港史文本 - HK In Texts: Daily Information Bulletin - 1980s - 1987 - NOV

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1987

CONTENTS PAGS NO,

HK TAKES PART IN MAJOR UK EXHIBITION ....................... 1

PROVISIONAL REGISTER READY FOR INSPECTION .................. 2

"FIRE LAWS PROTECT" IS CAMPAIGN THEME....................... 3

RED CROSS YOUTH PRAISED FOR DEDICATED SERVICE............... 5

FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY NEEDS BETTER TRAINED WORKERS ............. 6

TSUEN WAN DB MEETING........................................ 7

TRAM EXHIBITION HIGHLIGHTS EASTERN DEVELOPMENT ............. 7

LOG* SOUGHT FOR KWUN TONG DFCC .............................

KOWLOON CITY HOTLINE TO HELP RESIDENTS......................

TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN TIN WAN.............................

ROAD BRIDGES BEING BUILT IN YUEN LONG....................... 11

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN CAUSEWAY BAY......................

ROAD CLOSURE IN YAU MA TEI ................................. 12

WATER CUTS IN TUEN MUN, KWAI CHUNG.......................... 12

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1987

HK TAKES PART IN MAJOR UK EXHIBITION

* * * *

HONG KONG IS PARTICIPATING FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE INTERNATIONAL PLASTICS AND RUBBER EXHIBITION (INTERPLAS 87) TO BE HELD AT BIRMINGHAM’S NATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE FROM NOVEMBER 3 TO 7.

INTERPLAS 87 IS THE 14TH IN A SERIES WHICH STARTED IN 1951. IT IS THE LARGEST AND MOST IMPORTANT EXHIBITION OF ITS KIND IN THE ENGLISH SPEAKING WORLD.

THIS YEAR’S EXHIBITION INCORPORATES MORE THAN 1,100 COMPANIES DRAWN FROM 37 COUNTRIES WITH 600 STANDS OCCUPYING A TOTAL EXHIBITION AREA OF 40,000 SQUARE METRES.

ITERPLAS IS A FIRST CLASS "SHOP WINDOW" FOR ALL OF THE PLASTICS AND RUBBER INDUSTRIES WORLD-WIDE, AS WELL AS PROVIDING AN INTERNATIONAL LAUNCH PAD FOR AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF NEW PRODUCTS ANJ TECHNIQUES.

HONG KONG’S STAND AT THE EXHIBITION IS PRESENTED BY THE INDUSTRIAL PROMOTION UNIT OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNME1.T OFFICE IN LONDON. THE STAND GRAPHICS DISPLAYED HIGHLIGHTS HONG KONG AS AN OFF-SHORE MANUFACTURING BASE, GIVING THE REASONS FOR SETTING UP BUSINESS IN HONG KONG.

"WE ARE PROMOTING INDUSTRIAL OPPORTUNITIES IN HONG KONO ON A GENERAL BASIS, BUT, AS INTERPLAS 87 IS AN INTERNATIONAL PLASTICS AND RUBBER EXHIBITION, WE ARE PLACING MORE EMPHASIS ON OUR PLASTICS INDUSTRY ON THIS OCCASION," SAID THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT’S PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT FOR INDUSTRY IN LONDON, MR DONALD FLETCHER.

"THE REASONS FOR INVESTING IN HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES BEING: WE HAVE A CONSISTENT FREE TRADE AND ENTERPRISE POLICY; NO EXCHANGE CONTROLS; PROFITS TAX OF ONLY 18 PER CENT; A FREE PORT WITH SIMPLE IMPORT AND EXPORT PROCEDURES AND A SKILLED AND PRODUCTIVE WORKFORCE.

"FURTHERMORE, WE HAVE THE WORLD'S SECOND LARGEST CONTAINER TERMINAL TOGETHER WITH THE BEST COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS IN ASIA, AND, LAST BUT NOT LEAST, WE ARE EXPORTING ONE BILLION POUNDS STERLING OF PLASTIC PRODUCTS A YEAR," MR FLETCHER EXPLAINED.

THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY ACCOUNTED FOR EIGHT PER CENT OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND 10 PER CENT OF TOTAL INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYMENT IN 1986.

HONG KONG CONTINUES TO BE ONE OF THE WORLD’S LEADING SUPPLIERS OF TOYS, WHICH REPRESENTED THE BULK OF THE INDUSTRY’S OUTPUT.

DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF PLASTIC PRODUCTS DURING THE YEAR WERE VALUED AT NEARLY $13 BILLION. THE INDUSTRY HAS 5,460 ESTABLISHMENTS AND 89,447 WORKERS.

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1987

PROVISIONAL REGISTER READY FOR INSPECTION » t » ♦ ♦

A PROVISIONAL REGISTER OF ELECTORS WILL BE PUBLISHED ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 6) AND BE OPEN TO PUBLIC INSPECTION UNTIL NOVEMBER 20.

"ABOUT 183,500 NEWLY REGISTERED ELECTORS HAVE BEEN ADDED TO THE REGISTER FOLLOWING THE RECENT REGISTRATION DRIVE," SAID THE REGISTRATION OFFICER, MR LAI KWAN-TAT.

"THIS BRINGS THE TOTAL REGISTRATION FIGURE TO 1.6 MILLION AFTER TAKING INTO ACCOUNT ABOUT 30,000 OMISSIONS DUE TO DEATHS, LOSS OF CONTACT ARISING FROM UNREPORTED CHANGES OF RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS AND OTHER FACTORS," HE ADDED.

THE LARGEST INCREASE WAS RECORDED IN THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT WHERE 26,113 NEW ELECTORS WERE REGISTERED, FOLLOWED BY EASTERN DISTRICT WITH 18,344 NEW ENTRIES.

THE PROVISIONAL REGISTER WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION BETWEEN NOVEMBER 6 AND NOVEMBER 20 AT THE REGISTRATION AND ELECTORAL DIVISION (RED) AT HARBOUR CENTRE, 10TH FLOOR, 25 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.

RELEVANT PARTS OF THE REGISTER WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE AT RESPECTIVE DISTRICT OFFICES DURING THE SAME PERIOD. ANYONE WHO HAS ANY VALID GROUNDS TO OBJECT TO THE INCLUSION OF CERTAIN NAMES IN THE REGISTER MAY LODGE A NOTICE OF OBJECTION IN PERSON WITH THE RED ON A SPECIFIC FORM THIS MUST BE DONE BY

NOVEMBER 25.

ELIGIBLE PERSONS STILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO REGISTER AS ELECTORS. APPLICATIONS THAT REACH THE REGISTRATION OFFICER BY NOVEMBER 20 WILL BE PROCESSED FOR INCLUSION IN THE 1987 FINAL REGISTER, MR LAI SAID.

"THIS IS THE LAST CHANCE FOR REGISTRATION IF A PERSON WISHES TO VOTE IN THE NEXT DISTRICT BOARD ELECTIONS ON MARCH 10, 1988," HE

SAID.

ELECTORS ARE ALSO URGED TO NOTIFY THE REGISTRATION OFFICER OF ANY CHANGE OF RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE SO THAT THEY CAN VOTE IN THE CONSTITUENCY OF THEIR NEW ADDRESS.

THESE CHANGES MAY BE INCORPORATED IN THE 1987 FINAL REGISTER IF THEY ARE REPORTED BY DECEMBER 10.

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/3........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1987

“FIRE LAWS PROTECT” IS CAMPAIGN THEME ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

TO ENABLE THE PUBLIC TO UNDERSTAND THE LEGAL IMPLICATIONS THAT COULD ARISE FROM CONTRAVENTION OF CERTAIN FIRE SAFETY LAWS, THE THEME “FIRE LAWS PROTECT” HAD BEEN CHOSEN FOR THE FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN THIS YEAR, THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES, MR JOHN MARCH, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) AT THE LAUNCHING OF THE 1987-88 FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN.

HE EXPLAINED THAT THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT DERIVED NO PLEASURE IN TAKING PEOPLE TO COURT BUT IT WOULD NOT HESITATE TO DO SO WHEN HAZARDS POSED AN UNACCEPTABLE THREAT TO FIRE SAFETY.

HE SAID THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, IN COLLABORATION WITH THE FIRE SERVICES AND OTHER AGENCIES, HAD BEEN ACTIVE IN PROVIDING SUITABLE POSTERS, PAMPHLETS AND OTHER INFORMATIVE RESOURCES TO ENSURE THAT THIS YEAR’S THEME WAS WIDELY DISSEMINATED AND DRIVEN HOME.

WORLDWIDE, OVER THE PAST YEAR, FIRE HAD CONTINUED TO CAUSE PAIN, SUFFERING AND DEATH AS WELL AS WASTEFUL DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY, AND REGRETTABLY, HONG KONG WAS NO EXCEPTION, MR MARCH SAID.

HE SAID: “IN THE LATTER PART OF 1986, WE WITNESSED THE MUCH PUBLICISED AND TRAGIC DEATHS OF 13 WORKERS AS A RESULT OF A FIRE IN A FUR FACTORY. SHORTLY AFTERWARDS THERE WERE SERIOUS FIRES IN THE ABERDEEN TYPHOON SHELTER AND CHU KOO CHAI SQUATTER AREA WHICH RESULTED IN 4,000 PEOPLE BEING RENDERED HOMELESS. IN FACT, OVER THE PAST YEAR, 34 PERSONS HAVE DIED FROM FIRE AND OVER 580 HAVE BEEN INJURED, MANY OF THEM DISFIGURED FOR LIFE.”

OF THE GOVERNMENT’S EFFORTS IN FIRE PREVENTION, HE SAID: “THE GOVERNMENT IS VERY CONSCIOUS OF THE NEED TO REDUCE THE INCIDENCE OF FIRE AND ITS RESULTANT TRAGIC EFFECTS. EACH YEAR, FUNDS ARE PROVIDED FOR A FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN AIMED AT EDUCATING AND ENCOURAGING PUBLIC CO-OPERATION IN THE FIGHT AGAINST FIRE.

"EMPHASIS IS PLACED UPON A PARTICULAR THEME EVERY YEAR TO ENSURE THE MESSAGE IS AS EASY TO UNDERSTAND AS POSSIBLE BY THE PUBLIC."

OVER THE LAST THREE YEARS THE THEMES HAD CONCENTRATED ON THE MEANS OF ESCAPE FROM FIRE, CARELESSNESS AND THE EFFECTS OF SMOKE.

MR MARCH SAID HE WAS PLEASED TO NOTE THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S EFFORTS APPEARED TO BE PAYING OFF AS THE INCREASE IN FIRE INCIDENTS WAS NOT AS MARKED AS IT HAD BEEN A FEW YEARS AGO, AND DEATHS AND INJURIES OVER THE LAST THREE YEARS HAD REMAINED AT ABOUT THE SAME LEVELS.

"NEVERTHELESS, WE CANNOT BE COMPLACENT AND WB MUST CONTINUE IN OUR ENDEAVOURS TO TRY TO REDUCE THESE FIGURES,” HE SAID.

/MR MARCH.......

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 198?

MR MARCH ALSO NOTED THAT THE MAJORITY OF PEOPLE ARE CONCENTRATED IN HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS WHICH ARE PROVIDED WITH PARTICULAR IN-BUILT FIRE PROTECTION MEASURES IN ORDER TO REDUCE THE RISK TO LIFE IN THE EVENT OF FIRE.

’’UNFORTUNATELY, IT ONLY REQUIRES A THOUGHTLESS OR SELFISH ACT UPON THE PART OF ONE TENANT OF A BUILDING WHO INTERFERES WITH THOSE SAFETY MEASURES TO PLACE THE LIVES OF MANY HUNDREDS OF PERSONS IN JEOPARDY IN THE EVENT OF FIRE IN THAT BUILDING,” HE SAID.

“THERE HAVE BEEN TOO MANY INSTANCES OF SUCH PRACTICES IN THE PAST AND WE HAVE THEREFORE FOUND IT NECESSARY RECENTLY TO OBTAIN LEGAL PROVISIONS TO COUNTER AND DETER SUCH ACTS.”

GIVING EXAMPLES OF THE PENALTIES THAT PEOPLE WHO COMMIT OFFENCES AGAINST FIRE REGULATIONS MAY FACE, HE SAID: "A PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PLACING A SERIOUS OBSTRUCTION IN A MEANS OF ESCAPE MAY BE PROSECUTED DIRECTLY AND BE LIABLE TO A FINE OF $25,000 ON FIRST CONVICTION AND TO $50,000 ON A SECOND OR SUBSEQUENT CONVICTION*

’’ALSO, AN OFFENDER IS LIABLE TO A FINE OF $5,000 FOR EACH DAY THE OFFENCE CONTINUES. THERE IS ALSO PROVISION FOP A PRISON SENTENCE OF UP TO ONE YEAR FOR SERIOUS TRANSGRESSORS."

MR MARCH APPEALED FOR THE WHOLEHEARTED COOPERATION AND SUPPORT OF THE PUBLIC IN REDUCING THE INCIDENCE OF FIRE.

THIS AFTERNOON’S CEREMONY ATTRACTED HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE TO THE EDINBURGH PLACE.

AFTER THE CEREMONY, THERE WAS A SPECTACULAR FIRE DEMONSTRATION BY FIREMEN OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF FIRE-FIGHTING AND RESCUE TECHNIQUES.

THE PUBLIC WAS ALSO INVITED TO LOOK OVER A LARGE-SCALE DISPLAY OF FIRE APPLIANCES, AMBULANCES, FIRE FIGHTING AND RESCUE EQUIPMENT AND DISPLAY PANELS WITH EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS ON FIRE PREVENTION.

THEY WERE ALSO INVITED TO BOARD A FIRE BOAT BERTHED AT QUEEN’S PIER TO SEE THE MODERN FIRE-FIGHTING EQUIPMENT ON BOARD.

SPECTATORS RECEIVED FIRE PREVENTION SOUVENIRS INCLUDING LEAFLETS, RUBBERS, RULERS AND TIMETABLES IMPRINTED WITH FIRE PREVENTION MESSAGES. THESE GIVE-AWAY ITEMS WERE DONATED BY THE KWONG ON BANK LTD IN SUPPORT OF THE FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN.

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1987

- 5 -

RED CROSS YOUTH PRAISED FOR DEDICATED SERVICE * * « * t

THE GREAT VARIETY OF SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE RED CROSS YOUTH DEMONSTRATED THAT THEY HAD TRULY LIVED UP TO THEIR MOVEMENT’S MOTTO WHICH IS "TO SERVE ONE ANOTHER", THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR MICHAEL THOMAS, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE HONG KONG RED CROSS YOUTH PARADE 1987, MR THOMAS DESCRIBED HONG KONG AS A FAST-MOVING CITY WHERE EVERYONE WAS ALWAYS BUSY.

"I AM PROUD THAT IN THIS HECTIC PLACE THERE ARE YOUNG PEOPLE, SUCH AS THE RED CROSS YOUTH, WHO CAN FIND PRECIOUS TIME AND ENERGY ON TOP OF ALL THEIR ACTIVITIES TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE WELL-BEING OF OTHERS," HE SAID.

DURING THE YEAR, THE RED CROSS YOUTH HAD UNDERTAKEN 81 COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS, SERVING AROUND 13,000 MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, MR THOMAS SAID.

THIS YEAR, A TOTAL OF SOME 8,700 PEOPLE PARTICIPATED IN THE WORK OF THE RED CROSS, AND THE MAJORITY OF THEM WERE YOUNG PEOPLE.

THE OVERALL MEMBERSHIP GROWTH IN THE YEAR SET NEW RECORDS WITH A 14 PER CENT INCREASE.

"SUCH ACHIEVEMENTS CANNOT BE ATTAINED WITHOUT HARD WORK OF THE PATRONS, LEADERS AND STAFF OF YOUR ORGANISATION," HE ADDED.

MR THOMAS ALSO SAID THE FUTURE OF EVERY SOCIETY DEPENDED ON ITS YOUNG PEOPLE AND THEIR COMMITMENT TO ITS FUTURE.

"BY SERVING OTHER PEOPLE, I HOPE EACH ONE OF YOU WILL DEVELOP A SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS YOUR FELLOW MEN AND THEREBY STRIVE TO MAKE HONG KONG A BETTER PLACE FOR ALL TO LIVE IN."

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/6........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1,

1987

_ 6 -

FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY NEEDS BETTER TRAINED WORKERS - * * « « *

THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY TRAINING BOARD OF THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL REPORTS THAT THE GROWING FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY IS MOVING UPMARKETS AND THUS REQUIRES A MORE SKILLED WORKFORCE.

THE BOARD NOTED IN A SURVEY REPORT THAT MANY SHOE MANUFACTURERS HAD MOVED UPMARKET BY PRODUCING HIGHER QUALITY PRODUCTS, PARTICULARLY LADIES FASHION SHOES.

A BETTER TRAINED WORKFORCE, ESPECIALLY THOSE FOR DESIGN, PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT AND PERSONNEL SUPERVISION, WAS ESSENTIAL TO SUPPORT THE GROWTH OF THE INDUSTRY’S SHOE BRANCH.

THE BOARD FORECAST THAT THE SHOE BRANCH, WHICH EMPLOYED 84 PER CENT OF THE INDUSTRY’S TOTAL WORKFORCE, WOULD CONTINUE TO GROW STEADILY.

TECHNICIANS WERE KEY PERSONNEL IN THE INDUSTRY AND THE BOARD URGED EMPLOYERS TO EXERT GREATER EFFORTS IN ORGANISING PROPER TECHNICIAN TRAINING SCHEMES.

THE SURVEY, CONDUCTED LAST NOVEMBER, RECORDED THAT THERE WERE ONLY 13 TRAINEES AND APPRENTICES RECEIVING APPROPRIATE PRACTICAL TRAINING. THIS NUMBER FELL FAR SHORT OF THE MANPOWER NEEDS OF THE INDUSTRY, THE BOARD SAID.

THE BOARD ESTIMATED THAT EMPLOYERS SHOULD TRAIN AT LEAST TWO TECHNOLOGISTS, 15 TECHNICIANS, 50 CRAFTSMEN AND 240 OPERATIVES ANNUALLY TO REPLACE THE AGEING WORKERS AND TO COPE WITH THE MODEST GROWTH OF THE WHOLE INDUSTRY.

THE SURVEY ALSO NOTED THAT THE OVERALL MANPOWER OF THE INDUSTRY HAD DROPPED SLIGHTLY FROM ABOUT 7,800 IN 1983 TO 7,500 IN 1986, DUE TO THE DECLINE OF THE OTHER TWO BRANCHES IN SOFT SOLE AND RUBBER SHOES. THESE EMPLOYED, RESPECTIVELY, NINE PER CENT AND SEVEN PER CENT OF THE TOTAL WORKFORCE.

CONTAINING DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS AND STATISTICS OF THE MANPOWER SITUATION OF THE INDUSTRY, THE 1986 MANPOWER SURVEY REPORT ON THE FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY IS NOW AVAILABLE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE IN CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AT *15 A COPY.

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/7........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1,

1987

- 7 -

TSUEN WAN DB MEETING * « * » ♦

MEMBERS OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD WILL EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS ON THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON TAXI POLICY REVIEW AT A MEETING TO BE HfeLD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3.

THE PAPER PRESENTED BY THE TRANSPORT BRANCH DEALS WITH RECOMMENDATIONS ON LONG TERM POLICY ON TAXIS.

QUESTIONS ON THE CRITERIA FOR GIVING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES WILL BE RAISED AT THE MEETING.

REPORTS ON THE WORK OF THE COMMITTEES OF THE DISTRICT BOARD WILL ALSO BE TABLED AT THE MEETING.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD MEETING WILL BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3 AT 2.30 PM IN THE MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, SECOND FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, 174-208 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, TSUEN WAN.

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER.

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TRAM EXHIBITION HIGHLIGHTS EASTERN DEVELOPMENT *****

A MOBILE PHOTO EXHIBITION ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF EASTERN DISTRICT WAS HELD TODAY (SUNDAY), EMPHASISING THE THEME OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL - ’’PARTICIPATING IN YOUR DISTRICT’S DEVELOPMENT”.

MOUNTED ON A DECORATED CLASSIC TRAM, THE EXHIBITS GAVE AN ACCOUNT OF THE GENERAL PICTURE OF EASTERN DISTRICT, PUBLIC AND PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT PLANS IN THE DISTRICT AS WELL AS THE WORK OF THE DISTRICT BOARD.

IN ADDITION, THE EASTERN DISTRICT CIVIC EDUCATION PROMOTION WORKING GROUP, THE FOK SING OFFICE OF ICAC AND THE YOUTH GROUP OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT YOUTH RECREATION COORDINATING COMMITTEE JOINTLY PRODUCED AN EXHIBITION ON CIVIC RESPONSIBILITIES. THIS WAS ALSO MOUNTED ON A CLASSIC TRAM.

/A CARTOON .......

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1?8?

A CARTOON CHARACTER ’’CIVIC DRAGON" WAS SPECIALLY CREATED TO INTRODUCE THE CONTENTS OF THE EXHIBITIONS TO VISITORS.

THE TWO CLASSIC TRAMS WILL TOUR THE DISTRICT FROM CAUSEWAY BAY TO SflAU KEI WAN FROM 1.30 PM TO 5 PM ON NOVEMBER 7, 8 AND 14.

A TRAM WITH AN ADVERTISEMENT ON THE EASTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL TRAVEL AROUND THE DISTRICT TO PUBLICISE THE EVENT WHICH WILL BE LAUNCHED ON NOVEMBER 15.

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LOGO SOUGHT FOR KWUN TONG DFCC t » » ♦

THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE (DFCC) IS HOLDING AN OPEN COMPETITION THAT IT HOPES WILL PRODUCE A DISTINCTIVE LOGO FOR THE ORGANISATION.

A COMMITTEE SPOKESMAN SAID THE AIM IS TO PROJECT THE IMAGE OF THE KWUN TONG DFCC THROUGH A LOGO DESIGN WHICH COULD HIGHLIGHT ITS WORK AND TERMS OF REFERENCE.

THE COMPETITION IS OPEN TO PEOPLE WHO STUDY, LIVE OR WORK IN KWUN TONG.

THE WINNING DESIGN WILL BE USED IN FUTURE PUBLICITY PROJECTS ORGANISED BY THE COMMITTEE.

ENTRIES SHOULD BE IN SINGLE COLOUR ON A SHEET OF CARDBOARD OR DRAWING PAPER MEASURING 30CM X 42CM. THEY SHOULD BE SUBMITTED WITH PARTICULARS OF THE CONTESTANTS AND AN EXPLANATION OF NOT MORE THAN 100 WORDS ABOUT THE CONCEPT OF THE DESIGN.

ALL ENTRIES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICE OR ITS SUB-OFFICES BEFORE NOVEMBER 30.

PRIZES WILL BE AWARDED TO THE THREE BEST ENTRIES.

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/9........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1987

- 9 -

KOWLOON CITY HOTLINE TO HELP RESIDENTS « » » »

THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD HAS SET UP AN EVENING HOTLINE RECORDING SERVICE TO HELP RESIDENTS SOLVE THEIR PROBLEMS AND TO COLLECT VIEWS ON IMPROVING DISTRICT ENVIRONMENTAL, TRAFFIC AND COMMUNITY SERVICES.

THE HOTLINE, 3-7113731, IS TO SUPPLEMENT THE EXISTING DISTRICT BOARD MEET-THE-PUBLIC SCHEME HELD BETWEEN 8 PM AND 10 PM EVERY THURSDAY.

THE RECORDING SERVICE SCHEME, FROM 6 PM TO 10 PM BETWEEN MONDAY AND FRIDAY (EXCEPT PUBLIC HOLIDAYS), WILL BE REVIEWED AFTER A SIX-MONTH TRIAL IN MID-MARCH NEXT YEAR.

CALLERS ARE REQUIRED TO LEAVE THEIR NAMES, TELEPHONE NUMBERS AND ADDRESSES BEFORE GIVING THEIR VIEWS, ENQUIRIES OR COMPLAINTS ABOUT LOCAL PROBLEMS. THEY CAN ALSO REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT TO MEET DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS TO DISCUSS THEIR PROBLEMS.

SINCE THE SERVICE BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 21, THE DISTRICT BOARD HAS DEALT WITH 12 CASES.

THE ENQUIRIES OR COMPLAINTS WERE STUDIED OR REFERRED TO APPROPRIATE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS FOR FOLLOW-UP ACTION.

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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN TIN WAN *****

A NUMBER OF TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, IN ABERDEEN TO COINCIDE WITH THE COMPLETION OF SLOPE WORK ALONG TIN WAN HILL ROAD.

THE ARRANGEMENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

» THE SECTION OF TIN WAN HILL ROAD BETWEEN TIN WAN STREET AND SHEK PAI WAN ROAD WILL BE RE-OPENED TO TRAFFIC.

•

* THE SECTION OF SHEK PAI WAN ROAD BETWEEN TIN WAN HILL ROAD AND TIN WAN STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY EASTBOUND.

* THE SECTION OF TIN WAN HILL ROAD NORTH OF ITS JUNCTION WITH SHEK PAI WAN ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND.

/* THE SECTION .........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1987

- 10 -

• » THE SECTION OF TIN WAN STREET BETWEEN SHEK PAI WAN ROAD AND

TIN WAN NEW STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND.

* THE SECTION OF TIN WAN STREET BETWEEN TIN WAN NEW STREET AND TIN WAN HILL ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY WESTBOUND.

» VEHICLES TRAVELLING IN TIN WAN NEW STREET WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM TURNING LEFT INTO TIN WAN STREET.

» VEHICLES TRAVELLING IN TIN WAN CLOSE WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM TURNING RIGHT INTO TIN WAN STREET.

♦ THE EXISTING 7 AM TO 10 AM AND 4 PM TO 7 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY, IMPLEMENTED ON THE SECTION OF SHEK PAI WAN ROAD FROM A POINT ABOUT 20 METRES WEST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH TIN WAN HILL ROAD TO A POINT OF ABOUT 20 METRES EAST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH TIN WAN STREET, WILL BE RESCINDED.

♦ THE EXISTING 7 AM TO 10 AM AND 4 PM TO 7 t>M DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY, IMPLEMENTED ON THE SECTION OF TIN WAN STREET FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH SHEK PAI WAN ROAD TO A POINT OF ABOUT 10 METRES SOUTH OF ITS JUNCTION WITH TIN WAN CLOSE, WILL ALSO BE RESCINDED.

MEANWHILE, CMB ROUTE NOS. 48 AND 79M, ON DEPARTURE FROM TIN WAN BUS TERMINUS, WILL BE RE-ROUTED VIA TIN WAN NEW STREET, TIN WAN STREET, TIN WAN HILL ROAD AND ABERDEEN PRAYA ROAD.

CMB ROUTE NO. 78, ON DEPARTURE FROM TIN WAN BUS TERMINUS, WILL BE RE-ROUTED VIA TIN WAN NEW STREET, TIN WAN STREET, TIN WAN HILL ROAD AND SHEK PAI WAN ROAD.

GREEN MINIBUS ROUTE NOS. 11 AND 31, ON DEPARTURE FROM THE TERMINAL POINT IN KA WO STREET, WILL BE RE-ROUTED VIA HINO WO STREET, SHEK PAI WAN ROAD, TIN WAN STREET, TIN WAN HILL ROAD AND ABERDEEN PRAYA ROAD.

ALSO, THE METERED PARKING SPACES ON TIN WAN HILL ROAD WILL BE REINSTATED.

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/11 ........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1,

1987

ROAD BRIDGES BEING BUILT IN YUEN LONG ♦ ♦ ♦

WORK ON CONSTRUCTION TWO ROAD BRIDGES IN YUEN LONG HAS STARTED FOLLOWING THE AWARD OF A $11.6 MILLION CONTRACT BY THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT.

THE BRIDGES ARE LOCATED AT MA WANG ROAD, OPPOSITE PING WUI STREET, AND MA MIU ROAD.

THEY ARE BOTH 13.5 METRES LONG AND EACH WILL HAVE A FOOTPATH.

WHEN COMPLETED IN 15 MONTHS, THEY WILL PROVIDE ADDITIONAL ACCESS TO YUEN LONG TOWN, THUS REDUCING THE VOLUME OF TRAFFIC TRAVELLING TO THE AREA VIA CASTLE PEAK ROAD.

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TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN CAUSEWAY BAY ♦ » »

FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, COTTON PATH IN CAUSEWAY BAY WILL BE TEMPORARILY CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC TO FACILITATE ROAD RE-SURFACING WORK.

DURING THE PERIOD OF CLOSURE, SPECIAL ACCESS ARRANGEMENT FOR EMERGENCY VEHICLES TO ST. PAUL’S HOSPITAL WILL BE IMPLEMENTED, AND THE SECTION OF CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN EASTERN HOSPITAL ROAD AND COTTON PATH WILL BE RE-ROUTED TO TWO-WAY TRAFFIC. VEHICLES ON CAROLINE HILL ROAD SOUTHBOUND CAN TRAVEL VIA EASTERN HOSPITAL ROAD TO JOIN TUNG LO WAN ROAD.

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1987

ROAD CLOSURE IN YAU MA TEI * * * *

TO FACILITATE ROAD RECONSTRUCTION WORKS, THE SECTION OF ARTHUR STREET BETWEEN PUBLIC SQUARE STREET AND WING SING LANE IN YAU MA TEI WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FROM 10 AM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 4) FOR ABOUT THREE MONTHS.

VEHICLES ON NATHAN ROAD HEADING FOR WING SING LANE WILL HAVE TO TRAVEL VIA MAN MING LANE, ARTHUR STREET AND WING SING LANE.

0 - -

WATER CUTS IN TUEN MUN, KWAI CHUNG * i *

SALT WATER SUPPLY TO ALL TUEN MUN PREMISES WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 9 AM TO 9 PM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 4) TO FACILITATE MAINTENANCE WORK.

WATER MAINS WORK WILL ALSO BE CARRIED OUT AT THE JUNCTION OF WO YI HOP ROAD AND CHEUNG PEI SHAN ROAD IN KWAI CHUNG. BOTH FRESH AND SALT WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN THE DISTRICT WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 8 PM ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 5) TO 7 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY.

THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT A SECTION OF WO YI HOP ROAD BETWEEN NGONG HOM ROAD AND CHEUNG PEI SHAN ROAD, LO WAI ROAD, HILLTOP ROAD, YI PEI CHUN ROAD, CHEUNG PEI SHAN ROAD, ROUTE TWISK, CHEUNG SHAN CHUEN, CHEUNG SHAN TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA, KWU TUNG CHEUN, HILL TOP COUNTRY CLUB, SAM TUNG UK, WO YI HOP TSUEN, LO WAI, HOI PA CHUEN, PAK TIN PA TSUEN, MA SIN PAI CHUEN, SAI LAU KOK CHUEN, MUK MIN HA CHUEN, TUNG PO TO, FU YUNG SHAN, CHUK LAM SIM YUEN, YUEN YUEN HOK YUEN AND SAN CHUEN.

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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

PERVASIVE CORRUPTION THREATENS STABILITY: SIR DAVID ....... 1

HOPEFUL SIGNS CONFIDENCE HaS BEEN RESTORED TO MARKETS -NENDICK....................................................... 2

AG OUTLINES PUBLIC INTEREST CONSIDERATIONS ................ 4

GOVERNOR VISITS VOLUNTEERS AT BORDER ...................... 8

MONETARY STATISTICS FOR SEPTEMBER REX,EASED ............... 9

SWAC DISCUSSES SOCIAL SECURITY IMPROVEMENT PROPOSALS ...... 14

BOARD TO DISCUSS NGAU CHI WAN VILLAGE LAYOUT PLAN.......... 14

FESTIVAL PROMOTES PARTICIPATION, UNDERSTANDING........... 15

SPORTIVE FORTNIGHT FOR KWUN TONG RESIDENTS ................ 16

SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE HANDLES 4,894 ENQUIRIES A MONTH ... 18

EYE CARE CAMPAIGN ORGANISED FOR ELDERLY.................... 18

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS............. 19

MEETING TO DISCUSS YOUTH SERVICES SURVEY ................. 20

NEW BORDER CONTROL FACILITIES AT WK MA CHAU .............. 20

ROAD WORKS IN TUEN MUN PROPOSED .......................... 21

TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR FLYOVER RECONSTRUCTION .......... 22

WATER STORAGE FIGURE...................................... 22

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2,

1987

PERVASIVE CORRUPTION THREATENS STABILITY: SIR DAVID t * » » *

PERVASIVE CORRUPTION IS AN EVIL THAT THREATENS THE FOUNDATIONS OF SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL STABILITY, THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE THIRD INTERNATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION CONFERENCE, SIR DAVID SAID NO SOCIETY COULD AFFORD TO BE COMPLACENT ABOUT CORRUPTION, ADDING THAT ATTACK ON CORRUPTION REQUIRED VERY POSITIVE GOVERNMENTAL SUPPORT AND A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY THAT CORRUPTION WOULD NOT BE TOLERATED.

”A CIVIL SERVICE THAT IS NOT TAINTED BY CORRUPTION AND A PRIVATE SECTOR WHERE MARKET FORCES ARE NOT DISTORTED BY CORRUPT PRACTICES ARE KEY PILLARS OF THE PROSPERITY AND STABILITY THAT WE CHERISH.

”IN HONG KONG WE ARE DETERMINED TO CONTINUE WITH OUR EFFORTS TO CHECK AND COUNTER CORRUPTION WHEREVER IT APPEARS,” HE SAID.

SIR DAVID SAID THAT THE ICAC NOW ENJOYED A VERY HIGH DEGREE OF PUBLIC CONFIDENCE, AS ILLUSTRATED BY THE INCREASE IN THE NON-ANONYMOUS REPORTS OF CORRUPTION FROM 35 PER CENT IN 1974 TO 65 PER CENT IN 1986. <

THE RESULT WAS THE ELIMINATION OF SYNDICATED CORRUPTION IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE AND A REVERSAL OF PUBLIC ATTITUDES FROM PASSIVELY CONDONING TO ACTIVELY CONDEMNING CORRUPTION.

SIR DAVID ALSO POINTED OUT THAT CORRUPTION IN ITS VARIOUS FORMS HAD ALWAYS BEEN A WORLD-WIDE PROBLEM.

"AS WITH MANY OTHER FORMS OF CRIME, CORRUPTION NOW TRANSCENDS CITY, STATE AND NATIONAL BOUNDARIES.

"INVESTIGATION AND PROSECUTION OF THE CORRUPT OFTEN REQUIRE A HIGH DEGREE OF REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATION BETWEEN DIFFERENT POLICE FORCES AND AGENCIES,” HE NOTED.

SIR DAVID SAID THAT TODAY’S GATHERING REPRESENTED ANOTHER POSITIVE STEP FORWARD IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION AND HE SAW IT AS A NATURAL OUTCOME OF THE GROWING ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATION IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION.

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2,

1987

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HOPEFUL SIGNS CONFIDENCE HAS BEEN RESTORED TO MARKETS - NENDICK ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THERE ARE HOPEFUL SIGNS THAT THE MEASURES THAT HONG KONG HAS TAKEN AND THOSE TAKEN IN OTHER MAJOR FINANCIAL CENTRES HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN RESTORING CONFIDENCE TO THE MARKET PLACE, THE SECRETARY FOR MONETARY AFFAIRS, MR DAVID NENDICK, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

THOUGH THERE WAS STILL WORK TO BE DONE IN ENSURING THAT THE RECENT EVENTS DID NOT RECUR, APPROPRIATE RESPONSES MIGHT NOW BE WORKED OUT IN A CAREFUL AND ORDERLY FASHION WITHOUT THE PRESSURE OF EVENTS LEADING TO HASTY OR ILL-CONSIDERED MEASURES, MR NENDICK SAID WHEN OPENING AN ASIAN BANKERS ASSOCIATION SEMINAR.

IN PUTTING EVENTS OF THE PAST TWO WEEKS IN CONTEXT, HE STRESSED THAT THE CRISIS OF CONFIDENCE WHICH SPREAD ACROSS WORLD MARKETS MUST BE SEEN AS UNPARALLELLED IN THE LIFETIME OF VIRTUALLY ALL WHO WERE ATTENDING THE SEMINAR.

"THANKFULLY, THE POSITION NOW SEEMS TO BE CONTAINED AND CONFIDENCE IS RETURNING TO MARKETS, BUT A MAJOR LESSON WHICH I HOPE WILL BE LEARNED FROM THIS EXPERIENCE IS THE EXTENT TO WHICH INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL MARKETS ARE INTER-RELATED...

"REMEDIAL MEASURES MUST BE TAKEN IN ALL THE MAJOR CENTRES IF THEY ARE TO PROVE LASTING," HE SAID.

MR NENDICK NOTED THAT HONG KONG HAD ATTRACTED SOME INTERNATIONAL AND LOCAL CRITICISM FOR CLOSING ITS FINANCIAL MARKETS BUT, EQUALLY, THERE WERE THOSE AT HOME AND ABROAD WHO SUPPORTED THE MOVE.

HE SAID: "THE DECISION TO SUSPEND TRADING WAS TAKEN AGAINST A BACKGROUND OF A VERY SUBSTANTIAL BACKLOG OF SETTLEMENTS IN THE STOCK EXCHANGE FOLLOWING A PERIOD OF UNPRECEDENTED TURNOVER, AND OF THE LIKELIHOOD, IN THE PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES OF HONG KONG, THAT HIGHLY VOLATILE AND DISORDERLY TRADING CONDITIONS WOULD EMERGE IF INVESTORS ACTED PRECIPITATELY.

"A PAUSE FOR WISER COUNSELS TO PREVAIL WAS SEEN AS VALUABLE. I AM GLAD TO SAY THAT, WHEN THE MARKET REOPENED, THE GENERAL PUBLIC DID REACT IN A SENSIBLE AND LEVEL HEADED MANNER, AND THERE WAS NO WHOLESALE ENCASHMENT OF UNIT TRUSTS OR PANIC ATTEMPTS TO REALISE STOCK EXCHANGE INVESTMENTS."

MR NENDICK SAID HE SAW THIS, OF ITSELF, AS A SIGNIFICANT JUSTIFICATION FOR THE SUSPENSION OF TRADING, BUT, WITH HINDSIGHT, THE CLOSING OF THE EXCHANGE ALSO BROUGHT VALUABLE BREATHING SPACE TO ARRIVE AT A SOLUTION TO A DIFFICULTY CENTRING ON THE FINANCIAL FUTURES MARKET, WHICH ONLY EMERGED AFTER TRADING HAD BEEN SUSPENDED.

/AS A

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1987

AS A RESULT OF THE SUBSTANTIAL FALL IN THE PRICE OF THE SHARES COMPRISING THE HANG SENG INDEX, BROKERS TRADING IN THE FUTURES MARKET TN HANG SENG INDEX CONTRACTS WHO HAD ’’LONG” POSITIONS WERE CALLED UPON TO PUT UP VERY LARGE ADDITIONAL SUMS BY WAY OF VARIATION MARGIN.

"IT BECAME CLEAR THAT A NUMBER WOULD HAVE GREAT DIFFICULTY IN MEETING THEIR MARGIN REQUIREMENTS LEADING TO DEFAULT AND SUSPENSION FROM THE FUTURES EXCHANGE, AND THAT, IN TURN, THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION WHICH GUARANTEES TO MEET SUCH DEFICIENCIES MIGHT HAVE INSUFFICIENT RESOURCES TO MAKE UP THE SHORTFALL,” HE SAID.

’’THIS WOULD, IN TURN, HAVE LED TO THE CLOSURE OF THE FINANCIAL FUTURES MARKET AND OBLIGED THE FORCED SETTLEMENT OF ALL CONTRACTS AT AN ARBITRARY PRICE.”

MR NENDICK SAID THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN A CONSEQUENTIAL AND VERY SERIOUS IMPACT ON THE PHYSICAL STOCK MARKET, AS THOSE WHO HAD BEEN ARBITRATING BETWEEN THE PHYSICAL AND FUTURES MARKETS (BEING ’’SHORT” IN THE FUTURES MARKET AND ’’LONG” IN THE STOCK MARKET) WOULD THEN HAVE BEEN OBLIGED TO CLOSE OUT THEIR UNCOVERED "LONG” POSITIONS IN THE PHYSICAL MARKET.

’’THE DAMAGE TO HONG KONG'S REPUTATION AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE WOULD HAVE BEEN IMMEASURABLE AND, BECAUSE THOSE MOST AFFECTED WOULD THEN TAKE THEIR BUSINESS ELSEWHERE, THE EXCHANGE RATE WOULD, I BELIEVE, HAVE COME UNDER SUSTAINED AND HEAVY PRESSURE.”

IT WAS IN THE LIGHT OF THESE CONSIDERATIONS THAT THE SUPPORT FACILITIES WERE PUT IN PLACE.

"IT MAY BE NOTED THAT THOSE WHO HAD MOST TO GAIN BY THE FINANCIAL FUTURES MARKET BEING KEPT IN BEING CONTRIBUTED SIGNIFICANTLY TO THE SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS, AS DID THOSE WHO ARE FIRMLY COMMITTED TO HONG KONG’S CONTINUING WELL-BEING AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE," MR NENDICK SAID. THE SUPPORTIVE STANCE TAKEN BY CHINA, INCLUDING THE IMPORTANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE SECOND SUPPORT FACILITY MADE BY THE BANK OF CHINA, WAS PARTICULARLY APPRECIATED.

MR NENDICK ADDED: "IT MAY BE NOTED, TOO, THAT THE SPECULATORS HAVE NOT BEEN ’RESCUED’. NONE OF THE FUNDS WHICH HAVE BEEN PROVIDED ARE TO BE PUT AT THE DISPOSAL OF THOSE WHO WERE ’LONG' IN THE FUTURES MARKET, AND THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION WILL TAKE WHAT IT CONSIDERS AS APPROPRIATE STEPS AGAINST THOSE WHO FAIL TO MEET THEIR COMMITMENTS."

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2,

1987

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AG OUTLINES PUBLIC INTEREST CONSIDERATIONS

* * * * »

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR MICHAEL THOMAS, SAID TODAY (MONDAY) THAT CONSIDERATIONS OF THE PUBLIC INTEREST PLAY A LARGE PART IN THE PROCESS OF DECIDING WHETHER OR NOT TO BRING A CRIMINAL PROSECUTION IN INDIVIDUAL CASES.

FAR FROM BEING AN EXACT SCIENCE, THE PROCESS ENTAILED THE EXERCISE OF JUDGMENT AND DISCRETION BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, TAKING A WIDE RANGE OF PUBLIC INTEREST CONSIDERATIONS INTO ACCOUNT, HE SAID AT THE THIRD INTERNATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION CONFERENCE.

SPEAKING ON ASPECTS OF THE JUDICIAL PROCESS IN CORRUPTION CASES AS SEEN FROM THE VIEWPOINT OF AN ATTORNEY GENERAL, HE SAID THIS DISCRETION MUST BE EXERCISED IN A JUDICIAL AND NOT A HAPHAZARD MANNER, AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH CERTAIN PRINCIPLES.

HE OUTLINED SOME OF THE PRINCIPLES APPLIED AND DISCUSSED WHAT ALTERNATIVES TO PROSECUTION EXISTED.

MR THOMAS EXPLAINED THAT IT WAS ONE OF HIS FUNCTIONS, AS ATTORNEY GENERAL, TO DECIDE WHETHER OR NOT TO BRING A CRIMINAL PROSECUTION IN INDIVIDUAL CASES.

"THAT IS TO SAY, IT IS FOR ME OR, WHERE I HAVE DELEGATED THE DECISION, ONE OF MY OFFICERS TO DECIDE AT THE END OF A CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION WHETHER ANYONE SHALL BE PROSECUTED AND, IF SO, WHO AND ON WHAT CHARGES.

"BY THE SAME TOKEN I CAN DECIDE THAT A PERSON SHALL NOT BE PROSECUTED, EVEN IF THE EVIDENCE WOULD WARRANT A PROSECUTION. THIS ENABLES ME, FOR EXAMPLE, WHERE APPROPRIATE TO GRANT AN IMMUNITY FROM PROSECUTION TO PERSONS WHO ARE WILLING TO GIVE EVIDENCE IN CORRUPTION CASES," HE SAID.

MR THOMAS SAID THE DECISION WHETHER OR NOT TO PROSECUTE WAS THE FIRST AND MOST VITAL DECISION IN THE PROSECUTION PROCESS.

THERE WERE TWO MAJOR CONSIDERATIONS IN DETERMINING THE INSTITUTION OR CONTINUATION OF CRIMINAL PROCEEDING. FIRST, WAS THE EVIDENCE SUFFICIENT? AND SECONDLY, DID THE PUBLIC INTEREST REQUIRE A PROSECUTION TO BE INITIATED?

MR THOMAS SAID: "CONSIDERATION OF THE SUFFICIENCY OF THE EVIDENCE MAY HAVE TWO STAGES.

"THE FIRST IS THAT IT IS NECESSARY TO CONSIDER WHETHER THE AVAILABLE AND ADMISSIBLE EVIDENCE ESTABLISHES A PRIMA FACIE CASE THAT A CRIMINAL OFFENCE HAS BEEN COMMITTED; THAT IS, ON THE BASIS THAT THE AVAILABLE EVIDENCE IS ACCEPTED WITHOUT RESERVATION BY A JURY IT COULD ACTING REASONABLY, BE SATISFIED OF THE DEFENDANT’S GUILT BEYOND REASONABLE DOUBT. IF THIS TEST IS NOT MET, A PROSECUTION SHOULD NOT BE BEGUN.

/’’EVEN A

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 198?

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"EVEN A PRIMA FACIE CASE, HOWEVER, IS NOT BY ITSELF USUALLY ENOUGH, THERE IS NORMALLY A SECOND STAGE WHICH CONSISTS OF TESTING THE EVIDENCE TO DECIDE WHETHER IT IS SUFFICIENT TO GIVE RISE TO A REALISTIC PROSPECT OF A CONVICTION."

CONSIDERATIONS OF THE ADEQUACY OF AVAILABLE EVIDENCE ALSO TOOK INTO ACCOUNT THE PROSPECTS OF SUCCESS.

MR THOMAS EXPLAINED THAT AN ASSESSMENT OF THE PROSPECTS FOR CONVICTION OR ACQUITTAL REQUIRED AN OBJECTIVE EVALUATION OF HOW STRONG THE CASE WAS LIKELY TO BE WHEN PRESENTED IN COURT. SEVERAL FACTORS WERE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT.

ONE WAS THE AVAILABILITY AND CREDIBILITY OF WITNESSES AND THE IMPRESSION THEY WERE LIKELY TO MAKE ON A JURY; ANOTHER WAS THE ADMISSIBILITY OF ANY ALLEGED CONFESSION; ANOTHER WAS WHETHER THERE WERE ANY OBVIOUS LINES OF DEFENCE OPEN TO THE ACCUSED, AND SO ON.

THE RANGE OF FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED, HOWEVER, WOULD DEPEND UPON THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF EACH CASE. ASSESSMENT OF THE EVIDENCE MIGHT BE DIFFICULT: OCCASIONALLY, IT MIGHT BE IMPOSSIBLE TO SAY WITH ANY CONFIDENCE THAT EITHER A CONVICTION OR AN ACQUITTAL WAS THE MORE LIKELY RESULT.

IF HAVING EVALUATED THE EVIDENCE THE PROSECUTOR WAS SATISFIED THAT THERE WAS A REASONABLE PROSPECT OF CONVICTION, HE MUST THEN CONSIDER THE MATTER FROM THE POINT OF VIEW OF THE PUBLIC INTEREST.

MR THOMAS SAID: "AS IT WAS PUT BY A FAMOUS ATTORNEY GENERAL OF ENGLAND AND WALES SOME 40 YEARS AGO, HOWEVER GOOD THE EVIDENCE A PROSECUTION SHOULD NOT BE INITIATED UNLESS THE PROSECUTOR IS SATISFIED ’THAT THE OFFENCE OR THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF ITS COMMISSION IS OR ARE OF SUCH A CHARACTER THAT A PROSECUTION IN RESPECT THEREOF IS REQUIRED IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST. THAT IS STILL THE DOMINANT CONSIDERATION’.

"HE CONTINUED BY SAYING THAT REGARD MUST BE HAD ’TO THE EFFECT WHICH THE PROSECUTION, SUCCESSFUL OR UNSUCCESSFUL AS THE CASE MAY BE, WOULD HAVE UPON PUBLIC MORALE AND ORDER, AND ANY OTHER CONSIDERATIONS AFFECTING PUBLIC POLICY’."

MR THOMAS SAID THE POSITION WAS THE SAME IN HONG KONG. IN A MAJORITY OF CASES THE RESULT OF THIS PROCESS WOULD BE A DECISION THAT, IF THE AVAILABLE EVIDENCE WAS UP TO THE STANDARD DESCRIBED, IT WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST THAT A PROSECUTION SHOULD FOLLOW; AND THE CLEARER THE EVIDENCE, THE MORE LIKELY IT WAS THAT THAT WOULD BE THE DECISION.

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SAID THERE WERE, HOWEVER, CASES WHERE THE CIRCUMSTANCES SUGGESTED SOME COURSE'OTHER THAN PROSECUTION MIGHT BE PREFERABLE.

/PERHAPS THE

PERHAPS THE MOST OBVIOUS EXAMPLE WAS THE TRIVIAL OR "TECHNICAL" NATURE OF THE PARTICULAR OFFENCE - THE COURTS WOULD SOON HOPELESSLY CLOGGED AND SUFFER INTERMINABLE DELAYS IF EVERY SUSPECTED CRIMINAL OFFENCE WERE AUTOMATICALLY THE SUBJECT OF PROSECUTION. IN OTHER WORDS, WHAT LAWYERS CALLED THE DE MINIMIS PRINCIPLE WAS APPLIED.

APART FROM THE CHARACTER OF THE OFFENCE, THERE WERE NUMEROUS OTHER FACTORS THAT MIGHT BE RELEVANT IN CONSIDERING WHETHER THE PUBLIC INTEREST REQUIRED A PROSECUTION.

"I HAVE REFERRED TO THE STRENGTH OF THE EVIDENCE AND DEGREE OF LIKELIHOOD OF A CONVICTION. THIS IS PARTICULARLY RELEVANT IF A PROSECUTION WOULD BE LONG AND EXPENSIVE; IN SUCH A CASE PROSECUTOR MAY WELL DECIDE THAT THE BALANCE OF PUBLIC INTEREST DOES NOT FAVOUR A PROSECUTION UNLESS THERE IS SOMETHING MORE THAN A ’REASONABLE’ PROSPECT OF SUCCESS," HE SAID.

EXAMPLES OF OTHER FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED WERE THE PRESENCE OF MITIGATING OR AGGRAVATING CIRCUMSTANCES; THE YOUTH, AGE, PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH OF THE ALLEGED OFFENDER OR A WITNESS; WHETHER THE ALLEGED OFFENDER HAD A CRIMINAL RECORD OR WHETHER, ON THE OTHER HAND, A PROSECUTION WOULD DESTROY HIS REPUTATION; THE EFFECT ON PUBLIC ORDER AND MORALE; THE DEGREE OF CULPABILITY OF THE ALLEGED OFFENDER AND THE AMOUNT OF HARM WHICH A PROSECUTION MIGHT DO TO HIM; THE LIKELY SENTENCE UPON CONVICTION; THE LENGTH OF TIME SINCE THE OFFENCE WAS COMMITTED; THE ATTITUDE OF THE COMPLAINANT (IF ANY), THE AVAILABILITY AND EFFICACY OF ALTERNATIVES TO PROSECUTION AND SO ON.

"ANY ATTEMPT AT AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF RELEVANT FACTORS WOULD INEVITABLY BE INCOMPLETE.

"THE VITAL ISSUE IN CONSIDERING THE PUBLIC INTEREST IS AN APPRECIATION THAT THE PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES OF A CASE MUST BE ASSESSED ON ITS INDIVIDUAL MERITS.

"THE APPLICABILITY AND WEIGHT TO BE GIVEN TO RELEVANT PUBLIC INTEREST FACTORS VARIES FROM CASE TO CASE AND THE PROCESS OF WEIGHING THEM UP GIVES THE PROSECUTOR A WIDE DISCRETION NOT TO PROSECUTE EVEN WHERE THE EVIDENCE IS SUCH AS TO MAKE A CONVICTION LIKELY," MR THOMAS SAID.

TURNING TQ THE SELECTION OF CHARGES, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SAID THAT IN MANY CASES THE SAME CONDUCT CONSTITUTED AN OFFENCE AGAINST SEVERAL DIFFERENT LAWS. THE CHARGE OR CHARGES MUST BE CHOSEN TO REFLECT THE NATURE AND EXTENT OF THE CRIMINAL CONDUCT DISCLOSED BY THE AVAILABLE ADMISSIBLE EVIDENCE AND PROVIDE THE COURT, IN THE EVENT OF CONVICTION, WITH AN APPROPRIATE BASIS FOR SENTENCE.

/IN GENERAL,

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1987

IN GENERAL, APPROPRIATE CHARGES WOULD NORMALLY BE THE MOST SERIOUS REVEALED BY THE EVIDENCE. PROVIDED, HOWEVER, THAT THE OFFENCE CHARGED WAS NOT INAPPROPRIATE TO THE NATURE OF THE FACTS ALLEGED AND THE COURT’S SENTENCING POWERS WERE ADEQUATE, CONSIDERATION MIGHT BE GIVEN TO A LESSER CHARGE IN THE LIGHT OF SUCH FACTORS AS SPEED OF TRIAL, MODE OF TRIAL, SUFFICIENCY OF PROOF AND PROBABLE LINES OF DEFENCE.

HE EXPLAINED THAT AN ELEMENT OF BARGAINING WITH THE ACCUSED MIGHT ENTER INTO THIS PROCESS, SINCE HF. MIGHT BE WILLING TO PLEAD GUILTY TO LESSER CHARGES. BUT THAT WAS STRICTLY A MATTER BETWEEN THE PROSECUTION AND THE ACCUSED. THE COURTS REGARDED PLEA OR CHARGE-BARGAINING AS A QUESTIONABLE PRACTICE AND WOULD PLAY NO PART IN IT.

"PARTICULAR CARE HAS TO BE EXERCISED WHEN CONSPIRACY CHARGES ARE UNDER CONSIDERATION. WHENEVER POSSIBLE, SUBSTANTIVE CHARGES SHOULD BE LAID. IT IS NOTORIOUS THAT CONSPIRACY TRIALS CAN BE COMPLEX AND LENGTHY.

"THERE ARE, HOWEVER, OCCASIONS WHEN A CONSPIRACY CHARGE IS THE ONLY ONE WHICH IS APPROPRIATE ON THE AVAILABLE EVIDENCE AND ADEQUATELY REFLECTS THE CRIMINALITY OF THE CASE," MR THOMAS SAID.

TURNING TO THE SUBJECT OF CAUTIONING, MR THOMAS SAID THE "ALL OR NOTHING" APPROACH - TO PROSECUTE OR TO TAKE NO FURTHER ACTION -WAS NOT ALWAYS SUFFICIENTLY FLEXIBLE TO ACCOMMODATE THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF ALL OFFENCES AND AtL OFFENDERS, PARTICULARLY IN THE FIELD OF CORRUPTION.

"ACCORDINGLY, IN NOVEMBER OF LAST YEAR, I APPROVED A FORMAL CAUTIONING SCHEME FOR OFFENCES INVESTIGATED BY THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION," HE SAID.

THE INITIATIVE FOR THIS SCHEME OWED A GREAT DEAL TO THE ICAC ITSELF.

THE GUIDELINES FOR THE ICAC CAUTIONING SCHEME REAFFIRMED THE PRINCIPLE THAT IN GENERAL, PROSECUTION SHOULD TAKE PLACE WHERE, FIRST, THERE WAS SUFFICIENT EVIDENCE TO SUPPORT A PROSECUTION AND, SECONDLY, THE PUBLIC INTEREST REQUIRED IT.

THERE WERE, HOWEVER, CASES WHICH WERE NOT MERELY OF A MINOR OR TRIVIAL NATURE BUT WHERE THE PUBLIC INTEREST DID NOT REQUIRE THAT A PROSECUTION SHOULD FOLLOW AS A MATTER OF COURSE. THESE WERE CASES WHERE, BY VIRTUE OF EITHER AN OFFENDER’S CIRCUMSTANCES OR THE NATURE OF THE OFFENCE, OR BOTH, THE PUBLIC INTEREST COULD BE ADEQUATELY SERVED BY A FORMAL CAUTION BEING GIVEN TO THE SUSPECT.

/"OFFICERS OF

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2t 198?

’’OFFICERS OF ICAC MAY MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS THAT A PARTICULAR CASE IS SUITABLE FOR A CAUTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE APPROVED GUIDELINES - BUT THE FINAL DECISION WHETHER TO PROSECUTE OR CAUTION RESTS WITH ME OR SENIOR OFFICERS OF MY CHAMBERS ON MY BEHALF,” MR THOMAS SAID.

ONCE A DECISION HAD BEEN MADE THAT A PARTICULAR CASE WAS SUITABLE TO BE DEALT WITH UNDER THE SCHEME, THE ICAC WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR ADMINISTERING THE CAUTION.

MR THOMAS WENT ON: ’’THE HOPE IS, OF COURSE, THAT THE FORMAL NATURE AND RECORDING OF ICAC CAUTIONS WILL DISSUADE OFFENDERS FROM COMMITTING FURTHER OFFENCES. IT IS TOO EARLY TO ASSESS WHETHER THIS OBJECTIVE WILL BE MET.

"HOWEVER THE RATIONALE OF THE SCHEME IS TO PROVIDE A HUMANE, CONSIDERATE AND EQUITABLE METHOD OF DEALING WITH OFFENDERS WHERE THE PUBLIC INTEREST DOES NOT REQUIRE THAT THEY FACE THE TRAUMA OF A COURT APPEARANCE AND THE RECORDING OF A CRIMINAL CONVICTION."

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GOVERNOR VISITS VOLUNTEERS AT BORDER ♦ * » » »

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, TODAY (MONDAY) VISITED THE ANNUAL BORDER CAMP OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT (THE VOLUNTEERS) AND WAS IMPRESSED BY WHAT HE SAW — MORE THAN 500 "PART-TIME" SOLDIERS CARRYING OUT THEIR DUTIES IN PREVENTING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM CROSSING THE BORDER.

THE GOVERNOR FIRST FLEW BY HELICOPTER TO PAK HOK CHAU, WHERE HE WAS MET BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER OF THE REGIMENT, LT. COL. JEREMY HUTCHINS, AND BRIEFED ON THE REGIMENT’S DEPLOYMENT FOR THE BORDER CAMP, AND THE REGIMENT’S DUTIES AND OPERATIONS.

SIR DAVID WAS SHOWN A NIGHT-VISION DEVICE USED IN THE DETECTION OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.

SIR DAVID THEN VISITED THE OBSERVATION POSTS AT SANDY SPUR, PAK FU SHAN AND PAK KONG AU.

BEFORE DEPARTING, THE GOVERNOR VISITED THE REGIMENT’S D SQUADRON AT SHA TAU KOK WHERE HIGH-SPEED INFLATABLE CRAFT WERE DEPLOYED IN BORDER PATROL DUTIES.

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/9.......

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1987

MONETARY STATISTICS FOR SEPTEMBER RELEASED

*****

DEPOSITS IN HONG KONG DOLLAR GREW FASTER IN SEPTEMBER AS DOMESTIC CREDIT GROWTH ACCELERATED DURING THE MONTH, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS PUBLISHED TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE MONETARY AFFAIRS BRANCH. FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS, HOWEVER, FELL SLIGHTLY.

HONG KONG DOLLAR MONEY SUPPLY ON ALL DEFINITIONS GREW FASTER IN SEPTEMBER THAN IN PREVIOUS MONTHS. HONG KONG DOLLAR Ml, THE NARROW DEFINITION OF HONG KONG DOLLAR MONEY SUPPLY, GREW RAPIDLY IN SEPTEMBER, REFLECTING THE HIGH LEVEL OF ACTIVITY IN THE LOCAL STOCK MARKET.

TOTAL LOANS AND ADVANCES EXTENDED BY DEPOSIT-TAKING INSTITUTIONS CONTINUED TO GROW STRONGLY IN SEPTEMBER, ALTHOUGH THE RATE OF GROWTH WAS SLIGHTLY LOWER THAN THOSE IN THE PREVIOUS MONTHS. LOANS FOR USE IN HONG KONG GREW FASTER IN SEPTEMBER THAN IN THE PREVIOUS MONTH. OFFSHORE LOANS ALSO CONTINUED TO INCREASE RAPIDLY, BUT LOANS TO FINANCE HONG KONG’S VISIBLE TRADE FELL SLIGHTLY.

TABLE 1 BEING SENT BY FACSIMILE SETS OUT SUMMARY FIGURES FOR SEPTEMBER 1987 AND COMPARISONS WITH EARLIER MONTHS. TABLE 2 ALSO BEING SENT BY FACSIMILE SETS OUT FIGURES FROM THE QUARTERLY ANALYSIS OF LOANS AND ADVANCES FOR USE IN HONG KONG BY SECTOR.

DEPOSITS

IN SEPTEMBER, HONG KONG DOLLAR DEMAND AND SAVINGS DEPOSITS INCREASED RAPIDLY, BY 14.5 PER CENT AND BY 6.0 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. BUT TIME DEPOSITS DECREASED BY 1.7 PER CENT. AS A RESULT, TOTAL HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS ROSE BY 3.2 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER AFTER INCREASES OF 2.6 PER CENT IN JULY AND 1.8 PER CENT IN AUGUST. OVER THE YEAR (I.E. FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDING SEPTEMBER), TOTAL HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS GREW BY 26.5 PER CENT.

FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS DECREASED BY 0.3 PER CENT SEPTEMBER AFTER AN INCREASE OF 2.5 PER CENT IN JULY AND 1.4 PER CENT IN AUGUST. THESE DEPOSITS GREW BY 3.6 PER CENT OVER THE THREE MONTHS TO SEPTEMBER AND BY 25.8 PER CENT OVER THE YEAR. OF THE TOTAL, DEPOSITS IN U.S. DOLLARS ROSE BY 0.9 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER WHILE DEPOSITS IN OTHER FOREIGN CURRENCIES FELL BY 2.4 PER CENT.

/Foreign currenci

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1987

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FOREIGN CURRENCY SWAP DEPOSITS DECREASED BY 1.9 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER. ADJUSTED TO INCLUDE THESE DEPOSITS, HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS GREW BY 2.6 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER WHILE ADJUSTED FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS FELL BY 0.2 PER CENT.

DEPOSITS (ALL CURRENCIES) WITH BANKS INCREASED BY 1.3 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER WHILE THOSE WITH DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES INCREASED BY 0.9 PER CENT. FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING SEPTEMBER, DEPOSITS WITH BANKS INCREASED BY 5.4 PER CENT WHILE THOSE WITH DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES INCREASED BY 6.1 PER CENT. OVER THE YEAR, DEPOSITS WITH BANKS GREW BY 29.5 PER CENT WHILE THOSE WITH DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES INCREASED BY 0.1 PER CENT.

MONEY SUPPLY

REFLECTING THE RAPID INCREASE IN DEMAND DEPOSITS, HONG KONG DOLLAR Ml ROSE BY 9.1 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER. HONG KONG DOLLAR M2 AND M3 ALSO INCREASED RAPIDLY, BY 3.2 PER CENT AND 3.0 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN SEPTEMBER. OVER THE YEAR THE GROWTH IN HONG KONG DOLLAR Ml, M2 AND M3 WERE 37.9 PER CENT, 30.5 PER CENT AND 26.3 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.

TOTAL MONEY SUPPLY ON ALL DEFINITIONS ALSO INCREASED IN SEPTEMBER. TOTAL Ml GREW BY 6.8 PER CENT TN SEPTEMBER AFTER AN INCREASE OF 1.8 PER CENT IN AUGUST. TOTAL M2 AND TOTAL M3, ON THE OTHER HAND, BOTH INCREASED BY 1.2 PER CENT TN SEPTEMBER COMPARED WITH AN INCREASE OF 1.6 PER CENT IN BOTH OF THEM IN AUGUST. OVER THE YEAR, TOTAL Ml GREW BY 39.2 PER CENT, TOTAL M2 BY 29.3 PER CENT AND TOTAL M3 BY 26.0 PER CENT.

LOANS AND ADVANCES

TOTAL OUTSTANDING LOANS AND ADVANCES EXTENDED BY BANKS AND DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES CONTINUED TO GROW RAPIDLY IN SEPTEMBER, BY 4.0 PER CENT AFTER INCREASES OF 5.8 PER CENT IN JULY AND 4.9 PER CENT IN AUGUST. AS IN THE PREVIOUS FEW MONTHS, A CONSIDERABLE PART OF THIS INCREASE WAS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE FAST GROWTH IN OFFSHORE LOANS. CONSISTENT WITH THIS, LOANS DENOMINATED IN FOREIGN CURRENCIES INCREASED BY 4.7 PER CENT, WHILE THOSE DENOMINATED IN HONG KONG DOLLARS GREW BY 3.2 PER CENT.

LOANS TO FINANCE THE VISIBLE TRADE OF HONG KONG FELL SLIGHTLY IN SEPTEMBER, BY 0.4 PER CENT; OVER THE YEAR THESE LOANS GREW BY PER CENT. OTHER LOANS FOR USE IN HONG KONG GREW FASTER IN SEPTEMBER, BY 3.6 PER CENT FOLLOWING AN INCREASE OF 1.9 PER CENT IN AUGUST. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 29.9 PER CENT. LOANS FOR USE OUTSIDE HONG KONG GREW SLOWER IN SEPTEMBER, BY 0.1 PER CENT, BUT LOANS WHERE THE PLACE OF USE IS UNKNOWN INCREASED BY 29.3 PER CENT.

/QUARTERLY ANALYSIS

MONDAY, NOVFXBER 2, 1987

QUARTERLY ANALYSIS OF LOANS AND ADVANCES FOR USE IN HONG KONG BY SECTOR

IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1987, LOANS AND ADVANCES EXTENDED TO THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR ROSE BY 4.8 PER CENT AFTER INCREASES OF 4.3 PER CENT IN THE FIRST QUARTER AND 2.0 PER CENT IN THE SECOND QUARTER. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 17.9 PER CENT.

LOANS TO THE WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADES INCREASED MORE RAPIDLY THIS QUARTER, BY 10.3 PER CENT FOLLOWING INCREASES OF 0.1 PER CENT IN THE FIRST QUARTER AND 5.7 PER CENT IN THE SECOND QUARTER. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 13.1 PER CENT.

LOANS TO THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SECTOR GREW BY 6.6 PER

CENT IN THE THIRD QUARTER, AFTER FALLING BY 2.7 PER CENT IN THE SECOND QUARTER. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS INCREASED BY 1.5 PER CENT.

LOANS TO INDIVIDUALS FOR THE PURCHASE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY (OTHER THAN FLATS IN THE HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME) CONTINUED TO GROW, BY 5.9 PER CENT AFTER INCREASES OF 9.2 PER CENT AND 10.5 PER CENT IN THE PREVIOUS TWO QUARTERS. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 37.5 PER CENT.

LOANS TO INDIVIDUALS FOR PURPOSES OTHER THAN HOME PURCHASING GREW SLIGHTLY FASTER IN THE THIRD QUARTER. THESE LOANS ROSE BY 10.9 PER CENT AFTER AN INCREASE OF 10.4 PER CENT IN THE SECOND QUARTER.

LOANS TO FINANCIAL CONCERNS ALSO GREW RAPIDLY IN THE THIRD QUARTER, BY 44.6 PER CENT.

NUMBER OF REPORTING INSTITUTIONS

THE NUMBER OF REPORTING LICENSED BANKS AND LICENSED DEPOSIT-TAKING CONPANIES REMAINED UNCHANGED AT 153 AND 35 RESPECTIVELY, WHILE THAT OF REPORTING REGISTERED DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES DECREASED BY 1 TO 238.

/TABLE_1

SEPTEMBER 1987

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2t 1987

12 -

TABLE 1 : MONETARY STATISTICS

Sep 1937

Earlier months (% change to September 1987)

(HK$mn)

Money Supply Aug 1987 Jun 1987 Sep 1986

Hl - HK$ 62,876 57,619 ( 9.1 X) 57,157 ( 10.0 X) 45,603 ( 37.9 X)

Foreign currency 6,581 7,415 (- 11.2 X) 8,437 (- 22.0 X) 4,293 ( 53.3 X)

Total 69,456 65,033 ( 6.8 X) 65,594 ( 5.9 X) 49,896 ( 39.2 X)

M2 - HK$ 285,026 276,144 ( 3.2 X) 266,480 ( 7.0 X) 218,419 ( 30.5 X)

Foreign currency 332,932 334,270 ( -0.4 X) 321,060 ( 3.7 X) 259,447 ( 28.3 X)

Total 617,958 610,415 ( 1.2 X) 587,541 ( 5.2 X) 477,866 ( 29.3 X)

M3 - HK$ 319,732 310,387 ( 3.0 X) 298,050 ( 7.3 X) 253,152 ( 26.3 %)

Foreign currency 362,031 363,351 ( -0.4 X) 349,550 ( 3.6 X) 288,097 ( 25.7 X)

Total 681,763 673,737 ( 1.2 X) 647,601 ( 5.3 X) 541,248 ( 26.0 X)

Notes and coins in circulation 25,343 25,381 ( -0.1 X) 24,185 ( 4.8 X) 21,260 ( 19.2 X)

of which held by public 22,287 22,158 ( 0.6 X) 21,126 ( 5.5 X) 18,451 ( 20.8 X)

Deposits

Demand deposits 47,169 42,875 ( 10.0 X) 44,468 ( 6.1 X) 31,445. ( 50.0 X)

Savings deposits 148,736 142,313 ( 4.5 X) 141,408 ( 5.2 X) 113,219 ( 31.4 X)

Time deposits with banks 390,275 393,612 ( -0.8 X) 370,350 ( 5.4 %) 307,873 ( 26.8 X)

Time deposits with dtcs 59,577 59,029 ( 0.9 X) 56,139 ( 6.1 X) 59,498 ( 0.1 X)

HK$ deposits 289,980 280,927 ( 3.2 X) 268,996 ( 7.8 X) 229,292 ( 26.5 X)

US$ deposits 224,197 222,099 ( 0.9 X) 213,562 ( 5.0 X) 193,509 ( 15.9 X)

Other foreign currency deposits 131,579 134,804 ( -2.4 X) 129,807 ( 1.4 X) 89,235 ( 47.5 X)

All deposits 645,756 637,830 ( 1.2 X) 612,364 ( 5.5 X) 512,036 ( 26.1 X)

Foreign currency swap deposits 34,879 35,546 ( -1.9 X) 33,058 ( 5.5 X) 30,375 ( 14.8 X)

ioans and advances

To finance H.K.’s visible trade 42,429 42,584 ( -0.4 X) 42,447 ( 0.0 X) 34,400 ( 23.3 X)

To finance merchandising trade 7,908 5,564 ( 42.1 X) 5,497 ( 43.9 X) 6,857 ( 15.3 X)

not touching H.K.

Other loans for use in H.K. 340,534 328,855 ( 3.6 X) 310,044 ( 9.8 %) 262,058 ( 29.9 X)

Other loans for use outside H.K. 248,596 248,258 ( 0.1 X) 207,446 ( 19.8 %) 163,608 ( 51.9 X)

Other loans where the place of 56,372 43,588 ( 29.3 X) 37,076 ( 52.0 X) 29,192 ( 93.1 X)

use is not known

Loans in HK$ 308,684 299,173 ( 3.2 X) 286,934 ( 7.6 X) 239,165 ( 29.1 X)

Loans in foreign currencies 387,156 369,677 ( 4.7 X) 315,576 ( 22.7 X) 256,949 ( 50.7 X)

Total loans and advances 695,839 668,849 ( 4.0 X) 602,510 ( 15.5 X) 496,114 ( 40.3 X)

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 198?

TABLE 2 : QUARTERLY ANALYSIS OF LOANS FOR USE IN HONG KONG BY SECTOR - SEPTEMBER 1987

(HK$mn)

Sep 1987

Earlier quarters (% change to September 1987)

Jun 1987 Kar 1987 Sep 1986

Manufacturing 28,034 26,762 ( 4.8 X) O ro r-> -4 ( 6.9 X) • 23,773 ( 17.9

Transport and transport 19,110 18,208 ( 5.0 %) 18,583 ( 2.8 X) 19,428 ( -1.6

equipment

Building, construction property development and 38,185 35,822 ( 6.6 %) 36,619 ( 3.7 X) 37,635 ( 1.5

Wholesale and retail trade 39,270 35,593 ( 10.3 X) 33,688 ( 16.6 %) 34,708 ( 13.1

Financial concerns* 35,610 24,621 ( 44.6 % ) 23,975 ( 48.5 X) 22,424 J 58.8

Individuals:

to purchase flats in Ownership Scheme and Sector Participation the Home Private Scheme 7,335 7,260 ( 1.0 %) 6.435 ( 14.0 X) 6,309 ( 16.3

to purchase other residential 54,782 51,744 ( 5.9 %) 46,848 ( 16.9 X) 39,835 ( 37.5

property

other purposes 42,599 38,408 ( 10.9 X) 34,791 ( 22.4 X) 26,194 ( 62.6

Others 75,609 71,626 ( 5.6 %) 65,786 ( 14.9 X) 51,752 ( 46.1

Total 340,534 310,044 ( 9.8 %) 293,151 ( 16.2 X) 262,058 ( 29.9

* This excludes funds advanced to banks and deposit-taking companies

- - 0

/14

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2,

1987

SWAC DISCUSSES SOCIAL SECURITY IMPROVEMENT PROPOSALS

*****

THE SOCIAL WELFARE ADVISORY COMMITTEE (SWAC) DISCUSSED THE PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEMES, ANNOUNCED BY THE GOVERNOR IN HIS POLICY SPEECH, AT ITS MEETING TODAY (MONDAY).

A GREAT MAJORITY OF THE MEMBERS FELT THAT THOSE AGED 70 APPLYING FOR OLD AGE ALLOWANCE SHOULD NOT BE REQUIRED TO UNDERGO INCOME DECLARATION AS THIS WAS CONTRARY TO THE CHINESE TRADITION OF "RESPECT FOR THE AGED".

ON THE EXTENSION OF OLD AGE ALLOWANCE DOWNWARDS TO THOSE AGED 65, MEMBERS ACCEPTED THAT THIS WAS A WELCOME PROPOSAL BUT THEIR VIEWS WERE DIVIDED ON WHETHER THOSE AGED 65 TO 69 SHOULD BE SUBJECT TO THE INCOME DECLARATION REQUIREMENT.

THEY WERE APPREHENSIVE THAT EXTENSION DOWNWARDS WITHOUT THE INCOME DECLARATION REQUIREMENT WOULD BE TOO GREAT A BURDEN ON THE PUBLIC PURSE.

THEY ALSO FELT THAT THERE WAS A MORE URGENT NEED FOR IMPROVEMENTS IN OTHER AREAS, SUCH AS THE RATES OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE THAN INTRODUCING THIS DOWNWARD EXTENSION.

ON THE OTHER HAND, MEMEBRS SUPPORTED THE PROPOSAL THAT OLD AGE ALLOWANCE SHOULD BE INCREASED BY 10 PER CENT FROM $255 TO $280 PER MONTH.

THEY ALSO ENDORSED THE PROPOSAL THAT THERE SHOULD BE TWO LEVELS OF PAYMENT, ONE FOR THOSE AGED 65 TO 69 AND ONE FOR THOSE AGED 70 AND ABOVE.

THE VIEWS OF THE SWAC WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE SECRETARY HEALTH AND WELFARE FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE GOVERNMENT.

FOR

-----0-----

BOARD TO DISCUSS NGAU CHI WAN VILLAGE LAYOUT PLAN

*****

WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS WILL MEET TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO DISCUSS LAND USE PROPOSALS OF THE DRAFT NGAU CHI WAN VILLAGE LAYOUT PLAN.

VIEWS OF LOCAL RESIDENTS WILL BE REFLECTED AT THE MEETING AS A CONSULTATION EXERCISE HAD BEEN CARRIED OUT BY THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE AND TWO DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS OF THE NGAU TSUEN AREA.

/THE NGAU

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1987

- 15 -

THE NGAU CHI WAN VILLAGE IS SITUATED AT THE NORTH OF THE LUNG CHEUNG ROAD. ITS SOUTHERN SECTION WAS COMPREHENSIVELY REDEVELOPED IN CONNECTION WITH THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CHOI HUNG MTR STATION WHILE THE NORTHERN VILLAGE REMAINED IN A STATE OF AN URBAN SLUM.

AT THE MEETING, MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS A PROPOSAL TO DEVELOP A TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA SITE AT MA CHAI HANG.

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT, MR MOK YIU-KWONG, WILL PRESENT A PAPER AND BRIEF MEMBERS ON THE SITUATION OF TEMPORARY HOUSING SUPPLY IN URBAN KOWLOON AND IN THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT IN PARTICULAR.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO BE INFORMED ON THE LATEST SITUATION REGARDING DANGEROUS STRUCTURES IN CHUK YUEN UNITED VILLAGE AND THE PROGRESS REPORT ON THE DIAMOND HILL DEVELOPMENT.

REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR T.H. CHAU, WILL ALSO ATTEND THE MEETING.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD MEETING TO BE HELD AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (TUESDAY) AT THE FUNG MING HALL OF THE WONG TAI SIN TEMPLE.

-------o----------

FESTIVAL PROMOTES PARTICIPATION, UNDERSTANDING *****

NOW IN ITS 10TH YEAR, THE BIANNUAL TUEN MUN FESTIVAL CARRIED AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE WHICH MATCHED AN OLD CHINESE SAYING, "IT TAKES 10 YEARS TO GROW TREES BUT A HUNDRED TO REAR PEOPLE," THE CHAIRMAN OF THE FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR KINGSLEY SIT, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

ANNOUNCING DETAILS OF THE 1987 TUEN MUN FESTIVAL, MR SIT SAID AS A DEVELOPING NEW TOWN TUEN MUN HAD EVOLVED FROM A MARKET CENTRE OF 30,000 PEOPLE TO AN URBAN CENTRE OF MORE THAN 300,000 WITH ADEQUATE PROVISION OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES FOR THE BURGEONING POPULATION.

HE BELIEVED THAT ANOTHER DECADE WOULD FURTHER STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND CIVIC SPIRIT SO THAT THE NEXT GENERATION WOULD BE ABLE TO LIVE IN A MORE WELL-EQUIPPED SOCIETY CHARACTERISED BY MUTUAL ASSISTANCE AND PROTECTION.

/DURING THE

MONDAY, N0VD4BER 2, 198?

DURING THE FESTIVAL FROM NOVEMBER 9 TO DECEMBER 6, THERE WILL BE 47 LARGE, MEDIUM AND SMALL-SCALE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES.

THESE INCLUDE AN OPENING CEREMONY VARIETY SHOW, EXHIBITION, POP CONCERT, DRAMA COMPETITION, INTERNATIONAL SPORTS CONTEST, BEACH CARNIVAL, FILM SHOW AND A GYMNASTIC PERFORMANCE.

THE FESTIVAL, PRESENTED BY THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, IS SPONSORED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD AND REGIONAL COUNCIL. THE ESTIMATED COST IS $700,000.

MR SIT SAID HE HOPED THAT THROUGH THESE ACTIVITIES MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING COULD BE FOSTERED AMONG LOCAL PEOPLE, ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT BODIES.

"ON THE CHARITABLE ASPECT, THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE ALSO PLANS TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE COMMUNITY CHEST AS PART OF THE FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES TO MAKE IT MORE MEANINGFUL," HE ADDED.

-------0---------

SPORTIVE FORTNIGHT FOR KWUN TONG RESIDENTS

*****

PEOPLE OF ALL AGES AND FROM DIFFERENT SECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY IN KWUN TONG WILL BE ABLE TO ENJOY A WIDE VARIETY OF SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES DURING THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL '87.

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWUNO TONG DISTRICT BOARD, THE DISTRICT OFFICE, URBAN COUNCIL AND THE KWUN TONG SPORTS PROMOTION ASSOCIATION, THE FESTIVAL WILL BE HELD BETWEEN NOVEMBER 8 AND 22.

SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE THIS (MONDAY) AFTERNOON, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SPORTS FESTIVAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, MR RONNIE WONG, SAID THE FESTIVAL WAS AIMED AT PROMOTING A SPORTING INTEREST AMONG RESIDENTS AS WELL AS TO INSTALL A SENSE OF DISTRICT BELONGING.

MR WONG SAID FESTIVAL PROGRAMMES HAD BEEN DESIGNED TO CATER FOR DIFFERENT INTERESTS AND NEEDS.

"THERE WILL BE A TELE-MATCH DAY FOR WORKERS, A FUN DAY FOR THE DISABLED, A GAMES DAY FOR THE ELDERLY WHICH WILL INCLUDE A TAI-CHI DEMONSTRATION AND A MINI OLYMPICS FOR CHILDREN,” HE SAID.

/"YOUNG SPORTS

MONDAY, Novae-JB 2,

17 -

’’YOUNG SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS WILL CERTAINLY ENJOY POPULAR EVENTS SUCH AS AN ATHLETIC MEET, SPORTS CAMP, BALL GAMES AND DEMONSTRATIONS, ROUND-THE-DISTRICT RACE, DISCO NITE AT SEA, ROLLER SKATING AND A TRAMPOLINING FUN DAY,” HE ADDED.

THE SPORTS FESTIVAL WILL BE OPENED ON NOVEMBER 8 AT THE NEWLY-COMPLETED KOWLOON BAY RECREATION GROUND, WITH THE CEREMONY FEATURING LION AND DRAGON DANCES, BRASS BAND PERFORMANCE AND HOISTING OF A FLAG.

”TO ADD COLOUR TO THE OPENING, AN EQUESTRIAN PERFORMANCE WILL ALSO BE STAGED, INTRODUCING A NEW PERSPECTIVE TO DISTRICT SPORTS ACTIVITIES,” MR WONG SAID.

TO MARK THE CLOSING ON NOVEMBER 22, HE SAID A CELEBRITY BASKETBALL MATCH AND A GO-KART RACE WOULD BE STAGED.

ALSO PRESENT AT TODAY'S PRESS CONFERENCE WERE THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDDY CHAN; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM HANG-FAI J PRESIDENT OF THE SPORTS FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR YU SUN-SAY AND CHAIRMEN OF ITS SUB-COMMITTEES AS WELL AS THE DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS OFFICER OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR CHOW SHIU-LUN.

MR CHAN SAID THE SPORTS FESTIVAL WAS THE RESULT OF CONCERTED EFFORTS BY MEMBERS OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE.

HE HOPED THAT KWUN TONO RESIDENTS, THROUGH PARTICIPATION IN THE EVENTS, WOULD CULTIVATE A GREATER SENSE OF BELONGING AND BE ABLE TO DO MORE TOWARDS BUILDING THE COMMUNITY.

THE SPORTS FESTIVAL HAS A BUDGET OF $500,000, OF WHICH $300,000 COMES FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD, $30,000 FROM THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE BALANCE FROM LOCAL PERSONALITIES.

-----0------

/18

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1987

- 18 -

SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE HANDLES 4,894 ENQUIRIES A MONTH *****

THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE’S ENQUIRY CENTRE HANDLES AN AVERAGE OF 4,894 ENQUIRIES AND 1,420 STATUTORY DECLARATIONS A MONTH, PROVIDING AN ESSENTIAL SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY IN SHA TIN, REGIONAL SECRETARY (NEW TERRITORIES), DR JAMES HAYES, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE MA ON SHAN SUB-OFFICE IN HENG ON ESTATE, DR HAYES SAID ENQUIRY SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICE WERE ESSENTIAL TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A COMMUNITY SO THAT RESIDENTS WOULD HAVE A BETTER SENSE OF BELONGING TO AND KNOWLEDGE OF THEIR COMMUNITY.

HE NOTED THAT HENG ON ESTATE, WHICH AT PRESENT ACCOMMODATED MORE THAN 20,000 PEOPLE, WAS THE LATEST PUBLIC HOUSING SCHEME ON STREAM IN MA ON SHAN.

"THE POPULATION IN MA ON SHAN WILL GROW TO ABOUT 200,000 BY THE MID-1990’S AND THE AREA WILL BECOME THE NINTH CONSTITUENCY OF SHA TIN IN THE DISTRICT BOARD ELECTION NEXT MARCH,” HE SAID.

"THE SUB-OFFICE’S COMMUNITY CENTRE AND ENQUIRY CENTRE AT HENG ON ESTATE WILL GREATLY FACILITATE RESIDENTS IN MA ON SHAN," HE ADDED.

DR HAYES NOTED THAT VARIOUS VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS WOULD MOVE INTO THE COMMUNITY CENTRE TO PROVIDE SERVICES FOR RESIDENTS.

"I HOPE LOCAL ORGANISATIONS WILL MAKE FULL USE OF THE COMMUNITY HALL IN THE CENTRE, WHICH IS OPEN TO BOOKING BY THE PUBLIC," HE ADDED.

ALSO ATTENDING TODAY’S OPENING CEREMONY WERE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR VICTOR YUNG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR NG CHAN-LAM AND DB MEMBERS AND STAFF OF THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE.

-----0----------

EYE CARE CAMPAIGN ORGANISED FOR ELDERLY

* * * *

A THREE-WEEK EYE CARE COMPAIGN FOR THE ELDERLY WILL BE HELD FROM NOVEMBER 7 TO 27 IN WAN CHAI AND EASTERN DISTRICTS.

THE CAMPAIGN IS CO-ORGANISED BY THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS, WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD AND EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE HONG KONG OPTOMETRIC ASSOCIATION.

/THE CAMPAIGN

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2t 1987

- 19 -

U M

THE CAMPAIGN AIMS AT DISSEMINATING EYE-CARE KNOWLEDGE TO LOCAL RESIDENTS AND ALSO AT PROVIDING EYE-CARE SERVICES TO RESIDENTS IN WAN CHAI AND EASTERN DISTRICTS WHO ARE AGED OVER 60.

A PRESS CONFERENCE WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO ANNOUNCE DETAILS OF THE CAMPAIGN.

THE JOINT CHAIRMEN OF THE CAMPAIGN’S ORGANISING COMMITTEES, MRS ANNA TANG AND MR TO BOON-MAN, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS, MRS THERESA LAU PO WING-KAM, WILL SPEAK AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE PRESS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) AT 12 NOON AT CITYPLAZA HARBOUR RESTAURANT, CTTYPLAZA PHASE II, TAIKOO SHING.

A LUNCH RECEPTION WILL BE HELD AFTER THE PRESS CONFERENCE.

------0--------

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS

* t ♦ ♦

A NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS FOR DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS TO ORGANISE VARIOUS ACTIVITIES IN WAN CHAI WILL BE TABLED AT A MEETING OF THE DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE TOMORROW (TUESDAY).

THESE ACTIVITIES INCLUDE THE CARE FOR THE OLD CAMPAIGN, CHINESE FOLK DANCE VARIETY SHOW, COLOURING COMPETITION-CARNIVAL FOR CHILDREN, PRINTING OF PAMPHLETS ON RELIGIOUS CULTS AND A SEMINAR ON ’’DEMOCRATIC EDUCATION IN THE FAMILY".

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE MEETING TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) AT 4 PM IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICE, 8TH FLOOR, TUNG WAH MANSION, 201 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI.

-------0---------

/2O........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1987

- 20 - U

MEETING TO DISCUSS YOUTH SERVICES SURVEY

* » * *

THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS THE FINDINGS OF A SURVEY ON THE NEEDS OF YOUTH SERVICES AT A MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).

THE SURVEY, SPONSORED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD, WAS AIMED AT FINDING OUT THE PATTERN OF LEISURE ACTIVITIES OF MONG KOK YOUTHS AGED BETWEEN 15 AND 24, AS WELL AS THEIR NEEDS FOR SOCIAL SERVICES.

THE FINDINGS WILL BE USED AS REFERENCE BY LOCAL AND WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS FOR PROMOTING YOUTH PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO BE BRIEFED ON REHABILITATION SERVICES FOR DISABLED PEOPLE IN HONG KONG. REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE JOINT COUNCIL FOR THE PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY DISABLED WILL PRESENT A PAPER AT THE MEETING.

L't

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE MEETING TO BE HELD AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (TUESDAY) AT THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF MONG KOK DISTRICT OFFICE,' 157 PRINCE EDWARD ROAD, FIRST FLOOR, KOWLOON.

)

------o--------

NEW BORDER CONTROL FACILITIES AT LOK MA CHAU

*****

THE PROCESSING OF VISITORS AND CARGOES BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA WILL BE SPEEDED UP BY THE END OF NEXT YEAR WITH THE COMPLETION OF NEW BORDER CONTROL FACILITIES IN LOK MA CHAU.

THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAS AWARDED A $58.9 MILLION CONTRACT FOR THE PROJECT AND WORK HAS ALREADY STARTED.

THE FACILITIES TO BE PROVIDED INCLUDE A MAIN TERMINAL BUILDING, TWO CARGO EXAMINATION BUILDINGS, AN ANIMAL INSPECTION STATION, A WEIGH-BRIDGE, A HELICOPTER PAD AND A POLICE POST. A

THE TERMINAL BUILDING WILL HAVE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF ABOUT 4,000 SQUARE METRES TO ACCOMMODATE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT, THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT AND THE POLICE.

/IN THE.............

Ill

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1987

21 -

IN THE TWO SEPARATE INCOMING AND OUTGOING CARGO EXAMINATION BUILDINGS, THERE WILL BE 18 COUNTERS FOR THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT AND 14 FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT.

THE ANIMAL INSPECTION STATION WILL BE STAFFED BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE LOK MA CHAU CROSSING WILL BE ENHANCED WITH THE COMPLETION OF A NEW BRIDGE ACROSS THE SHENZHEN RIVER AND A NEW TRUNK ROAD JOINING THE NEW TERRITORIES CIRCULAR ROAD, BOTH EXPECTED TO OPEN IN LATE 1988.

ROAD WORKS IN TUEN MUN PROPOSED

* * * *

THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT IS PROPOSING TO CARRY OUT A NUMBER OF ROAD WORKS NEAR WU KING TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA IN TUEN MUN TO SERVE THE FUTURE RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS IN THE AREA.

THESE INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW ROAD, MODIFICATION AND EXTENSION OF TWO EXISTING ROADS, AND FORMATION OF A LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT RESERVE.

THREE EXISTING FOOTBRIDGES NEARBY WILL ALSO BE EXTENDED.

WORK ON THE PROJECT IS SCHEDULED TO START IN APRIL NEXT YEAR AND TAKE ABOUT 18 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.

DETAILS OF THE PROPOSAL HAVE BEEN PUBLISHED IN THE LATEST GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.

ANY PERSON OBJECTING TO THE PROPOSAL SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT BEFORE DECEMBER 29.

-----o------

/22

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1987

- 22 -

TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR FLYOVER RECONSTRUCTION

*****

TO FACILITATE THE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD FLYOVER, THE FOLLOWING TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN HO MAN TIN ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 4) AND FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 6) FROM 10 PM TO 6 AM THE NEXT MORNING:

» PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN ARGYLE STREET AND PERTH STREET WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC.

* PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD NORTHBOUND BETWEEN PUI CHING ROAD AND ARGYLE STREET WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC EXCEPT FOR LOCAL ACCESS.

» DUNBAR ROAD BETWEEN PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD AND GULLANE ROAD WILL BE CONVERTED TO A TWO-WAY CUL-DE-SAC WITH ACCESS ONLY FROM GULLANE ROAD.

* ALL VEHICLES WILL BE ALLOWED TO TURN RIGHT FROM WATERLOO ROAD SOUTHBOUND ON TO ARGYLE STREET WES1BOUND.

* VEHICLES ON WATERLOO ROAD SOUTHBOUND GROUND-LEVEL

CARRIAGEWAY AND ARGYLE STREET WESTBOUND HEADING FOR

PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD SOUTHBOUND WILL BE DIVERTED VIA WATERLOO ROAD, PUI CHING ROAD AND SHEUNG HING STREET TO REJOIN PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD. THOSE HEADING FOR DUNBAR ROAD AND PERTH STREET WILL HAVE TO TRaVEL VIA WATERLOO ROAD, PUI CHING ROAD, SHEUNG SHING STREET AND SHEK KU STREET.

* VEHICLES ON PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD NORTHBOUND HEADING FOR WATERLOO ROAD WILL HAVE TO USE THE SLIP ROAD TO PUI CHING ROAD AND WATERLOO ROAD.

* KMB ROUTE NO. 7B ON ITS JOURNEY TO HUNG HOM WILL BE DIVERTED VIA WATERLOO ROAD, PUI CHING ROAD AND FAT KWONG STREET.

-------0---------

WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * *

„ STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 68.1 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 399.002 MILLION CUBIC METRES.

THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 384.522 CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 65.6 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.

MILLION

-----o------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE TO BE SET UP—SIR DAVID.......... 1 EIGTH JLG MEETING NEXT WEEK ................................ 3 SURVEY OFFICE REPORT TO BE TABLED IN LEGCO ................. 3 COPIES OF SURVEY OFFICE REPORT AVAILABLE TO PUBLIC ......... 4 PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS TO OFFER MATRICULATION COURSES ....... 4 PROVISIONAL RESULTS OF RETAIL SALES SURVEY FOR AUGUST ...... 6 EYE CARE CAMPAIGN ORGANISED FOR ELDERLY .................... 9 KOWLOON CITY PREPARES ANTI-SMOKING CAMPAIGN ................ 11 NORTH DISTRICT DELEGATION IO REPORT CN TOUR................. 12 TUEN MUN TO SPUR INTEREST IN RUNNING ....................... 12 YUEN LONG DB COMMITTEE TO MEET TOMORROW .................... 13 YAU MA TEI TO PROMOTE CLEANLINESS .......................... 13 SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOaRD TO DISCUSS OUTLINE ZONING PLAN...... 1*+

CORRECTIONAL SERVICES FAIR ON SATURDAY ..................... 15 SHOWS TO SUPPLEMENT CAREERS EXHIBITION ..................... 16 DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS VANDALISM AT SITES ................. 17 EXHIBITION ON aIDS IN YUEN LONG ............................ 17 UC KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN COMMITTEE TO MEET .................. 18 NEW TESTING LABORATORY TO BE BUILT IN KOWLOON BAY........... 18 APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR GREEN MINIBUS ROUTES .............. 19 TRAFFIC CHaNGES IN KOWLOON ................................. 19 TURNING MOVEMENT BANNED ON CASTLE PEAK ROAD ................ 20 PARTIAL CLOSURE OF TUEN MUN ROAD ........................... 20

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987

SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE TO BE SET UP—SIR DAVID ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE GOVERNMENT INTENDS TO SET UP A SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE WHICH, IN THE LIGHT OF RECENT EVENTS, WILL EXAMINE THE OPERATION OF THE FUTURES EXCHANGE AND THE STOCK EXCHANGE AS WELL AS THE SUPERVISORY SYSTEM, THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, SAID THIS (TUESDAY) EVENING.

THE CHAIRMANSHIP AND MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE, AS WELL AS ITS TERMS OF REFERENCE, WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN THE NEAR FUTURE, SIR DAVID SAID WHEN SPEAKING AT THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER OF THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL.

"I SHALL BE ASKING THE COMMITTEE TO PRODUCE AN EARLY REPORT GIVING ADVICE ON HOW WE SHOULD IMPROVE OUR EXISTING ARRANGEMENTS,” HE SAID.

THE SUPERVISORY SYSTEM INVOLVES THE COMMODITIES TRADING COMMISSION, THE SECURITIES COMMISSION AND THE OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER FOR SECURITIES AND COMMODITIES TRADING.

SIR DAVID MADE THESE REMARKS AFTER STATING THAT PRODUCTIVITY COULD NOT BE LOOKED AT IN ISOLATION FROM THE ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT—AND THAT ENVIRONMENT HAD BEEN SHAKEN IN THE PAST TWO WEEKS.

“I SHOULD LIKE TO COMMENT ON THESE RECENT, TRAUMATIC EVENTS AND ACTION THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAS TAKEN, AND WILL BE TAKING IN RESPONSE TO THEM,” HE SAID.

HE EMPHASISED THAT THE RECENT SHARP FALL ON WAS NOT CONFINED TO HONG KONG AND, INDEED, THE REACTION TO FALLS ELESWHERE IN THE WORLD.

THE STOCK MARKET FALL HERE WAS A

“NOTHING COULD DEMONSTRATE MORE CLEARLY HOW INTER-RELATED THE ECONOMIES OF THE WORLD NOW ARE. WE IN HONG KONG CANNOT BE ISOLATED FROM EVENTS ELSEWHERE. THE GLOBAL MARKET IS A REALITY. SO IS THE 24 HOUR STOCK MARKET. WE ARE A PART OF BOTH.”

SIR DAVID SAID THERE WAS A LESSON TO BE LEARNT FROM THESE EVENTS FOR POLICY ON WORLD TRADE. JUST AS THE STOCK MARKETS OF THE WORLD WERE INTER-DEPENDENT, SO WAS THE WORLD TRADING SYSTEM.

“PROTECTIONISM AND ARTIFICIAL BARRIERS TO TRADE WILL DAMAGE ALL PARTS OF THE WORLD TRADING SYSTEM. NOBODY WILL GAIN. THIS IS THE MESSAGE THAT I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO PUT ACROSS DURING MY RECENT VISIT TO THE UNITED STATES.”

/THERE WERE

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER J, 1987

- 2 -

THERE WERE OTHER LESSONS NEAR HOME, SIR DAVID WENT ON. AS THE EFFECTS OF THE SUDDEN DROP IN THE STOCK MARKET PRICES HERE AND AROUND THE WORLD WERE ANALYSED, IT BECAME CLEAR THAT HONG KONG FACED A SERIOUS PROBLEM WITH ITS FINANCIAL FUTURES MARKET.

IT WAS A RELATIVELY NEW MARKET, AND NOT ONE IN WHICH MOST PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY HAD ANY INVOLVEMENT.

AFTER THE SUSPENSION OF TRADING APPARENT THAT, IF NOTHING WAS DONE TO THE MARKET MIGHT NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO A KNOCK-ON EFFECT ON THE STOCK MARKET.

ON THE STOCK MARKET, IT BECAME UNDERPIN THE FUTURES MARKET, REOPEN. THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN

"UNLESS THE POTENTIAL DAMAGE HAD BEEN CONTAINED, THERE COULD HAVE BEEN SERIOUS EFFECTS ON THE WHOLE OF THE FINANCIAL SYSTEM IN HONG KONG , " HE SAID.

"BECAUSE OF THE SERIOUSNESS OF THE SITUATION THE GOVERNMENT HAD TO ORGANISE QUICKLY A SUPPORT FACILITY FOR THE CORPORATION GUARANTEEING CONTRACTS IN THE FUTURES MARKET," HE SAID.

"THE PURPOSE OF THIS SUPPORT OPERATION WAS NOT TO HAIL OUT THOSE WHO HAD TAKEN RISKS AND CALCULATED WRONGLY. JUST AS THEY PROFITED WHEN THE MARKET WAS IN THEIR FAVOUR, SO THEY NOW REMAIN LIABLE FOR THEIR LOSSES. THE PURPOSE WAS TO MAKE SURE THAT THESE LOSSES DTD NOT SNOWBALL TO AFFECT THE WHOLE OF OUR ECONOMY."

SIR DAVID SAID IT WAS IMPORTANT ALSO TO REMEMBER THAT THE CREDIT FACILITIES WHICH HAD BEEN MADE AVAILABLE TO THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION BY THE EXCHANGE FUND AND BY OTHERS WERE A LOAN, NOT A GIFT. "THEY WILL BE REPAID AND REPAID WITH INTEREST. THE RESOURCES IN THE EXCHANGE FUND ARE NOT ADVERSELY AFFECTED."

AS A RESULT OF THE SUPPORT OPERATION, THE SYSTEM HAD REMAINED INTACT, HE SAID. THERE WAS STILL NERVOUSNESS TN THE MARKET, HERE AND ELSEWHERE. BUT HONG KONG HAD BEEN ABLE TO RETURN TO ORDERLY TRADING, AND THAI WAS AN IMPORTANT ACHIEVEMENT.

SIR DAVID NOTED THAT HE HAD SAID IN HIS POLICY ADDRESS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL LAST MONTH THAT HONG KONG SHOULD ALWAYS BE PRUDENT, EVEN WHEN THE ECONOMY WAS DOING WELL, BECAUSE IT WAS SUBJECT TO THE AFFECTS OF EXTERNAL FORCES AND HAD TO BE ABLE TO REACT QUICKLY IF STORMS CAME.

REFERRING TO THE WORK OF THE PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL AT THIS POINT, SIR DAVID SAID THAT IF THE INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY OR OUR OWN ECONOMY MIGHT BE AFFECTED BY RECENT EVENTS, IT WAS DOUBLY IMPORTANT THAT THE TERRITORY SHOULD MAINTAIN ITS COMPETIVENESS IN WORLD MARKETS. THAT WAS WHY PRODUCTIVITY IN OUR INDUSTRIES WAS SO IMPORTANT.

THE PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL HAD AN IMPORTANT ROLE TO PLAY IN THAT AREA, HE SAID, ADDING THAT HE WAS CONFIDENT THE COUNCIL HAD THE DETERMINATION AND ABILITY TO MEET THE CHALLENGE POSED BY COMPLEX AND DIVERSE TASKS THAT LAY AHEAD-

- - 0 - -

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987

- 5 -

EIGHTH JLG MEETING NEXT WEEK » * * *

THE FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE ANNOUNCED THIS (TUESDAY) MORNING THAT THE EIGHTH MEETING OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT LIAISON GROUP ON HONG KONG WILL TAKE PLACE IN PEKING FROM NOVEMBER 10 TO 13.

THE BRITISH TEAM WILL BE LED BY THE SENIOR REPRESENTATIVE, MR ROBIN MCLAREN, ASSISTANT UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE (ASIA), FCO. OTHER MEMBERS OF THE BRITISH TEAM WILL BE MR DONALD LIAO, SECRETARY FOR DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION, HONG KONG; MR DICK CLIFT, POLITICAL ADVISER, HONG KONG; MISS ALYSON BAILES, COUNSELLOR, BRITISH EMBASSY, PEKING AND MR CHRISTOPHER HUM, HEAD OF HONG KONG DEPARTMENT, FCO.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

THE LEADER OF THE BRITISH TEAM, MR ROBIN MCLAREN, WILL BE ARRIVING IN HONG KONG TOMORROW ON BR 382 (ETA 6.30 PM). A PRESS FACILITY HAS BEEN ARRANGED AT THE AIRPORT TO COVER HIS ARRIVAL. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES SHOULD ASSEMBLE AT THE AIRPORT PRESS CONFERENCE ROOM, AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING, BY 5.50 PM.

--------o----------

SURVEY OFFICE REPORT TO BE TABLED IN LEGCO ♦ ♦ * ♦ ♦

THE REPORT OF THE SURVEY OFFICE ON PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER ON THE 1987 REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENTS IN REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT WILL BE TABLED AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).

AT THE MEETING, 19 MEMBERS WILL SPEAK ON THE MOTION OF THANKS FOR THE GOVERNOR’S ADDRESS DELIVERED ON OCTOBER 7.

AND ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 5), OTHER 27 MEMBERS WILL CONTINUE TO SPEAK ON THE MOTION.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987

COPIES OF SURVEY OFFICE REPORT AVAILABLE TO PUBLIC ♦ t ♦ » * V.

THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT SUMMARISING PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT IN HONG KONG WILL BE AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 5).

THE REPORT IS ABOUT 100 PAGES LONG AND IS TO BE TABLED IN TfiE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).

THE OUTLETS FROM WHICH COPIES FOR THE PUBLIC ARE AVAILABLE ARE DISTRICT OFFICES; THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING; AND THE MARKETING OFFICE OF THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 1, BATTERY PATH, CENTRAL.

THE GOVERNMENT HAS PRINTED 120,000 COPIES OF THE REPORT IN CHINESE AND 40,000 COPIES IN ENGLISH.

THERE IS NO CHARGE FOR COPIES.

' PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS TO OFFER MATRICULATION COURSES ♦ » » » *

PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS WILL START OPERATING SECONDARY 6-7 COURSES FROM 1991 TO ENABLE STUDENTS OF THESE SCHOOLS TO PURSUE THEIR MATRICULATION EDUCATION IN THE SAME SCHOOL, THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR ROF EDUCATION, MR DAVID LAN, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).

SPEAKING TO MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES AFTER TOURING THE MARDEN FOUNDATION CARITAS PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOL IN CHAI WAN, MR LAN SAID FROM 1989 PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS WOULD RUN MORE SECONDARY 4 AND 5 CLASSES,

THE CLASS PATTERN OF A PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOL WOULD BE MODIFIED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE EDUCATION COMMISSION REPORT NO. 1.

THE NEW CLASS PATTERN WOULD GIVE TWO MORE CLASSES FOR BOTH SECONDARY 4 AND 5 AND CREATE TWO CLASSES OF SECONDARY 6 AND 7 IN EACH OF PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS.

TO COPE WITH THE CHANGES, THE RATIO OF GRADUATED AND NONGRADUATED TEACHERS AT PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS WOULD BE INCREASED FROM THE EXISTING 3:7 TO 1:1 IN THE COMING YEARS.

/TO M EET •••••••

)l *

I. R

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER J, 1?8?

TO MEET THE PROJECTED REQUIREMENTS AND EXPANSION, MR LAN SAID 10 MORE NEW PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS WITH THE PROVISION OF 14,000 PLACES WOULD BE BUILT IN STAGES IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS.

THIS WOULD BRING THE NUMBER OF PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS TO 28 PROVIDING MORE THAN 29,000 SCHOOL PLACES BY 1992. THREE OF THE SCHOOLS WOULD BE LOCATED ON HONG KONG ISLAND, SIX IN KOWLOON AND THE REMAINING 19 IN THE NEW TOWNS.

MR LAN STRESSED THAT PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS WERE NOT VOCATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTIONS. RATHER, THEY WERE ALL MODERN SECONDARY SCHOOLS EQUIPPED WITH EXPENSIVE FACILITIES TO PROVIDE A GENERAL EDUCATION TO STUDENTS WHO INTENDED TO SWITCH TO TECHNICAL EDUCATION.

"A PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOL HAS AN ENRICHED TECHNICAL CURRICULUM ACCOUNTING FOR ABOUT 45 TO 50 PER CENT OF THAT FOR SECONDARY 1 TO 3 AND 30 PER CENT FOR SECONDARY 4 AND 5," HE SAID.

TECHNICAL AND PRACTICAL SUBJECTS OFFERED BY PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS INCLUDED METALWORK, ELECTRICITY, TECHNICAL DRAWING, PRINTING, WOODWORK, ELECTRONICS, TEXTILES, CAR REPAIRS, ENGINEERING STUDIES, AIR-CONDITIONING, INTERIOR DECORATIONS, ART AND DESIGN, FASHION AND CLOTHING, ACCOMMODATION AND CATERING, TYPING, BOOK-KEEPING, OFFICE PRACTICE, RETAILING, COMPUTER STUDIES AND COMMERCIAL KNOWLEDGE.

FOR SECONDARY 6 AND 7 STUDENTS, THE TECHNICAL SUBJECTS WOULD INCLUDE ELECTRONICS AND ELECTRICITY, GRAPHICAL COMMUNICATION, DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (METAL BASED), ART AND DESIGN, COMPUTER STUDIES, PRINCIPLES OF ACCOUNTS AND BUSINESS STUDIES. THE COURSE WOULD ALSO INCLUDE LANGUAGES AND MATHEMATICS AS THE MAIN GENERAL SUBJECTS.

MR LAN SAID PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS OFFERED A PROSPECT CERTAINLY •COMPARABLE TO THAT OF GRAMMAR SCHOOLS AND URGED NEXT YEAR'S PRIMARY SCHOOL LEAVERS AND THEIR PARENTS TO WEIGH ALL THE MERITS AND DEMERITS INCLUDING THEIR CHILDREN’S APTITUDE AND INTEREST BEFORE DECIDING ON THE STREAM OF SECONDARY EDUCATION THEY WOULD PURSUE.

HE SAID LAST YEAR’S PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS RECEIVED 10,400 APPLICATIONS FOR 4,400 SECONDARY 1 PLACES. IN THE NEXT SCHOOL YEAR, MORE PLACES WOULD BE AVAILABLE ON COMPLETION OF THREE NEW PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3,

1987

PROVISIONAL RESULTS OF RETAIL SALES SURVEY FOR AUGUST

*****

, THE VALUE OF TOTAL RETAIL SALES IN AUGUST THIS YEAR, ESTIMATED AT $7,347 MILLION, WAS 22 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN AUGUST LAST YEAR WHILST THEIR VOLUME WAS 13 PER CENT HIGHER, ACCORDING TO THE PROVISIONAL RESULTS OF A SURVEY RELEASED TODAY (TUESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.

THIS REFLECTED A HIGHLY BUOYANT PRIVATE CONSUMPTION DEMAND, IN LINE WITH THE STRONG PERFORMANCE OF THE ECONOMY OVER THE COURSE OF THIS YEAR.

COMPARED WITH AUGUST LAST YEAR, RETAIL SALES OF "OTHER CONSUMER GOODS" ROSE SUBSTANTIALLY BY 29 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 20 PER CENT IN VOLUME. "CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR AND ALLIED PRODUCTS "AND CONSUMER DURABLES BOTH WENT UP BY 21 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND BY 14 PER CENT AND 12 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN SALES VOLUME.

SALES OF FOODSTUFFS, ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO INCREASED BY 12 PER CENT IN VALUE AND SIX PER CENT IN VOLUME. FUELS INCREASED BY 11 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND TWO PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.

ANALYSED BY SELECTED TRADES, SALES OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY, BY 55 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 43 PER CENT IN VOLUME. DEPARTMENT STORES ALSO ROSE SUBSTANTIALLY BY 33 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND 25 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.

SUPERMARKET SALES INCREASED BY 20 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 15 PER CENT IN VOLUME, WHILE THE INCREASE FOR CONSUMER DURABLES OTHER THAN MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS WERE NINE PER CENT AND THREE PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.

COMPARING THE PERIOD JANUARY TO AUGUST 1987 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986, TOTAL RETAIL SALES INCREASED BY 16 PER CENT IN VOLUME.

RETAIL SALES OF BOTH CONSUMER DURABLES AND "OTHER CONSUMER GOODS" INCREASED BY 20 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 11 PER CENT IN VOLUME. CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR AND ALLIED PRODUCTS WENT UP BY 16 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND NINE PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.

FOODSTUFFS, ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO INCREASED MODERATELY BY 10 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND SIX PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME. FUELS WENT UP BY ONE PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND THREE PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.

ANALYSED BY SELECTED TRADES, SALES OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS INCREASED BY 40 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 27 PER CENT IN VOLUME.

SALES BY DEPARTMENT STORES AND SUPERMARKETS WENT UP BY 24 PER CENT AND 21 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN VALUE AND 17 PER CENT AND 16 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN VOLUME.

/CONSUMER DURABLES

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER J, 1987

- 7

CONSUMER DURABLES OTHER THAN MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS INCREASED BY 12 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND SIX PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.

WHEN COMPARED WITH JULY 1987, AND BEARING IN MIND THAT THIS COMPARISON IS AFFECTED BY SEASONAL FACTORS, TOTAL RETAIL SALES FOR AUGUST 1987 INCREASED BY EIGHT PER CENT IN VALUE AND SEVEN PER CENT IN VOLUME.

SALES OF "OTHER CONSUMER GOODS” INCREASED CONSIDERABLY BY 18 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 17 PER CENT IN VOLUME. CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR AND ' -ALLIED PRODUCTS WENT UP BY FOUR PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND SIX PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.

SALES VALUE OF FOODSTUFFS, ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO INCREASED BY THREE PER CENT WHILE THE SALES VOLUME REMAINED ALMOST UNCHANGED.

CONSUMER DURABLES RECORDED A NEGLIGIBLE CHANGE IN SALES VALUE AND A SLIGHT DECREASE OF ONE PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME. FUELS DROPPED BY THREE PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND ONE PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.

ANALYSED BY SELECTED TRADES, SALES BY DEPARTMENT STORES ROSE SUBSTANTIALLY BY 27 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 29 PER CENT IN VOLUME. MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS WENT UP BY EIGHT PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND SEVEN PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.

SUPERMARKET SALES INCREASED SLIGHTLY BY TWO PER CENT IN BOTH VALUE AND VOLUME, WHILE SALES OF CONSUMER DURABLES OTHER THAN MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS FELL BY THREE PER CENT IN BOTH VALUE AND VOLUME.

TABLE 1 PRESENTS THE REVISED TOTAL RETAIL SALES FIGURE FOR JULY 1987 AND THE PROVISIONAL FIGURE FOR AUGUST 1987.

TABLE 2 SHOWS THE VALUE AND VOLUME INDEXES OF RETAIL SALES IN

JULY 1987 AND AUGUST 1987 (A) FOR ALL RETAIL TRADES, (B) BY MAJOR

TRADE GROUPS AND (C) BY SELECTED TRADES (WHICH FORM PART OF THE

RELEVANT MAJOR TRADE GROUPS), WITH AVERAGE RETAIL SALES FROM OCTOBER

.1984 TO SEPTEMBER 1985 TAKEN AS 100.

COMPARISONS OF AUGUST 1987 RESULTS WITH THOSE FOR JULY 1987 AND WITH THOSE FOR AUGUST 1986 AND COMPARISONS OF RETAIL SALES IN THE PERIOD JANUARY TO AUGUST 1987 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986 ARE ALSO GIVEN.

THE REPORT CONTAINING THE ANALYSIS OF THE AUGUST 1987 SURVEY RESULTS IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATION SALES CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, AT $1 PER COPY.

ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL NO. 5-8234941).

/table 1 .......

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987 $

- 9 -

EYE CARE CAMPAIGN ORGANISED FOR ELDERLY » ♦ t *

A THREE-WEEK EYE CARE CAMPAIGN WILL BE LAUNCHED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 7 AND 27 IN WAN CHAI AND EASTERN DISTRICTS TO PROVIDE FREE EYE CHECK-UPS AND SPECTACLES FOR SENIOR DISTRICT RESIDENTS AGED OVER 60. *’

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS, WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD AND EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE HONG KONG OPTOMETRIC ASSOCIATION, THE CAMPAIGN WILL BE HELD FROM NOVEMBER 7 TO 16 IN WAN CHAI AND FROM NOVEMBER 17 TO 27 IN EASTERN DISTRICT.

SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE EYE CARE CAMPAIGN FOR THE ELDERLY TODAY (TUESDAY), THE CO-CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR TO BOON-MAN SAID THE CAMPAIGN WAS EXPECTED TO BENEFIT MORE THAN 10,000 SENIOR RESIDENTS IN THE TWO DISTRICTS.

HE POINTED OUT THAT NOT ONLY WERE GOVERNMENT AND VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS CONCERNED ABOUT SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY, DISTRICT BOARDS ALSO PAID ATTENTION TO THIS ASPECT OF THE COMMUNITY.

IN VIEW OF THE NEEDS, BOTH THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD AND THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD HAD SET UP A SOCIAL SERVICE WORKING GROUP AND A CONCERN FOR THE AGED WORKING GROUP TO TAKE CARE OF THE PROBLEMS |ND NEED OF THE ELDERLY, HE SAID.

’’AFTER THE CHECK-UPS BY OPTOMETRISTS, THE ELDERLY CAN OBTAIN, IF REQUIRED, SPECTACLES AT SOME DESIGNATED OPTICAL SHOPS FREE OF CHARGE,” HE ADDED. p

EYE CARE EXHIBITIONS WILL ALSO BE HELD AT 11 VENUES IN B^TH WAN CHAI AND EASTERN DISTRICT DURING THE CAMPAIGN PERIOD AND A BOOKLET ON EYE CARE WILL BE DISTRIBUTED ON THE SPOT.

ANOTHER CO-CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MISS ANNA TANG SAID THE CONCERN FOR THE AGED WORKING GROUP IN WAN CHAI BEGAN DISCUSSIONS WITH THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS ON ORGANISING TRIS CAMPAIGN IN WAN CHAI LAST YEAR.

"IT WAS LATER SUGGESTED THAT THE CAMPAIGN SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO EASTERN DISTRICT TO BENEFIT MORE PEOPLE AND A JOINT ORGANISING COMMITTEE WAS FORMED.”

THE CAMPAIGN IS AIMED AT DISSEMINATING EYE-CARE KNOWLEDGE TO RESIDENTS AND IN ADDITION TO FREE EYE CHECK-UP SERVICES AND FREE SPECTACLES, SENIOR RESIDENTS WITH EYE DISEASE WOULD BE REFERRED ^TO HOSPITALS FOR TREATMENT, MISS TANG SAID.

/ALSO SPEAKING

TUESDAY, NOVDffiER 1987

10 -

til

ALSO SPEAKING AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS, MRS THERESA LAU SAID THAT THIS WAS THE SEVENTH EYE CARE CAMPAIGN JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE GROUP WITH DISTRICT BOARDS AND LOCAL ORGANISATIONS.

”IT IS THE FIRST TIME THE GROUP HAD BROUGHT TOGETHER TWO DISTRICT BOARDS TO ORGANISE A CAMPAIGN, HOPING THAT MORE ELDERLY CAN BE SERVED WITHIN A LIMITED TIME,” MRS LAU SAID.

THE TIME-TABLE FOR THE EYE CHECK-UPS IS AS FOLLOWS:

WAN CHAI (FROM 9 AM TO 5 PM DAILY)

DATE 7 VENUE

NOVEMBER 7-9 ST JAMES SETTLEMENT

NOVEMBER 10 - 11 THE METHODIST CENTRE

T NOVEMBER 12 - 13 BAPTIST OI KWAN SOCIAL SERVICE TAI HANG RESIDENTS WELFARE ASSOCIATION A:

M J NOVEMBER 14

{J NOVEMBER 15 HAPPY VALLEY AND CANAL ROAD KAIFONG WELFARE ASSOCIATION

D B NOVEMBER 16 WAN CHAI KAIFONG WELFARE ASSOCIATiBM PRIMARY SCHOOL

EASTERN (FROM 9 AM 1 TO 5 PM DAILY)

NOVEMBER 17 SHAU KI WAN KAIFONG WELFARE ADVANCEMENT ASSOCIATION

• NOVEMBER 18 - 20 NORTH POINT KAIFONG WELFARE ADVANCEMENT ASSOCIATION

NOVEMBER 21 CHUANG CHUN WEN SOCIAL CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 22 - 24 25 - 27 HING WAH COMMUNITY HALL S YUE WAN COMMUNITY HALL A)

LI W( - 0- /11

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987

11 KOWLOON CITY PREPARES ANTI-SMOKING CAMPAIGN ♦ * ♦ * ♦

AN ANTI-SMOKING CAMPAIGN WILL BEGIN IN KOWLOON CITY ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 6) WITH A DISTRICT ANTI-SMOKING DAY TO PUBLICISE THE MESSAGE THAT "CIGARETTE SMOKING IS HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH".

AN OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT THE 01 MAN ESTATE CONCOURSE AT 11 AM.

IN RESPONSE TO THE GOVERNMENT’S ANTI-SMOKING CAMPAIGN, THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD SET UP A CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE IN JULY.

THE COMMITTEE HAS ORGANISED A SLOGAN DESIGN COMPETITION, QUIZ COMPETITION AND AN ANTI-SMOKING DAY. THE TWO COMPETITIONS HAVE ATTRACTED ENTRIES FROM ABOUT 1,900 RESIDENTS, WORKERS AND STUDENTS IN THE DISTRICT.

PRIZES WILL BE AWARDED TO THE BEST 10 PARTICIPANTS IN EACH COMPETITION.

THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE CAMPAIGN WILL BE THE ANTI-SMOKING DAY WHICH WILL INCLUDES AN OPENING CEREMONY, A PUBLICITY BUS TOUR TO SPREAD THE ANTI-SMOKING MESSAGE AND AN ANTI-SMOKING EXHIBITION. THE EXHIBITION, AT THE 01 MAN ESTATE CONCOURSE AND COMMERICAL COMPLEX, WILL CONTINUE ON SATURDAY AND SUNDAY.

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE A MEMBER OF THE HONG KONG COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH, MR JOB YOUNG; KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR WONG SIK-KONG; DISTRICT OFFICER, MR ALEX FONG; AND THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT ANTI-SMOKING CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE, MR TANG PO-HONG.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT ANTI-SMOKING DAY OPENING CEREMONY AT 11 AM ON FRIDAY AT THE 01 MAN ESTATE CONCOURSE.

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3,

1987

12 -

NORTH DISTRICT DELEGATION TO REPORT ON TOUR » ♦ ♦ * »

‘A NORTH DISTRICT DELEGATION COMPRISING DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS, COMMUNITY LEADERS AND INDUSTRIALISTS RETURNED TO HONG KONG ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 1) AFTER A 12-DAY STUDY TOUR OF NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIA.

THE DELEGATION VISITED VARIOUS MAJOR CITIES IN BOTH COUNTRIES AND STUDIED GOVERNMENTAL ACTIVITIES, PARTICULARLY CITY PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT, AS WELL AS TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS.

A PRESS CONFERENCE WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) WHEN MEMBERS WILL GIVE A REPORT ON THE TOUR.

THE GROUP LEADER AND DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR RAYMOND PANG, AND THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR MATTHEW CHEUNG, WILL ATTEND.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE PRESS CONFERENCE TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) AT 11 AM IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE, JOCKEY CLUB ROAD, FANLING.

--------0 ---------

TUEN MUN TO SPUR INTEREST IN RUNNING ♦ ♦ * *

AN INVITATION IS BEING EXTENDED TO ALL ATHLETES TO TAKE PART IN A RUNNING COMPETITION ON NOVEMBER 22 (SUNDAY) AS A HIGHLIGHT OF THE 1987 TUEN MUN FESTIVAL.

THE EVENT IS BEING PRESENTED BY THE FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE AND SPONSORED BY THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD TO FOSTER RESIDENTS’ INTEREST IN RUNNING.

THOSE WHO ARE INTERESTED CAN ENTER EITHER WOMEN’S, YOUTHS’ OR MEN’S SECTIONS UNDER INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP CATEGORIES. IN ADDITION, THERE WILL BE INVITATION COMPETITION BETWEEN DISTRICTS.

APPLICATION FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE REGIONAL COUNCIL AS WELL AS AT THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES. FORMS TOGETHER WITH TWO PHOTOS AND A PHOTOCOPY OF THE PARTICIPANT’S ID CARD, COMPLETED SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE DISTRICT OFFICE OR ITS SUB-OFFICES BY MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5.

ON THE DAY OF COMPETITION PARTICIPANTS ARE REQUESTED TO REPORT TO THE BUTTERFLY ESTATE COMMUNITY CENTRE AT 9 AM.

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/13........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987

- 13 -

YUEN LONG DB COMMITTEE TO MEET TOMORROW *****

THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD’S TOWN PLANNING AND AREA DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE WILL MEET TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) TO DISCUSS THE WORK PROGRESS OF A FOOTBRIDGE LINKING LONG PING ESTATE AND WANG CHAU.

COMMITTEE MEMBER MR LEUNG CHEUK-PUI WILL ASK AT THE MEETING THE REASON OF RECENT SUSPENSION OF THE CONSTRUCTION WORK.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD TOWN PLANNING AND AREA DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AT 3 PM TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD, 13TH FLOOR, TAI KIU GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 2 KIU LOK SQUARE, YUEN LONG.

-----o-----

YAU MA TEI TO PROMOTE CLEANLINESS

* * * * »

A LARGE-SCALE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE CLEANLINESS AND HOME SAFETY IN YAU MA TEI WILL BE LAUNCHED LATER THIS MONTH.

THE CAMPAIGN, TO LAST UNTIL FEBRUARY, FEATURES A SERIES OF ACTIVITIES TO DRIVE HOME THE MESSAGE, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CAMPAIGN’S ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).

THEY INCLUDE A CLEANSING DAY, A MARKET CLEANLINESS COMPETITION, AND A YEAR-END CLEAN UP.

AN EXHIBITION ON PRODUCTS AND FACILITIES CONTRIBUTING TO BETTER AND SAFER LIVING WILL ALSO BE HELD AT THE NEW WORLD PLAZA EARLY NEXT YEAR TO PROMOTE HOME SAFETY AND BEAUTIFICATION, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

A DISTRICT-WIDE CLEAN BUILDING COMPETITION IS ALSO AMONG THE EVENTS LISTED IN THE CAMPAIGN TO AROUSE RESIDENTS’ CONCERN AND PARTICIPATION IN KEEPING THEIR LIVING ENVIRONMENT CLEAN.

IN ADDITION, AN OPERATION TO CLEAR ABANDONED SIGNBOARDS WOULD BE LAUNCHED UNDER THE JOINT EFFORTS OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND OWNERS CORPORATIONS.

/DURING THE

TUESDAY, N0VB4BER 3, 198?

14 -

DURING THE CAMPAIGN, THE FIVE AREA COMMITTEES OF THE DISTRICT WILL BE MOBILISED TO CONDUCT AREA INSPECTIONS AND IDENTIFY PROBLEM SPOTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL NUISANCE.

THE YAU MA TEI DISTRICT BOARD HAS ALLOCATED $55,000 TO SPONSOR THE THREE-MONTH CAMPAIGN.

-----o------

SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD TO DISCUSS OUTLINE ZONING PLAN » ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 5) TO DISCUSS THE DRAFT TAI TAM AND SHEK O OUTLINE ZONING PLAN, WHICH SETS OUT THE PROPOSED LAND USAGE IN THE TWO AREAS.

A SENIOR TOWN PLANNER OF THE TOWN PLANNING OFFICE, MR TERRY ARTHUR, WILL PRESENT THE DRAFT PLAN TO BOARD MEMBERS AND HEAR THEIR VIEWS.

GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS FROM RELEVENT DEPARTMENTS WILL ALSO REPLY TO THREE QUESTIONS RAISED BY BOARD MEMBERS IN RELATION TO THE TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT THE JUNCTION OF ISLAND ROAD AND REPULSE BAY ROAD, CARRYING OF ID CARDS BY FISHERMEN IN ABERDEEN HARBOUR AND THE FUNCTIONS OF THE DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE.

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE REPORTS OF THE DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE, THE DISTRICT BOARD’S VARIOUS COMMITTEES AND THE DISTRICT’S AREA COMMITTEES.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD MEETING WHICH WILL BE HELD AT 2.30 PM ON THURSDAY IN THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, 2/F, MEI FUNG COURT, ABERDEEN CENTRE, NO.7-11 NAM NING STREET, ABERDEEN.

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/15........

TUESDAY, NOVBMBW 3, 1987

- 15 -

CORRECTIONAL SERVICES FAIR ON SATURDAY ♦ * » » » t

THE 35TH AUTUMN FAIR OF THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 AT STANLEY.

IN THE FAIR, MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC CAN BUY ATTRACTIVE STUFFED TOYS AND HANDICRAFT ITEMS AT REASONABLE PRICE AND AT THE SAME TIME CONTRIBUTE TO CHARITY.

ON SALE WILL BE ARTS AND HANDICRAFT ITEMS MADE BY PRISONERS DURING THEIR DETENTION IN VARIOUS PENAL INSTITUTIONS. THE PRODUCTS ALSO REFLECT PART OF THE EDUCATIONAL AND PRACTICAL ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN BY PRISONERS.

MRS GILLIAN FORD, WIFE OF THE CHIEF SECRETARY, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE FAIR AT 12 NOON AT THE FOOTBALL FIELD NEXT TO STANLEY PRISON. IT WILL LAST UNTIL 5 PM.

A WIDE VARIETY OF PRODUCTS, INCLUDING STUFFED TOYS, HANDICRAFT ITEMS, RATTAN AND WOODEN FURNITURE, WILL BE ON SALE AT SOME 30 STALLS. ALL GOODS ARE REASONABLY PRICED AND PROCEEDS OF THE FAIR WILL BE DONATED TO VARIOUS CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS AND THE DEPARTMENT’S WELFARE FUND.

WHILE SHOPPING AROUND THE STALLS, VISITORS CAN ALSO ENJOY A RICH PROGRAMME OF ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS, INCLUDING DISPLAY BY THE GODSTREAM GUARDS BAND, PERFORMANCE BY THE 29 SQUADRON MOTORCYCLE DISPLAY TEAM AND THE CAPE COLLINSON MARCHING BAND. THERE WILL ALSO BE GAME AND SNACK STALLS FOR CHILDREN.

AS PARKING PLACES ARE LIMITED, VISITORS ARE ADVISED TO TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORT. BUS ROUTE NOS. 6 AND 260 (STARTING FROM CENTRAL), NO.73 (FROM WAH FU ESTATE), NO. 63 (FROM NORTH POINT) AND NO. 14 (FROM SAI WAN HO) ARE CONVENIENT WAYS OF GETTING TO THE FAIR.

ADMISSION IS FREE AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND.

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/16

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987

SHOWS TO SUPPLEMENT CAREERS EXHIBITION

*****

VISITORS TO THE CAREERS ’88 EXHIBITION AT THE SHA TIN TOWN HALL DURING THE COMING WEEKENDS WILL BE ENTERTAINED TO A SERIES OF PERFORMANCES BY VARIOUS DISCIPLINARY SERVICES.

THE ACTIVITIES, TO BE STAGED AT THE OPEN SPACE BETWEEN SHA TIN TOWN HALL AND THE NEW TOWN PLAZA, WILL BE HELD FROM 10 AM TO ABOUT 5 PM ON THE FOLLOWING DAYS:

* SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 - CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT

* SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT

* SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 -ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE

* SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15 - CIVIL AID SERVICES

AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES

ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT

(THE VOLUNTEERS)

ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ACTIVITIES INCLUDE STATIC DISPLAYS, POLICE AND DRUG DETECTION DOG SHOWS, TURNTABLE LADDER RESCUE DRILL AND CARDIAC-PULMONARY RESUSCITATION DEMONSTRATION BY THE FIRE SERVICES, PERFORMANCE BY POLICE CADET AND JUNIOR POLICE CALL, DEMONSTRATION BY THE CIVIL AID SERVICES BICYCLE TEAM, JUNIOR LEADER CORPS SILENT DRILL, BAND PERFORMANCE BY THE AUXILIARY POLICE AND AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES, FIRST AID AND MARTIAL ARTS DISPLAY.

THE CAREERS EXHIBITION, JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, WILL BE OPENED BY THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, MR HARNAM GREWAL; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG; AND THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR TONY HAMMOND, ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 6).

THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPENED TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC DAILY BETWEEN 9.30 AM AND 6.30 PM FROM NOVEMBER 7 TO NOVEMBER 16.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 3 PM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 6) AT THE EXHIBITION HALL, SHA TIN TOWN HALL.

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/17

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS VANDALISM AT SITES » » t * »

THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENT AND WORKS COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS THE PROBLEM OF VANDALISM CONCERNING TWO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS AT A MEETING ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 5) .

THE PROJECTS ARE THE SMITHFIELD TEMPORARY PARK AND A PAVILION AT LUNG FU SHAN.

THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT WILL PRESENT AN INFORMATION PAPER ON PLANNING STANDARDS OF RECREATIONAL FACILITIES AND ON CURRENT PROVISIONS IN THE DISTRICT.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS A COMPLAINT FROM A SECONDARY SCHOOL CONCERNING NOISE CAUSED BY WORK AT A CONSTRUCTION SITE IN HOK S7 TERRACE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD'S ENVIRONMENT AND WORKS COMMITTEE MEETING STARTING AT 2.30 PM ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 5) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM, 14/F., HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL.

- - 0 - -

EXHIBITION ON AIDS IN YUEN LONG » » * *

AN EXHIBITION ON AIDS, ACQUIRED IMMUNE DIFFICIENCY SYNDROME, WILL BE HELD AT THE YUEN LONG TOWN HALL FROM THURSDAY TO NOVEMBER 9 AS PART OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT CIVIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN.

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE WORKING GROUP ON YUEN LONG DISTRICT CIVIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN AND THE YUEN LONG TOWN HALL, THE EXHIBITION IS AIMED AT PROVIDING YUEN LONG RESIDENTS WITH A CLEARER PICTURE ON THE INCURABLE DISEASE.

APART FROM DISPLAY PANELS, THE EXHIBITION ALSO FEATURES VIDEO AND SLIDE SHOWS ON AIDS.

THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPENED BY THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR TAI KUEN; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE YUEN LONG TOWN HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE, MR LEUNG SHUI-FAT AND THE ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MR ALDAN KWOK AT 11.30 AM ON THURSDAY AT YUEN LONG TOWN HALL, TAI YUK ROAD.

/18

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987

- 18 -

UC KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN COMMITTEE TO MEET

*****

MEMBERS OF THE URBAN COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN COMMITTEE WILL MEET TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) TO REVIEW THE PROGRESS OF THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN ACTIVITIES.

REPORTS WILL BE MADE ON THE CLEANSING OF PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREAS, THE 'CLEAN SCHOOL’ ACTIVITIES, KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN YOUTH RALLY IN MID-OCTOBER, AND THE PROGRESS OF THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN PARADE TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 15.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING 2.30 PM IN THE COMMITTEE ROOM NO.2, 4/F, EDINBURGH PLACE.

--------0 ---------

NEW TESTING LABORATORY TO BE BUILT » * * ♦ ♦

WHICH WILL BE HELD AT URBAN COUNCIL CHAMBERS,

IN KOWLOON BAY

A $24,6-MILLION CONTRACT HAS BEEN AWARDED BY THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A PURPOSE-BUILT CENTRAL MATERIALS TESTING LABORATORY IN KOWLOON BAY.

WORK IS SCHEDULED TO START ON NOVEMBER 11 AND TAKE ABOUT 16 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.

SITUATED AT CHEUNG YIP STREET, THE LABORATORY WILL BE A FOUR-STOREY STRUCTURE WITH A TOTAL FLOOR AREA OF 6,400 SQUARE METRES.

IT WILL BE STAFFED BY SPECIALISTS FROM THE GEOTECHNICAL CONTROL OFFICE OF THE CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT TO PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE TESING SERVICES TO ALL GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS ON MOST CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS IN HONG KONG, WITH EMPHASIS ON SOILS, CONCRETE, STEEL AND BITUMINOUS MATERIALS.

THE LABORATORY WILL HELP ENSURE THAT ECONOMIC ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS ARE ACHIEVED WITH HIGH STANDARDS OF DESIGN, SAFETY AND CONSTRUCTION.

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/19........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1987

u APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR GREEN MINIBUS ROUTES » » » *

THOSE WHO ARE INTERESTED IN OPERATING THE 18 NEW GREEN MINIBUS ROUTES IN THE TERRITORY ARE REMINDED THAT APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED ON OR BEFORE FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 6). .

"ABOUT 500 APPLICATION FORMS FOR OPERATING THESE ROUTES HAVE ALREADY BEEN DISTRIBUTED SINCE APPLICATIONS WERE INVITED FROM OCTOBER 9," SAID A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT.

A SELECTION BOARD, COMPRISING NON-GOVERNMENT MEMBERS OF THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND OFFICIALS FROM THE TRANSPORT AND OTHER RELEVANT GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, WILL MEET AND SELECT THE APPLICANTS ON THE BASIS OF THE ESTABLISHED CRITERIA LAID DOWN BY THE BOARD.

"THESE CRITERIA INCLUDE EXPERIENCE OF THE APPLICANT IN TRANSPORT SERVICE, FINANCIAL RESOURCES, MANAGEMENT RIGHT OVER THE VEHICLES, THE MAINTENANCE RECORD OF THE VEHICLES AS WELL AS THE QUALITY OF HIS VEHICLES TO BE DEPLOYED INCLUDING THE AVAILABILITY OF AIR-CONDITIONING," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

IF THE APPLICANT IS IN OR INTENDS TO ENTER INTO PARTNERSHIP WITH ONE OR MORE PERSONS TO OPERATE THE GREEN MINIBUS SERVICES, IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT A COMPANY BE FORMED UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE AND THE APPLICATION BE MADE IN THE NAME OF THE COMPANY, HE ADDED.

IC ------o---------

c 4

a 4

TRAFFIC CHANGES IN KOWLOON

* » *

A NUMBER OF TRAFFIC CHANGES WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN KOWLOON FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6. C ’C

IN TSIM SHA TSUI, BRISTOL AVENUE BETWEEN MODY ROAD AND CARNARVON ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED FROM ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND TO ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW. '

TO FACILITATE ROAD WORKS IN YAU MA TEI, THE SECTION OF YUNNAN LANE BETWEEN SHEK LUNG STREET AND WATERLOO ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC. THE MEASURE WILL BE IN FORCE FOR ABOUT TWO MONTHS.

/IN ADDITION, ......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER J, 198?

-ZO-

IN ADDITION, THE SPEED LIMIT ON TWO ROAD SECTIONS IN WONG TAI SIN WILL BE REDUCED TO 50 KILOMETRES PER HOUR FOR ABOUT 18 MONTHS. THEY ARE:

» THE EASTBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF LUNG CHEUNG ROAD FROM A POINT ABOUT 25 METRES EAST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH THE SLIP ROAD LEADING TO LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 500 METRES EAST OF THE SAME JUNCTION; AND

* THE SECTION OF THE SLIP ROAD LEADING FROM LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD TO LUNG CHEUNG ROAD EASTBOUND BETWEEN A POINT ABOUT 50 METRES SOUTH OF ITS JUNCTION WITH LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD AND ITS JUNCTION WITH LUNG CHEUNG ROAD EASTBOUND.

-----o------

TURNING MOVEMENT BANNED ON CASTLE PEAK ROAD

» » « »

FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 6), VEHICLES ON BOTH NORTHBOUND AND SOUTHBOUND CASTLE PEAK ROAD WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO TURN LEFT OR RIGHT ON TO TSING LUN ROAD IN TUEN MUN.

FRANCHISED BUSES, HOWEVER, ARE NOT SUBJECT TO THIS RESTRICTION.

THE MEASURE WILL BE IN FORCE FOR ABOUT 11 WEEKS TO FACILITATE CONSTRUCTION WORK ON THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEM.

' r*

AFFECTED VEHICLES WILL HAVE TO TRAVEL VIA ROAD P2, TSUN WEN ROAD AND TSING CHUNG KOON ROAD. ,z

-------o---------

PARTIAL CLOSURE OF TUEN MUN ROAD

* * t *

THE SOUTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF TUEN MUN ROAD AT SO KWUN WAT BRIDGE WILL BE PARTIALLY CLOSED FROM THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 5) TO 'NOVEMBER 30 TO FACILITATE ROAD RE-SURFACING WORKS. T

THE THREE TRAFFIC LANES ON THE CARRIAGEWAY WILL BE CLOSED IN TURN DAILY AND AT LEAST ONE OF THEM WILL BE KEPT OPEN DURING THE ROAD

WORKS.

C' -__________________________________0--------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING :

CS: SURVEY OFFICE REPORT A REMARKABLE DOCUMENT ........... 1

DEFINITION OF 'QUALIFIED ENGINEER' AMENDED ............... 3

NEED FOR FUTURES MARKET CALLED INTO QUESTION ............. 4

TIME TO STRENGTH® SUPERVISION OF SECURITIES MARKETS .... 6

BOLDER SOLUTION TO LABOUR SHORTAGE NEEDED ................ 9

DETERMINATION THE FOUNDATION OF CONFIDENCE .............. 11

TIMELY TO EMPHASISE LOCaL CULTURAL TALENT ............... 14

RESCUE PLAN TOR EXCHANGE CRITICISED ..................... 17

GOOD PLANS NEED THOROUGH IMPLEMENTATION .................. 19 .

IMPORTANCE OF SOUND, HEALTHY ECONOMY STRESSED ........... 22

APPROPRIATE TIME FOR SOME TAX RELIEF .................... 24

REVIEW WILL HELP RESTORE CONFIDENCE...................... 27

HK NEEDS TO DIVERSIFY EXPORT MARKETS .................... 29

AVOID ANY STRESS WHICH REDUCES CONFIDENCE ............... 30

INTEGRITY IN FINANCIAL MARKETS IS ESSJJiTIAL ............ 32

SCIENCE COMMITTEE WILL MEET GROWING NEED ................ 36

GOVERNMENT MUST BE EFFECTIVE ............................ 39

PRIVATE SECTOR HAS IMPORTANT ROLE........................ 42

REPORT OF THE SURVEY OFFICE PUBLISHED ..................... 45

"RESTRICTIVE TRADE MEASURES DO NOT PAY" ................... 48

PARADE TO LAUNCH KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN DRIVE................ 49

VTC TO IMPLEMENT TRADE TESTING FOR CAR INDUSTRY ........... 49

SECOND CHOLERA CASE CONFIRMED ............................. 50

ROAD SAFETY MESSAGE SPREAD IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT ........... 51

ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN TO BEGIN IN KWAI TSING ............... 52

KWAI CHUNG AND TSING YI DISTRICT BOARD MEETING............. 52

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

CS: SURVEY OFFICE REPORT * t «

A REMARKABLE DOCUMENT

THE REPORT OF THE SURVEY OFFICE ON THE PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER IS A REMARKABLE DOCUMENT, NOT JUST BECAUSE OF ITS SIZE AND DETAIL, BUT BECAUSE IT REFLECTS THE VIEWS CONTAINED IN OVER 130,000 SUBMISSIONS SENT DIRECT TO THE SURVEY OFFICE, AS WELL AS IN NEARLY 170 PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS AND OVER 20 SIGNATURE CAMPAIGNS, ON HOW THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WISH TO SEE THE SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT DEVELOP IN 1988 AND BEYOND, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

TABLING THE REPORT AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING, MR FORD SAID THE MAGNITUDE OF THAT RESPONSE FAR EXCEEDED THAT IN ANY PREVIOUS PUBLIC CONSULTATION EXERCISE.

HE SAID THAT THERE HAD BEEN UNDERSTANDABLE PUBLIC CONCERN AT THE DISCOVERY THAT SOME SUBMISSIONS TO THE SURVEY OFFICE WERE NOT ACTUALLY SENT BY THOSE FROM WHOM THEY PURPORTED TO HAVE BEEN SENT.

A TOTAL OF 1,909 SUBMISSIONS WERE DELETED FROM THE SURVEY OFFICE RECORDS AND REFERRED TO THE POLICE FOR INVESTIGATION.

THESE SUBMISSIONS ADVOCATED VERY DIFFERENT POINTS OF VIEW. WHILE 904 SUPPORTED AND 977 OPPOSED THE INTRODUCTION OF DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988, 28 DID NOT COMMENT SPECIFICALLY ON THE TIMING OF DIRECT ELECTIONS, HE SAID.

MR FORD SAID THAT OF THE FURTHER 542 ALLEGED FALSE SUBMISSIONS WHICH CAME TO LIGHT TOO LATE TO BE EXCISED FROM THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT, 238 SUPPORTED AND 293 OPPOSED THE INTRODUCTION OF DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988, AND 11 DID NOT COMMENT ON THE TIMING OF DIRECT ELECTIONS.

"IT IS INDEED A PITY THAT A SMALL MINORITY SHOULD APPARENTLY HAVE SOUGHT TO INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF THE SURVEY WITH THE SUBMISSION OF BOGUS OPINIONS; BUT THESE INCIDENTS SHOULD BE VIEWED IN PERSPECTIVE.

"THERE CAN BE NO DOUDT THAT THE VAST MAJORITY OF SUBMISSIONS ARE GENUINE AND MADE IN GOOD FAITH," HE SAID.

OVER 90 PER CENT OF ALL SUBMISSIONS FROM INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS OF INDIVIDUALS INCLUDED IDENTITY CARD NUMBERS WHICH COULD BE CROSS-CHECKED AGAINST THE NAMES SUPPLIED.

ALL SUBMISSIONS BEARING AN ADDRESS WERE ACKNOWLEDGED IN WRITING BY THE SURVEY OFFICE, HE SAID, ADDING THAT IT WAS THROUGH THIS MECHANISM THAT THE EXISTENCE OF THE FALSE SUBMISSIONS WAS DISCOVERED.

/HR FORD........

WEDNESDAY, NOVBNBER 4, 198?

- 2 -

MR FORI) SAID: "FAR FROM UNDERMINING THE CREDIBILITY OF THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT, THE DETECTION OF THESE FALSE SUBMISSIONS HAS DEMONSTRATED THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PROCEDURES ADOPTED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE TO ASCERTAIN BEYOND REASONABLE DOUBT THAT THE SUBMISSIONS REFLECTED IN THE REPORT WERE AUTHENTIC."

FURTHER EVIDENCE OF THE THOROUGH SCRUTINY WHICH HAD BEEN BROUGHT TO BEAR ON ALL ASPECTS OF THE WORK OF THE SURVEY OFFICE WAS PROVIDED IN THE REPORT BY THE INDEPENDENT MONITORS, HE SAID.

THE INDEPENDENT MONITORS WERE REQUIRED BY THEIR TERMS OF REFERENCE "TO OBSERVE ALL ASPECTS OF THE WORK OF THE SURVEY OFFICE AND TO SUBMIT THEIR INDEPENDENT REPORT TO THE GOVERNOR AS TO WHETHER THEY ARE SATISFIED THAT THE SURVEY OFFICE HAS PROPERLY, ACCURATELY AND IMPARTIALLY CARRIED OUT ITS DUTIES AND FOLLOWED THE PROCEDURES PRESCRIBED IN ITS TERMS OF REFERENCE.

"IT IS QUITE CLEAR THAT THE MONITORS HAVE OBSERVED ALL ASPECTS OF THE WORK OF THE SURVEY OFFICE VERY CLOSELY, AND THAT CONSIDERABLE WEIGHT CAN AND SHOULD BE ATTACHED TO THEIR JUDGEMENT THAT THE SURVEY OFFICE HAS PROPERLY, ACCURATELY AND IMPARTIALLY CARRIED OUT ITS DUTIES," MR FORD SAID.

MR FORD WENT ON TO SAY THAT WHILE IT WOULD NOT BE APPROPRIATE FOR HIM TO COMMENT ON THE PATTERN OF PUBLIC RESPONSE, THE PUBLIC OPINION ON EACH OF THE MAJOR ISSUES IN THE GREEN PAPER HAD BEEN COLLATED AND WAS RECORDED IN DETAIL IN THE VARIOUS CHAPTERS OF THE SURVEY REPORT.

"AS EXPECTED, THE ISSUE OF WHETHER THERE SHOULD BE DIRECT ELECTIONS TO THIS COUNCIL, AND IF SO WHEN, HAS DOMINATED PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER WITH NEARLY 96 PER CENT OF SUBMISSIONS COMMENTING ON THIS ISSUE.

"THE QUESTION WAS ALSO THE SUBJECT OF NEARLY ALL THE PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS WHICH HAVE BEEN CONDUCTED, EITHER BY THE FIRM COMMISSIONED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE OR BY OTHERS, AS WELL AS ALL THE SIGNATURE CAMPAIGNS AND SIMILAR DOCUMENTS," HE SAID.

MR FORD SAID THAT IT WOULD NOW BE NECESSARY FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO APPROACH, WITH GREAT CARE, THE TASK OF ASSESSING THE OUTCOME OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON THE 1987 REVIEW AND DECIDING ON THE POLICIES TO BE ADOPTED AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE EXERCISE, WHICH MEANT REFLECTING CAREFULLY ON ALL THE MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT.

"ALL THE VIEWS WHICH HAVE BEEN EXPRESSED ARE IMPORTANT AND ALL WILL HE TAKEN FULLY INTO ACCOUNT."

MR FORD SAID THAT IMPORTANT DECISIONS WOULD NEED TO BE TAKEN OVER THE NEXT THREE OR FOUR MONTHS ON WHAT CHANGES IT WOULD BE RIGHT TO MAKE IN 1988, AND HE NOTED THAT THE WHITE PAPER WOULD BE PUBLISHED IN EARLY 1988.

"I AM FULLY CONFIDENT THAT, WHEN IT IS PUBLISHED, THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WILL SEE THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAS HONOURED ITS COMMITMENT TO TAKE FULL ACCOUNT OF THEIR VIEWS," HE SAID.

------0-------- /3..................

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4,

1987

DEFINITION OF ’QUALIFIED ENGINEER’ AMENDED ♦ ♦ ♦ * ♦

THE HON CHENG HON-KWAN MOVED A RESOLUTION AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TODAY (WEDNESDAY) TO SET OUT PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE DEFINITIONS OF ’’AUTHORIZED PERSON” AND ’’QUALIFIED ENGINEER” IN THE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL (SPECIFIED PROCESSES) REGULATIONS 1987 AND THE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL (FURNACES, OVENS AND CHIMNEYS) (INSTALLATION AND ALTERATION) (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS 1987.

MR CHENG SAID HR HAD MET WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ADMINISTRATION AS WELL AS THE HONG KONG INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS, WHO HAD EXAMINED THE DEFINITIONS CAREFULLY.

HE SAID: “IN THE DEFINITION OF ’AUTHORIZED PERSON’, THE REFERENCE TO ’MUNICIPAL ENGINEER’ SHOULD BE DELETED, TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF THE FACT THAT THE INSTITUTION OF MUNICIPAL ENGINEERS NO LONGER EXISTS, AND THAT A SIMILAR AMENDMENT TO THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE HAD BEEN PASSED IN THE COUNCIL ON JULY 15, 1987.

“FURTHERMORE, THE DEFINITION SHOULD INCLUDE A SURVEYOR WHOSE NAME WAS IN LIST III OF THE AUTHORIZED PERSON’S REGISTER KEPT UNDER SECTION 3 OF THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE, SINCE HE WAS AS MUCH AN AUTHORIZED PERSON AS THOSE WHOSE NAMES WERE KEPT IN LIST I AND LIST II.”

MEANWHILE, IN THE DEFINITION OF ’QUALIFIED ENGINEER’, REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO CORPORATE MEMBERS OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS ADMITTED ON OR AFTER DECEMBER 5, 1975 UNDER THE BUILDING SERVICES, CHEMICAL, MARINE OR MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DISCIPLINE.

“THE REASON FOR THIS AMENDMENT IS OBVIOUS, SINCE CORPORATE MEMBERS UNDER THE ABOVE DESCRIPTION ARE RECOGNIZED ENGINEERS, JUST AS CORPORATE MEMBERS OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS ADMITTED ON OR AFTER THE SAME DATE UNDER OTHER DISCIPLINES ARE RECOGNIZED UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE,” HE SAID.

HE ADDED THAT AN AMENDMENT SHOULD ALSO BE MADE TO CORRECT AN INCOMPLETE REFERENCE TO THE ('BARTERED INSTITUTION OF BUILDING SERVICES ENGINEERS.

MR CHENG SAID HE WAS FULLY AWARE OF THE CURRENT RE-STRUCTURING OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS WITH A VIEW TO REGISTERING ENGINEERS WHO MIGHT INCLUDE QUALIFIED PERSONS NOT BELONGING TO THE INSTITUTION.

HE NOTED THAT HE FELT STRONGLY THAT UPON FULL COMPILATION OF THE LIST OF REGISTERED ENGINEERS WITH GOVERNMENT’S ENDORSEMENT, SUCH REGISTERED ENGINEERS SHOULD BE REFERRED TO IN ALL RELEVANT LEGISLATIONS IN I IEU OF CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP OF ALL OTHER INSTITUTIONS TO ENSURE A HIGH DEGREE OF PROFESSIONALISM.

MR (’HENG TOOK THE OPPORTUNITY TO THANK THE ADMINISTRATION FOR ITS UNDERSTANDING AND COOPERATION DURING THE COURSE OF DISCUSSION ON THE AMENDMENT AND TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS FOR HIS VALUABLE ADVICE.

- - 0 - -

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- -r‘

NEED FOR FUTURES MARKET CALLED INTO QUESTION

*****

THE SENIOR MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE HON MISS LYDIA DUNN, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WELCOMED THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION TO APPOINT A COMMITTEE TO REVIEW THE STRUCTURE AND OPERATION OF HONG KONG’S STOCK AND FUTURES EXCHANGES.

"WE MUST NOW REVIEW THOSE STRUCTURES URGENTLY IF WE ARE TO RETAIN HONG KONG’S CREDIBILITY," SHE SAID WHEN LEADING OFF THE COUNCIL’S DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS.

SHE REQUESTED THE GOVERNMENT TO CONSIDER THE FUNDAMENTAL QUESTION OF WHETHER HONG KONG NEEDED A STOCK INDEX FUTURES MARKET, AND IN WHAT WAY SUCH A "LICENSED CASINO" CONTRIBUTED TO HONG KONG’S ECONOMY.

"IN A SMALL PLACE LIKE HONG KONG, IS IT POSSIBLE TO HAVE A FUTURES MARKET WITHOUT RELYING UPON SPECULATORS TO PROVIDE A COUNTER PART TO THOSE WHO WANT TO HEDGE?" SHE ASKED.

MISS DUNN POINTED OUT THAT IN HER OPINION, THE SYSTEM WAS NOT LACKING IN "GOOD LAW" BUT IN "GOOD MANAGEMENT".

BY THIS SHE MEANT THAT THERE WERE ADEQUATE POWERS TO SAFEGUARD THE PUBLIC INTEREST, BUT THE WILL TO EXERCISE THOSE POWERS WAS WANTING.

MISS DUNN BELIEVED THERE WERE LESSONS TO BE LEARNT FROM THE RECENT EVENTS.

FIRST, THERE APPEARED TO HAVE BEEN TOO MANY CONFLICTS OF INTEREST IN THOSE WHO TOOK ON THE RESPONSIBILITY OF RUNNING ORDERLY MARKETS.

"WHERE THE POACHERS AND GAMEKEEPERS ARE THE SAME PERSONS, SELF REGULATION CAN FAIL, ESPECIALLY WHERE THE STAKES ARE HIGH," SHE SAID.

SECOND, THE GOVERNMENT AND ITS WATCHDOGS, THE SECURITIES COMMISSION AND THE COMMODITIES TRADING COMMISSION, WHICH HAD THE DUTY TO SUPERVISE THE MARKETS AND SAFEGUARD THE INTEREST OF GENUINE INVESTORS, MUST HAVE KNOWN FOR A LONG TIME THAT THE RAPID GROWTH IN THE VOLUME OF TRADING, PARTICULARLY IN THE FUTURES MARKET, HAD OVERSTRETCHED THE STRUCTURE ON WHICH THOSE MARKETS DEPENDED.

"WHY DID THE GOVERNMENT AND ITS WATCHDOGS NOT ACT? DID THEY NOT SEE THE NEED TO ACT? OR DID THEY LACK THE WILL TO ACT?" SHE ASKED.

MISS DUNN STRESSED THE NEED FOR AN EFFECTIVE SYSTEM OF CHECKS AND BALANCES IN A FAIR MARKET.

/"WHAT WE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER <t, 1987

5 -

"WHAT WE NEED ARE STRUCTURES THAT PREVENT TOO MUCH Powpp BEING IN TOO FEW HANDS, AND AN EFFECTIVE SYSTEM OF MONITORING I' . I WILL PROVIDE CLEAR WARNING OF EMERGING PROBLEMS, AND A DECISIVENESS OF RESPONSE IN DEALING WITH THEM," SHE SAID.

TURNING TO THE CIVIL SERVICE, THE SENIOR MEMBER REGA' THE GOVERNOR'S DECISION TO REVIEW THE TOP MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE THE SERVICE AS AN INDICATION OF THE GOVERNMENT’S OPEN-MINDEDNESS.

SHE HOPED THAT THE DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES , BETWEEN SECRETARIES AND THE WORKING RELATIONSHIP AND RELATIVE ' LS OF SECRETARIES AND HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS WOULD BE CONSIDERED iN THE CONTEXT OF THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GOVERNOR IN EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, AND OF THE STATUTORY RESPOND 'ILITIES AND FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY OF HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS.

COMMENTING ON THE PROVISION OF 35 ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE POSTS IN THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, MISS DUNN DOUBTED WHETHER SUCH A CONCENTRATION OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE IN THE SECRETARIAT WAS REALLY THE BEST WAY TO USE ALL THE MANPOWER.

SHE SAID THAT ONE GREAT DISADVANTAGE OF THIS CONCENTRATION WAS THAT MANY OFFICERS WOULD INEVITABLY SPEND MOST OF THEIR CAREERS IN THE SECRETARIAT AND WOULD BE CUT OFF FROM CONTACT WITH THE PUPL.'C I' ‘ FROM DAY-TO-DAY WORKING CONTACT WITH THEIR COLLEAGUES WHO WERE AT TDK SHARP END.

"THE GOVERNMENT AT ALL LEVELS MUST BE READY AND WILLING - ' l>

LET ME STRESS WILLING - NOT JUST TO CONSULT BEFORE DECISIONS 1' TAKEN. IT MUST ALSO RECOGNISE THE NEED TO EXPLAIN AND JUSTIFY Tile DECISIONS EFFECTIVELY TO THE PUBLIC AT LARGE, AND PARTICULARLY ' THOSE WHO ARE DIRECTLY AFFECTED," SHE SAID.

"PEOPLE ARE JUST NOT PREPARED TO ACQUIESCE IN GOVERNMENT B\ EDICT AS THEY ONCE DID, PARTICULARLY WHEN THEIR MEANS OF LIVELIHOOD IS AT STAKE," SHF. SAID.

MISS DUNN BELIEVED THAT THE OLD-FASHIONED ATTITUDES OF THE GOVERNMENT MIGHT DISAPPEAR MORE QUICKLY IF THE SECRETARIAT WERE STAFFED BY PEOPLE WHO HAD HAD RECENT EXPERIENCE OF WORKING AT THE SHARP END.

"NO ONE SHOULD GO INTO THE SECRETARIAT IN HIS TWEI ■ AND NOT EMERGE INTO THE LIGHT OF DAY UNTIL HE IS MIDDLE-AGED. HE MAY '1,7 TOO SET IN HIS BUREAUCRATIC WAYS BY THEN," SHE SAID.

SUCH AN ARRANGEMENT COULD ALSO BENEFIT THE -LINE

DEPARTMENTS, SHE SAID. THE SECRETARIAT WOULD HAVE A

UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROBLEMS OF RUNNING A DEPARTMENT TIE

DEPARTMENTS WOULD HAVE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF HOW THE SECRETARIAT

WORKED.

/MISS DUNN........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER k,

MISS DUNN WELCOMED THE GOVERNMENT’S INCREASED WILLINGNESS TO ACCEPT NEW IDEAS AND NEW WAYS OF DOING THINGS.

"HONG KONG GROWS AND CHANGES SO FAST THAT THE GOVERNMENT MUST BECOME MORE OPEN-MINDED," SHE J$ATD.

ON OTHER MATTERS, MISS DUNN SUPPORTED THE GOVERNMENT’S MOVE TO ESTABLISH A NEW COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY; TO INCREASE THE RESEARCH FUNDS; TO IMPROVE THE LONG-TERM FINANCIAL PLANNING AND ALLOCATION OF RESOURCES; TO RE-VAMP THE HOUSING AUTHORITY AND TO SET UP THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION.

- - 0 -

TIME TO STRENGTHEN SUPERVISION OF SECURITIES MARKETS ♦ » » » ♦

THE STRENGTHENING OF GOVERNMENT SUPERVISION OVER HONG KONG’S SECURITIES MARKETS IS NOW DUE, THE HON PETER C. WONG SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING DURING THE ANNUAL DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, MR WONG SAID IT WAS STILL TOO EARLY TO SAY WHAT EFFECTS THE RECENT EVENTS ON THE SECURITIES MARKETS WOULD HAVE ON HONG KONG’S POSITION AS A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE.

BUT IT WAS NOT TOO EARLY TO START PUTTING RIGHT WHATEVER DEFICIENCIES IN OUR SYSTEM WERE BROUGHT TO LIGHT BY THOSE EVENTS, HE ADDED.

HE SAID: "WE HAVE A LAISSEZ-FAIRE, NON-INTERVENTIONIST ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL SYSTEM, BUT IF THIS SYSTEM IS TO WORK FAIRLY AND EFFICIENTLY IT MUST HAVE A SOUND AND EFFECTIVE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK IN WHICH TO OPERATE.

"OTHERWISE, THE GOVERNMENT HAS TO INTERVENE WHEN THE LAX AND OUTDATED REGULATORY FRAMEWORK IS SHOWN IN A CRISIS TO BE TNADEQUATE."

MR WONG WELCOMED THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S ASSURANCES THAT THERE WOULD BE AN INVESTIGATION INTO WHAT HAD HAPPENED. "BUT LET THAT INVESTIGATION BE A PRODUCTIVE AND CONSTRUCTIVE ONE AND NOT MERELY A HUNT FOR CULPRITS," HE SAID.

HE SAID IT WAS FAR BETTER TO SPEND MILLIONS ON EXPANDING OUR REGULATORY AGENCIES AND EMPLOYING EXPERT CONSULTANTS TO ADVISE ON IMPROVEMENTS THAN TO SPEND BILLIONS MOPPING UP THE MESS AFTER SOMETHING HAPPENED.

/MR WONG

WEDNESDAY, NOVfNBER U, 1987

MR WONG OBSERVED THAT THE COLLAPSE OF THE EXCHANGE MARKETS HAD CERTAINLY ADDED A NEW DIMENSION TO THE NEED TO HAVE EFFECTIVE REMEDIES TO TACKLE COMPLEX COMMERCIAL CRIMES.

HE NOTED THAT THE RECENT CONCLUSION OF THE LONGEST AND MOST COMPLEX COURT CASE IN LOCAL HISTORY HAD SHOWN HOW NECESSARY IT WAS THAT THERE SHOULD BE REFORMS.

HE WAS, THEREFORE, PLEASED TO LEARN THAT A DRAFT BILL IMPLEMENTING, AS FAR AS POSSIBLE, THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE LEGCO’S SELECT COMMITTEE ON COMPLEX COMMERCIAL CRIME WOULD SOON BE PUT BEFORE THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL.

MR WONG SAID: "I DO NOT WISH TO SUGGEST THAT THERE IS ANY SIMILARITY BETWEEN FRAUD AND ABUSES ON THE STOCK EXCHANGE, BUT THE INADEQUACIES OF OUR PRESENT SYSTEM OF INVESTIGATING AND TRYING COMPLEX COMMERCIAL CRIMES AND SUCH MATTERS AS THE ABSENCE OF ANY REAL SANCTIONS AGAINST INSIDER DEALING WILL CONTINUE TO GIVE ENCOURAGEMENT TO THE OPPORTUNIST, THE UNETHICAL, AND THE DOWNRIGHT DISHONEST."

"THIS WILL CERTAINLY BE DETRIMENTAL TO IKING KONG'S REPUTATION AS A FINANCIAL CENTRE," HE ADDED.

TURNING TO HONG KONG’S RELATIONS AND LINKS WITH CHINA, MR WONG POINTED OUT THAT TWO RECENT EXAMPLES OF SPEEDY AND CONSTRUCTIVE HELP SHOWED HOW READY CHINA WAS TO COME TO HONG KONG’S AID IN TIMES OF EMERGENCY.

THE FIRST WAS THE VERY SATISFACTORY ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE REPATRIATION BACK TO CHINA OF LARGE NUMBER OF EX-CHINA VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS; AND THE SECOND WAS THE PARTICIPATION OF THE BANK OF CHINA IN THE EFFORTS TO SUPPORT THE FUTURES EXCHANGE.

MR WONG SAID THERE HAD BEEN DURING THE PAST YEAR CONSIDERABLE QUESTIONING OF CHINA’S INTENTIONS TOWARDS HONG KONG, PARTICULARLY IN RELATION TO THE REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENTS IN REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT.

HE SAID: "IT IS NATURAL FOR THERE TO BE CONCERN THAT OUR PRESENT FREEDOMS SHOULD BE PRESERVED. IT IS UNDERSTANDABLE THAT THIS CONCERN SHOULD SOMETIMES TAKE THE FORM OF ANXIETY ABOUT OUR FUTURE.

"BUT IT WILL DO OUR CONFIDENCE IN OURSELVES AND IN OUR FUTURE NO GOOD IF WE MISTRUST CHINA’S MOTIVES TOWARDS HONG KONG AND DOUBT HER INTENTIONS TO CARRY OUT THE TERMS OF THE JOINT DECLARATION."

HE ADDED: "BY ALL MEANS LET US GUARD FREEDOMS AND EXAMINE CRITICALLY THE MANY CHANGES THAT MUST TAKE PLACE DURING THE TRANSITION PERIOD, BUT LET THIS BE AN ATTITUDE OF HEALTHY CAUTION AND NOT ONE OF UNDUE SUSPICION."

/HR WONG

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

MR WONG ALSO SPOKE ABOUT THE BOAT PEOPLE ARRIVING FROM VIETNAM. HE SAID THE BURDEN OF KEEPING THOSE REFUGEES HAD ALREADY FALLEN ON HONG KONG FOR FAR TOO LONG, YET THERE WAS LITTLE SIGN OF RELIEF IN THE NEAR FUTURE AND EVERY LIKELIHOOD THAT THE BURDEN WOULD INCREASE.

HE SAID HE SUPPORTED ANY SOLUTION THAT WOULD RELIEVE HONG KONG OF THIS BURDEN WHETHER IT INVOLVED REPATRIATION OR SOME OTHER METHOD. BUT IT MUST BE A SOLUTION THAT DID NOT COMPROMISE HONG KONG’S LONG AND CONSISTENT REPUTATION FOR TREATING THE BOAT PEOPLE IN A HUMANE AND DECENT MANNER.

HE SAID: ’’SENDING THEM BACK TO VIETNAM MAY BE A LAST RESORT, IF WE CAN BE ABSOLUTELY SURE THAT THEY WILL NOT BE PERSECUTED.”

’’HOWEVER, I AM FIRMLY OPPOSED TO ANY ATTEMPT OR SUGGESTION TO TURN THEM BACK BEFORE THEY LAND TN HONG KONG. THIS IS NEITHER HUMANE NOR PRACTICAL.”

TURNING TO THE BRITISH NATIONAL (OVERSEAS) PASSPORT, MR WONG URGED THE BRITISH AND HONG KONG GOVERNMENTS TO DO MORE TO ENSURE THE ACCEPTABILITY OF THE PASSPORT TO FOREIGN COUNTRIES.

HE SAID THE INITIAL ENTHUSIASM FOR THE NEW PASSPORT HAD FIZZLED OUT LIKE A DAMP MATCH.

MR WONG SAID: "THOSE WHO ARE CONSIDERING WHETHER OR NOT TO TAKE OUT THE PASSPORT WOULD BE MORE INTERESTED TO KNOW HOW THE BRITISH AND HONG KONG GOVERNMENTS’ PROMISES ABOUT ENSURING THE ACCEPTABILITY OF THE PASSPORT HAVE BEEN FULFILLED; WHAT POSITIVE EFFORTS HAVE BEEN MADE AND WILL BE MADE TO ENSURE THAT OTHER COUNTRIES* IMMIGRATION OFFICERS ARE FAMILIAR WITH IT; AND HOW MANY COUNTRIES SO FAR HAVE SAID THAT THEY WILL RECOGNISE IT.”

’’TIME IS NOT REALLY ON OUR SIDE. WHILE I APPRECIATE THE DIFFICULTIES INVOLVED, THIS IS NOT AN EXCUSE FOR NOT PURSUING THE MATTER WITH UTMOST SPEED AND EFFORT.”

-----0------

/9.......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 9 -

BOLDER SOLUTION TO LABOUR SHORTAGE NEEDED *****

THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD COME UP WITH A BOLDER AND MORE EFFECTIVE SOLUTION TO THE LABOUR SHORTAGE PROBLEM, THE HON F.K. HU SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, MR HU SAID HONG KONG\S DEVELOPMENT HAD OUTGROWN THE POPULATION AND THERE WERE NOT ENOUGH PEOPLE TO DO THE NECESSARY WORK.

"IF THIS CONDITION IS NOT REMEDIED IN TIME, THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG WILL BE SEVERELY HAMPERED," HE SAID.

CITING JUNE STATISTICS, MR HU SAID THERE WERE 42,300, 14,850 AND 5,940 REPORTED VACANCIES RESPECTIVELY IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR, THE WHOLESALE AND RELATED TRADES SECTOR AND THE FINANCE AND BUSINESS SECTOR,MARKING A 85.2 PER CENT, 109.9 PER CENT AND 132.5 PER CENT RISE RESPECTIVELY OVER JUNE LAST YEAR.

AND IN EACH OF THESE SECTORS, CONSIDERABLE WAGE INCREASES HAD BEEN INTRODUCED. "IT IS THEREFORE APPARENT THAT THE PROBLEM NOW IS NOT WHETHER THE EMPLOYERS ARE WILLING TO PAY ENOUGH TO GET PEOPLE TO WORK FOR THEM," HE SAID.

WHILE CONCEDING THAT LABOUR-SAVING METHODS AND WAGE ADJUSTMENTS WERE EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS TO THE PROBLEM, MR HU COMMENTED THAT THESE MEASURES WOULD ONLY WORK IN THE LONG RUN AND OVER-DEPENDENCE ON THEM WOULD HAVE THE ADVERSE EFFECT OF BEING INFLATIONARY.

"ONE WAY TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM IS TO CUT BACK EXPENDITURE ON PUBLIC WORKS TO RELEASE MANPOWER ENGAGED IN PUBLIC WORKS TO OTHER SECTORS," HE SUGGESTED.

"THE MERIT OF THIS IS THAT IT CAN REDUCE THE DEMAND FOR MANPOWER AND AVOID PUSHING UP INFLATION. HOWEVER, IN THE LONG RUN, THIS COULD MEAN THAT SOME OF OUR MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS ARE NOT COMPLETED ON TIME."

ANOTHER FEASIBLE SOLUTION WAS TO RELAX IMMIGRATION REGULATIONS TO ALLOW LABOUR TO BE IMPORTED, MR HU SAID. "WE COULD CONSIDER IMPORTING WORKERS ON A CONTRACTUAL BASIS, UNDER WHICH THE WORKERS COULD ONLY WORK HERE FOR A SHORT AND LIMITED PERIOD. ON THE EXPIRY OF THAT PERIOD THEY WOULD HAVE TO RETURN TO THEIR OWN COUNTRIES," HE SAID.

"ANOTHER SHORT-TERM SOLUTION IS TO ALLOW CHINESE WORKERS TO WORK HERE ON A DAILY BASIS. THEY MAY CROSS THE BORDER IS THE MORNING AND RETURN TO ('HINA IN THE EVENING.

/’’THIS MEASURE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER U, 198?

- 10 -

"THIS MEASURE CAN ALSO BE COMPLEMENTED BY THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN INDUSTRIAL ZONE AT THE BORDER, EMPLOYING CHINESE LABOUR UNDER SIMILAR CONDITIONS.

"THESE SUGGESTIONS, THOUGH THEY HAVE ALREADY BEEN RULED OUT BY THE. GOVERNMENT, DESERVE SERIOUS RECONSIDERATION."

MR HU ALSO URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO REVIEW ITS DECISION NOT TO SET UP A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND.

HE SAID : "THE SUCCESS OF HONG KONG HAS BEEN BUILT ON THE INDUSTRY OF THE LOCAL POPULATION. RETIRED WORKERS ARE ENTITLED TO ENJOY THEIR FAIR SHARE OF THE COMMUNITY’S PROSPERITY.

"THE PROPOSALS TO CHANGE THE CHARACTER OF THE LONG SERVICE PAYMENT SCHEME TO INCLUDE EMPLOYEES RETIRING DUE TO OLD AGE OR ILL HEALTH AND TO IMPROVE THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE SCHEME WITH ITS AGE QUALIFICATION LOWERED TO 65 IN STAGES BY 1991, I AM AFRAID, ARE NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR A CONTRIBUTORY PROVIDENT FUND SCHEME."

MR HU SAID THERE WAS NO JUSTIFICATION FOR GOVERNMENT SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEMES TO BE CONFINED TO A NON-CONTRIBUTORY BASIS, PARTICULARLY AS PREVIOUS ARGUMENTS AGAINST THE SETTING UP OF A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND, SUCH AS THE UNCERTAINTY OF THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG BEYOND 1997 AND THE INABILITY OF THE ECONOMY TO AFFORD SUCH A SCHEME, WERE NO LONGER RELEVANT.

NEVERTHELESS, MR HU SAID HE WAS HEARTENED BY THE FORWARD-LOOKING PROGRAMMES THE GOVERNMENT HAD PLANNED FOR HONG KONG IN THE YEARS TO COME. HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT THE OBJECTIVE OF DEVELOPING HONG KONG INTO A SOCIETY WHICH COMBINED A STRONG, EXPANDING AND COMPETITIVE ECONOMY WITH CONCERN FOR THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF ALL ITS PEOPLE COULD BE ACHIEVED.

HE AGREED ENTIRELY WITH THE GOVERNOR’S APPROACH TOWARDS THE HONG KONG-CIIJNA RELATIONSHIP, COMMENTING THAT IT WAS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE TO FURTHER CULTIVATE AND IMPROVE THE RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA TO ENSURE HONG KONG’S STABILITY AND PROSPERITY.

"THERE ARE THREE GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR THIS RELATIONSHIP, NAMELY MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING, MUTUAL TRUST AND MUTUAL RESPECT," HE SAID.

MR HU EMPHASISED THAT OFFICIAL CHANNELS ALONE WERE NOT ENOUGH TO ACHIEVE THE ABOVETHREE PRINCIPLES AND MORE PRIVATE CHANNELS WERE NEEDED. "ONLY BY CULTIVATING CHANNELS FROM THE TOP TO GRASSROOTS LEVELS CAN WE BUILD UP THE FULL-SCALE RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA THAT OUR LONG-TERM SUCCESS REQUIRES," HE SAID.

ON THE GROWING INVOLVEMENT OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS, MR HU DESCRIBED THIS AS A MOVE "IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION". HE CITED THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR’S PARTICIPATION IN REALISING TARGETS SET BY THE LONG TERM HOUSING STRATEGY AS "WELCOME SIGNS OF A GROWING PRIVATE INVOLVEMENT IN BUILDING A BETTER HONG KONG".

/ON HOUSING,

WEDNESDAY, NOVIMBER 4, 1^8?

ON HOUSING, MR HU SAID HE WAS GLAD THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD TURNED TO A MORE DEMAND-ORIENTED HOUSING POLICY, TAKING INTO ACCOUN1 RESIDENTS’ INCREASING DESIRE TO OWN THEIR OWN HOME.

"BY PROVIDING RESIDENTS WITH THEIR OWN HOMES, WE CAN HELP TO CULTIVATE A SENSE OF BELONGING AMONG THE GENERAL PUBLIC WHICH WILL ENCOURAGE THEM TO STAY IN HONG KONG.

"AN ENLARGED HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME ALSO SERVES ANOTHER PURPOSE. IT IS AN EFFECTIVE WAY TO STABILISE THE PROPERTY MARKET, BECAUSE THE GOVERNMENT IS IN A POSITION TO ENSURE THAT THE PRICE OF HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME FLATS IS WITHIN THE REACH OF THOSE ELIGIBLE FOR IT," HE SAID.

ON SPORTS AND PHYSICAL RECREATION, MR HU REGRETTED THAT FUNDS ALLOCATED TO SPORTS BODIES WERE BASED ON THE LEVEL PAID YEARS AGO AND WERE ONLY ADJUSTED TO THE PREVAILING INFLATION RATE, WITHOUT INTO ACCOUNT ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES, NEW DEVELOPMENTS AND THE NEED TO STRENGTHEN ADMINISTRATION.

"TO MERT THE IMPROVING STANDARD OF LIVING AND THUS THE GREA’I ER DEMAND FOR SPORTS AND RECREATION, FUNDS PROVIDED TO THE RELATED BODIES HAVE TO BE DEMAND-ORIENTED, BASED ON THE ACTUAL NEED, OR ELSE LITTLE WILL BE ACHIEVED," HE SAID.

IN ADDITION, MR HU SAID THE EDUCATION SYSTEM SHOULD PLACE MORE EMPHASIS ON SPORTS AND PHYSICAL RECREATION AND THAI A DEI A ILF I) STUDY OF MATTERS RELATING TO PHYSICAL RECREATION AND HEALTH SHOULD BE UNDERTAKEN.

------o ------

DETERMINATION THE FOUNDATION OF CONFIDENCE * » » t

THE DETERMINATION OF THE CHINESE

AND BRITISH GOVERNMENTS

IMPLEMENT IN EARNEST

THE

TERMS OF THE

JOINT DECLARATION

IS AND

TO THE

FOUNDATION ON WHICH THE CONFIDENCE OFTHB^PBOPLE ° V^HE^EGISLATI VE

THE WORLD IS BASED, THE HON WONG COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

POLICY DEBATE, MR

SPEAKING DURING THE ANNUAL

AGREED WITH THE GOVERNOR THAT THE JOINT LIAISON CONTINUE TO PLAY AN EFFECTIVE

GROUP

WONG

AND

COMMISSION WOULD IMPLEMENTING THE

JOINT DECLARATION.

AND POSITIVE

SAID HE THE LAND

ROLE IN

REFERRING

OFTEN SAID IN

TO THE ECONOMIC SITUATION, MR THE PAST THAT HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

ESPECIALLY THE ...........

ADAPTED EASILY TO THE INFLUENCE OF EXTERNAL CHANGES.

WONG NOTED THAT PEOPLE ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES, WERE FLEXIBLE AND

/"THIS WAS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 19i>7

' "TUTS WAS TRUE .FOR SOME TIME, BUT I CONSIDER THAT THE SITUATION HAS ALREADY CHANGED," HE SAID.

HE NOTED THAT UP TO THE EARLY 1970’S, HONG KONG WAS AHEAD OF TAIWAN AND SOUTH KOREA. BUT AS A RESULT OF THEIR DEVELOPMENT IN THE LAST DECADE, THEY HAD ALREADY OVERTAKEN HONG KONG.

AT THE SAME TIME, OWING TO THE RAPID COMMUNICATION OF DATA, OUTSIDE CHANGES AFFECTED HONG KONG MORE QUICKLY THAN THEY AFFECTED THE TERRITORY’S NEIGHBOURS.

THEREFORE, HONG KONG SHOULD REALISE ITS CONSTRAINTS AND SHOULD BE CAUTIOUS AND NOT OVER-AMBITIOUS WHEN FORMULATING POLICY DECISIONS, MR WONG SAID.

TURNING TO THE LABOUR SHORTAGE QUESTION, MR WONG SAID THE VARIOUS INDUSTRIES SHOULD, WITHIN THEIR O^N CAPABILITIES, PROVIDE MORE BENEFICIAL CONDITIONS FOR THEIR WORKFORCE, INCLUDING BETTER WAGEES AND OTHER FRINGE BENEFITS TO ATTRACT WORKERS.

HE SUGGESTED THAT MEASURES SHOULD BE TAKEN TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF HAWKERS WHO REPRESENTED A DRAIN ON THE WORKFORCE. BESIDES, THE SCHEME TO REVOKE HAWKER LICENCES WITH CASH COMPENSATION SHOULD BE ACTIVELY PROMOTED.

HE ALSO SUGGESTED THAT MORE SUBSIDISED NURSERIES BE ESTABLISHED SO THAT MORE WOMEN COULD TAKE UP EMPLOYMENT.

MR WONG ALSO NOTED THAT LAWS REGULATING OVER-TIME WORK BY WOMEN HAD BEEN IN FORCE FOR MORE THAN A DECADE.

HE SAID THESE REGULATIONS SHOULD BE REVIEWED BECAUSE, WITH THE CHANGE OF SOCIAL CIRCUMSTANCES, WOMEN’S STATUS HAD BEEN ELEVATED AND THEIR INDEPENDENCE WAS NOW EVEN STRONGER. OVER-RESTRICTION MIGHT CONTRADICT THEIR DESIRE FOR MORE WORK, HE SAID.

OVERALL, MR WONG SAID, THE GOVERNMENT COULD STILL DO A LOT FOR 1NDUSTRY.

"FOR MANY YEARS, FOR CERTAIN REASONS WHICH I PERSONALLY DO NOT QUITE UNDERSTAND, WE HAVE NOT BEEN ADOPTING A POSITIVE AND ACTIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY."

THE RECENT ALLOCATION OF $100 MILLION OR $200 MILLION TO THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL HAD BEEN REGARDED AS AN UNPRECEDENTED, BIG ISSUE.

"COMPARED WITH THE ALLOCATIONS, WHETHER VOLUNTARY OR INVOLUNTARY, OF BILLIONS OF DOLLARS FROM THE EXCHANGE FUND, TO SOME OTHER INDUSTRIES, THE DIFFERENCE IN THE AMOUNTS IS OBVIOUS," HE OBSERVED.

/HE CONSIDERED

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER <t, 1987

HE CONSIDERED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CHANGE ITS APPROACH AND ALLOCATE, SAY, J10 BILLION, FOR DEVELOPMENT OF HIGH TECHNOLOGY, INCLUDING A TECHNOLOGY PARK AND OTHER RESEARCH CENTRES FOR ELECTRONICS, BIO-ENGINEERING AND SO ON WHICH HE BELIEVED WOULD RECEIVE THE SUPPORT OF MANY.

ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE, HE SAID HE WAS GLAD THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD NOT SLACKENED ITS EFFORTS IN THIS ASPECT BECAUSE IT WAS ESSENTIAL IN PROMOTING PRODUCTION.

HE SAID THAT WHEN PLANNING PORT DEVELOPMENTS, CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN NOT TO NEGLECT THE ANCILLARY FACILITIES SUCH AS THE NETWORK OF ROADS AND PARKING PLACES, ESPECIALLY PARKING PLACES FOR CONTAINER LORRIES.

HE SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD NOT USE LAND AUCTION PRICES AS THE BASIS TO ASSESS THE NEED FOR PROVIDING PARKING PLACES BECAUSE THESE WERE ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL FACILITIES AND THEIR EFFECT ON PRODUCTIVITY WAS INVALUABLE.

ON HOUSING DEVELOPMENT, HE SAID THE RATIO OF HOME-OWNERSHIP FLATS SHOULD BE INCREASED.

"I BELIEVE THAT THE RENTAL FLAT TYPE PUBLIC HOUSING SHOULD BE DECREASED GRADUALLY BECAUSE, IF THE PERCENTAGE OF PEOPLE RECEIVING GOVERNMENT SUBSIDY IS RELATIVELY LARGER, THE ISSUE OF PERSONAL BENEFITS WILL EASILY COME INTO PLAY AT THE TIME OF ELECTION AND THIS HAS A BEARING ON OUR POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT," HE SAID.

HE WHOLEHEARTEDLY AGREED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD GIVE PRIORITY TO REDEVELOPING THE OLDER PARTS OF THE URBAN AREA.

"AFTER WE HAVE HAD SOME SUCCESS IN DEVELOPING NEW TOWNS, IT IS NOW TIME TO TURN OUR ATTENTION TO THE OLD AND DILAPIDATED PARTS OF THE URBAN AREA," HE SAID.

MR WONG ADDED THAT ALTHOUGH HONG KONG WAS NO LONGER CALLED A "CULTURAL DESERT", WITH THE GENERAL IMPROVEMENT IN THE LEVEL OF EDUCATION, THE DEMAND FOR CULTURAL ENTERTAINMENT FROM THE NEW GENERATION WAS NO LESS THAN THEIR REQUIREMENT FOR WORK.

HE SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT POLICY IN THIS RESPECT SHOULD BE MORE POSITIVE, PROVIDING MORE RESOURCES TO THE BUDDING ARTISTIC GROUPS TO ENABLE THEM TO BLOSSOM, TO ENRICH THE CULTURAL LIFE OF THE PUBLIC AND TO PUT OUR EXISTING FACILITIES INTO FULL USE.

-----0------

/14........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 14 -

TIMELY TO EMPHASISE LOCAL CULTURAL TALENT *****

WITH 21,000 THEATRE AND CONCERT HALL SEATS COMING ON STREAM THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY BY 1989, IT IS TIMELY THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S CULTURAL POLICY SHOULD EMPHASISE THE DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL TALENT AND LOCAL PROFESSIONAL PERFORMING COMPANIES, THE HON HILTON CHEONG-LEEN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING DURING THE POLICY DEBATE, MR CHEONG-LEEN SAID HE AGREED WITH THE GOVERNOR THAT HONG KONG WAS NOW TAKING ITS RIGHTFUL PLACE AS AN IMPORTANT CULTURAL CENTRE IN THE REGION.

ELABORATING ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF TALENT, HE SAID: "AS A FIRST STEP, THE COUNCIL FOR PERFORMING ARTS IS MAKING THE RIGHT MOVE BY SUPPORTING THE IDEA IF FORMING A LIAISON COMMITTEE FOR THE EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION AND CROSS-FERTILISATION OF IDEAS."

"ON THE OTHER HAND, THERE HAS BEEN A DISTINCT VOID IN GOVERNMENT’S SUPPORT FOR THE VISUAL ARTS AND THE LITERARY ARTS. I THEREFORE LOOK FORWARD TO THE REPORT OF THE WORKING PARTY ON THE VISUAL ARTS WHICH IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED DURING THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR."

FURTHERMORE, THE URBAN COUNCIL HAD TAKEN THE INITIATIVE TO PLAN THE SETTING UP OF A VISUAL ARTS CENTRE IN VICTORIA BARRACKS, WHICH SHOULD BE OPEN IN ABOUT TWO YEARS’ TIME.

ON THE PROVISION OF CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES IN THE OLDER AND DENSELY POPULATED URBAN DISTRICTS, MR CHEONG-LEEN SAID THE URBAN COUNCIL HAD EMBARKED ON A FARSIGHTED PLAN TO BUILD SPORTS CENTRES AND COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRES WITHIN EASY ACCESS OF URBAN RESIDENTS.

HOWEVER, WITH THE PRESSURE FROM VARIOUS DISTRICT BOARDS FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO BUILD REGIONAL CULTURAL HALLS HAVING 1,000 OR MORE SEATS, HE FELT THERE WAS A NEED FOR EVEN CLOSER CO-ORDINATION AND CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION AND THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH IN ENSURING THAT TOTAL RESOURCES WERE PROPERLY USED AND THAT THE POLICIES OF THE GOVERNMENT AND THE TWO MUNICIPAL COUNCILS WERE WELL UNDERSTOOD BY DISTRICT BOARDS.

EARLIER IN HIS SPEECH, REFERRING TO HONG KONG’S RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA, MR CHEONG-LEEN EMPHASISED THAT THE CONFIDENCE OF HONG KONG PEOPLE AND THEIR DETERMINATION TO PRESERVE THEIR LIFE-STYLE AND EVOLVING SYSTEMS OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT WERE CRUCIAL TO THE SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE JOINT DECLARATION.

ON THE DRAFTING OF THE BASIC LAW, HE HOPED THAT DRAFTERS WOULD REFLECT THE HOPES AND ASPIRATIONS OF HONG KONG PEOPLE FOR A HIGH DEGREE OF POLITICAL AUTONOMY AND PRESERVATION OF A CAPITALISTIC ECONOMIC SYSTEM BASED ON THE PRINCIPLE OF JUSTICE FOR ALL.

/HE SAV

WEDNESDAY, N0VD4BER 4, 198?

- 15 -

HE SAW THE DECISIONS OF THE 13TH CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY CONGRESS AS CAUSE FOR EVEN GREATER CONFIDENCE THAT CHINA WOULD CONTINUE WITH HER MODERNISATION PROGRAMME AND OPEN POLICY TO THE REST OF THE WORLD, WHICH IN TURN AUGURED WELL FOR HONG KONG’S FUTURE STABILITY AND PROSPERITY.

MR CHEONG-LEEN ALSO SAID THAT THE SIGNIFICANT ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS IN TAIWAN HAD PROVIDED EVEN GREATER OPPORTUNITY FOR HONG KONG TO PERFORM THE ROLE OF A NEUTRAL BASE WHEREBY TRADE, CULTURAL AND SOCIAL TIES BETWEEN THE MAINLAND AND TAIWAN COULD BE FURTHER ENHANCED.

HE FELT THIS VITAL ROLE SHOULD NOT BE LOST SIGHT OF EVEN AS THE GOVERNMENT CONTINUED IN MEASURED PACE IN REPLACING EXPATRIATE ADMINISTRATORS BY HONG KONG PEOPLE IN THE RUN-UP TO 1997.

TURNING TO THE ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL SITUATION IN HONG KONG, MR CHEONG-LEEN SAID HE HOPED THAT ONCE THE DUST OF THE RECENT FINANCIAL CRISIS WAS SETTLED, OUR FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS WOULD COME OUT EVEN STRONGER AND MORE DURABLE THAN EVER BEFORE.

"THE GOVERNMENT HAS THE DUTY AND RESPONSIBILITY TO THOROUGHLY INVESTIGATE, CLEAR UP AND RECTIFY THE SITUATION SO AS TO RETAIN THE CONFIDENCE OF THE PEOPLE AND HONG KONG’S CREDIBILITY AMONG THE INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL COMMUNITY," HE SAID.

IN ORDER TO STRENGTHEN HONG KONG’S ECONOMIC VIABILITY AND USEFULNESS AS A MANUFACTUR1NG AND ENTREPOT CENTRE, AND A FINANCIAL CENTRE, MR CHEONG-LEEN NOTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD NOT LOSE MOMENTUM IN ITS DEVELOPMENT PLANS TO BUILD A NEW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.

"BY THE END OF THE CENTURY, THE NEW AIRPORT WHEN COMPLETED MAY WELL BECOME CHINA’S MOST MODERN INTERNATIONAL AIR GATEWAY TO THE OUTSIDE WORLD. AS SUCH, IT WILL REPRESENT A VITAL ELEMENT IN HONG KONG’S EXPANDING ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE," HE SAID.

"OF EQUAL IMPORTANCE IS THE NEED TO EXPAND THE PORT FACILITIES SO AS TO COPE WITH THE RAPIDLY GROWING CARGO AND CONTAINER TRAFFIC FROM THE MAINLAND. THE JOINT PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STUDY WILL HAVE TO BE COMPLETED ON TIME, THAT IS BY THE LATE SUMMER OF 1989.

"WITH OUR SUPERB HARBOUR AS ONE OF HONG KONG'S GREATER ASSETS, WE MUST AND DEFINITELY CAN PRESERVE HONG KONG’S PROMINENT ROLE AS CHINA'S NO. 1 TRANSHIPMENT CENTRE TO THE WORLD."

MR CHEONG-LEEN SPOKE HIGHLY OF THE "COURTESY CAMPAIGN" WHEN HE TURNED TO THE TOURIST INDUSTRY.

HE SAID THIS BIENNIAL CAMPAIGN WOULD NOT ONLY STRENGTHEN CIVIC CONSCIOUSNESS AND PRIDE AMONG HONG KONG PEOPLE BUT WOULD IN THE PROCESS MAKE HONG KONG AN EVEN MORE ATTRACTIVE TOURIST DESTIN£TION-

/HE CALLED

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBF- , 1987

16 -

HE CALLED ON THE GOVERNMENT TO KEEP HONG KONG AS INTERNATIONAL ORIENTED AND BILINGUAL SOCIETY WHERE CHINESE WAS THE LOCAL "LINGUA FRANCA" AND ENGLISH THE PRINCIPAL INTERNATIONAL MEDIUM OF COMMUNICATION WITH THE WORLD.

TURNING TO REDEVELOPING THE OLDER URBAN AREAS, MR CHEONG-LEEN SAID HE WELCOMED THE SETTING UP OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION TO IMPLEMENT SPECIFIC AND WELL DEFINED URBAN RENEWAL PROJECTS TN CO-OPERATION WITH THE PRIVATE SECTOR.

AS A NON-PROFIT MAKING BODY, THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION WOULD HAVE TO WORK OUT FAIR AND EQUITABLE COMPENSATION ARRANGEMENTS FOR THOSE AFFECTED, AS WELL AS ACCEPTABLE REHOUSING ARRANGEMENTS FOR TENANTS AND OWNERS DISPLACED BY REDEVELOPMENT PROJECTS.

ADEQUATE CHECKS AND BALANCES SHOULD BE PART OF THE PROCEDURES TO ENSURE THAT THE CORPORATION DID NOT ABUSE ITS EXTENSIVE POWERS, HF STRESSED.

"I LOOK FORWARD TO METROPLAN COMING UP WITH AMONG OTHER ASPECTS A COMPREHENSIVE AND REAL I STH’ DEVELOPMENT PLAN, INCLUDING A LIST OF PRIORITIES FOR RECLAMATION PROJECTS, SUCH AS BETWEEN CENTRAL AND WAN CHAI DISTRICTS, WITH POINTERS FOR MORE DETAILED DISTRICT PLANNING AND URBAN RENEWAL," HE SAID.

MR CHEONG-LEEN ALSO EXPRESSED CONCERN OVER THE DETER 10 UM INC URBAN SEWAGE SYSTEM. HE SAID IN MANY OF THE OLDER DISTRICTS, BLOCKING OR OVERSPILL OF THE SEWAGE SYSTEM OFTEN CAUSED BY TOO MANY RESTAURANTS BEING CONCENTRATED IN ONE OR TWO BUILDINGS, WAS ONE THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF COMPLAINT AND FRUSTRATION MULTI-STOREY BUILDING RESIDENTS.

ON THE SUBJECT OF SOCIAL SECURITY, MR CHEONG-LEEN SAID 1 । HEARTENING TO HEAR THAT THE ADMINISTRATION HAD BEEN PAYING PART I Cl MA: ATTENTION TO THE CONCERN EXPRESSED BY LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS ON THE WELFARE OF THE ELDERLY AND THE FINANCIAL SECURITY OF RETIRED PERSONS.

IN ORDER TO WIN THE HEARTS AND MINDS OF OUR WORKING POPULATION, HE URGED GOVERNMENT TO ACTIVELY MAINTAIN ITS DIALOGUE WITH THE AND CLARIFY EVEN FURTHER WHY IN ITS VIEW A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND WAS NOT SUITABLE FOR THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT.

MR CHEONG-LEEN ALSO ASKED FOR A CAREFUL REVIEW OF THE "FALSE NEWS" PROVISION IN SECTION 27 OF THE PUBLIC ORDER ORDINANCE. HE QUESTIONED IF IT WAS STILL WORTHWHILE RETAINING THE PROVISION, WAS AT PRESENT WORDED, IN HONG KONG'S LEGISLATION AS IT HAD RECEIVED HEAVY CRITICISM BOTH LOCALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY.

- 0----------

/17 .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 19H7

- 17 -

RESCUE PLAN FOR EXCHANGE CRITICISED * * * * *

THE RESPONSIBILITY TAKEN ON BY THE GOVERNMENT IN INJECTING BILLIONS OF DOLLARS TO STABILISE THE FUTURES EXCHANGE IS INCOMMENSURATE WITH THE DEGREE OF INFLUENCE THE GOVERNMENT HAD ON THE AFFAIRS OF THE EXCHANGE, THE HON RICHARD LAI SAID TODAY' (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE POLICY DEBATE, MR LAI SAID THAT .IF THE GOVERNMENT DEEMED THAT THE WELL-BEING OF THE STOCK AND THE FUTURES MARKETS WAS OF SUCH IMPORTANCE AS TO WARRANT THE USE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND, THEN IT WOULD INDEED BE DIFFICULT TO RECONCILE WITH THE LATITUDE EXTENDED TO THE STOCK EXCHANGE TN DETERMINING THE CLOSURE AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES OF THE EXCHANGES.

MR LAI SAJI) INVESTORS PLUNGED INTO THE MARKET AT THEIR OWN RISK; BROKERS TOOK UP CLIENTS AT THEIR OWN RISK; AND THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION CAME TO THE ARRANGEMENT AT ITS OWN RISK.

"BUT THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION HAD THE GOVERNMENT RESCUE PACKAGE TO FALL BACK ON; INSTITUTIONS ARE GUARANTEED TO GET THEIR FULL SHARE OF PROFITS WHILE ORDINARY INVESTORS ARE LEFT TO FACE BANKRUPTCY WITHOUT ASSISTANCE NOR SYMPATHY BECAUSE THEY MADE THE UNWISE DECISION," HE SAID.

THIS IRONY HAD GENERATED MUCH SUSPICION AS TO THE REAL PURPOSE OF USING THE EXCHANGE FUND, MR LAI SAID. HE QUESTIONED WHO WERE THE ACTUAL WINNERS IN THE RECENT STOCK MARKET CRISIS.

"I AM SURE THIS IS A QUESTION TO WHICH THE GENERAL PUBLIC WOULD LIKE TO KNOW THE ANSWER," HE SAID.

MR LAI WENT ON TO SAY THAT WHETHER THE CLOSURE OF THE STOCK EXCHANGE WAS RIGHT OR WRONG, IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN THE GOVERNMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY IN THE FIRST PLACE TO DETERMINE WHETHER TO SUSPEND TRADING OR NOT.

THE FACT THAT THE ADMINISTRATION MERELY AGREED TO GO ALONG WITH THE DECISION OF A SMALL GROUP OF PEOPLE WITH EXTENSIVE INTERESTS IN THE MARKETS WAS HARDLY CONVINI ING THAT IT WAS EQUIPPED OR PREPARED TO ASSUME THE COMMANDING ROLF IN A CRISIS.

HE ADDED THAT THE DECISION TO CLOSE THE STOCK MARKET FURTHER DEMONSTRATED THE DANGER UNDER WHICH HONG KONG WOULD BE PLACED IF WIi HAD A POLITICAL SYSTEM WHEREIN DECISIONS WERE MADE BY A SMALL GROUP Oh ELITES. THE GOVERNMENT, NOW AND BEYOND, MUST BE AU’’ < NOMOUS FOR IT TO DISCHARGE ITS ADMINISTRATIVE FUNCTIONS.

"IF THE PROPOSAL TO INSTALL A GRAND ELECTORAL COLLEGE WERE ADOPTED FOR OUR FUTURE POLITICAL SYSTEM, THE DECISIONS OF THE ECONOMIC ELITE WOULD NOT EVEN BE SUBJECT TO THE EFFECTIVE CHECKS BY AN INDEPENDENT GOVERNMENT," HE SAID.

AHE ONLY

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987 '

- 18 -

THE ONLY WAY TO SAFEGUARD THE INTEREST OF THE PUBLIC WAS TO HAVE A LEGISLATURE WHOSE MEMBERSHIP WAS DRAWN FROM THE BROAD BASE OF THE POPULACE, HE SAID.

HE SAID HE FIRMLY BELIEVED THAT ONLY WITH A LEGISLATURE WITH WIDESPREAD SUPPORT FROM AND PARTICIPATION BY THE POPULATION COULD THE ADMINISTRATION FACE THE CHALLENGES IN THE COMING YEARS WITH THE USUAL EFFECTIVENESS THAT HAD CHARACTERISED THE SUCCESS OF HONG KONG. THE BEST WAY TO ACHIEVE THIS WAS BY MEANS OF DIRECT ELECTIONS.

MR LAI SAID HE WAS HEARTENED BY THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION TO SET UP AN OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINTS. HIS FIRST IMPRESSION OF THE BILL WAS THAT IT PROVIDED QUITE ADEQUATE POWERS FOR THE COMMISSIONER TO CARRY OUT HIS DUTIES.

"HOWEVER, I HAVE RESERVATION ABOUT THE POLICE NOT BEING INCLUDED IN THE LIST OF DEPARTMENTS THAT THE COMMISSIONER COULD INVESTIGATE AND THE PROVISION THAT THE DECISIONS OF THE COMMISSIONER WILL BE FINAL," HE SAID.

TURNING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE, HE SAID THAT EXPERIENCE IN THE PAST SHOWED THAT HONG KONG COULD HAVE DONE MUCH BETTER IN PLANNING FOR NEW TOWNS AND FOR THE TRANSPORT NETWORK ESSENTIAL TO ANY METROPOLIS.

"I URGE THE GOVERNMENT TO PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO THE CO-ORDINATION OF VARIOUS SERVICES SO THAT THE PROBLEMS WE ENCOUNTERED IN NEW TOWNS LIKE THEN MUN, SHA TIN WOULD NOT BE REPEATED," HE SAID.

ON THE EXTENSION OF THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT TO URBAN AREAS, MR LAI SAID THAT SINCE THE ROUTES TO TSUEN WAN WOULD HAVE HIGHER PATRONAGE, THESE SHOULD BE GIVEN MORF WEIGHT TN THE DELIBERATION AS TO WHICH ROUTES TO EXPAND.

HE SAID THAT ANOTHER STATUTORY CORPORATION THAT HAD A POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR INFRASTRUCTURE WAS THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION.

"I AM OF THE VIEW THAT MEASURES TO SAFEGUARD THE INTERESTS Of OWNERS AND TENANTS INVOLVED IN REDEVELOPMENTS MUST NOT BE SACRIFICED TO FACILITATE A SHORTER REDEVELOPMENT PROCESS," HE SAID.

TURNING TO ENVIRONMENT, MR LAI SAID THAT INDUSTRIAL POLLUTANTS WERE JUST AS DAMAGING AS ANIMAL WASTE, IF NOT MORE SO. HE ADDED THAT THE GOVERNMENT MUST TACKLE ALL POLLUTION WITH THE SAME VIGOUR AND NOT BE SEEN AS FAVOURING ANY PARTICULR PARTY.

"THE ECONOMIC COSTS MAY BE HIGHER FOR INDUSTRIES TO TIDY Uf THEIR OPERATIONS, BUT THE SOCIAL COSTS OTHERWISE WOULD BE MUCH HEAVIER," HE SAID.

HE ALSO SAID THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD NOT COMMIT ITSELF TO SOCIAL PROGRAMMES WHICH HONG KONG MIGHT HAVE TROUBLE IMPLEMENTING IN LEAN YEARS.

------0-------- /19.................

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 19 -

GOOD PLANS NEED THOROUGH IMPLEMENTATION * * * * *

LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR THE HON CONRAD LAM SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THEORETICALLY GOOD PLANS AS OUTLINED BY THE GOVERNOR IN HIS POLICY SPEECH WOULD NEED A PROPER AND THOROUGH IMPLEMENTATION IN ORDER TO GET A SATISFACTORY RESULT.

SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE POLICY DEBATE, DR LAM NOTED THAT THE POLICY SPEECH HAI) POINTED OUT CORRECTLY THAT THE CONTINUANCE OF SOUND ADMINISTRATION WOULD DEPEND GREATLY ON THE MAINTENANCE OF A DEDICATED AND EFFICIENT CIVIL SERVICE.

"HOWEVER, YOU DID NOT TELL US HOW YOU WOULD HANDLE THOSE UNDEDICATED, INEFFICIENT AND SUB-STANDARD CIVIL SERVANTS AND HOW YOU WOULD STRENGTHEN THE SUPERVISION AND PROMOTE THE QUAL1TV OF THE STATUTORY ADVISORY COMMITTEES WHICH SERVE AS YOUR EYES AND EARS," HE SAID.

HE CITED AS AN EXAMPLE THE SCHOOL MEDICAL SERVICE BOARD WHICH INCURRED AN ANNUAL SUM OF $24 MILLIONS FROM THE PUBLIC FUND WITH 370,000 PARTICIPATING STUDENTS. HE SAID IT WAS UPON HIS APPOINTMENT TO THE BOARD THAT HE DISCOVERED THAT THE BOARD HAD NOT MET FOR EVEN ONCE IN A WHOLE YEAR.

HE QUESTIONED WHETHER THERE WAS ANY REAL VALUE FOR THE EXISTENCE OF SUCH "LIFELESS BOARDS". HE ALSO ASKED HOW MANY INACTIVE BOARDS WERE THERE IN HONG KONG AND HOW THE GOVERNMENT WOULD HANDLE THEM.

DR LAM SAID THAT THE RECENT SUSPENSION OF THE STOCK MARKET, APART FROM EXPOSING THE POOR QUALITY AND INCOMPETENCE OF SOME GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS IN HANDLING CRISIS, ALSO HIGHLIGHTED THE LONG EXISTING DRAWBACKS IN THE OPERATION AND SUPERVISORY SYSTEMS OF THE FINANCIAL MARKET.

THIS UPHEAVAL IN THE FINANCIAL MARKET CAN WELL SERVE AS A GOOD LESSON TO THOSE WHO HOLD THE VIEW THAT THE PRESENT SYSTEM HAS WORKED WELL TO MAKF HONG KONG A SUCCESS AND THINK THAT CHANGES ARE NOT NECESSARY.

"IF WE DO NOT MAKE SUITABLE ADJUSTMENT, INCLUDING DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988 IN OUR POLITICAL SYSTEM IN TIME, WE WOULD BE VERY UNWISE AND IRRESPONSIBLE," HF SAID.

DR LAM WENT ON TO SAY THAT AMONG THE GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS HE KNEW, MOST OF THEM WERE OF HIGH CALIBRE AND EFFICIENT. THEY DID, HOWEVER, HAVE A COMMON WEAKNESS: SUBJECTIVELY OVER-ZEALOUS IN DEFENDING THE POLICIES THEY HAD DRAWN UP.

/THEY WERE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 198?

- 20

THEY WERE OVER-CAUTIOUS ABOUT THE WELL-MEANT AND CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISMS AND SUGGESTIONS OF THOSE WHO WERE OUTSPOKEN ENOUGH TO CRITICISE GOVERNMENT POLICIES. FOR THIS REASON, MANY IMPORTANT CENTRAL POLICY ADVISORY COMMITTEES ARE NOT SUITABLY REPRESENTED.

HE CITED AS AN EXAMPLE LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR THE HON SZETO WAH. HE SAID MR SZETO WAS THE ONLY REPRESENTATIVE OF THE EDUCATION SECTOR ELECTED TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND YET WAS NEITHER APPOINTED A PLACE ON THE EDUCATION COMMISSION NOR THE BOARD OF EDUCATION.

’’THIS IS NOT ONLY A DRAIN OF TALENT BUT ALSO AN INSULT AND CONTEMPT TO THE ENTIRE EDUCATION SECTOR,” HE SAID.

HE SAID THAT IN FUTURE APPOINTMENTS TO ADVISORY BOARDS, CONSIDERATION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THE REPRESENTATIVENESS AND WILLINGNESS TO ACCEPT DISSENTING VIEWS OF THE MEMBERS.

’’ANY ATTEMPTS TO CUT OUT OPPOSITE OR DISSENTING VIEWS FROM THE MEETING, WHETHER UNDER THE PRETEXT OF ’HIGHER EFFICIENCY’, ’CONSENSUS’ OR ’AVOIDING CONFRONTATIONAL POLITICS’, ARE THE BEGINNING OF A RETROGRESSIVE MOVE AWAY FROM DEMOCRACY. THERE ARE ALSO THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS DICTATORSHIP.”

DR LAM NOTED THAT THE GOVERNOR, IN HIS POLICY SPEECH, HAD TALKED ABOUT THE DETERMINATION TO IMPLEMENT FULLY THE TERMS OF THE JOINT DECLARATION.

"YET YOU HAVE NOT TOLD US HOW THE BRITISH AND THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT WILL IMPLEMENT THE CONCEPTS OF ’A HIGH DEGREE OF AUTONOMY’ AND THE ’HONG KONG PEOPLE RULING HONG KONG’,” HE SAID.

HE NOTED THAT PRIOR TO AND AFTER THE PUBLICATION OF THE GREEN PAPER ON THE 1987 REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENTS IN REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT, THE CHINESE OFFICIALS REPEATEDLY MADE PUBLIC COMMENTS OPPOSING THE INTRODUCTION OF DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988 AND THIS HAD DIRECT INFLUENCE ON PUBLIC OPINIONS.

AT THE SAME TIME, BOTH THE BRITISH AND THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENTS KEPT SILENT ON THE ISSUE, GIVING THE IMPRESSION THAT THE MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION OF HONG KONG DURING THE TRANSITIONAL PERIOD WERE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT IN NAME ONLY, WHILE IN PRACTICE, THEY WERE UNDER THE CONTROL OF CHINA.

HE NOTED THAT AS RECENTLY STATED BY CHINESE OFFICIAL MR JI PENGFEI, THE FIRST CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION WOULD BE SELECTED THROUGH CONSULTATION.

’’THIS IS A UNILATERAL MOVE TO ELIMINATE THE POSSIBILITY OF SELECTING THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE BY ELECTION WHICH IS STATED IN THE SINO-RRTTISH JOINT DECLARATION,” HE SAID.

/THE DRAFT

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1?8?

- 21 -

THE DRAFT OF THE BASIC LAW HAD YET TO BE FINALISED AND A CONCLUSION HAD ALREADY BEEN REACHED. THE PROMISE OF A "HIGHLY AUTONOMOUS" HONO KONG APTER 1997 PERHAPS WAS ONLY A CASTLE IN THE AIR, HE SAID.

LAM ALSO NOTED THAT THE GOVERNOR, IN HIS POLICY SPEECH, HAD MENTION, 1) THE DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG INTO A SOCIETY WITH CONCERN FOR THE QUAI TY OF LIFE OF ALL ITS INHABITANTS.

'ING TO A THESIS ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE WRITTEN BY MR PAUL Di' HARWOOD OF THE UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA, THE QUALITY OF LIFE COMPRI Si 1 MANY ELEMENTS WHICH INCLUDED THE RIGHT OF THE FREE EXPRESSION. ELECTORAL RIGHTS AND THE RIGHT TO PARTICIPATION IN PUBLIC DECISION MAKING.

II SAID THE PUBLIC ORDER ORDINANCE AND THE FILM CENSORSHIP ORDINANCE, WHICH WERE PASSED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE LAST SESSION, WOULD OBVIOUSLY BRING ADVERSE EFFECTS TO THE QUALITY OF LIFE.

IN ORDER TO SAFEGUARD HUMAN RIGHTS, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD INTRODUf ;< AMENDMENTS TO THESE TWO ORDINANCES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, HE SAID.

HE ADDED THAT THE DELAY IN GIVING THE .PUBLIC THE RIGHT TO DIRECT ELECTIONS AND THE DECISION NOT TO INTRODUCE THE CENTRAL PROVIDI I FUND WERE AGAINST THE GOVERNOR'S WORDS ON "CONCERN FOR THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF ALL THE INHABITANTS".

TURNING TO THE PROVISION OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, DR LAM SAID THAT AS THE POPULATION STARTED TO AdE, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD STRENGTHEN ITS MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY.

WITH THE SETTING UP OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY, ITS ABILITY TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF OUR MEDICAL SERVICES WOULD HAVE TO DEPEND ON ADEQUATE FINANCIAL SUPPORT FROM THE GOVERNMENT AS WELL AS ON THE CALIBRE OF THE MEMBERS OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY AND ITS VARIOUS REGIONAL COMMITTEES, WHICH WAS A VITAL FACTOR IN DETERMINING THfc SUCCESS OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY.

REFERRING TO THE PROBLEM OF VIETNAMESE REFUGEES, DR LAM NOTED THAT AT PRESENT THERE WERE ABOUT 3,500 VR’S WHO HAD BEEN STRANDED IN HONG KONG FOR OVER FIVE YEARS.

HE SAID HONG KONG SHOULD FIND A PRACTICAL SOLUTION FOR THOSE WHO HAD NO CHANCES OF RESETTLEMENT OVERSEAS.

HE PROPOSED THAT HONG KONG SHOULD SET A TIME LIMIT, SAY FIVE, SEVEN OR TEN YEARS. UPON EXPIRY OF THIS PERIOD, THE REFUGEES SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO BE INTEGRATED INTO THE COMMUNITY.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

. M\ £W - 22 -

IMPORTANCE OF SOUND, HEALTHY ECONOMY STRESSED

* y

THERE ARE NO OTHER SUBJECTS OF GREATER IMPORTANCE THAN A SOUND, HEALTHY ECONOMY AND THE MAINTENANCE OF OUR FUTURE ECONOMIC GROWTH, THE HON ALLEN LEE SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ANNUAL ADDRESS ik LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR LEE SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION TO USE THE EXCHANGE FUND TO INJECT $2 BILLION INTO THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION OF THE FUTURES EXCHANGE ALONG WITH ANOTHER $2 BILLION FROM THE FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR WAS A MOVE WHICH WAS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY NOT ONLY TO UPHOLD OUR REPUTATION BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, TO SAFEGUARD HONG KONG AS A FINANCIAL CENTRE.

HE SAID THE UNPRECEDENTED DRASTIC PLUNGE OF THE HONG KONG STOCK MARKET AND THE FUTURES INDEX MARKET FOLLOWING THE COLLAPSE OF WORLD STOCK MARKETS HAD NOT BEEN PREDICTED NOR ANTICIPATED.

"THE EVENTS WHICH HAVE HAPPENED ARE REACTIONARY AND SOMETIMES TO THE EXTENT OF BEING UNCONTROLLABLE.

"HONG KONG'S REPUTATION AS BEING ONE OF THE WORLD’S MAJOR FINANCIAL CENTRES WAS ON THE BRINK OF BEING PERMANENTLY DAMAGED AND UNREPAIRABLE."

HOWEVER, MR LEE SAID THE INCIDENT HAD SHOWN THE FLEXIBILITY AND INGENUITY OF HONG KONG.

"OUR GOVERNMENT HAD TO TAKE THE LEAD TO ENABLE US TO PULL THROUGH, OR AT LEAST TO STABILISE OUR OWN MARKET, IN VIEW OF THE WORLDWIDE ECONOMIC CRISIS.

"I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT .GOVERNMENT’S DECISION IS CORRECT AND I SUPPORT IT WHOLE-HEARTEDLY." ’

MR LEE SAID WE WERE LIVING IN A EVER-CHANGING WORLD AND THE INCIDENT SHOWED US HOW VULNERABLE HONG KONG WAS.

"WE MUST ALWAYS BE PREPARED TO ACT AND REACT SWIFTLY TO PREVAILING CIRCUMSTANCES. THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT WE ' C DONE," HE SAID.

HE SAID HE WAS CONFIDENT IN HONG KONG AND IN 'HE LONGER TERM OUTLOOK OF HONG KONG’S ECONOMY. HOWEVER, WE MUS PREPARED TO

RESPOND AT ALL TIMES AS OUR ECONOMY WAS STILL HEAVILY INFLUENCED BY EXTERNAL FORCES BEYOND OUR CONTROL, HE ADDED.

"OUR GOVERNMENT MUST SHOW ITS LEADERSHIP IN THE PLANNING, EXECUTION, AND DECISION MAKING PROCESS IN ORDER FOR US TO GUARD AGAINST ANY FLUCTUATIONS WHICH MAY HAPPEN IN THE FUTURE."

MR LEE ALSO SPOKE ON THE AIRPORT PROJECT, INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, AND EDUCATION AND TRAINING.

/HE SAID

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1987

- 25 -

HE .SAID THE AIRPORT PROJECT WAS ONE OF IMPORTANT SIGNIFICANCE PARTICULARLY AS INTEREST HAD BEEN SHOWN BY THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN PARTICIPATING IN A NEW AIRPORT SCHEME.

HE SAID THE IMPLICATIONS OF BUILDING A NEW AIRPORT WERE WIDE-RANGING. "NOT ONLY DOES IT SHOW GOVERNMENT’S CONFIDENCE IN OUR FUTURE BIT IT ALSO ENHANCES OUR DETERMINATION \ND IMAGE AS AN INTERNATIONAL CITY."

HE SAID CAPITAL PROJECTS SUCH AS AN AIRPORT OFTEN HAD A LENGTHY DECISION MAKING PROCESS AND HE URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO QUICKEN ITS PACE AS THE NEED FOR A NEW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WOULD BE MORE PRESSING TN A YEAR OR TWO.

ON INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, NR LEE SAID OUR INDUSTRY WAS FACING INCREASING PROTECTIONISM AND COMPETITION AND WAS NARROWLY BASED.

"THERE IS NO QUESTION IN MV MIND THAT WE MUST MOVE UP-MARKET AND OUR FUTURE MUST BE MORE DEPENDENT ON KNOWLEDGE-BASED INDUSTRIES. A PROPOSAL TO SET UP A TECHNOLOGY" CENTRE SHOULD NOT BE DELAYED."

HE REITERATED THAT INDUSTRY WAS THE BACKBONE OF OUR ECONOMY AND WITHOUT A DETERMINED INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME, HONG KONG WOULD SUFFER IN THE LONG RUN.

AS REGARDS EDUCATION AND TRAINING, MR LEE SAID HE WAS GLAD TO SEE THE GOVERNMENT’S EFFORTS AND DETERMINATION IN THESE AREAS.

"1 SUPPORTED THE ESTABLISHMENT OF HONG KONG’S THIRD UNIVERSITY AND THE INCREASE OF THE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUDGET FOR OUR TERT I ARY EDUC<TI ON INSTITUTES.

"I WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE OF OUR YOUNG PEOPLE WHO ARE QUALIFIED TO ENTER UNIVERSITIES AND POLYTECHNICS BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO FURTHER THEIR EDUCATION."

HE SAID TO INVEST IN EDUCATION WAS AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE AND IT WAS THE BEST GUARANTEE THAT WE COULD HAVE.

MR LEE CONCLUDED BY SAYING THAT A SOUND AND HEALTHY ECONOMY MUST BE BASEL ON CONFIDENCE: BUSINESS CONFIDENCE AND CONFIDENCE IN THE GOVERNMENT I’* S ABILITY TO TAKE THE LEAD DURING A CRISIS AND IN THE GOVERNMENT’S FLEXIBILITY IN THE POLICY AND DECISION MAKING PROCESSES.

"I RECOGNISE THAT NO GOVERNMENT IS PERFECT BUT A GOOD GOVERNMENT IS RESPONSIBLE AND RESPONSIVE.

"JUDGING FROM HONG KONG’S PAST PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMIC’ SUCCESS, I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT IS A RESPONSIBLE AND RESPONSIVE GOVERNMENT."

MR LEE ADDED THAT HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT WITH THE COOPERATION OF BUSINESS, GOVERNMENT AND THE COMMUNITY AT LARGE, WE COULD TAKE UP THE CHALLENGES OF THE FUTURE.

-----0------

/&.....

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 24 -

APPROPRIATE TIME FOR SOME TAX RELIEF ♦ » ♦ » »

THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CONSIDER PROVIDING SOME RELIEF TO THOSE TAXPAYERS WHOSE ANNUAL INCOME FELL WITHIN THE RANGE OF $150,001 TO $400,000, THE HON STEPHEN CHEONG TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

’’THE LATEST STATISTICS SHOWS THAT TAXES COLLECTABLE FROM THESE TAXPAYERS (NUMBERING A TOTAL OF 77,581 PERSONS) AMOUNTED TO $2.56 BILLION REPRESENTING 44.98 PER CENT OF TOTAL COLLECTABLE SALARIES TAX. THE RELIEF IS PERHAPS LONG OVERDUE,’’ MR CHEONG SAID DURING THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS.

’’THESE TAXPAYERS GENERALLY OCCUPY POSITIONS AS OUR SECOND AND THIRD TIER EXECUTIVES IN BOTH OUR PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTORS. THEY ARE INDEED THE BACKBONE OF OUR SOCIETY NOW, AND WILL ONE DAY LEAD OUR SOU IETY.

"THE EXPENDITURE OUTLAYS OF THIS GROUP OF PEOPLE ARE HIGH IN RELATION TO THEIR DISPOSAL INCOME. IT HAS BEEN REALLY TOUGH FOR THEM TO ACHIEVE ANY REASONABLE DEGREE OF SAVINGS.

’’HENCE, AT A TIME WHEN THE GOVERNMENT’S COFFERS ARE LIKELY TO BE FLUSH WITH WINDFALL REVENUES TH IS YEAR, A MODICUM OF TAX RELIEF FOR THIS GROUP OF TAXPAYERS SHOULD COMMAND HIGH PRIORITY.

"EVEN IF THEIR TOTAL CONTRIBUT IONS WERE TO BE CUT BY 25 PER CENT, THIS WOULD ONLY COST THE GOVERNMENT APPROXIMATELY $500 MILLION PER. ANNUM. YET, THE INTANGIBLE MORALE BOOSTING EFFECT ON THESE PEOPLE WOULD BE SO TREMENDOUS THAT IT WOULD POSITIVELY CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS HONG KONG’S CONTINUED PROGRESS."

HOWEVER, MR CHEONG SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD BE CAUTIOUS IN ANY CONSIDERATION OF FURTHER TAX CUTS FOR THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY IN Till-: 1988-89 BUDGET AS A ONE-HALF PER CENT OR EVEN A ONE PER CENT REDUCTION IN CORPORATE PROFITS TAX WOULD NOT BE ENOUGH TO PROVIDE MUCH STIMULUS TO ECONOMIC ACTIVITY.

ON OTHER ISSUES, MR CHEONG SAID THE LONG-TERM STRATEGIES, AS PRESENTED BY THE GOVERNOR, CLEARLY DEMONSTRATED THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO WORKING RESPONSIBLY AND RESPONSIVELY FOR THE WELL-BEING OF HONG KONG.

HOWEVER, DESPITE THE SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS MADE ON MANY FRONTS HONG KONG STILL HAD TO ADDRESS A LOT OF PROBLEMS.

MUCH WORK STILL NEEDED TO BE DONE AND, TO BE SUCCESSFUL, ALL SL( Toh’S OF THE COMMON ITV HAD TO WORK TOGETHER WITH DEDICATION, RESOLUTION, PRAGMATISM, UNDERSTANDING AND, ABOVE ALL, WITH A SPIRIT OF COMPROMISE.

/"UNFORTUNATELY, WHILE........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 25 -

"UNFORTUNATELY, WHILE OUR POLITICAL SYSTEM IS EVOLVING IN A PERIOD OF SOME UNCERTAINTY, THERE IS A MARKED TENDENCY ON THE PART OF SOME PUBLIC FIGURES TO BOMBARD THE ADMINISTRATION WITH UNDUE CRITICISMS," MR CHEONG SAID.

"THE ACTIONS TAKEN BY OUR POLICY MAKERS HAVE FREQUENTLY BEEN UNDER ATTACK UNFAIRLY BY SUBJECTIVE INTERPRETATIONS BASED ON FAR-FETCHED AND SOMETIMES ERRONEOUS ASSUMPTIONS."

MR CHEONG SAID HE ACCEPTED THAT THIS WAS A PHENOMENON HONG KONG MIGHT HAVE TO PUT UP WITH AT THIS JUNCTURE OF ITS POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT. HOWEVER, A NOTE OF CAUTION NEEDED TO BE VOICED, HE ADDED.

"IN MY VIEW, SUCH PRACTICES, IF CARRIED ON FOR TOO LONG, WILL TEND TO BE UNSETTLING FOR OUR COMMUNITY.

"IT MAY ALSO BREED DISTRUST AND FRUSTRATION THAT WOULD HAVE A DAMAGING EFFECT ON THE MORALE AND EFFICIENCY OF OUR ABLE ADMINISTRATORS.

"OVER THE NEXT DECADE, IF WE ARE TO SUCCEED IN ACHIEVING THE TWIN GOALS OF STABILITY AND PROSPERITY, THE MORALE AND THE EFFICIENCY OF OUR CIVIL SERVICE MUST NOT BE DAMAGED IRRETRIEVABLY."

MR CHEONG SAID HONG KONG NEEDED AN EFFICIENT ADMINISTRATION, BACKED UP BY A BUSINESSLIKE LEGCO, TO IMPLEMENT POLICIES WITH PRAGMATISM, CONVICTION, AND WITH A SENSE OF CONTINUITY.

"IT IS WITH THIS IN MIND THAT I WOULD SINCERELY URGE BOTH OUR POLITICIANS AND ADMINISTRATORS TO TAKE CAUTION. WE HAVE ACHIEVED REASONABLE PROSPERITY BUT WE STILL HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO TO ACHIEVE LONG-TERM STABILITY."

HE SAID PETTY POSTURING COULD BECOME AN OBSTACLED TO THE ACHIEVEMENT OF DESIRED COMMON OBJECTIVES. "WE MUST WORK TOGETHER WITH MUTUAL TRUST AND PRAGMATISM IN TACKLING ALL THE IMPORTANT ISSUES BEFORE US."

TURNING TO OBSERVATIONS ON SPECIFIC ISSUES, MR CHEONG SAID THE CONTINUED HEALTH OF THE ECONOMY WAS THE KEY TO OUR FUTURE SUCCESS.

"INDEED, IF THE HEALTH OF OUR ECONOMY WERE TO BE JEOPARDISED, ALL THE RHETORIC IN THE WORLD WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO SATISFY THE REAL NEEDS AND EXPECTATIONS OF OUR CITIZENS," HE SAID.

HE ADDED THAT THE EVENTS WHICH HAD UNFOLDED OVER THE PAST TWO WEEKS HAD CLEARLY DEMONSTRATED HOW VULNERABLE HONG KONG COULD BE TO EXTERNAL FACTORS.

"OF THE PILLARS UNDERPINNING OUR ECONOMY, TWO MAJOR COMPONENTS - NAMELY, THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES AND THE FINANCIAL SERVICES -ARE ALMOST ENTIRELY ORIENTED TOWARDS EXTERNAL DEMAND."

MR CHEONG SAID THESE SECTORS COLLECTIVELY PROVIDED THE BULK OF JOB OPPORTUNITIES TO THE WORKFORCE AND IF HONG KONG WAS TO ACHIEVE LONG-TERM STABILITY IT COULD NOT ALLOW THESE VITAL COMPONENTS OF THE ECONOMY TO CONTRACT SUDDENLY. J

/"IT WAfl

WEDNESDAY, NOVJHBER 4, 1987

26 -

"IT WAS AGAINST THIS BACKGROUND THAT I FULLY APPLAUDED THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION TO DEPLOY THE EXCHANGE FUND IN UPHOLDING THE INTEGRITY AND LIQUIDITY OF OUR SECURITIES AND FUTURES MARKETS," HE SAID.

"NEVERTHELESS, SINCE 1980, FOR THE SAKE OF STABILISING HONG KONG, THE GOVERNMENT HAS HAD TO DEPLOY BILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN UPHOLDING THE INTEGRITY OF OUR MONETARY AND FINANCIAL SYSTEMS.

"DARE I SAY THAT IF A SIMILAR AMOUNT HAS BEEN SPENT IN SUPPORT OF INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, THE LONGER TERM BENEFITS TO HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL COMPETITIVENESS MIGHT BE EQUALLY GREAT, IF NOT GREATER."

MR CHEONG SAID IT WAS TRUE THAT, OVER THE PAST DECADE, THE IMPORTANCE OF THE FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR TO THE ECONOMY HAD GROWN STEADILY AND IT WOULD CONTINUE TO BE A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTOR TO FUTURE GROWTH.

"BUT, WHILE WE HAVE BEEN ABLE TO STABILISE THE SITUATION FOR THE MOMENT, THE GOVERNMENT MUST DRAW LESSONS FROM THIS UNFORTUNATE EPISODE. THE EXCHANGE FUND IS NOT INEXHAUSTIBLE AND SHOULD NOT ALWAYS REMAIN THE LENDER OF LAST RESORT.

"IF WE ARE TO AVOID THE TRAUMA OF THE RECENT PAST, WE MUST MOVE QUICKLY TO STRENGTHEN OUR SUPERVISORY SYSTEM AND INJECT INTO IT THE CAPACITY TO FORESEE PROBLEMS."

INSOFAR AS OUR ECONOMIC PROSPECTS WERE CONCERNED, MR CHEONG SAID HE WAS NOT TOO CONFIDENT OF THE NEXT TWO OR THREE YEARS.

"SOME MAY ARGUE THAT OUR ECONOMIC INDICATORS HAVE BEEN SUFFICIENTLY POSITIVE AND THAT, GIVEN OUR RECORD OF PERFORMANCE IN THE LAST TWO YEARS, WE MAY LOOK FORWARD TO A REASONABLE RATE OF GROWTH TN 1988.

"I WOULD CAUTION AGAINST SUCH OPTIMISM. IN THE FIRST PLACE, THE WORLD FINANCIAL SCENE IS LIKELY TO REMAIN UNSETTLED FOR SOME CONSIDERABLE TIME. THIS MAY EVEN LEAD TO A PERIOD OF, AT BEST, A MILD RECESSION IN THE FUTURE.

"SECONDLY, PRACTICALLY ALL THE OUTPUT OF OUR MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES ARE REPRESENTED BY CONSUMER GOODS. THE ULTIMATE SUCCESS IN OUR SALE OF SUCH PRODUCTS IN THE WORLD MARKETS IS VERY MUCH DEPENDENT ON THE LEVEL OF DEMAND IN THOSE MARKETS, ESPECIALLY DURING THE CHRISTMAS SEASON.

"THE POSSIBLE CONTRACTION OF DEMAND AS A RESULT OF THE TRAUMA THAT PEOPLE HAVE EXPERIENCED WORLDWIDE WILL AFFECT US ADVERSELY. ALREADY THERE ARE SIGNS THAT THE ORDERS HAVE BEEN SLOWING DOWN. I EXPECT THEM TO SLOW DOWN EVEN FURTHER."

MR CHEONG SAID AGAINST THIS BACKGROUND, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD SPEND WISELY AND CONTINUE TO EXERCISE TIGHT BUDGETARY CONTROL PARTICULARLY IN RESPECT OF THOSE SERVICES PROGRAMMES WHICH DID NOT DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY PROMOTE EXTERNAL COMPETITIVENESS.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 27 -

REVIEW WILL HELP RESTORE CONFIDENCE

* » » »

THE REVIEW OF FINANCIAL MARKETS AS PROMISED BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SHOULD BE MADE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, THE HON PETER POON SAID'IN THE LEGISLATIVE.COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

"A CRITICAL INVESTIGATION WOULD IDENTIFY WEAKNESSES AND SHOULD ALSO SUGGEST WHAT SHOULD BE DONE TO REVAMP THESE MARKETS AND RESTORE THE CONFIDENCE OF OUR OWN AND FOREIGN INVESTORS AND TRY TO PREVENT SUCH COLOSSAL MARKET CRASHES IM THE FUTURE," MR POON SAID DURING THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS.

HE SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD IDENTIFY THE DEFECTS IN MANAGEMENT, REGULATIONS, AND LEGISLATION OF THE STOCK AND FUTURES EXCHANGES AND STUDY WHETHER, IN THE LIGHT OF BITTER EXPERIENCE, GREATER CONTROL SHOULD BE EXERCISED ON SUCH MARKETS. HOWEVER, "REGULATION" SHOULD NOT AMOUNT TO "STRANGULATION".

