DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES . . BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
.... - — CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING: Li
MUTUAL RESPECT, TRUST BETWEEN HK AND CHINA VITAL................ 1
SPENDING ON MAMMOTH PROJECTS SHOULD BE PROPERLY MONITORED . 5
SENTIMENT ON RIGHT OF ABODE IN UK RUNNING HIGH ................. 4
■»
CHINA AND BRITAIN MUST DEMONSTRATE CONFIDENCE .................. 5
CALL FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF MEDICAL SPECIALIST REGISTER....... 7
STABILITY AND PROSPERITY THE PRIME OBJECTIVE.................... 9
POLICY SPEECH.SETS NEW DIRECTION .............................. 10
POLICY ADDRESS SHOWS DETERMINATION, FORESIGHT ................. 12
PROPOSAL FOR BICAMERAL SYSTEM CRITICISED ...................... 1?
POLICY SPEECH OFFERS VISION FOR FUTURE......................... 15
CALL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL ....................... 16
EXPANSION IN TERTIARY EDUCATION MOST STRIKING ................. 18
BRAIN DRAIN AND EMIGRATION PROBLEMS DISTURBING ................ 19
CALL TO REVIEW SIXTH FORM EDUCATION ........................... 21
22 MEMBERS SPEAK IN POLICY DEBATE.............................. 22
THIRD REPORT ON HONG KONG SUBMITTED TO UN ..................... 22
/MONETARY STATISTICS
MONETARY STATISTICS FOR SEPTEMBER PUBLISHED.................... 25
,1989 PILOT CENSUS TO START ON FRIDAY........................... 28
AIMS AND DIRECTION OF SPORTS DEVELOPMENT IN HK................. 29
APA ADVISED TO WORK TOWARDS DEGREE GRANTING STATUS ............ 50
SURVEY FINDINGS SHOW KWAI TSING NEEDS CIVIC 51
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS ............. 52
LRT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA .............. 53
DB COMMITTEE TO REVIEW TRAFFIC CONDITIONS ..................... 53
MERCHANT FINED FOR USING INACCURATE WEIGHING INSTRUMENTS ....
SCHOOL DRAMAS TO PROMOTE KEEP CLEAN MESSAGE ................... 35
TRAINING COURSE FOR STEAM RECEIVER OPERATORS .................. 36
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR KING'S ROAD RECONSTRUCTION 37
TEMPORARY URBAN CLEARWAY ON CONDUIT ROAD....................... 38
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 1, 1989
1
MUTUAL RESPECT. TRUST BETWEEN HK AND CHINA VITAL
* * * * *
THE HON ALLEN LEE TODAY (WEDNESDAY) URGED MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TO SEEK WAYS AND MEANS TO FOSTER MUTUAL RESPECT AND TRUST BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA WHICH HE SAID ARE VITAL TO THEIR UNIQUE RELATIONSHIP.
COMMENTING ON THIS RELATIONSHIP, AS HE LED OFF DEBATE ON HIS MOTION THAT THE GOVERNOR BE THANKED FOR HIS POLICY ADDRESS, THE SENIOR MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL SAID, "CHINA’S FUTURE IS OUR FUTURE".
HE SAID, "WE MUST MAKE THE CHINESE LEADERSHIP UNDERSTAND WHAT HONG KONG IS ALL ABOUT.
"WE, AS A COMMUNITY, ENJOY COMPLETE FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND SPEECH AND THE CORNERSTONE OF OUR SUCCESS IS THE 'RULE OF LAW'.
"THESE MAY NOT BE UNDERSTOOD BY THE POWERS OF CHINA. WE MUST UPHOLD THESE PRINCIPLES REGARDLESS OF THE COST."
ON THE OTHER HAND, HE SAID, WE MUST NOT ACT IN SUCH A WAY AS TO GIVE THE IMPRESSION THAT HONG KONG WAS BEING USED AS A BASE OF SUBVERSION AGAINST CHINA WHEN THERE WAS NO SUCH INTENTION AT ALL.
