND AGREEMENT IS SOON REACHED WITH CHINA ON THE AIRPORT FINANCING PLAN, THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE TERMINAL BUILDING COULD BEGIN IN MID-1994 WHEN SUFFICIENT LAND WILL HAVE BEEN RECLAIMED UNDER THE SITE PREPARATION CONTRACT.
"MEANWHILE, PLANNING FOR THE EXTERNAL FINANCING OF THE AUTHORITY WILL CONTINUE," HE ADDED.
/MR MACLEOD
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
MR MACLEOD HIGHLIGHTED SOME OF THE KEY DEVELOPMENTS OF THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECT IN THE PAST YEAR:
* THE $9 BILLION SITE PREPARATION CONTRACT TO PRODUCE THE 1,248-HECTARE AIRPORT PLATFORM WAS AWARDED IN LATE NOVEMBER 1992. SO FAR, SOME 197 HECTARES OF NEW LAND HAS BEEN FORMED AND PROGRESS IS WELL ON TARGET;
* THE AUTHORITY HAS CALLED FOR, AND RECEIVED, EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR AIR CARGO, AVIATION FUEL, AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE AND AIRCRAFT CATERING SERVICES;
* DETAILED DESIGN OF THE PASSENGER TERMINAL BUILDING IS WELL IN HAND, WITH THE AIM OF PRODUCING A TERMINAL THAT IS BOTH EFFICIENT AND USER-FRIENDLY;
* FOUR CONSULTANCIES HAVE BEEN AWARDED FOR THE DESIGN OF THE INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE PLATFORM; AND
* DETAILED PROJECT CONTROL PROCEDURES HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED TO LINK ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY CLOSELY TO THE AUTHORITY’S PROJECT CONTROL BUDGET IN ORDER TO FACILITATE CLOSE MONITORING OF COSTS BY THE AUTHORITY.
- - 0 - -
NO REDUCTION IN FUNDS OR RESOURCES AFTER MERGER: SHA
**»»»»*
THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SUEN, REASSURED THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TONIGHT (WEDNESDAY) THE OBJECTIVE OF MERGING THE YAU TSIM AND MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARDS WAS NOT TO REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF PUBLIC RESOURCES TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE TWO DISTRICTS.
WINDING UP THE MOTION DEBATE ON THE AMALGAMATION, MR SUEN STATED SPECIALLY THAT THERE WOULD BE NO REDUCTION IN THE AMOUNT OF DISTRICT BOARD (DB) FUNDS THAT WOULD BE Al,LOCATED TO THE NEW DISTRICT COMPARED WITH THE COMBINED ALLOCATION FOR THE TWO DISTRICTS AT PRESENT.
AS TO ANOTHER OBJECTION RAISED BY SOME DB MEMBERS THAT THE MERGER WOULD ADVERSELY AFFECT THE SENSE OF BELONGING OF RESIDENTS, MR SUEN POINTED OUT THAT ACCORDING TO FEEDBACKS COLLECTED BY HIS STAFF ON THE GROUND, THAT SENSE OF BELONGING WAS MUCH MORE CLOSELY RELATED TO THE IMMEDIATE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF PEOPLE’S RESIDENCE.
THE RESIDENTS, HE SAID, FEEL STRONGLY ABOUT ACTIVITIES AT THE STREET BLOCK LEVEL WHICH HAVE A DIRECT BEARING ON THEIR QUALITY OF LIFE.
FOR THIS REASON, THE WIDER QUESTION OF MERGER DOES NOT FEATURE VERY MUCH IN THIS SORT OF CONSIDERATION, MR SUEN SAID.
/AS TO
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 5 -
AS TO THE ARGUMENT THAT THE MERGER WOULD BRING TOO MANY PROBLEMS TO THE NEW DISTRICT BOARD, MR SUEN NOTED THAT THE TWO DISTRICTS SHARED MANY COMMON CHARACTERISTICS SUCH AS LAND-USE, HOUSING TYPES, DENSITY OF DEVELOPMENT AND TYPES OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES.
AS SUCH, HE SAID, THEIR COMMON PROBLEMS COULD BE MORE LOGICALLY AND EFFECTIVELY DEALT WITH TOGETHER.
REGARDING THE LEVEL OF RESIDENTS’ SUPPORT FOR THE MERGER, MR SUEN SAID A NUMBER OF SURVEYS HAD BEEN CARRIED OUT BY CNTA AND GROUPS WITH DIFFERENT BACKGROUND.
WITHOUT EXCEPTION THEY ALL SHOWED THAT THE MAJORITY OF THE RESPONDENTS, OR ABOUT 60 PER CENT, HELD NO VIEWS AND WERE INDIFFERENT TO THE PROPOSAL.
OF THE REMAINING 40 PER CENT WHO EXPRESSED A VIEW, THOSE IN FAVOUR OF THE MERGER MARGINALLY OUT-NUMBERED THOSE WHO WERE AGAINST IT, MR SUEN SAID.
MR SUEN EMPHASISED THAT THE DECISION FOR THE MERGER WAS NOT TAKEN LIGHTLY, ADDING THAT THERE WERE SOME OCCASIONS WHEN THE ADMINISTRATION WAS UNABLE TO COME TO THE SAME CONCLUSIONS AS THE DISTRICT BOARDS.
"TO MY MIND IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WHEN THIS HAPPENS, WE EXPLAIN OURSELVES," HE ADDED.
EARLIER, MR SUEN EXPLAINED THE NEED TO TAKE STOCK OF THE EVOLUTION OF THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME AND TO CONSIDER ITS FUTURE DEVELOPMENT, PARTICULARLY IN RESPECT OF THE NUMBER OF DISTRICTS AND THEIR BOUNDARIES.
"THIS IS NECESSITATED BY THE SHEER DYNAMISM OF HONG KONG WHICH KEEPS IT GROWING AND EXPANDING AND WE NEED TO ENSURE THAT THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME CONTINUES TO FUNCTION SMOOTHLY AND EFFECTIVELY.
"FOR IN THE PAST 15 YEARS OR SO, WE HAD WITNESSED A LARGE-SCALE POPULATION MOVEMENT FROM THE OLD BUILT-UP URBAN AREAS TO THE NEW TOWNS.
"THE IMPACT OF POPULATION REDISTRIBUTION ON THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME IS OBVIOUS.
"TO CATER FOR THE NEEDS OF THE NEW RESIDENTS IN THE NEW TOWNS, WE HAD IN 1979 SPLIT THE THEN TAI PO DISTRICT INTO TAI PO AND NORTH DISTRICTS; IN 1985 SPLIT THE THEN TSUEN WAN DISTRICT INTO TSUEN WAN AND KWAI TSING DISTRICTS," MR SUEN SAID.
ALTHOUGH NO STEPS HAVE SO FAR BEING TAKEN TO REDRESS THE PROBLEM OF DECLINING POPULATION IN THE URBAN AREAS, HE SAID IT WAS A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE ACTION HAD TO BE TAKEN.
"MY REFERENCE TO THE NEED TO REVIEW THE NUMBER OF DISTRICTS AND THEIR BOUNDARIES WAS MADE AGAINST THIS BACKGROUND.
/"IN NOVEMBER .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 6 -
"IN NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER OF LAST YEAR, I PUT FORWARD SEVERAL PROPOSALS TO REALIGN DISTRICT BOUNDARIES FOR CONSULTATION WITH THE DISTRICT BOARDS.
"MY MAIN AREA OF CONSULTATION INCLUDED THE MERGER OF THE YAU TSIM AND MONG KOK DISTRICTS, AND OTHER PROPOSALS REALIGNING THE BOUNDARIES OF THE ISLANDS, TSUEN WAN, KWAI TSING, SAI KUNG, SHA TIN, WAN CHAI AND EASTERN DISTRICTS.
"AS A RESULT OF THIS OPEN CONSULTATION PROCESS, WE TOOK INTO ACCOUNT THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY DB MEMBERS.
"WE TOOK STOCK OF THE SITUATION TO RECONSIDER OUR POSITION VERY CAREFULLY AND WE CAME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THE TIMING WAS NOT RIPE FOR SOME OF THOSE PROPOSALS.
"HOWEVER, WE WERE CONVINCED THAT THE CASE TO MERGE THE YAU TSIM AND MONG KOK DISTRICTS WAS JUSTIFIED AND WOULD BE IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF THE POPULATION AS A WHOLE,” MR SUEN SAID.
------0-------
HK HAS A WELL-ESTABLISHED LEGAL AID SYSTEM: CS » » » » »
HONG KONG HAS ALREADY IN PLACE A WELL-ESTABLISHED SYSTEM WHEREBY LEGAL AID IS EFFICIENTLY ADMINISTERED BY THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT AND THE LEGAL PROFESSION TO CATER FOR THE NEEDS OF THE CLIENTS, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
WINDING UP THE MOTION DEBATE ON LEGAL AID MOVED BY THE HON SIMON IP, SIR DAVID SAID THE EXISTING LEGAL AID SYSTEM WAS INDEPENDENT IN PRACTICE IN THAT NEITHER THE DEPARTMENT NOR THE LEGAL ADVICE AND DUTY LAWYER SCHEMES OPERATED BY THE LEGAL PROFESSION WERE SUBJECT TO OUTSIDE INTERFERENCE.
"ANY PROBLEM ABOUT THE INDEPENDENT IMAGE OF THE LEGAL AID ADMINISTRATION IN HONG KONG IS ONE OF PERCEPTION," SIR DAVID SAID.
HOWEVER, SIR DAVID POINTED OUT THAT THE ADMINISTRATION WAS NOT IN A POSITION TO TAKE ANY FIRM VIEW ON THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF LEGAL AID ADMINISTRATION AT THIS STAGE, IN ORDER NOT TO PREJUDGE THE OUTCOME OF THE CURRENT PUBLIC CONSULTATION.
THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY MEMBERS DURING THIS DEBATE, TOGETHER WITH OTHER RESPONSES TO THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON LEGAL AID, WILL BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT BY THE ADMINISTRATION IN FORMULATING THE FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS, HE SAID.
NOTING THAT THE LEGAL PROFESSION HAD EMPHASISED THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT THE LEGAL AID ADMINISTRATION SHOULD BE PERCEIVED TO BE INDEPENDENT, SIR DAVID SAID THE INTER-DEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP, WHICH CARRIED OUT A REVIEW ON THE EXISTING LEGAL AID SYSTEM, HAD CAREFULLY CONSIDERED THREE OPTIONS TO ENHANCE THE PERCEPTION OF INDEPENDENCE OF LEGAL AID ADMINISTRATION.
/* OPTION (A) ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
* OPTION (A) IS TO ESTABLISH AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON LEGAL AID AND TO MAINTAIN LARGELY THE STATUS QUO.
* OPTION (B) IS TO ESTABLISH A NON-GOVERNMENT STATUTORY AUTHORITY FOR THE DAY-TO-DAY ADMINISTRATION OF PUBLICLY-FUNDED LEGAL AID SERVICES TO REPLACE THOSE PROVIDED BY THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT AND THE VARIOUS SCHEMES OPERATED BY THE LEGAL PROFESSION.
* OPTION (C) ENVISAGES ALSO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN INDEPENDENT STATUTORY AUTHORITY WITH RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE OVERALL MANAGEMENT OF PUBLICLY-FUNDED LEGAL AID SERVICES, BUT RETAINING THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT AND THE LEGAL ADVICE AND DUTY LAWYER SCHEMES, EFFECTIVELY AS AGENTS DISCHARGING THE AUTHORITY’S RESPONSIBILITIES.
SIR DAVID SAID WHILE OPTION (A) MIGHT NOT BE A BIG STEP FORWARD, THE OTHER TWO OPTIONS WENT A LONG WAY TOWARDS ENHANCING THE PERCEPTION OF INDEPENDENCE OF LEGAL AID ADMINISTRATION, AS THEY BOTH PROVIDED FOR THE SETTING UP OF AN INDEPENDENT STATUTORY LEGAL AID AUTHORITY.
"THE STATUTORY AUTHORITY SHOULD COMPRISE LAWYERS AND NONLAWYERS AND THIS WOULD PROVIDE GREATER OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF LEGAL AID.
THE TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY OF LEGAL AID ADMINISTRATION WOULD ALSO BE ENHANCED, SAID SIR DAVID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE MAIN DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OPTIONS (B) AND (C) WAS THAT OPTION (C) DID NOT INVOLVE THE DIS-ESTABLISHMENT OF THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT OR THE DISSOLUTION OF THE SCHEMES CURRENTLY RUN BY THE LEGAL PROFESSION.
"THEIR EXISTING ACTIVITIES WILL BE RETAINED BUT THEY WILL OPERATE UNDER THE SUPERVISION AND CONTROL OF THE NEW AUTHORITY. THEY ARE EFFECTIVELY AGENTS OF THE AUTHORITY AND ARE ACCOUNTABLE TO IT," HE SAID.
SIR DAVID SAID THE WORKING GROUP FAVOURED OPTION (C), AS IT MET THE OBJECTIVE OF ENHANCING THE INDEPENDENCE OF LEGAL AID ADMINISTRATION, AND WAS CAPABLE OF QUICKER IMPLEMENTATION WITH LESS DISRUPTION IN THE DELIVERY OF LEGAL AID SERVICES DURING ANY CHANGEOVER.
HE REFUTED ANY SUGGESTION THAT BECAUSE THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT WAS NOT INDEPENDENT OF THE GOVERNMENT, THE ADMINISTRATION OF LEGAL AID COULD NOT BE FREE FROM BIAS OR POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE BY THE ADMINISTRATION.
"THERE ARE NUMEROUS EXAMPLES IN WHICH THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT, ACTING ON BEHALF OF ITS CLIENTS, HAS SUCCESSFULLY TAKEN THE GOVERNMENT TO COURT."
/THE DEPARTMENT........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
THE DEPARTMENT IS DEFENDING THE CLIENTS DAILY AGAINST LEGAL ACTION INSTITUTED BY THE GOVERNMENT. THERE ARE EVEN CASES IN WHICH LEGAL AID HAS BEEN GRANTED BY THE DIRECTOR OF LEGAL AID TO SUE THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT ITSELF, SIR DAVID SAID.
ON CONCERNS EXPRESSED BY SOME MEMBERS THAT A PERSON SEEKING LEGAL AID FOR SUING THE GOVERNMENT, OR DEFENDING HIMSELF AGAINST CHARGES FILED BY THE GOVERNMENT, SHOULD NOT BE REPRESENTED BY THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT, SIR DAVID POINTED OUT THAT ACCORDING TO THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT’S RECENT SURVEY, NO LESS THAN 88% OF ITS CLIENTS ACTUALLY PREFERRED THE DEPARTMENT’S COUNSEL TO OUTSIDE LAWYERS TO TAKE UP THEIR CASES.
"THIS SHOWS THAT THERE IS NO LACK OF CONFIDENCE IN THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT AND ITS COMPETENCE IN DEFENDING THE CLIENTS’ INTERESTS," SAID STR DAVID.
HE ALSO HIGHLIGHTED THE PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS IF THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT WERE TO BE DIS-ESTABLISHED.
ABOLISHING THE PROFESSIONAL AND DEPARTMENTAL POSTS IN THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT WOULD INVOLVE SIGNIFICANT COSTS. SUCH SUBSTANTIAL COSTS SHOULD BE PAID AT THE EXPENSE OF OTHER SERVICES IN HONG KONG WAS A QUESTION THAT NEEDED TO BE ADDRESSED SERIOUSLY, HE SAID.
SIR DAVID ADDED THAT THERE WOULD BE A LEAD TIME IN DISESTABLISHING THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT AND IN ESTABLISHING A REPLACEMENT ORGANISATION THAT WOULD ENCOMPASS THE SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE DEPARTMENT AND THE SCHEMES OPERATED BY THE LEGAL PROFESSION.
"THERE WILL BE INEVITABLE DISRUPTION IN THESE SERVICES AND INCONVENIENCE TO USERS DURING THE TRANSITIONAL PERIOD," HE SAID.
- - 0 - -
GOVT TAKES EVERY CHANCE TO EXPLAIN POLITICAL SYSTEM TO CHINA
*****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS AND WOULD CONTINUE TO TAKE EVERY AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITY, THROUGH BOTH FORMAL AND INFORMAL CHANNELS, TO EXPLAIN TO CHINESE GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS THE OPERATION OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND THE POLITICAL SYSTEM IN HONG KONG.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR LEUNG CHIN-MAN, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON LAM KUI-SHING, IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
- 0 - -
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 9 -
HOMES FOR ELDERLY ADVISED ON FIRE SAFETY *****
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT HAS VISITED ABOUT 90 PER CENT OF 392 PRIVATE HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY AFTER THE FIRE BOMB ATTACK ON A PRIVATE HOME LAST MONTH, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, INFORMED THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON LEONG CHE-HUNG, MRS WONG SAID THE INCIDENT IN QUESTION WAS ALLEGED TO BE A CASE OF ARSON, NOT A CASE OF ’’FIRE BREAKING OUT” AS STATED TN DR LEONG’S QUESTION.
’’HOWEVER, THE ADMINISTRATION HAS ALWAYS BEEN ALERT TO THE NEED FOR FIRE SAFETY IN RESIDENTIAL HOMES ACCOMMODATING PEOPLE WITH POOR MOBILITY,” SHE SAID.
IN MAY THIS YEAR, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT ISSUED TO ALL OPERATORS OF RESIDENTIAL HOMES, INCLUDING PRIVATE CARE HOMES FOR ELDERLY PERSONS, A LETTER REMINDING THEM TO OBSERVE FIRE PREVENTION MEASURES.
THIS WILL BE RE-ISSUED FROM TIME TO TIME.
THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT WILL ALSO ADVISE OPERATORS ON ENHANCED FIRE SAFETY MEASURES AS APPROPRIATE, MRS WONG ADDED.
------0------------
PLEADINGS IN
CHINESE IN COURT EXPLAINED
*****
IT WAS A MATTER FOR THE COURT’S DISCRETION TO DECIDE WHETHER OR NOT TO PERMIT PLEADINGS TO BE IN CHINESE AND IT WOULD NOT BE APPROPRIATE FOR THE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO SPECULATE UPON THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THE COURT WOULD OR WOULD NOT EXERCISE ITS POWERS TO PERMIT PLEADINGS IN CHINESE, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON JEREMY MATHEWS, SAID.
REPLYING TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR MATHEWS SAID SECTION 5 OF THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGES ORDINANCE PROVIDED THAT PROCEEDINGS IN THE COURT OF APPEAL, THE HIGH COURT AND THE DISTRICT COURT SHOULD BE DUCTED IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE.
THERE WAS NO DEFINITION OF THE WORD ’’PROCEEDINGS” BUT IT WAS GENERALLY ACCEPTED THAT PLEADINGS WERE INCLUDED.
HE SAID BEFORE THE HIGH COURT CASE OF GAMMON BUILDING CONSTRUCTION LTD V CHO HING YIU SEPTEMBER 1988, IT HAD BEEN STANDARD PRACTICE FOR PLEADINGS TO BE IN ENGLISH.
/IN THAT ......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 10 -
IN THAT CASE, THE JUDGE HELD THAT THE COURT HAD WIDE POWERS TO PERMIT IN APPROPRIATE CIRCUMSTANCES PLEADINGS TO BE IN CHINESE.
IN DELIVERING HIS JUDGMENT, THE JUDGE MADE IT CLEAR THAT HE WAS NOT ENCOURAGING THE DEPARTURE FROM THE NORMAL USE OF ENGLISH.
IN THAT CASE, ONCE THE DOCUMENTS HAD BEEN FILED, THEY HAD TO BE TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH.
"I AM NOT AWARE OF OTHER HIGH COURT CASES IN WHICH PLEADINGS IN CHINESE HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED AND IT IS STILL THE PRACTICE FOR PLEADINGS IN THE COURT OF APPEAL, THE HIGH COURT AND THE DISTRICT COURT TO BE IN ENGLISH. ANY DEPARTURE FROM THAT PRACTICE WOULD RAISE PRACTICAL DIFFICULTIES," HE SAID.
MR MATHEWS SAID THE ADMINISTRATION WAS CURRENTLY CONSIDERING IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE JUDICIARY HOW SECTION 5 OF THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGES ORDINANCE COULD BE AMENDED TO PERMIT GREATER USE OF CHINESE IN THE COURTS.
HE SAID THIS WAS A MATTER REQUIRING CAREFUL EXAMINATION BECAUSE IT RAISED MANY PRACTICAL ISSUES.
HE NOTED THAT THERE WERE A NUMBER OF QUESTIONS THAT NEEDED TO BE ADDRESSED:
« WOULD PLEADINGS, INDICTMENTS AND NOTICES NEED TO BE IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE? IF SUCH A REQUIREMENT WAS IMPOSED, IT MIGHT BE UNNECESSARILY ONEROUS.
* IF THE COURT IS TO DECIDE WHICH LANGUAGE TO USE IN THE
PROCEEDINGS, AT WHAT STAGE OF THE PROCEEDINGS SHOULD THE
COURT MAKE THAT DECISION?
« COULD PROCEEDINGS BE CONDUCTED AND ORAL EVIDENCE BE
RECEIVED IN ONE LANGUAGE WHILST DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE BE
RECEIVED IN ANOTHER? IF NOT, REQUIRING DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE FILED WITH THE COURT TO BE TRANSLATED INTO THE LANGUAGE CHOSEN BY THE COURT FOR THE PROCEEDINGS MAY POSE PRACTICAL PROBLEMS, PARTICULARLY IN CIVIL CASES IN WHICH THE DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE COULD BE VOLUMINOUS.
* SHOULD NOTES OF PROCEEDINGS BE REQUIRED TO BE KEPT IN THE LANGUAGE IN WHICH THE PROCEEDINGS ARE CONDUCTED? SHOULD THIS HAVE A BEARING ON THE LANGUAGE USED FOR STATING CASES AND HEARING APPEALS?
MR MATHEWS POINTED OUT THAT GETTING SATISFACTORY ANSWERS TO THESE AND OTHER QUESTIONS WOULD POINT THE WAY TO PERMITTING GREATER USE OF CHINESE IN THE COURTS.
/Il .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 11
DELAY IN HIGH COURT CRIMINAL CASE FULLY EXPLAINED
*****
THE JUDGE ORDERED A STAY OF PROCEEDINGS AGAINST A DEFENDANT IN THE HIGH COURT CRIMINAL CASE 122 OF 1992 AFTER LOOKING AT THE WHOLE CASE IN THE ROUND, AND NOT ON THE GROUND OF DELAY ALONE, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON JEREMY MATHEWS, SAID.
IN HIS REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON HUANG CHEN-YA IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR MATHEWS SAID IT MIGHT BE HELPFUL TO MEMBERS IF HE SET OUT THE BACKGROUND OF CASE.
THE DEFENDANT IN THE CASE REFERRED TO WAS CHARGED WITH 13 COUNTS OF CONSPIRACY TO COMMIT OFFENCES AGAINST THE THEFT ORDINANCE, AND ONE COUNT OF CONSPIRACY TO DEFRAUD THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING.
THESE CHARGES, WHICH INVOLVED A BANK, COVERED THE PERIOD BETWEEN DECEMBER 1983 AND NOVEMBER 1985.
IN EARLY 1985, PROBLEMS IN THE BANK CAME TO THE ATTENTION OF THE THEN COMMISSIONER OF BANKING, WHO CONDUCTED AN INVESTIGATION INTO IRREGULARITIES INTO SOME OF THE BANK’S TRANSACTIONS.
THE COMMISSIONER REFERRED THE CASE TO THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT IN JANUARY 1986.
THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION STARTED AN INVESTIGATION THAT MONTH.
HOWEVER, OF PARAMOUNT AND OVERRIDING IMPORTANCE WAS THE INTERESTS OF DEPOSITORS AND SHAREHOLDERS, WHO WOULD SUFFER IF IT BECAME KNOWN PREMATURELY THAT THERE WAS AN INVESTIGATION IN PROGRESS.
THUS THE INVESTIGATION WAS COVERT AND, OF NECESSITY, SLOWER THAN IF IT HAD BEEN UNDERTAKEN OPENLY.
CHARGES WERE EVENTUALLY LAID AGAINST THE DEFENDANT IN OCTOBER 1988. A RETURN DATE WAS FIXED FOR A COMMITTAL HEARING IN JANUARY 1990.
HOWEVER, THE DEFENDANT THEN MADE VARIOUS APPLICATIONS FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW IN THE HIGH COURT, WHICH LED TO APPEALS TO THE COURT OF APPEAL AND THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
AS A RESULT OF THE DEFENDANT’S APPLICATIONS AND APPEALS (ALL OF WHICH WERE ULTIMATELY UNSUCCESSFUL), THE COMMITTAL FOR TRIAL WAS DELAYED FOR OVER TWO YEARS UNTIL APRIL 1992.
AN INDICTMENT WAS FILED LATER THAT MONTH AND THE TRIAL WAS EVENTUALLY SET FOR APRIL 1993.
IN JANUARY THIS YEAR THE DEFENDANT MADE AN APPLICATION BEFORE THE TRIAL JUDGE FOR A STAY OF PROCEEDINGS ON THE BASIS THAT A TRIAL WOULD CONSTITUTE AN ABUSE OF PROCESS AND THAT THERE HAD BEEN A DEPRIVATION OF HIS RIGHT TO A TRIAL WITHOUT UNDUE DELAY UNDER THE BILL OF RIGHTS.
/THE DEFENDANT .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 12 -
THE DEFENDANT CLAIMED THAT DURING THE DELAY HE HAD DEVELOPED DEMENTIA, AND AS A RESULT HE WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO MAKE FULL ANSWER AND DEFENCE TO THE CHARGES. THIS APPLICATION WAS VIGOROUSLY OPPOSED BY THE PROSECUTION.
THE JUDGE FOUND THAT THERE WERE DELAYS FROM THE TIME WHEN THE IRREGULARITIES IN THE BANK'S TRANSACTIONS CAME TO THE ATTENTION OF THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING UNTIL THE DATE WHEN THE TRIAL WAS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN.
THESE INCLUDED THE PERIOD BETWEEN THE BANK’S POSITION FIRST COMING TO THE ATTENTION OF THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING IN EARLY 1985 AND HIS REPORTING OF THE POSSIBLE CRIMINAL ASPECTS HIS SUBSEQUENT INVESTIGATION HAD UNCOVERED TO THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT IN JANUARY 1986; A DELAY DUE TO THE SLOW PROGRESS OF THE INITIAL PART OF THE INVESTIGATION; AND A DELAY CAUSED BY THE UNSUCCESSFUL ATTEMPT TO EXTRADITE A CO-DEFENDANT.
THE JUDGE FOUND THAT THE DEFENDANT’S MENTAL CONDITION HAD SEVERELY DETERIORATED OVER THE YEARS SO THAT THE DEFENDANT COULD NOT HAVE A FAIR TRIAL, HE SAID.
"AS TO WHETHER THE DELAYS WERE JUSTIFIED, THAT WAS THE QUESTION AT ISSUE BEFORE THE JUDGE AND ON WHICH HE HAS MADE HIS DECISION AFTER HEARING EVIDENCE AND ARGUMENTS ON BOTH SIDES. IT WOULD NOT BE PROPER FOR ME TO COMMENT ON THE JUDGE'S DECISION AND HIS REASONS FOR IT," MR MATHEWS STRESSED.
MR MATHEWS SAID THE EXPERT MEDICAL WITNESSES CALLED BY THE CROWN WERE FULLY KNOWLEDGEABLE OF THE CASE. THE PROSECUTION HAD A NUMBER OF EXPERTS WHO EXAMINED THE DEFENDANT BEFORE THE TRIAL TO ASSESS HIS PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CONDITION.
WHILE PREPARING FOR THE TRIAL, THEY HAD FULL ACCESS TO THE REPORTS OF THE DEFENDANT’S MEDICAL EXPERTS.
"IN THE HEARING OF THE DEFENDANT’S STAY OF PROCEEDINGS APPLICATION, THE CROWN’S EXPERTS WERE EXAMINED AND CROSS-EXAMINED; THEY GAVE THEIR EVIDENCE IN A PROFESSIONAL, OBJECTIVE AND COMPETENT MANNER.
"THE DEFENDANT’S EXPERTS WERE EXAMINED AND VIGOROUSLY CROSS-EXAMINED. THERE WAS A FULL AIRING OF THE EVIDENCE RELATING TO THE DEFENDANT’S CONDITION," HE SAID.
MR MATHEWS SAID THE COMMERCIAL CRIMES UNIT OF THE PROSECUTIONS DIVISION OF HIS CHAMBERS DEALT WITH COMPLEX COMMERCIAL CRIME CASES.
IN APPROPRIATE CASES, EXPERTS WERE RETAINED TO HELP THE INVESTIGATION AND PROSECUTION OF THOSE CASES. OFTEN THESE EXPERTS INCLUDE EXPERIENCED FORENSIC ACCOUNTANTS.
WHEN MEDICAL ADVICE WAS REQUIRED, THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY WAS ASKED TO RECOMMEND SUITABLE EXPERTS, EITHER IN HONG KONG OR OVERSEAS.
IN SUMMARY, SUITABLE EXPERTS WERE AVAILABLE TO THE PROSECUTION AND ARE USED WHEN NEEDED, HE ADDED.
/HE SAID .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
HE SAID THE COMMERCIAL CRIMES UNIT IN THE PROSECUTIONS DIVISION WAS ESTABLISHED IN RESPONSE TO A NEED TO HAVE EXPERIENCED AND COMPETENT LAWYERS DEDICATED TO PROSECUTE COMPLEX COMMERCIAL CASES.
"THE UNIT IS STAFFED BY LAWYERS WITH THE NECESSARY EXPERIENCE AND COMPETENCE, AND I AM SATISFIED THAT IT IS WELL EQUIPPED TO DEAL WITH MAJOR CASES THAT COME WITHIN ITS AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY.
"THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS AND I ARE FULLY ALIVE TO THE NEED TO ENSURE THAT CASES ARE DEALT WITH EXPEDITIOUSLY, TO AVOID THE RISK OF A PROSECUTION BEING HALTED BY REASON OF DELAY," HE EMPHASISED.
- - 0 - -
SAFETY OF SCAFFOLDING REGULATED *****
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID ACCIDENTS INVOLVING COLLAPSE OF SCAFFOLDING ON CONSTRUCTION SITES AND CAUSING SERIOUS INJURIES OR FATALITIES SELDOM OCCURRED.
FROM 1990 TO THE END OF JUNE THIS YEAR, THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT RECORDED TWO FATALITIES CAUSED BY THE COLLAPSE OF BAMBOO SCAFFOLDS.
STATISTICS ON INJURIES ARE SUBSUMED UNDER DIFFERENT HEADINGS IN THE DEPARTMENT’S RECORDS SUCH AS "FALL OF PERSONS" AND "FALL OF OBJECTS".
"NO STATISTICS SPECIFICALLY RELATED TO COLLAPSE OF SCAFFOLDS ARE AVAILABLE TO INDICATE THE NUMBER OF SUCH ACCIDENTS OR TO DETERMINE WHETHER THEY ARE ON THE INCREASE," MR LEUNG SAID IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MRS SELINA CHOW IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE SAFETY OF SCAFFOLDS IS REGULATED UNDER THE CONSTRUCTION SITES (SAFETY) REGULATIONS OF THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ORDINANCE.
IT REQUIRES ALL SCAFFOLDS TO BE FIXED, SECURED AND REGULARLY INSPECTED TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS.
APART FROM REGULAR INSPECTIONS, THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ALSO CARRIED OUT A SPECIAL INSPECTION AND ENFORCEMENT CAMPAIGN ON SCAFFOLDS DURING APRIL TO JUNE THIS YEAR.
A SIMILAR OPERATION WILL BE MOUNTED LATER
ON THE EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY FRONT, MR LEUNG SAID A CODE OF PRACTICE ON BAMBOO SCAFFOLD WOULD BE PUBLISHED SHORTLY TO HELP THE INDUSTRY COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS.
MOREOVER, SEMINARS AND TRAINING COURSES TO ENABLE EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES TO IDENTIFY UNSAFE ACTS OR CONDITIONS WORKING WITH SCAFFOLDINGS HAVE BEEN ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL.
/A PRESS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 14 -
A PRESS RELEASE IS NORMALLY ISSUED AFTER A TYPHOON OR INCLEMENT WEATHER TO REMIND CONTRACTORS TO ENSURE THAT THEIR SCAFFOLDS ARE IN SAFE WORKING CONDITIONS.
MR LEUNG ADDED THAT AN ANNOUNCEMENT OF PUBLIC INTEREST STRESSING THE IMPORTANCE OF SCAFFOLD SAFETY WOULD ALSO BE BROADCAST ON TELEVISION SOON.
0
ECOLOGICAL MITIGATION MEASURES FOR NEW AIRPORT
******
ECOLOGICAL MITIGATION MEASURES SUCH AS MANGROVE REPLANTING AND TRANSPLANTING SEAGRASS ARE RECOMMENDED IN THE NEW AIRPORT MASTER PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA).
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).
MR EASON SAID A SUPPLEMENTARY EIA FOCUSING ON THE PROPOSED REMOVAL OF THE SHA LO WAN HEADLAND, WITH PARTICULAR REGARD TO THE CHINESE WHITE DOLPHIN, RECOMMENDED THAT PRESSURE WAVE TRANSMISSIONS FROM BLASTING SHOULD BE MINIMISED BY CONTAINING EXPLOSIONS IN THE DRILL HOLES.
OTHER MITIGATION MEASURES WERE THAT SMALL NON-LETHAL "SEAL BOMBS" SHOULD BE USED TO DRIVE MARINE FAUNA FROM THE CONSTRUCTION AREA BEFORE BLASTING. BLASTING OPERATIONS SHOULD CEASE IF DOLPHINS OR OTHER MAMMAL SPECIES WERE OBSERVED IN THE AREA.
MR EASON SAID THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR OTHER CONSTRUCTION WORKS ON NORTH LANTAU WERE ALSO REQUIRED TO CONDUCT EIA STUDIES. ANY ADDITIONAL MITIGATION MEASURES RECOMMENDED BY THESE STUDIES WOULD BE IMPLEMENTED AS FAR AS PRACTICABLE.
------0-------
ACTION AGAINST TAXI MALPRACTICES INTENSIFIED *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS INTENSIFYING PROSECUTIONS AGAINST TAXI MALPRACTICES AND DEPLOYING PLAINCLOTHES POLICE PATROLS, ESPECIALLY IN AREAS WHERE SUCH OFFENCES ARE KNOWN TO BE FREQUENTLY COMMITTED.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ZACHARY WONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
UNDER THE ROAD TRAFFIC (PUBLIC SERVICE VEHICLES) REGULATIONS, IT IS AN OFFENCE FOR A TAXI DRIVER TO SOLICIT PASSENGERS OR TO REFUSE TO BE HIRED, CARRYING A MAXIMUM FINE OF $5,000 AND IMPRISONMENT FOR SIX MONTHS.
/IN 1992..........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 15 -
IN 1992, A TOTAL OF 321 PROSECUTIONS WERE INSTITUTED AGAINST TAXI DRIVERS FOR REFUSING TO BE HIRED AND/OR FOR SOLICITING PASSENGERS.
IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1993, THE NUMBER OF PROSECUTIONS FOR THESE TWO OFFENCES WAS 433, REPRESENTING A 130 PER CENT INCREASE OVER THE LAST SIX MONTHS OF 1992.
IN ADDITION, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAD BEEN URGING TAXI ASSOCIATIONS NOT TO ENGAGE IN SUCH MALPRACTICES AND WOULD BE MOUNTING GREATER PUBLICITY TO ENCOURAGE MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO REPORT TAXI MALPRACTICES, HE ADDED.
FEE REVISION CAREFULLY PHASED ♦ * ♦ ♦ »
THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY, MR DONALD TSANG, SAID THE GOVERNMENT CAREFULLY PHASED THE INTRODUCTION OF REVISED FEES DURING THE COURSE OF THE YEAR IN ORDER TO REDUCE THE IMPACT ON THE PUBLIC.
THERE ARE MORE THAN 5,200 FEES CURRENTLY CHARGED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON TAM YIU-CHUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR TSANG SAID THE FEES WERE NORMALLY SET AT LEVELS SUFFICIENT TO COVER THE COSTS OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED.
"THEY ARE THEREFORE SUBJECT TO ANNUAL REVISION TO ENSURE THAT THEIR REAL VALUE IS MAINTAINED," HE SAID.
NINE TYPES OF FEES THIS YEAR. THEY ARE: AND CHARGES HAVE BEEN INCREASED SINCE APRIL
DEPARTMENT FEES
AGRICULTURE & FISHERIES RENTAL OF TEMPORARY WHOLESALE MARKET
BUILDINGS & LANDS COPYING OF LAND RECORDS k MISC FEES
CIVIL ENGINEERING LABORATORY TESTING FEES
CENSUS & STATISTICS FEES FOR PROVIDING TRADE STATISTICS AND MISC SERVICES
EDUCATION HIRING CHARGES FOR ACCOMMODATION IN SCHOOLS
CITY & NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION HIRING CHARGES FOR COMMUNITY HALLS AND FACILITIES
/IMMIGRATION .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 16 -
IMMIGRATION
INDUSTRY
TRADE
RE-ENTRY PERMIT AND MISC FEES
FEES FOR HK LABORATORY ACCREDITATION SCHEME
TEXTILE LICENCES AND MISC FEES
ANCHORAGE PLANS OFF TUEN MUN FAR ADVANCED
*****
THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, SAID PLANS TO ESTABLISH AN IMMIGRATION ANCHORAGE OFF TUEN MUN WERE FAR ADVANCED.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HOWARD YOUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR ASPREY SAID: ”WE HOPE TO BE ABLE TO PROVIDE THE RESOURCES FOR IT TO COME INTO OPERATION NEXT YEAR.”
HE SAID THE RESOURCES REQUIRED WERE ABOUT $1M CAPITAL EXPENDITURE, AND $4M FOR YEAR RECURRENT EXPENDITURE.
THE GOVERNMENT ESTIMATES THAT THERE WILL BE A 39 PER CENT REDUCTION IN VESSEL MOVEMENTS IN THE MA WAN CHANNEL WHEN THE ANCHORAGE COMES INTO OPERATION. THIS APPROXIMATELY EQUALS 220 VESSEL MOVEMENTS THROUGH THE CHANNEL.
------0----------
PROSECUTIONS TAKEN AGAINST INDECENT FILM POSTERS
******
THE GOVERNMENT TOOK OUT FIVE PROSECUTIONS AGAINST INDECENT FILM POSTERS LAST YEAR, THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, SAID.
THIS HAD RESULTED IN THREE CONVICTIONS INVOLVING TWO POSTERS. ANOTHER THREE CASES ARE STILL PENDING COURT HEARINGS, MR SO ADDED.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ERIC LI KA-CHEUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR SO SAID OF THE THREE CONVICTIONS, ONE FILM DISTRIBUTOR WAS FINED $20,000 AND TWO THEATRE OPERATORS WERE FINED $20,000 AND $10,000 RESPECTIVELY.
NONE OF THESE FIVE CASES ORIGINATED FROM PUBLIC COMPLAINTS, HE SAID.
BETWEEN JANUARY 1991 AND JUNE THIS YEAR, 72 FILM POSTERS WERE SUBMITTED TO THE OBSCENE ARTICLES TRIBUNAL FOR CLASSIFICATION.
/OF THEM, ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 17 -
OF THEM, 18 WERE SUBMITTED BY THE TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY, INCLUDING FIVE BROUGHT TO THE AUTHORITY’S NOTICE FROM PUBLIC COMPLAINTS; FIVE BY THE POLICE; AND 49 BY FILM DISTRIBUTORS.
AND OUT OF THE 72 POSTERS, ONE WAS CLASSIFIED AS OBSCENE (CLASS III) AND 56 AS INDECENT (CLASS II).
MR SO ALSO NOTED THAT THE AVERAGE TIME TAKEN BETWEEN THE LODGING OF A COMPLAINT AND THE FILING OF A PROSECUTION WAS ABOUT SIX WEEKS.
--------0-----------
COMPANY LAW GOVERNS QUALIFICATIONS OF AUDITORS ******
THE GOVERNMENT IS NOT AWARE OF ANY INSTANCES IN THE PAST TWO YEARS IN WHICH ANY SMALL, LOCAL ACCOUNTING FIRMS HAVE BEEN CONSIDERED UNSUITABLE TO ACT AS AUDITORS FOR LISTED COMPANIES, THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, SAID.
ALSO, THE HONG KONG SOCIETY OF ACCOUNTANTS HAS NOT RECEIVED ANY EXPRESSION OF VIEWS FROM THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION (SFC) OR THE STOCK EXCHANGE OF HONG KONG LTD (SEHK) CONCERNING ITS MEMBER ACCOUNTANTS, HE SAID.
IT HAS NOT RECEIVED ANY COMPLAINTS FROM ITS MEMBER ACCOUNTANTS FOR HAVING BEEN SO CONSIDERED BY THE SFC OR SEHK, HE ADDED.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHIM PUI-CHUNG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR CARTLAND SAID THE ELIGIBILITY OF ACCOUNTANTS TO ACT AS AUDITORS FOR LISTED COMPANIES WAS PROVIDED FOR UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE AND THE LISTING RULES.
"THERE IS NO FURTHER MECHANISM OF ASSESSING THE QUALIFICATIONS OF SUCH ACCOUNTANTS," HE ADDED.
SEHK DOES NOT HAVE ANY ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS UNDER THE LISTING RULES IN RESPECT OF THE QUALIFICATIONS OF AUDITORS OF LISTED COMPANIES INCORPORATED IN HONG KONG.
FOR LISTED COMPANIES INCORPORATED OUTSIDE HONG KONG, THE LISTING RULES PROVIDE, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE ANNUAL ACCOUNTS MUST BE AUDITED BY A PERSON, FIRM OR COMPANY EITHER QUALIFIED UNDER THE PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS ORDINANCE OR ACCEPTABLE TO THE EXCHANGE AS HAVING AN INTERNATIONAL NAME AND REPUTATION AND WHICH IS A MEMBER OF A RECOGNISED BODY OF ACCOUNTANTS.
/18........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 18
TEAM SET UP TO DETECT TENANCY ABUSES
******
A TEAM HAS RECENTLY BEEN FORMED BY THE HOUSING AUTHORITY TO CARRY OUT SURPRISE CHECKS ON FLATS, SOMETIMES OUTSIDE OFFICE HOURS, TO DETECT TENANCY ABUSES, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY)
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MRS ELSIE TU IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR EASON SAID THIS APPROACH WOULD BE REVIEWED LATER THIS YEAR TO SEE WHETHER THE OPERATION SHOULD BE EXPANDED AND IF SO HOW.
HE SAID THE AUTHORITY WAS MINDFUL OF THE NEED TO KEEP A CLOSE WATCH ON THE SITUATION OF TENANCY ABUSES AND HAD STEPPED UP TENANCY ENFORCEMENT IN ALL ESTATES.
"IT NEEDS HOWEVER TO STRIKE A CAREFUL BALANCE BETWEEN ESSENTIAL ENFORCEMENT AND CHECKING UP ON ITS TENANTS TO THE POINT THAT MIGHT BE REGARDED AS HARASSMENT," HE SAID.
MR EASON SAID THE PROBLEM OF TENANCY ABUSES WAS ALMOST NONEXISTENT IN NEWLY COMPLETED ESTATES ALTHOUGH SOME IRREGULARITIES DID EXIST IN OLDER ESTATES.
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SPECIAL AREA FOR HEAVY WATER-CONSUMING INDUSTRIES
*****
ABOUT 12 HECTARES OF LAND IN A SPECIAL INDUSTRIES AREA IN TUEN MUN WILL BE RESERVED FOR HEAVY WATER INDUSTRIES SUCH AS THE TEXTILE, BLEACHING, DYEING AND FINISHING INDUSTRIES TO SERVE BOTH NEW UNDERTAKINGS AS WELL AS EXISTING ESTABLISHMENTS WHICH MIGHT WISH TO MOVE THERE.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON JAMES TIEN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
MR EASON NOTED THAT VICTORIA HARBOUR WOULD BE DECLARED A WATER CONTROL ZONE UNDER THE WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE IN PHASES FROM LATE 1994 TO 1997.
HE SAID RECLAMATION AND SERVICING WORKS THERE WERE SCHEDULED TO START NEXT YEAR FOR COMPLETION IN 1998.
MR EASON SAID FACTORIES IN THE MAIN INDUSTRIAL AREAS OF KWUN TONG, TSUEN WAN AND KWAI CHUNG COULD COMPLY WITH THE ORDINANCE BY SIMPLY ADOPTING CLEANER PRODUCTION PRACTICES INCLUDING WASTE REDUCTION AND SEGREGATION, CHEMICAL SUBSTITUTION AND WATER CONSERVATION MEASURES, REPLACING OBSOLETE PRODUCTION PROCESSES, AND BUILDING COMMUNAL TREATMENT FACILITIES.
THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT INTEND TO INITIATE OR ORGANISE RELOCATION ARRANGEMENTS, MR EASON SAID, ADDING THAT IT WOULD BE FOR OPERATORS TO DECIDE WHETHER TO RELOCATE THEMSELVES.
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/19 .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
COURSES TO IMPROVE TEACHERS’ PROFICIENCY IN ENGLISH
*****
THE INSTITUTE OF LANGUAGE IN EDUCATION IS PLANNING A SERIES OF COURSES FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS WHO ARE USING OR WILL USE ENGLISH AS THE MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION.
THE 16-WEEK FULL-TIME COURSE WILL AIM TO IMPROVE TEACHERS’ PROFICIENCY IN ENGLISH, AND THEIR SKILLS IN USING ENGLISH TO TEACH OTHER SUBJECTS.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON SIMON IP IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID 81 TEACHERS WOULD ATTEND THE FIRST SUCH COURSE SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY NEXT YEAR.
"THEREAFTER, TWO COURSES WILL BE ORGANISED EACH ACADEMIC YEAR, WITH A TOTAL TARGET INTAKE OF 200 TEACHERS A YEAR,” HE SAID.
AS REGARDS ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW RECRUITS, MR LEUNG NOTED THAT THE EDUCATION REGULATIONS HAD ALREADY STIPULATED THE MINIMUM ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS FOR TEACHERS.
WHETHER MORE STRINGENT LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS SHOULD BE STIPULATED FOR NEW TEACHERS IS ONE OF THE ISSUES ON WHICH ADVICE FROM THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TEACHER EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS IS AWAITED, HE SAID.
- - 0 - -
STANDARD TIME TO BE MAINTAINED ******
HONG KONG ADOPTED ITS STANDARD TIME (GREENWICH MEAN TIME +8) THROUGHOUT THE YEAR AFTER A FOUR-MONTH CONSULTATION EXERCISE IN 1988 AND THEREAFTER A CLEAR MAJORITY HAS PREFERRED TO MAINTAIN THE STATUS QUO, THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SUEN, SAID.
AND SINCE THEN, THERE HAS BEEN NO PUBLIC DEMAND TO REVIEW THE PRACTICE, HE SAID IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MRS PEGGY LAM IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR SUEN ALSO STRESSED THAT THE DECISION TO MAINTAIN GMT+8 WAS TAKEN AFTER VIEWS WERE WIDELY SOUGHT FROM DISTRICT BOARDS, GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC FOLLOWING CHINA’S INTRODUCTION OF SUMMER TIME IN APRIL 1986 AS A DAYLIGHT SAVING MEASURE.
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/20
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 20 -
COURSES AND FACILITIES IN PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS UNDER REGULAR REVIEW *****
THERE IS NO PLAN FOR AN OVERALL REVIEW OF THE COURSES AND FACILITIES IN PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, INFORMED THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON TIK CHI-YUEN, MR LEUNG SAID THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAD SINCE 1986 REVISED THE SYLLABUSES OF SEVEN PRACTICAL AND TECHNICAL SUBJECTS AND DEVELOPED FOUR NEW SUBJECT SYLLABUSES IN PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS.
THREE SUBJECT SYLLABUSES ARE BEING REVIEWED AT PRESENT.
IN ADDITION, THE CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, FOLLOWING A REVIEW IN 1991/92, PRODUCED DRAFT GUIDELINES ON THE CURRICULAR FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF SCHOOLS, INCLUDING PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS, FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION.
HOWEVER, NO SUGGESTIONS WERE RECEIVED FOR CHANGING THE EXISTING PROPORTION OF PRACTICAL AND TECHNICAL CONTENT IN THE CURRICULUM OFFERED BY PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS.
THE SECRETARY ALSO SAID PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS WERE PROVIDED WITH A WIDE RANGE OF SPECIAL ROOMS AND WORKSHOPS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THEIR PRACTICE-ORIENTED CURRICULUM.
AS STUDENTS IN THESE SCHOOLS SPENT MUCH OF THE SCHOOL DAY IN SPECIAL ROOMS/WORKSHOPS, THE OPERATION OF FLOATING CLASSES THEREFORE MADE EFFICIENT USE OF SCHOOL SPACE WITH NO LOSS OF EDUCATIONAL EFFECTIVENESS.
SUBJECT TO RESOURCES BEING AVAILABLE, HE SAID, THE GOVERNMENT WOULD EMBARK ON THE FIRST PHASE OF A PROGRAMME TO UPGRADE THE FACILITIES IN 12 PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS IN 1994/95 TO THE LATEST STANDARD OF PROVISION.
MR TIK ALSO ASKED ABOUT THE REASON FOR MAINTAINING THE RATIO OF GRADUATE TEACHERS TO NON-GRADUATE TEACHERS AT 1:1 FOR PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS.
IN REPLY, THE SECRETARY EXPLAINED THAT THE RATIO WAS PROPOSED IN JUNE 1987 BY THE WORKING PARTY ON THE RESTRUCTURING OF PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS WHICH COMPRISED REPRESENTATIVES OF THE HONG KONG PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS COUNCIL AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
"THE CALCULATION WAS BASED ON THE NUMBER OF PERIODS IN THE TIMETABLE ALLOCATED TO SUBJECTS TAUGHT BY NON-GRADUATE TECHNICAL TEACHERS," MR LEUNG SAID.
"THE PROPOSAL WAS SUPPORTED BY ALL COUNCIL MEMBERS AND SUBSEQUENTLY APPROVED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
"THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT IS NOW REVIEWING THE STAFFING STRUCTURE IN PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS IN THE LIGHT OF THE EXPANSION OF SENIOR SECONDARY AND SIXTH FORM PLACES IN THESE SCHOOLS," HE ADDED.
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/21 .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
21
COMPLAINT FIGURES AGAINST CSD
*****
THE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS RECEIVED AGAINST THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAD SHOWED A DECREASING TREND IN THE PAST THREE YEARS.
THE NUMBER WAS 197 IN 1990, 167 IN 1991 AND 166 LAST YEAR.
THE FIGURES WERE CONTAINED IN A WRITTEN REPLY BY THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, TO A QUESTION BY THE HON JAMES TO KUN-SUN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
AMONG THOSE COMPLAINT CASES IN THESE THREE YEARS, A TOTAL OF 34 CASES WERE FOUND SUBSTANTIATED AFTER INVESTIGATION. THE NUMBER WAS 12 IN 1990, EIGHT IN 1991 AND 14 LAST YEAR.
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS WERE TAKEN AGAINST STAFF IN THESE SUBSTANTIATED CASES. 23 OFFICERS WERE WARNED (SEVEN IN 1990, SIX IN 1991 AND 10 LAST YEAR). DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS WERE TAKEN AGAINST THE OTHER 11 OFFICERS (FIVE IN 1990, TWO IN 1991 AND FOUR LAST YEAR).
COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE USE OF UNNECESSARY FORCE, MISMANAGEMENT, AND MISCONDUCT OF STAFF TOPPED THE LIST OF COMPLAINTS RECEIVED.
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COMPLAINTS ABOUT WEAK WATER PRESSURE
*****
COMPLAINTS ABOUT WEAK HYDRAULIC PRESSURE IN WATER SUPPLY HAVE BEEN RECEIVED FROM 17 NEW TERRITORIES VILLAGES IN THE PAST SIX MONTHS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR WORKS, MR JAMES BLAKE, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON ZACHARY WONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR BLAKE SAID MOST OF THESE 17 VILLAGES WERE LOCATED AT THE EXTREMITIES AND THE PROBLEM WAS PRIMARILY CAUSED BY RAPID DEVELOPMENT OVER THE RECENT YEARS RESULTING IN THE EXISTING SUPPLY SYSTEMS BEING OVERLOADED.
’’REMEDIAL MEASURES IN THE FORM OF REPLACING OR DUPLICATING THE EXISTING WATER MAINS, OR SWITCHING TO A DIFFERENT SUPPLY SOURCE AS APPROPRIATE ARE BEING OR WILL BE CARRIED OUT TO IMPROVE THE SITUATION,” HE SAID.
/22 .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 22 -
MUNICIPAL COUNCILS RESPONSIBLE FOR REFUSE COLLECTION *****
COLLECTION OF REFUSE IS THE STATUTORY RESPONSIBILITY OF THE REGIONAL AND URBAN COUNCILS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON MARTIN BARROW IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR EASON SAID THE PILOT SCHEME STARTED BY THE REGIONAL COUNCIL ON MAY 1 THIS YEAR IN THE TAI PO DISTRICT ON THE CONTRACTING OUT OF WASTE COLLECTION SERVICES WOULD BE EVALUATED AT THE END OF THIS YEAR TO CONSIDER WHETHER IT SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO OTHER DISTRICTS.
THE COLLECTION OF ANIMAL CARCASSES HAD BEEN CONTRACTED OUT SINCE JULY 1991, HE SAID, ADDING THAT THE URBAN COUNCIL WAS CURRENTLY STUDYING THE FEASIBILITY OF CONTRACTING OUT REFUSE COLLECTION.
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ADEQUATE SECONDARY SCHOOL PLACES IN YUEN LONG
»»♦♦♦*
THERE ARE SUFFICIENT SECONDARY SCHOOL PLACES IN YUEN LONG, INCLUDING TIN SHUI WAI, TO ACCOMMODATE STUDENTS WHO HAVE RECENTLY MOVED TO THE DISTRICT, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID.
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON TANG SIU-TONG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), MR LEUNG NOTED THAT A SMALL NUMBER OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS WHO HAD MOVED TO TIN SHUI WAI HAD NOT BEEN ABLE TO TRANSFER IMMEDIATELY TO A SCHOOL TN THE DISTRICT.
THIS IS DUE TO PRACTICAL DIFFICULTIES IN TRANSFERRING THEM TOWARDS THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR, HE SAID.
HOWEVER, MR LEUNG POINTED OUT THAT THE DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE COULD HELP TO ARRANGE INTERVIEWS FOR THESE STUDENTS WITH SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT WITH A VIEW TO SECURING A TRANSFER BY SEPTEMBER.
HE ALSO CALLED ON PARENTS OF STUDENTS WHO WISHED TO SEEK ADMISSION TO SCHOOLS IN YUEN LONG TO APPROACH THE DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICE.
"THE OFFICE PROVIDES DETAILED INFORMATION ON SCHOOLS, SUCH AS THEIR FACILITIES AND THE CURRICULUM OFFERED, IN THE DISTRICT TO HELP PARENTS SELECT SCHOOLS WHICH THEY WOULD LIKE THEIR CHILDREN TO ENTER.
"THEY CAN THEN APPLY DIRECT TO THE SCHOOLS OF THEIR CHOICE," MR LEUNG ADDED.
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/23 .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 23 -
MORE STRINGENT MEASURES GOVERNING USE OF LIFTING APPLIANCES *****
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, HAS PROPOSED MORE STRINGENT REGULATORY MEASURES OVER THE SAFE USE OF LIFTING APPLIANCES AND LIFTING GEAR ON CONSTRUCTION SITES.
MOVING A RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (LIFTING APPLIANCES AND LIFTING GEAR) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993 IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), HE SAID THE MAIN REQUIREMENTS WERE:
* LIFTING APPLIANCES MUST BE EXAMINED ANNUALLY BY COMPETENT EXAMINERS;
♦ AN AUTOMATIC SAFE LOAD INDICATOR MUST BE INSTALLED ON A CRANE;
♦ PERSONS OPERATING CRANES MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER AND MUST POSSESS A VALID CERTIFICATE ISSUED BY THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY OR BY ANY OTHER PERSON SPECIFIED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR; AND
* A COMPETENT EXAMINER FOR LIFTING APPLIANCES AND LIFTING GEAR MUST BE A PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER REGISTERED UNDER THE ENGINEER REGISTRATION ORDINANCE IN A RELEVANT DISCIPLINE SPECIFIED BY THE COMMISSIONER.
MR LEUNG APPRECIATED THAT CONTRACTORS MIGHT NEED TIME TO COMPLY WITH THE PROPOSED PROVISIONS ON EMPLOYMENT OF QUALIFIED CRANE OPERATORS AND THE INSTALLATION OF SAFE OVERLOAD INDICATOR.
HE SAID: "WE PROPOSE THAT THE AMENDMENTS SHOULD COME INTO EFFECT ON THREE DIFFERENT DATES.
"THE REQUIREMENT OF A CRANE OPERATOR TO POSSESS A VALID CERTIFICATE ISSUED BY THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY UNDER SECTION 11 OF THE AMENDMENT REGULATION SHOULD COME INTO EFFECT ONE YEAR AFTER APPROVAL BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN ORDER TO ALLOW TIME TO TRAIN UP SUFFICIENT NUMBER OF QUALIFIED OPERATORS.
"THE REQUIREMENT OF AN AUTOMATIC SAFE LOAD INDICATOR TO BE FITTED ON CRANES UNDER SECTION 9 SHOULD COME INTO OPERATION SIX MONTHS AFTER APPROVAL BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, TO ALLOW SUFFICIENT TIME FOR INSTALLATION."
FOR OTHER PROVISIONS, MR LEUNG SAID THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSED TO BRING THEM INTO EFFECT IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL HAD GIVEN ITS APPROVAL.
/24 .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
REVISED RATE OF LEVY TO MEET PNEUMOCONIOTIC COMPENSATION * * * * *
THE RATE OF LEVY ON THE CONSTRUCTION AND QUARRYING INDUSTRIES WILL BE INCREASED BY PHASES TO ENABLE THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS COMPENSATION FUND BOARD TO HAVE SUFFICIENT FUNDS TO MEET ITS LONG-TERM COMMITMENTS.
IN MOVING A RESOLUTION IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID THE FUND WOULD ACCUMULATE A BIG DEFICIT BY 1994 IF THE CURRENT RATE OF LEVY OF 0.02 PER CENT REMAINED UNCHANGED.
"THEREFORE, AFTER CONSULTATION WITH THE FUND BOARD, WE PROPOSE TO INCREASE THE RATE OF LEVY ON THE CONSTRUCTION AND QUARRYING INDUSTRIES BY PHASES, INITIALLY TO 0.3 PER CENT IN 1993.
"A SECOND PHASE OF INCREASE WILL BE REQUIRED SOMETIME NEXT YEAR,” HE SAID.
THE RESOLUTION TO VARY THE RATE OF LEVY SHALL COME INTO EFFECT ON AUGUST 22 THIS YEAR. THE REVISED RATE WILL APPLY TO ALL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS THE TENDERS OF WHICH ARE SUBMITTED ON OR AFTER THIS DATE.
SUBSTANTIAL CHANGES HAVE BEEN MADE TO THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE IMPROVED BENEFITS TO PNEUMOCON IOTICS.
THE MOST SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS ARE TO INTRODUCE MONTHLY COMPENSATION PAYMENTS PAYABLE UNTIL A PNEUMOCONIOTIC’S DEATH AND TO ALLOW PNEUMOCONIOTICS WHO HAVE PREVIOUSLY RECEIVED A LUMP SUM COMPENSATION TO RECEIVE MONTHLY PAYMENTS IF THEY SUFFER ADDITIONAL INCAPACITY.
IT IS ESTIMATED THAT SOME 2,000 PNEUMOCONIOTICS WHO WERE DIAGNOSED DURING 1981 TO 1993 WOULD BE ABLE TO BENEFIT UNDER THE NEW SCHEME.
- - 0 - -
LEVY ON NON-FOOD IMPORTS TO BE REDUCED
*****
THE AD VALOREM LEVY (AVL) ON NON-FOOD IMPORTS WILL BE REDUCED FROM 0.05 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF THE GOODS TO 0.035 PER CENT FROM OCTOBER 1 IN THE FACE OF SUBSTANTIAL GROWTH OF THE EXTERNAL TRADE IN RECENT YEARS.
THE LEVY REDUCED WAS SPECIFIED IN THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (REGISTRATION) REGULATIONS UNDER THE IMPORT AND EXPORT ORDINANCE.
MOVING THE RESOLUTION, THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MRS REGINA IP, SAID THE REDUCTION SHOULD BE WELCOMED BY TRADERS AS WELL AS MANUFACTURERS WHO RELIED ON IMPORTED RAW MATERIALS AND COMPENENTS FOR THEIR PRODUCTION.
/THE SAVINGS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 25 -
THE SAVINGS TO IMPORTERS ARE ESTIMATED TO BE SOME $90 MILLION IN 1993/94 AND IN EXCESS OF ONE BILLION DOLLARS OVER A PERIOD OF FIVE YEARS.
THE AVL ON FOOD IMPORTS WILL BE KEPT AT THE FLAT RATE OF $5 PER DECLARATION.
THE REDUCTION WILL HAVE THE EFFECT OF REDUCING THE GOVERNMENT’S SUBVENTION TO THE TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (TDC) AS THE SUBVENTION IS CALCULATED BY REFERENCE TO THE NET AVL COLLECTED.
HOWEVER, THE REDUCTION WILL NOT CREATE ANY DIFFICULTIES FOR THE TDC GIVEN ITS SUCCESS IN GENERATING ITS OWN INCOME, MRS IP SAID.
SHE SAID A SIGNIFICANT ADDITIONAL AMOUNT WOULD BE MADE AVAILABLE TO THE INDUSTRIAL SUPPORT PROGRAMME, ABOUT $180 MILLION IN 1994/95.
THE PROPOSED REDUCTION OF THE AVL ON IMPORTS AND THE CONSEQUENTIAL REDUCTION OF THE SUBVENTION TO THE TDC AS FROM 1994/95 WAS FULLY SUPPORTED BY THE TDC, REPRESENTATIVES OF THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY AND INDUSTRY LEADER, AS A MOVE THAT WOULD BENEFIT TRADE AND INDUSTRY, SHE ADDED.
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AMENDMENTS TO CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL BY-LAWS PASSED ******
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) PASSED A RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL BY-LAWS.
MOVING THE RESOLUTION, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG, SAID THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE 1993 ENACTED ON JUNE 30 ENABLED THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL COMPANY LIMITED TO INSTALL AUTOMATIC TOLL COLLECTION EQUIPMENT, AS APPROVED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT, AND TO MAKE BY-LAWS TO REGULATE THE USE OF SUCH FACILITIES.
HE SAID THE AMENDMENTS NOW BEING MADE TO THE BY-LAWS, WHICH COVERED SUCH MATTERS AS THE ISSUE OF ELECTRONIC TOLL PASSES, ACCESS TO AND PASSAGE THROUGH AUTOTOLL BOOTHS, AND SIGNAGE, WERE NECESSARY FOR THE DAY-TO-DAY OPERATION OF THE AUTOTOLL SYSTEM.
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/26 .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 26 -
REDRESS SYSTEM TO BE IMPROVED
*****
THE INCLUSION OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS (COMAC) WILL ENHANCE PUBLIC CONFIDENCE IN THEM, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD, SAID.
SIX PUBLIC BODIES, INCLUDING THE TWO COUNCILS, ARE PROPOSED TO BE ADDED TO THE LIST OF ORGANISATIONS SUBJECT TO THE COMMISSIONER’S MONITORING UNDER THE COMAC (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993 INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
FOUR OF THE BODIES - MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION, KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION, THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION AND THE HOUSING AUTHORITY - HAVE AGREED TO THE PROPOSED INCLUSION.
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL, SIR DAVID NOTED THAT THE URBAN AND REGIONAL COUNCILS HAD EXPRESSED OPPOSITION TO THE PROPOSAL.
HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT AGREE WITH THEIR VIEWS.
THE TWO COUNCILS PROVIDE ESSENTIAL MUNICIPAL SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC WHICH HAVE DIRECT AND SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THEIR DAILY LIVELIHOOD, HE SAID.
’’FOR THEM TO BE EXEMPTED FROM COMAC’S INDEPENDENT MONITORING WOULD CLEARLY BE AGAINST THE WISHES AND INTERESTS OF THE PUBLIC,” HE ADDED.
SIR DAVID SAID TO HAVE AN EFFECTIVE SYSTEM, IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT NOT ONLY THE EXECUTIVE AGENCIES OF THE COUNCILS - THE URBAN SERVICES AND REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENTS - WERE INCLUDED, BUT ALSO THE PRINCIPAL BODIES.
’’THIS IS TO ENSURE THAT COMAC’S RECOMMENDATIONS INVOLVING THE COUNCILS COULD BE EFFECTIVELY PURSUED,” HE EXPLAINED.
IN ADDITION, HE POINTED OUT THAT ELECTED MEMBERS’ ACCOUNTABILITY TO THEIR CONSTITUENTS SHOULD NOT BE CONFUSED WITH THE PROVISION OF AN INDEPENDENT REDRESS SYSTEM.
’’VOTING ELECTED MEMBERS OUT OF OFFICE CANNOT IN ITSELF HELP THE AGGRIEVED INDIVIDUAL.
”COMAC CAN HELP THE COMPLAINANT SEEK PROPER AND IMMEDIATE REDRESS THROUGH HIS INVESTIGATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS MADE TO THE COUNCIL,” HE SAID.
SIR DAVID STRESSED THAT THERE WAS NO QUESTION OF THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS BEING COMPROMISED.
ANOTHER PROPOSAL OF THE BILL IS DIRECT PUBLIC ACCESS TO THE COMMISSIONER.
’’THIS WILL MAKE THE COMAC OFFICE MORE CONVENIENT TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC,” HE SAID.
/AT PRESENT, ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 27 -
AT PRESENT, A COMPLAINT TO THE COMMISSIONER HAS TO ROUTE THROUGH AND BE REFERRED BY A NON-OFFICIAL LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBER.
THE THIRD KEY CHANGE PROPOSED TO THE REDRESS SYSTEM IS THAT COMAC WILL BE EMPOWERED TO PUBLISH CASE REPORTS WHICH HE CONSIDERS MAY BE OF PUBLIC INTEREST.
"THIS WILL HELP PROMOTE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF AND CONFIDENCE IN THE COMAC SYSTEM, AND WILL CERTAINLY PROVIDE A USEFUL CHECK FOR THE DEPARTMENTS AND PUBLIC BODIES,” SIR DAVID SAID.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID THE BILL REFLECTED THE OUTCOME OF A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON THE OPERATION OF THE COMAC OFFICE.
”1 AM SURE THE PUBLIC WILL WELCOME THE ABOVE PROPOSALS AS A POSITIVE STEP TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT TO ENHANCE THE IMAGE AND EFFECTIVENESS OF THE COMAC REDRESS SYSTEM,” HE SAID.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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STABILITY IN TRADE TIES REASSURED
*****
GIVEN THE UNPREDICTABILITY OF THE INTERNATIONAL CLIMATE, THE FOREIGN CORPORATIONS BILL WILL PLAY A USEFUL ROLE OF ENSURING STABILITY AND CONTINUITY IN HONG KONG’S TRADING AND COMMERCIAL RELATIONS WITH OTHER TERRITORIES.
THE COMMENT WAS MADE BY THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, AS HE MOVED THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE BILL SEEKS TO ALLAY CONCERN OVER THE CORPORATE STATUS IN HONG KONG OF A BODY ESTABLISHED UNDER THE LAWS OF A FOREIGN TERRITORY WHICH IS NOT RECOGNISED BY THE UNITED KINGDOM AS A STATE.
MR CARTLAND SAID CONCERN ABOUT THE LEGAL CAPACITY OF CORPORATIONS FROM TERRITORIES NOT RECOGNISED BY THE UK HAD BEEN EXPRESSED PARTICULARLY BY THE LEGAL PROFESSION.
’’THE INTRODUCTION OF THE BILL IS INTENDED TO ALLAY SUCH CONCERN AND TO GIVE PRIMACY TO COMMERCIAL REALITY,” HE SAID.
THE SECRETARY EMPHASISED THAT THE BILL CLARIFIED THE STATUS OF FOREIGN CORPORATIONS IN THE LIGHT OF COMMERCIAL REALITIES AND HENCE REASSURED AND ENCOURAGED COMPANIES IN THE COMMERCIAL AND FINANCIAL WORLD.
"IT DOES NOT HAVE ANY BEARING ON THE RECOGNITION OF STATES WHICH IS CLEARLY AND ABSOLUTELY A MATTER OF FOREIGN POLICY FOR THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT," HE ADDED.
DERATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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/28........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 1993
- 28 -
LEGCO PASSES LEGAL AID MOTION
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL PASSED A MOTION ON THE SYSTEM OF ADMINISTRATION OF LEGAL AID SERVICES AT ITS LAST MEETING FOR THIS SESSION AFTER MIDNIGHT (WEDNESDAY).
NINE MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE DEBATE PROPOSED BY THE HON SIMON IP. THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD, REPLIED FOR THE GOVERNMENT.
ANOTHER MOTION MOVED BY THE HON RONALD ARCULLI TO AMEND THE DECLARATION OF NUMBER OF PROPOSED DISTRICTS AND SPECIFICATION OF DISTRICT NAMES ORDER 1993 WAS DEFEATED.
ALSO PASSED WERE TWO MOTIONS MOVED BY THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, UNDER THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ORDINANCE AND THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) ORDINANCE RESPECTIVELY.
A MOTION UNDER THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL ORDINANCE MOVED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG, AND ANOTHER MOTION MOVED BY THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MRS REGINA IP, UNDER THE IMPORT AND EXPORT ORDINANCE WERE PASSED.
ANOTHER MOTION MOVED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON, UNDER THE INTERPRETATION AND GENERAL CLAUSES ORDINANCE WAS ALSO PASSED.
TN ADDITION, EIGHT BILLS WERE PASSED.
THEY ARE: EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING BILL; HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; BUILDINGS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; SHIPPING AND PORT CONTROL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993; DUTIABLE COMMODITIES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1992; INLAND REVENUE (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) BILL 1993 AND EXCHANGES (SPECIAL LEVY) (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993.
THREE BILLS WERE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS. THEY ARE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993, FOREIGN CORPORATIONS BILL AND IMMIGRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1993. DEBATES ON THEM WERE ADJOURNED.
- - 0 -
Received by PRQ
on 26 JUL 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, JUJY 22, 1993
CONTENTS
PAGE NO
NINTH ROUND OF TALKS ON ELECTION ARRANGEMENTS
GOVERNOR WILL HAVE EXTENSIVE DISCUSSIONS IN LONDON GOVT SUPPORTS CHARTER FOR YOUTH ......................
GOVERNOR MEETS DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS .....................
PHASED PROGRAMME TO APPLY FOR BN(O) PASSPORTS CONSUMER PRICE INDICES FOR JUNE ......................
COMPANIES REGISTRY FIGURES FOR FIRST HALF YEAR RELEASED
UNITED NATIONS SANCTIONS AGAINST HATTI ......................
CONTROLS ON IMPORTS AND EXPORTS OF OZONE DEPLETING SUBSTANCES ..................................
GOODS FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS REVISED ELECTORAL REGISTRATION FOR 93 PUBLISHED .....................
LABOUR DEPARTMENT GIVES ADVTCF TO JOB-SEEKERS
APPEALS TO SOCIAL SECURITY BOARD ON THE RTSF DOCTORS INVITED TO JOIN SCHOOL MEDICAL SCHEME 25 PASS MEDTCAI LICENTIATE EXAM .............................
262 YOUNG HEALTH LEADERS TRAINED ............................
MUSIC ADMINISTRATOR MEETS STAFF AND PARENTS FINANCE COMMITTEE MEFTING ..................
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
NINTH ROUND OF TALKS ON ELECTION ARRANGEMENTS *****
THE BRITISH SIDE AND THE CHINESE SIDE HAVE AGREED THAT THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE, SIR ROBIN MCLAREN, BRITISH AMBASSADOR TO CHINA, AND THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE, MR JIANG ENZHU, VICE FOREIGN MINISTER OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA, WILL HOLD THEIR NINTH ROUND OF TALKS IN BEIJING ON 16 AND 17 AUGUST 1993 ON THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS IN HONG KONG IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION, THE PRINCIPLE OF CONVERGENCE WITH THE BASIC LAW AND THE RELEVANT AGREEMENTS AND UNDERSTANDINGS REACHED BETWEEN BRITAIN AND CHINA.
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GOVERNOR WILL HAVE EXTENSIVE DISCUSSIONS TN LONDON
*****
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, WILL BE HAVING EXTENSIVE DISCUSSIONS WHEN HE VISITS LONDON NEXT WEEK.
MR PATTEN WILL HAVE MEETINGS WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS, MR DOUGLAS HURD, MINISTERS AND OTHER OFFICIALS THERE.
’’THE PURPOSE OF MY MEETING WITH DOUGLAS HURD AND OTHER OFFICIALS IS TO HAVE A REGULAR EXCHANGE ON HONG KONG, TO REVIEW THE PROGRESS THAT WE’VE BEEN MAKING IN THE TALKS ON POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT, AND TO AGREE ON THE STRATEGY FOR THE FUTURE.
’’BUT OBVIOUSLY, I’D LIKE TO TAKE REGULAR OPPORTUNITIES OF MEETING MR HURD AND OTHER SENIOR OFFICIALS AND MINISTERS, AND I’LL BE HAVING QUITE EXTENSIVE DISCUSSIONS WHEN I AM IN LONDON," THE GOVERNOR TOLD REPORTERS AFTER OPENING THE CHARTER FOR YOUTH PROMULGATION CONFERENCE TODAY (THURSDAY).
MR PATTEN WILL TRAVEL TO LONDON ON JULY 27. HE WILL MEET MR HURD ON JULY 29 BEFORE STARTING HIS ANNUAL LEAVE. HE WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON AUGUST 31.
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THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
2
GOVT SUPPORTS CHARTER EOR YOUTH
* * * * *
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, PROCLAIMES THAT THE GOVERNMENT SUBSCRIBES TO THE CHARTER FOR YOUTH AND WILL WORK TO ENSURE THAT THE GOALS SET OUT IN THE CHARTER ARE MET.
SPEAKING AT THE CHARTER’S PROMULGATION CONFERENCE TODAY (THURSDAY), MR PATTEN SAID YOUNG PEOPLE MUST BE GIVEN '['HE HOPE, SKILLS AND OPPORTUNITIES TO MAKE HONG KONG’S NEXT 50 YEARS AS SUCCESSFUL AS THEIR PARENTS HAD MADE THE LAST 50 YEARS.
ALMOST ONE-THIRD OF THE POPULATION IS YOUNG PEOPLE AGED BETWEEN 10 AND 29.
’’THEY ARE THE GENERATION THAT WILL LIVE THEIR LIVES AND LEAD THEIR CAREERS VERY LARGELY IN THE HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION,” HE SAID.
’’ONLY THOSE COMMUNITIES THAT RESPOND DYNAMICALLY TO ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENTS OFFER THEIR CITIZENS THE GREATEST OPPORTUNITIES FOR FULFILMENT, AND, IN RETURN, BENEFIT FROM THE COMMITMENT AND THE SUPPORT OF THEIR CITIZENS,” MR PATTEN SAID.
THE CHARTER FOR YOUTH SETS OUT THE PRINCIPLES THAT WILL BE
FOLLOWED TO ALLOW YOUNG PEOPLE TO DEVELOP THEMSELVES AS INDIVIDUALS AND IN THEIR ROLE IN THE COMMUNITY, AND THE PRINCIPLES FOR THE
COMMUNITY TO PROVIDE SUPPORT TO YOUNG PEOPLE.
MR PATTEN SAID THE COMMISSION ON YOUTH HAD WORKED HARD TO
ENSURE THAT THE PRINCIPLES SET OUT IN THE CHARTER MEET THE SOCIAL
ASPIRATIONS AND THE NEEDS OF YOUNG PEOPLE:
» FAMILY WELFARE POLICY WILL AIM TO PRESERVE AND STRENGTHEN THE FAMILY TO PROVIDE THE CARE AND THE EXAMPLE OF LOVING RELATIONSHIPS THAT YOUNG PEOPLE NEED.
* HONG KONG CAN BE PROUD OF THE EXTENT OF EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY AVAILABLE TO YOUNG PEOPLE, BUT THERE IS MUCH TO BE DONE TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF TEACHING AT PRIMARY AND SECONDARY LEVEL.
* A TREMENDOUS RANGE OF VOLUNTARY AND FULL-TIME SOCIAL WORK ORGANISATIONS PROVIDE VARIETIES OF OUTLETS AND ACTIVITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.
EARLIER, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMISSION ON YOUTH, MR ERIC LI KA-CHEUNG, CALLED ON MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, ESPECIALLY YOUNG PEOPLE, TO SUPPORT THE DOCUMENT WHICH HAS AN IMPORTANT BEARING ON THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF YOUTHS IN HK.
’’NOW THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAS TAKEN THE LEAD TO SUPPORT THE DOCUMENT BY BECOMING THE FIRST SUBSCRIBER, WE HOPE THE CHARTER WOULD BE IMPLEMENTED TO THE FULL.
/"WITH THE ......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
- 3 -
WITH THE SOLIDARITY AND UNFAILING EFFORTS OF ALL SUBSCRIBERS, WE WILL BUILD OUR YOUNG PEOPLE INTO MATURE AND RESPONSIBLE CITIZENS, READY TO FACE LIFE CHALLENGES AHEAD OF THEM," HE SAID.
MORE THAN 260 ORGANISATIONS AND SOME 150 INDIVIDUALS, INCLUDING GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS, LEGISLATORS AND PROMINENT PUBLIC PERSONALITIES, HAVE ALSO PLEDGED THEIR SUPPORT FOR THE CHARTER.
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GOVERNOR MEETS DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS ******
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, TODAY (THURSDAY) MET A GROUP OF DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS TO HEAR THEIR VIEWS ON HONG KONG’S POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT AND A RANGE OF LIVELIHOOD ISSUES.
MR PATTEN SAID HE WAS GRATEFUL FOR THEIR VIEWS AND SAID IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT SUCH DIALOGUE CONTINUE.
"IT IS VITAL IN AN OPEN SOCIETY LIKE HONG KONG THAT THE GOVERNMENT LISTEN TO ALL STRANDS OF PUBLIC OPINION.
"ALTHOUGH THERE HAS BEEN STRONG MAJORITY SUPPORT IN THE COMMUNITY FOR THE GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSALS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS AND THE THROUGH TRAIN, IT IS IMPORTANT TO LISTEN TO OTHER VIEWS."
MR PATTEN CONGRATULATED THE GROUP ON THEIR RECENT VISIT TO PEKING WHERE THEY MET CHINESE OFFICIALS.
HE SAID SUCH MEETINGS WERE IMPORTANT IN KEEPING THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT IN TOUCH WITH THE FULL RANGE OF HONG KONG OPINION.
HE ADDED THAT PERHAPS THE DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS WOULD AGREE THAT CHINESE OFFICIALS MIGHT FIND IT USEFUL TO MEET THE MANY OTHER POLITICAL GROUPS IN HONG KONG, INCLUDING THE UNITED DEMOCRATS OF HONG KONG, WITH WHICH THEY MIGHT NOT HAVE AN IDENTITY OF VIEWS.
THE DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS PRESENTED THEIR VIEWS ON A RANGE OF LIVELIHOOD ISSUES AND THE GOVERNOR UNDERTOOK TO CONSIDER THESE AND RESPOND IN WRITING.
HE ALSO UNDERTOOK TO LET THE DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS HAVE A
SUMMARY OF PUBLISHED PUBLIC OPINION POLLS IN RECENT MONTHS.
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Z4.........
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
PHASED PROGRAMME TO APPLY FOR BN(O) PASSPORTS
*****
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY) THE DETAILED ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE PHASED PROGRAMME FOR ELIGIBLE PERSONS TO APPLY FOR BN(O) PASSPORTS.
IN ORDER TO ENSURE ALL HONG KONG BRITISH DEPENDENT TERRITORIES CITIZENS (BDTCS) WHO WISH TO CONTINUE TO TRAVEL ON BRITISH PASSPORTS BEYOND 1997 WILL RECEIVE BRITISH NATIONAL (OVERSEAS) (BN(O)) PASSPORTS BEFORE JULY 1, 1997, THE BRITISH PARLIAMENT HAD ON JULY 20, THIS YEAR APPROVED THE HONG KONG (BRITISH NATIONALITY) (AMENDMENT) ORDER 1993 WHICH IMPOSES CUT-OFF DATES FOR BN(O) PASSPORT APPLICATIONS ACCORDING TO AGE GROUPS.
THE CUT-OFF DATES AS SPECIFIED IN THE 1993 ORDER ARE AS FOLLOWS:
PHASE YEAR OF BIRTH OF BDTCS FINAL DATE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS
1 1967 TO 1971 OCTOBER 30, 1993
2 1962 TO 1966 MARCH 31, 1994
3 1957 TO 1961 AUGUST 31, 1994
4 1947 TO 1956 FEBRUARY 28, 1995
5 PRIOR TO 1947 JUNE 30, 1995
6 1972 TO 1976 OCTOBER 31, 1995
7 1977 TO 1981 MARCH 30, 1996
8 1982 TO 1986 JUNE 29, 1996
9 1987 TO 1991 SEPTEMBER 30, 1996
10 1992 TO 1995 DECEMBER 31, 1996
11 1996 MARCH 31, 1997
12 1997 (BEFORE JULY 1) SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS BORN BETWEEN 1967 AND 1971 WHO BELONG TO THE FIRST PHASE MUST SUBMIT THEIR APPLICATIONS ON OR BEFORE OCTOBER 30, THIS YEAR.
ONLY IN SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES WILL AN APPLICATION MADE AFTER THE RELEVANT FINAL DATE BE ACCEPTED.
THOSE WHO DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE RELEVANT CUT-OFF DATES WILL NOT BE ABLE TO TRAVEL ON BRITISH PASSPORTS BEYOND 1997.
TO SAVE TIME IN QUEUING UP AT IMMIGRATION OFFICES, ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS ARE ADVISED TO SEND IN THEIR APPLICATIONS BY POST OR MAKE USE OF THE DROP-IN BOX SERVICE.
DROP-IN BOXES ARE INSTALLED AT THE IMMIGRATION HEADQUARTERS AND BRANCH OFFICES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.
ONLY BDTCS WHO ARE NOT HOLDING PERMANENT IDENTITY CARDS, WHO HAVE LOST THEIR PREVIOUS PASSPORTS, OR WHO NEED THE PASSPORT FOR URGENT TRAVEL SHOULD APPLY IN PERSON. THOSE ALREADY HOLDING BN(O) PASSPORTS NEED NOT APPLY AGAIN.
/HONG KONG........
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
5 -
HONG KONG BDTCS LIVING, WORKING OR STUDYING ABROAD, ARE ALSO REQUIRED TO OBSERVE THE CUT-OFF DATES IF THEY WANT TO APPLY FOR A BN(O) PASSPORT.
HOWEVER, THEY ARE NOT REQUIRED TO RETURN TO HONG KONG FOR THEIR APPLICATIONS. THEY SHOULD SUBMIT THEIR APPLICATIONS TO THE NEAREST BRITISH PASSPORT ISSUING OFFICE EITHER BY POST OR IN PERSON. THE REQUIRED OVERSEAS APPLICATION FORMS ARE OBTAINABLE FROM THOSE OFFICES.
TO ENSURE THAT ALL ELIGIBLE PERSONS ARE AWARE OF THE ARRANGEMENTS AND THE CUT-OFF DATES, AN INTENSIVE PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN HAS ALREADY BEEN LAUNCHED BOTH IN HONG KONG AND OVERSEAS.
THE GOVERNMENT IS ALSO CONSIDERING SETTING UP AN APPEAL PANEL TO ADVISE THE GOVERNOR ON THOSE LATE APPLICATIONS WHICH HAVE BEEN REJECTED BY THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT.
AS PROVIDED BY THE 1993 ORDER, PERSONS WHO ARE NATURALISED OR REGISTERED AS HONG KONG BDTCS AFTER THEIR RESPECTIVE CUT-OFF DATES WILL BE GIVEN AN ADDITIONAL THREE MONTHS WITHIN WHICH THEY MAY APPLY FOR REGISTRATION AS BN(O)S.
TO ENSURE THAT ALL BN(O) PASSPORT APPLICATIONS CAN BE FINALISED BEFORE 1997, THE ORDER ALSO PRESCRIBES THAT APPLICATIONS FOR NATURALISATION AND REGISTRATION AS HONG KONG BDTCS MUST BE MADE ON OR BEFORE MARCH 31, 1996. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
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CONSUMER PRICE INDICES FOR JUNE *****
THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) IN JUNE WAS 8.6% HIGHER THAN IN THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR, ACCORDING TO FIGURES RELEASED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THIS WAS NEARLY THE SAME AS HIE CORRESPONDING INCREASE OF 8.5% IN MAY.
COMMENTING ON THE LATEST CPI FIGURES, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, SAID CONSUMER PRICE INFLATION HAD STABILISED IN RECENT MONTHS.
"ALTHOUGH FOOD PRICES HAD RISEN FASTER IN JUNE, THERE WERE LESS RAPID PRICE INCREASES FOR A NUMBER OF OTHER ITEMS. IT IS ENCOURAGING TO SEE THAT THE MODERATION IN CONSUMER PRICE INFLATION WAS NOT NARROWLY BASED," HE SAID.
"THE YEAR-ON-YEAR RATE OF INCREASE IN THE CPI(A) AVERAGED 8.5% IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993. THIS IS LOWER THAN OUR FORECAST OF 9.5% FOR THE YEAR AS A WHOLE" HE ADDED.
/THE CPI(B) .......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
6
THE CPI(B) AND THE HANG SENG CPI WERE HIGHER BY 8.7% AND 9.5% RESPECTIVELY IN JUNE THAN IN THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR. THE CORRESPONDING INCREASES IN MAY WERE 8.8% AND 9.8%.
THE SLOWER YEAR-ON-YEAR RATES OF INCREASE IN THE CPI(B) AND THE HANG SENG CPI IN JUNE THAN IN MAY WAS MAINLY DUE TO MORE MODERATE INCREASES IN THE RENT FOR PRIVATE DWELLINGS AND CHARGES FOR MEALS AT RESTAURANTS, WHICH MORE THAN OFFSET THE EFFECT OF HIGHER PRICES OF FRESH VEGETABLES.
THE COMPOSITE CPI, WHICH WAS COMPILED BASED ON THE COMBINED EXPENDITURE PATTERN OF HOUSEHOLDS COVERED BY THE THREE CPIS, SHOWED AN INCREASE OF 8.8% IN JUNE OVER THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR, WHICH WAS ALSO MARGINALLY SLOWER THAN THE INCREASE OF 8.9% IN MAY.
COMPARING JUNE 1993 WITH JUNE 1992, RELATIVELY SLOWER INCREASES IN PRICES WERE RECORDED FOR DURABLE GOODS (1.6% IN THE CPI(A) AND 1.5% IN THE CPI(B)); FUEL AND LIGHT (3.2% AND 3.1%); MISCELLANEOUS GOODS (7.3% AND 6.6%); FOOD EXCLUDING MEALS AT RESTAURANTS (7.3% AND 6.7%); AND CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR (7.4% AND 8.0%).
ON THE OTHER HAND, RELATIVELY FASTER INCREASES IN PRICES WERE RECORDED FOR HOUSING (12.4% IN THE CPI(A) AND 12.9% IN THE CPI(B)); ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO (9.6% AND 8.9%); AND TRANSPORT (9.0% AND 8.3%).
AS FOR MEALS AT RESTAURANTS AND SERVICES, THEIR CORRESPONDING INCREASES WERE 8.5% AND 8.4% IN THE CPI(A) AND 8.5% AND 7.7% IN THE CPI(B).
COMPARING JUNE 1993 WITH MAY 1993, THE CPI(A) AND CPI(B) INCREASED BY 1.1% AND 0.8% RESPECTIVELY. THIS COMPARISON WAS, HOWEVER, AFFECTED BY SEASONAL FACTORS.
IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993, THE CPI(A) WAS, ON AVERAGE, HIGHER BY 8.2% THAN IN THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR. THE CORRESPONDING FIGURE FOR THE CPI(B) WAS 8.7%.
IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, THE CPI(A) AND CPI(B) WERE, ON AVERAGE, HIGHER BY 8.5% AND 9.0% RESPECTIVELY THAN IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1992.
FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDING JUNE 1993, THE CPI(A) AND CPI(B) WERE, ON AVERAGE, HIGHER BY 8.8% AND 9.3% RESPECTIVELY THAN IN THE PRECEDING 12-MONTH PERIOD.
SEASONALLY ADJUSTED SERIES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR THE INDICES. THE DESEASONALISED CPI(A) AND CPI(B) INCREASED AT AN AVERAGE RATE OF 0.9% AND 0.8% RESPECTIVELY PER MONTH DURING THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JUNE 1993.
