DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO-.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL APPROVED HIGHER SEVERANCE PAYMENT RATES FOR WORKERS ........................................... 1
SEVEN DAYS ANNUAL LEAVE PROPOSED FOR WORKERS ................ 8
HK AND YAUMATI FERRY CROSS-HARBOUR FARE WILL INCREASE BY 10 CENTS ................................................... 1°
ASSETS OF DRUG TRAFFICKERS HELD BY OTHERS MAY POSSIBLY BE FORFEITED ................................................ H
MEASURES ADOPTED TO IMPROVE PRINCESS MARGARET FLYOVER .... 12
PWD IS PLANNING A SERIES OF TUNNELS AND FLYOVERS FOR FUTURE TRAFFIC ............................................. 13
SHORTER STAY FOR DRUG ADDICTS AT TREATMENT CENTRES ......... 15
TERTIARY EDUCATION TO COST $1,300 M IN 1978-81 ............. 16
CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL CHARGE TIED UP WITH TRAFFIC PROBLEMS 17
NEW NAME FOR PREVENTIVE SERVICE ............................ 18
DISPARATE VACATION LEAVE RATES FOR CIVIL SERVANTS EXPLAINED .................................................. 19
CODE OF DISCIPLINE FOR THE POLICE FORCE TO BE UPDATED .... 20
NO DEARTH OF CORONERS FOR DEATH INQUEST DUTIES ............. 20
THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES IN HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS SUBJECT TO NORMAL FIRE SAFETY CONTROLS ............................. 21
ESSENTIAL SERVICES WELL PROVIDED IN TIME FOR NEW HOUSING ESTATES .................................................... 21
PLAN FOR METERED WATER SUPPLY TO SHEK 0 WILL BE FURTHER STUDIED .................................................... 22
CONTAINER LORRIES WILL BE REQUIRED TO DISPLAY RED LIGHTS . 22
/NEW RATEABLE
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
NEW RATEABLE VALUES TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT WHEN ASSESSING RESUMPTION COMPENSATION ................................... 23
INSURANCE BUSINESS LEGISLATION BEING REVIEWED ............ 23
DIFFERENT KIDNEY MACHINES IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS EQUALLY EFFICIENT ......................................... 24
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT REVIEWING PERMITTED TEACHERS
QUALIFICATION ............................................. 24
ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY TRANSFERRED TO
COMMISSIONER FOR TELEVISION AND FILMS ..................... 25
SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISIONS FOR THIRD QUARTER OF 1976-77 .... 25
NEW EQUIPMENT FOR FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT ................ 26
NINE BILLS PASSED THIRD READING IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ... 26
1
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
CONTROVERSIAL SEVERANCE PAY BILL PASSED * * * *
THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO.2) BILL 1977, WHICH PROVIDES HIGHER RATES OF SEVERANCE PAY TO EMPLOYEES WHO ARE LAID OFF, WAS PASSED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
THE AMOUNT OF SEVERANCE PAY FOR EACH YEAR OF SERVICE WILL BE INCREASED FROM ONE-THIRD TO HALF OF A MONTH’S PAY FOR MONTHLY-RATED EMPLOYEES, AND FROM 10 TO 13 DAYS’ WAGES FOR THOSE WHO ARE TIME OR PIECE-RATED.
THE PERIOD OF CONTINUOUS SERVICE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT FOR CALCULATION WILL ALSO BE INCREASED FROM FIVE TO EIGHT YEARS BEFORE AUGUST 23, 1974.
FIVE UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS SPOKE IN SUPPORT OF THE BILL AND ONE VOTED AGAINST IT.
SPEAKING IN SUPPORT OF THE BILL, DR. THE HON.
S.Y. CHUNG SAID THAT UMELCO HAD RECEIVED A NUMBER OF OPPOSING REPRESENTATIONS FROM EMPLOYERS’ ASSOCIATIONS AND GROUPS INTERESTED IN LABOUR MATTERS DURING THE PAST FEW WEEKS.
THE EMPLOYERS’ ASSOCIATIONS, HE SAID, PARTICULARLY THOSE IN THE TEXTILES, GARMENT, PLASTIC AND RUBBER INDUSTRIES, WERE VOICING VERY STRONG OBJECTION AGAINST THE BILL.
+ONE OF THEIR MAIN CONCERNS IS THE LARGE INCREASE OF CONTINGENT LIABILITY BY OVER 100 PER CENT OVERNIGHT.
+ANOTHER MAJOR CONCERN OF THE EMPLOYERS’ ASSOCIATIONS IS THE FAST CONTINUING INCREASE OF CONTINGENT LIABILITY IN FUTURE YEARS,+ HE ADDED.
THE INCREASED CONTINGENT LIABILITY WOULD RESULT FROM TWO FACTORS, DR. CHUNG EXPLAINED.
♦THE FIRST FACTOR IS OBVIOUSLY THE INCREASING NUMBER OF YEARS OF COMPANY SERVICE AND THE SECOND THE CONTINUAL TREND OF RISING WAGES,+ HE SAID, AND IT COULD NOT BE DENIED THAT SUCH INCREASES OF CONTINGENT LIABILITY YEAR AFTER YEAR WAS NOT INSIGNIFICANT.
+HOWEVER, WE MUST NOT OVERLOOK THE PRACTICAL ASPECTS OF THE MATTER. FIRSTLY, THIS IS ONLY A CONTINGENT LIABILITY. NO SEVERANCE PAYMENT IS REQUIRED UNTIL AN INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKING IS CLOSING DOWN OR REDUCING ITS LABOUR FORCE.
+SECONDLY, DUE TO VERY HIGH MOBILITY OF LABOUR IN HONG KONG, THE AVERAGE LENGTH OF SERVICE OF INDUSTRIAL WORKERS IN A GIVEN INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKING IS, WITH SOME EXCEPTIONS SUCH AS IN TEXTILE SPINNING AND WEAVING, RELATIVELY SHORT.
/+IT IS
2
+IT IS NOT UNCOMMON FOR FACTORIES TO HAVE A LABOUR TURN-OVER OF BETWEEN 5 TO 10 PER CENT PER MONTH, NOR IS IT UNCOMMON TO FIND IN A FACTORY THAT MORE THAN ONE-QUARTER OF ITS WORKERS HAVE LESS THAN TWO YEARS OF COMPANY SERVICE AND MORE THAN ONE-HALF OF ITS WORK FORCE HAVE LESS THAN FIVE YEARS OF COMPANY SERVICE,* HE SAID.
TO SUBSTANTIATE HIS OBSERVATIONS DR. CHUNG QUOTED STATISTICS' WHICH SHOWED THAT THE NUMBER OF PERSONS ENGAGED IN THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY INCREASED FROM 600,000 IN DECEMBER 1974 TO ALMOST 780,000 IN DECEMBER 1976.
+THIS SHOWS THAT AT LEAST 180,000 INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OR 23 PER CENT OF THE PRESENT LABOUR FORCE IN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY ARE NOT QUALIFIED FOR ANY SEVERANCE PAY,* HE SAID, +SUCH A HIGH PERCENTAGE WILL FURTHER BE BOOSTED BY THE EFFECT OF HIGH LABOUR TURN-OVER.
+CONSEQUENTLY, IT IS NOT UNREASONABLE TO ASSUME THAT, ON AVERAGE MORE THAN ONE-QUARTER OF THE WORK FORCE IN A FACTORY HAVE NOT BEEN EMPLOYED UNDER A CONTINUOUS CONTRACT FOR A PERIOD OF 24 MONTHS AND ARE THEREFORE NOT QUALIFIED FOR SEVERANCE PAY.
+FURTHERMORE, IF AN EMPLOYER PRACTISES THE ’PRINCIPLE OF LAST-TO-COME, FIRST-TO-LEAVE’ IN REDUCING HIS LABOUR FORCE IN TIMES OF BUSINESS RECESSION, AN EMPLOYER WILL NOT, AGAIN ON AVERAGE, BE REQUIRED TO PAY ANY SEVERANCE COMPENSATION, AT LEAST BY LAW, UNTIL HIS WORK FORCE IS REDUCED TO LESS THAN 75 PER CENT.*
IN ADDITION, HE SAID, WITH MAXIMUM SEVERANCE PAY LIMITED TO 12 MONTHS WAGES, COMPANY SERVICE BEYOND 24 YEARS BASED ON THE NEW RATES WOULD NOT BE COUNTED FOR CALCULATION, WHICH WAS ANOTHER RELIEF FOR EMPLOYERS.
FROM THE VIEWPOINT OF THE EMPLOYEE, DR. CHUNG SAID, ASSUMING 530 AS THE CURRENT AVERAGE DAILY WAGE, EVEN WITH THE PASSING OF THE BILL, ONLY 11 OF A WORKER’S 24 YEARS SERVICE WOULD BE COUNTED AND HE WOULD GET 54,290 FOR THIS SERVICE.
+1 AM SURE NO HONOURABLE MEMBER IN THIS COUNCIL WILL SAY THAT SUCH AN AMOUNT IS OVER GENEROUS,* HE SAID.
HE NOTED WITH SYMPATHY THE SERIOUS CONCERN OF CERTAIN EXPORT-ORIENTED INDUSTRIES, WHOSE PRODUCTS WERE MARGINALLY COMPETITIVE IN WORLD MARKETS, ABOUT RISING PRODUCTION COSTS AS A RESULT OF
THE BILL.
HE SAID, HOWEVER, THAT UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN HONG KONG AT PRESENT, IT WAS NOT RIGHT TO HOLD UP OR EVEN SLOW DOWN THE SOCIAL PROGRESS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN ORDER TO LET A FEW MARGINAL INDUSTRIES REMAIN MARGINALLY COMPETITIVE.
+THERE ARE OTHER BETTER AND MORE EFFECTIVE WAYS TO HELP THESE MARGINAL INDUSTRIES,* HE SAID. HE NOTED TWO POSSIBLE ALTERNATIVES FOR THEIR EMPLOYERS TO TAKE: ONE WAS TO CHANGE THEIR BUSINESS AND REMAIN IN THE HIGH-COST TERRITORY, THE OTHER WAS TO SHIFT THEIR BUSINESS TO A LOW-COST TERRITORY.
/HE ADDED
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 197?
3
HE ADDED THAT THE PROCESS OF TRANSFERRING MARGINAL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES FROM HIGH-COST TO LW~C°ST COUNTR IES WAS MOST DESIRABLE AND SHOULD EE ENCOURAGED BY ALL NATIONS BECAUSE IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT WAYS OF INCRtASING WORLD TRADE AS WELL AS OF ACCELERATING INDUSTRIALIZATION IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES,
IT WAS SOCIALLY DESIRABLE, DR. CHUNG SAID, THAT SEVERANCE PAY SHOULD CARRY SOME ELEMENT OF RETIREMENT BENEFIT.
HONG KONG IS NOT YET A SOCIETY, HE THERE IS A NATIONAL PENSION SCHEME OR A OR IN WHICH THERE IS UNIVERSAL PRACTICE IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR FOR ALL LEVELS OF
POINTED OUT, +IN WHICH NATIONAL PROVIDENT FUND OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS EMPLOYEES.+
FIVE OTHER UNOFFICIALS, THE HON. PETER WONG, REV. THE HON. PATRICK MCGOVERN, THE HON. HILTON CHEONG-LEEN, THE HON. JAMES WU AND THE HON. T.S. LO ALSO SPOKE ON THE BILL.
THE HON. PETER WONG, WHO WAS CONVENOR OF AN ADHOC GROUP APPOINTED BY THE UNOFFICIALS TO STUDY ITS PROVISIONS TOLD THE COUNCIL THAT THE GROUP MET NO LESS THAN FIVE TIMES AND RECEIVED DELEGATIONS FROM 18 ORGANISATIONS IN ADDITION TO NUMEROUS WRITTEN REPRESENTATIONS.
THE VIEWS OF THE EMPLOYERS’ ORGANISATIONS, HE SAID, WERE BROADLY THAT THE LEGISLATION WAS UNWISE BECAUSE AT THE MOMENT, HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIES WERE CONFRONTED WITH UNCERTAIN WORLD ECONOMIC TRENDS, RISING ECONOMIC PRESSURE FROM IMPORTING COUNTRIES AND STRONG COMPETITION- THAT THE INCREASED CONTINGENT LIABILITY WOULD BE FAR BEYOND THE MEANS OF MANY, PARTICULARLY SMALL TO MEDIUM, INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS, AND THAT IT WAS QUESTIONABLE WHETHER THERE WAS ANY NEED OR JUSTIFICATION TO AMEND THE EXISTING LEGISLATION ONLY THREE YEARS AFTER ITS INTRODUCTION.
THE EMPLOYEES ON THE OTHER HAND, HE SAID, FELT THAT THE PROVISIONS DID NOT GO FAR ENOUGH ALTHOUGH THEY RECOGNISED THE GOOD INTENTION OF THE BILL.
BASICALLY, HE ADDED, THEY WANTED THE RETROSPECTIVE EFFECT OF THE LEGISLATION TO BE FURTHER EXTENDED FROM EIGHT TO TEN YEARS AND THE RATE OF 15 DAYS’ WAGES FOR EACH YEAR’S SERVICE APPLIED TO BOTH MONTHLY AND NON-MONTHLY RATED WORKERS.
REV. THE HON. PATRICK MCGOVERN SAID WHILE HE SUPPORTED THE BILL AS A SMALL SLOW STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION, HE BELIEVED IT LEFT MUCH MORE TO BE DONE.
HE SAID WORKERS WHO PRESENTED THEIR CONSTRUCTIVE OBSERVATIONS TO UMELCO HAD SEVERAL VALID CRITICISMS POINTING OUT WEAKNESSES IN OTHER SECTIONS OF THE SAME PART OF THE ORDINANCE AND ASKED THAT THESE BE CAREFULLY STUDIED AND THE REFORMS SUGGESTED BE QUICKLY INTRODUCED IN THE COUNCIL.
/HE URGED .......
w&wnxuovMX f uuiu i, 1777“
HE URGED THAT HONG KONG SHOULD NOT SLAVISHLY IMITATE THE PRACTICE OF OTHER COUNTRIES IN LEGISLATING FOR DAILY-RATED WORKERS ON THE BASIS OF A 26-DAY MONTH.
+1 AM AWARE THAT THERE IS A QUESTION OF TWO UNPAID REST DAYS INCLUDED IN THE HALF MONTH, BUT I WOULD POINT OUT THAT THE SAME REST DAYS APPLY TO THE MONTHLY RATED ALSO,+ HE SAID.
HE DREW THE ATTENTION OF EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES TO A PROVISO IN THE ORDINANCE WHICH ENABLES WORKERS TO ELECT TO HAVE THEIR WAGES AVERAGED OVER THE PRECEDING 12 MONTHS.
+USE OF THIS PROVISO MAY WELL BE A BETTER METHOD THAN COUNTING DAYS IN THE DYING MONTH OF A FIRM GOING OUT OF BUSINESS,* HE SAID.
THE HON. HILTON CHEONG-LEEN SUPPORTED THE BILL AND NOTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S SOCIAL POLICY TO RAISE THE STANDARD OF LIVING AND THE CONDITIONS OF LABOUR IN A BALANCED AND STEADY MANNER WAS MOST LAUDABLE AND DESERVED THE UNWAVERING SUPPORT OF ALL SECTIONS OF THE COMMUNITY, +PROVIDING OF COURSE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT GIVE TOO MUCH OF AN IMPRESSION THAT IT IS FORCE-PACING THE RATE OF LABOUR LEGISLATION.*
HE WARNED THAT THE SIGNALS WERE UP THAT LABOUR LEGISLATION WOULD FROM NOW ON COME UNDER SHARPER SCRUTINY BY INDUSTRIALISTS, INVESTORS, AND BUSINESSMEN ALIKE, +WITH A VIEW TO ASSESSING THE LONG-TERM CONSEQUENCES EMANATING FROM SUCH LABOUR LEGISLATION.*
+IT WOULD BE USEFUL TO KNOW IF GOVERNMENT WILL BE MORE SYSTEMATICALLY MONITORING THE LEVELS OF WAGE INCREASES AND LABOUR BENEFITS, AND RELATE OR LINK THEM TO THE ANNUAL RISE IN G.D.P. SO AS TO ENSURE PARALLEL INCREASES IN PRODUCTIVITY AND ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS,* HE SAID.
oci ii/Jamhc01'1, JAMES wu SUPPORTED THE BILL +WITH THE GREATEST ntLUCIANUE+.
SECRETARY
eno onn.AEFERRED T0 A SPEECH BY THE THEN ACTING
FOR SOCIAL SERVICES ON JULY 3, 1974 WHEN PROPOSING A RATE ^SEVERANCE PAY 0F 10 DAYS PER YEAR Op SERVICE DATING BACK rIVt IuAKb,
„ur HE QUOTED THE SECRETARY AS SAYING +THE RATE OF ,SEyERANCE PAY SHOULD PROVIDE ADEQUATE RELIEF TO A REDUNDANT r2n.KnvrBUT MUST N0T BE SUCH AS To OVERSTRAIN THE SMALLER EMPLOYER WHO WOULD BE UNABLE TO MEET THEIR RESULTANT LEGAL OBLIGATIONS AND WOULD BE DRIVEN OUT OF BUSINESS. THIS IN TURN WOULD CREATE FURTHER REDUNDANCY AND DEFEAT THE OBJECT OF THIS LEGI SLAT ION.+
MR. WU SAID: +1 DO NOT KNOW WHETHER THE THEN ACTING SE£REJARY 2F S0C,AL SERVICES WOULD NOW SAY THAT THE SMALLER EMPLOYER COULD FACE UP TO THIS ALMOST SEVEN-FOLD INCREASE IN CONTINGENT LIABILITY WITHIN THREE YEARS AND NOT BE DRIVEN OUT OF BUSINESS AND THUS AVOID CREATING FURTHER REDUNDANCY AND DEFEAT THE OBJECT OF THE LEGISLATION. IT WOULD OTHERWISE SHOW THE INCONSISTANCY OF GOVERNMENT THINKING.*
/he NOTED .......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
- 5 -
HE NOTED THAT THE FEDERATION OF HONG KONG INDUSTRIES HAD WRITTEN TO THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR ON JANUARY 26 AND AGAIN ON MARCH 16 WHEN IT EXPRESSED THE STRONG FEELING THAT THE FINANCIAL BURDEN ON THEM, WHEN CALCULATED ON AVERAGE FUTURE EARNINGS OF WORKERS AND TAKING INFLATIONARY ELEMENTS INTO ACCOUNT, +WOULD SERIOUSLY AFFECT THE CONTINUED VIABILITY AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF INDUSTRY BECAUSE OF A SUDDEN INCREASE OF CONTINGENT LIABILITY.+
MR. WU SAID IT WAS WELL-KNOWN THAT GENERALLY WORKERS IN HONG KONG CHOOSE TO HAVE A LARGER TAKE-HOME PAY IN PREFERENCE TO ANY DEFERRED BENEFITS.
+WITH SEVERANCE PAY NOW BECOMING INCREASINGLY A FACTOR, IT IS APPARENT THAT ALLOWANCE WOULD HAVE TO BE MADE FOR THIS FUTURE BENEFIT TO WORKERS AT THE COST OF PAY INCREASES.
+AFTERALL, WITH OUR PRESENT WAGES NOW 80 PER CENT HIGHER THAN TAIWAN AND MORE THAN DOUBLE THAT OF SOUTH KOREA, AND WITH A FAST NARROWING GAP IN OUR TRADITIONALLY STRONG INDUSTRIES BUT WITH A MUCH SMALLER INDUSTRIAL BASE, HOME MARKET AND LABOUR SOURCE, THERE IS A LIMIT TO WHAT WE CAN DO IN MORE SOPHISTICATION AND DIVERSIFICATION WITH WHICH TO RAISE WAGES WITHOUT PRICING OURSELVES OUT OF THE MARKET,+ HE SAID.
+WE ONLY HOPE THAT THOSE IN POWER, AND THOSE SAID TO BE CONCERNED, WOULD JUST LEND THEIR EARS AND STUDY MARKET CONDITIONS AND THE LONG TERM EFFECTS OF PROPOSED LABOUR LEGISLATIONS INSTEAD OF BASING THEIR JUDGEMENT ON PREJUDICE OR OUT-DATED INFORMATION,* HE ADDED.
THE HON. T.S. LO VOTED AGAINST THE BILL +T0 UNDERLINE THE SERIOUSNESS OF THE PRINCIPLE INVOLVED.*
HE SAID IT WAS WRONG IN PRINCIPLE TO SUDDENLY IMPOSE SUCH AN UNEXPECTED BURDEN ON EMPLOYERS WHO HAVE MADE NO PROVISION FOR SUCH SEVERANCE PAY.
+IN PRINCIPLE, THIS IS NO DIFFERENT FROM GOVERNMENT INTRODUCING A NEW FISCAL MEASURE TO INCREASE PROFITS TAX OR SALARIES TAX BY A FEW PER CENT AND BACKDATING IT FOR, SAY, TWELVE YEARS,* HE SAID.
HE CONTINUED: +THE MISCHIEF OF A GOVERNMENT PRONE TO PUT THROUGH LEGISLATION WITH A RETROSPECTIVE ELEMENT IS THAT IT INDUCES A SENSE OF UNCERTAINTY IN THE MINDS OF THOSE WHO WORK AND LIVE. WITHIN ITS JURISDICTION AND THAT IT MAKES A MOCKERY OF PROPER PLANNING.
+ACCORDINGLY, AND IN VIEW OF THE GOVERNMENT’S MAJORITY IN THIS COUNCIL, I CONSIDER IT APPROPRIATE FOR GOVERNMENT TO DISCLOSE THE PRINCIPLES IN ACCORDANCE WITH WHICH IT WILL IN FUTURE INTRODUCE LEGISLATION CONTAINING A RETROSPECTIVE ELEMENT.*
MR. LO SAID HE CONSIDERED THE SEVERANCE PAY LEGISLATION +A CLEAR EXAMPLE OF EMOTIVE LEGISLATION.*
/IT HAS
o
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
- 6 -
IT HAS A TENDENCY, HE SAID, TO DISCOURAGE MOBILITY OF LABOUR, MAKE HONG KONG PRODUCTION LESS FLEXIBLE, ENCOURAGE DISPUTES, AND FOSTER BIG BUSINESS AT THE EXPENSE OF S^ALL BUSINESS.
ALSO, HE SAID, IT WILL CONVERT A FUTURE PORTION OF REAL WAGES INTO A DEFERRED CONTINGENT BENEFIT, AMOUNTING TO AN UNSECURED LOAN TO THE EMPLOYERS, +SO THAT OUR WORKERS, WITHOUT EVER HAVING • HAD THE MATTER PROPERLY EXPLAINED TO THEM, WILL BE DENIED IN FUTURE THE FREEDOM OF CHOOSING WHAT THEY WANT TO DO WITH THAT PART OF THEIR MONEY.+
HE SAID HE WOULD NOT DWELL ON THESE POINTS +PARTLY BECAUSE THEY HAVE BEEN MADE BEFORE WITHOUT ANY EFFECT ON THE GOVERNMENT AND PARTLY BECAUSE OF MY FAITH IN THE RESILIENCE OF HONG KONG PEOPLE AND THEIR ABILITY TO SURVIVE INAPPROPRIATE IMPORTED GOVERNME," LEGISLATION.+
IN REPLY TO THE UNOFFICIALS, THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, THE HON. PETER WILLIAMS SAID THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES HAVE, NOT UNNATURALLY, BEEN CONFLICTING.
THESE VIEWS, TOGETHER WITH INFORMED COMMENTS IN THE PRESS AND OPINIONS RECEIVED, BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC HAD BEEN EXAMINED MOST CONSCIENTIOUSLY, HE SAID.
MR. WILLIAMS SAID THE ARGUMENT ABOUT CONTINGENT LIABILITY WAS SOMEWHAT SPECULATIVE SINCE THERE WAS NO REAL EVIDENCE EITHER TO SUPPORT OR TO DISPROVE IT.
HE WENT ON, +A GOING CONCERN WITH ORDERS IN HAND SHOULD NOT NORMALLY HAVE DIFFICULTY WITH BANK CREDIT. A FIRM SEEKING CREDIT WOULD BE JUDGED BY THE LENDING INSTITUTIONS ON ITS OVERALL CAPABILITY RATHER THAN ITS CONTINGENT LIABILITY IN CASE OF FAILURE.
+WHEN SEVERANCE PAY WAS FIRST INTRODUCED AND DEBATED IN 1974. A NUMBER OF MEMEBERS REFERRED TO EMPLOYERS’ CONCERN THEN ABOUT THE LIMITATIONS OF CREDIT FACILITIES BEING MADE AVAILABLE BY BANKS TO INDUSTRI ALISTS.+
+IN THE EVENT,+ HE SAID, +SINCE THE INTRODUCTION OF SEVERANCE PAY, THERE HAD BEEN NO PROBLEM IN THIS REGARD.*
MR. WILLIAMS PAID TRIBUTE TO THE RELEVANCE OF DR. CHUNG’S CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEBATE WITH HIS MATHEMATICAL AND PRACTICAL ANALYSES OF THE CONSEQUENCES OF THE AMENDING LEGISLATION.
HE THOUGHT THE APPREHENSION EXPRESSED ABOUT SECURITY OF EMPLOYMENT AND REDUCING JOB OPPORTUNITIES NOT REALISTIC, BECAUSE WHILE SEVERANCE PAY OBILGATION MIGHT MAKE INDUSTRIALISTS THINK TWICE BEFORE OVER-EXTENDING THEIR LABOUR FORCE, OVERALL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES WOULD NOT BE AFFECTED SO LONG AS THE OVERALL DEMAND WAS THERE.
/♦IN FACT.+
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
+ IN FACT,* SAID MR. WILLIAMS, + THE IMPROVEMENTS IN SEVERANCE PAY SHOULD BRING ABOUT A MORE COMPACT AND EFFICIENT WORK FORCE INSIDE EACH ESTABLISHMENT.*
MR. WILLIAMS SAID HE SUPPORTED DR. CHUNG ’S REFERENCE TO THE SECTION OF THE ORDINANCE DEALING WITH AN EMPLOYEE’S ENTITLEMENT TO SEVERANCE PAY WHEN HE IS ALSO ENTITLED TO A GRATUITY BASED UPON LENGTH OF SERVICE OR A PROVIDENT FUND SCHEME.
+ IN SUCH A CASE,* HE SAID, +THE SEVERANCE PAYMENT IS REDUCED BY THE AMOUNT OF GRATUITY OR PROVIDENT FUND. THOSE EMPLOYERS WHO SET UP THEIR OWN PROVIDENT FUNDS FOR THEIR EMPLOYEES, THEREBY DIMINISH ANY DIFFICULTIES THAT MIGHT ARISE OVER SEVERANCE PAY.*
MR. WILLIAMS CONTINUED: +AN IMPORTANT FACTOR IN THE CALCULATION OF SEVERANCE PAY FOR TIME OR PIECE-RATED EMPLOYEES WAS THE NUMBER OF DAYS INVOLVED.
+UNDER THE PRINCIPAL ORDINANCE, WORKERS ARE ENTITLED TO ONE REST DAY A WEEK. ON THE OTHER HAND WEEKLY REST DAYS ARE NOT BY STATUTE REQUIRED TO BE PAID AND AN EMPLOYEE MAY OPT TO WORK ON HIS REST DAY, AT THE REQUEST OF HIS EMPLOYER.
+CONSEQUENTLY WITHIN A PERIOD OF HALF A MONTH, NON-MONTHLY PAID WORKERS WOULD NORMALLY WORK AND BE PAID FOR 13 DAYS. THIRTEEN DAYS’ WAGES ARE THEREFORE CONSIDERED EQUIVALENT TO HALF A MONTH’S PAY FOR NON-MONTHLY PAID WORKERS.*
+THIS PIECE OF LEGISLATION,* SAID MR. WILLIAMS, +IS YET ANOTHER MEASURE OF THE SUCCESS OF OUR INDUSTRIALISATION PROCESS. THE COMMENTS MADE BY THE UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS THIS AFTERNOON WILL BE OF CONSIDERABLE ASSISTANCE TO US ALL IN DEALING WITH THIS PROCESS.*
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON. JOHN HOBLEY, IN REPLY TO THE POINT RAISED BY MR. LO ON THE PRINCIPLES wH ICH GUIDE THE GOVERNMENT IN RELATION TO RETROSPECTIVE LEGISLATION, SAID HE COULD ONLY SAY IN THE TIME THAT HAD BEEN AVAILABLE HE COULD NOT POSSIBLY GIVE A FULL GENERAL ANSWER TO THE IMPORTANT QUESTION.
HE SAID HOWEVER THAT HE DID NOT CONSIDER ANYTHING IN THE BILL WAS RETROSPECTIVE +IN A WAY WHICH OFFENDS AGAINST THE PRINCIPLES.*
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
8
SEVEN DAYS ANNUAL LEAVE FOR WORKERS
* * * *
A BILL WHICH AIMS TO GIVE HONG KONG WORKERS SEVEN DAYS ANNUAL LEAVE HAD ITS FIRST AND SECOND READING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
IT COVERS ALL MANUAL WORKERS IRRESPECTIVE OF THEIR EARNINGS AND NON-MANUAL EMPLOYEES EARNING UP TO $2,000 A MONTH WHO HAVE SERVED 12 MONTHS WITH ONE EMPLOYER.
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) BILL 1977, THE NEW COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, THE HON. PETER WILLIAMS, SAID THE SEVEN DAYS ANNUAL LEAVE WOULD BE IN ADDITION TO THE TEN STATUTORY HOLIDAYS WORKERS ARE ALREADY ENTITLED TO BY LAW.
MR. WILLIAMS SAID THAT ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT POINTS IN THE BILL WAS THAT A WORKER’S ENTITLEMENT TO PAID HOLIDAYS EACH YEAR SHOULD BE CONSECUTIVE AND THIS PERIOD COULD INCLUDE STATUTORY HOLIDAYS OR REST DAYS.
+THIS WOULD MEAN,* MR. WILLIAMS CONTINUED, + THAT SEVEN CONSECUTIVE DAYS OF LEAVE COULD BE TAKEN AT CHINESE NEW YEAR, MADE UP OF THREE STATUTORY HOLIDAYS PLUS FOUR DAYS OF THE SEVEN DAYS ANNUAL LEAVE, ADDED BEFORE OR AFTER THE CHINESE NEW YEAR HOL I DAYS.
+IN SUCH A CASE, THE REMAINING THREE DAYS OF THE ANNUAL LEAVE COULD BE TAKEN AT SOME OTHER TIME OF THE YEAR EITHER TOGETHER OR SEPARATELY, BY THE EMPLOYEE AGREED WITH HIS EMPLOYER.*
MR. WILLIAMS EXPLAINED THAT THE MAIN REASON FOR INSISTING ON A FIXED PERIOD OF CONSECUTIVE LEAVE WAS THAT IT WOULD CONTRIBUTE TO BETTER HEALTH AND BETTER MORALE BY GIVING THE WORKER A HOLIDAY RATHER THAN JUST A DAY OFF.
THE BILL, WHICH WILL COME INTO FORCE ON JANUARY 1 NEXT YEAR IF ENACTED, PROHIBITS PAYMENT IN LIEU OF LEAVE EXCEPT WHERE AN EMPLOYEE’S CONTRACT IS TERMINATED. IN THIS CASE, ANY ANNUAL LEAVE EARNED AND NOT TAKEN WILL BE ENTITLED TO ANNUAL LEAVE PAY ON A PRO-RATA BASIS.
MR. WILLIAMS SAID THAT GOVERNMENT, IN DECIDING ON THE NEED AND EXTENT OF THE HOLIDAYS, WAS GUIDED SOLELY BY WHAT IT BELIEVED TO BE IN THE WIDE INTERESTS OF BOTH EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES.
HE SAID: + IN CASE IT SHOULD BE SUGGESTED THAT THIS MEASURE WOULD AFFECT HONG KONG’S COMPETITIVE POSITION IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT ARRANGEMENTS PREVAILING IN NEIGHBOURING ASIAN COUNTRIES VARY, BUT RANGE BETWEEN SIX AND 13 DAYS A YEAR.
+THERE IS NO SIMILAR COMMUNITY WHICH MAKES NO PROVISION FOR ANNUAL LEAVE,* HE ADDED.
INTERNATIONAL LABOUR CONVENTION NO. 132 RECOMMENDS ANNUAL HOLIDAYS OF AT LEAST THREE WORKING WEEKS, WHICH MUST INCLUDE AT LEAST TWO UNINTERRUPTED WORKING WEEKS, THOUGH FEW COUNTRIES HAVE YET RATIFIED IT.
AR. WILLIAMS
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
9
MR. WILLIAMS SAID THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD AND THE EMPLOYERS’ ASSOCIATIONS HAVE ALL SUPPORTED THE PRINCIPLE OF SEVEN DAYS’ ANNUAL LEAVE WITH PAY, THOUGH THEY DIFFERED ON OTHER ASPECTS OF THE PROPOSALS.
COMMENTING ON SOME CRITICS’ SUGGESTION THAT THE GOVERNMENT INSISTENCE ON A PERIOD OF LEAVE TAKEN CONSECUTIVELY AND WITHOUT PAY-IN-LIEU, WOULD BE IMPOSING ITS WISHES ON WORKERS, MR. WILLIAMS SAID: +THE GOVERNMENT’S VIEW IS THAT PAYMENT OF ADDITIONAL WAGES IN LIEU OF LEAVE WOULD DEFEAT THE SOCIAL OBJECTIVE OF GIVING WORKERS A PERIOD OF LEAVE SO THAT THEY MAY ENJOY A REASONABLE REST FROM THEIR WORK AND A CHANGE FROM THEIR NORMAL WORKING LIFE.+
+HOWEVER, TO AVOID RIGIDITY IN APPLICATION OF THESE NEW MEASURES, THE BILL NOW PROPOSES THAT THE SEVEN CONSECUTIVE DAYS’ ABSENCE FROM WORK MAY BE MADE UP PARTLY OF DAYS OF ANNUAL LEAVE AND PARTLY OF REST DAYS OR STATUTORY HOLIDAYS OR BOTH, SO LONG AS THE EMPLOYEE RECEIVES THE BALANCE OF HIS ANNUAL LEAVE DAYS AT SOME OTHER TIME IN THE YEAR,+ HE ADDED.
REFERRING TO OTHER COMMENTS AND RECENT ADVERTISEMENTS IN THE PRESS IN WHICH SOME EMPLOYERS ARGUED THAT THE INTRODUCTION OF A COMPULSORY CONSECUTIVE SEVEN DAYS’ HOLIDAY, AT A TIME WHEN THERE WAS A SHORTAGE OF LABOUR IN SOME SECTORS OF INDUSTRY AND FUTURE PROSPECTS WERE NOT CLEARLY FAVOURABLE, WOULD DAMAGE THE ECONOMY, MR. WILLIAMS SAID: +l THINK THIS IS TOO PESSIMISTIC A VIEW.+
HE SAID: +THERE WILL OF COURSE BE SOME CONSEQUENTIAL INCREASE IN THE SIZE OF THE WAGE BILL.
+IT HAS BEEN CALCULATED THAT, IF REPLACEMENT WORKERS ARE ENGAGED TO FILL ALL VACANCIES CAUSED BY ANNUAL LEAVE, THE WAGE BILL WOULD INCREASE BY NOT MORE THAN 2.3 PER CENT.
+AGAINST THIS MUST BE SET THE FACT THAT MANY EMPLOYERS ALREADY GIVE ANNUAL LEAVE TO THEIR EMPLOYEES IN MORE GENEROUS TERMS THAN THOSE PROPOSED IN THIS BILL AND THAT THE BENEFITS OF A PERIOD OF REST MAY BE EXPECTED TO IMPROVE THE PRODUCTIVITY OF THE WORKERS.
+l DO NOT THEREFORE ACCEPT THAT THE ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF THIS MEASURE WILL BE SIGNIFICANT, FAR LESS SERIOUS. BUT I DO ASSERT THAT THESE ARE MEASURES WHICH CONFER ON OUR WORKERS A BENEFIT WHICH THEIR EFFORTS HAVE SURELY JUSTIFIED.
+THE PROSPERITY OF HONG KONG, AS IS SO OFTEN SAID, IS FOUNDED UPON THE EFFICIENCY, ZEAL AND ADAPTABILITY OF AN INTELLIGENT WORK FORCE, SURELY IT IS RIGHT THAT THEIR CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT SHOULD BE IMPROVED SO THAT THEY MAY ENJOY SOMETHING OF THE INCREASED PROSPERITY WHICH THEY HAVE DONE SO MUCH TO HELP TO CREATE,+ MR. WILLIAMS SAID.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
10 -
HONG KONG YAUMATI FERRY FARE INCREASE APPROVED
* * *
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL HAS APPROVED AN INCREASE ON THE ADULT FARE OF MOST OF THE HONG KONG YAUMATI FERRY COMPANY’S
; CROSS-HARBOUR PASSENGER FERRY SERVICES FROM 30 CENTS TO 40 CENTS FROM JULY 1, 1977.
THE PRICE OF A MONTHLY TICKET WILL BE CORRESPONDINGLY INCREASED FROM $12 TO $16 WHILE CHILDREN’S AND STUDENTS’ FARES WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED AT 20 CENTS AND $6 FOR A MONTHLY TICKET.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, THE HON. DEREK JONES, WHEN MOVING THE FARE INCREASE THIS AFTERNOON, EXPLAINED THAT THIS WOULD BE THE THIRD ROUND OF MEASURES ADOPTED BECAUSE OF THE FERRY COMPANY’S FINANCIAL POSITION.
HE SAID THAT IN AUGUST LAST YEAR, THE COUNCIL HAD AGREED TO ABOLISH ROYALTY AND MONTHLY FEES CHARGED ON THE COMPANY AND TO INTRODUCE A ONE-CLASS FARE ON CROSS-HARBOUR PASSENGER SERVICES, AND LAST DECEMBER, CERTAIN INCREASES IN FARES WERE APPROVED ON OUTLYING DISTRICT SERVICES.
MR. JONES NOTED THAT THE COMPANY HAD ONLY A 2 PER CENT RETURN OF $2 MILLION ON ITS NET FIXED ASSETS OF SOME $100 MILLION EMPLOYED IN ITS FERRY OPERATIONS LAST YEAR.
+AND, EVEN THEN, ALL THIS PROFIT AND MORE CAME FROM THE VEHICULAR SERVICES, WHILE THE PASSENGER SERVICES AS A WHOLE MADE A LOSS,* HE SAID.
HE EXPECTED THAT THE 10 CENTS FARE INCREASE WOULD GIVE A MODEST PROFIT OF ABOUT $3.9 MILLION, OR ROUGHLY 4 PER CENT ON THE NET FIXED ASSETS EMPLOYED, IN 1977, ASSUMING THAT THE SMALL INCREASE WOULD ONLY DETER SOME 5 PER CENT OF PRESENT FERRY PASSENGERS.
+EVEN IN THESE CIRCUMSTANCES, HOWEVER, THE LARGER PART OF THE COMPANY’S PROFITS WOULD CONTINUE TO COME FROM NON-FERRY OPERATIONS,* MR. JONES POINTED OUT.
HE SAID THAT THE NUMBER OF PASSENGERS CARRIED ON THE COMPANY’S CROSS-HARBOUR FERRIES DECLINED BY A FURTHER 7 PER CENT LAST YEAR WITH THE RESULT THAT SIX OF THE ELEVEN FERRY ROUTES WHICH WERE TO BE AFFECTED BY THE FARE REVISION +DID NOT EVEN MAKE ENOUGH REVENUE IN 1976 TO COVER THEIR DIRECT OPERATING COSTS, LET ALONE MAKE ANY CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEPRECIATION OF THEIR VESSELS OR TO GENERAL OVERHEADS.*
/+IT IS .......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
11
+IT IS FORECAST THAT, IF THIS IS ALLOWED TO CONTINUE, WITH NO FURTHER AMELIORATING ACTION BEING TAKEN, THE COMPANY IS LIKELY TO MAKE A LOSS ON ITS FERRY OPERATIONS AS A WHOLE IN 1977,+ HE SAID.
+IT WOULD THEN ONLY BE KEPT GOING BY THE PROFITS MADE ON ITS NON-FERRY OPERATIONS WHICH WOULD, IN EFFECT, THEN BE SUBSIDISING THE FERRIES.+
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE WORST LOSSES WERE THE WAN CHAI TO JORDAN ROAD AND WAH CHAI TO HUNG HOM FERRY ROUTES, AND SERIOUS CONSIDERATION WAS GIVEN TO WHETHER ONE OR BOTH OF THEM SHOULD BE WITHDRAWN.
HOWEVER, HE SAID, IT WAS FELT THAT ON TRANSPORT GROUNDS THEY SHOULD BE CONTINUED, ESPECIALLY AS THE WAN CHAI RECLAMATION WAS NOW BEING DEVELOPED, AND IT WAS AGREED WITH THE COMPANY THAT ONE VESSEL SHOULD BE REMOVED FROM THE WAN CHAI-JORDAN ROAD ROUTE.
+THIS WILL SLIGHTLY REDUCE THE FREQUENCY OF SERVICE BUT THE SAVINGS REALISED, ALONG WITH THE FARE INCREASE, SHOULD MORE OR LESS ELIMINATE THE DIRECT OPERATING LOSS ON THE TWO ROUTES WITHOUT CAUSING ANY SIGNIFICANT INCONVENIENCE TO THE TRAVELLING PUBLIC,* HE SAID.
MR. JONES TOLD THE COUNCIL THAT DISCUSSIONS WERE CONTINUING BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE COMPANY ON FURTHER MEASURES TO CUT COSTS OR IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY OF FERRY SERVICES.
SINCE DECEMBER WHEN THE AFFAIRS OF THE COMPANY WERE LAST DEBATED, THREE SURPLUS VESSELS HAD BEEN SOLD AND SAVINGS HAD BEEN MADE IN ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS, HE SAID.
HE ADDED THAT EFFORTS WERE ALSO BEING MADE TO SELL THE WATER TAXIS WHICH HAD PROVED TO BE VERY EXPENSIVE TO RUN, AND TO DATE, ONE OF THEM HAD BEEN SOLD WHILE THE COMPANY REPORTED THAT THERE WERE GOOD PROSPECTS OF DISPOSING OF OTHERS.
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SEIZURE OF DRUG TRAFFICKERS’ ASSETS
******
CONSIDERATION IS BEING GIVEN TO THE POSSIBILITY OF PROVIDING THAT THE ASSETS OF CONVICTED DRUG TRAFFICKERS, INCLUDING ASSETS HELD BY OTHERS ON THEIR BEHALF, SHOULD BE LIABLE TO FORFEITURE UNLESS A COURT IS SATISFIED THAT THE ASSETS WERE ACQUIRED HONESTLY, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON. JOHN HOBLEY, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
MR. HOBLEY WAS REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM DR. THE HON. HENRY HU ON WHETHER AMENDING LEGISLATION TO PROVIDE FOR SUCH SEQUESTRATION WOULD BE INTRODUCED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
12
IMPROVEMENTS TO PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD FLYOVER
* * * *
THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS, MR. DAVID MCDONALD, SAID TODAY THAT THE NEW SKID-RESISTANT TOPPING BEING APPLIED TO PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD FLYOVER WOULD IMPROVE THE SKID RESISTANCE OF THE ROAD BY ABOUT 64 PER CENT.
IN REPLY TO QUESTIONS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR. MCDONALD SAID THAT IN ADDITION TO THE APPLICATION OF THE TOPPING WHICH WOULD BE COMPLETED WITHIN THE NEXT FEW DAYS, VERY LARGE +SLOW+ SIGNS HAD BEEN INSTALLED ALONGSIDE THE ROADWAY TO HELP IMPROVE DRIVING SAFETY ON THE FLYOVER.
ANSWERING A QUESTION FROM DR. THE HON. S.Y. CHUNG, HE SAID THAT +A LONG TERM SOLUTION IS, HOWEVER, BEING EXAMINED WHICH, IF ADOPTED, WOULD ADD ONE EXTRA LANE TO THE ROADWAY AND WOULD PERMIT THE ERECTION OF A CENTRAL DIVIDER.*
UNFORTUNATELY, MR. MCDONALD SAID, THE PRESENT FLYOVER IS OF INSUFFICIENT WIDTH TO ALLOW FOR CRASH BARRIERS TO BE INSTALLED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CARRIAGEWAY TO ELIMINATE THE POSSIBILITY OF HEAD-ON COLLISIONS.
NOR COULD THE POSSIBILITY OF CLOSING ONE OF THE SOUTHBOUND LANES BE ENTERTAINED.
+THE DOUBLE SOUTHBOUND LANES ARE REQUIRED TO PROVIDE A FASTER FLOW OF TRAFFIC TO THE SOUTH TO REDUCE THE TRAFFIC BACK UP WHICH WOULD AFFECT THE JUNCTION IN WATERLOO ROAD,* MR. MCDONALD SAID.
QUESTIONED ABOUT THE TRANSVERSE GRADIENT ON THE CARRIAGEWAY, HE SAID THAT IT WAS +DESIGNED FOR A SPEED OF 30 MPH, WHICH IS THE CORRECT SUPER ELEVATION FOR THE ROAD.+
MR. MCDONALD ALSO SAID THAT +ALTHOUGH THE FLYOVER IS ADEQUATELY DESIGNED TO ACCOMMODATE VEHICLES TRAVELLING WITHIN THE URBAN SPEED LIMIT OF 30 MPH IT WOULD APPEAR THAT MANY DRIVERS ARE NOT STAYING WITHIN THE SPEED LIMIT NOR ARE THEY EXERCISING DUE CARE AND ARE THEREBY PUTTING THEMSELVES AND OTHER ROAD USERS AT RISK.*
EARLIER, SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, THE HON. DEREK JONES SAID THAT IN THE 17-MONTH PERIOD FROM JANUARY 1 LAST YEAR TO MAY 26 THIS YEAR THERE WERE 26 TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS ON PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD FLYOVER WHICH RESULTED IN 12 PERSONS BEING KILLED, 28 SERIOUSLY INJURED AND 34 HAVING SUFFERED MINOR INJURIES.
OF THE 26 ACCIDENTS, 13 OCCURRED DURING DAYLIGHT AND
13 AT NIGHT. NO FEWER THAN 17 OF THEM INVOLVED HEAD-ON COLLISIONS.
+ THE SPEED RESTRICTION ON THIS FLYOVER IS 30 MPH AND IT WOULD APPEAR THAT MANY OF THE VEHICLES INVOLVED WERE TRAVELLING AT SPEEDS IN EXCESS OF THIS LIMIT,* MR. JONES SAID.
A TH IS ........
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
+THIS COULD LEAD TO DRIVERS HAVING INSUFFICIENT CONTROL OF THEIR VEHICLES AND CRASHING HEAD ON WITH VEHICLES COMING IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION.+
SOME OF THE ACCIDENTS ALSO APPEARED TO RESULT FROM DRIVERS OVERTAKING ON THE FLYOVER WITHOUT PROPER CARE, HE ADDED.
THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE IS SETTING UP A SPEED DETECTION UNIT ON THE APPROACHES TO THE FLYOVER IN SUCH A WAY THAT ITS PRESENCE WILL BE MADE OBVIOUS TO DRIVERS, APART FROM ENGINEERING MEASURES BEING CARRIED OUT ON THE FLYOVER, MR. JONES POINTED OUT.
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SERIES OF TUNNELS AND ELEVATED HIGHWAYS FOR FUTURE TRAFFIC * * * * *
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT IS PLANNING TO BUILD A SERIES OF TUNNELS AND ELEVATED HIGHWAYS TO CATER FOR HONG KONG’S FUTURE TRAFFIC REQUIREMENTS, THE SENIOR HIGHWAYS OFFICE PLANNING ENGINEER, MR. PANG HAU-CHUNG, SAID TODAY.
IN PREPARING THEIR PROPOSALS, MR. PANG SAID, PLANNERS HAD TAKEN THREE PRINCIPAL POINTS INTO CONSIDERATION. +THESE WERE THE GROWTH OF POPULATION, PARTICULARLY IN THE NEW TERRITORIES OVER THE NEXT 20 YEARS- THE INCREASE IN MOTOR VEHICLE OWNERSHIP AND INCREASED USE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT WHICH WILL RESULT FROM INCREASING PERSONAL INCOME- AND APPROPRIATE CONCERN FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS.+
MR. PANG, WHO IS THE SENIOR PLANNING ENGINEER IN THE P.W.D.’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT SURVEY DIVISION, WAS ADDRESSING A ROTARY CLUB OF KOWLOON WEST LUNCHEON.
HE SAID THAT BETWEEN NOW AND 1981 THE PRIMARY DISTRIBUTOR NETWORK IN KOWLOON WOULD BE IMPROVED WITH THE COMPLETION OF THE AIRPORT TUNNEL ROUTE, AN ELEVATED ROAD ALONG CHATHAM ROAD AND KOWLOON CITY ROAD, DUPLICATION OF THE LION ROCK TUNNEL, AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF STAGE I OF TUEN MUN ROAD.
♦OTHER MAJOR ROUTES AT VARIOUS STAGES OF PLANNING, DESIGN, OR CONSTRUCTION INCLUDE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR, TSUEN WAN BY-PASS, STAGE II OF TUEN MUN ROAD, ROUTE 5 FROM TSUEN WAN TO SHA TIN, ROUTE 16 FROM LAI CHI KOK TO SHA TIN AND A COASTAL ROAD FROM SHA TIN TO TAI P0,+ MR. PANG SAID.
ON HONG KONG ISLAND THE FUTURE MOVEMENT OF TRAFFIC WILL BE HELPED BY THE OPENING OF THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL IN 1980 AND THE COMPLETION OF A MULTI-LANE ROAD FROM CENTRAL TO THE DEVELOPING AREAS ON THE NORTH EASTERN END OF THE ISLAND, HE SAID.
♦STAGE I OF THE PROJECT, FROM CAUSEWAY BAY TO NORTH POINT IS DUE FOR COMPLETION IN LATE 1982.+
/♦OTHER
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
14
+OTHER MAJOR PROJECTS INCLUDE THE FLYOVER CONNECTION BETWEEN POKFULAM ROAD AND CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST, TAI HANG ROAD AND LAU SIN STREET FLYOVERS, THE REMAINING STAGES OF THE ISLAND EAST CORRIDOR, ELEVATED ROAD ALONG CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL, AND AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE.
MR. PANG SAID THAT THE COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORT STUDY WHICH WAS SUBMITTED TO GOVERNMENT LAST DECEMBER HAD USED THE LATEST TRANSPORTATION PLANNING TECHNIQUES AND NEW ANALYTICAL METHODS TO DETERMINE THE FUTURE ROAD NEEDS OF HONG KONG.
+ALL THE REPORT’S RECOMMENDATIONS ARE BEING STUDIED BY A GOVERNMENT TEAM, HEADED BY THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, FORMULATING POLICIES ON TRANSPORT,* MR. PANG SAID, +AND THEY WOULD WELCOME ANY COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC*.
+THE NETWORK PROPOSED BY PREVIOUS STUDIES CONSISTS BASICALLY OF A LIMITED MILEAGE OF NEW AND IMPROVED ROUTES CALLED PRIMARY DISTRIBUTORS, AND A SECONDARY SYSTEM OF IMPROVED EXISTING ROUTES, CALLED DISTRICT DISTRIBUTORS TO ACT AS FEEDERS AND CONNECTIONS BETWEEN THE PRIMARY DISTRIBUTOR NETWORK ELEMENTS AND THE EXISTING ROAD SYSTEM.*
BUT IN IMPLEMENTING THESE RECOMMENDATIONS, P.W.D. ROAD DESIGNERS ARE CONSTRAINED BY EXTREMELY HIGH BUILDING DENSITIES AND THE DIFFICULT TERRAIN, MR. PANG SAID.
+IN THE BUILT UP AREAS, BUILDING NEW ROADS OR WIDENING EXISTING STREETS WOULD BE PROHIBITIVELY EXPENSIVE BECAUSE OF THE HIGH COST OF ACQUISITION,* MR. PANG SAID.
+THEREFORE ROAD IMPROVEMENTS IN THESE AREAS USUALLY TAKE THE FORM OF ELEVATED ROADWAYS AND RAMPS ALONG EXISTING ROAD RESERVES OR ONLY LIMITED WIDENING.
+IN A FEW WATERFRONT LOCATIONS, NEW ROADS CAN BE CONSTRUCTED ON RECLAIMED LAND, WHILE INLAND THE MAJOR FACTORS AFFECTING ROAD LOCATION ARE THE LIMITATIONS OF GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS AND THE ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS TO THESE IN MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN.*
MR. PANG SAID THAT +BECAUSE OF THESE RESTRICTIONS, IT IS OBVIOUS THAT IN MANY CASES, THE DESIGN SPEEDS AND LEVELS OF SERVICE PROVIDED IN HONG KONG WOULD BE LOWER THAN WOULD BE USED FOR OTHER WESTERN COUNTRIES.
+BUT ON THE OTHER HAND, EVERY ATTEMPT HAS BEEN MADE TO OBTAIN HIGH TRAFFIC CAPACITIES BECAUSE OF THE FORECAST DEMANDS FOR HIGHWAYS.*
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SHORTER STAY REQUIRED IN DRUG ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRES ******
THE AVERAGE LENGTH OF STAY IN DRUG ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRES HAS SHORTENED BECAUSE OF EXPERIENCE GAINED IN CONDUCTING THE TREATMENT PROGRAMME, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON. LEWIS DAVIES SAID WHEN MOVING THE DRUG ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRES (AMENDMENT) BILL IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
THE BILL PROPOSES TO REDUCE THE PERIOD OF DETENTION IN A TREATMENT CENTRE FROM A MAXIMUM OF 18 MONTHS TO 12 MONTHS AND FROM A MINIMUM OF SIX MONTHS TO FOUR MONTHS.
MR. LEWIS NOTED THAT THE AVERAGE LENGTH OF STAY IN TREATMENT CENTRES IN 1973 WAS 10 MONTHS AND IN THE LAST TWO YEARS 7-1/2 MONTHS.
♦LIKEWISE, IN 1973, 435 ADDICTS SPENT MORE THAN 12 MONTHS IN ONE OF THESE CENTRES WHEREAS IN 1975 AND 1976, THE NUMBER HAD FALLEN TO UNDER TEN. TODAY THERE ARE NONE,+ HE SAID.
♦DESPITE THE SHORTER PERIOD OF STAY THE SUCCESS RATE HAS REMAINED HIGH, BY COMPARABLE STANDARDS ELSEWHERE,* HE ADDED.
THE REVISED LIMITS OF STAY WERE CONSIDERED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF PRISONS IN THE LIGHT OF THESE ENCOURAGING CIRCUMSTANCES AND HAVE THE SUPPORT OF THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS, MR. LEWIS SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS THOUGHT THE LENGTH OF THE MAXIMUM PERIOD AN ADDICT MIGHT SPEND UNDER TREATMENT HAS SOME PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECT ON HIS ATTITUDE TO THE TREATMENT PROGRAMME.
♦A REDUCED PERIOD OF DETENTION SEEMS JUSTIFIED ON THE ACTUAL AVERAGE LENGTH OF TREATMENT, BUT IT SHOULD HAVE THE ADDITIONAL BENEFIT OF ENCOURAGING AN EVEN MORE POSITIVE RESPONSE BY ADDICTS TO THE TREATMENT PROGRAMME,+ HE SAID.
A SUPPLEMENTARY BENEFIT FROM REDUCING THE MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM PERIOD OF DETENTION, HE SAID, WOULD BE TO INCREASE THE THROUGHPUT AT THE FOUR TREATMENT CENTRES, WHICH HAVE A CERTIFIED ACCOMMODATION FOR 1,618 ADDICTS BUT AN ACTUAL POPULATION OF 1,775.
♦IT IS OUR AIM, OF COURSE, TO HAVE A PLACE FOR ALL PERSONS WHO ARE FOUND SUITABLE FOR TREATMENT,* HE STRESSED.
THE PRESENT ARRANGEMENTS BY WHICH A RELEASED INMATE REMAINS SUBJECT TO A SUPERVISION ORDER FOR A PERIOD OF 12 MONTHS UNDER THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT’S AFTER-CARE SERVICE WOULD NOT BE ALTERED BY THE AMENDMENT BILL.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
16 -
HIGHER EDUCATION TO COST GOVT $1,3OOM OVER NEXT TRIENN I UM 1978-81 *******
OVER THE NEXT THREE FINANCIAL YEARS BETWEEN 1978-79 AND 1980-81 THE TOTAL COST TO PUBLIC FUNDS FOR THE TWO UNIVERSITIES AND THE POLYTECHNIC WOULD BE ABOUT $1,300 MILLION, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE UNIVERSITY AND POLYTECHNIC GRANTS COMMITTEE, THE HON. JOHN BREMRIDGE, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
BY THEN THE TOTAL FULL-TIME STUDENT POPULATION IN THE THREE HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTIONS WOULD HAVE RISEN TO NEARLY 20,000, MR. BREMRIDGE PREDICTED IN A SPEECH ON THE SPECIAL REPORT OF THE UNIVERSITY AND POLYTECHNIC GRANTS COMMITTEE FOR THE PERIOD 1965-76.
TEN YEARS AGO THE FULL-TIME STUDENT POPULATION OF THE TWO UNIVERSITIES WAS 3,912, AND THE POLYTECHNIC WAS ONLY A SCHEME OF VISIONARIES. TODAY HONG KONG UNIVERSITY HAS A FULL-TIME STUDENT POPULATION OF 4,036- CHINESE UNIVERSITY 4,171- AND THE POLYTECHNIC 7,760 FULL-TIME EQUIVALENT. THE TOTAL, INCLUDING PART-TIME DAY AND EVENING STUDENTS, IS ABOUT 16,000.
THE TOTAL GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURE ON THE TWO UNIVERSITIES IN 1965-66 WAS $33 MILLION. IN 1975-76 AND NOW INCLUDING THE POLYTECHNIC IT WAS S32O MILLION.
MR. BREMRIDGE SAID THAT SUCH +EXPLOSIVE INCREASES* REQUIRED THE MOST SENSITIVE HANDLING BY THE TWO VICE CHANCELLORS AND THE DIRECTOR.
BUT. HE ADDED, +EVEN MORE REMARKABLE HAS BEEN THE FINANCE THAT GOVERNMENT HAS PROVIDED OVER A PERIOD WHEN THERE HAS BEEN GREAT FINANCIAL STRINGENCY, AND WHEN ISSUES OF PRIORITIES HAVE BEEN DIFFICULT.*
+ALL THIS MONEY HAS BEEN FUNNELLED THROUGH THE GRANTS COMITTEE AND IT IS RIGHT TO NOTE GRATEFULLY THAT THOSE IN GOVERNMENT WITH ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY HAVE ALWAYS TAKEN THAT LONG TERM VIEW WHICH IS PARTICULARLY ESSENTIAL IN EDUCATION.
+1 EMPHASISE THE OFFICIAL SIDE, BECAUSE THE UPGC IS REALLY ONLY AN ADVISORY BODY (THOUGH WITH SOME EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS) OPERATING AMIDST SHOT AND SHELL IN THE NO MAN’S LAND BETWEEN THE RIGHTLY, MAY I SAY VEHEMENTLY, AUTONOMOUS INSTITUTIONS AND THE GOVERNMENT- AND IT IS THE GOVERNMENT WHICH MUST HAVE THE LAST SAY IN ALL FINANCIAL MATTERS — SUBJECT OF COURSE TO THE CONSENT OF THIS COUNCIL,* HE SAID.
TERTIARY EDUCATION IN HONG KONG IS AT A TURNING POINT, MR. BREMRIDGE NOTED, AND THERE EXIST WIDELY AND HONESTLY DIFFERENT VIEWS.
/the
17
THE MORE THESE VIEWS AND MANY OTHER DISPUTATIOUS ISSUES ARE AIRED IN PUBLIC, THE BETTER, MR. BREMRIDGE POINTED OUT.
BUT HE EMPHASISED THAT STAFFING, TEACHING AND RESEARCH ARE THE DIRECT RESPONSIBILITY OF THE UNIVERSITIES AND OF THE POLYTECHNIC- NOT OF UPGC NOR OF THE GOVERNMENT.
+WE MUST ALSO NEVER FORGET THAT LEARNING AS AN END IN ITSELF SHOULD NOT EE OVER-SUBJECTED TO COMMERCIAL OR POLITICAL EVALUATION- THOUGH COST IS INEVITABLY A MAJOR CRITERION, BECAUSE EDUCATION MUST TAKE ITS PLACE AMONGST OTHER COMMUNITY PRIORITIES, AND BECAUSE MOST OF THE MONEY INEVITABLY COMES FROM THE TAXPAYER,+ HE SAID.
FACTORS CONSIDERED IN CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL TOLL CHARGE
XXX
THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, THE HON. DEREK JONES SAID TODAY REGARD MUST ALSO BE GIVEN TO OTHER VERY IMPORTANT TRANSPORT REQUIREMENTS IN CONSIDERING THE TOLLS CHARGED FOR THE USE OF THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL, APART FROM THE COMPANY’S FINANCIAL POSITION.
IN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON. WONG LAM IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR. JONES SAID THERE IS A LIMIT TO THE DEMANDS THAT CAN BE PLACED ON THE TUNNEL AND IF TOLLS WERE LOWERED NOW, THIS WOULD ONLY RESULT IN YET MORE VEHICLES SEEKING TO USE IT.
+THIS WOULD NOT ONLY BRING ABOUT CONGESTION AND QUEUES, BUT WOULD CAUSE AN UNDESIRABLE DIVERSION OF DEMAND FROM THE VEHICULAR FERRIES WHICH ARE, ONCE AGAIN, BEGINNING TO EXPERIENCE A GROWTH IN USAGE,+ SAID MR. JONES.
HE NOTED THAT THE DESIGN CAPACITY OF THE TUNNEL IS ABOUT 70,030 VEHICLES A DAY. THE AVERAGE DAILY USAGE WAS INCREASED FROM 20,000 VEHICLES A DAY WHEN IT OPENED IN AUGUST 1972, TO 42,000 IN 1975, 50,000 LAST YEAR AND 56,000 IN THE FIRST FOUR MONTHS THIS YEAR.
DURING THE CHINESE NEW YEAR THIS YEAR, DEMAND REACHED A PEAK LEVEL OF 71,003 VEHICLES A DAY AND THE TUNNEL AND ITS APPROACH ROADS, PARTICULARLY ON THE HONG KONG SIDE, DEMONSTRABLY NEARED SATURATION.
MR. JONES SAID THAT AT PRESENT, THERE IS A HIGH AND GROWING DEMAND FROM MOTORISTS AND OTHER TRAFFIC TO USE THE TUNNEL.
MR. JONES ALSO POINTED OUT THAT 12-1/2 PER CENT OF THE COMPANY’S PROFITS IS PAID TO THE GOVERNMENT AS ROYALTY AND 17-1/2 PER CENT IN CORPORATION PROFITS TAX. OF THE REMAINDER, ABOUT 25 PER CENT ACCRUES TO THE GOVERNMENT AS A SHAREHOLDER.
♦SO THE TAXPAYERS AND THE COMMUNITY AT LARGE ARE CONSIDERABLE BENEFICIARIES FROM THE SUCCESS OF THIS ENTERPRISE,* SAID MR. JONES.
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CHANGE OF NAME FOR PREVENTIVE SERVICE PROPOSED ******
THE^PREVENT IVE SERVICE MAY BE RENAMED CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE.
THIS IS ONE OF SEVERAL CHANGES PROPOSED IN THE PREVENTIVE SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977 WHICH RECEIVED ITS SECOND READING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, MR.. BILL DORWARD, IN INTRODUCING THE BILL, EMPHASISED THAT THE CHANGE OF NAME IN NO WAY IMPLIED ANY CHANGE IN BASIC GOVERNMENT POLICY TO PRESERVE HONG KONG AS A FREE PORT IN THE TRUE MEANING OF THE TERM.
THE RATHER ANTIQUATED TERM PREVENTIVE SERVICE, MR. DORWARD EXPLAINED, WAS FIRST USED TO DESCRIBE THE COASTGUARD IN ENGLAND IN THE DAYS WHEN SMUGGLING WAS RESPECTABLE.
+IT WAS INTRODUCED HERE VERY LARGELY BECAUSE IT WAS FELT BY SOME AT THE TIME THAT TO REFER TO A CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE, WHICH IN EFFECT IS WHAT WE HAVE HAD FOR MANY YEARS, WOULD NOT BE UNDERSTOOD IN VIEW OF THE FACT THAT HONG KONG WAS A FREE PORT,+ HE SAID.
+EXPERIENCE HAS SHOWN, HOWEVER, THAT FAR FROM AVOIDING MISUNDERSTANDING THE USE OF THE PREVENTIVE SERVICE TITLE HAS TENDED TO CAUSE IT,+ HE SAID.
MR. DORWARD ADDED: +FOR EXAMPLE, MUCH EMPHASIS HAS BEEN LAID RECENTLY ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF LINKS WITH OVERSEAS CUSTOMS SERVICES, PARTICULARLY IN THE FIELD OF ANTI-NARCOTICS WORK AND IT HAS BEEN NECESSARY REPEATEDLY TO EXPLAIN TO THEM THE NATURE OF THE SERVICE.
+AT POINTS OF ENTRY WE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN FORCED TO USE THE TERM CUSTOMS, FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVELLERS WOULD NOT UNDERSTAND ANY OTHER TERM. INDEED THE NAME ’PREVENTIVE SERVICE’ HAS EVEN BEEN CONFUSED WITH FAMILY PLANNING*, HE SAID.
MR. DORWARD EXPLAINED THAT THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THE BILL WAS TO BRING THE INSPECTORATE OF THE SERVICE UNDER THE DISCIPLINARY CONTROL OF THE COMMISSIONER RATHER THAN HAVING TO DEAL WITH THEM UNDER THE PROCEDURES LAID DOWN IN COLONIAL REGULATIONS.
THE PREVENTIVE SERVICE ORDINANCE WAS FIRST ENACTED IN 1963 AND SEVERAL OF ITS PROVISIONS WERE NOW OUT OF DATE, HE SAID, PARTICULARLY THOSE RELATING TO DISCIPLINARY AND CRIMINAL OFFENCES COMMITTED BY MEMBERS OF THE SERVICE.
THE BILL SEEKS TO REMEDY THIS SITUATION BY REPLACING PART OF THE PRINCIPAL ORDINANCE WITH NEW DISCIPLINARY PROVISIONS WHICH WILL BRING THE ORDINANCE INTO LINE WITH SIMILAR LEGISLATION RECENTLY ENACTED IN RESPECT OF OTHER DISCIPLINED SERVICES.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
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RATES OF LOCAL AND OVERSEAS OFFICERS LEAVE * * * * *
THE PRESENT RATES OF VACATION LEAVE FOR CIVIL SERVANTS ARE BASED ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE 1971 SALARIES COMMISSION, THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, THE HON. ALAN SCOTT TOLD LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON. T.S. LO ON OVERSEAS OFFICERS GETTING A MUCH HIGHER RATE OF VACATION LEAVE THAN LOCAL OFFICERS OF EQUIVALENT RANKS, MR. SCOTT SAID, THESE PRINCIPLES WERE ACCEPTED BY GOVERNMENT AFTER CONSIDERATION BY THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AND THEY WERE EMBODIED IN CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS.
QUOTING THE RECOMMENDATIONS, HE SAID, THE AIM HAD BEEN TO PROVIDE SIMILAR, BUT NOT NECESSARILY IDENTICAL, BENEFITS FOR ALL OFFICERS.
HE POINTED OUT THAT +THERE IS A CONTINUING NEED FOR OVERSEAS OFFICERS TO VISIT AND TO RENEW CONTACTS WITH THE LAND THAT IS THEIR HOME AND TO WHICH THEY WILL RETURN ON THEIR RETIREMENT.+
IN EXISTING CIRCUMSTANCES, IT WAS NO LONGER NECESSARY TO PROVIDE LONG PERIODS OF LEAVE FOR OVERSEAS OFFICERS TO ENABLE THEM TO RECUPERATE FROM THE EFFECTS OF AN ALIEN TROPICAL CLIMATE, HE EXPLAINED.
+THE NEEDS OF OVERSEAS AND LOCAL OFFICERS ARE THEREFORE DIFFERENT AND WE HAVE PRESERVED THE PRESENT SYSTEM OF DIFFERENT LEAVE RATES FOR THEM,+ HE SAID.
+THIS FOLLOWS THE GENERAL PRACTICE AMONG PRIVATE FIRMS IN HONG KONG = AND WE RECOMMEND THAT IT SHOULD EQUALLY APPLY TO LOCAL OFFICERS SERVING OUTSIDE HONG KONG.
+FOR THAT REASON WE HAVE DIVIDED LEAVE IN TWO COMPONENTS, BASIC LEAVE WHICH IS APPLICABLE TO ALL OFFICERS, AND AN OVERSEAS ADDITION APPLICABLE TO THOSE SERVING ABROAD,+ HE SAID.
- - - 0 -
/2O........
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
- 20 -
UP-TO-DATE CODE OF DISCIPLINE PROPOSED FOR THE POLICE FORCE X X X X X X X
SOME PRACTICAL DEFECTS FOUND IN RECENT YEARS IN THE DISCIPLINE PROVISIONS OF THE POLICE FORCE ORDINANCE WILL BE REMEDIED BY THE POLICE FORCE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON. LEWIS DAVIES TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WHEN MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL TODAY.
THE BILL ALSO PROVIDES GREATER FLEXIBILITY, AND IN CONJUNCTION WITH REGULATIONS TO BE MADE UNDER THE ORDINANCE, LAYS DOWN AN IMPROVED AND MORE UP-TO-DATE CODE OF DISCIPLINE, HE ADDED.
HE NOTED THAT THE FUNDAMENTAL DISCIPLINARY PROVISIONS OF THE PRESENT ORDINANCE WOULD BE RETAINED IN ESSENCE BUT SOME CHANGES WOULD BE INTRODUCED.
ONE OF THE MAIN ONES, HE EXPLAINED, PERMITS FULL-PAY INTERDICTION OF OFFICERS TO BE IMPOSED FOR AS LONG AS INVESTIGATIONS INTO THEIR CONDUCT ARE BEING HELD, THUS BRINGING THE INTERDICTION PROVISIONS INTO LINE WITH THOSE RECENTLY INTRODUCED FOR THE GOVERNMENT AS A WHOLE.
OTHER CHANGES ALLOW CIVILIAN OFFICERS ATTACHED TO THE POLICE FORCE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BENEFITS OF THE POLICE WELFARE FUND, AND EMPOWER THE COMMISSIONER TO DELEGATE TO THEM CERTAIN OF HIS POWERS, +T0 FURTHER THE POLICY OF INTEGRATING SUCH OFFICERS INTO THE FORCE.*
ANOTHER AMENDMENT MAKES OFFICERS, WHO NEGLIGENTLY CAUSE DAMAGE TO GOVERNMENT PROPERTY OR TO PRIVATE PROPERTY IN GOVERNMENT CUSTODY, LIABLE TO BOTH PUNISHMENT FOR THEIR NEGLIGENCE AND REPAYMENT FOR SOME OR ALL OF THE COSTS INCURRED.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
------0 - - - -
ENOUGH CORONERS TO CARRY OUT
DEATH INQUESTS
X X X X X X X
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON. JOHN HOBLEY, SAID THAT THERE WERE ENOUGH FULL-TIME CORONERS AT THE MOMENT AND THE NUMBER OF DEATH ENQUIRIES WAS SUCH THAT THE FULL-TIME SERVICES OF EVEN ONE CORONER WERE NOT GENERALLY REQUIRED.
HE WAS REPLYING TO QUESTIONS RAISED BY DR. THE HON. HARRY FANG IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
MR. HOBLEY SAID, +THE STATE OF BUSINESS IS CONSTANTLY MONITORED AND ARRANGEMENTS CAN READILY BE MADE FOR A SECOND CORONER TO SIT IF THAT IS EVER NECESSARY.+
+THIS IS BECAUSE THE CORONERS ORDINANCE ENABLES THE CHIEF JUSTICE TO APPOINT ANY MAGISTRATE AS A CORONER,* MR. HOBLEY ADDED, *AND IT IS THE CHIEF JUSTICE S PRACTICE TO APPOINT ALL MAGISTRATES AS CORONERS.*
- 0 - -
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
- 21 -
CONDITIONS FOR THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES IN HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS * * * *
THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON. LEWIS DAVIES TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY THAT THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES AND OTHER FORMS OF ENTERTAINMENT IN HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS ARE NOT SUBJECT TO ANY SPECIAL SAFETY CONDITIONS EXCEPT THOSE NORMALLY APPLICABLE TO SUCH PREMISES UNDER THE BUILDING ORDINANCE.
+THESE CONDITIONS COVER SUCH MATTERS AS STRUCTURAL STABILITY, FLOOR LOADINGS, ADEQUACY OF MEANS OF ESCAPE,* HE SAID IN REPLY TO QUESTIONS FROM THE HON. ALEX WU ON THE SAFETY CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH THESE PERFORMANCES AND FORMS OF ENTERTAINMENT ARE PERMITTED.
MR. DAVIES EXPLAINED, +THE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT SUCH AS SPRINKLER SYSTEMS, FIRE f HYDRANTS, FIRE EXT INGUI SHERS, HEAT AND SMOKE DETECTORS, ARE PRESCRIBED BY THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES.*
HE FURTHER POINTED OUT THAT: +UNDER THE FIRE SERVICES ORDINANCE, THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES IS ALSO EMPOWERED TO INSPECT SUCH PREMISES AT ALL REASONABLE HOURS AND WHERE A THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE OR ANY OTHER ENTERTAINMENT CREATES A FIRE HAZARD, THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES MAY ISSUE A FIRE ABATEMENT NOTICE PRESCRIBING CONDITIONS AND SPECIFYING SUCH REMEDIAL MEASURES AS HE THINKS NECESSARY.*
+IF THE NOTICE IS NOT FULLY COMPLIED WITH, THE DIRECTOR MAY SEEK AN ABATEMENT ORDER FROM A COURT,* HE ADDED.
-----o------
SERVICES FOR NEW ESTATES * * * *
wcrccciPY SERVICES SUCH AS TRANSPORT, SECURITY MEASURES, PUBLIC Snu’ks AND ^RKETlSs FACILITIES,’wOULD BE OPERATIONAL ‘BEFORE TENANTS MOVE INTO A NEW PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE, THc. SECRETARY FOR HOUSING, THE HON. ALAN SCOTT SAID TODAY.
IN REPLY TO A QUESTION RAISED BY THE HON. to ^lU-WAH DllRINO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING, MR. S^v । • k^INTlD OUT THAT*IN BOTH THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT STAGES THERl IS cSt™ ciSsIX™ AND CLOSE LIAISON BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS INVOLVED AND PUBLIC COMPANIES TO lNSURE THA। THtSt SERVICES ARE READY.
C - -
/22........
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
22
FURTHER STUDIES FOR METERED WATER SUPPLY FOR SHEK 0 * * * *
THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS, MR. DAVID MCDONALD, SAID TODAY THAT FURTHER STUDIES WOULD BE NECESSARY BEFORE A PLAN FOR THE PROVISION OF A COMPREHENSIVE METERED WATER SUPPLY FOR SHEK 0 COULD BE INCLUDED IN THE PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME.
MR. MCDONALD SAID IN REPLY TO A QUESTION IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BY DR. THE HON. HARRY FANG THAT THERE WERE NO IMMEDIATE PLANS TO IMPLEMENT A COMPREHENSIVE METERED SUPPLY TO SHEK 0.
HOWEVER CONSIDERATION IS BEING GIVEN TO A RECENT REQUEST BY THE CITY DISTRICT OFFICER (SOUTHERN) FOR A METERED CONNECTION FROM THE EXISTING WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM IN SHEK 0 FOR THE HEALTH CLINIC RUN BY LOCAL RESIDENTS.
THE EXISTING SYSTEM PROVIDES STANDPIPE SUPPLIES TO THE VILLAGES OF TAI LONG WAN AND SHEK 0 AND METERED CONNECTIONS TO THE POLICE POST, FIRST AID POST AND U.S.D. DEPOT.
+PRELIMINARY STUDIES INDICATE THAT A COMPREHENSIVE METERED SUPPLY WOULD REQUIRE THEIR ENLARGEMENT OF FACILITIES AND THE POSSIBLE ADVANCEMENT OF SERVICE RESERVOIR CONSTRUCTION AT CHAI WAN, FROM WHERE THE WATER WOULD HAVE TO BE SUPPLIED.
+IN ADDITION, THE COST OF A SCHEME TO CONVEY WATER FROM CHAI WAN TO SHEK 0 WOULD BE OF THE ORDER OF 5 OR 6 MILLION DOLLARS, HE ADDED.
+FURTHER STUDIES ARE NECESSARY TO ASSESS THE OVERALL IMPLICATIONS AND DEFINE REQUIREMENTS PRIOR TO SUBMITTING AN ITEM TO THE PUBLIC WORKS SUB-COMMITTEE FOR CONSIDERATION OF ITS INCLUSION AND PRIORITY IN THE PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME,+ HE SAID.
- - 0 - -
COMPULSORY LIGHTING ON CONTAINER LORRIES * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT WILL INTRODUCE LEGISLATION REQUIRING ALL CONTAINER LORRIES TO INSTALL FRONT AND REAR RED LIGHTS AT THE TOP OF THE LORRIES AND CONTAINERS.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, THE HON. DEREK JONES TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THIS AFTERNOON IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY DR. THE HON. S.Y. CHUNG THAT THE LEGISLATION WOULD ALSO REQUIRE THE LIGHTS TO BE SWITCHED ON AT NIGHT-TIME WHEN THE LORRIES WERE ON THE ROAD.
+THE COMPREHENSIVE REVISION OF THE ROAD TRAFFIC ORDINANCE, WHICH IS NOW BEING DRAFTED, WILL CONTAIN A REQUIREMENT FOR ADDITIONAL CORNER AND SIDE MARKER LAMPS TO BE FITTED TO LONG ARTICULATED VEHICLES FOR USE AT NIGHT,+ HE SAID.
23
COMPENSATION FOR LAND RESUMPTION BASED ON MARKET VALUE * * * * * *
THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, THE HON. DEREK JONES SAID TODAY IN RECENT LAND RESUMPTION CASES THE NEW RATEABLE VALUE AND ASSESSABLE VALUE OF THE PREMISES WERE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT IN ARRIVING AT THE COMPENSATION OFFERED TO THE PROPERTY OWNER.
IN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON. S.L. CHEN IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR. JONES SAID THE MEASURE OF COMPENSATION IN RESUMPTION CASES IS THE OPEN MARKET VALUE OF THE RELEVANT INTEREST, SUBJECT TO VARIOUS RULES LAID DOWN IN THE CROWN LANDS RESUMPTION ORDINANCE.
HE SAID WHEREVER POSSIBLE THE GOVERNMENT VALUER, IN ARRIVING AT HIS ESTIMATE OF MARKET VALUE, HAS REGARD TO RECENT TRANSACTIONS IN COMPARABLE PROPERTIES IN THE OPEN MARKET.
THE VALUER THUS TAKES ACCOUNT OF THE NEW RATEABLE VALUE AND ASSESSABLE VALUE TO THE EXTENT THAT THEY INFLUENCE THOSE TRANSACTIONS, MR. JONES ADDED.
HE ALSO NOTED THAT WHERE THERE HAVE BEEN NO COMPARABLE TRANSACTIONS OR THE TRANSACTIONS DO NOT FOR SOME REASONS REFLECT CURRENT MARKET VALUES, THE GOVERNMENT VALUER WILL CARRY OUT A MORE DETAILED STUDY OF RENTS RECEIVABLE AND OTHER FACTORS SUCH AS THE CURRENT RATING VALUATION BEFORE HE DECIDES ON THE PRICE WHICH THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD OFFER.
- - - - 0 ---------
LAW CONTROLLING INSURANCE BUSINESS BEING REVIEWED ******
THE REGISTRAR GENERAL IS REVIEWING THE WHOLE QUESTION OF THE LEGISLATION CONTROLLING INSURANCE’ BUS I NESS IN HONG KONG WITH A VIEW TO RATIONALISING IT-'Mlfl BRINGING IT UP TO DATE, THE ACTING FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON. DAVID JORDAN, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
HE WAS REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON. WONG LAM WHO ASKED WHETHER THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONSIDER INCREASING THE AMOUNTS OF DEPOSIT OR PAID-UP CAPITAL REQUIRED UNDER THE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANIES ORDINANCE.
MR. JORDAN SAID THAT THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT PROPOSE TO INCREASE THE DEPOSIT REQUIRED UNDER THE ORDINANCE AND ADDED: +1 CAN ASSURE MR. WONG THAT THIS IS ONLY BECAUSE IT SEEMS TO US VERY DOUBTFUL WHETHER SUCH DEPOSITS ARE A GOOD WAY OF PROTECTING THE POLICY HOLDERS.+
TURNING TO THE QUESTION OF AN INCREASE IN PAID-UP CAPITAL, MR. JORDAN POINTED OUT THAT THE PRESENT LEGISLATION INCLUDED NO SUCH REQUIREMENTS AS TO PAID-UP CAPITAL BUT THE GOVERNMENT AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE INDUSTRY WITH WHOM THE REGISTRAR GENERAL HAD DISCUSSED THIS MATTER BOTH AGREED THAT THE NEW LEGISLATION SHOULD INCLUDE SUCH REQUIREMENTS.
0 -
/2A
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
24
+DISPOSABLE+ AND +REUSABLE+ KIDNEY MACHINES EQUALLY EFFICIENT * * * *
THE KIDNEY MACHINES AT THE PRINCESS MARGARET HOSPITAL AND THOSE AT THE QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL ARE EQUALLY EFFICIENT IN THAT THEY ARE PERFORMING THEIR FUNCTIONS EFFECTIVELY AS ARTIFICIAL KIDNEYS FOR PATIENTS WHO ARE PUT ON THEM, THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, DR. THE HON. K.L. THONG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
IN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON. WONG LAM, DR. THONG SAID THAT THERE WERE TWO TYPES OF KIDNEY MACHINES IN USE IN THE TWO HOSPITALS.
+THE ESSENTIAL DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO TYPES IS THAT ONE HAS DIALYSERS, I.E. THE ELEMENT WHICH ACTS AS THE ARTIFICIAL KIDNEY IN THE MACHINE, WHICH IS DISPOSABLE, WHILE IN THE OTHER THE DIALYSER IS REUSABLE,* HE EXPLAINED.
IN THE QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL BOTH THE DISPOSABLE AND THE REUSABLE TYPES ARE BEING USED WHILE IN THE PRINCESS MARGARET HOSPITAL THE REUSABLE TYPES ARE IN OPERATION.
DR. THONG ADDED THAT IN DECIDING ON THE PARTICULAR TYPE OF MACHINES TO BE USED IN A KIDNEY UNIT, FACTORS SUCH AS THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE MACHINE, THEIR RUNNING COST, AS WELL AS THE PROFESSIONAL PREFERENCE OF THE DOCTORS CONCERNED ARE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT.
-----o------
GOVERNMENT REVIEWING PERMITTED TEACHERS QUALIFICATION *****
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAS BEGUN A REVIEW OF THE ARRANGEMENTS RELATED TO THE ISSUE OF TEACHING PERMITS, THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, THE HON. KENNETH TOPLEY TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THIS AFTERNOON.
HE WAS REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY REV. THE HON. JOYCE BENNETT. MISS BENNETT HAS ASKED WOULD THE GOVERNMENT CONSIDER RAISING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATION OF FUTURE PERMITTED TEACHERS IN ORDER TO IMPROVE THE STANDARD OF EDUCATION IN PRIVATc SCHOOLS SO THAT TEACHERS WHOSE SOLE QUALIFICATION IS FORM V COULD ONLY TEACH IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS, THOSE WHOSE HIGHEST QUALIFICATION IS FORM VI COULD ONLY TEACH UP TO FORM I-1 I I, AND THOSE WHOSE HIGHEST QUALIFICATION IS FORM VII COULD ONLY TEACH UP TO FORM V.
MR. TOPLEY REPLIED THAT THE SUGGESTION MADE BY MISS BENNETT WOULD BE CONSIDERED.
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/25......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977
TRANSFER OF ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY
*****
THE COMMISSIONER FOR TELEVISION AND FILMS WILL NOW BE THE ISSUING AUTHORITY FOR PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT PERMITS.
THIS FOLLOWS THE PASSING OF A RESOLUTION IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY TO TRANSFER THE AUTHORITY VESTED IN THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE TO THE COMMISSIONER OF TELEVISION AND FILMS, AND AN AMENDMENT TO THE PLACES OF PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT ORDINANCE.
IN MOVING THE MOTION, THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR.
F.K. LI SAID THAT THE PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT PERMITS WERE ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE TO ALLOW THE STAGING OF NIGHT CLUB FLOOR SHOWS AS WELL AS SPORTING, CULTURAL AND TRADITIONAL MAT-SHED EVENTS.
+THE PERMIT WOULD BE MORE APPROPRIATELY ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TELEVISION AND FILMS WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR OTHER ASPECTS CF CENSORSHIP AND STANDARDS OF ENTERTAINMENT,* HE SAID.
+ THE TRANSFER OF AUTHORITY WILL MAKE IT EASIER TO APPLY A CONSISTENT SET OF STANDARDS TO LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, CINEMA AND TELEVISION, AND ALSO ENABLE THE POLICE FORCE TO DEVOTE MORE RESOURCES TO THE FIGHT AGAINST CRIME.*
- - 0 -
SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISIONS
*****
THE ACTING FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON. DAVID JORDAN TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY THAT THE SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISION^ FOR THE THIRD QUARTER OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1976-77 COVERING THE PERIOD FROM. OCTOBER TO DECEMBER AMOUNTED TO 373.1 MILLION.
OF THIS SUM, $12.2 MILLION WERE REQUIRED FOR ADDITIONAL EXPENDITURE ON PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS THAT WERE ALREADY IN HAND AND $8 MILLION FOR 23 PROJECTS RECENTLY UPGRADED TO CATEGORY A OF THE PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME.
MR. JORDAN SAID, +OTHER ITEMS WORTH MENTIONING INCLUDE $20 MILLION AS A PAYMENT ON ACCOUNT MADE T'O THE URBAN COUNCIL TOWARDS THE COST OF A SALARIES REVISION FOrt STAFF OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT ENGAGED ON URBAN COUNClk'- BUSINESS, .3.6 MILLION AS THE FIRST INSTALMENT CF CAPITAL C<OSTS INVOLVED IN REPLACING AN EXISTING COMPUTER AND $4.7 MILLION FOR EQUIPMENT TO PRODUCE ALL GOVERNMENT EDUCATIONAL TELEVISION PROGRAMMES IN COLOUR.
0 - -
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 1977 - 26 -
DEMONSTRATION OF NEW FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT * * * * *
NOTE TO EDITORS:
ONE OF THE THREE 5O-METRE (164 FEET) TURNTABLE LADDERS ORDERED BY THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAS ARRIVED IN HONG KONG.
THE LADDER, MADE IN WEST GERMANY, WILL SHORTLY BE COMMISSIONED TO COPE WITH THE INCREASING FIRE FIGHTING AND RESCUE OPERATIONS.
A DEMONSTRATION ON ITS MANOEUVRE AND VERSATILITY WILL BE HELD AT THE TSIM SHA TSUI FIRE STATION AT 11 A.M.
TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER TO ATTEND THE DEMONSTRATION.
A FIREBOAT HAS BEEN ARRANGED TO TAKE PRESS REPRESENTATIVES COVERING THE EVENT TO KOWLOON TOMORROW. IT WILL LEAVE THE NORTH POINT FIRE STATION PIER AT 10.30 A.M.
MR. H.F. CHUI, SENIOR INFORMATION OFFICER, 'a ILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST THE PRESS.
0 - - - -
BILLS PASSED * * * *
NINE BILLS PASSED THEIR COMMITTEE STAGE AND THIRD READING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
THEY ARE THE ESTATE DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE INLAND REVENUE (AMENDMENT) EILL 1977, THE RATING (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE STAMP (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977. THE PRISONS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE COMPANIES (AMENDMENT) (NO.2) BILL 1977, THE SUMMARY OFFENCES (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE AGRICULTURAL PESTICIDES EILL 1977, AND THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO.2) EILL 1977.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 1977
CONTENTS PA6E N0-
PUBLIC ASKED NOT TO STORE TOO MUCH WATER OVERNIGHT . 1
BANKING DEPOSITS AT END OF APRIL ................... 3
APPLY EARLY FOR PASSPORTS ........................ 4
TENDERS CALLED FOR 300 TAXI LICENCES .•*............ 5
FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT ACQUIRES VERSATILE EQUIPMENT .. 6
GOVERNMENT TEACHER TO RECEIVE SEA RESCUE AWARDS .... 7
TSUEN WAN TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SCHEME ............... 8
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 1977
1
DO NOT STORE TOO MUCH WATER OVERNIGHT
******
THE P.W.D.’S DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES, MR. WILLIAM TUCKER, TODAY AGAIN APPEALED TO CONSUMERS NOT TO STORE TOO MUCH WATER OVERNIGHT SO AS TO AVOID WASTAGE.