WHILE STRESSING THAT MORE RESOURCES SHOULD BE ALLOCATED TO THE REGULATORY AUTHORITIES, MR POON SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CONTINUE TO PRESS AHEAD WITH LEGISLATION ON DISCLOSURE OF SHAREHOLDINGS AND TO SPEED UP INTRODUCTION OF MEASURES AGAINST INSIDER DEALING.

MR POON BACKED THE STEPS TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT TO UPHOLD THE STOCK AND FUTURES MARKETS AND THE STANDING OF HONG KONG AS A FINANCIAL CENTRE.

HE SAID: "THE CRASH IN THE WORLD STOCK MARKETS, THE WORST SINCE 1929, HIT US HARD. DURING THESE CRITICAL TIMES, THE GOVERNMENT HAD THE UNPLEASANT CHOICE THAT UNLESS IT TOOK SWIFT ACTION TO SAVE THE FUTURES MARKET, ITS COLLAPSE WOULD HAVE ENORMOUS AND FAR-REACHING REPERCUSSIONS ON OUR STOCK MARKET, FINANCIAL SECTOR, THE STRENGTH OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR AND THE CREDIBILITY OF HONG KONG AS A FINANCIAL CENTRE.

"VARIOUS DECISIONS TAKEN MAY NOT APPEAR TO BE DESIRABLE TO SOME BUT THE IMPORTANT QUESTION IS WHETHER THEY WERE NECESSARY.

"OUR IMMEDIATE CONCERN IS, HOWEVER, TO RESCUE FIRST AS MANY PASSENGERS AND CREW OF OUR SHIP FROM A BAD STORM BEFORE WE CONDUCT AN ENQUIRY AS TO WHAT WENT WRONG, WHETHER ANYONE SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE AND THE LESSONS TO BE LEARNT."

NOTING THAT PUBLIC FINANCES WERE IN VERY SOUND SHAPE AND ECONOMIC GROWTH WAS STILL HIGH, MR POON SAID HE BELIEVED HONG KONG COULD SURVIVE THE PREVAILING ECONOMIC STORM WITH THE LEAST POSSIBLE DAMAGE AS LONG AS PEOPLE REMAINED CALM AND SENSIBLE AND DID NOT PANIC.

NEVERTHELESS, MR POON ALSO SAID PEOPLE MUST NOT BE COMPLACENT WITH THE SOUND STATE OF HONG KONG’S ECONOMY AS IT HAD ITSELF BROUGHT VARIOUS PROBLEMS. THE FIRST PROBLEM HE CITED WAS A LABOUR SHORTAGE WHICH, HE SAID, STEMMED FROM THE TREMENDOUS GROWTH IN INDUSTRIAL OUTPUT.

/ON THE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 198?

, ON THE SHORTAGE OF LABOUR IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR, HE BELIEVED THAT RAISING WAGES ALONE WOULD NOT ATTRACT MORE PEOPLE. "THE SOLUTION IS IN GOING FOR MORE AUTOMATION OR UP-MARKET AND TO DEVELOP FEWER LABOUR-INTENSIVE INDUSTRIES," HE OBSERVED.

"THE QUESTION OF 'IMPORTED LABOUR’ HAS TO BE DEALT WITH VERY CAREFULLY BECAUSE IT WOULD DISRUPT LOCAL LABOUR RELATIONS AND MAY GIVE PRETEXT TO OTHER COUNTRIES WISHING TO IMPOSE PROTECTIONISM UPON US. • ,l;, .

> i 4f,'< ■

"HOWEVER, IF THERE ARE LARGE NEW PROJECTS SUCH AS A NEW AIRPORT, CONSIDERATION MAY BE GIVEN TO THIS SUGGESTION SUBJECT TO VERY STRINGENT SAFEGUARDS SUCH AS AN ASSURANCE THAT SUCH WORKERS CAN ONLY WORK IN HONG KONG FOR A SPECIFIED PERIOD OF TIME AND--. MUST LEAVE HONG KONG AFTER THE COMPLETION OF THE PROJECT," MR POON SAID.

AS TO EMPLOYMENT IN THE SERVICE SECTOR, MR POON FELT THAT, THE PROBLEM LAY NOT SO MUCH IN THE GREAT SHORTAGE IN NUMBERS AS IN EMPLOYEES’ UNWILLINGNESS TO WORK FOR AN EMPLOYER FOR A SUBSTANTIAL PERIOD OF TIME OR TO WORK OVERTIME. "OUR MAIN AIM MUST AT ALL TIMES BE TO IMPROVE THE PRODUCTIVITY OF OUR WORKERS AND EMPLOYEES DESPITE THEIR FINE TRACK RECORD," HE SAID. ' , ' "

A SECOND PROBLEM HIGHLIGHTED BY MR POON ' WAS TRADE '

PROTECTIONISM IN THE UNITED STATES.

"PROTECTIONISM WILL CREATE TRADE RETALIATION AND CONFLICT AND WILL THROW THE WORLD INTO DEPRESSION. HONG KONG, BEING. A FREE TRADE \ TERRITORY, SHOULD CONTINUE I^TS EFFORTS' TO FIGHT AGAINST ANY SUCH PROPOSED MEASURES," HE SAID.

ON THE QUESTION OF INFLATION, MR POON SAID HONG KONG COULD TOLERATE AN INFLATION RATE OF SIX TO EI<HT PER CENT IF A GDP GROWTH OF 12 PER CENT COULD BE ATTAINED. HE SUPPORTED THE RETENTION OF THE "LINKED EXCHANGE SYSTEM" EVEN THOUGH IT riEANT THAT AS; THE US DOLLAR WEAKENED, HONG KONG’S INFLATION RATE WOULD GO UP.

MR POON ALSO SAID THAT REFORMS IN THE TRIAL OF COMPLEX COMMERCIAL CRIMES WAS AN AREA WHICH DESERVED URGENT ATTENTION. NOTING THAT UNDER THE PRESENT SYSTEM, THE TRIALS WERE LONG AND VERY EXPENSIVE AND AT TIMES EVEN UNFAIR TO THE PROSECUTION OR THE ACCUSED, ’HE HOPED THAT PROPER LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE THE TRIAL OF COMPLEX

COMMERCIAL CRIMES COULD BE INTRODUCED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

ON TAXATION, HE NOTED THAT MOST OF THE BURDEN OF DIRECT TAX TN HONG KONG FELL ON A RELATIVELY SMALL PROPORTION OF TAXPAYERS. "THE BURDEN ON THE MIDDLE CLASS IS PARTICULARLY HEAVY AND I SUGGEST GOVERNMENT SHOULD LOOK INTO THIS PROBLEM AND SEE WHETHER SUCH A SITUATION CAN BE ALLEVIATED," HR SAID.

/HE SAW

WETNESDAY, N0VB4BER 4, 1987

- 29 -

WOMEN WIFE NOR

HE SAW A STRONG CASE FOR SEPARATE TAXATION FOR MARRIED AS THIS MIGHT HELP TO RELIEVE THE LABOUR SHORTAGE. A WORKING ALLOWANCE WOULD NEITHER INVOLVE HIGH ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS rZS ™E SIMPLE TAX STRUCTURR AND SHOULD BE SERIOUSLY vz VPl o J U c, K E» Iz • 9

ON THE MANAGEMENT OF PUBLIC FINANCE, MR POON AGREED GOVERNMENT SHOULD PLAY THE ROLE OF A ’’PRUDENT HOUSEKEEPER WELCOMED THE INTRODUCTION OF THE RESOURCE ALLOCATION IMPROVE THE GOVERNMENT’S LONG-TERM FINANCIAL PLANNING.

THAT " AND SYSTEM

THE HE TO

SUMMING UP, MR POON SAID THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY PROVIDED A CLEAR PICTURE OF FURTHER IMPROVEMENT IN THE LIFE AND TN PROVIDING BETTER FACILITIES FOR EVERYONE.

SPEECH HAD

QUALITY OF

HK NEEDS TO DIVERSIFY EXPORT MARKETS ♦ ♦ * ♦

FUTURE PROSPECTS FOR HONG KONG EXPORTERS WILL DEPEND ON THEIR ABILITY TO FURTHER DIVERSIFY MARKETS AS THE PROPENSITY OF THE UNITED STATES, HONG KONG’S MAJOR MARKET, TO IMPORT MAY BE CONSTRAINED, DR THE HON KIM CHAM SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

DR CHAM MADE THIS COMMENT WHEN SPEAKING ABOUT ECONOMIC RELATIONS BETWEEN HONG HONG AND THE UNITED STATES DURING THE POLICY DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

HE SAID MANY PEOPLE ATTRIBUTED THE PRESENT WORLD ECONOMIC DIFFICULTIES TO THE UNITED STATES’ SIZEABLE BUDGETARY AND TRADE DEFICITS. BUT THERE WAS UNCERTAINTY WHETHER NARROWING THE BUDGETARY DEFICITS OF THE U.S. WOULD, IN EFFECT, ACHIEVE A STATE OF WORLD ECONOMIC STABILITY.

REDUCING THE DEFICITS MIGHT WELL LEAD TO A MORE STABLE U.S. DOLLAR BUT IT MIGHT NOT NECESSARILY CONSTITUTE AN IMPETUS FOR FURTHER GROWTH OF THE U.S. ECONOMY, DR CHAM SAID.

"IF THAT IS THE CASE, THE GROWTH OF THE U.S. ECONOMY WILL REMAIN LIMITED. THIS, IN TURN, WILL TEND TO AFFECT GROWTH OF THE WORLD ECONOMY AT LARGE," HE SAID.

"INASMUCH AS THE HONG KONG DOLLAR IS PEGGED TO THE U.S. DOLLAR, THE HONG KONG ECONOMY MAY REAP SOME BENEFITS.

"THE CRUX OF THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE PROPENSITY OF THE U.S. TO IMPORT MAY THUS BE CONSTRAINED. HONG KONG, WITH ONE-THIRD OF ITS EXPORTS GOING TO THE U.S., WILL BE SUBJECTED TO THIS CONSTRAINT.

/•’THEREFORE, THE

wombm*, wwmBER 1987

- 30 -

’’THEREFORE, THE FUTURE PROSPECT FOR HONG KONG EXPORTERS WILL DEPENp ON THEIR ABILITY TO FURTHER DIVERSIFY THE EXPORT MARKET.”

DR CHAM ALSO SAID THAT ONLY IN THE SHORT-TERM WOULD HONG KONG BENEFIT FROM A STABLE AND RELATIVELY LOWER RATE OF CURRENCY EXCHANGE. IN THE LONG RUN, FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF EXPORTS AND INDUSTRIES WOULD HINGE MAINLY ON TECHNOLOGICAL PROGRESS.

HE SAID IT WAS SENSIBLE FOR HONG KONG TO CONCENTRATE ON ADAPTATION OF INNOVATIVE ACTIVITIES AND GREATER EFFORT SHOULD BE MADE TOWARDS SPEEDING UP THIS PROCESS.

”IT WOULD PUT THE HONG KONG ECONOMY ON A MORE ADVANTAGEOUS POSITION VIS-A-VIS ITS EXPORT COMPETITORS SO THAT IN THE LONGER RUN, HONG KONG INDUSTRIES WILL BE ON A MORE CONCRETE FOUNDATION.”

DR CHAM SAID IT WAS ENCOURAGING THAT HONG KONG WAS ENJOYING FULL EMPLOYMENT AT PRESENT.

THERE HAD BEEN A TREMENDOUS GROWTH IN EXPORTS AND, IF THIS HEALTHY GROWTH WAS TO BE SUSTAINED, HONG KONG MUST STRENGTHEN ITS INDUSTRIAL CAPABILITY BY DEVOTING MORE EFFORT TO ENCHANCING ITS ’’HUMAN CAPITAL”.

HE URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO DEVISE WAYS AND MEANS OF MINIMISING THE OUTFLOW OF PRECIOUS HUMAN RESOURCES.

DR CHAM SAID THE ESSENCE OF ECONOMIC GROWTH WAS TO PROMOTE ECONOMIC WELFARE OF THE PEOPLE AND HENCE IMPROVE THEIR STANDARD OF LIVING.

GIVEN THIS OVER-RIDING OBJECTIVE, HONG KONG MUST DO EVERYTHING FEASIBLE TO NUTURE THIS GROWTH, INCLUDING PRESERVING FREE TRADE.

-----0------

AVOID ANY STRESS WHICH REDUCES CONFIDENCE ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

ANY STRESS WHICH MIGHT REDUCE BUSINESS CONFIDENCE IN HONG KONG’S FUTURE SHOULD BE AVOIDED AS FAR AS POSSIBLE, THE HON THOMAS CLYDESDALE SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE POLICY DEBATE, MR CLYDESDALE SAID THAT IF HONG KONG WAS TO CONTINUE TO BE DEVELOPED AS A GENUINE AND SUBSTANTIAL CENTRE FOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL OPERATIONS, IT COULD NOT AFFORD TO PERMIT THE KIND OF ACTIONS IN THE OPERATION OF THE FUTURES AND STOCK EXCHANGES WHICH HAD RECENTLY BROUGHT EXTENSIVE INTERNATIONAL CRITICISM AND OPPROBRIUM.

/"WE SIMPLY........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 31 -

"WE SIMPLY MUST RECOGNISE THAT IF WE AKE TO BE PART OF AN INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM THEN WE MUST PLAY BY INTERNATIONAL RULES," HE SA 11).

HE SAID THE PROPOSED COMMITTEE OF INQUIRY WHICH WAS I'O EXAMINE THE NEED FOR BETTER OPERATION AND REGULATION Ol Till EXCHANGES SHOULD BE ASKED TO GET ON WITH ITS WORK URGENTLY AND WI I II Till NECESSARY' TERMS OF REFERENCE AND POWERS TO CARRY OUT A ROOT YNI) BRANCH STUDY.

"IT IS INTOLERABLE THAT WE SHOULD CONTINUE I'O FIND THE NEED FOR IMPROVEMENTS ONLY WHEN DISASTERS OCCUR," HE SAID.

HE ADDED THAT IN VIEW OF' RECENT EVENTS, HE WOULD YLSO SUGGEST THAT A RE-EXAMINATION BE CARRIED OUT OF THE TRIE BENEFITS FOR HONG KONG ARISING OUT OF THE OPERATION OF AN INDEX FUTURES EXCHANGE.

HI SAID THE FUTURES EXCHANGE WAS CLEARLY AN INSTRUMENT REQUIRING THE PARTICIPATION OF SPECULATORS IN THE I DLL SENSE OF THE WORD.

"THAT BEING SO, I HAVE No DOUBT THAT THE RI LES APPLYING TO THE EXCHANGE AND PART ICULARLY TO THE ADMISSION OF BROKERS, AND TO LIQUIDITY AND MARGIN REQUIRMENTS MUST BE PRUDENT YND CAPABLE OF BEING APPLIED," HE SAID.

HE SAID HE FOUND IT EXTRAORDINARY THAT AN EXCHANGE WHICH HAD SO FAR SEEN A VERY LIMITED LIFE SHOULD YI.READY HYVF REQUIRED THE GOVERNMENT TO BAIL IT OUT WITH A POSSIBLE COMMITMENT OF ONE TO IWO BILLION DOLLARS PROVIDED FROM PUBLIC FUNDS.

"WHY SHOULD THE TAXPAYER FOOT THIS PARTICULAR BILL WHAT REAL BENEFIT HAS THIS FUTURES EXCHANGE PROVIDED FOR Till ECONOMY AND CAN THIS BE QUANTIFIED?" HE ASKED.

TURNING TO THE ECONOMY, MR CLYDESDALE SAID THAT A MAJOR STI DY SHOULD BE CARRIED OUT, PREFERABLY BY REPUTABLE INTERNATIONA! CONSULTANTS, ON THE PRESENT POSITION OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMY, IIS STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES, ITS POTENTIAL FOR GROW I II IN VARIOUS SECTORS, THE PROBLEMS IT FACED AND PERHAPS SOME OF HIE SOU LIONS WHICH MIGHT OVERCOME THE PROBLEMS.

HE NOTED THAT A STUDY ON I HF SCALF HI MENTIONED HAD BEEN PROPOSED BY A GROUP OF BUSINESSMEN AND INDUSTRIALISTS, SUPPORTED BY THE HONG KONG GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERI I YND HIE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNUIL.

A DETAILED PROPOSAL HAD BIEN OBTAINED FROM ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANCY ORGANISATIONS AND IT W YS (LEAR THAT, GIVEN GOVERNMENT CONCURRENCE, THE DETAILED STUDY COULD BEGIN SOON. THE COST WOULD BE PROVIDED FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR Bl T GOVERNMENT SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT WAS CLEARLY NECESSARY.

/HE ADDED

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 32 -

HE ADDED THAT IN THE LIGHT OF THE POTENTIAL IMPORTANCE OF SUCH A STUDY TO THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL PROGRAMME OUTLINED IN THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH, THIS STUDY SHOULD NOW GO AHEAD.

ON THE QUESTION OF A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND, HE SAID THAT HIS CONSTITUENCY WAS AGAINST THE IDEA, AS WERE MANY OTHER EMPLOYERS ORGANISATIONS.

"HOWEVER, WE HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THERE MUST BE A CONTINUAL AND REAL IMPROVEMENT IN OUR SOCIAL SE(?URTT> SYSTEM AND WE HAVE SUGGESTED THAT ONE OF THE STEPS WHICH SHOULD EVENTUALLY RE TAKEN IS THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NON MEANS TESTED OLI) AGE PENSION AT THE AGE OF 65, FOR ALL QUALIFIED RESIDENTS OF HONG KONG," HE SAID.

HE ADDED THAT THERE SHOULD ALSO BE A PUBLICLY DECLARED INTENTION TO MOVE FROM PUBLIC ASSISTANCE, THAT IS OLD AGE ALLOWANCE, TO THE GRANTING OF AN OLD AGE PENSION BY RIGHT FOR ALL QUALIFIED PERSONS OF 65 OR OVER.

"ON A PHASED BASIS, WE SHOULD HAVE THE FINANCIAL MEANS TO PROVIDE SUCH SECURITY TO THE PEOPLE WHOSE TOIL HAS CONTRIBUTED SO MUCH TO OUR ECONOMY AND I CAN SEE NO REASON FOR SERIOUS DELAY IN ITS IMPLEMENTATION," HE SAID.

---------------------0 ------- INTEGRITY IN FINANCIAL MARKETS IS ESSENTIAL *****

HONG KONG’S PROSPERITY CAN ONLY BE SAFEGUARDED BY STRONG AND RESPECTED LEADERSHIP AND DEMONSTRATED INTEGRITY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF FINANCIAL MARKETS, THE HON DAVID K.P. LI SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ANNUAL ADDRESS, MR LI SAID THESE WERE CRUCIAL ELEMENTS IN REGAINING FOR HONG KONG THE CONFIDENCE AND CREDIBILITY OF 'HIE REST OF THE WORLD.

HE SAID THE EVENTS OF THE PAST TWO WEEKS HAD SHOWN GOVERNMENT AT ITS INEFFECTIVE WORST.

"AT A TIME WHEN THE COLLAPSE OF THE LOCAL SECURITIES MARKETS INDICATED A NEED FOR MAJOR SURGERY, GOVERNMENT WAS SEEN TO BE RUNNING ROUND STICKING ON BAND AIDS."

MR LI SAID EFFORTS TO PROMOTE HONG KONG AS A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE AND FREE MARKET HAD NOW BEEN SEVERELY COMPROMISED WHEN, AT A TIME WHEN ALL THE OTHER WORLD MARKETS REMAINED OPEN, HONG KONG WAS CLOSED FOR FOUR DAYS.

/’’THROUGHOUT THIS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

"WE SIMPLY MUST RECOGNISE THAT IF WE ARE IO BE PART OF AN INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM THEN WE MUST PLAY BY INTERNATIONAL RULES.” HE SAID.

HE SAID THE’ PROPOSED COMMITTEE OF INQUIRY WHICH WAS TO EXAMINE THE NEED FOR BETTER OPERATION AND REGULATION OF THE EXCHANGES SHOULD

BE ASKED TO GET ON WITH ITS WORK URGENTLY AND WITH THE NECESSARY

TERMS OF REFERENCE AND POWERS TO CARRY OUT A ROOT AND BRANCH STUDY.

”IT IS INTOLERABLE THAT WE SHOULD CONTINUE TO FIND THE NEED

FOR IMPROVEMENTS ONLY WHEN DISASTERS OCCUR,” HE SAID.

HE ADDED THAT IN VIEW OF RECENT EVENTS, HE WOULD ALSO SUGGEST THAT A RE-EXAMINATION BE CARRIED OUT OF THE TRUE BENEFITS FOR HONG KONG ARISING OUT OF THE OPERATION OF AN INDEX FUTURES EXCHANGE.

HE SAID THE FUTURES EXCHANGE WAS CLEARLY AN INSTRUMENT REQUIRING THE PARTICIPATION OF SPECULATORS TN THE FULL SENSE OF THE WORD.

"THAT BEING SO, I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THE RULES APPLYING TO THE EXCHANGE AND PARTICULARLY TO THE ADMISSION OF BROKERS, AND TO LIQUIDITY AND MARGIN REQUIRMENTS MUST BE PRUDENT AND CAPABLE OF BEING APPLIED,” HE SAID.

HE SAID HE FOUND IT EXTRAORDINARY THAT AN EXCHANGE WHICH HAD SO FAR SEEN A VERY LIMITED LIFE SHOULD ALREADY HAVE REQUIRED THE GOVERNMENT TO BAIL IT OUT WITH A POSSIBLE COMMITMENT OF ONE TO TWO BILLION DOLLARS PROVIDED FROM PUBLIC FUNDS.

"WHY SHOULD THE TAXPAYER FOOT THIS PARTICULAR BILL? WHAT REAL BENEFIT HAS THIS FUTURES EXCHANGE PROVIDED FOR THE ECONOMY AND CAN THIS BE QUANTIFIED?” HE ASKED.

TURNING TO THE ECONOMY, MR CLYDESDALE SAID THAT A MAJOR STUDY SHOULD BE CARRIED OUT, PREFERABLY BY REPUTABLE INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANTS, ON THE PRESENT POSITION OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMY, ITS STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES, ITS POTENT1 Al FOR GROWTH IN VARIOUS SECTORS, THE PROBLEMS IT FACED AND PERHAPS SOME OF THE SOLUTIONS WHICH MIGHT OVERCOME THE. PROBLEMS.

HF. NOTED THAT A STUDY ON THE SCALE HE MENTIONED HAD BEEN PROPOSED BY A GROUP OF BUSINESSMEN AND INDUSTRIALISTS, SUPPORTED BY THE HONG KONG GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND THE HONG KONG PRODUCT!VTTY COUNCJL.

A DETAILED PROPOSAL HAD BEEN OBTAINED FROM ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANCY ORGANISATIONS AND IT WAS CLEAR THAT, GIVEN GOVERNMENT CONCURRENCE, THE DETAILED STUDY COULD BEGIN SOON. THE COST WOULD BE PROVIDED FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR BUT GOVERNMENT SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT WAS CLEARLY NECESSARY.

/HE ADDED

WEDNESDAY,. NOVEMBER k, 1^87

- 32 -

HE ADDED THAT IN THE LIGHT OF THE POTENTIAL IMPORTANCE OF SUCH A STUDY TO THE JECONOMIC AND SOCIAL PROGRAMME OUTLINED IN THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEtCH, THIS STUDY SHOULD NOW GO AHEAD.

ON THE QUESTION OF A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND, HE SAID THAT HIS CONSTITUENCY WAS,AGAINST THE IDEA, AS WERE MANY OTHER EMPLOYERS ORGANISATIONS.

’’HOWEVER, WE HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THERE MUST BE A CONTINUAL AND REAL IMPROVEMENT IN OUR SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM AND WE HAVE SUGGESTED THAT ONE OF THE STEPS WHICH SHOULD EVENTUALLY BE TAKEN IS THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NON MEANS TESTED OLI AGE PENSION AT THE AGE OF 65, FOR ALL QUALIFIED RESIDENTS OF HONG KONG,” HE SAID.

"ON A PHASED BASIS, WE SHOULD HAVE THE FINANCIAL MEANS TO PROVIDE SUCH SECURITY TO III!' PEOPLI WHOSE TOIL HAS CONTRIBUTED SO MUCH TO OUR ECONOMY AND I CAN SEE NO REASON FOR SERIOUS DELAY IN ITS IMPLEMENTATION,” HE SAID.

-------0----------

INTEGRITY IN FINANCIAI MARKETS IS ESSENTIAL ; *****

HONG KONG’S PROSPERITY CAN ONLY BE SAFEGUARDED BY STRONG AND RESPECTED LEADERSHIP AND DEMONSTRATED INTEGRITY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF FINANCIAL MARKETS, THF HON DAVID K.P. LI SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ANNUAL ADDRESS, MR LI SAID THESE WERE CRUCIAL ELEMENTS IN REGAINING FOR HONG KONG THE CONFIDENCE AND CREDIBILITY OF THE REST OF THF WORLD.

HE SAID THF. EVENTS OF THE PASI TWO WEEKS HAD SHOWN GOVERNMENT AT ITS INEFFECTIVE WORST.

"AT A TIME WHEN THF COLLAPSE OF THE LOCAL SECURITIES MARKETS INDICATED A NEED FOR MAJOR SURGERY, GOVERNMENT WAS SEEN TO BE RUNNING ROUND STICKING ON BAND AIDS.”

r' MR LI SAID EFFORTS TO PROMOTE HONG KONG AS A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE AND FREE MARKET HAD NOW BEEN SEVERELY COMPROMISE!) WHEN, AT A TIME WHEN ALI THE OTHER WORLD MARKETS REMAINED OPEN, HONG KONG WAS CLOSED FOR FOUR DAYS.

/’’THHOUGHOUT THIS.........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 35 -

HE SAID HE ENDORSED THE GOVERNMENT’S PLAN TO SPEND AN EXTRA $3 BILLION OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS TO BETTER THE SOCIAL WELFARE PROGRAMME, ALTHOUGH IT WAS, AFTER ALL, ONLY ONE AND A HALF TIMES THE MONEY THAT HAD BEEN SPENT IN 48 HOURS ON RESCUING THE HONG KONG FUTURES GUARANTEE CORPORATION.

MR LI ALSO SAID THAT DESPITE THE TURBULENT STATE OF HONG KONG’S SECURITIES MARKETS, THE FUNDAMENTALS OF THE ECONOMY REMAINED STRONG.

"ALTHOUGH THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR IS CLOUDED BY INFLATION AND A SHORTAGE OF LABOUR, THIS IS CURRENTLY THE PRICE FOR OUR COMMITMENT TO A STABLE EXCHANGE RATE FOR THE HONG KONG CURRENCY.

"UNDER THE LINKED EXCHANGE RATE REGIME, OUR ECONOMY HAS TO RESPOND TO EXTERNAL CHANGES THROUGH INTERNAL ADJUSTMENT OF COSTS AND PRICES. INFLATION AND LABOUR SHORTAGE, THOUGH UNDERSIRABLE, PROVIDE THE NECESSARY ADJUSTMENT MECHANISMS FOR OUR EXPORT-LED ECONOMIC BOOM.

"I PREFER TO SEE THESE PROBLEMS BEING RESOLVED BY MARKET FORCES RATHER T-HAN GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION."

MR LI SAID THAT TO CONTEND WITH MOUNTING PROTECTIONISM, HONG KONG MUST UPGRADE ITS INDUSTRIES AND MOVE IN THE DIRECTION OF "HIGH-TECH".

HE SAID THE APPLICATION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY WAS THE KEY TO SUCCESSFULLY DEVELOPING HIGH-TECH INDUSTRIES AND HE URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO PAY CLOSER ATTENTION TO THIS.

UNIVERSITIES AND OTHER TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS MUST BE PREPARED TO TRAIN THE REQUIRED PROFESSIONALS TO HELP OUR ENTERPRISES IN EXPLOITING THE ADVANTAGES OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, HE ADDED.

"COMPUTER KNOWLEDGE SHOULD BE TAUGHT MORE EXTENSIVELY IN OUR PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS. THE COMPUTER LITERACY OF OUR STUDENTS MUST BE GREATLY IMPROVED."

MR LI ALSO POINTED OUT THAT HONG KONG WAS MOVING TOWARDS A GROWING INTEGRATION OF BANKING AND NON-BANKING FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES.

"AS A RESULT, THE REGULATION AND SUPERVISION OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS SHOULD BE BASED ON 'FUNCTION' RATHER THAN ON 'CLASS’."

HE SAID MANY LICENSED DTC’S IN HONG KONG, BY THEIR VERY NATURE, SHOULD BE SUPERVISED AS MERCHANT BANKS RATHER THAN AS ANOTHER CLASS OF DEPOSIT-TAKING INSTITUTIONS.

"IT WOULD ALSO BE APPROPRIATE TO USE THE NAME "MERCHANT BANKS" RATHER THAN "LICENSED DTC’S” BECAUSE THE NAME "DTC" LACKS RECOGNITION IN INTERNATIONAL MARKETS."

/Mr li

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 198?

- 56 -

MR LI SAID HONG KONG MUST MAINTAIN ITS COMPETITIVE EDGE AS A FINANCIAL CENTRE AND THAT BETTER CO-ORDINATION OF MEASURES BETWEEN THE TAXATION AND BANKING SUPERVISORY AUTHORITIES WAS VITAL.

“TAX CONCESSIONS ON HONG KONG DOLLAR DEBT PAPER ARE A CASE IN POINT,” HE SAID. ”BY SCRAPPING THE WITHHOLDING TAX ON HONG KONG DOLLAR DEBT INSTRUMENTS SO AS TO REVIVE THE CAPITAL MARKET, HONG KONG’S ATTRACTIVENESS AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE COULD BE MAINTAINED."

HE ALSO SAID THE RECENT DRASTIC FALL IN THE SECURITIES MARKET APPEARED TO HAVE HAD ONLY A MINIMAL EFFECT ON THE BANKING SECTOR.

’’WHILE THE SECRETARY FOR MONETARY AFFAIRS HAS DONE AN EXCELLENT JOB AS CHAIRMAN OF BANKS BAILED OUT BY PUBLIC FUNDS, IT IS HIGH TIME FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO RESOLVE THE CONFLICT OF INTEREST THAT THEY HAVE CREATED BY HAVING THE SAME PERSON ACT BOTH AS INDUSTRY REGULATOR AND AT THE SAME TIME AS THE CHAIRMAN OF THESE COMMERCIAL BANKS,” HE WENT ON.

’’THE RECENT SALE OF HONG KONG INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL BANK IS A GOOD PRECEDENT FOR PRIVATISATION OF GOVERNMENT CONTROLLED BANKS.”

MR LT SUGGESTED THAT GOVERNMENT SHOULD MAKE GREATER EFFORTS IN RETURNING THE OTHER TWO BANKS, OVERSEAS TRUST BANK AND HANG LUNG BANK, TO PROFITABLE OPERATION AND DISPOSING OF THEM IN THE MARKET.

-----0------

SCIENCE COMMITTEE WILL MEET GROWING NEED

i ♦

♦ ♦ »

THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION TECHNOLOGY WILL EFFICIENTLY MEET THE HON POON CHUNG-KWONG SAID (WEDNESDAY).

TO SET UP A GROWING

THE

SPEAKING DURING THE

POLICY

A COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE

NEED IN HONG

LEGISLATIVE

KONG,

COUNCIL

AND

PROF TODAY

* think-tank PS scientific™

ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT, TO IDENTIFY PROBLEM AREAS OPPORTUNITIES FOR DEVELOPMENT WITHIN HONG KONG.

THE ISSUES

AND HIGHLIGHT

HE SAID ONE IMPORTANT PURPOSE WHICH THE COMMITTEE WAS THE COMPILATION OF A LIST OF I COMMITTEE

SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGY FIELDS IN THE HONG WAY, A SWIFT AND EFFICIENT LINK WOULD GOVERNMENT AND APPROPRIATE EXPERTS.

LOCAL

PERSONNEL

WOULD SERVE

KONG CONTEXT.

SPEC IN

ESTABLISHED BETWEEN

IFIC

THIS

THE

/ANOTHER AREA

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 198?

- 37 -

ANOTHER AREA OF PARTICULAR INTEREST AT PRESENT WAS THE POSSIBLE IMPLEMENTATION, IN THE TERRITORY, OF SOME FORM OF COMPUTER NETWORK SYSTEM.

FOR EXAMPLE, THE NETWORK WOULD FACILITATE BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS BY REPLACING CONVENTIONAL DOCUMENTARY COMMUNICATION WITH ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION BETWEEN TRADING COMPANIES, BANKERS, INSURANCE COMPANIES, CARRIERS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS CONCERNED WITH LICENSING, CUSTOMS DECLARATIONS, QUOTA CONTROL ETC.

"SIMILARLY, IT WOULD FALL TO THE COMMITTEE TO PROVIDE SAFEGUARDS AGAINST COMPUTER-RELATED CRIMES; AND AGAINST THE MISUSE OF THE SYSTEM OF FINANCIAL CREDIT COMMONLY REFERRED TO AS ELECTONIC MONEY," HE SAID.

PROF POON SAID THE POLICY OF THE TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY TO AND FROM HONG KONG WOULD BE A TOPIC OF CONCERN, AS THE TERRITORY’S INDUSTRIES LOOKED TO STEP INTO THE FUTURE, AND THUS EMBRACED MORE HIGH TECHNOLOGY.

LASERS AND RADIO ISOTOPES HAD GAINED A GREAT DEAL OF SIGNIFICANCE IN RECENT YEARS BECAUSE OF THEIR WIDE SPHERE OF APPLICATION IN SUCH FIELDS AS SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, MEDICINE, THE BUILDING AND THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES, HE WENT ON.

THE QUESTION OF SAFETY CONTROLS IN BOTH AREAS WAS ONE TO WHICH THE COMMITTEE COULD GIVE SERIOUS AND INFORMED CONSIDERATION.

HE SAID YET ANOTHER AREA OF WORK FOR THE COMMITTEE WOULD BE THAT OF LICENSING IN SUCH PROFESSIONS AS ENGINEERING.

TURNING TO THE COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE, PROF POON SUGGESTED THAT THE CHAIRMAN BE CHOSEN NOT FROM AMONG MEMBERS OF THE GOVERNMENT BUT FROM THE INDEPENDENT PUBLIC.

LIKEWISE, THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMITTEE SHOULD COMPRISE DIRECTORS, OR THEIR DEPUTIES, OF THE RELEVANT GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, AND REPRESENTATIVES DRAWN FROM THE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS AND THOSE WORKING MORE GENERALLY IN THE FIELDS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY.

"IT IS, FURTHERMORE, TO BE HOPED THAT THE COMMITTEE WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO HOLD INFREQUENT MEETINGS WITH LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES OF SCIENTIFIC AND PROFESSIONAL BODIES IN ORDER TO ENCOURAGE THE INPUT OF IDEAS AT AN INFORMAL LEVEL," HE SAID.

ON THE SUBJECT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, PROF POON SAID THE RAPID DETFJRIORATION OF OUR ENVIRONMENT HAD BEEN OBVIOUS TO ANYONE LIVING IN HONG KONG, FOR SOME YEARS NOW. HE FELT THAT IT HAD NOW REACHED THE STAGE WHERE URGENT INTERVENTION WAS NECESSARY.

/HE NOTED

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 38 -

HE NOTED THAT THE MAIN THRUST OF THE GOVERNMENT’S ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PROGRAMME TO DATE HAD BEEN ON INTRODUCING LEGISLATIVE CONTROLS.

IN ORDER TO COMBAT AIR POLLUTION, THE GOVERNMENT LIMITED THE AMOUNT OF POLLUTANTS, A FACTORY COULD EMIT; TO CLEAN UP WATERCOURSES, LEGISLATION HAD BEEN INTRODUCED TO BAN THE KEEPING OF LIVESTOCK IN URBAN AND NEW TOWN AREAS, AND TO IMPOSE CONTROLS ON INDUSTRIAL WASTE; AND TO REDUCE THE LEVEL OF NOISE POLLUTION, THE GOVERNMENT INTENDED TO IMPOSE RESTRICTIONS ON INDUSTRIAl, NOISE.

PROF POON QUESTIONED WHETHER HONG KONG SHOULD RELY SOLELY ON THESE MEASURES. HE SAID IT WAS HIS FIRM BELIEF THAT EMPHASIS SHOULD ALSO BE PUT ON OTHER ASPECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION.

HE SUGGESTED THAT EFFORTS SHOULD BE MADE TO HELP INDUSTRIAL MANUFACTURERS AND FARMERS TO IDENTIFY WAYS OF REDUCING THE POLLUTION THEY WERE CAUSING. SUCH MEASURES SHOULD BE IMPLEMENTED PREFERABLY EVEN BEFORE LEGISLATIVE CONTROLS WERE INTRODUCED.

THE MOST POWERFUL AND EFFECTIVE MEANS OF COMBATING POLLUTION LAY IN PLANNING, HE STRESSED.

"CONSTRUCTING MUNICIPAL INCINERATORS IN POPULATION CENTRES, AND BUILDING RESIDENTIAL BLOCKS RIGHT NEXT TO FACTORY CHIMNEYS ARE BUT SOME OF THE MORE GLARING EXAMPLES OF THE BAI) PLANNING, WHICH IS PROLIFIC IN HONG KONG,” HE SAID.

"IT IS OF PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE THAT ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING SHOULD BECOME A KEY ISSUE IN THE FUTURE OF THE TERRITORY.

"GIVEN THAT MUCH OF THE POLLUTION IN HONG KONG IS A RESULT OF POPULATION GROWTH, IT IS IMPORTANT TO INSTIL IN THE GENERAL PUBLIC A SENSE OF SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS THEIR ENVIRONMENT."

PROF POON SAID THAT AT THE SAME TIME, THE PUBLIC COULD NOT HELP BUT WONDER WHY SO LITTLE IMPROVEMENT IN THE SITUATION HAD BEEN SHOWN, PARTICULARLY IN THE LIGHT OF THE EXPANSION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS, AND THE GREAT INCREASE IN ITS EXPENDITURE.

"PERHAPS IT IS TIME FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO REVIEW ITS WHOLE APPROACH TO THE PROBLEM OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, WITH PARTICULAR REGARD TO IMPROVING COST-EFFECTIVENESS, AND TO CONSOLIDATION, RATER THAN CONTINUING EXPANSION OF THE DEPARTMENT," HE SUGGESTED.

FINALLY, PROF POON REMINDED THE GOVERNMENT THAT HONG KONG RELIED HEAVILY ON MAINTAINING ITS COMPETITIVE INDUSTRIAL EDGE. SOLUTIONS TO ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS OVERSEAS COULD NOT BE BLINDLY APPLIED TO HONG KONG, HE SAID.

-------0----------

/39........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 39 -

GOVERNMENT MUST BE EFFECT I VI t t »

GOVERNMENT MUST BE EFFECTIVE; IT DOES NOI NECESSARILY ALWAYS HAVE TO BE POPULAR, DR THE HON HELMUT SOHMEN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING LN THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR'S POLICY ADDRESS, DR SOHMEN SAID THE RESCUE PACKAGE FOR THE FUTURES MARKET PUT TOGETHER BY THE GOVERNMENT AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN A VERY SHORT TIME WAS NOT ONLY VERY NECESSARY BUT APPEARED TO HAVE HELPED TO ARREST THE PANIC AMONG INVESTORS.

"THE USE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND IS THIS CONNECTION HAS AGAIN, AND PREDICTABLY, BEEN CRITICISED IN SOME QUARTERS, BUT IT GOVERNMENT COULD NOT EMPLOY THE FUND TO SAFEGUARD THE CONFIDENCE IN OUR MARKETS AND FINANCt A I NSTITl T IONS, BOTH AT HOME AND ABROAD, THEN WF MIGHT AS WELL FORGET v. ASPIRATIONS TO REMAIN A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE." HE SAID.

DR SOL N SAID TO PUT THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE, HONG KONG TAXPAYERS HAD S<: FAR CONTRIBUTED ABOUT $10.5 BILLION IN TOTAL TO DEFENCE SERVICES UNDER THE 1981 DEFENCE' COSTS AGREEMENT WITH THE UNITED KINGDOM, AND CLOSE TO $8 BILLION SINCE' 1981, Illi YEAR OF THE SIGNING OF THE JO INI DECLARATION.

HE SAI,) THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY IN COMING FURTHER TALKS ON THIS ISSUE COULD JUSTIFIABLY ASK AGAINST WHOM HONG KONG WAS BEING DFI EM)ED, WIG, HE YRGIIED FOR A REDUCTION IN HONG EONG'S CONTRIBUTION.

ARE SL BILLION IN CONTINGENT SUPPORT TOO MUCH TO MAINTAIN HONG E G'S GOOP NAMI AND THE SURVIVAL OE A SECTOR oF OUR ECONOMY ON WHICH so MANY PEOPLE NOW DEPEND?" HE ASKED.

"MUCH DAMAGE HAD ALREADY BEEN DONE BY HIE PREU I I’ITOUS CLOSURE OF THE' STOCK MARKET; GOVERNMENT WAS WISE IO MOVE FAST IN DAMAGE CONTROL."

1 -<:!IMI- SAID THE EVENTS OF THE LAST FORTH I GUT HAD BROUGHT THE POINT oMI i'o MANY THAT FUTURES AND OPTIONS DID NOT REALLY CREATE WEALTH; THEY UAH ALSO HIGHLIGHTED A NUMBER OF FALSE ASSUMPTIONS AND SHORTCOMINGS IN OUR REGULATORY ARRANGEMENTS AND IN THE BEHAVIOUR OF SOME MARKET PARTICIPANTS.

' rill .I II s I OBY IOUSLY BE PUT RIGHT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

”.l THOSE. CRITICS WHO NOW SO LOUDLY AND A. ("NATIONS SHOULD BEAR IN MINI) THAT IT HINDSIGHT; (INI WOULD BF MORE IMPRESSED WI TH HAD RAISED rilEIR VOICES BEFORE THE EVENT."

INDULGE IN RECRIMINATION

IS EASY O’ HR CLEVER WITH

THEIR POSITION IF THEY

/HE SAID

WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 4t 1987

40 -

HE SAID IT WAS EVIDENT THAT THE RAPID GROWTH IN OUR FINANCIAL MARKETS, AND IN NEW INSTITUTIONS AND NEW INSTRUMENTS HAD ALREADY STRETCHED THE REGULATORY MACHINERY, WITH THE OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER FOR SECURITIES SUFFICIENTLY UNDERSTAFFED TO BE UNABLE TO AVOID DELAYS IN DEALING EVEN WITH ROUTINE TASKS.

HE SAID WE COULD NOT GO ON LEGISLATING WITHOUT FIRST ENSURING THAT EXPERIENCED MANPOWER WAS IN PLACE TO (’OPE WITH THE RESULTING ADDITIONAL DEMANDS MADE ON THE ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES.

"WE SHOULD ALSO NOT OVER-REACT AND ABANDON OUR BASIC PHILOSOPHY OF SELF-REGULATTON; IT IS STILL THE MORE EFFICIENT AND ULTIMATELY MORE EFFECTIVE WAY," HE SAID.

"HOWEVER, WE SHOULD CAREFULLY MONITOR AND ASSESS THE ACTIONS OF MARKET PARTICIPANTS IN TIMES OF CRISIS, AND RECORD AND REMEMBER THOSE WHOSE PERFORMANCE LEFT SOMETHING TO BE DESIRED, ESPECIALLY WHEN CALLED UPON TO HELP WITH THE SUPPORT PACKAGE.

"OVER THE LONGER RUN HONG KONG WILL RE BETTER OFF WITHOUT THOSE WHO MAXIMISE BENEFITS FROM PARTICIPATING ONLY IN GOOD TIMES BUT HAVE LITTLE SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH."

DR SOHMEN SAID THE DRAMATIC FALL IN THE STOCK EXCHANGES AROUND THE WORLD AND CONSEQUENTIAL EFFECTS ON INVESTOR CONFIDENCE PROBABLY WOULD HERALD A PERIOD OF VOLATILITY IN THE FINANCIAL MARKETS, AND WOULD UNDOUBTEDLY HAVE A DOWNWARD IMPACT ON PROJECTED GROWTH RATES FOR CONSUMPTION, GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT, AND EXPORTS.

HE SAID ALTHOUGH HONG KONG CURRENTLY ENJOYED A SOUND ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE, UNDERPINNED BY STRONG EXPORT FIGURES, THE PAST WEEKS COULD ONLY REINFORCE THE JUST I FI (’AT I ON FOR CONTINUE PRUDENCE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PUBLIC FINANCES.

ON RELATED ISSUES, DR SOHMEN SAID HE WAS DISAPPOINTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD TAKEN A FAIRLY ABSOLUTE STANCE AS REGARDS THE SELECTIVE AND CONTROLLED IMPORTATION OF FOREIGN LABOUR 1'0 ABSORB SOME OF THE REAL AND IMMEDIATE PRESSURES FOR SOME OF OUR INDUSTRIES.

HE SAID ADM INSTRATIVE EXPEDIENCY ALONE NEVER .JUSTIFIED INACTION; MOST OF THE OTHER ARGUMENTS USED TO REJECT THE IDEA DID NOT REALLY STAND UP TO SCRUTINY.

HE ALSO SAID THAT, OVERALL, THE GOVERNMENT HAD OBJECTIVELY DONE VER\ LILLTE OVER THE YEARS TO HELP INDUSTRY IN HONG KONG IMPROVE QUALITY AND PRODUCT I VTTY.

"A SHORTAGE OF LABOUR TENDS TO PUSH UP WAGES AND PRICES, AND DAMPENS COMPETITIVENESS; SO SOLUTIONS PROPOSED HAVE TO ALSO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE TIME FACT AS WELL, IF THEY WISH TO BE CREDIBLE," HE ADDED.

/ON ECONOMIC

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 198?

ON ECONOMIC LINKS WITH CHINA, DR SOHMEN SAID IT REMAINED SURPRISING THAT THE GOVERNMENT CONTINUED ITS REFUSAL TO TACKLE THE "VEXED QUESTION" OF VISITOR VISAS FOR EAST EUROPEAN AND HAD WAITED SO LONG FOR STUDIES TO UE COMMISSIONED INTO FURTHER AIRPORT IMPROVEMENTS TO CATER FOR THE CHINA TRAFFIC, WAS UNWILLING TO CONSIDER A REDUCTION IN THE AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX AT LEAST FOR TRAVEL TO CHINA, AND ADHERED TO AN AVIATION POLICY Will (II DID NOT IN PRACTICE FACILITATE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW AIR SERVICES FROM HONG KONG.

ON CULTURAL LIFE, DR SOHMEN SAID MUCH HAD INNDEED BEEN ACHIEVED OVER THE PAST DECADE BUT REGRETTABLY THE LAST FEW YEARS HAD SEEN AN EMPHASIS PRIMARILY ON BUILDINGS RATHER THAN ON PEOPLE.

HE SAID THAT A RIGHT BALANCE SHOULD BE STRUCK BETWEEN EXPENDITURE INVOLVED IN BRINGING TO HONG KONG ARTISTS FROM OVERSEAS AGAINST FUNDS SPENT TO FURTHER ENCOURAGE LOCAL ARTISTS.

ON POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT, DR SOHMEN SAID THE PROPONENTS OF MORE ABRUPT CHANGE TO BE INTRODUCED NEXT YEAR HAD NOT REALLY MADE A GOOD CASE FOR THE NEED FOR URGENCY AND HE WAS NOT SURPRISED THAT THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE CONFIRMED A DEFINITE PREFERENCE FOR A MORE GRADUAL APPROACH AND ONE THAT WOULD TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE REALITY OF THE FUTURE BASIC LAW.

"IT IS OF COURSE THE DRAFTING WORK ON THE BASIC LAW WHICH SHOULD OCCUPY OUR FULL INTEREST, NOT SO MUCH THE ARGUMENTS PRO AND CON DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988, BECAUSE IT IS THE TOTALITY OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE BA ISIC LAW WHICH WILL DETERMINE THE SUCCESS OR FAILURE OF THE 'ONE COUNTRY, TWO SYSTEMS’ EXPERIMENT AND THE STATE OF THE TERRITORY DURING THE NEXT 60 YEARS."

HE SAID, THE GREEN PAPER DEBATE HAD AT BEST CREATED A DIVERSION AWAY FROM THE FUNDAMENTAL ISSUES, BUT MORE LIKELY' PRODUCED COMPLICATIONS FOR THE DRAFTING PROCESS, WITH THE HONG KONG CONTINGENT OF DRAFTERS PRESENTING A PICTURE OF DISAGREEMENT AND LACK OF PURPOSE TO THE CHINESE SIDE OF WHAT THE HONG KONG PEOPLE REALLY WANTED.

"THIS IS NOT HELPED BY THE ABSENCE OF CONSTITUTIONAL LEGAL EXPERTISE AMONG OUR EMINENT DRAFTING AND CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS, A LACK OF KNOWLEDGE WHICH IS MIRRORED THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY' AND HAS CLEARLY NOT HELPED TO RAISE THE PROFESSIONAL LEVEL OF THE UNDERTAKING," HE SAID.

ON THE COMPOSITION AND CONTINUED DEDICATION OF THE CIVIL SERVICE, DR SOHMEN SAID CIVIL SERVANTS IN HONG KONG WOULD INCREASINGLY REQUIRE MORE THAN FINANCIAL REWARDS OR GUARANTEED CAREERS PROSPECTS; THEY WOULD NEED TO HAVE CONFIDENCE DURING THE PERIOD UP TO 1997 AND BEYOND IN THE POLITICAL SUPPORT BY THE PEOPLE.

"WHILE INDIVIDUAL OR COLLECTIVE DISAGREEMENTS WITH THE POLICY DECISIONS OF GOVERNMENT ARE AN ACCEPTABLE AND NECESSARY RESULT OF A FREE SOCIETY, GOVERNMENT’S AUTHORITY TO MAKE DECISIONS SHOULD NOT BE UNDERMINED ALL Ob' A SUDDEN ON THE STRENGTH OF THE ARGUMENT THAT IT IS AN APPOINTED GOVERNMENT."

/"THOSE INTDIT

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4t 1987

’’THOSE INTENT ON PROVING THEIR POWER BY MEANS OF CHALLENGE, BUT WITHOUT CARRYING ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE RESULTS OF THEIR ACTIONS, DO NOT ULTIMATELY HELP TO ACHIEVE BETTER GOVERNMENT BUT INSTEAD HELP TO CREATE DOUBT, VACILLATION OR INDECISION, OR

DEMORALISE THOSE WHO ARE PART OF GOVERNMENT. *

"THIS IS NOT WHAT HONG KONG NEEDS OR WANTS IN THIS CRITICAL TRANSITION PERIOD. WE SHOULD ASSIST GOVERNMENT TO FUNCTION PROPERLY THROUGH RESPONSIBLE AND CONSTRUCTIVE COMMENT, NOT BY CONCENTRATED EFFORTS TO DISCOVER AND PUBLICISE ANY AND ALL SHORTCOMINGS, OR BY CAMPAIGNS TO EXPLOIT POLICY DIFFERENCES FOR SHORT-TERM GAINS IN POPULARITY."

-------0----------

PRIVATE SECTOR HAS IMPORTANT ROLE , » » ♦

THE SUCCESS OF HONG KONG DEPENDS LARGELY ON THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY OF ALLOWING THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO JOIN IN ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN WHICH THEY EXCEL, THE HON MISS MARIA TAM SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SHE MAINTAINED THAT IT WOULD NOT BE DESIRABLE FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO COMPETE WITH THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN AREAS WHERE THE LATTER WOULD DO WELL.

"IF BRIDGES AND PIERS ARE NEEDED IN FUTURE PLANS OF PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT, WE SHOULD ALSO ENCOURAGE THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO INVEST IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND TAKE CARE OF THE MANAGEMENT,” SHE SAID DURING THE ANNUAL POLICY DEBATE.

MISS TAM BELIEVED THAT WHEN IT CAME TO PROVISION OF INFRASTRUCTURE SUCH AS TRANSPORT FACILITIES, CONSIDERATION SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN TO MARKET COMPETITION ALONE.

"ON THE CONTRARY,” SHE SAID, "AN ENVIRONMENT OF LIMITED COMPETITION WILL SERVE A BETTER PURPOSE."

SHE SUGGESTED THAT IN ORDER TO CONTINUE ATTRACTING THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO INVEST IN TRANSPORT SERVICES, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD ASSESS AND DETERMINE THE EXTENT OF THE DEMAND AND LET THE PRIVATE SECTOR PROVIDE QUALITY SERVICES.

/MISS TAM

WEDNESDAY, NOVOfflER 4, 1987

MISS TAM BASICALLY DISAGREED THAT PUBLIC FUNDS SHOULD BE USED TO FINANCE THE SETTING UP OF PRIVATE ENTERPRISES TO COMPETE WITH THE PRIVATE SECTOR, CITING THE ADVERSE EFFECT OF THE MTR ISLAND LINE ON THE CHINA MOTOR BUS COMPANY AND THE YAUMATI FERRY COMPANY AS A CASE IN POINT.

SHE BELIEVED THAT THE PRIME OBJECTIVES OF SUCH COMPANIES AS THE MTRC, THE KCRC AND THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT COMPANY SHOULD BE SET ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF EFFICIENT TRANSPORT SERVICES BETWEEN THE URBAN AREAS AND THE NEW TOWNS.

DURING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TUEN MUN NEW TOWN, THERE HAD BEEN A LACK OF CO-ORDINATION BETWEEN THE PROVISION OF JOB OPPORTUNITIES AND THE NUMBER AND THE TYPE OF SKILLED WORKERS, SHE SAID.

WITH PHASE II OF THE JUNK BAY DEVELOPMENT NEARING COMPLETION, SHE SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD SEEK WAYS TO EXTEND THE HOUSING PROJECT THERE TN ORDER TO MAKE EXTENSION OF THE MTR MORK COST-EFFECTIVE.

"ON THE OTHER HAND, THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT SHOULD CONDUCT SURVEYS ON THE OCCUPATIONS OF THE RESIDENTS MOVING INTO THE NEW TOWN AND PROVIDE THE INDUSTRY AND TRADE DEPARTMENTS WITH FIGURES ON THE SKILLED WORKERS WHO HAVE MOVED IN SO THAT MANUFACTURERS CAN BE DULY INFORMED," SHE SAID.

MISS TAM HOPED THAT THE KCRC AND THE MTRC WOULD BE ALLOWED THE FLEXIBILITY TO OPERATE FOR THE PURPOSE OF FACILITATING DEVELOPMENT TN THE TERRITORY RATHER THAN SIMPLY FOR THE PURPOSE OF MAKING PROFITS.

SINCE IT WOULD BE UNREASONABLE TO ASK A PRIVATE ENTERPRISE TO BEAR THE RESPONSIBILITY OF OPERATING A ROUTE WHICH MIGHT NOT YIELD THE HIGHEST RETURNS, MISS TAM SUGGESTED THAT THE RESPONSIBILITY SHOULD BE SHOULDERED BY THE TRANSPORT CORPORATIONS WHICH WERE SUPPORTED BY PUBLIC FUNDS.

"SUCH A MOVE WILL DEMONSTRATE THAT THE GOVERNMENT IS NOT SHIRKING ITS RESPONSIBILITIES BY PRIVATISATION," SHE SAID.

TURNING TO THE COMPETITION BETWEEN LAND AND SEA TRANSPORT, MISS TAM HOPED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD NOT REQUEST A CUT IN CROSS-HARBOUR AND OUTLYING DISTRICTS FERRY SERVICES ON THE GROUND THAT SOME FERRY PIERS HAD TO BE RECONSTRUCTED OR RELOCATED AS A RESULT OF RECLAMATION WORKS IN CERTAIN AREAS.

"THE PRESENT ROUTES SHOULD RE RETAINED UNLESS THE FERRY COMPANY REQUESTS A CUT IN ITS SERVICES UNDER THE PRESENT POLICY," SHE SAID.

/SHE SUGGESTED........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1>

■f

- A4 -

SHE SUGGESTED THAT UPON THE COMPLETION OF RECLAMATION WORKS, NEW PIERS SHOULD BE REBUILT AT A POINT NEAREST TO THE ORIGINAL LOCATION TO ENSURE THAT THE VIABILITY OF THE ROUTES WAS NOT AFFECTED.

"THE LANDS AND WORKS BRANCH AND THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SHOULD CO-ORDINATE THEIR WORK IN ORDER TO MINIMISE THE INCONVENIENCE CAUSED TO THE FERRY COMPANY AND TO THE PASSENGERS," SHE ADDED.

DESPITE THE POSSIBILITY THAT SOME DAY LANTAU ISLAND, PENG CHAU AND CHEUNG CHAU WOULD BE LINKED BY BRIDGES, MISS TAM FELT THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD NOT OVERLOOK THE NEED FOR A "SECOND LINK", SUCH AS FERRY SERVICES, IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN A CERTAIN LEVEL OF COMPETITION.

MISS TAM ALSO ASKED THE GOVERNMENT TO LOOK INTO THE MANAGEMENT PROBLEMS THAT MIGHT ARISE FROM THE OPERATION OF EXISTING FERRY SERVICES, AND THE POSSIBLE INTRODUCTION OF NEW BUS ROUTES, TO CHINA.

"HOW SHOULD THE INVESTMENT AND EXPENDITURE OF THESE TWO DIFFERENT KINDS OF SERVICES BE WORKED OUT UNDER THE PROFIT CONTROL SCHEME? OR SHOULD A SUBSIDIARY COMPANY BE FORMED TO TAKE UP SUCH BUSINESS?"

COMMENTING ON THE INCREASING NUMBER OF VEHICLES REGISTERED IN CHINA CROSSING THE BORDER FROM SHENZHEN, IN PARTICULAR GOODS VEHICLES, MISS TAM SAID: "THE DRIVERS AND VEHICLES FROM THE MAINLAND MUST BE SUBJECT TO LOCAL LEGISLATIVE CONTROL, INCLUDING VEHICLE REGISTRATION, INSURANCE, INSPECTION OF VEHICLES AND DRIVING TESTS FOR DRIVERS, AS ARE LOCAL VEHICLES AND DRIVERS."

SHE SUGGESTED THAT THE DRIVING LICENCES ISSUED TO THESE DRIVERS SHOULD BE OF A DIFFERENT COLOUR SO THAT THEY WOULD NOT BE CONFUSED WITH THE IDENTIFICATION DOCUMENTS USED IN HONG KONG.

ON THE QUESTION OF WHETHER PUBLIC OR PRIVATE TRANSPORT SHOULD BE GIVEN PRIORITY IN ROAD USAGE, MISS TAM HOPED THAT THE NEEDS OF PASSENGER AND CARGO TRAFFIC COULD BE INCLUDED IN THE SECOND COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORT STUDY DUE TO BE COMPLETED IN THE MIDDLE OF 1988.

SHE WELCOMED THE GOVERNMENT’S INTENTION TO SEEK PUBLIC VIEWS ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS BEFORE MAJOR DECISIONS WERE TAKEN, AND ASKED THAT THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT GIVE A DETAILED ACCOUNT OF THE TARGETS AND METHODS OF CONSULTATION.

-----o------

A5.....

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 45 -

REPORT OF THE SURVEY OFFICE PUBLISHED *****

THE GOVERNMENT PUBLISHED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THE REPORT OF THE SURVEY OFFICE ON PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER: THE 1987 REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENTS IN REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT.

THE SURVEY OFFICE WAS SET UP IN LATE APRIL THIS YEAR, SHORTLY BEFORE THE PUBLICATION OF THE GREEN PAPER IN MAY, TO COLLECT, COLLATE AND REPORT ON PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER. IT WAS AN INDEPENDENT BODY, SET UP UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE GOVERNOR AND SEPARATE FROM THE ORDINARY MACHINERY OF THE GOVERNMENT.

PUBLIC CONSULTATION IN RESPECT OF THE ISSUES DISCUSSED IN THE GREEN PAPER ENDED ON SEPTEMBER 30, 1987, AND THE SURVEY OFFICE WAS REQUIRED TO SUBMIT ITS REPORT TO THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL WITHIN A MONTH FROM THE END OF THE CONSULTATION PERIOD.

AS A RESULT OF SUSTAINED PUBLICITY GIVEN TO THE MATTER THROUGHOUT THE CONSULTATION PERIOD BY THE SURVEY OFFICE, NUMEROUS INTERESTED GROUPS AS WELL AS THE MASS MEDIA, AN OVERWHELMING NUMBER OF SUBMISSIONS OF OPINIONS HAD BEEN RECEIVED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE.

A TOTAL OF 134,656 SUBMISSIONS WERE RECEIVED, INCLUDING 469 WHICH WERE RECEIVED AFTER THE DEADLINE. SOME 126,000 OF THESE WERE SUBMITTED BY INDIVIDUALS; OVER 4,600 BY GROUPS OF INDIVIDUALS; AND OVER 1,000 BY ASSOCIATIONS AND OTHER BODIES. EIGHTY SIX PER CENT OF THE SUBMISSIONS FROM INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS OF INDIVIDUALS WERE IN THE FORM OF PRE-PRINTED LETTERS OR QUESTIONNAIRES. MORE THAN 95 PER CENT OF THE SUBMISSIONS WERE WRITTEN IN CHINESE.

IN ADDITION TO RECEIVING SUBMISSIONS FROM THE PUBLIC, THE SURVEY OFFICE ALSO COMMISSIONED AGB MCNAIR HONG KONG LIMITED TO CARRY OUT TWO SEPARATE PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS, ONE IN JULY AND THE OTHER IN AUGUST/SEPTEMBER. TO ENSURE THAT THE RESULTS OF THE SURVEYS WERE AS RELIABLE AS POSSIBLE, A RANDOM SAMPLE COMPRISING OVER 3,000 RESPONDENTS WAS SELECTED FOR EACH SURVEY. THIS COMPARES WITH A SAMPLE SIZE OF 1,000 TO 2,000 NORMALLY ADOPTED INTERNATIONALLY FOR OPINION SURVEYS OF THIS NATURE. EXPERIENCED AND TRAINED INTERVIEWERS WERE EMPLOYED, AND THE CONDUCT OF THE INTERVIEWS WERE VERIFIED BY INDEPENDENT PERSONNEL. A PILOT TEST WAS ALSO CARRIED OUT BEFORE THE QUESTIONNAIRE WAS FINALISED FOR USE IN THE TWO SURVEYS. THE RESULTS OF THESE SURVEYS ARE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ENTIRE ADULT POPULATION OF HONG KONG.

THE SURVEY OFFICE ALSO OBSERVED MEETINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE URBAN AND REGIONAL COUNCILS AND THE 19 DISTRICT BOARDS AT WHICH THE GREEN PAPER WAS DISCUSSED. THE OFFICE WAS PROVIDED WITH THE FULL TEXTS OR MINUTES OF THE MEETINGS AS THE BASIS FOR ANALYSING THE INDIVIDUAL VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE MEMBERS.

/REPORTS IN .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

< - 46 -

REPORTS IN NEWSPAPERS, MAGAZINES, RADIO AND TELEVISION PROGRAMMES WERE ALSO MONITORED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE. THESE INCLUDED INTERVIEWS, PUBLIC SPEECHES, DEBATES, DISCUSSIONS, EDITORIALS, FEATURE COLUMNS AND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. A TOTAL OF 12,784 SUCH REPORTS WERE EXAMINED, AND CHECKS WERE MADE AS TO THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THESE REPORTS REPEATED THE SUBMISSIONS SEPARATELY RECEIVED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE.

THE VARIOUS FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE ARE RECORDED IN DETAIL IN THE REPORT BEING PUBLISHED TODAY. THE REPORT COMPRISES THREE VOLUMES. VOLUME I CONSISTS OF THE MAIN SURVEY REPORT. VOLUME II PROVIDES SUPPORTING DETAILS TO THE MAIN REPORT IN THE FORM OF SUMMARIES OF THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND THE URBAN AND REGIONAL COUNCILS; DETAILS OF THE PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS AND SIGNATURE CAMPAIGNS SENT TO THE SURVEY OFFICE; AND A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF ALL ASSOCIATIONS AND OTHER BODIES WHO WROTE TO THE SURVEY OFFICE AND WHO DID NOT REQUEST CONFIDENTIALITY. VOLUME III CONTAINS SAMPLES OF EACH OF THE PRE-PRINTED LETTERS AND QUESTIONNAIRES SENT IN TO THE SURVEY OFFICE.

IN PROCESSING THE SUBMISSIONS SENT IN BY THE PUBLIC, THE SURVEY OFFICE TOOK PARTICULAR CARE TO CHECK THEIR AUTHENTICITY AND THE EXTENT OF ANY DUPLICATION OR REPETITION. THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURES WERE ADOPTED:

(A) ALL SUBMISSIONS WERE REGISTERED BY SERIAL NUMBER, AND THOSE SUBMISSIONS WHICH PROVIDED AN ADDRESS WERE ACKNOWLEDGED BY LETTER;

(B) THE OPINIONS SUBMITTED WERE SUMMARISED AND RECORDED ON SPECIALLY DEVELOPED DATA FORMS. THESE WERE DOUBLE-CHECKED BEFORE FEEDING INTO THE COMPUTER FOR PROCESSING;

(D) SUBMISSIONS JUDGED TO BE REPETITION OF THE SAME VIEWS FROM THE SAME AUTHOR WERE NOT PROCESSED; AND

(E) IN PROCESSING THE SUBMISSIONS FROM ORGANISERS OF PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS, SIGNATURE CAMPAIGNS AND SIMILAR DOCUMENTS, FURTHER INFORMATION WAS SOUGHT FROM THE

ORGANISERS AS REGARDS THEIR SOURCE AND METHOD OF

COMPILATION ETC.

TOWARDS THE END OF THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION PERIOD, THERE WERE REPORTS THAT FRAUDULENT SUBMISSIONS HAD BEEN SENT TO THE SURVEY OFFICE. A TOTAL OF 2,182 INDIVIDUALS REPORTED TO THE SURVEY OFFICE BY OCTOBER 21 THAT SUBMISSIONS WHICH PURPORTED TO HAVE COME FROM THEM HAD BREN SENT WITHOUT THEIR KNOWLEDGE. SOME 45 OF THESE REPORTS WERE SUBSEQUENTLY WITHDRAWN AFTER THEY HAD BEEN MADE AND 238 COULD NOT BE ACTED ON BECAUSE THE COMPLAINANTS WERE UNABLE TO QUOTE THE REFERENCE NUMBERS WHICH IDENTIFIED THE SUBMISSIONS.

/THUS, THE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4« 1?87

THUS, THE NUMBER OF DISPUTED SUBMISSIONS WAS REDUC 09.

THE SURVEY OFFICE HAS NOW, ACTINO ON LEGAL ADVICE, P' I"

CASES TO THE POLICE FOR INVESTIGATION. THEY HAVE ALSO (CLUDED

FROM THE SURVEY REPORT. THE ACCURACY AND CREDIBILITY OF REPORT

WILL NOT, THEREFORE, BE AFFECTED.

ALL ASPECTS OF THE WORK OF THE SURVEY OFFICE WEIg.

TWO INDEPENDENT MONITORS. THEY WERE REQUIRED TO SUBMI'i INDEPENDENT REPORT TO THE GOVERNOR AS TO WHETHER THEY SATISFIED

THAT THE OFFICE HAD PROPERLY, ACCURATELY AND IMPARTIAL OUT

ITS DUTIES.

IN CARRYING OUT THEIR MONITORING WORK, THE MONITORS READ ALL THE SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE. THEY DIED THE

PROCEDURES ADOPTED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE IN HANDLING THE IllSSIONS AND OBSERVED HOW THE OFFICE IMPLEMENTED SUCH PROCEDURES.

THEY SCRUTINISED THE SURVEY OFFICE’S CLASSIFICATION OF SUBMISSIONS, EXAMINED THE CODING SYSTEM FOR COMPUTER INPUT, AND CHECKED A RANDOM SAMPLE OF THE COMPUTER OUTPUT. THEY ALSO OVERSAW HOW THE SURVEY OFFICE MONITORED VIEWS AS REPORTED IN OR EXPRESSED THROUGH THE PRINT AND ELECTRONIC MEDIA.

IN ADDITION, THEY OBSERVED MEETINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS, THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS, THE DISTRICT BOARDS AND A NUMBER OF SEMINARS TO LISTEN DIRECTLY TO THE RANGE OF VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE MEMBERS.

ALL SUBMISSIONS WHICH WERE JUDGED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE TO IRRELEVANT OR DUPLICATE WERE SCRUTINISED BY THE MONITORS. SUBMISSIONS WHICH WERE THE SUBJECT OF DISPUTED AUTHORSHIP WERE Al REFERRED TO THE MONITORS FOR VERIFICATION. FURTHER, LATE SUBMISSIONS WERE PASSED TO THE MONITORS FOR SCRUTINY OF THE POSTMARKS. NONE OF THESE SUBMISSIONS WAS PROCESSED INTO THE COMPUTERS.

THE MONITORS HAVE STATED IN THEIR REPORT THAT "IN CONCLUSION, WE JUDGE THAT THE SURVEY OFFICE HAS PROPERLY, ACCURATELY IMPARTIALLY CARRIED OUT ITS DUTIES AND FOLLOWED Till PRESCRIBED IN ITS TERMS OF REFERENCE”. THE REPORT OF THE MONITORS TO THE GOVERNOR IS INCLUDED IN VOLUME 1 OF THE REPORT BEIN' IED BY

THE GOVERNMENT.

THE SURVEY OFFICE HAS CONFIRMED THAT ALL SUBMISSIONS IN WHICH CONFIDENTIALITY WAS REQUESTED WILL BE DESTROYED AS SOON AS PRACTICABLE AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE WHITE PAPER. SIMILARLY, ALL OTHER SUBMISSIONS, AS WELL AS ALL COMPUTER INPUT FORMS, PRINT-OUTS, WORD PROCESSOR DISKETTES AND INFORMATION IN COMPUTER STORAGE, USE.) !OR THE PURPOSES OF THE SURVEY OFFICE WILL ALSO BF DESTROYED AFTER THE WHITE PAPER HAS BFEN PUBLISHED.

/VOLUME I

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

VOLUME I OF THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGF FROM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) AT THE DISTRICT OFFICES; THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, ^NAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL; AND THE MARKETING OFFICE OF THE INFORMATION SERVICES1 DEPARTMENT, NO. 1 BATTERY PATH, CENTRAL. A TOTAL OF 160,000 SERVICES DtFAKlMNl, Qoo ifj enolish) has been PRINTED

COPIES (120,000 THIS PURPOSE.

FOR

VOLUMES II AND UI WHICH CONTAIN SUPPORTING DETAILS AND APPENDICES WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PERUSAL AT THE DISTRICT OFFICES AND

PUBLIC LIBRARIES.

-----0------

"RESTRICTIVE TRADE MEASURES DO NOT PAY"

*****

THE EXPORT OF TEXTILES AND CLOTHING PRODUCTS FROM ASIA INTO MANY INDUSTRIALISED COUNTRIES IS SUBJECT TO SEVERE RESTRAINTS AND HONG KONG IS NATURALLY CONCERNED ABOUT SUCH PRESSURES, THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE INTERSTOFF SAIA ’87 EXHIBITION, MR MACLEOD SAID HONG KONG’S TEXTILES AND CLOTHING INDUSTRIES HAVE LONG BEEN A MAINSTAY OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY.

"TOGETHER THEY ACCOUNT FOR OVER 40 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL EMPLOYMENT IN OUR MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES, AND TEXTILES AND CLOTHING PRODUCTS ALSO CONSTITUTE SOME 40 PER CENT OF HONG KONG’S DOMESTIC EXPORTS."

MR MACLEOD SAID AS THE ABILITY TO BUY IS CONTINGENT UPON THE ABILITY TO SELL, IT WOULD BE IN THE INTEREST OF BOTH THE BUYER AND THE SELLER ALIKE TO ENSURE INCREASED TRADE BOTH WAYS: BY LETTING OPPORTUNITIES BE EXPLOITED BY MARKET FORCES WITHOUT HINDRANCE THROUGH PROTECTIONISM.

HE URGED BUSINESSMEN FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD TO BRING HOME THE MESSAGE THAT RESTRICTIVE TRADE MEASURES DO NOT PAY.

MR MACLEOD SAID HONG KONG WAS NOT ONLY THE WORLD’S BIGGEST GARMENT EXPORTER, IT WAS ALSO THE THIRD LARGEST IMPORTER OF TEXTILES AND EIGHTH LARGEST IMPORTER OF CLOTHING.

HE SAID HONG KONG’S OWN FABRICS, MATERIALS AND FASHION ACCESSORIES WERE MOVING INCREASINGLY UP-MARKET AND ITS GARMENT INDUSTRY WAS EVER ON THE LOOKOUT FOR HIGH FASHION FABRICS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ITS MANY MARKETS.

-------0 ---------

A9.....

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 49 -

PARADE TO LAUNCH KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN DRIVE ♦ * » * »

A TOTAL OF 27 ORGANISATIONS, 14 FROM DISTRICT BOARDS AND 13 FROM PRIVATE CORPORATIONS, WOULD PARTICIPATE IN THE KEEP HONG KONG i . \N PARADE TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 15, MEMBERS OF THE URBAN COUNCIL K1:.. HONG KONG CLEAN COMMITTEE WERE TOLD AT TODAY’S (WEDNESDAY’S) MEETING.

THEY ALSO HEARD THAT THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, WOULD OFFICIATE AT A BALLOON-FLYING CEREMONY AT EDINBURGH PLACE AND PRESENT SOUVENIRS TO PARTICIPATING ORGANISATIONS.

THE PARADE, WHICH MARKS THE BEGINNING OF THIS YEAR’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN AT DISTRICT LEVEL, IS AIMED AT ENCOURAGING PRIVATE ORGANISATIONS TO SUPPORT THE CAMPAIGN. THE PARADE WILL START AT TSUEN WAN SPORTS GROUND AND FINISH AT EDINBURGH PLACE.

ALL VEHICLES TAKING PART IN THE PARADE WILL BE DECORATED WITH KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN MESSAGES TOGETHER WITH THEIR RESPECTIVE DISTRICT/ CORPORATE IDENTITIES.

AT THE STARTING POINT, THERE WILL BE A DRAGON DANCE PERFORMANCE, PRECEDED BY AN EYE-DOTTING CEREMONY. ON ARRIVAL AT ED.NBURGH PLACE, MARCHING BAND PERFORMANCES, A BALLOON-FLYING CEREMONY, AND PRIZE PRESENTATION TO THE BEST-DECORATED VEHICLES WILL BE HELD.

HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY WOULD BE AN HOUR-LONG VARIETY SHOW WHICH IS PRODUCED BY RTHK AND WILL BE BROADCAST LIVE FROM 12 NOON TO 1 PM.

-----0------

VTC TO IMPLEMENT TRADE TESTING FOR CAR INDUSTRY » * » » *

THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL HAS ACCEPTED THE PROPOSAL OF THE AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY TRAINING BOARD TO IMPLEMENT TRADE TESTING IN THE INDUSTRY IN 1989.

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD, MR HAROLD LEE, ANNOUNCED THIS AT A BEST APPRENTICE AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY THIS (WEDNESDAY) AFTERNOON.

THE BOARD IS PREPARING A SET OF DETAILED GUIDELINES FOR TRADE TESTING FOR THE PURPOSE OF ASSESSING AND VALIDATING THE SKILL LEVELS OF AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY WORKERS.

/fcR LEE ...........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER U, I987

MR LEE SAID THE TIME HAD COME TO VALIDATE THE SKILLS OF CRAFTSMEN TRAINED UNDER THE APPRENTICE TRAINING SCHEME SINCE ITS INCEPTION 10 YEAR AGO.

"THE BEST APPRENTICE COMPETITION, OPEN TO FINAL YEAR VEHICLE MECHANIC APPRENTICES, HAS PROVIDED THE BOARD WITH VALUABLE EXPERIENCE IN IMPLEMENTING TRADE TESTING," HE SAID.

"IT HAS ALSO PROVED USEFUL IN IDENTIFYING THE STRENGTHS AS WELL AS WEAKNESSES, AND SO KNOW WHERE TRAINING NEEDS TO BE STRENGTHENED," HE ADDED.

AFTER GOING THROUGH A SERIES OF THEORY AND PRACTICAL TESTS ON THE TRADE, MR MAK TAI-KWONG FROM DAH CHONG HONG WAS DECLARED THE BEST APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR, FROM AMONG 67 CONTESTANTS.

THE FIRST AND SECOND RUNNERS-UP WERE MR YIU KAM-CHEUNG AND MR MARK WING-LEONG, RESPECTIVELY. BOTH ARE APPRENTICED TO THE KOWLOON MOTOR BUS COMPANY.

PRIZES AND CERTIFICATES WERE PRESENTED BY THE VTC’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MR HORACE KNIGHT, AND THE VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE MOTOR TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG, MR J.D. RUSHWORTH.

---------0-----------

SECOND CHOLERA CASE CONFIRMED » » » » ♦

A 19-YEAR-OLD MAN VISITING HONG KONG WAS TODAY (WEDNESDAY) CONFIRMED TO BE A CHOLERA CASE - THE SECOND CASE REPORTED THIS YEAR.

THE PATIENT WHO ARRIVED FROM NEPAL ON OCTOBER 28, BEGAN TO DEVELOP DIARRHOEA ON OCTOBER 31. HE WAS ADMITTED TO QUEEN ELIZABETH HOSPITAL ON NOVEMBER 1 AFTER HE ATTENDED THE ACCIDENT AND EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT.

THE MAN WAS TRANSFERRED TO PRINCESS MARGARET HOSPITAL ON NOVEMBER 2 AFTER HE WAS SUSPECTED TO BE SUFFERING FROM CHOLERA.

RESULTS OF HIS STOOL TEST TODAY REVEALED THAT HE WAS SUFFERING FROM CHOLERA EL TOR. HIS CONDITION IS DESCRIBED AS SATISFACTORY TODAY.

HEALTH WORKERS FROM THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT HAD VISITED THREE GUEST HOUSES IN TSIM SHA TSUI WHERE THE PATIENT HAD STAYED. ONE CONTACT WAS GIVEN MEDICAL EXAMINATION AND PREVENTIVE DRUGS. THE PREMISES WERE DISINFECTED BY URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT WORKERS.

/the CASE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER k, 1?87 - 51 -

THE CASE WAS CLASSIFIED AS AN IMPORTED CASE SINCE THE PATIENT CAME FROM NEPAL.

■ • * £ f •!

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID CHOLERA EL TOR IS ENDEMIC IN THIS PART OF THE WORLD AND THE REPORT OF THIS CASE SHOULD SERVE AS A REMINDER THAT TH! DISEASE IS PRESENT IN THIS REGION.

a r

THE LAST CHOLERA CASE REPORTED IN HONG KONG WAS IN SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR. THE VICTIM WAS A 16-YEAR-OLD BOY LIVING IN SAN PO KONG.

ROAD SAFETY MESSAGE SPREAD IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT

*****

MEMBERS OF THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN ORGANISING COMMITTER TODAY (WEDNESDAY) VISITED VARIOUS BUSY STREETS IN THE DISTRICT TO PUT ACROSS THE ROAD SAFETY MESSAGE AMONG PEDESTRIANS, ESPECIALLY JAYWALKERS.

LED BY THE COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR MAN HONG-MING, THE GROUP VISITED THE AP LEI CHAU ESTATE AND BUSY SPOTS ALONG ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD, TIN WAN STREET AND TANG FUNG STREET AND DISTRIBUTED THOUSANDS OF COPIES OF A ROAD SAFETY LEAFLET.

THE LEAFLET, WHICH WAS PUBLISHED BY THE COMMITTEE, SET OUT IN LIVELY CARTOONS THE DO’S AND DON’TS IN CROSSING A ROAD.

IT ALSO STRESSED THAT JAYWALKING NOT ONLY PUT ONE’S OWN LIFE ■ AT RISK, IT WAS ALSO. AN OFFENCE IN LAW.

TN ADDITION T(i'JTODAY’S PUBLICITY DRIVE, THE COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A CARNIVAL, "SOUTHERN DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY DAY", THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8.

THE CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD FROM 2 PM TO 5 PM AT THE WONG CHUK HANG HARD-SURFACED SOCCER PITCH.

IT WILL FEATURE A ROAD SAFETY BUS, A ROAD SAFETY TOWN, PERFORMANCES BY REI OWNED ARTISTS, ACROBATIC CYCLING AND LION-DANCES.

THERE WILL ALSO BE A HOST OF GAME STALLS, FOR WHICH FREE GAMES TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 5-540271.

0-------- /52.......................

• •'

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1987

- 52 -

ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN TO BEGIN IN KWAI * ♦ » * *

RESIDENTS OF KWAI CHUNG AND TSING YI INVITED TO TAKE PART IN A ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL TO (NOVEMBER 7) AT THE HING FONG ROAD PLAYGROUND.

TSING

DISTRICT ARE BEING BE HELD ON SATURDAY

APART FROM STALL GAMES, THE CARNIVAL WILL FEATURE A ROAD SAFETY RUS DISPLAY AND AN EXHIBITION OF THE WINNING ENTRIES 0 > RO ■ SAFETY DRAWING COMPETITION AND A SLOGAN DESIGN COMPETITION.

THE CARNIVAL, BEGINNING AT 10 AM, WILL MARK THE OPENING OF THE DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN WHICH AIMS AT PROMOTING RESIDENTS’ AWARENESS OF ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES.

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BRIAN COAK; KWAI CHUNG POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR E.H.EVANS; POLICE SENIOR STAFF OFFICER (NT TRAFFIC), MR I.M.BLAIR-AND KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR HO TUNG-CHING.

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE, MR CHAN KWOK-WAH, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN, MR SIU KONG-YU, WILL ALSO BE PRESENT.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOl ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN TO BE HELD AT 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER ) AT THE HING FONG ROAD PLAYGROUND (NEAR KWAI FONG MTR STATION), KWAI CHUNG,

-----o -------

KWAI CHUNG AND TSING YI DISTRICT BOARD MEETING

*****

THE KWAI CHUNG AND TSING YI DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET TOMORROW (THURSDAY) TO DISCUSS THE TAXI POLICY REVIEW, REDEVELOPMENT OF KWAI FONG ESTATE, AND ENVIRONMENTAL AND TRAFFIC IMPACTS AFTER THE COMPLETION OF THE ROUTE 5 HIGHWAY PROJECT. CLEARANCE ARRANGEMENTS FOR A NUMBER OF TEMPORARY HOUSING AREAS AND VILLAGES WILL ALSO BF DISCUSSED.

OCHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA ARE A PROPOSED OFF-COURSE BETTING CENTRE AT TSING YI GARDEN AND A PROPOSED CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT PLANT ON TSING YI .

THE MEETING WILL BE HELD AT 2.30 PM IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM, 10/F, KWAI HING GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, KWAI CHUNG.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE KWAI CHUNG VI) TSING VI DISTRICT HOARD TO BE HELD AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW IN Till CONFERENCE ROOM, 10/F, KWAI HING GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING (NEXT IO KWAI HING MTR STATION), KWAI CHUNG.

-----o------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING :

HONG KONG PEOPLE WILL COPE DESPITE CRISES ................... 1

GOVT URGED TO IMPROVE PEOPLE'S QUALITY OF LIFE .............. 3

CLOSED CAMP POLICY MUST REMAIN .............................. 6

EDUCATION SEEMS TO HAVE LOST SACRED AIM ..................... 7

BILINGUAL TRAINING SHOULD BE CONTINUED ...................... 9

EDUCATION AN IMPORTANT FOUNDATION FOR SOCIETY .............. 11

MEANS TEST FOR OLD AGE ALLOWANCE CRITICISED................. 12

CONTROL CN CHINESE TRADITIONAL MEDICINE URGED .............. 15

GENETIC COUNSELLING SHOULD BE EXPANDED ..................... 17

COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL WELFARE POLICY URGED .................. 18

REMEDIAL MEASURES NO SUBSTITUTE FOR CPF .................... 22

SPECIAL TEAM ON BN(O) PASSPORT SUGGESTED ................... 25

ANTI-II EFFORTS UNDER CONTINUOUS REVIEW ...................... 29

JVC'S REPORT ON MISSING BARS CONSIDERED BY GOVT............... 29

JAIL SENTENCE FOR IMPORTING MEAT WITHOUT PERMISSION........ JO

SECOND QUARTER SHIPPING, PORT .W CARGO STATISTICS RELEASED J1 OFFENDERS GIVEN CONSTRUCTIVE CORRECTIONAL PROGRAMMES ......... 53

MARINE CHIEF GIVES ADVICE TO SEA SCHOOL GRADUATES ............ 34

COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB TO BREAK WORID RECORD ................... 36

YMT COMMUNITY CENTRE TO HOLD OPEN DAY......................... 37

REMEMBRANCE Day ceremony AT CENOTAPH ......................... 38

YUEN LONG DB CULTURE COMMITTEE TO MEET ....................... 39

VARIETY SHOW WILL START SHAM SHUT PO FESTIVAL ................ 39

SPEEDPOST WEIGHT INCREASE .................................... 40

FREE JAZZ AND POPULAR MUSIC CONCERT .......................... 40

560 TO TAKE PaRT IN TUEN MUN nTHLETIC MEET ................... 40

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF TSING YI BRIDGE ......................... 41

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

HONG KONG PEOPLE WILL COPE DESPITE CRISES * * * *

HONG KONG HAS ENJOYED ANOTHER GOOD YEAR IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS DUE TO THE HONG KONG-U.S. DOLLAR LINK, WHICH BENEFITS BOTH EMPLOYERS AND^EMPLOYEES, THE HON CHAN KAM-CHUEN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, MR CHAN SAID THAT RE-EXPORTS MIGHT MAKE HONG KONG THE NO. 1 CONTAINER PORT IN THE WORLD.

DESPITE THE DARK CLOUD OF PROTECTIONISM ON THE HORIZON, HE SAID, HONG KONG HAD PASSED THROUGH MANY CRISES AND OUR PEOPLE WOULD BE ABLE TO COPE WITH THEM.

ON THE STOCK MARKET, MR CHAN SAID THE SLUMP OF SHARE MARKETS AROUND THE WORLD HAD ALREADY TAKEN ITS TOLL AND MIGHT LEAD TO A DEPRESSION IN CONSUMER SPENDING.

HE SAID IF SMALL INVESTORS IN THE MARKET DID NOT TAKE THEIR PROFITS BY INSTALMENTS WHEN PRICES WENT UP AND SCRIP WAS SHORT, THEY WOULD BE UNABLE TO SELL THEM QUICKLY TO MINIMISE THEIR LOSS.

HE ALSO SAID THAT THE STOPPAGE OF THE STOCK MARKET REMINDED HIM OF THE IMPORTANT ISSUE RAISED IN HIS SPEECH ON NOVEMBER 27, 1985 -WHETHER "HOUSE RULES ARE ABOVE THE LAW OF THE LAND".

TURNING TO TRANSPORT, MR CHAN SAID ALTHOUGH MOST OF THE DENSELY POPULATED AREAS OF HONG KONG WERE OR WOULD SHORTLY BE SERVED BY SOME FORM OF RAPID, AIR-CONDITIONED AND SMOOTH-RIDING MASS TRANSIT SYSTEM, THE PUBLIC IN EAST KOWLOON HAD YET TO GET FOR SUCH SERVICE.

HE SAID IF ONE LOOKED AT A MAP OF EAST KOWLOON, ONE WOULD FIND FROM THE SOUTHERN TIP OF TSIM SHA TSUI TO THE AIRPORT AND BEYOND, FERRY TERMINALS, CULTURAL CENTRES, HOTELS, RESTAURANTS, TRAIN TERMINAL, AIRPORT AND COMMERCIAL CENTRES FREQUENTED BY TOURISTS AND LOCAL PEOPLE AS WELL AS RESIDENTIAL AREAS.

"NO DOUBT THE HEAVY CAPITAL INVOLVED IS A MAJOR CONSIDERATION," HE SAID. "FROM EXPERIENCE, A SYSTEM ON THE GROUND OR OVERHEAD IS SEVERAL TIMES CHEAPER THAN AN UNDERGROUND SYSTEM."

HOWEVER, MR CHAN SAID MODERN LOW NOISE SYSTEMS WERE AVAILABLE AND GOVERNMENT SHOULD GIVE THIS SERIOUS CONSIDERATION.

ON THE MISUNDERSTANDING THAT THE KCRC AND MTRC WERE MAKING HUGE PROFITS AND YET INCREASED FARES, MR CHAN SAID IF ONE READ THEIR ANNUAL REPORTS AND ACCOUNTS CAREFULLY, THERE WERE STILL HEAVY DEBTS OR INTEREST WHICH REQUIRED PAYMENT.

/"ON TOP

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

”ON TOP OF THESE OBLIGATIONS, THERE IS THE ANNUAL INCREASE OF PAY, INFLATION FOR SUPPLIES AND SERVICES. IF ONE DOES NOT TAKE THESE FACTORS INTO SERIOUS CONSIDERATION, IT WOULD MEAN A DIMINISHING ANNUAL RETURN AND SOONER OR LATER IT WOULD RUN INTO FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES,” HE SAID.

ON VOCATIONAL TRAINING, MR CHAN SAID SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 1982 THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL HAD MADE RAPID PROGRESS IN TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PLACES IN TECHNICAL INSTITUTES HAD BEEN DOUBLED.

"BUT EQUALLY IMPRESSIVE IS THE 18,000 OR SO PLACES FOR SKILL TRAINING WHICH THE COUNCIL HAS BROUGHT INTO BEING IN THE TRAINING CENTRES IT HAD ESTABLISHED," HE SAID.

"HAVING THE ABILITY TO BRING INTO EXISTENCE ADDITIONAL TRAINING PLACES IS IMPORTANT. BUT WHAT IS MORE IMPORTANT IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING ECONOMY, IN WHICH THE VARIOUS SECTORS WITHIN THE ECONOMY ARE CHANGING AT VARYING RATES, IS THAT THE MANPOWER TRAINING SYSTEM MUST, IF IT IS TO SERVICE THE ECONOMY, HAVE THE FLEXIBILITY TO REACT QUICKLY TO THE CHANGES."

MR CHAN SAID HE WAS GLAD THAT THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL HAD BEEN ENDOWED WITH THIS FLEXIBILITY BY THE WAY WHICH THE GOVERNMENT IN ITS WISDOM HAD DECIDED TO FINANCE IT FROM THE VERY OUTSET.

ON THE NUCLEAR POWER PLANT, MR CHAN SAID HE WAS NOT SHOCKED BY THE MISSING STEEL RODS IN THE DAYA BAY PROJECT, AS HE HAD POINTED OUT IN HIS SPEECH ON JULY 16, 1986 "THAT DUE TO HUMAN ERRORS, COMPUTER FAULTS AND UNFORESEEN REASONS, THERE IS NO ABSOLUTE SAFETY".

"TO EXPLAIN AWAY THIS BLUNDER, IT WAS SAID THAT SIMILAR INCIDENTS HAD HAPPENED BEFORE IN SUCH PROJECTS.

"DOES THIS MEAN THAT ONE DOES NOT LEARN FROM PAST ERRORS BUT PERPETUATES THEM?

"IF SHAKESPEARE LIVES TO THIS DAY, HE MAY HAVE TO REWRITE JULIUS CAESAR, FOR THOSE WHO TOLD THE PUBLIC THAT NUCLEAR POWER IS SAFE, AS 'YET BRUTUS SAYS IT IS SAFE AND BRUTUS IS AN HONOURABLE MAN, SO ARE THEY ALL, ALL HONOURABLE MEN’."

MR CHAN SAID WE COULD NOW ONLY PRAY THAT NO HUMAN ERRORS AND DELAYED ADVICE AROSE WERE MADE IN OPERATIONS IN FUTURE.

ON TELECOMMUNICATIONS, HE SAID WE MUST GET THE ANSWER RIGHT IN RESPECT OF CABLE TELEVISION.

"THE HONG KONG PUBLIC WILL NOT RECEIVE KINDLY THE SERVICES OF A NEWCOMER WHO CANNOT EVEN RENDER A BILL CORRECTLY AND HAS BEEN OUT BY AS MUCH AS SIX FIGURES IN STERLING," HE SAID.

-------0-------- /J....................

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- 3

GOVT URGED TO IMPROVE PEOPLE’S QUALITY OF LIFE

*****

IT IS OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE THAT EVERY POSSIBLE MEASURE IS TAKEN TO MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE VAST ? ITY OF HONG ,KONG PEOPLE WHO WILL NOT LEAVE THE TERRITORY BUT WII..1 CONTINUE TO STAY HERE IN THE NEAR AND LONG-TERM FUTURE. THE HON EDW IM' HO SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ADDRESS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR HO SAID IT WAS HEARTENING TO LISTEN TO THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON’S CLEAR MESSAGE THAT HE WAS RESOLVED TO PRESS ON WITH THE TASK OF MAKING HONG KONG A MORE PROSPEROUS HOME FOR ALL PEOPLE.

ON THE PROVISION OF HOUSING, MR HO NOTED THAT THE PATTERN OF DEMAND FOR HOUSING HAD BEEN CHANGING IN RECENT YEARS AS THE LOCAL POPULATION BECAME MORE AFFLUENT.

THERE WAS A GROWING NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO WANTED TO OWN THEIR OWN HOMES OR LOOKED FOR BETTER QUALITY HOUSING, HE SAID, ADDING THAT THE LONG TERM HOUSING STRATEGY WAS AIMED AT PROVIDING HOMES FOR AN ADDITIONAL ONE MILLION FAMILIES, PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS COMBINED, BY 2001.

"THIS MAMMOTH TASK REQUIRES A HIGHLY EFFICIENT AND FLEXIBLE HOUSING AUTHORITY SO THAT IT CAN MONITOR AND DIRECT AN OVERALL HOUSING PROGRAMME IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE PRIVATE SECTOR," HE SAID.

MR HO SAID IT WAS THEREFORE A LOGICAL AND REASONABLE STEP FORWARD TO ALLOW THE HOUSING AUTHORITY TO HAVE GREATER AUTONOMY AND FLEXIBILITY TO ACCOMPLISH THIS OBJECTIVE.

THE PROPOSED NEW FORMAT OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY WAS THAT THE AUTHORITY WOULD BE CHAIRED BY AN UNOFFICIAL, INSTEAD OF THE SECRETARY FOR HOUSING AS IN THE PAST.

THIS, HE BELIEVED, WAS IN LINE WITH THE OPENING UP OF THE GOVERNMENT AND WOULD MAKE THE HOUSING AUTHORITY MORE ACCOUNTABLE TO THE PUBLIC.

TURNING TO URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL, MR HO FELT THAT THERE WAS A LOT TO BE SAID IN THE HARBOUR RECLAMATION SCHEMES BEING PLANNED AT HUNG HOM, WESTERN KOWLOON, CENTRAL DISTRICT AND KENNEDY TOWN, AS THESE WOULD TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE PROXIMITY OF THE MAIN CITY FABRIC IN TERMS OF TRANSPORT, INFRASTRUCTURE AND ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES.

HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S DEPLORABLE PARTS OF OUR URBAN ESTABLISHMENT OF A LAND DEVELOPMENT MECHANISM TO REDEVELOP THE BLIGHTED

DETERMINATION TO IMPROVE AREA WAS MOST WELCOME.

CORPORATION WOULD SERVE AS A AREAS IN THE URBAN DISTRICTS.

THE THE KEY

/HE NOTED,

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5» 198?

HE NOTED, HOWEVER, THAT THERE WERE CONCERNS THAT THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MIGHT BECOME A BIG DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATION COMPETING WITH THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN AREAS WHERE PRIVATE DEVELOPERS COULD PERHAPS OPERATE MORE EFFICIENTLY. <

"WE MUST BE CAREFUL NOT TO ALLOW THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION TO GROW MORE THAN IS NECESSARY," HE SAID.

HE NOTED THAT THE CORPORATION SHOULD BE KEPT SMALL AND EFFICIENT. "ITS MAJOR FUNCTION SHOULD BE CONFINED TO THE ASSEMBLY OF LAND WHERE AND WHEN PRIVATE DEVELOPERS ARE UNABLE TO DO SO. AFTER THIS IS DONE, INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS SHOULD BEST BE DELEGATED, WHERE POSSIBLE, TO PRIVATE DEVELOPERS OR BE UNDERTAKEN AS JOINT VENTURES WITH THEM.

"AS IN OUR HOUSING PROGRAMME, RESOURCES FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR SHOULD BF. EXPLOITED TO THE FULL. THE CORPORATION SHOULD, HOWEVER, KEEP A MONITORING ROLE TO ENSURE THAT THE QUALITY AND OBJECTIVES OF THE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS WILL BE MET."

ON NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT, MR HO SAID HIS OWN OBSERVATION WAS THAT HONG KONG'S TOWN PLANNERS HAD, ON THE WHOLE, ENJOYED

CONSIDERABLE SUCCESS TN THE MASTER-PLANNING OF THE NEW TOWNS SO THAT THEY WERE SELF-CONTAINED COMMUNITIES WITH THE RIGHT MIX OF

RESIDENTIAL, WORK PLACES, EDUCATIONAL AND PUBLIC FACILITIES.

SHORTCOMINGS, IF ANY, HAD BEEN IN THE TIMELY CO-ORDINATION OF VARIOUS FACILITIES AS RESIDENTS MOVED INTO THE NEW TOWNS, HE NOTED.

"1 MUST ADMIT THAT THIS IS A VERY DIFFICULT PROCESS INVOLVING THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF SENSITIVITY IN PROGRAMMING AND CO-ORDINATION BETWEEN VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, THE HOUSING AUTHORITY, WHICH IS USUALLY THE PRIME MOVER OF RESIDENTS, AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR," HE SAID.

HE ADDED THAT THE RECENT DECISION TO GO AHEAD WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF BOTH PHASES OF JUNK BAY TO ACCOMMODATE ITS ULTIMATE POPULATION OF 325,000 PEOPLE MEANT THAT TIMELY PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM SHOULD BE PLANNED, IN ADDITION TO THE TWIN-TUBED JUNK BAY TUNNEL.

ON TRANSPORT SERVICES, MR HO SAID THIS WAS AN AREA WHICH NEEDED CONSTANT IMPROVEMENT TO KEEP PACE WITH HONG KONG'S DEVELOPMENT.

THE CURRENT CONGESTION AT THE LION ROCK TUNNEL WAS ANOTHER LESSON TN PLANNING THE FUTURE TRANSPORT SYSTEM, HE SAID.

"IF WE DO NOT HEED THIS LESSON, NOT MANY YEARS AWAY WE MAY HAVE TO SCRATCH OUR HEADS TO SOLVE TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT THE JUNK BAY TUNNEL OR ON THE TUEN MUN HIGHWAY."

/ANOTHER AREA

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5. 1987

ANOTHER AREA OF PARTICULAR INTEREST TO HIM WAS THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEM IN THE NORTHWESTERN PART OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.

HE SAID: "WE HAVE JUST LEARNED THE WELCOME NEWS THAT THE LRT WILL PROVIDE A LINK TO TIN SHUI WAI. WE SHOULD NOT BE CAUGHT UNPREPARED WHEN THE NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME AT TIN SHUI WAI IS COMPLETE,WHICH WILL BOOST THE POPULATION SIZE TREMENDOUSLY IN THAT DISTRICT."

HE ALSO NOTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HOPED TO REACH A DECISION CONCERNING THE PROVISION OF A FIXED RAIL LINK BETWEEN THE NORTHWESTERN PART OF THE NEW TERRITORIES WITH THE MAIN URBAN AREA BEFORE THE END OF NEXT YEAR. HE CONSIDERED THIS SHOULD BE TREATED AS A MATTER OF URGENCY.

ON PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENTS, MR HO SAID IT WAS DISAPPOINTING TO HEAR THAT THE JOINT PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STUDY WOULD ONLY BE COMPLETED BY THE LATE SUMMER OF 19B9, ALMOST TWO YEARS AWAY. ONLY THEN THE GOVERNMENT WOULD BE ABLE TO MAKE SOME ’FUNDAMENTAL DECISIONS’.

KAI TAK AIRPORT, WITH ITS SINGLE RUNWAY, DEFINITELY COULD NOT MEET THE FUTURE DEMAND FOR AIR TRAFFIC. THE ONLY QUESTION WAS HOW LONG COULD IT HOLD ON BEFORE IT REACHED ITS FULL CAPACITY, AND ADVERSE EFFECTS BEGAN TO EMERGE, HE SAID.

"THE URGENCY FOR A REPLACEMENT AIRPORT IS AUGMENTED BY THE FACT THAT THE PRESENT KAI TAI AIRPORT HAS BEEN CREATING NUMEROUS NOISE POLLUTION PROBLEMS, NOT TO MENTION THE HINDRANCE TO THE DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL OF KOWLOON," HE SAID.

FINALLY, HE POINTED OUT THAT AS 1997 DREW NEAR, THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA WOULD INEVITABLY BECOME CLOSER.

ALL OUR LARGE SCALE PROJECTS IN THE YEARS AHEAD WOULD HAVE TO BE CONSIDERED AGAINST THE IMPACT OF, AND THE RELATIONSHIP WITH, DEVELOPMENT IN CHINA, PARTICULARLY IN THE PEARL RIVER DELTA AREA. THIS WAS ESPECIALLY SIGNIFICANT IN AREAS LIKE TRANSPORT, COMMUNICATION, AVIATION AND TRADE.

THE CHINA FACTOR WAS THEREFORE SOMETHING WHICH WE MUST TAKE INTO ACCOUNT IN MAPPING OUT THE PLANS FOR OUR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS, HE NOTED.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

6 -

CLOSED CAMP POLICY MUST REMAIN ♦ * * * *

HONG KONG MUST RETAIN ITS CLOSED CAMP POLICY ON THE VIETNAMESE REFUGEE ISSUE UNTIL AN EFFECTIVE WAY CAN BE FOUND TO STOP THESE PEOPLE FROM LANDING IN THE TERRITORY, THE HON RITA FAN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).

SPEAKING DURING THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, MRS FAN SAID: "WE CANNOT AFFORD TO ABOLISH THE CLOSED CAMP POLICY BECAUSE THE PROSPERITY OF OUR CITY ECONOMY, COUPLED WITH THE FREEDOM OF OPEN CAMP, MAY WELL BE TOO STRONG A MAGNET FOR ECONOMIC IMMIGRANTS FROM VIETNAM."

"THE CONSEQUENCE CAN EASILY BE AN INFLUX WHICH WILL BE TOO MUCH FOR HONG KONG TO HANDLE," SHE ADDED.

MRS FAN SAID THE ADMINISTRATION SHOULD CONTINUE TO PURSUE THE MATTER OF REPATRIATION, WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT AND OTHER COUNTRIES.

SHE REPORTED THAT THE LEGCO AD HOC GROUP ON VIETNAMESE REFUGEES HAD ASKED THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY FOR A REPORT ON THE PROGRESS OF REPATRIATION IN SIX MONTHS’ TIME.

MINDFUL OF THE POSSIBILITY THAT SATISFACTORY PROGRESS MIGHT NOT ACHIEVED BY THE END OF THAT PERIOD, MRS FAN SAID THE GROUP HAD ALSO SUGGESTED TO THE ADMINISTRATION THAT THE PRESENT POLICY OF HONG KONG BEING A PLACE OF FIRST ASYLUM SHOULD BE CAREFULLY REVIEWED.

ON EDUCATION, MRS FAN URGED THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TO TAKE MORE POSITIVE MEASURES TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN TEACHERS AND PARENTS OF PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS.

SHE EXPRESSED CONCERN OVER THE GROWING TREND AMONG SOME PRIMARY STUDENTS TO BECOME LESS RESPONSIVE TO TEACHERS’ INSTRUCTIONS, MORE MATERIALISTIC, AND INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT TO TEACH.

"AS THESE STUDENTS MOVE INTO THE SECONDARY SECTOR, IT WILL BE EVEN MORE DIFFICULT TO CHANGE THEIR WAYS," SHE POINTED OUT.

MRS FAN BELIEVED THAT AN EFFECTIVE WAY TO PREVENT CHILDREN FROM DEVELOPING BAD HABITS AND UNDESIRABLE TRAITS WAS FOR TEACHERS AND PARENTS TO WORK TOGETHER AND PROVIDE MUTUAL SUPPORT.

"AS A MATTER OF POLICY, ALL PRIMARY SCHOOLS SHOULD AT LEAST SET ASIDE ONE DAY, A NORMAL SCHOOL DAY, FOR TEACHERS AND PARENTS TO DISCUSS INDIVIDUALLY THE PROGRESS OF EACH PUPIL," SHE SAID.

/"THE STRENGTHENING

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 198?

"THE STRENGTHENING OF TEACHER-PARENT COMMUNCIATION AND CO-OPERATION WILL HELP TO REDUCE UNRULY BEHAVIOUR AMONG PUPILS IN THE PRIMARY SECTOR,‘WHICH WILL, IN TURN, BENEFIT THE SECONDARY SECTOR," SHESAID.

TURNING TO THE GOVERNMENT’S TAXATION POLICY, MRS FAN REQUESTED the financial Secretary to re-examine the merits of separate taxation FOR MARRIED COUPLES IN THE NEXT BUDGET.

SHE FOUND IT GROSSLY UNFAIR THAT A PARTICULAR GROUP OF TAXPAYERS SHOULD SUFFER A HIGHER TAX LIABILITY SIMPLY BECAUSE THEY HAD MARRIED AND CONTINUED TO WORK.

"IF SEPARATE TAXATION COMES INTO BEING, AND WITH THE PRESENT LABOUR SHORTAGE, HOUSEWIVES WHO ARE NOT WORKING NOW MAY WELL BE ATTRACTED INTO EMPLOYMENT, AS THEY CAN BENEFIT FROM THE SALARY THEY EARN WITHOUT PUSHING THEIR HUSBAND'S TAX INTO A HIGHER BRACKET," SHE SAID. ,

THE MOVE OF THESE PEOPLE INTO THE LABOUR FORCE MIGHT WELL RESULT IN AN INCREASE IN TAX INCOME WHICH COULD COMPENSATE FOR THE ESTIMATED LOSS OF $400 MILLION PER ANNUM IN GOVERNMENT REVENUE.

SHE URGED THE ADMINISTRATION, IN CONSIDERING THE MATTER, TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF THE PREVAILING TREND TOWARDS SEPARATE TAXATION IN OTHER COUNTRIES AS '1,1. AS THE LOCAL LABOUR SHORTAGE.

- - 0 --------

EDUCATION SEEMS TO HAVE LOST SACRED AIM ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE HON PAULINE NG SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT SHE WAS SURPRISED THAT THE GOVERNOR HAD SUGGESTED THAT THE AIM OF OPEN EDUCATION WAS TO PROVIDE QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY.

SPEAKING DURING THE ANNUAL POLICY DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, SHE SAID IT WAS MORE PREFERABLE TO SHIFT THE EMPHASIS TO ’’EDUCATION FOR EDUCATION’S SAKE”, THAN TO EMPHASISE TOO MUCH THE ECONOMIC ROLE OF EDUCATION.

’’EDUCATION SEEMS TO HAVE LOST ITS SACRED AIM TO EDUCATE A PERSON AND HAS GIVEN WAY TO TRAINING UP A TOOL FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT,” SHE SAID.

/’’IT IS

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 198?

- 8 -

, "IT IS EVEN MORE DANGEROUS IF THE EDUCATION SYSTEM ONLY PRODUCES TRAINED PROFESSIONALS WHO STAND BETTER CHANCES OF LEAVING HONG KONG AS 1997 APPROACHES," SHE ADDED.

MRS NG SAID SHE WAS WORRIED THAT THE ENTIRE HONG KONG ECONOMY WOULD SUFFER FROM THE LOSS OF THE PROFESSIONAL PEOPLE.

SHE CRITICISED THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS FOR LACKING AN OVERALL AND THOROUGH PLAN FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPROVEMENT OF THE ENTIRE EDUCATION SYSTEM.

SHE SAID THAT THE ADDRESS ONLY DEALT WITH THE TERTIARY EDUCATION SECTOR BUT NO MENTION HAD BEEN MADE ABOUT THE SECTOR’S RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LOWER, BUT FUNDAMENTAL, AND THEREFORE IMPORTANT STAGES OF EDUCATION.

SHE FELT THAT INSTEAD OF PUTTING TOO MUCH EMPHASIS ON THE PROVISION OF MORE HIGHER EDUCATION PLACES, STEPS SHOULD BE TAKEN TO DEAL WITH THE URGENT NEED TO PRODUCE A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF THE NINE-YEAR FREE EDUCATION SYSTEM AND THE UPPER SECONDARY SYSTEM.

SHE SAID THE QUESTION OF SUBSIDISING AND IMPROVING THE SERVICE PROVIDED BY PRE-PRIMARY INSTITUTIONS AS WELL AS THE NEED FOR PROVISION OF PROFESSIONAL TRAINING FOR PERSONS ENGAGED IN THIS SERVICE SHOULD HAVE BEEN GIVEN CONSIDERATION.

"AS THE GOVERNMENT IS AIMING AT BETTER CO-ORDINATION AND STREAM-LINING OF PROVISION OF PUBLIC SERVICES, IT IS CERTAINLY PERPLEXING TO HAVE PRE-PRTMARY EDUCATION DEALT WITH BY TWO DEPARTMENTS, NAMELY, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT," SHE SAID.

MRS NG REPEATED HER CALL FOR CENTRALISING THE CO-ORDINATION AND SUPERVISION OF PRE-PRIMARY SERVICES UNDER ONE DEPARTMENT, SO THAT THE PROVISION OF SERVICES COULD BE STANDARDISED.

SHE ALSO SUGGESTED THE FORMATION OF A WORKING PARTY TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF PRE-PRIMARY EDUCATION.

ON THE SUBJECT OF MEETING THE FINANCIAL NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY, MRS NG EXPRESSED. HER STRONG OBJECTION TO THE INCOME DECLARATION REQUIREMENT FOR NEW OLD AGE ALLOWANCE APPLICANTS.

SHE SAID THE NEW PRACTICE WOULD TURN THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE INTO A WELFARE HANDOUT INSTEAD OF A TOKEN OF RESPECT AND APPRECIATION OF ELDERLY PEOPLE’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO SOCIETY.

MOREOVER, IT WOULD TREAT DIFFERENTLY TWO GROUPS OF PEOPLE WITH THE SAME NEEDS, SINCE INCOME DECLARATION WOULD ONLY APPLY TO NEW APPLICANTS.

/therefore, SHE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- 9 -

THEREFORE, SHE URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO RETAIN THE NON-MEANS TESTED OLD AGE ALLOWANCE FOR THOSE AGED 70 AND ABOVE.

ON THE LABOUR SHORTAGE QUESTION, MRS NG FELT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CONSIDER OTHER MEASURES TO HELP ALLEVIATE THE PROBLEM, RATHER THAN LEAVING IT TO ADJUSTMENT BY MARKET FORCES.

"IN MY VIEW, THE PROBLEM CAN BE PARTIALLY SOLVED BY ATTRACTING MORE HOUSEWIVES TO JOIN THE LABOUR FORCE.

"IT IS THEREFORE TIME FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO RECONSIDER INTRODUCING SEPARATE TAX ASSESSMENT FOR COUPLES AND SPECIAL TAX ALLOWANCE FOR WORKING WOMEN," SHE SAID.

MRS NG ALSO COMMENTED THAT THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS FAILED TO INCLUDE SUFFICIENT DETAILS.

SHE RECOMMENDED THAT FUTURE POLICY SPEECHES SHOULD INCLUDE APPENDICES TO PROVIDE BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND RELEVANT STATISTICS.

-------o----------

BILINGUAL TRAINING SHOULD BE CONTINUED * * * * ♦

THE LANGUAGE ISSUE IS A MAJOR CHALLENGE FACING SCHOOLS IN HONG KONG, THE HON YEUNG PO-KWAN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).

SPEAKING DURING THE ANNUAL POLICY DEBATE, MR YEUNG SAID THE EDUCATION COMMISSION STRONGLY BELIEVED THAT BILINGUALISM WAS ESSENTIAL IF HONG KONG WAS TO RETAIN ITS POSITION AS A LEADING INTERNATIONAL CENTRE OF FINANCE, TRADE AND INDUSTRY. THEREFORE OUR EDUCATION SYSTEM SHOULD CONTINUE TO PROVIDE BILINGUAL TRAINING IN ORDER TO MEET SOCIAL NEEDS.

HE SAID AS THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT EMBARKED ON BILINGUAL LEGISLATION, HONG KONG WOULD INEVITABLY EVOLVE INTO A SOCIETY WITH A BILINGUAL LEGAL SYSTEM.

THERE WOULD ALSO BE A DEFINITE TREND FOR THE COURTS TO USE CHINESE MORE WIDELY. HOWEVER, HONG KONG WAS SHORT OF LEGAL PROFESSIONALS WHO WERE PROFICIENT IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE.

"IN THE INTEREST OF HONG KONG, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO DEVELOP THE LANGUAGE ABILITY OF OUR YOUNGER GENERATION, SO THAT THEY CAN HAVE A GOOD COMMAND OF BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE," HE ADDED.

/MR YEUNG

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5. 198?

MR YEUNG SAID, AT PRESENT, KNOWLEDGE ON THE USE OF COMPUTERS HAD PENETRATED INTO THE LIFE OF PEOPLE IN ALL SECTORS. ADULTS AND CHILDREN ALIKE HAD COME INTO CONTACT WITH A COMPUTER IN ONE WAY OR ANOTHER.

"PERHAPS THE GOVERNMENT MAY CONSIDER EXTENDING COMPUTER STUDIES TO THE PRIMARY EDUCATION CURRICULUM SO THAT PRIMARY STUDENTS CAN HAVE A PROPER KNOWLEDGE OF COMPUTER SCIENCE, APART FROM USING IT TO PLAY VIDEO GAMES," HE SAID.

MR YEUNG SAID COMPUTER STUDIES HAD BEEN INCLUDED IN THE SENIOR SECONDARY EDUCATION CURRICULUM AND IN UNIVERSITY COURSES, YET NONE OF THE SCHOOLS IN HONG KONG OFFERED COMPUTER STUDIES FOR THEIR SIXTH FORM STUDENTS, RESULTING IN A PROBLEM OF COVERGENCE.

"HENCE THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CONSIDER INTRODUCING COMPUTER STUDIES INTO THE MATRICULATION COURSE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AND ACCEPTING IT AS A SUBJECT IN THE UNIVERSITY ENTRANCE EXAMINATIONS. ONLY BY DOING SO CAN COMPUTER EDUCATION BE PROMOTED TN A FULL SCALE," HR NOTED.

MR YEUNG ALSO SAID THAT HE WAS IN SUPPORT OF THE GOVERNMENT’S PLAN TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO 23 PRIVATE SCHOOLS. HE ADDED THAT IN LINE WITH SUCH A PLAN, THE PRIVATE SCHOOLS THEMSELVES SHOULD TAKE CONCERTED ACTION TO WORK FOR A HIGHER QUALITY OF EDUCATION.

ON ARTS AND CULTURE, MR YEUNG SAID THAT TO INDUCE GREATER AWARENESS ON THE PART OF STUDENTS TOWARDS THEIR SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT AS WELL AS TOWARDS A BETTER WAY OF LIFE, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD PROVIDE MORE VENUES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE PROMOTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL ARTS.

HE ADDED THAT VISUAL ARTS EDUCATION SHOULD BE ACCEPTED AS A SUBJECT IN SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS AND IN THE MATRICULATION COURSE.

AS FOR PERFORMING ARTS, HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD WORK OUT A POLICY SO THAT VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS COULD REACH A CONSENSUS TO MAKE THE BEST USE OF THE RESOURCES, WHEREBY THERE WOULD BE MORE PERFORMING COMPANIES, WITH BETTER STANDARDS.

MOREOVER, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD GIVE DUE CONSIDERATION TO THE EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS OF GRADUATES FROM THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS TO ALLAY THEIR FEAR ABOUT JOB OPPORTUNITIES.

TURNING TO JUVENILE DELINQUENCY, MR YEUNG SAID IN ORDER TO CONTAIN THE PROBLEM OF JUVENILE CRIME IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD FIRSTLY IMPROVE THE MAINTENANCE OF PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES; SECONDLY STRENGTHEN THE FUNCTION OF MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES; AND THIRDLY INCREASE THE MANPOWER OF AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR THE YOUTH CENTRES RUN BY VOLUNTARY BODIES IN THE HOUSING ESTATES, SO THAT THEY COULD EFFECTIVELY PROVIDE RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR RESIDENTS.

-------0----------

/11........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- 11 -

EDUCATION AN IMPORTANT FOUNDATION FOR SOCIETY

*****

HONG KONG WILL NEED TO PROVIDE AN ADEQUATE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION IN THE NEXT 10 YEARS FOR A SOCIETY WHICH WILL BE BASED ON THE CONCEPT OF "HONG KONG PEOPLE GOVERNING HONG KONG", DR THE HON DANIEL TSE SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).

SPEAKING DURING THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, DR TSE DESCRIBED MANPOWER AS THE IMPORTANT ASSET "ON WHICH OUR EXISTENCE DEPENDS AND WITH WHICH WE DEVELOP OUR ECONOMY".

IN THE EARLY DAYS BEFORE THE 1960’S , DR TSE SAID, HONG KONG'S EDUCATION SYSTEM HAD DEVELOPED IN A HAPHAZARD WAY, AND THOUGH SIGNIFICANT CHANGES TOOK PLACE IN THE 1970’S, SYSTEM-WIDE PLANNING WAS STILL LACKING.

"IF OUR PRESENT EDUCATION STRUCTURE STILL PREVENTS US FROM PLANNING OUR FUTURE EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACCORDING TO THE CLEARLY DEFINED SOCIETAL GOALS ON A SYSTEM-WIDE BASIS, THEN IT IS TIME FOR US TO FIND OUT WHY AND TO CLEAR THE OBSTACLES,” HE SAID.

"OTHERWISE, NO MATTER HOW GOOD IS THE PROMISE OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION, OR HOW SECURELY IS THE LEGAL GUARANTEE ENSHRINED IN THE BASIC LAW, OR HOW WELL DEVELOPED IS OUR FUTURE POLITICAL SYSTEM, IT WOULD STILL BE VERY DIFFICULT FOR US TO REALISE THE IDEAL OF ’HONG KONG PEOPLE GOVERNING HONG KONG’."

DR TSE SAID THE LLEWELLYN COMMITTEE, IN ITS REPORT IN 1982 ENTITLED "A PERSPECTIVE ON EDUCATION IN HONG KONG", MADE A SERIES OF RECOMMENDATIONS TO REMEDY DEFECTS TN THE EDUCATION SYSTEM.

"FIVE YEARS HAVE PASSED; IT IS NOW TIME FOR US TO HAVE AN INTERIM ASSESSMENT TO SEE WHETHER THE DEFECTS WHICH HAD BEEN POINTED OUT BY THE COMMITTEE IN OUR EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM HAVE BEEN CORRECTED," HE SAID.

"I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT AN ASSESSMENT OF THIS KIND AT THIS TIME IS VERY CRUCIAL BECAUSE THERE ARE ONLY 10 YEARS BEFORE 1997."

DR TSE SAID THE NEW DEVELOPMENTS MENTIONED BY THE GOVERNOR IN HIS POLICY ADDRESS ALSO REPRESENTED A CHALLENGE TO THE PRESENT EDUCATIONAL STRUCTURE, AND PROVIDED THE BEST REASON AND A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY FOR AN OVERHAUL.

HE SAID THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY HAD A UNIQUE EDUCATION MISSION AND WOULD BRING ABOUT A HIGHER LEVEL OF SCIENTIFIC AND TECHOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT FOR HONG KONG.

THE OPEN LEARNING INSTITUTE, HE ADDED, WAS A NEW ATTEMPT TO PROVIDE, ON A LARGE SCALE, WORKING ADULTS WITH A SECOND CHANCE FOR EDUCATION.

/THE COUNCIL

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 198?

- 12 -

THE COUNCIL FOR ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION WOULD GUARANTEE THAT OUR FUTURE ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND LEVELS WOULD GAIN INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION.

’’THESE MONUMENTAL EFFORTS PLUS YOUR OWN ESTIMATE OF THE DOUBLING OF DEGREE PLACES BY THE 1990’S HAVE CREATED A NEW HORIZON FOR HONG KONG HIGHER EDUCATION,” HE SAID.

ON THE LENGTH OF UNIVERSITY COURSES, DR TSE SAID IT WAS RELATED TO THE LEVEL OF ENTRY, AND THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS HAD A DIRECT BEARING ON THE STRUCTURE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION.

HE SAID THE OPPORTUNITY SHOULD BE TAKEN TO REVIEW THE LENGTH OF DEGREE COURSES TOGETHER WITH THE STRUCTURE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION AND ITS GOALS ON A SYSTEM-WIDE BASIS.

DR TSE URGED THE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS RESPONSIBLE, STATUTORY EDUCATIONAL BODIES, INSTITUTIONS ENGAGED IN EDUCATION, AND ALL SECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY WHICH HAD A CONCERN FOR EDUCATION, TO MAKE A JOINT EFFORT, NOT ONLY TO SOLVE THE THORNY PROBLEM OF THE LENGTH OF DEGREE COURSES, BUT ALSO TO REMEDY THE DEFECTS IN THE EDUCATION STRUCTURE.

"ONLY THEN WILL A PROPERLY DEVELOPED GOOD EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM be Established and which will, in turn, lead to a more prosperous and CIVILISED SOCIETY,” HE CONCLUDED.

--------0 ---------

MEANS TEST FOR OLD AGE ALLOWANCE CRITICISED ♦ * ♦ ♦

THE GOVERNMENT WAS TODAY (THURSDAY) PRAISED FOR REVISING UPWARD THE LEVELS OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE, OLD AGE ALLOWANCE OR SUPPLEMENT AND DISABILITY ALLOWANCE; EXPANDING BY PHASES THE SCOPE OF OLD AGE ALLOWANCE AND INTRODUCING A MEAL ALLOWANCE FOR CHILDREN IN FULL-TIME EDUCATION.

SPEAKING DURING THE ANNUAL POLICY DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, DR THE HON HO KAM-FAI SAID IMPROVEMENTS IN THOSE FORMS OF SOCIAL SECURITY PAYMENTS WOULD CERTAINLY ENABLE NEEDY PEOPLE TO LIVE IN DECENCY AND COMFORT.

HOWEVER, HE CRITICISED THE PROPOSED INCOME AND ASSET DECLARATION REQUIREMENT FOR THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE BY APPLICANTS WHO WERE 70 YEARS OLD AND ABOVE AND URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO RE-CONSIDER THAT REQUIREMENT.

DR HO SAID MOST OF THOSE APPLICANTS WERE NOT ACTIVE IN THE LABOUR FORCE AND THAT THE MEANS TEST HAD NO ECONOMIC JUSTIFICATION.

/’•RATHER, IT

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 198?

"RATHER, IT IS HUMILIATING TO OUR SENIOR CITIZENS WHO HAVE DONE THEIR PART IN BUILDING UP OUR ECONOMY AND COMMUNITY," HE NOTED.

DR HO POINTED OUT THAT SUCH NEGATIVE IMPLICATIONS.

A REQUIREMENT HAD A NUMBER OF

"IF THE DECLARATION IS ONLY A MATTER OF ROUTINE WITHOUT CAREFUL VERIFICATION BY THE ADMINISTRATION, IT WOULD INVITE PEOPLE TO DECEIVE AND WOULD CONDONE DISHONEST BEHAVIOUR. BUT IF THE CHECKING IS THOROUGH, THE ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS WILL BE ENORMOUS, HE SAID.

TO APPLY

THEMSELVES

FOR OF

"FURTHERMORE, THE NEEDY ELDERLY WOULD HESITATE THE SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS AND WOULD RATHER DEPRIVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEAD A DECENT LIVING. THUS, THE INCOME AND ASSET DECLARATION WILL DEFEAT THE PURPOSE OF THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE SCHEME.

DR HO SAID, THE EXPANDED OLD AGE ALLOWANCE AND THE IMPROVED PUBLIC ASSISTANCE, TOGETHER WITH OTHER LABOUR WELFARE MEASURES, WERE INTRODUCED AS A PACKAGE TO ENHANCE THE INCOME SECURITY THE RETIRED THE ELDERLY IN THE ABSENCE OF A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND.

AND

THE STIGMA ATTACHED TO THE INCOME DECLARATION WOULD THE NEEDY SENIOR CITIZENS TO COME FORWARD TO APPLY FOR Till' AND HENCE THEIR INCOME SECURITY NEEDS WOULD NOT BE MET AS

DISCOURAGE BENEFITS, INTENDED,

HE ADDED.

IN ADDITION, DR HO SAID, IT WAS IMPERATIVE FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO URGENTLY REASSESS THE PRIORITIES OF THE MUCH-NEEDED PERSONALISED WELFARE SERVICES AND TO UPGRADE THEIR PROVISION.

NEEDY FAMILIES, HE ADDED OFTEN REQUIRED A WIDE SPECTRUM OF PERSONAL AND WELFARE SERVICES TO MEET THEIR NEEDS.

"IMPROVED CASH BENEFITS ARISING FROM THE SECURITY MEASURES ARE MORE LIKELY TO IMPROVE THE LOT WHOSE PERSONAL NEEDS CAN BE READILY SATISFIED BY REQUIRED SERVICES IN THE OPEN MARKET," HE SAID.

IMPROVED

OF THOSE PURCHASE

SOCIAL

PEOPLE

OF THE

"BUT WHEN THE MORE PERSONALISED OR SPECIALISED SERVICES SHORT SUPPLY OR BARELY AVAILABLE, THE INCREASED CASH PAYMENTS SERVE TO PUSH UP THE PRICE OF THESE SERVICES," HE NOTED.

ARE IN

MERELY

DR HO ALSO CALLED FOR A POLICY IN THE INTEREST OF A MORE

REVIEW OF

CONGENIAL

GOVERNMENT AND FOUNDED ON AND AND EQUALITY.

THE SUBVERTED SOCIAL

WELFARE

THE CURRENT SUBVENTION

PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE

SECTOR, WHICH MUST BE

NURTURED IN THE SPIRIT OF MUTUAL

APPRECIATION, TRUST

, FRINGE BENEFITS GIVEN TO THE ONLY RECEIVED

UNDER THE CURRENT POLICY

STAFF OF SUBVERTED ORGAN I SATIORS WERE LIMITED AND THEY

A PART OF THOSE AWARDED TO THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN THE CIVIL SERVICE.

/HE SAID

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

HE SAID THAT THE BENEFITS TO WHICH THE CIVIL SERVANTS WERE ENTITLED SHOULD BE EXTENDED IN FULL TO THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN THE SUBVERTED SECTOR WHO HAD SIMILAR QUALIFICATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES.

DR HO SAID THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS WERE LIKELY TO BE ENORMOUS BUT THE EXTENSION COULD BE CARRIED OUT IN STAGES.

ON THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME, HE SAID THE EXISTING SCHEME WAS FAMILY-BASED AND REGARDED CHILDREN AS DEPENDENT MEMBERS OF A FAMILY UNIT. BUT THE LEVEL OF THE PROVISION WAS JUST SUFFICIENT FOR BARE SUBSISTENCE.

HE SAID HUMAN BEINGS WERE HONG KONG’S PRIMARY ASSETS, AND "WE MUST PRESERVE OUR PRECIOUS HUMAN RESOURCES, IN PARTICULAR OUR YOUNG.”

HE THEREFORE PROPOSED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CONSIDER A CHILDREN’S SUPPLEMENT OF $280 PER MONTH FOR ALL DEPENDENT CHILDREN UP TO THE AGE OF 17 YEARS OF A SINGLE-PARENT FAMILY RECEIVING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE.

HE ADDED THAT THE NEWLY PROPOSED $80 MEAL ALLOWANCE COULD BE DEDUCTED FROM THE SUPPLEMENT, AND THAT CHILDREN RECEIVING A DISABILITY ALLOWANCE OR IN FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT SHOULD NOT BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE SUPPLEMENT.

TURNING TO THE SENTENCING PATTERNS ADOPTED BY THE COURTS, DR HO NOTED ONE FINDING OF SIGNIFICANCE IN THE THIRD REPORT ON THE CRIME VICTIMISATION SURVEY DUE TO BE PUBLISHED SOON.

WITH REGARD TO THE TREATMENT OF OFFENDERS, A LARGE PROPORTION OF THE CRIME VICTIMS SURVEYED HELD THE VIEW THAT THE MOST APPROPRIATE SANCTION FOR CRIMINALS WAS IMPRISONMENT.

WARNING BY THE POLICE AND PROBATION WERE REGARDED AS ACCEPTABLE DETERRENTS BY SOME VICTIMS. VERY FEW VICTIMS SUPPORTED SUCH SENTENCES AS FINES OR PAYMENT FOR COMPENSATION.

HE SAID CRIME VICTIMS POLLED WERE NOT HAPPY WITH THE SENTENCING METED OUT BY THE COURTS. THEY WERE OF THE OPINION THAT THE PENALTIES WERE NOT AS PUNITIVE AS THEY WOULD LIKE THEM TO BE,AND THAT THE COURTS WERE APPARENTLY TOO PRONE TO DISPENSE NON-CUSTODIAL SENTENCES.

"ONCE THE LAW HAS BEEN FAIRLY INTERPRETED APPLIED TO THE DETERMINATION OF GUILT OR INNOCENCE, THE COURT, IN DECIDING ON THE LEVELS AND TYPES OF ATTEMPT TO REFLECT PUBLIC CONCERN," HE SAID.

AND IMPARTIALLY I BELIEVE THAT PENALTY, SHOULD

/"SUCH CONSIDERATION .......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- 15 -

"SUCH CONSIDERATION BY THE COURTS WILL BE CONDUCIVE TO BOOSTING PUBLIC CONFIDENCE IN THE JUDICIARY, RESULTING IN A GREATER RESPECT FOR AND COMPLIANCE WITH THE LAW BY THE PUBLIC,” HE ADDED.

FINALLY, DR HO SAID THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, BEING THE PRINCIPAL LAW OFFICER AND RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL PROSECUTIONS IN HONG KONG, SHOULD TAKE HEED OF THE PUBLIC VIEW QN THE SENTENCING PATTERNS AND THE LEVELS OF PENALTY AND TO HELP CONVEY THIS PUBLIC CONCERN TO THE JUDICIARY.

-----0------

CONTROL ON CHINESE TRADITIONAL MEDICINE URGED

*****

THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN URGED TO CONTROL THE PRACTICE OF CHINESE TRADITIONAL MEDICINE FOR THE BENEFIT AND PROTECTION OF PEOPLE SEEKING SUCH FORMS OF TREATMENT.

SPEAKING IN SUPPORT OF THE MOTION BEFORE THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY), DR THE HON HENRIETTA IP CALLED FOR THE SETTING UP OF A COMMITTEE WITH REPRESENTATION AND EXPERTS FROM THE Chinese traditional medical profession to look into the feasibility AND TO RECOMMEND WAYS, OF CONTROLLING THE PRACTICE WITHIN THREE TO FIVE YEARS.

AS A START, SHE SUGGESTED THERE SHOULD BE COMPULSORY APPLICATION FOR A LICENCE TO PRACTISE AND MANDATORY PURCHASE OF INSURANCE SUBSEQUENTLY LEADING ON TO THE SETTING UP OF A MINIMUM STANDARD OF QUALIFICATION REQUIRED FOR REGISTRATION TO PRACTISE, BUT ALLOWING A GRANDFATHER CLAUSE.

DR IP EXPLAINED THAT THE NEED TO CONTROL THE PRACTICE HAD BECOME MORE IMMINENT WITH THE CHANGING MEDICAL SCENE IN CHINA, WHERE ACUPUNCTURISTS WERE INJECTING STEROIDS WITH NEEDLES, BONE-SETTERS WERE USING X-RAYS AND HERBALISTS WERE PRESCRIBING CAPSULES AND AMPOULES.

SHE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT MEDICAL IMMIGRANTS FROM CHINA WERE NOW PRACTISING A CONCOCTION OF BOTH WESTERN AND CHINESE TRADITIONAL MEDICINE IN HONG KONG.

"WHERE THE WESTERN MEDICAL TREATMENT BEGINS AND THE CHINESE TRADITIONAL MEDICINE ENDS IS BECOMING BLURRED," SHE SAID.

IN HER OPINION, THE TWO TYPES OF PRACTICE SHOULD BE COMPLEMENTARY TO EACH OTHER AND NOT IN COMPETITION.

/"AT THE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- 16 -

"AT THE END OF THE DAY, THE SAFETY OF PATIENTS MUST COME FIRST," SHE SAID.

DR IP ALSO CRITICISED THE GOVERNMENT FOR APPLYING DOUBLE STANDARDS IN THIS PARTICULAR CASE.

"WHILE WE WILL BE INTRODUCING CONTROL OVER PHYSIOTHERAPISTS, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS AND TECHNICIANS WHO ASSIST WESTERN-TRAINED DOCTORS, WE ALLOW THE CHINESE TRADITIONAL MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS WHO WORK INDEPENDENTLY TO GO BY WITHOUT THE SLIGHTEST CONTROL," SHE SAID.

SHE POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS A KNOWN MEDICAL FACT THAT SOME HERBS, BONE SETTING AND ACUPUNCTURE DID GIVE RISE TO SERIOUS COMPLICATIONS, AND NO MATTER HOW LOW THE INCIDENCES MIGHT BE, IT WAS FAIR TO INSIST ON SOME FORM OF CONSUMER PROTECTION.

"IT IS THEREFORE A LAUGH, AND A SAD ONE, THAT WE ALLOW BY LEGISLATION ANY PERSON OF THE CHINESE RACE AND ORIGIN, IRRESPECTIVE OF TRAINING, EVEN AT THE LACK OF IT, TO CARRY OUT THESE THREE FORMS OF MEDICAL PRACTICE," SHE SAID.

EARLIER IN HER SPEECH, DR IP URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO IMPROVE SPORTS FACILITIES TN THE EDUCATION SYSTEM.

SHE SAID THAT SPORTS WERE IMPORTANT FOR ONE’S PHYSICAL AS WELL AS MENTAL HEALTH, BUT UNFORTUNATELY, THEY PLAYED A VERY INFERIOR ROLE IN THE LIFE OF CHILDREN IN HONG KONG. THIS WAS MAINLY DUE TO THE LACK OF SPACE AND THE BISESSIONAL CLASS SYSTEM IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS.

"DR IP SAID THAT A COMMITTEE CHAIRED BY HERSELF HAD COMPLETED A REPORT CONTAINING THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS:

* PROVIDE MANDATORY OPEN SPACE FOR KINDERGARTENS;

» DEVELOP EXTRACURRICULAR SPORTS ACTIVITIES IN PRIMARY

SCHOOLS AIMED AT MASS PARTICIPATION BUT WITH SPECIAL

EMPHASIS ON THOSE WITH LOWER PHYSICAL EDUCATION STANDARDS;

» INTRODUCE "SPORTS FOR ALL” IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS SO THAT ALL STUDENTS TAKE PART IN AT LEAST ONE SPORT. THIS IS DONE BY MEANS OF A SYSTEM OF ACCREDITED SCHOOL BASED SPORTS COACHES RATHER THAN TEACHERS;

» INTRODUCE PHYSICAL EDUCATION AS AN EXAMINABLE SUBJECT IN THE HKCEE AND LATER, SPORTS STUDIES IN THE HKALE;

» INTRODUCE A SPORTS-RELATED DEGREE PROGRAMME AT THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY AND THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC;

» EMPHASISE CAREER GUIDANCE AND IMPROVE THE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES OF THOSE GRADUATES; AND

* LAUNCH A PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN TO INCREASE THE AWARENESS OF THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SPORTS IN OUR LIVES AND THE WAYS OF PURSUING IT.

DR IP SAID THE REPORT WILL SOON BE PRESENTED TO THE GOVERNOR, MEMBERS OF THE EDUCATION COMMISSION, THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND OTHER RELEVANT BODIES FOR CONSIDERATION.

- 0 - -

- 17 -

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

GENETIC COUNSELLING SHOULD BE EXPANDED * * * *

THE GOVERNMENT WAS ASKED TODAY (THURSDAY) TO EXPAND AND PROMOTE GENETIC COUNSELLING AS A PART OF ITS PREVENTIVE MEDICAL CARE PROGRAMME.

THE CALL WAS MADE BY DR THE HON CHIU HIN-KWONG DURING THE DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH.

DR CHIU EXPLAINED THAT THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING GENETIC COUNSELLING WAS TO PREVENT GENETIC DISORDERS AND REDUCE THE INCIDENCE AND RECURRENCE OF GENETIC DISEASES AS FAR AS POSSIBLE.

SOME EXAMPLES OF GENETIC DISEASES HE CITED WERE DOWN’S SYNDROME, DIABETES, HUNTINGTON’S CHOREA, NIGHT BLINDNESS, POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE, SICKLEMIA, MULTIPLE POLYPOSIS OF THE INTESTINES, AND OSTEOGENESIS IMPERFECTA.

"A GREAT MAJORITY OF THESE DISEASES ARE SERIOUS, RELATIVELY FEW ARE TREATED, BUT NONE ARE CURABLE. THEREFORE, THE APPROPRIATE APPROACH TO THEIR CONTROL IS PREVENTION THROUGH COUNSELLING, WITH PRENATAL DIAGNOSIS AND SELECTIVE ABORTION IF INDICATED," DR CHIU SAID.

HE POINTED OUT THAT, ACCORDING TO SURVEY RESULTS, AT LEAST ONE CHILD IN 10, AND SOMETIMES PERHAPS AS MANY AS ONE IN FOUR, HAD A DISORDER WHICH WAS PARTLY GENETIC IN CAUSATION; AND ONE IN 20 HAD A DISORDER WHICH WAS ENTIRELY GENETIC IN ORIGIN.

HE ADDED THAT STUDIES CONDUCTED IN WESTERN COUNTRIES REVEALED THAT GENETIC DISORDERS CONTRIBUTED SIGNIFICANTLY TO MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY IN CHILDHOOD.

"IT IS, THEREFORE, IMPORTANT TO RECOGNISE THE PROBLEM AND IDENTIFY THOSE AT RISK AS A FIRST STEP TOWARDS PREVENTION," HE SAID.

DR CHIU NOTED THAT HONG KONG OPERATED A CLINICAL GENETIC COUNSELLING SERVICE ON A SMALL SCALE, SUPPORTED BY THE CYTOGENETIC LABORATORY AT THE TSAN YUK HOSPITAL.

BUT HE SAID ONLY 1,630 OUT OF HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF FAMILIES HAD MADE USE OF THIS SERVICE, AND HE ATTRIBUTED THE LOW USAGE TO "INADEQUATE PUBLIC EDUCATION".

"SHOULD THE GENERAL PUBLIC BE AWARE OF THE EXISTENCE OF SUCH A SERVICE, THE CASELOAD WILL CERTAINLY INCREASE CONSIDERABLY," HE SAID.

/HE DESCRIBED

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 198?

- 18 -

HE DESCRIBED MEASURES TO PREVENT GENETIC DISEASE AS ONE OF THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAYS TO CUT DOWN MEDICAL EXPENSES AND LESSEN THE SOCIAL BURDEN IN THE LONG TERM. ON THE OTHER HAND, THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT WAS TO BE COMMENDED FOR ITS ’’EXCELLENT PREVENTIVE HEALTH MEASURES" AGAINST COMMUNICABLE DISEASES, AS A RESULT OF WHICH MANY INFECTIOUS DISEASES HAD BEEN ERADICATED OR SUCCESSFULLY BROUGHT UNDER CONTROL.

IN WELCOMING THE SETTING UP OF A SUB-COMMITTEE OF THE PROVISIONAL HOSPITAL AUTHORITY, DR CHIU ASKED FOR AN ASSURANCE THAT THE NEW CONDITIONS OF SERVICE FOR STAFF WOULD BE REASONABLY ATTRACTIVE; THAT EXISTING STAFF WOULD BE GIVEN THE OPTION TO REMAIN IN THE CIVIL SERVICE OR TO JOIN THE NEW BODY; AND THAT SERIOUS CONSIDERATION WOULD BE GIVEN TO THE PROMOTION PROSPECTS OF EXISTING STAFF.

DR CHIU REQUESTED THAT THE SUB-COMMITTEE SUBMIT A REPORT ONE YEAR AFTER ITS ESTABLISHMENT.

HE ALSO SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD NOW CONDUCT A REVIEW OF THE OVERALL POLICY OF PRIMARY CARE SINCE IT HAD ALREADY DECIDED TO SET UP THE PROVISIONAL HOSPITAL AUTHORITY IN APRIL NEXT YEAR. HE SAID HE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHEN THIS REVIEW WOULD TAKE PLACE; WHO WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE TASK; HOW WIDE THE SCOPE WOULD BE AND HOW LONG IT WOULD TAKE FOR THE WHOLE EXERCISE TO BE COMPLETED.

HE HOPED THAT THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE REVIEW TEAM WOULD SHED LIGHT ON ISSUES RELATING TO THE DOCTOR/PATIENT RELATIONSHIP; THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PROPER MEDICAL RECORD SYSTEM; THE CASELOAD OF DOCTORS; TRAINING NEEDS AND RECOGNITION OF POSTGRADUATE QUALIFICATION IN GENERAL PRACTICE.

-----0------

COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL WELFARE POLICY URGED ♦ ♦ ♦ » ♦

MAPPING OUT A COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL WELFARE POLICY FOR THE 1990’S WILL BE A NECESSARY STEP TO TAKE, ALONG WITH OTHER DEVELOPMENT PLANS FOR BUILDING THE SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE, THE HON HUT YIN-FAT SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ANNUAL ADDRESS, MR HUI SAID THAT AS HONG KONG FACED UP TO RAPID SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL CHANGES ENVISAGED FOR THE COMING DECADE, AD HOC, PIECEMEAL AND TEMPORARY SOLUTIONS TO SOCIAL PROBLEMS WOULD BE INADEQUATE FOR COPING WITH EMERGING SOCIAL ISSUES.

/’’THE BLUEPRINT

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- 19 -

"THE BLUEPRINT ON SOCIAL WELFARE DEVELOPMENT— 'SOCIAL WELFARE INTO THE EIGHTIES’ — HAS SINCE 1979 BECOME OUTDATED, AND THE TIME HAS GOME FOR AN OVERALL REVIEW OF OUR SOCIAL WELFARE POLICY," HE SAID.

HE SAID LONG-TERM, COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL PLANNING, INCLUDING SOCIAL WORK MANPOWER PLANNING, AND MORE AMBITIOUS PROGRAMMES IN RESPONSE TO NEW NEEDS SUCH AS THE CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND WERE WELL WITHIN THE GOVERNMENT’S CAPABILITY.

"A PROGRESSIVE, RESPONSIBLE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT ONLY ADDRESS ITSELF TO LONG FELT NEEDS, BUT ALSO COMMITS ITSELF TO ACTIVELY IMPROVING PEOPLE’S QUALITY OF LIFE WELL BEYOND 1997," HE SAID.

ON SPECIFIC ISSUES, MR HUI SAID HE FELT OBLIGED TO POINT OUT ONE PROBLEM AREA THAT WAS SERIOUSLY AFFECTING THE QUALITY OF SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES — SOCIAL WORK MANPOWER AND REGISTRATION.

HE SAID RECENT FAMILY TRAGEDIES INVOLVING SUICIDES, HOMICIDES AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, HAD ALERTED THE COMMUNITY TO THE INCREASINGLY SOPHISTICATED NEEDS OF SOCIETY AND BROUGHT INTO PUBLIC LIMELIGHT THE ROLE OF SOCIAL WORKERS.

"AND THE QUESTION MUST BE ASKED -- HOW WELL ARE THEY EQUIPPED TO EFFECTIVELY HANDLE COMPLICATED CASES?" HE SAID.

MR HUI SAID TRAINED PROFESSIONAL SOCIAL WORKERS WERE ESSENTIAL TO THE SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF SOCIAL WELFARE POLICIES. HOWEVER, HAPHAZARD SOCIAL WORK MANPOWER PLANNING DONE ON AN AD HOC BASIS HAD CREATED A DEMAND AND SUPPLY PROBLEM WHICH WOULD BECOME A CRISIS UNLESS EARLY INTERVENTION TOOK PLACE.

IN 1981, HE SAID, IT WAS ESTIMATED THAT THE SHORTFALL FOR GRADUATE SOCIAL WORKERS BETWEEN 1983 AND 1987 WOULD BE 705, AND THAT FOR NON-GRADUATES WOULD BE 1,050.

"HOWEVER, IN THE LAST TWO YEARS, DUE TO A VARIETY OF REASONS THAT INCLUDED SLIPPAGE IN PROJECTS, THE SUPPLY OF TRAINED SOCIAL WORKERS OUTSTRIPPED DEMAND. SO MUCH SO THAT IN 1985 OUR SOCIAL WORK GRADUATES COULD NOT FIND EMPLOYMENT SOME SIX MONTHS AFTER GRADUATION."

HE SAID THE VOLATILE EMPLOYMENT SITUATION HIT HARDEST AT SOCIAL WORK DIPLOMA HOLDERS WHO HAD TO BEAR THE BRUNT OF THE EFFECTS OF INADEUATE MANPOWER PLANNING.

BY AUGUST THIS YEAR, HE SAID, ONLY 88 OF THE 220 GRADUATING DIPLOMA HOLDERS WERE PLACED IN JOBS.

MR HUI SAID APART FROM THE LACK OF JOB OPPORTUNITIES, UNFAVOURABLE WORKING CONDITIONS IN THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES WERE CAUSING WASTAGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS, THUS AGGRAVATING THE MANPOWER SITUATION.

/HE SAID

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

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HE SAID WITHOUT A SUFFICIENT LEVEL OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT, BOTH THE DEPARTMENT AND THE VOLUNTARY AGENCIES WERE FINDING IT DIFFICULT TO RETAIN THEIR STAFF.

MR HUI SUGGESTED FIVE SOLUTIONS. FIRSTLY, HE SAID, WITH IMPROVED MANPOWER SUPPLY AND A STRONG ECONOMY, EARLY IMPLEMENTATION OF AGREED MANNING RATIOS WAS IMPERATIVE. STAFF IMPROVEMENTS, ENDORSED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE ADVISORY COMMITTEE, OUGHT TO BE IMPLEMENTED WITHOUT DELAY, SINCE THIS WAS THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO EASE THE HEAVY WORKLOAD PLACED ON SOCIAL WORKERS.

SECONDLY, APART FROM AN ADEQUATE MANPOWER SUPPLY, PROFESSIONAL TRAINING WAS NEEDED TO PROVIDE SUFFICIENTLY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL TO DEAL WITH INCREASINGLY COMPLEX SOCIAL PROBLEMS AND RISING EXPECTATIONS OF CLIENTS.

HE SAID IT WAS NECESSARY TO REVIEW THE SOCIAL WORK TRAINING FUND AND REPLACEMENT GRANTS FOR VOLUNTARY AGENCIES TO SEE HOW THEY COULD BE BEST DEPLOYED IN PROVIDING FURTHER IN-SERVICE TRAINING FOR DIPLOMA HOLDERS AND MORE SPECIALISED TRAINING FOR DEGREE HOLDERS.

THIRDLY, THE SCHEME TO EMPLOY GENERAL DEGREE HOLDERS TO FILL SOCIAL WORK POSTS OUGHT TO BE TERMINATED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

THE SCHEME ADOPTED IN 1983 BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT TO EASE THE MANPOWER SHORTAGE WAS NOT ONLY A COSTLY MEASURE, BUT ALSO DEALT A BLOW TO THE MORALE OF TRAINED SOCIAL WORKERS.

FOURTHLY, MORE AND MORE DIFFICULT SITUATIONS WOULD REQUIRE EXPERIENCED AND SKILFUL SOCIAL WORKERS WHO WERE AT PRESENT ENGAGED IN ADMINISTRATIVE WORK BECAUSE THERE WERE NO REASONABLE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE TO RETAIN THEM IN DIRECT PRACTICE.

MR HUI SAID CASES INVOLVING CHILD ABUSE, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, AND HARD CORE DELINQUENTS, AND ALSO "AT RISK" CASES, REQUIRED EXPERIENCED PRACTITIONERS. SENIOR SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE, OFFERING MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR PROMOTION, SHOULD MERIT THE GOVERNMENT’S SERIOUS CONSIDERATION.

LASTLY, HE SAID HONG KONG NEEDED A CENTRAL PLANNING BODY TO MAKE AVAILABLE AN ESTIMATION OF SOCIAL WORK MANPOWER DEMAND AND SUPPLY, ON WHICH TRAINING INSTITUTIONS COULD PLAN THEIR IN-TAKE PROGRAMMES. THIS BODY WOULD ENHANCE THE EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE DEPLOYMENT OF TRAINED SOCIAL WORK MANPOWER.

ON SOCIAL WORK REGISTRATION, MR HUI SAID REGISTRATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS WOULD ENSURE BETTER CLIENT PROTECTION AND PROVISION OF QUALITY SERVICES AND WAS THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS LEGISLATING FOR LICENSING OF SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE.

HE SAID SOCIAL WORKERS’ STRUGGLE TO ESTABLISH THEIR PROFESSIONAL STATUS WAS PERHAPS NOT SO MUCH AN OBTRUSIVE ATTEMPT TO ENHANCE PUBLIC CONFIDENCE THAN AN EFFORT TO ACHIEVE ACCOUNTABILITY.

/"FOR IN .......

THURSDAY, N0VB1BER 5, 198?

"FOR IN HONG KONG, NO LEGISLATIVE QUALIFICATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR PRACTICING SOCIAL WORK, NOR DOES AN ACCREDITATION BODY EXIST FOR DECIDING WORKERS’ LEVEL OF COMPETENCE,” HE SAID.

"THUS, STANDARD SETTING AND SELF-REGULATION FOR SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE HAVE EVOLVED AS ONE OF OUR PRIMARY FUNCTIONS TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC FROM UNQUALIFIED PRACTITIONERS."

MR HUI ALSO SPOKE AGAINST THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION NOT TO ESTABLISH A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND.

HF SAID THE ASSUMPTION THAT THE ACCUMULATED FUND MIGHT CAUSE GREAT INTERFERENCE IN THE MONEY MARKET HAD ALREADY BEEN PROVED TO BE INVALID BY ECONOMISTS AT A MEETING WITH THE FINANCE BRANCH.

"THE EFFECT OF INFLATION ON CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND CONTRIBUTIONS, WHICH CAN BE OFFSET BY PROPER MANAGEMENT OF RETURNS ON INVESTMENTS, HAS ALSO BEEN OVER-EXAGGERATED," HE SAID.

"THUS, BY ADOPTING THE LOPSIDED ARGUMENTS ADVANCED BY EMPLOYERS TO CAUSE ALARM, GOVERNMENT HAS DEMONSTRATED A PAROCHIAL OUTLOOK AND AN OBDURATE ATTITUDE IN ADDRESSING A VITAL SOCIAL ISSUE," HE SAID.

MR HUT SAID THE SOCIAL SERVICES FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCY BELIEVED THAT A FUND WAS THE ONLY EFFECTIVE SOLUTION TO HONG KONG’S GROWING PROBLEM CONCERNING THE AGED, IN THE LIGHT OF RAPID SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHANGES AND LIMITED SOCIAL RESOURCES.

HE ALSO SAID THE SOCIAL SECURITY FUNCTION OF A FUND COULD NOT BE REPLACED BY THE PROPOSED MEASURES TO IMPROVE SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEMES, THE LONG SERVICE PAYMENT SCHEME AND PRIVATE PROVIDENT FUNDS.

APART FROM THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL BENEFITS, THE CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND, IN EXERTING A STABILISING EFFECT ON SOCIETY DURING THE TRANSITIONAL PERIOD, ALSO CARRIED SIGNIFICANT POLITICAL MEANING THAT OUTWEIGHED THE CONTRIBUTIONS MADE BY EMPLOYERS.

"THEREFORE, UNLESS GOVERNMENT WANTS TO REFRAIN FROM MAINTAINING HONG KONG’S STABILITY AND PROSPERITY ON A LONG TERM BASIS, IT HAS EVERY RESPONSIBILITY TO COME UP WITH ANOTHER COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL SECURITY PACKAGE BEFORE IT CAN SWEEP THE CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND UNDER THE CARPET."

MR HUI ALSO SAID THE NEW SCHEME OF EXTENDED OLD AGE ALLOWANCE, WHICH HE SAID WAS DESIGNED AS A TRADE-OFF FOR A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND, HAD AROUSED MIXED FEELINGS AMONG SOCIAL WORK PROFESSIONALS, AS A MEANS TEST IN THE FORM OF AN INCOME DECLARATION WAS INTRODUCED FOR ALL NEW OLD AGE ALLOWANCE APPLICANTS.

HE SAID AN INCOME DECLARATION TOUCHED A SOFT SPOT IN CONSERVATIVE-MINDED CHINESE PEOPLE WHO TENDED TO KEEP PRIVATE THEIR SOURCE OF INCOME.

/"INCOME DECLARATION,

THURSDAY, N0VB4BER J, 1987

- 22

"INCOME DECLARATION, WHICH DISQUALIFIES A SINGLE PERSON WITH A MONTHLY INCOME OF $1,500 AND ASSETS OF $100,000, AUTOMATICALLY LABELS THE RECIPIENTS AS PEOPLE LEAST ABLE TO HELP THEMSELVES," HE SAID.

"THIS UNWANTED SOCIAL STIGMA EASILY BECOMES A DETERRENT TO POTENTIAL OLD AGE ALLOWANCE CLAIMANTS."

MR HUI SAID VOLUNTARY WELFARE AGENCIES SERVING THE ELDERLY INSISTED THAT THE NON-MEANS TESTED OLD AGE ALLOWANCE, WHICH HAD BEEN OPERATING SUCCESSFULLY FOR THE PAST 14 YEARS, SHOULD BE RETAINED.

AS CONVENOR OF THE OMELCO PANEL ON WELFARE SERVICES, MR HUI SAID PANEL MEMBERS WERE ALSO UNANIMOUS IN OPPOSING THE PROPOSED INTRODUCTION OF AN INCOME DECLARATION FOR NEW APPLICANTS FOR THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE.

"WE STRONGLY FELT THAT WITHHOLDING THE ENTITLEMENT FROM OUR SENIOR CITIZENS WOULD NULLIFY THE HARD EARNED RESULTS OF YEARS OF CIVIC EDUCATION EFFORT IN PROMOTING APPRECIATION AND RESPECT FOR THE ELDERLY," HE SAID.

SIMILAR VIEWS HAD BEEN EXPRESSED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND THE CENTRAL COMMITTEE ON THE ELDERLY. MR HUI ADDED.

-----0-----

REMEDIAL MEASURES NO SUBSTITUTE FOR CPF t * t t *

THE HON ROSANNA TAM SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT SHE IS DEEPLY DISAPPOINTED WITH THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION NOT TO SET UP A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND.

SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE POLICY DEBATE, MRS TAM SAID IT WAS WRONG TO DROP THE IDEA AND INSTEAD INTRODUCE OTHER REMEDIAL MEASURES SUCH AS STRENGTHENING THE SUPERVISION OF PRIVATE PROVIDENT FUNDS, IMPROVING SOCIAL SECURITY, AND EXTENDING AND CHANGING THE CHARACTER OF THE LONG SERVICE PAYMENT SCHEME.

SHE SAID THE PROPOSED REMEDIAL MEASURES WERE ESSENTIALLY OF A DIFFERENT NATURE FROM THAT OF A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND. THEY COULD DO LITTLE TO SOLVE THE PROBLEMS THAT A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND SCHEME WAS INTENDED TO RESOLVE.

SHE SAID THAT, IN PRACTICE, THE CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND WAS A COMPULSORY SAVINGS SCHEME BASED ON THE EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP. IT WAS NOT SOCIAL WELFARE AND DID NOT EFFECT RE-DISTRIBUTION OF WEALTH. IN SPIRIT, THE CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND ENCOURAGED "SELF-PROVIDED LUNCHES" AND NOT "FREE LUNCHES".

/SHE ADDED

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

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SHE ADDED THAT, MORE IMPORTANTLY, THE OBJECTIVE OF SETTING UP A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND WAS TO PREPARE FOR AN EXPECTED GENERAL SOCIAL PHENOMENON BROUGHT ABOUT BY AN AGEING POPULATION.

IT WAS HOPED THAT THROUGH A COMPULSORY SAVINGS SCHEME, THE GROWING POPULATION OF OLD PEOPLE COULD SUPPORT THEMSELVES AND MAINTAIN A REASONABLE LIVING STANDARD UPON RETIREMENT SO AS TO RELIEVE AN INCREASING FINANCIAL BURDEN.

REFERRING TO THE THREE REMEDIAL MEASURES PROPOSED IN THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH, MRS TAM SAID THAT IMPROVING SOCIAL SECURITY WOULD ONLY BENEFIT THOSE WHO HAD NO STEADY JOBS AND WHOSE PAY HAD BEEN VERY LOW; AN EXTENDED LONG SERVICE PAYMENT SCHEME WOULD ONLY TAKE CARE OF THOSE WHO WORKED A LONG PERIOD FOR THE SAME INSTITUTION AND NOT THOSE WHO CHANGED JOBS; STRENGTHENING THE SUPERVISION OF PRIVATE FUNDS WOULD BE BUT AN ADMINISTRATIVE ARRANGEMENT.

"OBVIOUSLY, TO PLACE THESE THREE MEASURES TOGETHER WITH THE PROPOSAL FOR A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND IS TO MISLEAD THE PUBLIC.

"NONE OF THEM SERVE THE SAME TARGET GROUP AS DOES THE CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND, NOR DO THEY SOLVE THE PROBLEMS OF AN AGEING POPULATION AS A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND INTENDS TO DO," SHE SAID.

AS THE GOVERNMENT WAS AGAINST THE IDEA OF A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND, THE ONLY WAY TO ACHIEVE THE SAME OBJECTIVE WOULD BE TO RELY ON THE INITIATIVES OF EMPLOYERS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO SET UP PROVIDENT FUNDS FOR THEIR OWN EMPLOYEES.

BUT THE POLICY SPEECH DID NOT PUT FORWARD ANY PROPOSALS TO ENCOURAGE EMPLOYERS TO SET UP SUCH FUNDS.

"INSTEAD, GOVERNMENT’S UNILATERAL MOVE TO STEP UP SUPERVISION OF PRIVATE PROVIDENT FUNDS AND EXTEND THE LONG SERVICE PAYMENT SCHEME WILL ONLY DISCOURAGE EMPLOYERS FROM SETTING UP THEIR OWN PROVIDENT FUNDS,” SHE SAID.

SIMILARLY, THE INCREASE IN EXPENDITURE RESULTING FROM THE EXTENSION OF THE LONG SERVICE PAYMENT SCHEME WOULD ALSO DETER THE EMPLOYERS FROM SETTING UP PROVIDENT FUNDS WHICH WAS A MORE COMPREHENSIVE PROTECTION. AS A RESULT, THE NUMBER OF PRIVATE PROVIDENT FUND SCHEMES IN HONG KONG WOULD BECOME STATIC AND THE LARGE NUMBERS OF WORKERS NOT YET COVERED BY THE PROVIDENT FUND SCHEMES WOULD STILL BE WITHOUT ANY PROTECTION.

TURNING TO THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE, MRS TAM POINTED OUT THAT THE EXISTING SCHEME WAS NON-MEANS TESTED. OLD PEOPLE OVER 70 YEARS OLD WERE ENTITLED TO OLD AGE ALLOWANCE IRRESPECTIVE OF THEIR WEALTH AND INCOME.

/SHE NOTED .......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- 24

SHE NOTED THAT THE PROPOSED NEW MEASURE EXTENDED THE ALLOWANCE TO THOSE AGED 65 BUT NEW APPLICANTS WOULD BE REQUIRED TO DECLARE THAT THEIR INCOME AND ASSETS DID NOT EXCEED A CERTAIN LIMIT.

’’FROM THE WELFARE POINT OF VIEW, SUCH A REQUIREMENT IS CERTAINLY A RETROGRESSIVE MEASURE,” SHE SAID.

SHE SAID THAT ANOTHER, MORE CRUCIAL PROBLEM WAS THAT EVEN IF AN ’’INCOME-BASED” APPROACH WAS ADOPTED IN PROCESSING THE APPLICATIONS, THE EXPENDITURE ON SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAMMES WOULD BE SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED IN FUTURE WHEN THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE WAS EXTENDED IN STAGES AND THE PROPORTION OF OLD PEOPLE IN OUR POPULATION INCREASED.

ACCORDING TO ESTIMATES PROVIDED BY THE GOVERNMENT, THIS PHASED-RASIS EXTENSION WOULD INCUR AN ADDITIONAL EXPENDITURE OF OVER $500 MILLION IN THE FIRST YEAR OF ITS FULL IMPLEMENTION. CONSEQUENTLY, THE ALLOCATION OF RESOURCES FOR SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES AS A WHOLE WOULD BE AFFECTED.

’’WITH A SIGNIFICANT GROWTH IN THE EXPENDITURE ON SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAMMES, THE PROVISION OF OTHER IMPORTANT WELFARE SERVICES SUCH AS FAMILY AND YOUTH SERVICES AND SERVICES FOR THE HANDICAPPED WILL BE GREATLY HAMPERED IF THE GOVERNMENT’S TOTAL EXPENDITURE ON WELFARE SERVICES IS NOT CORRESPONDINGLY RAISED,” SHE SAID.

MRS TAM ALSO URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO GIVE CAREFUL CONSIDERATION TO THE ALLOCATION OF FUNDS FOR WELFARE SERVICES BY TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE NEEDS IN ALL OTHER SERVICES AND THE ADEQUACY OF RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF VARIOUS KINDS OF SERVICES.

SHE PROPOSED THAT TH'-. EXPENDITURE ON "SOCIAL SECURITY", AT PRESENT UNDER THE HEAD OF SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES, SHOULD BE SEPARATED FROM THE LATTER TO BECOME AN INDEPENDENT HEAD OF EXPENDITURE.

"THE AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC THEN WILL HAVE A CLEARER PICTURE OF THE ANNUAL EXPENSES ON SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES,” SHE SAID.

TURNING TO POLICY ON YOUTH, MRS TAM SAID THAT YOUNG PEOPLE WERE IN FACT CONFRONTED BY A LOT OF PROBLEM AND THEY NEEDED COMMUNITY SUPPORT.

"THE INCREASING SERIOUSNESS OF JUVENILE DELINQUENCY, THE AGGRAVATING STATE OF DRUG A ’.USE, PARTICULARLY THAT OF SOFT DRUGS, AND THE CONTINUOUS INVOLVEMENT OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN TRIAD ACTIVITIES ARE SIGNIFICANT INDICATORS," SHF SAID.

SHE SAID THAT HONG KONG WAS AT A CRITICAL HISTORICAL PERIOD LEADING TO ITS POLITICAL HANDOVER. THE COMMUNITY HAD HIGH HOPES FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE WHO WOULD BE THE MASTERS OF FUTURE SOCIETY.

/"TO PREPARE

THURSDAY, N0VB1BER 5, 1987

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"TO PREPARE THEM FOR THESE ASPIRATIONS, WE SHOULD PAY MORE ATTENTION TO THE CIVIC EDUCATION OF OUR YOUTHS AND DEMONSTRATE OUR COMMITMENT TO OUR YOUNG,” SHE SAID.

SHE ADDED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CONTINUE ITS EFFORTS TO DFTER JUVENILE CRIMES BY STRENGTHENING PERSONAL SOCIAL WORK AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE, WHICH WOULD HELP THEM COPE WITH THE MANY PROBLEMS IN GROWING UP AND PREVENT THEM FROM GOING ASTRAY.

SHE ALSO SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT APPOINT MORE YOUNG PEOPLE TO SERVE ON THE DISTRICT BOARDS, AREA COMMITTEES AND OTHER ADVISORY BODIES SO THAT THEY COULD HAVE MORE PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE AND A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SOCIAL AFFAIRS AS WELL AS THEIR COMMITMENTS.

FINALLY, SHE PRAISED THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT FOR THE EFFORTS IT HAD MADE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR TOWARDS PROMOTING RELATIONSHIPS AND UNDERSTANDING WITH VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.

--------o-----------

SPECIAL TEAM ON BN(O) PASSPORT SUGGESTED t t t t i

THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD ESTABLISH A SPECIAL TEAM TO ASSIST IN ENQUIRIES BY INDIVIDUALS AND THE TRAVEL TRADE IN CASES WHERE UNCERTAINTY ABOUT THE BN(O) PASSPORT ARISES, THE HON SELINA CHOW SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, MRS CHOW SAID A KEY ISSUE IN THE SINO-BRIT1SH JOINT DECLARATION WHICH HAD INSPIRED CONFIDENCE IN OUR FUTURE WAS THE GUARANTEE THAT THE DOORS OF HONG KONG WOULD REMAIN OPEN, NOT ONLY FOR OUTSIDERS TO COME IN, BUT MORE IMPORTANT, FOR HONG KONG PEOPLE TO TRAVEL, AS THEY WERE ABLE TO TODAY.

SHE SAID CHINA HAD BEEN PRAGMATIC ENOUGH TO ACCEPT THE ARRANGEMENT ON THE BN(O) PASSPORT BEYOND 1997.

HOWEVER, SHE SAID WHAT HAD HAPPENED SINCE THE ISSUANCE OF THE PASSPORT IN JULY THIS YEAR HAD BEEN UNFORTUNATE, AND HAD NOT BEEN HELPFUL IN BUILDING UP PEOPLE’S CONFIDENCE IN THIS NEW TRAVEL DOCUMENT.

"ALTHOUGH WE HAVE BEEN ASSURED BY GOVERNMENT THAT UNFAILING EFFORTS HAVE BEEN MADE TO GAIN ACCEPTANCE FOR THIS DOCUMENT, AND IN

SPITE OF THE FACT THAT OTHER COUNTRIES ARF UNDER NO OBLIGATION TO ENDORSE IT, NOR IS SUCH ENDORSEMENT NECESSARY IN THE EYES OF THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT, TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, POSITIVE AND PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT OF ACCEPTANCE BY FRIENDLY NATIONS SUCH AS THOSE GIVEN BY THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND,

SWITZERLAND AND OTHER STATES, HAVE GONE A LONG CONFIDENCE IN THE BN(O) PASSPORT," SHE SAID.

WAY IN ESTABLISHING

/MRS CHOW

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5» ">987

- 26 -

MRS CHOW STRESSED THAT SHOULD PROBLEMS ARISE CONCERNING ANY PARTICULAR FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OR ITS REPRESENTATIVE HERE, THESE COULD MORE EASILY BE SOLVED BETWEEN GOVERNMENTS, WITHOUT CREATING FURTHER MISUNDERSTANDING OR DELAY.

"LET THERE BE CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE PUBLIC AND GOVERNMENT TO TRY AND SHORTEN THE TEETHING PERIOD AS FAR AS POSSIBLE THROUGH POSITIVE ACTION," SHE SAID.

"THIS IS, BY FAR, PREFERABLE TO THE PRESENT SITUATION IN WHICH A SUSPICIOUS PUBLIC AND A DEFENSIVE GOVERNMENT PASS THE BUCK FOR A LOW APPLICATION RATE TO EACH OTHER WHILE THE REAL PROBLEMS REMAIN UNRESOLVED."

SHE SAID IT DID NOT HELP THE BN(O) PASSPORT NOR ITS HOLDER WHO WOULD SOONER OR LATER BE RELYING ON IT FOR OUTBOUND TRAVEL TO PUT OFF THE APPLICATION OR THE USE OF IT.

"ON THE CONTRARY, THE SOONER WE GET OVER THE TEETHING PROBLEMS THE BETTER IT WILL BE FOR PUBLIC CONFIDENCE. THIS PRINCIPLE IS FULLY RECOGNISED.

"HOWEVER, UNLESS GOVERNMENT IS SEEN TO ASSIST IN EVERY WAY IT CAN, WHO CAN BLAME ANYONE FOR THE 'LET SOMEBODY ELSE BE THE GUINEA PIG FIRST’ ATTITUDE?"

MRS CHOW SAID IN SPITE OF THE UNCERTAINTIES CAUSED BY THE PASSPORT ISSUE, AND UNCOMFORTABLE RUMBLING IN THE OUTBOUND TRAVEL TRADE, HONG KONG PEOPLE TRAVELLED TO LANDS NEAR AND FAR FOR BUSINESS AND PLEASURE LAST YEAR.

THE VOLUME OF BUSINESS IN THE TRAVEL TRADE WAS CONSERVATIVELY ESTIMATED TO BE $9 BILLION, OF WHICH ALMOST 30 PER CENT WAS TAKEN UP BY TOURS.

"WITH AN INDUSTRY THAT CATERS TO SO MANY CONSUMERS, IT WOULD BE QUITE UNACCEPTABLE AND RETROGRESSIVE FOR GOVERNMENT TO PREACH OR PRACTISE LAISSEZ-FAIRE, PARTICULARLY IN THE LIGHT OF WHAT HAS HAPPENED IN THE LAST FEW YEARS," SHE SAID.

"NO ONE WOULD DENY THAT THE TRADE IS IN A HARDLY HEALTHY STATE. BUT LET US NEVER FORGET THAT IT IS IN THE STATE IT IS IN BECAUSE OF THE LAISSEZ-FAIRE POLICY IN THE FIRST PLACE AND THE CASH-IN-ADVANCE NATURE OF THE BUSINESS."

SHE SAID FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO WASH ITS HANDS OF THE MESS NOW IN THE HOLY NAME OF SELF-REGULATION WITH NEITHER LEGISLATIVE CONTROL NOR COMMUNITY MONITORING WAS A DANGEROUS STEP TO TAKE.

"TO ADOPT IT AS AN IMMEDIATE PANACEA WHEN EVEN THE TRADE ITSELF FEELS IT MAY NOT BE READY RUNS THE RISK OF CREATING INEQUITY WITHIN THE TRADE ITSELF, OR WORSE STILL, COSTING THE TRAVELLING PUBLIC A LOT MORE THAN IT SHOULD FAIRLY BE."

/Mrs chow

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5f 198?

MRS CHOW SAID ALTHOUGH THE GOVERNMENT HAD NOT DECIDED, EVERY INDICATION WAS THAT CONSUMER PROTECTION RY WAY OF COMPENSATION ON FAILURE OR COLLAPSE OF AGENTS WOULD REMAIN.

SHE SAID IT HAD BEEN WIDELY REPORTED IN THE PRESS LAST MONTH THAT THE INTENTION WAS TO IMPOSE A LEVY ON TOUR RECEIPTS.

’’EXISTING PROVISIONS FOR THE RESERVE FUND ARE HEAVILY CRITICISED FOR ITS ELEMENT OF MUTUALITY, WHICH IS SEEN AS AN INCENTIVE FOR THE BLACK SHEEP IN THE TRADE TO ABSCOND, LEAVING THE COMPENSATION BILL FOR THE HONEST AGENTS.

'IT THIS ELEMENT REMAINS IN THE FUTURE SYSTEM, THE SAME DANGER WILL APPLY. THE ONLY REASON THE TRADE DOES NOT OBJECT IS THAT WHEREAS THEY HAVE TO FOOT THE BILL NOW, THE BURDEN WILL IN FUTURE LAY SQUARELY ON THE CONSUMER, ALBEIT INDIRECTLY."

SHE SAID THE ELEMENT OF MUTUALITY SHOULD BE REDUCED AS FAR AS POSSIBLE AND ANY FUND SHOULD BE USED ONLY AS A LAST RESORT AFTER THE DEFAULTING AGENT’S OWN GUARANTEE HAD BEEN EXHAUSTED.

"EACH AGENT SHOULD FURNISH THE BONDING SCHEME WITH A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF SURETY IN THE FORM OF BANKER’S GUARANTEE OR INSURANCE COMMENSURATE WITH THE BUSINESS TURNOVER OF THE AGENT.”

MRS CHOW SAID THIS WAS A SYSTEM ADOPTED BY AUSTRALIA AND SINGAPORE AND HAD PROVEN TO BE EFFECTIVE.

"ITS MERITS ARE MANY: IT DISCOURAGES FLY-BY-NIGHT TOUR OPERATORS FROM TAKING ADVANTAGE OF OUR FREE MARKET; REMOVES THE ELEMENT OF MUTUALITY, AND IT REDUCES THE AMOUNT OF LEVIES TO BE IMPOSED ON TOURS.

"AS THE HIGH SEASON FOR TOURS IS ONCE AGAIN DRAWING NEAR, I URGE THE GOVERNMENT TO ACT SOON, AND EVEN IF WE CANNOT HAVE THE PERMANENT SOLUTION IN PLACE, THERE MUST BE SOME INTERIM MEASURE TO PREVENT REPETITION OF UGLY SCENES IN HISTORY,” SHE SAID.

SHE ALSO SAID THAT WHILE 16 MILLION PEOPLE TRAVELLED OUTSIDE HONG KONG LAST YEAR, 3.7 MILLION VISITORS CAME TO HONG KONG, SPENDING OVER $17.8 BILLION.

THIS TOURING POPULATION WAS EXPECTED TO RISE BY A FURTHER 17.5 PER CENT THIS YEAR, MAKING A TOTAL OF 4.38 MILLION, AND LIKELY TO PROVIDE HONG KONG WITH A REVENUE OF OVER $20 BILLION, AND THE FORECAST FOR NEXT YEAR WAS 1.85 MILLION, WITH A CONSERVATIVE ESTIMATED GROWTH OF 10.5 PER CENT.

MRS CHOW SAID THE UNCHALLENGED ATTRACTION OF HONG KONG FOR MOST VISITORS WAS ITS IMAGE AS THE EPITOME OF THE UNIQUE MIX OF EAST AND WEST, AS MANIFESTED THROUGH ITS PEOPLE, ITS LANGUAGES, ITS LIFESTYLE AND ITS HERITAGE.

/HOWEVER, SHE

THURSDAY* NOVEMBER 1987

HOWEVER, SHE POINTED OUT THAT FOR A CITY THAT SPENT BILLIONS ON ITS BUILDING PROGRAMME, SETTING ASIDE LAND FOR PARKS AND SOCCER FIELDS, IT WAS SAD TO SEE HOW LITTLE WAS DONE TO PRESERVE SYMBOLS OF its Heritage.

"IN SPITE OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS BOARD MORE THAN 15 YEARS AGO, WE HAVE WITNESSED THE DEMOLITION OF MUCH VALUABLE HISTORICAL ARCHITECTURE SUCH AS THE TS1M SHA TSUI RAILWAY STATION, THE HONG KONG CLUB AND THE MURRAY BUILDING TO MAKE WAY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MODERN CITY.

"DOES THE BOARD HAVE ENOUGH POWER TO DO ITS JOB PROPERLY? AND DOES IT HAVE THE NECESSARY FUNDS TO CARRY OUT REPAIRS? DOES GOVERNMENT RECOGNISE THE NECESSITY OF PRESERVATION AS A BACKBONE TO OUR TOURISM INDUSTRY, AND IF SO IS IT PREPARED TO GIVE THE BOARD POWER AND THE FUNDS TO DO ITS JOB PROPERLY?

"WHY CAN WE NOT HAVE LAWS WHICH MAKE IT MANDATORY FOR OWNERS OF OLD HISTORICAL BUILDINGS DEEMED TO BE WORTH SAVING BY THE BOARD TO RESTORE THEM, OR TO MAINTAIN THE BUILDINGS* ORIGINAL EXTERIOR OR FACADE WHILE REDEVELOPMENT IS ALLOWED AT THE BACK, AS IT IS DONE IN ENGLAND, FRANCE AND SINGAPORE?"

MRS CHOW SAID THE SUCCESS OF OUR TOURISM INDUSTRY HAD BEEN THE ENVY OF MANY NEIGHBOURING TERRITORIES AND WE MUST PROTECT SURE REVENUE EARNERS AND RETAIN WHATEVER COMPETITIVE EDGE WE HAI).

SHE SAID ALTHOUGH THE HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION HAD BEEN DOING A GREAT JOB IN PROMOTING HONG KONG AND DESERVED RECOGNITION OF ITS OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS, CERTAIN IMPROVEMENTS REMAINED OUTSIDE ITS AMBIT.

THESE INCLUDED THE CONDITION OF THE AIRPORT AND ITS ANCILL1ARY PASSENGER FACILITIES AND THE GOVERNMENT POLICY OF TIGHT RESTRICTION ON APPLICATION OF VISAS BY EASTERN EUROPEAN VISITORS.

SHE SAID, IN THE PAST, HONG KONG HAD BEEN LOSING OUT IN THE MARKET FOR INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES BECAUSE OF THIS POLICY.

“OF THE NUMEROUS MEETINGS HELD BY INTERNATIONAL BODIES, IT MAKES GOOD BUSINESS SENSE TO INDUCE THOSE WITH HONG KONG MEMBERSHIP TO CONDUCT THEM IN HONG KONG. THIS IS PARTICULARLY DESIRABLE IN THE RUN-UP TO 1997 WHEN HONG KONG IS KEEN TO KEEP UP INTERNATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS."

SHE SAID ACCORDING TO THE UNION OF INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION DIRECTORY, 669 INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS HAD HONG KONG MEMBERS. OF THESE 409 HAD EASTERN EUROPEAN MEMBERSHIP.

"HONG KONG IS EXCLUDED FROM TWO-THIRD OF THE POTENTIAL BUSINESS BECAUSE OF THIS POLICY ON ENTRY VISAS. IN ADDITION WE ARE LOSING OUT ON CONFERENCE DELEGATES WHO SPEND AN AVERAGE OF OVER $4,000 EACH.

"WITH THE COMPLETION OF THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE AS WELL AS AN ADDITIONAL 3,682 HOTEL ROOMS IN 1988, GOVERNMENT MUST REVIEW THIS OUTDATED POLICY," SHE SAID.

-----0------

/29........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5t 1987

ANTI-II EFFORTS' UNDER CONTINUOUS REVIEW *****

THE EFFORTS TO KEEP I!.LEGAL IMMIGRATION UNDER CONTROL ARE VERY IMPORTANT TO THE PROSPERITY )• HONG KONG AND IT IS A SUBJECT WHICH THE GOVERNMENT KEEPS UNDER CONTINUOUS REVIEW, THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ROBERT UPTO I SAID THIS (THURSDAY) EVENING.

SPEAKING TO REPORTERS DURING HIS VISIT TO THE ANNUAL BORDER CAMP OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT (THE VOLUNTEERS), MR UPTON SAID THE LEVEL OF MANPOWER APPLIES TO THE ANTI-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION TASK AND THE EQUIPMENT USED -- IN RAIDING MAJOR INSTALLATIONS SUCH AS THE FENCE ITSELF -- FORM A CONTI PIOUS REVIEW.

’’PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS BRINGING FORWARD SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENTS. J WOULDN’T RUL OUT THE POSSIBILITY OF SOME IMPROVEMENTS TN THE NEAR FUTURE,” HE SAID.

WHEN ASKED WHETHER TH VOLUNTEERS WOULD BE DISBANDED BEFORE 1 997, MR UPTON SAID: ”1 THIN’’ YOU’VE HEARD COL. HUTCHINS (COMMANDING OFFICER OF THE REGIMENT) -- 'O DECISIONS HAVE BEEN TAKEN YET ON THE FUTURE OF THE VOLUNTEERS.

’’FOR THE TIME BEING THEY'RE AN INVALUABLE ASSET TO THE HONG

KONG GOVERNMENT IN THE MA1NT :ANCE OF PUBLIC ORDER AND WE REGARD

THEIR SERVICES VERY HIGHLY 11'DEED.

”WE HOPE THAT THEY’L CONTINUE FOR A LONG TIME TO COME, PERFORMING THEIR VALUABLE SE1VICT TO THE PUBLIC.”

TURNING TO THE DEFENCE COST AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE HONG KONG AND BRITISH GOVERNMENTS, MR UPTON SAID THE THIRD ROUND OF NEGOTIATIONS WOULD TAKE PL.Cl IN ABOUT TWO WEEKS' TIME, BUT HE CLARIFIED THAT THE AGREEMENT HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH FORCE LEVELS OR. WITHDRAWAL PLANS.

- - - - 0 - - - -

JVC’S REPORT ON MISSING BARS CONSIDERED BY GOVT t t t ♦ ♦

THE GOVERNMENT HAS CONSIDERED A REPORT FROM THE GUANGDONG NUCLEAR POWER JOINT VENTURE COMPANY ON THE MISSING STARTER BARS AT THE DAYA BAY NUCLEAR ‘POWER STATION.

IN THE LIGHT OF THIS REPORT AND SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION THAT WAS GIVEN TO THE BOARD OF THE JONG KONG NUCLEAR INVESTMENT COMPANY, THE GOVERNMENT IS SATISFIED THAT ALL REASONABLE STEPS HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO INVESTIGATE THE CIRC INSTANCES SURROUNDING THE RECENT NON-CONFORMANCE PROBLEM AND T I AT APPROPRIATE REMEDIAL MEASURES ARE BEING TAKEN.

/the GOVERNMENT

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5» 1987

THE GOVERNMENT IS GENERALLY REASSURED THAT:

(A) WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE 316 MISSING STARTER BARS, ALL OTHER REINFORCEMENT BARS SPECIFIED FOR THE FIRST LAYER OF THE FOUNDATION (THESE EXCEED 14,500) HAVE BEEN INCORPORATED. THE DESIGNER ELECTRICITE DE FRANCE HAS CONFIRMED THE INTEGRITY OF THE FIRST LAYER OF THE FOUNDATION;

(B) THE EDF PROPOSED REMEDIAL SOLUTION WILL RESTORE THE INTEGRITY OF THE REACTOR CONTAINMENT BUILDING TO AN EQUIVALENT OF THE ORIGINAL DESIGN. AN ASSURANCE TO THIS EFFECT HAS BEEN GIVEN, IN WRITING, BY EDF TO THE JOINT VENTURE COMPANY;

(C) IMPROVEMENTS ARE BEING MADE TO THE QUALITY CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS AT DAYA BAY TO AVOID SIMILAR RECURRENCES IN THE FUTURE. IN ADDITION TO DEPLOYING MORE STAFF, QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES HAVE BEEN TIGHTENED AND BOTH THE CONTRACTOR AND THE JOINT VENTURE COMPANY WILL ENSURE THAT 100 PER CENT CHECKS ARE MADE ON ALL WORK BEING UNDERTAKEN TO ENSURE THAT IT IS IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE APPROVED PLANS.

THE GOVERNMENT THEREFORE CAN SEE NO COMPELLING REASONS WHY NORMAL WORK AT THE DAYA BAY SITE SHOULD NOT RESUME. THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN INFORMED THAT GNPJVC IS PLANNING TO RESUME WORK ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7.

--------0-----------

JAIL SENTENCE FOR IMPORTING MEAT WITHOUT PERMISSION ♦ * ♦ * ♦

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH EMPHASISED TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT ANY PERSON WHO IMPORTS FRESH OR FROZEN MEAT AND POULTRY TO THE TERRITORY WITHOUT AN OFFICIAL CERTIFICATE AND WITHOUT THE PERMISSION OF A HEALTH OFFICER IS LIABLE TO PROSECUTION.

HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR SUCH AN OFFENCE IS A FINE OF $25,000 AND SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT.

CITING A RECENT CASE, AS A DETERRENT, THE SPOKESMAN SAID A 33-YEAR-OLD MAN, TAM HOK-LING, WAS CONVICTED BY A MAGISTRATE AT KWUN TONG MAGISTRACY AND JAILED FOR THREE MONTHS FOR ILLEGALLY IMPORTING ABOUT 12 TONNES OF FROZEN SUCKLING PIGS INTO HONG KONG FROM CHINA WITHOUT AN OFFICIAL CERTICICATE AND WITHOUT THE PERMISSION OF A HEALTH OFFICER.

TAM COMMITTED THE OFFENCE ON OCTOBER 30 THIS YEAR BY IMPORTING THE FROZEN PIGS FROM SHEKOU ON BOARD A CHINESE VESSEL WHICH WAS INTERCEPTED BY MARINE POLICE AT THE KOWLOON BAY CARGO HANDLING BASIN.

HE WAS HANDED OVER TO OFFICERS OF THE FOOD SECTION OF THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH FOR INVESTIGATION AND WAS SUBSEQUENTLY CHARGED.

------o------- /31....................

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

SECOND QUARTER SHIPPING, PORT * * *

AND CARGO STATISTICS RELEASED * »

IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987, 3,787 SHIPS WITH A TOTAL CAPACITY OF 22.6 MILLION NET REGISTERED TONS (NRT) ARRIVED IN HONG KONG, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 376 (OR 11 PER CENT) IN NUMBER AND OF 2.6 MILLION NRT (OR 13 PER CENT) IN CAPACITY OVER THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1986, ACCORDING TO THE "HONG KONG SHIPPING STATISTICS REPORT" PUBLISHED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.

DURING THE SAME PERIOD, THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CARGO DISCHARGED IN HONG KONG FROM INCOMING SHIPS (ESTIMATED FROM A SAMPLE OF MANIFEST CONSIGNMENTS) INCREASED BY 11 PER CENT.

WHEN ANALYSED BY SHIP TYPE, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE NUMBER OF CONTAINER VESSELS (1-197), DRY BULK CARRIERS (+32) AND SEMI-CONTAINER VESSELS (+28). INCREASES IN NUMBER WERE RECORDED FOR SHIPS REGISTERED IN CHINA (+158) AND PANAMA (+109), BUT A DECREASE WAS RECORDED FOR THOSE REGISTERED IN THE U.S.A. (-36). THE NUMBER OF SHIPS WITH A CAPACITY OF LESS THAN 10,000 DEADWEIGHT TONS INCREASED (+190).

IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987, THERE WERE 3,771 OUTGOING SHIPS WITH A TOTAL CAPACITY OF 22.6 MILLION NRT, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 384 (OR 11 PER CENT) IN NUMBER AND OF 2.6 MILLION NRT (OR 13 PER CENT) IN CAPACITY OVER THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1986. THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CARGO LOADED ONTO OUTGOING SHIPS (ESTIMATED FROM A SAMPLE OF MANIFEST CONSIGNMENTS) ROSE BY 17 PER CENT. ABOUT 64 PER CENT OF THE DEPARTING SHIPS STAYED IN HONG KONG FOR LESS THAN TWO DAYS.

OF THE CARGO DISCHARGED FROM INCOMING SHIPS, 84 PER CENT IN TERMS OF TONNAGE WAS IMPORTS AND 16 PER CENT WAS TRANSHIPMENT CARGO. OF THE CARGO LOADED ONTO OUTGOING SHIPS, 55 PER CENT WAS EXPORTS (INCLUDING DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS) AND 45 PER CENT WAS TRANSHIPMENT CARGO.

THE MAJOR COUNTRIES OF LOADING FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS IN TONNAGE TERMS WERE CHINA (15 PER CENT), SINGAPORE (14 PER CENT), JAPAN (13 PER CENT), SOUTH AFRICA (10 PER CENT) AND AUSTRALIA (9 PER CENT), WHILE THE MAJOR COUNTRIES OF DISCHARGE FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS WERE THE U.S.A. (22 PER CENT), TAIWAN (11 PER CENT), CHINA (9 PER CENT) AND JAPAN (7 PER CENT). TRANSHIPMENT CARGO WAS MAINLY LOADED IN CHINA (29 PER CENT) AND THE U.S.A. (23 PER CENT); AND WAS MAINLY DISCHARGED IN CHINA (21 PER CENT) AND THE U.S.A. (12 PER CENT).

COMPARING THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987 WITH THE SAME QUARTER IN 1986, INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE NOTED FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM SOUTH KOREA (+61 PER CENT), CHINA (+54 PER CENT), WEST GERMANY (+48 PER CENT), AUSTRALIA (+33 PER CENT) AND TAIWAN (+12 PER CENT); BUT DECREASES IN TONNAGE WERE NOTED FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM THE U.S.A. (-22 PER CENT), SOUTH AFRICA (-12 PER CENT) AND SINGAPORE (-11 PER CENT).

/AS A

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 198?

- 32 -

AS A WHOLE, THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF SEABORNE IMPORTS ROSE BY EIGHT PER CENT. AMONG THE PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES, INCREASES IN CARGO TONNAGE WERE RECORDED FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS OF CORK AND WOOD MANUFACTURES (+103 PER CENT), ARTIFICIAL RESINS AND PLASTIC MATERIALS (+79 PER CENT) AND CRUDE ANIMAL AND VEGETABLE MATERIALS, NOT ELSEWHERE SPECIFIED (+54 PER CENT); BUT DECREASES WERE RECORDED FOR SEABORNE IMPORTS OF INORGANIC CHEMICALS (-25 PER CENT) AND PETROLEUM, PETROLEUM PRODUCTS AND RELATED MATERIALS (-21 PER CENT).

DURING THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987, THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF SEABORNE EXPORTS (DOMESTIC EXPORTS PLUS RE-EXPORTS) INCREASED BY 10 PER CENT. INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE RECORDED FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS TO THAILAND (+153 PER CENT), SOUTH KOREA (+150 PER CENT), JAPAN (+86 PER CENT), THE UNITED KINGDOM (+28 PER CENT) AND THE U.S.A. (+23 PER CENT). AMONG THE PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES, INCREASES IN TONNAGE WERE NOTED FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS OF MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES, NOT ELSEWHERE SPECIFIED (+126 PER CENT), COTTON TEXTILES (+71 PER CENT), CLAY AND KAOLIN (+58 PER CENT) AND METALLIFEROUS ORES AND METAL SCRAP (+36 PER CENT), BUT DECREASES IN TONNAGE WERE NOTED FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS OF VEGETABLES AND FRUIT (-57 PER CENT) AND PETROLEUM, PETROLEUM PRODUCTS AND RELATED MATERIALS (-43 PER CENT).

OF THE CARGO DISCHARGED FROM INCOMING SHIPS, INCLUDING SEABORNE IMPORTS AND INWARD TRANSHIPMENT, 31 PER CENT IN TERMS OF TONNAGE WAS CONTAINERISED CARGO. OF THOSE LOADED ONTO OUTGOING SHIPS, INCLUDING SEABORNE EXPORTS AND OUTWARD TRANSHIPMENT, 74 PER CENT WAS CONTAINERISED CARGO.

IN TERMS OF TONNAGE, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR 26 PER CENT OF SEABORNE IMPORTS. IN PARTICULAR, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR A LARGE PROPORTION OF SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM THE NETHERLANDS (86 PERCENT), THE U.S.A. (77 PER CENT), THE UNITED KINGDOM (59 PER CENT) AND WEST GERMANY (58 PER CENT). THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CONTAINERISED SEABORNE IMPORTS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987 ROSE BY 29 PER CENT OVER THE SAME QUARTER IN 1986.

AMONG THE PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR, IN TONNAGE TERMS, 95 PER CENT OF SEABORNE IMPORTS OF ARTIFICIAL RESINS AND PLASTIC MATERIALS, 85 PER CENT OF TEXTILES OF MAN-MADF FIBRES, 84 PER CENT OF PAPER, PAPERBOARD AND ARTICLES OF PAPER PULP, OF PAPER OR OF PAPERBOARD AND 83 PER CENT OF CHEMICAL MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS, NOT ELSEWHERE SPECIFIED.

FOR SEABORNE EXPORTS, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR 72 PER CENT IN TERMS OF TONNAGE. IN PARTICULAR, CONTAINERISED CARGO ACCOUNTED FOR ALMOST ALL OF THE SEABORNE EXPORTS TO THE U.S.A., THE UNITED KINGDOM, WEST GERMANY AND THE NETHERLANDS. THE TOTAL TONNAGE OF CONTAINERISED SEABORNE EXPORTS TN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987 ROSE BY 33 PER CENT OVER THE SAME QUARTER IN 1986.

/AMONG THE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- 53 -

AMONG THE PRINCIPAL COMMODITIES, ALL OR ALMOST ALL SEABORNE EXPORTS OF COTTON GARMENTS; TOYS; GARMENTS OF MIXED MATERIALS OR OTHER MATERIALS, NOT ELSEWHERE SPECIFIED; PLASTIC MANUFACTURES, NOT ELSEWHERE SPECIFIED; COTTON TEXTILES AND MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES, NOT ELSEWHERE SPECIFIED; WERE CONTAINERISED.

SHIPPING STATISTICS ARE COMPILED PRIMARILY FROM GENERAL DECLARATIONS SUBMITTED TO THE MARINE DEPARTMENT BY SHIPOWNERS OR AUTHORISED SHIPPING AGENTS AND COVER ALL OCEAN-GOING VESSELS ENTERING AND LEAVING HONG KONG, EXCLUDING YACHTS AND PLEASURE CRAFT. PORT AND CARGO STATISTICS ARE COMPILED FROM OCEAN MANIFESTS SUPPLIED BY SHIPPING COMPANIES OR AGENTS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT. BECAUSE OF RESOURCE CONSTRAINTS, A SAMPLE OF ALL CONSIGNMENTS LISTED IN THE MANIFESTS IS USED FOR COMPILING THE STATISTICS. THE SAMPLING METHOD IS DESCRIBED IN THE EXPLANATORY NOTES OF THE REPORT.

MORE DETAILS ON SHIPPING, PORT AND CARGO STATISTICS FOR THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987 ARE CONTAINED IN THE "HONG KONG SHIPPING STATISTICS REPORT" FOR APRIL TO JUNE 1987, WHICH IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT CENTRE, AT $19.50 PER COPY.

ENQUIRIES ON STATISTICS PROVIDED IN THE REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE SHIPPING STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON 5-8234887.

-------0----------

OFFENDERS GIVEN CONSTRUCTIVE CORRECTIONAL PROGRAMMES » * » * *

THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAS SUCCEEDED OVER THE YEARS IN MAINTAINING AN ORDERLY ENVIRONMENT IN PENAL INSTITUTIONS, AND IN PROVIDING OFFENDERS UNDER ITS CARE WITH CONSTRUCTIVE CORRECTIONAL PROGRAMMES, INCLUDING ANTI-CORRUPTION MESSAGES.

THE COMMISSIONER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, MR CHAN WA-SHEK, SAID THIS AT TODAY’S (THURSDAY) SESSION OF THE THIRD INTERNATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION CONFERENCE.

SPEAKING ON THE SUBJECT OF CORRECTIONAL MEASURES AND REHABILITION SCHEMES, MR CHAN SAID HIS DEPARTMENT HAD LIAISED CLOSELY WITH ANTI-CORRUPTION AUTHORITIES TO PREVENT CORRUPTION IN PENAL INSTITUTIONS.

/STAFF MEMBERS

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- J4 -

STAFF MEMBERS OF THE DEPARTMENT WERE GIVEN LECTURES BY THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION IN THEIR BASIC TRAINING COURSE, AND EVERY PRISONER, UPON ADMISSION TO INSTITUTIONS, WAS BRIEFED AND THEIR FAMILIES ADVISED TO REPORT TO THE DEPARTMENT OR THE ICAC SHOULD THEY BE APPROACHED FOR MONEY OR REMUNERATIONS FOR "FAVOURS".

MOREOVER, MR CHAN SAID, ANTI-CORRUPTION POSTERS WERE PROMINENTLY DISPLAYED AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS IN PENAL INSTITUTIONS, AND A JOINT LIAISON GROUP WITH DIRECTORATE OFFICERS FROM BOTH THE DEPARTMENT AND THE ICAC MET REGULARLY TO DISCUSS PROBLEMS AND OTHER PREVENTIVE MEASURES.

MR CHAN ALSO GAVE AN ACCOUNT OF THE DEPARTMENT’S DIFFERENT PROGRAMMES FOR DIFFERENT OFFENDERS. THESE PROGRAMMES, THOUGH RUN DIFFERENTLY, CARRIED A COMMON AIM OF REHABILITATING THE OFFENDERS, IN THEIR HEALTH, EDUCATION, OCCUPATION, VALUES AND GOAL IN LIFE AS WELL AS TEACHING THEM A RESPECT FOR LAW AND ORDER, HE SAID.

"THE DEPARTMENT IS MAKING EVERY ATTEMPT TO IMPROVE ITS PROGRAMMES BY THE USE OF MORE SOCIAL SCIENCE KNOWLEDGE AND BETTER TECHNIQUES. AT THE SAME TIME, WE ARE MAKING AN ACTIVE EFFORT TO INTRODUCE MORE REHABILITATIVE MEASURES INTO THE LAW IN THE HOPE THAT MORE OF HONG KONG’S OFFENDERS CAN BE MOTIVATED TO FORESAKE A LIFE OF CRIME," MR CHAN SAID.

MARINE CHIEF GIVES ADVICE TO SEA SCHOOL GRADUATES * * * * »

GRADUATES OF THE HONG KONG SEA SCHOOL WERE TOLD TODAY (THURSDAY) TO REMEMBER THAT WHATEVER THEIR POSITION ON THEIR SHIP MIGHT BE, IT WOULD BE AN IMPORTANT ONE.

"YOU WILL BE EXPECTED OBEDIENTLY TO CARRY OUT YOUR DUTIES PROMPTLY, WILLINGLY AND TO THE BEST OF YOUR ABILITY," THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR GERRY HIGGINSON, SAID AT THE SEA SCHOOL’S PASSING OUT PARADE THIS MORNING.

"BY SO DOING, YOU WILL ENHANCE THE IMAGE OF HONG KONG SEAMEN AND GAIN BOTH PERSONAL SATISFACTION AND A SENSE OF SECURITY."

MR HIGGINSON, WHO ALSO PRESENTED SCHOOL LEAVING CERTIFICATES TO THE GRADUATES, SAID THEY HAD BEEN PROVIDED WITH THE FINEST PRE-SEA TRAINING OF ITS TYPE AVAILABLE IN HONG KONG.

/HE SAID

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- 35 -

HE SAID THEY WOULD IN FUTURE YEARS HAVE CAUSE TO REMEMBER THE SEA SCHOOL WHICH HAD GIVEN THEM SUCH A GOOD BASIC KNOWLEDGE OF SEAMANSHIP AND STAMINA AND HAD TAUGHT THEM ALL THE NEED FOR DISCIPLINE, AND, IN PARTICULAR, FOR SELF-DISCIPLINE.

"ALL OF THIS HAS EQUIPPED YOU TO BE WHERE YOU ARE TODAY, ON THE THRESHOLD OF CAREERS IN THE MERCHANT NAVY," HE ADDED.

MR HIGGINSON SAID THEY HAD DONE WELL IN THEIR CHOICE OF A FINE CAREER.

"YOUR MINDS WILL BE BROADENED AND YOUR INTERESTS WIDENED AS YOU VISIT DISTANT LANDS, SEE STRANGE SIGHTS AND MEET PEOPLE FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES AND DIFFERENT CULTURES," HE SAID.

MR HIGGINSON ALSO TOLD THE STUDENTS THAT IF THEY WERE AMBITIOUS, THEY WOULD HAVE EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO ADVANCE THEMSELVES.

HE NOTED THAT SOME OF THEIR PREDECESSORS HAD GONE ON TO BECOME SHIPS’ OFFICERS, SHIPMASTERS AND HARBOUR PILOTS AND THREE EX-SEA SCHOOL STUDENTS NOW SERVED AS PROFESSIONAL MARINE OFFICERS IN THE MARINE DEPARTMENT.

MR HIGGINSON SAID THEY SHOULD VIEW THEIR FUTURE WITH COMPLETE OPTIMISM.

"YOU CAN LOOK FORWARD TO SAILING IN BIGGER, SAFER AND TECHNICALLY MORE SOPHISTICATED SHIPS THAN YOUR PREDECESSORS.

"YOU WILL BE WITNESSING THE CHANGES THAT TAKE PLACE IN EVERY GROWTH INDUSTRY, AND SEE THE ALTERATIONS THAT WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE LARGE PORTS OF THE WORLD IN ORDER TO SERVE THE GIANT AND SPECIALISED SHIPS OF THE FUTURE."

THE INDUSTRY, MR HIGGINSON SAID, WOULD OFFER UNEQUALLED OPPORTUNITY FOR CAREER ADVANCEMENT.

"THE REWARDS WILL GO TO THOSE WHO ARE BEST TRAINED, MOST COMPETENT, WELL DISCIPLINED AND WHO CAN SUCCESSFULLY ADAPT TO THE DEMANDS OF A CHANGING ENVIRONMENT," HE ADDED.

-------o----------

/36........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB TO BREAK WORLD RECORD ♦ t t ♦ ♦

THE 210,OOO-STRONG COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WILL CELEBRATE ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A WORLD RECORD BREAKING EVENT FOR CHARITY, AN ANNUAL PARADE, A TELEVISION SERICE, AND A CAMPAIGN FOR THE ELDERLY.

AN ATTEMPT WILL BE MADE TO BREAK THE WORLD’S BIGGEST POSTER RECORD IN THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS WHEN 400 CYC MEMBERS ASSEMBLE AT FOOTBALL PITCHES NO. 4 AND 5 OF VICTORIA PARK ON NOVEMBER 12 TO CONSTRUCT A 50 M X 50 M POSTER ON THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY THEME OF "HONG KONG - MY HOME".

THE HUGE COLOUR POSTER, EQUIVALENT IN SIZE TO 12 BASKETBALL COURTS, WILL BE MADE UP OF 15,000 CARDBOARD PIECES, EACH MEASURING 50 CM X 50 CM AND HAND-PAINTED BY CYC MEMBERS.

THE CYC POSTER WILL BE 25 PER CENT BIGGER THAN THE ONE LISTED IN THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS. THIS WAS MADE BY STUDENTS OF OSAKA GAKUIN UNIVERSITY IN JAPAN IN OCTOBER 1984. THE POSTER WILL BE PHOTOGRAPHED FROM A HELICOPTER AND THE PHOTOGRAPHS WILL BE SENT TO THE EDITORIAL BOARD OF THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS FOR RECOGNITION AS THE LARGEST POSTER IN THE WORLD.

THE POSTER WILL BE DISPLAYED BEFORE MORE THAN 10,000 CYC MEMBERS AND GUESTS AT THE CYC 10TH ANNIVERSARY ANNUAL PARADE AT THE HONG KONG COLISEUM ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20. THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y.T. LI, WHO IS ALSO CYC PRESIDENT, WILL TAKE THE SALUTE AND PRESENT AWARDS TO CYC MEMBERS WHO HAVE GIVEN DISTINGUISHED SERVICE.

THE PARADE WILL ALSO FEATURE BAND MARCHES AND A TELESCREEN SHOW ON THE HISTORY OF THE CYC.

RATHER THAN GOING INTO THE WASTE PAPER BASKET, EACH COMPONENT CARDBOARD PIECE OF THE POSTER WILL BE DIVIDED INTO SIX SMALLER PIECES. EACH OF THESE CARDS, CARRYING A MINIATURE OF THE BIG POSTER AND A PERSONAL MESSAGE OR DRAWING BY A CYC MEMBER, WILL BE SOLD AS A CHRISTMAS CARD AT $5 TO FRIENDS AND RELATIVES OF CYC MEMBERS TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE ELDERLY. IT IS EXPECTED THAT ABOUT $450,000 WILL BE RAISED FOR DONATION TO VARIOUS HOMES FOR THE AGED.

REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE 19 CYC DISTRICTS THROUGHOUT HONG KONG WILL GATHER AT VICTORIA PARK AGAIN ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, TO PLEDGE THEIR ALLEGIANCE TO THE SPIRIT OF CYC - IN SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY - AT A CEREMONY TO COINCIDE WITH THE LAUNCHING OF A 13-EPISODE TV SERIES ON CYC ACTIVITIES PRODUCED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG AND THE SING TAO GROUP OF NEWSPAPERS.

THE 15-MINUTE PROGRAMME, WITH A CAST OF CYC MEMBERS AND FILM AND TV STARS, WILL BE BROADCAST ON TVB-JADE ON SUNDAYS, AT 4.15 PM, COMMENCING ON DECEMBER 13.

/ALSO ATTENDING

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

- 37 -

ALSO ATTENDING THE MASS RALLY WILL BE MR LI; THE DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING, MISS CHEUNG MAN-YEE; AND MISS AW SIAN OF THE SING TAO LIMITED. KUNG-FU STAR JACKIE CHAN WILL JOIN CYC MEMBERS IN ENTERTAINING GUESTS AT THE CEREMONY.

FOR CYC GIRLS WHO WISH TO DO SOMETHING FOR THE ELDERLY, A WOOLLEN SHAWL KNITTING OPERATION HAS BEEN ORGANISED. THEY MAY CONTRIBUTE TO THIS OPERATION BY KNITTING AS MANY 18 CM X 18 CM PIECES OF NEEDLEWORK AS THEY LIKE. SOME 21 PIECES OF NEEDLEWORK WILL BE SEWN TOGETHER TO FORM A SHAWL. ABOUT 950 SHAWLS WILL BE REQUIRED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO THE ELDERLY AT A FUN DAY FOR THE AGED THAT CYC MEMBERS WILL ORGANISE TOWARDS THE LUNAR NEW YEAR PERIOD. THE EVENT WILL BE SPONSORED BY THE LAWS TRUST FUND WHICH WAS SET UP LAST YEAR TO HELP PROMOTE CYC ACTIVITIES.

THE HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE CYC WILL BE RECORDED IN A CYC 10TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE PUBLICATION TO BE PRODUCED UNDER THE SPONSORSHIP OF 303 DISTRICT OF THE LIONS CLUB.

-----0-----

YMT COMMUNITY CENTRE TO HOLD OPEN DAY ♦ * ♦ ♦

YAU MA TEI RESIDENTS WILL BE ABLE TO TAKE A GOOD LOOK AT VARIOUS FACILITIES AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE DISTRICT’S COMMUNITY CENTRE AT AN OPEN DAY ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 7).

LOCATED AT 60 PUBLIC SQUARE STREET, THE HENRY G. LEONG YAU MA TEI COMMUNITY CENTRE WAS BUILT IN 1982 AND HAS BEEN UNDER THE MANAGEMENT OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE SINCE JUNE 1985.

ITS FACILITIES COMPRISE AN AIR-CONDITIONED MULTI-PURPOSE HALL WITH A SEATING CAPACITY OF 800, COVERED PLAYGROUND, BASKETBALL COURT AND A SEVEN-FLOOR WELFARE BLOCK OFFERING VARIOUS SERVICES PROVIDED BY VOLUNTARY AGENCIES, LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.

THE SERVICES INCLUDE A CLUB FOR FORMER MENTAL PATIENTS, YOUTH AND ADULT GROUP ACTIVITIES, OUTREACHING SERVICE, A DAY CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY AND A NURSERY.

THE OPEN DAY HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE CENTRE’S MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE IN SUPPORT OF THE CURRENT DISTRICT FESTIVAL. GAME STALLS AND A BOOTH PROVIDING FREE EYE-CARE WILL BE SET UP. THERE WILL ALSO BE A VARIETY SHOW TO FOSTER A FESTIVE ATMOSPHERE.

/THOSE OFFICIATING

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER J, 1987

- 38 -

THOSE OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE YAU MA TEI DISTRICT OFFICER, MR AUGUSTINE CHENG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR YIP WAH; URBAN COUNCILLOR MR KWAN LIM-HO, AND DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER MR SO CHUNG-PING.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPEN DAY OF THE HENRY G. LEONG YAU MA TEI COMMUNITY CENTRE TO START AT 2.30 PM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 7).

-------0 --------

REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY AT CENOTAPH

*****

THE REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT THE CENOTAPH IN STATUE SQUARE THIS SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8) IN HONOUR OF THOSE WHO HAD GIVEN THEIR LIVES IN ACTIVE SERVICE.

WREATHS WILL BE LAID BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON; THE COMMANDER BRITISH FORCES, MAJOR-GENERAL GARRY JOHNSON; THE CHIEF JUSTICE, SIR DENYS ROBERTS; REPRESENTATIVES OF THE EXECUTIVE A LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS; COMMONWEALTH COMMISSIONERS; THE COMMISSIONER POLICE, MR RAYMON ANNING; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL, MR J FORSGATE; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG, AND CHAIRMEN OF THE DISTRICT BOARDS.

WREATHS WILL ALSO BE LAID BY SERVICE COMMANDERS, AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, SERVICE UNITS, TRADITIONAL COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS, EX-SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATIONS, SOCIETIES AND OTHER BODIES.

THE CEREMONY WILL START AT 11 AM AND WILL END ABOUT 11.30 AM.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

A PRESS POSITION FOR COVERING THE CEREMONY HAS BEEN P 'SERVED TO THE WEST OF THE CENOTAPH. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES COVERING THE CEREMONY SHOULD ASSEMBLE AT THE ENTRANCE OF BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, CENTRAL, BY 10.20 AM TO COLLECT BADGES FOR ADMISSION TO THE CEREMONY. GIS OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ESCORT THEM TO THE PRESS POSITION.

-------0--------- /39...................

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

YUEN LONG DB CULTURE COMMITTEE TO MEET * * * ♦ ♦

THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD’S CULTURE COMMITTEE WILL MEET TOMORROW (FRIDAY) TO DISCUSS VARIOUS CULTURAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE DISTRICT IN THE COMING MONTHS. > .

V I

THE ACTIVITIES INCLUDE THE REGIONAL COUNCIL’S CULTURAL PRESENTATIONS AND ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMMES, THE YUEN LONG PUBLIC LIBRARY’S EXTENSION PROJECT, THE MUSIC OFFICE’S INSTRUMENTAL TRAINING CLASSES AND DISTRICT BOARD SPONSORED EVENTS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CULTURE COMMITTEE MEETING OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD TO BEGIN TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT 3 PM IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD, 13TH FLOOR, TAI KIU GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 2 KIU LOK SQUARE, YUEN LONG.

0 - -

VARIETY SHOW WILL START SHAM SHUI PO FESTIVAL * * * * ♦

THE 1987 SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL OPEN ON MOND? NOVEMBER 16, WITH A VARIETY SHOW TO BE HELD AT THE HONG ’<C COLISEUM, BEGINNING AT 8 PM.

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MISS LYDIA DUNN, AND THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR T.H. CHAU.

THE SHOW’S PROGRAMME INCLUDES PARADE BY A CIVIL AID SERVICES TEAM, SINGING, AND A DRAMA SHOW BY TELEVISION ARTISTS.

A POP CONCERT, FEATURING SINGERS SUCH AS FRANCES YIP, CALLY KWONG, SANDY LAM, TERENCE TSOI AND TAT’S PAIR, WILL BE i’ELD AS PART OF THE SHOW.

FREE ADMISSION TICKETS WILL BE . AVAILABLE FROM MONDAY (NOVEMBER 9) AT THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT OFFICE, 39 TONKIN STREET, KOWLOON, AND ITS SUB-OFICES.

DETAILS OF THE FIVE-WEEK FESTIVAL, WHICH PROVIDES 61 ACTIVITIES FOR SHAM SHUI PO RESIDENTS, WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE.

LAST YEAR, MORE THAN 70,000 RESIDENTS PARTICIPATED IN FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES.

0 -

/4O

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

40 -

SPEEDPOST WEIGHT INCREASE * ♦ * * ♦

THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT FOR A SPEEDPOST ITEM TO NEW ZEALA WILL BE INCREASED FROM 10 KG TO 20 KG, WITH EFFECT FROM NOVEMBER 9, - , THE

POSTMASTER GENERAL ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY).

THE SPEEDPOST SERVICE IS A FAST AND RELIZx? FORWARDING BUSINESS DOCUMENTS, SAMPLES AND MERCHANDISE OVERSEAS. A FREE PICK-UP SERVICE IS AVAILABLE.

CUSTOMERS REQUIRING MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE S : ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT THE POSTAL SERVICES REPRESENTATIVES O “1108.

-----0------

FREE JAZZ AND POPULAR MUSIC CONCERT ♦ ♦ * ♦ ♦

A FREE CONCERT FEATURING A SELECTION OF JAZZ, POPL’LA’? AND FILM MUSIC WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 7) AT KO SHAN THEA

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC CAN OBTAIN ADMISSION TICKETS A’i V OF THE FOUR BRANCH OFFICES OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE AT SAN PO KONG, LOK FU SHOPPING CENTRE, TZE WAN SHAN ESTATE AND CHOI WAN EST/\ .

THE CONCERT WILL BE GIVEN BY THE PAN-ASIA SYMPHONY ORCHEST CONDUCTED BY MR YIP WAI-HONG.

IT IS ORGANISED BY THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL. SPONSORED BY THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD AND SUBSIDISED BY THF URBAN COUNCIL.

--------0 ---------

500 TO TAKE PART IN TUEN MUN ATHLETIC MEET

*****

ABOUT 500 YOUTHS WILL TAKE PART IN VARIOUS FI TRACK EVENTS OF THE 12TH TUEN MUN ATHLETIC MEET ON SUNDAY (NO\ 8,' AT THE TUEN MUN TANG SHIU KIN SPORTS GROUND.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MEET WILL BE THE FOUR BY 100-METRE 'T DEPARTMENTS RELAY INVITATION COMPETITION AND THE WOMEN'S — LAY COMPETITION.

-----0------

/41........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1987

THE FUNCTION IS ORGANISED BY THE TUEN MUN SPORTS ASSOCIATION AND REGIONAL COUNCIL AND SPONSORED BY THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICE.

THERE WILL BE AN OPENING CEREMONY AT 11 AM ON THAT DAY. OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE THE VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE TUEN MUN SPORTS ASSOCIATION, MR LAW TZE-YUEN; ACTING TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDWARD YAU; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE TUEN MUN AREA COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR HO SUN-KUEN.

---0------

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF TSING YI BRIDGE

*****

TSING YI BRIDGE WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FROM 12.30 AM TO 2.30 AM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8) SO THAT THE STRUCTURE OF THE BRIDGE CAN BE MONITORED.

THE BRIDGE WILL ALSO BE CLOSED FROM 6.30 AM TO 7.30 AM AND FROM 3 PM TO 4 PM ON THE SAME DAY.

DURING THE CLOSURE, THE BRIDGE WILL BE RE-OPENED TO GENERAL TRAFFIC AT A FIVE-MINUTE INTERVAL, AND IMMEDIATELY FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES.

0 -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

' ISSUED BY'GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777

......... • • •

* FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

........ CONTENTS PAGE NO.

PRICE, VOLUME MOVEMENTS GF EXTERNAL TRADE IN AUGUST........ 1

REVISED FILM CENSORSHIP BILL PUBLISHED..................... 5

CONSULTANT ENGAGED'FOR AIRPORT CAPACITY STUDY.............. 6

APPLICATION PROCEDURE FOR-TV RELAY LICENCES SIMPLIFIED... 7

CHIEF SECRETARY TO VISIT CSD FAIR.......................... 8

HONG KONG MAINTAINS GOOD LABOUR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS..... 9

CALL TO BETTER UTILISE SKILLS, TALENTS OF LABOUR FORCE... 9

NEW AIRCRAFT FOR RHKAAF .................................. 11

ACCORD REACHED ON QUOTA LEVEL ADJUSTMENT ................. 11

NO-SMOKING AREAS WILL PROTECT PUBLIC HEALTH............... 12

$240,000 RAISED BY TUEN MUN FESTIVAL ..................... 13

PRE-WAR BUILDING IN CENTRAL DECLARED DANGEROUS ........... 14

FIREMEN TO DEMONSTRATE AT CAREERS EXHIBITION ............. 14

TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO MEET ..................... 15

HOME SAFETY ATTENTION TURNS TO THE ELDERLY................ 15

SOUTHERN DISTRICT HOLDING ROAD SAFETY DAY................. 16

CONCERTS MARK MUSIC OFFICE ANNIVERSARY.................... 17

1981 PRIVATE CARS COME UNDER INSPECTION SCHEME............ 18

TT> CARD REMINDER FOR MEN BORN IN 1963-64................. 19

FIRING PRACTICE DAYS FOR NOVEMBER......................... 21

/GRAND OPENING .....

CONTENTS

GRAND OPINING FOR TUEN MUN FESTIVAL ........................... 22

ESSAY COMPETITION TO COMBAT CRIME.............................. 22

EQUESTRIAN SHOW TO LAUNCH SPORTS FESTIVAL ..................... 23

LAND SPORTS SAFETY D*Y ON SUNDAY............................... 24

SAI KUNG BLOOD DONATION EXERCISE............................... 25

TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL BEGINS.............................. 26

EYE CARE CAMPAIGN FOR ELDERLY STARTS TOMORROW .................. 26

CENTRAL, WESTERN SPORT FESTIVAL OPENS ON SUNDAY ................ 2?

FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL IN MONG KOK................................ 28

DREDGING OF NORTHERN FAIRWAY IN VICTORIA HARBOUR................ 28

TSUEN WAN ROAD TO BE CLOSED AT NIGHT .......................... 29

TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN CENTRA ................................. 29

TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY.................... '30

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

PRICE, VOLUME MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN AUGUST

*****

STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT INDICATED THAT THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS GREW BY 27 PER CENT AND 49 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN THE FIRST EIGHT MONTHS OF 1987 AS COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR. HENCE, THERE WAS AN OVERALL INCREASE OF 36 PER CENT IN THE VOLUME OF TOTAL EXPORTS. IMPORTS INCREASED BY 34 PER CENT IN VOLUME TERMS. ON THE SAME BASIS OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS ROSE BY THREE PER CENT AND TWO PER CEN'l RESPECTIVELY, SO THAT THE PRICES OF TOTAL EXPORTS INCREASED BY THREE PER CENT. PRICES OF IMPORTS, ON THE OTHER HAND, ROSE BY FOUR PER CENT. AS A RESULT, THE TERMS OF TRADE INDEX (EXPRESSED AS A RATIO OF THE TOTAL EXPORT PRICE INDEX TO THE IMPORT PRICE INDEX) DROPPED BY ONE PER CENT.

COMPARING AUGUST 1987 WITH AUGUST 1986, THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS INCREASED BY 22 PER CENT AND 49 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. HENCE, TOTAL EXPORTS GREW BY 33 PER CENT IN VOLUME TERMS. IMPORT VOLUME INCREASED BY 32 PER CENT. ON THF SAME BASTS OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS ROSE BY THREE PER CENT; RE-EXPORTS PRICES ROSE BY TWO PER CENT WHILE IMPORT PRICES ROSE BY THREE PER CENT.

PRICES ARE BASED ON UNIT VALUES WHICH DO NOT TAKE INTO ACCOUNT CHANGES IN THE COMPOSITION OR QUALITY OF GOODS TRADED, EXCEPT FOR SOME SELECTED COMMODITIES FOR WHICH SPECIFICATION PRICE INDEXES ARE COMPILED. THE VOLUME OF TRADE IS DERIVED FROM TRADE VALUES BY DISCOUNTING THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES.

THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY COMMODITY GROUP FOR AUGUST 1987 AS COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986 ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 1.

AS CAN BE SEEN FROM TABLE 1, PRICES OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF MOST COMMODITY GROUPS INCREASED IN AUGUST 1987 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986. THESE INCLUDED METAL ORES AND SCRAP (+9 PER CENT); TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD (+7 PER CENT); CLOTHING (+7 PER CENT); TEXTILE FABRICS (+7 PER CENT); TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR ARTICLES (+6 PER CENT); RADIOS OF ALL KINDS (+6 PER CENT); FOOTWEAR (+5 PER CENT); TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED ARTICLES (+4 PER CENT); METAL MANUFACTURES (+3 PER CENT) AS WELL AS DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES (+2 PER CENT). HOWEVER, A DECREASE IN DOMESTIC EXPORT PRICES WAS RECORDED IN WATCHES AND CLOCKS (-1 PER CENT). THE PRICES OF ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS REMAINED ALMOST UNCHANGED.

THE DOMESTIC EXPORT VOLUME OF MOST COMMODITY GROUPS INCREASED IN AUGUST 1987 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986, INCLUDING METAL ORES AND

SCRAP (+112 PER CENT); TEXTILE FABRICS (+33 PER CENT); TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD (+29 PER CENT); ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS (+28 PER CENT); FOOTWEAR (+24 PER CENT); CLOTHING (+21 PER CENT); METAL MANUFACTURES (+20 PER CENT); WATCHES AND CLOCKS (+18 PER CENT); TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED ARTICLES (+4 PER CENT) AS WELL AS DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES (+1 PER CENT). HOWEVER, DECREASES IN DOMESTIC EXPORT VOLUME WERE RECORDED IN TRAVEL GOODS, HANDAGS AND SIMILAR ARTICLES (-1 PER CENT) AS WELL AS RADIOS OF ALL KINDS (-1 PER

CENT) .

/THE C RANGES.......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 198?

THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF IMPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY FOR AUGUST 1987 AS COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986 ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 2.

AS PRESENTED IN TABLE 2, IMPORT PRICES OF ALL END-USE CATEGORIES ROSE IN AUGUST 1987 AS COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986, RANGING FROM ONE PER CENT FOR CONSUMER GOODS TO 30 PER CENT FOR FUELS, WHICH WAS PARTLY ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE RELATIVELY LOW IMPORT PRICES OF FUELS IN AUGUST 1986.

IMPORTED FOODSTUFFS INCREASED BY EIGHT PER CENT IN VOLUME TERMS IN AUGUST 1987 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986. STGNTGICANT GROWTH WAS RECORDED IN SUGAR; FISH AND FISH PREPARATIONS AS WELL AS TEA AND COFFEE. HOWEVER, DECREASES IN IMPORT VOLUME WERE REGISTERED FOR WHEAT AND FLOUR; VEGETABLES AS WELL AS LIVE POULTRY.

OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THE IMPORT VOLUME OF CONSUMER GOODS INCREASED BY 39 PER CENT. THE COMMODITIES WITH MORE SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES INCLUDED FOOTWEAR; HOUSEHOLD TYPE ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES; MISCELLANEOUS MADE-UPS ARTICLES OF TEXTILE MATERIALS AS WELL AS ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES.

THE IMPORT VOLUME OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES ROSE BY 31 PER CENT IN AUGUST 1987 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986. THE MAJOR INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN RAW COTTON; WOOD, LUMBER AND CORK; MAN-MADE FIBRES; WOOL AND OTHER ANIMAL HAIR AS WELL AS CRUDE ANIMAL AND VEGETABLE MATERIALS.

IMPORTS OF FUELS DECREASED BY 14 PER CENT IN VOLUME TERMS IN AUGUST 1987 AS COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986.

FOR THE CAPITAL GOODS CATEGORY, THE IMPORT VOLUME INCREASED BY 43 PER CENT IN AUGUST 1987 WHEN COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986. THERE WERE SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES IN TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT; INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY OTHER THAN TEXTILE AND ELECTRICAL MACHINERY; OFFICE MACHINES AS WELL AS TEXTILE MACHINERY.

THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY FOR AUGUST 1987 AS COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986 ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 3.

AS DEPICTED IN TABLE 3, THE RE-EXPORT VOLUME OF MOST END-USE CATEGORIES INCREASED IN AUGUST 1987 WHEN COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1986, RANGING FROM 13 PER CENT FOR FOODSTUFFS TO 67 PER CENT FOR CAPITAL GOODS. HOWEVER, THE VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS OF FUELS DECREASED BY 47 PER CENT.

FURTHER DETAILS ARE CONTAINED IN THE AUGUST 1987 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG TRADE INDEX NUMBERS" WHICH WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AROUND NOVEMBER 12 AT $2.50 PER COPY. ENQUIRIES REGARDING REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION TO THIS REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, HONG KONG (TELEPHONE: 5-8428802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE INDEXES TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (5-8234918).

/TABLE 1: ......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 198?

COMMODITY GROUP

TABLE 1: INCREASES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY COMMODITY GROUP.

COMPARING JAN-AUG 1987 COMPARING AUG. 1987

WITH JAN-AUG 1986 WITH AUG. 1986

UNIT UNIT

VALUE VALUE VOLUME VALUE VALUE VOLUME

% % % % % %

CLOTHING 29 8 20 30 7 21

TEXTILE FABRICS 65 5 57 42 7 33

TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD 52 5 45 39 7 29

TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED ARTICLES 8 5 3 8 4 4

RADIOS OF ALL KINDS 27 2 25 5 6 -1

ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS 8 -2 It 28 ♦ 28

FOOTWEAR 21 3 17 31 5 24

METAL MANUFACTURES 27 2 25 24 3 20

METAL ORES AND SCRAP 55 1 53 131 9 1 1.2

WATCHES AND CLOCKS 17 I 16 17 -1 18

TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR ARTICLES 4 4 ♦ 5 6 -1

DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES 22 4 17 3 2 1

ALL COMMODITIES 31 3 27 25 3 22

NOTES FOR TABLES 1 TO 3: ♦ INSIGNIFICANT, PERCENTAGE CHANGES I .E. ARE LESS THAN CALCULATED 0.5 PER CENT FROM TRADE INDEXES TAKEN TO

MORE DECIMAL PLACES THAN THOSE TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE ’’HONG KONG

TRADE INDEX NUMBERS”. THEY MAY THEREFORE DIFFER FROM THE PERCENTAGE

CHANGES TO BE COMPUTED FROM THE PUBLISHED FIGURES

/TABLE 2: .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 198?

TABLE 2: INCREASES IN IMPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY

COMPARING JAN-AUG 1987 WITH JAN-AUG 1986 COMPARING AUG WITH AUG. . 1987 1986

ENQ-USE CATEGORY VALUE % UNIT VALUE % VOLUME % VALUE % UNIT VALUE % VOLUME %

FOODSTUFFS 12 1 10 10 2 8

CONSUMER GOODS 44 4 38 41 1 39

RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES 42 3 38 36 4 31

FUELS -2 -4 2 12 30 -14

CAPITAL GOODS 44 7 35 46 2 43

ALL COMMODITIES 39 4 34 36 3 32

TABLE 3: INCREASES IN RE -EXPORTS BY END- USE CATEGORY

COMPARING JAN-AUG 1987 WITH JAN-AUG 1986 COMPARING AUG. 1987 WITH AUG. 1986

END-USE CATEGORY VALUE % UNIT VALUE % VOLUME % VALUE % UNIT VALUE % VOLUME %

FOODSTUFFS 17 -1 19 11 -2 13

CONSUMER GOODS 61 2 58 48 2 45

RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES 51 2 47 61 5 54

FUELS 4 6 -1 -34 25 -47

CAPITAL GOODS 44 * 44 61 -4 67

ALL COMMODITIES 52 2 49 52 2 49

-----0-----

/5........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 5 -

REVISED FILM CENSORSHIP BILL PUBLISHED ♦ ♦ * ♦ ♦

' A REVISED FILM CENSORSHIP BILL, WHICH SETS OUT THE PRINCIPLES FOR THE CENSORSHIP 6f FILMS AND PROVIDES FOR A THREE TIER CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM, WAS PUBLISHED TODAY (FRIDAY) FOR PUBLIC INFORMATION AND COMMENT.

THE BILL, A SUBSTANTIALLY REVISED VERSION OF THE ONE PUBLISHED FOR INFORMATION AND COMMENT ON APRIL 3, TAKES INTO ACCOUNT COMMENTS FROM THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AD HOC GROUP ON FILM CLASSIFICATION AND CENSORSHIP, REPRESENTATIVES OF THE FILM INDUSTRY, DISTRICT BOARDS AND OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES.

THE BILL CONTINUES TO PROVIDE FOR THE CENSORSHIP OF FILMS ON MORAL AND SOCIAL GROUNDS. IT ALSO SEEKS TO RETAIN CENSORSHIP ON GROUNDS OF MAINTAINING GOOD RELATIONS WITH OTHER TERRITORIES.

THE CENSORSHIP CRITERIA HAVF, HOWEVER, BEEN REVISED TO SEPARATE THE THREE MAIN PRINCIPLES, THAT IS, MORAL, SOCIAL AND GOOD RELATIONS, FROM OTHER FACTORS WHICH ARE TO BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT WHEN CONSIDERING THE MAIN PRINCIPLES.

A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THIS WOULD ENABLE THE FILM INDUSTRY TO HAVE A CLEARER UNDERSTANDING OF THE CENSORSHIP CRITERIA AND ENSURE CONSISTENCY IN THE WORK OF THE CENSORS.

AS REGARDS THE POWER TO CENSOR FILMS ON GROUNDS OF GOOD RELATIONS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE FIRST ROUND OF CONSULTATIONS INDICATED GENERAL PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF, AND SUPPORT FOR, THE NEED TO RETAIN SUCH A PROVISION. IN VIEW OF THE CONCERNS EXPRESSED BY SOME MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, THIS PROVISION HAS BEEN TIGHTENED.

UNDER THE NEW BILL, THE EXISTING REQUIREMENT OF "DAMAGE GOOD RELATIONS WITH OTHER TERRITORIES" HAS BEEN QUALIFIED TO THE EXTENT THAT A CENSOR MAY ONLY DISAPPROVE A FILM UNDER THIS CRITERION IF HE IS SATISFIED THAT ITS EXHIBITION IS LIKELY TO CAUSE "SERIOUS DAMAGE" TO HONG KONG’S RELATIONS WITH OTHER TERRITORIES.

THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THIS QUALIFICATION WOULD ENSURE THAT FILMS COULD ONLY BE BANNED ON THIS GROUND IN CLEARLY ESTABLISHED CIRCUMSTANCES.

ANOTHER IMPORTANT CHANGE INTRODUCED IN THE NEW BILL IS THE TREATMENT OF FILM ADVERTISING MATERIAL. WHILE THE SUBMISSION OF ADVERTISING MATERIAL TO THE AUTHORITY WILL CONTINUE TO BE MANDATORY, A DEGREE OF SELF-REGULATION BY THE INDUSTRY HAS BEEN INTRODUCED.

IN FUTURE, WHERE THE PRODUCER/DISTR IBUTOR IS CONFIDENT THAT THE MATERIAL IS CONSISTENT WITH THE CENSORSHIP CRITERIA, HE WILL HAVE THE OPTION OF INDICATING -THAT AN EXAMINATION BY THE AUTHORITY IS NOT REQUIRED.

/IN MARGINAL........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

IN MARGINAL CASES OR IN CASES WHERE THEY ARE NOT SIRE, THEY MAY REQUEST THE AUTHORITY TO EXAMINE AND APPROVE TH! MATERIAL BEFOREHAND.

THROUGHOUT THE BILL, THE PROCEDURAL ASPECTS OF FILM CENSORSHIP AND,THE REVIEW PROCESS HAVE BEEN STREAMLINED. THESE IMPROVEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE LARGELY AS A RESULT OF REPRESENTATIONS FROM THE FILM INDUSTRY AND ARE IMPORTANT TO THEIR EFFICIENT OPERATION.