/THE CONSUMER .......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX REPORT
MORE DETAILS ARE GIVEN IN THE "CONSUMER PRICE INDEX REPORT" FOR JUNE 1993, WHICH IS AVAILABLE AT $12 A COPY FROM:
* THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, HONG KONG; OR
* THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI 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 INDICES, PLEASE TELEPHONE THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON 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 .......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
8
Table 1 Consumer Price Indices and Rates of Increase for June 1993 (Oct. 89 - Sep. 90 = 100)
Comoonent CPI (A) CPI(B) Hang Sena CPI Ccmoosite CPI
Index for Jun 93 % change over Jun 92 Index for Jun 93 % change over Jun 92 Index for Jun 93 % change oyer Jun 92 Index for Jun 93 % change _ over Jun 92
Food 134.6 +7.9 135.3 +7.8 134.5 +8.2 134.8 +7.9
Meals bought away fran heme 140.2 +8.5 140.0 +8.5 137.5 +9.3 139.5 +8.7
Food, excluding meals bewght away firm hone 129.0 +7.3 128.7 +6.7 129.3 +6.4 129.0 OU +6.9
Housing 146.7 +12.4 147.7 +12.9 149.6 +13.9 148.0 +13.0
Fuel and light 119.7 +3.2 119.1 +3.1 119.4 +3.5 119.4 +3.2
Alcoholic drinks and tobacco 177.0 +9.6 167.3 +8.9 163.2 +8.8 171.6 +p.3
Clothing and footwear 129.1 +7.4 130.8 +8.0 141.7 +9.5 134.1 +8.4
Durable goods 109.1 +1.6 108.7 +1.5 114.7 +4.0 110.6 +2.3
Miscellaneous goods 123.7 +7.3 121.8 +6.6 121.1 +6.5 122.3 +6.8
Transport 136.4 +9.0 135.3 +8.3 135.5 +7.8 135.7 +8.4
Services 138.4 +8.4 135.5 +7.7 129.9 +6.5 134.7 +7.6
All items 136.0 +8.6 135.9 +8.7 137.1 +9.5 136.3 +8.8
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 averaae monthly expenditure of S2.500-S9.999 in 1989/90. The CPJ(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 ai the expenditure pattern of the next 10% of urban households, which had an average monthly expenditure of 817,500-837,499 in 1989/90.
Whereas the CPI (A). CPI (B) and Hana Seng CPI are based on the expenditure patterns of groups of households with different magnitudes of household expenditure, the Ccmposite CPI is ccmoiled based on the expenditure pattern of all these households taken together. Thus, while the CPI (A), CPI (B) and Hang Seng CPI shew 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.
/TABLE 2 .......
9
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
Table 2 Consumer Price Indices for January 3991 - June 1993 (Oct. 89 - Sep. 90 = 100)
Year/month CPI(A) CPI(B) Hana Sena 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
February 132.4 132.2 132.0 132.2
March 132.0 132.2 133.1 132.4
April 133.5 133.9 134.5 133.9
May 134.5 134.8 136.3 135.1
June 136.0 135.9 137.1 136.3
/CHART 1 .......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
10
Chart 1 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in CPI(A)
Chart 2 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in CPI(B)
/CHART 3 .......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
11
Chart 3 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in Hang Seng CPI
Chart 4 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in Composite CPI
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/12........
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
- 12 -
COMPANIES REGISTRY FIGURES FOR FIRST HALF YEAR RELEASED
*****
THE ACTING REGISTRAR OF COMPANIES, MR A H PATEL, TODAY (THURSDAY) RELEASED FIGURES INDICATING INCREASES OF ACTIVITY IN MOST AREAS FOR THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF THIS YEAR BY COMPARISON WI H THE SAME PERIOD OF 1992 FOR THE COMPANIES REGISTRY.
THE COMPANIES REGISTRY FIGURES SHOWED THAT THE TOTAL NUMBER OF COMPANIES ON THE REGISTER AT THE END OF JUNE 1993 AS COMPARED WITH THE TOTAL NUMBER AT THE END OF DECEMBER 1992 HAD INCREASED BY 8.8% FROM 358,129 TO 389,688.
THE NUMBER OF NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1993 HAD INCREASED 26% FROM 26,472 TO 33,177 AS COMPARED WITH THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD OF 1992.
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF OVERSEA COMPANIES WHICH HAD ESTABLISHED A PLACE OF BUSINESS IN HONG KONG UNDER PART XI OF THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE AT THE END OF JUNE 1993 AS COMPARED WITH THE TOTAL NUMBER AT THE END OF DECEMBER 1992 INCREASED BY 4.4% FROM 3,193 TO 3,334.
THE NUMBER OF NEW OVERSEA COMPANIES ESTABLISHING A PLACE OF BUSINESS IN HONG KONG UNDER PART XI DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1993 WAS 224, A DECREASE OF 12% COMPARED WITH THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1992.
NO SEPARATE STATISTICS ARE MAINTAINED ON HOW MANY OVERSEA COMPANIES INCORPORATE LOCAL SUBSIDIARIES OR TAKE UP A MAJORITY SHAREHOLDING IN A HONG KONG COMPANY.
IN THE FIRST HALF YEAR OF 1993 EXISTING COMPANIES INCREASED THEIR NOMINAL CAPITAL BY $19,392 MILLION, A DECREASE OF 11% COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD OF 1992, WHILE THE NOMINAL CAPITAL OF NEW COMPANIES INCORPORATED DURING JANUARY - JUNE 1993 INCREASED BY 86% FROM $1,987 MILLION TO $3,704 MILLION COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
THE TOTAL AMOUNT SECURED BY CHARGES REGISTERED ON THE ASSETS OF COMPANIES DECREASED BY 38% FROM $47,234 MILLION TO $29,377 MILLION, AND THE NUMBER OF CHARGES FILLED IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1993 HAD DECREASED BY 9.7 % FROM 16,758 TO 15,134 OVER THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1992, WHILE THE AMOUNT REPAID ON CHARGES, AS EVIDENCED BY CERTIFICATES OF SATISFACTION, INCREASED BY 23% FROM $5,231 MILLION TO $6,450 MILLION, AND THE NUMBER OF CERTIFICATES HAD DECREASED BY 11% FROM 9,631 TO 8,558 IN THE SAME PERIOD.
DURING THE PERIOD, A TOTAL OF 78 PROSPECTUSES OF PUBLIC COMPANIES, INCLUDING 34 IN RESPECT OF MUTUAL FUNDS, WERE REGISTERED AS AGAINST 92 PROSPECTUSES, INCLUDING 31 IN RESPECT OF MUTUAL FUNDS, DURING THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD IN 1992.
THE NUMBER OF DOCUMENTS RECEIVED FOR FILING DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1993 AS COMPARED WITH THAT FOR THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992 INCREASED BY 8% FROM 616,230 TO 666,497.
/THE NUMBER .......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
13
THE NUMBER OF SEARCHES MADE UNDER THE MICROFILM SYSTEM DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1993 AS COMPARED WITH THAT FOR THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992 INCREASED BY 10% FROM 783,976 TO 861,977.
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF SUMMONSES ISSUED BY THE REGISTRAR OF COMPANIES AGAINST COMPANIES AND THEIR DIRECTORS FOR BREACHES OF THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE, MAINLY FOR FAILURE TO FILE ANNUAL RETURNS WITH ACCOUNTS, IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1993 WAS 101, COMPARED WITH 66 DURING THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
DURING THE PERIOD, TWO SUMMONSES WERE WITHDRAWN (FOR EXAMPLE, BECAUSE OF NON-SERVICE), 68 RESULTED IN CONVICTIONS COMPARED WITH 41 IN THE SAME PERIOD OF 1992 AND 28 REMAIN TO BE HEARD BY THE COURT (48 IN THE SAME PERIOD OF 1992).
THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF FINES IMPOSED FOR CONVICTIONS IN THE FIRST HALF YEAR OF 1993 WAS $283,505, COMPARED WITH $290,000 IN THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD IN 1992.
THE COMPANIES REGISTRY WAS PREVIOUSLY A DIVISION OF THE REGISTRAR GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT, BUT HAS SINCE MAY 1, 1993 BECOME A SEPARATE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT. THE REGISTRAR OF COMPANIES ALSO OPERATES THE MONEY LENDERS REGISTRY.
- - 0 - -
UNITED NATIONS SANCTIONS AGAINST HAITI
* t * * *
ON JUNE 16, THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL ADOPTED RESOLUTION 841 IMPOSING A RANGE OF SANCTIONS AGAINST HAITI.
THE RESOLUTION CAME INTO FORCE ON JUNE 23.
SPECIFIC POWERS FOR THE BETTER IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RESOLUTION BY THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT HAVE BEEN PROVIDED IN A UNITED KINGDOM ORDER IN COUNCIL WHICH COMES INTO FORCE ON JULY 22.
THE ORDER IMPOSES RESTRICTIONS ON THE EXPORT TO HAITI AND THE SUPPLY TO PERSONS CONNECTED WITH HAITI OF ARMS AND RELATED MATERIAL, AND PETROLEUM AND PETROLEUM PRODUCTS.
IT RESTRICTS CERTAIN RELATED ACTIVITIES INCLUDING THE CARRIAGE OF PROHIBITED GOODS IN SHIPS, AIRCRAFT AND VEHICLES.
THE ORDER ALSO PLACES RESTICTIONS ON CERTAIN ACTIONS MAKING AVAILABLE OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRING FUNDS OR OTHER FINANCIAL OR ECONOMIC RESOURCES TO OR FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE DE FACTO AUTHORITIES IN HAITI.
THE GOVERNMENT WILL TAKE ALL NECESSARY MEASURES TO IMPLEMENT FULLY OUR OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE ORDER IN COUNCIL.
/ENQUIRIES ON
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
14
ENQUIRIES ON THE SUBJECT SHOULD BE DIRECTED TOWARDS THE RESPECTIVE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT AS FOLLOWS:
GENERAL AND PRESS ENQUIRIES:
DUTY OFFICER, GOVERNMENT INFROMATION SERVICES (TEL NO: 842 8747)
TRADE RELATED MATTERS:
TRADE DEPARTMENT (TEL NO: 398 5556 OR 398 5572) CUSTOMS & EXCISE DEPARTMENT (TEL NO: 852 3303)
MARINE MATTERS:
MARINE DEPARTMENT (TEL NO: 852 4402)
FLIGHTS & AVIATION RELATED MATTERS: CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT (TEL NO: 867 4210 OR 867 4211)
FINANCIAL RELATED MATTERS FINANCIAL SERVICES BRANCH (TEL NO: 528 2139 OR 527 1893)
CONTROLS ON IMPORTS AND EXPORTS OF OZONE DEPLETING SUBSTANCES * * * * * *
IMPORTS AND EXPORTS OF 1,1,1-TRICHLOROETHANE, 10 OTHER CFCS AND CARBON TETRACHLORIDE FROM AND TO NON-PARTIES OF THE MONTREAL PROTOCOL ON SUBSTANCES THAT DEPLETE THE OZONE LAYER WILL BE PROHIBITED WITH EFFECT FROM AUGUST 10 THIS YEAR.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) SAID HONG KONG HAD BEEN COMPLYING WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE MONTREAL PROTOCOL THROUGH THE LICENSING SYSTEM OPERATING UNDER THE OZONE LAYER PROTECTION ORDINANCE (OLPO) SINCE 1989.
APART FROM THE ORIGINAL FIVE KINDS OF CFCS (CFC-11, 12, 113, 114, AND 115) AND THREE KINDS OF HALONS (1211, 1301 AND 2402), IMPORTS AND EXPORTS OF 1,1,1-TRICHLOROETHANE AND 10 OTHER CFCS HAVE BEEN SUBJECTED TO LICENSING CONTROL OF THE OLPO SINCE JANUARY 1 THIS YEAR.
THE CONTROL WILL BE EXTENDED TO CARBON TETRACHLORIDE WITH EFFECT FROM AUGUST 10 THIS YEAR.
"NO IMPORT OR EXPORT LICENCES UNDER THE OLPO WILL BE ISSUED BY THE TRADE DEPARTMENT FOR CONSIGNMENTS OF THESE CHEMICALS WHICH ORIGINATE FROM OR ARE DESTINED FOR COUNTRIES WHICH ARE NON-PARTIES TO THE PROTOCOL AFTER AUGUST 10," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
BOTH 1,1,1-TRICHLOROETHANE AND CARBON TETRACHLORIDE ARE MAINLY USED AS SOLVENT IN THE ELECTRONICS AND TEXTILE INDUSTRIES.
/SUBSTITUTE CHEMICALS .......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
15
SUBSTITUTE CHEMICALS AND ALTERNATIVE PROCESSES ARE AVAILABLE FOR MOST OF THE APPLICATIONS AND THE AFFECTED INDUSTRIES AND IMPORTERS DAVE BEEN CONSULTED AND ADVISED OF THESE ADDITIONAL CONTROLS.
MOREOVER, SINCE MOST OF THESE CHEMICALS USED IN HONG KONG ARE BEING IMPORTED FROM PARTY COUNTRIES, THE EFFECT OF THESE ADDITIONAL CONTROLS ON THE LOCAL INDUSTRIES SHOULD BE MINIMUM.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID STARTING FROM JANUARY 1 THIS YEAR THE ANNUAL CONSUMPTION OF 1,1,1-TR1CHLOROETHANE AND THE 10 OTHER CFCS HAD BEEN LIMITED AT 100 PER CENT AND 80 PER CENT OF HONG KONG’S 1989 CONSUMPTION LEVEL RESPECTIVELY.
THE ANNUAL CONSUMPTION OF CARBON TETRACHLORIDE WILL ALSO BE CUT TO 15 PER CENT OF 1989’S CONSUMPTION LEVEL BY 1995.
ACCORDING TO THE REVISED CONTROL SCHEDULE OF THE MONTREAL PROTOCOL AGREED AT COPENHAGEN LAST NOVEMBER, THE RETAINED IMPORTS OF 1,1,1-TRICHLOROETHANE AND 10 OTHER CFCS WILL BE FURTHER CUT TO 50 . R CENT AND 25 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY BY NEXT YEAR.
THESE CHEMICALS, TOGETHER WITH CARBON TETRACHLORIDE, WILL HAVE TO BE COMPLETELY PHASED OUT BY 1996.
ENQUIRIES REGARDING THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE OLPO AND THE CONTROL SCHEDULE OF THE MONTREAL PROTOCOL CAN BE MADE TO THE AIR CONTROL GROUP OF THE EPD ON 33RD FLOOR, REVENUE TOWER, 5 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI OR ON TEL 594 6242 OR 594 6243 DURING OFFICE HOURS.
ENQUIRIES REGARDING THE APPLICATION PROCEDURES FOR REGISTRATION AND IMPORT OR EXPORT LICENSES SHOULD BE MADE TO THE TRADE LICENSING (NON-TEXTILES) BRANCH OF THE TRADE DEPARTMENT ON FOURTH FLOOR, TRADE DEPARTMENT TOWER, 700 NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON OR ON TEL 398 5559, 398 5560 OR 398 5592.
- - 0 - -
GOODS FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS REVISED *****
THE DUTIABLE COMMODITIES (AMENDMENT) (NO.2) ORDINANCE 1993, WHICH REVISES PROCEEDINGS OF FORFEITURE OF SEIZED GOODS, WILL COME INTO EFFECT TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT SAID THE PURPOSE OF THE ORDINANCE WAS TO REMOVE OPERATIONAL DIFFICULTIES FACING THE COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS AND EXCISE IN ENFORCING THE PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE FORFEITURE OF SEIZED GOODS.
"THE PROCEDURES ARE NOW STREAMLINED. THIS WOULD SAVE STAFF TIME AND STORAGE SPACE WITHOUT COMPROMISING THE FAIRNESS OF THE SYSTEM TO THE PUBLIC," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
/THE REVISED
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
16
THE REVISED PROCEEDINGS PROVIDE THAT THE COMMISSIONER WILL, EXCEPT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, GIVE A NOTICE OE SEIZURE WITHIN 30 DAYS TO THE OWNER OF THE SEIZED ARTICLES, IF SUCH ARE SEIZED FOR FORFEITURE.
NO SUCH NOTICE WILL BE GIVEN IF THE ARTICLES ARE SEIZED IN THE PRESENCE OF THE SUSPECTED OFFENDER, THEIR OWNER OR THE OWNER’S EMPLOYEE OR AGENT, OR AN OWNER WHO DOES NOT HAVE A PERMANENT ADDRESS IN HONG KONG.
IF THE COMMISSIONER BELIEVES THAT THE SEIZED ARTICLES ARE STOLEN GOODS, HE WILL SERVE A NOTICE ON THE PERSON WHOM HE BELIEVES TO BE AN OWNER OF THE GOODS.
NOTICE OF SEIZURE WILL NORMALLY BE DELIVERED IN PERSON OR SENT BY REGISTERED POST ADDRESSED TO THE CONCERNED PERSON’S USUAL OR LAST KNOWN PLACE OF ABODE OR BUSINESS.
IF SUCH A NOTICE CANNOT BE DELIVERED, A NOTICE OF THE SEIZURE WILL BE EXHIBITED AT THE PUBLIC WAITING HALL OF THE PERMIT OFFICE, CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT ON THE FIRST FLOOR OF HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL WITHIN 30 DAYS AFTER THE SEIZURE FOR A PERIOD OF SEVEN DAYS.
ANY PERSON WHO CLAIMS THAT THE SEIZED ARTICLES ARE NOT LIABLE TO FORFEITURE SHALL WITHIN 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF SEIZURE GIVE A NOTICE OF CLAIM IN WRITING TO THE COMMISSIONER, WHETHER OR NOT A NOTICE OF SEIZURE HAS BEEN SERVED ON HIM.
THE SEIZED ARTICLES ARE DEEMED TO BE FORFEITED IF NO SUCH NOTICE IS RECEIVED BY THE COMMISSIONER ON THE EXPIRATION OF THE
30-DAY PERIOD.
THE NOTICE OF CLAIM SHALL CONTAIN THE CLAIMANT’S OR HIS
SOLICITOR’S FULL NAME AND ADDRESS TN HONG KONG. WITHOUT SUCH INFORMATION, THE NOTICE SHALL BE REGARDED AS IF IT HAD NOT BEEN GIVEN.
FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS AND CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS AGAINST A DEFENDANT ARE SEPARATE COURT HEARINGS.
WHERE THERE IS A CLAIM AND IF THE CLAIMANT IS THE DEFENDANT AND THERE IS NO OTHER CLAIMANT, THE COMMISSIONER WILL APPLY FOR THE FORFEITURE OF THE SEIZED GOODS IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE HEARING OF THE CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS. OTHERWISE THIS WILL BE DONE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
IN THE LATTER CASE, THE CLAIMANT WILL RECEIVE A SUMMONS ISSUED BY A MAGISTRATE, NOTIFYING HIM THE TIME AND PLACE OF THE HEARING.
IN THE FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS, THE MAGISTRATE WILL ALSO HEAR REPRESENTATION FROM ANY INTERESTED PARTY WHO HAS BOT BEEN SERVED WITH A NOTICE OF SEIZURE AND WAS NOT PRESENT WHEN THE ARTICLES WERE SEIZED, OR WHOSE IDENTITY WAS NOT KNOWN TO THE COMMISSIONER WHEN THE ARTICLES WERE SEIZED.
WHERE THE SEIZED ARTICLES ARE OF A PERISHABLE NATURE, THE COMMISSIONER IS EMPOWERED TO ORDER THE ARTICLES TO BE SOLD OR DESTROYED.
/IF THE .......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
- 17 -
IE THE ARTICLES ARE OF SUCH A NATURE THAT THEY ARE DIFFICULT TO STORE OR ARE LIKELY TO DETERIORATE BEFORE THE CONCLUSION OF THE FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS, THE COMMISSIONER CAN APPLY TO A MAGISTRATE FOR THE ARTICLES TO BE SOLD.
IN EITHER CASE, THE COMMISSIONER MAY RETURN THE ARTICLES TO THE OWNER OR A PERSON ENTITLED TO MAKE A CLAIM UPON PAYMENT TO THE COMMISSIONER OF A SECURITY NOT LESS THAN THE VALUE OF SUCH ARTICLES.
IF THE ARTICLES ARE SOLD, THE PROCEEDS OF SALE WILL BE RETAINED BY THE COMMISSIONER PENDING AN ORDER FROM THE MAGISTRATE HEARING THE FORFEITURE APPLICATION.
THE REVISED PROCEEDINGS ALSO PROVIDE FOR THE CLAIMANT TO APPLY TO A MAGISTRATE FOR THE RELEASE OF A SEIZED SHIP, VEHICLE OR AIRCRAFT BEFORE THE HEARING OF THE FORFEITURE APPLICATION.
HOWEVER, IF THE APPLICATION IS GRANTED, HE IS REQUIRED TO FURNISH A SECURITY OF A SUM OF MONEY NOT LESS THAN THE VALUE OF THE SHIP, VEHICLE OR AIRCRAFT, AND ALSO TO PAY THE COST OF ASSESSING THE VALUE OF THE SHIP, VEHICLE OR AIRCRAFT AS ORDERED BY THE MAGISTRATE.
HE IS FURTHER REQUIRED TO REDELIVER THE SHIP, VEHICLE OR AIRCRAFT INTO THE CUSTODY OF THE COMMISSIONER BEFORE THE DATE OF THE HEARING OF THE APPLICATION FOR FORFEITURE.
A CLAIMANT MAY PETITION THE GOVERNOR AGAINST THE DECISION OF THE COURT. IN DOING SO HE SHOULD GIVE A NOTICE IN WRITING TO THE COMMISSIONER WITHIN SIX WEEKS OF THE DECISION AND THEREAFTER LODGE THE PETITION WITH THE CHIEF SECRETARY WITHIN ONE MONTH.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO SAID THE NEW PROCEDURES WILL SHORTEN THE TIME REQUIRED FOR FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS FROM AN AVERAGE OF ABOUT 12 MONTHS TO SIX MONTHS.
IT ALSO RECTIFIES THE PRESENT SITUATION IN WHICH AN APPLICATION FOR FORFEITURE CANNOT BE HEARD DUE TO PROCEDURAL PROBLEMS, INCLUDING DIFFICULTIES IN SERVING SUMMONSES TO SOME OF THE CLAIMANTS.
PEOPLE HAVING QUERIES ON THE NEW PROCEDURES CAN CONTACT SENIOR STAFF OFFICER, MR MICHAEL LEE, ON TEL 852 3303.
/J 8 .........
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
- 18 -
ELECTORAL REGISTRATION FOR 93 PUBLISHED
*****
THE FINAL ELECTORAL REGISTER FOR 1993 HAS BEEN PUBLISHED AND IS AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION AT THE REGISTRATION AND ELECTORAL OFFICE AND RESPECTIVE DISTRICT OFFICES FROM TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
THE FINAL REGISTER CARRIES 1,944,680 ENTRIES, REPRESENTING A NET INCREASE OF 10,859 ELECTORS OVER 1992.
THE GROSS FIGURES FOR ADDITIONS AND OMISSIONS ARE RESPECTIVELY 36,194 AND 25,335; AND THE OVERALL REGISTRATION RATE REMAINS AT 52.4% (52.5% IN 1992).
THE MOVEMENT OF POPULATION FROM THE URBAN AREA TO THE NEW TERRITORIES CONTINUES, AND ACCOUNTS FOR A NET INCREASE OF 23,226 ELECTORS IN THE REGIONAL COUNCIL AREA AND A NET REDUCTION OF 12,367 ELECTORS IN THE URBAN COUNCIL AREA.
THE TOTAL REGISTERED ELECTORATE IN THE REGIONAL COUNCIL AREA STANDS AT 805,773 (48.7% OF TERRITORY TOTAL) AND THE URBAN COUNCIL AREA AT 1,138,907 (55.7% OF TERRITORY TOTAL).
THE FINAL REGISTER FOR FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL HAS ALSO BEEN PUBLISHED WITH 70,400 ENTRIES. THERE IS A NET INCREASE OF 424 ELECTORS OVER LAST YEAR.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
THEY ARE ON: THE 1993 FINAL REGISTER OF GENERAL ELECTION ROLL, CHANGES IN THE SIZE OF THE GENERAL ELECTORAL ROLL; AND THE 1993 FINAL REGISTER OF THE LEGCO ELECTORAL ROLL FOR FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES.
/REGISTRATION STATISTICS .......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
- 19 -
Registration Statistics by Districts 1993 FINAL REGISTER
District Estimated Population Estimated Potential Electorate No. of Electors in the 1993 Final Register Registration Rate
A Islands 47,500 30,600 23,701 77.5%
B North 184,400 118,700 59,554 50.2%
C Sai Kung 161,200 103,800 47,244 45.5%
D Sha Tin 512,100 329,700 166,112 50.4%
E Tai Po 262,800 169,200 73.372 43.4%
F Tsuen Wan 262,900 169,200 85,262 50.4%
G Tuen Mun 425.900 274,200 127,312 46.4%
H Yuen Long 273,300 175,900 80,708 45.9%
J Kwai Tsing 440,400 283,500 142,508 50.3%
Regional Council Area Sub-total 2.570,500 1,654,800 805,773 48.7%
M Central & Western 257,500 165,800 77,794 46.9%
N Wan Chai 184,600 118,800 58,831 49.5%
P Eastern 544,800 350,700 202,821 57.8%
Q Southern 249,600 160,700 95,735 59.6%
R Kowloon City 374,300 240.900 125,722 52.2%
S KwunTong 539,100 347,000 210,602 60.7%
T Mong Kok 167,100 107,600 46,177 42.9%
U Sham Shui Po 360,800 232,300 124,920 53.8%
V Wong Tai Sin 376,600 242,400 160.914 66.4%
W Yau Tsim 124,100 79,900 35,391 44.3%
Urban Council Area Sub-total 3,178.500! 2.046,100 1,138.907 55.7%
Marine Population 19,300 12.300 * —
Grand Total 5,768,300 3.713,200 1,944,680 52.4%
1992 FINAL REGISTER 5.752,1001 3.681,200 i 1,933.821 52.5%
# based on the Population Forecasts by District Board Districts (1992-2001) by Planning Department, Hong Kong, December 1992.
* incorporated in the District figures above.
Registration and Electoral Office,
Constitutional Affairs Branch,
Government Secretariat.
July 1993
Ref: K3RSDP52
Date: 19-Jul-93
/CHANGES IN .......
Date : 13-Jul-93
(b)
Changes in the Size of the General Electoral Roll
/LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
District No. of Electors in the 1992 Final Register No. of Deletions No. of Additions Gain/Loss in inter-district movement of electors No. of Electors in the 1993 Final Register Net Increase/ Decrease
A Islands 24,030 537 233 -25 23,701 -329 -1%
B North 57,050 774 1,482 1,796 59,554 2,504 4%
C Sai Kung 42,701 377 2,119 2,801 47,244 4,543 11%
D Sha Tin 161,803 1,080 3,157 2,232 166,112 4,309 3%
E Tai Po 68,293 579 2,033 3,625 73,372 5,079 7%
F Tsuen Wan 84,892 930 1,505 -205 85,262 370 0%
G Tuen Mun 125,958 998 2,599 -247 127,312 1,354 1%
H Yuen Long 76,674 1,260 2,615 2,679 80,708 4,034 5%
J Kwai Tsi ng 141,146 1,813 2,333 842 142,508 1,362 1%
Regional Council Area Sub-total 782,547 8,348 18,076 13,498 805,773 23,226 3%
M Central & Western 78,439 1,178 1,826 -1293 77,794 -645 -1%
N Wan Chai 60,648 1,190 986 -1613 58,831 -1817 -3%
p Eastern 203,717 2,569 3,425 -1752 202,821 -896 0%
Q Southern 94,166 1,215 1,552 1,232 95,735 1,569 2%
R Kowloon City 127,057 1,782 2,110 -1663 125,722 -1335 -1%
s Kwun Tong 215,386 2,914 3,201 -5071 210,602 -4784 -2%
T Mong Kok 48,779 840 803 -2565 46,177 -2602 -5%
U Sham Shui Po 125,998 2,140 1,889 -827 124,920 -1078 -1%
V Wong Tai Sin 159,847 2,268 1,733 1,602 160,914 1,067 1%
w Yau Tsim 37,237 891 593 -1548 35,391 -1846 -5%
Urban Council Area Sub-total 1,151,274 16,987 18,118 -13498 1,138,907 -12367 -1%
Total 1,933,821 25,335 36,194 0 1,944,680 10,859 1%
Registration and Electoral Office, Constitutional Affairs Branch, Government Secretariat.
July 1993
Ref: K3SGER52
Potential Electorate
Registered Electorate Registration Rate
1992 3,681,200 1,933,821
52.5%
1993 3,713,200 1,944,680 52.4%
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
JULY 1993
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ELECTORAL ROLL 1993 FINAL REGISTER
I l
I
l
o
i
i i
i
■O
Constituency Code Constituency Electoral Division II 1992 Final ' Register 1993 Deletions 1993 Additions 1993 I Change of ' Constituency 1993 FINAL Register Eligible Electorate 1993 Registration Rate
51 I 1 Commercial ' First Commercial II 1,440 103 I 120 + 10 I 1.467 3,026 48.48%
52 Commercial । Second Commercial 2,315 27 5 -2 2,291 5,378 42.60%
(corporate) 1504 14 5 -2 1493 3128 47.73%
(individual) 811 13 0 o 798 vv 2250 35.47%
53 Industrial First Industrial 441 40 12 +2 415 729 56.93%
54 Industrial Second Industrial 1,239 24 12 -2 1,225 2,141 57.22%
55 Finance & Financial Services Finance 228 5 5 -1 227 366 62.02%
56 Labour — 383 3 6 0 386 493 78.30%
57 Social Services — 179 1 1 0 179 207 86.47%
58 Tourism 845 28 6 0 823 1.345 61.19%
59 Real Estate & Construction 376 9 1 -5 363 746 48.66%
(corporate) 314 9 1 -5 301 . 544 55.33%
(individual) 62 0 0 0 62 202 - : 30.69%
60 Finance & Financial Services Financial Services 668 48 27 u -3 644 1.043 61.75%
(corporate) 431 16 27 -2 440 733 60.03%
(individual) 237 32 0 -1 204 310 65.81%
Sub- Total: i 3,114 283 195 -1 8,020 15,474 51.33%
81 Medical & Health Care Medical 4,099 5 76 0 4,170 7,397 56.37%
82 Teaching — 38,805 103 96 -2 38,791 55,710 69.63%
83 Legal — 1,291 4 28 0 1,315 3,088 42.58%
84 Engineering, Architectural, Engineering 2,786 4 45 -2 2,825 3,794 74.46%
Surveying and Planning
85 Medical & Health Care Health Care 10,736 7 177 0 10,906 19,752 55.21%
861 Accountancy — 2.405 24 264 + 4 2,649 6,000 44.15%
87 Engineering, Architectural, Architectural, Surveying, I 1,553 27 15 + 1 1,542 2,601 59.28%
Surveying and Planning and Planning
881 Urban Council — 40 0 0 0 40 40 100.00%
891 Regional Council — 35 1 1 0 35 36 97.22%
901 Rural ~ it 112 5l 0 0 107 139 76.9S%
Sub— Total: n 61.862\ /85l 702 + / 62,380 98,557 j 6329%
Functional Constituency Total 69,976 473 897 0 70,400 114,031 61.74%
Registration and Electoral Office
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
22
LABOUR DEPARTMENT GIVES ADVICE TO JOB-SEEKERS
*****
STUDENTS INTENDING TO TAKE UP EMPLOYMENT OR TEMPORARY WORK ARE REMINDED TO SEEK ADVICE EROM THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT IE THEY HAVE DOUBTS ON JOB OFFERS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT GAVE THE ADVICE TODAY (THURSDAY) FOLLOWING RECENT ENQUIRIES FROM STUDENTS SEEKING ADVICE ON EMPLOYMENT AND SUMMER JOBS.
HE SAID NOT ONLY SHOULD THE STUDENTS UNDERSTAND THE JOB NATURE, DUTIES AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT, THEY SHOULD ALSO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT FACTORS SUCH AS PERSONAL INTEREST AND ABILITY.
"STUDENTS SHOULD PAY EXTRA CARE BEFORE SIGNING ANY CONTRACT OR ACCEPTING ANY DEMANDS FROM THE EMPLOYER IN TERMS OF MONETARY GUARANTEE, OR PAYMENT OF CASH EITHER FOR TRAINING OR FOR BUYING GOODS INTENDED FOR SALE," HE SAID.
"THEY SHOULD AVOID ACCEPTING JOBS WITH IMMORAL IMPLICATION, DANGEROUS JOBS ON CONSTRUCTION SITES OR JOBS THAT REQUIRE THE HANDLING OF CHEMICALS AND HEAVY MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT.
"STUDENTS HAVING DOUBTS ON THE JOB OFFERED OR ENCOUNTER I NG ANY PROBLEM SHOULD CONSULT THEIR PARENTS, CAREER TEACHERS OR STAFF OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (LES)," HE ADDED.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE EITHER IN PERSON OF THE 10 LES BRANCH OFFICES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY OR BY TELEPHONE ON 557 3924.
--------0-----------
APPEALS TO SOCIAL SECURITY BOARD ON THE RISE
*****
THE SOCIAL SECURITY APPEAL BOARD RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 161 APPEALS IN 1992/93, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 29 CASES, OR 22 PER CENT, AS COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING YEAR.
OF THE APPEALS, 11 WERE ON PUBLIC ASSISTANCE, 148 ON DISABILITY ALLOWANCE, AND TWO RELATED TO THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS ASSISTANCE SCHEME.
ACCORDING TO THE LATEST ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BOARD, ALL APPEALS WERE HEARD BY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD WHO ARE ALL UNOFFICIALS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR.
THEY ACT AS AN INDEPENDENT BODY TO PROVIDE A MEANS OF REDRESS FOR PERSONS NOT SATISFIED WITH THE DECISION OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT IN RESPECT OF ELIGIBILITY AND PAYMENT OF SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS.
/THE BOARD
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
- 23 -
THE BOARD HAD SO FAR HEARD 95 CASES FOR THE YEAR AND ANOTHER 52 CASES BROUGHT FORWARD FROM THE PRECEDING YEAR.
OF THESE 147 APPEALS HEARD DURING THE YEAR, THE BOARD SUBSTANTIATED THE DECISION OF THE DEPARTMENT IN 72 CASES AND OVERRULED ITS DECISION IN 75 CASES.
TO KEEP MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WELL AWARE OF THE WORK OF THE BOARD, POSTERS ABOUT THE APPEAL BOARD ARE DISPLAYED AT THE DEPARTMENT’S SOCIAL SECURITY FIELD UNITS AND THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS ASSISTANCE SECTION.
EXPLANATORY LEAFLETS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION AT THESE OFFICES.
IN ADDITION, WHENEVER A PERSON IS NOTIFIED IN WRITING BY THE DEPARTMENT OF THE RESULT OF HIS APPLICATION FOR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS, HE IS ALSO INFORMED OF HIS RIGHT TO APPEAL TO THE BOARD IF HE IS DISSATISFIED WITH THE DEPARTMENT’S DECISION.
-----0-----
DOCTORS INVITED TO JOIN SCHOOL MEDICAL SCHEME
*****
THE SCHOOL MEDICAL SERVICE BOARD HAS SENT OUT LETTERS TO ALL REGISTERED PRIVATE MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS CURRENTLY PRACTISING IN HONG KONG, INVITING THEM TO JOIN THE SCHEME FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR 1993/94.
ENCOURAGING DOCTORS TO TAKE PART IN THE COMMUNITY SERVICE, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE BOARD SAID: "DOCTORS PARTICIPATING IN THE CURRENT YEAR HAVE TO RENEW THEIR CONTRACT WITH THE BOARD IF THEY WISH TO CONTTINUE DOING SO."
THE REMUNERATION IS $156 PER PUPIL A YEAR.
IN ADDITION, A PER VISIT CHARGE OF $18 MAI BE LEVIED ON EACH PUPIL, WITH MEDICINE SUPPLIED FREE FOR TWO DAYS IF MEDICATION IS REQUIRED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID NO OTHER CHARGES MUST BE LEVIED ON STUDENTS.
THOSE WHO WISH TO PARTICIPATE AND HAVE NOT RECEIVED THE INVITATION LETTER MAY CONTACT THE BOARD’S SECRETARIAT ON TEL 894 9603, 576 4765 OR 576 3545.
CLOSING DATE FOR JOINING THE SCHEME IS AUGUST 2.
/24 .......
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
4
25 PASS MEDICAL LICENTIATE EXAM * * * * *
THE LICENTIATE COMMITTEE OF THE MEDICAL COUNCIL OF HONG KONG ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT 25 CANDIDATES HAD PASSED THE FINAL PART OF THE LICENTIATE EXAMINATION FOR UNREG ISTRABLE DOCTORS HELD EARLIER THIS MONTH.
FORTY-SEVEN CANDIDATES HAD FAILED THE EXAMINATION.
THIS PART OF THE EXAMINATION WAS AN ORAL TEST TO TRY OUT THE CANDIDATES’ ABILITY TO APPLY PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE TO CLINICAL PROBLEMS.
CANDIDATES WERE EXAMINED BY TWO PANELS OF EXAMINERS IN EACH OF THE THREE DISCIPLINES: MEDICINE, SURGERY AND OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY.
THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL BE REQUIRED TO UNDERGO 18 MONTHS OF ASSESSMENT AND TRAINING IN HOSPITALS APPROVED BY THE MEDICAL COUNCIL STARTING IN SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR.
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262 YOUNG HEALTH LEADERS TRAINED *****
TWO HUNDRED AND SIXTY-TWO FORM 3 STUDENTS HAVE SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED THIS YEAR’S YOUNG HEALTH LEADERS TRAINING PROJECT JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
THIS BRINGS TO 2,352 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF STUDENTS TRAINED UNDER THE PROJECT SINCE IT STARTED 10 YEARS AGO.
THE PURPOSE OF THE PROJECT IS TO TRAIN SELECTED STUDENTS ON HEALTH EDUCATION, COMMUNICATION SKILL AND LEADERSHIP SO THAT THEY CAN HELP SEND PROPER HEALTH MESSAGES AMONG THEIR SCHOOLMATES, FRIENDS, FAMILY MEMBERS AND NEIGHBOURS, AND DRIVE THEM '1’0 TURN TO HEALTHY LIFE STYLE.
’’THIS YEAR, WE HAVE SPECIALLY INVITED MORE PROFESSIONALS SUCH AS CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS TO GIVE TALKS TO THE TRAINEES,” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
AFTER THE TRAINING, THE YOUNG HEALTH LEADERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO CARRY OUT HEALTH EDUCATION PROJECTS IN THEIR SCHOOLS AND WILL BE GIVEN HELP AND GUIDANCE BY THE CENTRAL HEALTH EDUCATION UNIT OF THE DEPARTMENT, HE ADDED.
AN INTAKE OF 273 STUDENTS WERE SELECTED THIS YEAR TO TAKE ABOUT TWO WEEKS OF FULL-DAY TRAINING UNDER THE PROJECT.
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/25
THURSDAY, JULY 22, 1993
MUSIC ADMINISTRATOR MEETS STAKE AND PARENTS ♦ ♦ * ♦ ♦
THE MUSIC ADMINISTRATOR OF THE MUSK OFFICE, MR BRIAN LAU, TODAY (THURSDAY) MET REPRESENTATIVES OF THE GOVERNMENT MUSIC OFFICER GRADE STAFF ASSOCIATION AND THE MUSIC OFFICE PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION.
HE EXPLAINED TO THEM THE ADMINISTRATION’S PRELIMINARY VIEWS ON THE FUTURE OF THE MUSIC OFFICE.
SUBJECT TO EXECUTIVE COUNCIL’S APPROVAL, ITS WORK WOULD BE TRANSFERRED TO A NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATION, HE SAID.
INTERESTED ORGANISATIONS WOULD BE INVITED TO SUBMIT DETAILED PROPOSALS TO THE GOVERNMENT FOR CONSIDERATION.
DETAILED ARRANGEMENTS WOULD THEN BE WORKED OUT WITH THE CHOSEN ORGANISATION.
THE WHOLE PROCESS OF TRANSFER WAS ENVISAGED TO TAKE UP TO TWO OR THREE YEARS.
MR LAU NOTED THE GOVERNMENT MUSIC OFFICER GRADE STAFF ASSOCIATION’S VIEW THAT THE WORK OF THE MUSIC OFFICE SHOULD BE TRANSFERRED IN ITS ENTIRETY AND THE STAFF CONCERNED SHOULD BE ABLE TO MAINTAIN THEIR STATUS AS CIVIL SERVANTS.
HE ASSURED THEM THAT THEIR VIEWS WOULD BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT WHEN THE ADMINISTRATION CONSIDERED WHICH NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATION SHOULD TAKE OVER THE MUSIC OFFICE’S WORK.
THE STAFF ASSOCIATION HAD BEEN SPECIFICALLY INVITED TO FORWARD THEIR VIEWS AND PROPOSALS ON STAFFING ARRANGEMENTS.
MR LAU REASSURED THEM THAT ALL STAFF WOULD BE CONSULTED ONCE CONCRETE PROPOSALS CONCERNING THE STAFFING ARRANGEMENTS HAD BEEN DRAWN UP.
HE ALSO REAFFIRMED TO THE PARENTS THAT THE STANDARD AND LEVEL OF ACTIVITIES OF THE MUSIC OFFICE AND ITS REGIONAL MUSIC CENTRES WOULD BE MAINTAINED AFTER THE TRANSFER.
THE CHOSEN NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATION WOULD BE REQUIRED TO DEMONSTRATE THAT THEY COULD ALLAY THE PARENTS’ WORRIES AND INSTIL CONFIDENCE IN THEM.
SUBJECT TO THE AGREEMENT OF THE ORGANISATION, TRIPARTITE MEETINGS BETWEEN THE PARENTS, THE ORGANISATION AND THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH/MUSIC OFFICE WOULD BE ARRANGED AT A LATER STAGE SO THAT THE PARENTS CAN DIRECTLY PASS ON THEIR VIEWS.
MR LAU EMPHASISED THAT THE ADMINISTRATION’S VIEWS WERE STILL QUITE PRELIMINARY AT THIS STAGE PENDING APPROVAL OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL.
HE WOULD REGULARLY MEET THE STAFF ASSOCIATION AND PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION TO KEEP THEM INFORMED AND EXCHANGE VIEWS.
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/26
THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 1993
26
FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING t * * » *
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A MEETING AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT 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.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING.
ADVANCE COPIES OF THE PAPERS FOR THE MEETING WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM 2.30 PM TODAY (THURSDAY) IN THE PRESS ROOM OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BUILDING, JACKSON ROAD, CENTRAL. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CONTENT OF THE PAPERS ARE NOT FOR USE UNTIL THE MEETING IS OVER.
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS » * * » *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,980
REVERSAL OF LAF + 20
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -490
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,510
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
TWI 112.6 »+0.0» 22.7.93
EF TERMS HONG BILLS YIELD KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF NOTES/HONG TERM KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.25 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.58 3.85
1 MONTH 2.72 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.75 4.07
3 MONTHS 3.15 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.74 4.30
6 MONTHS 3.43 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.72 4.54
12 MONTHS 3.79 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 24,455MN
CLOSED 22 JULY 1993
Received by PRO on? 7 111! 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY. JUJY 23, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOOD WEEK FOR ACP: CS ........................................ j
LORRY PROTEST AT MAN KAM TO .................................. 2
SALE OF OVERSEAS TRUST RANK LIMITED .......................... 2
BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION APPOINTED ................... 3
GOVERNOR ON LIBRARIES .................................... 5
LDC DEVELOPMENT SCHEME APPROVED .............................. 5
TSUEN WAN RFDFVF1OPMFNT PROJECT }pppnvFD 7
NEW FRANCHISE TO NEW I ANT.AO BUS ............................ 8
GREEN PAPER ON FOIAT OPPORTUNITIES TO BF PURI TSHFD .......... 9
THREE TFRTIARA INSTITUTIONS GRANTED SELF-ACCREDITATION STATUS 10 FINAL ACCOUNTS FOR 1992/93 PUBLISHED .........................
SANCTIONS AGAINST SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO STRENGTHENED ......... 11
FINANCE COMMITTEE APPROVES F.X-GR ATT A AI I OWANCFS FOR MARICULTURISTS ................................................ 12
WAGE INDICES FOR MARCH ....................................... ]3
/AIDS IS ........
AIDS IS EVERYBODY'S CONCERN ..................
APPJTCATlONS FOR CROSS-RORDFR Rl’S/HlRF CAR SFR\ FCF
REVISED GUIDELINE ON MONEY LAUNDERING ISSUED
PUBLIC URGED TO HANDLE IPG TNSTALIATIONS WITH CARF APPOINTMENTS TO HK EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY
WSD CUSTOMER LIAISON GROUP HOI DS FIRST MFFTTNG RESERVOIR STTF FORMATION STARTS TN OCTOBER
FARFS FOR TWO MTVTBUS ROUTES UP ..................
laying of submarine carlf proposed
DRUG ABUSE HOTI INE EXPANDS ..................