SPEAKING ON THE DAY AFTER THE SUCCESSFUL LAUNCHING OF INITIAL RESTRICTIONS, HE STRESSED THAT ONLY A COMPARATIVELY SMALL PERCENTAGE OF PEOPLE ACTUALLY NEEDED TO STORE MUCH WATER, BECAUSE THEY WORKED LATE OR STARTED WORK EARLY.
+FOR MOST PEOPLE,+ HE SAID, +THERE SHOULD BE LITTLE OR NO NEED TO STORE WATER DURING THE SHORT PERIOD OF NIGHT-TIME RESTR I CT IONS.
+TOO MANY PEOPLE TEND TO STORE WATER IN BUCKETS OR BATHS, JUST BECAUSE THERE ARE RESTRICTIONS IN FORCE -- EVEN THOUGH THEY DON’T REALLY NEED THE WATER,+ HE SAID. +THEN THEY SIMPLY EMPTY THE WATER OUT THE FOLLOWING MORNING, RESULTING IN VERY CONSIDERABLE WASTAGE.*
HE EMPHASISED THAT IF SOME CONSUMERS FOUND IT NECESSARY TO STORE WATER, ONLY ENOUGH SHOULD BE STORED FOR OVERNIGHT NEEDS. +AFTER ALL, FULL SUPPLIES WILL RETURN VERY EARLY IN THE MORNING,* HE SAID.
MR. TUCKER ALSO REMINDED CONSUMERS OF THE ADVISABILITY OF BOILING ALL DRINKING WATER, PARTICULARLY WATER STORED IN CONTAINERS SUCH AS TANKS, BUCKETS OR BINS.
+ ALTHOUGH THE WATE.R SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT IS TAKING EXTRA PRECAUTIONS TO ENSURE THE PURITY OF MAINS SUPPLY -- BY SUCH MEASURES AS BY INCREASING CHLORINATION AND INTENSIFYING THE MONITORING OF THE QUALITY AT SERVICE RESERVOIRS AND CONSUMER TAPS — THERE IS ALWAYS A SLIGHT RISK OF CONTAMINATION AT TIMES WHEN SUPPLY IS CUT OFF,* HE SAID.
LAST NIGHT HONG KONG WENT THROUGH ITS FIRST NIGHT OF WATER RESTRICTIONS WITH RELATIVELY FEW PROBLEMS, SAID MR. TUCKER.
+MOST CONSUMERS APPEARED TO TAKE THE EIGHT-HOUR CUT IN SUPPLIES IN STRIDE AND ON THE WHOLE THERE SEEMED TO HAVE BEEN LITTLE INCONVENIENCE, EXCEPT IN A FEW ISOLATED CASES,* HE SAID.
+AS WAS EXPECTED, HOWEVER, WE DID RECEIVE A NUMBER OF REPORTS FROM CONSUMERS IN HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS WHO FOUND THEIR TAPS RUNNING DRY EVEN BEFORE WE HAD STARTED SWITCHING OFF THE MAINS AT 10 P.M.
+THIS IS NOT UNUSUAL AND HAPPENS EVERY TIME WATER RESTRICTIONS ARE INTRODUCED, BUT LAST NIGHT’S REPORTS WERE FEWER THAN IN PREVIOUS YEARS AND WERE CONFINED MAINLY TO SOME PREMISES IN TO KWA WAN AND KWUN TONG,* HE SAID.
/Mr. tucker .....
THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 1977
2
MR. TUCKER SAID THAT THE MAIN REASON UPPER-FLOOR TENANTS OF THE AFFECTED BUILDINGS FOUND THEIR SUPPLY RUNNING OUT EARLIER THAN 10 O’CLOCK WAS PROBABLY OVER-REACTION ON THE PART OF SOME PEOPLE WHO ALL DECIDED TO DRAW WATER TO SEE THEM THROUGH THE HOURS OF NO SUPPLY.
+IT IS ALSO POSSIBLE THAT THE PLUMBING CANNOT COPE WITH SIMULTANEOUS DEMAND FROM EVERYONE IN THE BUILDING WITH THE RESULT THAT THE TENANTS BELOW RECEIVE A GOOD SUPPLY, WHILE THOSE LIVING ON TOP MAY BE ONLY GETTING A TRICKLE OR NONE AT ALL.+
MR. TUCKER ADVISED BUILDING MANAGEMENTS TO CONTACT A LICENSED PLUMBER IF THIS PROBLEM PERSISTED IN ORDER TO MAKE A THOROUGH CHECK OF THE SYSTEM AND CORRECT ANY DEFECTS.
REFERRING TO REPORTS THAT SOME PREMISES HAD CONTINUED RECEIVING FULL SUPPLY DURING THE RESTRICTION HOURS, MR. TUCKER SAID THESE PREMISES APPARENTLY HAD BEEN DRAWING WATER FROM STORAGE TANKS ON THE ROOFS OF THE BUILDINGS.
+THE MANAGEMENTS OF THESE BUILDINGS ARE REMINDED OF THEIR RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT THESE TANKS ARE SHUT OFF DURING THE RESTRICTION HOURS,+ SAID MR. TUCKER.
IN OTHER CASES, HE SAID, A FEW PREMISES HAD ALSO RECEIVtD ALL-NIGHT SUPPLY BECAUSE OF THEIR LOCATION WITHIN INDUSTRIAL ZONES WHILE A FEW OTHERS, SUCH AS TELEVISION STATIONS, RECEIVED FULL SUPPLY BECAUSE OF THE NATURE OF THEIR OPERATIONS.
+ALSO, SOME PEOPLE UNDOUBTEDLY CONTINUED RECEIVING WATER WELL AFTER THE MAINS WERE CLOSED AS OBVIOUSLY SOME WATER REMAINS IN THE PIPING SYSTEM AND FOR A WHILE WILL CONTINUE TO FEED SOME PREMISES IN LOW-LYING AREAS,+ HE ADDED.
MR. TUCKER SAID THAT EVERY ATTEMPT WAS BEING MADE TO ENSURE THAT SUPPLIES WERE STOPPED AT 10 O’CLOCK EACH EVENING AND RESTORED PROMPTLY AT 6 O’CLOCK THE FOLLOWING MORNING.
MR. TUCKER SAID THAT WHILE EVERY ATTEMPT WAS BEING MADE TO ADHERE AS CLOSELY AS POSSIBLE TO THE APPOINTED TIMES OF SWITCHING OFF THE MAINS, CONSUMERS SHOULD NOT EXPECT THEIR SUPPLIES TO BE STOPPED AT PRECISELY 10 P.M.
+IN SOME CASES, THE SWITCH-OFF TIME WILL VARY BY MINUTES FROM PLACE TO PLACE AS OUR TURNCOCK STAFF WORK THEIR WAY FROM ONE VALVE TO THE NEXT.
+THE SAME APPLIES TO THE RESUMPTION OF SUPPLIES AT 6 A.M. AND CONSUMERS SHOULD NOT GET OVERLY CONCERNED IF THEIR SUPPLIES RETURNS A FEW MINUTES LATE,+ HE SAID.
+IN ANY EVENT, IF ANYONE EXPERIENCES ANY DIFFICULTY OR HAS ANY QUERY HE SHOULD CALL 5-726311 IF HE LIVES ON THE ISLAND OR 3-Q48261 FOR KOWLOON AND THE NE.. TERRITORIES aHICH ARE MANNED 24 HOURS A DAY,+ HE SAID.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 1977
3
BANKING STATISTICS FOR APRIL * * * *
BANKING DEPOSITS AT THE END OF APRIL 1977 STOOD AT $46,165 MILLION, COMPRISING 510,620 MILLION IN DEMAND DEPOSITS, 518.118 MILLION IN TIME DEPOSITS AND $17,427 MILLION IN SAVINGS DEPOSITS.
THERE WERE 74 LICENSED BANKS IN «ONG KONG AT THE END OF APRIL.
THE FOLLOWING TABLES RELEASED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING TODAY GIVES A DETAILED BREAKDOWN OF BANK LIABILITIES AND ASSETS AND MONEY SUPPLY FOR THE MONTH
« MILLION
LI ABILITIES
1. DEPOSITS 46,165
2. AMOUNT DUE TO BANKS ABROAD 30,252
3. OTHER LIABILITIES 8,429
TOTAL LIABILITIES 84,846
ASSETS
1. CASH 780
2. AMOUNT DUE FROM BANKS ABROAD :
(I) DEMAND AND SHORT TERM CLAIMS 28,985
(II) TIME DEPOSITS 4,039 27,424
3. LOANS AND ADVANCES :
(1) HONG KONG (II) ABROAD 4. INVESTMENTS I (1) HONG KONG (II) ABROAD 5. OTHER ASSETS : ( 1 ) HONG KONG (II) ABROAD AVERAGE LIQUIDITY DURING MONTH ^1,8^8 15,032 46,020 2 *5^3 75 3,408 3,q4o 2,465 6,314 TOTAL ASSETS 84,846 44.50* /MONEY SUPPLY
THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 1977
4
MONTH ENDFD
MONEY SUPPLY 3CTH APRIL 1077
9 MILLION
1. LEGAL TENDER COINS AND NOTES IN CIRCULATION (A) (11 COMMERCIAL BANK ISSUES 4,959
(||) GOVERNMENT ISSUES 522 5,481
2. LICENSED BANKS’ HOLDINGS OF LEGAL TENDER COINS
AND NOTES (B) 700
3. LEGAL TENDER COINS AND NOTES IN HANDS OF NON—BANK
PUBLIC (A) - (B) - (C) 4,701
4( DEMAND DEPOSITS WITH LICENSED BANKS ( D) 10,620
5. MONEY SUPPLY (DEFINITION 1) (C) + (D) - (E) 1C,3?1
6. TIME DEPOSITS WITH LICENSED BANKS (F) IP.,HR
7. SAVINGS DEPOSITS WITH LICENSED BANKS (G) 17,427
8. MONEY SUPPLY (DEFINITION 2) (E) + (F) + (G) - (H) 5O,R67
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APPLY EARLY FOR PASSPORT
*****
THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT HAS ADVISED PEOPLE INTENDING TO APPLY FOR PASSPORTS TO DO SO EARLY TO AVOID LAST MINUTE RUSH.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SAID THAT DURING THE LONG SUMMER VACATION, THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE TRAVELLING OUTSIDE HONG KONG WOULD BE MUCH INCREASED.
THERE WILL BE STUDENTS GOING ABROAD TO STUDY AND PARENTS TAKING THEIR FAMILY ON OVERSEAS TOURS, HE ADDED.
IT NORMALLY TAKES 10 DAYS TO ISSUE A BRITISH (HONG KONG) PASSPORT, BUT IT MIGHT TAKE LONGER DURING THE PEAK PER IOD, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE ALSO REMINDED STUDENTS AND VISITORS INTENDING TO GO TO THE UNITED KINGDOM TO SEND IN THEIR APPLICATION FOR VISAS IN GOOD TIME.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 1977
5
TENDERS FOR 3OQ HONG KONG AND KOWLOON TAXI LICENCES ******
THREE HUNDRED HONG KONG AND KOWLOON TAXI LICENCES ARE BEING OFFERED TO THE PUBLIC BY SEALED TENDERS.
THE TENDER WILL BE IN THE FORM OF A PREMIUM IN RESPECT OF ONE OR MORE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON TAXIS.
A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT A TENDERER MAY SUBMIT ONE TENDER FORM FOR ONE OR MORE LICENCES BUT NOT EXCEEDING 300.
HE MAY ALSO SUBMIT MORE THAN ONE TENDER FORM, BUT IF A TENDER FOR MORE THAN ONE LICENCE IS SUBMITTED, ONLY ONE FIXED UNIT PREMIUM SHOULD BE OFFERED.
+IF THE NUMBER OF AVAILABLE LICENCES IS LESS THAN THE NUMBER REQUIRED BY A TENDERER,* THE SPOKESMAN SAID, *A SMALLER NUMBER OF LICENCES MAY BE ALLOCATED TO HIM AS APPROPRIATE.*
HE SAID THAT A PUBLIC BALLOT MAY BE HELD TO DETERMINE THE ACCEPTANCE OF THOSE TENDERS IF THE UNIT PREMIA WHICH THEY OFFERED ARE IDENTICAL.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT TENDER FORMS PLUS FULL PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED IN PERSON ONLY FROM 2 P.M. TOMORROW (FRIDAY) FROM THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT’S HONG KONG LICENSING OFFICE ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE MURRAY ROAD MULTI-STOREY CAR PARK, OR FROM THE KOWLOON LICENSING OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, PUI CHING ROAD, HO MAN TIN.
COMPLETED TENDER FORMS IN DUPLICATE TOGETHER WITH THE ORIGINAL TENDER DEPOSIT RECEIPTS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN SEALED ENVELOPES, ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY, CENTRAL TENDER BOARD, AND PLACED IN THE SECRETARIAT TENDER BOX SITUATED IN THE ENTRANCE HALL ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES (MAIN WING), LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG, BEFORE NOON ON FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 1977.
LATE TENDERS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
FURTHER TAXI LICENCES ARE LIKELY TO BE ISSUED IN 1978 AFTER THE PROPOSED CONVERSION OF PUBLIC CARS WHICH WAS ANNOUNCED RECENTLY.
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/6
THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 1977 -
6
VERSATILE FIRE FIGHTING K * *
EQUIPMENT FOR F.S.D. *
A HIGHLY VERSATILE PIECE OF FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT HAS BEEN ADDED TO THE OPERATIONAL FLEET OF THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT TO COPE WITH THE INCREASING FIRE FIGHTING AND RESCUE OPERATIONS.
THE NEW EQUIPMENT, A 50-METRE (164-F00T) TURNTABLE LADDER, IS THE FIRST CONSIGNMENT OF AN ORDER FOR THREE SUCH EQUIPMENT PLACED BY THE DEPARTMENT WITH A WEST GERMAN COMPANY IN 1975.
A FIRE SERVICES SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE SECOND APPLIANCE IS DUE TO ARRIVE IN ABOUT A WEEK’S TIME AND THE THIRD TWO WEEKS THEREAFTER.
THE TURNTABLE LADDER, TOGETHER WITH VEHICLE CHASSIS AND ENGINES, COSTS ABOUT $1.3 MILLION. IT HAS A SEATING CAPACITY FOR THREE PERSONS.
THE LADDER CONSISTS OF SIX SECTIONS AND IS HYDRAULICALLY AND ELECTRONICALLY OPERATED. THE INDIVIDUAL SECTIONS ARE GUIDED WITHIN THEMSELVES BY MEANS OF ROLLERS SO AS TO REDUCE FRICTION AND TO ENSURE THAT THEY RUN SMOOTHLY UNDER ALL CONDITIONS.
THE MAXIMUM EXTENSION IS 50 METRES AND THE MAXIMUM ELEVATION IS 72 DEGREES. IT WILL BE POSSIBLE TO ROTATE THE LADDER THROUGH 360 DEGREES.
THE NEW APPLIANCE HAS A NUMBER OF FEATURES, INCLUDING
AN ELEVATOR CAPABLE OF CARRYING TWO FIREMEN OR 180 KG (APPROX IMATELY 400 POUNDS) AT ABOUT ONE METRE PER SECOND. IT IS RAISED AND LOWERED BY WAY OF A STEEL CABLE. IF THIS CABLE SHOULD TEAR OR THE MECHANISM FAIL, SPRING PRESSURE WILL OPERATE THE +ECCENTRIC STOPPING* CAMS, WHICH LOCK IN SUCH A MANNER THAT THE ELEVATOR WILL COME TO A STANDSTILL.
COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE OPERATOR ON THE GROUND AND THE FIREMEN AT THE HEAD OF THE LADDER IS FACILITATED BY THE INTERCOMMUNICATION SYSTEM. THROUGH THIS SYSTEM, THE MEN AT THE TOP CAN REPORT THEIR OBSERVATIONS DOWN TO THE CONTROL POSITION CONSTANTLY.
THE APPLIANCE IS ALSO FITTED WITH A REMOTE CONTROL UNIT WHICH ENABLES THE OPERATOR TO EFFECT LADDER MOVEMENTS FROM A DIFFERENT LOCATION.
ANOTHER USEFUL FEATURE OF THE LADDER IS ITS HYDRAULICALLY-POWERED LIFTING DEVICE WHICH HAS A MAXIMUM LIFTING CAPACITY OF 3,000 KG (APPROXIMATELY 6,630 POUNDS). IT CAN BE USED FOR LIFTING SMALL LOADS IN CASE OF ACCIDENTS OR OTHER CONTINGENCIES.
AT PRESENT, THE LONGEST LADDER IN SERVICE IS 30 METRES (100 FEET) AND CAN REACH UP TO THE NINTH FLOOR OF A BUILDING.
ITH THIS NEW EQUIPMENT WE WILL BE ABLE TO EXTEND CUR LADDER OPERATIONS UP TO THE 15TH FLOORS,* i HE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 1977
7
GOVERNMENT TEACHER TO RECEIVE SEA RESCUE AWARDS FROM TOPLEY * * * * *
THE GALLANT ACTION OF A GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHER, MISS LEE SIU-LAN, IN RESCUING TWO PREGNANT WOMEN ON MARCH 2 FOLLOWING A COLLISION BETWEEN A FERRY AND A HYDROFOIL OFF CHEUNG CHAU, HAS BEEN RECOGNISED BY THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR. KENNETH TOPLEY.
MISS LEE, A SPORTS MISTRESS AND A TEACHER OF CHINESE LANGUAGE AT THE CHEUNG CHAU GOVERNMENT MIDDLE SCHOOL, WILL BE PRESENTED WITH THE DIRECTOR’S LETTER OF APPRECIATION AND THE HONG KONG LIFE GUARD CLUB’S +HONG KONG RESCUE STAR+ BY MR. TOPLEY TOMORROW EVENING.
THE PRESENTATION WILL BE MADE BEFORE A DINNER GIVEN IN HER HONOUR BY THE CLUB.
MISS LEE AND THE TWO PREGNANT WOMEN, BOTH OF WHOM ARE HER COLLEAGUES, WERE ON BOARD THE FERRY WHEN THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED. SHE OBTAINED LIFE JACKETS FOR HER COLLEAGUES, BOTH NON-SWIMMERS, AND TOGETHER WITH THEM JUMPED INTO THE WATER BEFORE THE FERRY +MAN TAK+ SANK.
MISS LEE THEN TOOK HER COLLEAGUES IN TOW AND SWAM TOWARDS AN APPROACHING FERRY, +MAN TAO+, ON WHICH THEY RETURNED TO HONG KONG.
ON MAY 23 MISS LEE RECEIVED THE HONG KONG LIFE GUARD CLUB’S +VALUABLE SERVICES AWARD+ FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL, MR. A. DE 0. SALES.
MISS LEE JOINED THE CHEUNG CHAU GOVERNMENT MIDDLE SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER 1976 AFTER TEACHING FOR ONE YEAR AT THE SHUN TAK FRATERNAL ASSOCIATION SEAWARD WOO COLLEGE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY AT THE CLUE HOUSE OF THE HONG KONG LIFE GUARD CLUB AT REPULSE BAY AT 7.30 P.M. TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
AMONG THE PEOPLE WHO WILL ATTEND THE CEREMONY ARE
MRS. TOPLEY, MR. CHOW YAU, CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG LIFE GUARD CLUB, MR. CHAN KANG-FOUT, CHAIRMAN OF THE CLUE’S WATER SAFETY CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE, AND SENIOR OFFICIALS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
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/8 ....'
THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 1977
8
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SCHEME IN * * *
TSUEN WAN CENTRAL AREAS *
A NUMBER OF TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL COME INTO EFFECT FROM 10 A.M. ON MONDAY (JUNE 6), IN TSUEN WAN IN ORDER TO IMPROVE THE TRAFFIC CONDITION IN THE CENTRAL PART OF TSUEN WAN TOWN, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY.
THE NEW MEASURES ARE AS FOLLOWS »
* HAM TIN STREET BETWEEN YEUNG UK ROAD AND SHA TSUI ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND’
* CHUEN LUNG STREET BETWEEN YEUNG UK ROAD AND HO PUI STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND’
# HO PUI STREET BETWEEN CHUNG ON STREET AND SAI LAU STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY WESTBOUND’
* SAN TSUEN STREET BETWEEN TAI UK STREET AND WO TIK STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY WESTBOUND’ AND
M 24-HOUR CLEARWAY RESTRICTION WILL BE IMPOSED ON PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES ON THE ROADS MENTIONED BELOW : -
(A) CHUNG ON STREET’
(B) SHA TSUI ROAD FROM TEXACO ROAD TO TAI HO ROAD’
(C) TEXACO ROAD BETWEEN CASTLE PEAK ROAD AND SHA TSUI ROAD
(D) CHUEN LUNG STREET BETWEEN HO PUI STREET AND YEUNG UK ROAD= AND
(E) WO TIK STREET BETWEEN HO PUI STREET AND YEUNG UK ROAD.
THE EXISTING PARKING FACILITIES IN THE AREA WILL ALSO BE RE-ARRANGED TO SUIT THE NEW TRAFFIC CIRCULATIONS.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL EE ERECTED TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
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PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 1977
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
SIR MURRAY OPENS RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE EXHIBITION ... 1
$26.3 MILLION SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT FOR TUEN MUN ............. 2
TEACHER AWARDED +HONG KONG RESCUE STAR+ ....................... 3
COMMODITIES TRADING COMMISSION MEMBERSHIP ANNOUNCED ........... 4
WORKSHOP ON INEXPENSIVE PORTABLE GENERATOR .................... 4
CHI SHING LANE TENANTS URGED TO ACCEPT OFFER SOON ............. 5
EDINBURGH PLACE TO BE CLOSED FOR SPORTS DISPLAY ............... 6
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO FORM OF ADOPTION CONSENT ................ 7
TRANSPORT OFFICIAL TAKES PART IN INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ........ 8
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 1977
1
SIR MURRAY OPENS RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE EXHIBITION ******
THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, SAID TODAY HE WAS SURE THAT THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE, LIKE OTHERS CATERING FOR • YOUTH AND SPORT, WOULD GROW RAPIDLY IN THE YEARS AHEAD AND THAT IT IS OF GREAT SOCIAL VALUE.
SIR MURRAY WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE SECOND ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION OF THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE AT THE CITY HALL.
THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF SIR MURRAY’S SPEECH »
+THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE, WHICH IS MOUNTING THIS EXHIBITION, WAS SET UP ONLY 2-1/2 YEARS AGO. THIS WAS DONE ON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE COUNCIL FOR RECREATION AND SPORT AND THE SERVICE’S CONNECTION WITH THE COUNCIL CONTINUES TO BE CLOSE. IT WAS AN EXCELLENT IDEA AND THE IMMEDIATE RESPONSE OF THE PUBLIC SHOWED THAT IT WAS MEETING A LONG FELT NEED.
+SINCE THEN, UNDER ENERGETIC LEADERSHIP, IT HAS DEVELOPED WITH REMARKABLE SPEED AND NOW COVERS 17 DISTRICTS AND OFFERS A WIDE VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES IN WHICH MANY THOUSANDS PARTICIPATE EVERY DAY.
+IN ADDITION TO ITS OWN ACTIVITIES, THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE WORKS CLOSELY WITH THE URBAN COUNCIL IN JOINTLY PROMOTING AND ORGANIZING NUMEROUS EVENTS IN THE URBAN AREAS. IT ALSO HAS CLOSE WORKING RELATIONS WITH THE NATIONAL SPORTS ASSOCIATIONS IN PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTING SPORTS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES.
+THE OBJECT OF THIS EXHIBITION IS TO SHOW THE PUBLIC WHAT THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE IS DOING, WHAT ACTIVITIES IT CAN OFFER, AND WHO TO CONTACT FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THEM.
+1 AM SURE THAT THIS SERVICE, LIKE OTHERS CATERING FOR YOUTH AND SPORT, WILL GROW RAPIDLY IN THE YEARS AHEAD AND THAT IT IS OF GREAT SOCIAL VALUE.
+1 NOW TAKE PLEASURE IN OFFICIALLY DECLARING OPEN THE SECOND ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION OF THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE.*
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FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 1977
- 2 -
MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT FOR TUEN MUN *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS EMBARKING ON A $26.3 MILLION PROJECT TO IMPROVE SEWAGE TREATMENT FACILITIES IN TUEN MUN IN ORDER TO COPE WITH THE RAPID DEVELOPMENT OF THE NEW TOWN.
SITE FORMATION WORK HAS JUST STARTED FOR A PERMANENT SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT AT PILLAR POINT AND IT WILL BE COMPLETED IN MID-1978.
IMMEDIATELY AFTER THAT WORK WILL BEGIN ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE PLANT ITSELF WHICH IS EXPECTED TO COME INTO OPERATION BY 1979-80.
A NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY THAT WITH THE CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT OF TUEN MUN, THE EXISTING SCREENING PLANT AND TEMPORARY SUBMARINE OUTFALL AT PAK KOK WOULD BECOME INADEQUATE.
♦IT IS THEREFORE NECESSARY TO CONSTRUCT THE PERMANENT OUTFALL AT PILLAR POINT WITH SUFFICENT CAPACITY TO CATER FOR THE FULL DEVELOPMENT OF THE NEW TOWN.+ HE SAID.
AS PART OF THE PROJECT, HE SAID, THE PAK KOK PLAN WILL BE CONVERTED SO AS TO PROVIDE PUMPING FACILITIES TO CARRY SEWAGE FROM THE NEW TOWN TO THE PERMANENT SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS.
THE PROJECT WILL INVOLVE THE RESUMPTION OF ABOUT 14,940 SQ. M. OF AGRICULTURAL LAND. ONE MONTH’S NOTICE OF THE RESUMPTION WAS PUBLISHED IN TODAY’S GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT NO BUILDING LAND WAS INVOLVED AND THAT NO FAMILIES WOULD BE DISPLACED AS A RESULT OF THE RESUMPTION
THE GOVERNMENT WILL PAY COMPENSATION FOR CROPS, GRAVES AND BONE-POTS, AS WELL AS EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCE TO CULTIVATORS. LAND OWNERS WILL BE OFFERED EITHER CASH COMPENSATION OR LAND EXCHANGE ENTITLEMENT DOCUMENTS.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 1977 - 3 -
TOPLEY PRAISES TEACHER FOR SEA RESCUES ******
THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR. KENNETH TOPLEY, THIS EVENING PRAISED MISS LEE SIU-LAN, A GOVERNMENT TEACHER, FOR RESCUING TWO PREGNANT WOMEN AFTER A COLLISION BETWEEN A FERRY AND A HYDROFOIL OFF CHEUNG CHAU IN MARCH.
MORE THAN 100 PEOPLE HAD TO BE RESCUED FROM THE SEA AS A RESULT OF THE FERRY SINKING AND ONE OF THE MOST OUTSTANDING RESCUES WAS PERFORMED BY MISS LEE, A SPORTS MISTRESS AND A TEACHER OF CHINESE LANGUAGE AT THE CHEUNG CHAU GOVERNMENT MIDDLE SCHOOL.
MR. TOPLEY PRESENTED A LETTER OF APPRECIATION AND THE HONG KONG LIFE GUARD CLUB’S +HONG KONG RESCUE STAR+ TO MISS LEE AS A TOKEN OF APPRECIATION FOR HER GALLANT ACTION.
SPEAKING AT A CEREMONY PRECEDING A DINNER HELD IN HER HONOUR BY THE CLUB, MR. TOPLEY SAID: +1 CAN ONLY SPEAK WITH THE HIGHEST PRAISE FOR MISS LEE’S SELFLESS ACTION AND SAY HOW PROUD I AM ON BEHALF OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, TO BE ABLE TO PUBLICLY SAY THANK YOU TO HER.+
THE DIRECTOR THANKED THE HONG KONG LIFE GUARD CLUB, WHO WORK VERY CLOSELY WITH OFFICERS FROM THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, IN RUNNING ACTIVITIES AIMED AT SAVING THE LIVES OF PEOPLE IN THE WATER.
♦ THIS KIND OF CO-OPERATION WILL ALWAYS RECEIVE MY FULLEST SUPPORT AND IT PLEASES ME GREATLY TO KNOW THAT SO MANY TEACHERS AND STUDENTS IN SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES OF EDUCATION ARE QUALIFIED LIFE-SAVERS BECAUSE OF THIS CO-OPERATION,+ MR. TOPLEY SAID.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 1977
4
MEMBERS OF COMMODITIES TRADING COMMISSION ******
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY THE COMPOSITION OF THE COMMODITIES TRADING COMMISSION.
MR. Y.H. KAN, C.B.E., F.I.B., J.P., CHAIRMAN OF THE SECURITIES COMMISSION, IS BY LAW THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMODITIES TRADING COMMISSION.
THE GOVERNOR, IN EXERCISE OF THE POWERS CONFERRED BY SECTION 4(1)(C) OF THE COMMODITIES TRADING ORDINANCE, HAS APPOINTED THE FOLLOWING PERSONS TO SERVE AS MEMBERS OF THE COMMODITIES TRADING COMMISSION FOR A PERIOD OF TWO YEARSi
MISS SALLY AW SIAN, O.B.E., J.P.
MR. GEORGE IAN NCCABE, F.C.C.A., F.H.K.S.A.
MR. POON WING-CFEUNG, LL.M., F.A.S.A., F.C.I.S., J.P.
MR. FREDERICK LANGTREE WALKER
MR. WONG CHUNG-FIN, M.A., LL.B., J.P.
THE REMAINING MEMBER IS THE COMMISSIONER FOR COMMODITIES TRADING (WHO IS THE COMMISSIONER FOR SECURITIES).
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TEACHERS LEARN TO CONSTRUCT PORTABLE GENERATOR
* * * *
ABOUT 50 SCIENCE TEACHERS AND LABORATORY TECHNICIANS WILL ATTEND A WORKSHOP ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF A VAN DER GRAAFF GENERATOR TOMORROW (SATURDAY), AT THE JOCKEY CLUB GOVERNMENT SECONDARY TECHNICAL SCHOOL IN OXFORD ROAD, KOWLOON TONG.
THE WORKSHOP IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE SCIENCE SUBJECTS SECTION, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION FOR SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS EDUCATION.
PARTICIPANTS WILL LEARN THE TECHNIQUES OF CONSTRUCTING THE SIMPLE PORTABLE GENERATOR FROM INEXPENSIVE MATERIALS.
THE FINISHED PRODUCT WILL BE FUNCTIONAL UNDER HUMID CONDITIONS AND WILL BE ABLE TO PERFORM ALMOST ALL EXPERIMENTS DEMONSTRABLE BY GENERATORS OF THE SAME TYPE MANUFACTURED COMMERCIALLY.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 1977
5
CHI SHING LANE TENANTS AGAIN URGED TO ACCEPT GOVT. OFFER SOON ******
THE REMAINING OCCUPANTS AT NOS. 1-3, CHI SHING LANE, WANCHAI, ARE AGAIN BEING URGED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO ACCEPT OFFERS OF ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION IN PUBLIC HOUSING WITHOUT DELAY.
THE BUILDINGS, ALONG WITH SEVEN OTHERS IN THE SAME BLOCK AT NOS. 5-9 AND NOS. 2-8, CHI SHING LANE WERE RESUMED BY GOVERNMENT UNDER THE CROWN LANDS RESUMPTION ORDINANCE IN JUNE LAST YEAR. THEY ARE REQUIRED TO BE CLEARED TO MAKE WAY FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW MARKET TO REPLACE THE EXISTING INADEQUATE FACILITIES AT CANAL ROAD AND THE EXTENSION OF THE CANAL ROAD FLYOVER TO LINK UP WITH THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL.
OF THE 68 FAMILIES LIVING IN THE BUILDINGS AFFECTED, 58 OF THEM COMPRISING 204 PERSONS HAVE ACCEPTED EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS AND ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION OFFERED BY GOVERNMENT, AND NEARLY ALL OF THEM HAVE ALREADY MOVED OUT TO THEIR NEW HOMES IN PUBLIC HOUSING ES"ATES.
FOR THE SHOPS AUD WORKSHOPS ON THE GROUND FLOORS, APART FROM ONE WORKSHOP FOF' WHICH REMOVAL ARRANGEMENTS ARE STILL BEING MADE, ALL THE OTHERS HAVE HANDED BACK THEIR PREMISES TO GOVERNMENT AFTER HAVING ACCEPTED EX-GRATIA PAYMENT OR ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION IN FLATTED FACTORY ESTATES.
THE REMAINING TEN FAMILIES COMPRISING 32 PERSONS ARE MOSTLY FORMER OWNER-OCCUPIERS OF THE BUILDINGS AT NOS. 1-3, CHI SHING LANE.
THEY PETITIONED THE GOVERNOR ON MAY 20 REGARDING THE AMOUNTS OF COMPENSATION AWARDED FOR THE PROPERTIES.
IN A REPLY TO TEEIR PETITION DATED JUNE 1, THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT HAS POINTED OUT THAT THE OWNERS OF THE BUILDINGS WERE ORIGINALLY OFFERED COMPENSATION BY GOVERNMENT BASED ON ITS ASSESSMENT OF THE VALUE OF THE PROPERTIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CROWN LANDS RESUMPTION ORDINANCE.
SINCE THE OFFER WAS REJECTED BY THEM, THE MATTER WAS REFERRED TO THE LANDS TRIBUNAL FOR ITS CONSIDERATION. THE TRIBUNAL EXAMINED INDEPENDENTLY BOTH THE GOVERNMENT’S ASSESSMENT AND THE CLAIMS SUBMITTED BY THE OWNERS AND MADE ITS AWARDS.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT REPLY ALSO SAID: +THESE AWARDS ARE NOW BINDING ON THE GOVERNMENT WHICH WILL PAY THE AMOUNTS AWARDED, PLUS ANY INTEREST, CALCULATED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CROWN LANDS RESUMPTION ORDINANCE, WHICH HAS ACCRUED SINCE JULY 1976.+
/the compensation
6
FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 1977
THE COMPENSATION AWARDED BY THE LANDS TRIBUNAL TO THE OWNERS IS BETWEEN $74,000 AND $114,000 PER FLAT, DEPENDING ON VALUATION . FACTORS IN EACH INDIVIDUAL CASE.
IN ADDITION TO THE STATUTORY AWARDS, OWNER-OCCUPIERS OF THE BUILDINGS HAVE ALSO BEEN OFFERED EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS OF BETWEEN $3,000 AND $13,000 TO HELP THEM WITH THEIR REMOVAL.
WHERE ELIGIBLE, THEY ARE ALSO OFFERED ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES.
A FINAL PERIOD OF TWO WEEKS HAS BEEN ALLOWED FOR THE REMAINING OCCUPANTS TO VACATE THEIR PREMISES. THEY CANNOT BE GIVEN MORE TIME BECAUSE THIS WOULD RESULT IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW CANAL ROAD MARKET BEING DELAYED AND COULD AFFECT THE TIMETABLE FOR THE FLYOVER EXTENSION PROJECT.
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TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF EDINBURGH PLACE
* * *
THE SECTION OF EDINBURGH PLACE FRONTING QUEEN’S PIER WILL BE CLOSED TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC BETWEEN 9.00 A.M. AND 12.30 P.M. ON SUNDAY (JUNE 5), THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAS ANNOUNCED.
THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE IS IN CONNECTION WITH THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE EXHIBITION ORGANISED BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE PUT UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 1977
7
AMENDMENT TO ADOPTION ORDINANCE PROPOSED * * * M *
CONSENT TO ADOPTION MAY BE GIVEN BY THE NATURAL PARENT OF A CHILD IN A NEW GENERAL FORM IF THE ADOPTION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977 IS PASSED INTO LAW.
UNDER THE AMENDING BILL, WHICH IS PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY, IF THE CONSENT IS NOT REVOKED WITHIN THREE MONTHS, ADOPTION PROCEDURES MAY PROCEED WITHOUT FURTHER REFERENCE TO THE PARENT.
AFTER THREE MONTHS, IF AN ADOPTION ORDER HAS NOT YET BEEN ISSUED, THE CONSENT MAY ONLY BE REVOKED BY ORDER OF THE COURT ON THE APPLICATION OF THE PARENT.
THE PROPOSED GENERAL FORM OF CONSENT WILL NOT REPLACE THE EXISTING STANDARD FORM WHICH RELATES TO SPECIFIC ADOPTION PROCEDURES, BUT WILL MERELY PROVIDE AN ALTERNATIVE FORM WHEREBY A PARENT MAY, BEFORE ANY PROCEEDINGS ARE ANTICIPATED, INDICATE GENERALLY A CONSENT TO ANY SUBSEQUENT ADOPTION OF THE CHILD.
THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE WILL USE HIS DISCRETION TO CONSIDER WHICH OF THE TWO FORMS OF CONSENT THE NATURAL PARENT WILL GIVE.
OTHER PROVISIONS IN THE AMENDING BILL WILL ENABLE THE COURT TO CONSIDER, BEFORE MAKING AN ADOPTION ORDER, WHETHER THE REAL IDENTITY OF THE CHILD SHOULD BE DISCLOSED TO HIM, WITH REGARD TO THE V EWS OF THE ADOPTER, THE OPINION OF THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE AND THE AGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE CHILD.
THE COURT WILL ALSO BE ABLE TO MAKE AMENDMENTS TO AN ADOPTION ORDER AND THE ADOPTED CHILDREN REGISTER WHERE THERE HAS BEEN A CHANGE IN THE NAME OF THE ADOPTED CHILD, MADE WITHIN ONE YEAR OF THE ORDER.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 1977
- 8 -
SENIOR TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT OFFICIAL ATTENDS INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ******
THE CHIEF TRANSPORT OFFICER OF THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, MR. PETER MILLER, LEAVES FOR GERMANY THIS (FRIDAY) EVENING TO REPRESENT THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AT AN INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT SEMINAR.
THE TWO-WEEK SEMINAR, DEALING WITH +NEW APPROACHES TO LOCAL TRANSPORT PLANNING IN CONURBATIONS*, IS SPONSORED BY THE GERMAN FOUNDATION FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT.
IT WILL BE HELD IN WEST BERLIN, HAMBURG AND COLOGNE AND ATTENDED BY DELEGATES FROM ABOUT 20 CAPITAL CITIES INCLUDING REPRESENTATIVES FROM SINGAPORE, BANGKOK AND MANILA.
MR. MILLER WILL BE PRESENTING A REPORT ON HONG KONG DEALING WITH TRANSPORT PLANNING AS A MEANS OF + INFLUENCING FUTURE URBAN DEVELOPMENT, LEVELS OF SERVICE BY VARIOUS TRANSPORT MODES AND TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SCHEMES DESIGNED TO EQUATE CONFLICTING DEMANDS BY PRIVATE AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT WITHIN THE CONSTRAINTS OF LIMITED ROAD AND RAIL CAPACITY.*
THE SEMINAR WILL PROVIDE A VALUABLE FORUM FOR THE EXCHANGE OF WORLD-WIDE TECHNICAL INFORMATION IN RELATION TO IMPROVING TRANSPORT STANDARDS, RESIDENTIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AND AN ECONOMIC APPRAISAL OF TRANSPORT RESTRAINT POLICIES.
MR. MILLER HAS BEEN CHIEF TRANSPORT OFFICER IN HONG KONG SINCE FEBRUARY 1972. HE JOINED THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT DIRECT FROM THE SELNEC PASSENGER TRANSPORT EXECUTIVE IN ENGLAND AND PREVIOUSLY WORKED AS A TRAFFIC ADVISOR TO THE SIERRA LEONE ROAD TRANSPORT CORPORATION IN WEST AFRICA. HE IS CURRENTLY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG SECTION OF THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF TRNASPORT.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
DETENTION CENTRE PROGRAMME SUCCESSFUL ..................... 1
600 APPLIED FOR UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE ................. 2
SOCIAL EDUCATION IS ESSENTIAL ............................. 3
+HONG KONG - BRAY’S EYE VIEW* ...........................
SPORTS EVENT AT CITY HALL ................................. 5
f
J
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
SATURDAY, JUNE 4,' 1977
1
DETENTION CENTRE PROGRAMME A GOOD PIECE OF PRISON REFORM ******
THERE HAS BEEN A DECREASE IN THE PERCENTAGE OF OFFENDERS UNDER 21, DUE IN PART TO THE SUCCESS OF THE DETENTION CENTRE PROGRAMME WHICH HAS DEALT WITH OVER 2,300 YOUNG OFFENDERS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING, MR. J.B. HAWTHORNE AT THE PASSING-OUT PARADE OF 79 OFFICERS AND ASSISTANT OFFICERS OF THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT AT ITS STAFF TRAINING INSTITUTE IN STANLEY THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING.
MR. HAWTHORNE POINTED OUT THAT THE DROP HAS BEEN FROM OVER 22 PER CENT AT THE BEGINNING OF 1974 TO ABOUT 15 PER CENT AT THE END OF MARCH THIS YEAR.
HE SAID THE DETENTION CENTRE PROGRAMME DEALS WITH CERTAIN TYPES OF YOUNG OFFENDERS IN A MUCH SHORTER PERIOD AND HE DESCRIBED THE SYSTEM AS A SUCCESSFUL PIECE OF PRISON REFORM.
THE DIRECTOR RECALLED THAT IN THE TWO YEARS 1974-75, THE PRISON POPULATION HAD RISEN RAPIDLY AND CAUSED PUBLIC CONCERN, BUT 1976-77 HAS SO FAR SEEN A LEVELLING OUT OF THE PRISON POPULATION.
TACKLING OF THE DRUG PROBLEM, MR. HAWTHORNE CONTINUED, HAS BEEN ANOTHER SUCCESS.
IN SPITE OF THE VERY LARGE NUMBERS OF ADDICTS WHO ARE STILL ADMITTED INTO PENAL INSTITUTIONS, MANY DIFFERENT MEASURES HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED IN RECENT YEARS AND HAVE PROVEN SUCCESSFUL, HE SAID.
NOT THE LEAST OF THESE HAVE BEEN THE ESTABLISHMENT OF FIVE LABORATORIES WHICH COMPLETED NEARLY 350,000 TESTS AND HAVE THUS PROVIDED A MONITORING SERVICE WITHIN THE PRISON POPULATION AND FOR THOSE UNDER AFTER CARE, HE ADDED.
MR. HAWTHORNE POINTED OUT TWO FURTHER IMPORTANT ACHIEVEMENTS WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT.
+FIRST, THE SETTING UP OF STAFF CONSULTATIVE COUNCILS TO PROVIDE A FORUM FOR STAFF AT BOTH JUNIOR AND SENIOR LEVELS TO AIR THEIR VIEWS, AND SECOND, THE PRISONS SERVICE SWINGS WITH THE TIMES AND ACQUIRES A NEW SUMMER UNIFORM,* HE SAID.
THE DIRECTOR ALSO NOTED THAT THE PRISONS DEPARTMENT WAS PRESSING FORWARD WITH ITS PROGRAMME OF REHABILITATION: +THE AFTERCARE UNIT WITHIN THE DETENTION CENTRE HAS A BIG ROLE TO PLAY AND IT HAS CURRENTLY A CASE LOAD OF ABOUT 3,000 INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE UNDER AFTER-CARE SUPERVISION OF VARIOUS KINDS. THEREFORE, THE PRISONS SERVICE IS ALSO MINDFUL OF ITS NEED TO PROTECT SOCIETY.*
HE TOLD THE NEW RECRUITS THAT THEY COULD LOOK FORWARD TO A WORTHWHILE AND TOTALLY ABSORBING CAREER.
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/2 ....
SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 1977
2
600 APPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE FROM UNEMPLOYED X X X X X
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT HAS RECEIVED ABOUT 600 APPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE FROM UNEMPLOYED ABLE-BODIED PEOPLE BETWEEN 15 AND 55 YEARS OF AGE SINCE APRIL 1.
OF THESE, 144 WERE FROM SINGLE PERSONS ON THEIR OWN AND 460 FROM PEOPLE LIVING WITH THEIR FAMILIES. ALL OF THEM HAVE BEEN REFERRED TO THE LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
OF THE 394 APPLICANTS WHO TURNED UP AT THE LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE, 54 HAVE ALREADY TAKEN UP EMPLOYMENT WHILE 25 HAVE FOUND WORK OF THEIR OWN ACCORD.
THOSE WHO DID NOT REPORT TO THE LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE WITHOUT GOOD REASONS WOULD BE DISQUALIFIED FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE.
MR. LU YU-HUA, HEAD OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY DIVISION OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, SAID THAT THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED SO FAR HAD NOT BEEN MANY. +THIS MAY BE DUE TO THE PRESENT ECONOMIC SITUATION IN HONG KONG,+ HE EXPLAINED.
TURNING TO THE PAYMENT OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE, MR. LU SAIDi +IF THE APPLICANTS FAIL TO OBTAIN EMPLOYMENT FOR ONE MONTH AFTER THE DATE OF APPLICATION, THEIR MONTHLY ENTITLEMENT WILL START FROM THE FIRST DAY OF THE FOLLOWING MONTH.
+HOWEVER, PAYMENT OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE TO MEMBERS OF HIS FAMILY WILL BE CALCULATED FROM THE DATE OF APPLICATION.*
COPIES OF A LEAFLET EXPLAINING THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME ARE OBTAINABLE FROM ALL CITY DISTRICT OFFICES IN THE URBAN AREA, DISTRICT OFFICES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, FAMILY SERVICES CENTRES AND SOCIAL SECURITY FIELD UNITS OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
THE ADDRESSES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF ALL THE 26 SOCIAL SECURITY FIELD UNITS ARE ALSO LISTED IN THE LEAFLET.
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SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 1977
5
INCULCATION OF SOCIAL EDUCATION IS ESSENTIAL
******
THE INCULCATION OF SOCIAL EDUCATION THROUGH THE LEARNING OF SOCIAL STUDIES IN SCHOOLS IS ESSENTIAL IN TURNING OUT PUPILS WHO WILL ONE DAY AS ADULTS PLAY A FULLER AND MORE ACTIVE PART IN THE • AFFAIRS OF THEIR OWN COMMUNITY, THE DEPUTY CHIEF INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS, MRS. LOUISE MOK, SAID THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING.
MRS. MOK WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE TWO-DAY SOCIAL STUDIES EXHIBITION AT MUNSANG COLLEGE IN KOWLOON CITY. THE COLLEGE IS ONE OF THE 15 MONITORED SCHOOLS IMPLEMENTING THE PROVISIONAL SYLLABUS FOR SOCIAL STUDIES ON A TRIAL BASIS. ANOTHER 28 SECONDARY SCHOOLS ARE IMPLEMENTING THE PROVISIONAL SYLLABUS ON A VOLUNTARY BASIS.
SECONDARY PUPILS, MRS. MOK SAID, SHOULD BE EQUIPPED WITH THE NECESSARY SOCIAL SKILLS TO MEET THE CHALLENGE OF THE COMPLEXITIES OF EXISTENCE IN A MODERN URBAN ENVIRONMENT AND BE WELL PREPARED FOR SOCIAL LIVING.
+OUR THREE-YEAR SOCIAL STUDIES COURSE IS CENTRED ON MAN AND HIS ENVIRONMENT, DESIGNED TO PROMOTE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF OUR LOCAL ENVIRONMENT AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH THE REST OF THE WORLD.
+THE APPROPRIATE APPROACH IN TEACHING THIS SUBJECT IS THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF PHYSICAL, INTELLECTUAL AND SOCIAL SKILLS, THE DEVELOPMENT OF ATTITUDES AND VALUES, AS WELL AS THE ACQUISITION OF KNOWLEDGE, IN THE MAIN, FORMING ACCURATE JUDGEMENT AND SOLVING PROBLEMS.
+FROM THE ACTIVITIES OF THE PUPILS DURING THE COURSE OF THE YEAR I HAVE FOUND MANY INTERESTING AND LIVELY PROJECTS WHICH ARE DISPLAYED IN THIS EXHIBITION. THE WORK HAS DEMONSTRATED THAT THE PUPILS HAVE NOT ONLY PURSUED SELF-INQUIRY AND ACTIVITY METHODS BUT ALSO SHOWN WORTHWHILE INTERESTS IN HUMAN AFFAIRS AND CO-OPERATIVE ATTITUDES,+ MRS. MOK SAID.
THE DEPUTY CHIEF INSPECTOR POINTED OUT THAT THE NEW SUBJECT OF SOCIAL STUDIES WAS MORE THAN HALF ITS WAY TOWARDS THE THREE-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION TARGET.
MRS. MOK ADDED x +YOU WILL PROBABLY AGREE WITH ME THAT SOCIAL STUDIES IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IS SOMETHING MORE THAN A NEW SUBJECT- IT REPRESENTS A NEW MODE OF INQUIRY NOT ONLY EXPOSED TO PUPILS BUT TO TEACHERS AS WELL.
+THE INTRODUCTION OF SOCIAL STUDIES IS NOT MEANT TO DEPRECATE THE DISCIPLINES OF HISTORY, GEOGRAPHY, E.P.A. AND HEALTH EDUCATION TREATED AS SEPARATE SUBJECTS- ON THE CONTRARY THE SPIRIT OF THESE SOCIAL SUBJECTS IS BEING KEPT ALIVE IN SOCIAL STUDIES AS AN INTEGRAL WHOLE, WHICH SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED THROUGH A NEW PROCESS OF ’LEARNING BY EXPERIENCE’.
/+PERHAPS
I
SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 1977 - 4 -
+PERHAPS THE MOST IMPRESSIVE FEATURE, AND PERHAPS THE MOST OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT OF THE PAST YEAR WAS NOT IN HOW TACTFULLY THE SUBJECT WAS TAUGHT, BUT IN THE ENTHUSIASM AND CONFIDENCE YOU HAVE SHOWN AS TEACHERS OF A PILOT SCHOOL AND THE CO-OPERATION AND EFFORTS DISPLAYED BY YOUR PUPILS.*
SHE SAID THAT INSPECTORS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WERE ALWAYS READY TO HELP TEACHERS WHENEVER THEY REQUIRED ASSISTANCE.
MRS. MOK THANKED THE TEACHERS AND THE SCHOOLS FOR EVERYTHING THEY HAD DONE FOR THE SUBJECT AND ENLISTED THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT.
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+HONG KONG - BRAY’S EYE VIEW* K H H H
A SPECIAL DOCUMENTARY WHICH HIGHLIGHTS THE PAST 27 YEARS LOCAL SERVICE OF MR. DENIS BRAY, FORMER SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, WILL BE SHOWN ON THE TWO ENGLISH TELEVISION CHANNELS TOMORROW (SUNDAY) NIGHT. .
THE HALF-HOUR SPECIAL, +HONG KONG - BRAY’S EYE VIEW*, IS PRODUCED BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG. IT GIVES AN IN-DEPTH REVIEW OF MR. BRAY’S SERVICE IN HONG KONG, STARTING WITH HIS EARLIEST SERVICE WITH THE SOCIAL WELFARE OFFICE.
THE PROGRAMME IS NOT ONLY AN ACCOUNT OF THE VARIOUS CHALLENGES J MR. BRAY HAD TO FACE IN PAST YEARS, IT ALSO REFLECTS THE GROWTH AND STRUGGLE OF THE HONG KONG PEOPLE SINCE THE FIFTIES.
AS MR. BRAY IS LEAVING FOR LONDON AS HONG KONG’S REPRESENTATIVE THERE, THIS IS A GOOD MOMENT TO SHARE HIS FEELINGS ON THE PROSPERITY AND ADVERSITIES WHICH HAVE SEVERELY AND REPEATEDLY TESTED HONG KONG AND ITS PEOPLE.
+HONG KONG - BRAY’S EYE VIEW* STARTS AT 10.10 P.M. ON
SUNDAY NIGHT ON TVB PEARL AND 10 P.M. ON RTV 2.
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SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 1977
- 5 -
POTTED SPORTS FESTIVAL AT CITY HALL
* * M * * M
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO VISIT THE CITY HALL THIS WEEKEND WILL FIND THEMSELVES IN THE MIDST OF A POTTED SPORTS FESTIVAL.
THERE WILL BE A SEMINAR THIS (SATURDAY) AFTERNOON IN THE THEATRE ON RECREATION AND SPORTS POLICY IN HONG KONG AND THEIR FACILITIES IN THE VARIOUS DISTRICTS, AS WELL AS A PRIZE PRESENTATION FOR AWARD WINNING SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHS.
TOMORROW (SUNDAY) MORNING, MUCH ACTIVITY WILL TAKE PLACE AT EDINBURGH PLACE IN FRONT OF QUEEN’S PIER WHERE THERE WILL BE A SPORTS DISPLAY.
ALL THESE EVENTS ARE HELD IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE SECOND ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION OF THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE AT THE EXHIBITION HALL, WHICH TRACES THE RAPID DEVELOPMENT OF THE SERVICE IN ITS SHORT 2-1/2 YEARS OF EXISTENCE.
THE EXHIBITION ALSO SHOWS SOME INTERESTING PROJECTS FOR THE FUTURE. INCLUDING THE PLANNED USE OF SOME HOUSING ESTATE ROOFTOPS AS TENNIS COURTS.
THE EXHIBITION IS OPEN TODAY AND TOMORROW (SUNDAY) FROM 9 A.M. TO 6 P.M., WHILE THE SPORTS DISPLAY WILL BE HELD FROM 10 A.M. TO 12.30 P.M. TOMORROW.
THE SEMINAR AND PRIZE-PRESENTATION AT THE THEATRE, BEGINNING AT 2.20 P.M. TODAY, WILL HAVE THE PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS AND INFORMATION, MR. JAMES Y.C. SO, AND OFFICIALS OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT AS SPEAKERS.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
DRUG ADDICTS REGISTRY REVAMPED ............ 1
NEW GUIDE TO INDUSTRIAL INVESTORS ......... 3
RECORD ENTRIES FOR MUSIC EXAM ............. 4
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
»
SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 19?7
1 -
OVERHAUL OF CENTRAL REGISTRY OF DRUG ADDICTS X * *
THE GOVERNMENT’S CENTRAL REGISTRY OF DRUG ADDICTS, WHICH WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1972, IS BEING RE-ORGANISED AND WILL BE COMPUTERISED LATER IN THE YEAR.
THE REGISTRY WILL THEN GIVE A MORE COMPREHENSIVE AND READILY. ACCESSIBLE PICTURE OF DRUG ABUSE TRENDS IN HONG KONG AND THE EFFECTIVENESS OF OUR PREVENTIVE AND REHABILITATION SERVICES. IT WILL THUS BECOME AN IMPORTANT TOOL TO BOTH THE GOVERNMENT AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES IN’THEIR ANTl-NARCOTICS WORK.
THE RE-ORGANISATION OF THE REGISTRY IS BASED ON A MASTER PLAN PRODUCED BY MR. BENT WERBELL, A DATA PROCESSING EXPERT OF THE NEW YORK CITY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, WHO WAS HERE LAST YEAR UNDER THE SPONSORSHIP OF THE U.S.A. NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON DRUG ABUSE TO STUDY WAYS OF CREATING A NEW REGISTRY BASED ON MODERN STATISTICAL AND COMPUTER CONCEPTS.
THE PLAN, WHICH WAS ACCEPTED BY THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS IN AUGUST LAST YEAR, IS TO BE CARRIED OUT IN TWO PHASES.
PHASE I COMPRISES MODIFICATIONS TO THE ORGANISATION AND OBJECTIVES OF THE REGISTRY, UNDER THE NARCOTICS DIVISION OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, AND THE INTRODUCTION OF A REVISED REPORTING FORM AND PROCEDURE, FOR COLLECTING INFORMATION. THIS WAS BEGUN ON SEPTEMBER 1 LAST YEAR AND IS NOW IN AN ADVANCED STAGE.
PHASE II IS THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF THE NEW COMPUTERISED SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING THE DATA. MR. WERBELL IS EXPECTED TO COME TO HONG KONG AGAIN THIS AUGUST TO HELP CARRY OUT THIS PHASE OF THE PLAN.
ADDITIONAL STAFF TO OPERATE THE NEW SYSTEM, INCLUDING A STATISTICAL OFFICER WHO IS EXPECTED TO SPECIALISE IN COLLECTING AND INTERPRETING DRUG STATISTICS- AND EXPENDITURE ON COMMERCIAL COMPUTER TIME, HAVE BEEN APPROVED RECENTLY BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.
THE FIRST COMPUTER PRINT-OUT OF THE REVAMPED REGISTRY SHOULD BE AVAILABLE AROUND THE MIDDLE OF NEXT YEAR.
IT WILL REVEAL, AMONG MANY OTHER THINGS, THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LOCAL ADDICT POPULATION, SUCH AS THE AGE GROUPS OF ADDICTS, RATIO OF MALES TO FEMALES, WHETHER ANY SUBSTANTIAL NUMBER OF THEM ARE SWITCHING TO SYNTHETIC DRUGS AS A RESULT OF THE CRACKDOWN ON HEROIN AND OPIUM SUPPLIES, AND WHETHER DRUG ABUSE IS SPREADING TO PREVIOUSLY UNKNOWN AREAS.
SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE EXTREMELY USEFUL IN EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF GOVERNMENT’S ANTI-NARCOTICS POLICIES (CURRENTLY COSTING APPROXIMATELY $40 MILLION A YEAR),AND IN IDENTIFYING AREAS IN WHICH CHANGES OF POLICY OR EMPHASIS MAY BE NEEDED.
/AS with
4
SXNDltf., JUNE 5, 1977 - 2 -
AS WITH ALL RESEARCH WORK HOWEVER, IN ORDER TO HAVE PRACTICAL VALUE, THE TIME LAG BETWEEN DATA COLLECTION AND THE PUBLICATION OF FINDINGS MUST BE REDUCED TO A MINIMUM. IN THIS RESPECT, THE COMPUTER SYSTEM TO BE USED FOR THE REGISTRY WILL BE ABLE TO PROVIDE PRINT-OUT ANALYSES AT SHORT AND REGULAR INTERVALS AS REQUIRED.
ANOTHER ESSENTIAL FEATURE OF THE COMPUTER SYSTEM IS ITS +MATCHING+ CAPABILITY. BY USING DIFFERENT COMBINATIONS OF IDENTIFYING INFORMATION, THE SYSTEM CAN BE USED TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN ONE ADDICT REPORTED TEN TIMES AND TEN ADDICTS REPORTED ONCE. THIS WILL REMOVE THE POSSIBILITY OF DUPLICATION OF REPORTS WHICH WAS ONE OF THE MAJOR DEFECTS OF THE REGISTRY IN THE PAST.
THE EFFECTIVENESS AND ACCURACY OF THE WHOLE SYSTEM, HOWEVER, DEPEND LARGELY ON THE CO-OPERATION OF VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES CONCERNED, INCLUDING THE POLICE, THE PRISONS, THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH, AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENTS, AND THE SOCIETY FOR THE AID AND REHABILITATION OF DRUG ADDICTS.
A STANDARD AND SIMPLE FORM, WHICH TAKES ONLY A COUPLE OF MINUTES TO FILL OUT, IS USED BY EVERY REPORTING SOURCE WHEN IT FIRST COMES INTO CONTACT WITH AN INDIVIDUAL ADDICT. THIS FORM WAS PUT INTO USE ON SEPTEMBER 1 LAST YEAR.
COMPLETE ANONYMITY IS GUARANTEED FOR ALL ADDICTS REPORTED TO THE REGISTRY AND INFORMATION ON INDIVIDUALS WILL BE KEPT ABSOLUTELY CONFIDENTIAL.
UP TO THE END OF MARCH, SOME 18,000 REPORTS HAVE BEEN COLLECTED AT THE REGISTRY. THESE REPORTS, TOGETHER WITH REPORTS TO COME IN DURING THE FOLLOWING MONTHS, WILL EVENTUALLY BE FED INTO THE COMPUTER WHEN PHASE II OF THE RE-ORGANISATION PLAN BEGINS.
THE NEW COMPUTER SYSTEM TO BE USED FOR THE REGISTRY WILL HAVE AN IMPORTANT SPIN-OFF: IT MAKES USE OF A VERY SOPHISTICATED INTEGRATED DATA-BASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, IN WHICH MR. WERBELL IS AN ACKNOWLEDGED EXPERT. THIS CAN BE USED AS A PROTOTYPE FOR SIMILAR SYSTEMS IN OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
0
SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 1977
5
GUIDE TO INDUSTRIAL INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG
X X X X X-
A NEW GUIDE TO PROMOTE INDUSTRIAL INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN HONG KONG HAS BEEN SPECIALLY PRODUCED FOR USE BY THE COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT.
THE BOOKLET, ENTITLED +INDUSTRI AL INVESTMENT HONG KONG+, ALSO SERVES AS A USEFUL SOURCE OF REFERENCE TO ANYONE INTERESTED IN HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT. IT CAN BE OBTAINED FOR $10 A COPY FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE IN THE NEW GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING.
HANDSOMELY ILLUSTRATED IN FULL COLOUR, THE BOOKLET GIVES COMPREHENSIVE INFORMATION ON WHAT HONG KONG HAS TO OFFER THE INVESTOR, COVERING SUBJECTS SUCH AS FINANCE AND TAXATION, INDUSTRIAL STRUCTURE, COMMUNICATIONS, LAND AND BUILDINGS AND LABOUR.
THE GOVERNMENT, IT IS STATED IN THE BOOKLET. WELCOMES THE ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW AND SOPHISTICATED INDUSTRIES WHICH WILL BROADEN HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL BASE.
IT IS EMPHASISED THAT NO DISTINCTION IS DRAWN BETWEEN LOCAL AND OVERSEAS COMPANIES — ALL ARE EQUALLY WELCOME.
BY WAY OF EXAMPLE A NUMBER OF INDUSTRIES ARE LISTED WHICH ARE CONSIDERED AS GOOD PROSPECTS FOR THE POTENTIAL INVESTOR. THESE ARE i
X LIGHT AND MEDIUM HEAVY ENGINEERING INDUSTRIES PRODUCING SUCH GOODS AS WATCHES AND CLOCKS, SAFETY RAZORS, OFFICE MACHINES, PACKAGING MACHINES, PHOTOGRAPHIC AND OPTICAL GOODS, PRECISION INSTRUMENTS, LIGHT INDUSTRIAL ENGINES, AUTOMOTIVE COMPONENTS, DOMESTIC APPLIANCES, MACHINE TOOLS, ETC.
X INDUSTRIES PROVIDING HIGH QUALITY SUPPORTING AND SERVICING FACILITIES SUCH AS METAL CASTING, FORGING, ELECTROPLATING, TOOL AND DIE MAKING, PRECISION MACHINING AND HEAT TREATMENT- AND
X THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY PRODUCING SOPHISTICATED GOODS SUCH AS COMPUTERS, TELEVISION SETS, ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS, ETC.
OVERSEAS COMPANIES ARE WELCOME, THE BOOKLET SAYS, NOT SO MUCH FOR ANY ADDITIONAL CAPITAL THEY MAY BRING WITH THEM BUT BECAUSE THEY MAY INTRODUCE MORE SOPHISTICATED MANAGEMENT, TECHNICAL SKILLS AND NEW IDEAS.
IN JUNE 1976 THERE WERE AT LEAST 290 FACTORIES IN HONG KONG, EITHER FULLY OR PARTLY OWNED BY OVERSEAS INTERESTS. THESE ESTABLISHMENTS EMPLOYED A TOTAL LABOUR FORCE OF ABOUT 62,000 WORKERS, OR 8 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL INDUSTRIAL WORKFORCE. TOTAL DIRECT OVERSEAS INVESTMENT AMOUNTED TO HK$1,77O MILLION WITH THE MAIN SOURCES BEING THE U.S.A., JAPAN, BRITAIN, THAILAND AND AUSTRALIA.
/THE INDUSTRIES
SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 1977
4 -
!
THE INDUSTRIES IN WHICH SUCH OVERSEAS INVESTMENTS ARE CONCENTRATED ARE ELECTONICS, TEXTILES, WATCHES AND CLOCKS AND ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS.
IT IS NOTED THAT THERE HAS BEEN A GROWING TREND IN RECENT YEARS FOR OVERSEAS INVESTORS TO ESTABLISH IN HONG KONG MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS IN THE MORE SOPHISTICATED AND TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED INDUSTRIES.
EXAMPLES OF SUCH OPERATIONS ESTABLISHED DURING THE PAST TWO YEARS ARE A MARINE ENGINE PLANT, A POLYSTYRENE PLANT, A HEAT TRANSFER PRINTING PAPER PLANT, A SOPHISTICATED MINIATURE LIGHT BULB FACTORY AND A PLANT PRODUCING HIGH QUALITY HAND TOOLS.
THE BOOKLET EXPLAINS IN SOME DETAIL HOW LAND CAN BE ACQUIRED FOR INDUSTRIAL PURPOSES. MOST INDUSTRIAL LAND IS SOLD BY AUCTION, BUT TO MEET THE NEEDS OF HEAVY INDUSTRIES, WHICH ARE OF A RELATIVELY HIGH TECHNOLOGICAL LEVEL, THE GOVERNMENT ALSO SELLS LAND ON SPECIAL TERMS.
THE GOVERNMENT HAS ALSO DECIDED THAT SEVERAL INDUSTRIAL ESTATES DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR HEAVIER INDUSTRIES SHOULD BE CONSTRUCTED. THE FIRST OF THESE ESTATES IS BE I NG-DEVELOPED AT TAI PO.
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RECORD NUMBER OF ENTRIES FOR MUSIC EXAMINATIONS * * * *
THE LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE ASSOCIATED BOARD OF THE ROYAL SCHOOLS OF MUSIC, LONDON, ANNOUNCED TODAY THAT ENTRIES FOR THIS /EAR’S PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONS HAD REACHED AN ALL-TIME RECORD OF 8,580 CANDIDATES.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ASSOCIATED BOARD IN LONDON DESCRIBED THE 17 PER CENT INCREASE OVER THE 1976 FIGURE AS ’QUITE STAGGERING . HE HAS ADVISED THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT THAT TEN EXAMINERS WILL BE COMING TO HONG KONG IN AUTUMN.
THE PANEL OF EXAMINERS WILL INCLUDE SIR KEITH FALKNER WHO WAS DIRECTOR OF THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF MUSIC, LONDON, FROM I960 UNTIL HIS RETIREMENT IN 1974 AND DR. KENNETH BARRITT WHO RECENTLY RETIRED FROM THE PRINCIPALSHIP OF THE ROYAL SCOTTISH ACADEMY OF MUSIC AND DRAMA.
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CIS
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
MONDAY, JUNE 6, 1977
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
MAY WEATHER .................................................. 1
16 SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS FOR AUCTION ........................... 2
$1 MILLION PLEDGE TO SILVER JUBILEE FUND ..................... 2
SILVER JUBILEE COMMEMORATIVE TREE PLANTING ................... 3
WOMEN’S LAWN BOWLS CHAMPIONS CONGRATULATED ................... 3
VMO LONG-SERVING STAFF ACKNOWLEDGED .......................... 4
REMINDER TO ABERDEEN BOAT OPERATORS .......................... 4
SAMPLES NOT ACCEPTED FOR SPEEDPOST TO U.S.A................... 5
FIRING PRACTICE .............................................. 5
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
MONDAY, JUNE 6, 1977
1
SUNNIER AND WARMER MAY
*****
MAY WAS SUNNIER AND WARMER THAN USUAL WITH ITS MEAN TEMPERATURE OF 27.8 DEGREES CELSIUS RANKING THE THIRD HIGHEST ON RECORD FOR MAY AND ITS MEAN MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 31.3 DEGREES CELSIUS THE SECOND HIGHEST FOR THE MONTH SINCE 1884.
A SLIGHTLY ABOVE AVERAGE OF 296.1 MM OF RAINFALL RECORDED IN THE MONTH PUT AN END TO THE DRY CONDITIONS THAT STARTED IN NOVEMBER 1976. HOWEVER, THE ACCUMULATED RAINFALL SINCE JANUARY 1 AMOUNTED TO 370.1 MM WHICH IS 36 PER CENT BELOW AVERAGE.
CONDITIONS DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF THE MONTH WERE GENERALLY FINE, SUNNY AND WARM BECAUSE OF THE INFLUENCE OF A RIDGE 'OF HIGH PRESSURE FROM THE PACIFIC. THE MINIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 22.8 DEGREES CELSIUS RECORDED ON THE MORNING OF MAY 1 WAS THE LOWEST OF THE MONTH.
APART FROM A FEW ISOLATED SHOWERS BROUGHT BY A COLD FRONT
FROM THE NORTH ON MAY 8, THE WEATHER CONTINUED TO BE FINE AND SUNNY DURING THE NEXT SIX DAYS. ON MAY 13, TEMPERATURE ROSE TO A MAXIMUM OF 33.6 DEGREES CELSIUS AND IT WAS THE HIGHEST OF THE MONTH.
ANOTHER COLD FRONT CROSSED HONG KONG ON MAY 15 BRINGING CLOUDY AND SHOWERY CONDITIONS AND MARKING THE START OF A PROLONGED PERIOD OF UNSETTLED WEATHER WHICH PERSISTED UNTIL THE END OF THE MONTH.
DURING THIS PERIOD, AN ACTIVE TROUGH OF LOW PRESSURE REMAINED CLOSE TO HONG KONG AND AS A RESULT, THERE WERE FREQUENT HEAVY SHOWERS AND SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS. THUNDERSTORM OR THUNDERSTORM AND HEAVY RAIN WARNINGS WERE ISSUED NEARLY EVERY DAY DURING THE LATTER HALF OF THE MONTH.
NO STRONG MONSOON WARNINGS WERE ISSUED DURING THE MONTH BUT ONE AIRCRAFT WAS DIVERTED FROM THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ON MAY 24 BECAUSE OF ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS.
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MONDAY, JUNE 6, 1977
2
SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS AUCTION
*******
CAR OWNERS WILL HAVE ANOTHER CHANCE TO BID FOR 16 EXCLUSIVE VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBERS AT AN AUCTION THIS SATURDAY (JUNE 11).
PROCEEDS OF THE AUCTION, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 10 A.M. AT THE CITY HALL LECTURE HALL ON THE 8TH FLOOR, WILL GO INTO THE LOTTERIES FUND FOR SOCIAL WELFARE PURPOSES.
THE SIXTEEN NUMBERS ARE :-
BN 505 AV 32 BB 23 BM 99
BN 525 3228 BK 18 BL 100
AC 717 HK 80 BJ 22 AG 8
AH 686 BM 9000 BJ 323 BB 2222
A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN REMINDED THAT SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS WOULD HAVE TO PAY IN CASH OR BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE CLOSE OF BIDDING.
THE NUMBERS WILL BE ASSIGNED ONLY TO A VEHICLE REGISTERED IN THEIR NAME WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE AUCTION.
$1 MILLION PLEDGE TO QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE APPEAL FUND *****
NOTE TO EDITORS:
A CHEQUE FOR 31 MILLION FOR THE QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE APPEAL FUND WILL BE PRESENTED TO MR. Q.W. LEE, CHAIRMAN OF THE APPEAL FUND COMMITTEE, TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE MONEY IS BEING GIVEN BY MR. WILLIAM MA CHING-WAI, A WELL-KNOWN LOCAL BUSINESSMAN, AND WILL BE THE LARGEST SINGLE DONATION TO THE FUND SO FAR. MR. MA IS FIRST VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATION. MR. MA IS ALSO DIRECTOR AND MANAGER OF TAI SANG BANK LTD., AND TAI SANG LAND DEVELOPMENT LTD. AS WELL AS A MEMBER OF THE APPEAL FUND COMMITTEE.
THE PRESENTATION WILL TAKE PLACE AT 3.30 P.M. AT THE RECEPTION AREA ON THE FIRST FLOOR OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT. YOU ARE INVITED TO HAVE THE FUNCTION COVERED. REFRESHMENTS WILL BE PROVIDED.
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MONDAY, JUNE 6, 1977
LADY MACLEHOSE TO PLANT SILVER JUBILEE TREE ******
NOTE TO EDITORS:
LADY MACLEHOSE WILL TOMORROW (TUESDAY) PLANT A TREE IN THE GARDEN OF NEW SANDILANDS, THE GIRL GUIDES HEADQUARTERS, TO MARK THE SILVER JUBILEE OF THE REIGN OF HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN.
THE TREE, SILVER GUM, WILL BE PLANTED AT A CEREMONY STARTING AT 1D.3O A.M.
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER/ PHOTOGRAPHER TO COVER THE EVENT AT THE GIRL GUIDES HEADQUARTERS, NEW SANDILANDS, 141 WONG NE I CHUNG GAP ROAD.
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HONG KONG’S WORLD LAWN BOWLS CHAMPIONS CONGRATULATED ******
LADY MACLEHOSE HAS CONGRATULATED THE HONG KONG’S WOMEN’S LAWN BOWLS TEAM ON WINNING THE WOMEN’S WORLD BOWLS PAIRS CHAMPIONSHIP IN WORTHING, ENGLAND.
IN A TELEGRAM TO THE TEAM TODAY (MONDAY), LADY MACLEHOSE SAID: +CONGRATULATIONS ON WINNING THE WOMEN’S WORLD BOWLS PAIRS CHAMPIONSHIP. WE ARE ALL PROUD OF YOU.+
•> MONDAY, JUNE 6, 1977
- 4 -VEGETABLE MARKETING ORGANISATION LONG SERVICE MEDALS *****
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR. E.H. NICHOLS, WILL PRESENT LONG SERVICE MEDALS TO NINE STAFF MEMBERS OF THE VEGETABLE MARKETING ORGANISATION TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE RECIPIENTS HAVE EACH COMPLETED 25 YEARS’ SERVICE WITH THE ORGANISATION. THEY ARE: MR. TSE HON-LEUNG FLOOR SUPERVISOR
MR. WONG MOW MARKET SALESMAN
MR. NGAI MING ASSISTANT CLERICAL OFFICER
MR. CHEUNG YAN-LUN ASSISTANT CLERICAL OFFICER
MR. CHAN CHI-KUNG ASSISTANT CLERICAL OFFICER'
MR. CHEUNG CHAK ASSISTANT CLERICAL OFFICER
MR. CHEUNG SHUI-KAU ASSISTANT CLERICAL OFFICER
MR. YAN KIM-HUNG MECHANICAL . FITTER
MR. CHUNG TAT-MING WATCHMAN
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER TO COVER THE EVENT. THE PRESENTATION WILL BEGIN AT 4 P.M. AT THE CHEUNG SHA WAN VEGETABLE WHOLESALE MARKET.
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REMINDER TO BOAT OPERATORS IN ABERDEEN HARBOUR
*****
A MARINE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY REMINDED UNAUTHORISED BOAT OWNERS AND OPERATORS NOT TO ANCHOR, MOOR, OR LOITER WITHIN 50 FEET OF THE JUMBO RESTAURANT IN ABERDEEN HARBOUR.
NOTICES OF THIS WARNING ARE CONSPICUOUSLY DISPLAYED IN ENGLISH AND CHINESE ON THE SEAWARD SIDE OF THE RESTAURANT.
RECENTLY FOUR OPERATORS & VESSELS BELONGING TO A CONTRACTOR
IN CHARGE OF THE ABERDEEN HARBOUR SCAVENGING FLEET WERE PROSECUTED FOR CONTRAVENING THIS WARNING AND WERE FINED A TOTAL OF $900.
THEY WERE WARNED BY THE MAGISTRATE THAT HEAVIER FINES WOULD BE IMPOSED SHOULD SUCH CONTRAVENTION BE REPEATED.
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MONDAY, JUNE 6, 1977
SPEEDPOST SAMPLES TO U.S.A. TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED
*****
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE POST OFFICE HAS ANNOUNCED THAT IT IS NECESSARY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE TO SUSPEND ACCEPTING SAMPLES IN ITS SPEEDPOST SERVICE TO THE U.S.A., OWING TO ACTION TAKEN BY CUSTOMS AUTHORITIES THERE.
HOWEVER, OTHER ITEMS SUCH AS BUSINESS DOCUMENTS AND COMMERCIAL PAPERS WILL CONTINUE TO BE ACCEPTED FOR TRANSMISSION.
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FIRING PRACTICE * * * *
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE AT CASTLE PEAK RANGE FOR FOUR CONSECUTIVE DAYS STARTING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE PUBLIC ARE REMINDED THAT IT IS DANGEROUS TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN THE RED FLAGS ARE FLYING DURING THE TIME OF THE FIRING PRACTICE.
THE PRACTICE TIMES ARE s-
DATE HOURS
JUNE 7 (TUESDAY) 8.30 A.M. - 5.00 P.M.
JUNE 8 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 A.M. -11.59 P.M.
JUNE 9 (THURSDAY) 8.30 A.M. - 5.00 P.M.
JUNE 10 (FRIDAY) 8.00 A.M. - 5.00 P.M.
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 1977
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
SI MILLION BOOST TO JUBILEE FUND ............................... 1
STRONG INTEREST IN TUEN MUN LAND AUCTION ....................... 2
WAN CHAI BUILDING VACATED FOR ROAD PROJECT ..................... 3
WELFARE ALLOWANCE RECIPIENTS BEWARE OF IMPOSTERS ............. 4
BERTHING PERMIT REQUIRED FOR PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREAS ... 5
FIRE SERVICES OFFICERS VISIT SAN PO KONG ...................... 5
LABOUR COMMISSIONER ON TOUR OF FACTORIES ...................... 6
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 1977
1
$1 MILLION FOR QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE APPEAL FUND
*****
THE QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE APPEAL FUND TODAY (TUESDAY) RECEIVED ITS LARGEST SINGLE DONATION TO DATE, THE SUM OF $1 MILLION.
THE MONEY WAS A PERSONAL DONATION BY MR. WILLIAM MA CHING-WAI, WHO PRESENTED A CHEQUE FOR THIS SUM TO MR. Q.W. LEE, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE APPEAL FUND COMMITTEE, AT A RECEPTION HELD AT THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT.
MR. MA IS FIRST VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATION. MR. MA IS ALSO DIRECTOR AND MANAGER OF TAI SANG BANK LTD., AND TAI SANG LAND DEVELOPMENT LTD. AS WELL AS A MEMBER OF THE APPEAL FUND COMMITTEE.
THIS DONATION BRINGS TO $4 MILLION THE AMOUNT RECEIVED SO FAR SINCE THE APPEAL WAS LAUNCHED IN APRIL. IN ADDITION, INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANISATIONS HAVE PLEDGED A FURTHER $2.75 MILLION WHICH INCLUDES A PLEDGE OF $1 MILLION BY ANOTHER SINGLE DONOR, MR. WILLIAM LEE WAI-LEE.
THE APPEAL FUND WAS ESTABLISHED IN CONNECTION WITH THE QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE TO RAISE MONEY FOR PROJECTS FOR THE BENEFIT OF HONG KONG’S YOUNG PEOPLE. THE INITIAL PLAN IS TO USE THE FUNDS TO PROVIDE SOME OF THE FACILITIES AND PROGRAMMES AT THE PLANNED SHA TIN SPORTS CENTRE.
THE AIM OF THIS PROJECT, WHICH IS A JOINT VENTURE BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB, IS TO PROVIDE A MAJOR SPORTS CENTRE FOR HONG KONG. THE CONCEPT IS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT FROM ANY SPORTS FACILITIES SO FAR BUILT IN HONG KONG WHICH CATER FOR SPECTATORS AS MUCH AS FOR ACTIVE SPORTSMEN. AT SHA TIN THE EMPHASIS IS TO BE ON SPORTS TRAINING AND COACHING WITH NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL EXPERTS GIVING GUIDANCE TO OUR UP-AND-COMING SPORTSMEN AND WOMEN IN A WIDE VARIETY OF SPORTS WITH A VIEW TO RAISING THE LEVEL OF SPORT THROUGHOUT HONG KONG AND THUS STIMULATING INCREASING PARTICIPATION IN SPORT.
ANY PERSON OR ORGANISATION WISHING TO DONATE TOWARDS THE FUND SHOULD SEND THEIR DONATIONS TO MR. M.G.R. SANDBERG, QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE FUND, C/O HONG KONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORATION AT 1 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, HONG KONG. APPROPRIATE RECOGNITION WILL BE MADE OF DONATIONS IF DONORS SO WISH.
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TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 1977
2
TUEN MUN LOTS SOLD FOR $14.6 M
*****
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY SOLD TWO LOTS OF COMMERCIAL/ RESIDENTIAL SITES IN THE FAST DEVELOPING NEW TOWN OF TUEN MUN IN THE NEW TERRITORIES FOR $14.6 MILLION.
THE TWO LOTS WERE SOLD AT A PUBLIC AUCTION ATTENDED BY ABOUT 150 PEOPLE AT THE HOH FUK TONG SECONDARY SCHOOL.
THE BIGGER OF THE TWO LOTS COMPRISING 14,500 SQ. FT. WENT UNDER THE HAMMER FOR $8.8 MILLION — NEARLY DOUBLE THE UPSET PRICE OF $4.5 MILLION AFTER HEATED BIDDING.
THE BUYERS, LAKESHORE LAND INVESTMENT LTD., PAID $607 PER SQ. FT. FOR THIS LAND.
THE SECOND LOT MEASURING 9,300 SQ. FT. NETTED $5.8 • MILLION AFTER BIDDING HAD STARTED AT $3 MILLION.
THE BUYERS WERE COMMON BOND INVESTMENT LTD. WHO PAID $623 PER SQ. FT.
THE TWO LOTS CARRIED BUILDING COVENANTS REQUIRING THE BUYERS TO SPEND A TOTAL OF $4.76 MILLION ON THE SITES WITH IN 36 MONTHS.
THE SENIOR ESTATE SURVEYOR, MR. VINCENT CHU WHO CONDUCTED THE AUCTION ALONG WITH MR. R.B.J. CROSS, ESTATE SURVEYOR, SAID IT WAS THE FIRST SUCH AUCTION HELD BY GOVERNMENT OF NONINDUSTRIAL LAND IN TUEN MUN SINCE NOVEMBER 1974. A LOT OF 5,000 SQ. FT. WAS THEN SOLD FOR $790,000 OR $158 PER SQ. FT.
+THERE IS CONSIDERABLE DEVELOPMENT, BOTH INDUSTRIAL AND RESIDENTIAL,UNDERWAY IN TUEN MUN AND THE KEEN BIDDING TODAY CLEARLY INDICATES THE GREAT DEMAND FOR COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL SITES IN THE DISTRICT,* HE SAID.
+IT ALSO DEMONSTRATES THE PUBLIC’S INTEREST AND CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE PROSPECT FOR TUEN MUN NEW TOWN,* MR. CHU ADDED.
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TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 1977
5
GOVERNMENT TAKES OVER VACATED BUILDING IN WAN CHAI
X * X H
THE UPPER FLOORS AND HALF OF THE SHOP SPACE OF A BUILDING AT NO. 370, HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI, WERE TAKEN OVER BY THE GOVERNMENT THIS (TUESDAY) MORNING AFTER THE OCCUPANTS HAD COMPLETELY VACATED THE PREMISES.
THE BUILDING, ALONG WITH THREE OTHERS AT NO. 372, HENNESSY ROAD AND NOS. 2-4, TIN LOK LANE, ARE REQUIRED TO MAKE WAY FOR THE WIDENING OF THE TIN LOK LANE. PART OF A MAJOR ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT TO EASE THE TRAFFIC CONDITIONS IN THE WAN CHAI AREA.
THEY HAVE BEEN RESUMED BY THE GOVERNMENT THROUGH PROPER RESUMPTION PROCEEDINGS UNDER THE CROWN LANDS RESUMPTION ORDINANCE IN FEBRUARY THIS YEAR.
COMMENTING ON THE TAKING OVER OF ONE OF THE BUILDINGS, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT ALTHOUGH THE REMAINING OCCUPANTS OF OTHER BUILDINGS WERE ALLOWED TO STAY UP TO AUGUST 24 THIS YEAR, THIS PARTICULAR BUILDING WAS IMMEDIATELY REQUIRED FOR CARRYING OUT PERMANENT STRUCTURAL SUPPORTS TO STABILISE THE ADJACENT BUILDING BEFORE ITS DEMOLITION.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE OWNERS OF THE BUILDINGS AFFECTED HAD BEEN COMPENSATED FOR THEIR PROPERTIES AT MARKET VALUE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CROWN LANDS RESUMPTION ORDINANCE WHILE ALL OCCUPIERS HAD BEEN GIVEN EX-GRATIA COMPENSATION, CALCULATED ON A RANGE OF RATES UP TO $21 PER SQUARE FOOT FOR DOMESTIC ACCOMMODATION AND UP TO $42 PER SQUARE FOOT FOR BUSINESS OCCUPATION.
IN ADDITION, ELIGIBLE DOMESTIC TENANTS HAD ALSO BEEN GIVEN ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES, HE ADDED.
FOR THE DOMESTIC TENANTS IN THE BUILDINGS AFFECTED, ALL OF THEM HAVE MOVED OUT AND HANDED BACK THEIR PREMISES AFTER HAVING RECEIVED THEIR EX-GRATIA COMPENSATION. A TOTAL OF 27 FAMILIES HAVE BEEN PROVIDED WITH NEW HOMES IN THE PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES.
THERE ARE STILL FIVE SHOPS AND TWO WORKSHOPS REMAINING IN THE BUILDINGS. THE OPERATORS ARE ALSO URGED TO ACCEPT THE OFFER MADE BY THE GOVERNMENT AND TO MOVE OUT OF THE PREMISES WITHOUT DELAY.
THE OPERATORS HAVE BEEN INFORMED THAT THEY MAY, IF THEY DISAGREE WITH THE GOVERNMENT’S OFFER OF COMPENSATION, ACCEPT PAYMENT OF THAT OFFER WITHOUT PREJUDICE TO THEIR RIGHTS TO SUBSEQUENTLY SUBMIT A CLAIM TO THE GOVERNMENT AND, IF SUCH CLAIM IS NOT ACCEPTED BY THE GOVERNMENT, TO REFER THEIR CLAIM TO THE LANDS TRIBUNAL, WHICH IS AN INDEPENDENT BODY, FOR DETERMINATION.
/THE SPOKESMAN
WTUESDAY, JUNE 7, 1977
4
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THE CLEARANCE OF THE BUILDINGS, SCHEDULED TO TAKE PLACE ON MAY 18 HAD BEEN POSTPONED TO AUGUST 24 TO GIVE THE OCCUPIERS A FURTHER GRACE PERIOD OF THREE MONTHS TO MAKE THEIR REMOVAL ARRANGEMENTS.
BY GIVING SUCH AN EXTENSION, THE OCCUPIERS WOULD HAVE ENJOYED A RENT-FREE PERIOD OF MORE THAN SIX MONTHS, HE ADDED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE WIDENING OF THE TIN LOK LANE --.S AN IMPORTANT ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT WHICH MUST BE CARRIED OUT ACCORDING TO THE WORK SCHEDULE AND THE REMAINING SHOP OPERATORS MUST VACATE THEIR PREMISES BY AUGUST 24.
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PA AND DIA RECIPIENTS ALERTED ON IMPOSTERS
* M * * *
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT TODAY WARNED RECIPIENTS OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND DISABILITY AND INFIRMITY ALLOWANCES TO BE ON GUARD AGAINST PEOPLE IMPERSONATING GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS CHEATING THEM OFF THEIR MONTHLY ALLOWANCES.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY THAT RECENTLY AN ELDERLY WOMAN WAS APPROACHED BY A MAN POSING AS AN EMPLOYEE OF THE DEPARTMENT AND CHEATED HER OUT OF HER LIFE SAVINGS.
♦RECIPIENTS WHO ARE UNCERTAIN OF ANY CALLERS CLAIMING TO BE FROM THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT SHOULD INSIST ON IDENTIFICATIONS. ALL STAFF ARE ISSUED WITH DEPARTMENTAL IDENTITY CARDS,+ HE STRESSED.
FURTHERMORE, RECIPIENTS OF BOTH PA AND DIA HAVE ALL BEEN GIVEN A REFERENCE CARD (FORM 321). ON THE CARD ARE LISTED THE RECIPIENT’S NAME AND HIS CASE-FILE NUMBER- THE NAME OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY FIELD UNIT- AND THE CASEWORKER’S NAME AND TELEPHONE NUMBER.
+IF THE RECIPIENTS HAVE DOUBTS ABOUT THE IDENTIFICATION OF THE CALLER, VERIFICATION CAN BE MADE IMMEDIATELY BY CONTACTING THE DEPARTMENT OVER THE PHONE.
♦ IN NO CASE SHOULD THEY HAND OVER ANY MONEY,+ THE SPOKESMAN ADVISED.
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/5 ....•
TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 1977
5
PERMIT REQUIRED FOR BERTHING AT PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREA
THE MARINE VESSELS THAT IT SUCH VESSELS AT
DEPARTMENT HAS REMINDED OWNERS OF LOCAL CARGO IS NECESSARY TO OBTAIN A PERMIT FOR BERTHING A PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREA.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THAT FAILURE TO DO SO COULD LEAD TO PROSECUTION UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE PORT CONTROL (CARGO WORKING AREAS) ORDINANCE.