BECAUSE OF THE LARGE NUMBER OF CHANGES INTRODUCED AS A RESULT OF THE FIRST CONSULTATION EXERCISE, MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS CAN WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION AT CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES OR THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AD HOC GROUP ON FILM CLASSIFICATION AND CENSORSHIP IN JACKSON ROAD. THEY HAVE UNTIL DECEMBER 4, 1987 TO SUBMIT THEIR VIEWS.

AT THE END OF THIS SECOND CONSULTATION PERIOD, THE BILL WILL BE RE-SUBMITTED TO THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL WITH THE RECOMMENDATION THAT IT BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL FOR ENACTMENT WITHIN THE CURRENT LEGISLATIVE SESSION.

--------0 ---------

CONSULTANT ENGAGED FOR AIRPORT CAPACITY STUDY

*****

THE GOVERNMENT HAS ENGAGED A CONSULTANT TO STUDY HONG KONG’S AIR TRANSPORT REQUIREMENTS AND EXAMINE THE CAPACITY AND POTENTIAL OF THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.

THE DIRECTOR OF CIVIL AVIATION, MR TREVOR THORPE, HAS SIGNED A $12-MILLION CONTRACT WITH THE CONSULTANCY FIRM, RMP ENCON LTD, A HONG KONG SUBSIDIARY OF THE AMERICAN RALPH M. PARSONS COMPANY.

THE CONSULTANTS WILL PRODUCE A FORECAST OF HONG KONG’S AIR TRAFFIC DEMAND UPTO 2010, AND CONDUCT A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY TO DEFINE THE AIRPORT’S ULTIMATE CAPACITY AND EXPLORE METHODS OF MEETING THE FORECAST DEMAND.

THEY WILL ALSO BE LOOKING INTO RELATED ISSUES SUCH AS GROUND ACCESS TO THE AIRPORT, ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS, SAFETY AND AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL.

THE CONSULTANCY WILL BE SUPERVISED BY THE NEWLY-ESTABLISHED AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STUDIES DIVISION OF THE CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT, WHO WILL ALSO MANAGE A SERIES OF FORTHCOMING CONSULTANCY STUDIES INVOLVING ALTERNATIVE REPLACEMENT AIRPORT SITES.

/THE ASSISTANT .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STUDIES) OF CIVIL AVIATION, MR TREVOR OLIVER, SAID THAT THE AIRPORT CAPACITY STUDY WAS THE FIRST STEP OF A BROAD GOVERNMENT EFFORT TO DETERMINE THE NEED FOR AND PROPER TIMING OF AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT. f

"THE STUDY WILL GIVE THE GOVERNMENT A CLEARER PICTURE OF THE TREND OF GROWTH IN TRAFFIC DEMAND, AND PROVIDE USEFUL DATA WHICH THE GOVERNMENT CAN REFER TO FOR CONSIDERATION ON WHEN HONG KONG NEEDS A NEW AIRPORT," HE SAID.

IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE CONSULTANTS WILL TAKE ABOUT 11 MONTHS TO COMPLETE THE WORK, FOLLOWING WHICH A FINAL REPORT TOGETHER WITH THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE DIRECTOR OF CIVIL AVIATION WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE GOVERNMENT.

-----o------

APPLICATION PROCEDURE FOR TV RELAY

LICENCES SIMPLIFIED

THE PROCEDURE TO ALLOW SMALL COMMUNITIES IN THE REMOTE AREAS OF HONG KONG TO APPLY FOR A LICENCE TO INSTALL THEIR OWN TELEVISION RELAY STATIONS TO IMPROVE TELEVISION RECEPTION HAS BEEN SIMPLIFIED.

THE TELECOMMUNICATION (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS 1987 GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY) AMEND THE BROADCAST RADIO RELAY STATION LICENCE TO PERMIT THESE COMMUNITIES TO APPLY TO THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY THAT IS, THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, FOR A LICENCE TO INSTALL RELAY STATIONS TO IMPROVE RECEPTION OF TELEVISION PROGRAMMES.

"THE REGULATIONS FOLLOW A RECOMMENDATION BY THE BROADCASTING REVIEW BOARD THAT SMALL COMMUNITIES BE ALLOWED TO INSTALL THEIR OWN TELEVISION RELAY STATIONS AS A FURTHER MEASURE TO IMPROVE TELEVISION RECEPTION," A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.

THE GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT UNDER THE TELEVISION ORDINANCE, TELEVISION LICENSEES ARE REQUIRED TO BROADCAST IN SUCH A MANNER AS TO ENABLE TRANSMISSION TO BE RECEIVED TO THE SATISFACTION OF THE BROADCASTING AUTHORITY IN ALL PARTS OF HONG KONG.

AT PRESENT, IN ANY AREA OF A RADIUS OF THREE KILOMETRES WHICH HAS A POPULATION OF 6,000 OR ABOVE, LICENSEES MUST ENSURE THAT THE RESIDENTS HAVE TELEVISION RECEPTION TO A SPECIFIED STANDARD. AS FROM JANUARY 1, 1988, THIS CRITERION WILL BE TIGHTENED SUCH THAT IN ANY AREA OF A RADIUS OF THREE KILOMETRES WHICH HAS A POPULATION OF ONLY 2,000 OR ABOVE, THE LICENSEES MUST ENSURE RECEPTION TO THE SPECIFIED STANDARD. THERE ARE, HOWEVER, REMOTE COMMUNITIES WHICH FALL OUTSIDE THIS CRITERION WHERE RECEPTION CONTINUES TO BE UNSATISFACTORY.

/one village .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

8 -

one Village in the new territories has already INSTALL A RELAY STATION TO RECEIVE TELEVISION PROGRAMMES MAIN TRANSMITTER STATION AND TO RE-BROADCAST THEM 10 IIS COyERAGE AREA USING A DIFFERENT SET OF FREQUENCIES.

APPLIED FROM

THE

INTENDED

"IT IS UNDERSTOOD THAT OTHER SMALL TERRITORIES ALSO CONTEMPLATE THIS SOLUTION,

COMMUNITIES IN

THE NEW

THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

THE ANNUAL FEE FOR THE LICENCE IS $680.

--------o ----------

CHIEF SECRETARY TO VISIT CSD FAIR

*****

THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, WILL VISIT THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT’S ANNUAL AUTUMN FAIR WHICH WILL BE HELD IN STANLEY TOMORROW (SATURDAY).

THE FAIR WILL BE HELD AT THE FOOTBALL FIELD NEXT TO STANLEY PRISON, OPENING AT 12 NOON AND CONTINUING TO 5 PM. IT WILL BE OFFICIALLY OPENED BY MRS FORD. ADMISSION IS FREE.

THERE WILL BE A FULL PROGRAMME OF ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE PUBLIC AND, IN ADDITION, A WIDE VARIETY OF PRODUCTS MADE BY INMATES OF PENAL INSTITUTIONS WILL BE ON SALE AT SOME 30 STALLS.

THESE ITEMS RANGE FROM STUFFED TOYS AND HANDICRAFT ITEMS TO RATTAN AND WOODEN FURNITURE. ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO VARIOUS CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS AND THE DEPARTMENT’S WELFARE FUND.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE AUTUMN FAIR OPENING CEREMONY AT NOON TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE FOOTBALL FIELD NEXT TO STANLEY PRISON. PRESS TRANSPORT WILL BE PROVIDED. PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT THE DEPARTMENT S PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT AT 23/F., WAN CHAI TOWER I, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, AT 10.45 AM.

--------o ----------

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 9 -

HONG KONG MAINTAINS GOOD LABOUR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS ******

GOOD LABOUR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS COULD ENHANCE HONG KONG'S ECONOMIC PROSPERITY AND SOCIAL STABILITY, AN ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR YIU YAN-NANG, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY), c

ADDRESSING AN EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION BENEFIT SCHEME SEMINAR, JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE CHINESE MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG AND THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, MR YIU SAID HONG KONG’S GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCTS IN 1986 WERE UP BY 8.7 PER CENT AND THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY 19 PER CENT OVER 1985.

THE NUMBER OF STRIKES REPORTED LAST YEAR WAS NINE AND THE NUMBER OF WORKING DAYS LOST PER 1,000 EMPLOYEES AS A RESULT OF TRADE DISPUTES AT THE SAME PERIOD WAS 2.1 WHICH WAS SUBSTANTIALLY BELOW THE AVERAGE IN OTHER INDUSTRIALISED COUNTRIES.

"THESE FIGURES SHOW POSITIVE SIGNS OF AN IMPROVED RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES IN HONG KONG," HE SAID.

"BUT STABLE LABOUR RELATIONS COULD ONLY ACHIEVE WHEN EMPLOYEES AND EMPLOYERS HAD A CHANCE TO SHARE IN THE PROSPERITY OF HONG KONG’S ECONOMY.

"IN OTHER WORDS, EMPLOYERS SHOULD ATTACH GREATER IMPORTANCE TO WORKERS’ WELFARE BENEFITS."

MR YIU NOTED THAT MORE AND MORE EMPLOYERS HAD REALISED THE IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT BENEFIT SCHEMES.

THIS IS EVIDENT IN THE FACT THAT 5,169 RETIREMENT SCHEMES WERE APPROVED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF INLAND REVENUE AS AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR, HE SAID.

------o-------

CALL TO BETTER UTILISE SKILLS, TALENTS OF LABOUR FORCE

*****

HONG KONG’S PRESENT ECONOMIC SUCCESS OWES MUCH TO THE INGENUITY AND RESOURCEFULNESS OF ITS MANUFACTURERS AND HIGHLY EFFICIENT SERVICE SECTOR, THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, MR HARNAM GREWAL, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).

BUT THE MAINSTAY OF ITS PROSPERITY WAS STILL THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WHOSE ABILITY, ADAPTABILITY AND HARDWORK WAS PRIMARILY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE TERRITORY’S ECONOMIC ACHIEVEMENT, HE ADDED.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 16TH ANNUAL CAREERS EXHIBITION HELD AT THE SHATIN TOWN HALL TODAY, MR GREWAL SAID HONG KONG WAS INDEED FORTUNATE TO HAVE SUCH A WORKFORCE.

/"Di TIMES ......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 198?

"IN TIMES OF RAPID ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND FULL EMPLOYMENT, THERE IS AN EVEN GREATER NEED TO BETTER UTILIZE THE SKILLS AND TALENTS OF OUR LABOUR FORCE," MR GREWAL SAID.

"THIS REQUIRES A CLOSE MATCHING OF THE SKILLS AND TALENTS OF OUR WORKFORCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF OUR EMPLOYERS.

"IN THIS RESPECT, YOUNG PEOPLE MUST ALSO BE MADE MORE AWARE OF THEIR POTENTIAL; AND,BY ACQUIRING CAREERS INFORMATION, DEVELOP GREATER UNDERSTANDING OF THE CHANGING OPPORTUNITIES FOR EMPLOYMENT."

THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE NOTED THAT ALTHOUGH A PROPER CHOICE OF CAREER WAS AN ISSUE OF FUNDAMENTAL IMPORTANCE TO AN INDIVIDUAL, A RIGHT DECISION WOULD ALSO BENEFIT THE COMMUNITY.

HE SAID THE CAREERS EXHIBITION SHOULD HELP INSPIRE YOUNG PEOPLE WHO WERE YET UNDECIDED ON THEIR FUTURE CAREER, OR THOSE WHO HAD SOMEHOW SET THEIR MINDS ON A LIMITED CHOICE, TO LOOK FURTHER AFIELD AND DISCOVER MORE ABOUT JOB OPPORTUNITIES. WHICH MIGHT MATCH THEIR RANGE OF INTERESTS.

MR GREWAL ALSO DISCLOSED THAT THE YOUTH EMPLOYMENT ADVISORY SERVICE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT PLANNED TO SET UP A FOURTH CAREERS INFORMATION CENTRE IN SHA TIN NEXT YEAR.

HE BELIEVED THAT THE NEW OFFICE WOULD FURTHER STRENGTHEN THE CAREERS SERVICE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN THIS FAST GROWING PART OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.

EARLIER IN HIS WELCOMING SPEECH, THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR TONY HAMMOND, TOLD THE GATHERING THAT 22 EXHIBITORS FROM THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR, THE MANUFACTURING AND THE SERVICE INDUSTRIES, PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AND THE GOVERNMENT TOOK PART IN THIS YEAR’S EXHIBITION.

HE PAID TRIBUTES TO ALL THOSE INVOLVED IN SETTING UP THE EXHIBITION, IN PARTICULAR THE REGIONAL COUNCIL FOR ITS GENEROUS SUPPORT OF THIS VENTURE.

ALSO OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY WAS THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG.

MR CHEUNG TOLD THE GATHERING THAT THE EVENT HAD BEEN GIVEN A FRESH APPEARANCE BY TAKING PLACE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE SHATIN TOWN HALL THIS YEAR.

HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT THE NEW VENUE WOULD ATTRACT MORE VISITORS FROM ALL OVER HONG KONG, PARTICULARLY FROM THE REGIONAL COUNCIL AREA.

THE EXHIBITION IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FROM 9.30 AM TO 6.30 PM DAILY AT THE SHATIN TOWN HALL UNTIL NOVEMBER 16.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH THIS EXHIBITION, LIVE CAREER SHOWS WILL BE STAGED OUTSIDE THE TOWN HALL ON NOVEMBER 7, 8, 14 AND 15 BY A NUMBER OF DISCIPLINARY FORCES AND AUXILIARY SERVICES.

--------o ----------

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

11 -

NEW AIRCRAFT FOR RHKAAF * * *

THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE WILL RECEIVE AN ADDED BOOST TO ITS SEARCH AND RESCUE CAPABILITY WITH THE ARRIVAL TOMORROW (SATURDAY) OF ITS LATEST FIXED WING AIRCRAFT, A BEECH SUPER KING AIR TWIN TURBO PROP.

THE AIRCRAFT IS BEING FERRIED TO HONG KONG BY THE CHIEF STAFF OFFICER, RHKAAF, SQUADRON LEADER JOHN SHAWCROSS, AND SENIOR FIXED WING PILOT, FLIGHT LIEUTENANT NIGEL ASHLEY. THEY ARE ACCOMPANIED BY FLIGHT SERGEANT MARTIN CHAN WHO IS SUPERVISING THE ENGINEERING SIDE OF THE LONG DELIVERY FLIGHT FROM WICHITA IN THE UNITED STATES.

THE AIRCRAFT IS EQUIPPED WITH THE LATEST STATE OF THE ART ELECTRONIC FLIGHT INFORMATION AND NAVIGATION SYSTEMS AND HAS DAY AND NIGHT SEARCH CAPABILITY, BEING FITTED WITH FORWARD LOOKING INFRARED (FLIR) NIGHT IMAGING UNIT.

BEING PRESSURISED, THE AIRCRAFT IS ABLE TO FLY TO THE SCENE OF A SEARCH AT HIGH LEVEL AND, EQUIPPED WITH TURBO PROPER ENGINES, AT A MUCH HIGHER SPEED THAN THE UNPRESSURISED PISTON-ENGINED AIRCRAFT WHICH CONSTITUTE THE PRESENT FIXED WING FLEET.

SIX PILOTS HAVE ALREADY UNDERGONE TRAINING COURSES IN THE UNITED STATES, AS HAVE MANY OF THE UNIT’S ENGINEERS WHO WILL BE TASKED WITH MAINTAINING THIS LATEST ADDITION TO THE FLEET TO THE USUAL HIGH STANDARDS WHICH HAVE ENABLED THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE TO PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE SEARCH AND RESCUE AVAILABILITY TO SHIPPING AND AIRCRAFT IN THE HONG KONG AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY.

THE FLIGHT FROM THE UNITED STATES HAS BEEN ROUTED VIA HAWAII, MIDWAY ISLAND, WAKE ISLAND, GUAM AND JAPAN.

A SECOND SUPER KING AIR HAS BEEN ORDERED FOR DELIVERY IN AUGUST 1988.

--------o ----------

ACCORD REACHED ON QUOTA LEVEL ADJUSTMENT

*****

THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF TRADE, MR JOSEPH WONG, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT HONG KONG HAS REACHED AN AGREEMENT WITH THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITY ON ADJUSTMENTS TO THE QUOTA LEVELS OF 16 CATEGORIES RESTRAINED UNDER THE CURRENT HONG KONG/EEC BILATERAL TEXTILES AGREEMENT ARISING FROM THE INTRODUCTION OF THE HARMONIZED COMMODITY DESCRIPTION AND CODING SYSTEM (HARMONIZED SYSTEM) IN 1988.

THE INTRODUCTION OF THE HARMONIZED SYSTEM HAD BEEN ANTICIPATED TN THE NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE CURRENT BILATERAL AGREEMENT LAST YEAR.

/AS A........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 12 -

AS A RESULT, THERE WERE SUBSTANTIAL CHANGES TO THE CLASSIFICATION AND QUOTA LEVELS OF VARIOUS CATEGORIES.

HOWEVER, ONE MAJOR PROBLEM REMAINED IN RESPECT OF SUITS: UNDER THE CURRENT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM, SUITS INCLUDE COMBINATIONS OF COMPONENT GARMENTS MADE UP OF DIFFERENT RUT CO-ORDINATED FABRICS; UNDER THE HARMONIZED SYSTEM, SUITS MUST COMPRISE COMPONENT GARMENTS MADE UP OF IDENTICAL FABRIC.

"THE QUOTA ADJUSTMENTS, WHICH WILL APPLY TO THE REMAINING PERIOD OF’ THE AGREEMENT (THAT IS, 1988-91) RESOLVE THE PROBLEM OF CO-ORDINATE SUITS BY EFFECTIVELY TRANSFERRING A PROPORTION OF QUOTA FROM THE SUIT CATEGORIES TO THE COMPONENT GARMENT CATEGORIES," MR WONG SAID.

THE AGREEMENT WAS REACHED AFTER TWO ROUNDS OF CONSULTATIONS IN BRUSSELS.

APART FROM THE THREE SUIT CATEGORIES, 16, 29 AND 74, THE MAJOR COMPONENT GARMENT CATEGORIES AFFECTED BY THE QUOTA ADJUSTMENT INCLUDE CATEGORIES 5 (PULLOVERS), 21 (BLOUSONS), 6A (TROUSERS) AND 21 (SKIRTS).

"EXPORTERS WHO USED SUIT QUOTA IN 1987 TO EXPORT CO-ORDINATE SUITS TO THE COMMUNITY WOULD BE OFFERED QUOTA IN THE RELEVANT COMPONENT GARMENT CATEGORIES IN THE ALLOCATION FOR 1988," MR WONG SAID.

THE TRADE DEPARTMENT WOULD BE MAKING AN ANNOUNCEMENT TO THE TRADE SHORTLY ON THE DETAILS OF THE CHANGE IN CLASSIFICATION AND ON THE QUOTA ALLOCATION PROCEDURES.

-----o------

NO-SMOKING AREAS WILL PROTECT PUBLIC HEALTH

*****

NO-SMOKING AREAS WILL HELP TO PROTECT THE HEALTH OF NON-SMOKING PEOPLE IN HONG KONG, A MEMBER OF THE HONG KONG COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH, MR JOB YOUNG, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).

HE STRESSED THAT NON-SMOKERS WERE IN THE MAJORITY IN THE COMMUNITY, WITH FEWER THAN ONE IN FIVE ADULTS BEING CIGARETTE SMOKERS.

SPEAKING AT THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT ANTI-SMOKING DAY HELD AT THE 01 MAN ESTATE CONCOURSE, MR YOUNG SAID SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE SHOWED THAT PASSIVE SMOKING WAS HARMFUL TO HEALTH.

"AS WITH ALL PUBLIC HEALTH DANGERS, GOVERNMENT AND EMPLOYERS HAVE A DUTY TO PROTECT THE HEALTH OF PASSIVE SMOKERS," HE SAID.

/"A WIFE........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 13 -

"A WIFE MAY DEVELOP LUNG CANCER FROM HER HUSBAND'S SMOKING EVEN IF SHE HAS NEVER SMOKED A CIGARETTE HERSELF, AND IF A WOMAN SMOKES DURING PREGNANCY IT CAN HARM HER FOETUS," HE SAID.

MR YOUNG SAID BREATHING OTHER PEOPLE'S SMOKE MIGHT CAUSE ANNOYANCE, AND THROAT, EYE AND NOSE IRRITATION, AND COULD MAKE A NON-SMOKER’S HAIR OR CLOTHES SMELL FOR SEVERAL HOURS. BUT, MORE RECENTLY, IT WAS REALISED THAT SMOKERS PRESENTED A HEALTH HAZARD TO NON-SMOKERS.

HE SAID CHEMICALS FROM TOBACCO SMOKE COULD BE MEASURED IN THE BLOOD OF NON-SMOKERS WHO HAD BEEN IN A SMOKE-FILLED ROOM.

MR YOUNG APPEALED TO CIGARETTE SMOKERS, FOR THE SAKE OF THEIR HEALTH, FAMILY AND FELLOW WORKERS, TO GIVE UP SMOKING.

IN SUPPORT OF THE GOVERNMENT’S ANTI-SMOKING CAMPAIGN, THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD SET UP A CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE IN JULY TO ORGANISE A SERIES OF PROGRAMMES TO SPREAD THE MESSAGE THAT "CIGARETTE SMOKING IS HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH".

THESE INCLUDED A SLOGAN DESIGN COMPETITION, A QUIZ COMPETITION AND TODAY’S ANTI-SMOKING DAY WHICH WAS FOLLOWED BY A PUBLICITY BUS TOUR OF THE DISTRICT.

AN ANTI-SMOKING EXHIBITION WAS ALSO STAGED AT THE VENUE AND WILL BE OPEN AT THE COMMERCIAL COMPLEX TOMORROW AND SUNDAY.

ALSO ATTENDING THE CEREMONY WERE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT OFFICER, MR ALEX FONG; DISTRICT BORD CHAIRMAN, MR WONG SIK-KONG; AND THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT ANTI-SMOKING CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR TANG PO-HONG.

--------0----------

$240,000 RAISED BY TUEN MUN FESTIVAL * * ♦ * t

A SUM OF $240,000 WAS RAISED BY THE 1987 TUEN MUN FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE FOR THE COMMUNITY CHEST, DEMONSTRATING LOCAL RESIDENTS’ CONCERN FOR THE UNDERPRIVILEGED.

THE MONEY CAME FROM VARIOUS SOURCES, AND INCLUDED $90,000 RAISED FROM SCHOOLS AND FROM TICKET SALES AT THE OPENING PERFORMANCE AT THE FESTIVAL.

DURING THE FESTIVAL, A FUND RAISING CAMPAIGN WAS HELD BETWEEN NOVEMBER 2 AND 4, BY MEANS OF A COMPETITION AMONG RESIDENTS IN THREE CATEGORIES FROM RESPEECTIVE VILLAGES, PRIVATE BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING (INCLUDING HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME.) THE FUND-RAISING CHAMPIONS WERE RESPECTIVELY SUN FUNG WAI, SIU PING COURT OF THE SIU HONG COURT, AND CHUN YUE LAU OF THF. SAM SING ESTATE.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 14 -

PRE-WAR BUILDING IN CENTRAL DECLARED DANGEROUS *****

A FOUR-STOREY PRE-WAR BUILDING AT 71 WING LOK STREET IN CENTRAL DISTRICT WAS TODAY (FRIDAY) DECLARED BY THE BUILDING AUTHORITY TO BE IN A DANGEROUS CONDITION AND IT SHOULD BE DEMOLISHED.

THE PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT BUILDING SURVEYOR, MR ANTHONY LAWRENCE, SAID THE BUILDING, WITH TIMBER FLOORS AND STAIRCASE AND REINFORCED CONCRETE ROOF, BALCONIES AND KITCHENS ON BRICK LOAD-BEARING WALLS, WAS IN AN ADVANCED STATE OF DELAPIDAT1ON.

HE SAID THE BUILDING HAD BEEN UNDER PERIODICAL SURVEILLANCE SINCE 1970, AND NUMEROUS VERTICAL CRACKS WERE VISIBLE ALONG OR NEAR THE WINDOW OPENINGS OF THE FLANK WALL AND ALONG THE DOOR OPENINGS OF THE REAR MAIN WALL.

"THESE CRACKS HAVE OPENED UP RECENTLY, INDICATING UNARRESTED MOVEMENT OF THE FLANK WALL OF THE BUILDING TOWARDS MAN WA LANE. THE BALCONIES IN FRONT ARE ALSO FOUND TO BE VERY DETERIORATED. THE REINFORCED CONCRETE ELEMENTS ARE BADLY SPALLED, EXPOSING VERY CORRODED STEEL BARS. THERE ARE ALSO SIGNS OF OUTWARD MOVEMENT OF THE BALCONIES.

"IT IS CONSIDERED THAT THERE IS A RISK OF COLLAPSE OF THE FLANK WALL AND THE BALCONIES. IT IS, THEREFORE, NECESSARY TO CLOSE AND DEMOLISH THIS BUILDING," MR LAWRENCE ADDED.

A NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER IN HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON JANUARY 5 NEXT YEAR WAS POSTED ON THE BUILDING TODAY, (FRIDAY).

-----0-----

FIREMEN TO DEMONSTRATE AT CAREERS EXHIBITION ♦ ♦ ♦

FIREMEN WILL PUT UP A SERIES OF DEMONSTRATIONS AT THE '87 CAREERS EXHIBITION ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TN SHA TIN TOWN HALL ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8).

THE DEMONSTRATIONS, WHICH WILL BE HELD FROM 10 AM TO 5 PM, WILL INCLUDE JUMPS ONTO AN RESCUE CUSHION, RESCUE OF INJURED PEOPLE FROM HEIGHT AND INJURED PEOPLE TRAPPED UNDER A CAR, AND THE USE OF VARIOUS TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.

AN ASSORTMENT OF FIRE APPLIANCES INCLUDING A TURNABLE LADDER, A HYDRAULIC PLATFORM, AN AMBULANCE, AN AMBULANCE MOTORCYCLE, A MOBILE CASUALTY TREATMENT CENTRE AND A MOBILE COMMAND UNIT WILL BE DISPLAYED.

/THERE WILL .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1?87

- 15 -

THERE WILL ALSO BE AN EXHIBITION FEATURING PHOTOGRAPHS ON THE HISTORY OF THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, AND SOME OF THE WORST FIRES IN THE PAST.

A TEMPORARY RECRUITMENT CENTRE WILL BE PUT UP TO PROVIDE TRY-OUT OF MEASUREMENT, EYE-SIGHT AND STRENGTH TESTS FOR SPECTATORS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE FIREMEN DEMONSTRATION TO BE STAGED AT SHA TIN TOWN HALL ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8) BETWEEN 10 AM AND 5 PM.

-----o------

TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO MEET

* * * »

THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE WILL MEET TOMORROW (SATURDAY) TO DISCUSS AN APPLICATION BY THE CHINA MOTOR BUS COMPANY LTD TO EXTEND ITS FRANCHISE.

IN ADDITION, THE COMMITTEE WILL CONSIDER AN APPLICATION BY THE HONGKONG AND YAUMATI FERRY COMPANY LTD FOR AN INCREASE IN FARES.

ALSO ON THE AGENDA IS THE PROPOSED APPROACH AND TIMETABLE FOR. THE REVIEW OF THE ROLE AND SEATING CAPACITY OF PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES AND THE INTRODUCTION OF MI DI BUS SERVICE.

THE MEETING WILL BE HELD AT GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT STARTING AT 9.30 AM.

--------0----------

HOME SAFETY ATTENTION TURNS TO THE ELDERLY * ♦ * *

A FIVE-MINUTE PROGRAMME WILL BE TELEVISED TOMORROW (SATURDAY) EVENING TO BRING HOME THE MESSAGE THAT CARING FOR THE ELDERLY GOES A LONG WAY TOWARDS REDUCING ACCIDENTS IN THE HOME.

THE PROGRAMME IS PART OF THE "PUBLIC EDUCATION" SERIES JOINTLY PRODUCED BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG AND THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

/the programme .......

NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 16 -

THE PROGRAMME CAN BE VIEWED AT 9.50 PM ON TVB JADE TOMORROW AND WILL BE REPEATED NEXT SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) ON ATV GOLD AT 7.58 PM.

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE, MR GEORGE YUEN, SAID: "SO FAR THIS YEAR, THE DEATH TOLL FROM HOME ACCIDENTS HAS REACHED 104, AND MORE THAN HALF OF THE VICTIMS WERE AGED 60 AND OVER.

"OUT OF THE 61 FATALITIES INVOLVING THE ELDERLY, 50 PER CENT RESULTED FROM FALLS, SUCH AS FALLING FROM A HEIGHT, STAIRCASES, OR IN THE DARK, BECAUSE OF POOR EYESIGHT."

AN API (ANNOUNCEMENT IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST) ON CARING FOR THE ELDERLY HAS BEEN SCREENED ON TELEVISION SINCE LAST MONTH.

MR YUEN ALSO GAVE A REMINDER THAT A HOME SAFETY EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD THIS SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8) IN LUNG HANG ESTATE IN SHA TIN.

THE EXHIBITION WILL BE STAGED AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE SHOPPING ARCADE ON THE PODIUM AND WILL BE OPEN FROM 10 AM TO 6 PM.

HOME SAFETY BOOKLETS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED FREE AT THE VENUE.

--------o----------

SOUTHERN DISTRICT HOLDING ROAD SAFETY DAY

*****

A CARNIVAL, ENTITLED "SOUTHERN DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY DAY", WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8) FROM 2 PM TO 5 PM AT THE WONG CHUK HANG HARD-SURFACED SOCCER PITCH TO SPREAD THE ROAD SAFETY MESSAGE AMONG RESIDENTS.

AS A HIGHLIGHT OF THE DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN, THE CARNVIAL WILL FEATURE A ROAD SAFETY TOWN, A ROAD SAFETY BUS, AND PERFORMANCES BY POPULAR ARTISTS, ACROBATIC CYCLING AND LION DANCES.

THERE WILL ALSO BE GAMES STALLS FOR WHICH A LIMITED NUMBER OF FREE GAMES TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE VENUE ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS.

FOR THE BENEFIT OF DISTRICT RESIDENTS, FREE SHUTTLE BUS SERVICES WILL BE PROVIDED BY THE CHINA MOTOR BUS CO. LTD. TO AND FROM THE VENUE FROM 1 PM TILL 5.30 PM.

THE SHUTTLE BUSES, WHICH WILL CARRY BIG SOUTHERN DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY DAY BANNERS, WILL PLY BETWEEN BUS TERMINI AT WAH FU (SOUTH) (NEAR WAH TAI HOUSE), ABERDEEN AND APLEICHAU ESTATE AND THE VENUE, LEAVING AT REGULAR INTERVALS.

/A CEREMONY .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

A CEREMONY TO MARK THE OPENING OF THE ROAD SAFETY DAY WILL BE HELD AT 2 PM. OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR MAN HON-MING; ACTING SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MISS OLIVIA NIP; POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER (WESTERN), MR E.J. STEVENSON; SENIOR STAFF OFFICER/TRAFFIC/HK ISLAND, MR LIONEL LAM; REGIONAL COMMANDER (KOWLOON), ROAD SAFETY PATROL, MR STEVE H.W. LAU, AND COMPANY SECRETARY OF CHINA MOTOR BUS, MR WONG WING-KEUNG.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE SOUTHERN

DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY DAY TO BE HELD AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY, AND THE CARNIVAL THAT FOLLOWS,

- - - - 0 ----------

CONCERTS MARK MUSIC OFFICE ANNIVERSARY

*****

THE MUSIC OFFICE IS CELEBRATING ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR, AND ONE OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CELEBRATION PROGRAMME WILL BE THE YOUTH CHINESE MUSIC WEEK FROM NOVEMBER 14 TO 22.

A MUSIC OFFICE SPOKESMAN SAID ALL ACTIVITIES CELEBRATING THE OCCASION WOULD BE DESIGNED TO MAXIMISE PARTICIPATION BY THE OFFICE’S TRAINEES, AMATEUR MUSIC GROUPS, AS WELL AS MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, ALL WITH AN AIM TO INCREASE PUBLIC AWARENESS AND INTEREST IN CHINESE MUSIC. ' ’

THREE GUEST MUSICIANS FROM CHINA - MR AN ZHISHUN (PERCUSSION), MR XIAO BAIYONG (ER-HU) AND MS FAN SHENGE (ZHENG) - HAVE ALSO BEEN INVITED TO GIVE DEMONSTRATION PERFORMANCES AND TO CONDUCT MASTERCLASSES AT VARIOUS MUSIC CENTRES OF THE MUSIC OFFICE IN HONG KONG, KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES.

THE CHINESE MUSIC WEEK WILL FORMALLY START WITH AN OPENING CONCERT TO BE HELD AT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM NEXT SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) FEATURING PERFORMANCES BY SOME 500 MEMBERS FROM THE MUSIC OFFICE CHINESE ORCHESTRAS. THE CONCERT WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM.

PIECES ON THE PROGRAMME INCLUDE "GREETINGS", "REJOICE", "GENERAL’S COMMAND", "FLYING DRAGON AND LEAPING TIGER", "AMBUSH" AND UNISON PERFORMANCES WITH DIFFERENT MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS SUCH AS PI-PA, ER-HU AND PERCUSSION.

A JING YING CONCERT, WILL BE STAGED AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE ON NOVEMBER 18.

/ANOTHER CONCERT,

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 198?

- 18 -

ANOTHER CONCERT, AN EVENING OF CHINESE FOLK MUSIC AND OPERATIC MUSIC, WILL BE HELD AT THE AUDITORIUM, SHA TIN TOWN HALL, ON NOVEMBER 20.

BOTH CONCERTS WILL BE FREE.

IN SUPPORT OF THE OFFICE’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS, THE URBAN COUNCIL WILL ORGANISE A FREE STUDENT CONCERT TO BE PERFORMED BY THE HONG KONG CHINESE ORCHESTRA ON NOVEMBER 19 AT 3 PM AT KO SHAN THEATRE AS PART OF THE WEEK’S PROGRAMMES.

THE SPOKESMAN EXPRESSED THE HOPE THAT THE WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES WOULD MEET THE NEEDS OF THE CHINESE MUSIC ENTHUSIASTS AND AT THE SAME TIME PROVIDE ENTERTAINMENT TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.

HE ALSO EXTENDED THANKS TO TWO MUSIC COMPANIES THAT HAD GIVEN GENEROUS SPONSORSHIP TOWARDS VARIOUS CELEBRATION ACTIVITIES.

TICKETS FOR THE CONCERTS ON NOVEMBER 14, 18 AND 20, AT $5 AND $10 EACH, ARE AVAILABLE AT URBTIX OUTLETS AT CITY HALL, QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM, SPACE MUSEUM, HONG KONG COLISEUM, NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE, TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL, SHA TIN TOWN HALL, TUEN MUN TOWN HALL AND TOM LEE MUSIC CO. LTD. (CAMERON LANE, MAN YEE BUILDING, TAIKOO SHING CITY PLAZA AND HENNESSY ROAD).

ENQUIRIES MAY BE MADE ON 0-4928127 AND 0-6065731.

-----o------

1981 PRIVATE CARS COME UNDER INSPECTION SCHEME

*****

PRIVATE CARS MANUFACTURED IN 1981 WHICH REQUIRED A NEW LICENCE COMMENCING ON OR AFTER APRIL 1 NEXT YEAR MUST PASS A ROADWORTHINESS TEST PRIOR TO LICENCE RENEWAL, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY).

"UNDER THE PRIVATE CAR INSPECTION SCHEME WHICH CAME INTO EFFECT ON JANUARY 2, 1986, ALL SIX-YEAR-OLD PRIVATE CARS MUST FIRST OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE OF ROADWORTHINESS FROM A GOVERNMENT-DESIGNATED CAR TESTING CENTRE BEFORE THEIR LICENCES CAN BE RENEWED," A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED.

"WITH THE APPROACH OF 1988, IT IS ONLY NATURAL THAT 1981 CARS SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE INSPECTION SCHEME," HE SAID.

THERE ARE 17 DESIGNATED CAR TESTING CENTRES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE HARBOUR AND APPOINTMENTS FOR INSPECTION MAY BE MADE FOUR MONTHS BEFORE THE EXPIRY DATE OF THE VEHICLE LICENCE.

/THE PARTS .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 19 -

THE PARTS INSPECTED INCLUDE: THE BRAKING AND STEERING SYSTEM, SUSPENSION, WHEELS AND TYRES, ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION, ELECTRICAL FITTINGS AND LIGHTING, BODYWORK AND GENERAL ITEMS SUCH AS NUMBER PLATES, WINDSCREEN WIPERS AND WASHERS AND SEAT BELTS.

OF THE 35,486 VEHICLES WHICH UNDERWENT THEIR FIRST INSPECTIONS UNDER THE SCHEME IN THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF THIS YEAR, ABOUT '67 PER CENT PASSED, COMPARED WITH A PASS RATE OF 50 PER CENT AMONG THE 28,936 FIRST INSPECTIONS IN 1986. A TOTAL OF 88,586 INSPECTIONS HAD BEEN CARRIED OUT UP TO SEPTEMBER.

THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT THE CERTIFICATE OF ROADWORTHINESS FOR ANY PRIVATE CAR WHICH HAS PASSED THE TEST MUST BE PRESENTED TO THE DEPARTMENT WITHIN FOUR MONTHS OF THE ISSUE DATE FOR RELICENSING A VEHICLE, OTHERWISE ITS VALIDITY WILL LAPSE.

THE FEE FOR A CAR INSPECTION IS $160 AND A RE-CHECK FEE OF $50 IS CHARGED WHEN DEFECTS FOUND IN THE ORIGINAL INSPECTION ARE REMEDIED AND EXAMINED WITHIN 14 DAYS. IN CASES OF SPECIFIED MINOR FAULTS, THE RE-CHECK IS FREE OF CHARGE.

SHOULD A CAR OWNER DISAGREE WITH THE RESULT OF A TEST, HE CAN APPEAL TO THE DEPARTMENT FOR A FRESH, INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION.

"TO AVOID UNNECESSARY INCONVENIENCE, CAR OWNERS SHOULD HAVE THEIR VEHICLES CHECKED AND REPAIRED BEFORE THE INSPECTION APPOINTMENT WITH CAR TESTING CENTRES," THE SPOKESMAN URGED.

ENQUIRIES MAY BE MADE ON 5-200933.

-----0-----

ID CARD REMINDER FOR MEN BORN IN 1963-64

♦ ♦ * * t

THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT REMINDED TODAY (FRIDAY) MEN BORN IN 1963 AND 1964 TO APPLY FOR NEW IDENTITY CARDS BEFORE NOVEMBER 29.

IT IS ESTIMATED THAT UP TO NOVEMBER 4, 59,756 MEN IN THIS AGE GROUP HAD APPLIED FOR NEW ID CARDS.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SAID: "THERE ARE ONLY THREE MORE WEEKS FOR MEN IN THIS GROUP TO RENEW THEIR CARDS BEFORE THIS PHASE CLOSES ON NOVEMBER 28.

"TO AVOID A LAST-MINUTE RUSH, MEN IN THIS AGE GROUP WHO HAVE NOT YET APPLIED FOR A NEW IDENTITY CARD SHOULD COME FORWARD WITHOUT DELAY."

/THE SPOKESMAN .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 198?

- 20 -

THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT FAILURE TO APPLY FOR A NEW ID CARD WITHIN THE SPECIFIED PERIOD IS AN OFFENCE LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $3,000.

APPLICANTS MAY GO TO ANY ONE OF EIGHT NEW ID CARD ISSUE OFFICES TO RENEW THEIR ID CARDS.

THEY MAY MAKE USE OF THE PHONE-IN SERVICE TO ARRANGE FOR AN APPOINTMENT BY CALLING THE OFFICE OF THEIR CHOICE.

THE ADDRESSES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF THE ISSUE OFFICES ARE:

HONG KONG : BASEMENT, 151 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI.

TEL. NO. 5-747070

EAST KOWLOON : AMOY GARDEN PLAZA, 2ND FLOOR, 77 NGAU TAU KOK ROAD.

TEL. NO. 3-7553679

WEST KOWLOON: CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 2ND FLOOR, 393 CANTON ROAD, YAU MA TEI.

TEL. NO. 3-7232424

TSUEN WAN : EAST ASIA COMMERCIAL CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, 29-37 TSUEN FU STREET.

TEL. NO. 0-4981259

SHA TIN : SHATIN CENTRE, PODIUM FLOOR, 2-16 WANG POK

STREET.

TEL. NO. 0-6059108

YUEN LONG : HOP YICK CENTRE, 2ND FLOOR, 31 HOP YICK ROAD.

TEL. NO. 0-793291

TUEN MUN : CHI LOK COMMERCIAL CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR,

CHI LOK FA YUEN.

TEL. NO. 0-4580862

SHEUNG SHUI : TSUEN WO TAI LAU, GROUND FLOOR, 82-84 SAN FUNG AVENUE, SHEK WU HUI.

TEL. NO. 0-927155

THESE OFFICES ARE OPEN FROM 8 AM TO 9.30 PM DAILY, EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.

”IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT THE ISSUE OFFICES WILL BE VERY CROWDED IN THE EVENINGS. TO AVOID HAVING TO QUEUE UP AT THE ISSUE OFFICES, APPLICANTS ARE ADVISED TO GO TO THESE OFFICES IN THE MORNINGS AND THE AFTERNOONS,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

HE REITERATED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.

--------0-----------

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 21 -

FIRING PRACTICE DAYS FOR NOVEMBER ♦ ♦ » ♦

FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE HA TSUEN-CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON 20 DAYS IN NOVEMBER.

THE PUBLIC IS WARNED NOT TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN RED FLAGS ARE HOISTED.

THE DATES AND TIMES OF THE PRACTICE ARE:

DATE TIME

NOVEMBER 7 (SATURDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 9 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 10 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 11 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 12 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 13 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 14 (SATURDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 16 (MONDAY) 8 AM - 11.59 PM

NOVEMBER 17 (TUESDAY) 0.01 AM - 11.59 PM

NOVEMBER 18 (WEDNESDAY) 0.01 AM - 11.59 PM

NOVEMBER 19 (THURSDAY) 0.01 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 20 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 21 (SATURDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 23 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 24 (TUESDAY) 8 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 25 (WEDNESDAY) 8 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 26 (THURSDAY) 8 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 27 (FRIDAY) 8 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 28 (SATURDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

NOVEMBER 30 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM

-----0------

/22.........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

GRAND OPENING FOR TUEN MUN FESTIVAL ♦ ♦ ♦ »

A GRAND OPENING AND VARIETY SHOW ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 9) IN THE TUEN MUN TOWN HALL WILL BE THE CURTAIN RAISER FOR THE 1987 TUEN MUN FESTIVAL.

THE ACTING REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR PETER NG, WILL OFFICIATE AT A SWITCHING-ON CEREMONY BEFORE THE SHOW WHICH WILL BE BROADCAST LIVE ON HK-TVB’S ’’ENJOY YOURSELF TONIGHT” PROGRAMME. MR NG WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR KINGSLEY SIT, AND ACTINO TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDWARD YAU.

AT THE END OF THE TV PROGRAMME, MR SIT WILL PRESENT A CHEQUE, REPRESENTING THE AMOUNT RAISED FOR THE COMMUNITY CHEST BY LOCAL RESIDENTS IN THE NAME OF FESTIVAL, TO A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY CHEST, MR LAU WONG-FAT.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MONTH-LONG FESTIVAL INCLUDE A FOLK SONG CONTEST, RUNNING COMPETITION, FILM SHOWS AND THE CHINA/HONG KONG GYMNASTIC TEAMS SPECTACULAR.

THE FESTIVAL IS PRESENTED BY THE FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE AND SPONSORED BY THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD AND REGIONAL COUNCIL.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHER TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 1987 TUEN MUN FESTIVAL AT 9 PM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 9) IN THE TUEN MUN TOWN HALL. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE REQUESTED TO ASSEMBLE IN THE FOYER OF THE TOWN HALL AT 8.45 PM WHERE AN INFORMATION OFFICER WILL BE PRESENT TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE.

- - 0 ----------

ESSAY COMPETITION TO COMBAT CRIME ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ *

THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME CAMPAIGN IS ORGANISING AN ANTI-TRIAD CAMPAIGN ESSAY COMPETITION TO ENHANCE RESIDENTS’ AND STUDENTS’ CIVIC SPIRIT AND TO AROUSE THEIR AWARENESS OF ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES.

THE DIFFERENT DIVISIONS OF THE COMPETITION ARE PRIMARY DIVIDION, JUNIOR-SECONDARY DIVISION AND SENIOR-SECONDARY DIVISION.

/THE ESSAY......♦ .

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

THE ESSAY TITLES FOR THE THREE CATEGORIES ARE, RESPECTIVELY, "REPENTANCE OF A PERSON TRAPPED BY A TRIAD SOCIETY", "HOW SHOULD A SECONDARY STUDENT REACTS TO MEMBERS OF A TRIAD SOCIETY" AND "DISCUSSION ON THE ILL EFFECTS OF A TRIAD SOCIETY".

WINNERS IN EACH DIVISION WILL BE AWARDED PRIZES AND OUTSTANDING WORKS WILL BE PUBLISHED IN THE TUEN MUN COMMUNITY STAR.

A PANEL OF JUDGES, COMPRISING REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND LOCAL TEACHERS, WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ADJUDICATION.

THOSE WHO ARE INTERESTED CAN OBTAIN AN APPLICATION FORM FROM THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES AS WELL AS THEIR RESPECTIVE SCHOOLS.

ESSAYS PERTAINING TO THE THEMES OF THE COMPETITION SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE DISTRICT OFFICE OR SUB-OFFICES BY NOVEMBER 20. RESULTS WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON DECEMBER 8 AND A PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY WILL BE HELD EARLY NEXT YEAR.

----o------

EQUESTRIAN SHOW TO LAUNCH SPORTS FESTIVAL * ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

KWUN TONG RESIDENTS WILL BE ABLE TO ENJOY A DAY OF ACTION WHEN THEY ATTEND THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL ’87 FORTNIGHT AT THE KOWLOON BAY RECREATION GROUND ON NOVEMBER 8 (SUNDAY).

HIGlfLlGHT OF THE DAY WILL BE AN EQUESTRIAN SHOW WHICH IS BEING INTRODUCED FOR THE FIRST TIME INTO DISTRICT SPORTS SCENE.

THE OPENING WILL ALSO FEATURE DRAGON AND LION DANCES, A BRASS BAND PERFORMANCE, FLAG-HOISTING AND AN ATHLETICS MEET.

OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY AT 10.30 AM WILL BE THE REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON), MR T.H. CHAU; PRESIDENT OF THE AMATEUR SPORTS FEDERATION AND OLYMPIC COMMITTEE OF HONG KONG, MR A. DE O. SALES; KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDDY CHAN; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM HANG-FAI; ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (LEISURE SERVICES) OF URBAN SERVICES, MR ROBIN GILL; PRESIDENT OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL '87, MR YU SUN-SAY; HONORARY PRESIDENT, MR WONG WAH-SANG AND CHAIRMAN OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, MR RONNIE WONG.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL TO BE HELD AT 10.30 AM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8) AT THE KOWLOON BAY RECREATION GROUND. INFORMATION OFFICER, MISS IRENE LAU, WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

------o -------

/24.......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 24 -

LAND SPORTS SAFETY DAY ON SUNDAY ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE 1987 LAND SPORTS SAFETY DAY WILL BE HELD AT THE DODWELL’S RIDGE POLICE CADET SCHOOL IN SHEUNG SHUT THIS SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8).

THE PROGRAMME FOR THE DAY WILL INCLUDE DEMONSTRATIONS, VIDEO DOCUMENTARIES, AND SEMINARS ON A NUMBER OF POPULAR LAND SPORTS.

THERE WILL ALSO BE EXHIBITIONS AND DISPLAYS MOUNTED BY LEADING LAND SPORTS ASSOCIATIONS.

THE EVENT IS ORGANISED BY THE LAND SPORTS SAFETY CAMPAIGN WORKING PARTY TO DELIVER THE ’’PLAY SAFE" MESSAGE TO THE PUBLIC AS WELL AS TO MORE SPECIFIC TARGET GROUPS.

THE DAY WILL START OFF WITH A ROLLER SKATING DEMONSTRATION AT 9.25 AM, FOLLOWED BY AN OPENING CEREMONY WITH THE CHAIRMAN OF REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG AS THE OFFICIATING GUEST.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CAMPAIGN WORKING PARTY SAID THE ANNUAL EVENT IS HELD TO STRESS THE "PLAY SAFE" MESSAGE IN VIEW OF THE NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS IN LAND SPORTS.

"WITH CORRECT KNOWLEDGE IN THE PARTICULAR SPORT CONCERNED AS WELL AS CAUTION AND COMMON SENSE, MOST OF THOSE ACCIDENTS . CAN BE AVOIDED," HE SAID.

VISITORS CAN ENJOY VIDEO DOCUMENTARIES INTRODUCING SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR LAND SPORTS LIKE ORIENTEERING AND CYCLING.

THEY WILL ALSO BE ABLE TO LEARN HOW TO PARTICIPATE SAFELY IN LAND SPORTS THROUGH A SERIES OF TALKS BY EXPERTS IN THEIR RESPECTIVE FIELDS, SUCH AS HIGH ALTITUDE TREKKING, AND TRACK AND FIELD EVENTS.

THERE WILL ALSO BE DEMONSTRATIONS IN CYCLING, CYCLING ON ROLLERS, ORIENTEERING, ARCHERY, AND ROLLER SKATING.

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND THE EVENT. SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE HAS BEEN ARRANGED TO BRING THEM FROM THE SHEUNG SHUI KCR STATION TO THE VENUE BETWEEN 9 AM - 11 AM.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE EVENT TO BE HELD ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8) AT THE DODWELL’S RIDGE POLICE CADET SCHOOL IN SHEUNG SHUI.

DEMONSTRATIONS WILL BEGIN AT 9.25 AM AND THE OFFICIAL OPENING CEREMONY BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG, WILL BE HELD AT 10 AM.

/members of •......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

MEMBERS OF THE PRESS SHOULD ARRIVE AT THE KOWLOON TONG KCR STATION ENTRANCE AT 8 AM ON SUNDAY. A PRESS COACH WILL TAKE THEM TO THE VENUE.

INFORMATION OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE AT SHEUNG SHUI KCR STATION BETWEEN 9 AM - 11 AM.

-----0------

SAI KUNG BLOOD DONATION EXERCISE * * ♦

COMMUNITY-SPIRITED RESIDENTS OF SAI KUNG ARE BEING INVITED TO TAKE PART IN A BLOOD DONATION EXERCISE ON DECEMBER 3 (THURSDAY) AT THE RENNIE'S MILL MIDDLE SCHOOL AND ON DECEMBER 4 (FRIDAY) AT THE SAI KUNG TOWN HALL.

THE EXERCISE, THE FIRST PROGRAMME OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT CIVIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN, AIMS AT ENCOURAGING LOCAL RESIDENTS TO GIVE BLOOD TO THE NEEDY AND TO BECOME RESPONSIBLE, CARING AND HELPFUL CITIZENS.

ANYONE AGED BETWEEN 18 TO 65, OF SOUND HEALTH AND WEIGHING 40.45 KG OR ABOVE, ARE WELCOME TO TAKE PART IN THE EXERCISE.

HOWEVER, THOSE WHO HAVE RECENTLY RECEIVED AN INOCULATION OR VACCINATION SHOULD INFORM THE NURSES ON DUTY BEFORE GIVING BLOOD.

PARTICIPANTS IN THE BLOOD DONATION EXERCISE MAY TAKE PART IN TEAMS OR AS INDIVIDUALS. EACH TEAM WILL BE PRESENTED A SOUVENIR PENNANT AND PARTICIPANTS WILL ALSO BE GIVEN A T-SHIRT ON A FIRST-COME-FIRST-SERVED BASIS.

THE BLOOD DONATION EXERCISE HAS BEEN JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT CIVIC EDUCATION PROMOTION COMMITTEE AND THE HONG KONG RED CROSS BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE. IT IS SPONSORED BY THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD.

APPLICATION FORMS HAVE ALREADY BEEN DISTRIBUTED TO THE DISTRICT’S MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES, OWNERS CORPORATIONS, RURAL COMMITTEES, SECONDARY SCHOOLS, LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS URGING SUPPORT FOR THE EXERCISE.

RESIDENTS WHO WANT TO SHOW THEIR SUPPORT CAN OBTAIN THE APPLICATION FORMS AT THE SAI KUNG TOWN HALL OR THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICE AT MAN NIN STREET, SAI KUNG TOWN. THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION IS NOVEMBER 11.

--------o-----------

/26........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 26 -

TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL BEGINS

*****

THE MONTH-LONG NINTH TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL WILL BEGIN TOMORROW (SATURDAY) WITH A FOOTBALL MATCH BETWEEN TWO VISITING TEAMS FROM CHINA.

THE SECRETARY FOR MUNICIPAL SERVICES, MR A.K. CHUI, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 8 PM IN THE YEUNG UK ROAD SPORTSGROUND.

EVENTS IN THE FESTIVAL RANGE FROM FOOTBALL TO GO-KART RACING, AND WILL TAKE PLACE AT VARIOUS VENUES IN THE DISTRICT. THERE WILL ALSO BE PERFORMANCES BY SPORTS TEAMS FROM CHINA.

FREE ADMISSION TICKETS AND COPIES OF THE PROGRAMME ARE AVAILABLE FROM OFFICES OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE, THE FEDERATION OF TSUEN WAN DISTRICT SPORTS AND RECREATION ASSOCIATIONS AND THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

THE FESTIVAL IS AN ANNUAL MAJOR DISTRICT ATTRACTION WITH MAIN FUNDING COMING FROM THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD, WHICH IS ONE OF THE ORGANISERS. THIS YEAR THE DISTRICT BOARD HAS CONTRIBUTED $300,000.

OTHER ORGANISERS INCLUDE THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE AMD THE FEDERATION OF TSUEN WAN DISTRICT SPORTS AND RECREATION ASSOCIATIONS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING OF THE 9TH TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL TO BE HELD AT 8 PM IN THE YEUNG UK ROAD SPORTSGROUND TOMORROW.

--------o----------

EYE CARE CAMPAIGN FOR ELDERLY STARTS TOMORROW

* * * *

A CEREMONY TO MARK THE OPENING OF THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT AND EASTERN DISTRICT EYE CARING CAMPAIGN FOR THE ELDERLY WILL BE HELD AT THE ST JAMES’ SETTLEMENT IN WAN CHAI TOMORROW (SATURDAY).

THE CAMPAIGN, JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS, AND WAN CHAI AND EASTERN DISTRICT BOARDS WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE HONG KONG OPTOMETRIC ASSOCIATION, IS EXPECTED TO BENEFIT MORE THAN 10,000 SENIOR RESIDENTS TN THE TWO DISTRICTS.

/OFFICIATING AT

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 198?

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING WILL BE THE REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON), MR T.H. CHAU; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS, MRS THERESA LAU; DISTRICT OFFICERS OF WAN CHAI AND EASTERN DISTRICTS, MR ALLAN CHOW AND MR GARY YEUNG; AND THE CO-CHAIRMEN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEES, MRS ANNA TANG AND MR TO BOON-MAN.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT AND EASTERN DISTRICT EYE CARING CAMPAIGN FOR THE ELDERLY TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT 11 AM AT MING HUA HALL, ST JAMES SETTLEMENT, 85 STONE NULLAH LANE, WAN CHAI.

--------o----------

CENTRAL, WESTERN SPORT FESTIVAL OPENS ON SUNDAY * « « « *

THE THREE-WEEK CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT SPORT FESTIVAL WILL BEGIN AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8) AFTERNOON.

A NUMBER OF ENTERTAINING ACTIVITIES INCLUDING A LION DANCE, TAI-CHI DEMONSTRATIONS, A DANCE PERFORMANCE AND DANCE-IN SESSION, POTTED GAMES AND A "TREASURE HUNT" ARE ON THE PROGRAMME.

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 2.30 PM WILL BE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR LAM KAM-KWONG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR VINCENT KO; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORT ASSOCIATION, MR LEUNG SIK-WAH.

THE FESTIVAL IS JOINTLY ORGAINSED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICE, URBAN COUNCIL AND CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORT ASSOCIATION, AND SPONSORED BY THE BOARD AND WESTERN DISTRICT JUNIOR POLICE CALL ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING OF CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT SPORT FESTIVAL AT 2.30 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8) AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT.

-----o-----

/28

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 28 -

FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL IN MONG KOK ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

A LARGE-SCALE CARNIVAL, AIMING TO ATTRACT MORE THAN 5,000 MONG KOK RESIDENTS, WILL BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 15 (SUNDAY) AT MACPHERSON PLAYGROUND TO PROMOTE THE CRIME PREVENTION MESSAGE.

IT WILL FEATURE GAMESTALLS SET UP BY LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND A VARIETY SHOW PERFORMED BY POPULAR SINGERS AND BANDS, TELEVISION PERSONALITIES AND ARTISTES.

A FITNESS EXERCISE DEMONSTRATION AND LION DANCES WILL ALSO BE STAGED.

PARTICIPANTS WILL BE ABLE TO WIN PRIZES AT A LUCKY DRAW.

AT THE SAME TIME, AN EXHIBITION ABOUT TRIAD SOCIETIES WILL BE PUT UP IN THE PLAYGROUND TO WARN YOUNG PEOPLE TO STAY AWAY FROM CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES AND VICE ESTABLISHMENTS.

THE FUNCTION IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE MONG KOK DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE AND THE MONG KOK POLICE STATION.

FREE ENTRY TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE MONG KOK DISTRICT OFFICE, 157 PRINCE EDWARD ROAD AND THE POLICE COMMUNITY RELATION OFFICE, MONG KOK POLICE STATION, 142 PRINCE EDWARD ROAD.

- - 0 -----------

DREDGING OF NORTHERN FAIRWAY IN VICTORIA HARBOUR ♦ ♦ ♦

THE NORTHERN FAIRWAY IN THE VICTORIA HARBOUR IS TO BE DREDGED EARLY NEXT YEAR UNDER A WORKS CONTRACT, TENDERS FOR WHICH IS NOW BEING INVITED BY THE CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

THE PURPOSE OF THE WORKS IS TO RESTORE THE NORTHERN FAIRWAY TO ITS ORIGINAL DREDGED LEVEL BY THE REMOVAL OF SILT DEPOSITED IN THE PAST FEW YEARS, THUS INCREASING THE DRAFT IN THE AREA TO FACILITATE NAVIGATION IN THE HARBOUR.

WORK ON THE PROJECT, COVERING AN AREA OF 1.5 SQUARE KILOMETRES, WILL START IN JANUARY AND TAKE FOUR MONTHS TO COMPLETE.

ALL TENDERS MUST BE SUBMITTED BEFORE 12 NOON ON NOVEMBER 27.

------o-------

/29........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 29 -

TSUEN WAN ROAD TO BE CLOSED AT NIGHT » * * ♦ »

TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FLYOVER, TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED AT TSUEN WAN ROAD NEAR THE ROUNDABOUT WITH TEXACO ROAD DAILY BETWEEN 11 PM AND 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY FROM MONDAY (NOVEMBER 9) TO WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 11).

UNDER THE ARRANGEMENTS, THE SLIP ROAD FROM THE ROUNDABOUT WITH TEXACO ROAD LEADING TO THE KOWLOON-BOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF TSUEN WAN ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC. VEHICLES HEADING FOR KOWLOON WILL HAVE TO USE THE ROUNDABOUT AT TEXACO ROAD, MA TAU PA ROAD, YEUNG UK ROAD AND KWAI FUK ROAD.

--------0 ---------

TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN CENTRAL ♦ * * *

THE FOLLOWING TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN CENTRAL, TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW FOR THE UPGRADED CONNAUGHT ROAD PROJECT, FROM 1 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8):

» LAMBETH WALK WILL BE RE-ROUTED FROM TWO-WAY TO ONE-WAY WESTBOUND;

* THE EXISTING BAN THAT NO VEHICLE EXCEEDING SEVEN METRES IN LENGTH IS ALLOWED TO ENTER THE SLIP ROAD SOUTH OF THE MURRAY ROAD MULTI-STOREY CARPARK WILL BE LIFTED; AND

* THE SLIP ROAD SOUTH OF THE MURRAY ROAD MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BETWEEN MURRAY ROAD AND COTTON TREE DRIVE WILL BE DESIGNATED A 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY. NO VEHICLE EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.

AT THE SAME TIME, CROSS-HARBOUR ROUTE NO. 103 ON ITS JOURNEYS TO POKF1ELD ROAD WILL RESUME ITS NORMAL ROUTING VIA THE SLIP ROAD SOUTH OF THE MURRAY ROAD MULTI-STOREY CARPARK. GREEN MINIBUS ROUTE NO.28 WILL BE DIVERTED VIA MURRAY ROAD AND THE SLIP ROAD SOUTH OF THE MURRAY ROAD MULTI-STOREY CARPARK TO JOIN COTTON TREE DRIVE.

MEANWHILE, TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FOOTBRIDGE ACROSS MURRAY ROAD, MURRAY ROAD BETWEEN LAMBETH WALK AND QUEENSWAY WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC EXCEPT EMERGENCY VEHICLES FROM 1 AM TO 6.30 AM ON SUNDAY.

DURING THE CLOSURE, VEHICLES TRAVELLING FROM CHATEP. ROAD TO QUEENSWAY WILL BE DIVERTED VIA LAMBETH WALK, COTTON TREE DRIVE, COTTON TREE DRIVE FLYOVER, THE SLIP ROAD SOUTH OF THE ST JOHN'S BUILDING AND GARDEN ROAD FLYOVER TO JOIN QUEENSWAY.

-----o------

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

*****

SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED ON REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 8) TO FACILITATE THE SERVICE AT THE CENOTAPH IN CENTRAL.

THE ARRANGEMENTS INCLUDE TEMPORARY CLOSURES OF THE FOLLOWING ROAD SECTIONS:

* JACKSON ROAD BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL AND CHATER ROAD, AND EDINBURGH PLACE NORTH BETWEEN QUEEN’S PIER AND HMS TAMAR, WILL BE CLOSED FROM 8 AM TO 12 NOON.

* CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL EASTBOUND BETWEEN EDINBURGH PLACE WEST AND EDINBURGH PLACE EAST WILL BE CLOSED FROM 10.50 AM TO 11.30 AM.

* HARCOURT ROAD FLYOVER, CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL WESTBOUND BETWEEN HARCOURT ROAD AND ICE HOUSE STREET, AND MURRAY ROAD NORTHBOUND BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL AND CHATER ROAD, WILL BE CLOSED FROM 10.28 AM TO 12 NOON.

* CHATER ROAD BETWEEN PEDDER STREET AND JACKSON ROAD, AND ICE HOUSE STREET BETWEEN QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL AND CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL, WILL BE CLOSED FROM 7 AM TO MIDNIGHT.

THE FOLLOWING DIVERSIONS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED FROM 8 AM TO 12 NOON UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED:

* AS JACKSON ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC, VEHICLES ON CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL WESTBOUND WILL BE DIVERTED VIA CLUB STREET.

* EASTBOUND TRAFFIC ON CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL WILL BE DIVERTED VIA EDINBURGH PLACE WEST, EDINBURGH PLACE NORTH AND EDINBURGH PLACE EAST FROM 10.50 'AM TO 11.30 AM. ALL BUSES AND HEAVY VEHICLES WILL USE THE NORTHERN LANE WHEN PASSING THROUGH THE QUEEN’S PIER CONCOURSE AREA.

* WESTBOUND TRAFFIC ON HARCOURT ROAD WILL BE DIVERTED SOUTH INTO COTTON TREE DRIVE. VEHICLES WISHING TO PROCEED FURTHER WEST WILL BE DIVERTED VIA THE SLIP ROAD TO QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL.

* EASTBOUND TRAFFIC FROM THE ADMIRALTY MTR STATION WILL BE PERMITTED TO TURN SOUTH INTO TAMAR STREET AND THEN LEFT INTO QUEENSWAY.

/* DURING THE.........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1987

- 31 -

* DURING THE CLOSURE OF CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL EASTBOUND BETWEEN EDINBURGH PLACE WEST AND EDINBURGH PLACE EAST FROM 10.50 AM TO 11.30 AM, EDINBURGH PLACE CENTRAL WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND. VEHICLES LEAVING THE STAR FERRY MUTL1-STOREY CAR PARK WILL BE DIVERTED VIA EDINBURGH PLACE CENTRAL, QUEEN'S PIER AND EDINBURGH PLACE EAST. I

ALL PARKING SPACES IN JACKSON ROAD WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 12.01 AM TO MIDNIGHT, AND THOSE ON CONNAUGHT PLACE WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 12.01 AM TO 12 NOON. MOTORCYCLE PARKING SPACES ON EDINBURGH PLACE NORTH WILL ALSO BE CANCELLED BETWEEN 12.01 AM AND 12 NOON.

THE TAXI STAND ON EDINBURGH PLACE WEST WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 10 AM TO 11.30 AM AND WILL BE RESITED TO THE EASTERN SIDE OF CONNAUGHT PLACE. THE GREEN MINIBUS TERMINI ON EDINBURGH PLACE EAST AND EDINBURGH PLACE CENTRAL WILL ALSO BE SUSPENDED FROM 10 AM TO 12 NOON, WILL BE RESITED TO THE NORTHERN SECTION OF CONNAUGHT PLACE.

BUSES ON CMB ROUTES NO. 2, 3, 6, 12, 13, 15, 26, 61, 64, 70, 80, 81M, 97, 99, 260, 780, CROSS-HARBOUR ROUTE NO. 103, AND KMB ROUTE NO. A2 WILL BE DIVERTED DUE TO THE SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS BETWEEN 10 AM AND 12 NOON. GREEN MINIBUSES ON ROUTES NO. 1, 1A, 3, 8, 9, 22 AND 28 WILL ALSO BE DIVERTED.

- 0 -----------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

NO MANIPULATION OF SURVEY REPORT RESULTS — CS............... 1

COMMITTEE TO HANDLE CCMPLAINTS ON TV PROGRAMMES............. 3

TAC CONSIDERS CMB FRANCHISE EXTENSION ...................... A-

VOLUNTEERS INVITED FOR COUNTRYSIDE CONSERVATION WORK........ 4

EYE CARE CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED.................................. 5

CCMIC STRIP COMPETITION ON ANTI-NARCOTICS................... 7

FINALS OF YOUNG MUSICIANS’ AWARDS........................... 8

MORE PUBLICITY TO PROMOTE RO,J) SAFETY IN KWAI TSING........ 8

TENDERS INVITED FOR SHa TIN FESTIVE LIGHTING................ 9

TWO YUEN LONG SITES TO LET.................................. 10

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SHEUNG WAN................ 10

SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN HAPPY VaLLEY, CAUSEWAY BAY . 11

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN SHA TIN .......................... 12

TRAFFIC CHANGES IN KOWLOON ................................. 12

TSUEN WAN, HAMMER HILL WATER CUT ........................... 13

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

NO MANIPULATION OF SURVEY REPORT RESULTS — CS ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, TODAY (SATURDAY) TOTALLY REJECTED THE IDEA THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD MANIPULATED THE RESULT OF THE REPORT BY THE SURVEY OFFICE ON PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER ON POLITICAL REVIEW.

HE ALSO URGED THAT A CAREFUL STUDY OF THE REPORT WAS REQUIRED AND ’’NOT HASTY JUDGEMENTS ON ONE PARTICULAR QUESTION OR ANOTHER".

SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER VISITING THE ANNUAL AUTUMN FAIR OF THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, HE STATED THAT GOVERNMENT’S POSITION WAS CRYSTAL CLEAR.

"WE HAVE A TOTALLY OPEN MIND AND NO PRE-CONCEIVED (DEAS AT ALL ON THE OUTCOME OF THE SURVEY REPORT," HE STRESSED.

"I THINK ANYONE WHO READS THE SURVEY REPORT CAREFULLY AND THOROUGHLY WILL COME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT IT HAS BEEN DONE VERY FAIRLY, VERY OPENLY AND VERY COMPREHENSIVELY.

"AND THE MONITORS THEMSELVES HAVE CONFIRMED THAT THIS IS THE CASE," HE ADDED.

THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID HE WAS SOMEWHAT SADDENED BY THE FACT THAT SOME PEOPLE, AFTER A VERY QUICK READING OF THE REPORT, HAI) TRIED TO DISCREDIT IT, "APPARENTLY BECAUSE THE OUTCOME DOES NOT YCCORD WITH THEIR OWN VIEWS."

"I THINK WE - THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND THE GOVERNMENT - OWE IT TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG NOT TO COME TO ANY HASTY CONCLUSIONS.

"WE WILL READ IT VERY CAREFULLY INDEED - IT’S A VERY LONG DOCUMENT."

MR FORD SAID THAT AS HE HAD SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WOULD SEE THAT WHEN THE DECISIONS WERE ANNOUNCED, "THEY DO TRULY REFLECT THEIR VIEWS AFTER A VERY CAREFUL READING OF THE REPORT."

WHEN ASKED WHETHER THE QUESTIONS IN THE AGB MCNAIR SURVEYS WERE VERY LOADED AND ONE-SIDED, MR FORD POINTED OUT THAT THE SURVEY DONE BY THE SURVEY OFFICE WERE DONE IN CONJUNCTION WI TH A PROFESSIONAL PUBLIC OPINION FIRM AND THAT IT HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE GOVERNMENT.

"IT WAS DONE IN A TOTALLY INDEPENDENT WAY \ND THE GOVERNMENT HAD NO INFLUENCE WHATSOEVER OVER THE AGB MCNAIR SURVEY.

HE ADDED THAT THE SURVEY WAS CARRIED OUT BY THIS FIRM AND THEIR PROFESSIONAL INTEGRITY WAS AT STAKE, AND THEY HAD DEFENDED THEIR SYSTEM OF CARRYING OUT THE SURVEY.

/HR FORD

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7» 1987

MR FORD NOTED THAT SEVERAL PEOPLE HAD SELECTED VARIOUS QUESTIONS AND HAD SAID THAT THOSE QUESTIONS WERE NOT PUT FAIRLY.

’’I THINK IF YOU STUDY THE REPORT AS A WHOLE YOU WILL SEE THAT THERE ARE OTHER SURVEYS WHICH BEAR OUT THE FINDINGS OF THE AGB MCNAIR SURVEY,” HE SAID.

"ONE SHOULD SPEND A LOT OF TIME READING VERY CAREFULLY THE TREMENDOUS EFFORTS THAT HONG KONG PEOPLE HAVE MADE IN COMPILING THIS REPORT AND THAT IS WHAT THE GOVERNMENT INTENDS TO DO.”

MR FORD DISAGREED THAT ANY PARTICULAR WEIGHT HAD BEEN GIVEN IN THE REPORT TO SIGNATURES OR LETTERS, ADDING THAT THEY WERE BOTH RECORDED VERY CAREFULLY IN THE REPORT.

"THEY ARE THERE FOR ALL TO SEE AND THE DEDUCTIONS ONE DRAWS FROM THEM ARE A MATTER FOR THE READER.”

AS TO WHY A REFERENDUM WAS NOT USED, MR FORD SAID THAT THE SUBJECTS THE HONG KONG PEOPLE WERE ASKED TO COMMENT ON WERE VERY WIDE AND VERY VARIED.

’’ALTHOUGH AS MANY PEOPLE HAVE SAID MOST PEOPLE COMMEMTED ON DIRECT ELECTIONS, MANY, MANY MORE PEOPLE COMMENTED ON THE OTHER WIDE RANGE OF ISSUES WHICH WERE REFLECTED IN THE GREEN PAPER.

"AND FOR THAT REASON I DON’T THINK YOU CAN ASK OR DEAL WITH THIS VERY COMPLEX SUBJECT BY A SIMPLE YES-NO ANSWER TO ONE SINGLE QUESTION.”

WHEN ASKED TO EXPLAIN THE DISCREPANCIES IN THE RESULT OF THE SURVEY CARRIED OUT BY AGB MCNAIR AND THOSE BY THE PRIVATE SECTOR, MR FORD SAID THAT THIS WAS INEVITABLE IN A SITUATION WHERE THE PROFESSIONAL SURVEY COMPANIES ADOPTED DIFFERENT METHODS IN ORDER TO PRODUCE A RESULT.

"THE AGB MCNAIR SURVEY WAS DONE BY WAY OF FACE-TO-FACE INTERVIEW. IT WAS A VERY CAREFUL SURVEY WHICH WAS DONE BY TAKING THE QUESTIONNAIRE VERY CAREFULLY THROUGH THE PEOPLE WHO ARE BEING ASKED THE QUESTIONS.

"IT IS INTERESTING THAT THE OTHER SURVEYS WHICH USED BROADLY THE SAME METHOD, THAT IS THE CONCERNED EDUCATIONAL GROUPS, CAME UP WITH VERY SIMILAR ANSWERS.

"NOW SOME OF THE OTHER SURVEYS USED DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES. THEY USED TELEPHONE METHODS OF SURVEY - PICKING UP THE TELEPHONE AND ASKING SIMPLE QUESTIONS.”

HE ADDED THAT IT WAS NOT SURPRISING THAT ONE WAS GOING TO GET A DIFFERENT VIEW.

MR FORD STRESSED THAT ALL THE INFORMATION WIRE NOW THERE AND THAT IT WOULD BE VERY CAREFULLY SIFTED THROUGH BY Till. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND THE GOVERNMENT.

------o ------- /3..................

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

COMMITTEE TO HANDLE COMPLAINTS ON TV PROGRAMMES ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

TELEVISION VIEWERS WHO ARE DISSATISFIED WITH WHAT THEY SEE ON TELEVISION MAY NOW AIR THEIR GRIEVANCES TO A COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE SET UP, BY THE RECENTLY ESTABLISHED BROADCASTING AUTHORITY.

THE BROADCASTING AUTHORITY ORDINANCE STIPULATED THAT WHERE A PERSON MAKES A COMPLAINT TO THE AUTHORITY THAT A TELEVISION LICENSEE OF ANY OTHER PERSON HAS CONTRAVENED THE TELEVISION ORDINANCE; OR THE TERMS OR CONDITIONS OF A LICENCE; OR A CODE OF PRACTICE, THE AUTHORITY SHALL REFER THE COMPLAINT TO THE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE.

THE COMMITTEE WILL GIVE THE SUBJECT OF THE COMPLAINT A REASONABLE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE REPRESENTATIONS, WHICH IT WILL CONSIDER WITH RELEVANT EVIDENCE, BEFORE MAKING RECOMMENDATIONS CONCERNING THE COMPLAINT TO THE AUTHORITY.

APART FROM WRITING TO THE BROADCASTING AUTHORITY AT 9TH FLOOR, NATIONAL MUTUAL CENTRE, 151, GLOUCESTER ROAD, HONG KONG, VIEWERS MAY ALSO USE THE NEWLY ESTABLISHED COMPLAINTS HOTLINE (5-8381122) TO PHONE IN THEIR COMPLAINTS.

THE HOTLINE IS MANNED DURING OFFICE HOURS AND CONNECTED TO A TELEPHONE RECORDER MACHINE OUTSIDE OFFICE HOURS. RECORDED MESSAGES WILL BE FOLLOWED UP ON THE FOLLOWING WORKING DAY.

THE AUTHORITY IS GIVEN WIDE DISCRETION UNDER THE BROADCASTING AUTHORITY AND TELEVISION ORDINANCES, INCLUDING THE ISSUE OF DIRECTIONS TO A LICENSEE AND THE IMPOSITION OF FINANCIAL PENALTIES.

THE AUTHORITY MAY, HOWEVER, REFUSE TO REFER COMPLAINTS CONSIDERED TRIVIAL OR FRIVOLOUS TO THE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE.

CHAIRED BY MR LO KING-MAN, THE COMMITTEE CONSISTS OF FOUR OTHER BROADCASTING AUTHORITY MEMBERS - MR IRA KAYE, MRS PAMELA CHAN WONG SHUI, MRS MABEL CHOW, AND THE SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION OR HIS REPRESENTATIVE. OTHER PUBLIC MEMBERS APPOINTED TO THE COMMITTEE ARE MR PETER <HAN (HEUNG-IIO, MR LAM KWOK-WAI AND MR CLEMENT TAO.

- 0 - -

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

TAC CONSIDERS CMB FRANCHISE EXTENSION *****

AN APPLICATION BY THE CHINA MOTOR BUS COMPANY LTD. (CMB) TO EXTEND ITS FRANCHISE FOR ANOTHER TWO YEARS TO AUGUST 31, 1991 WAS CONSIDERED AND SUPPORTED BY THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) TODAY (SATURDAY) AND ITS FfECOMMEN DAT TONS WILL BE CONSIDERED BY THE EXECUTIVE COUNCI I, IN DUE COURSE.

CMB’S CURRENT FRANCHISE WAS FIRST GRANTED IN 1975 FOR A PERIOD OF 10 YEARS AND HAS SINCE BEEN EXTENDED BY EXCO ON TWO OCCASIONS. THE LAST EXTENSION, TO AUGUST 31, 1989, WAS APPROVED IN APRIL 1986.

MEMBERS REVIEWED CMB’S PERFORMANCE OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS, AND CONSIDERED THAT THE COMPANY CONTINUES TO SHOW PROGRESSIVE IMPROVEMENT IN ITS MAINTENANCE STANDARDS, THAT THE SCHEDULES OF SERVICE HAVE BEEN ADEQUATELY MET, AND THAT IT HAS MET ITS OBLIGATIONS IN PREPARING A FIVE-YEAR FORWARD PLANNING PROGRAMME. THEY WERE STILL KEEPING AN EYE ON CMB’S MANAGEMENT AND BUS REPLACEMENT PROGRAMMES.

THE TAC ALSO DISCUSSED AN APPLICATION BY THE HONGKONG AND YAUMATI FERRY COMPANY LTD (HYF) FOR AN INCREASE IN FARES. IN CONSIDERING THE APPLICATION, MEMBERS EXAMINED THE EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSED FARE INCREASES ON THE COMPANY’S PATRONAGE, REVENUE, EXPENDITURE AND PROFIT FORECASTS. THEIR RECOMMENDATIONS WILL BE SUBMITTED TO EXCO FOR CONSIDERATION.

MEMBERS WERE ALSO BRIEFED ON HYE’S 1988-1992 FORWARD PLAN, INCLUDING ITS PROPOSED SERVICE CHANGES.

THE TAC ALSO AGREED TO EXAMINE THE ROLE OF PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES (PLB) IN THE TRANSPORT SYSTEM AT ITS NEXT MEETING TO BE HELD IN NOVEMBER. THE QUESTION OF THE SEATING CAPACITY FOR PLB'S AND POLICY GUIDELINES FOR THE OPERATION OF MIDIBUS SERVICES WILL THEN BE CONSIDERED IN DETAIL AT THE DECEMBER MEETING.

VOLUNTEERS INVITED FOR COUNTRYSIDE CONSERVATION WORK

*****

THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING SCHOOL AND ORGANISED GROUPS TO PARTICIPATE IN A SCHEME OF VOLUNTARY WORK ON COUNTRYSIDE MANAGEMENT WHICH WILL START FROM MONDAY (NOVEMBER 9).

THE YEAR-ROUND VOLUNTARY WORK SCHEME, THE NINTH ORGANISED BY THE DEPARTMENT SINCE 1978, AIMS AT PROVIDING THE YOUNGER GENERATION WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THE COUNTRYSIDE ENVIRONMENT THROUGH DIRECT INVOLVEMENT.

/THE SCHEME .......

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

- 5 -

THE SCHEME IS BECOMING INCREASINGLY POPULAR AND THE NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS HAS INCREASED FROM JUST 500 IN 1978 TO OVER 10,000 LAST YEAR. ALL RENDERED A .USEFUL SERVICE TOWARDS IMPROVING THE COUNTRYSIDE ENVIRONMENT.

THE DEPARTMENT’S SENIOR CONSERVATION OFFICER, MR M.K. CHEUNG, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT A VARIETY OF VOLUNTARY ACTIVITIES FROM MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS (EXCEPT PUBLIC HOLIDAYS) COULD BE UNDERTAKEN BY GROUPS INTERESTED IN CONTRIBUTING TO THE CONSERVATION OF THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT AND THE BETTER MANAGEMENT OF THE COUNTRYSIDE.

"IT IS HOPED THAT YOUNG PEOPLE WILL DEVELOP A SENSE OF RESPECT AND LOVE FOR OUR COUNTRYSIDE THROUGH PARTICIPATION IN VARIOUS CONSERVATION ACTIVITIES," HE SAID.

AS PART OF THE DEPARTMENT’S COUNTRYSIDE EDUCATION PROGRAMME, MR CHEUNG SAID, THIS YEAR’S SCHEME INCLUDED PLANTING AND TENDING OF TREES AND SHRUBS, MAINTENANCE OF FOOTPATHS AND COUNTRY PARK RECREATIONAL FACILITIES, LITTER COLLECTION, GRASS CUTTING AND CLEARING OF FIRE BREAKS.

"PARTICIPANTS SHOULD BE STUDENTS AND YOUTHS OF 15 YEARS OF AGE OR ABOVE AND THE NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS IN EACH GROUP SHOULD BE IN THE REGION OF 30 TO 50," HE SAID.

"THEY SHOULD BE SUPERVISED BY ONE OR MORE TEACHERS OR ADULT LEADERS."

MR CHEUNG SAID THAT INTEREST GROUPS SHOULD MAKE THEIR PRELIMINARY BOOKINGS BY CONTACTING MR T.H. LIU, OF THE DEPARTMENT’S CONSERVATION EDUCATION UNIT, ON 3-7332121. CONFIRMATION SHOULD THEN BE MADE BY COMPLETING AND RETURNING A BOOKING FORM TO THE UNIT SIX WEEKS BEFORE THEIR PROPOSED DATE OF SERVICE.

-------0-------

EYE CARE CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED * * * *

ELDERLY WHICH WAS

WAN CHAI AND EASTERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS AGED OVER 60 GIVEN FREE EYE CHECK-UPS AND, IF NECESSARY, SPECTACLES THREE-WEEK EYE CARE CAMPAIGN FOR THE LAUNCHED TODAY (SATURDAY).

WILL BE

IN THE

FORMALLY

GROUP OF HOSPITALS

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE TUNG WAH

WAN CHAI AND EASTERN DISTICT BOARDS WITH THE ASSISTANCE KONG OPTOMETRIC ASSOCIATION, THE CAMPAIGN IS AIMED AT EYE-CARE KNOWLEDGE TO RESIDENTS AND PROVIDING FREE EYE

AND THE

THE HONG

DISSEMINATING

CHECK-UPS FOR

THE AGED.

/SPEAKING AT

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

SPEAKING AT THE bPENING CEREMONY OF THE CAMPAIGN, REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON), MR T. H. CHAU, NOTED THAT PEOPLE OVER SO CONSTITUTED 15 PER CENT AND 12 PER CENT OF THE POPULATION IN WAN CHAI AND EASTERN DISTRICT RESPECTIVELY, WHILE THEIR ACTUAL NUMBER TOTALLED MORE THAN 90,000 IN THE TWO DISTRICTS COMBINED. THE PERCENTAGE OF OLD PEOPLE IN WAN CHAI IS ALSO THE HIGHEST OF ALL DISTRICTS IN HONG KONG.

HE BELIEVED THAT THE EYE CARE CAMPAIGN, WHICH AIMED AT PROVIDING USEFUL SERVICE TO SENIOR RESIDENTS IN THE TWO DISTRICTS, WOULD BE WELL-RECEIVED.

MR CHAU ALSO PRAISED THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS FOR JOINTLY ORGANISING EYE CARE CAMPAIGNS FOR THE ELDERLY WITH A NUMBER OF DISTRICT BOARDS AND INTRODUCING VARIOUS SOCIAL SERVICES IN HONG KONG AS WELL AS TAKING AN ACTIVE PART IN COMMUNITY BUILDING WORK.

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE TUNG WAT! GROUP OF HOSPITALS, MRS THERESA LAU, TOLD THE GATHERING THAT THIS WAS THE SEVENTH EYE CARE CAMPAIGN JOINTLY STAGED BY THE GROUP WITH DISTRICT BOARDS AND LOCAL ORGANISATIONS.

THE GROUP ALSO HAD PLANS TO EXPAND ITS INSTITUTIONAL CARE PROGRAMME, AND TO SET UP SOCIAL CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY TN SAU MAU PING AND IN MEI I.AM ESTATE IN SHA TIN IN THE NEAR FUTURE, SHE ADDED.

ALSO SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY, CO-CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE OF THE CAMPAIGN, MISS ANNA TANG, SAID THAT THE W*N CHAI DISTRICT BOARD’S CONCERN FOR TIIF. AGED WORKING GROUP W UH D TAKE PART IN THE FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY ORGANISED BY THE io ", KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE AND WOULD ARRANGE TOURS TO TH!. MAI PO MARSHES FOR THE AGED.

ANOTHER CO-CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR TO BOON-MAN, BELIEVED THAT THE EYE CARE CAMPAIGN WOULD BE POPULAR AND WOULD ATTRACT PARTICIPATION FROM PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT SOCIAL STRATA.

ALSO PRESENT AT THE CEREMONY WERE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICER MR ALLAN CHOJV; EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICER MR GARY YEUNG; WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN MRS PEGGY LAM, AND EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN MR SHUM CHOI-SANG.

FREE EYE CHECK-UP SERVICES AND EYE CARE EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD IN ST JAMES SETTLEMENT IN WAN CHAI FROM TODAY TO NOVEMBER 9. THE CAMPAIGN WILL THEN BE HELD IN OTHER VENUES IN THE DISTRICT UNTIL NOVEMBER 16 AND IN THE EASTERN DISTRICT FROM NOVEMBER 17-27.

ENQUIRIES MAY BE MADE TO THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICE ON 5-752477 OR TO EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE ON 5-641547.

_ _ 0 - -

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

- 7 -

COMIC STRIP COMPETITION ON ANTI-NARCOTICS * * * * ♦

PEOPLE WILL BE ABLE TO WIN ATTRACTIVE PRIZES BY DESIGNING COMIC STRIPS WHICH CONVEY THE MESSAGE THAT DRUG ABUSE IS HARMFUL.

THE OPEN COMPETITION IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE YOUTH VOLUNTEER GROUP (YVG) OF THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS, THE ACTIVITIES DEPARTMENT OF BREAKTHROUGH MAGAZINE, AND BREAKTHROUGH JUNIOR MAGAZINE.

IT IS DIVIDED INTO TWO SECTIONS : JUNIOR (10 - 17 YEARS OLD) AND SENIOR (18 YEARS OLD AND ABOVE).

ENTRIES, EITHER IN FULL COLOUR OR IN BLACK AND WHITE, MUST BE A SINGLE STRIP CARTOON MEASURING 15 CM AND 20 CM OR A SEQUENCE OF FOUR TO 10 STRIPS EACH MEASURING 7.5 CM TO 10 CM.

ENTRIES SHOULD REACH THE NARCOTICS DIVISION OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT AT 23RD FLOOR, HIGH BLOCK, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, CENTRAL, BY TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15.

THE TOP PRIZE IN THE SENIOR SECTION WILL BE A $1,000 GIFT COUPON AND A ONE-YEAR FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO BREAKTHROUGH MAGAZINE. THE WINNER OF THE JUNIOR SECTION WILL BE AWARDED A 4700 GIFT COUPON AND A ONE-YEAR FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO BREAKTHOUGH JUNIOR MAGAZINE.

ENTRY FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE NARCOTICS DIVISION, ALL DISTRICT OFFICES AND THE ACTIVITIES DEPARTMENT OF BREAKTHROUGH MAGAZINE.

MEANWHILE, TWO EXHIBITIONS PROMOTING THE CONTEST AND ANTI-DRUG MESSAGE ARE SCHEDULED TO BE HELI) AT THE NEW WORLD CENTRE TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AND AT CITY PLAZA PHASE I (NOVEMBER 22).

THERE WILL ALSO BE A COMIC STRIP SEMINAR AT THE BREAKTHROUGH CENTRE ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21. ADMISSIONS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.

FURTHER DETAILS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM 5-8622762 (NARCOTICS DIVISION) OR 3-7224411, EXT.345 (ACTIVITIES DEPARTMENT OF BREAKTHROUGH).

-------o ---------

/8........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

- 8 -

FINALS OF YOUNG MUSICIANS’ AWARDS ♦ » « ♦ ♦

THE CHINESE AND WESTERN MUSIC FINALS OF THIS YEAR’S HONG KONG YOUNG MUSICIANS' AWARDS WILL BE HELD AT THE CONCERT HALL, HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS, ON NOVEMBER 28 AND 29 AT 8 PM.

THE AWARDS ARE JOITNLY PRESENTED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE, RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG AND THE COMPOSERS AND AUTHORS SOCIETY OF HONG KONG (CASH).

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR THOMAS WANG, SAID THE CONTEST WAS AIMED AT RAISING THE STANDARD OF COMPOSING AND PERFORMING SERIOUS MUSIC AS WELL AS AROUSING INTEREST IN THE APPRECIATION OF SERIOUS MUSIC.

THERE ARE TWO CATEGORIES TN THE CHINESE AND WESTERN MUSIC SECTIONS, ONE FOR COMPOSITION AND THE OTHER FOR ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE.

THE THREE WINNERS IN EACH CATEGORY WILL BE AWARDED $6,000, $3,000 AND $1,000 RESPECTIVELY, AMOUNTING TO A TOTAL OF $40,000, AND ALL DONATED BY CASH.

TICKETS FOR THE FINALS AT $10 EACH ARE AVAILABLE AT URBTIX OUTLETS AT CITY HALL, QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM, SPACE MUSEUM, HONG KONG COLISEUM, NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE, TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL, SHA TIN TOWN HALL, TUEN MUN TOWN HALL, TOM LEE MUSIC CO. LTD., HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS AND HONG KONG ARTS CENTRE.

-----0------

MORE PUBLICITY TO PROMOTE ROAD SAFTY IN KWAI TSING ♦ ♦ ♦ * ♦

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS CAUSED EIGHT FATALITIES AND MORE THAN 150 CASES OF INJURY IN KWAI TSING DISTRICT IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF THIS YEAR.

THIS WAS SAID BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN, MR SIU KONG-YU AT, THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE CAMPAIGN TODAY (SATURDAY).

MR SIU NOTED THAT THE TOTAL NUMBER OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS WAS APROX1MATELY THE SAME AS IN THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD LAST YEAR, THOUGH THERE WAS ONE FATALITY FEWER LAST YEAR.

MORE PUBLICITY WOULD BE REQUIRED TO PROMOTE ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES AMONG RESIDENTS OF THE DISTRICT, HE SAID.

/A CARNIVAL

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

A CARNIVAL WAS HELI) AFTER THE OPENING CEREMONY. RESIDENTS TOOK PART IN A MASS DRAWING EXERCISE, VISITED THE ROAD SAFETY BUS AND VIEWED AN EXHIBITION OF THE WINNING ENTRIES IN A SPECIAL DRAWING AND SLOGAN DESIGN COMPETITION.

A ROAD SAFETY BUS, DECORATED WITH BANNERS AND POSTERS, WILL TOUR THE SEVEN SUB-DISTRICTS ON NOVEMBER 14 AND 15 TO MAKE RESIDENTS MORE FULLY AWARE OF THE CAMPAIGN.

OFFICIATING AT TODAY'S OPENING CEREMONY WERE THE KWAI TS 1 NG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BRIAN COAK; KWAI CHUNG POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR E.H. EVANS; POLICE SENIOR STAFF OFFICER (N.T. TRAFFIC), MR I.M. BLAIR; KWAI TSI NG DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR HO TUNG-CHING; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE, MR CHAN KWOK-WAH.

- - 0 - -

TENDERS INVITED FOR SHA TIN FESTIVE LIGHTING

*****

TENDERS ARE BEING INVITED TO MAKE AND INSTALL FESTIVE LIGHTING DECORATIONS ALONG SHING MUN RIVER IN SHA TIN FOR CHRISTMAS, NEW YEAR AND CHINESE NEW YEAR.

THE FOCUS OF THE DECORATION WILL BE THE SAND MARTIN BRIDGE, BANYAN BRIDGE AND RIVER PROMENADES ALONG THE RIVER. DESIGNS OF LIGHTING WILL BE PROVIDED BY THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD’S FESTIVE LIGHTING ORGANISING COMMITTEE.

ALL TENDERS SHOULD REACH THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE ON 6/F, KCR HOUSE, SHA TIN STATION BEFORE 3 PM ON NOVEMBER 17. INTERESTED PARTIES ARE INVITED TO ATTEND A BRIEFING AT 2 PM NEXT TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 10) AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE.

ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE TO MR CHAN ON 0-6048078 EXT 201.

- - 0 -

/10

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

10 -

TWO YUEN LONG SITES TO LET ♦ ♦ ♦ t

TWO SITES IN YUEN LONG ARE TO BE LET BY TENDER ON SHORT TERM TENANCIES BY THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT.

THE SITE AT MA TIN ROAD, MEASURING 3,870 SQUARE METRES, IS FOR STORING GOODS AND VEHICLES OR FOR A FEE PAYING CAR PARK PURPOSE.

THE TENANCY IS TWO YEARS, RENEWABLE QUARTERLY AFTERWARDS.

THE OTHER SITE, AT THE JUNCTION OF TAI TONG ROAD AND KAU YUK ROAD, IS FOR PARKING OF PRIVATE CARS AND LIGHT GOODS VEHICLES. IT HAS AN AREA OF 2,536 SQUARE METRES.

THE TENANCY IS ONE YEAR, RENEWABLE MONTHLY AFTERWARDS.

TENDERS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY NOON ON NOVEMBER 20.

-------0----------

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC? ARRANGEMENTS IN SHEUNG WAN ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

TO FACILITATE ROAD RECONSTRUCTION WORK IN BONHAM STRAND NEAR ITS JUNCTIONS WITH WELLINGTON STREET AND QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, A NUMBER OF TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 9). THEY INCLUDE:

♦ RIGHT TURN MOVEMENTS WILL BE BANNED FROM QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL INTO BONHAM STRAND.

♦ VEHICLES ALONG WELLINGTON STREET MUST TURN LEFT INTO QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL.

♦ THE SECTION OF JERVOIS STREET BETWEEN MERCER STREET AND BONHAM STRAND WILL BE CONVERTED INTO A CUL-DE-SAC.

♦ METER PARKING SPACES ALONG JERVOIS STREET WILL BE SUSPENDED.

THE ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IN FORCE FOR ABOUT SIX WEEKS.

AFFECTED VEHICLES WILL BE DIVERTED VIA QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL AND MORRISON STREET TO JOIN BONHAM STRAND.

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/11

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN HAPPY VALLEY, CAUSEWAY BAY ♦ * ♦ * ♦

SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN HAPPY VALLEY AND CAUSEWAY BAY TN CONNECTION WITH THE RELIGOUS MEETINGS AT THE HONG KONG STADIUM IN THE EVENINGS FROM MONDAY (NOVEMBER 9) TO SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) AND IN THE AFTERNOON ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15).

THE FOLLOWING ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED TWO HOURS PRIOR TO THE COMMENCEMENT OF EACH MEETING:

♦ CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN LINK ROAD AND STADIUM PATH WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND.

♦ CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN EASTERN HOSPITAL ROAD AND LEIGHTON ROAD/PENN1NGTON STREET WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC.

♦ CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN COTTON PATH \NI) LEIGHTON ROAD/PENNINGTON STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND.

♦ EASTERN HOSPITAL ROAD BETWEEN STADIUM PATH AND TUNG LO WAN ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND. VEHICULAR ACCESS TO THE ST PAUL’S HOSPITAL CARPARK FROM TUNG LO WAN ROAD WILL BE MAINTAINED.

♦ LINK ROAD BETWEEN CAROLINE HILL ROAD AND HAPPY VIEW TERRACE WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE WAY UPHILL; VEHICLES EXISTING FROM THE UPPER SECTION OF BROADWOOD ROAD, HAPPY’ VIEW TERRACE AND LEIGHTON HILL SHOULD TRAVEL DOWNHILL VIA BROADWOOI) ROAD TO WONG NAI CHUNG ROAD.

THE FOLLOWING ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE MEETINGS CLOSE:

♦ CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN STADIUM PATH AND LEIGHTON ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND.

♦ CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN LEIGHTON ROAD AND COTTON PATH WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC.

* LINK ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC EXCEPT FOR ACCESS TO OR FROM PREMISES AT LINK ROAD VIA BROADWOOI) ROAD.

THESE ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE WITHDRAWN ON COMPLETION OF EACH SESSION AND AFTER THE MAJORITY OF ATTENDANTS HAVE DISPERSED.

ALL PARKING SPACES IN SUN WUI ROAD, STADIUM PATH AND THE UNNAMED SERVICE ROAD AROUND THE STADIUM WILL Bl SUSPENDED FOUR HOURS BEFORE UNTIL TWO HOURS AFTER EACH MEETING.

/LEARNER DRIVERS........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

LEARNER DRIVERS WILL BE BANNED FROM MATHESON STREET, RUSSELL STREET AND SHARP STREET EAST FOUR HOURS BEFORE UNTIL TWO HOURS AFTER EACH MEETING.

ALSO, THEY WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO TURN LEFT FROM PERCIVAL STREET SOUTHBOUND INTO LEIGHTON ROAD EASTBOUND, OR ENTER TUNG LO WAN ROAD FROM CAUSEWAY ROAD.

- 0 - -

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN SHA TIN « ♦ * ♦

TO FACILITATE ROAD WORKS, THE FAST LANE OF SHA TIN ROAD SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL AND TSANG TAI UK WILL BE CLOSED FROM MIDNIGHT TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AND MONDAY (NOVEMBER 9).

BETWEEN MIDNIGHT AND 6 AM THE NEXT MORNING ON NOVEMBER 11 AND 12, THE SLOW LANE OF THE SAME SECTION OF SHA TIN ROAD WILL ALSO BE CLOSED.

- - 0 -

TRAFFIC CHANGES IN KOWLOON » » * * ♦

TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FLYOVER ALONG BOUNDARY STREET, NO VEHICLE ON SAI YEUNG CHOI STREET NORTH WILL BE ALLOWED TO TURN LEFT ON TO BOUNDARY STREET DAILY BETWEEN 1 AM AND 5 AM FROM TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 10) TO NOVEMBER 30.

VEHICLES ON TAI PO ROAD HEADING FOR BOUNDARY STREET WILL HAVE TO PROCEED ALONG TAI PO ROAD, CHEUNG SHA WAN ROAD AND BOUNDARY STREET.

FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY, THE EXISTING PEAK-HOUR (I.E. 7 TO 10 AM AND 4 TO 7 PM) DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTION ON THE SECTION OF CASTLE PEAK ROAD FROM A POINT ABOUT 60 METRES WEST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH WING LUNG STREET TO A POINT ABOUT 20 METRES EAST OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE EXTENDED TO OPERATE BETWEEN 7 AM AND 7 PM DAILY.

NO VEHICLE OTHER THAN FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP WITHIN THE URBAN CLEARWAY FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS.

- - 0 -

/15

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1987

TSUEN WAN, HAMMER HILL WATER CUT * * * »

SALT WATER SUPPLY TO ALL PREMISES IN TSUEN WAN AND KWAI CHUNG, EXCLUDINGuX ESTATE. LAI YIU ESTATE, CHO YIU CHUEN ANO LA! K!NO TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA, WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 9 AM TO 10 PM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 10).

THE SUSPENSION IS TO FACILITATE REPAIR WORK TO BE CARRIED OUT AT A PUMPING STATION IN TSUEN WAN.

MEANWHILE, FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME HAMMER WILL ALSO BE SUSPENDED FROM 10 PM ON THE SAME DAY FOLLOWING DAY TO ALLOW MAINS WORK TO PROCEED.

HILL PREMISES

TO 6 AM THE

KING

THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT HAMMER HILL ROAD, KING TUNG STREET AND PING TING ROAD INCLUDING FU SHAN COURT, DIAMOND HILL AND NGAU CHI WAN VILLAGE.

FUNG SHING STREET, SHAN ESTATE, KING

PREMISES IN CHOI HUNG ESTATE AND SAN PO KONG MAY EXPERIENCE WEAK PRESSURE.

- - 0 -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

REMEMBRANCE DAY OBSERVED ................................... 1

INSIGNIA TO BE PRESENTED ................................... 1

CREDIT UNIONS FACING NEW CHALLENGES ........................ 2

LAND SPORTS HIDDEN DANGERS STRESSED AT SAFETY DAY .......... 3

CARTOGRAPHIC UNIT WINS TOP AWARDS .......................... U

CMB STRIVES TO PROVIDE CHEAP AND EFFICIENT SERVICE.......... 5

KWUN TONG FESTIVE FORTNIGHT BEGINS ......................... 6

GUARD MACHINERY WARNING REITERATED ......................... 7

COURSES FOR TECHNICAL SUBJECTS TEACHERS .................... 8

NORTH DISTRICT SEMINAR ON BUILDING MANAGEMENT............... 9

COOKED FOOD CENTRES FOR MONG KOK, CENTRAL .................. 10

VISITS TO CENTRES FOR ELDERLY IN SAI KUNG .................. 10

ROAD SAFETY DAY DRAWS LARGE CROWD .......................... 11

CENTRAL, WESTERN SPORT FESTIVAL BEGINS ..................... 11

INSTALLATION OF SYi._—..I BAI KOK TSUI PROPOSED............. 12

TUEN MUN WATER CUT ......................................... 13

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN WANG TAU HCM ..................... 13

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1987

REMEMBRANCE DAY OBSERVED ♦ » * *

THE REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY WAS HELD AT THE CENOTAPH IN STATUE SQUARE THIS (SUNDAY) MORNING.

WREATHS WERE LAID BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON; THE COMMANDER BRITISH FORCES, MAJOR-GENERAL GARRY JOHNSON; THE CHIEF JUSTICE, SIR DENYS ROBERTS; REPRESENTATIVES OF THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS; COMMONWEALTH COMMISSIONERS; THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, MR RAYMON ANN ING; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL, MR GERRY FORSGATE; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG; AND CHAIRMEN OF THE DISTRICT BOARDS.

WREATHS WERE ALSO LAID BY SERVICE COMMANDERS, AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, SERVICE UNITS, TRADITIONAL COMMUNITY ORGA I NSAT IONS, EX-SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATIONS, SOCIETIES AND OTHER BODIES.

MEANWHILE, THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT OBSERVED REMEMBRANCE DAY BY HOLDING A SERVICE IN THE MAIN HALL OF THE OFFICERS’ CLUB OF THE DEPARTMENT IN STANLEY.

THE SERVICE WAS ATTENDED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, MR CHAN WA-SHEK, STAFF AND FRIENDS OF THE DEPARTMENT.

AFTER THE SERVICE, THE CONGREGATION, LED BY THE CAPE COLLINSON BAND, MARCHED TO STANLEY MILITARY CEMETERY AND TOOK PART IN A WREATH-LAYING CEREMONY.

------0------- t

INSIGNIA TO BE PRESENTED

* * * *

INSIGNIA FOR 87 PEOPLE WILL BE PRESENTED BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AT A CEREMONY AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE AT 6 PM TOMORROW (MONDAY).

EIGHTY-FIVE RECIPIENTS WERE DECORATED BY THE QUEEN FOR SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC, WHILE TWO WERE AWARDED THE GOVERNOR’S COMMENDATION.

MR JOHN SWAINE AND MR WONG PO-YAN WILL RECEIVE THE (’BE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

ONLY PHOTOGRAPHERS AND CAMERAMEN WITH SPECIAL PASSES WILL BE ADMITTED TO GOVERNMENT HOUSE. THE! SHOULD MEET GIS OFFICERS IN THE GUARD ROOM NOT LATER THAN 5.30 PM.

NEWSPAPERS WITHOUT SUCH PASSES WILL BE ABLE TO OBTAIN PHOTOGRAPHS BY ARRANGEMENT WITH CAMBRIDGE’S STUDIO, 802 YIP FUNG BUILDING, 2-I 2 I) ’AGUILAR STREET, CENTRAL, TELEPHONE 5-223314.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1987

- 2

CREDIT UNIONS FACING NEW CHALLENGES * ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, DR LAWRENCE LEE, THIS (SUNDAY) EVENING PRAISED THE ACHIEVEMENT OF THE LOCAL CREDIT UNION MOVEMENT IN THE LAST 20 YEARS, NOTING THAT LOANS ISSUED TO MEMBERS AMOUNTED TO MORE THAN $105 MILLION.

HOWEVER, HE ADVISED CREDIT UNIONISTS NOT TO BE COMPLACENT. "FOR THERE ARE MANY NEW CHALLENGES AHEAD AS BOTH THE INTERNAL AND THE EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT UNDER WHICH THE MOVEMENT SURVIVES AND DEVELOPS ARE IN A STATE OF CONTINUOUS CHANGE," HE SAID.

"INTERNALLY, THERE IS THE PROBLEM OF AGEING MEMBERSHIP AND THE INCREASING MANAGEMENT DIFFICULTIES ACCOMPANIED BY THE RAPID EXPANSION OF THE CREDIT UNION’S BUSINESS.

"EXTERNALLY, THE CREDIT UNIONS HAVE TO FACE UP TO THE KEEN COMPETITION FROM OTHER FINANCIAL AND LENDING INSTITUTIONS. PERHAPS, THE TIME IS DUE FOR THE MOVEMENT TO THINK OF THESE PROBLEMS AND TO DRAW UP ACTION PLANS TO SOLVE THEM."

DR LEE, IN HIS CAPACITY AS REGISTRAR OF CREDIT UNIONS, WAS ADDRESSING A DINNER RECEPTION HELI) TO CELEBRATE THE 1987 INTERNATIONAL CREDIT UNION DAY.

EVERY YEAR, A SPECIAL DAV IS SET ASIDE BY THE INTERNATIONAL CREDIT UNION MOVEMENT TO HONOUR THE HERITAGE OF CO-OPERATIVE PHILOSOPHY, RECALL THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF IIS PIONEERS, AND RENEW THE CONTINUING COMMITMENT TO DEVELOP THE CREDIT UNION MOVEMENT TO SERVE THE NEEDS OF ITS MEMBERS. THIS DAV IS ALSO OBSERVED IN HONG KONG.

DR LEE SAID THE CREDIT UNION LEAGUE’S COMMITMENT IN ORGANISING A RECENT REGIONAL SEMINAR IN HONG KONG ON "WOMEN’S INVOLVEMENT IN CREDIT UNIONS" MARKED A FIRST STEP IN THIS DIRECTION.

"I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT ALL OF YOU WILL CONTINUE TO ASSESS AND APPRAISE THE STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES OF THE MOVEMENT AND BF PREPARED TO MEET THE CHALLENGES FOR EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT AND IMPROV ED SERVICES TO MEMBERS," HE SAID.

HE NOTED THAT THE MOVEMENT HAD ENJOYED ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR IN 1987 AND THAT THERE WERE NOW 66 REGISTERED CREDIT UNIONS WITH 29,000 MEMBERS, AND SAVINGS AMOUNTING TO SOME $68 MILLION. THE TOTAL MEMBERSHIP AND SAVINGS INCREASED BY 16 PER CENT AND 24 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY OVER LAST YEAR’S FIGURES.

DR LEE PAID TRIBUTE TO THE CREDIT UNION MEMBERS WHOSE VOLUNTARY AND DEDICATED SERVICES HAD BROUGHT ABOUT HIE SUCCESS OF THE MOVEMENT TN HONG KONG. HE PREVENTED CERTIFICATES OF AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING ON LONG SERVIE TO THEM.

/"THIS IS

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 19$7

"THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THAT SUCH AWARDS HAVE BEEN MADE TO MEMBERS OF CREDIT UNIONS.

”1 DO HOPE THAT YOU WILL LOOK UPON THE AWARDS AS A SIGN OF ENCOURAGEMENT AND CONTINUE TO SERVE UNSELFISHLY IN THE YEARS TO COME AND THAT THESE AWARDS SHOULD NOT BE LOOKED UPON AS AN END IN THEMSELVES,” HE ADDED.

THE RECIPIENTS OF CERTIFICATES OF AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE WERE MR A.M. CARSTAIRS, FR JOHN COLLINS, S J, MR KWOK TAK-PUI, MR LAM KWOK-YIN, MR LOW SHIU-KWONG, MR ANDREW SO, MR TANG KA I-TAN AND MR WONG KAM-WING.

MADAM CHENG HING-YEE, MR LAI SHU-CHEUNG, MR LAU WING-WAN, MR LEE KAR-CHUNG, MR SHIU KWOK-WAI AND MR TONG PING-HUEN WERE AWARDED CERTIFICATES FOR LONG SERVICE.

-----0------

LAND SPORTS HIDDEN DANGERS STRESSED AT SAFETY DAY ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE INCREASING OPPORTUNITIES FOR TAKING PART IN SPORTING AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES MEAN THAT OBSERVANCE OF THE BASIC SAFETY RULES IS BECOMING MORE IMPORTANT, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).

SPEAKING TO LEADERS IN VARYING SPORTING ACTIVITIES XT THE OPENDING OF THE LAND SPORTS SAFETY DAY AT THE DODWELL’S RIDGE POLICE CADET SCHOOL IN SHEUNG SIIUI , MR CHEUNG REMINDED THEM NOT TO IGNORE THE HIDDEN DANGERS IN SPORTING ACTIVITIES AND NEVER TO THINK THAT ACCIDENTS WOULD NOT REALLY HAPPEN TO THEM.

HE COMMENDED THE COMMITTEE ON SAFETY IN OUTDOOR PURSUITS FOR ORGANISING A LAND SPORTS SAFETY DAX EACH YEAR AND THE REGULAR PUBLICITY CAMPAIGNS THAT REMINDED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO PLAY SAFE ALL THE TIME.

"ACCIDENTS CAN KILL," MR CHEUNG SAID. ”1 WOULD LIKE TO REMIND EVERYONE, BEGINNERS AND EXPERTS, TO OBSERVE THE ’PLAY SAFE’ MOTTO".

EARLIER, IN HIS WELCOMING SPEECH, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE WORKING PARTY ON THE LAND SPORTS SAFETY CAMP I GN, MR P.E. BIRNEY, SAID ALTHOUGH HE WAS GLAD TO SEE THAT THE CAMPAIGN HAD BEEN SUCCESSFUL, AS THE FIGURES FOR REPORTED ACCIDENTS IN 19K7 SHOWED A WELCOME DECLINE OVER THE PRECEDING YEAR, A NUMBER OF REC ENT INCIDENTS UNDERLINED THE IMPORTANCE OF EFFECTIVE TRAINING AND SUPERVISION AS WELL AS SENSIBLE, SAFE PARTICIPATION.

/’•I HOPE ............

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1987

"I HOPE THAT THE DIFFERENT FORMAT ADOPTED FOR THIS SAFETY DAY, PROVIDING MORE OUTDOOR DEMONSTRATIONS AND PARTICIPATION, WILL EFFECTIVELY GET THE SAFETY MESSAGE ACROSS,” MR BIRNEY SAID.

THE 1987 LAND SPORTS SAFETY DAY HAS BEEN PLANNED WITH LEADERS AND INSTRUCTORS IN LAND SPORTS AS ITS PRIME TARGET AUDIENCE.

IT IS ALSO ATTENDED BY REPRESENTATIVES FROM SCHOOLS, SPORTS GROUPS AND ASSOCIATIONS AS WELL AS PRIVATE ORGANISATIONS WITH SPORTS CLUBS.

THE EVENT HAS ALSO ATTRACTED A LARGE NUMBER OF TEENAGERS WHO, THROUGH SEMINARS, DEMONSTRATIONS AND VIDEO DOCUMENTARIES, LEARN HOW TO PARTICIPATE SAFELY IN A NUMBER OF POPULAR LAND SPORTS.

-----0------

CARTOGRAPHIC UNIT WINS TOP AWARDS ♦ * ♦ t

THE CARTOGRAPHIC UNIT OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT HAS WON TWO PRESTIGIOUS PROFESSIONAL, AWARDS FOR THE EXCELLENCE OF ITS MAP AND CARTOGRAPHIC DESIGNS.

COMPETING AGAINST NUMEROUS ENTRIES FROM OTHER PROFESSIONAL BODIES OF INTERNATIONAL STANDING, THE UNIT, WHICH IS PART OF THE DEPARTMENT’S SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, WAS (’HOSEN AS THE WINNER OF THE 1987 BRITISH CARTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY DESIGN AWARD AND THE HIGHLY COMMENDED CATEGORY OF THE JOHN BARTHOLOMEW AWARD IN THEMATIC CARTOGRAPHY.

THE BCS DESIGN AWARD WAS FOR THE ’’COUNTRYSIDE SERIES MAP OF THE NORTH-EAST NEW TERRITORIES” Wil ILE THE JOHN BARTHOLOMEW AWARD WAS FOR A MAP - ENTITLED "HONG KONG BUYING FROM THE WORLD" - WHICH APPEARED AS THE END-PAPER MAP IN THE 1987 HONG KONG YEAR BOOK.

THE CARTOGRAPHIC UNIT’S ACHIEVEMENT WAS ALL THE MORE REMARKABLE IN THAT IT WAS ONLY ITS SECOND ATTEMPT. IN ITS FIRST ATTEMPT IN 1986, THE UNIT WON A HIGHLY COMMENDED AWARD FOR ITS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP ’’THE TERRITORY OF HONG KONG", WHICH APPEARED AS THE FRONTISPIECE OF THE HONG KONG YEAR BOOK.

/BCS REGULATIONS

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1987

- 5 -

BCS REGULATIONS FORBID THE AWARD TROPHY FROM BEING TAKEN OUTSIDE THE UNITED KINGDOM SO LT WILL BE DISPLAYED IN THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT OFFICE IN LONDON FOR ONE YEAR. INSTEAD, THE UNIT WAS PRESENTED WITH A SILVER MEDAL FOR THE BCS DESIGN AWARD AS WELL AS A JOHN BARTHOLOMEW CERTIFICATE IN THE AWARDS CEREMONY HELD AT GLASGOW UNIVERSITY RECENTLY.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

BOTH THE BRITISH CARTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY MEDAL AND THE JOHN BARTHOLOMEW CERTIFICATE, AS WELL AS THE WINNING ENTRIES, WILL BE DISPLAYED IN THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE (5/F MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD) FOR MEMBERS OF THE PRESS AT 3 PM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 10). STAFF WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THE WINNING ENTRIES WILL BE PRESENT TO MEET THE MEDIA TO ANSWER QUESTIONS AND EXPLAIN THEIR WORK.

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND A REPORTER AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHER TO COVER THE EVENT.

CMB STRIVES TO PROVIDE CHEAP AND EFFICIENT SERVICE ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE ORDER OF 20 NEW THREE-AXLE BUSES BY THE CHINA MOTOR BUS COMPANY (CMB) TO REPLACE SOME OF ITS OLD ONES CLEARLY DEMONSTRATES CMB'S COMMITMENT TO IMPROVE ITS SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC, THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT, MR JAMES SO, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).

OFFICIATING AT A CEREMONY TO INTRODUCE CMB*S NEW THREE-AXLE BUSES, MR SO SAID THAT HE UNDERSTOOD FROM CMB’S FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME THAT THE COMPANY HAS PLANS TO PURCHASE MORE NEW BUSES TO GRADUALLY REPLACE ITS EXISTING AGEING FLEET.

’’THIS, INDEED, IS GOOD NEWS AND I CONGRATULATE CMB FOR ITS CONTRIBUTION IN PROVIDING A RELATIVELY CHEAP AND EFFICIENT PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICE ON HONG KONG ISLAND AND HOPE THAT IT WILL CONTINUE TO STRIVE TO IMPROVE THE STANDARDS OF ITS SERVICE IN THE YEARS AHEAD," HE SAID.

ON THE NEW THREE-AXLE METROBUSES, MR SO SAID THEY ARE 12-METRES LONG AND BELONG TO THE JUMBO CLASS, AND ARE CAPABLE OF CARRYING 168 PASSENGERS EACH. THESE NEW BUSES COST NEARLY $1 MILLION EACH AND INCORPORATE THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY AND COMFORT FEATURES IN DOUBLE-DECK BUSES.

/’’BY EARLY

SUNDAYt NOVEMBER 8, 1987

"BY EARLY NEXT YEAR ALL 20 NEW BUSES WILL BE PUT INTO SERVICE AND THOSE PEOPLE TRAVELLING ON HONG KONG ISLAND, IN PARTICULAR IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT, WILL BE ABLE TO RIDE ON THESE NEW AND MORE COMFORTABLE BUSES."

MR SO ALSO NOTED THAT CMB HAD MADE SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS IN ITS SERVICES IN THE PAST FEW YEARS.

"CMB HAS MADE MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MAINTENANCE AND STANDARDS OF COMFORT AND CLEANLINESS OF ITS BUS FLEET IN RECENT YEARS. THE ACCIDENT RATE OF CMB BUSES HAS DROPPED SIGNIFICANTLY IN THE LAST FOUR YEARS. ITS BUSES ARE NOW RUNNING ON SCHEDULE AND BREAKDOWN RATE IS LOW. CMB BUSES ARE NOW MUCH CLEANER AND THE NUMBER OF PUBLIC COMPLAINTS ABOUT ITS STANDARDS OF SERVICE HAS DECLINED.

"THESE ARE CLEAR SIGNS OF THE COMPANY’S DETERMINATION TO DO EVERYTHING IT CAN TO IMPROVE ITS SERVICE TO Till' TRAVELLING PUBLIC," MR SO SAID.

MR SO SAID THAT SUCH IMPROVEMENTS ARE PARTICULARLY SIGNIFICANT BECAUSE THE PAST FEW YEARS HAVE NOT BEEN EASY FOR (’MB AS THE OPENING OF THE MTR ISLAND LINE HAD A SERIOUS IMPACT ON THE COMPANY’S OPERATION.

"THE COMPANY HAD TO TAKE MAJOR STEPS TO RATIONALISE ITS BUS ROUTES AS WELL AS ITS BUS FLEET IN ORDER TO ECONOMISE ITS OPERATION SO AS TO REDUCE THE EFFECT THIS IMPACT MIGHT HAVE ON CMB’S FARES."

-----0-----

KWUN TONG FESTIVE FORTNIGHT BEGINS *****

THE INCREASE IN FACILITIES FOR CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES IN KWUN TONG AND INCREASING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION WILL HELP BOOST COMMUNITY INTEGRATION, THE REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON), MR T.H. CHAU, SAID THIS (SUNDAY) MORNING.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL ’87 AT THE KOWLOON BAY RECREATION GROUND, MR CHAU SAID THE NEWLY-COMPLETED VENUE WAS AN ACHIEVEMENT OF THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME.

HE SAID THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD HAD PROVIDED VALUABLE INPUT DURING THE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION STAGES OF THE PROJECT, WHICH WAS GIVEN A HIGH PRIORITY IN THE URBAN COUNCIL WORKS PROGRAMME.

/’’THE MOVE

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1987

"THE MOVE HAS BROUGHT ABOUT EARLY COMPLETION OF THIS WELL-EQUIPPED RECREATION GROUND TO HELP MEET THE GREAT DEMAND LOCALLY FOR RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS FACILITIES," MR CHAU SAID.

HE SAID THE FACILITY WOULD PROVIDE KWUN TONG RESIDENTS WITH MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO TAKE PART IN HEALTHY RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES DURING THEIR LEISURE TIME, THUS HELPING TO BUILD A MORE BALANCED COMMUNITY.

EARLIER, IN HIS OPENING REMARKS, THE PRESIDENT OF THE SPORTS FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR YU SUN-SAY, POINTED OUT THAT THE FESTIVAL GAVE RESIDENTS OF ALL AGES A CHANCE OF HEALTHY EXERCISE AS WELL AS INSTILLING A SENSE OF DISTRICT BELONGING.

ALSO OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING WERE THE PRESIDENT OF THE AMATEUR SPORTS FEDERATION AND OLYMPIC COMMITTEE OF HONG KONG, MR A. DE O. SALES; KWUNG TONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDDY CHAN; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM HANG-FAI; ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (LEISURE SERVICES) OF URBAN SERVICES, MR ROBIN GILL; HONORARY PRESIDENT OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL '87; MR WONG WAH-SANG AND CHAIRMAN OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, MR RONNIE WONG.

TODAY’S PROGRAMMES INCLUDED LION AND DRAGON DANCES, A BRASS BAND PERFORMANCE, AN ATHLETIC MEET AND AN EQUESTRIAN SHOW WHICH WAS PRESENTED FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE DISTRICT SPORTS FESTIVAL.

THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL '87 IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD, DISTRICT OFFICE, URBAN COUNCIL AND THE KWUN TONG SPORTS PROMOTION ASSOICATION. IT HAS A BUGET OI- $500,000.

THE FORTNIGHT WILL PRESENT A RICH VARIETY OF SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING SPECIAL PROGRAMMES FOR THE DISABLED AND THE ELDERLY, IS BEING PRESENTED.

-------0 ---------

GUARD MACHINERY WARNING REITERATED * » ♦ * *

THE PROPRIETOR OF AN ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES FIVE PREVIOUS CONVICTIONS UNDER THE FACTORIES UNDERTAKINGS (GUARDING AND OPERATION OF MACHINERY) FINED $80,000 BY A CENTRAL MAGISTRATE RECENTLY.

FACTORY WHO HAD

AND INDUSTRIAL

REGULATIONS, WAS

THE CASE CAME TO LIGHT WHEN TWO OF HIS WORKERS HAD THEIR INDEX AND MIDDLE FINGERS AMPUTATED OR CRUSHED BY AN UNGUARDED POWER PRESS DURING SEPARATE INCIDENTS.

/INVESTIGATIONS BY

SUNDAY, NOVJMBER 8, 1987

8 -

INVESTIGATIONS BY THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT SHOWED THAT DESPITE REPEATED WARNINGS, THE DEFENDANT HAD FAILED TO GUARD THE RECIPROCATING TOOL AND DIES OF A MECHANICAL PRESS.

TN PASSING SENTENCE, THE MAGISTRATE SAID THE HEAVY FINE WAS IMPOSED TN VIEW OF THE BAD PREVIOUS CONVICTION RECORDS OF THE DEFENDANT. HE ALSO EXPRESSED HOPES THAT IT WOULD SERVE AS A DETERRENT TO OTHERS.

DURING THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF THIS YEAR, THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAD TAKEN OUT PROSECUTIONS AGAINST 191 PERSONS UNDER THE REGULATIONS RESULTING IN TOTAL FINES OF MORE THAN Si.6 MILLION BEING IMPOSED.

A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN NOTED THAT FACTORY PROPRIETORS OFTEN CHOSE NOT TO GUARD THEIR MACHINERY FOR THE SAKE OF CONVENIENCE.

BUT HE POINTED OUT THAT EVEN THE MOST RELIABLE AND CAREFUL OPERATIVE COULD MAKE MISTAKE, ESPECIALLY IN FAMILIAR WORK.

"MOREOVER, A MERE RELIANCE ON THE OPERATIVE’S TRAINING, SKILL OR CONSTANT ATTENTION IN SUBSTITUTION FOR EFFECTIVE GUARDING IS DANGEROUS BECAUSE HUMAN NATURE IS UNPREDICTABLE AND NOT CONSTANT," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.

HE STRONGLY ADVISED FACTORY PROPRIETORS TO TAKE IMMEDIATE STEPS IF THEY HAD NOT ALREADY DONE SO, TO EFFECTIVELY GUARD THE DANGEROUS PARTS OF THEIR MACHINERIES AS STIPULATED IN THE FIRST SCHEDULE OF THE REGULATIONS.

THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS ALSO PRODUCED A HANDBOOK ON GUARDING AND OPERATION OF MACHINERY WHICH IS AVAILABLE FREE AT ALL BRANCH OFFICES OF THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE DIVISION.

-----0------

COURSES FOR TECHNICAL SUBJECTS TEACHERS

*****

THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TECHNICAL DRAWING FOR DESKIN AND ON WORKSHOP LAYOUT FOR TECHNICAL

WILL CONDUCT A ONE-DAY COURSE ON TECHNOLOGY TEACHERS AND FOUR COURSES

TEACHERS.

THE COURSE ON DESIGN AND PLACE ON NOVEMBER 20 AT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT IN JUNCTION

TECHNOLOGY WORKSHOP LAYOUT WI’.L

TECHNICAL TEACHING CENTRE OF

ROAD, KOWLOON CITY.

TAKE

THE

/THE COURSE

THE COURSE AIMS AT PROVIDING TEACHERS WITH THE NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS IN WORKSHOP LAYOUT PLANNING, INCLUDING THE SPECIFICATIONS OF FURNITURE AND EQUIPMENT IN WOOD AND METAL WORKSHOPS, MACHINE LAYOUT IN RELATION TO A VARIETY OF BRAND MODELS BEING USED IN SCHOOLS AND THE INSTALLATION OF MACHINERY.

THE COURSES ON TECHNICAL DRAWING FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL TECHNICAL TEACHERS WILL BE HELD BETWEEN NOVEMBER 13 AND DECEMBER 11 AT THE TECHNICAL TEACHING CENTRE.

SCHOOLS WISHING TO NOMINATE THEIR TEACHERS TO ATTEND THESE COURSES ARE ADVISED TO FORWARD APPLICATIONS TO THE TECHNICAL SUBJECTS SECTION OF THE ADVISORY INSPECTORATE OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT IN ROOM 523, LEE GARDENS, HYSAN AVENUE, CAUSEWAY BAY, AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

0 - -

NORTH DISTRICT SEMINAR ON BUILDING MANAGEMENT

*****

A SEMINAR ON BUILDING MANAGEMENT PROBLEMS AND REMEDIAL MEASURES WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (MONDAY) EVENING AT THE NORTH DISTRICT COMMUNITY CENTRE, SHEUNG SHUI.

SPEAKING AT THE SEMINAR WILL BE THE HOUSING MANAGER OF THE EASTERN BUILDING MANAGEMENT CO-ORDINATION TEAM, MR LIN KA-TIN. OPEN DISCUSSION WILL FOLLOW.

ORGANISED BY THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE, THE SEMINAR IS THE FIRST OF A SERIES OF SEMINARS ORGANISED FOR THE DISTRICT'S 113 RESIDENT ASSOICATIONS WITH THE AIM OF ENHANCING KNOWLEDGE OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.

OTHER SEMINARS ON LEADERSHIP TRAINING, DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT, LAW AND ORDER IN THE DISTRICT AS WELL AS HOW TO CONDUCT A MEETING WILL BE HELD ON THREE CONSECUTIVE MONDAYS, STARTING ON NOVEMBER 16.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SEMINAR TOMORROW (MONDAY) AND THOSE ON NOVEMBER 16, 23 AND 30 AT 8.30 PM AT THE NORTH DISTRICT COMMUNITY CENTRE, LUNG SUM AVENUE, SHEUNG SHUI.

/10

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1987

* 10 -

COOKED FOOD CENTRES FOR MONG KOK, CENTRAL ♦ ♦ t ♦ »

WORK WILL SOON START ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF A TEMPORARY COOKED FOOD CENTRE IN MONQ KOK.

IT WILL OCCUPY A 200-SQUARE-METRE SITE AT THE JUNCTION OF SHANGHAI STREET AND NELSON STREET AND WILL ACCOMMODATE 20 ON-STREET COOKED FOOD STALLS.

THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAS AWARDED A $1.68 MILLION CONTRACT FOR THE WORK WHICH WILL TAKE ABOUT SIX MONTHS TO COMPLETE.

IN ADDITION, ANOTHER COOKED FOOD CENTRE WILL BE BUILT IN CENTRAL.

THE GOVERNMENT IS RESUMING A PRIVATE LOT WITH AN AREA OF ABOUT 43.3 SQUARE METRES AT NO. 11, HING LUNG STREET, FOR THIS PURPOSE.

A NOTICE ON THE RESUMPTION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED IN THE LATEST GOVERNMENT GAZETTE AND ALSO POSTED ON THE PROPERTY CONCERNED, WHICH WILL REVERT TO THE GOVERNMENT ON JANUARY 30, 1988.

------0-------

VISITS TO CENTRES FOR ELDERLY TN SAI KUNG » ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

ABOUT 400 ELDERLY PEOPLE FROM VILLAGES, MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY IN SAI KUNG DISTRICT WILL VISIT FOUR SUCH CENTRES BETWEEN NOVEMBER 10 AND 25.

THE FOUR CENTRES ARE THE SIK SIK YUEN HO KING CARE AND ATTENTION HOME, CHAM SHAN MONASTERY TZU TE HOME FOR THE AGED, YANG CHEN HOUSE AND TUNG SIN TAN HOME FOR THE AGED.

DURING THE VISITS, THE SENIOR RESIDENTS WILL BE BRIEFED ON THE HISTORY, FACILITIES AND ENTRY REQUIREMENTS OF THE CENTRES.

THE VISITS HAVE BEEN ORGANISED AS PART OF THIS YEAR’S SAI KUNG DISTRICT FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY.

THE FESTIVAL ALSO ENCOURAGES ELDERLY PEOPLE TO PARTICIPATE ACTIVELY IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND TO DEVELOP A SENSE OF BELONGING TO THE COMMUNITY.

VISITS BY VOLUNTEERS TO ABOUT 150 LONELY OLD PEOPLE WHO ARE LIVING IN THE VILLAGES HAVE ALSO BEEN ARRANGED.

-------0

/11.........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1987

- 11 -

ROAD SAFETY DAY DRAWS LARGE CROWD ***** *

THE ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT REACHED ITS CLIMAX TODAY (SUNDAY) WITH HUNDREDS OF RESIDENTS PARTICIPATING IN THE DISTRICT'S "ROAD SAFETY DAY” CARNIVAL AT WONG CHUK HANG.

THE PARTICIPANTS, YOUNG) AND OLD ALIKE, WERE INVITED TO LOOK OVER A VARIETY OF ROAD SAFETY PROGRAMMES INCLUDING A ROAD SAFETY TOWN AND A ROAD SAFETY BUS.

THE CARNIVAL ALSO FEATURED PERFORMANCES BY SINGERS, CHINESE MARTIAL ART SHOW, AND A VARIETY OF GAME STALLS, ALL OF WHICH WERE DESIGNED TO PUT ACROSS ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES.

THE "SOUTHERN DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY DAY" CARNIVAL WAS ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE POLICE. IT WAS SPONSORED BY THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD.

AT THE OPENING OF THE ROAD SAFETY DAY, THE ACTING SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MISS OLIVIA NIP, AND THE POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER (WESTERN), MR E.J. STEVENSON, OFFICIATED AT AN EYE-DOTTING CEREMONY FOR A LION-DANCE.

OTHER GUESTS INCLUDED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE, MR MAN HON-MING; SENIOR STAFF OFFICER/TRAFFIC/HK ISLAND, MR LIONEL LAM; REGIONAL COMMANDER (KOWLOON), ROAD SAFETY PATROL, MR STEVE II.W. LAU; AND COMPANY SECRETARY, CHINA MOTOR BUS CO, LTD, MR WONG WlNG-KEUNG.

DURING THE FUNCTION, WINNERS OF THE ROAD SAFETY SLOGAN COMPETITION HELD LAST MOMTH WERE AWARDED TROPHIES AND CASH PRIZES.

--------0----------

CENTRAL, WESTERN SPORT FESTIVAL BEGINS ♦ ♦ * t i

THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT SPORT FESTIVAL WAS LAUNCHED WITH A NUMBER OF ENTERTAINING ACTIVITIES AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT THIS (SUNDAY) AFTERNOON.

THESE INCLUDED A LION DANCE, TAI-CHI DEMONSTRATIONS, DANCING GAMES FOR FAMILIES AND CELEBRITIES AND A ’’TREASURE HUNT”.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR LAM KAM-KWONG, SAID THE PROGRAMMES FOR THIS YEAR WOULD CATER FOR THE INTERESTS AND NEEDS OF DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS.

/HE SAID

SUNDAY, NOVIXBER 8, 198?

- 12 -

HE SAID MORE THAN 10,000 RESIDENTS HAD TAKEN PART IN THE LAST FESTIVAL HELD THREE YEARS AGO AND HE URGED MORE PEOPLE TO PARTICIPATE SO AS TO ENJOY A HEALTHIER MODE OF LIVING.

OTHER GUESTS PRESENT WERE THE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR VINCENT KO, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS ASSOCIATION, MR LEUNG SIK-WAH.

THE THREE-WEEK FESTIVAL WILL OFFER ACTIVITIES INCLUDING AN EXPEDITION FOR THE ELDERLY, A "DANCING AT SEA" CRUISE FOR YOUTH, RECREATION CAMP FOR AREA COMMITTEES, A WALKATHON ROUND THE PEAK, BASKETBALL AND FOOTBALL COMPETITION, AN ATHLETICS MEET AND ORIENTEERING GAMES.

THE FESTIVAL IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICE, URBAN COUNCIL AND THE DISTRICT'S RECREATION AND SPORTS ASSOCIATION WltH SPONSORSHIP OF MORE THAN >110,000 FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD AND THE WESTERN DISTRICT JUNIOR POLICE CALL ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE.

ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE VARIOUS ACTIVITIES MAY BE MADE ON 5-416405.

-------o ---------

INSTALLATION OF SYNCROLIFT AT TAI KOK TSUI PROPOSED

*****

THE GOVERNMENT INTENDS TO AUTHORISE THE HONG KONG AND YAUMATI FERRY COMPANY LIMITED TO INSTALL A SYNCROLIFT AT TAI KOK TSUI.

THE LOCATION IS WITHIN AN AREA OF ABOUT 1,020 SQUARE METRES OF FORESHORE AND SEA-BED ADJOINING A FRONTING AT LOK KWAN STREET.

TAKING ABOUT SIX MONTHS TO COMPLETE, THE INSTALLATION OF THE SYNCROLIFT IS TO FACILITATE THE LIFTING OF VESSELS INTO THE SHIPYARD ON THE LOT.

THE EXTENT OF THE AREA AFFECTED HAS BEEN DESCRIBED TN A NOTICE PUBLISHED IN THE LATEST GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.

ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HE HAS AN INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEA-BED INVOLVED MAY SUBMIT A WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS BEFORE JANUARY 5, 1988.

THE NOTICE TOGETHER WITH ITS RELATED PLAN CAN BE SEEN ON NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITE.

THE PLAN CAN ALSO BE VIEWED AT THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT’S SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, 5TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG; THE MONG KOK DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, TUNG PING BUILDING, PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST, KOWLOON; AND AT THE MONG KOK DISTRICT OFFICE TAI KOK TSUI SUB-OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, TAI CHUNG LAU, COSMOPOLITAN ESTATE, IVY STREET, TAI KOK TSUI, KOWLOON.

-------O --------

/13 .......

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1987

- 15 -

TUEN MUN WATER CUT

* » «

FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME TUEN MUN PREMISES WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 10 PM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 11) TO 8 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY BECAUSE OF MAINS WORK.

THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT A SECTION OF CASTLE PEAK ROAD BETWEEN FU TEI AND SHUN FUNG WAI, FU TEI SHEUNG TSUEN, FU TEI TSUEN, FU TEI CHUNG TSUEN, SAN HING TSUEN, LAM TEI, LAM TEI SAN TSUEN, LAM TEI ROAD, TO YUEN WAI, TUEN TSZ WAI, TSING CHUEN WAT, FUK HANG ROAD, YICK YUEN, NAI WAI AND SHUN FUNG WAI.

-----o------

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN WANG TAU HOM

*****

TO FACILITATE THE LAYING OF WATER MAINS, THE SOUTH-BOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF WANG TAU HOM EAST ROAD BETWEEN FU MEI STREET AND WANG TAU HOM CENTRAL ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC DAILY BE1WEEN 12.30 AM AND 5.30 AM FROM WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 11) TO FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 13).

DURING THE CLOSURE, VEHICLES TRAVELLING ON FU MEI STREET WEST-BOUND HEADING FOR WANG TAU HOM EAST ROAD WILL BE DIVERTED VIA FU KEUNG STREET AND WANG TAU HOM CENTRAL ROAD.

- - 0 -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 198?

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL GETS APPROVAL ..... 1

REHABILITATION SERVICES TO BE FURTHER DEVELOPED .......... 2

2ND QUARTER CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT STATISTICS RELEASED ...... 3

LEO KWAN HEADS NEW CNTA TEAM ............................. 5

SIGNIFICANT EXPANSION OF CULTURAL FACILITIES ............. 5

GOVERNOR PRESENTS INSIGNIA ............................... 7

ADVICE ON CODING FOR IMPORTERS, EXPORTERS ................ 11

NEW FIRE STATIONS AT KOTEWALL ROAD, CHEUNG CHAU .......... 13

TUEN MUN FESTIVAL OPENS .................................. 13

BRIEFING FOR NT DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS ................... 14

MANPOWER SURVEY ON EDP INDUSTRY BEGINS ................... 15

APPLICATION FOR PARTICIPATION IN ADVANCED LEVEL EXaM ..... 15

IMPROVEMENT TO HAWKER BAZAAR ON «GENDA.................... 16

DB CCMMITTEE TO MEET ON FUNDING MATTERS .................. 16

WAN CHaI CCMMITTEE TO DISCUSS TRAFFIC PROBLEMS ........... 17

ISLANDS DISTRICT TO HOLD FESTIVAL......................... 17

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN MONG KOK ....................... 18

WATER STORAGE FIGURE...................................... 18

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL GETS APPROVAL

*****

THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS AGREED IN PRINCIPLE THAT AN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL SHOULD BE SET UP IN HONG KONG.

ANNOUNCING THIS TODAY (MONDAY), A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE SETTING UP OF THE COUNCIL WOULD REPRESENT A SIGNIFICANT STEP FORWARD IN THE PROMOTION OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH IN HONG KONG.

"IT WILL ADD FURTHER IMPETUS TO THE VOLUNTARY SAFETY MOVEMENT THAT HAS BEEN GAINING MOMENTUM SINCE THE SETTING UP OF THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD’S COMMITTEE ON INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION (NOW RE-NAMED THE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE) IN 1978,” HE SAID.

THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL WILL BE AN INDEPENDENT STATUTORY BODY WITH ITS OWN STAFF TO CARRY OUT ITS FUNCTIONS, WHICH WILL COVER FOUR AREAS: EDUCATION AND TRAINING; INFORMATION AND PUBLICITY; CONSULTANCY SERVICES; AND RESEARCH.

IT WILL CONSIST OF A CHAIRMAN AND NOT MORE THAN 20 MEMBERS, TO BE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR, REPRESENTING EMPLOYERS, EMPLOYEES, PROFESSIONAL AND ACADEMIC INTERESTS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.

THE COUNCIL WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR DEVELOPING PROGRAMMES WITHIN ITS POWERS AND DUTIES FOR RAISING STANDARDS OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH, NOT ONLY IN INDUSTRY BUT IN ALL AREAS OF EMPLOYMENT.

"THE COUNCIL WILL HAVE A BUDGET OF ABOUT *5 MILLION FOR ITS FIRST YEAR, WITH EXPENDITURE IN FUTURE YEARS BEING SUBJECT TO REVIEW IN THE LIGHT OF THE COUNCIL’S DEVELOPMENT," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

"WE HOPE TO GET THE COUNCIL STARTED IN 1988," HE ADDED.

FOLLOWING THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL’S DECISION, THE GOVERNMENT WILL NOW HOLD DISCUSSIONS WITH THE VARIOUS PARTIES CONCERNED ON THE DETAILS OF THE FUNDING OF THE COUNCIL, WHICH WILL BE BY MEANS OF A LEVY ON EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE PREMIA.

MEANWHILE, WORK ON DRAFTING THE NECESSARY LEGISLATION TO ESTABLISH THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL IS UNDERWAY.

-------0----------

/2........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

- 2 -

REHABILITATION SERVICES TO BE FURTHER DEVELOPED * » * * »

THE GOVERNMENT is COMMITTED TO THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF REHABILITATION SERVICES DESPITE THE MANY ACHIEVEMENTS MADE IN THE LAST 10 YEARS, THE COMMISSIONER FOR REHABILITATION, MR FRANCIS HO, SAID THIS (MONDAY) MORNING.

SPEAKING AT THE FIRST EAST-ASIA AND PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE WORLD BLIND UNION, MR HO SAID THAT AS FAR AS MULTI-DISCIPLINARY ASSESSMENT SERVICES WERE CONCERNED, SIX CHILD ASSESSMENT CENTRES WOULD BE COMPLETED FROM NOW UP TO 1991-92.

"IN SPECIAL EDUCATION, THE PROVISION OF SCHOOL PLACES FOR THE DISABLED IS GENERALLY ADEQUATE WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED BUT THE SHORTFALL IN SUCH AN AREA IS EXPECTED TO BE FULLY MET BY 1991-92 THROUGH THE PROVISION OF 1,320 PLACES FOR VARIOUS GRADES OF MENTAL HANDICAP," HE SAID.

MR HO SAID THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION WOULD BE FURTHER IMPROVED WITH BETTER TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPECIALIST SERVICES TO IMPROVE TEACHING AND A GOOD EXAMPLE OF THIS WAS THE THREE-YEAR LOCAL COURSE IN SPEECH THERAPY TO START AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG IN 1988.

"ON PRE-SCHOOL SERVICES," HE SAID, "THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE WORKING PARTY ON PRE-SCHOOL CARE, EDUCATION AND TRAINING OF DISABLED CHILDREN ARE BEING IMPLEMENTED AND 1,490 PLACES IN EARLY EDUCATION AND TRAINING CENTRES, SPECIAL CHILD CARE CENTRES AND KINDERGARTENS WILL BE PROVIDED IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS UP TO 1991-92."

SIMILARLY, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT HAS PLANS TO INCREASE SOCIAL REHABILITATION PROVISIONS IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS: 550 HALF-WAY HOUSE PLACES, 750 RESIDENTIAL PLACES FOR THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED, 2,015 SHELTERED WORKSHOP PLACES AND 940 WORK ACTIVITY CENTRE PLACES.

ANOTHER 700 PLACES IN SKILL CENTRES WILL BE PROVIDED BY THE TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND INDUSTRIAL TRAINING DEPARTMENT.

MR HO SAID FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR DISABLED PEOPLE REQUIRING CONSTANT ATTENDANCE WOULD BE DOUBLED OVER THE NEXT THREE YEARS TO COVER ALL AGE BRACKETS.

"A QUEEN ELIZABETH FOUNDATION FOR THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED WILL BE SET UP SOON BY STATUTE TO FURTHER THE WELFARE, EDUCATION AND TRAINING OF THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED.

"TOWARDS THE END OF THE YEAR, A REHABILITATION ENGINEERING CENTRE WILL START OPERATION IN THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC TO PROVIDE APPLIED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ON TECHNICAL AIDS FOR THE DISABLED AND ON THE APPLICATION OF TECHNOLOGY IN REHABILITATION," HE SAID.

/OUTLINING THE

MONDAY, NOVQfBER 9, 1987

- 3 -

OUTLINING THE DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG’S REHABILITATION SERVICES, MR HO SAID THAT THE GOVERNMENT, AFTER EXTENSIVE CONSULTATION WITH THE COMMUNITY AND THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR, PUBLISHED A WHITE PAPER IN 1977 SETTING OUT THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY ON REHABILITATION AND THE FUTURE DIRECTION, TASKS AND OBJECTIVES OF REHABILITATION SERVICES.

"THEREAFTER THE GOVERNMENT’S PROGRAMME ON REHABILITATION HAS DEVELOPED SYSTEMATICALLY THROUGH REGULAR UPDATING, REVIEW AND REVISION OF THE REHABILITATION PROGRAMME PLAN WHICH COVERS A PLANNING PERIOD OF 10 YEARS ON A ROLL-ON BASIS," HE SAID.

"A MAJOR REVIEW OF THE REHABILITATION PROGRAMME PLAN IS NOW UNDER WAY," HE ADDED.

MR HO ALSO PAID TRIBUTE TO THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE NON-GOVERNMENT VOLUNTARY SECTOR WHICH HAD CARRIED MUCH OF THE BURDEN OF REHABILITATION DURING THIS REMARKABLE PERIOD OF DEVELOPMENT.

"THE ROLE PLAYED BY THE VOLUNTARY ORGANISATION IN THIS FIELD NEEDS TO BE STRESSED, FOR IT IS THEIR DEVOTION AND COMMITMENT WHICH ARE LARGELY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND EXPANSION OF MANY OF THE SERVICES AVAILABLE TO THE DISABLED," HE SAID.

HOWEVER, MR HO POINTED OUT THAT THERE WERE INEVITABLY GAPS IN SERVICES AND THE GOVERNMENT AND THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR HAD MUCH TO PUT IN HAND IN THE YEARS TO COME.

"DEMAND HAS INCREASED AND IS INCREASING BECAUSE OF THE GROWTH IN THE SIZE OF THE POPULATION AND ITS DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS, CHANGING DISEASE PATTERN OF THE POPULATION, HIGHER ASPIRATION FOR QUALITY OF SERVICES AS A RESULT OF THE GROWING AFFLUENCE OF HONG KONG, AND BECAUSE MORE DISABLED PEOPLE ARE PREPARED TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP, ADVICE AND SERVICES," HE SAID.

------0-------

2ND QUARTER CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT STATISTICS RELEASED *****

THE TOTAL GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY ALL CONTRACTORS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987 AMOUNTED TO $11,941 MILLION, WHICH WAS 1.4 PER CENT HIGHER THAN THE PRECEDING QUARTER AND 26.7 PER CENT HIGHER THAN THE SAME QUARTER OF 1986, ACCORDING TO THE RESULTS OF THE QUARTERLY SURVEY OF CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT RELEASED TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.

CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS (INCLUDING WORK CARRIED OUT AT CONSTRUCTION SITES, AT ERECTED BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES, AND AT OTHER MINOR WORK LOCATIONS) IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987 WAS $7,403 MILLION, WHICH WAS 1.0 PER CENT LOWER THAN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER BUT 21.7 PER CENT HIGHER THAN THE SAME QUARTER OF 1986. THIS GAVE AN INDEX OF 112.4. THE QUARTERLY AVERAGE OF 1982 WAS TAKEN AS 100 FOR THE INDEX.

/THE FIGURES

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

THE FIGURES FOR MAIN CONTRACTORS ARE FREE FROM THE EFFECT OF DOUPLE-COUNTING OF CONSTRUCTION VALUE DUE TO THE SUB-CONTRACTING PRACTICE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY. THEY ARE, THEREFORE, DIFFERENT FROM THE FIGURES ON CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY ALL CONTRACTORS.

THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS AT CONSTRUCTION SITES IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987 AMOUNTED TO $5,577 MILLION. THIS WAS 3.4 PER CENT LOWER THAN THE PRECEDING QUARTER BUT 17.4 PER CENT HIGHER THAN THE SAME QUARTER OF 1986. OF THIS GROSS VALUE, $1,771 MILLION WAS CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT OF PUBLIC PROJECTS, REPRESENTING A DECREASE OF 9.6 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING QUARTER BUT AN INCREASE OF 16.2 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE SAME QUARTER OF 1986. IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR, THE CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT AT SITES, AT $3,806 MILLION, WAS ABOUT THE SAME AS THE PRECEDING QUARTER BUT HAD INCREASED BY 17.9 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE SAME QUARTER OF 1986.

THE OUTPUT VALUE OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS (WHICH INCLUDE COMBINED RESIDENTIAL AND NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS) IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987 WAS $2,679 MILLION. THIS REPRESENTED INCREASES OF 1.7 PER CENT AND 8.5 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING QUARTER AND THE SAME QUARTER OF 1986 RESPECTIVELY.

THE OUTPUT VALUE OF COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS WAS $703 MILLION, REPRESENTING A DECREASE OF 9.8 PER CENT IN COMPARISON WITH THE PRECEDING QUARTER BUT A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE OF 48.3 PER CENT OVER THE SAME QUARTER OF 1986.

THE OUTPUT VALUE OF INDUSTRIAL AND STORAGE BUILDINGS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987 WAS $508 MILLION, WHICH WAS 1.6 PER CENT AND 5.4 PER CENT HIGHER THAN THE PRECEDING QUARTER AND THE SAME QUARTER OF 1986 RESPECTIVELY.

THE OUTPUT VALUE OF TRANSPORT PROJECTS WAS $870 MILLION, WHICH WAS 5.9 PER CENT BELOW THE PRECEDING QUARTER BUT 97.3 PER CENT ABOVE THE SAME QUARTER OF 1986. THE SIGNIFICANT INCREASE OVER THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR WAS A RESULT OF THE PARTICULARLY LOW OUTPUT VALUE OF TRANSPORT PROJECTS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1986, AT $441 MILLION, AFTER THE COMPLETION OF THE FINAL STAGE OF THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY ISLAND LINE PROJECT WHILE NEW PROJECTS SUCH AS THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING HAD NOT YET BEEN STARTED AT THAT TIME.

MORE DETAILED INFORMATION ON CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT IS GIVEN IN THE "REPORT ON THE QUARTERLY SURVEY OF CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT, 2ND QUARTER 1987" RELEASED TODAY BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.

THE QUARTERLY SURVEY REPORT IS PRICED AT $2 A COPY. PURCHASES MAY BE MADE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILIDNG, CONNAUGHT PLACE, OR AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES COUNTER, WANCHAI TOWER 1, 19/F, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI. REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION MAY ALSO BE ARRANGED.

ENQUIRIES FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE SURVEY MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND REAL ESTATE STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON 5-8234860.

-------0 ---------

/5........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

- 5 -

LEO KWAN HEADS NEW CNTA TEAM » ♦ *

THE NEWLY APPOINTED DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES (SPECIAL DUTIES) OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, MR LEO KWAN, TOOK UP OFFICE ON NOVEMBER 5, A CNTA SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

HE HAD PREVIOUSLY BEEN SECONDED TO THE INDEPENDENT SURVEY OFFICE AS ITS DEPUTY COMMISSIONER. BEFORE THAT HE WAS THE DISTRICT OFFICER OF SHA TIN.

MR KWAN WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR CO-ORDINATING ALL GOVERNMENT ACTIVITIES IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL SCHEME FOLLOWING THE RECENT PASSAGE OF THE WASTE DISPOSAL (AMENDMENT) BILL IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

HE WILL ALSO CHAIR A CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE ON LIVESTOCK WASTE DISPOSAL WHICH WILL INCLUDE REPRESENTATIVES OF RELEVANT GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND FARMERS’ REPRESENTATIVES.

"THIS COMMITTEE WILL SERVE AS A FORMAL COMMUNICATION CHANNEL BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND LIVESTOCK FARMERS," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.

MR KWAN IS NOW STUDYING DIFFERENT ASPECTS RELATED TO THE LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL SCHEME AND IS PLANNING HIS WORK SCHEDULE.

-------o - - - -

SIGNIFICANT EXPANSION OF CULTURAL FACILITIES

*****

HONG KONG IS NOW TAKING ITS RIGHTFUL PLACE AS AN IMPORTANT CULTURAL CENTRE IN THE REGION, THE SECRETARY FOR MUNICIPAL SERVICES, MR A.K. CHUI, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

EXPLAINING THE ORGANISATION AND ROLE OF HIS BRANCH AT A MEET-THE-MEDIA SESSION, MR CHUI SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY WAS TO PROMOTE APPRECIATION OF, AND PARTICIPATION IN, CULTURAL AND ARTISTIC ACTIVITIES.

"THIS POLICY EMPHASISES THE DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL TALENT AND LOCAL PROFESSIONAL PERFORMING COMPANIES AS WELL AS THE PROVISION OF SUITABLE FACILITIES IN WHICH THEY CAN PERFORM," HE SAID.

OVER THE LAST DECADE THERE HAD BEEN A SIGNIFICANT EXPANSION IN SUCH FACILITIES, HE SAID. NEW CONCERT HALLS AND THEATRES, INCLUDING NEW TOWN HALLS IN TSUEN WAN, SHA TIN AND TUEN MUN, HAD BEEN PROVIDED THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY BY THE GOVERNMENT AND THE TWO MUNICIPAL COUNCILS.

/"IN ADDITION,

MONDAY, NOV JUBER 9, 1987

"IN ADDITION, PHASE II OF THE CULTURAL CENTRE IN TSIM SHA TSUI WILL BE OPENED IN MID-1989," HE SAID. "BY THEN WE SHALL HAVE AS MANY AS 21,000 THEATRE AND CONCERT HALL SEATS AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY. THIS IS NOT COUNTING THE HONG KONG COLISEUM AND THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM WHICH ARE ALSO SOMETIMES USED FOR SUCH PERFORMANCE.

"WE ARE FORTUNATE THAT WE ALREADY HAVE A GREAT DEAL OF LOCAL TALENT AND MANY LOCAL COMPANIES PERFORMING AT A HIGH STANDARD : EXAMPLES INCLUDE THE HONG KONG PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA, THE CHUNG YING THEATRE AND THE HONG KONG BALLET. WE MUST CONTINUE TO DEVELOP SUCH TALENT TO MAKE THE BEST USE OF OUR FACILITIES AND TO ATTRACT WIDER AUDIENCES.

"EARLIER THIS YEAR, THE GOVERNOR PRESIDED OVER THE FIRST GRADUATION CEREMONY OF THE ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS. THE APA WILL £OON BE PRODUCING MORE PROFESSIONAL PERFORMERS AND TEACHERS TO MAKE THEIR OWN CONTRIBUTION TO THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ARTS.

"WHILE DEVELOPING OUR OWN TALENT WE MUST NOT FORGET THE NEED TO ATTRACT TO HONG KONG THE HIGHEST QUALITY PERFORMERS FROM OVERSEAS. THIS HAS ALREADY BEEN HAPPENING ON AN INCREASING SCALE IN RECENT YEARS. THE PROGRAMMES AND ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS PLAY A MAJOR ROLE, BOTH IN THIS RESPECT AND IN PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL PERFORMERS."

IN ADDITION, THE HONG KONG ARTS FESTIVAL, WHICH HAD TAKEN PLACE EVERY YEAR SINCE 1972, AND WHICH THE GOVERNMENT CONTINUED TO HELP FUND, HAD BECOME FIRMLY ESTABLISHED AS A SIGNIFICANT EVENT IN THE INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL CALENDAR.

MR CHUI POINTED OUT THAT ANOTHER AREA OF PARTICULAR IMPORTANCE, ESPECIALLY TO YOUNG PEOPLE, WAS SPORTS AND OUTDOOR RECREATION.

THE GOVERNMENT, THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS AND NUMEROUS VOLUNTARY SPORTS BODIES AND ASSOCIATIONS ALL PLAYED ACTIVE AND IMPORTANT ROLES IN PROMOTING AND DEVELOPING SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES, BOTH FOR MASS PARTICIPATION AND FOR THE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE.

THIS FINANCIAL YEAR, INCREASING SUPPORT AND TECHNICAL ADVICE 'WOULD BE GIVEN TO SPORTS BODIES TO HELP PEOPLE TAKE PART IN SPORTS *AND RECREATIONAL EVENTS, BOTH IN THE TERRITORY AND OVERSEAS, HE SAID. THE COUNCIL FOR RECREATION AND SPORTS AND THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS PLANNED TO PROVIDE BETWEEN THEM OVER <37 MILLION THIS YEAR TO FUND A VARIETY OF EVENTS.

MR CHUI ADDED! "WE CAN BE PROUD OF THE FACT THAT HONG KONG NOW HAS A REMARKABLE RANGE OF SPORTS FACILITIES. WE HAVE 19 FULL-SIZR PUBLIC SWIMMING POOL COMPLEXES - AND FOUR MORE ARE UNDER CONSTRUCTION. WE HAVE 27 MULTI-PURPOSE GAMES HALLS, WITH FACILITIES FOR BASKETBALL, VOLLEYBALL, BADMINTON, SQUASH AND FITNESS ROOMS. AS MANY AS 26 MORE ARE UNDER CONSTRUCTION.

"AND WE HAVE THE COLISEUM AND QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM WHICH ARE USED FOR LARGE SCALE INDOOR SPORTING AND RECREATIONAL EVENTS," MR CHUI SAID.

- - 0

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

- 7 -

GOVERNOR PRESENTS INSIGNIA

* » »

INSIGNIA FOR 87 PEOPLE WERE PRESENTED BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AT A CEREMONY AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE THIS (MONDAY) EVENING.

EIGHTY-FIVE RECIPIENTS WERE DECORATED BY THE QUEEN FOR SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC, WHILE TWO WERE AWARDED THE GOVERNOR’S COMMENDATION.

THE FOLLOWING IS THE LIST OF INSIGNIA RECIPIENTS:

CBE

THE HON JOHN JOSEPH SWAINE THE HON WONG PO-YAN

OBE

MR CHAU CHAM-SON

MR LI FOOK-HING MR CHARLES CHO-CHIU SIN PROFESSOR ROSIE YOUNG TSE-TSE

OBE (HON)

REV. FR. FRANCISCO LERDA

ISO

MR KUO KETCHEN, STEPHEN MR WONG KWOK-CHOU

MBE

MR TOMMY KIMMIN CHOY

MR CHUI KWONG MR JAMES KUNG MR PANG CHING-KONG

MBE (MIL)

MAJOR GLYNDWR BRIAN WATKINS

/BEM

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

BEM

MR CHAN KEE-YEUNG MR CHAN TSIP MR CHAN TZE-KWONO MR CHAU TIN-KWAI MR HUI MAN-KAM MR LAM PUI-TIN MR LAU KAN-PUI MR LAU YUNG-SUM MR LEE CHE-MINO MR LI YUEN-TINO MR LING KAM-SHINO MRS SHA NG SIU-HING MR SO PAK-LAM MR TSUI SO MR WONG HOO-YING

BEM (MIL)

LANCE SERGEANT MARK LESLIE BRIGGS

ISM

MR CHAN YUM

MR LEUNG KAM-CHUEN

MR NG KWOK-WAH

MR YIP CHEUK-YIN

QPM

ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE

MR DONALD MCFARLANE WATSON

MR FREDERIC SAMUEL MCCOSH

QFSM

MR JOHN ASHTON BREDBURY

/CPM .......

MONDAY, NOVFNBER 9, 19^7

CPM

ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE

MR PETER WILKIN FERRY MR ROBERT ANTHONY ALLEN MR DANIEL GEORGE ROBINSON MR CHRISTOPHER JOHN BOSWELL MR TSUI SUI-CHEUNG MR CHAN KWONG MR LAU HON-HUNG MR CHAN YAT-KWONG MR KEUNG LUN-CHIU MR TSANG KANG-PING MR LI MING MR TANG HEI-KWONG MR WAT TSAN-HUNG

FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT

MR CHAN WAH-DING MR YIP LUN-CHEUNG MR CHEUNG CHAN-CHUNG MR TSUI WING-KUI MR CHAN KAM-SHUEN

BADGE OF HONOUR

MRS ANITA CHAN FOK PO-CHUN MR CHAN LAI-SANG MS HELEN CHEN KWOK-YING MR FU YUEN-HUNG MR FUNG KWONG-CHUNG MR KU SZE-CHUNG MR JASPER LAM KWOK-KWONG MR LEE CHI-KWONG MR DAVID LEUNG CHUNG-POR MR TAO MAN-KWONG MRS TSE LING SUK-YIN MR WONG KWOK-CHOI MR LARRY YEH FU-YAO MRS BETTY YUNG MA SHAN-YEB

/GOVERNOR’S COMMENDATION

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9» 198?

GOVERNOR’S COMMENDATION

MR KENNETH JAMES TAYLOR MR CHENG CHUN-WA

ORDER OF ST JOHN

OFFICER SISTER

MISS WOO MO-PING

OFFICER BROTHER

MR HO PING-CHIU MR TAM LOK-SANG

SERVING SISTER

MRS KWAN SIU LAI-KWAN DR LEE YUEN-WAN MISS LO LAU-YUNO

SERVING BROTHER

DR THOMAS LEE TAN-YANG DR MA CHING-HING MR TUNG WAI-KUEN MR LAU SAI-YAN MR NG CHAN-LAM MR CHEUNG KUEN MR CHOW CHIU-SUM MR CHU NING MR LIU KING-WAH DR MO KAM-CHUEN

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

- 11 -

advice on Coding for importers, exporters * * * * *

IMPORTERS AND "EXPORTERS WILL HAVE TO PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THE CODING OF GOODS AS THEY COMPLETE IMPORT AND EXPORT DECLARATIONS IN JANUARY NEXT YEAR WHEN HONG KONG SWITCHES TO A NEW COMMODITY CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM, THE HONG KONG HARMONIZED COMMODITY DESCRIPTION AND CODING SYSTEM (HK HS).

THE NEW SYSTEM, WHICH WILL REPLACE THE PRESENT STANDARD INTERNATIONAL TRADE CLASSIFICATION (SITC), REVISION 2, IS BASED ON THE "HARMONIZED COMMODITY DESCRIPTION AND CODING SYSTEM" IHS) DEVELOPED BY THE CUSTOMS CO-OPERATION COUNCIL IN BRUSSELS.

THE HS HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO PROVIDE A MULTI-PURPOSE NOMENCLATURE THAT CAN SUIT THE NEEDS OF CUSTOMS AND STATISTICAL AUTHORITIES ROUND THE WORLD AS WELL AS ALL THOSE CONCERNED WITH WORLD TRADE. IT "HARMONIZES" A VARIETY OF CUSTOMS, STATISTICAL AND TRANSPORT NOMENCLATURES USED TN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE WORLD. IN PARTICULAR, THE SITC AND THE CUSTOMS CO-OPERATION COUNCIL NOMENCLATURE, THE TWO MOST WIDELY ADOPTED INTERNATIONAL NOMENCLATURES FOR TRADE STATISTICS AND CUSTOMS TARIFF PURPOSES, HAVE BEEN CONSIDERED IN THE DESIGN OF THE IIS. »

"AT PRESENT, DIFFERENT COUNTRIES MAY CLASSIFY A PARTICULAR TYPE OF GOODS UNDER DIFFERENT NAMES, MAKING IT DIFFICULT FOR INTERNATIONAL COMPARISONS. THE HS WILL ENSURE THAT COUNTRIES ADOPTING THE HS WOULD CLASSIFY THE PRODUCTS BY REFERENCE TO THE SAME CLASSIFICATION AND CODING SYSTEM. THIS WILL MAKE IT MUCH EASIER TO ANALYSE AND MONITOR TRADE IN PARTICULAR PRODUCTS," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT SAID.

"THE INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION OF THE HS WILL HELP REDUCE EXPENSES INCURRED IN REDESCRIBING, RE-CLASSIFYING AND RECORDING GOODS UNDER VARIOUS CLASSIFICATION SYSTEMS WHEN GOODS ARE TRANSPORTED BETWEEN COUNTRIES. IT WILL ALSO FACILITATE THE COMPARISON OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE STATISTICS AND REDUCE UNCERTAINTY IN THE NEGOTIATION AND INTERPRETATION OF TRADE AGREEMENTS."

* I

THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT MOST MAJOR TRADING PARTNERS OF HONG KONG, INCLUDING THE EEC COUNTRIES AND JAPAN ARE PREPARED TO ADOPT THE HS WITH THE TARGET IMPLEMENTATION DATE SET ON JANUARY 1, 1988. THE UNITED STATES ALSO PLANS TO ADOPT THE HS IN 1988, SUBJECT TO RATIFICATION >Y THE l». S. CONGRESS.

"AS IT IS IMPORTANT TO PROVIDE LOCAL TRADERS WITH A COMMON CUSTOMS TERMINOLOGY FOR THEIR EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATIONS WITH OVERSEAS SUPPLIERS AND BUYERS, HONG KONG HAS DECIDED TO FOLLOW SUIT, ADOPTING THE' HS AFTER SUITABLE ADAPTATION TO SUIT LOCAL NEEDS.

/"TO PREPARE

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

- 12 -

"TO PREPARE FOR THE CHANGEOVER TO THE NEW SYSTEM, THE GOVERNMENT HAS UNDERTAKEN VARIOUS TASKS WHICH INCLUDE REVISING THE HONG KONG IMPORTS AND EXPORTS CLASSIFICATION LIST, MODIFYING THE COMPUTERISED TRADE STATISTICS SYSTEM, AMENDING THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (REGISTRATION) REGULATIONS AND PLANNING A WIDE RANGE OF PUBLICITY AND TRAINING ACTIVITIES.

"THE HK HS WILL COMPRISE SOME 5,500 EIGHT-DIGIT CODES, EACH DENOTING A PARTICULAR TYPE Of- GOOD. THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE OVER THE PRESENT SITC-BASED SYSTEM WHICH CONSISTS OF ABOUT 3.600 SIX-DIGIT CODES.

"THE NEW SYSTEM CONTAINS 97 CHAPTERS WHICH ARE GROUPED UNDER 22 SECTIONS. AS A GENERAL RULE, THE SYSTEM ARRANGES COMMODITIES IN ORDER OF THEIR DEGREE OF MANUFACTURE : RAW MATERIALS, UNWORKED PRODUCTS, SEMI-FINISHED PRODUCTS AND FINISHED PRODUCTS. FOR EXAMPLE THE INITIAL CHAPTERS COVER LIVE ANIMALS AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS WHILE THE LAST CHAPTERS COVER INDUSTRIAL AND HIGH-TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS," THE SPOKESMAN CONTINUED.

"ONCE THE NEW SYSTEM IS IMPLEMENTED, IMPORTERS AND EXPORTERS WILL HAVE TO LOOK UP,THE NEW HK HS CODE FOR A PARTICULAR TYPE OF GOOD FROM A NEW CLASSIFICATION LIST WHEN COMPLETING IMPORT AND EXPORT DECLARATION FORMS. THE JOB IS NOT DIFFICULT AT ALL AS AN ALPHABETICAL LIST OF ARTICLES IN HK HS CODES AND A CORRELATION TABLE BETWEEN THE SITC AND THE HK HS CODES ARE PROVIDED TO HELP TRADERS SEARCHING FOR THE CORRECT HK HS CODES AND TO MAKE CROSS-REFERENCE.

"ALSO, AN HS HANDBOOK HAS BEEN COMPILED TO HELP IMPORTERS AND EXPORTERS IN USING THE NEW CLASSIFICATION LIST. THE HS HANDBOOK DESCRIBES IN DETAIL VARIOUS METHODS OF FINDING-THE CORRECT HK HS CODE FOR A COMMODITY, AND ALSO CONTAINS A LOT OF PRACTICAL EXAMPLES AND EXERCISES."

THE NEW IMPORTS AND EXPORTS CLASS IFICATION LIST CONTAINING THE HK HS CODES AND DESCRIPTIONS IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR SALE AND SO IS THE COMPREHENSIVE HS HANDBOOK.

IN ADDITION, A SERIES OF SEMINARS ON HOW TO USE THE NEW CLASSIFICATION LIST AND THE HANDBOOK WILL BE ORGANISED FOR TRADERS FROM NOVEMBER THIS YEAR. TRADERS WILL BE ABLE TO .OBTAIN A PAMPHLET GIVING FULL DETAILS OF THE SEMINARS SOON. THE SPOKESMAN URGED TRADERS TO RESPOND PROMPTLY TO INVITATIONS TO THE SEMINARS AND TO MAKE ANY NECESSARY PREPARATIONS FOR Till': CHANGEOVER AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE.

DETAILS OF THE NEW CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT AT 17/F, WANCHA1 TOWER I, 12 HARBOUR. ROAD, 'WAN CHAI, HONG KONG (TEL. NO. 5-8234919).

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

NEW FIRE STATIONS AT KOTBWALL ROAD, CHEUNG CHAU

» t » t *

A NEW FIRE STATION IS TO BE BUILT AT KOTEWALL ROAD TO IMPROVE FIRE COVER TO THE MID-LEVELS OF HONG KONG ISLAND.

IT WILL BE A FOUR-STOREY BUILDING CONSISTING A THREE-BAY APPLIANCE ROOM, OFFICES, CONTROL AND STORE ROOMS, BARRACKS WITH ABLUTIONS, A DINNING ROOM AND A DRYING ROOM.

THERE WILL ALSO BE A DRILL YARD, AN UNDERGROUND OIL TANK AND A GENERATOR ROOM.

THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE WORK WHICH IS EXPECTED TO START IN FEBRUARY AND BE COMPLETED IN 12 MONTHS.

THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF TENDERS IS NOON ON NOVEMBER 27.

MEANWHILE, THE DEPARTMENT HAS AWARDED A $4.6 MILLION CONTRACT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW FOUR-STOREY FIRE STATION ON CHEUNG CHAU.

SITUATED ON A 710-SQUARE-METRE SITE NEAR CHEUNG CHAU FERRY PIER, THE FIRE STATION WILL HAVE A UNIQUE DESIGN, WITH THREE BAY APPLIANCES ROOMS, A COMMUNICATIONS ROOM, EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT STORE, WORKSHOP, EXERCISE ROOM AND STORES.

OTHER FACILITIES WILL INCLUDE DRILL YARD, OFFICES, BARRACKS AND DINING ACCOMMODATION.

WORK WILL START ON NOVEMBER 18 AND TAKE ABOUT ONE YEAR TO COMPLETE.

------0-------

TUEN MUN FESTIVAL OPENS » t ♦ »

THE ACTING REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR PETER NG, SAID ORGANISING A VARIETY SHOW IN TUEN MUN TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE COMMUNITY CHEST WAS A PRAISEWORTHY EFFORT BY RESIDENTS IN SHOWING CONCERN AND CARR FOR THE NEEDY AND THE UNDERPRIVILEGED.

MR NG WAS SPEAKING TONIGHT (MONDAY) AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE MONTH-LONG 1987 TURN MUN DISTRICT FESTIVAL IN WHICH 47 ENTERTAINING EVENTS WILL BE PRESENTED.

REFERRING TO THE DISTRICT’S GROWTH, MR NG SAID THE OPENING OF THE NEW TOWN PLAZA NEXT MONTH, AND THE COMPLETION OF THE TUEN MUN TOWN HALL AND GOVERNMENT AND COMMERCIAL COMPLEXES SYMBOLISED THE COMPREHENSIVE AND MULTI-FACET DEVELOPMENT OF TUEN MUN.

/"DURING IRE

MONDAY, NOVIMBER 9, 1987

"DURING THE PAST 10 YEARS, TURN MUN HAS CHANGED FROM A MARKET CENTRE OF 30,000 PEOPLE TO A NEW TOWN OF 300,000 WITH NUMEROUS FACILITIES SUCH AS PUBLIC TRANSPORT, HOUSING, SCHOOLS, MEDICAL AND SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES," HE SAID.

"TO COMPLEMENT ALL THESE, AN INTEGRAL COMMUNITY ALSO REQUIRES CO-OPERATION AND INTERACTION AMONG THE DISTRICT BOARD, DISTRICT ORGANISATIONS AND RURAL ASSOCIATIONS TO BUILD A HARMONISED AND UNITED COMMUNITY."

MR NG THOUGHT THAT THE LAUNCHING OF THE BIENNIAL FESTIVAL COULD HELP TO ACHIEVE THE ABOVE AIMS.

FESTIVAL EVENTS RANGE FROM EXHIBITIONS, SINGING CONTEST, DRAMA COMPETITION, CANTONESE OPERA PERFORMANCE, MIME AND PUPPET SHOWS, TO RUNNING AND SOCCER COMPETITIONS, ALL HELD IN DIFFERENT VENUES. GYMNASTIC TEAMS WILL BE ANOTHER ATTRACTION.

MEANWHILE, A TOTAL OF *240,000 DONATED BY LOCAL RESIDENTS WAS RAISED BY THE FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE FOR THE COMMUNITY CHEST.

-------0---------

BRIEFING FOR NT DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS

*****

A TOTAL OF 60 DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES ATTENDED A BRIEFING ON EDUCATIONAL MATTERS GIVEN BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT THIS (MONDAY) MORNING AT THE OLD LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER IN THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, LOWER ALBERT ROAD.

THE BRIEFING BEGAN WITH AN INTRODUCTION BY THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR DAVID LAN.

THIS WAS FOLLOWED BY A TALK GIVEN BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (BUILDING AND SYSTEM), MR S. H. HSU, ON THE SCHOOL BUILDING PROGRAMME AND CONVERSION WORKS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL TEACHING SPACE IN SCHOOLS.

THE BRIEFING ALSO INCLUDED TALKS ON EXPULSION OF STUDENTS AND FLOATING CLASSES BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (SCHOOLS), MR S. W. WONG, AND THE PROVISION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (SERVICES), MR LUCAS CHAN.

IT ENDED WITH A QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS SESSION CHAIRED BY THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y. T. LI.

A SIMILAR BRIEFING WILL BE GIVEN TO DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS IN THE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON REGION EARLY NEXT MONTH.

THE BRIEFINGS ENABLE THE DIRECTORATE OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TO ESTABLISH A DIRECT DIALOGUE WITH DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS ON MATTERS OF MUTUAL CONCERN.

- - 0 - -

/15

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

- 15 -

MANPOWER SURVEY ON EDP INDUSTRY BEGINS ♦ » ♦ ♦ ♦ «

THE COMMITTED ON ELECTRONIC DATA PROCESSING TRAINING OF THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL WILL CONDUCT A SURVEY BETWEEN NOVEMBER 17 AND DECEMBER 7 TO COLLECT UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ON THE INDUSTRY’S MANPOWER AND EMPLOYMENT SITUATION.

QUESTIONNAIRES AND EXPLANATORY LETTERS HAVE BEEN SENT TO THE ESTABLISHMENTS COVERED IN THE SURVEY INCLUDING COMPANIES WITH COMPUTER INSTALLATIONS, COMPUTER/PERIPHERAL MANUFACTURERS, COMPUTER SUPPLIERS, EDP CONSULTANCY FIRMS, BUREAUS AND EDP TRAINING INSTITUTIONS.

OFFICERS FROM THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT WILL CALL AT THESE ESTABLISHMENTS TO ASSIST EMPLOYERS IN COMPLETING THE QUESTIONNAIRES.

INFORMATION COLLECTED WILL BE HANDLED IN STRICT CONFIDENCE AND PUBLISHED ONLY IN THE FORM OF STATISTICAL SUMMARIES WITHOUT REFERENCE TO ANY INDIVIDUAL ESTABLISHMENT.

EMPLOYERS ARE URGED TO CO-OPERATE BY PROVIDING ACCURATE INFORMATION WHICH IS VITAL IN FORMULATING APPROPRIATE TRAINING PLANS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE INDUSTRY.

-------0---------

APPLICATION FOR PARTICIPATION IN ADVANCED LEVEL EXAM ♦ * * ♦ ♦

THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT REMINDED SCHOOLS WISHING TO CANDIDATES FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE HONG KONG ADVANCED EXAMINATION 1989 TO APPLY TO THE SECRETARY OF THE HONG EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY FOR APPROVAL BEFORE DECEMBER 1.

ENTER LEVEL KONG

APPLICATION FORMS FOR ENTERING CANDIDATES ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE OFFICE OF THE HONG KONO EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY AT CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 1OTH FLOOR, 393 CANTON ROAD, YAU MA TEI.

THE HANDBOOK OF REGULATIONS AND SYLLABUSES FOR THE 1989 EXAMINATION ARE ON SALE AT THE PUBLICATIONS UNIT, HONG KONG EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY, 17 TSEUK I,UK STREET^ SAN PO KONG, KOWLOON; AND THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATION CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, HONG KONG AND LEADING BOOK STORES.

- - 0 -

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9,

1987

I * - 16 -

IMPROVEMENT TO HAWKER BAZAAR ON AGENDA ' * * * « «

MEMBERS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE OF THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO CONSIDER AN IMPROVEMENT PROJECT FOR THE LUEN WO HUI HAWKER BAZAAR.

THEY WILL CONSIDER ALLOCATING *15,000 TO REPAVE THE AREA TO FACILITATE DAILY CLEANSING BY THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO CONSIDER RECONSTRUCTING A FOOTPATH AT TIN SUM VILLAGE IN KWU TUNG AND REPAIRING A STREAM EMBANKMENT AT FU TEI AU, SHEUNG SHUI.

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE SITUATION REPORTS ON LOCAL PUBLIC WORK PROJECTS AND VILLAGE LIGHTING PROGRAMME FOR THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTER MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE, JOCKEY CLUB ROAD, FANLING. THE MEETING WILL START AT 9.30 AM.

-------o---------

DB COMMITTER TO MERT ON FUNDING MATTERS *****

THE CULTURE, RECREATION AND SPORTS COMMITTEE OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO DISCUSS ALLOCATION OF DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS FOR ORGANISING SPORTS ACTIVITIES.

MEMBERS WILL CONSIDER THE NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMME PLANNED BY THE REGIONAL COUNCIL. THEY WILL ALSO BE BRIEFED ON THE VETTING REPORT OF THE DISTRICT BOARD SECRETARY ON THE APPLICATION OF FUNDS AND THE STUDY ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ACTIVITIES IN TUEN MUN BETWEEN OCTOBER AND DECEMBER.

• NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD’S CULTURE, RECREATION AND SPORTS COMMITTEE TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE DISTRICT BOARD SECRETARIAT ON 3/F., GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, NO. 1, TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN. THE MEETING yiLL START AT 2.30 PM.

. ------------------------0-------- /17......................*

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

- 17 -

WAN CHAI COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS TRAFFIC PROBLEMS

♦ t * i i

THE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE OF THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO DISCUSS RELATED ISSUES IN THE DISTRICT.

TWO QUESTIONS WILL BE RAISED AT THE MEETING CONCERNING THE WIDENING OF TAI HANG ROAD TO A THREE-LANE CARRIAGEWAY AND TRAFFIC PROBLEMS IN WAN CHAI.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED-TO COVER THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE MEETING TO BE HELD TOMORROW IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICE, 8TH FLOOR, TUNG WAH MANSION, 201 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI. THE MEETING WILL START AT 4 PM.

--------0----------

ISLANDS DISTRICT TO HOLD FESTIVAL

* ♦ t ♦

THE FIRST ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL, OFFERING A WIDE RANGE OF CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES, WILL BEGIN ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15).

AN OPENING CEREMONY, TO BE FOLLOWED BY A VARIETY SHOW JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE AND RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG’, WILL BE HELD AT THE PAK TEI TEMPLE PLAYGROUND ON CHEUNG CHAU.

A PRESS CONFERENCE, AT WHICH DETAILS OF THE 15-DAY FESTIVAL AND THE VARIETY SHOW WILL BE GIVEN, WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE LOBBY OF RADIO AND TELEVISION HONG KONG, 30 BROADCAST DRIVE, BROADCASTING HOUSE, KOWLOON.

IT WILL START AT 2.30 PM, AND THOSE ATTENDING WILL INCLUDE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MISS LEE WAI-FONG; PUBLICITY SUB-COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR CHUNG MAN-SHIU; HEAD OF RTHK RADIO 1, MISS AVER WONG; PRODUCER OF THE VARIETY SHOW, MR FRANCIS MAK, AND SEVERAL ARTISTS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE PRESS CONFERENCE. INFORMATION OFFICER, MR RAYMOND TAM, WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

-----0------

/18........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1987

- 18 -

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN MONO KOK *****

TO FACILITATE THE EMERGENCY REPAIR OF WATER MAIN AT THE JUNCTION OF NELSON STRICT AND CANTON ROAD IN MONG KOK, THE SECTION OF NELSON STREET BETWEEN THISTLE STREET AND CANTON ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC FROM 10 AM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 11) FOR ABOUT BIGHT DAYS.

DURING THE CLOSURE, VEHICLES TRAVELLING ON NELSON STREET BETWEEN FERRY STREET AND THISTLE STREET HEADING FOR CANTON ROAD WILL BE DIVERTED VIA NELSON STREET, THISTLE STREET, SHAN TUNG STREET, KAM LAM STREET, SOY STREET AND CANTON ROAD.

-------0 - -

I WATER STORAGE FIGURE * « *

STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 67.0 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 392.715 MILLION CUBIC METRES.

THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 378.300 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 64.5 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.

--------0 ----------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

FS: RIGHT DECISIONS ESSENTIAL IN DEVELOPING INFRASTRUCTURE 1

NEW SHIPPING REGISTER WILL MEET UN STANDARDS ............. 5

EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS FOR SEPTEMBER RELEASED ........ 6

TEN OFFICIALS TO SPEAK IN LEGCO DEBATE................. 14

FINANCE COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER Sl8M ECVII PROVISION..... I't

PUBLIC URGED TO BE CaREFUL AND PATIENT ON ROaDS.......... 15

HAND-OVER OF WASTE TREATMENT SYSTEM .................... 16

ISLANDS : A PLACE WHICH WELCOMES VISITORS ............... 17

GOVERNOR TO VISIT ISLANDS DISTRICT....................... 18

AUCTION OF SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS ........................ 19

NEW DEPOT FACILITIES FOR POLICE TACTICAL UNIT ........... 19

DB COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE MID-LEVELS TRANSPORT ............ 20

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS TREE PLANTING LOCATIONS ......... 20

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS OUT-PATIENT SERVICE FEES ........ 21

DB SPOT-LIGHT ON CIVIC EDUCATION ........................ 21

THREE-WEEK AIDS EXHIBITION IN KWAI TSING ................ 22

FUNDS SOUGHT FOR ENVIRONMENT CALENDAR ................... 22

NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT FOR KORNHILL ROAD ............... 25

IMPROVEMENT WORKS IN LUEN WO HUI ........................ 25

URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTIONS LIFTED ...................... 2k

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

FS: RIGHT DECISIONS ESSENTIAL IN DEVELOPING INFRASTRUCTURE

*****

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR PIERS JACOBS, TODAY (TUESDAY) OUTLINED PLANS FOR THE TERRITORY’S INFRASTRUCTURE WHICH HE SAID MUST BE TAKEN WITH CAUTIOUS AND CONSERVATIVE STEPS TO ENSURE THE RIGHT DECISIONS WERE MADE.

ALTHOUGH THE THRUST OF HIS SPEECH TO THE ROTARY CLUB OF HONG KONO CENTRED AROUND THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PORT AND AIRPORT, THE PACKAGE HE OUTLINED INCLUDED THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (TDS), THE PORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (PDS), THE PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (PADS) AND THE DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL OF TSING YI, WESTERN HARBOUR, AND ROAD AND RAIL SERVICES.

THE OVERALL RESULT, HE SAID, WAS A CLEAR INDICATION OF GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO THE FUTURE GROWTH OF HONG KONO.

MR JACOBS SAID THAT ALTHOUGH THE AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE OF NINE PER CENT WAS USED AS A BASIS FOR THE "TRIGGER POINT MECHANISM" FOR PLANNING THE FUTURE PROVISION OF NEW CONTAINER TERMINALS, THE GROWTH IN THROUGHPUT IN KWAI CHUNG DURING THE PAST YEAR EXCEEDED 20 PER CENT.

AND IT WAS ESTIMATED THAT AFTER COMPLETION OF TERMINAL 7 IN 1993, UP TO 15 ADDITIONAL BERTHS WOULD NEED TO BE COMMISSIONED BY 2001 .

"BY 1988, WE NEED TO IDENTIFY THE LOCATION OF CONTAINER TERMINALS 8 AND 9 WHICH WOULD NEED TO BE BROUGHT INTO OPERATION BY 1994-95. THIS DECISION MUST BE MADE IN A STRATEGIC CONTEXT AS THERE REMAINS NO ROOM IN KWAI CHUNG FOR FURTHER EXTENSION.

"CONSIDERATION MUST ALSO BE GIVEN TO GROWING DEMAND FOR BACK UP AREAS AND DEEP WATER FRONT SITES FOR SPECIAL INDUSTRIAL USES AND POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS INSTALLATIONS," MR JACOBS SAID.

ON THE AIRPORT HE SAID IT WAS ONE OF THE BUSIEST IN THE WORLD, HANDLING MORE THAN 10 MILLION INTERNATIONAL PASSENGERS AND SOME 500,000 TONNES OF FREIGHT A YEAR.

THE NEW TERMINAL - EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED NEXT YEAR - WOULD HAVE A CAPACITY OF 18 MILLION PASSENGERS A YEAR, WHICH WOULD MEET THE PROJECTED DEMAND FOR PROCESSING FACILITIES UP TO THE EARLY 1990’S.

"DEMAND MANAGEMENT WOULD BE REQUIRED IN THE FIRST DECADE OF THE NEXT CENTURY AND THEREAFTER MORE SEVERE RESCHEDULING WOULD BE REQUIRED," MR JACOBS SAID.

ECONOMIC GROWTH, HE SAID, HAD INCREASED DEMANDS FOR ADDITIONAL PORT AND AIRPORT FACILITIES WHICH REQUIRED ASSOCIATED URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND NEW TRANSPORT LINKS.

/land use .......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1?87

LAND USE WAS LOOKED AT IN THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT STUDY, UPDATED LAST YEAR, WHICH INCLUDED URBAN GROWTH ON MAJOR RECLAMATIONS AROUND VICTORIA HARBOUR, UPGRADING AND THE EXTENSION OF PRINCIPAL TRANSPORT LINKS, DEVELOPMENT OF ADDITIONAL CONTAINER TERMINALS AT KWAI CHUNG, AND THE CONTINUED USE OF KAI TAK AIRPORT TO ITS FULL PRACTICAL CAPACITY.

OTHER FEASIBILITY STUDIES LINKED WITH THE INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT INCLUDED ROUTE X - A LINK BETWEEN NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES AND SHENZHEN SEZ AND BETWEEN THE KWAI CHUNG CONTAINER TERMINAL AND THE METROPOLITAN AREA; A FREIGHT RAIL LINK BETWEEN SHA TIN AND KWAI CHUNG; EXPANSION OF THE KCRC RAILWAY FREIGHT TERMINAL AT HUNG HOM BAY, WHICH WOULD SERVE KWAI CHUNG PRINCIPALLY BY LIGHTERS; AND THE SECOND COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORT STUDY.

MR JACOBS SAID ALL THIS WAS NECESSARY TO ENSURE EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT LINKAGES AND COMMUNICATIONS WITH OTHER COUNTRIES, ESPECIALLY CHINA AND OTHER TRADING PARTNERS.

"THE PORT AND AIRPORT ARE CRUCIAL NODES IN THE INFRASTRUCTURE NETWORK," HE SAID.

IN REPLY TO A PRESS QUESTION, AFTER THE LUNCHEON, ON WHETHER THE PORT AND AIRPORT PROJECTS WOULD BE AFFECTED BY A SLOWDOWN IN THE ECONOMY, MR JACOBS SAID "OBVIOUSLY THE TIMING OF THIS SORT OF PROJECT WOULD BE AFFECTED BY THE ECONOMY".

"THAT’S WHAT I’VE MENTIONED IN MY SPEECH, THE FACT THAT WE LOOK AT THE GROWTH OF TRADE OVER A PERIOD OF TIME, PARTICULARLY IN RELATION TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONTAINER TERMINAL. SO THIS IS AN ONGOING, CONTINUOUS PROCESS. SO, YES, IT COULD HAVE AN EFFECT ON FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS," HE SAID.

ON THE EXTENT OF STOCK MARKET EVENTS AFFECTING HONG KONG’S ECONOMY, MR JACOBS SAID ECONOMIES THE WORLD OVER WHERE BEING AFFECTED.

"IF YOU LOOK AT EVERYWHERE IN THE WORLD WHERE THERE HAS BEEN A TRAUMATIC FALL IN STOCK MARKETS, I THINK MOST PEOPLE RECOGNISE THAT THERE COULD BE SOME SLOWDOWN.

"I THINK HONG KONG IS VERY WELL PLACED. IF YOU GET AWAY FROM CENTRAL AND STOP THINKING ABOUT THE STOCK MARKET YOU’LL FIND BUSINESSES ARE JUST AS GOOD AS THEY WERE BEFORE," HE NOTED.

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

NEW SHIPPING REGISTER WILL MEET UN STANDARDS

* * * *

THE PROPOSED NEW HONG KONG SHIPPING REGISTER WILL MEET ALL CRITERIA AND STANDARDS SET OUT IN THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION ON CONDITIONS FOR REGISTRATION OF SHIPS ADOPTED IN FEBRUARY 1986.

THIS WAS STATED BY THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR GERRY HIGGINSON, IN AN ADDRESS TO THE EAST ASIA COMMITTEE OF THE LLOYD’S REGISTER OF SHIPPING THIS (TUESDAY) MORNING.

THE HEART OF THE UN CONVENTION LAY IN THREE PRINCIPAL CLAUSES REQUIRING THE FLAG STATE TO HAVE A COMPETENT AND ADEQUATE NATIONAL MARITIME ADMINISTRATION; TO IMPLEMENT APPLICABLE INTERNATIONAL RULES AND STANDARDS CONCERNING, IN PARTICULAR, THE SAFETY OF SHIPS AND PERSONS ON BOARD AND THE PREVENTION OF POLLUTION OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT; AND TO ENSURE THAT THE MANNING AND EMPLOYMENT ON SHIPS WAS IN CONFORMITY WITH APPLICABLE INTERNATIONAL RULES AND STANDARDS.

"WE HAVE AN EXTREMELY COMPETENT MARITIME ADMINISTRATION. OUR RECORD OF ADHERENCE TO INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS IS EXCELLENT," MR HIGGINSON SAID.

"INDEED, HONG KONG IS ONE OF ONLY THREE INTERNATIONAL REGISTERS (THE OTHERS BEING LIBERIA AND THE ISLE OF MAN) LISTED IN THE APPENDIX TO THE INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING FEDERATION'S GUIDE TO INTERNATIONAL REGISTERS WHICH HAD RATIFIED FOUR OF THE KEY SAFETY AND MANNING CONVENTIONS - SOLAS 1974, SOLAS 1978 PROTOCOL, STCW AND ILO 147.

"IT HAS Al.SO BEEN AGREED BY BRITAIN AND CHINA, AND ACCEPTED BY THE SECRETARIAT OF THE INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANISATION, THAT HONG KONG SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE AN ASSOCIATE MEMBER OF THE IMO AFTER 1997.

"SO LET THERE BE NO DOUBT ABOUT OUR TOTAL ACCEPTANCE OF OUR INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS," SAID MR HIGGINSON.

ON THE QUESTION OF THE FLAG, MR HIGGINSON SAID REGISTRATION OF A SHIP ENTITLED THAT SHIP TO FLY THE NATIONAL FLAG OF THE PLACE OF REGISTRY WHICH, IN TURN, ESTABLISHED THE NATIONALITY OF THE SHIP, AND THE FLAG STATE SIGNIFIED THE AUTHORITY WHICH WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR EXERCISING JURISDICTION AND CONTROL OVER THE SHIP.

IN HONG KONG’S UNIQUE CIRCUMSTANCES, ARRANGEMENTS WOULD NEED TO BE MADE, WHEN MODIFYING THE REGISTER, TO PROVIDE THAT A FLAG, OR FLAGS, WOULD INDICATE BOTH THE NATIONALITY OF THE SHIP - BRITISH PRE-1997 AND CHINESE POST-1997 - AND THAT SHE WAS ON THE HONG KONG REGISTER, HF. SAID.

"CURRENT PROPOSALS ARE THAT, WHEN THE MODIFIED REGISTER COMES INTO OPERATION, SHIPS ON THE REGISTER SHOULD FLY TWO FLAGS FROM THE STERN - A UNIQUE SOLUTION TO A UNIQUE SITUATION.

/"THE UPPER

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1?8?

"THE UPPER FLAG WOULD - UNTIL JUNE 30 1997 - BE THE RED ENSIGN (THE NATIONAL FLAG FLOWN BY MERCHANT VESSELS ON THE BRITISH REGISTER); THE LOWER FLAG WOULD BE EITHER THE EXISTING HONG KONG FLAG (THE BLUE ENSIGN WITH THE HONG KONG ARMORIAL BEARINGS) OR, ONCE AGREEMENT HAS BEEN REACHED BETWEEN THE CHINESE AND BRITISH SIDES ON ITS DESIGN AND USE, A NEW HONG KONG REGIONAL FLAG.

"FROM JULY 1, 1997, THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND REGIONAL FLAG," HE SAID.

UPPER FLAG WOULD BE THE FLAG OF THE THE LOWER FLAG WOULD BE THE HONG KONG

APART FROM THE FLAG, MR HIGGINSON SAID THE MAJOR AREAS IN WHICH HONG KONG WOULD DIVERGE FROM THE RULES AND PROCEDURES WHICH APPLIED TO THE BRITISH REGISTER WERE IN THE FIELDS OF NATIONAL MANNING REQUIREMENTS AND THE PRESENT GENUINE LINK BETWEEN THE SHIP AND THE FLAG STATE.

HE SAID: "TO THIS EXTENT, HONG KONG CAN BE CONSIDERED TO BE AN OPEN REGISTER. BUT OUR MANNING PROPOSALS - WHICH PRESCRIBE QUALIFICATIONS RATHER THAN NATIONALITY - AND OUR GENUINE LINK PROVISIONS WHICH WILL BE CLOSER THAN THOSE AT PRESENT, REFLECT POLITICAL REALITY.

"OPEN REGISTERS HAVE EVOLVED TO MERT DIFFERENT NEEDS IN THEIR VARIOUS WAYS AND THEY ARE HERE TO STAY. THAT IS A FACT OF LIFE."

MR HIGGINSON ADDED THAT IT WAS A GRIEVOUS ERROR TO EQUATE OPEN REGISTERS WITH SUB-STANDARD SHIPS.

"HONG KONG HAS NO INTENTION WHATSOEVER OF ALLOWING SUB-STANDARD SHIPS TO OPERATE ON ITS REGISTER.

"QUITE THE REVERSE," HE SAID. "OUR TARGET IS THE ABOLITION OF SUB-STANTARD SHIPS WHICH DO NOT COMPLY WITH INTERNATIONALLY AGREED SAFETY AND EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS."

TURNING TO CLASSIFICATION SOCIETIES, MR HIGGINSON SAID IT HAD BEEN ACCEPTED THAT THE SOCIETIES WOULD CONTINUE TO PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN CARRYING OUT DELEGATED FUNCTIONS ON BEHALF OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT.

AT PRESENT, ONLY LLOYD’S REGISTER! OF SHIPPING AND FOUR FOREIGN CLASSIFICATION SOCIETIES ENJOYED THIS DELEGATION. "IT WILL BE NECESSARY TO REVIEW THE EXTENT TO WHICH GOVERNMENT CAN PROPERLY DELEGATE SURVEY FUNCTIONS TO THESE - AND OTHERS - SOCIETIES," HE SAID.

MR HIGGINSON EXPLAINED THAT UNDER EXISTING PROCEDURES, UNITED KINGDOM APPROVAL WAS GRANTED ONLY TO CLASSIFICATION SOCIETIES WHICH HAD SET UP BRITISH COMMITTEES.

/"FOR THE .......

TUESDAY, NOTO.®ER 10, 1987

"FOR THE FUTURE REGISTER, CONSIDERATION WILL REQUIRE TO BE GIVEN TO WHETHER OR NOT HONG KONG COMMITTEES WILL BE REQUIRED, OR WHETHER A MORE INFORMAL SYSTEM MIGHT SUFFICE.

"IT IS, FOR EXAMPLE, BEING SUGGESTED THAT NATIONAL CLASSIFICATION SOCIETIES WITH SUBSTANTIAL PERMANENT OFFICES IN HONG KONG MIGHT BE AUTHORISED," MR HIGGINSON SAID, ADDING THAT ACCOUNT HAD ALSO TO BE TAKEN IN THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF HONG KONG OF THE SPECIAL CONSIDERATION WHICH WOULD APPLY TO THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA’S CLASSIFICATION SOCIETY AFTER 1997.

MR HIGGINSON SAID THE STATED INTENTION WAS TO HAVE THE NEW HONG KONG REGISTER IN OPERATION BY 1990 - OR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE THEREAFTER. "TO ACHIEVE THIS, WE NEED URGENTLY TO DEVELOP DETAILED PROPOSALS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NEW REGISTER."

THESE PROPOSALS, WHICH SHOULD BE CONSISTENT WITH THE PRINCIPLES AGREED BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENTS OF THE UNITED KINGDOM AND CHINA, WILL INCLUDE, INTER ALIA, THE PROCEDURES FOR THE OPERATION OF THE REGISTER; QUALIFICATIONS FOR OWNING SHIPS ON THE REGISTER; METHODS BY WHICH THE MARITIME ADMINISTRATION CAN FULFIL ITS OBLIGATION IN REGARD TO INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS, CODE OF PRACTICE ETC.; MEASURES FOR THE EXERCISE OF WORLDWIDE JURISDICTION OVER SHIPS ON THE REGISTER; FINANCING; AND THE TAXATION OF SHIPPING AND THE RELATIONSHIP OF THE TAXATION SYSTEM TO OTHER JURISDICTIONS.

MR HIGGINSON SAID THAT TO ACHIEVE THIS, THE NECESSARY STEERING GROUP, THE COMMITTEES AND THE WORKING GROUPS HAD BEEN SET UP.

"THESE GROUPS CONTAIN, AS NECESSARY, REPRESENTATIVES OF ALL SECTORS OF THE SHIPPING INDUSTRY INCLUDING THE UNIONS," HE ADDED.

MR HIGGINSON ADMITTED THAT THERE WAS MUCH WORK YET TO BE DONE AND THAT THE TIMETABLE MIGHT, AT FIRST SIGHT, SEEM LENGTHY COMPARED WITH, FOR EXAMPLE, THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NORWEGIAN INTERNATIONAL SHIP REGISTRY.

"BUT LET IT NOT BE FORGOTTEN THAT WE ARE NOT A FLAG STATE. OUR PROPOSALS FOR THE FUTURE HAVE TO BE AGREED BY THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT AND MUST BE ACCEPTABLE TO THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA.

"SO OUR SYSTEM OF CONSULTATION AND OF SEEKING APPROVAL WILL BE MUCH MORE COMPLEX AND TIME CONSUMING THAN IF WE WERE AN INDEPENDENT MARITIME ADMINISTRATION."

WHILE NOTING THAT IT WAS NOT THE INTENTION OF HONG KONG TO "POACH" SHIPPING FROM OTHER REGISTERS, MR HIGGINSON FORESAW THAT THE HONG KONG REGISTER WOULD BE ATTRACTIVE TO MANY SHIPOWNERS, BOTH WORLDWIDE AND IN ASIA.

/HE POINTED .......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

HE POINTED OUT THAT AS A BRITISH PORT OF REGISTER, HONG KONG RANKED IN THE TOP TEN IN THE WORLD IN TERMS OF TONNAGE AND RANKED WITH THE BEST IN THE WORLD IN TERMS OF THE SAFETY STANDARDS OF ITS SHIPS.

HONG KONG HAD A WORLD-CLASS HARBOUR AND PORT - INCLUDING A CONTAINER PORT WHICH, THIS YEAR, WAS LIKELY TO BECOME THE LARGEST CONTAINER PORT IN THE WORLD IN TERMS OF THROUGHPUT.

HE NOTED THAT HONG KONG WAS DEVELOPED AS THE ONLY DEEP WATER PORT IN THE SOUTH OF CHINA, AND THAT HAD NOT CHANGED.

WHAT ALSO SHOULD NOT BE FORGOTTEN WAS THE IMPORTANCE OF HONG KONG SHIPPING INTERESTS.

MR HIGGINSON SAID OF ABOUT 30 MILLION GROSS REGISTERED TONNAGE (GRT) OWNED OR MANAGED BY HONG KONG INTERESTS, ONLY ABOUT FIVE MILLION GRT WAS REGISTERED IN HONG KONG; THE OTHER THREE MILLION GRT REGISTERED IN HONG KONG WAS OWNED OR MANAGED OUTSIDE HONG KONG.

"WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF THE NEW REGISTER, A REGISTER IN WHICH MANNING AND OWNERSHIP RULES WILL BE RELAXED, WE EXPECT TO SEE A LIMITED INFLUX BY REGIONAL OWNERS WHO WILL WISH TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE EXCELLENT SHIPPING INFRASTRUCTURE WHICH EXISTS HERE.

"AND OUR ROLE AS A PORT AND AS A SHIPPING CENTRE FOR CHINA IS LIKELY TO CONTINUE TO INCREASE," HE SAID.

"GIVEN THE PROLIFERATION OF OPEN REGISTERS; GIVEN THE WISH OF FINANCIERS, MAJOR OWNERS, INSURERS AND OTHERS TO FIND REGISTERS WHICH MAKE ECONOMIC AND COMMERCIAL SENSE AND WHICH HAVE HIGH STANDARDS OF SAFETY, WE FORESEE THAT THE HONG KONG REGISTER WILL BE ATTRACTIVE TO MANY OWNERS, BOTH WORLDWIDE AND IN ASIA," MR HIGGINSON ADDED.

--------o ---------

EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS

* * *

FOR SEPTEMBER RELEASED * t

THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY RELEASED TRADE VALUE STATISTICS FOR SEPTEMBER 1987. COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1986 TOTAL MERCHANDISE TRADE IN SEPTEMBER 1987, AT $67,111 MILLION GREW BY 38 PER CENT IN VALUE TERMS.

COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1986, DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCREASED IN VALUE TERMS BY 28 PER CENT TO $17,843 MILLION IN SEPTEMBER 1987 WHILE RE-EXPORTS ROSE BY 48 PER CENT TO $16,502 MILLION, BRINGING TOTAL EXPORTS IN SEPTEMBER 1987 TO $34,345 MILLION, WHICH WAS 37 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN SEPTEMBER 1986. ON THE SAME BASIS OF COMPARISON, IMPORTS INCREASED TN VALUE TERMS BY 40 PER CENT TO $32,766 MILLION IN SEPTEMBER 1987.

/domestic exports

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO ALL MAJOR MARKETS INCREASED IN VALUE TERMS BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1986 AND SEPTEMBER 1987. SUBSTANTIAL GROWTH WAS RECORDED IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO JAPAN (+55 PER CENT), FRANCE (+49 PER CENT), CHINA (+48 PER CENT), SINGAPORE (+46 PER CENT) AND THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY (+44 PER CENT).

ON THE SAME BASIS OF COMPARISON, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM ALL . MAJOR SUPPLIERS INCREASED, ESPECIALLY THOSE FROM THE USA (+72 PER CENT), CHINA (+44 PER CENT), TAIWAN (+41 PER CENT), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+36 PER CENT) AND SWITZERLAND (+36 PER CENT). RE-EXPORTS TO . THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY, TAIWAN, JAPAN, AUSTRALIA AND CHINA INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY IN VALUE TERMS BY 106 PER CENT, 78 PER CENT, 59 PER CENT, 56 PER CENT AND 52 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.

TOTAL MERCHANDISE TRADE IN JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1987, AT $540,366 MILLION, INCREASED BY 39 PER CENT IN VALUE TERMS AS COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986. ON THE SAME BASIS OF COMPARISON, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCREASED BY 30 PER CENT TO $141,139 MILLION WHILE RE-EXPORTS INCREASED BY 51 PER CENT TO $129,076 MILLION. THUS, THE VAULE OF TOTAL EXPORTS INCREASED BY 39 PER CENT TO $270,215 MILLION. IMPORTS INCREASED IN VALUE TERMS BY 39 PER CENT TO $270,150 MILLION.

COMPARING JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1987 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986, DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO ALL MAJOR MARKETS INCREASED IN VALUE TERMS. THE MARKETS WITH THE FASTEST GROWTH IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCLUDED JAPAN (+66 PER CENT), CHINA (+62 PER CENT), THE NETHERLANDS (+51 PER CENT), FRANCE (+46 PER CENT) AND FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY (+41 PER CENT). DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO HONG KONG’S LARGEST MARKET, THE USA, GREW BY 17 PER CENT IN VALUE TERMS.

IMPORTS IN JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1987 FROM ALL MAJOR SUPPLIERS INCREASED IN VALUE TERMS WHEN COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986. SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN IMPORTS FROM THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+58 PER CENT), CHINA (+47 PER CENT), TAIWAN (+45 PER CENT), ITALY (+42 PER CENT) AND THE USA (+40 PER CENT).

ON THE SAME BASIS OF COMPARISON, RE-EXPORTS TO THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY, THE UNITED KINGDOM, TAIWAN, AUSTRALIA AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY IN VALUE TERMS BY 107 PER CENT, 87 PER CENT, 62 PER CENT, 60 PER CENT AND 58 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.

ALL TRADE STATISTICS PRESENTED HERE ARE MEASURED AT CURRENT . PRICES AND NO ACCOUNT HAS BEEN TAKEN OF THE CHANGES IN PRICES BETWEEN THE PERIODS OF COMPARISON. A SEPARATE ANALYSIS OF THE PRICE AND VOLUME MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN SEPTEMBER 1987 WILL BE RELEASED IN EARLY DECEMBER 1987.

THE CHANGES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO HONG KONG’S 10 MAJOR MARKETS ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 1.

/COMPARING JANUARY .......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

- 8 -

COMPARING JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1987 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986, INCREASES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS IN VALUE TERMS WERE RECORDED IN ALL MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS. THE MORE NOTABLE ONES INCLUDED CLOTHING (BY $10,756 MILLION OR 29 PER CENT); TEXTILES (BY $4,083 MILLION OR 55 PER CENT); MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (BY $4,069 MILLION OR 22 PER CENT); AS WELL AS TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $2,922 MILLION OR 37 PER CENT). ON THE OTHER HAND, DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN VEGETABLES AND FRUIT (BY $57 MILLION OR 33 PER CENT); AS WELL AS TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT OTHER THAN ROAD VEHICLES (BY $17 MILLION OR 16 PER CENT).

TABLE 2 ILLUSTRATES THE CHANGES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION.

THE CHANGES IN IMPORTS FROM HONG KONG’S 10 MAJOR SUPPLIERS ARE SUMMARISED IN TABLE 3.

COMPARING JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1987 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986, INCREASES IN IMPORTS IN VALUE TERMS WERE REGISTERED FROM TEXTILES (BY $11,857 MILLION OR 39 PER CENT); ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $8,397 MILLION OR 51 PER CENT); TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $5,960 MILLION OR 63 PER CENT); AND CLOTHING (BY $5,316 MILLION OR 39 PER CENT). HOWEVER, DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN COFFEE, TEA, COCOA, SPICES, AND MANUFACTURES THEREOF (BY $113 MILLION OR 12 PER CENT); AS WELL AS CEREALS AND CEREAL PREPARATIONS ($55 MILLION OR 4 PER CENT).

TABLE 4 ILLUSTRATES THE CHANGES IN IMPORTS BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION.

THE CHANGES IN RE-EXPORTS TO HONG KONG’S 10 MAJOR MARKETS ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 5.

COMPARING JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1987 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986, INCREASES IN RE-EXPORTS IN VALUE TERMS WERE REGISTERED FOR TEXTILES (BY $6,763 MILLION OR 49 PER CENT); MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (BY $5,451 MILLION OR 76 PER CENT); CLOTHING (BY $4,365 MILLION OR 46 PER CENT); AS WELL AS ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $4,332 MILLION OR 64 PER CENT). HOWEVER, DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT OTHER THAN ROAD VEHICLES (BY $319 MILLION OR 53 PER CENT); AS WELL AS COFFEE, TEA, COCOA, SPICES, AND MANUFACTURES THEREOF (BY $175 MILLION OR 26 PER CENT).

TABLE 6 ILLUSTRATES THE CHANGES IN RE-EXPORTS BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION.

/details statistics .......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

- 9 -

DETAILS STATISTICS ON TRADE VALUE BY COMMODITY AND BY COUNTRY ARE AVAILABLE IN TRADE STATISTICS REPORTS. THE SEPTEMBER 1987 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG TRADE STATISTICS SUMMARY” WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE AROUND NOVEMBER 20 AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, IN CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AT $5.50 PER COPY.

A MORE COMPREHENSIVE REPORT, "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE", WITH A DETAILED ANALYSIS OF IMPORTS, EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS IN SEPTEMBER 1987 WILL BE AVAILABLE IN EARLY DECEMBER 1987 AT $15 PER COPY.

ENQUIRIES REGARDING REGULAR SUBSCRIPTIONS TO THESE REPORTS MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG (5-8428802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE STATISTICS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (5-8234915).

TABLE 1: DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY 10 MAJOR MARKETS

MAJOR MARKET JAN-SEP JAN-SEP 87 SEP SEP 87 1987 OVER 1987 OVER JAN-SEP 86 SEP 86 (HKD MN.) (%) (HKD MN.) (%)

U.S.A. 53,708 + 17 6,910 + 16

CHINA 19,781 + 62 2,497 + 48

F.R. OF GERMANY 10,789 + 41 1,311 + 44

U.K. 9,001 + 28 1,119 + 33

JAPAN 6,840 + 66 959 + 55

CANADA 4,129 + 14 481 + 14

NETHERLANDS 2,876 + 51 305 + 32

SINGAPORE 2,718 + 35 379 + 46

FRANCE 2,662 + 46 330 + 49

AUSTRALIA 2,626 + 9 339 + 9

/TABLE 2 s ......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1?8?

- 10 -

TABLE 2: DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION

COMMODITY JAN-SEP JAN-SEP 87 SEP SEP 87

DIVISION 1987 OVER 1987 OVER

JAN-SEP 86 SEP 86

(HKD MN.) (%) (HKD MN.) (%)

ARTICLES OF APPAREL

AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 47,617 + 29 6,035 + 30

MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 22,226 + 22 2,922 + 16

TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MA^-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 11,480 + 55 ’i 1,325 + 33

PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 10,969 + 20 1,429 + 23

TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 10,754 + 37 1 1,297 + 1 1

ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 10,560 + 33 1,303 + 37

/TABLE 3: .......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

TABLE 3: IMPORTS FROM 10 MAJOR SUPPLIERS

MAJOR SUPPLIER JAN-SEP 1987 (HKD MN.) JAN-SEP 87 SEP 1987 (HKD MN.) SEP 87 OVER SEP 86 (X)

OVER JAN-SEP (X) 86

CHINA 83,402 4 47 10,636 4 44

JAPAN 51,990 4 29 6,078 4 28

TAIWAN 24,001 + 45 2,847 4 41

U.S.A. 22,963 4 40 3,159 4 72

REPUBLIC OF KOREA 11,938 + 58 1,331 4 36

SINGAPORE 10,237 + 30 1,134 4 23

U.K. 8,371 + 25 830 + 16

F.R. OF GERMANY 7,244 + 25 817 4 21

SWITZERLAND 5,109 4 32 673 4 36

ITALY 4,492 + 42 469 4 31

TABLE 4: IMPORTS BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION

COMMODITY DIVISION JAN-SEP 1987 (HKD MN.) JAN-SEP 87 OVER JAN-SEP 86 (X) SEP 1987 (HKD MN.) SEP 87 OVER SEP 86 (X)

TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 41,957 4 39 4,902 4 40

ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF • 25,020 4 51 2,985 4 44

/articles of apparel........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 198?

ARTICLES OF APPAREL 21

AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 19,117 +• 39 2,356 +

TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 15,348 + 63 2,029 + 43

MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 15,104 + 47 2,090 + 48

PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 14,683 + 26 1,840 + 29

TABLE 5: RE-EXPORTS BY 10 MAJOR MARKETS

MAJOR MARKET JAN-SEP 1987 JAN-SEP 87 OVER SEP 1987 SEP 87 OVER

JAN-SEP 86 SEP 86

(HKD MN.) (%) (HKD MN.) (%)

CHINA 41,782 + 50 5,282 + 52

U.S.A. 23,993 + 53 3,134 + 37

TAIWAN 6,850 + 62 840 + 78

REPUBLIC OF KOREA 6,550 + 58 714 + 45

JAPAN 6,376 + 45 909 + 59

SINGAPORE 4,614 + 18 534 + 10

F.R. OF GERMANY 3,771 + 107 565 + 106

U.K. 3,122 + 87 44 3 + 29

MACAU 2,451 + 30 272 + 42

AUSTRALIA 1,997 + 60 275 + 56

/TABLE 6.........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

TABLE 6: RE-EXPORTS BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION

COMMODITY DIVISION JAN-SEP 1987 (HKD MN.) JAN-SEP 87 SEP 1987 (HKD MN.) SEP 87 OVER SEP 86 (X)

OVER JAN-SEP (X) 86

TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 20,587 + 49 2,395 + 39

ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 13,850 + 46 1,703 + 24

MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 12,616 ♦ 76 1,976 + 73

ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 11,059 + 64 1,433 + 74

TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS fND EQUIPMENT 8,200 + 89 1,212 + 66

PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 5,872 + 46 610 + 18

- - 0 - -

/14.......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

- 14 -

TEN OFFICIALS TO SPEAK IN LEGCO DEBATE *****

TEN OFFICIAL MEMBERS WILL SPEAK IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY WILL TAKE THE LEAD, TO BE FOLLOWED BY SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, SECRETARY FOR LANDS AND WORKS, SECRETARY FOR DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION, SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, AND THE CHIEF SECRETARY.

-----0------

FINANCE COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER $18M ECVII PROVISION » » ♦ » »

THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL BE ASKED TO APPROVE A SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISION OF $18 MILLION TO MEET THE RECURRENT EXPENSES OF THE OPERATION TO INTERCEPT, PROCESS, DETAIN AND REPATRIATE EX-CHINA VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS (ECVII’S) IN THE PERIOD JULY TO DECEMBER 1987 AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).

IN EARLY JULY 1987, ECVII'S STARTED ARRIVING IN HONG KONG TN LARGE NUMBERS. BY OCTOBER 21, A TOTAL OF 7,401 HAD ARRIVED.

HOWEVER, PROVIDING THERE IS NO NEW INFLUX, ALL ECVII’S WILL HAVE BEEN RETURNED TO CHINA BY THE END OF DECEMBER.

IN THIS CONNECTION, THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO BE ASKED TO APPROVE THE CREATION OF A NEW RECURRENT ACCOUNT SUBHEAD, ’’EXPENSES OF EX-CHINA VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS", UNDER WHICH THE SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISION OF $18 MILLION WILL BE PLACED.

ANOTHER ITEM TO BE DISCUSSED TOMORROW WILL BE THE CREATION OF A NEW CAPITAL ACCOUNT SUBHEAD, ’’LOAN TO THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS", WITH A COMMITMENT OF $50 MILLION.

THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS’ NON-CONTRIBUTORY FINAL AVERAGE SALARY SCHEME TERMINATED ON OCTOBER 31 AND WAS REPLACED BY A CONTRIBUTORY PROVIDENT FUND SCHEME ON NOVEMBER 1, 1987, MAKING A SHORTFALL OF $110 MILLION IN THE BALANCE.

WHILE THE GROUP IS ABLE TO PROVIDE $60 MILLION FROM ITS OWN RESOURCES, IT HAS HAD TO APPLY TO THE GOVERNMENT FOR ASSISTANCE IN THE FORM OF A LOAN OF $50 MILLION TO MAKE UP THE BALANCE.

/other items........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

OTHER ITEMS ON TOMORROW’S AGENDA WILL INCLUDE:

* A COMMITMENT OF $3.4 MILLION TO PROVIDE THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE WITH AN ADDITIONAL MINI-RANGE AND THREE FIREARMS TRAINING SIMULATORS;

* A SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISION OF $5 MILLION TO MEET INCREASED INTEREST PAYMENTS FOR TAX RESERVE CERTIFICATES;

» THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS ESTIMATED AT $63,376,000 IN CAPITAL COSTS FOR PROVIDING ADDITIONAL TEACHING SPACE TO 96 STANDARD DESIGN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN BOTH THE GOVERNMENT AND AIDED SECTORS;

* A NEW COMMITMENT OF $41,738,000 FOR CONVERTING OR EXTENDING PARTS OF THE 65 EXISTING AIDED SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF STANDARD DESIGN TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL TEACHING SPACE;

* THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PROVISIONAL HONG KONG COUNCIL FOR ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION ESTIMATED AT $3.4 MILLION, $6 MILLION AND $3.3 MILLION FOR 1987-88, 1988-89 AND 1989-90 RESPECTIVELY; AND

* AN INCREASE IN COMMITMENT OF $2,250,000 FOR THE EXPANSION OF THE SCOPE OF A CONSULTANCY ON THE GOVERNMENT DATA PROCESSING AGENCY BUREAU COMPUTER SERVICE.

THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO CONSIDER RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE AND THE PUBLIC WORKS SUB-COMMITTEE.

-------O ---------

PUBLIC URGED TO BE CAREFUL AND PATIENT ON ROADS » » « « »

IN SPITE OF CONTINUED EFFORTS IN PROMOTING ROAD SAFETY ACCIDENTS STILL OCCUR AND WILL CONTINUE TO OCCUR UNLESS MOTORISTS AND PEDESTRIANS EXERCISE MORE CARE, TOLERANCE AND PATIENCE IN USING THE ROADS, THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT, MR JAMES SO, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).

MR SO WAS SPEAKING AT THE ANNUAL FIRST AID COMPETITION JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL COMPANY LIMITED AND THE ST JOHN’S AMBULANCE ASSOCIATION.

/HE SAID ........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 198?

- 16 -

HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS FULLY COMMITTED TO PROMOTING ROAD SAFETY THROUGH TRE GUIDANCE AND ADVICE OF THE ROAD SAFETY COUNCIL.

APART FRON| THE DESIGN OF NEW AND SAFER ROADS, FIRM POLICE ENFORCEMENT ACTIQhj, ROAD SAFETY EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY CAMPAIGNS, TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS WERE THOROUGHLY INVESTIGATED AND CAREFULLY ANALYSED TO IDENTIFY ACCIDENT BLACK SPOTS AND TO CARRY OUT REMEDIAL MEASURES.

"THE GOVERNMENT HAS RECENTLY PUBLISHED THE ROAD USERS’ CODE GIVING DETAILED AND USEFUL GUIDANCE AND INFORMATION TO ALL ROAD USERS, AND I SINCERELY HOPE THAT THE PUBLIC AT LARGE WILL BE ABLE TO LEARN FROM THIS CODE AND CONTRIBUTE THEIR COLLECTIVE EFFORTS TO MAKING OUR ROADS SAFER FOR ALL TO USE," SAID MR SO.

TURNING TO CONDITIONS IN THE CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL, MR SO SAID THAT IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS, THERE HAD BEEN 788 ACCIDENTS IN THE TUNNEL AREA, "FORTUNATELY, MOST OF THESE WERE OF A MINOR NATURE, BUT THERE WERE 37 OCCASIONS WHEN IT WAS NECESSARY FOR STAFF TO RENDER FIRST AID TO THE INJURED." HE SAID.

"JN THE CURRENT YEAR, NO LESS THAN 115,000 VEHICLES PER DAY ARE EXPEOJED TO PASS THROUGH THE TUNNEL. SUCH THROUGHPUT CAN ONLY BE ACHIEVED.AND MAINTAINED BY THE HARD WORK AND ENTHUSIASM OF THE COMPANY’S OPERATING STAFF, IN PARTICULAR THE RAPID REMOVAL OF BREAKDOWN AND ACCIDENT VEHICLES, WHICH OF COURSE INCLUDES IMMEDIATE FIRST AID TREATMENT TO ACCIDENT VICTIMS.

"THE PURPOSE OF THE COMPANY’S ANNUAL FIRST AID COMPETITION IS NOT ONLY TO IMPROVE ON THE SKILLS OF STAFF BUT ALSO TO INJECT A SENSE OF GOOD-HUMOURED COMPETITION BETWEEN THE VARIOUS SECTIONS OF THE COMPANY. THIS IN TURN FOSTERS BETTER STAFF RELATIONS WHICH ARE IN THE INTERESTS OF BOTH THE COMPANY AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC," HE SAID.

--------0 ----------

HAND-OVER OF WASTE TREATMENT SYSTEM

*****

THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT WILL OFFICIALLY TAKE OVER THE "SEQUENCING BATCH REACTOR SYSTEM" SUCCESSFULLY DEVELOPED BY THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC FOR LIVESTOCK WASTE TREATMENT AT A HAND-OVER CEREMONY TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) MORNING.

THIS SYSTEM IS ONE OF THE FOUR DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS BEING IMPLEMENTED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT IN LIVESTOCK WASTE TREATMENT.

/the ceremony........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

17 -

THE CEREMONY WILL TAKE PLACE AT 9.30 AM AT THE TA KWU LING PIG BREEDING CENTRE IN PING CHE ROAD, FANLING.

PRESENT WILL BE THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT, MR MIKE STOKOE; ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC, DR HOWARD WARD; AND THE DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES (SPECIAL DUTIES), MR LEO KWAN.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

TRANSPORT HAS BEEN ARRANGED FOR MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WHO WISH TO COVER THE HAND-OVER CEREMONY. THEY SHOULD ASSEMBLE AT THE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER IN TSIM SHA TSUI AT 8.15 AM.

--------0----------

ISLANDS : A PLACE WHICH WELCOMES VISITORS

* t * »

THE FIRST ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL, COMMENCING THIS SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15), IS INTENDED TO FOSTER A COMMUNITY SPIRIT AMONG ISLANDERS AND TO FURTHER PROMOTE THE DISTRICT AS A PLACE OF INTEREST TO VISITORS.

SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TO ANNOUNCE DETAILS OF THE 15-DAY FESTIVAL, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MISS LEE WAI-FONG, SAID AS THE ISLANDS DISTRICT WAS RATHER SCATTERED GEOGRAPHICALLY, A SENSE OF BELONGING AMONG RESIDENTS HAD TO BE CULTIVATED.

’’THEREFORE, ’ISLANDS MY HOME’ HAS BEEN ADOPTED AS THE THEME OF THE FESTIVAL AND IT IS THROUGH ORGANISING AND PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAMMES THAT WE ARE ACHIEVING THAT END,” SHE SAID.

MISS LEE SAID AS A SECONDARY AIM, THE FESTIVAL WOULD ALSO PROMOTE THE ALREADY FLOURISHING TOURISM WHICH WAS CRUCIAL TO THE ECONOMY OF THE DISTRICT.

”WE WELCOME VISITORS TO JOIN SOME OF OUR PROGRAMMES AND SHARE THE FESTIVE FUN WITH US,” SHE ADDED.

ANOTHER SPEAKER AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE, CHAIRMAN OF THE PUBLICITY SUB-COMMITTEE MR CHUNG MAN-CHIU, SAID THE 30 CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS PROGRAMMES WOULD BE HELD AT VENUES ON THE FOUR MAIN ISLANDS OF THE DISTRICT - LANTAU, PENG CHAU, CHEUNG CHAU AND LAMMA.

/’’THAT will..........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 19$7

- 18 -

"THAT WILL HELP LOCAL RESIDENTS TO FOSTER A SENSE OF INTER-ISLANDS RELATIONSHIP AND VISITORS TO DISCOVER MORE ATTRACTIONS IN OUR DISTRICT,” HE SAID.

’’THE MAJOR EVENTS - OPENING CEREMONY OUTSIDE THE HISTORIC PAR TEI TEMPLE, SAND SCRAPING COMPETITIONS AT THE BEAUTIFUL BEACHES OF TUNG WAN AND SILVERMINE BAY, LONG DISTANCE RACE ALONG THE SCENIC ROUTE FROM MUI WO TO SHAN SHEK WAN AND THE KITE CARNIVAL IN TUNG CHUNG - WILL BE HELD AT WEEKENDS SO THAT MORE ISLANDERS AND VISITORS CAN PARTICITPATE,” MR CHUNG ADDED.

PREPARATION WORK FOR THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL HAS GONE ON FOR ABOUT A YEAR. THE COSTS ARE ABOUT $300,000, WITH $100,000 FUNDED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD AND THE REST COMING FROM SPONSORS.

AN OPENING CEREMONY, TO BE FOLLOWED BY A VARIETY SHOW CO-ORGANISED WITH RADIO AND TELEVISION HONG KONG, WILL BE HELD AT PAK TEI PLAYGROUND ON CHEUNG CHAU AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15).

-------0-----------

GOVERNOR TO VISIT ISLANDS DISTRICT ♦ * * ♦ t

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AND LADY WILSON WILL VISIT THE ISLANDS DISTRICT ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 12) AFTERNOON TO SEE ITS RECENT DEVELOPMENTS.

THEY WILL FIRST TOUR TAI O ON LANTAU ISLAND AND VISIT A FAMILY LIVING IN ONE OF THE STILTED STRUCTURES KNOWN AS ’’PANG UK’S". THEY WILL ALSO TOUR LUNG TIN ESTATE, THE FIRST RURAL PUBLIC HOUSING ON LANTAU.

LATER SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON WILL FLY TO CHEUNG CHAU WHERE THEY WILL STROLL ALONG THE STREETS FROM TUNG WAN TO THE PRAYA. THEY WILL ALSO ATTEND A TEA RECEPTION AT AN OPEN AREA OUTSIDE PAK TEI TEMPLE AND MEET MEMBERS OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD, RURAL COMMITTEES AND OTHER LOCAL PERSONALITIES.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE GOVERNOR’S VISIT TO THE ISLANDS DISTRICT ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 12).

A PRESS LAUNCH WILL LEAVE THE MARINE DEPARTMENT PIER, CENTRAL, FOR LANTAU AT 12.30 PM FOR THOSE COVERING THE TAT O PART OF THE VISIT.

ANOTHER LAUNCH, THE CLEMENTI, WILL LEAVE THE MARINE DEPARTMENT PIER AT 2 PM FOR CHEUNG CHAU.

- - 0

/19

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

- 19 -

AUCTION OF SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS

♦ * * * *

THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD ANOTHER AUCTION OF SPECIAL CAR REGISTRATION NUMBERS ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) AT 10 AM IN THE CITY HALL RECITAL HALL.

A TOTAL OF 40 SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR BIDDING. THEY ARE :

DP8777 AP596 DR560 DR1638

DP325 DP751 DP9000 DR1668

DH9779 DR1303 DR118 DP8088

AS693 DM8778 DR119 AK3333

DR381 DR632 DP18 DP8388

CK8228 DP9199 DP1888 DS822

DR6222 AK228 DR327 DR128

DR944 DEI DP8698 DP800

DR893 DR2823 DP2345 DR238

DN500 AC986 DR3028 DS8221

SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS MUST PAY IN CASH OR BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.

A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN REMINDED BIDDERS THAT THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBER WOULD BE ASSIGNED ONLY TO A VEHICLE REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE AUCTION.

PROCEEDS OF THE AUCTION WILL AS USUAL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND.

THE AUCTION WILL BE THE 11 STH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973.

-----0------

NEW DEPOT FACILITIES FOR POLICE TACTICAL UNIT

*****

NEW FACILITIES ARE TO BE PROVIDED AT THE POLICE TACTICAL UNIT DEPOT AT VOLUNTEER SLOPES IN FANLING.

THE FACILITIES WILL INCLUDE 10 BLOCKS OF BUILDINGS RANGING FROM SINGLE-STOREY TO FIVE STOREYS TO ACCOMMODATE OFFICES, TRAINING FACILITIES, INDOOR REVOLVER RANGE, STORES, RADIO WORKSHOP, MESS, BARRACK AND ABLUTIONS, AND GARAGE.

WORK IS EXPECTED TO START NEXT JANUARY AND BE COMPLETED IN DECEMBER 1989.

THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS WHICH SHOULD BE SUBMITTED BY NOON ON DECEMBER 4.

-----0------

/20........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

20 -

DB COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE MID-LEVELS TRANSPORT

*****

THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE WILL EXAMINE THE MID-LEVELS TRANSPORT STUDY OUTLINE AT A MEETING ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 12).

THE STUDY IS AIMED AT DRAWING UP LONG-TERM STRATEGIES TO INCREASE TRAFFIC CAPACITY TO COPE WITH MAJOR REDEVELOPMENT IN THE AREA.

THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT WILL SUBMIT A SURVEY REPORT CONCERNING POLLUTION ON THE PROPOSED ELEVATED ROAD ALONG CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST TO THE COMMITTEE.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS PEDESTRIAN PROBLEMS IN CAINE ROAD WHILE THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL SUGGEST MEASURES TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW IN SMITHFIELD ROAD.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE MEETING WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 12) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM, 14/F., HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL.

------o-------

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS TREE PLANTING LOCATIONS

*****

THE ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE OF THE YAU MA TEI DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 12) TO DISCUSS SUITABLE SITES FOR PLANTING TREES IN THE DISTRICT.

THE SITES WERE RECOMMENDED BY RESIDENTS THROUGH A PLANTING SCHEME ORGANISED DURING THE CURRENT DISTRICT FESTIVAL.

AT THE MEETING, A MEMBER WILL RAISE QUESTIONS ON THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF THE YAU MA TEI PUBLIC LIBRARY AND ON THE MANAGEMENT OF HAWKER STALLS IN TEMPLE STREET. THERE WILL ALSO BE QUESTIONS ON FOLLOW-UP ACTION TO ROAD EXCAVATION WORKS.

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE INFORMATION PAPERS ON SUGGESTED LOCATIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT IN STREET LIGHTING AND THE DISTRICT’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE YAU MA TEI DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 12) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF YAU MA TEI DISTRICT OFFICE, SECOND FLOOR, 490 NATHAN ROAD. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.

- - 0 -

/21

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

21 -

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS OUT-PATIENT SERVICE FEES

*****

THE SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 13) TO DISCUSS CHARGES FOR OUT-PATIENT SERVICES.

THE DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICER (TAI PO) , MR K.L. LAM, WILL BRIEF MEMBERS ON THE PROVISION OF PRE-VOCATIONAL EDUCATION.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO REVIEW THE PROGRESS OF THE ANTI-SMOKING PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN IN TAI PO, THE ICAC KWONG WANG INVOLVEMENT PROGRAMME, THE “STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT OF TAI PO IN THE 1990'S PROJECT" AND DAY FOR THE ELDERLY IN THE DISTRICT.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD'S SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE AT 9.30 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 13) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF THE TAI PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE, 152 KWONG FUK ROAD.

-----0------

DB SPOT-LIGHT ON CIVIC EDUCATION

*****

THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD’S SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE WILL MEET TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) TO DISCUSS THE PROGRESS OF VARIOUS CIVIC EDUCATION ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT.

THE PROGRESS REPORT WILL BE GIVEN BY CHAIRMAN OF THE WORKING GROUP ON YUEN LONG DISTRICT CIVIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN, MR CHAN YAT-TUNG.

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE A PROGRESS REPORT ON DISTRICT BOARD-SPONSORED SOCIAL SERVICES ACTIVITIES AND A PROPOSED VISIT TO THE HONG KONG SOCIETY FOR THE BLIND.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD, 13TH FLOOR, TAI KIU GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 2 KIU LOK SQUARE, YUEN LONG. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM.

• --------o --------- /22 .........................