MR LEE BELIEVED THERE WAS A GREAT AMOUNT OF WORK TO BE DONE ON BOTH SIDES TO RESTORE TRUST AND RESPECT, WITHOUT WHICH THERE WOULD BE NO CONFIDENCE TO SPEAK OF.
HE MAINTAINED THAT AS LEADERS OF THE COMMUNITY, MEMBERS MUST ASSUME THE RESPONSIBILITY, NO MATTER HOW DIFFICULT IT WAS TO ESTABLISH AN UNDERSTANDING AND DIALOGUE WITH THE CURRENT CHINESE REGIME.
"IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL TO PROVIDE A CONCRETE BASIS FOR HOPE FOR A STABLE FUTURE," HE SAID.
MR LEE SAID THE KEY TO HONG KONG'S FUTURE LAY IN THE CONFIDENCE OF ITS PEOPLE. AND RIGHT-OF-ABODE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM WAS A FORM OF GUARANTEE THAT THE HONG KONG PEOPLE WERE LOOKING FOR.
HE EXPRESSED DISAPPOINTMENT THAT THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT HAD NOT YET MADE ANY ANNOUNCEMENT ON THE SUBJECT OF NATIONALITY DESPITE THE PROMISE MADE BY THE PRIME MINISTER LAST JUNE.
HE SAID, "NOW IT IS NOVEMBER AND ALL WE HEAR IS THAT IT IS POLITICALLY IMPRACTICAL TO GRANT THE RIGHT OF ABODE TO 3.25 MILLION PEOPLE AND THAT IT IS DIFFICULT TO COME UP WITH A NATIONALITY PACKAGE FOR THE HONG KONG PEOPLE."
NO COUNTRY IN THE WORLD, HE SAID, WOULD DENY CITIZENSHIP AND. THE RIGHT OF ABODE TO THEIR SUBJECTS.
/HE HOPED .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
HE HOPED THAT THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT, INSTEAD OF FIDGETING OVER FIGURES AND NUMBERS. WOULD FULFIL ITS RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
TURNING TO CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS, PARTICULARLY THOSE FOR 1991, MR LEE SAID THERE WAS A CLEAR CONSENSUS AMONG OMELCO MEMBERS THAT THE PROPOSAL THEY HAD PUT FORWARD SUGGESTED A PACE OF DEMOCRATISATION IN HONG KONG MOST SUITABLE FOR REALISING "HONG KONG PEOPLE RULING HONG KONG WITH A HIGH DEGREE OF AUTONOMY" AS PROMISED BY THE CHINESE LEADERS.
THE OMELCO PROPOSAL WAS CLEARLY SUPPORTED BY MEMBERS OF THE DISTRICT BOARDS, HE SAID.
"IT IS NOW UP TO THE GOVERNMENT TO IMPLEMENT THIS PROPOSAL IN 1991."
MR LEE BELIEVED THERE WAS A NEED FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO REVIEW THE ROLE OF DISTRICT BOARDS NOW BECAUSE THEY WERE WELL ESTABLISHED AND THEIR INFLUENCE HAD CHANGED THROUGHOUT THE YEARS.
IN HIS OPINION, THE BOARD MEMBERS SHOULD BE GIVEN THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ASSUMING THE LEADERSHIP OF THEIR DISTRICTS.
"THIS IS THE PURPOSE OF BEING ELECTED AND BEING ACCOUNTABLE TO THE PEOPLE," HE SAID.
COMMENTING ON THE INFLUX OF VIETNAMESE PEOPLE WHICH HE DESCRIBED AS THE "NUMBER ONE CONCERN OF OUR COMMUNITY", MR LEE BELIEVED THAT IT WAS THE WISH OF MOST MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL TO SEE THE EARLY REPATRIATION TO VIETNAM OF THOSE SCREENED OUT AS NON-REFUGEES.