EDUCATION COLLEGE IMPROVEMENT WORKS
REGISTRATION FORMS FOR OVERSEAS UK ELECTORS
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURE SOUGHT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
GOOD WEEK FOR AGP: CS
♦ * * * ♦
THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD, TODAY (FRIDAY) SAID THIS WEEK HAD BEEN A VERY GOOD WEEK FOR THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME (ACP).
"AS YOU KNOW ON WEDNESDAY THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING BILL WENT THROUGH. TODAY, CENTRAL WANCHA1 RECLAMATION WAS APPROVED. AND EARLIER IN THE WEEK THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY (NORTH SECTION) CONTRACT WAS LET FOR OVER $1 BILLION,” SIR DAVID SAID.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER THE FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING, HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT NOW GOT OVER $10 BILLION OF CONTRACTS WHICH WERE UNDERWAY ON THE ACP.
"THEY’RE ALL GOING WELL. THEY ARE ON TIME. AND THEY ARE WITHIN BUDGET. AND THIS IS A VERY GOOD RECORD FOR AN INTERNATIONAL PROJECT SUCH AS THIS ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD.
"AND AS I AM SURE YOU ('AN \LL SEI’ NOW THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME IS REALLY GETTING UNDERWAY AND IS MAKING TREMENDOUSLY GOOD PROGRESS. SO IT’S BEEN A VERY GOOD WEEK FOR US," HE SAID.
SIR DAVID ALSO SAID HE HOPED THAT THE AIRPORT COMMITTEE MEETING WOULD BE HELD VERY SOON, ADDING THAT THERE WAS NO DATE YET FIXED.
"BUT 1 DO HOPE THAT WE WILL BE ABLE TO HAVE ONE WITHIN THE NEXT WEEK OR SO AND THAT WE WILL BE ABLE TO MAKE PROGRESS.
"WE DO CLEARLY WANT TO PUT THE LAST PIECE OF THE JIGSAW IN PLACE AND GET AGREEMENT ON IHE FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE AIRPORT AND THE RAILWAY AND THEN WE CAN GO ABSOLUTELY FULL STEAM AHEAD. BUT WE ARE MAKING GOOD PROGRESS."
ON THE QUESTION OF THE FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS, SIR DAVID SAID THERE WAS STILL SOME DISCUSSION TO GO.
"BUT I AM CONVINCED THAT WI TH GOOD WI LL ON BOTH SIDES, AND THERE’S CERTAINLY PLENTY OF THAT I BELIEVE, THAT WE WOULD BE ABLE TO REACH A CONCLUSION QUITE SOON."
ON THE DRAFTING OF THE AIRPORT AUTHORITY BILL, HE SAID THE PROCESS WAS GOING AHEAD WELL AND HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT APPROVAL WOULD BE SOUGHT IN DUE COURSE.
HE SAID IT HAD TO BE DISCUSSED WITH THE CHINESE SIDE FIRST AND THEN WITH THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
ON THE LEGCO WORK, SIR DAVID SAID ALTHOUGH THERE HAD BEEN QUITE A FEW CONTROVERSIES IN THIS LEGCO SESSION, THERE HAD BEEN A GROWING UNDERSTANDING OF THE WAY IN WHICH THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE OFFICIALS AND THE UNOFFICIALS, HAD WORKED TOGETHER.
HE SAID IT HAD BEEN A GOOD RECORD TO HAVE OVER 80 BILLS THROUGH THIS SESSION.
"WE HAVE GOT ALL OUR BUSINESS THROUGH WI TH A GREAT DEAL OF COOPERATION ON BOTH SIDES. AND I THINK IT IS A VERY HEALTHY SIGN TO SHOW THAT DEMOCRATIC DEVELOPMENT IN HONG KONG IS WORKING VERY WELL."
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/2 .....
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
2
LORRY PROTEST AT MAN KAM TO *****
THE GOVERNMENT TONIGHT (FRIDAY) CALLED ON LORRY DRIVERS INVOLVED IN THE MAN KAM TO PROTEST TO CLEAR THEIR VEHICLES SO THAT OTHER MOTORISTS AND LOCAL RESIDENTS COULD GO ABOUT THEIR NORMAL BUSINESS.
"WHATEVER THEIR GRIEVANCES, THE DRIVERS SHOULD TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THE GREAT INCONVENIENCE TO OTHER ROAD USERS WHOSE LIVELIHOODS COULD BE SERIOUSLY AFFECTED," A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE CATEGORICALLY DENIED CLAIMS BY SOME DRIVERS THAT THERE WERE ONLY A FEW IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS CLEARANCE KIOSKS OPERATING ON THE HONG KONG SIDE.
"WE HAVE MAINTAINED FIVE ARRIVAL AND FIVE DEPARTURE COUNTERS, WHICH IS MORE THAN ADEQUATE TO MATCH THE FACILITIES ON THE CHINA SIDE," HE SAID.
HE SAID THE INCIDENT STARTED AT 9.40 AM WHEN A DRIVER RETURNING FROM CHINA COMPLAINED ABOUT THE ALLEGED SLOW PROCESSING OF CHINESE CUSTOMS AND STOPPED HIS LORRY AT A ROUNDABOUT NEAR MAN KAM TO. OTHER DRIVERS SOON JOINED HIM, BLOCKING THE ROAD WITH THEIR. TRUCKS.
IN AN ATTEMPT TO DIFFUSE THE SITUATION, THE POLICE ARRANGED A MEETING WITH THE BORDER LIAISON OFFICE ON THE CHINESE SIDE, RUT THE DRIVERS FAILED TO ATTEND THE MEETING.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID A GROUP OF OPERATORS AND LORRY OWNERS ARRIVED ON THE SCENE IN THE EARLY AFTERNOON. THEIR ATTEMPT TO PERSUADE THE DRIVERS TO DISCONTINUE THE PROTEST WAS UNSUCCESSFUL.
"NOW THAT THE BORDER HAS CLOSED FOR THE NIGHT, WE HOPE THE DRIVERS WILL REMOVE THEIR LORRIES SO THAT NORMAL TRAFFIC CAN RESUME IN THE MORNING," HE SAID.
---------------------------: o-------------------------------------
SALE OF OVERSEAS TRUST BANK LIMITED *****
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT AGREEMENT HAD NOW BEEN REACHED IN PRINCIPLE WITH GUOCO GROUP LIMITED FOR THE SALE BY THE GOVERNMENT TO IT OF THE ENTIRE ISSUED SHARE CAPITAL OF OVERSEAS TRUST BANK, LIMITED (OTB).
A FORMAL SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENT IS EXPECTED TO BE SIGNED ON OR BEFORE JULY 30 THIS YEAR, AT WHICH TIME A MORE DETAILED ANNOUNCEMENT WILL BE MADE.
/A GOVERNMENT .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
3
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID: ’’THE SALE OF OTB HAS BEEN ONGOING FOR THE LAST NINE MONTHS, ADOPTING A PROCESS WHICH WAS DESIGNED TO ENSURE THAT TERMS OF THE SALE ARE ACCEPTABLE TO THE GOVERNMENT AND THAT FAIR COMPETITION EXISTS AMONG POTENTIAL BIDDERS.”
"WE ARE PLEASED THAT THIS PROCESS IS NOW NEARING SUCCESSFUL FRUITION. WHILE THE DETAILED TERMS OF THE AGREEMENT REMAIN TO BE FINALISED, WE ARE PLEASED TO SAY THAT AGREEMENT ON THE PRINCIPAL POINTS HAS BEEN REACHED AND THAT THE AGREEMENT WILL PROVIDE FOR A HIGH LEVEL OF PROTECTION FOR THE FUTURE OF STAFF OF OTB.
"IN ADDITION THE CONSIDERATION REPRESENTS A SUBSTANTIAL PREMIUM OF HK$420 MILLION OVER THE ADJUSTED NET ASSET VALUE OF THE OTB GROUP AS AT JUNE 30 THIS YEAR WHICH IS CURRENTLY BEING AUDITED," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
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BOUNDARY AND ELECTION (’OMNI SSI ON APPOINTED ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ *
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) ANNOUNCED THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE THREE-MEMBER BOUNDARY AND ELECTION COMMISSION (BEC), AN INDEPENDENT BODY TO TAKE CHARGE OF ELECTORAL MATTERS INCLUDING THE DELINEATION OF GEOGRAPHICAL CONSTITUENCY BOUNDARIES.
THE BEC, ESTABLISHED UNDER THE BEC ORDINANCE, WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR REVIEWING THE BOUNDARIES OF GEOGRAPHICAL CONSTITUENCIES IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MUNICIPAL COUNCIL AND DISTRICT BOARD ELECTIONS.
IT WILL ALSO TAKE UP THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE CONDUCT AND SUPERVISION OF THESE ELECTIONS AFTER THE ADMINISTRATION HAS COMPLETED THE COMING BY-ELECTIONS FOR THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL REGIONAL COUNCIL FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCY AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL SAI KUNG CONSTITUENCY RESPECTIVELY.
THE BEC WILL SUPERVISE THE REGISTRATION OF ELECTORS, REGULATE THE PROCEDURE FOR ELECTIONS AND MAKE PRACTICAL ARRANGEMENTS TO ENSURE THAT ELECTIONS ARE CONDUCTED OPENLY, HONESTLY AND FAIRLY.
IT WILL ALSO REPORT TO THE GOVERNOR ON ANY MATTER RELATING TO AN ELECTION.
THE! GOVERNOR HAS APPOINTED THE HONOURABLE MR JUSTICE WOO KWOK-HING AS CHAIRMAN OF THE BEC FOR A PERIOD OF THREE-AND-A-HALF YEARS. MR ROBERT GEORGE KOTEWALL, QC AND PROFESSOR LEUNG CHI-KEUNG, JP HAVE BEEN APPOINTED AS MEMBERS FOR /X TENURE OF THREE YEARS.
ALL APPOINTMENTS TAKE EFFECT FROM TODAY.
MR JUSTICE WOO, 47, WAS BORN IN HONG KONG AND IS MARRIED WITH FOUR CHILDREN. HE IS CURRENTLY A HIGH COURT JUDGE, HAVING JOINED THE BENCH IN 1992 AFTER YEARS OF PRIVATE PRACTICE IN HONG KONG. HE BECAME A QUEEN’S COUNSEL IN 1987.
/MR JUSTICE
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
MR JUSTICE WOO PREVIOUSLY SERVED ON THE CRIMINAL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT INJURIES COMPENSATION BOARDS FROM 1989 TO 1991, AND THE REGISTRATION OF PERSONS TRIBUNAL FROM 1987 TO 1992.
HE WAS A COMMITTEE MEMBER OF THE HONG KONG BAR ASSOCIATION FROM 1983 TO 1985, A LEGAL ADVISER TO CITIZENS UNDER THE LAW SOCIETY FREE LEGAL ADVICE SCHEME FROM 1980 TO 1985 AND THE CHIEF EXTERNAL EXAMINER OF THE POST GRADUATE COURSE IN LAWS IN THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG FROM 1987-88.
HE HAS BEEN THE HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LAW AND BUSINESS, HONG KONG SHUE YAN COLLEGE AND A MEMBER OF THE NEW YORK STATE BAR SINCE 1986.
MR KOTEWALL, 42, IS MARRIED WITH THREE CHILDREN. HE IS A QUEEN’S COUNSEL TN PRIVATE PRACTICE.
HE IS CURRENTLY A MEMBER OF THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE HONG KONG BAR ASSOCIATION ON THE RULES COMMITTEE, A NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION AND A MEMBER OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE ON COMPANY LAW REFORM.
MR KOTEWALL PREVIOUSLY SERVED AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF REVIEW (INLAND REVENUE) BETWEEN 19R5 AND 1991.
PROFESSOR LEUNG, 58, IS THE HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG. HE WAS APPOINTED A JUSTICE OF PEACE IN 1992.
HE IS ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN COMMUNITY SERVICE, CURRENTLY BEING THE CHAIRMAN OF THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE, AND A MEMBER OF THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD, METRO PLANNING COMMITTEE, THE SENATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG AND THE COUNCIL MEMBER OF HONG KONG BAPTIST COLLEGE.
HE WAS PREVIOUSLY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF TRANSPORT HONG KONG SECTION FROM 1986 TO 1987. PROFESSOR LEUNG IS MARRIED WITH THREE CHILDREN.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BEC, THE HONOURABLE MR JUSTICE WOO KWOK-HING, WILL MEET THE PRESS TODAY (FRIDAY) AT 5 PM AT ROOM 126A, EAST WING, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, CENTRAL. YOR ARE INVITED TO SEND A REPRESENTATIVE TO ATTEND.
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/5.........
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 5 -
GOVERNOR ON LIBRARIES
*****
TO THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, THE PROVISION OF LIBRARIES IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT COMMUNITY SERVICES THAT ANYONE (’AN PROVIDE.
"I LOVE BOOKS AND THEREFORE I LOVE LIBRARIES.
’’BOOKS EDUCATE, BOOKS INFORM, BOOKS GIVE HOPE, BOOKS GIVE COMFORT, BOOKS INSPIRE,’’ MR PATTEN SAID, WHEN OPENING THE TSUEN WAN CENTRAL LIBRARY THIS (FRIDAY) AFTERNOON.
HE SAID WHOEVER INVENTED THE IDEA OF PUBLIC LIBRARIES DESERVED "A SPECIALLY ELEVATED PLACE IN HEAVEN”.
STROLLING DOWN THE MEMORY LANE, MR PATTEN SAID HE COULD STILL REMEMBER. AS A CHILD GOING EVER\ SATURDAY MORNING TO THE NEAREST PUBLIC LIBRARY.
”1 CAN REMEMBER THE EXCITEMENT OF THAT.
"J CAN REMEMBER THE DIFFICULT OF CHOOS I NG WHICH THREE BOOKS, WE WERE ONLY ALLOWED THREE BOOKS TO TAKE OUT OF THE SCORES THAT I WANTED TO READ.”
HE SAID LIBRARIES HAD A CRUCIAL ROLE IN ENCOURAGING CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE TO READ.
’’AND IF 1 MAY SAY SO THEY ALSO HAVE A CRUCIAL ROLE IN ENCOURAGING ADULTS TO GO BACK TO BOOKS AND TO START READING AGAIN.”
HE ALSO PRAISED THE REGIONAL COUNCIL FOR SETTING UP A NETWORK OF PUBLIC LIBRARIES ACROSS THE NEW TERRITORIES.
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LDC DEVELOPMENT SCHEME APPROVED
*****
THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL HAS APPROVED UNDER THE TOWN PLANNING ORDINANCE FOR THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (LDC) TO REDEVELOP AN OLD AREA IN THE HEART OF MONG KOK WITH A PACKAGE OF COMPREHENSIVE FACILITIES.
THE AREA, FOR WHICH THE LDC HAS MAPPED OUT A DEVELOPMENT PLAN UNDER ITS URBAN RENEWAL SCHEME, COVERS AN AREA OF 1.59 HECTARES BOUND BY ARGYLE STREET, RECLAMATION STREET, SHANTUNG STREET AND PORTLAND STREET.
THE ’’ARGYLE STREET/SHANGHAI STREET DEVELOPMENT SCHEME PLAN” PROVIDES A FRAMEWORK TO RESTRUCTURE THE EXISTING LAND USE PATTERN OF THE OLD AREA AND PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS.
/AT THE .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 6 -
AT THE MOMENT, THE CONDITIONS OE THE AREA LEAVE MUCH TO BE DESIRED.
THE BUILDINGS THERE, MAINLY FIVE TO 11 STOREYS HIGH, ARE IN A DETERIORATING AND POOR CONDITION, WITH SOME HAVING NO PROPER SANITARY FACILITIES.
THE POOR CONDITIONS OF THE RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS, COUPLED WITH ON-STREET COOKED FOOD STALLS NEARBY, HAVE ADVERSELY AFFECTED THE ENVIRONMENT.
CONGESTION IN THE STREETS HAS BEEN AGGRAVATED BY ON-STREET LOADING AND UNLOADING ACTIVITIES AND PUBLIC LIGHT BUS TERMINUS ALONG PORTLAND STREET AND NELSON STREET, WHILE THE NARROW PAVEMENTS CAN HARDLY COPE WITH A HIGH VOLUME OF PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC.
PRIVATE REDEVELOPMENT OF THE AREA HAS BEEN HINDERED BY A NUMBER OF FACTORS, SUCH AS THE SMALL SIZE OF LOTS AND FRAGMENTED OWNERSHIP.
THUS A COMPREHENSIVE URBAN RENEWAL OF THE AREA BY THE LDC IS REQUIRED SO AS TO IMPROVE THE ENVIRONMENT AND ACHIEVE MORE EFFICIENT USE OF LAND.
THE LDC’S DEVELOPMENT SCHEME INTENDS TO PROVIDE MAINLY COMMERICAL, GOVERNMENT, INSITUTION AND COMMUNITY FLOOR SPACES ACCOMMODATING A MIXTURE OF OFFICE, RETAIL AND HOTEL USES.
IN ADDITION, A PUBLIC OPEN SPACE OF ABOUT 1,100 SQUARE METRES AND A PUBLIC LIGHT BUS TERMINAL WILL ALSO BE PROVIDED.
UNDER THE SCHEME, HONG LOK STREET AND PART OF NELSON STREET WILL BE CLOSED TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC AND INCORPORATED WITHIN THE DEVELOPMENT SITE.
THE WELL-KNOWN PET-BIRD STALLS, A COOKED FOOD CENTRE AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES, WHICH WERE PREVIOUSLY PLANNED TO BE RELOCATED IN ANOTHER LDC DEVELOPMENT SCHEME FOR SHAMCHUN STREET IN THE SAME DISTRICT, WILL NOW BE PROVIDED IN THIS DEVELOPMENT SCHEME.
THIS FOLLOWS THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD’S DECISION TO AMEND THE SHAMCHUN STREET DEVELOPMENT SCHEME PLAN TO MEET OBJECTIONS. THE SHAMCHUN STREET SCHEME WILL NOT BE PURSUED FURTHER AND THIS HAS ALSO BEEN ENDORSED BY THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL.
THE "ARGYLE STREET/SHANGHAI STREET DEVELOPMENT SCHEME PLAN" WAS EXHIBITED BY THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION IN MARCH 1991 AFTER THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD WAS CONSULTED IN NOVEMBER, 1990.
THE DISTRICT BOARD HAS NO OBJECTION TO THE COMPREHENSIVE REDEVELOPMENT AS THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SCHEME PLAN WILL IMPROVE THE GENERAL ENVIRONMENT AND THE PROVISION OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES TN THE AREA.
THE SCHEME IS EXPECTED TO AFFECT ABOUT 2,200 PEOPLE AND 460
PROPERTY INTEREST.
/AT PRESENT.........
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
AT PRESENT, THE LDC IS ACQUIRING THE AFFECTED PROPERTIES THROUGH NEGOTIATION WITH THE PROPERTY OWNERS.
SHOULD IT BE UNABLE TO ACQUIRE ALL THE PROPERTIES AFFECTED, THE LDC MAY REQUEST THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS TO RECOMMEND TO THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL THE RESUMPTION OF LAND UNDER THE CROWN LANDS RESUMPTION ORDINANCE.
UNDER THE LDC ORDINANCE, THE SECRETARY MAY ONLY RECOMMEND RESUMPTION WHEN HE IS SATISFIED THAT THE LDC HAS TAKEN ALL REASONABLE STEPS TO ACQUIRE THE LAND ON FAIR AND REASONABLE TERMS BUT IS STILL UNABLE TO DO SO.
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TSUEN WAN REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT APPROVED
*****
THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD TODAY (FRIDAY) APPROVED AN APPLICATION BY THE HONG KONG HOUSING SOCIETY FOR REDEVELOPING AN OLD AREA IN TSUEN WAN IN A COMPREHENSIVE MANNER.
THE AREA, BOUNDED BY SHA TSUI ROAD, TAI HO ROAD, YEUNG UK ROAD AND WO TIK STREET, IS ABOUT TWO HECTARES.
WHEN REDEVELOPED, IT WILL HAVE MORE THAN OVER 1,000 RESIDENTIAL FLATS WITH RETAILING FACILITIES, A PUBLIC OPEN SPACE OF ABOUT 3,700 SQUARE METRES AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES, SUCH AS NURSERY, HOSTEL AND PUBLIC LIGHT BUS AND TAXI TERMINUS.
THE WHOLE PROJECT IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN MID-1999.
A GROUP OF PERSONS AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED REDEVELOPMENT SUBMITTED A PETITION LETTER TO THE BOARD TODAY.
THEIR CONCERNS OVER THE COMPENSATION AND REHOUSING ARRANGEMENTS WERE NOTED BY THE BOARD.
HOWEVER, THE BOARD CONSIDERED THAT COMPENSATION WAS A MATTER BETWEEN THE DEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND THOSE PERSONS AFFECTED WHEREAS THE BOARD WAS CONFINED TO CONSIDER THE MERITS OF THE PROPOSAL.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD SAID THE AREA HAD BEEN DESIGNATED AS COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT AREA (CDA) IN THE DRAFT TSUEN WAN OUTLINE ZONING PLAN BECAUSE IT WAS STRATEGICALLY LOCATED NEAR THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL AND TSUEN WAN TRANSPORT COMPLEX.
AT PRESENT, THE AREA IS PREDOMINANTLY OCCUPIED BY OBSOLESCENT, PRIVATE TENEMENT BUILDINGS CONSTRUCTED BEFORE 1966 WITH A RELATIVELY LOW DEVELOPMENT INTENSITY.
IT IS GENERALLY LACKING IN INFRASTRUCTURE, OPEN SPACE AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES.
/COMPREHENSIVE REDEVELOPMENT .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 8 -
COMPREHENSIVE REDEVELOPMENT WOULD PROVIDE IMPROVEMENT TO THE TOWN CENTRE AND WOULD BE BENEFICIAL TO THE COMMUNITY AT LARUE IN TSUEN WAN, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE DRAFT TSUEN WAN OUTLINE ZONING PLAN WAS EXHIBITED FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION IN OCTOBER 1990.
OBJECTIONS TO THE ZONING WERE CONSIDERED AND HEARD IN DECEMBER 1991 .
THE MAIN CONCERN OF THE OBJECTORS WAS RELATED TO THE COMPENSATION AND REHOUSING WHICH ARE OUTSIDE THE PURVIEW OF THE BOARD.
NEVERTHELESS, THE BOARD HAD THOROUGHLY CONSIDERED THE INTERESTS OF THOSE AFFECTED AND THE PUBLIC INTEREST WHICH COULD BE ACHIEVED THROUGH THE COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE AREA AND DECIDED NOT TO AMEND THE LAND USE ZONING.
THE MASTER LAYOUT PLAN SUBMITTED BY THE HOUSING SOCIETY WAS GENERALLY IN LINE WITH THE BOARD’S INTENTION TO REDEVELOP THE AREA COMPREHENSIVELY AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES ENDORSED BY THE BOARD.
SUBSEQUENT TO THE BOARD’S APPROVAL, THE MASTER LAYOUT PLAN WOULD BE DEPOSITED WITH THE LAND REGISTRY AND THE DEVELOPMENT AGENCY WOULD PROCEED WITH FURTHER NEGOTIATION WITH THE PERSONS AFFECTED.
- - 0----------
NEW FRANCHISE TO NEW LANTAO BUS
*****
THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL HAS GRANTED A NEW FRANCHISE TO THE NEW LANTAO BUS CO (NLB) TO CONTINUE OPERATING THE SEVEN EXISTING BUS ROUTES ON THE LANTAU ISLAND FOR A PERIOD OF TWO MORE YEARS FROM APRIL 1, 1995.
A NEW FRANCHISE RATHER THAN AN EXTENSION HAS BEEN GRANTED BECAUSE OF THE NEED TO UPDATE THE PROVISIONS IN THE FRANCHISE, PARTICULARLY THOSE RELATING TO THE GOVERNMENT’S MONITORING OF NLB’S BUS OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT.
IN LINE WITH THE FRANCHISES GRANTED TO CHINA MOTOR BUS AND CITY BUS LAST YEAR, THE NLB WILL BE REQUIRED TO ESTABLISH PASSENGER LIAISON GROUPS AS A MEASURE TO STRENGTHEN CUSTOMER LIAISON.
IT WILL ALSO BE REQUIRED TO PROVIDE THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WITH A COMPUTER TERMINAL TO OBTAIN UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ON BUS OPERATIONS FROM THE COMPANY’S MAIN COMPUTER.
ALSO, THE COMPANY WILL HAVE TO FOLLOW THE ACCOUNTING GUIDELINES AND PRACTICES LAID DOWN BY THE GOVERNMENT.
/DEPRECIATION RATES .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
9
DEPRECIATION RATES FOR NLB’S FIXED ASSETS WILL BE SPECIFIED AND DISPOSAL WILL REQUIRE PRIOR APPROVAL.
PROFITS GENERATED FROM THE NLB’S TOUR SERVICE WILL BE USED TO SUBSIDISE THE FRANCHISED OPERATION.
THE NEW FRANCHISE WILL ALSO EMPOWER THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT TO DIRECT THE NLB TO SHARE ITS TERMINI, BUS STOPS AND ASSOCIATED FACILITIES WITH ANOTHER BUS OPERATOR IN THE EVENT THAT AN ADDITIONAL OPERATOR IS CONSIDERED NECESSARY.
THE GRANT OF A NEW FRANCHISE TO THE NLB FOR TWO YEARS HAS BEEN SUPPORTED BY THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
GREEN PAPER ON EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES TO BE PUBLISHED ******
THE TEXT OF A GREEN PAPER ON EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN AND MEN IS BRING FINALISED AND WILL BE PUBLISHED FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION AT THE END OF AUGUST.
AT A MEETING OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SUB-COMMITTEE ON WOMEN’S AFFAIRS THIS (FRIDAY) MORNING, THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MRS STELLA HUNG,INFORMED MEMBERS THAT THE GREEN PAPER WOULD SERVE THREE MAIN PURPOSES.
AS A PUBLIC CONSULTATION DOCUMENT, IT IS A VEHICLE THROUGH WHICH MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY CAN EXPRESS VIEWS ON THE VARIOUS ISSUES INVOLVED.
SECONDLY, THE GREEN PAPER EXERCISE TO BE LAUNCHED NEXT MONTH ALSO HAS AN IMPORTANT EDUCATION VALUE.
THIRDLY, IT HELPS TO AROUSE PUBLIC INTEREST IN AND FOCUS PUBLIC ATTENTION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN, SHE SAID.
MRS HUNG SAID THE GOVERNMENT ADOPTED A NEUTRAL STAND IN THE PREPARATION OF THE GREEN PAPER.
EMPHASISING THE GOVERNMENT’S SINCERITY IN CONSULTING THE PUBLIC ON THIS IMPORTANT SUBJECT, MRS HUNG POINTED OUT THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD LIKE TO HEAR THE VIEWS OF VARIOUS SECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY AS THE STATUS OF WOMEN IN A SOCIETY IS, TO A LARGE EXTENT, DETERMINED BY THE ATTITUDES AND PERCEPTION OF ITS MEMBERS.
THE GREEN PAPER EXAMINES THE POLITICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CONDITIONS IN HONG KONG AND THE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE TO WOMEN IN DIFFERENT AREAS OF ACTIVITY.
/IT ATTEMPTS .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
10 -
IT ATTEMPTS TO ESTABLISH WHETHER, IN VIEW OF THE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE, WOMEN AND MEN PARTICIPATE EQUALLY IN ALL FIELDS. THE DOCUMENT ALSO SETS OUT SOME POSSIBLE MEASURES TO FOSTER EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES.
AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE GREEN PAPER, THE CONSULTATION PERIOD IS EXPECTED TO TAKE FOUR MONTHS AND WILL LAST UNTIL THE END OF THE YEAR.
------0----------
THREE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS GRANTED SELF-ACCREDITATION STATUS *****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS DECIDED TO ALLOW THREE LOCAL TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS TO ASSUME THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ACCREDITING THEIR OWN DEGREE COURSES, SUBJECT TO PERIODIC EXTERNAL REVIEWS OF THEIR QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROCESSES BY THE UNIVERSITY AND POLYTECHNIC GRANTS COMMITTEE (UPGC).
THE INSTITUTIONS ARE THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC (HKP), THE CITY POLYTECHNIC OF HONG KONG (CPHK) AND THE HONG KONG BAPTIST COLLEGE (HKBC).
ANNOUNCING THIS TODAY (FRIDAY), A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION AND MANPOWER BRANCH SAID THIS FOLLOWED THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE THREE PANELS SET UP BY UPGC IN MAY LAST YEAR TO CARRY OUT INSTITUTIONAL REVIEWS OF THESE INSTITUTIONS IN JANUARY 1993.
’’THE PANELS HAVE REPORTED FAVOURABLE ASSESSMENTS IN TERMS OF THEIR OVERALL INSTITUTIONAL PERFORMANCE, CULTURE FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE, INTERNAL ACADEMIC QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEMS, AND INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE PANELS’ RECOMMENDATIONS THAT THE HKP, THE CPHK AND THE HKBC SHOULD BE GRANTED SELF-ACCREDITATION STATUS WERE ENDORSED BY THE UPGC AT ITS APRIL MEETING THIS YEAR.
DETAILED ARRANGEMENT AND TIMING OF IMPLEMENTATION WILL BE WORKED OUT BY THE UPGC AFTER CONSULTATION WITH THE INSTITUTIONS CONCERNED.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO SAID THE UPGC WOULD UNDERTAKE, AT FIVE-YEARLY INTERVALS, EXTERNAL REVIEWS OF QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROCESSES, ATTITUDES AND PERFORMANCES AT ALL THE UPGC-FUNDED INSTITUTIONS.
THIS IS IN ADDITION TO REVIEWS OF SPECIFIC SUBJECT AREAS CONDUCTED BY THE UPGC REGULARLY.
’’THE OBJECTIVE IS TO ENSURE THAT SOUND AND EFFECTIVE QUALITY ASSURANCE AND IMPROVEMENT MECHANISMS ARE IN PLACE IN ALL UNIVERSITIES AND UPGC-FUNDED NON-UNI VERS ITY TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS," HE SAID.
/Il ........
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 11 -
FINAL ACCOUNTS FOR 1992/93 PUBLISHED ******
THE GOVERNMENT’S Fl NAI ACCOUNTS FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1992/93, WHICH ENDED ON MARCH 31, 1993, WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE OVERALL SURPLUS FOR 1992/93 WAS $21.98 BILLION, WHICH IS CLOSE TO THE REVISED ESTIMATE OF $20.55 BILLION FOR SURPLUS GIVEN IN THE 1993 BUDGET SPEECH.
’’THIS BRINGS THE TOTAL FISCAL RESERVES AT MARCH 3 1 1993 TO JUST OVER $121 BILLION,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE NOTED THAT THE ADDITIONAL SURPLUS ABOVE THE REVISED ESTIMATE WAS MADE UP OF A NUMBER OF MINOR. VARIANCES IN BOTH REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE.
’’TOTAL REVENUE FOR THE YEAR AMOUNTED COMPARED TO A REVISED ESTIMATE OF $135.65 EXPENDITURE WAS $113.33 BILLION, COMPARED TO \ $115.10 BILLION,” HE SAID.
TO $135.31 BILLION, BILLION WHILE TOTAL REVISED ESTIMATE OF
---------0-----------
SANCTIONS AGAINST SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO STRENGTHENED
*****
AS FROM TOMORROW (SATURDAY), A LICENCE ISSUED BY THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE IS REQUIRED FOR ANY IMPORTS FROM, EXPORTS TO OR TRANSHIPMENT THROUGH CROATIA AND BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA.
THE REQUIREMENT WAS CONTAINED IN THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (GENERAL) REGULATIONS (AMENDMENT OF SCHEDULES) ORDER 1993 GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
"THE FIRST AND SECOND SCHEDULES OF THE ORDER WERE REVISED TO IMPLEMENT THE SANCTIONS IMPOSED UNDER PARAGRAPH 12 OF RESOLUTION 820 (1993) ADOPTED BY THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL ON APRIL 17 THIS YEAR TO TIGHTEN SANCTIONS AGAINST SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO,” PRINCIPAL TRADE OFFICER, MR JOHN LEUNG, EXPLAINED.
IN PURSUANCE OF THE UNITED NATIONS RESOLUTION, THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE WOULD NORMALLY REFUSE TO ISSUE LICENCES COVERING IMPORTS FROM, EXPORTS TO OR TRANSHIPMENT THROUGH THE UNITED NATIONS PROTECTED AREAS IN CROATIA AND SERB-OCCUPIED AREAS IN BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA, HE SAID.
EXCEPTIONS WILL ONLY BE MADE TO GOODS THAT ARE ESSENTIAL HUMANITARIAN SUPPLIES DISTRIBUTED BY INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN AGENCIES OR GOODS THAT HAVE OBTAINED PROPER AUTHORISATION FROM THE GOVERNMENTS OF CROATIA AND BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA RESPECTIVELY.
THE TRADE DEPARTMENT HAS PUBLISHED A CIRCULAR GIVING OUT DETAILS OF THE AMENDED SCHEDULES TO TRADERS, ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 398 5461 (FOR TEXTILES IMPORTS), 398 5171 (FOR TEXTILES EXPORTS) AND 398 5592 (FOR NON-TEXTILES IMPORTS AND EXPORTS).
- - 0 - -
FRIDAY, JULY 2.3, 1993
12
FINANCE COMMITTEE APPROVES EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES FOR MARICULTURI STS * * * * *
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE, AT ITS MEETING TODAY (FRIDAY), APPROVED A PROPOSAL FOR THE PAYMENT OF EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES TO MAR ICULTURISTS AFFECTED BY DREDGING OR DUMPING PROJECTS, IN (’I RCUMSTANCES OTHER THAN EXTINGUISHMENT.
COMMENTING ON THE PROPOSAL, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID AS SUCH CURRENT PROJECTS IN INSHORE WATERS MA5! CAUSE TEMPORARY DETERIORATION IN WATER QUALITY IN CERTAIN FISH CULTURE ZONES, SOME MARICULTURISTS MAY SUFFER TEMPORARY ECONOMIC LOSS.
HOWEVER, THERE IS NO EXISTING PROVISION FOR PAYMENT OF EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES To MAR ICULTURI STS IN CIRCUMSTANCES OTHER 1 HAN EXTINGUISHMENT’ AND RELOCATION.
THE PROPOSAL THEREFORE RECOMMENDS THAT MARICULTURISTS SHOULD BE ELIGIBLE FOR EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES WHEN THE CONCENTRATION OF SOLID MATTER SUSPENDED IN THE AFFECTED WATERS OF FISH CULTURE ZONES EITHER :
* REACHES 100 PER (’ENT MORE THAN THE HIGHEST LEVEL RECORDED AT THE ZONE DURING THE FIVE YEARS BEFORE WORKS IN THE VICINITY START; OR
* REACHES 50 MG PER LITRE.
ELIGIBLE MARICULTURI STS WOULD BE REQUIRED TO MAKE AN IRREVOCABLE OPTION BEFORE ANY EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCE IS PAID. THEY WOULD BE ABLE TO OPT TO :
* CONTINUE MARICULTURE IN THE SAME PLACE AT THEIR OWN RISK, IN WHICH CASE THEN WOULD BE ELIGIBLE FOR AN EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCE EQUIVALENT TO 50 PER CENT OF NOTIONAL LOSS OF INCOME FOR A NORMAL TWO-YEAR FISH CULTURE CYCLE; OR
* SUSPEND MARICULTURE OPERATIONS FOR TWO YEARS, IN WHICH CASE THEY WOULD BE ELIGIBLE FOR AN EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCE EQUIVALENT TO NOTIONAL LOSS OF INCOME FOR A NORMAL TWO-YEAR FISH CULTURE CYCLE; OR
* CEASE MARTCULTURE OPERATIONS PERMANENTLY, IN WHICH CASE THEY WOULD RECEIVE THE EXISTING EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCE PAYABLE FOR EXTINGUISHMENT, WHICH CONTAINS ELEMENTS FOR NOTIONAL LOSS OF INCOME FOR TWO YEARS AND LOSS OF CAPITAL INVESTMENT IN RAFTS AND (’AGES.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE OPTION WAS MADE IRREVOCABLE FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SIMPLICITY AND TO PREVENT ABUSE AND THAT THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, AS THE REGULATORY AUTHORITY FOR FISH CULTURE, WOULD ENSURE COMPLIANCE.
THE EFFECTIVE DATE FOR THE NEW EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCES WILL BE BACKDATED TO DECEMBER 1, 1992. THIS WILL ENABLE ALL MAR ICULTURJ STS WHO MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE CURRENT PROGRAMME OF WORKS TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SUBMIT CLAIMS IF ELIGIBLE TO DO SO.
THE MAXIMUM FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR TH IS EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCE ARRANGEMENT IS ESTIMATED TO BE AROUND $66.5 MILLION.
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 13 -
WAGE INDICES FOR MARCH * t * t t
THE OVERALL NOMINAL WAGE INDEX FOR MARCH THIS YEAR WAS 11.2 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN MARCH LAST YEAR, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
AFTER DISCOUNTING FOR INFLATION, THE OVERALL REAL WAGE INDEX FOR MARCH 1993 SHOWED AN INCREASE OF 3.2 PER CENT OVER MARCH 1992.
COMPARING MARCH 1993 WITH SEPTEMBER 1992, THE OVERALL WAGES SHOWED AN INCREASE OF 5.6 PER CENT IN NOMINAL TERMS. AFTER DISCOUNTING FOR INFLATION, THERE WAS AN INCREASE OF 2.6 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS.
ANALYSED BY INDIVIDUAL SECTORS, THE NOMINAL WAGE INDEX IN TRANSPORT SERVICES SHOWED THE FASTEST YEAR-ON-YEAR RATE OF INCREASE (12.6%), FOLLOWED BY BUSINESS SERVICES (12.1%), MANUFACTURING (11.3%), PERSONAL SERVICES (8.9%), AND WHOLESALE, RETAIL, 1MPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS (8.2%).
COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1992, AND BEARING IN MIND THIS COMPARISON COULD BE AFFECTED B> SEASONAL FACTORS, THE LARGEST INCREASE WAS RECORDED IN THE BUSINESS SERVICES (10.2%), FOLLOWED BY MANUFACTURING (5.1%), WHOLESALE, RETAIL, IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS (5.1%), PERSONAL SERVICES (4.7%), AND TRANSPORT SERVICES (3.6%).
THE WAGE INDICES ARE DERIVED FROM THE RESULTS OF THE HALF-YEARLY SURVEY OF WAGES, SALARIES AND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATI ST H'S DEPARTMENT.
THE SURVEY (’OVERS BOTH MANUAL AND NON-MANUAL WORKERS (EXCLUDING EMPLOYEES AT ADMINISTRATIVE AND PROFESSIONAL LEVELS) TN SELECTED INDUSTRIES IN FIVE MAJOR ECONOMIC SECTORS.
A NEW SURVEY DESIGN WAS ADOPTED IN THE MARCH 1993 SURVEY WITH CHANGES MADE TO ITS INDUSTRY AND OCCUPATION COVERAGE. THE RASE PERIOD OF THE WAGE INDICES, PREVIOUSLY TAKEN AS MARCH 1982, HAS BEEN (’HANGED TO SEPTEMBER 1992.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT DREW ATTENTION TO THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE WAGE INDICES AND THE INDICES OF PAYROLL PER PERSON ENGAGED WHICH ARE PUBLISHED QUARTERLY.
HE POINTED OUT THAT IN ADDITION TO WAGES WHICH INCLUDE ALL THE REGULAR PAYMENTS, PAYROLL ALSO INCLUDES OVERTIME PAY AND OTHER NONGUARANTEED AND IRREGULAR BONUSES AND ALLOWANCE.
HENCE, STATISTICS ON PAYROLL PER PERSON ENGAGED TEND TO BE SENSITIVE TO CHANGES IN THE NUMBER OF HOURS ACTUALLY WORKED, THE TIMING OF THE PAYMENT OF BONUSES AND BACK-PAY, AND THE COMPOSITION OF THE LABOUR FORCE.
/THE SURVEY .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 14 -
THE SURVEY FINDINGS ARE PUBLISHED IN A REPORT ON HALF-YEARLY SURVEY OF WAGES, SALARIES AND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS STATISTICS, VOLUME I, MARCH 1993.
COPIES OF THE REPORT WILL BE ON SALE SHORTLY AT $16 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE; AND AT THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
VOLUME II OF THE REPORT CONTAINING DETAILED OCCUPATIONAL STATISTICS, SUCH AS WAGE RATES, NUMBER OF NORMAL HOURS OF WORK AND NUMBER OF STANDARD WORKING DAYS IS EXPECTED TO BE AVAILABLE IN MIDAUGUST 1993.
FOR ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE WAGE INDICES, PLEASE CONTACT THE WAGES AND LABOUR COSTS STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 582 4744 OR 582 5595.
THE NOMINAL AND REAL WAGE INDICES FOR THE PERIOD MARCH 1992 TO MARCH 1993 FOR SELECTED MAJOR ECONOMIC SECTORS ARE GIVEN IN TABLE 1 AND TABLE 2 RESPECTIVELY.
DETAILED BREAKDOWNS OF THE NOMINAL WAGE INDEX FOR THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR ARE GIVEN IN TABLE 3.
/Table 1: .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
15
Table 1: Nominal Wage Indices by Selected Major Economic Sectors
Indices (September 1992 = 100)
Selected Major Economic Sectors Mar. 1992* Sep. 1992 Mar. 1993 % change Mar. 1993/ Sep. 1992 % change Mar. 1993/ Mar. 1992*
Manufacturing 94.4 100.0 105.1 + 5.1 +11.3
Wholesale, Retail, Import/Export Trades, Restaurants and Hotels 97.2 100.0 105.1 +5.1 +8.2
Transport Services 92.0 100.0 103.6 +3.6 +12.6
Business Services 98.3 100.0 110.2 +10.2 +12.1
Personal Services 96.1 100.0 104.7 + 4.7 +8.9
All Sectors Above 95.0 100.0 105.6 +5.6 +11.2
* The March 1992 indices (September 1992 = 100) are obtained from the March 1992 indices (March 1982 = 100) by using the splicing method. Note that comparison of the March 1992 and March 1993 figures are affected by differences in industry and occupation coverages.
/Table 2: .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 16 -
Table 2: Real Wage Indices by Selected Major Economic Sectors
Selected Major Economic Sectors Indices (September 1992 = 100)
Mar. 1992* Sep. 1992 Mar. 1993 % change Mar. 1993/ Sep. 1992 % change Mar. 1993/ Mar. 1992*
Manufacturing 98.8 100.0 102.1 + 2.1 +3.4
Wholesale, Retail, Import/Export Trades, Restaurants and Hotels 101.8 100.0 102.2 +2.2 +0.4
Transport Services 96.3 100.0 100.6 +0.6 +4.5
Business Services 102.9 100.0 107.1 +7.1 +4.1
Personal Services 100.7 100.0 101.7 + 1.7 +1.0
All Sectors Above 99.5 100.0 102.6 +2.6 +3.2
* The March 1992 indices (September 1992 = 100) are obtained from the March 1992 indices (March 1982 = 100) by using the splicing method. Note that comparison of the March 1992 and March 1993 figures are affected by differences in industry and occupation coverages.
/Table 3: .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
17
Table 3: Nominal Kage Indices for Major Industries in
Manufacturing Sector
V
Indices (September 1992 f 100)
Major Industries in Manufacturing Sector Mar. 1992* Sep. 1992 Mar. 1993 % change \\ Mar. 1993/' Sep. 1992 % change Mar. 1993/ Mar. 1992*
Garments 94.4 100.0 102.2 +2.2 +8.2
Cotton Spinning and Weaving 98.4 100.0 106.3 +6.3 +8.0
Cotton Knitting and Knit Outerwear 95.1 100.0 102.7 +2.7 +8.0
Bleaching and Dyeing 93.2 100.0 102.8 +2.8 + 10.3
Paper Boxes 93.6 100.0 101.1 + 1.1 + 8.0
Printing 92.6 100.0 106.4 +6.4 +15.0
Plastic Products (excluding plastic toys) 100.0 104.0 +4.0 -
Plastic Toys - 100.0 104.0 +4.0 -
Metal Products - 100.0 106.7 +6.7 -
Electrical Appliances 94.9 100.0 106.8 +6.8 +12.6
Electronics 93.5 100.0 113.5 + 13.5 +21.4
Photographic and Optical Goods 99.4 100.0 107.9 +7.9 +8.5
Watches and Clocks 94.3 100.0 107.3 +7.3 +13.7
Jewellery 94.9 100.0 107.3 +7.3 +13.0
Manufacturing Sector 94.4 100.0 105.1 +5.1 +11.3
* The March 1992 indices (September 1992 = 100) are obtained from the March 1992 indices (March 1982 = 100) by using the splicing method. Note that comparison of the March 1992 and March 1993 figures are affected by differences in industry and occupation coverages.