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

22 -

THREE-WEEK AIDS EXHIBITION IN KWAI TSING » » » »

THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICE WILL ORGANISE AN

---------------------------- ... THB DISTRIct

EXHIBITION ON FROM TOMORROW

atd<! education at three locations in

(WEDNESDAY) UNTIL EARLY DECEMBER TO MAKE RESIDENTS’ MORE AWARE OF

THE

DISEASE.

THE EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD FOR A

WEEK AT A TIME AT THB CHEUNG CHING ESTATE COMMUNITY CENTRE OF TSING YI, THE TAI WO HAU COMMUNITY CENTRE AND THE KWAI HING GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING.

RESIDENTS AND LOCAL ORGANISATIONS MAY ALSO WATCH A VIDEO TAPE AND SLIDES ON AIDS EDUCATION AT THE COMMUNITY CENTRES.

PAMPHLETS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR DISTRIBUTION AT THE VENUES.

-----o------

FUNDS SOUGHT FOR ENVIRONMENT CALENDAR » t » t ♦

THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD WILL CONSIDER AN APPLICATION FOR FUNDS FROM THE RURAL COMMITTEE AT A MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).

A TOTAL OF $37,500 IS BEING SOUGHT FOR PRINTING CALENDAR POSTERS TO PUT ACROSS THE CLEAN HONG KONG MESSAGE.

THE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO REVIEW THE POSITION OF DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS IN RESPECT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS AND WILL DISCUSS THE PROGRESS REPORT OF LOCAL PUBLIC WORKS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE DISTRICT BOARD SECRETARIAT ON 3/F., GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, NO. 1, TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN.

- - 0

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1987

- 23 -

NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT FOR KORNHILL ROAD *****

THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAS AGREED TO PROVIDE A SIGNAL-CONTROLLED PEDESTRIAN CROSSING AT KORNHILL ROAD AS SUGGESTED BY THE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD.

THE DEPARTMENT HAS CARRIED OUT INVESTIGATION ON THE TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT FOR KORNHILL ROAD AND THE FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 'WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE COMMITTEE AT A MEETING ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 12) AFTERNOON.

THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT WILL INTRODUCE ROADWORKS PLANS RELATED TO THE SHAU KEI WAN FOOTHILLS (WEST) PUBLIC HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PROJECT, SUCH AS WIDENING OF SAI WAN HO STREET AND WAI HANG STREET, AND THE REALIGNMENT OF A PORTION OF ROAD ABOVE SHING ON STREET.

THE MEETING WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT’S PROPOSAL ON TWO-WAY ROUTING OF TSAT TSZ MUI ROAD BET . EN HEALTHY STREET CENTRAL AND EAST.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE MEETING AT 2.30 PM ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 12) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE, 1ST FLOOR, 880-886, KING’S ROAD.

--------0-----------

IMPROVEMENT WORKS IN LUEN WO HUI

*****

MAJOR IMPROVEMENT WORKS IN LUEN WO HUI ARE TO START EARLY NEXT YEAR AS PART OF THE CONTINUING PROGRAMME FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE NORTHEAST NEW TERRITORIES.

THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE PROJECT WHICH IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN FEBRUARY AND TAKE ABOUT 30 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.

THE PROJECT WILL INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 300-METRE DUAL TWO-LANE ROAD WITH ADJOINING FOOTPATHS AND CYCLE TRACK LINKING LUEN WO HUI WITH SHA TAU KOK ROAD.

/the existing .......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 198?

- 24 -

THE EXISTING DRAINAGE AND SEWAGE SYSTEM WILL ALSO BE IMPROVED WHILE A FOOTBRIDGE WILL BE BUILT ACROSS MA WAT RIVER IN ON LOK TSUEN.

THE EXISTING MORNING WHOLESALE ACTIVITIES IN LUEN WO HUI WILL BE REPROVISIONED TEMPORARILY IN ON LOK TSUEN DURING THE WORKS PERIOD. THE ON-STREET PARKING SPACES WILL ALSO BE SUSPENDED BUT A TEMPORARY CARPARK WILL BE BUILT TO MEET THE NEEDS OF RESIDENTS.

TENDERS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED BY NOON ON DECEMBER 4.

-----0------

URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTIONS LIFTED

*****

A NUMBER OF URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTIONS IN FANLING AND SHEUNO SHUI WILL BE LIFTED FROM FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 13).

IN FANLING, THE EXISTING 24-HOUR DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTION ON THE CUL-DE-SAC IN THE EASTERN END OF ROAD L100 WILL BE LIFTED FROM 7 AM ON FRIDAY.

FROM 8 AM ON THE SAME DAY, THE EXISTING PEAK-HOUR (I.E. 7 TO 10 AM AND 4 TO 7 PM) DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTION ON A 35-METRE STRETCH OF THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF FU HING STREET, SHEUNG SHUI, EAST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH SAN FAT STREET WILL BE LIFTED.

AT THE SAME TIME, THE CURRENT PUBLIC LIGHT BUS RESTRICTED ZONE OPERATING ROUND THE CLOCK ON THE SAME SECTION OF FU HING STREET WILL ALSO BE CANCELLED.

THE MEASURE IN SHEUNG SHUI WILL BE IN FORCE FOR ABOUT EIGHT DAYS.

--------0 -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN • . •

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES 6EACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

• - • • - •

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING : • •• • *••••

REVIEW COMMITTEE WILL DRAW LESSONS FROM RECENT EVENTS .... 1

••••••• • • • • « f . •

HK SHOULD CONTINUE TO PROSPER, SAYS FS ..................... 2

••<••••••• 9 9 9 9 •

FS: DISASTROUS TO ALLOW FUTURES MARKET TO COLLaPSE ......... 6

IMPORTANT STUDIES ON AIRPORT IN PROGRESS ................... 8

GOVERNMENT TOTALLY COMMITTED TO HK PEOPLE — CS.............. 9

. . ...

CS: STRONG ENDORSEMENT OF GOVERNOR'S POLICIES, PLANS ...... 12

TIMELY TO ENSURE ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE IS IN GOOD SHAPE 13

FORMATION OF ADVISORY BODIES WILL NOT LESSEN

RESPONSIBILITIES ........................................ 1^

LINKS WITH CHINA WILL CONTINUE TO DEVELOP ................. 15

GOVT PURSUING REPATRIATION SOLUTION TO REFUGEE PROBLEM ... 16

ARGUMENTS WEIGH AGAINST COMPULSORY PROVIDENT FUND ......... 20

WHITE BILL SHORTLY ON COMPLEX COMMERCIAL CRIME TRIAL LAW . 22

INCOME DECLARATION REQUIREMENT FOR OVER-70'S DELETED ...... 25

PERMANENT THINK-TANK ON EDUCATION ......................... 27

PLAN FOR PHASED DEVELOPMENT OF HINTERLANDS ................ 29

EMC GUIDELINE WILL IMPROVE BUILDING MANAGEMENT ............ 30

MUCH BEING DONE TO BOOST PRODUCTIVITY ..................... 32

DEVELOPMENTS ON ARTS, RECREATION AND SPORTS OUTLINED.... 33

/WELL ESTABLISHED .......

WELL ESTABLISHED POLICY ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT ................. J4

PLANNING FOR TRANSPORT INTO NEXT CENTURY .................... ?6

ECONOMIC GROWTH A FACTOR BEHIND TRAFFIC CONGESTION....... $8

FS: ABILITY TO CHANGE a KEY FACTOR IN SUCCESS ................. 40

INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT ASSISTS CHIMICAL PROCESS INDUSTRY...... 40

STEP FORWARD IN TREATING LIVESTOCK WaSTE ...................... 42

APPOINTMENTS TO CIVIL SERVICE SALARIES COMMISSION ............. 4?

HK AN ATTRACTION FOR HIGH TECHNOLOGY INVESTMENT................ 4}

MORE CHILD CARE PLACES IN THE PIPELINE ........................ 44

CYC MEMBERS TO BREAK WORLD POSTER RECORD ...................... 44

KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL CLOSES ON SUNDAY ................... 45

REGISTRATION OF a DTC REVOKED ................................. 46

RESTRICTED ZONES IN ABERDEEN .................................. 46

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER II, 1987

REVIEW COMMITTEE WILL DRAW LESSONS EROM RECENT EVENTS

♦ * » * * A

THE GOVERNMENT HAS SET UP A COMMITTEE OF REVIEW, TO BE KNOWN AS THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE, TO DRAW LESSONS FROM RECENT EVENTS IN THE STOCK AND FUTURES MARKETS, AND, AS FAR AS POSSIBLE, ENSURE THAT THOSE EVENTS DO NOT HAPPEN AGAIN, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON PIERS JACOBS, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

LEADING OFF THE REPLIES BY OFFICIALS IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR'S POLICY SPEECH, MR JACOBS ANNOUNCED THAT MR IAN HAY DAVISON FROM THE UK, WHO HAD GREAT RELEVANT KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE, HAD ACCEPTED AN INVITATION TO SERVE AS CHAIRMAN OF THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE.

MR S.L. CHEN, MR LAU WAH-SUM, THE HON PETER POON, MR CHARLES SOO AND MR PHILIP TOSE HAD AGREED TO SERVE AS MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE, HE SAID.

MR DAVISON IS AN ADVISER TO ARTHUR ANDERSEN AND CO. AND A DIRECTOR OF MIDLAND BANK PLC. FROM 1983 TO 1986 HE WAS DEPUTY CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE, LLOYD’S OF LONDON.

MR JACOBS ADDED THAT THE SECRETARY OF THE COMMITTEE WOULD BE A SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR FROM THE CIVIL SERVICE, WHO WOULD BE GIVEN ALL THE SUPPORT THAT THE COMMITTEE MIGHT REQUIRE.

HE SAID THE TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE COMMITTEE WOULD BE:

(’

"IN THE LIGHT OF RECENT EVENTS IN THE STOCK AND FUTURES MARKETS AND IN RECOGNITION OF THE NEED TO MAINTAIN HONG KONG AS A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE, TO REVIEW THE CONSTITUTION, POWERS, MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF -

(A) THE HONG KONG STOCK AND FUTURES EXCHANGES;

(B) THE SECURITIES AND COMMODITIES TRADING COMMISSIONS; AND

AND TO RECOMMEND WHAT CHANGES ARE DESIRABLE TO ENSURE THE INTEGRITY OF THE MARKETS AND TO PROTECT INVESTORS."

THE COMMITTEE WOULD BE ASKED TO ACT IN ACCORDANCE WITH A NUMBER OF DIRECTIONS, HE SAID. A

"FIRST, IT SHOULD INVITE SUBMISSIONS FROM ALL INTERESTED-PARTIES AND FROM THE PUBLIC;

"SECOND, ITS OBJECT IS TO EXAMINE CRITICALLY THE RELEVANT STRUCTURES AND SYSTEMS RATHER THAN TO ALLOCATE BLAME OR FIND FAULT WITH NAMED INDIVIDUALS OR INSTITUTIONS FOR PAST EVENTS.

/"THIRD, IT

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

"THIRD, IT SHOULD CONSIDER COMPARABLE ARRANGEMENTS IN OTHER MAJOR FINANCIAL CENTRES; AND

"LASTLY, IT SHOULD USE ITS BEST ENDEAVOURS TO SUBMIT ITS REPORT WITHIN SIX MONTHS; THE COMMITTEE SHALL HAVE THE POWER TO MAKE SUCH INTERIM RECOMMENDATIONS AS IT CONSIDERS NECESSARY IN THE INTEREST OF THE URGENT PROTECTION OF INVESTORS."

MR JACOBS SAID THE FIRST MEETING OF THE COMMITTEE SHOULD TAKE PLACE WITHIN THE NEXT 10 DAYS.

HE ADDED: "I KNOW THAT THE WHOLE COMMUNITY IN HONG KONG WILL RECOGNISE THE IMPORTANCE OF THE COMMITTEE’S TASK AND THEY WILL I HOPE, GIVE IT EVERY SUPPORT.

"I AM GLAD TO SAY THAT THE CHAIRMEN OF THE STOCK EXCHANGE AND OF THE FUTURES EXCHANGE, ON BEHALF OF THEMSELVES AND OF THE MEMBERS OF THEIR RESPECTIVE COMMITTEES, HAVE PROMISED THEIR FULL CO-OPERATION, AS HAS THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SECURITIES AND COMMODITIES TRADING COMMISSIONS."

THE GOVERNMENT INTENDED TO PUBLISH THE COMMITTEE’S REPORT HE SAID.

HK SHOULD CONTINUE TO PROSPER, SAYS FS * * ♦ » ♦

THERE IS NO DOUBT THAT THE CRISES IN THE WORLD’S FINANCIAL MARKETS HAVE MADE MORE LIKELY SOME SLOWDOWN IN THE GROWTH RATES OF A NUMBER OF MAJOR ECONOMIES AND HONG KONG, WITH ITS HIGH EXPOSURE TO EXTERNAL FORCES, WILL ALMOST CERTAINLY BE AFFECTED, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON PIERS JACOBS, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

MR JACOBS SAID THAT IN SUCH AN EXTERNALLY-ORIENTED ECONOMY, THERE WAS NATURALLY LIMITED SCOPE FOR ACTION, BUT, NEVERTHELESS, HONG KONG’S ECONOMY WAS BASICALLY IN GOOD SHAPE. TRADE WAS GROWING RAPIDLY AND UNEMPLOYMENT WAS LOW.

HE SAID: "AS I HAVE INDICATED IN MY MID YEAR REVIEW AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER - WHICH SEEMS A LONG TIME AGO - SOME OF OUR CURRENT PROBLEMS, NOTABLY INFLATION AND SHORTAGE OF LABOUR, ARE ARISING FROM THE FACT THAT OUR PRODUCTIVE CAPACITY IS HAVING SOME DIFFICULTY IN KEEPING UP WITH DEMAND.

/’’THESE BOTTLENECK

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11t 19^7

“THESE BOTTLENECK PROBLEMS WILL PROBABLY MAKE SOME SLOWING DOWN INEVITABLE. RECENT EVENTS COULD WELL ACCELERATE THE PROCESS.

"BUT PROVIDED THE SLOWDOWN IN OUR ECONOMIC GROWTH IS NOT TOO DRAMATIC, WE SHOULD NOT BE ALARMED. IF WE MAINTAIN OUR CONFIDENCE, AND IF WE ARE LUCKY ENOUGH TO SEE GOVERNMENTS WORLDWIDE PURSUING POLICIES AIMED AT FOSTERING ECONOMIC GROWTH, WHILE ELIMINATING THE IMBALANCES IN THE WORLD ECONOMY, THEN HONG KONG SHOULD CONTINUE TO PROSPER."

MR JACOBS NOTED THAT THE HON THOMAS CLYDESDALE HAD REFERRED TO A PRIVATE SECTOR INITIATIVE TO PRODUCE A FORWARD LOOKING REPORT ON THE ECONOMY. "I HAD HEARD THIS PROPOSAL BEFORE, BUT IN THE LIGHT OF WHAT HE HAS SAID, I SHALL BE HAPPY TO GIVE IT FURTHER CONSIDERATION," MR JACOBS SAID.

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY ALSO NOTED THAT THE HON CHUNG PUI-LAM AND THE HON HO SAI-CHU HAD BOTH MENTIONED THE BENEFITS TO THE ECONOMY THAT HAVE COME FROM ITS INCREASINGLY CLOSE TIES WITH CHINA.

"THESE CLOSER TIES, WHICH ARE EVIDENCED BY THE INCREASED TRADE FLOWS BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA, AND BY THE LARGE NUMBER OF CHINESE WORKERS ENGAGED ON PROCESSING WORK FOR HONG KONG MANUFACTURERS, SHOULD BE WELCOMED FOR HAVING ADDED A NEW AND BENEFICIAL DIMENSION TO OUR ECONOMY," HE SAID.

"AN EVEN GREATER DEGREE OF ECONOMIC INTEGRATION CAN BE EXPECTED IN THE FUTURE AS CHINA CONTINUES TO PURSUE ITS POLICY OF ECONOMIC REFORMS.

"ALTHOUGH IT IS NOT ALWAYS EASY TO PREDICT THE PRECISE WAYS IN WHICH THIS ECONOMIC INTEGRATION WILL DEVELOP, THE GOVERNMENT TAKES THIS TREND INTO ACCOUNT IN ITS PLANNING OF HONG KONG’S INFRASTRUCTURE."

MR JACOBS ALSO DEALT WITH VARIOUS OTHER MATTERS:

DAYA BAY PROJECT

MR JACOBS SAID THE GUANGDONG NUCLEAR POWER JOINT VENTURE COMPANY HAD MADE IT CLEAR THAT WHILE THE RECENT INCIDENT INVOLVING MISSING BARS REVEALED SHORTCOMINGS IN THE QUALITY CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS AT THE DAYA BAY SITE, ALL THE PARTIES INVOLVED IN THE PROJECT REMAIN COMMITTED TO ENSURING THAT BOTH DURING THE CONSTRUCTION AND SUBSEQUENT OPERATION OF THE POWER STATION SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS WILL NOT BE COMPROMISED.

HE ADDED THAT IN SUCH A LARGE AND COMPLEX PROJECT IT WOULD BE UNREALISTIC TO ASSUME THAT PROBLEMS AND MISTAKES WOULD NOT OCCUR.

"WHAT IS IMPORTANT IS THAT WHEN SUCH PROBLEMS DO ARISE, THEY ARE DEALT WITH IN A RATIONAL WAY AND SATISFACTORY REMEDIAL SOLUTIONS ARE DEVELOPED," HE SAID.

/MR JACOBS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 198?

MR JACOBS NOTED THAT THE REPORT ON THE INCIDENT, PREPARED BY THE JOINT VENTURE COMPANY, HAD BEEN CAREFULLY CONSIDERED BY THE LEGCO AD HOC GROUP ON THE DAYA BAY PROJECT. IN ADDITION, THE GROUP WAS GIVEN AN EXTENSIVE BRIEFING ON THE SUBJECT BY ENGINEERS FROM THE COMPANY.

PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE WORK OF THE AD HOC GROUP IN RESPONSE TO THE INCIDENT, HE SAID: "NOT ONLY HAVE THEY SOUGHT INFORMATION ON THE INCIDENT BUT THEY HAVE ENSURED THAT THIS HAS ALSO BEEN MADE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC."

FINANCIAL MATTERS

MR JACOBS SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD LIKE TO RETURN COMMERCIAL BANKS UNDER ITS CONTROL TO PROFITABLE OPERATION AND DISENGAGE ITSELF FROM OWNERSHIP.

"THAT IS WHAT OUR EFFORTS ARE ALL ABOUT," HE SAID IN REPLYING TO A POINT RAISED BY THE HON DAVID LI.

"IN THE MEANTIME, THERE IS NO CONFLICT OR CERTAINLY NONE THAT CANNOT BE EASILY RESOLVED. THE BANKS IN QUESTION MUST COMPLY WITH THE BANKING ORDINANCE JUST LIKE ANY OTHER BANKS."

MR LI HAD QUESTIONED WHETHER THERE WAS A CONFLICT OF INTEREST WHEN THE SECRETARY FOR MONETARY AFFAIRS ACTED "BOTH AS INDUSTRY REGULATOR AND AT THE SAME TIME AS CHAIRMAN OF ...... COMMERCIAL BANKS (UNDER GOVERNMENT OWNERSHIP)" AND WHETHER THIS COULD BE RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNMENT MAKING GREATER EFFORTS IN RETURNING THE BANKS TO PROFITABLE OPERATION AND DISPOSING OF THEM IN THE MARKET.

REFERRING TO ANOTHER POINT MADE BY MR LI, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID THAT ON TAXATION OF HONG KONG DOLLAR CAPITAL MARKET INSTRUMENTS, THE COMMISSIONER OF INLAND REVENUE HAD RECENTLY RECEIVED A FORMAL SUBMISSION FROM THE CAPITAL MARKETS ASSOCIATION.

"THIS AROSE FROM THE CONTINUOUS DIALOGUE ESTABLISHED RECENTLY BETWEEN THE ASSOCIATION AND THE MONETARY AFFAIRS BRANCH," HE SAID.

"THE SUBMISSION WILL BE EXAMINED CAREFULLY. THERE WILL NEED TO BE FURTHER CONSULTATION WITH THE FINANCIAL COMMUNITY." RESOURCE ALLOCATION

DEALING WITH RESOURCE ALLOCATION, MR JACOBS NOTED THAT A NUMBER OF MEMBERS HAD SPOKEN IN SUPPORT OF THE GOVERNMENT’S EFFORTS TO IMPROVE FINANCIAL PLANNING AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR.

HE SAID IT WAS INTENDED TO MAKE THE BEST POSSIBLE USE OF THE MEDIUM TERM FORECAST. "IN ESSENCE, THE FORECAST HAS EXTENDED OUR PLANNING HORIZON AND NOW ENABLES US TO MAKE MORE INFORMED DECISIONS ON THE EXTENT TO WHICH WE HAVE ROOM TO EMBARK ON NEW SERVICES AND TO IMPROVE EXISTING ONES IN FUTURE YEARS. IT IS ABOUT PRIORITIES," HE SAID.

/'EQUALLY IMPORTANT........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 198?

- 5 -

"EQUALLY IMPORTANT IS OUR CONTINUING PROGRAMME OF VALUE FOR MONEY STUDIES. TAKEN TOGETHER, THESE MEASURES COMPRISE A COMPLEX AND AMBITIOUS PROGRAMME OF REFORM, AND I WELCOME THE INTEREST AND SUPPORT THAT HAVE BEEN GIVEN BY MEMBERS TO OUR EFFORTS IN THIS AREA."

TAXATION

ON CALLS MADE BY SOME MEMBERS FOR SEPARATE TAXATION FOR WOMEN, MR JACOBS SAID HE WELCOMED THE COMMENTS THAT HAD BEEN MADE, ADDING; "BUT I AM SURE THAT MEMBERS WOULD NOT WANT ME TO DISCLOSE MY HAND AT THIS STAGE, LET US WAIT FOR A FEW MORE MONTHS."

TRAVEL AND TRAVEL AGENTS

MR JACOBS SAID MUCH WAS BEING DONE IN FACILITATING THE TOURIST INDUSTRY, SO AS TO MAINTAIN THE REPUTATION FOR HIGH STANDARDS OF SERVICE TO THE MILLIONS OF PEOPLE WHO VISITED HONG KONG EVERY YEAR.

HE SAID AT PRESENT THERE WAS A SHORTAGE OF QUALITY HOTEL ROOMS, BUT BY 1990, THERE SHOULD BE AN INCREASE OF NEARLY 45 PER CENT, WITH THE NUMBER OF ROOMS GROWING FROM 20,850 TO 29,800.

"AND TO IMPROVE THE AIRPORT FACILITIES, WE EXPECT TO SEE THE STAGE V EXTENSION TO THE TERMINAL BUILDING COMING ON STREAM IN THE SUMMER OF 1988, THEREBY INCREASING PASSENGER THROUGH-CAPACITY BY 50 PER CENT," HE SAID.

MR JACOBS NOTED THAT THE PRESENT SITUATION IN CLEARING THE AIRPORT AFTER ARRIVAL WAS WHOLLY UNSATISFACTORY. HE SAID AN URGENT REVIEW ON EXISTING IMMIGRATION CLEARANCE PROCEDURES WAS IN PROGRESS TO IMPROVE THE SERVICE.

HE ADDED THAT A NEW COMPUTERISED SYSTEM WOULD BE INTRODUCED IN MID-1988 TO REPLACE THE EXISTING MANUAL IMMIGRATION "WATCH-LIST" CHECK.

CONCERNING PROTECTION FOR THE PUBLIC WHO USED THE SERVICES OF TRAVEL AGENTS, MR JACOBS SAID: "FOR SOME MONTHS, THE ADMINISTRATION, TOGETHER WITH CONCERNED PARTIES HAVE BEEN EXAMINING PROPOSALS TO IMPROVE CONSUMER PROTECTION AND TO PROMOTE GREATER DISCIPLINE WITHIN THE TRAVEL TRADE.

"THE SUBJECT IS NOT EASY BUT WE HOPE TO BE ABLE TO FORMULATE OUR PROPOSALS IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE.

"OUR ULTIMATE OBJECTIVE IS TO ENCOURAGE THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY TO INTRODUCE A VIABLE SYSTEM OF SELF-REGULATION, AND DISCUSSIONS ARE PROCEEDING WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY ON HOW BEST THIS MAY BE ACHIEVED."

-------0--------- /6...................

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

FS: DISASTROUS TO ALLOW FUTURES MARKET TO COLLAPSE * * * * »

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON PIERS JACOBS, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT HE DID NOT WELCOME THE SUSPENSION OF TRADING IN ANY MARKET, BUT THERE WERE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH SUSPENSION OF TRADING WAS UNAVOIDABLE.

REFERRING TO RECENT EVENTS CONCERNING THE STOCK MARKET AND FUTURES MARKET IN HONG KONG, MR JACOBS SAID THAT HONG KONG WAS NOT ALONE IN EXPERIENCING WHAT HAD HAPPENED ON THE MARKETS IN THE PAST THREE WEEKS. ALL FINANCIAL CENTRES HAD BEEN HIT TO A GREATER OR LESSER DEGREE BY THE RECENT WORLDWIDE COLLAPSE TN EQUITY MARKETS.

ON THE POWER OF THE GENERAL COMMITTEE OF THE UNIFIED EXCHANGE TO SUSPEND TRADING, MR JACOBS SAID IT WAS NOT FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO COMMENT ON THE LEGALITY OF ACTIONS BY A PRIVATE INDIVIDUAL, OR COMPANY, PARTICULARLY WHEN THOSE ACTIONS MIGHT BE THE SUBJECT OF DISPUTE.

"I UNDERSTAND, HOWEVER, THAT THE EXCHANGE HAD TAKEN LEGAL ADVICE ON THE LEGALITY OF ITS ACTION."

COMMENTING ON A SUGGESTION THAT URGENT LEGISLATION SHOULD HAVE BEEN PASSED TO ENABLE THE GOVERNMENT TO ORDER THE STOCK MARKET TO REOPEN, MR JACOBS SAID EVEN HAD THIS BEEN DONE, THE RESCUE PACKAGE WOULD STILL HAVE HAD TO FORM PART OF IT.

"AND IT IS MOST UNLIKELY THAT THE MARKETS WOULD HAVE OPENED BEFORE THE MONDAY IN ANY EVENT," HE SAID.

MR JACOBS SAID: "OUR MAIN OBJECTIVE AFTER THE MARKETS CLOSED WAS TO ENSURE THAT THEY REOPENED AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE AND IN AS NORMAL A MANNER AS POSSIBLE. THIS IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH OUR PRIME POLICY OBJECTIVE, WHICH IS TO MAINTAIN THE INTEGRITY OF OUR SECURITIES MARKETS.

"CLEARLY THE MOST IMPORTANT INGREDIENT OF MARKET INTEGRITY IS THE SURVIVAL OF THE MARKET ITSELF, SO THAT PARTICIPANTS CAN CONTINUE TO TRADE NORMALLY.

"IT WOULD HAVE BEEN DISASTROUS, IN MY VIEW, IF WE HAD MERELY ALLOWED THE FUTURES MARKET TO COLLAPSE. THAT WOULD HAVE DONE NOTHING TO SAFEGUARD THE INTERESTS OF INVESTORS IN FUTURES AND WOULD HAVE DONE IMMENSE HARM TO THE REPUTATION OF HONG KONG AS A FINANCIAL CENTRE."

HE SAID THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD CONSIDERED THE POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES OF ALLOWING THE FUTURES EXCHANGE, THE HONG KONG FUTURES GUARANTEE CORPORATION, AND MARKET PARTICIPANTS IN THE HANG SENG INDEX FUTURES MARKET TO FIND A SOLUTION BY THEMSELVES.

/BUT THE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 111 1987

BUT THE LIKELY "SOLUTION”, IN THE ABSENCE OF THE GOVERNMENT’S INVOLVEMENT, WAS ONE THAT REQUIRED A CLOSING OUT OF CONTRACTS AT AN ARBITRARY PRICE. ’’THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN A SERIOUS KNOCK ON EFFECT IN THE STOCK MARKET ITSELF, THE LIKELY PERMANENT CLOSURE OF THE FUTURES MARKET, AND SERIOUS DAMAGE TO HONG KONG’S CONTINUANCE AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE.”

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY ALSO SAID THAT HE HAD CONSIDERED THE POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES HAD THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION NOT BEEN ABLE TO MEET ITS OBLIGATIONS WHEN TRADING ON THE FUTURES EXCHANGE RESUMED.

HE SAID: "IT WAS CLEAR TO ME THAT THIS WOULD HAVE LED TO A COMPLETE COLLAPSE OF THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION AND THE FUTURES EXCHANGE.

"WITH THE CLOSE LINKS BETWEEN THE FUTURES EXCHANGE AND THE STOCK EXCHANGE THROUGH THE HEDGING ON HANG SENG INDEX FUTURES OF PHYSICAL HOLDING OF SHARES, THERE WAS ALSO A SERIOUS RISK THAT THE STOCK EXCHANGE WOULD BE SIMILARLY AFFECTED.

"HAD THIS HAPPENED, THERE WOULD DOUBTLESSLY HAVE BEEN A MASSIVE OUTFLOW OF CAPITAL, WHICH WOULD IN TURN HAVE CREATED UNACCEPTABLE PRESSURE ON THE EXCHANGE VALUE OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR."

ANSWERING CRITICISM ON THE USE OF THE EXCHANGE FUND, MR JACOBS SAID IT WAS HIS RESPONSIBILITY AS FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO USE THE EXCHANGE FUND "FOR SUCH PURPOSES AS THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY THINKS FIT” TO STABILISE THE EXCHANGE VALUE OF OUR CURRENCY.

HE NOTED THAT PRIOR TO THE FORMAL INVOLVEMENT OF THE GOVERNMENT IN TALKS LEADING TO THE RESCUE PACKAGE, THERE HAD BEEN ADVERSE PRESSURE ON THE EXCHANGE RATE REQUIRING SUBSTANTIAL INTERVENTION FROM THE EXCHANGE FUND. "IT IS SIGNIFICANT THAT ON THE EMERGENCE OF THE RESCUE PACKAGE THAT PRESSURE EASED," HE SAID.

ON HIS NOT HAVING CONSULTED WITH THE EXCHANGE FUND ADVISORY COMMITTEE, MR JACOBS SAID HE WAS NOT REQUIRED BY SECTION 3(1) OF THE EXCHANGE FUND ORDINANCE TO CONSULT WHENEVER HE USED THE EXCHANGE FUND, ADDING THAT IT WOULD BE IMPRACTICAL TO DO SO.

AS TO WHETHER THE GOVERNMENT COULD HAVE PRESSED THE SHAREHOLDERS OF THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION TO CONTRIBUTE MORE TO THE PACKAGE, MR JACOBS SAID HE WAS SATISFIED WITH AND GRATEFUL FOR THE SUPPORT GIVEN BY THE SHAREHOLDERS OF THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION, A NUMBER OF BROKERS AND MEMBERS OF THE FUTURES EXCHANGE, AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST, THE BANK OF CHINA.

HE ALSO DREW ATTENTION TO THE FACT THAT THE FIRST TWO CREDIT FACILITIES OF $1 BILLION : THAT IS, THE HK$1 BILLION PROVIDED BY THE SHAREHOLDERS OF THE GUARANTEE CORPORATION, A NUMBER OF BROKERS AND MEMBERS OF THE FUTURES EXCHANGE AND THE HK$1 BILLION PROVIDED BY THE EXCHANGE FUND, WERE STRUCTURED TN SUCH A WAY THAT ANY FUNDS LOANED FROM THE EXCHANGE FUND WERE THE LAST TO BE USED AND THE FIRST TO BE REPAID.

/AS TO .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

AS TO THE ADDITIONAL CREDIT FACILITY OF HK$2 BILLION, THESE FUNDS WOULD NOT BE CALLED UPON UNLESS AND UNTIL THE INITIAL HK$2 BILLION HAD BEEN FULLY DRAWN.

COMMENTING ON THE DOUBT OF THE NEED FOR A STOCK INDEX FUTURES MARKET IN HONG KONG, MR JACOBS SAID THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT POSITIVELY ENCOURAGE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THIS MARKET, BUT ON THE OTHER HAND DID NOT WISH TO FRUSTRATE ITS PROPERLY REGULATED DEVELOPMENT.

HE SAID WHEN THE DECISION TO ESTABLISH THIS MARKET WAS MADE, IT WAS ACCEPTED THAT HONG KONG NEEDED TO KEEP ABREAST OF DEVELOPMENTS IN OTHER FINANCIAL CENTRES AND THAT AN INDEX FUTURES CONTRACT WOULD HAVE POSITIVE IMPACT ON INVESTORS’ INTEREST IN THE HONG KONG STOCK MARKET, PARTICULARLY THROUGH HEDGING THE VALUE OF SHARES AGAINST UNPREDICTABLE MARKET MOVEMENTS.

WHILE RECOGNISING THE DISADVANTAGES’ INCLUDING THE POSSIBILITY OF THE INVESTING PUBLIC TAKING UNWISE RISKS AND THE POSSIBLITY OF MANIPULATING THE INDEX, MR JACOBS SAIDIT WAS THE CONSENSUS VIEW OF ALL PARTIES AT THAT TIME THAT THE ADVANTAGES OUTWEIGHED THE DISADVANTAGES.

HE NOTED THAT AFTER RECENT EVENTS BOTH HERE AND OVERSEAS, PEOPLE’S PERCEPTION OF THIS TYPE OF MARKET WOULD CHANGE IN A WAY OR TO AN EXTENT THAT THE DEMAND FOR A FUTURES MARKET WOULD DIMINISH.

HOWEVER, IT WAS NOT FOR THE GOVERNMENT ARTIFICIALLY TO CREATE OR SUPPRESS THE DEMAND FOR IT, HE SAID.

-----0------

IMPORTANT STUDIES ON AIRPORT IN PROGRESS

*****

INITIAL DECISIONS ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF A REPLACEMENT AIRPORT COULD BE TAKEN TOWARDS THE END OF 1988 BECAUSE BY THAT TIME THERE WILL BE A BETTER KNOWLEDGE ABOUT KAI TAK AND THE MAXIMUM LENGTH OF TIME DURING WHICH IT WILL CONTINUE TO SERVE OUR NEEDS ADEQUATELY, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON PIERS JACOBS, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING, MR JACOBS SAID TWO IMPORTANT STUDIES ON THE AIRPORT WERE IN PROGRESS.

"THE FIRST RELATES TO THE LIFE SPAN OF KAI TAK AND WHAT CAN BE DONE TO IMPROVE THE PRESENT FACILITIES. THIS CONSULTANCY SHOULD BE COMPLETED BY THE THIRD QUARTER OF NEXT YEAR.

/"THE SECOND

WEDNESDAY, NOVfcMBER 11, 1987

“THE SECOND STUDY IS THE PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY STUDY, WHICH WILL NOT BE COMPLETED BEFORE 1989. IT IS THE LATTER STUDY THAT WILL EXAMINE THE FEASIBILITY OF ESTABLISHING A COMBINED PORT AND AIRPORT FACILITY WITH SHARED INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT NETWORKS AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT,” MR JACOBS SAID.

HE NOTED THAT SOME MEMBERS HAD URGED THE NECESSITY FOR AN EARLY DECISION, AND HE SHARED THEIR VIEWS.

"BUT A PROJECT OF THIS MAGNITUDE MUST BE APPROACHED IN AN ORDERLY MANNER IF IT IS TO SERVE THE ECONOMIC INTERESTS OF THE COMMUNITY. NEVERTHELESS, WE WILL DO ALL WE CAN TO SPEED UP THE PROCESS,” HE SAID.

CONCERNING THE ADDITIONAL FACILITIES AT THE CONTAINER PORT, MR JACOBS SAID WHEN THE CONSTRUCTION WAS COMPLETED IN 1993, TERMINALS 6 AND 7 BETWEEN THEM WOULD ALMOST DOUBLE KWAI CHUNG'S CONTAINER HANDLING CAPACITY.

HE SAID BY THE END OF NEXT YEAR, THERE WOULD BE INFORMATION AVAILABLE TO DECIDE ON THE LOCATIONS OF TERMINALS 8 AND 9.

MR JACOBS SAID, ’’THE CONTAINER PORT IS UNDER GREAT PRESSURE AND I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT WE SHALL NEED THESE ADDITIONAL FACILITIES.

“KWAI CHUNG, IN TERMS OF THROUGHPUT, IS NOW THE SECOND BUSIEST CONTAINER PORT IN THE WORLD, AND IF THE TREND CONTINUES, IT WILL NOT BE LONG BEFORE WE HOLD THE NO. 1 PLACE.

“THE ABILITY TO MOVE OUR IMPORTS AND EXPORTS EFFICIENTLY IS OF VITAL IMPORTANCE TO OUR ECONOMIC WELL-BEING.”

-------0 ---------

GOVERNMENT TOTALLY COMMITTED TO HK PEOPLE -- CS * ♦ * ♦ »

THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) REFUTED ALLEGATIONS THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS RELINQUISHING ITS AUTHORITY OVER THE GOVERNMENT OF HONG KONG, DECEIVING ITS PEOPLE AND LACKING MORAL FIBRE.

SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ADDRESS, HE SAID THE ACCUSATIONS MADE AGAINST THE GOVERNMENT WERE GRAVE INDEED.

“THEY CANNOT RE TAKEN LIGHTLY OR DISMISSED SIMPLY AS PART OF THE CUT AND THRUST OF POLITICAL DEBATE," HE SAID.

/’•I REFUTE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 198?

"I REFUTE THEM IN THE STRONGEST POSSIBLE TERMS. THOSE WHO CONTINUE TO MAKE THEM IN THE MISGUIDED BELIEF THAT THEY ARE DEALING WITH A LAME DUCK WILL DISCOVER THAT THEY HAVE A TIGER BY THE TAIL, AND NOT A PAPER TIGER EITHER.”

MR FORD ALSO STRESSED THAT THE ADMINISTRATION WAS TOTALLY COMMITTED AND DEDICATED TO FURTHERING THF INTERESTS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.

•'THAT HAS ALWAYS BEEN OUR PRIMARY CONCERN AND REMAINS SO TODAY. I KNOW I SPEAK FOR THE WHOLE OF THE ADMINISTRATION, SIR, WHEN I SAY THAT WE DEEPLY RESENT THE FACT THAT OUR INTEGRITY AND MOTIVATION HAS BEEN CALLED INTO QUESTION,” HE ADDED.

HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS NOT AFRAID OF CRITICISM.

"WE ARE QUITE WILLING TO ADMIT THAT WE MAY NOT GET EVERYTHING RIGHT. INDEED, WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON BEING A FREE SOCIETY WHERE DEBATE IS ENCOURAGED AND PEOPLE CAN SPEAK UP AGAINST THF. GOVERNMENT.”

BUT THAT FREEDOM ALSO INCLUDED THE RIGHT OF THE GOVERNMENT TO REPLY TO CRITICISM, HE SAID.

THE CHIEF SECRETARY WAS REFERRING TO ACCUSATIONS MADE BY THE HON MARTIN LEE AND THE HON PANG CHUN-HOI WHO "HAVE ATTACKED NOT JUST THE ACTIONS AND POLICIES OF THIS GOVERNMENT, BUT HAVE QUESTIONED ITS INTEGRITY."

"SUCH ASSERTIONS CANNOT GO UNANSWERED," MR FORD SAID.

MR LEE ALSO SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNOR HAD INVITED CHINESE INTERVENTION IN HONG KONG DURING HIS LAST VISIT TO PEKING.

THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID MR LEE DID NOT EXPLAIN HOW HE REACHED THIS REMARKABLE CONCLUSION.

MR FORD SAID HE BELIEVED THAT A BARRISTER WAS TRAINED TO PUT HIS ARGUMENTS ON THE BASIS OF FACT AND EVIDENCE.

"YET MR LEE, IN HIS SPEECH, RELIED ON INSINUATION AND INNUENDO WITH NOT A SINGLE SHRED OF EVIDENCE TO SUPPORT HIS SO-CALLED ’CASE’ AGAINST THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT."

MR FORD NOTED THAT THE GOVERNOR’S ADDRESS HAD PROVIDED CLEAR EVIDENCE OF THE GOVERNMENT’S SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY AND ITS DETERMINATION TO GOVERN HONG KONG IN THE OVERALL BEST INTERESTS OF THE COMMUNITY.

"MANY OF OUR PROGRAMMES AND PLANS ARE DESIGNED TO BRING BENEFITS WELL BEYOND THE END OF THIS CENTURY," HE SAID.

/’•THIS REFLECTS

WEDNESDAY, NOVIMBER 11, 1987

"THIS REFLECTS THE SOLEMN OBLIGATION WHICH THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT HAS ACCEPTED UNDER THE JOINT DECLARATION, THAT IT WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF HONG KONG WITH THE OBJECT OF MAINTAINING AND PRESERVING ITS ECONOMIC PROSPERITY AND SOCIAL STABILITY.

' "IT IS ALSO AN IMPORTANT FACT THAT THE CONTINUATION OF GOOD GOVERNMENT UP TO AND BEYOND 1997 DEPENDS VERY HEAVILY ON THE EXISTING BODY OF PUBLIC SERVANTS AND ADVISERS."

THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS NOT A MACHINE.

"IT IS MADE UP OF PEOPLE: PEOPLE WHO CARE ABOUT THE FUTURE, WHO CARE ABOUT THE FUTURE OF THEIR CHILDREN; PEOPLE WHO, ABOVE ALL, CARE DEEPLY ABOUT HONG KONG.

"YET IT IS THESE VERY PEOPLE WHOM MR LEE AND MR PANG HAVE SOUGHT TO DENIGRATE IN THEIR SPEECHES.

"IT IS ALSO INCUMBENT UPON THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE SOUND ADMINISTRATION IN THE TERRITORY, AND TO EXERCISE RESPONSIBLY THE HIGH DEGREE OF AUTONOMY WHICH IT ALREADY ENJOYS UNDER THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT AND WHICH THE GOVERNMENT OF THE FUTURE HONG KONG SAR WILL ENJOY UNDER THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT. WE ARE DETERMINED TO MEET THAT REQUIREMENT."

MR FORD SAID MR LEE AND MR PANG DID A GRAVE DISSERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY BY TRYING TO UNDERMINE THE CREDIBILITY OF THE ADMINISTRATION.

"FOR THE LIFE OF ME I FIND IT DIFFICULT TO SEE WHAT THEY HOPE TO ACHIEVE.

"IF THEY ARE PLAYING POLITICS THEY ARE INDEED PLAYING A DANGEROUS GAME, BECAUSE THE FACT IS THAT THE STABILITY AND PROSPERITY OF THIS COMMUNITY DEPENDS ON THE CREDIBILITY AND AUTHORITY OF THIS ADMINISTRATION.

"THIS GOVERNMENT DOES NOT NEED TO BE REMINDED OF ITS DUTY BY MR LEE AND MR PANG.

"EVERY SENIOR MEMBER OF THIS GOVERNMENT IS ACUTELY AWARE THAT WE MUST RETAIN THE TRUST OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG; THAT EVERY POLICY, EVERY ACTION AND EVERY MOVE THAT WE MAKE MUST HAVE THE SUPPORT, AND BE IN THE INTEREST OF, THE MAJORITY OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.

"INDEED, OUR ABILITY TO GOVERN DEPENDS AS MUCH NOW, AS IT HAS IN THE PAST, UPON THAT TRUST AND THAT SUPPORT," HE ADDED.

-----0-----

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

CS: STRONG ENDORSEMENT OF GOVERNOR’S POLICIES, PLANS

* t ♦ » »

IT IS CLEAR FROM THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN THE DERATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ANNUAL ADDRESS THAT, ON THE WHOLE, THE POLICIES AND PLANS THAT THE GOVERNOR HAS DESCRIBED HAVE RECEIVED THE STRONG ENDORSEMENT OF THE COUNCIL, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

WINDING UP DEBATE ON THE ADDRESS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR FORD SPOKE ON A RANGE OF SUBJECTS THAT WERE COMMENTED ON BY MEMBERS LAST WEEK. THESE INCLUDED THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT ON THE PUBLIC’S VIEWS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT, THE CIVIL SERVICE,THE ROLE OF ADVISORY BODIES, HONGKONG’S RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA AND THE ADMINISTRATION AS A WHOLE.

ON THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT, MR FORD SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD BE STUDYING ALL THE VIEWS SENT TN TO THE SURVEY OFFICE WITH GREAT CARE.

HE SAID THE RELEASE OF THE REPORT HAD REKINDLED THE PUBLIC DEBATE ON WHETHER DIRECT ELECTIONS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SHOULD BE INTRODUCED NEXT YEAR.

"AS THE REPORT ITSELF INDICATES, THIS IS AN ISSUE ON WHICH VIEWS WITHIN THE COMMUNITY REMAIN DIVIDED," HE SAID.

NOTING THAT IT WAS NOT SURPRISING THAT THERE WERE DIFFERENCES OF VIEW ON THE PACE OF POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT, MR FORD SAID THE WAY TO RESOLVE THESE DIFFERENCES LAY IN CAREFUL ANALYSIS AND RATIONAL DISCUSSION, BUT NOT IN PRETENDING THAT A VIEW WHICH WAS DIFFERENT FROM ONE’S OWN EITHER DID NOT EXIST OR HAD BEEN FABRICATED BY A THIRD PARTY WITH ULTERIOR MOTIVES.

HE SAID: "IT IS A GREAT PITY THAT SOME PEOPLE HAVE SOUGHT TO CAST SERIOUS DOUBT ON THE INTEGRITY OF THE SURVEY OFFICE AND ON THE SINCERITY OF THE GOVERNMENT’S WISH TO CONSULT THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.

"THESE ALLEGATIONS HAVE NO BASIS IN FACT. THE GREEN PAPER ON THE 1987 REVIEW IS THERE FOR ALL TO SEE. SO IS THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT. THEY ARE NOT SIMPLE DOCUMENTS, BECAUSE THE ISSUES WITH WHICH THEY ARE CONCERNED ARE NOT SIMPLE, AS SOME COMMENTATORS WOULD HAVE US BEL1EVE.

"BUT EVERYONE WHO IS INTERESTED IN THE TRUTH CAN STUDY THEM AND FORM HIS OWN CONCLUSION ABOUT THE GENUINENESS OF THE REVIEW."

-----0-----

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

TIMELY TO ENSURE ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE IS IN GOOD SHAPE

*****

THE TOP MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE OF THE CIVIL SERVICE WILL BE REVIEWED TO ENSURE THAT IT IS CAPABLE NOT ONLY OF PROVIDING STABLE AND CONSISTENT GOVERNMENT, BUT ALSO OF MANAGING AND COPING WITH CHANGE, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON DAVID FORD, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

"THE DIRECTORATE PAY LEVEL SURVEY WHICH WAS UNDERTAKEN LAST YEAR REVEALED THAT THE STRUCTURE IS CLEARLY UNDER PRESSURE," HE SAID WHEN WINDING UP DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS.

"THERE IS LITTLE DOUBT THAT THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT AND THE RUN-UP TO 1997 WILL ADD TO THIS PRESSURE. IT IS THEREFORE TIMELY TO TAKE ANOTHER GOOD LOOK AT THE STRUCTURE, WITH A VIEW TO ENSURING THAT IT IS IN THE BEST POSSIBLE SHAPE TO COPE WITH THE DEMANDS BEING MADE UPON IT, BOTH NOW AND IN THE FUTURE."

MR FORD SAID THE CONSULTANCY UNDERTAKING THE REVIEW WOULD BE CONCERNED MAINLY WITH EXAMINING THE TOP MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE, ESSENTIALLY THE POLICY BRANCHES OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT AND THEIR RELATIONSHIPS WITH THF. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND THE EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS UNDER THEIR CONTROL.

REFERRING TO THE COMMENT ON CONCENTRATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS IN THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT. MR FORD SAID THAT WAS INEVITABLE GIVEN THE POLICY FORMULATION ROLE OF THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT.

HOWEVER, HE AGREED THAT ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS SHOULD HAVE EXPERIENCE OF DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE PUBLIC.

MR FORD SAID THAT BY REGULAR POSTINGS, ALL ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS SHOULD HAVE EXPERIENCE OF WORKING BOTH IN FRONT-LINE JOBS IN DEPARTMENTS AND AT POLICY DESKS IN THE SECRETARIAT.

RESPONDING TO A SUGGESTION THAT PROCEDURES FOR DEALING WITH IRRESPONSIBLE AND INEFFICIENT CIVIL SERVANTS SHOULD BE PUT IN PLACE, MR FORD SAID: "THESE ARE ALREADY WELL-ESTABLISHED UNDER CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS AND THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION’S ADVICE IS SOUGHT ON DISCIPLINARY CASES.

"PUNISHMENT CAN RANGE FROM FORMAL WARNINGS TO COMPULSORY RETIREMENT IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST OR DISMISSAL TN MORE SERIOUS CASES.

"THE POWERS ARE CERTAINLY USED AND DURING 1986-87, 26 OFFICERS WERE COMPULSORILY RETIRED AND 190 DISMISSED FOR INCOMPETENCE, SERIOUS DISCIPLINARY OFFENCES OR ON OTHER GROUNDS."

/ON STABILITY .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

ON STABILITY AND CONTINUITY IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE, MR FORD SAID THERE HAD ONLY BEEN THREE RESIGNATIONS FROM DIRECTORATE OFFICERS IN THE PAST YEAR, OUT OF A TOTAL STRENGTH OF OVER A THOUSAND.

THE WASTAGE RATE IN THE SERVICE AS A WHOLE HAD DECLINED FROM SIX PER CENT 10 YEARS AGO TO THREE PER CENT IN THE LAST TWO YEARS.

IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN CLOSE CONTACT AND BETTER UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE ADMINISTRATION AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR, MR FORD SAID THE ADMINISTRATION HAD AN ON-GOING PROGRAMME TO SECOND OFFICERS TO LOCAL FIRMS, THE UK CIVIL SERVICE, AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS TO ENABLE THEM TO ACQUIRE WIDER EXPERIENCE.

HE SAID THAT THE ADMINISTRATION ALSO INVITED MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO PARTICIPATE IN THE THREE-MONTH LONG SENIOR STAFF COURSES ORGANISED FOR THE SENIOR PROFESSIONAL AND DIRECTORATE OFFICERS OF THE CIVIL SERVICE.

"I BELIEVE GOVERNMENT OFFICERS AND THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR ARE BENEFITTTNG FROM THE OPPORTUNITY THIS PROVIDES FOR THEM TO EXCHANGE IDEAS ON A WIDE RANGE OF HONG KONG PROBLEMS," HE ADDED.

-------o ---------

FORMATION OF ADVISORY BODIES WILL NOT LESSEN RESPONSIBILITIES

*****

THE ESTABLISHMENT OF ADVISORY AND STATUTORY BODIES WILL IN NO WAY DETRACT FROM THE GOVERNMENT’S AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY TO GOVERN, OR ALTER THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE ADMINISTRATION, THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ANNUAL ADDRESS, MR FORD REFUTED SUGGESTIONS THAT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF SUCH BODIES WAS A MEANS WHEREBY THE GOVERNMENT COULD OFFLOAD ITS RESPONSIBILITIES, PARTICULARLY FOR TAKING UNPOPULAR DECISIONS, OR THAT IT WAS A CLANDESTINE WAY OF EFFECTING FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES TO THE PATTERN OF RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN THE DIFFERENT ARMS OF GOVERNMENT.

HE SAID IN ASSESSING THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY AND FORMULATING ITS POLICIES TO MEET THOSE NEEDS, IT HAD BEEN THE GOVERNMENT’S PRACTICE REGULARLY TO EXAMINE THE COMPOSITION AND WORKING OF ITS ADVISORY COMMITTEES, SO AS TO ENSURE THAT THEY CONTINUED TO FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY AND TO FULFIL A GENUINE PURPOSE. HE ADDED THAT CHANGES WERE INTRODUCED WHERE NECESSARY TO MEET NEW SITUATIONS.

/"THE ESTABLISHMENT

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 19^7

- 15 -

"THE ESTABLISHMENT OF STATUTORY BODIES WITH SOME EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS, AND WITH THE AUTHORITY IN SOME CASES TO PROPOSE POLICY CHANGES, WAS PART OF THIS PROCESS," HE NOTED.

MR FORD SAID THAT IN ESTABLISHING THESE BODIES, THE GOVERNMENT'S AIM WAS TO ENSURE THAT IT WAS BETTER PLACED TO RESPOND PROMPTLY AND FLEXIBLY TO CHANGES IN DEMAND FOR ITS SERVICES, AND THAT ITS ADVISERS WERE BETTER PLACED TO OFFER ADVICE ON POLICY ISSUES ON THE BASIS OF DIRECT KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE OF THE WAY IN WHICH THESE SERVICES WERE DELIVERED ON THE GROUND.

"THE ESTABLISHMENT OF STATUTORY BODIES WITH A LARGE ELEMENT OF MEMBERSHIP FROM OUTSIDE THE PUBLIC SERVICE IS AN EFFECTIVE WAY OF BRINGING THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS CLOSER TO THE PUBLIC AND MUST, I BELIEVE, BE A WELCOME DEVELOPMENT," HE SAID.

MR FORD ADDED THAT ALTHOUGH THE STATUTORY BODIES WERE GIVEN DECISION-MAKING POWERS, THE GOVERNMENT REMAINED RESPONSIBLE FOR DETERMINING THE BROAD POLICIES WHICH PROVIDED THE FRAMEWORK FOR SUCH OPERATIONAL DECISIONS.

HE SAID: "MEMBERS OF THE ADMINISTRATION WILL CONTINUE TO SERVE AS MEMBERS ON THESE BODIES, AND ALL THESE BODIES WILL HAVE AS THEIR EXECUTIVE ARMS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS STAFFED BY PUBLIC SERVANTS.

"ANY POLICY PROPOSALS WHICH ARE BASED ON THEIR RECOMMENDATIONS AND WHICH REQUIRE THE ENACTMENT OF LEGISLATION OR THE VOTING OF FUNDS WILL REQUIRE THE APPROVAL OF THIS COUNCIL OR ITS FINANCE COMMITTEE."

"THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THESE BODIES WILL THEREFORE IN NO WAY DETRACT FROM THE GOVERNMENT’S AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY TO GOVERN, OR ALTER THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE ADMINISTRATION, THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL."

-----0------

LINKS WITH CHINA WILL CONTINUE TO DEVELOP

* ♦ * »

A SOUND WORKING RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA HAS ALWAYS BEEN ESSENTIAL TO HONG KONG’S STABILITY AND PROGRESS, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON DAVID FORD, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

MR FORD SAID THIS, HOWEVER, WAS NOT TO SUGGEST THAT THIS FACT "DOMINATES OUR THINKING OR THE WAY IN WHICH WE GOVERN HONG KONG."

"IT IS A CLEAR DUTY TO ENSURE THAT THE INTERESTS OF HONG KONG PEOPLE ARE PARAMOUNT AND REMAIN SO," HE NOTED.

/WINDING UP .......

WEDNESDAY, WOTBBffi 11, 198?

- 16 -

WINDING UP THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ADDRESS, MR FORD SAID OUR LINKS WITH CHINA IN THE POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC FIELDS WOULD NO DOUBT CONTINUE TO DEVELOP, NOT ONLY AS A CONSEQUENCE OF THE S1NO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION, BUT ALSO AS A CONSEQUENCE OF CHINA’S OWN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND OF HONG KONG’S ROLE AS A GATEWAY BETWEEN CHINA AND THE OUTSIDE WORLD.

HE SAID: "IN THE RUN UP TO 1997, THE BRITISH AND CHINESE GOVERNMENTS ARE BOTH CONCERNED WITH MAINTAINING THE STABILITY AND PROSPERITY OF THE TERRITORY AND WITH ENSURING A SMOOTH TRANSFER TO GOVERNMENT IN 1997. THIS CAN BEST BE ACHIEVED BY ENSURING THAT THERE IS MAXIMUM CONTINUITY OF ADMINISTRATION BEFORE AND AFTER 1997.

"THIS IS CLEARLY ENVISAGED IN THE JOINT DECLARATION. IT IS THUS NOT ONLY ENTIRELY REASONABLE BUT ALSO QUITE ESSENTIAL THAT THERE SHOULD BE CLOSE CONTACT AND EXCHANGES OF VIEWS BETWEEN THE TWO SIDES, THROUGH FORMAL AND INFORMAL CHANNELS."

MR FORD SAID THAT WE SHOULD NOT BE FEARFUL OF THESE DEVELOPMENTS, ADDING THAT HONG KONG’S RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA HAD DEVELOPED STEADILY IN A PRACTICAL AND PRAGMATIC WAY.

-----0------

GOVT PURSUING REPATRIATION SOLUTION TO REFUGEE PROBLEM ♦ * * * »

THE SOLUTION THE GOVERNMENT IS PURSUING IN TACKLING THE PROBLEM OF VIETNAMESE REFUGEES IS TO SCREEN NEW ARRIVALS AND TO REPATRIATE ALL THOSE WHO CANNOT ESTABLISH THEY ARE GENUINE REFUGEES, PROVIDED THAT THE GOVERNMENT CAN BE SATISFIED THAT THEY WILL NOT BE TREATED INHUMANELY.

THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON DAVID JEAFFRESON, DURING THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ANNUAL ADDRESS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

NOTING THAT IT WAS MEETING THIS PROVISO THAT WAS CURRENTLY HOLDING UP FURTHER PROGRESS, MR JEAFFRESON SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO DO EVERYTHING IT COULD TO GET ITS POLICY ON REPATRIATION ACCEPTED.

"MEANWHILE, WE WILL CONTINUE DOING EVERYTHING WE CAN TO ENCOURAGE THE RESETTLEMENT COUNTRIES TO TAKE MORE FEFUGEES FROM HONG KONG.

/"AND WE .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 17 -

"AND WE BADLY NEED THEIR HELP. OUR VIETNAMESE REFUGEE POPULATION IS NOW 9,366 COMPARED WITH 7,630 IN MAY THIS YEAR," HE SAID.

MR JEAFFRESON SAID THE GOVERNMENT THEREFORE MUST MAINTAIN THE CLOSED CENTRES AS A DETERRENT.

HE NOTED, HOWEVER, THAT AS SOON AS THE GOVERNMENT COULD IMPLEMENT ITS POLICY ON REPATRIATING NEW ARRIVALS, IT WOULD BE PUTTING FORWARD PROPOSALS DESIGNED TOWARDS OPENING UP THE CLOSED CENTRES.

ON RESETTLEMENT OF VR’S, MR JEAFFRESON SAID THE RESETTLEMENT COUNTRIES NOW HAD STRICT LIMITATIONS ON THE NUMBERS AND THE SORT OF REFUGEES THEY WERE PREPARED TO TAKE.

HE SAID: "ONE OF THE REASONS FOR THE DECLINE IN RESETTLEMENT SO FAR THIS YEAR IS THAT FAR FEWER ARRIVALS ARE QUALIFYING UNDER THE CRITERIA THE RESETTLEMENT COUNTRIES APPLY TO DETERMINE WHO THEY WILL TAKE FOR RESETTLEMENT.

"THE MAJORITY OF THOSE NOW ARRIVING ARE NORTHERNERS WITH NO RELATIVES IN THE RESETTLEMENT COUNTRIES. AS THINGS ARE, THERE IS LITTLE HOPE OF THEIR EVER BEING RESETTLED."

MR JEAFFRESON ADDED THAT THERE HAD BEEN A DECLINE OF 50 PER CENT IN RESETTLEMENT COMPARED WITH LAST YEAR.

HE SAID THAT THE BASIC REASON WHY THE RESETTLEMENT COUNTRIES WERE NOW HAVING SUCH DIFFICULTIES IN MEETING THEIR OBLIGATIONS AS FAR AS REFUGEES IN HONG KONG WERE CONCERNED WAS THE PROBLEMS THEY WERE ENCOUNTERING IN RESPECT OF REFUGEES FROM OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD.

"IF, FOR THIS REASON, THERE CAN’T BE RESETTLEMENT OF VIETNAMESE REFUGEES FROM HONG KONG, THEN THE ALTERNATIVE IS TO SEEK DURABLE SOLUTIONS TO THE PROBLEM OF DISORDERLY DEPARTURES FROM VIETNAM."

MR JEAFFRESON SAID SINCE 1975 SOME 120,000 BOAT PEOPLE HAD ARRIVED IN HONG KONG AND MORE THAN 112,000 OF THEM HAD BEEN RESETTLED.

"THE UNITED STATES ALONE HAS RESETTLED MORE THAN 63,000 REFUGEES FROM HONG KONG, AND MORE THAN 25 OTHER COUNTRIES HAVE HELPED US. "

ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM CHINA, MR JEAFFRESON STRESSSED THAT "ALL Il’S ARE, AND WILL CONTINUE TO BE, RETURNED TO CHINA".

HE SAID HE WOULD LIKE TO WARN POTENTIAL ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT NOT TO TRY TO ENTER HONG KONG, ADDING THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S ANTI-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION MEASURES WERE VERY EFFECTIVE.

/HE SAID

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 18 -

HE SAID MOST Il’S WOULD BE ARRESTED ON THE BORDER, AND UP TO THE END OF LAST MONTH A TOTAL OF 18,564 HAD BEEN CAUGHT THIS.YEAR.

HE NOTED THAT THE FEW THAT MANAGED TO SLIP THROUGH WOULD BE ARRESTED IN HONG KONG.

"OVER THE SAME PERIOD WE FOUND 3,432 SUCH EVADERS, AS WE CALL THEM. AS THEY DO NOT HAVE IDENTIFY CARDS WE ARE SURE WE GET ALL THESE EVADERS IN THE END." *

ON BRITISH NATIONAL (OVERSEAS) PASSPORT, MR JEAFFRESON SAID THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT, BRITISH MISSIONS OVERSEAS AND THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT HAD DONE A GREAT DEAL TO EXPLAIN THE NEW PASSPORT TO THIRD COUNTRIES.

HE SAID: "SINCE MAY, SPECIMEN PASSPORTS HAVE BEEN HANDED OVER TO THE GOVERNMENTS OF THIRD COUNTRIES, BOTH IN HONG KONG AND IN THEIR CAPITALS. THE NEW PASSPORT SHOULD BY NOW BE A BRITISH TRAVEL DOCUMENT WELL KNOWN TO IMMIGRATION STAFF.

"TO DATE, MORE THAN 14,500 BN(O) PASSPORTS HAVE BEEN APPLIED FOR. WE HAVE NO REASON WHATSOEVER TO BELIEVE THAT BN(O) PASSPORT HOLDERS HAVE IN PRACTICE ENCOUNTERED ANY DIFFICULTIES IN THEIR TRAVELS.

"BUT WE WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR THE SITUATION VERY CLOSELY. BOTH THE BRITISH AND THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENTS WILL REACT IMMEDIATELY IF ANY PROBLEMS DO ARISE," HE ADDED.

TO FACILITATE THE REPORTING OF ANY PROBLEMS TRAVELLERS ENCOUNTER WITH THE BN(O) PASSPORT AND TO ANSWER ANY ENQUIRIES ON THE NEW PASSPORT, MR JEAFFRESON SAID THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT WAS IN THE PROCESS OF SETTING UP A "HOT LINE".

"WE SHALL PUBLICISE THE TELEPHONE NUMBER AS SOON AS THE LINE IS IN OPERATION," HE NOTED.

MR JEAFFRESON SAID HE WOULD LIKE TO REMIND THOSE FACED WITH THE CHOICE OF APPLYING FOR A BDTC PASSPORT OR A BN(O) PASSPORT THAT THE VALIDITY OF A BDTC PASSPORT WOULD NOT RUN BEYOND JUNE 30, 1997 AND THEY WILL HAVE TO CHANGE TO A BN(O) ONE BEFORE THAT DATE IF THEY WISHED TO CONTINUE TO TRAVEL ON A BRITISH TRAVEL DOCUMENT.

"BY CONTRAST, THE BN(O) PASSPORT WILL BE VALID FOR 10 YEARS. IT WILL ALSO, DON’T FORGET, BE A PROOF OF NATIONALITY."

ON THE ACCEPTABLILITY OF THE BN(O) PASSPORT, MR JEAFFRESON SAID THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT EXPLAINED THE NEW PASSPORT TO THE GOVERNMENTS OF 141 COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD AND THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXPLAINED IT TO THE 73 WITH REPRESENTATIVES IN HONG KONG.

/"A PASSPORT

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 198?

- 19 -

"A PASSPORT IS A TRAVEL DOCUMENT THAT BY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION MUST BE ASSUMED TO BE ACCEPTABLE UNLESS A COUNTRY STATES OTHERWISE. THE IMPORTANT POINT IS THAT NO COUNTRY HAS SAID IT WILL NOT ACCEPT THE BN(O) PASSPORTS," HE SAID.

ON IMPORTATION OF LABOUR, MR JEAFFRESON REFUTED A SUGGESTION BY THE HON HO SAI-CHU THAT THE ADMISSION OF ONE-WAY EXIT PERMIT HOLDERS FROM CHINA SHOULD BE IMPLEMENTED WITH A CERTAIN DEGREE OF FLEXIBILITY SO THAT PERSONS ALLOWED TO ENTER UNDER THE SCHEME COULD CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS ALLEVIATING THE PRESENT LABOUR SHORTAGE.

HE SAID: " I WOULD LIKE TO POINT OUT THAT THE PRESENT SCHEME OF ADMITTING ONE-WAY EXIT PERMIT HOLDERS HAS BEEN WORKING WELL. BUT WE HAVE NO INTENTION WHATSOEVER OF SEEKING TO INCREASE THE PRESENT QUOTA.

"THE 27,000 ENTERING HONG KONG ANNUALLY UNDER THE SCHEME ARE ALREADY EQUIVALENT TO 0.5 PER CENT OF THE POPULATION, BY INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS A VERY HIGH PROPORTION FOR IMMGRATION.

"IT IS AS MUCH AS OUR COMMUNITY CAN DEAL WITH IN TERMS OF FACILITIES INCLUDING HOUSING, MEDICAL AND SOCIAL SERVICES. NOR WOULD WE WISH TO SEE THE CONTENT OF THE 75-A-DAY ONE-WAY PERMIT HOLDERS CHANGED TO FAVOUR THOSE WHO ARE ABLE TO WORK.

"AT PRESENT THE SYSTEM IS BEING USED PRIMARILY TO ACHIEVE FAMILY REUNION. WE WOULD VERY MUCH HOPE THAT IT REMAINS THAT WAY," HE SAID.

ON VISAS FOR VISITORS FROM EASTERN EUROPE, MR JEAFFRESON SAID THE GOVERNMENT KEPT THE POLICY UNDER REGULAR REVIEW AND IT WAS NOW FAR LESS RIGID THAN WAS OFTEN SUPPOSED.

HE SAID: "EACH APPLICATION FOR A VISA IS CONSIDERED ON ITS MERITS WITH THE OBJECT OF BALANCING HONG KONG’S VARYING INTERESTS TN THIS CONTEXT. WE ACCEPT THAT TOO RESTRICTIVE A POLICY COULD BE AN IMPEDIMENT TO HONG KONG’S DEVELOPMENT AS AN INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE.

"IN ORDER TO MEET THIS POINT, AS A RESULT OF THE LAST REVIEW WE HAVE INTRODUCED A NEW PROCEDURE WHICH TAKES ACCOUNT OF THE LONG LEAD TIMES NECESSARY FOR PLANNING CONFERENCES AND WHICH SHOULD ENABLE HONG KONG TO BID FOR A GREATER PROPORTION OF CONFERENCE EVENTS.

"WE HAVE ALSO AGREED FURTHER TO RELAX OUR POLICY ON THE GRANTING OF VISA? 30 THAT WE WILL BE ABLE TO AGREE TO THE ISSUE OF more visas Than we have hitherto.

"WE HAVE INFORMED THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL AND THE HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION. AND THE MANAGEMENT OF THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE IS ALSO AWARE OF WHAT WE HAVE DONE."

-------o ------- /2O...................

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 20 -

ARGUMENTS WEIGH AGAINST COMPULSORY PROVIDENT FUND ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

ARGUMENTS FOR AND AGAINST COMPULSORY SAVINGS HAVE BEEN DISCUSSED IN GREAT DETAIL AND AT GREAT LENGTH, WITH THE BALANCE OF THE ARGUMENTS QUITE HEAVILY AGAINST COMPULSION, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, THE HON RON BRIDGE, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY ^WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKIlfc ON THE SUBJECT OF A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND DURING THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH, MR BRIDGE SAID PROFESSIONAL ECONOMISTS SUPPORTED THE VIEW THAT THE INTRODUCTION OF A COMPULSORY SAVINGS SCHEME WOULD INCREASE PRODUCTION COSTS AND WEAKEN HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL COMPETITIVENESS.

"OUR ECONOMY DEPENDS ON OUR EXPORTS. IT THEREFORE SEEMS PARTICULARLY UNWISE TO DO ANYTHING THAT COULD PUT OUR COMPETITIVENESS AT RISK," HE SAID.

MR BRIDGE POINTED OUT THAT WHILE A COMPULSORY SAVINGS SCHEME WOULD PROVIDE A REASONABLY ADEQUATE RETURN FOR THOSE WHO HAD BEEN IN STEADY EMPLOYMENT EARNING GOOD WAGES, THOSE EARNING LESS THAN THE AVERAGE WAGE, OR CONTRIBUTING FOR LESS THAN 40 YEARS, COULD EXPECT FROM THEIR COMPULSORY LIFETIME SAVINGS A RETIREMENT INCOME BELOW THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE THRESHOLD.

MOREOVER, BY COMPULSORY SAVINGS, IT WOULD MEAN THAT EMPLOYERS WOULD BE FORCED TO SET UP RETIREMENT SCHEMES; AND EMPLOYEES WOULD BE FORCED TO JOIN, AND TO CONTRIBUTE FOR THEIR ENTIRE WORKING LIVES.

"I DO NOT BELIEVE THAT SUCH EXTENSIVE GOVERNMENT INTERFERENCE IN THE FINANCIAL AFFAIRS OF SO MANY INDIVIDUALS WOULD IN PRACTICE BE POPULAR,” MR BRIDGE SAID.

"WE HAVE THEREFORE REJECTED COMPULSORY SAVING SCHEMES; BECAUSE THEY WOULD BE AN INADEQUATE SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM OF PROVIDING FOR THE NEEDY ELDERLY; THEY WOULD BE UNPOPULAR WITH A CONSIDERABLE PROPORTION OF THOSE AFFECTED; AND THEY WOULD PUT OUR ECONOMY AT RISK."

MR BRIDGE SAID A MUCH MORE APPROPRIATE SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEMS OF IMPROVING THE FINANCIAL SITUATION OF THE ELDERLY WAS FOUND IN THE LONG SERVICE PAYMENT (LSP) SCHEME.

THE LSP WAS INTRODUCED IN JANUARY 1986 AS A MEASURE TO PROVIDE SOME PROTECTION FOR ELDERLY EMPLOYEES WHO WERE DISMISSED; AND LEGISLATION TO EXTEND THE SCHEME TO COVER RETIREMENT THROUGH OLD AGE OR ILL HEALTH WOULD BE PUT TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SHORTLY.

MR BRIDGE SAID THAT THE LSP HAD THREE ADVANTAGES : IT WAS NONCONTRIBUTORY; IT WAS BASED ON FINAL SALARY AND IT WAS RETROACTIVE.

/BUT HE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

BUT HE ALSO NOTED THAT THE SCHEME AT PRESENT DID HAVE SOME LIMITATIONS. FIRSTLY, THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH IT WAS PAYABLE WERE RATHER RESTRICTED; SECONDLY, THERE WAS NO REQUIREMENT AT PRESENT FOR an Employer to fund his liabilities under the scheme.

"ON THE FIRST POINT, THE COVERAGE OF THE SCHEME WOULD BE EXTENDED CONSIDERABLY BY THE FORTHCOMING AMENDMENTS," MR BRIDGE SAID. "ON THE SECOND POINT, MANY EMPLOYERS WERE IN FACT TAKING STEPS TO COVER THEIR LSP LIABILITIES BY SETTING UP PRIVATE RETIREMENT SCHEMES."

HE SAID THAT THIS RAPID INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF PRIVATE RETIREMENT SCHEMES WAS ENCOURAGING, ADDING THAT THE GOVERNMENT INTENDED TO ENCOURAGE IT FURTHER WITH A PUBLICITY AND INFORMATION CAMPAIGN IN PARALLEL WITH THE MEASURES TO IMPROVE THE REGULATION OF PRIVATE SCHEMES.

TURNING TO PROGRESS ON LABOUR LEGISLATION, MR BRIDGE SAID THAT IT HAD TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE CONFLICTING INTERESTS OF EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES, REQUIRING SOMETIMES DIFFICULT NEGOTIATIONS WITH BOTH SIDES.

THE GOVERNMENT HAD ENACTED NO LESS THAN 274 ITEMS OF LABOUR LEGISLATION IN THE LAST 20 YEARS, AND HONG KONG NOW COMPILED IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITH 48 INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION CONVENTIONS, A FIGURE WHICH COMPARED FAVOURABLY WITH MANY OF THE MORE ADVANCED COUNTRIES, E.G. JAPAN AND SINGAPORE.

HOWEVER, MR BRIDGE AGREED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CONTINUE TO IMPROVE CONDITIONS FOR WORKERS AS FAST AS HONG KONG’S ECONOMIC GROWTH PERMITTED.

HE SAID HE WAS PARTICULARLY ENCOURAGED BY THE RECENT EXECUTIVE COUNCIL DECISION TO SET UP AN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY COUNCIL, WHOSE AIM WOULD BE TO ENHANCE SAFETY AWARENESS AND REDUCE THE TRAGICALLY HIGH NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS AT WORK.

"THE COUNCIL WILL TAKE OVER FROM THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITY FOR SAFETY EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY AND WILL PROVIDE ADVISORY AND CONSULTANCY SERVICES TO EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES IN ALL SECTORS OF THE ECONOMY," HE SAID.

-------0 - -

/22

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 22 -

WHITE BILL SHORTLY ON COMPLEX

* * *

COMMERCIAL CRIME TRIAL LAW * «

THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL HAS DECIDED THAT A WHITE BILL WILL BE PUBLISHED ON THE PROPOSED LAW GOVERNING THE TRIAL OF COMPLEX COMMERCIAL CRIMES.

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON MICHAEL THOMAS, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT A WHITE BILL (OR A DRAFT BILL FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION) WILL BE GAZETTED IN ABOUT TWO WEEKS’ TIME.

SPEAKING DURING THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, MR THOMAS SAID THE 57 RECOMMENDATIONS PUT FORWARD BY THE SELECT COMMITTEE ON COMPLEX COMMERCIAL CRIME COVERED ADMINISTRATIVE AS WELL AS LEGISLATIVE MATTERS.

A NUMBER OF THOSE RECOMMENDATIONS HAD ALREADY BEEN CARRIED INTO EFFECT BY ADMINISTRATIVE MEANS.

A GREAT DEAL OF WORK HAD BEEN DONE ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS REQUIRING LEGISLATION.

"ALTHOUGH THE BILL SEEKS TO IMPLEMENT THE BROAD RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE, ITS DETAILED PROVISIONS WILL BE NEW AND INTERESTED PARTIES MUST BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO COMMENT ON THEM," HE SAID.

MR THOMAS SAID NO ONE WOULD DISPUTE THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT TO AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE SUCH AS HONG KONG TO POSSESS EFFICIENT MEANS OF COMBATTING AND PUNISHING COMMERCIAL CRIME.

"AS A MATTER OF FACT THE GOVERNMENT HAS DEVOTED CONSIDERABLE RESOURCES TO THE FIGHT AGAINST COMMERCIAL CRIME IN RECENT YEARS.

"IT WAS ONLY IN 1980 THAT MY PREDECESSOR FIRST SET UP A COMMERCIAL CRIME UNIT IN THE PROSECUTIONS DIVISION OF THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT BY ASSIGNING TO THAT UNIT A DIRECTORATE OFFICER AND TWO COUNSEL. PRIOR TO THAT, COMMERCIAL CRIME HAD TO COMPDETE FOR TIME AND ATTENTION WITH OTHER SERIOUS CRIMES," HE SAID.

TODAY, THE UNIT HAD EIGHT DIRECTORATE OFFICERS AND 15 OTHER EXPERIENCED COUNSEL. THIS GROWTH HAD BEEN PARALLELLED IN THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE AND, IN RECENT YEARS, THE ICAC HAD TAKEN ON MAJOR CASES INVOLVING CORRUPTION.

ACCOUNTANTS FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR WERE ALSO BROUGHT IN TO INVESTIGATE CASES AND AS EXPERT WITNESSES.

"OF COURSE THE FIGHT AGAINST COMMERCIAL CRIME IS COSTLY BUT I AM SURE MEMBERS DO NOT WISH TO ALLOW HONG KONG’S SAVINGS AND INVESTMENTS, BIG OR SMALL, TO BE PLUNDERED WITH IMPUNITY," HE SAID.

/TURNING TO

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 25 -

TURNING TO THE CARRIAN CASE, MR THOMAS SAID HE SHARED THE HON POON CHI-FAI’S CONCERN AND THE WIDESPREAD CONCERN OF SO MANY AT THE OUTCOME OF THE CASE.

'HE SAID IT WAS AN IMPORTANT CASE ARISING FROM HONG KONG’S LARGEST EVER CORPORATE COLLAPSE WHICH RESULTED IN DEFICIENCIES OF SOME 110 BILLION AND WHICH DAMAGED THE TERRITORY’S REPUTATION FOR COMMERCIAL INTEGRITY.

"I WOULD LIKE TO ASSURE MR POON THAT A GREAT DEAL OF CARE AND TROUBLE WAS TAKEN IN THE PREPARATION OF THE PROSECUTION CASE, AND IN FRAMING THE CHARGES," HE SAID.

"AS I SAID IN REPLY TO DR CONRAD LAM WHO WROTE TO ME IN SEPTEMBER ON THIS MATTER, THE CASE WAS COMPLICATED AND THERE WAS A VAST NUMBER OF DOCUMENTS TO ASSIMILATE. CONSIDERATION WAS GIVEN TO ALTERNATIVE WAYS OF PROCEEDING.

"THE DECISION TO PROSECUTE WAS TAKEN AFTER RECEIVING POSITIVE ADVICE ON THE CHARGES TO BE LAID FROM AN EXPERIENCED QUEEN'S COUNSEL IN LONDON, MR HARRY OGNALL, QC (WHO HAS SINCE BEEN MADE A HIGH COURT JUDGE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM), THE THEN CROWN PROSECUTOR AND SENIOR MEMBERS OF THE COMMERCIAL CRIME UNIT OF THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT.

"THE CROWN ALSO OBTAINED ADVICE FROM TWO EXPERIENCED ACCOUNTANTS, INCLUDING LORD BENSON, THE FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE INSTITUTE OF CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS. BOTH THESE GAVE EVIDENCE FOR THE CROWN AT THE COMMITTAL PROCEEDINGS AND THE TRIAL," THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SAID.

HE SAID THAT UNDER THE TERRITORY’S CRIMINAL PROCEDURE, DEFENDANTS COULD CHOOSE TO TEST THE STRENGTH OF THE PROSECUTION CASE BY WAY OF COMMITTAL PROCEEDINGS. THIS RIGHT WAS EXERCISED IN THE CARRIAN CASE BY FOUR OF THE DEFENDANTS.

A FULL COMMITTAL HEARING LASTING SIX MONTHS TOOK PLACE BEFORE A MAGISTRATE WHOSE FUNCTION IT WAS TO DETERMINE WHETHER THERE WAS SUFFICIENT EVIDENCE UPON WHICH TO COMMIT THOSE DEFENDANTS TO TRIAL IN THE HIGH COURT. THE MAGISTRATE DECIDED THAT A COMMITTAL FOR TRIAL WAS WARRANTED, HE SAID.

MR THOMAS SAID THE ESTIMATE GIVEN TO HIM AND TO THE COURT WAS THAT THE TRIAL WOULD LAST ANOTHER SIX TO EIGHT MONT’S. BUT THIS ESTIMATE WAS FAR EXCEEDED.

"I HAD FOR SOME TIME BEEN TROUBLED BY THE PROLONGATION OF THESE PROCEEDINGS, AND THE STRAIN WHICH THAT PLACED ON MEMBERS OF THE JURY IN PARTICULAR, AND ALL OTHERS INVOLVED IN THE CASE.

"THOSE APPEARING FOR THF. CROWN TOOK MANY STEPS TO EFFECT ECONOMIES.

/"BUT MEMBERS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 2<+ -

"BUT MEMBERS WILL APPRECIATE THAT THEY DO NOT CONTROL THE COURSE OF A TRIAL," HE SAID.

MR THOMAS SAID THE DEPARTMENT’S COMMERCIAL CRIME UNIT HAD IN RECENT YEARS UNDERTAKEN A SUBSTANTIAL NUMBER OF CASES ARISING FROM COMPLEX COMMERCIAL FRAUD. IN THE THREE YEAR PERIOD FROM 1984, THE UNIT PROSECUTED 44 CASES IN THE HIGH COURT, RESULTING IN 83 PERSONS CONVICTED AND THREE ACQUITTED.

MOST OF THESE CASES HAD BEEN LENGTHY AND COMPLEX AND MANY OF THEM WERE CASES OF CONSPIRACY TO DEFRAUD.

"NONETHELESS I CAN ASSURE MEMBERS, JUST AS I ASSURED DR LAM, THAT WHERE THERE ARE LESSONS TO BE LEARNED FROM THE CARRIAN CASE, THEY WILL NOT BE LOST ON THE COMMERCIAL CRIME UNIT," HE SAID.

ON THE LOCALISATION OF THE DEPARTMENT, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SAID HE REGARDED THIS AS THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT MANAGEMENT ISSUE THE DEPARTMENT WAS FACING.

A DISCUSSION PAPER ON THE ISSUE WAS RELEASED BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND THE DEPARTMENT’S FOUR LAW OFFICERS TO ALL COUNSEL IN JUNE.

MR THOMAS SAID ANYONE WHO HAD STUDIED THE DISCUSSION PAPER MUST BE AWARE OF THE CONSIDERABLE EFFORT THAT WENT INTO ITS PREPARATION AND OF THE DETERMINATION TO PROMOTE MEASURES TO SPEED LOCALISATION IN THE DEPARTMENT.

THE PROPOSED TARGET FOR LOCALISATION WAS THAT BY 1992, 30 PER CENT OF THE: DIRECTORATE POSTS AND 50 PER CENT OF THE SENIOR CROWN COUNSEL POSTS SHOULD BE HELD BY LOCALS.

"WE HAVE RECENTLY COMPLETED A COMPREHENSIVE REPORT FOR THE INTER-DEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP ON HOW THESE TARGETS MAY BE ACHIEVED.

"I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THE VIEWS WE HAVE EXPRESSED WILL ASSIST THEM IN THEIR WORK AND I HOPE THAT THEY WILL BE ABLE TO CONCLUDE THEIR DELIBERATIONS SWIFTLY," MR THOMAS SAID.

ON THE QUESTION OF BILINGUAL LAWYERS, MR THOMAS SAID HE AGREED WITH THE HON YEUNG PO-KWAN THAT WITH THE MORE EXTENSIVE USE OF CHINESE IN COURTS AND THE IMPLEMENTATION OF BILINGUAL LEGISLATION, THERE WOULD BE AN INCREASED DEMAND FOR BILINGUAL LAWYERS.

TURNING TO THE LEVEL OF SENTENCING SET BY THE COURTS, MR THOMAS SAID THAT AS ATTORNEY GENERAL HF HAD THE POWER TO SEEK A REVIEW OF ANY SENTENCE WHICH HE CONSIDERED TO BE WRONG IN PRINCIPLE OR TO BF. MANIFESTLY INADEQUATE.

"A HIGH PROPORTION OF THOSE REVIEWED HAVE RESULTED IN SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES IN SENTENCE BY THE COURT OF APPEAL. BUT OF COURSE THE ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY FOR SENTENCING RESTS WITH THE

JUDICIARY.

"IN VIEW OF MEMBERS’ CONTINUING CONCERN OVER THE LEVEL OF SENTENCES, I WILL DRAW THE CHIEF JUSTICE’S ATTENTION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SAID IN THIS DEBATE," HE SAID.

- 0 -

/25

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 25 -

INCOME DECLARATION REQUIREMENT FOR OVER-70’S DELETED

« » » « »

THE GOVERNMENT HAS DECIDED TO DISPENSE WITH THE REQUIREMENT FOR AN INCOME DECLARATION IN OLD AGE ALLOWANCE APPLICATIONS BY NEW APPLICANTS OVER 70, WHILE RETAINING IT FOR THOSE BETWEEN 65 AND 69, WHO HAVE NOT PREVIOUSLY BEEN ELIGIBLE.

THIS WAS STATED BY THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, THE HON JOHN CHAMBERS, IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) DURING THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS.

MR CHAMBERS SAID ALL THOSE AGED 70 AND OVER WOULD BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE NEW HIGHER RATE OF OLD AGE ALLOWANCE WITHOUT HAVING TO DECLARE THEIR INCOME.

THE DECISION FOLLOWED A RE-EXAMINATION OF THE PROPOSALS IN THE LIGHT OF THE STRONG VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE SUBJECT.

ON THE PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME, MR CHAMBERS SAID THE MOST APPROPRIATE WAY OF HELPING POOR FAMILIES, PARTICULARLY THOSE WITH A LARGE NUMBER OF CHILDREN, WOULD BE TO INCREASE THE BASIC RATES FOR FAMILY MEMBERS AND TO INTRODUCE A MEAL ALLOWANCE FOR CHILDREN ATTENDING FULL DAY SCHOOL.

IN ADDITION, THERE WAS A FEE ASSISTANCE SCHEME FOR CHILD CARE CENTRES, AND CHILDREN FROM SINGLE-PARENT FAMILIES WERE GIVEN PRIORITY FOR ENTRY TO THESE CENTRES, HE SAID.

ON TRAINING PROGRAMMES, MR CHAMBERS NOTED THAT THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB HAD DONATED «6 MILLION TO THE SOCIAL WORK TRAINING FUND, WHICH WOULD ENABLE THE FUND TO SPONSOR MORE IN-SERVICE TRAINING FOR SOCIAL WORKERS.

MR CHAMBERS SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO CO-OPERATE EFFECTIVELY WITH THE VOLUNTARY AGENCIES CONCERNING THE WELFARE OF LESS FORTUNATE CITIZENS, AND HE NOTED THAT THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR HAD BEEN INVOLVED IN A NUMBER OF MAJOR POLICY REVIEWS IN RECENT YEARS.

TURNING TO MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, MR CHAMBERS ASSURED MEMBERS THAT WITH THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY, THE GOVERNMENT REMAINED FULLY COMMITTED TO THE PROVISION OF A HEAVILY SUBSIDISED PUBLIC HOSPITAL SERVICE IN THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE.

MOREOVER, THERE WOULD BE NO SLOWING-UP OF THE AMBITIOUS PROGRAMME OF PROVIDING NEW HOSPITALS AND MAKING EXTENSIONS TO EXISTING HOSPITALS DURING THE NEXT FEW YEARS, HE SAID.

/HE ALSO

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

26 -

HE ALSO ENVISAGED THAT STAFF EMPLOYED IN EXISTING GOVERNMENT AND SUBVENTED HOSPITALS WOULD IN DUE COURSE BE GIVEN THE OPTION OF EITHER ACCEPTING THE NEW TERMS OR RETAINING THEIR PRESENT CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT.

MR CHAMBERS NOTED THAT SEVERAL SUBVENTED HOSPITALS WERE INTRODUCING VARIOUS FORMS OF PALLIATIVE CARE FOR PATIENTS WHO WERE TERMINALLY ILL, WHILE THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT HAD STARTED TWO PILOT SCHEMES IN THE QUEEN ELIZABETH HOSPITAL AND THE PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL FOR A HOSPITAL VISITATION VOLUNTEER SERVICE WHICH WOULD CO-ORDINATE THE VOLUNTARY SERVICES AVAILABLE.

ON GENETIC COUNSELLING, MR CHAMBERS SAID THAT EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY ON MEDICAL GENETICS AND GENETIC COUNSELLING WERE BEING UNDERTAKEN BY THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT, THE HONG KONG SOCIETY OF MEDICAL GENETICS AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES INTERESTED IN THE SUBJECT, AND PLANS HAD BEEN DRAWN UP BY THE DEPARTMENT FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THIS SERVICE.

TURNING TO ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, MR CHAMBERS SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS PROPOSING TO SPEND MORE THAN $600 MILLION OVER A 10-YEAR PERIOD TO RID STREAMS AND COASTAL WATERS OF THE APPALLING POLLUTION CAUSED BY ANIMAL WASTES. MUCH OF THIS MONEY WOULD BE IN THE FORM OF ASSISTANCE TO THE FARMERS TO HELP THEM COMPLY WITH THE NEW REGULATIONS, AND COMPENSATION TO THOSE WHO WERE UNABLE TO COMPLY.

HE ALSO SAID THE GOVERNMENT MADE VERY GREAT EFFORTS TO ENSURE THAT HONG KONG’S COMPETITIVENESS IN ITS EXPORT MARKETS WAS NOT UNDULY AFFECTED BY POLLUTION CONTROLS.

MR CHAMBERS SAID THAT ONCE THE NOISE CONTROL BILL WAS PASSED, WHICH HE HOPED WOULD BE EARLY NEXT YEAR, HONG KONG SHOULD HAVE IN PLACE A COMPREHENSIVE SET OF SUCH LEGISLATION, COVERING AIR, WATER, NOISE AND WASTE DISPOSAL.

THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT WAS NOW REPRESENTED ON ALL THE MAJOR PLANNING COMMITTEES, HE NOTED.

IN ADDITION, PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS WERE SUBJECT TO ENVIRONMENTAL VETTING AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTS WERE CARRIED OUT FOR MAJOR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR PROJECTS.

DESPITE AN INCREASE OF 65 PER CENT IN FOSSIL FUEL CONSUMPTION OVER THE LAST DECADE, CAREFUL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT HAD LED TO A 50 PER CENT DECREASE IN THE CONCENTRATION OF SULPHUR DIOXIDE IN THE ATMOSPHERE, HE ADDED.

- - 0-----------

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 27 -

PERMANENT THINK-TANK ON EDUCATION

*****

THE SETTING-UP OF THE EDUCATION COMMISSION IN 1984 HAS PROVIDED THE GOVERNMENT WITH A PERMANENT THINK-TANK ON EDUCATION WHICH CAN TAKE THE LONG-TERM VIEW AND LOOK AT ISSUES OF STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE WHICH MIGHT OTHERWISE NOT RECEIVE PROPER ATTENTION, BECAUSE OF THE PRESSURE OF DAY-TO-DAY ADMINISTRATION, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, THE HON RON BRIDGE, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE RESUMED DERATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S ANNUAL ADDRESS, MR BRIDGE SAID A MEMBER HAD CALLED FOR AN ASSESSMENT TO SEE WHETHER THE DEFECTS POINTED OUT TN THE LLEWELLYN REPORT HAI) BEEN REMEDIED AND SUGGESTED THAT HONG KONG NEEDED TO ESTABLISH "CLEARLY DEFINED SOCIETAL GOALS ON A SYSTEM-WIDE BASTS".

"I BELIEVE THAT THIS PROCESS - OF CORRECTING DEFECTS IN OUR EDUCATION SYSTEM AND IDENTIFYING LONG-TERM GOALS - IS A CONTINUOUS ONE, WHICH HAS BEEN IN PROGRESS EVER SINCE THE LLEWELLYN REPORT WAS PUBLISHED," MR BRIDGE SAID.

"BUT IN THE FAST-CHANGING WORLD OF HONG KONG WE SHOULD NOT Al,WAYS THINK TN TERMS OF ONE-OFF OVERALL REVIEWS WHICH ATTEMPT TO ENCOMPASS ALL OF EDUCATION BETWEEN TWO COVERS.

"SUCH EXERCISES CAN BE USEFUL, BUT THEY ARE LESSENED IN VALUE IF THEY ARE HELD TOO FREQUENTLY.

"AS I SAID IN THE SECOND ADJOURNMENT DEBATE ON EDUCATION COMMISSION REPORT NO. 2 ON FEBRUARY 18 THIS YEAR, THE REFORMS ARISING FROM THE LLEWELLYN REPORT AND FROM THE FIRST TWO REPORTS ARF INEVITABLY BEING ACHIEVED AT THE PRICE OF SOME DISRUPTION AND ADJUSTMENT."

MR BRIDGE SAID THAT AFTER THE RECENT PERIOD OF REPORTS AND DISCUSSION, WE COULD ONLY HOLD YET ANOTHER "OVERALL REVIEW" AT THE PRICE OF MORE SERIOUS AND CONTINUED DISRUPTION TO OUR EDUCATION SYSTEM.

HE NOTED THAT THE COMMISSION WAS CONSIDERING A WIDE RANGE OF OPTIONS AND WOULD CONSULT CONCERNED PARTIES BEFORE MAKING ITS FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS. THESE WERE LIKELY TO BE PUBLISHED EARLY IN 1988, WHEN THERE WOULD BE A PERIOD OF PUBLIC CONCULTATION.

MR BRIDGE POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS TOO EARLY TO SAY WHAT THE COMMISSION'S CONSLUSIONS WOULD BE.

TURNING TO THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION, MR BRIDGE SAID HE AGREED WITH MANY MEMBERS THAT EDUCATION PLANNING MUST NOT BF * SIMPLE NUMBERS GAME OF MAXIMISING ENROLMENTS.

/"THE EXPERIENCE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 28 -

"THE EXPERIENCE OF MANY COUNTRIES IN THE 1960’S AND 70’S HAS SHOWN THE PERILS OF NEGLECTING QUALITY AND THE HIGHER PURPOSES OF EDUCATION. THAT IS WHY THE EDUCATION COMMISSION HAS BEEN AT SUCH PAINS IN BOTH OF ITS PUBLISHED REPORTS TO LOOK AT LONG TERM OBJECTIVES AND THE PHILOSOPHY BEHIND OUR EDUCATIONAL POLICIES," HE SAID.

HE POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS IN THAT SPIRIT THAT THE COMMISSION HAI) SPOKEN, FOR EXAMPLE, OF THE NEED TO STRENGTHEN THE TWO-YEAR INTEGRATED SIXTH FORM AND TO BROADEN ITS CURRICULUM.

"HOWEVER, AS MEMBERS KNOW, OUR SEARCH FOR QUALITY SHOULD NOT MEAN THAT WE DISMISS QUANTITY AS IRRELEVANT. ON THE CONTRARY, THE EXPANSION OF TERTIARY OPPORTUNITIES AND THE SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF NINE YEARS FREE AND COMPULSORY EDUCATION ARE REAL ACHIEVEMENTS," HE SAID.

MR BRIDGE REITERATED THAT QUANTITY AND QUALITY IN EDUCATION MUST GO HAND IN HAND.

SPEAKING ON THE OPEN LEARNING INSTITUTE (OLI), MR BRIDGE SAID HE WAS ENCOURAGED BY THE REMARKS BY SOME MEMBERS CONCERNING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF SUCH INSTITUTE IN HONG KONG.

HE AGREED THAT THE STATUS OF THE NEW INSTITUTE SHOULD BE COMPARABLE TO THAT OF EXISTING TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS AND THAT OUR AIM SHOULD BE FOR ITS QUALIFICATIONS TO BE ACCORDED THE SAME DEGREE OF RECOGNITION AS THOSE OF ESTABLISHED UNIVERSITIES AND POLYTECHNICS.

"OF COURSE, WHETHER THE NEW INSTITUTION ACHIEVES THIS WILL DEPEND ON THE SUCCESS OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE WHICH IS SHORTLY TO BE APPOINTED," HE SAID.

"WE WILL NEED TO MOVE QUICKLY AND EFFICIENTLY ON THIS IF WE ARE TO ACHIEVE OUR TARGET DATE OF 1989 FOR THE FIRST STUDENT ENTRY," HE ADDED.

MR BRIDGE EXPLAINED THAT IT WAS NO REFLECTION ON THE OLI’S STATUS THAT IT WAS NOT TO BE CALLED AN OPEN UNIVERSITY.

"THE NAME FOR THE NEW INSTITUTION WAS CHOSEN TO REFLECT THE FACT THAT IT WILL OFFER BOTH DEGREE AND SUB-DEGREE LEVEL COURSES.

"MOREOVER, THE OLI WILL NOT DEVELOP LARGE ACADEMIC FACULTIES ALONG THE LINES OF, FOR EXAMPLE, THE OPEN UNIVERSITY IN THE UK.

"BY REMAINING A STREAM-LINED ORGANISATION, WITH A SMALL, EXPERT CORE OF SENIOR ACADEMICS, THE OLI WILL BE ABLE TO REACT QUICKLY TO CHANGES IN THE DEMANDS OF SOCIETY AND WILL BE ABLE TO KEEP THE COST OF COURSES WITHIN THE MEANS OF THE AVERAGE STUDENT," HE SAID.

-------0----------

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 29 -

PLAN FOR PHASED DEVELOPMENT OF HINTERLANDS

» ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE LANDS AND WORKS BRANCH AND ITS DEPARTMENTS HAVE STARTED PUTTING TOGETHER A PLAN FOR THE PHASED AND SYSTEMATIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE RURAL HINTERLANDS. *

THIS WAS ANNOUNCED BY THE SECRETARY FOR LANDS AND WORKS, THE HON GRAHAM BARNES, IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) DURING THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH.

"IT IS CLEAR THAT THE COMPONENTS OF THIS PLAN MUST BE A PROGRAMME OF PHASED INVESTMENT, FACILITATION OF APPROPRIATE PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT, AND SOME DEGREE OF PLANNING CONTROL AND PUBLIC LAND ACQUISITIONS," HE SAID.

HE ADDED IT WAS NOT YET SUFFICIENTLY CLEAR WHAT THE MIX SHOULD BE. BUT IT WAS AN EXERCISE WHICH WOULD REQUIRE A VERY SYSTEMATIC PROGRAMME OF CONSULTATION.

MR BARNES SAID THE PRESENT TOWN PLANNING ORDINANCE WAS NO LONGER AN ADEQUATE INSTRUMENT IN REGULATING AND PROMOTING DEVELOPMENT IN BOTH THE RURAL HINTERLANDS AND THE OLDER URBAN AREAS.

CONSEQUENTLY, THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAD AGREED TO UNDERTAKE A COMPLETE REVIEW OF THE ORDINANCE, THE FIRST DISCUSSIONS ON WHICH WERE RECENTLY HELD.

"IT IS AN EXERCISE WHICH WILL REQUIRE A VERY SYSTEMATIC PROGRAMME OF CONSULTATION.

"FOR IT MUST COVER MUCH MORE FULLY THAN AT PRESENT, THE CONSULTATION PROCESSES IN PLANNING, THE RIGHTS OF THOSE AFFECTED BY PLANNING PROPOSALS, THE KINDS OF PLANNING REQUIRED IN SUPPORT OF RURAL RENEWAL, AND THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN THE PLANNING AND PUBLIC AND PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT," HE SAID.

MR BARNES ALSO SAID THAT DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND PROFESSIONAL INSTITUTIONS WERE UNDERWAY ON THE SUBJECT OF PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, SO AS TO MAINTAIN STANDARDS.

"THERE IS GENERAL AGREEMENT ON THE NEED OF REGISTRATION; THAT IT SHOULD NOT BE RESTRICTED TO INSTITUTION MEMBERS, AND THAT REGISTRATION SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED BY THE INSTITUTIONS, WITH GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATION ON THE CONTROLLING BOARD,” HE SAID.

"HOWEVER, MUCH DETAILED WORK AND CONSULTATION REMAINS TO BE DONE TO DRAFT THE NECESSARY LEGISLATION. THIS WILL BE PURSUED ACTIVELY DURING THE COMING YEAR."

MR BARNES ALSO REFERRED TO THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BILL, AND SAID DEBATE ON ITS SECOND READING WOULD RESUME SHORTLY.

HE SAID THERE HAD TO BE A BALANCE BETWEEN THE GRANT OF ADEQUATE POWERS TO THE CORPORATION TO DO ITS JOB AND PROTECTION OF THOSE WHO WOULD BE AFFECTED BY IT.

------o------- /JO...................

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 30 -

DMC GUIDELINE WILL IMPROVE BUILDING MANAGEMENT

*****

A SET OF GUIDELINES FOR THE DRAFTING OF NEW DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT HAS BEEN COMPLETED AND WILL BECOME EFFECTIVE ON DECEMBER 1, THE SECRETARY FOR DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION, MR T.H. CHAU, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY)

SPEAKING IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR'S ADDRESS, MR CHAU SAID THESE GUIDELINES WERE DESIGNED TO ENSURE A BETTER BALANCE OF INTEREST BETWEEN THE DEVELOPER AND THE OWNERS AND SHOULD PROVIDE A BETTER BASIS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE COMMON PARTS OF A DEVELOPMENT.

"ALL NEW RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS, UNLESS EXEMPTED BY THE GOVERNMENT, WILL COME UNDER THIS AMBIT," MR CHAU ADDED.

EXPLAINING THE GUIDELINES, HE SAID THEY WOULD LIMIT THE PERIOD OF MANAGEMENT BY DEVELOPER TO TWO YEARS, AFTER WHICH THE OWNERS WOULD BE FREE TO APPOINT THEIR OWN MANAGER.

THE POWERS AND OBLIGATIONS OF MANAGERS WOULD BE CLEARLY DEFINED AND A SCALE OF REMUNERATION FOR MANAGERS WOULD BE SPECIFIED. THE GUIDELINES WOULD ALSO REQUIRE A CLEAR DEFINITION OF THE COMMON AREAS IN A BUILDING, HE CONTINUED.

AS REGARDS ENFORCEMENT, MR CHAU SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD EARLIER STIPULATED THAT ALL DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT RELATING TO NEW NON-INDUSTRIAL LEASES GRANTED SINCE FEBRUARY 1986 WOULD HAVE TO BE VETTED BY THE REGISTRAR GENERAL.

"APPROVAL WILL BE GIVEN ONLY WHERE THE REGISTRAR GENERAL IS SATISFIED THAT THE GUIDELINES HAVE BEEN FOLLOWED," HE SAID.

IN ADDITION, THE LAW SOCIETY HAD INCORPORATED THE GUIDELINES IN A "PRACTICE DIRECTION" WHICH SOLICITORS WERE OBLIGED TO FOLLOW TN PREPARING DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT.

"THIS MEANS THAT NEW DEVELOPMENTS BUILT UNDER OLD LEASES WILL ALSO BE COVERED BY THE GUIDELINES," HE ADDED.

ON THE EXISTING DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT, MR CHAU SAID SOME PEOPLE HAD SUGGESTED THAT WHERE THEY WERE FOUND TO BE OPPRESSIVE AND UNFAIR, OWNERS SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO PROPOSE AMENDMENTS.

BUT THIS SUGGESTION WOULD HAVE THE EFFECT OF ALTERING EXISTING CONTRACTUAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS AND ITS IMPLICATIONS MUST THEREFORE BE CAREFULLY CONSIDERED.

MR CHAU SAID AN INTER-DEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP HAD BEEN SET UP TO STUDY THE PROPOSAL IN DETAIL.

/ON THE

WEDNESDAY, NOVIMBh’R 11, 1987

ON THE MULTI-STOREY BUILDINGS (OWNERS INCORPORATION) ORDINANCE, MR CHAU SAID THAT FOLLOWING CONSULTATIONS WITH DISTRICT BOARDS ACTION WAS BEING TAKEN TO AMEND ITS PROVISIONS TO FACILITATE THE FORMATION AND FUNCTIONING OF OWNERS CORPORATIONS.

SINCE THE UNDERLYING SPIRIT OF THE ORDINANCE WAS TO ENCOURAGE SELF-HEI,P AMONG OWNERS AND TO PROVIDE THEM WITH A LEGAL FRAMEWORK WITHIN WHICH THEY COULD MANAGE THEIR OWN BUILDINGS EFFECTIVELY, THE SUGGESTION OF HAVING A GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT TO ENFORCE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE ORDINANCE WAS NOT APPROPRIATE, HE SAID.

"HOWEVER, THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION HAS ALWAYS ASSISTED RESIDENTS IN THE FORMATION OF NEW OWNERS CORPORATIONS AND MAINTAINS A REGULAR LIAISON WITH THEM," HE NOTED.

FURTHERMORE, FOUR BUILDING MANAGEMENT CO-ORDINATION TEAMS UNDER THE DISTRICT OFFICE HAD BEEN SET UP SINCE 1 ?5 TO ADVISE AND ASSIST RESIDENTS AND MANAGEMENT BODIES IN DEALING WITH BUILDING MANAGEMENT PROBLEMS. THREE MORE TEAMS WOULD BE SET UP LATER THIS YEAR.

CONCERNING THE PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS OF BUILDING MANAGEMENT COMPANIES, MR CHAU NOTED THAT A JOINT COMMITTEE FORMED BY REPRESENTATIVES OF THREE PROFESSIONAL BODIES WAS CONTEMPLATING THE FORMATION OF AN ASSOCIATION FOR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANIES.

"SUCH AN ASSOCIATION, IF FORMED, WILL EXERCISE REGULATION OVER ITS MEMBER COMPANIES AND SHOULD ENSURE A HIGHER STANDARD OF BUILDING MANAGEMENT," MR CHAU SAID.

OTHER SUGGESTIONS BEING STUDIED INCLUDED AN ARBITRATION TRIBUNAL ON BUILDING MANAGEMENT MATTERS AND AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON MULTI-STOREY BUILDING MANAGEMENT MATTERS.

TURNING TO HOUSING MATTERS, MR CHAU SAID HE WAS PLEASED TO NOTE THE GENERAL ENDORSEMENT OF THE CHANGE TOWARDS A DEMAND-LED APPROACH IN PROVIDING HOUSING FOR THE POPULATION AND FOR THE PROPOSED RE-ORGANISATION OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY.

HE ASSURED MEMBERS OF THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO THE PROVISION OF ADEQUATE HOUSING AS ENVISAGED IN THE LONG TERM HOUSING STRATEGY AND HE POINTED OUT THAT THE HOUSING AUTHORITY’S REPORT OF THE DOMESTIC RENT POLICY REVIEW COMMITTEE PUBLISHED LAST YEAR HAD RE-AFFIRMED THE PRINCIPLE THAT RENT FOR PUBLIC HOUSING WOULD CONTINUE TO BE BASED ON WHAT TENANTS COULD AFFORD.

ON THE SUGGESTION OF PUTTING THE HOUSING AUTHORITY'S SURPLUSES INTO A SPECIAL FUND FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN IMPROVEMENTS TO PUBLIC HOUSING AND WELFARE MATTERS, MR CHAU SAID THE FUTURE FINANCING OF THE AUTHORITY, INCLUDING THE TREATMENT OF ANY SURPLUSES, WAS CURRENTLY UNDER CONSIDERATION.

- 0 -

/52........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 52 -

MUCH BEING DONE TO BOOST PRODUCTIVITY

* ♦ ♦ »

MUCH IS BEING DONE IN THE FIELDS OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY, AND THE GOVERNMENT FULLY INTENDS TO CONTINUE TO DO WHATEVER IS NECESSARY TO MAINTAIN THEIR PRESENT HEALTHY STATE, AND TO FURTHER IMPROVE INDUSTRY'S PRODUCTIVITY AND THE QUALITY AND TECHNOLOGICAL LEVEL OF ITS PRODUCTS, THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, THE HON HAMISH MACLEOD, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR'S ADDRESS, MR MACLEOD SAID IN RELATION TO INDUSTRY, THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO TAKE "A MODEST AND PRAGMATIC APPROACH", PRAGMATIC ENOUGH TO RESEARCH SYSTEMATICALLY TO IDENTIFY GAPS AND WEAK SPOTS, AND TO TAKE ACTION WHERE SOME INTERVENTION OR ASSISTANCE BY GOVENMENT WAS REQUIRED.

HE SAID THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD CONTINUED WITH THE PROGRAMME OF IDENTIFYING AREAS WHERE NEW INITIATIVES WERE NEEDED AND THAT THE TIME HAD COME TO LOOK AT THE MORE AMBITIOUS POSSIBILITY OF ESTABLISHING A TECHNOLOGY CENTRE OR SCIENCE PARK.

"ACCORDINGLY, THE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD WILL LATER THIS MONTH BE HAVING INITIAL DISCUSSIONS ON BOTH THIS POSSIBILITY AND THE CONCEIVABLY RELATED QUESTION OF A THIRD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE," HE SAID.

MR MACLEOD SAID HE DID NOT AGREE THAT OVER THE YEARS THE GOVERNMENT HAD DONE VERY LITTLE IN TERMS OF PROVIDING INDUSTRIAL SUPPORT SERVICES.

ON THE TRADE FRONT, MR MACLEOD SAID HONG KONG MUST CONTINUE TO DO ALL IT COULD TO COUNTER THE THREAT OF PROTECTIONISM AND TO SAFEGUARD ITS TRADING INTERESTS.

HE MENTIONED TWO ENCOURAGING TRENDS. THE FIRST WAS THAT RECENTLY THERE WERE SIGNS THAT HONG KONG’S OVER-DEPENDENCE ON THE UNITED STATES MARKET WAS BEING REDUCED SOMEWHAT.

"THE PROPORTION OF OUR DOMESTIC EXPORTS GOING TO THE USA HAS DECLINED FROM 44 PER CENT IN 1985 TO 38 PER CENT IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1987. AND DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO JAPAN INCREASED BY 39 PER CENT IN 1986, AND BY 71 PER CENT IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1987," HE SAID.

THE SECOND DEVELOPMENT RELATED TO RECENT EVENTS IN WORLD STOCK MARKETS WHICH HAD BROUGHT HOME TO U.S. LEGISLATORS AND OTHERS THE INTERDEPENDENCE OF THE MAJOR TRADING AND FINANCIAL MARKETS, AND THE DANGER WHICH PROTECTIONIST LEGISLATION WOULD POSE TO ALL TRADING ECONOMIES.

"THIS HOPEFULLY WILL MODIFY SOMEWHAT PROTECTIONIST TENDENCIES

IN THE U.S.," HE SAID.

/HOWEVER, MR

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 35 -

HOWEVER, MR MACLEOD ALSO POINTED OUT THAT RECENT EVENTS APPEARED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE U.S. REVIEWING THE ELIGIBILITY OF HONG KONG (AMONG OTHERS) FOR TARIFF PREFERENCE AND A RISK CLEARLY EXISTED THAT AS PART OF SOME NEW PACKAGE HONG KONG WOULD LOSE TARIFF PREFERENCE.

MR MACLEOD SAID THAT ATTEMPTS TO RESOLVE THESE GENERAL AND PERSISTENT TRADE PROBLEMS UNILATERALLY OR EVEN BILATERALLY WERE MISGUIDED AND THAT HONG KONG WOULD CONTINUE TO DEVOTE ENERGY AND INGENUITY TO ADDRESSING THESE PROBLEMS MULTILATERALLY, THROUGH THE GATT.

"THERE IS A REASONABLE CHANCE THAT THE NEW ROUND OF MULTILATERAL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS CAN ACHIEVE REAL AND MUCH NEEDED IMPROVEMENTS TO THE WORLD TRADING SYSTEM," HE SAID.

ON THE PROBLEM OF A LABOUR SHORTAGE, MR MACLEOD SAID THE GOVERNMENT CONTINUED TO SEE SERIOUS PROBLEMS IN RELAXING IMMIGRATION RULES TO PERMIT THE LARGE-SCALE IMPORTATION OF LABOUR.

"THESE PROBLEMS RELATE PARTICULARLY TO LABOUR RELATIONS, TO THE EFFECT ON HOUSING AND SOCIAL SERVICES, AND TO IMMIGRATION CONTROL DIFFICULTIES," HE SAID.

HE, HOWEVER, SAID THE EXAMINATION OF LABOUR PARTICIPATION, AS WELL AS THE LEGISLATIVE AMENDMENTS TO ENABLE GREATER FLEXIBILITY IN EMPLOYMENT OF WOMEN WORKERS, WERE BEING TAKEN FORWARD WITH A SENSE OF URGENCY.

"FURTHERMORE, THE POSSIBILITY OF INDUSTRY ESTABLISHING DAY CARE FACILITIES FOR CHILDREN, AS A MEANS OF ATTRACTING HOUSEWIVES BACK TO WORK, IS BEING EXAMINED FURTHER WITH THE FEDERATION OF HONG KONG INDUSTRIES," HE ADDED.

--------0----------

DEVELOPMENTS ON ARTS, RECREATION AND SPORTS OUTLINED

*****

THE GOVERNMENT'S EMPHASIS ON CULTURAL ACTIVITIES IS TO PROVIDE THE NECESSARY ENVIRONMENT FOR THE ARTISTIC POTENTIAL OF OUR COMMUNITY TO BE FULLY REALISED, THE SECRETARY FOR DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION, THE HON T.H. CHAU, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

MR CHAU POINTED OUT THAT WITH THE INCREASING NUMBERS OF CULTURAL FACILITIES COMING ON STREAM, THE GOVERNMENT’S ATTENTION TO THE CULTURAL FIELD WOULD TURN TO THE PROVISION OF GREATER SUPPORT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL TALENT AND PERFORMING COMPANIES.

/SPEAKING DURING

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

SPEAKING DURING THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, HE NOTED THAT THE ACADEMY EOR PERFORMING ARTS WAS PLAYING AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE TRAINING OF PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS. A PROPOSAL WAS BEING DISCUSSED CONCERNING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A LIAISON COMMITTEE AMONG THE COUNCIL FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL.

MR CHAU POINTED OUT THAT THE PROPOSAL WAS MADE WITH A VIEW TO REINFORCING THE EXISTING CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE TWO MUNICIPAL COUNCILS AND, THROUGH THE INTERCHANGE OF INFORMATION AND IDEAS, ALLOW THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MORE CO-ORDINATED APPROACH TO THE PROVISION OF PUBLIC FUNDS FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS.

REGARDING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE VISUAL ARTS, MR CHAU SAID THAT MUCH HAD ALREADY BEEN DONE BY THE GOVERNMENT THROUGH THE EDUCATION SYSTEM AND BY THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS THROUGH THE PROVISION OF VENUES AND THE ORGANISATION OF EXHIBITIONS AND PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES.

"THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A SECONDARY SCHOOL IN SHA TIN FOR STUDENTS SHOWING TALENT IN SPORTS OR VISUAL ARTS FURTHER UNDERLINES THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT IN THIS AREA," HE ADDED.

TURNING TO RECREATION AND SPORTS, MR CHAU SAID THAT OVER A FIVE-YEAR PERIOD THERE HAD BEEN A 73 PER CENT INCREASE IN GOVERNMENT SUBVENTION TO SPORTS BODIES, FROM $5.7 MILLION IN 1983-84 TO $9.9 MILLION IN 1987-88.

THE COUNCIL FOR RECREATIONAL AND SPORT HAD RECENTLY ESTABLISHED A SPORTS AID FOUNDATION WITH A WORKING CAPITAL OF $10 MILLION TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO RECOGNISED SPORTS BODIES AND DESERVING ATHLETES.

--------0----------

WELL ESTABLISHED POLICY ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT *****

A KEY TO THE SUCCESS OF HONG KONG’S PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM LIES IN THE WELL ESTABLISHED POLICY OF THE GOVERNMENT PROVIDING THE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK WHILE LETTING PRIVATE COMPANIES PROVIDE THE SERVICES ON COMMERCIAL LINES, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, THE HON MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING DURING THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, MR LEUNG SAID AT PRESENT SOME NINE MILLION PASSENGERS USED PUBLIC TRANSPORT EVERY DAY, COMPARED WITH SIX MILLION 10 YEARS AGO.

/THE WIDE........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 35 -

THE WIDE RANGE OF CHOICE OF MODES AND THEIR RELATIVELY LOW FARES WERE UNIQUE TO HONG KONG, AND THE ENVY OF MANY OTHER CITIES, WHERE PUBLIC TRANSPORT WAS OFTEN BOTH LESS RELIABLE AND MORE EXPENSIVE.

"IN RECENT YEARS TOO, THE PUBLIC THROUGH THE DISTRICT BOARDS HAVE BEEN GIVEN AMPLE CHANCE TO AIR THEIR VIEWS ON THE ROUTE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES, WITH ADJUSTMENTS BEING MADE AS FAR AS POSSIBLE TO SUIT LOCAL NEEDS AND DEMANDS," HE SAID.

"THE GOVERNMENT ALSO MAINTAINS AN INTER-MODAL CO-ORDINATION POLICY WHICH AIMS AT MAXIMISING THE USE OF THE MASS CARRIERS AND ENSURING A WIDE GEOGRAPHICAL SPREAD OF SERVICES, WHILST MAINTAINING THE LOWEST POSSIBLE FARES.

"IT IS WITHIN THESE POLICY GUIDELINES THAT COMPETITION IS CONTROLLED SO THAT PRIORITY CAN BE GIVEN TO OFF-STREET MODES AND TO MASS CARRIERS, WITHOUT FORGETTING AT THE SAME TIME THE ESSENTIAL NATURE OF THE FERRY SERVICES AND THE NEED TO MAINTAIN THEIR VIABILITY.

"THIS POLICY REMAINS VALID TODAY AND, GIVEN THE INCREASING DEMAND FOR OUR LIMITED ROAD SPACE, THERE IS NO REASON WHY IT SHOULD BE CHANGED," HE STRESSED.

TURNING TO THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY REGARDING THE TWO RAILWAY CORPORATIONS, MR LEUNG SAID THERE WAS NO NEED TO SUBJECT THEM TO FURTHER CONTROLS.

HE SAID THE CORPORATIONS WERE REQUIRED TO RUN THEIR OWN AFFAIRS ACCORDING TO PRUDENT COMMERCIAL PRINCIPLES WITHIN THE TERMS OF THEIR ORDINANCES.

THEY WERE BOTH GOVERNED BY A BOARD OF DIRECTORS COMPRISING A BROAD RANGE OF MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY, WITH GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL PARTICIPATION TO ENSURE THE NECESSARY CONTROL AND GUIDANCE.

THESE CORPORATIONS HAD THE AUTHORITY TO MAKE DECISIONS ON FARES HAVING REGARD TO THEIR CAPITAL INVESTMENT PROGRAMMES, OPERATING COSTS AND PASSENGER DEMAND.

"THESE FACTORS GUARANTEE THAT FARES WILL NOT BE SO HIGH AS TO BE SOCIALLY UNACCEPTABLE OR SO LOW THAT THEY LEAD TO LOSSES. THE BOARDS OF DIRECTORS ALSO PROVIDE AN EFFECTIVE CHECK, WHILE THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL MAY IF NECESSARY GIVE DIRECTIONS TO THE CORPORATIONS IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST," HE SAID.

"IT THEREFORE REMAINS OUR VIEW THAT, AS LONG AS THEY REMAIN GOVERNMENT CORPORATIONS, SUFFICIENT CONTROLS ALREADY EXIST OVER THEM AND THERE IS NO NEED TO SUBJECT THEM TO FURTHER CONTROLS."

/ON PARKING

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 36 -

ON PARKING SITES FOR CONTAINER VEHICLES, MR LEUNG SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS WELL AWARE OF THIS NEED.

A MORE DETAILED LOOk AT LONGER TERM REQUIREMENTS FOR CONTAINER VEHICLE PARKING FACILITIES WOULD BE UNDERTAKEN AS PART OF THE PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY STUDY DUE TO START AT THE BEGINNING OF NEXT YEAR AND REPORT BEFORE THE END OF 1989.

MR LEUNG SAID A RECENT SURVEY SUGGESTED THAT 20 HECTARES OF LAND WAS DEDICATED TO CONTAINER PARKING AT PRESENT.

"SEEN SIMPLY IN TERMS OF AREA, THIS SHOULD BE ADEQUATE. HOWEVER, THE SITES ARE SCATTERED THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY AND ARE CLEARLY NOT IDEAL FROM THE POINT OF VIEW OF THE OPERATORS. SHORT TERM SITES WILL THEREFORE CONTINUE TO BE PUT OUT TO TENDER AS A MEANS TO EASE THE SITUATION," HE SAID.

ON THE MORE GENERAL QUESTION OF PARKING FACILITIES FOR GOODS VEHICLES, MR LEUNG SAID WORKING GROUPS COMPRISING REPRESENTATIVES OF THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT AND THE POLICE HAD BEEN FORMED AT A LOCAL LEVEL TO IDENTIFY AREAS WHERE, BECAUSE OF THE AVAILABILITY OF MULTI-STOREY CARPARKS, THE RE-ALLOCATION OF ON-STREET PARKING SPACES FROM PRIVATE CARS TO GOODS VEHICLES WAS POSSIBLE.

THESE GROUPS WERE ALSO IDENTIFYING STREETS WHERE LOW TRAFFIC FLOWS AT NIGHT MADE IT POSSIBLE TO ALLOW ON-STREET OVERNIGHT LORRY PARKING, HE SAID.

-------0----------

PLANNING FOR TRANSPORT INTO NEXT CENTURY

*****

THE SECOND COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORT STUDY WILL FULLY TAKE INTO ACCOUNT ALL POSSIBLE FACTORS, SO THAT THE POLICY OPTIONS BEING DEVELOPED WILL BE WIDE-RANGING AND COMPREHENSIVE, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, THE HON MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

THE STUDY, SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION BY JUNE NEXT YEAR, WOULD SET OUT OPTIONS FOR THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF THE TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE AND POLICY OPTIONS FOR DEALING WITH THE VARIOUS PROBLEMS OVER THE PERIOD UP TO THE YEAR 2001, MR LEUNG SAID WHEN SPEAKING DURING THE POLICY DEBATE.

/"OVER THE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

- 37 -

"OVER THE LAST DECADE, SUBSTANTIAL AND SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS IN TRANSPORT HAVE BEEN MADE, DEVELOPMENTS WHICH HAVE IN FACT TRANSFORMED HONG KONG’S TRANSPORT SYSTEM ENTIRELY," HR SAID.

MR LEUNG NOTED THAT 10 YEARS AGO THERE WAS NO MTR, THE KCR WAS STILL A SINGLE TRACK, DIESEL HAULED SERVICE MAINLY SERVED VILLAGERS AND RECREATIONAL TRAFFIC, THERE WAS NO ISLAND EASTERN CORRIDOR, NO TOLO HIGHWAY OR NEW TERRITORIES CIRCULAR ROAD, AND THE TURN MUN HIGHWAY WAS ONLY A THREE-LANE CARRIAGEWAY.

ALL THESE MAJOR PROJECTS AND MANY OTHERS HAD BERN COMPLETED DURING THE PAST 10 YEARS. INVESTMENT IN THE RAIL SYSTEM ALONE WAS 828 BILLION. AND 87.5 BILLION HAD BEEN SPENT ON ROADS DURING THIS PERIOD.

"MAJOR PROJECTS NOW IN HAND INCLUDE THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEM BETWEEN TUEN MUN AND YUEN LONG DUE TO OPEN NEXT YEAR, THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING DUE TO OPEN IN 1989, ROUTE 5 LINKING SHA TIN WITH TSUEN WAN DUE TO OPEN IN 1990 AND THE TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL, FOR WHICH BIDS FOR A FRANCHISE FOR ITS CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION ARE NOW BEING PROCESSED. THE ANTICIPATED DATE OF COMPLETION FOR THIS TUNNEL WAS MID-1992, BUT WE ARE NOW HOPEFUL THAT IT MIGHT BE ADVANCED TO LATE 1991,"HE SAID.

AGAINST THIS BACKGROUND OF DRAMATIC CHANGES IN THE TRANSPORT SCENE AND TO ALLOW SUFFICIENT LEAD TIME FOR LARGE PROJECTS, MR LEUNG SAID IT WAS NECESSARY TO UPDATE THE FIRST STUDY, AND TO MAP OUT DEVELOPMENT OPTIONS AND PLANS TO TAKE US PAST THE TURN OF THE CENTURY AS A BASIS FOR YET FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS.

THE SECRETARY ASSURED MEMBERS THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD SEEK THE VIEWS OF THE PULBIC AFTER THE REPORT ON THE SECOND STUDY HAD BEEN COMPLETED AND THAT A PAPER WOULD BE DRAFTED ON THE POLICY OPTIONS.

HE HOPED THAT IT WOULD TAKE THE FORM OF A GREEN PAPER ON TRANSPORT AND WOULD BE GIVEN THE WIDEST POSSIBLE PUBLIC CONSULTATION.

"IT IS INTENDED THAT THE GREEN PAPER SHOULD BE READY BEFORE THE END OF NEXT YEAR," HE SAID.

MR LEUNG ALSO NOTED THAT SEVERAL MEMBERS WERE HIGHLY SUPPORTIVE OF, AND KEENLY INTERESTED IN, A RAIL SERVICE BETWEEN THE NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES AND THE URBAN CENTRE.

"A DECISION WILL BE MADE AS TO WHETHER IT SHOULD BE BUILT AND, IF IT SHOULD, ON THE EXACT ROUTE, BEFORE THE END OF NEXT YEAR. THIS WILL TAKE FULLY INTO ACCOUNT THE FINANCIAL, SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND TRANSPORT BENEFITS THE RAIL LINK WILL BRING, AND THE NEEDS OF RESIDENTS IN ROTH WESTERN NEW TERRITORIES AND THE URBAN AREA," HE SAID.

/within the

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 198?

- 38 -

WITHIN THE NORTHWEST TRANSIT SERVICE AREA, MR LEUNG SAID IT WAS GOVERNMENT’S INTENTION THAT THE KCRC SHOULD FULLY DEVELOP THE LRT SYSTEM BETWEEN TUEN MUN AND YUEN LONG, WITH EVENTUAL EXTENSIONS TO TIN SHUI WAI AND POSSIBLY LONG PING IN NORTH YUEN LONG.

"IT REMAINS THE KCRC’S OBJECTIVE THAT STAGE 1 OF THE SYSTEM SHOULD OPEN IN AUGUST NEXT YEAR AND THAT THE SUBSEQUENT REGIONAL EXTENSIONS SHOULD OPEN OVER THE SUCCEEDING THREE TO FOUR YEARS."

"THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE LRT, THE PLANNING OF EXTERNAL RAIL AND ROAD LINKS AND THE MASSIVE PROGRAMME OF HIGHWAY PROJECTS COSTING OVER |5 BILLION OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS ARE CLEAR INDICATIONS OF THE GOVERNMENT'S DETERMINATION TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE TERRITORY OVER THE COMING YEARS."

ON THE FUTURE PROJECTS UNDER STUDY, MR LEUNG SAID THESE INCLUDED ROUTE X LINKING YUEN LONG WITH TSUEN WAN, TSING YI AND KOWLOON, IN DUE COURSE, WITH ITS EXTENSION BEING VIA A FUTURE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY AND WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING.

MR LEUNG STRESSED THAT TRANSPORT PLAYED A KEY ROLE IN THE BASIC INFRASTRUCTURE TO THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL WELL BEING OF OUR COMMUNITY AND IT WAS THE GOVERNMENT INTENTION THAT TRANSPORT FACILITIES AND SERVICES THAT HONG KONG NEEDED SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE PROVIDED.

"IN THIS TASK WE WILL CONTINUE TO SEEK AND TAKE ACCOUNT OF THE VIEWS OF THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE, THE DISTRICT BOARDS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC," HE ADDED.

-------o----------

ECONOMIC GROWTH A FACTOR BEHIND TRAFFIC CONGESTION

*****

TRAFFIC CONGESTION SHOULD BE LOOKED AT IN SOME PERSPECTIVE, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, THE HON MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

"IN GENERAL, TRANSPORT PLANNING MUST BE BASED UPON CERTAIN ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING THE GROWTH OF THE ECONOMY, OF TRAFFIC, IN THE NUMBER OF VEHICLES OF DIFFERENT TYPES, AND THE TRAVELLING NEEDS OF PEOPLE IN THE NEW TOWNS AND BETWEEN THE NEW TOWNS AND THE URBAN AREAS," HE SAID.

/"ALL FORECASTS,

WEEWE8DAY, NOVEMBER 111 1987

- 39 -

“ALL FORECASTS, NO MATTER HOW WELL BASED, ARE NO MORE THAN PREDICTIONS. IN NORMAL CIRCUMSTANCES THERE IS A TENDENCY TO MAKE INVESTMENT DECISIONS ON A CAUTIOUS BASIS DUE TO THE SCALE OF EXPENDITURE INVOLVED.

’’THE FACT THAT TUNNELS AND ROADS BECOME CROWDED EARLIER THAN EXPECTED DOES NOT, HOWEVER, REFLECT A LACK OF PLANNING OR A LACK OF DETERMINATION TO IMPROVE.

•'WITH THE BEST WILL IN THE WORLD, TRAFFIC DOES SOMETIMES INCREASE FASTER THAN EXPECTED DUE TO FASTER THAN EXPECTED ECONOMIC GROWTH."

MR LEUNG SAID THAT SOMETIMES, AS WAS THE CASE AS RECENTLY AS FOUR OR FIVE YEARS AGO, LESS BUOYANT TIMES TOOK THEIR TOLL IN THE FORM OF FINANCIAL STRINGENCY, AND THE NEED TO DELAY EXPENDITURE UNTIL BETTER TIMES RETURNED.

"TO PROCEED OTHERWISE WOULD INVOLVE BASIC CHANGES IN THE PRUDENT FINANCIAL POLICY WHICH HAS SERVED US SO WELL OVER THE YEARS, AND WHICH IS THE FOUNDATION OF SO MUCH OF OUR ECONOMIC STRENGTH."

ON MEASURES TO ALLEVIATE SERIOUS TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT THE LION ROCK TUNNEL AND THE CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL, MR LEUNG SAID A SOLUTION TO THE LATTER WAS NOT FAR AWAY, WITH THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING DUE TO OPEN IN UNDER TWO YEARS FROM NOW. TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL WOULD TAKE LONGER.

HE ADDED THAT A STUDY WAS UNDERWAY TO SEE WHAT COULD BE DONE IN THE MEANTIME, AND IT SEEMED THERE WERE WAYS OF INCREASING THE CAPACITY OF THE ROAD NETWORK BETWEEN SHA TIN AND KOWLOON BEFORE TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL OPENED.

"I HOPE TO BE ABLE TO MAKE AN ANNOUNCEMENT ON THIS IN EARLY JANUARY," HE SAID.

TURNING TO OTHER PROJECTS TO COPE WITH INCREASING TRAFFIC DEMAND, MR LEUNG SAID IT WAS ALSO THE GOVERNMENT’S OBJECTIVE TO ENSURE THE SMOOTH FLOW OF CROSS-BORDER TRAFFIC AND AN ADEQUATE ROAD NETWORK TO COPE WITH TRANSPORT TO AND FROM CHINA.

HE SAID THE LOK MA CHAU BRIDGE, TO BE OPENED IN TWO STAGES IN 1989 AND 1990, WOULD INCREASE CROSS-BORDER CAPACITY FROM THE PRESENT 12,000 VEHICLES PER DAY TO OVER 50,000. ON PRESENT PROJECTION THIS SHOULD BE SUFFICIENT UNTIL THE END OF THE CENTURY.

THE ROAD NETWORK IN THE NEW TERRITORIES ALSO HAD AMPLE CAPACITY TO COPE WITH TRANSPORT TO AND FROM CHINA, WITH A CAPACITY OF UP TO 150,000 VEHICLES PER DAY ON THE NEW TERRITORIES CIRCULAR ROAD, AND ROUTE X LINKING YUEN LONG WITH TSUEN WAN, TSING YI AND KOWLOON AND THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING WAS STILL TO COME.

OTHER MAJOR PROJECTS NOW IN HAND INCLUDED THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEM DUE TO OPEN NEXT YEAR, AND ROUTE 5 LINKING SHA TIN AND TSUEN WAN, DUE TO OPEN IN 1990.

-------0--------- /M)....................

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

FS: ABILITY TO CHANGE A KEY FACTOR IN SUCCESS

*****

HONG KONG IS WELL KNOWN FOR ITS ABILITY TO ADAPT EFFECTIVELY AND EFFICIENTLY TO ANY CHANGING CONDITION IN THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT, THE'FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR PIERS JACOBS, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE CONFERENCE ON "THE PROSPECTS FOR HONG KONG’S CHEMICAL PROCESS INDUSTRIES IN THE CHANGING ENVIRONMENT", MR JACOBS SAID THE FIRMS THAT HAD WITHSTOOD THE TEST OF TIME WERE THOSE WHICH HAD ACCEPTED CHANGE AS THE BR1NGER OF NEW OPPORTUNITIES RATHER THAN AS A THREAT TO THE EXISTING ORDER.

"THIS IS AN ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT OF SUCCESS TN HONG KONG AND I AM GRATIFIED TO SEE THE CHEMICAL PROCESSING INDUSTRY COLLECTIVELY TAKING STOCK AND FORECASTING FUTURE TRENDS FOR GROWTH," HF. SAID.

MR JACOBS NOTED THAT FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF THE CHEMICAL PROCESSING INDUSTRY IN HONG KONG WOULD BE AFFECTED NOT ONLY BY THE CHANGING SITUATION OF HONG KONG IN RELATION TO CHINA AND THE REST OF THE WORLD BUT ALSO BY SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL PROGRESS, BY IMPROVEMENTS IN PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES, BY INNOVATION IN SALES AND MARKETING PROGRAMMES AND BY THE INTRODUCTION OF NEW ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION MEASURES.

HE ASSURED THE CONFERENCE THAT ALL VIEWS AND OPINION EXPRESSED WOULD BE WELCOME.

"UNDOUBTEDLY THEY WILL HELP US IN MAKING DECISIONS IN RELATION TO A HOST OF DIFFERENT SUBJECTS," HE SAID.

MR JACOBS ALSO CONGRATULATED THE HONG KONG CHEMICAL SOCIETY ON ITS INITIATIVE IN ORGANISING WHAT PROMISED TO BE A STIMULATING CONFERENCE AND ALSO WELCOMED THE SUPPORT THAT HAD BEEN PROVIDED BY THE INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL SPONSORS.

-------0---------

INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT ASSISTS CHEMICAL PROCESS INDUSTRY

*****

THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT HAS ASSISTED THE SETTING-UP OF A NUMBER OF CHEMICAL PLANTS IN THE PAST AND IS CURRENTLY ASSISTING MORE THAN 20 PROJECTS IN THE CHEMICAL PROCESS INDUSTRY.

THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR IAN HOWARD, SAID THIS TODAY (WEDNESDAY) IN A CONFERENCE JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT AND THE HONG KONG CHEMICAL SOCIETY ON THE PROSPECTS FOR HONG KONG’S CHEMICAL PROCESS INDUSTRIES TN THE CHANGING ENVIRONMENT.

/HE ADDED

WEDNESDAY, NOVfJlBER 11, 1987

HE ADDED THAT THE POTENTIAL INVESTORS IN THE CHEMICAL PROCESS INDUSTRY WERE BOTH LOCAL AND FOREIGN, AND HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT THE INDUSTRY HAD A BRIGHT FUTURE.

’’THE INDUSTRY IS NOT ONLY GROWING BIG AND FAST BUT IS ALSO FURTHER DIVERSIFYING INTO NEW AREAS TO SUPPORT HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES.

’’RAPID DEVELOPMENT OF THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY HAS PROVIDED MAJOR OPPORTUNITIES IN THE PROVISION OF SPECIALTY CHEMICALS AND CHEMICAL PROCESSING SERVICES, WHILE RECENT EXPANSION OF THE DYEING AND FINISHING SECTOR OF THE TEXTILE INDUSTRY HAS ALSO RAISED LOCAL DEMAND FOR HIGHER QUALITY DYESTUFFS AND TEXTILE CHEMICALS.”

MR HOWARD POINTED OUT THAT IN ADDITION TO ITS DIVERSIFICATION, HONG KONG’S CHEMICAL PROCESS INDUSTRY WAS ALSO QUITE SMALL IN RELATIVE, LOCAL TERMS.

”AT THE END OF LAST YEAR THERE WERE 793 ESTABLISHMENTS IN THIS SECTOR AND THEY WERE EMPLOYING ABOUT 8,350 PEOPLE - WHICH IS ROUGHLY ONE PER CENT OF TOTAL EMPLOYMENT IN MANUFACTURING.

’’ITS DIRECT CONTRIBUTION TO THE GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT CANNOT BE TERMED SIGNIFICANT BUT IT IS MOST IMPORTANT BECAUSE OF ITS SUPPORT TO OTHER MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES.”

IN TRADE TERMS, MR HOWARD SAID HONG KONG WAS AN IMPORTER RATHER THAN AN EXPORTER OF CHEMICALS. IN 1986, IMPORTS OF CHEMICALS AND RELATED PRODUCTS REPRESENTED SEVEN-AND-A-HALF PER CENT OF TOTAL IMPORTS WHILE EXPORTS ONLY ACCOUNTED FOR ONE PER CENT OF TOTAL DOMESTIC EXPORTS.

’’THE INDUSTRY IS DEPENDENT ON IMPORTS AND ABOUT 54 PER CENT OF ITS PRODUCTION IS RETAINED FOR LOCAL CONSUMPTION. ONLY ABOUT 15 PER CENT OF DOMESTIC DEMAND IS MET BY LOCAL PRODUCTION,” HE ADDED.

’’WITH THE EXPANSION AND SOPHISTICATION OF INDUSTRIAL ACTIVITY IN HONG KONG DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS, THE IMPORTANCE OF THE DOMESTIC MARKET HAS GROWN TREMENDOUSLY, ESPECIALLY IN THE DEMAND FOR FINE CHEMICALS AND SPECIALTY CHEMICALS WHERE BOTH THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY AND THE TEXTILE INDUSTRY ARE EAGER CUSTOMERS.

’’THE POPULATION, WITH ITS INCREASING EXPECTATIONS AND ASPIRATIONS, IS ALSO EXERTING DEMAND FOR THESE PRODUCTS THROUGH ITS INCREASING PURCHASES OF CONSUMER ITEMS SUCH AS SOAPS, DETERGENTS, COSMETICS, PERFUMES AND TOILET PREPARATIONS,” MR HOWARD SAID.

-------0----------

/4a........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

* - 42 -

STEP FORWARD IN TREATING LIVESTOCK WASTE

* * t *

THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) TODAY (WEDNESDAY) OFFICIALLY TOOK OVER THE ’’SEQUENCING BATCH REACTOR SYSTEM (SBRS)” SUCCESSFULLY DEVELOPED BY THE CIVIL AND STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT OF THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC FOR LIVESTOCK WASTE TREATMENT APPLICATIONS.

THE SBRS IS ONE OF FOUR DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS ON LIVESTOCK WASTE TREATMENT BEING IMPLEMENTED BY THE EPD AT THE TA KWU LINO PIG BREEDING CENTRE.

THE SBRS PROJECT INVOLVES THE MODIFICATION OF AN EXISTING AERATION TREATMENT PLANT AT THE PIG BREEDING CENTRE. THE PLANT WAS ORIGINALLY DESIGNED TO TREAT WASTEWATER FROM 200 PORKERS TO 250 MILLIGRAM PER LITRE OF BIOCHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMAND AND 250 MILLIGRAM PER LITRE SUSPENDED SOLIDS AS AN INTERIM MEASURE, PRIOR TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL MEASURES.

THE SBRS NOW PROVIDES A SOLUTION TO UPGRADE THOSE EXISTING ON-FARM LIVESTOCK WASTE TREATMENT FACILITIES IN ORDER TO COMPLY WITH THE PROPOSED FARM EFFLUENT STANDARD OF NOT EXCEEDING 50 MILLIGRAM PER LITRE BIOCHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMAND AND 50 MILLIGRAM PER LITRE SUSPENDED SOLIDS FOR LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL.

DURING THE CEREMONY, DR HOWARD WARD, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR (RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT) OF THE POLYTECHNIC, SAID HE WAS HAPPY TO SAY THAT THE CONSULTANCY PROJECT HAD BEEN SATISFACTORILY COMPLETED AND IT WAS NOW TIMELY TO HAND OVER THE TREATMENT SYSTEM TO THE EPD SO THAT THE SYSTEM COULD CONTINUE TO BE OPERATED AND DEMONSTRATED TO LIVESTOCK FARMERS.

THE EPD ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (WASTE AND WATER), MR MIKE STOKOB, SAID THE DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS WOULD SHOW LIVESTOCK FARMERS THE PROPER WAYS AND MEANS TO INSTALL AND OPERATE PROVEN LIVESTOCK WASTE TREATMENT SYSTEMS APPLICABLE TO HONG KONG SITUATIONS.

THE OTHER THREE PROJECTS COVER THE DRY MUCK-OUT AND SOAKAWAY SYSTEM, THE EFFLUENT-FREE PIG PRODUCTION TECHNIQUE WHICH IS A COLLABORATIVE PROJECT BETWEEN THE EPD AND THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT, AND THE ACTIVIATED SLUDGE TREATMENT SYSTEM BEING DEVELOPED BY THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL FOR LIVESTOCK WASTE TREATMENT APPLICATIONS.

AMONG THOSE ATTENDING TODAY'S HAND-OVER CEREMONY WAS THE DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES (SPECIAL DUTIES), MR LEO KWAN.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

APPOINTMENTS TO CIVIL SERVICE SALARIES COMMISSION * » * ♦ »

THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THE GOVERNOR HAS RE-APPOINTED MISS THERESE H. C. CHAN, MR STANLEY G. ELLIOTT, MR VINCENT H. C. KO AND MRS ALICE LAM TO BE MEMBERS OF THE STANDING COMMISSION ON CIVIL SERVICE SALARIES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE FOR A PERIOD OF TWO YEARS.

THE APPOINTMENTS OF MISS CHAN, MR ELLIOTT AND MR KO WILL BE EFFECTIVE FROM MARCH 1, 1988 WHILE MRS LAM’S APPOINTMENT WILL BE EFFECTIVE FROM MARCH 10, 1988.

THE GOVERNOR HAS ALSO APPOINTED MR TANG KWAI-NANG TO BE A MEMBER OF THE STANDING COMMISSION UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 1989. MR TANG IS THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SURVEY RESEARCH HK LIMITED, THE VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE CONSUMER COUNCIL AND A MEMBER OF THE AIR TRANSPORT LICENSING AUTHORITY.

-------0---------

< HK AN ATTRACTION FOR HIGH TECHNOLOGY INVESTMENT ♦ ♦ » » ♦

IT IS EVIDENT THAT OVERSEAS HIGH TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES ARE INCREASINGLY AWARE OF HONG KONG’S ADVANTAGES AND ATTRACTIONS FOR INDUSTRIAL INVESTMENT, THE DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR K.Y. YEUNG, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY OF TIMES-RINGIER (HK) LTD. AT THE TAI PO INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, MR YEUNG SAID THE FACTORY WAS ANOTHER EXCELLENT EXAMPLE OF CONTINUING OVERSEAS INTEREST IN HONG KONG AS AN OFFSHORE MANUFACTURING BASE.

HE SAID THAT HONG KONG WAS ITSELF A STRIKING EXAMPLE OF EAST-WEST CO-OPERATION AND WAS THEREFORE AN IDEAL PLACE TO CHOOSE FOR THE TIMES AND RINGIER PROJECT, A CO-OPERATIVE VENTURE BETWEEN TWO HIGH TECHNOLOGY PRINTING CONCERNS, ONE FROM THE EAST AND ONE FROM THE WEST.

’’THEIR DECISION TO SELECT HONG KONG FOR SETTING UP THEIR PLANT IS ALSO INDICATIVE OF THE BENEFITS WE HAVE TO OFFER TO HIGHER GRADE PRINTING ACTIVITIES, AND HONG KONG WILL BENEFIT FROM THE SERVICES WHICH THE PLANT WILL PROVIDE WHEN IT BECOMES OPERATIONAL NEXT YEAR,” HE NOTED.

HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN HELPING WITH THE COLLECTION OF NECESSARY DATA FOR THE TIMES EXECUTIVES TO HELP THEM TO COME TO A POSITIVE DECISION ON HONG KONG.

THE PRINTING AND PUBLISHING INDUSTRY RANKS AS HONG KONG’S EIGHTH LARGEST INDUSTRY AT THE FIRST QUARTER OF THIS YEAR, EMPLOYING OVER 32,000 PEOPLE.

--------0-----------

A4.....

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

MORE CHILD CARE PLACES IN THE PIPELINE ♦ * * » »

THERE ARE 272 CHILD CARE CENTRES IN HONG KONG PROVIDING MORE THAN 28,000 PLACES, AND AN ADDITIONAL 1,600 PLACES HAVE BEEN PLANNED FOR THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR, DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

’’MOST OF THE CENTRES ARE RUN BY VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND TO ENSURE THAT CHILDREN RECEIVE PROPER CARE, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT IS HOPING TO FURTHER DEVELOP CHILD CARE SERVICES IN CO-OPERATION WITH THEM THROUGH INCREASING THE CAPACITIES OF EXISTING CENTRES,’’ SHE ADDED.

MRS WONG WAS OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING OF THE SALVATION ARMY TAI WO HAU NURSERY IN TSUEN WAN.

SHE NOTED THAT CHILD CARE CENTRES WERE AN IMPORTANT COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICE AND THAT IT WAS ESPECIALLY SO NOW WITH THE LABOUR SHORTAGE PROBLEM WHEN MORE AND MORE ORGANISATIONS WERE CALLING FOR ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS TO ENABLE MARRIED WOMEN TO REJOIN THE WORKFORCE.

ON CHILD CARE SERVICES IN THE TSUEN WAN/KWAI TSING DISTRICT, MRS WONG POINTED OUT THAT THERE WERE 28 CHILD CARE CENTRES WITH 2,636 PLACES.

”IN ADDITION TO THE ONE OPENED TODAY, FIVE MORE CHILD CARE CENTRES WILL COME INTO OPERATION OVER THE NEXT THREE YEARS TO PROVIDE 550 PLACES,” SHE SAID.

MRS WONG COMMENDED THE SALVATION ARMY FOR ITS EXEMPLARY CONTRIBUTION TO CHILD CARE SERVICES. THE AGENCY OPERATES 13 NURSERIES AND THREE CRECHES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.

- - 0 - -

CYC MEMBERS TO BREAK WORLD POSTER RECORD ♦ t ♦ * ♦

FOUR HUNDRED MEMBERS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB (CYC) WILL MAKE AN ATTEMPT TO BREAK THE WORLD’S BIGGEST POSTER RECORD TOMORROW (THURSDAY) AFTERNOON TO RAISE FUND FOR THE PLDERLY.

THEY WILL CONSTRUCT A 50 METRE BY 50 METRE COLOUR POSTER ON THE THEME ’’HONG KONG - MY HOME” AT VICTORIA PARK IN CAUSEWAY BAY.

/THE HUGE

WEDNESDAY, NOVfMBER 11, 1987

- ^5 -

THE HUGE POSTER EQUIVALENT IN SIZE TO 12 BASKETBALL COURTS WILL BE 25 PER CENT BIGGER THAN THE EXISTING RECORD IN THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS WHICH WAS SET BY STUDENTS OF OSAKA GAKUIN UNIVERSITY IN JAPAN IN OCTOBER 1984.

THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y.T. LI, WILL ATTEND A CEREMONY TO MARK THE COMPLETION OF THE POSTER AT VICTORIA PARK TOMORROW (THURSDAY) AFTERNOON. ALSO PRESENT AT THE CEREMONY WILL BE MR LAW TING-PONG OF THE LAWS FOUNDATION TRUST AND SUPERVISORS OF ALL CYC DISTRICT COMMITTEES.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT AT 3 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) AT VICTORIA PARK’S FOOTBALL PITCH NO. 5 NEAR THE ENTRANCE OF HING FAT STREET, CAUSEWAY BAY. INFORMATION OFFICERS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

------0-------

i KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL CLOSES ON SUNDAY *****

RESIDENTS OF KWAI CHUNG AND TSING YI ARE BEING INVITED TO THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF THE FIRST KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL TO BE HELD AT THE KWAI CHUNG SPORTS GROUND ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15).

THE CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM AND WILL BE FOLLOWED BY AN INVITATION MATCH BETWEEN THE GUANGDONG WOMEN’S FOOTBALL TEAM AND THE DISTRICT’S WOMEN FOOTBALLERS.

THE SCHOOL PRINCIPALS OF THE DISTRICT WILL TAKE PART IN ANOTHER FOOTBALL MATCH WITH KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS.

OFFICIATING AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY WILL BE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG; PRESIDENT OF THE HONG KONG FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION, MR HENRY FOK; KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BRIAN COAK; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR HO TUNG-CHING; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE SPORTS FESTIVAL COMMITTEE, MR CHENG WING-CHUN.

TICKETS FOR FREE ADMISSION ARE AVAILABLE AT THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICE. RESIDENTS MAY CALL 0-273593 FOR FURTHER DETAILS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF THE FIRST KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL WHICH WILL START AT 2.30 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15) AT THE KWAI CHUNG SPORTS GROUND (NEAR KWAI FONG MTR STATION).

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1987

REGISTRATION OF A DTC REVOKED

*****

THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING ANNOUNCED THAT THE REGISTRATION OF PAK SHING FINANCE COMPANY LIMITED AS A DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANY HAS BEEN REVOKED TODAY AT ITS OWN REQUEST UNDER SECTION 31(2) OF THE BANKING ORDINANCE.

- - 0 -

RESTRICTED ZONES IN ABERDEEN * * *

TWO ROAD SECTIONS IN ABERBEEN WILL BE DESIGNATED 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY RESTRICTED ZONES FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14).

THEY ARE A 35-METRE STRETCH ALONG NAM NING STREET WEST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH CHENGTU ROAD AND THE WESTERN KERBSIDE OF CHENGTU ROAD FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH NAM NING STREET TO A POINT ABOUT FOUR METRES NORTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION.

NO VEHICLE EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.

- - 0 -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

SIR DAVID s PEOPLE LOOKING FOR FORWARD MOVES................. 1

GOVERNOR VISITS ISLANDS DISTRICT ............................ 2

OS LOOKS OVER ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES............. 4

GUIDELINES DEFINE MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES................ 5

MUSIC OFFICE CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY..................... 6

WORLD'S BIGGEST POSTER FORMED BY CYC MEMBERS ................ 7

ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY FACING A CHALLENGE...................... 8

91,700 LIVESTOCK STRUCTURES REGISTERED ...................... 9

SHAM SHRI PO DISTRICT FESTIVAL TO START NEXT WEEK............ 9

SIX ANIMALS, PANDA SKIN FLOWN TO PEKING...................... 10

RAINFALL BELOW NORMAL IN OCTOBER............................. 11

Careers exhibition attracts large crowd ..................... 14

TSUEN WAN ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE TO MEET ..................... 15

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS RURAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME.......... 15

ANTI-TRIAD SEMINAR IN TSUEN WAN ............................. 16

SPORTS PROGRAMMES FOR SPECIAL TARGET GROUPS ................. 16

KWAI TSING STARTS CLEAN HK AND HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN ......... 17

CARNIVAL TO PROMOTE MENTAL HEALTH ........................... 1®

VARIETY SHOW FOR MDNG KOK EAST .............................. 19

SOUTHERN DISTRICT TO HOLD STUDENTS VARIETY SHOW.............. 19

SPORTS FORTNIGHT FOR WONG TaI SIN RESIDENTS ................. 20

CIVIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN FOR FANLING RESIDENTS .............. 21

ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL FOR KOWLOON CITY RESIDENTS ............. 21

SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR SCOUT RALLY................. 22

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRaNGEMHJTS ON HONG KONG ISLAND........... 23

CLOSURE OF CYCLE TRACKS, FOOTPATHS IN SHA TIN ............... 23

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

SIR DAVID : PEOPLE LOOKING EOR FORWARD MOVES

*****

THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG ARE NOW LOOKING FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO MOVE'FORWARD AND TO MAKE DECISIONS BASED ON ALL THE EVIDENCE THAT APPEARS IN THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT ON THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT, THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).

SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AT THE END OF A VISIT TO THE ISLANDS DISTRICT, SIR DAVID SAID "AS YOU KNOW, THERE IS A GREAT DEAL OF EVIDENCE THERE ABOUT WHAT THE COMMUNITY THINKS."

"I BELIEVE THAT THE COMMUNITY - CERTAINLY THIS DISTRICT - IS NOW WANTING TO LOOK FORWARD TO TAKING THE DECISIONS."

WHEN ASKED TO COMMENT ON THE DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL YESTERDAY, SIR DAVID SAID PEOPLE UNDERSTOOD AND EXPECTED THAT IF THE GOVERNMENT WAS CRITICISED, THE GOVERNMENT MUST ANSWER THAT CRITICISM.

HE SAID THAT WHAT THIS COMMUNITY LOOKED FOR WAS CO-OPERATION BETWEEN ALL THE DIFFERENT SECTORS OE THE COMMUNITY.

"THIS IS A POINT WHICH HAS BEEN MADE TO ME THIS AFTERNOON HERE IN THE ISLANDS DISTRICT," HE SAID.

ASKED IF THE SPEECH MADE BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL YESTERDAY WOULD DETER PEOPLE FROM SPEAKING UP, SIR DAVID SAID HE HAD NEVER YET SEEN ANYTHING WHICH DETERRED PEOPLE IN HONG KONG FROM SPEAKING UP.

ASKED TO COMMENT ON MR FORD’S REMARK ON THE PERFORMANCE OF CIVIL SERVANTS, SIR DAVID SAID HE HAD GREAT ADMIRATION AND GREAT RESPECT FOR THE WORK DONE BY OFFICIALS IN THIS GOVERNMENT - SENIOR OFFICIALS, MIDDLE OFFICIALS AND JUNIOR OFFICIALS.

HE ADDED: "IF YOU GO ROUND DISTRICTS LIKE I'VE BEEN DOING TODAY AND LIKE I’VE DONE IN THE PAST, LIKE ALL OF YOU HAVE DONE, YOU CAN SEE HOW MUCH WORK THE GOVERNMENT IS DOING."

"YOU CAN SEE IT PHYSICALLY IN THE BUILDINGS THAT ARE GOING UP, THE FACILITIES THAT ARE GOING UP FOR PEOPLE.

"YOU CAN SEE IT PSYCHOLOGICALLY IN THE SORT OF CO-OPERATION THAT EXISTS BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND DISTRICT BOARDS AND VARIOUS OTHER COMMUNITY LEADERS.

"SO I HAVE GREAT RESPECT FOR WHAT MEMBERS OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE DO AND WHAT THEY HAVE ACHIEVED."

/concerning his .......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 198?

CONCERNING HIS VISIT, SIR DAVID SAID THERE WAS A GREAT NEED FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL HOUSING IN THE DISTRICT.

HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD ALREADY MADE A START IN TAI O AND ON CHEUNG CHAU AND THERE WERE PLANS FOR FURTHER RURAL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN MUL WO AND ON PENG CHAU.

"THERE CLEARLY IS A GREAT NEED AND IT IS SOMETHING WE MUST PUT A GREAT DEAL OF EFFORT INTO IN ORDER TO IMPROVE THE LIVING STANDARD FOR THIS COMMUNITY," HE NOTED.

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GOVERNOR VISITS ISLANDS DISTRICT * ♦ * ♦ ♦

MORE RURAL PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES WILL BE BUILT IN MUI WO AND TAI O ON LANTAU AND ON CHEUNG CHAU AND PENG CHAU TO REHOUSE SQUATTERS IN THOSE AREAS AND TO IMPROVE ISLANDERS’ LIVING CONDITIONS, THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, WAS TOLD DURING HIS VISIT TO THE ISLANDS DISTRICT THIS (THURSDAY) AFTERNOON.

SIR DAVID, WHO WAS ACCOMPANIED BY LADY WILSON, WAS TOLD THAT, IN ADDITION TO THE EXISTING TWO ESTATES AT TAI O AND CHEUNG CHAU, AT LEAST FOUR OTHERS HAVE BEEN PLANNED, AND THESE WILL PROVIDE HOMES FOR ABOUT 9,000 PEOPLE.

ACCOMPANIED BY THE ACTING REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR PETER NG, AND ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICER, MR JONATHAN NG, THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON WERE GIVEN A BIRD'S EYE VIEW OF PENG CHAU AND LANTAU AS THEY FLEW IN BY HELICOPTER AND WERE BRIEFED ON DEVELOPMENTS ON THE TWO ISLANDS.

THEY LEARNT THAT THE CONSULTANTS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO CARRY OUT THE SOUTH LANTAU COAST PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT STUDY SIX MONTHS AGO HAD INDENTIF1ED FOUR POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT AREAS. THESE WERE PUI O, CHI MA WAN, CHEUNG SHA AND TONG FUK, WHERE VARIOUS RECREATIONAL FACILITIES, HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION AND LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS WOULD BE RECOMMENDED.

THEY WERE TOLD THAT AN OVERALL REPORT BY THE CONSULTANTS WOULD BE AVAILABLE BY EARLY 1988.

ON THEIR ARRIVAL IN TAI O, SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON WERE GREETED BY THE TAI O RURAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR YU YUEN-HEI, AND THE TAI O PROJECT MANAGER, MR C. K. CHOW.

THEY BOARDED A SAMPAN WHICH TOOK THEM ALONG TAI O CREEK WHERE THEY SAW A LARGE NUMBER OF STILTED STRUCTURES KNOWN AS "PANG UK’S" AND WHICH ACCOMMODATE ABOUT 3,000 PEOPLE.

/THE GOVERNOR........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON CALLED ON A FAMILY WHO WERE SIXTH GENERATION TAI O RESIDENTS.

AFTER THIS, THEY TOURED THE LUNG TIN ESTATE PHASE I - THE FIRST RURAL PUBLIC HOUSING SCHEME UNDERTAKEN IN THE DISTRICT BY THE HOUSING AUTHORITY. IT WAS COMPLETED IN 1980 AND IS HOME TO ABOUT 1,000 PEOPLE.

WHILE IN TAI O, SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON WERE BRIEFED ON DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS WHICH INCLUDED THE COMPLETION OF THE LUNG TIN ESTATE PHASE II AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF A SHELTERED ANCHORAGE IN THE EARLY 1990’S.

BEFORE LEAVING TAI O, THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON VISITED THE BUDDHIST FAT HO MEMORIAL COLLEGE WHERE THEY MET STAFF AND STUDENTS AND WHILE THERE THEY ALSO DISCUSSED WITH OTHER LOCAL HEADMASTERS VARIOUS EDUCATION MATTERS AND PROBLEMS FACED BY THE VILLAGE SCHOOLS.

THE PARTY THEN FLEW BY HELICOPTER TO CHEUNG CHAU WHERE THEY WERE MET BY THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM WAI-KEUNG, CHEUNG CHAU RURAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR FUNG PAK-TAI, AND DISTRICT LANDS OFFICER, MR WAN MIN-KEE.

A BRIEFING WAS GIVEN ON DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS CONCERNING THE PROVISION OF ESSENTIAL INFRASTRUCTURE, COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND PUBLIC HOUSING.

SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON WERE TOLD THAT THE SECOND ESTATE ON CHEUNG CHAU, TO BE BUILT AT SIN YAN TSENG, WOULD START TAKING IN RESIDENTS IN LATE 1992 AND AN INDOOR RECREATION CENTRE WOULD BE COMPLETED AT NAM SHE TONG IN EARLY 1991.

THEY THEN PROCEEDED TO THE PRAYA, THROUGH THE BUSTLING STREETS, AND WERE BRIEFED ON PLANS FOR A $41.5 MILLION MARKET COMPLEX TO BE BUILT NEXT YEAR. THIS WOULD SOLVE HAWKER PROBLEMS.

NEXT, THE PARTY VISITED THE RENOVATED ’’STRAWHUT OF THE LAW FAMILY’’ WHERE THE GROUND FLOOR WAS USED AS AN ANCESTRAL HALL AND THE FAMILY ELDERS LIVED ON THE SECOND FLOOR. THEY ALSO VISITED THE 200-YEAR-OLD PAK TEI TEMPLE, WHICH HOUSES SEVERAL RELICS SUCH AS A LARGE IRON SWORD AND A SEDAN CHAIR.

BEFORE CONCLUDING THEIR VISIT TO THE ISLANDS DISTRICT, SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON ATTENDED A TEA RECEPTION AT AN OPEN AREA IN FRONT OF THE PAK TEI TEMPLE, AND MET MEMBERS OF THE DISTRICT BOARD AND THE RURAL COMMITTEES AND OTHER LOCAL PERSONALITIES.

SIR DAVID WAS PRESENTED WITH A SCROLL BY A WELL KNOWN LOCAL CALLIGRAPHER.

-----0------

/4.......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 4 -

CS LOOKS OVER ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES

* * * * »

/ THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, TODAY (THURSDAY) VISITED THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND DESCRIBED ITS WORK AS "TREMENDOUSLY IMPRESSIVE IN TECHNICAL TERMS".

HE WAS MET ON ARRIVAL BY THE DIRECTOR OF ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES, MR GRAHAM OSBORNE, AND OTHER SENIOR STAFF BEFORE TOURING THE MAJOR WORKSHOPS IN THE EMSD HEADQUARTERS IN CAROLINE HILL ROAD.

MR FORD WAS BRIEFED ON THE EMSD’S MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITIES, WHICH INCLUDE ADVISING THE GOVERNMENT ON ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING SERVICES, ELECTRICAL, MECHANICAL AND ELECTRONIC INSTALLATIONS, MONITORING THEIR COMPLIANCE WITH STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS AND ENSURING THAT SAFETY STANDARDS ARE MAINTAINED.

THE DEPARTMENT IS ALSO RESPONSIBLE FOR ADVISING THE GOVERNMENT ON ALL MATTERS RELATING TO THE TOWN-GAS AND LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS INDUSTRIES IN HONG KONG.

ITS OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE THE DESIGN, INSTALLATION, COMMISSIONING, OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF ALL MAJOR GOVERNMENT BUILDING SERVICES, ELECTRICAL, MECHANICAL AND ELECTRONIC INSTALLATIONS, INCLUDING WASTE DISPOSAL AND SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANTS, AND THE UPKEEP OF THE GOVERNMENT’S FLEET OF 6,000 VEHICLES.

APART FROM THE DEPARTMENT’S 230 PROFESSIONAL OFFICERS TRAINED IN THE BUILDING SERVICES, ELECTRICAL, MECHANICAL AND ELECTRONIC DISCIPLINES, ABOUT TWO-THIRDS OF THE 7,500 STAFF ARE HIGHLY-SKILLED ARTISANS AND TECHNICIANS.

DEPLOYED IN MORE THAN 130 DIFFERENT LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY, THEY ARE ENGAGED IN THE MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION OF A VAST RANGE OF MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL, ELECTRONIC AND AIR-CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT.

THE DEPARTMENT HAS FOUR FUNCTIONAL BRANCHES INVOLVED RESPECTIVELY IN MANAGEMENT SERVICES, BUILDING SERVICES, PROJECTS AND DEVELOPMENT, AND WORKS AND SERVICES.

- - 0 -

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 5 -

GUIDELINES DEFINE MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES *****

A NEW SET OF DRAFTING GUIDELINES SCHEDULED FOR IMPLEMENTATION ON DECEMBER 1, 1987, WILL ENSURE THAT NEW DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT PROVIDE A MORE EFFECTIVE FRAMEWORK FOR THE BETTER MANAGEMENT OF MULTISTOREY BUILDINGS, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).

"THE GUIDELINES, TO BE REVIEWED AFTER ONE YEAR, WILL LIMIT THE PERIOD OF MANAGEMENT BY THE DEVELOPER TO TWO YEARS AND WILL CLEARLY DEFINE THE POWERS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE MANAGER. A SCALE OF RENUMERATION FOR THE MANAGER WILL ALSO BE SPELT OUT AND THE MANAGER WILL BE REQUIRED TO LIAISE REGULARLY WITH THE OWNERS FOR BETTER COMMUNICATION PURPOSES," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.

"THE GUIDELINES WILL REQUIRE A CLEAR DEFINITION OF COMMON PARTS AND THEIR PLANS TO BE ATTACHED TO THE DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT, AND THE MANAGER WILL BE REQUIRED TO MAKE A CHINESE TRANSLATION OF THE DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT AVAILABLE FOR THE REFERENCE OF THE OWNERS," HE SAID.

THE LAW SOCIETY OF HONG KONG WILL BE PLAYING AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GUIDELINES WHICH HAVE BEEN TURNED INTO A PRACTICE DIRECTION FOR LEGAL PRACTITIONERS.

"SOLICITORS WILL IN FUTURE HAVE TO FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES WHEN DRAFTING DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT FOR ALL NEWLY CONSTRUCTED NON-1NDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS, ARISING FROM BOTH NEW DEVELOPMENT AND REDEVELOPMENT, EXCEPT THOSE LARGE ESTATES FOR WHICH THE DEVELOPER HAS GIVEN AN UNDERTAKING TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE ESTATE FOR THE WHOLE OF THE LEASED PERIOD," THE SPOKESMAN NOTED.

"FURTHERMORE, ALL DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT ARISING FROM NEW NON-INDUSTRIAL LEASES GRANTED SINCE FEBRUARY 1986 ARE REQUIRED TO BE VETTED BY THE REGISTRAR GENERAL," HE SAID.

"IN VETTING DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT OF THESE NEW DEVELOPMENTS, THE REGISTRAR GENERAL WILL GIVE HIS APPROVAL ONLY 1F HE IS SATISFIED THAT THE GUIDELINES HAVE BEEN FOLLOWED," HE ADDED.

THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT 18 DISTRICT BOARDS, EXCEPT ISLANDS DISTRICT WHERE MULTI-STOREY BUILDINGS ARE UNCOMMON, THE LAW SOCIETY OF HONG KONG AND A NUMBER OF PROFESSIONAL INSTITUTIONS HAD BEEN CONSULTED BEFORE THE NEW GUIDELINES WERE DRAWN UP.

"THESE BODIES HAVE BEEN MOST FORTHCOMING AND MANY OF THEIR CONSTRUCTIVE COMMENTS HAVE BEEN INCORPORATED INTO THE GUIDELINES," HE SAID.

-----o------

/6........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 6 -

MUSIC OFFICE CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY » * ♦ ♦ *

ESTABLISHED IN 1977, THE MUSIC OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH IS CELEBRATING ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A COLOURFUL PROGRAMME PROVIDING ENTERAINMENT TO PEOPLE ALL OVER THE TERRITORY.

ANNOUNCING DETAILS OF THE OFFICE’S CELEBRATIONS AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (THURSDAY), THE COMMISSIONER FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR CLIVE OXLEY, SAID THAT OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS THE MUSIC OFFICE HOPED TO BRING HOME TO THE PEOPLE THAT IT HAD BEEN SERVING AND WOULD CONTINUE TO SERVE THE WHOLE COMMUNITY. THIS WAS BOTH IN PROVIDING INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC TRAINING TO YOUNG PEOPLE AS WELL AS IN PROMOTING MUSIC PROGRAMMES IN ALL DISTRICTS, PROVIDING MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT TO YOUNG AND OLD.

LOOKING BACK OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS, MR OXLEY SAID THE MUSIC OFFICE IN 1978 HAD FOUR MUSIC CENTRES, AND NOW THERE WERE SEVEN CENTRES - ONE IN HONG KONG, THREE IN KOWLOON AND THREE IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, AS WELL AS A HEADQUARTERS.

TODAY THERE WERE SOME 4,500 TRAINEES, COMPARED WITH 350 IN 1977.

MR OXLEY RECALLED THAT IN 1977, THE INSTRUCTORS, NUMBERING ABOUT 30, WERE PART-TIME WORKERS. ’’TODAY WE HAVE AN ESTABLISHMENT OF 79 FULL-TIME PROFESSIONALS, TEACHING 34 DIFFERENT TYPES OF CHINESE AND WESTERN MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AS WELL AS MANAGING 20 YOUTH ORCHESTRAS, BANDS AND CHOIRS,” HE SAID.

ALTOGETHER, OVER 3,700 MUS IC-FOR-THE-MILLIONS CONCERTS HAD BEEN STAGED, HE SAID.

OUTLINING THE CELEBRATION PROGRAMME, THE MUSIC ADMINISTRATOR, MRS DORIS HO, SAID THE COMING WEEKS WOULD PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR TRAINEES TO SHARE THEIR MUSIC WITH PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE.

BESIDES CONCERTS IN THE CITY HALL, BANDS WILL PERFORM IN PLAYGROUNDS, AND STRING BANDS WILL PERFORM AT SCHOOLS AND SHOPPING CENTRES, AND, IN ADDITION, MUSICIANS WILL ALSO VISIT HOSPITALS.

A SCHOOL BAND FROM THE USA, THE TREMPER GOLDEN STRINGS, FROM TREMPER HIGH SCHOOL IN WISCONSIN, WILL TAKE PART IN THE PROGRAMME.

THE HAMAMATSU COMMERCIAL HIGH SCHOOL BAND FROM JAPAN WILL ALSO GIVE PERFORMANCES.

OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDE CONCERTS, CONTESTS, LECTURES, MASTERCLASSES, AND DEMONSTRATION WORKSHOPS.

THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF CONCERTS WILL BE THE OPENING CONCERT IN THE ’’CHINESE WEEK” TO BE HELD AT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14). SOME 400 MEMBERS OF THE CHINESE ORCHESTRAS OF THE MUSK’ OFFICE WILL BE PERFORMING.

/DURING the........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 198?

DURING THE CELEBRATION WEEK, THREE GUEST MUSICIANS FROM CHINA WILL CONTRIBUTE TO THE PROGRAMME AND THERE IS ALSO AN EVENING OF CHINESE FOLK AND OPERATIC MUSIC ON NOVEMBER 20.

A FIRST FOR THE MUSIC OFFICE WILL BE A YOUTH STRING MUSIC WEEK TO BE HELD FROM NOVEMBER 29 TO DECEMBER 6.

LADY WILSON WILL ATTEND AN EVENING CONCERT ON DECEMBER 28 AT

WHICH ALL THE PERFORMERS WILL BE AGED UNDER 14 YEARS.

THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, WILL ADDRESS THE TRAINEES AT THE ANNUAL TRAINEES’ GALA TO BE HELD ON JANUARY 24. OVER 1,000 TRAINEES AND ORCHESTRAL MEMBERS WILL PERFORM THAT AFTERNOON.

--------o----------

WORLD’S BIGGEST POSTER FORMED BY CYC MEMBERS * * » »

FOUR HUNDRED MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB (CYC) OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) COMPOSED THE WORLD’S BIGGEST POSTER ON THE THEME OF "HONG KONG - MY HOME" IN AN ATTEMPT TO GAIN AN ENTRY IN THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS. THE POSTER WAS FORMED AT TWO FOOTBALL PITCHES IN THE VICTORIA PARK, CAUSEWAY BAY. MEASURING 50 X 50 METRES, IT WAS 25 PER CENT BIGGER THAN THE EXISTING RECORD IN THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS WHICH WAS SET BY STUDENTS OF THE OSAKA GAKUIN UNIVERSITY IN JAPAN IN OCTOBER 1984.

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN FROM A ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE HELICOPTER WILL BE SENT TO THE EDITORIAL BOARD OF THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS TO SEEK RECOGNITION AS THE LARGEST POSTER TN THE WORLD.

THE POSTER WAS MADE UP OF 15,000 PIECES OF CARDBOARD PAINTED BY 1,200 STUDENTS FROM 25 PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS. SOME 600 LITRES OF PAINT WERE USED.

THE POSTER WILL REAPPEAR AT THE 1OTH ANNIVERSARY ANNUAL PARADE OF CYC AT THE HONG KONG COLISEUM ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20. THE CARDBOARD WILL THEN BE CUT UP INTO 90,000 CHRISTMAS CARDS AND SOLD TO THE PUBLIC TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE ELDERLY. A SUM OF $450,000 IS EXPECTED TO BE RAISED.

SPEAKING AT A CEREMONY TO MARK THE COMPLETION OF THE POSTER, THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y.T. LI, SAID THE THEME OF THE POSTER WAS CHOSEN TO PROMOTE CIVIC AWARENESS AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE WITH A VIEW TO PROMOTING A SENSE OF BELONGING.

THE ATTEMPT ALSO SOUGHT TO INSPIRE YOUNG PEOPLE TO DO BETTER AND MORE IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE MORE AND TO ALLOW THEM TO EXPERIENCE A SPIRIT OF CAMARADERIE.

_ _ - - 0 ------------

/8........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 8 -

ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY FACING A CHALLENGE *****

THE EMERGENCE OF APPLICATIONS SPECIFIC INTEGRATED CIRCUITS (ASIC) AND SURFACE MOUNT TECHNOLOGY (SMT) IN RECENT YEARS PRESENTS A CHALLENGE TO HONG KONG’S ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY, THE DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR K.Y. YEUNG, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).

SPEAKING AT A SEMINAR ORGANISED BY THE AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, MR YEUNG SAID IF HONG KONG’S ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY DID NOT RESPOND TO NEW TECHNOLOGIES, TWO TRENDS WERE LIKELY TO EMERGE.

’’FIRST, PRODUCTION REPRESENTED BY SIMPLE MANUAL ASSEMBLY WORK IS LIKELY TO BE TRANSFERRED OUT OF HONG KONG TO COUNTRIES WHERE LABOUR AND OTHER COSTS ARE RELATIVELY LOW,” HE SAID.

’’SECONDLY, PRODUCTION INVOLVING MORE COMPLEX PROCESSES AND RESULTING IN HIGHER VALUE-ADDED PRODUCTS WOULD MOVE AWAY FROM HONG KONG TO COUNTRIES THAT ARE MORE TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED.”

MR YEUNG SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD COME TO THE VIEW THAT THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY MUST SEEK TO MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE ITS COMPETITIVENESS AND THAT THERE WERE CERTAIN AREAS IN WHICH THE GOVERNMENT HAD AN IMPORTANT ROLE TO PLAY.

’’THE GOVERNMENT IS AIMING TO CREATE AN ENVIRONMENT THAT WOULD ENABLE THE INDUSTRY TO CROSS THE TECHNOLOGICAL AND OTHER BARRIERS WHICH STAND IN THE WAY OF IT BECOMING MORE COMPETITIVE,” HE SAID.

MR YEUNG SAID IN TERMS OF MANPOWER TRAINING, INDUSTRIAL LAND

AND ACCOMMODATION AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT SERVICES AND FACILITIES, PUBLIC SECTOR WAS PLAYING A STRONG ENABLING ROLE IN HELPING ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY TO MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE ITS COMPETITIVENESS.

THE

WHILE NOTING THAT THERE WAS NOW GREATER AWARENESS IN THE INDUSTRY OF THE RELEVANCE OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND OF THE NEED TO UPGRADE ITSELF, MR YEUNG ADDED THAT GIVEN THE FURTHER STIMULUS PROVIDED BY PUBLIC SECTOR SERVICES AND FACILITIES, ENTREPRENEURS WOULD BE MORE WILLING TO INVEST IN PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT, IN THE MASTERING AND APPLICATION OF NEW TECHNOLOGY AND IN MOVING INTO TOTAL QUALITY.

- - 0------------

/9........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 9 -

91,700 LIVESTOCK STRUCTURES REGISTERED

*****

A TOTAL OF 91,700 LIVESTOCK STRUCTURES WERE RECORDED IN THE URBAN AREA AND THE NEW TERRITORIES DURING A SURVEY CONDUCTED BY GOVERNMENT STAFF BETWEEN OCTOBER 15 AND NOVEMBER 7.

THE SURVEY, CARRIED OUT SUBSEQUENT TO THE PASSAGE OF THE WASTE DISPOSAL (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE, WAS TO REGISTER ALL EXISTING LIVESTOCK FARMS IN ORDER TO ESTABLISH THEIR PRELIMINARY ELIGIBILITY FOR EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS UNDER THE LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL SCHEME.

ABOUT 258 TEAMS, COMPRISING SOME 700 STAFF FROM THE HOUSING, WATER SUPPLIES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENTS TOOK PART IN CONDUCTING THE SURVEY, WHICH RECEIVED VERY GOOD CO-OPERATION FROM LIVESTOCK FARMERS.

AN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THOSE FARMERS WHO CLAIMED THAT THEIR LIVESTOCK FARMS OR LIVESTOCK STRUCTURES WERE NOT VISITED BY SURVEY STAFF SHOULD CONTACT THE DEPARTMENT ON TELEPHONE NUMBER : 3-7332292, 3-7332293 OR 3-7332296 BEFORE NOVEMBER 17, 1987.

DETAILED SURVEYS COVERING ALL THE LIVESTOCK STRUCTURES WILL BE CONDUCTED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT IMMEDIATELY BEFORE CONTROLS COME INTO OPERATION TO DETERMINE THE ACTUAL AMOUNT DUE TO INDIVIDUAL FARMS UNDER THE PROPOSED COMPENSATION SCHEME.

-----o-----

SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT FESTIVAL TO START NEXT WEEK * * *

A FIVE-WEEK DISTRICT FESTIVAL FEATURING MORE THAN 60 CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL, SPORTS AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES WILL BE HELD IN SHAM SHUI PO FROM MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16).

THE FESTIVAL WILL KICK OFF WITH AN OPENING CEREMONY AND VARIETY SHOW ON MONDAY EVENING AT THE HONG KONG COLISEUM. EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MISS LYDIA DUNN, AND THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR T.H. CHAU, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.

THE THEME OF THE FESTIVAL IS TO PROMOTE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION. IT IS ORGANISED BY THE 1987 SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT FESTIVAL CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE WITH ASSISTANCE FROM THE DISTRICT OFFICE, THE SHAM SHUI PO ARTS ASSOCIATION AND SPORTS ASSOCIATION, AND IS SPONSORED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD AND THE URBAN COUNCIL.

/AT A........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

10 -

, AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (THURSDAY), THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE, MR KWOK CHEONG, SAID: "THE FESTIVAL IS ESTIMATED TO COST $1.8 MILLION, WITH $500,000 SPONSORSHIP FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD AND THE REST FROM LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS."

"WITH THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION THEME, WE HOPE THE FESTIVAL WILL BE ABLE TO ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS’ SUPPORT IN THE 1988 DISTRICT BOARD ELECTIONS," HE ADDED.

PUBLICITY FOR THE FESTIVAL HAS BEGUN EARLIER THIS MONTH WITH 250 BUNTING AND BANNERS MOUNTED THROUGHOUT THE DISTRICT, AND "PAI LAUS" PUT UP NEAR THE SHAM SHUI PO CLOCK TOWER AND THE MAPLE STREET PLAYGROUND. SHOW WINDOWS OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND SUB-OFFICES HAVE ALSO BEEN REDECORATED.

FREE PROGRAMME PAMPHLETS OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND SUB-OFFICES.

THE FESTIVAL WILL END ON DECEMBER 20 (SUNDAY) WITH A CLOSING CEREMONY AND SPORTS CARNIVAL AT THE NEW SHAM SHUI PO SPORTS GROUND, CHEUNG SHA WAN ROAD.

OTHER ACTIVITIES OF THE FESTIVAL INCLUDE A CANTONESE OPERA PERFORMANCE BY THE CHOR FUNG MING GROUP, SUB-DISTRICT FESTIVALS ORGANISED BY EACH OF THE 10 AREA COMMITTEES IN SHAM SHUI PO, AN ATHLETIC MEET, AND A JOINT SCHOOL TELEMATCH.

-----0------

SIX ANIMALS, PANDA SKIN FLOWN TO PEKING

« » t » «

A GIANT PANDA SKIN AND SIX ENDANGERED ANIMALS SEIZED BY THE GOVERNMENT AS A RESULT OF STRICT ENFORCEMENT ACTION WERE FLOWN TO PEKING TODAY (THURSDAY).

THE PANDA SKIN CAME INTO THE CUSTODY OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT IN JULY AFTER A CHINESE SEAMAN WAS APPREHENDED AND PROSECUTED FOR SMUGGLING IT AND A GOLDEN SNUB-NOSED MONKEY SKIN INTO THE TERRITORY.

THE LIVE ENDANGERED ANIMALS IN THE CONSIGNMENT WERE TWO RHESUS MONKEYS AND FOUR ALLIGATORS, ALL OF WHICH WERE PROTECTED UNDER THE ANIMALS AND PLANTS (PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES) ORDINANCE.

THIS WAS THE TENTH CONSIGNMENT OF ENDANGERED SPECIES TRANSPORTED TO CHINA SINCE 1984. THE PREVIOUS CONSIGNMENTS INVOLVED 14H RARE ANIMALS INCLUDING AN ASIATIC BROWN BEAR, AN ASIATIC BLACK BEAR, FIVE CROCODILES, 29 GIANT SALAMANDERS AND TWO SERPENT EAGLES.

/TODAY'S EXERCISE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

TODAY’S EXERCISE WAS ARRANGED IN CONJUNCTION WITH CHINA’S ENDANGERED SPECIES OF WILD FAUNA AND FLORA IMPORT AND EXPORT ADMINISTRATION OFFICE.

THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT’S ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (CONSERVATION AND COUNTRY PARKS), MR K.C. IU, SAID THAT AS A PARTICIPANT IN THE CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES OF WILD FAUNA AND FLORA (CITES), HONG KONG ENJOYED VERY GOOD CO-OPERATION WITH THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES IN THE WORLDWIDE EFFORT TO SAVE RARE SPECIES FROM EXTINCTION.

"IN CONFORMITY WITH THE CITES SPIRIT, THE DEPARTMENT STRICTLY PROHIBITS UNAUTHORISED IMPORT, EXPORT AND POSSESSION OF RARE ANIMALS, BIRDS OR PLANTS OR THEIR PARTS AND DERIVATIVES," HE SAID.

"FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE LAW MAY LEAD TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $5,000 FOR THE FIRST OFFENCE, AND $10,000 FINE PLUS SIX MONTHS’IMPRISONMENT FOR A REPEAT OFFENCE," HE SAID.

- 0 ----------

RAINFALL BELOW NORMAL IN OCTOBER

*****

OCTOBER WAS THE THIRD CONSECUTIVE MONTH IN WHICH THE RAINFALL WAS BELOW NORMAL, WITH A TOTAL AMOUNT OF ONLY 72.7 MILLIMETRES. THIS AMOUNT WAS 40 PER CENT BELOW THE NORMAL OCTOBER RAINFALL OF 121.2 MILLIMETRES. HOWEVER, THE TOTAL RAINFALL UP TO THE END OF OCTOBER WAS STILL ABOUT FOUR PER CENT ABOVE THE NORMAL FOR THE 10-MONTH PERIOD. THE MEAN MINIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 24.2 DEGREES WAS THE SECOND HIGHEST ON RECORD FOR OCTOBER.

THE ONLY TROPICAL CYCLONE THAT AFFECTED HONG KONG DURING THE MONTH WAS LYNN. IT NECESSITATED THE HOISTING OF THE STRONG WIND SIGNAL NO. 3 FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR.

FOLLOWING ON FROM THE WEATHER PATTERN AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER, CONDITIONS ON OCTOBER 1 REMAINED CLOUDY WITH SOME LIGHT RAIN. HOWEVER, AS EASTERLY WINDS WEAKENED TOWARDS THE END OF THE DAY, THE SKY BEGAN TO CLEAR. GENERALLY FINE WEATHER PREVAILED THROUGH OCTOBER 3 EXCEPT FOR A FEW BRIEF SHOWERS ON THAT DAY.

A SURGE OF THE NORTHEAST MONSOON ARRIVED DURING THE EARLY HOURS OF OCTOBER 4 BUT THE WEATHER CONTINUED TO BE FINE. THESE CONDITIONS LASTED UNTIL OCTOBER 7 WHEN A TROUGH OF LOW PRESSURE FORMED OVER CENTRAI. CHINA AND BEGAN TO MOVE RAPIDLY SOUTHWARDS. IT REACHED THE SOUTH CHINA COAST ON OCTOBER 8 AND GAVE RISE TO THUNDERSTORMS IN HONG KONG DURING THE DAY.

/MODERATE TO........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

12 -

MODERATE TO FRESH EASTERLY WINDS KEPT THE SKY CLOUDY ON OCTOBER 9. HOWEVER, THE WEATHER BECAME FINE THE NEXT DAY AB THE EASTERLY WINDS SLACKENED.

FINE WEATHER PREVAILED BETWEEN OCTOBER 10 AND 14 ALTHOUGH SOME BRIEF SHOWERS OCCURRED OVERNIGHT ON OCTOBER 11 AND 12. PLENTY OF SUNSHINE AND SOUTHERLY WINDS CAUSED THE TEMPERATURE ON OCTOBER 11 TO REACH 30.7 DEGREES, WHICH WAS THE HIGHEST DURING THE MONTH.

A COLD FRONT REACHED THE SOUTH CHINA COAST ON OCTOBER 16. SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS OVER HONG KONG HERALDED ITS ARRIVAL. AFTER THE PASSAGE OF THE COLD FRONT, THE WEATHER TURNED FINE ON OCTOBER 16 AND REMAINED SO UNTIL OCTOBER 17.

AS ANOTHER WEAK COLD FRONT APPROACHED THE SOUTH CHINA COAST ON OCTOBER 18 THE SKY BECAME CLOUDY AGAIN. HOWEVER, FINE WEATHER RETURNED THE NEXT DAY AFTER THE COLD FRONT HAD MOVED TO THE SOUTH OF HONG KONG.

A SURGE OF THE NORTHEAST MONSOON ARRIVED AT HONG KONG ON THE NIGHT OF OCTOBER 19 AND THE WINDS BECAME FRESH EASTERLY OFFSHORE. CLOUDY CONDITIONS AND INTERMITTENT LIGHT RAIN BEGAN TO SET IN OVERNIGHT AND PERSISTED UNTIL OCTOBER 21.

ON OCTOBER 21, A COLD FRONT OVER CENTRAL CHINA MOVED SLOWLY SOUTHWARDS AND REACHED THE SOUTH CHINA COAST ON OCTOBER 22. ALTHOUGH THE RELATIVE HUMIDITY DROPPED AFTER THE ARRIVAL OF THE COLD FRONT, THE WEATHER REMAINED CLOUDY UNTIL THE MORNING OF OCTOBER 23.

MEANWHILE, OVER THE WESTERN PACIFIC TO THE EAST OF THE PHILIPPINES, TYPHOON LYNN WAS HEADING TOWARDS THE LUZON STRAIT. THE PREVAILING NORTHEAST MONSOON OVER SOUTHEASTERN CHINA WAS ENHANCED BY THE CIRCULATION ASSOCIATED WITH LYNN AND STRONG WINDS OCCURRED OVER THE SOUTH CHINA COASTAL WATERS DURING THE DAY ON OCTOBER 23 WHEN LYNN WAS STILL ABOUT 1,000 KILOMETRES AWAY FROM HONG KONG.

WITH LYNN CONTINUING TO MOVE CLOSER TO HONG KONG, THE STAND BY SIGNAL NO. 1 WAS HOISTED AT 11 PM ON OCTOBER 23. THE INCREASING THREAT OF LYNN NECESSITATED THE HOISTING OF THE STRONG WIND SIGNAL, NO. 3, AT 5 AM ON OCTOBER 24. DURING THE DAY, WINDS WITHIN THE HARBOUR WERE FRESH TO STRONG WHILE THOSE OFFSHORE OCCASIONALLY REACHED GALE FORCE. THE STRONG GUSTY WINDS ON OCTOBER 24 BLEW DOWN SOME BILLBOARDS AND TREES.

STRONG GUSTY WINDS PERSISTED OFFSHORE AND IN EXPOSED AREAS EARLY ON OCTOBER 25. HOWEVER, WINDS MODERATED DURING THE AFTERNOON AS TYPHOON LYNN WEAKENED TO A SEVERE TROPICAL STORM. AS LYNN WAS EXPECTED TO WEAKEN FURTHER, THE STRONG WIND SIGNAL NO. 3 WAS REPLACED BY THE STAND BY SIGNAL NO. 1 AT 3 PM ON OCTOBER 25. RAIN ASSOCIATED WITH LYNN AFFECTED HONG KONG THAT EVENING.

/DURING the .......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 13

DURING THE EARLY MORNING OF OCTOBER 26 THE TEMPERATURE DROPPED TO 19.7 DEGREES, WHICH WAS THE LOWEST SO FAR THIS AUTUMN. WITH LYNN WEAKENING FURTHER AND NO LONGER POSING A THREAT TO HONG KONG, THE STAND BY SIGNAL NO. 1 WAS LOWERED AT 4 PM ON OCTOBER 26. THE WEATHER THAT DAY REMAINED CLOUDY.

ALTHOUGH LYNN WEAKENED TO AN AREA OF LOW PRESSURE IN THE AFTERNOON OF OCTOBER 27, SHOWERS AND ISOLATED THUNDERSTORMS ASSOCIATED WITH ITS REMNANT AFFECTED HONG KONG BETWEEN OCTOBER 27 AND 29. THIS RAIN EPISODE CONTRIBUTED TO MOST OF THE RAINFALL FOR THE MONTH.

AFTER THE FINAL DISSIPATION OF THE REMNANT OF LYNN, THE WEATHER TURNED FINE ON OCTOBER 30. HOWEVER, ANOTHER WEAK SURGE OF THE NORTHEAST MONSOON BROUGHT CLOUDY SKIES AND INTERMITTENT LIGHT RAIN OVERNIGHT ON OCTOBER 30. SUCH CONDITIONS LASTED UNTIL THE END OF THE MONTH.

A TOTAL OF FIVE TROPICAL CYCLONES OCCURRED OVER THE WESTERN NORTH PACIFIC AND THE SOUTH CHINA SEA DURING OCTOBER.

DURING OCTOBER, NO AIRCRAFT WAS DIVERTED FROM HONG KONG DUE TO ADVERSE WEATHER. THUNDERSTORM WARNINGS WERE ISSUED ON OCTOBER 3, 8, 15 AND 29. THE RED FIRE DANGER WARNING WAS IN EFFECT ON OCTOBER 25 AND 31. THE YELLOW FIRE DANGER WARNING WAS IN EFFECT ON OCTOBER 7, 8, 11, 17, 18, 24 AND 25.

SIGNALS HOISTED DURING THE MONTH WERE AS FOLLOWS:

WEATHER SYSTEM SIGNAL DATE AND TIME DATE AND TIME

OF HOISTING OF LOWERING

TYPHOON LYNN 1 OCTOBER 23 11 PM OCTOBER 24 5 AM

3 OCTOBER 24 5 AM OCTOBER 25 3 PM

1 OCTOBER 25 3 PM OCTOBER 26 4 PM

WINTER MONSOON STRONG OCTOBER 28 4.47 AM OCTOBER 28

MONSOON 12 NOON

THE MONTH’S FIGURES AND DEPARTURES FROM NORMAL WERE:

SUNSHINE

GLOBAL SOLAR RADIATION

RAINFALL

176.3 HOURS ; 33.6 HOURS BELOW

NORMAL

13.54 M.J/SQUARE ; 2.38 MJ/SQUARE METRE

METRE BELOW NORMAL

72.7 MM ; 48.5 MM BELOW NORMAL

/CLOUDINESS........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 198?

CLOUDINESS

- 14 -

61 PER CENT

RELATIVE HUMIDITY 80 PER CENT

9 PER CENT MORE THAN NORMAL

8 PER CENT HIGHER THAN NORMAL

MEAN MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE 27.8 DEGREES

CELSIUS

0.1 DEGREE CELSIUS

BELOW NORMAL

MEAN TEMPERATURE

MEAN MINIMUM TEMPERATURE

MEAN DEW POINT

TOTAL EVAPORATION

25.7 DEGREES

CELSIUS

24.2 DEGREES

CELSIUS

21.9 DEGREES

CELSIUS

109.7 MM

0.7 DEGREE CELSIUS

ABOVE NORMAL

1.5 DEGREES CELSIUS

ABOVE NORMAL

2.6 DEGRESS CELSIUS

ABOVE NORMAL

50.9 1 KM BELOW NORMAL

-------0 ---------

CAREERS EXHIBITION ATTRACTS LARGE CROWD ♦ ♦ ♦ » ♦

THE CAREERS EXHIBITION ’88 NOW BEING HELI) AT THE SHATIN TOWN HALL HAS PROVED TO BE VERY POPULAR AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE.

SINCE ITS OPENING LAST SATURDAY, MORE THAN 40,000 PEOPLE, MOST OF THEM SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS, HAVE VISITED THE EXHIBITION.

A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (THURSDAY) SAID THE LARGE NUMBER OF VISITORS WAS MOST ENCOURAGING PARTICULARLY AS THE EVENT WAS HELD IN THE NEW TERRITORIES FOR THE FIRST TIME.

HE CALLED ON THE PUBLIC TO VISIT THE EXHIBITION BEFORE IT CLOSED ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16).

AS PART OF THE PROGRAMME, A SERIES OF CAREER TALKS AND VIDEO SHOWS ON TRAINING AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR FORM 3 TO 7 STUDENTS IS BEING ORGANISED DAILY.

IN ADDITION, TWO OUTDOOR CAREER SHOWS WILL BE HELD BETWEEN 10 AM AND 5 PM BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) AND BY THE AUXILIARY SERVICES ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15).

THE SHOWS WILL BE STAGED OUTSIDE THE SHATIN TOWN HALL.

--------0----------

/15........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 15 -

TSUEN WAN ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE TO MEET *****

THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL AND TRANSPORT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS THE VARIOUS OPTIONS FOR THE FUTURE GRASS AND UNDERGROWTH CUTTING IN THE DISTRICT AT A MEETING TOMORROW (FRIDAY).

QUESTIONS ON THE COMPREHENSIVE REDEVELOPMENT AREA RELATING TO THE TOWN PLANNING OF THE DISTRICT WILL ALSO BE RAISED.

THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM IN THE MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, SECOND FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, 174-208 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, TSUEN WAN.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING.

-----o------

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS RURAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME

*»»»»»

THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE WILL MEET TOMORROW (FRIDAY) TO DISCUSS THE PROGRESS OF PUBLIC WORKS FOR IMPROVING THE ENVIRONMENT IN RURAL AREAS.

THE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO CONSIDER VILLAGE PROJECTS SUCH AS FILLING IN OF POT-HOLES, AND REPAIRS TO FOOTPATHS AND FOOTBRIDGES.

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE A PROGRESS REPORT ON THE MINOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME AND A REPORT FROM THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE STREET MANAGEMENT WORKING GROUP.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD TOMORROW (FRIDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD, 13TH FLOOR, TAI K1U GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 2 KIU LOK SQUARE, YUEN LONG. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.

/16........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 16 -

ANTI-TRIAD SEMINAR IN TSUEN WAN *****

SOME 30 SCHOOL PRINCIPALS, DISCIPLINE MASTERS AND SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKERS WILL PARTICIPATE IN AN ANTI-TRIAD SEMINAR ORGANISED BY THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE TOMORROW (FRIDAY).

THE SEMINAR WILL SUPPORT THE TERRITORY-WIDE ANTI-TRIAD CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED BY THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE.

IT PROVIDES AN OPPORTUNITY FOR AN EXCHANGE OF VIEWS ON TRIAD PROBLEMS.

AMONG THOSE ATTENDING WILL BE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT FCC, MR CHOW KWAN-SING; THE POLICE REGIONAL COMMANDER FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR RICHARD SMALLSHAW; AND TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR WILLIAM SH1U.

THE SEMINAR WILL BE HELD AT THE HILLTOP COUNTRY C..UL, HILLTOP ROAD, TSUEN WAN. IT WILL START AT 2 PM.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SEMINAR.

A GOVERNMENT VAN HAS BEEN ARRANGED TO TAKE PRESS MEMBERS TO THE VENUE. IT WILL LEAVE THE ENTRANCE OF THE TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING AT SAI LAU KOK ROAD, TSUEN WAN, AT 1.40 PM.

--------0 ----------

SPORTS PROGRAMMES FOR SPECIAL TARGET GROUPS

*****

THE YOUNG, THE OLD AND THE DISABLED OF KWUN TONG WILL BE ABLE TO ENJOY A HOST OF FUN-FILLED SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS.

PRESENTED BY THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL '87, THE ACTIVITIES ARE SPECIALLY DESIGNED TO CATER FOR RESIDENTS’ INTERESTS AND NEEDS THE FESTIVAL RUNS FROM NOVEMBER 8 TO 22.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID THE PROGRAMMES TIED IN WITH THE OBJECTIVE TO ENCOURAGE PARTICIPATION OF RESIDENTS FROM DIFFERENT SECTORS AND AGE GROUPS.

/DETAILS OF .......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 17 -

DETAILS OF THE PROGRAMMES ARE AS FOLLOWS:

DATE AND TIME EVENT

VENUE

NOVEMBER 13 (FRIDAY) FUN DAY FOR THE DISABLED

9 AM - 1 PM

NOVEMBER 14 (SATURDAY) GAMES DAY FOR THE

9 AM - 1 PM ELDERLY AND TAIJI DEMONSTRATION

NOVEMBER 9 AM 15 (SUNDAY) - 1 PM MINI OLYMPIC

HIU KWONG STREET INDOOR GAMES HALL

FOK WAH PLAYGROUND, LOK WAH ESTATE

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENTS.

--------0----------

KWAI TSI NG STARTS CLEAN HK AND HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN ♦ ♦ t ♦ ♦

THE KWAI CHUNG AND TSING YI DISTRICT BOARD AND SEVERAL GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS WILL JOINTLY PUT ACROSS CLEAN HONG KONG AND HOME SAFETY MESSAGES TO RESIDENTS OF THE DISTRICT THIS SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14).

THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE DISTRICT’S CLEAN HONG KONG AND HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM ON SATURDAY AT THE HING FONG ROAD PLAYGROUND.

AN ANT I-MOSQUITOES DISPLAY AND EXHIBITIONS ON HOME SAFETY AND GAS SAFETY WILL BE SET UP AT THE VENUE BY THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

RESIDENTS MAY ALSO ENJOY A ONE-HOUR VARIETY SHOW ORGANISED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE OF THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD.

THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BRIAN COAK, THE KWAI CHUNG DISTRICT HYGIENE SUPERINTENDENT OF REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR CHOY SHU-KAI, AND THE DIVISION COMMANDER OF N.T. SOUTHERN DIVISION OF FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR C.W. CHEUNG, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.

/the chairman........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 198?

- 18 -

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE, MR CHOW SUM, AND CHAIRMAN OF THE CAMPAIGN, MR LEE SHUNG-SHIN, WILL ALSO BE PRESENT.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT’S CLEAN HONG KONG AND HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) AT THE HING FONG ROAD PLAYGROUND (NEAR KWAI FONG MTR). THE CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.

- 0

CARNIVAL TO PROMOTE MENTAL HEALTH * * * * *

A CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) AFTERNOON IN THE OPEN SQUARE OF SHA KOK ESTATE, SHA TIN, TO PROMOTE MENTAL HEALTH THROUGH PARTICIPATION BY RESIDENTS AND FORMER MENTAL PATIENTS.

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD’S WORKING GROUP ON COMMUNITY PSYCHIATRIC REHABILITATION EDUCATION AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, THE CARNIVAL WILL FEATURE SINGING, DRAMA, MAGIC SHOW, EDUCATIONAL VIDEO SHOW AND QUIZ. THERE WILL ALSO BE A CRAFT EXHIBITION AND 18 GAMES STALLS STAGED BY PATRONS OF HALF-WAY HOUSES.

SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR VICTOR YUNG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR NG CHAN-LAM; DISTRICT SOCIAL WELFARE OFFICER, MRS LESLIE HUNG AND SENIOR HOUSING MANAGER, MR CHEN YU-CHENG WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 1.30 PM.

ADMISSION TO THE EVENT IS FREE. FOR ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL 0-6048078.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE ON MENTAL HEALTH, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 1.30 PM ON (NOVEMBER 14) AT THE OPEN SQUARE OF SHA KOK ESTATE, SHA TIN.

CARNIVAL SATURDAY

--------0-----------

/19........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 19 -

VARIETY SHOW FOR MONG KOK EAST

* * » *

A VARIETY SHOW FEATURING LION DANCES, MAGIC, DANCING AND SINGING WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) NIGHT AT QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL.

THE FUNCTION HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE MONG KOK EAST AREA COMMITTEE TO PROVIDE FREE ENTERTAINMENT FOR RESIDENTS.

•'IT IS ALSO HOPED THAT BY PARTICIPATING IN COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES THE RESIDENTS CAN DEVELOP FURTHER THEIR SENSE OF BELONGING TO THE DISTRICT," A COMMITTEE SPOKEMAN SAID.

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING WILL BE LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MR JACKIE CHAN; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR CHOW CHUN-FAI; AND DISTRICT OFFICER, MRS BRENDA FUNG.

THE VARIETY SHOW, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 7.30 PM, IS SPONSORED BY THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING OF MONG KOK EAST VARIETY SHOW ON SATURDAY AT QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL, 152 SAI YEE STREET, MONG KOK. IT WILL BEGIN AT 7.30 PM.

--------0----------

SOUTHERN DISTRICT TO HOLD STUDENTS VARIETY SHOW ♦ ♦ ♦ * ♦

TALENTED STUDENTS IN THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT WILL GIVE A JOINT PERFORMANCE ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) AT SAN WUI COMMERCIAL SOCIETY CHAN PAK SHA SCHOOL IN SHUM WAN ROAD.

THE "SOUTHERN DISTRICT OUTSTANDING STUDENTS VARIETY SHOW", SPONSORED BY THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD AND THE URBAN COUNCIL, IS ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE SCHOOL LIAISON COMMITTEE AND THE ARTS AND CULTURE ASSOCIATION OF THE DISTRICT.

THE AIM OF THE FUNCTION IS TO ENABLE LOCAL STUDENTS TO INCREASE EXPERIENCE TN PERFORMING AND TO LEARN FROM EACH OTHER.

ABOUT 200 PRIMARY AND SECONDARY STUDENTS FROM 10 SCHOOLS WILL PERFORM IN THE VARIETY SHOW.

/THERE WILL.......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1?8?

20 -

THERE WILL BE CHINESE, WESTERN AND FOLK DANCES, CANTONESE OPERATIC SONGS, POETRY AND PROSE RECITATIONS, CHINESE AND WESTERN INSTRUMENTAL PERFORMANCES AS WELL AS SINGING AND DANCING BY BROWNIES.

THE SHOW WILL START AT 10 AM WITH A BRIEF OPENING CEREMONY. LOCAL STUDENTS AND RESIDENTS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND. ADMISSION IS FREE.

--------0 ----------

SPORTS FORTNIGHT FOR WONG TAI SIN RESIDENTS ♦ » * ♦ ♦

A SPORTS FORTNIGHT PROVIDING 15 EVENTS FOR RESIDENTS IN WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT, WILL BEGIN WITH A VARIETY SHOW AT THE MORSE PARK AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15).

THERE WILL BE PERFORMANCES BY A MOTOR-CYCLING TEAM AND A BAND, DEMONSTRATIONS OF MARTIAL ARTS, AND CHINESE FOLK DANCE.

FREE ADMISSION TICKETS CAN BE OBTAINED AT ANY OF THE FOUR BRANCH OFFICES OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE IN SAN PO KONG, LOK FU SHOPPING CENTRE, TZE WAN SHAN ESTATE AND CHOI WAN ESTATE.

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR MICHAEL CHENG; URBAN COUNCILLOR, MRS NELLIE FONG; AND WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR NG HONG-WAH.

THE SPORTS FORTNIGHT IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD, THE DISTRICT’S SPORTS AND RECREATION COUNCIL AND THE URBAN COUNCIL.

ACTIVITIES PROVIDED FOR RESIDENTS WILL INCLUDE AN EXCURSION TO THE PEAK FOR THE AGED, FEI NGO SHAN ROAD RACE, CANOEING TRAINING COURSE, SAILING TRAINING COURSE, WINDSURFING TRAINING COURSE FOR THE DEAF, RECREATION CAMP, FOOTBALL, TENNIS, SOCCER, BASKETBALL, VOLLEY BALL AND SQUASH.

THE CLOSING EVENT WILL BE A DISCO NIGHT TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 29.

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO TAKE PART AT THESE ACTIVITIES MAY MAKE APPLICATIONS AT THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT’S WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE (RECREATION, AMENITIES AND SPORTS) AT THE FOURTH FLOOR OF THE URBAN COUNCIL NGAU CHI WAN COMPLEX.

ENQUIRES MAY BE MADE AT 3-289262.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE WONG TAI SIN I) I STR I CT SPORTS FORTNIGHT TO BE HELD AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY AT THE MORSE PARK FOOTBALL PITCH.

------0--------

/21 .....

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

CIVIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN FOR FANLING RESIDENTS t ♦ * *

A MONTH-LONG EXERCISE TO PROMOTE CIVIC AWARENESS AND TO FOSTER A BETTER UNDERSTANDING ON DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION IS BEING LAUNCHED IN THE TIN SUM TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA IN FANLING.

THE ’BE A GOOD CITIZEN’ EXERCISE FEATURING EXHIBITION, CROSS-WORD PUZZLE AND QUIZ, WILL FOCUS ON THE THEME OF CIVIC RIGHTS AND DUTIES AS WELL AS ON THE ROLE AND FUNCTIONS OF THE DISTRICT BOARD.

THE EXHIBITION WILL BE STAGED IN THE OPEN SPACE OUTSIDE BLOCK 23 OF THE THA ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15) AND RESIDENTS CAN TAKE PART IN THE QUIZ AND CROSS-WORD PUZZLE COMPETITION.

A TEAM OF VOLUNTEERS WILL ALSO VISIT 1,400 HOUSEHOLDS IN THE AREA TO HELP ELIGIBLE RESIDENTS TO REGISTER AS ELECTORS BEFORE NOVEMBER 20 SO THAT THEY CAN VOTE IN THE NEXT DISTRICT BOARD ELECTIONS.

THE CIVIC EDUCATION EXERCISE IS ORGANISED BY THE FANLING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECT OF THE HONG KONG LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICE HONG KONG SYNOD AND IS SPONSORED BY THE NORTH DISTRICT STEERING COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION.

--------o ----------

ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL FOR KOWLOON CITY RESIDENTS *****

THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT WILL HOLD A ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15) TO PUBLICISE THE IMPORTANCE OF ROAD SAFETY AND PROVIDE AN AFTERNOON OF FUN TO RESIDENTS. THE CARNIVAL WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM AT THE ARGYLE STREET PLAYGROUND.

PROGRAMMES WILL INCLUDE GAMESTALLS, FOOT DRILL BY SCHOOL ROAD SAFETY PATROL TEAMS AND PERFORMANCES BY THE JUNIOR POLICE CALL ROTARY BAND. A PUBLICITY VAN WILL TOUR THE DISTRICT TO SPREAD THE ROAD SAFETY MESSAGE.

THERE WILL BE AN EXHIBITION BUS, A MOBILE ROAD SAFETY TOWN, EXHIBITION ON ROAD SAFETY CODES AND AN INFLATABLE BEAR TO ATTRACT CHILDREN.

KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR WONG SIK-KONG, DISTRICT OFFICER, MR ALEX FONG, AND KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT POLICE COMMANDER, MRS WONG LEUNG KAM-SHAN, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL OPENING AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15) AT THE ARGYLE STREET PLAYGROUND.

------o--------

/22 ......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 22 -

SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR SCOUT RALLY » ♦ » ♦ *

SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) IN HAPPY VALLEY AND CAUSEWAY BAY IN CONNECTION WITH THE SCOUT RALLY AT THE HONG KONG STADIUM.

FROM 2 PM, THE FOLLOWING ARRANGEMENTS WILL COME INTO EFFECT:

» CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN LINK ROAD AND STADIUM PATH WILL BE ROUTED ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND.

» CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN EASTERN HOSPITAL ROAD AND LEIGHTON ROAD/PENNINGTON STREET WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC.

* CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN COTTON PATH AND LEIGHTON ROAD/PENNINGTON STREET WILL BE ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND.

♦ EASTERN HOSPITAL ROAD BETWEEN STADIUM PATH AND TUNG LO WAN ROAD WILL BE ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND. VEHICULAR ACCESS TO THE ST PAUL’S HOSPITAL CARPARK FROM TUNG LO WAN ROAD WILL BE MAINTAINED.

♦ LINK ROAD BETWEEN CAROLINE HILL ROAD AND HAPPY VIEW TERRACE WILL BE ROUTED ONE-WAY UPHILL. VEHICLES EXITING FROM UPPER SECTION OF BROADWOOD ROAD, HAPPY VIEW TERRACE AND LEIGHTON HILL WILL PROCEED DOWN VIA BROADWOOD ROAD TO WONG NAI CHUNG ROAD.

FIFTEEN MINUTES BEFORE THE END OF THE EVENT, THE FOLLOWING ARRANGEMENT WILL BE IMPLEMENTED:

* CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN STADIUM PATH AND LEIGHTON ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND.

♦ CAROLINE HILL ROAD BETWEEN LEIGHTON ROAD AND COTTON PATH WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC.

♦ LINK ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC EXCEPT FOR ACCESS TO OR FROM PREMISES AT LINK ROAD VIA BROADWOOD ROAD.

ON COMPLETION OF THE EVENT AND AFTER THE MAJORITY OF SPECTATORS HAVE DISPERSED, THESE SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE WITHDRAWN.

ALL CAR PARKING SPACES IN SUN WUT ROAD, STADIUM PATH AND THE UNNAMED SERVICE ROAD AROUND THE STADIUM WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM NOON UNTIL MIDNIGHT.

FROM 10 AM, LEARNER DRIVERS WILL BE BANNED FROM MATHESON STREET, RUSSELL STREET AND SHARP STREET EAST.

ALSO, THEY WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO TURN LEFT FROM PERCIVAL STREET SOUTHBOUND INTO LEIGHTON ROAD EASTBOUND, OR TO ENTER TUNG LO WAN ROAD FROM CAUSEWAY ROAD.

--------0 ---------

/23........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987

- 23 -

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON HONG KONG ISLAND

« » ♦ *

THE FOLLOWING ROAD SECTIONS ON HONG KONG ISLAND WILL BE MADE URBAN CLEARWAYS FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) FOR ROAD WORKS:

» THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF KO SHING STREET IN SHEUNO WAN BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH QUEEN STREET AND HOUSE NO.13 WILL BE DESIGNATED A 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY FOR ABOUT THREE WEEKS;

t A 59-METRE STRETCH ALONG FORT STREET IN NORTH POINT EAST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH CHEUNG HONG STREET WILL ALSO BECOME A 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY FOR ABOUT SIX WEEKS;

♦ THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF JARDINE’S BAZAAR TN CAUSEWAY BAY BETWEEN HOUSE NOS.5 AND 21 AND BETWEEN HOUSE NOS.37 AND 49 WILL BE MADE 7 AM TO 12 MIDNIGHT DAILY URBAN CLEARWAYS FOR ABOUT TWO MONTHS.

NO VEHICLE EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL RE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREAS.

MEANWHILE, EDINBURGH PLACE NORTH BETWEEN STAR FERRY PIER AND HMS TAMAR WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC EXCEPT EMERGENCY VEHICLES AND THOSE REARING OFFICIAL LABELS FROM 1 PM ON THE SAME DAY (SATURDAY) TO 6 PM THE NEXT DAY FOR THE 1987/R8 KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN PARADE.

-----0------

CLOSURE OF CYCLE TRACKS, FOOTPATHS IN SHA TIN » ♦ ♦ t »

TO FACILITATE THE LAUNCH ING OF THE ’’HANDS ACROSS THE RIVER” EVENT ORGANISED BY THE COMMUNITY CHEST OF HONG KONG, THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS OF CYCLE TRACKS AND FOOTPATHS IN SHA TIN WILL BE CLOSED FROM MIDNIGHT ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 14) TO 4 PM THE FOLLOWING DAY:

♦ ALONG BOTH BANKS OF SHING MUN RIVER BETWEEN SAND MARTIN BRIDGE AND BANYAN BRIDGE.

♦ ON BANYAN BRIDGE BETWEEN YUEN WO ROAD AND TAI CHUNG KIU ROAD.

» ON SAND MARTIN BRIDGE BETWEEN YUEN WO ROAD AND TAI CHUNG KIU ROAD.

IN ADDITION, THE EASTBOUND BUS STOP ON TAI CHUNG KIU ROAD OPPOSITE TO RIVERSIDE PLAZA HOTEL, CURRENTLY OBSERVED BY KMB ROUTES NO. 73A, 74A, 82M, 84M, 85A, 89A AND 89C, WILL BE SUSPENDED BETWEEN ID AM AND I PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15). BOTH KCR TRAIN AND KMB BUS SERVICES WILL BE STRENGTHENED AS NECESSARY.

-----0------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

JOINT LIAISON GROUP COMMUNIQUE ............................ 1

FS OFF FOR DEFENCE TALKS .................................. 2

MORE OVERSEAS DIVESTMENT IN MANUFACTURING.................. 2

WEST GERMAN BANK GRANTED LICENCE........................... 5

HELPING TO MAKE A SAFE HCME................................ 5

VARIETY SHOW TO START ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL............ 6

RESIDENTS’ WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS HAVE IMPORTANT ROLE ....... 7

COLOURFUL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN FANCY CAR PARADE............ 7

DB PITCHES IN TO HELP KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN ................ 8

EASTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL BEGINS ON SUNDAY.................... 9

YAU MA TEI MINI OLYMPICS FOR YOUTH ......................... 10

FIRE PREVENTION EXHIBITION IN ABERDEEN .................... 11

SHA TIN FIGHT CRIME GAMES DAY.............................. 11

KWUN TONG DISTRICT RACE ON SUNDAY.......................... 12

IMPROVED SPEEDPOST SERVICE TO THE PHILIPPINES ............. 13

AMENDMENTS TO WAN CHAI SEAFRONT ROAD FOOTBRIDGE............ 13

TENDERERS INVITED TO PRE-QUALIFY........................... 14

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN .ABERDEEN ............. 13

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN HUNG HCM AND MA TAU KOK . 16

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN CAUSEWAY BAY AND WAN CHAI 16

TEMPORARY LANE CLOSURES IN SHA TIN...................... 17

WATER CUT IN WONG TAI SIN.................................. 17

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1987

JOINT LIAISON GROUP COMMUNIQUE *****

FOLLOWING IS THE COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AFTER THE EIGHTH MEETING OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT LIAISON GROUP:-

THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT LIAISON GROUP HELD ITS EIGHTH MEETING IN PEKING ON NOVEMBER 10 TO 13. POSITIVE RESULTS WERE ACHIEVED.

THE TWO SIDES REVIEWED WITH SATISFACTION THE GOOD PROGRESS MADE IN THEIR DISCUSSIONS ON THE DEFENCE OF HONG KONG AND THE MAINTENANCE OF ITS PUBLIC ORDER. THE TWO SIDES AGREED THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT TO THE SMOOTH TRANSFER OF GOVERNMENT IN 1997 AND TO THE MAINTENANCE OF HONG KONG’S STABILITY AND PROSPERITY THAT TIMELY ARRANGEMENTS SHOULD BE MADE IN RELATION TO DEFENCE AND PUBLIC ORDER. THE TWO SIDES AGREED TO CONTINUE THEIR CLOSE CONSULTATION AND CO-OPERATION ON THE RELEVANT PRACTICAL ARRANGEMENTS.

ON THE BASIS OF WORK DONE BY THE STANDING SUB-GROUP ON INTERNATIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS, THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP REACHED AGREEMENT ON THE CONTINUED APPLICATION TO HONG KONG AFTER 1997 OF RELEVANT INTERNATIONAL LABOUR CONVENTIONS AND ON HONG KONG’S CONTINUED PARTICIPATION IN THE ACTIVITIES OF THE INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION. THE TWO SIDES ALSO REACHED AGREEMENT ON THE CONTINUED PARTICPATION OF THE HONG KONG SAR AFTER 1997 IN THE ACTIVITIES OF SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANISATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS IN THE ASIAN-PACIFIC REGION.

THE GROUP DISCUSSED PROGRESS IN CONCLUDING HONG KONG’S AIR SERVICE AGREEMENTS AND REACHED A COMMON UNDERSTANDING ON RELATED MATTERS.

THE GROUP REACHED IDENTITY OF VIEWS ON GENERAL PRINCIPLES RELATING TO THE LOCALISATION OF LEGISLATION. THEY AGREED THAT DETAILS SHOULD BE DISCUSSED AT EXPERT LEVEL.

THE GROUP EX('HANGEI) VIEWS ON IMPROVEMENTS IN THE TERMS OF SERVICE OF THE HONG KONG JUDICIARY.

THE BRITISH SIDE PROVIDED INFORMATION ON THE PROGRESS OF THE POLITICAL REVIEW IN HONG KONG.

THE GROUP EXPRESSED ITS APPRECIATION FOR ALL THE HARD WORK DONE BY EXPERTS ON BOTH SIDES BEFORE AND DURING THE MEETING.

THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP DECIDED THAT ITS NEXT MEETING WOULD TAKE PLACE IN HONG KONG FROM MARCH 8 TO 11 NEXT YEAR.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1987

- 2 -

FS OFF FOR DEFENCE TALKS « « «

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR PIERS JACOBS, LEFT FOR LONDON TONIGHT (FRIDAY) TO LEAD THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT TEAM IN THE THIRD ROUND OF DISCUSSIONS WITH THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE ON A NEW DEFENCE COSTS AGREEMENT.

THE TALKS WILL START ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 18) AND ARE PLANNED TO LAST THREE DAYS.

"IF OUR DISCUSSIONS ARE SUCCESSFUL, THE NEW AGREEMENT WOULD COMB INTO OPERATION ON APRIL 1 NEXT YEAR," MR JACOBS TOLD REPORTERS AT THE AIRPORT BEFORE DEPARTURE.

HE SAID THE EARLIER ROUNDS OF TALKS HAD CLEARED SOME OF THE GROUND, AND THERE WAS NOW A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF BACH OTHER'8 POSITION.

"AT THE END OF THIS ROUND OF TALKS, I HOPE TO BE ABLE TO PRESENT THE BASIS OF A NEW AGREEMENT TO THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL," HE ADDED.

"NATURALLY, THERE ARB STILL A NUMBER OF IMPORTANT ISSUES TO BE RESOLVED, BUT I AM CONFIDENT THAT PROGRESS WILL BE MADE."

OTHER MEMBERS OF THE DELEGATION ARB MR ROBERT UPTON, DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR SECURITY; MR MIKE HANSON, PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECURITY; MR IAN WOTHERSPOON, ASSISTANT FINANCIAL SECRETARY; AND MR JOHN SHANNON, A FINANCE OFFICER OF THE FINANCE BRANCH.

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MORE OVERSEAS INVESTMENT IN MANUFACTURING ♦ » t ♦ ♦

THE YEAR 1986 WAS A GOOD ONE FOR OVERSEAS INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES, ACCORDING TO THE DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR K.Y. YEUNG.

IN THE FOREWORD TO ”1987 SURVEY OF OVERSEAS 1NDUSTRIES", THE DI RECTOR

HIS DEPARTMENT’S NEWLY INVESTMENT IN HONG NOTED THAT AT $19,554

PUBLISHED REPORT

KONG’S MILLION

MANUFACTURING

THE TOTAL CUMULATIVE INCREASE

VALUE OF INVESTMENT AT THE ENI) OF 1986 - DEFINED AS

INVESTMENT AT ORIGINAL COST BEFORE DEPRECIATION - SHOWED AN OF 26 PER CENT OVER 1985. AT $1,603 MILLION, THE NET ACQUIS!1 ION OF FIXED ASSETS IN 19B6 REPRESENTED AN INCREASE OF 55 PER CENT.

/THE REPORT

FRIDAY, NOVIMBER 1J, 1987

THE REPORT CONTAINS THE RESULTS OF A SURVEY CONDUCTED IN 1987 IN RESPECT OF INVESTMENTS IN 1986.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT THAT THE COVERAGE OF ESTABLISHMENTS WITH OVERSEAS INTERESTS WAS PROBABLY NOT COMPLETE, THOUGH EVERY ESTABLISHMENT IN HONG KONG KNOWN OR THOUGHT TO CONTAIN AN OVERSEAS INTEREST WAS CONTACTED IN THE SURVEY.

WHILE 541 FACTORIES WITH AN OVERSEAS INTEREST COMPLETED AND RETURNED THE DEPARTMENT’S QUESTIONNAIRE, 32 ESTABLISHMENTS DID NOT CO-OPERATE IN THE SURVEY AND SOME OF THESE ESTABLISHMENTS MIGHT CONTAIN AN OVERSEAS INTEREST. THE DISCREPANCY, HOWEVER, WAS UNLIKELY TO BE SIGNIFICANT, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

ACCORDING TO THE REPORT, THE UNITED STATES CONTINUED IN ITS POSITION AS THE TOP OVERSEAS INVESTOR IN HONG KONG MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES WITH A CUMULATIVE INVESTMENT OF $8,053 MILLION (41.2 PER CENT OF TOTAL INVESTMENT) IN 163 MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS EMPLOYING 38,276 WORKERS.

JAPAN REMAINED THE SECOND LARGEST FOREIGN INVESTOR WITH $4,009 MILLION (20.5 PER CENT) INVESTED IN 134 MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS EMPLOYING 22,635 WORKERS.

CHINA CAME THIRD WITH ITS STAKE OF $2,981 MILLION (15.2 PER CENT) IN 36 MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS EMPLOYING 7,272 WORKERS.

THE UNITED KINGDOM, IN FOURTH PLACE, ACCOUNTED FOR $1,082 MILLION (5.5 PER CENT) WORTH OF INVESTMENT AND WAS PROVIDING JOBS FOR 13,401 WORKERS IN 55 MANUFACTURI NG ESTABLISHMENTS.

MEASURED BY INCREASES IN THE SIZE OF FIXED ASSETS, THE SURVEY SHOWED THAT THE ELECTRONICS, NON-METALLIC MINERAL PRODUCTS AND TEXTILES AND CLOTHING INDUSTRIES RECORDED THE HIGHEST RATES OF OVERSEAS INVESTMENT.

THE SURVEY ALSO FOUND THAT OF THE 541 ESTABLISHMENTS SURVEYED, 288 WERE WHOLLY OWNED BY OVERSEAS INTERESTS. THE REMAINING 253 ESTABLISHMENTS WERE JOINT VENTURES BETWEEN LOCAL AND OVERSEAS INTERESTS.

"WITH THE PRINCIPAL AIM OF THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT’S INWARD INVESTMENT PROMOTION PROGRAMME TO ENCOURAGE OVERSEAS MANUFACTURERS TO INTRODUCE TO HONG KONG, THROUGH THEIR INVESTMENTS, NEW AND IMPROVED PRODUCTS, DESIGNS, PROCESSES AND MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES, THE 253 ESTABLISHMENTS WITH LOCAL INTERESTS IN A FORM OF CO-OPERATION WILL PROVIDE A GOOD OPPORTUNITY FOR TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER," MR YEUNG SAID.

/THE SURVEY

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1J, 198?

THE SURVEY FOUND THAT EIGHTY-FIVE ESTABLISHMENTS (16 PER CENT) REPORTED PLANS TO INTRODUCE NEW PRODUCTION PROCESSES AND 132 (24 PER CENT) WERE DEVELOPING NEW PRODUCTS IN DIFFERENT INDUSTRIES, INCLUDING SURFACE-MOUNTED COMPONENTS, MlNI-SWITCHES, DIALLING INTEGRATED CIRCUITS FOR TELEPHONES, QUASI-DIGITAL INTEGRATED CIRCUITS FOR COLOUR TELEVISIONS, THREE-DIMENSIONAL CAMERAS, WATCH MOVEMENTS, COIL NAILS, AND TEXTILE FINISHING MATERIALS.

MOST ESTABLISHMENTS WITH AN OVERSEAS INVESTMENT INTEREST ALSO SHOWED A STRONG INTEREST IN PRODUCT AND PROCESS IMPROVEMENT, ENGAGING IN ONE OR MORE FORMS OF SUPPORTING ACTIVITY SUCH AS PRODUCT DESIGN, RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, QUALITY CONTROL, TESTING AND CALIBRATION AND EMPLOYEE TRAINING.

"THESE INVESTMENTS SERVE NOT ONLY TO ENRICH HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING CAPABILITIES BUT ALSO TO STIMULATE LOCAL MANUFACTURERS TO UPGRADE THEIR OWN OPERATIONS," MR YEUNG SAID.

COMPUTERS OR COMPUTER-CONTROLLED MACHINES WERE IN OPERATION TN 330 ESTABLISHMENTS (61 PER CENT), OFTEN WITH TECHNICAL SUPPORT BEING PROVIDED BY THE OVERSEAS INVESTOR.

MOST ESTABLISHMENTS COMMENTED FAVOURABLY ON HONG KONG’S FREE PORT STATUS AND LOW TAX RATE, INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS, BANKING AND FINANCIAL FACILITIES, AND ACCESS TO WORLD MARKETS, AS FACTORS MAKING FOR A FAVOURABLE INVESTMENT ENVIRONMENT. INTERESTINGLY, HONG KONG’S SUPPORTING INDUSTRIES WERE ALSO PRAISED, THOUGH NOT TO THE SAME EXTENT.

AREAS WHICH ATTRACTED UNFAVOURABLE COMMENT WERE BUILDINGS AND MANPOWER. A MAJORITY OF ESTABLISHMENTS INDUSTRIAL LAND TO BE HIGHLY-PRICED, AND A SMALLER NUMBER IT WAS DIFFICULT TO ACQUIRE. THE PRICE AND AVAILABILITY OF

LAND AND CONSIDERED FELT THAT COMMERCIAL

SPACE ATTRACTED SIMILAR CRITICISMS.

ALTHOUGH A LARGE BODY OF OPINION WAS NEUTRAL ON MANPOWER AS A FACTOR AFFECTING HONG KONG’S INVESTMENT ENVIRONMENT, MORE ESTABLISHMENTS FELT IT WAS AN UNFAVOURABLE FACTOR THAN A FAVOURABLE ONE. THE CHIEF CRITICISMS CONCERNED THE SUPPLY OF OPERATIVES, CRAFTSMEN AND TECHNICAL STAFF, THE HIGH COSTS GENERALLY OF LABOUR, AND THE HIGH TURNOVER OF ALL TYPES OF STAFF.

NEVERTHELESS, 504 ESTABLISHMENTS (93 PER CENT) FELT THAT THE INVESTMENT CLIMATE IN HONG KONG WAS FAVOURABLE. TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTEEN ESTABLISHMENTS (40 PER CENT) PLANNED TO EXPAND THE PRODUCTION CAPACITY OF THEIR EXISTING PRODUCTS AND 92 ESTABLISHMENTS (17 PER CENT) INTENDED TO SET UP ADDITIONAL BRANCH FACTORIES OR MOVE INTO

LARGER PREMISES IN HONG KONG.

---0------

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1987

5 -

WEST GERMAN BANK GRANTED LICENCE

* * * *

A WEST GERMAN BANK, BAYERISCHE HYPOTHEKEN- UND WECHSEL-BANK AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT, HAS BEEN GRANTED A BANKING LICENCE TO CONDUCT BUSINESS IN HONG KONG, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).

BAYERISCHE HYPOTHEKEN- UND WECHSEL-BANK AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1835. IT HAS HAD A PRESENCE IN HONG KONG IN THE FORM OF A REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE SINCE 1981.

THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE CONTINUING INTEREST OF FOREIGN BANKS IN OBTAINING HONG KONG BANKING LICENCES REFLECTED HONG KONG'S ROLE AS A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE.

THE GRANTING OF THIS LICENCE BRINGS THE TOTAL NUMBER OF LICENSED BANKS IN HONG KONG TO 155, OF WHICH 120 ARE INCORPORATED OUTSIDE HONG KONG. SIX LICENCES HAVE BEEN GRANTED SO FAR THIS YEAR.

------o-------

HELPING TO MAKE A SAFE HOME

*****

AN EXHIBITION ON HOME SAFETY WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15) AT YAU 01 ESTATE IN TUEN MUN.

THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPEN FROM 10 AM TO 6 PM ON THE PODIUM OF THE SHOPPING ARCADE, AND BOOKLETS CONTAINING USEFUL ADVICE ON HOW TO AVOID COMMON DOMESTIC ACCIDENTS WILL BE GIVEN OUT.

THIS IS THE SEVENTH OF A SERIES OF MOBILE EXHIBITIONS HELD EVERY SUNDAY IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES TO SPREAD THE MESSAGE THAT A SAFE HOME IS A HAPPY HOME.

THE EXHIBITIONS ARE ORGANISED BY THE HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN PUBLICITY COMMITTEE AS PART OF ITS EFFORTS TO AROUSE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF HOME SAFETY.

AS MOST HOME ACCIDENTS RESULT FROM CARELESSNESS AND IGNORANCE, THE COMMITTEE WILL CONTINUE TO MOUNT TERRITORY-WIDE ACTIVITIES TO URGE THE PUBLIC TO PAY MORE ATTENTION TO HOME SAFETY.

TV API’S (ANNOUNCEMENT IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST) ON PARENTAL SUPERVISION, CARING FOR THE ELDERLY AND SAFE USE OF GAS AND ELECTRICITY ARE CURRENTLY USED WITH THE COMMON MESSAGE THAT PRECAUTION IS THE KEY TO A SAFE HOME.

IN ADDITION, THE COMMITTEE IS PLANNING TO PRODUCE EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS IN THE NEXT TWO MONTHS TO COMPLEMENT ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY VOLUNTARY GROUPS. THESE INCLUDE A VISUAL-AID KIT ON HOME SAFETY AND A SPECIAL VIDEO PROGRAMME TAILORED FOR THE ELDERLY.

------o------- /6.................

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1987

VARIETY SHOW TO START ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL

« « « « ft

THE FIRST ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL, WHICH COMPRISES MORE THAN 30 CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES, WILL BEGIN ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 16).

AN OPENING CEREMONY, TO BE FOLLOWED BY A VARIETY SHOW JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE AND RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG, WILL BE HELD AT THE PAK TEI PLAYGROUND ON CHEUNG CHAU AT 2 PM.

AN EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MISS MARIA TAM, WILL BE THE GUEST OF HONOUR AT THE OPENING.

OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM WAI-KEUNO; DISTRICT OFFICER, MR JONATHAN NG; CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MISS LEE WAI-FONG; AND THE HONORARY PRESIDENTS AND VICE PRESIDENTS OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL.