"WE MUST ACT IN THE INTEREST OF OUR COMMUNITY. REPATRIATION MUST START AND START SOON." HE SAID.
HE FELT THAT THE CONFERENCES IN GENEVA HAD NOT BEEN EFFECTIVE IN TACKLING THE PROBLEMS AS NO AGREEMENT HAD YET BEEN REACHED ON REPATRIATION.
MEANWHILE. MR LEE SAID, THE SITUATION WAS FRUSTRATING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY. MANY PEOPLE HAD QUESTIONED THE ABILITY OF THE ADMINISTRATION IN HANDLING THE PROBLEM.
AN EARLY RESOLUTION OF THE PROBLEM WAS ESSENTIAL, HE ADDED-.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
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SPENDING ON MAMMOTH PROJECTS SHOULD BE PROPERLY MONITORED ******
WITH THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE BUILDING OF A MODERN AIRPORT, THE NEW HARBOUR FACILITIES AND INVESTMENTS IN VARIOUS INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS TOTALLING S127 BILLION, A VIBRANT AND PROSPEROUS HONG KONG CAN BE ENVISAGED TOWARDS THE END OF THIS CENTURY, THE HON PETER POON SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR POON, HOWEVER, NOTED THAT HONG KONG HAD TO GUARD AGAINST INFLATION AND ENSURE THAT THE VAST INVESTMENTS WERE PROPERLY MONITORED AND BUDGETS OF THE MAJOR PROJECTS DID NOT OVERRUN.
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR POON SAID WE MUST HAVE CONFIDENCE IN OURSELVES BEFORE OTHERS COULD HAVE CONFIDENCE IN US.
"LET US ALL WORK TOWARDS SUCH A GOAL AND ENSURE THAT WE CONTINUE TO BE THE ’PEARL OF THE ORIENT’ THROUGH 1997 AND BEYOND," HE SAID.
ON THE BRAIN DRAIN ISSUE, MR POON SAID THE PROBLEM WAS QUITE SERIOUS, AND HONG KONG STOOD TO LOSE MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE WHICH WOULD BE HARD TO REPLACE.
"HENCE, WE MUST CONTINUE TO PRESS THE UNITED KINGDOM TO RESTORE FULL BRITISH CITIZENSHIP TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, TO EXPLAIN OUR PREDICAMENTS TO OTHER NATIONS, AND TO TAKE A LEAD IN EFFORTS AT RESTORING THE CONFIDENCE OF THE PEOPLE IN HONG KONG," HE SAID.
MR POON SAID IF THE FINAL PACKAGE FROM THE UNITED KINGDOM INCLUDED CONDITIONS THAT THE PEOPLE CONCERNED COULD ONLY BE GIVEN THE SAFETY-LINE AFTER 1997. IT WOULD ONLY DEFEAT THE PURPOSE OF THE WHOLE EXERCISE AND DRIVE PEOPLE TO LEAVE EARLIER.
ON EDUCATION, MR POON SAID THE GOVERNOR’S AMBITIOUS PLAN TO EXPAND TERTIARY PLACES TO 67,000 IN 1995 FOR 25 PER CENT OF THE RELEVANT AGE GROUP WAS VERY ENCOURAGING.
HE SAID HIS MAIN CONCERN ON THE EXPANSION OF TERTIARY EDUCATION WAS THAT THERE WOULD BE PROBLEMS IN RECRUITING SUITABLE LECTURERS AND STAFF.
ON THE ECONOMY, MR POON NOTED THAT APART FROM SOME SLOWDOWN IN CERTAIN SECTORS, BUSINESS WAS GOING ON AS USUAL AND THAT A LITTLE COOLING OFF OF THE OVERHEATED ECONOMY MIGHT NOT BE A BAD THING IN THE SHORT TERM.