RECENTLY A TSUEN WAN COURT FINED THE OWNER OF A LOCAL CARGO VESSEL $1,000 FOR FAILING TO OBTAIN SUCH A PERMIT.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT IT WAS NECESSARY TO REGULATE CARGO WORKING ACTIVITIES AND TO IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY AT PUBLIC SEAWALLS GENERALLY. IT WAS THE MAIN FUNCTION OF THE CARGO HANDLING SECTION OF THE MARINE DEPARTMENT TO ENSURE THAT THE CONTROL SCHEME AS PROVIDED IN THE ORDINANCE WAS PROPERLY IMPLEMENTED, TO COLLATE INFORMATION RELATING TO CARGO MOVEMENTS ACROSS PUBLIC SEAWALLS, AND TO FORMULATE THE PHASED PROGRAMMES FOR DEVELOPING PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREAS AND WATERFRONTS.
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FIRE SERVICES OFFICERS TO INSPECT FACTORY BUILDINGS ******
NOTE TO EDITORS:
OFFICERS OF THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT WILL PAY A RETURN VISIT TO SAN PO KONG TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) AND ON THURSDAY TO INSPECT THE INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS IN THE AREA.
THE VISIT FOLLOWS THE SURVEY MADE IN MARCH THIS YEAR DURING WHICH THE CONDITIONS IN MOST OF THE BUILDINGS WERE FOUND TO BE UNSATISFACTORY.
AT 9 3O°ATM5°ONFBOTHRDAYSLL CARRY °UT ™E INSPECTI0N WH|CH WILL START
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHER TO COVER THE INSPECTION TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY). YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE REQUESTED TO ASSEMBLE AT THE MOBILE COMMAND UNIT AT TAI YAU STREET. A SENIOR FIRE OFFICER WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST THE PRESS.
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TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 1977
6 -
LABOUR COMMISSIONER ON FAMILIARISATION TOUR
******
NOTE TO EDITORS:
COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR. PETER WILLIAMS. WILL VISIT TWO FACTORIES ON A FAMILIARISATION TOUR TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
HE WILL FIRST GO TO AMPEX FERROTEC LTD. AT 603 TAI NAM P?tAI 2 P-M- BEF0RE V,S,TING the CENTRAL TEXTILFS (H.K.) LTD. AT 8, SHA TSUI ROAD IN TSUEN WAN AT 4 P.M.
LIMITED TRANSPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE TO PRESS REPRESENTATIVES WHO WISH TO COVER THE VISITS. A NINE-SEATER VAN WILL LEAVE HANKOW ROAD NEXT TO THE PENINSULA HOTEL AT 1.15 P.M. TOMORROW.
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PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 1977
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
SIR MURRAY ON TOUR OF TSUEN WAN .............................. 1
260,700 ENGAGED IN WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADES ............... 2
INDUSTRIAL WORKERS TO VISIT FACTORIES IN JAPAN ............... 3
LABOUR COMMISSIONER BEGINS FAMILIARISATION TOUR .............. 4
NINE FACTORIES TO BE SUMMONED FOR FIRE HAZARDS ............... 4
TRADE DISPUTE SETTLED ........................................ 5
SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT!
140 H.K. CITIZENS AWARDED SILVER JUBILEE MEDAL
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 1977
1
GOVERNOR SEES DEVELOPMENT PROGRESS IN TSUEN WAN *****
THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, TODAY TOURED TSUEN WAN AND INSPECTED THE MANY DEVELOPMENTS THAT HAD TAKEN PLACE SINCE HE LAST VISITED THE NEW TOWN A YEAR AGO.
HE WAS ACCOMPANIED ON THE VISIT BY THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES- THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES (DEVELOPMENT), MR. JOHN TODD-THE DIRECTOR OF NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT, MR. J.R. WHITAKER AND THE TSUEN WAN TOWN MANAGER, MR. JAMES HAYES.
THEY HAD DISCUSSIONS ON THE NEW TOWN’S MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT ON BOARD THE GOVERNMENT LAUNCH, +SIR CECIL CLEMENTI+, AFTER THE GOVERNOR HAD VISITED THE DOW CHEMICALS (H.K.) LTD. ON TSING Yl AND THE MODERN TERMINALS LTD. IN KWAI CHUNG.
SIR MURRAY WAS TOLD THAT SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS HAD BEEN MADE IN THE PROVISION OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES FOR TSUEN WAN. WORK HAS EITHER STARTED OR WILL BEGIN SOON ON A NUMBER OF PROJECTS WHICH INCLUDE AN INDOOR GAMES HALL, TWO PLAYGROUNDS, THE KWAI CHUNG SPORTS GROUND AND EIGHT SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
HE WAS ALSO BRIEFED BY THE P.W.D.’S PROJECT MANAGER IN TSUEN WAN, MR. EDDIE SHORT, ON THE VARIOUS NEW TRUNK ROAD PROPOSALS FOR TSUEN WAN AS WELL AS ON THE PROGRESS OF ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS DESIGNED TO EASE TRAFFIC FLOW IN THE BUSY DISTR ICT.
IN TSUEN WAN, THE GOVERNOR SAW WORK UNDERWAY AT THE SITE FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES’ FIRST PURPOSE-BUILT AUDITORIUM WHICH SHOULD BE COMPLETED IN 1979 TO CATER FOR THE INCREASING CULTURAL ACTIVITIES IN THE NEW TOWN.
HE THEN WENT ON TO HAVE A LOOK AT THE SITE FOR THE GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSED TSO KUNG TAM PARK AND RECREATION CENTRE, A MASTER PLAN FOR WHICH IS NOW BEING DRAWN UP BY CONSULTANTS.
THE NEXT STOP WAS AT GOLDHILL WHERE THE DEVELOPMENT OF TWO PRIVATE HOUSING PROJECTS BY HOPEWELL AND SUN HUNG KEI WILL PROVIDE HOUSING AND RECREATION FACILITIES FOR 30,000 PEOPLE.
SIR MURRAY PROCEEDED TO THE TSUEN WAN TOWN MANAGEMENT OFFICE WHERE HE MET THE LOCAL NEW TERRITORIES JUSTICES OF THE PEACE AS WELL AS CHAIRMAN AND VICE-CHAIRMEN OF THE TSUEN WAN, TSING Yl AND MA WAN RURAL COMMITTEES.
THE TOUR TOOK THE PARTY TO A LOOK-OUT POINT ABOVE SHING MUN ROAD WHERE THE GOVERNOR SAW THE DEVELOPMENT UNDERWAY ON THE SHING ON ESTATE WHICH WILL HOUSE 34,000 PEOPLE BY EARLY 1981, AND ON THE CHEUNG SHAN ESTATE WHICH WILL HOUSE 12,000 BY 1979.
/THE VISITORS .....
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 1977
2
THE VISITORS WERE BRIEFED ON THE WORK WHICH WOULD BEGIN SHORTLY ON THE CASTLE PEAK ROAD-TEXACO ROAD INTERCHANGE TO PROVIDE AN EASY ACCESS INTO TSUEN WAN AND EASE TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT THIS BUSY JUNCTION.
SIR MURRAY THEN CALLED AT THE LEK MUK SHUE COMMUNITY HALL AND HELD A MEETING WITH MEMBERS OF THE TSUEN WAN RECREATION AND AMENITIES COMMITTEE.
THE LAST STOP WAS AT THE KWAI CHUNG POLICE STATION. HERE, SIR MURRAY WAS MET BY THE DISTRICT POLICE COMMANDER, NEW TERRITORIES, MR. J.H. GRIEVE. HE LEARNED THAT THE INTRODUCTION OF THE BEAT RADIO SYSTEM IN TSUEN WAN AND KWAI CHUNG HAD PRODUCED GOOD RESULTS, WITH THE BEAT POLICEMEN NOW EVEN MORE EFFECTIVELY EMPLOYED.
THE GOVERNOR LATER VISITED THE NEW TERRITORIES DISTRICT POLICE CONTROL ROOM AND HAD DISCUSSIONS WITH MEMBERS OF THE TSUEN WAN FIGHT VIOLENT CRIME COMMITTEE.
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EMPLOYMENT IN WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADES
* * M *
A TOTAL OF 260,700 PERSONS WERE ENGAGED IN WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADES IN MARCH THIS YEAR, ACCORDING TO A RECENT EMPLOYMENT SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE WHOLESALE TRADES INCLUDED IMPORT AND EXPORT BUSINESSES.
THE FIGURE REPRESENTS A DECLINE OF ABOUT 3,500 PERSONS OR 1.3 PER CENT FROM THE 264,190 ENGAGED LAST DECEMBER. .COMPARED WITH MARCH LAST YEAR HOWEVER, EMPLOYMENT WAS UP BY 6,320 PERSONS OR 2.5 PER CENT.
OF THE 260,700 PERSONS ENGAGED THIS MARCH, 122,920 WERE IN RETAIL TRADE, 22,430 IN WHOLESALE TRADE, 79,480 IN IMPORT/EXPORT BUSINESS AND 35,870 IN A COMBINATION OF IMPORT/EXPORT, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL ACTIVITIES.
THE EMPLOYMENT SURVEY ALSO SHOWS 93,460 PERSONS WORKING IN RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND BARS, AN INCREASE OF 3,450 OR 3.8 PER CENT COMPARED WITH DECEMBER 1976= AND 16,810 IN HOTELS AND BOARDING HOUSES, A SLIGHT DECLINE OF 60 OR 0.4 PER CENT.
COMPARED WITH MARCH 1976, AN INCREASE IN EMPLOYMENT OF 7,460 PERSONS OR 8.7 PER CENT WAS RECORDED IN RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND BARS, AND 310 OR 1.9 PER CENT IN HOTELS AND BOARDING HOUSES.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 1977
3
INDUSTRIAL WORKERS ON STUDY TOUR TO JAPAN ******
ABOUT 30 INDUSTRIAL WORKERS STUDY TOUR TO JAPAN NEXT WEEK.
WILL TAKE PART IN A NINE-DAY
THE PARTICIPANTS, ALL AGED BETWEEN 18 AND 30, ARE DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN THE PRODUCTION LINE OF THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY. THEY HAVE BEEN NOMINATED BY THEIR EMPLOYERS WHO ARE ALSO RESPONSIBLE FOR THE EXPENSES OF THE TOUR.
SPONSORED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, THE STUDY TOUR HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY CENTRE AND THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT INDUSTRIAL WORKERS’ RECREATIONAL SCHEME COMMITTEE.
MRS. HENRIETTA CHEN, THE COMMUNITY AND YOUTH OFFICER FOR WONG TAI SIN, WHO IS ALSO THE LEADER OF THE GROUP, SAID : +THE TOUR HAS BEEN ORGANISED NOT ONLY TO BROADEN THE MIND OF THE FACTORY WORKERS BUT ALSO TO PROVIDE THEM WITH A CHANCE TO OBSERVE THE TECHNICAL SKILLS OF THE JAPANESE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS, AND TO STUDY THEIR WELFARE SCHEMES AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES.*
THE STUDY TOUR WILL BEGIN ON JUNE 16 IN TOKYO WHERE THE PARTICIPANTS WILL VISIT A WATCH COMPANY, AN AUDIO EQUIPMENT EXHIBITION AND A CAMERA FACTORY. ON ARRIVAL AT OSAKA ON JUNE 21, THE GROUP WILL VISIT AN IRON AND STEEL INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, AN ELECTRONIC FACTORY AND A PLASTICS FACTORY.
MRS. CHEN NOTED THAT THE PROGRAMME WOULD ALSO INCLUDE A VISIT TO A TECHNICAL SCHOOL, A YOUTH CENTRE AND SOME SIGHT-SEEING TOURS.
+DURING THE TOUR, EXPERTS IN THE VARIOUS FIELDS WILL GIVE LECTURES ON JAPANESE INDUSTRIES AND PARTICIPANTS WILL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO DISCUSS WITH THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN JAPAN ON MATTERS OF MUTUAL INTERESTS,* SHE ADDED.
MR. JIMMY SWEETMAN, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, WILL PRESENT A BANNER TO THE GROUP AT A CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT THE WONG TAI SIN COMMUNITY CENTRE THIS FRIDAY (JUNE 10) AT 11 A.M.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE PRESENTATION OF A BANNER TO 30 INDUSTRIAL WORKERS BY MR. JIMMY SWEETMAN, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, TO BE HELD AT THE WONG TAI SIN COMMUNITY CENTRE, 104, CHING TAK STREET ON FRIDAY AT 11 A.M.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 1977
4
LABOUR COMMISSIONER PRAISES FACTORIES DURING VISIT ******
THE NEW COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR. PETER WILLIAMS, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) TOURED TWO FACTORIES, ONE IN KOWLOON AND ANOTHER IN TSUEN WAN, AT THE START OF A SERIES OF FAMILIARISATION VISITS TO INDUSTRIAL CONCERNS.
THIS WAS MR. WILLIAMS’ FIRST VISIT TO FACTORIES SINCE HE BECAME COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR.
HIS FIRST STOP WAS AMPEX FERROTEC LTD., AN ELECTRONIC COMPUTER FACTORY IN TAI NAN STREET, SHAM SHU I PO RUN BY AN AMERICAN CONCERN. IT EMPLOYS ABOUT 2,000 WORKERS, INCLUDING SOME 200 HIGHLY SPECIALISED TECHNICAL STAFF.
THE COMPANY IN 1970 STARTED TRAINING TECHNICIAN APPRENTICES ALONG THE LINES OF THE SCHEME PROPOSED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
MR. WILLIAMS’ SECOND STOP WAS THE CENTRAL TEXTILES (H.K.) LTD., AT SHA TSUI ROAD IN TSUEN WAN WHICH EMPLOYS ABOUT 1,500 WORKERS.
THIS COMPANY ALSO RUNS A CRAFT APPRENTICESHIP SCHEME OF THREE YEARS DURATION AND RECRUITS APPRENTICES THROUGH THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
AT THE END OF THE DAY’S VISIT MR. WILLIAMS PRAISED THE TWO COMPANIES’ FORWARD LOOKING POLICY IN RUNNING APPRENTICE SCHEMES AND IN PROVIDING GOOD WELFARE FACILITIES FOR THEIR STAFF INCLUDING MEDICAL FACILITIES. AMPEX FERROTEC PROVIDES PAID ANNUAL LEAVE OF BETWEEN SIX AND 10 DAYS DEPENDING ON THE WORKERS’ LENGTH OF SERVICE.
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SAN PO KONG FACTORIES TO BE SUMMONED
*****
SUMMONSES WILL BE TAKEN OUT AGAINST NINE FACTORIES IN SAN PO KONG FOR BREACHING FIRE SERVICES REGULATIONS.
THIS FOLLOWS A RETURN VISIT TODAY BY MORE THAN 50 FIRE OFFICERS TO THE INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS IN THE DISTRICT IN AN EFFORT TO REDUCE FIRE HAZARDS.
THE VISIT WAS THE RESULT OF A SURVEY MADE IN MARCH THIS YEAR DURING WHICH THE CONDITIONS IN MOST OF THE BUILDINGS INSPECTED WERE FOUND TO BE UNSATISFACTORY.
IN TODAY’S VISIT, 319 FACTORIES IN 16 INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS WERE INSPECTED. APART FROM THE SUMMONSES TO BE ISSUED SHORTLY, 24 FACTORY OWNERS WILL BE SERVED WITH FIRE HAZARD ABATEMENT NOTICES REQUIRING THEM TO CLEAR THE DANGERS WITHIN A STIPULATED PERIOD.
THE OFFICERS WILL CONTINUE THEIR INSPECTIONS IN THE AREA TOMORROW.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 1977
5
TRADE DISPUTE SETTLED * * * * *
THE TRADE DISPUTE AT THE WELTEX KNITTING GARMENT FACTORY IN KWAI CHUNG WAS AMICABLY SETTLED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) FOLLOWING MEDIATION BY LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S LABOUR RELATIONS SERVICE AND SUBSEQUENT DIRECT NEGOTIATIONS BETWEEN THE WORKERS AND THE MANAGEMENT.
THE DISPUTE AROSE LAST MONTH WHEN THE MANAGEMENT NOTIFIED THE WORKERS OF THEIR RETRENCHMENT AS OF JUNE 10.
AT A MEETING HELD AT THE TSUEN WAN OFFICE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT THE TWO SIDES SIGNED AN AGREEMENT IN WHICH THE MANAGEMENT PROMISED TO PAY SEVEN DAYS’ WAGES AS EX-GRATIA PAYMENT TO THE WORKERS.
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PR-33 i.
EIS
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
SUPPLEMENT
Wednesday, June 8, 1977
SILVER JUBILEE liEDAL
*****
Some 1^0 Hong Kong citizens have been awarded the Queen’s Silver Jubilee iiedal in recognition of their servioa to the community.
The medal is a personal award from the Queen to members of the Crown services and to others in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries and in the Dependent Territories.
among the Hong Kong recipients are the Governor, Sir hurray haeLehose, the Chief Secretary, Sir Denys Roberts, the Hon. Sir Y.K. Kan, the Hon. Dr. S.Y. Chung, hr. A. de G. Sales, hrs. Elsie Elliott, hr. Brook Bernac'chi and Sir Shiu-kin Tang.
Other recipients of the l.edal are:
The Hon. C-.P. Haddon-Cave, ChG, JP
The Hon. J.W.D. Hchley, Qfi, QC, Jf
Mr. D.C. Bray, CMG-, CVO
The Hon. LI Fook^kow, ChG, JP
The Hon. Sir Sidney Gordon, CBS, JP
The Hon. T.K. Ann, CBE, JP
The Hon. G.M. Sayer, JP
The Hon. Oswald Cheung, CBE, QC, JP
The Hon. Q..J. Lee, CBE,-JP
The non. hrs. Joyce Symons, OBE, JP The Hon. I.M. Lightbody, ChG, JP
/The Hon. D.H. Jordan,
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House. Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
2
The Hon. D.H. Jordan, CIG, MBE, JP The Hon. D. Akers-Jones, JP The Hon. L.M. Davies, CM3, 033, JP The Hon. D.W. McDonald, JP The Hon. K.W.J. Topley, CMG, JP The Hon. D.G. Jeaffreson, JP Mr. I.R. Price, OBE, TD The Hon. A.J. Scott, JP The Hon. G.C. Thornton, The Hon. E.H. Nichols, OBE, JP The Hon. Thomas C.Y. Lee, JP The Hon. D.J.C. Jones, JP Dr. The Hon. K.L. Thong, JP The Hon. R.E. Lobo, OBE, JP The Hon. P.G. williams, OBE, JP The Hon. James WU Lan-hon, QBE, JP The Hon. Hilton Cheong-Leen, OBE, JP The Hon. LI Fook-wo, OBE, JP The Hon. J.II. Brernridge, OBE, JP Dr. The Hon. Harry FANG Sin-yang, OBE, JP The Hon. Mrs. KWAN KO Siu-wah, OBE, JP The Hon. T.S. Lo, OBE, JP The Hon. Francis Y.H. Tien, OBE, JP The Hon. Alex WU Shu-chih, OBE, JP The Rev. The Hon. Joyce Bennett, JP The Hon. CHEN Shou-lum, JP The Hon. Liss Lydia Dunn, JP Dr. The Hon. Henry H.L. Hu, OBE, JP The Hon. LEUNG Tat-shing, JP The Rev. The Hon. P.T. McGovern, SJ, JP The Hon. Peter C. Wong, JP The Hon. WONG Lam, JP iir. S.T. Kidd, CBE iir. B.D. Wilson, JP Hr. J.C.C. Walden, JP
/hr. B.F.P. Slevin
Hr. B.F.P. Slevin, ChG., OBE, «>pL, CPh
The Hon. P.3. Jill|r.as,. JP .
Fir. R.E. Downing, OBE, JP
:□?. Donald P.H. Liao, UBE, JP
in?. R.V. Giddy, JP
lir. «. Fletcher, OBE
Mr. D.w.m. Llye, OBE, JP
nr. P. Jacobs, JP
Mr. F. Crabb, ED, 'JP
’nr. G.E. Lyth, OBE, JP
lir. F.J. Young, OBE, JP
lir. M. Addi
hr. T.G. Garner, JP
Mr. G.J. Bell, OBE, AS, JP
Sir Ronald Holmes, CHG, CBE, ED
Mr. J. Cater, CBE, JP
lir. H.i.,.G. Fprsgate, OBE, JP •
Mr. Kenneth T,.C. Lor OBE, JP
Dr. D.II.H. Huang
Mr. P.F. Chan, JP >
Hr. P.C.K. Chan
lir. John Mackenzie, JP
The Hon. Sir Sik-ni'n CHAU, CBE, JP
Sir Lindsay Ride, CBE, ED, JP
Sir Lav/rence Kadoorie, CBE, JP
The Hon. Sir Albert Rodrigues,' CBE, ED, JP
Tiie Hon. Sir Kenneth Ping-fan Fung, CBE, JP
The Eon. Sir Douglas Clague, CBE, iiC, ^Ph, CPH, TD, JP
The Hon. Sir Geoffrey Briggs
The Hon. Mr. Justice Huggins
The Hon. lir. Justice Pickering t
/hr. LIU Lit-mo, .......
4
hr. LIU Lit-uo, KB3, JP Mr. CHEUNG Yan-lung, ISE, JP Mr. Ctlrtli Siu-leun, MB3t JP Hr. M.C. Caswell ij?. G.3. Blundell, lUS i.r, J,... Fortune, ED, JP Hr. CILaRM Hoi-sang lire. Maxine LI KWOK Er. J.Lil? Yat-sen, .SB, JP hr. KO Tse-kin, MES ftp. Tong Kai-chuen Mr. LAM Ming-tak Mr. J.L. Marden, CBM, JP Col. H.A. de B. Botelho, OBE Major N.P. Pavri, ED Sergeant G.H. Austin Wing-Commander R.G. Penlington, AE Warrant Officer L*»j Shiu-kee, BEM, AE iir. Hamon YOUNG Chun-sheung, MBE, QPL, CPh, JP Aux. Pol. Sergeant CHUNG Man-sun Mr. T.C. Cheng, OBE,- JP Mrs. Marjorie Angus
• Hr. LUK Piu
Mr. F.M. Watson, QFSh, JP Principal Ambulanceman. LI Fat Station Sergeant CHUNG. Wing Sergeant YIP Kai Sergeant YUEN Tak-kuen Sergeant POON Kam-fai, CPi. Police Constable CHAN Shing Mr. H.V.L. Hatton Mr. TmNG Wing Mr. J.1'1. Rowlands Mr. D.C. Readman
Ar. T.H. Bashall
5
ir. T.. . Bashall
Sen. Sergeant CHUNG Yick-cheung
hr. A.r— Carroll, JP
i.r. LG i.an-wai, CL-., JP
i_r. 1-K3A11 ohing-kwan, CBE, Jr i.r. N.V.a. Croucher, JP iir. Peter henry SIN, JP iir. TS’O Tsun-on, OBE, JP hr. E.R. Childe, CBE, JP Dr. R.C. Lee, CBE, JP I-ir. LO liin-nung, JP Dr. YSCH Guan-eng, OBE, JP iir. TONG Shiu-cheung in*. LO Sze-hoi I-ir. LEUNG Chak i-ir. FUNG Shun iir. CHUI Eon Mr. LEUNG Wai Iir. SC Kwok-ying Mr. Augustus Lau Mr. LO Kai
0
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 1977
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
CHEUNG CHAU RURAL TOWNSHIP SCHEME ........................... 1
MASTERS URGED TO OBSERVE SAFETY REGULATIONS IN NAVIGATING SHIPS ......................................... 2
$4M SECONDARY SCHOOL FOR LANTAU ISLAND ...................... 3
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN TIN KOK LANE .............. 4
ADVICE ON HEALTH MEASURES TO PREVENT GASTRO-INTESTINAL DISEASES .................................................... 5
ANTI-NARCOTICS EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY PROGRAMME TO BE ANNOUNCED ................................................... 6
SEMINAR ON AIR POLLUTION .................................... 7
YOUNG MEETS OLD IN CALLIGRAPHY EXHIBITION ................... 8
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5'233191
THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 1977
1
CHEUNG CHAU RURAL TOWNSHIP SCHEME ******
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT (P.W.D.) IS ABOUT TO BEGIN A MAJOR DEVELOPMENT SCHEME AT CHEUNG CHAU AS PART OF THE GOVERNMENT’S RURAL TOWNSHIP SCHEME.
THE P.W.D. PLANS TO RECLAIM NEARLY 15 HECTARES OF FORESHORE AND SEABED ON THE NORTHWEST SIDE OF CHEUNG CHAU FOR PUBLIC AND VILLAGE TYPE HOUSING, LIGHT INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, OPEN SPACE, GOVERNMENT, INSTITUTIONAL AND COMMUNITY USE.
MR. KENNETH KWOK, ACTING GOVERNMENT ENGINEER OF THE P.W.D.'S NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY THAT THE PROPOSED PLAN IS TO PROVIDE BETTER HOMES AND FACILITIES FOR THE EXISTING POPULATION OF CHEUNG CHAU.
CHEUNG CHAU IS ONE OF EIGHT AREAS CHOSEN FOR DEVELOPMENT AS RURAL TOWNSHIPS IN AREAS OUTSIDE OF THE NEW TOWNS OF SHA TIN, TSUEN WAN AND TUEN MUN.
THE AIM OF THE RURAL TOWNSHIP PROGRAMME IS TO PROVIDE BETTER HOMES AND FACILITIES FOR ABOUT 350,000 PEOPLE LIVING IN THE NEW TERRITORIES AND ISLANDS.
THE PROGRAMME 15 BEING CO-ORDINATED BY THE NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT BRANCH 0- THE P.W.D.’S NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT.
MR. KWOK SAID THAT +AS IN THE NEW TOWNS, THE AIM IS TO PROVIDE BALANCED DEVELOPMENT WITH ALL BASIC FACILITIES AND ESSENTIAL SERVICES FOR THE RESIDENTS.*
+APART FROM HOUSING, THESE WILL INCLUDE SCHOOLS, CLINICS, COMMUNITY HALLS, SHOPPING CENTRES AND RECREATIONAL AREAS.*
+IN ADDITION SI“ES WILL BE PROVIDED FOR PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT AND COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL USE,* MR. KWOK SAID.
HE SAID THAT, IN ADDITION, AT CHEUNG CHAU A SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS WILL BE BUILT ON THE LAND THAT IS TO BE RECLAIMED TO SERVE THE WHOLE OF THE ISLAND.
INCLUDED IN THE FIRST STAGE OF THE DEVELOPMENT IS THE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE COLLAPSED SEAWALL BESIDE THE EXISTING TOWN CENTRE AND THE RECLAMATION OF ABOUT A HECTARE OF LAND THERE WHICH WILL BECOME AVAILABLE FOR VILLAGE-TYPE DEVELOPMENT.
DETAILED DESIGN FOR MUCH OF THE REQUIRED ENGINEERING AND BUILDING WORKS BY VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS AND OFFICES, INCLUDING THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT, IS EITHER IN HAND OR UNDERWAY.
/THE NOTICE .....
THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 1977
2
THE NOTICE (IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE) AND PLANS FOR THE FIRST STAGE OF THE DEVELOPMENT AT CHEUNG CHAU CAN BE SEEN ON NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITE.
THE PLAN SHOWING THE AREA OF FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED CAN ALSO BE SEEN AT THE PORT WORKS DIVISION, 5TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, OR THE CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY OFFICE, 19TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, OR THE DISTRICT OFFICE (ISLANDS), INTERNATIONAL BUILDING, 4TH FLOOR, 141 DES VOEUX ROAD, CENTRAL.
MASTERS URGED TO OBSERVE SAFETY REGULATIONS IN NAVIGATING SHIPS KO*
THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR. M.J. ALEXANDER, HAS URGED ALL MASTERS OF VESSELS TO OBSERVE THE INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS FOR PREVENTING COLLISIONS AT SEA WHEN NAVIGATING IN RESTRICTED VISIBILITY.
A RECENT COLLISION IN HONG KONG WATERS EMPHASISED THE NEED FOR MASTERS OF ALL VESSELS WHEN NAVIGATING IN RESTRICTED VISIBILITY TO COMPLY STRICTLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS FOR PREVENTING COLLISIONS AT SEA, HE SAID.
IT ALSO INDICATED THAT WHEN USING RADAR WITHOUT THE BENEFIT OF ADEQUATE PLOTTING FACILITIES THE INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM THE RADAR SHOULD BE REGARDED AS SCANTY AND CONSTRUED ACCORDINGLY, HE ADDED.
MASTERS ARE REMINDED OF THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE USE OF RADAR INFORMATION AS AN AID TO AVOIDING COLLISIONS AT SEA ANNEXED TO THE INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS FOR PREVENTING COLLISIONS AT SEA I960, WHICH SHOULD BE BORNE IN MIND AT ALL TIMES WHEN NAVIGATING WITH THE AID OF RADAR IN RESTRICTED VISIBILITY.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 1977
$4M SECONDARY SCHOOL FOR LANTAU ISLAND
* * * * *
THE DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATION IN THE NEW TERRITORIES RECEIVED ANOTHER BOOST TODAY WITH THE LAYING OF THE FOUNDATION STONE FOR THE FIRST GOVERNMENT SUBSIDISED SECONDARY SCHOOL ON LANTAU ISLAND.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES, OFFICIATED AT THE CEREMONY FOR THE $4 MILLION BUDDHIST FAT HO MEMORIAL COLLEGE AT TAI 0 ON THE ISLAND.
THE COLLEGE, THE FOURTH TO BE SPONSORED BY THE HONG KONG BUDDHIST ASSOCIATION, IS SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION BEFORE THE END OF THIS YEAR. IT WILL PROVIDE PLACES FOR 400 STUDENTS.
THE PROJECT OCCUPIES A 30,000 SQ. FT. SITE GRANTED BY THE GOVERNMENT AND ALSO FINANCED BY A GOVERNMENT SUBSIDY OF $3.35 MILLION. THE REST IS BEING DONATED BY THE PO LIN MONASTERY.
IN A SPEECH DELIVERED IN CANTONESE, MR. AKERS-JONES SA ID THE NEW SCHOOL FORMED PART OF THE OVERALL DEVELOPMENT OF TAI 0.
NEAR THE SCHOOL IS THE SITE FOR PUBLIC HOUSING FOR TAI 0, HE SAID, AND THIS WILL IMPROVE HOUSING CONDITIONS FOR 3,000 PEOPLE AS PART OF THE PROGRAMME TO PROVIDE HOUSING NOT ONLY IN THE NEW TOWNS BUT ELSEWHERE WHERE THERE IS A SIGNIFICANT LOCAL NEED.
+THE BUILDING OF THE SCHOOL, THE PROVISION OF HOUSING AND FACILITIES FOR RECREATION, COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES, SHOPPING AND SMALL INDUSTRY WILL TRANSFORM TAI 0 OVER THE COURSE OF THE NEXT FEW YEARS,+ HE SAID.
MR. AKERS-JONES PRAISED THE HONG KONG BUDDHIST ASSOCIATION AND THE PO LIN MONASTERY FOR THEIR EFFORTS AND ENTHUSIASM IN THE FIELD OF EDUCATION AND OTHER SOCIAL ACHIEVEMENTS.
HE SAID THE SCHOOL PROJECT REPRESENTED A COMBINED CONTRIBUTION FROM, AND COOPERATION BETWEEN, THE ASSOCIATION AND THE GOVERNMENT.
+A SIMILAR EFFORT WILL BE MADE IN THE BUILDING OF ANOTHER SECONDARY SCHOOL NEAR MUI WO, TO WHICH THE HEUNG YEE KUK IS MAKING CONTRIBUTION, ON THE OTHER CORNER OF THE ISLAND IN THE FUTURE,* HE SAID.
EARLIER, MR. WONG WAN-TIN, VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE HONG KONG BUDDHIST ASSOCIATION, SAID THE SCHOOL WAS NAMED AFTER THE LATE REV. FAT HO WHO WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR RENOVATING AND REORGANISING THE PO LIN MONASTERY, THE LARGEST IN HONG KONG.
MR. WONG SAID THE ASSOCIATION ALWAYS HAD THE GOAL OF HELPING THOSE IN NEED, WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON EDUCATION AND SOCIAL WELFARE WORK.
ABY SEPTEMBER
THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 1977
4
I
+BY SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR, WHEN THIS COLLEGE AND ANOTHER SECONDARY SCHOOL AND PRIMARY SCHOOL ARE COMPLETED, WE SHALL HAVE FIVE SECONDARY SCHOOLS PROVIDING 3,700 PLACES, 10 SUBSIDISED PRIMARY SCHOOLS WITH 20,000 PLACES, AND THREE KINDERGARTENS WITH 1,500 PLACES,+ HE SAID.
ALTOGETHER, THERE WILL BE 25,200 PLACES, 42 PER CENT OF WHICH ARE IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, HE ADDED.
IN THE NEAR FUTURE, MR. WONG SAID, THE ASSOCIATION WOULD CONCENTRATE ON BUILDING MORE SECONDARY SCHOOLS, MAINLY IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, TO COPE WITH THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY.
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TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS TO BE INTRODUCED IN TIN LOK LANE
* * * * *
A NUMBER OF TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN TIN LOK LANE, WANCHAI, FROM 10 A.M. ON SUNDAY TO FACILITATE CABLE DIVERSION WORKS BY THE HONG KONG TELEPHONE COMPANY.
THE TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS, WHICH WILL LAST FOR ABOUT ONE WEEK, ARE AS FOLLOWS:
* ALL MOTOR VEHICLES IN HENNESSY ROAD WESTBOUND AND EASTBOUND, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF FRANCHISED BUSES, WILL EE PROHIBITED FROM TURNING LEFT OR RIGHT INTO TIN LOK LANE SOUTHBOUND=
* ALL MOTOR VEHICLES IN WAN CHAI ROAD EASTBOUND, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF FRANCHISED BUSES, WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM TURNING LEFT INTO TIN LOK LANE NORTHBOUND’ AND
* ALL MOTOR VEHICLES IN THE NORTHBOUND SECTION OF MORRISON HILL ROAD SOUTH OF ITS JUNCTION WITH WAN CHAI ROAD, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF FRANCHISED BUSES AND TRAMS, WILL BE DIVERTED INTO WAN CHAI ROAD WESTBOUND.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE ERECTED TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 1977
5
ADVICE ON HEALTH MEASURES TO PREVENT GASTRO-INTESTINAL DISEASES
* * * * * * *
THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT TODAY ADVISED THE PUBLIC TO TAKE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES AGAINST THE POSSIBLE OUTBREAK OF CERTAIN GASTRO-INTESTINAL DISEASES WHICH TEND TO BECOME PREVALENT IN THE WARM SEASON.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID WITH THE ARRIVAL OF THE WARM WEATHER THE PUBLIC SHOULD PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO PERSONAL, FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE, WHICH IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE METHOD IN PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF THESE DISEASES.
COMMONLY ASSOCIATED WITH THE WARM WEATHER ARE SUCH DISEASES AS TYPHOID FEVER, DYSENTERY, FOOD POISONING AND VIRAL HEPATITIS.
AS MOST GASTRO-INTESTINAL DISEASES ARE TRANSMITTED THROUGH CONTAMINATED FOOD AND DRINK, OR NEGLECT IN PERSONAL HYGIENE, THE SPOKESMAN URGED THE PUBLIC TO BE +EXTRA CAUTIOUS+ IN EATING, PARTICULARLY WHEN THEY EAT AT PUBLIC PLACES.
HE WARNED THAT IMPROPERLY COOKED FOOD COULD CAUSE INFECTION AND FURTHER ADVISED THAT PROPERLY COOKED FOOD, IF NOT EATEN IMMEDIATELY, SHOULD NOT BE LEFT UNCOVERED AND EXPOSED TO CONTAMINATION.
PROPER STORAGE OF PREPARED FOOD WOULD ALSO REDUCE THE RISK OF FOOD POISONING, PARTICULARLY IN THE HOT WEATHER.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO REMINDED THAT AT A TIME OF WATER RESTRICTION, ALL DRINKING WATER SHOULD BE BOILED, ESPECIALLY WATER STORED IN CONTAINERS SUCH AS TANKS, BUCKETS OR BINS.
AS FOR OTHER PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES, THE PUBLIC NEED ONLY TO OBSERVE SOME SIMPLE RULES OF PERSONAL HYGIENE, SUCH AS WASHING OF HANDS BEFORE MEALS AND AFTER VISITS TO TOILETS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANLINESS, SUCH AS PROPER DISPOSAL OF REFUSE AND EXCRETA, IS MOST ESSENTIAL IN PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF DISEASES, HE ADDED.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO WARNED THE PUBLIC TO BE ON THE ALERT IN PREVENTING THE OCCURRENCE OF + RED EYE+ DISEASE, WHICH IS QUITE COMMON DURING THE SWIMMING SEASON.
AN OUTBREAK OF THE HIGHLY INFECTIOUS DISEASE OCCURRED IN THE SUMMER OF 1975, WHEN MORE THAN 10,000 PEOPLE WERE TREATED IN THE GOVERNMENT’S EYE CLINICS IN SEPTEMBER OF THAT YEAR ALONE.
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT THE COMMONEST MEANS OF SPREADING THE DISEASE IS THROUGH CONTACT IN PUBLIC PLACES SUCH AS SWIMMING POOLS AND AMONG FAMILIES.
/♦IT IS
THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 197?
6
+IT IS, THEREFORE, IMPORTANT THAT PEOPLE SUFFERING FROM THE DISEASE SHOULD STAY AWAY FROM PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS, AND IF A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY HAS CONTRACTED THE DISEASE, THE OTHER MEMBERS SHOULD TAKE CARE NOT TO SHARE THE SAME TOWEL OR HANDKERCHIEF,* HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT ALTHOUGH THERE HAD BEEN NO LOCAL CASES OF CHOLERA SINCE 1969 THE PUBLIC MUST NOT BE TEMPTED TO RELAX THE PREVENTIVE MEASURES.
VACCINATIONS AGAINST THE COMMON INFECTIOUS DISEASES ARE AVAILABLE AT ALL GOVERNMENT GENERAL OUT-PATIENT CLINICS AND INOCULATION POSTS.
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ANTI-NARCOTICS EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY PROGRAMME TO BE ANNOUNCED
M * M *
NOTE TO EDITORS'.
A PRESS CONFERENCE TO ANNOUNCE THIS YEAR’S ANTI-NARCOTICS EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY PROGRAMME WILL EE HELD IN THE G.I.S. THEATRE ON THE 5TH F_OOR OF BEACONSFIELD HOUSE ON MONDAY (JUNE 13) AT 2.30 P.M.
SPEAKERS AT THE CONFERENCE WILL BE MR. E.l. LEE, COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, AND DR. K.L. STUMPF, CHAIRMAN OF ACAN’S PREVENTIVE EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY SUB-COMMITTEE.
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE PRESS CONFERENCE.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 1977
7
SEMINAR ON AIR POLLUTION
* * * M
ABOUT 400 TEACHERS AND STUDENT LEADERS ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND A SEMINAR ON SATURDAY MORNING (JUNE 11) ON +PROJECT WINDSHIFT+, AN EXPERIMENT DESIGNED TO PRODUCE UNIQUE LOCAL WIND PATTERN DATA TO ASSIST IN THE FIGHT AGAINST AIR POLLUTION.
THE SEMINAR, TO BE HELD AT THE TRUE LIGHT GIRLS’ COLLEGE IN WATERLOO ROAD, IS ORGANISED BY THE CONSERVANCY ASSOCIATION, THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY, THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT. THE SPONSORS ARE RANK XEROX LTD.
THE SEMINAR WILL BE OPENED BY THE DEPUTY CHIEF INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS, MRS. LOUISE MOK.
THE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL UNIT OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS ANALYSED THE OBSERVATION REPORTS SENT IN BY 49 PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS, THROUGH THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
A FINAL REPORT HAS BEEN COMPILED BY THE UNIT. DURING THE SEMINAR AN ILLUSTRATED TALK ON THE REPORT WILL BE GIVEN BY MR. M.K. CHUNG OF THE UNIT. THE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL OFFICER, MR. D. NEWBURY WILL PRESENT BANNERS TO 19 SCHOOLS WHICH SENT IN OUTSTANDING OBSERVATION REPORTS OF +PROJECT WINDSHIFT+.
THE PRESIDENT 0- THE CONSERVANCY ASSOCIATION, DR. L.K. DING, WILL PRESENT A COPY OF THE FINAL REPORT TO MR. LAWRENCE LUNG, SALES MANAGER OF RANK XEROX.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO HAVE THE SEMINAR COVERED. THE TWO-HOUR SEMINAR WILL BEGIN AT 10 A.M. ON SATURDAY AT TRUE LIGHT GIRLS’ COLLEGE, 54A, WATERLOO ROAD, KOWLOON.
THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 1977
- 8
YOUNG MEETS OLD IN CALLIGRAPHY EXHIBITION * * * * *
YOUNG AND OLD CALLIGRAPHERS AND PAINTERS IN HONG KONG, RANGING IN AGE FROM TEENS TO EIGHTIES, WILL MEET THIS WEEKEND WHEN THEIR WORKS WILL BE DISPLAYED AT AN EXHIBITION IN THE CITY HALL EXHIBITION HALL.
THE EXHIBITION, FOR THE APPRECIATION OF CHINESE CALLIGRAPHY AND FOR SHOWING WINNING WORKS OF A YOUTH CULTURAL AND ARTS COMPETITION, HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY ABOUT 40 VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS, INCLUDING THE VARIOUS LIONS CLUBS, JAYCEES AND KAIFONGS, AND IS SPONSORED BY THE HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT.
APART FROM WORKS BY YOUNG ARTISTS IN WESTERN PAINTING, THE EXHIBITION WILL FEATURE MANY MASTERPIECES BY CONTEMPORARY CALLIGRAPHERS.
IT IS HOPED THAT THE EXHIBITION WILL PROMOTE CHINESE TRADITIONAL ART, ENHANCE YOUNG PEOPLE’S INTEREST IN THE STUDY OF CHINESE CALLIGRAPHY, ENCOURAGE YOUNG TALENT, AND PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTIST STUDENTS TO LEARN FROM EACH OTHER.
THE DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS, MR. CHUI KAM, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY ON SATURDAY (JUNE 11) AT 2.30 P.M.
MR. T.C. CHENG, THE PRO-VICE CHANCELLOR OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, WILL PRESENT COMMEMORATIVE SHIELDS TO THE CALLIGRAPHERS.
ARTISTS OF WORLD RENOWN, INCLUDING PROFESSOR CHAO SHAO-ONG, MR. CHAN KING-HUNG, MR. CHUI TAM-MAN AND MR. CHAN FOOK-SIN, WILL DEMONSTRATE IMPROMPTU PAINTING AND CALLIGRAPHY AFTER THE CEREMONY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
THE OPENING CEREMONY AT THE CITY HALL EXHIBITION HALL WILL BE HELD AT 2.30 P.M. SHARP ON SATURDAY. THERE WILL BE A TEA PARTY RECEPTION BEFORE THE CEREMONY. YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER TO COVER THE EVENT.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 1977
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS ...................................... 1
STIFFER PENALTIES FOR THROWING OR DROPPING OBJECTS FROM BUILDINGS PROPOSED ............................................ 1
GOVERNMENT TO MAXIMISE WATER YIELD ..................’......... 2
BILL AIMS TO EFFECTIVELY STOP AIDING AND ABETTING OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS .........................................
SILVERMINE BAY DEVELOPMENT TO BEGIN SOON ...................... 4
PLAN TO REMOVE CONGESTION IN ABERDEEN HARBOUR ................. 5
REVISED LIST OF CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS AND TRUSTS EXEMPT FROM TAX PUBLISHED ............................................ r
PUBLIC LIGHT BUS RESTRICTION IN TAI PO ......................
P.W.D.
OFFICE
S LANDS AND SURVEY DEPARTMENT PARTLY MOVES TO NEW
REPORTS ON MANPOWER SURVEYS OF INDUSTRIES .....................
SHIPBUILDING AND ELECTRONICS
8
FIRST PHILHARMONIC CONCERT IN N.T
SPECIAL D.I.B. SUPPLEMENT s QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS LIST
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 1977
QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS LIST *****
NOTE TO EDITORS s
COPIES OF A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO TODAY’S (FRIDAY) DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN CONTAINING A LIST OF HONG KONG RECIPIENTS OF QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS ARE DISTRIBUTED IN THE PRESS BOXES, GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES, THIS EVENING.
PUBLICATION IS PERMITTED IN HONG KONG NEWSPAPERS TOMORROW (SATURDAY) MORNING BUT NO NEWS AGENCY OR OVERSEAS RADIO MAY CARRY THE INFORMATION WITHOUT THE EMBARGO QUALIFICATION. THE NEWS MAY BE BROADCAST FROM 6 A.M. ONWARDS OVER THE LOCAL RADIO AND TELEVISION STATIONS TOMORROW.
ON NO ACCOUNT SHOULD ANY OF THE RECIPIENTS OF HONOURS BE CONTACTED FOR INTERVIEWS OR FOR INFORMATION RELATIVE TO THEIR CAREERS OR BE APPROACHED IN ANY WAY IN CONNECTION WITH THEIR AWARDS BEFORE THESE HAVE BEEN PUBLICLY ANNOUNCED.
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INCREASED PENALTIES FOR THROWING OR DROPPING OBJECTS FROM BUILDINGS *****
THE GOVERNMENT PLANS TO INTRODUCE STIFFER PENALTIES TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC AGAINST OBJECTS BEING THROWN OR DROPPED FROM BUILDINGS.
THE PROPOSED NEW PENALTIES ARE CONTAINED IN A BILL TO AMEND THE SUMMARY OFFENCES ORDINANCE. THE BILL IS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY FOR PUBLIC INFORMATION AND WILL SHORTLY BE PUT TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
UNDER THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS, ANYONE WHO THROWS, DROPS OR ALLOWS AN OBJECT TO FALL FROM A BUILDING WHICH ENDANGERS THE PUBLIC WILL BE LIABLE TO A FINE OF 310,300 AND IMPRISONMENT FOR SIX MONTHS AS AGAINST THE PRESENT PENALTY OF A 3500 FINE AND THREE MONTHS IMPRISONMENT.
THE NEW PROVISIONS ALSO MAKE THE OCCUPIER OF THAT PART OF THE BUILDING FROM WHICH THE OBJECT WAS THROWN OR DROPPED, GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE.
IN THE CASE OF BUILDINGS THAT ARE BEING CONSTRUCTED, REPAIRED OR DECORATED, THE PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR ON THE SITE AND THE CONTRACTOR CARRYING OUT THE WORK WILL BE HELD RESPONSIBLE AND WOULD BE LIABLE TO A FINE OF 350,033 AND ONE YEAR’S IMPRISONMENT.
IT WILL BE A DEFENCE, HOWEVER, IF THE OCCUPIER OR THE CONTRACTOR CAN PROVE TO THE SATISFACTION OF THE COURT THAT HE COULD NOT HAVE REASONABLY PREVENTED THE OBJECT FROM BEING DROPPED OR ALLOWED TO FALL FROM THE BUILDING TO THE DANGER OF THE PUBLIC OR THAT REASONABLE MEASURES HAD BEEN TAKEN BY HIMSELF OR ANOTHER PERSON TO PREVENT IT HAPPENING.
FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 1977
2 -
GOVERNMENT TO MAXIMISE WATER YIELD * * * *
HONG KONG MUST LOOK TO MAXIMISING THE WATER YIELD FROM PRESENT RESOURCES, EXPLOITING ALL POSSIBLE NEW SOURCES AND DOING EVERYTHING POSSIBLE TO AVOID WASTE, THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT’S GOVERNMENT WATER ENGINEER (DEVELOPMENT AND PLANNING), MR. LAU TO-HIN SAID TONIGHT.
WITH HONG KONG’S WATER DEMAND EXPECTED TO INCREASE BY SIX PER CENT EACH YEAR, MR. LAU SAID: +OUR CURRENTLY AVAILABLE RESOURCES, EVEN INCLUDING THE HIGH ISLAND WATER SCHEME WHICH IS NEARING COMPLETION, WILL BE FULLY COMMITTED ONE DAY.+
IN A SPEECH TO THE LIONS CLUB OF KOWLOON TONG, MR. LAU SAID THAT FUTURE ADDITIONS TO HONG KONG’S WATER RESOURCES WOULD PROBABLY FALL WITHIN THREE CATEGORIES:
* DEVELOPMENT OF MARGINAL WATER CATCHMENTS. CONSIDERATION WAS NOW BEING GIVEN TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF POTENTIAL CATCHMENT AREAS WHICH HAD REMAINED UNTAPPED IN THE PAST BECAUSE THEY WERE CONSIDERED TOO REMOTE, OR THEIR DEVELOPMENT UNECONOMICAL.
* DESALTING OF SEA WATER - THE FEASIBILITY OF DESALTING SEA WATER HAD BEEN ESTABLISHED. UNFORTUNATELY UNEXPECTED HIGH FUEL COSTS HAD INCREASED THE COST OF WATER PRODUCED BY EXISTING TECHNOLOGY. THIS DRAWBACK WAS BEING FELT WORLD WIDE, HE SAID, AND SCIENTISTS AND MANUFACTURERS WERE NOW CONCENTRATING ON DEVELOPING NEW DESALTING TECHNOLOGIES WHICH WOULD REQUIRE LESS ENERGY FOR THE PROCESS.
+ALREADY THEY HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN PRODUCING SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED PLANTS. NO DOUBT WITH FURTHER DEVELOPMENT, LARGE SCALE PLANTS WITH CHEAPER PRODUCTION COSTS WILL BE AVAILABLE IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS,+ HE ADDED.
* INCREASED SUPPLY FROM CHINA. AT PRESENT CHINA SUPPLIES 24,000 MILLION GALLONS A YEAR OR ABOUT 27 PER CENT OF HONG KONG’S ANNUAL CONSUMPTION.
MR. LAU WENT ON TO DRAW ATTENTION TO RECENT ADVANCES OVERSEAS IN THE RE-USE OF WATER.
HE QUOTED A REPORT THAT MODERN TECHNOLOGY WAS QUITE CAPABLE OF PRODUCING FRESH WATER FROM WASTE WATER WHICH WAS PERFECTLY SUITABLE FOR CONSUMPTION FROM WATER QUALITY AND HEALTH POINTS OF VIEW, BUT THE HUMAN PSYCHOLOGICAL BARRIER STILL HAD TO BE OVERCOME.
MR. LAU SAID HE WAS NOT SUGGESTING THAT HONG KONG WAS REACHING THIS STAGE YET, BUT WITH THE ART SUFFICIENTLY REFINED AND SUCH USAGE ACCEPTED ELSEWHERE, THERE SHOULD BE NO REASON FOR HONG KONG NEGLECTING THIS PROBABILITY.
•» — ■■ ■ ■■ ■ I ■■ —J—
/MR. ur .......
FRIDAY, JUNE 1C, '977
- 3 -
MR. LAU SAID HONG KONG’S PRESENT WATER SUPPLY WAS HEAVILY DEPENDENT ON ADEQUATE RAINFALL DURING THE WET SEASON BETWEEN MAY AND OCTOBER TO PROVIDE US WITH SUFFICIENT'WATER SUPPLY FOR OUR DAILY NEEDS AND SURPLUS TO BE STORED IN THE RESERVOIRS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE FOLLOWING DRY SEASON.
+BUT AFTER SUCH A LONG DRY SPELL AS WE HAVE EXPERIENCED, QUITE A LARGE VOLUME OF STORAGE HAS BEEN CONSUMED.+
AND THE RAIN SO FAR HAS BEEN INSUFFICIENT TO REPLENISH THE DEPLETED STORAGES, HE ADDED.
+WITH ONE QUARTER OF THE RAINY SEASON GONE, THE TOTAL STORAGE OF THE RESERVOIRS HAS REMAINED FAR BELOW THAT IN THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD LAST YEAR BECAUSE OF THE RARE DROUGHT IN WINTER AND SPRING, AND THE SHORTAGE OF RAIN AT THE BEGINNING OF SUMMER.*
+ IN VIEW OF THE SITUATION, THE WATER SUPPLY DEPARTMENT HAD TO ACT CAREFULLY FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF A SUPPLY FOR THE PEOPLE.*
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PROPOSED BILL AGAINST AIDING AND ABETTING OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS *****
A BILL WHICH AIMS TO EFFECTIVELY STOP THE AIDING AND ABETTING OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
AT PRESENT, PROSECUTIONS AGAINST AIDERS AND ABETTORS OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS ARE HAMPERED BECAUSE OF THE DIFFICULTY OF PROVING TO A COURT THAT THE PERSON SO AIDED AND ABETTED IS AN ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT.
UNDER THE PROPOSED IMMIGRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, WHICH IS TO BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SHORTLY, A CERTIFICATE SIGNED BY THE DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION COULD BE INTRODUCED INTO ANY PROCEEDINGS FOR AN OFFENCE OF THIS NATURE TO ESTABLISH THAT THE PERSON AIDED AND ABETTED HAS NO RIGHT TO LAND IN HONG KONG.
COMMENTING ON THE BILL, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SAID: +SECTION 64 OF THE IMMIGRATION ORDINANCE WHICH REQUIRES AN ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT TO PROVE THAT HE HAS A STATUS TO WHICH ENTITLES HIM TO LAND IN HONG KONG WITHOUT PERMISSION CANNOT ASSIST IN THE CASE OF A PROSECUTION FOR AIDING, ABETTING, COUNSELLING OR PROCURING THE COMMISSION OF ANOTHER OF AN OFFENCE OF LANDING WITHOUT PERMISSION OR OF CONSPIRING TO AID, ABET, COUNSEL OR PROCURE THE COMMISSION OF ANOTHER OF SUCH AN OFFENCE.*
+IN THESE CIRCUMSTANCES THE ONUS MUST REST WITH THE CROWN TO PROVE THAT THE PERSON SO AIDED, ABETTED, COUNSELLED OR PROCURED IS AN ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT,* HE ADDED.
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/4....
FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 1977
4
SILVERMINE BAY DEVELOPMENT TO START NEXT MONTH K * * * * M
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT (P.W.D.) IS ABOUT TO BEGIN THE FIRST STAGE OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF MUI WO (SILVERMINE BAY) ON LANTAU ISLAND AS A RURAL TOWNSHIP, PROVIDING LAND FOR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE HOUSING, A NEW BUS TERMINUS AND A NEW FERRY CONCOURSE.
ABOUT FIVE HECTARES OF LAND WILL BE FORMED IN THE FIRST STAGE TO PROVIDE SITES FOR A NEW AND IMPROVED BUS TERMINUS, WATERFRONT COOKED FOOD STALLS, PUBLIC HOUSING AND COMMERCIAL AND LIGHT INDUSTRIAL USE.
THE P.W.D.’S ACTING GOVERNMENT ENGINEER (NEW TERRITORIES), MR. KENNETH KWOK, SAID TODAY THAT A SEAWALL 240 METRES IN LENGTH WILL BE BUILT IN THE BAY TO CONTAIN THE NEWLY FORMED LAND.
+ABOUT 3.2 HECTARES WILL BE RECLAIMED INITIALLY USING FILL MATERIAL FROM A BORROW AREA ON THE TOP OF THE BARREN HILL, SOUTH OF THE WORK SITE.
+A NEW ROAD WILL BE BUILT TO THE TOP OF THE HILL,+ MR. KWOK SAID, +WHICH WILL SERVE AS AN ACCESS ROAD TO THE COUNTRY PARK TO BE CREATED THERE AFTER WE HAVE FINISHED USING IT AS A BORROW SITE.+
ALSO INCLUDED IN THE STAGE 1 WORKS ARE THE CONSTRUCTION OF 1.1 KILOMETRES OF TWO-LANE ROAD AND 2.7 KILOMETRES OF FOUL WATER DRAINS.
MR. KWOK SAID THAT THE INITIAL STAGE OF THE SILVERMINE BAY DEVELOPMENT IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN NEXT MONTH.
EVENTUALLY A TOTAL OF 46 HECTARES OF THE AREA MAY BE DEVELOPED TO PROVIDE ALL THE NECESSARY FACILITIES FOR A TOTAL POPULATION OF ABOUT 8,500 PEOPLE, AND FOR THE MANY THOUSANDS OF VISITORS TO THE ISLAND.
IN THE RURAL TOWNSHIP PROGRAMME, BETTER HOMES AND FACILITIES WILL BE PROVIDED FOR A TOTAL OF 350,000 IN RURAL AREAS OUTSIDE OF THE NEW TOWNS OF SHA TIN, TSUEN WAN AND TUEN MUN. SILVERMINE BAY IS ONE OF EIGHT AREAS LISTED FOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE PROGRAMME.
MR. KWOK SAID THAT CONSULTANTS ARE NOW DRAWING UP DETAILED PLANS FOR HOUSING AND OTHER FACILITIES AT SILVERMINE BAY.
+AS WELL AS THE SHORE DEVELOPMENT, THERE WILL EVENTUALLY BE A NEW TWO BERTH FERRY PIER WITH VEHICULAR RAMP, CARGO HANDLING AREA, STEPS AND LANDING FOR PUBLIC USE AND ABOUT 330 METRES OF BOAT ANCHORAGE AREA IN THE MAIN RIVER CHANNEL.+
FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 1977
5
PLAN TO REMOVE CONGESTION IN ABERDEEN HARBOUR ******
STATIONARY CRAFT IN ABERDEEN WEST WILL HAVE TO BE MOVED ON A PHASED BASIS TO ANOTHER PART OF THE HARBOUR IN A PLAN TO REMOVE CONGESTION.
THIS WAS DISCLOSED BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF MARINE (PORT ADMINISTRATION), MR. W.D. LEIGHTON, AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF KOWLOON NORTH TODAY.
+ THIS MEANS THAT, FOR EXAMPLE, THE THREE VERY POPULAR FLOATING RESTAURANTS WILL SHORTLY HAVE TO BE RELOCATED IN ABERDEEN SOUTH OPPOSITE SHUM WAN, AT WHICH LOCATION MEASURES ARE ALREADY WELL ADVANCED TO PROVIDE PROPER LANDING FACILITIES, ROADWAYS AND CAR PARKING FACILITIES,* MR. LEIGHTON SAID.
HE EXPLAINED THAT SCHEDULED DEVELOPMENTS IN ABERDEEN WOULD RESULT IN CONSIDERABLE RECLAMATIONS BEING UNDERTAKEN ALONG THE WATERFRONT AND THE FORESHORE OF AP LEI CHAU BOUNDING THE PORT.
+THESE RECLAMATIONS AND DEVELOPMENTS WILL RESULT IN A LOSS OF 25 ACRES OF WATER SPACE IN ABERDEEN WEST WHICH WILL AGGRAVATE AN ALREADY GRAVE SITUATION UNLESS STEPS ARE TAKEN TO ALLEVIATE THE CHRONIC CONGESTION WHICH PERTAINS THERE,* HE SAID.
HE NOTED THAT THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE HAD ALREADY EVOLVED A POLICY, AGREED BY GOVERNMENT, THAT ABERDEEN WEST MUST BE DEVELOPED AS AN EFFICIENT PORT FOR THE FISHING INDUSTRY AND ALLIED TRADES, WHILST ABERDEEN SOUTH MUST BE FULLY EXPLOITED TO CATER FOR THOSE OTHER VESSELS WHICH USE ABERDEEN AS A BASE BUT WHICH HAVE NO DIRECT CONNECTIONS WITH THE FISHING INDUSTRY.
HE SAID NO DOUBT THESE DEVELOPMENTS AND PROJECTED MOVEMENTS, OCCURRING OVER A COMPARATIVELY SHORT PERIOD OF TIME, WOULD BE RESENTED BY SOME PEOPLE WHO WOULD BE AFFECTED ONE WAY OR ANOTHER.
HE REGRETTED THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE INCONVENIENCED PARTICULARLY WHERE THIS MAY UPSET THEIR DAILY ROUTINES, AND POSSIBLY ALSO INVOLVE THEM IN SOME EXPENSE. THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR SAID, HOWEVER, THAT THESE CHANGES ARE +INEVITABLE IN EVERYONE’S BEST INTEREST.*
ON THE GENERAL ADMINISTRATION AND CONTROL OF HONG KONG WATERS, FOR WHICH HE IS RESPONSIBLE, MR. LEIGHTON TOLD THE ROTARIANS THAT THERE V'ERE SOME 350 SQUARE MILES OF THESE WATERS AND 16 DESIGNATED PORTS, INCLUDING HONG KONG HARBOUR AND ABERDEEN.
TO ILLUSTRATE THE INTENSE SEABORNE ACTIVITY, MR. LEIGHTON POINTED OUT THAT MORE THAN 8,000 OCEAN-GOING SHIPS ENTERED AND CLEARED THE HARBOUR LAST YEAR, TO DISCHARGE 15.5 MILLION LONG TONS AND LOADED 5.7 MILLION LONG TONS OF CARGO.
/IN ADDITION......
FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 1977
- 6 -
IN ADDITION, HE CONTINUED, ANOTHER 1.6 MILLION LONG TONS OF CARGO WERE DISCHARGED AND 187,000 LONG TONS LOADED, BY OVER 35,000 RIVER-TRADE VESSELS EVERY YEAR.
+T0 STIR THINGS UP A BIT MORE, HOWEVER, WE HAVE TO ADD TO THE MIXTURE A FURTHER 16,647 SMALL CRAFT OF ALL DESCRIPTIONS WHICH PLY THEIR TRADE LOCALLY. THESE LATTER CRAFT NOT ONLY PROVIDE WORK AND A LIVELIHOOD FOR THEIR CREWS BUT IN MANY CASES, A HOME ALSO,+ HE SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT ANY UNDUE DELAY IN ENSURING THE QUICK TURNAROUND OF SHIPS WOULD INVOLVE INCREASED COSTS WHICH, INEVITABLY WOULD HAVE TO BE BORNE IN THE FINAL ANALYSIS BY THE CONSUMER IN HONG KONG.
+S0, ONE OF THE REASONS FOR KEEPING PRICES STABLE AND AT A REASONABLE LEVEL IN HONG KONG MAY BE ATTRIBUTED TO EFFICIENT PORT OPERATIONS.+ HE SAID.
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TAX RELIEF FOR APPROVED CHARITABLE DONATION *****
A REVISED LIST OF CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS AND TRUSTS WHICH HAVE BEEN RECOGNISED ON MAY 31, 1977, AS EXEMPT FROM TAX UNDER SECTION 88 OF THE INLAND REVENUE ORDINANCE IS PUBLISHED IN SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT NO. 4 OF THE GAZETTE TODAY. THIS REVISED LIST SUPERSEDES ALL PREVIOUS ONES.
THE INLAND REVENUE ORDINANCE PROVIDES, SUBJECT TO CERTAIN LIMITATIONS, TAX RELIEF FOR PERSONS WHO MAKE DONATIONS OF MONEY TO ANY CHARITABLE INSTITUTION OR TRUST OF A PUBLIC CHARACTER.
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/7.....
FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 1977
PUBLIC LIGHT BUS RESTRICTION IN TAI PO X * * *
PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM PICKING UP OR SETTING DOWN PASSENGERS ALONG THE SECTION OF PO HEUNG STREET IN TAI PO FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH KWONG FUK ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 25 METRES TO THE NORTH, WITH EFFECT FROM 10 A.M. THIS MONDAY (JUNE 13).
A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT THE MEASURE WAS INTENDED TO RELIEVE TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT THE JUNCTION OF PO HEUNG STREET AND KWONG FUK ROAD.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO GUIDE PUBLIC LIGHT BUS DRIVERS.
0 - - - -
p.W.D.’S LANDS AND SURVEY DEPARTMENT NEW OFFICE
* * * *
THE VALUATION AND MODIFICATION DIVISION OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT’S LANDS AND SURVEY DEPARTMENT HAS NOW MOVED TO A NEW OFFICE ON 5TH AND 6TH FLOORS, AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL TOWER, QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL.
THE NEW OFFICE’S MAIN TELEPHONE EXCHANGE IS 5-260061.
PUBLIC ENQUIRIES MAY BE DIRECTED THROUGH THIS NUMBER TO THE VALUATION DIVISION GENERAL OFFICE ON EXTENSIONS 20 AND 21 AND TO THE MODIFICATION DIVISION GENERAL OFFICE ON EXTENSION 41.
MR. H.C. TAM, CHIEF ESTATE SURVEYOR OF THE VALUATION DIVISION, IS NOW ON 5-260061 EXTENSION 1, WHILE MR. R.D. POPE, CHIEF ESTATE SURVEYOR OF THE MODIFICATION DIVISION, IS ON 5-260061 EXTENSION 35.
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/8
FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 1977
8
REPORTS ON SHIPBUILDING AND ELECTRONICS
INDUSTRIES ON SALE
******
THE REPORTS ON THE RECENT MANPOWER SURVEYS OF THE SHIPBUILDING AND SHIP REPAIRS AND ELECTRONICS INDUSTRIES ARE NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE IN THE GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CENTRAL.
THE TWO REPORTS, PUBLISHED IN ENGLISH AND CHINESE, WERE PREPARED RESPECTIVELY BY THE SHIPBUILDING AND SHIP REPAIRS INDUSTRY AND THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY TRAINING BOARDS OF THE HONG KONG TRAINING COUNCIL WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
BOTH CONTAIN DETAILED INFORMATION ON THE EMPLOYMENT STRUCTURE OF THE RESPECTIVE INDUSTRY AND INCLUDE A FORECAST OF THE FUTURE TRAINING NEEDS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ON MEASURES NECESSARY TO COPE WITH SUCH NEEDS.
THEY COST $7.00 AND 36.00 A COPY RESPECTIVELY.
- - 0 - -
FIRST PHILHARMONIC CONCERT IN N.T.
*****
AN ESTIMATED 1,200 PEOPLE ARE EXPECTED TO TURN UP AT THE FIRST CONCERT EVER TO BE GIVEN IN THt NEW TERRITORIES BY THE HONG KONG PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA ON SUNDAY (JUNE 12).
THE TWO-HOUR CONCERT STARTING AT 7 P.M. WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE FUNG KAI SECONDARY SCHOOL IN SHEUNG SHU I.
ADMISSION IS FREE AND TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICE ON A FIRST COME FIRST SERVED BASIS.
THE CONCERT IS BEING JOINTLY PRESENTED BY THE HONG KONG PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY, THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, THE TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE TAI PO SIX DISTRICTS ARTS ADVANCEMENT ASSOCIATION.
IT WILL BE CONDUCTED BY MR. HANS GUNTER MOMMER, WHO HAS BEEN CHIEF CONDUCTOR OF SEVERAL OVERSEAS ORCHESTRAS AND WHO HAS ALSO APPEARED AS GUEST CONDUCTOR WITH MANY ORCHESTRAS AND CHOIRS IN EUROPE, AMERICA, AFRICA, THE MIDDLE EAST AND ASIA.
PROGRAMMES WILL INCLUDE A SOLO BY SOPRANO, MISS BARBARA CHEN, WHO HAS GIVEN MANY CONCERTS IN HONG KONG, MALAYSIA. SINGAPORE, THAILAND, VIETNAM, TAIWAN, UNITED STATES, THE PHILIPPINES AND MACAO.
0 - -
PR 33 4000039
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
SUPPLEMENT
Friday, June 10, 1977
EI-iBAHGOdD k-j.’S I.?ZL —
Note to Editors of newspapers* news agencies, broadcasting stations The following announcement regarding the Queen’s birthday honours list is being made simultaneously in London at 0001 hrs. G.i'.T. on June 11.
Publication is permitted in Hong I Long newspapers tomorrow (Saturday) morning, but no news agency or overseas radio transmission of the announcement may carry the information without the embargo qualification.
The news may be broadcast froa 6 a. in. onwards over the local radio and television stations tomorrow.
On NO account should any of the recipients of honours be contacted for interviews or for information relative to their careers or be approached in any way in connection with their awards before these have been publicly announced.
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House. Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
/K.B.E. .......
Friday, June 10, 1977
- 2 -
QUEER’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS
K.B.E. (Knight Conanander, Order of the British Empire)
Mr« John Vin cent PREr'DERGAST, C.M.G,, C.B.L., G,h., G.P.i.., C.hJ
iir. Prendergast has been one of the most successful policemen in the Commonwealth in the last JO years. It seems that whenever intractable problems have arisen in the colonies since World War II, it has often been tae case that the call would come out for Prendergast: Kenya, Cyprus, Aden.
In 1973, he was appointed the Deputy Commissioner and Director of Operations, I.C.A.C. The success of Hong Kong’s fight against corruption owes a great deal to his outstanding talents, leadership and devotion to_duty.
Mr. Prendergast retired in January 1977*
Knight Bachelor
Mr. Run Run SHAU, C.B.E.
lir. Shaw has devoted much to community service in Hong Kong. Me is President of the Red Cross; a leading figure in the Community Chest since its inception; and Chairman of the annual International Festival of the Arts. He has for many years been active in the promotion of cultural activities, higher education and medical services in Hong Kong.
C.B.E. (Commander, Order of the British Empire)
Mr. Thomas Gerad GARKER, J.P.
lir. Garner joined the Prisons Department in 19^7 and rose to the rank of Commissioner in 1972*
He is an efficient and respected Commissioner who has done much to modernize, improve and widen the scope of the Prisons in Hong Kong.
C.B.E. (Commander^ Order of the British Empire)
Mr. Thomas LEE Cliun-y on r J.P.
Hr. Loe joined the Social Welfare Department in 1952 as a Probc.tic:
Officer. He rose to the rank of Deputy Director in 1971 and was appointed
Director in 197z>*
/Mr. Lee .......
Friday, June 10, 1977
- 3 - • .. ..
i- .r. Lc>; has successfully led the department with skill and efficiency during a period of unprecedented, growth in the scale of social welfare facilities in Hong Korr>
C.B.H. (Co:.»r.iander, ^re.cr of tye British Empire)
Mr* * Brian DenAs WILS GN, J.P.
Mr. Wilson joined the Government in 19^8 as an Administrative Officer. He has served in many departments and in the Government Secretariat. He was Commissioner for Transport from 1971-73 and has been Director of Urban Services since 1973. Throughout his career he has been well-known for his efficiency, diplomacy and skill.
• •
O.B.E. (Officer, Order of tfre British Empire) Mr. Williar. Collins BldLL, J.P.
Hr. Bell joined the Public Works Department in 1953 as an er. ineer. He has held many senior management positions in the Department and /as appointed Doputy Director in 1975* He has acted as Director on several occasions.
Mr. 3ell has been an outstanding Deputy Director who has undertaken a most chall .-nginp post with tremendous enthusiasm and skill.
O.B.E. (Cf.ficari. Order jo^f the British Empire)
Mr. Leona.rd DU/1 IM ~ , J.P.
. r. Dunning joined the Trade Development Council in 19^6. c w.c: • • • • appointed Executive Director in 1973* । •
He lias given outstanding service to the promotion of i-ong ^on overseas trade.
/C.B.E. ......
Friday, June 10, 1977
C. B. E. (Officer, ircer of the .British Empire)
Mr. Haymond .'Ifred FPI, .J.D., J.Pjr
-•r. Fry joined the Hating and Valuation Department in 19'55* >
was appointed assistant Commissioner in 1962 and Commissioner in 1971*
As Courissioner he has applied his enthusiasm, professional shills and dedication in an exemplary fashion, particularly during a period of r<.pid growth of Hong Kong.
O.B.E. (Officer, Order of the British Empire) Mr. Gordon lienzies iACffiilNNIE, J.P.
Er. MacWhinnie has made an outstanding contribution to th:.-development of the accountancy profession. He was the first President of the Hong Kong Society of Accountants. He has served as a member of the Board of Inland Revenue since 1968, and in 1976, was a member of the.Board of Inquiry to investigate the affairs of the Hong Kong Telephone Company.
0. B. . (Of f icer, Order of the British Empire)
Mr. Reinaldc .CBLITA3, E.D.
i-r. Cblitas was appointed in 1960 Manager of the City Aril where he was responsible for the theatres, public library and museum. In those formative years, he exerted tremendous influence in developing popular entertainment, cultural presentations and the arts. He was promoted to Deputy Director of Urban Services in 1973* . .
C.B.E. (Officer, Order of the British Empire)
Mr. Anthony Denis CCICENDEN, J.P._
Mr. Ockonden was appointed Commissioner of Banking in 197^, after a successful career in the Bank of England.
He has been instrumental in developing and regulating the banking and finance industry in Hong Kong and has done much to develop long Eon;; as a leading financial centre in the region.
. /O.B.E. ......
Friday, June 10, 1977
- 5 -
O.B.E. (Officer, Crder of the British Empire) hr, Michael Giyliaa Buddock SANDBERG, J.P.
Mr. Sandberg is a highly respected member of Hong Kong’s coLOinity and his contribution to the work of many committees has been a consistently valuable one.
He is Chairman of the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation Advisory Board and the Industrial Estates Provisional Authority. He is Chairman of.the Executive Committee of the Community Chest.
O.B.E. (Officer, Order of the British Empire) Professor Lyle Boyce THRCATER, J.P.
Professor Thrower has contributed greatly to promoting an informed public opinion on matters affecting the environment, especially on pollution and conservation issues.
O.B.E. (Off i c c- r, 0rder oi the British Empire) hr. Seaward .'/Ci, J.P.
Er. Woo rendered distinguished service for the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals from 1952 to 195^ and was Chairman of the Board of Directors in 195^* Ke was a member of the Trade and Industry Advisory Board* For many years, he has served on the Board of Directors of the Hong Kong Anti-Tuberculosis Thoracic Diseases Association and has played an important and effective role in the successful fight against tuberculosis in Kong Kong.
0 - 3. E, (Officer, Order of the British Empire) Dr. YAP Jin-hwee, J.P.
Dr. Yap has served in the dental service for 27 years with distinction. He has played a major role in the development of dental service in Hong Kong.
•• . r . -
Friday, June 1 , .1977
..-6 ‘
I. S. 0. (Companion, Imperial Servi ce Order)
Hr. Edmund Paul GRACE, v. P. H« , C. P. L.
Hr. Grace joined the Force as a Sub-Inspector in 19^+9, after serving in ths Palestine Police. He has risen through the ranks and was appointed Assistant Commissioner in 19$9«
Mr. Grace has proved himself to be a most able police officer and has played an important part in raising the general level of professional competence of the Force to its present standards. Mr. Grace retires this year. •
I.S. C. (Companion, Imperial Service Order)
• ir. Robert Jilliam FRIl-iROSE, H.B.E., J.P.
After long service in the Executive and Administrative Grade in the Government, fir. Primrose was appointed as--the first Administrative Secretary of UK-TLCG (Office of the Unofficial Members of the Executive and Legislative. Councils) .in 1$70.
lir. Primrose has given outstanding and dedicated service to the efficient development of UKSLCO, in providing support facilities for Unofficial i bars and in dealing with complaints from the publir. He retires this year.
I.S.O. (Companion, Imperial Service Order)
i;r. Derek Cart .-r .READ^lAI!, J.P.
i*r. Headman joined the Hong Kong Government as a Revenue Inspector in 19^8 and transferred to the Executive Grade in 1951.
Ke was appointed Assistant Director of Immigration in and Deputy. Director in 19&7. He is expected to go on pre-retirement leave this.year after 29 years service.
hr. Re adfaan-*joined the Immigration Department when it was only three years old and less than a quarter of its present size. He has since played a key part in the development of the service.
/l<. B. E
Friday, June 1C, ■ 7’7
x\3.E. (Member, Crde:- ' the British ir-ipire)
Er. CHA?« Liny-fu nfi
r. Chan is a prominent and respected leader of the kaifong movement and has been very active for over 20 years. He has been active in pronoting community service projects and has uado significant contribution towards the Fight Violent Crime Campaign..
1 r. : r. :
M.B.E. (nemb^r, Order f the British Empire) Mr. CHAN Po-fcngJ._?..
I7r. Chan has been Village Representative in Sam Tung Uk since 1959* He was Vice-Chairman of the Tsuen Wan Rural Committee in 1966-68. and was Chairman in 1970-72*
Chan has yivon outstanding community service to Hong on; and particularly to the J-ow Territories. He is a member of the Criminal and Law Enforcement Injuries Compensation Board, the Advisory Committee on Environmental Pollution, the Tsuen Wan Youth Development Committee and the Fight Violent Crime Committee.
H.B.E. (Mcrnbcr^ Crdsr the British Empire)
Er. LEE r.in-tak ,
iir. Lee joined the Preventive Service in 1955 ^nd was promoted to Superintendent in 1975*
Mr. Loe is at present the most senior Chinese Officer in the service. lie has at various times ’commanded the Harbour, the Airport ■ am c_.o Excise Divisions and is currently the Commandant 6 f the’ Preventive 'Service-Training School. Ee is due to retire this year.
Friday, June 10, 1'777
- 8 -
M. B. 3. (i mbor, Order of the- British Empire)'
hrs. Edit' LIr
lira# Li lias been the Honorary Director of Hong Kong Red Cross for seven years. She has been a member of the Red Cross Branch Committee sine • 1965 and has spent long hodra.iof devoted service in assisting many unfortunut people who have become the victims of some calamity or tragedy in Hong Kong. In addition, she has been instrumental in organizing relief assistance for
• • • . • >. »» .... • • — -the victims of disasters abroad.
M.B.H. (lieriborx C/rder of the British Empire)
Mr. Francisco Xavier liCIiTHIRO
Er. Monteiro was first appointed to the Government in 1S5o as a Land Bailiff, ad was promoted to Senior Land Assistant in 19^8 and Clief Land Executive in 1;76. He has also served in the Auxiliary Police Force for 16 years.
iir. Monteiro is an outstanding officer in both his public and voluntary duties.
I-1.3.E. (Member, Order of tM< British Empire)
Mr. POON Kwcnj^lau ' " ' ~‘ ' M..
.□?. Poon joined the Treasury in 1941 and has given % years of devoted service to the department. He is due to retire this year.
i-i.B.E. (Member, Crcc-r of the British Empire)
hr. Lawrence- Eldred POTTINGER
Mr. Pottinger joined the Government in 1970 after retiring, from the Army as a Major in the Brigade of Gurkhas.
Mr. Pottinger has given exceptional service to the Protocol Section of Hong Kong Government•
Friday, June 10, 1977
- 9 -
M.B.E. xr, Croer of the- British Empire)
I.r, Arthur LXvart STARLJDNG ,
hr. Starling joined the Iledical and Health Depart, ent as ’ospr.'jal Secretary in 1953 and has risen to the rank of Chief Hospital Secretary in 1969.
During this period he has been Secretary of nearly all the major • • •
Government hospitals in Hong Kong, and has been responsible for the plaxiing, equipping and commissioning of all new hospitals and clinics (in particul. r the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in 1961 and the Princess iiargaret Hospital in 1975).
L. B. 3. (Merabcr, Order of the British Empire)
Mr. Albert Edward SHAVE, C.P.M.
Kr. Shave joined the Royal Hong Kong Police Force as a Sub-Inspector • > • in 1950* He was promoted to Assistant Commissioner in 1971 and to his present rank of Senior Assistant Commissioner in 197^-
He has served in Districts as well as Headquarters, in the Police Training School, the Police Training Contingent (now Police Tactical Unit) and in the Traffic Branch.
He retires this year.
h.B.E. (Member, Crder of the British Empire) hr. TAN Sze-sui
Ilr. Tam joined the Government in 19^9 and was appointed Assistant Registrar in the Registrar General’s Department in 1956. He was promoted in 1964 to his present rank of Senior Assistant Registrar.
'Ie will retire this year after 28 years of outstanding service.
Friday, Juno *10, 1977
10 -
(iiGr.iber,_ Order of, the British Empire)
hr. Harva_ J.\ --S XA<-_
Hr. Yapp, an Editorial Writer of the South China Horning Post, is one of th . best known and respected journalists in Hong Kong. He has contributed considerable efforts in reflecting the views of the community and in promoting understanding between the Government and the people in .long Kong.
B«E<M» (British Empire Medal)
My« CHAN King
nr. Chan joined the Public Works Department in 19^5 and for 22 years served there being engaged in accounting work. For the last six years he has been with the Fire Services engaged in similar duties.
Hr. Clian is an Executive Officer Class I and is hold in very high, esteem by his seniors and subordinates alike.
B.E.M. (British Empire Modal)
Mr. MAK Tai-sang
Hr- riak joined the Government in 19^+6. He retired in 197$ after 30 years service all of which have been with the District Office, Tai Po. His loyalty, knowledge of local customs and personalities, willingness to work irregular hours and cheerfulness has been a good influence on his subordinates and younger colleagues.
B. E.M. (British Empire Madal)
Mr. CHU Mok
Mr. Chu has shown devotion to his duties and loyalty to Government during his 30 years of service with the Railway. He has taken a leading part in many rescue operations during railway accidents disregarding personal risks in some of these operations.
.E.M.
Frida-/, June 10, 1/77
- 11 -
B. . (Brit is' ~ B^ir e I -a dal)
Mr* LAI Hing
lir. Lai joined the Government in 19^8. He was promote ' to cl..? • in 1951 and spent his entire service with the Police Force in the Few Territories. He is due to retire this year after 28 years of service.
Tnr
C.P.L. (Queenfp Police I edal.)
Hr. Peter Thouas l-iCCR
i-r. boor joined the Force as a Sub-Inspector in 19^9 following
service in the R.A.F. He was promoted to Gazetted rank in 195& arc-.
through the intervening ranks to Assistant Commissioner in 1975*
throughout his service Mr. Moor has shown a cairn, sdf-conxidei/o, professions! competence. -'e has set an excellent example of dedicated service to the public and has inspired his subordinates to strive t- t?.c..3 ve the sane hiQ standards.
Q. P. h. (Qupen1 s Police Medal )
Mr. Richard QUITHj
Hr. Quine joined the Force as a Sub-Inspector in 195^ following, service with the Corps of Royal Military Police. He was promoted to Gazetted
rank in 1959 and to Chief Superintendent in 1975- He is at present t..e
Director of Criminal Investigation.
Throughout his service, Mr. Quine has displayed a very nigh degree of- professional competence.
C.P.M. (Colonial Police Medal)
Mr. Derek William, EERE
Hr. Bere joined the Royal Hong Kong Police Force in 1952. He is now a Chief Inspector in charge of a Homicide Squad in the Criminal Investigation Department. He has given outstanding service in the C.I.D. and is recognised
publicly as one of the top detectives in Hong Kong.
Friday, June 10, 197.
- 12 -
C. P. K. (Col onir2. Police Medal)
i;r. Derek i ^arlborough CLAASSEN
*.r. Glaasseii, Superintendent of Police (Auxiliary), joined the Special Constabulary.' in 1$5^«
During his service with the Auxiliaries, he has served in Liiits . r. Hong Kong, Kowloon and Marine and at all times he has given outstanding. . service to the- Force. . •
C.I.il. (Colonial Police Medal.)
Mr. David John ED.7ARDS . . • ' • • ••• • • r • e
Chief Inspector Edwards joined the Royal Hong Kong Police Force
in 1959. He was promoted to Chief Inspector in 1971* He has held T
responsible posts in Village Patrol Unit, in Tai Po, ^ong Tai Sin and the Frontiers.
C.P.M. (Colonial Police Medal)
Mrs. LEUNG KWOK Ci-lin
lire. Leung joined the Royal Hong Kong Police Force as a Constable in 1952. She has proved to be a most competent and conscientious officer and effective leader. /
C.P.M. (Colonial Police Medal)
Mr. LOO Shiu-lctfong
Mr. Loo joined the Royal Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force in *'9^9 • He was promoted to Senior Inspector of Police (Auxiliary) in 1972. Despite heavy business demands, he has committed himself whole-heartedly to his responsibilities with the. Auxiliary Force.
Friday, June.- 10, 1 77
- 13 -
C.l-.i.. (Colonial Felice j;e dal) hr, MAK Shin. r wan
During his JO years in the Police Force> Mr. Mak has served with distinction in the Now Territories, Kowloon and Hong Kong. .‘o has been engaged in motor-cycle instructor duties and as an NCO in charge of transport at tho Police Driving School.
C. P. N. (Colonial Police nodal.)
Nr. Augusto j-^ria j. a th ins de SOUZA
Mr. Souza joined the Poyal Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Forcv in 1953* He has showed great aptitude in the Marin. Division and qualified both as a navigator and as an engineer. His service was distinguished by his dedication to duty and his willingness to accept responsibilities.
C.P.E. (Colonial Police r.cdal)
Mr. WONG ?Iiu-shc.n
Ilr. '.'/on; va?~ first posted to Special Branch in 1955 and ' ■ been in the travel control field since 1964. His service throughout has been
marked by uzremplax^ conduct and a sense of service to his fellov/ officers and to the community.
C. P. M. ( C ol orh. c 1 Poli ce I -e dal)
Mr. WONG Siz-yuen
1-r. Wong joined the Hoyal Hong Kong Police Force as a Probationary Inspector in 1$61. He has served in the Uniform Branch, Marine Police, Special Branch, Police Training School, and since 1970 has been attached to the Narcotics Bureau of the Criminal Investigation Department. lir. service has been distinguished by resourcefulness, industry and corrpl te loyalty.
/C.P.i . ......
Friday, Juno 10, 1-77
- l4 T
C. P. M. (Coloaial Iplice jp^dal)
Hr* KONG Kir:
Principal Fireman KONG Kim has served with the Fire Services for 22 years.and during that time his performance of duties has been of ar. extremely high standard. For some years, he has been in charge of tile Fire Services underwater diving team. Under KONG Kim’s leadership the team has performed successfully and without serious mishap.
1 ■ C.P.li. (Colonial Police l-iedal) Hr. LI Cho
Principal Fireman LI Cho has served with the Fire Services for •
•* ♦
31 years and durin; all this time his performance has been of a high standard and an example to his colleagues.
C.P.M. (Colonial Police hedal)
Mr. TAI* Wah
Senior Fireman TAi- Hah joined the Fire Brigade as a Fireman Carpenter. Throughout his 32 years in the Fire Services he has played.a very important role in the maintenance and repair of life saving ladders and equipment. This high standard of skilful workmanship has contributed to the saving of countless lives.
< « . . . - .....• V
. - • • • **—■ •- ••
/Badges of Honour .......
Friday, June 10, 1977
- 15 -
badges of honour
Mr. CIICU Chin-yau
i'r. Cho .- is a well-known Community leader and has been Chairman of the Central District South-Jest Area Committee since 1974.
The Reverend. Stp^hen EDLCNDS
A voluntary worker in prison-visiting since 1951 and official Prisons Chaplain since 1974, the Rev. Edmonds has given valuable service in the treatment and rehabilitation of young offenders.
i.r. KU Ka
Lr. ku is an active pioneer of the Co-operative * movement anon. , pig farmers in the Nov; Territories and a member of the Agriculture and Fisheries Department’s Farm Advisory Committee.
hr. NG King-/an
lir. Eg is an Executive Director of the South China Athletic
Association, for which he has worked since 1953» and an enthusiastic
promoter of sport in 'long Kong.
Mr. PANG Yiu-son
iir. Pang is a well-knov/n community leader in Yau i<i Tei and
Permanent President of the Hong Kong Cargo-vessel Traders Association, i.-iicn
he helped to found.
Mr. PANG Lap-tai
i-r. Tan. is President of the Tsing Yi Sports Association -.nd a past Chairman of the Tsing Yi Rural Committee, where he is well known for his community work.
hr. Sia.on YEUi'C Chun-pui
.:r. Young is Honorary President of the Tsuen Wan District Scout Association and is prominent in the field of youth and sports activities in the Nevz Territories.
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PRH 7
iGISl |«|
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 1977.
CONTENTS PAGE n02
GOVT PLANS TO PROTECT BURIAL RIGHTS OF N.T. VILLAGERS .... 1
X AND I TEAM LEAVES FOR EUROPE ON SELLING MISSION . 2
VANDALS SET FIRE TO MAIL BOX ..................... 3
LADY MACLEHOSE TO VISIT RECREATION CENTRE ......... 3
SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS FETCH $202,500 ................ *
TOOL AND DIE SHORT COURSE PROVES POPULAR .......... 5
TRANSPORT OFFICER ATTENDS TRAINING IN U.K.......... 6
REGISTRATION TEAM IN YAU TONG ESTATE .............. 6
TEMPORARY ONE LANE TRAFFIC IN PEAK ROAD ........... 7
YOUTH CALL CELEBRATES DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL ........ 7
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 1977
1
GOVERNMENT PLANS TO PROTECT BURIAL RIGHTS OF N.T. VILLAGERS *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS PREPARING LEGISLATION TO RESTRICT HILLSIDE BURIALS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES TO INDIGENOUS VILLAGERS.
THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. MORRIS MORGAN, SAID TODAY THE LEGISLATION, WHEN ENACTED, WOULD PROVIDE LEGAL PROTECTION FOR BURIALS OF INDIGENOUS NEW TERRITORIES VILLAGERS AND AIM TO STAMP OUT ILLEGAL BURIALS.
IN ADDITION, THE CONTROL MEASURES WOULD HAVE THE EFFECT OF REDUCING EROSION, FIRE AND HEALTH HAZARDS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
MR. MORGAN DISCUSSED THE PROPOSALS THIS WEEK AT A MEETING WITH COUNCIL MEMBERS OF THE HEUNG YEE KUK, LED BY ITS CHAIRMAN, MR. CHAN YAT-SAN.
ANOTHER MEETING WITH THE KUK WILL BE HELD IN ABOUT THREE WEEKS FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION OF THE PROPOSALS.