THE VARIETY SHOW, FEATURING POP SINGERS KEN CHOI, ALEX DELFINO, DOMINIC CHOW, PRUDENCE LIEW, LUI SHAN AND LAM MAN-CHUNG, WILL BE LIVE BROADCAST BY RTHK RADIO 1.

ISLAND RESIDENTS AND VISITORS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND THE OPENING CEREMONY AND VARIETY SHOW, AND SHARE IN THE FESTIVE FUN. ADMISSION IS FREE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL OPENING CEREMONY AND VARIETY SHOW WHICH WILL BE HELD AT THE PAK TEI PLAYGROUND, CHEUNG CHAU ON SUNDAY, STARTING AT 2 PM.

A PRESS LAUNCH, THE TIN HAU, WILL LEAVE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER FOR CHEUNG CHAU AT 10 AM. INFORMATION OFFICER, MR RAYMOND TAM, WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

-------0----------

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1987

RESIDENTS’ WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS HAVE IMPORTANT ROLE

* ♦ * * »

WELL ESTABLISHED RESIDENTS’ WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS PROVIDE A FIRM FOUNDATION FOR DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT AND HELP FOSTER COMMUNITY INTEGRATION, THE ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER FOR NORTH DISTRICT, MR TIM MILNES, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE INAUGURATION OF THE LOI TUNG RESIDENTS* WELFARE ASSOCIATION IN SHA TAU KOK, MR MILNES SAID THAT THIS FOUNDATION WAS PARTICULARLY SIGNIFICANT AS THE CONCEPT OF COMMUNITY BUILDING WAS ASSUMING GREATER IMPORTANCE BECAUSE OF THE RAPID DEVELOPMENT IN THE DISTRICT.

WITH REGARD TO THE FUTURE, MR MILNES SAID THAT SUCH ASSOCAITIONS WOULD FACE EVEN GREATER CHALLENGES AND WOULD HAVE MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES ON A WIDER SCALE.

ONE SUCH ACTIVITY WAS THE NORTH DISTRICT FLOWER, BIRD, FISH AND INSECT SHOW TO BE HELD FROM DECEMBER 23 TO 27, MR MILNES SAID.

THE SHOW, THE FIRST OF ITS KIND TO BE HELD IN HONG KONG, WOULD BE OPENED BY LADY WILSON, HE SAID.

MR MILNES ALSO COMMENDED THE ASSOCIATION FOR ITS PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNMENT CAMPAIGNS, SUCH AS FIGHT CRIME, AND FOR ITS WORK FOR THE ELDERLY IN THE PAST NINE YEARS. HE ALSO PRAISED ITS EFFORTS IN SETTING UP A FIRE WATCH TEAM.

------0-------

COLOURFUL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN FANCY CAR PARADE

» » * » ♦

TWENTY-SEVEN ORGANISATIONS, 14 FROM DISTRICT BOARDS AND 13 FROM PRIVATE CORPORATIONS, WILL PARTICIPATE IN THE LARGEST-EVER FANCY CAR PARADE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15).

THE PARADE WILL MARK THE BEGINNING OF THIS YEAR’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN AT DISTRICT LEVEL. FANCY CARS WILL RUN FROM TSUEN WAN SPORTS GROUND TO EDINBURGH PLACE, VIA TEXACO ROAD, KWAI CHUNG ROAD, CHING CHEUNG ROAD, WATERLOO ROAD, PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI EAST, CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL AND GLOUCESTER ROAD.

AT THE STARTING POINT, THERE WILL BE A DRAGON DANCE PRECEDED BY AN EYE-DOTTING CEREMONY AT WHICH AN URBAN COUNCILLOR, DR RONALD LEUNG, WILL OFFICIATE. IT WILL BE ^FOLLOWED BY A SPEECH BY THE CHAIRMAN OF REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG. DR LEUNG AND MR CHEUNG WILL THEN TAKE THE SALUTE AS VEHICLES SET OFF.

/THE CHIEF

FRIDAY, NOVIMBKR 1J, 198?

THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, WILL OFFICIATE AT A BALLOON-FLYING CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT EDINBURGH PLACE. MRS FORD WILL PRESENT PRIZES TO WINNERS OF THE BEST DECORATED VEHICLES CONTEST.

HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY WILL BE AN ONE-HOUR TV VARIETY SHOW CENTERING ON THE PARADE AND KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN MESSAGES. THE PARADE VEHICLES WILL BE DISPLAYED AT EDINBURGH PLACE FROM 2 PM TO 5 PM.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN PARADE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15).

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WISHING TO COVER THE CEREMONY AT TSUEN WAN SPORTS GROUND SHOULD ARRIVE AT THE VENUE AT 8.30 AM.

FOR THE CEREMONY AT EDINBURGH PLACE, THEY SHOULD ARRIVE AT THE VENUE AT 11.30 AM, USING THE ENTRANCE OPPOSITE TO THE MAIN GATE OF TAMAR COMPOUND. THE CHIEF SECRETARY WILL ARRIVE AT 11.45 AM.

TRANSPORT WILL BE PROVIDED TO TAKE MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES FROM TSUEN WAN SPORTS GROUND TO EDINBURGH PLACE. PHOTOGRAPHERS ARE ADVISED TO BRING ALONG TELEPHOTO LENSES.

GIS OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST AT BOTH VENUES.

_ _ 0 - -

DB PITCHES IN TO HELP KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN

*****

THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD WILL SEND A DECORATED BUS ON A PROMOTIONAL TOUR ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15) IN SUPPORT OF THE "KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN" CAMPAIGN.

A DISTRICT BOARD SPOKESMAN SAID $30,000 HAS BEEN SPENT ON DECORATING THE BUS WHICH WILL PLAY A MAJOR ROLE IN PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES PUBLICISING THE IMPORTANCE OF A CLEAN ENVIRONMENT.

BEFORE THE BUS DEPARTS FROM JACKSON ROAD, A CLEANSING DRIVE WILL BEGIN AT CHATER GARDENS AT 2 PM, INVOLVING MORE THAN 200 JUNIOR POLICE CALL MEMBERS.

/the BUS

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1J, 198?

THE BUS WILL THEN HEAD FOR THE SMITHFIELD TEMPORARY PARK IN KENNEDY TOWN VIA QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, QUEEN’S ROAD WEST AND BELCHER’S STREET.

AT MIDLAND CENTRE IN SHEUNO WAN AND AT CHONG YIP CENTRE IN WESTERN, DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS RIDING ON THE BUS WILL DISTRIBUTE TO PASSERS-BY STICKERS BEARING THE "COMPLAINTS AGAINST DIRTY SPOTS” HOTLINE TELEPHONE NUMBER.

AT THE SMITHFIELD TEMPORARY PARK, ANOTHER 100 JPC MEMBERS WILL BEGIN A CLEAN-UP AT 3.30 PM. A ROCK MUSIC SHOW WILL FOLLOW.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES AT 2 PM AND 3.30 PM ON SUNDAY AT CHATER GARDENS AND SMITHFIELD TEMPORARY PARK, RESPECTIVELY.

EASTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL BEGINS ON SUNDAY

*****

A TWO-WEEK EASTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL BE LAUNCHED ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15) AFTERNOON IN VICTORIA PARK, CAUSEWAY BAY.

THE FESTIVAL IS ORGANISED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL, EASTERN DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS ADVANCEMENT ASSOCIATION AND THE DISTRICT OFFICE, AND IS SPONSORED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD AND THE URBAN COUNCIL.

IT WILL FEATURE MORE THAN 30 MAJOR CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL EVENTS, COSTING A TOTAL OF ABOUT $1.3 MILLION.

TO HIGHLIGHT THE THEME "PARTICIPATE IN YOUR DISTRICT’S DEVELOPMENT", THE FESTIVAL'S ORGANISING COMMITTEE HAS PRODUCED A VIDEO ON THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF THE DISTRICT FOR SCREENING ON A HUGE VIDEO WALL AT DIFFERENT VENUES.

THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR T.H. CHAU, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE FESTIVAL AT 2.30 PM ON SUNDAY IN VICTORIA PARK. HE WILL ALSO ATTEND A SWITCH-ON CEREMONY FOR THE VIDEO SHOW.

/THE FIRST

FRIDAY, N0VB1BER 1J, 1987

10 -

THE FIRST EVENT OF THE DISTRICT CARNIVAL AFTER THE OPENING CEREMONY.

THE PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE GOLDEN GAMESTALLS, AN ALL-STAR SHOW, EXHIBITION SPORTS COMPETITIONS. ADMISSION IS FREE.

FESTIVAL WILL BE A GRAND

DRAGON AND UNICORN DANCES, ON DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT AND

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EASTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL OPENING CEREMONY AND CARNIVAL WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15) AT VICTORIA PARK.

------0--------

YAU MA TEI MINI OLYMPICS FOR YOUTH

*****

A MINI OLYMPICS, ORGANISED BY THE YAU MA TEI DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE TO DRIVE HOME FIGHT CRIME MESSAGES, WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE LUTHERAN MIDDLE SCHOOL IN WATERLOO ROAD.

SIX TEAMS, COMPRISING ABOUT 100 PEOPLE AGED BETWEEN NINE AND 14, WILL COMPETE IN FIVE ROUNDS OF FIGHT-CRIME GAMES.

"THE EVENT IS TO AROUSE YOUNG PEOPLE’S AWARENESS OF CRIME PREVENTION AND THE GAMES WILL HELP FOSTER THEIR CO-OPERATION AND SENSE OF DISCIPLINE," A COMMITTEE SPOKESMAN SAID.

OTHER ACTIVITIES PLANNED BY THE COMMITTEE INCLUDE A SINGING CONTEST WITH ANTI-TRIAD MESSAGES, ERECTION OF ANTI-PICKPOCKETING SIGNBOARDS AND AN ANTI-NARCOTICS CAMPAIGN.

OFFICIATING AT THE PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY AFTER THE MINI OLYMPICS WILL BF. YAU MA TEI ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MISS MARY CHOW.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MINI-OLYMPICS, TO START AT 2 PM AT THE LUTHERAN MIDDLE SCHOOL AT 52 WATERLOO ROAD, AND THE PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT 4.30 PM.

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 19R7

11 FIRE PREVENTION EXHIBITION IN ABERDEEN * t t t *

THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF FIRE PREVENTION EXHIBITIONS WILL BE HELD AT THE ABERDEEN CENTRE THIS SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15) FROM 12 NOON TO 3 PM.

BETWEEN NOW AND THE END OF FEBRUARY, EIGHT EXHIBITIONS WILL BE HELD BI-WEEKLY IN VARIOUS DENSELY POPULATED AREAS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.

’’THE PURPOSE OF THESE EXHIBITIONS IS TO REMIND THE PUBLIC OF THE CONSTANT NEED FOR FIRE PREVENTION, ESPECIALLY DURING THE DRY WINTER MONTHS,” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN PUBLICITY WORKING GROUP SAID.

’’THERE WILL BE EDUCATIONAL PANELS ON DISPLAY, ADVISING THE PUBLIC HOW TO PREVENT OUTBREAKS OF FIRE IN THE COUNTRYSIDE AND IN THE URBAN AREAS."

ONE OF THE TOPICS TO BE EMPHASISED AT THE EXHIBITIONS WILL BE "FIRE LAWS PROTECT”, EXPLAINING TO THE PUBLIC THE IMPORTANCE OF OBSERVING FIRE REGULATIONS IN ORDER TO REDUCE FIRE HAZARDS.

VISITORS WILL RECEIVE INFORMATION LEAFLETS ON FIRE PREVENTION AND GIVEAWAY ITEMS SPONSORED BY KWONG ON BANK.

THE NEXT EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 29 AT CITY PLAZA, TAI KOO SHING.

------0-------

SHA TIN FIGHT CRIME GAMES DAY

♦ * ♦ ♦ e

SHA TIN RESIDENTS WILL BE TREATED TO PERFORMANCES BY A POLICE PIPE BAND AS WELL AS EXCITING GAMES INVOLVING 12 TEAMS FORMED BY LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AT A GAMES DAY ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15). POLICE DOGS WILL ALSO SHOW THEIR PROWESS.

THE SHA TIN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME GAMES DAY, ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT’S FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, WILL BEGIN AT 1.45 PM AT THE SHA TIN SPORTS GROUND IN YUEN WO ROAD.

THE 12 TEAMS TAKING PART IN THE GAMES MATCH WILL REPRESENT THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD, RURAL COMMITTEE, SPORTS AND ARTS ASSOCIATIONS, YIN NGAI SOCIETY, POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS BRANCH, AS WELL AS AREA COMMITTEES OF YUEN WO, TSANG TAI UK, SHA KOK, TIN SUM, SHING MUN EAST AND ('HE KUNG TEMPLE.

/OFFICIATING GUBSTS

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1Jt 1937

OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR DAVID JEAFFRESON; SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR VICTOR YUNG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR NG CHAN-LAM; AND POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR JOHN GREENE.

NOTE TO ETTORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE SHA TIN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME GAMES DAY TO BE HELD AT THE SHA TIN SPORTS GROUND ON YUEN WO ROAD ON SUNDAY, STARTING AT 1.45 PM.

KWUN TONG DISTRICT RACE ON SUNDAY t * ♦ t t

SOME 200 KWUN TONG RESIDENTS WILL TAKE PART IN A ROUND-THE-DISTRICT RACE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15).

THE COMPETITION IS DIVIDED INTO SECTIONS FOR MEN AND WOMEN. ROUTES FOR BOTH SECTIONS ARE IDENTICAL. PARTICIPANTS WILL START FROM SAU NGA ROAD PLAYGROUND, AND RUN VIA HIP WO STREET, SAU MAU PING ROAD AND HIU KWONG STREET BEFORE RETURNING TO THE STARTING POINT, COVERING A DISTANCE OF 2,000 METRES.

MALE PARTICIPANTS ARE REQUIRED TO RUN TWO LAPS WHILE THE WOMEN WILL HAVE TO COMPLETE ONLY ONE LAI’ TO FINISH THE RACE.

THE EVENT IS A HIGHLIGHT OF THE SPORTS FESTIVAL CURRENTLY HELD BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD, DISTRICT OFFICE, URBAN COUNCIL AND THE KWUN TONG SPORTS PROMOTION ASSOCIATION.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE RACE WHICH WILL START AT 9.30 AM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 15) AT THE SAU NGA ROAD PLAYGROUND.

0 - -

/15

FRI DAV, NOVEMBER 13. I 987

- 15 -

IMPROVED SPEEDPOST SERVICE TO THE PHILIPPINES ♦ * * * ♦

SPEEDPOST SERVICE TO THE PHILIPPINES WILL BE EXTENDED TO EIGHT MORE TOWNS FROM MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16), THE POST OFFICE ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY).

THEY ARE MARIKINA, LAS PINAS, TAGUIG, PATEROS AND VALENZUELA.

MUNTINLUPA, MALABON, NAVOTAS,

THE SERVICE WILL THEN BE AVAILABLE TO FOUR CITIES - CALOOCAN, MANILA, PASAY AND QUEZON - AND 13 TOWNS - LAS PINAS, MAKATI, MALABON, MANDALUYONG, MARIKINA, MUNTINLUPA, NAVOTAS, PARANAQUE, PASIG, PATEROS, SAN JUAN, TAGUIG, VALENZUELA - IN THE COUNTRY.

ON THE SAME DAY, THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT FOR A SPEEDPOST ITEM TO THE PHILIPPINES WILL BE INCREASED TO 15 KILOGRAMS AND THE MAXIMUM SIZF EXTENDED TO 1.05 METRES IN LENGTH AND 2 METRES FOR THE LENGTH AND GIRTH COMBINED.

CUSTOMERS REQUIRING MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SERVICE CAN CONTACT THE POSTAL SERVICES REPRESENTATIVES ON 5-8471108.

-----0------

AMENDMENTS TO WAN CHAI SEAFRONT ROAD FOOTBRIDGE

*****

THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSES TO IMPLEMENT THE MODIFICATION OF THE DESIGN OF THE WAN CHAI SEAFRONT ROAD FOOTBRIDGE TO PROVIDE COMPATIBILITY WITH THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE NOW BEING CONSTRUCTED.

THE MODIFICATION INVOLVES THE CONSTRUCTION OF A STRAIGHT STEPPED RAMP LEADING FROM THE SEAFRONT ROAD FOOTBRIDGE TO THE ROOF GARDEN TO THE WEST OF THE HONG KONG COVENT I ON AND EXHIBITION CENTRE IN PLACE OF THE ORIGINALLY DESIGNED SPIRAL STEPPED RAMP.

IT ALSO INVOLVES A CHANGE TO THE CONSTRUCTION DETAIL OF THE ROOF AND DECK OF THE FOOTBRIDGE TO PROVIDE A RECTANGULAR CROSS SECTION.

A NOTICE ON THE PROPOSED WORKS WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRI DAY) .

A PLAN SHOWING THE WORKS (’AN BE SEEN AT THE CENTRAL ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, MAIN ENTRANCE LOBBY, CENTRAL (GOVERNMENT OFFICES, WEST WING, HONG KONG; AT I’HE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, HONG KONG NORTH, I2TH FLOOR, HARBOUR CENTRE, HARBOUR ROAD; AND AT I’HE WAN (HAI DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, TUNG WAH MANSION, 201 HENNESSY ROAD.

ANY OBJECTIONS SHOULD BE MADE IN WRITING TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT AT CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG, BEFORE JANUARY 12, NEXT YEAR.

- 0 - -

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1987

TENDERERS INVITED TO PRE-QUALIFY

« « t » t

CONTRACTORS ARE BEING INVITED TO APPLY FOR INCLUSION ON TWO LISTS OF PRE-QUALIFIED TENDERERS FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE CHAI WAN COMPOSTING PLANT INTO A REFUSE TRANSFER STATION AND THE PROVISION OF ACOUSTIC ENCLOSURES FOR THE SHA TIN SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS.

THE CONVERSION PROJECT, TO BE SUPERVISED BY THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, INCLUDES THE DESIGN, SUPPLY, INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING OF A REFUSE COMPACTION SYSTEM COMPRISING TWO COMPACTORS, CONTAINERS, CONVEYOR SYSTEMS AND THE ASSOCIATED ELECTRICAL, MECHANICAL AND CIVIL WORKS.

PART OF THE EXISTING PLANT EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING AT THE COMPOSTING PLANT WILL BE REMOVED AND MODIFIED TO FACILITATE THE INSTALLATION OF THE NEW EQUIPMENT.

DETAILS FOR THE PREQUALIFICATION EXERCISE WERE PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).

COPIES OF A BRIEF SPECIFICATION OF THE WORK AND DRAWINGS ARE OBTAINABLE FROM THE CONTRACTS SECTION OF THE DEPARTMENT ON THE EIGHTH FLOOR OF 98, CAROLINE HILL ROAD, CAUSEWAY BAY, HONG KONG.

PROPOSALS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED BY NOON ON DECEMBER 11.

THE PROVISION AND INSTALLATION OF ACOUSTIC ENCLOSURES FOR THE SHA TIN SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS WILL BE SUPERVISED BY WATSON HAWKSLEY ASIA CONSULTING ENGINEERS ON BEHALF OF THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT.

THE WORK COMPRISES THE DESIGN, SUPPLY, INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING OF TWO DEMOUNTABLE ACOUSTIC ENCLOSURE SETS, ALL ASSOCIATED ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT FOR ACOUSTIC ISOLATION OF THE OPERATING POWER GENERATOR SETS AND AIR COMPRESSOR SETS IN THE POWER HOUSE OF THE SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS.

APPLICATIONS FOR PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS CAN BE MADE TO WATSON HAWKSLEY ASIA, ROOM 1516, PARK-IN COMMERCIAL CENTRE, DUNDAS STREET, KOWLOON.

COMPLETED DOCUMENTS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED BY NOON ON NOVEMBER 27.

TENDERS FOR THE TWO PROJECTS WILL BE INVITED EARLY NEXT YEAR.

-------0----------

/15

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1987

- 15 -

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN ABERDEEN » ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN ABERDEEN FOR ABOUT THREE MONTHS FOR THE RECONSTRUCTION OF LOK YEUNG STREET FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16).

VEHICLES EXCEEDING SEVEN METRES LONG WILL BE BANNED FROM TURNING RIGHT FROM LOK YEUNG STREET INTO TUNG SING ROAD. THESE VEHICLES WILL ALSO NOT BE ALLOWED TO TURN LEFT FROM ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD INTO LOK YEUNG STREET.

A 23-METRE SECTION OF CHENGTU ROAD NORTH OF ITS JUNCTION WITH LOK YEUNG STREET WILL BE DESIGNATED A 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY RESTRICTED ZONE.

AT THE SAME TIME, THE FOLLOWING ROAD SECTIONS WILL ALSO BE DESIGNATED DAILY RESTRICTED ZONES ROUND THE CLOCK:

♦ A 25-METRE SECTION OF LOK YEUNG STREET EAST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH TUNG SING ROAD;

♦ A FIVE-METRE STRETCH ALONG TUNG SING ROAD SOUTH OF ITS JUNCTION WITH LOK YEUNG STREET; AND

♦ CHENGTU ROAD BETWEEN WU PAK STREET AND WU NAM STREET.

NO VEHICLE EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREAS.

MEANWHILE, THE FOLLOWING (MB BUS ROUTES WILL BE DIVERTED:

♦ ROUTE NOS. 70, 70M, 72, 9B AND 107 WILL BE DIVERTED VIA ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD AND CHENGTU ROAD;

♦ ROUTE NO. 7 WILL TRAVEL VIA ABERDEEN RESERVOIR ROAD AND

ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD. THE EXISTING BUS STOP ON LOK YEUNG

STREET WILL BE RELOCATED TO ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD; AND

* ROUTE NO. 77 WILL TRAVEL ALONG CHENGTU ROAD, WU NAM STREET,

TUNG SING ROAD AND ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD, AND THE EXISTING BUS

TERMINUS AT ABERDEEN BUS TERMINUS WILL BE RELOCATED TO CHENGTU ROAD.

IN ADDITION, THE PLB STAND ON TUNG SING ROAD WILL BE RESITID THREE METRES SOUTHWARD.

-------0---------

/16........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1987

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN HUNG HOM AND MA TAU KOK *****

, BETWEEN 11 PM AND 6 AM THE NEXT MORNING FROM MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16) TO FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 20), THE SECTION OF FAT KWONG STREET EASTBOUND BETWEEN WO CHUNG STREET AND MA TAU WAI ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC TO FACILITATE WORKS ON THE MA TAU WAI ROAD FLYOVER.

DURING THE ABOVE PERIODS OF ROAD CLOSURE, GENERAL TRAFFIC AND KMB ROUTES 41 AND 45 IN FAT KWONG STREET EASTBOUND HEADING FOR MA TAU WAI ROAD WILL BE DIVERTED TO WO CHUNG STREET, CHATHAM ROAD NORTH, WUHU STREET AND MA TAU WAI ROAD.

KMB ROUTES 7B AND 8 ON JOURNEYS TO HUNG HOM FERRY AND TSIM SHA TSUI RESPECTIVELY WILL BE DIVERTED VIA WO CHUNG STREET, CHATHAM ROAD NORTH, WUHU STREET, DOCK STREET AND BULKELEY STREET TO REJOIN MING ON STREET.

MEANWHILE, THE ALLEY AT THE BACK OF HOUSE NO. 1 IN YUK YAT STREET WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16) FOR ABOUT ONE WEEK TO FACILITATE TRENCH WORK.

- - 0 - -

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN CAUSEWAY BAY AND WAN (HAI

*****

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED ON HONG KONG ISLAND FROM IO AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16) FOR ROAD WORKS.

THE WESTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF PENNINGTON STREET IN CAUSEWAY BAY-BETWEEN JARDINE’S BAZAAR AND YEE WO STREET WILL BE DESIGNATED A 24-HOUR DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY FOR ABOUT ONE WEEK.

NO VEHICLE OTHER THAN FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO SIOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.

AT THE SAME TIME, NO VEHICLE OR COMBINATIONS OF VEHICLES OVER 4.6 METRES LONG WILL BE ALLOWED TO ENTER SHARP STREET WEST IN WAN CHAI BETWEEN BOWRINGTON ROAD AND CANAL ROAD WEST FOR THREE WEEKS.

/17

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1987

- 17 -

TEMPORARY LANE CLOSURES IN SHA TIN

* » «

BETWEEN 0.01 AM AND 6 AM ON MONDAY AND TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 18 A? D 17), THE FAST LANE OF SHA TIN ROAD SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN FO TAN NULL, ? AND PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC.

DURING THE SAME PERIOD ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 18), THE 3LCW LANE OF SHA TIN ROAD SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN FO TAN NULLAH AND PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL WILL BE CLOSED.

THE TEMPORARY LANE CLOSURES ARE IMPLEMENTED TO FACILITATE ROAD MAINTENANCE.

-----0------

WATER CUT IN WONG TAI SIN ♦ ♦ » ♦ ♦

SALT WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN WONG TAI SIN WILL BE TURNED OFF ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16) FROM 10 AM TO 6 PM SO THAT WATER MAINS WORK CAN BE CARRIED OUT.

Till' SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT WONG TAI SIN, CHUK YUEN ALL) FUNG WONG VILLAGE.

- - 0 - -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

GOVERNOR ENCOURAGES MORE BOYS TO JOIN SCOUTS ............... 1

UNEMPLOYMENT, UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS FOR JULY -

SEPTEMBER RELEASED •••••••••••••••*•••••**•*••••••••••••• 2

PRAISE FOR HK'S STEPS aGAINST SMOKING ...................... 3

PAVING THE WAY FOR INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION ................... 5

•KNOW GENETICS' EXHIBITION IN TSIM SHA TSUI ................ 6

MAJOR COUNTRY PARK SURVEY BEGINS ........................... 7

YOUTH URGED TO UPHOLD RESPECT FOR THE ELDERLY .............. 8

MUSICIAN ARRIVES FOR MUSIC OFFICE CELEBRATIONS ............. 9

GOVERNOR TO VISIT EASTERN DISTRICT ........................ 10

TAI PO BEGINS 'KEEP CLEAN' CAMPAIGN ....................... 11

SINGING, DANCING COMPETITIONS TO DISCOVER TALENTS ......... 1?

CLEAN HK AND HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN ......................... 1J

SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS SOLD BY aUCTION ....................... 13

DEBATE FOR CENTRAL AND WESTERN STUDENTS ................... 14

MONG KOK GOOD CITIZENS TO GET AWARDS ...................... 15

SOUTHERN DISTRICT ANTI-TRIAD SOCCER COMPETITION ........... 15

TELEMATCH FUN FOR WORKERS ................................. 16

TUEN MUN SEMINAR ON SAFETY OF ELECTRICITY ................. 16

TOLO HIGHWAY SPEED LIMIT ON COMMITTEE AGENDA .............. 17

SHA TIN DB TO DISCUSS MAC OFFICE ACCOMMODATION............. 17

DISTANCE LEARNING FOR MANAGERS TO BEGIN ................... 18

NEW TILTING TEST PLATFORM FOR TRI-AXLE BUSES .............. 19

TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN KWUN TONG ......................... 19

TRAFFIC CHANGES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES..................... 20

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14,

1987

GOVERNOR ENCOURAGES MORE BOYS TO JOIN SCOUTS

» » » « »

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, TODAY (SATURDAY) ENCOURAGED MORE YOUNG PEOPLE TO JOIN THE SCOUT MOVEMENT IN ORDER TO TAKE AN ACTIVE PART IN COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES AND TO MAKE WORTHWHILE CONTRIBUTIONS TO HONG KONG.

SPEAKING AT THE ANNUAL SCOUT RALLY AT THE HONG KONO STADIUM, SIR DAVID SAID THE SCOUT MOVEMENT MADE PEOPLE MORE AWARE OF THE COMMUNITY AND HELPED THEM BUILD A BETTER HONG KONG.

HE SAID THE SCOUT MOVEMENT, BFING ONE OF THE OLDEST AND BEST ESTABLISHED YOUTH ORGANISATIONS IN HONG KONG, HAD ALWAYS ADAPTED TO THE CHANGING NEEDS AND HOPES OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY.

"SCOUTING IS FUN. IT ADDS AN EXCITING NEW DIMENSION TO THE SORT OF EDUCATION PROVIDED AT SCHOOL," SIR DAVID SAID.

"LAST YEAR WAS THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF HONG KONG SCOUTING. THE GRAND FINALE OF THOSE CELEBRATIONS, THE HONG KONG DIAMOND JUBILEE JAMBOREE, WAS THE BIGGEST JAMBOREE EVER HELD IN THE HISTORY OF HONG KONG SCOUTING," HE NOTED.

SIR DAVID SAID THE JAMBOREE PROVIDED A MARVELLOUS OPPORTUNITY FOR SCOUTS, BOTH LOCAL AND FROM OVERSEAS, TO MAKE FRIENDS, AND IT ALSO GAVE OTHER LOCAL YOUTH GROUPS AND THE PUBLIC A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE MOVEMENT.

THIS YEAR, SIR DAVID SAID, SCOUTS WOULD BE CARRYING OUT A SERIES OF TRAINING PROGRAMMES AIMED AT PROVIDING BETTER SCOUTING FOR MORE BOYS AND TO HELP BUILD A BETTER COMMUNITY.

"THOSE TAKING PART WILL NOT ONLY BE LEARNING BASIC SCOUTING SKILLS; THEY WILL ALSO BE TAKING PART IN COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS ORGANISED BY THE SCOUT ASSOCIATION ITSELF OR OTHER ORGANISATIONS," HE SAID.

"THESE WILL INCLUDE THE CAMP FOR THE ELDERLY; FOR CHILDREN; AND THE CLEAN HONG KONG CAMPAIGN."

THE SCOUT FUN DAY

FINALLY, SIR DAVID QUOTED THE MAXIM THAT "ONE MORE SCOUT MEANS ONE MORE GOOD CITIZEN", AND CONGRATULATED ALL SCOUTS ON THEIR TURNOUT.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

- 2 -

UNEMPLOYMENT, UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS FOR JULY - SEPTEMBER RELEASED « « * * *

IN THE THREE MONTHS JULY - SEPTEMBER 1987, BOTH THE UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATES REMAINED STABLE AT A LOW LEVEL, COMPARED WITH THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JUNE 1987, ACCORDING TO THE LATEST LABOUR FORCE STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (SATURDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.

THESE FIGURES INDICATE THAT DURING THE THIRD QUARTER THE LABOUR MARKET CONDITIONS HAVE REMAINED TIGHT, WITH THE LOCAL WORKFORCE FULLY EMPLOYED.

THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR JULY - SEPTEMBER 1987 WAS 1.8 PER CENT, WHICH WAS THE SAME AS THAT FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JUNE 1987. THE RATE FOR THE SAME PERIOD A YEAR EARLIER WAS 2.8 PER CENT. THE DECREASE OF 1.0 PERCENTAGE POINT BELOW THE SAME PERIOD A YEAR EARLIER IS STATISTICALLY SIGNIFICANT.

THE NUMBER OF UNEMPLOYED PERSONS IN JULY - SEPTEMBER 1987 WAS ESTIMATED AT 49,900, COMPARED WITH 47,800 FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JUNE 1987; AND 75,000 FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING SEPTEMBER 1986.

THE UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE FOR JULY - SEPTEMBER 1987 WAS 1.0 PER CENT WHICH COMPARES WITH 1.1 PER CENT FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JUNE 1987. THE RATE FOR JULY - SEPTEMBER 1986 WAS 1.3 PER CENT. THE DECREASE OF 0.1 PERCENTAGE POINT BELOW THE PREVIOUS THREE MONTH PERIOD IS STATISTICALLY NOT SIGNIFICANT, WHILE THE DECREASE OF 0.3 PERCENTAGE POINT BELOW THE SAME PERIOD A YEAR EARLIER IS STATISTICALLY SIGNIFICANT.

THE ESTIMATED NUMBER OF UNDEREMPLOYED PERSONS FOR JULY -SEPTEMBER 1987 WAS 26,800, COMPARED WITH 29,500 FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JUNE 1987 AND 36,600 FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING SEPTEMBER 1986.

CONSISTENT WITH THE CURRENT RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION (ILO), PERSONS WHO WORKED LESS THAN 35 HOURS A WEEK DUE TO ECONOMIC REASONS (SUCH AS SLACK WORK, MATERIAL SHORTAGE, MECHANICAL BREAKDOWN AND INABILITY TO FIND FULL-TIME WORK) WERE REGARDED AS UNDEREMPLOYED ONLY IF THEY WERE EITHER SEEKING OR AVAILABLE FOR MORE WORK.

COMMENTING ON THESE FIGURES, THE COMMISSIONER FOR CENSUS AND STATISTICS SAID THAT BECAUSE THE PROPORTION OF FIRST-TIME JOB-SEEKERS (E.G. PEOPLE WHO HAVE JUST LEFT SCHOOL) VARIES FROM MONTH TO MONTH, UNEMPLOYMENT RATES THAT HAD BEEN SEASONALLY ADJUSTED TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF THE VARIATIONS IN THE NUMBER OF FIRST-TIME JOB-SEEKERS SHOULD BE USED IN MAKING COMPARISONS OVER TIME.

/THE CCMMISSIONER

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

THE COMMISSIONER ADDED THAT, BASED ON A SYSTEM OF MANUAL EXTRACTION OF INFORMATION FROM SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRES FOR THE LATEST MONTH, PROVISIONAL UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATES COVERING THE LATEST THREE MONTH PERIOD COULD BE MADE AVAILABLE WITHIN TWO WEEKS AFTER THE SURVEY. THESE PROVIDE AN EARLY INDICATION OF THE LATEST TREND IN THE UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATES. BOTH RATES APPARENTLY REMAINED AT A VERY LOW LEVEL.

THE PROVISIONAL UNEMPLOYMENT RATE, SEASONALLY ADJUSTED, FOR AUGUST - OCTOBER 1987 WAS 1.9 PER CENT AND THE PROVISIONAL UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE WAS 1.0 PER CENT.

THE UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS WERE OBTAINED FROM A CONTINUOUS GENERAL HOUSEHOLD SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT. THIS SURVEY COVERS A QUARTERLY SAMPLE OF SOME 14,000 HOUSEHOLDS OR 50,000 PERSONS, SELECTED SCIENTIFICALLY TO REPRESENT THE LAND-BASED CIVILIAN NON-INSTITUTIONAL POPULATION IN HONG KONG.

PERSONAL AND LABOUR FORCE DATA WERE OBTAINED IN THE SURVEY BY INTERVIEWING EACH INDIVIDUAL MEMBER AGED 15 AND ABOVE IN THE HOUSEHOLDS SAMPLED.

IN THE SURVEY, THE DEFINITIONS USED IN MEASURING UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT FOLLOW CLOSELY THOSE RECOMMENDED BY THE ILO.

DETAILED ANALYSIS OF LABOUR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS IS GIVEN IN THE REPORT ON THE GENERAL HOUSEHOLD SURVEY WHICH IS PUBLISHED FOUR TIMES A YEAR. THE NEXT REPORT COVERING THE QUARTER ENDING SEPTEMBER 1987 SHOULD BE AVAILABLE FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AROUND DECEMBER 20 AT $9.50 PER COPY.

- - 0 - -

PRAISE FOR HK’S STEPS AGAINST SMOKING

» « » * t

THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT’S SMOKING CONTROL STRATEGIES WERE CONSIDERED BY OVERSEAS DELEGATES AS A "SHINING EXAMPLE" IN THE SMOKING CONTROL MOVEMENT, ACCORDING TO THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MISS ELAINE CHUNG, WHO HAS JUST RETURNED FROM THE SIXTH WORLD CONFERENCE ON SMOKING AND HEALTH IN TOKYO.

IN HER PRESENTATION TO THE WORLD CONFERENCE, ENTITLED "SMOKING CONTROL IN HONG KONG", MISS CHUNG DESCRIBED THE WIDE RANGE OF MEASURES ADOPTED BY GOVERNMENT SINCE 1981 AGAINST TOBACCO USE. SHE ALSO EXPLAINED THE RATIONALE BEHIND EACH MEASURE.

/BETWEEN 1982

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

BETWEEN 1982 AND 1986, THE NUMBER OF DAILY SMOKERS IN HONG KONG DECLINED BY 20 PER CENT. THIS REPRESENTED THE FASTEST DECLINE OF SMOKERS IN THE WORLD.

"BECAUSE OF THE STRONG EVIDENCE LINKING SMOKING WITH MORTALITY AND MORBIDITY," MISS CHUNG SAID THAT GOVERNMENT TOOK "FIRM AND RESOLUTE" ACTION WHEN APPROPRIATE WITH THE AIM OF SAFEGUARDING THE HEALTH OF ITS RESIDENTS.

MISS CHUNG SAID THE AIM OF ENCOURAGING THE POPULATION NOT TO SMOKE WAS ACHIEVED BY EDUCATION, LEGISLATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE MEANS.

IN HER REVIEW, HONG KONG WAS SHOWN TO BE AMONG THE FEW PLACES IN ASIA WHERE:

(A) HEALTH WARNINGS ARE REQUIRED ON CIGARETTE PACKAGES AND ADVERTISEMENTS;

(B) "NO SMOKING" AREAS ARE DESIGNATED ON MANY MEANS OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT;

(D) GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS ARE ADVISED NOT TO SMOKE IN PUBLIC APPEARANCES.

MISS CHUNG SAID THAT ANOTHER ASPECT OF WHICH HONG KONG WAS "JUSTIFIABLY PROUD" WAS BEING THE FIRST ASIAN AREA TO BAN SMOKELESS TOBACCO IN JANUARY 1987. THIS ACTION WAS COMMENDED BY THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION AND THE DELEGATES TO THE SIXTH WORLD CONFERENCE AS BEING COURAGEOUS AND A STEP TO BE EMULATED.

THE ISSUE OF SMOKELESS TOBACCO RECEIVED SIGNIFICANT COVERAGE AT THE WORLD CONFERENCE BECAUSE OF THE SERIOUS HEALTH HAZARDS THAT THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION ASSOCIATED WITH THIS NEW FORM OF TOBACCO.

THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION IN OCTOBER TO SET UP A STATUTORY AND GOVERNMENT-SUBVENTED COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH ALSO RECEIVED MUCH ATTENTION AT THE WORLD CONFERENCE.

THIS APPROACH WAS CONSIDERED SUPERIOR IN MANY WAYS TO ARRANGEMENTS ELSEWHERE IN THE WORLD. THE AREAS WHICH WOULD BE EXAMINED BY THE NEW COUNCIL WOULD INCLUDE MORE EFFECTIVE PUBLIC EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY, THE ISSUES OF OUTDOOR ADVERTISEMENTS, ENFORCEMENT OF LEGISLATION AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT.

THE SIXTH WORLD NOVEMBER 9 BY JAPAN’S FUJIMOTO, (JAPAN) AND HEALTH ORGANISATION.

CONFERENCE ON SMOKING AND HEALTH WAS OPENED ON MINISTER OF HEALTH AND WELFARE, MR TAKAO DR HALFDAN MAHLER, DIRECTOR GENERAL, WORLD

/OVER 700 .......

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

- 5

OVER 700 DELEGATES FROM 56 COUNTRIES PARTICIPATED IN THE FOUR DAY CONFERENCE WHICH ENDED ON NOVEMBER 12.

VIEWS WERE EXCHANGED ON TOPICS SUCH AS SMOKING CESSATION, SMOKING AND ECONOMICS, PASSIVE SMOKING, SMOKING AND WOMEN, SMOKING AND CHILDREN, SMOKLESS TOBACCO, SMOKING CONTROL LEGISLATION AND SMOKING CONTROL MEDIA STRATEGIES.

-------0 ---------

PAVING THE WAY FOR INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION

*****

THE MAIN OBSTACLE TO THE WIDER APPLICATION OF INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION IN HONG KONG CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO THE FACT THAT MANAGEMENT ATTITUDES HAVE NOT YET BEEN FULLY ATTUNED TOWARDS IT, THE DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR K.Y. YEUNG, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).

HE WAS SPEAKING AT A SYMPOSIUM ORGANISED BY THE INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERS AND THE SOCIETY OF MANUFACTURING ENGINEERS.

MR YEUNG SAID THAT FOR A MANUFACTURER WHOSE OPERATIONS WERE RELATIVELY LABOUR INTENSIVE, AND WHO NOW FACED HEAVY PRESSURE IN TERMS OF RISING WAGES AND OTHER COSTS, INEFFICIENT OUTPUT, SUBSTANTIAL WASTE AND INCONSISTENT QUALITY, THE QUESTION HE HAD TO RESOLVE WAS WHETHER HE SHOULD OPT OUT OF THE HONG KONG ENVIRONMENT BY GOING ELSEWHERE, OR WHETHER HE SHOULD CREATE AN AUTOMATION POLICY WITHIN HIS ENTERPRISE.

"EVEN IF HE DOES NOT OPT OUT ENTIRELY, THE MANUFACTURER WOULD STILL HAVE TO CONSIDER HOW OUTPUT MIGHT BE INCREASED, PAYROLL AND WASTAGE REDUCED AND PRODUCTION SPEEDED UP, AND HOW THESE OBJECTIVES MIGHT BE ACHIEVED THROUGH QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND INTEGRATED AUTOMATION SYSTEM," HE SAID.

MR YEUNG SAID THAT WHILE HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURERS WERE WELL KNOWN FOR THEIR ABILITY TO RESPOND QUICKLY TO CHANGES IN THE PATTERN AND LEVEL OF EXTERNAL DEMAND FOR THEIR OUTPUT, AND AT INVESTING IN NEW PRODUCTION CAPACITY WHEN EXPORT PROSPECTS WERE FAVOURABLE, RELATIVELY FEW HAD BEEN WILLING TO INTRODUCE THOSE MANAGEMENT AND TECHNICAL SYSTEMS WHICH MADE FOR MEDIUM TO LONG TERM PRODUCTIVITY GROWTH AND QUALITY IMPROVEMENT.

"WHERE THAT WILLINGNESS EXISTS THE RESULTS TEND TO REFLECT AN AD HOC OR BANDAGED APPROACH TO QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND AUTOMATION," HE SAID.

HOWEVER, THERE WAS AMPLE EVIDENCE TO SHOW THAT MANUFACTURERS WOULD INVEST HEAVILY IN THE EXPANSION OF PRODUCTION CAPACITY WHEN EXPORT PROSPECTS WERE FAVOURABLE.

/"THE FACT

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

"THE FACT IS FEW MANUFACTURERS KNOW PRECISELY WHAT THEY SHOULD PUT THEIR MONEY ON,” HE SAID.

TO INVEST IN INTEGRATED CAD/CAM SYSTEMS, MR YEUNG SUGGESTED THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD SEEK EXPERT ADVICE, WHICH WAS AVAILABLE FROM BOTH THE PRIVATE SECTOR AND THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL'S INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION UNIT AND CAD/CAM WORKSHOP.

’’THESE PEOPLE ARE ABLE TO ADVISE THE MANUFACTURER ON WHAT SYSTEM THEY COULD USE, HAVING REGARD TO THEIR PARTICULAR REQUIREMENTS, AND TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PURCHASE, NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS AND IMPLEMENTATION,” HE SAID.

”IN DUE COURSE THE CAD/CAM DEVELOPMENT PROJECT OF THE TWO UNIVERSITIES THAT THE GOVERNMENT IS NOW FUNDING SHOULD BE ABLE TO PROVIDE FURTHER ADVICE ON INTEGRATED, LOW-COST CAD/CAM SYSTEMS FOR THE METALS FABRICATION INDUSTRY, AND BY THE END OF 1988 THE HKPC WILL HAVE OPENED A SURFACE MOUNTED TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY FOR USE BY THOSE ELECTRONICS MANUFACTURERS WHO WISH TO AUTOMATE THE PRODUCTION OF THEIR PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARDS.”

-----0------

’KNOW GENETICS’ EXHIBITION IN TSIM SHA TSUI

* t « t t

THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT IS PLANNING TO EXPAND GENETIC SERVICES AND THE MEASURES IT UNDERTAKES TO PREVENT NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES.

THIS WAS STATED BY THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR, HEALTH SERVICES AND PLANNING, DR S. H. LEE, WHEN HE OPENED THE KNOW GENETICS EXHIBITION AT THE NEW WORLD CENTRE IN TSIM SHA TSUI TODAY (SATURDAY).

DR LEE SAID THAT IN THE PAST THREE DECADES THERE HAD BEEN A GRADUAL CHANGE IN EMPHASIS ON DELIVERY OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES IN HONG KONG.

THIS, HE EXPLAINED, WAS LARGELY DUE TO CHANGES IN DISEASE PATTERN AS A RESULT OF SUCCESSFUL CONTROL OF COMMON CHILDHOOD COMMUNICABLE DISEASES, BETTER MEDICAL AND HEALTH CARE AND IMPROVEMENT IN LIVING STANDARDS.

NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES, SUCH AS INHERITED DISEASES, HAD GAINED MORE ATTENTION IN THE MEDICAL FIELD AND IN THE COMMUNITY, HE SAID.

/IN LINE

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

IN LINE WITH ITS PREVENTIVE PROGRAMME, THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT HAD ESTABLISHED A GENETIC NEO-NATAL SCREENING PROGRAMME TO DETECT GLUCOSE-6-PHOSPHATE DEHYDROGENASE (G-6-PD) DEFICIENCY AND OTHER INHERITED DISEASES AMONG NEW-BORN BABIES.

COUNSELLING SERVICE WAS PROVIDED TO CHILDREN IN WHOM ABNORMALITY WAS DETECTED, DR LEE SAID.

DR LEE ALSO TOOK THE OPPORTUNITY TO CONGRATULATE THE HONG KONG SOCIETY OF MEDICAL GENETICS AND THE PENINSULA JAYCEES FOR JOINTLY ORGANISING THE KNOW GENETICS EXHIBITION.

HE PRAISED THE SOCIETY FOR PROMOTING INTEREST AND KNOWLEDGE IN MEDICAL GENETICS WITHIN THE MEDICAL PROFESSION AND AMONG THE PUBLIC.

THE EXHIBITION, WHICH WILL CONTINUE FOR A WEEK, IS INTENDED TO PROMOTE KNOWLEDGE IN MEDICAL GENETICS AND TO INTRODUCE SERVICES OFFERED BY THE TWO UNIVERSITIES, THE GOVERNMENT AND OTHER VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS.

-------0---------

MAJOR COUNTRY PARK SURVEY BEGINS

* t » t

A MAJOR SURVEY WILL BE CONDUCTED AS FROM TODAY (SATURDAY) IN HONG KONG'S POPULAR COUNTRY PARKS TO FIND OUT THE USAGE PATTERN OF PARK VISITORS AND TO IDENTIFY THEIR CHANGING NEEDS FOR PARK FACILITIES AND SERVICES.

THE SURVEY, THE THIRD ORGANISED BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT SINCE 1982, COVERS 17 COUNTRY PARKS AND THE TAI PO KAU NATURE RESERVE, ALL OF WHICH ARE POPULAR AREAS FOR VISITORS.

THE COUNTRY PARKS SELECTED FOR THE SURVEY INCLUDE ABERDEEN, TAI TAM, QUARRY BAY, POK FU LAM, LANTAO, SAI KUNG, MA ON SHAN, CLEARWATER BAY, KAM SHAN, LION ROCK, SHING MUN, TAI MO SHAN, TAI LAM, PAT SIN LENG AND PLOVER COVE.

THE DEPARTMENT'S SENIOR DEVELOPMENT OFFICER (COUNTRYSIDE), MR F.Y. WONG, SAID THAT THE SURVEY WILL TAKE PLACE ON TWO SEPARATE PERIODS FROM TODAY TO NOVEMBER 27 AND FROM DECEMBER 26 TO DECEMBER 30, COVERING THREE SATURDAYS AND THREE SUNDAYS.

"DURING THESE PERIODS, SOME 5,000 VISITORS TO THESE COUNTRY PARKS WILL BE SELECTED AT RANDOM FOR INTERVIEWS BY THE DEPARTMENT’S UNIFORMED PARK WARDENS.

"IN THIS SURVEY, NIGHT VISITORS WILL BE COVERED FOR THE FIRST TIME," MR WONG SAID.

/••VISITORS WILL

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 198?

8 -

’’VISITORS WILL BE ASKED SUCH SIMPLE QUESTIONS AS THEIR GROUP SIZE, GROUP COMPOSITION, THEIR HOME DISTRICT, MEANS AND COST OF TRANSPORT TO THE COUNTRY PARKS, TIME SPENT FOR TRAVELLING, THE FREQUENCY OF VISITS TO THE COUNTRY PARKS, PARK ACTIVITIES AND FACILITIES PREFERRED AND ANY SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT.”

EACH INTERVIEW WILL LAST FOR ONLY FIVE TO EIGHT MINUTES AND EVERY INTERVIEWEE WILL BE GIVEN A SOUVENIR AT THE END OF THE INTERVIEW IN APPRECIATION OF THEIR SUPPORT.

MR WONG URGED THE PUBLIC VISITING THE DESIGNATED COUNTRY PARKS AND SPECIAL AREA DURING THE SURVEY PERIODS AND NIGHT VISITORS IN PARTICULAR, TO CO-OPERATE FULLY WITH AFD SURVEY STAFF WHEN THEY ARE APPROACHED FOR INTERVIEW.

’’THE SURVEY WILL BE OF LONG-TERM BENEFIT TO THE PUBLIC AS THE RESULTS WILL PROVIDE USEFUL UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION FOR BETTER PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT OF THE COUNTRY PARKS AND FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS OF PARK FACILITIES AND SERVICES,” HE SAID.

THE INFORMATION AND DATA COLLECTED WILL BE COMPILED INTO A STATISTICAL SUMMARY REPORT AND UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL ANY REFERENCE BE MADE TO PERSONAL DATA OF INDIVIDUAL INTERVIEWEES, MR WONG STRESSED.

THE LAST TWO VISITOR SURVEYS WERE CARRIED OUT IN 1982 AND 1985 RESPECTIVELY AND THE RESULTS HAD PROVIDED VERY USEFUL DIRECTIVES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COUNTRY PARKS.

-----0------

YOUTH URGED TO UPHOLD RESPECT FOR THE ELDERLY

» * » » »

THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, TODAY (SATURDAY) CALLED ON THE YOUNGER GENERATION TO UPHOLD THE TRADITIONAL CHINESE VIRTUE OF RESPECTING, LOVING AND CARING FOR THE ELDERLY.

’’THIS WILL ENABLE THE ELDERLY TO LEAD A HAPPY FAMILY LIFE AND TO ENJOY THEIR OLD AGE,” SHE SAID.

MRS WONG WAS SPEAKING AT THE ’’FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY” ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE AT THE MARTHA BOSS COMMUNITY CENTRE IN HO MAN TIN.

SHE POINTED OUT THAT IT WAS THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY TO PROVIDE A WIDE RANGE OF SUPPORT SERVICES IN CO-OPERATION WITH VOLUNTARY AGENCIES TO ENCOURAGE THE ELDERLY TO REMAIN IN THE COMMUNITY AND UNDER FAMILY CARE.

/•’THESE SERVICES

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

9 -

"THESE SERVICES INCLUDE 44 HOME HELP TEAMS, 88 SOCIAL CENTRES, FOUR DAY CARE CENTRES, 12 MULTI-SERVICES CENTRES, THREE POOL CARS FOR OUTINGS, COUNSELLING SERVICE AND VISITS BY VOLUNTEERS," SHE SAID.

"THEY WILL BE EXPANDED EACH YEAR WITH THE AIM OF MEETING MOST OF THE DEMANDS IN FIVE YEARS," SHE ADDED.

MRS WONG RECALLED THAT IN AUGUST THIS YEAR, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT MOBILISED A LARGE NUMBER OF YOUTH VOLUNTEERS TO VISIT THE ELDERLY IN VARIOUS DISTRICTS, AND THIS HAD TURNED OUT TO BE VERY SUCCESSFUL.

"GOVERNMENT ALSO PROVIDES COMPASSIONATE REHOUSING, SHELTERED HOUSING AND RESIDENTIAL CARE FOR THOSE WHO LACK HOME CARE.

"TOGETHER WITH THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR, WE HOPE TO FURTHER DEVELOP AND STRENGTHEN ALL THESE SERVICES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DEMANDS," SHE SAID.

MRS WONG COMPLIMENTED THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE FOR ORGANISING SUCH A MEANINGFUL FESTIVAL AND THE OTHER VOLUNTARY AGENCIES FOR ARRANGING VARIOUS PROGRAMMES IN SUPPORT OF IT.

-------0---------

MUSICIAN ARRIVES FOR «

MUSIC OFFICE CELEBRATIONS « * *

A RENOWNED MUSICIAN FROM CHINA, MR XIAO BAIYONG, ARRIVED TODAY (SATURDAY) TO PARTICIPATE IN THE YOUTH CHINESE MUSIC WEEK WHICH IS PART OF THE CELEBRATION PROGRAMMES FOR THE MUSIC OFFICE’S TENTH ANNIVERSARY.

MR XIAO WILL BE JOINED BY TWO OTHER GUEST MUSICIANS, MR AN ZHISHUN AND MS FAN SHENGE, ALSO FROM CHINA, IN GIVING DEBUT PERFORMANCES AT A JING YING CONCERT TO BE HELD AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 18), STARTING AT 8 PM.

TALENTED YOUNG LOCAL MUSICIANS WILL ALSO PERFORM. THEY ARE MR WONG SIU-TO (PI-PA), MR LOO SZE-WANG (SHENG), MR LOO SZE-YUEN (ZHENG), MR TSANG MAN-FAI (DI-ZI) AND MR WONG CHI-CHUNG (ER-HU).

APART FROM GIVING PERFORMANCES, THE THREE GUEST MUSICIANS WILL CONDUCT A SERIES OF MASTERCLASSES, LECTURES AND DEMONSTRATIONS ON PERCUSSION, ER-HU AND ZHENG AT VARIOUS MUSIC CENTRES OF THE MUSIC OFFICE.

/AS PART

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1«$7

AS PART OF THE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS, THE CHINESE MUSIC WEEK WILL START WITH AN OPENING CONCERT TO BE HELD AT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM TONIGHT WHEN SOME 500 MEMBERS OF THE MUSIC OFFICE’S CHINESE ORCHESTRAS WILL PLAY TO A CAPACITY AUDIENCE. THE CONCERT WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM.

TOMORROW (SUNDAY)i AN INTERFLOW CONCERT JOINTLY PRESENTED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL WILL BE STAGED AT THE SHA TIN TOWN HALL INVOLVING AS MANY AS 15 LOCAL AMATEUR CHINESE ORCHESTRAS. IT WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM.

A MUSIC OFFICE SPOKESMAN SAID, " WE HOPE THAT THE CONCERT WILL PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL CHINESE ORCHESTRAS TO GET TOGETHER AND LEARN FROM EACH OTHER.”

A LIMITED NUMBER OF TICKETS FOR THE JING YING CONCERT AT $5 AND $10 ARE STILL AVAILABLE AT THE URBTIX OUTLETS. ADMISSION TO ALL THE MASTERCLASSES, LECTURES AND DEMONSTRATIONS IS FREE. FOR ENQUIRIES, CALL 0-4928127, 0-6065731 AND 5-8235321.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE WELCOME TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER BOTH THE OPENING CONCERT AND THE INTERFLOW CONCERT TO BE HELD AT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM AND AT THE SHA TIN TOWN HALL TONIGHT AND TOMORROW RESPECTIVELY.

------0-------

GOVERNOR TO VISIT EASTERN DISTRICT » » » »

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, WILL VISIT EASTERN DISTRICT ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16) AFTERNOON TO SEE THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN THE DISTRICT AND VISIT PLACES OF INTEREST.

ACCOMPANIED BY THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR T.H. CHAU, AND THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GARY YEUNG, THE GOVERNOR WILL VISIT THE FA YUEN VILLAGE AND ALDRICH BAY TYPHOON SHELTER IN SHAU KEI WAN.

HE WILL ALSO CALL ON ELDERLY PEOPLE AT THE HONG KONG SOCIETY FOR THE AGED MULTI-SERVICE CENTRE IN YUE WAN ESTATE AND LATER JOIN DISTRICT BOARD AND AREA COMMITTEE MEMBERS AT A RECEPTION AT YUE WAN COMMUNITY HALL.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE GOVERNOR'S VISIT TO EASTERN DISTRICT ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16). PRESS MEMBERS SHOULD ASSEMBLE AT 2.15 PM AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO CITY PLAZA, PHASE I, TAI KOO SHING ROAD.

------0 ------- /11 ....................

SATURDA^, NOVEMBER 14,

1987

- 11 -

TAI PO BEGINS ’KEEP CLEAN* CAMPAIGN t < t I t

THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN IN TAI PO WILL GET UNDERWAY WHEN A SPECIALLY DECORATED LORRY TOURS THE DISTRICT TOMORROW (SUNDAY).

A CEREMONY WILL BE HELD IN TAI PO PLAYGROUND TO MARK THE BEGINNING. THIS HAS BERN ORGANISED BY THE WORKING GROUP ON THE DISTRICT’S CAMPAIGN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE.

THE LORRY WILL BEAR THE SLOGAN ’’CLEAN HONG KONG” AND PAINTINGS DEPICTING THE TAI PO NEW TOWN AND IT8 FRINGE AREAS, THE TOLO HIGHWAY CYCLE TRACK AND MARICULTURE ZONES. IT WILL TOUR THE DISTRICT AFTER THE CEREMONY.

LITTER BAGS, BOOK-MARKS AND BALLOONS BEARING THE CAMPAIGN MESSAGE WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO RESIDENTS WHEN THE LORRY CALLS AT TAI PO MARKET, TAI YUEN ESTATE, FU SHIN ESTATE, KWONG FUK ESTATE AND VARIOUS VILLAGES.

IN ADDITION, A YOUTH RALLY WILL BE HELD IN THE PLAYGROUND AFTER THE CEREMONY. THIS HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

THE RALLY PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE TELEMATCH GAMES DESIGNED BY THE DEPARTMENT TO CONVEY THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN MESSAGE, AND A PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY FOR THE "TURNING LITTER INTO ORNAMENTAL/DECORATIVE ITEMS COMPETITION" HELD RECENTLY.

OFFICIATING AT THE CAMPAIGN LAUNCHING CEREMONY WILL BE THE TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICER, MR JOHN BURRETT; TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR STEPHEN WONG; REGIONAL COUNCIL MEMBER, MR TANG PUI-TAT; TAI PO RURAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR HO YUNG-SANG, AND THE SAI KUNG NORTH RURAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR LAM PAK-PING.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CEREMONY AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) IN THE TAI PO PLAYGROUND AT PO HEUNG STREET, TAI PO MARKET.

-----0------

/12

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

12 -

SINGING, DANCING COMPETITIONS TO DISCOVER TALENTS

« « « > «

SINGING AND DANCING ENTHUSIASTS NOW HAVE THE CHANCE TO DISPLAY THEIR TALENT AND WIN ATTRACTIVE PRIZES AT TWO COMPETITIONS TO BE HELD IN CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT NEXT MONTH.

THE SINGING CONTEST IS CO-ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, THE DISTRICT ASSOCIATION FOR CULTURE AND ARTS, AND THE MUSIC OFFICE.

THE CONTEST, NOW IN ITS SIXTH YEAR, IS INTENDED TO IMPROVE THE GENERAL STANDARD OF SINGING AND IS OPEN TO RESIDENTS BETWEEN 16 AND 30 YEARS OF AGE.

IT IS DIVIDED INTO THREE SECTIONS: CLASSICAL SOLO, POP OR FOLK SONG SOLO, AND POP OR FOLK SONG GROUP SINGING.

THE SEMI-FINALS WILL BE HELD ON DECEMBER 2 AND 5 ON 9/F, HONG KONG ARTS CENTRE, AND THE FINALS WILL BE HELD AT THE CITY HALL ON JANUARY 4.

A DISTRICT OFFICE SPOKESMAN SAID PARTICIPANTS SHOULD SELECT SONGS WITH MEANINGFUL THEMES AND DECENT LYRICS AND SHOULD ENROL ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 20.

ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SINGING CONTEST CAN BE MADE ON 5-8523002 OR 5-283257.

THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT DANCING COMPETITION WILL BE HELD AT CARITAS IN CAINE ROAD ON DECEMBER 13. PARTICIPANTS MAY PERFORM ORIENTAL, FOLK, OR MODERN DANCES.

CHILDREN AGED BETWEEN SIX AND 12 CAN TAKE PART IN THE JUNIOR SECTION, WHILE PARTICIPANTS FROM SECONDARY SCHOOLS, LOCAL ORGANISATIONS OR AMATEUR DANCE TROUPES SHOULD ENROL IN THE OPEN SECTION.

OUTSTANDING DANCERS AND DANCE GROUPS WILL BE AWARDED TROPHIES.

THE EVENT IS ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICE, THE DISTRICT ASSOCIATION FOR CULTURE AND ARTS, THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE DISTRICT’S RECREATION AND SPORT ASSOCIATION WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD.

THE DEADLINE FOR ENTRY IS NOVEMBER 26. FORMS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT RECREATION, AMENITIES AND SPORTS OFFICE ON THE TOP FLOOR, CENTRAL MARKET; THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES.

ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 5-416405.

0 ------- /13....................

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

CLEAN HK AND HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN * * * «

A COMBINED CLEAN HONG KONG AND HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN ORGANISED BY THE KWAI CHUNG AND TSINO YI DISTRICT BOARD WAS LAUNCHED TODAY (SATURDAY).

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT’S CAMPAIGN, MR LEE 8HUNG-SHIN, SAID ACTIVITIES WILL CENTRE ON ERADICATING MOSQUITOES AND PREVENTING FIRE.

POSTERS AND BANNERS WILL BE DISPLAYED AT HOUSING ESTATES AND OTHER LOCATIONS AND LEAFLETS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO RESIDENTS, HE SAID.

AN ANTI-MOSQUITOES DISPLAY AND EXHIBITIONS ON HOME AND GAS SAFETY WERE SET UP AT THE VENUE IN HING FUNG ROAD PLAYGROUND. RESIDENTS ALSO ENJOYED A ONE-HOUR VARIETY SHOW AND TOOK PART IN A QUIZ.

TAKING PART IN THE OPENING CEREMONY WERE KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BRIAN COAK; KWAI CHUNG DISTRICT HYGIENE SUPERINTENDENT OF THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR CHOY SHU-KAI; AND DIVISION COMMANDER OF THE NT SOUTHERN DIVISION OF THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR C.W. CHEUNG.

IN SUPPORT OF THE TERRITORY-WIDE CLEAN HONG KONG CAMPAIGN, KWAI TSING DISTRICT WILL ALSO TAKE PART IN THE BUS PARADE ORGANISED BY THE JOINT URBAN COUNCIL/REGIONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE TOMORROW (SUNDAY).

- - 0 -

SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS SOLD BY AUCTION

*****

FORTY SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBERS WERE PUT UP FOR AUCTION THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING FOR A TOTAL OF 1982,100 WHICH WILL GO INTO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY PURPOSES.

THE AUCTION, HELD AT THE RECITAL HALL OF THE CITY HALL, SAW THE REGISTRATION NUMBER AK3333 FETCH THE HIGHEST PRICE OF $250,000.

ANOTHER NUMBER, DEI, WAS SOLD AT THE SECOND HIGHEST PRICE OF $120,000 WHILE THE LOWEST PRICE WAS $1,500 FOR DP751.

/FOLLOWING ARE

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

FOLLOWING ARK THE RESULTS OF TODAY'S AUCTION:

$ $ $ $

DP8777 2,500 AP596 2,000 DR560 12,000 DR1638 15,000

DP325 2,800 DP751 1,500 DP9000 18,000 DR1668 25,000

DH9779 6,000 DR1303 4,000 DR118 32,000 DP8088 13,000

AS693 3,000 DM8778 15,000 DR119 14,000 AK3333 250,000

DR381 5,000 DR632 4,000 DP18 68,000 DP8388 18,000

CK8228 40,000 DP9199 2,800 DP1888 60,000 DS822 18,000

DR6222 3,500 AK228 30,000 DR327 15,000 DR128 28,000

DR944 3,700 DEI 120,000 DP8698 8,800 DP800 29,000

DR893 6,800 DR2823 8,000 DP2345 13,000 DR238 45,000

DN500 22,000 AC986 10,000 DR3028 5,700 DS8221 2,000

SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS WERE REQUIRED TO PAY IN CASH OR BY CHEQUE

IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.

THE NUMBERS AUCTIONED WILL BE ASSIGNED ONLY TO VEHICLES REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE DATE OF AUCTION.

TODAY'S SALE, THE 118TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973, BROUGHT THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF MONEY FOR CHARITY REALISED SO FAR TO $48,268,532.

-----0------

DEBATE FOR CENTRAL AND WESTERN STUDENTS t » t »

SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT ARE BEING INVITED TO TAKE PART IN A DEBATE JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE DISTRICT ASSOCIATION FOR CULTURE AND ARTS (CENTRAL AND WESTERN).

PARTICIPANTS WILL DEBATE THE ISSUE OF ILLEGAL HAWKING AT THE EMI-FINALS ON NOVEMBER 28, AND AT THE FINALS ON DECEMBER 5. THE SUBJECT WILL BE THE POWERS OF DISTRICT BOARDS.

A DISTRICT OFFICE SPOKESMAN SAID THE DEBATE WOULD PROMOTE CIVIC AWARENESS AMONG STUDENTS AS THEY WERE REQUIRED TO STUDY CLOSELY ALL DEVELOPMENTS IN SOCIETY.

THE TOP TWO TEAMS WILL BE AWARDED BOOK COUPONS AS WELL AS TROPHIES.

INTERESTED PERSONS SHOULD ENROL ON OR BEFORE WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 18).

ENROLMENT FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE AT 11/F, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL.

ENQUIRIES MAY BE MADE ON 5-8523489 OR 5-8523488.

-----0-----

/15........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

- 15 -

MONG KOK GOOD CITIZENS TO GET AWARDS « * * *

EIGHT MONG KOK RESIDENTS WILL BE PRESENTED GOOD CITIZEN AWARDS IN A PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT MACPHERSON PLAYGROUND.

IT IS PART OF A LARGE-SCALE CARNIVAL JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE MONG KOK DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE AND THE MONO KOK POLICE STATION TO ENHANCE RESIDENTS’ AWARENESS ON CRIME PREVENTION.

THE CARNIVAL FEATURES GAMESTALLS AND PERFORMANCES BY POPULAR SINGERS AND TELEVISION ARTISTES.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MRS ROSANNA TAM; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR CHOW CHUN-FAI; DISTRICT OFFICER, MRS BRENDA FUNG AND POLICE DEPUTY DISTRICT COMMANDER, MONG KOK, MR ROBIN LEUNG WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY OF THE GOOD CITIZEN AWARDS AND THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL TO BE HELD AT 12 NOON TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT MACPHERSON PLAYGROUND, SAI YEE STREET, MONG KOK.

------0-------

SOUTHERN DISTRICT ANTI-TRIAD SOCCER COMPETITION

*****

A SEVEN-A-SIDE SOCCER TOURNAMENT WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) FROM 9 AM TO 6 PM AT THE WONG CHUK HANG HARD-SURFACED SOCCER PITCH AS PART OF SOUTHERN DISTRICT'S ANTI-TRIAD CAMPAIGN.

ORGANISED BY THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE (DFCC), THE TOURNAMENT IS AIMED AT PUTTING ACROSS THE ANTI-TRIAD MESSAGE TO RESIDENTS, ESPECIALLY YOUNGSTERS, THROUGH WHOLESOME ACTIVITY.

THERE WILL BE 16 TEAMS COMPETING IN THE SCHOOL AND THE OPEN SECTIONS.

RESIDENTS ARB WELCOME TO WATCH THE MATCHES. ADMISSION IS FREE.

SOUTHERN DFCC CHAIRMAN, MR KAN MAN-LEE AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS WILL PRESENT PRIZES TO WINNERS AT A CEREMONY AT 4 PM.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE SOCCER TOURNAMENT AND THE PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY AT 4 PM.

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/16........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

- 16

TELEMATCH FUN FOR WORKERS

* » »

MORE THAN 200 WORKERS FROM 10 INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENTS IN KWUN TONG WILL COMPETE IN A TELEMATCH FUN DAY AT THE KOWLOON BAY RECREATION GROUND TOMORROW (SUNDAY).

ORGANISED BY THE INDUSTRIAL AREA BRANCH OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS PROMOTION ASSOCIATION, THE FUN DAY IS A HIGHLIGHT OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL ’87.

THE PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE FIVE ACTION-PACKED GAMES, WHICH ARE INTENDED TO FOSTER TIES AMONG LOCAL INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENTS.

THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDDY CHAN; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM HANG-FAI; AND PRESIDENT OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL '87, MR YU SUN-SAY, WILL OFFICIATE AT AN OPENING CEREMONY.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE TELEMATCH FUN DAY TO BEGIN AT 1.30 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE KOWLOON BAY RECREATION GROUND.

-----0------

TUEN MUN SEMINAR ON SAFETY OF ELECTRICITY

« « « « «

THE CHINA LIGHT AND POWER CO. LTD (CLP) AND THE COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY COMMITTEE OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD WILL HOLD A SEMINAR ON THE "SAFETY OF ELECTRICITY" FOR RESIDENTS AND INDUSTRIALISTS ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16).

THE SEMINAR WILL BE HELD IN THE CULTURAL ACTIVITIES HALL OF THE TUEN MUN TOWN HALL, STARTING AT 2.30 PM.

THE SPEAKER WILL BE A CLP ENGINEER FOR WORK, PLANNING AND PROGRAMMING, MR W.K. CHENG. HE WILL USB SLIDES TO ILLUSTRATE THE SAFE USB OF ELECTRICITY AND WILL ANSWER QUESTIONS.

ADMISSION TO THE SEMINAR IS ON A FIRST-COME-FIRST-SERVBD BASIS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SEMINAR "SAFETY OF ELECTRICITY", TO BEGIN AT 2.30 PM ON MONDAY IN THE CULTURAL ACTIVITIES HALL OF TUEN MUN TOWN HALL.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

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TOUO HIGHWAY SPEED LIMIT ON COMMITTEE AGENDA *****

THE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16) TO DISCUSS THE SPEED LIMIT ON THE TOLO HIGHWAY.

THE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE CONSULTATIVE DOCUMENT ON THE TAXI POLICY REVIEW.

AT THE MEETING, MEMBERS WILL LOOK INTO THE PROBLEM OF TRAFFIC FLOW OUTSIDE THE TAI PO MARKET KCR STATION AND DIFFICULTIES IN BOARDING AND ALIGHTING AT THE BUS LAY-BYS AND THE GREEN MINIBUS TERMINUS.

THEY WILL ALSO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS ON A NUMBER OF PROPOSED TRAFFIC IMPROVEMENT MEASURES: A CHANGE IN THE EXISTING ROAD MARKINGS ALONG A SECTION OF KWONG FUK ROAD BETWEEN TUNG CHEONG STREET AND NAM WAN ROAD, WAYS TO SOLVE THE CONGESTION CAUSED BY TAXIS QUEUEING OUTSIDE 76 PO HEUNG STREET, AND A 24-HOUR RESTRICTED ZONE AT THE ROUNDABOUT IN FU SHIN ESTATE.

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE THE KCR SERVICE AND PEDESTRIAN CROSSING FACILITIES OUTSIDE A PRBVOCATIONAL SCHOOL IN KWONG FUK ESTATE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 9.30 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD SECRETARIAT, 3/F, TAI PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE, 152 KWONG FUK ROAD.

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SHA TIN DB TO DISCUSS MAC OFFICE ACCOMMODATION

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THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17) MORNING TO DISCUSS OFFICE ACCOMMODATION FOR MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES IN PRIVATE BUILDINGS.

DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER MR CHAN HON-YING WILL ASK IF THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONSIDER ALLOCATING CERTAIN HOUSING UNITS FOR USE BY MAC’S. HE ALSO WANTS TO KNOW IF THE LANDS AND WORKS BRANCH MAY INCLUDE APPROPRIATE CLAUSES IN SETTING LEASE CONDITIONS TO RESERVE SPACE FOR MAC OFFICES OR EXERT ANY INFLUENCE ON PRIVATE DEVELOPERS TO ALLOCATE UNITS.

/ANOTHER MEMBER

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1987

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ANOTHER MEMBER MR LAM HUNG-CHIU WILL ASK IF THERE ARE SUFFICIENT ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE COLLECTION OF REFUSE TO COPE WITH THE RAPID DEVELOPMENT AND GREAT INCREASE IN POPULATION OF SHA TIN NEW TOWN.

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE APPLICATION FOR FUNDS AS WELL AS PROGRESS REPORTS BY THE DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND THE DISTRICT BOARD COMMITTEES.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD MEETING, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 9.30 AM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17) AT THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM ON 6/F, KCR HOUSE, SHA TIN STATION.

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DISTANCE LEARNING FOR MANAGERS TO BEGIN ' « » * *

THE FIRST EXPERIMENTAL PROJECT TO PROVIDE A DISTANCE LEARNING COURSE FOR OWNER MANAGERS OF SMALL BUSINESS IS BEING LAUNCHED BY THE MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT CENTRE (MDC) OF THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL NEXT WEEK.

THE COURSE HAS BEEN DEVELOPED TO HELP IMPROVE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SMALL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT IN THE TERRITORY, THE DIRECTOR OF THE CENTRE, MR MICHAEL CUMBERS, SAID.

IN ORDER TO DETERMINE THE BEST APPROACH TO PROVIDING DISTANCE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR MANAGERS IN HONG KONG, THE CENTRE HAS DIVIDED THE SOME 100 COURSE PARTICIPANTS INTO THREE DIFFERENT GROUPS OF LEARNING MODES -- FULLY-DISTANCED, WORKSHOP-BASED AND TUTOR-LED.

MR CUMBERS SAID THE RESULTS OF THE PROJECT WOULD BE EVALUATED AT THE END OF THE COURSE LATE NEXT SPRING.

HE ADDED THAT THIS EXPERIMENTAL WORK HAS BEEN CARRIED OUT BY A TEAM OF STAFF DRAWN FROM SEVERAL EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF MDC’S SENIOR ADVISER, MR A.N. WELSH.

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/19........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14,

1987

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NEW TILTING TEST PLATFORM FOR TRI-AXLE BUSES

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THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAS AWARDED A 11.4-MILLION CONTRACT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A REINFORCED CONCRETE PIT TO ACCOMMODATE A TILTING TEST PLATFORM FOR THE INSPECTION OF TRI-AXLE BUSES AT THE KOWLOON BAY VEHICLE INSPECTION CENTRE.

"THIS NEW TILTING TEST PLATFORM WILL BE THE FIRST AND ONLY SUCH DEVICE IN HONG KONG SPECIALLY MADE TO TEST TRI-AXLE BUSES," A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).

"WORK IS EXPECTED TO START LATER THIS MONTH AND BE COMPLETED IN MAY NEXT YEAR.

"ANOTHER CONTRACT WILL THEN BE LET FOR THE INSTALLATION OF THE PLATFORM ITSELF AND THE NECESSARY MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL SERVICES," HE ADDED.

THE TEST PLATFORM WILL BECOME OPERATIONAL IN EARLY 1989, UNDER THE MANAGEMENT OF THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT.

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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN KWUN TONG

« * * *

FROM 8 PM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17), HIP WO STREET BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH TUNG YAN STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 110 METRES SOUTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE CONVERTED FROM TWO-LANE NORTHBOUND TO THREE-LANE NORTHBOUND AND FROM TWO-LANE SOUTHBOUND TO SINGLE LANE SOUTHBOUND TRAFFIC.

AT THE SAME TIME, THE FOLLOWING ROAD SECTIONS WILL BE DESIGNATED 24-HOUR DAILY URBAN CLEARWAYS:

* TUNG YAN STREET BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH HIP WO STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 20 METRES WEST OF THE SMAE JUNCTION.

» HIP WO STREET NORTHBOUND FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH TUNG YAN

STREET TO A POINT ABOUT SEVEN METRES SOUTH OF THE SAME

JUNCTION.

* HIP WO STREET SOUTHBOUND FROM A POINT ABOUT 65 METRES NORTH

OF ITS JUNCTION WITH TUNG YAN STREET TO A POINT ABOUT

55 METRES SOUTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION.

ALL VEHICLES EXCEPT FOR FRANCHISED BUSES WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR GOODS OR PASSENGERS WITHIN THE URBAN CLEARWAYS.

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/2O........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1987

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TRAFFIC CHANGES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES

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THE ACCESS ROAD LINKING NEW CONTAINER PORT ROAD WITH KWAI CHUNG ROAD NEAR CHING CHEUNG ROAD FLYOVER WILL BE OPEN TO TRAFFIC FROM 7 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 16).

IN SHA TIN, IN ORDER TO FACILITATE MAINTENANCE WORKS CARRIED OUT BY THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT, VEHICLES ON TAI PO ROAD SOUTHBOUND WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER CHIK WAN STREET FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17) TO 10 AM ON NOVEMBER 20.

AFFECTED VEHICLES WILL HAVE TO USE EITHER KENG HAU ROAD, CHE KUNG MUI ROAD AND MEI TIN ROAD OR TAI WAI ROAD AND MEI TIN ROAD.

AT THE SAME TIME. SOUTHBOUND VEHICLES ON LOWER SHING MUN ROAD WILL BE BANNED FROM ENTERING CHIK WAN STREET, AND WILL BE DIVERTED VIA TAI PO ROAD AND MEI TIN ROAD.

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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

NOT UNREASONABLE FOR GOVT TO REPLY TO CRITICISMS - CS... 1

CS OFFICIATES AT COLOURFUL PARADE ......................... 2

DFCC PLAYS IMPORTANT ROLE IN FIGHTING CRIME................ 3

GRAND OPENING OF EASTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ................ 4

PUBLICATION OF GUIDE TO SITE INVESTIGATION ................ 5

BID TO CURB KOWLOON CITY TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS ................ 6

SPECIAL STAMP ISSUE ON WEDNESDAY .......................... 8

LOWER TAR CIGARETTE DOMINATES MARKET ...................... 8

TAI PO RESIDENTS URGED TO KEEP DISTRICT CLEAN ..........

EIGHT BRAVE CITIZENS HONOURED ............................ 10

FIRST KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL A SUCCESS ............... 11

KSUN TONG WORKERS SHARE TELEMATCH FUN .................... 11

WARNING ON BOGUS LABOUR OFFICIALS......................... 12

COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS POLICIES ON DEMOLISHING ILLEGAL STRUCTURES................................................ 12

PRESS CONFERENCE ON 1988 HK INTERNATIONAL MARATHON........ 13

SHORTAGE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL PLACES ON DB AGENDa.......... 14

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS GUIDELINES ON USE OF FUNDS........ 14

VILLAGE HOUSES TO BE BUILT ON TSING YI ................... 15

PEDESTRIAN/CYCLE BRIDGE FOR YUEN LONG .................... 15

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1987

NOT UNREASONABLE FOR GOVT TO REPLY TO CRITICISMS - CS

THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) THAT HIS RECENT REMARKS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN RESPONSE TO CRITICISM WERE NOT INTENDED TO BE A THREAT, BUT WERE SIMPLY MEANT TO INDICATE THAT IT WAS NOT UNREASONABLE FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO REPLY WHEN BEING CRITICISED.

SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER OFFICIATING AT THE 1987 KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN PARADE AT EDINBURGH PLACE, MR FORD SAID AS THE CHIEF OFFICIAL IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN, HE SHOULD BE ABLE TO RESPOND TO CRITICISM, AND HE WAS NOT SEEKING CONFRONTATIONAL POLITICS.

’'WHAT HAS HAPPENED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IS THAT OVER THE YEARS RECENTLY, WITH THE WIDENING OF THE REPRESENTATION THERE, WE’VE HAD MORE LIVELY DEBATES, I THINK THAT’S TO BE ENCOURAGED, I THINK THAT’S TO BE WELCOMED AS I’VE SAID SO IN MY SPEECH, AND THAT LIVELY DEBATES WOULD LEAD TO CRITICISM OF THE GOVERNMENT. I THINK THAT’S INEVITABLE,” HE SAID.

"I’VE HEARD IT SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S JOB WAS TO SIT AND LISTEN, BUT NOT TO REPLY, BUT MY JOB AS THE CHIEF OFFICIAL IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IS ALSO TO REPRESENT THE GOVERNMENT’S POINT OF V1FW. I’M THE GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN, AND I THINK THAT EVERYBODY UNDERSTANDS THAT I SHOULD BE ABLE TO RESPOND TO CRITICISM," HE ADDED.

MR FORD SAID SOME PEOPLE HAD SAID THAT HIS REMARKS AT LAST WEDNESDAY’S LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WAS A BIT TOO FORCEFUL, BUT IN FACT. HE SAID, THEY WERE QUITE MILD WHEN COMPARING WITH THE ACCUSATIONS MADE IN THE POLICY DEBATE WHICH WERE INDEED VERY CRITICAL OF THE GOVERNMENT AND THE GOVERNOR.

"I THINK IT IS UNFORTUNATE THAT SOME OF MY REMARKS HAD BEEN TAKEN AS A THREAT. I TOOK VERY CAREFUL CHINESE ADVICE ABOUT THEM. THEY CERTAINLY WERE NOT INTENDED IN ANY WAY TO BE A THREAT. THEY WERE SIMPLY MEANT TO INDICATE THAT IF THE GOVERNMENT WAS CRITICISED, IT WAS NOT UNREASONABLE FOR US TO REPLY," HE SAID.

MR FORD SAID THE REAL BUSINESS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WAS TO GET ON WITH POLICY DEBATES AND DISCUSSING POLICIES AND NOT PERSONALITIES.

"I THINK THAT’S WHAT WE SHOULD DO AND I HOPE THAT’S WHAT WILL HAPPEN," HE SAID.

MR FORD DISAGREED WITH A SUGGESTION THAT HIS REMARKS MIGHT PUT SOME COUNCILLORS OFF IN FUTURE FROM BEING SO STRONGLY CRITICAL WITH THE GOVERNMENT.

"I’M SURE IT WILL NOT. IT WAS CERTAINLY NOT INTENDED THAT WAY," HE SAID.

/’’IN ANY...........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 19^7

”IN ANY CASE, MY WIFE TELLS ME THAT SHE DOESN’T THINK THAT THE TIGER’S SKIN SUITED ME TOO WELL — IT’S NOT IN KEEPING WITH MY CHARACTER. SO I DON’T SUPPOSE I SHOULD BE PUTTING IT ON VERY OFTEN IN THE FUTURE.”

TURNING TO THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN, MR FORD SAID HE WAS A GREAT SUPPORTER OF THE CAMPAIGN.

"WE INVENTED LAP SAP CHUNG 15 YEARS AGO AND STARTED THIS CAMPAIGN. IT’S MARVELLOUS TO SEE HOW THE IMPETUS IS STILL GOING, AND WHAT A GOOD EFFECT I THINK IT IS HAVING ON THE YOUNG PEOPLE IN HONG KONG. i'

”1 HOPE IT WILL GROW FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH. I THINK IT DESERVES TO DO SO.”

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CS OFFICIATES AT COLOURFUL PARADE ♦ » ♦ ♦

A TOTAL OF 27 ORGANISATIONS, 14 FROM DISTRICT BOARDS AND 13 FROM COMMERCIAL AND PUBLIC’ UTILITY CORPORATIONS, TODAY (SUNDAY) TOOK PART IN THE LARGEST-EVER VEHICLE PARADE TN HONG KONG WHICH RAN FROM TSUEN WAN SPORTS GROUND TO EDINBURGH PLACE.

THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN PARADE, ORGANISED BY THE JOINT URBAN/REGIONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE TO LAUNCH THIS YEAR’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN AT DISTRICT LEVEL, IS AIMED AT ENCOURAGING PRIVATE ORGANISATIONS TO SUPPORT THE CAMPAIGN.

AT A CEREMONY HELI) AT EDINBURGH PLAUE, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, OFF I GATED AT A BALLOON-FLYING CEREMONY WHICH KICKED OFF A ONE-HOUR LIVE TELEVISI ON SHOW (’ENTERING ROUND THE PARADE AND CLEAN HONG KONG MESSAGES. HE WAS ACCOMPANIED BY THE SECRETARY FOR MUNK’I PAL SERVICES, MR A.K. CHUI; THE (’HAIRMAN AND VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE STEERING COMMITTEE, MR CARLOS ('HEUNG AND MR WALTER SULKE.

TOWARDS THE ENI) OF THE SHOW, MRS FORD PRESENTED TROPHIES TO WINNERS OF THE BEST DECORATED VEHICLES CONTEST, WHICH WAS DIVIDED INTO THE DISTRICT BOARD AND COMMERCIAL AND PUBLIC UTILITY CORPORATION SECTIONS.

THE (’HAMPION FOR THE DISTRICT BOARD SECTION WAS TUEN MUN. THE FIRST AND SECOND RUNNERS-UP WERE NORTHERN AND KWAI CHING RESPECTIVELY.

MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION WON THE FIRST PRIZE FOR THE COMMERCIAL AND PUBLIC UTILITY CORPORATI ON SECTION. THE SECOND AND THIRD PRIZES WENT TO THE GARDEN CO LTD AND KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION RESPECT IVELY.

/the panel........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15. 1987

THE PANEL OF ADJUDICATORS FOR THE CONTEST COMPRISED LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MR YEUNG PO-KWAN; THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR PETER MOSS; AND THE PRINCIPAL INSPECTOR OF EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, MR C.L. KWOK.

EARLIER, AT A BRIEF CEREMONY HELD AT TSUEN WAN SPORTS GROUND, MORE THAN 1,000 SPECTATORS WERE ENTERTAINED BY A DRAGON DANCE PERFORMANCE. IT WAS PRECEDED BY AN EYE-DOTTING CEREMONY OFFICIATED BY URBAN COUNCILLOR DR RONALD LEUNG.

ADDRESSING THE GATHERING PRIOR TO THE START OF THE PARADE, CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG POINTED OUT THAT THIS YEAR’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN HAD GAINED THE SUPPORT OF NUMEROUS ORGANISATIONS SINCE ITS LAUNCHING.

"THESE ORGANISATIONS TOOK THE INITIATIVE TO PLEDGE SUPPORT TO THE CAMPAIGN IN VARIOUS FORM," HE SAID.

QUOTING THE VEHICLE PARADE AS AN EXAMPLE, MR CHEUNG SAID "IT IS INDEED VERY ENCOURAGING TO SEE SO MANY DISTRICT BOARDS AND PRIVATE CORPORATIONS 'PITCHING IN’ THE CAMPAIGN BY TAKING PART IN TODAY’S FUNCTION.”

AFTER THE ADDRESS, DR LEUNG AND MR CHEUNG TOOK SALUTE OF ALL THE PARADE VEHICLES, WHICH WERE DECORATED WITH KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN MESSAGES AND THEIR DISTRICT/CORPORATE IDENTITIES.

THE VEHICLES WERE PARKED AT THE EDINBURGH PLACE THIS AFTERNOON FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION. SOME VEHICLES HAD SMALL-SCALE PERFORMANCES ON BOARD AND SOUVENIRS WERE DISTRIBUTED TO VISITORS.

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DFCC PLAYS IMPORTANT ROLE IN FIGHTING CRIME * » » t »

THE SHA TIN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE (STDFCCI PLAYS A CRUCIAL ROLE IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CRIME, ESPECIALLY IN ENCOURAGING THE COMMUNITY TO JOIN IN ANTI-CRIME ACTIVITIES, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR DAVID JEAFFRESON, SAID THIS (SUNDAY) AFTERNOON.

SPEAKING AT THE DISTRICT’S FIGHT CRIME GAMES DAY, MR JEAFFRESON SAID THE COMMITTEE HAD KEPT UNDER REVIEW THE STATE OF CRIME AND LAW ENFORCEMENT IN THE DISTRICT, AND HAD COORDINATED DISTRICT EFFORTS TO ASSIST THE POLICE IN VARIOUS ANTI-CRIME ACTIVITIES, SUCH AS THE LIFT DISPLAY PROJECT AND THE NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH SCHEME.

/"THIS LATTER........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1987

"THIS LATTER SCHEME, WHICH AIMS AT FOSTERING A SENSE OF MUTUAL HELP AMONG NEIGHBOURS, IS MAKING HEADWAY IN SHA TIN," HE SAID.

"I UNDERSTAND THAT 677 NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH UNITS INVOLVING NEARLY 7,000 HOUSEHOLDS, HAVE BEEN FORMED HERE FORMED HERE SINCE THE SCHEME WAS STARTED IN NOVEMBER 1985.

"THIS CLEARLY INDICATED THE SUCCESS OF THE SCHEME AND THE COMMUNITY’S GROWING AWARENESS OF THE NEED TO TAKE SUITABLE MEASURES TO PREVENT CRIME," HE ADDED.

MR JEAFFRESON NOTED THAT THE STDFCC HAD ALSO ORGANISED MANY ACTIVITIES IN SUPPORT OF TERR1TORY-WIDE FIGHT CRIME PUBLICITY. THESE INCLUDE A POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION, A BOOKMARK COMPETITION ON THE PREVENTION OF SHOPTHEFT, AN ANTI-TRIAD VARIETY SHOW AND TODAY’S GAMES DAY.

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE STDFCC, MR ROGER LAU, SAID THE CRIME RATE IN SHA TIN HAD DROPPED THROUGH THE COOPERATION OF THE POLICE, THE COMMITTEE AND THE COMMUNITY.

"IN PARTICULAR, THE MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES IN OUR DISTRICT, WHICH NUMBER MORE THAN 200 HAVE CONTRIBUTED GREATLY TO THE SUCCESS OF THE NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH SCHEME," HE ADDED.

TWELVE TEAMS TOOK PART IN TODAY’S GAMES DAY ORGANISED BY THE STDFCC AT THE SHA TIN SPORTS GROUND. THEY REPRESENTED THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD, RURAL COMMITTEE, SPORTS AND ARTS ASSOCIATIONS, YIN NGA1 SOCIETY, SHA TIN DISTRICT JUNIOR POLICE CALL, AS WELL AS AREA COMMITTEES OF YUEN WO, TSANG TAI UK, SHA KOK, TIN SUM, SHING MUN EAST AND CHE KUNG TEMPLE. THE POLICE PIPE BAND AND POLICE DOGS ALSO PERFORMED AT THE EVENT.

OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS INCLUDED THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR VICTOR YUNG; THE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR NG CHAN-LAM; AND DISTRICT POLICE COMMANDER, MR JOHN GREENE.

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GRAND OPENING OF EASTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL » » t » »

THE TWO-WEEK EASTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL, FEATURING 30 LARGE-SCALE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND SPECIAL PROGRAMMES FOR THE ELDERLY AND THE DISABLED, STARTED TODAY (NOVEMBER 15) AT VICTORIA PARK.

THE MAIN THEME OF THE FESTIVAL IS "PARTICIPATE IN YOUR DISTRICT’S DEVELOPMENT".

/speaking at........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1987

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SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, THE REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON), MR T.H. CHAU, SAID THE AIM OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL WAS TO ENHANCE PUBLIC AWARENESS IN COMMUNITY BUILDING AND TO INSTILL A SENSE OF DISTRICT BELONGING AMONG LOCAL RESIDENTS.

MR CHAU ALSO NOTED THAT OWING TO RAPID DEVELOPMENT, IMPROVEMENTS WERE BEING MADE IN TRANSPORT, LIVING ENVIRONMENT AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES IN EASTERN DISTRICT.

HE PRAISED LOCAL BODIES AND OTHER ORGANISATIONS FOR GIVING THEIR FULL SUPPORT IN MAKING THE FESTIVAL A POPULAR EVENT.

ACCOMPANIED BY THE FESTIVAL’S ORGANISING COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR ERIC LI, DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GARY YEUNG, AND EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR SHUM CHOI-SANG, MR CHAU LOOKED OVER THE VARIOUS ACTIVITIES IN PROGRESS. THESE INCLUDED GAME STALLS AND GAMES FOR CHILDREN.

OTHER MAJOR EVENTS DURING THE FESTIVAL PERIOD INCLUDE A CONCERT BY CLASSICAL PERFORMERS, CHINESE DANCE PERFORMANCE, SPORTS, ARTS GALA, AND A POP CONCERT.

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PUBLICATION OF GUIDE TO SITE INVESTIGATION

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THE GOVERNMENT HAS PUBLISHED THE SECOND IN A SERIES OF GEOGUIDES ON GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING TN HONG KONG.

THE GUIDE TO SITE INVESTIGATION (GEOGUIDE 2) IS PRODUCED BY THE GEOTECHNICAL CONTROL OFFICE (GCO) OF THE CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

"IT PRESENTS A RECOMMENDED STANDARD OF GOOD PRACTICE FOR SITE INVESTIGATIONS," THE PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER, DR E.W. BRAND, SAID.

THE GEOGUIDE IS DIVIDED INTO FIVE MAIN PARTS COVERING GENERAL ASPECTS OF SITE SELECTION, PLANNING THE GROUND INVESTIGATION, METHODS OF GROUND INVESTIGATION SUCH AS EXCAVATION, BORING AND SAMPLING, FIELD AND LABORATORY TESTING AND PREPARATION OF REPORTS.

IT DESCRIBES SUITABLE WAYS OF CARRYING OUT INVESTIGATIONS ROTH ON LAND AND OFFSHORE AND IS APPLICABLE TO ALL TYPES OF ROCK AND SOIL CONDITIONS FOUND TN THE TERRITORY.

/’’THE GEOGUIDE......

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1987

’’THE GEOGUIDE WILL BE INVALUABLE TO ENGINEERS, GEOLOGISTS AND ARCHITECTS INVOLVED WITH PLANNING, EXECUTION AND SUPERVISION OF SITE INVESTIGATIONS FOR ENGINEERING PROJECTS AND BUILDING WORKS,” DR BRAND SAID.

“BECAUSE OF ITS COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE OF SITE INVESTIGATION METHODS, IT SHOULD ALSO BE OF INTEREST TO ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTISTS, PLANNERS, TEACHERS AND ACADEMICS.”

HE EMPHASISED THAT GOOD SITE INVESTIGATION WAS A PREREQUISITE FOR SAFE AND ECONOMICAL LAND DEVELOPMENT.

’’THE RAPID URBAN DEVELOPMENT IN HONG KONG OVER THE LAST 10 TO 20 YEARS HAS LED TO ENGINEERING AND BUILDING WORKS OF INCREASING SIZE AND COMPLEXITY, VERY OFTEN IN DIFFICULT TERRAIN.

”IT IS IMPORTANT TO ENSURE THAT INVESTIGATION METHODS AND PRACTICES KEEP PACE WITH SUCH DEVELOPMENT.

’’THERE HAVE BEEN SOME SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS IN LOCAL SITE INVESTIGATION PRACTICE IN THE PAST FEW YEARS, AND THE GEOGUIDE SERVES AS A VERY CONVENIENT AND UP-TO-DATE SUMMARY OF ALL THE COMMONLY-USED METHODS,” HE ADDED.

THE 362-PAGE GEOGUIDB, WHICH INCLUDES AN EXTREMELY USEFUL APPENDIX ON SOURCES OF INFORMATION, IS CAN BE OBTAINED AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING IN CENTRAL. THE PRICE IS *40.

"A COMPANION DOCUMENT, GUIDE TO ROCK AND SOIL DESCRIPTION (GEOGUIDE 3), WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE SHORTLY WHILE THE FIRST GEOGUIDE, GUIDE TO RETAINING WALL DESIGN (GEOGUIDE 1), PUBLISHED IN 1982, 18 BEING CONSIDERED FOR REVISION,” DR BRAND SAID.

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BID TO CURB KOWLOON CITY TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

* « » « »

THE POLICE WILL PLACE SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON PROMOTING ROAD SAFETY IN KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT THIS YEAR IN ORDER TO REDUCE TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS.

THE POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER FOR KOWLOON CITY, MRS WONG LEUNG KAM-SHAN, SAID THIS AT THE DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL HELD AT THE ARGYLE STREET PLAYGROUND THIS (SUNDAY) AFTERNOON.

/MRS WONG........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 198?

MRS WONG SAID THE NUMBER OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS IN KOWLOON CITY IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF THIS YEAR WAS THE HIGHEST IN THE KOWLOON REGION.

"IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS OF THIS YEAR, A TOTAL OF 9,023 TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS OCCURRED IN KOWLOON AND 836 OF THESE WERE IN KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT," MRS WONG SAID.

"AS MOST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS INVOLVE MOTORISTS AND PEDESTRIANS, THE POLICE, IN ADDITION TO STEPPING UP ENFORCEMENT ACTION AGAINST MOTORISTS, WILL EDUCATE PEDESTRIANS WHO DISREGARD THEIR OWN SAFETY AT ROAD CROSSINGS AND JAYWALKERS WILL FACE PROSECUTION."

IN ORDER TO PUT ACROSS THE ROAD SAFETY MESSAGE AND TO AROUSE THE PUBLIC CONCERN, A MONTH-LONG ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN WAS LAUNCHED LAST MONTH.

IT WAS AIMED AT THREE TARGET GROUPS: PEDESTRIANS WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON ELDERLY PEOPLE AND CHILDREN UNDER 14; MOTORISTS, PARTICULARLY YOUNG AND INEXPERIENCED DRIVERS; AND CYCLISTS.

A NUMBER OF ACTIVITIES WERE ORGANISED TO EDUCATE LOCAL RESIDENTS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF ROAD SAFETY. THESE INCLUDED BOOKMARK DESIGN AND DRAWING COMPETITIONS, VISITS TO THE SAU MAU PING ROAD SAFETY TOWN, VISITS TO SCHOOLS AND CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY TO DISSEMINATE ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES, AND SELECTION OF MODEL PEDESTRIANS AT TRAFFIC BLACKSPOTS.

TODAY’S ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL INCLUDED GAMESTALLS, A ROAD SAFETY EXHIBITION BUS, MOBILE ROAD SAFETY TOWN, ROAD SAFETY EXHIBITION, A PUBLICITY TOUR BUS AND DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLICITY MATERIALS.

THERE WERE ALSO DEMONSTRATIONS OF FOOT DRILL BY SCHOOL ROAD SAFETY PATROL TEAMS AND PERFORMANCES BY THE JUNIOR POLICE CALL ROTARY BAND.

THE DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL WAS SPONSORED BY THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD AND JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE POLICE.

ALSO OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WERE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR WONG SIK-KONG; DISTRICT OFFICER, MR ALEX FONG; HONORARY PRESIDENT OF THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE, MR LAM WAI-KUEN; AND THE CAMPAIGN CHAIRMAN, MR HUI IN-YING.

----o------

/8........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1987

- 8 -

SPECIAL STAMP ISSUE ON WEDNESDAY * » ♦ ♦

A SPECIAL SET OF FOUR STAMPS (50 CENTS, $1.30, $1.70 AND $5.0) FEATURING FOUR HISTORICAL CHINESE COSTUMES WILL BE ISSUED BY THE POST OFFICE ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18.

ALL POST OFFICES ARE EXPECTED TO BE CROWDED WITH CUSTOMERS ON THAT DAY. IN ORDER TO ASSIST THE PUBLIC TO TRANSACT NORMAL POSTAL BUSINESS, ADDITIONAL SPECIAL COUNTERS WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING OFFICES:

POST OFFICES ON HONG KONG ISLAND

GENERAL POST OFFICE, BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, CAUSEWAY BAY, HENNESSY ROAD, KING’S ROAD, MORRISON HILL, QUEEN’S ROAD, AND SHEUNG WAN.

POST OFFICES IN KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES

CHEUNG SHA WAN, GILLIES AVENUE, KOWLOON CENTRAL, KOWLOON CITY, KWUN TONG, MONG KOK, SHAM SHUI PO, TSIM SHA TSUI, AND TSUEN WING STREET.

EXTRA STAFF WILL BE ON DUTY AT MOST POST OFFICES ON WEDNESDAY. BUT QUEUES ARE, NEVERTHELESS, EXPECTED TO FORM AND THE PUBLIC ARE REQUESTED TO SHOW TOLERANCE AND, IF POSSIBLE, TO TRANSACT THEIR NORMAL POSTAL BUSINESS ON THE PRECEDING DAY OR THE DAY FOLLOWING THE DATE OF THE SPECIAL STAMP ISSUE.

-----------------0-------- LOWER TAR CIGARETTE DOMINATES MARKET ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ t

FIFTY-SEVEN PER CENT OF ALL BRANDS OF CIGARETTES WHICH WERE COMPLETELY SAMPLED AND TESTED BELONG TO THE LOW OR LOW-TO-MIDDLE TAR GROUP, ACCORDING TO THE LATEST REPORT OF "TAR AND NICOTINE YIELDS OF CIGARETTES” RELEASED BY THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (SUNDAY).

THE FIGURE FROM THE LAST SURVEY WAS 53 PER CENT.

HOWEVER, THE AVERAGE YIELD OF THE ADDICTIVE ELEMENT, NICOTINE, REMAINS SLIGHTLY HIGHER THAN THE AVERAGE YIELD OF THE LAST SIX SURVEYS, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.

/the latest........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 198?

THE LATEST REPORT SHOWS THAT THE AVERAGE NICOTINE YIELD FROM SAMPLES TESTED WAS 1.25 MG/CIG, AS COMPARED WITH AN AVERAGE OF 1.18 MG/CIG FROM THE PAST SIX REPORTS.

THE SURVEY WAS THE NINTH IN A SERIES OF CIGARETTES TESTS CONDUCTED BY THE GOVERNMENT CHEMIST EVERY SIX MONTHS.

THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT THE REGULAR RELEASE OF THIS TAR GROUP TEST RESULTS WAS NOT TO PROMOTE THE SALE OF THOSE LOWER TAR BRANDS, BUT TO REMIND THE PUBLIC OF THE HIGHER HEALTH RISK ASSOCIATED WITH SMOKING.

"ALTHOUGH THE LOWER THE TAR CONTENT, THE LOWER IS THE HEALTH RISK, A BETTER GUARANTEE OF HEALTH IS NOT TO SMOKE AT ALL," HE SAID.

------o-------

TAI PO RESIDENTS URGED TO KEEP DISTRICT CLEAN * « * « »

THE TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICER, MR JOHN BURRETT, THIS (SUNDAY) AFTERNOON URGED TAI PO RESIDENTS TO HELP KEEP THE DISTRICT CLEAN.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE DISTRICT’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN HELD AT THE TAI PO PLAYGROUND, MR BURRETT SAID IT WAS EASY TO SUPPORT THE CAMPAIGN BY NOT LITTERING AND SIMPLY PLACING RUBBISH IN LITTER BINS.

AFTER THE CEREMONY, A DECORATED LORRY BEARING THE SLOGAN "CLEAN HONG KONG" AND PAINTINGS DEPICTING TAI PO NEW TOWN AND ITS FRINGE AREAS, THE TOLO HIGHWAY CYCLE TRACK AND MARICULTURE ZONES, LEFT THE PLAYGROUND FOR A DISTRICT TOUR.

LITTER BAGS AND PUBLICITY MATERIALS SUCH AS BOOKMARKS AND BALLOONS WERE GIVEN OUT TO RESIDENTS WHEN THE VEHICLE CALLED AT TAI PO MARKET, TAI YUEN ESTATE, FU SHIN ESTATE, KWONG FUK ESTATE AND VARIOUS VILLAGES.

THE THEME SONG OF THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN WAS ALSO BROADCAST BY THE VEHICLE, REMINDING THE PUBLIC THAT "WE ARE PITCHING IN TO KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN".

AS PART OF THE OPENING DAY’S ACTIVITIES, A YOUTH RALLY WAS HELD IN THE PLAYGROUND BY THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

THE RALLY INCLUDED TELEMATCH GAMES DESIGNED BY THE DEPARTMENT TO CONVEY THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN MESSAGE, AND A PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY FOR THE "TURNING LITTER INTO ORNAMENTAL/DECORAT1VE ITEMS COMPETITION".

/the rally........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1987

10 -

' THE RALLY ATTRACTED ABOUT 1,000 PARTICIPANTS.

TODAY’S OPENING CEREMONY WAS ORGANISED BY THE WORKING GROUP ON THE DISTRICT’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN, WITH ASSISTANCE FROM THE DISTRICT OFFICE.

ALSO OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY WERE A REGIONAL COUNCIL MEMBER, MR TANG PUI-TAK; TAI PO RURAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR HO YUNG-SANG, AND SAI KUNG NORTH RURAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR LAM PAK-PING.

-----o------

EIGHT BRAVE CITIZENS HONOURED

*****

EIGHT YOUNG MONG KOK RESIDENTS WERE TODAY (SUNDAY) COMMENDED FOR THEIR BRAVE DEEDS IN ASSISTING THE POLICE IN FIGHTING CRIME.

RECIPIENTS OF THE GOOD CITIZEN AWARDS INCLUDED SEVEN MEN AND ONE WOMAN AGED BETWEEN 21 AND 39 YEARS OLD.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE MONG KOK DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL AND THE AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY AT MACPHERSON PLAYGROUND, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, MR JACOB CHAN, SAID THEIR BRAVERY AND ALERTNESS DESERVED THE HIGHEST RESPECT FROM THE COMMUNITY.

MR CHAN ALSO URGED PARTICIPANTS TO VISIT THE EXHIBITION ON ANTI-TRIAD SOCIETY INFORMATION AT THE CARNIVAL VENUE TO TAKE NOTE OF THE EXTENT OF HARM AND DAMAGE CAUSED BY TRIAD ELEMENTS.

"I HOPE RESIDENTS WILL CO-OPERATE WITH THE POLICE AND TAKE EFFECTIVE MEASURES TO COMBAT TRIAD ACTIVITIES," HE SAID.

ALSO OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY WERE LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MRS ROSANNA TAM, MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR CHOW CHUN-FAI, AND DISTRICT OFFICER, MRS BRENDA FUNG.

TODAY’S CARNIVAL WAS ORGANISED BY THE MONG KOK DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE AND THE MONG KOK DISTRICT POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS OFFICE.

PARTICIPANTS HAD MUCH FUN AND EXCITEMENT AT THE GAMESTALLS AND WERE ENTERTAINED BY THE PERFORMANCES OF POPULAR SINGERS AND TELEVISION ARTISTES.

- 0 -

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1987

- 11 -

FIRST KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL A SUCCESS

* « » * »

MEMBERS OF THE GUANGDONG WOMEN’S FOOTBALL TEAM DEMONSTRATED THEIR SKILL IN A MATCH AGAINST A KWAI TSING TEAM AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF THE FIRST KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL TODAY (SUNDAY).

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SPORTS FESTIVAL, MR CHENG WING-CHUN, SAID HE APPRECIATED THE SUPPORT GIVEN BY THE GUANGDONG SPORTS ASSOCIATION AND HE ALSO PRAISED KWAI TSING RESIDENTS WHO HELPED IN ORGANISING ACTIVITIES.

THE SPORTS FESTIVAL CAME TO A CLOSE AFTER A SUCCESSFUL MONTH-LONG PROGRAMME IN WHICH RESIDENTS OF ALL AGES TOOK PART.

OFFICIATING AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY WERE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG; KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BRIAN COAK; AND DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR HO TUNG-CHING.

THE PRESIDENT OF THE HONG KONG FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION, MR HENRY FOK, ALSO ATTENDED.

AS PART OF THE DAY’S ACTIVITIES A FOOTBALL MATCH WAS HELD BETWEEN DISTRICT SCHOOL PRINCIPALS AND KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS.

--------o ----------

KWUN TONG WORKERS SHARE TELEMATCH FUN * « » t *

SOME 200 KWUN TONG WORKERS ENJOYED AN AFTERNOON OF ACTION AT A TELEMATCH FUN DAY HELD AT THE KOWLOON BAY RECREATION GROUND TODAY (SUNDAY).

THE EVENT WAS PRESENTED BY THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL '87 IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE INDUSTRIAL AREA BRANCH OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS PROMOTION ASSOCIATION.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDDY CHAN, SAID THE FUN DAY GAVE WORKERS FROM DIFFERENT ESTABLISHMENTS AN OPPORTUNITY TO GET ACQUAINTED AND TO ESTABLISH TIES.

MR CHAN PAID TRIBUTE TO THE INDUSTRIAL AREA BRANCH OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS PROMOTION ASSOCIATION FOR INITIATING THE FUNCTION AS WELL AS FOR PRESENTING A VARIETY OF RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS PROGRAMMES FOR WORKERS DURING THEIR LEISURE HOURS.

TEN TEAMS PARTICIPATED IN THE FIVE FUN GAMES. TROPHIES WERE AWARDED TO WINNING TEAMS.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 19R7

- 12 -

WARNING ON BOGUS LABOUR OFFICIALS t ♦ ♦

THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS REMINDED EMPLOYERS TO BE ON THEIR GUARD AGAINST IMPOSTORS.

THE REMINDER FOLLOWS COMPLAINTS BY EMPLOYERS WHO HAD RECEIVED TELEPHONE CALLS FROM PEOPLE CLAIMING TO BE OFFICERS FROM THE DEPARTMENT.

THE CALLERS CLAIMED THEY WERE CONDUCTING AN EMPLOYMENT SURVEY AND ASKED FOR PARTICULARS OF THE EMPLOYERS’ FACTORIES OR FIRMS.

EMPLOYERS WHO RECEIVED SUCH TELEPHONE CALLS IN THE FUTURE SHOULD CHECK IMMEDIATELY WITH THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, A SPOKESMAN SAID.

HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT WHEN MAKING VISITS EVERY OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT CARRIED A GOVERNMENT IDENTITY CARD AND A WARRANT BEARING HIS PHOTOGRAPH AND NAME.

’’STAFF OF THE FACTORY AND LABOUR INSPECTORATES ARE INSTRUCTED TO IDENTIFY THEMSELVES BY PRODUCING THEIR WARRANTS WHEN VISITING FACTORIES," HE SAID.

"IF IN DOUBT, EMPLOYERS SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT THE DEPARTMENT OR REPORT TO THE NEAREST POLICE STATION," HE ADDED.

--------0-----------

COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS POLICIES ON DEMOLISHING ILLEGAL STRUCTURES t * ♦ » *

MEMBERS OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT AND WORKS COMMITTEE WILL EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS ON GOVERNMENT POLICIES ON DEMOLITION OF ILLEGAL STRUCTURES AT A MEETING ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17).

AT THE MEETING, A STRUCTURAL ENGINEER OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, MR ROBERT GARTAN, WILL BRIEF MEMBERS ON THE CONTROL OF UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS.

A SENIOR HOUSING MANAGER OF THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT, MR LAI WING-KIN, WILL EXPLAIN THE REHOUSING ARRANGEMENTS FOR ROOFTOP SQUATTERS RENDERED HOMELESS BY ENFORCEMENT ACTION OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT.

/OTHER ITEMS .......

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15. 1987

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE REPORTS ON THE TAI PO ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL WORKING GROUP AND THE MINOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT AND WORKS COMMITTEE OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD AT 10 AM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD, 3/F, TAI PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE, 152 KWONG FUK ROAD.

- 0 -

PRESS CONFERENCE ON 1988 HK INTERNATIONAL MARATHON

*****

THE 1988 HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL MARATHON, JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS AND THE HONG KONG AMATEUR ATHLETIC ASSOICATION, WILL BE HELD ON THE ISLAND EASTERN CORRIDOR ON JANUARY 24.

DETAILS OF THE SUNDAY MARATHON WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD AT THE GIS PRESS CONFERENCE ROOM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17), BEGINNING AT 3.30 PM.

ATTENDING WILL BE THE COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, MR GARETH MULLOY; ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MRS AGNES ALLCOCK; RACE DIRECTOR OF THE 1988 HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL MARATHON, MR JAMIE SCOTT; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG AMATEUR ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION, MR WILLIAM KO.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE 1988 HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL MARATHON PRESS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD AT THE GIS PRESS CONFERENCE ROOM ON 5/F, BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, HONG KONG, ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17). IT WILL BEGIN AT 3.30 PM.

- 0 -

/14

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1987

SHORTAGE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL PLACES ON DB AGENDA

» » » » ♦

A PAPER OUTLINING SHORT AND LONG-TERM MEASURES TO SOLVE THE SHORTAGE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL PLACES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WILL BE TABLED FOR DISCUSSION AT THE SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE OF THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17).

SENIOR EDUCATION OFFICER (TAI PO AND NORTH), MR LIU TSO-TIM, WILL BRIEF MEMBERS ON THE PAPER WHICH REFERS TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF SIX SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT BY 1993, AMONG OTHER PROJECTS.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS PROGRESS ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NORTH DISTRICT HOSPITAL AND PROVISION OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES IN TIN PING ESTATE, SHEUNG SHUl.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17), STARTING AT 2.30 PM TN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE, JOCKEY CLUB ROAD, FANLING.

- - 0

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS GUIDELINES ON USE OF FUNDS

* * ♦ * »

THE RECREATION, SPORTS AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17) TO DISCUSS CHANGES IN THE GUIDELINES ON THE USE OF FUNDS BY DISTRICT BOARDS FOR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT PROJECTS.

REPORTS ON COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES FOR THE DISTRICT ORGANISED BY GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS IN NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER WILL ALSO BE TABLED AT THE MEETING.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S RECREATION, SPORTS AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 17) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD SECRETARIAT, 3/F, TAJ PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE, 152 KWONG FUK ROAD. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.

/15

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1987

VILLAGE HOUSES TO BE BUILT ON TSING YI ♦ » * » »

A TOTAL OF 40 THREE-STOREY VILLAGE HOUSES WILL BE BUILT AT FUNG SHUE WO, TSING YI, FOR HOUSE OWNERS PREVIOUSLY MOVED FROM THE AREA NEARBY TO MAKE WAY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TOWN CENTRE.

OTHER FACILITIES IN THE PROJECT WILL INCLUDE A BASKETBALL COURT, A REFUSE COLLECTION POINT AND A CARPARKING AREA.

THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE WORK WHICH IS EXPECTED TO START IN NEXT JANUARY AND BE COMPLETED IN MARCH 1989.

TENDERS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY NOON ON DECEMBER 4

PEDESTRIAN/CYCLE BRIDGE FOR YUEN LONG * t ♦

A PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLE BRIDGE WILL BE BUILT OVER THE SOUTHERN PART OF THE CENTRAL NULLAH IN YUEN LONG NEW TOWN.

TENDERS FOR THE PROJECT ARE BEING INVITED BY THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT.

A TDD CHIEF ENGINEER, MR D.N. MUDD, SAID THE WORK ALSO INCLUDED THE CONSTRUCTION OF FENCING ALONG THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT RESERVE BETWEEN TUEN MUN AND YUEN LONG.

THE PROJECT IS SCHEDULED TO START IN FEBRUARY AND TAKE ABOUT 15 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.

’’WHEN COMPLETED, THE PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLE BRIDGE WILL PROVIDE

CONVENIENT ACCESS ACROSS THE YUEN LONG NULLAH FOR THE FUTURE

POPULATION BUILD-UP OF THE SOUTHERN PART OF YUEN LONG NEW TOWN. THE FENCING WORK ALONG THE LRT RESERVE IS PART OF THE SEGREGATION

MEASURES TO ISOLATE THE RESERVE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE FOR SAFETY

REASONS,” MR MUDD SAID.

DEADLINE FOR THE SUBMISSION OF TENDERS IS DECEMBER 4.

- 0 -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

GOVT GETTING ON TOP OE SQUATTER PROBLEM................... 1

GOVERNOR VISITS EASTERN DISTRICT ......................... 2

AG LEAVES CN PROMOTION TOUR............................... 4

ONE-WAY TOLL FOR LION ROCK TUNNEL TO START NEXT MONDAY ..... 5

OFFICERS UNDERGOING SEARCH AND RESCUE TRAINING ........... 6

MDAC REVIEWS RENAL FACILITIES ............................ 6

APPLICATIONS FOR NEW GREEN MINIBUS ROUTES CLOSED ......... 8

TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING TOMORROW ............ 9

TALKS ON COMMODITY CODE COMPLETED ........................ 9

SHAM SHU I PO DISTRICT FESTIVAL BEGINS .................. 10

YAU TSIM DISTRICT FESTIVAL CLOSES TODAY ................. 11

HOT-LINE ON BN(O) PASSPORT .............................. 11

FACTORIES FINED FOR EMPLOYMENT BREACHES ................. 12

LAND TO BE RESUMED FOR FANLING DEVELOPMENT....,.......... 12

MORE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES FOR SHEUNG WAN ............. 15

TATE'S CAIRN TUNNEL PROJECT UPDATE FOR DB ............... 14

DB COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER PROPOSED USE OF NEW TERMINUS... 1^

"MEET-THE-PUBLIC" SCHEME ON DB AGENDA ................... 15

FREE BUILDING MANAGEMENT COURSE IN MONG KOK ............. 15

COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS FUND APPLICATIONS................. 16

WATER STORAGE FIGURE..................................... 16

WATER CUTS IN TUEN MUN, MONG KOK ........................ 17

TEMPORARY LANE CLOSURESON TAI PO RO J) .................. 17

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

GOVT GETTING ON TOP OF SQUATTER PROBLEM * t t t t

THE GOVERNMENT IS NOW GETTING ON TOP OF THE PROBLEM OF SQUATTER AREAS AND IT IS HOPED THAT THIS PROBLEM WILL HAVE BEEN DEALT WIXH IN A FEW YEARS’ TIME, THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AT THE END OF A VISIT TO EASTERN DISTRICT, SIR DAVID SAID IT WOULD BE POSSIBLE TO MOVE PEOPLE OUT OF THE SQUTTER AREAS INTO NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS.

HE ADDED THAT HE WAS IMPRESSED BY THE MODERN BUILDINGS, FROM THE MIDDLE CLASS HOUSING LIKE TAI KOO SHING, ITS SHOPPING PLAZA AND THE ENORMOUS IMPROVEMENT IN TRANSPORT IN EASTERN DISTRICT.

HE SAID : ”1 CAME BY THE MTR. THAT’S A VERY EFFICIENT AND VERY QUICK WAY OF TRAVELLING. THAT TRANSPORT IMPROVEMENT MEANS THAT THIS AREA IS GOING TO DEVELOP VERY RAPIDLY OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS AS A RESIDENTIAL AREA.”

SIR DAVID SAID HE WAS ALSO IMPRESSED BY THE HARD WORK OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD IN CREATING A SENSE OF COMMUNITY WITH THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL WHICH STARTED YESTERDAY.

’’THAT, I AM SURE, IS VERY IMPORTANT TO CREATE THE SENSE OF COMMUNITY WHICH YOU GET BOTH AT THE DISTRICT BOARD LEVEL AND IN THINGS LIKE THE MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES WHICH I HAVE ALSO BEEN VISITING THIS AFTERNOON,” HE NOTED.

ASKED TO COMMENT ON THE PROGRESS OF INVESTIGATION BY THE POLICE INTO THE BOMB INCIDENT IN TAI KOO SHING, SIR DAVID SAID IT WOULD BE MORE SATISFACTORY IF THE POLICE HAD DISCOVERED WHO WAS RESPONSIBLE.

"IT WAS AN HORRENDOUS THING TO DO TO SET OFF A BOMB IN AN AREA WHERE INNOCENT PEOPLE WERE WALKING AROUND WITH CHILDREN. THE LAST OF THE PEOPLE INJURED, ONE CHILD, HAS ONLY NOW JUST COME OUT OF HOSPITAL.”

NOTING THAT THE AUTHORITIES HAD NOT MANAGED TO FIND THE CULPRIT, SIR DAVID SAID THE POLICE BELIEVED THAT IT WAS THE WORK OF A CRANK.

”1 ONLY HOPE THAT THAT CRANK WOULD NOT TRY TO DO THE SAME THING AGAIN,” HE NOTED.

HE ADDED THAT THE POLICE HAD INVESTIGATED A LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE, BUT THEY HAD NOT MANAGED TO PIN THE BLAME FOR THIS ON ANYBODY IN A WAY WHICH HAD ALLOWED THEM TO PUT FORWARD CHARGES.

/IN REPLY

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 198?

- 2

IN REPLY TO A QUESTION ON THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT ON THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT, SIR DAVID SAID HE WOULD BE WAITING FOR THE DEBATE TN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY.

"THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL WILL BE TAKING DECISIONS ON THE WHOLE OF THIS QUESTION OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS, AND INDEED MONTHS, BECAUSE THE WHITE PAPER DOESN’T COME OUT TILL THE BEGINNING OF FEBRUARY.

"BUT THE NEXT STAGE IS, WE SHALL BE LISTENING WITH GREAT INTEREST TO WHAT IS SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY," HE SAID.

-------o----------

GOVERNOR VISITS EASTERN DISTRICT

» » »

MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN EASTERN DISTRICT WOULD PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE HOUSING FOR ABOUT 120,000 PEOPLE IN THE NEXT TEN YEARS, THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON WERE TOLD DURING THEIR VISIT TO THE DISTRICT TODAY (MONDAY).

THESE INCLUDED THE CLEARANCE OF SQUATTER VILLAGES AT SHAU KEI WAN FOOTHILLS TO MAKE WAY FOR PUBLIC HOUSING PROGRAMMES, THE RECLAMATION OF THE EXISTING ALDRICH BAY TYPHOON SHELTER AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME AND PUBLIC HOUSING AT SIU SAI WAN .

THE GOVERNOR LEARNT THAT THESE DEVELOPMENTS WOULD BENEFIT MORE PEOPLE AND IMPROVE THE LIVING STANDARDS OF THOSE RESIDING IN LESS FAVOURABLE ENVIRONMENTS.

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A DISTRICT VISIT SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON HAD TRAVELLED BY MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY TO THE DISTRICT.

ACCOMPANIED BY THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR T.H. CHAU, THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON TOOK THE TRAIN FROM ADMIRALTY STATION TO TAI KOO STATION WHERE THEY WERE MET BY DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR SHUM CHOI-SANG, AND DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GARY YEUNG.

FROM TAI KOO STATION, THEY WALKED THROUGH THE CITYPLAZA BEFORE PROCEEDING TO THE KORNHILL RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT BY CAR.

WHILE TAKING A PANORAMIC VIEW OF KORNHILL FROM THE ROOFTOP OF THE KORNHILL RECREATION CLUB, SIR DAVID WAS BRIEFED BY REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION AND HANG LUNG REAL ESTATE AGENCIES LTD. ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE HOUSING PROJECT.

/HE WAS

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

HE WAS TOLD THAT KORNHILL HAD A TOTAL OF 42 RESIDENTIAL BLOCKS

OF MEDIUM-SIZED FLATS WHICH ACCOMMODATED MORE THAN 35,000 PEOPLE.

EASTERN DISTRICT HAS A POPULATION OF ABOUT 500,000 OF WHICH 65 PER CENT LIVE IN PRIVATE BUILDINGS.

SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON THEN PROCEEDED TO FA YUEN VILLAGE IN SHAU KEI WAN FOOTHILLS (WEST) SQUATTER AREA WHERE THEY WERE MET BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF HOUSING, MR LAU PO-CHI, WHO BRIEFED THEM ON THE SQUATTER AREA IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS TN THE VILLAGE.

THE IMPROVEMENT WORKS INCLUDED INSTALLATION OF SOME 100 STREET LIGHTS, EIGHT REFUSE COLLECTION POINTS AND FOUR TOILETS. FOOTPATHS AND DRAINAGE SYSTEMS WERE ALSO IMPROVED TO ACHIEVE A BETTER STANDARD OF LIVING FOR THE VILLAGERS.

THE GOVERNOR LEARNT THAT FA YUEN VILLAGE IS ONE OF THE 13 SQUATTER VILLAGES IN SHAU KEI WAN FOOTHILLS AND HAS A TOTAL POPULATION OF 2,200.

THE VILLAGE IS SCHEDULED FOR CLEARANCE IN OCTOBER 1988 UNDER THE SHAU KEI WAN FOOTHILLS (WEST) CLEARANCE PHASE I PROGAMME WHICH WILL BE CO-ORDINATED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE AND MONITORED BY A SPECIAL WORKING GROUP OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD.

CLEARANCE OF ALL THE SHAU KEI WAN FOOTHILL VILLAGES WILL BE COMPLETED IN 1990 TO PROVIDE LAND FOR PUBLIC HOUSING FOR 36,000 PEOPLE.

SIR DAVID ALSO MET THE CHAIRMAN OF THE FA YUEN VILLAGE MUTUAL AID COMMITTEE, MR YUEN KAM-CHUNG, WHO EXPLAINED THE WORK OF THE COMMITTEE AND ITS EFFORTS IN FOSTERING A SENSE OF NEIGHBOURLINESS AMONG THE VILLAGERS.

THE GOVERNOR THEN VISITED A HOUSEHOLD OPPOSITE TO THE MAC OFFICE.

THE PARTY NEXT PROCEEDED TO ALDRICH BAY TYPHOON SHELTER WHERE SOME 250 FISHING VESSELS AND 114 DWELLING BOATS ARE MOORED.

THE GOVERNOR WAS BRIEFED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GARY YEUNG, ON THE NEW TYPHOON SHELTER PROJECT AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF PROPER SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM.

UPON COMPLETION OF THE NEW TYPHOON SHELTER, ALDRICH BAY WOULD BE RECLAIMED TO FORM 17 HECTARES OF LAND TO ACCOMMODATE SOME 40,000 PEOPLE IN BOTH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS.

STR DAVID THEN BOARDED A FISH PACKING BOAT WHERE THE OPERATOR, MR YEUNG YUNG, SHOWED THE PARTY HOW FISH WERE PACKED FOR EXPORT TO JAPAN.

/THE GOVERNOR .......

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

THE GOVERNOR LATER CALLED ON THE HONG KONG SOCIETY FOR THE AGED MULTI-SERVICE CENTRE IN YUE WAN ESTATE.

THE CENTRE PROVIDES A VARIETY OF SERVICES SUCH AS HOME-HELP, COUNSELLING, FOOD AND LAUNDRY SERVICES TO ELDERLY IN THE DISTRICT.

THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON WATCHED SOME ELDERLY PEOPLE TOOK PART IN ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY THE CENTRE, AND WERE PRESENTED TWO HAND-MADE CUSHIONS AS SOUVENIR.

BEFORE CONCLUDING THE VISIT, SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON ATTENDED A TEA RECEPTION AT YUE WAN COMMUNITY HALL WHERE THEY MET EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS.

------o-------

AG LEAVES ON PROMOTION TOUR * * » t

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR MICHAEL THOMAS, WILL BE LEAVING FOR NEW YORK TOMORROW (TUESDAY) AFTERNOON ON AN OFFICIAL VISIT TO TALK ABOUT HONG KONG’S LEGAL SYSTEM.

HIS EIGHT-DAY VISIT WILL TAKE HIM TO NEW YORK, BOSTON, LONDON AND PARIS FOR MEETINGS WITH LEGAL EXPERTS AS WELL AS REPRESENTATIVES OF MAJOR FINANCIAL AND BANKING INSTITUTIONS.

MR THOMAS WAS ASKED BY THE GOVERNOR TO STEP IN AS A REPLACEMENT FOR THE FORMER JUSTICE OF APPEAL, MR SIMON LI, WHO WAS ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED TO GO ON THE VISIT, AND WHO HAD WITHDRAWN FOR PERSONAL REASONS.

WHILE IN NEW YORK, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL WILL BE ADDRESSING THE CONSULAR LAW SOCIETY WHOSE MEMBERSHIP CONSISTS OF MEMBERS OF THE BAR INVOLVED WITH MATTERS RELATING TO CONSULAR AND DIPLOMATIC LAW, LEGAL DEVELOPMENTS TN THE FIELD OF INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC AND PRIVATE LAW AND THE CONFLICTS OF LAW, OR WHO REPRESENT FOREIGN CONSULAR OR DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS.

HIS ENGAGEMENTS IN BOSTON WILL INCLUDE SPEAKING TO THE HARVARD LAW SCHOOL EAST ASIAN LEGAL STUDIES PROGRAMME AND THE BOSTON BAR ASSOCIATION. IN PARIS, MR THOMAS WILL MEET SENIOR OFFICERS OF THE ROTHSCHILDS BANK.

HIS SPEECHES WILL FOCUS ON HONG KONG’S LEGAL SYSTEM AND ITS FUTURE.

MR THOMAS WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON NOVEMBER 25. DURING HIS ABSENCE, THE CROWN SOLICITOR, MR JEREMY MATHEWS, WILL BE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL.

-------0-----

/5........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

' ONE-WAY TOLL FOR LION ROCK » »

TUNNEL TO START NEXT MONDAY

* « *

FROM THE EARLY MORNING OF NEXT MONDAY (NOVEMBER 23), NO TOLL WILL BE CHARGED FOR ALL KOWLOON-BOUND VEHICLES USING THE LION ROCK TUNNEL BUT THOSE TRAVELLING TO SHA TIN VIA THE TUNNEL WILL HAVE TO PAY A TOLL OF $6.

ANNOUNCING THIS TODAY (MONDAY), A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE ONE-WAY NO TOLL EXPERIMENT IS SCHEDULED TO LAST FOUR WEEKS, FROM 3 AM NEXT MONDAY TO 3 AM ON DECEMBER 21.

THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL DECIDED LAST MONTH TO CARRY OUT THE EXPERIMENT TO ASSESS WHETHER TRAFFIC FLOW THROUGH THE TUNNEL CAN BE IMPROVED.

UNDER THE SCHEME, SOME OF THE TOLL BOOTHS ON THE SOUTHBOUND TUNNEL WILL BE CLOSED AND TRAFFIC WILL BE CHANNELLED TO THE TUNNEL PORTAL.

"THIS WILL REDUCE THE PRESENT MERGING PROBLEM IN THE TUNNEL PLAZA, THEREBY ENSURING SMOOTH TRAFFIC FLOW INTO THE TUNNEL. MOTORISTS ARE ADVISED TO FOLLOW ADVISORY SIGNS PUT UP IN THE PLAZA AREA AS WELL AS ON THE TUNNEL APPROACH ROADS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

HE URGED MOTORISTS TO DRIVE WITH CARE ESPECIALLY WHEN ENTERING THE TOLL BOOTHS WHICH WILL NOT BE REMOVED DURING THE EXPERIMENT.

A GOVERNMENT WORKING GROUP COMPRISING REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE TRANSPORT BRANCH, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, THE POLICE, THE CONSULTANT STUDYING OPTIONS TO RELIEVE CONGESTION AT THE LION ROCK TUNNEL AND OTHER CONCERNED GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS HAS BEEN SET UP TO MONITOR THE TRAFFIC SITUATION ON THE ROAD NETWORK AFFECTED BY THE EXPERIMENT.

"IF SEVERE TRAFFIC CONGESTION OCCURS, THE EXPERIMENT WILL BE DISCONTINUED AT ANY TIME AND THE PUBLIC WILL BE NOTIFIED THROUGH THE MEDIA," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT AND THE CONSULTANT WILL EVALUATE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE EXPERIMENT. IT IS EXPECTED THAT PRELIMINARY FINDINGS WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL EARLY NEXT YEAR.

- - 0 -

MONDAY, NOVEMBER IB, 1987

* OFFICERS UNDERGOING SEARCH AND RESCUE TRAINING

* * * » »

THIRTY-THREE OFFICERS FROM FOUR GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS WILL FROM TODAY (MONDAY) UNDERGO AN INTENSIVE TRAINING COURSE IN SEARCH AND RESCUE.

FOUR U.S. COAST GUARD OFFICERS ARE IN HONG KONG TO CONDUCT THE TWO-WEEK TRAINING COURSE WHICH WILL COVER ALL STANDARD PROCEDURES IN SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS.

THOSE UNDERGOING TRAINING INCLUDE FIVE OFFICERS FROM THE MARINE DEPARTMENT, FIVE FROM THE CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT, SIX FROM THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE AND 17 FROM THE MARINE POLICE. THREE REPRESENTATIVES FROM CHINA, WHO HAVE RESPONSIBILITIES IN SEARCH AND RESCUE, ARE ALSO PARTICIPATING.

THE TRAINING COURSE, WHICH IS ORGANISED BY THE MARINE DEPARTMENT, IS THE SECOND SUCH COURSE CONDUCTED IN HONG KONG. THE FIRST WAS HELD IN 1985 AND A TOTAL OF 24 OFFICERS FROM FOUR GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND THREE CHINESE REPRESENTATIVES ATTENDED.

MDAC REVIEWS RENAL FACILITIES

I » » »

THE CONTINUOUS AMBULATORY PERITONEAL DIALYSIS (CAPD) PROGRAMME SHOULD BE EXPANDED AS AN ALTERNATIVE MODE OF TREATMENT FOR END-STAGE RENAL FAILURE PATIENTS TO COMPLEMENT THE CONVENTIONAL HEAMODIALYSIS TREATMENT, IN THE LIGHT OF EXPERIENCE ON CAPD GAINED OVER THE YEARS BOTH LOCALLY AND OVERSEAS.

THIS WAS THE RECOMMENDATION MADE BY THE MEDICAL DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (MDAC) AT A MEETING TODAY (MONDAY) WHEN IT REVIEWED THE TREATMENT FACILITIES AND POLICY FOR END-STAGE RENAL FAILURE.

THE COMMITTER NOTED THAT THE PROVISION OF HAEMODIALYSIS TREATMENT WAS CONSTRAINED TO SOME EXTENT BY THE RATE AT WHICH NEW MACHINES COULD BE PURCHASED AND INSTALLED.

SINCE NEW MACHINES WERE ALSO TIED TO THE COMPLETION OF NEW HOSPITAL OR CLINIC PROJECTS, THE MEMBERS FELT THAT ALTERNATIVE FACILITIES IN THE FORM OF CAPD WOULD HAVE TO BE MADE AVAILABLE FOR RENAL PATIENTS.

THE MEETING WAS INFORMED THAT CAPD WAS MORE FLEXIBLE IN ITS APPLICATION AND REQUIRED LESS IN CAPITAL AND OPERATING COSTS, AND THAT CAPD PATIENTS WERE ALSO LESS DEPENDENT ON INSTITUTIONAL FACILITIES.

/HOWEVER, MEMBERS

MONDAY, NOVIXBER 16, 1987

HOWEVER, MEMBERS ALSO NOTED THAT THERE WERE LIMITATIONS TO ITS USE AND NOT ALL PATIENTS COULD BE PUT ON THIS FORM OF TREATMENT; HENCE THEY AGREED THAT CAPD WAS A USEFUL COMPLEMENT TO HAEMODIALYSIS FACILITIES BUT COULD NOT REPLACE THE LATTER ENTIRELY.

ON DEMAND FOR THE DIALYSIS PROGRAMME, IT IS ESTIMATED THAT 45 NEW PATIENTS PER MILLION POPULATION WILL NEED TO BE ADMITTED TO THE PROGRAMME EACH YEAR.

THE CURRENT RATE OF INTAKE IS ABOUT 35 NEW PATIENTS PER MILLION POPULATION PER YEAR.

IN ORDER TO MEET THE TARGET OF PROVIDING FACILITIES FOR THE ESTIMATED NEW PATIENTS, IT IS PROPOSED THAT 40 NEW PATIENTS PER MILLION SHOULD BE ACCEPTED INTO THE DIALYSIS PROGRAMME IN 1988, RISING TO 45 PER MILLION IN 1989.

THE MDAC NOTED THAT THE NUMBER OF END-STAGE RENAL FAILURE PATIENTS FOR WHOM PROVISION SHOULD BE MADE WILL INCREASE FROM ABOUT 550 AT PRESENT TO ABOUT 2,400 IN 1996.

IT IS ESTIMATED THAT OF THE 2,400 PATIENTS, ABOUT 900 WILL RECEIVE HAEMODIALYSIS TREATMENT AND 1,500 WILL TAKE UP CAPD. THE TOTAL ESTIMATED COST WILL BE OVER $193 MILLION, AS COMPARED WITH THE CURRENT EXPENDITURE OF *62 MII ILION.

AT PRESENT, THERE ARE 90 HAEMODIALYSIS MACHINES AND ANOTHER 138 WILL BE PROVIDED BY 1995.

DURING THE MEETING, MEMBERS AGREED THAT THE BEST FORM OF TREATMENT FOR END-STAGE RENAL PATIENTS IS KIDNEY TRANSPLANTATION.

SINCE THE FIRST TRANSPLANT IN 1969, ONLY ABOUT 210 OPERATIONS HAVE BEEN PERFORMED IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS.

THE MEETING URGED THAT MORE PROMOTIONAL EFFORTS SHOULD BE MADE TO AROUSE PUBLIC AWARENESS ON KIDNEY DONATION.

HOWEVER, MEMBERS WERE GRATIFIED TO NOTE THAT ABOUT 70 PER CENT OF THE TRANSPLANTS WERE PERFORMED IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS AND THAT THE FIGURES FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 1987 WERE PARTICULARLY ENCOURAGING WITH 28 TRANSPLANTS CARRIED OUT.

TURNING TO MANPOWER REQUIREMENT FOR THE RENAL SERVICE, THE MEETING ADVISED THAT IN VIEW OF THE SHIFT OF EMPHASIS TO CAPD TREATMENT IN FUTURE AND THE EXPANSION IN THIS SERVICE, THE STAFF PLANNING RATIO FOR DOCTORS AND NURSES FOR THE RENAL UNITS RECOMMENDED BY THE CENTRAL RENAL COMMITTEE SHOULD BE ADOPTED.

FOR DOCTORS, THE PLANNING RATIO IS ONE DOCTOR TO 30 RENAL PATIENTS RECEIVING LONG-TERM REPLACEMENT THERAPY.

/FOR HOSPITAL .......

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

FOR HOSPITAL NURSES, THE RATIO IS ONE REGISTERED NURSE TO TWO BEDS FOR PERITONEAL/RENAL DIALYSIS.

IN THE SATELLITE DIALYSIS CENTRES WITH SIX MACHINES EACH, THE PLANNING RATIO WILL BE ONE NURSING OFFICER II AND 10 REGISTERED NURSES.

FOR THE CAPD PROGRAMME, THE MEETING AGREED THAT A STAFF RATIO OF ONE REGISTERED NURSE TO 15 CAPD PATIENTS BE RECOMMENDED.

-----0------

APPLICATIONS FOR NEW GREEN MINIBUS ROUTES CLOSED

*****

A TOTAL OF 40 APPLICATIONS HAD BEEN RECEIVED FOR OPERATING THE 18 NEW GREEN MINIBUS ROUTES IN THE TERRITORY WHEN THE INVITATION CLOSED ON NOVEMBER 6, A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

’’ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL BE INVITED TO ATTEND A PRELIMINARY INTERVIEW WITHIN THE NEXT TWO WEEKS,” HE SAID.

AMONG THE 18 NEW ROUTES, THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER ARE THOSE SERVING SHA TIN AND WONG TAI SIN. THESE INCLUDE THOSE WHICH WILL OPERATE BETWEEN JULIMOUNT GARDEN AND SHA TIN KCR STATION, VILLA DE JARDIN/GREENWOOD GARDEN AND SHA TIN KCR STATION, CHUK YUEN NORTH ESTATE AND WONG TAI SIN MTR STATION, AND A CIRCULAR ROUTE FROM LOK FU TO TUNG TAU.

THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT A SELECTION BOARD COMPRISING NON-GOVERNMENT MEMBER OF THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND OFFICIALS FROM THE TRANSPORT AND OTHER RELEVANT GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS WILL MEET AND SELECT THE APPLICANTS ON THE BASIS OF THE ESTABLISHED CRITERIA LAID DOWN BY THE BOARD.

“THESE CRITERIA INCLUDE EXPERIENCE OF THE APPLICANT IN TRANSPORT SERVICE, FINANCIAL RESOURCES, MANAGEMENT RIGHT OVER THE VEHICLES, MAINTENANCE RECORD OF THE VEHICLES AS WELL AS THE QUALITY OF HIS VEHICLES TO BE DEPLOYED INCLUDING THE AVAILABILITY OF AIR-CONDITIONING," HE EXPLAINED.

- - 0 -

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

- 9 -

TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING TOMORROW

*****

THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) WILL MEET TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO DISCUSS AN APPLICATION BY THE STAR FERRY COMPANY FOR FARE INCREASES.

THE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO EXAMINE STAR FERRY’S 1988-1992 FORWARD PLAN.

ALSO ON THE AGENDA IS A REVIEW OF THE ROLE OF PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES IN THE TRANSPORT HIERARCHY.

IN ADDITION, TAC WILL BE BRIEFED ON THE SECOND COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORT STUDY.

THE MEETING, TO BE HELD AT THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, WILL START AT 2.30 PM.

-------o---------

TALKS ON COMMODITY CODE COMPLETED * * * »

CONSULTATIONS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED ON THE INTRODUCTION BY THE UNITED STATES OF THE HARMONIZED COMMODITY CODE.

HONG KONG AND AMERICAN REPRESENTATIVES MET OVER THE WEEKEND IN THE TERRITORY FOR A FIFTH ROUND OF TALKS. PREVIOUS ROUNDS HAD TAKEN PLACE IN WASHINGTON AND GENEVA.

THE HARMONIZED COMMODITY CODE IS A STANDARDISED SYSTEM OF PRODUCT CLASSIFICATION WHICH THE MAJOR TRADING NATIONS HAVE AGREED TO ADOPT AS AN INTERNATIONAL STANDARD FROM 1988.

"THIS HAS BEEN A COMPLEX SERIES OF NEGOTIATIONS DEALING WITH A HIGHLY-TECHNI CAL SUBJECT," THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF TRADE, MR TONY MILLER, SAID.

"HONG KONG HAS BEEN PARTICULARLY CONCERNED OVER THE LAST SIX MONTHS TO ENSURE THAT THE ARRANGEMENTS MADE PROVIDE SUFFICIENT FLEXIBILITY FOR TRADERS TO ADJUST TO THE NEW SYSTEM.

"BOTH SIDES ARE NOW CONFIDENT THAT THE CHANGES TO CLASSIFICATION PRACTICES ON THE ADOPTION OF THE HARMONIZED SYSTEM BY THE UNITED STATES, ON JANUARY 1, 1988, CAN BE CARRIED THROUGH SMOOTHLY."

/EARLIER THIS .......

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 198?

- 10

EARLIER THIS YEAR, HONG KONG CONCLUDED NEGOTIATIONS WITH THE UNITED STATES ON THE TARIFF IMPLICATIONS OF THE CHANGE AND AGREED ON AN OVERALL TARIFF-NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT.

THE SERIES OF CONSULTATIONS JUST COMPLETED HAS DEALT WITH THE IMPLICATIONS OF THE NEW SYSTEM FOR CATEGORISING TEXTILES AND CLOTHING UNDER THE HK/U.S. BILATERAL TEXTILES AGREEMENT.

THE ALLOCATION OF TEXTILES QUOTA WILL PROCEED AS NORMAL ABOUT MID-DECEMBER.

-------0 --------

SHAM SHUT PO DISTRICT FESTIVAL BEGINS ♦ t t * »

ABOUT 7,000 RESIDENTS ENJOYED THEMSELVES TONIGHT (MONDAY) AT THE OPENING CEREMONY/VARIETY SHOW OF THE 1987 SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT FESTIVAL HELD AT THE HONG KONG COLISEUM.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MISS LYDIA DUNN, SAID THAT THE ’’DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION” THEME OF THE FESTIVAL IN FACT COINCIDED WITH GOVERNMENT POLICY AND FOLLOWED THE PACE OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIETY.

"DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION HAS BEEN GENERALLY RECOGNISED AND ACCEPTED BY THE PUBLIC AND HAS MADE NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS,” MISS DUNN REMARKED.

SHE POINTED OUT THAT THE DISTRICT BOARDS, AREA COMMITTEES AND CONCERNED LOCAL ORGANISATIONS HAD BEEN ABLE TO REFLECT THE VIEWS OF RESIDENTS OF RESPECTIVE DISTRICTS EFFECTIVELY, SO THAT THE GOVERNMENT COULD FORMULATE POLICIES ACCORDING TO THE WISH OF THE PUBLIC.

ALSO OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY WAS THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR T.H. CHAU.

THERE WILL BE ANOTHER 60 PROGRAMMES TO BE HELD AT VARIOUS VENUES DURING THE FESTIVAL, WHICH WILL LAST UNTIL DECEMBER 20.

PROGRAMME PAMPHLETS FOR THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT OFFICE AT 39 TONKIN STREET, AND ITS SUB-OFFICES.

---O---------

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

YAU TSIM DISTRICT FESTIVAL CLOSES TODAY

*****

ORGANISATIONS AND RESIDENTS WHO HAD HELPED ORGANISE THE YAU MA TEI. AND TSIM SHA TSUI FESTIVAL RECEIVED SOUVENIRS THIS (MONDAY) EVENING AT A RECEPTION TO MARK THE CLOSE OF THE TWO-MONTH EVENT.

OFFICIATING AT THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY WAS DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR PAUL LEUNG, HE ALSO PRESENTED PRIZES TO WINNERS OF VARIOUS EVENTS HELD DURING THE FESTIVAL.

SPEAKING TO SOME 500 GUESTS AT THE RECEPTION, CHAIRMAN OF THE FESTIVAL’S ORGANISING COMMITTEE WHO IS ALSO CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT BOARD, MR YIP WAH, SAID MORE THAN 100 PEOPLE AND 25 ORGANISATIONS HAD BEEN INVOLVED IN LAUNCHING THE FIRST DISTRICT FESTIVAL.

THEY INCLUDED REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE AREA COMMITTEES, LOCAL ORGANISATIONS, COMMERCIAL FIRMS, THE URBAN COUNCIL, GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND RESIDENTS.

EXPRESSING APPRECIATION FOR THEIR ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT, MR YIP NOTED THAT 66 EVENTS HAD BEEN PRODUCED SINCE THE FESTIVAL STARTED IN SEPTEMBER.

”A WIDE VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES WERE ORGANISED FOR DIFFERENT TARGET GROUPS TO PROMOTE DISTRICT IDENTITY AND PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS,” HE SAID.

THE FESTIVAL WHICH CONCLUDED TODAY COST MORE THAN $700,000, OF WHICH $300,000 WAS FROM DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS AND THE REST FROM SPONSORS.

-------0 ---------

HOT-LINE ON BN(O) PASSPORT ♦ * ♦

A PUBLIC HOT-LINE TO DEAL WITH ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE BRITISH NATIONAL (OVERSEAS) PASSPORT HAS BEEN SET UP BY THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT. THE NUMBER IS 3-665665.

THE PURPOSE OF THIS HOT-LINE, AS MENTIONED BY THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR DAVID JEAFFRESON, IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING ON NOVEMBER 11, IS TO ASSIST ANY MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC WHO HAS ENCOUNTERED DIFFICULTIES WITH HIS BRITISH NATIONAL (OVERSEAS) PASSPORT OR WHO WISHES TO MAKE ENQUIRIES ABOUT IT.

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO MAKE ENQUIRIES CAN DO SO DURING OFFICE HOURS, FROM TOMORROW (TUESDAY).

0 - -

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

FACTORIES FINED FOR EMPLOYMENT BREACHES » ♦ ♦ * ♦

THE PROPRIETORS OF TWO GARMENT FACTORIES AND A STATIONERY MANUFACTURING COMPANY WERE EACH FINED $5,000 BY A TSUEN WAN MAdlSTRATE RECENTLY FOR EMPLOYING FEMALE WORKERS TO WORK ON THEIR REST DAYS.

THE FINE IMPOSED WAS THE MAXIMUM PENALTY PROVIDED FOR UNDER THE WOMEN AND YOUNG PERSONS (INDUSTRY) REGULATIONS.

A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT UNDER THE REGULATIONS, ALL FEMALE WORKERS SHOULD BE GIVEN ONE REST DAY A WEEK AND THAT WORK ON REST DAY WAS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN.

”IF THE REST DAY IS NOT THE SAME FOR EVERY WOMEN EMPLOYED IN AN INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKING, SUCH REST DAY SHOULD BE SPECIFIED CLEARLY IN THE REGISTER," HE SAID.

"THE REST DAY SHOULD NOT BE CHANGED UNLESS A PROPRIETOR HAS NOTIFIED THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR ON A SPECIFIED FORM OF HIS INTENTION TO MAKE SUCH CHANGE 48 HOURS BEFORE IT IS TO COME INTO EFFECT.

"SUCH CHANGE SHOULD ALSO NOT BE MADE MORE THAN ONCE IN EVERY MONTH EXCEPT WITH THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR."

THE SPOKESMAN CALLED ON THE PUBLIC TO MAKE USE OF THE DEPARTMENT’S HOTLINE — 5-8152200 — TO REPORT ANY BREACHES OF THE REGULATIONS.

ALL COMPLAINTS WILL BE HANDLE IN STRICT CONFIDENCE AND THE NAMES AND IDENTITY OF THE COMPLAINANTS WILL NOT BE DISCLOSED IN THE COURSE OF INVESTIGATION.

LAND TO BE RESUMED FOR FANLING DEVELOPMENT ♦ ♦ » ♦ ♦

THE GOVERNMENT IS TO RESUME MORE THAN 60 PRIVATE LOTS IN SHEUNG SHUI AS PART OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF FANLING NEW TOWN.

THE RESUMPTION WILL AFFECT 61 PRIVATE LOTS IN AREA 3 IN SHEUNG SHUI NEAR SHEUNG SHUI TSUEN WITH A TOTAL AREA OF 76,878.9 SQUARE METRES.

/THE RESUMED

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 198?

THE RESUMED LAND WILL BE USED FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW ROAD, A FLOODWATER STORAGE RESERVOIR WITH A PUMPING STATION, AND FORMATION OF A VILLAGE EXPANSION AREA PROVIDING ABOUT 120 SMALL HOUSE SITES TOGETHER WITH OTHER ANCILLARY FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURES.

THE PROJECT WILL START IN FEBRUARY, ON THE EXPIRY OF THE THREE MONTHS’ PERIOD FROM THE POSTING OF THE RESUMPTION NOTICE ON THE SITE.

DETAILS OF THE RESUMPTION HAVE BEEN PUBLISHED IN THE LATEST GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.

------0-------

MORE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES FOR SHEUNG WAN

*****

A PARK AND A CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND ARE TO BE BUILT AT SHEUNG WAN TO PROVIDE MORE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES FOR RESIDENTS IN THE DISTRICT.

OCCUPYING 3,320 SQUARE METRES AT CAINE LANE, THE PARK WILL HAVE A FOUNTAIN, SEVEN PAVILIONS, LANDSCAPED GARDENS, CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUNDS, ELEVATED WALKWAYS AND TOILETS.

WORK IS EXPECTED TO START IN JANUARY AND BE COMPLETED IN 12 MONTHS.

THE CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND WILL BE LOCATED AT KWONG HON TERRACE, ABERDEEN STREET.

OTHER FACILITIES TO BE PROVIDED COMPRISE A SITTING-OUT AREA, A ROCK GARDEN, PLANTERS, ARBOURS, TWO CHESS TABLES AND CONCRETE BENCHES.

THE PROJECT WILL PROVIDE FOR IMPROVEMENT OF AN OPEN SPACE OF 547 SQUARE METRES AT GEORGE’S LANE.

WORK ON THIS IS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN IN FEBRUARY AND TAKE NINE MONTHS TO COMPLETE.

TENDERS FOR THE PROJECTS ARE BEING INVITED BY THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF TENDERS IS NOON ON NOVEMBER 27.

-------0---------

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

TATE'S CAIRN TUNNEL PROJECT UPDATE FOR DB

*****

THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD’S WORKING GROUP ON THE TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL PROJECT WILL HOLD ITS SECOND MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).

MEMBERS WILL BE INFORMED OF PROGRESS AND OF THE CLEARANCE SCHEDULE IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROJECT.

THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (CLEARANCE) OF THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT, MR B. J. BRESNIHAN, WILL BRIEF MEMBERS ON REHOUSING RULES AND EX-GRATIA PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING TO BE HELD TOMORROW AT THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE AT 4/F, SAN PO KONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, KING FUK STREET, SAN PO KONG. IT WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.

-----0------

DB COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER PROPOSED USE OF NEW TERMINUS

*****

MEMBERS OF TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE OF THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 18) TO CONSIDER THE PROPOSED USE OF A NEW TERMINUS TO BE OPENED EARLY NEXT YEAR.

THE TERMINUS, LOCATED BETWEEN SHEUNG SHUI RAILWAY STATION AND LUNG SUM AVENUE, IS INTENDED TO ACCOMMODATE A TAXI STAND AND EIGHT GREEN MINIBUS ROUTES OPERATING BETWEEN SHEUNG SHUI AND TONG KUNG LENG, PING KONG, LIN MA HANG, HANG TAU, HO SHEUNG HEUNG AND SHA TAU KOK.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS VARIOUS PROPOSALS TO IMPROVE KCR SERVICES AT FANLTNG AND SHEUNG SHUI STATIONS AS WELL AS THE INTRODUCTION OF A TAXI RESTRICTED ZONE OUTSIDE THE SHEUNG SHUI RAILWAY STATION.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE, JOCKEY CLUB ROAD, FANLING. IT WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.

/15........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

- 15 -

"MEET-THE-PUBLIC" SCHEME ON DB AGENDA *****

MEMBERS OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S PROMOTION AND PUBLICITY COMMITTEE WILL STUDY MEANS OF PUBLICISING THE BOARD'S "ME-ET-THE-PUBLIC" SCHEME AT A MEETING ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 18).

MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE REPORT GROUP ON THE "STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT OF TAI PO

ON THE JOINT WORKING IN THE 1990’S" PROJECT.

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE A REPORT ON THE OPENING CEREMONY FOR KWONG FUK BRIDGE AND A REPORT ON THE PUBLICATION WORKING GROUP.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING TO BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD SECRETARIAT ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF THE TAI PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE, 152 KWONG FUK ROAD. IT WILL BEGIN AT 9.30 AM.

-------0----------

FREE BUILDING MANAGEMENT COURSE IN MONG KOK * * « »

A FREE BUILDING MANAGEMENT COURSE WILL BE HELD IN MONG KOK TO HELP OFFICE-BEARERS OF BUILDING OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS AND MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES TO UPGRADE THE QUALITY OF MANAGEMENT.

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD AND THE DISTRICT OFFICE FOR THE FOURTH YEAR, THE COURSE FORMS PART OF THE PROGRAMME FOR THE DISTRICT’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN.

THE COURSE COVERS OPERATION AND FINANCIAL CONTROL OF AN OWNERS’ CORPORATION, MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OF BUILDINGS, GENERAL KNOWLEDGE OF FIRE SERVICE INSTALLATIONS AND ANT I-CORRUPTION MEASURES.

IT WILL BE HELD OVER FOUR EVENINGS STARTING FROM NOVEMBER 30 IN ARGYLE CENTRE, 648 NATHAN ROAD.

LECTURES WILL BE GIVEN BY PROFESSIONALS IN BUILDING MANAGEMENT AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE ICAC. THESE WILL BE SUPPLEMENTED BY VISITS TO PRIVATE BUILDINGS SO THAT PARTICIPANTS MAY GAIN FIRST-HAND KNOWLEDGE OF BUILDING MANAGEMENT.

THOSE WHO COMPLETE THE COURSE WILL RECEIVE CERTIFICATES.

APPLICATION FORMS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM MONG KOK DISTRICT OFFICE, 157 PRINCE EDWARD ROAD AND TAI KOK TSUI BRANCH OFFICE, 85 IVY STREET. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 3-933433.

-----o-------- /16..................

MONDAY, 16,

COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS FUND APPLICATIONS » ♦ ♦ » »

THE CULTURE AND RECREATION COMMITTEE OF THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS A NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS FOR ORGANISING VARIOUS ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT AT A MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).

THESE ACTIVITIES INCLUDE A JOINT SCHOOL MUSIC NIGHT, A PICNIC FOR WAN CHAI EAST RESIDENTS, CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION FOR THE MENTALLY RETARDED, CHRISTMAS FUN FAIR FOR CHILDREN AND A SPRING LANTERN FESTIVAL CARNIVAL.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD’S CULTURE AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICE, 8TH FLOOR, TUNG WAH MANSION, 201 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI. THE MEETING WILL S7».RT AT 4 PM.

- - 0 - -

WATER STORAGE FIGURE « ♦ »

STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 66 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 386.762 MILLION CUBIC METRES.

THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 375.656 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 64.1 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.

- - 0 -

/17

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1987

- 17 -

WATER CUTS IN TUEN MUN, MONG KOK « * * *

FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN TUEN MUN AND MONG KOK .WILL BE TURNED OFF ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 19) TO FACILITATE WATER MAINS WORK.

THE SUSPENSION IN TUEN MUN WILL BE FROM 10 PM ON THURSDAY TO 8 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY.

THE PREMISES AFFECTED ARE AT SHEK PAI TAU ROAD, TSING CHUNG STREET, TSING LUN STREET, TAI HING ESTATE, TAI HING INDOOR GAMES HALL, YAN 01 TONG SWIMMING POOL, TANG SIU KIN SPORTS GROUND, CHING CHUNG KOON, CASTLE PEAK HOSPITAL, CHING CHUNG SIN YUEN, SIU HONG COURT, KEI LUN WAI, TSI TIN TSUEN, SIU HANG TSUEN AND PO TONG HA TSUEN.

THE SUSPENSION IN MONG KOK WILL AFFECT THE PREMISES AT 71-79 AND 70-82B, WATERLOO ROAD AND YAU MOON STREET FROM 9 AM TO 4 PM ON THURSDAY.

-----0------

TEMPORARY LANE CLOSURES ON TAI PO ROAD » t * » *

FROM 0.01 AM TO 6 AM ON THURSDAY, FRIDAY, AND SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 19 TO 21), THE FAST LANE OF TAI PO ROAD SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN MA LIU SHUI AND FO TAN NULLAH WILL BE CLOSED TO FACILITATE ROAD MAINTENANCE WORK.

DURING THE SAME PERIOD ON NOVEMBER 23AND 24 THE SLOW LANE OF TAI PO ROAD SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN HO TUNG LAU AND FO TAN NULLAH WILL ALSO BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC.

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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE TO MEET ON MONDAY ......... 1

SENIOR DIRECTORATE APPOINTMENTS ANNOUNCED ............. 2

AG'S CHAMBERS INCREASED IN SIZE AND SCOPE ............. 4

TREND TOWARDS COMMUNITY CARE FOR MENTALLY ILL.......... 6

MORE RESOURCES TO PROMOTE PRACTICAL aND TECHNICAL EDUCATION 8

AMENDMENTS TO MONEY CHANGERS ORDINANCE PROPOSED ....... 9

LEGCO MOTION ON SURVEY OFFICE REPORT .................. 10

TAC CONSIDERS STAR FERRY'S FARE RISE APPLICATION...... 11

ELDERLY URGED TO KEEP UP WITH CHANGES ................. 11

top-class Marathon runners to join >iNti-drug event.... 12

SEMDLJ? on trlld ACTIVITIES............................ 14

HISTORY OF CHEUNG C&JJ ON EXHIBIT ..................... 15

ENDANGERED hNIMALS AND B.‘*RD set free................. 16

ROYAL OBSERVATORY CALENDAR HaS MEDIA THEME ............ 16

MAGAZINE HIGHLIGHTS PEDESTRIAN SAFETY ................. 17

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS SMOKE-OUT ..................... 18

STREET SLEEPER PROBLEMS UNDER STUDY ................... 18

MARINE SAND DREDGING, CABLE LAYING AUTHORISED ......... 19

URBAN CLErtRWAY RESTRICTIONS IN CHOI HUNG ESTATE....... 19

PROHIBITED ROaD ZONES IN WaN CHaI ..................... 20

URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTION IN SHEUNG SHUI ............. 20

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE TO MEET ON MONDAY » * ♦ * ♦

THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE WILL HOLD ITS FIRST MEETING NEXT MONDAY (NOVEMBER 23), AFTER WHICH IT WILL CALL FOR THE PUBLIC AND INTERESTED PARTIES TO MAKE SUBMISSIONS AND EVIDENCE, MR IAN DAVISON, THE COMMITTEE’S CHAIRMAN, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).

SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AT THE AIRPORT ON HIS ARRIVAL FROM LONDON, MR DAVISON SAID ANYBODY WHO HAD ANYTHING TO SAY ABOUT THE BETTER REGULATIONS OF THE HONG KONG STOCK AND FUTURES EXCHANGES WAS WELCOME TO GIVE HIS VIEWS.

"OBVIOUSLY WE EXPECT THE COUNCIL OF EXCHANGE AND THE LEADING BODIES OF THAT SORT TO GIVE US THEIR VIEWS IN DETAIL. BUT WE CERTAINLY INVITE SUBMISSIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AS WELL,” HE SAID.

MR DAVISON PLEDGED THAT THE COMMITTEE WOULD DO ITS BEST IN TRYING TO PREPARE A REPORT IN SIX MONTHS, ADDING THAT HE WOULD MEET MEMBERS OF HIS COMMITTEE INDIVIDUALLY IN THE NEXT DAY OR TWO.

ASKED TO COMMENT ON THE COMMITTEE’S PRIORITIES OF WORK, MR DAVISON SAID THE COMMITTEE’S TERMS OF REFERENCE INDICATED THAT THE MAJOR THRUST OF ITS REPORT WAS LOOKING FORWARD.

HE SAID THE COMMITTEE WANTED TO TRY TO LAY A BLUEPRINT WHICH COULD BE FOLLOWED IN IMPROVING THE REGULATORY ARRANGEMENTS IN THE HONG KONG FINANCIAL MARKETS IN THE FUTURE.

IN REPLY TO A QUESTION ON THE SUSPENSION OF THE STOCK MARKET, MR DAVISON SAID THE COMMITTEE WOULD TRY AND DRAW CONCLUSIONS FROM WHAT HAD PASSED IN ORDER TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE.

"OBVIOUSLY WE WILL HEAR WHAT HAS HAPPENED AND FORM OUR VIEWS. BUT AS I SAID AGAIN, WE’RE NOT HERE TO CRITICISE OR TO FORM A VIEW AS TO WHAT WAS DONE RIGHT OR WRONG IN THE PAST.

"IT’S NOT A BACKWARD LOOKING REPORT,” HE ADDED.

COMMENTING ON THE RECENT PLUNGE IN THE HONG KONG STOCK MARKET, MR DAVISON SAID THERE WAS NO DOUBT WHATSOEVER THAT ON OCTOBER 19 ALL STOCK MARKETS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD WERE BADLY HIT.

"IT’S (’LEAR THAT HONG KONG WAS AS BADLY HIT AS ANY OTHER MARKET," HE SAID.

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

- 2 -

SENIOR DIRECTORATE APPOINTMENTS ANNOUNCED » ♦ t ♦ *

THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THE FOLLOWING SENIOR DIRECTORATE APPOINTMENTS:

MR DAVID JEAFFRESON, SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, WILL SUCCEED MR GEOFFREY BARNES AS COMMISSIONER, INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION, IN LATE FEBRUARY 1988.

MR GEOFFREY BARNES, COMMISSIONER, INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION, WILL REPLACE MR DAVID JEAFFRESON AS SECRETARY FOR SECURITY.

MR KEITH BROADBRIDGE, POLICE ADMINISTRATION OFFICER, WILL SUCCEED MR MICHAEL CARTLAND AS PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE, GENEVA, IN FEBRUARY 1988.

MR ANTHONY EASON, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, WILL SUCCEED MR HAIDER BARMA AS DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE (APPOINTMENTS) TOWARDS THE END OF NOVEMBER 1987.

MR ADOLF HSU, COMMISSIONER, SURVEY OFFICE, WILL SUCCEED MISS ELAINE CHUNG AS DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE IN DECEMBER 1987.

MISS ELAINE CHUNG, DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, WILL BECOME DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION IN NOVEMBER 1987.

BRIEF BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES ON THESE OFFICERS FOLLOW.

MR DAVID GREGORY JEAFFRESON, CBE, JP

AGED 56. MR JEAFFRESON JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE AS AN ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER IN 1961. HIS RECENT POSTINGS INCLUDE DEPUTY FINANCIAL SECRETARY (1972-76) AND SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES (1976-82). HE BECAME SECRETARY FOR SECURITY IN NOVEMBER 1982. MR JEAFFRESON WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF SECRETARY, GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, IN FEBRUARY 1977.

MR GEOFFREY THOMAS BARNES

AGED 55. MR BARNES JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE AS AN ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER IN 1970. HE HAS SERVED IN A NUMBER OF DEPARTMENTS AND BRANCHES. HIS RECENT POSTINGS INCLUDE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR SECURITY (1977-81), DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR SOCIAL SERVICES (1981-83), DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE (1983-84). HE BECAME COMMISSIONER, ICAC, IN JANUARY 1985. MR BARNES WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE A IN SEPTEMBER I 986.

/MR KEITH

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1?, 1987

3 -

MR KEITH BROADBRIDGE, JP

AGED 52. MR BROADBRIDGE JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE IN 1971 AND WAS APPOINTED ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE C TN 1975. HE HAS SERVED AS PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE (1973-78), ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER IN THE FORMER TRADE, INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE DEPARTMENT (1978-79), DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS AND CONTROLS (1979-82), DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS AND EXCISE (1982-84), DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT (1984-86) AND BECAME POLICE ADMINISTRATION OFFICER IN JUNE 1986. HE WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE STAFF GRADE Bl IN OCTOBER 1987.

MR ANTHONY GORDON EASON, JP

AGED 49. MR EASON JOINED THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE IN 1968. HE HAS SERVED IN A NUMBER OF DEPARTMENTS AND BRANCHES: AS DISTRICT OFFICER IN THE FORMER NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, AS PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY IN THE FORMER ENVIRONMENT BRANCH AND AS CITY DISTRICT COMMISSIONER IN THE FORMER HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT. MORE RECENTLY HE HAS ALSO SERVED AS DEPUTY DIRECTOR, HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT (1979-81), DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR LANDS AND WORKS (1981-86) AND BECAME DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY IN JANUARY 1986. HE WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE B IN APRIL 1982.

MR ADOLF HSU HSUNG, JP

AGED 49. MR HSU JOINED THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE IN 1968. HE HAS SERVED IN A NUMBER OF DEPARTMENTS AND BRANCHES INCLUDING PERIODS AS PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY IN THE CIVIL SERVICE AND THE FORMER ADMINISTRATION BRANCH. MORE RECENTLY HE HAS ALSO SERVED AS DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT SUPPLIES (1979-83), DISTRICT COMMISSIONER (TSUEN WAN), CNTA (1983-84), AND DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION (1985-87). HE WAS APPOINTED COMMISSIONER, SURVEY OFFICE, IN APRIL THIS YEAR TO UNDERTAKE THE SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT RELATING TO THE GREEN PAPER ON THE 1987 REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENTS IN REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT. HE WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE B IN APRIL 1981.

MISS ELAINE CHUNG LA I-KWOK, JP

AGED 42. MISS CHUNG JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE AS AN ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER IN 1969. SHE HAS SERVED IN A NUMBER OF DEPARTMENTS AND BRANCHES INCLUDING PERIODS AS PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY IN THE HOUSING BRANCH, AND AS ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (ADMINISTRATION) IN RTHK. MORE RECENTLY SHF. HAS ALSO SERVED AS DISTRICT OFFICER (TSUEN WAN), CNTA (1982-84), DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF HOUSING (1984-86) AND BECAME DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE IN OCTOBER 1986. SHE WAS PROMOTED TO HER PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE B IN SEPTEMBER 1987.

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17,1987

AG’S CHAMBERS INCREASED IN SIZE AND SCOPE * * * *

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS IS NOW ONE OF THE LARGEST LAW OFFICES UNDER ONE ROOF IN THE WORLD, THE ACTING SOLICITOR GENERAL, MR ^RANK STOCK, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).

MR STOCK TOLD A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF HONG KONG THAT LIKE ITS COUNTERPARTS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS HAD INCREASED BOTH IN SIZE AND IN THE SCOPE OF THE WORK UNDERTAKEN.

FIFTEEN YEARS AGO IT HAD 69 LAWYERS, 10 YEARS AGO 84 AND TODAY THERE WERE 248 LAWYERS FROM A VARIETY OF JURISDICTIONS INCLUDING A LARGE NUMBER OF LOCALLY QUALIFIED COUNSEL.

HE SAID THAT HONG KONG’S GROWTH INTO A LEADING FINANCIAL, COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL CENTRE IN THE PAST DECADE HAD CREATED AN INCREASED DEMAND FOR LEGAL AND OTHER PROFESSIONAL SERVICES. ALSO THE POPULATION WAS NOW BETTER EDUCATED TO THEIR RIGHTS IN LAW.

AS A RESULT MANY NEW LAW FIRMS, LOCAL AND FROM ABROAD, HAD SET UP OFFICES HERE.

"IN THE SAME WAY THAT THE GROWTH IN THE NUMBER AND SIZE OF LAW FIRMS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR HAD BEEN A RESPONSE TO A PUBLIC NEED, SO TOO HAVE WE RESPONDED TO NEW DEMANDS.

"LITIGATION TO WHICH GOVERNMENT IS A PARTY HAS INCREASED; CRIME HAS BECOME MORE SOPHISTICATED AND MORE COMPLEX; AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS MORE FREQUENTLY REQUIRE THE PROVISION OF SWIFT AND SOUND LEGAL SERVICES," HE SAID.

AS A RESULT THE GROWTH IN THE SIZE OF THE CHAMBERS, AND IN THE AREAS OF THE WORK UNDERTAKEN, HAS MIRRORED THE GROWTH IN, AND THE NEEDS OF, THE PRIVATE SECTOR.

SPEAKING ON THE TOPIC "A MODERN ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS: MYTH AND REALITY", MR STOCK SOUGHT TO PUT PAY TO THE MISCONCEPTION, HELD BY SOME, THAT THE SOLE FUNCTION OF THE CHAMBERS WAS TO PROSECUTE CRIMINAL CASES.

IN REALITY THE WORK OF THE CHAMBERS WAS FAR MORE VARIED.

HE SAID OF COURSE THE 124 COUNSEL IN THE PROSECUTIONS DIVISION PERFORMED A VITAL PUBLIC FUNCTION BUT THIS WAS JUST ONE ASPECT OF THE CHAMBERS' WORK.

ON THE WORK OF THE PROSECUTION DIVISION, HE SAID: "JUST AS THE COMMUNITY HAS BECOME BETTER EDUCATED, SO HAS THE CRIMINAL BECOME MORE SOPHISTICATED; AND WE HAVE HAD TO TAILOR OUR RESPONSE ACCORDINGLY."

/THE LAWYER .......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

- 5 -

THE LAWYER WHO JOINS THE PROSECUTION SERVICE WILL FIND WITHIN THAT DIVISION ALONE A NUMBER OF SPECIALISED FUNCTIONS REQUIRING HIGH LEVELS OF EXPERTISE. THE PROSECUTION OF COMPLEX COMMERCIAL CRIME, FOR EXAMPLE, IS UNDERTAKEN BY A UNIT WHICH HAS EIGHT DIRECTORATE OFFICERS ANO 15 OTHER EXPERIENCED LAWYERS; AND THERE ARE ALSO FIVE LAWYERS WHO WORK EXCLUSIVELY ON EXTRADITION CASES.

THE CIVIL LITIGATION UNIT WAS ANOTHER AREA WHICH HAD GROWN DRAMATICALLY, THE SOLICITOR GENERAL SAID.

"TO THAT UNIT ARE SENT ALL CIVIL CASES TO WHICH THE GOVERNMENT IS A PARTY - WHETHER AS DEFENDANT OR PLAINTIFF.

"LAND DISPUTES; NEGLIGENCE ACTIONS; TAX CASES; JUDICIAL REVIEWS OF ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS; INQUIRIES; TRIBUNAL WORK; CASES BEFORE PROFESSIONAL DISCIPLINARY BOARDS; AND REQUESTS FROM OTHER JURISDICTIONS FOR THE TAKING OF EVIDENCE IN HONGKONG," MR STOCK SAID.

THE 38 BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS OF THE UNIT HAVE, SO FAR THIS YEAR, APPEARED IN THE COURTS AND TRIBUNALS OF HONGKONG ON OVER 1,000 OCCASIONS.

TURNING TO ARBITRATION CASES, MR STOCK SAID THESE CASES WERE UNDERTAKEN BY ANOTHER SPECIALIST UNIT WHICH HAD HANDLED CLAIMS OF ABOUT $280 MILLION SO FAR THIS YEAR.

"THEY TOO HAVE CLIENTS - GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND POLICY BRANCHES - TO WHOM THEY ARE REQUIRED TO TENDER ADVICE, POPULAR OR UNPOPULAR," HE SAID.

MR STOCK EXPLAINED THAT THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT’S RELATIONSHIP WITH CLIENT DEPARTMENTS WAS IN ESSENCE NO DIFFERENT FROM THE RELATIONSHIP OF ANY OTHER LAWYER WITH HIS CLIENT.

"WE TENDER ADVICE, ULTIMATELY LEAVING THE CLIENT TO DECIDE UPON HIS COURSE OF ACTION; AND OUR DUTY OF PROFESSIONAL CONFIDENTIALITY TO THAT CLIENT IS THE SAME DUTY AS ATTACHES TO ANY PRIVATE LAWYER," HE SAID.

MR STOCK SAID THOSE LAWYERS TO WHOM ADVOCACY AND LITIGATION DOES NOT APPEAL WOULD FIND, IN THE CHAMBERS, A HOST OF OTHER SPECIALITIES. THESE INCLUDED A COMMERCIAL ADVISORY SECTION, SPECIALISING IN COMMERCIAL CONTRACT WORK AND IN ADVICE ON MONETARY AFFAIRS; A LARGE GENERAL ADVISORY SECTION, ADVISING ON TAXATION, MERCHANT SHIPPING, COPYRIGHT, FAMILY LAW, IMMIGRATION. IN THE POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION DIVISION, ADVISERS WITH SPECIALIST EXPERIENCE IN LEGAL POLICY WORK. UNDER THE LAW DRAFTSMAN, A LAW DRAFTING DIVISION WITH EXPERTS IN LEGISLATIVE DRAFTING; A FURTHER UNIT WHOSE SPEC IALISATION IS INTERNATIONAL LAW AND A BODY OF LAWYERS WHO PROVIDE RESEARCH FOR THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION.

/•'BUT WITH...........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1?, 1^87

"BUT WITH THESE WIDESPREAD FUNCTIONS, AND THE GROWTH THAT HAS TAKEN PLACE, WE MUST ENSURE THAT THE REQUISITE PROFESSIONAL MANPOWER IS ADEQUATELY SUPPORTED.

' "NO MODERN LAW.OFFICE CAN FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY WITHOUT SKILLED SUPPORTING STAFF OR WITHOUT THE BENEFIT OF THE MODERN EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES OF ITS COMPETITORS," HE SAID.

MR STOCK SAID THAT HF. HAD BEEN TOLD THAT SOME LARGE LAW FIRMS HAD SPECIALIST MANAGERS WHO WERE NOT LAWYERS BUT WHO WERE INSTEAD ACCOUNTANTS, OR PROFESSIONAL ADMINISTRATORS.

"WE TOO ARE EXAMINING WHETHER SUCH A SOLUTION IS APPROPRIATE FOR US," MR STOCK SAID.

FINALLY, MR STOCK SAID THE DEPARTMENT HAD YET ANOTHER IMPORTANT ROLE - THAT OF TRAINING THE LARGE NUMBERS OF NEWLY QUALIFIED LAWYERS AND TRAINEES WHO JOIN EACH YEAR.

"WE LIKE TO BELIEVE THAT WE PAY CONSIDERABLE ATTENTION TO THIS TRAINING FUNCTION; BUT, WITH THE GROWING NUMBER OF TRAINEES, WE HAVE DECIDED TO EXAMINE OUR TRAINING PROGRAMMES SO AS TO ENSURE THAT WE ARE WELL EQUIPPED IN THE YEARS AHEAD TO PROVIDE A TRAINING SERVICE OF EXCELLENCE," HE SAID.

TO THIS END, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL HAS RECENTLY APPOINTED A WORKING GROUP, WHICH WILL EXAMINE THE PRESENT TRAINING METHODS, DECIDE WHAT IMPROVEMENTS ARE NECESSARY AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A FUTURE PROGRAMME AND POLICIES. THE SOLICITOR GENERAL WILL CHAIR THE NEW GROUP.

- - 0 - -

TREND TOWARDS COMMUNITY CARE FOR MENTALLY ILL

» « » t

IT IS NOW AN INTERNATIONAL TREND TO PROVIDE CARE AND TREATMENT FOR THE MENTALLY ILL WITHIN THE COMMUNITY, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE WAN TSUI HALF-WAY HOUSE OPERATED BY THE RICHMOND FELLOWSHIP OF HONG KONG, MRS WONG SAID THAT WITH THE ADVANCEMENT MADE IN MEDICATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF THE DETRIMENTAL EFFECTS OF LIVING IN AN INSTITUTION, SMALLER SETTINGS MORE SIMILAR TO AN ORDINARY HOME ENVIRONMENT COULD HELP THIS GROUP OF PEOPLE REGAIN SELF-CONFIDENCE AND SELF-ESTEEM.

/IT WAS

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

IT WAS ALSO RECOGNISED THAT A ’’NETWORK OF CARE” SHOULD BE PROVIDED BY A WIDE RANGE OF PROFESSIONALS, INCLUDING PSYCHIATRISTS, PSYCHOLOGISTS, SOCIAL WORKERS, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS AND NURSES, SHE ADDED.

AS REGARDS WELFARE PROVISION FOR COMMUNITY CARE, MRS WONG SAID THE GOVERNMENT PROVIDED RESOURCES FOR SHELTERED WORKSHOPS, ACTIVITY CENTRES, HOSTELS AND HALF-WAY HOUSES.

’’APART FROM SUCH TANGIBLE SERVICES, ANOTHER IMPORTANT ELEMENT IS THE GOODWILL OF THE COMMUNITY TO KEEP AND SUSTAIN ITS MENTALLY ILL MEMBERS IN ITS MIDST.

”IN THIS ASPECT, COMMUNITY EDUCATION IS MOST IMPORTANT IN HELPING PEOPLE TO HAVE A GOOD UNDERSTANDING OF THE MENTALLY ILL,” SHE SAID.

REFERRING TO THE COMMON PREJUDICE OF ASSOCIATING THE MENTALLY ILL WITH UNPREDICTABLE VIOLENT ASSAULTS, SHE SAID THAT IT SHOULD BE EMPHASISED THAT POTENTIAL DANGER WAS PRESENTED NOT BY HALF-WAY HOUSE RESIDENTS BUT BY THOSE WITHOUT SUFFICIENT CARE AND SUPPORT AND THAT MENTAL ILLNESS WAS TREATABLE IN THE SAME WAY AS PHYSICAL ILLNESS.

ON HALF-WAY HOUSES, MRS WONG SAID THAT THEY PLAYED AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE REHABILITATION OF DISCHARGED MENTAL PATIENTS, TN HELPING TO BRIDGE THE GAP DURING THAT DIFFICULT PERIOD OF TRANSITION FROM THE CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT OF THE MENTAL HOSPITAL TO THE MORE DEMANDING LIFE OF THE OPEN COMMUNITY.

’’THIS THERAPEUTIC APPROACH FOR THE CARE OF THE MENTALLY ILL HAS BEEN WIDELY PRACTISED IN ALL ADVANCED COUNTRIES AND HAS PROVED TO BE A MOST EFFECTIVE WAY OF BRINGING ABOUT RE-INTEGRATION OF THE MENTALLY ILL INTO THE COMMUNITY WHICH IS THE ULTIMATE GOAL OF REHABILITATION,” SHE SAID.

SHE NOTED THAT THROUGH MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION PROGRAMMES PROMOTED ON A DISTRICT BASIS, THERE WAS A CHANGE OF ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE MENTALLY ILL AND A GREATER UNDERSTANDING AND ACCEPTANCE OF THEM.

SHE BELIEVED THAT IT WAS ALSO AN IMPORTANT OBJECTIVE OF THE RICHMOND FELLOWSHIP OF HONG KONG TO MAINTAIN A CLOSE LINK WITH THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND EVERY EFFORT WOULD BE MADE TO INVOLVE ITS PARTICIPATION IN PROVIDING IMPROVEMENT OF SERVICES.

THE RICHMOND FELLOWSHIP OF HONG KONG IS A VOLUNTARY AGENCY SET UP IN 1984 TO PROMOTE THE CONCEPT OF THERAPEUTIC COMMUNITIES, WHICH APART FROM PROVISION OF TRANSITIONAL CARE FACILITIES, ALSO ENCOMPASSES BOTH PREVENTIVE CARE AND CONTINUED SUPPORT.

-------0 -------- /8......................

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

MORE RESOURCES TO PROMOTE PRACTICAL AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION *****

HONG KONG’S FIRST PRACTICAL EDUCATION CENTRE AND TECHNICAL TEACHING CENTRE WILL BE OFFICIALLY OPENED ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 20) BY THE DIRECTOR OF TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND INDUSTRIAL TRAINING, MR ifoRACE KNIGHT.

THE TWO CENTRES, HOUSED UNDER ONE ROOF AT THE FORMER LOK FU GOVERNMENT PRIMARY SCHOOL AT 145 JUNCTION ROAD, LOK FU, HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AS PART OF ITS EFFORTS TO PROMOTE THE TEACHING OF PRACTICAL AND TECHNICAL SUBJECTS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS.

THE PRACTICAL EDUCATION CENTRE CATERS FOR STUDENTS OF SCHOOLS IN EAST KOWLOON INCLUDING PRIVATE SCHOOLS WHICH ARE SHORT OF ACCOMMODATION, FACILITIES OR TRAINED TEACHERS FOR THE TEACHING OF PRACTICAL AND TECHNICAL SUBJECTS.

IT HAS 15 WORKSHOPS AND SPECIAL ROOMS FOR THE TEACHING OF WOODWORK, METALWORK, PLASTICS, COOKERY, NEEDLEWORK, PAINTING, POTTERY AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL WORKS UNDER THE THREE SCHOOL SUBJECTS OF DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY, HOME ECONOMICS AND ART AND DESIGN. IN ADDITION, IT HAS TWO CLASSROOMS AND A REFERENCE LIBRARY WITH AUDIO-VISUAL EQUIPMENT.

THE CENTRE IS MANNED BY QUALIFIED TEACHERS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT. INSTRUCTION IS GIVEN FREE TO STUDENTS WHO ATTEND AN 80-MINUTE SESSION ONCE A WEEK AT THE CENTRE FOR EACH SUBJECT THEY TAKE.

STAFF OF THE CENTRE KEEP IN CLOSE TOUCH WITH THE PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS TO ENSURE THAT THEY ARE FULLY INFORMED OF THE PROGRESS OF THEIR STUDENTS IN THE CENTRE.

THE CENTRE IS NOW SERVICING ABOUT 5,400 SECONDARY 1 AND 2 STUDENTS FROM 11 SCHOOLS IN THE EAST KOWLOON REGION. IT CAN HANDLE UP TO 9,600 STUDENTS. IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE CENTRE WILL START OPERATING COURSES FOR SECONDARY 3 STUDENTS IN THE SCHOOL YEAR 1988/89.

THE TECHNICAL TEACHING CENTRE WAS ESTABLISHED FOR THE BENEFIT OF TEACHERS OF TECHNICAL SUBJECTS. IT HAS A MODERN WORKSHOP EQUIPPED WITH SOPHISTICATED MACHINERY INCLUDING GRINDERS, MILLING MACHINES AND SHAPERS FOR TEACHERS’ USE IN ENHANCING THE TEACHING OF TECHNICAL SUBJECTS IN SCHOOLS.

/THE CENTRE

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

9 -

THE CENTRE ALSO HAS A RESOURCE AREA FOR ORGANISING IN-SERVICE COURSES AND SEMINARS FOR TEACHERS. PARTICIPANTS COULD ALSO USE THE FACILITIES THERE TO PRODUCE TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT FOR THE TEACHING OF TECHNICAL SUBJECTS AND TO EXPERIMENT ON NEW TECHNOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE TWO CENTRES AT 145 JUNCTION ROAD, LOK FU, BY THE DIRECTOR OF TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND INDUSTRIAL TRAINING, MR HORACE KNIGHT, AT 11 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 20).

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AMENDMENTS TO MONEY CHANGERS ORDINANCE PROPOSED

* * « » »

PROPOSALS WERE ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) FOR AMENDMENT OF THE MONEY CHANGERS (DISCLOSURE OF RATES, CHARGES AND COMMISSIONS) ORDINANCE.

THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR STEVE BARCLAY, SAID THE MONEY CHANGERS ORDINANCE WAS ENACTED IN APRIL 1985 FOLLOWING MANY COMPLAINTS, BUT THIS HAD NOT EFFECTIVELY SOLVED THE PROBLEM.

A WORKING GROUP ON MONEY CHANGERS WAS ESTABLISHED IN NOVEMBER 1986 TO IDENTIFY AND EXAMINE THE PROBLEMS THAT REMAINED AND TO RECOMMEND A SOLUTION.

THE WORKING GROUP CONCLUDED THAT THE PROBLEM AREAS FELL INTO THREE CATEGORIES -

(A) FAILURE BY MONEY CHANGERS TO COMPLY WITH THE EXISTING LEGISLATION;

(B) PROVISION BY MONEY CHANGERS OF FALSE OR MISLEADING INFORMATION, AND

/THE RECOMMENDED

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

10 -

THE RECOMMENDED SOLUTION TO THE MAJOR PROBLEMS CONSISTS OF A NUMBER OF AMENDMENTS TO THE ORDINANCE. THE PROPOSED CHANGES» LISTED BELOW, ARE INTENDED TO CLARIFY A NUMBER OF AMBIGUITIES AND LEGAL LOOP-HOLES; TO PROVIDE CLEAR INFORMATION TO THE CUSTOMER; AND IO FACILITATE PROSECUTION OF OFFENDERS

MONEY CHANGERS MUST DISPLAY A NOTICE BOARD CLEARLY SHOWING THE NET RATE OF EXCHANGE OFFERED;

- CERTAIN PRESCRIBED CURRENCIES SHOULD BE DISPLAYED ON THE NOTICE BOARD;

THE NET RATES DISPLAYED MUST BE THE LEAST FAVOURABLE TO THE CUSTOMER - BETTER RATES MAY BE OFFERED;

- ANY ADVERTISING OF RATES OF EXCHANGE, COMMISSION ETC MUST RELATE EQUALLY TO BUYING AND SELLING RATES;

- THE NOTE MONEY CHANGERS MUST GIVE THEIR CUSTOMERS WILL BE PRESCRIBED;

A NEW OFFENCE OF MAKING FALSE REPRESENTATIONS WILL BE CREATED;

THE LIABILITY FOR PROSECUTION FOR DIFFERENT OFFENCES WILL BE CLARIFIED.

ANYONE WISHING TO COMMENT ON THE PROPOSALS MAY DO SO BEFORE JANUARY 31 NEXT YEAR BY WRITING TO:- THE SECRETARY, WORKING GROUP ON MONEY CHANGERS, TRADE AND INDUSTRY BRANCH, 2/F MAIN WING, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG.

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LEGCO MOTION ON SURVEY OFFICE REPORT » » * ♦ ♦

ABOUT 30 MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL SPEAK ON A MOTION CONCERNING THE REPORT OF THE SURVEY OFFICE, AND THE REPORT OF THE MONITORS, AT THE COUNCIL’S MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).

IN ADDITION, SEVERAL SESSIONAL PAPERS WILL BE TABLED. THESE INCLUDE : THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING SERVICES AND THE ACCOUNTS OF HONG KONG FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1987; AND THE REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF AUDIT ON THE ACCOUNTS OF THE GOVERNMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1987 AND THE RESULTS OF VALUE FOR MONEY AUDITS.

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

TAC CONSIDERS STAR FERRY’S FARE RISE APPLICATION » » t » »

AN APPLICATION BY THE STAR FERRY COMPANY LTD FOR FARE INCREASES WAS CONSIDERED BY THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) TOIJAY (TUESDAY) AND ITS RECOMMENDATIONS WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL FOR CONSIDERATION.

IN CONSIDERING THE APPLICATION, MEMBERS EXAMINED STAR FERRY’S EXISTING FINANCIAL POSITION AND ALSO THE EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSED FARE INCREASES ON THE COMPANY’S PATRONAGE, REVENUE, EXPENDITURE AND PROFITS FORECASTS.

MEMBERS WERE ALSO BRIEFED ON STAR FERRY’S 1988/1992 FORWARD PLAN, INCLUDING ITS PROPOSED SERVICE CHANGES.

THE TAC ALSO REVIEWED THE ROLE OF PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT RECENT TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENTS. MEMBERS AGREED THAT THE ROLE OF PLB’S AS A COMPLEMENTARY PUBLIC TRANSPORT MODE SHOULD BE MAINTAINED.

THEY ALSO AGREED THAT THE OPERATION OF GREEN MINIBUS SERVICES SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE MONITORED BY THE GOVERNMENT AND THAT THE CONVERSION OF RED MINIBUSES INTO GREEN MINIBUSES SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE PROMOTED.

MEMBERS WERE ALSO GIVEN A BRIEFING ON THE BACKGROUND TO THE COMMISSIONING OF THE SECOND COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORT STUDY, ITS SCOPE OF WORK AND IMPLICATIONS FOR FUTURE TRANSPORT PLANNING.

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ELDERLY URGED TO KEEP UP WITH CHANGES t * » » »

OLD PEOPLE SHOULD PAY MORE ATTENTION TO THEIR PHYSICAL HEALTH AND MAINTAIN AN OPTIMISTIC AND HOPEFUL OUTLOOK ON LIFE SO AS TO ENJOY A HAPPY OLD AGE, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).

MRS WONG WAS SPEAKING AT A CONCERT FOR THE ELDERLY ORGANISED BY THE ENDEAVOURERS.

SHE SAID THAT OLD PEOPLE SHOULD ALSO PAY MORE ATTENTION TO CURRENT AFFAIRS AND NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE SOCIETY TO KEEP THEMSELVES ABREAST OF THE CHANGES OF THE TIMES.

“IF THEY CAN ACCEPT NEW KNOWLEDGE, IT WILL BE EASIER FOR THEM TO ACCEPT THE VIEWS OF OTHER PEOPLE AND CAN BUILD UP A BETTER INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHERS,” SHE SAID.

/IN ADDITION,

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER TT, 1987

IN ADDITION, SHE SAID THAT OLD PEOPLE SHOULD TAKE PART IN COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES.

“BY KEEPING UP THEIR SOCIAL CONTACTS, TAKING PART IN ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY SOCIAL CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY AND OTHER AGENCIES OR BY BECOMING VOLUNTEERS TO SERVE OTHERS ARE ALL GOOD WAYS FOR THE SENIOR CITIZENS TO REMAIN SOCIALLY AND PHYSICALLY ACTIVE,” SHE ADDED.

MRS WONG COMMENDED THE ENDEAVOURERS FOR ITS CONTRIBUTIONS IN SERVING THE ELDERLY.

------0-------

TOP-CLASS MARATHON RUNNERS TO JOIN ANTI-DRUG EVENT » * ♦ » *

OLYMPIC STANDARD MARATHON RUNNERS FROM VARIOUS COUNTRIES WILL JOIN HONG KONG ATHLETES IN BECOMING "ANTI-DRUG RUNNERS” IN THE 1988 HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL MARATHON EARLY NEXT YEAR.

DETAILS OF THE NEW JOINT VENTURE BETWEEN THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGANIST NARCOTICS (ACAN) AND THE HONG KONG AMATEUR ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (HKAAA) WERE ANNOUNCED AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (TUESDAY) BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, MR GARETH MULLOY.

MR MULLOY SAID THAT ”BE AN ANTI-DRUG RUNNER” HAD BEEN CHOSEN AS THE THEME FOR THE MARATHON, WHICH WILL BE HELD ON THE ISLAND EASTERN CORRIDOR ON SUNDAY, JANUARY 24.

HE STRESSED THAT THE WAR AGAINST THE PROBLEM OF DRUG ABUSE WAS A GLOBAL ISSUE REQUIRING THE FULL CO-OPERATION OF ALL COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES.

MR MULLOY ALSO SAID HE WAS PLEASED THAT HONG KONG’S ANTI-DRUG PREVENTIVE EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY WORK WAS SPREADING TO THE SPORTS SECTOR.

"WE ARE GLAD THAT THE SPORTS WORLD IS INCREASINGLY AWARE OF THE DANGERS OF DRUG ABUSE AND TAKES AN ACTIVE ROLE IN PROMOTING THE ANTI-DRUG MESSAGE," HE SAID.

HE HOPED THAT HONG KONG, THROUGH THE INTERNATIONAL EVENT, WOULD DEMONSTRATE TO THE WORLD ITS DETERMINATION TO SUPPRESS THE DRUG PROBLEM BY APPEALING TO ATHLETES ALL OVER THE WORLD TO REMAIN DRUG-FREE.

/"WE WILL

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1lt 1987

”WE WILL SHOW THE WORLD THE REAL SPIRIT OF COMPETITION — AIM TO WIN BY YOUR OWN ABILITIES AND DO NOT CHEAT BY USING ARTIFICIAL DRUG AID,” HE ADDED.

THE RACE DIRECTOR, MR JAMIE SCOTT, WHO ALSO SPOKE AT THE CONFERENCE, DISCLOSED THAT OLYMPIC STANDARD MARATHON RUNNERS FROM CHINA, MACAU, UNITED KINGDOM, FRANCE, ITALY, THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, SINGAPORE, JAPAN, THAILAND AND INDIA WOULD TAKE PART IN THE EVENT.

COMPETITORS WILL RUN FOUR LAPS OF A SECTION OF THE ISLAND EASTERN CORRIDOR BETWEEN CAUSEWAY BAY AND SHAU KEI WAN, COVERING A DISTANCE OF 26 MILES 385 YARDS (42.195 KILOMETRES) WHICH IS THE LENGTH OF THE STANDARD MODERN MARATHON.

THE ISLAND EASTERN CORRIDOR, WHICH WILL BE CLOSED FOR THE FIRST TIME FOR A SPORTS COMPETITION, HAS BEEN SELECTED BECAUSE OF ITS RATHER FLAT ROAD SURFACE WHICH ALLOWS FOR THE INCLUSION OF WHEELCHAIR ATHLETES.

MR SCOTT ADDED THAT WORLD-CLASS WHEELCHAIR ATHLETES WOULD BE INVITED FROM AUSTRALIA, JAPAN, NEW ZEALAND, SINGAPORE AND THE UNITED STATES.

HONG KONG HAS BEEN RATED BY THE U.S. RUNNER MAGAZINE AS THE BEST CITY IN ASIA AND ONE OF THE 25 BEST PLACES IN THE WORLD FOR RUNNING.

THE RATING IS BASED ON SUCH FACTORS AS TRAINING TERRAIN, RACE OPPORTUNITIES, RUNNING SUPPORT SYSTEMS, ACCESS TO FACILITIES AND .CLIMATE.

ALSO ATTENDING THE PRESS CONFERENCE WERE THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MRS AGNES ALLCOCK, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HKAAA, MR WILLIAM KO.

THE RACE IS SPONSORED BY DEL MONTE, CATHAY PACIFIC, NEW BALANCE, WATSON’S DISTILLED WATER AND THE INTERNATIONAL HERALD TRIBUNE.

---0------

TUESAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

14 SEMINAR ON TRIAD ACTIVITIES * * * t *

YOUNG PEOPLE WILL BE ABLE TO LEARN ABOUT THE REAL NATURE OF TRIADS AT A SEMINAR TO BE HELD AT THE COMMUNITY HALL OF HONG KONG CARITAS, CAINE ROAD ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 21) AFTERNOON.

CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, MR WONG CHUNG-YING, SAID THE SEMINAR WOULD HELP YOUNG PEOPLE TO UNDERSTAND THE GRAVE CONSEQUENCES OF TRIAD INVOLVEMENT DESPITE THE "HERO" IMAGE OF TRIAD LEADERS IN SOME MOVIES.

POLICE REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE ANTI-TRIAD SECTION, MR YUEN CHUNG-BIU AND MR CHONG NAM-HOI, WILL BRIEF PARTICIPANTS ON TRIAD ACTIVITIES, WHILE AN OUTREACH SOCIAL WORKER OF Y.M.C.A., MR CHUN PINGKIT, WILL TALK ABOUT TRIAD INFILTRATION IN SCHOOLS AND RELATED COUNSELLING SERVICES.

A RESIDENT WHO HAD BEEN VICTIMISED BY TRIADS WILL TELL OF HIS OWN EXPERIENCE AT THE SEMINAR AND A REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR CHU CHI-KEUNG, WILL SPEAK ON CUSTODIAL SENTENCES FOR PEOPLE CONVICTED OF TRIAD CRIMES.

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, ESPECIALLY STUDENTS AND PARENTS, ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND THE SEMINAR WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.

A FIGHT CRIME SCHOLARSHIP AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AFTERWARDS. A NUMBER OF STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY SERVICES.

THE SEMINAR AND AWARD SCHEME ARE PART OF THE PROGRAMME ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE THIS YEAR.

ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SEMINAR CAN BE MADE ON 5-8523478.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SEMINAR ON TRIADS AND THE FIGHT CRIME SCHOLARSHIP AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY STARTING AT 2 PM THIS SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 21) AT THE COMMUNITY HALL OF HONG KONG CARITAS IN CAINE ROAD.

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/15

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

- -15 -

HISTORY OF CHEUNG CHAU ON EXHIBIT

*****

AN EXHIBITION TRACING THE RAPIDLY CHANGING FACES OF CHEUNG CHAU WILL BE HELD FROM TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) TO NOVEMBER 22 (SUNDAY) AT THE CHEUNG CHAU RURAL COMMITTEE YOUTH CENTRE, TUNG WAN.

THE EXHIBITION IS TO MARK THE COMPLETION OF THE "ISLANDS ROOT PROJECT" ON CHEUNG CHAU ORGANISED BY THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION.

AN OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT THE VENUE TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) AT 3.30 PM AND THE ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MR JOHN SHERWIN, WILL OFFICIATE.

THERE WILL BE A DISPLAY TO SHOW THE CHANGES ALONG THE WEST COAST OF CHEUNG CHAU SUCH AS LAND USE PATTERN AND RECLAMATION DEVELOPMENT, AND A SLIDE SHOW ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF FISHING VILLAGES ON THE ISLAND.

TWO SECONDARY SCHOOLS ON CHEUNG CHAU, CARITAS ST. PAUL PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOL AND CHEUNG CHAU GOVERNMENT MIDDLE SCHOOL, TOOK PART IN THE PROJECT. STUDENTS OF THE SCHOOLS STARTED TO DRAFT PLANS FIVE MONTHS AGO, UNDERTOOK RESEARCH DURING THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS AND PRODUCED THE EXHIBITS IN THE PAST TWO MONTHS.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE SAID: "THE AIM OF THE 'ISLANDS ROOT PROJECT’ IS TO AROUSE ISLANDERS’ INTEREST TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THEIR DISTRICT SO AS TO STRENGTHEN THEIR SENSE OF BELONGING."

"THE CHEUNG CHAU PROJECT IS A PILOT ONE AND SIMILAR PROJECTS WILL BE HELD ON OTHER ISLANDS," HE ADDED.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE "ISLANDS ROOT PROJECT" EXHIBITION WHICH WILL BF. HELD AT THE CHEUNG CHAU RURAL COMMITTEE YOUTH CENTRE, TUNG WAN AT 3.30 PM TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).

A PRESS LAUNCH, "CLEMENTI", WILL LEAVE THE MARINE DEPARTMENT PIER IN CENTRAL FOR CHEUNG CHAU AT 2 PM. INFORMATION OFFICER, MR RAYMOND TAM, WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

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/16

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

ENDANGERED ANIMALS AND BIRD SET FREE

*****

THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY) RELEASED THREE ENDANGERED ANIMALS AND A RARE BIRD IN THE REMOTE PART OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.

THESE SPECIES, PROTECTED UNDER THE ANIMALS AND PLANTS (PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES) ORDINANCE, INCLUDE THREE PANGOLINS AND A SHORT-EARED OWL. THEY WERE SEIZED TOGETHER WITH ONE DEAD OWL AND 12 LIVE GIANT SALAMANDERS BY THE POLICE AT AN ENTRY POINT ON THE BORDER ON SUNDAY DURING A ROUTINE OPERATION.

THE GIANT SALAMANDERS, NOW IN THE DEPARTMENT’S CUSTODY, WILL BE SENT BACK TO THE CONSERVATION AUTHORITIES IN CHINA AS SOON AS ARRANGEMENTS ARE FINALISED.

THE DEPARTMENT'S SENIOR CONSERVATION OFFICER, MR M. K. CHEUNG, REMINDED THE PUBLIC THAT IT IS AN OFFENCE TO POSSESS, IMPORT OR EXPORT ENDANGERED SPECIES OF ANIMALS AND PLANTS WITHOUT PRIOR AUTHORISATION OF THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES.

"FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE LAW MAY LEAD TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $5,000 ON CONVICTION FOR THE FIRST OFFENCE, AND $10,000 AND SIX MONTHS' IMPRISONMENT FOR A REPEATED OFFENCE," HE WARNED.

SO FAR THIS YEAR, MR CHEUNG SAID, SOME 320 PEOPLE HAVE BEEN PROSECUTED FOR VIOLATING THE ORDINANCE. MANY OF THE CASES CONCERNED THE ILLEGAL IMPORTATIONS OF OWLS, KESTRELS, PARROTS, PANGOLINS, GIANT SALAMANDERS, AND STUFFED SPECIMENS OF SEA TURTLES AND CROCODILES.

FINES TOTALLING $154,200 HAVE BEEN IMPOSED AND, IN ALL CASES, THE ENDANGERED SPECIES HAVE BEEN CONFISCATED, HE ADDED.

- - 0 - -

ROYAL OBSERVATORY CALENDAR HAS MEDIA THEME * * * *

"METEOROLOGY AND THE MEDIA" IS THE THEME OF THE ROYAL OBERVATORY’S WALL CALENDAR FOR 1988 TO SHOW APPRECIATION OF THE MEDIA’S EXCELLENT WORK IN HELPING TO PROVIDE ACCURATE WEATHER INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC.

THE BILINGUAL CALENDAR, ON SALE NOW AT $32 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING IN CENTRAL, CONTAINS BASIC INFORMATION ON CLIMATOLOGY, ASTRONOMICAL EVENTS AND TIDES, AS WELL AS USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS FOR WEATHER AND OTHER GEOPHYSICAL INFORMATION.

/ALSO INCLUDED

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17t 1987

- 17

ALSO INCLUDED IS A SELECTION OF COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHS DEPICTING THE ESSENTIAL LINK — THE MEDIA — BETWEEN THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY AND ITS WEATHER SERVICES ON THE ONE HAND AND THE COMMUNITY AND USERS OF THE WEATHER INFORMATION ON THE OTHER.

THE ATTRACTIVE CALENDAR, WHICH WOULD MAKE AN IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT, IS ALSO AVAILABLE FROM THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY AT 134A, NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES PUBLISHING SUB-DIVISION SAID PURCHASERS OF THE CALENDAR WOULD HAVE THE OPTION OF BUYING A COPY OF THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY'S CENTENARY PUBLICATION, “FROM TIME BALL TO ATOMIC CLOCK”, AT A REDUCED PRICE OF $19.

THE BOOK, WHICH NORMALLY COSTS $34 A COPY, TRACES THE HISTORY OF THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY AND ITS ACHIEVEMENTS FOR OVER 100 YEARS.

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MAGAZINE HIGHLIGHTS PEDESTRIAN SAFETY * ♦ ♦ ♦

THE SIXTH ISSUE OF THE ROAD SAFETY QUARTERLY HAS BEEN PUBLISHED, AND ITS MAIN THEME IS PEDESTRIAN'SAFETY.

THE QUARTERLY IS A BILINGUAL PUBLICATION DISTRIBUTED FREE TO THE PUBLIC, WITH THE OVERALL AIM OF INCREASING SAFETY AWARENESS AMONG ROAD USERS.

”IN HONG KONG, ACCIDENTS INVOLVING PEDESTRIANS ACCOUNT FOR THE GREATEST NUMBER OF INJURIES RESULTING FROM ROAD ACCIDENTS”, A ROAD SAFETY COUNCIL SPOKESMAN SAID.

’’EVERYONE SHOULD TAKE TIME TO STUDY THE SECTION ON PEDESTRIANS IN THE NEW ROAD USERS’ CODE”, HE ADDED.

ARTICLES IN THE CURRENT ISSUE INCLUDE KEY POINTS FOR PEDESTRIANS TO REMEMBER, CARTOONS TO DRIVE HOME THE SAFETY MESSAGES AND SOME ACCIDENT CASE STORIES.

CALTEX OIL HONG KONG LTD SPONSORS THE EDITORIAL AND COMPILATION WORK FOR THE PUBLICATION.

COPIES ARE DISTRIBUTED THROUGH DISTRICT OFFICES, TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT LICENCING OFFICES, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AND PUBLIC LIBRARIES.

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/18........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17,

1987

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS SMOKE-OUT

« * « * »

MEMBERS OF THE SOCIAL SERVICES AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION COMMITTEE OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE SMOKE-OUT DAY PROGRAMME IN THE DISTRICT AT A MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).

THE PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE AN EXHIBITION, HEALTH CHECK-UP AND A SERIES OF LECTURES.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO CONSIDER APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS FOR YOUTH ACTIVITIES AND FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION.

THE MEETING WILL BE HELD IN THE MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, SECOND FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, 174-208 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, TSUEN WAN. IT WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING

- - 0 - -

STREET SLEEPER PROBLEMS UNDER STUDY

» » » t »

THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY BUILDING AND SERVICES COMMITTEE WILL MEET ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 19) TO DISCUSS PROBLEMS CONCERNING STREET SLEEPERS IN THE DISTRICT.

THE COMMITTEE WILL STUDY VARIOUS SUGGESTIONS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF HOUSING THESE STREET SLEEPERS AND WILL REFLECT ITS VIEWS TO THE GOVERNMENT LATER.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO BE ASKED TO ENDORSE A PROJECT FOR PRODUCING A VIDEO FOR CIVIC EDUCATION PURPOSE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING STARTING AT 2.30 PM ON THURSDAY AT THE CONFERENCE ROOM, 14/F., HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL.

- - 0 - -

/19

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

19 -

MARINE SAND DREDGING, CABLE LAYING AUTHORISED

i » » » »

THE GOVERNMENT HAS GIVEN THE GO-AHEAD FOR DREDGING MARINE SAND NEAR LANTAU AND TSING YI AND FOR LAYING A CABLE AT DEEP WATER BAY.

TO PROVIDE FILL MATERIAL FOR PRESENT AND FUTURE RECLAMATIONS, MARINE SAND WILL BE EXTRACTED WITHIN TWO AREAS OF ABOUT 847.4 AND 748.9 HECTARES OF FORESHORE AND SEABED LOCATED TO THE NORTH OF LANTAU AND TO THE SOUTH OF TSING YI.

THE AUTHORISATION GIVEN TO HONGKONG ELECTRIC COMPANY TO LAY SECTIONS OF A 132-KILOVOLT CABLE AT DEEP WATER BAY IS TO MEET THE INCREASING DEMAND FOR ELECTRICITY IN THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF HONG KONG ISLAND.

IT IS PART OF THE SECOND PHASE OF THE NEW CABLE ROUTE TO LINK THE WONG CHUK HANG ZONE SUB-STATION WITH THE PROPOSED CHUNG HOM KOK ZONE SUB-STATTON.

WORK IS EXPECTED TO START IN DECEMBER AND BE COMPLETED IN ABOUT ONE YEAR.

A TOTAL OF 1,290 SQUARE METRES OF FORESHORE AND SEABED AT TWO AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED.

NOTICES OF AUTHORISATION HAVE BEEN PUBLISHED IN THE LATEST GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.

ANY WRITTEN CLAIM FOR COMPENSATION SHOULD BE SENT TO THE DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS WITHIN ONE YEAR.

------o-------

URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTIONS IN CHOI HUNG ESTATE » * » » *

FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 20), TWO ROAD SECTIONS IN CHOI HUNG ESTATE WILL BE MADE 7 AM TO MIDNIGHT DAILY URBAN CLEARWAYS.

THEY ARE :

* LUK LAU AVENUE BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH HAMMER HILL ROAD AND A POINT ABOUT 40 METRES EAST OF THE SAME JUNCTION, AND

» HUNG MUI AVENUE BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WLTH LUK LAU AVENUE AND A POINT ABOUT 10 METRES NORTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION.

WITHIN THESE URBAN CLEARWAYS, NO VEHICLE WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS.

AT THE SAME TIME, THE EXISTING 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTION ON LUK LAU AVENUE WILL BE LIFTED.

- - 0 -

/2O

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987

- 20

PROHIBITED ROAD ZONES IN WAN CHAI

» » >

THE SOUTHBOUND SECTION OF TONNOCHY ROAD IN WAN CHAI BETWEEN SEAFRONT ROAD AND HARBOUR ROAD WILL BE DESIGNATED A PROHIBITED ZONE TO ALL VEHICLES OR COMBINATIONS OF VEHICLES OVER SEVEN METRES LONG FOR ABOUT THREE WEEKS FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 20). THIS WILL FACILITATE EMERGENCY DRAINAGE REPAIR WORK.

FROM 10 AM THE NEXT DAY (SATURDAY), THE EXISTING BAN THAT NO VEHICLE OVER FOUR TONNES GROSS IS ALLOWED TO ENTER HEARD STREET BETWEEN WAN CHAI ROAD AND JOHNSTON ROAD WILL BE EXTENDED FOR TWO MORE MONTHS BECAUSE OF ROAD WORKS.

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URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTION IN SHEUNG SHUI ♦ » » ♦ »

TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW, THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF LUNG SUM AVENUE IN SHEUNG SHUI BETWEEN SAN FAT STREET AND SAN HONG STREET WILL BE MADE A PEAK-HOUR (I.E. 7 TO 10 AM AND 4 TO 7 PM) DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 20).

NO VEHICLE WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP WITHIN THE URBAN CLEARWAY FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS.

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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING :

CS CONFIDENT MAJORITY WILL ACCEPT REPORT ................ 1

LEGCO VIEWS WTT.T. BE TAKEN FULLY INTO ACCOUNT........... 4

DISCRETION URGED IN ASSESSING PUBLIC VIEWS .............. 4

SURVEY REPORT "NOT WORTH ITS PAPER" ..................... 6

SPIRIT OF COMPROMISE SHOULD PREVAIL ..................... 7

SURVEY REPORT FULFILLED ITS FUNCTION .................... 9

SURVEY REPORT IS SCIENTIFIC AND ACCEPTABLE ............. 11

ACCUSATIONS OF FABRICATION ARE MISPLACED ............... 12

FOCUS ON THREE-TIER SYSTEM ............................. 13

POLITICAL CHANGES SHOULD CONFORM WITH MAJORITY WISH .... 15

POLITICAL INCLINATION CONSENSUS-ORIENTED ............... 16

PAY MORE ATTENTION TO QUALITY OF VIEWS ................. 18

SURVEY OFFICE DID AN EXCELLENT JOB ..................... 19

STI .ENT MAJORITY SATISFIED WITH STATUS QUO............. 21

LEGAL SYSTEM CONTRIBUTED TO HK'S SUCCESS .................. 23

QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY RESULTS RELEASED ................ 24

PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE TO HOLD OPEN HEARINGS............ 27

ONE-WAY TOLL ALSO APPLIES TO TAXIS ........................ 27

MORE CARE-AND-ATTENTION PLACES BEING PLANNED .............. 28

COUNCIL TO LOOK AFTER SM.iLL INVESTORS PROPOSED ........... 28

URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTIONS ON HONG KONG ISLAND............ 29

STORAGE SITES TO LET BY TENDER............................. 30

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

CS CONFIDENT MAJORITY WILL ACCEPT REPORT

* * * * *

THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) HE IS CONFIDENT THAT THE MAJORITY OF HONG KONG PEOPLE WILL ACCEPT THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT FOR WHAT IT IS: "AN IMPARTIAL RECORD OF THE VIEWS THAT HAVE BEEN EXPRESSED -- NO MORE, NO LESS. "

IN WINDING UP THE DEBATE ON THE REPORT, WHICH COLLATED THE PUBLIC’S VIEWS ON THE GREEN PAPER ON THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT, MR FORD MADE THE FOLLOWING POINTS:

» THE GOVERNMENT HAD APPROACHED THE SURVEY ON THF GREEN PAPER WITH A COMPLETELY OPEN MIND;

* THE GOVERNMENT HAD NOT MANIPULATED PUBLIC OPINION;

t IT WAS NOT FOR THE SURVEY OFFICE TO ASSESS THE VIEWS EXPRESSED OR DRAW CONCLUSIONS FROM THEM;

* ALL SUBMISSIONS HAD BEEN INCLUDED IN THE REPORT, ALL HAD BEEN FAITHFULLY REPORTED,

MR FORD SAID THAT IN THE DEBATE MANY MEMBERS HAD EXPRESSED THEIR FIRM CONVICTION IN THE INTEGRITY OF THE GREEN PAPER SURVEY AND OF THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT.

HOWEVER, IT APPEARED SOME PEOPLE MISUNDERSTOOD THE ROLE OF THE SURVEY OFFICE. "IT IS A MISUNDERSTANDING WHICH SEEMS TO BE SHARED BY MANY COMMENTATORS ON THE REPORT AND JUDGING BY SOME OF THE COMMENTS MADE THIS AFTERNOON, EVEN BY A FEW MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL," HE SAID.

THE TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE SURVEY OFFICE WERE VERY CLEAR, WHICH WERE TO INVITE, RECEIVE AND RECORD ALL VIEWS EXPRESSED IN WRITING, AND TO SUBMIT TO THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL AN IMPARTIAL AND ACCURATE REPORT COLLATING AND PRESENTING ALL SUCH VIEWS.

IN THEIR 12-PAGE REPORT — WHICH HE SAID HAD, OUTSIDE THE COUNCIL, RECEIVED SCANT ATTENTION OVER THE PAST TWO WEEKS -- THF TWO INDEPENDENT MONITORS HAD CONCLUDED THAT "THE SURVEY OFFICE HAS PROPERLY, ACCURATELY AND IMPARTIALLY CARRIED OUT ITS DUTIES AND FOLLOWED THE PROCEDURES PRESCRIBED IN ITS TERMS OF REFERENCE."

MR FORD SAID IT WAS NOW FOR MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL TO TAKE CAREFUL NOTE OF THE VIEWS WHICH WERE INCLUDED IN THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT AND THE COMMENTS WHICH HAD BEEN MADE ON THE REPORT INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE CHAMBER AND TO TAKE THEM INTO ACCOUNT WHEN DECIDING WHAT ADVICE TO GIVE ON WHAT CHANGES SHOULD BF MADE TO THE SYSTEM OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT IN 1988.

/"WHEN THE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

WHEN THE WHITE PAPER IS PUBLISHED NEXT YEAR, THE PEOPLE OF H(NG KONG WILL BE ABLE TO SEE FOR THEMSELVES WHETHER THEIR VIEWS AND Tdl'lE1 NEEDS HAVE INDEED BEEN FULLY TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT," HE ADDED.

MR FORD SAID THAT THOSE WHO HAD CRITICISED THE REPORT ON THE BASIS OF ITS PRESENTATION WERE SOMEWHAT MISSING THE POINT.

"WHETHER ONE TYPE OF SUBMISSION IS CATEGORISED IN ONE WAY OR ANOTHER, WHETHER SIGNATURE CAMPAIGNS ARE TREATED DIFFERENTLY FROM PRINTED FORMS, WHETHER PRINTED FORMS SHOULD HAVE BEEN EXCLUDED FROM THF TABLES OF STATISTICS ARE NOT MATTERS OF SUCH MONUMENTAL IMPORTANCE AS SOME MEMBERS HAVE SUGGESTED," HE SAID.

"WHAT IS IMPORTANT IS THAT ALL SUBMISSIONS HAVE BEEN INCLUDED, ALL HAVE BEEN FAITHFULLY REPORTED AND ARE THERE FOR ALL TO SEE.”

HE NOTED THAT THE MONITORS HAD BEEN SATISFIED WITH THE CLASSIFICATION OF SUBMISSIONS DECIDED ON BY THE SURVEY OFFICE.

MR FORD REFUTED ACCUSATIONS MADE OUTSIDE THE COUNCIL THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD DELIBERATELY MANIPULATED PUBLIC OPINION TO MEET ITS OWN ENDS AND HAD DECEIVED THE PEOPLE.

"I AM SURE THAT NO ONE WOULD EXPECT ME, AS THE GOVERNMENT’S CHIEF SPOKESMAN IN THIS COUNCIL, TO PRODUCE LAME EXCUSES OR TO TRY TO DICK THE ISSUE," HE SAID.

"OUR CRITICS HAVE SOUGHT TO CREDIT US WITH A DEVIOUSNESS WHICH IS ALMOST BEYOND BELIEF. IT IS CERTAINLY BEYOND OUR CAPABILITY."

MR FORD SAID THE WORD "CREDIBILITY" HAD BEEN MUCH USED RECENTLY AND SUGGESTED THAT IT WAS NOT THE GOVERNMENT’S CREDIBILITY WHICH WAS NOW IN QUESTION BUT THE CREDIBILITY OF THOSE WHO SOUGHT TO CONCOCT THE CONSPIRACY THEORY.

"FOR WHAT THEY ARE SUGGESTING IS THAT THIS GOVERNMENT HAS DELIBERATELY WRITTEN A GREEN PAPER IN A CONFUSING WAY TO MISLEAD THE PUBLIC OF HONG KONG. IT HAS THEN SET UP A SURVEY OFFICE WITH THE DELIBERATE INTENTION OF DISTORTING THE STATISTICS IT PRODUCED TO SUIT THE SO-CALLED WISHES OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT.

"DO PEOPLE WHO MAKE SUCH ACCUSATIONS REALLY BELIEVE THAT THERE HAS BEEN SUCH A CONSPIRACY?

"DO THEY REALLY BELIEVE THAT THE MONITORS, WHO HAD BEEN CLOSELY INVOLVED AT EVERY STAGE OF THE SURVEY, WOULD BE A PARTY TO A PLOT TO DELIBERATELY DECEIVE THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG?"

MR FORD SAID THE TRUTH WAS THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD APPROACHED THE SURVEY ON THE GREEN PAPER WITH A COMPLETELY OPEN MIND.

/"WE HAVE .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

- 3 -

"WE HAVE MADE IT VERY CLEAR THAT WE HAD NO PRECONCEIVED IDEAS ON THE OUTCOME OF THE CONSULTATION EXERCISE AND THAT WE WOULD NOT LEAD PUBLIC OPINION," HE SAID.

"INDEED, AT THE TIME OF THE PUBLICATION OF THE GREEN PAPER, WE WERE OFTEN CRITICISED FOR BEING TOO NEUTRAL.

"WE HAVE SOUGHT THE WIDEST POSSIBLE PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE ISSUES IT CONTAINS.

"THAT RESPONSE HAS BEEN OF A SCALE UNPRECEDENTED IN HONG KONG’S HISTORY."

THE RESPONSE HAD BEEN METICULOUSLY RECORDED BY AN INDEPEDENT SURVEY OFFICE, UNDER THE CLOSE SCRUTINY OF INDEPENDENT MONITORS OF THE HIGHEST CALIBRE AND INTEGRITY.

THE PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS COMMISSIONED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE, OVER WHICH THE GOVERNMENT HAD HAD NO INFLUENCE WHATSOEVER, HAD BEEN CONDUCTED IMPARTIALLY BY PROFESSIONALS IN THEIR OWN FIELD.

"APART FROM LAYING DOWN THE TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE SURVEY OFFICE BEFORE THE WHOLE EXERCISE STARTED, THE GOVERNMENT HAS IN NO WAY SOUGHT TO INFLUENCE THE WAY IN WHICH THE SURVEY OFFICE CARRIED OUT ITS TASK," HE STRESSED.

"AGAINST THIS BACKGROUND, THE CONSPIRACY THEORY CAN BE SEEN FOR WHAT IT IS. IT WOULD SEEM THAT THOSE WHO PURSUE IT DO SO BECAUSE THE CONCLUSIONS THEY HAVE CHOSEN TO DRAW FROM THE FACTS PRESENTED IN THE REPORT ARE NOT TO THEIR LIKING.

"IT FURTHER APPEARS THAT THE ONLY REPORT WHICH WOULD HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED BY THOSE CRITICS OUTSIDE THIS COUNCIL IS ONE WHICH IS TOTALLY IN ACCORD WITH THEIR OWN VIEWS."

TURNING TO THE COMMENTS THAT HAD BEEN MADE CONCERNING THE AGB MCNAIR SURVEYS, WHICH HE SAID HAD TAKEN UP MUCH OF MEMBERS’ TIME IN THE DEBATE, MR FORD SAID THAT IN ANY SURVEY OF THIS NATURE THERE WOULD INEVITABLY BE DIFFERENT JUDGEMENTS AS TO HOW PRECISELY ANY PARTICULAR QUESTION SHOULD BE PUT.

"I DO NOT BELIEVE IT IS PART OF MY TASK TO DEFEND THE PROFESSIONAL JUDGEMENT OF THE COMPANY OR THE APPROACH IT HAS ADOPTED," HE SAID.

"LISTENING TO MEMBERS’ SPEECHES THIS AFTERNOON, IT IS CLEAR THAT WHILST THERE IS STRONG CRITICISM FROM SOME MEMBERS, OTHERS HAVE BEEN SATISFIED BY THE CAREFUL EXPLANATIONS WHICH THE COMPANY HAS PROVIDED.

"I SHOULD ASSURE MEMBERS THAT BOTH VIEWS WILL OF COURSE BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT BY THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL WHEN CONSIDERING THE REPORT."

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

LEGCO VIEWS WILL BE TAKEN FULLY INTO ACCOUNT » » » ♦

THE SENIOR MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE HON LYDIA DUNN, SAID THAT COUNCILLORS WHO ARE ALSO MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL WILL FULLY TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE DEBATE TODAY (WEDNESDAY) ON THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT.

MISS DUNN SAID THOSE WHO WERE MEMBERS OF BOTH COUNCILS HAD DECIDED THAT IT WOULD NOT BE APPROPRIATE FOR THEM TO SPEAK ON THE MOTION. THIS WAS BECAUSE THE DECISIONS ON WHAT SHOULD GO INTO THE WHITE PAPER IN THE LIGHT OF THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON THE GREEN PAPER OPTIONS HAD YET TO BE MADE BY THE GOVERNOR WITH THE ADVICE OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL.

HOWEVER, SHE EMPHASISED THAT THEY WOULD LISTEN KEENLY AND ATTENTIVELY, AND WOULD FULLY TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE VIEWS EXPRESSED, WHEN THEY TENDERED THEIR ADVICE IN THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL.

MISS DUNN WAS MOVING A MOTION IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THAT THE ’’COUNCIL TAKES NOTE OF THE REPORT OF THE SURVEY OFFICE AND THE REPORT OF THE MONITORS: PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER: THE 1987 REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENTS IN REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT”.

SHE SAID THAT THE DEBATE WOULD GIVE MEMBERS THE OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK ON THE VERY IMPRESSIVE PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER AND TO DEVELOP FURTHER THEIR OWN VIEWS. THIRTY-ONE MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE DEBATE.

-------0---------

DISCRETION URGED IN ASSESSING PUBLIC VIEWS

*****

THE GOVERNOR AND MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE ASSESSING THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT, MUST EXERCISE ASSIGNING VARYING WEIGHTS AND SIGNIFICANCE TO THE ACCORDANCE WITH THE DIFFERENT FORMS OF EXPRESSION COLLECTED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE, DR THE HON HO KAM-FAI

COUNCIL, IN

DISCRETION IN FINDINGS TN SENT TO OR SAID IN THE

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

DR HO WAS LEADING OFF DEBATE ON THE MOTION PUT BY THE SENIOR MEMBER, THE HON LYDIA DUNN, THAT THE ’’COUNCIL TAKES NOTE OF THE REPORT OF THE SURVEY OFFICE AND THE REPORT OF THE MONITORS: PUBLIC' RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER: THE 1987 REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENTS IN REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT.”

HE POINTED OUT THAT DIFFERENT FORMS OF EXPRESSION CARRY DIFFERENT DEGREES OF SELF-IN JTI ATIVE, SUBJECTIVITY AND STRENGTH OF CONVICTION OF RESPONDENTS.

/’•IN OTHER............

WEDNESDAY, NOV JUBER 18, 1987

- 5 -

IN OTHER WORDS, THE AMOUNT OF PASSIVITY, COLLUSION OR MANIPULATION TENDS TO BE MINIMUM IN INDIVIDUAL SPEECHES AND INDIVIDUAL WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS, BUT MORE PREVALENT IN SIGNATURE CAMPAIGNS AND PRE-PRINTED IDENTICAL LETTERS, WITH WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS BY SMALL GROUPS OF INDIVIDUALS IN BETWEEN," DR HO SAID.

"FURTHERMORE, THE INFERENCES DRAWN FROM A SURVEY INVOLVING A PROBABILITY SAMPLING CAN BE GENERALISED WITH MUCH MORE VALIDITY AND AUTHORITY THAN THOSE FROM A • SURVEY INVOLVING A NON-PROBABILITY SAMPLING.

"IN THE SAME VEIN, THE CONCLUSIONS DERIVED FROM A SURVEY SAMPLED ON A GENERAL POPULATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO MUCH LESS LIMITATIONS THAN THOSE OF A SURVEY SAMPLED ON A SPECIFIC POPULATION GROUP," HE CONTINUED.

DR HO COMMENDED THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT TO THE PUBLIC BECAUSE HE FELT THAT THE OFFICE HAD ADHERED CONSCIENTIOUSLY TO ITS TERMS OF REFERENCE BOTH IN GATHERING PUBLIC OPINION AND VIEWS SUBMITTED TO IT OR THOSE EXPRESSED IN THE MEDIA, AND IN CLASSIFYING, TABULATING, SUMMARISING AND PRESENTING THE VIEWS FACTUALLY IN A SYSTEMATIC AND COMPREHENSIBLE MANNER.

ALSO, THE OFFICE REFRAINED FROM INTERPRETING AND INFERRING FROM THE DATA COLLECTED. IT RESPECTED THE INDEPENDENT AND PROFESSIONAL STATUS OF AGB MCNAIR HK LTD, A RESEARCH FIRM WITH AN INTERNATIONAL STANDING IN PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS, AND LEFT THE FIRM TO CARRY OUT ITS JOB WITHOUT INTERFERENCE.

THE TWO INDEPENDENT MONITORS, WHO CLOSELY SUPERVISED THE VARIOUS ASPECTS OF THE WORK OF THE SURVEY OFFICE, WERE ALSO FULLY SATISFIED WITH THE WAY THE COMMISSIONER HAD CONDUCTED THE PUBLIC OPINION COLLECTION EXERCISE, DR HO OBSERVED.

NOTING THAT POL4TICAL REFORMS HAD FAR-REACHING, LONG-TERM SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS, DR HO HOPED THAT THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL, IN DELIBERATING ON THE MOST APPROPRIATE DEVELOPMENTS IN REPERESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT FOR HONG KONG IN 1988, WOULD NOT ONLY MAKE DECISIONS WITH REFERENCE TO THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT, BUT ALSO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT A HOST OF INTERLOCKING CONSIDERATIONS. O

THESE CONSIDERATIONS INCLUDED THE CONTINUOUS STABILITY AND PROSPERITY OF THE TERRITORY; CONVERGENCE WITH THE BASIC LAW, A SMOOTH AND UNEVENTFUL TRANSITION; BUILDING ON THE GOOD FEATURES OF OUR EXISTING SYSTEM; RETAINING OR FURTHER STRENGTHENING OF BUSINESS CONFIDENCE, AND PUBLIC CONFIDENCE IN THE GOVERNMENT AS WELL.

MOREOVER, THE PUBLIC WISH FOR A GRADUAL, STEP BY STEP CHANGE; INCREMENTAL POLITICAL REFORMS ON A WIDER SCOPE RATHER THAN JUST ON DIRECT ELECTIONS; THE NEED FOR AN EFFICIENT, BUT RESPONSIVE GOVERNMENT, AND SUGGESTIONS RAISED IN TODAY’S DEBATE SHOULD ALSO BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT.

DR HO ADDED THAT HIS VIEWS^WERE SHARED AND ENDORSED BY' HIS LEGCO COLLEAGUE, THE HON F.K. HU,*

------o ------ /6.................

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

SURVEY REPORT "NOT WORTH ITS PAPER"

*****

THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT CONTAINED DISTORTIONS WHICH RENDERED IT NOT WORTH THE PAPER IT WAS WRITTEN ON, THE HON K. C. CHAN SAID • TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE DEBATE ON THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT, MR CHAN NOTED THAT SOME 230,000 SIGNATURES WITH IDENTITY CARD NUMBERS VOLUNTARILY SIGNED IN A SIGNATURE CAMPAIGN WERE EXCLUDED.

ON THE OTHER HAND, SOME 70,000 STEREOTYPE LETTERS FROM ORGANISATIONS THAT EMPLOYED THE SIGNATORIES WERE INCLUDED, THUS DISTORTING THE PERCENTAGE OF SUPPORTERS FOR DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988, HE SAID.

MR CHAN ADDED THAT THE SURVEY’S QUESTIONNAIRE CONTAINED TOO MANY DIFFICULT-TO-UNDERSTAND AND LOADED QUESTIONS WHICH 40 TO 45 PER CENT OF THE RESPONDENTS DID NOT UNDERSTAND.

"NO MATTER HOW DILIGENTLY, CONSCIENTIOUSLY AND METICULOUSLY THE SURVEY OFFICE STAFF AND THE MONITORS COMPILED THEIR REPORTS, THE RESULT WOULD BE GARBAGE IN, GARBAGE OUT," HE SAID.

HE OBSERVED THAT BOTH BRITAIN AND CHINA HAD EXPERIENCE IN USING A REFERENDUM. IN 1945, CHINA HELD A PLEBISCITE ON THE INDEPENDENCE OF OUTER MONGOLIA, WHILE IN 1967, BRITAIN HELD A REFERENDUM ON THE GIBRALTAR ISSUE. A MORE RECENT REFERENDUM HELD IN BRITAIN WAS FOR THE ENTRY INTO THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY.

HE SAID THAT IN ALL THESE CASES, THE QUESTION ASKED WAS SIMPLE, JUST APPROVAL OR REJECTION.

HE ADDED THAT ALTHOUGH REFERENDUM WAS NOT A DIRTY WORD, IT WAS RESISTED IN THE STRONGEST TERMS BY BOTH BRITAIN AND CHINA.