"OUR NEWLY RE-ORGANISED FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS HAVE WEATHERED THE RECENT CRISIS AND THE LINKED EXCHANGE RATE SYSTEM HAS AGAIN PROVED ITS WORTH," HE SAID.
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A....
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
SENTIMENT ON RIGHT OF ABODE IN UK RUNNING HIGH
*****
SENTIMENT IS RUNNING HIGH IN THE COMMUNITY FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM TO HONOUR ITS MORAL OBLIGATIONS WHICH GO HAND-IN-HAND WITH SOVEREIGNTY TOWARDS HONG KONG PEOPLE, THE HON CHEUNG YAN-LUNG SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
UNLESS A SATISFACTORY SCHEME WAS FORTHCOMING IN THE IMMEDIATE FUTURE, FRUSTRATION COULD BUILD UP TO A POINT WHICH WOULD EVENTUALLY AFFECT THE GOVERNABILITY OF THE TERRITORY, HE ADDED.
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, MR CHEUNG URGED THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT TO MAKE AN EARLY ANNOUNCEMENT ON THE RIGHT OF ABODE ISSUE SO THAT PEOPLE MIGHT BE REASSURED ON THE FUTURE.
HE ALSO URGED THAT THE SCHEME SHOULD BE AS GENEROUS AS POSSIBLE ALTHOUGH BRITAIN HAD ALL ALONG ARGUED THAT IT WAS IMPRACTICABLE TO RESTORE THE RIGHT OF ABODE IN THE UK TO ALL THE BRITISH SUBJECTS IN HONG KONG.
"ONLY A GENEROUS SCHEME WILL BOOST THE CONFIDENCE OF A SUFFICIENTLY LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE TO STAY AND CONTINUE SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG.
"SUCH A SCHEME SHOULD NOT BE CONDITIONAL UPON ANY FUTURE EVENTUALITIES EITHER, LEST IT WOULD DEFEAT ITS PURPOSES," HE SAID.
MR CHEUNG NOTED THAT BRITAIN HAD NEVER BEEN A FAVOURED DESTINATION COUNTRY FOR HONG KONG EMIGRANTS AS MANY WOULD OPT FOR THE UNITED STATES, CANADA AND AUSTRALIA.
HE SAID HONG KONG PEOPLE WERE ONLY SEEKING AN INSURANCE POLICY AND NOT ACTUALLY MOVING OVERSEAS NOW.
ON SINO-HONG KONG RELATIONSHIPS, MR CHEUNG URGED ALL PARTIES CONCERNED TO PUT ASIDE THEIR DIFFERENCES AND PUT ALL THEIR EFFORTS INTO MAINTAINING HONG KONG’S STABILITY AND PROSPERITY BEFORE AND BEYOND 1997.
HE SAID ANY UNCERTAINTY DURING THE TRANSITION WOULD HAMPER NOT ONLY THE CONFIDENCE OF HONG KONG PEOPLE BUT ALSO THAT OF THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY.
ON VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE, MR CHEUNG SAID THE CONCEPT OF SCREENING HAD NOW BEEN ADOPTED BY ALL OTHER. PLACES OF FIRST ASYLUM IN THE REGION AND THE LOGICAL DEVELOPMENT WOULD BE TO LOOK FOR WAYS TO REPATRIATE THOSE WHO WERE NOT GENUINE REFUGEES.
"I ALSO URGE THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY, BEFORE IT TRIES TO POINT FINGERS AT HONG KONG, TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ACTUAL SITUATION IN HONG KONG, AND OFFER BETTER ALTERNATIVES IF THEY CAN THINK OF ANY," HE SAID.
/ON ENVIRONMENTAL .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
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ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, MR CHEUNG SAID THAT OVERSEAS POLLUTION CONTROL STANDARDS WERE IMPORTED DIRECTLY INTO HONG KONG'S DOMESTIC LEGISLATION WITH LITTLE MODIFICATIONS AND SUCH A MOVE MIGHT AFFECT LOCAL INDUSTRY.