+EVERY YEAR THERE ARE A SUBSTANTIAL NUMBER OF ILLEGAL BURIALS ON HILLSIDES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES,* MR. MORGAN SAID.
+IN ORDER TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM, WE MUST BRING THE TRADITIONAL RIGHTS OF THE VILLAGERS WITHIN THE LAW AND THEN BAN HILLSIDE BURIALS FOR ALL OTHER PERSONS.*
TO DC THIS, HE SAID, IT WAS PROPOSED TO AMEND THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND URBAN SERVICES ORDINANCE.
THE AMENDMENTS WOULD PROVIDE THAT A DISTRICT OFFICER ISSUED A CERTIFICATE AUTHORISING A HILLSIDE BURIAL FOR A DECEASED INDIGENOUS VILLAGER.
AS AN ADDITIONAL SAFEGUARD THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION WOULD ALSO CONTAIN MEASURES WHICH WOULD REQUIRE ALL UNDERTAKERS AND FUNERAL PARLOURS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES TO BE REGISTERED AND TO KEEP COMPREHENSIVE RECORDS, MR.'MORGAN ADDED.
----0------
SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 1977
2
D C AND I TEAM LEAVES FOR EUROPE TO WOO INDUSTRIALISTS TO HONG KONG *****
THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, MR. ROY PORTER, LEADS A TEAM FOR EUROPE ON MONDAY (JUNE 13) FOR TALKS WITH OVERSEAS INDUSTRIALISTS ABOUT THE ADVANTAGES OF SETTING UP FACTORIES IN HONG KONG.
THE MISSION WILL TAKE THE TEAM TO STUTTGART, DUSSELDORF, AND FRANKFURT IN GERMANY, STRASBOURG IN FRANCE, AND TO SEVERAL TOWNS IN U.K.
IT IS THE SECOND SUCH MISSION TO BE CARRIED OUT THIS YEAR BY THE COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT AND WILL LAST THREE WEEKS.
MR. PORTER’S LAST TRIP WAS TO THE UNITED STATES WHICH HE DESCRIBED AS HAVING BEEN ONE OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL SO FAR.
IN THE EUROPE MISSION THE TEAM WILL HAVE DISCUSSIONS WITH THE CHIEF EXECUTIVES OF MORE THAN 40 FIRMS - 30 IN GERMANY, 10 IN FRANCE AND FOUR IN BRITAIN.
APPOINTMENTS WITH THESE FIRMS WERE FINALISED BY AN ADVANCE PARTY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY OFFICIALS WHICH LEFT A FORTNIGHT AGO.
MR. PORTER SAID THAT HONG KONG IS NOT WELL-KNOWN ENOUGH IN GERMANY IN REGARD TO ITS MANUFACTURING CAPABILITY. HE HOPES TO RECTIFY THIS.
+FOR OUR PART WE WELCOME GERMAN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY TO HONG KONG FOR ITS HIGH TECHNOLOGY AND EFFICIENCY.
+GERMAN INDUSTRIAL EXPORTS, ALTHOUGH SIGNIFICANT, CAN, IN OUR VIEW, BE FURTHER EXPANDED IN THIS REGION.
+AND, ONE WAY OF DOING THIS IS TO SET UP FACTORIES HERE,+ MR. PORTER SAID.
+HONG KONG, BECAUSE OF ITS EXCELLENT COMMERCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND WORKFORCE, IS AN IDEAL MANUFACTURING BASE,+ HE ADDED.
SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 1977
5
VANDALS SET FIRE TO MAIL BOX
******
A NUMBER OF LETTERS IN A POSTING BOX AT THE JUNCTION OF LEIGHTON ROAD AND CAROLINE HILL ROAD WERE DESTROYED OR DAMAGED IN A FIRE A FEW DAYS AGO, THE POST OFFICE ANNOUNCED TODAY.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE POST OFFICE SAID THE FIRE OCCURRED BETWEEN 6.40 P.M. LAST THURSDAY (JUNE 9) AND 6 A.M. FRIDAY (JUNE 10), AND WAS BELIEVED TO HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY VANDALS DROPPING LIGHTED MATCHES INTO THE APERTURE OF THE POSTING BOX.
AS A RESULT OF THE FIRE, A NUMBER OF LETTERS WERE COMPLETELY DESTROYED OR DAMAGED TO SUCH AN EXTENT THAT THEY COULD NOT BE FORWARDED.
LETTERS WHICH WERE NOT BADLY DAMAGED ARE BEING FORWARDED TOGETHER WITH A SUITABLE EXPLANATION, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
-----o------
LADY MACLEHOSE TO VISIT RECREATION CENTRE
******
NOTE TO EDITORS:
LADY MACLEHOSE WILL VISIT THE SAI KUNG OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTRE ON MONDAY (JUNE 13) AT 10.30 A.M.
THE RECREATION CENTRE, MANAGED BY RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE, OFFERS A RECREATION AND SPORT ACTIVITIES.
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S WIDE VARIETY OF ORGANISED
IT CATERS FOR OVER 200 CAMPERS AT PRESENT AND IS EXPECTED TO BE EXPANDED TO ACCOMMODATE UP TO 400.
YOU ARE WELCOME TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVE TO COVER THE VISIT OF LADY MACLEHOSE TO THE CENTRE.
TRANSPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE. A NINE-SEATER VAN (AM 2066) WILL LEAVE THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES CAR PARK AT 9 A.M. ON MONDAY.
SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 1977
4
AUCTION OF SPECIAL NUMBERS REALISES $202,500
*****
AT AN AUCTION AT THE CITY HALL THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING, 16 SPECIAL CAR REGISTRATION NUMBERS FETCHED A TOTAL OF $202,500 WHICH WILL GO INTO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY.
THE AUCTION, HELD AT THE CITY HALL LECTURE ROOM, SAW THE REGISTRATION NUMBER HK 80 GO FOR THE HIGHEST PRICE OF $30,000.
ANOTHER NUMBER, EK 18, WAS SOLD FOR THE SECOND HIGHEST PRICE OF $25,000, WHILE THE LOWEST PRICE WAS $2,500 FOR BN 505.
THE OTHER SPECIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS WERE SOLD AT THE FOLLOWING PRICES!
3228 $15,000 AH 686 $7,500
BM 99 $10,000 AC 717 $8,000
BM 9000 $4,000 AV 32 $11,300
BL 100 $5,000 BB 23 $21,000
BJ 22 $16,000 BJ 323 $8,000
BB 2222 $16,000 BN 525 $3,500
AG 8 $20,000
THE NUMBER AUCTIONED WILL BE ASSIGNED ONLY TO VEHICLES REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE AUCTION.
THIS MORNING’S SALE, THE 33RD ORGANISED EY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973, BROUGHT THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF MONEY REALISED SO FAR TO ABOUT $5,800,000.
--------o
SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 1977
5
DOG INOCULATION TEAMS MOVE ON * * * *
THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT TODAY (SATURDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT ADDITIONAL DOG INOCULATION AND LICENSING SERVICES WILL BE OFFERED TO CENTRAL, MID-LEVELS AND SHEUNG WAN RESIDENTS ON MONDAY AND TUESDAY, (JUNE 13 AND 14).
THIS WILL BE THE FOURTH DISTRICT DOG INOCULATION DRIVE PLANNED FOR THE CURRENT RABIES AWARENESS CAMPAIGN.
TEMPORARY DOG INOCULATION AND LICENSING CENTRES WILL BE SET UP AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
* JUNCTION OF QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL AND QUEEN VICTORIA STREET (AT SIDE OF CENTRAL MARKET)'
* IN FRONT OF RUMSEY STREET MULTI-STOREY CAR PARK, CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL"
* JUNCTION OF HOLLYWOOD ROAD AND LADDER STREET (IN FRONT OF MAN MO TEMPLE).
THESE CENTRES WILL BE OPEN FROM 9 A.M. TO 5 P.M. DAILY. DOG OWNERS LIVING IN THESE AREAS ARE ADVISED TO GET THEIR PETS IMMUNISED AND LICENSED DURING THE TWO-DAY OPERATION.
+TOOL AND DIE COURSE* PROVES POPULAR *****
THE HONG KONG TECHNICAL TEACHERS’ COLLEGE, WAN CHAI, WILL AGAIN OFFER THE TOOL AND DIE SHORT COURSE ON THE +DEVELOPMENTS IN PRESS TOOL MANUFACTURING* LATER THIS MONTH.
THE COURSE, CONDUCTED BY MR. R.G. BARBER, A SPECIALIST ON TOOL AND DIE MAKING, HAD BEEN OVERSUBSCRIBED LAST MONTH.
THIS IS A TWO-EVENING SHORT COURSE SPONSORED BY THE COMMONWEALTH FUND FOR TECHNICAL CO-OPERATION, AND WILL BE HELD ON JUNE 27 AND 28 FROM 7 P.M. TO 9 P.M.
THE LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION IS IN ENGLISH, AND CHINESE TRANSLATIONS WILL BE GIVEN WHERE NECESSARY. THERE WILL BE FILM SLIDES AND PRACTICAL DEMONSTRATIONS.
THOSE WHO ARE EMPLOYED IN THE TOOL AND DIE MAKING INDUSTRY AND HAVE ADEQUATE SECONDARY EDUCATION ARE INVITED TO ENROL.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE OBTAINABLE FROM THE HONG KONG TECHNICAL TEACHERS’ COLLEGE, 373 QUEEN’S' ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI, FROM TODAY (SATURDAY) AND SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE COLLEGE NOT LATER THAN JUNE 18.
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/6......
SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 1977
6
TRANSPORT OFFICER TO ATTEND TRAINING COURSE IN BRITAIN
* * * *
TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT OFFICER, MRS. DOROTHY CHAN, LEAVES HONG KONG BY AIR TODAY (SATURDAY) TO ATTEND AN 11-WEEK TRAINING COURSE IN BRITAIN.
THE COURSE WILL CONSIST OF ATTACHMENTS TO A NUMBER OF IMPORTANT DEPARTMENTS AND INSTITUTES CONCERNED WITH THE CONTROL AND PLANNING OF TRANSPORT IN BRITAIN SUCH AS THE GREATER LONDON COUNCIL, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT, MERSEYSIDE PASSENGER TRANSPORT EXECUTIVE, AND TRANSPORT AND ROAD RESEARCH LABORATORY.
THE AIM OF THIS COURSE IS TO EQUIP PARTICIPANTS WITH WIDER KNOWLEDGE OF THE MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL OF TRANSPORT PROBLEMS, AND TO STRENGTHEN THEIR PROFESSIONAL TRAINING.
MRS. CHAN JOINED THE DEPARTMENT AFTER GRADUATING FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG IN 1972. SHE ATTENDED A SEMINAR-CUM-TRAINING COURSE FOR TRAFFIC ENGINEERS AND TRANSPORT PLANNING OFFICERS IN JAKARTA AND SINGAPORE ORGANISED BY THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMISSION FOR ASIA AND THE PACIFIC IN 1976.
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REGISTRATION TEAM TO OPERATE IN YAU TONG ESTATE * * * * *
THE COMMISSIONER OF REGISTRATION ANNOUNCED TODAY THAT A TEAM FROM THE REGISTRATION OF PERSONS OFFICE WILL CONDUCT REGISTRATIONS IN YAU TONG ESTATE FOR RESIDENTS AND PERSONS LIVING NEARBY FOR FIVE DAYS FROM MONDAY (JUNE 13).
THE VISIT IS TO ENABLE PARENTS OR GUARDIANS TO REGISTER THEIR CHILDREN OR WARDS BETWEEN 11 AND 17 YEARS OF AGES FOR JUVENILE IDENTITY CARDS, AND HOLDERS OF JUVENILE IDENTITY CARDS TO REGISTER FOR ADULT IDENTITY CARDS ON REACHING 18 YEARS OF AGE.
REGISTRATIONS WILL BE 4.30 P.M. DAILY.
CONDUCTED BETWEEN 9.30 A.M. AND
ALL PERSONS LIVING IN THIS AREA ARE REMINDED OF THEIR RESPONSIBILITY TO REGISTER THEMSELVES AND THEIR CHILDREN FOP IDENTITY CARDS AND TO REPORT CHANGES OF EMPLOYMENT OR RESIDENTIAL ADDRESSES, MARITAL STATUS, OR ANY OTHER PARTICULARS WHICH HAVE CHANGED SINCE REGISTERING FOR THEIR IDENTITY CARDS.
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SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 1977
7
TEMPORARY ONE LANE TRAFFIC IN PEAK ROAD * * *
MOTORISTS ARE ADVISED THAT TRAFFIC FLOW ALONG PEAK ROAD NEAR HO TUNG GARDENS WILL BE REDUCED TO ONE LANE BETWEEN 11 A.M. AND 4 P.M. EACH DAY AS FROM MONDAY (JUNE 13).
THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE IS TO FACILITATE ROCK SCALING WORKS IN THE AREA WHICH ARE EXPECTED TO TAKE ABOUT TWO MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY THAT SPECIAL STOP AND GO SIGNALS WOULD BE OPERATED ALONG ONE LANE OF THE ROAD TO MAINTAIN TWO-WAY TRAFFIC FLOW DURING THE CONSTRUCTION WORKS.
NORMAL TWO-WAY TRAFFIC FLOW WOULD RESUME AFTER 4 P.M.
EACH DAY, HE SAID.
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’YOUTH CALL’ CELEBRATES DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
*****
RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG’S POPULAR PROGRAMME ’YOUTH CALL’ WILL CELEBRATE THIS YEAR’S DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL EARLY WITH AN EXCITING DRAGON BOAT RACE AT THE YAU MA TEI TYPHOON SHELTER THIS SUNDAY (JUNE 12), BEGINNING AT 11 A.M.
COMPERE MISS KIMMY GOT, WHO HELPS HER YOUNG VIEWERS REALISE THEIR UNUSUAL WISHES IN THE PART OF THE PROGRAMME +KIMMY WILL FIX IT+, IS ORGANISER OF THE RACE.
THERE WILL BE THREE TEAMS OF DRAGON BOATS, FROM LA SALLE PRIMARY SCHOOL, THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF YOUTH AND SAI KUNG HANG HAU DISTRICT.
A MYSTERY GUEST WILL PRESENT PRIZES TO THE WINNERS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
A LAUNCH WILL BE AVAILABLE AT 10.30 A.M. ON SUNDAY AT THE YAU MA TEI TYPHOON SHELTER BARGE PIER (SOUTH), BETWEEN MAN CHEUNG AND MAN WAI BUILDINGS, TO HELP PRESS REPRESENTATIVES COVER THE RTHK’S DRAGON BOAT RACE.
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PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 1977.
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
SAFETY OF STUDENTS IN SUMMER JOBS ......................... 1
YOUTH LEADERSHIP CAMP DRAWS EXCELLENT RESPONSE ............ 2
COUNTRY PARKS POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION ................... 3
NEW STAMPS AND FIRST DAY COVERS FOR SALE SOON ............. 4
ENGLISH COURSES FOR ADULTS ................................ 5
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF SEYMOUR ROAD ........................ ' 6
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 1977
1
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY FOR SUMMER JOB STUDENTS ******
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT IS VERY MUCH CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF STUDENTS WHO GO TO WORK IN FACTORIES DURING THE SUMMER HOL I DAYS.
ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR. DAVID LIN, SAID TODAY: +STUDENTS, BEING UNTRAINED AND INEXPERIENCED, ARE NOT AWARE OF INDUSTRIAL HAZARDS AND SHOULD NOT BE ASSIGNED JOBS WHICH ARE POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS OR WHICH INVOLVED THE OPERATION OF DANGEROUS MACHINERY.+
HE URGED FACTORY PROPRIETORS TO ENSURE THAT THE STUDENTS IN THEIR EMPLOY ARE UNDER CLOSE AND PROPER SUPERVISION. •
MR. LIN POINTED OUT THAT AN INJURED STUDENT HAS THE RIGHT TO-CLAIM WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION UNDER THE WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION ORDINANCE IF HE IS INJURED AT WORK, JUST LIKE OTHER INJURED WORKMEN.
THE INJURED STUDENT MAY ALSO CLAIM DAMAGES UNDER THE COMMON LAW IF THE EMPLOYER IS PROVED TO BE NEGLIGENT, HE ADDED.
MR. LIN ALSO REMINDED STUDENTS TO TAKE EVERY PRECAUTION AGAINST WORK ACCIDENTS IN THEIR OWN INTEREST WHEN WORKING IN FACTORIES.
+BEWARE OF POWER-DRIVEN MACHINERY,* HE WARNED.
+IF HANDLED OR OPERATED WITHOUT CARE OR IMPROPERLY, THE MACHINERY COULD INJURE, MAIM OR EVEN KILL A PERSON.
+ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND CHEMICAL USED IN INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES SHOULD BE HANDLED WITH CARE IN ORDER TO AVOID ACCIDENTS,* HE SAID.
MR. LIN REMINDED FACTORY PROPRIETORS TO NOTIFY THE WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION UNIT OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, IN THE PRESCRIBED FORM, OF ANY ACCIDENT WITHIN SEVEN DAYS AFTER IT OCCURRED.
+ANY EMPLOYER WHO,’WITHOUT REASONABLE CAUSE, FAILS TO DO SO, SHALL BE GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE AND SHALL BE LIABLE ON SUMMARY CONVICTION TO A FINE OF Si,3O^ + HE SAID.
SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 1977
- 2
YOUTH LEADERSHIP CAMP DRAWS GOOD RESPONSE * * * * *
THE RESPONSE TO THE ANNUAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP CAMP ORGANISED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND THE BRITISH FORCES FOR YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN HAS BEEN TREMENDOUS THIS YEAR.
LAST YEAR’S CAMP ATTRACTED 914 APPLICANTS- THIS YEAR, APPLICATIONS HAVE NEARLY DOUBLED TO 1,710 FOR THE 240 PLACES AVAILABLE.
AN ADDITIONAL PANEL OF REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE ORGANISERS AND VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS HAD TO BE SET UP. IT TOOK THREE FULL DAYS TO INTERVIEW APPLICANTS WHO HAD PASSED AN INITIAL SCREENING.
THE TWO PANELS SELECTED 380 YOUNG PEOPLE WHO WERE CONSIDERED WOULD BEST BENEFIT FROM THE CAMP, THE PURPOSE OF WHICH IS TO DEVELOP THE CHARACTER, SELF-RELIANCE AND LEADERSHIP QUALITIES OF PARTICIPANTS AND TO EQUIP THEM FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE.
THESE YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN ARE UNDERGOING YET ANOTHER TEST THIS WEEKEND AT THE GUN CLUB HILL BARRACK BEFORE QUALIFYING FOR ADMISSION.
THEY WILL RECEIVE A GENERAL MEDICAL EXAMINATION AND BE ASKED TO DEMONSTRATE THEIR FITNESS IN RUNNING CONTINUOUSLY FOR 12 MINUTES FOR NOT LESS THAN 1-1/2 MILES, SWIM 200 METRES, TREAD WATER WITH HANDS ABOVE WATER, AND IN THREE ATTEMPTS DIVE IN 10 FEET OF WATER TO RECOVER THREE OBJECTS.
THE 240 PARTICIPANTS EVENTUALLY ACCEPTED WILL JOIN EITHER ON JULY 4 OR AUGUST 1 THE ERSKINE CAMP IN SAI KUNG.
THE CAMP, IN EITHER OF TWO GROUPS OF 120 YOUTHS EACH, WILL BE RESIDENTIAL AND LAST 21 DAYS.
AT THE END OF THE SECOND WEEK, A SEMINAR ON +HONG KONG IN THE 198O’S+ WILL BE HELD WHEN THE YOUTHS WILL PARTICIPATE IN DISCUSSIONS WITH GUEST SPEAKERS FROM THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, THE BUSINESS FIELD AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATIONS.
CAMP ACTIVITIES WILL INCLUDE EXPEDITIONS, CANCOEING, ROCK-CLIMBING AND SWIMMING.
THE BRITISH FORCES ARE MAINLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ADMINISTRATIVE AND INSTRUCTIONAL SIDES OF THE COURSES WHILE THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT HANDLES THE RECRUITMENT, LIAISON WITH PARTICIPANTS AND FOLLOW-UP ACTION SUCH AS RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT.
THE CAMP, THE SEVENTH TO BE HELD THIS YEAR, IS FINANCED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB FUND.
0
SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 1977
COUNTRY PARKS POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION
******
ENTRIES ARE INVITED FOR A COUNTRY PARKS POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION WHICH AIMS TO PROMOTE AWARENESS OF COUNTRY PARKS AND THE NEED FOR CONSERVATION AND PROPER USE OF THE COUNTRYSIDE.
THE COMPETITION, JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE COUNTRY PARKS AUTHORITY AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, IS DIVIDED INTO TWO SECTIONS: A JUNIOR SECTION FOR ALL STUDENTS UNDER THE AGE OF 15, AND AN OPEN SECTION FOR EVERYONE UNDER THE'AGE OF 25.
THERE WILL BE FIVE PRIZES IN EACH SECTION - A FIRST PRIZE OF $500, A SECOND PRIZE OF $200, AND THREE THIRD PRIZES OF $100 EACH.
POSTERS FOR ENTRY SHOULD EMPHASISE ONE OR MORE OF THE SIX POINTS IN THE COUNTRY CODE AND SHOULD INCORPORATE THE WORDING OF THE CODE IN ENGLISH OR CHINESE:
* DO NOT DESTROY BY FIRE OR VANDALISM,
* DO NOT SPOIL WITH LITTER AND DIRT,
* DO NOT POLLUTE WATER CATCHMENT AREAS, WATER COURSES AND RESERVOIRS,
* DC NOT DESTROY VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE,
* DO NOT DAMAGE CROPS- RESPECT FARMERS’ PROPERTY, AND
* RESPECT THE COUNTRYSIDE.
NOT MORE THAN THREE FLAT COLOURS SHOULD BE USED IN ARTwORK AND PHOTOGRAPHY SHOULD BE IN BLACK AND WHITE, FOR POSSIBLE REPRODUCTION BY PR INTING.
ENTRIES FOR THE OPEN SECTION SHOULD EE 29 INCHES BY 19 INCHES AND BE MOUNTED ON CARDS. THOSE FOR THE JUNIOR SECTION SHOULD BE 14-1/2 INCHES BY 9-1/2 INCHES.
SCHOOL ENTRIES SHOULD BE MADE THROUGH THE HEADMASTERS OF THE PARTICIPANTS. ALL OTHER ENTRIES SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE COUNTRY PARKS AUTHORITY, C/C AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT, 393, CANTON ROAD, KOWLOON.
MANY OF THE POSTERS TO BE ENTERED FOR COMPETITION WILL HAVE THE CHANCE LATER TO EE PUT ON DISPLAY. THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING ENTRIES IS AUGUST 15, 1977.
CONDITIONS FOR THE COMPETITION ARE OBTAINABLE FROM ALL CITY DISTRICT OFFICES, ALL NEW TERRITORIES DISTRICT OFFICES, AND DIRECT FROM THE COUNTRY PARKS AUTHORITY.
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SUNDAY, JUNE 12, '.977
4
NEW STAMPS AND FIRST DAY COVERS FOR SALE SOON ******
A SET OF NEW STAMPS WHICH WILL BE OF PARTICULAR INTEREST TO TOURISTS WILL BE PLACED ON SALE ON THE LAST DAY OF THIS MONTH (JUNE 33).
THE SET OF FOUR STAMPS, IN DENOMINATIONS OF 23 CENTS, 60 CENTS, SI.33 AND $2, EACH DEPICTS A PARTICULAR ASPECT OF THE HONG KONG SCENE -- A TRAMCAR, A FERRY, A PEAK TRAMCAR AND A JUNK UNDER SAIL RESPECTIVELY.
THE STAMPS WERE DESIGNED BY A LOCAL ARCHITECT, MR. TAC HO. THEY WILL BE DISPLAYED ON THE FIRST FLOOR PUBLIC COUNTER OF THE GENERAL POST OFFICE IN CONNAUGHT PLACE ON JUNE 23 FROM 9.30 A.M. TO 4.33 P.M.
A FURTHER SET OF SPECIAL STAMPS, DEPICTING HONG KONG ORCHIDS, WILL BE ISSUED THIS YEAR AT A LATER DATE.
FOR THE ’TOURISM’ STAMPS ISSUE, SPECIAL FIRST DAY COVERS HAVE BEEN PRODUCED AND WILL BE OBTAINABLE FROM ALL POST OFFICES AT 20 CENTS EACH FROM WEDNESDAY (JUNE 15).
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED TO OBTAIN THEIR REQUIREMENTS EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT.
ADVANCE ORDERS FOR SERVICING THE COVERS WILL BE ACCEPTED AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE, THE KOWLOON CENTRAL POST OFFICE IN NATHAN ROAD, AND THE TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICE IN SALISBURY ROAD.
ADDRESSED FIRST DAY COVERS MUST BE HANDED IN WITH AN ORDER FORM ALONG WITH A REMITTANCE OF $4.33 PER COVER. THIS CHARGE COMPRISES THE COST OF THE FOUR STAMPS AND A SERVICE FEE OF 23 CENTS.
EACH ORDER MUST BE FOR NOT LESS THAN TEN COVERS, .vHICH MUST BE FULLY ADDRESSED BY THE APPLICANT.
ORDER FORMS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE THREE POST OFFICES ON THE SAME DAY (JUNE 15). THE DEADLINE FOR ACCEPTING ADVANCE ORDERS IS 5 P.M. ON JUNE 25 (SATURDAY).
SERVICED COVERS ADDRESSED TO A LOCAL DESTINATION WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION ON JULY 1 FROM THE OFFICE WHERE THE ORDER WAS PLACED. COVERS ADDRESSED OVERSEAS W ILL BE SENT FORWARD BY ORDINARY POST, SURFACE MAIL, UNLESS THERE ARE SUFFICIENT STAMPS TO COVER OTHER CHARGES SUCH AS REGISTRATION.
ON THE DAY OF PUBLIC SALE OF THE NEW STAMPS, FIRST DAY COVERS WILL BE ACCEPTED OVER THE COUNTER, IMPRESSED «ITH THE NORMAL POST OFFICE DATE STAMP AND HANDED BACK TO THE PERSON PRESENTING THEM.
THIS SERVICE WILL ONLY BE FOR UNREGISTERED ARTICLES MARKED ’FIRST DAY COVERS’, ADDRESSED LOCALLY, AND NOT BEARING ANY OTHER CANCELLATION. NO TIME TYPE WILL APPEAR IN THE POSTMARK.
SPECIAL POSTING BOXES WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE THAT DAY AT THE THREE POST OFFICES FOR THOSE .vHO WISH TO HAVE THEIR ADDRESSED FIRST DAY COVERS CAREFULLY HAND-POSTMARKED BEFORE BEING DESPATCHED.
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5
ENGLISH COURSES FOR ADULTS * * * * *
ADULTS OF 18 YEARS OR OVER WHO WANT TO BETTER THEIR ENGLISH MAY APPLY FOR A PLACE IN ONE OF THE PART-TIME EVENING COURSES RUN BY THE ADULT EDUCATION SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
THESE COURSES WILL BEGIN IN SEPTEMBER.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE OBTAINABLE BETWEEN JUNE 15 AND JUNE 30 AT QUEEN’S COLLEGE, KING’S COLLEGE, HENNESSY ROAD GOVERNMENT PRIMARY SCHOOL, SHAU KEI WAN GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL AND DISTRICT OFFICE (ISLANDS) IN HONG KONG, QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL, LI CHENG UK, SAN PO KONG, KWUN TONG AND FARM ROAD GOVERNMENT PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN KOWLOON, HOI PA STREET AND TAI PO GOVERNMENT PRIMARY SCHOOLS, HEUNG YEE KUK YUEN LONG DISTRICT SECONDARY SCHOOL AND SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
AN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY: +THE ENGLISH COURSES ARE DIVIDED INTO THREE LEVELS - A SIX-YEAR ELEMENTARY COURSE EQUIVALENT TO PRIMARY 4 TO FORM 3, A TWO-YEAR INTERMEDIATE COURSE EQUIVALENT TO FORMS 4 AND 5 AND A ONE-YEAR SENIOR COURSE EQUIVALENT TO FORM 6.+
SCHOOL FEES FOR THE THREE RESPECTIVE LEVELS ARE AS FOLLOWSs-
URBAN:
A. ELEMENTARY CLASSES
(PRIMARY P. 4 TO P. 6)
(SECONDARY F.l TO F. 3)
B. INTERMEDIATE CLASSES
(SECONDARY F. 4 TO F.5)
C. SENIOR CLASSES
(SECONDARY F.6)
RURAL:
A. ELEMENTARY CLASSES
(PRIMARY P.4 TO P.6)
(SECONDARY F.l TO F.3)
B. INTERMEDIATE CLASSES
(SECONDARY F.4 TO F.5)
ANNUAL TUITION FEES
$75
$95
$115
$40
353
APPLICATION FORMS AND ADMISSION TO THESE COURSES ARE FRtt. COMPLETED FORMS MUST BE RETURNED TO THE ADUlT EDUCATION SECTION 0F_ THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AT KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, NATHAN nOAu, KOWLOON BY JULY 2.
SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 1977
6
THE ADULT EDUCATION SECTION ALSO RUNS OTHER EVENING COURSES --THE EVENING SCHOOL OF HIGHER CHINESE STUDIES, SECONDARY SCHOOL COURSES, MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSE FOR ADULTS, YOUNG PEOPLE’S COURSE, TEACHERS’ COURSES, ADULT EDUCATION COURSES (GENERAL BACKGROUND) AND ADULT EDUCATION COURSES (PRACTICAL BACKGROUND). APPLICATION FORMS FOR THESE COURSES WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM JULY 2 AND SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE SECTION BY JULY 16.
REQUESTS BY MAIL FOR APPLICATION FORMS SHOULD BE ACCOMPANIED BY SELF-ADDRESSED AND STAMPED ENVELOPES.
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TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF SEYMOUR ROAD
******
SEYMOUR ROAD BETWEEN CASTLE ROAD AND ROBINSON ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC BETWEEN MIDNIGHT AND 6 A.M. FROM JUNE 14 TO JUNE 17 TO ENABLE ROAD RESURFACING WORK TO BE CARRIED OUT.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE ERECTED TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
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PRH 7
n-RipM IgisI hM
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
MONDAY, JUNE 13, 1977
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
SIR MURRAY RECEIVES DONATIONS FOR SCOUTS PROJECT ............ 1
NEW TERRITORIES TO HAVE MORE HOSPITALS ...................... 2
DO NOT USE WATER FROM FIRE SERVICE TANKS .................... 3
LADY MACLEHOSE VISITS RECREATION CENTRE ..................... 4
COUNCILLOR ON COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY VISIT .............. 5
CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYMENT SURVEY BEGINS ....................... 5
CONTRACT SIGNING TOMORROW FOR TUEN MUN RECLAMATION .......... 6
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN WESTERN .............................. 6
FIRING PRACTICE ............................................. 7
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
MONDAY, JUNE 13, 1977
1
GOVERNOR RECEIVES CHEQUE FOR SCOUTS SILVER JUBILEE PROJECT *****
THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, THIS EVENING ACCEPTED A CHEQUE FOR $1.3 MILLION FOR THE SCOUTS SILVER JUBILEE PROJECT AND PRESENTED CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION TO NINE MAJOR DONORS AT A PRESENTATION CEREMONY AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE.
SIR MURRAY AS CHIEF SCOUT OF HONG KONG RECEIVED THE CHEQUE FROM MR. LEO LEE, WHICH WILL BE USED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW HONG KONG ISLAND REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS OF THE SCOUT ASSOCIATION IN MORRISON HILL, WAN CHAI. MR. LEE IS HIMSELF ONE OF THE MAJOR DONORS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE ISLAND REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS BUILDING COMMITTEE.
THE NINE DONORS WHO RECEIVED THE CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION WERE: SIR SHIU-KIN TANG, MR. LEO LEE, MR. YOUNG HAN-CHIEN, MR. YUNG YAU, MR. HO TIM, MR. CHAN KANG-FOUT, MR. WILLIAM MA CHING-WAI, MR. LAWRENCE C.H. CHU AND MR. HUGO H.H. HUNG.
ANOTHER DONOR, MR. LI DAK-SUM, WHO HAS CONTRIBUTED
GENEROUSLY TO THE PROJECT, WAS NOT ABLE TO RECEIVE HIS CERTIFICATE AS HE IS OUT OF HONG KONG.
IN A BRIEF SPEECH, SIR MURRAY SAID HE WAS DELIGHTED THAT THE SILVER JUBILEE PROJECT OF THE SCOUT ASSOCIATION HAD ATTRACTED SUCH A STRONG SUPPORT.
+SIR SHIU—KIN’S PUBLIC SPIRITED GENEROSITY IS PROVERBIAL. HIS INITIATIVE AND THE SUPPORT GIVEN BY THE OTHERS IN THE COMMUNITY INCLUDING THE JOCKEY CLUB, IS AN INSPIRATION TO US ALL,+ SIR MURRAY SAID.
+FOR MANY YEARS THE SCOUT ASSOCIATION HAS BADLY NEEDED A NEW BUILDING ON HONG KONG ISLAND. AS CHIEF SCOUT OF HONG KONG I WOULD LIKE TO RECORD THE PROFOUND THANKS OF .THE SCOUT MOVEMENT FOR THE GENEROSITY OF SIR SHIU-KIN AND OTHERS IN THE COMMUNITY AND THE JOCKEY CLUB WHICH HAS ENABLED THE SCHEME TO BECOME A REALITY.*
MR. G.R. ROSS, PRESIDENT OF THE SCOUT ASSOCIATION, IN AN OPENING REMARK EARLIER ALSO PAID TRIBUTE TO SIR SHIU-KIN, WHO CONTRIBUTED $750,000 FOR THE PROJECT, AND OTHER MAJOR DONORS, INCLUDING THE JOCKEY CLUB WHICH HAS PLEDGED $250,000 MORE TO THE PROJECT.
THE NEW REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS, TO BE CALLED TANG SHIU-KIN HOUSE, WILL BE FIVE STOREYS HIGH AND MAINLY USED BY 7,000 SCOUTS AND OTHER YOUNG PEOPLE LIVING ON HONG KONG ISLAND.
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/2 .....
MONDAY, JUNE 13, 1977
2
TWO NEW HOSPITALS FOR NEW TERRITORIES *****
TWO NEW HOSPITALS, TWO POLYCLINICS AND FOUR GENERAL CLINICS ARE TO BE BUILT IN THE NEW TERRITORIES IN THE NEXT SEVEN YEARS AS PART OF THE GOVERNMENT'S EXPANSION PLAN TO COPE WITH THE INCREASING NEEDS OF THE RAPIDLY GROWING NEW TOWNS IN THIS REGION.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, DR. S.H. LEE, IN HIS ADDRESS TO THE ROTARY CLUB OF NEW TERRITORIES THIS EVENING.
THE NEW PROJECTS WOULD INCLUDE A 1,400-BED GENERAL HOSPITAL IN SHA TIN, A 1,2QO-BED HOSPITAL IN TUEN MUN, BOTH SUPPORTED BY A POLYCLINIC, AND ONE GENERAL CLINIC EACH IN SHA TIN, TSUEN WAN, KWAI CHUNG AND TSI NG Yl.
IN ADDITION, SAID DR. LEE, PLANNING WAS IN HAND TO IMPROVE AND EXPAND THE FACILITIES AT FANLING HOSPITAL BY THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FIVE-STOREY BUILDING TO PROVIDE EXPANDED EMERGENCY AND MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH SERVICES AS WELL AS ADDITIONAL STAFF QUARTERS.
BETTER USE WOULD ALSO BE MADE OF THE FACILITIES AT POK 01 HOSPITAL IN YUEN LONG, WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN SUBVENTION ON A DEFICIENCY GRANT BASIS FOLLOWING THE INTRODUCTION ON APRIL 1 OF THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH REGIONALISATION SCHEME, HE SAID.
DR. LEE SAID THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE REGIONALISATION SCHEME WOULD GO A LONG WAY TOWARDS IMPROVING THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES IN HONG KONG THROUGH A MORE EVEN USE OF HOSPITAL BEDS.
HE EXPLAINED THAT UNDER THE REGIONALISATION SCHEME HONG KONG IS DIVIDED INTO FOUR, LATER ON FIVE, REGIONS, EACH SERVED BY A REGIONAL HOSPITAL, ONE OR MORE DISTRICT HOSPITALS, ONE OR MORE POLYCLINICS AND A NUMBER OF GENERAL CLINICS.
HE SAID THE SYSTEM OF HAVING REGIONAL AND DISTRICT HOSPITALS WOULD HELP TO ENSURE THAT PATIENTS ARE TREATED WITH FACILITIES CLINICALLY COMPATIBLE WITH HIS CONDITION.
NON-ACUTE PATIENTS, FOR EXAMPLE, WOULD NOT BE ADMITTED DIRECT TO A REGIONAL HOSPITAL, BUT WOULD RECEIVE TREATMENT AT A CLINIC OR POLYCLINIC, OR BE ADMITTED FIRST INTO A DISTRICT HOSPITAL WHEN THE CONDITION WARRANTS ADMISSION.
+THIS SYSTEM WILL HELP RELIEVE OVERCROWDING AT THE REGIONAL HOSPITAL, WHICH IS FOR TREATING ACUTE CASES, AND MAKE BETTER USE OF THE UNDER-UTILIZED FACILITIES IN SOME DISTRICT HOSPITALS,* SAID DR. LEE.
WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF REGIONALISATION, PATIENTS WHO DO NOT REQUIRE THE LEVEL OF TREATMENT AT THE OVERCROWDED REGIONAL HOSPITALS CAN BE TRANSFERRED TO THE DISTRICT HOSPITALS, HE ADDED.
/DR. LEE
MONDAY, JUNE 1J, 1977
- 3 -
DR. LEE SAID ANOTHER ADVANTAGE OF THE REGIONALISATION SCHEME IS THAT ALL PREVENTIVE AND CURATIVE SERVICES ARE COORDINATED TO PROVIDE A COMPREHENSIVE AND INTEGRATED SERVICE WITHIN EACH REGION.
FOR INSTANCE, ROUTINE INVESTIGATIONS OF PROBLEMS AND COMPLAINTS IN THE HOSPITALS AND CLINICS CAN BE DEALT WITH MORE QUICKLY AND EFFECTIVELY WITHOUT +UNDUE REFERENCE TO MEDICAL HEADQUARTERS.+
AND FOR THE INDIVIDUAL PATIENT, SAID DR. LEE, REGIONALISATION OFFERS A MORE CONVENIENT AND EFFICIENT SERVICE AS HE CAN OBTAIN ALL LEVELS OF TREATMENT IN THE AREA OF HIS RESIDENCE.
+WITH THE COMPLETION OF THE NEW PROJECTS WHICH ARE BEING PLANNED IN THE URBAN AREA AND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES THERE SHOULD BE SUBSTANTIAL EXPANSION OF THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES TO PROVIDE MEDICAL CARE OF A QUALITY AND QUANTITY WHICH THE'PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WOULD LIKE TO SEE,+ HE SAID.
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CAUTION AGAINST USE OF WATER FROM FIRE SERVICE TANKS
K # * *
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT TODAY URGED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC NOT TO DRAW WATER FROM THE TANKS WHICH SERVE THE FIRE SERVICE INSTALLATIONS INSIDE BUILDINGS.
♦ IT IS ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL THAT DURING THE PERIOD OF WATER RESTRICTION, THESE TANKS SHOULD BE KEPT FULL AT ALL TIMES AND THAT THE WATER INSIDE MUST NOT BE USED FOR OTHER PURPOSES,* HE SAID.
HE POINTED OUT FROM PAST EXPERIENCE, IT WAS NOT UNCOMMON FOR TENANTS OR OWNERS OF BUILDINGS TO TURN ON THE HYDRANTS OR HOSE WHEELS TO WASH FLOORS, PARTICULARLY IN LARGE COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS.
♦ THESE TANKS ARE DESIGNED TO PROVIDE INITIAL WATER SUPPLY DURING THE EARLY STAGES OF A FIRE,+ HE STRESSED.
♦ IF THE WATER HAS BEEN USED FOR SOME OTHER PURPOSES OR IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE USE (IN CASE OF A FIRE), THEN THE WHOLE SYSTEM WOULD BECOME USELESS.+
♦ IF ANY FIRE SERVICE INSTALLATION WITHIN A BUILDING IS FOUND TO BE UNABLE TO FUNCTION EFFICIENTLY, IT WILL BE TREATED AS A FIRE HAZARD AND APPROPRIATE LEGAL ACTION WILL BE TAKEN AGAINST THE RESPONSIBLE PERSON,+ THE SPOKESMAN WARNED.
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A...
MONDAY, JUNE 13, 1977
- 4
LADY MACLEHOSE VISITS RECREATION CENTRE ******
LADY MACLEHOSE THIS MORNING VISITED THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE'S OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTRE AT SAI KUNG.
SHE MADE A TOUR OF THE FACILITIES THERE, INCLUDING A NEW SWIMMING POOL, AND LEARNED OF AN INDOOR GAMES HALL PROJECT FROM THE CHIEF RECREATION AND SPORTS OFFICER, MISS BETTY MAIR WHO ACCOMPANIED HER.
THE NEW 25-METRE SWIMMING POOL, WITH SHOWERS AND CHANGING ROOMS, IS NOW ALMOST COMPLETED AND IS EXPECTED TO BE AVAILABLE TO CAMPERS NEXT MONTH.
CONSTRUCTION ON THE MULTl-PURPOSE INDOOR GAMES HALL FOR 50 PLAYERS WILL BEGIN IN SEPTEMBER AND FINISH BY THE MIDDLE OF NEXT YEAR.
THE SAI KUNG OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTRE IS THE FIRST LARGE-SCALE RECREATION AND SPORT CAMP DIRECTLY MANAGED BY THE GOVERNMENT. IT HAS ALREADY BEEN USED BY SOME 35,000 PEOPLE SINCE IT WAS TURNED OVER TO THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE BY THE ARMY LAST YEAR.
MANY DIFFERENT GROUPS OF PEOPLE HAVE ENJOYED ITS FACILITIES, INCLUDING YOUNG PEOPLE, FACTORY AND OFFICE WORKERS, HANDICAPPED CHILDREN, BESIDES FAMILY GROUPS, FOR RECREATION AS WELL AS FOR ORGANISING SPORTS TRAINING AND EDUCATIONAL AND WORK CAMPS.
AT THE CAMP TODAY WERE A GROUP OF UNIVERSITY MEDICAL STUDENTS AND PUPILS FROM ST. JOHN BOSCO SCHOOL.
LADY MACLEHOSE WATCHED THEM ROLLER-SKATING AND DANCING AND TALKED TO A NUMBER OF THEM.
SHE ALSO POSED FOR PICTURES WITH SOME OF THE YOUNGSTERS WHO WERE HAPPY TO FIND HER WITH THEM AT THE CAMP.
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1
MONDAY, JUNE 13, 1977
5
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR ON COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY VISIT
* * * * *
UNOFFICIAL MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, DR. HARRY S.Y. FANG, WILL LEAVE TONIGHT FOR LONDON AS HONG KONG’S REPRESENTATIVE AT THE COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY VISIT.
THE VISIT IS ORGANISED BY THE COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION AND WILL LAST FROM JUNE 1* TO JULY 1. ITS OBJECT IS TO BRING TOGETHER IN ONE GROUP SOME 25 MEMBERS FROM 23 BRANCHES AROUND THE COMMONWEALTH.
PARTICIPANTS WILL MEET MEMBERS OF BOTH HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT AND SEE SOMETHING OF MODERN BRITAIN-AND GAIN WIDER EXPERIENCE OF THE OUTLOOK OF OTHER COMMONWEALTH COUNTRIES, THROUGH DISCUSSIONS AND FORMAL CONTACT WITH THEIR COLLEAGUES AND MEMBERS OF THE HOST BRANCH.
APART FROM LONDON, THE PARTICIPANTS WILL ALSO TOUR CAMBRIDGE, MIDDLESBROUGH: -AND EDINBURGH. IN LONDON THEY WILL ATTEND DEBATES IN BOTH HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT OR IN COMMITTEE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
DR. FANG LEAVES AT 10 P.M. TONIGHT ON FLIGHT BA811.
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EMPLOYMENT SURVEY OF BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SITES IN PRIVATE SECTOR ******
THE SECOND QUARTERLY SURVEY OF EMPLOYMENT IN PRIVATE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SITES HAS STARTED.
IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTERLY SURVEY IN MARCH, A TOTAL OF 54,540 MANUAL WORKERS WERE ENGAGED AT VARIOUS WORK SITES -- 32,760 OF THEM WERE EMPLOYED AT BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SITES OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR.
LETTERS AND SURVEY FORMS FOR THE QUARTER ENDING JUNE HAVE BEEN SENT OUT TO CONTRACTORS, SEEKING INFORMATION ON.THE NUMBER OF WORKERS AT EACH SITE UNDER THEIR CHARGE AS AT WEDNESDAY (JUNE 15).
SURVEY OFFICERS OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, EACH CARRYING A GOVERNMENT IDENTITY CARD, WILL VISIT THE SITES OR CONTRACTORS’ OFFICES IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS TO COLLECT THE COMPLETED SURVEY FORMS.
THE COMMISSIONER OF CENSUS AND STATISTICS HAS APPEALED TO CONTRACTORS AND THEIR SITE STAFF FOR THEIR CO-OPERATION IN THE SURVEY. INFORMATION RELATING TO INDIVIDUAL BUILDING CONTRACTORS WOULD BE TREATED IN STRICT CONFIDENCE AND WOULD ONLY BE USED FOR COMPILING STATISTICAL TABLES.
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MONDAY, JUNE 13, 1977
6 -
CONTRACT SIGNING FOR TUEN MUN RECLAMATION ******
NOTE TO EDITORS:
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT (P.W.D.) IS TO START WORK LATER THIS MONTH ON RECLAMATION AND LAND FORMATION IN TUEN MUN NEW TOWN TO PROVIDE 77 HECTARES OF RESIDENTIAL AND INDUSTRIAL LAND.
A CONTRACT FOR THE WORK WILL BE FORMALLY SIGNED IN THE P.W.D. HEADQUARTERS AT 2.30 P.M. TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND THE SIGNING CEREMONY WHICH WILL BE HELD IN THE ARCHITECTURAL OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, 12TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD.
MR. NICKY CHAN, PROJECT MANAGER (TUEN MUN), WILL SIGN
THE CONTRACT ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT AND WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW AFTERWARDS.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN THE WESTERN DISTRICT
* * * *
A NUMBER OF TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED WITH EFFECT FROM 10 A.M. ON WEDNESDAY (JUNE 15) TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC CIRCULATION IN THE WESTERN DISTRICT.
THE ARRANGEMENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
M THE SECTION OF QUEEN STREET BETWEEN DES VOEUX ROAD WEST AND CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY FROM DES VOEUX ROAD WEST TO CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST.
K THE SECTION OF WING LOK STREET BETWEEN DES VOEUX ROAD WEST AND BONHAM STRAND WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY FROM DES VOEUX ROAD WEST TO BONHAM STRAND.
* BONHAM STRAND WEST WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY FROM BONHAM STRAND TO DES VOEUX ROAD WEST.
X THE SECTION OF BONHAM STRAND BETWEEN WING LOK STREET AND BONHAM STRAND WEST WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY FROM WING LOK STREET TO BONHAM STRAND WEST.
M VEHICLES TRAVELLING IN DES VOEUX ROAD WEST WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM TURNING RIGHT INTO QUEEN STREET AND WING LOK STREET.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE ERECTED TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
MONDAY, JUNE 13, 1977
?
FIRING PRACTICE * * * *
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE AT CASTLE PEAK RANGE FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE DAYS STARTING WEDNESDAY (JUNE 15).
THE PUBLIC ARE REMINDED THAT IT IS DANGEROUS TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN THE RED FLAGS ARE FLYING DURING THE TIME OF THE FIRING PRACTICE.
THE PRACTICE TIMES ARE i-
DATE HOURS
JUNE 15 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 A.M. - 4.30 P.M.
JUNE 16 (THURSDAY) 8.30 A.M. - 4.30 P.M.
JUNE 17 (FRIDAY) 8.30 A.M. - 5.00 P.M.
0 - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
NEED TO SAVE WATER DESPITE CUT IN CONSUMPTION ..... 1
LEGCO DEBATE TOMORROW ON ANNUAL LEAVE BILL ........ 3
TIME TO BE PREPARED FOR TROPICAL STORMS ........... 4
S77 MILLION TUEN MUN RECLAMATION CONTRACT SIGNED .. 5
DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IS STATUTORY HOLIDAY ......... 7
CERTIFICATE OF IDENTITY PHOTOGRAPHS WILL BE ENGRAVED .. 8
JAPANESE INDUSTRIALISTS SEE TUEN MUN DEVELOPMENTS . 9
EMPLOYMENT STUDY IN WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADES .. 10
EYE DOTTING OF NEW DRAGON BOATS .................. 11
54 DISABLED HELPED TO FIND WORK .................. 11
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
1
WATER RESTRICTIONS CUT CONSUMPTION BUT RESERVOIR STORAGE LEVELS STILL FALLING
* M M * *
THE P.W.D.’S DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES, MR. WILLIAM TUCKER, SAID TODAY THAT THE FIRST STAGE OF THE +SAVE WATER DRIVE+ APPEARED TO HAVE ACHIEVED ITS AIM OF A TEN PER CENT SAVING IN CONSUMPTION.
AVERAGE DAILY CONSUMPTION SINCE THE NIGHT-TIME WATER RESTRICTIONS WERE IMPOSED ON JUNE 1 HAD BEEN 240 MILLION GALLONS, AGAINST AN ANTICIPATED JUNE CONSUMPTION FIGURE OF 270 MILLION GALLONS A DAY.
BUT MR. TUCKER ISSUED A STRONG WARNING AGAINST UNDUE OPTIMISM AS A RESULT OF THESE INITIAL SAVINGS, AND URGED THE PUBLIC TO MAINTAIN THEIR EFFORTS TO CONSERVE WATER.
ADDRESSING A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF HONG KONG, HE SAID THAT AT THIS TIME IN A NORMAL YEAR, STORAGE IN THE RESERVOIRS WAS STEADILY INCREASING -- THIS TIME LAST YEAR THEY HELD 53,254 MILLION GALLONS.
BUT THIS YEAR’S LEVELS HAD BEEN FALLING EVER SINCE LAST SUMMER, AND WERE STILL FALLING. TODAY’S TOTAL STORAGE WAS ONLY 30,426 MILLION GALLONS.
AND HE POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS THE NORMAL PATTERN FOR DAILY CONSUMPTION TO BE LOWER IN THE FIRST HALF OF A MONTH THAN IN THE LATTER HALF.
MR. TUCKER SAID THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT WOULD BE REVIEWING THE WATER SITUATION DURING NEXT WEEK, AND THE FOLLOWING WEEK WOULD MAKE A RECOMMENDATION TO THE GOVERNMENT ON WHETHER OR NOT THERE WAS A NEED TO MAKE ANY CHANGES TO THE CURRENT EIGHT-HOUR RESTRICTIONS.
HE SAID THAT DECISIONS ON LEVELS OF WATER RESTRICTIONS DEPENDED VERY MUCH ON THE AMOUNT OF RAINFALL YIELD EXPECTED AT THE TIME' RESERVOIR STORAGE LEVELS- AND THE RATE OF WATER CONSUMPTION.
RESTRICTIONS WERE THEN MADE IN KEEPING WITH THE LEVEL OF SUPPLY WHICH COULD SAFELY BE MAINTAINED WITHOUT THE RISK OF HAVING TO IMPOSE HARSH RESTRICTIONS THROUGHOUT THE WINTER MONTHS.
+CONTRARY TO BELIEF IN SOME QUARTERS, WE DO TRY TO KEEP AHEAD OF THE GAME BY DOING OUR SUMS AND MAKING ALLOWANCE FOR THE ANTICIPATED WET SEASON YIELDS,+ HE SAID.
MR. TUCKER SAID THE DISTRIBUTION OF RAINFALL ADDED A FURTHER ELEMENT OF UNCERTAINTY IN THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT’S CALCULATIONS.
TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
2
+ IF IT IS DISTRIBUTED IN PROPORTION TO THE MONTHLY AVERAGES, THERE WOULD NORMALLY BE A GRADUAL INCREASE IN STORAGE THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER, SO THAT DECISIONS COULD BE MADE PROGRESSIVELY IN THE LIGHT OF GAINS IN THE RESERVOIRS.
+IF, HOWEVER, THE RAINFALL DISTRIBUTION WERE TO BE UNFAVOURABLE, AS AT PRESENT, WITH LITTLE RAIN IN THE INITIAL PERIOD OF THE WET SEASON, THE SITUATION WOULD DETERIORATE MORE RAPIDLY AND — DEPENDING ON THE AMOUNT OF YIELD FROM THE RAINFALL --EARLIER IMPOSITION OF RESTRICTIONS MIGHT BE NECESSARY,* HE SAID.
MR. TUCKER SAID IT MIGHT SEEM PARADOXICAL THAT RESTRICTIONS WERE NECESSARY WHEN RAINFALL RECORDED IN MAY AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY INDICATED THAT APPARENTLY ENOUGH HAD FALLEN TO STAVE OFF RESTRICTIONS. BUT IN FACT THE OBSERVATORY RECORDS IN MAY HAD NOT BEEN REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RAINFALL OVER THE WATER GATHERING GROUNDS, AS CLEARLY ILLUSTRATED BY EXISTING STORAGE LEVELS.
+AS A RESULT OF THE UNEQUAL DISTRIBUTION WE FOUND OURSELVES IN THE DISAPPOINTING SITUATION OF COLLECTING A YIELD OF ONLY 1,900 MILLION GALLONS DURING THE MONTH OF MAY — A SUBSTANTIAL AMOUNT BELOW THE FIGURE OF 3,000 TO 4,000 WHICH I HAD INDICATED PREVIOUSLY WOULD BE NECESSARY BEFORE THE END OF MAY IF RESTRICTIONS WERE TO BE AVOIDED,* HE SAID.
+THIS POOR YIELD WAS DUE, IN PART, TO THE EXTREMELY DRY GROUND CONDITIONS -- THE EARLY RAINS DOING NO MORE THAN PROVIDING PLANT MOISTURE AND RESTORING THE DEFICIT IN GROUND WATER LEVELS.*
MR. TUCKER SAID THE QUANTITY OF WATER IN STORAGE AT THE BEGINNING OF THE WET SEASON NEED NOT BE AS GREAT AS THAT AT THE BEGINNING OF THE DRY SEASON, IF STORAGE IN SUCCESSIVE MONTHS THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER PROGRESSIVELY INCREASED TO COPE WITH BOTH THE SUMMER DEMAND AND TO BUILD UP ADEQUATE RESERVES TO SEE US THROUGH THE WINTER. BUT THIS HAD NOT BEEN THE CASE THIS SUMMER.
+WE ARE THEREFORE CAUGHT BETWEEN TWO STOOLS. ON THE ONE HAND, WE HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF THE RAIN THAT HAS ALREADY FALLEN AND ITS CONTRIBUTION TO STORAGE, AND ON THE OTHER WE HAVE SEASONAL FORECAST OF RAINFALL, THE DISTRIBUTION OF WHICH CANNOT BE ASSESSED WITH ANY DEGREE OF ACCURACY,* HE SAID.
IN ASSESSING THE FUTURE DEMAND, THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT SIMULATED A SERIES OF SITUATIONS OF VARYING RAINFALL AND ITS ASSOCIATED YIELD, STARTING FROM THE BASE POINT OF THE KNOWN STORAGE AND OTHER FIXED INPUTS SUCH AS CONTRIBUTION FROM THE DESALTER AND WATER FROM CHINA.
THE RAINFALL FIGURES USED WERE GENERATED FROM THE 90 YEARS OF RECORDED RAINFALL AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY.
/♦WITH THESE .....
TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
- 3 -
+ WITH THESE GENERATED RAINFALL FIGURES, AND BY ADOPTIi.G VARIOUS LEVELS OF DEMAND, WE ESTIMATE THE DIFFERENT DEGREES OF RISK OF RESTRICTION AND THE PROBABILITY OF NOT BEING ABLE TO MEET MINIMUM SUPPLY LEVELS.
+HENCE WE HAVE A TOOL WHICH IS BASED SUBSTANTIALLY ON HISTORICAL INFORMATION AND ENABLES US TO MAKE A JUDGEMENT RELATED TO THE RISKS INVOLVED,* HE SAID.
+IN ALL THESE DELIBERATIONS WE HAVE TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT NOT ONLY THE RESERVES W'E MUST HAVE TO SEE US THROUGH THE WINTER SEASON, BUT ALSO THE AMOUNT OF WATER REQUIRED IN STORAGE AT THE BEGINNING OF THE NEXT WET SEASON, TO ENABLE US TO MAINTAIN A MINIMUM SUPPLY IN THE EVENT OF THE FOLLOWING SUMMER BEING A DRY ONE.
+WHAT WE ARE DOING BY THE IMPOSITION OF RESTRICTIONS, THEREFORE, IS TAKING REASONABLE PRECAUTIONS TO SAFEGUARD OUR FUTURE POSITION, IN THE LIGHT OF CURRENT FACTS AND HISTORICAL PROBABILITIES,* SAID MR. TUCKER.
+THE AVAILABILITY OF A HIGH QUALITY OF ivATER SUPPLY IS FREQUENTLY TAKEN FOR GRANTED,* HE ADDED, +BUT IT DOES REQUIRE THE CONTINUOUS EFFORTS OF A MULTI-DISCIPLINED ORGANISATION --AND EVEN MORE SO DURING PERIODS OF RESTRICTED SUPPLY SUCH AS WE ARE EXPERIENCING.+
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ANNUAL LEAVE BILL COMES UP FOR DEBATE IN LEGCO
******
DEBATE ON THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) BILL 1977, WHICH PROPOSES SEVEN DAYS CONSECUTIVE ANNUAL LEAVE WITH PAY FOR WORKERS, WILL RESUME TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
SEVEN UNOFFICIALS ARE SCHEDULED TO SPEAK ON THE BILL.
DURING QUESTION TIME, THE UNOFFICIALS WILL ASK A TOTAL OF
15 QUESTIONS. THESE INCLUDE QUESTIONS ON THE PROGRESS OF REMEDIAL WORKS ON DANGEROUS SLOPES, THE ENROLMENT AND NUMBER OF CLOSE-DOWN OF KINDERGARTEN AND NURSERY CLASSES, PROVISION OF WELFARE SERVICES IN TEMPORARY HOUSING AREAS, AND THE PROBABILITY OF A GREEN PAPER ON POLLUTION CONTROL AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT.
THERE WILL ALSO BE QUESTIONS ON THE EXPECTED TIME OF
INVITATION FOR PARTICIPATION IN THE HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME, GOVERNMENT CONTROL OVER PRIVATELY-OPERATED MEDICAL LABORATORIES, ADDITIONAL HOLIDAY CAMPS AND GAZETTED BEACHES IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, AND THE AMOUNT OF GOVERNMENT QUARTERS AND OFFICES IN LEASED AND GOVERNMENT-OWNED PREMISES.
TEN BILLS WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS, INCLUDING THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO., 4) BILL WHICH AIMS TO GIVE BETTER WAGE PROTECTION TO CONSTRUCTION WORKERS.
- 0 -
TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977 4 -
PRECAUTIONS AGAINST TROPICAL CYCLONES AND HEAVY RAINSTORMS
* * *
THE DIRECTOR OF ROYAL OBSERVATORY, MR. GORDON BELL, SAID TODAY THAT IT IS TIME NOW TO TAKE SOME PRELIMINARY PRECAUTIONS TO ENSURE THAT WE ARE READY TO MINIMIZE THE DANGERS AND FINANCIAL LOSSES CAUSED BY HIGH WINDS, LANDSLIPS AND FLOODING DUE TO TROPICAL CYCLONES AND RAINSTORMS.
+COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS IS THE KEYNOTE FOR MINIMIZING THE DAMAGE TO PROPERTY, INJURIES AND LOSS OF LIFE WHICH CAN RESULT FROM THESE STORMS,+ HE ADDED.
THOSE WHO HAVE SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITIES DURING STORMS SHOULD ENSURE THAT THEIR INSTRUCTIONS INCLUDING RELEVANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS, ARE UP-TO-DATE.
GUTTERS AND DRAINS SHOULD BE CLEARED AND CHECKED FOR DAMAGE. BOLTS, LOCKS AND SHUTTERS OF ALL WINDOWS AND DOORS SHOULD BE CHECKED AND, IF NECESSARY, REPAIRED. OWNERS OF SMALL CRAFT SHOULD ENSURE THAT THEIR MOORINGS ARE IN GOOD CONDITION.
CIVIL ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS AND CONTRACTORS ARE REMINDED THAT THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT SITE WORKS ARE PROTECTED AGAINST DAMAGE FROM HEAVY RAIN.
ON THE HOISTING OF A NUMBER 8 TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING SIGNAL OR DURING PERIODS OF PROLONGED HEAVY RAIN, MR. BELL SAID, TEMPORARY REFUGE CENTRES WOULD BE OPENED FOR THOSE WHO WISHED TO LEAVE THEIR HOMES TEMPORARILY FOR SAFETY REASONS.
♦ANYONE IN ANY DOUBT AS TO WHERE TO GO SHOULD CONTACT THE NEAREST CITY DISTRICT OFFICE OR POLICE STATION,* HE ADDED.
CARDS EXPLAINING THE TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING SERVICE AND THE THUNDERSTORM AND HEAVY RAIN WARNING SERVICE ARE AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY AND THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
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TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
5
ANOTHER CONTRACT FOR TUEN K X *
MUN RECLAMATION SIGNED * K
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT IS TO BEGIN WORK ON FURTHER LARGE SCALE RECLAMATION AND LAND FORMATION IN TUEN MUN NEW TOWN TO PROVIDE 77 HECTARES OF RESIDENTIAL AND INDUSTRIAL LAND FOR SOME 110,000 PEOPLE - NEARLY ONE-QUARTER OF THE NEW TOWN’S EVENTUAL POPULATION.
THE PROJECT, ESTIMATED TO COST $77 MILLION, IS THE FIRST OF A SERIES OF MAJOR WORKS TO BE UNDERTAKEN UNDER THE SECOND HALF OF THE MASSIVE $3,500 MILLION DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME PLANNED TO TRANSFORM TUEN MUN INTO A MODERN METROPOLIS FOR HALF A MILLION PEOPLE.
THE CONTRACT FOR THE RECLAMATION AND LAND FORMATION WORKS, THE BIGGEST ENGINEERING CONTRACT SO FAR IN THE NEW TOWN, HAS BEEN AWARDED TO GAMMON (HONG KONG) LTD. AND WAS OFFICIALLY SIGNED IN THE P.W.D. HEADQUARTERS TODAY.
MR. NICKY CHAN, THE P.W.D.’S PROJECT MANAGER OF TUEN MUN NEW TOWN, SAID TODAY WORK ON THE HUGE PROJECT WILL START LATER THIS MONTH AND TAKE APPROXIMATELY 27 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
+IT WILL INVOLVE RECLAIMING 42.6 HECTARES OF LAND FROM THE SEA EAST OF PAK KOK AND IN THE SOUTH-WESTERN PART OF CASTLE PEAK, AS WELL AS FORMATION OF 34.7 HECTARES IN VARIOUS HILL AREAS IN THE NEW TOWN, TOGETHER WITH ROADS AND DRAINAGE,* HE SAID.
OF THE LAND TO BE RECLAIMED P.W.D. PLANNERS HAVE SET ASIDE NEARLY 20 HECTARES FOR PUBLIC HOUSING PROJECTS CATERING FOR 50,000 PEOPLE AND ANOTHER 20 HECTARES OR SO FOR INDUSTRY. THE REST OF THE RECLAIMED LAND WILL BE RESERVED FOR OPEN SPACES, RECREATIONAL AND OTHER USES.
GIVING AN IDEA OF THE SCALE OF THE PROJECT, MR. CHAN SAID SOME FIVE MILLION CUBIC METRES OF FILL MATERIAL WOULD BE REQUIRED FOR THE RECLAMATION.
NEARLY ONE MILLION CUBIC METRES OF THIS VOLUME, HE SAID, WOULD BE MARINE SAND WHICH WOULD BE DREDGED FROM TUNG CHUNG BAY NORTH OF LANTAU, AND ANOTHER ONE MILLION CUBIC METRES OF LAND FILL WOULD COME FROM BORROW AREAS AT SO KWUN WAT.
OTHER FILL MATERIAL WOULD BE EXCAVATED FROM VARIOUS DEVELOPMENT AREAS IN THE NEW TOWN WHERE TERRACED SITES WOULD BE FORMED FOR HOUSING AND INDUSTRY.
MR. CHAN SAID ONE OF THE TERRACED SITES WOULD PROVIDE A FURTHER 22.6 HECTARES OF LAND FOR A PUBLIC HOUSING PROJECT FOR 50,000 PEOPLE AND ANOTHER WOULD PROVIDE 3.8 HECTARES FOR PRIVATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT, WHILE SOME 8.3 HECTARES OF INDUSTRIAL SITES WOULD BE FORMED IN TWO OTHER AREAS.
/♦IN ORDER .....
TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
6 -
+ IN ORDER TO ENABLE THE GOVERNMENT HOUSING PROGRAMME TO PROCEED AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE, THE RECLAMATION AND LAND FORMATION WORKS HAVE BEEN PROGRAMMED IN SUCH A WAY THAT NEW LAND FOR PUBLIC HOUSING WILL BE FORMED FIRST WITH THE REST OF THE LAND BEING FORMED FOLLOWING CLOSELY THEREAFTER,* HE SAID.
TWO EXTENSIVE SEAWALLS WILL ALSO BE BUILT TO PROTECT THE RECLAIMED LAND ALONG THE SOUTH AND EAST SIDES OF THE RECLAMATION.
ALONG THE SEAWALLS WILL BE ACCOMMODATED SLIPWAY AREAS FOR BOAT-YARDS, TIMBER YARDS AND CARGO HANDLING FACILITIES.
REVIEWING THE CURRENT PROGRESS OF THE NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT, MR. CHAN SAID ALREADY 93 HECTARES OF LAND HAD BEEN FORMED AND SERVICED FOR VARIOUS DEVELOPMENTS, WITH A FURTHER 72 HECTARES OF LAND BEING RECLAIMED IN THE CENTRAL PART OF CASTLE PEAK BAY.
+ON THE LAND NOW BEING FORMED BY RECLAMATION,* HE SAID, +WILL BE BUILT TWO LARGE PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES TO PROVIDE HOMES FOR SOME 86,000 MORE PEOPLE AND WORK ON THE FIRST PHASE TO HOUSE 27,000 PEOPLE IS SCHEDULED TO START IN OCTOBER THIS YEAR.
♦ANOTHER IMPORTANT FEATURE ON THE RECLAMATION WILL BE A LARGE TOWN CENTRE, THE FOCUS OF THE NEW TOWN’S BUSINESS, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES.
+THIS WILL CONSIST OF COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS WITH SHOPS, BANKS, RESTAURANTS AND OFFICES FRONTING A CENTRAL PEDESTRIAN PODIUM, AND A SERIES OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS HOUSING AN AUDITORIUM, ART GALLERY, LIBRARY, STUDY CENTRE, EXHIBITION AND MEETING HALLS AND A MAGISTRACY.*
PROMINENT AMONG THE MANY OTHER P.W.D. PROJECTS CURRENTLY UNDERWAY, HE SAID, WERE THE $300 MILLION TUEN MUN ROAD WHICH WOULD CUT TRAVELLING TIME BETWEEN TUEN MUN AND TSUEN WAN TO 15 MINUTES WHEN IT OPENS EARLY NEXT YEAR, AND THE TAI HING ESTATE - ONE OF THE +NEW GENERATION* PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES BEING BUILT BY THE P.W.D.’S ARCHITECTURAL OFFICE.
HE SAID THE FIRST PHASE OF TAI HING ESTATE SHOULD BE COMPLETED VERY SOON AND THE FIRST OF ITS 24,000 TENANTS WERE EXPECTED TO MOVE IN NEXT MONTH.
/?......
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TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
7
EMPLOYERS REMINDED OF WORKERS STATUTORY HOLIDAYS
******
THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR. PETER WILLIAMS, TODAY REMINDED EMPLOYERS THAT THE TUEN NG (DRAGON BOAT) FESTIVAL, WHICH THIS YEAR FALLS ON TUESDAY (JUNE 21) IS ONE OF THE TEN STATUTORY HOLIDAYS UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE.
MR. WILLIAMS EMPHASISED THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE APPLY NOT ONLY TO INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYEES BUT ALSO TO EMPLOYEES IN THE ENTIRE COMMERCIAL SECTOR, INCLUDING THE SERVICES AND CATERING TRADES.
UNDER THE ORDINANCE, ALL MANUAL EMPLOYEES WITHOUT DISTINCTION AND INCLUDING DOMESTIC SERVANTS, IRRESPECTIVE OF THEIR EARNINGS AND ALL NON-MANUAL EMPLOYEES EARNING NOT MORE THAN $2,000 A MONTH, ARE ENTITLED TO THE HOLIDAY.
THEY MUST ALSO BE PAID FOR THE DAY OFF IF THEY HAVE WORKED CONTINUOUSLY FOR THEIR EMPLOYERS FOR THREE MONTHS IMMEDIATELY PRECEDING THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY.
IF THE EMPLOYER REQUIRES AN EMPLOYEE TO WORK ON A STATUTORY HOLIDAY, HE MUST GIVE HIM AT LEAST 48 HOURS NOTICE, AND HE MUST GIVE HIS EMPLOYEE AN ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAY WITHIN 60 DAYS OF THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY.
IF THE EMPLOYER INTENDS TO GIVE HIS EMPLOYEE AN ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAY BEFORE THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY, HE MUST NOTIFY HIM 48 HOURS IN ADVANCE OF THAT ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAY. AND IF AN ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAY IS TO BE GIVEN AFTER THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY, THE EMPLOYER MUST INFORM HIS EMPLOYEE OF THE ARRANGEMENT AT LEAST 48 HOURS BEFORE THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY.
COMPLAINTS OR ENQUIRIES ABOUT STATUTORY HOLIDAYS MAY BE MADE TO THE NEAREST BRANCH OFFICE OF THE LABOUR RELATIONS SERVICE. THE TELEPHONE NUMBERS ARE: FOR KOWLOON EAST 3-205638- KOWLOON WEST 3-201652- KWUN TONG 3-898520- TSUEN WAN 12-422096- YUEN LONG 12-760261 EXT. 82- AND HONG KONG ISLAND 5-282523 EXT. 60.
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TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
8
PHOTO-ENGRAVING FOR HK CERTIFICATE OF IDENTITY
*****
PHOTO-ENGRAVING OF HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF IDENTITY MAY BE APPLIED LATER THIS YEAR TO DETER FORGERY.
THIS WAS REVEALED TODAY BY MR. CHOU KAM-HON, PRINCIPAL IMMIGRATION OFFICER, AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE LIONS CLUB OF LION ROCK, WHEN HE SPOKE ABOUT THE PROBLEMS OF FORGED PASSPORTS.
HONG KONG WOULD BE THE FIRST IN THE WORLD TO USE THIS LATEST INVENTION WHEN THE EQUIPMENT ARRIVE IN OCTOBER.
BUT PHOTO-ENGRAVING -- A METHOD WHEREBY PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE ORIGINAL HOLDERS OF THE TRAVEL DOCUMENTS REPRODUCED BY THE MACHINE CANNOT BE REPLACED - WOULD PRIMARILY BE APPLIED TO THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF IDENTITY FOR FURTHER OBSERVATION, MR. CHOU EXPLAINED.
+HOWEVER, THE PROBLEM OF FORGED PASSPORTS ARE UNLIKELY TO BE ERADICATED BY THE INTRODUCION OF PHOTO-ENGRAVI NG,+ MR. CHOU WARNED.
+AT PRESENT THERE ARE TENS OF THOUSANDS OF PASSPORTS AND C. I.S BEING IN USE AND THE GENUINENESS OF ANY ONE OF THEM MAY EASILY BE NULLIFIED BY SUBSTITUTION OF PHOTOGRAPHS.+
FORGED PASSPORTS HAD A NUMBER OF EFFECTS ON HONG KONG RESIDENTS, MR. CHOU SAID, AND ONE OF THEM WAS THAT LOCAL RESIDENTS GOING ABROAD ON BUSINESS OR PLEASURE TRIPS WERE NOW INEVITABLY SUBJECT TO AN IMMIGRATION EXAMINATION WHICH HAD NEVER BEEN MORE RIGOROUS AND ACCORDINGLY, INCONVENIENCES ARE CAUSED.
MR. CHOU THEN GAVE THE FOLLOWING ADVICE TO LOCAL RESIDENTS:
* KEEP YOUR PASSPORTS OR C.I.S IN SAFE CUSTODY TO PREVENT THEM FROM FALLING INTO THE HANDS OF LAW-BREAKERS"
* DO NOT SELL YOUR TRAVEL DOCUMENTS OUT OF GREEDINESS FOR PROFITS, BECAUSE THIS IS AN OFFENCE AGAINST THE LAW. MOREOVER, IF THE BUYER VIOLATES THE LAW IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY, THE CRIMINAL RECORD WILL EE MADE IN YOUR NAME INSTEAD OF HIS"
* DO NOT SEEK ENTRY TO ANY FOREIGN COUNTRY ON FORGED PASSPORTS BECAUSE, AFTER ALL, COUNTERFEIT DOCUMENTS ARE SUSCEPTIBLE TO DETECTION- AND
* REPORT PASSPORT FORGERS TO THE AUTHORITIES AS A CITIZEN
SHOULD
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/9
TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
9
JAPANESE INDUSTRIALISTS VISIT TUEN MUN
******
THE GOVERNMENT WILL MAKE AVAILABLE 12 HECTARES OF LAND FOR INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT IN TUEN MUN NEW TOWN OVER THE NEXT FOUR YEARS, A GROUP OF 15 JAPANESE INDUSTRIALISTS WERE TOLD DURING THEIR INSPECTION TOUR OF THE INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS OF THE NEW TOWN THIS AFTERNOON.
THE GROUP, CURRENTLY ON A THREE-DAY VISIT IN HONG KONG, WAS ACCOMPANIED ON THE TOUR OF THE NEW TOWN BY MR. RONALD CROSS, ESTATE SURVEYOR OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICE, AND MR. ARTHUR CHAN, CHIEF TOWN PLANNING OFFICER OF THE P.W.D.’S TUEN MUN DEVELOPMENT OFFICE.
THEY TOLD THE VISITORS THAT INDUSTRIAL LAND WOULD BE PRODUCED STEADILY IN TUEN MUN TO KEEP IN STEP WITH THE GROWING POPULATION’S NEED FOR EMPLOYMENT.
AT PRESENT, THEY SAID, THERE ARE ALREADY 13 FACTORIES, AND A FURTHER 20 ARE BEING BUILT AND WILL BE OPERATIONAL LATER THIS YEAR OR EARLY NEXT YEAR.
THEY EXPLAINED THAT A MAJOR GOAL IN THE PLANNING FOR THE NEW TOWN HAD BEEN TO ENCOURAGE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A FULL RANGE OF INDUSTRIES, WITH EMPHASIS ON THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR.
TO ACHIEVE THIS, SOME 126 HECTARES OF LAND HAD BEEN RESERVED FOR LIGHT INDUSTRIAL USE.
THE VISITING GROUP, HEADED BY MR. K. OHASHI, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE JAPAN OVERSEAS ENTERPRISE ASSOCIATION, ALSO HAD A PANORAMIC VIEW FROM A VANTAGE POINT OF AREAS OF LAND BEING DEVELOPED FOR INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT.
MEANWHILE, THE SECRETARY FOR HOUSING, MR. A.J. SCOTT, TODAY WENT ON A DAY-LONG FAMILIARISATION TOUR OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.
ACCOMPANIED BY THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES (DEVELOPMENT), MR. JOHN TODD, HE SAW DEVELOPMENTS OF THE THREE NEW TOWNS OF SHA TIN, TUEN MUN AND TSUEN WAN, AND THE MARKET TOWN OF TAI PO.
PRIOR TO THE VISIT, MR. SCOTT HAD DISCUSSIONS WITH THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES, ON THE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME OF THE NEW TERRITORIES, WITH PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO PUBLIC HOUSING.
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/10......
TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
- 10 -
FULL-SCALE EMPLOYMENT SURVEY IN WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS *****
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT IS CONDUCTING A FULL-SCALE EMPLOYMENT SURVEY WHICH COVERS ALL WHOLESALE (INCLUDING IMPORT/EXPORT) AND RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS.
THIS ENQUIRY WILL GIVE DETAILED INFORMATION ON EMPLOYMENT LEVELS AND TRENDS IN THESE TRADES, AND PROVIDE AN UP-TO-DATE AND COMPREHENSIVE DIRECTORY WHICH WILL BE THE BASIS FOR SUBSEQUENT SAMPLE SURVEYS.
SURVEY CARDS HAVE BEEN SENT TO SOME 67,000 ESTABLISHMENTS SEEKING INFORMATION ON THE NUMBER OF PERSONS ENGAGED AND VACANCIES AS AT JUNE 15, 1977.
MANAGEMENTS ARE REQUESTED TO COMPLETE AND RETURN THE SURVEY CARDS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT NOT LATER THAN JUNE 22, 1977 USING THE POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPES PROVIDED.
CONCURRENT WITH THIS FULL-SCALE SURVEY FOR WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS, EMPLOYMENT ENQUIRIES ARE ALSO BEING MADE OF SOME 16,000 SELECTED INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENTS AND 19,000 ESTABLISHMENTS IN A VARIETY OF OTHER TRADES AND SERVICES.
THE COMMISSIONER FOR CENSUS AND STATISTICS HAS APPEALED TO MANAGEMENTS FOR THEIR CO-OPERATION TO RETURN SURVEY CARDS PROMPTLY SO AS TO ENABLE SURVEY RESULTS TO BE RELEASED EARLY.
HE EMPHASISED THAT INFORMATION RELATING TO INDIVIDUAL ESTABLISHMENTS WOULD BE TREATED IN STRICT CONFIDENCE AND WOULD BE USED SOLELY FOR COMPILING STATISTICAL TABLES.
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TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 1977
EYE DOTTING OF DRAGON BOATS BY SENIOR GOVT OFFICIALS
******
NOTE TO EDITORS:
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES, WILL BE AMONG THREE GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS TO OFFICIATE AT AN EYE-DOTTING CEREMONY OF THREE NEW DRAGON BOATS IN TA I PO ON THURSDAY (JUNE 16).
THE CEREMONY WILL TAKE PLACE AT 10 A.M. AT THE TAI WONG YEH SHRINE AT YUEN CHAU TSAI.
THE TWO OTHER GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS TO OFFICIATE AT THE CEREMONY WILL BE MR. E.H. NICHOLS, DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, AND MR. CLIVE OXLEY, TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICER.
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO COVER THE CEREMONY. PRESS TRANSPORT WILL BE PROVIDED. A GOVERNMENT VAN, AM 2088, WILL LEAVE THE CAR SUB-POOL BEHIND THE TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICE AT 9 A.M. TO TAKE PRESS REPRESENTATIVES TO AND FROM TAI PO.
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54 DISABLED PLACED TO WORK IN MAY ******
FIFTY-FOUR DISABLED PEOPLE WERE PLACED TO WORK BY THE JOB PLACEMENT UNIT OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT LAST MONTH.
AMONG THE DISABLED EMPLOYED, 19 WERE CRIPPLED, 16 DEAF, SIX BLIND, FIVE MENTALLY RETARDED AND EIGHT EX-MENTAL PATIENTS.
SIXTEEN OF THEM WERE EMPLOYED AS ASSEMBLERS IN ELECTRONIC FACTORIES AND NINE AS GENERAL WORKERS. THE OTHERS WERE ENGAGED IN A WIDE RANGE OF TRADES SUCH AS PACKERS, TELEPHONE OPERATORS, IRONING WORKERS AND MACHINE SEWING WORKERS.
WITH REGARD TO THEIR SALARY, 34 WERE EMPLOYED ON DAILY RATE RANGING FROM $14 TO $28, WHILE TWO WERE PAID ON PIECE-RATE BASIS.
THE SALARY OF THE OTHERS AVERAGED $570 A MONTH.
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
MORE OPTION GIVEN WORKERS IN 7 DAYS PAID ANNUAL LEAVE 1
NO DANGER OF AVALANCHES AT REMEDIAL SLOPES ...... ’ 6
SUPPORT FOR CONSUMER COUNCIL BILL ................ 7
NOISE BAN MAY BE EXTENDED ........................ 3
TYPHOON SAFETY IN INTEREST OF EMPLOYEES .......... 9
MORE HOLIDAY FACILITIES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES ... 11
POSSIBLE CONTROL OF PRIVATE MEDICAL LABORATORIES .... 11
WELFARE SERVICES FOR TEMPORARY HOUSING AREAS ..... 12
APPLICATIONS EXPECTED NEXT JANUARY FOR HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME FLATS ...................................... 12
MOTOR-CYCLES INSPECTED FOR EXCESSIVE NOISE ....... 13
NO GREEN PAPER ON POLLUTION CONTROL .............. 13
161,000 ENROLLED AT KINDERGARTENS ................ 14
GOVERNMENT OWNED RESIDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION ....... 14
N.T. LAND TRANSACTION REGISTRATIONS NOW FASTER ... 15
EETTER CONTROL OF PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS ........ 16
ANTI-POLLUTION LAW REQUIRES ADMINISTRATIVE INSTRUCTIONS 17
TAI HANG SQUATTER AREA TO BE FURTHER CLEANED UP .. 18
SECOND LEI MUK SHUE COMMUNITY HALL TO EE OPENED .. 19
PLB RESTRICTIONS IN SHAU KEI WAN AND CHAI WAN ROADS . 23
BILLS PASSED ..................................... 20
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
MORE FLEXIBILITY FOR PROPOSED SEVEN DAYS PAID ANNUAL LEAVE *****
THERE WILL BE GREATER FLEXIBILITY IN THE PROPOSED NEW LAW ON THE SEVEN DAYS PAID ANNUAL LEAVE FOR WORKERS, THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, THE HON. PETER WILLIAMS TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE RESUMED DEBATE OF THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) BILL 1977 THIS AFTERNOON.
HE DISCLOSED THIS FOLLOWING SPEECHES OF SUPPORT FOR THE BILL BY SEVEN UNOFFICIALS MOST OF WHOM ALSO URGED FOR THE NEED OF PROVIDING MORE FLEXIBILITY IN TAKING THE LEAVE BY WORKERS.
MR. WILLIAMS SAID THAT SINCE THERE HAD BEEN SIGNIFICANT OBJECTION TO THE ARRANGMENTS AT PRESENT PROPOSED IN THE BILL HE WOULD BE MOVING AN AMENDMENT IN COMMITTEE TO PROVIDE FOR GREATER FLEXIBILITY.
HE SA IDs +WHERE AN EMPLOYEE WISHES TO HAVE SEVEN CONSECUTIVE DAYS HOLIDAY, LEGISLATION WILL CLEARLY PROVIDE FOR THIS RIGHT. BUT IF HE WISHES TO SPLIT THE SEVEN DAYS, THE AMENDMENT WILL ENABLE HIM TO TAKE A MINIMUM OF FOUR CONSECUTIVE DAYS OFF DURING THE YEAR.
+THESE FOUR DAYS,+ MR. WILLIAMS SAID, +MUST EXCLUDE STATUTORY HOLIDAYS AND REST DAYS.
+THE BALANCE OF THREE DAYS CAN BE TAKEN CONSECUTIVELY OR SEPARATELY AT ANOTHER TIME DURING THE YEAR,+ HE ADDED.
MR. WILLIAMS EXPLAINED THAT THIS ARRANGEMENT, WHILE RETAINING THE EMPLOYEE’S ENTITLEMENT TO SEVEN DAYS CONSECUTIVE LEAVE A YEAR, ALLOWS, BY THE ALTERNATIVE OPTION OF FOUR DAYS CONSECUTIVE LEAVE WITH THE BALANCE BEING TAKEN SEPARATELY, FOR THAT GREATER FLEXIBILITY WHICH HE SAID MANY EMPLOYEES APPEARED TO VALUE NOW.
HE SAID: +ALL WILL OF COURSE BE ABLE, IN CONSULTATION WITH THEIR EMPLOYERS, TO LINK THE VARIOUS PORTIONS OF THEIR ANNUAL LEAVE WITH STATUTORY HOLIDAYS OR REST DAYS SO THAT THEY CAN HAVE A LONGER BREAK FROM WORK.
+1 MUST EMPHASIZE,+ MR. WILLIAMS CONTINUED, +THAT IN ALLOWING FOR THIS OPTION OF FOUR CONSECUTIVE DAYS, IT REMAINS THE GOVERNMENT’S AIM TO LEGISLATE FOR SEVEN CONSECUTIVE DAYS PAID HOLIDAY FOR THOSE ELIGIBLE FOR ANNUAL LEAVE.+
SPEAKING ON BEHALF OF HIS UNOFFICIAL COLLEAGUES, THE HON. PETER C. WONG, WHO IS CONVENER OF AN AD HOC GROUP STUDYING THE BILL, SAID THE AMENDMENTS TO THE BILL SUGGESTED WERE ADVOCATED BY THE MAJORITY OF THE UNOFFICIALS.
/THEY FAVOURED, ......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
2
THEY FAVOURED, AS AN INTERIM MEASURE, A COMPROMISE SOLUTION ALLOWING MORE FLEXIBILITY REGARDING THE MANNER BY WHICH THE ANNUAL LEAVE MAY BE TAKEN, ALTHOUGH A FEW WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION PASSED INTO LAW WITHOUT DELAY.
THE PRINCIPLE OF THE BILL, HE SAID, WAS FULLY SUPPORTED BY ALL THE UNOFFICIALS. HE EMPHASIZED THAT THEY +FULLY SUBSCRIBE TO THE VIEW THAT EVENTUALLY THE FULL OBJECTIVES OF THE BILL WILL HAVE TO BE ACHIEVED.+
SIX OTHER UNOFFICIALS ALSO SPOKE ON THE BILL.
THE HON. ALEX WU SUGGESTED THAT ITS PROVISIONS COULD BE EXTENDED +TO ENABLE THE COMMISSIONER’S INSPECTORS TO CHECK WHETHER ANOTHER EMPLOYER IS DEFEATING THE OBJECT OF THE LEGISLATION BY EMPLOYING WORKERS DURING THEIR HOLIDAY PERIODS.+
+IT SEEMS TO ME THAT IF WE ARE DETERMINED TO ENSURE THAT WORKERS BENEFIT FROM A HOLIDAY WE MUST GO THE WHOLE DISTANCE,* HE SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THE NECESSITY FOR CAREFULLY PLANNED, PREPARED AND EXECUTED RECREATIONAL PROGRAMMES.
+ IF ADEQUATE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES, IN THE WIDEST SENSE OF THE TERM, EXISTED THEN THE PROBLEM OF ENFORCEMENT WOULD NOT ARISE. WORKERS WOULD WELCOME AN OPPORTUNITY TO REST FROM WORK BECAUSE THERE WOULD BE MANY AND VARIED OUTLETS AVAILABLE TO THEM,* HE SAID.
THE HON. S.L. CHEN ALSO DREW ATTENTION TO THE NEED FOR ADEQUATE RECREATION FACILITIES AND FOR ENSURING THAT THE HOLIDAYS ARE GENUINELY SPENT.
HE PROPOSED THAT DURING AN INITIAL PERIOD OF FIVE YEARS, EMPLOYEES SHOULD BE GIVEN THE FREEDOM TO TAKE THEIR LEAVE CONSECUTIVELY OR OTHERWISE.
+DURING THIS PERIOD,* HE SAID, +GOVERNMENT MUST TAKE STEPS TO DEVELOP, WITH PARTICIPATION OF PRIVATE BUSINESS SECTORS, IF NECESSARY, ADEQUATE RECREATIONAL AND REST FACILITIES WHICH WOULD BE NECESSARY TO SUPPORT THE FULL AND MEANINGFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION.*
MR. CHEN SAID THE BILL DID NOT HAVE PROVISION WHICH WOULD PROHIBIT WORKERS TO TAKE UP GAINFUL EMPLOYMENT ON THE SEVEN CONSECUTIVE DAYS’ HOLIDAY.
+l FULLY APPRECIATE THAT SUCH A PROVISION MIGHT BE DIFFICULT TO ENFORCE, BUT THIS SHOULD NOT BE A REASON FOR NOT HAVING THE PROVISION,* HE SAID.
REV. THE HON. PATRICK MCGOVERN SAID THE GOVERNMENT, +HOWEVER BELATEDLY, HAS OVERCOME ITS OUTMODED LAISSEZ-FAIRE ATTITUDE AND MADE IN THIS BILL A POSITIVE STEP FORWARD TO HELP WORKERS.*
/HE EXHORTED
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
3
HE EXHORTED WORKERS ON THEIR PART TO TAKE A PARALLEL STEP FORWARD AND OVERCOME THEIR FEARS AND OUTMODED ATTITUDES BY DETERMINING TO HELP THEMSELVES BY MAKING SURE THE NEW LAW IS FULLY IMPLEMENTED.