ASKING FOR A REFERENDUM AT THIS TIME WOULD BE NEGOTIATING WITH A TIGER FOR ITS SKIN, AND ONE COULD EASILY FORECAST THE REALISTIC OUTCOME,, HE SAID.

MR CHAN REITERATED THAT ALTHOUGH HE WAS AN APPOINTED MEMBER, HE STILL SUPPORTED DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988.

HE SAID THAT IF A BUFFER BETWEEN THE BORDER OF CHINA AND HONG KONG WAS NOT ESTABLISHED BY DIRECT ELECTIONS SO THAT HONG KONG PEOPLE WOULD ADMINISTER HONG KONG, THE CONFIDENCE OF HONG KONG PEOPLE WOULD SUFFER AND THOSE WHO WERE YET INDECISIVE WOULD HAVE TO MAKE UP THEIR MIND AND VOTE WITH THEIR FEET.

/REFERRING TO .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

REFERRING TO THE SPEECHES BY MEMBERS DURING THE POLICY DEBATE, HE SAID THE USE OF THE TERM "POLITICAL ARENA" WAS QUITE APPROPRIATE, AS THERE WERE NOT ONLY GLADIATORS FIGHTING AGAINST GLADIATORS BUT ALSO GLADIATORS KILLING OR KILLED BY FIERCE ANIMALS, SUCH AS LIONS AND TIGERS.

HE SAID CHINESE PEOPLE USED THE "TIGER" TO REPRESENT GENERALS AND ARMED FORCES, BUT IT WAS DEFINITELY NOT SUITABLE FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE. HE ALSO QUOTED A PIECE OF CLASSIC CHINESE LITERATURE ABOUT CONFUCIUS TELLING HIS DISCIPLES THAT "HAR8H OR CRUEL ADMINISTRATION WAS FIERCER THAN TIGERS".

- - - - 0 -----

SPIRIT OF COMPROMISE SHOULD PREVAIL t » t * »

HONG KONG PEOPLE SHOULD WORK TOGETHER IN A SPIRIT OF COMPROMISE RATHER THAN OF CONFRONTATION AND MISTRUST, THE HON STEPHEN CHEONG SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

THE PEOPLE SHOULD ADDRESS AND RESOLVE THE MANY PROBLEMS LYING AHEAD OF THEM BY WORKING TOGETHER WITH A SENSE OF DEDICATION AND PRAGMATISM, HE SAID.

IN ORDER TO SURVIVE AS AN AUTONOMOUS POLITY, HONG KONG HAD TO ACHIEVE AND MAINTAIN THE TWIN GOALS OF STABILITY AND PROSPERITY.

MR CHEONG SAID THAT FOR ANYONE, OR ANY PRESSURE GROUP, TO ACT LIKE A WESTERN-STYLE OPPOSITION PARTY IN DISCREDITING THE INTEGRITY OF THE GOVERNMENT THROUGH UNSUBSTANTIATED ALLEGATIONS — SUCH AS ACCUSING THE GOVERNOR OF INVITING INTERVENTION FROM PEKING — TENDED TO INDICATE THAT NOT ENOUGH CONSIDERATION HAD BEEN GIVEN TO HONG KONG REALITIES.

* "IF THE REALITY OF HONG KONG IS SUCH THAT THERE CAN BE NO READY ALTERNATIVE TO THE GOVERNMENT AS IT IS AT PRESENT CONSTITUTED, IT WOULD SEEM REASONABLE FOR ALL OF US TO CONSIDER ACCEPTING A ROLE IN PERFORMING PUBLIC DUTIES SOMEWHAT DIFFERENT FROM THAT OF OUR COUNTERPARTS IN WESTERN DEMOCRACIES," HE SAID.

IN WESTERN DEMOCRACIES OPPOSITION PARTIES AIMED AT BRINGING DOWN THE PARTY IN POWER BY DISCREDITING THE ADMINISTRATION AND ITS POLICIES, WITH A VIEW TO GETTING INTO POWER THEMSELVES.

HE BELIEVED THAT THIS SCENARIO WOULD NOT BE FEASIBLE IN HONG KONG, BECAUSE IT COULD NEVER BE AN INDEPENDENT COUNTRY.

/HE SAID

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

HE SAID THAT IF THE INTEGRITY OF THE GOVERNMENT WAS CALLED SERIOUSLY INTO QUESTION THE GOVERNMENT WOULD NOT FALL, BUT IT WOULD i EASE TO FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY BECAUSE IT WOULD NO LONGER BE TRUSTED..

MR CHEONG SAID THAT SINCE PUBLICATION ON THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT, ATTEMPTS HAD BEEN MADE TO WAGE A CAMPAIGN WITH INTENT TO DISCREDIT THE GOVERNMENT.

"IT HAS BEEN REPEATEDLY ALLEGED IN ORGANISED FORA AS WELL AS THROUGH ARTICLES PUBLISHED IN THE MEDIA THAT THE GOVERNMENT, THROUGH THE SURVEY OFFICE AND IN COLLUSION WITH THE MARKET RESEARCH FIRM, HAD PURPOSELY MISLED THE COMMUNITY ON THE ISSUE OF SUPPORT FOR DIRECT ELECTIONS TO THIS CHAMBER IN 1988," HE SAID.

DESPITE STRONG VOCAL OBJECTIONS BY A FEW OVER THE DESIGN OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE ON THE ISSUE OF INTRODUCING DIRECT ELECTIONS, THERE WERE VERY FEW CRITICISMS OVER THE DESIGN OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE ON OTHER RELATED AND EQUALLY IMPORTANT ISSUES RAISED IN THE GREEN PAPER.

THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE INDICATED A GENERAL TREND THAT THE PEOPLE DID NOT WANT DRASTIC CHANGES TO BE INTRODUCED IMMEDIATELY, HE SAID.

THIS TREND WAS APPARENT IN ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS WHICH HAD SOLICITED VIEWS ON POSSIBLE CHANGES TO THE DISTRICT BOARDS, MUNICIPAL COUNCILS, THE PRESIDENCY OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, AND THE VOTING AGE.

"WE MUST TAKE ACCOUNT OF THEIR VIEWS IN ITS TOTAL CONTEXT AND SHOULD NOT LOOK IN ISOLATION AT ONE PARTICULAR ELEMENT IN THE EQUATION," HE SAID.

MR CHEONG ALSO SAID THE REPORTS OF THE INDEPENDENT MONITORS MUST BE OBJECTIVELY TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION BEFORE ANYONE CONDEMNED THE SURVEY' OFFICE REPORT. ‘

THE TWO MONITORS, MR ANDREW SO AND MR F.K. LI, WERE BOTH MEN OF PRINCIPLE AND UNQUESTIONED INTEGRITY, n

"IT IS THEREFORE ONLY RIGHT THAT WE GIVE DUE WEIGHT TO THE QUALITY OF THEIR WORK IN OVERSEEING THE WHOLE PUBLIC OPINION GATHERING EXERCISE," HE SAID.

MR CHEONG SAID IT WAS CRYSTAL CLEAR FROM THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT THAT, IN PRINCIPLE, THERE WAS STRONG SUPPORT FOR AN ELEMENT OF DIRECT ELECTIONS TO BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE SPLITTING THE COMMUNITY WAS THE QUESTION OF TIMING.

/"MAY I .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER l8t 1987

- 9 -

’’MAY I TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO URGE AU, OF US TO TAKE NOTE OF THIS FACT, COOL OUR HEADS, AND EXAMINE SERIOUSLY THE QUESTION OF WHETHER OR NOT IT IS IN THE BEST INTEREST OF HONG KONG TO CONTINUE SQUABBLING OPENLY OVER JUST A FEW YEARS’ DIFFERENCE IN ITS INTRODUCTION,” HE SAID.

IT WAS NO LONGER CONSTRUCTIVE TO CONTINUE TO FOSTER DISRUPTION TO THE GENERALLY HARMONIOUS ATMOSPHERE PREVAILING IN THE COMMUNITY.

'INDEED, NOW IS THE TIME FOR ALL OF US TO START WORKING CLOSER TOGETHER WITH A VIEW TO SECURING FROM THE GOVERNMENT AN ASSURANCE THAT THERE WILL BE A DIRECTLY ELECTED ELEMENT INTRODUCED TO THIS COUNCIL IN EITHER 1991 OR 1992,” HE SAID.

-----0-----

SURVEY REPORT FULFILLED ITS FUNCTION

» * ♦ *

THE SURVEY REPORT HAS FULFILLED ITS FUNCTION OF PRESENTING IN AS MUCH DETAIL AS POSSIBLE THE RESPONSE OF THE HONG KONG PUBLIC TO THE GREEN PAPER, THE HON SELINA CHOW SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

MRS CHOW SAID THE REPORT HAD SET OUT CLEARLY AND FACTUALLY DIFFERENT GROUPS OF VIEWS SUBMITTED BY THE PUBLIC ACCORDING TO THEIR VARIOUS SOURCES AND ORIENTATIONS AND IT ATTEMPTED NO ASSESSMENT AND DREW NO CONCLUSIONS FROM THE VIEWS IT PRESENTED, LEAVING THE READERS MAXIMUM FREEDOM TO DO BOTH.

AS EXPECTED, SHE SAID, THE CONTROVERSY ON DIRECT ELECTIONS WHICH HAD HAUNTED OUR COMMUNITY SINCE THE SIGNING OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION PERSISTED.

"IT WOULD BE QUITE FRUITLESS TO SPLIT HAIRS OVER FIGURES, OR TO JUDGE THE ENTIRE REPORT ON A TABLE OR TWO.”

MRS CHOW SAID THE TEMPTATION TO BE BOGGED DOWN BY A FEW EXTRACTED FIGURES WAS GREAT BUT MUST BE RESISTED.

"MUCH HAS BEEN MADE OF THE 100,000 PRE-PRINTED SUBMISSIONS AND THE 230,000 SIGNATURES.

’’WITH THE GREATEST RESPECT TO THEIR SIGNATORIES, AND WHATEVER THEIR PERSUASION, THEY ARE AFTER ALL ORGANISED VIEWS, WHICH SHOULD NOT BE ASSIGNED THE WEIGHTING OF REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLES OF THE ENTIRE POPULATION."

/SHE SAID

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

- 10 -

SHE SAID TO ARGUE FOR OR AGAINST EITHER SYMPATHY ON THE ASSUMPTION THAT THEY WERE REPRESENTATIVE WAS AT BEST OFF THE MARK, AND AT WORST MISLEADING.

’’THERE IS QUITE ENOUGH DATA IN THE ENTIRE REPORT FOR CERTAIN OBSERVATIONS TO BE DRAWN WHICH WOULD NO DOUBT HELP US IN ASSESSING WHAT THE COMMUNITY REALLY WANTS.”

MRS CHOW SAID THE VOLUMINOUS INFORMATION GIVEN IN THE REPORT POINTED TO A FEW SIGNIFICANT MESSAGES.

FIRSTLY, A LARGE PROPORTION OF OUR COMMUNITY HAD NEITHER THE INTEREST NOR THE KNOWLEDGE IN OUR PRESENT AND FUTURE STATE OF GOVERNMENT. FROM THE VARIOUS SURVEYS, IT WAS SAFE TO ASSUME THAT THIS SEGMENT OF OUR COMMUNITY ACCOUNTED FOR ABOUT ONE THIRD TO 40 PER CENT OF OUR POPULATION.

SECONDLY, THERE WAS A SENSE OF UNCERTAINTY AS TO WHAT EFFECT CHANGES WOULD HAVE ON OUR IMMEDIATE AND LONG TERM FUTURE, ALTHOUGH IT SEEMED TO BE GENERALLY RECOGNISED THAT HONG KONG COULD WITHSTAND CHANGES WITHOUT SACRIFICING OUR STABLILITY TO AN UNACCEPTABLE DEGREE, AND THAT SOME CHANGES WERE CONSIDERED BOTH NECESSARY AND WELCOME.

THIRDLY, THERE WAS NO DOUBT THAT AN OVERWHELMING MAJORITY ENDORSED THE CONCEPT OF DIRECT ELECTIONS.

"THE BONE OF CONTENTION IS THE TIMING OF ITS INTRODUCTION. HERE THE OVERWHELMING MAJORITY DISAPPEARS, AND THE COMMUNITY SEEMS FAIRLY SPLIT OVER THE IDEAL POINT.”

MRS CHOW CITED FOUR SRH SURVEYS WHICH SHOWED THAT THERE WAS A DOWNWARD TREND IN THE SUPPORT OF DIRECT ELECTIONS FROM ABOUT 54 PER CENT TO 42 PER CENT IN THE TWO MONTHS FROM EARLY JULY TO EARLY SEPTEMBER.

AT THE SAME TIME THE PRECENTAGE CALLING FOR NO CHANGE INCREASED FROM 27 PER CENT TO 34 PER CENT, WHILE THOSE WHO OPTED FOR A LITTLE CHANGE DROPPED FROM 30 PER CENT TO 23 PER CENT. THOSE WHO HAD NO OPINION OR WERE UNSURE REMAINED AT 40 PER CENT.

"DURING THE DEBATE ON THE GREEN PAPER, I MADE IT QUITE CLEAR THAT IN SPITE OF ALL MY MISGIVINGS ABOUT DIRECT ELECTION, I WOULD BE QUITE PREPARED TO GO ALONG WITH THE MAJORITY VIEW IF THERE IS CLEAR SUPPORT FOR IT.

"TODAY OUR PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN. WHILE ENDORSING DIRECT ELECTION AS A DESIRABLE CHANGE SOMETIME IN THE FUTURE, THE MAJORITY IS EITHER NOT WILLING OR NOT READY TO INSIST ON DIRECT ELECTION IN 1988. THEY PREFER TO WAIT. I WOULD GO ALONG.”

/HOWEVER, MRS ........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER l8t 1987

HOWEVER, MRS CHOW SAID SINCE THE COMMUNITY HAD COMMITTED ITSELF TO DIRECT ELECTION IN THE LONG TERM, THE SOONER WE STARTED OFF, THE MORE GRADUAL WOULD BE THE PROCESS.

"WE CANNOT AFFORD TO WASTE VALUABLE TIME IN PROCRASTINATION. WE MUST USE THE LIMITED TIME TO HONG KONG’S ADVANTAGE BY LEARNING THE ROPES OF HOW WE CAN BUILD A MORE REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT SKILFULLY AND RESPONSIVELY."

-------0---------

SURVEY REPORT IS SCIENTIFIC AND ACCEPTABLE ♦ » ♦ ♦

THE SURVEY REPORT ON DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988 IS ACCEPTABLE BECAUSE IT IS THE LARGEST, BEST-PUBLICISED, MOST EXTENSIVE, MOST PROLONGED, RELATIVELY LESS BIASED AND MORE SCIENTIFIC OF ALL SURVEYS DONE TO OBTAIN VIEWS ON POLITICAL REFORM.

THIS WAS STATED BY DR THE HON HENRIETTA IP IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

DISMISSING CLAIMS THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD IN SOME WAYS MANIPULATED THE RESULTS, DR IP POINTED OUT THAT, IF ONE FOLLOWED CLOSELY THE MANY TABLES, ONE WOULD BEGIN TO SEE A TREND IN THAT, MORE OFTEN THAN NOT, THE HIGHEST-RANKING CHOICE OR CLOSELY SIMILAR ONES REMAINED THE SAME IRRESPECTIVE OF WHICH CATEGORY OF SUBMISSIONS THEY BELONGED. THE ONLY DEVIATIONS FROM THIS TREND WERE WHERE CONFLICTS OF INTEREST EXISTED WITH THAT CATEGORY OF RESPONDENTS.

"IF WE DO NOT ACCEPT THE RESULT OF THE SURVEY REPORT, WE ARE NOT GIVING DUE RESPECT TO THOSE WHO HAD FAITHFULLY SUBMITTED THEIR VIEWS AND THOSE WHOM WE PURPORT TO REPRESENT," DR IP ADDED.

SHE ALSO ASKED THAT THE SILENT MAJORITY BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT.

"THEY ARE SILENT BECAUSE THEY CONTINUE TO HAVE FAITH IN THE PRESENT GOVERNMENT, IN THEIR ADMINISTRATION AND IN THEIR PROPOSAL OF CHANGES WHETHER POLITICAL OR OTHERWISE IN ENSURING THE PROSPERITY AND STABILITY OF HONG KONG."

DR IP PERSONALLY DID NOT BELIEVE IN DIRECT ELECTIONS FOR HONG KONG AND WAS CONVINCED THAT THE LEGISLATIVE TERM SHOULD BE FOR FOUR YEARS.

- - 0 ----------

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

12 -

ACCUSATIONS OF FABRICATION ARE MISPLACED

*****

THE SURVEY OFFICE HAS ACHIEVED WHAT IT SET OUT TO DO BY PROVIDING IN ITS REPORT A "COMPREHENSIVE AND ACCURATE" ACCOUNT OF ALL THE PUBLIC VIEWS COLLECTED, THE HON RITA FAN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

ACCUSATIONS OF CONSPIRACY AND FABRICATION WERE UNCALLED FOR AND MISPLACED.

"IT IS NOT THE JOB OF THE SURVEY OFFICE TO DRAW CONCLUSIONS, NOR DID IT ATTEMPT TO DO SO,” SHE SAID.

MRS FAN FELT THAT THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT CONTAINED A CONSIDERABLE AMOUNT OF USEFUL AND MEANINGFUL INFORMATION, SUCH AS THAT A CLEAR MAJORITY WOULD LIKE AN ELEMENT OF DIRECT ELECTION IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE GOVERNOR TO PRESIDE OVER THE COUNCIL, THE VOTING AGE TO REMAIN AT 21, AND THE COMPOSITION OF THE PRESENT LEGISLATURE TO CHANGE IN A GRADUAL MANNER.

THESE VIEWS SHOULD BE TAKEN AS A WHOLE, SHE SAID.

"CONCERN FOR CONFLICTING VIEWS ON ONE ISSUE SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO OVERSHADOW THE CLEAR INDICATION OF PUBLIC OPINION ON A NUMBER OF OFTEN EQUALLY SIGNIFICANT AND IMPORTANT ISSUES," SHE ADDED.

MRS FAN SAID SHE DEDUCED FROM SOME OF THE SURVEY FINDINGS THAT, FIRSTLY, MANY PEOPLE WERE REASONABLY HAPPY WITH THE EXISTING STRUCTURES OR WERE NOT LOOKING FOR CHANGES; AND SECONDLY, WHILE MANY PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO SEE DIRECT ELECTIONS INTRODUCED IN 1988, THEY WERE NOT SO STRONGLY MOTIVATED TO THE EXTENT THAT THEY MUST HAVE THIS NEXT YEAR.

"I DO NOT THINK A DELAY OF A FEW YEARS WILL BE UNACCEPTABLE TO THE COMMUNITY," SHE SAID.

WHAT PEOPLE WANTED FROM THE GOVERNMENT WAS A DEFINITE COMMITMENT THAT DIRECT ELECTIONS WOULD BE INTRODUCED IN 1991, AND A CLEARLY DEFINED PROCEDURE FOR SUCH INTRODUCTION, INCLUDING THE NUMBER OF SEATS, THE CONSTITUENCIES AND THE NOMINATION PROCESS, ACCORDING TO MRS FAN.

"IF THE GOVERNMENT FAILED TO MAKE THIS DEFINITE COMMITMENT, THEN THERE IS EVERY LIKELIHOOD THAT THE CREDIBILITY OF THIS ADMINISTRATION MAY BE SUBJECTED TO QUESTION, AND THIS TIME FOR GOOD REASONS," SHE SAID.

MRS FAN STRESSED THE IMPORTANCE OF CIVIC EDUCATION IN THE PREPARATION OF HONG KONG PEOPLE FOR DIRECT ELECTIONS.

/THE SURVEY .......

WEDNESDAY, N0V5XBER 18, 198?

- 13 -

THE SURVEY RESULTS, SHE SAID, HAD ALSO SHOWN CONFUSION EXISTED IN THE MINDS OF MANY PEOPLE ABOUT THE POLITICAL SYSTEM AS WELL AS THE EXTENT OF PUBLIC DISINTEREST IN CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT.

"IF WE ARE TO HOLD A WORTHWHILE DIRECT ELECTION, WE MUST BATTLE AGAINST AND PREVAIL OVER 'INERTIA' AND ’IGNORANCE’,” SHE SAID.

MRS FAN SAID SHE WANTED TO SEE A DIRECT ELECTION CONDUCTED WITH DIGNITY WHERE REASON PREVAILED OVER EMOTION.

SHE WAS CONFIDENT THAT THIS GOAL COULD BE ATTAINED IF PEOPLE DEVELOPED, THROUGH EFFECTIVE CIVIC EDUCATION, ATTITUDES OF FAIR-MINDEDNESS, OBJECTIVITY AND INDEPENDENT THINGKING; AND ALSO DEVELOPED THE POWER TO DISTINGUISH PROPAGANDIST TACTICS FROM VALID REASONS, EMPTY PROMISES FROM ACTUAL PERFORMANCE, AND INSINUATIONS FROM FACTS.

-------0---------

FOCUS ON THREE-TIER SYSTEM

» » » »

THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE MUST BE LOOKED AT IN THE CONTEXT OF THE EVOLUTION OF HONG KONG’S GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE, DR THE HON KIM CHAM SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

IN THIS RESPECT, HE SAID HE WOULD LIKE TO COMMENT ON THE GOVERNMENT’S THREE-TIER SYSTEM.

NOTING THAT VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE DISTRICT BOARDS WERE OVERWHELMINGLY IN FAVOUR OF EXPANSION, DR CHAM SAID THE PRACTICAL SOLUTION WAS THAT THE DB'S SHOULD TAKE DECISIONS AND THE DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE SHOULD IMPLEMENT THEM.

HE ADDED: "THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT BOARD SHOULD INITIALLY BE A MEMBER OF THE DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE, WHERE LATER ON, HE SHOULD TAKE OVER AS CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE.

"THIS WOULD ENSURE BETTER MONITORING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE DISTRICT BOARDS."

ON THE COMPOSITION OF DB’S, DR CHAM SAID THOUGH EXPRESSED VIEWS MIGHT INDICATE A WISH FOR CHANGE, THERE WAS STRONG EVIDENCE FROM THE PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS THAT NO CHANGE WAS PREFERRED.

/HE NOTED

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

HE NOTED THAT THE TWO SURVEYS COMMISSIONED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE INDICATED THAT WELL OVER 30 PER CENT OF THE RESPONDENTS WERE NOT IN FAVOUR OF CHANGING THE PRESENT PROPORTION OF APPOINTED AND ELECTED MEMBERS, AND WELL OVER 44 PER CENT OF THE RESPONDENTS CHOSE THE OPTION THAT URBAN COUNCILLORS SHOULD NOT WITHDRAW FROM THE DISTRICT BOARDS.

ON THE STRUCTURE AND AMALGAMATION OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL AND THE URBAN COUNCIL, DR CHAM FELT THE 'IWO PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS ALSO INDICATED THAT WE SHOULD NOT CHANGE FOR THE SAKE OF CHANGE.

’’FOR THE URBAN COUNCIL, THE TWO PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS REVEAL THAT WELL OVER 35 PER CENT OF THE RESPONDENTS ARE NOT IN FAVOUR OF ANY INCREASE IN THE SIZE OF THE URBAN COUNCIL.

"ON THE COMMITTEE STRUCTURE OF THE URBAN COUNCIL, THERE APPEARS TO BE GENERAL CONSENSUS THAT THERE SHOULD BE NO CHANGE," HE SAID.

"COUPLED WITH VIEWS EXPRESSED ABOUT THE REGIONAL COUNCIL AND THE URBAN COUNCIL, IT IS APPARENT THAT THERE IS NO DEMAND FOR THE AMALGAMATION OF THE TWO COUNCILS," HE ADDED.

ON THE COMPOSITION OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, DR CHAM SAID THERE WERE CLEAR INDICATIONS THAT THE SEATS OF THE FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES SHOULD BE INCREASED.

AND HE PERSONALLY FELT THAT AN ADDITIONAL SEAT FOR ACCOUNTANCY AND ONE FOR FINANCIAL MARKETS SHOULD BE INTRODUCED.

TURNING TO DIRECT ELECTIONS, DR CHAM SAID THE WAY TO MOVE AHEAD WAS TO LAY DOWN SPECIFIC PLANS FOR FUTURE INTRODUCTION, EVEN THOUGH CHANGE WAS NOT OPTED FOR IN 1988.

HE URGED THAT CONSIDERATIONS SHOULD BE GIVEN TO COMPULSORY VOTING SO THAT WE WOULD NOT BE CONSTRAINED BY PUBLIC APATHY BUT RATHER ENSURE TOTAL COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN OUR FUTURE ELECTION PROCESS.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

POLITICAL CHANGES SHOULD CONFORM WITH MAJORITY WISH

*****

THE OUTCOME OF THE GOVERNMENT'S ASSESSMENT OF THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT SHOULD CONFORM WITH THE MAJORITY WISHES OF THE PEOPLE, ACCORD WITH THE SPIRIT AS WELL AS THE LETTER OF OTHER OBLIGATIONS, AND SHOULD BE IN LINE WITH THE OVERALL INTERESTS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, THE HON CHENG HON-KWAN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

MR CHENG SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S TASK NOW WAS TO ASSESS ALL THE POINTS OF VIEW AND TO WORK OUT WHAT CHANGES — IF ANY — SHOULD BE MADE IN 1988.

"LIKE THE SURVEY ITSELF, IT IS A DIFFICULT TASK, AND IT WILL NEED ALL THE GOODWILL, CO-OPERATION AND WISDOM WHICH WE CAN MUSTER," HE SAID.

NOTING THAT THE MAJORITY OF RESPONDENTS TO THE SURVEY ON REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT WERE IN FAVOUR OF DIRECT ELELCTIONS, BUT FELT THAT 1988 WAS TOO SOON, MR CHENG EMPHASISED THAT THIS CONSIDERED OPINION, TOGETHER WITH OTHERS EXPRESSED IN THE SURVEY, MUST BE RESPECTED.

"IT IS NOT OUR BUSINESS TO QUESTION THE RESULTS OF THIS EXERCISE; NOR DO I SEE ANY REASON TO DISPUTE THE METHODS USED TO OBTAIN THE VIEWS OF THE PEOPLE.

"INDEED, I WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE THE SURVEY OFFICE ON THE WAY IN WHICH IT HAS COLLECTED AND COLLATED THE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF OPINIONS. IT COULD NOT HAVE BEEN AN EASY TASK," MR CHENG SAID.

HE ALSO EXPRESSED APPRECIATION OF THE ROLE PLAYED BY THE TWO INDEPENDENT MONITORS AND NOTED THAT THE OFFICER HAD COMMISSIONED SPECIALISTS TO CONDUCT TWO RANDOM PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS TO OBTAIN AN OBJECTIVE ASSESSMENT OF THE COMMUNITY'S VIEWS.

MR CHENG SAID THAT TO HIM, IT SEEMED CLEAR THAT THE PEOPLE WERE IN AGREEMENT WITH THE VIEW THAT THE DEVELOPMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE EVOLUTIONARY AND NOT REVOLUTIONARY.

"THE RESPONSE TO THE SURVEY DEMONSTRATES THE PEOPLE’S FAITH IN THE GOVERNMENT AND IN THE PROCESS OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION -- OTHERWISE THEY WOULD NOT HAVE BOTHERED TO TAKE PART TN THE SURVEY," HE OBSERVED.

ON THE PACE OF DEVELOPMENT IN REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT, MR CHENG HELD FAST TO THE VIEWS HE EXPRESSED IN THE GREEN PAPER DEBATE LAST JULY.

/MS MAINTAINED .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 198?

16 -

HE MAINTAINED THAT MORE TIME SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THE TESTING OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT STRUCTURES WHICH HAD BEEN SET UP THROUGH MAJOR INNOVATIONS AS RECENTLY AS 1985 AND THAT ANY MAJOR CHANGE IN 1988 WOULD RUN COUNTER TO THE SPIRIT OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION AND WOULD BE PRE-EMPTIVE OF THE CONTINUING PROCESS OF DRAFTING THE BASIC LAW.

"WE DO NOT DIMINISH OURSELVES BY HONOURING THE SPIRIT AS WV’LL AS THE LETTER OF OUR AGREEMENTS. INSTEAD WE DEMONSTRATE OUR INTEGRITY -- AND IT IS THIS INTEGRITY WHICH MAKES VIABLE OUR SYSTEM OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION," HE SAID.

MR CHENG POINTED OUT THAT IN HIS CONSTITUENCY OF ENGINEERING AND ALLIED PROFESSIONS, THE FOUR PROFESSIONAL BODIES SOUGHT THEIR MEMBERS’ VIEWS ON THE GREEN PAPER AND MADE SEPARATE SUBMISSIONS TO THE SURVEY OFFICE. THE GENERAL CONSENSUS WAS IN FAVOUR OF DIRECT ELECTIONS, BUT OPINION WAS VERY CLOSELY DIVIDED ON WHETHER THESE SHOULD BE IN 1988 OR LATER.

"IT WAS ALSO CONSIDERED THAT ANOTHER SEAT IN THIS COUNCIL WAS NEEDED TO REPRESENT THE CONSTITUENCY," HE SAID.

"THIS VIEW ASSUMED NEW PROPORTIONS WHEN I SAW IN THE SURVEY REPORT THAT NEARLY A DOZEN MORE PROFESSIONAL BODIES OR ORGANISATIONS RELATING TO THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WERE SEEKING EITHER INCLUSION IN AN EXISTING CONSTITUENCY -- PRESUMABLY MINE — OR RECOGNITION AS NEW FUNCTIONAL CONSTITUENCIES.

"IT SEEMS LOGICAL TO ME THAT THESE BODIES OR ORGANISATIONS SHOULD BE REPRESENTED IN THIS COUNCIL."

SHOULD THE ENGINEERING CONSTITUENCY BE ENLARGED, EXPANDED REPRESENTATION IN LEGCO WOULD BE NEEDED AS EXISTING CONSTITUENTS ALREADY FELT THAT REPRESENTATION SHOULD BE INCREASED, HE ADDED.

-----0------

POLITICAL INCLINATION CONSENSUS-ORIENTED

*****

THE MOST SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE WESTERN-STYLE DEMOCRATIC FORM OF GOVERNMENT AND THE EVOLVING POLITICAL SCENE IN HONG KONG WAS THAT HONG KONG’S INCLINATIONS AND APPROACHES WERE MORE CONSENSUS-ORIENTED RATHER THAN CONFRONTATION-ORIENTED, THE HON HILTON CHEONG-LEEN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

MR CHEONG-LEEN SAID HE BELIEVED THE FRAMEWORK OF THE FUTURE HONG KONG SAR GOVERNMENT, AS WOULD BE ENACTED IN THE BASIC LAW IN 1990, SHOULD BE UNDERPINNED BY THE DEMOCRATIC AND CONSENSUS-ORIENTED APPROACH AMONG THE VARIOUS POLITICAL PERSONALITIES AND POLITICAL PARTIES WHICH WOULD BE ACTIVELY PARTICIPATING IN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS.

/TURNING TO

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1?8?

- 17 -

TURNING TO THE QUESTION OF DIRECT ELECTIONS, HE NOTED THAT THERE WAS AN ARRAY OF STATISTICS LISTING TENS OF THOUSAND OF INDIVIDUALS, GROUPS AND ASSOCIATIONS OPTING FOR OR AGAINST DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988.

"THE STATISTICS GIVEN IN THE SURVEY REPORT ARE AS ACCURATE AS ONE CAN REASONABLY EXPECT IN THE CARRYING OUT OF SUCH A MAJOR EXERCISE," HE SAID.

HE NOTED THAT THREE OTHER SURVEYS COVERING THE POPULATION SHOWED THAT THE SUPPORT FOR, OR NO OBJECTION TO, DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988 WAS MUCH HIGHER THAN THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE — PROBABLY BECAUSE OF THE FEWER OPTIONS OFFERED AND ALSO BECAUSE REFERENCE TO DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988 WAS MORE SPECIFIC.

FOR THE FOUR SURVEYS CONDUCTED BY SURVEY RESEARCH HONG KONG LIMITED, THE PERCENTAGE IN SUPPORT OF DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988 RANGED FROM 46 PER CENT TO 54 PER CENT. FOR THE THREE SURVEYS CONDUCTED BY MARKETING DECISION RESEARCH COMPANY LIMITED, THE FIGURES RANGED FROM 41 PER CENT TO 62 PER CENT, AND THE SURVEY CONDUCTED BY FRANK SMALL AND ASSOCIATES SHOWED 43 PER CENT IN SUPPORT OF DIRECT ELECTIONS.

"MY READING OF THE MCNAIR SURVEYS AND THE SURVEYS CARRIED OUT BY THESE THREE OTHER COMPANIES IS THAT THE HONG KONG ADULT POPULATION IS QUITE CLEARLY DIVIDED AS TO WHETHER DIRECT ELECTIONS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SHOULD BE INTRODUCED IN 1988," HE SAID.

MR CHEONQ-LEEN ALSO NOTED THAT IN REGARD TO THE 21 SIGNATURE CAMPAIGNS COVERING THE QUESTION OF DIRECT ELECTIONS, A LARGE NUMBER, ABOUT 225,000 SIGNATURES, WERE IN SUPPORT OF DIRECT ELECTIONS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BEING HELD IN 1988.

AS FOR THE 125,833 SUBMISSIONS SENT DIRECT TO THE SURVEY OFFICE, OF WHICH 120,923 WERE FROM INDIVIDUALS AND 4,305 FROM GROUPS OF INDIVIDUALS COMPRISING 16,294 INDIVIDUALS, THE LARGER MAJORITY 94,270 — WERE NOT IN FAVOUR OF DIRECT ELECTIONS BEING INTRODUCED IN 1988.

"MY ASSESSMENT THEREFORE - AND I HAVE TO RECOGNISE IT SOMEWHAT RELUCTANTLY - IS THAT THERE IS NO OVERWHELMING MAJORITY AMONG THE POPULATION IN GENERAL FOR DIRECT ELECTIONS TO BE INTRODUCED IN 1988.

"THAT BEING THE CASE, WE CAN ONLY HOPE THAT DIRECT ELECTIONS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CAN COME ABOUT IF NOT IN 1988, THEN EITHER IN 1990 OR 1991," HE SAID.

-----0-----

/18........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

PAY MORE ATTENTION

t *

TO QUALITY OF VIEWS » « »

THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD PAY MORE ATTENTION TO THE QUALITY OF THE VIEWS SUBMITTED TO THE SURVEY OFFICE, RATHER THAN THE NUMBER OF RESPONDENTS, IN ITS ASSESSMENT OF THE SURVEY REPORT, TUB HON NGAI SHIU-KIT SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

CONCEDING THAT THE 130,000-ODD RESPONSES TO THE SURVEY OFFICE AND THE 220,000 SIGNATURES, MIGHT NOT SIGNIFY A GROWING POLITICAL AWARENESS AMONG RESIDENTS, OR CONSCIOUS EFFORTS THE MASS TO SUPPORT A WORTHY CAUSE, MR NGAI TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THAT IN IMPORTANT ISSUES LIKE CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS, THE FINAL DECISION MUST BE BASED LARGELY ON RATIONALISATION.

STRESSING THAT THE INTRODUCTION OF DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988 WAS A HASTY AND RISKY STEP TO TAKE, MR NGAI SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CAREFULLY ASCERTAIN THE CONTENT OF POPULAR WILL AND HOW EFFECTIVE THE MECHANISM FOR EXPRESSING THIS WILL WAS.

HE WARNED THAT WITH THE GENERAL LACK OF POLITICAL AWARENESS AND GENERAL INDIFFERENCE TO PO)ITICAL ISSUES AMONG THE MAJORITY OF PEOPLE, IT COULD BE DISASTROUS TO THE WELL-BEING OF THE WHOLE COMMUNITY FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO ACT ACCORDING TO ANY APPARENT UNITY.

"THERE HAS BEEN MUCH OVER-REACTION TO THE SURVEY REPORT EVER SINCE ITS PUBLICATION TWO WEEKS AGO. THOSE WHO HAVE PLEDGED THEIR FAITH TO WINNING MAJORITY SUPPORT FOR DIRECT ELECTION IN 1988 ARE UNDERSTANDABLY FRUSTRATED BY THE OUTCOME OF THE SURVEY.

"FOR THOSE WHO HAVE COMB FORWARD TO ACCUSE THE GOVERNMENT FOR BEING INSINCERE AND BIASED IN THIS CONSULTATION EXERCISE, I REGRET TO SAY THAT THEIR VINDICTIVE ACCUSATIONS COULD HAVE BEEN MISFIRED. FOR IT WILL BE TOTALLY UNTHINKABLE FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO BASE ITS DECISION AS TO INITIATE POLITICAL REFORMS OR NOT, PURELY ON THE OUTCOME OF A SURVEY AND NOTHING ELSE," HE SAID.

MR NGAI EMPHASISED THAT HONG KONG’S EXPORT-ORIENTED ECONOMY WAS VULNERABLE TO TOO MANY EXTERNAL FACTORS BEYOND OUE! CONTROL AND WE SIMPLY COULD NOT AFFORD TO EXPERIMENT WITH POLITICAL REFORMS AND GAMBLE ON THE FUTURE STABILITY AND PROSPERITY OF OUR COMMUNITY.

"ANOTHER REALITY IS THE QUESTION OF CONVERGENCE OF OUR POLITICAL SYSTEM WITH THE BASIC LAW WHICH SHALL BE WITH US IN THE RUN-UP TO 1997," HE SAID, ADDING THAT THE QUESTION HAD TO BE ADDRESSED IN THE FORTHCOMING WHITE PAPER ON OUR FUTURE POLITICAL

FINALLY, MR NGAI REMINDED THE COUNCIL THAT THE SUCCESS OF HONG KONG’S ECONOMY HAD BEEN BUILT UPON A STABLE AND PREDICTABLE POLITICAL STRUCTURE AND SAID HE BELIEVED THE EXISTING GOVERNMENT SYSTEM COULD ENSURE A PRAGMATIC AND EFFICIENT FUNCTIONING OF THE ADMINISTRATION.

-------o - - - - /19........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

- 19 -

SURVEY OFFICE DID AN EXCELLENT JOB

* * *

THE SURVEY OFFICE DID AN EXCELLENT JOB IN A VERY SHORT TIME FOR WHICH THE COMMISSIONER AND HIS STAFF SHOULD BE THANKED AND CONGRATULATED, DR THE HON HELMUT SOHMEN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

DR SOHMEN SAID THE SURVEY OUTCOME WAS HIGHLY PREDICTABLE: IN THE OPINION POLLS A MAJORITY ACCEPTED THE NEED FOR CHANGE BUT NOT IN 1988; A SMALLER NUMBER EXPRESSED A PREFERENCE FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988; AND THE LARGER PART OF THE POPULATION REMINED STUBBORNLY SILENT.

"THE SURVEY REPORT HAS ADHERED TO ITS TERMS OF REFERENCE; ITS FINDINGS AND HOW THEY WERE ARRIVED AT ARE THERE FOR ALL TO SEE AND DRAW CONCLUSIONS FROM," HE SAID.

DR SOHMEN NOTED THAT THE SURVEY OFFICE ONLY HAD TO PRESENT AND NOT TO DECIDE, AND THE ATTACK ON ITS WORK WAS MISPLACED AND A LAST-DITCH ATTEMPT TO INFLUENCE THE ULTIMATE POLITICAL DECISION BY SUGGESTING THAT THE AVAILABLE EVIDENCE SHOULD BE DISREGARDED.

HE SAID THE DEBATE ON THE SURVEY REPORT REMINDED HIM A BIT OF THE THEATRE OF THE ABSURD.

"THE DRAMATIS PERSONAE ARE 'EXERCISE IN FUTILITY', PITTED AGAINST 'EXERCISE IN FRIVOLITY’, PLAYED BY ACTORS WITHOUT A PROPER SCRIPT AND FEELING THEIR WAY FORWARD.

"THE REVIEWERS ARE BAFFLED BUT THEIR PROFESSIONAL PRIDE DEMANDS THAT THEY FIND MEANING; INTERPRETATIONS THUS DIFFER WIDELY AS TO WHAT IS GOING ON, BUT ON BALANCE THEY TEND TO FAVOUR FRIVOLITY.

"THE AUDIENCE AT LARGE BRIEFLY ENJOY THE THRILL OF BEING PART OF SOMETHING NEW AND INCOMPREHENSIBLE, BUT ULTIMATELY LEAVE WITH A SENSE OF UNEASE. THE MORAL OF THE STORY SOMEHOW REMAINS IN DOUBT."

HOWEVER, DR SOHMEN SAID THE GREEN PAPER DEBATE AND THE TRAVAILS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE HAD NOT BEEN TOTALLY USELESS.

"WHILE PROVIDING SOME MUCH-NEEDED CIVIC EDUCATION, THE RESULTS HAVE REVEALED THE TRUE IDENTITY OF OUR DEMOCRATIC REFORMERS.

"FIRST THEY ATTACKED THE GREEN PAPER QUITE RIGHTLY FOR BEING SOMEWHAT OBSCURE AND NOT CONTAINING ALL THE PROMISED OPTIONS.

"BUT PEOPLE WHO DO NOT SEE, OF CANNOT ACCEPT OBJECTIVE REALITY WHICH MAY NECESSITATE POLICY CHANGES OBVIOUSLY LACK COMMON SENSE. LET US, HOWEVER, ACCEPT THEM AS IDEALISTS," HE SAID.

/"BUT PEOPLE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987 - 20 -

"BUT PEOPLE WHO ARB SO WRAPPED UP IN THEIR OWN IDEALS THAT THEY BECOME UNAWARE OF, OR INSENSITIVE TO, THE REAL STRENGTH OF SENTIMENT IN THE COMMUNITY AS TO AVAILABLE ALTERNATIVES, WHILE AT THE SAME TIME PROCLAIMING THAT THEY, AND ONLY THEY, REPRESENT THAT COMMUNITY, ARB VERY POOR POLITICIANS.

"AND IF THESE SAME PEOPLE HAVE TO PUT UP A SMOKE-SCREEN OF FRIVOLOUS COMPLAINTS TO HIDE EMBARRASSMENT AND FRUSTRATION OVER THEIR FAILURE TO PRODUCE MORE CONVINCING ARGUMENTS OR TO MAKE ACCURATE PREDICTIONS, THEN THEY ARB IMMATURE, HYPOCRITICAL, IRRESPONSIBLE POLITICIANS.

"LET US BE CONSCIOUS OF THE FACT THAT BAD LOSERS NEVER MAKE GOOD DEMOCRATS," DR SOHMEN ADDED.

"THIS COUNCIL AND OTHERS WILL REMEMBER THAT THOSE OF US WHO ARGUED AGAINST HASTY CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS IN THE JULY DEBATE MADE A COMMITMENT IN ADVANCE TO RESPECT THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE.

"SOME OF THOSE IN FAVOUR OF THE EARLY INTRODUCTION OF DIRECT ELECTIONS, HOWEVER, WARNED HONG KONG OF THEIR LIKELY DEPARTURE IF THEY COULD NOT HAVE THEIR BRAND OF ’DEMOCRACY’.

"WHAT SORT OF DEMOCRACY CAN WB EXPECT IN HONG KONG FROM PEOPLE MAKING SUCH PUERILE THREATS? WHAT DEGREE OF COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG AND ITS FUTURE SHOULD BE READ INTO SUCH EGOCENTRIC BEHAVIOUR AND ATTEMPTS AT PSYCHOLOGICAL BLACKMAIL? AND WHAT SHOULD WE READ INTO THE ATTACKS ON THE MECHANICS OF THE SURVEY EFFORT OR THE METHODOLOGY OF THE OPINION POLLSTERS?" HE SAID.

DR SOHMEN ASKED WHAT CRIES OF OUTRAGE WOULD WB HAVE HEARD IF THE SURVEY OFFICE HAD INDEED GIVEN MORE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS TO AGB MCNAIR HONG KONG LTD, OR IF AGB MCNAIR HAD SUBSTANTIALLY DEVIATED IN THEIR QUESTIONS FROM THE TERMINOLOGY IN THE GREEN PAPER.

"CONVERSELY, CAN WE ASSUME THAT THE CRITICISMS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE WOULD HAVE BEEN AS STRONG IF BY CHANCE THE OPINION POLLS HAD REFLECTED THE RESULT DESIRED BY THE PRO-BLBCTION LOBBY?

"HOW MANY DISGRUNTLED CITIZENS WOULD LIKELY HAVE TAKEN TO THE STREETS IN THAT EVENT PROTESTING AGAINST THE ’UNFAVOURABLE’ FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE?

"WHY SHOULD IT BE SEEN AS ’UNFAIR’ TO THE ACTIVISTS NOT TO GET THE FULL SUPPORT OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG?"

DR SOHMEN WONDERED WHETHER THE REFORMERS, IN DENOUNCING THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT, WHICH HAD BEEN MOST SCRUPULOUS IN KEEPING AWAY FROM THE ASSESSMENT EXERCISE, WERE IN FACT CHIDING THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG FOR HAVING MADE THE WRONG DECISION.

/HOWEVER, HE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

- 21

HOWEVER, HE SAID WE HAD TO ACCEPT THAT SOME PEOPLE WOULD NEVER BE SATISFIED UNTIL THEY GOT EXACTLY WHAT THEY WANTED, AND WOULD EVEN USE THE CLOCK OF DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLES TO COVER UP THEIR ESSENTIALLY UNDEMOCRATIC BEHAVIOURS.

"HONG KONG CANNOT AFFORD POLITICAL LEADERS WITHOUT VISION OR WITHOUT A SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE CONCERNS OF THE WHOLE COMMUNITY AND NOT JUST THOSE OF THEIR OWN LITTLE GROUP. WE CAN DO WITHOUT FRIVOLITY.

"WHAT WE NEED ARE PEOPLE WITH COMMITMENT THAT IS TEMPERED BY A SENSE OF PERSPECTIVE, A KNOWLEDGE OF THEIR OWN LIMITATIONS, AND AN APPRECIATION OF ACHIEVABLE REALITY."

FORTUNATELY, DR SOHMEN ADDED, SUCH PEOPLE EXISTED IN HONG KONG AT ALL LEVELS AND WERE QUIETLY AT WORK IN HELPING TO SHAPE OUR PRESENT AND OUR FUTURE.

"I AM ENCOURAGED BY THEIR DEDICATION AND CONVINCED THAT ULTIMATELY THEY, AND NOT THOSE NOW SHOUTING SO LOUDLY BUT SO UNCONVINCINGLY, WILL CARRY THIS TERRITORY THROUGH THE TRANSITION PERIOD AND BEYOND."

-------0----------

SILENT MAJORITY SATISFIED WITH STATUS QUO

» » » »

HONG KONG PEOPLE’S SILENCE TOWARDS THE GREEN PAPER COULD BE TAKEN AS A STRONG INDICATION THAT THEY WERE SATISFIED WITH THE STATUS QUO AND DID NOT WANT TO RISK ANY HASTY AND UNNECESSARY CHANGE, THE HON EDWARD HO SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

HE FOUND IT A PITY THAT DESIGNERS OF PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS DID NOT PURSUE WHY PEOPLE DID NOT HAVE ANY OPINION IN REGARD TO THE GREEN PAPER.

HE FELT THAT "NO OPINION" IN ITSELF COULD BE TREATED AS A FORM OF OPINION, AND IT SHOULD BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT IN THE EVALUATION OF THE SURVEY REPORT.

THE LACK OF INFORMATION ON WHY SUCH A LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE HAD NO COMMENT LEFT THE TASK OF INTERPRETING WHAT THEY MEANT, MR HO SAID.

"ARE THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG SO INDIFFERENT TO POLITICS?

"ARE THEY SO SATISFIED WITH THE PRESENT SYSTEM THAT THEY DO NOT FEEL THE NEED TO VOICE THEIR VIEWS?

/"OR ALTHOUGH

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 198?

- 22

"OR ALTHOUGH THEY ARE NOT SATISFIED WITH THE STATUS QUO, ARE THEIR FEELINGS NOT STRONG ENOUGH TO COMPEL THEM TO ASK FOR CHANGE?" MR HO ASKED.

HE, HIMSELF, BELIEVED ALL THREE OF THESE ASSUMPTIONS WERE VALID AS DEVELOPMENTS IN RECENT YEARS HAD SHOWN THAT HONG KONG PEOPLE WOULD NOT LONGER HESITATE TO STAND UP AND MAKE THEIR VOICES HEARD IF THEY HAD A GRIEVANCE.

"THEIR SILENCE TOWARDS THE GREEN PAPER CAN BE TAKEN AS A STRONG INDICATION THAT THEY ARE SATISIFIED WITH THE STATUS QUO AND DO NOT WANT TO RISK ANY HASTY AND UNNECESSARY CHANGE," MR HO SAID.

"THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG ARE PRAGMATIC AND PRUDENT.

"THEY VALUE THE PRESENT STABILITY AND PROSPERITY AND WILL NOT CALL FOR CHANGES JUST FOR THE SAKE OF CHANGING," HE CONTINUED.

HE CALLED ON THE GOVERNMENT TO TAKE THE SAME APPROACH IN ASSESSING THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE.

EARLIER, MR HO SAID THE CONSULTATION EXERCISE COULD BE DESCRIBED AS A SUCCESS IN TERMS OF QUANTITY AS MORE THAN 130,000 SUBMISSIONS HAD BEEN RECEIVED BY THE SURVEY OFFICE.

HOWEVER, IT WAS DISAPPOINTING THAT PUBLIC RESPONSES TOWARDS OTHER ISSUES WERE RELATIVELY SCARCE COMPARED TO THOSE ON DIRECT ELECTIONS.

THE 1987 POLITICAL REVIEW, IN THIS RESPECT, COULD ONLY BE DESCRIBED AS A PARTIAL SUCCESS, MR HO SAID.

NEVERTHELESS, HE STILL BELIEVED THAT THE SURVEY EXERCISE HAD PROVIDED A VALUABLE INDICATION AS TO THE NEXT STEP TO BE TAKEN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF GOVERNMENT.

HE SAID IF THE SCOPE WAS WIDENED TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION ALL THE PROFESSIONALLY CONDUCTED OPINION SURVEYS TOGETHER WITH THE SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED, ANALYSTS COULD STILL FIND A CLEAR TREND IN THE PUBLIC’S MIND - WHICH WAS THAT THERE WAS NO OVERWHELMING DEMAND FOR HASTY CHANGES.

"THIS APPLIES TO MOST ASPECTS OF THE GOVERNMENT SYSTEM," HE ADDED.

ON THE QUESTION OF DIRECT ELECTIONS, EVEN IF THE AGB MCNAIR SURVEY WAS DISREGARDED, NINE SURVEYS UNDERTAKEN BY THE PRIVATE SECTOR INDICATED THAT ALTHOUGH THERE WAS A STRONG SUPPORT FOR AN ELEMENT OF DIRECT ELECTION TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THERE WAS NOT AN OVERWHELMING DESIRE TO INTRODUCE IT IN 1988, HE ADDED.

-------o--------- /25........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

- 23 -

LEGAL SYSTEM CONTRIBUTED TO HK’S SUCCESS

*****

HONG KONG OWES PART OF ITS SUCCESS TO ITS LEGAL SYSTEM, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR MICHAEL THOMAS, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY US TIME) IN NEW YORK. i

SPEAKING ON THE FIRST DAY OF AN EIGHT-DAY OFFICIAL VISIT THAT WILL TAKE HIM TO NEW YORK, BOSTON, LONDON AND PARIS, MR THOMAS SAID: "HONG KONG LIKE SO MANY OUTPOSTS OF BRITISH TRADE & COMMERCE, INHERITED THE COMMON LAW IN ITS GOLDEN AGE."

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL WAS ADDRESSING AN AUDIENCE OF MEMBERS OF THE BAR MAINLY INVOLVED WITH MATTERS RELATING TO CONSULAR AND DIPLOMATIC LAW AT A DINNER MEETING OF THE CONSULAR LAW SOCIETY.

"WE HAVE A LEGAL SYSTEM LARGELY REFLECTING THE BEST FEATURES OF THE ENGLISH LEGAL SYSTEM, WITH INCORRUPTIBLE JUDGES AND SKILLFUL PRACTITIONERS, INTERNATIONALIST IN OUTLOOK AND TRAINING," HE SAID.

IT WAS THE FACT THAT THE RULE OF LAW WAS WELL ESTABLISHED, THAT THE JUDGES HAD INDEPENDENCE, THAT THE COURTS WERE SECOND TO NONE IN THIS REGION THAT HAD ATTRACTED MANY TO HONG KONG.

"THEY KNOW THAT THEIR CONTRACTS WILL BE ENFORCED, THAT REMEDIES WILL BE AFFORDED WHERE WRONGS HAVE BEEN DONE. THEY KNOW TOO THAT CRIME IS VIGOROUSLY PROSECUTED AND THAT ON THE WHOLE JUSTICE IS DONE IN THE COURTS," HE SAID.

TO PROVIDE LEGAL SERVICES, MR THOMAS SAID THAT HONG KONG HAD 1,500 SOLICITORS AND OVER 300 BARRISTERS, MOST OF WHOM HAD GRADUATED LOCALLY, ALTHOUGH MANY HAD BEEN TRAINED IN THE INNS OF COURT IN LONDON AND UNIVERSITIES OVERSEAS.

"MORE THAN 100 QUEENS COUNSEL TRAVEL EACH YEAR FROM THE U.K. TO APPEAR IN SOME OF HONG KONG’S MAJOR CASES.

"WE HAVE JUDGES FROM MANY DIFFERENT COMMON LAW COUNTRIES, AS WELL AS SOME FROM HONG KONG. THE COURTS ARE READY TO CONSIDER NOT ONLY HONG KONG CASES BUT JUDICIAL PRECEDENTS FROM MANY OTHER PLACES.

’’FOREIGN LAWYERS ARE PERMITTED TO COME IN AND TO ESTABLISH PRACTICES IN ORDER TO SERVE FOREIGN BANKS AND TRADING GROUPS IN THEIR REGIONAL ACTIVITIES. THERE ARE MANY SUCH FIRMS IN HONG KONG, FROM AMERICA, CANADA, GERMANY, THE PHILIPPINES, HOLLAND ETC," HE SAID.

TURNING TO THE FUTURE, MR THOMAS SAID THE JOINT DECLARATION PROVIDED THAT HONG KONG’S SYSTEM OF LAW, ADMINISTRATION AND THE ECONOMY, ITS LIFE-STYLE AND FREEDOMS WOULD REMAIN UNCHANGED FOR 50 YEARS AFTER 1997.

/IT ALSO

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER l8t 1987

- 24 -

IT ALSO PROVIDED THAT IN 1997 HONG KONG WOULD BECOME A SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA, BUT THE SOCIALIST POLICY ADOPTED IN THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC WOULD NOT BE APPLIED, HE SAID.

’’THE PRESENT SYSTEMS IN HONG KONG WILL, IN ALL ESSENTIAL RESPECTS, REMAIN FOR 50 YEARS AFTER 1997. IN PARTICULAR, HONG KONG WILL MAINTAIN ITS OWN FAMILIAR SYSTEM OF LAW,” MR THOMAS SAID.

"THE LAWS CURRENTLY IN FORCE IN HONG KONG WILL REMAIN BASICALLY UNCHANGED. THE COMMON LAW, RULES OF EQUITY, ORDINANCES, SUBORDINATE LEGISLATION AND CUSTOMARY LAW WILL BE MAINTAINED.

’’THE JUDICIAL SYSTEM WILL REMAIN ESSENTIALLY UNCHANGED, AND IN PARTICULAR THE INDEPENDENT EXERCISE OF JUDICIAL POWER AND THE OBLIGATION OF THE COURTS TO DECIDE CASES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAW.

’’THE POWER OF FINAL JUDGEMENT OF THE HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION WILL BE VESTED IN ITS OWN COURT OF FINAL APPEAL,” MR THOMAS SAID.

EARLIER IN THE DAY, MR THOMAS ATTENDED A LUNCH HOSTED BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC AFFAIRS OFFICE IN NEW YORK, MR KERRY MCGLYNN. AT THE LUNCH HE MET REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE LEGAL PROFESSION AND MEMBERS OF MAJOR FINANCIAL AND BANKING INSTITUTIONS WHO HAVE SPECIAL INTEREST IN HONG KONG.

- 0 -

QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY RESULTS RELEASED * ♦ ♦ * *

THE MAJORITY OF FIRMS IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR REPORTED AN

IMPROVEMENT IN THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE THIRD QUARTER

1987 AS COMPARED WITH THE SECOND QUARTER OF SURVEY RESULTS RELEASED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) STATISTICS DEPARTMENT. IT IS EXPECTED THAT,

SECTOR AS A WHOLE, THE BUSINESS SITUATION TN 1987 WILL CONI’INUE TO SHOW IMPROVEMENT,

1987 , BY FOR THE

THOUGH

ACCORDING TO

THE THE FOURTH

THE

CENSUS

OF THE AND

MANUFACTURING

QUARTER PROSPECTS

OF OF

INDIVIDUAL INDUSTRIES VARY.

THE SURVEY WAS CONDUCTED DURING THE FIRST THREE WEEKS OF OCTOBER. THE GREAT MAJORITY OF THE RETURNS WERE RECEIVED BEFORE THE RECENT EVENTS IN THE INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL MARKETS TOOK PLACE. SUCH EVENTS MAY, HOWEVER, HAVE EFFECTS ON BUSINESS EXPEC. IAI 1ONS FOR 1HI*. FOURTH QUARTER AS A WHOLE. THE SURVEY RESULTS SHOULD THEREFORE BE INTERPRETED WITH THIS CAVEAT IN MINI).

/FIRMS IN

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

FIRMS IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR REPORTED A CONTINUED UPTREND IN BUSINESS DURING THE THIRD QUARTER AND THE BUSINESS SITUATION IS EXPECTED TO IMPROVE FURTHER IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.

AS FOR THE FIRMS IN THE "WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS" SECTOR, A FAVOURABLE BUSINESS SITUATION WAS EXPERIENCED IN THE THIRD QUARTER AND AN OPTIMISTIC BUSINESS OUTLOOK IS ANTICIPATED FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER.

IN THE THIRD QUARTER, FIRMS IN "BANKS", "REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED SERVICES" AND "TRANSPORT, STORAGE AND COMMUNICATION”. BUSINESSES CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE IMPROVEMENTS IN BUSINESS AND THEY EXPECT THE UPTREND TO PERSIST IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.

ABOUT 1,000 FIRMS FROM VARIOUS INDUSTRIES AND BUSINESSES, FORMING A CROSS-SECTION OF THE ECONOMIC COMMUNITY, PARTICIPATED IN THE SURVEY AND WERE ASKED ABOUT THEIR BUSINESS EXPERIENCES AND EXPECTATIONS.

WITHIN 1 THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR, FIRMS IN ALL INDUSTRIES EXPERIENCED AN IMPROVEMENT IN THE BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE THIRD QUARTER WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE TEXTILES INDUSTRY WHICH SHOWED LITTLE CHANGE. THE EXTENT OF IMPROVEMENTS ARE QUITE REMARKABLE IN THE "FOOD, BEVERAGE AND TOBACCO", "PLASTICS", "FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS", "ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPLIANCES AND SUPPLIES" AND "ELECTRONICS" INDUSTRIES.

REGARDING THE EXPECTATIONS ON THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER, FIRMS IN ALL INDUSTRIES, WITH THE EXCEPTION ON THE "PLASTICS" INDUSTRY, EXPRESS OPTIMISM OVER THE BUSINESS PROSPECT. FOR THE "PLASTICS" INDUSTRY, A SEASONAL DECLINE IN BUSINESS IS EXPECTED IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.

THE MAJORITY OF THE FIRMS IN THE "WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES" AND "RESTAURANTS" BUSINESSES EXPERIENCED AN IMPROVEMENT IN THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE THIRD QUARTER. FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS ARE EXPECTED BY THE RESPONDING FIRMS IN THE FOURTH QUARTER. AS FOR THE "HOTELS" BUSINESS, A STABLE BUSINESS SITUATION WAS EXPERIENCED BY FIRMS IN THE THIRD QUARTER AND THEY GENERALLY EXPRESS CONFIDENCE IN THE BUSINESS OUTLOOK FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER, DUE MAINLY TO ANTICIPATION OF A SEASONAL UPTREND IN BUSINESS.

WITH REGARD TO THE "OTHER SERVICES" SECTORS, FIRMS IN THE "TRANSPORT, STORAGE AND COMMUNICATION", "BANKS" AND THE "REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED SERVICES" ALSO EXPERIENCED AN UPTREND IN BUSINESS AND THERE WAS OPTIMISM ABOUT BUSINESS PROSPECT FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER.

THE SURVEY ALSO COVERED BUSINESS PROBLEMS FACED BY FIRMS.

/FOR THE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

26 -

' FOR THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR, SHORTAGE OF LABOUR GENERALLY BECOMES THE MOST PROMINENT PROBLEM IN THE THIRD QUARTER AND THIS IS EXPECTED TO REMAIN SO IN THE FOURTH QUARTER. BESIDES SHORTAGE OF SKILLED LABOUR, HIGH MATERIAL PRICES AND HIGH LABOUR TURNOVER WERE ALSO REGARDED BY FIRMS AS RELATIVELY MORE SIGNIFICANT PROBLEMS IN BOTH THE THIRD AND FOURTH QUARTERS.

APART From FACING THE PROBLEM OF PRICE COMPETITION, FROM BOTH LOCAL AND FOREIGN FIRMS IN HONG KONG, CONSTRUCTION •FRIMS WERE COMMONLY AFFECTED BY THE PROBLEMS OF SHORTAGE OF LABOUR GENERALLY, SHORTAGE OF SKILLED LABOUR, HIGH WAGES RATES AND HIGH LABOUR TURNOVER TO A GREATER EXTENT THAN IN PREVIOUS QUARTERS. THESE PROBLEMS ARE EXPECTED ’TO REMAIN PROMINENT IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.

AS FOR THE "WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS" SECTOR AND "OTHER SERVICES" SECTOR, THE PROBLEMS OF PRICE COMPETITION, SHORTAGE OF STAFF GENERALLY AND HIGH STAFF TURNOVER CONTINUED TO AFFECT THE RESPONDING FIRMS. IN PARTICULAR, SHORTAGE OF EXPERIENCED STAFF liAS fiECOME A PROMINENT PROBLEM AMONG FIRMS IN THE "HOTELS", "BANKS" AND "REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED SERVICES" BUSINESSES.

ACCORDING TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, • THE SURVEY RESULTS, OBTAINED WITH A MINIMUM TIME LAG, ARB INTENDED TO PROVIDE ONE SOURCE OF REFERENCE FOR MAKING A QUICK ASSESSMENT OF THE CURRENT ECONOMIC SITUATION OF HONG KONG.

IN THE SURVEY, PARTICIPATING FIRMS WERE ASKED TO INDICATE WHETHER, IN THEIR OPINION, THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND LEVEL OF CAPACITY UTILISATION HAD "IMPROVED", "REMAINED THE SAME" OR "DETERIORATED" IN THE QUARTER JUST ENDED AS COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING QUARTER.

FOR THE FORTHCOMING QUARTER, THEY WERE ALSO ASKED TO INDICATE WHETHER THE SITUATION WOULD "IMPROVE", "REMAIN THE SAME" OR "DETERIORATE". THE OPINIONS OF RESPONDENTS WERE TABULATED AND ANALYSED. THE SURVEY REPORT CONTAINS A SECTION ON THE BUSINESS PROBLEMS EXPERIENCED AND EXPECTED BY FIRMS IN DIFFERENT ECONOMIC SECTORS AND A BREAKDOWN OF THE VIEWS OF FIRMS BY SIZE GROUPS.

THE DEPARTMENT CAUTIONED THAT, IN A SURVEY OF THIS NATURE, THE RESULTS SHOULD BE INTERPRETED WITH CARR AS IT IS DIFFICULT TO ESTABLISH PRECISELY THE EXTENT TO WHICH RESPONDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF THE PAST AND THE FUTURE ACCORDS WITH THE UNDERLYING TRENDS.

COPIES OF THE REPORT, CONTAINING AN ANALYSIS OF THE SURVEY FINDINGS AND STATISTICAL TABLES, HAVE BEEN DISTRIBUTED TO FIRMS TAKING PART IN THE SURVEY AND TO OTHER BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY OBTAIN COPIES FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, AT »3.50 PER COPY.

FURTHER DETAILS OF THE QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE NATIONAL INCOME BRANCH OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON 5-8234779.

-------0 -------- /27

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

- 27 -

PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE TO HOLD OPEN HEARINGS

*****

OPEN HEARINGS OF THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE WILL BE DURING THE NEXT TWO WEEKS FOLLOWING THE TABLING OF THE REPORT OF DIRECTOR OF AUDIT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

HELD THE

THESE HEARINGS WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE LEGISLATIVE CHAMBER ON NOVEMBER 26 AND NOVEMBER 30, STARTING AT 9 AM.

COUNCIL

IF NECESSARY,

A THIRD PUBLIC HEARING MAY ALSO BE HELD.

CONTROLLING OFFICERS WILL APPEAR RELATION TO POINTS MADE IN THE REPORT.

BEFORE THE

COMMITTEE IN

-----o-----

ONE-WAY TOLL ALSO APPLIES TO TAXIS

« * » * *

TAXI PASSENGERS TRAVELLING TO THE NEW TERRITORIES VIA THE LION ROCK TUNNEL WILL HAVE TO PAY A 16 TOLL CHARGE WHEN THE ONE-WAY TOLL ARRANGEMENT IS IMPLEMENTED FROM 3 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 23).

HOWEVER, TAXI PASSENGERS HEADING FOR KOWLOON USING THE LION ROCK TUNNEL WOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY ANY TOLL, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

NOTICES ADVISING TAXI DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS OF THE NEW TOLL ARRANGEMENT WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION BY TAXI DRIVERS AT THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT’S FOUR LICENSING OFFICES IN MURRAY ROAD, DUNDAS STREET, LEI YUE MUN ROAD AND SHA TIN; AND DISTRICT OFFICES FROM 2 PM TOMORROW.

THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE NOTICES SERVED TO CLARIFY THE TOLL CHARGE ARRANGEMENT FOR BOTH TAXI DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS.

HE ADDED THAT THIS TOLL ARRANGEMENT WOULD BE IN FORCE FOR THE FOUR-WEEK DURATION OF THE ONE-WAY TOLL EXPERIMENT WHICH WOULD END ON DECEMBER 21.

BUT SHOULD THE EXPERIMENT BE CURTAILED AT ANY TIME, THE PREVIOUS TOLL CHARGE OF 13 WOULD BE REINSTATED, HE SAID.

-----0------

/28........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

28 -

MORE CARE-Abfo-ATTENTION PLACES BEING PLANNED

*****

THE NUMBER OF CARE-AND-ATTENTION PLACES WILL BE INCREASED BY MORE THAN 3,800 WITHIN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS TO REACH A TOTAL OF 5,300, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

"TO CO-INCIDE WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF THIS SERVICE TO MEET PUBLIC DEMAND, THE GOVERNMENT IS REVIEWING THE PLANNING RATIO OF THIS TYPE OF SERVICE WHICH NOW STANDS AT FIVE PLACES PER 1,000 TLDERLY PEOPLE," SHE SAID.

MRS WONG WAS OFFICIATING AT THE FOUNDATION STONE LAYING CEREMONY OF THE CHUK LAM MING TONG HOME FOR THE AGED IN SANDY BAY, POK FU LAM.

SHE SAID SHE BELIEVED THAT IT WAS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE HONG KONG COMMUNITY TO CARE FOR ITS ELDERLY MEMBERS AND THAT IN THE PROVISION OF WELFARE SERVICES, THE CO-OPERATION AND SUPPORT OF VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WERE NEEDED.

SHE COMMENDED CHUK LAM MING TONG FOR ACTIVELY PURSUING THIS HOME FOR THE AGED PROJECT, WHICH WHEN COMPLETED IN TWO YEARS’ TIME, WOULD PROVIDE 120 CARE-AND-ATTENTION PLACES AND 60 ORDINARY HOME PLACES.

THE PROJECT IS ALSO SUBSIDISED BY THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERY FUND AND THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB.

-------o --------

COUNCIL TO LOOK AFTER SMALL INVESTORS PROPOSED

* * * *

THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE FEASIBILITY OF SETTING UP AN INVESTOR COUNCIL TO LOOK AFTER THE INTEREST OF SMALL INVESTORS AT A MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).

THE DISCUSSION WAS PROPOSED BY A MEMBER, MR LAU CHI-SUM, TO SEEK OTHER MEMBERS’ VIEWS ON URGING THE GOVERNMENT TO SET UP SUCH A BODY FOLLOWING THE RECENT SLUMP IN THE STOCK AND FUTURES MARKETS.

AT THE MEETING, MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS PROBLEMS CONCERNING STREET SLEEPERS IN THE DISTRICT AND THE PROPOSAL TO CANCEL THE REQUIREMENT FOR OLD AGE ALLOWANCE APPLICANTS TO DECLARE THEIR ASSETS AND INCOME.

/OTHER ITIMS

WEDNESDAY , N0V1XBER 18> 19®7

- 29 -

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE A PROPOSAL TO PROVIDE A REGISTERED MAIL COLLECTION COUNTER AT 01 MAN ESTATE POST OFFICE AND IMPROVEMENTS TO KCRC FACILITIES AND SERVICES.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD MEETING WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.15 PM TOWORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE, 141 KAU PUI LUNG ROAD, TO KWA WAN.

------0--------

URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTIONS ON HONG KONG ISLAND » ♦ ♦ ♦ *

FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 21), CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL WESTBOUND BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH GILMAN STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 100 METRES EAST OF THAT JUNCTION WILL BE DESIGNATED A 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY.

THE RESTRICTION WILL BE IN FORCE FOR ABOUT SEVEN MONTHS TO FACILITATE PAVEMENT RECONSTRUCTION WORK.

AT THE SAME TIME, THE FOLLOWING 24-HOUR DAILY URBAN CLEARWAYS WILL BE RE-DESIGNATED 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY RESTRICTED ZONES:

» THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF ON TAI STREET BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH MORRISON STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 15 METRES WEST OF THAT JUNCTION.

* THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF ON TAI STREET BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH MORRISON STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 20 METRES WEST OF THAT JUNCTION.

♦ THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL WESTBOUND BETWEEN ITS JUNCTIONS WITH MORRISON STREET AND CLEVERLY STREET.

t THE NOTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL EASTBOUND BETWEEN ITS JUNCTIONS WITH MORRISON STREET AND CLEVERLY STREET.

» THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL WESTBOUND BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH CLEVERLY STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 20 METRES EAST OF THAT JUNCTION.

» THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF DES VOEUXD ROAD CENTRAL EASTBOUND BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH CLEVERLY STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 20 METRES EAST OF THAT JUNCTION.

WITHIN THE RESTRICTED ZONES, NO VEHICLE WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR GOODS OR PASSENGERS.

------o------- /30......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987

STORAGE SITES TO LET BY TENDER » ♦ ♦ »

TWO STORAGE SITES, ONE IN KOWLOON AND THE OTHER IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, ARE TO BE LET ON SHORT-TERM TENANCY BY THE BUILDINGS AND LAb/DS DEPARTMENT.

THE SITE AT THE JUNCTION OF WANG HOI ROAD, LAM HING STREET AND LAM LEE STREET IN KOWLOON MEASURES ABOUT 2,520 SQUARE METRES. IT IS FOR STORAGE OF NON-DANGEROUS GOODS.

THE TENANCY IS INITIALLY FOR ONE YEAR, RENEWABLE MONTHLY AFTERWARDS.

THE NEW TERRITORIES SITE IS LOCATED IN TUEN MUN AREA 44.

COVERING AN AREA OF ABOUT 1,900 SQUARE METRES, IT IS FOR OPEN STORAGE PURPOSES.

THE TENANCY IS FOR ONE YEAR AND RENEWABLE QUARTERLY THEREAFTER.

TENDERS FOR BOTH SITES MUST BE SUBMITTED BY NOON ON DECEMBER 4.

-----0------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1987

CONTBITS PAGE NO.

SECOND QUARTER INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION INDEX PUBLISHED.......... 1

LEGAL CHANGES REQUIRED TO ENSURE SMOOTH TRANSITION............ 4

GOVERNOR TO VISIT CAS CAMP ................................... 5

LEGISLATIVE AMENDMENTS FOR HARMONIZED SYSTEM.................. 6

SEMINAR ON HARMONIZED SYSTEM.................................. 7

FEES FOR HANDLING EXPLOSIVES REVISED.......................... 8

SPEEDPOST SERVICE IURTHER EXTENDED ........................... 9

FAMILY SERVICES TO BE STRENGTHENED ........................... 9

1981 PRIVATE CARS FALL UNDER INSPECTION SCHEME................ 10

MORE SHELTERED WORKSHOPS TO BE PROVIDED ...................... 11

TAG TO VIEW LION ROCK TUNNEL NO-TOLL EXPERIMENT .............. 12

WEEKEND SEMINAR FOR SAFETY OFFICERS .......................... 12

COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS HAWKER RE-ORDERING EXERCISE.............. 13

VIDEO WALL SHOWS "NOW aND THEN" OF EASTERN DISTRICT........... 14

DB TO DISCUSS DESIGNATION OF TSIU HANG SPECIAL AREA........... 15

SEMINAR FOR SAI KUNG ENGLISH-SPEAKING RESIDENTS .............. 15

SCHOOL PARADE TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION ..................... 16

DANCE FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY ............................... 1$

EXHIBITION TO SUPPORT "WE CARE" ACTIVITIES.................... 17

COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB TO HOLD ANNUAL PARADE.................... 18

MUSIC OFFICE PRESENTS CELEBRATION CONCERTS ................... 18

SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARR.JJGEMENTS FOR RELIGIOUS CELEBRATION....... 19

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES IN CENTRAL, WAN CHAT ................. 19

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1987

SECOND QUARTER INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION INDEX PUBLISHED » » » » »

THE INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION FOR THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987, AT 171, WAS 27 POINTS OR 18.8 PER CENT ABOVE THAT FOR THE SAME QUARTER OF 1986, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.

COMPARED WITH THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1987, THE INDEX SHOWED AN INCREASE OF 26 POINTS OR 17.9 PER CENT. THIS INCREASE WAS PARTLY DUE TO THE LARGER NUMBER OF WORKING DAYS IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR IN THE SECOND QUARTER AS COMPARED WITH THAT IN THE FIRST QUARTER, WHEN MOST OF THE MANUFACTURING WORKERS HAD THEIR LUNAR NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS.

ACCORDING TO THE MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED, THE UPSURGE IN THE LEVEL OF PRODUCTION DURING THE SECOND QUARTER WAS LARGELY DUE TO A CONTINUED STRONG DEMAND FOR HONG KONG PRODUCTS IN MOST OVERSEAS MARKETS AND, IN PARTICULAR, EUROPE AND THE UNITED STATES.

INDUSTRIES WITH THE MOST SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES IN PRODUCTION OVER THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1986 WERE : PAPER AND PAPER PRODUCTS (+48.7 PER CENT); LEATHER PRODUCTS AND FOOTWEAR (EXCEPT RUBBER, PLASTIC AND WOODEN FOOTWEAR) (+43.2 PER CENT); RUBBER PRODUCTS (+37.2 PER CENT); CONSUMER ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS (+36.8 PER CENT); AND TOBACCO (+35.4 PER CENT).

THE TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT INDUSTRY SHOWED A DECLINE IN PRODUCTION COMPARED WITH THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1986 (-13 PER CENT). THIS WAS HOWEVER DUE TO A PARTICULARLY GOOD PRODUCTION PERFORMANCE IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1986.

COMPARED WITH THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1987, INDUSTRIES WITH INCREASES IN PRODUCTION INCLUDED: FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS, EXCEPT MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT (+37.2 PER CENT); BEVERAGES (j31.9 PER CENT); PAPER AND PAPER PRODUCTS (+31.2 PER CENT); BASIC METALS (+27.8 PER CENT); AND PLASTIC PRODUCTS (+25.1 PER CENT). ON THE OTHER HAND, THE TOBACCO INDUSTRY SHOWED A DECLINE IN PRODUCTION COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING QUARTER (-21 PER CENT).

IN RELEASING THESE FIGURES, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT EXPLAINED THAT THE INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION IS PRIMARILY INTENDED TO REFLECT THE LEVELS AND TRENDS OF OUTPUT IN REAL TERMS. IN OTHER WORDS, THE VOLUME OF PRODUCTION IS MEASURED AFTER REMOVING THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES.

MORE DETAILED INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND IN THE "REPORT ON THE QUARTERLY INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION, SECOND QUARTER 1987".

THIS PUBLICATION IS ON SALE AT $3 A COPY AND CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE OR AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATION SALES COUNTER, 19/F., WANCHAI TOWER 1, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI. REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION MAY ALSO BE ARRANGED WITH THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES CENTRE.

FURTHER ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON 5-8234832.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1?, 1987

Second quarter Industrial Production Index Publisaud

Table I Summary table of quarterly Indices of industrial production by broad industry group, 2nd quarter 1984 to 2nd quarter 1987

(1981 - 100)

Broad industry group Weight 1984 1985 1986 1984 1985 1986 1987

20 3Q *Q 10 2Q 30 4Q 10 20 3Q <0 10 20

1. Food, beverages and tobacco 34.8 119 139 150 123 127 124 126 134 145 150 137 144 162 158 147 159

2. Wearing apparel, except knitwear and footwear 251.3 114 105 125 114 116 121 95 97 105 123 103 122 131 144 125 144

3. Textiles (including knitting) 127.4 115 120 150 119 121 120 86 120 132 141 101 147 175 ♦T7 141 172

4. Paper products and printing 61.3 157 157 183 160 177 169 139 158 164 167 141 178 204 208 194 223

5. Chemical, rubber, plastic and non-oetallic mineral products 110.0 161 160 183 153 200 176 135 164 183 160 134 182 216 201 162 199

6. Basic metals, fabricated metal products and nonelectrical machinery 104.1 132 131 148 139 152 125 108 141 136 138 107 154 162 169 135 in_ »

7. Electrical and electronic products, professional equipment and optical goods 216.2 134 129 145 127 143 155 119 129 130 138 126 143 148 162 157 182

8. Miscellaneous manufacturing industries 94.9 155 114 130 145 168 186 104 106 122 125 121 126 132 141 134 149

All manufacturing industries 1000.0 132 126 146 130 145 144 109 125 132 138 117 144 159 165 145 171

Note : As a result of a recent review of product classification, sponge goods and foam rubber goods hare been reclassified from the rubber products industry to the plastic products Industry. The Indices in respect of broad industry group 5 and that of "All manufacturing industries" are thereby affected. The indices shown are based on the new classification.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 19^7

- 3 -

Second foarter Industrial Production index Puoiisned

Table 2 Quarterly Indices of Industrial production bv Industry group, _________________________2nd quarter 1984 to 2nd quarter 1987 ________

(1981 - 100)

Industry group Weight 1984 1985 1986 _ 1984 1985 1986 1987

2Q 3Q 4Q 10 2Q 30 *0 10 20 30 4Q 10 20

l.l Food' 20.5 119 135 154 124 122 123 129 130 135 148 143 154 155 164 144 164

1.2 Beverage 9.6 109 108 114 124 140 98 81 113 135 102 90 ns 153 99 91 120

1.3 Tobacco 4.7 138 215 206 116 119 179 203 192 210 255 204 161 208 251 276 218

2 Wearing apparel, except knitwear and footwear 251.3 114 105 125 114 116 121 95 97 105 123 103 122 131 144 125 144

3 Textiles (including knitting) 127.4 115 120 150 119 121 120 86 120 132 141 101 147 175 177 141 172

4.1 Paper and paper products 11.9 240 224 256 256 271 243 188 232 263 212 188 263 303 269 298 391

4.2 Newspaper printing, job printing and 49.4 137 141 166 137 155 151 128 140 139 156 130 158 181 194 169 183

other printing

5.1 Chealcals and 15.1 133 161 193 116 148 144 148 154 165 175 152 180 224 216 166 205

chemical products

5.2 Rubber products 3.2 195 147 113 183 205 251 126 175 136 152 91 113 116 130 146 155

5.3 Plastic products 81.1 173 169 194 167 223 188 138 173 198 165 137 194 232 212 167 209

5.4 Non-metalllc mineral products 10.6 97 102 114 94 95 107 92 107 103 107 103 115 118 121 122 124

6.1 Basic metals 9.0 98 90 80 100 98 100 70 90 96 104 79 91 65 84 79 101

6.2 Fabricated metal 77.0 13R 133 152 147 166 126 110 143 139 141 104 158 171 173 129 177

products, except machinery and equipment

6.3 Machinery, except electrical 18.1 124 141 167 125 119 134 119 156 144 144 134 171 172 192 189 199

7.1 Consumer electrical and 103.2 150 135 158 134 165 185 129 138 125 148 135 152 162 182 186 208

electronic products

7.2 Electrical and electronic parts, accessories and machinery 60.3 105 100 100 106 ill 116 96 102 108 94 83 99 112 107 106 130

7.3 Professional and scientific 52.7 134 151 171 136 137 141 125 143 165 169 158 177 163 185 159 189

equipment, photographic and optical goods, watches and clocks

8.1 Leather products and footwear 12.2 68 66 83 74 65 71 50 70 75 71 74 81 84 91 96 116

(except rubber, plastic and wooden footwear)

8.2 Wood and cork 18.5 84 87 99 82 85 83 88 83 84 93 86 95 102 114 93 105

products, and furniture and

fixtures (except primarily of metal)

8.3 Transport equipment 27.0 133 113 136 118 155 147 109 113 118 112 151 161 122 112 125 140

8.4 Miscellaneous manufacturing industries, n.e.c. 37.2 234 144 156 219 253 302 127 124 159 167 133 130 170 192 173 188

AU manufacturing industries 1000.0 132 126 146 130 145 144 109 125 132 138 117 144 159 165 145 171

Note : As a result of a recent review of product classification, sponge goods and foam rubber 1®®** $**• been reclassified from the rubber products industry to the plastic products industry. The indices in respect of industry group. 5.2 5.3 and that of "All m.nuf«ct^<"« industries" sr. thereby affected. The indices shown are based on the new classification.

-----o-----------

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1987

LEGAL CHANGES REQUIRED TO » * »

ENSURE SMOOTH TRANSITION » »

LEGAL CHANGES WILL HAVE TO BE MADE IN THE RUN-UP TO 1997 IN ORDER TO IMPLEMENT THE TERMS OF THE JOINT DECLARATION.

THIS WAS SAID BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR MICHAEL THOMAS, IN A SPEECH TO THE HARVARD LAW SCHOOL EAST ASIAN LEGAL STUDIES PROGRAMME IN BOSTON ON THURSDAY (U.S. TIME). HE WAS ON THE SECOND LEG OF HIS EIGHTDAY OFFICIAL VISIT TO NEW YORK, BOSTON, LONDON AND PARIS TO DISCUSS HONG KONG’S LEGAL SYSTEM.

ADDRESSING HIS AUDIENCE, MR THOMAS SAID THESE CHANGES WERE REQUIRED TO ENSURE A SMOOTH TRANSITION FOR HONG KONG FROM A BRITISH DEPENDENT TERRITORY TO A SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA.

HE SAID THE UK PARLIAMENT HAD ALREADY PASSED THE HONG KONG ACT 1985 UNDER WHICH BRITISH SOVEREIGNTY WOULD BE TERMINATED AS FROM JULY 1, 1997.

"IT WILL ALSO ENABLE THE HONG KONG LEGISLATURE TO DISAPPLY OR AMEND UK STATUTES THAT PRESENTLY APPLY IN HONG KONG AND TO DO WHAT COLONIAL LEGISLATURES ORDINARILY CANNOT DO, NAMELY PASS LAWS WITH EXTRA-TERRITORIAL EFFECT," HE SAID.

THESE POWERS ARE NECESSARY BECAUSE IN SOME IMPORTANT FIELDS, NOTABLY MERCHANT SHIPPING, CIVIL AVIATION, COPYRIGHT AND PATENTS, HONG KONG LAWS ARE PRESENTLY CONTAINED IN UK STATUTES.

AFTER 1997 THESE WOULD BE INCONSISTENT WITH CHINESE SOVEREIGNTY, SO HONG KONG HAD TO MAKE ITS OWN LAWS IN THESE AREAS, MR THOMAS SAID.

MR THOMAS ALSO SAID THE MANY TREATIES APPLICABLE TO HONG KONG WERE BEING EXAMINED ONE BY ONE IN A LEGAL SUB-GROUP OF THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP.

POLICIES RELATING TO LAND HAD BEEN DISCUSSED IN THE LAND COMMISSION COMPRISING CHINESE AND HONG KONG GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS, HE ADDED.

"SO, AS YOU CAN SEE, THERE IS A GREAT DEAL BEING DONE, AND TO BE DONE, TO PREPARE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NEW HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA," MR THOMAS SAID.

BEFORE FLYING ON TO LONDON, MR THOMAS WILL DELIVER A SPEECH TO THE BOSTON BAR ASSOCIATION.

--------o ---------

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1987

5 -

GOVERNOR TO VISIT CAS CAMP » t *

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AND LADY WILSON WILL VISIT THE CIVIL AID SERVICES YUEN TUN CAMP AT TSING LUNG TAU, NEW TERRITORIES, ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 21) MORNING.

ACCOMPANIED BY THE CIVIL AID SERVICES COMMISSIONER, SIR ROGER LOBO, THEY WILL FLY BY HELICOPTER TO YUEN TUN CAMP, WHERE THEY WILL MEET THE CAS CHIEF STAFF OFFICER, MR JOHN FORTUNE, AND OTHER SENIOR OFFICERS.

A BRIEFING ON THE LAYOUT OF THE CAMP AND THE USE OF $1.5 MILLION DONATED BY THE HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB (CHARITIES) FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT, WILL BE GIVEN IN THE ADMINISTRATION BLOCK.

THEY WILL THEN INSPECT JUNIOR OFFICERS ATTENDING A TRAINING COURSE ON INCIDENT CONTROL PLANNING.

SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON WILL OBSERVE TWO TRAINING EXERCISES IN LIGHT RESCUE AND CASUALTY HANDLING AT THE SPORTS GROUND. THEY WILL ALSO WATCH LIFE SAVING TRAINING AND CADET ACTIVITIES INCLUDING A ROPE INITIATIVE COURSE, BICYCLE FOOTBALL, ARCHERY AND A PIONEERING COURSE IN CAMP-CRAFT.

LATER, THEY WILL VISIT THE OLD YUEN TUN VILLAGE MUSEUM AND ATTEND A TEA RECEPTION, BEFORE LEAVING BY HELICOPTER.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOUR ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE GOVERNOR’S VISIT TO THE YUEN TUN CAMP ON SATURDAY.

TRANSPORT WILL BE PROVIDED AND WILL LEAVE THE CAS KOWLOON TRAINING CENTRE AT 204 ARGYLE STREET, KOWLOON, FOR YUEN TUN CAMP AT 9.30 AM. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE REQUESTED TO REPORT TO MR WONG SHUT-YUNG, SENIOR TRAINING OFFICER (NT) AND CO-ORDINATOR OF THE EVENT, AT THE CAS KOWLOON TRAINING CENTRE OR AT THE CAMP.

--------o ----------

/6........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 198?

LEGISLATIVE AMENDMENTS FOR HARMONIZED SYSTEM

» ♦ » » «

LEGISLATIVE AMENDMENTS WILL BE MADE TO A NUMBER OF ORDINANCES TO COPE WITH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE HARMONIZED SYSTEM (HS).

THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS ORDERED THAT UNDER SECTION 31 OF THE IMPORT AND EXPORT ORDINANCE (CHAPTER 60) AND SECTION 36 OF THE INDUSTRIAL TRAINING (CLOTHING INDUSTRY) ORDINANCE (CHAPTER 318), THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (REGISTRATION) (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS 1987 AND THE INDUSTRIAL TRAINING (CLOTHING INDUSTRY) (AMENDMENT OF SCHEDULE) ORDER 1987 SHOULD BE MADE.

A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE AMENDMENTS WERE NECESSARY TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT CHANGES IN COMMODITY DESCRIPTIONS AND CODINGS CONSEQUENTIAL TO HONG KONG’S FORTHCOMING ADOPTION OF A NEW SYSTEM OF IMPORT AND EXPORT CLASSIFICATION - THE HARMONIZED COMMODITY DESCRIPTION AND CODING SYSTEM (HARMONIZED SYSTEM IN SHORT).

"THE OPPORTUNITY WOULD ALSO BE TAKEN TO EXEMPT THE MOVEMENT OF BANKNOTES AND COINS IN CIRCULATION INTO AND OUT OF HONG KONG FROM IMPORT AND EXPORT DECLARATION REQUIREMENTS," HE ADDED.

THE HARMONIZED SYSTEM IS A NEW NAMING AND CODING SYSTEM TO SIMPLIFY INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND TRANSACTIONS AND TO RATIONALISE AND HARMONISE TRADE DOCUMENTATION.

HONG KONG WILL ADOPT THE HS IN ORDER TO SYNCHRONISE WITH ITS MAJOR TRADING PARTNERS. THE ADOPTION WILL BE ON THE BASIS OF PARTIAL APPLICATION INITIALLY TO AVOID INCONVENIENCING TRADERS AND ADVERSELY AFFECTING THE ECONOMY.

AS REGARDS BANKNOTES AND COINS IN CIRCULATION BROUGHT INTO OR OUT OF HONG KONG, THE SPOKESMAN SAID A STRICT INTERPRETATION OF THE PRESENT PROVISIONS OF THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (REGISTRATION) REGULATIONS WOULD SUBJECT THEM TO IMPORT AND EXPORT DECLARATION LODGEMENT REQUIREMENTS.

"THEY ARE HOWEVER REGARDED AS CLAIMS ON CAPITAL, AND ARE NOT INCLUDED IN TRADE STATISTICS."

IN PREPARATION FOR THE NEW SYSTEM, THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT AND THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT HAVE BEEN ORGANISING A SERIES OF SEMINARS TO EXPLAIN THE NEW SYSTEM TO TRADERS. THERE HAS ALSO BEEN PUBLICITY OF THE NEW SYSTEM THROUGH THE LOCAL MEDIA AND THE PUBLICATION OF A BILINGUAL HANDBOOK.

THE TRADE DEPARTMENT WILL SOON ORGANISE A LARGE SEMINAR IN THE CITY HALL FOR THE TEXTILES TRADE REGARDING THE NEW CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM.

TO TIE IN WITH THE ADOPTION OF THE HARMONIZED SYSTEM, THE LEGISLATIVE AMENDMENTS WILL COME INTO EFFECT ON JANUARY 1 NEXT YEAR.

-------o-----------

/7........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1987

SEMINAR ON HARMONIZED SYSTEM

» » »

THE TRADE DEPARTMENT IS TO ORGANISE A SEMINAR ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, TO EXPLAIN TO THE TRADE THE EFFECTS OF THE HARMONIZED COMMODITY DESCRIPTION AND CODING SYSTEM (THE HARMONIZED SYSTEM OR HS) WHICH WILL BE IMPLEMENTED FROM JANUARY 1, NEXT YEAR. ,

THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE HARMONIZED SYSTEM WILL BRING ABOUT RE-CATEGORISATION OF CERTAIN PRODUCTS UNDER HONG KONG’S BILATERAL TEXTILES AGREEMENTS WITH ITS TRADING PARTNERS.

ALSO, WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF THE NEW SYSTEM, APPLICANTS FOR EXPORT LICENCE (TEXTILES) FORM 4 AND EXPORT AUTHORISATION WILL BE REQUIRED TO ENTER HONG KONG HS CODES IN PLACE OF STANDARD INTERNATIONAL TRADE CLASSIFICATION (S1TC) CODES, WHILE APPLICANTS FOR CERTIFICATES OF ORIGIN (FORM A) WILL BE REQUIRED TO ENTER HS CODES IN PLACE OF CUSTOMS CO-OPERATION COUNCIL NOMENCLATURE (CCCN) CODES.

THE AIM OF THE SEMINAR IS TO EXPLAIN THE KEY CHANGES AND TO PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THE TRADE TO RAISE QUESTIONS. THE SEMINAR, WHICH WILL BE CONDUCTED IN CANTONESE, WILL TAKE PLACE AT CITY HALL CONCERT HALL FROM 10 AM TO 12.30 PM.

IT WILL BE OPENED BY THE DIRECTOR OF TRADE, MR MICHAEL SZE. THERE WILL BE BRIEFING SESSIONS FOR VARIOUS MARKETS EACH GIVEN BY AN ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF TRADE AND HIS OFFICERS. A SMALL ADMISSION FEE OF ,20 PER PERSON WILL BE CHARGED.

TICKET ORDER FORMS FOR THE SEMINAR ARE OBTAINABLE AT THE DEPARTMENT’S ENQUIRY COUNTER, G/F, OCEAN CENTRE, CANTON ROAD, KOWLOON. COMPANIES INTERESTED IN THE SEMINAR ARE REQUESTED TO RETURN THE COMPLETED TICKET ORDER FORM BY MAIL ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 11 TOGETHER WITH A CROSSED CHEQUE FOR THE NECESSARY PAYMENT, PAYABLE TO "HONG KONG GOVERNMENT", TO THE TRADE DEPARTMENT, OCEAN CENTRE, CANTON ROAD, KOWLOON; OR RETURN IT IN PERSON TOGETHER WITH THE NECESSARY PAYMENT TO TRADE DEPARTMENT’S COLLECTION OFFICE AT ROOM 822, 8/F, OCEAN CENTRE, CANTON ROAD, KOWLOON.

- - 0 ---------

/8........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1987

8 -

FEES FOR HANDLING EXPLOSIVES REVISED * * « * »

THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL HAS APPROVED THREE SETS OF AMENDMENT REGULATIONS WHICH PROVIDE FOR REVISED FEES AND CHARGES FOR THE STORAGE AND DELIVERY OF EXPLOSIVES AND FOR THE ISSUE OF EXPLOSIVE LICENCES/PERMITS AND MINES BLASTING CERTIFICATES.

THE REVISED FEES ARE CONTAINED IN THE DANGEROUS GOODS (GOVERNMENT EXPLOSIVES DEPOTS) (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS 1987, THE DANGEROUS GOODS (GENERAL) (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS 1987 AND THE MINES (SAFETY) (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS 1987, TO BE GAZETTED TOMORROW (FRIDAY).

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE MINES DIVISION OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT SAID THE REVISION FOLLOWED THE RISING OPERATING COSTS AND INCREASED RENTAL FOR THE DEPOTS. THE FEES RELATING TO THE ISSUE OF EXPLOSIVE LICENCES/PERMITS WERE LAST REVISED IN 1983 AND THAT FOR THE STORAGE AND DELIVERY OF EXPLOSIVES IN 1985.

HE EXPECTED THE NEW FEES WOULD HAVE MINIMAL EFFECT ON THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AS THE COSTS OF EXPLOSIVES FORMED ONLY A VERY SMALL PART OF THE TOTAL COSTS OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS.

THE OLD AND NEW FEES FOR SOME OF THE SERVICES SET OUT IN THE THREE REGULATIONS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

OLD NEW

♦ FOR STORAGE OF EXPLOSIVES PER 50 KG 175 $82.5

t FOR DELIVERY OF EXPLOSIVES NOT EXCEEDING 50 KG $850 $935

♦ FOR ISSUE OF A PERMIT TO DISCHARGE EXPLOSIVES $11,200 PER ANNUM $14,000 PER ANNUM

» FOR ISSUE OF A MINES BLASTING CERTIFICATE $305 $335

» FOR RENEWAL OR ENDORSEMENT OF A MINES BLASTING CERTIFICATE $245 $270

» FOR REPLACEMENT OF A MINES $ 55 $ 60

BLASTING CERTIFICATE

THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE DANGEROUS GOODS STANDING COMMITTEE HAD BEEN CONSULTED AND HAD AGREED TO THE INCREASES.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 19^7

SPEEDPOST SERVICE FURTHER EXTENDED

*****

THE SPEEDPOST SERVICE WILL BE EXTENDED TO LAGOS IN NIGERIA FROM MONDAY (NOVEMBER 23), A SPOKESMAN FOR THE POST OFFICE ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY).

THIS WILL BRING TO 52 THE NUMBER OF COUNTRIES INCLUDED IN THE SPEEDPOST NETWORK SERVED FROM HONG KONG.

•’SPEEDPOST ITEMS POSTED ON MONDAY TO FRIDAY WILL BE DELIVERED IN LAGOS ON THE SECOND WORKING DAY WHILE THOSE POSTED ON SATURDAY WILL BE DELIVERED ON THE NEXT WORKING DAY,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT LIMIT IS 20 KG PER ITEM AND THE POSTAGE RATES ARE: $120 FOR ITEMS WEIGHING UNDER 250 G; $150 FOR ITEMS WEIGHING BETWEEN 250 G AND 500 G; AND $40 FOR EACH SUBSEQUENT ADDITIONAL 500 G. PICK UP SERVICE BY THE POST OFFICE FROM CUSTOMERS PREMISES IS FREE.

INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPEEDPOST SERVICE TO NIGERIA AND THE SPEEDPOST SERVICE IN GENERAL CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE POSTAL SERVICES REPRESENTATIVES ON 5-8471108.

-----0------

FAMILY SERVICES TO BE STRENGTHENED * * »

THE GOVERNMENT IS FULLY AWARE OF THE NEED TO STRENGTHEN THE FAMILY AS A UNIT AND TO THIS END THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN CHANNELLING MORE RESOURCES TO THE FIELD OF FAMILY SERVICES, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).

ADDRESSING THE 38TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE HONG KONG FAMILY WELFARE SOCIETY AT THE DUKE OF WINDSOR SOCIAL SERVICE BUILDING, MRS WONG SAID THAT SINCE APRIL THE DEPARTMENT HAD INCREASED THE NUMBER OF ITS FAMILY SERVICES CENTRES FROM 22 TO 26.

’’PLANS ARE IN HAND TO ADD ONE MORE CENTRE BEFORE THE END OF THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR AND THREE ADDITIONAL CENTRES IN THE NEXT ONE.

”AT THE SAME TIME, WE AIM TO REDUCE THE CASELOAD OF FAMILY SERVICE WORK, ALTHOUGH WE FACE STAFF WASTAGE AND RECRUITMENT PROBLEMS,” SHE SAID.

’’ALONG WITH THE VOLUNTARY AGENCIES WHICH PROVIDE A VARIETY OF FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES INCLUDING COUNSELLING, FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION, HOME HELP AND OTHER PILOT PROGRAMMES, I AM CONFIDENT THAT THE COMMUNITY MAY ENJOY A HIGHER QUALITY OF FAMILY SERVICES.”

/MRS WONG........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1987

10 -

MRS WONG DESCRIBED THE FAMILY AS PERHAPS THE MOST IMPORTANT INSTITUTION AND, TO STRENGTHEN A COMMUNITY, THE FAMILY HAD TO BE MADE STABLE AND STRONG.

SHE NOTED THAT IN HONG KONG, WITH THE ESTABLISHMENT OF NUCLEUS FAMILIES AND THE MOVEMENT OF FAMILIES FROM URBAN AREAS TO NEW TOWNS, FAMILY TIES AND FAMILY SUPPORT WERE WEAKER THAN IN PRE-WAR DAYS,

THE FAMILY TODAY AND ITS MEMBERS HAD ALSO TO COPE WITH A VARIETY OF PROBLEMS AND STRESS IN THE FACE OF A QUICKER TEMPO IN LIFE, AND THUS THE NEED FOR FAMILY SERVICES HAD NEVER BEEN SO GREAT AS IT WAS NOW, SHE ADDED.

MRS WONG COMPLIMENTED THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND THE STAFF OF THE FAMILY WELFARE SOCIETY FOR THEIR PIONEERING ROLE IN FAMILY WELFARE AND FOR THE WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES OFFERED.

-----0------

1981 PRIVATE CARS FALL UNDER INSPECTION SCHEME

*****

PRIVATE CARS MANUFACTURED IN 1981 WHICH REQUIRE A NEW LICENCE COMMENCING ON OR AFTER APRIL 1 NEXT YEAR MUST PASS A ROADWORTHINESS TEST PRIOR TO LICENCE RENEWAL, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT REMINDED CAR OWNERS TODAY (THURSDAY).

"WITH THE APPROACH OF 1988, IT IS ONLY NATURAL THAT 1981 CARS SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE INSPECTION SCHEME," HE CONTINUED.

THERE ARE 17 DESIGNATED CAR TESTING CENTRES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE HARBOUR AND APPOINTMENTS FOR INSPECTION MAY BE MADE FOUR MONTHS BEFORE THE EXPIRY DATE OF THE VEHICLE LICENCE.

THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT THE CERTIFICATE OF ROADWORTHINESS FOR ANY PRIVATE CAR WHICH HAD PASSED THE TEST MUST BE PRESENTED TO THE DEPARTMENT WITHIN FOUR MONTHS OF THE ISSUE DATE FOR RELICENSING A VEHICLE, OTHERWISE ITS VALIDITY WOULD LAPSE.

/should a .......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 198?

SHOULD A CAR OWNER DISAGREE WITH THE RESULT OF A TEST, HE CAN APPEAL TO THE DEPARTMENT FOR A FRESH, INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION.

"TO AVOID UNNECESSARY INCONVENIENCE, CAR OWNERS SHOULD HAVE THEIR VEHICLES CHECKED AND REPAIRED BEFORE THE INSPECTION APPOINTMENT WITH CAR TESTING CENTRES," THE SPOKESMAN URGED.

FOR ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL 5-200933.

MORE SHELTERED WORKSHOPS TO BE PROVIDED *****

EIGHTEEN SHELTERED WORKSHOPS WITH ABOUT 2,500 PLACES WILL BE PROVIDED IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS TO MEET THE DEMAND OF THE DISABLED, THE REGIONAL SOCIAL WORK OFFICER (NEW TERRITORIES), MR CARLOS LEUNG, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).

MR LEUNG WAS SPEAKING AT THE PRIZE-GIVING CEREMONY FOR THE "TUEN MUN ’87: TOWARDS BETTER MENTAL HEALTH" CAMPAIGN AND OPEN DAY OF THE BUTTERFLY BAY SHELTERED WORKSHOP.

MR LEUNG NOTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD BEEN ACTIVELY PROVIDING REHABILITATIVE SERVICES IN CO-OPERATION WITH VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND THAT SHELTERED WORKSHOP WAS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT TYPES OF SERVICES.

"THESE WORKSHOPS CATER FOR BOTH PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY HANDICAPPED PEOPLE TO HELP THEM BUILD UP THEIR WORKING CAPACITY AND CONFIDENCE AND PREPARE THEM TO RETURN TO EMPLOYMENT," HE SAID.

"AT PRESENT, THERE ARE 28 SHELTERED WORKSHOPS IN HONG KONG, WITH 11 OPERATED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND THE OTHER 17 BY VOLUNTARY AGENCIES, PROVIDING ABOUT 3,000 PLACES,” HE ADDED.

THE BUTTERFLY BAY SHELTERED WORKSHOP, WHICH STARTED OPERATION IN NOVEMBER 1985, PROVIDES 160 PLACES MAINLY FOR RESIDENTS IN TUEN MUN AND YUEN LONG. IN ADDITION TO JOB TRAINING PROVIDED BY WORKSHOP INSTRUCTORS, COUNSELLING SERVICES AS WELL AS SOCIAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES ARE ALSO ARRANGED BY SOCIAL WORK STAFF FOR THE WORKERS.

"APART FROM DIRECT REHABILITATIVE SERVICES, COMMUNITY EDUCATION IS EQUALLY IMPORTANT IN THE PREVENTION OF MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS," MR LEUNG SAID.

THROUGH A SERIES OF PROGRAMMES, THE "TUEN MUN '87 : TOWARDS BETTER MENTAL HEALTH" CAMPAIGN HAD HELPED RESIDENTS TO APPRECIATE THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTAINING BOTH PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH AND TO LEARN TO COPE WITH THE PRESSURE OF THE HECTIC LIFE-STYLE OF HONG KONG, HE ADDED.

- - 0 -

/12

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19,

1987

- 12 -

TAC TO VIEW LION ROCK TUNNEL NO-TOLL EXPERIMENT * * * *

THE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) WILL VISIT LION ROCK TUNNEL ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 23) TO OBSERVE THE EFFECTS OF THE ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND NO-TOLL EXPERIMENT AT THE TUNNEL.

THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, AND THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT, MR JAMES SO, WILL ALSO BE PRESENT.

THE EXPERIMENT, TO BE IMPLEMENTED FOR FOUR WEEKS FROM NOVEMBER 23, IS DESIGNED TO ASSESS WHETHER TRAFFIC FLOW THROUGH THE TUNNEL CAN BE IMPROVED.

MEMBERS WILL VIEW THE SITUATION FROM THE TUNNEL CONTROL ROOM. THEY WILL BE BRIEFED BY MR SO AND BY THE DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS, MR HAROLD BEATON, ON TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT MEASURES IMPLEMENTED DURING THE EXPERIMENT AND IMPROVEMENTS TO TAI PO ROAD.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT. A PRESS COACH WILL BE AVAILABLE TO TAKE MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES TO AND FROM THE LION ROCK TUNNEL. IT WILL LEAVE FROM THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES CARPARK AT 7.30 AM ON MONDAY.

BEFORE LEAVING FOR A TOUR OF THE WATERLOO ROAD AND CORNWALL STREET AREA TO ASSESS TRAFFIC CONDITIONS THERE, THE TAC CHAIRMAN, MISS MARIA TAM, WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR A SHORT INTERVIEW WITH THE PRESS IN THE CARPARK OF THE TUNNEL CONTROL BUILDING.

-----o-----

WEEKEND SEMINAR FOR SAFETY OFFICERS

* * * *

MORE THAN 150 PRACTISING SAFETY OFFICERS IN THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR WILL ATTEND A TWO-DAY RESIDENTIAL SEMINAR IN MACAU THIS WEEKEND.

THE EVENT IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ASSOCIATION (HKOSHA), HONG KONG INDUSTRIAL SAFETY ASSOCIATION (HKISA), MACAU LABOUR DEPARTMENT, AND THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE DIVISION OF LABOUR DEPARTMENT WITH THE SPONSORSHIP OF THE SHELL COMPANY OF HONG KONG LTD.

/IT IS .......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19. 198?

IT IS AIMED AT ENHANCING UNDERSTANDING AND CO-OPERATION BETWEEN SAFETY OFFICERS, MANAGEMENT AND THE GOVERNMENT IN CONNECTION WITH THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (SAFETY OFFICERS AND SAFETY SUPERVISORS) REGULATIONS WHICH COME INTO EFFECT ON DECEMBER 1 THIS YEAR.

THE SEMINAR WILL REVIEW PROBLEMS FACED BY SAFETY OFFICERS, THE FUNCTION OF SAFETY OFFICERS FROM THE MANAGEMENT POINT OF VIEW, AND THE SPIRIT OF THE SAFETY OFFICERS REGULATIONS.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS INCLUDE THE CHAIRMAN OF HKISA, MR PETER YU; VICE-CHAIRMAN OF HKOSHA, MR W.H. WONG; AND THE CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, MR YIP YUK-LUN.

A SENIOR REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE MACAU GOVERNMENT WILL GIVE A TALK ON THE DEVELOPMENT AND ORGANISATION OF SAFETY AT WORK IN MACAU AND IN PORTUGAL.

THE SEMINAR WILL BE OPENED ON SATURDAY BY THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMICS OF MACAU, DR ANTONIO GALHARDO SIMOES; THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE SHELL COMPANY, MR HANMER WEBB-PEPLOE; AND THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR HAROLD KWOK.

--------0----------

COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS HAWKER RE-ORDERING EXERCISE * * * *

MEMBERS OF SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE WILL MEET TOMORROW (FRIDAY) TO CONSIDER THE HAWKERS’ REQUEST FOR DEFERRING THE SHUN NING ROAD HAWKER RE-ORDERING EXERCISE.

THE PROPOSED EXERCISE, SUBMITTED BY THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, WAS DISCUSSED AT THE BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE ON OCTOBER 16 WHERE MEMBERS SUPPORTED THE EXERCISE TO BE CARRIED OUT IN DECEMBER.

IT WAS PROPOSED THAT THE RECONSTRUCTION AND UPGRADING OF ROAD SURFACE AND DRAINAGE OF CHEUNG FAT STREET, FAT TSUEN STREET AND WING LUNG STREET WOULD BE CARRIED OUT BY THE END OF THIS YEAR, AND LICENSED HAWKERS ALONG THESE STREETS WOULD HAVE TO BE TEMPORARILY RESITED ALONG SHUN NING ROAD.

THE ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE WILL ALSO DISCUSS PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO THE AMENITY PLOTS ON NAM CHEONG STREET NULLAH DECK, AND THE SECURITY PROBLEM IN TAI HANG TUNG ESTATE, PHASE 4 AND 5.

/THE MEETING .......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19$ 19$7

- 14 -

THE MEETING WILL START AT 2.15 PM IN THE CONFERENCE SHAM SHUT PO DISTRICT BOARD, 39 TONKIN STREET, SECOND FLOOR,

ROOM OF KOWLOON.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT ^OARD ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.15 PM TOMORR (FRIDAY).

-----o------

VIDEO WALL SHOWS "NOW AND THEN" OF EASTERN DISTRICT

*****

THOSE PEOPLE WHO HAVE SEEN THE VIDEO SHOW ABOUT EASTERN DISTRICT IN THE LAST FEW DAYS AT THE CITYPLAZA, TAIKOO SHING, WOULD HAVE BEEN IMPRESSED BY THE SPECTACULAR HI-TECH PRESENTATION ON A 64-TV-MONITOR VIDEO WALL.

THE SHOW WILL MOVE TO THE EXHIBITION AREA AT CHAI WAN MTR STATION FROM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) TO NOVEMBER 24 AND TO HENG FA CHUEN SHOPPING ARCADE FROM NOVEMBER 25 TO 29.

THE VIDEO PRESENTATION IS ONE OF THE MAJOR ATTRACTIONS OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL WHICH HELPS TO PUBLICIZE THE FESTIVAL’S THEME — PARTICIPATE IN YOUR DISTRICT’S DEVELOPMENT.

COSTING $500,000 THE VIDEO WALL IS SPONSORED BY SEVERAL COMMERCIAL ORGANISATIONS AND THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD. IT IS AN EYE-CATCHING AND MEMORABLE PRESENTATION USING MUSIC AND PICTURES TO DEPICT THE DEVELOPMENT OF EASTERN DISTRICT.

THE EIGHT MINUTE-SHOW ILLUSTRATES THE HUGE CONTRASTS BETWEEN THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF YESTERDAY AND TODAY. IT ALSO TRACES THE CHANGES IN THE WAY OF LIFE AND PORTRAYS THE EXCITING DEVELOPMENT AHEAD IN LIFESTYLE, RECREATION AND AMENITIES.

THE PRESENTATION, ENTITLED "A PLACE IN THE SUN", HAS A CANTONESE THEME SONG SUNG BY POPULAR SINGER, MR TERENCE CHOI.

THE VIDEO IS DIVIDED INTO FIVE PARTS WITH DIFFERENT STYLE OF PRESENTATION AND SPECIAL EFFECTS TO DEPICT DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF THE DISTRICT.

IN ADDITION TO THE VIDEO SHOW, A PHOTO EXHIBITION ON THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF EASTERN DISTRICT WILL ALSO BE STAGED IN HENG FA CHURN.

--------0-----------

/15.......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1987

DB TO DISCUSS DESIGNATION OF » ♦ * ♦

TSIU HANG SPECIAL AREA *

MEMBERS OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD (FRIDAY) TO DISCUSS THE DESIGNATION OF TSIU HANG FOR CONSERVATION PURPOSE.

WILL MEET TOMORROW AS A SPECIAL AREA

THE PAR

THE PROPOSED SPECIAL AREA IS LOCATED

SHA WAN PENINSULA AND

ADJOINING MA ON SHAN COUNTRY PARK

CONSISTS

IN THE NORTHERN PART OF OF TWO PIECE? OF LAND

THE SPECIAL AREA IS PLANNED CENTRE FOR EDUCATION AND EMJOYMENT

TO BE DEVELOPED INTO A CCUNlRYfilDB OF THE PUBLIC.

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA

_______ — -------- INCLUDE REPORTS BY REPRESENTATIVE IN THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR WAN YUET-KAJ DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND THE FINANCIAL POSITION BOARD FUNDS.

THE

THE I OF

! BOARD'S SAI KUNG DISTRICT

NOTE TO EDITORS:

ARB INVITKD To COVER THE MEETING TOMORROW (FRIDAY) CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD, SECOND FLOOR MAN NIN STREET, SAI KUNG TOWN. THE MEETING

KUNG WILL

GOVERNMENT OFFICES, BEGIN AT 10 AM.

THE SAI

- - 0 - -

SEMINAR FOR SAI

KUNG ENGLISH-SPEAKING RESIDENTS t ♦ » * ♦

ENGLISH-SPEAKING RESIDENTS OF SAI KUNG WILL BE

(FRIDAY)

ABOUT THE DISTRICT’S LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN

ABLE TO LEARN SEMINAR TOMORROW

ORGANISED BY THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT

COVER SUBJECTS

EDUCATION FOR

SUCH AS TRAFFIC AND

ENGLISH-SPEAKING

BOARD, TRANSPORT

THE SEMINAR WILL

RECREATIONAL FACILITIES CONDUCTED IN ENGLISH.

IN THE

CHILDREN AND

DISTRICT. ]

SERVICES REGIONAL

DISCUSSIONS

PRIMARY COUNCIL'S WILL BE

OFFICER, REGIONAL

SPEAKERS AT THE

MR KEVIN HO; THE

SERVICES

SEMINAR DISTRICT

WILL INCLUDE SAI KUNG

LEISURE MANAGER (SAI KUNG)

MR DAVID WEBSTER; SCHOOL.

DEPARTMENT, MR CHARLES CHU; TRAFFIC

DISTRICT OF THE ENGINEER,

AND A REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE BOUNDARY JUNIOR

THE SEMINAR

WILL START AT 7.30 PM

CHENG CHEK CHEE SECONDARY SCHOOL, HIRAM’S KUNG.

IN THE ART ROOM OF THE HIGHWAY, CHUK KOK, SAI

- - 0 -

/16

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19,

1987

SCHOOL PARADE TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION *****

ABOUT 1,500 STUDENTS FROM 51 PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF KWUN TONG WILL TAKE PART IN A GRAND PARADE AT THE KOWLOON BAY RECREATION GROUND ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 21) MORNING.

ORGANISED BY THE KWUN TONG SCHOOL LIAISON COMMITTEE, THE EVENT IS INTENDED TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION AMONG STUDENTS AND TO PROVIDE THEM WITH A WORTHWHILE EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITY. IT WILL START AT 10 AM.

THE PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE A JOINT SCHOOL CHOIR, A COSTUME COMPETITION, AS WELL AS TELEMATCHES TO HIGHLIGHT VARIOUS ASPECTS OF CIVIC EDUCATION.

THESE WILL COVER TOPICS SUCH AS "ANTI -CORRUPTION", "ANTINARCOTICS", "ROAD SAFETY", "RESPECT FOR THE ELDER)Y", "CLEAN HONG KONG" AND "I LOVE HONG KONG".

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR DAVID LAN; KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDDY CHAN; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM HANG-FAI; AID PRESIDENT OF KWUN TONG SCHOOL LIAISON COMMITTEE, MR FRANK NG.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KWUN TONG JOINT SCHOOL GRAND PARADE TO BEGIN AT 10 AM ON SATURDAY AT THE KOWLOON BAY RECREATION GROUND.

- - 0 -

DANCE FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY

* * *

MORE THAN 350 ELDERLY PEOPLE WILL DEMONSTRATE THEIR DANCING SKILLS AT THE HONG KONG DANCE FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY 1987 TO BE HELD AT THE KO SHAN THEATRE ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 21).

THE PARTICIPANTS, ALL AGED OVER 60, ARE MEMBERS OF SOCIAL SERVICE CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY, HOMES FOR THE AGED, WOMEN WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS AND OTHER ORGANISATIONS.

APART FROM PROVIDING AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THE ELDERLY TO IMPROVE THEIR DANCING SKILLS, THE ANNUAL EVENT ALSO ENABLES THEM TO GET TOGETHER IN SHARING THEIR INTEREST AND FUN, THUS ENCOURAGING THEM TO ADOPT A POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARD LIFE.

/prizes will

THURSDAY, NOVEMBBB 19, 1987

- 17 -

PRIZES WILL BE PRESENTED TO WINNERS FROM THE 32 TEAMS PERFORMING IN VARIOUS TYPES OF DANCES, INCLUDING CHINESE, FOLK, MODERN AND AEROBIC.

THE FESTIVAL, SPONSORED BY THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD AND THE LOK SIN TONG, IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT COUNCIL FOR THE WELFARE AND RECREATION FOR THE ELDERLY, THE HOLY CARPENTER CHURCH MULTI-SERVICE CENTRE, THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE DISTRICT OFFICE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE HONG KONG DANCE FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY 1987 WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 9 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 21) AT THE KO SHAN THEATRE, TO KWA WAN.

-----o------

EXHIBITION TO SUPPORT "WE CARE” ACTIVITIES

*****

UNIFORMED MEMBERS OF FOUR DISCIPLINARY FORCES - THE POLICE, AND THE IMMIGRATION, THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES AND THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENTS - WILL BE ON HAND FOR A FRIENDLY CHAT WITH RESIDENTS ABOUT THEIR WORK AND CAREER DURING AN EXHIBITION AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT ON DECEMBER 6 (SUNDAY).

THE EXHIBITION, ENTITLED "WE CARE", IS CO-ORGANISED BY THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS (TWGH) AND ICAC, AND CO-ORDINATED BY THE "WE CARE" CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT.

THE EXHIBITION WILL FEATURE INTERESTING TOPICS CONCERNING THE DISCIPLINARY FORCES SUCH AS CORRECTIONAL SERVICES INDUSTRIES, IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EASY TRAVEL SCHEME, ANTI-NARCOTICS OPERATIONS, FIGHT CRIME AND ANTI-CORRUPTION PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES, AS WELL AS THE WORK OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS.

THOSE INTERESTED IN A CAREER IN THESE FORCES CAN OBTAIN INFORMATION AND LEAFLETS AT THE EXHIBITION.

A BRIEF OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT NOON. OFFICIATING GUESTS INCLUDE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE TWGH, MRS THERESA LAUJ CHAIRMAN OF THE "WE CARE" ACTIVITIES CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE, MR SAMMY POONE; ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, MR FRANCIS WONG; AND ASSISTANT CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICi OFFICER, MISS ELIZABETH TSE.

--------o ----------

118......

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1937

- 18 -

COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB TO HOLD ANNUAL PARADE

*****

THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB (CYC) WILL HOLD ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY ANNUAL PARADE AT THE HONG KONG COLISEUM IN HUNG HOM TOMORROW (FRIDAY).

• THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y. T. LI, WILL TAKE THE SALUTE AND PRESENT AWARDS TO CYC MEMBERS AT THE PARADE.

MORE THAN 10,000 CYC MEMBERS FROM VARIOUS SCHOOLS, SUPERVISORS AND TEACHERS INVOLVED IN CYC ACTIVITIES WILL ATTEND THE PARADE WHICH WILL ALSO FEATURE A DRAGON DANCE, BAND MARCH, A MUSICAL DRAMA AND A CHILDREN’S CHOIR.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT WHICH WILL BEGIN AT HONG KONG COLISEUM AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES SHOULD ARRIVE AT THE COLISEUM BEFORE 2.15 PM AND ENTER BY THE GREEN GATE.

0 --------

MUSIC OFFICE PRESENTS CELEBRATION CONCERTS * * *

TWO CONCERTS WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AND ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22) AS PART OF A SERIES OF PUBLIC PERFORMANCES OF THE YOUTH CHINESE MUSIC WEEK.

THE MUSIC EVENT, WHICH STARTED LAST SATURDAY AND WILL END ON SUNDAY, IS ORGANISED TO CELEBRATE THE MUSIC OFFICE’S TENTH ANNIVERSARY.

THE EVENING OF CHINESE FOLK AND OPERATIC MUSIC WILL BE HELD AT THE SHATIN TOWN HALL TOMORROW AT 8 PM. THE REPERTOIRE INCLUDES CHINESE FOLK SONGS, FUJIAN TUNES, CANTONESE OPERA, HAN OPERA AND BEIJING OPERA. POPULAR LOCAL MUSICIANS MR LAW KAR-YING AND MR TONG KIN-WOON WILL PERFORM.

ON SUNDAY, THREE GUEST MUSICIANS FROM CHINA WILL GIVE SOLO PERFORMANCES AT A GALA CONCERT AT TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL. THE CONCERT WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM.

A LIMITED NUMBER OF TICKETS FOR THE TWO CONCERTS, PRICED AT J5 AND »10, ARE STILL AVAILABLE AT ALL URBTIX OUTLETS. FURTHER ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 0-4928127 AND 0-6065731.

MEANWHILE, THE HONG KONG CHINESE ORCHESTRA HAS ALSO STAGED A FREE STUDENT CONCERT TODAY AT THE KO SHAN THEATRE IN SUPPORT OF CHE MUSIC OFFICE’S ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS.

- - 0 -------

/19........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1987

SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR RELIGIOUS CELEBRATION

*****

A SERIES OF TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN WAN CHAI ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22) IN CONNECTION WITH THE CELEBRATION OF THE FEAST OF CHRIST THE KING 1987 AT THE HONG KONG STADIUM.

THE FOLLOWING MEASURES, UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, WILL BE IN FORCE FROM 1.30 PM UNTIL CROWDS HAVE DISPERSED AFTER THE EVENT.

» CAROLINE HILL ROAD WEST BETWEEN LEIGHTON ROAD AND STADIUM PATH WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND FROM 1.30 PM TO 5.45 PM. THE SAME ROAD SECTION WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND FROM 5.45 PM UNTIL DISPERSAL OF THE MAJORITY OF PARTICIPANTS IN THE FEAST.

* CAROLINE HILL ROAD EAST BETWEEN EASTERN HOSPITAL ROAD AND COTTON PATH WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC EXCEPT FOR LOCAL ACCESS.

* EASTERN HOSPITAL ROAD BETWEEN STADIUM PATH AND TUNG LO WAN ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND, BUT VEHICLES WILL STILL BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE ST. PAUL’S HOSPITAL CARPARK FROM TUNG LO WAN ROAD.

» LINK ROAD BETWEEN CAROLINE HILL ROAD AND BROADWOOD ROAD WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY UPHILL FROM 1.30 PM TO 5.45 PM. VEHICLES LEAVING THE UPPER SECTION OF BROADWOOD ROAD, HAPPY VIEW TERRACE AND LEIGHTON HILL SHOULD PROCEED VIA BROADWOOD ROAD TO WONG NAI CHUNG ROAD. THE SAME SECTION OF LINK ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC EXCEPT FOR LOCAL ACCESS FROM 5.45 PM UNTIL CROWDS HAVE DISPERSED.

MEANWHILE, ALL PARKING SPACES AT STADIUM PATH AND THE UNNAMED SERVICE ROAD AROUND THE STADIUM WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 12 NOON TO 30 MINUTES AFTER THE EVENT HAS FINISHED.

- - 0 - -

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES IN CENTRAL, WAN CHAI

*****

FROM 8 AM TO 10 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22), LAN KWAI FONG IN CENTRAL WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC TO FACILITATE THE FIFTH ANNIVERSARY ACTIVITIES OF LAN KWAI FONG TENANTS COMMITTEE.

IN WAN CHAI ON THE SAME DAY, LUNG ON STREET AND THE SECTION OF STONE NULLAH LANE SOUTH OF KAT ON STREET WILL ALSO BE CLOSED BETWEEN 11 AM AND 5 PM, FOR A SOCIAL COMMUNITY FUNCTION ORGANISED BY THE ST JAMES’ SETTLEMENT.

DURING THE TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN WAN CHAI, THE PARKING SPACES ALONG STONE NULLAH LANE WILL BE SUSPENDED.

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 198?

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

GOVERNOR EMPHASISES IMPORTANCE OF PRIVATE AID EFFORTS..... 1

SPOCK MARKET WILL REMAIN IMPORTANT ELEMENT .................. 1

SEPTEMBER ORDERS-ON-HAND, EMPLOYMENT, PAYROLL FIGURES RELEASED 4

TOWN PLANNING (AMENDMENT) BILL GAZETTED...................... 8

THREE OUTLINE ZONING PLANS AMENDED .......................... 8

NEW VALUATION LISPS BEING PREPARED ......................... 10

TERRITORY'S ADVANTAGES TO U.S. FIRMS OUTLINED IN SEMINAR .... 11

REGISTRATION OF TWO ADDITIONAL RICE STOCKHOLDERS ........... 12

JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE SAFEGUARDED .......................... 13

EXCO APPROVES LANTAU TAXI FARE INCREASE..................... 14

APPOINTMENT OF KCRC BOARD MEMBERS........................... 15

PRACTICAL EDUCATION CENTRE HELPS SCHOOLS TO BROADEN CURRICULA 15

NEW I.D. CARDS FOR MEN BORN IN 1961-62 ..................... 17

CYC MEMBERS CELEBRATE 10TH ANNIVERSARY ..................... 18

NEW DEPARTMENT STORE "PITCHES IN" KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN ................................................... 19

FAMILY FUN DAY IN NORTH DISTRICT ........................... 20

YAU MA TEI TO PROMOTE CLEANLINESS .......................... 21

SPORTIVE WEEKEND FOR ISLANDERS ............................. 21

GO-KART RACE TO CONCLUDE SPORTS FESTIVAL ................... 22

SHA TIN ATHLETIC r'r SUNDAY................................. 23

CHARITY WALK TO PROMOTE INTEGRATION ........................ 24

DEATH SENTENCE COMMUTED ...................................... 2 4

EXHIBITION ON REHABILITATIVE SERVICES ...................... 25

KOWLOON AREA TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM BEING EXPANDED.......... 25

PERMANENT CLOSURE OF STREET SECTION PROPOSED................ 26

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE DI WAN CHAI ......................... 26

BAN ON HEAVY VEHICLES IN WAN CHAI .......................... 27

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

1 -

GOVERNOR EMPHASISES IMPORTANCE OF PRIVATE AID EFFORTS t » » » ♦ »

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, TODAY (FRIDAY) STRESSED THE IMPORTANCE OF PRIVATE EFFORT IN HELPING HANDICAPPED CHILDREN IN HONG KONG.

HE WAS SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER OFFICIATING AT THE START OF A WALK IN SAI KUNG TO RAISE FUNDS FOR CHILDREN.

THERE WAS ALWAYS SOMETHING MORE THAT COULD BE DONE, SIR DAVID SAID.

"GOVERNMENT IS TRYING TO DO MORE. BUT IN A SOCIETY LIKE HONG KONG, WHAT THE PUBLIC DOES, WHAT PRIVATE EFFORT DOES IS AT LEAST AS IMPORTANT AS WHAT THE GOVERNMENT CAN DO," HE NOTED.

THE GOVERNOR SAID HE WAS PLEASED TO BE AT THE START OF THE WALK WHICH WAS BOTH EXCITING FOR THOSE PEOPLE TAKING PART AND A GREAT EFFORT IN FUND-RAISING.

HE SAID, "HOW GOOD IT IS THAT WE HAVE THIS FUND-RAISING CAMPAIGN FOR SOME OF THE PEOPLE IN OUR SOCIETY WHO ARE LESS WELL OFF IN VARIOUS WAYS, WHETHER IT IS PHYSICALLY OR ANY OTHER WAY.

"AND HOW VERY GOOD IT IS TO SEE SOME OF THE PEOPLE, WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THIS FUND-RAISING, TAKING PART IN THE BEGINNING OF THE WALK TODAY."

THE TRAILWALKER *87 IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY OXFAM, QUEEN’S GURKHA SIGNALS AND SPONSORED BY HONGKONG BANK. MORE THAN 700 PEOPLE TOOK PART IN THE WALK AND RAISED $800,000 TO HELP CHILDREN IN HONG KONG, INDIA AND NEPAL.

-----0------

STOCK MARKET WILL REMAIN IMPORTANT ELEMENT

» » * * t

THE STOCK MARKET WILL CONTINUE TO BE ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENTS IN THE FINANCIAL STRUCTURE OF HONG KONG, AND ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT TASKS OF THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE WILL BE TO CONSIDER HOW BEST THIS MARKET CAN ASSURE ITS INTERNATIONAL REPUTATION AND STANDING, THE ACTING FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR DAVID NENDICK, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).

IN A SPEECH ENTITLED "A SURVEY OF FINANCIAL MARKETS IN HONG KONG", GIVEN TO THE HONG KONG SOCIETY OF ACCOUNTANTS, MR NENDICK COMMENTED ON RECENT PROBLEMS IN THE STOCK AND FUTURES MARKETS, AND SAID IT WAS TRUE, THOUGH SADLY, THAT IMPROVEMENTS TO FINANCIAL MARKETS AND REGULATION ONLY CAME ABOUT AFTER MAJOR SHOCKS OR SETBACKS.

/he said.........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1?87

HE SAID THIS WAS PARTLY BECAUSE HINDSIGHT WAS MUCH NORE OF A SCIENCE THAN FORESIGHT, AND PARTLY BECAUSE THERE WAS RESISTANCE TO CHANGE, WHICH WAS A COMMON ATTITUDE AND BY NO MEANS THE MONOPOLY OP CIVIL SERVANTS.

"BE THIS AS IT MAY, UNDOUBTEDLY WE NOW HAVE A WILLINGNESS, INDEED A DETERMINATION, IN OUR COMMUNITY TO ENSURE THAT NECESSARY CHANGES ARE MADE AND I CAN ASSURE YOU THAT THESE WILL TAKE PLACE," HE SAID.

RECENT EVENTS HAD GIVEN THOSE INVOLVED IN INTERNATIONAL MARKETS AND IN THEIR SUPERVISION A USEFUL OPPORTUNITY TO TAKE STOCK, HE SAID.

"CHANGE HAS BEEN DRIVEN BY MARKET FORCES BUT IT IS ARGUABLE WHETHER MARKET STRUCTURES, REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS, AND MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL, RISK PERCEPTION HAVE BEEN ABLE TO KEEP PACE WITH THESE DEVELOPMENTS."

MR NENDICK POINTED OUT THAT, IN HONG KONG, PROPOSALS IN THE PIPELINE, SUCH AS A SECOND MARKET IN SECURITIES OR THE INTRODUCTION OF A HONG KONG DOLLAR INTEREST RATE FUTURES CONTRACT, WOULD NOW HAVE TO BE POSTPONED UNTIL THE MARKETS WERE ROBUST ENOUGH TO ABSORB THEM.

HE SAID THIS MIGHT MEAN WAITING UNTIL AFTER THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE HAD MADE ITS REPORT AND ITS RECOMMENDATIONS HAD BEEN IMPLEMENTED.

"I AM CONFIDENT THAT THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE WILL DO A THOROUGH AND WORTHWHILE JOB IN IDENTIFYING WHAT CHANGES ARE NECESSARY IN ORDER THAT HONG KONG CAN MAINTAIN, AND INDEED DEVELOP, ITS ROLE AS A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE."

REFERRING TO THE MARKET CRASH, MR NENDICK SAID IT WOULD HAVE CHANGED INVESTORS’ PERCEPTION THE WORLD OVER OF THE RISKS INVOLVED IN EQUITY INVESTMENT, AT LEAST FOR THE TIME BEING.

HE SAID, "STOCKS AND SHARES SHOULD NEVER BE SEEN AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO KEEPING READY CASH IN THE BANK.

"THOSE WHO INVEST WISELY FOR A PERIOD OF YEARS IN SOUND COMPANIES WITH GOOD MANAGEMENT WILL SHARE IN THE PROSPERITY OF THE COMPANIES CONCERNED, BUT NO ONE CAN BE ASSURED OF CERTAIN PROFIT IF THEY USE THE STOCK MARKET FOR SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT."

MR NENDICK ALSO SAID THE CRASH HAD SHOWN THAT EVENTS OUTSIDE HONG KONG COULD HAVE A PROFOUND EFFECT ON THE LOCAL MARKETS, WHICH MEANT THAT HONG KONG COULD ONLY EXPECT A FULL MEASURE OF CONFIDENCE TO RETURN WHEN THAT CONFIDENCE RETURNED IN OTHER CENTRES.

/referring to .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

REFERRING TO COMPARISON MADE BETWEEN THE FINANCIAL FUTURES MARKET AND A CASINO, AND THE COMPARISON OF PARTICIPANTS TO GAMBLERS, MR NENDICK SAID THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT NOT TO LOSE SIGHT OF THE FACT THAT THERE WOULD ALWAYS BE SPECULATORS OR RISK-TAKERS IN ANY FUTURES MARKET OR IN ANY DEVELOPED FINANCIAL MARKET ACROSS THE WORLD.

"HONG KONO FUTURES MARKET IS NOT UNIQUE IN THIS. WITHOUT RISK-TAKERS, MANY SUCH MARKETS WOULD NOT HAVE SUFFICIENT LIQUIDITY TO BE VIABLE.

"THE IMPORTANT POINT IS TO ENSURE THAT ALL PARTICIPANTS FULLY RECOGNISE THE RISKS THEY ARE ASSUMING, AND CAN AFFORD TO BEAR THEM," HE SAID.

EARLIER, MR NENDICK PROVIDED A GENERAL SURVEY OF THE FINANCIAL MARKETS IN HONG KONG, WHICH, HE SAID, COULD CONVENIENTLY BE CLASSIFIED INTO THE STOCK MARKET, THE CAPITAL MARKET, THE INTER-BANK MARKET, THE FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKET, THE GOLD MARKET, AND THE STOCK INDEX FUTURES MARKET.

ON THE STOCK MARKET, HE SAID THAT THE UNIFICATION OF THE FOUR STOCK EXCHANGES WAS A SIGNIFICANT MAJOR STEP IN HONG KONG’S DEVELOPMENT AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE.

ALTHOUGH INSTITUTIONAL INVESTORS AND PROFESSIONAL FUND MANAGERS WERE BECOMING INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT PLAYERS IN THAT MARKET, THE SMALL INVESTOR CONTINUED TO HAVE A VERY SIGNIFICANT PRESENCE THERE, HE SAID.

THE CAPITAL MARKET, WHICH DEALT IN NEGOTIABLE DEBT INSTRUMENTS, SUFFERED A MAJOR SETBACK EARLIER THIS YEAR WHEN INTEREST RATES BEGAN TO RISE AND THE BANK’S MARGIN CAME UNDER PRESSURE.

MR NENDICK SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS CURRENTLY EXAMINING PROPOSALS TO ATTRACT A WIDER INVESTOR INTEREST IN SUCH INSTRUMENTS.

THE INTER-BANK MARKET WAS A WELL ESTABLISHED AND ACTIVE MARKET USED BY BOTH LOCAL AND OVERSEAS INSTITUTIONS FOR THE BORROWING OF HONG KONG DOLLARS AND FOREIGN CURRENCIES.

AND FROM TIME TO TIME THE EXCHANGE FUND INTERVENED IN THE HONG KONG DOLLAR INTER-BANK MARKET TO ENSURE THAT INTEREST RATES WERE CONSISTENT WITH THE MAINTENANCE OF THE LINK BETWEEN THE U.S. DOLLAR AND HK DOLLAR, HE SAID.

AS FOR THE FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKET, WHICH WAS OF CRUCIAL IMPORTANCE TO THE BANKING SECTOR, MR NENDICK SAID A NUMBER OF FACTORS HAD CONTRIBUTED TO ITS DEVELOPMENT IN HONG KONG.

/THEY WERE........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

THEY WERE THE ABSENCE OF ANY EXCHANGE CONTROLS, HONG KONG’S TIME ZONE LOCATION, THE AVAILABILITY OF ADVANCED TELECOMMUNICATIONS, A LARGE EXTERNAL TRADE VOLUME RESULTING IN CONSIDERABLE DEMAND AND SUPPLY OF FOREIGN CURRENCIES, AND THE PRESENCE OF A VERY LARGE NUMBER OF INTERNATIONAL BANKS EXPERIENCED IN FOREIGN EXCHANGE OPERATIONS.

TURNING TO THE GOLD MARKET, MR NENDICK SAID THAT IN TERMS OF TRADING VOLUME, IT WAS ONE OF THE LARGEST IN THE WORLD.

. AND IN THE FUTURES MARKETS, THE HANG SENG INDEX WAS BY FAR THE MOST DOMINANT; SOYA BEAN AND SUGAR WERE REASONABLY ACTIVE BUT HAD LITTLE ECONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE FOR HONG KONG.

-----0------

SEPTEMBER ORDERS-ON-HAND,EMPLOYMENT, PAYROLL FIGURES RELEASED

*****

IN SEPTEMBER 1987, THE AVERAGE VOLUME OF ORDERS-ON-HAND REPORTED BY THE 200 LARGEST FIRMS IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR REMAINED AT ABOUT THE SAME LEVEL AS IN AUGUST 1987 BUT INCREASED SLIGHTLY OVER SEPTEMBER 1986, ACCORDING TO THE RESULTS OF A SURVEY RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.

THE VOLUME OF ORDERS-ON-HAND, MEASURED IN TERMS OF NUMBER OF MONTHS, REFERS TO THE POSITION AS AT THE END OF THE REFERENCE MONTH.

COMPARING SEPTEMBER 1987 WITH THE SAME MONTH IN 1986, THE VOLUME OF ORDERS INCREASED IN THE WEARING APPAREL, PLASTIC PRODUCTS, AND ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES, WHILE THAT IN THE TEXTILES AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES SHOWED LITTLE CHANGE.

WHEN COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1987, THE ORDERS POSITION IN SEPTEMBER 1987 DROPPED IN THE WEARING APPAREL, TEXTILES AND PLASTIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES. ON THE OTHER HAND, AN IMPROVED ORDERS POSITION WAS RECORDED IN THE FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRY.

EMPLOYMENT IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR SHOWED SOME DECREASES IN SEPTEMBER 1987 WHEN COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1987 AND SEPTEMBER 1986.

COMPARING SEPTEMBER 1987 WITH AUGUST 1987, EMPLOYMENT IN THE WEARING APPAREL, PLASTIC PRODUCTS, AND ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES DROPPED SIGNIFICANTLY, MAINLY BECAUSE SUMMER WORKERS HAD LEFT THE INDUSTRIES.

/COMPARED WITH........

FRIDAY, HOVEMBEH 20, 196?

COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1986, EMPLOYMENT DECREASED SIGNIFICANTLY IN THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS AND WEARING APPAREL INDUSTRIES, AND SLIGHTLY IN THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRY. ON THE OTHER HAND, EMPLOYMENT IN THE FOOD AND DRINKS, TEXTILES AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS INUDSTRIES INCREASED.

IN SEPTEMBER 1987, PAYROLL AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR BOTH DECREASED COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1987 BUT INCREASED OVER SEPTEMBER 1986.

COMPARING SEPTEMBER 1987 WITH AUGUST 1987, PAYROLL IN ALL INDUSTRIES SURVEYED EXCEPT THE FOOD AND DRINKS AND FABRICATED METAL Products industries decreased, partly because of the decrease in EMPLOYMENT. ON THE OTHER HAND, PER CAPITA EARNINGS IN ALL INDUSTRIES SURVEYED OTHER THAN THE WEARING APPAREL AND TEXTILES INDUSTRIES INCREASED.

■ * . > . • I , t

COMPARING THE PAYROLL IN SEPTEMBER 1987 WITH THAT IN SEPTEMBER 1986, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN ALL INDUSTRIES SURVEYED EXCEPT THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRY. MOST INDUSTRIES SURVEYED RECORDED SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES IN PER CAPITA EARNINGS OVER SEPTEMBER 1986.

IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR, EMPLOYMENT IN SEPTEMBER 1987 WAS ABOUT THE SAME AS IN AUGUST 1987 BUT PAYROLL AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS INCREASED. WHEN COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1986, EMPLOYMENT, PAYROLL AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS ALL INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY.

IN THE SERVICES SECTORS, OVERALL EMPLOYMENT IN SEPTEMBER 1987 REMAINED AT ABOUT THE SAME LEVEL AS IN AUGUST 1987 BUT PAYROLL AND PER CAITA EARNINGS INCREASED. COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1986, EMPLOYMENT RECORDED A MODERATE INCREASE, WHILE PAYROLL AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS SHOWED SIGNIFICANT INCREASES.

AMONG THE VARIOUS SERVICES SECTORS, PAYROLL AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY IN PUBLIC UTILITY COMPANIES, AND SLIGHTLY IN HOTELS, BUT DECREASED IN BANKS WHEN COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1987. COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1986, SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES IN PAYROLL AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS WERE RECORDED IN BANKS AND HOTELS AND, TO A LESSER EXTENT, IN PUBLIC UTILITY COMPANIES. A MODERATE INCREASE IN EMPLOYMENT WAS ALSO RECORDED IN BANKS.

THE PERCENTAGE CHANGES IN ORDERS-ON-HAND, EMPLOYMENT AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS ARE SHOWN IN TABLES 1 AND 2 BELOW.

THE SURVEY COVERED A PANEL OF THE 200 LARGEST MANUFACTURING COMPANIES AND THE 50 LARGEST COMPANIES IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND SELECTED SERVICES SECTORS, CHOSEN BY REFERENCE TO THEIR EMPLOYMENT SIZES IN SEPTEMBER 1986.

/as the ...........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 19®7

AS THE SAMPLE WAS NOT DRAWN ON A RANDOM BASIS, THE DEPARTMENT CAUTIONED THAT THE MAGNITUDE OF CHANGE INDICATED BY THE SURVEY MIGHT NOT REFLECT THE EXPERIENCE OF THE ECONOMY AS A WHOLE. NEVERTHELESS, THESE RESULTS ARE EXPECTED TO PROVIDE A USEFUL INDICATION OF THE DIRECTION OF CHANGE FOR A QUICK ASSESSMENT OF DEVELOPMENTS IN THE ECONOMY IN THE SHORT TERM.

THE SURVEY REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER 1987 IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, AND AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES COUNTER, 19/F., WANCHAI TOWER 1, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, AT^l.50 PER COPY.

ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY BE MADE TO THE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON 5-8234820.

TABLE 1: ORDERS-ON-HAND IN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES

INDUSTRY ORDERS-ON-HAND

FOR SEP. 1987 INCREASE OVER

AUG. 87 SEP. 86

(MONTHS) <x> (X)

ALL INDUSTRIES 4.40 t 2

WEARING APPAREL 4.91 -1 4

TEXTILES 2.86 -2 t

PLASTIC PRODUCTS 3.23 -2 1

FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS 4.13 3 ♦

ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS 5.05 t 3

OTHERS 4.24 -2

i' 1 i /TABLE 2i .

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

TABLE 2: EMPLOYMENT AND EARNINGS

INDUSTRY/ SERVICES PERSONS ENGAGED AT THE END OF SEP. 1987 PER CAPITA EARNINGS

INCREASE AUG. 87 OVER SEP. 86 IN SEP. 87 INCREASE /OVER AUG. 87 SEP. 86

MANUFACTURING (%) -2 (%) -3 (HK$) 3,741 (%) -1 (%) 12

FOOD AND DRINKS t 2 4,473 3 2

WEARING APPAREL -2 -7 3,212 -4 10

TEXTILES t 3 3,866 -7 12

PLASTIC PRODUCTS -8 -15 3,644 4 11

FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS » 1 3,644 2 11

ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS -3 -1 3,491 1 16

OTHERS -1 -3 4,838 1 10

# CONSTRUCTION 7 5,494 4 17

SERVICES ♦ 2 6,620 2 10

BANKS ♦ 3 5,867 -4 10

HOTELS 4,027 1 18

PUBLIC UTILITIES ♦ -1 7,121 13 8

OTHERS * 6 7,389 -7 12

* CHANGES WITHIN H /- 0.5%

# PERSONS ENGAGED COVER COMPANY EMPLOYEES ONLY; SITE WORKERS EMPLOYED BY LABOUR-ONLY SUB-CONTRACTORS ARE NOT INCLUDED.

NOTE: UNLIKE "ORDERS-ON-HAND" AND "PER CAPITA EARNINGS" WHICH ARE AVERAGE FIGURES, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONS ENGAGED BY THE FIRMS SURVEYED IS NOT MEANINGFUL INFORMATION ON ITS OWN (BECAUSE THIS IS A PANEL SURVEY) AND IS THEREFORE NOT SHOWN.

-----0------

/8 •

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

- 8 -

TOWN PLANNING (AMENDMENT) BILL GAZETTED *****

THE TOWN PLANNING (AMENDMENT) BILL 1987, WHICH WILL PUT BEYOND DOUBT THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD’S AUTHORITY TO CONTROL DEVELOPMENT WITHIN AREAS ZONED FOR COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT, WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY) .

THE BILL WILL ALSO VALIDATE COMPREHENSIVE REDEVELOPMENT AREAS (CRA) ZONINGS ON EXISTING PLANS AS WELL AS DECISIONS MADE BY THE BOARD IN RELATION TO PLANNING APPLICATIONS. IT IS EXPECTED TO BE PUT BEFORE THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON DECEMBER 2.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE LANDS AND WORKS BRANCH SAID: "THE BILL IS REQUIRED AS THE EXISTING TOWN PLANNING ORDINANCE, ENACTED IN 1939, IS NO LONGER ADEQUATE TO SUPPORT THE PRESENT PLANNING MACHINERY WHICH HAS BECOME MORE SOPHISTICATED IN RESPONSE TO THE NEEDS OF OUR MODERN CITY. "

HE ADDED THAT THE CRA ZONING SYSTEM HAD WORKED WELL SINCE ITS INTRODUCTION IN 1976.

"THE PLANNING CONTROL ACHIEVED BY THE CRA ZONING IS EFFECTIVE IN THAT ALL DEVELOPMENT WITHIN SUCH AREAS IS SUBJECT TO THE APPROVAL OF THE BOARD, AND NO DEVELOPMENT OF SUCH AREAS IS PERMITTED UNLESS A COMPREHENSIVE SCHEME FOR THE WHOLE AREA IS PRESENTED.

"SUCH CONTROL IS NECESSARY TO ENSURE THE OVERALL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT OF WHAT ARE TN MANY CASES DILAPIDATED, RUN-DOWN AREAS A^T TO REDRESS DEFICIENCIES IN THE PROVISION OF COMMUNITY FACILFTniS AN OPEN SPACE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

--------o - - - -

THREE OUTLINE ZONING PLANS AMENDED *****

AMENDMENTS TO THREE DRAFT OUTLINE ZONING PLANS FOR ABERDEEN AND AP LEI CHAU; CHA KWO LING, YAU TONG AND LEI YUE MUN; AND SHA TIN WERE ANNOUNCED BY THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD TODAY (FRIDAY).

THE AMENDMENT TO THE DRAFT ABERDEEN AND AP LEI CHAU OUTLINE ZONING PLAN IS TO INCORPORATE THE PROPOSED COMPREHENSIVE REDEVELOPMENT OF THE SHELL OIL DEPOT AND HONG KONG ELECTRIC POWER STATION SITES ON AP LEI CHAU AFTER THEIR RELOCATION.

IT IS PROPOSED TO REDEVELOP THE SITE FOR RESIDENTIAL USE AND TO PROVIDE HOUSING FOR ABOUT 32,400 PEOPLE WITH A WIDE RANGE OF SUPPORTING COMMERCIAL, COMMUNITY AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES.

/THE ELECTBIC .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 198?

THE ELECTRIC COMPANY PROPOSES TO RETAIN SOME OF ITS INSTALLATIONS, THE OPERATIONAL HEADQUARTERS AND THE CAR PARK ON THE SITE WHILE THE OIL COMPANY PLANS TO MAINTAIN A TRANSIT DEPOT FOR LIQUIFIED PETROLEUM GAS AND OIL PRODUCT IN THE SOUTHERN PORTION OF THE SITE.

THE AMENDMENTS TO THE OUTLINE ZONING PLAN FOR CHA KWO LING, YAU TONG AND LEI YUE MUN ARE AIMED TO COINCIDE WITH DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES BROUGHT BY THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING AND THE POSSIBLE RELOCATION OF THE SHELL OIL DEPOT IN CHA KWO LING.

ONE OF THE MAJOR AMENDMENTS IS TO INCLUDE THE AREA WEST OF CHA KWO LING ROAD AND EAST OF KING YIP STREET INTO THE PLAN.

ANOTHER MAJOR AMENDMENT IS TO REZONE THREE SITES NORTHEAST OF THE EXISTING SHELL DEPOT SITE AT CHA KWO LING ROAD OR "RESIDENTIAL (GROUP A)" DEVELOPMENT TO HOUSE ABOUT 27,000 PEOPLE.

THE THIRD MAJOR AMENDMENT IS TO REZONE THE LAM TIN MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY STATION FROM "UNDETERMINED" TO "COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL" USE.

THE PROPOSED COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FOR ABOUT 14,000 PEOPLE ABOVE THE MTR STATION WILL EXTEND BEYOND THE BOUNDARY OF THE PLANNING SCHEME TO INCLUDE A SITE ON THE OTHER SIDE OF LEI YUE MUN ROAD.

AMONG OTHER AMENDMENTS ARE THOSE INVOLVING THE USE OF THE REMAINING AREAS FOR "GOVERNMENT/INSTITUTION/COMMUNITY", "OPEN SPACE" AND "INDUSTRIAL" PURPOSES.

FACILITIES TO BE PROVIDED INCLUDE A DISTRICT HOSPITAL, A SPORTS COMPLEX, AN INDOOR RECREATION CENTRE, OPEN SPACE AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS WHICH ARE PLANNED TO REDRESS THE DEFICIENCIES IN THE AREA.

THE AMENDMENTS TO THE DRAFT SHA TIN OUTLINE ZONING PLAN MAINLY INCLUDE THE INCORPORATION OF THE PROPOSED TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL ALIGNMENT AND ITS INTERCHANGE AT SIU LEK YUEN TOGETHER WITH AREAS RESERVED FOR OPEN SPACE AND VILLAGE TYPE DEVELOPMENT TO THE EAST AND WEST OF THE ALIGNMENT RESPECTIVELY.

THE PROPOSED TUNNEL WILL PROVIDE AN IMPORTANT ROAD LINK BETWEEN SHA TIN AND EAST KOWLOON UPON COMPLETION IN 1992.

MINOR ADJUSTMENT TO THE ROUTE 5 ALIGNMENT HAS ALSO BEEN MADE FOR THE SECTION OF THE ROAD TO THE NORTH OF HEUNG FAN LIU.

THE TRUNK ROAD, WHICH IS NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION, WILL GIVE A DIRECT ACCESS FROM SHA TIN TO TSUEN WAN WHEN COMPLETED IN 1990.

TO THE SOUTH OF ROUTE 5, SIGNIFICANT AREAS HAVE BEEN REZONED TO "GREEN BELT” DUE TO GEOTECHNICAL LIMITATIONS FOR BUILDING DEVELOPMENT.

/THERE ARE .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

- 10 -

THERE ARE ALSO A NUMBER OF LAND USE ZONING AMENDMENTS TO FACILITATE THE FOLLOWING MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS IN THE NEW TOWN:

* A FUNERAL PARLOUR, A PUBLIC MORTUARY AND COLUMBARIUM EXTENSION AT LOWER SHING MUN ROAD NEAR THE EXISTING FU SHAN CREMATORIUM AND COLUMBARIUM;

* AN ELECTRICITY SUBSTATION TO THE NORTH OF HEUNG FAN LIU

VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT AREA;

» A 700-BED CONVALESCENT/INFIRMARY HOSPITAL AT MA ON SHAN

ROAD NEAR A KUNG KOK; AND

♦ A SITE TO THE NORTH-EAST OF TSANG TAI UK VILLAGE FOR THE

FUTURE EXPANSION OF THE VILLAGE.

THE AMENDMENTS TO THE THREE PLANS CAN BE INSPECTED AT THE LOCAL DISTRICT OFFICES; PUBLIC ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, WEST WING ENTRANCE, CENTRAL; AND THE TOWN PLANNING OFFICE, BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENTS, FOURTH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, CENTRAL.

ANY PERSON AFFECTED BY THE AMENDMENTS SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY OF TOWN PLANNING BOARD BY DECEMBER 11.

-----0------

NEW VALUATION LISTS BEING PREPARED

♦ * ♦ ♦

THE COMMISSIONER OF RATING AND VALUATION HAS BEEN DIRECTED BY THE GOVERNOR TO PREPARE NEW VALUATION LISTS FOR ALL SPECIFIED RATING AREAS IN HONG KONG, AND OCTOBER 1, 1986, HAS BEEN DESIGNATED AS THE REFERENCE DATE FOR VALUATION PURPOSES.

THIS MEANS THAT ALL PROPERTIES INCLUDED IN THE NEW VALUATION LISTS WILL BE VALUED BY REFERENCE TO RENTAL VALUES AT OCTOBER 1, 1986.

A NOTICE ON THE GOVERNOR’S DIRECTION WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).

IN ANTICIPATION OF THIS DIRECTION, STAFF OF THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT HAVE BEEN PREPARING VALUATIONS FOR ALL RATEABLE TENEMENTS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY, INCLUDING THOSE PARTS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES WHICH HAVE RECENTLY BEEN SPECIFIED AS RATING AREAS.

VALUATION WORK IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED BY THE END OF THE YEAR.

NOTICES SHOWING THE NEW RATEABLE VALUES WILL BE ISSUED TO RATEPAYERS AT THE END OF FEBRUARY 1988.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

TERRITORY’S ADVANTAGES TO U.S.

» * ♦ ♦

FIRMS OUTLINED IN SEMINAR »

AMERICAN COMPANIES HAVE LONG RECOGNISED THE ADVANTAGES OF HONG KONG AND, ALTOGETHER, ABOUT 900 U.S. FIRMS HAVE SOME KIND OF PRESENCE IN THE TERRITORY.

IN ADDITION, MANY U.S. COMPANIES HAVE HAD A BASE IN HONG KONG FOR YEARS, AND THE NUMBER IS GROWING FAST.

THESE POINTS WERE EMPHASISED AT A SEMINAR IN WASHINGTON ON THURSDAY (U.S. TIME) BY THE MINISTER FOR HONG KONG COMMERCIAL AFFAIRS IN THE U.S. CAPITAL, MR PETER Y.F. LO.

’’THE UNITED STATES HAS MORE INVESTMENT IN OUR MANUFACTURING SECTOR THAN ANY OTHER COUNTRY, ACCOUNTING FOR OVER ONE THIRD OF ALL OVERSEAS INDUSTRIAL INVESTMENTS,” MR LO TOLD THE SEMINAR ON "HONG KONG’S ROLE IN U.S./CHINA TRADE". THE TWO-DAY SEMINAR WAS ORGANISED BY THE CHINA TRADE CAUCUS OF THE U.S. SENATE.

THE MINISTER OUTLINED THE ADVANTAGES THAT HONG KONG OFFERED AS A "GATEWAY TO CHINA" AND ALSO POINTED TO ITS VALUE AS A BASE FOR DOING BUSINESS WITH THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION AS A WHOLE.

HE MENTIONED THE EXCELLENT TRANSPORT AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS LINKS WITH THE COUNTRIES OF THE REGION.

"WE ARE IN MANY WAYS A SERVICES CENTRE, IN PARTICULAR A FINANCIAL CENTRE, FOR THE REGION.

"WE OFFER A STABLE, SECURE AND COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH TO WORK, AND A RELATIVELY WELL-EDUCATED LABOUR FORCE WITH MANY PEOPLE FLUENT IN ENGLISH,” HE SAID.

IN DESCRIBING THE ECONOMIC AND TRADE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND HONG KONG, MR LO POINTED OUT THAT THE U.S. WAS THE TERRITORY’S SECOND LARGEST TRADING PARTNER AFTER CHINA. IT WAS HONG KONG’S LARGEST MARKET, ACCOUNTING FOR ABOUT 40 PER CENT OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS ANNUALLY.

MR LO DETAILED HOW TWO-WAY TRADE BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA HAD GROWN DRAMATICALLY OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS, AND HOW THE ENTREPOT ROLE HAD RE-EMERGED AS AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMY.

HE LISTED THE ADVANTAGES THAT THE TERRITORY OFFERED TO FOREIGN BUSINESSMEN SEEKING TO DO BUSINESS WITH CHINA, AND REFERRED TO THE EXTENSIVE, AND GROWING, TRANSPORT LINKS -- BY LAND, SEA AND AIR.

"AS WELL AS THESE IMPORTANT PHYSICAL LINKS, HONG KONG CAN OFFER THE PERSONAL CONNECTIONS THAT ARE SO IMPORTANT TO DOING BUSINESS ANYWHERE.

/•’THERE ARE.........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

12 -

"THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF TRADING COMPANIES IN HONG KONG WHICH HANDLE BUSINESS WITH CHINA. THESE INCLUDE FOREIGN COMPANIES FROM THE UNITED STATES, JAPAN AND EUROPE.

"HONG KONG BUSINESSMEN HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE, EXPERTISE AND LANGUAGE SKILLS THAT CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE TO THE WESTERN BUSINESSMAN GRAPPLING WITH THE PROBLEM OF PENETRATING THE DISTANT AND UNFAMILIAR CHINA MARKET," HE SAID.

MR LO ALSO NOTED THAT APART FROM THE CLOSE TRADING RELATIONSHIP, HONG KONG WAS THE LARGEST EXTERNAL INVESTOR IN CHINA, ACCOUNTING FOR OVER 60 PER CENT OF EXTERNAL INVESTMENT THERE, ACCORDING TO CHINESE FIGURES. IN ITS TURN, CHINA WAS A MAJOR INVESTOR IN HONG KONG.

---------o-----------

REGISTRATION OF TWO ADDITIONAL RICE STOCKHOLDERS

*****

THE TRADE DEPARTMENT

REGISTRATION OF TWO ADDITIONAL

IS INVITING APPLICATIONS RICE STOCKHOLDERS.

FOR THE

ANNOUNCING THIS TODAY (FRIDAY), THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF TRADE, MR JOSEPH WONG, SAID THAT THE DEPARTMENT INTENDED TO REGISTER TWO ADDITIONAL RICE STOCKHOLDERS AND ALLOCATE EACH WITH NINE UNITS.

HITHERTO, RICE IN HONG KONG IS SUBJECT TO CONTROL UNDER A RICE CONTROL SCHEME. UNDER THE SCHEME, THE QUANTITY OF RICE TO BE IMPORTED INTO HONG KONG PER QUARTER FOR LOCAL CONSUMPTION IS SUBJECT TO A QUOTA WHICH IS DIVIDED INTO 1,000 UNITS, EACH UNIT REPRESENTING 90 TONNES OF RICE.

A TOTAL OF 982 UNITS HAVE ALREADY BEEN ALLOCATED TO 44 RICE STOCKHOLDERS. THE REMAINING 18 UNITS - LARGELY THE RESIDUAL QUOTA UNITS OF A STOCKHOLDER WHICH CEASED BUSINESS IN LATE 1986 - ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR ALLOCATION.

"WHILE THE NUMBER OF ADDITIONAL STOCKHOLDERS TO BE REGISTERED ON THIS OCCASION IS SMALL, WE BELIEVE THAT ADDITION OF NEWCOMERS WITH RELEVANT EXPERIENCE AND REASONABLE FINANCIAL BACKING IS IN LINE WITH OUR PRINCIPLES OF OPERATING THE RICE CONTROL SCHEME, AND SHOULD BE BENEFICIAL TO CONSUMERS IN THE LONG RUN," MR WONG SAID.

HE SAID THE DECISION TO REGISTER ADDITIONAL RICE STOCKHOLDERS AND THE CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS WAS MADE ON THE ADVICE OF THE RICE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

/THOSE WHO

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 198?

- 13 -

THOSE WHO WISH TO APPLY FOR REGISTRATION MAY OBTAIN THE APPLICATION FORM FROM THE TRADE DEPARTMENT, RESERVED COMMODITIES SECTION, 13/F, OCEAN CENTRE, TSIM SHA TSUI, KOWLOON. NO APPLICATION WILL BE CONSIDERED UNLESS EACH OF THE APPLICATION CRITERIA, AS BRIEFLY LISTED BELOW, IS SATISFIED -

(A) THE APPLICANT IS REGISTERED WITH THE BUSINESS REGISTRATION OFFICE.

(B) IT MUST HAVE BEEN ACTIVELY ENGAGED IN THE RICE TRADE FOR AT LEAST THREE YEARS.

(D) IT MUST HAVE AN ANNUAL TURNOVER OF BUSINESS OF NOT LESS THAN $8 MILLION, OF WHICH NOT LESS THAN $4 MILLION MUST BE RELATED TO TRADE IN RICE.

(E) IT MUST HAVE BANK CREDITS OF NOT LESS THAN #3 MILLION FOR TRADING IN RICE.

(F) IT HAS MADE CONTACT WITH AN OVERSEAS SUPPLIER CAPABLE OF SUPPLYING RICE ON A CONTINUOUS BASIS.

(G) NOT LESS THAN 51 PER CENT OF THE CAPITAL/SHARES OF THE FIRM MUST BE OWNED BY PERSONS ORDINARILY RESIDENT IN HONG KONG.

(H) A MAJORITY OF PARTNERS OR DIRECTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS OF THE FIRM MUST BE ORDINARILY RESIDENT IN HONG KONO.

APPLICATIONS MUST BE LODGED WITH THE TRADE DEPARTMENT BY JANUARY 15 NEXT YEAR.

-----o-----

JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE SAFEGUARDED « * * t

THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION ON HONG KONG PROVIDES FOR JUDICIAL POWER TO CONTINUE TO BE EXERCISED INDEPENDENTLY AND FREE FROM ANY INTERFERENCE, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR MICHAEL THOMAS, SAID IN THE UNITED STATES ON FRIDAY (U.S. TIME).

MANY OF THE CONVENTIONAL SAFEGUARDS FOR JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE WERE ALSO SPECIFICALLY MENTIONED IN THE JOINT DECLARATION, MR THOMAS ADDED.

/he was ......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 198?

- 14 -

HE WAS SPEAKING TO THE BOSTON BAR ASSOCIATION ON THE THIRD DAY OF HIS OFFICIAL VISIT TO NEW YORK, BOSTON, LONDON AND PARIS.

THE COURTS WOULD DECIDE CASES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION AND MIGHT REFER TO PRECEDENTS IN OTHER COMMON LAW JURISDICTIONS, MR THOMAS SAID.

THE BOSTON BAR ASSOCIATION IS ONE OF THE OLDEST BAR ASSOCIATIONS IN THE U.S. IT WAS FOUNDED OVER 200 YEARS AGO, AND NOW HAS OVER 6,000 MEMBERS.

MR THOMAS WAS DUE TO FLY TO LONDON LATER IN THE DAY.

-----0-----

EXCO APPROVES LANTAU TAXI FARE INCREASE

» » » » »

A FARE INCREASE OF 25 PER CENT FOR LANTAU TAXIS HAS BEEN APPROVED BY THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL. THE NEW FARE SCALE WILL COME INTO EFFECT ON DECEMBER 14.

UNDER THE NEW FARE SCALE, A TAXI TRIP IN LANTAU WILL COST $5 INSTEAD OF $4 FOR THE FIRST TWO KILOMETRES, AND 50 CENTS FOR EVERY SUBSEQUENT 0.2 KILOMETRES INSTEAD OF 80 CENTS FOR EVERY SUBSEQUENT 0.4 KILOMETRES.

CHARGES FOR WAITING TIME WILL GO UP TO 50 CENTS FOR EVERY MINUTE FROM 80 CENTS FOR EVERY TWO MINUTES.

SURCHARGES ON BAGGAGE, ANIMAL OR BIRD WILL ALSO BE INCREASED FROM $1 TO $2 FOR EACH ARTICLE, AND A SURCHARGE OF $1 ON RADIO-CALL SERVICE WILL BE INTRODUCED.

THE LAST INCREASE IN NEW TERRITORIES TAXI FARES WAS INTRODUCED ON MARCH 1 LAST YEAR.

A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT THE FARE AND SURCHARGE INCREASES WERE APPROVED FOLLOWING A CAREFUL STUDY OF THE OVERALL OPERATING ECONOMICS OF THE LANTAU TAXI TRADE.

’’THE FARE AND SURCHARGE INCREASES APPROVED ARE EXPECTED TO ENCOURAGE LANTAU TAXI OPERATORS TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE A BETTER SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC,” HE SAID.

THE NEW FARE SCALE WILL BE SHOWN IN A CONVERSION TABLE WHICH WILL BE ISSUED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT UNTIL THE TAXI METERS ARE RECALIBRATED.

LANTAU TAXI OPERATORS ARE REQUIRED TO DISPLAY THE TABLE PROMINENTLY INSIDE THE VEHICLES.

--------0----------

/15........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

- 15 -

APPOINTMENT OF KCRC BOARD MEMBERS

*****

THE GOVERNOR HAS APPOINTED MR BENJAMIN WONG PUI-TONG AND HAS REAPPOINTED MR DAVID K.P. LI AS BOARD MEMBERS OF THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION FOR A PERIOD OF TWO YEARS FROM DECEMBER 1 THIS YEAR.

MR WONG IS REPLACING MR J.A. RICHARDSON, WHO HAS SERVED AS A MEMBER OF THE CORPORATION FOR FOUR YEARS SINCE 1983. MR WONG CURRENTLY SERVES ON THE MERCANTILE MARINE ASSISTANCE FUND COMMITTEE, THE PANEL OF ASSESSORS AND THE PORTS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE. HE IS ALSO PRESIDENT OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF HONG KONG.

THE OTHER MEMBERS OF THE BOARD, WHICH IS CHAIRED BY MR H.M.G. FORSGATE, ARE MR CHAN KAM-CHUEN, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG, MR LAU WONG-FAT, MR SAMUEL WONG PING-WAI, THE SECRETARY FOR MONETARY AFFAIRS, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT AND THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE CORPORATION.

--------0 ----------

PRACTICAL EDUCATION CENTRE HELPS SCHOOLS TO BROADEN CURRICULA

*****

THE PRACTICAL EDUCATION CENTRE AND THE TECHNICAL TEACHING CENTRE SET UP BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ARE A PRACTICAL EXPRESSION OF THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO ASSIST SCHOOLS TO BROADEN THEIR CURRICULA AND TO MEET THE NEEDS OF STUDENTS WHO HAVE A WIDE RANGE OF APTITUDES, THE DIRECTOR OF TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND INDUSTRIAL TRAINING, MR HORACE KNIGHT, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).

SPEAKING AT A CEREMONY TO MARK THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE TWO CENTRES IN THE PREMISES OF THE FORMER LOK FU GOVERNMENT PRIMARY SCHOOL, MR KNIGHT SAID THE PRACTICAL EDUCATION CENTRE WHICH STARTED OPERATION IN SEPTEMBER LAST YEAR HAD BEEN A POPULAR AND SUCCESSFUL ADDITION TO THE EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM AND PROVIDED MUCH NEEDED PRACTICAL FACILITIES WHICH MANY SCHOOLS DO NOT POSSESS.

NOTING THAT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WOULD BE MONITORING THE USE OF THE CENTRE VERY CAREFULLY, MR KNIGHT SAID HE UNDERSTOOD THAT THE DEPARTMENT WAS ASSESSING THE DEMAND FOR THE NEED FOR A SIMILAR CENTRE ON HONG KONG ISLAND.

RECALLING THE SUGGESTION TO DEVELOP A TECHNICAL TEACHING CENTRE, MR KNIGHT SAID IT WAS THE BRIGHT IDEA OF MR JOHN SWAINE, AN EXPERT OF THE UNITED KINGDOM, INVITED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO ADVISE ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SUBJECT DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY IN HONG KONG.

/"MR SWAINE........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1 ?8?

- 16 -

"MR SWAINE WAS FIRMLY OF THE VIEW THAT TO DEVELOP THE SUBJECT PROPERLY WOULD REQUIRE A SPECIAL TEACHING CENTRE AND THAT SUCH A CENTRE COULD USEFULLY BE ACCOMMODATED IN THE SAME BUILDING AS A PRACTICAL EDUCATION CENTRE," ME KNIGHT SAID, ADDING THAT HE FULLY AGREED WITH THAT VIEW.

SINCE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY WAS INCLUDED AS A SUBJECT IN THE SECONDARY SCHOOL CURRICULUM, MR KNIGHT SAID THE NUMBER OF SCHOOLS OFFERING THE SUBJECT HAD INCREASED FROM 42 IN 1974 TO SOME 200 THIS YEAR.

"THIS RAPID DEVELOPMENT WAS MADE POSSIBLE ONLY THROUGH AN EXPANDED TECHNICAL TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMME UNDERTAKEN BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT," MR KNIGHT SAID.

"TEACHERS OF TECHNICAL SUBJECTS REQUIRE A FACILITY SUCH AS THIS CENTRE WHERE THEY CAN NOT ONLY RECEIVE SPECIALISED IN-SERVICE TRAINING BUT ALSO EXCHANGE IDEAS, FORMULATE NEW TEACHING METHODS, INCREASE THEIR WORKSHOP KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS AND DESIGN AND PRODUCE TEACHING AIDS," HE ADDED.

"PUTTING THE TWO CENTRES TOGETHER, ONE FOR SERVING OUR STUDENTS AND THE OTHER THEIR TEACHERS, IS A MOST APPROPRIATE ARRANGEMENT AND I WISH THEM BOTH EVERY SUCCESS IN MEETING THEIR VITALLY IMPORTANT OBJECTIVES,” MR KNIGHT SAID.

IN HIS ADDRESS OF WELCOME, THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y.T. LI, SAID THE $4.7 MILLION CENTRES SET UP BY THE DEPARTMENT WAS PART OF ITS EFFORT TO PROMOTE THE TEACHING OF PRACTICAL AND TECHNICAL SUBJECTS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS.

THE CENTRE IS MANNED BY QUALIFIED TEACHERS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT. FREE INSTRUCTION IS GIVEN TO STUDENTS WHO ATTEND AN 80-MINUTE SESSION ONCE A WEEK AT THE CENTRE FOR EACH SUBJECT THEY TAKE. THESE INCLUDE WOODWORK, METALWORK, PLASTICS, HOME MANAGEMENT, NEEDLEWORK, PAINTING, POTTERY AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL WORKS UNDER THE THREE SCHOOL SUBJECTS OF DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY, HOME ECONOMICS, AND ART AND DESIGN.

THE CENTRE IS NOW SERVING ABOUT 5,400 SECONDARY 1 AND 2 STUDENTS FROM 11 SCHOOLS IN THE EAST KOWLOON REGION. IT CAN HANDLE UP TO 9,600 STUDENTS WHEN THE CENTRE EXTENDS COURSES FOR SECONDARY 3 STUDENTS IN THE 1988-89 SCHOOL YEAR.

--------o-----------

/17 .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

- 17 -

NEW I.D. CARDS FOR MEN BORN IN 1961-62 * * * *

THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT MEN BORN IN 1961 AND 1962 WOULD BE REQUIRED TO APPLY FOR NEW IDENTITY CARDS FROM NOVEMBER 30, 1987 TO JANUARY 16, 1988.

"MEN OF THE ABOVE AGE GROUP CAN CALL AT ANY ONE OF THE EIGHT NEW IDENTITY CARD ISSUE OFFICES DURING THIS PERIOD," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SAID.

"THEY MAY ALSO USE THE PHONE-IN SERVICE TO ARRANGE FOR AN APPOINTMENT BY CALLING THE OFFICE OF THEIR CHOICE."

THE ADDRESSES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF THE ISSUE OFFICES ARE:

HONG KONG : BASEMENT, 151 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI.

TEL. NO. 5-747070

EAST KOWLOON : AMOY GARDEN PLAZA, SECOND FLOOR, 77 NGAU TAU KOK ROAD.

TEL. NO. 3-7553679

WEST KOWLOON : CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES, SECOND FLOOR, 393 CANTON ROAD, YAU MA TEI.

TEL. NO. 3-7232424

TSUEN WAN : EAST ASIA COMMERCIAL CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, 29-37 TSUEN FU STREET.

TEL. NO. 0-4981259

SHA TIN : SHATIN CENTRE, PODIUM FLOOR, 2-16 WANG POK

STREET.

TEL. NO. 0-6059108

YUEN LONG : HOP YICK CENTRE, SECOND FLOOR, 31 HOP YICK ROAD.

TEL. NO. 0-793291

TUEN MUN : CHI LOK COMMERCIAL CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, CHI LOK FA YUEN.

TEL. NO. 0-4580862

SHEUNG SHUI : TSUEN WO TAI LAU, GROUND FLOOR, 82-84 SAN FUNG AVENUE, SHEK WU HUI.

TEL. NO. 0-927155

THE OFFICES ARE OPEN FROM 8 AM TO 9.30 PM DAILY, EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.

/THE SPOKESMAN .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 198?

- 18 -

THE SPOKESMAN ALSO REMINDED MEN BORN IN 1963 AND 1964 WHO HAVE NOT APPLIED FOR THEIR NEW IDENTITY CARDS TO COME FORWARD WITHOUT DELAY AS THERE IS ONLY ONE WEEK LEFT BEFORE THE CURRENT PHASE CLOSES ON NOVEMBER 28.

HE POINTED OUT THAT ANYONE FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF AN INVALID IDENTITY CARD WOULD BE LIABLE TO PROSECUTION.

THE SPOKESMAN REITERATED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.

--------o----------

CYC MEMBERS CELEBRATE 10TH ANNIVERSARY

*****

THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y. T. LI, CALLED ON MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB (CYC) OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TO BECOME A GOOD CITIZEN IN LINE WITH THE THEME OF THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS OF THE CYC.

SPEAKING AT THE ANNUAL PARADE OF CYC AT THE HONG KONG COLISEUM, MR LI SAID THE SCHEME, INAUGURATED 10 YEARS AGO WITH THE AIM OF EDUCATING SCHOOL CHILDREN TO APPRECIATE MORAL VALUES AND TO BECOME GOOD CITIZENS, HAD GROWN TO A 220,OOO-STRONG BRIGADE TODAY.

THE SUCCESS OF THE SCHEME DEPENDED ON THE SUPPORT OF THE MEMBERS OF PUBLIC AND THE PARTICIPATION OF MEMBERS, MR LI STRESSED.

MR LI ALSO COMMENDED CYC MEMBERS FOR THEIR ATTEMPT TO BREAK THE WORLD'S BIGGEST POSTER RECORD, LISTED IN THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS, AT VICTORIA PARK LAST WEEK.

THE POSTER, WHICH WAS REFORMED AT THE HONG KONG COLISEUM TODAY, WOULD BE CUT INTO 90,000 PIECES AND SOLD TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC IN THE FORM OF CHRISTMAS CARDS IN ORDER TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THEELDERLY,HE NOTED.

IN ANOTHER CHARITABLE ACTIVITY, CYC GIRLS AND BOYS COULD JOIN IN A SCHEME TO KNIT WOOLLEN SHAWLS. ABOUT 950 SHAWLS WOULD BE DISTRIBUTED TO THE ELDERLY AT A FUN DAY FOR THE AGED AROUND LUNAR NEW YEAR, MR LI ADDED.

TO BRING THE CYC MESSAGE TO THE COMMUNITY, MR LI SAID A 13-EPISODE TELEVISION SERIES ON CLUB ACTIVITIES, WITH A CASTING OF CLUB MEMBERS AND FILM AND TELEVISION STARS, WOULD BE BROADCAST ON TVB-JADE ON SUNDAYS, STARTING FROM DECEMBER 13.

/after taking........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 198?

- 19 -

AFTER TAKING THE SALUTE FROM THE CLUB MEMBERS, MR LI PRESENTED PURPLE BADGES TO 300 SENIOR MEMBERS FROM 100 SCHOOLS WHO HAD MADE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE COMMUNITY THROUGH PARTICIPATION IN VARIOUS MEANINGFUL ACTIVITIES.

MR LI ALSO PRESENTED THE FIRST TWO CYC GOLD MEDALS TO THE FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE CYC COUNCIL, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, AND THE FOUNDER OF THE LAW’S FOUNDATIONS TRUST, MR LAW TING-PONG, FOR THEIR SERVICES TOWARDS THE CYC SCHEME. MR LEUNG’S BADGE WAS RECEIVED ON HIS BEHALF BY THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR DAVID LAN.

CYC SILVER OR BRONZE MEDALS WERE PRESENTED TO FOUR OTHER PAST AND PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE CYC CENTRAL COMMITTEE AND DISTRICT COMMITTEES FOR GIVING VALUABLE SERVICE IN THE LAST 10 YEARS.

TODAY’S PROGRAMME ALSO INCLUDED A BAND MARCH BY YUEN LONG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NO. 2 PRIMARY SCHOOL AND TUNG WAH GROUPS OF HOSPITAL LEE CHI-HUNG MEMORIAL PRIMARY P.M. SCHOOL STUDENTS, A DRAGON DANCE BY YUEN LONG PAK KAU ENGLISH SCHOOL AND PAK U MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS, A DANCE BY STUDENTS OF THE SACRED HEART CANOSSIAN COLLEGE AND TWO DRAMAS BY KAU YAN COLLEGE AND OCE PSA KWUN TONO SCHOOL STUDENTS.

A HIGHLIGHT OF THE PARADE CAME WHEN CYC MEMBERS ESCORTED A GROUP OF KIDNEY DONORS AND RECIPIENTS IN FINISHING THE LAST SECTION OF THE "WALK FOR HOPE" IN A CAMPAIGN TO RAISE PUBLIC AWARENESS CONCERNING KIDNEY TRANSPLANTS. THEY BEGAN THEIR JOURNEY LAST FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 13) AT EDINBURGH PLACE AND FINISHED AT THE HONG KONO COLISEUM AFTER WALKING THROUGH MACAU, XHONGSHAN, CANTON AND SHENZHEN.

AS A GESTURE OF APPRECIATION, MR LI PRESENTED BANNERS TO THE WALKERS WHO COMPLETED THE MARATHON JOURNEY.

-----o-----

NEW DEPARTMENT STORE "PITCHES IN" KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN ******

A NEWLY ESTABLISHED DEPARTMENT STORE WILL DONATE 100 LITTER BINS TO THE URBAN COUNCIL IN SUPPORT OF THIS YEAR’S KEEP HONG KONO CLEAN CAMPAIGN.

AT A HAND-OVER CEREMONY TOMORROW (SATURDAY), URBAN COUNCILLORS DR RONALD LEUNG AND MR MAN SAI-CHEONG WILL RECEIVE THE BINS FROM JUSCO STORES (HK) LTD., ON BEHALF OF THE URBAN COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONO CLEAN COMMITTEE.

/the ceremony........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

THE CEREMONY WILL BE FOLLOWED BY A VARIETY SHOW CENTERING ON THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN MESSAGES.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE HAND-OVER CEREMONY WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2:30 PM AT JUSCO STORES (HK) LTD. IN KORNHILL PLAZA (SOUTH). A VAN (UC 2249) FOR THE MEDIA WILL DEPART FOR THE VENUE AT 1:45 PM FROM QUEEN’S PIER, EDINBURGH PLACE. GIS OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

- - 0 - -

FAMILY FUN DAY IN NORTH DISTRICT

*****

ABOUT 800 NORTH DISTRICT RESIDENTS WILL TAKE PART IN A FAMILY FUN DAY TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE CENTRAL PLAYGROUND OF CHEUNG WAH ESTATE, FANLING.

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE CHEUNG WAH COMMUNITY HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE OF THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, THE FUN DAY AIMS AT FOSTERING A SENSE OF NEIGHBOURLINESS AMONG RESIDENTS.

PROGRAMME FOR THE DAY INCLUDES TELEMATCH AND BALL GAMES ON THE THEMES OF HOME SAFETY AND MUTUAL CO-OPERATION.

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CHEUNG WAH COMMUNITY HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE, MR LAW CHAK-TONG, AND THE ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MR TIM MILNES.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE NORTH DISTRICT FAMILY FUN DAY STARTING AT 1 PM TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE CENTRAL PLAYGROUND OF CHEUNG WAH ESTATE, FANLING.

- 0 - -

/21

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

YAU MA TEI TO PROMOTE CLEANLINESS * * * *

A CLEANSING DAY TO PUBLICISE THE KEEP CLEAN MESSAGE WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) TO LAUNCH THE YAU MA TEI ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN.

THE CAMPAIGN IS ORGANISED ANNUALLY TO REMIND RESIDENTS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE.

ACTIVITIES PLANNED FOR THIS YEAR INCLUDE A MARKET CLEANLINESS COMPETITION, DEMOLITION OF ABANDONED SIGNBOARDS, AN EXHIBITION ON HOME SAFETY AND BEAUTIFICATION, A CLEAN BUILDING COMPETITION AND A YEAR-END CLEAN UP.

YAU MA TEI DISTRICT OFFICER, MR AUGUSTINE CHENG, DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR YIP WAH AND SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT (SOUTH KOWLOON) OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR WONG TAK-FUN, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.

THEY WILL ALSO HELP IN CLEANSING THE STREET AFTER THE CEREMONY.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE YAU MA TEI ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN AT 10 AM TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE HENRY G. LEONG YAU MA TEI COMMUNITY CENTRE, 60 PUBLIC SQUARE STREET.

--------0 ----------

SPORTIVE WEEKEND FOR ISLANDERS

* * *

TWO SPORTS EVENTS WILL TAKE PLACE ON LANTAU ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22) AS PART OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL.

IN THE MORNING, MORE THAN 200 ENERGETIC RUNNERS WILL TAKE PART IN THE LANTAU LONG DISTANCE RACE IN MUI WO. THE EVENT IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, ISLANDS SPORTS ASSOCIATION., ISLANDS POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS SECTION, AND IS SPONSORED BY THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD.

RUNNERS WILL START AT THE MUI WO POLICE STATION AT CHUNG HAU. THEY WILL RUN ALONG THE SCENIC SOUTH LANTAU ROAD TO THE FINISHING POINT AT THE YWCA CAMPSITE, SHAN SHEK WAN.

/ISLANDS DISTRICT........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 198?

- 22 -

ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICER, MR JONATHAN NG, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE 7-KILOMETRE RACE AT 10.30 AM AND AT THE PRIZE GIVING CEREMONY AT THE YWCA CAMPSITE AT 11.30 AM.

IN THE AFTERNOON, ABOUT 100 PARTICIPANTS WILL JOIN THE KITE CARNIVAL IN TUNG CHUNG TO COMPETE AT A CONTEST USING KITES SUPPLIED BY THE ORGANISER.

SOME PARTICIPANTS WILL ALSO JOIN A KITE-FLYING COMPETITION TO FLY KITES MADE BY THEMSELVES. MARKS WILL BE GIVEN FOR THE DESIGN AND THE FLYING CAPABILITY OF THE KITES.

RESULTS OF A KITE-MAKING COMPETITION HELD EARLIER WILL BE ANNOUNCED AND MEMBERS OF THE HONG KONG KITE ASSOCIATION WILL GIVE DEMONSTRATIONS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE WELCOME TO COVER THE LANTAU LONG DISTANCE RACE IN MUI WO AND THE KITE CARNIVAL IN TUNG CHUNG ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22).

THE PRESS LAUNCH "TIN HAU" WILL LEAVE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER, TSIM SHA TSUI, FOR MUI WO AT 9 AM.

FOR THOSE COVERING ONLY THE KITE CARNIVAL, A VAN WILL LEAVE MUI WO FERRY PIER AT 12 NOON FOR TUNG CHUNG. INFORMATION OFFICER, MR RAYMOND TAM, WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

--------o-----------

GO-KART RACE TO CONCLUDE SPORTS FESTIVAL » » * »

THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL '87 WILL CLOSE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22) AFTER A TWO-WEEK PROGRAMME IN WHICH RESIDENTS OF ALL AGES AND DIFFERENT SECTORS HAVE TAKEN PART.

TO MARK THE CLOSING, A GO-KART RACE WILL BE HELD AT SAU NGA ROAD PLAYGROUND, GIVING A NEW DIMENSION TO THE LOCAL SPORTS SCENE.

PRIOR TO THE RACE, TWO BASKETBALL MATCHES WILL BE HELD AT HIU KWONG STREET INDOOR GAMES HALL. THE FIRST MATCH WILL BE BETWEEN TVB STARS AND KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS, FOLLOWED BY AN EXHIBITION MATCH BETWEEN TWO Al DIVISION TEAMS.

/PRESENT TO

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

PRESENT TO TOSS THE FIRST BALL AT 10.45 AM WILL BE THE DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON), MR PAUL LEUNG. ALSO ATTENDING THE CEREMONY WILL BE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDDY CHAN; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM HANG-FAI; VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL, MRS ELSIE TU; LEGCO MEMBER, MR POON CHI-FAI; PRESIDENT OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL ’87, MR YU SUN-SAY, AND CHAIRMAN OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, MR RONNIE WONG.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL CLOSING CEREMONY WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22) AT THE HIU KWONG STREET INDOOR GAMES HALL AND THE GO-KART RACE TO START AT NOON AT SAU NGA ROAD PLAYGROUND.

- - 0 - -

SHA TIN ATHLETIC MEET ON SUNDAY

» » » »

SHA TIN RESIDENTS WILL HAVE THE CHANCE TO WATCH A SERIES OF SPORTS EVENTS AT THE 12TH SHA TIN DISTRICT ATHLETIC MEET AT SHA TIN SPORTS GROUND ON YUEN WO ROAD ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22).

THE EVENTS WILL INCLUDE RACES, RELAY RACES, HURDLE, HIGH JUMP, LONG JUMP, TRIPLE JUMP, SHOT PUT, JAVELIN AND DISCUS THROW.

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE SHA TIN SPORTS ASSOCIATION AND REGIONAL COUNCIL WITH THE HELP OF THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE, THE ATHLETIC MEET IS AIMED AT PROMOTING SPORTSMANSHIP AND SELECTING OUTSTANDING ATHLETES TO REPRESENT THE DISTRICT IN THE 3RD NEW TERRITORIES INTER-DISTRICT ATHLETIC MEET.

ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER OF SHA TIN, MISS MARGARET FONG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR NG CHAN-LAM; DB MEMBERS MR WONG PO-MING, MR LAU KONG-WAH AND MR ROGER LAU; SHA TIN SPORTS ASSOCIATION CHAIRMAN, MR WAI KWOK-HUNG; AND SHA TIN LEISURE MANAGER, MR LAU TAK-SIU, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 10 AM.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE 12TH SHA TIN DISTRICT ATHLETIC MEET, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22) AT THE SHA TIN SPORTS GROUND, YUEN WO ROAD, SHA TIN.

- - 0

/24

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20,

1987

CHARITY WALK TO PROMOTE INTEGRATION

*****

RESIDENTS OF KWAI CHUNG AND TSING YI ARE BEING INVITED TO TAKE PART IN A CHARITY WALK FOR THE DISABLED AND THE ABLE-BODIED ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22) AT SHING MUN RIVER COUNTRY PARK.

THE CHARITY WALK, JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWAI THING DISTRICT BOARD AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, IS PART OF THE DISTRICT’S PROGRAMME INTENDED TO PROMOTE THE CONCEPT OF INTEGRATION BETWEEN THE DISABLED AND THE ABLE-BODIED.

THE EVENT, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM, AIMS AT RAISING $80,000, WHICH WILL BE USED FOR HELPING LOW-INCOME SINGLE-PARENT FAMILIES LIVING IN THE DISTRICT.

SPONSORSHIP FORMS FOR PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION ARB AVAILABLE AT THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICE AND SEVEN SUB-OFFICES. RESIDENTS MAY ALSO OBTAIN FORMS AT THE STARTING POINT.

OFFICIATING AT THE BEGINNING OF THE WALK WILL BE THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR YAU HON-KEE; ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MR PHILIP CHAN; CHIEF SOCIAL WELFARE OFFICER, MR ANTHONY CHAN; LEISURE MANAGER, MR W.K. LIU; SENIOR EDUCATION OFFICER, MR S.L. LEE; POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS OFFICER, MR L.C. TAM; AND COUNTRY PARK MANAGEMENT OFFICER, MR K.K. YEUNG.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CHARITY WALK FOR THE DISABLED AND THE ABLE-BODIED TO BEGIN AT 10 AM ON SUNDAY AT SHING MUN RIVER COUNTRY PARK. PRESS REPRESENTATIVES MAY GO DIRECT TO THE VENUE OR TAKE A COACH WHICH WILL LEAVE HO FUNG COLLEGE AT 9.30 AM.

- - 0 - -

DEATH SENTENCE COMMUTED

» » ♦

THE GOVERNOR, AFTER TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION THE ADVICE OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, HAS DECIDED THAT THE DEATH SENTENCE PASSED ON CHOW KAI-KWONG, ON MAY 28, 1986 SHOULD BE COMMUTED TO A SENTENCE OF 12 YEARS' IMPRISONMENT. CHOW WAS FOUND GUILTY OF THE MURDER OF CHOW FUK-YUE AND CHOW MAN-KWONG.

- - 0

/25

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20,

1987

- 25 -

EXHIBITION ON REHABILITATIVE SERVICES *****

THE JOINT FUNCTION COMMITTEE OF THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT REHABILITATION SERVICE WILL ORGANISE AN EXHIBITION ON REHABILITATIVE SERVICES IN KWUN TONG ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 22) TO ENHANCE RESIDENTS’ UNDERSTANDING OF AND CONCERN FOR THE DISABLED.

SPONSORED BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD AND THE LIONESS CLUB OF HONG KONG ISLAND, THE FUNCTION WILL ALSO INCLUDE A LION DANCE, DRAMA AND MUSIC PERFORMANCES BY DISABLED MEMBERS OF THE PARTICIPATING GOVERNMENT UNITS AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE EXHIBITION ON REHABILITATIVE SERVICES IN KWUN TONG AT THE TELFORD GARDEN MAIN SQUARE, KOWLOON BAY, AT 10.30 AM ON SUNDAY.

KOWLOON AREA TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM BEING EXPANDED * * * *

THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF CIVIL AND DUCTING WORKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE EXPANSION OF THE KOWLOON AREA TRAFFIC CONTROL (ATC) SYSTEM TO WONG TAI SIN, SAN PO KONG AND KWUN TONG DISTRICTS.

THE EXISTING ATC SYSTEM IN KOWLOON COVERS MOST URBAN AREAS EXCEPT WONG TAI SIN, SAN PO KONG AND KWUN TONG. TO CONTROL AND IMPROVE THE TRAFFIC SITUATION IN THESE THREE DISTRICTS, IT HAS BEEN DECIDED THEY SHOULD BE COVERED AS WELL.

THE EQUIPMENT USED BY MAJORITY OF THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL CONTROLLERS IN THESE DISTRICTS WILL BE LINKED TO THE COMPUTER FACILITIES IN THE ATC CENTRAL CONTROL ROOM IN YAU MA TEI BY UNDERGROUND TELECOMMUNICATION CABLES.

CIVIL AND DUCTING WORKS FOR THE PROJECT ARE SCHEDULED TO BEGIN IN JANUARY AND BE COMPLETED LATE NEXT YEAR. CABLING WORK WILL BEGIN IMMEDIATELY AFTERWARDS, WITH A VIEW TO COMMISSIONING THE KOWLOON ATC EXPANDED SYSTEM IN MID-1989.

-----0-----

/26........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

- 26 -

PERMANENT CLOSURE OF STREET SECTION PROPOSED

*****

A SECTION OF SHBUNG TAK STREET SOUTH OF TUNG TAU TSUEN ROAD IN LOWER WONG TAI SIN ESTATE IS TO BE PERMANENTLY CLOSED AS A RESULT OF THE REDEVELOPMENT OF LOWER WONG TAI SIN ESTATE.

THE PROPOSED CLOSURE, WHICH WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY), IS NECESSARY IN CONNECTION WITH THE CONSTRUCTION OF A TRIDENT BLOCK AND EXTERNAL WORKS, INCLUDING A BASKETBALL COURT AND A CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND IN PHASE EIGHT OF THE REDEVELOPMENT OF LOWER WONG TAI SIN ESTATE.

A PLAN SHOWING THE WORKS CAN BE SEEN AT THE CENTRAL ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, WEST WING, MAIN ENTRANCE LOBBY, 11 ICE HOUSE STREET, HONG KONG; AT THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, KOWLOON EAST, YAU MA TEI CAR PARK BUILDING, 10TH FLOOR, 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON; AND AT THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE, SAN PO KONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, KING FUK STREET, SAN PO KONG, KOWLOON.

ANYONE OBJECTING TO THE CLOSURE SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, AT THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG, BY JANUARY 19, NEXT YEAR.

-----0------

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN WAN CHAI

*****

TO FACILITATE ROAD RESURFACING WORKS IN WAN CHAI, THE UP RAMP OF CANAL ROAD FLYOVER LEADING FROM CANAL ROAD WEST WILL BE TEMPORARILY CLOSED TO TRAFFIC BETWEEN 1 AM AND 6 AM FROM MONDAY (NOVEMBER 23) TO NOVEMBER 27.

DURING THE CLOSURE, VEHICLES ON MORRISON HILL ROAD HEADING FOR NORTH POINT WILL BE DIVERTED VIA LEIGHTON ROAD, WHILE VEHICLES ON LEIGHTON ROAD WESTBOUND HEADING FOR CENTRAL AND NORTH POINT WILL BE DIVERTED VIA MORRISON HILL ROAD.

THE KOWLOON-BOUND TUNNEL BUS ROUTES NO. 121 AND 122 ON EITHER MORRISON HILL ROAD OR CANAL ROAD EAST WILL BE DIVERTED VIA LEIGHTON ROAD, WONG NAT CHUNG ROAD AND THE UP RAMP LINKING MORRISON HILL ROAD TO CANAL ROAD FLYOVER.

-----0------

/27........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1987

BAN ON HEAVY VEHICLES IN WAN CHAI

« « «

» *

NO VEHICLE OVER FOUR TONNES MALLORY STREET IN WAN CHAI BETWEEN FOR ABOUT TWO MONTHS FROM 10 AM ON DRAINAGE WORKS.

GROSS WILL BE ALLOWED TO ENTER WAN CHAI ROAD AND JOHNSTON ROAD MONDAY (NOVEMBER 23) TO FACILITATE

-------0

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

GOVERNOR WATCHES CAS CADETS IN TRAINING ................. 1

GOVERNOR TO VISIT CHINA NEXT MONTH....................... 2

COMMITTEE ON SCIENTIFICALLY ASSISTED HUMAN REPRODUCTION

FORMED 2

ENOUGH TRAINED SAFETY OFFICERS TO MEET DEMAND......... ’ 3

ONE-WAY TOLL FOR LION ROCK TUNNEL STARTS ON MONDAY... 5

CAS HOLDS FAMILY DAY TO CELEBRATE ANNIVERSARY ........... 6

ELDERLY PEOPLE HAVE EARNED RESPECT..................... 6

SCHOOLS IMPORTANT IN PROMOTING CIVIC EDUCATION .......... 7

CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED TO PROMOTE CLEANLINESS................. 9

FIGHT CRIME SHOW IN SHA TAU KOK.......................... 9

SPORTS DAY FOR YAU MA TEI RESIDENTS..................... 10

NEW TIDE TABLES NOW ON SALE............................ 11

ROAD CLOSURE, URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTION ............... 11

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1987

GOVERNOR WATCHES CAS CADETS IN TRAINING

« » » * «

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AND LADY WILSON TODAY (SATURDAY) HAD A CLOSE LOOK AT THE WIDE RANGE OF FACILITIES PROVIDED IN THE TRAINING OF CADETS OF THE CIVIL AID SERVICES DURING A VISIT TO THE CAS YUEN TUN CAMP IN TSUEN WAN.

ACCOMPANIED BY THE CAS COMMISSIONER, SIR ROGER LOBO, THEY FLEW TO THE CAMP BY HELICOPTER AND WERE MET BY THE TWO DEPUTY COMMISSIONERS, MR JOHN FORTUNE AND MR VICTOR SO.

SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON WERE BRIEFED ON THE GENERAL LAYOUT OF THE CAMP AS WELL AS PLANS FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT WHICH FOLLOWED A $1.5 MILLION DONATION TO THE CAS FROM THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB.

THEY THEN TOURED THE CAMP AND WATCHED OFFICERS AND CADETS UNDERGOING VARIOUS TRAINING EXERCISES IN LIGHT RESCUE AND CASUALTY HANDLING.

THE PARTY ALSO SAW OTHER ACTIVITIES AT THE CAMP INCLUDING ROPE INITIATIVE COURSE, BICYCLE SOCCER, ARCHERY AND PIONEERING COURSE IN CAMP-CRAFT.

THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON LATER VISITED THE OLD YUEN TUN VILLAGE MUSEUM.

AFTER TOURING THE CAMP, THE GOVERNOR TOLD REPORTERS THAT HE WAS VERY IMPRESSED WITH THE WORK DONE BY CAS VOLUNTEERS.

THE CAS WAS ANOTHER EXAMPLE IN HONG KONG OF VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS WHICH DID SO MUCH FOR THE COMMUNITY, HE SAID.

DURING THE LAST WEEKEND FOR INSTANCE, SIR DAVID POINTED OUT THAT THERE WERE CAS MEMBERS OUT FIRE FIGHTING AND OTHERS ON DUTY AT VARIOUS PLACES AND FUNCTIONS INCLUDING THE COUNTRY PARKS, THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN, A CAREERS EXHIBITION IN SHA TIN AND COMMUNITY CHEST ACTIVITIES.

HE ADDED THAT THE CAS WAS ONE OF THE MANY ORGANISATIONS WHICH HELPED "TO HEEP HONG KONG AS AN EFFECTIVE AND A LIVELY PLACE AS IT IS" .

-------o---------

/2........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 f 1987

GOVERNOR TO VISIT CHINA NEXT MONTH » t » ♦ t

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, WILL PAY A SIX-DAY VISIT TO CHINA EARLY NEXT MONTH, HIS SECOND SINCE ASSUMING OFFICE AS GOVERNOR OF HONG KONG IN APRIL THIS YEAR.

THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THE FORTHCOMING TRIP IS TO OPEN THE TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL’S OFFICE IN SHANGHAI. BEFORE THAT, HE WILL PAY A VISIT TO CANTON, AND AFTERWARDS HE WILL TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO VISIT PEKING FOR DISCUSSIONS WITH SENIOR CHINESE OFFICIALS ON MATTERS OF MUTUAL INTEREST.

SIR DAVID WILL LEAVE FOR CANTON ON NOVEMBER 30 (MONDAY) AND WILL FLY TO SHANGHAI THE NEXT DAY.

AFTER OPENING THE TDC OFFICE ON DECEMBER 2, THE GOVERNOR WILL FLY TO PEKING THE FOLLOWING DAY TO HOLD TALKS WITH CHINESE OFFICIALS ON DECEMBER 4.

THE GOVERNOR WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON DECEMBER 5 (SATURDAY).

- 0 -

COMMITTEE ON SCIENTIFICALLY ASSISTED HUMAN REPRODUCTION FORMED » ♦ ♦ » ♦

A COMMITTEE HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED TO CONSIDER THE SOCIAL, MORAL, ETHICAL AND LEGAL ISSUES ARISING FROM LOCAL DEVELOPMENTS IN REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGY DESIGNED TO HELP INFERTILE WOMEN TO HAVE BABIES.

THIS COMMITTEE, TO BE CALLED THE COMMITTEE ON SCIENTIFICALLY ASSISTED HUMAN REPRODUCTION, WILL ALSO ASSESS THE PUBLIC’S REACTION TOWARDS THESE ISSUES AND ADVISE GOVERNMENT ON HOW THEY SHOULD BE ADDRESSED.

SCIENTIFICALLY ASSISTED HUMAN REPRODUCTION TECHNIQUES, SUCH AS IN-VITRO FERTILIZATION, HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED IN HONG KONG IN THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS. IN VIEW OF THE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS THAT MAY ARISE AS A RESULT OF FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS IN THIS FIELD, GOVERNMENT HAS SEEN IT APPROPRIATE TO SET UP A SPECIAL COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER THE IMPLICATIONS IN THE LOCAL CONTEXT.

/THE COMMITTEE

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1987

THE COMMITTEE WILL BE CHAIRED BY DR LEONG CHE-HUNG, A MEDICAL DOCTOR. MEMBERS INCLUDE MR CHRISTOPHER CHAN, SOLICITOR; MR JIMSON CHAN, SOCIAL WORKER; DR FANNY CHEUNG, PSYCHOLOGIST; DR CONRAD LAM, LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBER; MRS PEGGY LAM, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE HONG KONG FAMILY PLANNING ASSOCIATION AND DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER; DR LAW CHI-LIM, GYNAECOLOGIST; AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS, MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT AND HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH.

THE ISSUES THE COMMITTEE IS EXPECTED TO DISCUSS INITIALLY WOULD INCLUDE COMMERCIAL SURROGACY AND WHETHER LICENSING REQUIREMENTS ARE NEEDED TO CONTROL DEVELOPMENTS IN THE FIELD, IN ADDITION TO THE CODE OF PRACTICE ALREADY IN PLACE.

-----0------

ENOUGH TRAINED SAFETY OFFICERS. TO MEET DEMAND

*****

THERE SHOULD BE AN ADEQUATE POOL OF TRAINED SAFETY OFFICERS AND SAFETY SUPERVISORS AVAILABLE FOR EMPLOYMENT WHEN THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (SAFETY OFFICERS AND SAFETY SUPERVISORS) REGULATIONS COME INTO OPERATION ON DECEMBER 1 THIS YEAR, THE CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, MR YIP YUK-LUN, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).

CITING STATISTICS, MR YIP SAID THAT SINCE 1979, A TOTAL OF 786 PEOPLE HAD COMPLETED SAFETY OFFICER COURSES AT THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC AND THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY’S TRAINING CENTRE.

IN ADDITION, SOME 200 PEOPLE ARE EXPECTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING BY THE END OF THE CURRENT ACADEMIC YEAR.

THESE FIGURES ARE ON TOP OF THE 12,000 PERSONS WHO HAVE COMPLETED CONSTRUCTION SAFETY COURSES RUN BY THE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT OR OTHER ORGANISATIONS AND ARE CAPABLE OF PERFORMING THE DUTIES OF A SAFETY SUPERVISOR.

HE ALSO NOTED THAT AS AT THE END OF JUNE THIS YEAR, THERE WERE ABOUT 100 CONSTRUCTION SITES EMPLOYING 200 WORKERS OR MORE, AND ABOUT 800 SITES EMPLOYING 20 WORKERS OR MORE.

"I AM THEREFORE CONFIDENT THAT THE AVAILABILITY OF TRAINED SAFETY OFFICERS AND SAFETY SUPERVISORS WILL MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE REGULATIONS, WHICH REFLECT THE GOVERNMENT’S DETERMINATION TO PROMOTE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND HEALTH IN INDUSTRY," MR YIP SAID.

/MR YIP

SATURDAY, N0VD4BER 21, 1987

MR YIP WAS ADDRESSING SOME 150 SAFETY OFFICERS ATTENDING A TWO-DAY RESIDENTIAL SEMINAR IN MACAU.

THE EVENT WHICH IS AIMED AT ENHANCING UNDERSTANDING AND CO-OPERATION BETWEEN SAFETY OFFICERS, MANAGEMENT AND THE GOVERNMENT, IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ASSOCIATION, THE HONG KONO INDUSTRIAL SAFETY ASSOCIATION, THE MACAU LABOUR DEPARTMENT, AND THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE DIVISION OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT.

UNDER THE REGULATIONS WHICH WOULD INITIALLY APPLY ONLY TO THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, A PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR OR SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO EMPLOY ONE REGISTERED SAFETY OFFICER FULL-TIME IF HE EMPLOYS 200 OR MORE PEOPLE ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE OR SITES, AND TO EMPLOY ONE SAFETY SUPERVISOR ON EACH CONSTRUCTION SITE ON WHICH HE EMPLOYS 20 OR MORE WORKERS.

"A SAFETY OFFICER, HELPED BY A SAFETY SUPERVISOR WHERE APPROPRIATE, WOULD ASSIST THE PROPRIETOR IN PROMOTING THE SAFETY AND HEALTH OF THOSE EMPLOYED," MR YIP SAID.

"HIS DUTIES WOULD INCLUDE INSPECTING PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT TO IDENTIFY SAFETY RISKS, ADVISING ON PREVENTIVE MEASURES, MAKING RECOMMENDATIONS ON ACCIDENT PREVENTION AND INVESTIGATING ACCIDENTS AND DANGEROUS OCCURRENCES.

"MOST IMPORTANT, BECAUSE THE SAFETY OFFICER WILL BE APPOINTED BY THE PROPRIETOR, HE WILL BE IN AN ADVANTAGEOUS POSITION TO PERSUADE AND CONVINCE OTHER EMPLOYEES ON SITE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF USING PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND OBSERVING SAFE WORK PRACTICES."

AS FOR THE SAFETY SUPERVISOR, HIS DUTIES WILL BE TO ADVISE ON SAFETY STANDARDS FOR WORKERS, SUPERVISE THE OBSERVANCE OF SUCH STANDARDS AND PROMOTE SAFETY AT WORK.

THE PROPRIETOR WILL ALSO BE OBLIGED TO ENSURE THAT HIS SAFETY OFFICERS AND SAFETY SUPERVISORS CARRY OUT THEIR DUTIES PROPERLY AND TO PROVIDE THEM WITH ALL NECESSARY ASSISTANCE AND FACILITIES TO ACHIEVE THIS AIM.

"I EXPECT THAT THIS JOINT EFFORT OF THE PROPRIETOR, THE SAFETY OFFICER AND THE EMPLOYEES CONCERNED WORKING TOGETHER WILL PROVE TO BE A MORE EFFECTIVE MEANS OF ENSURING SAFETY AT WORK," MR YIP OBSERVED.

THE TWO-DAY SEMINAR WAS OFFICIALLY OPENED TODAY (SATURDAY) BY THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMICS OF MACAU, DR ANTONIO GALHARDO SIMOBS; THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SHELL COMPANY, MR HANMER WEBB-PBPLOB; AND THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR HAROLD KWOK.

AMONG THE TOPICS TO BE DISCUSSED ARE PROBLEMS FACED BY SAFETY OFFICERS, THE FUNCTION OF SAFETY OFFICERS FROM THE MANAGEMENT POINT OF VIEW AND THE SPIRIT OF THE SAFETY OFFICERS REGULATIONS.

-------o -------- /5....................

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1987

- 5

ONE-WAY TOLL FOR LION ROCK TUNNEL STARTS ON MONDAY

* ♦ * * ♦

THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT TODAY (SATURDAY) REMINDED MOTORISTS AND TAXI PASSENGERS THAT FROM 3 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 23), THEY WILL HAVE TO PAY A $6 TOLL CHARGE WHEN TRAVELLING TO THE NEW TERRITORIES VIA THE LION ROCK TUNNEL.

HOWEVER, MOTORISTS AND TAXI PASSENGERS HEADING FOR KOWLOON USING THE TUNNEL WILL NOT HAVE TO PAY ANY TOLL.

"THIS IS BECAUSE A ONE-WAY NO TOLL EXPERIMENT WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN THE LION ROCK TUNNEL FROM 3 AM ON MONDAY TO 3 AM ON DECEMBER 21 TO ASSESS WHETHER TRAFFIC FLOW THROUGH THE TUNNEL CAN BE IMPROVED,” A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.

UNDER THE FOUR-WEEK EXPERIMENT, SOME OF THE TOLL BOOTHS ON THE SOUTHBOUND TUNNEL WILL BE CLOSED AND TRAFFIC WILL BE CHANNELLED TO THE TUNNEL PORTAL.

"THIS WILL REDUCE THE PRESENT MERGING PROBLEM IN THE TUNNEL PLAZA, THEREBY ENSURING SMOOTH TRAFFIC FLOW INTO THE TUNNEL.

"MOTORISTS ARE ADVISED TO FOLLOW TRAFFIC CONES AND ADVISORY SIGNS PUT UP IN THE TOLL PLAZA AREA AND ON THE APPROACH ROADS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE TUNNEL," HE SAID.

HE ALSO URGED MOTORISTS TO DRIVE WITH CARE ESPECIALLY WHEN ENTERING THE TOLL BOOTHS WHICH WILL NOT BE REMOVED DURING THE EXPERIMENT.

MEANWHILE, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAS PREPARED A NOTICE ADVISING TAXI DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS OF THE NEW TOLL ARRANGEMENT.

"COPIES OF THE NOTICE ARE AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION BY TAXI DRIVERS AT THE DEPARTMENT’S FOUR LICENSING OFFICES IN MURRAY ROAD, DUNDAS STREET, LEI YUE MUN ROAD AND SHA TIN KCR STATION, AS WELL AS DISTRICT OFFICES," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD MONITOR THE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT SITUATION ON THE ROAD NETWORK AFFECTED BY THE EXPERIMENT.

"IF SEVERE TRAFFIC CONGESTION OCCURS, THE EXPERIMENT WILL BE DISCONTINUED AT ANY TIME AND THE PUBLIC WILL BE NOTIFIED THROUGH THE MEDIA," HE ADDED.

-------0----------

/6........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1987

CAS HOLDS FAMILY DAY TO CELEBRATE ANNIVERSARY

* ♦ ♦ *

THE CIVIL AID SERVICES WILL HOLD A FAMILY DAY TO CELEBRATE ITS 35TH ANNIVERSARY AT THE MORETON TERRACE PLAYGROUND, CAUSEWAY BAY, ON NOVEMBER 29 (SUNDAY). CAS COMMISSIONER, SIR ROGER LOBO, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 11 AM.

THE FAMILY DAY, WHICH WILL LAST UNTIL 3 PM, WILL PROVIDE GAMES AND ENTERTAINMENT TO CAS OFFICERS, MEMBERS, CADETS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

THE PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE PERFORMANCES AND VARIETY SHOWS BY THE HONG KONG DEFENCE ANIMAL SUPPORT UNIT, THE CAS MOTOR CYCLE DEMONSTRATION TEAM, THE CAS BAND, THE CADET POP MUSIC BAND AND THE CAS BICYCLE DEMONSTRATION TEAM.

THERE WILL BE 30 STALLS FOR GAMES, DRINKS AND SALE OF SOUVENIR ITEMS. THESE STALLS WILL BE OPENED FROM 12 NOON AND PRIZES WILL BE AWARDED TO WINNERS AT THE GAMESTALLS.

THERE WILL ALSO BE A DISPLAY OF FIRE ENGINE, SARACENS, CAS OPERATIONAL VEHICLES AND RESCUE EQUIPMENT. TV GAMES, PONY RIDE, KIDDIE RIDE AND A TRAMPOLINE WILL BE ARRANGED FOR CHILDREN.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CIVIL AID SERVICES FAMILY DAY OPENING CEREMONY AT 11 AM ON NOVEMBER 29 (SUNDAY) AT THE MORETON TERRACE PLAYGROUND, OPPOSITE TO VICTORIA PARK, CAUSEWAY BAY. THE PRESS LIAISON OFFICER, MR AU YIN-SHAN, WILL BE ON HANI) TO ASSIST.

---0------

ELDERLY PEOPLE HAVE EARNED RESPECT

» » ♦ » »

RESPECT FOR THE ELDERLY, WHO HAVE MADE NUMEROUS CONTRIBUTIONS TO THEIR FAMILIES AND THE SOCIETY IN THEIR YOUNGER DAYS, SHOULD NOT BE CHANGED EVEN THOUGH THE FAMILY SYSTEM AND THE SOCIAL STRUCTURE ARE CONSTANTLY CHANGING, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).

MRS WONG WAS SPEAKING AT THE COMBINED INAUGURATION CEREMONY OF THE NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE CHUNG SHEK HEI (CHEUNG CHAU) HOME FOR THE AGED AND THE OPENING OF THE NINTH FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY ON CHEUNG CHAU.

/SHE NOTED

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 198?

SHE NOTED THAT THE FESTIVAL HAD BEEN ORGANISED TO HELP UPHOLD THE TRADITION OF RESPECT FOR SENIOR CITIZENS. VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMMES WOULD BE PROVIDED BY THE GOVERNMENT, VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND DISTRICT ORGANISATIONS.

AS HONG KONG PEOPLE WERE TODAY ENJOYING A LONGER LIFE SPAN, APPROPRIATE LONG-TERM POLICIES AND PLANS TO SERVE THE ELDERLY WERE BEING DRAWN UP BY THE GOVERNMENT, MRS WONG SAID.

"IN THE MIDDLE OF THIS YEAR, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS WERE RE-ORGANISED WHEREBY SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY WERE STRENGTHENED TO ENSURE THAT THE ELDERLY CAN ENJOY A HAPPY AND MEANINGFUL OLD AGE, CONTINUING WITH MAKING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE SOCIETY," SHE SAID.

SHE SAID SHE RECOGNISED THERE WAS AN URGENT NEED FOR SETTING UP A SOCIAL CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY ON FAST-DEVELOPING CHEUNG CHAU, WITH ITS LARGE NUMBER OF HEALTHY ELDERLY PEOPLE.

MRS WONG PAID TRIBUTE TO THE DIRECTORS OF THE CHUNG SHEK HEI HOME AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY FOR THEIR EFFORTS IN RAISING FUNDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CENTRE.

THE CHUNG SHEK HEI HOME FOR THE AGED, APART FROM PROVIDING SOUND LIVING CONDITIONS FOR THE AGED, ALSO ARRANGES A WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES, SUCH AS INTEREST GROUPS AND VISITS, TO ENRICH THE LIFE OF ELDERLY RESIDENTS.

------0-------

SCHOOLS IMPORTANT IN PROMOTING CIVIC EDUCATION

*****

JOINT EFFORTS ARE BEING MADE BY VARIOUS INTEGRAL PARTS OF THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION BOTH WITHIN AND OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL SYSTEM, THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDDY CHAN, SAID THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING.

"SINCE CIVIC EDUCATION AND DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION ARE CLOSELY RELATED, CONCERNED BODIES LIKE THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION (CNTA), DISTRICT BOARDS, DISTRICT OFFICERS AND SCHOOL LIAISON COMMITTEES HAVE ALL ATTACHED DUE IMPORTANCE TO THE CAMPAIGN," HE SAID.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE JOINT SCHOOL GRAND PARADE AT KOWLOON BAY RECREATION GROUND ORGANISED BY THE KWUN TONG SCHOOL LIAISON COMMITTEE, MR CHAN POINTED OUT THAT CNTA HAD SET UP A COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION LAST YEAR TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL SYSTEM.

/••A RESOURCE.......

SATURDAY, NOVINBER 21, 1987

"A RESOURCE INDEX, WHICH SERVES AS A USEFUL REFERENCE TO ORGANISATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS WISHING TO ORGANISE CIVIC EDUCATION ACTIVITIES, HAS ALSO BEEN PUBLISHED,” HE ADDED.

ON THE ROLE OF SCHOOL LIAISON COMMITTEES (SLC), MR fCHAN SAID THE KWUN TONG SLC HAD BEEN ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN VARIOUS ACTIVITIES TO PROMOTE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION AND CIVIC EDUCATION.

HE SAID A CARNIVAL AND A "TO KNOW YOUR GOVERNMENT, TO CARE FOR THE COMMUNITY" EXHIBIT DESIGN COMPETITION HAD BEEN HELD EARLY THIS YEAR TO INSTIL'THE CONCEPT OF PERSONAL INTEGRITY AND TO ENHANCE CIVIC-MINDEDNESS AMONG STUDENTS AND YOUTHS.

"THESE ACTIVITIES WOULD HELP YOUNG PEOPLE UNDERSTAND THEIR CIVIC RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES, CARE ABOUT DISTRICT AFFAIRS AND IDENTIFY THEIR ROLE IN THE COMMUNITY," HE SAID.

HE URGED MORE LOCAL ORGANISATIONS TO ORGANISE SIMILAR PROJECTS TO FURTHER PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION.

ALSO SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR DAVID LAN, POINTED OUT THAT THE SCHOOL SYSTEM WAS THE MOST EFFECTIVE CHANNEL THROUGH WHICH YOUNG PEOPLE COULD BE TRAINED TO BECOME "GOOD CITIZENS".

MR LAN SAID THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAD STATED IN ITS "GUIDELINES ON CIVIC EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS" THAT AN IDEAL SCHOOL LIFE SHOULD LEAD TO PARALLEL DEVELOPMENTS IN ACADEMIC CURRICULUM AND ACTIVITY.

"AS IT IS BELIEVED THAT ACTIVE PARTICIPATION PROVES TO BE MORE EFFECTIVE THAN PASSIVE LEARNING IN THE TRANSMISSION OF KNOWLEDGE, SCHOOLS SHOULD AUGMENT EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES TO ENHANCE THE SOCIAL SKILLS OF STUDENT THROUGH INFORMAL EDUCATION," HE SAID.

HE SAID THE GRAND PARADE HAD A SIGNIFICANT MEANING IN HIGHLIGHTING THE THEME OF "CIVIC EDUCATION THROUGH EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES".

MR LAN SAID THE PARADE HAD PROVIDED AN OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN GROUP ACTIVITIES AND THE TOPICS FEATURED IN THE FUNCTION - "I LOVE HONG KONG", "CLEAN HONG KONG", AND "ANTI-CORRUPTION" - WERE SOME OF MOST PRACTICAL SUBJECTS IN CIVIC EDUCATION.

MORE THAN 1,000 STUDENTS TOOK PART IN TODAY’S FUNCTION WHICH PROGRAMME INCLUDED A JOINT SCHOOL CHOIR, A COSTUME COMPETITION, A JOINT SCHOOL PARADE AND TELE-MATCHES.

----0-----

/9........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1987

- 9 -

CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED TO PROMOTE CLEANLINESS

*****

A CLEANSING DAY TO AROUSE PUBLIC AWARENESS AND PARTICIPATION IN KEEPING THE ENVIRONMENT CLEAN WAS HELD IN YAU MA TEI TODAY (SATURDAY) TO MARK THE OPENING OF THE DISTRICT’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT THE HENRY G. LEONG YAU MA TEI COMMUNITY CENTRE, CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR LO CHI-KEUNG, SAID THE CAMPAIGN WAS HELD ANNUALLY TO PROMOTE CLEANLINESS AND TO IMPROVE THE LIVING ENVIRONMENT OF THE DISTRICT.

HE SAID A WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES, COVERING VARIOUS ASPECTS OF CLEANLINESS, BUILDING MANAGEMENT, HOME SAFETY AND BEAUTIFICATION WOULD BE HELD.

THESE INCLUDE COMPETITIONS FOR THE CLEANEST BUILDING AND MARKET STALL, OPERATIONS TO CLEAR ABANDONED SIGNBOARDS AND REFUSE, AND AN EXHIBITION TO INTRODUCE PRODUCTS AND FACILITIES FOR BETTER LIVING.

MR LO CALLED ON RESIDENTS TO GIVE FULL SUPPORT TO THE ACTIVITIES AND TO STRIVE FOR A BETTER AND CLEANER ENVIRONMENT.

OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS AT THE CEREMONY INCLUDED YAU MA TEI DISTRICT OFFICER, MR AUGUSTINE CHENG, DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR YIP WAH, AND SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT (SOUTH KOWLOON) OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR WONG TAK-FUN.

THE CAMPAIGN, WHICH WILL LAST UNTIL FEBRUARY NEXT YEAR, IS SPONSORED BY THE YAU MA TEI DISTRICT BOARD.

--------O---------

FIGHT CRIME SHOW IN SHA TAU KOK * * * *

HUNDREDS OF SHA TAU KOK RESIDENTS ENJOYED A VARIETY SHOW TO SPREAD THE FIGHT CRIME MESSAGE AT THE SHA TAU KOK PLAYGROUND TODAY (SATURDAY).

THE SHOW, ORGANISED BY THE NORTH DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, WAS AIMED AT AROUSING PUBLIC AWARENESS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF CRIME PREVENTION AND REMINDING YOUNG PEOPLE NOT TO BECOME INVOLVED IN TRIAD ACTIVITIES.

/PROGRAMME FOR .......

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1987

10 -

PROGRAMME FOR THE SHOW INCLUDES POP SONOS, MAGIC SHOW, DRAMA SHOW BY THE FRONTIER JUNIOR POLICE CALL, AND A CHINESE ORCHESTRAL PERFORMANCE BY THE NORTH DISTRICT ARTS ADVANCEMENT ASSOCIATION.

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WERE ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICR OF NORTH DISTRICT, MR JOHN LEUNG; DIVISIONAL COMMANDER (BORDER) OF THE RHKPF, MR CHAN PO-KWONG; CHAIRMAN OF THE NORTH DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, MR TAO MAN-KWONG; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE SHA TAU KOK RURAL COMMITTEE, MR LAW YUM-MAN.

-----0-----

SPORTS DAY FOR YAU MA TEI RESIDENTS

*****

MORE THAN 500 SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS WILL TAKE PART IN THE YAU MA TEI SPORTS DAY AT THE SHAM SHUI PO SPORTS GROUND TOMORROW (SUNDAY).

THERE ARE 14 TRACK AND FIELD EVENTS ON THE PROGRAMME.

THE ANNUAL EVENT IS ORGANISED BY THE YAU MA TEI AND TSIM SHA TSUI RECREATION AND SPORTS ASSOCIATION AND THE URBAN COUNCIL. IT IS SPONSORED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD.

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE YAU MA TEI DISTRICT OFFICER, MR AUGUSTINE CHENG; DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER, MR CHAN WAI-WANG; URBAN COUNCILLOR, DR PHILIP KWOK; AND PRESIDENT OF THE ASSOCIATION, MR CHAN YAM-TONG.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE YAU MA TEI SPORTS DAY TO START AT 9 AM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) IN THE SHAM SHUI PO SPORTS GROUND AT THE JUNCTION OF CHEUNG SHA WAN ROAD AND HING WAH STREET.

- 0 ---------

/11

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER' 21,

1987

11 NEW TIDE TABLES NOW ON SALE » » * » *

THE ’’TIDE TABLES FOR HONG KONG 1988”, PREPARED BY* THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY, HAS BEEN PUBLISHED.

THE PUBLICATION IS NOW ON SALE AT |5 A COPY AT THE' GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, MARINE DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS AND THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY.

THE 16-PAGE BOOKLET, PRINTED IN BILINGUAL FORM, CONTAINS THE PREDICTED HEIGHTS AND TIMES OF DAILY HIGH AND LOW WATER LEVELS AT QUARRY BAY FOR NEXT YEAR.

TIDAL VALUES AT CHI MA WAN, KO LAU WAN, LOK ON PAI, TAI PO KAU, TSIM BBI TSUI AND WAGLAN ISLAND CAN ALSO BE DERIVED FROM INFORMATION GIVEN IN THE TABLES.

SHIPPING AND WHARFINQ COMPANIES, ENGINEERS, CONTAINER TERMINAL OPERATORS, DOCKYARDS, YACHTSMEN, FISHING AND WATER SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS MAY FIND THE PUBLICATION USEFUL.

-----0------

ROAD CLOSURE, URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTION ♦ * ♦ ♦ ♦

TUEN SHING STREET IN TUEN MUN WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC DAILY BETWEEN 1 AM AND 5.30 AM FROM TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 24) TO FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 27), TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FOOTBRIDGE.

FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY, THE SECTION OF GRANVILLE ROAD IN TSIM SHA TSUI, FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH SCIENCE MUSEUM ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 20 METRES SOUTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION, WILL BE MADE A 10 AM TO 9 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY.

THE MEASURE IS DESIGNED TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW. NO VEHICLE WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP WITHIN THE URBAN CLEARWAY FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS.

- - 0 ---------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

TRANSPORT SECRETARY TO OPEN NEW FLYOVER........................ 1

FLOATING RESTAURANT AMONG BUILDING PLANS APPROVED ............. J

WORKSHOP ON CIVIC RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITY ................... 4

MORE SPORTS FACILITIES IN THE PIPELINE FOR NORTH DISTRICT . 5

ELDERLY SHOULD MAINTAIN LINK WITH COMMUNITY ................... 6

COMMUNITY SUPPORT MAKES FESTIVAL A SUCCESS .................... 6

OIL INDUSTRY "PITCHES IN" TO KEEP ROADS CLEAN ................. 7

SCOUT ACTIVITIES HELP PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION ................. 8

CONCERT MARKS CLOSE OF YOUTH CHINESE MUSIC WEEK ............... 9

EXHIBITION TO AROUSE CONCERN FOR THE DISABLED ................ 10

ENTRIES INVITED FOR SHa TIN CUP SOCCER COMPETITION......... 10

FIGHT CRIME NIGHT IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT ....................... 11

COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS TRAFFIC PROPOSAL ........................ 11

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1987

TRANSPORT SECRETARY TO OPEN NEW FLYOVER

* « » » »

THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE CHEUNG SHA WAN SECTION OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 27).

THE $600 MILLION WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR PROJECT IS A HIGH CAPACITY ELEVATED ROAD LINKING GASCOIGNE ROAD WITH LAI CHI KOK ROAD NEAR MEI FOO.

ITS CONSTRUCTION IS DIVIDED INTO FOUR STAGES WITH THE CHEUNG SHA WAN SECTION BEING ITS THIRD. THE TOTAL LENGTH OF THE CORRIDOR WITH THE COMPLETION OF STAGE FOUR WILL BE ABOUT FIVE KILOMETRES.

THE 1.25 KILOMETRE CHEUNG SHA WAN SECTION RUNS FROM THE NORTHERN END OF THE CORRIDOR IN LAI CHI KOK ROAD NEAR MEI FOO TO THE EXISTING SECTION AT YEN CHOW STREET NEAR SHAM SHUI PO FERRY PIER.

THIS SECTION WILL BE OPEN TO TRAFFIC FROM 10 AM ON NOVEMBER 28.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT SAID: "THE OPENING OF THE CHEUNG SHA WAN SECTION WILL GREATLY IMPROVE TRAVELLING TIME BETWEEN SOUTH KOWLOON AND THE WESTERN NEW TERRITORIES.

"IT WILL ALSO IMPROVE TRAFFIC CONDITIONS ON THE GROUND LEVEL ROADS IN THE LAI CHI KOK AND SHAM SHUI PO AREAS.

"SOUTHBOUND MOTORISTS WILL BE ABLE TO TRAVEL FROM THE CORRIDOR’S NORTHERN END IN LAI CHI KOK ROAD NEAR MEI FOO TO TAI KOK TSUI, REACHING GROUND LEVEL AT TONG MEI ROAD NEAR MONG KOK ROAD.

"MOTORISTS GOING TO TSIM SHA TSUI CAN CONTINUE TO TRAVEL ON THE GROUND VIA FERRY STREET AND CANTON ROAD.

"THOSE GOING TO THE CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL AND EAST KOWLOON AREA CAN TRAVEL ALONG TONG MEI ROAD, FERRY STREET AND UP A RAM CONNECTING WITH THE EXISTING GASCOIGNE ROAD FLYOVER," HE SAID.

"NORTHBOUND MOTORISTS TRAVELLING FROM THE GASCOIGNE ROAD END OF THE CORRIDOR WILL REACH GROUND LEVEL AT FERRY STREET NEAR KANSU STREET.

"SHOULD THEY WANT TO HEAD NORTH, THEY TURN LEFT AT THE JUNCTION BETWEEN FERRY STREET AND CHERRY STREET, THEN GO UP A RAM LEADING TO THE CORRIDOR AT TAI KOK TSUI ROAD.

"FROM THERE, THE CORRIDOR RUNS ABOVE TAI KOK TSUI ROAD, AND TUNG CHAU STREET, LEADING MOTORISTS TO ITS NORTHERN END AT LAI CHI KOK ROAD," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

/THE CONSTRUCTION .......

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1987

- 2

THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR BEGAN WITH THE GASCOIGNE ROAD FLYOVER BEING ITS FIRST STAGE. IT WAS COMPLETED IN 1978 AT A COST OF $35 MILLION.

STAGE TWO WAS COMPLETED IN LATE 1982 AT A COST OF $140 MILLION. THIS SECTION EXTENDS FROM TAI KOK TSUI ROAD NEAR CHERRY STREET TO YEN CHOW STREET INCLUDING A SECTION IN TUNG CHAU STREET. ITS NORTHBOUND CARRIAGE WAS OPENED ON COMPLETION WHILE ITS SOUTHBOUND CARRIAGE WILL BE OPENED AT THE SAME TIME AS THE CHEUNG SHA WAN SECTION.

APART FROM THE CHEUNG SHA WAN SECTION, THE $160 MILLION STAGE THREE PROJECT ALSO INCLUDED THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN EXTENSION OF THE EXISTING SECTION ALONG TUNG CHAU STREET INTO TONG MEI ROAD; A PEDESTRIAN SUBWAY NEAR KIU KIANG STREET AND THE RECONSTRUCTION OF A SECTION OF LAI CHI KOK ROAD. CONSTRUCTION STARTED IN MARCH 1985 AND TOOK ABOUT 32 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.

STAGE FOUR WILL CONNECT GASCOIGNE ROAD FLYOVER WITH THE REST OF THE CORRIDOR.

IT WILL RUN FROM FERRY STREET NEAR KANSU STREET AND THEN DIVERGE INTO TWO CARRIAGEWAYS NEAR CHERRY STREET.

THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY WILL RUN ACROSS THE YAU MA TEI RECLAMATION AND JOIN THE EXISTING SECTION OF THE CORRIDOR AT TAI KOK TSUI ROAD.

THE SOUTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY WILL EXTEND FROM FERRY STREET TO TUNG CHAU STREET VIA TONG MEI ROAD.

THE TOTAL LENGTH OF THE STAGE FOUR SECTION IS ABOUT TWO KILOMETRES AND IT WILL COST ABOUT $200 MILLION. THE PROGRAMME FOR THIS STAGE IS NOW UNDER REVIEW.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, AND THE DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS, MR HAROLD BEATON, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE CHEUNG SHA WAN SECTION OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR AT 10.30 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 27).

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CEREMONY.

TRANSPORT WILL BE PROVIDED. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE REQUESTED TO ARRIVE AT THE PODIUM CAR PARK OF MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD BEFORE 9.30 AM ON NOVEMBER 27. INFORMATION OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

-------o ---------

/3........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1987

- 3

FLOATING RESTAURANT AMONG BUILDING PLANS APPROVED

* » » »

A FLOATING RESTAURANT IN SHA TIN WAS ONE OF THE NEW BUILDING PLANS APPROVED BY THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE IN SEPTEMBER.