MORE IMPORTANTLY, HE SAID, THE GOVERNMENT HAD PROVIDED INSUFFICIENT ASSISTANCE TO THOSE AFFECTED.
"I THEREFORE REQUEST THE GOVERNMENT TO CRITICALLY EXAMINE OUR OVERALL APPROACH TOWARDS POLLUTION CONTROL BEFORE EMBARKING ON ANY MASSIVE NEW PLANS TO IMPROVE OUR ENVIRONMENT," HE SAID.
MR CHEUNG ALSO NOTED THAT RECREATION AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES RELIED HEAVILY ON GOVERNMENT SUBVENTION AND COMMERCIAL SPONSORSHIP BUT, WITH THE PROPOSED BAN ON TOBACCO SPONSORSHIP, THE DEVELOPMENT OF RECREATION AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES MIGHT BE AFFECTED.
AND WITH AN INCREASE IN THE DEMAND ON RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND FACILITIES, HE SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT PROVIDE MORE FUNDS TO MEET THIS GROWING DEMAND.
MR CHEUNG WELCOMED THE GOVERNMENT’S INITIATIVE IN SETTING UP A COMMISSION ON YOUTH.
"A COMMISSION TO ADVISE GOVERNMENT ON A BALANCED DEVELOPMENT OF OUR VALUABLE AND GROWING ASSETS WILL HELP DIFFERENT GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATIONS PUT TOGETHER THEIR EFFORTS TO DEVISE CO-ORDINATED POLICIES TO NURTURE THE TALENTS AND POTENTIALS OF THE YOUNGSTERS," HE SAID.
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CHINA AND BRITAIN MUST DEMONSTRATE CONFIDENCE ******
IN ASKING OUR PEOPLE TO HAVE CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE, CHINA AND BRITAIN MUST DEMONSTRATE THAT THEY HAVE CONFIDENCE IN THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG TO BE ENTRUSTED WITH THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THAT FUTURE, THE HON SELINA CHOW SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"IT IS THE BEST CONFIDENCE BOOSTER FOR THIS MOMENT," MRS CHOW SAID IN THE POLICY DEBATE.
SHE SAID OPENING UP OF THE SYSTEM WAS A MATTER OF URGENCY, AND DEMOCRATIC REFORM ALONG THE LINES OF THE OMELCO CONSENSUS. MUST BE SET IN MOTION RIGHT AWAY.
THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT SHOULD HOLD BACK NO MORE AND THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT SHOULD OBSTRUCT NO FURTHER.
/SHE SAID ......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
6
SHE SAID SHE SUPPORTED THE OMELCO CONSENSUS BECAUSE IT CLEARLY AND UNEQUIVOCABLY SPELLED OUT THE REALISATION OF THE COMMITMENT TO A DEFINITE TIME-TABLE.
IT WAS THE ONLY FORMULA THAT RESOLVED THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENT IN THE WHOLE ISSUE - THAT WAS THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE LEGISLATURE AND THE EXECUTIVE BY LINKING SELECTION OF BOTH BY UNIVERSAL SUFFRAGE AT A TARGET DATE ACCEPTABLE TO MOST, SHE SAID.
"OF ALL THE PROPOSALS SO FAR PUT FORWARD BY VARIOUS GROUPS, THIS ONE IS UNDOUBTEDLY THE MOST DEMOCRATIC, AND IS IDENTIFIED AS THE MOST DESIRABLE BY THE MAJORITY OF OUR PEOPLE," SHE SAID.
MRS CHOW SAID THERE WOULD INEVITABLY BE DISAGREEMENT AND DEBATES IN HONG KONG OVER VARIOUS ISSUES, BUT THE FREEDOM OF THOUGHT AND EXPRESSION THAT HAD BEEN ESTABLISHED WOULD HELP THE PEOPLE TO EXERCISE THEIR RESTRAINT AND BALANCE IN ARRIVING AT THEIR OWN DECISION.