HE HOPED THAT A SIDE EFFECT WOULD BE MORE CONSULTATION BETWEEN EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES, ALTHOUGH, HE SAID, HIS CHIEF FEAR WAS THAT THERE WAS A WEAKNESS IN THE BILL ON THIS ONE POINT.
HE NOTED THAT IN HIS EFFORTS TO FIND OUT WHAT WORKERS REALLY WANTED IN THE LINE OF PAID LEAVE, ONE DESIRE EMERGED VERY CLEARLY: +BLUE-COLLAR WORKERS WANT EQUALITY WITH WHITE-COLLAR WORKERS. THEY WANT ALL PUBLIC HOLIDAYS TO BE INDUSTRIAL OR STATUTORY HOLIDAYS ALSO.*
A LOT OF THE MONEY SPENT ON PRE-VOCATIONAL, VOCATIONAL AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION WOULD BE WASTED, +UNLESS WORKING CONDITIONS IN INDUSTRY AND THE SOCIAL STATUS OF INDUSTRIAL WORKERS ARE RAISED TO A LEVEL AT LEAST AS HIGH AS THAT OF WHITE COLLAR WORKERS,* REV. MCGOVERN SAID.
HE URGED THAT THE EXPERIMENTAL PERIOD OF SOME OF THE MEASURES IN THE BILL BE USED TO WATCH VERY CAREFULLY AND GUARD AGAINST ANY ATTEMPT TO ABUSE ITS FLEXIBILITY.
THE HON. WONG LAM SPOKE UP FOR HAVING THE ANNUAL LEAVE SPLIT INTO ONE PART OF FOUR CONSECUTIVE DAYS AND ANOTHER PART TO BE TAKEN IN SEPARATE PERIODS, WITH THE EMPLOYEE HAVING THE RIGHT, IF HE WANTS, TO ASK FOR AN UNBROKEN SEVEN DAYS LEAVE WITHOUT GIVING REASONS.
+THIS WOULD LESSEN THE ADVERSE EFFECT THIS TYPE OF LONG LEAVE WOULD HAVE ON SMALL MANUFACTURERS, AND WOULD ALSO HELP TO EASE TRAFFIC CONGESTION AND THE PROBLEM OF CHOOSING A PLACE TO SPEND ONE’S LEAVE,* HE SAID.
HE EXPLAINED THAT TO THE SMALLER MANUFACTURERS, THE SEVEN DAYS CONSECUTIVE LEAVE WOULD NOT SIMPLY BE A TWO PER CENT INCREASE IN THE ANNUAL WAGE BILL, BECAUSE THE WHOLE PRODUCTION LINE MIGHT BE AFFECTED BY THE ABSENCE OF THE USUALLY SMALL NUMBER OF SKILLED WORKERS.
HE DID NOT AGREE WITH THE SUGGESTION FOR PAY IN LIEU OF LEAVE, WHICH +APART FROM BEING AT VARIANCE WITH THE SPIRIT OF THIS LEGISLATION, COULD EASILY LEAD TO VARIOUS TYPES OF MALPRACTICES.*
HE PROPOSED THAT THE LEGISLATION SHOULD BE REVIEWED AFTER IMPLEMENTATION FOR TWO YEARS TO DECIDE WHETHER IT IS NECESSARY TO MAKE THE SEVEN CONSECUTIVE DAYS MANDATORY.
THE HON. LEUNG TAT-SHING STRESSED, HOWEVER, THAT THERE HAD TO BE RIGIDITY IN THE LEGISLATION AS A SAFEGUARD FOR THE WORKERS AGAINST EXPLOITATION.
/♦TO ALLOW .....
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
4
NP +T0 ALLOW THE EMPLOYERS A TOTAL AND FINAL SAY OVER ANY OPTION. AS SOME HAVE SUGGESTED, WILL RESULT IN A GREAT NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES, WHO ARE TRADITIONALLY PASSIVE IN THE FACE OF AUTHORITY, BEING TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF.
+OTHER EMPLOYEES MIGHT BE RELUCTANT TO MAKE A STAND FOR FEAR OF REPRISALS, WHILE STILL OTHERS WOULD SUFFER LOSS OF DIGNITY AND PRIDE AT THE HANDS OF UNSCRUPULOUS EMPLOYERS IN ORDER TO GAIN WHAT IS RIGHFULLY THEIRS. A NUMBER COULD BE EASILY LURED INTO MONETARY SETTLEMENTS, TOTALLY DEFEATING THE AIMS OF OUR SOCIAL OBJECTIVES,* HE SAID.
MR. LEUNG NOTED THAT IT WAS A FACT VERIFIED BY EXPERIENCED PERSONNEL MANAGERS AND PSYCHOLOGISTS ALIKE THAT THE ANNUAL LEAVE WOULD ENABLE WORKERS +TO RECUPERATE MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY FROM THE STRAINS OF LABOUR IN THE PREVIOUS 12 MONTHS, RETURNING TO THEIR PLACES OF WORK WITH RENEWED EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY IN THEIR JOBS.*
THE BILL WOULD ALSO REMOVE ONE OF THE UNFORTUNATE DISTINCTIONS WHICH NOW EXISTED BETWEEN BLUE-COLLAR AND WHITE-COLLAR EMPLOYEES AND ENCOURAGE MORE YOUNG PEOPLE TO JOIN INDUSTRY, HE ADDED.
THE HON. JAMES WU SAID THE PRINCIPLE OF SEVEN DAYS’ PAID LEAVE WAS UNANIMOUSLY ACCEPTED IN CONSULTATIONS AMONG INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATIONS, BETWEEN MANAGEMENT AND WORKERS AND IN SURVEYS OF WORKERS’ OPINION BY TWO STATUTORY BODIES. BOTH EMPLOYERS AND WORKERS, HE ADDED, WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE LEAVE ARRANGEMENT FLEXIBLE.
ONE OF THE SUBSEQUENT SUGGESTIONS TO THE GOVERNMENT OF FOUR JOINT ASSOCIATIONS REPRESENTING INDUSTRY, TRADE, AND EMPLOYERS, HE POINTED OUT, WAS FOR THE EMPLOYEE TO HAVE THE OPTION OF TAKING THE LEAVE CONSECUTIVELY OR, IF HE SO WISHED, NON-CONSECUTIVELY AT AGREED TIMES ON NEGOTIATION WITH HIS EMPLOYER, OR WORK FOR ADDITIONAL PAY.
FROM INDUSTRY’S POINT OF VIEW, MR. WU NOTED, IT WAS GENERALLY FELT THAT THE EXTRA COST OF 2.3 PER CENT IN WAGES COULD BE TOLERATED BUT THE DIFFICULTY IN ARRANGING FOR SEVEN CONSECUTIVE DAYS’ LEAVE COULD NOT BE OVERCOME WITHOUT STOPPING PRODUCTION AND LOSING ORDERS TO THE EXTENT OF HUNDREDS OF MILLION OF DOLLARS A YEAR.
+INDUSTRIALISTS DREW ATTENTION TO THE FACT THAT WITHOUT A SUBSTANTIAL HOME MARKET, HONG KONG FACTORIES USUALLY CANNOT MAKE STANDARD BRAND GOODS OR MODELS FOR STOCK DURING SLACK PERIODS, BUT MUST CATER AT ALL TIMES TO ORDERS FOR SPECIAL DESIGNS AND PATTERNS OF THEIR EXPORT-CUSTOMERS,+ HE SAID.
/answering .....
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977 - 5 -
ANSWERING VARIOUS POINTS BROUGHT OUT BY THE UNOFFICIALS, THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR. WILLIAMS POINTED OUT THAT ANOTHER REASON FOR MAKING THE AMENDMENT TO PROVIDE AN OPTION OF FOUR CONSECUTIVE DAYS HOLIDAY WAS RELATED TO A COMMENT MADE BY MR. S.L. CHEN.
HE SAID: +THERE IS GOOD REASON TO BELIEVE THAT, GENERALLY, OUR RECREATIONAL FACILITIES WILL BE ABLE TO COPE WITH THE CONSEQUENCES OF THIS INCREASED ANNUAL LEAVE — AND INDEED WILL ENCOURAGE A WIDER SPREAD OF USAGE WHICH IS CURRENTLY TENDING TO BE CONFINED TO SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
♦HOWEVER, A NUMBER OF INFORMED PERSONS HAVE RESPONDED TO THE PUBLICATION OF THE BILL BY WARNING THAT SIGNIFICANT STRAINS WILL BE IMPOSED ON RECREATIONAL AND ASSOCIATED SERVICES. WE WILL ALSO BE WATCHING THIS CAREFULLY DURING 1978,+ HE SAID.
REPLYING TO REFERENCES MADE BY MR. ALEX WU AND OTHER UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS THAT MEASURES SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE LEGISLATION TO ENSURE THAT WORKERS GRANTED THEIR ANNUAL LEAVE ARE NOT EMPLOYED BY ANOTHER FACTORY, THE COMMISSIONER SAID* +1 THINK THIS POTENTIAL ABUSE OF THE NEW ARRANGEMENTS MUST BE LEFT OUT OF THE LEGISLATION.
+SECTION 41G OF THE BILL DESCRIBES THE NEW RECORDS TO BE KEPT BY EMPLOYERS. I WOULD NOT WISH TO ADD TO THESE UNLESS THE . BENEFITS TO BE GAINED ARE MANIFEST,* HE SAID.
MR. WILLIAMS SAID HE WILL BE MOVING IN COMMITTEE ANOTHER AMENDMENT WHICH WILL AFFECT THE PROPOSED SECTION 41A(2) OF THE BILL UNDER WHICH EMPLOYERS MUST GIVE A MINIMUM OF ONE MONTH’S NOTICE IN WRITING TO EMPLOYEES OF THE TIME APPOINTED FOR THEIR LEAVE EXCEPT WHERE A SHORTER PERIOD OF NOTICE IS MUTUALLY AGREED.
HE SAID THAT IT HAD BEEN PERSUASIVELY ARGUED THAT A MONTH’S WRITTEN NOTICE COULD RESULT IN GREAT DIFFICULTY WHEN A FACTORY RECEIVED OVERSEAS ORDERS AT SHORT NOTICE AND HIS AMENDMENT WILL REDUCE THIS PERIOD TO TWO WEEKS THUS PROVIDING FOR GREATER FLEXIBILITY.
HE ADDED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO REVIEW THIS AFTER A PERIOD OF TIME TO ENSURE THAT IT IS WORKING SATISFACTORILY.
MR. WILLIAMS THEN REPORTED THAT THOSE WHO HAD EARLIER PRESSED FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE LEGISLATION TO ALLOW FOR PAY-IN-LIEU APPEAR NOW TO HAVE ABANDONED THEIR POSITION ADDING THAT SUCH AN OPTION WOULD DEFEAT THE MAIN OBJECT OF THE BILL.
MR. WILLIAMS ALSO SAID THAT WITH THE NEW HOLIDAYS STARTING NEXT YEAR THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL BE ISSUING A SIMPLE PAMPHLET GIVING DETAILS OF ALL THE HOLIDAYS THAT ARE NOW PROVIDED BY LABOUR LEGISLATION TO ASSIST EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES ALIKE.
'-.DAY, JUNE 15, 1977
6
SLOPES REMEDIAL WORKS
*****
THERE IS NO LONGER ANY DANGER OF MUD AVALANCHES AT THE HOUSING ESTATE SLOPES BEING RECONSTRUCTED UNDER THE CRASH REMEDIAL PROGRAMME, THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS, MR. DAVID MCDONALD, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
+WORK ON THE SLOPES HAS NOW REACHED A STAGE WHERE THERE IS NO LONGER ANY POSSIBILITY OF A MUD AVALANCHE SUCH AS THAT WHICH OCCURRED AT SAU MAU PING LAST YEAR,+ HE SAID.
MR. MCDONALD WAS SPEAKING IN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON. JAMES WU WHO ASKED ABOUT THE WORKS BEING UNDERTAKEN TO MAKE THE SLOPES SAFE, FOLLOWING THE SAU MAU PING LANDSLIDE REPORT.
THE REPORT, PUBLISHED IN FEBRUARY THIS YEAR, REVEALED THAT MUD AVALANCHES AROSE BECAUSE OF RAIN INFILTRATION INTO LOOSELY COMPACTED SOIL- AND RECOMMENDED STRINGENT NEW STANDARDS OF SOIL COMPACTION.
THE CRASH REMEDIAL PROGRAMME, COSTING ABOUT $35 MILLION, WAS LAUNCHED IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE CHINESE NEW YEAR AND BASICALLY INVOLVED EXCAVATING THE TOP LAYER OF EACH SLOPE TO A DEPTH OF AT LEAST THREE METRES, AND THEN RECOMPACTING IT IN SOLID HORIZONTAL LAYERS TO THE STRICT NEW STANDARDS LAID DOWN IN THE REPORT.
MR. MCDONALD TOLD THE COUNCIL THAT ALTOGETHER 17 FILL SLOPES IN PUBLIC HOUSING AREAS WERE BEING RECONSTRUCTED, INCLUDING 11 WHICH MIGHT HAVE AFFECTED TENANTS.
+WORKS ON 12 OF THE SLOPES ARE ALREADY SUBSTANTIALLY COMPLETE, BUT SOME FILLING AND FINISHING WORK IS OUTSTANDING ON THE OTHER FIVE SITES,+ HE SAID.
+IN THESE FIVE INSTANCES, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT IN CONDITIONS OF HEAVY RAINFALL THERE COULD BE SOME SURFACE EROSION AND THAT SILT-LADEN WATER COULD COLLECT AT THE FOOT OF THE SLOPES.
+HOWEVER, I MUST STRESS THAT SUCH A DISCHARGE FROM THE SLOPES WOULD CONSTITUTE A NUISANCE — BUT NOT A DANGER,+ MR. MCDONALD SAID.
AND STEPS HAD ALREADY BEEN TAKEN TO SEE THAT THIS WATER DID NOT GET INTO BUILDINGS AND INCONVENIENCE TENANTS, HE ADDED.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
7
CONSUMER COUNCIL BILL RECEIVES SUPPORT
******
TWO UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS TODAY SUPPORTED THE CONSUMER COUNCIL BILL 1977 DURING THE RESUMED DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
THE BILL SEEKS TO INCORPORATE THE CONSUMER COUNCIL AND TO GIVE IT A PERMANENT LEGAL STATUS. AS SUCH, THE CONSUMER COUNCIL CAN BE SUED AS A LEGAL ENTITY, WHILE ITS MEMBERS AND STAFF OR ITS COMMITTEES WILL BE PROTECTED FROM PERSONAL LIABILITY FOR ALL ACTS LEGITIMATELY DONE ON BEHALF OF THE CONSUMER WATCHDOG BODY.
DR. THE HON. HENRY HU, CONVENER OF AN AD HOC GROUP OF UNOFFICIALS STUDYING THE BILL, SUGGESTED THAT THE WORD +CONSIDER ING+ IN THE BILL SHOULD BE CHANGED TO +EXAMINING+ SO THAT IT WILL ENABLE THE CONSUMER COUNCIL TO PERFORM ITS FUNCTIONS AS AT PRESENT.
+MOREOVER, ’EXAMINING' WOULD BE A MORE APPROPRIATE WORD THAN 'INVESTIGATING' WHICH HAS EMOTIVE CONNOTATIONS, AS THE COUNCIL’S FUNCTION IS TO EXAMINE CONSUMER COMPLAINTS AND NOT TO LOOK INTO THE BUSINESS OF THE COMPANIES OF PARTIES CONCERNED.+ HE SAID.
IN CARRYING OUT ITS TASKS, THE COUNCIL ON THE ONE HAND HAD TO STRIKE A SENSIBLE BALANCE BETWEEN CONSUMER PROTECTION AND ENCROACHMENT OF BUSINESS INTERESTS, AND ON THE OTHER HAND, MUST NOT BE UNDULY FETTERED BY RIGID TERMS OF REFERENCE, HE ADDED.
THE HON. HILTON CHEONG-LEEN ALSO SUPPORTED THE BILL AND THE VIEWS OF DR. HU. BUT, HE ADDED THAT +TO CONFER ON THE COUNCIL AT THIS STAGE PATENTLY STRONG POWERS TO INVESTIGATE AND TO OBTAIN ANY INFORMATION IN THE COURSE OF INVESTIGATION WOULD BE TANTAMOUNT TO DAMAGING OR UNDULY DISTURBING THE SPIRIT OF FREE ENTERPRISE IN HONG KONG, BOTH IN PRINCIPLE AND IN PRACTICE.+
THE ACTING FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR. DAVID JORDAN, WELCOMED THE SUPPORT FOR THIS BILL BY DR. HU AND MR. CHEONG-LEEN AND ADDED THAT THE AMENDMENT SUGGESTED WOULD BE MOVED DURING THE COMMITTEE STAGE OF THE BILL ON JUNE 29.
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/8......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
8
EXTENSTION OF NOISE BAN
*****
A BILL WHICH SEEKS TO EXTEND THE HOURS OF BAN ON CONSTRUCTION NOISE AND THE NOISE FROM RECORD SHOPS RECEIVED ITS SECOND READING AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
MOVING THE SUMMARY OFFENCES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1977, THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, THE HON. DEREK JONES SAID ONE CLAUSE OF THE BILL WAS AIMED AT CONTROLLING THE NOISE CREATED BY PROPRIETORS OF RECORD SHOPS AND HAWKERS, WHO PLAYED RECORDS AND CASSETTE TAPES AT AN UNREASONABLY HIGH VOLUME FOR THE PURPOSE OF ATTRACTING CUSTOMERS, AND THUS DISTURBED PUBLIC TRANQUILITY.
MR. JONES SAID ANOTHER CLAUSE OF THE BILL DEALT WITH CONSTRUCTION NOISE. HE SAID THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION CONSIDERED THAT THE EXISTING PROVISIONS ON LIMITING THIS NOISE WHICH ONLY APPLIED TO PILING WORK, WHICH WAS BANNED BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 8 P.M. AND 6 A.M. AND ON PUBLIC HOLIDAYS, WERE NOT SUFFICIENT TO DEAL WITH THE PROBLEM.
HE SAID THE COMMITTEE HAD RECOMMENDED THAT THE RESTRICTIONS ON PILING SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO COVER THE USE OF ALL OTHER NOISY CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AND THAT THE RESTRICTED HOURS BE PROLONGED FROM 7 P.M. TO 7 A.M. AND ON PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
ONE CLAUSE OF THE BILL ALSO SOUGHT TO PLACE A BAN ON THE USE OF ALL POWERED MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT FOR THE PURPOSES OF CARRYING OUT ANY WORK BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 7 P.M. AND 7 A.M. AND ON PUBLIC HOLIDAYS, MR. JONES SAID.
THE SECRETARY NOTED THAT EXCEPTIONS TO THE GENERAL BAN. HOWEVER, WERE PROVIDED. +FIRST, IT PROVIDES THAT A SINGLE ITEM OF POWERED MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT CAN BE USED IN DOMESTIC PREMISES PROVIDED THAT THE EQUIPMENT IS OF A SIMPLE HAND-HELD TYPE.
+AND SECONDLY, PROVISION IS MADE-FOR THE USE OF CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT IN EMERGENCIES IN ORDER TO PREVENT INJURIES TO PERSONS OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY,+ HE SAID.
MR. JONES SAID THE BILL ALSO PROVIDED THAT THE NEW CONTROLS OVER THE USE OF POWERED MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT SHOULD COME INTO OPERATION ON JULY 1, 1979, TWO YEARS AFTER ENACTMENT.
+THIS DELAY SHOULD ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY ADEQUATE TIME TO COMPLETE MOST EXISTING CONTRACTS BEFORE THE MORE STRINGENT RESTRICTIONS ARE BROUGHT INTO FORCE + HE SAID
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/9
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
9
SAFETY INTERESTS OF EMPLOYEES DURING TROPICAL STORMS
* * * * *
A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY ADVISED EMPLOYERS TO ACT WITH COMMON SENSE WITH REGARD TO THE SAFETY INTERESTS OF THEIR EMPLOYEES DURING OR ON THE APPROACH OF A TROPICAL STORM, ALTHOUGH THE LAW DOES NOT LAY DOWN ANY PARTICULAR PROCEDURES TO FOLLOW ON SUCH OCCASIONS.
+TO AVOID CONFUSION,* HE SAID, +EMPLOYERS SHOULD REACH AN AGREEMENT WITH THEIR EMPLOYEES ON THE RULES FOR WORK, AND THE RELEASE FROM WORK, DURING OR ON THE APPROACH OF A TROPICAL STORM.*
+SUCH AN AGREEMENT SHOULD INCLUDE THE METHOD OF CALCULATING WAGES TO BE PAID UNDER VARIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES,* HE ADDED.
THE SPOKESMAN WAS COMMENTING ON THE EXPERIENCE OF PREVIOUS YEARS WHEN THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT RECEIVED MANY ENQUIRIES DURING THE TYPHOON SEASON FROM EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES SEEKING ADVICE ON THE SUBJECT.
+BASICALLY,* THE SPOKESMAN SAID, +IT IS A MATTER OF DECISION BETWEEN EACH EMPLOYER AND HIS EMPLOYEES, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE NATURE OF EMPLOYMENT AND THE INDIVIDUAL EMPLOYEE’S PLACE OF RESIDENCE, AVAILABILITY OF TRANSPORT AND OTHER FACTORS.
+CONFUSION OR EVEN DISPUTES CAN ARISE IF THERE IS A LACK OF PRIOR UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES AS TO WHAT TO DO WHEN A STORM IS COMING,* HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN ADVISED THAT THE IMPORTANT THING TO CONSIDER ON SUCH OCCASIONS IS THE EMPLOYEES’ SAFETY BOTH AT THE PLACE OF WORK AND DURING THE JOURNEY TO AND FROM HOME.
+FOR EXAMPLE, FIRMS SHOULD SEND THEIR EMPLOYEES HOME WHEN WARNING SIGNAL NUMBER EIGHT OR HIGHER IS HOISTED, OR WHEN SUSPENSION OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES IS IMMINENT.
+OF COURSE, EMPLOYEES WHO ARE REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL AND EMERGENCY DUTIES DURING A TROPICAL STORM WOULD BE EXCEPTIONS,* HE ADDED.
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT EMPLOYERS COULD ALWAYS APPROACH THE LABOUR RELATIONS SERVICE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT FOR APPROPRIATE ADVICE WHEN DRAFTING OR PREPARING THEIR AGREEMENTS CONCERNING ARRANGEMENTS.
THE SERVICE OPERATES IN THE FOLLOWING SIX BRANCH OFFICES OF THE DEPARTMENT:
* HONG KONG
/HONG KONG .....
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, '977
10
HONG KONG REGIONAL OFFICE,
NEW RODNEY BLOCK,
QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG TEL: 5-282523 EXT. 60
K KOWLOON EAST AND WEST
SAN PO KONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES,
PRINCE EDWARD ROAD,
SAN PO KONG, KOWLOON TEL: (KOWLOON EAST) 3-205638
(KOWLOON WEST) 3-201652
* KWUN TONG
KWUN TONG DISTRICT BRANCH OFFICE BUILDING,
TUNG YAN STREET, 2ND FLOOR, KWUN TONG, KOWLOON
K TSUEN WAN
CHARTERED BANK BUILDING, 3RD FLOOR, TSUEN WAN, NEW TERRITORIES
* YUEN LONG
ROOM 109,
YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICE, YUEN LONG, NEW TERRITORIES
TEL: 3-898520
TEL: 12-422096
TEL: 12-760261 EXT. 82
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/11
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
11
MORE HOLIDAY CAMPS AND GAZETTED BEACHES FOR THE N.T.
******
THE GOVERNMENT IS TO PROVIDE THREE MORE HOLIDAY CAMPS AND GAZETTE ANOTHER 12 PUBLIC BEACHES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WITHIN FIVE YEARS.
IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY UNOFFICIAL THE HON. HILTON CHEONG-LEEN, THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY THE HOLIDAY CAMPS WERE PLANNED FOR TSO KUNG TAM, TSUEN WAN, PAK TAM CHUNG, SAI KUNG ALONG WITH FURTHER DEVELOPMENT AT TAI MEI TUK, TAI PO.
+THIS IS NOT, BY ANY MEANS, ENOUGH AND THE QUESTION OF PROVIDING MORE — BOTH BY PRIVATE AND PUBLIC EFFORT — IS BEING ACTIVELY PURSUED,* HE SAID.
MR. AKERS-JONES SAID THE NUMBER OF GAZETTED BEACHES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WOULD BE INCREASED FROM 25 TO 28 THIS YEAR WHILE ANOTHER NINE WOULD BE GAZETTED OVER THE NEXT THREE TO FOUR YEARS.
-------0 ---------
CONTROL OF PRIVATE MEDICAL AND CLINICAL LABORATORIES UNDER STUDY ******
THE GOVERNMENT IS ACTIVELY CONSIDERING TO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO PROVIDE FOR CONTROL OF PRIVATELY-OPERATED MEDICAL AND CLINICAL LABORATORIES AS WELL AS FOR THE APPROPRIATE QUALIFICATIONS OF STAFF EMPLOYED IN THEM.
THIS WAS DISCLOSED BY THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES. DR. THE HON. K.L. THONG AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY WHEN HE WAS REPLYING TO QUESTIONS RAISED BY THE HON. MISS KO SIU-WAH.
DR. THONG ADDED THAT THE NEW LEGISLATION SHOULD HOPEFULLY BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL EARLY NEXT YEAR.
HE SAID AT PRESENT, THERE WAS NO LEGISLATION GOVERNING THE CONTROL OF PRIVATELY OPERATED LABORATORIES, NOR wAS THcRE ANY LEGISLATION LAYING DOWN THE QUALIFICATIONS FOR STAFF EMPLOYED IN THEM.
/'2
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977 - 12 -
WELFARE SERVICES FOR TEMPORARY HOUSING AREAS A SPECIAL CASE
******
THE GOVERNMENT IS AWARE THAT THERE MAY BE A SPECIAL CASE FOR PROVIDING SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES FOR TEMPORARY HOUSING AREAS, PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS LICENSED AREAS, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, THE HON. THOMAS LEE, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON. HILTON CHEONG-LEEN.
+A WORKING PARTY HAS THEREFORE BEEN SET UP, COMPRISING REPRESENTATIVES OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES, FOR THE PURPOSE OF IDENTIFYING AREAS WITH SPECIAL NEED, CONSTANTLY REVIEWING THE NEED FOR SERVICES, AND RECOMMENDING PROJECTS TO BE INTRODUCED,* MR. LEE SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT AS A RESULT THERE WERE AT PRESENT 14 COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS RUN BY SIX VOLUNTARY AGENCIES IN NINE SUCH AREAS, INCLUDING KOWLOON BAY, THE LARGEST WITH A POPULATION OF ABOUT 10,000.
WITH THE EXCEPTION OF ONE AGENCY, HE SAID, ALL PROJECTS WERE FINANCED BY THE GOVERNMENT THROUGH SUBVENTION.
HE DISCLOSED THAT HIS DEPARTMENT WAS IN CONTACT WITH THE PUBLIC WORKS AND FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENTS TO SEE IF ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE IN THESE AREAS WOULD BE SUITABLE FOR RUNNING NURSERIES.
IN THE MEANTIME, HE SAID, THE VOLUNTARY AGENCIES WERE ENCOURAGING THE RESIDENTS, LIKE OTHERS, TO USE WHEREVER POSSIBLE FACILITIES AVAILABLE IN THE COMMUNITY, AND ASSISTING THEM TO SET UP SELF-HELP PROGRAMMES.
ONE OF THE LARGER AND NEWER TEMPORARY HOUSING AREAS WHICH HAD YET TO BE PROVIDED WITH COMMUNITY SERVICES WAS HA KWAI CHUNG WITH A POPULATION OF ABOUT 3,530, MR. LEE SAID.
+THE WORKING PARTY IS IN THE PROCESS OF INTERESTING A VOLUNTARY AGENCY TO ESTABLISH SOME WELFARE SERVICE PROJECT THERE WHICH WOULD PROVIDE WHAT IS MOST NEEDED BY THE RESIDENTS IN THE AREA,* HE NOTED.
------0-------
APPLICATIONS FOR HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME MAY START NEXT YEAR
* * *
THE GOVERNMENT IS EXPECTED TO INVITE APPLICATIONS FOR FLATS BUILT UNDER PHASE I OF THE HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME IN JANUARY NEXT YEAR, THE SECRETARY FOR HOUSING, THE HON. ALAN SCOTT SAID TODAY.
REPLYING TO QUESTIONS RAISED BY THE HON. LYDIA DUNN AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR. SCOTT SAID THAT THAT WAS ABOUT ONE YEAR BEFORE THE FIRST FLATS WERE EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED BY THE HOUSING AUTHORITY.
MR. SCOTT ADDED IT WAS EXPECTED THAT THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AVAILABLE MORTGAGE FACILITIES 'WOULD BE READY IN OCTOBER THIS YEAR.
_____________________________- - - - ------ /13.....................
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
13
MOTOR-CYCLES NOT ALLOWED TO PRODUCE EXCESSIVE NOISE ******
THERE HAVE BEEN SIX PROSECUTIONS OF MOTOR-CYCLISTS SO FAR THIS YEAR FOR PRODUCING EXCESSIVE NOISE, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON. JOHN HOBLEY, SAID IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON. WONG LAM TODAY.
HE ADDED THAT THE LAW RELATING TO NOISE CAUSED BY DEFECTIVE MOTOR-CYCLES WAS ALSO ENFORCED BY EXAMINATION OF THEM BY MOTOR VEHICLE INSPECTORS, FOLLOWED BY A REQUIREMENT THAT THEY BE REPAIRED WHEN DEFECTS WERE DISCOVERED.
DURING 1975, 1,446 MOTOR-CYCLES WERE SO EXAMINED IN RESPECT OF VARIOUS SUSPECTED DEFECTS, HE SAID, WHILE THE NUMBER OF EXAMINATIONS IN 1976 WAS 1,023.
+MANY OF THE MOTOR-CYCLES WHICH HAVE BEEN EXAMINED WERE FOUND TO HAVE DEFECTIVE SILENCERS,* HE NOTED.
------0-------
POLLUTION CONTROL AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT
******
THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT INTEND TO PRODUCE A GREEN PAPER ON POLLUTION CONTROL AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT AT PRESENT, BUT DOES NOT RULE OUT THE POSSIBILITY THAT IT MAY BE DESIRABLE TO DO SO IN THE FUTURE.
SPEAKING IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON. HILTON CHEONG-LEEN IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY, THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, THE HON. DEREK JONES SAID THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (EPCOM) HAD MADE A NUMBER OF STUDIES OF THE NEED FOR POLLUTION CONTROL AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION IN HONG KONG.
ALSO, HE SAID, CONSULTANTS WERE ENGAGED IN DECEMBER 1974 TO ADVISE ON THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROLS, INCLUDING LEGISLATION- AND THEIR FINAL REPORT WAS TO BE EXPECTED NEXT MONTH.
HE ADDED THAT A HIGHLY QUALIFIED ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ADVISER WOULD ARRIVE NEXT MONTH TO SET UP AN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION UNIT RECOMMENDED BY THE CONSULTANTS, WHICH WOULD ADVISE HIM AND THE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS CONCERNED ON ALL ASPECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION.
+ALTHOUGH A FAIR AMOUNT OF PREPARATORY WORK HAS BEEN DONE, THE MEASURES NECESSARY TO COMBAT POLLUTION AND IMPROVE THE ENVIRONMENT ARE ONLY IN A FORMATIVE STAGE.
+WHEN THE CONSULTANTS’ RECOMMENDATIONS HAVE BEEN STUDIED AND PROPOSALS FORMULATED, THERE ..ILL THEN BE EXTENSIVE CONSULTATIONS WITH INTERESTED PARTIES.
+ THEREAFTER, THE GOVERNMS’T "ILL CONSIDER WHETHER IT ,.GULD BE HELPFUL TO ISSUE a GREEN P- ER BEFORE LET-ILED LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS ARE PUT TO THIS COUNCIL,* . R. JONES SAID.
/14 .....
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
14
KINDERGARTEN POPULATION IS 161,000
*******
A KINDERGARTEN POPULATION OF 161,000 WAS RECORDED AT THE BEGINNING OF THE CURRENT ACADEMIC YEAR WHICH STARTED ON SEPTEMBER 1, 1976, THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, THE HON. KENNETH TOPLEY, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
OUT OF THIS KINDERGARTEN POPULATION, 139,000 WERE CHILDREN OF FOUR TO SIX, HE SAID IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY REV. THE HON. JOYCE BENNETT ON THE NUMBER OF CHILDREN OF FOUR TO SIX ATTENDING PRE-SCHOOL KINDERGARTEN, PLAYGROUPS AND NURSERY CLASSES IN THE CURRENT ACADEMIC YEAR.
THE NUMBER OF CHILDREN OF TWO TO SIX ATTENDING PLAYGROUPS AND NURSERIES WAS 12,000 AT THE BEGINNING OF THIS MONTH, MR. TOPLEY SAID.
REFERRING TO ANOTHER QUESTION BY REV. BENNETT ON THE CLOSURE OF KINDERGARTENS, MR. TOPLEY SAID, 53 OF THEM WERE CLOSED IN 1975 AND 38 IN 1976. DURING THE FIRST QUARTER OF THIS YEAR, 13 KINDERGARTENS WERE CLOSED.
THE NUMBER OF PLAYGROUPS AND NURSERIES CLOSED IN 1975 AND 1976 IS NOT KNOWN BECAUSE THE CHILD CARE CENTRES ORDINANCE WAS NOT IMPLEMENTED UNTIL JUNE 1, 1976 AND OPERATORS OF SUCH GROUPS WERE GIVEN A YEAR TO REGISTER, MR. TOPLEY SAID.
HE ALSO NOTED THAT NO PLAYGROUPS KNOWN TO THE SOCI AL WELFARE DEPARTMENT WERE EXPECTED TO CLOSE THIS SUMMER BUT 38 NURSERIES
KNOWN TO DEPARTMENT WOULD REQUIRE
TO CLOSE.
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GOVERNMENT OWNS 10.IM SQ FT
* *
RES.IDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION * *
THE GOVERNMENT CURRENTLY OWNED ABOUT 10.1 MILLION SQ. FT.
OF RESIDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION AND EXPECTED TO OWN ANOTHER 1,955,000 SQ. FT. WITHIN THE NEXT THREE YEARS, THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, THE HON. JOSEPH HAMMOND, SAID TODAY IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
REPLYING TO QUESTIONS BY THE HON. LI FOOK-WO MR. HAMMOND SAID, THESE FIGURES INCLUDED RESIDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION FOR THE DISCIPLINED SERVICES, HOSPITAL STAFF AND ALL OTHERS OBLIGED BY THE NATURE OF THEIR WORK TO OCCUPY GOVERNMENT QUARTERS.
REFERRING TO LEASED RESIDENTIAL PREMISES, HE SAID THAT THE GOVERNMENT AT PRESENT RENTED AN AREA OF 1.5 MILLION SQ. FT. AND ESTIMATED TO RENT ANOTHER 1,335,000 SQ. FT. WITHIN THE NEXT THREE YEARS.
AT THE SAME TIME, HE POINTED OUT THAT THE GOVERNMENT CURRENTLY OWNED ABOUT 2.6 MILLION SQ. FT. OF OFFICE ACCOMMODATION AND LEASED 1.15 MILLION SQ. FT.
MR. HAMMOND EXPLAINED THAT WHILE NO NEW MAJOR GOVERNMENT OWNED OFFICE BUILDINGS WERE LIKELY TO BE COMPLETED DURING THE NEXT THREE YEARS, THE ESTIMATED OFFICE ACCOMMODATION TO BE LEASED DURING THE PERIOD TOTALLED 463,300 SQ. FT.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
LAND TRANSACTION REGISTRATIONS IN N.T. NOW MUCH FASTER
*****
THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION THIS YEAR HAS BEEN ABLE TO ALMOST HALVE THE TIME REQUIRED FOR THE REGISTRATION OF LAND TRANSACTIONS.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, THE HON. DAVID AKERS-JONES, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY THAT THE RECRUITMENT OF NEW STAFF APPROVED IN FEBRUARY THIS YEAR HAD REDUCED LAST YEAR’S AVERAGE REGISTRATION WAITING PERIOD OF 10 WEEKS TO SIX WEEKS.
HE SAID, IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON. PETER C. WONG, THAT HE WAS NOW HAVING TALKS WITH THE REGISTRAR GENERAL TO SEE IF OTHER IMPROVEMENTS COULD BE INTRODUCED TO FURTHER REDUCE THE WAITING PERIOD.
MR. AKERS-JONES SAID HE WOULD ALSO HOLD DISCUSSIONS WITH THE LAW SOCIETY +T0 SEE IF THERE IS ANYTHING MORE THAN CAN REASONABLY BE DONE.+
HE DESCRIBED THE FACILITIES FOR REGISTRATION OF DOCUMENTS IN THE VARIOUS REGISTRIES OF THE DISTRICT OFFICES OF THE NEW TERRITORIES AS ADEQUATE, AND THE SYSTEM EMPLOYED BY THE REGISTRIES TO BE GENERALLY ADEQUATE.
+1 SHOULD PERHAPS EXPLAIN THAT THE SYSTEM IS NOT QUITE THE SAME AS THAT EMPLOYED IN THE VICTORIA LAND OFFICE BECAUSE CIRCUMSTANCES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES ARE MANIFESTLY DIFFERENT,* HE SAID.
IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, LAND REGISTRY STAFF ARE CONCERNED WITH THE ASSESSMENT AND COLLECTION OF STAMP DUTY AND THEY HELP PREPARE DOCUMENTS FOR VILLAGERS. THEY ALSO POINT OUT ERRORS AND OMISSIONS IN DOCUMENTS SUBMITTED FOR REGISTRATION.
+IN ADDITION, MULTI-STOREY DEVELOPMENT HAS INCREASED THE NUMBER AND COMPLEXITY OF TRANSACTIONS, AND THIS HAS GIVEN RISE TO DELAYS,* HE SAID.
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/16......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
16
PHARMACY AND POISONS (AMENDMENT) BILL * * * * *
A BILL TO GREATLY FACILITATE THE GOVERNMENT’S CONTROL OF PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS MANUFACTURED LOCALLY OR IMPORTED RECEIVED ITS SECOND READING AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
MOVING THE PHARMACY AND POISONS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, DR. THE HON. K.L. THONG SAID THE PRESENT DEFINITION OF ’PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS’ AND ’MEDICINE’ WAS OUT OF DATE AND ITS MEANING DID NOT ADEQUATELY COVER MANY ITEMS SUCH AS VACCINES, DIAGNOSTICS AND HORMONE PREPARATIONS.
HE SAID FURTHERMORE, IT LEFT ROOM FOR ARGUMENT AS TO WHETHER CERTAIN SUBSTANCES WERE SUBJECT TO REGISTRATION. +THE PROPOSED DEFINITION WHICH IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION DEFINITION SHOULD BE MORE MEANINGFUL IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL SENSE,* HE SAID.
DR. THONG SAID THIS WOULD BROADEN THE MEANING OF ’PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS’ AND ’MEDICINE’ TO COVER A WIDER RANGE OF SUBSTANCES AND WOULD BRING HONG KONG UP TO DATE WITH THE INTERNATIONAL DEFINITION IN THIS FIELD.
+1 SHOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO ALLAY DOUBTS FROM CERTAIN QUARTERS THAT THIS DEFINITION MAY BE MISINTERPRETED TO INCLUDE FOOD STUFFS SUCH AS RICE AND COFFEE AND SHOULD LIKE TO STATE CATEGORICALLY THAT IT IS NEITHER IN THE SPIRIT NOR IN THE INTENTION OF THE LAW THAT THIS SHOULD HAPPEN,* HE ADDED.
THE DIRECTOR PROPOSED TO INTRODUCE THIS CLAUSE WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT IF APPROVED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
DR. THONG SAID THE SECOND MAIN PURPOSE OF THE BILL WAS TO MAKE PROVISION FOR THE ISSUE OF PRACTISING CERTIFICATES TO REGISTERED PHARMACISTS IN FUTURE BY THE PHARMACY AND POISONS BOARD.
AT PRESENT REGISTERED PHARMACISTS ARE REQUIRED BY SECTION 25 OF THE STAMP ORDINANCE TO OBTAIN THESE CERTIFICATES FROM THE COLLECTOR OF STAMP REVENUE.
DR. THONG SAID THE OBJECT OF THIS CHANGE WAS TO ENABLE MORE ACCURATE STATISTICS TO BE OBTAINED ON THE NUMBER OF REGISTERED PHARMACISTS ACTUALLY PRACTISING PHARMACY IN HONG KONG BY THE PHARMACY AND POISONS BOARD. +THE BILL PROVIDES THIS CHANGE TO TAKE EFFECT FROM JANUARY 1, 1978,+ HE ADDED.
THE BILL ALSO BROADENED THE POWER OF THE PHARMACY AND POISONS BOARD TO ORDER THE REMOVAL FROM THE REGISTER OF NAMES OF REGISTERED PHARMACISTS TO COVER THE CASE OF A REGISTERED PHARMACIST WHO PRACTISED PHARMACY IN HONG KONG FOR A PERIOD EXCEEDING SIX MONTHS WITHOUT HAVING OBTAINED AN ANNUAL PRACTISING CERTIFICATE OR WHO WAS NO LONGER PRACTISING PHARMACY LOCALLY, DR. THONG SAID.
HE ADDED THAT THE BILL ALSO CONTAINED SUPPORTING PROVISIONS UNDER WHICH A PHARMACIST WHO WAS REQUIRED TO OBTAIN A PRACTISING CERTIFICATE SHOULD NOT BE ENTITLED TO RECOVER ANY PROFESSIONAL FEES, COSTS OF REMUNERATION ON ANY CAUSE OF ACTION UNLESS HE WAS, AT THE RELEVANT TIME, THE HOLDER OF A VALID PRACTISING CERTIFICATE.
THE DEBATE ON THE BILL HAS BEEN ADJOURNED.
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/17......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
17
ADMINISTRATIVE INSTRUCTIONS TO BE ISSUED WITH ANTI-POLLUTION LAW
******
THE GOVERNMENT HAS AGREED TO ISSUE APPROPRIATE ADMINISTRATIVE INSTRUCTIONS TO ENSURE THAT THE POWERS CONFERRED BY THE OIL POLLUTION (LAND USE AND REQUISITION) BILL 1977 ARE EXERCISED SENSIBLY AND CAUTIOUSLY AND THAT THE RIGHTS AND INTERESTS OF AFFECTED PERSONS ARE CAREFULLY GUARDED, THE HON. PETER C. WONG SAID TODAY.
THE BILL, WHICH AIMS TO PREVENT AND REMEDY POLLUTION OR DAMAGE CAUSED BY OIL SPILLAGE TO HONG KONG WATERS AND FORESHORES. HAS PASSED ITS THIRD READING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
IT SOUGHT, MR. WONG POINTED OUT, TO PROVIDE VERY EXTENSIVE POWERS TO REQUISITION PRIVATE PROPERTY, TO ENTER LAND AND USE PRIVATE LAND.
DURING THE COMMITTEE STAGE, AN AMENDMENT WAS MADE TO PROVIDE THAT THESE POWERS WOULD NOT BE EXERCISED IN RELATION TO ANY PART OF A RESIDENTIAL BUILDING, UNLESS DIRECTIONS ARE GIVEN IN WRITING.
AS THE ORDINARY CITIZEN MIGHT NOT BE AWARE OF THE PROVISION FOR COMPENSATION PAYMENT AND THE TIME LIMIT OF THREE MONTHS TO APPLY FOR IT, THE GOVERNMENT HAS AGREED THAT ANY PERSON WHO MIGHT BE ENTITLED TO IT SHOULD BE INFORMED IN WRITING OF HIS RIGHTS, MR. WONG SAID.
IT HAS ALSO BEEN AGREED BY THE GOVERNMENT, HE ADDED, THAT ANY COMPETENT AUTHORITY UNDER THE BILL APART FROM THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS AND THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, APPOINTED TO DEAL WITH OIL SPILLAGES, WOULD BE AT LEAST OF DEPUTY DIRECTOR RANK.
HE REGRETTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD BEEN UNABLE TO AGREE THAT IN DEFAULT OF AGREEMENT, COMPENSATION SHOULD BE DETERMINED BY A BOARD OR TRIBUNAL. INSTEAD IT WAS TO BE BY CIVIL PROCEEDINGS INITIATED BY THE CLAIMANT.
+AS CIVIL PROCEEDINGS ARE USUALLY EXPENSIVE AND TIME-CONSUMING, A CLAIMANT MIGHT BE FORCED TO ACCEPT A LESS FAVOURABLE SETTLEMENT. THE RULES AND PROCEDURE OF A BOARD OR TRIBUNAL ARE LESS FORMAL AND THE CLAIMANT MAY NOT HAVE TO ENGAGE LEGAL REPRESENTATION,* HE SAID.
MR. WONG NOTED THAT SUBJECT TO THESE REMARKS, HE WAS
SATISFIED THAT THE POWERS SOUGHT WERE NECESSARY FOR THE AUTHORITIES TO COPE WITH A MAJOR OIL SPILLAGE AND THAT THE PROVISIONS TO SAFEGUARD THE RIGHTS OF PERSONS WHO MIGHT EE AFFECTED WERE ADEQUATE.
- 0 -
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
18
TAI HANG ROAD CLEAN UP EXTENDED
* * * H * *
STAFF OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT TOOK AWAY ABOUT 12 TONS OF REFUSE ON THE FIRST TWO DAYS OF A MAJOR OPERATION TO CLEAN UP A SQUATTER AREA WHICH COVERS THE HILLSIDES ABOVE TAI HANG ROAD.
THE OPERATION BEGAN ON MONDAY AND WAS ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED TO LAST FIVE DAYS. HOWEVER, THE URBAN SERVICES OFFICER FOR WAN CHAI, MR. ROBERT IP PING-KIN, HAS SAID THE WORK WILL HAVE TO CONTINUE INTO NEXT WEEK BECAUSE OF THE EXTENSIVE BUILD-UP OF LITTER.
THE MAIN PROBLEM ARISES FROM THE PRESENCE OF ABOUT 1,000 PIGS AMONG THE 300 HUTS OF THE SQUATTER AREA, LOCATED OPPOSITE WESLEY VILLAGE.
WASTE FROM THE 50 PIG STIES AND MANY OF THE HUTS GOES DIRECTLY INTO NULLAHS, WHICH HAVE DRIED UP BECAUSE OF THE RECENT LOW RAINFALL, AND THE SMELL HAS RESULTED IN COMPLAINTS FROM RESIDENTS OF NEARBY HIGH-RISE RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS.
COMMENTING ON THE PROBLEM, MR. IP SAID: +COUPLED WITH THE WARM WEATHER, THE ACCUMULATION OF EXCRETA AND OTHER REFUSE HAS PROVIDED A BREEDING GROUND FOR FLIES AND OTHER VERMIN.+
MORE THAN 50 WORKERS OF THE U.S.D. WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICE HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN THE OPERATION, IN WHICH ABOUT 7,000 GALLONS OF WATER HAS BEEN USED TO CLEAN UP SOME OF THE NULLAHS.
WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE TAI HANG AND SO KON POO AREA COMMITTEE, A SIMILAR OPERATION WAS CARRIED OUT LAST YEAR.
THIS RESULTED IN THE PROVISION OF REFUSE BINS AND TEMPORARY LATRINES WITH A DAILY COLLECTION SERVICE, AND A U.S.D. LABOURER WAS STATIONED IN THE AREA TO CLEAN THE NULLAHS.
IN ADDITION TO FOUR REFUSE COLLECTION VEHICLES AND STREET WASHERS, A BROADCASTING VAN IS AT THE SCENE TO REMIND THE 730 VILLAGERS OF THE NEED TO KEEP THEIR ENVIRONMENT FREE OF SANITARY NU ISANCES.
THE DECISION TO EXTEND THE OPERATION BY TWO TO THREE DAYS WAS MADE AFTER THE STAFF FOUND THE HILLSIDES LITTERED WITH TIMBER AND METAL TINS USED TO CARRY PIG WASH TO THE STIES.
MR. IP SAID THE TINS POSE AN ADDITIONAL PROBLEM, AS THEY WILL BECOME BREEDING PLACES FOR MOSQUITOES THE NEXT TIME IT RAINS.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977
19
OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE LEI MUK SHUE COMMUNITY HALL ******
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT WILL OFFICIALLY OPEN ITS SECOND COMMUNITY HALL IN THE LEI MUK SHUE ESTATE ON FRIDAY (JUNE 17).
MISS KO SIU-WAH, UNOFFICIAL MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, WILL UNVEIL THE COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE AT AN OPENING CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT 4 P.M.
THE LEI MUK SHUE COMMUNITY HALL IS ONE OF THE FIVE COMMUNITY HALLS COMPLETED RECENTLY UNDER A PROJECT AIMED AT PROMOTING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.
THE PURPOSE OF SETTING UP COMMUNITY HALLS IS TO PROVIDE A PLACE IN AN ESTATE WHERE RESIDENTS CAN GATHER AND PARTICIPATE IN VARIOUS CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES.
THE ONE IN LEK YUEN ESTATE WAS OFFICIALLY OPENED IN APRIL AND THE OTHER THREE IN THE LAI KING, HING WAH AND KWAI SHING ESTATES ARE EXPECTED TO BE OPENED SOON.
EACH OF THE COMMUNITY HALLS CONSISTS OF A MULTI-PURPOSE HALL WITH .FACILITIES SUCH AS A STAGE, CHANGING ROOMS AND A CONFERENCE ROOM TOTALLING ABOUT 4,000 TO 5,000 SQ. FT. IN AREA.
YOUTH GROUPS, RELIGIOUS BODIES AND OTHER CIVIC ORGANISATIONS CAN MAKE USE OF THE FACILITIES IN THEIR ESTATES, FREE OF CHARGE. TO HOLD COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES SUCH AS SOCIAL GATHERINGS, THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES, INTEREST GROUPS AND EXHIBITIONS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT THE LEI MUK SHUE COMMUNITY HALL IN KWAI CHUNG AT 4 P.M. ON FRIDAY (JUNE 17).
/20......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 1977 ’
PUBLIC LIGHT BUS RESTRICTIONS IN SHAU KEI WAN AND CHAI WAN ROADS ******
PUBLIC LIGHT BUS RESTRICTION BETWEEN 7 A.M. AND MID-NIGHT WILL BE IMPOSED ON THE SECTION OF CHAI WAN ROAD BETWEEN A KUNG NGAM ROAD AND SHAU KEI WAN ROAD ON FRIDAY (JUNE 17) WITH EFFECT FROM 10 A.M.
THE ROUTES WITHIN THE RESTRICTION ARE
* FOR THE EASTBOUND CARRIAGEWAY, FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH SHAU KEI WAN ROAD TO ITS JUNCTION WITH A KUNG NGAM ROAD-
* FOR THE WESTBOUND CARRIAGEWAY, FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH SHAU KEI WAN ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 360 FEET TO THE EAST OF THIS JUNCTION.
AT THE SAME TIME, THE EXISTING PUBLIC LIGHT BUS RESTRICTION (7 A.M. TO MID-NIGHT) ON THE SECTION OF SHAU KEI WAN ROAD BETWEEN NAM ON LANE AND ALDRICH STREET WILL BE EXTENDED. FOR BOTH THE EASTBOUND AND THE WESTBOUND CARRIAGEWAYS, THE EXTENDED PUBLIC LIGHT BUS RESTRICTION WILL BE FROM HOUSE NO. 304 TO A POINT ABOUT 160 FEET TO THE EAST OF CHURCH STREET.
APPROPRIATE SIGNS WILL BE ERECTED TO INDICATE THE RESTRICTIONS.
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BILLS PASSED * * *
SEVEN BILLS PASSED THEIR COMMITTEE STAGE AND THIRD READING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THIS AFTER-NOON.
THEY WERE THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE DRUG ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRES (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE POLICE FORCE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE PUBLIC HEALTH (ANIMALS AND BIRDS) (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE OIL POLLUTION (LAND USE AND REQUISITION) BILL 1977, THE ROAD_TRAFFIC (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1977, AND THE PREVENTIVE SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977.
TEN BILLS WERE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READING.
IN ADDITION TO THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO. 4) BILL 1977, THERE WERE THE IMMIGRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE SUMMARY OFFENCES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1977, THE ADOPTION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE SUMMARY OFFENCES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) BILL 1977, THE DENTISTS REGISTRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE PHARMACY AND POISONS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, THE STAMP (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1977, THE ASIATIC EMIGRATION (REPEAL) BILL 1977, AND THE TRADE MARKS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977.
THE CONSUMER COUNCIL BILL 1977 AND THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) BILL, ON WHICH DEBATE RESUMED TODAY, PASSED THEIR SECOND READING.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
SHELTERS FOR PUBLIC DURING TROPICAL STORM ..... 1
OUTLET FOR YOUTH ENTHUSIASM ................... 2
$12 MILLION SWIMMING POOL PLANNED FOR FANLING . 3
GROWING AWARENESS FOR STUDENT CREATIVITY ...... 4
HOME AFFAIRS DIRECTOR TO VISIT PO LEUNG KUK SCHOOL .... 5
LAW ON CREW MATTERS ........................... 6
HOLIDAY OPENING HOURS OF MARINE DEPARTMENT .... 6
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5'233191
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 1977
1
122 TYPHOON SHELTERS ORGANISED BY HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT M M M * *
WITH THE APPROACH OF TYPHOON SEASON, THE HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT HAS ARRANGED 122 TYPHOON SHELTERS TO PROVIDE PEOPLE WITH SUITABLE AND SAFE ACCOMMODATION DURING TROPICAL STORMS.
THE SHELTERS WILL EE OPENED TO THE PUBLIC WHEN TYPHOON SIGNAL NO. 8 IS HOISTED AND HAVE AN OVERALL CAPACITY OF ABOUT 20,000. THESE SHELTERS ARE CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AT EACH DISTRICT AND CITIZENS SHOULD CONTACT THEIR RESPECTIVE CITY DISTRICT OFFICES WHEN SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS ARE NEEDED.
THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE TYPHOON SHELTERS IS AS FOLLOW:-
DISTRICT NO. OF SHELTERS CAPACITY TEL. NOS.
EASTERN 15 2,260 MAIN OFFICE: 5-706960
5-703455
SHAU KI WAN SUB-OFFICE:
5-690121
CHAI WAN SUB-OFFICE:
5-573265-7
WAN CHAI 14 2,730 5-752477, 5-742281
CENTRAL AND 12 1,410 MAIN OFF ICE: 5-480127
WESTERN
C.G.O. SUE-OFFICE: 5-220031
SOUTHERN 17 4,545 5-540271
KWUN TONG 24 ' 1,930 MAIN OFFICE: 3-423431
NGAU TAU KOK SUB-OFFICE: 3-420843
SAU MAU PING SUB-OFFICE: 3-462247
YAU TONG SUB-OFFICE: 3-351135
/WONG TAI SIN ..
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 1977
2
WONG TAI SIN 11
KOWLOON CITY 11
MONG KOK 6
SHAM SHU I PO 4
YAU MA TEI 8
910 3-229701, 3-222261-4
1,466 3-010171-5
1,480 MAIN OFFICE: 3-809731
TAI KOK TSUI SUB-OFFICE:
3-933433
1,340 MAIN OFFICE: 3-704251-5
CHEUNG SHA WAN SUB-OFFICE: 3-704033, 3-704045
1,750 3-686161
THE ENQUIRY COUNTER (TEL. NO.: 5-456381) AT THE HEADQUARTERS OF THE DEPARTMENT WILL BE MANNED ROUND-THE-CLOCK TO ANSWER ENQUIRIES ABOUT TYPHOON AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT SITUATIONS WHEN TYPHOON SIGNAL NO. 1 IS HOISTED.
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OUTLET VITAL FOR YOUTH ENTHUSIASM * * *
IT IS VITAL THAT SOME OUTLET EE PROVIDED FOR THE ENERGY, ENTERPRISE AND ENTHUSIASM OF OUR YOUNG PEOPLE IF THEY ARE TO ENJOY A PROPERLY BALANCED LIFE AND TO DEVELOP INTO THE SORT OF PEOPLE WHO WILL MAKE A POSITIVE CONTRIBUTION TO THE WELFARE OF THEIR FELLOW CITIZENS, SIR DENYS ROBERTS SAID TODAY.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF YOUTH GROUPS’ NEW 01 MAN YOUTH CENTRE, NOTED THAT ALTHOUGH THE STANDARDS OF ACCOMMODATION IN 01 MAN WERE REASONABLE, THERE WOULD BE A GREAT DENSITY OF POPULATION IN THE AREA AND INEVITABLY A SHORTAGE OF PUBLIC OPEN SPACE FOR ACTIVE OR PASSIVE RECREATION OR SPORT.
HE PAID TRIBUTE TO THE FEDERATION WHICH, AS ONE OF ITS MOST IMPORTANT ACTIVITIES, RUNS 23 YOUTH CENTRES, MAINLY IN THE MOST HEAVILY POPULATED URBAN AREAS WHERE THE NEED FOR THEM IS GREATEST.
THE NEW YOUTH CENTRE OCCUPIES SOME 4,800 SQ. FT. AT THE ESTATE AND IS PROVIDED WITH A READING CORNER AND SEPARATE ROOMS FOR GROUP ACTIVITIES, HOLDING CONFERENCES, LEARNING DOMESTIC SCIENCE AND PRACTISING PHOTOGRAPHY.
IT IS ALSO EQUIPPED WITH SPORTS AND CAMPING GEAR FOR LENDING TO YOUNG PEOPLE.
THE LOTTERIES FUND CONTRIBUTED 0120,000 TOWARDS ITS CAPITAL EXPENDITURE AND PART OF ITS RECURRENT EXPENSES WILL BE MET BY GOVERNMENT SUBVENTION.
/J
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 1977
$12 MILLION SWIMMING POOL COMPLEX FOR FANLING ******
THE GOVERNMENT IS PLANNING TO OPEN A $12 MILLION PUBLIC SWIMMING POOL COMPLEX IN FANLING IN TIME FOR NEXT YEAR’S SUMMER SWIMMING SEASON.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES, SAID TODAY WORK HAD ALREADY STARTED ON THE COMPLEX WHICH WOULD SERVE THE NORTHERN NEW TERRITORIES.
IT WILL BE THE SECOND PUBLIC SWIMMING POOL COMPLEX BUILT BY THE GOVERNMENT IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, THE FIRST BEING IN TSUEN WAN.
MR. AKERS-JONES SPOKE OF THE PROJECT WHILE ADDRESSING A PRIZE-PRESENTATION CEREMONY OF AN INTER-SCHOOL GYMNASTIC AND TRAMPOLINE COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE NEW TERRITORIES SCHOOLS’ SPORTS ASSOCIATION AT THE FANLING POLICE CADET SCHOOL.
HE SAID THE SWIMMING POOL COMPLEX WOULD HAVE A MAIN POOL, A SECONDARY POOL, A TEACHING POOL, A PADDLING POOL, A SPECTATORS’ STAND AND CHANGING ROOMS.
THE MAIN POOL, HE SAID, WOULD BE HEATED IN WINTER TO PROVIDE A YEAR-ROUND FACILITY.
+1 HOPE IT WILL OPEN IN TIME FOR NEXT YEAR’S SUMMER SWIMMING SEASON, SO THAT NEXT SUMMER, I WILL BE ABLE TO SEE MANY OF THE YOUNG PEOPLE HERE TAKING PART IN A DIFFERENT TYPE OF OUTDOOR COMPETITION AT THE FANLING SWIMMING POOL,+ HE SAID.
MR. AKERS-JONES SAID THE SWIMMING POOL PROJECT REFLECTS THE EMPHASIS WHICH MUST BE PLACED ON PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES AND OUTLETS FOR SPORT AND RECREATION IN THE DRAMATICALLY CHANGING NEW TERRITORIES.
HE PRAISED THE NEW TERRITORIES SCHOOLS’ SPORTS ASSOCIATION AND THE POLICE CADET SCHOOL FOR ORGANISING THE COMPETITION.
+THIS IS JUST ONE OF THE GROWING NUMBER OF ACTIVITIES WHICH ARE BEING ARRANGED BY THE GOVERNMENT AND VOLUNTARY AND COMMUNITY GROUP AGENCIES THROUGHOUT THE NEW TERR I TOR IES,+ HE SAID.
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A
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 1977
4
IMPORTANCE OF CREATIVITY STRESSED * # H * *
THERE IS A GROWING AWARENESS AMONG SCHOOLS THAT CREATIVITY IS JUST AS IMPORTANT IN THE CURRICULUM AS ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, AND THAT ART AND DESIGN IN ALL ITS MANY FACETS IS A VITAL AND FUNDAMENTAL FORM OF HUMAN EXPRESSION.
SPEAKING AT THpOPEN ING OF THE GRADUATION EXHIBITION BY STUDENTS OF THE THIRD YEAR COURSE IN ART AND DESIGN OF THE GRANTHAM COLLEGE OF EDUCATION THIS AFTERNOON, THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (FURTHER), MR. JOHN WINFIELD EXPRESSED THE HOPE THAT THE EXHIBITION AT THE COLLEGE WOULD HELP TO STRENGTHEN THIS GROWING AWARENESS.
MR. WINFIELD SAID THE THREE-DAY EXHIBITION HAD BECOME ESTABLISHED AS A MAJOR ANNUAL EVENT IN THE COLLEGE CALENDAR.
■•■EQUALLY IMPORTANT, I THINK, IS THE FACT THAT THE EXHIBITION SERVES AS A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION TO SCHOOLS.
+AS WE ALL KNOW, THERE HAS BEEN BY TRADITION A VERY HEAVY EMPHASIS ON ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN OUR SCHOOLS, VERY OFTEN, AT THE EXPENSE OF THE CREATIVE FUNCTIONS OF HUMAN NATURE (THOUGH OF COURSE I AM GLAD TO SAY THAT THERE HAS ALWAYS BEEN SOME NOTABLE EXCEPTIONS),* HE SAID.
THE GRANTHAM COLLEGE OF EDUCATION HAS A WELL-DESERVED REPUTATION FOR THE HIGH STANDARD OF ITS ART AND DESIGN COURSES.
+THIS REPUTATION HAS BEEN ACHIEVED AS THE RESULT OF MANY YEARS OF ENDEAVOUR AND CREATIVE EXPERIMENTATION ON THE PART OF SUCCESSIVE GROUPS OF LECTURERS AND STUDENTS,* THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR SAID.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 1977
5
DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS
TO VISIT PO LEUNG KUK NO. 1 PRIMARY SCHOOL
*****
THE DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS, MR. AUGUSTINE KAM CHUI WILL VISIT PO LEUNG KUK NO. 1 PRIMARY SCHOOL TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AFTERNOON TO INSPECT THE SCHOOL FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES.
SITUATED AT BLOCK 13, CHA IWAN ESTATE, THE SCHOOL WAS FIRST ESTABLISHED IN SEPTEMBER 1965 AND WAS THE KUK’S FIRST INSTITUTION IN THE FIELD OF PRIMARY EDUCATION.
THE SCHOOL OCCUPIES A SIX-STOREY BUILDING, AND THE FACILITIES INCLUDE 24 CLASSROOMS, A SCHOOL HALL, GENERAL OFFICE SPACE, A TEACHERS’ COMMON ROOM, A LIBRARY, A MUSIC ROOM, A FIRST AID ROOM, AND A CONFERENCE ROOM.
PRESENTLY, THERE ARE 43 CLASSES (INCLUDING FOUR SPECIAL CLASSES) BEING OPERATED WITH A TOTAL ENROLMENT OF 1,511 STUDENTS AND A TEACHING STAFF OF 50.
DURING THE VISIT, MR. CHUI WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY MR. CHENG ENG-KUAN, CHAIRMAN OF PO LEUNG KUK, MR. C.B. CHIU, VICE-CHAIRMAN OF PO LEUNG KUK, MR. DAVID LIM MAN-SAN, MR. CHONG SHU I-KIT AND MR. WOO PO-SHING, DIRECTORS OF PO LEUNG KUK AND MISS CHRISTINE CHOW, CITY DISTRICT OFFICER (EASTERN).
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND A REPRESENTATIVE TO COVER THE VISIT OF THE DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS, MR. AUGUSTINE CHUI TO THE PO LEUNG KUK PRIMARY SCHOOL AT BLOCK 13. CHA IWAN ESTATE, WHICH WILL START AT 3 P.M. TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 1977
6
CREW MATTERS OF HONG KONG REGISTERED BRITISH SHIPS *****
A MARINE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY REMINDED MASTERS, OWNERS, AGENTS AND CHARTERERS OF BRITISH VESSELS REGISTERED IN HONG KONG THAT THEY MUST COMPLY WITH THE LAW RELATING TO MATTERS CONCERNING THEIR CREWS.
THESE MATTERS INCLUDE THE ENGAGEMENT AND DISCHARGE OF SEAMEN, ENGAGEMENT OF SUBSTITUTES, CASES OF SEAMEN BEING LEFT BEHIND, PAYMENT OF WAGES, PRODUCTION OF AGREEMENT AND OFFICIAL LOG BOOKS, PROPERTY OF DECEASED SEAMEN, REPORTING OF BIRTHS AND DEATHS, AND OFFICER MANNING SITUATIONS.
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THESE REQUIREMENTS, LAID DOWN IN THE MERCHANT SHIPPING ACTS 1894 TO 1967, AND THE MERCHANT SHIPPING ORDINANCE CAP 281 OF HONG KONG, ARE APPLICABLE TO BRITISH SHIPS REGISTERED IN HONG KONG NO MATTER WHERE THE VESSELS MAY BE AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME.
HE STRESSED THAT FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE PROVISIONS AS LAID DOWN COULD RESULT IN PROSECUTIONS INCURRING HEAVY PENALTIES AND POSSIBLE DELAYS IN SAILING.
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HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS FOR MARINE DEPARTMENT
******
THE MARINE DEPARTMENT HAS ANNOUNCED THAT THE WAN CHAI AND YAU MA TEI PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREAS AND THE PORT COMMUNICATIONS CENTRE WILL BE OPEN AS USUAL ON TUESDAY (JUNE 21) WHICH IS A GENERAL HOLIDAY.
THE MACAU FERRY WHARF UNIT OFFICES WILL ALSO BE OPEN FROM 7.3'3 A.M. ON TUESDAY TO 1.30 A.M. ON THE FOLLOWING DAY.
ALL OTHER OFFICES OF THE DEPARTMENT WILL BE CLOSED DURING THE HOLIDAY.
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PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
NEW-LOOK TOWN SQUARES FOR TSUEN'WAN ....................... 1
MOST PROPOSALS TO ALTER VALUATION LISTS PROCESSED ........... 2
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION STRESSED NEED FOR GOOD SCHOOL ORDER ....................................................... 3
PRINTING DEPARTMENT’S IMPRESSIVE PRODUCTION RECORD .......... 4
JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE BOARD PROPOSED ........................ 5
SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME BEGINS ON SUNDAY ..................... 6
SECRETARY FOR NEW TERRITORIES TO OFFICIATE AT GRADUATION CEREMONY .................................................... 6
NEW LIST OF CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS AND TRUSTS .............. 7
EXHIBITION OF ENGINEERING AND FURNITURE DESIGNS ........... 7
SPEEDPOST FOR BONA FIDE SAMPLES TO U.S.A. TO RESUME ......... 8
HOLIDAY POSTAL ARRANGEMENTS ................................. 8
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 1977
1
NEW LOOK PLANNED FOR TOWN SQUARES IN TSUEN WAN *****
RESIDENTS OF TSUEN WAN NEW TOWN WILL BE ABLE TO ADVISE THE GOVERNMENT NEXT WEEK ON HOW THEY FEEL THEIR TOWN CAN BE BEAUTIFIED.
THE TSUEN WAN RECREATION AND AMENITIES (ADVISORY) COMMITTEE, WHICH HAS A MAJORITY OF UNOFFICIALS DRAWN FROM THE LOCAL COMMUNITY, IS PLANNING TO GIVE A NEW LOOK TO EACH OF THE FIVE TOWN SQUARES IN TSUEN WAN AS PART OF THE LONG-TERM PLAN TO IMPROVE THE TOWN’S ENVIRONMENT.
A SIX-DAY EXHIBITION STARTING NEXT TUESDAY (JUNE 21) WILL SHOW A NUMBER OF PROPOSED DESIGNS ANt) MODELS FOR THE TOWN SQUARES AND PEOPLE ATTENDING WILL BE INVITED TO COMMENT.
THEIR SUGGESTIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR INCORPORATION INTO FUTURE IMPROVEMENT SCHEMES PLANNED FOR TAI PEI SQUARE, YI PE I SQUARE, SAM PEI SQUARE, HAU TEI SQUARE AND LO TAK COURT.
THE DESIGNS AND MODELS HAVE BEEN PREPARED BY A GROUP OF THIRD-YEAR ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS FROM THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF THEIR DEPARTMENT HEAD, PROF. K.C. LYE.
THE EXHIBITION, ENTITLED +TSUEN WAN — OLD AND NEW+, WILL BE OFFICIALLY OPENED ON MONDAY (JUNE 20) BY THE TSUEN WAN TOWN MANAGER, MR. JAMES HAYES, PROF. LYE, AND THE TSUEN WAN RURAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR. PETER YEUNG.
MR. HAYES SAID TODAY THE EXHIBITION AIMS AT INVOLVING MORE PEOPLE OF TSUEN WAN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THEIR NEW TOWN.
HE SAID THE EXHIBITION WOULD GIVE LOCAL PEOPLE THE OPPORTUNITY OF EXPRESSING THEIR VIEWS ON HOW THEY FEEL THEIR TOWN SQUARES SHOULD LOOK IN FUTURE.
+ I HOPE THEY WILL TAKE A KEEN INTEREST IN THE IMPROVEMENT SCHEME AND THEIR SUGGESTION WOULD BE MOST WELCOME,+ HE SAID. i
MR. HAYES SAID SUGGESTION BOXES WOULD BE PROVIDED TO COLLECT IDEAS DURING THE ENTIRE PERIOD OF THE EXHIBITION.
THE EXHIBITION IS A JOINT VENTURE BY THE TSUEN WAN RECREATION AND AMENITIES (ADVISORY) COMMITTEE, THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE ARCHITECTURE DEPARTMENT OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY.
APART FROM THE DESIGNS AND MODELS, IT WILL DISPLAY PHOTOGRAPHS OF HISTORICAL BUILDINGS AND MEASURED DRAWINGS OF SOME OF THE PLACES IN TSUEN WAN -- SAM TUN UK, WO Yl HOPE VILLAGE, HOI PA OLD VILLAGE AND TIN HAU TEMPLE.
/ALSO ON .....
FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 1977
2
ALSO ON DISPLAY WILL BE BASIC INFORMATION ON THE LOCATION AND ROLE OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE’S PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRES.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FROM NEXT TUESDAY (JUNE 21) TO SUNDAY (JUNE 26) BETWEEN 10 A.M. AND 6 P.M. DAILY AT THE PRINCESS ALEXANDRA COMMUNITY CENTRE AT TAI HO ROAD.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE EXHIBITION WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE AT 2.30 P.M. ON MONDAY (JUNE 20). PRESS TRANSPORT WILL BE PROVIDED. A GOVERNMENT VAN, AM2088, WILL LEAVE FROM BEHIND THE TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICE AT 1.45 P.M. TO TAKE PRESS REPRESENTATIVES TO AND FROM TSUEN WAN.
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PROPOSALS TO ALTER THE 1977-78 VALUATION LISTS
*****
THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT HAS DEALT WITH MOST OF THE PROPOSALS LODGED BY RATEPAYERS IN MARCH FOR THE ALTERATION OF THE 1977-78 VALUATION LISTS.
ABOUT 100 PROPOSALS ARE STILL BEING CONSIDERED AND IT IS EXPECTED THAT DECISIONS ON THESE WILL BE MADE SOON.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THAT EACH PROPOSAL LODGED WAS GIVEN CAREFUL CONSIDERATION BY THE VALUER FOR THE DISTRICT IN WHICH THE CONCERNED PREMISES WERE SITUATED. THE VALUER’S RECOMMENDATION WAS THEN SCRUTINISED AND A DECISION MADE ON IT BY A MORE SENIOR OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT BEFORE A FORMAL NOTICE OF DECISION WAS SENT TO THE RATEPAYER.
REDUCTIONS IN RATEABLE VALUE HAD BEEN ALLOWED IN SOME 1,800 CASES. ’
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT A NUMBER OF THE NOTICES OF DECISION, HAVING BEEN SENT BY RECORDED DELIVERY, HAD BEEN RETURNED BY THE POST OFFICE AS UNDELIVERABLE, AND THE DEPARTMENT WAS NOW TRYING TO CONTACT THE PERSONS CONCERNED BY TELEPHONE OR BY VISITING THE PREMISES.
ANY PERSON WHO LODGED A PROPOSAL BUT HAS NOT RECEIVED A NOTICE OF DECISION FROM THE COMMISSIONER BY THE END OF JUNE SHOULD CONTACT THE DEPARTMENT.
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/3
FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 1977
NEED FOR MAINTENANCE OF GOOD ORDER IN SCHOOLS * * M
THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR. KENNETH TOPLEY SAID TODAY +1 AM SERIOUSLY CONCERNED WITH THE NEED TO MAINTAIN GOOD ORDER AND DISCIPLINE IN ALL SCHOOLS IN HONG KONG.+
MR. TOPLEY WAS COMMENTING ON THE RECENT INCIDENTS AT THE PRECIOUS BLOOD GOLDEN JUBILEE SECONDARY SCHOOL.
IN A PUBLIC STATEMENT THE DIRECTOR SAIDt + IT IS MY DUTY TO ENSURE THAT ALL MATTERS RELATING TO EDUCATION IN HONG KONG ARE CONDUCTED PROPERLY.
+1 DO NOT WISH TO SEE A REPETITION OF INCIDENTS SIMILAR TO THOSE WHICH OCCURRED RECENTLY AT PRECIOUS BLOOD GOLDEN JUBILEE SECONDARY SCHOOL. I HAVE THEREFORE ISSUED LETTERS OF WARNING TO ALL TEACHERS CONCERNED WHO WERE DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY INVOLVED IN A PUPILS’ DEMONSTRATION AT THE SCHOOL. IF THERE IS A REPETITION OF THIS BEHAVIOUR, I WILL BE OBLIGED TO CONSIDER SERIOUS ACTION UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE EDUCATION ORDINANCE.*
MR. TOPLEY URGES PARENTS OF PUPILS ATTENDING THE SCHOOL TO EXERCISE THEIR INFLUENCE ON THEIR CHILDREN BY COUNSELLING THEM TO BEHAVE IN AN ORDERLY AND APPROPRIATE MANNER. PARENTS SHOULD REALISE THAT PUPILS ABSTAINING FROM ATTENDING CLASSES ON THEIR OWN INITIATIVE OR AT THE INITIATIVE OF OTHERS WERE PARTICIPATING IN ACTIONS NOT IN THEIR BEST INTEREST. A BREACH OF SCHOOL REGULATIONS COULD LEAD TO SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES FOR PUPILS.
AS REGARDS DEPARTMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS INTO ALLEGED IRREGULARITIES OF THE SCHOOL ACCOUNTS, THE DIRECTOR REPEATS THAT THE MATTER IS NOW IN THE HANDS OF THE POLICE ON THE ADVICE OF THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS. NO FURTHER COMMENT ON THIS MATTER IS THEREFORE PROPER.
THE DIRECTOR, HOWEVER, ACCEPTS THE NEED FOR STRONG AND PROPER MANAGEMENT OF THE SCHOOL AND TO THIS END APPOINTED AN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT OFFICER AS A MANAGER OF THE SCHOOL AT THE FIRST HINT OF ALLEGED MALADMINISTRATION IN MID-APRIL. +THERE CAN BE NO JUSTIFICATION FOR THE INVOLVEMENT OF CHILDREN SUBSEQUENTLY IN MATTERS WHICH HAD BEEN TAKEN FIRMLY IN HAND BY THE DEPARTMENT AT THE OUTSET,* MR. TOPLEY SAID.
THE DIRECTOR TAKES THE OPPORTUNITY OF THIS PUBLIC STATEMENT TO SAY THAT CONTRACTS RECENTLY SIGNED BY THE TEACHERS OF THE SCHOOL WERE LEGALLY BINDING ON BOTH THE TEACHING STAFF AND THE SCHOOL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE. THE CONDITIONS OF SERVICE OUTLINED BY THESE CONTRACTS SHOULD BE SCRUPULOUSLY OBSERVED BY BOTH PARTIES.
IN CONCLUSION THE DIRECTOR BELIEVES THAT THE PUBLIC GENERALLY WILL WELCOME THIS EXPRESSION OF HIS CONCERN AND DETERMINATION NOT TO TOLERATE THE DISRUPTION OF GOOD ORDER AND DISCIPLINE IN SCHOOLS.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 1977
4
RECORD PRODUCTION BY PRINTING DEPARTMENT
******
DESPITE THE LOSS OF SOME OF ITS HIGH CALIBRE STAFF AND RESTRICTIONS CAUSED BY THE TWO YEARS OF RECESSION, THE PRINTING DEPARTMENT HAS ACHIEVED AN IMPRESSIVE RECORD IN PRODUCTION OVER THE LAST THREE YEARS FROM 1974 TO 1977.
IN THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1976-77,xTHE PAPER THROUGHPUT REACHED A RECORD 2,358 TONS WITH A STAFF STRENGTH OF 396, COMPARED WITH 1,890 TONS IN 1974-75 WHEN THE DEPARTMENT HAD 413 STAFF.
THE WORKLOAD OF THE DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN INCREASING AT AN AVERAGE RATE OF NINE PER CENT OVER THE LAST THREE YEARS ALTHOUGH THE FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS IMPOSED AS A RESULT OF WORLD-WIDE RECESSION, CAUSED A MOMENTARY DROP IN INPUT DURING 1975-76.
A NUMBER OF FACTORS HAS CONTRIBUTED TO THIS INCREASE, SUCH AS THE GROWING DEMAND FOR THE USE OF COLOUR IN GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS, WHICH MORE THAN DOUBLED IN 1976-77 OVER THE PREVIOUS YEAR, AND THE RISE IN IN-PLANT PRODUCTIVITY AS A RESULT OF THE DROP IN VALUE OF CONTRACTS PLACED OUTSIDE.
THIS VALUE IN 1976-77 PLUNGED TO $1.7 MILLION COMPARED WITH $7.9 MILLION IN 1973-74.
+THOUGH THERE WAS AN EVER INCREASING WORKLOAD, IT WAS HANDLED MORE EFFECTIVELY DUE TO BETTER DIRECTION, RATIONALISATION OF PRODUCT WHEREVER POSSIBLE, MORE SKILFUL UTILISATION OF RESOURCES AND A SPLENDID RESPONSE FROM THE TOTAL WORKFORCE,* A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT EXPLAINED.
A PRODUCTION CONTROL UNIT WAS SET UP IN LATE 1974 TO TAKE CARE OF THE PLANNING AND SPECIFYING OF ALL INCOMING WORK, OPTIMUM UTILISATION OF RESOURCES, CO-ORDINATION AND DIRECTION OF THE THREE MAIN PRODUCTION DIVISIONS, COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS OF PRODUCTION DATA, AND QUALITY CONTROL.
BUT APART FROM THE NATURAL WASTAGE OF STAFF TURNOVER AND THE LOSS OF A NUMBER OF ITS TOP NOTCH OFFICERS TO OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, THE SEVERE SHORTAGE OF SPACE IS THE MOST INHIBITING PROBLEM THAT THE DEPARTMENT FACED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT SATURATION POINT WAS REACHED MANY YEARS AGO AND IT WAS NECESSARY TO SEEK EXTERNAL STORAGE FACILITIES.
THE CONTINUING RISE IN PRODUCTIVITY REQUIRING A GREATER THROUGHPUT OF PAPER, CALLED FOR A LARGER MARSHALLING AREA FOR BULK PAPER STORAGE, A LARGER CUTTING-TO-SI ZE WORKING AREA, A LARGER SPACE FOR WORK IN PROGRESS AND A GREATER HOLDING AREA FOR PACKED WORK AWAITING DELIVERY.
/AS TO THE .....
FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 1977
5
AS TO THE IMPROVEMENTS TO BE MADE IN THE PRODUCTION LINES, A FIRM OF CONSULTANTS, SPECIALISTS IN THE FIELD OF COMPUTER-AIDED PHOTO-COMPOSITION, HAD ADVISED THAT THE TIME WAS WELL RIPE FOR A VENTURE INTO PHOTO-COMPOSITION FROM HOT-METAL TYPE-CASTING SYSTEM, AND THAT THERE WERE CONSIDERABLE ADVANTAGES TO BE GAINED FROM SUCH A STEP, THE SPOKESMAN INDICATED.
A NUMBER OF SUCH SYSTEMS ARE BEING NEGOTIATIONS ARE PROGRESSING.
INVESTIGATED AND
A COST SYSTEM, AIMED AT A SENSIBLE APPORTIONMENT AND RECOVERY OF ALL COSTS, BILLING SYSTEMS, EXPENDITURE CONTROL SYSTEMS AND MANAGEMENT INFORMATION FOR COST AND PRODUCTION CONTROL, HAS ALSO BEEN DEVISED BY A TREASURY ACCOUNTANT FOR THE DEPARTMENT IN MARCH 1976. TENDERS ARE BEING CALLED FOR THE SOFTWARE PROGRAMMES AND THE DATA PREPARATION UNITS.
JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE BILL KO
A BILL TO ESTABLISH THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE, FORMERLY REFERRED TO AS THE SHA TIN SPORTS CENTRE, IS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY.
THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE BILL PROVIDES FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A BOARD TO BE KNOWN AS THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE BOARD WHICH WILL BE A BODY CORPORATE TO PLAN, CONSTRUCT AND MANAGE THE CENTRE.
THIS BOARD WILL CONSIST OF UP TO NINE MEMBERS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR, OF WHOM UP TO FOUR WILL BE APPOINTED IN CONSULTATION WITH THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB, SINCE THE CENTRE IS A JOINT VENTURE BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE JOCKEY CLUB.
ITS OFFICIAL NAME, THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE, WAS APPROVED RECENTLY BY THE PROVISIONAL BOARD AND THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL.
THE PROVISIONAL BOARD OF FIVE WAS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR IN APRIL TO SEE THE LEGISLATION THROUGH ITS FORMATIVE STAGES AND TO GET THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CENTRE UNDER WAY..
THIS PROVISIONAL BOARD CONSISTS OF SIR ALBERT RODRIGUES AS CHAIRMAN, A KEEN SPORTSMAN AND PROMINENT HONG KONG CITIZEN-MR. P.G. WILLIAMS AND MR. LAMSON KWOK, STEWARDS OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB= SIR DONALD LUDDINGTON, A LONG-TIME CIVIL SERVANT OF HONG KONG, AND MR. EDWIN WONG, AN ARCHITECT WITH THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT SPECIALISING IN RECREATIONAL DESIGN.
ALL THE MEMBERS OF THE PROVISIONAL BOARD HAVE BEEN AND STILL ARE KEENLY INTERESTED IN A WIDE VARIETY OF SPORTS. THEY WILL BE APPOINTED TO THE FULL BOARD ONCE THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION IS ENACTED.
THE PROVISIONAL BOARD HAD ALREADY EMPLOYED CONSULTANTS TO RECRUIT THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE AND THE POST HAD BEEN ADVERTISED BOTH LOCALLY AND IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.
IT HAS SO FAR MET ON THREE OCCASIONS AND WILL BE MEETING FURTHER TO CONSIDER THE SCOPE AND FUNCTION OF THE CENTRE IN THE HONG KONG SPORTING SCENE.
FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 1977
- 6
SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME TO OPEN ON SUNDAY *****
A PRESS CONFERENCE TO MARK THE OPENING OF THIS YEAR’S SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME WILL BE HELD AT GILWELL CAMP, TATES CAIRN AT 3 P.M. ON SUNDAY (JUNE 19).
THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR. F.K. LI, ACCOMPANIED BY MR. JAMES Y.C. SO, CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE FOR YOUTH RECREATION, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
SIR KENNETH PING-FAN FUNG. WHO IS STEWARD OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB, WILL PRESENT A CHEQUE FOR 81.6 MILLION TO MR. LI AS THE CLUB’S DONATION TOWARDS THE 1977 SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME.
ABOUT 150 YOUNGSTERS WILL DEMONSTRATE FOLK DANCE, ARCHERY, CAMP CRAFT, LIFE SAVING, FIRST AID, AND VARIOUS OUTDOOR AND INDOOR ACTIVITIES TO OFFER MEDIA MEMBERS A PREVIEW OF THIS YEAR’S PROGRAMME.
A PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION ILLUSTRATING ASPECTS OF THE SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME WILL BE ON DISPLAY INSIDE THE CAMP’S JUBILEE LODGE. A TEA RECEPTION WILL ALSO BE HELD THERE.
NOTE TO ED I TORSt
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THIS OPENING CEREMONY. TRANSPORTATION WILL BE PROVIDED.
MEDIA MEMBERS SHOULD ASSEMBLE AT QUEEN’S PIER AT 2 P.M. ON SUNDAY TO BOARD SPECIAL COACHES FOR THE CAMP.
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SECRETARY FOR NEW TERRITORIES TO OFFICIATE AT
GRADUATION CEREMONY
******
NOTE TO EDITORS:
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES, WILL OFFICIATE AT A GRADUATION CEREMONY OF THE JU CHING CHU ENGLISH COLLEGE NEXT MONDAY (JUNE 20).
THE CEREMONY WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE CITY HALL CONCERT HALL AT 4.30 P.M.
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO HAVE THE GRADUATION CEREMONY COVERED.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 1977
- 7 -
NEW LIST OF CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS AND TRUSTS ON SALE *****
A REVISED LIST OF CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS AND TRUSTS WHICH WAS GAZETTED LAST FRIDAY (JUNE 10) IS NOW ON SALE AT $3.50 PER COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GPO BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE.
THE CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS AND TRUSTS LISTED THEREIN HAVE BEEN RECOGNISED ON MAY 31, 1977 AS EXEMPT FROM TAX UNDER SECTION 88 OF THE INLAND REVENUE ORDINANCE.
THE INLAND REVENUE ORDINANCE PROVIDES, SUBJECT TO CERTAIN LIMITATIONS TAX RELIEF FOR PERSONS WHO MAKE DONATIONS OF MONEY TO ANY CHARITABLE INSTITUTION OR TRUST OF A PUBLIC CHARACTER.
I
EXHIBITION OF ENGINEERING AND FURNITURE DESIGNS
*****
EXAMPLES OF ENGINEERING DESIGN, ELECTRIC/ELECTRON ICS AND FURNITURE DESIGN ARE ON DISPLAY AT THE ARSENAL STREET POLICc. PRIMARY SCHOOL.
THE PROJECTS HAVE BEEN MADE AS PART OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR FORM 5 PUPILS WHO TAKE WOODWORK AND METALWORK IN THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION.
THE PROJECT APPROACH HAS INVOLVED PUPILS IN INITIATING THEIR OWN IDEAS PROBLEM SOLVING AND CREATIVE WAYS OF WORKING WITH WOOD AND METAL IT HAS RESULTED IN A MORE ENLIGHTENED PROGRAMME OF LEARNING IN FIFTH YEAR PRACTICAL STUDY.
OFFICIALS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, THE POLYTECHNIC AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT 'WILL VISIT THE EXHIBITION AT 11.15 A.M. TODAY (FRIDAY). IT WILL BE THE FORERUNNER TO A LARGER EXHIBITION PLANNED TO BE HELD IN THE RAILWAY TERMINAL AT HUNG HOM IN SEPTEMBER.
AMONG THE GUESTS WILL BE THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR. ANDREW KINGWELL, AND TWO ASSISTANT DIRECTORS OF EDUCATION, MR^ ARTHUR BROWN AND MR. DANIEL WATERS.
MR. KINGWELL, WHO IS THE ADVISER ON TECHNICAL EDUCATION, WILL LEAVE HONG KONG SHORTLY ON RETIREMENT.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 1977
- 8
SPEEDPOST RESUMES FOR BONA FIDE SAMPLES TO U.S.A.
******
THE DESPATCH OF SAMPLES BY SPEEDPOST TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, SUSPENDED EARLIER THIS MONTH, WILL BE RESUMED FROM MONDAY (JUNE 20).
A POST OFFICE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT THE SERVICE WAS SUSPENDED BECAUSE ITEMS OF MERCHANDISE, WHICH WERE DUTIABLE AND THUS SUBJECT TO DELAY BY CUSTOMS, WERE BEING SENT BY SPEEDPOST AS ’SAMPLES’.