IT IS TO BE SITUATED ON THE SHING MUN RIVER AND LINKED BY TWO BRIDGES WITH A 6,OOO-SQUARE-METRE SITE, NEAR THE JUNCTION OF TAI CHUNG KIU ROAD AND SIU LEK YUEN ROAD, WHICH WILL BE FOR USE AS A CAR PARK AND FOR LANDSCAPING PURPOSES.

THE RESTAURANT BUILDING IS A THREE-STOREY CONCRETE STRUCTURE.

A TOTAL OF 77 PLANS WERE APPROVED IN THE MONTH. OF THESE, 27 WERE FOR PROJECTS ON HONG KONG ISLAND, 21 IN KOWLOON AND 29 IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.

AMONG THE APPROVED PLANS WERE A SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT FOR HONG LOK YUEN IN TAI PO, AND A SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT ROOM FOR THE SHAW ORGANISATION IN SAI KUNG.

RESIDENTIAL AND APARTMENT/COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS AGAIN TOPPED THE LIST WITH 37 APPROVALS. OTHERS INCLUDED EIGHT FACTORY BUILDINGS -TWO IN TUEN MUN AND ONE EACH IN CHAI WAN, MONG KOK, KWAI CHUNG, SHA TIN, AND THE YUEN LONG AND TAI PO INDUSTRIAL ESTATES.

CONSENT TO START WORK WAS GIVEN FOR 49 PROJECTS. THE TOTAL FLOOR AREA WAS 319,800.7 SQUARE METRES, INCLUDING 245,697.4 SQUARE METRES FOR DOMESTIC PURPOSES AND 74,103.3 SQUARE METRES FOR NON-DOMESTIC PURPOSES.

THE TOTAL DECLARED COST OF NEW BUILDINGS COMPLETED IN SEPTEMBER WAS $705 MILLION, BRINGING THE TOTAL FOR THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF THE YEAR TO $6,879 BILLION.

DURING THE MONTH, THE OFFICE ISSUED 42 OCCUPATION PERMITS, INCLUDING 10 ON HONG KONG ISLAND, SIX IN KOWLOON AND 26 IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.

A TOTAL OF 28 DEMOLITION ORDERS AFFECTING 85 BUILDINGS WERE ISSUED.

THE CONTROL AND ENFORCEMENT DIVISION OF THE OFFICE RECEIVED 494 COMPLAINTS DURING THE MONTH, CARRIED OUT 736 INSPECTIONS AND ISSUED 72 REMOVAL ORDERS.

THE DANGEROUS BUILDINGS SECTION INSPECTED 358 BUILDINGS AND OBTAINED ONE CLOSURE ORDER.

--------0 ---------

A....

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22,

1987

WORKSHOP ON CIVIC RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITY

*****

A HALF-DAY WORKSHOP WHICH AIMS AT EXPLORING BETTER MEANS TO PROMOTE THE PUBLIC’S SENSE OF CIVIC RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES IN HONG KONG WILL BE HELD AT NEW WORLD HOTEL ON DECEMBER 5 (SATURDAY).

THE WORKSHOP IS ORGANISED BY THE COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION TO PROVIDE A FORUM FOR THE DISCUSSION OF THIS IMPORTANT SUBJECT, FOLLOWING THE FIRST TERRITORY-WIDE CONFERENCE ON CIVIC EDUCATION HELD IN FEBRUARY THIS YEAR.

PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION MR PETER TAM, WHO IS THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE MADE THE ANNOUNCEMENT TODAY (SUNDAY).

MR TAM POINTED OUT THAT THE OBJECTIVES OF THE WORKSHOP WERE TO STUDY, FROM DIFFERENT ANGLES, WAYS TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION IN THE CONTEXT OF HONG KONG AND TO SUSTAIN AND PROMOTE COMMUNITY INTEREST IN THE DRIVE.

IT WOULD PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR PEOPLE INVOLVED IN THE FIELD TO MEET ONE ANOTHER, EXCHANGE VIEWS AND SHARE EXPERIENCE ON PRACTICAL PROBLEMS RELATED TO THE PROMOTIONAL WORK AND ON WAYS TO SOLVE THEM.

ABOUT 100 PARTICIPANTS REPRESENTING A WIDE SPECTRUM OF THE COMMUNITY WILL BE INVITED TO TAKE PART IN THE WORKSHOP.

THEY WILL INCLUDE REPRESENTATIVES FROM CIVIC EDUCATION BODIES IN THE DISTRICTS, ORGANISERS OF CIVIC EDUCATION PROJECTS SPONSORED BY THE COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION SCHEME AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL SECTORS, AND OTHER BODIES THAT ORGANISED ACTIVITIES TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION.

”WE EXPECT THAT VIEWS AND SUGGESTIONS GENERATED FROM THE WORKSHOP WOULD PROVIDE A VALUABLE REFERENCE FOR OUR FUTURE WORK IN FORMULATING PROPOSALS ON HOW TO PROMOTE PEOPLE’S SENSE OF CIVIC RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES EFFECTIVELY,” MR TAM NOTED.

THE PROGRAMME OF THE WORKSHOP WILL INCLUDE GROUP DISCUSSION AND TWO PLENARY SESSIONS DURING WHICH TWO KEY-NOTE SPEECHES WILL BE DELIVERED BY DR DANIEL TSE AND MR S. L. WAN.

THEY WILL RESPECTIVELY SPEAK ON THE SUBJECT OF ’’PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND THE ADMINISTRATION OF HONG KONG” AND ’’IMPROVEMENT OF ENVIRONMENT” IN THE CONTEXT OF CIVIC RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES.

PARTICIPANTS OF THE WORKSHOP WILL BE DIVIDED INTO SUBGROUPS WITH EACH FOCUSING ON A SPECIFIC AREA FOR GROUP DISCUSSION AFTER THE PLENARY SESSION.

THE SECRETARY FOR DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION, MR DONALD LIAO, WILL OFFICIATE AND SPEAK AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE WORKSHOP AT 9 AM ON THAT DAY.

A CLOSING SPEECH FOR THE EVENT WILL BE DELIVERED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION, MRS RITA FAN.

------o------- /5...................

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1987

MORE SPORTS FACILITIES IN THE PIPELINE FOR NORTH DISTRICT

*****

MORE SPORTS FACILITIES WOULD BE AVAILABLE IN NORTH DISTRICT WHEN A tlOO-MILLION MULTI-PROJECT UNDERTAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT IS COMPLETED IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS, NORTH DISTRICT OFFICER, MR MATTHEW CHEUNG, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).

THE ENORMOUS DEVELOPMENT PROJECT WOULD FURTHER IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR RESIDENTS IN THE DISTRICT AND WAS A PROOF OF THE GOVERNMENT’S DETERMINATION TO DEVELOP THE FANLINO/SHEUNG SHUI NEW TOWN.

SPEAKING AT THE NORTH DISTRICT SECOND ATHLETIC MEET AT FUNG KAI SECONDARY SCHOOL, MR CHEUNG SAID THE PROJECTS INVOLVED WOULD BE LOCATED AT SITES ADJACENT TO THE TIN PING ESTATE OF THE FANLING/SHEUNG SHUI NEW TOWN.

"ONE OF THESE IS AN INDOOR RECREATION CENTRE WITH A MULTI-PURPOSE INDOOR STADIUM PROVIDING SUCH FACILITIES AS BASKETBALL, BADMINTON AND SQUASH COURTS, AND DANCING AND CHANGING ROOMS.

"THE CENTRE, COVERING AN AREA OF 8,300' SQUARE METRES, WILL COST 123 MILLION. WORK WILL START NEXT MONTH AND IS EXPECTED TO COMPLETE BY MID-1989," HE SAID.

THE REGIONAL COUNCIL WOULD BUILD A SPORTS COMPLEX NEXT TO THE CENTRE IN 1988-89, MR CHEUNG ADDED.

THE SPORTS COMPLEX WOULD HAVE A FULL-SIZE GRASSED SOCCER PITCH, AN EIGHT-LANE 400-METRE ALL-WEATHER RUNNING TRACK, A STAND FOR 2,600 SPECTATORS, EIGHT TENNIS COURTS AND FOUR BASKETBALL/VOLLEYBALL COURTS.

"TO MAXIMISE THE UTILISATION OF THE SPORTS COMPLEX, FLOOD-LIGHTING WILL BE PROVIDED, " MR CHEUNG SAID, ADDING THAT THE S55-MILLION PROJECT WOULD BE COMPLETED BY 1990-91.

IN LINE WITH THIS, A SWIMMING POOL COSTING *32 MILLION WOULD BE BUILT NEARBY.

TODAY’S EVENT WAS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE NORTH DISTRICT SPORTS ASSOCIATION AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL TO PROMOTE INTEREST IN SPORTS ACTIVITIES THROUGH COMPETITION.

/6..........

I, ‘

SUNDAY, KOVBMBER 22, 198?

ELDERLY SHOULD MAINTAIN LINK WITH COMMUNITY

*****

ELDERLY PEOPLE UNDER RESIDENTIAL CARE SHOULD CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN A CLOSE LINK WITH THE COMMUNITY BECAUSE THEY ARE STILL ITS IMPORTANT MEMBERS, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).

"HEALTH PERMITTING, THEY SHOULD PARTICIPATE IN THE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY THE HOMES TO KEEP IN CONTACT WITH THE SOCIETY," SHE SAID AT THE OPEN DAY OF THE MADAM WONG CHAN SOOK YING MEMORIAL CARE AND ATTENTION HOME FOR THE AGED OPERATED BY THE HONG KONG CHINESE WOMEN’S CLUB IN YAU TONG.

THEIR CHILDREN, MRS WONG SAID, SHOULD TAKE TIME TO VISIT THEM IN THE HOMES TO INDICATE THEIR FILIAL PIETY.

AS FOR THE HOMES FOR THE AGED, A VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES, BOTH INDOOR AND OUTDOOR, SHOULD BE ORGANISED FOR THE RESIDENTS TO MAKE THEIR DAILY LIFE MORE INTERESTING AND TO KEEP THEM INFORMED OF DEVELOPMENTS IN SOCIETY.

"MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC SHOULD CONTINUE TO PAY MORE ATTENTION TO WELFARE FOR THE ELDERLY," MRS WONG ADDED.

SHE COMMENDED THE HONG KONG CHINESE WOMEN’S CLUB FOR ITS CONTRIBUTIONS TO EDUCATION, CHILD WELFARE AND ELDERLY SERVICES.

------0 -------

COMMUNITY SUPPORT MAKES FESTIVAL A SUCCESS

***** %

MEMBERS OF THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD DEMONSTRATED THEIR CO-OPERATION AND TEAM SPIRIT IN A BASKETBALL MATCH AGAINST TVB STARS TODAY (SUNDAY).

THE CELEBRITY GAME WAS ONE OF THE TWO EXHIBITION MATCHES STAGED TO MARK THE CLOSING OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL ’87. SPECTATORS AT HIU-KWONG STREET INDOOR GAMES HALL ALSO WATCHED A DEMONSTRATION OF TOP BASKETBALL SKILL IN ANOTHER MATCH BETWEEN TWO Al DIVISION TEAMS.

ANOTHER HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY WAS A GO-KART RACE AT BAU NGA ROAD PLAYGROUND WHICH ATTRACTED HUNDREDS OF GO-KART ENTHUSIASTS.

/SPEAKING AT

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1987

SPEAKING AT* THE CLOSING CEREMONY, DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON), MR PAUL LEUNG, SAID RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES INVOLVING GROUP PARTICIPATION AND COMPETITION WOULD NOT ONLY HELP DEVELOP INDIVIDUAL POTENTIAL BUT ALSO PROMOTE A SENSE OF BELONGING AND CO-OPERATIVE SPIRIT AMONG THE PARTICIPANTS.

• » __________________________________________

"AND THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL ’87 HAS PRESENTED A WIDE RANGE OF SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS DURING THE PAST TWO WEEKS," MR LEUNG ADDED.

HE SAID THE SUPPORT GIVEN BY LOCAL DIGNITARIES AND ORGANISATIONS AND THE ACTIVE PARTICIPATION OF RESIDENTS IN THE PROGRAMMES HAD MADE THE FESTIVAL A SUCCESS.

ALSO ATTENDING THE CEREMONY WERE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDDY CHAN; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM HANG-FAI; VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL, MRS ELSIE TU; LEGCO MEMBER, MR POON CHI-FAI; PRESIDENT OF THE KWUN TONG SPORTS FESTIVAL ’87, MR TU SUN-SAY; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, MR RONNIE WONG.

-----0 --------

OIL INDUSTRY "PITCHES IN" TO KEEP ROADS CLEAN

* * * *

A MINI CAMPAIGN INTENDED TO PERSUADE MOTORISTS AND PASSENGERS NOT TO THROW LITTER FROM CARS HAS GAINED THE SUPPORT OF LEADING OIL COMPANIES.

A POSTER DESIGNED ALONG THE THEME "WE’RE PITCHING IN TO KEEP OUR ROADS CLEAN" IS NOW BEING DISPLAYED AT MAJOR FILLING STATIONS.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE JOINT URBAN COUNCIL/REGIONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE SAID THAT IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS, 138 PROSECUTIONS HAD BEEN TAKEN OUT AGAINST LITTERING FROM VEHICLES.

"SINCE THE NUMBER OF OFFENCES OF THIS NATURE IS STILL HIGH, IT IS IMPORTANT TO EDUCATE MOTORISTS AND PASSENGERS TO STAMP OUT THIS ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR OF THROWING RUBBISH OUT OF CAR WINDOWS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

THE OIL COMPANIES TAKING PART IN THE CAMPAIGN ARE CALTEX OIL HK LTD, THE SHELL CO. OF HK LTD, ESSO HK LTD AND MOBILE OIL HK LTD.

/THE POSTERS .......

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1987

THE POSTERS HAVE ALSO BEEN DISTRIBUTED TO VARIOUS PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES, VIA THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, FOR DISPLAY PURPOSES.

TO COINCIDE WITH THE PUBLICATION OF THE POSTER, REGIONAL COUNCILLORS AND STAFF OF THE REGIONAL SERVICES ^DEPARTMENT ARE PARTICIPATING IN A SCHEME WHEREBY THE REGISTRATION NUMBERS OF VEHICLES FROM WHICH RUBBISH IS SEEN BEING THROWN OUT OF WINDOWS ARE RECORDED, AND PROSECUTION ACTION TAKEN SUBSEQUENTLY.

THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT SO FAR THE SCHEME HAD PROVED TO BE EFFECTIVE AND HAD RESULTED IN A NUMBER OF SUCCESSFUL PROSECUTIONS.

HE ADDED THAT THE URBAN COUNCIL WAS CONSIDERING LAUNCHING A SIMILAR SCHEME IN THE URBAN AREA.

-----0------

SCOUT ACTIVITIES HELP PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION

*****

THE PARTICIPATION IN VARIOUS SOCIAL SERVICES AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES HAS ENABLED BOY SCOUTS TO REALISE THE IMPORTANCE OF CARING FOR THE SOCIETY AND HAS THUS HELPED TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION, SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR KEVIN HO, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE INAUGURATION CEREMONY OF OFFICE-BEARERS OF THE SCOUTS ASSOCIATION, SAI KUNG HANG HAU AND SAU MAU PING DISTRICTS OF EAST KOWLOON REGION, MR HO PRAISED THE WELL ORGANISED SCOUT ACTIVITIES IN THE TERRITORY WHICH HAD WON SUPPORT FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE.

’’PEOPLE WILL REMEMBER THE DIAMOND JUBILEE JAMBOREE AT TAI PO TSAI IN SAI KUNO LAST DECEMBER WHEN HUNDREDS OF SCOUTS FROM DIFFERENT DISTRICTS HAD THE CHANCE TO SHARE THEIR PRECIOUS EXPERIENCE,” HE SAID.

’’THE SCOUT DISTRICT OFFICES OF THE EAST KOWLOON REGION HAVE ALSO JOINED HANDS .IN ORGANISING VARIOUS FUNCTIONS. THEIR COMMON OBJECTIVE IS TO EXPAND THE SCOUT ORGANISATION AND TRAIN MORE SCOUT LEADERS,” MR HO SAID.

NOTING THAT THE POPULATION IN-TAKE FOR THE JUNK BAY NEW TOWN WAS EXPECTED TO START EARLY NEXT YEAR AND THAT BY MID-1988, ITS POPULATION WOULD REACH 25,000, MR HO SAID THE SCOUT DISTRICT OFFICE SHOULD ENCOURAGE YOUNGSTERS AND RESIDENTS OF DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS IN THE AREA TO TAKE PART IN SCOUT ACTIVITIES.

"THIS WILL NOT ONLY HELP TO DEVELOP THE SCOUT ORGANISATION BUT WILL ALSO STRENGTHEN RESIDENTS' SENSE OF BELONGING TOWARDS THEIR COMMUNITY," HE SAID.

-----0------

/9 .......

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1987

CONCERT MARKS CLOSE OF YOUTH CHINESE MUSIC WEEK

» » * »

A PUBLIC PERFORMANCE BY THE HONG KONG YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA OF THE MUSIC OFFICE WON APPLAUSE FROM A CAPACITY AUDIENCE AT THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL TONIGHT (SUNDAY).

THE OCCASION WAS THE GALA CONCERT MARKING THE CLOSE OF THE YOUTH CHINESE MUSIC WEEK, A HIGHLIGHT OF EVENTS HELD TO CELEBRATE THE MUSIC OFFICE’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY.

THE CONCERT ALSO FEATURED THREE GUEST MUSICIANS FROM CHINA -MR AN ZHISHUN (PERCUSSION), MR XIAO BAIYONG (ER-HU) AND MS FAN SHENGF (ZHENG).

THE PROGRAMME INCLUDED "LANTERN FESTIVAL" AND "ARRIVAL OF SPRING".

THE CLIMAX WAS A COMBINED PERFORMANCE OF "SOIREE AT THE PRAIRIES" BY THE YOUTH CHINESE ORCHESTRA, THE GUEST MUSICIANS AND THE MUSIC OFFICE’S INSTRUCTORS’ ENSEMBLE.

THE MUSIC OFFICE’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS WILL CONTINUE WITH THE YOUTH STRING WEEK FROM NOVEMBER 29 TO DECEMBER 6.

DURING THE WEEK, THERE WILL BE A SERIES OF PUBLIC PERFORMANCES. ON DECEMBER 1, A JING YING CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT WILL BE HELD AT SHA TIN TOWN HALL, STARTING AT 8 PM.

ANOTHER CONCERT, "AN EVENING OF STRING AND CHORAL MUSIC”, WILL BE STAGED AT THE CONCERT HALL, ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS, ON DECEMBER 5. IT WILL START AT 7.30 PM.

TICKETS FOR THE TWO CONCERTS, AT $5 AND $10, ARE AVAILABLE AT URBTIX OUTLETS AT CITY HALL, QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM, SPACE MUSEUM, HONG KONG COLISEUM, NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE, TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL. SHA TIN TOWN HALL, TUEN MUN TOWN HALL AND TOM LEE MUSIC CO. LTD (CAMERON LANE, MAN YEE BUILDING, TAIKOO SHING CITYPLAZA AND HENNESSY ROAD).

ENQUIRIES MAY BE MADE ON 5-283257

- 0 - -

/1O

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1987

- 10 -

EXHIBITION TO AROUSE CONCERN FOR THE DISABLED

♦ ♦ * * *

AN EXHIBITION TO INTRODUCE REHABILITATION SERVICES IN KWUN TONG IS HELD BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT REHABILITATION SERVICE JOINT FUNCTION COMMITTEE AT THE TELFORD GARDEN MAIN SQUARE TODAY (SUNDAY).

THE EXHIBITION IS AIMED AT ENHANCING RESIDENTS' UNDERSTANDING OF AND CONCERN FOR THE DISABLED THROUGH LEARNING MORE ABOUT REHABILITATION SERVICES IN THE DISTRICT.

THE JOINT FUNCTION COMMITTEE IS FORMED BY BOTH GOVERNMENT AND VOLUNTARY REHABILITATION SERVICE UNITS IN THE DISTRICT. THESE INCLUDED SHELTERED WORKSHOPS, WORK ACTIVITY CENTRES, HOSTELS FOR THE MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED, SOCIAL CENTRES, EARLY EDUCATION AND TRAINING CENTRES AND MEDICAL REHABILITATION CENTRES.

THE EXHIBITION IS SPONSORED BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD AND THE LIONESS CLUB OF HONG KONG ISLAND.

AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, DISABLED MEMBERS FROM PARTICIPATING AGENCIES PERFORMED IN A MUSICAL BAND, DRAMA AND LION DANCE.

-------0----------

ENTRIES INVITED FOR SHA TIN CUP SOCCER COMPETITION

♦ » » » *

FOOTBALLERS AGED 16 OR ABOVE ARE BEING INVITED TO FORM TEAMS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE SEVENTH SHA TIN CUP SOCCER COMPETITION TO BE HELD AT THE TSANG TAI UK PLAYGROUND ON JANUARY 31 NEXT YEAR.

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE SHA TIN SPORTS ASSOCIATION AND REGIONAL COUNCIL WITH THE HELP OF THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE, THE COMPETITION IS AIMED AT PROMOTING THE INTEREST IN FOOTBALL AND SPORTSMANSHIP AMONG RESIDENTS.

RESIDENTS OF SHA TIN, EXCEPT THOSE WHO ARB REGISTERED FOOTBALLERS OF THE HONG KONG FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION, ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE COMPETITION.

ENTRY FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE ENQUIRY COUNTER OF THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE, SHA TIN SPORTS ASSOCIATION, SHA TIN OFFICE OF THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, AND TSANG TAI UK PLAYGROUND OFFICE.

THE DEADLINE FOR ENTRY IS DECEMBER 1. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 0-6065669.

-----0------

/11

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1987

FIGHT CRIME NIGHT IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT

» » » «

THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A VARIETY SHOW ON DECEMBER 3 (THURSDAY) AT LEI TUNG COMMUNITY HALL ON AP LEI CHAU AS PART OF ITS ANTI-TRIAD CAMPAIGN.

THE VARIETY SHOW IS AIMED AT PUTTING ACROSS TO RESIDENTS, THROUGH ENTERTAINMENT, THE MESSAGE ON THE GRAVE CONSEQUENCES OF TRIAD INVOLVEMENT.

THE PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE AN ANTI-TRIAD DRAMA STAGED BY JUNIOR POLICE CALL MEMBERS AND PERFORMANCES BY POPULAR TV ARTISTS AND SINGERS.

SOUTHERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND THE SHOW. TICKETS FOR FREE ADMISSION ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE IN ABERDEEN CENTRE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES IN LEI TUNG ESTATE, WAH FU ESTATE AND STANLEY.

THEY MAY CALL 5-540271 FOR FURTHER DETAILS.

--------o----------

COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS TRAFFIC PROPOSAL

*****

THE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE OF THE YAU MA TEI DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET TOMORROW (MONDAY) TO DISCUSS A PROPOSAL PUT FORWARD BY AN AREA COMMITTEE MEMBER TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC CONDITION IN JORDAN ROAD NEAR NATHAN ROAD.

OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE INFORMATION PAPERS ON THE PROGRESS OF THE ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN AND THE REVISED BUDGET FOR THE DISTRICT BOARD.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE YAU MA TEI DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE MEETING TOMORROW (MONDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF YAU MA TEI DISTRICT OFFICE, SECOND FLOOR, 490 NATHAN ROAD. THE MEETING WILL START AT 2.30 PM.

--------o ---------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2J, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

HONG KONG DETERMINED TO ERADICATE DRUGS ................. 1

RECOMMENDATIONS ON MONITORING POWER COMPANIES ACCEPTED .... 2

SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE INVITES SUBMISSIONS ......... 5

ECVII'S TO BE REPATRIATED BY SEA ........................ 6

CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES FOR OCTOBER PUBLISHED ............ 7

IMPORTANCE OF HEARING CONSERVATION STRESSED ............ 10

COMMISSIONER INSPECTS WORK ON EASTERN HaRBOUR TUNNEL ... 11

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS SIGNBOARD CONTROL .............. 11

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS FUNDING FOR PROMOTING SPORTS... 12

REQUESTS FOR DB FUNDS UNDER STUDY .................... 13

MODERN LAUNDRY EQUIPMENT FOR TUEN MUN HOSPITAL.......... 13

WATER STORAGE FIGURE.................................... 13

WATER CUTS IN SHAM SHUT PO, CHAI WAN .................. 12*

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN WAN CHAI .............. 14

TEMPORARY LANE CLOSURES ON TAI PO ROAD ................. 14

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1987

HONG KONG DETERMINED TO ERADICATE DRUGS *****

THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT IS DETERMINED TO CONTINUE ITS DECLARED POLICY OF ERADICATING DRUG ABUSE AND DRUG TRAFFICKING FROM SOCIETY.

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, SAID THIS AT THE OPENING CEREMONY TODAY (MONDAY) OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS FOR THE PREVENTION OF DRUG AND SUBSTANCE ^BUSE.

NOTING THAT THE PROBLEMS OF DRUG TRAFFICKING AND DRUG ABUSE WERE GLOBAL ONES AND REQUIRED INTER-REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LIAISON AND CO-OPERATION, SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD MAINTAINED CLOSE LINKS WITH THE UNITED NATIONS AND ITS AGENCIES, INTERNATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT BODIES, AND NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS INVOLVED IN ANTI-DRUG WORK.

OBSERVING THAT NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS PLAYED AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN REDUCING THE DEMAND FOR ILLICIT DRUGS, SIR DAVID SAID THE PROBLEM OF DRUG ABUSE IN HONG KONG HAD BEEN GRADUALLY CONTAINED WITH THE SUPPORT AND CO-OPERATION OF VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND THE PUBLIC.

”IN THE PAST FIVE YEARS, THE NUMBER OF KNOWN AND ACTIVE ADDICTS HAS REMAINED FAIRLY STABLE AT 0.8 PER CENT OF THE POPULATION AGED 11 AND ABOVE.

“THE NUMBER OF NEW REGISTRATIONS ON OUR CENTRAL REGISTRY OF DRUG ABUSE HAS FALLEN FROM JUST UNDER 4,000 IN 1983 TO WELL UNDER 3,000 IN 1986: AND IN THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR, THERE HAS BEEN A FURTHER DECREASE OF OVER 10 PER CENT,” HE SAID.

THE NUMBER OF DRUG ADDICTS WHO VOLUNTEERED FOR TREATMENT HAD ALSO INCREASED BY 23 PER CENT IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1987 COMPARED TO THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR, SIR DAVID ADDED.

THE GOVERNOR SAID NO CAMPAIGN AGAINST DRUGS COULD BE SUCCESSFUL WITHOUT COMMUNITY SUPPORT, AND A FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE OF THE GOVERNMENT'S STRATEGY HAD BEEN TO ENLIST THE PARTICIPATION OF THE PUBLIC.

TO DO THIS, EDUCATIONAL, ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS PROGRAMMES WERE ORGANISED EACH YEAR WITH SUPPORT FROM THE DISTRICT BOARDS, DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEES, MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES, VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS, AS WELL AS THE MASS MEDIA.

THERE WERE ALSO COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT PROGRAMMES SUCH AS THE YOUTH AGAINST DRUGS SCHEME WHICH ENCOURAGED GROUPS OF YOUNG PEOPLE TO DESIGN AND PUT INTO EFFECT DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION PROJECTS WITH SUPPORT FROM THE GOVERNMENT; SEMINARS FOR PARENTS, SOCIAL WORKERS AND SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIONS; AND FAMILY CAMPS.

/SIR DAVID

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2J, 198?

SIR DAVID SAID THE FIVE-DAY EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY FOR THE EXCHANGE WORKING EXPERIENCE AND GREATLY ASSIST CO-OPERATION IN THE FIGHT AGAINST DRUG

CONFERENCE WOULD OF IDEAS, RESEARCH THE PROCESS OF

ABUSE.

PROVIDE AN FINDINGS AND INTERNATIONAL

HE ALSO HOPED THAT THE CONFERENCE WOULD PASS ON TO THE WORLD THIS IMPORTANT MESSAGE - "TO PROTECT OUR FAMILIES, OUR LIVES AND OUR CHILDREN FROM THE MENACE OF DRUG ABUSE, WE NEED ACTIVE SUPPORT AND CLOSE CO-OPERATION FROM THE WHOLE COMMUNITY.’’

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RECOMMENDATIONS ON MONITORING POWER COMPANIES ACCEPTED * ♦ » ♦ *

THE WORKING PARTY ON THE MONITORING OF THE POWER COMPANIES HAS ACCEPTED A TOTAL OF 17 RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY INDEPENDENT CONSULTANTS COMMISSIONED IN AUGUST 1983 TO EXAMINE THE GOVERNMENT’S ARRANGEMENTS FOR MONITORING THE POWER COMPANIES, THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MRS ANSON CHAN, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

RELEASING THE FINDINGS OF THE WORKING PARTY SET UP TN OCTOBER 1985 TO CONSIDER THE CONSULTANTS’ RECOMMENDATIONS, MRS CHAN POINTED OUT THAT FIVE OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS PUT FORWARD BY THE CONSULTANTS ARE ALREADY THE PRESENT PRACTICE. THESE WILL CONTINUE TO BE INCLUDED IN THE NORMAL MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS.

SHE NOTED THAT THE CONSULTANTS, MESSRS ERNST AND WHINNEY (EW), SUBMITTED A REPORT WHICH WAS PUBLISHED IN MARCH 1985 IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE. THE CONSULTANTS HAD SPECIFICALLY REASSURED GOVERNMENT THAT ITS MONITORING OF THE POWER COMPANIES WAS BOTH ADEQUATE AND APPROPRIATE, GIVEN THE EMPHASIS ON ENSURING A RELIABLE SUPPLY OF ELECTRICITY AT A COST THAT WAS COMPARABLE WITH THE COST OF ELECTRICITY IN OTHER PLACES IN THE REGION.

’’WHILST THE CONSULTANTS’ REPORT CONSTITUTED AN INDEPENDENT ENDORSEMENT OF THE EXISTING MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS, EW ALSO OFFERED A NUMBER OF RECOMMENDATIONS ON HOW THE OPERATIONAL ASPECTS OF THE MONITORING SYSTEM COULD BE IMPROVED. THE ACCEPTANCE RECOMMENDATIONS SHOULD NOW PROVIDE AN ADDITIONAL MEASURE REASSURANCE TO THE PUBLIC THAT GOVERNMENT IS MAKING A POSITIVE COMMITMENT TO FURTHER IMPROVE THE MONITORING OF THE POWER COMPANIES, MRS CHAN SAID.

/SHE RECALLED

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2J, 1987

SHE RECALLED THAT THE DECISION TO APPOINT THE CONSULTANTS WAS TAKEN A FEW YEARS AGO AGAINST A BACKGROUND OF CONCERN FOR INCREASED ELECTRICITY TARIFFS. IN VIEW OF THE CONCERN EXPRESSED, THE GOVERNMENT ACCEPTED THAT THERE MIGHT BE SCOPE FOR AN INDEPENDENT REVIEW TO BE DONE, HOWEVER MUCH THE GOVERNMENT MIGHT BELIEVE IN THE ADEQUACY OF THE EXISTING ARRANGEMENTS.

AFTER CONDUCTING AN INDEPENDENT REVIEW OF THE EXISTING ARRANGEMENTS, EW CONCLUDED THAT THE MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS IN THE PAST HAD BEEN SUITABLE AND THAT THE CURRENT EVOLUTIONARY STATUS OF THE MONITORING PROCESS WAS A NEEDED AND PROPER RESPONSE TO CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES.

ON INDIVIDUAL MONITORING ACTIVITIES, EW CONSIDERED THAT THE ANNUAL REVIEW PROCESS HAD BEEN COMPREHENSIVE AND HAD FULFILLED THE REQUIREMENTS SET FORTH IN THE SCHEME OF CONTROL AGREEMENTS; AND THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMISSIONING OF TECHNICAL CONSULTANTS HAD ADEQUATELY FULFILLED THE MONITORING REQUIREMENTS IN RELATION TO SYSTEM PLANNING.

"THESE CONCLUSIONS HAVE REASSURED US WHAT IS BEING DONE BY WAY OF MONITORING IS ADEQUATE AND APPROPRIATE," MRS CHAN SAID. "GOVERNMENT, HOWEVER, IN A CONTINUING PROCESS TO SEEK IMPROVEMENTS TO THE MONITORING SYSTEM, HAS ALSO LOOKED TO THE CONSULTANTS FOR SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT. IN RESPONSE, EW HAVE PUT FORWARD RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE VARIOUS OPERATIONAL ASPECTS OF THE MONITORING PROCESS.

"IN CONSIDERING THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE CONSULTANTS RECOMMENDATION SHOULD BE IMPLEMENTED THE WORKING PARTY ON THE MONITORING OF THE POWER COMPANIES DEEMED IT IMPORTANT TO ENSURE THAT THE BENEFITS TO CONSUMERS ARE COMMENSURATE WITH THE COST OF MAKING THE IMPROVEMENTS."

MRS CHAN NOTED THAT ON THIS BASIS, THE WORKING PARTY HAD DECIDED TO ACCEPT, TO A LARGE EXTENT, THE CONSULTANTS’ 17 RECOMMENDATIONS COVERING SIX OPERATIONAL ASPECTS INCLUDING MONITORING ORGANISATION, LOAD FORECASTING, FUEL PROCUREMENT, PROCUREMENT OF MAJOR EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES, AFFILIATED COMPANY TRANSACTIONS AND PROVISION OF INFORMATION BY POWER COMPANIES.

/THE WORKING ........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1987

THE WORKING PARTY’S SPECIFIC PROPOSALS ARE:-

* THE PRESENT MONITORING ORGANISATION SHOULD BE RETAINED, BUT MORE DETAILED WRITTEN PROCEDURES ON THE EXISTING MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS SHOULD BE PROMULGATED. THE MONITORING UNITS SHOULD EVALUATE THEIR STAFF REQUIREMENTS AFTER THE PROPOSALS FOR IMPROVING THE MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED FOR A PERIOD OF TIME.

» THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD MONITOR THE LOAD FORECASTS PROVIDED BY THE POWER COMPANIES BY DEVELOPING PARALLEL FORECASTS FOR PURPOSES OF COMPARISON AND/OR CONDUCTING A METHODOLOGICAL REVIEW OF THE FORECASTS. THESE FORECASTS SHOULD

CONTINUE TO BE REVIEWED BY THE GOVERNMENT AT SUITABLE INTERVALS.

» FOR FUEL PROCUREMENT, POWER COMPANIES SHOULD CONTINUE TO SUBMIT INFORMATION ON FUEL PROCUREMENT TO THE GOVERNMENT. FOR THE PURPOSE OF REASSURING THE PUBLIC, THE ADMINISTRATION SHOULD CONDUCT SPOT CHECKS ON INDIVIDUAL TRANSACTIONS AND ALSO REVIEW THE COMPANIES' FUEL PROCUREMENT POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES.

* CONCURRENTLY, THERE SHOULD BE SIMILAR REVIEWS ON PROCUREMENT OF MAJOR EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES WHICH COST $500,000 OR ABOVE PER CONTRACT. THE ADMINISTRATION SHOULD, IN ADDITION, CONDUCT RANDOM CHECKING ON INDIVIDUAL TRANSACTIONS.

» THE PROVISION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF INFORMATION ON THE PRINCIPLES AND BASIS OF CHARGES ON AFFILIATED COMPANY TRANSACTIONS SHOULD BE MADE A FORMAL REQUIREMENT. THE POWER COMPANIES SHOULD SEEK THE GOVERNMENT’S VIEW ON ANY CHANGE IN THE PRINCIPLES AND BASIS OF CHARGES TOWARDS INTER-COMPANY TRANSACTIONS, AS LAID DOWN IN THE INTER-COMPANY AGREEMENTS. RANDOM CHECKING ON AFFILIATED COMPANY TRANSACTIONS SHOULD BE CONDUCTED. MONITORING OF MAJOR TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING COMPANIES’ DIRECTORS SHOULD CONTINUE.

» ON PROVISION OF INFORMATION BY POWER COMPANIES, THE NEXT REVIEW OF THE SCHEME OF CONTROL AGREEMENTS IN 1988 SHOULD CONSIDER THE DIFFERENCES IN THE ACCOUNTING POLICY FOLLOWED BY THE POWER COMPANIES AS WELL AS THE PARTICULAR ACCOUNTING POLICY ON PROFITS AND LOSSES ON DISPOSAL OF FIXED ASSETS. "FUNCTIONALISATION" OF COSTS WILL CONTINUE TO BE ADOPTED. ON A POINT OF PRESENTATION, THE GOVERNMENT WILL PURSURE WITH THE POWER COMPANIES TO WHAT EXTENT THE CONTENTS AND FORMAT OF THEIR SUBMISSIONS CAN BE STANDARDISED.

/THE CONSULTANTS' ........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2J, 198?

5 -

THE CONSULTANTS' RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE ASSIGNMENT OF THE RESPECTIVE MONITORING RESPONSIBILITIES; REGULAR REVIEW OF THE LOAD FORECASTSp SUBMISSION OF BREAKDOWNS OF FUEL EXPENDITURE BY THE POWER COMPANIES; "FUNCTIONALISATION" OF COSTS IN THE COMPANIES' ACCOUNTS AND MONITORING OF TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING COMPANIES’ DIRECTORS ARE ALREADY THE PRESENT PRACTICE UNDER THE MO1N1TORING ARRANGEMENTS. THE REMAINING PROPOSALS WILL BE FORMALLY PUT TO THE POWER COMPANIES WHICMI WILL BE ASKED TO MEET THE PROPOSED REQUIREMENTS.

MRS CHAN SAID THAT THE WORKING PARTY’S REPORT HAD BEEN PUT TO THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL. THE ADMINISTRATION HAD ALSO DISCUSSED THE PROPOSALS FOR IMPROVEMENT WITH THE OMELCO STANDING PANEL ON PUBLIC UTILITIES.

THE GOVERNMENT’S MONITORING ACTIVITIES ARE CURRENTLY CARRIED OUT BY FOUR UNITS, NAMELY: THE FINANCIAL MONITORING UNIT OF THE ECONOMIC SERVICES BRANCH WHICH IS RESPONSIBLE FOR FINANCIAL MONITORING; THE ECONOMIC ANALYSIS DIVISION OF THE ECONOMIC SERVICES BRANCH WHICH MAKES ECONOMIC EVALUATION SUCH AS ASSESSMENT OF ELECTRICITY DEMAND; THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT WHICH PROVIDES TECHNICAL INPUT ON THE ENGINEERING ASPECT; AND THE ECONOMIC SERVICES DIVISION OF THE ECONOMIC SERVICES BRANCH WHICH CO-ORDINATES THE OVERALL MONITORING PROCESS.

THE CONSULTANTS SAW NO INHERENT REASON TO MODIFY THE PRESENT MONITORING STRUCTURE.

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SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE INVITES SUBMISSIONS ’ « » ♦ » »

THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE ANNOUNCED TODAY (MONDAY) THAT SUBMISSIONS FROM INTERESTED PARTIES AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ON THE AREA OF WORK TO BE COVERED BY THE COMMITTEE ARE BEING INVITED.

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE, MR IAN HAY DAVISON SAID: "WE WILL BE WRITING TO THE MEMBERS OF THE STOCK EXCHANGE AND THE FUTURES EXCHANGE, THE HONG KONG STOCKBROKERS ASSOCIATION, THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF BANKS AND THE HONG KONG UNIT TRUSTS ASSOCIATION AND OTHER INTERESTED ORGANISATIONS TO INVITE THF1R VIEWS AND COMMENTS ON THE AREA OF OUR WORK. WE WOULD ALSO WELCOME VIEWS AND COMMENTS FROM OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES AND I HE GENERAL PUBLIC.”

MR DAVISON STRESSED THAT THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW WAS TO EXAMINE CRITICALLY THE RELEVANT STRUCTURES AND SYSTEMS TO BUILD A BLUEPRINT FOR THE FUTURE AND NOT TO ALLOCATE BLAME OR FIND FAULT FOR PAST EVENTS.

/"ALL SUBMISSIONS

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2J, 198?

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’’ALL SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED AND CONSIDERED. THEY WILL BE USED SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE COMMITTEE AND WILL BE TREATED IN STRICT CONFIDENCE. AFTER ALL THE SUBMISSIONS ARE ilN, THE COMMITTEE MAY WISH TO INVITE SOME OF THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE MADE SUBMISSIONS TO ENLARGE ON THEIR VIEWS IN WRITING OR TO ATTEND BEFORE THE COMMITTEE TO GIVE THEIR VIEWS ORALLY," HE ADDED.

IN VIEW OF THE COMMITTEE’S TIGHT TIME SCHEDULE, THE SUBMISSIONS SHOULD REACH THE COMMITTEE RY DECEMBER 25, 1987.

SUBMISSIONS MAY BE ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY, SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE, ROOM 148, GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, HONG KONG.

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, ECVll’S TO BE REPATRIATED BY SEA * » » » »

‘ * SOME 500 EX-CHINA VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS (ECVll’S) FROM GUANGXI PROVINCE IN CHINA ARE TO BE REPATRIATED BY SEA ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 26).

A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (MONDAY) THE FERRY, LO SHAN, HAI) BEEN CHARTERED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO TRANSPORT MORE THAN 1,600 ECVll’S FROM HONG KONG TO BE1HAI IN FOUR SEA JOURNEYS.

THE SEA PASSAGE WAS ANOTHER MEANS OF REPATRIATION TO CHINA FOR THE 7 000 ECVll’S WHO ENTERED THE TERRITORY ILLEGALLY IN JULY AND AUGUST BECAUSE OF UNFOUNDED RUMOURS OF INCREASED RESETTLEMENT FROM HONG KONG. MORE THAN 5,000 OF THE ECVll’S HAVE ALREADY BEEN REPATRIATED BY LAND TO GUANGDONG.

THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT AT PRESENT THERE WERE SOME 2,300 ECVll’S STILL IN THE TERRITORY. OF THESE, 1,600 HAVE PEEN CONFIRMED BY THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES FOR REPATRIATION TO GUANGXI. IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT THE REMAINING 700 WILL BE REPATRIATED TO CHINA BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR.

HE ADDED THAT THE SCHEDULE FOR VOYAGES WAS SUBJECT TO WEATHER CONDITIONS.

THE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM GUANGXI WILL BE TRANSPORTED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FROM THE HOI TAI DETENTION CENTRE IN TUEN MUN TO THE LOK ON PAI DESALTER PIER ON THURSDAY AFTERNOON WHERE THEY WILL BOARD THE LO SHAN. THEY ARE EXPECTED TO REACH BEIHAI EARLY ON NOVEMBER 28 (SATURDAY).

/THROUGHOUT THE

MONDAY, N0VQ4BER 23, 1987

THROUGHOUT THE VOYAGE, THE LO SHAN WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY A TUG BOAT FOR SAFETY REASONS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

FACILITIES WILL BE PROVIDED FOR THE MEDIA AT THE LOK ON PAI DESALTER PIER FROM 6 PM WHEN THE ECVII’S BEGIN BOARDING. SECURITY BRANCH OFFICIALS WILL BE ON HAND TO BRIEF THE MEDIA. THE LO SHAN IS EXPECTED TO DEPART AT 8 PM. FULL DETAILS OF FACILITIES WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER.

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CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES FOR OCTOBER PUBLISHED t t t * »

THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) PUBLISHED THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES FOR OCTOBER 1987.

THE CPI(A) AND CPI(B) (OCTOBER 84/SEPTEMBER 85 = 100) FOR OCTOBER 1987 WERE 111.5 AND 111.6 RESPECTIVELY, REPRESENTING INCREASES OF 6.4 PER CENT AND 6 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY OVER OCTOBER 1986 .

COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1987 AND BEARING IN MIND THAT THIS COMPARISON MAY BE AFFECTED BY SEASONAL FACTORS, THE CPI(A) AND CPI(B) BOTH INCREASED BY 0.7 PER CENT.

THE AVERAGE CPI(A) AND AVERAGE CPI(B) FOR THE 12 MONTHS AND ENDED OCTOBER 1987, AT 108.1 AND 108.4 RESPECTIVELY, WERE 5 PER CENT 4.9 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY HIGHER THAN THE AVERAGE FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 1986.

DURING THE THREE-MONTH PERIOD ENDED OCTOBER 1987, THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED CPI(A) INCREASED AT AN AVERAGE RATE OF 0.7 PER CENT PER MONTH, AND THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED CPI(B), AT 0.6 PER CENT PER MONTH.

DURING OCTOBER, SCHOOL FEES, RETAIL PRICES OF FRESH FRUIT AND CHARGES FOR MEALS IN RESTAURANTS AND OTHER EATING PLACES INCREASED. ON THE OTHER HAND, RETAIL PRICES OF SALT-WATER FISH DECREASED.

/THE CPI(A)

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

THE CPI(A) AND THE CPT(B) ARE BASED ON THE EXPENDITURE PATTERNS OF 50 PER CENT AND 30 PER CENT, RESPECTIVELY, OF URBAN HOUSEHOLDS IN HONG KONG, WHICH WERE DERIVED FROM THE 198'4/85 ,

HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE SURVEY. THE CPI(A) REFERS TO HOUSEHOLDS

SPENDING BETWEEN $2,000 AND $6,499 A MONTH AT THAT TIME AND THE CPI(B) BETWEEN $6,500 AND $9,999 A MONTH. ’ >

CHANGES IN THE INDEXES FOR OCTOBER 1987 IN RESPECT OF THE NINE COMMODITY/SERv'lCE SECTIONS IN THE TWO CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES, AS COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1987 AND OCTOBER 1986, ARE GIVEN BELOW.

(OCTOBER 1984 TO SEPTEMBER 1985 AVERAGE = 100)

CPI(A) • CPI(B)

INDEX FOR % CHANGE OVER % CHANGE OVER INDEX % FOR CHANGE OVER % CHANGE OVER

SECTION OCT.87 SEP.87 OCT.86 OCT.87 SEP.87 OCT.86

1 —————— ———————— — ■ ——————— —————— —- ——————— ————————

1 / FOODSTUFFS i 108.7 + 0.5 + 6.8 109.3 + 0.6 + 6.9

HOUSING FUEL AND 111.2 + 0.1 + 4.3 108.5 + 0.1 + 2.9

LIGHT ALCOHOLIC ’ DRINKS AND ( TOBACCO (FOR HOME 92.6 + 0.0* + 3.8 93.2 + 0.0* + 3.7 i

CONSUMPTION) CLOTHING AND 116.8 -0. 1 + 6.2 117.2 -0.1 + 6.8

FOOTWEAR 113.9 + 0.6 + 4.0 115.6 + 0.7 + 4.4

DURABLE GOODS MISCELLANEOUS 113.1 + 0.3 + 5.0 112.3 + 0.4 + 5.1

GOODS TRANSPORT AND 117.8 + 0.1 + 10.1 117.8 + 0.0* + 9.5

VEHICLES 117.0 + 0.6 + 9. 1 115.9 + 0.7 + 8.8

SERVICES 120.7 + 3.3 + 6.4 120.0 + 2.9 +6.7

ALL ITEMS e 111.5 t + 0.7 LESS THAN 0 + 6.4 .05 PER • • 111.6 CENT • /COMPARED + 0.7 WITH + 6.0

MONDAY, NOVEMEBER 23, 1987

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COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1987, THE INDEX FOR FOODSTUFFS INCREASED BY 0.5 PER CENT IN CPI(A) AND BY 0.6 PER CENT IN CPI(B).

THIS WAS MAINLY DUE TO INCREASES IN THE AVERAGE RETAIL PRICES OF FRESH FRUIT, PORK, FRESH-WATER FISH AND LIVE POULTRY AND IN , THE AVERAGE CHARGE FOR MEALS IN RESTAURANTS AND OTHER EATING PLACES, WHICH MORE THAN OFFSET THE DECREASE IN THE AVERAGE RETAIL PRICE OF SALT-WATER FISH.

THE EFFECT OF MOVEMENTS IN THE RETAIL PRICES OF OTHER FOOD ITEMS ON THE INDEX FOR FOODSTUFFS WAS INSIGNIFICANT.

THE INDEX FOR CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR INCREASED BY 0.6 PER CENT IN CPI(A) AND BY 0.7 PER CENT IN CPI(B) DUE TO HIGHER PRICES OF MEN’S AND WOMEN’S FOOTWEAR.

THE INDEX FOR TRANSPORT AND VEHICLES INCREASED BY 0.6 PER CENT IN CPI(A) AND BY 0.7 PER CENT IN CPI(B) AS A RESULT OF HIGHER PUBLIC LIGHT BUS AND SCHOOL BUS FARES.

THE INDEX FOR SERVICES INCREASED BY 3.3 PER CENT IN CPI(A) AND BY 2.9 PER CENT IN CPI(B) DUE TO HIGHER SCHOOL FEES.

PRICE MOVEMENTS IN OTHER SECTIONS OF THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES WERE INSIGNIFICANT.

FIGURES IN THIS PRESS RELEASE REFER TO CPI SERIES NOT SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED. ALL PERCENTAGE CHANGES ARE DERIVED FROM CPI FIGURES TAKEN TO MORE THAN ONE DECIMAL PLACE.

MORE DETAILS ARE GIVEN IN THE "CONSUMER PRICE INDEX REPORT” FOR OCTOBER 1987, WHICH IS AVAILABLE AT $3.50 PER COPY FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, HONG KONG; OR FROM THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19/F., WANCHAI TOWER 1, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG; OR FROM THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG FOR LOCAL AND OVERSEAS MAILINGS.

ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE INDEXES MAY BE MADE TO THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON 5-8235089.

THE HANG SENG CPI WAS 115.1 TN OCTOBER 1987, UP BY 0.7 PER CENT OVER SEPTEMBER 1987 AND UP BY 7 PER CENT OVER OCTOBER 1986.

THE HANG SENG CPI IS BASED ON THE EXPENDITURE PATTERN OF THE 10 PER CENT OF URBAN HOUSEHOLDS IN HONG KONG THAT SPENT $IO,OOO-$24,999 A MONTH DURING THE 1984/85 HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE SURVEY.

FURTHER DETAILS REGARDING THIS INDEX ARE INCLUDED TN THE HANG SENG CPI REPORT ISSUED BY THE ECONOMIC RESEARCH DEPARTMENT OF HANG SENG BANK LTD.

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1987

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IMPORTANCE OF HEARING CONSERVATION STRESSED

» ♦ ♦ ♦ »

THE CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, MR YIP YUK-LUN,. TODAY *(MONDAY) STRESSED THE NEED FOR A WELL-ORGANISED WEARING CONSERVATION PROGRAMME TO MAKE WORKERS AWARE OF THE TYPE OF HARM THAT EXCESSIVE NOISE CAN DO TO THEIR HEARING.

SPEAKING AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE ORGANISED BY THE ZONTA CLUB OF HONG KONG TO LAUNCH A PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN AGAINST HEAVY NOISE IN FACTORIES, MR YIP WARNED THAT PEOPLE COULD ACTUALLY BECOME DEAF AS A RESULT OF PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO EXCESSIVE NOISE.

HE SAID THAT ALTHOUGH WORKERS KNEW THAT THEY HAD A DUTY TO MAKE FULL USE OF HEARING PROTECTORS, THEY HOWEVER HAD ACQUIRED A HABIT OF KEEPING THE EQUIPMENT HANDY AND WOULD ONLY WEAR THEM DURING INSPECTION BY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY OR BY THE MANAGEMENT.

"I THINK THE ROOT OF THIS PROBLEM IS THAT THERE IS A LACK OF UNDERSTANDING ON THE PART OF THE MAJORITY OF WORKERS ON WHAT THE SO-CALLED ’INVISIBLE HAZARD’ CAN DO TO THEIR HEARING," HE SAID.

• I

"SOME EVEN CONCEIVE THE PARADOXICAL CONCEPT THAT LOSS OF HEARING IS ONLY TEMPORARY AND ONCE THEY ARE AWAY FROM THE NOISY ENVIRONMENT, THE ABILITY TO HEAR WILL FULLY COME BACK.

"THUS, HEARING DAMAGE DOES NOT SEEM TO RECEIVE THE SAME DEGREE OF RECOGNITION AS OTHER INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS SUCH AS INJURIES BY DANGEROUS MACHINERY OR PERSONS FALLING FROM HEIGHT."

MR YIP CALLED FOR THE CO-OPERATION AND SUPPORT OF EMPLOYERS TO HELP MAKE THEIR WORKERS UNDERSTAND AND APPRECIATE THE HAZARD CAUSED BY EXCESSIVE NOISE AND TO BRIEF AND TRAIN THEM ON THE VARIOUS WAYS OR MEANS TO PROTECT THEIR HEARING.

IN ADDITION, HE SAID, EMPLOYERS SHOULD REDUCE THE LEVEL OF NOISE IN THE WORK ENVIRONMENT OR PROVIDE APPROPRIATE HEARING PROTECTION EQUIPMENT FOR WORKERS.

THE CAMPAIGN, LASTING UNTIL FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 27), AIMS TO DRIVE HOME THE MESSAGE TO FACTORY MANAGEMENTS AND WORKERS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF NOISE ABATEMENT IN FACTORIES.

DURING THIS PERIOD, "SAFETY AMBASSADORS" WILL BE VISITING FACTORIES IN KWUN TONG, SAN PO KONG, SHAM SHUI PO, KWAI CHUNG AND TSUEN WAN TO CARRY OUT HEARING CHECKS FOR WORKERS AND TO DISTRIBUTE PAMPHLETS.

REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE SOCIETY FOR THE DEAF AND THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE DIVISION OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL ALSO BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

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MONDAY, NOVMEBER 23, 1987

COMMISSIONER INSPECTS WORK ON EASTERN HARBOUR TUNNEL

» » » » »

THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR TONY HAMMOND, LOOKED AT THE LATEST DEVELOPMENT OF THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING PROJECT THIS (MONDAY) AFTERNOON.

AT THE SITE OFFICE IN CHA KWO LING, MR HAMMOND WAS BRIEFED BY THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE NEW HONG KONG TUNNEL CO. LTD, MR'Y. MATSUMOTO, AND THE CONSTRUCT I ON DIRECTOR OF THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING PROJECT MANAGEMENT CO. LTD, MR R.J. BLACK. .

HE WAS INFORMED THAT THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING PROJECT, A COMMERCIAL VENTURE BEING UNDERTAKEN BY THE NEW HONG KONG TUNNEL CONSORTIUM, WAS DESIGNED TO LINK QUARRY BAY ON HONG KONG ISLAND AND CHA KWO LING IN KOWLOON BY MEANS OF AN IMMERSED TWIN-TUBE CROSSING INCORPORATING BOTH ROAD AND RAIL (MTR) LINKS. WORK ON THE PROJECT STARTED LAST YEAR AND WAS SCHEDULED TO BE COMPLETED BY 1990.

THE PARTY THEN PROCEEDED TO A VANTAGE POINT IN CHA KWO LING QUARRY WHERE THEY HAD A PANORAMIC VIEW OF THE TUNNEL SITE.

LATER, MR HAMMOND WAS TAKEN ON A TOUR OF THE LAM TIN STATION, THE HARD ROCK TUNNEL AND THE CHA KWO LING DRY DOCK, ALL OF WHICH FORMED PART OF THE $3.4 BILLION PROJECT.

DURING THE TOUR, THE COMMISSIONER ALSO ENQUIRED ABOUT THE SAFETY, HEALTH AND WELFARE ASPECTS OF THE 1,800 WORKERS ENGAGED IN THE PROJECT.

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DR COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS SIGNBOARD CONTROL ♦ » ♦ ♦ ♦

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS REGARDING A REVIEW OF CONTROLS OVER ADVERTISING SIGNS WILL BE EXPLAINED TO A MEETING OF THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE TOMORROW (TUESDAY).

THE REVIEW WAS CONDUCTED BY A WORKING GROUP FORMED UNDER THE LANDS AND WORKS BRANCH TO LOOK INTO VARIOUS MATTERS CONCERNING SIGNBOARDS, INCLUDING PROCEDURES FOR REMOVING OBSCENE OR INDECENT SIGNS.

THE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO DISCUSS NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS CONCERNING THE OPENING OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR STAGE III, SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 28). THIS STAGE CONSISTS OF TWO SECTIONS BETWEEN CHEUNG MOU STREET AND YUEN CHOW STREET, AND BETWEEN MAPLE STREET AND BUTE STREET.

/1’HE west...........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2?, 1987 *

- 12 -

THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR IS A PRIMARY DISTRIBUTOR ROAD LINKING YAU MA TEI AND LAI CHI KOK.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO REVIEW PROGRESS MADE BY VARIOUS WORKING GROUPS INCLUDING THOSE DEALING WITH OLD BUILDINGS, DRAINAGE PROBLEMS, SPECIAL TRANSPORT MATTERS AND THE BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT AT NELSON STREET MTR ENTRANCE AREA.

J — — — — — — —

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING TO BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM, MONG KOK DISTRICT OFFICE, 157 PRINCE EDWARD ROAD.

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DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS FUNDING FOR

» * ♦ * ♦

PROMOTING SPORTS

THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD’S CULTURE AND SPORTS COMMITTEE WILL MEET ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 25) MORNING TO DISCUSS THE SHA TIN SPORTS ASSOCIATION’S APPLICATION FOR FUNDS TO ORGANISE A BASEBALL PROMOTION SCHEME. THE AMOUNT INVOLVED IS ABOUT $10,000.

UNDER THE SCHEME, THE ASSOCIATION WILL SELECT PARTICIPANTS TO FORM A BASEBALL TEAM AFTER THEY HAVE COMPLETED A COURSE.

THE MEETING WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE FINANCIAL POSITION AND PROGRESS OF DB SPONSORED ACTIVITIES AS WELL AS PROGRESS REPORTS FROM THE SHA TIN ARTS AND SPORTS ASSOCIATIONS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD’S CULTURE AND SPORTS COMMITTEE MEETING, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 9.30 AM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 25) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM, 6/F, KCR HOUSE, SHA TIN STATION.

O - -

/15

! i

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1987

REQUESTS FOR DB FUNDS UNDER STUDY » » » » ♦

MEMBERS OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD’S CULTURE, RECREATION AND SPORTS COMMITTEE WILL MEET TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO DISCUSS APPLICATIONS FOR DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS AND A REPORT ON THE DISTRICT’S ACTIVITIES.

d — — — — — — t

NOTE TO. EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING TO BEGIN AT 10 AM IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD, SECOND FLOOR, SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, MAN NIN STREET, SAI KUNG TOWN.

------0--------

MODERN LAUNDRY EQUIPMENT FOR TUEN MUN HOSPITAL ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ »

MODERN LAUNDRY EQUIPMENT WILL BE INSTALLED IN TUEN MUN HOSPITAL, WHICH IS NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION, FOLLOWING THE AWARD OF A $14 MILLION CONTRACT BY THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

WHEN THE LAUNDRY BECOMES OPERATIONAL IN JULY .1989, IT WILL SERVE NOT ONLY THE HOSPITAL ITSELF BUT ALSO CASTLE PEAK HOSPITAL AND OTHER GOVERNMENT MEDICAL INSTITUTIONS IN TUEN MUN AND YUEN LONG DISTRICTS.

i .

THE DEPARTMENT HAS ALSO AWARDED A CONTRACT VALUED AT $685,000 FOR INSTALLING A LIFT IN THE LAUNDRY.

THE HOSPITAL, DUE FOR COMPLETION IN LATE 1988, WILL SERVICE THE POPULATION OF TUEN MUN NEW TOWN AND THE NORTHERN REGIONS OF THE WESTERN NEW TERRITORIES. IT WILL HAVE 1,656 BEDS AND COST ABOUT $2 BILLION.

------0--------

WATER STORAGE1 FIGURE » * »

STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 65 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 380.842 MILLION CUBIC METRES.

THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 374.261 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 63.8 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.

------0 ------- .....................

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1987

>ATER CUTS IN SHAM SHUT PO, CHAI WAN

» » » » *

FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN SHAM SHUI PO WILL BE TURNED OFF FROM 11 PM TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY FOR LEAKAGE TESTS.

I f t

THE AREA AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY SHEK KIP MEI STREET, ' TAI PO ROAD, PAR TIN STREET, WOH CHAI STREET AND NAM CHEONG STREET, INCLUDING BERWICK STREET, PEI HO STREET, LOWER SHEK KIP MEI ESTATE AND NORTH KOWLOON MAGISTRACY.

SALT WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN CHAI WAN WILL BE TURNED OFF FROM 10 AM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 25) TO 10 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY SO THAT WATER MAINS WORK CAN BE CARRIED OUT.

THE SUSF'ENSION WILL AFFECT PREMISES IN CHAI WAN ROAD BETWEEN LOK MAN ROAD AND SUN YIP STREET, INCLUDING LOK MAN ROAD, HONG MAN STREET, CHEUNG MAN ROAD, KUT SHING STREET, CHEUNG LEE STREET, NING FOO STREET, LEE CHUNG STREET, ON YIP STREET, SUN YIP STREET, SUN HA STREET, WAH HA STREET, SUI MAN ROAD, WAN TSUI ROAD, HING WAH ESTATE, CHAI WAN ROAD, pHAI WAN ESTATE, HENG FA TSUEN AND WAN TSUI ESTATE. •

- - 0 - -

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN WAN CHAI

Fl t » * * *

FROM 10 AM ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 26), WING FUNG STREET WEST WILL BE RE-ROUTED FROM ONE-WAY EASTBOUND TO ONE-WAY WESTBOUND FOR ABOUT SIX WEEKS TO FACILITATE DRAINAGE WORKS.

- - 0 - -

TEMPORARY LANE CLOSURES ON TAI PO ROAD

* » * »

THE SLOW LANE OF TAI PO ROAD SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN MA LIU SHUI AND HO TUNG LAU WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC BETWEEN 0.01 AM AND 6 AM ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 26) TO FACILITATE ROAD MAINTENANCE WORK.

THE FAST LANE OF TAI PO ROAD NORTHBOUND BETWEEN MA LIU SHUI AND PAK SHEK KOK WILL ALSO BE CLOSED DURING THE SAME PERIOD ON NOVEMBER 27 AND 28.

- O - -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

HK WELL EQUIPPED AS TRADE, FINANCE CENTRE .................. 1

METHODS OF REGULATING MAHJONG CLUBS UNDER STUDY ............ 2

PROVISIONAL TRADE FIGURES FOR OCTOBER RET EASED ............ 3

FUNDS SOUGHT FOR IMPROVING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME ........ 6

ELEVEN QUESTIONS ON LEGCO AGENDA ........................... 7

ONE MORE AIDS CASE.......................................... 8

SIU TO BE POSTMASTER GENERAL ............................... 9

NEW SECRETARY GENERAL OF OMELCO APPOINTED .................. 9

GERMAN FIIiMS TOLD OF BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ............... 10

TRAFFIC CHANGES FOR OPENING OF WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR ....... 10

FINALISTS SELECTED FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS' AWARDS ............. 12

CLASSICAL TRAM TO PROMOTE ROAD SAFETY....................... 14

ILLEGAL STRUCTURES IN ABERDEEN FACE CLOSURE ................ 15

MEETING TO DISCUSS SAI KUNG ROAD IMPROVEMENTS............... 16

URBAN CLEaRWAY RESTRICTIONS IN KWAI CHUNG .................. 16

PROHIBITED ZONE AT ESTATE IN TSING YI ...................... 16

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

HK WELL EQUIPPED AS TRADE, FINANCE CENTRE

*****

HONG KONG IS WELL EQUIPPED AS AN IMPORTANT REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL CENTRE IN TRADE, FINANCE AND OTHER ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR MICHAEL THOMAS, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) IN PARIS.

HE WAS ADDRESSING A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE ROTHSCHILDS BANK ON THE LAST DAY OF HIS OFFICIAL VISIT TO NEW YORK, BOSTON, LONDON AND PAR IS.

MR THOMAS SAID THAT IN RECENT DECADES, HONG KONG’S ECONOMY HAD SURGED AHEAD, TO THE ENVY OF THE WORLD.

"ITS GDP HAS GROWN BY AN AVERAGE OF NEARLY EIGHT PER CENT A YEAR FOR THE PAST 20 YEARS WHICH IS REMARKABLE BY ANY STANDARD," HE SAID.

"OUR PER CAPITA GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT STANDS AT ABOUT US$6,800. WE ARE SECOND ONLY TO JAPAN IN THE SOUTHEAST ASIA REGION.

"HONG KONG IS ALSO DEVELOPING A TRULY SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP WITH ITS MAINLAND NEIGHBOUR," HE SAID.

THE TERRITORY NOW PLAYED AN INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE AMBITIOUS PROGRAMMES OF ECONOMIC MODERNISATION BEING PURSUED IN CHINA, HE SAID.

"THE TOTAL VOLUME OF TRADE BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA HAS INCREASED MORE THAN FIVE-FOLD IN LESS THAN 10 YEARS AND THE VALUE OF THE ENTREPOT TRADE HAS TREBLED DURING THE SAME PERIOD," MR THOMAS SAID.

HE POINTED OUT THAT HONG KONG WAS THE LARGEST SOURCE OF INVESTMENT IN CHINA’S SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES.

"HONG KONG IS ALSO A VALUABLE SOURCE OF SERVICES AND EXPERTISE OF WHICH CHINA IS MAKING EXTENSIVE USE IN ITS MODERNISATION PROGRAMME AND PARTICULARLY MANAGEMENT SKILLS," MR THOMAS SAID.

HE NOTED THAT MANY CHINESE VISITORS HAD COME TO HONG KONG TO ATTEND SEMINARS, TO DO BUSINESS AND TO STUDY HONG KONG’S MANAGERIAL TECHNIQUES.

"HONG KONG’S EFFICIENT POST, TELECOMMUNICATIONS, AIR TRANSPORT AND BANKING FACILITIES, COMBINED WITH GEOGRAPHICAL PROXIMITY AND THE ABSENCE OF A SIGNIFICANT LANGUAGE BARRIER HAVE ALL MEANT THAT HONG KONG'S ATTRACTION AS A CONDUIT FOR CHINA’S ECONOMIC RELATIONS WITH THE OUTSIDE WORLD HAVE CONTINUED TO GROW, EVEN AS CHINA ESTABLISHES DIRECT LINKS WITH OTHER COUNTRIES," MR THOMAS SAID.

MR THOMAS WILL BE RETURNING TO HONG KONG TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY)

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24,

1987

METHODS OF REGULATING MAHJONG CLUBS UNDER STUDY

* * « *

THE GOVERNMENT IS EXAMINING METHODS OF REGULATING THOSE CLUBS WHICH MAKE MAHJONG GAMBLING ILLEGALLY THEIR PRIME AND ONLY BUSINESS, THE SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION, MR PETER TSAO, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).

SPEAKING AT A LUNCH MEETING OF THE FEDERATION OF HONG KONG INDUSTRIES, MR TSAO SAID THESE CLUBS OR ASSOCIATIONS WERE SET UP UNDER THE SOCIETIES ORDINANCE AND THE CRITERIA FOR THE APPROVAL OF THEIR REGISTRATION OR THEIR EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION AS SUCH COULD BE RELATIVELY EASILY FULFILLED.

HE SAID THESE CLUBS, ONCE ESTABLISHED, ASSUMED THE SAME DEGREE OF PRIVACY AS ALL PRIVATE CLUBS RIGHTLY ENJOYED AND THIS MADE THE MONITORING OF THEIR ACTIVITIES DIFFICULT.

MR TSAO SAID THE LAW ON MAHJONG GAMBLING IN CLUBS REQUIRED THAT THE GAME DID NOT INVOLVE PLAYING AGAINST A BANK KEPT BY ONE OR MORE PLAYERS EXCLUSIVELY OF OTHERS.

THE GAME MUST NOT BE CONDUCTED BY WAY OF BUSINESS OTHERWISE THAN TO THE EXTENT OF CHARGING A FEE OF $20 PER DAY PER SET OF MAHJONG TILES. AN INDIVIDUAL'S GAIN MUST BE LIMITED TO THE EXTENT OF HIS WINNINGS AS A PLAYER.

MR TSAO SAID SOME OF THESE CLUBS WERE BREAKING THESE RULES AND WERE IN EFFECT ILLEGAL GAMBLING ESTABLISHMENTS MAKING BIG BUSINESS AND PROFITS.

"THERE ARE GROUNDS TO BELIEVE THAT SOME ARE UNDER THE CONTROL <»F UNDESIRABLE ELEMENTS," HE SAID.

MR TSAO SAID THAT FROM TIME TO TIME THE OPERATORS OF SUCH ITEMISES HAD BEEN SUCCESSFULLY PROSECUTED AND THOSE INVOLVED IN II LEGAL GAMBLING HAD ALSO BEEN PUNISHED.

"IT IS CONCEIVABLE THAT SOME WHO FREQUENT THESE PLACES ARE UNAWARE OF THE LAW AND THERE MAY WELL BE GROUNDS FOR FURTHER ADVERTISING THE RULES WHICH PERTAIN TO MAHJONG GAMBLING IN CLUBS,” HE SAID.

"IT IS INCONCEIVABLE HOWEVER THAT WE SHOULD CONSIDER APPLYING THE LICENSING CRITERIA AND CONTROLS OF MAHJONG HOUSES TO ALL CLUBS, AS HAS BEEN SUGGESTED," HR ADDED.

MR TSAO SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S PRESENT POLICY WAS NOT TO ENCOURAGE GAMBLING AND TO RESTRICT OPPORTUNITIES FOR GAMBLING BUT TO ALLOW CONTROLLED OUTLETS FOR CERTAIN FORMS OF GAMBLING WHERE A COGENT NEED FOR SUCH OUTLETS WAS ESTABLISHED.

"THIS POLICY IS BACKED UP BY RESTRICTIVE LAWS AND FIRM ENFORCEMENT ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL GAMBLING ACTIVITIES,” HE SAID.

/MR TSAO .......

TUESDAY, N0VD4BER 24, 198?

- 5

MR TSAO SAID THIS POLICY HAD BEEN SUCCESSFUL AS EVIDENCED BY ESTIMATES THAT THE ILLEGAL BOOKMAKING ANNUAL TURNOVER HAD FALLEN FROM $2,500-$3,000 MILLION IN 1973 TO SOME $600 MILLION TODAY.

ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW OFF-COURSE BETTING CENTRES, MR TSAO SAID THAT WHILE THE GOVERNMENT HAD PLACED AN OVERALL LIMIT TO THE NUMBER OF SUCH CENTRES, THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW CENTRES OF POPULATION MEANT THAT THERE WAS A DEMAND FOR THE RELOCATION AND THE OPENING OF NEW CENTRES TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE SHIFTING POPULATION.

"FAILURE TO MEET THESE NEEDS WILL WITHOUT DOUBT STIMULATE ILLEGAL BOOKMAKING, THE SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES OF WHICH ARE IMMEASURABLY WORSE THAN THE PROVISION OF LEGAL OUTLETS.

"THIS REGRETTABLY IS NOT ALWAYS APPRECIATED BY THOSE WHO OBJECT WHENEVER A PROPOSAL TO OPEN A NEW CENTRE IN THEIR VICINITY IS MADE. NEVERTHELESS THE VIEWS OF LOCAL RESIDENTS ARE AND WILL CONTINUE TO RE CAREFULLY MONITORED," HE SAID.

MR TSAO SAID ONE QUESTION OFTEN ASKED WAS THAT WHY THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT PERMIT CASINO-TYPE GAMBLING IN HONG KONG.

"SOME SAY YES, SOME NO. THE BEST ANSWER I CAN GIVE IS ’ENOUGH IS PERHAPS ENOUGH’, BUT THE QUESTION MUST BE LEFT TANTALISINGLY UNANSWERED FOR THE TIME BEING," HE SAID.

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PROVISIONAL TRADE FIGURES FOR OCTOBER RELEASED » » » t »

HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE CONTINUED TO SURGE IN OCTOBER 1987, THOUGH AT A SLOWER RATE THAN IN SEPTEMBER.

ACCORDING TO THE PROVISIONAL TRADE FIGURES PUBLISHED TODAY

(TUESDAY) BV THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS IN OCTOBER 1987 WAS $18,188 MILLION, 18.4 PER CENT

OR $2,829 MILLION HIGHER THAN IN OCTOBER 1986, WHILE THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS INCREASED BY 39.0 PER CENT OR $4,790 MILLION TO $17,082

MlI,LION.

THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS (DOMESTIC EXPORTS PLUS RE-EXPORTS), AT $35,270 MILLION, WAS 27.6 PER CENT OR $7,619 MILLION HIGHER THAN IN OCTOBER 1986.

1)11 VALUE OF IMPORTS GREW BI 24.0 PER CENT OR $6,709 MILLION

OVIK’ OCTOBER 1986 TO $34,711 MILLION.

/AS THE

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1987

AS THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS IN OCTOBER 1987 WAS GREATER THAN THAT OF IMPORTS, A VISIBLE TRADE SURPLUS OF $556 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 1.6 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, WAS RECORDED FOR THE MONTH. THE VISIBLE TRADE BALANCE FOR INDIVIDUAL MONTHS IS, HOWEVER, SUBJECT TO FLUCTUATIONS. IN OCTOBER 1986, A DEFICIT OF $354 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 1.3 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, WAS RECORDED.

PUTTING THE MONTH’S TRADE FIGURES INTO CONTEXT, THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS FOR THE FIRST 10 MONTHS OF 1987 WAS $305,485 MILLION, MADE UP OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF $159,327 MILLION AND RE-EXPORTS OF $146,158 MILLION.

COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986, THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS GREW BY $84,095 MILLION OR 38.0 PER CENT, THAT OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY $35,581 MILLION OR 28.8 PER CENT, AND THAT OF RE-EXPORTS BY $48,514 MILLION OR 49.7 PER CENT. OVER THIS PERIOD, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS GREW BY $82,424 MILLION OR 37.1 PER CENT, TO $304,865 MILLION.

A SMALL CUMULATIVE VISIBLE TRADE SURPLUS OF $620 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 0.2 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, WAS RECORDED IN I’HI FIRST 10 MONTHS OF 1987. THIS COMPARES WITH A DEFICIT OF $1,051 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 0.5 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, RECORDED IN THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986.

COMMENTING ON THESE FIGURES, A GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT SPOKESMAN SAID THE RAPID GROWTH IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS IN RECENT MONTHS WAS MAINLY ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE SUSTAINED DEMAND FOR AND RELATIVE (’OMPITITIVENESS OF HONG KONG’S PRODUCTS IN THE MAJOR OVERSEAS MARKETS. ON HIE SUPPLY SIDE, IT REFLECTED THE FLEXIBILITY AND EFFICIENCY OF THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR IN ('OPING WITH DEMAND WHEN RESOURCES WERE TIGHT.

THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE CONTINUED RAPID GROWTH IN RE-EX PORTS WAS MAINLY DUE TO THE FLOURISHING ENTREPOT TRADE WITH (HINA, IN ITS POSITION BOTH AS A SOURCE AND AS A MARKET FOR HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS.

Ill ADDED THAT THE SUSTAINED GROWTH IN IMPORTS WAS PARTLY A REFLECTION OF THE GROWTH IN DOMESTIC DEMAND, BUT ALSO SUGGESTED THAT EXPORT PERFORMANCE WAS LIKELY TO REMAIN SATISFACTORY FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR.

THE GENERALLY SLOWER GROWTH RATES OF THE TRADE AGGREGATES RECORDED IN OCTOBER 1987 WERE PARTLY A RESULT OF THE HIGH RASE OF COMPARISON IN THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR.

THE FOLLOWING TABLE PRESENTS THE PROVISIONAL MERECHANDISE TRADE FIGURES FOR OCTOBER 1987.

MERC'HAND I SE : DOMES'!' I (’ EX PORTS RE-EXPORTS TOTAL EXPORTS IMPORTS TRADE BALANCE

$18,188 MILLION

$17,082 MILLION

$35,270 MILLION

$34,714 MILLION

$ 556 MILLION | IN SURPLUS 1

/COMPARATIVE FIGURES

1 - 5 - TCSSiMY,

COMPARATIVE FIGURES AUG 87 TO 9 AUG 86 TO INCREASE

LATEST 3 MONTHS OCT 87 HK$ MN. OCT 86 HKS MN. HK$ MN. %

DOMESTIC EXPORTS 54,587 44,102 10,485 23.8

1 RE-EXPORTS 49,733 34,048 15,685 46.1 !

TOTAL EXPORTS 104,320 78,150 26,170 33.5

i IMPORTS 99,413 74,947 24,466 32.6

TRADE BALANCE 4,907 3,203 1,704

OCTOBER OCTOBER INCREASE

SAME MONTH LAST YEAR 1987 HK$ MN. 1986 HK$ MN. HK$ MN. %

DOMESTIC EXPORTS 18,188 15,359 2,829 18.4

(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (51.6%) (55.5%) 4,790 39.0

RE-EXPORTS 17,082 12,292

TOTAL EXPORTS 35,270 27,651 7,619 27.6

IMPORTS 34,714 28,005 6,709 24.0

TRADE BALANCE 556 -354 910 *' 1

OCTOBER SEPTEMBER INCREASE

LAST MONTH 1987 HK$ MN. 1987 HK$ MN. HK$ MN. %

1 DOMESTIC EXPORTS 18,188 17,843 345 1.9

(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (51.6%) (52.0%)

I RE-EXPORTS 17,082 16,502 580 3.5

TOTAL EXPORTS 35,270 34,345 925 2.7

IMPORTS 34,714 32,766 1,948 5.9

TRADE BALANCE 556 1,579 -1,023

JAN-OCT JAN-OCT INCREASE

CALENDAR YEAR TO-DATE 1987 HK$ MN. 1986 HK$ MN. HK$ MN. %

DOMESTIC EXPORTS 159,327 123,746 35,581 28.8

(% OF TOTAL EXPORTS) (52.2%) (55.9%) 48,514 49.7

RE-EXPORTS 146,158 97,644

TOTAL EXPORTS 305,485 221,390 84,095 38.0

' IMPORTS 304,865 222,441 82,424 37.1

TRADE BALANCE 620 -1,051 1,671

NOV 86 TO NOV 85 TO INCREASE

LAST 12 MONTHS OCT 8 7 IIK$ MN. OCT 86 HK$ MN. HK$ MN. %

| DOMESTIC EXPORTS 1 89,565 147,521 42,044 28.5

। RE-EXPORTS 171 ,060 115,833 55,227 47.7

TOTAL EXPORTS 360,625 263,354 97,271 36.9

IMPORTS 358,378 264,937 93,441 35.3

TRADE BALANCE 2,24 7 -1,583 3,830

0 - - /6

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

FUNDS SOUGHT FOR IMPROVING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME

» » * « «

THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL BE ASKED TO ACCEPT THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS ARISING FROM A PROPOSAL TO IMPROVE THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME, WITH EFFECT FROM JANUARY 1 NEXT YEAR, AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).

AFTER A RECENT REVIEW OF THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE SCHEME, A PACKAGE OF PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS WAS APPROVED BY THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL SUBJECT TO THE PROVISION OF THE NECESSARY FUNDS.

THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS ARE ESTIMATED AT $25.7 MILLION FOR A FULL YEAR IN ANNUALLY RECURRENT EXPENDITURE.

THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO CONSIDER TWO ITEMS RELATING TO RECENT EVENTS IN THE HONG KONG STOCK AND FUTURES MARKETS.

THE FIRST ONE IS TO APPROVE A COMMITMENT OF $3.5 MILLION FOR A CONSULTANCY ON THE FINANCIAL FUTURES MARKET IN HONG KONG.

THE EXPENDITURE WAS INCURRED AS A RESULT OF THE ENGAGEMENT OF THE HAMBROS BANK LTD ON OCTOBER 22 TO ACT AS ADVISER TO THE GOVERNMENT, WHICH LED TO THE ORDERLY RE-OPENING OF THE STOCK AND FUTURES MARKETS ON OCTOBER 26.

THE SECOND ITEM IS TO APPROVE THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF ESTABLISHING THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE, ESTIMATED AT $5.1 MILLION AND A NEW NON-RECURRENT COMMITMENT OF $3.9 MILLION FOR THE ENGAGEMENT OF EXPERTS AND FOR DUTY VISITS.

OTHER ITEMS ON TOMORROW'S AGENDA INCLUDE:

» AN INCREASE OF $6,193,000 IN THE BLOCK CAPITAL GRANT TO THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT FOR INCLUSION OF 11 ADDITIONAL WELFARE PROJECTS IN,THE ROLLING PROGRAMME;

* A SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISION OF $4.2 MILLION TO MEET REFUNDS OF REVENUE;

» A COMMITMENT OF $4.6 MILLION FOR THE PURCHASE OF A REPLACEMENT THREE-UNIT REEL-FED OFFSET PRINTING PRESS FOR THE PRINTING DEPARTMENT;

* AN INCREASE IN COMMITMENT BY $19,030,000 FOR ASBESTOS ABATEMENT WORKS TO BE CARRIED OUT IN 28 AIDED SCHOOLS;

* A COMMITMENT OF $5,913,000 TO ASSIST THE PO LEUNG KUK IN PROVIDING A SPECIAL SCHOOL WITH BOARDING PLACES AT THE LEI MUK SHUE ESTATE FOR SEVERELY MENTALLY HANDICAPPED CHILDREN;

A THE FINANCIAL .........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

* THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF SETTING UP A PILOT COMPUTERISED HOSPITAL INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT, ESTIMATED AT $33,008,000 IN NON-RECURRENT COST AND $5,972,000 IN ANNUALLY RECURRENT EXPENDITURE ON FULL IMPLEMENTATION;

» A COMMITMENT OF $12.8 MILLION FOR REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE TO THE CARITAS MEDICAL CENTRE AND A COMMITMENT OF $3,683,000 FOR REPAIRS TO THE EXTERNAL WALLS OF BUILDINGS AT THE KWONG WAR HOSPITAL;

* AN INCREASE IN COMMITMENT BY $28,977,000, $1,100,000 AND

$4,340,000 FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND EQUIPMENT OF THE KWAI CHUNG AND KWUN TONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE ANNEXES; THE

ALTERATIONS WORKS TO THE EXISTING BUILDINGS OF THE

VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL; AND THE FURNITURE AND

EQUIPMENT IN THESE BUILDINGS RESPECTIVELY;

* A COMMITMENT OF $5,064,000 FOR THE PURCHASE OF TWO

HYDRAULIC PLATFORMS, $3.6 MILLION FOR TWO REPLACEMENT 50-METRE TURNTABLE LADDER SETS AND $3,350,000 FOR ONE REPLACEMENT MAJOR SNORKEL FOR THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT:

♦ AN INCREASE IN COMMITMENT BY $1,790,000 FOR THE EXPENSES OF THE OVERSEAS TRUST BANK COMPENSATION TRIBUNAL.

THE FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO CONSIDER RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE ESTABLISHMENT SUB-COMMITTEE.

-----0------

ELEVEN QUESTIONS ON LEGCO AGENDA

* » * *

MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL RAISE 11 QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER THREE BILLS AT THEIR MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).

THE THREE BILLS, NAMELY, THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS (MEMBERS) BILL 1987, THE FISHERIES PROTECTION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1987 AND THE INLAND REVENUE (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1987, WILL GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE PUT UP FOR THIRD READING.

-----O------

/8........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

- 8 -

ONE MORE AIDS CASE * * *

THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY) CONFIRMED A NEW CASE OF AIDS (ACQUIRED IMMUNE DEFICIENCY SYNDROME) IN HONG KONG.

THE NEW CASE IS A NON-CHINBSE MAN WHO HAD SEXUALLY ACQUIRED THE INFECTION.

HE WAS AMONG THE AIDS CARRIERS PREVIOUSLY TESTED AND RECENTLY WAS FOUND TO HAVE DEVELOPED SYMPTOMS OF THE DISEASE.

UP TO NOW, SEVEN AIDS PATIENTS HAVE DIED IN HONG KONG. BESIDES THE NEW CASE, ANOTHER PATIENT IS UNDER TREATMENT.

RELEASING THE AIDS SURVEILLANCE PROGRAMME FIGURES FOR OCTOBER, A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN ANNOUNCED THAT TWO MORE PERSONS WERE FOUND TO Bl INFECTED BY THE AIDS VIRUS OUT OF A TOTAL OF 3,471 PERSONS TESTED LAST MONTH.

THIS BRINGS THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HONG KONG INFECTED BY AIDS TO 106.

OF THE TWO NEW CARRIERS, ONE IS A HAEMOPHILIAC AND THE OTHER IS A REFERRAL FROM A PRIVATE PRACTITIONER.

TO MONITOR THE AIDS SITUATION IN HONG KONG, THE VIRUS UNIT OF Uli DEPARTMENT IMPLEMENTED AN AIDS SURVEILLANCE PROGRAMME IN 1985 TO CARRY OUT HIV ANTIBODY TESTS ON CERTAIN HIGH RISK GROUPS. THESE GROUPS INCLUDE SEXUALLY PROMISCUOUS PERSONS, INTRAVENOUS DRUG ADDICTS AND MULTI-TRANSFUSED PATIENTS.

BY OCTOBER, A TOTAL OF 70,727 TESTS HAVE BEEN CARRIED OUT UNDER THE SURVEILLANCE PROGRAMME.

DURING OCTOBER, THE HONG KONG RED CROSS BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE HAD ALSO CARRIED OUT TESTS FOR THE HIV ANTIBODY ON 14,170 UNITS OF DONATED BLOOD, ALL SHOWING NEGATIVE RESULTS.

SINCE THE MASS SCREENING PROGRAMME ON DONATED BLOOD WAS STARTED TWO YEARS AGO, A TOTAL OF 324,276 UNITS OF BLOOD HAVE BEEN TESTED AND FIVE WERE FOUND TO BE INFECTED BY THE AIDS VIRUS.

THE AIDS COUNSELLING SERVICE, WHICH WAS SET UP IN NOVEMBER 1985, RECEIVED 1,781 CALLS LAST MONTH FROM PEOPLE WHO FEARED THAT THEY MIGHT HAVE CONTRACTED AIDS.

-------O---------

/9........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

- 9 -

SIU TO BE POSTMASTER GENERAL » ♦ » » *

THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT MR GORDON SIU, SECRETARY GENERAL, OMELCO, WILL SUCCEED MR HUGH ARDLEY AS POSTMASTER GENERAL WHEN MR ARDLEY RETIRES IN MARCH NEXT YEAR AFTER 11 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH THE GOVERNMENT.

FOLLOWING ARE BRIEF BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES ON THE TWO OFFICERS:

MR GORDON SIU KWING-CHUE, JP

AGED 41. MR SIU JOINED THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE IN 1968. HE HAS SERVED IN A NUMBER OF DEPARTMENTS AND BRANCHES. MORE RECENTLY HE HAS SERVED AS MUSIC ADMINISTRATOR (1977-79), PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE (1980-82), AND DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE (STAFF MANAGEMENT) (1982-85). HE BECAME SECRETARY GENERAL, OMELCO IN OCTOBER 1985. HE WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE B IN APRIL 198?

MR HUGH GORDON ARDLEY, ISO, JP

AGED 58. MR ARDLEY JOINED THE HONG KONG CIVIL SERVICE AS AN ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE C IN 1976, AFTER COMPLETING 30 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH THE UK CIVIL SERVICE. HE HAS SERVED AS DEPUTY SECRETARY (MANAGEMENT) IN THE FORMER ADMINISTRATION BRANCH (1976-79), DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES (1979-81), AND DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT (1981-82). HE BECAME POSTMASTER GENERAL IN DECEMBER 1982. HE WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE Bl IN JULY 1983.

-----0 ---------

NEW SECRETARY GENERAL OF OMELCO APPOINTED ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE OFFICE OF MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS (OMELCO) ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT MRS KATHERINE FOK LO SHIU-C'HING WILL SUCCEED MR GORDON SIU AS THE SECRETARY GENERAL OF THE OFFICE. SHE WILL TAKE UP THE NEW APPOINTMENT ON JANUARY 1, 1988.

MRS FOK, AGED 45, IS A STAFF GRADE B ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER. SHE JOINED THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AS AN ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER IN 1962 AND HAS SINCE SERVED IN A NUMBER OF BRANCHES AND DEPARTMENTS, INCLUDING HIE FORMER HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT AND THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

AT PRESENT, SHE IS THE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS, INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION, A POST WHICH SHE TOOK UP IN NOVEMBER 1983.

______0-------- /10...................

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

- 10 -

GERMAN FIRMS TOLD OF BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

* * * *

THERE ARE EXTENSIVE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GERMAN FIRMS TO DO BUSINESS IN HONG KONG, THE MINISTER FOR HONG KONG’S ECONOMIC RELATIONS WITH THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY, MR STEUART WEBB-JOHNSON, TOLD A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE EAST ASIA ASSOCIATION IN HAMBURG.

MR WEBB-JOHNSON SAID OPPORTUNITIES EXISTED PARTICULARLY IN THE SERVICES AND CONSTRUCTION SECTORS, AND HE NOTED THAT HONG KONG’S IMPORTS FROM WEST GERMANY HAD GROWN BY 30 PER CENT IN THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR.

THE EAST ASIA ASSOCIATION IS AN INFLUENTIAL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION. IT COMPRISES OVER 400 MEMBER FIRMS FROM ALL SECTORS OF THE GERMAN ECONOMY AND AIMS AT PROMOTING TRADE RELATIONS BETWEEN WEST GERMANY AND SOUTHEAST ASIA.

POINTING TO HONG KONG’S ROLE AS A GATEWAY TO CHINA, MR WEBB-JOHNSON STRESSED THAT THE TERRITORY’S GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION AND THE LOCALLY AVAILABLE EXPERTISE IN TRADE WITH CHINA SHOULD NOT BE OVERLOOKED BY BUSINESSES LOOKING TO ESTABLISH A BASE IN THE REGION.

HE ALSO DREW ATTENTION TO THE DEVELOPMENTS IN HONG KONG OVER THE LAST THREE YEARS AND IN PARTICULAR TO THE SINO-BRITISH AGREEMENT ON THE TERRITORY’S FUTURE.

HE POINTED TO THE MANY ASSURANCES GIVEN BY CHINA - BOTH AT HOME AND ABROAD - CONCERNING THE AGREEMENT AND THE RESULTING RETURN OF CONFIDENCE TO HONG KONG’S ECONOMY.

-------0----------

TRAFFIC CHANGES FOR OPENING OF WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR

♦ ♦ * * »

TO COINCIDE WITH THE OPENING OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR STAGE III, A SERIES OF TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN MONG KOK AND SHAM SHUT PO FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 28).

WITH THE OPENING OF THE CORRIDOR, TRAVELLING TIME BETWEEN SOUTH KOWLOON AND THE WESTERN NEW TERRITORIES WILL BE GREATLY REDUCED.

/UNDER THE

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

UNDER THE ARRANGEMENTS, TWO ROAD SECTIONS IN MONG KOK WILL BE RE-ROUTED:

* FIR STREET BETWEEN LARCH STREET AND FUK TSUN STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED FROM ONE-WAY NORTHEAST-BOUND TO ONE-WAY SOUTHWEST-BOUND.

» SYCAMORE STREET BETWEEN MAPLE STREET AND PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST, CURRENTLY ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND, WILL BECOME TWO-WAY.

THE FOLLOWING TURNING MOVEMENTS WILL BE BANNED:

* LEFT TURNS FROM TONG MEI ROAD NORTHBOUND ON TO PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST WESTBOUND, AND FROM PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST EASTBOUND ON TO TONG MEI ROAD NORTHBOUND.

» RIGHT TURNS FROM PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST WESTBOUND ON TO

SYCAMORE STREET, AND FROM TONG MEI ROAD NORTHBOUND ON TO

MONG KOK ROAD EASTBOUND.

» RIGHT TURNS FROM MONG KOK ROAD WESTBOUND ON TO TONG MEI

ROAD NORTHBOUND WILL BE BANNED FOR ALL VEHICLES EXCEPT

FRANCHISED BUSES.

HOWEVER, VEHICLES TRAVELLING ON TONG MEI ROAD NORTHBOUND WILL BE ALLOWED TO TURN RIGHT ON TO PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST EASTBOUND.

ALL PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES, LEARNER DRIVERS, CYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR AND ITS SLIP ROADS. IN ADDITION, THE OFFSIDE LANE OF MONG KOK ROAD WESTBOUND BETWEEN CHEUNG WONG ROAD AND TONG MEI ROAD WILL BE MADE A BUS-ONLY LANE. NO VEHICLES OTHER THAN FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THIS TRAFFIC LANE AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY.

TO ENSURE SMOOTH TRAFFIC FLOW, THE FOLLOWING ROAD SECTIONS WILL BE MADE URBAN CLEARWAYS OPERATING ROUND THE CLOCK:

t THE SOUTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR FROM A POINT ABOUT 80 METRES EAST OF THE JUNCTION OF LAI CHI KOK ROAD WITH CHEUNG MOU STREET IN CHEUNG SHA WAN TO THE NOSING OF THE EXIT SLIP ROAD FOR TONG MEI ROAD SOUTHBOUND IN MONG KOK.

» THE EXIT SLIP ROAD TO TONG MEI ROAD SOUTHBOUND FROM ITS NOSING WITH THE SOUTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR TO A POINT ABOUT FIVE METRES SOUTH OF THE JUNCTION OF TONG MEI ROAD WITH BUTE STREET.

t THE EXIT SLIP ROAD TO PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST IN MONG KOK FROM ITS NOSING WITH THE SOUTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR TO THE JUNCTION OF PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST WITH SYCAMORE STREET.

/X THE NORTHBOUND ........

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

* THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR FROM THE NOSING OF THE SLIP ROAD WHICH LEADS TO YEN CHOW STREET IN SHAM SHUT PO TO A POINT ABOUT 80 METRES EAST OF THE JUNCTION OF LAI CHI KOK ROAD WITH CHEUNG MOU STREET IN CHEUNG SHA WAN.

» THE SECTION OF THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH CHERRY STREET IN TAI KOK TSUI TO ITS EXIT SLIP ROAD JUNCTION WITH YEN CHOW STREET IN SHAM SHUI PO.

TWO SECTIONS OF LAI CHI KOK ROAD WILL BECOME 7 AM TO MIDNIGHT DAILY URBAN CLEARWAYS. THEY ARE LAI CHI KOK ROAD EASTBOUND FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH CHEUNG SHUN STREET TO A POINT ABOUT 65 METRES EAST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH CHEUNG LAI STREET, AND LAI CHI KOK ROAD WESTBOUND FROM HOUSE NO. 855 TO A POINT ABOUT 80 METRES EAST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH YUET LUN STREET. HOWEVER, THE SERVICE ROAD FROM HOUSE NOS. 855 TO 869 LAI CHI KOK ROAD WILL NOT BE SUBJECT TO THIS RESTRICTION.

IN ADDITION, LAI CHI KOK ROAD FROM HING WAH STREET TO A POINT ABOUT 65 METRES EAST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH CHEUNG LAI STREET WILL BE MADE A 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY.

WHILE A SPEED LIMIT OF 70 KILOMETRES PER HOUR WILL BE IMPOSED ON CERTAIN SECTIONS OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR, VEHICLES TRAVELLING ALONG SOME OTHER SECTIONS OF THE CORRIDOR AND ITS SLIP ROADS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO EXCEED THE LIMIT OF 50 KILOMETRES PER HOUR. MOTORISTS ARE ADVISED TO FOLLOW THE DIRECTION OF TRAFFIC SIGNS.

-----0------

FINALISTS SELECTED FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS’ AWARDS » » » ♦ »

A TOTAL OF 12 COMPOSERS AND ENSEMBLE GROUPS HAVE BEEN SELECTED AS FINALISTS FOR THIS YEAR’S HONG KONG YOUNG MUSICIANS’ AWARDS.

THE COMPETITION IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE, RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG (RTHK) AND THE COMPOSERS AND AUTHORS SOCIETY OF HONG KONG (CASH).

AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (TUESDAY), MUSIC ADMINISTRATOR, MRS DORIS IIO, SAID THE CONTEST WAS ENTERING ITS LAST STAGE WITH ITS FINALS SCHEDULED TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 28 AND 29 AT THE CONCERT HALL, ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS.

THERE ARE IWO CATEGORIES EACH IN THE CHINESE MUSIC AND WESTERN MUSIC SE( TIONS, ONE FOR COMPOSITION AND THE OTHER FOR ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE.

/THE WINNER .......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

THE WINNER AND FIRST TWO RUNNERS-UP IN EACH CATEGORY WILL BE AWARDED $6,000, $3,000 AND $1,000 RESPECTIVELY, WITH THE AMOUNT OF CASH PRICES DONATED BY CASH TOTALLING $40,000.

ADMINISTRATOR OF THE HONG KONG MUSIC FUND CASH, MISS GRACE CHEUNG, SAID IT WAS THE AIM OF I HE SOCIETY TO ENCOURAGE CREATIVITY IN COMPOSITION THROUGH THE CONTEST. SHE SAID SHE WAS HAPPY TO SEE THAT THE EVENT HAD ATTRACTED MORE ENTRIES EACH YEAR AND THAT THE STANDARD WAS IMPROVING AT THE SAME TIME.

MR RICHARD TSANG, HEAD OF RADIO 4, RTHK, SAID: "AS ONE OF THE INITIATORS OF THIS COMPETITION SEVEN YEARS AGO, I AM PARTICULARLY EXCITED TO SEE THAT THE YOUNG MUSICIANS’ AWARDS PROJECT HAS FULFILLED ITS OBJECTIVES TO PROMOTE AND TO NURTURE THE CREATIVE AND PERFORMING TALENTS OF OUR YOUTHS."

"I SINCERELY HOPE THAT ALL COMPETITORS IN THE COMING COMPETITION CAN ACHIEVE THE BEST RESULTS AND THAT THEY WILL CONTINUE TO WORK TOWARDS IMPROVING OUR MUSIC SCENE," HE ADDED.

MEMBERS OF THE PANELS OF JUDGES FOR THE FINAL. EVENTS ARE DR DANIEL LAW, MR LAW WING-FAI, DR CHAN WING-WAH, MR KWOK DICK-YEUNG, MR CHAN PUT-FANG, MR HENRY NOVAK, MISS MARY POND, DR ANNE BOYD, DR WILLIAN WATSON, DR HARRISON RYKER, MR LAW WAI-LUN, MR CHEUNG SHUN, MR GUO HENG-JI, MR CHEN NTNG-CHI, MR KUOK KWONG-YUI, MS HON SEE-WAH, MR CHAN HOI-KAN, MR YUEN TONG-CHOR, DR YIP MING-MEI AND

MR CHAN SAM-LAM.

TRACING THE HISTORY OF THE AWARDS, MRS HO SAID IT WAS FIRST HELD IN 1981 AS THE HONG KONG YOUNG MUSIC MAKERS’ TALENT QUEST AND WAS RENAMED THE HONG KONG YOUNG MUSICIANS’ AWARDS IN 1984 IN ORDER TO REFLECT MORE APPROPRIATELY ITS AIMS AND OBJECTIVES.

THE LIST OF THE FINAL ENTRIES IS AS FOLLOWS:

CHINESE COMPOSITION

I. A POET’S DREAM BY CHAN HING-YAN

2. THE BRAVE MAN BY CHEUNG CHI-LEUNG

3. DANCING ON THE MOON BY CHAN MING-CHI

WESTERN COMPOSTITTON

1. "C" QUINTET BY HO SIU-WAH

2. BALLAD BY LEUNG BO-WAH

3. AUTUMN MIST BY LAM KUN-WONG

/CHINESE ENSEMBLE

TUESDAY, NOVfcMBER 24, 1987

CHINESE ENSEMBLE PERFORMAN’CE

I. SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION BY CHAN KAM-BIU

2. THREE VARIATIONS ON YANG CITY TUNE BY HU DENG-TIAO

3. DRUM POEM BY TAN DUN AND LI ZHEN-GUI

WESTERN ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE

1. TRIO FOR PIANOFORTE, CLARINET AND CELLO IN A MINOR, OP. 114 BY JOHANNES BRAHMS

2. SUITE FOR PIANOFORTE, CLARINET AND VIOLIN RY DARIUS MILHAUD

3. BRASS QUINTET BY MALCOLM ARNOLD

A LIMITED NUMBER OF TICKETS FOR THE TWO FINALS ON NOVEMBER 28 AND 29 AT 8 PM, PRICED AT $10 EACH, ARF STILL AVAILABLE AT ALL URTIX OUTLETS, THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS AND THE HONG KONG ARIS CEN IRE. ENQUIRIES MAY BE MADE ON 5-28*3257.

--------0-----------

( LASS I CAL TRAM TO PROMOTE ROAD SAFETY ♦ ♦ * * t

A CLASSICAL TRAM WILL TOUR CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 29) AFTERNOON TO PROMOTE THE ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN.

SOME DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS WILL ACCOMPANY THE TRAM TOUR AND DISTRIBUTE ROAD SAFETY PAMPHLETS TO RESIDENTS AT VARIOUS STOPS.

A CARNIVAL WILL PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT TO

BE HELI) ON THE SAME DAY AT THE CHATER PUBLICISE THE IMPORTANCE OF ROAD SAFETY.

ROAD

A NUMBER OF GAME STALLS WILL BE SET UP, ONE OF WHICH IS A TONGUE-TWISTER GAME ON ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES.

THERE WILL BE A PHOTO EXHIBITION ON TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS WRECKED CARS (>N DISPLAY TO REMIND PEOPLE OF THE COSTLY PRICE USING THE ROADS PROPERLY.

AND TWO

FOR NOT

IN ADDITION, A MOBILE ROAD SAFETY TOWN WILL BE SET UP TO HELP PEOPLE UNDERSTAND THE ROAD SAFETY CODE, WHILE CHILDREN CAN HAVE FUN BY PLAYING IN AN INFLATABLE GORILLA AT THE CARNIVAL.

/THE CENTRAL .......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

15 -

THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR LAM KAM-KWONG, WILL OPEN THE CARNIVAL AT 2.30 PM. THIS WILL BE FOLLOWED BY CHORAL SINGING AND A BAND PERFORMANCE.

OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR VINCENT KO; DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS, MR CHAM SIU-LEUN AND MR HUNG WING-TAT* POLICE CENTRAL DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR BILL KIRKHOPE; WESTERN DI STRICT’POLICE COMMANDER, MR E.J. STEVENSON; AND SENIOR STAFF OFFICER OF THE POLICE TRAFFIC SECTION (HONG KONG ISLAND), MR LAM KIN.

THE CARNIVAL IS ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD, WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE POLICE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL STARTING AT 2.30 PM ON SUNDAY AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT. INFORMATION OFFICER, MISS VALENTINA CHAN, WILL BE ON HANI) TO ASSIST.

ILLEGAL STRUCTURES IN ABERDEEN FACE CLOSURE ♦ ♦ ♦ » ♦

THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS TO APPLY IN HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON JANUARY 26 NEXT YEAR FOR CLOSURE ORDERS TO BE MADE ON ILLEGAL STRUCTURES ON THE FLAT ROOF ADJACENT TO FLATS C AND D ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF 61-70, OLI) MAIN STREET, ABERDEEN.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE AUTHORITY SAID CLOSING THE STRUCTURES WAS NECESSARY SO THAT DEMOLITION COULD BE CARRIED OUT SAFELY.

NOTICES OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR CLOSURE ORDERS HAVE BEEN POSTED ON THE STRUCTURES.

HF SAID ORDERS TO DEMOLISH THE STRUCTURES WERE ISSUED UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE IN NOVEMBER 1984 AND JUNE 1986, BUT THEY HAD NOT BEEN COMPLIED WITH.

DEMOLITION WORK WOULD BE CARRIED OUT AS SOON AS CLOSURE ORDERS WERE OBTAINED, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

------0-------

/16 .......

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

MEETING TO DISCUSS SAI KUNG ROAD IMPROVEMENTS ♦ t * ♦ ♦

'HIE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE Will MEET ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 26) TO DISCUSS THE PROPOSED MINOR ROAD IMPROVEMENTS IN SAI KUNG DISTRICT.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A SIRV |( I- \RI A AT Till- ENTRANCE TO FUNG ON VILLAGE.

Noli To EDITORS:

\OI ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 26) BEGINNING AT 10 AM IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD, SECOND FLOOR, SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, MAN NIN STREET, SAI EUNG TOWN.

------0-------

URBAN CLEARWAY RESTRICTIONS IN KWAI CHUNG ♦ t i ♦ ♦

TO IMPROVI TRAFFIC FLOW, A NUMBER OF ROAD SECTIONS IN KWAI ( HUNG WILL BE MADE 7 AM TO 7 I’M DAILY URBAN CLEARWAYS FROM 10 AM ON ER I DAV ( NOV EMBER 27 ) .

I HI V ARE:

♦ HII* NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF TAI YUEN STREET FROM ITS JIINCIION WITH KWOK SHUI ROAD TO THE END OF THE STREET.

♦ rill TURN-AROUND AREA AT THE END OF TA I YUEN STREET.

♦ KWOK SHUI ROAD EASTBOUND CARRIAGEWAY FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH TAI YUEN STREET TO ITS JUNCTION WITH LEI MUK ROAD.

I Till KERBSIDE LANE Ol TAI LOONG STREET FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH WO VI HOP ROAD TO UI’S JUNC TION WITH TAI PAK TIN STREET.

NO MIIICLFS WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP WITHIN THE ABOVE URBAN ( || VRWAVS I'OR PASSENGERS OR GOODS.

-------0---------

PROHIBITED ZONE AT ESTATE IN TSING Yl ♦ » ♦ ♦ *

FROM FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 27), NO VEHICLE OTHER THAN k| IL Bl- ALLOWED TO ENTER THE ACCESS ROAD BETWEEN ROAD ON BUS TERMINUS IN TSING Yl AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY.

FRANCHISED

TY18 AND

BUSES

( HI I NG

- - 0--------------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

(SUPPLEMENT)

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1987

TRANSCRIPT OF THE PRESS CONFERENCE GIVEN BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, ON NOVEMBER 24, 1987

GOVERNOR GIVES PRESS CONFERENCE ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

FOLLOWING IS A FULL TRANSCRIPT OF THE PRESS CONFERENCE GIVEN BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, TODAY (TUESDAY):

H.E.: GOOD AFTERNOON. IT IS NICE TO SEE YOU ALL THROUGH THE BARRAGE OF CAMERAS AND IT IS NICE TO KNOW THAT BOTH TELEVISION COMPANIES ARE APPARENTLY OPERATING IN CO-OPERATION!

IT IS SEVEN MONTHS SINCE I CAME TO HONG KONG IN MY PRESENT APPOINTMENT. IT IS SOME SIX MONTHS SINCE J GAVE A PRESS CONFERENCE. A GREAT DEAL HAS BEEN HAPPENING DURING THESE SIX MONTHS AND I THOUGHT IT MIGHT Bl A NICE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET ALL OF YOU PUBLICLY AND TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS THAT YOU WANTED TO PUT FORWARD. MOST OF YOU I HAVE MET OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS. MANY OF YOU I HAVE MET SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS. SO I AM AT YOUR DISPOSAL TO TRY TO ANSWER AN\ OF YOUR QUESTIONS.

DIS: FIRST QUESTION? THE GENTLEMAN IN THE FRONT.

LO WING-HUNG, OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC JOURNAL: THE FIRST QUESTION, CONCERNING YOUR TRIP TO THE UNITED STATES. DURING YOUR TRIP TO THE UNITED STATES IN OCTOBER, HAVE YOU RECEIVED ANY PRESSURE FROM THE U.S. GOVERNMENT CONCERNING THE LINK RATE BETWEEN HONG KONG DOLLARS AND U.S. DOLLARS? THE SECOND QUESTION IS, ABOUT YOUR TRIP TO -- ALSO YOUR TRIP TO CHINA. AS THERE ARE SO MANY RUMOURS CONCERNING YOUR RELATIONS WITH THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT AND ABOUT YOUR TRIP, DO YOU THINK IT IS POSSIBLE FOR YOU TO BRIEF THE LEGCO MEMBERS, LET’S SAY IN IHI OMELCO MEETING, AFTER EVERY VISIT TO CHINA ABOUT THE CONTENT OF THE CONVERSATION BETWEEN YOU AND THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT? I THINK THIS PRACTICE, IT WAS THE PRACTICE DURING THE NEGOTIATION PERIOD. DO YOU THINK IT IS POSSIBLE?

II. E.: THANK YOU. THESE ARE TWO VERY DIFFERENT QUESTIONS. LET

ME TAKE THEM IN ORDER. FIRST OF ALL, THE UNITED STATES. I SAID WHEN I WAS IN THE UNITED STATES THAT THE POINT HAD BEEN RAISED WITH ME OF THE LINK WITH THE U.S. DOLLAR. IT IS A POINT WHICH HAS COME UP BEFORE; FOR INSTANCE, MR BAKER TALKING AT THE I.M.F. CONFERENCE. IT IS A POINT WHICH HAS COME UP MUCH MORE RECENTLY WITH MR MULFORD AND SOME COMMENTS THAT HE HAS MADE. WE HAVE MADE IT QUITE CLEAR THAT WE DO NOT SEF HONG KONG GETTING ANY UNFAIR TRADING ADVANTAGE FROM THE LINK. WE SEE OUR POSITION AS BEING VERY DIFFERENT INDEED FROM THAT OF' SOUTH KOREA OR TAIWAN. IN BOI II THOSE CASES THE UNITED STATES IS VERY’ UNDERSTANDABLY TRYING TO REDUCE THE TRADE DEFICIT BECAUSE HUGE SURPLUSES HAVE BEEN BUILT UP AGAINST THE BACKGROUND OF PROTECTIONIST

BARRIERS. I EXPLAINED IN THE UNITED STATES THAT HONG KONG IS TOTALLY DIFFERENT. WE ARE NOT RUNNING A TRADE SURPLUS. OUR TRADE IS ROUGHLY IN BALANCE. IN FACT WE MAY AT THE END OF THIS YEAR BE SLIGHTLY IN DEFICIT. I ALSO EXPLAINED TO THEM THAT THE PEG ARRANGEMENT IS ONE OF ENORMOUS IMPORTANCE TO THE STABILITY OF HONG KONG AND THE STABILITY

OF THE HONG KONG FINANCIAL SYSTEM AND THEREFORE OUR TRADING AND 1 EXPLAINED TO THEM ALSO THAT FOR THOSE REASONS WE INTENTION OF SHIFTING IT AND I AM BOUND TO SAY THAT WITH MOST

SYSTEM.

HAD NO

OF THE

PEOPLE I WAS TALKING TO I GOT A VERY SYMPATHETIC RESPONSE.

/YOUR SECOND ........

YOUR SECOND QUESTION, GOING ON TO CHINA. I HAVE NOW MADE A TRIP TO CHINA IN SEPTEMBER. 1 AM GOING THIS TIME TO GUANGZHOU, SHANGHAI AND PEKING. THE ORIGINAL REASON FOR THE TRIP WAS TO OPEN A T.D.C. OFFICE IN SHANGHAI AND ON TO THAT I HAVE ADDED A SHORT VISIT TO PEKING AND ALSO TO START WITH A SHORT VISIT TO CANTON. WHENEVER I GO ON A TRIP OF TH IS SORT, 1 BRIEF EXCO IN GREAT DETAIL ABOUT EVERYTHING THAT I HAVE BEEN DOING. IT WOULD NOT, FRANKLY, BE EASY TO BRIEF THE WHOLE OF LEGCO ON EVERYTHING THAT I AM DOING. I MEET THE PRESS WHEN I RETURN AND ANSWER QUESTIONS BUT 1 DON’T THINK IT WOULD BE PARTICULARLY USEFUL TO GO THROUGH A DETAILED DE-BRIEFING SESSION WITH THE WHOLE OF LEGCO. THE IMPORTANT POINT IS THAT 1 SHOULD BRIEF IN GREAT DETAIL ALL THE MEMBERS OF EXCO.

CLAUDIA MO, OF AGENCE FRANCE PRESSE: SIR, ] HAVE TWO QUESTIONS. THE FIRST ONE IS HOW MUCH LONGER DO YOU THINK WE CAN MAINTAIN THIS DOLLAR LINK? AND THE SECOND QUESTION IS, IS IT TRUE THAT MR FORD’S TIGER TALK IS AIMED AT MAINTAINING MORALE WITHIN HONG KONG’S CIVIL SERVICE?

II.E.: IT SEEMS TO BE A SPECIALISATION IN LINKED OR UNLINKED DOUBLE QUESTIONS! LET ME AGAIN TAKE THOSE TWO IN ORDER. WE DO INTEND TO MAINTAIN THAT LINK. NOBODY CAN PREDICT EXACTLY WHAT THE ECONOMIC CIRCUMSTANCES IN 10 YEARS’ TIME WILL BE. THE IMPORTANT POINT IS THAT WE HAVE NO INTENTION AT THE MOMENT OF SHIFTING THAT LINK.

YOUR SECOND POINT, WHAT THE ('ll I EE SECRETARY SAID, J DO BELIEVE THAI' HE WAS CONCERNED THAT THE CIVIL SERVICE FELT THAT MUCH OF WHAT IT WAS DOING HAI) BEEN UNDER ATTACK AND IT WAS THEREFORE RIGHT FOR HIM TO \NSWER CRITICISMS BUT THERE IS MORE TO IT THAN THAT, I SUGGEST. WE ARE A SOCIETY IN WHICH PEOPLE DEBATE ISSUES AND IT IS QUITE RIGHT THAT THEY SHOULD DO SO. IT IS ALSO RIGHT THAT IF THE GOVERNMENT IS UNDER CRITICISM THEN THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD ANSWER BACK AND THAT IS ESSENTIALLY WHAT HE WAS DOING. THERE IS OF COURSE NO INTENTION WHATSOEVER TO TRY TO SUPPRESS CRITICISM. CRITICISM, PARTICULARLY CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM, IS SOMETHING WHICH IS VERY USEFUL FOR A GOVERNMENT AND A GOVERNMENT SHOULD ALWAYS TAKE INTO ACCOUNT. IT IS, HOWEVER, RIGHT I BELIEVE, THAT IE CRITICISED, THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD BE PREPARED TO ANSWER THESE CRIT ICI SMS.

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/H.E............

U.K.: THAT IS A VERY CONSIDERABLE INTERROGATION! WHAT I AM DOING IS GOING TO THE HONG KONG BALLET AND A PERFORMANCE OF NUTCRACKER. IT IS THE GALA OPENING PERFORMANCE OF A SEASON THAT THEY ARE DOING. MY REASON FOR GOING IS QUITE SIMPLY TO SUPPORT THE HONG KONG BALLET WHICH IS A SPLENDID ORGANISATION AND WHICH DOES NEED SUPPORT. IT TURNS OUT THAT PART OF THE SPONSORSHIP FOR THAT ORGANISATION COMES FROM LES MUST DE CARTIER AND PART OF THE SPONSORSHIP FOR THE REST OF THE PROGRAMME, OR THE TOTAL PROGRAMME, ALSO COMES FROM, I THINK, ULTIMATELY THE ROTHMANS GROUP. I DID NOT KNOW ABOUT THAT SPONSORSHIP ARRANGEMENT WHEN I ACCEPTED THE INVITATION. I DO NOT THINK IT WOULD BE RIGHT FOR ME TO WITHDRAW FROM THAT SIMPLY BECAUSE THERE IS AN ELEMENT OF SPONSORSHIP FOR THE WHOLE SERIES COMING ULTIMATELY FROM THE TOBACCO COMPANY. AS FAR AS GOVERNMENT POLICY IS CONCERNED, THE GOVERNMENT IS VERY KEEN TO POINT OUT TO PEOPLE THE HEALTH DANGERS OF SMOKING AND TO TRY TO ENCOURAGE PEOPLE NOT TO SMOKE. AND THAT MEANS THAT WHEN THERE IS A GOVERNMENT SUBVERTED ORGANISATION, THEY ARE ENCOURAGED NOT TO TAKE TOBACCO SPONSORSHIP. PERHAPS THE FINAL COMMENT I MIGHT MAKE IS THAT I KNOW THAT THE HONG KONG BALLET IS LOOKING FOR SUPPORT FROM ELSEWHERE. I AM SURE THAT THEY WOULD WELCOME IT FROM OTHER PLACES, TOO.

FANNY WONG, OF THE ORIENTAL DAILY NEWS: SIR DAVID, IN THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT, IT SUGGESTS NO CLEAR SUPPORT FOR INTRODUCING DIRECT ELECTIONS INTO OUR LEGISLATURE NEXT YEAR. IT DOES INDICATE THAT THERE IS A MAJORITY SUPPORT FOR INTRODUCING DIRECT ELECTIONS BEFORE 1997? IN THAT CASE, WOULD THE GOVERNMENT MAKE A FIRM COMMITMENT ON THE WHITE PAPER THAT WE SHALL HAVE DIRECT ELECTIONS BEFORE 1997?

H.E.: 1 CAN’T TELL YOU EXACTLY WHAT WILL GO INTO THE WHITE PAPER AT THE MOMENT BECAUSE THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL WILL WANT TO TAKE PLENTY OF TIME TO CONSIDER ALL OF THE DETAIL THAT IS IN THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT BEFORE COMING TO DECISIONS ON THE COMPLETE PACKAGE SO I CAN’T GIVE YOU A PRECISE ANSWER TO THE QUESTION BUT I CAN TELL YOU SOMETHING ABOUT THE PARAMETERS WITHIN WHICH THAT DECISION WILL BE TAKEN. I THINK THE PARAMETERS MUST BE SEEN AS THE WAY IN WHICH THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG HAVE RESPONDED. THAT HAS SHOWN THAT MOST OF THOSE WHO TAKE AN INTEREST IN THIS SUBJECT DO BELIEVE THAT THERE SHOULD BE SOME ELEMENT OF DIRECT ELECTIONS BEFORE 1997. IT HAS ALSO SHOWN THAT THERE IS A CONSIDERABLE SECTION OF THE COMMUNITY WHICH HAS NOT RESPONDED, DOESN’T HAVE A VIEW, OR HASN’T PUT FORWARD A VIEW. AND THIRDLY IT HAS SHOWN THAT ON THE QUESTION OF 1988, THE COMMUNITY IS SHARPLY DIVIDED. SO THAT CREATES THE PARAMETERS WITHIN WHICH DECISIONS HAVE TO BE TAKEN. BUT I CAN'T, AS I SAY, TELL YOU PRECISELY WHAT THE DECISIONS IN THE WHITE PAPER WILL BE BECAUSE THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS STILL TO REFLECT ON THE RESULTS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT AND THEN TO GIVE ITS ADVICE AND I EXPECT THAT TO TAKE A FEW WEEKS’ TIME YET.

FANNY WONG: STR S.Y. CHUNG HAD SAID THAT IN THE ASSESSMENT OF THE POLITICAL REVIEW, THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL IS UNDER PRESSURES FROM BOTH CHINA, BRITAIN AND LOCAL PUBLIC OPINION. SO, WOULD YOU SAY WHAT WEIGHT WOULD BE ATTACHED TO EACH OF THESE THREE ELEMENTS, AND WOULD GOVERNMENT BOW TO THE PRESSURE OF CHINA AT THE EXPENSE OF THE LOCAL VIEW?

/H.E

H.E.: THE WAY IN WHICH THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL WILL LOOK AT THIS, I’M'SURE, IS THAT THEY WILL TRY TO REACH A DECISION WHICH THEY BELIEVE TO BE IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG. IN THAT, THE VIEWS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WILL WEIGH VERY HEAVILY INDEED. I DON’T THINK I CAN WEIGH A VIEW, GIVE IT A PRECISE SORT OF NUMBER OF KILOGRAMS. BUT ALL I CAN SAY IS THAT THE VIEWS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, WE SAID RIGHT FROM THE BEGINNING, WOULD BE TAKEN FULLY INTO ACCOUNT. THE GOVERNMENT MEANT THAT, THE GOVERNMENT WILL CARRY OUT THAT COMMITMENT.

JANE HUTCHEON, OF RTHK: SIR DAVID, IS THERE ANY REASON WHY BEFORE THE GREEN PAPER CONSULTATION EXERCISE THE GOVERNMENT COULDN’T HAVE TOLD THE PUBLIC SIMPLY AND CLEARLY THE SITUATION HAD CHANGED SINCE THE WHITE PAPER AND THAT DIRECT ELECTIONS IN 1988 WERE NOT POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF THE BASIC LAW AND CHINA’S OWN FEELINGS TOWARDS THE TIMING OF DIRECT ELECTIONS?

H.E.: THE 1984 WHITE PAPER HAD IN IT TWO CLEAR COMMITMENTS, THREE CLEAR COMMITMENTS. ONE WAS THAT THERE WOULD BE A REVIEW IN 1987 AND THAT WAS PUT FORWARD FROM THE ORIGINAL PROPOSAL OF 1988, THE SECOND WAS THAT THE REVIEW WOULD COVER THE QUESTION OF WHETHER THERE SHOULD BE AN ELEMENT OF DIRECT ELECTIONS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, AND THE THIRD WAS THAT THE POSITION OF THE GOVERNOR AS THE PRESIDENT OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SHOULD ALSO BE COVERED IN THAT REVIEW. THEREFORE, THE GOVERNMENT THOUGHT THAT IT WAS RIGHT TO PUT FORWARD ALL THOSE THINGS WHICH HAD BEEN, THOSE TWO THINGS WHICH HAI) BEEN PROMISED IN THE 1987 GREEN PAPER, AND THAT IT WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN RIGHT TO SAY THAT SOMETHING IS EXCLUDED RIGHT FROM THE BEGINNING. THE CORRECT COURSE WAS TO FIND OUT WHAT THE VIEWS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WERE ON THOSE ISSUES.

JANE HUTCHEON: BUT IF THE SITUATION HAD CHANGED IN THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S OWN HANDS WERE NOW TIED, WOULDN’T IT HAVE BEEN BETTER TO EXPLAIN THAT FROM THE BEGINNING?

H.E.: THE GOVERNMENT SAID WHEN THE GREEN PAPER WAS ISSUED THAT ALL THE OPTIONS IN THE GREEN PAPER WERE REAL OPTIONS, AND THEY PUT FORWARD THOSE OPTIONS WITH THAT CONSIDERATION IN MIND.

KEVIN SINCLAIR, REPRESENTING THE BULLETIN MAGAZINE OF AUSTRALIA: YES, SIR DAVID, ARE YOU PERSONALLY HAPPY WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE DAYA BAY NUCLEAR POWER STATION, THE WAY THAT IT IS BEING DEVELOPED AND HAS GOVERNMENT SOUGHT ANY FRESH REASSURANCES FROM THE AUTHORITIES IN GUANGDONG?

H.E.: I VERY MUCH UNDERSTAND THE CONCERN OF PEOPLE IN HONG KONG THAT THE NUCLEAR POWER PLANT WHICH IS BUILT AT DAYA BAY SHOULD BE TOTALLY SAFE AND IT SHOULD BE BUILT TO HIGH STANDARDS OF CONSTRUCTION. THEREFORE, WHEN SOME NON-CONFORMITY WITH THE ORIGINAL PLAN WAS DISCOVERED IT IS EASY TO UNDERSTAND WHY PEOPLE IN HONG KONG WERE CONCERNED ABOUT THAT. THE GOVERNMENT SHARED THAT CONCERN, IT WAS ALSO ANXIOUS: TWO THINGS, ONE, THAT THE FACT OF NON-CONFORMITY SHOULD BE MADE PUBLIC, SECONDLY, THAT THERE SHOULD BE A REPORT ON IT BOTH ON WHAT HAD HAPPENED AND WHAT REMEDIAL MEASURES WERE GOING TO BE TAKEN. SINCE THE REPORT ON REMEDIAL MEASURES HAS COME OUT THE GOVERNMENT HAS NOT BEEN IN DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE AUTHORITIES IN GUANGDONG ON THIS PARTICULAR ISSUE, BUT THERE HAS OF COURSE BEEN CONTINUING DISCUSSION IN THE JOINT VENTURE COMPANY, AND THE GOVERNMENT HAS TWO DIRECTORS ON THE HONGKONG NIC WHICH FORMS PART OF THAT.

/HARVEY PONG .........

HARVEY PONG, OF WAH KIU YAT PAO: THE GOVERNMENT WAS ACCUSED OF INFLUENCING THE SURVEY COMPANY TO DISTORT THE PUBLIC OPINION. IS THERE ANY TRUTH IN THIS REMARK AND DO YOU CONSIDER IT AS A POSITIVE OR NEGATIVE CRITICISM?

H.E.: LET ME ANSWER THE FIRST PART FIRST BECAUSE THAT’S QUITE SIMPLE. THERE IS NO TRUTH WHATSOEVER IN THE ALLEGATION THAT THE GOVERNMENT TRIED TO INFLUENCE THE SURVEY COMPANY AGB MCNAIR TO COME UP WITH ANY PARTICULAR ANSWER. WHAT WAS DONE WAS THAT THE SURVEY OFFICE WAS TOLD THAT IT COULD EMPLOY A COMPANY TO DO A PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY. IT DID THAT BY A TENDER SYSTEM. IT WAS THEN LEFT TO THE COMPANY ITSELF TO WORK OUT WHAT THE QUESTIONS WOULD BE AND THEN PUT IN THE ANSWERS TO THE SURVEY OFFICE. SO THERE WAS A VERY CAREFUL ATTEMPT TO MAKE SURE THAT THERE SHOULD BE NO APPEARANCE, LET ALONE A REALITY, OF THE GOVERNMENT TRYING TO INFLUENCE WHAT CAME OUT OF THAT REPORT. YOUR SECOND ONE, WAS IT A POSITIVE OR A NEGATIVE CRITICISM? I FIND THAT ONE VERY DIFFICULT TO ANSWER. IT WOULD DEPEND UPON THE SPIRIT IN WHICH IT WAS PUT FORWARD.

MAY WONG, OF TVB NEWS: 1 HAVE TWO QUESTIONS FOR YOU, SIR DAVID. FIRST IS, OVER THE WEEKEND, SIR S.Y. CHUNG MENTIONED PRESSURES FROM CHINA. COULD YOU TELL US AS MUCH AS YOU CAN WHAT THESE PRESSURES ARE, AND SECONDLY, COMING TO YOUR TRIP TO CHINA, THE LAST TIME THAT YOU VISITED BEIJING YOU TALKED TO ZHOU NAN AND YOU SAID THAT YOU DISCUSSED BROAD PRINCIPLES OF CONVERGENCE. COULD YOU TELL WHO YOU WILL BE MEETING AGAIN THIS TIME, AND WHETHER OR NOT YOU WILL EXPAND ON YOUR DISCUSSIONS ON THE CONVERGENCE ISSUE?

II.E.: JUST TO TAKE YOUR LAST BIT FIRST, IF I MIGHT THIS TIME. I’M NOT AWARE OF HAVING SAID THAT I DISCUSSED WITH ZHOU NAN BROAD PRINCIPLES OF CONVERGENCE. BUT THE PEOPLE I WOULD BE MEETING THIS TIME WILL BE THE DEPUTY FOREIGN MINISTER, ZHOU NAN, I SHALL ALSO BE MEETING MR JI PENGFEI, I SHALL BE MEETING MR LU PING, AND MR LI HOU, THAT’S VERY MUCH THE SAME PEOPLE AS I MET LAST TIME. IT’S QUITE A SHORT VISIT TO PEKING INCIDENTALLY. THE FIRST ONE, WHAT SIR S.Y. CHUNG SAID, 1 DON’T, I’M AFRAID, KNOW PRECISELY WHAT SIR S.Y. CHUNG HAD IN MIND. I AM AWARE OF THE FACT THAT THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD OF THE REVIEW VARIOUS THINGS HAD BEEN REPORTED AS BEING A CHINESE VIEW, BUT THEY’VE COME FROM A VARIETY OF DIFFERENT SOURCES. THE OFFICIAL CHINESE GOVERNMENT POSITION ALL ALONG HAS BEEN THAT THE REVIEW IS A MATTER FOR THE BRITISH HONG KONG GOVERNMENT TO CARRY OUT AND THEY HAVE KEPT, AS FAR AS I KNOW, VERY CAREFULLY TO SAYING THAT.

CLAUDIA ROSETT, OF THE WALL STREET JOURNAL: WHAT REACTION HAVE YOU HAD SO FAR FROM THE FOREIGN OFFICE TO THE SURVEY REPORT?

II.E.: I HAVEN’T RECEIVED ANY PRECISE REACTION FROM THE FOREIGN OFFICE TO THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT. THEY ARE OF COURSE AWARE OF EVERYTHING THAT’S IN IT. WE DID HAVE THE HEAD OF THE HONG KONG DEPARTMENT, MR CHRISTOPHER HUM, HERE SPENDING SEVERAL DAYS AFTER THE LAST MEETING OF THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP. SO I HAVE, AND SO HAVE MANY OTHER PEOPLE, TALKED TO HIM ABOUT IT. BUT, THIS IS NOT SOMETHING THAT I WOULD EXPECT TO GET, A FORMAL VIEW FROM THE FOREIGN OFFICE, THAT’S NOT THE WAY THAT THESE THINGS ARE CONDUCTED.

JENNIFER KING, OF RADIO AUSTRALIA: ARE SIR, WITH THE RESULTS OF THE SURVEY REPORT CRITICISMS THAT HAVE BEEN MADE OF IT?

YOU PERSONALLY HAPPY, IN THE LIGHT OF THE

/H.E............

H.E.: I COULDN’T SAY THAT WHETHER I’M HAPPY OR UNHAPPY WITH THE RESULTS OF THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT. IT WAS AN EXERCISE TO TRY TO BE AS OBJECTIVE AS POSSIBLE ABOUT WHAT PEOPLE IN HONG KONG THOUGHT ABOUT A SERIES OF ISSUES. SO WHATEVER THOSE VIEWS ARE, WHETHER I AM HAPPY OR UNHAPPY ABOUT ANY ONE PART OF THEM IS, IS REALLY IRRELEVANT. IF YOU MEAN ABOUT THE WAY IN WHICH IT WAS DONE, I THINK IT’S RIGHT TO SAY THAT THE SURVEY OFFICE CARRIED OUT VERY PRECISELY, THE INSTRUCTIONS THAT IT HAD BEEN GIVEN IN ITS TERMS OF REFERENCE, AND THOSE TERMS OF REFERENCE WERE PUBLIC RIGHT FROM THE BEGINNING. THEY’VE CARRIED OUT THEM OUT EXACTLY, AND WITH GREAT CARE. TWO OTHER POINTS I MAKE ON THAT. ONE IS, THAT THE MASS OF DETAIL THAT COMES WITH THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT, IF YOU READ THE APPENDICES AS WELL, IS VERY INTERESTING INDEED ON THE VIEWS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG ABOUT A WHOLE SERIES OF ISSUES. 1 KNOW IT TAKES A LONG TIME TO READ THROUGH, BUT FOR ANY STUDENT OF HONG KONG SOCIETY, IT’S WELL WORTH READING. THIRD POINT, WHEN THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL COMES TO MAKING DECISIONS ABOUT WHAT SHOULD GO INTO THE WHITE PAPER, IT WILL BE TAKING ACCOUNT OF EVERYTHING THAT APPEARS IN THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT. THERE IS NO QUESTION ABOUT RULING OUT ONE PARTICULAR CURRENT OF PUBLIC OPINION, ONE PARTICULAR FORM OF THE EXPRESSION OF PUBLIC OPINION; ALL OF THOSE VIEWS WILL BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT, HOWEVER THEY WERE PUT FORWARD.

ANTHONY FLORES, OF COMMERCIAL RADIO: HAVE WE BEEN MAKING ANY PROGRESS SINCE THE MEETING THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY HAD WITH BRITISH AUTHORITIES ON THE TERRITORY’S DEFENCE COSTS, AND HOW OPTIMISTIC ARE YOU THAT WE WILL REACH AN AGREEMENT BEFORE THE PRESENT PACT RUNS OUT?

H.E.: WE’RE STILL TALKING. THEY’VE HAD TWO MAJOR ROUNDS OF TALKS AND THEY’VE HAD TALKS AT A LOWER LEVEL BETWEEN OFFICIALS TRYING TO WORK ON SOME OF THE DETAILS. WE HAVEN’T YET REACHED AN AGREEMENT. I CANNOT, AT THIS STAGE, SAY WHEN WE WILL REACH AN AGREEMENT. I CAN’T IN FACT, OF COURSE, SAY WHETHER WE WILL REACH AN AGREEMENT OR NOT, BUT I AM HOPEFUL THAT WE WILL REACH AN AGREEMENT BEFORE THE PRESENT ONE RUNS OUT EARLY NEXT YEAR.

KEVIN SINCLAIR: YES, SIR DAVID, DO YOU THINK THAT IT IS FAIR FOR BRITAIN TO REFUSE TO PAY A HIGH PERCENTAGE FOR THE UPKEEP OF THE GARRISON, AND DO YOU THINK THAT IT IS FAIR FOR HONG KONG TO PAY 75 PER CENT OF THE BILL?

H.E.: I THINK THE ONLY ANSWER THAT I CAN SENSIBLY GIVE TO THAT IS TWOFOLD. ONE, HONG KONG HAS BEEN PAYING PART OF THE GARRISON COSTS FOR A VERY LONG TIME. TWO, HONG KONG ALWAYS TRIES TO MAKE SURE THAT IT PAYS AS LITTLE AS IT POSSIBLY CAN.

ANN QUON, OF THE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST: YOU EARLIER SAID THAT THERE WAS A NEED TO MAINTAIN THE RATE TO THE, OR THE PEG, TO THE U.S. DOLLAR, BUT MAINTAINING THE PEG IS NOT THE SAME AS KEEPING THE RATE AS IT IS PRESENTLY. DO YOU SEE ANY, ARE YOU PLANNING TO RE-PEG OR RE-VALUE THE DOLLAR, AND IF NOT, AT WHAT POINT WOULD YOU CONSIDER DOING SO?

H.E.: I SEE, THANK YOU. I HOPE I DIDN’T LEAVE ANY UNCERTAINTY ABOUT THAT BY MAINTAINING THE PEG I MEANT PRECISELY MAINTAINING THE PEG AT ITS PRESENT LEVEL.

/ANN QUON

ANN QUON: ANY PLANS TO CHANGE IT?

H.E.! NO.

ANN QUON: AT WHAT POINT WOULD YOU CONSIDER DOING SO?

H.E.: CERTAINLY NOT NOW.

K.K. WONG, OF RTHK: WOULD YOU PLEASE CONFIRM OUR REPORT SAYING THAT THE BRITISH GARRISON IN HONG KONG WILL BEGIN TO WITHDRAW BY 1995?

H.E.: THERE ARE NO PRECISE DATES FOR WITHDRAWAL. THE SITUATION IS THAT BY JULY 1, 1997, OBVIOUSLY, THERE CAN BE NO BRITISH GARRISON LEFT HERE. IT FOLLOWS FROM THAT THAT IT WOULD MAKE SENSE TO HAVE SOME SORT OF A RUNDOWN. THERE ARE NOT LIKELY TO BE ANY WITHDRAWALS OF MAJOR UNITS UNTIL THE 1990’S. BUT THE PRECISE PROGRAMME FOR THOSE SORT OF WITHDRAWALS HAS NOT YET BEEN WORKED OUT. AND EVEN WHEN A FRAMEWORK IS PUT IN PLACE IT IS ALWAYS OF COURSE ACCEPTABLE TO REVIEW AND TO CHANGE IT IN THE LIGHT OF CIRCUMSTANCES. NOW, WITHIN THAT OVERALL FRAMEWORK, I THINK IT’S ALSO RIGHT TO SAY THAT ONE WOULD EXPECT TO SEE REDEPLOYMENTS OF MINOR FORCES TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES.

MAGGIE NELSON, OF RTHK: CAN PEOPLE BE CONFIDENT THAT NO DEALS HAVE ALREADY BEEN DONE WITH CHINA OVER DELAYING THE INTRODUCTION OF DIRECT ELECTIONS UNTIL AFTER 1990? AND IS THE GOVERNMENT ADAMANT THAT A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND WILL NOT BE INTRODUCED?

H.E.: THAT IS ANOTHER TWO QUESTIONS WITHOUT AN OBVIOUS LINK! YES, PEOPLE CAN BE CONFIDENT. THERE IS NO DEAL WITH CHINA. I LAST WENT UP TO CHINA IN SEPTEMBER. AT THAT POINT WE DIDN’T KNOW THE RESULTS OF WHAT THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT WOULD BE. I MADE IT CLEAR TO THE CHINESE THAT WE WOULD NOT BE TAKING DECISIONS UNTIL WE HAD SEEN WHAT THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT HAD TO SAY. YOUR SECOND ONE WAS THE PROVIDENT FUND. WHAT WAS THE PRECISE QUESTION? I AM SORRY.

MAGGIE NELSON: IS IT ADAMANT?

H.E.: I SAID IN MY SPEECH TO LEGCO THAT IT WOULD NOT BE INTRODUCED AND THE REASONS FOR IT. AND THE REASONS WERE TWOFOLD. ONE, WE BELIEVE THAT THE PROBLEMS FOR RETIRED PEOPLE, FOR OLD PEOPLE, AND FOR SICK PEOPLE CAN BEST BE DEALT WITH IN ANOTHER WAY AND THAT IS THE WAY IN WHICH I OUTLINED IN MY SPEECH. IT IS TO PROVIDE A MEANS FOR THESE PEOPLE TO LOOK AFTER THEMSELVES WHICH DOES NOT REQUIRE A CONTINUING FORCED CONTRIBUTION FROM THEM. IN OTHER WORDS, IT IS A SCHEME BY WHICH THOSE IN EMPLOYMENT GET PAID A CERTAIN AMOUNT DEPENDING ON THEIR FINAL WAGE AND DEPENDING ON HOW LONG THEY HAVE BEEN IN EMPLOYMENT. IF YOU HAVE A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND SCHEME, FIRST OF ALL IT IS A FORCED SAVINGS WHICH SOME PEOPLE MIGHT NOT LIKE. SECONDLY, IT DOES VERY LITTLE FOR THOSE PEOPLE WHO ARE LOW PAID OR WHO ARE NOT IN WORK BECAUSE THEY CAN’T TAKE PART IN IT. SO THAT IS HALF OF IT. THE OTHER HALF IS THE EFFECT THAT A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND, THAT KIND OF FORCED SAVING, WOULD HAVE ON THE HONG KONG ECONOMY AND THE FLEXIBILITY WHICH HAS ALWAYS BEEN OUR VERY STRONG POINT. AND FOR THOSE TWO REASONS, ONE POSITIVE, ONE NEGATIVE, THE GOVERNMENT DECIDED THAT A CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND WAS NOT THE RIGHT WAY FORWARD FOR HONG KONG.

/EMILY LAU .......

EMILY LAU, OF THE FAR EASTERN ECONOMIC REVIEW: SIR DAVID, I HAVE A QUESTION ON CONFIDENCE AND THE RISING ACTIVITIES OF THE CHINESE COMMUNISTS IN HONG KONG. DO YOU AGREE WITH OBSERVATIONS THAT THE HONG KONG PEOPLE ARE NOW DESPERATELY LOOKING FOR LEADERSHIP, PARTICULARLY IN THE LIGHT OF THE RISING ACTIVITIES OF THE UNITED FRONT AND WHEN THEY DON’T SEEM TO BE GETTING THAT LEADERSHIP FROM EXCO OR LEGCO?

H.E.: PEOPLE HERE, I THINK, WOULD HAVE TO TELL ME WHETHER HONG KONG PEOPLE ARE DESPERATELY LOOKING FOR LEADERSHIP AND WHAT SORT OF LEADERSHIP. IT IS QUITE DIFFICULT, I THINK, IN THE PRESENT CIRCUMSTANCES TO PROVIDE EVERYTHING THAT PEOPLE LOOK FOR. THERE IS A GOVERNMENT HERE WHICH IS EXTREMELY ACTIVE AND ALWAYS HAS BEEN AND WILL GO ON BEING ACTIVE. BUT VERY OFTEN YOU GET A PSYCHOLOGICAL SITUATION WHERE PEOPLE ARE LOOKING FOR MUCH MORE THAN THE GOVERNMENT IS IN A POSITION TO PROVIDE. NOW THE REASONS FOR THAT ARE NOT EASY FOR ANY OF US TO EXPLAIN. IT IS A PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTOR. IF PEOPLE ARE FEELING THAT THEY LACK LEADERSHIP THEN THAT IS A FAILURE OF OUR SYSTEM. WE SHOULD BE TRYING TO CREATE A SOCIETY IN WHICH PEOPLE FEEL THAT THEY ARE FACING THE PROBLEMS OF THE FUTURE TOGETHER, AND I BELIEVE THAT IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR HONG KONG BECAUSE WE DO HAVE PROBLEMS TO FACE. BUT IT MUST BE FACING ALL OF THESE TOGETHER AS A COMMUNITY AND THAT IS BOTH THE GOVERNMENT AND THE PEOPLE, BOTH THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. PRECISELY WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR IN YOUR QUESTION IS VERY DIFFICULT FOR ME TO DISCOVER AND THEREFORE TO ANSWER.

EMILY LAU: SIR DAVID, WHAT I AM SAYING IS, DO YOU AGREE THAT THERE IS THIS RISING INFLUENCE OR INFILTRATION OF THE COMMUNISTS IN THE HONG KONG SOCIETY? DO YOU ACCEPT THAT AS A FACT, FIRST OF ALL? AND DO YOU ALSO ACCEPT THAT THE PEOPLE IN GENERAL ARE VERY WORRIED BY THIS TREND? OF COURSE, IF YOU DISPUTE ALL THAT, THEN THAT IS FINE, BUI IF YOU ACCEPT THAT, THEN WHAT IS THE GOVERNMENT DOING ABOUT IT? I MEAN, OF COURSE WE UNDERSTAND '97 IS A REALITY. OR WOULD YOU LIKE TO COME OUT AND TELL THE PEOPLE THAT THAT IS IT, YOU HAVE TO ACCEPT THAT?

H.E.: LET ME TRY TO ANSWER THAT. FIRST OF ALL, WHAT I NOTICE HAPPENING IS THE DEVELOPMENT OF MANY MORE LINKS WITH CHINA THAN USED TO EXIST BEFORE AND I SEE THAT HAPPENING FOR TWO REASONS. ONE IS STRAIGHTFORWARD ECONOMICS. CHINA IS DEVELOPING, IS OPENING UP. THEREFORE PEOPLE ARE MUCH MORE INVOLVED ECONOMICALLY WITH CHINA THAN THEY EVER WERE BEFORE. SECONDLY, PEOPLE HAVE AN EYE TO THE FUTURE. IN 1997 HONG KONG IS GOING TO BE AN S.A.R. OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA. THEREFORE PEOPLE ARE RE-ESTABLISHING MANY OF THE CONTACTS WHICH THEY USED TO HAVE WITH THE MAINLAND OF CHINA AND WHICH WERE TEMPORARILY BROKEN BECAUSE OF POLITICAL EVENTS IN CHINA. SO THAT IS HAPPENING. THAT PRODUCES A FEELING OF A GREATER DEGREE OF CHINESE INFLUENCE IN THIS TERRITORY. NOW THE NEXT PART OF YOUR QUESTION, WHAT CAN OR SHOULD BE DONE ABOUT IT. FIRST OF ALL, I THINK WE HAVE TO LOOK AT THE REALITY OF THE FUTURE. IN 10 YEARS’ TIME, ROUGHLY, HONG KONG IS GOING TO BE AN S.A.R. OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA. CERTAIN CONDITIONS ARE LAID DOWN FOR THE FUTURE BUT IT IS GOING TO BE A CHANGE. WE MUST BE PREPARING OURSELVES FOR THOSE CHANGES. WE MUST BE TRYING TO BUILD UP A HONG KONG WHICH IS STRONG WITHIN ITSELF SO THAT IT HAS THE BEST POSSIBLE CHANCE OF CARRYING OUT IN PRACTICE THAT HIGH DEGREE OF AUTONOMY WHICH IS PROMISED FOR IT IN THE JOINT DECLARATION. THAT, I THINK, IS THE WAY FORWARD FOR THE COMMUNITY.

/CAROL BOGERT .......

CAROL BOGERT, OF NEWSWEEK: GOVERNOR, I WAS GOING TO ASK YOU IF YOU THINK YOU ARE A LAME DUCK BUT I AM SURE THAT YOU WOULD SAY "NO". AND YET THERE DOES SEEM TO BE AN IMPRESSION IN HONG KONG, AT LEAST IF YOU READ THE PAPERS, THAT THE BRITISH AUTHORITIES IN THIS TOWN HAVE INDEFINABLY LOST SOME KIND OF AUTHORITY IN RECENT MONTHS. NOW GIVEN THE AGREEMENT TO RETURN HONG KONG TO CHINA IN 1997, IS THERE ANYTHING THAT YOUR GOVERNMENT CAN DO TO REGAIN OR TO DISPEL THE IMAGE OF LAME DUCKERY? OR ARE YOU EFFECTIVELY CONSTRAINED FROM MAKING BOLD MOVES THAT SHOW YOU ARE A STRONG AND AUTHORITATIVE GOVERNMENT?

H.E.: PARTS OF THAT QUESTION ARE A SORT OF "WHEN DID YOU STOP BEATING YOUR WIFE?" TYPE QUESTION! LET ME TRY TO ANSWER IT. FIRST OF ALL, A LOT OF YOU WILL HAVE A GREAT DEAL OF FUN RECENTLY WITH WILDFIRING OR DUCKSHOOTING AND BIG GAME HUNTING. SOMETIMES IT SEEMS TO ME THAT THIS TERM "LAME DUCK", WHICH IS AN AMERICAN TERM, IS SINGULARLY INAPPROPRIATE BECAUSE IT IS NORMALLY USED TO DESCRIBE THE POSITION OF AN AMERICAN PRESIDENT RIGHT AT THE END OF HIS TERM OF OFFICE. THIS ADMINISTRATION HAS 10 YEARS TO RUN, THAT IS A REALITY. THAT IS, IN FACT, OVER TWICE THE LENGTH OF TIME THAT ANY BRITISH GOVERNMENT CAN EXPECT TO SURVIVE. IT IS MORE THAN TWICE THE LENGTH OF A PRESIDENTIAL TERM. IT IS RATHER LIKE TALKING ABOUT AN AMERICAN PRESIDENT AS BEING A "LAME DUCK", WHAT IS IT, TWO YEARS BEFORE HE IS FIRST ELECTED. NOW WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT THE FACT THAT PEOPLE TALK IN THESE TERMS. THE BEST THING, AS I SEE IT, IS FOR THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT TO REMAIN AS ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN BUILDING UP THE COMMUNITY, IN BUILDING UP THE ECONOMY, AS IT ALWAYS HAS BEEN. IF YOU GO AND LOOK ROUND HONG KONG, YOU DON’T, I THINK, GET THE IMPRESSION OF A LAME DUCK CREATING ALL THAT IS GOING ON. THERE IS MASSIVE LONG-TERM PROGRAMMES, BUILDING ROADS, BUILDING TUNNELS, DEVELOPING THE CONTAINER PORT, LOOKING AHEAD TO BUILDING A NEW AIRPORT. THERE IS MASSIVE WORK GOING ON THROUGHOUT HONG KONG. THIS IS A VERY ACTIVE GOVERNMENT INDEED. WE DO FACE THE PROBLEM THAT THE PRESENT FORM OF ADMINISTRATION ONLY HAS 10 YEARS TO RUN. THE ONLY WAY THAT WE CAN REALISTICALLY DEAL WITH IT AS A GOVERNMENT IS TO REMAIN AS ACTIVE AND AS COMMITTED AS WE ALWAYS HAVE BEEN AND AS I AM SURE WE ALWAYS WILL GO ON BEING.

STUART PALLISTER, OF ATV: SIR DAVID, DEALING WITH LEADERSHIP QUALITIES, HOW DO YOU ASSESS YOUR PERFORMANCE SO FAR? AND, SECONDLY REGARDING YOUR APPOINTMENT, DO YOU PLAN TO STAY HERE ONLY FOR A FIXED TERM? HAVE YOU IN EFFECT FIXED THE TERM, FIVE YEARS OR WHATEVER?

H.E.: TO ANSWER THE FIRST PART OF THE QUESTION, I DON’T ASSESS MY OWN PERFORMANCE, AT LEAST IN PUBLIC! THAT I LEAVE FOR OTHER PEOPLE TO DO. ON HOW LONG I INTEND TO STAY; THE APPOINTMENT OF A GOVERNOR IS PERHAPS WHAT IS CALLED THE QUEEN’S PLEASURE. IN OTHER WORDS, THAT THERE IS NO FIXED TERM. 1 SHALL STAY HERE AS LONG AS I AM ASKED TO STAY HERE AND AS LONG AS I FEEL THAT I CAN DO A GOOD JOB.

MAGGIE NELSON, OF RTHK : DO YOU ACCEPT THAT HONG KONG’S INTERNATIONAL REPUTATION HAS BEEN SERIOUSLY DAMAGED AS A RESULT OF THE STOCK MARKET’S FOUR DAY CLOSURE? AND, WITH HINDSIGHT, DO YOU THINK THAT YOU SHOULD HAVE RETURNED FROM YOUR TRIP ABROAD EARLIER?

H.E.: ON THE FIRST PART OF THAT QUESTION, I THINK THAT WE HAVE

SUFFERED SOME DAMAGE BUT I DON’T THINK THAT DAMAGE NEED BE SERIOUS OR LONG TERM. NOBODY REALLY LIKES TO SEE A STOCK MARKET CLOSING DOWN. MANY MARKETS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD, EVEN THOUGH THEY DIDN'T CLOSE, WERE VERY CLOSE TO CLOSURE AND THE EXPERTS TELL ME THAT ON MANY MARKETS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD IT WAS IN FACT VERY DIFFICULT INDEED TO TRADE, PARTICULARLY IN CERTAIN STOCKS. SO THE SURPRISE AT THE TOTAL CLOSURE OF OUR MARKET FOR FOUR DAYS WAS PERHAPS NOT AS GREAT ROUND THE WORLD AS PEOPLE IN HONG KONG SOMETIMES THINK IT WAS. THE IMPORTANT THING NOW, I BELIEVE, IS TO MAKE SURE THAT IF THERE ARE LESSONS TO BE LEARNT FROM WHAT HAPPENED, AND SURELY THERE MUST BE LESSONS TO BE LEARNT, THAT WE DO LEARN THEM AND THAT WE IMPROVE OUR STRUCTURES. AND IT IS FOR THAT REASON THAT I HAVE APPOINTED A COMMITTEE IN ORDER TO ADVISE ME WITHIN SIX MONTHS, 1 HOPE, ON WHAT MEASURES NEED TO BE TAKEN. THE QUESTION OF MY OWN TRAVEL PLANS, I AM BOUND TO SAY THAT IF 1 HAD KNOWN THAT ON THE 19TH OF OCTOBER, I THINK IT WAS, WALL STREET WAS GOING TO CRASH I WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN IN WASHINGTON. BUT I GUESS MANY PEOPLE ROUND THE WORLD WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN DOING WHAT THEY WERE DOING IF THEY HAD ALSO KNOWN THE SAME THING. ONCE IT HAD HAPPENED I THEN HAD TO CONSIDER WHETHER IT WAS RIGHT TO CONTINUE WITH MY PROGRAMME WHICH WAS PUTTING ACROSS HONG KONG'S CASE TO LARGE NUMBERS OF VERY INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE IN WASHINGTON OR NEW YORK, OR CUT THAT PROGRAMME AND RETURN. I WAS ABLE TO KEEP CONSTANTLY IN TOUCH WITH HONG KONG ON ALL THE STRATEGIC DECISIONS. I ALSO HAD CONFIDENCE IN THE PEOPLE HERE CARRYING OUT THE DETAIL OF THOSE DECISIONS AND I THEREFORE DECIDED THAT IT WAS MUCH BETTER TO REMAIN IN CONTACT FROM A DISTANCE AND TO CARRY OUT WHAT 1 SAW AS A VERY IMPORTANT PROGRAMME OF PUTTING ACROSS HONG KONG’S CASE ON CAPITOL HILL, TO THE ADMINISTRATION, TO THE MEDIA,

TO INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE IN WASHINGTON AND NEW YORK.

MAGGIE NELSON: CAN 1 ASK IF YOU WERE AT ALL EMBARRASSED THAT THE STOCK MARKET WAS CLOSED WHILE YOU WERE TELLING THEM THE OPEN-MARKET POLICY OF HONG KONG?

H.E.: I WASN’T PARTICULARLY EMBARRASSED. IT QUESTIONS AND I FOUND IT QUITE USEFUL TO BE IN THE TRY TO ANSWER THOSE QUESTIONS, NOT JUST ON SHOULD

RAISED A LOT OF

UNITED STATES TO

THE MARKET HAVE

CLOSED OR SHOULD IT NOT, BUT WHAT ARE THE UNDERLYING REALITIES OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMY. SO 1 DON’T THINK I WAS PARTICULARLY EMBARRASSED BY IT. ON AN OPEN MARKET, THERE IS A DISTINCTION I THINK HERE THAT IS IMPORTANT. I WAS MAKING THE POINT AS STRONGLY AS I COULD THAT HONG KONG IS A MARKET WHICH HAS NO TARIFF BARRIERS AND THAT WAS THE IMPORTANT POINT IN DEALING WITH THE TRADE BILL. I WASN’T TRYING TO MAKE A POINT ABOUT WHETHER WE OPENED FOR 24 HOURS A DAY OR TWO HOURS A DAY OR, INDEED, WHETHER THE STOCK MARKET CLOSED DOWN FOR FOUR DAYS.

JAMES TAM, OF SING PAO: SIR, IF YOU REALLY DIDN’T WANT TO ASSESS YOUR PERFORMANCE IN THE PUBLIC, THEN MAY I ASK YOU IN THE PAST SEVEN MONTHS WHAT ACHIEVEMENT YOU HAVE MADE OR THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT HAS MADE UNDER YOUR LEADERSHIP IN BUILDING UP THE COMMUNITY?

/H.E.........

H.E.: IT IS A SURPRISINGLY DIFFICULT QUESTION FOR ME TO ANSWER OBJECTIVELY AND I DON’T THINK I WILL EVEN ATTEMPT TO DO SO. I THINK THAT REALLY MUST BE LEFT FOR OTHER PEOPLE WHO ARE LOOKING AT THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT OR, INDEED, LOOKING AT ME TO MAKE THEIR OWN ASSESSMENT IN WHATEVER WAY THEY WISH. FOR ME, THESE LAST SEVEN MONTHS HAVE BEEN A TIME WHEN I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO LEARN AS MUCH AS I CAN ABOUT HONG KONG AND VISIT AS MUCH OF HONG KONG AS I CAN. BY THE END OF DECEMBER I WILL HAVE COMPLETED A PROGRAMME OF VISITING ALL THE DISTRICTS OF HONG KONG AND I WILL THEN HOPE NEXT YEAR TO GO ON TO MORE SPECIFIC AREAS. I HAVE A LONG LEARNING PROCESS TO GO THROUGH BUT THE LAST SEVEN MONTHS HAVE BEEN VERY USEFUL STARTING THERE.

JAMES TAM: ARE YOU SUGGESTING THAT YOU ARE STILL A STUDENT IN HONG KONG?

H.E.: YES, I AM.

JAMES TAM: THANK YOU, SIR.

RUBY ONG, OF WEN WEI PO: SIR DAVID, DO YOU THINK THAT MR RONALD LI HAS THE AUTHORITY TO CLOSE THE STOCK MARKET?

H.E.: THE SHORT ANSWER IS YES. THE STOCK MARKET COMMITTEE, IT’S NOT RONALD LI HIMSELF, IT’S THE STOCK MARKET COMMITTEE HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO DO THAT. ONLY THEY HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO DO IT. IT WAS A DECISION FOR THEM TO TAKE, NOT FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO TAKE.

LARRY LEUNG, OF COMMERCIAL RADIO: SIR DAVID, DURING THE LAST TRIP TO CHINA, HAVE THE CHINESE OFFICIALS, APART FROM SAYING THAT THE POLITICAL REVIEW WAS A MATTER FOR THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT, GIVEN YOU THE IMPRESSION THAT CHINA WOULD ACCEPT ANY POLITICAL CHANGES IN HONG KONG NEXT YEAR? AND THE SECOND QUESTION IS ABOUT THE SURVEY REPORT. WOULD THE CHINESE

GOVERNMENT CONSIDER THAT THE SURVEY REPORT WOULD BE HELPFUL TO THEIR STAND? (TRANSLATION FROM CANTONESE)

H.E.: THE SECOND PART OF THAT, WILL THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT FIND IT HELPFUL TO THEM. 1 CAN’T ANSWER. THAT’S THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT PRESUMABLY WHO CAN ANSWER. THE FIRST. I THINK IT HAS BEEN CLEAR ALL ALONG THAT THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT HAS FELT CONCERNED ABOUT THE QUESTION OF WHETHER THERE WOULD BE SIGNIFICANT CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGE IN HONG KONG IN ADVANCE OF THEM PRODUCING THE BASIC LAW. AND THAT IS A POINT WHICH HAS COME ACROSS IN PUBLIC MANY TIMES. I THINK THAT IS PROBABLY THE ANSWER TO THE FIRST PART OF YOUR QUESTION.

FANNY WONG, OF ORIENTAL DAILY NEWS: SIR, AFTER YOUR VISIT TO CHINA, ARE YOU PLANNING ANY VISITS TO LONDON BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR?

H.E.: NOT BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR. NO.

FANNY WONG: WILL THAT BE BEFORE THE PUBLICATION OF THE WHITE

PAPER?

H.E.: "I DON’T KNOW" IS THE ANSWER TO THAT AT THE MOMENT. IT DEPENDS ON VARIOUS OTHER BITS OF MY PROGRAMME. MY GENERAL PROGRAMME WILL BE TO VISIT LONDON REGULARLY, AND THAT IS NOT JUST BECAUSE OF THE GREEN PAPER, WHITE PAPER EXERCISE. IT IS BECAUSE I FIND IT VERY USEFUL TO KEEP IN TOUCH DIRECTLY WITH MINISTERS AND WITH THE FOREIGN SECRETARY. SO I WILL, I HOPE, OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS, OR AS LONG AS 1 AM HERE, BE VISITING LONDON REGULARLY REGARDLESS OF WHAT IS HAPPENING.

FANNY WONG: IN YOUR VISIT TO CANTON, WHAT SORT OF ISSUES WILL YOU RAISE WITH THE GOVERNOR?

H.E.: MOSTLY ECONOMIC RELATIONS BETWEEN HONG KONG AND GUANGDONG PROVINCE. THERE IS AN IMMENSE AMOUNT OF TRADE FLOWING OUT THROUGH HONG KONG FROM GUANGDONG PROVINCE. GUANGDONG HAS NOW OVERTAKEN THE SHANGHAI AREA AS THE LARGEST EXPORTER IN CHINA. MOST OF THAT IS COMING THROUGH HONG KONG. THERE ARE IMPLICATIONS FOR OUR INFRASTRUCTURE IN THAT. SO THAT I THINK WOULD BE THE MAIN AREA THAT WE’LL COVER.

FUNG WAI-KONG, OF THE NEW EVENING POST: I WOULD LIKE TO ASK, WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY SIGNIFICANT CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGES THAT YOU’VE MENTIONED EARLIER, JUST NOW?

H.E.: IT IS ONE OF THOSE THINGS WHICH IS DIFFICULT TO DEFINE. AND AFTER ALL I WAS SAYING WHAT SOMEBODY ELSE THINKS. SO I CAN’T DEFINE WHAT THEY CONSIDER TO BE A SIGNIFICANT CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGE. BUT I THINK YOU CAN IMAGINE THAT SOME THINGS ARE VERY MINOR CHANGES, SOME DO HAVE CONSTITUTIONAL IMPLICATIONS.

CLAUDIA MO, OF AGENCE FRANCE PRESSE: THERE HAS BEEN CRITICISM THAT THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT’S CREDIBILITY IS NOW AT STAKE FOLLOWING THIS CLUMSY HANDLING OF THE STOCK CRISIS AND THE GREEN PAPER SURVEY REPORT. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT IT?

II. E.: I FEEL THAT SOME OF THESE CRITICISMS TEND TO BE

SHORT-TERM ONES, FOR INSTANCE THE STOCK MARKET. WHEN SOMETHING LIKE THAT HAPPENS, IT IS VERY DRAMATIC. A SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF PEOPLE

LOSE MONEY IN IT. THERE IS, THEREFORE, A LOT OF COMMENT WHICH USUALLY

FINISHES UP BY BEING A CRITICISM OF THE GOVERNMENT. IF, AFTER A

PERIOD OF TIME, IT IS SEEN THAT CORRECTIVE ACTION IS BEING TAKEN THEN I BELIEVE AND I CERTAINLY HOPE THAT THAT CRITICISM WOULD BE RE-ASSESSED. ON THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT, I FEEL SURE THAT WHAT PEOPLE IN HONG KONG WILL BE LOOKING FOR IN THE WHITE PAPER, IS A WHITE PAPER WHICH THEY FEEL ACCURATELY REFLECTS THE VIEWS THAT HAVE BEEN PUT FORWARD IN THE WHOLE OF THE SURVEY OFFICE REPORT. THAT IS THE VIEWS OF THE HONG KONG COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE.

END OF TRANSCRIPT.

0 - -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

CONTENTS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987 PAGE NO,

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

ING:

TDC CHAIRMAN POINTS TO IMPRESSIVE DOMESTIC EXPORTS.......... INDUSTRIAL ESTATES CORPN REPORTS GOOD YEAR.................. MAJOR OVERHAUL OF TOBACCO DUTY STRUCTURE ................... INLAND REVENUE AMENDMENT BILL SUPPORTED .................... WIDESPREAD CONSULTATION WITH INDUSTRY ON POLLUTION CONTROLS ANTI-SMOKING MEASURES TAKEN IN CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS .. POLICE GIVEN GUIDELINES ON CAUTIONS ........................ LAW ON GAMBLING CONTROL MAY NEED CLARIFICATION ............. REGULAR CHECKS TO COMBAT ILLEGAL EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN ... PT.ANS TO EXPAND OUTREACH SERVICES FOR ELDERLY .............

UK COUNCIL TO CONDUCT INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW OF POST-SECONDARY COLLEGE....................................... 15

DRIVING PENALTY POINTS SYSTEM CONSIDERED SATISFACTORY...... 1$

ROAD SAFETY WARNING AGAINST EARPHONES ....................... 16

POLICE COMPUTER CHECKS AVERAGE 5,700 A DAY .................. 17

FRESH LOOK AT LAW ON LOITERING.............................

THREE BILLS PASSED ........................................

RAPID ECONOMIC GROWTH CONTINUED IN THE THIRD QUARTER......... 19

LICENCE OF TRAVEL AGENT SUSPENDED.............................. 22

LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK TO REGULATE SECURITY INDUSTRY SOON .... 23

PAC OPEN HEARINGS ST^RT TOMORROW .............................. 24

TP CARD REMINDER FOR MEN BORN IN 1963/64 ....................

DB MEMBERS LEARN ABOUT HOSPITAL REDEVELOPMENT PLAN ............ 26

TENANCIES SOUGHT FOR TWO SITES................................. 27

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

TDC (HAIRMAN

POINTS TO IMPRESSIVE DOMESTIC EXPORTS ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ *

HONG KONG’S DOMESTIC EXPORTS ARE EXPECTED TO RECORD AN IMPRESSIVE GROWTH OF 20 PER CENT BY THE END OF THE YEAR, THE SENIOR MEMBER, Till HON LYDIA DUNN. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY ) .

TABLING THE 1986-87 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, OF WHICH SHE IS (’HAIRMAN, MISS DUNN SAID THAT HONG KONG’S OVERALL TRADE PERFORMANCE RECOVERED WELL DURING THE YEAR UNDER REVIEW, WITH TOTAL TRADE INCREASING BY 18 PER CENT OVER THE PREVIOUS YEAR.

"DOMESTIC EXPORTS LED THE GROWTH WITH 19 PER CENT AND THIS TREND HAS C’ONTI NUM) DURING 1987," SHE SAID.

SHF SAID A NUMBER OF FACTORS HAD MADE THIS STRONG RESURGENCE POSSIBLE. Illi APPRECIATION OF THE YEN AND EUROPEAN CURRENCIES HAD ENHANCED HONG KONG’S COMPETITIVENESS; GENERALLY STRONG CONSUMER DEMAND IN MAJOR MARKETS AND LIBERALISATION IN PREVIOUS RESTRICTED MARKETS HAI) PROVIDED NEW TRADE OPPORTUNITIES.

Wl SIIOl I I) ALSO (JIVE CREDIT TO THF EFFORTS OF OUR MANI FAC II RI RS IN UPGRADING THE QUALITY AND RANGE OF GOODS AND IN MEETING IHI CONSUMER DEMANDS OF EMERGING MARKETS SUCH AS JAPAN," SHE SA I I).

IN IHIS RESPECT, THE WORK OF THE TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL IN IMPROVING IHI IMAGE OF HONG KONG PRODUCTS AND DISCOVERING MARKET POTENTIAL HAD CONTRIBUTED SIGNIFICANTLY, SHE ADDED.

MISS DUNN CAUTIONED THAT SUCH A FAVOURABLE COMBINATION OF CIRCUMSTANCES COULD NOT EXIST INDEFINITELY, AND THERE WAS NO ROOM FOR COMPLAC FNC’Y .

"THE COUNCIL’S EFFORTS WILL BE ALL THE MORE IMPORTANT IF THERE IS ANY SLOWDOWN IN THE INTERNATIONAL TRADING CLIMATE AFTER THE RECENT DISTURBANCE IN THE WORLD’S FINANCIAL MARKETS," SHE SAID.

SHI1’ SAID THE TDC HAD PLANNED AN ENERGETIC PROGRAMME OF PROMOTIONAL EVENTS AND TRADE MISSIONS TO NEWER MARKETS SUCH AS JAPAN, KOREA AND CH I N,Y IN ASIA, TO SPAIN AND TO TURKEY.

"WE WILL KEEP UP THE MOMENTUM IN ESTABLISHED MARKETS, COUNTERING RESTRICTIVE TRADE SENTIMENT IN THF U.S. AND EUROPE AS VIGOROUSLY AS WE CAN," SHE SAID.

IN RESPONSE 1'0 INCREASING DEMAND FOR PARTICIPATION TN TRADE SHOWS AND EXH IB II’IONS, THE TDC WAS EXTENDING ITS INVOLVEMENT IN LOCALLY ORGANISED EVENTS. C ENTRAL TO IHIS EXPANSION WAS THE NEW CONVINTION YXD EXHIBITION (ENTRI' NOW UNDER CONSTRUCT I ON.

/SHE SAID.......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 198?

SIH- SAID SHE WAS PLEASED TO REPORT EXCELLENT PROGRESS ON THE PROJECT. I \RI I ER THIS MONTH, THI- TDC CELEBRATED THE TOPPING 01 T OF SIX-STOREA PODIUM JUST A I. ITT!.I* OVER A YEAR AFTER HER MAJES1Y THE QUEEN LAID THE FOUNDATION STONE.

"WE ARE WELL ON SI HEDDLE FOR OPENING THIS MAGNIFICENT CENTRE AT Till I ND OF NEX T A EAR,” SHE SAID.

hill! A TOTAL AREA OF OVER 100,000 SQUARE METRES, INCLUDING TWO 9 000-SQUARI METRE EXHIBITION HALLS CAPABLE OF ACCOMMODATING 16,000 PEOPLE, THE CENTRE WOULD ENABLE HONG KONG TO CLAIM A LEADING POSITION IN THE*INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION BUSINESS.

"THF MANAGEMENT HAS ALREADY EMBARKED ON AN EXTENSIVE MARKETING PROGRAMMI AND ALREADY REPORTS CONFIRMED BOOKINGS OF ALMOST 200 MAJOR INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION EVENTS OF MORE THAN ONI'. DAY, SHE SAID.

-----0------

INDUSTRIAL ESTATES CORPN REPORTS GOOD YEAR t t t ♦ I

THE HONG KONG INDUSTRIAL ESTATES CORPORATION HAS DISPOSED OF ABOUT 10.7 HECTARES OF LAND THROUGH 16 AGREEMENTS FOR LEASE IN THE PAST YEAR, AND THIS NEARLY DOUBLES THE AVERAGE ANNUAL FIGURE ACHIEVED OVER Till- 10 YEARS OF THE CORPORATION’S EXISTENCE.

Till HON STEPHEN CHEONG SAID THIS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WHEN PRESENTING THE HONG KONG INDUSTRIAL ESTATES CORPORATION ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1986-87. MR CHEONG IS THE CHAIRMAN OF Till' CORPORATION’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS.

NOTING THAT LAND SALES AT THE YUEN LONG INDUSTRIAL ESTATE HAD EXCEEDED THOSI AT THE TAI PO INDUSTRIAL ESTATE FOR THE FIRST TIME, MR CHEONG SAID THAT, WITH Till GOVERNMENT’S AMBITIOUS PLANS FOR UPGRADING Illi INERASTRI.T CURE OF THE NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES, HE WAS SURE YUEN LONG WOULD PROVE TO BE AN INCREASINGLY ATTRACTIVE LOCATION FOR BOTH FORE I GN AND DOMES'! IC I NVESTORS .

DURING THE YEAR, SIX SINGLE-STOREY STANDARD FACTORIES HAD BEEN COMPLETED AND ALL WERE OCCUPIED BY rill END OF 1986. TO ASSIST THOSE MANDIACTURI RS WHO WISHED TO START PRODUCTION WITH A MINIMUM OF DELAY, TWO MORE UNITS W1RI TO BE BUI I. T AT YUEN LONG AND THESE SHOULD BE RF ADA FOR OCCUPATION BA THE END OF 1988, HE ADDED.

I HANES TO THE FAVOURABLE RESULTS ACHIEVED IN TERMS OF LAND DISPOSAL, Till. CORPORATION MADE A SUBSTANTIAL REPAYMENT TO THE DI \ I LOl'MEN’l LOAN FUND OF $112.3 MILLION.

/’’ALSO, LAND...........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

"ALSO, LAND FORMATION WORKS ON THE TWO ESTATES CAME TO AN END IN THE SUMMER OF THIS YEAR, AND FURTHER EXPENDITURE IS THUS REDUCED TO THE MINIMUM LEVELS REQUIRED FOR JUST ADMINISTRATION AND ESTATE MANAGEMENT,” MR CHEONG SAID.

TURNING TO PROSPECTS FOR 1987-88, MR CHEONG SAID THE SITUATION WAS VERY ENCOURAGING, AS IN THE FIRST SEVEN MONTHS OF THIS YEAR, THE CORPORATION HAD ALREADY BROKEN THE RECORD FOR A FULL YEAR, SEI IN 1985-86, BY DISPOSING OF ABOUT 11.5 HECTARES OF LANI).

FURTHERMORE, REVENUE IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS HAD AMOUNTED TO ABOUT $110 MILLION, WHICH ALMOST DOUBLED THE CORPORATE TARGET.

MR CHEONG SAID THAT, IN THE FULL YEAR, THE CORPORATION EXPECTED TO HAVE DISPOSED OF ABOUT 20 HECTARES OF LAND. LONGER TERM, ASSUMING THAT ADVERSE EFFECTS OF THE RECENT WORLDWIDE STOCK MARKET CRASH WOULD NOT PRECIPITATE A DEEP RECESSION OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS, IT WAS CONFIDENT THAT IT WOULD BE ABLE TO MEET ITS OBLIGATION TO THE DEVELOPMENT LOAN FUND IN FULL.

TURNING TO THE FUTURE, MR CHEONG WARNED THAT THERE WAS NO ROOM FOR COMPLACENCY, AS LANI) SUPPLY AT TAI PO WOULD BE VIRTUALLY EXHAUSTED BY THE END OF 1987-88, LEAVING SOME 50 HECTARES OF LAND AVAILABLE, ALL AT YUEN LONG.

"AT THE PRESENT RATE OF LAND DISPOSAL, WHATEVER SUPPLY THAT IS AVAILABLE AT YUEN LONG COULD WELL BE EXHAUSTED WITHIN FIVE YEARS’ TIME. ALSO IT IS A FACT THAT ANY INFRASTRUCTURAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REQUIRES A LONG LEAD TIME.”

FOR THESE REASONS, THE CORPORATION HAD ASKED THE GOVERNMENT TO GRANT A SITE TO DEVELOP HONG KONG’S THIRD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, MR CHEONG SAID, ADDING THAT HE WAS PLEASED TO REPORT THAT THIS PROJECT HAD BEEN ENDORSED IN PRINCIPLE BY THE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD AND, HOPEFULLY, THE FIRST PHASE OF A NEW ESTATE WOULD BE READY FOR OCCUPATION IN 1992-93.

MR CHEONG SAID THAT THE OVERSEAS AND LOCAL INVESTMENT PROJECTS ATTRACTED TO THE ESTATES REPRESENTED A CLEAR, STRONG VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN THE ABILITY OF THE LOCAL WORKFORCE TO ABSORB NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND SKILLS.

ADDITIONALLY, THE ESTATES HAD SUCCEEDED IN ATTRACTING A NUMBER OF COMPANIES WHICH PRODUCED THE SORT OF PRECISION COMPONENTS, PARTS AND SMALL MECHANISMS THAT HONG KONG’S MAIN-LINE MANUFACTURERS NEEDED FOR THE ASSEMBLY OF HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS.

THESE INVESTORS REPRESENT A GROWING FORCE IN OUR SUPPORTING AND LINKAGE INDUSTRIES AND IT IS PERHAPS SIGNIFICANT THAT, OUT OF 541 FOREIGN COMPANIES SURVEYED FOR THEIR ACTIVITIES IN 1986, NO FEWER THAN 42 PER ('ENT EXPRESSED SATISFACTION OVER THE IMPROVING QUALITY OF THESE VITAL INDUSTRIES,” MR CHEONG SAID.

FINALLY, HE SAID THE ESTATES HAD ALREADY PROVED THEIR WORTH IN PROMOTING THE QUALITY OF HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL BASE, AND IN THE YEARS AHEAD THEY WOULD BE OF IMMENSE IMPORTANCE TO THE TERRITORY’S INDUSTR I Al. DEVELOPMENT.

- 0-----------

/4........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

MAJOR OVERHAUL OF TOBACCO DUTY STRUCTURE *****

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR PIERS JACOBS, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) ANNOUNCED A MAJOR OVERHAUL OF THE CURRENT TOBACCO DUTY STRUCTURE.

WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT, DUTY ON CIGARETTES WILL NO LONGER BE LEVIED ON A WEIGHT BASIS. INSTEAD, IT WILL BE LEVIED ON A "PER CIGARETTE" BASIS AND APPLIED ONLY TO THOSE CIGARETTES WHICH ARK DESTINED FOR THE LOCAL MARKET, WHETHER THEY ARE LOCALLY MADE OR IMPORTED.

MR JACOBS TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THAT A PUBLIC REVENUE PROTECTION ORDER PROVIDING FOR THE CHANGE HAD BEEN SIGNED, AND HE EXPLAINED THAT THE KEY AIMS WERE SIMPLICITY AND EVENHANDEDNESS.

"THE NEW SYSTEM WILL HAVE A NUMBER OF ADVANTAGES. IT WILL BE EASY TO ADMINISTER. IT WILL OBVIATE THE NEED FOR A DRAWBACK SYSTEM. AND IT WILL REMOVE PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH MANUFACTURING LOSS ALLOWANCE AND WEIGHT ADJUSTMENTS.

"IN ADDITION, IT WILL PROVIDE US WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO REMOVE THE DUTY DIFFERENTIAL BETWEEN LOCALLY MADE AND IMPORTED CIGARETTES, AND THIS WILL NO DOUBT BE WELCOMED BY OUR TRADING PARTNERS," MR JACOBS SAID.

ON THE BASIS THAT THE CURRENT LEVEL OF REVENUE YIELD IS TO BE MAINTAINED AND ASSUMING NO CHANGE IN CONSUMPTION PATTERN, MR JACOBS ANNOUNCED A UNIFORM DUTY RATF OF $165 PER 1,000 CIGARETTES FOR BOTH LOCAL AND IMPORTED BRANDS.

DUTIES ON OTHER TOBACCO PRODUCTS, SUCH AS CIGARS AND SNUFF, WILL CONTINUE TO BE LEVIED ACCORDING TO WEIGHT, GIVEN THEIR IMMENSE DIVERSITY IN SIZE AND QUALITY.

MR JACOBS STRESSED THAT THE DUTY RATE WAS INTENDED TO BE "REVENUE NEUTRAL" AS REGARDS THE OVERALL DUTY PAID ON PRODUCTS RELEASED TO THE LOCAL MARKET.

"IN FACT, HOWEVER, THIS CHANGE IS LIKELY TO RESULT IN A REDUCTION IN THE DUTY REVENUE COLLECTED IN THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR BY SOME $290 MILLION. THE BULK OF THIS FIGURE REPRESENTS THE DUTY THAT, ON THE CURRENT SYSTEM, WOULD HAVE BEEN COLLECTED IN 1987-88 BUT LATER PAID BACK TO MANUFACTURERS IN 1988-89 IN RESPECT OF EXPORTED CIGARETTES.

"IN THE NEXT FINANCIAL YEAR REVENUE WILL NOT BE DISTORTED BY PRE-PAYMENTS AND DRAWBACKS, AND SHOULD REVERT TO A LEVEL SIMILAR TO THAT EXPERIENCED IN PREVIOUS YEARS," MR JACOBS SAID.

/HE SAID ........

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

5 -

HE SAID THAT IF HE HAD LEFT THE CHANGE UNTIL THE NEXT BUDGET, IT WOULD MERELY HAVE MEANT THAT THE EFFECTS OF ANY REVENUE DISTORTION WOULD MOSTLY HAVE BEEN FELT IN 1988-89 INSTEAD OF IN THIS FINANCIAL YEAR. INTRODUCING THE CHANGES NOW WOULD HAVE THE ADVANTAGE OF CONFINING ALL THE DISTORTION WITHIN THIS FINANCIAL YEAR. THIS WOULD ENABLE THE NEW SYSTEM TO OPERATE THROUGHOUT 1988-89.

”1 SHOULD STRESS AGAIN THE NATURE OF THIS DISTORTION. IT DOES NOT REPRESENT A GIFT TO THE MANUFACTURERS. IT SIMPLY REPRESENTS THE EARLIER THAN USUAL REPAYMENT OF MONEY THAT WOULD BE DUE TO THEM ANYWAY IN RESPECT OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS EXPORTED FROM HONG KONG,” HE SAID.

ON THE EFFECT OF THE REMOVAL OF THE DIFFERENTIAL ON LOCAL MANUFACTURERS, MR JACOBS SAID ALTHOUGH IT WAS DIFFICULT TO MAKE A DETAILED ASSESSMENT, IT WAS PERHAPS USEFUL TO NOTE THAT OVER 80 PER CENT OF LOCALLY MADE CIGARETTES WERE EXPORTED AND THUS WERE CURRENTLY ELIGIBLE FOR DRAWBACK OF DUTIES.

ADDITIONALLY, UNDER THE NEW DUTY REGIME ALL MANUFACTURERS WILL GAIN THE BENEFIT OF AVOIDING THE NEED TO PREPAY DUTY, AND THEN IN DUE COURSE TO APPLY FOR DRAWBACK OF DUTY, ON PRODUCTS DESTINED FOR EXPORT.

"FURTHERMORE, THE RATE OF DIFFERENTIAL HAS BEEN REDUCED OVER THE YEARS, AND GOVERNMENT HAS ON A NUMBER OF OCCASIONS STATED ITS INTENTION OF ELIMINATING THE DIFFERENTIAL ALTOGETHER. THE LOCAL TRADE HAS BEEN WARNED THAT GOVERNMENT COULD NOT ASSURE THEM FOREVER THE RELATIVE BENEFITS THAT THEY HAVE ENJOYED IN THE PAST,” MR JACOBS SAID.

CONCERNING THE EFFECT ON CIGARETTE RETAIL PRICES, MR JACOBS EXPECTS IT TO VARY BETWEEN BRANDS DEPENDING ON THEIR CURRENT TOBACCO WEIGHT ('(INTENTS. HEAVIER THAN AVERAGE CIGARETTES WILL ATTRACT LESS DUTY THAN BEFORE. LIGHTER THAN AVERAGE CIGARETTES WILL ATTRACT MORE DUTY THAN BEFORE.

"THERE WILL BE ‘WINNERS’ AND ‘LOSERS’ AMONGST BOTH IMPORTED AND LOCALLY MANUFACTURED BRANDS. AS REGARDS ACTUAL RETAIL PRICES, IT WILL BE UP TO THE MANUFACTURERS TO DECIDE WHETHER OR NOT TO ABSORB DUTY INCREASES INTO CURRENT RETAIL PRICES AND CONVERSELY WHETHER OR NOT PASS ON THE BENEFITS OF DUTY DECREASES TO CONSUMERS ,’r HE SAID.

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY WILL IN DUE COURSE INTRODUCE INTO THE COUNCIL AN AMENDMENT BILL TO THE DUTIABLE COMMODITIES ORDINANCE TO FORMALISE THE CHANGES.

-----0------

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

- 6 -

INLAND REVENUE AMENDMENT BILL SUPPORTED *****

TWO MEMBERS OE THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, THE HON PETER POON AND DR THE HON HELMUT SOHMEN, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) SPOKE IN SUPPORT OF THE INLAND REVENUE (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL WHICH SOUGHT TO EXEMPT FROM LIABILITY TO HONG KONG SALARIES TAX ANY INCOME THAT A PERSON DERIVED FROM SERVICES RENDERED OUTSIDE HONG KONG IF IT COULD BE ESTABLISHED THAT TAX HAI) BEEN PAID THERE IN RESPECT OF SUCH INCOME.

SPEAKING IN THE COUNCIL DURING THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE BILL, MR POON SAID THE BILL WAS FAIR AS IT TOOK AWAY THE ELEMENT OF DOUBLE TAX IMPOSED BY HONG KONG.

MR POON, CONVENOR OF THE AD HOC GROUP THAT STUDIED THE BILL, SAID THE GROUP RECEIVED TWO REPRESENTATIONS AND HAD ONE MEETING WITH THE. ADMINISTRATION. MEMBERS WERE GENERALLY SATISFIED WITH THE EXPLANATIONS GIVEN BY THE ADMINISTRATION ON THE POINTS RAISED IN THESE REPRESENTATIONS.

MEMBERS ALSO UNDERSTOOD THAT CONSULTATION HAD BEEN UNDERTAKEN WITH VARIOUS PROFESSIONAL AND OTHER BODIES, INCLUDING CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE, BEFORE THE BILL WAS PUBLISHED AND THE BILL HAD BEEN REFINED AS A RESULT OF SUCH CONSULTATION.

"ONE DIFFICULTY, HOWEVER, DESERVES OUR CONCERN I THE BILL REQUIRES THAT TAX SHOULD BE PAID BEFORE RELIEF IS GIVEN.

"BECAUSE OF THE DIFFERENCE IN THE TIME OF ASSESSMENT OR THE PAYMENT OF TAX ELSEWHERE, EVIDENCE OF PAYMENT OF TAX MAY NOT BE ABLE TO BE PROVIDED BY THE TAXPAYER WHEN THE SALARIES TAX ASSESSMENT IS MADE BY THE COMMISSIONER OF INLAND REVENUE IN HONG KONG," MR POON EXPLAINED.

NEVERTHELESS, THE COMMISSIONER HAD ASSURED THE AD HOC GROUP THAT HE WOULD BE PREPARED, IN APPROPRIATE CIRCUMSTANCES, TO HOLD OVER SUCH TAX ON PRODUCTION OF PROOF OF OVERSEAS TAX LIABILITY AND DISCHARGE THE TAX ON SUBSEQUENT PRODUCTION OF EVIDENCE OF PAYMENT.

"THIS SOLUTION APPEARS TO BE FAIR AND ACCEPTABLE AND I HOPE THAT THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY CAN CONFIRM THE ARRANGEMENTS IN HIS REPLY," MR POON SAID.

HE ADDED THAT THE AD HOC GROUP DID NOT CONSIDER REASONABLE OR APPROPRIATE THE SUGGESTION THAT HONG KONG SHOULD GIVE UP TAX DUE TO IT BY HONG KONG EMPLOYEES ON INCOME EARNED FOR SERVICES RENDERED IN HONG KONG MERELY BECAUSE OTHER COUNTRIES TAXED THEM ON A WORLDWIDE BASIS ON ACCOUNT OF CITIZENSHIP OR RESIDENCE.

DR SOHMEN SAID THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION WENT A LONG WAY TO ACHIEVING DOUBLE TAXATION RELIEF IN AN EQUITABLE MANNER CREATING, HOPEFULLY, FEWER ADMINISTRATIVE DIFFICULTIES.

/ON THE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

ON THE ONE HANI), PROVISIONS IN THE BILL WERE MORE PRECISE THAN AUTOMATIC TIME APPORTIONMENT FOR PERSONS SUBJECT TO SALARIES TAX RENDERING SERVICES OUTSIDE HONG KONG FOR MORE THAN 60 DAYS IN TOTAL.

ON THE OTHER HAND, THE PROVISIONS WERE MORE SWEEPING IN A SENSE, SINCE ONCE THE CONDITIONS TN SECTION 2 OF THE BILL WERE MET, HONG KONG TAX RELIEF WAS FULLY AVAILABLE IRRESPECTIVE OF THE ACTUAL QUANTUM OF TAX PAID IN THE OTHER JURISDICTION, DR SOHMEN NOTED.

"WHILE TAX LAWS ARE MORE REGULARLY COMMENTED UPON OR CRITICISED BY THOSE DEFENDING THE POSITION OF THE TAXPAYERS, AS LEGISLATORS WE MUST ASSURE OURSELVES THAT PROPOSED TAX LEGISLATION ALSO ADEQUATELY PROTECTS THE REVENUE," HE CONTINUED.

AS SUCH, HF WAS CONCERNED THAT THE TERMINOLOGY IN CLAUSE 2(C)(1) OF THE BILL - REFERRING TO "SUBSTANTIALLY THE SAME NATURE AS SALARIES TAX" WHEN DESCRIBING THE INCOME CHARGEABLE TO TAX ELSEWHERE -MIGHT CREATE LOOPHOLES THROUGH INTERPRETATIVE DIFFICULTIES tN DETERMINING WHETHER SUCH INCOME WAS OF THE SAME NATURE.

"AFTER ALL, MOST OTHER JURISDICTIONS DO NOT HAVE AS SIMPLE A TAX STRUCTURE AS HONG KONG," HE NOTED.

THE AD HOC GROUP, HOWEVER, RECEIVED REPLIES FROM THE ADMINISTRATION TO THE EFFECT THAT SINCE SALARIES TAX IN HONG KONG WAS GENERALLY RECOGNISED AS SUBSTANTIALLY SIMILAR TO INCOME TAX ELSEWHERE, THE ADMINISTRATION COULD SER FEW PROBLEMS ARISING IN THE APPLICATION OF THIS PROVISION.

MOREOVER, THE ADMINISTRATION ADVISED THAT THE VERIFICATION OF A(•IUAL TAX PAID ELSEWHERE WOULD CREATE NO PRACTICAL DIFFICULTIES.

"THESE ASSURANCES, TOGETHER WITH THE OTHER CLARIFICATIONS WHICH WILL BE MADE BY WAY OF PRACTICE NOTES AS MENTIONED BY MR PETER POON, MAKE MF CONFIDENT THAT THIS BILL IS A GOOD ONE.

"I AM NOT BOTHERED BY THE DISTINCTION BETWEEN HONG KONG AND NON-HONG KONG EMPLOYMENTS WHICH WILL CONTINUE TO BE DRAWN IF WE MAINTAIN OUR SOURCE-BASED SYSTEM.

"THE ALLEGED DISADVANTAGES TO HONG KONG BELONGERS IN COMPARISON TO EXPATRIATES UNDER THE SCOPE OF THIS BILL ARE NOT OF A NATURE THAT WOULD SUGGEST A NERD FOR A CHANGE IN THE APPROACH, DR SOHMEN CONCLUDED.

WINDING UP THE DEBATE ON THE BILL, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON PIERS JACOBS, SAID THAT HE WAS GRATEFUL FOR THE COMMENTS MADE BY MR POON AND DR SOHMEN, AND FOR THEIR SUPPORT.

HE SAID: "MR POON HAS REFERRED TO A DIFFICULTY WHICH MIGHT ARISE WHERE AT THE TIME HONG KONG TAX IS ASSESSED, FOREIGN TAX, ALTHOUGH CHARGEABLE, HAS NOT ACTUALLY BEEN PAID.

/"I CAN

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

"I CAN CONFIRM THAT IN THIS SITUATION, THE COMMISSIONER OF INLAND REVENUE WILL, WHERE JUSTIFIED, APPLY THE DISCRETIONARY POWERS III HAS INDER THE ORDINANCE TO HOLD OVER PAYMENT OF THE HONG KONG TAX.

"UPON APPLICATION, THE COMMISSIONER WILL HOLD OVER PAYMENT OF THAT PART OF THE TAX ASSESSED WHICH IS ATTRIBUTABLE TO SERVICES RENDERED IN THE FOREIGN TERRITORY.

"ONCE THE FOREIGN TAX HAS BEEN PAID AND PROOF THEREOF SUBMITTED BY THE TAXPAYER, THE HONG KONG TAX WILL BE DISCHARGED."

MR JACOBS ALSO NOTED THAT DR SOHMEN’S INITIAL CONCERN OVER THE PHRASE "SUBSTANTIALLY THE SAME NATURE AS SALARIES TAX" HAD BEEN RELIEVED BY ASSURANCES GIVEN AT A MEETING BETWEEN THE AD HOC GROUP AND Till ADMINISTRATION.

I HF COMMISSIONER HAS ALSO ASSURED ME THAT ON THIS POINT THAT HF FORESEES NO REAL DIFFICULTY.

"HE WILL ENLARGE UPON THE PHRASE IN THE PRACTICE NOTE TO BE I SSI ED AFTER THIS BILL HAS BECOME LAW WITH A VIEW TO PREVENTING ANY MISINDERSTANDING AS TO JUST WHAT TAXES HE REGARDS AS SUBSTANTIALLY THE SAME NATURE AS OUR SALARIES TAX," HE SAID.

- - 0 - -

WIDESPREAD CONSULTATION WITH INDUSTRY ON POLLUTION CONTROLS

******

BEFORE POLLUTION CONTROL LEGISLATION IS INTRODUCED, THERE IS ALWAYS WIDESPREAD CONSULTATION WITH INDUSTRIAL BODIES AND THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT DOES GIVE TECHNICAL ADVICE ON POLLUTION MATTERS, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, THE HON JOHN CHAMBERS, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY PROFESSOR THE HON POON CHUNG-KWONG, MR CHAMBERS SAID: "WHERE LEGISLATION IS ALREADY IN PLACE, SPECIFIC INFORMATION IS SUPPLIED ON AIR POLLUTION ABATEMENT MEASURES, CHIMNEY APPLICATIONS, SEWAGE, WASTE WATER TREATMENT AND SIMILAR MATTERS.

"FORMAL ADVICE IS ALSO PROVIDED TO INDUSTRY THROUGH THE ISSUE OF CODES OF PRACTICE, SUCH AS THE RECENT CODES ON THE USE OF ASBESTOS."

HE SAID THAT IN THE COURSE OF ESTABLISHING POLLUTION CONTROLS IN HONG KONG, IT HAD BEEN THE EXPERIENCE THAT MOST INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS TOOK LITTLE NOTICE OF ADVICE ON POLLUTION REDUCTION METHODS IN ADVANCE OF THE INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATIVE CONTROLS.

/HE added

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

- 9 -

III'. ADDED THAT THIS WAS PERHAPS NOT DIFFICULT TO UNDERSTAND, LIVEN THAI' INDUSTRIALISTS WISHED TO AVOID PLACING THEMSELVES AT WHAT THEY PERCEIVED MIGHT BE A COMPETITIVE DISADVANTAGE, WHEN THERE WAS NO (OMPI I.SION ON THEIR COMPETITORS TO DO THE SAME.

MR CHAMBERS SAID PUBLICITY MATERIAL ON THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE AND THE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE HAI) BEEN WIDELY CIRCULATED AND PROSPECTIVE TENANTS OF THE INDUSTRIAL ESTATES WERE PROVIDED WITH INFORMATION ON ENVIRONMENTAL REQIII RFMENTS .

EVERY OPPORTUNITY IS TAKEN TO BRIEF INDUSTRY THROUGH l'l< UN I CAL JOURNALS AND PROFESSIONAL SEMINARS, AND THE ENVIRONMENTAL DIVISION OF THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL, WHICH IS SUBVENTED BY Till GOVERNMENT AND WORKS CLOSELY WITH THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT, IS A PRIME SOURCE OF DETAILED ADVICE ON INDUSTRIAL POLLUTION PROBLEMS," HE SAID.

II IS THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY TO MINIMISE THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OE POLLUTION CONTROLS AND TO EMPHASISE TO INDUSTRIALISTS THAT MODERN, ENVIRONMENTALLY ACCEPTABLE PLANT IS OFTEN MORE EFFICIENT AND COST-EFFECT1VE.

"MOREOVER, UP TO 70 PER CENT OF CAPITAL INVESTMENT IN NEW PLANT IS, 1 UNDERSTAND, TAX DEDUCTIBLE," HE ADDED.

MR CHAMBERS POINTED OUT THAT ALTHOUGH MUCH ADVICE AND ASSISTANCE WAS GIVEN TO INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ON POLLUTION CONTROLS, PREVENTION OF POLLUTION WAS PART AND PARCEL OF THE EFFICIENT OPERATION OF AN INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISE.

"INDUSTRIALISTS THEMSELVES MUST, THEREFORE BE ULTIMATELY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE POLLUTION WHICH THEY CAUSE. IT’S UNACCEPTABLE FOR THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC COST OF SUCH POLLUTION TO BE A GENERAL CHARGE ON THE COMMUNITY RATHER THAN AN INDIRECT CHARGE THROUGH THE COST OF THE PRODUCT; THAT IS TO THE EXTENT THAT ADDITIONAL COSTS ARE INVOLVED,WHICH IS BY NO MEANS ALWAYS THE CASE," HE SAID.

--------o ----------

/10 .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

10 -

ANTI-SMOKING MEASURES TAKEN IN CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS » * » » *

ANTI-SMOKING POSTERS AND LITERATURE ARE WIDELY PUBLICISED AND DISPLAYED THROUGHOUT CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON DAVID JEAFFRESON, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

REPLYING A QUESTION BY DR THE HON HENRIETTA IP, MR JEAFFRESON SAID THE COMMISSIONER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES WAS WELL AWARE OF THE GOVERNMENT’S ANTI-SMOKING POLICY.

"IN KEEPING WITH THIS POLICY, HEALTH TALKS ON THE ILL EFFECTS OF SMOKING ARE ORGANISED AND ALL ADULT PRISONERS ARE REQUIRED TO ATTEND," MR JEAFFRESON SAID.

"IN OTHER WORDS, THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT ADOPTS THE SAME APPROACH OF PERSUASION AND EDUCATION AS IN GOVERNMENT’S ANTI-SMOKING CAMPAIGN FOR THE PUBLIC AT LARGE.’'

MR JEAFFRESON EXPLAINED THAT THE ISSUE OF CIGARETTES TO ADULT PRISONERS HAI) EXISTED FOR A LONG TIME AND A HIGH PROPORTION OF MALE PRISONERS WERE ’SMOKERS.

HE SAID IT WOULD THEREFORE BE DIFFICULT TO WITHDRAW THE PRACTICE WITHOUT CAUSING SERIOUS REACTIONS IN THE ADULT INSTITUTIONS.

MR JEAFFRESON ALSO SAID THAT CIGARETTES WERE ISSUED ONLY TO ADULT PRISONERS (AGED 21 OR ABOVE) WHO HAD INDICATED THAT THEY WERE SMOKERS. YOUNG PRISONERS AND INMATES OF TRAINING AND DETENTION CENTRES WERE NOT ALLOWED TO SMOKE.

-----o------

POLICE GIVEN GUIDELINES ON CAUTIONS ♦ » » » »

THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE HAS ISSUED OFFICERS ON GIVING CAUTIONS IN THE CASE OF PARTICULARLY MINOR TRAFFIC OFFENCES, THE SECRETARY HON DAVID JEAFFRESON, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

GUIDELINES TO HIS

MINOR OFFENCES, FOR SECURITY, THE TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHUNG PUI-LAM ----------------------------- THE POLICEMAN

SAID THE IMPORTANT FACTORS CONSIDERATION WERE THE NATURE

DEMEANOUR OF THE OFFENDER

AND

THAT OF i THE

THE OFFENCE, THE

ABSENCE OF ANY

, MR JEAFFRESON

MUST TAKE INTO INTENTION AND HARM DONE OR

AGGRIEVED PARTY.

/he said .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVE®Si 2$, 1?87

11 -

HE SAID THAT IN NOVEMBER LAST YEAR, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL HAI) ISSUED GUIDELINES TO THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION ON OCCASIONS WHEN IT MIGHT BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST FOR ICAC OFFICERS FORMALLY TO CAUTION ADULT OFFENDERS RATHER THAN TO PROSECUTE THEM.

MR .11 All-RESON POINTED OUT THAT THESE GUIDELINES FOLLOWED VERY CLOSELY THOSE WHICH THE HOME OFFICE OF THE UNITED KINGDOM HAD ISSUED IN 1985.

"I MUST STRESS THAT THE DECISION HERE ON WHETHER OR NOT TO CAUTION RESTS WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND NOT WITH THE COMMISSIONER AGAINST CORRUPTION," HE ADDED.

HE SAID THAT EARLIER THIS YEAR THE GOVERNMENT HAD CONSIDERED INTRODUCING SIMILAR GUIDELINES FOR ALL LAW ENFORCEMENT DEPARTMENTS IN THE GOVERNMENT ON USING A FORMAL CAUTION AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO PROSECUTING ADULT OFFENDERS AND HAD DECIDED NOT TO DO SO AFTER CAREFUL CONS I DERATION.

HE POINTED OUT THAT THE SITUATION IN HONG KONG BASICALLY WAS RATHER DIFFERENT FROM WHAT IT WAS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.

IN HONG KONG THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS PROVIDE A (F.NTRAI PROSECUTING AUTHORITY’ TO WHICH THE POLICE AND THE OTHER DISCIPLINED FORCES HAVE EASY ACCESS FOR QUICK ADVICE ON WHETHER TO PROSECUTE IN INDIVIDUAL CASES," HF. EXPLAINED.

MR .11- YFFRESON SAID: "THERE IS NO NEW SCHEME AS SUCH IN THE I NITI I) KINGDOM COVERING THE CAUTIONING OF ADULT OFFENDERS, BUT THERE IS \ WELL-ESTABLISHED SYSTEM THERE FOR CAUTIONING WHEN IT WOULD NOT MAKE SENSE TO PROSECUTE."

THE POLICE' HAD ALWAYS HAD TO EXERCISE COMMON SENSE IN DECIDING WHETHER TO LAY’ CHARGES, PARTICULARLY IN RELATION TO MINOR OFFENCES. INDIVIDUAL CHIEF CONSTABLES HAD ISSUED GUIDELINES TO THEIR POLICE OFFICERS ON HOW TO USE THEIR DISCRETION.

"IN FEBRUARY 1985 THE HOME OFFICE RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES TO ALL (THEE CONSTABLES TO ENCOURAGE CONSISTENCY IN DECIDING WHEN TO I SSI I A CAUTION, BOTH TO JUVENILE AND TO ADULT OFFENDERS.

"BRIEFLY, THE GUIDELINES ARE AIMED MAINLY AT THE SORT OF ADULT OFFENDER WHO IT WOULD NOT ALWAYS MAKE SENSE TO PROSECUTE, FOR EXAMPLE, THE ELDERLY, THE INFIRM, THE YOUNG AND THE MENTALLY ILL, WHEN THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE ('RIME ARE NOT PARTICULARLY SERIOUS," HE SAID.

"BUT IN ALL CASES THE GUIDELINES THE HOME OFFICE ISSUED STATE THAT THE EVIDENCE MUST BE SUFFICIENT FOR PROSECUTION, THE OFFENDER MUST ADMIT THE OFFENCE AND HE MUST AGREE TO BE CAUTIONED," HE SAI D.

"THE CAUTION WILL BE RECORDED AND MAY BE USED IN MAKING FUTURE PROSIT UTI ON DECISIONS."

0 -

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 19«7

- 12 -

|,AW ON GAMBLING CONTROL MAY NEED CLARIFICATION « « » » »

EXISTING GOVERNMENT CONTROLS OF REGISTERED ASSOCIATIONS YRI ADEQUATE, ALTHOUGH SOME CONTROVERSY IN RECENT MONTHS OVER INTERPRETATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE LAW SUGGESTS THAT THERE MAY BE \ NEED TO CLARIFY IT, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON DAVID .II \l I RISON, SAID IN Till- LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

REI’IYING TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON DANIEL TSE, MR JEAFFRESON SAID THAI. SUBJECT TO THREE CONDITIONS, PLAYING MAHJONG WAS LAWFUL IN PREMISES OCCUPIED OR USED BY A SOCIETY REGISTERED UNDER THE SOCIETIES ORD I NAM I .

Till'. CONDITIONS WERE: (A) NOT TO CHARGE A FEE FOR ADMISSION TO THE PREMISES; (B) NOT TO INVOLVE PLAYING AGAINST A BANK KEPT BY ONE OR MORI OF THE PLAYERS; AND (C) NOT TO PROMOTE THE GAME BY WAY OF TRXDI OR BUSINESS OR FOR THE PRIVATE GAIN OF ANY PERSON EXCEPT THE PLAYERS. <

MR JEAFFRESON SAID THAT THE SOCIETIES ORDINANCE.ALLOWED ACTION IO Bl TAKEN AGAINST A REGISTERED SOCIETY SUSPECTED TO HAVE BEEN INVOLVED-IN UNLAWFUL GAMBLING.

"II IT APPEARS TO THE REGISTRAR OF SOCIETIES, THAT IS THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, THAT THE ACTIVITIES OF ANY REGISTERED SOCIETY ARI NOT IX ACCORDANCE WITH ITS CONSTITUTION OR RULES, HE MAY ORDER CHI SO( IFTA TO STOP THOSE ACTIVITIES.

IF A SOCIETY IGNORES THIS WARNING, THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE MAA CAM I I. I IS REGISTRATION," HE SAID.

MR JIAFFRESON ADDED THAT IF THE SOCIETY CONTINUED TO OPERATE, II WOULD BE AN UNLAWFUL SOCIETY AND ITS MEMBERS WOULD BE LIABLE TO PROSECI CION.

I HF COMMISSIONER OF POLICE WAS ALSO RESPONSIBLE FOR I Nl oRi EMI NT ACTION AGAINST GROUPS INVOLVED IN GAMBLING, MR JEAFFRESON SAID.

•Ill- PAYS PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS, WHETHER OR NO’I THEY FAIL WITHIN THE CONTROL OF THE SOCIETIES ORDINANCE, WHICH HE BELIEVES ARE FRONTS FOR GAMBLING ESTABLISHMENTS.

"SOME OF THESE ARE ALSO KNOWN, OR SUSPECTED TO BE INVOLVED WITH, TRIADS AND OTHER ORGANISED CRIMINAL SYNDICATES," HE SAID.

BUI HI POINTED OUT THAT LAW-ABIDING BONA FIDE SOCIETIES AND ASSOCIATIONS HAD NOTH 1 NG TO FEAR.

WE ARE NOW REVIEWING THE GAMBLING ORDINANCE WITH PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO THE PLAYING OF MAHJONG," HE ADDED.

/ON THE ........

'WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 198?

ON THE QUESTION OE PUBLIC HEALTH, MR JE/JFFRESON SAID THAT RESTAURANTS IN CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS WERE EXEMPTED FROM THE REQUIREMENT TO OBTAIN A LICENCE.

BIT THEY WERE INSPECTED MONTHLY BY HEALTH INSPECTORS OF THE URBAN OR REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENTS TO ENSURE THAT FOOD AND HYGIENE STANDARDS AND SANITARY CONDITIONS WERE ACCEPTABLE, HE SAID.

Till INSPECTORS WOULD ADVISE THE OPERATORS TO IMPROVE STANDARDS OR ABATE NUISANCES AS NECESSARY, MR JEAFFRESON SAID, ADDING THAT THE SECRETARY FOR MUNICIPAL SERVICES CONSIDERED THESE CONTROLS WERF ADEQUATE.

-----0-----

REGULAR CHECKS TO COMBAT ILLEGAL EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN

*****

REGULATIONS ON EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN ARE ENFORCED TO MAKE SURE THAT CHILDREN ARE NOT EMPLOYED ILLEGALLY, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, THE HON RON BRIDGE, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHAN YING-LUN ON THE EMPLOYMENT OF TEENAGERS IN 24-HOUR CONVENIENCE STORES, MR BRIDGE SAID THAT AFTER A SPECIAL ONE WEEK CHECKING OPERATION CONDUCTED A MONTH AGO, LABOUR INSPECTORS WERE OF THE IMPRESSION THAT THE MANAGEMENTS OF CONVENIENCE STORES WERE GENERALLY LAW-ABIDING.

MR BRIDGE SAID: "THE EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN REGULATIONS PERMIT A CHILD OF 13 TO 15 TO WORK ONLY IN NON-INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENTS AND ONLY BETWEEN 7 AM AND 7 PM.

"IF HE OR SHE HAS NOT YET COMPLETED SECONDARY III, THEIR EMPLOYMENT IS SUBJECT TO FURTHER SAFEGUARDS TO ENSURE THAT THEIR SCHOOLING IS NOT DISRUPTED."

MR BRIDGE SAID IN THE FIRST 10 MONTHS OF THIS INSPECTORS MADE MORE THAN 23,000 VISITS TO THE KIND OF CHILDREN WERE LIKELY TO BE EMPLOYED ILLEGALLY. ONLY ILLEGAL EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN WERE FOUND.

YEAR, LABOUR PLACES WHERE 24 CASES OF

HF ADDED THAT IN A SPECIAL ONE WEEK OPERATION CONDUCTED DURING DAYTIME, EVENING AND LATE AT NIGHT A MONTH AGO, INSPECTORS HAD VISITED 119 ESTABLISHMENTS WHICH WERE THE KIND OF PLACES FELT TO BE SPECIALLY AT RISK, INCLUDING 24-HOUR CONVENIENCE STORES.

"IN THIS OPERATION, THE INSPECTORS FOUND FOUR CASES OF ILLEGAL EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN, BUT NONE OF THEM IN CONVENIENCE STORES," HE SA I I).

/HE SAID .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER ?5, 1?8?

- 14 -

HI SAID III' HAD BEEN INFORMED BY THE COMM ISS ION Eli OF POl I' I TH \T INEVITABLY SOME CONVENIENCE STORES 1)11) ATTRACT BAD El,EMENIS AND WERE TVRGETS FOR INTIMIDATION AND ROBBERY.

HE SAID: "POLICE OFFICERS ON PATROL PAY PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO SUCH STORES AT NIGHT. THEY KEEP IN CLOSE TOUCH WITH THE STAFF AND FREQUENTLY CHECK THE CUSTOMERS."

MR BRIDGE REITERATED THAT THE LABOUR INSPECTORATE WOULD CONTINUE TO KEEP AN EYE ON ESTABLISHMENTS WHERE CHILDREN WERE LIKELY TO BE ILLEGALLY EMPLOYED.

--------o ---------

PLANS TO EXPAND OUTREACH SERVICES « » » « *

FOR ELDERLY

THERE ARE PLANS FOR THE STEADY EXPANSION OF MOST OUTREACH SOCIAL SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY, IN PARTICULAR HOME HELP, FAMILY SERVICE CENTRES, DAY CENTRES AND SOCIAL CENTRES, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, THE HON JOHN CHAMBERS, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY DR THE HON CHIU HIN-KWONG, MR CHAMBERS SAID THERE WAS NO SPECIFIC PROGRAMME FOR THE PROVISION OF OUTREACH SOCIAL WORK FOR THE ELDERLY, BUT CONSIDERABLE EFFORT WAS PUT INTO REACHING OUT TO ELDERLY PEOPLE IN THEIR OWN HOMES, AND VARIOUS SERVICES WERE PROVIDED.

"FIRSTLY, SOCIAL WORKERS FROM THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT’S FAMILY SERVICES CENTRES REACH OUT TO INDIVIDUAL ELDERLY PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED OR REPORTED AS BEING IN NEED OF CARE AND ASSISTANCE," HF SAJI).

"SECONDLY, SOCIAL WORKERS FROM THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT’S YOUTH AND COMMUNITY OFFICES AND GROUP WORK UNITS, AS WELL AS VOLUNTEERS FROM A NUMBER OF SUBVERTED AND NON-SUBVENTED WELFARE AGENCIES, VISIT THE ELDERLY AND PARTICULARLY THOSE WHO LIVE ALONE.

"THIRDLY, THE ELDERLY ARE THE MAJOR BENEFICIARIES OF THE SUBVERTED HOME HELP SERVICE WHICH PROVIDES DOMESTIC HELP INCLUDING THE COOKING OF MEALS."

HE NOTED THAT THERE WAS ALSO A SUBVERTED POOL BUS SERVICE FOR THE ELDERLY, PARTICULARLY THOSE LIVING IN REMOTE AREAS.

ALL SUCH OUTREACH SERVICES WERE IN ADDITION TO THE NETWORK OF DAI AND RESIDENTIAL SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY SUCH AS SOCIAL CENTRES, DAI CARE CENTRES AND HOMES, MR CHAMBERS ADDED.

------0----------

/15........

WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 25, 1987

UK COUNCIL TO CONDUCT INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW OF POST-SECONDARY COLLEGE

* * * *

THE GOVERNMENT HAS INVITED THE UNITED KINGDOM COUNCIL FOR NATIONAL ACADEMIC AWARDS (CNAA) TO CONDUCT AN INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW OF ONE OF THE TWO INSTITUTIONS AT PRESENT REGISTERED UNDER THE POST-SECONDARY COLLEGES ORDINANCE, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, THE HON RON BRIDGE, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON DESMOND LEE, MR BRIDGE SAID A VALIDATION TEAM FROM THE CNAA WOULD VISIT THE COLLEGE NEXT WEEK TO EXAMINE ITS FACILITIES AND TEACHING RESOURCES AND TO MAKE A REPORT TO THE GOVERNMENT ON ITS STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES AND ON THE LEVEL AND WORTH OF ITS EXIT QUALIFICATIONS.

THE COLLEGE WAS OPERATING WITH THE 2-2-1 SYSTEM FOR WHICH PARTIAL GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE WAS GRANTED, WHILE THE OTHER REGISTERED'INSTITUTION HAD CHOSEN TO CONTINUE TO OFFER FOUR-YEAR DIPLOMA COURSES WITHOUT SUCH ASSISTANCE, MR BRIDGE EXPLAINED.

"AS STATED IN THE 1978 WHITE PAPER ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF SENIOR SECONDARY AND TERTIARY EDUCATION, THE 2-2-1 SYSTEM ENABLES THE COLLEGE OPERATING IT TO CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS GOVERNMENT'S TARGETS FOR SIXTH FORM AND TERTIARY EDUCATION PLACES," HE SAID.

MR BRIDGE NOTED THAT IN THE CURRENT ACADEMIC YEAR THE COLLEGE CONCERNED WAS PROVIDING 422 PLACES AT THE SECONDARY SIX AND SECONDARY SEVEN LEVELS AND 707 PLACES AT THE HIGHER DIPLOMA LEVEL.

"IN 1987, 87 PER CENT OF THE COLLEGE’S SECONDARY SEVEN STUDENTS OBTAINED PASSES IN TWO OR MORE SUBJECTS IN THE A-LEVEL EXAMINATION.

"AT THE SAME TIME, ACCORDING TO THE EMPLOYMENT SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE COLLEGE IN RESPECT OF ITS 1986 HIGHER DIPLOMA GRADUATES, 95 PER CENT HAD EITHER OBTAINED EMPLOYMENT OR PROCEEDED TO FURTHER STUDIES WITHIN FOUR MONTHS OF GRADUATION," HE SAID.

REGARDING THE FORMAL ASSESSMENT OF THE COLLEGE, THE GOVERNMENT WOULD EXPECT TO RECEIVE THE CNAA'S REPORT EARLY NEXT YEAR, MR BRIDGE CONCLUDED.

/16

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

- 16 -

DRIVING PENALTY POINTS SYSTEM CONSIDERED SATISFACTORY * I » » t

THE GOVERNMENT IS GENERALLY SATISFIED WITH THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE DRIVING OFFENCE POINTS SYSTEM, PARTICULARLY IN MAKING THOSE DRIVERS INCURRING PENALTY POINTS MUCH MORE CAUTIOUS IN THEIR DRIVING STANDARDS AND BEHAVIOUR, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, THE HON MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION RAISED BY THE HON CHAN YING-LUN, MR LEUNG SAID THAT OF THE 117,655 DRIVERS WHO HAD INCURRED PENALTY POINTS SINCE THE SCHEME STARTED IN AUGUST 1984, ONLY 2,011 DRIVERS, OR 1.7 PER CENT, HAD BEEN DISQUALIFIED FOR INCURRING 15 OR MORE POINTS.

"THE GOVERNMENT THEREFORE CONSIDERS THAT WHILE THE SCHEME IS BEING AND WILL CONTINUE TO BE CLOSELY MONITORED, THERE IS NO NEED AT PRESENT TO CONDUCT A FULL REVIEW," HE SAID.

MR LEUNG SAID AMONG THE 2,011 DRIVERS WHO WERE DISQUALIFIED, 584 OR 29 PER CENT WERE KNOWN TO BE PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS, SUCH AS HOLDERS OF DRIVING LICENCES OF TAXIS, BUSES, PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES OR MEDIUM/HEAVY GOODS VEHICLES. THE REST WERE HOLDERS OF DRIVING LICENCES OF PRIVATE CARS, LIGHT GOODS VEHICLES OR MOTOR CYCLES.

SOME OF THE DISQUALIFIED LIGHT GOODS VEHICLE DRIVERS MIGHT ALSO BE DRIVERS BY OCCUPATION.

HOWEVER, AS HOLDERS OF PRIVATE CAR DRIVING LICENCES WERE PERMITTED AT PRESENT TO DRIVE LIGHT GOODS VEHICLES, SEPARATE STATISTICS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THIS CATEGORY OF DRIVERS, MR LEUNG SAID.

--------0 -

ROAD SAFETY WARNING AGAINST EARPHONES t t » *

THE 1988/89 ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN WILL INCLUDE IN ITS PUBLICITY A WARNING AGAINST THE USE OF EARPHONES WHEN DRIVING ON OR CROSSING A ROAD, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, THE HON JOHN CHAMBERS, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON POON CHI-FAI, AS TO WHETHER TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS WOULD OCCUR AS A RESULT OF DRIVERS OR PEDESTRIANS BEING DISTRACTED WHILE ATTENTIVELY LISTENING TO THIS EQUIPMENT, MR CHAMBERS SAID IN GENERAL, ANY DISTRACTION TO ROAD USERS, BE THEY DRIVERS OR PEDESTRIANS, WAS POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE DISCOURAGED.

/"REGULATION 42(E) .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 198?

- 17 -

"REGULATION 42(E) OF THE ROAD TRAFFIC (TRAFFIC CONTROL) REGULATIONS PROHIBITS MOTOR-CYCLISTS FROM WEARING RADIO OR CASSETTE EARPHONES WHEN DRIVING," HE SAID.

"THE ROAD USERS' CODE, WHICH IS WIDELY DISTRIBUTED TO THE PUBLIC AND MADE AVAILABLE TO ALL DRIVING LICENCE HOLDERS, EMPHASISES THAT EARPHONES SHOULD NOT BE WORN WHILST DRIVING ANY VEHICLE.

"THE CODE ALSO ADVISES PEDESTRIANS TO GIVE FULL ATTENTION TO THE TRAFFIC AND NOT TO ENGAGE IN OTHER ACTIVITIES, SUCH AS LISTENING TO A RADIO OR CASSETTE WHILE CROSSING THE ROAD," HE ADDED.

AS TO WHETHER THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONDUCT ANY STUDY TO ASCERTAIN THE EFFECT OF PROLONGED LISTENING TO THESE GADGETS ON THE USERS, SUCH AS THE POSSIBILITY OF WEAKENING OR LOSS OF HEARING, MR CHAMBERS SAID THERE WAS AT PRESENT NO PLAN TO STUDY THE EFFECT OF PROLONGED LISTENING TO WALKMAN-TYPE RADIOS AND CASSETTE TAPE PLAYERS ON HEARING, AS THERE WAS NO KNOWN CASE OF SERIOUS DAMAGE TO HEARING BEING CAUSED IN THIS WAY.

HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THERE WAS NO INTENTION AT PRESENT TO REQUIRE MANUFACTURERS OR IMPORTERS OF PORTABLE RADIOS OR CASSETTE PLAYERS TO PROVIDE GUIDANCE ON THEIR PROPER USE.

-----0-----

POLICE COMPUTER CHECKS AVERAGE 5,700 A DAY

*****

AN AVERAGE 5,700 PERSONS EACH DAY WERE INTERCEPTED BY POLICE •FFICERS IN PUBLIC OF PLACES AND CHECKED THROUGH THE POLICE OPERATIONAL NOMINAL INDEX COMPUTER SYSTEM (PONICS) BETWEEN NOVEMBER 1, 1986 AND OCTOBER 31, 1987, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON DAVID JEAFFRESON, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON CHEUNG YAN-LUNG, MR JEAFFRESON ADDED THAT DURING THE SAME PERIOD PATROLLING POLICE OFFICERS ALSO CHECKED AN AVERAGE OF 808 IDENTITY CARDS EACH DAY THROUGH THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT'S IDENTITY CARD INFORMATION SYSTEM (ICIS).

"PONICS IS THE POLICE CENTRAL DATA BASE. USING BEAT RADIOS PATROLLING POLICE OFFICERS HAVE ACCESS TO IT AT ALL TIMES THROUGH THEIR REGIONAL COMMAND AND CONTROL CENTRES (RCCC)," HE SAID.

SOME 122 POLICE STAFF WERE DEPLOYED TO HANDLE ENQUIRIES MADE BY PATROLLING POLICE OFFICERS TO COMPUTER 24-HOUR DATA BASES IN THE RCCC AND IN THE CRIMINAL RECORDS BUREAU, HE ADDED.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

FRESH LOOK AT LAW ON LOITERING

* » » t

THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION HAS BEEN ASKED TO CONSIDER WHETHER THE LAW RELATING TO THE OFFENCES OF LOITERING CONTAINED IN SECTION 160 OF THE CRIMES ORDINANCE SHOULD BE AMENDED AND, IF SO, WHAT CHANGES SHOULD BE MADE, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON DAVID JEAFFRESON, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

HE WAS REPLYING TO A QUESTION BY THE HON HILTON CHEONG-LEEN ON WHETHER THE GOVERNMENT HAD PLANS TO REVIEW THE LOITERING LAW, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE FACT THAT SOCIAL CONDITIONS HAD IMPROVED SINCE 1979 WHEN THE LAW WAS FIRST ENACTED, AND THAT THE LAW MIGHT BE SUBJECT TO ABUSE.

- - 0 - -

THREE BILLS PASSED * * *

THREE BILLS WERE PASSED INTO LAW IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

THEY ARE THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS (MEMBERS) BILL 1987, THE FISHERIES PROTECTION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1987 AND THE INLAND REVENUE (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1987.

- - 0

/19

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

- 19 -

RAPID ECONOMIC GROWTH CONTINUED IN THE THIRD QUARTER » t » » *

THE ECONOMIC SERVICES BRANCH OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT TODAY (WEDNESDAY) RELEASED THE THIRD QUARTER ECONOMIC REPORT 1987. IN THE PROCESS OF PREPARING THIS REPORT, USEFUL COMMENTS AND ADVICE WERE RECEIVED FROM THE ECONOMIC REVIEW COMMITTEE, WHICH IS CHAIRED BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY AND INCLUDES IN ITS MEMBERSHIP EIGHT MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

BECAUSE THE THIRD QUARTER REPORT COVERS THE PERIOD JULY TO SEPTEMBER, THE UPHEAVALS IN THE STOCK MARKET AND THE STOCK INDEX FUTURES MARKET, WHICH OCCURRED IN OCTOBER, ARE NOT COVERED BY THE REPORT.

THE HONG KONG ECONOMY REMAINED BUOYANT DURING THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1987. THE UPSURGE IN EXPORTS, COUPLED WITH THE RESULTING STRONG DOMESJIC DEMAND, PROVIDED THE MAIN IMPETUS TO GROWTH.

BY SEPTEMBER, THE GROWTH MOMENTUM OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS HAD BEEN SUSTAINED FOR 19 MONTHS. IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1987, DOMESTIC EXPORTS GREW BY ABOUT 25 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS OVER THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR. THE LATEST FIGURES ON THE ORDER-BOOK POSITIONS OF LARGE MANUFACTURERS AND ON RETAINED IMPORTS OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES SUGGEST THAT THE PERFORMANCE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS IS LIKELY TO REMAIN SATISFACTORY FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR.

AS REGARDS DOMESTIC DEMAND, THE GROWTH IN PRIVATE CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE REMAINED STRONG IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1987, REFLECTING THE SUSTAINED IMPROVEMENT IN PERSONAL INCOMES.

INDICATIVE OF THIS, RETAINED IMPORTS OF FOODSTUFFS AND OF CONSUMER GOODS BOTH GREW BY ABOUT 10 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1987 COMPARED WITH A YEAR AGO. THE VOLUME OF RETAIL SALES ALSO RECORDED A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE OVER THE SAME PERIOD.

CAPITAL INVESTMENT GREW SUBSTANTIALLY, AS INDICATED BY A YEAR-ON-YEAR INCREASE OF ABOUT 49 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS IN RETAINED IMPORTS OF CAPITAL GOODS IN THE THIRD QUARTER. AMONG THESE, RETAINED IMPORTS OF INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY FOR USE IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR GREW BY ABOUT 30 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS. ,

AGAINST THE BACKGROUND OF BUOYANT ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES, THF LABOUR MARKET REMAINED TIGHT DURING THE THIRD QUARTER. THIS PRODUCED SIGNIFICANT UPWARD PRESSURES ON WAGES AND SALARIES. THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1987, AT 1.8 PER CENT, WAS THE SAME AS IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER, BUT WAS ONE PERCENT\GE POINT LOWER THAN A YEAR AGO.

THE UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE WAS ONE PER CENT IN THE THIRD QUARTER, 0.1 OF A PERCENTAGE POINT LOWER THAN IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER AND 0.3 OF A PERCENTAGE POINT LOWER THAN IN THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25. 1987

- 20

THE RATE OF CONSUMER PRICE INFLATION EDGED UP FURTHER. THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) ROSE BI 5.6 PER CENT IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1987 OVER THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR. THIS COMPARED WITH THE CORRESPONDING YEAR-ON-YEAR RATES OF INCREASE OF 4.3 PER CENT AND 5.1 PER CENT IN THE FIRST AND SECOND QUARTERS OF 1987.

NEVERTHELESS, IT WAS STILL MODERATE COMPARED WITH HONG KONG’S EXPERIENCE OVER THE PAST DECADE, WHEN THE AVERAGE ANNUAL RATE OF INCREASE IN THE CPI(A) WAS 8.7 PER CENT.

THE CPI(B) AND THE HANG SENG CPI ROSE BY 5.5 PER CENT AND 6.5 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY BETWEEN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1986 AND THE SAME QUARTER IN 1987.

THE THIRD QUARTER ECONOMIC REPORT 1987 UPDATES THE ASSESSMENT OF THE LOCAL ECONOMIC SITUATION WHICH WAS GIVEN IN THE HALF-YEARLY ECONOMIC REPORT 1987. APART FROM PROVIDING AN OVERALL VIEW, THE REPORT ALSO CONTAINS INDIVIDUAL CHAPTERS ON THE EXTERNAL SECTOR, THE FINANCIAL SECTOR, THE LABOUR SECTOR, ACTIVITY IN SELECTED SECTORS, AND PRICES. •

ON THE EXTERNAL SECTOR, THE REPORT NOTES THAT DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO ALL MAJOR MARKETS GREW RAPIDLY IN THE THIRD QUARTER.

DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA ROSE BY ABOUT 49 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS OVER A YEAR EARLIER, FOLLOWED BY INCREASES OF 45 PER CENT FOR JAPAN, OF 31 PER CENT FOR THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY, AND OF 26 PER CENT FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM. DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO HONG KONG’S LARGEST MARKET, THE UNITED STATES, INCREASED BY ABOUT 15 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS.

SUSTAINED DEMAND FOR HONG KONG’S PRODUCTS IN THE MAJOR OVERSEAS MARKETS WAS AN IMPORTANT CONTRIBUTORY FACTOR, ALTHOUGH THE INCREASED TRADE FLOWS BROUGHT ABOUT BY OUTWARD PROCESSING ACTIVITIES IN CHINA ALSO ACCOUNTED FOR A SIGNIFICANT PART OF THE EXPORT GROWTH.

RE-EXPORTS CONTINUED TO FEATURE PROMINENTLY IN HONG KONG'S EXTERNAL TRADE. IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1987, RE-EXPORTS GREW Bl ABOUT 49 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS OVER THE SAME QUARTER IN 1986. CHINA, IN ITS DUAL ROLE AS A SOURCE AND AS A MARKET, ACCOUNTED FOR NEARLY 80 PER CENT OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS IN THF THIRD QUARTER. COMPARED WITH THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR, HONG KONG’S IMPORTS GREW IN REAL TERMS BY ABOUT 34 PER CENT, AND ITS RETAINED IMPORTS BY ABOUT 19 PER CENT .

THE REPORT POINTS OUT THAT THE GROWTH RATE OF THE VALUE I TOTAL EXPORTS (I.E. DOMESTIC EXPORTS PLUS RE-EXPORTS) BETWEEN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1986 AND THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1987, AT 38 PER CENT, WAS THE SAME AS THAT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS.

AS A RESULT, A VISIBLE TRADE SURPLUS EQUIVALENT TO SIX PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, WAS RECORDED IN THE THIRD QUARTER ' >F THIS YEAR, WHICH WAS THE SAME IN PROPORTIONATE TERMS AS THE SUEPI ■ .-> RECORDED IN THE THIRD QUARTER LAST YEAR. THIS SURPLUS WAS, HOWEVER, MAINLY SEASONAL.

WEDNESDAY* NOVEMBER 25, 1£87

- 21 -

FOR THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF 1987 AS A WHOLE, THE VALUES OF TOTAL EXPORTS AND OF IMPORTS WERE ROUGHLY IN BALANCE.

ON THE FINANCIAL SECTOR, THE REPORT NOTES THE FOLLOWING DEVELOPMENTS. FIRST, DURING MOST OF THE THIRD QUARTER, THE MARKET EXCHANGE RATE OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR STAYED CLOSE TO THE LINKED RATE OF HK$7.8O TO US$1, EXCEPT FOR A TEMPORARY STRENGTHENING TN EARLY SEPTEMBER DUE TO SPECULATION THAT THE LOCAL CURRENCY WOULD BE REVALUED. THE SPECULATIVE PRESSURE QUICKLY SUBSIDED AFTERWARDS.

SECOND, REFLECTING FLUCTUATIONS IN THE EXCHANGE VALUE OF THE U.S. DOLLAR AGAINST OTHER MAJOR CURRENCIES, THE NEW EFFECTIVE EXCHANGE RATE INDEX OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR FELL FROM 106.2 AT THE END OF JUNE TO 105.7 AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER.

THIRD, APART FROM A TEMPORARY DOWNWARD DRIFT IN SEPTEMBER, LOCAL MONEY MARKET INTEREST RATES WERE GENERALLY STABLE DURING THE THIRD QUARTER.

FOURTH, LOW REAL INTEREST RATES, BUOYANT ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES AND AN ACTIVE STOCK MARKET ALL CONTRIBUTED TO A GREATER DEMAND FOR LOANS. •

AS A RESULT, LOANS FOR LOCAL USE, HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS AND THE HONG KONG DOLLAR MONEY SUPPLY ALL GREW MORE RAPIDLY DURING THE THIRD QUARTER THAN DURING THE PREVIOUS QUARTER.

ON THE LABOUR SECTOR, THE REPORT OBSERVES THAT WHILE EMPLOYMENT IN MANUFACTURING RECORDED ONLY A SLIGHT INCREASE, EMPLOYMENT IN FINANCIAL AND BUSINESS SERVICES, IN THE WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, IN TRANSPORT SERVICES, AND ON BUILDING AND CONSTRUCT J ON SITES ROSE SIGNIFICANTLY IN JUNE 1987 OVER A YEAR EARLIER.

WITH THE DEMAND FOR LABOUR OUTSTRIPPING SUPPLY AT THE CURRENT WAGE LEVELS, VACANCIES TN ALL MAJOR SECTORS INCREASED SHARPLY IN JUNE 1987 COMPARED WITH A YEAR AGO. OVER THE SAME PERIOD, EARNINGS IN THE MANUFACTURING AND SERVICES SECTORS, IN TERMS OF PAYROLL PER PERSON ENGAGED, INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY BOTH IN MONEY TERMS AND IN REAL TERMS, AS Dll) WAGE RATES IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR.

THE REPORT NOTES THAT THE INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION, AS AN INDICATOR OF CHANGES IN THE VOLUME OF MANUFACTURING OUTPUT, WAS 19 PER (’ENT HIGHER IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987 THAN IN THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR.

MANUFACTURING ACTIVITY CONTINUED TO BE BUOYANT IN THE THIRD QUARTER, AS REFLECTED BY THE FIGURES ON DOMESTIC EXPORTS, ON RETAINED IMPORTS OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES, ON THE QUANTITY OF ELECTRICITY CONSUMED BY INDUSTRY, AND ON THE ORDER-BOOK POSITIONS OF THE LARGE MANUFACTURERS.

/THE REPORT .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVTXBER 25, 1987

- 22 -

THE REPORT FURTHER NOTES THAT TRADING IN THE PROPERTY MARKET AS A WHOLE CONTINUED TO BE ACTIVE IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1987, WITH SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN PROPERTY PRICES AND RENTALS OVER A YEAR AGO.