THEREFORE, THERE WOULD BE A NEED TO ESTABLISH A MUTUAL TRUST AND UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA BECAUSE OF THEIR INSEPARABLE TIE, SHE SAID.
SHE ADDED: "WE ALSO UNDERSTAND THAT ONE COUNTRY TWO SYSTEMS CAN ONLY BE GIVEN ITS TRUE MEANING IF BOTH CHINA AND HONG KONG CO-OPERATE TO UPHOLD IT TOGETHER, AND ANY OVERT MOVE ON OUR PART TO UNDERMINE THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT WOULD FORCE HER HAND AND GIVE HER NO CHOICE BUT TO INTERFERE IN OUR AFFAIRS.
"BUT APPEASEMENT AT ALL COSTS IS HARDLY THE ANSWER, FOR EVEN IF IT BUYS SHORT-TERM PEACE, IT CAN ONLY MEAN AN EROSION OF THE DEGREE OF FREEDOM WE CURRENTLY ENJOY.
"THE ANSWER LIES IN TACTFUL PRESENTATION AND AFFIRMATION OF PRINCIPLES THROUGH CONVINCING REASONING, WHICH CALL FOR CALM THINKING, COOL COURAGE AND IMMENSE POLITICAL SKILL, QUALITIES WHICH ARE NOT ALWAYS APPARENT IN OUR MORE VOCAL POLITICAL LEADERS," SHE SAID.
MRS CHOW SUGGESTED THAT BY THE END OF THE DAY THE PRESERVATION OF THE TRUE ECONOMIC VALUE OF HONG KONG TO CHINA WOULD DETERMINE THE DEGREE TO WHICH CHINA WAS PREPARED TO LEAVE HONG KONG ALONE, AND NOT HARSH WORDS, MASS RALLIES AND STREET DEMONSTRATIONS.
"TO ACHIEVE THIS, THE SINGLE MOST EFFECTIVE ROUTE IS TO PLACE ABOVE ALL ELSE OUR HARD WORK AND DEDICATION IN THE PRODUCTIVE EFFORTS WF. HAVE PUT IN ALL THESE YEARS TO STRENGTHEN OUR OWN FOUNDATION.
"IT IS THE BEST LEGACY WE CAN LEAVE TO OUR CHILDREN," SHE SAID.
ON THE NATIONALITY ISSUE, MRS CHOW SAID SHE WAS STILL COMMITTED TO THE CAUSE OF FIGHTING FOR RESTORATION OF THE RIGHT OF ABODE FOR HONG KONG BRITISH SUBJECTS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.
/SHE SAID
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
SHE SAID IT WOULD BE THE MOST URGENT TASK OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT TO REAFFIRM THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO COME UP WITH A PUBLIC STATEMENT OF ACTION NO LATER THAN JANUARY.
IT WOULD THEN BE SEEN INTERNATIONALLY THAT BRITAIN WAS TAKING THE LEAD TO ARREST HONG KONG’S BRAIN DRAIN BY PROVIDING AS MANY KEYS AS POSSIBLE TO THE IMAGINARY PRISON OF THE FUTURE, SHE ADDED.
MRS CHOW SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD MAKE A MORE CO-ORDINATED EFFORT TO ASSIST THOSE DETERMINED TO OBTAIN A SECOND PASSPORT AND TO ATTRACT THE RETURN OF THOSE WHO HAD OBTAINED THEIR FOREIGN PASSPORT.
"A PACKAGE OF MEASURES RANGING FROM THE PROVISION OF ENGLISH SPEAKING SCHOOLS TO ASSISTANCE FOR JOB PLACEMENTS SHOULD BE DRAWN UP, BASED ON WELL RESEARCHED AND PROFESSIONALLY SURVEYED INFORMATION BY GOVERNMENT WITH INPUT FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM THOROUGHLY," SHE SAID.