------0--------
/IB ........
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
18 -
AIDS IS EVERYBODY’S CONCERN *****
AIDS IS A PROBLEM WHICH CONCERNS EVERYBODY AS THE RISE OE HETEROSEXUAL TRANSMISSION OE THE AIDS VIRUS (HIV) HAS BECOME THE MOST DOMINANT FEATURE OF THE AIDS PROBLEM IN THE TERRITORY.
THIS IS THE MESSAGE THAT THIS YEAR’S AIDS AWARENESS CAMPAIGN WANTS TO PROMOTE.
ACTING DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR MARGARET CHAN, AT A PRESS LAUNCH OF THE 1993 AIDS AWARENESS CAMPAIGN TODAY (FRIDAY), SAID TWO NEW TV ANNOUNCEMENTS IN PUBLIC INTEREST (API’S) WOULD BE INTRODUCED.
DR CHAN SAID: "THE API’S FOCUS ON THE TRANSMISSION OF HIV BETWEEN MEN AND WOMEN, AND POSSIBLY FROM A MOTHER TO A CHILD."
"OUR NEW API’S DO NOT GIVE OUT HARD FACTS LIKE WHAT WE DID IN THE PAST. INSTEAD, THE AUDIENCE WOULD BE FACED WITH A SERIES OF QUESTIONS, WHICH WOULD VERY LIKELY LEAD TO SELF-ASSESSMENT OF HOW AIDS COULD CONCERN HIM - OR HERSELF,” SHE ADDED.
DR CHAN POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS THE FIRST TIME THAT THE AIDS CAMPAIGN WAS DEVELOPED BY A PRIVATE ADVERTISING AGENCY - MCCANN ERICKSON (HK) LTD.
SHE MAINTAINED THAT THIS REFLECTED ALSO ON HOW THE PARTICULARLY THE PROFESSIONALS, COULD BE INVOLVED IN AGAINST AIDS.
COMMUNITY, OUR FIGHT
NOTING THAT "TIME TO ACT" HAD BEEN SET AS THE THEME OF THE
COMING WORLD AIDS DAY, DR CHAN SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS RESPONDING TO THIS CALL BY FINE-TUNING ITS EXPANDED AIDS PROGRAMME TO REACH
EVERYONE IN THE SOCIETY.
SHE EMPHASISED THAT MEDIA PUBLICITY REPRESENTED ONLY ONE ASPECT OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAMME ON AIDS PREVENTION AND CARE IN THE TERRITORY AND THERE WERE SUPPORTIVE EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT AND THE COMMUNITY TARGETING DIFFERENT SECTORS OF THE SOCIETY.
THE CHAIRMAN AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE MCCANN ERICKSON, MR KINGSLEY SMITH, SAID THE OVERALL MESSAGE OF THE TV API’S WAS "THINK ABOUT AIDS. IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU”.
MR SMITH SAID: "OUR TASK WAS TO CONVINCE PEOPLE TO TAKE THE RISK OF CONTRACTING AIDS MORE SERIOUSLY, AND TO ENSURE THAT THEY AND THEIR FAMILY AND FRIENDS WERE EQUALLY AWARE.”
MR SMITH RECALLED THAT THERE WERE THREE PROBLEMS IN DEVELOPING AN ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN CONCERNING AIDS.
HE SAID: "THE FIRST OF THESE WAS THE NATURAL COMPLACENCY THAT EXISTS, THE FEELING THAT "IT CAN’T HAPPEN TO ME, OR TO EVERYONE IN MY FAMILY IN SOCIAL CIRCLE".
/HE STRESSED .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 19 -
HE STRESSED THAT THE MISCONCEPTION THAT AIDS WAS CAUGHT BY THOSE WHO LIVED AN IMMORAL LIKE REINFORCED THE FIRST PROBLEM SINCE MOST PEOPLE REGARDED THEMSELVES AS DECENT PERSONS.
HE SAID THIS COMPLACENCY WAS VERY DANGEROUS AS PEOPLE WHO BELIEVED THAT AIDS COULD NOT HAPPEN TO THEM MAY NOT BE INCLINED TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS.
MR SMITH ENVISAGED THAT THE USE OF FEAR OR SENSATIONALISM
WOULD FURTHER ALIENATE THE PUBLIC FROM THE ISSUE AND THEREFORE THE
AGENCY DECIDED TO STIMULATE DISCUSSION IN A RATIONAL, BUT WAY, REFLECTING THE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH THE TV API’S SEEN - THE HOME.
IMPACTFUL
WOULD BE
HE SAID SUCH AN APPROACH WOULD HELP TO GET ACROSS THE IDEA THAT AIDS WAS A FAMILY ISSUE, WHICH SHOULD BE ADDRESSED BY THE FAMILY OPENLY.
MR SMITH CONCLUDED: ”1F WE CAN GET PEOPLE TO THINK ABOUT AIDS, OUR BELIEF IS THAT WE WILL HAVE SUCCEEDED IN HELPING TO CHECK THE SPREAD OF THIS TERRIBLE DISEASE IN HONG KONG.
IN ADDITION TO THE TWO TV API’S, RADIO API’S, SUPPORTING POSTERS AND LEAFLETS WHICH CARRIED THE SAME MESSAGE ARE ALSO PRODUCED.
--------0------------
APPLICATIONS FOR CROSS-BORDER ♦ ♦ t t t t ♦
BUS/HTRE CAR SERVICE
t ♦
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT IS INVITING APPLICATIONS FROM OPREATORS WHO INTEND TO PROVIDE CROSS-BORDER BUS AND HIRE CAR SERVICES BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA THROUGH LOK MA CHAU CONTROL POINT.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID ALL \PPLICATTONS SHOULD BE
MADE IN WRITING GIVING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:
♦ APPLICANT’S PERSONAL PARTICULARS, THAT IS NAME, IDENTITY DOCUMENT, ADDRESS AND CONTACT TELEPHONE NUMBER, AND IN THE CASE OF A COMPANY, THE NAME OF THE PERSON(S) TO BE CONTACTED AND INFORMATION ON COMPANY REGISTRATION;
* DESCRIPTION OF THE NATURE OF THE SERVICE, WITH THE NUMBER OF VEHICLES AND THEIR TYPE AND SEATING CAPACITY;
♦ PROPOSED SCHEDULES OF CROSSINGS BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA, CROSSING TIME AT LOK MA CHAU CONTROL POINT, ROUTEING AND TERMINAL FACILITIES IN RESPECT OF CROSS-BORDER COACH SERVICE; AND
/* DETAILS OF ........
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 20 -
♦ DETAILS OF PARTNERSHIP ARRANGEMENTS, THAT IS NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF HONG KONG AND MAINLAND PARTNERS AND DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE OF APPROVAL FROM THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES FOR PROVIDING CROSS-BORDER BUS/HIRE CAR SERVICE.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT APPLICANTS SHOULD SUBMIT SIMULTANEOUS •APPLICATIONS TO THE PUBLIC VEHICLE SECTION OF THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT AT ROOM 28, MEZZANINE FLOOR, MURRAY ROAD MULTI-STOREY CARPARK
BUILDING, 2 MURRAY ROAD, HONG KONG, AND THE COUNTRY PORT OF PEOPLE’S GOVERNMENT OF SHENZHEN PORT OFFICE ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 7, 1993.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 801 5991.
--------0-----------
REVISED GUIDELINE ON MONEY LAUNDERING ISSUED * * * * ♦
THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY (HKMA) TODAY (FRIDAY) ISSUED A REVISED GUIDELINE ON MONEY LAUNDERING FOLLOWING THE PRIVY COUNCIL RULING ON MAY 19 THIS YEAR WHICH RESTORED THE LEGAL OBLIGATION ON AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS TO REPORT SUSPECTED CASES OF DRUG-RELATED MONEY LAUNDERING.
THE REVISED GUIDELINE GAZETTED TODAY REPLACES THE ONE THAT HAS BEEN IN FORCE SINCE MARCH 1989.
"IT PROVIDES MORE DETAILED ADVICE TO AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS ON HOW TO RECOGNISE AND COMBAT MONEY LAUNDERING," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HKMA SAID.
"IT WILL HELP TO ENSURE THAT HONG KONG REMAINS IN LINE WITH INTERNATIONAL STANDARD IN THE FIGHT AGAINST MONEY LAUNDERING," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE GUIDELINE HAS TAKEN ACCOUNT OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE FINANCIAL ACTION TASK FORCE.
IT HAS ALSO BEEN THE SUBJECT OF EXTENSIVE CONSULTATION WITH INTERESTED PARTIES, INCLUDING THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF BANKS AND THE DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES ASSOCIATION.
"EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THAT THE REVISED GUIDELINE IS A RELEVANT AND COMPREHENSIVE DOCUMENT. WE BELIEVE THAT IT COMMANDS THE GENERAL SUPPORT OF THE BANKING INDUSTRY," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"ALL AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS ARE EXPECTED TO HAVE IN PLACE INTERNAL CONTROLS TO ENABLE THEM TO COMPLY WITH THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE GUIDELINE," HE SAID.
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/21 .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 21 -
PUBLIC URGED TO HANDLE LPG INSTALLATIONS WITH CARE * * * * *
THE PUBLIC ARE BEING URGED TO HANDLE GAS INSTALLATIONS SUCH AS LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LPG) CYLINDERS, COOKERS AND WATER HEATERS WITH CARE.
THE APPEAL WAS MADE BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES (GAS STANDARDS OFFICE), MR CHAN SUI-JEUNG, AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (FRIDAY).
MR CHAN POINTED OUT THAT SINCE MAY THIS YEAR, 21 PEOPLE WERE INJURED AND TWO WERE KILLED IN 12 FIRES INVOLVING LPG INSTALLATIONS.
HE SAID THE MAIN CAUSE OF THE ACCIDENTS WAS MISHANDLING OF GAS INSTALLATIONS AND LEAKAGE FROM GAS FITTINGS OR APPLIANCES.
THE LEAKAGE WAS MAINLY CAUSED BY CRACKED RUBBER TUBING, THE JAMMING OPEN OF LPG CYLINDER VALVES, IMPROPER FITTING OF REGULATORS AND MISUSE OF LPG CYLINDERS.
MR CHAN NOTED THAT THE INCIDENTS COULD HAVE BEEN AVOIDED THROUGH PROPER MAINTENANCE AND CAREFUL HANDLING OF THE INSTALLATIONS AND APPLIANCES.
"CRACKING OF A RUBBER TUBE IS OFTEN CAUSED BY "AGEING" OF THE TUBE. ALL RUBBER TUBES, AS PREVIOUSLY ADVISED BY THE GAS AUTHORITY, SHOULD BE REPLACED EVERY THREE YEARS,” HE ADDED.
MR CHAN EXPLAINED THAT THE LIFE-SPAN OF A RUBBER TUBE COULD BE CHECKED BY REFERRING TO THE MARKINGS ON THE TUBE.
"LPG USERS SHOULD USE ONLY APPROVED TUBES WHICH HAVE THE MARKING OF GSO-RT-2. ALL TUBES WITHOUT THE MARKING SHOULD BE REPLACED BY A REGISTERED GAS CONTRACTOR," HE ADVISED.
HE FURTHER POINTED OUT THAT IMPROPER FITTING OF RUBBER TUBING COULD ALSO CAUSE A GAS LEAK. UNDER THE GAS SAFETY ORDINANCE ALL GAS INSTALLATION WORK MUST BE CARRIED OUT BY A REGISTERED GAS CONTRACTOR.
ON CYLINDER VALVE, MR. CHAN SAID IT COULD BE JAMMED OPEN BY GRITS OR FOREIGN MATERIALS WHEN THE SEAL OF THE VALVE WAS REMOVED.
"THE VALVE SHOULD ALWAYS BE KEPT CLEAN. WHEN THE REGULATOR IS DISCONNECTED FROM THE VALVE FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME THE VALVE MUST BE CHECKED BEFORE USING," HE ADDED.
IN THE EVENT OF A GAS LEAK, MR CHAN ADVISED THE PUBLIC NOT TO TRY TO TAMPER WITH THE VALVE OR STOP THE LEAK BY THEMSELVES.
"THEY SHOULD CALL Till- FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT (PSD) OR A GAS SUPPLY COMPANY," HE SAID.
HE ALSO WARNED THE PUBLIC AGAINST PUTTING LPG CYLINDERS ON OR NEAR ANY HEAT SOURCES AS HEATING UP OF THE CYLINDERS BY EXTERNAL SOURCES WAS VERY DANGEROUS.
/IN CASE .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 22 -
IN CASE OF A GAS LEAK FROM LPG CYLINDERS AND APPLIANCES, MR CHAN CONTINUED, PEOPLE SHOULD NOT BE PANIC OR IGNITE ANY HEAT SOURCES, OR TOUCH ANY ELECTRICAL SWITCH.
’’THEY SHOULD IMMEDIATELY TURN OFF THE REGULATOR SWITCH, OPEN ALL THE WINDOWS, LEAVE THE HOUSE AND CALL THE FSD,” HE NOTED.
HE REMINDED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO TURN OFF ALL THE SWITCHES WHEN THEY WERE NOT USING A HOTPLATE OR WERE GOING OUT.
ANYONE IN DOUBT OF THE CONDITIONS OF HIS LPG APPLIANCES OR CYLINDERS SHOULD HAVE THE INSTALLATIONS CHECKED BY A REGISTERED GAS CONTRACTOR, HE SAID.
A LIST OF REGISTERED GAS CONTRACTORS IS KEPT AT THE GAS STANDARDS OFFICE OF THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND ENQUIRY CAN BE MADE ON TEL 895 8775.
--------0-----------
APPOINTMENTS TO HK EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY
*****
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT MR KENNETH FANG HUNG HAS BEEN REAPPOINTED AS CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY FOR A THREE-YEAR TERM WITH EFFECT FROM NEXT MONTH.
MR FANG, A BUSINESSMAN, HAS SERVED AS A MEMBER OF THE AUTHORITY SINCE 1979, AND AS CHAIRMAN SINCE 1990.
THE DEPUTY CHAIRMAN WILL BE MR TAM MAN-KWAN, PRINCIPAL OF YUEN LONG PAK KAU SECONDARY SCHOOL. MR TAM HAS SERVED AS A MEMBER OF THE AUTHORITY SINCE 1981.
THE FOLLOWING SERVING MEMBERS HAVE ALSO BEEN RE-APPOINTED:
* A PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER
* MRS ELIM LAU, PRINCIPAL OF DIOCESAN GIRLS’ SCHOOL
t MR PETER LEE SHUNG-TAK, PRINCIPAL OF CARITAS ST. FRANCIS PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOL
* MRS WINNIE HUNG LAM WING-YAN, A TEACHER IN ST. MARY’S CANOSSIAN COLLEGE
* DR ALEXANDER FUNG CHI-WAH, PRINCIPAL OF LOK SIN TONG KU CHIU MAN SECONDARY SCHOOL
* MR LEE PUN-CHO, PRINCIPAL OF LEE KAU YAN MEMORIAL SCHOOL
* DR LUI MING-WAH, A BUSINESSMAN
/* MRS YAN .........
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
23
* MRS YAN HO SIU-WAN, A TEACHER IN YAN CHAI HOSPITAL LIM POR YEN SECONDARY SCHOOL
* DR TSE KA-KU!, A BUSINESSMAN
* MR CHAN PUI-TIN, A TEACHER IN WAII YAN COLLEGE
* MRS ALICE CHENG YAU SHUK-KI, PRINCIPAL OF NORTHCOTE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
THE FOLLOWING WILL CONTINUE TO SERVE AS EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS:
* VICE-CHANCELLOR OF EACH UNIVERSITY ESTABLISHED IN HONG KONG BY ENACTMENT, OR HIS REPRESENTATIVE
♦ DIRECTOR OF EACH POLYTECHNIC ESTABLISHED IN HONG KONG BY ENACTMENT, OR HIS REPRESENTATIVE
* PRESIDENT OF THE HONG KONG BAPTIST COLLEGE, OR HIS REPRESENTATIVE
* PRESIDENT OF THE LTNGNAN COLLEGE, OR HIS REPRESENTATIVE
* CHAIRMAN OF THE CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, OR HIS REPRESENTATIVE
* EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL, OR HIS REPRESENTATIVE
* DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, OR HIS REPRESENTATIVE
* SECRETARY OF THE AUTHORITY
THE ABOVE APPOINTMENTS ARE ALSO FOR A THREE-YEAR TERM STARTING AUGUST 1 THIS YEAR.
---------0------------
WSD CUSTOMER LIAISON GROUP HOLDS FIRST MEETING ♦ ♦♦♦♦♦
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT HAS TAKEN A MAJOR STEP FORWARD TO PROMO IE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT AND ITS CUSTOMERS BY FORMING A CUSTOMER LIAISON GROUP.
THE FORMATION OF THE LIAISON GROUP REPRESENTS ANOTHER EFFORTS MADE BY THE DEPARTMENT '1’0 FURTHER IMPROVE CI’S SERVICES '1’0 THE PUBLIC.
THE GROUP IS CHAIRED BY IHI’ DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES, MR WU YU-NGONG, AND COMPRISES 20 CUSTOMER MEMBERS RANDOMLY SELECTED FROM THE COMPUTERISED DATABASE OF WATER CONSUMER ACCOUNTS.
/FIFTEEN OF .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
24 -
FIFTEEN OF THEM WERE SELECTED FROM DOMESTIC CONSUMERS OF DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS, WHILE THE REMAINING FIVE FROM SOME 6,000 MONTHLY-BILLED TRADE CONSUMERS.
THE GROUP HELD ITS FIRST MEETING THIS (FRIDAY) EVENING.
ALSO PRESENT AT THE MEETING WERE THREE ASSISTANT DIRECTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR ADMINISTRATION AND PLANNING, AS WELL AS SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION, A BUSINESS MANAGER AND THE SENIOR STAFF MEMBERS.
AT THE MEETING, MEMBERS OF THE GROUP WERE BRIEFED ON THE ORGANISATION AND FUNCTIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT. THIS WAS FOLLOWED BY DISCUSSIONS ON CONSTRUCTIVE SUGGESTIONS AND COMMENTS RAISED BY THE MEMBERS.
THE MEETING CONCLUDED WITH A DINNER HOSTED BY THE CHAIRMAN AND THE DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES, MR HU MAN-SHIU.
THE GROUP’S SECOND MEETING HAS BEEN SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER, ON A QUARTERLY BASIS.
i
RESERVOIR SITE FORMATION STARTS IN OCTOBER !
*****
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE SITE FORMATION WORKS OF THE TUNG CHUNG FRESH WATER RESERVOIR.
t
THE RESERVOIR IS PART OF THE PROJECT TO PROVIDE WATER TO NORTH LANTAU AND TO ALLOW WATER TRANSFER BETWEEN NORTH AND SOUTH LANTAU.
OTHER WORKS ITEMS OF THE PROJECT, WHICH FORM PART OF THEi AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME, INCLUDE A WATER TREATMENT PLANT, PUMPING! STATIONS, RAW WATER LAND AND SUBMARINE MAINS AND DISTRIBUTION? WATER MAINS.
THE SERVICE RESERVOIR WILL HAVE AN INITIAL CAPACITY OF 40,000 CUBIC METRES AND AN ULTIMATE CAPACITY OF 75,000 CUBIC METRES TO PROVIDE TREATED WATER TO THE EXISTING COMMUNITY IN TUNG CHUNG, THE TUNG CHUNG NEW TOWN AND THE NEW AIRPORT.
$
THE SITE FORMATION WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO START IN OCTOBER,' TAKING 10 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE CONSULTANTS’ OFFICE ON THE THIRD FLOOR, ASIAN HOUSE, 1 HENNESSY ROAD,f WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
f
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING TENDERS IS NOON ON AUGUST 20.
0
/25........... J
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 25 -
FARES FOR TWO MINIBUS ROUTES UP *****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM SUNDAY (JULY 25), THE FARES OF KOWLOON GREEN MINIBUS ROUTES 38M AND 39M WILL BE INCREASED BY 10 CENTS.
THE REVISION IS TO IMPROVE THEIR FINANCIAL VIABILITY.
THE NEW FARES ARE:
GMB ROUTE NEW FARE EXISTING FARE
38M CHUK YUEN (NORTH) $1.70 $1.60
ESTATE TO WONG TAI SIN MTR STATION (SHATIN PASS ROAD)
39M LOK FU MTR STATION $1.80 $1.70
TO TUNG TAU (CIRCULAR)
------0------------
LAYING OF SUBMARINE CABLE PROPOSED *****
SUBMARINE CABLE WILL BE LAID BETWEEN PENG CHAU AND HEI LING CHAU TO IMPROVE THE TELEPHONE SERVICE FOR THE TWO ISLANDS.
UNDER THE PROJECT, THE HONG KONG TELECOMMUNICATIONS LIMITED INTENDS TO LAY AN OPTICAL FIBRE SUBMARINE CABLE WITHIN AN AREA OF ABOUT 25 HECTARES OF FORESHORE AND SEABED BETWEEN PENG CHAU AND HEI LING CHAU.
THE WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO START IN OCTOBER FOR COMPLETION IN JANUARY NEXT YEAR.
THE EXTENT OF THE AFFECTED AREA 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 SEPTEMBER 23 THIS YEAR.
THE NOTICE TOGETHER WITH THE RELATED PLAN CAN BE SEEN ON NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITE.
/THE PLAN .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 26 -
THE PLAN CAN ALSO BE SEEN AT:
* BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD;
* ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE, 20TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL;
♦ THE MUI WO SUB-OFFICE OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, MUI WO GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 2 NGAN KWONG WAN ROAD, MUI WO, LANTAU ISLAND; AND
* CHEUNG CHAU SUB-OFFICE OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, 22 SAN HING STREET, (HEUNG CHAU.
COPIES OF THE PLAN CAN BE PURCHASED FROM THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT.
------0---------
DRUG ABUSE HOTLINE EXPANDS
******
OWING TO LARGE NUMBER OF CALLERS USING THE AUTOMATED ENQUIRY HOTLINE ON DRUG ABUSE, THE NARCOTICS DIVISION HAS RECENTLY INSTALLED FOUR MORE TELEPHONE LINES TO MEET THE DEMAND.
NOW THE HOTLINE HAS EIGHT LINES WITH PRE-RECORDED MESSAGES IN CANTONESE ON 12 TYPES OF COMMON SUBSTANCES OF ABUSE.
INFORMATION ON DRUG TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION FACILITIES IS ALSO ON OFFER.
THE HOTLINE - 366 R822 - HAS BREN AUTOMATED SINCE FEBRUARY 5 THIS YEAR UNDER A VOICE MESSAGING SYSTEM (VMS). SINCI THEN, THE NUMBER OF CALLERS HAS AVERAGED SOME 1,500 A DA\ .
THE DECISION WAS MADE BY THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS AFTER A CAREFUL REVIEW OF THE NEED.
"WE HOPE MORE PEOPLE CAN BE TOLD OF THE HARMFUL EFFECTS OF DRUG ABUSE," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE NARCOTICS DIVISION SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
CALLERS MAY LISTEN TO THE VO I ( E MENU INSTRUCTING THEM TO CHOOSE A PRE-RECORDED MESSAGE BY PRESSING A SUITABLE NUMBER.
/THE CODES .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 27 -
THE FOLLOW: CODES FOR THE 12 TYPES OF COMMON SUBSTANCES OF ABUSE ARE
CODE SUBSTANCE OF ABUSE
1 HEROIN
2 CANNABIS
3 LSD
4 TRANQUILLIZERS
5 BARBITURATES
6 MANDRAX
7 AMPHETAMINES
8 COCAINE
91 ORGANIC SOLVENTS
92 N1C0TINE/T0BACC0
93 ALCOHOL
94 COUGH MEDIC'INES
BY PRESSING THE DIGIT ”0" DURING OFFICE HOURS, CALLERS WILL BE CONNECTED TO THE OPERATOR WHO WILL ADVISE THEM ON WHAT DRUG TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION SERVICES THEY CAN GET.
0---------
EDUCATION COLLEGE IMPROVEMENT WORKS
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR IMPROVEMENT WORKS AT NORTHCOTE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION IN THE WESTERN DISTRICT.
THE PROJECT INVOLVES REDEVELOPING THE LIBRARY BLOCK, CONVERTING THE WARDEN’S BLOCK INTO CLASSROOMS, IMPROVING FACILITIES IN THE CANTEEN AND UPGRADING THE POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM.
WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START AROUND SEPTEMBER FOR COMPLETION IN 16 MONTHS.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 34TH FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG.
TENDER OFFER WILL CLOSE AT NOON ON AUGUST 13.
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/28 ........
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
- 28 -
REGISTRATION FORMS FOR OVERSEAS UE ELECTORS
FORMS AND EXPLANATORY LEAFLETS FOR REGISTRATION AS AN OVERSEAS ELECTOR IN UK PARLIAMENTARY AND EUROPEAN PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE HONG KONG IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT.
"BRITISH CITIZENS LIVING IN HONG KONG MAY CONTACT THE INFORMATION OFFICE OF THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT ON SECOND FLOOR, 7 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN ('HAI, HONG KONG BY WRITING OR IN PERSON,” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
UNDER THE REPRESENTATION OF THE PEOPLE ACT OF 1989, THE QUALIFYING PERIOD FOR THE RIGHT TO VOTE FOR PEOPLE LIVING ABROAD HAS BEEN EXTENDED FROM FIVE TO 20 YEARS.
THAT MEANS IF A BRITISH CITIZEN LEFT THE UK AS LONG AGO AS OCTOBER 1973, HE CAN STILL VOTE, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE IS NO LONGER REQUIRED TO DECLARE AN INTENTION TO RETURN TO THE UK AND THE VOTE WILL BE CAST IN THE CONSTITUENCY IN WHICH HE OR HIS FAMILY WERE REGISTERED BEFORE LEAVING THE UK, HE ADDED.
PEOPLE WHO LEFT THE UK BEFORE THEY WERE OLD ENOUGH TO BE INCLUDED ON THE ELECTORAL REGISTER MAY REGISTER AS OVERSEAS ELECTORS.
IN ORDER TO QUALIFY, POTENTIAL ELECTORS WILL HAVE TO FILL IN AN APPLICATION FORM AND RETURN IT DIRECT TO THEIR ELECTORAL REGISTRATION OFFICE BY OCTOBER 10 THIS YEAR (SEPTEMBER 15 IF THEY WERE PREVIOUSLY RESIDENTS IN NORTHERN IRELAND).
THE SPOKESMAN APPEALED TO BRITISH CITIZENS TO INFORM ANYONE THEY KNOW LIVING ABROAD ABOUT THIS.
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CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURE SOUGHT
*****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE AN UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURE IN CAUSEWAY BAY SO THAT IT CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND THE PUBLIC.
THE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURE IS USED AS A SHOP AT THE COMMON AREA ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF PEARL CITY MANSION AT 22-38 PATERSON STREET AND 25-29 GREAT GEORGE STREET.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE ON AUGUST 18 WAS POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY (FRIDAY).
DEMOLITION WORK OF THE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURE IS EXPECTED TO START AS SOON AS THE CLOSURE ORDER IS ISSUED.
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/29 .......
FRIDAY, JULY 23, 1993
29
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 1,510 + 490 2,000 NIL -20 1,980
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4. HONG 00 OFFER TWI KONG GOVERNMENT 112.5 EXCHANGE ♦-0.1* 23 FUND .7.93
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.32 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.60 3.83
1 MONTH 2.60 PCT 16 MONTHS 241 1 4.625 100.76 4.06
3 MONTHS 3.15 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.76 4.28
6 MONTHS 3.45 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 12 MONTHS 3.80 PCT TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 24,545 MN 3.75 98.74 4.53
CLOSED JULY 23, 1993
--------0-----------
Received by PRO on ?7 JUL 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, JULY 24, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
CASTLE PEAK ROAD TO RE IMPROVED ........................ ]
FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION CAMPAIGN A SUCCESS ............... 1
GRANTS FOR CULTURAL ACTIVITIES ......................... 2
REVIEW ARTICLE ON RE-EXPORT TRADE ...................... 3
FIRING PRACTICE IN AUGUST .............................. 4
FRESH WATER CUT IN SAI KUNG ............................ 4
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS . 5
SUNDAY, JULY 25, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD OFF FOR EUROPE VISIT .......... 6
PAMPHLETS ON AIDS FOR STUDENTS ............. c
SATURDAY, JULY 24, 1993
CASTLE PEAK ROAD TO BE IMPROVED »»»»»»
THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSES TO IMPROVE THE SHARP ROAD BEND AND TO PROVIDE A PUBLIC CAR PARK AT 12 MILESTONE CASTLE PEAK ROAD OPPOSITE HOMI VILLA IN TSUEN WAN.
HOMI VILLA HAS BEEN SELECTED AS AN EXHIBITION AND EDUCATION CENTRE FOR THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME AND AT PRESENT THERE ARE NO PUBLIC PARKING FACILITIES IN ITS VICINITY.
AS THE CENTRE WILL BECOME A TOURIST ATTRACTION AND WILL BRING MORE TRAFFIC ON CASTLE PEAK ROAD, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT THE SHARP ROAD BEND BE IMPROVED. TO FLATTEN THE SHARP BEND, SOME SLOPE-CUTTING WORKS ARE NECESSARY.
AS PART OF THE IMPROVEMENT, THE LAND THAT BECOMES AVAILABLE WILL BE CONVERTED INTO A PUBLIC CAR PARK TO SERVE VISITORS TO THE CENTRE AND THE NEARBY BEACHES.
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT WILL CARRY OUT THE WORKS.
A NOTICE ON THE PROPOSED WORKS HAS BEEN GAZETTED YESTERDAY (FRIDAY).
A PLAN SHOWING THE EXTENT OF THE PROPOSED WORKS AND A SCHEME DESCRIPTION CAN BE SEEN AT:
* THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
* THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, TSUEN WAN, 1OTH FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, 174-208 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, TSUEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES; AND
* THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE, FIRST FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, 174-208 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, TSUEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES.
ANY PERSON WHO WISHES TO OBJECT TO THE WORKS OR THE USE, OR BOTH IS REQUIRED TO SEND HIS OBJECTION IN WRITING TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, BY SEPTEMBER 21.
------0--------
FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION CAMPAIGN A SUCCESS * * * * *
FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION HELPS TO ENHANCE HARMONIOUS FAMILY TIES, THROUGH CLOSE CO-OPERATION BETWEEN GOVERNMENT AND NON-GOVFRNMENTAL WELFARE ORGANISATIONS.
'THIS WAS STATED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN, MISS CHUNG WOON-CHEUNG, TODAY (SATURDAY).
/THE CAMPAIGN .......
2
SATURDAY, JULY 24, 1993
THE CAMPAIGN HAS BEEN LAUNCHED SINCE 1978.
AT THE FINALE OF A RADIO PROGRAMME ON FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION AT A RADIO TELEVISION HONG LONG STUDIO, MISS CHUNG SAID THE RADIO PROGRAMME WAS A HIGHLIGHT OF THE 1991/93 CAMPAIGN.
SHE SAID THE OBJECTIVE WAS '1'0 SPREAD THE THEME OF "HAPPY MARRIAGE AND RESPONSIBLE PARENTHOOD".
THE WEEKEND ONE-HOUR PROGRAMME, ENTITLED "HARMONIOUS LIFE", HAS BEEN ON THE AIR FOR THE PAST 13 WEEKS, GIVING ADVICE ON HAPPY MARRIAGE, RESPONSIBLE PARENTHOOD, YOUTH OF TODAY AND CROSS-GENERATION TIES.
IT ALSO ATTEMPTED TO HELP CALLERS SOLVE THEIR. PERSONAL PROBLEMS.
AT TODAY’S FINALE, SOME 50 PEOPLE INCLUDING SOCIAL VOLUNTEERS AND FAMILY MEMBERS OF DIFFERENT AGES WERE INVITED PART IN A DEBATE.
WORKERS, TO TAKE
SOME OF THE PARTICI PANTS WERE LATER INVITED TO A GAME ON FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION.
THE FINALE PROGRAMME WILL BE ON AIR ON RADIO 5 ON JULY 31, STARTING 11 AM.
MISS CHUNG SAID THE VIGOROUS RESPONSE OF THE AUDIENCE HAD CLEARLY SHOWN THAT THEY HAD SUCCEEDED IN PROMOTING HARMONIOUS FAMILY TIES.
"WE WILL STEP UP OUR EFFORTS 1’0 SPREAD THE MESSAGE TO EVERY FAMILY," SHE SAID.
THE 1993/95 FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN WILL BE LAUNCHED IN OCTOBER THIS YEAR.
-----0-------
GRANTS FOR CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
*******
I’HE SIR DAVID TRENCH FUND FOR RECREATION IS INVITING APPLICATIONS FOR GRANTS FROM THE FUND’S 1993 CULTURAL SCHEME.
THE AIM OF THE FUND IS TO ENCOURAGE THOSE RECREATIONAL AND RELATED PROJECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE INDIVIDUAL AND HIS INVOLVEMENT IN THE LIFE OF THE COMMUNITY IN HONG KONG.
THIS YEAR, I’HE SIR DAVID TRENCH FUND COMMITTEE WILL LAUNCH A SPECIAL ’1993 CULTURAL ACTIVITIES SCHEME’.
THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THE SCHEME IS TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE 1’0 ASSOCIATIONS FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF EQUIPMENT, SUCH AS MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AND PAINTING EQUIPMENT AND THEREBY TO FACILITATE THE ORGANISATION OF CULTURAL ACTIVITIES AND TRAINING CLASSES.
/IT WILL .......
SATURDAY, JULY 24, 1993
3
IT WILL BE OPEN TO ALL KINDS OF ASSOCIATIONS, AND GRANT.j APPROVED WILL NORMALLY NOT EXCEED $20,000.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE OBTAINABLE AT ALL DISTRICT OFFICES OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION AND THE SOCIAL WELFAR DEPARTMENT.
THEY CAN ALSO BE OBTAINED FROM SIR DAVID TRENCH FUND COMMITTED AT THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH, 40TH FLOOR, REVENUE TOWER, GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
ALL COMPLETED APPLICATION FORMS SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE SECRETARY FOR THE COMMITTEE ON OR BEFORE THE END OF AUGUST.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 594 5660.
---------0
REVIEW ARTICLE ON RE-EXPORT TRADE *****
HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS TO ('HINA INCLUDE A LOT OF TEXTILE PRODUCTS, ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT, MACHINERY, PLASTICS IN PRIMARY FORMS, AND ROAD VEHICLES, ACCORDING TO A SPECIAL REVIEW ARTICLE IN THE MAY ISSUE OF THE ’’HONG KONG MONTHLY DIGEST OF STATISTICS”.
ENTITLED ’’REVIEW OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORT TRADE”, THE ARTICLE SAID RE-EXPORTS FROM HONG KONG TO COUNTRIES SUCH AS USA, JAPAN AND UNITED KINGDOM COVERED MOSTLY CLOTHING, TOYS, FOOTWEAR AND MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED GOODS.
’’RE-EXPORT TRADE IS AN INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT ECONOMIC ACTIVITY FOR HONG KONG,” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT SAID.
"THE REVIEW ARTICLE ANALYSES THE DEVELOPMENT OF RE-EXPORT TRADE WITH REFERENCE TO TRADE STATISTICS IN THE PAST DECADE AND THE MOST RECENT FIGURES FOR 1993,” HE SAID.
DETAILED ANALYSIS IS GIVEN ON: GROWTH IN RE-EXPORT TRADE OVER THE YEARS, DESTINATION AND ORIGIN OF RE-EXPORT GOODS, AND THE TYPES OF COMMODITIES TRADED.
THE "HONG KONG MONTHLY DIGEST OF STATISTICS", AT $48 A COPY, IS ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, HONG KONG, AND AT THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON THE 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAl TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN ('HAI, HONG KONG.
- - 0 - -
/4 ........
SATURDAY, JULY 24, 1993
- 4
FIRING PRACTICE IN AUGUST
* * * * *
FIRING PRACTICE WILL
TAKE PLACE AT THE HA TSUEN
CASTLE PEAK
RANGE ON 21 DAYS NEXT MONTH (AUGUST).
THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED NOT TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN RED FLAGS
ARE HOISTED.
FOLLOWING ARE THE DATES AND TIMES FOR THE FIRING PRACTICE:
DATE TIME
AUGUST 2 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 3 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 4 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 5 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 6 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 9 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 10 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 11 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 12 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 13 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 16 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 17 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 18 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 19 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 20 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 23 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 24 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 25 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 26 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 27 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
AUGUST 31 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
----0------
FRESH WATER CUT IN SAI KUNG
*****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN SAI FROM 11 PM ON MONDAY (JULY 26) TO 6 AM THE FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE PREMISES WAI MAN ROAD AND CHAN MAN STREET.
KUNG WILL GO OFF FOLLOWING DAY TO
AT FUK MAN ROAD,
/5.........
5
SATURDAY, JULY 24,
1993
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 112.6 *+0.1*
------0-------
$ MILLION
1,980
NIL
1,980
NIL
-120
1,860
24.7.93
SUNDAY, JULY 25, 1993
KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD OFF FOR EUROPE VISIT *****
A KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD DELEGATION, COMPRISING BOARD MEMBERS AND LOCAL PERSONALITIES, DEPARTED FOR EUROPE THIS (SUNDAY) MORNING ON A 15-DAY STUDY TOUR.
LED BY THE BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM HANG-FAI, AND ACCOMPANIED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR WONG HON-HO, THE GROUP WILL VISIT A NUMBER OF CITIES IN DENMARK, NORWAY, SWEDEN, AUSTRIA, CZECH REPUBLIC, POLAND AND GERMANY.
SPEAKING AT THE AIRPORT, MR LAM SAID: "AN IMPORTANT OBJECTIVE OF THE TRIP IS TO GAIN AN INSIGHT INTO THE OPERATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENTS IN THESE COUNTRIES, THEIR SOCIAL WELFARE SYSTEM AND WASTE TREATMENT FACILITIES.
"MEMBERS ALSO WISH TO SEE FOR THEMSELVES THE NEW GERMANY FOLLOWING ITS UNIFICATION."
ON THE CULTURAL FRONT, THE GROUP WILL VISIT THE BIRTHPLACES OF MR HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN, A MASTER OF CHILDREN’S LITERATURE, AND MR FREDERIC FRANCOIS CHOPIN, A COMPOSER AND PIANIST.
THE DELEGATION WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON AUGUST 8.
- - 0 - -
PAMPHLETS ON AIDS FOR STUDENTS
*****
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAS PRODUCED 1.5 MILLION COPIES OF A FULL-COLOUR PAMPHLET ON AIDS FOR DISTRIBUTION TO STUDENTS AND TEACHERS IN ALL PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
THE PURPOSE IS TO PROMOTE A POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS HIV-INFECTED PERSONS.
THE EASY-TO-UNDERSTAND, BILINGUAL PUBLICATION WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO STUDENTS IN 1,200 PRIMARY AND 500 SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
"IT EXPLAINS IN SIMPLE TERMS THE AIDS VIRUS, MODES OF TRANSMISSION AND THE CARE OF WOUNDS," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.
"STUDENTS ARE ALSO TOLD THAT HIV CAN ONLY BE TRANSMITTED THROUGH SEXUAL AND BLOOD CONTACTS) AND FROM AN INFECTED MOTHER TO HER BABY DURING PREGNANCY," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
- - 0 - -
Received by PRO 2 8 JUL i993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 842 8777
MONDAY, JULY 26, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
STATEMENT ON TV PURCHASE ........................................ 1
CUT IN UNHCR REINTEGRATION ASSISTANCE WELCOMED .................. 2
LAB SUPPORTS PROPOSALS TO BETTER PROTECT WORKERS ................ 2
146 ECVII'S ARRIVE .............................................. 3
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF SWIMMING POOI .............................. 3
CLOSING DATE FOR HERITAGE I OGO DESIGN CONTEST EXTENDED ......... 3
LONG-SERVING MARKETING STAFF RFTIRF ............................. 4
FANLING MATERNAL AND CHILD HEAI TH CENTRE T’O MOVE .............. 5
WATER CUTS IN TSIM SHA TSU] AND MONG KOK ....................... 5
WATER STORAGE FIGURE........................................... 6
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE MAD MONFX MARKF1 OPERATIONS .
6
MONDAY, JULY 26, 1993
STATEMENT ON TV PURCHASE
* * * * *
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE PURCHASE BY THE NEWS CORPORATION LIMITED OF A CONTROLLING INTEREST IN HUTCHVISION LIMITED (WHICH OWNS 48 PER CENT OF HUTCHVISION HONG KONG LIMITED), A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TONIGHT (MONDAY) SAID THERE WAS NOTHING IN THE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK GOVERNING HUTCHVISION HONG KONG LIMITED’S LICENCE WHICH PROHIBITED THE SALE.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR MEETING THE TERMS OF THE LICENCE WOULD CONTINUE TO REST WITH THE LICENSEE, THE MAJORITY SHAREHOLDING OF WHICH RESTS WITH THE LI FAMILY AND HUTCHISON WHAMPOA LIMITED.
"HUTCHVISION HONG KONG LIMITED HAD PROVED A RESPONSIBLE LICENSEE, AND HAD OPERATED IN ACCORDANCE WITH ITS LICENCE CONDITIONS.
"WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT THIS SITUATION WILL CONTINUE UNCHANGED FOLLOWING THE PURCHASE THAT HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO POINTED OUT THAT NO DIRECT COMPARISON COULD BE MADE WITH THE PREVIOUS PROPOSAL THAT NEWSCORP SHOULD ACQUIRE MORE THAN 15 PER CENT OF THE VOTING CONTROL OF TVB.
HUTCHVISION AND TVB HOLD DIFFERENT LICENCES AND ARE REGULATED UNDER DIFFERENT ORDINANCES - RESPECTIVELY, THE TELECOMMUNICATION AND THE TELEVISION ORDINANCES.
THE DIFFERENT FORM OF REGULATORY CONTROL IS DERIVED FROM POLICY CONSIDERATIONS REFLECTING THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SERVICE OFFERED BY THE TWO BROADCASTERS.
SATELLITE BROADCASTERS LIKE HUTCHVTSION HONG KONG LIMITED ARE FROM THE GOVERNMENT’S POINT OF VIEW REGIONAL BROADCASTERS WHICH ARE BASED IN HONG KONG AND WHOSE SERVICES MAY ALSO BE RECEIVED WITHIN THE TERRITORY.
"LOCAL TERRESTRIAL TELEVISION BROADCASTERS LIKE TVB PROVIDE A SERVICE WHICH IS ONE OF THE CORE ELEMENTS OF OUR LOCAL BROADCAST MEDIA.
"WE WISH TO ENSURE AS FAR AS POSSIBLE THAT LOCAL TELEVISION REFLECTS LOCAL ASPIRATIONS AND PRESERVES DIVERSIFIED SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE HONG KONG COMMUNITY.”
HUTCHVISION HONG KONG LIMITED'S LICENCE IS NON-EXCLUSIVE AND ANY NUMBER OF ADDITIONAL SATELLITE TELEVISION BROADCASTERS COULD BE LICENSED TO UPLINK FROM HONG KONG.
"TVB AND ATV ON THE OTHER HAND ENJOY EXCLUSIVE USE OF OUR TERRESTRIAL TELEVISION CAPACITY.
"OUR REGULATORY REGIME REFLECTS THESE DIFFERENCES BY ALLOWING FOR MORE FLEXIBILITY FOR SATELLITE BROADCASTERS."
UP TO 49 PER CENT OF HUTCHVISION HONG KONG LIMITED MAY BE HELD BY NON-HONG KONG RESIDENTS (UNQUALIFIED PERSONS) AND THERE ARE NO RESTRICTIONS ON HOLDINGS BY OWNERS OF OTHER MEDIA INTERESTS ETC. (DISQUALIFIED PERSONS).
- - 0----------
/2.........
MONDAY, JULY 26, 1993
2
CUT IN UNHCR REINTEGRATION * * * *
ASSISTANCE WELCOMED *
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THIS (MONDAY) MORNING THAT HE WELCOMED THE DECISION TO REDUCE THE LEVEL OF UNHCR REINTEGRATION ASSISTANCE PAID TO VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS RETURNING HOME.
"WE WERE CONSULTED ABOUT THIS INITIATIVE, AND THREW OUR WEIGHT BEHIND IT. WE HOPE THAT THE REDUCTION WILL INJECT NEW MOMENTUM INTO THE VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME,” HE SAID.