WHILE THERE WAS CONTINUED DEMAND FOR RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY DURING THE THIRD QUARTER, BUYERS WERE APPARENTLY BECOMING MORE CAUTIOUS AND SELECTIVE AT THE PREVAILING HIGH FLAT PRICES.

MEANWHILE, THE MARKET CONDITIONS FOR COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY REMAINED TIGHT, AND PRICES AND RENTALS PARTICULARLY FOR PREMISES IN PREFERRED LOCATIONS STILL REGISTERED INCREASES.

AS REGARDS BUILDING INTENTIONS, PLANNED DEVELOPMENTS OF ALL TYPES OF PROPERTY, IN TERMS OF THE TOTAL USABLE FLOOR AREA ON BUILDING PLANS FOR WHICH CONSENT TO COMMENCE WORK HAD BEEN GIVEN, INCREASED BY 18 PER CENT IN THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF 1987 COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1986.

THE ihiRD QUARTER ECONOMIC REPORT 1987 IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE IN CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AT $12 A COPY.

-----0------

LICENCE OF TRAVEL AGENT SUSPENDED

» ♦ * * *

THE REGISTRAR OF TRAVEL AGENTS THIS EVENING (WEDNESDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT THE LICENCE OF JET-WAY TRAVEL AND TOURS SERVICE BEAU-RAY CO. LTD) WILL BE SUSPENDED WITH EFFECT FROM TOMORROW (THURSDAY).

THE SUSPENSION IS BEING MADE UNDER THE TRAVEL AGENTS ORDINANCE FOLLOWING AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY WHICH LED 'HE REGISTRAR TO BELIEVE THAT THE AGENCY HAS BEEN CARRYING ON BUSINESS CONTRARY TO THE PUBLIC INTEREST.

WITH EFFECT FROM TOMORROW, JET-WAY TRAVEL AND TOURS SERVICE *H.L NO LONGER BE ALLOWED TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS FOR ITS “OUT-BOUND JOUR AND TRAVEL SERVICES. HOWEVER, IT MUST COMPLETE TRAVEL SERVICES WHICH IT HAS ALREADY UNDERTAKEN TO PROVIDE FOR ITS CLIENTS.

THE SUSPENSION ONLY AFFECTS THE COMPANY’S "OUT-BOUND” BUSINESS B'T DOES NOT AFFECT "IN-BOUND" TRAVEL SERVICES, WHICH ARE OUTSIDE THE SCOPE OF THE TRAVEL AGENTS ORDINANCE.

WHILE ITS LICENCE IS SUSPENDED, JET-WAY TRAVEL AND TOURS SERVICE IS NOT ALLOWED TO PRESENT ITSELF AS CARRYING ON "OUT-BOUND” TRAVEL BUSINESS BY PUBLISHING ANY ADVERTISEMENT FOR ’’OUT-BOUND” TOURS.

/UNDER THE .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER O, 1?67

UNDER THE TRAVEL AGENTS ORDINANCE, ANY PERSON WHO PUBLISHES A^I ADVERTISEMENT FOR AN UNLICENSED TRAVEL AGENT WILL BE CONTRAVENING THF ORDINANCE AND IS LIABLE TO A FINE OF $2,000.

JET-WAY TRAVEL AND TOURS SERVICE STARTED BUSINESS IN 1980 AND WAS GRANTED A LICENCE IN FEBRUARY 1986 WHEN THE TRAVEL AGENTS REGISTRY CAME INTO OPERATION.

ITS MAIN OFFICE IS LOCATED AT EAST POINT CENTRE, 555 HENNESSY ROAD, HONG KONG, WITH THREE BRANCH OFFICES AT BANK CENTRE, 636 NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON; NAM FUNG CENTRE, TSUEN WAN; AND LUK HOI TUNG BUILDING, 31 QUEEN’S ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG.

THE SUSPENSION WILL BE FORMALLY NOTIFIED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. THE AGENCY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE REASONS FOR THE SUSPENSION AND IS ALLOWED ONE MONTH TO DECIDE WHETHER IT WISHES TO MAKE AN APPEAL TO THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL AGAINST THE SUSPENSION ORDER.

CONSIDERATION MAY BE GIVEN TO LIFTING THE SUSPENSION ORDER, IF THE GROUNDS FOR THE SUSPENSION NO LONGER APPLY.

-----0------

LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK TO REGULATE SECURITY INDUSTRY SOON

*****

THE GOVERNMENT IS EXPECTING TO COME UP SHORTLY WITH A LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK FOR REGULATING THE SECURITY INDUSTRY.

THIS WAS STATED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, .MR NIGEL FRENCH, WHEN HE ADDRESSED THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE PROTECT ASIA ’87 INTERNATIONAL SECURITY XND SAFETY CONFERENCE.

MR FRENCH SAID THAT AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE SET UP IN MARCH UNDER THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE HAD MET A NUMBER OF TIMES TO CONSIDER VARIOUS ASPECTS OF THE PROPOSALS FOR REGULATING THE SECURITY INDUSTRY.

"DISCUSSIONS HAVE COVERED THE SETTING UP OF A BOARD TO LICENSE SECURITY COMPANIES, THE ISSUE OF PERMITS TO LICENSED . COMPANIES, THE CRITERIA TO BE APPLIED FOR THE ISSUING OF LICENSES, THE UPGRADING OF THE STANDARD OF WATCHMEN, AND THE TRICKY QUESTION OF HOW TO DEFINE THE TERM ’SECURITY SERVICES’ AND WHO TO BRING UNDER THIS DEFINITION.

"IN DISCUSSING THE ISSUES RELATING TO REGULATION OF THE INDUSTRY, THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE HAS COME TO SEE ONE OF THE REASONS WHY, AS YET, NEITHER BRITAIN, THE UNITED STATES NOR AUSTRALIA HAVE BEEN ABLE TO DETERMINE HOW TO REGULATE THE INDUSTRY. FOR THE TASK OF DEFINING THE SECURITY SERVICES TO BE BROUGHT UNDER CONTROL AND 1OW BEST TO ACHIEVE THE CONTROL IS PROVING TO BE VERY COMPLEX.

/"NONETHELESS, GIVE!

WEDNESDAY, NOVELS Eh 1987

- 24 -

"NONETHELESS, GIVEN THE CONTINUED CO-OPERATION OF THE INDUSTRY’S REPRESENTATIVES AND THE OTHER MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE, 1 AM CONFIDENT THAT WE SHALL BE ABLE TO COME UP WITH A LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK IN THE NOT TOO DISTANT FUTURE," MR FRENCH SAID.

TURNING TO THE ISSUE OF BETTER CONTROL OF FAULTY BURGLAR ALARMS, MR FRENCH SAID THAT DRAFT BILLS AIMED AT ENCOURAGING THOSE WHO HAD BURGLAR ALARMS TO LOOK AFTER THEIR EQUIPMENT BETTER WOULD BE INTRODUCED TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL THIS SESSION.

"THE INTENTION IS TO ALLOW THE POLICE TO MONITOR FAULTY ALARMS MORE EFFECTIVELY AND TO HELP SHOPOWNERS, HOUSEHOLDERS AND OTHERS GFT MORE RELIABLE RESULTS FROM THEIR INTRUDER ALARM SYSTEMS," HE SAID.

LATEST POLICE RECORDS SHOW THAT OVER 99 PER CENT OF ALL BURGLAR ALARM CALLS ARE FALSE.

-----0-----

PAC OPEN HEARINGS START TOMORROW * t t *

THE FIRST SESSION OF THIS YEAR’S OPEN HEARINGS OF THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE WILL START AT 9 AM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER.

APPEARING BEFORE THE COMMITTEE TO ANSWER POINTS RAISED IN THE DIRECTOR OF AUDIT’S ANNUAL REPORT WILL BE THE DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS, THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, THE SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION, THE REGISTRAR, SUPREME COURT, THE DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, THE DEPUTY FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, THE SECRETARY FOR LANDS AND WORKS, THE DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS AND THE COMMISSIONER OF INLAND REVENUE.

THE TIMETABLE FOR TOMORROW’S HEARING IS AS FOLLOWS:

9 AM DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS PARAGRAPHS 65-70

9.20 AM COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR PARAGRAPHS 84-99

10.20 AM SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION; AND REGISTRAR, SUPREME COURT PARAGRAPHS 76-78

11.05 AM REGISTRAR, SUPREME COURT PARAGRAPHS 79-83

/11.35 AM .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 198?

11.35 AM SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION PARAGRAPHS 29-35

2.30 PM DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY PARAGRAPHS 71-75

3 . 1 5 PM DEPUTY FINANCIAL SECRETARY AND DIRECTOR OF MARINE PARAGRAPHS 22-27

4 PM SECRETARY FOR LANDS AND WORKS AND DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS PARAGRAPHS 122-131

4.45 PM COMMISSIONER OF INLAND REVENUE PARAGRAPHS 15-18

THE SECOND DAY OF OPEN HEARINGS WILL BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 30.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES COVERING THE OPEN HEARINGS ARE ADVISED TO BRING WITH THEM A COPY OF THE DIRECTOR OF AUDIT’S REPORT.

-----o-----

ID CARD REMINDER FOR MEN BORN IN 1963/64 * * * * »

THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT TODAY' (WEDNESDAY) REMINDED MEN BORN In 1963 AND 1964 TO APPLY FOR NEW IDENTITY CARDS BEFORE SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 29.

THERE ARE ONLY THREE MORE DAYS FOR THIS GROUP OF MEN TO RENEW IHEIR CARDS BEFORE THIS PHASE CLOSES ON NOVEMBER 28," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.

FAILURE TO APPLY FOR A NEW ID CARD WITHIN THE SPECIFIED PERIOD IS AN OFFENCE LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $3,000," HF POINTED OUT.

APPLICANTS CAN GO TO ANY ONE OF EIGHT NEW ID CARD ISSUE OFFICES TO RENEW THEIR ID CARDS.

THESE OFFICES ARE OPEN FROM 8 AM TO 9.30 PM DAILY, EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.

/"THE ISSUE .......

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

"THE ISSUE OFFICES ARE VERY CROWDED IN THE EVENINGS. TO AVOID HAVING TO QUEUE UP AT THE ISSUE OFFICES, APPLICANTS ARE ADVISED TO GO 1'0 THESE OFFICES IN THE MORNINGS AND THE AFTERNOONS," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.

HE REITERATED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.

- 0 - -

DB MEMBERS LEARN ABOUT HOSPITAL REDEVELOPMENT PLAN * * * * *

WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS WERE BRIEFED ON THE REDEVELOPMENT PLAN OF THE RUTTONJEE SANATORIUM DURING A FAMILIARISATION VISIT TODAY (WEDNESDAY).

THEY WERE MET BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE HE TUBERCULOSIS, CHEST AND HEART DISEASES ASSOCIATION, MR R.M. SHROFF, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REDEVELOPMENT AND HOUSE COMMITTEE OF THE RUTTONJEE SANATORIUM, MR TSENG CHENG, AT THE SANATORIUM. WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICER, MR ALLAN CHOW, ALSO JOINED THE VISIT.

DURING THE VISIT, MEMBERS LEARNT THAT THE REDEVELOPMENT SCHEME WOULD INVOLVE THE BUILDING OF A FIVE-STOREY PODIUM, A MAIN HOSPITAL BLOCK WITH 16 WARDS, A NURSES QUARTER AND A SENIOR STAFF AND MEDICAL OFFICERS QUARTER.

THE TOTAL COST OF THE PROJECT WILL AMOUNT TO $280 MILLION, OF WHICH 80 PER CENT WILL BE SHOULDERED BY THE GOVERNMENT, WHILE THE REST WILL BE FUNDED BY THE HK TUBERCULOSIS, CHEST AND HEART DISEASES ASSOCIATION.

WHEN COMPLETED IN 1989, THE NEW 614-BED HOSPITAL WILL HELP TO RELIEVE THE CROWDED CONDITIONS OF THE TANG SHIU KIN HOSPITAL AND THE QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL.

THE PARTY ALSO NOTED THAT THE REDEVELOPED HOSPITAL WOULD CONSIST OF A GERIATRICS DAY HOSPITAL, AN OUT-PATIENT DEPARTMENT, AN OPERATING THEATRE SUITE WITH FOUR OPERATING ROOMS, AND FOUR X-RAY EXAMINATION ROOMS IN THE NEW COMPLEX. IT WILL ALSO HAVE PATHOLOGY LABORATORIES AND FACILITIES OF ELECTRO-MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS, PHYSIOTHERAPY, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY AND HYDROTHERAPY.

AFTER THE BRIEFING, THE PARTY TOURED THE SANATORIUM AND THE CONSTRUCTION SITE OF THE REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT.

BOARD MEMBERS WERE IMPRESSED WITH THE REDEVELOPMENT PLAN AND EXCHANGED SOUVENIRS WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF THE SANATORIUM BEFORE CONCLUDING THE VISIT.

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/2?

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1987

TENANCIES SOUGHT FOR TWO SITES t t « t

TWO SITES, ONE IN KWAI CHUNG AND THE OTHER IN KOWLOON BAY RECLAMATION, \RE TO BE LET ON SHORT TERM TENANCY BY THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT.

MEASURING ABOUT 1,540 SQUARE METRES, THE KWAI CHUNG SITE IS LOCATED AT AREA 30, KWAI CHUNG CREEK RECLAMATION.

IT IS SPECIFIED FOR THE OPERATION OF A CONCRETE BATCHING PLANT. THE INITIAL TENANCY IS FOR THREE YEARS, RENEWABLE EVERY THREE MONTHS THEREAFTER. ivmno

THE CLOSING DATE FOR TENDERS IS NOON ON DECEMBER 11.

THE KOWLOON BAY SITE, LOCATED AT THE JUNCTION OF WANG HOI ROAD, LAM HING STREET AND LAM LEE STREET, IS FOR STORAGE OF NON-DANGEROUS i()ODS •

COVERING AN AREA OF ABOUT 2,520 SQUARE METRES, ITS INITIAL TENANCY IS FOR ONE YEAR, RENEWABLE MONTHLY THEREAFTER.

THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING TENDERS IS NOON ON DECEMBDR 4.

- - 0 -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO,

POLICIES REMAIN FIRMLY IN PLACE s SIR DAVID .................... 1

INDUSTRIAL FOCUS ON QUALITY ASSURANCE .......................... 4

GOVERNOR TO VISIT MONG KOK...................................... 5

FMO PRAISED FOR ROLE IN EDUCATION ...........................

HOW TO FACE THE CHALLENGE OF OLD AGE............................ 7

VARIETY SHOW TO PROMOTE CRIME PREVENTION ....................... 8

FANLING SHOW AIMED AT CURBING FALLING OBJECT HAZARD............. 8

CARNIVAL TO ALERT YOUTHS TO FIGHT CRIME......................

ENTRIES INVITED FOR DANCE CONTEST ...........................

SPEEDPOST SERVICE TO INDIA EXTENDED ........................... 11

SEARCH AND RESCUE COURSE MEMBERS TO RECEIVE CERTIFICATES ....

FOUR SITES FOR AUCTION TOMORROW ............................... 12

N3V DUMPING AREA IN JUNK BAY .................................. 12

SPEEDPOST EXTENDED TO CONGO .................................

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS REPORT GN FLATTED FACTORY UNITS...... 14

RESTRICTED ZONES IN KENNEDY TOWN............................... 14

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1987

POLICIES REMAIN FIRMLY IN PLACE : SIR DAVID » * * » *

ALTHOUGH IT APPEARS THAT HONG KONG’S ECONOMIC GROWTH RATE :a\ BE AFFECTED BY WHAT HAS HAPPENED IN THE WORLD’S FINANCIAL MARKETS, POLICIES OUTLINED BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, IN HIS ADDRESS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL LAST MONTH WILL NOT BE AFFECTED AND THEY WILL REMAIN IN PLACE.

SIR DAVID EMPHASISED THIS WHEN SPEAKING AT THE ANNUAL FELLOWSHIP DINNER OF THE HONG KONG MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION THIS (THURSDAY) EVENING.

THE GOVERNOR SAID SOME COMMENTATORS HAD SUGGESTED THAT, BECAUSE OF THE STOCK MARKET CRISIS AND ITS POSSIBLE KNOCK-ON EFFECTS, THE GOVERNMENT WOULD NOT NOW BE ABLE TO CARRY OUT ALL OF THE SOCIAL PROGRAMMES THAT HE ANNOUNCED LAST MONTH.

"I SHOULD LIKE TO MAKE IT CLEAR THAT THIS IS NOT THE CASE. WHEN THOSE POLICIES WERE ANNOUNCED I MADE A POINT OF SAYING THAT, EVEN WHEN THE ECONOMY WAS DOING WELL, WE MUST BE PRUDENT IN OUR PLANS FOR NEW SPENDING," HE SAID.

"THE SERIES OF POLICIES WHICH I ANNOUNCED IN THAT SPEECH WERE DESIGNED WITH THIS CONSIDERATION IN MIND."

SIR DAVID RECALLED THAT THE PAST FEW WEEKS HAD BEEN DIFFICULT FS IN HONG KONG - AND IN THE REST OF THE WORLD.

'OUR STOCK MARKET WAS TEMPORARILY CLOSED. OUR FUTURES MARKET 1) SI RIOUS PROBLEMS WHICH MADE IT ESSENTIAL TO BRING IN A RAPID AND VSSIVE LIFEBOAT OPERATION TO ENSURE THAT IT COULD KEEP TRADING AND NOT COLLAPSE IN A WAY WHICH WOULD HAVE AFFECTED THE REST OF THE FINANCIAL SYSTEM.

THE HANG SENG INDEX HAS FALLEN ALMOST 50 PER CENT IN LESS THAN TWO MONTHS, EVEN THOUGH IT IS WORTH REMEMBERING THAT IT STANDS TODAY AT MUCH THE SAME LEVEL AS IN THE EARLY PART OF OCTOBER LAST YEAR," HE SAID.

HE OBSERVED THAT THE INDEX HAD GONE DOWN FAST BUT IT HAD PREVIOUSLY ALSO GONE UP FAST.

THE GOVERNOR SAID THESE EVENTS HAD SHOWN UP WEAKNESSES IN OUR SYSTEM AND IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT WE SHOULD ANALYSE CAREFULLY WHAT THEY WERE AND THEN PUT THEM RIGHT.

"THAT IS WHY I HAVE APPOINTED A SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE, CHAIRED BY MR IAN HAY DAVISON AND INCLUDING FIVE OTHER MEMBERS FROM THE HONG KONG COMMUNITY."

/THE COMI.fITTES

THURSDAY, XCT2G33 26, 1987

THE COMMITTEE WAS ALREADY HARD AT WORK, HE NOTED.

SIR DAVID SAID HE HAD ASKED THE COMMITTEE TO REPORT TO HIM WITHIN SIX MONTHS.

"IT’S TASK IS TO EXAMINE CRITICALLY THE CONSTITUTION, STRUCTURE, OPERATION AND MANAGEMENT OF OUR EXCHANGES AND OF THE GOVERNMENT’S SUPERVISORY MACHINERY, AND TO ADVISE HOW THESE COULD BE IMPROVED,” HE EXPLAINED.

THE GOVERNOR EMPHASISED THAT THE COMMITTEE WOULD NOT CONDUCT A WITCH-HUNT AND THAT IT WOULD LOOK FORWARD, NOT BACKWARDS.

”OUR AIM IS TO MAINTAIN HONG KONG’S POSITION AS A MAJOR WORLD FINANCIAL CENTRE AND TO ENSURE THAT, AS I SAID IN MY ADDRESS TO THE LEGISLATIVE’COUNCIL LAST MONTH, OUR MARKETS WARRANT THE TRUST AND CONFIDENCE OF THOSE WHO PARTICIPATE IN THEM,” HF. SAID.

IN COMMENTING ON THE IMPLICATIONS FOR HONG KONG OF THE EVENTS OF THE PAST FEW WEEKS, SIR DAVID SAID THE FIRST POINT THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO MAKE WAS AN OBVIOUS ONE: THE RECENT SHARP FALL ON THE HONG KONG STOCK MARKET WAS A REACTION TO WORLD EVENTS AND TO FALLS ELSEWHERE, NOT TO PROBLEMS IN HONG KONG’S OWN ECONOMY.

”OUR MARKETS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN KNOWN FOR THEIR VOLATILITY.

"BUT THE HONG KONG ECONOMY AS A WHOLE REMAINS BUOYANT. OUR ~RADE FIGURES UP TO OCTOBER SHOW VERY SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES. UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT FOR THOSE, THE FIGURES ARE STILL T RECORD LOW LEVELS. AT PRESENT OUR ORDER BOOKS ARE STILL FULL,” HE POINTED OUT.

SIR DAVID SAID HE RECOGNISED THAT MANY ECONOMIES, INCLUDING HONG KONG’S, WERE LIKELY TO SUFFER AS A RESULT OF THE SHARP FALL IN FINANCIAL MARKETS.

”IT IS STILL NOT POSSIBLE TO ESTIMATE PRECISELY WHAT THE EFFECTS WILL BE, NOR THEIR INFLUENCE ON OUR ECONOMY.

"BUT WE ARE ALL ACUTELY CONSCIOUS THAT HONG KONG HAS ALWAYS BEEN KEENLY AFFECTED BY EXTERNAL FORCES OUTSIDE OUR CONTROL,” HE SAID.

"I SAID IN MY ADDRESS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL LAST MONTH, THAT IF THERE ARE STORMS WE MUST REACT TO THEM QUICKLY.

”AS A COMMUNITY, WE HAVE A TRADITION OF DOING SO,” HE SAID, ADDING THAT HONG KONG HAD SURVIVED POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC CRISES, TRADE EMBARGOES, OIL SHORTAGES AND BANK FAILURES.

/SIR DAVID .......

THURSDAY, N07SSSH 26, 1987

SIR DAVID SAID HE TOLD PEOPLE ON HIS RECENT VISIT TO THE UNITED STATES THAT THE HISTORY OF HONG KONG WAS ONE OF BEING CONFRONTED WITH ADVERSITY, FACING UP TO IT AND BOUNCING BACK AGAIN STRONGER AND MORE VIGOROUS THAN BEFORE.

"I AM CONFIDENT THAT THIS WILL BE TRUE AGAIN ON THIS OCCASION," HE SAID.

TURNING TO THE QUALITY OF MANAGEMENT, SIR DAVID STRESSED THAT THIS WOULD BE A CRITICAL FACTOR IN FUTURE.

"SINCE THE WORLD’S ECONOMIES, INCLUDING OUR OWN,' ARE LIKELY TO BE AFFECTED, IT IS ALL THE MORE IMPORTANT THAT HONG KONG'S INDUSTRY SHOULD BE EFFICIENTLY AND PRODUCTIVELY RUN," HE SAID.

"THE YEARS AHEAD WILL BE YEARS OF CHANGE," SIR DAVID SAID.

"INDUSTRY WILL MOVE AWAY FROM LOW TECHNOLOGY, LABOUR INTENSIVE METHODS TO THOSE INVOLVING HIGHER LEVELS OF TECHNOLOGY AND RELYING LESS ON LARGE NUMBERS OF RELATIVELY UNSKILLED WORKERS.

"THE QUEST FOR HIGHER PRODUCTIVITY AND IMPROVED EFFICIENCY MUST CONTINUE.

"ONLY IN THIS WAY WILL WE BE ABLE TO RETAIN THE COMPETITIVENESS OF OUR INDUSTRIAL BASE AND ENSURE THAT OUR PRESENT PROSPERITY WILL CONTINUE."

HE POINTED OUT THAT ONE KEY TO THIS TRANSITION WOULD BE THE ABILITY OF MANAGEMENT TO ANTICIPATE DEVELOPMENTS RATHER THAN MERELY REACT TO THEM.

SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT ATTACHED GREAT IMPORTANCE TO THE WORK DONE BY THE HONG KONG MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION TO PROMOTE THE EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF MANAGEMENT, ADDING THAT THE ASSOCIATION’S ROLE WOULD CONTINUE TO BE AN IMPORTANT ELEMENT IN THE EFFORTS TO ADAPT TO A CHANGING WORLD.

"GOOD MANAGEMENT IN INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE, AS WELL AS IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE, IS ESSENTIAL IF WE ARE TO MAXIMISE THE POTENTIAL OF HONG KONG AND ITS PEOPLE," HE SAID.

-----0------

/4........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1987

INDUSTRIAL FOCUS ON QUALITY ASSURANCE * t t t

THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT EMPLOYED CONSULTANTS EARLIER THIS YEAR TO ADVISE IT ON A PROMOTIONAL STRATEGY FOR THE APPLICATION OF QUALITY ASSURANCE, THE DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR K.Y. YEUNG, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).

SPEAKING AT A DINNER GIVEN BY THE CHINESE MANUFACTURERS' ASSOCIATION’S GENERAL COMMITTEE, MR YEUNG SAID THE CONSULTANTS’ RECOMMENDATIONS AND THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT’S ASSESSMENT WERE EXAMINED BY THE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD LAST MONTH.

HE POINTED OUT THAT THE AGREED RECOMMENDATIONS GENERALLY INCLUDED THE NEED TO INTRODUCE A SUSTAINED, TERRITORY-WIDE QUALITY DRIVE IN MANUFACTURING.

"IT WILL POSSIBLY BE SUPPORTED BY A SCHEME BY WHICH THE GOVERNMENT ty’OULD ACCORD OFFICIAL RECOGNITION TO MANUFACTURERS WHO PRACTISE QUALITY ASSURANCE, IN MUCH THE SAME WAY AS THE GOVERNMENT ACCREDITS LABORATORIES UNDER THE HONG KONG LABORATORY ACCREDITATION SCHEME ( HOKLAS ) ,’’ HE SAID.

"THE DEPARTMENT WILL ALSO UNDERTAKE A SURVEY OF TRADE AND INDUSTRIAL ORGANISATIONS AND INDIVIDUAL FIRMS TO DETERMINE WHAT PRECISELY IS BEING DONE IN TERMS OF QUALITY WORK AT PRESENT, WHAT DIFFICULTIES ARE BEING ENCOUNTERED, AND WHAT MANUFACTURERS’ REACTION WOULD BE TO THE POSSIBLE INTRODUCTION OF A GOVERNMENT-RUN QUALITY ACCREDITATION SCHEME FOR MANUFACTURING FIRMS.

"THE SURVEY WILL TAKE SEVERAL MONTHS TO COMPLETE."

MR YEUNG SAID THE WAY AHEAD COULD INVOLVE A MAJOR CHANGE OF ATTITUDE ON THE PART OF MANUFACTURERS TOWARDS ACHIEVING WORLDWIDE RECOGNITION FOR QUALITY, AND MAINTAINING THAT LEADING POSITION.

"TO ASSIST MANUFACTURERS TO PRACTISE QUALITY ASSURANCE EXTENSIVELY, THE GOVERNMENT HAS PROVIDED AN ADEQUATE RANGE OF SUPPORTING SERVICES," HE SAID.

"IN ADDITION TO THE HONG KONG STANDARDS AND CALIBRATION LABORATORY AND HOKLAS, THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT’S PRODUCT STANDARDS INFORMATION BUREAU ALSO MAINTAINS A REFERENCE LIBRARY OF STANDARDS AND OPERATES A FREE TELEPHONE ENQUIRY SERVICE TO HELP INTERPRET THE TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF VARIOUS STANDARDS.

"THE FACT THAT THE NUMBER OF ENQUIRIES DEALT WITH HAS GROWN FROM 25 IN 1984; TO 193 IN 1985; TO 520 IN 1986 AND TO 1,021 IN THE FIRST 10 MONTHS OF THIS YEAR IS A CLEAR INDICATION OF THE INCREASING USEFULNESS OF THIS SERVICE TO MANUFACTURERS.

/"APART FROM........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1987

"APART FROM THE TECHNICAL SUPPORT SERVICES, MANUFACTURERS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN INTRODUCING QUALITY ASSURANCE INTO THEIR FACTORIES WOULD NEED HELP AND ADVICE.

"ACCORDINGLY, THE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD HAS RECENTLY ENDORSED OUR PROPOSALS FOR ALLOWING THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL TO CREATE, WITHIN ITS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY SERVICE DIVISION, A CAPABILITY FOR GIVING MANUFACTURERS APPROPRIATE ADVICE. THE SERVICE SHOULD BE IN PLACE IN 1988-89."

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GOVERNOR TO VISIT MONG KOK

*****

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AND LADY WILSON WILL VISIT MONG KOK DISTRICT TOMORROW (FRIDAY).

THEY WILL START AT THE TUNG CHOI STREET HAWKER PERMITTED PLACE TO SEE ITS DAILY OPERATION AND THE PROGRESS OF THE ELECTRIFICATION SCHEME FOR THE HAWKER STALLS.

THEY WILL THEN WALK ALONG PORTLAND STREET AND BE BRIEFED ON ACTION TAKEN TO CONTROL THE ACTIVITIES OF VICE ESTABLISHMENTS.

THE PARTY WILL PROCEED ON FOOT TO A PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL BUILDING IN CANTON ROAD TO LOOK AT PROBLEMS RELATING TO BUILDING MANAGEMENT.

THE LAST STOP OF THE VISIT WILL BE THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB MONG KOK DISTRICT CULTURAL RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ASSOCIATION LIM POR YEN CENTRE WHERE THEY WILL- SEE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES AND SERVICES FOR THE RESIDENTS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE GOVERNOR’S VISIT TO MONG KOK TOMORROW (FRIDAY). MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE REQUESTED TO ASSEMBLE AT THE JUNCTION OF SOY STREET AND TUNG CHOI STREET AT 2.15 PM. GIS OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

- - 0 - -

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1987

- 6 -

FMO PRAISED FOR ROLE IN EDUCATION *****

A LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MR CHUNG PUI-LAM, TODAY (THURSDAY) PRAISED THE FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION FOR ITS FAR-SIGHTEDNESS AND EFFORTS MADE TO PROVIDE EDUCATION FOR THE CHILDREN OF HONG KONG FISHERMEN.

"UNTIL THE 1940'S, WHEN THE FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION TOOK UP THE RESPONSIBILITY IN PROVIDING FISHERMEN’S CHILDREN WITH EDUCATION, YOUNGSTERS WERE LEFT TO THEIR OWN DEVICES, WORK IN REMOTE CORNERS OF HONG KONG AND THE NEW TERRITORIES AND RECEIVE LITTLE OR NO EDUCATION," MR CHUNG SAID.

"IN NEARLY 40 YEARS, THE FMO SCHOOLS HAVE ACHIEVED SPECTACULAR RESULTS IN PROVIDING A BASIC LEVEL OF EDUCATION."

THIS, COUPLED WITH THE EFFORTS BEING MADE TO IMPROVE THE TECHNICAL KNOW-HOW AND LIVELIHOOD OF FISHERMEN, REFLECTED THAT THOSE WHO MANAGE THE FMO LIVE UP TO THE HIGH IDEALS OF THE ORGANISATION, HE ADDED.

MR CHUNG WAS ADDRESSING 600 GRADUATES FROM FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION SCHOOLS AT A CEREMONY HELD AT THE CITY HALL CONCERT HALL.

THE FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION BEGAN SETTING UP SCHOOLS IN THE LATE 1940’S. IT NOW RUNS 11 PRIMARY SCHOOLS AND ONE SECONDARY TECHNICAL SCHOOL WITH ABOUT 2,500 STUDENTS.

MR CHUNG STRESSED THAT THE FUTURE OF A COMMUNITY DEPENDED UPON THE QUALITY OF ITS PEOPLE WHO IN TURN RELIED ON THE QUANTITY AND QUALITY OF THE EDUCATION THEY RECEIVED.

"FROM SCHOOLS, STUDENTS ACQUIRE THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE PRINCIPLES OF BEHAVIOUR, WORK AND STUDY. SO, WHEN THEY COME TO PUT WHAT THEY HAVE LEARNED INTO PRACTICE IN SOCIETY, THEY ARE CAPABLE OF SEEKING NEW KNOWLEDGE AND MAKING PROGRESS, AND THEY ARE INSTINCTIVELY CAPABLE OF DOING WHAT IS RIGHT IN ENHANCING THE PROSPERITY OF SOCIETY AND ESTABLISHING GOOD SOCIAL NORMS," HE SAID.

BESIDES BEING ABLE TO KEEP ABREAST WITH THE TIMES, HE SAID, THEY MIGHT EVEN GO FURTHER TO REFORM THE EXISTING INSTITUTIONS AND TO CREATE NEW TRENDS.

MR CHUNG SAID THAT MOST RESIDENTS OF HONG KONG HAD EITHER HAD A SOUND EDUCATION FOUNDATION IN SCHOOLS OR HAD MADE THEIR OWN EFFORTS IN ADVANCING THEIR STUDIES AFTER THEY HAD STARTED WORK.

THURSDAY, IJCYSJSER 26, 1987.

- 7 -

"ALL OF THEM HAVE CONTRIBUTED IN MAKING HONG KONG A MIRACLE OF THE WORLD. THE CONTINUATION OF THIS MIRACLE REQUIRES OUR UNYIELDING EFFORTS," HE SAID.

EARLIER, IN HIS INTRODUCTORY SPEECH, THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, DR LAWRENCE LEE, PAID TRIBUTE TO MR CHUNG FOR HIS CLOSE ASSOCIATION WITH THE DEVELOPMENT AND WORK OF THE FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION AND FOR HIS VALUABLE CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE INDUSTRY AND THE BETTERMENT OF THE FISHING COMMUNITY.

--------J ----------

HOW TO FACE THE CHALLENGE OF OLD AGE *****

THE.DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, TODAY (THURSDAY) URGED THE ELDERLY TO FACE THE CHALLENGE OF OLD AGE IN A POSITIVE MANNER.

SPEAKING AT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE HONG KONG SOCIETY FOR THE AGED AT THE DUKE OF WINDSOR SOCIAL SERVICE BUILDING, SHE SAID THAT THE USUAL PROBLEMS FACED BY THE ELDERLY WERE FAILING HEALTH, THE FEELING OF LONELINESS, TOO MUCH FREE TIME AND THE SENSE OF BEING OUT OF TOUCH WITH AN EVER-CHANGING WORLD.

SHE SUGGESTED THAT THE ELDERLY COULD KEEP UP THEIR PHYSICAL WELL-BEING BY HAVING PLENTY OF EXERCISE, REST AND SLEEP AND MAINTAINING A HAPPY MOOD.

"WHEN HEALTH BEGINS TO FAIL, THEY CAN MAKE USE OF THE VARIOUS COMMUNITY RESOURCES SUCH AS COMMUNITY NURSING, HOME HELP, DAY CARE CENTRES AND CARE-AND-ATTENTION HOMES," MRS WONG SAID.

SHE ALSO URGED ELDERLY PEOPLE TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS BY JOINING THE MULTI-SERVICE CENTRES AND SOCIAL CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY. IN ADDITION, THEY COULD TAKE PART IN VOLUNTEER WORK IF THEY WERE IN GOOD HEALTH.

ELDERLY PEOPLE COULD ALSO PUT THEIR FREE TIME TO A GOOD USE BY LEARNING ABOUT NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN SOCIETY.

--------0 -

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1987

VARIETY SHOW TO PROMOTE CRIME PREVENTION t t t t

A VARIETY SHOW TO PROMOTE CRIME PREVENTION WILL BE HELD AT THE TAI PO PLAYGROUND TOMORROW (FRIDAY)' EVENING AS PART OF TAI PO’S FIGHT CRIME CAMPAIGN.

THE SHOW, JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL AND SPONSORED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD, WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM.

THE PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE SINGING, A SHORT PLAY ON THE NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH SCHEME AND A QUIZ ON FIGHT CRIME.

ADMISSION IS FREE AND RESIDENTS ARE WELCOME TO SHARE THE FUN.

OFFICIATING AT THE FUNCTION WILL BE THE ACTING TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICER, MISS WINDY KWOK; THE POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR J.F. GRfeENE; THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR STEPHEN WONG; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, MR HO WAI-MAN. * . .

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE TAI PO DISTRICT CRIME PREVENTION VARIETY SHOW STARTING AT 8 PM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT THE TAI PO PLAYGROUND IN HEUNG SZE WUI STREET, TAI PO MARKET.

-----0------

FANLING SHOW AIMED AT CURBING FALLING OBJECT HAZARD

* * *

A VARIETY SHOW, INTENDED TO CONVEY THE "ANTI-FALLING OBJECT” MESSAGE, WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 28) EVENING AT THE CENTRAL PLAYGROUND OF CHEUNG WAH ESTATE IN FANLING.

ORGANISED BY THE MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES OF THE CHEUNG WAH ESTATE, THE SHOW FORMS PART OF THE DISTRICT’S CIVIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN WHICH HAS THE THEME, ’’DEVELOP YOUR POTENTIAL, PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES”.

THE PROGRAMME FOR THE SHOW INCLUDES SONGS, A QUIZ AND A DRAMA ON THE DANGER CAUSED BY THROWING OBJECTS OUT OF WINDOWS. A COLOURING AND DRAWING COMPETITION WILL BE HELD BEFORE THE SHOW.

/OFFICIATING AT

- 9 -

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING WILL BE THE DISTRICT OFFICER. MR MATTHEW CHEUNG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR RAYMOND PANG; AND THE POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER (FRONTIER), MR GYWN LLOYD.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER NORTH DISTRICT'S ”ANTI-FALLING OBJECT” VARIETY SHOW ON SATURDAY. THE SHOW WILL BEGIN AT 7.30 PM IN THE CENTRAL PLAYGROUND OF CHEUNG WAH ESTATE, FANLING.

-----0------

CARNIVAL TO ALERT YOUTHS TO FIGHT CRIME *****

A CARNIVAL, SPECIALLY ORGANISED FOR YOUTHS IN WONG TAI SIN TO DRIVE HOME THE FIGHT CRIME MESSAGE, WILL BE HELD AT MORSE PARK ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 29).

ORGANISED BY THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE AND THE POLICE, THE CARNIVAL WILL START AT 1 PM AND BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC WITHOUT CHARGE.

THERE WILL BE GAME STALLS SET UP BY YOUTH ORGANISATIONS; EXHIBITIONS ON CRIME PREVENTION, ANTI-DRUGS, AND ROAD SAFETY; A DISPLAY OF THE LATEST MODEL OF POLICE CAR; AND A DRAMA PERFORMED BY MEMBERS OF THE JUNIOR POLICE CALL.

OTHER PERFORMANCES WILL INCLUDE CHINESE FOLK DANCE, BAND PARADE, MAGIC SHOW, FOLK DANCE, SINGING, AND A SHOW BY TELEVISION ARTISTES.

FREE GAMESTALL COUPONS ARE NOW OBTAINABLE AT THE BRANCH OFFICES OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE WONG TAI SIN POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS OFFICE. COUPONS WILL ALSO BE DISTRIBUTED AT THE ENTRANCE ON SUNDAY.

OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING WILL BE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR MICHAEL CHENG; CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT’S FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, MR.ALBERT LI; WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR NG HON-WAH; ACTING COMMISSIONER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, MR G.D. HYDES; AND POLICE DEPUTY DISTRICT COMMANDER, MRS MARIA KONG.

/ox su?:

ON SUNDAY MORNING, MEMBERS OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE WILL MEET MEMBERS OF THE DISTRICT’S AREA COMMITTEES AND MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AT MORSE PARK INDOOR GAMES HALL, TO EXCHANGE VIEWS ON CRIME PREVENTION. KAIFONGS WHO WISH TO PARTICIPATE IN THE DISCUSSION ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER BOTH THE ’’WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE MEETS AC AND MAC” SESSION TO BE HELD AT 11 AM ON SUNDAY AT MORSE PARK INDOOR GAMES HALL AND THE FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL BEGINNING AT 1 PM AT THE MORSE PARK FOOTBALL PITCHES.

- - 0

ENTRIES INVITED FOR DANCE CONTEST t * * t

DANCE ENTHUSIASTS ARE BEING INVITED TO COMPETE IN THE 17TH OPEN DANCE CONTEST TO BE HELD EARLY NEXT YEAR.

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT CULTURE AND RECREATION PROMOTION ASSOCIATION, THE ANNUAL EVENT IS CO-ORGANISED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL AND SPONSORED BY THE KWUN TONG ROTARY CLUB.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID THE CONTEST WAS AIMED AT PROMOTING THE ART OF DANCING.

“IT IS DIVIDED INTO CHILDREN, YOUTH AND OPEN SECTIONS AND PARTICIPANTS CAN PERFORM EITHER CLASSICAL, MODERN, ORIENTAL OR WESTERN DANCES," HE ADDED.

THE COMPETITION WILL BE HELD AT THE NING PO NO. 2 COLLEGE, KWUN TONG FROM JANUARY 23 TO 28 NEXT YEAR. WINNING GROUPS WILL PERFORM AT CITY HALL IN APRIL.

ENTRY FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE MAIN OFFICE OF KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE RECREATION, AMENITY AND SPORTS OFFICE, URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, BOTH LOCATED IN THE KWUN TONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING IN TUNG YAN STREET.

COMPLETED FORMS, TOGETHER WITH AN ENTRY FEE OF $30, SHOULD BE SUBMITTED IN PfeRSON OR BY POST TO THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICE.

THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION IS DECEMBER 15. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 3-416315 OR 3-436123.

- - 0 -

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1987

SPEEDPOST SERVICE TO INDIA EXTENDED * * * »

THE SPEEDPOST SERVICE TO INDIA WILL BE EXTENDED TO THE CITIES

OF AGARTALA AND SILCHAR WITH EFFECT FROM DECEMBER 1, 1987, A

SPOKESMAN FOR THE POST OFFICE SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).

THIS WILL BRING TO 16 THE NUMBER OF CITIES IN INDIA TO WHICH

SPEEDPOST SERVICE IS AVAILABLE. THEY ARE AGARTALA, BANGALORE, BOMBAY, CALCUTTA, COCHIN, DELHI, GUWAHATI, INDORE, JAIPUR, KANPUR, MADRAS, PUNE, SILCHAR AND VADODARA.

AHMEDABAD, HYDERABAD,

’’THE SPEEDPOST SERVICE IS A FAST AND RELIABLE MEANS FOR FORWARDING BUSINESS DOCUMENTS, SAMPLES AND MERCHANDISE OVERSEAS AND A FREE PICK-UP SERVICE IS AVAILABLE,’’ THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT.

INFORMATION ABOUT THE SERVICE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE POSTAL SERVICES REPRESENTATIVES ON 5-8471108.

- - 0

SEARCH AND RESCUE COURSE MEMBERS TO RECEIVE CERTIFICATES

*****

THE 33 OFFICERS FROM FOUR GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND THE THREE CHINESE REPRESENTATIVES ATTENDING SEARCH AND RESCUE COURSE CONDUCTED BY U.S. COAST GUARD OFFICERS WILL BE PRESENTED WITH CERTIFICATES ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 28).

THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR GERRY HIGGINSON, WILL SPEAK AT THE CEREMONY WHICH WILL MARK THE END OF THE TWO-WEEK INTENSIVE COURSE ORGANISED BY THE MARINE DEPARTMENT.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WISHING TO COVER THE EVENT ARE REQUESTED TO ASSEMBLE OUTSIDE THE EXAMINATION HALL OF THE MARINE DEPARTMENT ON THE THIRD FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, NO LATER THAN 10.50 AM.

- - 0 -

/12

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1937

- 12 -

FOUR SITES FOR AUCTION TOMORROW *****

THREE INDUSTRIAL SITES AND A PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL SITE ARE TO BE OFFERED FOR SALE BY’ AUCTION BY THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE TOMORROW (FRIDAY).

ONE OF THE INDUSTRIAL SITES IS AT KOWLOON BAY’ RECLAMATION. COVERING AN AREA OF ABOUT 22,280 SQUARE METRES, IT IS FOR INDUSTRIAL/GODOWN OR TRADE MART PURPOSES.

THE OTHER TWO ARE LOCATED AT YUEN CHAU KOK IN SHA TIN’ AND AT ON LOK TSUEN IN FANLING, HAVING AREAS OF ABOUT 4,582 AND 2,563 SQUARE METRES RESPECTIVELY. BOTH ARE FOR INDUSTRIAL AND/OR GODOWN USES, BUT NOT FOR OFFENSIVE TRADES.

THE PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL SITE, MEASURING ABOUT 19,460 SQUARE METRES, IS LOCATED AT TUEN MUN TOWN CENTRE NEAR CHI LOK FA YUEN.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE AUCTION WHICH WILL START AT 2.30 PM AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE TOMORROW.

-----0------

NEW DUMPING AREA IN JUNK BAY

*****

A NEW DUMPING AREA WILL BE OPENED TO PUBLIC FROM TUESDAY (DECEMBER 1) AT HANG HAU, JUNK BAY, THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).

’’APPLICATIONS FOR PERMITS CAN NOW BE MADE AT THE NEW TERRITORIES/SOUTH DEVELOPMENT OFFICE ON THE 17TH FLOOR OF MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, CENTRAL,” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.

’’APPLICANTS ARE REQUIRED TO FORWARD COPIES OF THEIR VALID DRIVING LICENCE AND VEHICLE REGISTRATION RECORD.”

THE OPENING HOURS OF THE DUMP WILL BE FROM 8.30 AM TO 4.30 PM DAILY, EXCEPT ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS WHEN IT WILL BE CLOSED.

/access to

THURSDAY, 3C7SJB3R io, 1?c7

- 13 -

ACCESS TO THE CHUNG UAH SHIPYARD.

AREA WILL BE FROM

HANG HAL' ROAD,

ADJACENT TO

WHEEL WASHING FACILITIES WILL BE PROVIDED AT THE EXIT.

THE SPOKESMAN ALSO SAID THE PUBLIC DUMP AT MA ON SHAN, SHA TIN, WOULD BE CLOSED FROM 4.30 PM ON SATURDAY (DECEMBER 5).

"VALID PERMITS FOR MA ON SHAN DUMP WILL, HOWEVER, BE ACCEPTED AT HANG HAU UNTIL DECEMBER 31,” HE ADDED.

-----o------

SPEEDPOST EXTENDED TO CONGO

*****

THE SPEEDPOST SERVICE WILL BE EXTENDED TO CONGO WITH EFFECT FROM DECEMBER 1, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE POST OFFICE SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).

THIS WILL BRING TO 53 THE NUMBER OF COUNTRIES INCLUDED IN THE SPEEDPOST NETWORK SERVED FROM HONG KONG.

"SPEEDPOST ITEMS WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR TRANSMISSION TO BRAZZAVILLE AND POINTE-NOIRE IN CONGO," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

"ITEMS POSTED ON MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY WILL BE L~LIVERED ON THE SECOND WORKING DAY WHILE THOSE POSTED ON THURSDAY WILL BE DELIVERED ON THE THIRD WORKING DAY. ITEMS POSTED ON SATURDAY W.LL BE DELIVERED ON THE NEXT WORKING DAY AFTER POSTING," HE ADDED.

THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT LIMIT IS 20 KG PER ITEM AND THE POSTAGE RATES ARE : $90 FOR ITEMS WEIGHING UNDER 250 G; $120 FOR ITEMS WEIGHING BETWEEN 250 G AND 500 G; AND $50 FOR EACH SUBSEQUENT ADDITIONAL 500 G. PICK UP SERVICE BY THE POST OFFICE FROM CUSTOMERS’ PREMISES IS FREE.

"THE SPEEDPOST SERVICE IS A FAST AND RELIABLE MEANS FOR FORWARDING DOCUMENTS, SAMPLES AND MERCHANDISE OVERSEAS, THE SPOKESMAN NOTED.

INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPEEDPOST SERVICE TO CONGO AND THE SPEEDPOST SERVICE IN GENERAL CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE POSTAL SERVICES REPRESENTATIVES ON 5-8471108.

--------o ----------

/14........

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1987

- u -

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS REPORT ON FLATTED FACTORY UNITS t t t * *

THE COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY COMMITTEE OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD WILL MEET TOMORROW (FRIDAY) TO DISCUSS THE REPORT ON THE SALE/OCCUPANCY OF FLATTED FACTORY UNITS IN TUEN MUN.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY COMMITTEE MEETING BEGINNING AT 10 AM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE DISTRICT BOARD SECRETARIAT, THIRD FLOOR, GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 1 TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN.

-----0------

RESTRICTED ZONES IN KENNEDY TOWN t * * *

TWO ROAD SECTIONS IN KENNEDY TOWN WILL BE DESIGNATED 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY RESTRICTED ZONES FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 28).

THEY ARE:

* QUEEN’S ROAD WEST BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH KENNEDY TOWN PRAYA AND A POINT ABOUT 90 METRES EAST OF THE SAME JUNCTION;

AND

* A 20-METRE STRETCH ALONG BELCHER’S STREET SOUTH OF ITS JUNCTION WITH QUEEN’S ROAD WEST.

NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREAS.

AT THE SAME TIME, THE EXISTING PEAK HOUR (I.E. 7-10 AM AND

4-10 PM) DAILY RESTRICTED ZONE ON QUEEN’S ROAD WEST BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH KENNEDY TOWN PRAYA AND A POINT ABOUT 35 METRES EAST OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE LIFTED.

- 0 ----------

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

INITIAL STEP TO DRAFT LEGISLATION TO DEAL WITH VICE DEN SIGNS ...................................................... 1

GOVERNOR TOLD ABOUT MONG KOK IMPROVEMENT PLANS.............. 2

FS: MARKETS WILL BECOME WISER AFTER RECENT EVENTS............ 4

GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO LONG-TERM ROAD PROJECTS ............. 5

SALE OF FOUR LOTS FETCHES S8O6.5 MILLION .................... 7

PROVISIONAL HONG KONG COUNCIL FOR ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION ... 8

STI ATTENDS GATT MEETING IN GENEVA ......................... 9

SINO-BRITISH LaND COMMISSION MEETING........................ 10

SCHOOL HEADS TO ATTEND SEMINAR ON PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG ABUSE .. 10

APPOINTMENTS TO LIVESTOCK WaSTE DISPOSAL CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE ANNOUNCED.....................................— 11

VIGOROUS DRIVE AGAINST COUNTRYSIDE LITTERBUGS TO BEGIN ..... 1J

FINES PROPOSED FOR FALSE ELECTIONEERING CLAIMS ............. 15

BILLS GIVE PROFESSIONAL COUNCILS RIGHT TO ELECT OWN CHAIRMEN 16

CHANGE IN LOTTERIES FUND PROCEDURE PROPOSED ................ 17

MORE SOCIAL CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY PLANNED ................ 18

TWO VIETNAMESE BOYS SUFFERING FROM CHOLERA ................. 19

NEW SECONDARY SCHOOL FOR YUEN LONG ......................... 20

PUBLIC URGED TO BE ALERT TO HIDDEN HOME DANGERS............. 20

PHOTO EXHIBITION TO SPREAD FIGHT CRIME MESSAGES............. 21

FIRE PREVENTION EXHIBITION TO BE HELD IN TaIKOO SHING..... 22

KWUN TONG RESIDENTS TO LEARN ABOUT DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION . 22

CARNIVAL TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE ..... 23

CELEBRITY FOOTBALL MaTCH TO CLOSE SPORTS FESTIVAL .......... 24

NORTH ORGANISATIONS PRAISED FOR ART PROMOTION............... 24

SAI KUNG FESTIVAL FOR ELDERLY TO CLOSE...................... 25

SaND SCULPTURING AND STREET SHOW aT MUI WO ................. 26

NEW ROADS IN HaNG HAU, JUNK BAY ............................ 27

TENDERS INVITED FOR HIRE OF MOTOR BOATS TO CUSTOMS ......... 28

URBAN CLEARWAY IN WAN CHAI ................................. 29

TRAFFIC CHaNGES FOR OPENING OF WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR ....... 29

TRAFFIC CHaNGES IN TUEN MUN FOR JUNCTION RECONSTRUCTION .... JO

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

INITIAL STEP TO DRAFT LEGISLATION TO DEAL WITH VICE DEN SIGNS ♦ * * * «

AN ATTEMPT IS BEING MADE TO DRAFT LEGISLATION WHICH WILL HELP TO DEAL WITH PROBLEMS OF SIGNS OF VICE ESTABLISHMENTS, THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).

SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AT THE END OF A VISIT TO MONG KOK DISTRICT, SIR DAVID SAID THE PROBLEM OF SIGNPOSTS AND SIGNS OF VICE DENS WAS NOT AN EASY ONE TO DEAL WITH BECAUSE THE LEGISLATION WAS NOT THERE TO DEAL WITH IT.

’’THE POLICE ARE BEING VERY ACTIVE TRYING TO DEAL WITH THE QUESTION OF VICE DENS. THERE ARE OTHER PROBLEMS SUCH AS, IN PARTICULAR, THE NEED TO DEAL WITH SIGNPOSTS OR SIGNS OUTSIDE IN THE STREET WHICH OFFEND SOME PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY AND WHICH IN OTHER CASES ARE POSSIBLY DANGEROUS BECAUSE THEY ARE TOO LARGE," HE SAID.

"THERE IS AT THE MOMENT AN ATTEMPT BEING MADE TO DRAFT LEGISLATION WHICH WILL HELP TO DEAL WITH THOSE PROBLEMS. BUT NOBODY PRETENDS THAT IT IS AN EASY PROBLEM TO GET ON TOP OF," HE ADDED.

IN REPLY TO A QUESTION ON THE GOVERNMENT’S ACTIONS TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF AIDS THROUGH PROSTITUTION, SIR DAIVD SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD LAUNCHED A VERY SUBSTANTIAL CAMPAIGN TO TRY TO EDUCATE PEOPLE ABOUT THE PROBLEM OF AIDS.

"IT’S NOT JUST THE PROBLEM OF AIDS THROUGH PROSTITUTION, BUT AIDS IN EVERY OTHER FORM OF SEXUAL CONTACT. IT MEANS A MASSIVE EDUCATION CAMPAIGN THAT IS NOW BEING DONE," HE NOTED.

REFERRING TO HIS VISIT TO THE DISTRICT, SIR DAVID SAID HE WAS IMPRESSED TO SEE HOW THE PROBLEM OF HAWKING COULD BE CHANNELLED AND BROUGHT UNDER CONTROL BY THE HAWKERS PERMITTED AREA SCHEME, AND HOW THE PROBLEM OF ILLEGAL CONNECTION OF ELECTRICITY IN THAT AREA WAS DEALT WITH BY THE LEGAL METERING SYSTEM.

"ALL THE HAWKERS WHOM I TALKED TO THERE SAID IT WAS A GREAT IMPROVEMENT OVER THE PAST BECAUSE IT WAS A SAFER SYSTEM AND IT IS ALSO A MUCH TIDIER SYSTEM THAN IT HAD BEEN BEFORE," HE SAID.

SIR DAVID SAID HE WAS ALSO IMPRESSED BY THE WORK OF THE OWNERS CORPORATIONS (OC’S) IN IMPROVING THE CONDITIONS OF PRIVATE BUILDINGS.

HE SAID THE BUILDING HE VISITED THIS AFTERNOON WAS 23 YEARS’ OLD AND HAD BECOME VERY DILAPIDATED, BUT BECAUSE OF THE EFFICIENCY AND ENERGY OF THE OWNERS CORPORATION, THE BUILDING’S CONDITIONS WERE GREATLY IMPROVED.

/SIR DAVID

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2?, 1987

2 -

SIR DAVID ADDED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS TRYING TO HELP THE OC’S BY OPERATING A NUMBER OF BUILDING MANAGEMENT CO-ORDINATION TEAMS IN VARIOUS DISTRICTS, AND NOTED THAT IT WAS ONE OF THOSE TEAMS WHICH HELPED TO BRING ABOUT THE IMPROVEMENT IN THE BUILDING WHICH HE VISITED.

HE SAID THERE WAS ALSO AN ATTEMPT BEING MADE TO IMPROVE THE LEGISLATION RELATING TO BUILDING MANAGEMENT AND BY LAWYERS TO DRAW UP TERMS OF REFERENCE TO HELP PEOPLE TO FORM OC’S.

-----0------

GOVERNOR TOLD ABOUT MONG KOK IMPROVEMENT PLANS

*****

MORE OPEN SPACE AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES HAVE BEEN PLANNED FOR MONG KOK - THE TERRITORY’S MOST DENSELY POPULATED AREA, THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AND LADY WILSON WERE TOLD DURING THEIR VISIT TO THE DISTRICT THIS (FRIDAY) AFTERNOON.

THEY LEARNT THAT AN ORDERLY PATTERN OF LAND USE TO PROVIDE RESIDENTS WITH VARIOUS KINDS OF FACILITIES IN THE FUTURE HAS BEEN PREPARED.

IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, MONG KOK WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE, TWO CENTRES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH AND THREE CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY.

ACCOMPANIED BY THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR T.H. CHAU, SIR DAVID AND LADY WILSON BEGAN THEIR TOUR FROM THE TUNG CHOI STREET HAWKER PERMITTED PLACE.

THEY WERE MET BY THE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR CHOW CHUN-FAI, AND THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MRS BRENDA FUNG, BEFORE STROLLING ALONG THE BUSY "WOMEN’S STREET".

THE GOVERNOR WAS BRIEFED BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (KOWLOON) OF URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR TOMMY CHOY, ON THE HAWKER PERMITTED PLACE WHICH EXTENDED FROM ARGYLE STREET TO DUNDAS STREET IN FOUR SECTIONS, ACCOMMODATING 960 DRY GOODS STALLS.

HE WAS TOLD THAT THE PLACE IS A POPULAR SHOPPING CENTRE NOT ONLY FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS BUT ALSO FOR PEOPLE FROM OTHER DISTRICTS.

/AS THE

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27. 1987

AS THE STALLS WERE PREVIOUSLY NOT PROVIDED WITH A PROPER SUPPLY OF ELECTRICITY, THERE HAD BEEN ILLEGAL TAPPING FROM NEARBY BUILDINGS WHICH POSED SERIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY PROBLEMS.

WITH THE JOINT EFFORTS OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE, DISTRICT BOARD AND CHINA LIGHT AND POWER CO. LTD, AN ELECTRIFICATION SCHEME WAS LAUNCHED IN 1984.

THE GOVERNOR WAS INFORMED THAT LEGAL POWER SUPPLY IS BEING PROVIDED FOR THE SECTIONS BETWEEN ARGYLE STREET AND SHANTUNG STREET. PLANS ARE IN HAND TO EXTEND THE SCHEME TO PROVIDE LEGAL ELECTRICITY TO THE REMAINING TWO SECTIONS.

SIR DAVID THEN WALKED ALONG PORTLAND STREET WHERE HE WAS BRIEFED BY THE POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER (MONG KOK), MR E.J. LOCKEYEAR, ON THE ACTIONS TAKEN AGAINST THE PROBLEM OF VICE ESTABLISHMENTS. HE WAS ALSO TOLD ABOUT THE VARIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL NUISANCES CAUSED BY THESE ESTABLISHMENTS AND OVERHANGING SIGNBOARDS.

HE NOTED THAT A BILL TO AMEND THE CRIMES ORDINANCE TO BETTER CONTROL NUISANCES ASSOCIATED WITH PROSTITUTION IS AT AN ADVANCED DRAFTING STAGE.

THE PROPOSED NEW LEGISLATION IS AIMED AT REMOVING SIGNS ADVERTISING ANY FORM OF PROSTITUTION AND CLOSING PREMISES BEING USED AS VICE ESTABLISHMENTS FOR A PERIOD OF TIME WHERE TWO OR MORE CONVICTIONS FOR CERTAIN SPECIFIED OFFENCES HAVE BEEN SECURED IN RELATION TO THE PREMISES WITHIN TWELVE MONTHS.

THE GOVERNOR ALSO LEARNT THAT THE MONG KOK POLICE ARE AT PRESENT CARRYING OUT CONSTANT RAIDS ON VICE ESTABLISHMENTS IN ORDER TO CONTAIN AND REDUCE THE PROBLEM.

INTENSIVE RAIDS OVER THE PAST YEAR HAVE SUCCESSFULLY CLOSED DOWN OVER 100 VICE ESTABLISHMENTS IN THE DISTRICT, SIR DAVID WAS TOLD.

THE PARTY THEN PROCEEDED ON FOOT TO A PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL BLOCK IN CANTON ROAD, KWONG FOOK BUILDING TO LEARN ABOUT PROBLEMS RELATING TO BUILDING MANAGEMENT.

THE 23-YEAR-OLD BUILDING IS ONE OF THE TARGET BUILDINGS CHOSEN FOR IMPROVEMENT BY THE BUILDING MANAGEMENT CO-ORDINATION TEAM OF THE MONG KOK DISTRICT OFFICE.

A SERIES OF IMPROVEMENTS WERE EFFECTED BY THE OWNERS’ CORPORATION WITH ASSISTANCE FROM THE MANAGEMENT TEAM AND CO-OPERATION FROM RESIDENTS.

MAJOR REPAIRS INCLUDED THE REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE WASTE WATER PIPES, WHITE-WASHING OF WALLS, RENEWAL OF TWO LIFT CARS AND REPLACEMENT OF FIRE SERVICES INSTALLATIONS.

/THE GOVERNOR

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27« 1987

THE GOVERNOR COMMENDED THE OWNERS’ CORPORATION FOR THE IMPROVEMENTS MADE TO THE LIVING CONDITIONS OF THE RESIDENTS.

HE ALSO TOOK THE OPPORTUNITY TO CALL ON A FAMILY ON THE EIGHTH FLOOR WHICH HAD RESIDED IN THE BUILDING FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS.

THE FINAL STOP OF THE VISIT WAS THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB MONG KOK DISTRICT CULTURAL RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ASSOCIATION LIM POR YEN CENTRE IN TAI KOK TSUI.

THE GOVERNOR WAS BRIEFED ON THE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE CENTRE. HE SHOWED GREAT INTEREST IN ACTIVITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AND WATCHED FITNESS EXERCISES IN THE GYMNASIUM AND CLASSES IN THE DANCING STUDIO.

BEFORE CONCLUDING THE VISIT, THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON ATTENDED A TEA RECEPTION AND MET DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS AND LOCAL COMMUNITY LEADERS.

-----0------

FS: MARKETS WILL BECOME WISER AFTER RECENT EVENTS

* ♦ ♦ ♦ »

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR PIERS JACOBS, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT HE BELIEVED THE BROKING COMMUNITY AND THE MARKETS WOULD COME OUT OF RECENT EVENTS STRONGER AND WISER.

SPEAKING AT THE EIGHTH ANNIVERSARY DINNER PARTY OF THE HONG KONG STOCKBROKERS ASSOCIATION, MR JACOBS SAID THE EVENTS LAST MONTH IN THE STOCK MARKETS IN ALL THE MAJOR FINANCIAL CENTRES THROUGHOUT THE WORLD HAD BEEN TRAUMATIC AND HONG KONG HAD NOT BEEN SPARED.

"WE HAVE HAD TO ADOPT VARIOUS SUPPORT MEASURES, AND THIS HAS BEEN DONE JOINTLY BY THE PRIVATE SECTOR AND THE GOVERNMENT," MR JACOBS SAID, ADDING THAT HE BELIEVED THAT THE RESCUE OPERATION HAD BEEN SUCCESSFUL.

MR JACOBS HOPED THAT BROKERS, SMALL AND BIG, FOREIGN AND LOCAL, WOULD BE ABLE TO WORK TOGETHER TOWARDS A BETTER MARKET FOR THEIR OWN BENEFITS AND FOR THE OVERALL GOOD OF HONG KONG.

HE SAID HONG KONG WAS A COSMOPOLITAN CITY, PARTICULARLY IN TERMS OF THE FINANCIAL COMMUNITY, AND ITS SUCCESS DEPENDED ON AN ABILITY TO WORK TOGETHER.

/"WE CANNOT

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 5 -

"WE CANNOT AFFORD TO DAMAGE IT BY INTERNAL SQUABBLES. THE PARTNERSHIP IS TOO IMPORTANT AND FUNDAMENTAL TO OUR STABILITY AND PROSPERITY," HE SAID.

"AT TIMES, HOWEVER, AND PARTICULARLY AT MOMENTS OF CRISIS, THERE CAN BE SIGNS OF TENSION WITHIN THE BROKING COMMUNITY."

"THIS IS UNFORTUNATE BECAUSE BROKERS, BY THE NATURE OF THEIR BUSINESS, MUST TRUST EACH OTHER. ANY DIVISION WITHIN THE BROKING COMMUNITY WILL BE DANGEROUS AND WILL DO NO GOOD TO THE BROKERS THEMSELVES OR TO THE MARKETS," HE SAID.

MR JACOBS THEREFORE HOPED THAT HARMONY, TRUST AND CO-OPERATION WOULD PREVAIL.

HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT WHEN THE FOUR EXCHANGES CAME TOGETHER IN 1986, THE MARKET WAS THEN VERY MUCH A MARKET FOR INDIVIDUAL BROKERS. BUT NOW HONG KONG HAD A MARKETPLACE IN WHICH BOTH INDIVIDUAL BROKERS AND CORPORATE BROKERS COULD TRADE.

--------0 ----------

GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO LONG-TERM ROAD PROJECTS ♦ * t * ♦

ROAD PROJECTS LIKE THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR INDICATED CLEARLY THE GOVERNMENT’S CONTINUING DETERMINATION TO INVEST SUFFICIENT MONEY AND RESOURCES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE, NOT JUST FOR THE NEXT FEW YEARS, BUT TO THE END OF THE CENTURY AND BEYOND, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE CHEUNG SHA WAN SECTION OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR, MR LEUNG SAID THAT THIS SECTION WAS THE THIRD STAGE OF THE CORRIDOR TO BE COMPLETED, AND EXTENDED THE MAIN TRUNK ROUTE FROM SHAM SHUI PO TO WESTERN CHEUNG SHA WAN.

IT WAS AN IMPORTANT FURTHER STEP TOWARDS PROVIDING A HIGH CAPACITY THROUGH ROAD LINKING LAI CHI KOK TO THE CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL AND TS1M SHA TSUI.

ON FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF THIS ROUTE, MR LEUNG SAID WORK HAD ALREADY STARTED ON EXTENDING THE GASCOIGNE ROAD FLYOVER OVER WYLIE ROAD TO RELIEVE THE TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT THAT JUNCTION, AND TO PROVIDE A MORE DIRECT LINK TO THE CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL AND EAST KOWLOON WAY.

/AT THE

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

AT THE NORTHERN END OF THE CORRIDOR, THE KWAI CHUNG ROAD BETWEEN LAI CHI KOK BRIDGE AND THE TSUEN WAN BYPASS WOULD BE RE-CONSTRUCTED AND WIDENED FROM FOUR-LANE TO FIVE-LANE CARRIAGEWAYS. WORK SHOULD START NEXT YEAR AND BE COMPLETED IN MID-1991.

FURTHER NORTH, ACCESS TO TSING YI WOULD BE GREATLY IMPROVED WITH THE OPENING OF THE TSING YI NORTH BRIDGE NEXT MONTH.

IN THE LONGER TERM, LARGE-SCALE TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENTS WERE LIKELY TO BE REQUIRED. THIS WOULD INVOLVE THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION AND THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY CONNECTING OTHER FUTURE LARGE PROJECTS SUCH AS THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING AND ROUTE X.

ALSO SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY, THE DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS, MR HAROLD BEATON, SAID THAT THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR WAS A HIGH CAPACITY ELEVATED TRAFFIC ROUTE STRETCHING FROM GASCOIGNE ROAD TO LAI CHI KOK ROAD IN THE VICINITY OF THE APPROACHES TO THE LAI CHI KOK BRIDGE.

SINCE THE OPENING OF THE SECOND STAGE OF THE CORRIDOR IN LATE 1982, FROM CHERRY STREET TO YEN CHOW STREET BETWEEN THE TAI KOK TSUI AND SHAM SHUI PO FERRY PIERS, THE COMMUNITIES IN TAI KOK TSUI AND SHAM SHUI PO HAD RECEIVED SUBSTANTIAL RELIEF FROM TRAFFIC CONGESTION.

THE CHEUNG SHA WAN SECTION WHICH RAN ABOVE THE CHEUNG SHA WAN RECLAMATION, TOGETHER WITH THE TUNG CHAU STREET/TONG MEI ROAD RAMP, FORMED THE THIRD STAGE OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR.

BOTH NORTHBOUND AND SOUTHBOUND TRAFFIC USING THE CORRIDOR WOULD FIND SUBSTANTIAL REDUCTIONS IN TRAVELLING TIME BETWEEN SOUTHERN KOWLOON AND THE WESTERN SIDE OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.

THIS IN TURN WOULD BRING RELIEF TO THE CONGESTION NOW EXPERIENCED ON THE ROADS AT GROUND LEVEL IN THE LAI CHI KOK AND SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICTS, MR BEATON SAID.

AFTER DELIVERING HIS SPEECH AND UNVEILING A PLAQUE, MR LEUNG, ACCOMPANIED BY MR BEATON, RODE IN A CAR WHICH DROVETHROUGH A CEREMONIAL RIBBON TO DECLARE THE ROAD OPEN.

THE 1.25 KILOMETRE-LONG ROAD TOOK ABOUT TWO-AND-A-HALF YEARS TO COMPLETE AT A COST OF ABOUT $160 MILLION.

IT WILL BE OPEN TO TRAFFIC FROM 10 AM TOMORROW (SATURDAY).

- - <r - O---------------------------

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 7 -

SALE OF FOUR LOTS FETCHES $806.5 MILLION *****

AN INDUSTRIAL SITE AT KOWLOON BAY RECLAMATION WAS SOLD FOR $470 MILLION AT AN AUCTION HELD AT THE CITY HALL TODAY (FRIDAY).

BIDDING FOR THE 22,280-SQUARE-METRE SITE STARTED AT $200 MILLION. GRAINBOW LTD WAS THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER.

UNDER THE BUILDING COVENANT, THE DEVELOPER HAS TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 70,000 SQUARE METRES BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 1992 FOR INDUSTRIAL/GODOWN OR TRADE MART PURPOSES.

TWO OTHER INDUSTRIAL SITES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WERE ALSO SOLD AT THE AUCTION.

ONE IS LOCATED AT YUEN CHAU KOK IN SHA TIN AND COVERS AN AREA OF ABOUT 4,582 SQUARE METRES. IT IS FOR INDUSTRIAL AND/OR GODOWN DEVELOPMENT BUT NOT FOR OFFENSIVE TRADES.

BIDDING STARTED AT $30 MILLION AND THE SITE WAS BOUGHT BY BEECHCROFT INVESTMENT LTD FOR $53 MILLION.

THE PURCHASER IS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE AT LEAST 13,746 SQUARE METRES OF GROSS FLOOR AREA BY NOVEMBER 30, 1991.

THE OTHER ONE IS AT ON LOK TSUEN IN FANLING WITH AN AREA OF ABOUT 2,563 SQUARE METRES FOR INDUSTRIAL AND/OR GODOWN PURPOSES, BUT ALSO NOT FOR OFFENSIVE TRADES.

BIDDING OPENED AT $13 MILLION AND THE SITE WAS SOLD TO BIGINN1 LTD FOR $18.5 MILLION.

THE DEVELOPER HAS TO COMPLETE AT LEAST 7,689 SQUARE METRES OF GROSS FLOOR AREA BY DECEMBER 31, 1991.

IN ADDITION, A PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL SITE WAS SOLD AT THE AUCTION.

COVERING AN AREA OF ABOUT 19,460 SQUARE METRES, THE SITE IS LOCATED AT THE TOWN CENTRE OF TUEN MUN, NEAR THE PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION SCHEME, CHI LOK FA YUEN.

BIDDING FOR THE SITE STARTED AT $160 MILLION AND THE SITE WAS PURCHASED BY DYNAMIA CO. LTD FOR $265 MILLION.

THE BUYER IS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 38,530 SQUARE METRES BY DECEMBER 31, 1991.

THE AUCTION WAS CONDUCTED BY GOVERNMENT LAND AGENT, MR C.M. MO, OF THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT.

- - 0 - -

/8........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27,

1987

- 8 -

PROVISIONAL HONG KONG COUNCIL FOR ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION

* * * *

THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PROVISIONAL HONG KONG COUNCIL FOR ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARING THE FORMAL ESTABLISHMENT OF THE HONG KONG COUNCIL FOR ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION (HKCAA).

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE ON ACADEMIC AWARDS, DR DAVID BETHEL, HAS BEEN APPOINTED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PROVISIONAL COUNCIL.

DR BETHEL IS THE FORMER DIRECTOR OF LEICESTER POLYTECHNIC IN THE UK AND IS CURRENTLY A MEMBER OF THE UNIVERSITY AND POLYTECHNIC GRANTS COMMITTEE. HE HEADED THE PLANNING COMMITTEE SET UP LAST YEAR TO ADVISE THE GOVERNMENT ON HOW FULL LOCAL VALIDATION OF DEGREES AWARDED BY NON-UNIVERSITY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN HONG KONG MIGHT BEST BE ARRANGED AND MANAGED.

A LOCAL ENGINEER AND A MEMBER OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE, DR RAYMOND HO, HAS BEEN APPOINTED VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE PROVISIONAL COUNCIL. DR HO IS PRESIDENT OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS AND A MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY POLYTECHNIC OF HONG KONG.

THE OTHER LOCAL LAY MEMBERS OF THE PROVISIONAL COUNCIL ARE: MR GRAHAM CHENG CHENG-HSUN, AN INDUSTRIALIST AND CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY; DR JAMES WONG SAI-WING, AN INDUSTRIALIST AND A MEMBER OF THE TEXTILES ADVISORY BOARD; MRS ALICE PIERA LAM LEE KIU-YUE, A BANKER AND A MEMBER OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE FOR THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY; AND MR STEPHEN LAU, A BANKER AND THE FORMER MANAGER OF THE GOVERNMENT DATA PROCESSING AGENCY.

THREE OTHER OVERSEAS ACADEMICS APPOINTED TO THE PROVISIONAL COUNCIL ARE: PROFESSOR J.E. SPENCE, PROFESSOR AND HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT OF POLITICS, UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER; MR F.C. JAMES, DEAN OF FACULTY OF APPLIED SCIENCE, ROYAL MELBOURNE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY; AND DR MALCOLM FRAZER, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE UNITED KINGDOM COUNCIL FOR NATIONAL ACADEMIC AWARDS.

THE REMAINING MEMBERS ARE FIVE LOCAL ACADEMICS FROM THE TWO UNIVERSITIES, THE TWO POLYTECHNICS AND THE HONG KONG BAPTIST COLLEGE.

THEY ARE PROFESSOR D.M.B. EVANS, DEAN OF THE FACULTY OF LAW, UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG; PROFESSOR S.W. TAM, DEAN OF THE GRADUATE SCHOOL AND PROFESSOR OF CHEMISTRY, CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG; DR S.A. REID, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR (ACADEMIC) OF THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC; DR CYRIL CANNON, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR (ACADEMIC PLANNING) OF THE CITY POLYTECHNIC OF HONG KONG; AND DR H.S. HOUSTON, ACADEMIC VICE-PRESIDENT, THE HONG KONG BAPTIST COLLEGE.

/THE PROVISIONAL

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 198?

- 9 -

THE PROVISIONAL HONG KONG COUNCIL FOR ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION WILL WORK IN CLOSE CO-OPERATION WITH THE UNITED KINGDOM COUNCIL FOR NATIONAL ACADEMIC AWARDS (CNAA) AND THE UNIVERSITY AND POLYTECHNIC GRANTS COMMITTEE IN EFFECTING TRANSITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR IMPLEMENTING A HONG KONG SYSTEM OF VALIDATION, WITHOUT INTERRUPTING THE EXISTING PLANS FOR VALIDATING DEGREE COURSES OF THE NON-UNIVERSITY INSTITUTIONS IN THE IMMEDIATE FUTURE.

THE PROVISIONAL COUNCIL WILL HOLD ITS FIRST MEETING IN HONG KONG IN JANUARY NEXT YEAR, TO DRAW UP PLANS FOR ITS PROGRAMME OF WORK IN THE FUTURE.

-------0---------

STI ATTENDS GATT MEETING IN GENEVA * * « *

THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, WILL LEAVE HONG KONG TODAY (FRIDAY) TO ATTEND THE 43RD SESSION MEETING OF MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL AGREEMENT ON TARIFFS AND TRADE (GATT) IN GENEVA.

THE SESSION WILL ALSO MARK THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GATT, WHICH WAS FORMED IN 1948 AS THE ONLY MULTILATERAL INSTRUMENT WITH AGREED RULES FOR INTERNATIONAL TRADE.

DURING THE FOUR-DAY MEETING FROM DECEMBER 1 TO 4, TRADE MINISTERS OF GATT MEMBERS WILL REVIEW THE WORK OF THE GATT OVER THE PAST YEAR AND THE PROGRESS OF THE URUGUAY ROUND OF MULTILATERAL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS.

HONG KONG HAS BEEN PARTICIPATING ACTIVELY IN THE URUGUAY ROUND LAUNCHED BY THE MEMBERS OF THE GATT IN SEPTEMBER LAST YEAR.

MR MACLEOD WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON DECEMBER 5.

-----0----------

/1O........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

10 -

SINO-BRITISH LAND COMMISSION MEETING * * *

THE SINO-BRITISH LAND COMMISSION HELD THEIR FOURTEENTH MEETING ON NOVEMBER 27, 1987 TO REVIEW THEIR WORK, AND EXPRESSED SATISFACTION WITH THE PROGRESS MADE.

THE LAND COMMISSION REVIEWED THE LEASE DOCUMENTATION AND FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS AND WERE SATISFIED THAT THEY WERE WORKING WELL. LAND PREMIUM AMOUNTING TO ABOUT $2,600 MILLION HAD BEEN SHARED BETWEEN THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AND THE FUTURE SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION GOVERNMENT FROM APRIL 1 TO SEPTEMBER 30 THIS YEAR.

PROGRESS ON THE CURRENT LAND DISPOSAL PROGRAMME WAS ALSO CONSIDERED. THE LAND COMMISSION AGREED THAT THE 1987/88 LAND DISPOSAL PROGRAMME SHOULD BE INCREASED BY 13.1 HECTARES. THIS WILL ENABLE THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT TO GIVE FURTHER CONSIDERATION TO THE PROPOSAL OF RESITING THE SHELL COMPANY’S OIL DEPOTS AND OTHER RELATED REDEVELOPMENTS. MOST OF THE ADDITIONAL LAND WOULD BE FORMED BY RECLAMATION OFF TSING YI AND AP LEI CHAU.

-----0----------

SCHOOL HEADS TO ATTEND SEMINAR ON PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG ABUSE * * » *

A SEMINAR ON PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG ABUSE, ORGANISED BY THE NARCOTICS DIVISION OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, WILL BE HELD AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 30).

A SET OF COLOUR SLIDES ON PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG ABUSE, PRODUCED BY THE NARCOTICS DIVISION, WILL BE INTRODUCED AND ULTIMATELY COPIES WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO ALL SECONDARY SCHOOLS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.

MORE THAN 350 SCHOOL PRINCIPALS, STUDENT COUNSELLORS AND TEACHERS WILL ATTEND THE SEMINAR, DURING WHICH THE NEWLY-PRODUCED DOCUMENTARY FILM ON HONG KONG’S DRUG POLICY, "THE WHITE POWDER WAR", WILL ALSO BE SHOWN.

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS, DR GERALD CHOA, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 2.30 PM.

THERE WILL BE AN OPEN FORUM ON THE PROBLEM OF PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG ABUSE AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE, ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PARENT-TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION IN THE PREVENTION OF DRUG ABUSE, AND ON THE INCLUSION OF DRUG ABUSE AS A COMPULSORY SUBJECT IN THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM.

/Panelists at

FRIDAY, N0VQ4BER 27, 1987

PANELISTS AT THE SEMINAR WILL INCLUDE THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MRS AGNES ALLCOCK; HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHIATRY, CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, PROFESSOR C.N. CHEN; SENIOR INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, MISS W.N. BAU; CHIEF STAFF INSPECTOR OF THE POLICE NARCOTICS BUREAU, MR L.C. TANG; AND CHAIRMEN AND REPRESENTATIVES OF DISTRICT SCHOOLS LIAISON COMMITTEES.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT WHICH WILL BEGIN IN THE CITY HALL THEATRE, CENTRAL, AT 2.30 PM ON MONDAY.

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APPOINTMENTS TO LIVESTOCK WASTE DISPOSAL CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE ANNOUNCED

* t * » ♦

THE CHAIRMAN OF HEUNG YEE KUK, DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS AND LIVESTOCK FARMERS HAVE BEEN APPOINTED TO THE 26-MEMBER LIVESTOCK WASTE DISPOSAL CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE.

ANNOUNCING THE APPOINTMENTS TODAY (FRIDAY), DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY OF THE NEW TERRITORIES (SPECIAL DUTIES) AND CHAIRMAN OF THE LIVESTOCK WASTE DISPOSAL CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE, MR LEO KWAN, SAID THE 21 UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS INCLUDED HEUNG YEE KUK CHAIRMAN, MR LAU WONG-FAT, WHO IS ALSO A LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, AND MEMBERS OF ASSOCIATIONS AND CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES OF THE LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY.

THE OFFICIAL MEMBERS COMPRISED REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT AND HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH.

MR KWAN ADDED THAT IN FUTURE, REPRESENTATIVES FROM OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS MIGHT BE INVITED TO ATTEND MEETINGS OF THE COMMITTEE IF THEIR PRESENCE WAS REQUIRED.

THE CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE WILL HOLD ITS FIRST MEETING AT THE CNTA HEADQUATERS ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3.

/COMMENTING ON

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

COMMENTING ON THE COMPOSITION OF THE CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE, MR KWAN NOTED THAT THE LIST WAS DRAWN UP AFTER CONSULTATIONS WITH LIVESTOCK FARMING ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS. TO ENSURE THAT THE INTERESTS OF CONCERNED PARTIES WERE PROPERLY REPRESENTED THE GEOGRAPHICAL ELEMENT HAD ALSO BEEN TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.

MR KWAN SAID THAT THE COMMITTEE WOULD PROVIDE A FORMAL COMMUNICATION CHANNEL BETWEEN THE LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY AND THE GOVERNMENT. ACTIONS TAKEN AND PROPOSALS PUT FORWARD BY THE GOVERNMENT REGARDING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL SCHEME COULD BE FULLY UNDERSTOOD BY THE LIVESTOCK FARMERS AFFECTED, AND ANY VIEWS AND SUGGESTIONS RELATING TO SUCH ACTIONS AND PROPOSALS BY THE LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY COULD BE FULLY REFLECTED TO THE GOVERNMENT.

’’THE CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR RECOMMENDING MEASURES WHICH WILL HELP TO ENSURE THE SMOOTH IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL SCHEME AND FOR INITIATING EDUCATIONAL AND PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES WHICH WILL INCREASE THE INDUSTRY’S UNDERSTANDING AND ACCEPTANCE OF IT," MR KWAN CONTINUED.

THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL MEMBERS LIST OF THE LIVESTOCK WASTE DISPOSAL CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE:

DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY, NEW TERRITORIES (SPECIAL DUTIES) -CHAIRMAN CHAIRMAN OF HEUNG YEE KUK OR REPRESENTATIVE MR AU YIU MR CHAN HON-LAM MR CHAN KWOK-WAI MR CHAN YU-YUK MR CHEUNG HOK-MING MR CHIU YU-PAN MS FUNG CHOI-YUK MR FOK WUI-KO MR LAU YEUK-SAT MR LEE HOI-YUK MR LEUNG CHIK MR LEUNG TSZ-WA

/MR LO SHUK-CHINQ........

FRIDAY, NOVIMBER 27, 198?

- U -

MR LO SHUK-CHING

MR NG PO-WING

MR SO WING-HOI

MR TSE FAI

MR WONG CHUN-KAU

MR WONG SUI-FAN

MR YAU MING-TAK

MR YUEN CHIT-CHI

AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT REPRESENTATIVE

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT REPRESENTATIVE

HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH REPRESENTATIVE

ASSISTANT SECRETARY, NEW TERRITORIES (SPECIAL DUTIES)

SECRETARY

-----0------

VIGOROUS DRIVE AGAINST COUNTRYSIDE LITTERBUGS TO BEGIN

*****

A VIGOROUS DRIVE AGAINST LITTERING WILL BE LAUNCHED BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT IN HONG KONG’S 21 COUNTRY PARKS TOMORROW (SATURDAY).

THE DRIVE, WHICH WILL INITIALLY RUN THROUGH THE CURRENT PICNIC SEASON, IS ONE OF STERN PROSECUTION ACTION TO PENALISE PARK VISITORS WHO CHOOSE TO IGNORE THE ANTI-LITTER LAW.

FOR THE FIRST TIME, PLAIN-CLOTHES ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS FROM THE DEPARTMENT’S CONSERVATION AND COUNTRY PARKS BRANCH WILL BE MOBILISED TO BACK UP A TASK FORCE OF 90 UNIFORMED PARK WARDENS IN DETECTING LITTER OFFENCES AND IN SERVING SUMMONSES ON-THE-SPOT.

PARTICULAR ATTENTION WILL BE PAID TO PEOPLE MAKING EVENING VISITS TO MAJOR PICNIC AND BARBECUE SITES, WHICH ARE NOW BECOMING VERY POPULAR AMONG THOSE IN THE YOUNGER AGE GROUPS.

/VIOLATION OF

FRIDAYt NOVEMBER 27, 198?

VIOLATION OF THE COUNTRY PARKS REGULATIONS WILL RENDER A LITTER OFFENDER LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $2,000 AND IMPRISONMENT FOR THREE MONTHS.

ANNOUNCING THIS TODAY (FRIDAY), THE DEPARTMENT'S SENIOR COUNTRY PARKS OFFICER, MR S. P. LAU, SAID THE NEW MEASURE IS PART OF AN ACTION PLAN DRAWN UP TO TACKLE THE LITTER PROBLEM WHICH HAS GIVEN RISE TO CONCERN.

LAST YEAR, SOME 4,000 TONNES OF LITTER WERE COLLECTED INSIDE COUNTRY PARKS, A CONSIDERABLE QUANTITY OF WHICH WAS DISCARDED INDISCRIMINATELY ON THE GROUND BY IRRESPONSIBLE PARK VISITORS.

’’DESPITE OUR REPEATED APPEALS FOR PROPER USE OF THE 5,000 LITTER BINS AND STOCKADES PROVIDED IN THE PARKS AND OUR EFFORTS TO CLEAN THEM UP, THE PROBLEM IS GETTING WORSE THIS YEAR WITH A GROWING AMOUNT OF LITTER BEING LEFT AT PICNIC AND BARBECUE SITES.

’’THIS CLEALY REFLECTS A GROWING PUBLIC APATHY TOWARDS THE COUNTRYSIDE ENVIRONMENT AND SOME PEOPLE'S DISRESPECT FOR THE LAW,” HE SAID.

MR LAU SAID THAT AS GOVERNMENT ADVICE AND WARNINGS HAVE APPARENTLY FALLEN ON DEAF EARS, IT IS TIME FOR FIRM ACTION TO BE TAKEN TO BRING LITTER OFFENDERS BEFORE THE COURT.

APART FROM STRICTER ENFORCEMENT ACTION, HE SAID, THE DEPARTMENT HAS PUT IN HAND OTHER SPECIAL OPERATIONS IN ALL COUNTRY PARKS TO ALLEVIATE THE LITTER PROBLEM.

THESE INCLUDE THE REDEPLOYMENT OF MORE STAFF TO MOUNT LITTER RAIDS; EMPLOYMENT OF MORE CASUAL WORKERS IN COLLECTING LITTER; PROVISION OF MORE LITTER BINS ESPECIALLY ALONG HIKING ROUTES; ERECTION OF WARNING SIGNS AT POPULAR PARK AREAS AND MOBILE BROADCASTS OF ANTI-LITTER MESSAGE IN MAJOR COUNTRY PARKS DURING WEEKENDS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.

IN ADDITION, ARRANGEMENTS HAVE ALSO BEEN MADE FOR CIVIL AID SERVICES MEMBERS TO ASSIST PARK WARDENS IN DISTRIBUTING LITTER BAGS TO PARK VISITORS AND GIVING THEM ON-THE-SPOT ADVICE ON THE PROPER DISPOSAL OF LITTER IN PARK AREAS.

O--------

/15

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 15 -

FINES PROPOSED FOR FALSE ELECTIONEERING CLAIMS *****

THE GOVERNMENT IS PROPOSING LEGISLATIVE AMENDMENTS TO MAKE IT AN OFFENCE FOR A CANDIDATE IN AN ELECTION TO MAKE FALSE CLAIMS THAT HE HAS THE SUPPORT OF CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS OR ORGANISATIONS.

UNDER THE CORRUPT AND ILLEGAL PRACTICES (AMENDMENT) BILL 1987 WHICH WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY), A CANDIDATE WHO MAKES SUCH A FALSE CLAIM IS LIABLE TO A FINE OF $500 ON SUMMARY CONVICTION OR A FINE OF $2,000 ON CONVICTION ON INDICTMENT.

PERSONS CONVICTED UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE BILL WILL BE DISQUALIFIED FROM BEING REGISTERED AS AN ELECTOR FOR SEVEN YEARS FROM THE DATE OF CONVICTION AND FROM CANDIDATURE FOR 10 YEARS.

THE BILL ALSO SEEKS TO PERMIT THE DEPUTY CHIEF SECRETARY TO SPECIFY THE FORM OF ELECTION EXPENSE RETURN AND ACCOMPANYING DECLARATION TO BE LODGED BY CANDIDATES FOLLOWING AN ELECTION.

"THE EXISTING FORM IS CONSIDERED NOT DETAILED ENOUGH; FOR INSTANCE, IT DOES NOT INCLUDE THE PROVISION OF SERVICES IN KIND OR REQUIRE GOODS AND SERVICES PROVIDED WITHOUT CHARGE TO CANDIDATES TO BE IDENTIFIED," A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.

THE GOVERNMENT HAS ALSO INTRODUCED SEVERAL CHANGES TO ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENTS AS PROVIDED UNDER THE ELECTORAL PROVISIONS (PROCEDURE) (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS 1987.

UNDER THE AMENDMENT REGULATIONS, DEPOSITS FOR DISTRICT BOARD AND MUNICIPAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS HAVE BEEN INCREASED FROM $1,000 TO $2,000 AND FROM $1,000 TO $3,000 RESPECTIVELY.

THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THE DEPOSIT WAS STILL RELATIVELY MODEST, AND WOULD BE REVIEWED PERIODICALLY TO MAINTAIN THE DETERRENT AGAINST FRIVOLOUS CANDIDATES.

OTHER AREA OF CHANGE INCLUDE:

A) . THE REGISTRATION OFFICER IS EMPOWERED TO SPECIFY VARIATIONS TO POLLING HOURS IN SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES;

B) . THE IDENTITY CARD NUMBERS OF ELECTORS WILL BE OMITTED FROM THE CANDIDATES’ COPIES OF THE FINAL REGISTER AND FROM THE ADDRESS LABELS PRODUCED FOR MAILING PURPOSES;

C) . THE ADDRESSES OF CANDIDATES WILL BE OMITTED FROM THE BALLOT PAPERS UNLESS THE REGISTRATION OFFICER OTHERWISE REQUIRES.

D) . THE AUTHORITY TO ADMIT PUBLIC OFFICERS INTO POLLING STATIONS IS TRANSFERRED FROM THE DIRECTOR, COUNCILS AND ADMINISTRATION BRANCH (A POST WHICH NO LONGER EXISTS) TO THE DEPUTY CHIEF SECRETARY.

D) . A TIDIER METHOD OF COUNTING VOTES IS INTRODUCED IN CONSTITUENCIES WHERE THERE IS MORE THAN ONE CANDIDATE.

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/16........

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

BILLS GIVE PROFESSIONAL COUNCILS RIGHT TO ELECT OWN CHAIRMEN

* * * *

THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSES TO AMEND EXISTING LEGISLATION TO PROVIDE FOR NEW ARRANGEMENTS FOR SELECTING THE CHAIRMEN OF THE MEDICAL COUNCIL OF HONG KONG, THE DENTAL COUNCIL OF HONG KONG, THE NURSING BOARD OF HONG KONG AND THE MIDWIVES BOARD OF HONG KONG.

THE NEW ARRANGEMENTS WOULD ALSO PROVIDE FOR THE INCLUSION OF ONE LAY MEMBER ON EACH OF THE COUNCILS AND BOARDS.

DETAILS OF THE PROPOSALS ARE CONTAINED IN THE MEDICAL REGISTRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1987, THE DENTISTS REGISTRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO.2) BILL 1987, THE NURSES REGISTRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1987 AND THE MIDWIVES REGISTRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1987 WHICH WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).

EXPLAINING THE PURPOSE OF THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THAT UNDER THE EXISTING LEGISLATION, THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES IS BOTH A MEMBER AND THE CHAIRMAN OF EACH OF THE FOUR COUNCILS AND BOARDS WHICH ARE STATUTORY BODIES CHARGED WITH THE REGISTRATION AND DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS OF THEIR RESPECTIVE PROFESSIONS AS DOCTORS, DENTISTS, NURSES AND MIDWIVES.

"IT IS CONSIDERED THAT THE REMOVAL OF THE DUAL ROLE OF THE DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES AS THE GOVERNMENT’S PRINCIPAL MEDICAL OFFICER AND EX-OFFICIO CHAIRMAN OF THESE COUNCILS AND BOARDS WOULD ENHANCE THE SELF-REGULATING AND INDEPENDENT NATURE OF THESE PROFESSIONAL BODIES.

"THE BILLS THEREFORE SEEK TO PROVIDE FOR THE DIRECTOR TO RELINQUISH HIS POSITION AS CHAIRMAN OF THESE COUNCILS AND BOARDS AND FOR THE FUTURE CHAIRMEN TO BE ELECTED BY THE MEMBERS FROM AMONG THEMSELVES,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

THE BILLS WILL BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON DECEMBER 9.

COMMENTS ON THE BILLS MAY BE SENT TO THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE AT CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES OR THE OMELCO OFFICE AT 8 JACKSON ROAD.

- - 0 - -

/17

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 17 -

CHANGE IN LOTTERIES FUND PROCEDURE PROPOSED

*****

THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSES TO AMEND THE BETTING DUTY ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE A HIGHER AND MORE STABLE FUNDING FOR THE WELFARE SECTOR THROUGH THE LOTTERIES FUND.

DETAILS OF THE PROPOSAL ARE CONTAINED IN THE BETTING DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1987 WHICH WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).

A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT UNDER THE ORDINANCE, THE HONG KONG LOTTERIES BOARD WAS PERMITTED TO USE THE FACILITIES OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB FOR RUNNING PERMITTED LOTTERIES AND TO REIMBURSE THE CLUB FOR THE OPERATING COSTS. AT PRESENT, ONLY THE MARK SIX LOTTERY IS LICENSED.

THE CURRENT PRACTICE IS FOR THE CLUB TO DEDUCT AN INITIAL 9.5 PER CENT OF THE PROCEEDS AFTER EACH LOTTERY TO COVER OPERATING COSTS. THE BALANCE, WHICH IS 1.5 PER CENT OF THE PROCEEDS AFTER ACCOUNTING FOR PRIZES (59 PER CENT) AND BETTING DUTY (30 PER CENT), IS PAID INTO THE LOTTERIES FUND.

WHEN THE ACTUAL OPERATING COSTS ARE FINALISED, THE CLUB IS THEN REQUIRED TO PAY ANY SURPLUS INTO, OR TO RECOVER ANY DEFICIENCY FROM, THE FUND.

HOWEVER, THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THE ACTUAL OPERATING COSTS WERE NOT KNOWN UNTIL THE END OF THE CLUB’S FINANCIAL YEAR IN JUNE.

"UNDER THIS ARRANGEMENT, THE FUND CANNOT BE CERTAIN OF THE ACTUAL INCOME TO BE RECEIVED UNTIL AFTER THE CLOSE OF THE CLUB'S FINANCIAL YEAR. THIS HINDERS ACCURATE FORWARD PLANNING," HE SAID.

"THERE ARE ALSO INCREASING DIFFICULTIES IN SEPARATING LOTTERY OPERATING COSTS FROM THOSE RELATED TO HORSE RACE BETTING AS BOTH SHARE THE SAME COMPUTER SYSTEM," HE ADDED.

IN VIEW OF THIS, THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSES TO AMEND THE ORDINANCE TO FIX THE ALLOCATION TO THE CLUB AS OPERATING COSTS AT A RATE OF 7.5 PER CENT.

THE CORRESPONDING PERCENTAGE PAID INTO THE FUND WILL THEN BE 3.5 PER CENT, A HIGHER FIGURE COMPARED WITH THE ACTUAL PERCENTAGES FOR THE LAST TWO YEARS, WHICH WERE 2.42 PER CENT FOR 1984-85 AND 2.96 PER CENT FOR 1985-86.

"THIS WILL ALSO REDUCE THE DEGREE OF UNCERTAINTY AND THE ACCOUNTING DIFFICULTIES," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

HE ADDED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO PRACTICAL EFFECT ON THE LEVEL OF PRIZE MONEY UNDER THE PROPOSED ALLOCATION ARRANGEMENT.

/IN LINE

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 18 -

IN LINE WITH THE AMENDMENT TO THE PERCENTAGE ALLOCATION OF PRIZE MONEY, THE BILL PROVIDES THAT AMENDMENTS TO THE ’’COSTS” PERCENTAGE SHOULD REQUIRE A RESOLUTION BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.

THE BILL IS EXPECTED TO BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON DECEMBER 9.

COMMENTS ON THE BILL MAY BE SENT TO THE SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES OR OMELCO, 8 JACKSON ROAD, HONG KONG.

--------0----------

MORE SOCIAL CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY PLANNED *****

THE GOVERNMENT PLANS TO SET UP A TOTAL OF 25 MULTI-SERVICES CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE

MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).

"THE LONG-TERM PLAN IS TO HAVE ONE SUCH CENTRE IN EACH ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT AND AN EXTRA ONE FOR THE MORE DENSELY-POPULATED DISTRICTS - SHAM SHUI PO, WONG TAI SIN, KWUN TONG, KOWLOON CITY AND EASTERN," SHE SAID.

MRS WONG WAS OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE WILSON T. S. WANG MULTI-SERVICES CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY, OPERATED BY THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS, IN SHA KOK ESTATE, SHA TIN.

THERE ARE AT PRESENT 12 MULTI-SERVICES CENTRES WHERE, IN ADDITION TO SUCH RECREATIONAAL FACILITIES AS ARE PROVIDED IN SOCIAL CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY, THERE ARE ALSO COUNSELLING, HOME HELP, LAUNDRY, CANTEEN AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SERVICES. SOME EVEN HAVE A DAY CARE CENTRE ATTACHED.

"IT MEANS THAT THE ELDERLY CAN ENJOY A VARIETY OF SERVICES WITHIN ONE BUILDING," MRS WONG SAID.

SHE POINTED OUT THAT, ACCORDING TO THE 1986 BI-CENSUS, THERE WERE 76,000 OLD PEOPLE OVER 60 LIVING ALONE WHILE ANOTHER 520,000 WERE LIVING WITH THEIR SPOUSES OR FAMILIES.

SHE BELIEVED THAT MULTI-SERVICES CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY HAD A ROLE TO PLAY IN RESOLVING THE GENERATION GAP PROBLEM FOR THE LATTER GROUP OF ELDERLY.

/"THROUGH THEIR

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 19 -

“THROUGH THEIR CONTACT WITH THE ELDERLY AND THE ACTIVITIES THEY ORGANISE, THE CENTRES CAN HELP THE ELDERLY TO IMPROVE THEIR INTER-PERSONAL RELATIONS AND TO APPRECIATE THE DIFFERENT LIFE STYLE AND VALUE STANDARDS OF THE YOUNGER GENERATION,” SHE SAID.

“ON THE OTHER HAND, THE FAMILY MEMBERS, THROUGH THE SEMINARS ORGANISED BY THE CENTRES, CAN ACQUIRE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL STATES OF THEIR OLD FOLK AND THE CORRECT CONCEPT OF RESPECT FOR THE ELDERLY.

“FURTHERMORE, THE COUNSELLING SERVICE CAN HELP TO RESOLVE ANY MISUNDERSTANDING OR PROBLEM THAT MAY EXIST BETWEEN THE ELDERLY I AND THEIR CHILDREN,” MRS WONG SAID.

-----0------

TWO VIETNAMESE BOYS SUFFERING FROM CHOLERA *****

THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) CONFIRMED THAT TWO VIETNAMESE REFUGEE CHILDREN WERE SUFFERING FROM CHOLERA.

THE TWO BOYS - AGED TWO AND THREE - ARRIVED BY BOAT IN HONG KONG WITH ANOTHER 35 VIETNAMESE REFUGEES IN THE EVENING OF NOVEMBER 23.

ON ARRIVAL, THIS BATCH OF REFUGEES WAS TAKEN TO THE GREEN ISLAND RECEPTION CENTRE WHERE THEY WERE EXAMINED BY THE PORT HEALTH OFFICERS. THE TWO BOYS WERE FOUND TO HAVE SYMPTOMS OF DIARRHOEA AND VOMITING AND WERE IMMEDIATELY REFERRED TO THE PRINCESS MARGARET HOSPITAL FOR INVESTIGATION AND TREATMENT.

RESULTS OF THEIR STOOL TEST TODAY REVEALED THAT THEY WERE SUFFERING FROM CHOLERA EL TOR. DOCTORS DESCRIBED THE CONDITION OF THE PATIENTS AS SATISFACTORY.

HEALTH OFFICERS FROM THE DEPARTMENT HAVE VISITED THE PATIENTS’ PARENTS AND THE OTHER CONTACTS IN THE CHI MA WAN QUARANTINE HUT. THEY WERE ALL GIVEN MEDICAL EXAMINATION AND PREVENTIVE DRUGS AND WERE ALSO PUT UNDER MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE. BOTH THE QUARANTINE HUT AND THE RECEPTION CENTRE HAVE BEEN DISINFECTED.

SINCE THE TWO BOYS WERE NEW ARRIVALS FROM VIETNAM, THEY WERE CLASSIFIED AS IMPORTED CASES. SO FAR, A TOTAL OF FOUR CHOLERA CASES HAS BEEN CONFIRMED THIS YEAR AND THREE OF THEM WERE IMPORTED.

/THE LAST

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 20 -

THE LAST CASE WAS REPORTED IN EARLY NOVEMBER. THE PATIENT WAS A 19-YEAR-OLD NEPALESE TOURIST.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT REMINDED THE PUBLIC TO OBSERVE PERSONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE TO PREVENT CHOLERA.

-------0---------

NEW SECONDARY SCHOOL FOR YUEN LONG

*****

A NEW SECONDARY SCHOOL IS TO BE BUILT IN YUEN LONG TO MEET THE GROWING NEEDS OF THE NEW TOWN.

f COVERING A SITE AREA OF ABOUT 5,637 SQUARE METRES AT TOWN PARK SOUTH, THE SCHOOL WILL HAVE 24 CLASSROOMS, A NUMBER OF SPECIAL ROOMS AND AN ASSEMBLY HALL.

OTHER FACILITIES TO BE PROVIDED INCLUDE A BASKETBALL COURT, A COVERED PLAYGROUND, STAFF QUARTERS AND CAR PARKING SPACES.

WORK IS EXPECTED TO START IN FEBRUARY AND BE COMPLETED IN AUGUST, 1989.

TENDERS FOR THE PROJECT ARE BEING INVITED BY THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

------0-------

PUBLIC URGED TO BE ALERT TO HIDDEN HOME DANGERS

*****

WITH THE ONSET OF THE WINTER SEASON, THE PUBLIC WAS REMINDED TODAY (FRIDAY) TO PAY EXTRA ATTENTION TO FIRE RISKS AT HOME.

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE, MR GEORGE YUEN, SAID, "MOST HOME ACCIDENTS ARE CAUSED BY CARELESSNESS AND ARE IN FACT AVOIDABLE."

MR YUEN ALSO WARNED THAT SUB-STANDARD WATER HEATERS CAN BE DANGEROUS, AND IT IS NECESSARY TO OPEN WINDOWS OR DOORS WHEN TAKING A BATH OR SHOWER.

/"THESE ARE

FRIDAY, NOVfMBER 27, 1987

"THESE ARE BUT A FEW OF THE MANY HIDDEN DANGERS IN THE HOME," MR YUEN SAID. "OTHER COMMON DANGERS INCLUDE WATER, SCALDING LIQUIDS, SHARP OBJECTS, POISONOUS CHEMICALS, ELECTRIC APPLIANCES, AND GRILLED WINDOWS OR BALCONIES THAT DO NOT HAVE GRILLES."

PEOPLE WHO ARE INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT HOME SAFETY ARE WELCOME TO VISIT A HOME SAFETY EXIBITION ON SUNDAY AT THE SHIPPING ARCADE OF MEI LAM ESTATE IN SHA TIN.

"THE PURPOSE OF THE EXHIBITION IS TO POINT OUT VARIOUS PRECAUTIONS WHICH, IF TAKEN, COULD REDUCE HOME HAZARDS THAT ENDANGER FAMILY MEMBERS, PARTICULARLY CHILDREN," MR YUEN SAID.

HE STRESSED THAT ADULTS IN THE HOME HAVE AN IMPORTANT ROLE TO PLAY IN KEEPING THEIR HOMES SAFE.

"ACCIDENTS ARE VERY UNPLEASANT EXPERIENCES, AND SOME MISTAKES CAN COST LIVES," HE SAID.

- - 0 - -

PHOTO EXHIBITION TO SPREAD FIGHT CRIME MESSAGES *****

A FIVE-DAY PHOTO EXHIBITION, "A MEANINGFUL LIFE", WILL BEGIN AT THE CHEUNG CHAU YOUTH RECREATIONAL CENTRE, TUNG WAN, TOMORROW (SATURDAY).

THE EXHIBITION, CO-ORGANISED BY THE FIGHT CRIME CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE AND THE CHEUNG CHAU PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB, IS PART OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME CAMPAIGN.

WINNING ENTRIES IN THE FIGHT CRIME POSTER DESIGN COMPETITION HELD EARLIER IN THE DISTRICT WILL BE DISPLAYED AT THE EXHIBITION.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE SAID: "THE CURRENT FIGHT CRIME CAMPAIGN MAINLY FOCUSES ON THE PROMOTION OF THE NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH SCHEME, SAFETY AT HOME AND THE PREVENTION OF SHOP THEFTS.

"ANTI-TRIAD IS ANOTHER MAJOR ASPECT OF CRIME FIGHTING IN THE DISTRICT, BUT IT WILL BE PROMOTED BY A SEPARATE CAMPAIGN."

APART FROM THE EXHIBITION, A FIGHT CRIME CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD AT PAK TEI PLAYGROUND, CHEUNG CHAU, ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6. THIS WILL FEATURE A GRAND PARADE, PERFORMANCES BY JUNIOR POLICE CALL MEMBERS AND POLICE DOG UNIT, GAMESTALLS, A CRIME PREVENTIVE EQUIPMENT EXHIBITION AND A POLICE RECRUITING BOOTH.

- - 0 - -

/22

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 22

FIRE PREVENTION EXHIBITION TO BE HELD IN TAIKOO SHING

* * » * *

THE SECOND IN A SERIES OF EIGHT FIRE PREVENTION EXHIBITIONS, ORGANISED BY THE FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN PUBLICITY WORKING GROUP, WILL BE HELD IN THE CIT1PLAZA OF TAIKOO SHING ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 29).

THESE EXHIBITIONS WILL BE STAGED IN DENSELY POPULATED AREAS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY DURING THE WINTER MONTHS TO REMIND THE PUBLIC OF THE HIGH FIRE RISK IN THE DRY SEASON AND THE IMPORTANCE OF FIRE PREVENTION.

PANELS PROVIDED BY THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, ELABORATING ON THE THEME OF THIS YEAR’S FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN, ’’FIRE LAWS PROTECT”, WILL BE DISPLAYED.

THERE WILL ALSO BE DISPLAY PANELS PREPARED BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT TO ADVISE THE PUBLIC ON WAYS TO PREVENT COUNTRYSIDE FIRE.

THE EXHIBITION WILL START AT NOON AND LAST UNTIL 3 PM.

VISITORS TO THE EXHIBITION WILL RECEIVE INFORMATION BOOKLETS ON FIRE PREVENTION AND SOUVENIRS SPONSORED BY THE KWONG ON BANK.

-----0------

KWUN TONG RESIDENTS TO LEARN ABOUT DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION * * ♦ ♦ ♦

AN EXHIBITION TO INFORM KWUN TONG RESIDENTS ABOUT THE STRUCTURE OF DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION WILL BE HELD AT TELFORD GARDENS MAIN SQUARE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 29).

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION, MRS RITA FAN, AND THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR EDDY CHAN, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 2 PM.

THE EXHIBITION, PRESENTED BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD’S ORGANISING COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION, WILL LAUNCH THIS YEAR’S CIVIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN IN THE DISTRICT.

CHARTS, GRAPHICS AND CARTOONS WILL BE ON DISPLAY TO ILLUSTRATE THE ROLE AND FUNCTIONS OF A DISTRICT BOARD, AREA COMMITTEES AND MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES, AND THEIR RELATIONS WITH THE PUBLIC.

/IN ORDER

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

IN ORDER TO ADD COLOUR TO THE EXHIBITION, A STREET SHOW WILL BE STAGED. A FANCY VEHICLE WILL ALSO TOUR THE DISTRICT IN THE AFTERNOON, AND PAMPHLETS AND SOUVENIRS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO RESIDENTS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION EXHIBITION TO BEGIN AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY AT TELFORD GARDENS MAIN SQUARE.

- - 0 - -

CARNIVAL TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE

*****

SOME 2,000 YOUNG PEOPLE IN SHA TIN WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPRESS TO DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS THEIR OPINIONS ON VARIOUS SOCIAL ISSUES AT A CARNIVAL TO BE HELD ON THE PODIUM OF SHA TIN TOWN HALL ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 29) AFTERNOON.

ORGANISED BY THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD’S WORKING GROUP ON PROMOTION OF CIVIC-MINDEDNESS, THE CARNIVAL IS AIMED AT PROMOTING CIVIC EDUCATION AMONG YOUNGSTERS THROUGH GAMES AND VISITS.

THERE WILL BE 15 GAME STALLS USING TOPICS SUCH AS HONG KONG’S POLITICAL SYSTEM AND DISTRICT BOARD AS THEMES. A GUIDED TOUR OF SHA TIN TOWN HALL WILL BE ARRANGED TO ENABLE PARTICIPANTS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE RECREATIONAL AND CULTURAL FACILITIES IN THE DISTRICT.

OTHER PROGRAMMES WILL INCLUDE MARCHES, BRASS BANDS, MIME, FOLK SONGS AND CHILDREN’S CHOIR.

FREE ADMISSION TICKETS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED ON A FIRST-COME-F1RST-SERVED BASIS AT THE CARNIVAL VENUE.

ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER OF SHA TIN, MISS MARGARET FONG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR NG CHAN-LAM, AND BOARD MEMBERS, MR ANDREW WONG, MR CHEUNG CHI-YUEN, MR LAU KONG-WAH AND DR FANNY CHEUNG WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING OF THE EVENT AT 2 PM.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE YOUTH CARNIVAL ON PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION AT THE PODIUM OF SHA TIN TOWN HALL OPPOSITE TO KCR STATION ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 29). THE CARNIVAL WILL START AT 2 PM.

- - 0 -

/24

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

CELEBRITY FOOTBALL MATCH TO CLOSE SPORTS FESTIVAL

*****

THE THREE-WEEK CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT SPORTS FESTIVAL WILL COME TO A CLOSE WHEN A CELEBRITY SOCCER MATCH IS HELD AT THE KING GEORGE V MEMORIAL PARK IN SAI YING PUN ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 29).

SOUTH CHINA VETERANS WILL PLAY TVB ARTISTES IN THE MATCH WHICH WILL START AT 11.40 AM.

A CLOSING CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT ABOUT 12.30 PM AFTER THE MATCH ENDS. OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR LIU LIT-FOR; CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORT ASSOCIATION (RSA), MR LEUNG SIK-WAH; AND ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MISS ELIZABETH TSE.

DURING THE SPORTS FESTIVAL, MORE THAN 10,000 RESIDENTS HAVE TAKEN PART IN A VARIETY OF RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DISTRICT OFFICE SAID.

THESE ACTIVITIES HAVE INCLUDED ORIENTEERING, ATHLETICS, BASKETBALL AND SOCCER COMPETITIONS, AN EXPEDITION FOR ELDERLY PEOPLE. "DANCING AT SEA" CRUISE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE, A WALKATHON ROUND THE PEAK, AND A RECREATION CAMP FOR AREA COMMITTEES.

THE FESTIVAL WAS ORGANISED BY CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, THE URBAN COUNCIL AND CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT RSA, WITH MORE THAN $110,000 IN SPONSORSHIP COMING FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD AND THE WESTERN DISTRICT JUNIOR POLICE CALL ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER BOTH THE CELEBRITY SOCCER MATCH AND THE CLOSING OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT SPORTS FESTIVAL ON SUNDAY,AT THE KING GEORGE V MEMORIAL PARK IN SAI YING PUN. THE SOCCER MATCH WILL START AT 11.40 AM AND THE CLOSING CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT ABOUT 12.30 PM.

------0--------

NORTH ORGANISATIONS PRAISED FOR ART PROMOTION

♦ * * » ♦

ORGANISATIONS THAT HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN PROMOTING ART AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES AT DISTRICT LEVEL WERE PRAISED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICER, MR MATTHEW CHEUNG.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE ROCKERY GARDEN AT KAM TSIN VILLAGE IN SHEUNG SHUI, MR CHEUNG SAID THE DISTRICT’S ARTS ADVANCEMENT ASSOCIATION WAS AMONG ONE OF THE ORGANISATIONS THAT WERE ACTIVE IN FOSTERING RESIDENTS’ INTEREST IN VARIOUS FORMS OF ART.

/SINCE ITS

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 198?

- 25 -

SINCE ITS ESTABLISHMENT IN 1980, THE ASSOCIATION HAD PLAYED A VITAL ROLE IN ORGANISING CULTURAL ACTIVITIES IN NORTH DISTRICT. IT NOW MANAGED A CHILDREN’S CHOIR, CHINESE ORCHESTRA, DANCE TROUPE AND A DRAMA GROUP.

IN ADDITION, THE ASSOCIATION OFFERED A WIDE RANGE OF TRAINING COURSES RANGING FROM MUSIC, BALLET AND DRAMA TO HORTICULTURE.

MR CHEUNG ALSO PAID TRIBUTE TO THE HONG KONG BONSAI ASSOCIATION FOR ITS PARTICIPATION IN THE NORTH DISTRICT FLOWER SHOW FOR THE PAST 10 YEARS.

THE ASSOCIATION WAS ALSO PLAYING AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE FIRST NORTH DISTRICT FLOWER, BIRD, INSECT, FISH SHOW TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH. THE SHOW, COSTING OVER $500,000, WOULD BE THE FIRST OF ITS KIND TO BE HELD IN HONG KONG.

MR CHEUNG ADDED THAT THE OPENING OF THE ROCKERY GARDEN WOULD PROVIDE BETTER OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF HORTICULTURAL ACTIVITIES AS WELL AS PROVIDING A PROPER VENUE FOR POT PLANT ENTHUSIASTS TO BE TAUGHT MORE ABOUT THEIR HOBBY.

-----0----------

SAI KUNG FESTIVAL FOR ELDERLY TO CLOSE

» » » * »

MORE THAN 1,300 SENIOR RESIDENTS OF SAI KUNG WILL TAKE PART IN THE CLOSING CEREMONY TOMORROW (SATURDAY) OF THE DISTRICT’S FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY.

ACTIVITIES FOR OLD PEOPLE, SUCH AS SINGING, RIDDLES, AN EXHIBITION, BRASS BAND PERFORMANCE AND A SPORTS COMPETITION, WILL BEGIN AT 10.30 AM AT CHENG CHEK CHEE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY WILL BE A "THOUSAND-YEAR-OLD FEAST", BEGINNING AT 12.30 PM, TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE LONGEVITY OF THE PARTICIPANTS. GOLD MEDALS AND SOUVENIRS WILL BE PRESENTED TO THE SIX OLDEST PEOPLE FROM SAI KUNG, HANG HAU AND RENNIE’S MILL.

SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR KEVIN HO, AND THE REGIONAL WELFARE OFFICER, EAST KOWLOON, MR KWOK KA-CHI, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY.

/THE FESTIVAL

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 26 -

THE FESTIVAL IS AN ANNUAL EVENT JOINTLY ORGANISED BY A PREPARATORY COMMITTEE AND THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICE. IT IS SPONSORED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CLOSING CEREMONY AND FEAST OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY TOMORROW AT THE CHENG CHEK CHEE SECONDARY SCHOOL, HIRAM’S HIGHWAY, CHUK KOK, SAI KUNG. TRANSPORT FOR MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WILL LEAVE FROM THE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER, NEXT TO STAR FERRY, AT 11 AM.

-------0----------

SAND SCULPTURING AND STREET SHOW AT MUI WO *****

MORE THAN 80 YOUNGSTERS WILL JOIN THE FIRST SAND SCULPTURING COMPETITION EVER HELD AT SILVERMINE BAY BEACH ON LANTAU ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 29). IT IS PART OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL.

THE COMPETITION, ORGANISED BY THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE MUI WO SPORTS ASSOCIATION, WILL TAKE PLACE BETWEEN 10.30 AM AND NOON.

EACH TEAM WILL BE ALLOTTED AN AREA OF 3M BY 5M AND PROVIDED WITH BASIC TOOLS. THEIR DESIGNS SHOULD EXPRESS THE THEME OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL - "ISLANDS, MY HOME."

IN THE AFTERNOON, THE FESTIVAL’S CLOSING CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT THE NEW TERRITORIES HEUNG YEE KUK SECONDARY SCHOOL IN MUI WO. OFFICIATING WILL BE THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM WAI-KEUNG, AND ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICER, MR JONATHAN NG.

AFTER THE CEREMONY, A STREET SHOW WILL BE GIVEN BY MEMBERS OF THE FRINGE CLUB AND THERE WILL ALSO BE AN EXHIBITION OF WINNING ENTRIES IN VARIOUS COMPETITIONS HELD DURING THE FESTIVAL.

/MQfBERS OF

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 27 -

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND THE CEREMONY AND THE EXHIBITION WHICH WILL START AT 2.30 PM. ADMISSION IS FREE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SAND SCULPTURING COMPETITION AT SILVERMINE BAY BEACH AND THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FESTIVAL CLOSING CEREMONY AT MUI WO ON SUNDAY.

THE PRESS LAUNCH ’’CLEMENTI” WILL LEAVE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER, TSIM SHA TSUI, FOR MUI WO AT 10.30 AM. INFORMATION OFFICER, MR RAYMOND TAM, WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.

-------0---------

NEW ROADS IN HANG HAU, JUNK BAY ♦ * * ♦

THE GOVERNMENT PLANS TO CONSTRUCT SEVERAL NEW ROADS IN HANG HAU TO PROVIDE VEHICULAR AND PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENTS IN THE AREA AND TO CONNECT JUNK BAY NEW TOWN TO CLEARWATER BAY ROAD, VIA HANG HAU ROAD.

A DUAL CARRIAGEWAY ROAD IS TO BE BUILT BETWEEN PO LAM ESTATE AND HANG HAU ROAD, WHICH WILL PROVIDE A ROAD CONNECTION BETWEEN JUNK BAY NEW TOWN AND CLEARWATER BAY ROAD, VIA HANG HAU ROAD.

SECTIONS OF HANG HAU ROAD BETWEEN HANG HAU TOWN AND PAK SHIN KOK WILL BE IMPROVED TO DUAL CARRIAGEWAY STANDARD, ON A NEW ALIGNMENT, TO CONNECT THE NEW DEVELOPMENT AREAS WITH THE INDUSTRIAL AREAS UNDER CONSTRUCTION AT THE SOUTHERN END OF THE NEW TOWN.

LOCAL ROADS WILL BE CONSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ACCESS TO THE PROPOSED HOUSING ESTATES IN HANG HAU.

A ROTARY ROAD SYSTEM WILL BE BUILT FOR THE PROPOSED TOWN CENTRE IN HANG HAU TO EXPEDITE TRAFFIC FLOW, WHILE PROVIDING MAXIMUM SAFETY AND CONVENIENCE FOR PEDESTRIANS.

A BUS TERMINUS WITH PROVISION FOR INTERCHANGING TO TAXIS AND PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES WILL BE PROVIDED.

WORK IS PLANNED TO COMMENCE IN EARLY 1988 WITH COMPLETION SCHEDULED FOR EARLY 1991.

/THE ROADWORKS

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 28 -

THE ROADWORKS FORM PART OF THE CONTINUING PROGRAMME FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF JUNK BAY NEW TOWN.

DETAILS OF THE PROPOSAL WERE PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).

A COPY OF THE PLAN SHOWING THE EXTENT OF THE PROPOSED WORK CAN BE SEEN DURING OFFICE HOURS AT THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE’S CENTRAL ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, WEST WING, MAIN ENTRANCE LOBBY, HONG KONG; THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, SAI KUNG, SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS, THIRD FLOOR, CHAN MAN STREET, SAI KUNG, NEW TERRITORIES; AND THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICE, SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS, SECOND FLOOR, CHAN MAN STREET, SAI KUNG, NEW TERRITORIES.

ANY OBJECTION TO THE PROPOSAL SHOULD BE SENT IN WRITING TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT AT CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG, BEFORE JANUARY 26 NEXT YEAR.

--------0----------

TENDERS INVITED FOR HIRE OF MOTOR BOATS TO CUSTOMS

* * * »

THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) INVITED TENDERS FOR THE SUPPLY OF A MINIMUM OF THREE MOTOR BOATS ON HIRE AT ONE TIME AT HOURLY RATES TO THE DEPARTMENT FOR A PERIOD OF TWENTY-FOUR MONTHS COMMENCING APRIL 1 NEXT YEAR.

THE BOATS WILL BE USED TO CONVEY CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE OFFICERS FOR JOURNEYS BETWEEN THE SHORE AND SHIPS AT ANCHOR IN THE HARBOUR AND FOR PATROLS WITHIN THE WATERS OF THE TERRITORY. IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE TOTAL HIRING TIME PER MONTH WILL NOT BE LESS THAN 1,600 HOURS.

TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE SUPPLIES SECTION OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT, 8/F, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG.

DETAILS OF THE TENDERING PROCEDURES WERE PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY.

-------0----------

/29

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

- 29 -

URBAN CLEARWAY IN WAN CHAI ♦ * ♦

THE ACCESS ROAD LEADING FROM FLEMING ROAD TO THE WAN CHAI FERRY PIER BUS TERMINUS WILL BE DESIGNATED A 24-HOUR DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 30).

NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.

-------0---------

TRAFFIC CHANGES FOR OPENING OF WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) REMINDED MOTORISTS THAT NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN MONG KOK AND SHAM SHUI PO FROM 10 AM TOMORROW (SATURDAY) TO COINCIDE WITH THE OPENING OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR STAGE III.

IN MONG KOK, FIR STREET BETWEEN LARCH STREET AND FUK TSUN STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED TO ONE-WAY SOUTHWEST-BOUND, WHILE SYCAMORE STREET BETWEEN MAPLE STREET AND PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST WILL BECOME TWO-WAY.

LEFT TURNS FROM TONG MEI ROAD NORTHBOUND ON TO PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST WESTBOUND, AND FROM PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST EASTBOUND ON TO TONG MEI ROAD NORTHBOUND WILL BE BANNED.

AT THE SAME TIME, VEHICLES WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO TURN RIGHT FROM PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST WESTBOUND ON TO SYCAMORE STREET, AND FROM TONG MEI ROAD NORTHBOUND ON TO MONG KOK ROAD EASTBOUND.

WHILE RIGHT TURNS FROM MONG KOK ROAD WESTBOUND ON TO TONG MEI ROAD NORTHBOUND WILL BE BANNED FOR ALL VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES, VEHICLES TRAVELLING ON TONG MEI ROAD NORTHBOUND WILL BE ALLOWED TO TURN RIGHT ON TO PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST EASTBOUND.

ALL PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES, LEARNER DRIVERS, CYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR AND ITS SLIP ROADS.

IN ADDITION, THE OFFSIDE LANE OF MONG KOK ROAD WESTBOUND BETWEEN CHEUNG WONG ROAD AND TONG MEI ROAD WILL BE MADE A BUS-ONLY LANE. NO VEHICLES OTHER THAN FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THIS TRAFFIC LANE AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY.

/TO ENSURE .......

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1987

TO ENSURE SMOOTH TRAFFIC FLOW, CERTAIN SECTION OF LAI CHI KOK ROAD THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR AND ITS SLIP ROADS WILL BE MADE URBAN CLEARWAYS OPERATING ROUND THE CLOCK, 7 AM TO MIDNIGHT OR 7 AM TO 7 PM. MOTORISTS ARE ADVISED TO BE ON THE ALERT FOR TRAFFIC SIGNS.

MOREOVER, MOTORISTS SHOULD ALSO WATCH FOR SPEED LIMIT DIRECTIONS. WHILE A SPEED LIMIT OF 70 KILOMETRES PER HOUR WILL BE IMPOSED ON CERTAIN SECTIONS OF THE WEST KOWLOON CORRIDOR, VEHICLES TRAVELLING ON SOME OTHER SECTIONS OF THE CORRIDOR AND ITS SLIP ROADS WILL ONLY BE ALLOWED TO DRIVE UP TO A LIMIT OF 50 KILOMETRES PER HOUR.

-------0----------

TRAFFIC CHANGES IN TUEN MUN FOR JUNCTION RECONSTRUCTION *****

TO FACILITATE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE JUNCTION OF SHEK PAI TAU ROAD, MING KUM ROAD AND ROAD D7 IN TUEN MUN, THE FOLLOWING TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 30) FOR ABOUT THREE MONTHS:

* VEHICLES ON SHEK PAI TAU ROAD WESTBOUND HEADING FOR ROAD D7 NORTHBOUND WILL HAVE TO USE MING KUM ROAD SOUTHBOUND, PUI TO ROAD EASTBOUND, KIN ON STREET/KIN TAI STREET, KIN WING STREET EASTBOUND, TSUN WEN ROAD SOUTHBOUND, PUI TO ROAD WESTBOUND, MING KUM ROAD NORTHBOUND, SHEK PAI TAU ROAD WESTBOUND, ROAD 2B, ROAD 2C, ROAD 2A AND SHEK PAI TAU ROAD EASTBOUND.

* NO VEHICLES ON SHEK PAI TAU ROAD WESTBOUND WILL BE ALLOWED TO DRIVE ACROSS THE JUNCTION OF SHEK PAI TAU ROAD WITH MING KUM ROAD. THEY WILL BE DIVERTED VIA MING KUM ROAD SOUTHBOUND, PUI TO ROAD EASTBOUND, KIN ON STREET/KIN TAI STREET, KIN WING STREET EASTBOUND, TSUN WEN ROAD SOUTHBOUND, PUI TO ROAD WESTBOUND AND MING KUM ROAD NORTHBOUND.

* ALL VEHICLES ON MING KUM ROAD NORTHBOUND WILL BE BANNED FROM DRIVING ACROSS SHEK PAI TAU ROAD TO ROAD D7 NORTHBOUND. THEY WILL HAVE TO TURN LEFT ON TO SHEK PAI TAU ROAD WESTBOUND BEFORE PROCEEDING ALONG ROAD 2B, ROAD 2C, ROAD 2A AND SHEK PAI TAU ROAD EASTBOUND.

* NO VEHICLES WILL BE ALLOWED TO TURN RIGHT FROM MING KUM ROAD NORTHBOUND ON TO SHEK PAI TAU ROAD EASTBOUND. AFFECTED VEHICLES, INCLUDING KMB ROUTE NOS. 59S, 61, 61A, 62, 66 AND 66M, GREEN MINIBUS ROUTE NO. 47S AND RESIDENTS’ SERVICE ROUTE NO. 76R, WILL BE DIVERTED VIA SHEK PAI TAU ROAD WESTBOUND, ROAD 2B, ROAD 2C AND ROAD 2A.

0----

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

SATURDAY, NOVMBER 28, 1?87

CONTENTS PAGff NO,

TRANSPORT COMPLAINTS QUARTERLY FIGURES RELEASED ............. 1

COMMISSIONER FOR CPNSUS AND STATISTICS PASSED AWAY............ 2

EXPERTS EXCHANGE VIEtfS ON CHILDHOOD NUTRITION.........• ••••. 3

OFFICERS COMPLETE SEARCH aND RESCUE COURSE............... 4

POSITIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR NEEDS OF ELDERLY................... 4

GRAND CLOSING OF SAI KUNG FESTIVAL FOR ELDERLY .............. 5

AREA COMMITTEES PLANNED FOR NORTH DISTRICT ................ 4

SLOGAN COMPETITION TO PROMOTE DB ELECTION IN SHa TIN......... 7

FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR PROVISION OF STUDY ROOMS ................ 7

COMMITTEE MEMBERS VISIT OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH DIVISION......... 8

OUTSTANDING DISABLED STUDENTS TO RECEIVE SCHOLARSHIPS........ 9

MASTERCLASS BY WOODWIND SPECIALIST .......................... 9

CONSTRUCTION OF VILLAGE HOUSES IN JUNK BAY................... 10

HEAVY VEHICLE BAN IN W;iN CHAI

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1987

1 -

TRANSPORT COMPLAINTS QUARTERLY FIGURES RELEASED

♦ ♦ * * »

DURING THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1987/88, THE TRANSPORT COMPLAINTS UNIT (TCU) OF THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 1,985 COMPLAINTS, AN INCREASE OF 15 PER CENT ON THE FIRST QUARTER.

ACCORDING TO THE TCU REPORT JUST RELEASED, COMPLAINTS ABOUT PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES TOTALLED 943 OR 47 PER CENT OF ALL THE COMPLAINTS RECEIVED DURING THE PERIOD UNDER REVIEW FROM JULY 1 TO SEPTEMBER 30. THEY WERE STILL THE LARGEST SINGLE GROUP OF COMPLAINTS HANDLED BY THE UNIT.

REGARDING THE ADEQUACY OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICE, 201 COMPLAINTS WERE RECEIVED. PROPOSALS MADE BY THE COMPLAINANTS INCLUDED INCREASING THE EXISTING FREQUENCY OF SERVICE, INTRODUCTION OF NEW ROUTES AND EXTENSION OF EXISTING ROUTES.

THERE WERE A TOTAL OF 129 COMPLAINTS AGAINST BUS SERVICES. OF THEM, 41 WERE DIRECTED AT THE BUS SERVICE ON HONG KONG ISLAND AND 88 WERE DIRECTED AT KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES.

THESE COMPLAINTS MAINLY CAME FROM BUS COMMUTERS IN THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT ON HONG KONG ISLAND, WEST KOWLOON, KWUN TONG AND NEW TOWNS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES INCLUDING SHA TIN, KWAI TSING, TSUEN WAN AND TUEN MUN.

COMPLAINTS CONCERNING THE STANDARD OF SERVICE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT MADE UP 710 CASES OR 75 PER CENT OF THE CASES INVOLVING PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES. THESE COMPLAINTS WERE TAKEN UP INDIVIDUALLY WITH THE TRANSPORT OPERATORS CONCERNED OR THE RELEVANT AUTHORITIES.

COMPLAINTS ABOUT BUSES NOT KEEPING TO SCHEDULED FREQUENCY WERE MAINLY LEVELLED AT EXTERNAL BUS ROUTES IN KOWLOON WEST AND SHA TIN, AND THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT ON HONG KONG ISLAND.

REGARDING GREEN MINIBUS SERVICES, THE MAIN COMPLAINTS WERE THAT MINIBUSES WERE NOT ADHERING TO APPROVED SCHEDULE OR ROUTES AND THE MISCONDUCT OF DRIVERS.

COMPLAINTS ABOUT TAXI SERVICE ROSE FROM 237 CASES IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER TO 392 CASES, AN INCREASE OF 65.4 PER CENT.

AS IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER, MOST OF THE COMPLAINTS ABOUT TAXI SERVICE WERE CONCERNED WITH MALPRACTICES AND MISCONDUCT OF TAXI DRIVERS, SUCH AS TAXI DRIVERS REFUSING HIRE OR SOLICITING PASSENGERS, NOT TAKING THE MOST DIRECT ROUTE, FAILING TO DRIVE TO DESTINATIONS AND OVERCHARGING.

/ON COMPLAINTS........

SATUKDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1987

- 2

ON COMPLAINTS CONCERNING FERRY SERVICES, 20 OF THEM WERE LEVELLED AT THE HONG KONG AND YAUMATI FERRY COMPANY, THREE AT THE STAR FERRY COMPANY AND ONE AT THE SOK KU WAN TO ABERDEEN MINOR FERRY SERVICE.

THE MAIN AREAS OF COMPLAINT CONCERNED REGULARITY OF SERVICE, CANCELLATION OF FERRY ROUTES AND PASSENGER FACILITIES.

COMPLAINTS ABOUT ROAD CONGESTION TOTALLED 290 CASES - 54 CASES ON HONG KONG ISLAND, 124 CASES IN KOWLOON, 71 CASES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES AND 41 CASES IN TUNNEL AREAS.

FACTORS CAUSING ROAD CONGESTION INCLUDED LOADING AND UNLOADING ACTIVITIES AT KERBSIDE, TRAFFIC ENGINEERING MATTERS, INADEQUATE ROAD CAPACITY AND ROAD WORKS.

OF ALL CASES CONCERNING VEHICLE OBSTRUCTION CAUSING CONGESTION, 30 CASES (35 PER CENT) AND 25 CASES (29 PER CENT) WERE DIRECTED AT LORRIES AND PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES RESPECTIVELY.

COMPLAINTS ABOUT TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT MEASURES DROPPED FROM 95 TO 87. THE MAJOR AREAS OF CONCERN WERE TRAFFIC LIGHT PHASING AND TRAFFIC LANE ARRANGEMENT AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.

COMPLAINTS CONCERNING THE MAINTENANCE OF ROADS AND ROAD FURNITURE INCREASED FROM 159 CASES IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER TO 176 THIS QUARTER. THE MAJOR AREAS OF COMPLAINT WERE DEFECTIVE ROAD SURFACES, MALFUNCTION OF TRAFFIC LIGHTS AND DAMAGED TRAFFIC SIGNS/AIDS.

TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT CASES INCREASED FROM LAST QUARTER’S 178 CASES TO 250 CASES. THEY WERE MAINLY RELATED TO REQUESTS FOR ENFORCEMENT ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL PARKING, ABANDONED VEHICLES AND OTHER TRAFFIC OFFENCES.

--------o ----------

COMMISSIONER FOR CENSUS AND STATISTICS PASSED AWAY * * * * *

DR RICHARD BUTLER, COMMISSIONER FOR CENSUS AND STATISTICS, PASSED AWAY SUDDENLY YESTERDAY (NOVEMBER 27) IN BANGKOK WHILE ATTENDING A CONFERENCE OF THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMISSION FOR ASIA AND PACIFIC (ESCAP). HE WAS 53.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1987

- 3 -

EXPERTS^EXCHANGE VIEWS ON CHILDHOOD NUTRITION * * * * •

NUTRITION AND EARLY GROWTH OF YOUNG INFANTS CONTINUE TO ATTRACT THE ATTENTION OF DOCTORS AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATORS THE WORLD OVER AND WILL HAVE A FAR-REACHING SOCIAL IMPACT ON GENERATIONS TO COME, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).

SHE WAS OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE WORKSHOP ON EARLY CHILDHOOD NUTRITION PROBLEMS IN THE FAR EAST, ARRANGED JOINTLY BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PAEDIATRICS OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG AND THE HONG KONG PAEDIATRIC SOCIETY.

WELCOMING THE ABOUT 200 DELEGATES, SHE SAID THE PURPOSE OF THE WORKSHOP WAS TO BRING TOGETHER PAEDIATRICIANS AND SCIENTISTS FROM VARIOUS COUNTRIES TO DISCUSS PROBLEMS OF NUTRITION THAT THEY WERE NOW SEEING IN CHILDREN.

’’THIS PROBLEM WILL BE VIEWED AGAINST A BACKGROUND OF AN UPDATE ON WHAT IS CURRENTLY KNOWN ABOUT NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS IN CHILDHOOD,” MRS WONG SAID.

’’THIS IS THE FIRST TIME SUCH A GATHERING HAS TAKEN PLACE IN HONG KONG AND AUGURS WELL FOR CLOSER TIES WITH THE PEOPLES IN THESE GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS WHO SHARE, LN MANY CASES, A COMMON HERITAGE, LIFE STYLES AND ETHNIC ROOTS.”

MRS WONG SAID SHE WAS AWARE THAT A GREAT EFFORT WAS BEING MADE TO INCREASE THE INCIDENCE OF BREAST FEEDING AND TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF DIET DURING WEANING SO THAT CHILDREN COULD ACHIEVE OPTIMUM GROWTH IN HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT.

”1 THINK THE PROSPECT OF BRINGING TOGETHER CURRENT KNOWLEDGE OF EXPERTS ON THESE ISSUES AND THE OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE VIEWS AND EXCHANGE INFORMATION IS GOING TO BE OF GREAT BENEFIT TO THIS REGION AND TO PEOPLES FROM DIVERSE GEOGRAPHICAL AND ECONOMIC BACKGROUNDS," SHE SAID.

SHE BELIEVED THAT THE CONTINUING RESEARCH AND FINDINGS, AS CONTRIBUTED BY MANY OF THE DELEGATES, WOULD FORM A SOUND BASIS FROM WHICH EDUCATIONAL AND ECONOMICAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAMMES COULD BE DRAWN UP.

"WITH THE CLOSE CO-OPERATION AMONGST PROFESSIONALS FROM THE MEDICAL RELATED FIELDS, SOCIAL WORKERS AND COMMUNITY EDUCATORS, I AM SURE MEANINGFUL PROGRAMMES WILL BE DEVELOPED TO TACKLE NUTRITIONAL PROBLEMS AND TO HELP THE PEOPLES OE VARIOUS NATIONS TO DEVELOP TO THEIR HIGHEST POTENTIAL,” SHE ADDED.

SHE COMPLIMENTED THE ORGANISERS FOR THEIR VISION AND EFFORT IN ARRANGING THE WORKSHOP.

--------0----------

/4........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1987

- 4 -

OFFICERS COMPLETE SEARCH AND RESCUE COURSE

*****

THIRTY-THREE OFFICERS FROM FOUR GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND THREE REPRESENTATIVES FROM CHINA WERE THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING PRESENTED WITH CERTIFICATES OF ATTENDANCE AT THE END OF A TWO-WEEK SEARCH AND RESCUE TRAINING COURSE.

THE COURSE, ORGANISED BY THE MARINE DEPARTMENT, WAS THE SECOND SUCH COURSE CONDUCTED IN HONG KONG BY FOUR U.S. COAST GUARD OFFICERS.

SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY, THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR GERRY HIGGINSON, REFERRED TO THE MARITIME SEARCH OPERATION MOUNTED YESTERDAY IN THE SOUTH CHINA SEA.

HE SAID THIS HIGHLIGHTED THE NEED FOR THE SEARCH AND RESCUE COURSE AND THAT HE LOOKED FORWARD TO A FURTHER COURSE BEING HELD IN TWO YEARS’ TIME.

IN RESPONSE, LIEUT-COMMANDER GREG LEBER, LEADER OF THE U.S. COAST GUARD TEAM, PRAISED COURSE MEMBERS FOR THEIR DEDICATION AND HARD WORK.

THE COURSE COULD NOT BE SUCCESSFUL WITHOUT THE ACTIVE SUPPORT OF THE ORGANISATIONS INVOLVED, HE ADDED.

THE 33 OFFICERS WHO UNDERWENT TRAINING CAME FROM THE MARINE DEPARTMENT, MARINE POLICE, THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE AND THE CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT.

AT THE CEREMONY, THE DEPARTMENTS AND THE CHINESE REPRESENTATIVES ALSO EXCHANGED PLAQUES AND OTHER SOUVENIRS WITH THE U.S. COAST GUARD OFFICERS.

-----0------

POSITIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR NEEDS OF ELDERLY

*****

THE GOVERNMENT HAS DRAWN UP A SERIES OF PROJECTS TO MEET THE DEMAND FOR SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY IN NORTH DISTRICT, THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR MATTHEW CHEUNG, SAID THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING.

SPEAKING AT THE OPEN DAY OF THE NINTH FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY OF THE BUDDHIST PO CHING HOME FOR THE AGED, MR CHEUNG SAID THAT TWO SOCIAL CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY WOULD BE OPENED AT THE CHEUNG WAH AND TIN PING ESTATES IN THE NEXT TWO YEARS.

/BY 1990, .........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1987

- 5

BY 1990, A HOSTEL FOR THE ELDERLY AND A HOME CARE AND ATTENTION UNIT WOULD ALSO BE BUILT AT, RESPECTIVELY, THE TIN PING ESTATE AND THE WAH MING ESTATE, WHICH IS NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION, HE SAID.

TO MEET DEMANDS OF THE GROWING POPULATION IN FANLING SOUTH, A MULTI-SERVICES CENTRE AND A DAY CARE CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY WOULD BE SET UP IN 1990/91, HE SAID.

, MR CHEUNG NOTED THAT OF THE 145,000 POPULATION IN THE DISTRICT, THOSE AGED OVER 60 TOTALLED 16,730, OR 11.5 PER CENT.

IN VIEW OF THIS, THE DISTRICT OFFICE FORMED A CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE EACH YEAR TO ORGANISE ACTIVITIES TO PROMOTE RESPECT FOR ELDERS, HE SAID.

ACTIVITIES ORGANISED THIS YEAR INCLUDED A MID-AUTUMN CANTONESE OPERA SHOW, FREE MEDICAL CHECK-UPS, VISITS TO INSTITUTIONS AND HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY AS WELL AS THE DISTRIBUTION OF UMBRELLAS.

A CARNIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY WOULD BE HELD AT THE CHOI YUEN COVERED PLAYGROUND IN SHEUNG SHUI ON DECEMBER 13 AND THE DISTRICT’S FEAST FOR SENIOR RESIDENTS WOULD BE HELD NEXT MARCH, HE ADDED.

MR CHEUNG ALSO COMMENDED THE HEUNG HOI CHING KOK LIN ASSOCIATION WHICH RUNS THE BUDDHIST PO CHING HOME FOR THE AGED FOR ITS CONTRIBUTION TO CARING FOR THE ELDERLY AND FOR ITS EFFORTS IN PROVIDING A SPECIAL SCHOOL FOR THE HANDICAPPED IN THE NEAR FUTURE.

-----0-----

GRAND CLOSING OF SAI KUNG FESTIVAL FOR ELDERLY

*****

THE LONGEVITY OF MORE THAN 1,300 SAI KUNG ELDERLY FOLK WAS ACKNOWLEDGED AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY TODAY (SATURDAY).

THE FESTIVAL, ONE OF THE LARGEST ANNUAL EVENTS IN THE DISTRICT, WAS AIMED AT AROUSING RESIDENTS’ CONCERN AND RESPECT FOR THE ELDERLY AS WELL AS AT ENCOURAGING SENIOR RESIDENTS TO TAKE PART IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.

THE CLOSING CEREMONY, HELD AT CHENG CHEK CHEE SECONDARY SCHOOL, BEGAN WITH A CARNIVAL WHICH INCLUDED SINGING, RIDDLES, AN EXHIBITION, A BRASS BAND PERFORMANCE, AND A SPORTS COMPETITION FOR ELDERLY FOLK.

THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY WAS A "THOUSAND-YEAR-OLD FEAST" FOR MORE THAN 1,400 ELDERLY PEOPLE AND GUESTS.

/gold medals .......

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1987

GOLD MEDALS AND SOUVENIRS WERE PRESENTED TO THE SIX OLDEST PEOPLE FROM SAI KUNG, HANG HAU AND RENNIE'S MILL.

THE FESTIVAL WAS ORGANISED BY A PREPARATORY COMMITTEE WHICH COMPRISED DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.

ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN INCLUDED VISITS, TOURS, PICNICS, CONCERTS, FILM SHOWS, SPORTS COMPETITIONS AND MEDICAL CHECK-UPS.

THE FESTIVAL COST AROUND $150,000, WHICH WAS SPONSORED BY THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD AND LOCAL LEADERS.

- - - - 0-------------

AREA COMMITTEES PLANNED FOR NORTH DISTRICT

*****

THE DISTRICT OFFICE IS PLANNING TO SET UP TWO AREA COMMITTEES WITHIN THE NEW TOWN AREA IN NORTH DISTRICT IN THE COMING FINANCIAL YEAR, DISTRICT OFFICER, MR MATTHEW CHEUNG, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).

SPEAKING AT THE DISTRICT’S "ANTI-FALLING OBJECT” VARIETY SHOW MR CHEUNG SAID THAT THE TWO AREA COMMITTEES WOULD BE SET UP IN FANLING AND SHEUNG SHUI.

"THIS MOVE WILL ENABLE THE NEW AND OLD RESIDENTS TO FURTHER COOPERATE FOR THE GOOD OF THE DISTRICT," HE SAID.

HE SAID THAT THERE WERE ALREADY A FEW DISTRICTS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WITH AREA COMMITTEES AND HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT THEIR FORMATION IN NORTH DISTRICT WOULD SERVE AS AN EFFECTIVE LINK AMONG THE MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES, OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS AND LOCAL BODIES AND WOULD ASSIST THE DISTRICT BOARD IN SOLVING DISTRICT PROBLEMS.

MR CHEUNG SAID HE WAS GLAD TO SEE THAT RESIDENTS MOVING INTO HOUSING ESTATES IN THE DISTRICT IN THE PAST FEW YEARS HAD FOUND THEMSELVES A COMFORTABLE HOME AND, LIKE THEIR INDIGENOUS COUNTERPARTS HAD ACTIVELY PARTICIPATED IN COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES.

MR CHEUNG ALSO URGED RESIDENTS TO EXERCISE THEIR CIVIC RESPONSIBILITIES AND BE CONSIDERATE BY NOT THROWING OBJECTS FROM A HEIGHT.

-----o------

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1987

- 7 -

SLOGAN COMPETITION TO PROMOTE DB ELECTION IN SHA TIN *****

A SLOGAN COMPETITION IS BEING ORGANISED BY THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE TO PROMOTE THE COMING DISTRICT BOARD ELECTION.

"THE COMPETITION JS OPEN TO ALL PEOPLE AGED 15 OR ABOVE WHO EITHER LIVE, WORK OR STUDY IN SHA TIN AND IS AIMED AT CALLING ON SOME 85,300 REGISTERED VOTERS IN SHA TIN TO VOTE IN THE DB ELECTION ON MARCH 10," A SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).

"THE SLOGAN MUST BE IN CHINESE AND PREFERABLY NOT EXCEEDING 16 CHARACTERS," HE ADDED.

THE SPOKESMAN SAID THAT THERE WOULD NOT BE ANY LIMITATION ON THE NUMBER OF ENTRIES SUBMITTED BY A PARTICIPANT. HOWEVER, ANY ENTRY MUST BE THE ORIGINAL WORK OF THE PARTICIPANT OR HE WOULD BE DISQUALIFIED.

THE DISTRICT OFFICE ALSO RESERVED THE RIGHT TO USE ANY ENTRY IN ITS ORIGINAL OR AMENDED FORM FOR ANY OCCASION WITHOUT CONSENT FROM OR ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FOR THE WRITER, HE SAID.

"THE ENTRY, TOGETHER WITH THE PARTICIPANT’S NAME, ID CARD NUMBER, ADDRESS, CONTACT TELEPHONE NUMBER AND POSSIBLY NAME AND ADDRESS OF SCHOOL OR WORKING PLACE, SHOULD REACH THE ADJUDICATION PANEL OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE ON 6/F, KCR HOUSE, SHA TIN STATION NOT LATER THAN DECEMBER 31," HE SAID.

THE WRITER OF THE BEST SLOGAN WILL BE AWARDED A WALKMAN.

FURTHER DETAILS CAN BE OBTAINED ON 0-6048078.

-----0-----

FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR PROVISION OF STUDY ROOMS

*****

LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES ARE BEING INVITED TO APPLY FOR DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS TO PROVIDE TEMPORARY STUDY ROOM FACILITIES IN KWUN TONG DURING THE SCHOOL EXAMINATION PERIOD.

INITIATED BY THE BOARD’S SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTE, THE STUDY ROOM SCHEME HAS BEEN OPERATING SINCE 1983 AND HAS BEEN WELL RECEIVED BY STUDENTS.

/’’THE SCHEME..........

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1?8?

"THE SCHEME AIMS AT PROVIDING STUDY ROOM SERVICE TO STUDENTS WHO ARE IN NEED OF A BETTER ENVIRONMENT TO PREPARE FOR THEIR EXAMINATIONS, ESPECIALLY FOR PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE COMMITTEE SAID.

"THIS YEAR, THE COMMITTEE HAS RESERVED $30,000 FOR THE PROJECT TO BE CARRIED OUT FROM MARCH 1 TO MAY 31 NEXT YEAR," HE NOTED.

FUNDS WILL BE GRANTED TO SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS FOR EMPLOYING A PART-TIME SUPERVISOR AND TO COVER OVERTIME ALLOWANCES FOR CARETAKERS AND OTHER EXPENSES.

"DETAILS OF THE APPLICATION CRITERIA ARE GIVEN IN A LETTER WHICH WAS SENT OUT EARLIER TO LOCAL VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND ORGANISATIONS TO INVITE APPLICATIONS," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.

APPLICATIONS SHOULD REACH THE COMMITTEE SECRETARY BY DECEMBER 18.

ENQUIRIES MAY BE MADE ON 3-416315, EXT 451.

-----0-----

COMMITTEE MEMBERS VISIT OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH DIVISION

*****

MEMBERS OF THE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE VISITED THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH DIVISION AFTER THEIR REGULAR MEETING THIS WEEK.

ACCOMPANIED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE, MR HAROLD KWOK, AND THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH CONSULTANT IN CHARGE OF THE DIVISION, DR S.Y. CHAN, MEMBERS WERE SHOWN AROUND VARIOUS SECTIONS WHICH PROVIDED A STRONG BACK-UP IN THE PROMOTION OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN HONG KONG.

THE DIVISION ADVISES BOTH THE GOVERNMENT AND THE PUBLIC ON MATTERS CONCERNING THE HEALTH OF WORKERS AND THE HVG1ENE OF THE WORKPLACES.

MEMBERS LEARNED THAT THE DIVISION ALSO UNDERTOOK MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS OF PERSONNEL EXPOSED TO HAZARDS SUCH AS RADIATION AND COMPRESSED AIR, AND ASSESSED EMPLOYEES’ INJURIES UNDER THE EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION ORDINANCE AND THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) ORDINANCE.

THEY WERE PARTICULARLY IMPRESSED BY THE VARIOUS SAMPLING EQUIPMENT USED IN FIELD WORKS TO MEASURE TOXIC GAS, DUST, VAPOUR AND RADIATION.

--------o ----------

/9........

SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 28, 1987

- 9 -OUTSTANDING DISABLED STUDENTS TO RECEIVE SCHOLARSHIPS *****

TEN OUTSTANDING DISABLED STUDENTS WHO HAVE ATTAINED GOOD ACADEMIC RESULTS AND DEMONSTRATED ENTHUSIASM IN RENDERING SERVICES TO SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITY WILL BE AWARDED THE SHELL/ISLAND JAYCEES ■SCHOLARSHIPS AND TROPHIES OF MERIT ON WEDNESDAY (DECEMBER 2).

THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y.T. LI, AND THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE SHELL COMPANY OF HONG KONG LIMITED, MR H.G. WEBB-PEPLOE, WILL JOINTLY OFFICIATE AT THE AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY AT SHELL HOUSE, 10TH FLOOR, 24 QUEEN’S ROAD, CENTRAL, ON WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT AT THE SHELL HOUSE, 24 QUEEN’S ROAD, CENTRAL, ON WEDNESDAY (DECEMBER 2) AT 3 PM.

MASTERCLASS BY WOODWIND SPECIALIST

*****

A MASTERCLASS FOR BAND DIRECTORS AND WIND INSTRUMENT INSTRUCTORS WILL BE HELD AT THE YAU MA TEI MUSIC CENTRE OF THE MUSIC OFFICE ON DECEMBER 2 (WEDNESDAY), FROM 5 PM TO 7 PM.

THE MASTERCLASS, TO BE CONDUCTED BY AN INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED MUSICIAN, MR BRUCE PEARSON, WILL FOCUS ON VARIOUS METHODS AND TECHNIQUES OF BAND TRAINING, AND MEMBERS OF THE HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONIC BAND WILL ALSO GIVE DEMONSTRATIONS.

MR PEARSON IS A WOODWIND SPECIALIST AND COMPOSER. HE HAS BEEN TEACHING MUSIC IN SCHOOLS FOR 20 YEARS.

ADMISSION TO THE MASTERCLASS IS FREE, AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. RESERVATIONS CAN BE MADE ON 3-7226240 AND 5-8235321.

0 w

/10 .......

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1987

10 -

CONSTRUCTION OF VILLAGE HOUSES IN JUNK BAY ♦ ♦ » ♦ ♦

A TOTAL OF 20 THREE-STOREY VILLAGE HOUSES ARE TO AREA 31 OF JUNK BAY FOR HOUSE OWNERS TO BE MOVED FROM MAKE WAY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE NEW TOWN.

BE BUILT AT

HANG HAU TO

COVERING AN AREA OF ABOUT 32,500 SQUARE METRES, ALSO INCLUDE A VILLAGE OFFICE BUILDING, A REFUSE POINT, AN OPEN CARPARK, A BASKETBALL COURT AND VILLAGE SQUARE

WILL

THE PROJECT COLLECTION

THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAS MILLION CONTRACT FOR THE PROJECT. WORK WILL START IN AND TAKE 11 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.

AWARDED A $18

EARLY DECEMBER

-----0----------

HEAVY VEHICLE BAN IN WAN CHAI * » * ♦

FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY (DECEMBER 1), NO VEHICLE OVER FOUR TONNES GROSS WILL BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE SECTION OF WAN CHAI GAP ROAD EAST OF QUEEN’S ROAD EAST.

THE BAN, REQUIRED BECAUSE OF DRAINAGE WORKS, WILL BE IN FORCE FOR ABOUT TWO MONTHS.

- - 0 - -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 198?

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

SECOND DAY OF PAC OPEN HEARINGS ........................... 1

MORE PEOPLE MAKE USE OF RENT OFFICER SCHEME........... 2

CLOSER LINK WITH DISTRICT BODIES TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION 5

HEARING CONSERVATION SURVEY DUE TO START................. 4

RESIDENTS URGED TO OBSERVE BASIC ROAD SAFETY RULES......... 5

CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE COMMUNITY SPIRIT IN SHA TIN TOWN CENTRE 6

YOUTH STRING MUSIC WEEK BEGINS ........................... 7

NEW IDENTITY CARDS FOR MEN BORN IN 1961/62 ................ 8

PRESS CONFERENCE ON CHILD ABUSE FORUM ......................... 9

QUARTERS FOR FIRE SERVICES PERSONNEL........................ 9

STREET IN WANG TAU HOM TEMPORARILY CLOSED ................. .... 10

URBaN COUNCIL COMPLEX TO BE BUILT IN YAU MA TEI ........... 11

SAI KUNG CAR PARK SUSPENDED ............................... 11

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1987

SECOND DAY OF PAC OPEN HEARINGS * * * * t

THE SECOND SESSION OF THIS YEAR’S OPEN HEARINGS OF THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE WILL START AT 8.30 AM TOMORROW (MONDAY) TN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER.

APPEARING BEFORE THE COMMITTEE TO ANSWER POINTS RAISED IN THE DIRECTOR OF AUDIT’S ANNUAL REPORT WILL BE THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, THE DEPUTY FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE COMMISSIONER OF RATING AND VALUATION, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, THE ACTING DATA PROCESSING MANAGER, THE DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION, THE DIRECTOR OF CIVIL AVIATION, THE SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE AND THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES.

IN ADDITION, REPRESENTATIVES FROM CHINA LIGHT AND POWER CO. LTD WILL ATTEND TO ANSWER QUESTIONS IN CONNECTION WITH POINTS RAISED ON THE FIRST DAY OF OPEN HEARINGS LAST THURSDAY.

THE TIMETABLE FOR TOMORROW’S HEARING IS AS FOLLOWS:

8.30 AM CHINA LIGHT AND POWER CO. LTD PARAGRAPHS 65-70

9 AM DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION PARAGRAPHS 50 - 64

9.45 AM SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES PARAGRAPHS 120 - 121

10.30 AM DEPUTY FINANCIAL SECRETARY AND COMMISSIONER OF RATING AND VALUATION PARAGRAPHS 13 - 14

11.15 AM SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE PARAGRAPHS 114 - 119

11.45 AM DEPUTY FINANCIAL SECRETARY AND ACTING DATA PROCESSING MANAGER PARAGRAPHS 36 - 39

12.15 PM DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION AND DIRECTOR OF CIVIL AVIATION PARAGRAPHS 16 - 19

2.30 PM SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND INFORMATION, SECRETARY FOR SECURITY AND DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE PARAGRAPHS 40 - 45

/5.3O PM

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1987

3.30 PM

ACTING DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL \ND HEALTH SERVICES PARAGRAPHS 100 - 110

NOTE TO EDITORS:

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES COVERING THE OPEN HEARINGS ARE ADVISED TO BRING WITH THEM A COPY OF THE DIRECTOR OF AUDIT’S REPORT.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE STARTING TIME IS NOW 8.30 AM, INSTEAD OF 9 AM.

-----0-----

MORE PEOPLE MAKE USE OF RENT OFFICER SCHEME

*****

MORE LANDLORDS AND TENANTS HXVE MADE USE OF THE RENT OFFICER SCHEME TO CLARIFY DOUBTS ABOUT THEIR STATUTORY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS.

DURING THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF 1987, MORE THAN 13,000 ENQUIRIES ON TENANCY ISSUES HAD BEEN RECEIVED, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 46.3 PER CENT OVER THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.

THE MOST COMMON PROBLEMS WERE RECOVERY/EVICT1ON OF PREMISES, LEGAL PROCEEDINGS ON TENANCY DISPUTES AND RENT ARREARS, A CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).

THE RENT OFFICER SCHEME, ADMINISTERED BY THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT, WAS FIRST IMPLEMENTED IN APRIL 1978. THROUGH REFERRALS, LANDLORDS AND TENANTS CAN THEN DISCUSS THEIR PROBLEMS WITH RENT OFFICERS FROM THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT AT DISTRICT OFFICES.

"UNDER THE SCHEME, RENT OFFICERS ARE AVAILABLE AT CERTAIN DISTRICT OFFICES AT SPECIFIED TIME EACH WEEK DURING OFFICE HOURS TO ADVISE ON TENANCY MATTERS AND TO DEAL DIRECTLY WITH REFERRED CASES.

"THESE DISTRICT OFFICES ARE A'! CENTRAL AND WESTERN, WAN CHAI, SOUTHERN, EASTERN, YAU MA TEI, MONG KOK, SHAM SHUI PO, KOWLOON CITY, WONG TAI SIN, KWUN TONG, TSUEN WAN, KWAI TSING AND YUEN LONG," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.

MEMBERS OF I’HE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO SEEK ADVICE OR OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SERVICE MA> APPROACH ANY OF THE 67 PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRES OR THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE SECTION AT CNTA HEADQUARTERS ON 13/F, WORLD SHIPPING CENTRE, 7 (’ANTON ROAD, HARBOUR CITY, TS1M SHA TSUI, KOWLOON. IHEY MAY ALSO (’ALL 3-692255.

0 -

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 19B7

- 5 -

CL'.OSER LINK WITH DISTRICT BODIES TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION » » » »

THE ESTABLISHMENT OE CLOSER LINK WITH DISTRICT ORGANISATIONS IS ONE OF THE MAJOR WORK PLANS OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION (CPCE) THIS YEAR, CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE, MRS RITA FAN SAID THIS (SUNDAY) AFTERNOON.

SHE WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF AN EXHIBITION ON DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION STAGED BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD’S ORGANISING COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION AT THE TELFORD GARDENS.

"IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF OUR COMMITTEE TO CO-ORDINATE ALL THE EFFORTS TN THE ARFA OF CIVIC EDUCATION, TO PROVIDE THE ORGANISATIONS WITH THE NECESSARY INFORMATION AND RESOURCES, AND TO ASSIST THEM IN PROMOTING THE CAMPAIGN.

"THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD’S ORGANISING COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION IS AMONG THOSE ORGANISATIONS WITH WHICH WE WISH TO STRENGTHEN OUR LINK," SHE SAID.

MRS FAN NOTED THAT TODAY’S EXHIBITION WAS INTENDED TO ENHANCE KWUN TONG RESIDENTS' UNDERSTANDING OF THE STRUCTURE OF DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION AND TO ENCOURAGE THEM TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.

THE SLOGAN OF THE CPCE WAS "CARE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY, WORK FOR YOUR COMMUNITY", AND THE EXHIBITION ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD WAS AN INITIAL STEP TOWARDS AROUSING PEOPLE’S CONCERN IN THIS ASPECT, SHE ADDED.

ALSO SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY, DISTRICT OFFICER MR EDDY’ CHAN SAID THE DISTRICT BOARD, AREA COMMITTEES (AC), MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES (MAC) AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS (OC) PLAYED A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME.

"GOOD COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN THESE ORGANISATIONS WILL RESULT IN EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF DISTRICT AFFAIRS AND CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS THE WELL-BEING OF THE COMMUNITY," MR CHAN SAID.

HE SAID THE MAC’S AND OC’S WERE ORGANISATIONS AT THE VERY GRASSROOT LEVEL, WHICH MAINTAINED CLOSE CONTACTS WITH RESIDENTS IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD AND HELPED IMPROVE BUILDING MANAGEMENT AND THE LAW AND ORDER SITUATION.

MR CHAN SAID MANY OF THE MAC AND OC MEMBERS WHO SAT ON THE AC’S ALSO ADVISED THE ADMINISTRATION ON MATTERS CONCERNING THE WELL-BEING OF LOCAL RESIDENTS, AND ASSISTED IN PROMOTING COMMUNITY BUILDING PROJECTS ORGANISED BY THE GOVERNMENT OR THE DISTRICT BOARD.

/UE ALSO

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2V, 198?

HE ALSO NOTED THAT AS DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS WERE ALSO MEMBERS OF THEIR RESPECTIVE AC’S, THE AC’S VIEWS COULD BE CHANNELLED BACK -TO THE BOARD.

MR CHAN SAID THE COMMUNICATION CHANNEL HAD BEEN OPERATING EFFECTIVELY, AS EVIDENCED BY THE FACT THAT VIEWS GIVEN BY THE AC’S, MAC’S AND OC’S WERE REGULARLY REFLECTED BY THE BOARD, WHICH WAS SET UP TO ADVISE THE ADMINISTRATION ON DISTRICT MATTERS.

’’MORE KWUN TONG RESIDENTS SHOULD PARTICIPATE IN THE WORK OF THESE DISTRICT ORGANISATIONS AND CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS IMPROVING THE COMMUNITY," HE SAID.

THE EXHIBITION WILL BE MOVED TO THE TELFORD GARDENS SHOPPING ARCADE TOMORROW FOR DISPLAY UNTIL DECEMBER 2. THEN THE PANELS WILL BE ON LOAN FOR EXHIBITIONS HELD BY LOCAL ORGANISATIONS.

------0 --------

HEARING CONSERVATION SURVEY DUE TO START ♦ * * ♦ ♦

HEARING CONSERVATION IS AN INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT AREA IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN HONG KONG.

TO RECOGNISE THE EXTENT OF THE PROBLEM AND TO EVALUATE EXISTING CONTROL MEASURES, A YEAR-LONG SURVEY WILL BE CARRIED OUT AMONG WORKERS IN THE ELECTRONICS, SHTPBUILDING/SHIP REPAIRING, PLASTICS, TEXTILES, METAL AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRIES.

ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF TRADE UNIONS (FTU), THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY MEDICINE OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY AND THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, THE SURVEY WILL INVOLVE MEASUREMENT OF HEARING ACUITY OF WORKERS AND THE NOISE LEVELS IN THE WORKPLACES AND SPECIFIED LOCATIONS OF THE SIX INDUSTRIES.

AT THE END OF THE SURVEY, A REPORT WILL BE COMPILED AND FORWARDED TO THE RELEVANT ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS FOR REFERENCE.

/the COST

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1987

- 5 -

THE COST OF THE PROJECT, ESTIMATED AT $200,000, IS BEING MET BY THE FTU.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

DETAILS OF THE SURVEY WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD AT THE FTU’S HEADQUARTERS, 50 MA TAU CHUNG ROAD, AT 3.30 PM TOMORROW (MONDAY).

THE FTU CHAIRMAN, MR CHENG YIU-TONG; THE HEAD OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY’S DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY MEDICINE, PROFESSOR STUART DONNAN; AND THE CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, MR YIP YUK-LUN, WILL JOINTLY CHAIR THE CONFERENCE.

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT.

-------0----------

RESIDENTS URGED TO OBSERVE BASIC ROAD SAFETY RULES t t * t t

RESIDENTS OF CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT WERE TODAY (SUNDAY) REMINDED THAT A FEW BASIC ROAD SAFETY PRECAUTIONS COULD REDUCE TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT THIS AFTERNOON, THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR LAM KAM-KWONG, SAID THE NUMBER OF ROAD ACCIDENTS AT THE DISTRICT’S VARIOUS BLACKSPOTS HAD INCREASED, AND THE MAJORITY INVOLVED CARELESS PEDESTRIANS.

"AMONG THE PEDESTRIANS INJURED, MANY WERE CHILDREN UNDER 14 YEARS OLD OR ELDERLY RESIDENTS," HE ADDED.

MR LAM POINTED OUT THAT AS THERE WERE A NUMBER OF LARGE-SCALE ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS UNDERWAY, PEDESTRIANS SHOULD PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THESE WHEN USING THE ROADS. HE ALSO ADVISED DRIVERS THAT IT WAS A MORAL RESPONSIBILITY TO GIVE WAY TO PEDESTRIANS.

OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS INCLUDED DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, VINCENT KO; POLICE CENTRAL DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR BILL KIRKHOPE' POLICE WESTERN DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR E.J. STEVENSON; SENIOR STAFF OFFICER OF THE POLICE TRAFFIC SECTION (HONG KONG ISLAND), MR LAM KIN; CHAIRMAN OF ROAD SAFETY DAY ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR CHAM SIU-LEUN AND THE BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR HUNG WING-TAT.

/THE CARNIVAL

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1987

- 6 -

THE CARNIVAL FEATURED A CLASSIC TRAM TOUR, GAMESTALLS, TONGUE-TWISTER GAME ON ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES, PHOTO EXHIBITION ON TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, A DISPLAY OF DAMAGED CARS AS WELL AS CHORAL SINGING AND ROCK BAND PERFORMANCES.

A MOBILE ROAD SAFETY TOWN WAS ALSO SET UP TO EDUCATE PEOPLE ON ROAD SAFETY CODES AND MANY YOUNGSTERS ALSO ENJOYED THEMSELVES BY PLAYING IN AN INFLATABLE GORILLA.

DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS DISTRIBUTED CARTOON ROAD SAFETY LEAFLETS TO RESIDENTS.

THE FUNCTION WAS ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD, WITH THE AS I STANCE OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE POLICE.

-------0---------

CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE COMMUNITY SPIRIT IN SHA TIN TOWN CENTRE * * *

A CAMPAIGN IS NOW UNDERWAY TO PROMOTE RESIDENTS’ KNOWLEDGE OF AND SENSE OF BELONGING TO "THE S1JA TIN TOWN CENTRE AREA.

ORGANISED BY THE SHA TIN TOWN CENTRE AREA COMMITTEE, THE CAMPAIGN INCLUDES A PHOTO COMPETITION, QUIZ, VARIETY SHOW AND A SERIES OF EXHIBITIONS.

THE THEME OF ENTRIES FOR THE PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION, WHICH IS DIVIDED INTO OPEN AND STUDENT GROUPS, SHOULD BE "SHA TIN TOWN CENTRE IN PERSPECTIVE".

THE PHOTOGRAPHS MUST BE 20 CM X 25 CM AND FRAMED, WITH THE PARTICIPANT’S NAME, ADDRESS, CONTACT PHONE NUMBER, ID CARD NUMBER, NAME OF SCHOOL OR STUDENT GROUP WRITTEN ON THE BACK.

WINNING ENTRIES IN THE PHOTO COMPETITION, TOGETHER WITH OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS AND INFORMATION ABOUT THE TOWN CENTRE AREA, WILL BE SHOWN IN A SERIES OF EXHIBITIONS TO BE HELD IN NEW TOWN PLAZA, SUI WO COURT AND JUBILEE GARDEN BETWEEN JANUARY 2 AND 17.

ENTRY FORMS FOR THE QUIZ COMPETITION ARE NOW OBTAINABLE FROM THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE ENQUIRY CENTRE ON 1/F, KCR HOUSE, SHA TIN STATION.

ENTRIES FOR THE PHOTO COMPETITION AND COMPLETED QUIZ FORMS MUST REACH THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE ENQUIRY CENTRE BY DECEMBER 18.

WINNERS OF BOTH THE PHOTO AND QUIZ COMPETITIONS WILL BE PRESENTED PRIZES DURING THE SHA TIN TOWN CENTRE VARIETY SHOW TO BE HELD AT THE MUSICAL FOUNTAIN AREA OF NEW TOWN PLAZA ON JANUARY 2.

FURTHER DETAILS ABOUT THE COMPETITIONS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM 0-6048078, EXT 321.

-------0 ---------

/7........

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1987

7 -

YOUTH STRING MUSIC WEEK BEGINS . * * ♦

YOUTH STRING MUSIC WEEK, ORGANISED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE TO CELEBRATE ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY, BEGAN TODAY (SUNDAY) WITH A YOUTH STRINGS CONCERT HELD AT THE NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE.

FIVE STRING ORCHESTRAS OF THE MUSIC OFFICE PERFORMED BEFORE A CAPACITY AUDIENCE, PLAYING POPULAR PIECES BY HAYDN, BRAHMS, MOZART,BACH AND BEETHOVEN.

BESIDES FORMAL CONCERTS, A SERIES OF FREE STUDENT CONCERTS, WORKSHOPS FOR STRING INSTRUCTORS AND COMMUNITY CONCERTS HAVE BEEN ARRANGED AS PART OF A VARIED PROGRAMME.

ON TUESDAY, A ’’JING YING” CONCERT WILL BE STAGED AT THE CULTURAL ACTIVITIES HALL, SHA TIN TOWN HALL, BEGINNING AT 8 PM. TALENTED YOUNG LOCAL MUSICIANS, INCLUDING LUNG HEUNG-WING (PERCUSSION), LAM SEE-MING (PIANO), LEE SIU-LAM (HORN), YEUNG YUEK-CHAI (VIOLIN), SUSAN CHAN (PIANO), AND JAMES LEUNG (BASSOON), WILL PERFORM. f

A VISITING STRING GROUP FROM WISCONSIN IN THE ’UNITED STATES, THE TREMPER GOLDEN STRINGS, HAS BEEN INVITED TO TAKE PART IN THE WEEK’S ACTIVITIES.

FOUNDED IN 1972, THE GOLDEN STRINGS GIVE QUALIFIED MUSIC STUDENTS AN OPPORTUNITY TO PERFORM A VARIETY OF POPULAR MUSIC GENERALLY INACCESSIBLE TO STRING PERFORMERS AND TO ENTERTAIN IN VARIOUS CIVIC FUNCTIONS AS WELL AS SCHOOL FUNCTIONS.

ALL MEMBERS OF THE GROUP ARE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS. THE ’’STROLLING STRINGS” APPROACH OF THE GROUP IS HIGHLY PERSONALISED AS THE PLAYERS STAY ADJACENT TO THE AUDIENCE AS THEY PERFORM.

OVER THE YEARS, THE GROUP HAS PERFORMED FOR NUMEROUS DIGNITARIES, INCLUDING MRS NANCY REAGAN, WIFE OF PRESIDENT REAGAN. IT MADE A CONCERT TOUR OF THE NETHERLANDS, BELGIUM, LUXEMBOURG, WEST GERMANY, SWITZERLAND AND ENGLAND IN JULY.

THE GROUP IS EXPECTED TO ARRIVE ON WEDNESDAY AND TO GIVE ITS DEBUT PERFORMANCE AT A STUDENT CONCERT AT YING WAH COLLEGE THE FOLLOWING DAY.

ON SATURDAY, A COMMUNITY CONCERT FEATURING THE GOLDEN STRINGS WILL BE HELD AT THE NEW WORLD CENTRE IN TSIM SHA TSUI, BEGINNING AT 2 PM.

TICKETS FOR THE "JING YING” CONCERT, AT $10 EACH, ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT ALL URBTIX OUTLETS. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 5-283257 AND 3-7962896.

0 ------- /8

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1987

- 8 -

NEW IDENTITY CARDS EOR MEN BORN IN 1961/62

*****

« MEN BORN IN 1961 AND 1962 ARE REQUIRED TO APPLY FOR NEW IDENTITY CARDS BETWEEN NOVEMBER 30 AND JANUARY 16.

MEN OF THE ABOVE AGE GROUP SHOULD CALL AT ANY ONE OF THE EIGHT NEW ID CARD ISSUE OFFICES DURING THIS PERIOD.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SAID: ’’THESE NEW ID CARD ISSUE OFFICES ARE OPEN FROM 8 AM TO 9.30 PM DAILY, EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.

"IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT THE ISSUE OFFICES WILL BE VERY CROWDED IN THE EVENINGS. TO AVOID HAVING TO QUEUE UP AT THE ISSUE OFFICES, APPLICANTS ARE ADVISED TO GO TO THESE OFFICES IN THE MORNINGS AND THE AFTERNOONS.”

f APPLICANTS MAY USE THE PHONE-IN SERVICE TO ARRANGE FOR AN APPOINTMENT BY CALLING THE OFFICE OF THEIR CHOICE.

THE ADDRESSES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF THE ISSUE OFFICES ARE AS FOLLOWS:

HONG KONG BASEMENT, 151 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI.

TEL. NO. 5-747070

EAST KOWLOON • AMOY GARDEN PLAZA, SECOND FLOOR, 77 NGAU TAU KOK ROAD. TFL. NO. 3-7553679

WEST KOWLOON • CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES, SECOND FLOOR, 393 CANTON ROAD, YAU MA TEI. TEL. NO. 3-7232424

TSUEN WAN EAST \SIA COMMERCIAL CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, 29-37 TSUEN FU STREET. TEL. NO. 0-4981259

* SHA TIN • SHA TIN CENTRE, PODIUM FLOOR, 2-16 WANG POK STREET. TEL. NO. 0-6059108

f YUEN LONG • HOP YICK CENTRE, SECOND FLOOR, 31 HOP YICK ROAD. TEL. NO. 0-793291

t TUEN MUN • CHI LOK COMMERCIAL CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, CHI LOK FA YUEN. TEL. NO. 0-4580862

) SHEUNG SHUI TSUEN WO TAI LAU, GROUND FLOOR, 82-84 SAN FUNG AVENUE, SHEK WU HUI. TEL. NO. 0-927155

THE SPOKESMAN REITERATED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.

- - 0 - -

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1987

9 -

PRESS CONFERENCE ON CHILD ABUSE FORUM *****

THE FIRST EVER MULTI-DISCIPLINARY CONFERENCE ON CHILD ABUSE IN HONG KONG WILL BE HELD BETWEEN DECEMBER 14 AND 18 TO PROVIDE A FORUM FOR EXCHANGE OF EXPERIENCE BETWEEN VARIOUS PROFESSIONS IN THE IDENTIFICATION OF SUCH ABUSE AND IN HELPING THE CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES.

IT IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE (HKCSS) AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT IN CO-OPERATION WITH THE VOLUNTARY AGENCY. AGAINST CHILD ABUSE. LADY WILSON IS THE PATRON. T.

DETAILS OF THE FUNCTION WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD IN CENTRAL ON TUESDAY (DECEMBER 1).

ATTENDING WILL BE THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE FOR THE MULTI-DISCIPLINARY CONFERENCE, MR THOMAS MULVEY; THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (AGENCY SERVICES) OF HKCSS, MISS KAY KU; AND THE CHAIRPERSON OF AGAINST CHILD ABUSE, MRS JANIE THOMAS.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE MULTI-DISCIPLINARY CONFERENCE ON CHILD ABUSE WHICH WILL BE HELD IN THE GIS PRESS CONFERENCE ROOM, FIFTH FLOOR, BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, ON TUESDAY, BEGINNING AT 2.30 PM.

-------Q----------

QUARTERS FOR FIRE SERVICES PERSONNEL * * *

A BLOCK OF MARRIED QUARTERS FOR RANK AND FILE PERSONNEL OF THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS TO BE BUILT IN CHAI WAN.

IT WILL BE A 25-STOREY BLOCK LOCATED AT THE JUNCTION OF WAN TSUI ROAD AND SUI MAN ROAD, PROVIDING A TOTAL OF 144 UNITS.

WORK IS EXPECTED TO START IN FEBRUARY AND BE COMPLETED IN DECEMBER, 1989.

/THE architectural

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 19&7

10 -

THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS BY NOON ON DECEMBER 31.

MEANWHILE, THE DEPARTMENT HAS AWARDED A $540,000 CONTRACT FOR SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF SIX AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY GENERATORS FOR THE JUNK BAY, YUEN LONG AND TAJ PO EAST FIRE STATIONS, AND THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT’S RANK AND FILE MARRIED QUARTERS TN TUEN MUN.

THE INSTALLATION WORK IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED BY SEPTEMBER NEXT YEAR.

------o-------

STREET IN WANG TAU HOM TEMPORARILY CLOSED * * * * *

TO FACILITATE THE RECONSTRUCTION OF FU MEI STREET IN WANG TAU HOM, THE EASTBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF FU MEI STREET BETWEEN FU YUE STREET AND FUNG MO STREET WILL BE CLOSED FROM 10 AM ON WEDNESDAY (DECEMBER 2) FOR ABOUT TWO-AND-A-HALF MONTHS.

DURING THE CLOSURE, THE FOLLOWING TRAFFIC DIVERSIONS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED:

* VEHICLES ON JUNCTION ROAD EASTBOUND HEADING FOR FUNG MO STREET WILL HAVE TO PROCEED THEIR WAYS ALONG JUNCTION ROAD BEFORE TURNING TO HENG LAM STREET.

* EASTBOUNI) TRAFFIC ON FU MEI STREET HEADING FOR FU MEI

STREET MARKET WILL BE DIVERTED VIA FU YUE STREET, WANG TAU

HOM NORTH ROAD AND WANG TAU HOM EAST ROAD.

* KMB ROUTE NOS. 2F AND 3C ON THEIR JOURNEYS TO TZE WAN SHAN

WILL HAVE TO OPERATE VIA JUNCTION ROAD, WANG TAU HOM EAST

ROAD, WANG TAU HOM SOUTH ROAD, LOK FU BUS TERMINUS, FU MEI STREET EAST, HENG LAM STREET AND FUNG MO STREET. A TEMPORARY BUS STOP FOR THESE TWO ROUTES WILL BE PROVIDED AT LOK FU BUS TERMINUS.

* KMB ROUTE NOS. 7M AND 1 IC WILL HAVE TO TRAVEL VIA WANG TAU HOM EAST ROAD, FU MEI STREET EAST, HENG LAM STREET AND FUNG MO STREET ON THEIR JOURNEYS TO CHUK YUEN ESTATE.

•

♦ GREEN MINIBUS ROUTE NO. 53M ON ITS WAY TO TIN MA COURT WILL BE DIVERTED VIA FU KEUNG STREET, WAN TAU HOM CENTRAL •ROAD, WAN TAU HOM EAST ROAD, FU MEI STREET EAST, HENG LAM STREET AND FUNG MO STREET.

-------0----------

/11

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1987

URBAN COUNCIL COMPLEX TO BE BUILT IN YAU MA TEI *****

AN URBAN COUNCIL COMPLEX IS TO BE BUILT IN YAU MA TEI TO SERVE LOCAL RESIDENTS.

THE COMPLEX WILL BE A NINE-STOREY BUILDING COVERING A SITE AREA OF ABOUT 3,000 SQUARE METRES AT KWUN CHUNG STREET.

FACILITIES WILL INCLUDE A HALF BASEMENT CARPARK, TWO STOREYS OF MARKET, ONE STOREY COOKED FOOD CENTRE, TWO STOREYS OF OFFICES, TWO STOREYS OF SQUASH COURTS AND AN INDOOR GAMES HALL ON TOP.

WORK IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN JANUARY AND BE COMPLETED IN OCTOBER, 1990.

TENDERS FOR THE PROJECT ARE BEING INVITED BY THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT. THE DEADLINE IS NOON ON DECEMBER 18.

- - 0 - -

SAI KUNG CAR PARK SUSPENDED * * * *

TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE ACCESS ROAD LEADING TO THE PUBLIC DUMP SITE AT HANG HAU, SAI KUNG, THE PUBLIC CAR PARK ON HANG HAU ROAD ADJACENT TO THE TERMINUS OF KMB ROUTE NO. 9IM WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM TUESDAY (DECEMBER 1).

THE MEASURE WILL BE IN FORCE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

- - 0 - -

DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN

ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

CONTENTS PAGE NO.

GOVERNOR LEAVES FOR SIX-DAY CHINA VISIT .................... 1

FLEXIBLE APPROACH IN PLANNING CHILDREN'S hND YOUTH CENTRES . 2

EPCCM URGES SPEEDY ACTION ON LIVESTOCK WASTE ............... 3

MORE RESOURCES FOR INWARD INVESTMENT PROMOTION ............. 5

HEARING CONSERVATION PROGRAMME FOR WORKERS IN HIGH RISK INDUSTRIES .................................................... 6

TEACHERS DISCUSS ANTI-DRUG EDUCATION ....................... 7

SAFETY OFFICER LnW BECOMES EFFECTIVE ....................... 9

BLITZ OPERATION AGAINST ILLEGAL DISPLAY OF POSTERS ......... 9

EDUCATION BRIEFING FOR URBhN DB MEMBERS .................... 10

wan chai launches 'care for the old1 campaign .............. 11

WARNING SIGNS AGAINST PICKPOCKETS PUT UP IN YAU MA TEI ..... 12

DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS POLLUTION OF SHING MUN RIVER ....... 12

SAI KUNG EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES TO BE DISCUSSED ............ 13

SECONDARY SCHOOL TRAMPOLINING COMPETITION .................. 13

NEW ADDRESS FOR SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE ................ 14

SUBSIDISED TRAINING COURSE FOR TOURISM PERSONNEL ........... 14

sham shut po to get better drainage Facilities ............. 15

TENDERS INVITED FOR WATER WORKS PROJECTS ................... 15

WINNERS OF YOUNG MUSICIANS' kWhRDS FOR 1987..........-...... 16

TEMPORARY ROaD CLOSURE AT aDMIRALTY ........................ 18

WAN CHAI TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE ............................ 18

water storage figure.......................................

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

GOVERNOR LEAVES FOR SIX-DAY CHINA VISIT ♦ * * ♦ *

THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, LEFT TODAY (MONDAY) FOR A SIX-DAY VISIT IN CHINA WHERE HE WILL OPEN THE TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL OFFICE IN SHANGHAI AND MEET SENIOR CHINESE OFFICIALS IN PEKING.

SPEAKING TO REPORTERS BEFORE HIS DEPARTURE BY TRAIN AT THE KCR KOWLOON STATION, SIR DAVID SAID THE MAIN PURPOSE OF HIS VISIT TO CHINA WAS TO OPEN THE TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL OFFICE IN SHANGHAI AND TO ATTEND THE OPENING SESSION OF THE ECONOMIC AND TRADE CO-OPERATION SEMINAR THERE.

’’THE OPENING OF THE SECOND TDC OFFICE SYMBOLISES THE GREAT INCREASE IN ECONOMIC RELATIONS BETWEEN CHINA AND HONG KONG.

’’TRADE BETWEEN US AND CHINA HAS GONE UP BY SOME 12 TIMES IN THE LAST EIGHT YEARS AND BY THE REMARKABLE FIGURE OF 50 PER CENT IN THE FIRST THREE QUARTERS OF THIS YEAR.

’’CHINA IS NOW OUR LARGEST TRADING PARTNER AND THIS YEAR, IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS, WE HAVE OVERTAKEN JAPAN AS CHINA’S MAJOR TRADING PARTNER,” SIR DAVID SAID.

ACCOMPANIED BY LADY WILSON, THE POLITICAL ADVISER, MR DICK CLIFT, AND THE GOVERNOR’S PRIVATE SECRETARY, MR RICHARD HOARE, SIR DAVID WILL FIRST VISIT GUANGZHOU BEFORE GOING ON TO SHANGHAI AND THEN PEKING.

SIR DAVID SAID HE WAS TAKING THE OPPORTUNITY TO VISIT GUANGZHOU FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE BECOMING GOVERNOR BECAUSE GUANGDONG PLAYED A MAJOR PART IN THE INCREASED ECONOMIC RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA.

SIR DAVID WILL CALL ON THE GOVERNOR OF GUANGDONG TO DISCUSS ECONOMIC RELATIONS BETWEEN HONG KONG AND GUANGDONG PROVINCE.

THE GOVERNOR SAID THAT WHILE IN PEKING HE WOULD TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO CONTINUE THE INFORMAL DISCUSSIONS THAT HE HAD EARLIER IN THE YEAR WITH SENIOR CHINESE OFFICIALS AND CHINESE LEADERS DEALING WITH HONG KONG AFFAIRS.

”1 EXPECT TO COVER THE WHOLE RANGE OF ISSUES OF MUTUAL INTEREST BETWEEN US,” HE SAID.

SIR DAVID SAID THE DISCUSSIONS WOULD BE AN OCCASION TO BRING CHINESE LEADERS UP TO DATE ON WHAT HAD BEEN HAPPENING TO THE ECONOMY IN HONG KONG AS WELL AS OTHER DEVELOPMENTS.

"IT IS NOT AN OCCASION FOR TAKING DECISIONS,” SIR DAVID SAID.

SEEING THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON OFF AT THE RAILWAY STATION WERE THE CHIEF SECRETARY, MR DAVID FORD; THE SENIOR MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, SIR S. Y. CHUNG; THE SENIOR MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MISS LYDIA DUNN; AND VICE-DIRECTOR OF THE NEW CHINA NEWS AGENCY, MR QIAO ZHONGHUA1.

- - 0 - -

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

FLEXIBLE APPROACH IN PLANNING CHILDREN’S AND YOUTH CENTRES

» » » » ♦

A MORE FLEXIBLE APPROACH SHOULD BE ADOPTED IN ASSESSING THE LEVEL OF PROVISION OF CHILDREN’S AND YOUTH CENTRES, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT SUCH FACTORS AS POPULATION CONCENTRATION, DEMOGRAPHIC MAKE-UP AND GEOGRAPHICAL SPREAD OF THE AREA.

THIS APPROACH WAS ENDORSED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE ADVISORY COMMITTEE (SWAC) AT ITS MEETING TODAY (MONDAY).

THE EXISTING PLANNING RATIO OF ONE CHILDREN’S AND YOUTH CENTRE TO EVERY 20,000 GENERAL POPULATION WAS DETERMINED IN 1973.

IN THE LIGHT OF CHANGED CIRCUMSTANCES, THE COMMITTEE AGREED THAT THIS RATIO BE REVISED TO ONE CHILDREN’S AND YOUTH CENTRE FOR EVERY 20,000 TO 30,000 GENERAL POPULATION.

THE CHANGED CIRCUMSTANCES INCLUDE THE PROJECTED DECREASE IN YOUTH POPULATION; THE INCREASE IN OPPORTUNITIES FOR RECREATIONAL SERVICES PROVIDED BY OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR AND NEW PATTERN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF POPULATION CONCENTRATION.

IT WAS ALSO AGREED THAT CONSIDERATION BE GIVEN TO SETTING UP A CHILDREN’S AND YOUTH CENTRE FOR A NEIGHBOURHOOD OF 15,000 IN SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE THE POCKET OF POPULATION IS GEOGRAPHICALLY ISOLATED AND THAT MINI-CENTRES BE SET UP IN THE REMOTE RURAL AREAS.

WHILE ACCEPTING THE MORE FLEXIBLE APPROACH TO PLANNING, THE COMMITTEE ALSO SAW THE NEED FOR IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF CENTRES AND THAT THERE WAS A CLOSE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THIS SERVICE AND FAMILY SERVICE.

IT ALSO BELIEVED THAT THERE WAS A NEED FOR BETTER CO-ORDINATION WITH OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND ORGANISATIONS IN THE PROVISION OF SERVICES FOR YOUTH AND, IN THIS RESPECT, THE COMMITTEE EXPRESSED THE WISH TO BE KEPT POSTED ON THE DELIBERATIONS OF THE CENTRAL COMMITTEE ON YOUTH.

THE COMMITTEE FURTHER SUGGESTED THAT CONSIDERATION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THE POSSIBILITY OF MAKING CHILDREN’S AND YOUTH CENTRES AVAILABLE FOR USE IN THE MORNING BY YOUNG HOUSEWIVES AND THEIR CHILDREN.

ALSO DISCUSSED AT TODAY’S MEETING WAS THE OUTCOME OF THE CONSULTATION BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT WITH THE VOLUNTARY AGENCIES ON THE PROPOSED FORMULA FOR DETERMINING THE LEVEL OF SUBVENTION FOR CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION AND THE PROPOSED MODIFICATIONS TO THE ORIGINAL FORMULA ARISING THEREFROM.

/IT WAS .......

MONDAY, NOVEMBER JO, 1987

IT WAS AGREEED AT THE SWAC MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 28 THAT THE FORMULA SHOULD MAKE PROVISION FOR EACH OF THE THREE COMPONENT PARTS OF CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION, NAMELY CO-ORDINATION AND PLANNING OF SERVICES; FINANCIAL CONTROL AND ACCOUNTING; AND GENERAL ADMINISTRATION, INCLUDING PERSONNEL MATTERS.

AS A RESULT OF THE CONSULTATION EXERCISE, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT PROPOSED, AND THE COMMITTEE ENDORSED THE PROPOSAL, THAT ACCOUNTING STAFF WOULD BE PROVIDED BY POST AT A LEVEL EQUIVALENT TO 1.4 PER CENT OF THE RECOGNISED EXPENDITURE OF AN AGENCY.

IT WAS ALSO ACCEPTED THAT THE STAFFING PROVISION FOR GENERAL ADMINISTRATION SHOULD BE IMPROVED AND THAT ONE CO-ORDINATOR WOULD BE PROVIDED FOR AN AGENCY WITH THREE OR MORE SUPERVISORS.

THE COMMITTEE FURTHER AGREED THAT NURSERIES SHOULD BE PROVIDED WITH CHILD CARE CO-ORDINATORS AND GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF ON THE SAME BASIS AS FOR OTHER AGENCIES AND THAT THEY SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO INCLUDE IN THEIR FEE CALCULATION A PROVISION FOR ACCOUNTING SERVICE.

AS FOR THE METHOD OF PAYMENT OF SUBVENTION FOR CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION, THE COMMITTEE AGREED THAT FURTHER CONSULTATION BE CONDUCTED WITH THE VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.

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EPCOM URGES SPEEDY ACTION ON LIVESTOCK WASTE

* » » »

MEMBERS OF THE ENVIROMENTAL POLLUTION ADVISORY COMMITTEE (EPCOM) TODAY (MONDAY) EXPRESSED THEIR STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION BY JUNE 1988 OF THE AGRICULTURAL WASTE CONTROL SCHEME SO THAT A POTENTIAL ENVIROMENTAL DISASTER IN TOLO HARBOUR CAN BE AVERTED.

MEMBERS WERE ALSO BRIEFED ON MEASURES BEING TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM OF ABANDONED VEHICLES, OLD TYRES AND DISCARDED HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES.

AT THE MEETING, MEMBERS NOTED THAT DISTRICT LANDS OFFICERS (DLO’S) ARE RESPONSIBLE UNDER THE CROWN LAND ORDINANCE FOR ENSURING THAT GOVERNMENT LAND IS NOT ILLEGALLY OCCUPIED.

RECENT STATISTICS SHOWED THAT THERE APPEARED TO BE NO INCREASING TREND CONCERNING ABANDONED VEHICLES.

/OF THE

MONDAY, NOVEMBER JO, 1987

OF THE 823 ABANDONED VEHICLES DISCOVERED BY THE DLO’S IN 1986, 605 WERE REMOVED BY OWNERS UPON SERVING OF NOTICES, AND THE REMAINDER WERE REFERRED TO THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT FOR DISPOSAL. FIGURES FOR THE FIRST 10 MONTHS OF THIS YEAR SHOW A SIMILAR PERCENTAGE (OVER 80 PER CENT) OF VOLUNTARY REMOVAL.

AS FOR DISCARDED HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES, THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAVE THEIR REGULAR CLEANING SERVICE AND SPECIAL OPERATIONS ARE MOUNTED WHERE SITUATIONS WARRANT. BUILDING DEBRIS ON MAJOR HIGHWAYS IS CLEANED UP BY THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT ON A REGULAR BASIS. POSITIVE STEPS HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO DISCOURAGE ILLEGAL DUMPING BY HEIGHTENING VIGILANCE AND BY INCREASING PENALTIES.

MEMBERS FELT, HOWEVER THAT EXISTING LEGISLATION NEEDS TO BE STRENGTHENED AND NEW LEGISLATION ENACTED BEFORE EFFECTIVE ENFORCEMENT CAN BEGIN TO CONTAIN AND REDUCE THE SCALE OF THE PRESENT PROBLEM.

MEMBERS LEARNT THAT THE MONITORING PROGRAMME FOR POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCB'S) IN FOOD IS BEING CARRIED OUT BY THE FOOD SURVEILLANCE SECTION OF THE HYGIENE DIVISION IN THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH.

THE PROGRAMME IS DESIGNED TO ALLOW THE GOVERNMENT TO DETECT ANY TRENDS OF PCB CONTAMINATION OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT AND TO ASSESS THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE FORTHCOMING REGULATORY CONTROL OF PCB’S.

ON AVERAGE, 16 SAMPLES OF FISH, SHELLFISH (CLAM, OYSTER, SCALLOP, MUSSEL) AND SOMETIMES SHRIMP AND CRAB ARE COLLECTED MONTHLY FROM MARKETS AND SENT TO THE GOVERNMENT LABORATORY FOR ANALYSIS. SAMPLES COLLECTED OVER THE LAST YEAR INDICATED THAT, WITH A DETECTION LIMIT OF 10 PARTS PER BILLION, PCB’S WERE UNDETECTED IN MOST SAMPLES EXCEPT A FEW IN THE RANGE OF 10 TO 30 PARTS PER BILLION.

EPCOM MEMBERS WERE ALSO INFORMED THAT PREPARATORY WORKFORTHE 1988 WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY WAS UNDERWAY AND THAT A NEW DIVISION - THE ENVIRONMENT DIVISION - HAS BEEN FORMED WITHIN THE HONG KONG

INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS.

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

- 5 -

MORE RESOURCES FOR INWARD INVESTMENT PROMOTION

* » t *

INWARD INVESTMENT PROMOTION, WITH ITS EMPHASIS ON FACILITATIN THE TRANSFER OF USEFUL TECHNOLOGY TO HONG KONG, IS AN ACTIVITY THA'i WILL CONTINUE TO HELP THE MANUFACTURING COMMUNITY TO UPGRADE THF EFFICIENCY AND QUALITY OF ITS OUTPUT, THE DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, Ml K.Y. YEUNG, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

SPEAKING AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE ASSOCIATION OF CHAIRMEN OF THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS, MR YEUNG SAID THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT INTENDED TO DEVOTE MORE RESOURCES IN 1988 TO ITS INWARD INVESTMENT PROMOTION PROGRAMME, TO ATTRACT EVEN MORE OVERSEAS INVESTMENT IN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES.

HE SAID THE DEPARTMENT WAS DEVELOPING AN IMPROVED TARGETTING SYSTEM TO IDENTIFY POTENTIAL INVESTORS OVERSEAS AND WAS PREPARING MORE UP-TO-DATE AND BETTER RESEARCH PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL FOR USE IN DISCUSSIONS WITH POTENTIAL INVESTORS.

"WHILE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF INWARD INVESTMENT PROMOTION ACTIVITY IS SECURED BY HONG KONG’S EXCELLENT PHYSICAL AND ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE, THERE IS INCREASING EVIDENCE THAT OVERSEAS BUSINESSES WHO ARE ATTRACTED BY OUR INFRASTRUCTURE ADDITIONALLY REQUIRE THE SUPPORT THAT OTHER SERVICES PROVIDE BEFORE THEY WOULD BE PREPARED TO COME TO HONG KONG WITH THEIR TECHNOLOGIES," HE SAID.

"THUS THE DEPARTMENT’S INWARD INVESTMENT PROMOTION PROGRAMME SERVES ALSO AS A USEFUL GAUGE FOR ASSESSING THE ADEQUACY OR OTHERWISE OF OTHER INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AND SUPPORT SERVICES.

"INSOFAR AS THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT IS CONCERNED, THE BEST AND MOST OBJECTIVE MEASURE OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ITS INWARD INVESTMEN' PROMOTION PROGRAMME LIES IN ITS ANNUAL SURVEYS OF OVERSEAS INVESTMEN IN HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES."

MR YEUNG SAID THE 1987 SURVEY, JUST PUBLISHED AND COVERING OVERSEAS INVESTMENT UP TO THE END OF 1986, SHOWED AN ENCOURAGING GROWTH IN BOTH THE QUANTITY AND THE QUALITY OF OVERSEAS INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG.

IN TERMS OF QUANTITY, THE TOTAL VALUE OF INVESTMENTS AT THE END OF 1986, AT NEARLY $20,000 MILLION, WAS 26 PER CENT HIGHER THAN AT THE END OF 1985.

"THE NET ACQUISITION OF FIXED ASSETS IN 1986 WAS $1,603 MILLION, UP BY 55 PER CENT ON THE 1985 FIGURE," HE SAID.

"IN TERMS OF QUALITY, NEARLY HALF OF THE 541 ESTABLISHMENTS IDENTIFIED IN THE SURVEY WERE JOINT VENTURES WITH LOCAL PARTNERS, A FORM OF CO-OPERATION WHICH PROVIDES A GOOD OPPORTUNITY FOR TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER."

/IN ORDER

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

6 -

IN ORDER TO ATTRACT OVERSEAS COMPANIES TO SET UP A MANUFACTURING OPERATION IN HONG KONG, MR YEUNG SAID THE DEPARTMENT PUBLICISED HONG KONG'S ATTRACTIONS AS AN OFFSHORE LOCATION, THROUGH ADVERTISING, MEDIA COVERAGE, SEMINARS AND SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS INVOLVING INDUSTRIALISTS AND SENIOR OFFICIALS.

"WE ALSO ESTABLISH CONTACTS, THROUGH DIRECT MAIL CAMPAIGNS, TRADE FAIRS, AND CONTACT WITH TRADE AND INDUSTRIAL ORGANISATIONS AND COMPANIES, AND WE CULTIVATE THOSE CONTACTS WHO SHOW INTEREST IN MANUFACTURING IN HONG KONG, AND GIVE THEM ADVICE AND ASSISTANCE,” HE SAID.

"IN THE CONTEXT OF TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER, THE DEPARTMENT'S 'ONE STOP UNIT' CAN HELP SERVICE FIRMS AND FACTORIES THAT ARE SUFFICIENTLY ADVANCED TO ABSORB THE TECHNOLOGIES THAT WE HAVE IDENTIFIED FROM AMONGST OVERSEAS COMPANIES, AND IT CAN AND DOES MATCH POTENTIAL JOINT-VENTURE PARTNERS."

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HEARING CONSERVATION PROGRAMME FOR WORKERS IN HIGH RISK INDUSTRIES

* ♦ * ♦

A YEAR-LONG CAMPAIGN ON HEARING CONSERVATION FOR WORKERS IN SIX HIGH RISK OCCUPATIONS WILL BE LAUNCHED NEXT MONTH.

JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF TRADE UNIONS (FTU), THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH UNIT OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY’S DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY MEDICINE AND THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, THE PROJECT WILL INVOLVE MEASUREMENT OF HEARING ACUITY OF WORKERS AND SURVEYS OF NOISE LEVELS IN THEIR WORKPLACES.

ANNOUNCING DETAILS OF THE CAMPAIGN AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (MONDAY), ONE OF THE SPEAKERS, THE CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT MR YIP YUK-LUN, SAID IT WAS A WORLD-WIDE PHENOMENON THAT WORKERS HAD NOT FULLY APPRECIATED THE NEED FOR HEARING PROTECTORS, ALTHOUGH IT WAS RELATIVELY EASY AND INEXPENSIVE FOR EMPLOYERS TO PROVIDE SUCH PROTECTORS AS REQUIRED BY LAW.

"THERE IS INDEED A DEFINITE NEED FOR A WELL ORGANISED HEARING CONSERVATION PROGRAMME TO MAKE PEOPLE AWARE OF THE TYPE OF HARM EXCESSIVE NOISE CAN DO TO HEARING AND THE FACT THAT THEY CAN ACTUALLY BECOME DEAF AS A RESULT OF PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO EXCESSIVE NOISE," HE SAID.

/’’IN THIS

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

"IN THIS CONNECTION, EMPLOYERS’ CO-OPERATION AND INVOLVEMENT ARE MOST ESSENTIAL. WITHOUT THEIR SUPPORT NO CAMPAIGN OR PROGRAMME HOWEVER WELL ORGANISED CAN TAKE OFF."

MR YIP CALLED ON ALL EMPLOYERS TO DO THEIR BEST TO MAKE THEIR WORKERS UNDERSTAND AND APPRECIATE THE HAZARD CAUSED BY EXCESSIVE NOISE AND TO PROVIDE THE NECESSARY ARRANGEMENT TO EITHER REDUCE THE LEVEL OF NOISE IN THE WORK ENVIRONMENT OR PROVIDE THE APPROPRIATE HEARING PROTECTION EQUIPMENT FOR WORKERS.

ALSO SPEAKING AT THE CONFERENCE WERE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE FTU, MR CHENG YIU-TONG, AND THE HEAD OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY’S DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY MEDICINE, PROFESSOR STUART DONNAN.

THE COST OF THE PROJECT, ESTIMATED AT $200,000, IS FUNDED BY THE FTU.

DURING THE CAMPAIGN, AUDIOMETRIC TESTS WILL BE CARRIED OUT BY STAFF OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY’S OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH UNIT AMONG WORKERS IN THE SIX NOISE-PRONED INDUSTRIES, NAMELY ELECTRONICS, SHIPBUILDING/SHIP REPAIRING, PLASTICS, TEXTILES, METAL AND CONSTRUCTION.

SEVERE CASES OF HEARING LOSS DISCOVERED IN THE COURSE OF FACTORY VISITS WILL BE REFERRED TO THE PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL FOR ASSESSMENT.

THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ARRANGING APPROPRIATE INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS FOR THE PROJECT, CONDUCTING NOISE SURVEYS AND GIVING ADVICE AND SUGGESTIONS TO FACTORY PROPRIETORS TO REDUCE THE NOISE LEVELS IN THEIR WORKPLACES.

AT THE END OF THE CAMPAIGN, A REPORT WILL BE COMPILED AND FORWARDED TO THE RELEVANT ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS FOR REFERENCE.

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TEACHERS DISCUSS ANTI-DRUG EDUCATION

***** •

ANTI-DRUG EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS IS IMPORTANT, BUT IT NEED NOT NECESSARILY BE MADE A COMPULSORY SUBJECT, SCHOOL PRINCIPALS AND TEACHERS GENERALLY AGREED AT A SEMINAR TODAY (MONDAY) ON PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG ABUSE.

IT WAS SUGGESTED THAT ANTI-DRUG EDUCATION COULD BE INCORPORATED INTO SUCH SUBJECTS AS SOCIAL STUDIES AND ECONOMIC AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS.

/ALTERNATIVELY, IT .......

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

- 8 -

ALTERNATIVELY, IT WOULD BE INCORPORATED INTO THE CIVIC EDUCATION PROGRAMME.

THE TOPIC WAS DISCUSSED AT LENGTH AT THE SEMINAR ON PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG ABUSE ORGANISED FOR SCHOOL HEADS AND TEACHERS BY THE NARCOTICS DIVISION, GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, AND HELD AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS (ACAN), DR GERALD CHOA, ALSO URGED THOSE ATTENDING TO CONSIDER THE ROLE OF PARENTS/TEACHER ASSOCIATIONS IN PREVENTING DRUG ABUSE AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE.

HE POINTED OUT THAT THE MAIN OBJECTIVE OF THE SEMINAR WAS TO GATHER VIEWS AND CONSTRUCTIVE SUGGESTIONS FROM PROFESSIONALS IN THE FIELD AND TO USE THEM AS REFERENCE AND AS DIRECTIVES IN DEVISING FUTURE ANTI-NARCOTICS STRATEGIES.

DR CHOA EXPLAINED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD ACCEPTED RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY ACAN IN A BID TO CURB THE RECENT RISING TREND IN PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG ABUSE.

"IN FACT, THESE RECOMMENDATIONS INCLUDING A LARGE-SCALE SCHOOL SURVEY, THE SETTING-UP OF THE COUNSELLING CENTRE FOR PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG ABUSERS AND STEPPED-UP PUBLICITY ON THE HARMFUL EFFECTS OF THESE DRUGS ARE CURRENTLY BEING CARRIED OUT IN FULL FORCE,” HE SAID.

MORE THAN 300 SCHOOL PRINCIPALS, STUDENT COUNSELLORS AND TEACHERS FROM SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN THE TERRITORY ATTENDED THE SEMINAR, DURING WHICH A NEW SET OF EDUCATIONAL SLIDES ON PSYCHOTROPIC SUBSTANCES WAS INTRODUCED AND DISTRIBUTED BY STAFF OF THE NARCOTICS DIVISION.

THE NEW SET OF SLIDES WAS PRODUCED TO SUPPLEMENT THE EXISTING MATERIAL IN THE SCHOOL DRUG EDUCATION TEACHING KITS DISTRIBUTED LAST YEAR.

SPEAKERS IN THE SEMINAR WERE THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MRS AGNES ALLCOCK; HEAD OF DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHIATRY OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, PROFESSOR C.N. CHEN; SENIOR INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, MISS W.N. BAU; CHIEF STAFF INSPECTOR OF THE POLICE NARCOTICS BUREAU, MR L.C. TANG; AND CHAIRMEN AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE DISTRICT SCHOOL LIAISON COMMITTEES.

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/9........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

- 9 -

SAFETY OFFICER LAW BECOMES EFFECTIVE » » » * «

THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) REMINDED BUILDING CONTRACTORS THAT THE PROVISIONS GOVERNING THE COMPULSORY EMPLOYMENT OF SAFETY OFFICERS AND SAFETY SUPERVISORS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WOULD COME INTO EFFECT TOMORROW.

UNDER THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (SAFETY OFFICERS AND SAFETY SUPERVISORS) REGULATIONS, A PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR OR SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO EMPLOY ONE REGISTERED SAFETY OFFICER FULL-TIME IF HE EMPLOYS 200 OR MORE PEOPLE ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE OR SITES, AND TO EMPLOY ONE SAFETY SUPERVISOR ON EACH CONSTRUCTION SITE ON WHICH HE EMPLOYS 20 OR MORE WORKERS.

"A PROPRIETOR WHO FAILS TO EMPLOY A SAFETY OFFICER IS LIABLE TO A FINE OF $20,000," A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.

"IF HE FAILS TO EMPLOY A SAFETY SUPERVISOR OR CONTRAVENES OTHER PROVISIONS OF THE REGULATIONS, HE IS LIABLE TO A FINE OF $10,000."

THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAD PUBLISHED A GUIDE FOR THE USE OF EMPLOYERS AND SAFETY OFFICERS EXPLAINING THE REGULATIONS AND HOW THEY SHOULD BE APPLIED.

COPIES OF THIS GUIDE ARE AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE FROM ALL BRANCH OFFICES OF THE DEPARTMENT’S FACTORY INSPECTORATE DEVISION.

-------o----------

BLITZ OPERATION AGAINST ILLEGAL DISPLAY OF POSTERS

» » * « »

MORE THAN 15 SUMMONSES HAD BEEN ISSUED DURING A TWO-DAY BLITZ OPERATION AGAINST ILLEGAL DISPLAY OF POSTERS ON WALLS OF PRIVATE BUILDINGS AND AT PUBLIC PLACES.

THE COMMON PRACTICE OF DISPLAYING POSTERS OR SIMILAR FORM OF PUBLICITY MATERIALS AT PRIVATE OR PUBLIC PLACES DURING WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS HAD CREATED ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS.

THE BLITZ OPERATION, CARRIED OUT BY THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT LAST SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, AIMED TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM.

/ACCORDING TO .......

MONDAY, NOVEMBER JO, 1987

ACCORDING TO A SPOKESMAN FOR THE JOINT URBAN COUNCIL/REGIONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE, THE DISPLAY OF PUBLICITY MATERIALS AT PRIVATE PLACES WITHOUT THE OWNERS' CONSENT OR AT PUBLIC PLACES WITHOUT THE GOVERNMENT’S AUTHORITY WAS AN OFFENCE UNDER THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND MUNICIPAL SERVICES ORDINANCE. OFFENDERS WILL BE LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $2,000.

THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT SIMILAR OPERATIONS WOULD BE CONDUCTED IN THE FUTURE. HE HOPED THAT THE PUBLIC, ESPECIALLY THE ADVERTISED COMPANIES CONCERNED, WOULD EXERCISE SELF-DISCIPLINE TO HELP KEEP THF ENVIRONMENT CLEAN.

MEANWHILE, THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT CARRIED OUT A BLITZ OPERATION AGAINST LITTERING BY FILIPINA MAIDS IN CENTRAL ON SUNDAY AND A TOTAL OF 26 SUMMONSES WERE ISSUED.

A SPOKESMAN FOR THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT SAID THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME THE DEPARTMENT CONDUCTED SUCH AN OPERATION.

"THE CENTRAL DISTRICT HAS BECOME A POPULAR MEETING AREA FOR FILIPINA MAIDS DURING HOLIDAYS, AND THE DEPARTMENT HAS TO SPEND A LOT OF EFFORT IN CLEARING THE RUBBISH LEFT BEHIND,” HE SAID.

"MOREOVER, WE HAVE RECEIVED A NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS FROM THE PUBLIC REGARDING THE LITTERING PROBLEM CAUSED BY FILIPINA MAIDS IN CENTRAL,” HE ADDED.

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EDUCATION BRIEFING FOR URBAN DB MEMBERS

* ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

OFFICIALS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) MET MORE THAN 70 DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS IN THE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON REGIONS FOR DISCUSSIONS ON EDUCATIONAL MATTERS OF MUTUAL CONCERN.

THE MEETING, HELD AT THE OLD LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER IN THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, BEGAN WITH A BRIEFING SESSION CHAIRED BY THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR DAVID LAN.

THIS SESSION INCLUDED A TALK BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (BUILDING AND SYSTEMS), MR S. II. HSU, ON THE SCHOOL BUILDING PROGRAMME, THE REPROVISIONING OF URBAN SCHOOLS WITH SUB-STANDARD PREMISES TO THE NEW TOWNS, AND CONVERSION WORK TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL TEACHING SPACI IN SCHOOLS.

/THERE WAS

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

THERE WAS ALSO A TALK ON THE EXPULSION OF STUDENTS \ND FLOATING CLASSES BY.THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR Ob EDUCATION (SCHOOLS), MR S. W. WONG, \ND ON THE PROVISION OF SPECI AL EDI C ATION BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (SERVICES), MR LUCAS CHAN.

THE MEETING ENDED WITH \ QUESTION AND ANSWERS SESSION CHAIRED BY THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y. I. LI.

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WAN CHAI LAUNCHES ’CARE FOR THE OLD’ CAMPAIGN *****

A SERIES OF ACTIVITIES AIMED AT BRINGING JOY AND ENTERTAINMENT TO THE ELDERLY POPULATION IN WAN CHAI WAS LAUNCHED THIS (MONDAY) EVENING WITH THE OPENING OF THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT CARE FOR THE OLD CAMPAIGN AT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM.

ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT’S CARE FOR THE OLD CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE, THE ACTIVITIES WILL RUN UNTIL THE END OF JANUARY. THE PROGRAMME INCLUDES A CANTONESE OPERA NIGHT, A VISIT TO A HOME FOR THE ELDERLY, A CONCERT AND DIM SUM RECEPTION, AND A FEAST FOR THE ELDERLY.

MORE THAN 1,000 SENIOR RESIDENTS HAVE REGISTERED TO TAKE PART.

SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICER, MR ALLAN CHOW, SAID THE CAMPAIGN HAD BEEN HELD ANNUALLY SINCE 1969, AND HAD FOSTERED A SENSE OF RESPECT FOR ELDERLY PEOPLE.

SPONSORSHIPS AND SUPPORT FROM LOCAL BODIES AND COMMERCIAL ORGANISATIONS HAD NOT ONLY REFLECTED THE DISTRICT’S SUPPORT, BUT HELPED TO PROMOTE THE VIRTUE OF CARING FOR THE AGED, HE ADDED.

AFTER THE CEREMONY, THE AUDIENCE WAS TREATED TO A CANTONESE OPERA SHOW.

ALSO PRESENT AT THE CEREMONY WERE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CAMPAIGN, MR HSU CHUNG-CHI, AND FIRST VICE-CHAIRMAN, MR CHIU WAI-SHING.

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/12........

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30,.1987 t

12 -

WARNING SIGNS AGAINST PICKPOCKETS PUT UP TN YAU MA TEI

*****

SIGNBOARDS TO WARN PEDESTRIANS AGAINST PICKPOCKETS HAVE RECENTLY BEEN PUT UP AT EIGHT PICKPOCKETING BLACK SPOTS IN YAU MA TEI TO REMIND RESIDENTS TO KEEP A GOOD WATCH OVER PERSONAL BELONGINGS.

THE MEASURE IS PART OF THE FIGHT CRIME PROGRAMME ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT’S FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE FOR THE SECOND YEAR.

ACCORDING TO POLICE STATISTICS, MORE THAN 100 PICKPOCKET CASES HAVE OCCURRED AT THE EIGHT BLACK SPOTS IN THE PAST YEAR ENDING OCTOBER.

THE BLACK SPOTS ARE THE JUNCTION OF NATHAN ROAD AND CAMERON ROAD; JUNCTION OF NATHAN ROAD AND MODY ROAD; JUNCTION OF GRANVILLE ROAD AND CARNAVON ROAD; JUNCTION OF SALISBURY ROAD AND CANTON ROAD; JUNCTION OF JORDAN ROAD AND NATHAN ROAD; JUNCTION OF NATHAN ROAD AND WATERLOO ROAD; AND NEAR TWO SHOPPING CENTRES AT NATHAN ROAD AND DUNDAS STREET.

"WE HOPE THAT THE SIGNBOARDS, BEARING THE ’BEWARE OF PICKPOCKETS’ WARNING IN CHINESE, ENGLISH AND JAPANESE, WILL ALERT BOTH MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND TOURISTS TOWARDS GUARDING THEIR. PROPERTY," THE COMMITTEE ('HAIRMAN, MR JOHN WU, SAID.

"THE BLACK SPOTS WILL BE REGULARLY REVIEWED BY THE POLICE AND THE SIGNBOARDS WILL BE MOVED TO OTHER LOCATIONS WHERE NECESSARY,” HE ADDED.

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DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS POLLUTION OF SHING MUN RIVER * * * * *

THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD’S HEALTH, COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS THE POLLUTION PROBLEM IN ITS MEETING ON WEDNESDAY (DECEMBER 2).

EDUCATION AND WELFARE

SHING MUN RIVER AT

DB MEMBER MR WONG HONG-CHUNG WILL ASK THE PROTECTION DEPARTMENT WHETHER THE POLLUTION OF TOLO REACH A CRITICAL POINT NEXT YEAR AND ITS EFFECT ON THE OF SHING MUN RIVER.

ANOTHER DB MEMBER MR CHAN TO-YEUNG PROGRESS OF THE COMMUNITY CENTRE CONSTRUCTION COURT, SHING MUN EAST.

ENVIRONMENTAL

HARBOUR WILL

WATER QUALITY

THE

TIN

WILL ENQUIRE ABOUT

PROJECT NEAR YUE

/OTHER I TIMS

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

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OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE A PROGRESS REPORT ON THE SUI WO COURT YOUTH CENTRE, REPORTS BY THE WORKING GROUPS OF THE COMMITTEE AND THE EXPENDITURE NEEDS AND TENTATIVE EXPENDITURE CEILINGS FOR 1988-89.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD’S HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE COMMITTEE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY (DECEMBER 2) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM, SIXTH FLOOR, KCR HOUSE, SHA TIN STATION. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.

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SAI KUNG EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES TO BE DISCUSSED ♦ ♦ * ♦ *

MEMBERS OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE WILL MEET TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO DISCUSS EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES IN THE DISTRICT.

MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS APPLICATIONS FOR DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS AND THE WORK OF THE DISTRICT’S CIVIC EDUCATION PROMOTION COMMITTEE.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING TOMORROW IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD, SECOND FLOOR, SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT OFFICES, MAN NIN STREET, SAI KUNG TOWN. IT WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM.

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SECONDARY SCHOOL TRAMPOLINING COMPETITION * » t *

MORE THAN 150 ATHLETES FROM 15 SECONDARY SCHOOLS WILL TAKE PART IN THIS YEAR’S SECONDARY SCHOOL TRAMPOLINING COMPETITION AT THE SPORTS STADIUM OF THE DELIA MEMORIAL SCHOOL AT MEI FOO SUN CHUEN, KOWLOON ON WEDNESDAY (DECEMBER 2).

THE COMPETITION, JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, THE HONG KONG SCHOOLS SPORTS COUNCIL AND THE NEW TERRITORIES SCHOOLS SPORTS COUNCIL, WILL START AT 9 AM.

/THERE WILL

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

THERE WILL BE SIX GROUP COMPETITIONS FOR BOYS AND GIRLS.

AN URBAN COUNCILLOR, MR FAN KAM-PING, WILL PRESENT PRIZES TO WINNERS AT THE END OF THE COMPETITION AT ABOUT 5 PM ON THAT DAY.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT AT DELIA MEMORIAL SCHOOL AT GLEE PATH, MEI'FOO SUN CHUEN, KOWLOON.

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NEW ADDRESS FOR SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE

* * * * *

THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE HAS MOVED ITS OFFICE FROM THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES TO THE VICTORIA BARRACKS, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (MONDAY).

CORRESPONDENCE TO THE COMMITTEE SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY, SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE, 1ST FLOOR "0" BLOCK, VICTORIA BARRACKS, CENTRAL.

FOR ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT THE SECRETARIAT OF THE COMMITTEE ON 5-285137 OR 5-285354.

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SUBSIDISED TRAINING COURSE FOR TOURISM PERSONNEL

*****

A SUBSIDISED TRAINING COURSE ON "MANAGING PEOPLE PERFORMANCE" WILL BE OFFERED FOR TOURISM STAFF WITH SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES ON DECEMBER 17.

THE COURSE IS A JOINT EFFORT OF THE HOTEL, CATERING AND TOURISM TRAINING BOARD OF THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL AND THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY COUNCIL OF HONG KONG.

THIS ONE-DAY COURSE WILL EXAMINE TOPICS ON SYSTEM APPROACH TO PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION, TARGET SETTING AND PERFORMANCE STANDARD, JOB DESCRIPTION, AND PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL.

THE COURSE FEE IS $500. PARTICIPANTS WILL BE REPAID HALF OF THE FEE AND PRESENTED AN ATTENDANCE CERTIFICATE BY THE VTC UPON COMPLETION OF THE COURSE.

ENROLMENT CLOSES ON DECEMBER 10. ENQUIRIES MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE SECRETARY OF THE BOARD ON 5-8932341, EXT. 282.

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

SHAM SHI1 PO TO GET BETTI.I? DRAINAGE FAC fl. (TIES

STORMWATER AND SEWER WATER DRAINAGE SYSTEMS IN SHAM Sill I PO, KOWLOON, ARE TO BE IMPROVED TO MEET THE GROWING DEMAND FROM DEVELOPMENTS IN THE DISTRICT.

TENDERS FOR THE PROJECT \RE BEING INVITED BY THE ‘’IVII ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT.

WORK WILL INVOLVE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A TOTAL OF 900 METRES OF STORMWATER DRAINS IN KWONG LEE ROAD, FAT TSEL’NG STREET, TONKIN STREET AND PO ON ROAD. THIS WILL FORM PART OF A STORMWATER DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT TO COPE WITH THE STORMWATER RUN-OFI IN THF AREA.

ALSO INCLUDED IN THE PROJECT IS THE PROVISION OF JOO METRES OF SEWER WATER DRAINS IN PO ON ROAD AND NEAR LEI CHENG Uh SWIMMING POOI REST GARDEN.

WORK IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN NEXT MARCH AND BE COMPLETED IN II MONTHS.

THE PROJECT HAS BEEN DESIGNED BY THE DRAINAGE DIVISION AND CONSTRUCTION WORK WILL BE SI PERVISED BY THE (CONSTRUCTION) DIVISION OF THF DEPARTMENT.

(DESIGN) DRAINAGE

DEADLINE FOR THE SUBMISSION Ob TENDERS IS NOON ON DECEMBER 18.

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TENDERS INVITED FOR WATER WORKS PROJECTS

♦ » * I *

THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT IS TO BUILD A NEW CENTRALISED WORKSHOP IN CENTRAL KOWLOON AND LAY ABOUT 2,100 METRES OF WATER MAINS IN SHA TAU KOK TO IMPROVE THE EXISTING SUPPLY SYSTEM.

THE NEW WORKSHOP WILL BE LOCATED AT LUNG CHEUNG ROAD, ADJACENT TO THE BEACON HILI. INTERMEDIATE LEV EL FRESH WATER SERVICE RESERVOIR.

IT WILL CONSIST A MAIN WORKSHOP BUILDING, \ SEVEN-STOREY BUILDING AND AUXILIARY WORKSHOP BUILDINGS, HAVING A TOTAL GROSS FLOOR AREA OF 16,500 SQUARE METRES.

THE WORKSHOP IS DESIGNED TO BE A CENTRALISED MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL UNIT, REPLACING Illi- I A( II I I IES NOU PROVIDED BY VARIOUS DEPOTS OF THE DEPARTMENT.

CONTRUCTION WORK IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN MARI H AND TAKE ABOUT IB MONTHS TO COMPLETE.

TENDERS FOR THE PROJIA T ( LOSE ON JANUARY 8.

/THE FRESH

MONDAY, NOVEMBER JO, 1987

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THE FRESH WATER MAINS TO BE LAID ALONG SHA TAI KOK ROAD WILL RANGE FROM 150 TO 4 50 MILLIMETRES IN DIAMETER TO FORM PART OF A PROJECT TO INCREASE THE CAPAC1T1 OF THE EXISTING WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM SERVING SHA TAU KOK AND SURROUNDING VILLAGES.

WORK IS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN IN FEBRUARY AND BE COMPLETED WITHIN

NINE MONTHS.

THE DEADLINE FOR TENDERS IS NOON ON DECEMBER IB.

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WINNERS OF YOUNG MUSICIANS’ AWARDS FOR 1987

*****

THE 1987 HONG KONG YOUNG MUSICIANS’ AWARDS COMPETITION ENDED YESTERDAY (SUNDAY) AFTER TWO NIGHTS OF KEEN COMPETITION AMONG 12 TALENTED YOUNG COMPOSERS AND ENSEMBLE GROUPS.

THE CHINESE MUSIC FINAL WAS HELD ON SATURDAY, FOLLOWED BY THE WESTERN MUSIC FINAL LAST NIGHT. THE VENUE WAS THE CONCERT HALL, HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS.

THE AWARDS COMPETITION, NOW IN ITS SIXTH YEAR, IS PRESENTED JOINTLY BY THE MUSIC OFFICE, RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG (RTHK) AND THE COMPOSERS AND AUTHORS SOCIETY OF HONG KONG (CASH).

SPEAKING AT THE WESTERN MUSIC FINAL, THE COMMISSIONER FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR CLIVE OXLEY, SAID THE COMPETITION OFFERED A POSITIVE STIMULUS TO YOUNG COMPOSERS AND PERFORMERS IN DEVELOPMENT OF THEIR SKILLS.

"THE ORGANISERS ARE KEEN TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE THE INCENTIVES BUT IT IS UP TO OUR YOUNG MUSICIANS TO TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE AND WORK AT DEVELOPING THEIR SKILLS, BE IT IN COMPOSING OR IN PERFORMANCE," MR OXLEY ADDED.

THERE WERE FOUR CATEGORIES IN THE AWARDS : CHINESE COMPOSITION, CHINESE ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE, WESTERN COMPOSITION AND WESTERN ENSEMBLE PEFORMANCE. f;

THE WINNERS IN EACH CATEGORY RECEIVED CASH AWARDS OF $6,000 WHILE THE FIRST AND SECOND RUNNERS-UP RECEIVED $3,000 AND $1,000 RESPECTIVELY, AMOUNTING TO A TOTAL OF $10,000 AND ALL DONATED BY CASH.

/FULL RESULTS .......

MONDAY, NOVEMBER JO, 1987

FULL RESULTS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

CHINESE COMPOSITION

1, DANCING ON THE MOON BY CHAN MING-CHI; 2, A POET’S DREAM BY CHAN HING-YAN; 3, THE BRAVE MAN BY CHEUNG CHI-LEUNG.

CHINESE ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE

1, SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION BY CHAN KAM-BIU AND PARADE (PERFORMERS: CHEUNG SUET-FAN, CHAN CHEUK-TING, FUNG CHING-WAN, CHAN YEE-LING, LEUNG SUK-HAN, WONG SIU-TO, PAN YA-SZE, FAN HO-LOK, CHU SIU-WAI, LOO SZE-WANG, CHIN KWOK-WAI AND LAM CHIK-TUNG).

2, THE TIGER GNASHES ITS TEETH BY AN ZHI-SUN AND DRUM POEM BY LI ZHEN-GUI AND TAN DUN (PERFORMERS: CHAN KWOK-WAI, CHAU CHIN-TUNG, HUI CHI-HANG, KWONG WING-CHUNG, LAM CHIK-TUNG, TANG WING-HUNG AND WONG DICK-PONG).

3, A JOYFUL EVENING AND THREE VARIATIONS ON YANG CITY TUNE BOTH BY HU DENG-TIAO (PERFORMERS: KWONG WAI-KEI, WONG SIU-TO, LOO SZE-YUEN, CHAN SHUK-HAR, LI CHUNG-LOK AND FAN HO-LOK).

WESTERN COMPOSITION

1, AUTUMN MIST BY LAM KUN-WONG; 2, 3, "C" QUINTET BY HO SIU-WA.

BALLAD BY LEUNG BO-WAH;

WESTERN ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE

1, TRIO FOR PIANOFORTE, CLARINET AND CELLO IN B FLAT MAJOR, OP.11 BY BEETHOVEN AND TRIO FOR PIANOFORTE, CLARINET AND CELLO IN A MINOR, OP.114 BY BRAHMS (PERFORMERS: SUSAN CHAN, MAY WU AND ALEXANDRA LO).

2, BRASS QUINTET NO. 3 BY VICTOR EWALD AND BRASS QUINTET BY MALCOLM ARNOLD (PERFORMERS: CHAN TAM-SAN, CHEW HO-YIN AND PAK WING-FAI, CHONG PAK-FU AND YIP CHEUNG-HING).

3, TRIO FOR PIANOFORTE, CLARINET VIOLIN BY ARAM IL’YICH KHACHATURIAN AND SUITE FOR PIANOFORTE, CLARINET AND VIOLIN BY DARIUS MILHAUD (PERFORMERS: YUE TIN-KONG, MA WAI-KWAN AND IVY LO).

/18

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1987

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TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE AT ADMIRALTY

*****

TO FACILITATE THE REMOVAL OF A TEMPORARY FOOTBRIDGE, THE GROUND LEVEL PART OF COTTON TREE DRIVE BETWEEN DRAKE STREET AND QUEENSWAY WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC DAILY FROM 1.30 AM TO 6 AM FROM WEDNESDAY (DECEMBER 2) TO SATURDAY (DECEMBER 5).

THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF DRAKE STREET BETWEEN TAMAR STREET AND THE GROUND LEVEL PART OF COTTON TREE DRIVE WILL ALSO BE CLOSED AT THE SAME TIME. ,

DURING THE ROAD CLOSURE, VEHICLES ON WESTBOUND HARCOURT ROAD HEADING FOR QUEENSWAY WILL BE DIVERTED VIA THE COTTON TREE DRIVE FLYOVER, THE SLIP ROAD SOUTH OF THE ST. JOHN’S BUILDING AND GARDEN ROAD FLYOVER TO JOIN QUEENSWAY.

MEANWHILE, MOTORISTS TRAVELLING ON TAMAR STREET HEADING FOR CENTRAL WILL HAVE TO USE THE COTTON TREE DRIVE FLYOVER, THE SLIP ROAD SOUTH OF THE ST. JOHN’S BUILDING AND GARDEN ROAD TO JOIN QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL.

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WAN CHAI TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

* * *

THE DOWN RAMP OF CANAL ROAD FLYOVER IN WAN CHAI LEADING TO GLOUCESTER ROAD WESTBOUND IS CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FROM 1 AM TO 6 AM DAILY UNTIL FRIDAY (DECEMBER 4) FOR ROAD WORKS.

VEHICLES ON CANAL ROAD FLYOVER HEADING FOR CENTRAL SHOULD USE THE RAMP TO GLOUCESTER ROAD EASTBOUND, GLOUCESTER ROAD FLYOVER AND GLOUCESTER ROAD WESTBOUND.

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WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * *

STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 64.4 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 377.487 MILLION CUBIC METRES.

THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 367.862 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 62.8 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.

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Daily Information Bulletin - 1980s - 1987 - NOV - ENG