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CALL FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF MEDICAL SPECIALIST REGISTER *******
HONG KONG NEEDS A HIGH STANDARD OF POSTGRADUATE CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION, RESEARCH, AND ESTABLISHMENT OF ITS OWN SPECIALIST REGISTER, DR THE HON HENRIETTA IP SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, DR IP WELCOMED THE FORMATION OF A HONG KONG ACADEMY OF MEDICINE PREPARATORY COMMITTEE TO UNDERTAKE THE PLANNING FOR THE ACADEMY AND TO DETERMINE ITS COMPOSITION.
HOWEVER, SHE REGRETTED THAT THE WORKING PARTY ON POSTGRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING, IN THEIR RECOMMENDATION OF WHICH SPECIALTY SHOULD BE AWARDED COLLEGE STATUS, FAILED TO MEET THEIR OWN RATIONAL GUIDELINES.
"CERTAIN SPECIALTIES WERE AWARDED COLLEGE STATUS ALTHOUGH THEY FAILED TO HAVE A WELL ESTABLISHED TRAINING PROGRAMME, AND A MINIMUM OF 50 FULLY QUALIFIED DOCTORS OF SPECIALIST STATUS. WHEREAS, PAEDIATRICS, ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY AND GENERAL PRACTICE WERE EXCLUDED, ALTHOUGH THEY FULFILLED ALL CRITERIA.
"IT IS WITH GREATER REGRET TO LEARN THAT IN SPITE OF STRONG VIEWS RECEIVED ON THE EXCLUSION OF PAEDIATRICS, ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY AND GENERAL PRACTICE, DURING THE CONSULTATIVE EXERCISE, .THE WORKING PARTY REFUSED TO CHANGE THEIR RECOMMENDATIONS," SHE SAID.
DR IP URGED THE GOVERNOR TO ENSURE THAT THE MEMBERS APPOINTED TO THE PREPARATORY COMMITTEE WOULD BE BALANCED IN COMPOSITION AND UNBIASED IN ESTABLISHING GUIDELINES IN THE FORMATION OF COLLEGES, TO WHICH IT MUST CONFORM.
/TURNING TO
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
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TURNING TO THE SUBJECT OF HEALTH, DR IP NOTED THAT THE PHYSICAL RECREATION AND HEALTH REPORT PUBLISHED BY THE COUNCIL FOR RECREATION AND SPORT HAD ADDRESSED THE NEED FOR A CENTRAL CO-ORDINATING BODY TO LAUNCH PHYSICAL ASSESSMENT TESTS, TO PRESCRIBE PHYSICAL RECREATION FOR ALL AND TO OFFER PHYSICAL FITNESS AWARDS AS AN ONGOING EXERCISE.
"THE PUBLIC MUST BE EDUCATED THAT PHYSICAL RECREATION IS BENEFICIAL TO HEALTH. THEY MUST BE ENCOURAGED TO UNDERGO PHYSICAL FITNESS TESTS SO THAT APPROPRIATE EXERCISES CAN BE RECOMMENDED TO RECTIFY THEIR DEFICIENT AREAS," DR IP SAID.
SHE SAID THAT IT WAS DISAPPOINTING TO LEARN THAT DUE TO FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS THE BUDGET FOR THE MUCH EXPECTED FULL-TIME SPORTS TEACHERS FOR DEVELOPING EXTRACURRICULAR SPORTS, AND THE ACTIVITIES, IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS HAD BEEN SLASHED.
IT WAS ALSO UNLIKELY THAT SPORTS COACHES IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS WOULD BE EMPLOYED AS RECOMMENDED IN THE SPORTS IN EDUCATION REPORT PUBLISHED ALSO BY THE COUNCIL FOR RECREATION AND SPORT, SHE ADDED.