-----0------
LAB SUPPORTS PROPOSALS TO BETTER PROTECT WORKERS
*****
LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD (LAB) MEMBERS TODAY (MONDAY) SUPPORTED A NUMBER OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE LABOUR LAWS TO FURTHER IMPROVE WORKERS' SAFETY AND HEALTH AS WELL AS BENEFITS.
AT A MEETING CHAIRED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MRS KATHERINE FOK, BOARD MEMBERS AGREED TO PROCEED WITH THE DRAFTING OF A NEW PROVISION IN SECTION 5 OF THE EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION ORDINANCE (ECO) TO PROVIDE COMPENSATION TO EMPLOYEES WHO ARE INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT ON THEIR WAY TO AND FROM WORK WHEN TYPHOON SIGNAL NO. 8 OR ABOVE, OR RED OR BLACK RAINSTORM SIGNAL, IS ISSUED.
DURING THE MEETING, MEMBERS DISCUSSED A PROPOSAL TO SET UP A MINOR WAGE CLAIMS SETTLEMENT SERVICE (MWCSS).
UNDER THE PROPOSAL, THE MWCSS SHALL BE SEPARATE FROM AND INDEPENDENT OF THE LABOUR RELATIONS SERVICE (LRS).
IT IS INTENDED TO BE A QUICK AND SIMPLE SERVICE TO ADJUDICATE MINOR WAGE CLAIMS ARISING FROM DISPUTES OF STATUTORY OR CONTRACTUAL RIGHTS OF EMPLOYMENT WHEN SETTLEMENT CANNOT BE ACHIEVED THROUGH CONCILIATION RENDERED BY THE LRS.
THE TYPES OF CLAIMS TO BE DETERMINED BY THE PROPOSED MWCSS INCLUDE THOSE INVOLVING NOT MORE THAN FIVE CLAIMANTS AND FOR EACH CLAIMANT THE AMOUNT OF CLAIM DOES NOT EXCEED $5,000.
IT IS ESTIMATED THAT THE MWCSS WILL HANDLE ABOUT 1,300 CASES A YEAR.
BOARD MEMBERS AGREED TO AMEND THE CONSTRUCTION SITES (SAFETY) REGULATIONS TO PROHIBIT THE EMPLOYMENT OF YOUNG PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF 18 IN CONSTRUCTION SITES.
THEY WERE BRIEFED THAT IN ORDER NOT TO AFFECT THE TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES OF YOUNG PERSONS, IT IS CONSIDERED NECESSARY TO GRANT EXEMPTION TO THOSE WHO ARE UNDERGOING OR HAVE COMPLETED REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP, AND THOSE WHO HAVE RECEIVED FULL-TIME TRAINING FOR MORE THAN SIX MONTHS FROM THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY OR UNDERGOING ON-SITE TRAINING AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE FULL-TIME TRAINING BEING SUPERVISED BY A QUALIFIED INSTRUCTOR OF THE AUTHORITY.
/THEY ALSO ......
3
MONDAY, JULY 26, 1993
THEY ALSO GENERALLY AGREED ON THE PRINCIPLE TO EXTEND THE COVERAGE OF THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (SAFETY
OFFICERS AND SAFETY SUPERVISORS) REGULATIONS SO THAT A PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR OR A SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR OF CONSTRUCTION SITES MUST EMPLOY A FULL-TIME SAFETY OFFICER IF HE EMPLOYS 100 (EXISTING MANDATORY REQUIREMENT IS 200) OR MORE PERSONS IN HIS CONSTRUCTION SITES. THE PROPOSAL ALSO REQUIRES A SHIPYARD PROPRIETOR TO EMPLOY A FULL-TIME SAFETY OFFICER IF HE EMPLOYS 100 OR MORE PERSONS IN HIS SHIPYARDS.
------0---------
146 ECVII’S ARRIVE
* » * t t
A TOTAL OF 146 EX-CHINA VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS (ECVII’S) HAVE ARRIVED IN HONG KONG IN THREE BOATS AS AT 5 PM TODAY (MONDAY).
THE THREE GROUPS COMPRISED 50 MEN, 35 WOMEN, 36 BOYS AND 25 GIRLS.
------0--------
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF SWIMMING POOL » » » »
THE HIN TIN PUBLIC SWIMMING POOL IN SHA TIN IS TEMPORARILY CLOSED ON THE ADVICE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH FOLLOWING THE RESULT OF A WATER TEST.
THE ADVICE IS GIVEN AFTER SAMPLES OF WATER TAKEN FROM THE POOL WERE FOUND TO BE UNSATISFACTORY.
AS A PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE, THE POOL IS CLOSED FOR INVESTIGATION, INCLUDING FURTHER TESTS ON WATER SAMPLES.
------0---------
CLOSING DATE FOR HERITAGE LOGO DESIGN CONTEST EXTENDED
* * * * *
THE CLOSING DATE FOR THE LOGO GRAPHICS" ORGANISED BY THE LORD WILSON HERITAGE EXTENDED TO AUGUST 31 FROM THE END OF' THIS MONTH.
DESIGN COMPETITION "HERITAGE
TRUST HAS
IN BEEN
THE LORD WILSON HERITAGE TRUST WAS SET UP UNDER THF I aw th LATE 1992 WITH AIMS TO PRESERVE AND PROMOTE HONG KONG’S HERITAGE.
HAS BEE^LAuSed"? SELECT A LOG° F°R ™E TRUST’ A DESIGN COMPETITION
OF THF FStIri THE FUNCTI0N WILL AROUSE PUBLIC AWARENESS
E THE ESTABLISHMENT OE THIS NEW BODY FOR HERITAGE PRESERVATION.
/THE COMPETITION .......
MONDAY, JULY 26, 1993
4
THE COMPETITION IS A TERRITORY-WIDE EVENT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, PARTICIPANTS MAY SUBMIT ANY NUMBER OF ENTRIES.
ENTRIES SHOULD BE ARTWORK ON A4-SIZE PAPER, SUITABLE FOR USE ON LETTERHEADS, STATIONERY, HOARDING, TIES AND BADGES, AND SO ON.
THERE SHOULD BE TWO VERSIONS OF DESIGN IN ALL ENTRIES, ONE IN BLACK AND WHITE AND THE OTHER IN COLOUR(S).
ENTRIES MUST BE SUBMITTED TOGETHER WITH COMPLETED ENTRY FORMS TO THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE OF THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH, 136 NATHAN ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI, KOWLOON BY THE CLOSING DATE.
THE ENTRY FORM SHOULD BE PLACED IN A SEALED ENVELOPE STUCK TO THE BACK OF THE ENRTY.
THE COMPETITION WILL BE JUDGED IN TWO STAGES.
FOR STAGE I, A PANEL COMPRISING THREE EXPERTS IN THE FIELD OF DESIGN WILL SHORTLIST THE ENTRIES DOWN TO FIVE FINALISTS.
FOR STAGE II, A PANEL COMPRISING TWO REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE BOARD AND COUNCIL OF THE LORD WILSON HERITAGE TRUST PLUS THE CHAIRMAN OF STAGE I WILL SELECT A WINNER AMONG THE FIVE SHORTLISTED DESIGNS, WHICH MAY BE USED AS THE LOGO OF THE TRUST.
THE WINNER OF THE COMPETITION WILL RECEIVE $5,000 IN CASH AND A CERTIFICATE.
THERE WILL ALSO BE FOUR MERIT PRIZES EACH OF $1,000 IN CASH AND A CERTIFICATE AS WELL.
ENTRY FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE, DISTRICT OFFICES, PUBLIC LIBRARIES AND MUSEUMS.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 721 2326.
-----0------
LONG-SERVING MARKETING STAFF RETIRE
*****
THIRTEEN STAFF MEMBERS OF THE FISH AND VEGETABLE MARKETING ORGANISATIONS, WHO HAVE AMONG THEMSELVES CHALKED UP A TOTAL OF 318 YEARS OF SERVICE, RETIRED TODAY (MONDAY).
TWO OF THEM ARE FROM THE VEGETABLE MARKETING ORGANISATION (VMO) AND THE REST FROM THE FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION (FMO). THEY SERVED AN AVERAGE OF 24 YEARS EACH.
THE VMO STAFF MEMBERS AND THREE OF THE FMO EMPLOYEES HAVE EACH SERVED FOR MORE THAN 35 YEARS.
AT A CEREMONY HELD AT THE CHEUNG SHA WAN WHOLESALE VEGETABLE MARKET, THE DIRECTOR OF ARGICUI TURE AND FISHERIES, DR LAWRENCE LEE, PRESENTED THEM WITH SOUVENIRS AND PRAISED THEM FOR THEIR LOYALTY AND SUPPORT OVER THE YEARS.
/"THEIR HARD .......
MONDAY, JULY 26, 1993
5
"THEIR HARD WORK AND DEVOTION TO THE JOB HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE EFFICIENT OPERATION OF BOTH ORGANISATIONS," DR LEE SAID.
"AS THEY LOOK BACK AT THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF BOTH ORGANISATIONS AND THE WORK THEY HAVE DONE, THEY SHOULD FEEL SATISFIED AND PROUD, HE SAID.
AT THE CEREMONY, DR LEE ALSO PRESENTED 25-YEAR LONG-SERVICE AWARDS TO SIX VMO EMPLOYEES.
--------0------------
FANLING MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CENTRE TO MOVE
*****
THE FANLING MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CENTRE IN FANLING HOSPITAL WILL MOVE TO THE FOURTH FLOOR OF THE NORTH DISTRICT GOVERNMENT OFFICE AT 3 PIK FUNG ROAD, FANLING NEXT MONDAY (AUGUST 2).
ITS OPERATING HOURS AND SERVICES PROVIDED WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
"THE CENTRE PROVIDES A COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF SERVICES, BOTH PREVENTIVE AND CURATIVE, FOR WOMEN OF CHILD-BEARING AGE AND CHILDREN FROM BITH TO FIVE YEARS OLD.
"THE SERVICES INCLUDE CHILD HEALTH CARE, IMMUNISATION, COMPREHENSIVE OBSERVATION SERVICE, ANTENATAL CARE, POSTNATAL CARE AND FAMILY PLANNING," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE NEW TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR ENQUIRIES IS 677 6484.
------0-------
WATER CUTS IN TSIM SHA TSUI AND MONG KOK
*****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN TSIM SHA TSUI WILL GO OFF FROM 11 PM ON WEDNESDAY (JULY 28) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE PREMISES BOUNDED BY NATHAN ROAD, CARNARVON ROAD, HART AVENUE, CHATHAM ROAD SOUTH AND CAMERON ROAD.
OWING TO WATER MAINS CONNECTION WORK, SALT WATER SUPPLY TO ALL PREMISES IN TSIM SHA TSUI AND MONG KOK WILL STOP FROM 10 PM ON THURSDAY (JULY 29) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY. SUPPLY TO THE PREMISES IN TAI KOK TSUI WILL ALSO TURN WEAK.
- - 0 - -
/6.........
MONDAY, JULY 26, 1993
6 -
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ♦ * * *
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 74.1 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 434.482 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 502.183 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 85.7 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
------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 1,860 + 140 2,000 NIL -40 1,960
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.6 *+0.0» 26.7.93 HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/ HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.55 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.53 3.90
1 MONTH 2.75 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.72 4.09
3 MONTHS 3.17 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.69 4.33
6 MONTHS 3.49 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 12 MONTHS 3.84 PCT TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 25.450MN CLOSED 26 JULY 1993 3.75 98.68 4.57
------0-----------
Received by PRO 2 9' JUL 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR TO REVIEW TALKS IN LONDON .............................. 1
AIRPORT COMMITTEE MEETING ....................................... 2
FARE INCREASES FOR TAXI AND NLB CONSIDERED ...................... 2
AGREEMENT ON WATER SUPPLY FROM GUANGDONG ........................ 3
REGULATORY SYSTEM FOR ESTATF AGENTS BEING CONSIDERED ............ 5
SHIPPING AND PORT CONTROL (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993 ........... 6
BRIDGE TOWER REACHES 100 METRES MARK ............................ 7
HK MAKES GOOD PROGRESS ON AIRPORT CORF. PROGRAMME ............... 8
WRITTEN CONTRACT FOR OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT A MUST ................. 9
JUSTICE OF APPEAL AND HIGH COURT JUDGES APPOINTED .............. 10
AUCTION OF LUCKY CAR REGISTRATION MARKS ........................ 11
FS VISITS ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT .................... 12
CENTRAL REGISTER SUPPLIES BUSINESS DATA ........................ 12
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS .......... 13
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS . 14
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
- 1 -GOVERNOR TO REVIEW TALKS IN LONDON *****
THE GOVERNOR, THE RT HON CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, SAID HE WOULD REVIEW WITH THE FOREIGN SECRETARY, MR DOUGLAS HURD, AND OTHER OFFICIALS ON THURSDAY PROGRESS OF SINO-BRITISH TALKS AND DISCUSS WITH THEM OTHER ISSUES OF CONCERN IN THE TERRITORY.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS ON HIS LONDON VISIT AFTER THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING TODAY (TUESDAY), MR PATTEN SAID: "I’LL BE REVIEWING WITH THE FOREIGN SECRETARY AND WITH OFFICIALS THE PROGRESS THAT WE’VE MADE IN THE TALKS WITH CHINA, PROGRESS THAT WAS MADE IN THE EIGHTH ROUND, AND PREPARING THE BRIEF FOR THE NINTH ROUND OF TALKS.
"I ALSO WILL BE RAISING A NUMBER OF OTHER ISSUES WHICH ARE OF CONSIDERABLE CONCERN HERE IN HONG KONG, FOR EXAMPLE, THE POSITION OF THOSE ETHNIC GROUPS WHOSE CONCERN HAS BEEN FOLLOWED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OVER THE MONTHS."
MR PATTEN SAID IT WOULD BE USEFUL TO HAVE REGULAR DISCUSSIONS WITH THE FOREIGN SECRETARY AND THAT HE WAS LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS ONE.
IN REPLY TO QUESTIONS ON THE FUTURE OF THE PRINCE OF WALES BUILDING, MR PATTEN POINTED OUT THAT DISCUSSIONS ON DEFENCE LANDS WERE NOT YET CONCLUDED, ADDING THAT HE WAS NOT IN A POSITION TO MAKE ANY ANNOUNCEMENT.
HE MADE IT CLEAR THAT IT WAS NECESSARY TO STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN THE NEEDS OF THE PRESENT AND FUTURE GARRISON AND THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG.
"AT THE END OF THE DAY, WHAT WE HAVE TO BALANCE IS FIRST OF ALL THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE GARRISON IN HONG KONG BOTH TODAY AND IN THE FUTURE AND SECONDLY THE IMPORTANCE OF USING LAND AND PARTS OF THE DEFENCE ESTATE WHICH AREN’T REQUIRED FOR DEFENCE PURPOSES IN THE INTERESTS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG.
"THAT’S A BALANCE WHICH WE’RE DETERMINED TO STRIKE AS BEST AS WE CAN FOR THE ORDINARY PEOPLE OF HONG KONG."
MR PATTEN NOTED THAT THE PRESENT GARRISON HAS BEHAVED EXTREMELY WELL OVER THE YEARS AND HAD DONE AN EXCELLENT JOB WITH GREAT SENSITIVITY.
ASKED ABOUT PROGRESS IN THE SINO-BRITISH TALKS, THE GOVERNOR SAID MORE PROGRESS HAD BEEN MADE IN RECENT ROUNDS BUT THERE WAS STILL A LONG WAY TO GO.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THOSE WERE DIFFICULT ISSUES.
"AND I’VE SAID AS WELL THAT PEOPLE SHOULDN’T BE SURPRISED THAT THESE ISSUES ARE TAKING A GREAT DEAL OF NEGOTIATING TIME. THEY ARE DIFFICULT ISSUES," HE SAID.
MR PATTEN DENIED SUGGESTIONS THAT HE HAD CHANGED POSITION AND HAD SET A DEADLINE ON THE TALKS.
/"SO NO .......
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
2
SO NO CHANGE SO FAR AS DEADLINES ARE CONCERNED,"
REITERATED.
"THE WHOLE COMMUNITY WANTS THESE TALKS TO BE A SUCCESS, IF
POSSIBLE.
IS
•• t tutmk TMF WHOLE COMMUNITY OR THE GREAT MAJORITY OF IT rim Sat WHAT IT WANTS TO COME OUT OF THESE DISCUSSIONS
PEOPLE,” HE ADDED.
------o--------
AIRPORT COMMITTEE MEETING
» * » * *
THE BRITISH AND CHINESE SIDES HAVE AGREED THAT A MEETING OF THE AIRPORT COMMITTEE WILL BE HELD IN HONG KONG ON 4 AUGUST IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING TO CONTINUE DISCUSSIONS ON FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE AIRPORT PROJECTS.
- - 0----------
FARE INCREASES FOR TAXI AND NLB CONSIDERED t * ♦ ♦ t
THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) TODAY (TUESDAY) MET TO DISCUSS FARE INCREASES FOR URBAN AND NEW TERRITORIES TAXIS.
MEMBERS ALSO DISCUSSED A FARE INCREASE APPLICATION FROM THE NEW LANTAO BUS COMPANY (NLB) AND WERE INFORMED OF THE UP-TO-DATE SITUATION OF THE ELDERLY CONCESSIONARY FARE SCHEME.
ON TAXI FARE INCREASES, MEMBERS NOTED THAT THE OPERATING COSTS OF URBAN AND NT TAXIS ARE FORECAST TO RISE BY 16.2%-22.3% FROM THE LAST REVISION IN JANUARY LAST YEAR TO NOVEMBER THIS YEAR.
THE HIGHER OPERATING COSTS ARE DUE LARGELY TO A SUBSTANTIAL RISE IN FUEL COST AS WELL AS INCREASES IN SERVICING AND REPAIR COSTS AND INSURANCE AND DEPRECIATION CHARGES.
IT WAS ALSO NOTED THAT THE FARE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TAXIS AND OTHER PUBLIC TRANSPORT MODES HAVE NARROWED TO A LEVEL BELOW FIVE TO SEVEN TIMES FOR URBAN TAXIS AND THREE TO FOUR TIMES FOR NT TAXIS WHICH WERE STATED IN A POLICY ENDORSED BY TAC IN 1988.
MEMBERS SPENT CONSIDERABLE TIME TO DISCUSS THE PROS AND CONS OF VARIOUS OPTIONS FOR FARE INCREASES AND CAME TO A VIEW THAT MORE INFORMATION IS REQUIRED TN RESPECT OF THE COMBINATION OF THE FLAGFALL Rate, the waiting time and subsequent charges as well as the JUSTIFICATION AS TO WHY NT TAXIS NEED A HIGHER PERCENTAGE OF INCREASE.
/THE COMMITTEE .......
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
3
THE COMMITTEE WILL CONTINUE THE DISCUSSIONS AT THE NEXT MEETING IN AUGUST. IT REMAINS TAC’S TARGET TO HAVE THE NEW FARES COMING INTO EFFECT IN NOVEMBER.
ON THE NLB FARE INCREASE APPLICATION, MEMBERS NOTED THAT WITHOUT A FARE INCREASE, NLB IS EXPECTED TO EARN A NEGLIGIBLE AFTERTAX PROFIT OF $0.29 MILLION IN 1993/94.
THE COMPANY’S FINANCIAL POSITION WILL FURTHER DETERIORATE TO INCUR A LOSS OF $1.33 MILLION IN 1994/95.
THE TAC ALSO NOTED THAT THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) IS EXPECTED TO INCREASE BY 11% BETWEEN NLB’S LAST FARE REVISION IN AUGUST LAST YEAR AND SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR.
IN MAKING RECOMMENDATIONS ON NLB’S FARE INCREASE APPLICATION FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL, THE TAC ALSO TOOK NOTE OF THE FACT THAT NLB HAS CONTINUED TO IMPROVE ITS SERVICE IN TERMS OF AVAILABILITY, MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY STANDARDS AND HAS TAKEN A NUMBER OF MEASURES TO CUT DOWN ITS OPERATING COST.
ON TRANSPORT CONCESSIONARY SCHEMES FOR THE ELDERLY, MEMBERS WERE INFORMED THAT THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH HAD FORMED AN INTERDEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP TO STUDY THE ISSUANCE OF A SENIOR CITIZEN CARD TO ENABLE THE ELDERLY TO TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF VARIOUS CONCESSIONARY SCHEMES OFFERED BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT OPERATORS.
MEMBERS NOTED THAT VARIOUS OPTIONS WERE BEING EXAMINED CLOSELY AND THAT A DECISION WOULD SOON BE TAKEN.
THE COMMITTEE WAS ALSO BRIEFED ON A $900 MILLION PROGRAMME UNDERTAKEN BY KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION TO REFURBISH AND EXPAND THE KOWLOON STATION TO COPE WITH THE ANTICIPATED GROWTH IN RAIL TRAFFIC.
------0-------
AGREEMENT ON WATER SUPPLY FROM GUANGDONG
*****
FOLLOWING THE SUCCESSFUL MEETINGS IN GUANGDONG DURING JULY 5-8, BETWEEN OFFICIALS FROM THE GUANGDONG PROVINCIAL BUREAU OF WATER CONSERVANCY AND HYDRO-POWER AND FROM THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT, APPROVAL HAS NOW BEEN FORMALLY GIVEN BY THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL IN REGARD TO THE RECOMMENDATIONS ARISING FROM THE MEETING.
THESE RECOMMENDATIONS PROVIDE FOR THE CONTINUING SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 1989 AGREEMENT, UNDER THE TERMS OF WHICH HONG KONG PURCHASES RAW WATER TO MEET GROWING NEEDS.
THE QUANTITIES AND BASE PRICES FOR THE NEXT THREE YEARS, AGREED DURING THE NEGOTIATIONS,ARE:
/PERIOD .......
4
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
QUANTITY IN MILLION PRICE PER
PERIOD CUBIC METRES CUBIC METRE
1994 (MARCH - DECEMBER) 534 HK$1.940
1995 (JANUARY-DECEMBER) 690 HKS2.160
1996 (JANUARY-DECEMBER) 720 HK$2.405
THE AGREED UNIT PRICES REPRESENT AN AVERAGE ANNUAL INCREASE OF 10.72 PER CENT FOR THE PERIOD 1994/96. THE INCREASE IS SLIGHTLY LOWER THAN THE PREVIOUS ANNUAL 11 PER CENT RISE IN UNIT PRICES AGREED IN THE CURRENT PRICE AGREEMENT FOR THE PERIOD OF MARCH 1, 1991
TO FEBRUARY 28, 1994.
THE NEW BASE PRICES REFLECT THE ANTICIPATED RISING COST OF LABOUR AND MATERIALS. AT THE SAME TIME, IT HAS BEEN HELD DOWN TO MINIMISE ADVERSE COST IMPACT ON THE ULTIMATE COST OF WATER TO CONSUMERS IN HONG KONG.
THE RISE IN THE COST OF PURCHASING WATER FROM CHINA IS ONLY ONE OF THE FACTORS TO BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT IN THE ANNUAL EXERCISE TO DETERMINE WHETHER THERE SHOULD BE AN INCREASE IN WATER CHARGES TO CONSUMERS AND IF SO AT WHAT RATE SHOULD THE INCREASE BE.
FOR EXAMPLE, THE DOMESTIC WATER CHARGE WAS INCREASED BY 8.7 PER CENT FOR THE YEAR 1993/94 WHICH IS LESS THAN THE GENERAL RATE OF INFLATION.
SECRETARY FOR WORKS, MR JAMES BLAKE, IN WELCOMING THE FORMAL ACCEPTANCE BY HONG KONG GOVERNMENT FOR ITS PART OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS ARISING FROM THE MEETINGS, NOTED THAT THE EARLY COMPLETION BY THE GUANGDONG BUREAU OF EXPANSION WORKS FOR WATER SUPPLY PURPOSES WAS OF GREAT BENEFIT IN SECURING ADEQUATE RAW WATER SUPPLY TO HONG KONG.
THIS HAD BEEN ACHIEVED DESPITE THE INCREASING DEMANDS UPON CONSTRUCTION RESOURCES IN THE PROVINCE, AND WELL WITHIN THE TIME FRAME AGREED FOR THE WORKS BETWEEN BOTH PARTIES TO THE 1989 AGREEMENT.
DIRECTOR GUAN ZONGZHI OF THE GUANGDONG PROVINCIAL BUREAU OF WATER CONSERVANCY AND HYDRO-POWER SAID THE FOLLOWING WATER QUALITY PROTECTION MEASURES WERE BEING IMPLEMENTED:
(I) IN COLLABORATION WITH THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT, SERIOUS ENFORCEMENT OF THE LAWS AND REGULATIONS ON PROTECTION OF WATER QUALITY ENACTED BY THE GUANGDONG PEOPLE’S CONGRESS AND THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT AND STEPPING UP OF THE PROPAGANDA AND EDUCATION AND THE FUNCTION OF LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL, TO PROTECT THE WATER QUALITY;
(II) IN IMPLEMENTING THE POLICY OF "HE WHO POLLUTES BE RESPONSIBLE FOR UNDOING IT", THE GUANGDONG PEOPLE’S CONGRESS HAD LEGISLATED TO ALLOCATE A SPECTAI. SUM OF MONEY FROM THE REVENUE COLLECTED FROM THE SUPPLY OF EAST RIVER WATER TO SUBSIDIZE THE WORKS FOR POLLUTION TREATMENT IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT. IN ADDITION, THE GUANGDONG PEOPLE’S CONGRESS WAS ALSO PREPARED TO LEGISLATE FOR STRENGTHENING THE CONSERVATION AND PROTECTION OF WATER CATCHMENT AREA TO MORE EFFECTIVELY PROTECT THE WATER QUALITY;
/(III) ENHANCEMENT OF
5
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
(III) ENHANCEMENT OF THE MEASURES FOR CONTROLLING WATER QUALITY ALONG THE ROUTE OF DONGJIANG - SHENZHEN WATER SUPPLY SUCH AS PUTTING SUITABLE FISH STOCKS IN THE RESERVOIR AND IMPROVE THE BAINIKENG BIOLOGICAL ABSORPTION PILOT SCHEME, ETC.;
(IV) EXPANSION OF THE CAPACITY OF SHAWAN SEWAGE AND TREATMENT PLANT FROM 3,000 CUBIC METRES PER DAY TO 20,000 CUBIC METRES PER DAY AND DISCHARGING TO BUJI RIVER AFTER TREATMENT, USING THE METHOD OF CROSS RIVER BASIN DISPOSAL;
(V) CONSIDERATION OF INTRODUCING FROM DENMARK SEWAGE TREATMENT TECHNOLOGY AND SETTING UP A SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT AT TANGSHA;
(VI) PLANNING THE WORKS FOR ENSURING WATER QUALITY IN RESPECT OF THE DONGJIANG - SHENZHEN WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM AND ADOPTING CONSOLIDATED MEASURES OF SEPARATING POLLUTED WATER FROM CLEAN WATER AND SETTING UP SEWERAGE SYSTEM. THE GUANGDONG SIDE INDICATED THAT THE SPECIAL EMPHASIS PLACED ON THE PROTECTION OF WATER QUALITY OF THE DONGJIANG - SHENZHEN WATER SUPPLY. BOTH SIDES AGREED THAT THROUGH MUTUAL CO-OPERATION, WATER QUALITY WOULD IN FUTURE CONTINUE TO BE MAINTAINED AT THE AGREED REQUIRED STANDARDS.
---------0-----------
REGULATORY SYSTEM FOR ESTATE AGENTS BEING CONSIDERED * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT IS LOOKING INTO THE POSSIBILITY OF INTRODUCING A REGULATORY FRAMEWORK WITH LEGISLATIVE BACKING FOR REAL ESTATE AGENTS IN HONG KONG, THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS (LAND POLICY), MR CANICE MAK, SAID TODAY.
SPEAKING AT A SEMINAR ON LICENSING OF REAL ESTATE AGENTS, MR MAK SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD NOT YET FORMED A FIRM VIEW ON THE MATTER AND WOULD CONTINUE TO CONSULT INTERESTED PARTIES ON THE DETAILS SO THAT THE SHAPE OF A POSSIBLE REGULATORY SYSTEM COULD BE DRAWN UP.
MR MAK DENIED THAT THERE HAD BEEN PROCRASTINATION BECAUSE THE GOVERNMENT HAD TO PROCEED PRUDENTLY IN DRAWING UP THE DETAILS OF A REGULATORY SYSTEM WHICH WILL AFFECT THE LIVELIHOOD OF ABOUT 15,000 PEOPLE IN THE TRADE.
"WE NEED TO STEER A CAREFUL COURSE AND SHOULD NOT CONFUSE THE NEED TO ENSURE AN ACCEPTABLE STANDARD OF COMPETENCE WITH PUSHING FOR INCREASED PROFESSIONALISM JUST FOR ITS OWN SAKE.
"IF WE PURSUED THE LATTER COURSE TOO VIGOROUSLY, TOO FAST, IT WOULD BE THE CONSUMER WHO WOULD SUFFER FROM THE RESULTING LIMITED SUPPLY OF QUALIFIED PERSONNEL," HE SAID.
MR MAK SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS LISTENING TO THE VIEWS OF BOTH THE PUBLIC AND PEOPLE IN THE TRADE AND WILL PRESS ON VIGOROUSLY WITH THE WORK OF DRAWING UP A REGULATORY SYSTEM.
HE EMPHASISED THAT ANY LICENSING SYSTEM WILL HAVE TO SUIT THE PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES OF HONG KONG.
/MR MAK ........
6
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
MR MAK SAID THE LACK OF A FORMAL REGULATORY SYSTEM DID NOT MEAN THAT ESTATE AGENTS WERE NOT SUBJECT TO ANY CONTROL AT ALL.
’’UNDER THE COMMON LAW, AN ESTATE AGENT HAS A DUTY TO EXERCISE CARE AND SKILL, TO DISCLOSE ANY CONFLICT OF INTEREST AND NOT TO MAKE SECRET PROFITS OR BRIBES.
"THE I,AW OF MISREPRESENTATION ALSO ENABLES A PRINCIPAL TO CLAIM REMEDIES WHERE HE CAN SHOW THAT THE AGENT HAS INDUCED HIM TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT BY MAKING UNTRUE STATEMENTS OF FACT.
"A PRINCIPAL IS ENTITLED TO CLAIM DAMAGES AND/OR TO RESCIND THE CONTRACT.
"IN ADDITION, ESTATE AGENT ACTIVITIES ARE ACTIONABLE UNDER VARIOUS ORDINANCES SUCH AS THE PREVENTION OF BRIBERY ORDINANCE, THE THEFT ORDINANCE AND THE LEGAL PRACTITIONERS ORDINANCE WHERE FRAUD OR CORRUPTION IS INVOLVED," HE SAID.
-----0------
SHIPPING AND PORT CONTROL (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993
*****
THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL TODAY (TUESDAY) APPROVED THE SHIPPING AND PORT CONTROL (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993 TO DESIGNATE RESTRICTED AREAS IN THE WATERS ADJACENT TO THE TSING YI (SOUTH), TSING YI (NORTH) AND AP LEI CHAU BRIDGES.
THE REGULATION WILL BE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE ON AUGUST 6 AND WILL COME INTO EFFECT ON THE SAME DAY.
THE REGULATION IS TO DESIGNATE A RESTRICTED AREA IN RAMBLER CHANNEL SO THAT, EXCEPT WITH THE PERMISSION OF THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, NO VESSEL HAVING A MAST OR SUPERSTRUCTURE HEIGHT EXCEEDING 17 METRES ABOVE SEA LEVEL IS ALLOWED:
* IN THE CASE OF VESSEL BEING TOWED, TO ENTER, BERTH OR UNBERTH WITHIN THE AREA UNLESS IT IS BEING TOWED BY SUCH NUMBER OF TUGS OR OTHER VESSELS AS MAY REASONABLY BE REQUIRED TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF THE VESSEL HAVING REGARD TO THE CIRCUMSTANCES PERTAINING THERETO; OR
» TO APPROACH A BRIDGE IN SUCH A WAY AS TO PREJUDICE THE SAFETY OF THE BRIDGE
SIMILAR RESTRICTIONS WILL ALSO APPLY TO THE WATERS ADJACENT TO THE AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE FOR VESSEL HAVING A MAST OR SUPERSTRUCTURE HEIGHT EXCEEDING 14 METRES ABOVE SEA LEVEL.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE MARINE DEPARTMENT SAID: "IN DETERMINING A MAXIMUM HEIGHT LIMIT, THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE HAS REGARD TO THE MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE CLEARANCE WITHIN THE SPAN OF A BRIDGE, SO AS TO ALLOW A SUFFICIENT SAFETY MARGIN FOR WORST CASE SITUATIONS."
THE PORT OPERATIONS COMMITTEE, THE PROVISIONAL LOCAL VESSEL ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND THE HONG KONG (’ARGO VESSEL TRADERS ASSOCIATION HAVE BEEN CONSULTED.
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
BRIDGE TOWER REACHES 100 METRES MARK
*****
THE FIRST OF THE TWO GIANT CONCRETE TOWERS WHICH WILL SUPPORT THE TSING MA BRIDGE HAS REACHED A HEIGHT OF 100 METRES, EIGHT WEEKS AFTER CONSTRUCTION BEGAN.
WHEN THE JOB IS COMPLETED IN MID-SEPTEMBER THE CONCRETE TOWER, LOCATED ON TSING YI, WILL BE 190 METRES - THE SAME HEIGHT AS SOME OF THE MODERN 50-STOREY OFFICE BUILDINGS IN HONG KONG’S CENTRAL DISTRICT.
WORK ON THE SECOND 190-METRE CONCRETE TOWER, AT THE MA WAN END OF THE BRIDGE, IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN AUGUST AND BE COMPLETED IN ABOUT THREE MONTHS.
THE TOWERS ARE BEING BUILT BY A PROCESS KNOWN AS SLIPFORMING, WHICH ACCELERATES THE SPEED AT WHICH CONCRETE CAN BE POURED.
THE FORMS - OR SHUTTERS - WHICH SURROUND THE CONCRETE MOVE STEADILY UPWARDS.
THIS IS A QUICKER PROCESS COMPARED WITH THE MORE CONVENTIONAL BUILDING METHODS WHERE THE FORMS ARE DISMANTLED AND RE-ERECTED AT EVERY STAGE OF THE CONSTRUCTION.
STEEL TRUSSES WEIGHING UP TO 185 TONES EACH WILL BE INSTALLED TO BRACE THE TOWER LEGS TEMPORARILY AS CONCRETE WORK PROCEEDS.
THE TRUSSES WILL EVENTUALLY BE ENCASED IN REINFORCED CONCRETE AND PRESTRESSED TO THE TOWER LEGS.
REINFORCED CONCRETE PLINTHS WILL BE CONSTRUCTED ON TOP OF THE TOWER AFTER THE SLIPFORMING OPERATION. STEEL SADDLES WILL THEN BE ERECTED ON THE PLINTHS TO CARRY THE MAIN SUSPENSION BRIDGE CABLES. THIS WILL BRING THE TOTAL HEIGHT OF THE TOWER TO ABOVE 200 METRES.
BY SPRING NEXT YEAR THE SHAPE OF THE TSING MA BRIDGE, WHICH WILL BE ONE OF THE WORLD’S LONGEST SUSPENSION BRIDGES, WILL START TO EMERGE WHEN WORK BEGINS ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE TEMPORARY CATWALKS, FROM WHICH THE MAIN CABLES WILL BE CONSTRUCTED USING A PROCESS KNOWN AS AERIAL WIRE SPINNING.
THE TSING MA BRIDGE, PART OF THE LANTAU FIXED CROSSING, IS A KEY ELEMENT OF THE TRANSPORT NETWORK IN THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME LINKING NORTH LANTAU AND THE AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK TO THE REST OF HONG KONG.
IT IS BEING CONSTRUCTED UNDER A $7.14 BILLION CONTRACT AWARDED LAST MAY TO THE ANGLO-JAPANESE CONSTRUCTION JOINT VENTURE.
THE BRIDGE WAS DESIGNED FOR THE GOVERNMENT HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT BY MOTT MACDONALD HONG KONG LIMITED.
- - 0-------
/8 ........
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
- 8 -
HK MAKES GOOD PROGRESS ON AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME
HONG KONG IS MAKING GOOD PROGRESS WITH THE CONSTRUCTION OF ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMMES, THE DIRECTOR OF THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECTS CO-ORDINATION OFFICE (NAPCO), MR BILLY LAM, SAID IN SEATTLE, USA, YESTERDAY (MONDAY).
MR LAM SAID REMARKABLE, VISIBLE PROGRESS HAD ALREADY BEEN MADE ON THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME (ACP) SINCE THE SIGNING OF THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING TWO YEARS AGO.
THE RECENT CHINESE AGREEMENT ON THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING FRANCHISE AND THE CENTRAL AND WANCHA1 RECLAMATION PROJECT HAD GIVEN THE PROGRAMME FURTHER IMPETUS.
MR LAM WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING SESSION OF THE PACIFIC RIM TRANSTECH CONFERENCE HELD BETWEEN JULY 25 AND 28 AT THE WASHINGTON STATE CONVENTION CENTRE IN SEATTLE.
OUTLINING PROGRESS OF THE ACP, MR LAM SAID TO DATE, PHYSICAL WORKS FOR SIX OF THE 10 ACP PROJECTS WERE ALREADY UNDER WAY AND OTHERS WOULD SOON BE STARTING. THESE SIX PROJECTS INCLUDED THE AIRPORT, TWO RECLAMATION PROJECTS AND MOST OF THE HIGHWAY PROJECTS.
"SO FAR, 27 MAJOR ACP CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS WORTH OVER US$4.5 BILLION (ABOUT HK$35 BILLION) HAVE BEEN LET, ALL ON SCHEDULE FOR COMPLETION AND WITHIN BUDGET.
"OF THESE, 23 ARE GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS, AMOUNTING TO 68 PER CENT OF ALL GOVERNMENT ACP WORK BY VALUE, AND FOUR BELONG TO THE PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY, INCLUDING THE US$1.2 BILLION (ABOUT HK$9 BILLION) SITE PREPARATION CONTRACT TO FORM THE AIRPORT ISLAND," HE SAID.
MR LAM TOLD DELEGATES THAT IN LINE WITH HONG KONG’S TRADITIONAL FREE TRADE AND "OPEN DOOR" POLICY AS AN INTERNATIONAL COMMERCE, TRADE, FINANCIAL, AVIATION AND COMMUNICATIONS CENTRE, HONG KONG ENCOURAGED INTERNATIONAL PARTICIPATION TN ITS ACP PROJECTS AND ADOPTED A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD APPROACH TO TENDERERS IN ALL CONTRACTS.
"INDEED, THE ACP HAS ALREADY DRAWN PARTICIPATION FROM COUNTRIES WORLDWIDE. TAKING THE LEAD IN MAJOR CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS AWARDED ARE COMPANIES FROM JAPAN (23 PER CENT BY VALUE), FOLLOWED BY THE UK (18.5 PER CENT) AND THE NETHERLANDS (14.8 PER CENT)," HE SAID.
MR LAM ADDED THAT IN ORDER TO MEET THE PRIME OBJECTIVE OF COMPLETING ALL 10 PROJECTS ON SCHEDULE AND WITHIN BUDGET, AN OVERALL BASELINE PLAN HAD BEEN ESTABLISHED TO SET DOWN THE FIRM SCOPE, CRITICAL PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES AND MILESTONES, AND DETAILED BUDGET FOR THE WHOLE ACP.
"TOGETHER WITH A FIRM CASH LIMIT ON EACH PROJECT, AND A REGIME OF FIXED PRICE LUMP SUM CONTRACTS AWARDED AFTER OPEN COMPETITIVE TENDERING, I AM HAPPY TO SAY THAT, SO FAR, THE ACP IS ON SCHEDULE FOR COMPLETION AND WITHIN BUDGET.
"THIS IS, BY ANY STANDARD, A REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT FOR AN INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMME OF SUCH SCALE," HE SAID.
/ON THE .......
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
9
ON THE CONTINUING TALKS WITH CHINA ON THE DETAILED FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE AIRPORT AND THE AIRPORT RAILWAY, MR LAM SAID: "WE ARE OPTIMISTIC THAT THE TALKS WILL SOON LEAD TO AN AGREEMENT ON FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS, THUS ADDING FURTHER IMPETUS TO THE CURRENT MOMENTUM."
THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF NAPCO, MR H K WONG, ADDRESSED ONE OF THE SEMINARS HELD AS PART OF THE CONFERENCE AND EXPLAINED IN DETAIL HOW HONG KONG WAS BUILDING A TRANSPORT NETWORK TO LINK THE AIRPORT TO THE URBAN AREAS.
ABOUT 1,500 TOP EXECUTIVES FROM 33 COUNTRIES ACROSS THE WORLD AND THE UNITED STATES ARE ATTENDING THE CONFERENCE TO LEARN ABOUT THE NEWEST AND MOST ADVANCED TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS BEING DEVELOPED IN THE PACIFIC RIM.
DELEGATES WILL ALSO HAVE THE CHANCE TO LEARN ABOUT THE ACP FROM A NAPCO STAND IN AN EXHIBITION WHICH IS BEING STAGED AS PART OF THE CONFERENCE.
DETAILS OF THE 10 PROJECTS ON THE ACP ARE SHOWN THROUGH A VARIETY OF DISPLAYS, INCLUDING MODELS AND A VIDEO, AND INFORMATION KITS ARE BEING DISTRIBUTED.
------0-------
WRITTEN CONTRACT FOR OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT A MUST
*****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY) REMINDED EMPLOYEES INTENDING TO WORK OUTSIDE HONG KONG FOR FOREIGN EMPLOYERS TO ENTER INTO WRITTEN EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS BEFORE THEY LEAVE HONG KONG FOR EMPLOYMENT TO SAFEGUARD THEIR OWN INTERESTS.
UNDER THE CONTRACTS FOR EMPLOYMENT OUTSIDE HONG KONG ORDINANCE, A FOREIGN EMPLOYER WHO IS NOT IN HONG KONG AND NOT CARRYING ON A BUSINESS IN HONG KONG, IS REQUIRED TO ENTER INTO A WRITTEN CONTRACT WITH ALL LOCAL MANUAL AND NON-MANUAL EMPLOYEES WITH MONTHLY WAGES NOT EXCEEDING $20,000 FOR WORK OUTSIDE HONG KONG.
LABOUR OFFICER (EXTERNAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE), MISS CORRINA CHENG, SAID THE CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT MUST BE PRESENTED TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT FOR ATTESTATION BEFORE THE EMPLOYEE’S DEPARTURE.
"THIS IS TO ENSURE THAT THE TERMS OF PROTECTION SPECIFIED IN THE CONTRACT ARE IN NO WAY LESS FAVOURABLE THAN THE PROVISIONS UNDER THE LOCAL EMPLOYMENT LEGISLATION,” SHE EXPLAINED.
"A CONTRACT WITH TERMS WHICH ARE UNFAIR TO THE EMPLOYEE OR DO NOT ADEQUATELY PROTECT THE EMPLOYEE’S INTERESTS WILL NOT BE ATTESTED," SHE STRESSED.
MISS CHENG POINTED OUT THAT A DULY ATTESTED CONTRACT COULD NOT ONLY CLEARLY DEFINE THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE CONTRACTING PARTIES BUT WOULD ALSO ENSURE THAT THE TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT ARE REASONABLE.
/IT SHOULD .......
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
10
IT SHOULD INCLUDE SUCH DETAILS AS PAY, NATURE AND HOURS OF WORK, HOLIDAYS, SICKNESS ALLOWANCE, EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION, PROVISION OF FOOD AND ACCOMMODATION, REPATRIATION ARRANGEMENT AND PROVISIONS FOR DEPENDANTS.
"IN ORDER TO SAFEGUARD THE INTERESTS OF THE EMPLOYEES WORKING OVERSEAS FOR FOREIGN EMPLOYERS, THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL REQUIRE A HONG KONG RESIDENT NOMINATED BY THE EMPLOYER TO FURNISH A BOND OR GUARANTEE BEFORE ATTESTING THE CONTRACT," MISS CHENG SAID.
SHE SAID IT WAS AN OFFENCE FOR AN EMPLOYER OR HIS AGENT WHO FAILED TO ENTER INTO A WRITTEN CONTRACT WITH THE EMPLOYEE OR FAILED TO PRESENT THE CONTRACT TO THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT FOR ATTESTATION BEFORE THE EMPLOYEE’S DEPARTURE.
"THE EMPLOYER OR HIS AGENT WILL ALSO BE LIABLE TO PROSECUTION FOR INDUCING AN EMPLOYEE TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WHICH DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE ORDINANCE, OR INDUCING THE EMPLOYEE TO DEPART HONG KONG TO TAKE UP EMPLOYMENT BEFORE THE CONTRACT IS ATTESTED," SHE SAID.