HE SAID THE UNITED STATES AUTHORITIES HAD NOW MADE CLEAR THAT BONA FIDE SAMPLES MUST BE :
* NOT VALUED AT MORE THAN US$1j OR MARKED, TORN, PERFORATED OR OTHERWISE TREATED SO THAT THEY ARE UNSUITABLE FOR SALE OR FOR USE OTHERWISE THAN AS SAMPLES, AND
* INTENDED FOR USE IN THE UNITED STATES FOR SOLICITING ORDERS.
+SENDERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO SIGN A DECLARATION FORM TO THIS EFFECT BEFORE SAMPLES ARE ACCEPTED FOR TRANSMISSION.
+1T IS REGRETTED THAT ITEMS OF MERCHANDISE WHICH DO NOT MEET THESE CONDITIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. THEY MAY, OF COURSE, BE SENT BY ORDINARY AIR-MAIL SERVICES,+ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
BUSINESS DOCUMENTS WILL CONTINUE TO BE ACCEPTED FOR SPEEDPOST WITHOUT RESTRICTION, HE ADDED.
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HOLIDAY POSTAL ARRANGEMENTS * * * *
THE POST OFFICE ANNOUNCED TODAY THAT THERE WOULD BE NO MAIL DELIVERY AND ALL POST OFFICES WOULD BE CLOSED ON TUESDAY (JUNE 21) WHICH IS A GENERAL HOLIDAY.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
SATURDAY, JUNE IS, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR TO ATTEND TAI PO DRAGON BOAT RACES ........ 1
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR FESTIVITIES ............... 2
ANTI-RABIES CAMPAIGN MOVES TO WESTERN DISTRICT ..... 3
GOVERNMENT WILL MANAGE ABERDEEN TUNNEL ............. 4
PWD DIRECTOR TO PRESENT JUBILEE MEDALS TO HIS STAFF ... 5
PART-TIME LECTURERS WANTED BY TECHNICAL INSTITUTES . 5
BAILEY BRIDGE TO BE CLOSED FOR TWO DAYS ............ 6
WATER CUT IN TSUEN WAN ............................. 6
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 1977
1
GOVERNOR TO ATTEND DRAGON BOAT RACES AT TAI PO
* * * * *
MAJOR DRAGON BOAT RACES WILL TAKE PLACE AT FIVE LOCATIONS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES NEXT TUESDAY (JUNE 21) TO MARK THE ANNUAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL.
TEAMS WILL ROW AND VIE FOR TROPHIES AT RACES AT TAI PO, TUEN MUN, TAI 0 ON LANTAU ISLAND, CHEUNG CHAU AND SAI KUNG.
THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, WILL BE THE GUEST OF HONOUR AT THE TAI PO RACES AND WILL PRESENT TROPHIES TO WINNING TEAMS. THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES, WILL ALSO ATTEND.
HEATS WILL START AT 9 A.M. IN TAI PO, AND THE GOVERNOR WILL ARRIVE SHORTLY BEFORE 10.30 A.M. IN TIME TO WATCH AN INVITATION RACE AND THE CHAMPION CUP FINAL.
AT TUEN MUN, RACES WILL BEGIN AT 9.30 A.M., AND THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DENYS ROBERTS, WILL BE THE GUEST OF HONOUR. HE WILL ARRIVE AT ABOUT NOON AND LATER PRESENT PRIZES TO WINNING TEAMS.
THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES (GENERAL), MR. MORRIS MORGAN, WILL WATCH THE RACES AT TA I 0 AND CHEUNG CHAU AND WILL LATER PRESENT PRIZES.
HE WILL ARRIVE AT TA I 0 AT ABOUT NOON AND LATER GO TO CHEUNG CHAU, ARRIVING THERE AT 3 P.M.
AT SAI KUNG, THE GUEST OF HONOUR WILL BE THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES (DEVELOPMENT), MR. JOHN TODD, WHO WILL PRESENT PRIZES AT ABOUT 1 P.M.
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Z2......
SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 1977
- 2 -
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR DRAGON BOAT FESTIVITIES
H * * * X
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE INTRODUCED IN YUEN CHAU TSAI, TAI PO AND IN YAU MA TEI FOR THE DRAGON BOAT FESTIVITIES ON TUESDAY (JUNE 21).
A SPECIAL BUS SERVICE, ROUTE NO. 7OB, WILL OPERATE BETWEEN JORDAN ROAD FERRY AND TAI PO FROM 7 A.M. TO 2 P.M. FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO ATTEND THE RACES AT YUEN CHAU TSAI. THE TERMINUS OF THIS BUS ROUTE IN TAI PO WILL BE SITUATED AT PO HEUNG STREET NEAR WAI YI STREET.
THE TWO EXISTING BUS STOPS ON EITHER SIDE OF TAI PO ROAD AT YUEN CHAU TSAI WILL BE SUSPENDED BETWEEN 7.30 A.M. AND 12.30 P.M.
BEGINNING FROM 8 A.M. ON MONDAY (JUNE 20) TO ABOUT 2 P.M. ON TUESDAY, VEHICLES WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM PARKING AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS!
M BOTH SIDES OF TAI PO ROAD AND KWONG FUK ROAD, FROM THE JUNCTION OF TAI PO ROAD AND THE SLIP ROAD INTO TAI PO KAU RAILWAY STATION TO THE JUNCTION OF KWONG FUK ROAD AND TING KOK ROAD,
* OLD TAI PO ROAD, BETWEEN THE APPROACH ROAD TO TAI PO POLICE STATION AND WONG SHIU CHI SCHOOL,
* THE UNNAMED ROAD LEADING FROM KWONG FUK ROAD TO TAI PO POLICE STATION, AND
* TUNG CHEONG STREET.
CARS WITH SPECIAL RED PARKING LABELS WILL BE ALLOWED TO PARK ALONG THE LENGTH OF OLD TAI PO ROAD BETWEEN WONG SHIU CHI SCHOOL AND THE APPROACH ROAD TO TAI PO POLICE STATION. THOSE WITH BLUE LABELS WILL BE ABLE TO PARK IN HEUNG SZE WUI STREET.
IN YAU MA TEI, MAN CHEONG STREET WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FROM 11 A.M. TO 5 P.M. ON TUESDAY. BETWEEN 8 A.M. AND 5 P.M., THE METERED PARKING SPACES AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS WILL BE SUSPENDED:
X MAN CHEONG STREET,
X THE SECTIONS OF MAN WAI STREET, MAN YUEN STREET, MAN YING STREET AND MAN WUI STREET WEST OF MAN SHING STREET, AND
* THE PUBLIC CAR PARK NEXT TO JORDAN ROAD VEHICULAR FERRY
PIER.
/A SPOKESMAN .....
SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 1977
- 3 -
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ADVISED MOTORISTS GOING TO DESTINATIONS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES OTHER THAN TAI PO ON TUESDAY, DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL DAY, TO USE CASTLE PEAK ROAD AND ROUTE TWISK.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THERE WOULD BE POSSIBLE DELAYS ALONG TAI PO ROAD BETWEEN SHA TIN AND TAI PO IN THE MORNING AND IN THE EARLY AFTERNOON THAT DAY. %
PARKING FACILITIES IN TAI PO WILL BE LIMITED AND THOSE ATTENDING THE BOAT RACES WERE ADVISED TO USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT.
TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE PUT UP IN TAI PO AND IN YAU MA TEI TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
0
DOG INOCULATION SERVICE FOR WESTERN AND KENNEDY TOWN ******
THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT WILL CONTINUE ITS CAMPAIGN AGAINST RABIES IN WESTERN DISTRICT AND KENNEDY TOWN NEXT MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY (JUNE 20 AND 22).
ANNOUNCING THIS TODAY, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT EXPLAINED THAT THE TWO-DAY OPERATION WILL BE NON-CONSECUTIVE BECAUSE DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL FALLS ON TUESDAY (JUNE 21).
TEMPORARY DOG INOCULATION AND LICENSING CENTRES WILL BE SET UP AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
* IN FRONT OF SAI YING POON JOCKEY CLUB CLINIC IN QUEEN’S ROAD WEST-
* JUNCTION OF QUEEN’S ROAD WEST AND HILL ROAD (AT SIDE OF THE CHARTERED BANK BRANCH)-
* JUNCTION OF BELCHER’S STREET AND DAVIS STREET (AT SIDE OF SAI HO TEA HOUSE)
THESE CENTRES WILL BE OPEN FROM 9 A.M. TO 5 P.M. DOG OWNERS LIVING IN NEIGHBOURING AREAS ARE ADVISED TO MAKE USE OF THE FACILITIES TO HAVE THEIR PETS IMMUNISED AND LICENSED DURING THE TWO DAYS.
SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 1977
4
U
GOVERNMENT WILL MANAGE ABERDEEN TUNNEL BETTER ******
THE GOVERNMENT HAS DECIDED THAT IT WILL MANAGE THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL WHEN IT IS COMPLETED IN 1980 AND HAS NOT ACCEPTED AN OFFER MADE BY THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL COMPANY TO MANAGE THE TUNNEL ON ITS BEHALF.
A SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY THAT THE GOVERNMENT ALREADY HAS EXPERIENCE OF AND EXPERTISE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF THE LION ROCK TUNNEL AND WILL ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE TUNNEL UNDER KAI TAK AIRPORT WHEN IT IS COMPLETED.
+THERE WILL BE OBVIOUS ADVANTAGES IN THE GOVERNMENT MANAGING THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL IN ADDITION TO THE OTHER TWO TUNNELS,+ HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT NOT ONLY WOULD EXISTING GOVERNMENT MANAGERIAL SKILLS IN THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT BE CAPABLE OF FULLER UTILIZATION, MAINTENANCE OF THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL IN ADDITION TO THE OTHER TWO SHOULD ENABLE EQUIPMENT AND LABOUR TO BE SHARED, THUS EFFECTING ECONOMIES WHICH COULD CONVENIENTLY ACCRUE.
THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL WILL PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN LINKING THE SOUTHERN PART OF HONG KONG ISLAND WITH THE CENTRAL DISTRICT AND IN OPENING UP THIS SOUTHERN AREA FOR DEVELOPMENT.
IT WILL ALSO PROVIDE A MUCH NEEDED ALTERNATIVE ROUTE TO THIS AREA, THUS RELIEVING THE EXISTING HAZARDOUS AND CONGESTED APPROACH VIA THE STUBBS, WONG NE I CHONG GAP AND REPULSE BAY ROADS.
+FOR THESE REASONS IT IS CONSIDERED MORE APPROPRIATE FOR THE GOVERNMENT, RATHER THAN THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL COMPANY, TO ASSUME MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES, AS IN THE CASE OF THE LION ROCK TUNNEL, AND CONTROL THE LEVEL OF THE TOLL TO BE CHARGED,* THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
+WHEN COMPLETED THE ABERDEEN TUNNEL WILL PROVIDE A FAST NORTH-SOUTH ROUTE BETWEEN THE NEW TERRITORIES AND THE SOUTHERN PART OF HONG KONG ISLAND, VIA THE LION ROCK AND THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNELS.
+AS THE GOVERNMENT CONTROLS THE ROAD NETWORK LINKING THE TUNNELS IT WOULD BE IN A BETTER POSITION TO DEAL WITH ANY TRAFFIC PROBLEMS,* HE ADDED.
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/5
SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 1977
SILVER JUBILEE MEDAL AWARDS AT P.W.D. X * K * K
NOTE TO EDITORS :
THREE MEMBERS OF PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT STAFF RECENTLY AWARDED THE QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE MEDAL, WITH THE MEDALS BY THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS, MR AT A CEREMONY TO BE HELD ON MONDAY (JUNE 20).
, WHO WERE WILL BE PRESENTED . DAVID MCDONALD,
THE THREE RECIPIENTS — MR. LEUNG CHAK, MR. LEUNG WAI AND MR. LO KAI — WERE AMONG 140 HONG KONG CITIZENS WHO WERE AWARDED THE MEDAL IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY.
YOU ARE INVITED TO HAVE THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY COVERED. IT WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE P.W.D. CONFERENCE ROOM ON THE 21ST FLOOR OF MURRAY BUILDING ON MONDAY AT 4.30 P.M.
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PART-TIME TECHNICAL TEACHERS WANTED
******
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S FOUR TECHNICAL INSTITUTES ARE INVITING APPLICATIONS FROM PEOPLE QUALIFIED IN TEACHING INDUSTRIAL OR COMMERCIAL SUBJECTS TO LECTURE PART-TIME IN THE COMING SESSION BEGINNING IN SEPTEMBER.
THE LECTURES, TO BE GIVEN IN THE EVENING OR ON SATURDAYS, RANGES FROM CRAFT TO HIGHER TECHNICIAN LEVEL.
THEY COVER SUBJECTS SUCH AS CLOTHING AND TEXTILE INDUSTRIES, COMMERCIAL AND GENERAL STUDIES, CONSTRUCTION, ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL ENGINEERING AND PRINTING.
LECTURERS WILL BE REMUNERATED A MINIMUM OF $35 AN HOUR FOR A CRAFT LEVEL COURSE AND UP TO $60 AN HOUR FOR AN ENDORSEMENT CERTIFICATE COURSE IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING.
TEACHING QUALIFICATIONS VARY WITH EACH COURSE BUT GENERALLY REQUIRE A RECOGNISED ACADEMIC QUALIFICATION AND SOME TEACHING OR WORKING EXPERIENCE.
FURTHER DETAILS CONCERNING THE COURSES WHICH WILL BE AVAILABLE CAN BE OBTAINED IN PERSON OR IN WRITING FROM THE MORRISON HILL TECHNICAL INSTITUTE AT 6, 01 KWAN ROAD, WAN CHAI- THE KWAI CHUNG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE AT HING SHING ROAD, KWAI CHUNG- THE KWUN TONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE AT 25, HIU MING STREET, KWUN TONG, AND THE HAKING WONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE AT LAI CHI KOK ROAD, CHEUNG SHA WAN.
THE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION IS JUNE 30
SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 1977
BAILEY BRIDGE TO BE TEMPORARILY CLOSED
******
BAILEY BRIDGE, WHICH LEADS TO TSI NG Yl VILLAGE, WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC FOR ABOUT TWO DAYS, FROM 10 A.M. ON MONDAY (JUNE 20).
THE BRIDGE IS TO BE TEMPORARILY CLOSED TO ENABLE ESSENTIAL MAINTENANCE WORKS TO BE CARRIED OUT.
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WATER CUT * * *
WATER SUPPLY TO A NUMBER OF PREMISES IN TSUEN WAN WILL BE INTERRUPTED FOR EIGHT HOURS BEGINNING FROM 10 P.M. ON MONDAY (JUNE 20).
THE TEMPORARY ARRANGEMENT WILL ENABLE THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT TO CARRY OUT FRESH WATER MAINS CONNECTION.
THE PREMISES TO BE AFFECTED ARE BOUNDED BY THE SOUTH SIDE OF YEUNG UK ROAD FROM WANG LUNG STREET TO MA TAU PA STREET, FUI YIU KOK STREET, AND WANG LUNG STREET FROM YEUNG UK ROAD TO MA TAU PA STREET.
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
SUNDAY, JUNE 19, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
UNWANTED GOODS YIELDED OVER 31 MILLION ..................... 1
VISIT OF UK CHINESE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE .................
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF WAI YIP STREET .....................
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
SUNDAY, JUNE 19, 1977
1
OVER SI MILLION RECOVERED FROM +RUBBISH+ ******
OLD SHOES AND BELTS, DERELICT VEHICLES AND MACHINERY — IN FACT ANYTHING THAT IS CONSIDERED +JUNK+ IS VALUABLE AS FAR AS THE GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT IS CONCERNED.
TO PROVE THE POINT, THE DEPARTMENT AUCTIONED OFF AN AVERAGE OF 41,000 +USELESS+ ITEMS BRINGING IN ABOUT $1.4 MILLION IN REVENUE FOR THE GOVERNMENT EVERY YEAR OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS.
BASICALLY THERE ARE THREE CATEGORIES OF GOODS DISPOSED OF — UNSERVICEABLE GOVERNMENT STORES AND EQUIPMENT, UNCLAIMED AND CONFISCATED GOODS.
EVERY FORTNIGHT BUYERS CONVERGE AT A GOVERNMENT CONTRACTED AUCTIONEER’S OFFICE IN HING WAI BUILDING, CENTRAL TO BID FOR THEM. TO THE DEALERS — AND THERE IS NOT A LACK OF THEM --DISUSED ARTICLES PROVIDE A CHEAP SOURCE OF RAW MATERIAL IN A TERRITORY WHERE NEARLY EVERYTHING IS IMPORTED.
THE GOODS RANGE FROM SMASHED CARS, DECREPIT TYPEWRITERS AND METAL SCRAP TO FOODSTUFF, GOLD ORNAMENTS AND APHRODISIACS.
HOWEVER, NOT ALL OF THEM AUTOMATICALLY FALL UNDER THE AUCTIONEER’S HAMMER. TOYS, NON-PERISHABLE FOODSTUFF, SUCH AS PEANUT OIL, TEXTILE MATERIALS AND NEW CLOTHING ARE DONATED TO CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS FOR DISTRIBUTION.
WHEN GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS CONSIDER STORES OR MATERIALS ARE NO LONGER SERVICEABLE, THE GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT IS ADVISED AND BOARDS OF CONDEMNATION ARE CONVENED TO EXAMINE HOW BEST TO DISPOSE OF THEM.
FOLLOWING THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE BOARD, STORES ARE EITHER ACCEPTED BY OTHER DEPARTMENTS FOR FURTHER USE, SOLD ON SITE, SENT TO THE SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT FOR BULK SALE IN SUITABLE LOTS SO AS TO SECURE THE MOST ADVANTAGEOUS PRICES, OR DESTROYED IF NOT CONSIDERED SUITABLE FOR SALE.
MR. R. KILVERT, ACTING DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES, SAID; +N0 MATERIALS ARE WASTED AND EVERY ATTEMPT IS MADE TO RECOVER SOME VALUE FOR GOODS WHICH HAVE BEEN SALVAGED AND THESE INCLUDE SUCH ITEMS AS BOOTS, SHOES, UNIFORMS, UNSERVICEABLE VEHICLES AND MACHINERY,* HE SAID.
IN 1973-74, 15,000 SALVAGED ITEMS FETCHED $800,000 AND IN 1975-76 ABOUT THE SAME NUMBER OF SUCH ITEMS REALISED $1.5 MILLION IN PROCEEDS.
THE MAJORITY OF UNCLAIMED GOODS COME FROM UNCLAIMED
PARCELS WHICH ARE SENT TO THE SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT BY THE POSTMASTER GENERAL AFTER A SIX-MONTH EFFORT TO LOCATE THE ORIGINAL SENDER HAS PROVED FRUITLESS.
/MOST OF THE .....
SUNDAY, JUNE 19. 1977
- 2 -
MOST OF THE ITEMS IN THESE PARCELS ARE DEER HORNS, GINSENG AND HERBAL MEDICINES, BUT THERE IS A LARGE PROPORTION OF CLOTHING AND TEXTILE MATERIALS.
+ITEMS RETURNED BY THE POLICE CONSIST OF EQUIPMENT FOR ILLEGAL FILM SHOWS, TAPE RECORDERS AND AUDIO EQUIPMENT, UNCLAIMED WATCHES, FOUNTAIN PENS AND PERSONAL ITEMS, SOME OF WHICH ARE QUITE VALUABLE AND HAVE BEEN RECOVERED FROM PEOPLE CONVICTED OF THEFT AND SO ON,* MR. KILVERT SAID.
+HERE AGAIN, EVERY ENDEAVOUR IS MADE TO LOCATE THE ORIGINAL OWNERS BEFORE THE ARTICLES ARE SENT TO THIS DEPARTMENT FOR DISPOSAL,* HE ADDED.
+ONLY ITEMS OF FAIRLY LOW VALUE ARE IN FACT SOLD BY AUCTION. ANY ITEM WHICH IS DEEMED TO HAVE A REASONABLE VALUE IS SOLD BY PUBLIC TENDER OR PRIVATE TREATY BY ARRANGEMENT WITH WELL-KNOWN FIRMS OF JEWELLERS.*
IN 1973-74, 8,000 ITEMS IN THIS CATEGORY REALISED 8130,000 COMPARED WITH 35,000 ITEMS VALUED AT $43,000 IN 1975-76.
THERE ARE ALSO GOODS CONFISCATED BY THE POLICE AND COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT. THESE VARY FROM MOTOR VEHICLES AND LAUNCHES TO BOOKS, FURNITURE, WATCHES AND ORNAMENTS. IN 1973-74, 5,000 SUCH ITEMS VALUED AT $218,000 WERE CONFISCATED COMPARED WITH 9,000 ITEMS VALUED AT $250,000 IN 1975-76.
THEY DO NOT, HOWEVER, INCLUDE THE SEIZURE AND SALE OF NARCOTICS — THE LARGEST SINGLE ITEM IN TERMS OF QUANTITY AND VALUE. THE SALE OF NARCOTICS IS CARRIED OUT BY THE CROWN AGENTS IN LONDON ON BEHALF OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT.
OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS, A TOTAL OF ABOUT 10,300 KILOGRAMS OF RAW OPIUM AND 1,200 KILOGRAMS OF MORPHINE WERE SHIPPED OUT BY THE DEPARTMENT TO THE SUCCESSFUL TENDERERS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND EUROPE.
MR. KILVERT EXPLAINED THAT WHEN NARCOTICS WERE SEIZED BY EITHER THE POLICE OR THE PREVENTIVE SERVICE, THEY WERE KEPT AS EVIDENCE DURING THE TRIAL OF THE PEOPLE INVOLVED.
WHEN THE CASE WAS OVER AND IF THE DRUGS WERE STILL USABLE FOR MEDICINAL PURPOSES, THE CROWN AGENTS IN U.K. WOULD OFFER THEM TO WELL-ESTABLISHED MANUFACTURERS OF PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS. THE PROCEEDS WOULD GO DIRECTLY TO GENERAL REVENUE. ROTTING DRUGS, HOWEVER, WERE DESTROYED IN THE INCINERATORS UNDER STRICT SUPERVISION, HE SAID.
SUNDAY, JUNE 19, 1977
r
J
UK CHINESE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE VISITS HONG KONG ******
AN 11-MEMBER DELEGATION FROM THE UNITED KINGDOM CHINESE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WILL ARRIVE ON TUESDAY (JUNE 21) TO SEE HONG KONG’S LATEST DEVELOPMENT AND TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PERMANENT CHINESE SCHOOL IN LONDON.
DURING THEIR THREE-WEEK STAY, THE GROUP WILL MEET THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR. F.K. LI, THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES, AND A NUMBER OF SENIOR GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS.
THE GOVERNMENT HAS ARRANGED A WEEK-LONG PROGRAMME FOR THE DELEGATION TO ENABLE THE VISITORS TO KEEP ABREAST OF HONG KONG’S LATEST PROGRESS, SUCH AS THE TUEN MUN NEW TOWN, HIGH ISLAND WATER SCHEME, AND PUBLIC HOUSING PROJECTS.
APART FROM VISITING SEVERAL GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, THE DELEGATION WILL ALSO CALL ON OTHER INSTITUTIONS AND ORGANISATIONS, INCLUDING THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC AND THE CHINESE MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION.
MEMBERS OF THE DELEGATION WILL ALSO MEET LOCAL COMMUNITY AND KAIFONG LEADERS AND STUDY THE FUNCTIONING OF THE MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES.
THE DELEGATION IS LED BY THE CHAMBER CHAIRMAN, MR. VINCENT TSUI, A WELL-KNOWN RESTAURANT OWNER IN LONDON.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
t;
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER A PRESS CONFERENCE Tp BE GIVEN BY THE DELEGATION AT 3 P.M. ON TUESDAY (JUNE 21) AT THE AIRPORT VIP PRESS CONFERENCE ROOM. THE DELEGATION WILL ARRIVE BY BRITISH AIRWAYS FLIGHT BA810, E.T.A. 2.40 P.M. REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT AND GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES WILL BE PRESENT TO ASSIST THE PRESS.
------o--------
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF WAI YIP STREET
*****
THE SECTION OF WAI YIP STREET BETWEEN ITS JUNCTIONS WITH LAI YIP STREET AND WITH KWUN TONG ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC BETWEEN MIDNIGHT AND 6 A.M. FROM NEXT WEDNESDAY TO FRIDAY (JUNE 22 TO 24) AND AGAIN FROM JUNE 26 TO 30.
THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE WILL FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FLYOVER BY THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION ACROSS THE STREET.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE PUT UP AND TRAFFIC POLICE WILL BE AT THE SITE TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
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PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
MONDAY, JUNE 20, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
TWENTY NEW SCHOOLS IN TSUEN WAN BY 1981 ..................... 1
FACE-LIFT FOR TSUEN WAN ..................................... 2
LONG-SERVING PWD STAFF RECEIVED MEDALS ...................... 3
PWD DRAGON BOAT TEAM ...................................... b
DIRECTOR OF MARINE TO MEET THE MEDIA ....................... /,
REGISTRATION TEAM VISITS LOK FU ............................. q
firing practice at castle peak RANGE ........................ 5
KOWLOON CITY ROAD TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT ....................... 6
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5'233191
MONDAY, JUNE 20, 1977
23 NEW SECONDARY SCHOOLS FOR TSUEN WAN OVER NEXT FOUR YEARS
******
THE GOVERNMENT WILL BUILD ABOUT 20 SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN TSUEN WAN BY 1981, AND EIGHT OF THEM ARE ALREADY UNDER CONSTRUCTION.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES, SAID THIS TODAY WHILE ADDRESSING A GRADUATION CEREMONY OF THE JU CHING CHU ENGLISH COLLEGE AT THE CITY HALL CONCERT HALL.
HE DESCRIBED THE NUMBER AS THE SORT OF FIGURE WHICH PEOPLE HAD COME TO ACCEPT WITHOUT EXCLAMATION BUT WHICH WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN DREAMT OF EVEN A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO.
CONSTRUCTION IS ALSO PROCEEDING ON AN AIR-CONDITIONED AUDITORIUM IN TSUEN WAN WHICH WOULD BE READY BY THE AUTUMN OF 1979, HE SAID.
MR. AKERS-JONES SPOKE OF THESE PROJECTS AS TWO EXAMPLES OF THE MANY THINGS BEING DONE IN TSUEN WAN TO IMPROVE OLD ENVIRONMENTS, TO ELIMINATE POOR LIVING CONDITIONS AND REMOVE DEFICIENCIES.
HOWEVER, HE TOLD THE GRADUATES THAT TO BUILD THE CONCRETE FABRIC OF THE TOWN AS MERE STATISTICS.
+TSUEN WAN IS YOUR TOWN AND, AS YOU SOME OF THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR IMPROVING
IT WAS NOT ENOUGH JUST AND TO COUNT THE PEOPLE
grow up, you Must assume IT,-*- HE SAID.
+LESSONS LEARNED AT SCHOOL, OR IN THE BOY SCOUTS, GIRL GUIDES, JUNIOR POLICE CALL, AND SO ON, ALL HAVE A PRACTICAL APPLICATION AS YOU GROW OLDER, IN JOINING TOGETHER WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS TO COMBAT AND ELIMINATE THE EVILS IN CUR SOCIETY: CRIME, DRUG ADDICTION AND LACK OF CONCERN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT OF THE TO*N,+ HE ADDED.
MR. AKERS-JONES SAID THE WORLD TODAY FACED CHANGES AND CHALLENGES, AND THE TEMPO OF CHANGE AND CHALLENGE IN HONG KONG WAS EQUALLY EXTRAORDINARY.
IN THE FIELD OF EDUCATION ALONE, HE SAID, THE CHANGES ARE REMARKABLE.
+IN 10 YEARS, OUR UNIVERSITY POPULATION HAS DOUBLED TO ITS PRESENT TOTAL OF 8,300= THE POLYTECHNIC HAS BEEN BUILT AND NOW HAO 8,300 FULL-TIME EQUIVALENT STUDENTS' PRIMARY SCHOOLING IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR ALL” AND NEXT YEAR THE SECONDARY SCHOOL ENTRANCE EXAMINATION * ILL DISAPPEAR AND ALL THOSE LEAVING PRIMARY SCHOOL WILL EE ABLE TO OBTAIN AIDED SECONDARY SCHOOLING,+ HE SAID.
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MONDAY, JUNE 20, 1977
- 2 -
TSUEN WAN TO BE CHANGED BEYOND RECOGNITION ******
THE GOVERNMENT PLANS RECOGNITION OVER THE NEXT
TO CHANGE THE FACE OF TSUEN WAN BEYOND FIVE YEARS.
THE TSUEN WAN TOWN MANAGER, MR. JAMES HAYES, SAID THIS TODAY AT THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF AN EXHIBITION OF PROPOSALS TO BEAUTIFY TSUEN WAN’S FIVE TOWN SQUARES.
THE DESIGNS FOR THE SQUARES HAVE BEEN DRAWN UP BY A GROUP OF THIRD YEAR ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS FROM THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THEIR DEPARTMENT HEAD, PROFESSOR K.C. LYE.
THEY WILL BE ON DISPLAY TO THE PUBLIC AT THE PRINCESS ALEXANDRA COMMUNITY CENTRE AT TAI HO ROAD FROM TOMORROW (JUNE 21) TO SUNDAY (JUNE 26). THE ORGANISERS HAVE PLACED SUGGESTION BOXES AROUND THE EXHIBITION SITE SO THAT VISITORS CAN GIVE THEIR OWN IDEAS TO THE GOVERNMENT ON THE TOWN SQUARE PROPOSALS.
THE SIX-DAY EXHIBITION IS BEING HELD UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE TSUEN WAN RECREATION AND AMENITIES (ADVISORY) COMMITTEE, AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE SET UP BY THE GOVERNMENT WITH A MAJORITY OF UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS DRAWN FROM A WIDE CROSS SECTION OF THE TSUEN WAN COMMUNITY.
MR. HAYES TOLD THE GUESTS AT THE OFFICIAL OPENING THAT PUBLIC AMENITIES OF ALL KINDS WERE REQUIRED TO ENHANCE THE DEVELOPMENT OF TSUEN WAN AS A NEW TOWN. +THERE IS A LONG LIST OF THESE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME OF PUBLIC WORKS,+ HE SAID.
+A GOOD START HAS ALREADY BEEN MADE AND THE RESULTS WILL SHOW OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS.
+THE NEW TOWN HALL WILL BE COMPLETED IN 1979 AND AN INDOOR GAMES HALL WILL EE READY AT ABOUT THE SAME TIME.
+THE KWAI CHUNG SPORTS GROUND WILL BE OPENED FOR USE IN 1978 WHILST THE EXISTING YEUNG UK ROAD SPORTS GROUND, NOW BEING IMPROVED, WILL LATER BE CONVERTED TO STADIUM USE.
+WE MAY ALSO EXPECT A START TO THE BUILDING OF THE TSO KUNG TAM OUTDOOR SPORTS AND RECREATION CENTRE AT THE END OF THIS YEAR.
+MANY OTHER MINOR AMENITIES ARE ALSO BEING PROVIDED IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE NEW TOWN. WE INTEND A PLANTING AND LANDSCAPING PROGRAMME.
+WHAT YOU SEE TODAY IS A REMINDER THAT WE ARE HERE AND THAT WE MEAN BUSINESS.*
MR. HAYES SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS GRATEFUL FOR THE EFFORT AND ENTHUSIASM OF THE ARCHITECTURAL STUDENTS AND ThEIR TUTORS IN PARTICIPATING IN THE TOWN SQUARE IMPROVEMENT SCHEME.
PROFESSOR LYE AND THE TSUEN WAN RURAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR. PETER YEUNG, JOINTLY OFFICIATED AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
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/2
MONDAY, JUNE 20, 1977
PWD DIRECTOR PRAISES THREE LONG SERVING STAFF MEMBERS * * * * *
THREE EMPLOYEES OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT WHO, BETWEEN THEM, HAVE SERVED WELL OVER A HUNDRED YEARS IN THE DEPARTMENT WERE TODAY PRESENTED WITH THE QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE MEDAL AT A CEREMONY AT P.g.D. HEADQUARTERS IN MURRAY BUILDING.
THE THREE MEN - MR. LEUNG CHAK, MR. LEUNG WAI AND MR. LC KAI -WERE AMONG 140 HONG KONG CITIZENS WHO WERE RECENTLY AWARDED THE QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE MEDAL IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY.
IN PRESENTING THE MEDALS, THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS, MR. DAVID MCDONALD, SAID THAT ALL THREE HAD STARTED WORK FOR THE GOVERNMENT AS YOUNG MEN MORE THAN 40 YEARS AGO, AND BETWEEN THEM HAD SERVED A TOTAL OF 129 YEARS.
ONE OF THE RECIPIENTS, MR. LEUNG CHAK, FIRST JOINED THE CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY OFFICE AS A SURVEY LABOURER IN 1933. NOW, 44 YEARS LATER, HE WORKS IN THE STORES SECTION OF THE SURVEY BRANCH AS AN OFFICE ATTENDANT.
THE SECOND EMPLOYEE, MR. LEUNG WAI, JOINED THE GOVERNMENT IN APRIL 1934. AFTER SERVING AS A CHAINMAN FOR SOME YEARS, HE BECAME AN OFFICE ATTENDANT IN 1950.
MR. MCDONALD SAID MR. LEUNG WAS WELL-KNOWN AMONG HIS COLLEAGUES FOR HIS CHEERFULNESS AND THE EFFICIENT SERVICE HE PROVIDES. +WHEN HE EVENTUALLY RETIRES,* MR. MCDONALD SAID, +HIS CONNECTION WITH THE WATERWORKS OFFICE WILL NOT END, BECAUSE HIS SON WILL BE LEFT BEHIND IN THE WATERWORKS OFFICE TO CARRY ON THE TRADITION OF CHEERFULNESS AND EFFICIENCY SET BY HIS FATHER.*
THE LAST RECIPIENT, MR. LO KAI, STARTED HIS CAREER WITH THE GOVERNMENT IN APRIL, 1935 AT THE AGE OF 18. HE WORKED BRIEFLY AS A MESSENGER BEFORE BEING PROMOTED TO THE FOREMAN GRADE.
+OVER THE YEARS HE DEVELOPED AN EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE OF THE KOWLOON DRAINAGE SYSTEM,* MR. MCDONALD SAID.
+IN TIMES OF TYPHOONS AND RAINSTORMS HE IS A MAN WHO CAN BE RELIED UPON TO BE AT HIS TOES AND HE HAS PASSED ON THIS SENSE OF LOYALTY TO MANY YOUNGER COLLEAGUES aHC HAVE BEEN TRAINED UNDER HIM.*
MR. MCDONALD SAID MR. LO’S LOYALTY AND OUTSTANDING SERVICE •WERE RECOGNISED IN 1975 BY THE AWARD OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE MEDAL.
A
MONDAY, JUNE 20, 1977
4
PWD TEAM TO COMPETE IN TUEN MUN DRAGON BOAT RACES
* * * * *
FOR THE THIRD YEAR IN SUCCESSION, A GROUP OF PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT STAFF WILL BE COMPETING IN THE ANNUAL DRAGON BOAT RACES AT TUEN MUN TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE P.W.D. CONTINGENT THIS YEAR COMES FROM THE NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT. IT COMPRISES 27 MEMBERS, INCLUDING ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS, AND ENGINEERING, ARCHITECTURAL AND SURVEYING ASSISTANTS, PLANNING OFFICERS, CLERKS AND MESSENGERS.
A TOTAL OF 24 TEAMS WILL BE VYING FOR THE TUEN MUN CUP WHICH WILL BE PRESENTED TO THE WINNERS BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DENYS ROBERTS.
TEAM CAPTAIN ANTHONY KWAN SAID THAT THE TEAM HAD BEEN PRACTISING HARD LATELY.
HE RECALLED THAT ALTHOUGH THE P.W.D. TEAM DID NOT WIN < LAST YEAR, IT HAD SHOWN TREMENDOUS IMPROVEMENT OVER THE PREVIOUS YEAR.
HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT THE TEAM WOULD DO BETTER THIS YEAR AND THAT THE EFFORTS OF THE CREW WOULD NOT BE WASTED.
ON THE EVE OF THE RACES, THE DIRECTOR OF NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT, MR. J.R. WHITAKER, HAD AN INFORMAL MEETING WITH MEMBERS OF THE TEAM AND WISHED THEM LUCK IN THE RACES.
-----o------
+MEET THE MEDIA+ SESSION
*****
NOTE TO EDITORS:
ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE FOR THE NEW DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR. M.J. ALEXANDER, TO MEET THE MEDIA AT 3 P.M. ON THURSDAY (JUNE 23).
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE MEETING, WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE G.I.S. THEATRE ON THE FIFTH FLOOR OF BEACONSFIELD HOUSE.
TELEVISION CREWS ARE ASKED TO ARRIVE EARLY SO THAT THEY HAVE AMPLE TIME TO SET UP THEIR EQUIPMENT.
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MONDAY, JUNE 20, 1977
- 5 -
REGISTRATION TEAM TO OPERATE AT LOK FU ESTATE OFFICE
* * M *
THE COMMISSIONER OF REGISTRATION ANNOUNCED TODAY THAT A TEAM FROM THE REGISTRATION OF PERSONS OFFICE WILL CONDUCT REGISTRATIONS AT LOK FU ESTATE OFFICE FOR RESIDENTS AND PERSONS LIVING NEARBY FOR FOUR DAYS WITH EFFECT FROM JUNE 27.
REGISTRATIONS WILL BE CONDUCTED BETWEEN 9.30 A.M. AND 4.30 P.M. DAILY.
THIS IS TO ENABLE PARENTS OR GUARDIANS TO REGISTER THEIR CHILDREN OR WARD BETWEEN 11 AND 17 YEARS OF AGE FOR JUVENILE IDENTITY CARDS, AND HOLDERS OF JUVENILE IDENTITY CARDS TO REGISTER FOR ADULT IDENTITY CARDS ON REACHI ING 18 YEARS OF AGE.
THE COMMISSIONER REMINDED ALL PERSONS LIVING IN THIS AREA OF THEIR RESPONSIBILITY TO REGISTER THEMSELVES AND THEIR CHILDREN FOR IDENTITY CARDS AND TO REPORT CHANGES OF EMPLOYMENT OR RESIDENTIAL ADDRESSES, MARITAL STATUS, OR ANY OTHER PARTICULARS WHICH HAVE CHANGED SINCE REGISTERING FOR THEIR IDENTITY CARDS.
0 - - - -
FIRING PRACTICE
* * * *
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE AT CASTLE PEAK RANGE FOR TwO DAYS STARTING ON WEDNESDAY (JUNE 22).
THE PUBLIC ARE REMINDED THAT IT IS DANGEROUS TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN THE RED FLAGS ARE FLYING DURING THE TIME OF THE FIRING PRACTICE.
THE PRACTICE TIMES ARE:
DATE
JUNE 22 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 A.M. - 11.59 P.M.
JUNE 23 (THURSDAY) 8.30 A.M. - 4.30 P.M.
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/6......
MONDAY, JUNE 20, 1977
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT AT KOWLOON CITY ROAD
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAS ANNOUNCED THAT WITH EFFECT FROM 10 A M. ON FRIDAY (JUNE 24), THE SECTION OF KOWLOON CITY ROAD BETWEEN MOK CHEONG STREET AND MA TAU KOK ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL VEHICULAR TRAFFIC EXCEPT THOSE REQUIRING ACCESS TO THE AFFECTED PREMISES.
THIS TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IS INTENDED TO FACILITATE ROADWORKS FOR SAN SHAN INTERCHANGE.
PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 19^7
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
THIRTEEN MORE WORKSHOPS FOR THE DISABLED ................. 1
CRAFTSMEN’S METRICATION GUIDE ON SALE .................... 3
SURVEY ON PLASTICS INDUSTRY ............................. A
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 1977
1
RAPID DEVELOPMENT OF SHELTERED WORKSHOPS 13 MORE TO BE BUILT NEXT DECADE ******
THE FIRST OF A NEW SERIES OF SHELTERED WORKSHOPS FOR THE DISABLED WILL EE SET UP BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT THIS AUTUMN.
THE WORKSHOP, LOCATED IM THE LEK YUEN ESTATE, WILL PROVIDE WORKING PLACES FOR 100 DISABLED PERSONS.
DISCLOSING THIS TODAY, MR. KHOO TAI-PIN, HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT’S REHABILITATION DIVISION, SAID AT LEAST 13 SUCH WORKSHOPS WOULD EE PROVIDED ON A DISTRICT BASIS WITHIN THE NEXT TEN YEARS TO CREATE OVER 1,600 WORK PLACES.
+THEY ARE BEING PLANNED IN LINE WITH THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY TO SET UP MORE SHELTERED WORKSHOPS FOR THE DISABLED.
♦THESE PLANS WILL BE REVIEWED ANNUALLY TC KEEP PACE WITH THE DEMAND AND TO ADAPT TO THE CHANGING NEEDS OF THE DISABLED COMMUNITY.*
SHELTERED WORKSHOPS, MR. KHOO EXPLAINED, ARE TO HELP THE DISABLED WHO APE INCAPABLE OF COMPETITIVE EMPLOYMENT, TO MAKE FULL USE OF THEIR RESIDUAL CAPACITIES BY OFFERING THEM PRODUCTIVE AND REMUNERATIVE EMPLOYMENT IN A SHELTERED ENVIRONMENT.
AT PRESENT, SEVEN SUCH WORKSHOPS ARE EE ING RUN BY THE SOCIAL a-ELFARE DEPARTMENT. THEY ABSORB ABOUT 600 DISABLED WORKERS WHO ARE EITHER BLIND, DEAF, EX-MENTAL PATIENTS, MENTALLY RETARDED OR PHYSICALLY DISABLED.
THEY ARE PRIMARILY ENGAGED IN ASSEMBLING WORK WHICH MAY BE PART-FINISHED, OR JUST PACKAGING. ALL MATERIALS ARE SUPPLIED BY THE MANUFACTURER. HARDLY ANY COST IS, THEREFORE, INVOLVED IN ADDITIONAL MATERIALS OR ANCILLARY FACILITIES, AND THUS MINIMISES THE NEED FOR CAPITAL.
♦WITH THE ABSENCE OF OVERHEAD TO BE RECOUPED FROM SHELTERED WORKERS, THERE WOULD BE NO DEDUCTION WHATSOEVER FROM THEIR EARNINGS AND THEY CAN TAKE HOME AS MUCH AS THEY ARE ABLE TO EARN ON A PIECE RATE EASIS ..HIGH IS ENTIRELY AT THE MARKET RATE FOR THE SAME TYPE OF WORK DONE EY ABLE-BODIED WORKERS,* MR. KHOO SAID.
IN ADDITION TO THAT, EACH SHELTERED WORKER IS ALSO GIVEN INCENTIVE PAYMENT OF S3.50 PER DAY AND PROVIDED WITH FREE TRAN3=0RT OR FULL REIMBUSEMENT OF TRAVELLING EXPENSES.
+ JOE ORDERS ARE PROCURED BY REHABILITATION OFFICERS OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT HAVING REGARD TO THE NUMBER AND ABILITIES OF THE DISABLED IN THEIR CHARGE. THE WORK IS SCHEDULED, TAUGHT AND SUPERVISED BY TRADE INSTRUCTORS OF .OR^SHOP SUPERV ISORS,+ MR. KHOO SA ID.
/HOWEVER,
7T52
TUESDAY, JUKE 21, 1977 - 2 -
HOWEVER, he noted that sheltered w'ORKERS are not employees OF THE WORKSHOPS OR THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT. RATHER, + THEY MAY LOOK UPON THEMSELVES AS THEIR OWN BOSS WITH FACILITIES PROVIDED BY THE DEPARTMENT TO ENABLE THEM TO DO SO.+
SUB-CONTRACT WORK FOR FIRMS AND NON-COMMERCI AL UNDERTAKINGS, THOUGH SIMPLE, UNREFINED AND WITHOUT FRILL OR FUSS, IS ECONOMICAL AND EFFECTIVE. IT IS CONSIDERED TO BE MOST CONDUCIVE TO MAXIMISING THE EFFORTS OF THE SHELTERED WORKERS.
IN CONTRAST, WORKSHOPS PRODUCING FOR THE MARKET OR SORTING AND REBUILDING OF DONATED ARTICLES, REQUIRE CAPITAL IN MANUFACTURE AND DISTRIBUTION, ’AND INCUR GREATER RECURRENT OVERHEAD WITHOUT CORRESPONDING REAL EARNINGS TO THE SHELTERED WORKERS.
APART FROM ITS ECONOMIC VALUE, THE WORKSHOPS ALSO SERVE AS A TRAINING GROUND FOR MARKETABLE SKILLS AND WORK HAEITS. IT CAN BE A STEPPING STONE TO VOCATIONAL ADJUSTMENT AND ADVANCEMENT. THOSE WHO ARE CAPABLE OF GRADUATING TO OPEN EMPLOYMENT AFTER A PERIOD IN A SHELTERED WORKSHOP ARE ALWAYS ENCOURAGED TO DO SO.
MR. KHOO RECALLED THAT THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT HAD HAD A LONG HISTORY OF PROVIDING WORK PLACES FOR THE DISABLED. SOME SHELTERED WORK, MAINLY KNITTING AND ASSEMBLING, HAD ALREADY BEEN AVAILABLE IN 1949 TO DISABLED PERSONS AS AN ADJUNCT TO VOCATIONAL TRAINING CLASSES PROVIDED IN THE NORTH POINT RELIEF CAMP.
ORGANISED SHELTERED WORKSHOPS APPEARED ON THE SCENE IN 1955 WHEN SOME RESIDENTS OF THE WELFARE CENTRE FOR THE PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED AT SHAP LONG ON LANTAU ISLAND TOOK UP BEAD STRINGING, PLASTIC BAG MAKING AND AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES.
SIMILAR SERVICES HAD ALSO BEEN PROVIDED BY VARIOUS NON-GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES IN CO-OPERATION WITH THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
OVER THE YEARS, THIS SERVICE HAD GROWN CONSIDERABLY AND >. ILL CONTINUE TO EXPAND IN THE YEARS TO COME, MR. KHOO SAID.
HOWEVER, HE NOTED, CONTINUOUS CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE NON-GOVERNMENT SECTOR IS NECESSARY IF SHELTERED EMPLOYMENT IS TO BE PROVIDED FOR ALL WHO NEED IT.
+MCRE IMPORTANT, MORE ORDERS FROM BOTH THE GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE FIRMS ARE NEEDED TO KEEP THESE SHELTERED WORKSHOPS GOING,* HE ADDED.
/3......
TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 1977
3
METRICATION HANDBOOK FOR CRAFTSMEN ON SALE K * * *
THE METRICATION UNIT OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT HAS COMPILED A METRICATION HANDBOOK FOR CRAFTSMEN.
ENTITLED +CRAFTSMEN’S METRICATION HANDBOOK*, THE 76-PAGE BOOKLET ENTIRELY IN CHINESE IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, AT $2.83 EACH.
IT IS ALSO AVAILABLE AT VARIOUS CITY DISTRICT OFFICES AND LEADING BOOKSHOPS.
COMMENTING ON THE BOOKLET, THE D.W.D.’S METRICATION OFFICER, MR. JIM MCGUINNIETY, SAID IT WAS DIVIDED INTO THREE SECTIONS.
THE FIRST SECTION INTRODUCES THE SYSTEM -- ITS BASE UNITS AND COMMON DERIVED UNITS AS WELL AS THE PREFIXES TO DENOTE THc MULTIPLES OF THE UNITS.
IT EXPLAINS THE USE OF SYMBOLS TO DENOTE UNITS AND PREFIXES AND THE USE OF LITRE, TONNE, HECTARE WHICH ARE COMMON EVERY DAY UNITS IN USE WITH THE SYSTEM.
THE SECTION ALSO DEALS WITH CONCEPTS OF LENGTH, AREA, VOLUME .■.EIGHT, FORCE, PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURE.
IT CONTAINS A FEW SIMPLE QUESTIONS WHICH AIM TO TEST THE READER’S COMPREHENSION OF THE SUBJECT. THE ANSWERS TO THESE QUESTIONS ARE PROVIDED.
THE SECOND SECTION DEALS WITH THE BASIC METRIC INFORMATION FOR INDIVIDUAL TRADES AND COVERS CONCRETE WORK, REINFORCING STEEL WORK, BRICKLAYING, JOINERY, GLAZING, PAINTING, PLUMBING, DRAINAGE AND ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL TRADES AND GIVES THE METRIC VALUES OF THE UNITS AND MATERIALS IN COMMON USAGE IN EACH TRADE.
THE LAST SECTION OF THE BOOKLET GIVES A LIST OF CONVERSION FACTORS FROM METRIC TO BOTH IMPERIAL AND LOCAL CHINESE UNITS.
MR. MCGUINNIETY SAID THAT THE POCKET SIZE BOOKLET, THE FIRST OF ITS KIND PRINTED IN CHINESE, WAS MADE UP WITH AN ATTRACTIVE COVER AND HEAVY QUALITY PAPER AND HAD A COLOUR CODE FOR EASY REFERENCE TO THE VARIOUS SECTIONS.
+ IT HAS BEEN WRITTEN IN VERY SIMPLE TERMS WELL WITHIN THE SCOPE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE USER FOR WHOM THE BOOKLET IS INTENDED,* HE SAID.
IT IS EXPECTED TO HAVE STRUNG SALES APPEAL TO ALL PEOPLE IN THE BUILDING AND ENGINEERING TRADES. THE REASON IS THAT UNDER RECENT METRICATION ORDERS RELATING TO THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCt ALL SUBMISSIONS IN RESPECT OF NEW BUILDINGS MUST BE IK METRIC TERMS AS FROM APRIL 1 THIS YEAR.
/♦PAINS .....
TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 1977
4
+ PAIX'S HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO ENSURE THE QUALITY OF THE BOOKLET WHILST AT THE SAME TIME KEEPING THE COST WITHIN THE REACH OF THE USER,+ MR. MCGL'INNIETY SAID.
AT $2.80 A COPY, HE SAID, EMPLOYERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO OBTAIN SUPPLIES FOR FREE DISTRIBUTION TO KEY PERSONNEL IF NOT TO ALL ARTISANS OR THEIR STAFF.
MR. MCGUINNIETY THANKED ALL MEMBERS OF THE WORKING PARTY, CONSISTING OF P.W.D. OFFICIALS AND REPRESENTATIVES OF BUILDING CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION, INSTITUTION OF STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS (h.K. BRANCH) AND VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, FOR THEIR GOOD WORK IN TRANSLATING HIS ORIGINAL TEXT.
0 - - - -
PLASTICS INDUSTRY SURVEY * * * *
A SURVEY OF HONG KONG’S PLASTICS INDUSTRY WILL BE CONDUCTED NEXT MONTH TO COLLECT UP-TO-DATE MANPOWER INFORMATION OF THE INDUSTRY.
THE SURVEY, THE FOURTH IN THE SERIES, WILL BE CONDUCTED FROM JULY 4 TO JULY 25 BY THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY TRAINING BOARD OF THE HONG KONG TRAINING COUNCIL, WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
QUESTIONNAIRES AND EXPLANATORY LETTERS HAVE BEEN SENT TO ABOUT 450 ESTABLISHMENTS SELECTED BY RANDOM SAMPLING.
SURVEY INTERVIEWING OFFICERS OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT WILL VISIT EACH OF THESE ESTABLISHMENTS TO ASSIST EMPLOYERS IN COMPLETING THE QUESTIONNAIRES.
THE INFORMATION WHICH EMPLOYERS ARE ASKED TO SUPPLY INCLUDES THE NUMBER OF WORKERS AT PRESENT EMPLOYED AND UNDER TRAINING, THE NUMBER OF EXISTING VACANCIES, AND A FORECAST OF ADDITIONAL NUMBER OF WORKERS IN THE NEXT 12 MONTHS.
REFERRING TO THE SURVEY, MR. DENNIS TING, CHAIRMAN OF THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY TRAINING BOARD, SAID +THE INFORMATION COLLECTED WILL BE HANDLED IN STRICT CONFIDENCE AND /.ILL BE PUBLISHED ONLY IN THE FORM OF STATISTICAL SUMMARIES .dTHOUT REFERENCE TO ALY INDIVIDUAL ESTABLISHMENT.
+THE INFORMATION REQUIRED IS OF VITAL IMPORTANCE FOR FORMULATING TRAINING PLANS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY, THEREFORE CO-OPERATION OF THOSE ESTABLISHMENTS CONCERNED IS SINCERELY SOLICITED TO ’'AKE THE SURVEY AGAIN A SUCCESSFUL ONE.+
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVT DEPARTMENTS MAY HAVE CUSTOMER RELATIONS OFFICERS . 1
PENALTIES FOR WASTAGE AND ILLEGAL USE OF WATER ........ 3
PERSONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE STRESSED ........... 5
MEETING THE NEEDS OF THE AGED ......................... 7
VEGETABLE FARMERS TO VISIT BRITISH AGRICULTURE ........ 8
GOVERNOR TO VISIT TEXTILE MILL ........................ 9
LABOUR COMMISSIONER TOURS HIGH ISLAND ................ 10
GOVERNOR TO ATTEND CAS ANNIVERSARY DINNER ............. H
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5^233191
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS MAY HAVE CUSTOMER RELATIONS OFFICERS
******
THERE ARE PLANS TO PUT CUSTOMER RELATIONS OFFICERS INTO GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS FURTHER TO IMPROVE THE SERVICES THE DEPARTMENTS PROVIDE DIRECTLY TO THE PUBLIC.
THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION SERVICES, MR. JOHN SLIMMING, SAID TODAY AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF HONG KONG ISLAND EAST, THAT THERE HAS BEEN NO SPECIFIC ORGANISATION UP TO THE PRESENT TO ENSURE THAT THE GOVERNMENT DISPENSES ITS VARIOUS SERVICES IN THE BEST POSSIBLE WAY FROM A CUSTOMER RELATIONS’ POINT OF VIEW.
+THE CONTACTS CAN BE SO MANY AND VARIED IN SOME DEPARTMENTS THAT THERE NEEDS TO BE AN OFFICER FULLY EXPERIENCED IN PR MATTERS WHO COULD WATCH OVER THE DEPARTMENT’S METHODS AND ADVISE THE HEAD AS TO HOW THE BEST RESULTS CAN BE OBTAINED,* HE SAID.
HE ENVISAGED THE WORK OF THE CUSTOMER RELATIONS OFFICER AS PRIMARILY GIVING ADVICE TO THE TOP LEVELS OF MANAGEMENT CONCERNING DEPARTMENTAL ARRANGEMENTS, FACILITIES AND PROCEDURES.
+HE WILL HAVE TO REVIEW PROCEDURES REGULARLY AND ENSURE THAT THE SERVICES PROVIDED ARE AS CONVENIENT AND SWIFT AS POSSIBLE.
+CONTACT AND COMMUNICATION WITH THE CUSTOMERS MUST BE DEVELOPED SO THAT PEOPLE WILL FULLY UNDERSTAND THE SERVICES THAT ARE BEING PROVIDED.
♦RECEPTION ARRANGEMENTS, METHODS FOR PROVIDING INFORMATION OF SPECIAL INTEREST AND THE MACHINERY FOR DEALING WITH COMPLAINTS, ALL OF THIS WOULD BE THE CUSTOMER RELATIONS OFFICER’S RESPONSIBILITY,* MR. SLIMMING SAID.
HE SUPPOSED IT WAS IN A WAY A GOOD THING FOR PEOPLE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT RUDE OR UNHELPFUL PEOPLE THEY HAVE MET OR SPOKEN TO ON THE TELEPHONE.
♦THINK,IF IT WERE THE OTHER WAY ROUND. IF IT WERE SO COMMONPLACE FOR PEOPLE TO BE TREATED RUDELY OR UNHELPFULLY, THAT IT WERE NO LONGER A MATTER FOR COMMENT- AND IF TO BE MET WITH POLITENESS AND FRIENDLINESS WAS SUCH A RARE OCCURRENCE AS TO BE REMARKABLE, THEN WE WOULD BE IN A WORRYING SITUATION,* HE SAID.
ON THE WORK OF THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES, MR. SLIMMING SAID ALL WOULD AGREE THAT DURING THE LAST FEW YEARS THERE HAS BEEN A MARKED CHANGE IN THE ATTITUDE OF GOVERNMENT OFFICERS TOWARDS THE IDEA OF DISCUSSING THEIR WORK AND TALKING ABOUT THEIR LONG-TERM PLANS AND ENDEAVOURS.
/HE SAID .....
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
2
HE SAID 25 YEARS AGO THERE WAS ONE PRESS OFFICER TO HANDLE THE GOVERNMENT’S PUBLIC RELATIONS- TODAY THE GIS HAS A STAFF OF WELL OVER 200 AND THE STORY OF ITS EXPANSION AND THE ACCOUNT OF THE WORKLOAD THAT THE DEPARTMENT UNDERTAKES COULD BE THE SUBJECT OF SEVERAL TALKS.
+WE RUN A 24-HOUR NEWS SERVICE- WE ANSWER OVER 300 PRESS QUERIES EVERYDAY. WE HAVE A TELEPRINTER SERVICE TO 67 SUBSCRIBERS AND A FACSIMILE SERVICE TO 36 RADIO AND TELEVISION STATIONS AND CHINESE NEWSPAPERS. WE PRODUCE BOOKS, BOOKLETS, LEAFLETS, THOUSANDS OF PHOTOGRAPHS EVERY YEAR.
+WE PRODUCE TWO FORTNIGHTLY NEWSPAPERS - ONE WITH A CIRCULATION OF 18,000 FOR THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE AND ANOTHER OF 33,000 FOR HONG KONG CHINESE LIVING ABROAD. WE PRODUCE A DAILY TABLOID, CALLED THE GIST - WHICH, AS THE NAME IMPLIES, IS THE GIST IN ENGLISH OF WHAT 15 CHINESE LANGUAGE PAPERS ARE SAYING EVERYDAY.
+WE PLAN AND RUN PUBLICITY CAMPAIGNS, LIKE THE CLEAN HONG KONG BEACHES AND THE FIGHT VIOLENT CRIME CAMPAIGNS, ROAD SAFETY, SAFETY IN THE HOME- PUBLICITY CONCERNING ASPECTS OF PUBLIC HEALTH.
+1 COULD TELL YOU ABOUT ALL THIS IN GREAT DETAIL, AND I HOPE YOU WOULD FIND IT INTERESTING, BUT WHAT IS IMPORTANT IS NOT WHAT WE DO BUT WHY WE DO IT.
+ALL THIS ENDEAVOUR ADDS UP TO PROMOTING A BETTER UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE POPULATION BECAUSE THE GOVERNMENT, LIKE ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT, NEEDS THE SUPPORT OF THE PEOPLE- MORE PARTICULARLY SO HERE BECAUSE, IF WE DO NOT LIKE IT, WE CANNOT VOTE IT OUT AND CHOOSE ANOTHER ONE,+ MR. SLIMMING SAID.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
3
PENALTIES FOR WASTAGE AND ILLEGAL USE OF WATER HMM
WITH ONLY A WEEK TO GO BEFORE A FINAL DECISION ON WHETHER TO IMPOSE FURTHER WATER RESTRICTIONS, THE P.W.D.’S WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT HAS ISSUED A STRONG WARNING ON PENALTIES FOR WASTAGE AND ILLEGAL USE OF WATER.
IN A RENEWED APPEAL TO CONSUMERS THE PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT WATER ENGINEER, MR. TOM TOMLINSON, SAID TODAY THAT FOR MOST PEOPLE THERE SHOULD BE LITTLE OR NO NEED TO STORE WATER DURING THE SHORT PERIOD OF NIGHT-TIME RESTRICTIONS.
♦WHAT ESPECIALLY CONCERNS THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT IS THE FACT THAT IN MANY CASES THE WATER THAT’S STORED OVERNIGHT IN BATHS AND BUCKETS IS EMPTIED THE NEXT MORNING WHEN THE TAPS COME ON AGAIN, RESULTING IN CONSIDERABLE WASTAGE,* SAID MR. TOMLINSON.
+IF SOME CONSUMERS FIND IT NECESSARY TO STORE WATER THEY SHOULD RETAIN ONLY ENOUGH FOR OVERNIGHT OR EARLY MORNING NEEDS. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO NEED FOR MOST CONSUMERS TO STORE WATER OVERNIGHT, ESPECIALLY WHEN THEY KNOW VERY WELL THAT SUPPLIES WILL BE TURNED ON AGAIN EARLY IN THE MORNING.*
MR. TOMLINSON ALSO ISSUED A REMINDER ON PENALTIES FOR THE ILLEGAL USE OR WASTAGE OF WATER DURING THE PERIOD OF RESTRICTIONS.
HE SAID, THE USE OF HOSES FOR ANY PURPOSE, INCLUDING THE WATERING OF PLANTS AND GARDENS AND WASHING CARS, IS STRICTLY ILLEGAL.
THE SAME BAN APPLIES TO THE HOSING DOWN OF VERANDAHS, COURTYARD AREAS AND ANY OTHER PARTS OF PRECINCTS AND BUILDINGS.
+EVEN IN NORMAL TIMES THE USE OF HOSES IS ALLOWED ONLY WITH THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE WATER AUTHORITY,* HE SAID.
+WAST- WATER FROM SINKS, BATHS AND BASINS CAN BE USED TO WASH FLOORS AND CARS, AND EVEN TO WATER PLANTS - NORMAL DOMESTIC
WATER WON’T HURT PLANTS AND FLOWERS.*
MR. TOMLINSON APPEALED TO CONSUMERS TO REPORT TO THE WATER AUTHORITY ANY CASE OF WATER WASTAGE OR ILLEGAL USE WHICH THEY MIGHT OBSERVE.
+WE REALISE THE RELUCTANCE OF SOME PEOPLE TO GET INVOLVED IN COURT PROCEEDINGS MIGHT BE AN INHIBITING FACTOR, BUT THERE NEED BE NO WORRY IN THIS RESPECT,* HE SAID.
+THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT OPERATES A PROSECUTION UNIT TO INVESTIGATE AND BRING TO COURT ILLICIT WATER CONSUMERS AND WASTERS, AND THIS UNIT HANDLES THE ENTIRE CASE FROM THE PROVISION OF EVIDENCE ONWARDS.*
/♦There would......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
4
+THERE WOULD BE NO NEED FOR INITIAL WITNESSES TO BE INVOLVED IN THE LITIGATION,* HE ADDED.
MR. TOMLINSON SAID THERE HAD BEEN A NUMBER OF RECENT COURT CASES INVOLVING WASTING WATER, STEALING WATER OR USING IT FOR PURPOSES OTHER THAN DOMESTIC CONSUMPTION.
+UNDER THE WATERWORKS ORDINANCE IT IS AN OFFENCE TO WASTE OR MISUSE «ATER,+ HE SAID. +IN ADDITION, ANY PERSON WHO, WITHOUT THE PERMISSION OF THE WATER AUTHORITY, ALTERS, INTERFERES WITH, DAMAGES OR DESTROYS ANY PART OF THE WATERWORKS SHALL BE.GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE WHICH, OF COURSE, INCLUDES TAMPERING WITH A SUPPLY TO BY-PASS GOVERNMENT METERS.
+IT IS ALSO AN OFFENCE TO INSTALL DRAW-OFF POINTS IN, OR DRAW WATER FROM ANY PART OF THE INSIDE SERVICE TO USE IN PLACES SUCH AS GARDENS, LAWNS, PLAYGROUNDS, GARAGES OR CAR PARKS, WITHOUT THE PERMISSION IN WRITING OF THE WATER AUTHORITY.
+ANY PERSON WHO IS GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE UNDER THESE REGULATIONS WILL BE LIABLE ON SUMMARY CONVICTION TO A FINE OF 32,OOO.+
MEANWHILE, THE RAIN WHICH FELL YESTERDAY DID LITTLE TO HELP AS WATER STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS CONTINUES TO FALL.
AT 9 A.M. TODAY, THE RESERVOIRS HAD ONLY 29,498 MILLION GALLONS OR 43.8 PER CENT OF THEIR TOTAL CAPACITY. AT THE SAME TIME LAST YEAR THE STORAGE WAS 53,262 MILLION GALLONS OR 79.1
PER CENT OF TOTAL CAPACITY.
0
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
TIPS ON PERSONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE -CHOLERA WATCH STEPPED UP
******
THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT ADVISED TODAY THAT WITH THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE CHOLERA SEASON, PERSONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANLINESS WERE ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL IN PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF THE DISEASE.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID PRIMARY PROTECTION DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS MEANT CLEAN FOOD, CLEAN WATER, THE WASHING OF HANDS BEFORE MEALS AND AFTER VISITS TO THE TOILET IN ADDITION TO OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH MEASURES.
WITH CHOLERA ALREADY IN EVIDENCE IN MANY TERRITORIES IN THE ASIAN REGION, THE DEPARTMENT IS INTENSIFYING ALL PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT AS WELL AS OTHERS WHICH ARE BEING INSTITUTED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID AIRCRAFTS AND VESSELS COMING FROM INFECTED AREAS ARE INSPECTED AND PASSENGERS WILL BE PUT UNDER SURVEILLANCE AT THE DISCRETION OF THE PORT HEALTH OFFICERS.
ALL EATABLE ARRIVING FROM INFECTED TERRITORIES, SUCH AS FRUIT, ARE ALREADY BEING CAREFULLY SCRUITINISED BY HEALTH INSPECTORS, AND REGULAR INSPECTION OF FOOD STALLS AND RESTAURANTS WILL BE STEPPED UP TO ENSURE A HIGH STANDARD OF FOOD HYGIENE.
IN ADDITION, THE TESTING OF NIGHT SOIL AND STOOL CULTURES, AND SAMPLES OF ALL CASES OF DIARRHOEA WILL CONTINUE SO THAT ANY SUSPECTED CASE OF CHOLERA WHICH COMES TO LIGHT WOULD BE IMMEDIATELY ISOLATED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THERE IS SUFFICIENT STOCK OF ANTI-CHOLERA VACCINE FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT IT, AND ISOLATION FACILITIES ARE ADEQUATE TO DEAL WITH AN EMERGENCY SITUATION.
HE SAID THE PUBLIC MUST REALISE THAT ANTI-CHOLERA VACCINE BY ITSELF WOULD ONLY GIVE PARTIAL PROTECTION INDIVIDUALLY AND INOCULATION AGAINST CHOLERA IS AN ADJUVANT MEASURE TO THE MUCH MORE IMPORTANT ENVIRONMENTAL AND PERSONAL HEALTH MEASURES WHICH ARE EFFECTIVE IN PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF THE DISEASE.
HE EXPLAINED THAT IN COMPLIANCE WITH A RESOLUTION OF THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION, CHOLERA CERTIFICATES HAVE NOT BEEN REQUIRED TO EE PRODUCED.BY TRAVELLERS ENTERING MANY COUNTRIES SINCE 1974 AND HONG KONG IS NO EXCEPTION.
THE REASON IS THAT FROM EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCES IN ALL COUNTRIES INFECTED BY CHOLERA AT ONE TIME OR ANOTHER, IT HAS BEEN FOUND THAT INOCOLATION AGAINST CHOLERA AND VALID CERTIFICATIONS TO THIS EFFECT HAS NOT OVER THE YEARS PREVENTED THE INTER-COUNTRY SPREAD OF THE DISEASE NOR THE ENTRY OF IT INTO ANY COUNTRY.
/WHILE THE
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
6
WHILE THE INOCULATION IS USEFUL AS AN ADJUVANT MEASURE IN CONFERRING SOME DEGREE OF PERSONAL PROTECTION TO INDIVIDUALS, THE MUCH MORE EFFECTIVE AND ESSENTIAL MEASURES ARE THOSE IN REGARD TO PERSONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE, WHICH, IF PROPERLY CARRIED OUT, CAN PREVENT THE SPREAD OF THE DISEASE WITHIN THE COUNTRY EVEN IF THE DISEASE HAS ALREADY BEEN INTRODUCED FROM OUTSIDE.
THEREFORE, PERSONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANLINESS IS ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL IF THE DISEASE IS TO BE CONTROLLED WITHIN HONG KONG AND THE INDIVIDUALS IN THE COMMUNITY BE PROTECTED FROM CONTRACTING THE DISEASE.
HE URGED THE PUBLIC TO BE EXTRA CAUTIOUS IN THEIR CHOICE OF FOOD AND DRINK AS CHOLERA IS SPREAD THROUGH CONTAMINATION OF FOOD AND WATER.
+ IMPROPERLY COOKED FOOD CAN CAUSE INFECTION, WHILE PROPERLY COOKED FOOD CANNOT. THEREFORE, ALL TYPES OF FOOD MUST BE THOROUGHLY COOKED AND IF IT IS NOT TAKEN IMMEDIATELY IT SHOULD NOT BE LEFT IN THE OPEN AND EXPOSED TO CONTAMINATION,* HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO ADVISED THE PUBLIC TO BOIL WATER BEFORE DRINKING, PARTICULARLY DURING THE WATER RESTRICTION PERIOD WHEN WATER HAS TO BE STORED IN CONTAINERS WHICH ARE SUBJECT TO CONTAMINATION.
THE SPOKESMAN REPEATED THAT ALTHOUGH THERE HAS BEEN NO LOCAL CASE OF CHOLERA SINCE 1969 THE PUBLIC MUST NOT BE TEMPTED TO RELAX THE PREVENTIVE MEASURES.
HE EXPLAINED THAT THESE PROTECTIVE MEASURES ARE EFFECTIVE NOT ONLY AGAINST CHOLERA BUT OTHER INTESTINAL DISEASES SUCH AS TYPHOID AND DYSENTERY.
+PEOPLE GET CHOLERA BY TAKING IN THE VIBRO CARRIED FROM THE WASTE OF INFECTIOUS PERSONS TO EXPOSED FOOD AND WATER, AND FLIES AID IN THE SPREAD OF THE DISEASE.*
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/7
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
7
MEETING THE NEEDS OF THE AGED
******
HONG KONG’S GROWING SOCIAL NEED TO PROVIDE FOR THE OLD CAN ONLY EE MET BY THE COMBINED EFFORT OF GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE ORGANISATIONS, THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES, SAID THIS TODAY AT AN INAUGURATION CEREMONY OF THE CHUNG SHAK HEI (CHEUNG CHAU) HOME FOR THE AGED HELD AT THE CITY HALL RESTAURANT.
HE POINTED OUT THAT WITH IMPROVED MEDICAL FACILITIES AND SOCIAL STABILITY, THERE WAS A GENERAL TREND FOR PEOPLE TO LIVE LONGER.
THIS IS PARTICULARLY TRUE IN HONG KONG, HE ADDED.
+IN THE 1971 CENSUS, THERE WERE 103,912 PEOPLE WHO WERE MORE THAN 70 YEARS OLD. THIS REPRESENTED 2.6 PER CENT OF THE THEN TOTAL POPULATION.
♦ THE 1976 BY-CENSUS REVEALED THAT THERE WERE 142,500 PEOPLE WHO WERE MORE THAN 70 YEARS OLD, WHICH IS 3.3 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL POPULATION,+ HE SAID.
MR. AKERS-JONES SAID HE WAS IMPRESSED BY THE WORK OF THE CHUNG SHAK HEI HOME FOR THE AGED - ONE OF THE WELFARE INSTITUTIONS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES IN WHICH LOCAL PEOPLE JOIN HAND-IN-HAND WITH PEOPLE FROM URBAN HONG KONG.
+1 UNDERSTAND THAT SOME NEW MEASURES LIKE ORGANISED VISITS FROM YOUTH SERVICES GROUPS AND BIRTHDAY PARTIES HAVE BEEN ARRANGED FOR THE RESIDENTS IN THIS HOME.
+1 APPRECIATE THESE NEW EFFORTS WHICH HELP, ONE WAY OR ANOTHER, TO BRING VARIETY AND HAPPINESS INTO THE LIVES OF THOSE IN THE HOME,+ HE SAID.
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/8......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
- 8 -
VEGETABLE FARMERS TO VISIT BRITISH AGRICULTURE ******
FIVE SENIOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS OF THE FEDERATION OF VEGETABLE MARKETING CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES HEADED BY ITS CHAIRMAN, MR. KO HOK, WILL VISIT THE UNITED KINGDOM AT THE END OF THIS MONTH FOR TWO WEEKS.
THEY LEAVE HONG KONG ON JUNE 30 AND WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY MR. CHAU TUNG-CHUEN, SENIOR AGRICULTURAL OFFICER OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT.
THE VISIT IS SPONSORED BY THE VEGETABLE MARKETING ORGANISATION TO GIVE MEMBERS OF THE GROUP AN OPPORTUNITY TO SEE BRITISH AGRICULTURE AND THE MARKETING OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE AT FIRST HAND, AND TO MAKE CONTACT WITH COMPANIES IN THE FIELD OF AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRIES.
THE GROUP WILL VISIT THE ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SHOW NEAR KENILWORTH- THE ESTATES OF THE LAND SETTLEMENT ASSOCIATION AT FULNEY IN LINCOLNSHIRE- THE MARKET GARDENING INDUSTRIES AT THE FENS- THE NEW CONVENT GARDEN MARKET IN LONDON AND THE LANDMASTER MANUFACTURER AT POOLE.
NOTE TO EDITORS :
MR. E.H. NICHOLS, DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, WILL PRESENT A GOODWILL BANNER TO THE GROUP OF VEGETABLE FARMERS WHO WILL VISIT UK AGRICULTURE FOR TWO WEEKS.
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY WHICH WILL BE HELD AT 12.45 P.M. TOMORROW (THURSDAY) AT THE GOOD DATES RESTAURANT, WATERLOO ROAD.
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/9......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
9
GOVERNOR VISITS TEXTILE MILL
* * X *
THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, WILL BE MAKING ANOTHER OF HIS PERIODIC VISITS TO HONG KONG FACTORIES TOMORROW (THURSDAY) TO SEE FOR HIMSELF PROGRESS MADE BY LOCAL INDUSTRY, AS WELL AS TO LEARN AT FIRST HAND SOME OF THE PROBLEMS INDUSTRIALISTS MAY BE FACING CURRENTLY.
TOMORROW’S VISIT IS TO THE CENTRAL TEXTILES (HK) LTD. AT NOS. 8-14 SHA TSUI ROAD, TSUEN WAN.
SIR MURRAY WILL BE ACCOMPANIED ON THE VISIT BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, MR. ALEC PURVES, AND PRINCIPAL TRADE OFFICER, MR. NICHOLAS YEK.
THEY WILL BE MET AT THE FACTORY BY THE MANAGING DIRECTOR, MR. VINCENT WOO VEN-CHENG- THE DIRECTOR, MR. HERBERT WOO- THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MR. WANG CHIH-HWA AND OTHER COMPANY OFFICIALS.
SIR MURRAY WILL ARRIVE AT 10 A.M. AND WILL SPEND ABOUT AN HOUR THERE.
CENTRAL TEXTILES (HK) LTD. IS A PRIVATE LIMITED COMPANY FORMED IN 1950 AND IS PRIMARILY A SPINNING AND WEAVING MILL.
ITS PRODUCTION CAPACITY IS 2,770,000 LBS OF YARN AND 1,090,000 SQUARE YARDS OF FABRICS PER MONTH. IT EMPLOYS OVER 1,440 WORKERS. ABOUT 80 PER CENT OF ITS PRODUCTS ARE SOLD LOCALLY AND 20 PER CENT IS EXPORTED TO AUSTRALIA AND BRITAIN.
AT THE END OF LAST YEAR, THE HONG KONG SPINNING AND WEAVING INDUSTRY EMPLOYED MORE THAN 57,000 WORKERS REPRESENTING ABOUT 7 PER CENT OF THE LABOUR FORCE, AND TOTAL EXPORTS AMOUNTED TO OVER 33,000 MILLION OR 9 PER CENT OF HONG KONG’S DOMESTIC EXPORTS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHER TQ COVER THE VISIT. A 14-SEATER VAN (AM 2192) iUL_ TAKE MEMBERS OF THE' PRESS TO THE FACTORY. IT LEAVES THE KOWLOON SUB-POOL AT 9 A.M. A GIS OFFICER WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST YOUR REPRESENTATIVE. THE VAN LEAVES AT 9 A.M. SHARP AND YOUR REPRESENTATIVE IS URGED TO ARRIVE AT THE SUB-POOL A FEW MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE TIME.
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/1O......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
- 10 -
LABOUR COMMISSIONER VISITS HIGH ISLAND
******
THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR. PETER WILLIAMS, SPENT THE WHOLE DAY TODAY (WEDNESDAY) VISITING THE HIGH ISLAND RESERVOIR PROJECT IN HIS ROLE AS COMMISSIONER OF MINES.
HE WAS ACCOMPANIED BY THE CHIEF EXPLOSIVE OFFICER, MR. GEORGE RANSON.
DURING HIS VISIT, THE COMMISSIONER INSPECTED THE HUGE FLOATING MAGAZINE MOORED AT SAI WAN TSUI WHICH SERVED AS A STORE FOR MUCH OF THE EXPLOSIVE USED IN THE RESERVOIR PROJECT.
HE ALSO VISITED THE PLANT AREA OF AN OVERSEAS BASED EXPLOSIVE SUPPLY COMPANY.
THIS COMPANY MANUFACTURES A NEW SLURRY EXPLOSIVE WHICH HAVE BEEN EXTENSIVELY USED IN THE HIGH ISLAND PROJECT QUARRY.
THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS IS A UNIQUE ONE WHEREBY ALL THE NON-EXPLOSIVE INGREDIENTS ARE LOADED ONTO SPECIALLY DESIGNED TRUCKS WHICH DELIVER THEM TO THE BLAST SITE, THEN MIX THEM INSIDE THE VEHICLE BEFORE PUMPING THE MIXTURE INTO THE PRE-DRILLED BLAST HOLES.
OVER 3,030 TONS OF THESE EXPLOSIVES WILL HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED AND USED BEFORE THE HIGH ISLAND PROJECT IS COMPLETED SOMETIME NEXT YEAR.
MR. WILLIAMS ALSO MET THE SENIOR RESIDENT ENGINEER, MR. A. PRYOR AND WAS LATER CONDUCTED ON A TOUR -OF THE PROJECT BY MR. R. JONaS, THE QUARRY ENGINEER.
/11 .....
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 1977
11
GOVERNOR TO ATTEND CAS ANNIVERSARY DINNER M * * * * *
THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, WILL BE THE GUEST OF HONOUR AT THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER PARTY TO BE GIVEN BY THE
CIVIL AID SERVICES AT THE CITY HALL
RESTAURANT ON FRIDAY
(JUNE 24).
ABOUT 680 OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF C.A.S. WILL ATTEND.
AMONG OTHER GUESTS WILL BE MR. LEWIS DAVIS, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY- DR. K.L. THONG, DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES- MR. BRIAN SLEVIN, COMMISSIONER OF POLICE AND MR. A.D.A. HONLEY, GROUP CAPTAIN OF R.A.F.
SIR MURRAY WILL BE MET ON ARRIVAL AT 7.30 P.M. BY THE C.A.S. COMMISSIONER, MR. P.C. WOO, AND THE CHIEF STAFF OFFICER, MR. J.A. FORTUNE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MEDIA ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT FROM 7 P.M. TO 8 P.M. THOSE COVERING THE EVENT ARE ASKED TO DO SO ON THE GROUND FLOOR OR THE EXHIBITION HALL OF THE CITY HALL. NO PHOTOGRAPHS WILL BE ALLOWED DURING DINNER IN THE DINING HALL AFTER 8 P.M.
COPIES OF THE C.A.S. COMMISSIONER’S SPEECH WILL BE AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS OF THE PRESS AT 7 P.M. ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE CITY HALL.
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IgisI liM
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
MORE RAIN NEEDED TO STAVE OFF FURTHER RESTRICTIONS . 1
CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES FOR MAY ..................... 2
SURVEY OF OPTOMETRIST STANDARDS .................... 2
TOURISTS GIVEN SAVE WATER MESSAGE .................. 3
NTA PRINCIPAL LAND AGENT RETIRES ................... 4
FIXED PITCH HAWKING IN CLEVERLY STREET ............. 5
APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR YOUTH WORK CAMP ........... 5
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 1977
1
A LOT MORE RAIN NEEDED TO STAVE OFP FURTHER RESTRICTIONS
* * * * *
THE RAIN OF THE PAST 24 HOURS HAS ADDED 389 MILLION GALLONS TO HONG KONG’S DEPLETED WATER RESERVES - THE EQUIVALENT OF ABOUT ONE-AND-A-HALF DAY’S CONSUMPTION.
THE PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT aATER ENGINEER, MR. TON TOMLINSON, SAID TODAY THAT IN THE 24 HOURS UP TO 9 O’CLOCK THIS MORNING THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY HAD RECORDED ABOUT 83 MM OF RAIN.
+ THE SAME AMOUNT FELL ON PLOVER COVE CATCHMENT,* HE SAID, +BUT UNFORTUNATELY TWO OF THE OTHER BIGGEST RESERVOIRS - SHEK PIK ON LANTAU AND TAI LAM CHUNG IN THE NEW TERRITORIES - RECORDED LESS THAN A QUARTER OF THIS AMOUNT.+
MR. TOMLINSON SAID THAT SINCE WATER RESTRICTIONS WERE INTRODUCED ON JUNE 1, THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY HAD RECORDED A TOTAL OF 167.9 MM OF RAIN, AND THIS HAD PRODUCED A YIELD OF ABOUT 1333 MILLION GALLONS.
+THIS IS NOT MUCH MORE THAN FOUR DAYS’ CONSUMPTION UNDER THE PRESENT RESTRICTIONS ON SUPPLY,* HE SAID.
AT 9 O’CLOCK THIS MORNING THE WATER SUPPLY DEPARTMENT’S 17 RESERVOIRS HELD A TOTAL OF 29,761 MILLION GALLONS, '.vHICH IS 44.2 PER CENT OF THEIR TOTAL CAPACITY.
+WE’RE GOING TO NEED A LOT MORE WATER IN STORAGE THAN THIS IF WE ARE TO STAVE OFF FURTHER RESTRICTIONS,* HE SAID.
MR. TOMLINSON SAID THAT AT THE SAME TIME LAST YEAR THE AMOUNT OF WATER IN STORAGE HAD BEEN 53,243 MILLION GALLONS -OR 79.1 PER CENT OF TOTAL CAPACITY.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 1977
2
CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES FOR MAY DROP * * * *
THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) AND CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (B) FOR ■'•'.AY WERE 115 AND 116 - A DROP OF 2 ?OINTS AND 1 POINT RESPECTIVELY.
INDEX (A) IS BASED ON THE EXPENDITURE OF HOUSEHOLDS SPENDING BETWEEN ADD-.: 1,499 A MONTH IN THE HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE SURVEY, 1973/74 AND INDEX (E) IS DERIVED FROM THE EXPENDITURE OF HOUSEHOLDS SPENDING BETWEEN 01,5OO-S2,999 A MONTH IN THE HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE SURVEY, 1973/74.
THE INDEX FOR FOODSTUFFS NAS 3 POINTS LOWER THAN THAT FOR THE PREVIOUS MONTH IN BOTH INDEXES (A) AND (B). REDUCTIONS IN AVERAGE RETAIL PRICES OF FRESH ■.-.ATER FISH, PORK AND FRESH VEGETABLES MORE THAN OFFSET RISES FOR MEALS BOUGHT AWAY FROM HOME AND FOR SALT WATER FISH.
INCREASES OF 1 POINT EACH WERE RECORDED IN THE INDEXES FOR ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO, AND CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR IN BOTH INDEXES (A) AND (E) BECAUSE OF HIGHER PRICES FOR CHINESE WINES, IMPORTED CIGARETTES AND SONE OUTERCLOTHING ITEMS. THE INDEX FOR SERVICES IN INDEX (D) '..ENT UP BY 1 POINT FOLLOWING HIGHER CHARGES FOR CINEMA ENTERTAINMENT, DOMESTIC HELP AND HAIRDRESSING.
PRICE MOVEMENTS IN OTHER COMMODITY SECTIONS WERE INSIGNIFICANT.
SURVEY OF OPTICIANS AND
******
OPTOMETRISTS
HAS URGED THOSE WHO ARE
THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT
EITHER ENGAGED OR EMPLOYED IN OPTOMETRY OR OPTICAL FIRMS AND HAD NOT YET RETURNED COMPLETED QUESTIONNAIRES SENT TO THEM.
LAST YEAR TO DO SC NOW.
THEY SHOULD SEND THEM TO THE SECRETARY BONAVENTURE HOUSE, °1, LEIGHTON ROAD, THIRD THAN AUGUST 1.
(BOARDS) AT FLOOR, NOT LATER
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT SAID THE QUESTIONNAIRES WERE SENT OUT IN 1976 TO ALL OPTOMETRISTS AND OPTICAL FIRMS TO ASSESS EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS, LINGUISTIC ABILITY, PROFESSIONAL TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE OF THOSE EMPLOYED IN THIS FIELD.
----o----
i i i ■ ) ; • »<].•
THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 1977
- 3 -
TOURISTS ASKED TO SAVE THEIR BIT ******
IN VIEW OF THE CURRENT WATER SHORTAGE TOURISTS ARE ALSO URGED TO ECONOMISE ON WATER CONSUMPTION DURING THEIR STAY.
THE HONG KONG HOTELS ASSOCIATION HAS TAKEN POSITIVE STEPS TO CHANNEL THE SAVE WATER MESSAGE TO TOURISTS.
APART FROM POSTERS AND STICKERS WHICH HAD BEEN PUT UP IN APPROPRIATE PLACES IN VARIOUS HOTELS, THE GOVERNMENT HAD PREPARED SPECIAL DISPLAY CARDS IN FOLDERS CONTAINING HELPFUL HINTS ON WAYS TO CONSERVE WATER AS AN EFFORT TO COMPLEMENT THE ASSOCIATION’S VOLUNTARY MOVE.
WITH THE MESSAGE IN CHINESE, ENGLISH AND JAPANESE PRINTED IN SHADES OF BLUE, THESE DISPLAY CARDS FOR HOTEL GUESTS WOULD SERVE TO ALERT TOURISTS TO HONG KONG’S CURRENT WATER SHORTAGE, THE HOURS OF RESTRICTION AND AT THE SAME TIME SOLICIT THEIR CO-OPERATION AND UNDERSTANDING.
ILLUSTRATED BY CARTOON DRAWINGS, THE FOUR MAJOR SAVE WATER TIPS INCORPORATED IN THE FOLDER WOULD AIM AT ASKING HOTEL GUESTS TO TAKE A SHOWER RATHER THAN A BATH, NOT TO LEAVE THE TAP RUNNING WHILE WASHING THEIR HANDS AND CLEANING THEIR TEETH, TO SAVE UP THEIR SMALLS FOR A BIGGER WASH AND TO ENSURE THAT THEY TURN OFF TAPS IMMEDIATELY AFTER USE.
ANOTHER STOCK OF 300,000 CARDS BEARING A GENERAL SAVE-WATER MESSAGE ALSO IN CHINESE, ENGLISH AND JAPANESE WOULD BE HANDED OUT TO VISITORS ARRIVING AT KAI TAK AIRPORT VIA THE IMMIGRATION COUNTERS.
AS ARRIVALS AT KAI TAK WOULD PROBABLY KNOW NOTHING ABOUT OUR WATER SITUATION, THESE CARDS WOULD EXPLAIN TO THEM WHY WATER RESTRICTION HAD BEEN IMPOSED IN HONG KONG, AND THAT THEIR CO-OPERATION WITH OUR COMMUNITY WOULD BE ESSENTIAL.
0 --------
A
THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 1977
- 4 -
GOVERNMENT LAND AGENT RETIRES * * * *
MR. DENNIS JOHNSTON, PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT LAND AGENT OF THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, IS TO RETIRE AFTER 18 YEARS SERVICE WITH THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT.
ABOUT 100 OF HIS COLLEAGUES FROM THE NTA HEADQUARTERS AND THE SEVEN DISTRICTS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES GATHERED AT THE ADMINISTRATION’S HEADQUARTERS TODAY (THURSDAY) TO GIVE HIM A FAREWELL.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR. DAVID AKERS-JONES PRESENTED MR. JOHNSTON WITH A ROSEWOOD SERVING TROLLEY AS A FAREWELL GIFT FROM HIS NTA COLLEAGUES.
MR. JOHNSTON - WHOSE CAREER IN GOVERNMENT IN HONG KONG AND ELSEWHERE SPANS 27 YEARS - WILL START PRE-RETIREMENT LEAVE TOMORROW (JUNE 24).
MR. JOHNSTON FIRST CAME TO HONG KONG IN 1946 WITH THE ROYAL NAVY. HE SPENT HIS NAVAL SERVICE IN THE FAR EAST.
HE RETURNED TO HONG KONG IN 1959 AND JOINED THE CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY DEPARTMENT AS AN ESTATE SURVEYOR AND BECAME CLOSELY INVOLVED WITH THE INDUSTRIAL AND RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OF KOWLOON, PARTICULARLY IN KWUN TONG.
FROM 1963 TO 1966, HE WORKED AS A PLANNING OFFICER AND SENIOR PLANNING OFFICER ON PROGRAMMES IN BOTH THE URBAN AREAS OF HONG KONG AND KOWLOON AND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
AFTER THESE, HE SPENT FOUR YEARS AS SENIOR ESTATE SURVEYOR IN THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE AND BECAME INVOLVED IN THE INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT OF KWAI CHUNG AND TSING Yl. HE WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE SETTING UP AND ESTABLISHMENT OF THE KWAI CHUNG CONTAINER TERMINALS.
IN 1970 HE RETURNED TO THE CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY DEPARTMENT AS A CHIEF ESTATE SURVEYOR AND WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE LAND SALE PROGRAMME INVOLVING LARGE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE CENTRAL AREAS OF HONG KONG ISLAND AND KOWLOON.
HE CAME BACK TO THE NTA IN 1973 TO HEAD ITS LANDS DIVISION AND WAS APPOINTED PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT LAND AGENT WHEN THE POST WAS UPGRADED LAST YEAR.
IN THE LAST FOUR YEARS, HE HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE NEW TOWNS AND THE MARKET TOWNS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES, AND A NUMBER OF LARGE PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS, AND WITH THE SETTING UP OF THE INDUSTRIAL ESTATES AT TAI PO AND YUEN LONG.
OUTSIDE OF HIS CAREER, MR. JOHNSTON IS WIDELY KNOWN FOR HIS ACTIVE INVOLVEMENT IN RUGBY, THE ROUND TABLE AND THE MARINE POLICE.
HE WILL BE SUCCEEDED AT THE NTA BY MR. P.A. WARD, WHO WAS FORMERLY GOVERNMENT LAND AGENT (VALUATION) IN THE LANDS AND SURVEY DEPARTMENT OF THE PWD.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 1977
- 5
NEW HAWKER PERMITTED AREAS IN SHEUNG WAN
* * * *
FIXED PITCH HAWKING WILL BE PERMITTED IN CLEVERLY STREET, SHEUNG WAN, FROM MONDAY (JUNE 27).
THIS WILL ENABLE SEVEN LICENSED FIXED PITCH HAWKERS TO TRADE IN THE AREA WHICH EXTENDS TO THE SECTION BETWEEN WING LOK STREET AND BONHAM STRAND EAST.
THE DECLARATION OF THE HAWKER PERMITTED AREA IS MADE BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT UNDER A SECTION OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND URBAN SERVICES ORDINANCE.
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WORK CAMP FOR YOUTH
******
THE AK INALL IANCE, A YOUTH GROUP SPONSORED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT’S YOUTH WORK UNIT, WILL ORGANISE TWO WORK CAMPS AT PING SHAN CHILDREN’S HOME NEXT MONTH.
THE TWO FIVE-DAY CAMPS, STARTING FROM JULY 23 AND
JULY 27, AIM TO HELP THE YOUNG PARTICIPANTS TO MAKE CONSTRUCTIVE USE OF THEIR SUMMER VACATION.
THEY WILL HELP IN RENOVATING THE CHILDREN’S HOME AND ORGANISE ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMMES FOR THE CHILDREN.
EACH PARTICIPANT WILL BE CHARGED 520 FOR FOOD AND TRAVELLING EXPENSES.
THOSE INTERESTED IN TAKING PART IN THE CAMP ARE ASKED
TO APPLY AT THE YOUTH WORK UNIT AT THE KOWLOON CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 405, NATHAN ROAD, YAU MA TEI, KOWLOON.
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PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
QUEEN’S GALLANTRY MEDAL - THE FIRST EVER TO BE AWARDED IN HK ..................................... 1
PROPOSED CLOSURE OF ROAD IN TUEN MUN ....................... 2
WATER STORAGE LEVEL STILL FALLING ................... 3
YOUTH QUIZ COMPETITION ENTERS FINALS ....................... 4
DUKE OF KENT PRAISES HONG KONG’S ACHIEVEMENTS .............. 5
FOUR LOTS OF LAND FOR SALE NEXT MONTH ...................... 6
GOVERNOR PAYS TRIBUTE TO CAS AND ITS COMMISSIONER .......... 7
THREE HUNG HOM CARPARK FLOORS TO BE CONVERTED INTO SPORTS CENTRE .............................................. 8
FIRING PRACTICE ............................................ 9
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 1977
1
QUEEN’S GALLANTRY AWARD * * * *
A SALESMAN AND A POLICE CONSTABLE HAVE BEEN AWARDED THE QUEEN’S GALLANTRY MEDAL, THE FIRST EVER TO BE GIVEN IN HONG KONG, AND THE QUEEN’S COMMENDATION FOR BRAVE CONDUCT RESPECTIVELY, IT WAS ANNOUNCED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY.
THE AWARDEES ARE MR. YIP LONG-PING, AGED 24, AND POLICE CONSTABLE LO YIN-HOK, AGED 22.
MR. YIP’S BRAVERY HAS BEEN RECOGNISED FOLLOWING A ROBBERY INCIDENT THAT OCCURRED IN A CHEUNG SHA WAN GOLDSMITH’S SHOP ON JUNE 22, 1976 DURING WHICH HE WAS SHOT IN THE ABDOMEN.
AT ABOUT 4.40 P.M. ON THAT DAY, THREE MEN ENTERED THE GOLDSMITH’S SHOP. ONE, ARMED WITH A REVOLVER, GRABBED AN EMPLOYEE WHILE THE OTHERS BEGAN SMASHING THE GLASS DISPLAY COUNTERS WITH HAMMERS.
MR. YIP, WHO WAS IN THE SHOP WITH HIS BROTHER, GRABBED A MELON KNIFE FROM UNDER THE COUNTER AND RAN INTO THE MIDDLE OF THE SHOP, INTENDING TO ATTACK THE MAN HOLDING THE REVOLVER.
HIS BROTHER, MR. YIP BOR-PING, SOUNDED THE BURGLAR ALARM, PICKED UP A STOOL AND ALSO JOINED IN THE RESISTANCE.
THE ARMED ROBBER FIRED THREE SHOTS, ONE OF THEM HITTING MR. YIP LONG-PING IN THE ABDOMEN. DURING THE MELEE HE ALSO MANAGED TO WOUND THE GUNMAN IN THE HAND, BEFORE THEY ALL RAN FROM THE PREMISES.
THOUGH WOUNDED, MR. YIP PERSUED ONE OF THEM ALONG CHEUNG SHA WAN ROAD INTO APLIU STREET, BUT WAS NOT ABLE TO APPREHEND THE MAN BECAUSE OF THE EFFECTS OF THE WOUND.
FOUR MEN HAVE SINCE BEEN ARRESTED BY THE POLICE AND A .22 REVOLVER AND AMMUNITION RECOVERED. THEY HAVE ALL BEEN CHARGED WITH VARIOUS OFFENCES.
MR. YIP WAS IN HOSPITAL FOR OVER TWO WEEKS DURING WHICH TIME A BULLET WAS REMOVED FROM HIS ABDOMEN. NO PERMANENT INCAPACITY IS EXPECTED.
THE OTHER INCIDENT INVOLVING POLICE CONSTABLE LO YIN-HOK HAPPENED ON MARCH 24, 1976.
CONSTABLE LO, WHO JOINED THE FORCE IN JANUARY 1974, WAS ON PATROL DUTY IN UNIFORM AT ABOUT 2 P.M. AT THE JUNCTION OF LOK SHAN ROAD AND YUK YAT STREET WHEN HE WAS ATTACKED BY TWO YOUNG MEN.
ONE GRABBED HIM AROUND THE NECK FROM BEHIND WHILE THE OTHER, ARMED WITH A KNIFE, ATTACKED HIM FROM THE FRONT AND SEIZED HIS REVOLVER, CUTTING THE LANYARD WITH THE KNIFE.
/CONSTABLE .....
FRIWt, JUNE 24, 1977
2
CONSTABLE LO STRUGGLED VIOLENTLY WITH THE MAN HOLDING HIM AND MANAGED TO PUNCH THE MAN WITH THE REVOLVER. THIS MAN STRUCK CONSTABLE LO ON THE HEAD WITH THE REVOLVER CAUSING THE CYLINDER TO OPEN, AND ALL BUT ONE ROUND OF AMMUNITION TO SCATTER ON THE GROUND. AT THAT TIME NO ONE KNEW HOW MANY ROUNDS WERE LEFT IN THE REVOLVER.
HIS ATTACKER THEN CLOSED THE CYLINDER, POINTED THE REVOLVER AT CONSTABLE LO AND PULLED THE TRIGGER. FORTUNATELY THE GUN DID NOT FIRE, ALTHOUGH THERE WAS ONE ROUND LEFT IN THE CYLINDER.
AT THIS TIME BOTH MEN RAN OFF AND CONSTABLE LO CHASED AFTER THE ONE WITH THE REVOLVER. AFTER PERSUING HIM FOR ABOUT 600 YARDS THE MAN BOARDED A PUBLIC LIGHT BUS. CONSTABLE LO SEIZED THE MAN AT THE SAME TIME STRIKING HIM WITH THE TRUNCHEON. A VIOLENT STRUGGLE THEN ENSUED. OTHER OFFICERS ARRIVED AND THE MAN WAS OVERPOWERED AND ARRESTED.
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PROPOSED CLOSURE * *
OF ROAD IN TUEN MUN * * * *
AS PART OF THE P.W.D.’S NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT AT TUEN MUN, PROPOSALS TO EXTEND TSUN WEN ROAD FROM THE INDUSTRIAL AREA, AREA 9, NORTHWARDS TO THE TAI HING PUBLIC ESTATE, AND TO CONNECT KIN YICK STREET TO THE EXISTING UN-NAMED ROAD ADJACENT TO THE TAI HING COTTON MILL ARE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY.
THE PROPOSALS ALSO INCLUDE THE FORMATION OF ADDITIONAL INDUSTRIAL LAND AND ROADS IN AND AROUND SAN CHING ROAD.
BECAUSE OF THESE WORKS IT WOULD BE NECESSARY TO CLOSE PART OF SAN CHING ROAD AND PART OF THE UN-NAMED ROAD ADJACENT TO THE TAI HING COTTON MILL.
A P.W.D. SPOKESMAN SAID EXISTING ACCESS THROUGH THE UN-NAMED ROAD WOULD BE MAINTAINED UNTIL THE COMPLETION OF ALTERNATIVE ACCESS THROUGH KIN YICK STREET.
WITH THE FORMATION OF THE AREA TO THE NORTH AND WEST OF KIN YICK STREET, THE EXISTING ACCESS THROUGH SAN CHING ROAD TO THAT AREA WOULD NO LONGER BE REQUIRED, HE ADDED.
THE EXTENT OF THE CLOSURES ARE GIVEN IN A NOTIFICATION IN THE GAZETTE. ANY PERSONS WHO HAVE OBJECTIONS TO THE PROPOSALS OR ANY CLAIM OF PRIVATE RIGHT SHOULD SUBMIT THEM IN WRITING TO THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS NOT LATER THAN JULY 24 OR AUGUST 24, RESPECTIVELY.
THE NOTICE (BOTH IN ENGLISH AND CHINESE) CAN ALSO BE SEEN OK THE NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITE AND THE PLAN CAN BE SEEN AT THE CITY DISTRICT OFFICES (CENTRAL AND WESTERN) ENQUIRY BRANCH, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, WEST WING ENTRANCE, OR AT THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, FOURTH FLOOR, 101 PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD, KOWLOON OR AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE, TUEN MUN, +TOP COURT*, TAK CHING COURT, TUEN MUN.
. ... 0 - - - - /3 ...
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 1977
- 3 -
WATER STORAGE LEVEL STILL FALLING
* * * * *
THE P.W.D.’S DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES, MR. WILLIAM TUCKER, SAID TODAY THAT HONG KONG’S WATER STORAGE HAD FALLEN BY MORE THAN 1,730 MILLION GALLONS SINCE THE CURRENT WATER RESTRICTIONS CAME INTO EFFECT ON JUNE 1.
AT THE BEGINNING OF JUNE, HE SAID, THE RESERVOIRS HELD 31,488 MILLION GALLONS OR 46.8 PER CENT OF THEIR TOTAL CAPACITY.
BY NINE O’CLOCK THIS MORNING STORAGE WAS DOWN TO 29,733 MILLION GALLONS -- ONLY 44.2 PER CENT OF TOTAL CAPACITY.
AT THIS TIME LAST YEAR STORAGE WAS 53,168 MILLION GALLONS, OR 79 PER CENT OF TOTAL CAPACITY.
MR. TUCKER SAID THAT ALTHOUGH MORE THAN 139.2 MM OF RAIN HAD FALLEN DURING THE PAST FIVE DAYS, WATER STORAGE LEVELS REMAINED FAR BELOW THOSE EXPECTED AT THIS TIME OF THE YEAR, WHEN STORAGE SHOULD BE GROWING SHARPLY.
IN FACT THEY WERE GETTING INCREASINGLY BELOW THE 33,405 MILLION GALLONS WHICH WERE IN THE RESERVOIRS ON OCTOBER 9, 1974 WHEN HONG KONG LAST BEGAN A 10-H0UR WATER SUPPLY.
MR. TUCKER SAID THAT ALTHOUGH THE +SAVE WATER DRIVER-APPEARED TO HAVE ACHIEVED ITS INITIAL A IM OF A TEN PER CENT SAVING IN CONSUMPTION, THE LACK OF USEFUL RAINFALL YIELD MEANT THE SITUATION WAS STEADILY GROWING WORSE.
HE URGED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO MAINTAIN THEIR EFFORTS TO CONSERVE WATER.
MR. TUCKER SAID: +THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT IS REVIEWING THE WATER SITUATION, AND WILL MAKE A RECOMMENDATION TO THE GOVERNMENT NEXT WEEK ON WHETHER OR NOT THERE IS A NEED TO IMPOSE FURTHER RESTRICTIONS.+
IN THE MEANTIME, HE AGAIN APPEALED TO THE MANAGEMENTS OF HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS TO ENSURE THAT THEIR INTERNAL PUMPING SYSTEMS ARE IN GOOD WORKING ORDER.
HE SAID SOME BUILDING MANAGEMENTS HAD APPARENTLY REMOVED SUCH SYSTEMS, WHICH WERE REQUIRED BY THE WATER AUTHORITY IN ORDER TO ENSURE THAT THE UPPER FLOORS WOULD STILL BE ABLE TO GET WATER WHEN MAINS PRESSURE WAS LOW — PARTICULARLY DURING TIMES OF WATER RESTRICTIONS.
/♦WITHOUT
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 1977
4
♦WITHOUT THE INTERNAL PUMPING SYSTEM,+ HE SAID, + THE OCCUPANTS OF THE BUILDINGS MIGHT SUFFER UNNECESSARY HARDSHIP DURING WATER RESTRICTIONS. AND THERE IS NOTHING WE CAN DO BECAUSE THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THESE INTERNAL SYSTEMS LIES ENTIRELY WITH THE BUILDING MANAGEMENTS.+
TURNING TO STORAGE TANKS ON THE ROOFS OF DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS, MR. TUCKER STRESSED THAT WATER FROM SUCH TANKS SHOULD NOT BE USED BY OCCUPANTS DURING THE HOURS WHEN MAINS SUPPLIES WERE CUT OFF.
♦MANAGEMENTS SHOULD ENSURE THAT RESPONSIBLE MEMBERS OF THEIR STAFF TURN OFF SUPPLIES FROM THESE TANKS DURING THE HOURS OF RESTR ICT IONS,+ HE SAID.
-.--0----
YOUTH QUIZ COMPETITION FINALS * * * *
NOTE TO EDITORS:
AN INTER-AGENCY YOUTH QUIZ COMPETITION JOINTLY ORGANISED BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG AND THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE WILL HOLD ITS FINAL ROUND THIS SUNDAY (JUNE 26) AT THE YMCA IN WATERLOO ROAD.
AT THE END OF THE CONTEST, RTHK CONTROLLER, RADIO PROGRAMMES, MR. KEN WARBURTON, WILL PRESENT PRIZES AND MR. Y.F. HUI, DIRECTOR OF THE HK COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE, WILL ADDRESS THE GATHERING.
THREE TEAMS WILL ENTER THE FINALS: YMCA (LAM TIN), CARITAS (TUNG TAU) AND CARITAS (CHEUNG CHAU).
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO COVER THE FINALS AND THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 3.15 P.M. AT THE YMCA HALL, 23 WATERLOO ROAD, KOWLOON,
/5 ..
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 1977
- 5 -
DUKE OF KENT PRAISED HONG KONG’S ACHIEVEMENTS ******
THE DUKE OF KENT PRAISED HONG K,ONG’S ACHIEVEMENTS AS SOMETHING +IMPOSSIBLE TO THINK OF A PARALLEL.*
HE WAS SPEAKING AS THE GUEST OF HONOUR AT THE FOURTH HONG KONG ASSOCIATION’S +DRAGON BOAT* DINNER IN LONDON’S SAVOY HOTEL YESTERDAY (THURSDAY).
AMONG THE 300 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS WERE MR. EVAN LUARD, PARLIAMENTARY UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE- MR. D.F. MURRAY, UNDER SECRETARY, FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE- SIR PETER CAREY, PERMANENT UNDER SECRETARY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRY-SIR PAUL BRYAN, CHAIRMAN OF THE ANGLO-HONG KONG PARLIAMENTARY GROUP- SIR ANTHONY ROYLE, MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT AND OTHER SENIOR BRITISH OFFICIALS, MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT AND LEADERS OF LONDON’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY.
HRH, WHO IS VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE BRITISH OVERSEAS TRADE BOARD, SAID: +S0 IN THE JUBILEE YEAR OF 1977 IT IS NOT INAPPROPRIATE TO CONGRATULATE THE PEOPLE AND THE GOVERNMENT OF HONG KONG ON THEIR ENERGY AND THEIR ENLIGHTENED POLICIES WHICH HAVE ACHIEVED THIS REMARKABLE RECORD. I DON’T DOUBT THAT IF WE EXAMINED THAT RECORD WE COULD FIND IN IT SOME PRETTY USEFUL LESSONS FOR OURSELVES,* THE DUKE SAID.
THE DUKE SAID THE EXTREMELY RAPID DEVELOPMENT IN HONG KONG SHOULD BE A MAGNET FOR BRITISH INDUSTRY, ESPECIALLY ON THE CAPITAL GOODS SIDE, AND HE HAD THE IMPRESSION THAT THERE REMAINED AN AMAZING DEGREE OF IGNORANCE AMONG BRITISH INDUSTRIALISTS AS TO THE OPPORTUNITIES HONG KONG OFFERED.
+WE INTEND TO TRY AND CORRECT THAT STATE OF AFFAIRS — IN A NUMBER OF WAYS. THE MOST SPECTACULAR IS A MAJOR EXHIBITION OF MACHINERY AND TECHNOLOGY WHICH THE BRITISH OVERSEAS TRADE BOARD PLANS TO MOUNT IN HONG KONG IN EARLY 1978 -- AND I AM GLAD TO SAY THAT THE RESPONSE TO THIS PLAN SO FAR HAS BEEN MOST ENCOURAGING.
+IF IT IS AT ALL POSSIBLE I HOPE TO GET TO SEE THIS EXHIBITION MYSELF,* HE SAID.
THE DUKE ADDED THAT THIS YEAR, THE BOARD WOULD BE SUPPORTING ABOUT 200 BRITISH BUSINESSMEN ON VISITS TO HONG KONG, AS MEMBERS OF TRADE MISSIONS COVERING A VAST RANGE OF PRODUCTS FROM HEAVY INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT TO MANY KINDS OF CONSUMER ITEMS.
DR. HARRY FANG, WHO IS IN LONDON AS A MEMBER OF A COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION DELEGATION AND WHO WAS A GUEST AT THE DINNER, TOLD THE GATHERING THAT THE SUCCESS OF HONG KONG HAD COME ABOUT NOT ONLY THROUGH THE WISE AND DEDICATED LEADERSHIP OF SUCCESSIVE GOVERNORS BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY THROUGH THE SHEER HARD WORK AND RESILENCE OF THE WORK FORCE.
/HE SAID
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 1977
- 6 -
HE SAID HE WAS SURE THAT HE WAS ECHOING THE FEELINGS OF THE GATHERING WHEN HE WISHED HONG KONG PROSPER LONG, +SO THAT ITS INHABITANTS MAY SHARE IN THE GENERAL WEALTH, WHICH IS THE FRUIT OF THEIR TOILS.*
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION, MR. JOHN SWIRE, SAID HE THOUGHT HONG KONG WAS INCREASINGLY AWARE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF ITS SPECIAL RELATIONS WITH BRITAIN.
HEREIN, HE SAID, LAY AN OPPORTUNITY FOR BRITAIN, SINCE FOR ALL THE OBVIOUS REASONS, AND PARTICULARLY THE POLITICAL ONES, HONG KONG WOULD DEARLY LIKE TO BRING THE VISIBLE TRADE INTO CLOSER BALANCE BY BUYING EVEN MORE FROM THAT COUNTRY.
MR. SWIRE SAID IT WAS NOT TRUE THE CLAIM THE PRESS NEVER TIRED OF MAKING THAT HONG KONG WAS ESSENTIALLY A PLACE OF PASSAGE, WHERE NO ROOTS WERE THRUST DOWN AND NO LASTING ACHIEVEMENT COULD BE MADE.
+LOOKING BACK FROM THE VANTAGE POINT OF THIS JUBILEE YEAR, AT THE ADVANCES MADE OVER THE LAST 25 YEARS, THE PROGRESS IN ITSELF GIVES THE LIE TO THIS CLAIM OF THE PRESS,* HE SAID.
----0----
FOUR LOTS OF LAND FOR SALE NEXT MONTH *****
A MAJOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT SITE AT REPULSE BAY WILL BE OFFERED FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION IN THE CITY HALL ON JULY 25 BY THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT’S LANDS AND SURVEY DEPARTMENT.
THE SITE OF ABOUT 5,200 SQUARE METRES IS LOCATED AT BELLEVIEW DRIVE, REPULSE BAY.
APART FROM THE REPULSE BAY SITE, THERE WILL BE THREE NONINDUSTRIAL SITES OFFERED FOR SALE AT THE AUCTION.
ONE, LOCATED BETWEEN QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL AND LOWER LASCAR ROW, HAS AN AREA OF ABOUT 211 SQUARE METRES.
THE OTHER TWO LOTS ON OFFER ARE SITUATED IN KOWLOON.
ONE OF THE SITES, OF ABOUT 94 SQUARE METRES, IS LOCATED AT PO WAI LAND, PO KONG VILLAGE ROAD.
ANOTHER LOT OCCUPYING AN AREA OF ABOUT 217 SQUARE METRES IS AT THE JUNCTION OF TING ON STREET AND TING FU STREET.
THE PUBLIC AUCTION WILL BE HELD AT 2.30 P.M. ON JULY 25 IN THE THEATRE OF THE CITY HALL.
FULL PARTICULARS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM, AND SALE PLANS INSPECTED AT, THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES (WEST WING), GROUND FLOOR, AND AT THE CROWN LANDS AND SURVEY OFFICE, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 405, NATHAN ROAD, 10TH FLOOR, KOWLOON.
/?.....
- - 0 -
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 1977
- ? -
GOVERNOR PAYS TRIBUTE TO CAS AND ITS COMMISSIONER
* K M M
THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, THIS EVENING CONGRATULATED
THE CIVIL AID SERVICES FOR ITS ACHIEVEMENTS OVER THE LAST 25
YEARS AND THE RETIRING COMMISSIONER, MR. P.C. WOO FOR HIS +MANY NOTEWORTHY DUTIES.*
SPEAKING AT THE C.A.S. 25TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER PARTY IN
THE CITY HALL RESTAURANT, SIR MURRAY PRAISED THE C.A.S. IN HELPING TO MAKE HONG KONG A BETTER AND SAFER PLACE TO LIVE IN, AND THANKED MR. WOO, ON BEHALF OF THE COMMUNITY, AND WISHED HIM A +HAPPY AND WELL EARNED RETIREMENT.*
ADDED THAT
SIR MURRAY
TO THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT THE C.A.S.
HE LOOKED FORWARD WITH CONFIDENCE OF THE FINE SERVICE PROVIDED BY
FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THE GOVERNOR’S SPEECHi
+1 AM VERY PLEASED, ONCE AGAIN, TO BE WITH YOU TO ENJOY YOUR TRADITIONAL HOSPITALITY AND ESPECIALLY TO PARTICIPATE IN YOUR 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS.
+THIS IS A YEAR OF DISTINGUISHED SILVER JUBILEES AND 1977 MARKS 25 YEARS OF NOTABLE AND DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY OF HONG KONG BY THE CIVIL AID SERVICES.
+THE PERIOD HAS SEEN THE C.A.S. CHANGE FROM A CIVIL DEFENCE ORGANIZATION TO ONE ABLE TO DEAL WITH CIVIL EMERGENCY SITUATIONS OF MANY TYPES AND TO PROVIDE COMMUNITY SERVICE IN MANY DIFFERENT FIELDS.
+WHEREVER THERE ARE FLOODS, TYPHOONS OR LANDSLIDES OR A DANGER OF FOREST FIRES OR A NEED FOR MOUNTAIN RESCUE THE C.A.S. IS TO BE FOUND. MUCH OF THE CREDIT FOR THE SUCCESSFUL OPERATION OF THE VIETNAMESE REFUGEE CAMPS TWO YEARS AGO ALSO GOES TO THE C.A.S. : AND LAST BUT BY NO MEANS LEAST, YOUR CIVIC TASKS INCLUDING CROWD CONTROL, ORGANIZATION OF CHARITY WALKS, SAFETY AND CLEANSING CAMPAIGNS AND THE TRAINING OF YOUNG PEOPLE ARE AN ENORMOUS HELP.
+IN ALL THESE WAYS THE C.A.S. HELPS TO MAKE HONG KONG A BETTER AND SAFER PLACE TO LIVE, I CONGRATULATE YOU ON YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS, AND LOOK FORWARD WITH CONFIDENCE TO THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF OF THIS FINE SERV ICE.
+UNHAPPILY, THIS YEAR WILL ALSO SEE THE RETIREMENT FROM ACTIVE SERVICE OF YOUR COMMISSIONER, THE HON. P.C. WOO, WHOSE ASSOCIATION WITH THE SERVICE DATES BACK ALMOST TO ITS INCEPTION.
+DURING THESE YEARS MR. 400 HAS PERFORMED MANY NOTEWORTHY DUTIES. HE HAS CONTRIBUTED IMPORTANTLY TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SERVICE AND AS COMMISSIONER FOR THE PAST NINE YEARS HAS GUIDED IT THROUGH MANY CHALLENGES TO THE MULTI-FUNCTIONAL ROLE AND HIGHLY RESPECTED POSITION IT ENJOYS TODAY.
/♦TO YOU, .....
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 1977
- 8 -
+T0 YOU, MR. WOO, I WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS THE THANKS OF THE COMMUNITY FOR YOUR WORK FOR THE C.A.S. AS FOR SO MUCH ELSE IN HONG KONG, AND TO WISH YOU A HAPPY AND WELL EARNED RETIREMENT.
+YOU CAN TAKE PRIDE IN HAVING BUILT THE SERVICE INTO THE HIGHLY EFFECTIVE FORCE IT IS TODAY, AND YOU HAND OVER TO MR. R.H. LOBO AN ORGANIZATION WITH PLENTY OF CONFIDENCE, WELL TRAINED AND WELL ABLE TO FACE THE DEMANDS OF THE FUTURE.
GENTLEMEN I WILL NOW ASK YOU ALL TO RISE
TO YOUR RETIRING COMMISSIONER AND TO THE FUTURE
+LADIES AND AND DRINK A TOAST
OF THE CIVIL AID SERVICES.*
- - - - 0 -------------
CONVERSION OF THREE HUNG HOM CARPARK FLOORS INTO SPORTS CENTRE ******
THE THREE TOP FLOORS OF THE HUNG HOM MULTI-STOREY CARPARK WILL BE CLOSED FROM NEXT MONTH FOR ONE YEAR, IT WAS ANNOUNCED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY.
THE CLOSURE OF THE SIXTH, SEVENTH AND EIGHTH FLOORS OF THE CARPARK FROM JULY 1, 1977 TO JUNE 30, 1978 IS TO ALLOW FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE SPACES INTO FACILITIES FOR SPORT AND RECREATION.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SAID THE THREE FLOORS WOULD BE HANDED OVER TO THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE CF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT FOR ONE YEAR, WITH FURTHER EXTENSIONS IF AND WHEN NECESSARY.
HE SAID THAT THIS WAS IN LINE WITH THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY TO MAXIMISE THE USE OF EVERY AVAILABLE FACILITIES. +SINCE THE CARPARK HAS NOT BEEN FULLY UTILISED BY THE PUBLIC IN THE PAST, IT IS HOPED THAT IT WILL BECOME MORE POPULAR AFTER ITS UPPER FLOORS ARE CONVERTED INTO A SPORTS CENTRE,* HE SAID.
ALTHOUGH THE HUNG HOM MULTI-STOREY CARPARK, WHICH WAS OPENED ON NOVEMBER 30, 1975, CAN ACCOMMODATE 1,500 CARS, ONLY ABOUT 110 VEHICLES MADE USE OF IT DAILY. IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE CARPARK WILL BE FULLY UTILISED WHEN THE INDOOR STADIUM IN HUNG HOM AND THE SHATIN RACECOURSE ARE COMPLETED.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE RECREATION AND SPORT SERVICE SAID TODAY THAT IF EVERYTHING GOES ACCORDING TO PLAN, THE SPORTS CENTRE, WHICH WOULD CATER FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES, WOULD BE READY IN AUGUST.
HE SAID THAT THE 30,000 SG. FT. SPORTS CENTRE, WOULD PROVIDE FOR INDOOR RECREATIONAL AND SPORT FACILITIES SUCH AS TABLE TENNIS, BADMINTON, TRAMPOLINE, ROLLER-SKATING AND BOXING.
COACHING CLASSES IN TAI CHI CHUAN, BOXING, DANCING, BADMINTON AND OTHERS CONDUCTED BY QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED COACHES WOULD ALSO BE ORGANISED, HE ADDED.
- - 0 -
/9......
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 1977
9
FIRING PRACTICE
*****
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE AT CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON 20 DAYS NEXT MONTH.
THE PUBLIC ARE REMINDED THAT IT IS DANGEROUS TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN THE RED FLAGS ARE FLYING DURING THE TIME OF FIRING PRACTICE.
THE PRACTICE TIMES AREi
DATE HOURS
JULY 4 (MONDAY) 8 .30 A.M. — 6 P.M.
JULY 5 (TUESDAY) 8 A.M. — 11 P.M.
JULY 6 (WEDNESDAY) 8 A.M. — 6 P.M.
JULY 7 (THURSDAY) 8 A.M. — 11 P.M.
JULY 8 (FR DAY) 8 A.M. — 4 P.M.
JULY 11 (MONDAY) 8 .30 A.M. •• 6 P.M.
JULY 12 (TUESDAY) 8 A.M. «■» 6 P.M.
JULY 13 (WEDNESDAY) 8 A.M. — 6 P.M.
JULY 14 (THURSDAY) 8 A.M. 6 P.M.
JULY 15 (FR IDAY) 8 A.M. 3 P.M.
JULY 18 (MONDAY) 8, .30 A.M. 8 P.M.
JULY 19 (TUESDAY) 8 A.M. — 8 P.M.
JULY 20 (WEDNESDAY) 8 A.M. 8 P.M.
JULY 21 (THURSDAY) 8 A.M. — 8 P.M.
JULY 22 (FRIDAY) 8 A.M. — 6 P.M.
JULY 25 (MONDAY) 8. 30 A.M. — 11 P.M.
JULY 26 (TUESDAY) 8 A.M. — 6 P.M.
JULY 27 (WEDNESDAY) 8 A.M. — 11 P.M.
JULY 28 (THURSDAY) 8 A.M. — 6 P.M.
JULY 29 (FR IDAY) 8 A.M. 4 P.M.
C
PR 33
EIS
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN SUPPLEMENT
Friday, June 24, 1977
• f
DRAGON BOAT DINNER IN LONDON ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
The Hong Kong Association held a ‘’Dragon Boat” dinner at Savoy Hotel in London on Thursday (June 23) night.
HRH, the Duke of Kent was the guest of honour and spoke at the dinner. Others who spoke were Dr. the Hon. Harry Fang and hr. John Swire, Chairman of the Hong Kong Association.
The following is the full text of the Duke’s speech
”If I had needed any encouragement to accept your invitation to come to this dinner I should have found it I think in the discovery that this is your fourth Dragon Boat Dinner - a fact which made me doubly pleased to accept. Not only do I have the happiest memories of my own time in Kong Kong but I also as a former participant in one of those dragon boat races have the clearest recollection of paddling our boat - at least it started as paddling, but we finished by pushing it, up to our necks in murky water, across Taipo Harbour.
’•That was 14 years ago but the impressions formed then are as crystal sharp, as if it were last week. I assure you that you have done me a great honour in inviting me to join such a distinguished
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House. Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
/group .....
2
group including a number of ’old China hands’ this evening, and thus giving me the chance to catch up with life in this last remaining British Colony.
"This seems to be a great year for reminiscing, or at least for reviewing events of the last 25 years. I hope therefore you will forgive me if I fall in with the popular trend for a few moments to reflect on what has happened in Hong Kong over that time. It so happens that my first visit to the colony was exactly 25 years ago when as a very young man, in fact I v/as still at school, I v/as taken round the New Territories and shown with pride one of the first big resettlement schemes in Kowloon which were then starting to be built in order to house the large influx of population from China.
”At that time there were still fewer than a million people in the colony - in fact you could look down from halfway up the peak and actually see the harbour then - now you have to go to the top to look over the skyscrapers - but the line on the graph was beginning to shoot up and there were many v/ho were convinced Hong Kong was about to burst at the seams - that such numbers of people in such a small area could scarcely be housed, let alone fed, or given work.
•’There were gloomy prophesies of starvation, disease and of violent revolution. As you know better than I do, the Jeremiahs were confounded. Today, not only has the number of inhabitants multiplied five times, but by dint of remarkable foresight, superb planning and incredible human exertions this staggering number of people has been housed - some of the densest housing anywhere and this alone is impressive enough (I could scarcely believe the amount of building that had taken place in the 10 years between my first and second
/visits) .....
3
visits) - industry of all kinds has flourished so th't unemployment is negligible, the standard of living is far higher than it was 25 years ago, with excellent’schools, splendid hospitals .nd services arid all this has been brought about without serious social unrest or conflict - apart from the brief outbreak of violence of 10 years ago which was not a home-grown product.
"In short, hard work and the right environment have meant that Hong Kong has long become accustomed to a rising level of prosperity. Today, from all accounts the colony is thriving as few other territories in the world are thriving - and that population hasn’t stopped growing yet. ■
’’All this represents an achievement for which it is impossible to think of a parallel - even the Japanese performance does not equal it. So in the jubilee year of 1977 it is not inappropriate to congratulate the people and the Government of Hong Kong on their energy and their enlightened policies which have achieved this remarkable record.
I don’t doubt that if we examined that record we could find in it some pretty useful lessons for ourselves.
”If I say that my own year in Hong Kong was not only one of the happiest but unquestionably the most interesting of the life, I feel certain this experience is by no means untypical. Such is the beauty of the place, together with the unique atmosphere of constant thriving activity, that Hong Kong cannot fail to make a deep impression on anyone who spends any time there. I therefore find it enormously stimulating to have this chance of renewing contacts with liong Kong friends, albeit on a rather different footing from that of 1963 when
/I was a .....
4
I was a serving soldier. The world of trade in which I now find myself is far removed from that of the army and in many ways it is at least as much of a challenge, if not a greater one, even thougn there are welcome signs that our trading performance is starting to improve. As far as Hong Kong is concerned, her prosperity was of course founded on trade and despite having negligible resources of her own she has continued to amaze the world by the thrusting success of her business enterprises.
’’Like Britain she needs to export a high proportion of her total output and in this has been remarkably successful - not only was the total business between us grown threefold in six years, but in fact from being a position of near equilibrium seven or eight years ago the trading balance has now tipped heavily in liong Kong’s favour. We in Britain must ruefully admit that our kirn in Hong Kong seem to have the edge over us at the moment in export terms.
’’What gives us even greater cause for concern however is that the United Kingdom’s share of the Hong Kong market has declined over a period of ten years or so from 11 per cent to 5 per cent. There are no doubt many excellent reasons why other countries have increased their share at our expense but the evidence seems inescapable that British exporters in general have failed to capitalise on what should historically have been a thoroughly favourable situation for them.
’’Not only had Hong Kong traditionally looked to Britain as a major supplier but the goodwill towards us in the Colony was extensive. Unhappily it seems to have been another instance of the familiar bogey - too easy a market breeding complacency, while more aggresive salesmen from other countries make hay.
’ /’’The attribute ••
5
’‘The attribute that Hong Kong is a ’captive* market still unfortunately persists among too many British firms who seem to think they need not bother to sell to Hong Kong - that the customers will come to them. How wrong they are. What is doubly sad is that the potential is so plainly there. How many businessmen in this country I wonder realise that Hong Kong is actually our second largest market in the Far East, after Japan - here is a population of 4-1/2 million taking about 200 million pounds worth of goods a year compared with one in Japan of 11J million taking 350 million pounds.
”If we had 11 per cent of that market once, my bet is that with a really determined effort it should not be beyond us to recapture it. The auguries for 1977 do give us a little encouragement in this direction - the first quarter of this year saw an improvement of about 50 per cent in our exports compared with a year ago, which is at least welcome. I only hope this trend can be maintained, although I don’t under-estimate the difficulty of clawing back business from one’s competitors.
"If there are promising signs of a new interest in the Hong Kong market among British firms, undoubtedly our success in winning some of the major contracts for the new underground railway has been a big contributory factor. Participation in such a prestige project is in itself a great .stimulus and can act as a catalyst for marketing other goods and services.
’’The extremely rapid development to which I have referred should be a magnet for British industry, especially on the capital goods side, but here again I have the impression that there remains
/an amazing......
6
an amazing degree of ignorance among British industrialists as to the opportunities Hong Kong offers. On the other side of the coin there is no doubt a fair degree of ignorance at the Hong Kong end too of what Britain can make available, although that is probably •i
partly our fault. At any rate we intend to try and correct that state of affairs - in a number of ways. The most spectacular is a major exhibition of machinery and technology which the British Overseas Trade Board plans to mount in Hong Kong in early 1978 -and I am glad to say that the response to this plan so far has been most encouraging. If it is at all possible I hope to get to see this exhibition myself.
’’But there are other areas too where we see great scope for increased business, for instance only last month several important missions from Hong Kong were received in London: from the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, the Hong Kong Shipowners Association and from a representative group of industrial buyers. All three missions have resulted in substantial orders being placed and we look forward to further visits of this kind - they ’will always be more than welcome.
”At the same time we do not overlook the equally essential -perhaps even more essential - need to encourage British manufacturers to visit the Colony, to see for themselves how well things are going there and to get a peel of the market. This year our board will be supporting some 200 British businessmen on visits to Hong Kong, as members of trade missions covering a vast range of products from heavy industrial equipment to many kinds of consumer items.
”In all this work of encouragement and promotion the British Overseas Trade Board gets valuable help from several bodies, notably
/from our .....
from nur hosts tae Hong Kong Association to whom we are extremely grateful for all the helpful liaison and publicity work they do and /
also from the Hong Kong trade advisory group, under Hr. John Browne’s a tile leadership.
5’Who are actively running seminars up and down the country on opportunities in the territory. Many busy people give up a great deal of their time for this work end our board fully recognises and appreciates these voluntary efforts,
’’Ladies and gentlemen, you will I think be aware by now that I have the very warmest affection and admiration for Hong Kong and its people. The links between them and us in Britain are pov.'erful and lasting. All of us here I know would like to see those ties strengthened still further and it is certainly my hope that this can be brought about by a greatly increase awareness, especially in the British business world, of what Hong Kong has achieved and is still achieving. It is to the success of all these endeavours that I now raise my glass, and especially .to the continued prosperity of that unique British territory on the other side of the world.
*{I give ^you the toast - ’Hong Kong’.”
8
The following is the full text of Dr. the Hon. Harry bang’s speech:-
"I count myself fortunate and indeed greatly honoured t. be asked, on behalf cf the guest.’ in this distinguished .thering, to say a fen words.
"The choice <f a suitable topic for this celebrated occasion gave r.e so e difficulty, I must confess. I decided finally that in place of some weighty matters of state, it would aid digestion if I spoke in a lighter vein on the Dragon Boat -•'estival, and on the Chinese names of our post-war Governors, for those of you who have heard it all before, I hope you will bear with me for a few minutes.
"The Dragon Boat Festival dates back to the days of the Seven Kingdoms and the Han Dynasty over 2,000 years ago. It is a memorial day for a distinguished patriotic poet-cum-politician who killed himself by jumping into the river v/hen he saw no more hope for his country.
"This festival day falls on the 5th day of the 5th moon, and is in fact the day of summer solstice - the end of spring, the beginning of summer, t- , end cf the "young" cycle and the beginning of Jying:t. It is celebrated as the day the crops would begin to prow, and dreaded as the day insects, infections, communicable diseases commence to flourish. This day used to be considered an omen of sorrow and evil, but slowly, customs have changed over the centuries. The clash of cymbals and drums of the dragon boats are no longer to drive the evil spirits away, but a healthy sporting event which in long Kong is supported enthusiastically not only by local Chinese residents, but by all nationalities, including a special crew sent all the way from Japan. It is in fact most appropriate that the Hong Kong association should hold its annual dinner on this day.
/"Whilst on......
9
•Whilst on the subject of Chinese customs, names in Chinese are considered to be very important and indicative of good or bad fortune, just like ’’Fung Shui”. Hong Kong has been very fortunate in the Chinese names of all its post-war Governors.
Sir Mark Young’s Chinese name means love for surprise and excite:lent. This adventuring spirit inspired many of the early imriij.rants to Hong Kong immediately after the war; then came Sir Alexander Grantham, who unfortunately cannot join us this evening, who was in Hong Kong for ten years. His name meant good appetite, big capacity, broadmindedness, which symbolised Hong Kong’s endurance in adversity, versatility and prosperity. Then we had Sir Robert Black, who I am so pleased to see here tonight. Black, as the name denotes, is not a cheerful colour, but his Chinese name means something entirely different. It stands for solid foundation and reliability, and so Hong Kong was indeed a safe refuge for many people who decided to settle there.
’’Sir David Trench, who is seated on my left, came next, and he had a Chinese name meaning he brought with him the toe of the Chinese royal beast, which is considered a lucky charm, similar to a rabbit’s foot. He brought us, in addition to other things, a lot of luck to see us through two major crises. The first was the severe drought in 19^4, when water was rationed for four hours every fourth day. The first week he arrived, he brought torrential rain. The second crisis was the riots in 19&7- The situation v/c,s at one time so critical that nationals of foreign countries, and that does not of course include citizens of the U.K., were told to be prepared for evacuation within 2k hours. Since then, Hong Kong has never looked back.
/’’And now........
10
”And now v/c have Sir Murray MacLehoee whose Chinese name means administrator par excellence. Plans which were thought to be impossible, such as the fight against corruption and narcotics, and the provision of housing for 200,000 people a year, are now becoming accepted as part of our way of life.
-And so you see Heng Kong has had a succession of Coveme aTI with nronitiously chosen Chinese names. But the success of Hong Kong has come about not only through their wise and dedicated lerdership but more importantly through the sheer hard work and resilience of our work force who have an indomitable will to weather all storms.
'All of us who are here tonight have one thing in common: a deep and abiding interest in Hong Kong and in the welfare of its people. Hong Kong has a record which it can justifp.ably be proud ।
of, although we all realise that much still remains to be done. I am sure I am echoing the feelings of this gathering when I say long may Hong Kong prosper so that its inhabitants may share in the general wealth, which is the fruit of their toils.
:iKr. Chairman, on behalf of the guests present here, I thank you most sincerely for inviting us to this heart-warming reunion, and taking my cue from you, may I therefore ask the hosts to join us, guests in drinking together a joint toast of thanlzs.'4
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11
The following is Mr, John Swire’s speech
“First, Sir/ I would like to thank you for proposing the toast of Hong Kong tonight. It is •clear that, like so many of us who have lived in Hong Kong, you consider yourself an adopted citizen, and because of this, and because of your personal knowledge of the place, you have left me very little to say in response on behalf of Hong Kong,
“This may well be a relief to those here tonight, but I would, if I may, like to add to your reminiscences by saying that I, too, remember your visit in Coronation Year, You had just acquired a new camera, and, doubtless, like the rest of us, you took many photographs of Hong Kong as it was in those days.
"I have recently been looking at my own photographs of central Hong Kong in the early 50's, and what strikes me in particular is the change in the appearance of the people since these days. Then all that stood out were a few Chinese women in their white or blue pyjama-like suits - I believe they arc called ’Sai Xum Sam1 -and even fewer girls, both Chinese and foreign, looking undeniably dowdy, in what must have been the ’New Look’.
’’And here I never cease to wonder how it is that the hair of the Chinese girls was always immaculate, whereas,- before the days of air conditioning in home and office, I must admit th: t the foreign-heads appeared to be covered in some species of dan.-' seaweed - but all that apart, the clothes of the very great majority of those in the street, both men’ and Women, betrayed poverty in some degree.
’’Today a street scene, particularly in Central District, shows a milling throng of smart suits, white pressed shirts and every conceivable variation of jeans as worn by the fashion—conscious boy and girl the world over.
/•’There was, ....
12
“There was, as you say, been a transformation: in short, Horig Kong now has, measured by most criteria, the highest standard of living in Asia, after Japan. Of course there is still poverty, and in most respects there is still a long vry to go before European standards are reached.
“But under successive Governors - and I am glad that wc have Sir Robert Black and Sir David Trench here tonight, even if, sadly, our’President, Sir Alexander Grantham, cannot be hero - under their leadership, and under the present leadership of Sir i'lurray MacLehose, the Hong Kong Government can be proud of its considerable achievements in providing housing, medical services and education for . population that, swollen by refugees, has increased from about one million to million today.
“Doctor Harry Fang, who will be known to many of you is a distinguished orthopaedic surgeon and member of the Hong long Legislative Council, and who is presently in this country as a member of a Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Delegation, has kindly agreed to respond to the toast to the guests tonight, and I know that he will be touching on the achievements - I suppose unique in the post-war world - of the Hong Kong Government, so I will say no more on this subject.
“The Government, however, can only provide the inspiration and the framework, important thought there are. Hong Kong itself has no natural resources, other than its hard-working and ingenious population, and they depend upon exports, services and tourism to survive.
“Hong Kong is, I think, increasingly aware of the importance of its special relationship with Britain, and herein, as you have emphasised, lies an opportunity for Britain, since for all the obvious
/reasons, .....
13
reasons, and particularly the political ones, Hong Kong would dearly like t' bring the visible trade- into closer balance by buying even more frc"- this country.
”And here, while endorsing everything th t you say about the need for Britain to be njt only nwaro of the o; rtunitics, but fully competitive- in seizing them, lest we become too depressed by the trade gap to which you have referred, I should perliaps mention that the figures are not quite as black as they look, because Hong Kong buys British goods, ships end aircraft engines that for various reasons do not appear in the U.K. Hong Kong trade figures.
’•There is no room for complacency, however, and like you, dir, I sorxtines wonder if Britain is always fully aware, of the opportunities thus presented. I also wonder if we all in Britain are aware of the responsibilities that are inherent in this special relationship - for Hong Kong, alone of our colonies and e^e-colonies, hasn’t the option of independence as an alternative to its resent status: and this docs lay a very special responsibility on us in this country. uc should, I suggest ponder on this.
ll0n behalf of the H>ng Kang 4.ss elation I should like to welcome all our guests h~rc this evening and to say how leased we arc that you have come. .s usual, the Srccks had a word for it, ’Xenos’, which neons, I believe, both hosts and guests. This has nctny advantages; for one thing, if we hod been in ancient Greece it wjuld only have been necessary for Dr. Fang to hake a speech n behalf of ’Oi Ifenoi’ and you would have jjc.cn spared my appearance. But I d; fool that there is a real truth behind this concept of making no difference between host and picst - and in proposing the toast of the guests tonight, I would like to suggest that, not only the people of Hong Kong, for whom wo all have such admiration, but administrators, businessmen and servicemen, too, have in this sense,
/all........
14
all been both guests and hosts during their sojourn in Hong Kong, making their own special contribution to its success nd progress.
’’The press never tires of claiming that a-xi; h-n is essentially a place of passage, where no roots are thrust Am n and nb Lasting achievement can be made. This is not true’, and I say this not only because there must be several here tonight, both British and Chinese, who, like my own family, can claim at least five generations’ experience of the place. Indeed, looking back from the vantage point of this Jubilee Year, at the adv: nces made-over the last 25 years, the progress in itself gives the lie to this claim of the press.
”To this progress both quests and hosts have . ado their contribution, as they have to this dinner tonight, and in proposing the toast to the guests I would like to follow the custom of our Chinese friends, and suggest that we all, both hosts and guests .--like, stand and drink the toast together.
”1 give you the toast of ’The Guests’.”
. • • T
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO?
FOURTH DESALTER UNIT IN OPERATION ............................ 1
HON. P.C. WOO RETIRES AS CAS COMMISSIONER .........■.......... 2
EMPLOYERS REMINDED TO GIVE * FLOAT I NG’HOL I DAY •........... 3
ANTI-RABIES DRIVE MOVES TO ABERDEEN .......................... *
DIGEST OF APRIL STATISTICS ON SALE ........................... *
HAU MAN STREET PLB RESTRICTIONS .............................. 5
TEMPORARY NT CENTRES FOR COLLECTING WATER CHARGES ............ 5
FIRING PRACTICE .............................................. 6
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 1977
1
FOURTH EVAPORATOR TO GO ON STREAM AT LOK ON PAI DESALTER ******
THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT TODAY BROUGHT INTO OPERATION THE FOURTH EVAPORATOR UNIT OF THE LOK ON PAI DESALTING PLANT.
SUBJECT TO TECHNICAL ADJUSTMENTS AND WATER TESTS, THE UNIT IS EXPECTED TO GO ON STREAM WITHIN THE NEXT FEW DAYS TO RAISE THE DESALTER’S DAILY FRESH WATER PRODUCTION TO 26.68 MILLION GALLONS.
THE OPERATION OF THE DESALTER’S FIFTH AND SIXTH EVAPORATORS WILL TAKE PLACE BETWEEN NOW AND SEPTEMBER, BRINGING THE MAMMOTH PLANT UP TO ITS FULL CAPACITY OF 40 MILLION GALLONS A DAY - AN EQUIVALENT OF ABOUT ONE-SIXTH OF HONG KONG’S PRESENT DAILY WATER CONSUMPTION.
THE P.W.D.’S ACTING GOVERNMENT WATER ENGINEER (DESALTER), MR. FREDERICK THOMAS, SAID TODAY ALTHOUGH THE FOURTH UNIT WAS NOW OPERATIONAL, IT WOULD BE A FEW DAYS BEFORE IT BEGAN FEEDING FRESH WATER INTO HONG KONG’S WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM.
+AS WITH ANY SOPHISTICATED TECHNICAL OPERATION — AND WE MUST REMEMBER THAT LOK ON PAI IS THE WORLD’S BIGGEST AND MOST COMPLEX DESALTER — THERE ARE ADJUSTMENTS THAT HAVE TO BE MADE ONCE THE COMPONENTS ARE RUNNING,* MR. THOMAS SAID. +THERE ARE ALSO TESTS THAT MUST BE UNDERTAKEN TO ENSURE THAT THE WATER PRODUCED IS OF SUITABLE PURITY BEFORE THE UNIT GOES ON STREAM.*
THE EVAPORATORS AT LOK ON PAI EACH HAVE 28 CHAMBERS THROUGH WHICH HEATED SEAWATER AND BRINE IS PASSED, GIVING OFF CONDENSED PURE FRESH WATER AT EACH STAGE. THIS OUTPUT IS THEN TREATED WITH CHEMICALS TO GIVE IT SOME +TASTE+ -- DISTILLED WATER IS SOMEWHAT UNPALATABLE — AND IT IS THEN PUMPED INTO THE NEARBY TAI LAM CHUNG RESERVOIR TO BE FED INTO THE WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM.
THE COMMISSIONING OF THE FOURTH EVAPORATOR COINCIDES WITH AN INTENSIVE STAFF RECRUITING DRIVE FOR THE DESALTING PLANT BY THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT.
+WE NOW HAVE ENOUGH STAFF TO OPERATE FOUR EVAPORATORS,* MR. THOMAS SAID, +BUT WE ARE LOOKING FOR EXTRA STAFF TO MAN THE FIFTH AND SIXTH UNITS.*
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SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 1977
- 2 -
NEW COMMISSIONER FOR C.A.S. * * * *
CIVIL AID SERVICES COMMISSIONER, THE HON. P.C. WOO, WHO HAS SERVED WITH THE C.A.S. FOR 25 YEARS, WILL RELINQUISH HIS COMMAND AT THE END OF THIS MONTH. HE WILL BE SUCCEEDED BY THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER, THE HON. ROGER LOBO.
MR. WOO HAS BEEN C.A.S. COMMISSIONER FOR ALMOST TEN YEARS.
MR. LOBO JOINED THE C.A.S. IN 1955, SHORTLY AFTER IT RE-FORMED AFTER THE LAST WAR. HE HAS SERVED IN MANY SENIOR POSTS IN THE C.A.S. AND IS A LEADING MEMBER OF THE HONG KONG COMMUNITY.
HIS TASK AS COMMISSIONER WILL BE TO CO-ORDINATE C.A.S. ACTIVITIES DURING TIMES OF DISASTER BY ASSISTING VICTIMS OF TYPHOONS, LANDSLIDES, AND ANY OTHER DUTIES CONCERNED WITH FOREST FIRE FIGHTING AND ANTI-OIL POLLUTION.
DURING MORE PEACEFUL OCCASIONS WHEN THE C.A.S. ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ORGANISING FESTIVALS, PROCESSIONS, CROWD CONTROL, SPORTING MEETINGS AND DURING GOVERNMENT CAMPAIGNS OR CHARITY DRIVES HE ALSO HEADS THE 2,200 STRONG CADET CORPS.
MR. LOBO WILL HAVE, AS HIS DEPUTY, MR. T.K. HO, WHO HAS UP UNTIL NOW BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL C.A.S. SUPPORT UNITS.
MR. HO FIRST JOINED THE C.A.S. IN 1952 - AND ALSO HAS A VERY WIDE EXPERIENCE IN OPERATIONAL AND CIVIC DUTIES.
C.A.S. HAVE BEEN VERY BUSY OVER THE LAST YEAR, HELPING TO EXTINGUISH FOREST FIRES, PATROLLING RURAL AREAS, ORGANISING AND CO-ORDINATING THE QUEEN’S SILVER JUBILEE PROCESSION AND RESCUING HIKERS INJURED AND LOST IN MOUNTAINS. THEY ARE FULLY PREPARED FOR THE TROPICAL CYCLONE SEASON AND READY TO MEET ANY EMERGENCY.
THE CADET CORPS OF 2,200 YOUTHS ARE ALSO TAKING PART IN MORE ADULT ACTIVITIES BESIDES THEIR NORMAL APPRENTICE WORK AND CAMPING EXPEDITIONS.
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SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 1977
3
FLOATING HOLIDAY REMINDER * * M X
2 THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR. PETER WILLIAMS, TODAY REMINDED EMPLOYERS THAT IF THEY HAVE NOT ALREADY DESIGNATED A DATE FOR THE +FLOATING+ HOLIDAY — ONE OF THE 10 STATUTORY HOLIDAYS UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE — BY THE END OF LAST YEAR, THEY SHOULD GIVE EMPLOYEES THE DAY OFF EITHER ON JULY 1 OR AUGUST 1 THIS YEAR.
UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE, THE +FLOATING+ HOLIDAY MUST BE DESIGNATED BY THE EMPLOYER AND NOTIFIED TO EMPLOYEES BY A NOTICE PLACED IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE BY THE END OF THE PRECEDING YEAR.
MR. WILLIAMS EMPHASISED THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE APPLIED TO EMPLOYEES IN ALL AREAS INCLUDING THE SERVICES AND CATERING TRADES.
UNDER THE ORDINANCE, ALL MANUAL EMPLOYEES WITHOUT DISTINCTION, INCLUDING DOMESTIC SERVANTS, IRRESPECTIVE OF THEIR EARNINGS AND ALL NON-MANUAL EMPLOYEES EARNING NOT MORE THAN $2,000 A MONTH, ARE ENTITLED TO THE HOLIDAY. THEY MUST ALSO BE PAID FOR THE DAY OFF IF; THEY HAVE WORKED CONTINUOUSLY FOR THEIR EMPLOYERS FOR THREE MONTHS IMMEDIATELY PRECEDING THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY.
IF AN EMPLOYER WANTS AN EMPLOYEE TO WORK ON A STATUTORY HOLIDAY, HE MUST GIVE HIM AT LEAST 48 HOURS’ NOTICE, AND GIVE HIM AN ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAY WITHIN 60 DAYS OF THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY.
IF HE INTENDS TO GIVE THE EMPLOYEE AN ALTERNATIVE DAY OFF BEFORE THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY, HE MUST NOTIFY HIM 48 HOURS IN ADVANCE. IF IT IS TO BE GIVEN AFTER THE STATUTORY HOLIDAY, HE MUST INFORM THE EMPLOYEE OF THE ARRANGEMENT AT LEAST 48 HOURS BEFORE.
I COMPLAINTS OR ENQUIRIES ABOUT STATUTORY HOLIDAYS MAY BE MADE TO THE NEAREST BRANCH OFFICE OF THE LABOUR RELATIONS SERVICE. THE TELEPHONE NUMBERS AREs FOR KOWLOON EAST 3-205638-KOWLOON WEST 3-201652- KWUN TONG 3-898520- TSUEN WAN 12-422096-YUEN LONG 12-760261 EXT. 82- AND HONG KONG ISLAND 5-282523 EXT. 60.
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SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 1977
<
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ANTI-RABIES DRIVE AT ABERDEEN AND WONG CHUK HANG NEXT WEEK
******
THE AGRICULTURE AND F I SHER IES DEPARTMENT W ILL^ROV IDE^
ADDITIONAL DOG INOCULATION AND LICENSING OF ABERDEEN AND WONG CHUK HANG ON MONDAY (JUNE 27 AND 28).
AND TUESDAY,
THIS WILL BE THE SIXTH AND ALSO THE DISTRICT CAMPAIGN FOR HONG KONG ISLAND.
SECOND LAST ANTI-RABIES
TEMPORARY DOG INOCULATION AND LICENSING CENTRES WILL BE SET IP AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS I
* 174, POKFULAM ROAD (IN FRONT OF POKFULAM VILLAGE)-
* 66, SHEK PAI WAN ROAD (OPPOSITE HONG KONG AND SHANGHAI BANK, TIN WAN BRANCH)-
* ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD (AT SIDE OF ABERDEEN MARKET).
THESE CENTRES WILL BE OPEN FROM 9 A.M. TO 5 P.M. DOG OWNERS LIVING IN THESE AREAS ARE ADVISED TO GET THEIR PETS IMMUNISED AND LICENSED DURING THE TWO-DAY OPERATION.
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MONTHLY DIGEST OF STATISTICS FOR APRIL ON SALE
******
THE APRIL 1977 ISSUE OF THE HONG KONG MONTHLY DIGEST OF STATISTICS WHICH IS ON SALE NOW CONTAINS A SPECIAL REVIEW ARTICLE ON TRENDS OF INFANT MORTALITY IN THE PAST TWO DECADES.
IT IS PART OF A SERIES OF REVIEW ARTICLES ON SPECIAL TOPICS OF INTEREST TO THE PUBLIC PUBLISHED EVERY THREE MONTHS BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THIS REVIEW ARTICLE ANALYSES THE VARIOUS FACTORS LEADING TO THE DECLINING TRENDS IN INFANT MORTALITY IN HONG KONG OVER THE PAST 20 YEARS AND COMPARES THE INFANT MORTALITY SITUATION IN HONG KONG WITH THOSE IN OTHER PLACES.
THE HONG KONG MONTHLY DIGEST OF STATISTICS IS OBTAINABLE FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING AT HKS6 PER COPY.
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SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 1977
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PLB RESTRICTIONS IN HAU MAN STREET
******
PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES WILL BE RESTRICTED IN CERTAIN SECTIONS OF HAU MAN STREET, HO MAN TIN, ON TUESDAY (JUNE 28) TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC CONDITIONS THERE.
THE RESTRICTIONS OF 7 A.M. TO MID-NIGHT WILL COME INTO FORCE FROM 10 A.M. ON THAT DAY AND BE IMPOSED ON BOTH SIDES OF HAU MAN STREET FOR A DISTANCE OF 114 FT. APPROXIMATELY TO THE EAST OF ITS NORTHERNMOST JUNCTION WITH CHUNG HAU STREET.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE SET UP TO INDICATE THE RESTRICTIONS.
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CENTRE FOR COLLECTION OF WATER CHARGES IN NT
******
TEMPORARY COLLECTION CENTRES WILL BE SET UP BY THE DISTRICT OFFICE, TAI PO AT SHEUNG SHU I AND FANLING FOR THE COLLECTION OF WATER CHARGES FOR THE FIRST PERIOD, 1977.
THE SHEUNG SHU I COLLECTION CENTRE WILL BE LOCATED AT THE SHEUNG SHU I PUBLIC ENQUIRY CENTRE AT SHEK WU HUI AND WILL OPERATE ON JULY 5 AND 6. THE FANLING COLLECTION CENTRE WILL BE AT THE FANLING RURAL COMMITTEE OFFICE AT LUEN WO HUI AND WILL OPERATE ON JULY 7 AND 8.
THE HOURS OF BUSINESS ON ALL THESE DAYS WILL BE FROM 9 A.M. TO 1 P.M.
RESIDENTS OF THE DISTRICTS SHOULD MAKE USE OF THESE FACILITIES WHICH ARE SPECIALLY PROVIDED FOR THEIR CONVENIENCE.
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SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 1977 - 6 -
FIRING PRACTICE
******
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE AT CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON MONDAY (JUNE 27) FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE DAYS.
THE PUBLIC ARE REMINDED THAT IT IS DANGEROUS TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN THE RED FLAGS ARE FLYING DURING THE TIME OF THE FIRING PRACTICE.
THE PRACTICE TIMES ARE:
DATE HOURS
I
JUNE 27 (MONDAY) 8.30 A.M. - 6.00 P.M.
JUNE 28 (TUESDAY) 8.30 A.M. - 4.30 P.M.
JUNE 29 (WEDNESDAY) 8.00 A.M. - 4.00 P.M.
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PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
SUNDAY, JUNE 26, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
CONCESSIONARY WATER SUPPLIES CURTAILED ....................... 1
EMPLOYERS URGED TO RESPOND TO SURVEY ......................... 2
GOVERNOR TO VISIT WATCH FACTORY .............................. 3
PRINTING DEPARTMENT PREPARED FOR EXAMS ....................... 4
MARINE DEPARTMENT OPENING HOURS ON JULY 1 .................... 5
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong. Tel: 5-233191
SUNDAY, JUNE 26, 1977
1
FURTHER CUTS IN CONCESSIONARY WATER SUPPLIES
*****
THE P.W.D.’S DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES, MR. WILLIAM TUCKER TODAY ANNOUNCED FURTHER CUTS IN CONCESSIONARY WATER SUPPLIES IN VIEW OF THE INCREASING SERIOUSNESS OF HONG KONG’S WATER STORAGE POSIT ION.
FROM TOMORROW:
* ALL PUBLIC TRANSPORT VEHICLES WILL NOT BE WASHED WITH
FRESH WATER, NOR WILL ANY GOVERNMENT VEHICLE APART FROM
THOSE WHICH REQUIRE CLEANING IN THE INTERESTS OF HYGIENE*
* AUTOMATIC CAR WASHERS WILL NO LONGER BE ALLOWED TO OPERATE*
* THE DIRECT USE OF MAINS WATER FOR PRIVATE GARDENS WILL BE BANNED.
MR. TUCKER SAID THAT BECAUSE THERE HAD BEEN A SIGNIFICANT DETERIORATION IN THE STORAGE POSITION, THESE CONCESSIONARY SUPPLIES COULD NO LONGER BE MAINTAINED.
DESPITE THE SHORTAGE, SOME CONCESSIONARY SUPPLIES WOULD BE CONTINUED FOR THE MOMENT, BUT MR. TUCKER WARNED THAT THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT WOULD BE KEEPING A CLOSE WATCH ON THESE CONCESSIONARY WATER USERS TO ENSURE THAT THERE WERE NO ABUSES.
INCLUDED IN THESE EXCEPTIONS ARE THE USE OF MAINS WATER FOR +TOPPING UP* OF PUBLIC AND CLUB SWIMMING POOLS.
THE FILLING OR REFILLING OF ALL POOLS HAS ALREADY BEEN BANNED.
MAINS WATER MAY STILL BE USED FOR WASHING DOWN COMMON AREAS IN HOUSING ESTATES, BAZAARS AND MARKETS, BUT INCREASED EFFORTS WILL BE MADE TO ENSURE THAT THERE IS MAXIMUM ECONOMY IN THE USE OF
WATER FOR THESE PURPOSES.
MR. TUCKER SAID THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT WOULD ALSO LAUNCH A LETTER CAMPAIGN AIMED AT ENCOURAGING BUILDING MANAGEMENTS TO HELP CONSERVE WATER AND AVOID WASTE.
MR. TUCKER SAID HIS DEPARTMENT HAD ALREADY INTENSIFIED ITS EFFORTS TO AVOID WASTAGE, AND STAFF OF THE WATERWORKS WASTE DETECTION AND PROSECUTION UNITS WERE ON FULL ALERT TO CHECK ANY LEAKAGES IN THE MAINS AND TO CLAMP DOWN ON WATER WASTERS.
+WE HAVE ALSO SET UP + HOT LINES* ON BOTH SIDES OF THE HARBOUR TO WHICH PEOPLE CAN REPORT INSTANCES OF WASTAGE OR LEAKS AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY OR NIGHT SO THAT PROMPT ACTION CAN BE TAKEN,* HE SA ID.
/*THE NUMBER .....
SUNDAY, JUNE 26, 1977
2
+THE NUMBER TO CALL ON HONG KONG ISLAND IS 5-726311, AND 3-948261 FOR KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES.*
OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS ARE CO-OPERATING WITH THE P.W.D. IN THE CAMPAIGN TO SAVE WATER.
THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS USING WELL, NULLAH AND STREAM WATER WHEREVER POSSIBLE TO MAINTAIN ITS GARDENS.
WHERE THERE IS NO ALTERNATIVE, MAINS WATER IS BEING USED, BUT NEVER WITH A HOSE - ALL WATERING BEING CARRIED OUT BY HAND.
THE U.S.D. HAS ALSO SUSPENDED THE PLANTING OF FLOWERS AND SHRUBS PENDING THE LIFTING OF THE WATER RESTRICTIONS.
THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT IS EDUCATING ITS TENANTS TO AVOID WASTAGE AND NOTICES AND POSTERS HAVE BEEN PUT UP IN ALL ESTATES AS A FURTHER REMINDER TO RESIDENTS TO CONSERVE WATER.
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APPEAL FOR RESPONSE TO EMPLOYMENT SURVEY
* * * *
OVER 25,000 ESTABLISHMENTS HAVE RETURNED THE SURVEY CARDS IN RESPONSE TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT’S SURVEY OF EMPLOYMENT IN IMPORT/EXPORT, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS.
THE COMMISSIONER FOR CENSUS AND STATISTICS EXPRESSED APPRECIATION FOR THE PROMPT RESPONSE BY THESE ESTABLISHMENTS, AND APPEALED TO OTHERS WHO HAVE NOT YET RETURNED THE SURVEY CARDS TO DO SO QUICKLY SO AS TO ENABLE EARLY RELEASE OF SURVEY RESULTS.
REMINDER LETTERS WITH COPIES OF SURVEY CARDS HAVE BEEN SENT TO ESTABLISHMENTS WHICH HAVE NOT YET RESPONDED TO THE SURVEY. MANAGEMENTS ARE URGED TO COMPLETE THE CARDS AND TO RETURN THEM IMMEDIATELY TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT USING THE POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPES PROVIDED.
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SUNDAY, JUNE 26, 1977
- 3 -GOVERNOR VISITS WATCH FACTORY * * * K
THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, WILL BE PAYING ANOTHER VISIT TO A FACTORY TOMORROW (MONDAY) - HIS SECOND IN LESS THAN A WEEK. THIS TIME, SIR MURRAY VISITS A WATCH FACTORY, REMEX INTERNATIONAL LIMITED, AT WONG CHUK HANG, ABERDEEN.
THE GOVERNOR WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, MR. BILL DORWARD, AND A PRINCIPAL TRADE OFFICER OF THE INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BRANCH, MR. NICHOLAS YEK.
SUCH VISITS ARE UNDERTAKEN BY THE GOVERNOR PERIODICALLY IN ORDER THAT HE MIGHT SEE FOR HIMSELF SOMETHING OF HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT, AS WELL AS PROBLEMS.
REMEX INTERNATIONAL LIMITED WAS FORMED IN 1968 AND IS A MEMBER OF THE HERALD GROUP OF COMPANIES. IT IMPORTS COMPONENT PARTS OF WATCHES FROM SWITZERLAND, FRANCE AND GERMANY, AND ASSEMBLES THESE INTO COMPLETE MOVEMENTS. ITS ANNUAL PRODUCTION IS APPROXIMATELY 7-1/2 MILLION WATCH MOVEMENTS WHICH IS THE LARGEST PRODUCTION UNDER ONE ROOF - IN QUANTITY - ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD.
THE COMPANY SELLS ABOUT 65 PER CENT OF THE MOVEMENTS TO OTHER HONG KONG WATCH EXPORTERS AND 35 PER CENT TO THEIR OWN SUBSIDIARY, INTERNATIONAL PRECISION TIME LIMITED, WHICH CONVERTS THE MOVEMENTS INTO COMPLETE WATCHES AND EXPORTS THEM.
HONG KONG’S WATCH INDUSTRY HAS EXPANDED RAPIDLY IN RECENT YEARS, AND IS CURRENTLY ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING INDUSTRIES HERE.
AT THE END OF LAST YEAR, THERE WERE OVER 620 FACTORIES EMPLOYING MORE THAN 19,000 WORKERS, OR ABOUT 2.5 PER CENT, OF HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL WORKFORCE PRODUCING WATCHES, WATCH CASES, DIALS, METAL WATCH BANDS AND ASSEMBLED WATCH MOVEMENTS. AN INCREASING NUMBER OF FACTORIES ARE ALSO MANUFACTURING ELECTRONIC DIGITAL QUARTZ WATCHES.
IN 1976, HONG KONG’S DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF WATCHES, WATCH PARTS AND ACCESSORIES WERE VALUED AT HK$1,264 MILLION, AN INCREASE OF. 72 PER CENT OVER 1975. IN THE FIRST FOUR MONTHS OF 1977 DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCREASED BY OVER 29 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
THE UNITED STATES AND SWITZERLAND ARE HONG KONG’S MAJOR MARKETS. OTHER IMPORTANT MARKETS ARE THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, SINGAPORE AND JAPAN.
SIR MURRAY WILL BE MET ON ARRIVAL AT REMEX INTERNATIONAL LIMITED BY THE COMPANY’S CHAIRMAN, MR. GEORGE BLOCH, MR. ADRIAN HOUTZAAGER (DIRECTOR), MR. AUSTIN LEE CHING CHANG (DIRECTOR) AND MR. ROGER TSUI HING SHING (FACTORY MANAGER).
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHER TO COVER THE VISIT. THE GOVERNOR ARRIVES AT THE FACTORY, AT YALLY INDUSTRIAL BUILDING, NO. 6, YIP FAT STREET, WONG CHUK HANG, AT 2.50 P.M. YOU REPRESENTATIVE IS ADVISED TO ARRIVE A LITTLE EARLIER.
SUNDAY, JUNE 26, 1977
4
MAY — A CRUCIAL MONTH FOR STUDENTS AND PRINTING DEPARTMENT *****
MAY HAD BEEN A CRUCIAL MONTH FOR MANY STUDENTS AND THE PRINTING DEPARTMENT BECAUSE BOTH HAD TO FACE THE SECONDARY SCHOOL ENTRANCE EXAMINATION AND THE CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION.
EVERY YEAR, THE PRINTING DEPARTMENT MUST HAVE READY BEFORE THIS TIME ALL THE QUESTION PAPERS, ANSWER BOOKS AND OTHER STATIONERY FOR THE TWO EXAMINATIONS.
USUALLY THE DEPARTMENT STARTS PRINTING IN LATE JANUARY, TAKING 3-1/2 TO FOUR MONTHS TO COMPLETE THE WORK.
MR. DENNIS RICK, ASSISTANT GOVERNMENT PRINTER, SAID THAT THIS YEAR A TOTAL OF 51 STAFF, FIVE OFFSET PRINTING MACHINES AND A VARIETY OF SOPHISTICATED BINDING AND FINISHING EQUIPMENT WERE USED. IN TERMS OF PAPER, QUESTION SHEETS ALONE REQUIRED 68,524 KG. (67.3 TONS) OF PAPER.
FOR THE SECONDARY SCHOOL ENTRANCE EXAMINATION, 353,400 COPIES OF QUESTION PAPERS, RUNNING INTO SOME 7,065,000 PAGES, WERE PRINTED.
IN ADDITION, THERE WERE 2,266,180 ANSWER BOOKS, NUMEROUS SUPPLEMENTARY ANSWER SHEETS, ROUGH WORK SHEETS AND VARIOUS KINDS OF STATIONERY, MR. RICK POINTED OUT.
JUST LIKE THE STUDENTS, THE PRINTING DEPARTMENT IN FACT, STARTS PREPARING FOR THE SSEE LONG BEFORE THE EXAMINATION STARTS. IT HAS TO PRODUCE FOR EVERY SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE THE CHOICE-OF-SCHOOL FORM.
MR. RICK EXPLAINED THAT THE PRINTING OF THE CHO ICE-OF-SCHOOL FORM IS A METICULOUS JOB BECAUSE NOT ONLY DOES THE FORM PROVIDE DETAILED INFORMATION ON THE VARIOUS TYPES OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS AVAILABLE, IT HAS TO BE APPENDED WITH A MAP SHOWING THE LOCATION OF EACH SCHOOL.
FOR THE CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION, THE PRINTING DEPARTMENT FACED THE CHALLENGING TASK OF MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF 20 MULTIPLE CHOICE PAPERS AND 100 CONVENTIONAL PAPERS WHICH ADDED UP TO 1,381,380 COPIES OF QUESTION PAPERS OR SOME 15,087,560 PAGES, ALL PRODUCED IN CONDITIONS OF STRICT SECURITY.
THE INTRODUCTION OF MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS IN EXAMINATIONS HAS INCREASED THE PRINTING WORK BY MORE THAN HALF BUT THE COMMITMENTS ARE BEING SUCCESSFULLY FULFILLED BY CAREFUL COORDINATION BETWEEN THE PRINTING DEPARTMENT AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
THE FORM THAT THE PAPERS AND THE STATIONERY SHOULD TAKE AS WELL AS THE PACKAGING OF THE FINISHED PRODUCTS ARE CARRIED OUT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SPECIFICATIONS GIVEN BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
/THE EDUCATION .....
SUNDAY, JUNE 26, 1977
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT THEN COLLECTS THE ITEMS ONE BY ONE AS EACH BECOMES AVAILABLE.
AS FOR SURPLUS COPIES AND THOSE WHICH ARE DAMAGED IN THE PROCESS OF BEING PRINTED, THEY ARE PACKED AND SEALED AND EVENTUALLY DESTROYED BY FIRE AFTER THE ANNOUNCEMENTS OF EXAMINATION RESULTS HAVE BEEN MADE.
THIS IS NOT ALL. THE PRINTING DEPARTMENT IS ALSO RESPONSIBLE FOR THE PRINTING OF EXAMINATION PAPERS FOR THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY MATRICULATION EXAMINATIONS, THE ATTAINMENT AND ABILITY TESTS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND THE INTERNAL EXAMINATIONS OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
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HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS FOR MARINE DEPARTMENT
*****
THE MARINE DEPARTMENT HAS ANNOUNCED THAT THE WAN CHAI AND THE YAU MA TEI PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREAS, AND THE PORT COMMUNICATIONS CENTRE WILL BE OPEN AS USUAL ON FRIDAY (JULY 1) WHICH IS A GENERAL HOLIDAY.
THE MACAU FERRY WHARF UNIT OFFICES WILL ALSO BE OPEN FROM 7.30 A.M. TO 1.30 A.M. ON THE FOLLOWING DAY.
ALL OTHER OFFICES OF THE DEPARTMENT WILL BE CLOSED DURING THE HOLIDAY.
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PRH 7
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
MONDAY, JUNE 27, 1977
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR TOURS ABERDEEN .................................... 1
MORE TRADE UNIONS ON REGISTER .............................. 2
416 VIETNAMESE REFUGEES CAME LAST 12 MONTHS ................ 3
FIXED PITCH HAWKING SITES IN UN CHAU STREET ................ 3
EXPERIMENTAL ART AND DESIGN EXHIBITION ..................... 4
POSTAL ARRANGEMENTS ON JULY 1 .............................. 4
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
MONDAY, JUNE 27, 1977
1
GOVERNOR INSPECTS DEVELOPMENTS IN ABERDEEN * * * *
THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, THIS AFTERNOON VISITED WONG CHUK HANG AND ABERDEEN TO SEE THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN THE DISTRICT.
THE TOUR INCLUDED A VISIT TO A WATCH FACTORY, A COMPREHENSIVE BRIEFING AT A LOOK-CUT POINT BY THE CITY DISTRICT OFFICER AND A MEETING WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF LOCAL RESIDENTS AND INDUSTRIALISTS.
IN THE COMPANY OF THE DIRECTOR OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, MR. BILL DORWARD, SIR MURRAY SAW THE OPERATION OF REMEX INTERNATIONAL LIMITED - A WATCH FACTORY AT YIP FAT STREET IN WONG CHUK HANG.
THE FACTORY ASSEMBLES COMPONENT WATCH PARTS WHICH IT IMPORTS FROM SWITZERLAND, FRANCE AND GERMANY, INTO COMPLETE MOVEMENTS, PRODUCING SOME 7-1/2 MILLION SUCH MOVEMENTS A YEAR MOSTLY FOR LOCAL WATCH EXPORTERS.
ALONG WITH ITS SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES, IT EMPLOYS NEARLY 1,000 WORKERS AND STAFF, AMONG WHOM ARE A NUMBER OF HANDICAPPED PERSONS.
AT THE END OF A BRIEF DISCUSSION WITH COMPANY OFFICIALS, THE GOVERNOR LEFT THE FACTORY FOR A LOOK-OUT POINT ON THE ROOFTOP OF BLOCK 4, SHEK PAI WAN ESTATE, WHERE HE COULD SURVEY MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS AND SOME OF THE PROBLEMS BEING TACKLED IN THE DISTRICT.
ACCOMPANIED BY THE DIRECTOR OF HOME AFFAIRS, MR.
AUGUSTINE CHUI, SIR MURRAY WAS BRIEFED BY THE CDO (SOUTHERN) MR. WILLIAM YAP, ON THE PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE PLANNED FOR APLICHAU, WHICH WILL COMMENCE WORK NEXT MONTH AND WILL EVENTUALLY PROVIDE ABOUT 3,700 FLATS FOR 20,000 PEOPLE.
COMPLETION OF PHASE I OF THE ESTATE WILL TIE IN WITH THAT OF APLICHAU BRIDGE, WHICH IS ALSO EXPECTED TO COMMENCE WORK NEXT MONTH.
WHEN IT IS OPENED IN TWO YEARS’ TIME, THE 377 FT. BRIDGE wILL LINK APLICHAU WITH THE CENTRAL COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL AREA OF ABERDEEN AND OPEN UP THE ISLAND FOR FURTHER DEVELOPMENT.
SIR MURRAY WAS BRIEFED ON THE EXISTING CONGESTION IN ABERDEEN HARBOUR AND THE PLANNED RELOCATION OF THE THREE FLOATING RESTAURANTS TO SHUM WAN. HE ASKED ABOUT THE DIFFERENT PHASES OF RECLAMATION OF THE ABERDEEN AND APLICHAU SHORE AREAS AND THE ARRANGEMENTS PLANNED FOR THOSE AFFECTED BY CLEARANCES.
/THE GOVERNOR ....
MONDAY, JUNE 27, 1977
2
THE GOVERNOR WAS ALSO FILLED IN WITH DETAILS OF A PLAN TO REPROVIDE THE EXISTING OLD MARKET AT ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD TO A NEW MULTI-STOREY BUILDING WHICH WILL INCORPORATE A BUS TERMINAL ON THE GROUND FLOOR AND CAR PARKS AND OFFICES ON THE UPPER FLOORS, AS WELL AS ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS TO FACILITATE ACCESS TO THE TOWN, INCLUDING ABERDEEN TUNNEL.
BEFORE CONCLUDING HIS VISIT, SIR MURRAY ATTENDED A MEETING WITH AREA AND MUTUAL AID COMM ITTEES’CHA IRMEN, LOCAL INDUSTRIALISTS AND A FISHERMEN LEADER AT THE CITY DISTRICT OFFICE. HE HAD A LONG DISCUSSION WITH THEM ON DEVELOPMENTS AND PROBLEMS THEY ENCOUNTER IN THE DISTRICT.
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TRADE UNION MEMBERSHIP GROWING X * K *
A TOTAL OF 367 TRADE UNIONS WITH A DECLARED MEMBERSHIP OF 398,525 WERE ON THE REGISTER BY THE END OF LAST CALENDAR YEAR.
ACCORDING TO FIGURES RELEASED BY THE REGISTRAR OF TRADE UNIONS, THIS REPRESENTED AN INCREASE OF 26,271 OR ABOUT 6.6 PER CENT IN UNION MEMBERSHIP OVER THE PREVIOUS YEAR.
THE NUMBER OF WOMEN MEMBERS CONTINUED TO GROW AND AT THE END OF DECEMBER LAST YEAR, THE TOTAL OF WOMEN UNIONISTS STOOD AT 86,447, WHICH REPRESENTED AN INCREASE OF 9,626 WHEN COMPARED WITH THE PREVIOUS YEAR'S FIGURE OF 76,821.
HOWEVER, BY THE END OF THE LAST FINANCIAL YEAR WHICH ENDED ON MARCH 31, THERE WERE A TOTAL OF 371 REGISTERED TRADE UNIONS. THESE COMPRISED 314 EMPLOYEE’S UNIONS, 44 ASSOCIATIONS OF EMPLOYERS, 12 MIXED ORGANISATIONS OF EMPLOYEES AND EMPLOYERS AND ONE TRADE UNION FEDERATION.
DURING THE FISCAL YEAR, 15 NEW UNIONS WERE REGISTERED AND . TWO WERE DE-REGISTERED.
IN THE SAME YEAR, 648 INTERVIEWS WERE CONDUCTED WITH TRADE UNION OFFICIALS AND OTHER MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC. THE SUBJECTS DEALT WITH IN THESE INTERVIEWS WERE MAINLY ADVICE ON FORMATION OF NEW UNIONS, HARMONISING THE RULES OF NEW UNIONS WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE ORDINANCE, CLARIFICATION OF PROPOSED UNIONS, ELIGIBILITY OF UNION OFFICERS, DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS AND GENERAL BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON LOCAL TRADE UNIONISM.
ALSO, THE REGISTRAR AS WELL AS OTHER DEPARTMENTAL OFFICERS WERE INVITED TO GIVE TALKS ON THE TRADE UNIONS ORDINANCE AND TRADE UNION MOVEMENT IN HONG KONG AT TRAINING COURSES ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY CENTRE, THE HONG KONG CHINESE CIVIL SERVANTS’ ASSOCIATION, THE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON TRADES UNION COUNCIL AND THE EXTRA MURAL DEPARTMENT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG.
STAFF OF THE DEPARTMENT ALSO CARRIED OUT INSPECTIONS OF ACCOUNT BOOKS AND REGISTERS OF MEMBERS AT 95 UNION PREMISES, SIX OF WHICH BEING UNION BRANCHES, TO ENSURE FUNDS WERE BEING CORRECTLY BROUGHT TO ACCOUNT AND TO GIVE ON-THE-SPOT PRACTICAL ADVICE, WHERE NECESSARY, TO REMEDY ANY ACCOUNTING OR ADMINISTRATIVE DEFECTS DISCOVERED.
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MONDAY, JUNE 27, 1977
3
MORE THAN 400 REFUGEES ARRIVED IN HK OVER LAST 12 MONTHS
********
IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS, 416 REFUGEES FROM VIETNAM HAVE ARRIVED IN HONG KONG. THEY EITHER WERE PICKED UP AT SEA BY OCEAN-GOING VESSELS OR ARRIVED IN THEIR OWN MOTORISED JUNKS.
OF THIS NUMBER, 191 HAVE ALREADY LEFT HONG KONG FOR OTHER COUNTRIES AND 225 ARE STILL AWAITING RESETTLEMENT. ALL OF THESE 225 ARRIVED WITHIN THE LAST TWO MONTHS. THEY ARE BEING CARED FOR IN HONG KONG UNDER ARRANGEMENTS MADE BY THE UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSION FOR REFUGEES, WHICH IS ALSO ARRANGING THEIR ONWARD MOVEMENTS.
UNDER ARRANGEMENTS MADE BY UNHCR, THE REFUGEES ARE BEING ALLOWED TO STAY IN HONG KONG FOR THREE MONTHS AND, SO FAR, ALL OF THEM HAVE BEEN ABLE TO LEAVE WITHIN THIS PERIOD.
THE DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION TODAY (MONDAY) EMPHASISED THAT THESE REFUGEES ARE IN HONG KONG ONLY IN TRANSIT AND ARE NOT ALLOWED TO STAY PERMANENTLY.
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FIXED PITCH HAWKING SITES IN UN CHAU STREET
*****
TWO FIXED PITCH HAWKING SITES HAVE BEEN PROPOSED FOR PARTS'OF THE PAVEMENT IN UN CHAU STREET, SHAM SHU I PO FROM SATURDAY (JULY 2).
THIS WILL ENABLE TWO LICENSED FIXED PITCH NEWSPAPER HAWKERS TO TRADE ON THE PAVEMENT IN FRONT OF HOUSE NOS. 406 AND 408 THERE.
THE DECLARATION OF THE HAWKER PERMITTED AREA IS MADE BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT UNDER A SECTION OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND URBAN SERVICES ORDINANCE.
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MONlV* JUNE 27» ^77
4
PILOT SCHEME s EXPERIMENTAL PROJECT IN ART AND DEb.,<3N
AN EXHIBITION OF WORK IN THE WIDE FIELD OF ART AND DESIGN, EMBRACING FINE ART AND PRACTICAL DESIGN IN TWO AND THREE DIMENSIONAL FORM, WILL BE HELD AT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S CULTURAL CRAFTS CENTRE IN NORTH POINT FROM WEDNESDAY (JUNE 29) TO JULY 22.
THE EXHIBITS HAVE ALL BEEN MADE BY STUDENTS IN FORMS 1 TO 3
OF 31 SCHOOLS PART ICIPATI NG IN A PILOT SCHEME t EXPERIMENTAL PROJECT IN ART AND DESIGN FOR THE 1976/77 SCHOOL YEAR SPONSORED BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
THE PURPOSE BEHIND THE PILOT SCHEME IS TO ENCOURAGE PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS TO EXPERIMENT WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF DIFFERENT MATERIALS IN ART AND DESIGN LESSONS AND TO STIMULATE STUDENTS’ INTEREST IN PRODUCING REALISTIC OR IMAGINATIVE WORK.
THE SCHOOLS PARTICIPATING IN THE PILOT SCHEME ARE OF ALL TYRES — GOVERNMENT, AIDED AND PRIVATE- URBAN AND RURAL-COEDUCATIONAL AND NON-COEDUCATIONAL.
THE EXHIBITS ON DISPLAY ARE VARIED AND INTERESTING AND ARE A CLEAR INDICATION OF WHAT CAN BE ACHIEVED IN THE TEACHING OF ART AND DESIGN WITH STUDENTS IN THE 12-15 AGE RANGE.
THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR. KENNETH TOPLEY, AND HEADS OF PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS WILL ATTEND A PREVIEW OF THE EXHIBITION AT 3.30 P.M. TOMORROW.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WISHING TO VIEW THE EXHIBITION A'RE INVITED TO DO SO BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 9 A.M. - 1 P.M. AND 2 P.M. -5 P.M. FROM JUNE 29 TO JULY 22. THE EXHIBITION WILL ALSO BE OPEN DURING THIS PERIOD ON SATURDAY MORNINGS FROM 9 TO NOON.
NOTE TO EDITORS :
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE PREVIEW AT 3.30 P.M. TOMORROW AT THE CULTURAL CRAFTS CENTRE, 4 BAK FUK ROAD, 4TH AND 5TH FLOORS, NORTH POINT.