OFFENDERS WILL BE LIABLE, ON CONVICTION, TO A FINE OF $50,000.
ENQUIRIES ON THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES UNDER THE ORDINANCE MAY BE MADE TO THE EXTERNAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE ON TEL 852 3535.
------0------------
JUSTICE OF APPEAL AND HIGH COURT JUDGES APPOINTED
******
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE JUDICIARY TODAY (TUESDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT, WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT, THE HONOURABLE MR JUSTICE MORTIMER, A JUDGE OF THE HIGH COURT, HAD BEEN APPOINTED A JUSTICE OF APPEAL.
MR JUSTICE MORTIMER JOINED THE JUDICIARY IN HONG KONG IN SEPTEMBER 1985 AS A HIGH COURT JUDGE. PRIOR TO THAT DATE HE PRACTISED AS A QUEEN’S COUNSEL AT THE ENGLISH BAR.
THE JUDICIARY ALSO ANNOUNCED THE APPOINTMENT OF THREE NEW HIGH COURT JUDGES. THEY ARE MR JEROME CHAN, DEPUTY REGISTRAR, SUPREME COURT, MR ANTHONY ROGERS, QC AND MR MICHAEL STUART-MOORE, QC.
MR JUSTICE JEROME CHAN’S APPOINTMENT WILL TAKE EFFECT IMMEDIATELY AND MR ANTHONY ROGERS, QC AND MR MICHAEL STUART-MOORE, QC WILL TAKE UP THEIR APPOINTMENTS IN SEPTEMBER.
MR JUSTICE JEROME CHAN WAS BORN AND EDUCATED IN HONG KONG, GRADUATING LL.B AND P.C.LL IN 1975.
HE JOINED THE HONG KONG BAR IN 1976 AND WAS IN PRIVATE PRACTICE UNTIL 1985 WHEN HE JOINED THE JUDICIARY.
HE HAS SERVED AS MAGISTRATE, PRESIDING OFFICER, LABOUR TRIBUNAL, AND DISTRICT JUDGE AND WAS APPOINTED DEPUTY REGISTRAR, SUPREME COURT IN 1990.
/MR JUSTICE .......
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
11
MR JUSTICE JEROME CHAN IS MARRIED WITH THREE CHILDREN.
MR ANTHONY ROGERS, QC WAS BORN IN 1946 AND EDUCATED IN ENGLAND.
HE WAS CALLED TO THE BAR BY GRAY’S INN IN 1968 AND PRACTISED IN ENGLAND UNTIL 1976.
HE BEGAN PRACTICE AT THE HONG KONG BAR IN 1976 AND BECAME A QUEEN’S COUNSEL IN 1984.
HE IS A PAST-CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG BAR ASSOCIATION, MR ROGERS IS MARRIED WITH THREE CHILDREN.
MR MICHAEL STUART-MOORE, QC, IS MARRIED WITH TWO CHILDREN. HE WAS EDUCATED IN ENGLAND AND CALLED TO THE BAR BY MIDDLE TEMPLE IN 1966 AND TOOK SILK IN 1990.
HE HAS SAT AS A DEPUTY CIRCUIT JUDGE AND AS A RECORDER IN THE CENTRAL CRIMINAL COURT, AND IS A MEMBER OF THE DISCIPLINARY TRIBUNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF THE INNS OF COURT.
- - 0 - -
AUCTION OF LUCKY CAR REGISTRATION MARKS * * * * *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD ANOTHER AUCTION OF LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS ON SATURDAY (JULY 31) AT 9.30 AM AT THE LECTURE HALL, SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, FIFTH FLOOR, URBAN COUNCIL SHEUNG WAN COMPLEX AT 345 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, HONG KONG.
A TOTAL OF 50 LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR BIDDING. THEY ARE:
FF2628 FG318 FF8887 FG106
FG861 FF9888 FF280 FF8300
♦FM909 ♦FJ3838 *CC8000 *2881
DT691 AC9997 FF9298 FG760
FG866 FF238 FG911 BM1957
FF6838 FG112 AU2836 FF6208
CH590 HK3303 FG9886 FG7 76
»FM77 *FK6 «FN888 ♦ FP41
FF729 AA1955 FG819 FG2311
FF106 FG189 DC7772 FF7707
FF1728 CA1958 ♦FN9292 FF6543
FG4022 CT7730 FF4877 *FM717
FG149 FF9115
* 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.
/MR CERTIFICATE .......
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
12
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 199TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973.
------0-------
FS VISITS ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT *****
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, WAS BRIEFED THIS (TUESDAY) AFTERNOON ON THE COMPUTER SYSTEMS USED BY THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT TO ENHANCE WORK EFFICIENCY AND TO CUT COSTS.
DURING A TWO-HOUR VISIT TO THE DEPARTMENT, MR MACLEOD LEARNED THAT THE DEPARTMENT HAD EMBARKED ON A FIVE-YEAR PROGRAMME TO EXPAND AND UPGRADE ITS COMPUTER SYSTEMS.
HIS VISIT BEGAN WITH A BRIEFING GIVEN BY THE DIRECTOR OF ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES, MR PAUL CORSER, ON THE DEPARTMENT’S INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT IN RECENT YEARS.
SINCE EARLY 1990, IT HAS BEEN WORKING ON A PLANNED DEPARTMENTAL INFORMATION STRATEGY WHICH AIMS AT INTEGRATING INDIVIDUAL COMPUTER APPLICATIONS.
THE INTEGRATED APPROACH WOULD PROVIDE INFORMATION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AND MEET THE NEEDS OF THE DEPARTMENT.
THE OBJECTIVES ARE TO PROVIDE A STANDARDISED FRAMEWORK OF MANAGEMENT OF PROJECTS AND PROGRAMME CONTROL, TO PROVIDE SYSTEMATIC EVALUATION OF RESOURCES REQUIRED, AND TO MONITOR THE DEPARTMENT’S PERFORMANCE.
ACCOMPANIED BY MR CORSER, MR MACLEOD INSPECTED VARIOUS COMPUTER SYSTEMS.
------0-------
CENTRAL REGISTER SUPPLIES BUSINESS DATA
******
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT MAINTAINS A COMPREHENSIVE AND UP-TO-DATE COMPUTERISED CENTRAL REGISTER OF AROUND 300,000 ESTABLISHMENTS IN HONG KONG TO SERVE MAINLY AS THE SAMPLING FRAME FOR ITS VARIOUS ECONOMIC SURVEYS.
MANY OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS ALSO MAKE USE OF THE REGISTER FOR PUBLICITY, SURVEY AND RESEARCH WORK.
/A SAMPLE .......
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
13
A SAMPLE LISTING CONTAINING 20 PER CENT OF THE RECORDS RANDOMLY SELECTED FROM THE CENTRAL REGISTER IS CREATED FOR USE BY THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN MARKET RESEARCH, STATISTICAL SURVEYS AND BUSINESS OR PRODUCT PROMOTION.
APPLICATION FOR THE SUPPLY OF A PHOTOCOPY OR A MAGNETIC TAPE OF THE LISTING OF NON-CONFIDENTIAL PARTICULARS SUCH AS NAME, ADDRESS, MAJOR TYPE OF BUSINESS ACTIVITY AND EMPLOYMENT SIZE CLASS CAN BE MADE TO THE CENTRAL REGISTER SECTION OF THE DEPARTMENT.
A CHARGE WILL BE LEVIED FOR THIS SERVICE. THE RATES ARE:
* $4.3 PER PAGE OF PHOTOCOPY; AND
» A MINIMUM CHARGE OF $530 FOR A JOB REQUIRING UP TO 20 COMPUTER RESOURCES UNITS (CRU’S) PLUS $26.5 FOR EACH CRU IN EXCESS OF 20 CRU’S, IF THE INFORMATION IS REQUIRED ON MAGNETIC TAPES. THE MAGNETIC TAPE CAN BE PROVIDED BY APPLICANTS OR BY THE DEPARTMENT AT A CHARGE OF $105 PER TAPE.
FURTHER DETAILS OF THE SERVICE CAN BE OBTAINED BY CALLING THE CENTRAL REGISTER SECTION OF THE DEPARTMENT ON TEL 582 4760.
--------0-----------
HONG KONG
TENDER DATE
PAPER ON OFFER
ISSUE NUMBER
AMOUNT APPLIED
AMOUNT ALLOTTED
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED
PRO RATA RATIO
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD
GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS ♦ * * * »
27 JUL 93
EF BILLS
Q330
HK$2,968 MN
HK$l,000 MN
3.18 PCT
3.20 PCT
ABOUT 1 PCT
3.20 PCT
/HONG KONG .......
TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1993
14
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 2 AUGUST 1993 -
TENDER DATE 3 AUG 93 3 AUG 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q331 H370
ISSUE DATE 4 AUG 93 4 AUG 93
MATURITY DATE 3 NOV 93 2 FEB 94
TENOR 91 DAYS 182 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HK$l,000 + 200 MN n HK$400 + 80 MN
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS * » t ♦ * FUND
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,960
REVERSAL OF LAF + 40
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -190
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,810
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.7 »+0.It 27.7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.51 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.59 3.84
1 MONTH 2.75 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.76 4.06
3 MONTHS 3.19 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.76 4.28
6 MONTHS 3.47 PCT 12 MONTHS 3.81 PCT TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS 22 MONTHS AND BONDS - 2505 17,565 MN 3.75 98.75 4.53
CLOSED JULY 27, 1993
Received by PRO
on
-J233
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 1993
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
LAND REGISTRY STATISTICS FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 .............. 1
LABOUR DEPT READY TO HELP RETRENCHED WORKERS ..................... 2
PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR JUNF ................... 2
TSO SHIU-WAI ELECTED TO LEGCO .................................... 5
SOUVENIR COVER MARKS STAMP EXHIBITION ............................ 5
FISHERIES STUDY TOUR DEPARTS FOR MEXICO ON FRIDAY ................ 5
270 VM’S RETURNED TODAY .......................................... 6
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .
7
WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 1993
LAND REGISTRY STATISTICS FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 *****
THE LAND REGISTRY REGISTERED 62,791 SALES AND PURCHASE AGREEMENTS OF BUILDING UNITS DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF THIS YEAR.
THE FIGURE REPRESENTED AN INCREASE OF 4.1 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THAT OF THE PRECEDING SIX MONTHS, BUT A DECREASE OF 16.2 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE FIGURE FOR THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD OF LAST YEAR.
THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF THE CONSIDERATIONS INVOLVED IN THESE AGREEMENTS WAS $157.86 BILLION, WHICH WAS UP BY ONE PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE FIGURE OF THE SECOND HALF OF 1992, BUT DOWN BY 5.1 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THAT OF FIRST HALF OF LAST YEAR.
DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1993, 62,338 ASSIGNMENTS OF BUILDING UNITS, THE MAJORITY BEING RESIDENTIAL, WERE SUBMITTED FOR REGISTRATION.
WHEN COMPARED WITH 83,822 AND 74,098 RECORDED DURING THE SECOND AND FIRST HALVES OF 1992, THE FIGURE SHOWED A DECREASE OF 25.6 PER CENT AND OF 15.9 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
THE AMOUNT OF CONSIDERATIONS INVOLVED, TOTALLING $130.41 BILLION, ALSO INDICATES DECREASES WHEN COMPARED WITH THE- TWO PRECEDING SIX-MONTH PERIOD.
THE TOTAL AMOUNT SECURED UNDER MORTGAGES (OTHER THAN BUILDING MORTGAGES) WAS $48.30 BILLION, SHOWING AN INCREASE OF 21.9 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE FIGURE OF THE SECOND HALF OF 1992 BUT A DECREASE OF 1.2 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THAT OF THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF LAST YEAR.
SEARCHES OF LAND RECORDS MADE BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF 1993 TOTALLED 1,570,300, UP BX 3.2 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE FIGURE OF THE PRECEDING PERIOD BUT DOWN BY 6.8 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THAT OF THE FIRST HALF OF 1992.
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PROPERTY OWNERS ROSE BY 2.4 PER CENT FROM 1,469,604 IN JUNE 1992 TO 1,505,003 IN DECEMBER 1992 AND AGAIN BY 1.8 PER CENT TO 1,532,459 IN JUNE 1993.
--------0-----------
/2 ........
WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 1993
2
LABOUR DEPT READY TO HELP RETRENCHED WORKERS * * * * *
IN RESPONSE TO ENQUIRIES ON ASSISTANCE TO RETRENCHED EMPLOYEES OF THE CHINA MOTOR BUS COMPANY LIMITED (CMB), A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THE DEPARTMENT’S LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (LES) AND THE LABOUR RELATIONS SERVICE (LRS) WERE READY TO HELP.
"A SPECIAL OFFICE IN CHAI WAN, WHICH IS LOCATED ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF YUE ON HOUSE, YUE WAN ESTATE, HAS BEEN SET UP TO HELP WORKERS SEEK ALTERNATIVE EMPLOYMENT," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
WORKERS CAN APPROACH THE OFFICE EITHER IN PERSON OR BY TELEPHONE ON 557 3924.
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT ASSISTANCE WOULD BE PROVIDED TO RETRENCHED WORKERS BY SENDING RESUMES OF THE WORKERS TO INTERESTED POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS AND ARRANGING JOB INTERVIEWS WITH PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYERS AT THE EARLIEST POSSIBLE TIME.
"STAFF OF THE SPECIAL OFFICE WILL DISTRIBUTE INFORMATION LEAFLETS ON THE LES, VACANCIES AVAILABLE AND RETRAINING OPPORTUNITIES (INCLUDING THE ON-THE-JOB TRAINING SCHEME) TO THE RETRENCHED EMPLOYEES," HE SAID.
AS REGARDS MATTERS RELATING TO THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE AND LABOUR RELATIONS ISSUES, THEY ARE ADVISED TO CONSULT THE HONG KONG EAST LRS OFFICE, WHICH IS LOCATED AT THE EASTERN LAW COURTS BUILDING, 29 TAI ON STREET, TN PERSON OR BY TEL ON 9222 7000, HE ADDED.
- - 0 - -
PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR JUNE
*****
IN JUNE 1993, WHILE RE-EXPORTS STILL RECORDED A NOTABLE INCREASE, DOMESTIC EXPORTS FELL MARKEDLY, THE GROWTH IN IMPORTS ALSO SLOWED DOWN.
THESE ARE SHOWN IN THE PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE RELEASED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TN JUNE 1993 ROSE BY $7,928 MILLION OR 13% OVER A YEAR EARLIER TO $67,041 MILLION.
THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS DECREASED BY $2,602 MILLION OR 12% TO $18,509 MILLION.
TAKING RE-EXPORTS AND DOMESTIC EXPORTS TOGETHER, THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS IN JUNE 1993 GREW BY $5,326 MILLION OR 6.6% OVER A YEAR EARLIER TO $85,551 MILLION.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS INCREASED BY $4,673 MILLION OR 5.5% TO $89,295 MILLION.
/AS THE
WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 1993
3
AS THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS WAS SMALLER THAN THAT OF TOTAL IMPORTS, A VISIBLE TRADE DEFICIT OF $3,744 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 4.2% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, WAS RECORDED IN JUNE 1993.
THIS COMPARED WITH A DEFICIT OF $4,396 MILLION, EQUIVALENT 5.2% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, RECORDED IN JUNE 1992.
TO
IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS AMOUNTED TO $375,789 MILLION, WHICH WAS $66,557 MILLION OR 22% HIGHER THAN A YEAR EARLIER.
THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS, AT $103,182 MILLION, WAS $3,759
MILLION OR 3.5% LOWER THAN THAT IN THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
TAKING RE-EXPORTS AND DOMESTIC EXPORTS TOGETHER, THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, AT $478,971 MILLION, WAS $62,798 MILLION OR 15% HIGHER THAN A YEAR EARLIER.
THE VALUE OF IMPORTS INCREASED BY $64,080 MILLION OR 15% TO $506,726 MILLION.
A TRADE DEFICIT OF $27,755 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 5.5% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, WAS RECORDED IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993.
THIS COMPARED WITH A TRADE DEFICIT OF $26,473 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 6.0% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, RECORDED A YEAR EARLIER.
THE SHARE OF RE-EXPORTS IN THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS FURTHER ROSE TO 78% IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, COMPARED WITH 74% A YEAR EARLIER, REFLECTING THE STRUCTURAL SHIFT FROM DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO REEXPORTS. OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THE VALUE OF RETAINED IMPORTS GREW BY 4.5%.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN COMMENTED THAT THE TRADE PERFORMANCE AS REFLECTED IN THE JUNE FIGURES WAS SOMEWHAT BELOW EXPECTATIONS.
WHILE THE REDUCED GROWTH RATES WERE DUE IN PART TO A HIGH BASE OF COMPARISON IN JUNE LAST YEAR (IN JUNE 1992, THE YEAR-ON-YEAR GROWTH RATES OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS WERE RATHER HIGH, AT 12% AND 40% RESPECTIVELY), THE WEAKER THAN EXPECTED DEMAND IN HONG KONG’S MAJOR MARKETS WAS ALSO LIKELY TO HAVE BEEN A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTORY FACTOR.
THE FOLLOWING TABLE PRESENTS THE PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN JUNE 1993.
A MORE DETAILED ANALYSIS OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE IN JUNE 1993, BY COMMODITY AND COUNTRY, WILL BE RELEASED IN MID-AUGUST.
/MERCHANDISE .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 1993
MERCHANDISE: DOMESTIC EXPORTS : RE-EXPORTS :
TOTAL EXPORTS :
IMPORTS :
TRADE BALANCE :
$18,509 MILLION $67,041 MILLION $85,551 MILLION
$89,295 MILLION
-$ 3,744 MILLION
COMPARATIVE FIGURES
LATEST 3 MONTHS APR 93 TO JUN 93 HK$ MN. APR 92 TO JUN 92 HK$ MN. CHANGE
HK$ MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 54,473 58,235 -3,762 -6.5
(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (21.3%) (25.6%)
RE-EXPORTS 201,591 169,620 +31,971 + 18.8
TOTAL EXPORTS 256,064 227,855 +28,209 + 12.4
IMPORTS 273,672 244,690 +28,982 + 11.8
TRADE BALANCE -17,608 -16,835 -773
JUNE JUNE CHANGE
SAME MONTH LAST YEAR 1993 1992
HK$ MN. HK$ MN. HK$ MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 18,509 21,111 -2,602 -12.3
(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (21.6%) (26.3%)
RE-EXPORTS 67,041 59,114 +7,928 + 13.4
TOTAL EXPORTS 85,551 80,225 +5,326 + 6.6
IMPORTS 89,295 84,621 +4,673 + 5.5
TRADE BALANCE -3,744 -4,396 + 652
JUNE MAY CHANGE
LAST MONTH 1993 1993
HK$ MN. HK$ MN. HK$ MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 18,509 18,149 + 360 + 2.0
(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (21.6%) (21.3%)
RE-EXPORTS 67,041 66,935 + 106 + 0.2
TOTAL EXPORTS 85,551 85,084 + 467 + 0.5
IMPORTS 89,295 90,724 -1,429 -1.6
TRADE BALANCE -3,744 -5,640 + 1,896
JAN-JUN JAN-JUN CHANGE
CALENDAR YEAR TO-DATE 1993 1992
HK$ MN. HK$ MN. HK$ MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 103,182 106,941 -3,759 -3.5
(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (21.5%) (25.7%)
RE-EXPORTS 375,789 309,232 +66,557 + 21.5
TOTAL EXPORTS 478,971 416,173 +62,798 + 15.1
IMPORTS 506,726 442,646 +64,080 + 14.5
TRADE BALANCE -27,755 -26,473 -1 ,282
JUL 92 TO JUL 91 TO CHANGE
LAST 12 MONTHS JUN 93 JUN 92
HK$ MN. HK$ MN. HK$ MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 230,364 233,062 -2,698 -1.2
(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (23.3%) (27.6%)
RE-EXPORTS 757,387 610,960 +146,427 + 24.0
TOTAL EXPORTS 987,751 844,022 +143,729 + 17.0
IMPORTS 1,019,375 862,407 +156,968 + 18.2
TRADE BALANCE -31,624 -18,386 -13,238
- - 0 - -
/5 ........
5
WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 1993
TSO SHIU-WAI ELECTED TO LEGCO * * * * *
MR TSO SHIU-WAI WAS TODAY (WEDNESDAY) ELECTED TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN THE REGIONAL COUNCIL FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCY BY-ELECTION.
MR TSO WON A TOTAL OF 17 VOTES TO DEFEAT THREE OTHER CANDIDATES MR YEUNG FUK-KWONG (SIX VOTES), MR LAU KONG-WAH (FIVE VOTES) AND MR CHOW YICK-HAY (FIVE VOTES). ----------------------------------0-------
SOUVENIR COVER MARKS STAMP EXHIBITION ******
POST OFFICE WILL ISSUE A SPECIALLY DESIGNED SOUVENIR COVER ON AUGUST 16 TO COMMEMORATE ITS PARTICIPATION IN AN INTERNATIONAL STAMP EXHIBITION IN SINGAPORE.
THE ACTING POSTMASTER GENERAL, MRS DORIS HO, SAID THE EXHIBITION - SINGPEX ’93 - WILL BE HELD FROM AUGUST 21 TO 23.
THE SOUVENIR COVER, AT $1 EACH, WILL BE ON SALE AT THE FOLLOWING SIX PHILATELIC OFFICES:
BEACONSFIELD HOUSE POST OFFICE GENERAL POST OFFICE GRANVILLE ROAD POST OFFICE PEAK POST OFFICE SHA TIN CENTRAL POST OFFICE TS1M SHA TSUI POST OFFICE
ON AUGUST 21 WHEN THE EXHIBITION OPENS, A HAND-BACK SERVICE WILL BE PROVIDED AT THE SIX PHILATELIC OFFICES FOR THE OFFICIAL SOUVENIR COVERS AND ANY PRIVATELY MADE COVERS BEARING AN INDICATION OF THE EXHIBITION.
A SPECIAL DATESTAMP AND A CACHET WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR THE PURPOSE.
------0-------
FISHERIES STUDY TOUR DEPARTS FOR MEXICO ON FRIDAY *****
A 10-MEMBER DELEGATION, COMPRISING LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR MR LAU WAH-SUM AND DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DR LAWRENCE LEE, WILL DEPART FOR MEXICO ON FRIDAY (JULY 30) TO STUDY ITS FISHING INDUSTRY, PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY AND MARKETING SYSTEMS.
TO MARK THE DELEGATION’S DEPARTURE, DR LEE PRESENTED A BANNER TO ITS LEADER, MR WONG YUNG-KAN, AT A CEREMONY AT THE DEPARTMENT’S HEADQUARTERS TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY, DR LEE SAID THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT AND THE FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION (FMO) HAD ARRANGED 11 SIMILAR OVERSEAS STUDY TOURS SINCE 1981.
/"COUNTRIES VISITED .......
WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 1993
"COUNTRIES VISITED INCLUDED THE UNITED KINGDOM, NORWAY, DENMARK, THE NETHERLANDS, GERMANY, AUSTRALIA, JAPAN, SOUTH KOREA, SINGAPORE, CHINA AND THE UNITED STATES," HE SAID.
DR LEE WAS PLEASED TO NOTE THAT EACH OF THESE TOURS HAD BEEN SUCCESSFUL AND THAT THE VISITS DID BENEFIT THE TERRITORY’S FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT.
THIS YEAR, A 10-DAY TOUR TO MEXICO HAS BEEN ARRANGED WITH THE HELP OF THE MEXICAN CONSULATE IN HONG KONG.
THE GROUP WILL VISIT WHOLESALE FISH MARKETS, SEAFOOD PROCESSORS, MARTCULTURE OPERATIONS, LIVE FISH HANDLING FACILITIES AND MARKETING SYSTEMS.
IT WILL ALSO VISIT A LARGE-SCALE EXHIBITION - THE FISHING EXPO - MEXICO ’93.
DR LEE HOPED THAT GROUP MEMBERS WOULD MAKE FULL USE OF THE OPPORTUNITY TO GAIN UP-TO-DATE KNOWLEDGE AND SHARE THEIR EXPERIENCE WITH OTHER FISHERMEN TO FURTHER DEVELOP THE LOCAL FISHING INDUSTRY.
_ - Q - -
270 VM’S RETURNED TODAY *****
A GROUP OF 270 VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS TODAY (WEDNESDAY) RETURNED TO VIETNAM UNDER THE UNHCR’S VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME.
COMPRISING 118 MEN, 68 WOMEN, 43 BOYS AND 41 GIRLS, THEY WERE THE 158TH BATCH TO GO BACK UNDER THE PROGRAMME.
THIS GROUP BROUGHT TO 4,392 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS WHO HAVE RETURNED VOLUNTARILY THIS YEAR, AND TO 30,704 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF RETURNEES SINCE THE PROGRAMME STARTED IN MARCH 1989.
- - 0 - -
WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 1993
7
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,810
REVERSAL OF LAF +190
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY _445
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,555
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TW1 112.6 *-0.1* 28.7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.40 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.57 3.85
1 MONTH 2.68 PCT 16 MONTHS 241 1 4.625 100.75 4.06
3 MONTHS 3.16 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.74 4.30
6 MONTHS 3.48 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.72 4.54
12 MONTHS 3.83 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 20,087 MN
CLOSED 28 JULY 1993
- - 0----------
4
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
LOCAL TERMS FOR ELIGIBLE EXPATRIATE CIVIL SERVANTS ............. 1
GOVT STUDYING COURT JUDGEMENT ON VR CASE ....................... 2
HIV-INFECTED CASES HIT RECORD .................................. 2
RE-ORGANISATION OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT .............. 3
MOBILE NETWORKS' DIRECT INTERCONNECTION WITH INT'L GATEWAY AND FAX SERVICES CHARGES ........................................ 4
MEASURE TO REDUCE FLOOD RISK IN KAM TIN ........................ 5
TENDERS INVITED FOR TWO PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS .................. 6
CONSULTATION ON CHARGING FOR CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT ENDS SOON ............................................................ 6
BANK LICENCE REVOKED ........................................... 7
PNEUMOCONIOTICS REMINDED TO APPLY FOR ADDITIONAL EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS ........................................................ 7
REPAIR WORKS FOR YUEN LONG SEWERS ............................. 8
CONSTRUCTION OF CARGO HANDLING AREA IN RAMBLER CHANNEL TYPHOON SHELTER ................................................. 9
ROADWORKS PROPOSED FOR SHA TIN AND CHEUNG CHAU ................. 9
GURKHA ENGINEERS TO HELP IN NEPAL DISASTER RELIEF ............. 11
ACP MINI-EXHIBITION IN KWAI FONG .............................. 11
ROAD CLOSURE FOR PUBLIC HOUSING ............................... 12
CURTAIN FALLS FOR YOUTH MUSIC CAMP ............................ 12
ISRAEL POSTAL SERVICES RESUME ................................. 13
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES SOUGHT ..................... 13
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
14
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
1
LOCAL TERMS FOR ELIGIBLE EXPATRIATE CIVIL SERVANTS
THE GOVERNMENT HAS DECIDED THAT OVERSEAS AGREEMENT (CONTRACT) CIVIL SERVANTS WHO ARE HONG KONG PERMANENT RESIDENTS SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO APPLY FOR TRANSFER TO LOCAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS, SUBJECT TO CERTAIN CONDITIONS.
UNDER THE EXISTING CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS, THE STATUS OF A CANDIDATE FOR A CIVIL SERVICE VACANCY, THAT IS, WHETHER HE OR SHE IS TO BE APPOINTED ON "OVERSEAS” OR "LOCAL” TERMS, IS ESTABLISHED BEFORE HE OR SHE IS OFFERED AN APPOINTMENT.
"THE PRACTICE HAS BEEN NOT TO ALLOW ANY CHANGE OF TERMS AFTER THE INITIAL APPOINTMENT," A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
"BUT CIRCUMSTANCES CAN CHANGE SUBSTANTIALLY OVER THE YEARS, FROM SOMEONE BEING A TOTAL NEWCOMER TO HONG KONG TO SOMEONE WHO HAS LIVED AND WORKED HERE FOR MANY YEARS, REGARDS HONG KONG AS HIS OR HER HOME AND IS COMMITTED TO STAYING HERE AND SERVING THE COMMUNITY.
"IT IS ONLY REASONABLE TO ALLOW SUCH A PERSON TO APPLY FOR A CHANGE TO LOCAL TERMS, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS."
ONE SUCH CONDITION IS THAT THE OFFICER HAS TO DEMONSTRATE HIS COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG BY BECOMING A "PERMANENT RESIDENT", AS DEFINED UNDER THE IMMIGRATION ORDINANCE. FOR MOST OVERSEAS OFFICERS THIS WOULD INVOLVE THEIR NATURALISING AS BRITISH DEPENDENT TERRITORIES CITIZENS.
OTHER CONDITIONS INCLUDE THE NORMAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYMENT - SERVICE NEED, SATISFACTORY CONDUCT AND PERFORMANCE, AND PHYSICAL FITNESS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID ALL SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS FOR TRANSFER TO LOCAL TERMS WOULD TRANSFER TO LOCAL AGREEMENT TERMS.
"BUT IN GRADES WHERE SUCH TERMS ARE NOT CURRENTLY ON OFFER, OUR TENTATIVE THINKING IS THAT FURTHER EMPLOYMENT BEYOND THE FIRST LOCAL CONTRACT SHOULD BE ON THE PERMANENT AND PENSIONABLE ESTABLISHMENT," HE SAID.
"THE OFFER OF SUCH FURTHER EMPLOYMENT MIGHT ALSO BE CONDITIONAL UPON THE OFFICER HAVING ATTAINED A CERTAIN LEVEL OF PROFICIENCY IN THE CHINESE LANGUAGE.
"HOWEVER THESE ARE LONGER-TERM MATTERS WHICH REQUIRE FURTHER CONSULTATION AND DISCUSSION WITH STAFF, AND ALSO POSSIBLY WITH THE CHINES SIDE OF THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
OVERSEAS OFFICERS WHO ('HOOSE NOT TO TRANSFER TO LOCAL TERMS WILL REMAIN ON OVERSEAS TERMS AND CONTINUE TO BE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE REPLACEMENT BY LOCAL OFFICERS UNDER THE LOCALISATION POLICY.
THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT THE GOVERNMENT REMAINED FIRMLY COMMITTED TO THE LOCALISATION POLICY, ADDING THAT THE TWO MAJOR TENETS OF THE POLICY - GIVING PREFERENCE TO LOCAL CANDIDATES ON RECRUITMENT AND REPLACING OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS BY SUITABLE LOCAL OFFICERS -REMAINED UNCHANGED.
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
2
HE BELIEVED THAT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE NUMBER OF OFFICERS WHO WOULD STAY IN SERVICE AS A RESULT OF THIS NEW DEVELOPMENT, AND THE NUMBER WHO WOULD HAVE STAYED UNDER THE OLD POLICY WAS NOT LIKELY TO BE VERY GREAT.
”WE DO NOT EXPECT TO BE INUNDATED WITH APPLICATIONS AND IN ANY CASE MOST OF THE OVERSEAS OFFICERS TRANSFERRING WOULD PROBABLY HAVE HAD THEIR CONTRACTS RENEWED ANYWAY.
’’OVERALL, THE GOVERNMENT IS CONVINCED THAT THIS NEW DEVELOPMENT IS IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST AS MANY OF THE LONG-SERVING OVERSEAS CONTRACT OFFICERS HAVE CONSIDERABLE KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE.
”IF THEY ARE PREPARED TO COMMIT THEMSELVES BY BECOMING PERMANENT RESIDENTS, HONG KONG MUST STAND TO BENEFIT.”
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO EMPHASISED THAT THE CHANGES WOULD HAVE NO EFFECT ON THE FILLING OF PRINCIPAL OFFICIAL POSTS IN THE FUTURE SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION GOVERNMENT.
’’THE PROVISIONS OF THE JOINT DECLARATION AND THE BASIC LAW ON THIS SUBJECT ARE CLEAR AND WELL KNOWN," THE SPOKESMAN STATED.
------0-------
GOVT STUDYING COURT JUDGEMENT ON VR CASE *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS CURRENTLY STUDYING THE HIGH COURT JUDGEMENT UNDER WHICH SEVEN VIETNAMESE REFUGEES WERE AWARDED DAMAGES FOR UNLAWFUL DETENTION.
"THE ADMINISTRATION WILL BE STUDYING THIS JUDGEMENT AND UNTIL IT HAS DONE SO IT WOULD BE PREMATURE TO COMMENT ON IT,” A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY.
FOLLOWING AN EARLIER HABEAS CORPUS JUDGEMENT IN FAVOUR OF THIS GROUP OF VIETNAMESE, THE GOVERNMENT HAD CONCEDED IN THIS CASE THAT THERE WAS AN UNLAWFUL DETENTION AND THUS EXPECTED THE COURT TO MAKE AN AWARD OF DAMAGES TO THE PLAINTIFFS.
------0-------
HIV-INFECTED CASES HIT RECORD
******
A RECORD NUMBER OF 12 PEOPLE - 11 MEN AND ONE WOMAN - WERE FOUND TO BE POSITIVE FOR THE HIV ANTIBODY TEST LAST MONTH (JUNE), THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THIS BRINGS TO 381 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF HIV-INFECTED PERSONS IN HONG KONG.
DURING THE MONTH THREE AIDS CASES WERE REPORTED.
/THE JUNE ........
3
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
THE JUNE FIGURES ADD UP TO 44 AND 13 RESPECTIVELY THE NUMBER OF CONFIRMED HIV AND AIDS CASES RECORDED FOR THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR, THE HIGHEST HALF-YEARLY FIGURES ON RECORD.
RELEASING THE STATISTICS, THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH’S CONSULTANT (SPECIAL PREVENTIVE PROGRAMME), DR S S LEE, ATTRIBUTED THE RECORD TO THE INCREASING SPREAD VIA THE HETEROSEXUAL ROUTE, A GENERAL TREND IN HONG KONG AND WORLDWIDE.
’’EIGHT OF THE 12 NEWLY DIAGNOSED HIV-INFECTED CASES CONTRACTED THE DISEASE THROUGH HETEROSEXUAL CONTACT,” HE ADDED.
UP TO THE END OF JUNE, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF CONFIRMED AIDS CASES IS 86 WITH 55 DEATHS. THE 31 OTHERS ARE EITHER UNDER COUNSELLING AND TREATMENT OR HAVE LEFT THE TERRITORY.
"OF THE 381 PERSONS INFECTED, 275 GOT THE INFECTION SEXUALLY, EIGHT WERE INTRAVENOUS DRUG-USERS, AND 65 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 33, THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE WAS INADEQUATE FOR CLASSIFICATION," DR LEE SAID.
UNDER THE HIV SURVEILLANCE PROGRAMME WHICH STARTED IN 1985, A TOTAL OF 275,241 BLOOD SPECIMENS HAVE BEEN TESTED FOR THE HIV ANTIBODY.
THE HONG KONG RED CROSS BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE HAS ALSO SCREENED ALL BLOOD DONORS FOR HIV INFECTION.
UP TO LAST MONTH, 1,264,961 UNITS OF BLOOD HAVE BEEN TESTED AND 27 DONORS WERE FOUND POSITIVE.
------u-------
RE-ORGANISATION OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT
*****
THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT (BLD) WILL BE SPLIT INTO TWO SEPARATE DEPARTMENTS, NAMELY, THE BUILDINGS DEPARTMENT AND THE LANDS DEPARTMENT, WITH EFFECT FROM AUGUST 1 TO ACHIEVE GREATER EFFICIENCY IN THEIR OPERATIONS.
THE RE-ORGANISATION WAS APPROVED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE ON JULY 16.
THE BUILDINGS DEPARTMENT, TO BE HEADED BY THE DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS, WILL TAKE OVER THE EXISTING FUNCTIONS OF THE BUILDING ORDINANCE OFFICE (BOO) OF THE BLD AND WILL PLACE GREATER EMPHASIS IN TACKLING THE PROBLEMS OF SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE OF PRIVATE BUILDINGS.
THE LANDS DEPARTMENT WILL BE HEADED BY THE DIRECTOR OF LANDS AND WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR LAND ADMINISTRATION, LAND SURVEY AND MAPPING, AND GOVERNMENT CONVEYANCING FUNCTIONS CURRENTLY HANDLED BY THE LANDS ADMINISTRATION OFFICE, THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE AND THE LEGAL ADVISORY AND CONVEYANCING OFFICE OF THE BLD RESPECTIVELY.
/THE DIRECTORS
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
4
THE DIRECTORS OF THE TWO NEW DEPARTMENTS WILL BE ANSWERABLE TO THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS.
THE POST OF DIRECTOR OF LANDS WILL BE FILLED BY MR ROBERT POPE WHO IS CURRENTLY ACTING AS DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS, WHILE THE POST OF DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS WILL BE TEMPORARILY COVERED BY THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY EASON.
BOTH APPOINTMENTS ARE BEING MADE FOR ADMINISTRATIVE CONVENIENCE PENDING THE COMPLETION OF FORMAL PROCEDURES TO FILL THE POSTS BY PROMOTION ON A PERMANENT BASIS.
WHEN THE RE-ORGANISATION OF BLD, THE FOUR MAIN POLICY AREAS OF THE PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS BRANCH, NAMELY TOWN PLANNING, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, LAND ADMINISTRATION AND PRIVATE BUILDING CONTROL, WILL BE HANDLED AT OPERATIONAL LEVEL BY FOUR SEPARATE DEPARTMENTS, ALL WITH DIRECT ACCESS TO THE BRANCH.
THE RE-ORGANISATION WILL ENABLE BOO TO OPERATE AS A SEPARATE AND INDEPENDENT DEPARTMENT SO THAT IT CAN RESPOND MORE EFFECTIVELY TO NEW DEMANDS IN PRIVATE BUILDING CONTROL, PARTICULARLY IN THE AREAS OF SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE.
THE NEW BUILDINGS DEPARTMENT WILL HAVE A MORE DISTINCT IDENTITY AND BE MORE ACCOUNTABLE TO THE PUBLIC. IT WILL ALSO PROVIDE A GREATER INCENTIVE TO STAFF TO ENHANCE PERFORMANCE.
THE SPLIT OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT INTO TWO WILL NOT INCUR ADDITIONAL COSTS.
- - 0 - -
MOBILE NETWORKS' DIRECT INTERCONNECTION WITH INT’L GATEWAY AND FAX SERVICES CHARGES *****
CELLULAR MOBILE TELEPHONE NETWORKS WILL BE ABLE TO INTERCONNECT DIRECTLY WITH THE INTERNATIONAL GATEWAY OF HONG KONG TELECOM INTERNATIONAL, INSTEAD OF VIA THE HONG KONG TELEPHONE COMPANY’S NETWORK, FROM AUGUST 1.
UNDER THIS NEW ARRANGEMENT OF DIRECT INTERCONNECTION, MOBILE PHONE OPERATORS WILL RECEIVE A SHARE OF INTERNATIONAL CALL REVENUE.
"IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE OPERATORS WILL BE ABLE TO PASS ON PART OF THESE BENEFITS TO THEIR INTERNATIONAL CALL CUSTOMERS BY WAY OF, FOR EXAMPLE, PRICE DISCOUNTS," THE ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS, MR A S K WONG, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
IN ADDITION TO THE REDUCTION OF INTERNATIONAL DIRECT DIALLING CHARGES ANNOUNCED RECENTLY, MR WONG SAID THIS NEW ARRANGEMENT FOR MOBILE PHONE NETWORKS WOULD REPRESENT ANOTHER MAJOR STEP FORWARD IN ENHANCING THE INTEREST OF INTERNATIONAL CALL CUSTOMERS.
/MR WONG
5
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
MR WONG ALSO SAID THE NEW CHARGES FOR FAX AND OTHER NON-TELEPHONIC SERVICES OF HONG KONG TELEPHONE COMPANY GAZETTED TODAY CLARIFIED THAT CUSTOMERS WERE FREE TO CONNECT THEIR FAX MACHINES WITH THE RESIDENTIAL OR BUSINESS TELEPHONE LINES WITHOUT ANY ADDITIONAL CHARGES OVER THE BASIC TELEPHONE LINE RENTAL.
ON TOP OF THIS FREE BASIC FAX SERVICES, CUSTOMERS CAN HAVE THE OPTION TO OBTAIN A RANGE OF PREMIUM SERVICES SUCH AS MAINTENANCE SUPPORT, FAX DIRECTORY AND CALL FORWARDING, AT ADDITIONAL CHARGES.
"THERE HAS BEEN SOME CONFUSION IN THE PAST OVER THE PAYMENT OF ADDITIONAL CHARGES FOR FAX SERVICE. IT IS HOPED THAT THE ARRANGEMENT GAZETTED TODAY WILL PROVIDE CLEARER INFORMATION FOR THE CUSTOMERS TO CHOOSE AND PAY FOR THEIR FAX SERVICES," SAID MR WONG.
--------0-----------
MEASURE TO REDUCE FLOOD RISK IN KAM TIN * » » » »
THE GOVERNMENT WILL CONSTRUCT A CONCRETE NULLAH IN THE FORESHORE AND SEABED IN KAM TIN RIVER TO ALLEVIATE THE RISK OF FLOODING IN KAM TIN AREA.
THE WORKS WILL START IN LATE 1994, COMPLETING BY LATE 1997.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREA AFFECTED, ABOUT 3.86 HECTARES, IS
PUBLISHED IN A NOTICE 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
PROJECT MAY DELIVER TO THE DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS A WRITTEN CLAIM FOR COMPENSATION ON OR BEFORE JULY 30, 1994.
THE NOTICE, TOGETHER WITH THE RELATED PLAN, CAN BE SEEN AT THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD AND AT THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, YUEN LONG DISTRICT BRANCH OFFICES BUILDING, 269 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, YUEN LONG.
THE PLAN CAN BE PURCHASED FROM THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE.
THE GOVERNMENT ALSO PLANS TO BUILD A TIDE GAUGE HOUSE AT TUNG WAN ON LANTAU ISLAND.
THE TIDE GAUGE HOUSE WILL BE CONSTRUCTED ON A PLATFORM ADJACENT TO THE EXISTING CATWALK OF THE SHEK PIK PIER WITHIN AN AREA OF ABOUT 17 SQUARE METRES OF FORESHORE AND SEABED.
THE CONSTRUCTION WORKS FOR THE PLATFORM AND THE TIDE GAUGE HOUSE ARE EXPECTED TO BEGIN LATE THIS YEAR FOR COMPLETION IN MID-1994.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREA AFFECTED IS DESCRIBED IN A NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY.
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 SEPTEMBER 30 THIS YEAR.
/THE NOTICE .......
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
6
THE NOTICE, TOGETHER WITH THE RELATED PLAN, HAS BEEN POSTED ON NOTICE BOARDS NEAR THE SITE.
THE PLAN CAN ALSO BE SEEN AT THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE AND AT THE ISLAND DISTRICT OFFICE, 20TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL.
THE PLAN CAN BE BOUGHT FROM THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE.
-----0-------
TENDERS INVITED FOR TWO PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS
*****
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR WORKS TO IMPROVE THE SECURITY FACILITIES AT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
SOME FENCE AND GATES IN THE AIRPORT AREA WILL BE REPLACED.
MEANWHILE, TENDERS ARE ALSO BEING CAI,LED FOR IMPROVEMENT WORKS TO THE PLAYGROUND AT SHA TSUI ROAD, TSUEN WAN.
WORKS INCLUDE DEMOLISHING THE SERVICES BUILDING, REPLACING THE PERIMETER FENCE, THREE TENNIS COURTS, THE LIGHTING FACILITIES OF THE SOCCER PITCHES AND TENNIS COURTS AS WELL AS CONSTRUCTING A CONCRETE SPECTATOR STAND FOR 1,000 PERSONS.
THE PROJECTS ARE EXPECTED TO START IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER RESPECTIVELY FOR COMPLETION IN 14 AND 11 MONTHS.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 34TH FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG.
TENDER OFFERS WILL CLOSE AT NOON ON AUGUST 20.
------0--------
CONSULTATION ON CHARGING FOR CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT ENDS SOON *****
CHEMICAL WASTE PRODUCERS AND OTHER INTERESTED padtiuc ad_
CH= E? ”,RECT
“'phaS^^o pSp1^aLnLd £
ENCOURAGE WASTE MINIMISATION AND RECYCLING ACTIVITIES.
WHICH
WILL
BE
IT WILL ALS° ENABLE THE GOVERNMENT TO RECOVER A REASONARIF TREA™en?FFAC?L!T?°ST °F PR°VID1NG AND OPERATING THE CHEMICAL WASTE
MAAOP TRADEOA™BN^o;S?RP?!rSp"AN?.iADr“;?P'NCS ™
/MAJOR AREAS .......
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
1
MAJOR AREAS OF CONCERN INCLUDE THE LEVEL OF CHARGES AND THE PERCEIVED BURDEN ON INDUSTRY.