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HOLIDAY POSTAL ARRANGEMENTS * * *
THE POST OFFICE ANNOUNCED TODAY THAT THERE WOULD UE NO MAIL DELIVERY AND ALL POST OFFICES WOULD BE CLOSED ON FRIDAY, JULY 1, WHICH IS A GENERAL HOLIDAY.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
TEN HOURS DAILY WATER SUPPLY FROM TUESDAY ................... 1
REASONS FOR NOT APPOINTING MARINE COURT IN COLLISION ........ 4
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TOMORROW ........................ 5
BOYS IN CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS GAIN AWARDS ............... 6
TECHNICAL TEACHERS’ COLLEGE HOLDS EXHIBITION ................ 6
TAI WONG LANE BUILDING DECLARED DANGEROUS ................... 7
ENTRY FOR LONDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY EXAMS .. 7
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 1977.
FURTHER WATER RESTRICTIONS FROM NEXT TUESDAY ******
THE SECOND PHASE OF HONG KONG’S WATER RESTRICTIONS — REDUCING SUPPLY TO TEN HOURS A DAY — WILL COME INTO FORCE NEXT TUESDAY (JULY 5).
ANNOUNCING THIS AT TODAY’S LUNCHEON OF THE KIWANIS CLUB IN CENTRAL, THE P.W.D.’S DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES, MR. WILLIAM TUCKER, SAID THE REDUCED SUPPLY WOULD BE DIVIDED BETWEEN A FOUR-HOUR MORNING PERIOD AND A SIX-HOUR EVENING PERIOD.
THE MORNING HOURS OF SUPPLY WOULD BE FROM 6 A.M. TO 10 A.M., WITH THE SECOND SUPPLY PERIOD COMING BETWEEN 4 AND 10 IN THE EVENING
MR. TUCKER SAID THE DELIVERY HOURS HAD BEEN SELECTED IN CONSULTATION WITH THE HOME AFFAIRS BRANCH AS THE MOST CONVENIENT FOR THE MAJORITY OF THE PUBLIC.
THEY WOULD REMAIN IN FORCE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
+A<S IN THE FIRST PHASE OF RESTRICTIONS, A 24-HOUR SUPPLY WILL BE MAINTAINTED TO INDUSTRIAL AREAS,+ MR. TUCKER SAID. +IF INDUSTRIALISTS OUTSIDE THESE AREAS EXPERIENCE ANY PROBLEMS, THEY MAY RING 5-225011 EXT. 2808, THE LINE ESTABLISHED FOR THIS PURPOSE ON THE INTRODUCTION OF THE FIRST PHASE OF RESTR ICT IONS.+
MR. TUCKER SAID THE INTRODUCTION OF THE SECOND STAGE OF THE RESTRICTIONS HAD BEEN DELAYED AS LONG AS POSSIBLE, BUT FURTHER DELAY WOULD BE UNWISE.
HE SAID ANOTHER 5,000 MILLION GALLONS WERE NEEDED IN THE RESERVOIRS IF THE SECOND STAGE OF RESTRICTIONS WERE TO BE POSTPONED ANY FURTHER.
TO ACHIEVE THIS NOW, EXTREMELY HEAVY RAINSTORMS WOULD BE NEEDED BY THE BEGINNING OF NEXT WEEK, AND ON PRESENT PREDICTIONS THE PROSPECTS OF OBTAINING THIS AMOUNT OF WATER — WHICH WOULD BRING RESERVOIRS LEVELS TO ABOUT 35,000 MILLION GALLONS — WERE REMOTE.
WITHOUT 35,000 MILLION GALLONS IN THE RESERVOIRS BY NEXT MONDAY, THE SECOND STAGE OF RESTRICTIONS WOULD BE INEVITABLE.
MR. TUCKER SAID THAT THE FIRST STAGE RESTRICTIONS INTRODUCED AT THE BEGINNING OF JUNE, TOGETHER WITH THE RESPONSE OF THE PUBLIC TO THE +SAVE WATER+ CAMPAIGN, HAD ACHIEVED THE 10 PER CENT REDUCTION IN JUNE CONSUMPTION AIMED FOR IN THE LIGHT OF THE SITUATION AS IT STOOD AT THE END OF MAY.
/BUT AT THAT
TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 1977
2
BUT AT THAT TIME IT HAD BEEN HOPED THAT GOOD JUNE RAINFALLS WOULD BRING ABOUT A MARKED INCREASE IN TOTAL RESERVOIR STORAGE — AS WAS USUAL WITH THE ONSET OF THE WET SEASON.
+HOWEVER, SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE MONTH,+ MR. TUCKER SAID, +THERE HAVE BEEN ONLY 234 MM OF RAINFALL REGISTERED AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY, COMPARED WITH A LONG-TERM AVERAGE OF 401 MM.+
AND THE ACTUAL YIELD TO RESERVOIRS DURING THE PERIOD WAS ONLY 2,024 MILLION GALLONS.
THE EFFECT OF THIS VERY LOW YIELD HAD BEEN THAT — AT A TIME WHEN STORAGE SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCREASING SHARPLY — IT HAD IN FACT FALLEN.
SINCE RESTRICTIONS HAD BEEN INTRODUCED ON JUNE 1, TOTAL STORAGE HAD FALLEN FROM 31,488 MILLION GALLONS TO TODAY’S 30,034 MILLION GALLONS.
TODAY’S RESERVOIR STORAGE — REPRESENTING 44.6 PER CENT OF CAPACITY — WAS THE LOWEST EXPERIENCED AT THIS TIME OF YEAR FOR FIVE YEARS.
AT THE SAME TIME LAST YEAR, THE STORAGE WAS 52,698 MILLION GALLONS OR 78.3 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
MR. TUCKER SA IDs +IT HAS BEEN NECESSARY, THEREFORE, TO REASSESS THE SITUATION IN THE LIGHT OF PRESENT STORAGE AND ANTICIPATED DEMANDS — NOT ONLY DEMANDS IN THE REMAINDER OF THE SUMMER, BUT ALSO IN THE DRY WINTER MONTHS AHEAD.*
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE RAINFALL SINCE OCTOBER LAST YEAR HAD BEEN SOME 480 MM BELOW AVERAGE AND THIS, COUPLED WITH THE DEMAND FOR WATER, HAD GIVEN RISE TO THE PRESENT, UNFAVOURABLE STORAGE POSITION.
♦TOGETHER, THESE HAVE ERODED OUR RESERVES TO AN EXTENT WHERE THE CONTINUATION OF A 16 HOURS A DAY SUPPLY CAN NO LONGER BE JUSTIFIED IF THE RISK OF IMPOSING SEVERE RESTRICTIONS IN THE COMING WINTER IS TO BE AVOIDED,* HE SAID.
MR. TUCKER SAID THAT IT WAS HOPED THAT THE NEW CUTS TO BE IMPOSED NEXT WEEK WOULD REDUCE CONSUMPTION BY A FURTHER 10 PER CENT, AND SAID THAT TO DO THIS THE CO-OPERATION OF THE PUBLIC WOULD BE VITAL.
+T0 THIS END THE CAMPAIGN ON SAVING WATER HAS BEEN STEPPED UP,* HE SAID.
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT HAD ALREADY WITHDRAWN PERMISSION FOR MAINS SUPPLIES TO PRIVATE GARDENS, DISPLAY FOUNTAINS AND PRIVATE SWIMMING POOLS.
/*ELL.......
TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 1977
3 -
WELL. NULLAH AND STREAM WATER WAS NOW BEING USED FOR THE WATERING OF PUBLIC GARDENS WHEREVER AVAILABLE, AND THE PLANTING OF FLOWERS AND SHRUBS HAS BEEN STOPPED IN ORDER TO CONSERVE WATER.
+FOR HEALTH REASONS,* MR. TUCKER SAID, +WATER IS STILL SUPPLIED FOR WASHING DOWN REFUSE COLLECTING POINTS, MARKETS, HAWKERS BAZAARS, COMMON AREAS AND STAIR WAYS OF BUILDINGS, BUT THE MANAGEMENTS CONCERNED HAVE BEEN CAUTIONED TO EXERCISE MAXIMUM POSSIBLE ECONOMY IN THE WASHING OPERATION.*
IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN RECREATIONAL FACILITIES TO THE PUBLIC, HE SAID WATER WAS STILL SUPPLIED TO PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS FOR TOPPING UP PURPOSES ONLY.
HOWEVER, HE ADDED THAT THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAD BEEN ADVISED TO TAKE ALL POSSIBLE STEPS TO MINIMISE THE QUANTITY OF WATER USED FOR SUCH PURPOSES.
MR, TUCKER SAID* +THE U.S.D. HAS ALREADY STOPPED USING MAINS WATER FOR WASHING THEIR VEHICLES, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF A FEW VEHICLES WHICH REQUIRE WASHING FOR REASONS OF HYGIENE.
*A SIMILAR BAN IS NOW BEING IMPOSED ON ALL REMAINING GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC VEHICLES, AND IN THIS CONNECTION PRIVATE CAR OWNERS SHOULD ALSO CONTRIBUTE BY RE-USING HOUSEHOLD WATER TO WASH THEIR CARS.*
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TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 1977
4
APPOINTMENT OF MARINE COURT EXPLAINED
*******
THE REPORT OF THE PRELIMINARY INQUIRY CONDUCTED INTO THE CIRCUMSTANCES SURROUNDING THE COLLISION LAST MARCH BETWEEN THE FERRY, MAN TAK, AND THE HYDROFOIL, FLYING ALBATROSS, INDICATED THAT THE DEGREE OF ERROR ON THE PART OF THE MASTERS OF THE SHIPS INVOLVED WAS INSUFFICIENT TO WARRANT CHARGES OF SERIOUS INCOMPETENCE OR MISCONDUCT.
IT ALSO INDICATED THAT THERE WERE NO DEFECTS IN THE DESIGN OR CONSTRUCTION OF THE VESSELS OR DEFICIENCIES IN THE EQUIPMENT, A MARINE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY.
BECAUSE THE FINDINGS OF THE PRELIMINARY INQUIRY WERE CONCLUSIVE, THE GOVERNOR DECIDED NOT TO APPOINT A MARINE COURT, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE PURPOSE OF A MARINE COURT IS :
* TO INVESTIGATE ANY CHARGES OF SERIOUS MISCONDUCT, NEGLIGENCE OR INCOMPETENCE WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN MADE IN THE PRELIMINARY INQUIRY REPORT AND, IF NECESSARY, ORDER THE CANCELLATION OR SUSPENSION OF THE CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY OF ANY MASTER, MATE OR ENGINEER CONCERNED*
* TO DETERMINE WHETHER ANY FAULT IN THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION OR EQUIPMENT OF THE VESSEL CONCERNED WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CASUALTY AND TO MAKE SUCH RECOMMENDATIONS AS WOULD APPEAR NECESSARY TO PREVENT THE OCCURRENCE OF SIMILAR CASUALTIES IN THE FUTURE* AND
* WHERE THERE HAS BEEN LOSS OF LIFE, TO DETERMINE THE CAUSES OF SUCH LOSS AND THE MEASURES NECESSARY TO PREVENT SIMILAR LOSSES IN THE FUTURE.
THE SPOKESMAN EMPHASISED THAT IT IS NOT THE NORMAL PRACTICE, EITHER IN THE UNITED KINGDOM OR IN HONG KONG, TO MAKE A FULL PUBLIC DISCLOSURE OF FACTS ELICITED IN THE COURSE OF A PRELIMINARY INQUIRY.
HOWEVER, IF FAULTS OR INADEQUACIES IN ANY MARINE PROCEDURES ARE REVEALED IN THE COURSE OF A PRELIMINARY INQUIRY, THESE ARE NORMALLY MADE THE SUBJECT OF GENERAL MARINE DEPARTMENT NOTICES WHICH ARE ISSUED FROM TIME TO TIME BY THE DIRECTOR, HE ADDED.
/5
TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 1977
5
LEGCO MEETING TOMORROW * * * *
EIGHTEEN QUESTIONS, INCLUDING GOVERNMENT MEASURES TO IMPROVE THE HYGIENIC CONDITIONS AT KWAI SHING WAI AND OTHER SIMILAR AREAS, WILL BE RAISED BY THE UNOFFICIALS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TOMORROW.
THERE WILL BE QUESTIONS ON GOVERNMENT ACTIONS TO PREVENT LOSS OF WATER FROM FAULTY UNDERGROUND WATER MAINS, PORT HEALTH REQUIREMENTS FOR VISITORS FROM CHOLERA AFFECTED AREAS, AND INSPECTION OF UNDERGROUND MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY WORKS BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.
THE GOVERNMENT WILL ALSO BE ASKED IF IT WILL MAKE A STATEMENT ON A RECENT FISHING BOAT INCIDENT IN WHICH A FISHERMAN WAS KILLED AND SEVERAL INJURED, AND WILL BE URGED TO MAKE ANOTHER STATEMENT AS SOON AS PRACTICABLE ON THE ALLEGED MISMANAGEMENT OF FUNDS IN A GOVERNMENT-AIDED SECONDARY SCHOOL.
OTHER MATTERS TO BE RAISED DURING QUESTION TIME INCLUDE PROGRESS ON RECRUITING CANTONESE-SPEAKING MAGISTRATES, LEGISLATION ON ACCESS TO PERSONAL INFORMATION KEPT IN COMPUTER BANKS, CONTROL OVER UNDESIRABLE ADVERTISEMENTS IN THE CHINESE PRESS, PARTICULARLY MEDICAL ADVERTISEMENTS, SHORTER WAITING TIME AND BETTER WAITING FACILITIES AT OUT-PATIENT CLINICS.
QUESTIONS WILL ALSO BE ASKED ON ALLOCATION OF MARKET STALLS FOR LICENSED HAWKERS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, POSSIBILITY OF AN EVENING SESSION IN THE KOWLOON CHEST CLINIC, CONTROL OVER THE HIRING OF MOTOR CYCLES, AND THE POSSIBILITY OF TABLING ALL WRITTEN ANSWERS TO SUPPLEMENTARY QUESTIONS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE BILL 1977 AND THE FIXED PENALTY (TRAFFIC CONTRAVENTIONS) (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977 WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READING.
DEBATE WILL RESUME ON EIGHT BILLS, INCLUDING THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO. 4) BILL 1977, WHICH SEEKS BETTER WAGE PROTECTION .FOR CONSTRUCTION WORKERS.
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TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 1977
- 6
DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD FOR 53 BOYS ******
A TOTAL OF 53 BOYS FROM THE FOUR SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT’S CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS WERE PRESENTED WITH THEIR DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD BRONZE CERTIFICATES THIS (TUESDAY) MORNING.
THEY COMPRISED 12 MEMBERS FROM THE BEGONIA ROAD BOYS’ HOME, 12 FROM THE CASTLE PEAK BOYS’ HOME, 17 FROM KWUN TONG HOSTEL AND 12 FROM THE 0 PUI SHAN BOYS’ HOME.
ALL HAVE UNDERGONE AT LEAST SIX MONTHS’ PRACTICAL TRAINING ON SERVICE, EXPEDITIONS, INTEREST DESIGN FOR LIVING AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES.
IN THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY, MR. I.A. RAMSAY, JUVENILE COURT MAGISTRATE, ENCOURAGED THE BOYS OF THE HOMES TO WORK HARD AND TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE TRAINING FOR THEIR RE-INTEGRATION BACK TO THE COMMUNITY.
GUESTS INVITED WERE MAGISTRATES, JUSTICES OF THE PEACE, CIVIC AND KAIFONG LEADERS, PROBATION OFFICERS AND OTHER SENIOR GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS.
FOLLOWING THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY, THE BOYS FROM THE VARIOUS HOMES GAVE PERFORMANCES ON GYMNASTIC DISPLAY, LIFE-SAVING LAND DRILL AND FIRST-AID DEMONSTRATION.
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♦DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY+ EXHIBITION AT THE HONG KONG TECHNICAL TEACHERS’ COLLEGE *****
THE HONG KONG TECHNICAL TEACHERS’ COLLEGE DEPARTMENT OF DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY WILL HOLD AN EXHIBITION AT THE COLLEGE PREMISES, 373, QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI, ON THURSDAY (JUNE 30) FROM 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M.
THE EXHIBITION, IN SUPPORT OF THE MODERN TREND OF TEACHING TECHNIQUES, IS ONE IN THE SERIES OF PROGRAMMES PLANNED AT PROMOTING fHE TEACHING OF DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY IN SECONDARY SCHOOL EDUCATION.
THIS PARTICULAR EXHIBITION IS AIMED AT INTRODUCING TO THE PUBLIC THE +LEARNING PROCESS* INVOLVED WHEN TEACHING THE SUBJECT. DETAILED ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE PHASES AND STAGES WHICH SCHOOL CHILDREN ARE EXPECTED TO EXPERIENCE WILL BE DEMONSTRATED IN THE FORM OF CHARTS AND FILM-SLIDES. PRODUCTS OF WORK COLLECTED DURING THE RECENT TEACHING PRACTICE AT 17 SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN HONG KONG WILL ALSO BE ON DISPLAY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE EXHIBITION WHICH STARTS FROM 10 A.M. AT THE COLLEGE PREMISES, 373, QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI, ON JUNE 30.
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TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 1977
7
TAI WONG LANE BUILDING DANGEROUS ******
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY TODAY DECLARED THE BUILDING AT NO. 2 TAI WONG LANE, SHAU KEI WAN, TO BE IN A DANGEROUS CONDITION.
AN ORDER FOR ITS TEMPORARY CLOSURE HAS BEEN APPROVED BY COURT THIS AFTERNOON.
IN A STATEMENT THE PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT BUILDING SURVEYOR SAID THAT THE TWO-STOREY BUILDING HAD BEEN AFFECTED BY FIRE AND THE WOODEN MEMBERS SUPPORTING THE FIRST FLOOR WERE NOW IN A DANGEROUS CONDITION.
+ONCE THE REPAIR ORDER HAS BEEN COMPLIED WITH IT IS EXPECTED TO RAISE THE CLOSURE ORDER AND ALLOW THE OCCUPANTS TO RETURN,+ HE SAID.
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LONDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY EXAMS *****
THE NEXT LONDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY EXAMINATIONS TO BE HELD IN HONG KONG WILL TAKE PLACE BETWEEN NOVEMBER 28 AND DECEMBER 7 THIS YEAR.
THE SUBJECTS INVOLVED ARE COSTING, ACCOUNTING AND BOOK-KEEPING AT VARIOUS LEVELS AND THE ENTRY FEES RANGE FROM $28 TO $36.
CANDIDATES PREPARING FOR THE EXAMINATION BY ATTENDING COURSES IN SCHOOLS SHOULD REGISTER THROUGH THEIR SCHOOLS WHILE CANDIDATES NOT REPRESENTED BY SCHOOLS MAY APPLY AS PRIVATE CANDIDATES.
ENTRY FORMS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES, TENTH FLOOR, KOWLOON FROM MONDAY (JULY 4) TO FRIDAY (JULY 8).
COMPLETED ENTRY FORMS FOR PRIVATE CANDIDATES, ALONG WITH PROOF OF IDENTITY (HONG KONG IDENTITY CARD OR PASSPORT) AND TWO RECENT PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE APPLICANT MUST BE SUBMITTED IN PERSON, AT THE ABOVE ADDRESS, BETWEEN 9 A.M. AND 4 P.M. FROM JULY 4 TO 8.
CANDIDATES ARE ADVISED THAT NO LATE ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED. THE FEES MAY BE PAID TO THE EXAMINATIONS DIVISION, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ON THE 11TH FLOOR OF THE CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES NOT LATER THAN JULY 11.
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PRH 7
IgisI hmil
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
DOMESTIC EXPORTS UP BY 13 PER CENT LAST MONTH ............ 1
CLARIFICATION SOUGHT ON FRENCH TEXTILES RESTRICTIONS ..... 3
CONSTRUCTION WORKERS GIVEN BETTER WAGE PROTECTION ........ 4
SEVEN DAYS ANNUAL LEAVE BILL PASSED .....................
SQUATTER AREAS KEPT CLEAN BY USD ......................... 6
24-HOUR WATCH ON MAINS WATER LEAKS ....................... 7
JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE FACILITIES WITHIN 3 YEARS .......... 8
28 SQUADRON, RAF HONOURED WITH NEW STANDARD .............
SHORTER WAITING TIME AT OUT-PATIENT CLINICS ............. 11
POSSIBLE CONTROL OVER MOTORCYCLE HIRING ................. 12
GOVERNMENT SEEKING ADVICE ON PROTECTING COMPUTER INFORMATION 12
LOCAL MAGISTRATES NOT EASY TO RECRUIT.................... 13
HAWKERS ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR NEW NT MARKET STALLS .... 13
CONTROL ADEQUATE OVER UNDESIRABLE MEDICAL ADVERTISEMENTS ... 14
FULL REPORT MADE OF FISHING BOAT SHOOTING INCIDENT ...... 14
REGULAR UNDERGROUND INSPECTIONS AT MTR SITES ............ 15
TRANSFER OF ESSENTIAL SERVICES CORPS DUTIES ............. 15
GOVERNOR TO OPEN LAI CHI WO TELEPHONE EXCHANGE .......... 16
TEN BILLS PASSED THIRD READING .......................... 16
SECTION OF FAT HING STREET CLOSED TO TRAFFIC ............ 17
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
DOMESTIC EXPORTS FOR MAY UP 13 PER CENT OVER APRIL
*****
THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S DOMESTIC EXPORTS FOR MAY WAS $2,958 MILLION, IMPORTS WERE WORTH $4,177 MILLION AND RE-EXPORTS $822 MILLION.
ACCORDING TO PROVISIONAL TRADE FIGURES RELEASED TODAY BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, DOMESTIC EXPORTS WENT UP BY $340 MILLION OR 13 PER CENT, IMPORTS BY $47 MILLION OR 1.1 PER CENT AND RE-EXPORTS BY $103 MILLION OR 14.4 PER CENT COMPARED WITH APRIL.
COMPARED WITH THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR, DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCREASED BY 9.9 PER CENT, IMPORTS BY 10.8 PER CENT AND RE-EXPORTS BY 9.4 PER CENT.
THE FIGURES FOR THE PERIOD MARCH TO MAY ALSO SHOWED INCREASES BY VALUE OF 3.5 PER CENT FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS, 14 PER CENT FOR IMPORTS AND 6.9 PER CENT FOR RE-EXPORTS COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
THE FIGURES FOR THE 12-MONTH PERIOD FROM JUNE 1976 TO MAY 1977 COMPARED WITH THOSE OF THE PREVIOUS 12-MONTH PERIOD SHOWED INCREASES BY VALUE OF 24.5 PER CENT FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS, 19.7 PER CENT FOR IMPORTS AND 17.6 PER CENT FOR RE-EXPORTS.
THE FOLLOWING TRADE
TABLE GIVES THE COMPARATIVE FIGURES : -
COMPARATIVE FIGURES
LATEST 3 MONTHS MARCH - MAY 1977 MARCH - MAY 1976 INCREASE OR DECREASE
DOMESTIC EXPORTS $ MN. 7,902 $ MN. 7,638 + $ MN. % 264 +3.5
IMPORTS 12,238 10,735 + 1,504 +14.0
RE-EXPORTS 2,304 2,156 + 148 +6.9
SAME MONTH LAST YEAR MAY 1977 MAY 1976 INCREASE OR DECREASE
DOMESTIC EXPORTS (% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) $ MN. 2,958 (78.2%) $ MN. 2,692 (78.2%) + 3 MN. Il 266 + 9.9
IMPORTS 4,177 3,768 + 409 +10.8
RE-EXPORTS (% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) 822 (21.8%) 751 (21.8%) + 71 + 9.4
/LAST MONTH
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
2
o MAY APRIL INCREASE OR
LAST MONTH 1977 • 1977 DECREASE
DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF TOTAL EXPORTS) S MN. 2,958 (78.2%) $ MN. 2,618 + (78.5%) S MN. 340 % +13.0
IMPORTS 4,177 4,129 + 47 + 1.1
RE-EXPORTS (% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) 822 (21.8%) 719 + (21.5%) 133 + 14.4
CALENDAR YEAR TO-DATE JAN. - MAY 1977 JAN. - MAY 1976 INCREASE OR DECREASE
$ MN. » $ MN. $ MN. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS (% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) 12,846 (77.2%) 11,970 + (77.3%) 876 r + 7.3
IMPORTS 19,448 16,954 + 2,494 + 14.7
RE-EXPORTS (% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) 3,804 (22.8%) 3,522 + (22.7%) 282 + 3.3
LAST 12 MONTHS JUNE 1976 TO MAY 1977 JUNE 1975 TO MAY 1976 INCREASE OR DECREASE
DOMESTIC EXPORTS $ MN. 33,505 $ MN. 26,901 + $ MN. 6,604 % *24.5
IMPORTS 45,787 38,241 + 7,545 + 19.7
RE-EXPORTS 9,210 7,829 + 1,381 + 17.6
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
- J -
CLARIFICATION SOUGHT ON ADDITIONAL FRENCH TEXTILES RESTRICTIONS *****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS MADE FORMAL AND INFORMAL CONTACTS IN BOTH PARIS AND BRUSSELS OVER THE LAST TEN DAYS TO CLARIFY A STATEMENT MADE BY THE FRENCH MINISTER OF TRADE THAT ADDITIONAL RESTRICTIONS WERE BEING IMPOSED ON IMPORTS OF TEXTILES UP TO THE END OF THIS YEAR, THE DIRECTOR OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, THE HON. BILL DORWARD SAID TODAY.
HE WAS REPLYING IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TO A REQUEST BY DR. THE HON. S.Y. CHUNG, IN AN UNSCHEDULED QUESTION, FOR AN OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON THE REPORTED RESTRICTIONS BY THE FRENCH GOVERNMENT.
MR. DORWARD TOLD THE COUNCIL THAT DESPITE THE CONTACTS, THE GOVERNMENT HAD STILL BEEN UNABLE TO OBTAIN DEFINITIVE INFORMATION ON THE FRENCH ACTION WHICH WAS REPORTED IN THE PRESS.
+IT WAS REPORTED TO HAVE BEEN OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCED NEARLY TWO WEEKS AGO, AND IMPLEMENTED ONE WEEK AGO. I HAVE BEEN LED TO EXPECT AN EARLY FORMAL COMMUNICATION FROM THE FRENCH AUTHORITIES. HOWEVER, I HOPE TO BE ABLE TO MAKE A STATEMENT ON THIS SOON,+ THE DIRECTOR SAID.
HE SAID IT APPEARED THAT THE RESTRICTIONS WERE NONDISCRI M I NATORY, BUT NONETHELESS AFFECTED THE TRADE IN WHICH HONG KONG WAS ALREADY EXERCISING EXPORT RESTRAINT UNDER A BILATERAL AGREEMENT CONCLUDED THREE YEARS AGO WITH THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY.
+1 SHOULD NOTE THAT THE RESTRICTIONS APPEAR TO AFFECT ONLY THREE CATEGORIES OF TEXTILES OF INTEREST TO HONG KONG. TRADE SOURCES, HOWEVER, INDICATED SOME DISLOCATION OF TRADE IS ALREADY TAKING PLACE, IN THAT HONG KONG EXPORT LICENCES WHICH WERE ISSUED IN GOOD FAITH AND TRADE CONDUCTED IN GOOD FAITH ARE NOT BEING HONOURED IN FRANCE AT THIS MOMENT,+ MR. DORWARD SAID.
HE ASSURED DR. CHUNG THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD EXERT GREATER PRESSURE ON THE FRENCH GOVERNMENT AND ON THE E.E.C. TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM SATISFACTORILY AND AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE.
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A...
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
- 4 -
LEGCO SUPPORTS BETTER WAGE PROTECTION FOR CONSTRUCTION WORKERS
******
THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO. 4) BILL, WHICH SEEKS TO MAKE PRINCIPAL CONTRACTORS VICARIOUSLY LIABLE FOR THE UNPAID WAGES OF THE EMPLOYEES OF THEIR SUB-CONTRACTORS, WAS PASSED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WITH THE SUPPORT OF UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS.
THE HON. PETER C. WONG, SPEAKING AT THE RESUMED DEBATE, SAID THE BILL WOULD HELP DISCOURAGE INDISCRIMINATE SUB-CONTRACTING AND MINIMIZE EXPLOITATION BY IRRESPONSIBLE SUB-CONTRACTORS.
HE ALSO NOTED THAT IT WOULD GIVE LEGISLATIVE EFFECT TO THE EXISTING PRACTICE OF GOOD CONTRACTORS.
MR. WONG SAID AN AD HOC GROUP OF EIGHT UNOFFICIALS FORMED TO STUDY THE BILL HAD CAREFULLY CONSIDERED ITS PROVISIONS AND HAD HAD USEFUL DISCUSSIONS WITH THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR. WITH CERTAIN MINOR RESERVATIONS, THE GROUP WAS HAPPY WITH THE LEGISLATION, HE SAID.
HE SAID THAT THE GROUP HAD TWO SUGGESTIONS, FIRSTLY TO AMEND THE WORDS ’PRINCIPAL SUB-CONTRACTOR’ IN SECTION 43F (3) (A) TO 'PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR’, AND SECONDLY TO REQUIRE ALL SUB-CONTRACTORS IN THE CHAIN OF SUB-CONTRACTING TO PROVIDE THE CONTRACTOR, WHO IS VICARIOUSLY LIABLE, WITH INFORMATION RELATING TO EMPLOYEES CLAIMING UNPAID WAGES.
MR. WONG NOTED THAT UNDER THE BILL, A SUB-CONTRACTOR OR A NOMINATED SUB-CONTRACTOR WAS RESPECTIVELY REQUIRED TO PROVIDE HIS EMPLOYEES, IN THE EVENT OF HIS FAILURE TO PAY WAGES, WITH THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR AND EVERY SUPERIOR SUB-CONTRACTOR, OR MAIN NOMINATED SUB-CONTRACTOR AND EVERY SUPERIOR NOMINATED SUB-CONTRACTOR.
+OBVIOUSLY, THIS INFORMATION IS ESSENTIAL TO THE EMPLOYEES WHOSE WAGES HAVE NOT BEEN PAID.
+IT IS FELT THAT AS A MATTER OF JUSTICE, A CONTRACTOR, WHO IS VICARIOUSLY LIABLE TO PAY THE WAGES UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BILL, SHOULD HAVE A RIGHT TO ASCERTAIN WHETHER HE IS IN FACT PAYING WAGES TO THE RIGHT PARTIES,+ MR. WONG SAID.
THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, THE HON. PETER WILLIAMS, ACCEPTED THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS AND HAD THEM MADE IN THE COMMITTEE STAGE. HE THANKED THE AD HOC GROUP OF UNOFFICIALS FOR THEIR ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT GIVEN TO THE BILL.
HE SAID ITS PREPARATION HAD NOT BEEN WITHOUT DIFFICULTIES BUT MANY PROBLEMS WERE IRONED OUT WITH THE HELP OF MEMBERS OF THE BUILDING CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION, MANY OF WHOSE VIEWS WERE ACCEPTED OR TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.
+THE ENACTMENT OF THIS BILL WILL REPRESENT ONE MORE STEP FORWARD IN OUR EFFORTS TO PROTECT THE LEGITIMATE INTERESTS OF WORKERS,+ THE COMMISSIONER SAID.
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/5
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
- 5 -
ANNUAL LEAVE BILL PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS
THE EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO.3) BILL 1977 WHICH AIMS TO GIVE WORKERS SEVEN DAYS PAID ANNUAL LEAVE PASSED ITS COMMITTEE STAGE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WITH TWO AMENDMENTS.
THE FIRST AMENDMENT PROVIDED FOR THE REDUCTION FROM ONE MONTH TO 14 DAYS THE PERIOD OF NOTICE REQUIRED TO BE GIVEN TO EMPLOYEES OF THE TIME APPOINTED FOR THEIR LEAVE.
THE SECOND AMENDMENT PROVIDED EMPLOYEES WITH THE OPTION TO TAKE EITHER ALL SEVEN DAYS LEAVE CONSECUTIVELY OR SEPARATELY. IN THE LATTER CASE AT LEAST FOUR OF THE HOLIDAYS, EXCLUDING STATUTORY HOLIDAYS, MUST BE TAKEN CONSECUTIVELY.
THESE AMENDMENTS WERE DESIGNED TO GIVE GREATER FLEXIBILITY TO FACTORY OWNERS WHO MAY RECEIVE OVERSEAS ORDERS AT SHORT NOTICE AND ALSO TO WORKERS.
UNDER THE NEW LAW, WHICH WILL COME INTO EFFECT ON JANUARY 1 NEXT YEAR, ALL MANUAL WORKERS, AND NON-MANUAL EMPLOYEES EARNING NOT MORE THAN $2,000 A MONTH WILL BE ENTITLED TO SEVEN DAYS PAID ANNUAL LEAVE AFTER SERVING 12 MONTHS WITH THE SAME EMPLOYER.
THE SEVEN DAYS ANNUAL LEAVE WILL BE IN ADDITION TO THE 10 STATUTORY HOLIDAYS TO WHICH WORKERS ARE ALREADY ENTITLED TO BY LAW.
ON TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT, AN EMPLOYEE MUST BE GIVEN PRORATA ANNUAL LEAVE PAY EXCEPT WHERE HIS RELEVANT PERIOD OF EMPLOYMENT IS LESS THAN THREE MONTHS, OR HE IS DISMISSED FOR MISCONDUCT AND HIS RELEVANT PERIOD OF EMPLOYMENT IS LESS THAN 12 MONTHS.
APART FROM THESE CIRCUMSTANCES PAYMENT IN LIEU OF LEAVE IS PROHIBITED.
THE NEW LAW ALSO REQUIRES AN EMPLOYER TO KEEP RECORDS OF ANNUAL LEAVE TAKEN BY HIS STAFF AND TO POST NOTICE OF ANY INTENTION TO CLOSE DOWN HIS BUSINESS TEMPORARILY FOR THE PURPOSE OF GRANTING ANNUAL LEAVE TO HIS EMPLOYEES.
IN SUCH AN EVENT, ANY EMPLOYEE WHO HAS NOT COMPLETED ONE YEAR’S SERVICE WOULD BE ENTITLED TO ANNUAL LEAVE WITH PAY FOR THE PERIOD OF THE SHUT DOWN.
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/6
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
6
SQUATTER AREAS KEPT CLEAN BY URBAN SERVICES
* * * *
THE SECRETARY FOR HOUSING, THE HON. ALAN SCOTT, POINTED OUT IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY THAT ALL SQUATTER AREAS ARE PROVIDED WITH STANDARD LITTER DRUMS WHICH ARE EMPTIED AT LEAST ONCE DAILY BY CLEANSING STAFF OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
HE WAS REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY DR. THE HON. HENRY HU WHO HAD ASKED WHAT MEASURES WERE TAKEN TO IMPROVE THE HYGIENIC CONDITIONS OF KWAI SHING WAI AND OTHER SIMILAR AREAS.
MR. SCOTT SAID THAT IN THESE AREAS, DRAINS AND GUTTERS RUNNING ALONG PUBLIC THOROUGHFARES ARE ALSO CLEARED OF RUBBISH AS FAR AS POSSIBLE AND DRY PAIL LAVATORIES ARE PROVIDED EITHER WITHIN OR, IF SPACE IS NOT AVAILABLE, ON THE PERIPHERY OF THE AREAS.
HE ADDED THAT NIGHTSOIL IS COLLECTED BY USD STAFF ON A DAILY BASIS WHILE WATER IS AVAILABLE THROUGH PUBLIC STANDPIPES, AND PLANS ARE IN HAND TO INTRODUCE PROPER ELECTRICITY TO ALL THESE AREAS.
THE SECRETARY EXPLAINED THAT KWAI SHING WAI WAS A RESITE AREA CLEARED IN 1972 NOW WHOLLY OCCUPIED ILLEGALLY BY SQUATTERS.
+THE IMMEDIATE PROBLEM OF CLEARING DEBRIS FOLLOWING RECENT CLEARANCE OF PART OF. THIS SQUATTER AREA HAS BEEN DEALT WITH, BUT CLEARANCE OF THE REMAINING PART IS THE ONLY SOLUTION TO THE POOR CONDITIONS IN THE AREA,+ HE SAID.
HE SAID IT WAS PLANNED THAT ABOUT HALF OF THE REMAINING RESIDENTS WOULD BE MOVED IN JULY AND THE REST LATER THIS YEAR, INTO TEMPORARY HOUSING AREAS.
MEANWHILE, HE NOTED, ANY FAMILY WISHING TO LEAVE HAD BEEN OFFERED ACCOMMODATION IN SHAM SHU I PO TRANSIT CENTRE WHICH HAS VERY GOOD FACILITIES, AND ONLY THREE FAMILIES HAVE SO FAR CHOSEN TO MOVE.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, THE HON. DEREK JONES, IN ANSWER TO ANOTHER QUESTION BY THE HON. ALEX WU, STRESSED THAT IN AREAS WHERE RATS CAN OBTAIN PLENTY OF FOOD AND COMFORTABLE HIDING PLACES, TRAPPING AND POISONING THEM CANNOT GET TO THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM.
HE SAID THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S EFFORTS TO ERADICATE VERMIN ARE ALREADY AS EFFECTIVE AS THEY CAN BE MADE, +BUT NO AMOUNT CF GOVERNMENTAL EFFORT CAN PRODUCE REALLY EFFECTIVE RESULTS WITHOUT THE CO-OPERATION OF THE PUBLIC IN IMPROVING HYGIENIC CONDITIONS AND THUS DENYING TO VERMIN THE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH THEY CAN MULTIPLY AND FLOUR ISH.+
A CONTINUING BATTLE AGAINST PESTS AND VERMIN IS WAGED BY PEST CONTROL STAFF OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, WHO ALSO CONDUCT PERIODICAL CAMPAIGNS TO PERSUADE THE PUBLIC TO ADOPT MEASURES THAT WILL REDUCE THE INCIDENCE OF VERMIN, MR. JONES SAID.
/♦EXAMPLES
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
7
♦EXAMPLES ARE THE COVERING UP OF FOOD AND WASTE FOOD MATTER, THE ELIMINATION OF HOLLOW SPACES AND PROVIDING GRATINGS OVER DRAINPIPES.
♦LATER THIS YEAR A SPECIAL PUBLIC INFORMATION CAMPAIGN WILL EE LAUNCHED ON THE BEST MEANS OF PREVENTING AND ELIMINATING PESTS IN DOMESTIC PREMISES,+ HE ADDED.
REFERRING TO THE SITUATION IN KWAI SHING WAI, MR. JONES POINTED OUT THAT RATS, COCKROACHES AND OTHER VERMIN CAN MULTIPLY RAPIDLY WHERE THERE IS FOOD AND HARBOURAGE FOR THEM.
♦THIS AREA HAS UNFORTUNATELY PROVIDED VERY FAVOURABLE CONDITIONS TO ENCOURAGE RATS TO BREED AND FLOURISH,+ HE SAID.
- 0 - -
PLUGGING WATER LEAKS
******
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT HAD TO REPAIR AN AVERAGE OF ABOUT 10 BURST WATER MAINS A WEEK, THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS MR. DAVID MCDONALD SAID TODAY IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
♦LEAKS AND BURSTS GENERALLY OCCURRED AS A RESULT OF DISTURBANCE BY WORKINGS ON OTHER SERVICES CLOSE TO MAINS, VIBRATION OCCASIONED BY CONSTRUCTION WORKS OR HEAVY MOTOR TRAFFIC, OR GROUND SUBSIDENCE+, MR. MCDONALD ADDED IN ANSWER TO A QUESTION.
♦THE TIME WHICH ELAPSES BEFORE THE FLOW FROM A BURST IS BROUGHT UNDER CONTROL USUALLY VARIES FROM 30 TO 60 MINUTES DEPENDING ON THE DISTANCE FROM THE DEPOT AND TRAFFIC CONDITIONS AT THE TIME.+
MR. MCDONALD WAS ASKED BY THE HON. LEUNG TAT-SHING, ABOUT MEASURES BEING TAKEN TO PREVENT LOSS OF WATER OCCURRING FROM LEAKAGE OR BREAKAGE IN UNDERGROUND WATER MAINS.
♦THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT,+ MR. MCDONALD SAID +HAS STAND-BY STAFF ON 24-HOUR DUTY THROUGHOUT THE YEAR TO DEAL WITH BURST MAINS AND OTHER EMERGENCIES*.
HE ALSO SAID THAT +CONSIDERABLE CARE IS EXERCISED IN LAYING WATER MAINS INCLUDING THE PREPARATION OF PROPER FOUNDATIONS, CAREFUL BACK FILLING AND CONSOLIDATION AND PRESSURE TESTS.+
MR. MCDONALD SAID THAT +THE WATER PIPES THEMSELVES ARE WORKS PRESSURE TESTED TO TWICE THEIR NORMAL WORKING PRESSURE.
♦THEY HAVE A SERVICE LIFE OF UP TO 53 YEARS. IT IS THEREFORE RARE THAT A BURST OCCURS DUE TO AGE OR FAULTY MATERIALS,* HE SAID.
- 0 - -
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
- 8 -
EARLY REALISATION OF JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE PROJECT HMM
SOME OF THE FACILITIES IN THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE IN SHA TIN ARE EXPECTED TO BE AVAILABLE WITHIN THREE YEARS WHILE THE CENTRE WILL BE IN FULL OPERATION A YEAR LATER, THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, THE HON. F.K. LI TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WHEN MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE BILL 1977 TODAY.
MR. LI POINTED OUT THAT THE PROJECT EVOLVED WHEN THE STEWARDS OF THE ROAYL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB REALISED THAT THEY WOULD BE ABLE TO MAKE AVAILABLE AT THE NEW RACECOURSE AN AREA OF OVER 40 ACRES FOR SPORTING PURPOSES.
+THEY SAW IN THIS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO ESTABLISH A CENTRE FOR ACTIVE SPORTS ON A SCALE UNPRECEDENTED FOR HONG KONG.
+NOT ONLY WAS THERE A LARGE AREA OF FLAT LAND, BUT THE EXTRA ROAD AND RAIL FACILITIES TO BE PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF SHA TIN AND OF THE RACECOURSE WOULD MAKE THE CcNTRE EASILY ACCESSIBLE,+ MR. LI SAID.
THE SECRETARY SAID THE CLUB’S INITIAL CONTRIBUTION TO THE JOINT UNDERTAKING WOULD BE ITS EXPENDITURE ON THE 41 ACRES OF RECLAIMED LAND, THE GOVERNMENT’S WOULD BE THE PROVISION OF S25 MILLION TOWARDS THE BUILDING OF THE CENTRE.
THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE BILL 1977 WAS TO ESTABLISH A JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE BOARD AS A BODY CORPORATE, TOWARDS THE REALISATION OF THE PROJECT, HE EXPLAINED.
THE BILL SETS OUT THE FUNCTIONS OF THE BOARD, EMPHASISING THE PRINCIPAL AIM OF PROVIDING EXPERT COACHING IN SPORTS, AND FACILITIES FOR PRACTICE, TO RAISE STANDARDS AND STIMULATE INCREASED PARTICIPATION, MR. LI SAID.
IT ALSO ENABLES THE BOARD TO FIX FEES AND CHARGES FOR THE USE OF THE FACILITIES AND EMPOWERS IT TO WAIVE THEM, PARTICULARLY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE UNDER EIGHTEEN, HE ADDED.
MEMBERSHIP OF THE BOARD IS ALSO PROVIDED FOR UNDER THE BILL, AND IT IS THE INTENTION OF THE GOVERNOR TO APPOINT THE FIVE MEMBERS OF THE PROVISIONAL BOARD, CHAIRED BY SIR ALBERT RODRIGUES, TO THE BOARD WHEN IT IS ESTABLISHED BY ORDINANCE, HE SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE PROVISIONAL BOARD WAS ESTABLISHED SO THAT PLANNING COULD START BEFORE THE ENACTMENT OF THE BILL.
IT HAD ALREADY INITIATED ACTION TO ADVERTISE FOR A CHIEF EXECUTIVE, WHO WOULD ASSIST IN THE PLANNING OF THE SPORTS CENTRE AND WOULD LATER BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ITS DAY-TO-DAY MANAGEMENT, MR. LI SAID.
THE BOARD WOULD ALSO CONSULT EXPERTS AND ORGANISATIONS WITH EXPERIENCE OF THE PLANNING OF SPORTS CENTRES, HE ADDED.
-----o------
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
9
GOVERNOR PRESENTS NEW STANDARD TO 28 SQUADRON, RAF
*****
NO. 28 SQUADRON, ROYAL AIR FORCE, HAS BEEN A GREATLY VALUED AND RESPECTED PART OF THE COMMUNITY AND THE GARRISON SINCE MAY 1948 WHEN IT WAS STATIONED IN HONG KONG, THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE SAID THIS EVENING WHEN HE PRESENTED A NEW STANDARD TO THE SQUADRON AT RAF KAI TAK.
+ IN YOUR WORK FOR THE COMMUNITY THE 615 RESCUE CALLS WHICH YOU HAVE ANSWERED SINCE 1968 SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES, AND YOU HAVE HELPED IN MANY OTHER WAYS FROM LIFTING HEAVY CIVIL ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT TO RUNNING PARAPLEGIC SPORTS,+ HE TOLD THE SQUADRON.
SIR MURRAY SAID A GREAT DEAL HAD CHANGED SINCE THE SQUADRON’S ASSOCIATION WITH HONG KONG BEGAN, FOR THE ROYAL AIR FORCE, THE SQUADRON, AND HONG KONG.
+IT HAS BEEN A PERIOD OF VERY RAPID CHANGE DURING WHICH THE ARMED FORCES HAVE HAD A DIFFICULT ROLE TO PLAY, IN THE FACE OF INCREASING NEED FOR ECONOMIES, WHEREVER THEY HAVE SERVED.
+NEVERTHELESS THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PART WHICH THEY HAVE PLAYED HERE, AND VALUE OF THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY, HAVE NOT DIMINISHED,* HE SAID.
THE GOVERNOR NOTED THAT A SQUADRON IS PRESENTED WITH A STANDARD BY HAVING EARNED THE SOVEREIGN’S APPRECIATION FOR ESPECIALLY OUTSTANDING OPERATIONS OR BY HAVING COMPLETED 25 YEARS’ SERVICE WITH THE ROYAL AIR FORCE.
+TODAY, 28 SQUADRON HAS THE RARE DISTINCTION OF HAVING EARNED A SECOND STANDARD,* HE SAID.
THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THE GOVERNOR’S SPEECH:
+THIS IS A PROUD DAY FOR 28 SQUADRON, FOR A SQUADRON IS PRESENTED WITH A STANDARD BY HAVING EARNED THE SOVEREIGN’S APPRECIATION FOR ESPECIALLY OUTSTANDING OPERATIONS OR BY HAVING COMPLETED 25 YEARS’ SERVICE WITH THE ROYAL AIR FORCE. TODAY, 28 SQUADRON HAS THE RARE DISTINCTION OF HAVING EARNED A SECOND STANDARD.
+IT IS NEARLY 30 YEARS SINCE 28 SQUADRON’S ASSOCIATION WITH HONG KONG BEGAN AND A GREAT DEAL HAS CHANGED IN THAT TIME FOR THE ROYAL AIR FORCE, THE SQUADRON, AND HONG KONG.
+IT HAS BEEN A PERIOD OF VERY RAPID CHANGE DURING WHICH THE ARMED FORCES HAVE HAD A DIFFICULT ROLE TO PLAY, IN THE FACE OF INCREASING NEED FOR ECONOMIES, WHEREVER THEY HAVE SERVED. NEVERTHELESS THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PART WHICH THEY HAVE PLAYED HERE, AND VALUE OF THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY, HAVE NOT DIMINISHED.
/♦SINCE
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
10
+SINCE ITS FORMATION IN 1920 THE SQUADRON HAS SEEN MOST OF ITS SERVICE ’’EAST OF SUEZ”. PERHAPS THE MOST TESTING PERIOD WAS BETWEEN 1942 AND 1945 WHEN 23 SQUADRON MADE A NOTABLE CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEFEAT OF THE JAPANESE FORCES IN BURMA BY ITS CLOSE TACTICAL SUPPORT OF THE 14TH ARMY.
♦THE NEW STANDARD WHICH YOU HAVE JUST RECEIVED BEARS FOUR BATTLE HONOURS FROM THAT CAMPAIGN, TESTIFYING TO THE SACRIFICE, BRAVERY AND SKILL OF THE MEN WHO SERVED IN BURMA.
+SINCE MAY 1948 THE SQUADRON HAS BEEN STATIONED IN HONG KONG WHERE IT HAS BEEN A GREATLY VALUED AND RESPECTED PART OF THE COMMUNITY AND THE GARRISON. IN YOUR WORK FOR THE COMMUNITY THE 615 RESCUE CALLS WHICH YOU HAVE ANSWERED SINCE 1968 SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES, AND YOU HAVE HELPED IN MANY OTHER WAYS FROM LIFTING HEAVY CIVIL ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT TO RUNNING PARAPLEGIC SPORTS.
+BUT OF COURSE YOUR MILITARY ROLE COMES FIRST. WITH THE SIZE OF THE GARRISON REDUCED, ITS MOBILITY IS VITAL, AND THIS 28 SQUADRON PROVIDES WITH ITS HELICOPTERS- AND I REALISE THAT TO FLY THEM IN THE CONDITIONS OF TERRAIN AND CLIMATE OF HONG KONG REQUIRES HIGH LEVELS OF SKILL, TRAINING AND MAINTENANCE, AS WELL AS STRONG NERVES. IN AN OPERATIONAL SQUADRON OF THE ROYAL AIR FORCE THE WORK MAY OFTEN BE DIFFICULT AND SOMETIMES DANGEROUS BUT NEVER DULL.
+NEXT YEAR YOU WILL MOVE TO SEK KONG. I HOPE YOU WILL FIND THERE THAT CONDITIONS OF WORK AND LIFE ARE AS GOOD IF NOT BETTER - AND CERTAINLY QUIETER - THAN HERE AT THE EDGE OF A BUSY AIRPORT IN THE CENTRE OF THIS CITY.
+THE STANDARD WITH WHICH YOU HAVE BEEN PRESENTED TODAY SERVES AS AN EMBODIMENT OF YOUR SQUADRON’S TRADITIONS. YOUR EQUIPMENT, TECHNIQUES AND SKILLS CHANGE, BUT THE QUALITIES WHICH YOU NEED TO MEET THE CHALLENGES WHICH FACE YOU ARE THE SAME AS THOSE WHICH YOUR PREDECESSORS DEMONSTRATED OVER THE BURMA JUNGLE IN 1942. YOUR STANDARD, JEALOUSLY GUARDED AND RESPECTED, WILL REMIND YOU OF THEM.
+1 OFFER MY BEST WISHES TO ALL MEMBERS OF 28 SQUADRON, PAST AND PRESENT, AND THEIR FAMILIES, AND I HOPE THE SQUADRON WILL LONG REMAIN HERE TO SERVE HONG KONG AND ITS GARRISON.*
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/11 ......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
11
BETTER FACILITIES AT OUT-PATIENT CLINICS
*****
STEPS HAVE BEEN TAKEN AS AN IMMEDIATE MEASURE TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF SESSIONS IN THE EVENINGS AS WELL AS ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN OUT-PATIENT CLINICS TO REDUCE THE WAITING TIME OF PATIENTS ATTENDING TREATMENT.
THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, DR. THE HON. K.L. THONG, SPEAKING IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN REPLY TO QUESTIONS BY THE HON. JAMES WU, SAID THIS SCHEME OF EXPANDING EVENING CLINIC SESSIONS WOULD BE KEPT UNDER CONSTANT REVIEW AND FURTHER IMPROVEMENT WOULD BE MADE.
ON A LONG-TERM BASIS, DR. THONG SAID, SEVEN NEW GENERAL CLINICS WERE SCHEDULED TO BE COMPLETED IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS.
THE FIRST OF THESE WOULD BE OPENED BY THE END OF JULY IN
THE EAST KOWLOON AREA AND TWO OLD CLINICS WOULD ALSO BE REPROVISIONED TO PROVIDE MORE FACILITIES DURING THIS PERIOD, HE SAID.
+WITH THESE MEASURES, THE DEMAND FOR OUT-PATIENT SERVICES SHOULD BE ALLEVIATED TO A CONSIDERABLE EXTENT AND HENCE REDUCE WAITING TIME AT THE CLINICS,* HE ADDED.
DR. THONG SAID THE DEPARTMENT WAS ALSO'LOOK ING INTO THE QUESTION OF PROVIDING COVERED WAITING AREAS OUTSIDE THE BUILDINGS IN A NUMBER OF OUT-PATIENT CLINICS WHENEVER AND WHEREVER PRACTICABLE.
IN REPLY TO ANOTHER QUESTION BY THE HON. MISS KO SIU-WAH, DR. THONG SAID CONSIDERATION WAS BEING GIVEN AS WELL TO A PROPOSAL TO OPERATE EVENING SESSIONS IN A CHEST CLINIC FOR PATIENTS WHO ARE UNABLE TO ATTEND DAY SESSIONS.
ON THE SUBJECT OF CHOLERA INOCULATION RAISED BY THE HON. PETER C. WONG, THE DIRECTOR SAID INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATES OF INOCULATION AGAINST CHOLERA WERE NO LONGER REQUIRED FROM TRAVELLERS EVEN FROM INFECTED AREAS AMONG WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION MEMBER COUNTRIES, INCLUDING HONG KONG.
THIS HAS BEEN PUT INTO EFFECT SINCE 1974 ON THE ADVICE OF THE ORGANISATION, HE SAID.
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE BASIC REASON WAS THAT FROM EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE OVER NEARLY TWO DECADES, IT HAS BEEN FOUND THAT THE VACCINE AGAINST CHOLERA, WHILE AFFORDING SOME PERSONAL PROTECTION TO THE INDIVIDUAL, DOES NOT PREVENT THE IMPORTATION OF CHOLERA INTO A COUNTRY FROM AN INFECTED AREA.
+INSTEAD IT IS NOW UNIVERSALLY ACCEPTED BY INTERNATIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITIES THAT GOOD ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION AND PERSONAL HYGIENE ARE THE TWO ESSENTIAL FACTORS IN THE PREVENTION OF THE SPREAD OF CHOLERA WITHIN THE COMMUNITY,* DR. THONG SAID.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
- 12 -
GOVT CONCERN OVER MOTORCYCLE HIRING
*****
THE GOVERNMENT IS CONCERNED ABOUT THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE HIRING OUT OF MOTORCYCLES AND INTEND TO EXAMINE THE PROBLEMS WHICH MAY ARISE IN DECIDING WHETHER SUITABLE CONTROLS OVER THE TRADE ARE NECESSARY AND COULD BE EFFECTIVELY ENFORCED.
THE SECRETARY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, THE HON. DEREK JONES SAID THIS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY WHEN REPLYING TO QUESTIONS RAISED BY THE HON. ROGER LOBO.
MR. JONES ALSO SAID THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE FEARED THAT SOME OF THE THIRD PARTY INSURANCE POLICIES TAKEN OUT BY ESTABLISHMENTS HIRING OUT MOTORCYCLES MIGHT NOT PROVIDE EFFECTIVE COVER IN THE EVENT OF ACCIDENTS, AS REQUIRED UNDER A SECTION OF THE MOTOR VEHICLES INSURANCE (THIRD PARTY RISKS) ORDINANCE.
+HE IS SEEKING LEGAL ADVICE ON THIS QUESTION AND, IF IT TURNS OUT THAT EXISTING LEGISLATION IS NOT ADEQUATE TO MEET THE PROBLEM, SUITABLE AMENDMENTS WILL BE SOUGHT,+ MR. JONES SAID.
THE SECRETARY SAID, HOWEVER, THAT IT WAS NOT POSSIBLE EFFECTIVELY TO ENSURE THAT ALL PERSONS WHO HIRED MOTORCYCLES WERE HOLDERS OF DRIVING LICENCES, BUT ANYONE WHO RODE A MOTORCYCLE ON THE PUBLIC HIGHWAY WITHOUT A FULL OR PROVISIONAL LICENCE WAS COMMITTING AN OFFENCE.
+SUCH OFFENDERS, IF THEY ARE FOUND BY THE POLICE IN RANDOM CHECKS, OR THROUGH COMMITTING SOME OTHER OFFENCE OR BEING INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT, ARE PROSECUTED IN COURT,+ HE SAID.
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GOVT SEEKS ADVICE ON PROTECTION OF COMPUTER INFORMATION *****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS RECENTLY ASKED FOR GUIDANCE ON THE PROTECTION OF PRIVACY OF COMPUTER-STORED INFORMATION FROM THE UNITED KINGDOM, WHERE WHITE PAPERS HAVE BEEN PUBLISHED ON THE SUBJECT, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DENYS ROBERTS SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
SIR DENYS WAS REPLYING TO A QUESTION RAISED BY THE HON. S.L. CHEN WHO ASKED WHETHER THE GOVERNMENT HAD ANY PLANS TO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO GOVERN PERSONAL INFORMATION KEPT IN COMPUTER BANKS, BOTH TO FACILITATE ACCESS BY AN INDIVIDUAL TO INFORMATION RELATING TO HIMSELF AND TO RESTRICT ACCESS BY OTHER PERSONS TO SUCH INFORMATION.
SIR DENYS SAID THE HONG KONG COMPUTER SOCIETY HAD RECENTLY APPOINTED A PRIVACY LEGISLATION SUB-COMMITTEE AND HAD UNDERTAKEN TO FORWARD ITS RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNMENT IN DUE COURSE.
+WHEN THIS INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE, THE GOVERNMENT WILL CONSIDER WHETHER LEGISLATION IS DESIRABLE,* HE SAID.
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/13
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
- 13 -
LOCAL MAGISTRATES DIFFICULT TO RECRUIT
* * * *
THE GOVERNMENT HAS FOUND IT DIFFICULT TO RECRUIT LOCAL LAWYERS AS MAGISTRATES DESPITE FREQUENT ATTEMPTS TO DO SO, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DENYS ROBERTS SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
IN REPLY TO A QUESTION RAISED BY THE HON. T.S. LO, SIR DENYS SAID SINCE JANUARY 1 LAST YEAR VACANCIES FOR MAGISTRATES HAD BEEN ADVERTISED LOCALLY ON SIX OCCASIONS, AS A RESULT OF WHICH TWO NEW LOCAL MAGISTRATES WERE APPOINTED, ON THE ADVICE OF THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID, AT PRESENT THERE WERE NINE LOCALLY RECRUITED CANTONESE-SPEAKING FULL TIME MAGISTRATES SERVING IN THE JUDICIARY. NO ATTEMPTS HAD BEEN MADE TO RECRUIT PART TIME MAGISTRATES, HE ADDED.
-----o------
NT HAWKERS ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR NEW STALLS * * * *
BOTH LICENSED AND UNLICENSED HAWKERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR THE MINI-STALLS WHICH ARE INCLUDED IN EVERY NEW MARKET IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, THE SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, THE HON. DAVID AKERS-JONES, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
THESE MINI-STALLS ARE INTENDED FOR LEASING TO VARIOUS CATEGORIES OF HAWKERS OCCUPYING SITES IN THE SURROUNDING ROADS, HE EXPLAINED IN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY REV. THE HON. JOYCE M. BENNETT.
MR. AKERS-JONES SAID THAT AS FAR AS PRACTICABLE, THE NUMBER OF MINI-STALLS WAS PLANNED TO CORRESPOND WITH THE NUMBER OF HAWKERS, BUT WHERE THERE WERE NOT ENOUGH STALLS TO CATER FOR THEM ALL, PRIORITY WAS GIVEN TO LICENSED HAWKERS.
LESSEES OF THESE MINI-STALLS MAY SELL WET OR DRY GOODS ONLY, HE ADDED.
THE SECRETARY POINTED THAT IN THE NEW TERRITORIES NO HAWKERS WERE LICENSED TO SELL MEAT, FISH OR POULTRY WHICH MAY BE SOLD ONLY IN PUBLIC MARKETS OR LICENSED FRESH PROVISION SHOPS.
HAWKERS CANNOT THEREFORE BE GIVEN PRIORITY IN THE ALLOCATION OF FULL-SIZE MARKET STALLS, AND IF ONE FALLS VACANT AT ANY TIME IN AN EXISTING OR A NEW MARKET, IT IS PUT UP TO AUCTION WITHOUT RESTRICTION ON WHO BIDS, HE SAID.
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/1A......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
14
CONTROLS AGAINST UNDESIRABLE MEDICAL ADVERT ADEQUATE ******
THE GOVERNMENT CONSIDERED CONTROLS PROVIDED BY THE UNDESIRABLE MEDICAL ADVERTISEMENTS ORDINANCE WERE ADEQUATE, ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON. JOHN HOBLEY, SAID TODAY IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
IN HIS REPLY TO THE HON. LEUNG TAT-SHING’S QUESTION ABOUT ADVERTISEMENTS FOR VARIOUS AILMENTS IN THE CHINESE PRESS, MR. HOBLEY ADDED THAT AS TO THE ENFORCEMENT OF THE LAW WAS CONCERNED, THE POLICE ACT ONLY ON COMPLAINT FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
THE POLICE DO NOT HAVE THE RESOURCES TO EXAMINE ALL NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENTS ON A REGULAR BASIS, HE SAID.
-----0------
FISHING BOAT INCIDENT REPORTED TO FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE *****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS SUBMITTED A FULL REPORT ON THE RECENT FISHING BOAT INCIDENT IN THE- GULF OF TONKIN TO THE FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE FOR ITS CONSIDERATION, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DENYS ROBERTS SAID TODAY IN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
REPLYING TO DR. THE HON. HENRY HU’S QUESTION, SIR DENYS
ADDED: +AS FAR AS WE HAVE BEEN ABLE TO ESTABLISH, A DUAL REGISTERED TRAWLER, M66294Y, USUALLY BASED AT ABERDEEN, WAS ON A FISHING EXPEDITION IN THE GULF OF TONKIN AT THE END OF MAY.
+WHILE THE VESSEL WAS AT ANCHOR, PROBABLY WITHIN VIETNAMESE TERRITORIAL WATERS AND IN WHAT THE VIETNAMESE AUTHORITIES APPARENTLY CONSIDERED TO BE A CLOSED AREA, IT WAS CHALLENGED BY A VIETNAMESE PATROL BOAT AND ATTEMPTED TO ESCAPE, WHEREUPON THE VIETNAMESE BOAT OPENED FIRE,-*- SIR DENYS SAID.
UNHAPPILY, HE CONTINUED, CHAN MUI, THE MASTER AND OWNER OF THE TRAWLER, WAS HIT AND SUBSEQUENTLY DIED- NO ONE ELSE ON BOARD WAS INJURED.
+ALTHOUGH THE DEAD MAN HELD A HONG KONG IDENTITY CARD, IT IS DOUBTFUL WHETHER HE WAS A BRITISH SUBJECT. THE TRAWLER WAS ESCORTED TO A NEARBY ISLAND WHERE IT WAS DETAINED FOR ABOUT 30 HOURS BEFORE BEING RELEASED AND RETURNING TO HONG KONG,+ SIR DENYS ADDED.
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/15
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
- 15 -
INSPECTION OF MTR SITES
******
MEMBERS OF THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE HAVE CARRIED OUT NUMEROUS REGULAR INSPECTIONS UNDERGROUND AT MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY SITES, COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, THE HON. PETER WILLIAMS SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY.
SINCE JANUARY 1 THIS YEAR, THERE HAVE BEEN 51 SUCH INSPECTIONS, HE ADDED IN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON. WONG LAM.
MR. WILLIAMS SAID THE M.T.R. AT PRESENT HAD THREE WORK AREAS OPERATING IN COMPRESSED AIR. TWO FACTORY INSPECTORS, TWO INDUSTRIAL HEALTH OFFICERS AND ONE INDUSTRIAL HYGIENIST HAD BEEN AUTHORISED TO ENTER COMPRESSED AIR WORKINGS AND HE EXPECTED INSPECTIONS OF THESE LIMITED AND SPECIAL AREAS TO START DURING JULY.
-----0------
TRANSFER OF DUTIES OF ESSENTIAL SERVICES CORPS ******
A RESOLUTION TO TRANSFER THE FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES PREVIOUSLY EXERCISED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF THE ESSENTIAL SERVICES CORPS TO THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY WAS PASSED TODAY AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
MOVING THE RESOLUTION UNDER A SECTION OF THE INTERPRETATION AND GENERAL CLAUSES ORDINANCE, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON. LEWIS DAVIES SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD BEEN REVIEWING AND REVISING SOME OF THE ARRANGEMENTS WHICH MIGHT BE REQUIRED TO MAINTAIN ESSENTIAL SERVICES IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.
+AS A RESULT THE FULL-TIME APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSIONER OF THE ESSENTIAL SERVICES CORPS IS NO LONGER REQUIRED. THE DUTIES OF THIS POST HAVE BEEN ABSORBED INTO THOSE OF THE SECURITY BRANCH OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT GENERALLY,+ MR. DAVIES SAID.
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/16......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
16
GOVERNOR TO OPEN TELEPHONE EXCHANGE AT LAI CHI WO * * * *
NOTE TO EDITORS:
PRESS ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE OPENING OF THE HONG KONG TELEPHONE COMPANY’S NEW TELEPHONE EXCHANGE AT LAI CHI WO BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR ON THURSDAY AFTERNOON (JUNE 30) ARE AS FOLLOWS.
PRESS REPRESENTATIVES WISHING TO ATTEND THE OPENING CEREMONY ARE ASKED TO ASSEMBLE AT THE CAR PARK BEHIND TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICE, KOWLOON AT 11.50 A.M. ON THURSDAY MORNING (JUNE 30).
A GOVERNMENT BUS WILL LEAVE THE CAR PARK PUNCTUALLY AT 12 NOON TO TAKE PRESS REPRESENTATIVES TO TAI PO KAU JETTY FROM WHERE A POLICE LAUNCH WILL LEAVE TO TAKE THE PARTY TO LAI CHI WO.
THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT ABOUT 2.50 P.M. AND WILL LAST FOR ABOUT ONE HOUR.
THE PARTY IS EXPECTED TO BE BACK AT KOWLOON BETWEEN 6PM AND 6.30 P.M. GIS OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST THE PRESSMEN.
PRESS REPRESENTATIVES WILL HAVE TO LAND BY DINGHY AT LAI CHI WO AND SHOULD HAVE FOOTWEAR SUITABLE FOR JUMPING ASHORE.
-------o - - - -
BILLS PASSED * *
TEN BILLS PASSED THEIR SECOND AND THIRD READING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THIS AFTERNOON AND BECAME LAW.
THEY ARE THE IMMIGRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, ADOPTION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, DENTISTS REGISTRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, PHARMACY AND POISONS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, STAMP (AMENDMENT) (NO.2) BILL 1977, ASIATIC EMIGRATION (REPEAL) BILL 1977, EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO.4) BILL 1977, TRADE MARKS ^AMENDMENT) BILL 1977, EMPLOYMENT (AMENDMENT) (NO.3) BILL 1977 AND THE CONSUMER COUNCIL BILL 1977.
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/17......
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 1977
- 17 -
SECTION OF FAT HING STREET CLOSED
*****
THE SECTION OF FAT HING STREET BETWEEN POSSESSION STREET AND NO. 14, QUEEN’S ROAD WEST IN SAI YING POON HAS BEEN CLOSED TO TRAFFIC.
A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT THE CLOSURE WAS TO FACILITATE DEMOLITION OF BUILDINGS NEXT TO THE STREET.
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS HAVE BEEN PUT UP TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
- - 0 - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 1977
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
TELEPHONE LINK WITH REMOTE VILLAGES OPENED BY GOVERNOR ... 1
GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTS SHOW $903 MILLION ACCUMULATED SURPLUS 2 EXHIBITION ON SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN SHAM SHUI PO ... 3
TREASURY REPLACES ITS COMPUTER .................... 4
TUEN MUN LAND TO BE FORMED FOR ANOTHER HOUSING ESTATE .... 5
REGULATIONS ON CARTRIDGE FIXING TOOLS EFFECTIVE FROM TOMORROW .........................................
INFORMATION ON PRE-WAR PREMISES SOUGHT ...........
SWD DIRECTOR TO OPEN SCOUTS REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS . 7
INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATIVE DAY TO BE CELEBRATED IN HONG KONG .............................................
Issued by Government Information Services, Beaconsfield House, Hong Kong.Tel: 5-233191
THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 1977
- 1 -
GOVERNOR OPENS TELEPHONE EXCHANGE IN REMOTE VILLAGE
PEOPLE IN REMOTE LAI CHI WO VILLAGE IN DOUBLE HAVEN AND NEIGHBOURING VILLAGES CAN NOW REACH HONG KONG OR EVEN THEIR RELATIONS IN BRITAIN OR ELSEWHERE OVERSEAS IN A MATTER OF SECONDS OR MINUTES, THE GOVERNOR, SIR MURRAY MACLEHOSE, SAID AT THE OPENING OF A NEW TELEPHONE EXCHANGE IN THE VILLAGE TODAY.
+THIS TRANSFORMATION IS SYMBOLIC OF OUR DESIRE TO EXTEND TO ALL PARTS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES, AND TO THE GREATEST EXTENT PRACTICABLE,BENEFITS ENJOYED ELSEWHERE,* SIR MURRAY SAID.
THE GOVERNOR NOTED THAT IN THE VILLAGES EMIGRATION HAD REDUCED THE NUMBER OF ABLE-BODIED RESIDENTS WHO COULD GO FOR HELP IN AN EMERGENCY, AND THE INCREASE IN HIKERS AND WEEK-END VISITORS HAD GREATLY ADDED TO THE POSSIBILITY OF HELP BEING NEEDED.
+ IN ANY CASE TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION IS NOW A NORMAL FEATURE OF LIFE FOR THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG AND SHOULD NOT BE DENIED TO THE REMOTE AREAS,* HE SAID.
THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THE GOVERNOR’S SPEECH:
+l AM VERY PLEASED TO BE PRESENT AT THE OPENING OF THIS TELEPHONE EXCHANGE WHICH WILL BRING GREAT BENEFITS TO THE NEIGHBOURING VILLAGES AND KAT 0.
+l HAVE BEEN IMPRESSED OVER RECENT YEARS BY WHAT VILLAGE REPRESENTATIVES AND RURAL COMMITTEES HAVE SAID TO ME ABOUT THE LACK OF TELEPHONE COMMUNICATIONS WITH REMOTE VILLAGES. ON THE ONE HAND EMIGRATION HAS REDUCED THE NUMBER OF ABLE-BODIED RESIDENTS WHO COULD GO FOR HELP IN AN EMERGENCY. ON THE OTHER, THE INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF HIKERS AND WEEK-END VISITORS HAS GREATLY ADDED TO THE POSSIBILITY OF HELP BEING NEEDED.
+IN ANY CASE TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION IS NOW A NORMAL FEATURE OF LIFE FOR THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG AND SHOULD NOT BE DENIED TO THE REMOTE AREAS.
+THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN TACKLED WITH VIGOUR BY THE TELEPHONE COMPANY IN CLOSE CONSULTATION WITH THE SUB-COMMITTEE ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF TELEPHONE SERVICES.
+WITH THE OPENING OF THIS EXCHANGE AT LAI CHI WO COVERAGE OF REMOTE VILLAGES OF A SIGNIFICANT SIZE WILL BE NEARLY COMPLETE. THE COST TO THE TELEPHONE COMPANY HAS BEEN CONSIDERABLE, BUT IT IS MONEY WELL SPENT IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST.
/+PEOPLE .......
THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 1977
♦PEOPLE IN THIS REMOTE AREA CAN NOW REACH THEIR FRIENDS OR THE DOCTOR OR THE POLICE IN HONG KONG, OR EVEN THEIR RELATIONS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM OR ELSEWHERE, IN A MATTER OF SECONDS OR MINUTES.
♦THIS TRANSFORMATION IS SYMBOLIC OF OUR DESIRE TO EXTEND TO ALL PARTS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES, AND TO THE GREATEST EXTENT PRACTICABLE, BENEFITS ENJOYED ELSEWHERE. THIS CAN ONLY BE DONE THROUGH THE EXTENSION OF COMMUNICATIONS.
+IN FORMALLY DECLARING THE LAI CHI WO TELEPHONE EXCHANGE OPEN I TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY OF CONGRATULATING ALL WHO HAVE BEEN CONCERNED IN ITS PLANNING, CONSTRUCTION AND COMM ISS ION I NG.+
- - 0 - -
GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTS FOR MARCH 1977 * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTS FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 1977 SHOWED A SURPLUS OF $28.6 MILLION COMPARED WITH A DEFICIT OF $184 MILLION IN MARCH LAST YEAR.
TOTAL REVENUE AND RECEIPTS FOR MARCH 1977 WAS $874.9 MILLION AND TOTAL EXPENDITURE WAS $846.3 MILLION.
THE ACCUMULATED SURPLUS AT THE END OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1976-77 WAS $903 MILLION. THIS COMPARES WITH THE SURPLUS OF $853 MILLION FORECAST BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY IN HIS BUDGET SPEECH IN MARCH THIS YEAR.
_ _ 0 -
THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 1977
SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR SHAM SHU I PO YOUTHS
* * * * *
AN EXHIBITION TO INTRODUCE YOUNG RESIDENTS OF SHAM SHU I PO TO THE SUMMER ACTIVITIES ORGANISED FOR THEM WILL BE HELD AT THE MAPLE STREET PLAYGROUND THIS SATURDAY (JULY 2).
THE PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES IN THE COMING SUMMER VACATION, DRAWN UP BY THE SHAM SHU I PO YOUTH CENTRE OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, WILL BE DISPLAYED BY MORE THAN 20 WORK GROUPS OF THE CENTRE.
IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE EXHIBITION, WHICH WILL BE OPEN FROM 2 TO 8 P.M., THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES MOBILE THEATRE WILL STAGE A VARIETY SHOW ON THE FOOTBALL PITCH OF THE PLAYGROUND.
THE AUDIENCE ATTENDING THIS FREE PRESENTATION WILL BE ABLE TO SEE MEMBERS OF THE CENTRE DEMONSTRATE CHINESE MARTIAL ART, JUDO, FENCING, FOLK DANCE, SOCIAL DANCE, GUITAR PLAYING AND DRAMA.
THE THEME OF THIS YEAR’S SUMMER PROGRAMME IS +DEVELOP YOUR HAPPINESS THROUGH SERVICE*. APART FROM ENCOURAGING YOUNG PEOPLE TO PARTICIPATE IN RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES, THE YOUTH CENTRE WILL ALSO RUN SEVERAL SERVICE PROJECTS TO HELP THE YOUTHS TO SERVE THEIR NE IGHBOURS.
SCHEMES, WHICH ARE DEVISED ON AN AREA BASIS, INCLUDE A KAM TIN COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT AND A CHEUNG SHA WAN LICENSED AREA COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT.
PARTICIPANTS WILL HELP ORGANISE HOME VISITS, FUN FAIRS, OUTINGS FOR FAMILIES LIVING IN THE AREAS, AND PROVIDE HOMEWORK GUIDANCE TO CHILDREN.
ALSO STARTING FROM AUGUST, THE CENTRE WILL OFFER SWIMMING COURSES FOR THE HANDICAPPED. THESE WILL BE CONDUCTED AT THE LI CHENG UK SWIMMING POOL EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY.
ANOTHER MAJOR ITEM OF THE SERVICE PROJECT IS THE SELLING OF SECOND HAND BOOKS, WHICH WILL BENEFIT MANY STUDENTS BY ENABLING THEM TO BUY BOOKS AT A MUCH LOWER PRICE.
BESIDES GIVING SERVICE, PARTICIPANTS WILL BE ABLE TO ENJOY MANY OUT-DOOR AND IN-DOOR ACTIVITIES, SUCH AS TAKING PART IN TABLE TENNIS TOURNAMENTS, CHINESE BILLIARD TOURNAMENTS, LAUNCH PICNICS, CHILDREN’S GAMES RALLIES AND CAMPING.
THIS YEAR’S SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME FOR SHAM SHUl PO WILL BEGIN IN MID-JULY AND CONTINUE THROUGHOUT AUGUST. A PHOTO COMPETITION ON ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY THE CENTRE WILL BE HELD, AND THE WINNING ENTRIES WILL EE PUBLICLY EXHIBITED.
THOSE WHO ARE INTERESTED ARE REQUESTED TO REGISTER WITH THE SHAM SHUl PO YOUTH CENTRE AT 88, YU CHAU STREET, 1ST FLOOR, KOwLOCN. THEY CAN ALSO CALL 3-811944 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.
THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 1977
- 4 -
TREASURY TO INSTALL NEW COMPUTER
*******
IN ITS CONTINUING EFFORTS TO INCREASE EFFICIENCY IN MEETING NUMEROUS BILLING AND ACCOUNTING FUNCTIONS AS WELL AS TO COPE WITH NEW ACCOUNTING SYSTEMS BEING DEVELOPED, THE TREASURY HAS PLACED AN ORDER FOR AN ICL 2963 COMPUTER TO REPLACE ITS EXISTING COMPUTER.
THE NEW COMPUTER IS A POWERFUL MEDIUM CAPACITY SYSTEM, THE LATEST ADDITION TO ICL’S 2900 RANGE, WHICH WAS LAUNCHED IN JUNE LAST YEAR.
THE NEW SYSTEM, THE FIRST ICL 2960 IN HONG KONG, IS TO BE INSTALLED EARLY NEXT YEAR AS A +2960/DME VERSION*, ABLE TO HANDLE THE WORKLOAD OF THE EXISTING COMPUTER WITHOUT ALTERATIONS TO CURRENT PROGRAMMES.
BY JANUARY 1979 IT WILL BE OPERATED UNDER THE OPERATING SYSTEM +VME/B+ AND WILL THUS BE COMPATIBLE WITH THE DUAL ICL 2970 SYSTEM BEING INSTALLED AT THE DATA PROCESSING DIVISION.
REFERRING TO THE EXISTING COMPUTER, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TREASURY SAID THE COMPUTER WAS COMMISSIONED ALMOST SEVEN YEARS AGO AND IS NOW APPROACHING THE END OF ITS USEFUL LIFE.
+ALTHOUGH VARIOUS ENHANCEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE DURING
THESE YEARS, THE POINT HAS NOW BEEN REACHED WHERE, FOR ALL PRACTICAL PURPOSES, FURTHER ENHANCEMENT AND THE PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL FACILITIES IS NOT POSSIBLE,* HE SAID.
BESIDES HANDLING THE PAYROLL OF SOME 107,090 CIVIL SERVANTS AND 30,000 PENSIONERS, THE COMPUTER ALSO HANDLES RATING VALUATION, THE BILLING AND ACCOUNTING OF RATES AND PROPERTY TAX, CROWN RENTS AND PREMIA, AND THE GOVERNMENT’S WIDOWS AND ORPHANS SCHEME FOR ITS EMPLOYEES.
+THE VOLUME OF WORK HAS INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY SINCE THE COMPUTER WAS COMMISSIONED AND TWENTY-FOUR HOURS A DAY OPERATION IS NOW REQUIRED AT PEAK PERIODS EACH MONTH.*
HE RECALLED THAT IN 1970-71, THE YEAR THE COMPUTER INSTALLATION WAS COMMISSIONED, THE DEPARTMENT (BESIDES OTHER ACCOUNTING DUTIES) DISBURSED SOME $2,999.9 MILLION AND COLLECTED $1,113.4 MILLION.
+IN THAT YEAR IT ALSO ISSUED SOME 1.5 MILLION DEMAND NOTES, 2.7 MILLION RECEIPTS, PROCESSED SOME 1.1 MILLION SALARY AND PENSION PAYMENTS AND EXAMINED AND PASSED FOR PAYMENT SOME 315,000 BILLS AND CLAIMS.
+BY 1975-76, THE AMOUNT OF MONEY DISBURSED AND COLLECTED BY THE DEPARTMENT HAD MORE THAN DOUBLED REACHING $8,579.2 MILLION AND $2,391.6 MILLION RESPECTIVELY,* HE SAID.
THERE HAVE ALSO BEEN INCREASES OF MORE THAN 40 PER CENT IN THE NUMBER OF DEMAND NOTES AND RECEIPTS ISSUED, A MARKED INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF SALARY AND PENSION PAYMENTS PROCESSED, AND A MORE THAN FOUR-FOLD INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF BILLS AND CLAIMS EXAMINED AND PASSED FOR PAYMENT.
/SYSTEMS
5
SYSTEMS WHICH ARE CURRENTLY UNDER DEVELOPMENT INCLUDE ACCOUNTING FOR LOANS TO STUDENTS, AN ON-LINE DATA COLLECTION NETWORK FOR RECEIPTING OFFICES, ACCOUNTING FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO A NEW WIDOWS AND C'HILDREN’S PENSIONS SCHEME, IMPROVEMENT OF THE RATES BILLING AND ACCOUNTING SYSTEM, AND GOVERNMENT’S CENTRALISED ACCOUNTS.
+ THE LATTER SYSTEM IS A MAJOR PROJECT AND WILL BE THE MOST IMPORTANT SO FAR DEVELOPED. IT WILL FACILITATE SPEEDIER ACCESS TO VITAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND PROVIDE A BASE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING SYSTEMS,* HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT THE NEW COMPUTER WILL PROVIDE FACILITIES THAT WERE NOT PREVIOUSLY AVAILABLE.
+TREASURY IS RESPONSIBLE FOR A NUMBER OF TIME-CRITICAL OPERATIONS ON WHICH LARGE AMOUNTS OF GOVERNMENT’S REVENUE AND THE PAY OF THE CIVIL SERVICE DEPEND. THE COMPUTER PLAYS A VITAL ROLE IN THESE OPERATIONS AND THIS ROLE IS INCREASING.*
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LAND FORMATION FOR PUBLIC HOUSING PROJECT IN TUEN MUN * * *
LAND FORMATION WORK IS TO START LATER THIS YEAR AT SHAN SHEK WAN IN TUEN MUN TO PROVIDE SITE FOR A PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE PLANNED FOR 50,000 PEOPLE.
IT FORMS PART OF A 377 MILLION RECLAMATION AND LAND FORMATION PROJECT ALREADY UNDERWAY IN THE NEW TOWN WHICH WILL EVENTUALLY PRODUCE 77 HECTARES OF RESIDENTIAL AND INDUSTRIAL LAND.
THE LAND FORMATION AT SHAN SHEK WAN WILL TAKE ABOUT TWO YEARS TO COMPLETE. IT WILL INVOLVE THE RESUMPTION OF ABOUT 18,870 SQUARE METERS OF PRIVATE AGRICULTURAL LAND.
A ONE MONTH’S NOTICE OF THE RESUMPTION WAS PUBLISHED IN TODAY’S GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
A NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION SPOKESMAN SAID OWNERS OF THE PRIVATE AGRICULTURAL LAND WOULD EE OFFERED THE ALTERNATIVE OF CASH COMPENSATION OR LAND EXCHANGE ENTITLEMENT DOCUMENTS.
THE GOVERNMENT WILL ALSO PAY COMPENSATION FOR CROPS, FRUIT TREES IRRIGATION SUMPS, WELLS, GRAVES AND BONE POTS, EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCE TO SHOPS WORKSHOPS, PIGBREEDERS AND POULTRY FARMERS, as Sell as ex-gratia compensation to cultivators, he said.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID SOME 282 TEMPORARY DOMESTIC STRUCTURES, MOSTLY ON CROWN LAND AND OCCUPIED BY 237 FAMILIES, WOULD HAV^ TO BE CLEARED.
+THESE FAMILIES, IF FOUND ELIGIBLE, WILL HOUSING IN TUEN MUN- AND THOSE INELIGIBLE FOR BE OFFERED TEMPORARY HOUSING*, HE SAID.
BE OFFERED PUBLIC PUBLIC HOUSING W ILL
A TOTAL OF 882 OTHER ANCILLARY TEMPORARY STRUCTURES WILL ALSO EE CLEARED.
/6........
THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 1977
6
LAW ON CARTRIDGE OPERATED TOOLS EFFECTIVE TOMORROW ******
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TODAY REMINDED FACTORY PROPRIETORS AND WORKERS THAT REGULATIONS CONTROLLING THE USE OF CARTRIDGE OPERATED FIXING TOOLS WILL COME INTO FORCE TOMORROW (JULY 1).
THESE TOOLS, A SIMPLE AND INEXPENSIVE ALTERNATIVE TO DRILLING, ARE WIDELY USED FOR FASTENING ATTACHMENTS TO WALLS AND CEILINGS AND HAVE BEEN THE CAUSE OF 41 ACCIDENTS, INCLUDING FOUR FATAL ONES SINCE 1973.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID, +MOST OF THE ACCIDENTS HAPPENED BECAUSE THE OPERATORS HAD NOT BEEN PROPERLY TRAINED IN THE USE OF THESE TOOLS.+
THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (CARTRIDGE OPERATED FIXING TOOLS) REGULATIONS 1977, APPROVED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN MARCH IMPOSE REQUIREMENTS ON A CONTRACTOR OR PROPRIETOR AND THE OPERATOR OF THESE TOOLS.
THE MAIN PROVISIONS OF THE REGULATIONS AREs
* ONLY TOOLS APPROVED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR AND SPECIFIED IN THE SCHEDULE TO THE REGULATIONS MAY BE USED IN AN INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKING-
* AN OPERATOR OF A TOOL MUST NOT BE UNDER 18, AND MUST HOLD A CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY IN A FORM APPROVED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR-
* ONLY CARTRIDGES WHICH MEET THE MANUFACTURERS’ SPECIFICATIONS MAY BE USED WITH A PARTICULAR TOOL-
* A SUITABLE STRONG BOX, WITH A LOCK, MUST BE PROVIDED FOR THE TOOL- AND THE BOX MUST CONTAIN AN INSTRUCTION MANUAL IN ENGLISH AND CHINESE ON THE CARE AND OPERATION OF THE TOOL.
* THE TOOL MUST BE USED IN A PLACE WHICH IS SUITABLY LIT AND SAFE AND WHERE THERE IS NO FLAMMABLE VAPOUR- AND
# IF A PROPRIETOR OF AN INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKING ON A CONTRACTOR IN CONSTRUCTION WORK COMMITS AN OFFENCE, HE IS LIABLE TO A FINE OF 35,000,AND IF AN OPERATOR COMMITS AN OFFENCE, HE IS LIABLE TO A FINE OF 32,093.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 1977
SURVEY OF PRE-WAR PREMISES
* * * *
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT WILL CARRY OUT A SURVEY OF PRE-WAR PREMISES STARTING FROM SATURDAY (JULY 2).
IN COLLABORATION WITH THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT, A NUMBER OF ENUMERATORS WILL VISIT ALL THE PRE-WAR BUILDINGS THROUGHOUT HONG KONG, KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES TO COLLECT INFORMATION ON RENTAL PARTICULARS, CONDITIONS OF THE BUILDINGS, AND HOUSEHOLD SIZE AND INCOME OF THE OCCUPANTS.
THE SURVEY WILL LAST FOR THE WHOLE OF JULY.
EACH ENUMERATOR WILL CARRY AN OFFICIAL IDENTITY CARD ISSUED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, AND ALL OCCUPANTS OF THESE PREMISES ARE ASKED TO CO-OPERATE BY PROVIDING THE NECESSARY INFORMATION TO THE ENUMERATORS.
THE INFORMATION COLLECTED FROM THE HOUSEHOLDS WILL BE KEPT IN STRICT CONFIDENCE AND WILL BE USED FOR STATISTICAL PURPOSES ONLY.
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DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE TO OPEN REGIONAL SCOUT HEADQUARTERS ******
THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR. THOMAS LEE, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE SCOUT ASSOCIATION EAST KOWLOON REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS AT 5.30 P.M. TOMORROW (FR IDAY).
THE EAST KOWLOON REGION WAS ESTABLISHED IN JULY LAST YEAR AND GEOGRAPHICALLY IT EMBRACES THE CITY DISTRICTS OF KWUN TONG AND WONG TAI SIN. THE REGION HAS SIX SCOUT DISTRICTS WITH A TOTAL MEMBERSHIP OF SOME 5,000 SCOUTS.
LOCATED ON THE GROUND AND FIFTH FLOORS OF KU I ON HOUSE, WO LOK ESTATE IN KWUN TONG, THE REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS HAS A TOTAL AREA OF ABOUT 6,403 SQ. FT. MAINLY USED FOR OFFICES, UNITS FOR TRAINING SESSIONS AND ACTIVITIES, AND ROOMS FOR MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES.
NOTE TO ED I TORS:-
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE SCOUT ASSOCIATION EAST KOWLOON HEADQUARTERS TO BE HELD AT THE KU I ON HOUSE, WO LOK ESTATE IN KWUN TONG TOMORROW (JULY 1) AT 5.30 P.M.
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THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 1977
8
INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATIVE DAY CELEBRATION
******
NOTE TO EDITORS:
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, MR. E.H. NICHOLS, WHO IS ALSO REGISTRAR OF CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES, WILL SPEAK ON THE OCCASION OF THE 55TH INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATIVE DAY AT A CELEBRATION DINNER ON SATURDAY (JULY 2).
THE DINNER WILL BE HELD AT THE GOOD DATES RESTAURANT, AT 86 WATERLOO ROAD, KOWLOON, BEGINNING AT 7 P.M.
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE EVENT.
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