THE SPOKESMAN CLARIFIED THAT ALTHOUGH THE INITIAL LEVEL OF CHARGES WILL RANGE FROM ABOUT $500 - $2,500 PER TONNE, DEPENDING ON THE KIND OF TREATMENT REQUIRED, MOST TYPES OF WASTE WILL ATTRACT THE LOWER LEVEL OF CHARGES AND, FOR A TYPICAL WASTE PRODUCER, THE IMPACT ON PRODUCTION COSTS WOULD AT MOST BE AN INCREASE OF ONLY ABOUT 1 PER CENT.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND COMMENTS COULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS BRANCH, ENVIRONMENT DIVISION, 20TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING.
------0--------
BANK LICENCE REVOKED * * » ♦
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT THE BANKING LICENCE OF THE FIRST INTERSTATE BANK OF CALIFORNIA (FICAL) HAD BEEN REVOKED AT THE REQUEST OF THE BANK.
FICAL SOLD ITS HONG KONG BANKING OPERATIONS TO THE STANDARD CHARTERED BANK IN MAY 1992. ON COMPLETION OF THE TRANSFER OF BUSINESS, FICAL HAS CEASED TO CARRY ON BANKING BUSINESS IN HONG KONG SINCE JANUARY THIS YEAR.
AFTER THE REVOCATION, THERE ARE 168 LICENSED BANKS IN HONG KONG, OF WHICH 136 ARE INCORPORATED OUTSIDE HONG KONG.
------0-------
PNEUMOCONIOTICS REMINDED TO APPLY FOR ADDITIONAL EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS t t ♦ * »
SUFFERERS OF PNEUMOCONIOSIS DIAGNOSED BEFORE REMINDED TO APPLY FOR ADDITIONAL EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THE PERIODICAL PAYMENTS STARTING YEAR.
JANUARY 1981 ARE
BEFORE OCTOBER 9
FROM JULY 9 THIS
"FOLLOWING THE APPROVAL BY THE LEGCO FINANCE COMMITTEE OF A SUM OF $175 MILLION FOR THE ADDITIONAL EX-GRATIA PAYMENT, AN ELIGIBLE PRE-1981 PNEUMOCONIOTIC WILL BE ABLE TO RECEIVE $3,000 A MONTH TO BE PAID QUARTERLY UNTIL DEATH," LABOUR OFFICER (EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION), MR LAI KA-TONG, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS ARE ADVISED TO APPLY AT THEIR EARLIEST POSSIBLE CONVENIENCE BECAUSE THEY WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE THE EX-GRATIA PAYMENT STARTING ON JULY 9 IF HE MAKES AN APPLICATION WITHIN THREE MONTHS FROM THAT DATE.
AS REGARDS APPLICATIONS MADE AFTER OCTOBER 9, THE ENTITLEMENT FOR THE EX-GRATIA PAYMENT WILL START FROM THE MONTH FOLLOWING THE SUBMISSION OF THE APPLICATION.
/STAFF OF .......
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
8
STAFF OF THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS COMPENSATION OFFICE HAS ALREADY HELPED ABOUT 100 PNEUMOCONIOTTCS IN MAKING APPLICATIONS, MR LAI SAID.
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS ARE ADVISED TO CALL ON TEL 852 3091 FOR AN APPOINTMENT FOR APPLICATION IN ORDER TO SAVE TIME.
MR LAI ALSO POINTED OUT THAT UNDER THE EX-GRATIA PAYMENT SCHEME, IF A PRE-1981 PNEUMOCONIOTIC DIES AS A RESULT OF THE DISEASE, A SUM NOT EXCEEDING $10,000 WILL BE PAYABLE FOR HIS FUNERAL EXPENSES.
HE SAID BOTH THE AMOUNT OF EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS AND THE FUNERAL EXPENSES WILL BE INFLATION-ADJUSTED ANNUALLY.
ON THE OTHER HAND, MR LAI SAID APPLICATIONS ARE BEING INVITED FOR SUFFERERS OF PNEUMOCONIOSIS DIAGNOSED AFTER 1981 TO CLAIM FURTHER COMPENSATION UNDER THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE 1993, FOR ANY ADDITIONAL INCAPACITY HE MAY HAVE SUFFERED.
APPLICATIONS CAN BE MADE TO THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS COMPENSATION FUND BOARD.
ELIGIBLE PNEUMOCONIOTICS CAN MAKE PRIOR APPOINTMENT ON TEL 541 0032.
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REPAIR WORKS FOR YUEN LONG SEWERS
* * ♦ * *
THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR WORKS TO IMPROVE THE SEWERAGE SYSTEM IN YUEN LONG.
A ONE-KILOMETRE-LONG SEWER WILL BE RECONSTRUCTED AND A SIX-KILOMETRE-LONG SEWER WILL BE REPAIRED.
THE PROJECT IS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN IN NOVEMBER FOR COMPLETION IN 18 MONTHS.
BASED ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE YUEN LONG AND KAM TIN SEWERAGE MASTER PLAN STUDY, THE WORKS AIM AT IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY OF THE EXISTING SEWERAGE SYSTEM IN COLLECTING AND CONVEYING FOUL WATER FROM YUEN LONG TOWN, INCLUDING YUEN LONG INDUSTRIAL ESTATE AND TUNG TAU INDUSTRIAL AREA, TO THE YUEN LONG SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT.
TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE NEW WORKS DIVISION, DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 44TH FLOOR, REVENUE TOWER, 5 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI.
THE CLOSING DATE FOR TENDERS IS NOON ON AUGUST 20.
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/9.........
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
9
CONSTRUCTION OF CARGO HANDLING AREA IN RAMBLER CHANNEL TYPHOON SHELTER » » » » »
THE GOVERNMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CARGO HANDLING AREA IN RAMBLER CHANNEL TYPHOON SHELTER, STAGE III.
THE WORKS MAINLY COMPRISE THE PAVING OF 1.185 HECTARES OF THE STAGE III CARGO HANDLING AREA IN RAMBLER CHANNEL TYPHOON SHELTER.
THE PROJECT WILL PROVIDE SOME 200 METRES OF SEA FRONTAGE WHICH WILL HELP TO ALLEVIATE THE CURRENT SHORTFALL OF PUBLIC CARGO HANDLING AREAS IN THE TERRITORY.
CONSTRUCTION IS SCHEDULED TO START IN OCTOBER THIS YEAR FOR COMPLETION IN 10 MONTHS.
A NOTICE ON THE PROPOSED PROJECT IS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
TENDERS MUST BE CLEARLY MARKED ACCORDINGLY ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE ENVELOPE (BUT SHOULD NOT BEAR ANY INDICATION WHICH MAY RELATE THE TENDER TO THE TENDERER), ADDRESSED TO THE CHAIRMAN, PUBLIC WORKS TENDER BOARD, AND PLACED IN THE PUBLIC WORKS TENDER BOX IN THE LIFT LOBBY ON 34TH FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG BEFORE NOON ON FRIDAY, (AUGUST 20).
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE REGIONAL HIGHWAY ENGINEER/NEW TERRITORIES REGION, HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT, THIRD FLOOR, HOMANTIN GOVERNMENT OFFICES,, 88 CHUNG HAU STREET, HO MAN TIN, KOWLOON. FOR ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL 762 3520.
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ROADWORKS PROPOSED FOR SHA TIN AND CHEUNG CHAU
*****
THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT IS PLANNING TO CONSTRUCT ROADWORKS IN NGAU PEI SHA, CHAP WAI KON AND TO SHEK VILLAGES, SHA TIN, TO PROVIDE EMERGENCY VEHICULAR AND PEDESTRIAN ACCESS FOR THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT IN THE AREAS.
THE PROPOSED ROADWORKS FORM PART OF THE CONTINUING PROGRAMME FOR THE VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT AND EXTENSION SCHEME IN THE SHA TIN NEW TOWN.
THE WORKS INVOLVE THE CONSTRUCTION OF FOOTPATHS, EMERGENCY VEHICULAR ACCESS ROADS AND PARKING AREAS IN THE VILLAGES’ EXTENSION AREAS.
THE PROJECT ALSO INCLUDES EXTENDING AND WIDENING KWONG SIN STREET, CONSTRUCTING CARRIAGEWAYS, STAIRS AMENITY AREA AND ANCILLARY WORKS.
A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT PERMANENT ALTERNATIVE ACCESS WOULD BE PROVIDED TO CATER FOR THE EXISTING ACCESS THAT HAS TO BE CLOSED IF NECESSARY.
/"DURING THE .......
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
- 10 -
’’DURING THE CONSTRUCTION PERIOD, NECESSARY ACCESS WILL BE MAINTAINED SO THAT ANY INCONVENIENCE TO THE PUBLIC WILL BE MINIMISED,” HE ADDED.
THE PLAN AND SCHEME SHOWING THE PROPOSED WORKS CAN BE SEEN DURING OFFICE HOURS AT:
* THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, CENTRAL ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, WEST WING, MAIN ENTRANCE LOBBY, HONG KONG;
* SHA TIN DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, 2 TUNG LO WAN HILL ROAD, SHA TIN, NEW TERRITORIES; AND
» SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE, SIXTH FLOOR, KCR HOUSE, SHA TIN RAILWAY STATION, NEW TERRITORIES.
MEANWHILE, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE DEPARTMENT WAS ALSO PLANNING THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 750-METRE-LONG ROAD TOGETHER WITH ASSOCIATED DRAINAGE IN THE CENTRAL PART OF CHEUNG CHAU.
’’THE NEW ROAD WILL PROVIDE AN UPGRADED ROAD NETWORK TO FACILITATE THE ACCESS OF EMERGENCY VEHICLES, PARTICULARLY FIRE ENGINES,” HE SAID.
THE PLAN AND SCHEME MAY BE INSPECTED AT:
* THE PUBLIC ENQUIRIES SERVICE CENTRE OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
* THE ISLANDS DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, 19TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
* ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE, 20TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG, AND
♦ THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE’S CHEUNG CHAU SUB-OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, 22 SAN HING STREET, CHEUNG CHAU.
NOTICES FOR THE PROPOSED WORKS IN SHA TIN AND CHEUNG CHAU WERE GAZETTED TODAY.
ANY PERSON WISHING TO OBJECT TO THE PROPOSALS SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG NO LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 28, 1993, DESCRIBING HIS INTEREST AND MANNER IN WHICH HE WILL BE AFFECTED.
- - 0---------
/Il .......
11
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
GURKHA ENGINEERS TO HELP IN NEPAL DISASTER RELIEF
*****
HEADQUARTERS BRITISH FORCES HONG KONG CONFIRMED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT 100 SOLDIERS FROM THE QUEEN’S GURKHA ENGINEERS ARE TO BE DEPLOYED FROM HONG KONG TO NEPAL TO HELP WITH DISASTER RELIEF IN THE FLOOD-STRICKEN COUNTRY.
THE SOLDIERS, APART FROM THEIR BRITISH OFFICERS ARE GURKHAS RECRUITED FROM NEPAL. THEY ARE SPECIALIST ENGINEER TROOPS WHO WILL BE EMPLOYED MAINLY IN BUILDING BRIDGES TO REPLACE THOSE WASHED AWAY BY THE FLOODS.
RESTORING COMMUNICATIONS IS ONE OF THE HIGHEST PRIORITIES SO THAT RELIEF SUPPLIES MAY BE DISTRIBUTED.
AN ADVANCE PARTY OF SOME 29 SOLDIERS LEFT FOR NEPAL LAST (THURSDAY) NIGHT. A FURTHER OF 49 SOLDIERS WILL LEAVE TOMORROW (SATURDAY).
THE SOLDIERS ARE PART OF 68 SQUADRON, QUEEN’S GURKHA ENGINEERS, BASED AT PEROWNE BARRACKS, NEW TERRITORIES.
THE TROOPS ARE BEING DEPLOYED AT THE REQUEST OF BRITAIN’S OVERSEAS DEVELOPMENT AGENCY.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
EQUIPMENT, INCLUDING BRIDGES AND CRANES, IS BEING LOADED TODAY BEFORE BEING MOVED TO KAI TAK AIRPORT FOR THE FLIGHT TO NEPAL THIS WEEKEND.
THERE WILL BE AN OPPORTUNITY TO FILM THE LOADING AT 70 SUPPORT SQUADRON, QUEEN’S GURKHA ENGINEERS, BORNEO LINES, SEK KONG AT 2.30 PM THIS (FRIDAY) AFTERNOON. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WISHING TO ATTEND SHOULD ARRIVE AT THE GUARDROOM, BORNEO LINES, NO LATER THAN 2.15 PM. JSPRS REPRESENTATIVES WILL BE ON HAND TO HELP.
-----U--------
ACP MINI-EXHIBITION IN KWAI FONG
*****
A THREE-DAY EXHIBITION ON THE 10 PROJECTS IN THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME (ACP) BEGAN TODAY (FRIDAY) AT THE EXPO (LEVEL 1) OF THE METRO PLAZA IN KWAI FONG.
ORGANISED BY THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECT CO-ORDINATION OFFICE (NAPCO), THE EXHIBITION IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC DAILY FROM 11 AM TO 7 PM UNTIL THIS SUNDAY (AUGUST 1).
"THE AIM OF THE EXHIBITION IS TO PROMOTE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE ACP PROJECTS, PARTICULARLY THOSE WHICH ARE WELL UNDERWAY, OR WILL BEGIN SOON, IN KWAI TSING DISTRICT," A NAPCO SPOKESMAN SAID.
/"IT IS .......
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
12
"IT IS A SMALL BUT INFORMATIVE EXHIBITION COMPRISING A VIDEO PRESENTATION AND PHOTOGRAPHIC DISPLAYS THROUGH WHICH VISITORS WILL LEARN ABOUT FEATURES AND PROGRESS OF THE ACP PROJECTS IN THE DISTRICT.
"THEY WILL ALSO LEARN ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION MEASURES AND CONTROLS TO ENSURE THAT THE ACP PROJECTS ARE BUILT IN AN ENVIRONMENTALLY ACCEPTABLE MANNER," HE SAID.
LEAFLETS ON THE ACP PROJECTS IN KWAI TSTNG ARE AVAILABLE AT THE EXHIBITION VENUE.
------0-------
ROAD CLOSURE FOR PUBLIC HOUSING
*****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS PROPOSED TO PERMANENTLY CLOSE PART OF PAK
WAN STREET IN SHAM SHUI PO IN JUNE NEXT YEAR TO FACILITATE THE
REDEVELOPMENT OF PAK TIN ESTATE.
THE AREA OCCUPIED BY THIS PART OF THE ROAD WILL BE USED FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF DOMESTIC BLOCKS, OPEN SPACE AND EMERGENCY ACCESS, A
GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
A NOTICE ON THE PROPOSED ROAD CLOSURE WAS GAZETTED TODAY.
THE PLAN AND SCHEME MAY BE INSPECTED DURING OFFICE HOURS AT:
» THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
* KOWLOON WEST DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, YAU MA TEI CAR PARK
BUILDING , 10TH FLOOR, 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON; AND
* SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT OFFICE, SIXTH FLOOR, 290 UN CHAU
STREET, SHAM SHUI PO, KOWLOON.
ANY PERSON WISHING TO OBJECT TO THE PROPOSAL SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG NO LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 28 DESCRIBING HIS INTEREST AND MANNER IN WHICH HE WILL BE AFFECTED.
------0-------
CURTAIN FALLS FOR YOUTH MUSIC CAMP » » ♦ ♦ ♦
A GRAND FINALE CONCERT WILL BE HELD AT THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL AUDITORIUM ON SUNDAY (AUGUST 1) AT 3 PM TO MARK THE CLOSE OF THE 1993 HONG KONG YOUTH MUS IC CAMP.
THE CONCERT, TO BE PRESENTED BY MORE THAN 200 LOCAL AND OVERSEAS MUSICIANS FROM BRITAIN, USA, JAPAN, MALAYSIA AND OTHER COUNTRIES, WILL BE THE CULMINATION OF TWO WEEKS’ HARD WORK BY CAMP INSTRUCTORS AND CAMPERS.
IT PROVIDES THE CAMPERS WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO PERFORM IN PUBLIC AND FOR AUDIENCE TO SEE HOW THEY HAVE BENEFITED FROM THE INTENSIVE MUSIC TRAINING GIVEN BY LOCAL AND OVERSEAS INSTRUCTORS.
/THE TWO .......
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
13
THE TWO-WEEK CAMP IS BEING HELD AT THE SAI KUNG OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTRE.
THE TWO-HOUR CONCERT WILL FEATURE CHINESE AND WESTERN PIECES SUCH AS AVE VERUM CORPUS, BACHIANAS BRASILEIRAS NO. 1, HAVANAISE OP. 83 AND TEA PLANTATIONS ALONG THE LIAN RIVER BY THE MUSIC CAMP’S CHINESE ORCHESTRA, CHOIR AND STRING ORCHESTRA (SENIOR).
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CONCERT TO BE HELD AT THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL AUDITORIUM AT 3 PM ON SUNDAY (AUGUST 1).
MUSIC OFFICE STAFF WILL BE ON HAND TO HELP.
-----0-------
ISRAEL POSTAL SERVICES RESUME
*****
THE ACTING POSTMASTER GENERAL, MRS DORIS HO, ANNOUNCES TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT ALL POSTAL SERVICES TO ISRAEL ARE NOW BACK TO NORMAL.
CUSTOMS OFFICIALS IN ISRAEL HAVE ENDED THEIR INDUSTRIAL ACTION, SHE SAID.
ITEMS FOR ISRAEL THAT WERE SUBJECT TO CUSTOMS PROCEDURES AND TEMPORARILY NOT ACCEPTED WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR POSTING WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT.
-----0-------
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES SOUGHT
*****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE STRUCTURES ERECTED ON A BUILDING AT 2 MARCONI ROAD THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE PUBLIC.
TWO OF THE STRUCTURES ARE APPENDAGES OF A FLOOR OF MARCONI COURT WHILE THE THIRD IS AN ERECTED ON THE ROOF ABOVE THE SAME PREMISES.
THREE UNAUTHORISED IN KOWLOON SO THAT THE OCCUPIERS AND
FLAT ON THE TOP ILLEGAL STRUCTURE
NOTICES OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR TWO CLOSURE ORDERS HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE ON .29 WERE POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY (FRIDAY).
FROM THE
SEPTEMBER
II IS EXPECTED THAT DEMOLITION WILL START AS SOON AS THE CLOSURE ORDERS ARE ISSUED.
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/14........
FRIDAY, JULY 30, 1993
- 14 -
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
$ MILLION
1,935
+ 65
2,000
NIL
NIL
2,000
TWI 112.5 *+0.0* 30.7.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.48 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.54 3.88
1 MONTH 2.72 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.71 4.09
3 MONTHS 3.12 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.69 4.33
6 MONTHS 3.46 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.69 4.57
12 MONTHS 3.83 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 26,496 MN
CLOSED 30 JULY 1993
--------0-----------
Recei?d4 on_________—
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, JULY 31. 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
SALE OF OVERSEAS TRUST RANK ..................................... 1
MONETARY STATISTICS FOR JUNE .................................... 1
$59.6 MTU.TON PATH TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS .................. 7
LUCKY CAR REGISTRATION MARKS SALF RY AUCTION .................... 8
YAU TSTM TO COMMFND GOOD CITIZENS ............................... 9
TSUFN WAN ANTI DRUGS CAMPAIGN REGTNS ON SUNDAY .................. 9
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 10
SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
HALF MAST FOR" I VTF KING ....................................... JI
SATURDAY, JULY 31, 1993
- 1 -
SALE OF’ OVERSEAS TRUST BANK » ♦ ♦ » »
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY IT HAD ENTERED INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH GUOCO GROUP LIMITED (GUOCO) FOR THE SALE BY THE GOVERNMENT TO GUOCO OF THE ENTIRE ISSUED SHARE CAPITAL OF OVERSEAS TRUST BANK, LIMITED (OTB).
THE AGGREGATE CONSIDERATION PAYABLE BY GUOCO UNDER THE SALE IS EQUAL TO THE ADJUSTED CONSOLIDATED NET ASSET VALUE OF THE OTB GROUP (THE ’’NET ASSET VALUE”) PLUS A PREMIUM OF $420,000,000.
THE NET ASSET VALUE WILL BE BASED ON THE AUDITED CONSOLIDATED NET ASSET VALUE OF THE OTB GROUP AS AT JUNE 30, 1993, ADJUSTED BY, INTER ALIA:
(I) ADDING OR SUBTRACTING ANY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE VALUE OF THE PROPERTIES OWNED BY OTB, ITS SUBSIDIARIES AND ASSOCIATE AS AT FIVE BUSINESS DAYS BEFORE THE COMPLETION DATE (AS APPRAISED BY INDEPENDENT PROPERTY VALUERS) AND THE NET BOOK VALUE OF THEIR PROPERTIES;
(II) THE AMOUNT OF OTB1S INNER RESERVES; AND
(III) A NOTIONAL AMOUNT ON ACCOUNT OF TAX LOSSES ESTIMATED TO BE AVAILABLE TO THE OTB GROUP AS AT JUNE 30, 1993. SUBJECT TO THE NET ASSET VALUE HAVING BEEN DETERMINED, THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF THE CONSIDERATION WILL BE KNOWN AT COMPLETION.
THE SALE IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED ON OCTOBER 15, 1993 AND COMPLETION IS CONDITIONAL UPON, INTER ALIA:
(I) GUOCO NOT HAVING SERVED A VALID TERMINATION NOTICE PRIOR TO COMPLETION AS A RESULT OF A MATERIAL BREACH OF WARRANTIES AND UNDERTAKINGS OR A MATERIAL OMISSION OF INFORMATION, AND
(II) ALL NECESSARY REGULATORY AND GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS BEING OBTAINED BY GUOCO.
--------0----------
MONETARY STATISTICS FOR JUNE
*****
HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS WITH AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS DECREASED SLIGHTLY IN JUNE, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS PUBLISHED TODAY (SATURDAY) BY THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY.
CONSISTENT WITH THIS, THE BROADEST HONG KONG DOLLAR MONEY SUPPLY, M3, FELL IN JUNE. ON THE OTHER HAND, HONG KONG DOLLAR LOANS AND ADVANCES INCREASED DURING THE MONTH.
/DEPOSITS .......
SATURDAY, JULY 31, 1993
- 2 -
DEPOSITS
HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS WITH AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS, ADJUSTED TO INCLUDE SWAP DEPOSITS, FELL BY 0.2% IN JUNE FOLLOWING A DECREASE OF 0.6% IN APRIL AND AN INCREASE OF 1.4% IN MAY.
AMONG THESE DEPOSITS, DEMAND DEPOSITS INCREASED BY 7.3% WHILE SAVINGS DEPOSITS AND TIME DEPOSITS DECREASED BY 1.7% AND 0.9% RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, TOTAL HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS GREW BY 14.6%.
FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS WITH AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS DECREASED BY 0.8% IN JUNE, AFTER INCREASES OF 1.8% AND 0.4% IN APRIL AND MAY RESPECTIVELY.
OF THESE DEPOSITS, U.S. DOLLAR DEPOSITS DECLINED BY 3.0% WHILE NON-U.S. DOLLAR FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS INCREASED BY 1.2%. YEAR-ON-YEAR, TOTAL FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS GREW BY 8.5%.
IN JUNE, DEPOSITS IN ALL CURRENCIES WITH BOTH LICENSED BANKS AND DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES DECREASED BY 0.6% EACH WHILE DEPOSITS WITH RESTRICTED LICENCE BANKS INCREASED BY 4.1%.
YEAR-ON-YEAR, DEPOSITS WITH LICENSED BANKS GREW BY 12.7% WHILE DEPOSITS WITH RESTRICTED LICENCE BANKS AND DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES DECLINED BY 27.3% AND 13.7% RESPECTIVELY.
MONEY SUPPLY
HK$M1 INCREASED BY 5.3% IN JUNE WHILE BOTH HK$M2 AND HK$M3 DECREASED BY 0.1% EACH.
THEIR CORRESPONDING GROWTH RATES IN MAY WERE -0.4%, 1.4% AND 1.4% RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE MONETARY AGGREGATES INCREASED BY 18.4%, 16.4% AND 15.1% RESPECTIVELY.
TOTAL Ml INCREASED BY 6.1% WHILE TOTAL M2 AND M3 DECREASED BY 0.5% AND 0.4% RESPECTIVELY IN JUNE.
THEIR CORRESPONDING GROWTH RATES IN MAY WERE 0.2%, 0.8% AND 0.9% RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE MONETARY AGGREGATES INCREASED BY 18.1%, 13.2% AND 11.8% RESPECTIVELY.
LOANS AND ADVANCES
TOTAL OUTSTANDING LOANS AND ADVANCES EXTENDED BY AUTHORIZED INSTITUTIONS INCREASED BY 0.7% IN JUNE, FOLLOWING INCREASES OF 2.6% EACH IN APRIL AND MAY.
AMONG THESE LOANS, HONG KONG DOLLAR LOANS INCREASED BY 1.3% WHILE FOREIGN CURRENCY LOANS INCREASED BY 0.4%. COMPARED WITH A YEAR EARLIER, THESE LOANS INCREASED BY 14.5% AND 17.9% RESPECTIVELY.
/LOANS TO .......
SATURDAY, JULY 31, 1993
- 3 -
LOANS TO FINANCE VISIBLE TRADE OF HONG KONG INCREASED BY 3.7% IN JUNE, AFTER INCREASES OF 3.6% AND 2.3% IN APRIL AND MAY RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, SUCH LOANS GREW BY 13.6%.
OTHER LOANS FOR USE IN HONG KONG INCREASED BY 0.8% IN JUNE, FOLLOWING INCREASES OF 0.8% AND 1.7% IN APRIL AND MAY RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE LOANS INCREASED BY 13.9%.
LOANS FOR USE OUTSIDE HONG KONG INCREASED BY 0.4% IN JUNE, AFTER INCREASES OF 3.6% AND 3.4% IN APRIL AND MAY RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 19.3%.
LOANS TO FINANCE TRADE NOT TOUCHING HONG KONG INCREASED BY 5.1% DURING JUNE, AFTER DECREASES OF 1.2% AND 2.0% IN APRIL AND MAY RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE LOANS DECREASED BY 13.3%.
QUARTERLY ANALYSIS OF LOANS AND ADVANCES FOR USE IN HONG KONG BY SECTOR
DURING THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993, TOTAL LOANS FOR USE IN HONG KONG (EXCLUDING THOSE FOR TRADE FINANCING) INCREASED BY 3.4%.
OF THESE, LOANS FOR USE IN MANUFACTURING INCREASED BY 6.9%, FOLLOWING INCREASES OF 5.9% AND 9.5% IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992 AND FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 24.4%.
LOANS TO BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT SECTOR ROSE BY 8.3% DURING THE SECOND QUARTER, FOLLOWING INCREASES OF 5.0% AND 3.2% DURING THE PREVIOUS TWO QUARTERS. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 19.9%.
LOANS TO WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE INCREASED BY 6.0% DURING THE SECOND QUARTER, COMPARED WITH INCREASES OF 1.5% AND 5.5% DURING THE PRECEDING TWO QUARTERS. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE LOANS INCREASED BY 12.6%.
LOANS TO FINANCIAL CONCERNS (EXCLUDING AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS) DECREASED BY 0.5% THIS QUARTER, FOLLOWING A DECREASE OF 3.8% DURING THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992 AND AN INCREASE OF 9.4% DURING THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE LOANS INCREASED BY 14.4%.
LOANS TO INDIVIDUALS FOR THE PURCHASE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY (OTHER THAN FLATS IN THE HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME) INCREASED BY 6.0% THIS QUARTER, FOLLOWING INCREASES OF 1.1% AND 1.0% IN THE PRECEDING TW< QUARTERS. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 12.1%.
QUARTERLY HONG KONG DOLLAR EXTERNAL CLAIMS AND LIABILITIES TO BANKS OUTSIDE HONG KONG
AS AT END-JUNE, TOTAL HONG KONG DOLLAR EXTERNAL CLAIMS ON AN: LIABILITIES TO BANKS OUTSIDE HONG KONG AMOUNTED TO HKJ67.0 BILLION ANI HK$138.0 BILLION RESPECTIVELY.
/OF THESE.........
SATURDAY, JULY 31, 1993
OF THESE, HONG KONG DOLLAR EXTERNAL CLAIMS ON AND LIABILITIES TO BANKS IN CHINA AMOUNTED TO HK$38.6 BILLION AND HK$87.2 BILLION RESPECTIVELY.
THE NET HONG KONG DOLLAR LIABILITIES TO BANKS IN CHINA ROSE BY 24.7% FROM HKS39.0 BILLION AS AT END-MARCH TO HK$48.6 BILLION AS AT END-JUNE.
NUMBER OF REPORTING INSTITUTIONS
THE NUMBER OF REPORTING LICENSED BANKS AND RESTRICTED LICENCE BANKS REMAINED UNCHANGED AT 165 AND 55 RESPECTIVELY WHILE THAT OF DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES DECREASED BY ONE TO 142.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
TABLE 1 SETS OUT SUMMARY FIGURES FOR JUNE 1993 AND COMPARISONS
WITH EARLIER MONTHS. TABLE 2 PRESENTS FIGURES FROM THE QUARTERLY ANALYSIS OF LOANS AND ADVANCES FOR USE IN HONG KONG BY SECTOR.
/TABLE 1 : .......
SATURDAY, JULY 31, 1993
5
TABLE 1 : MONETARY STATISTICS - JUN 1993
(HKSmn)
Jun 1993 Earlier months (% change to Jun 1993)
May 1993 Mar 1993 Jun 1992
Money Supply
Ml -HKS 156,012 148,124 ( 5.3 ) 142,682 ( 9.3 ) 131,773 ( 18.4 )
Foreign currency 18,629 16,412 ( 13.5 ) 14,940 ( 24.7 ) 16,110 ( 15.6 )
Total 174,641 164,536 ( 6.1 ) 157,621 ( 10.8 ) 147,883 ( 18.1 )
M2 - HKS* 800,744 801,659 ( -0.1 ) 786,607 ( 1.8 ) 687,849 ( 16.4 )
Foreign currency* 836,454 843,097 ( -0.8 ) 822.440 ( 1.7 ) 758.935 ( 10.2 )
Total 1,637,199 1,644,756 ( -0.5 ) 1,609,047 ( 1.7 ) 1,446.784 ( 13.2 )
M3 - HKS* 817,479 817,933 ( -0.1 ) 809.784 ( 1.0 ) 710,209 ( 15.1 )
Foreign currency* 869,001 875,062 ( -0.7 ) 855,276 ( 1.6 ) 798,774 ( 8.8 )
Total 1,686,481 1,692,995 ( -0.4 ) 1,665,060 ( 1.3 ) 1,508.984 ( 11.8 )
Notes and coins in circulation 65,453 64.498 ( 1.5 ) 62,274 ( 5.1 ) 52,500 ( 24.7 )
of which held by public 58,026 56,806 ( 2.1 ) 54,584 ( 6.3 ) 45,729 ( 26.9 )
Total Deposits
Total Demand deposits 116,615 107,730 ( 8.2 ) 103,037 ( 13.2 ) 102,154 ( 14.2 )
Total Savings deposits 385,631 383,188 ( 0.6 ) 363,671 ( 6.0 ) 342,803 ( 12.5 )
Total Time deposits with licensed banks 1,058,291 1,078,859 ( -1.9 ) 1,070,742 ( -1.2 ) 939,854 ( 12.6 )
Total Time deposits with restricted licence banks 28,276 27,169 ( 4.1 ) 35,024 ( -19.3 ) 38,909 ( -27.3 )
Total Time deposits with deposit-taking companies 17,863 17,970 ( -0.6 ) 17,916 ( -0.3 ) 20,702 ( -13.7 )
HKS deposits* 745,951 747,215 ( -0.2 ) 741,205 ( 0.6 ) 650,990 ( 14.6 )
USS deposits* 402,439 415,007 ( -3.0 ) 407,982 ( -1.4 ) 333.728 ( 20.6 )
Other foreign currency deposits* 458.286 452.695 ( 1.2 ) 441,203 ( 3.9 ) 459,703 ( -0.3 )
All deposits 1,606,675 1,614,917 ( -0.5 ) 1,590,390 ( 1.0 ) 1,444,421 ( 11.2 )
Foreign currency swap deposits 60,975 61,199 ( -0.4 ) 61,211 ( -0.4 ) 45,181 ( 35.0 )
Total Loans and advances
To finance H.K.’s visible trade 102,422 98,775 ( 3.7 ) 93,184 ( 9.9 ) 90,153 ( 13.6 )
To finance merchandising trade not touching H.K. 12,612 11.998 ( 5.1 ) 12,390 ( 1.8 ) 14,545 ( -13.3 )
Other loans for use in H.K. 1,000,948 992,523 ( 0.8 ) 967,709 ( 3.4 ) 878,951 ( 13.9 )
Other loans for use outside H.K. 1,619,041 1,612,918 ( 0.4 ) 1,505.041 ( 7.6 ) 1,356,673 ( 19.3 )
Other loans where the place of use is not known 42,678 41,856 ( 2.0 ) 40.732 ( 4.8 ) 37,566 ( 13.6 )
Loans in HKS 894,935 883,197 ( 1.3 ) 862,860 ( 3.7 ) 781,524 ( 14 5 )
Loans in foreign currencies 1,882,765 1,874,874 ( 0.4 ) 1,756,196 ( 7.2 ) 1,596,365 ( 17.9 )
Total loans and advances 2,777,701 2,758,070 ( 0.7 ) 2,619,056 ( 6.1 ) 2,377,889 ( 16.8 )
♦ Adjusted for foreign currency swap deposits, dollar foreign currency swap deposits.
Starting from April 1991, swap deposits can further be broken down into US dollar and non-US
Note : ’Restricted licence banks’ and ’deposit-taking companies' were known as ’licensed deposit-taking companies’ and ’registered deposit-taking companies’ respectively before 1 February 1990.
/TABLE 2 : ........
4
SATURDAY, JULY 31, 1993
- 6 -
TABLE 2 : QUARTERLY ANALYSIS OF LOANS FOR USE IN HONG KONG BY SECTOR - JUNE 1993
Jun 1993 Earlier quarters ( HK$ fnrO
(% change to Jun 1993)
Sectors Mar 1993 Dec 1992 Jun 1992
Manufacturing 74,589 69,783 ( 6.9 ) 63,731 ( 17.0 ) 59,943 ( 24.4 )
Transport and transport equipment 62,586 59,287 ( 5.6 ) 58,076 ( 7.8 ) 54,300 ( 15.3 )
Building, construction, property development and investment 159,024 146,776 ( 8.3 ) 142,185 ( 11.8 ) 132,620 ( 19.9 )
Wholesale and retail trade 98,569 92,965 ( 6.0 ) 88,152 ( 11.8 ) 87,553 ( 12.6 )
Financial concerns * Individuals: 136,344 137,010 ( -0.5 ) 125,191 ( 8.9 ) 119,187 ( 14.4 )
to purchase flats in the Home Ownership Scheme and Private Sector Participation Scheme 26,357 24,714 ( 6.6 ) 21,628 ( 21.9 ) 19,988 ( 31.9 )
to purchase other residential property 217,112 204,734 ( 6.0 ) 202,630 ( 7.1 ) 193,676 ( 12.1 )
other purposes 95,276 92,484 ( 3.0 ) 88,342 ( 7.8 ) 80,284 ( 18.7 )
Others 131,091 139,956 ( -6.3 ) 119,972 ( 9.3 ) 131,400 ( -0.2 )
Total 1,000,948 967,709 ( 3.4 ) 909,907 ( 10.0 ) 878,951 ( 13.9 )
♦ This excludes funds advanced to authorized institutions.
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/7........
SATURDAY, JULY 31, 1993
$59.6 MILLION PAID TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS *****
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT (SWD) PAID OUT MORE THAN $59.6 MILLION FROM THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS ASSISTANCE (TAVA) FUND TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS OR THEIR DEPENDANTS IN 1991/92.
ACCORDING TO THE 1991/92 TAVA FUND ANNUAL REPORT, 5,604 APPLICATIONS FOR ASSISTANCE WERE RECEIVED IN THE PERIOD, REPRESENTING A DROP OF SIX PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH 5,951 APPLICATIONS IN 1990/91.
THE DEPARTMENT HANDLED 39 CASES OF SERIOUS TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS IN THE YEAR IN WHICH HEAVY CASUALTIES WERE INVOLVED.
THE ACCIDENT RESULTING IN THE LARGEST NUMBER OF CASUALTIES OCCURRED ON NOVEMBER 29, 1991 AT TUEN MUN ROAD WHICH INVOLVED A CHAIN COLLISION OF TWO GOODS VEHICLES AND THREE BUSES.
FORTY-EIGHT PEOPLE WERE INJURED AND 12 OF THEM WERE FOUND ELIGIBLE FOR ASSISTANCE. A TOTAL AMOUNT OF $27,517 WAS PAID TO THESE VICTIMS.
THE TAVA SCHEME, OPERATING SINCE MAY 1979, IS ONE OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEMES ADMINISTERED BY SWD.
IT AIMS TO PROVIDE QUICK FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS OR THEIR DEPENDANTS, REGARDLESS OF THE MEANS OF THE FAMILY OR THE ELEMENT OF FAULT IN CAUSING THE ACCIDENT.
TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR ASSISTANCE, AN APPLICATION MUST BE MADE WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF THE ACCIDENT WHICH MUST HAVE BEEN REPORTED TO THE POLICE.
IN MAJOR TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, STAFF FROM THE TAVA SECTION WOULD TAKE THE INITIATIVE TO CONTACT VICTIMS OR THEIR DEPENDANTS DIRECTLY TO HELP THEM APPLY AT AN EARLY DATE.
IN THE CASE OF INJURY NOT CAUSING DEATH, AN APPLICANT MUST OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE FROM A REGISTERED DOCTOR REQUIRING AT LEAST THREE DAYS OF SICK LEAVE.
BENEFICIARIES UNDER THE SCHEME STILL RETAIN THE RIGHT TO MAKE CLAIMS FOR LEGAL DAMAGES OR COMPENSATION FROM OTHER SOURCES IN THE USUAL WAY.
THOSE WHO RECEIVE COMPENSATION IN RESPECT OF THE SAME TRAFFIC ACCIDENT ARE REQUIRED TO REPAY THE AMOUNT OF ASSISTANCE THEY HAVE RECEIVED FROM THE SCHEME.
BUT IN ANY CASE THE AMOUNT TO BE REPAID SHALL NOT EXCEED THE AMOUNT OF COMPENSATION AWARDED.
APPLICATION CAN BE MADE EITHER IN PERSON OR BY POST
APPLICATION FORMS ARE OBTAINABLE AT THE POLICE’S ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION UNITS OF REGIONAL TRAFFIC, DISTRICT OFFICES OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, AND SWD’S TAVA SECTION AT ROOM 942, WU CHUNG HOUSE, 213 QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI.
- - 0 - -
SATURDAY, JULY 31, 1993
- 8 -
LUCKY CAR REGISTRATION MARKS SALE BY AUCTION
*****
FIFTY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WERE PUT UP FOR AUCTION THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING FOR A TOTAL OF $1,624,000 WHICH WILL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY PURPOSES AFTER DEDUCTION OF EXPENSES INCURRED IN THE CONDUCT THEREOF.
THE AUCTION, HELD AT THE LECTURE HALL OF SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, SAW THE REGISTRATION MARK FN888 FETCH THE HIGHEST PRICE OF $200,000.
ANOTHER REGISTRATION MARK CC800 WAS SOLD AT THE SECOND HIGHEST PRICE OF $180,000 WHILE THE LOWEST PRICE WAS $1,000 FOR FF9115.
FOLLOWING ARE THE RESULTS OF TODAY’S AUCTION:
$ $ $ $
FF2628 17,000 FG318 25,000 FF8887 30,000 FG106 6,000
FG861 4,000 FF9888 70,000 FF280 30,000 FF8300 10,000
♦FM909 60,000 *FJ3838 38,000 *CC8000 180,000 *2881 150,000
DT691 WITHDRAWN AC9997 13,000 FF9298 9,000 FG760 11,000
FG866 19,000 FF238 50,000 FG91 1 60,000 BM1957 6,000
FF6838 15,000 FG112 9,000 AU2836 25,000 FF6208 3,000
CH590 2,000 HK3303 120,000 FG9886 11,000 FG776 4,000
♦ FM77 90,000 *FK6 150,000 *FN888 200,000 ♦ FP41 22,000
FF729 9,000 AA1955 60,000 FG819 19,000 FG2311 2', 000
FF106 17,000 FG189 16,000 DC7772 5,000 FF7707 4,000
FF1728 3,000 CA1958 4,000 ♦FN9292 20,000 FF6543 3,000
FG4022 WITHDRAWN CT7730 3,000 FF4877 4,000 ♦FM717 10,000
FG149 3,000 FF9115 1,000
* SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION 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 199TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973, BROUGHT THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF MONEY REALISED SO FAR TO 208,820,905.
THERE WERE NO BIDDER FOR DT691 AND FG4022. THESE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WILL BE ASSIGNED TO THE ORIGINAL APPLICANTS.
/9.........
SATURDAY, JULY 31, 1993
YAU TSIM TO COMMEND GOOD CITIZENS ******
TWENTY-TWO CIVIC-MINDED PEOPLE WILL BE PRESENTED WITH GOOD CITIZEN AWARDS TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT A CEREMONY FOR HELPING TO FIGHT CRIMES IN YAU TSIM DISTRICT LAST YEAR.
THE 1993/94 YAU TSIM DISTRICT ’JOIN FORCES AGAINST CRIME’ CAMPAIGN OPENING CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM AT THE OCEAN TERMINAL MAIN CONCOURSE, TSIM SHA TSUI.
YAU TSIM POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR TSUI YIU-KWONG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR YIP WAH; AND ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MR KELVIN YEUNG WILL BE THE OFFICIATING GUESTS.
THERE WILL BE A SINGING PERFORMANCE AFTER THE CEREMONY. ADMISSION IS FREE.
THE CAMPAIGN IS ORGANISED BY THE YAU TSIM DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD.
ACTIVITIES FOR THIS YEAR’S CAMPAIGN INCLUDE SEMINARS, TALKS, A CARNIVAL AND A SINGING CONTEST.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF 1993/94 YAU TSIM DISTRICT ’JOIN FORCES AGAINST CRIME’ CAMPAIGN CUM GOOD CITIZEN AWARD PRESENTATION WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT OCEAN TERMINAL MAIN CONCOURSE, TSIM SHA TSUI .
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TSUEN WAN ANT I-DRUGS CAMPAIGN BEGINS ON SUNDAY *****
A MONTH-LONG ANTI-DRUG CAMPAIGN WILL BE LAUNCHED IN TSUEN WAN DISTRICT.
TO KICK OFF THE CAMPAIGN, A SOLAR CUP BASKETBALL MATCH WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
MEMBERS FROM THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE (TWDFCC) AND THE JUNIOR POLICE CALL, TOGETHER WITH SOLAR AMBASSADORS AND DISC JOCKEYS FROM THE RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG (RTHK) WILL BE COMPETING IN THE MATCH.
THERE WILL ALSO BE MUSIC AND LION DANCE PERFORMANCES AT THE OPENING CEREMONY PRECEDING THE MATCHES.
'AMONG THE
SATURDAY, JULY 31, 1993
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AMONG THE OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL BE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR THOMAS CHOW; THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR CHAU HOW-CHEN, THE TWDFCC CHAIRMAN, MR CHAN YAN-LEUNG; AND THE ACTING COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, MS ANISSA WONG.
THE CAMPAIGN, FUNDED BY THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS, AIMS TO CONVEY ANTI-DRUGS MESSAGES TO LOCAL RESIDENTS.
ITS PROGRAMMES INCLUDE A DAY CAMP FOR YOUTHS, A ROLLER SKATING FUN DAY, A FAMILY SINGING CONTEST AND A CONCERT.
THE CAMPAIGN IS ORGANISED BY THE TWDFCC WITH THE HELP FROM RTHK, THE TSUEN WAN POLICE STATION AND THE NEW TERRITORIES SOUTH WEST OFFICE OF THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY AND SOLAR CUP BASKETBALL MATCH WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 10.30 AM AT THE PRINCESS ALEXANDRA COMMUNITY CENTRE.
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
* * * * *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,000
REVERSAL OF LAF NIL
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -240
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,760
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.5 »+0.0* 31.7.93
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I
SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 1993
11
HALF MAST FOR LATE KING *****
FLAGS ON ALL GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS WILL BE FLOWN AT HALF-MAST FOR ONE DAY TOMORROW (MONDAY) AS A MARK OF RESPECT FOR THE KING OF THE BELGIANS, WHO PASSED AWAY YESTERDAY (SATURDAY).
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