ON URBAN RENEWAL, DR IP SAID THAT WITH THE PROSPECT OF TAKING OVER SITES WITHIN DENSELY POPULATED DISTRICTS, IT SEEMED A GOOD IDEA TO REVERT PART OR WHOLE OF THESE SITES FOR PUBLIC OPEN SPACE, AND THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD RECONSIDER ADOPTING THIS AS PART OF ITS LAND POLICY OR MAKE SUCH LAND EXCHANGE FOR THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION.
SHE ALSO SAID THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT TO OPERATE UNDER COMMERCIAL PRINCIPLES, SOME SPACE MUST BE LEFT FOR COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS SO THAT DEVELOPERS WOULD CONTINUE TO SHOW THEIR INTEREST AND COMMIT THEMSELVES TO LDC PROJECTS.
"DECISIONS SHOULD THEREFORE FIRST BE MADE ON HOW MUCH SPACE SHOULD BE ALLOCATED FOR GOVERNMENT/INSTITUTION/COMMUNITY (GIO FACILITIES WITHIN A DESIGNATED SCHEME. THEN, AN EFFECTIVE SYSTEM WITHIN GOVERNMENT SHOULD BE SET UP WHEREBY DEPARTMENTAL REQUESTS ARE VETTED TO DECIDE WHAT GOES INTO A PARTICULAR SCHEME WITHIN THE SPACE ALLOCATED," SHE SAID.
DR IP NOTED THAT WHEN DEALING WITH DEVELOPERS WHO HAD COMMITTED THEMSELVES FINANCIALLY TO THE LDC, TIME WAS THE ESSENCE AND TIME WAS MONEY, BUT LEGISLATION DICTATED THAT THE SUBMISSION OF THE CORPORATION’S PLAN TO THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD RESTED NOT WITH THE LDC BUT WITH THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT, AND LANDS.
FURTHERMORE, WHILE THE APPROVAL OF SCHEMES AND THE DECISION WHEN TO RECOMMEND RESUMPTION RESTED RIGHTLY WITH GOVERNMENT, THERE WAS NO TIME LIMIT WHEN SUCH DECISION WERE TO BE MADE, IN THIS CRITICAL AREA.
TO SAVE TIME, ONE SUGGESTION WAS FOR THE LDC TO BE DELEGATED THE POWER TO SUBMIT PROJECTS TO TOWN PLANNING DIRECT, OR FOR AN IN-HOUSE RULE THAT DECISIONS MUST BE MADE BY THE GOVERNMENT WITHIN AN AGREED TIME-FRAME, SHE SAID.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
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STABILITY AND PROSPERITY THE PRIME OBJECTIVE *****
FOR ALL THOSE WHO LOVE HONG KONG, THE PRESERVATION OF THE TERRITORY’S STABILITY AND THE CONTINUATION OF ITS PROSPERITY MUST BE OUR PRIME OBJECTIVE, THE HON RITA FAN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SHE SAID IN SPITE OF THE RECENT HAPPENINGS BETWEEN CHINA AND HONG KONG, WITH ALL THE NEGATIVE FEELING AROUND US, IT WOULD BE ALL THE MORE NECESSARY FOR US TO RECOGNISE THAT THE REAL STRENGTH TO BUILD HONG KONG WAS IN HONG KONG ITSELF.
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, MRS FAN SAID HONG KONG COULD RELY ON NEITHER CHINA NOR THE WESTERN WORLD TO BUILD UP ITS OWN CONFIDENCE BUT SHOULD MAP OUT ITS OWN FUTURE PLANS.
"TO BOW TO CHINA AND FOLLOW THEIR EVERY WISH IS UNNECESSARY. TO CHALLENGE CHINA IN AN OPENLY CONFRONTATIONAL POSTURE IS EQUALLY UNNCESSARY.
"TO WIN FAVOUR WITH CHINA, OR TO GAIN A COURAGEOUS PUBLIC IMAGE, IF I MAY SAY SO, MAY NOT BENEFIT OUR COMMUNITY.
"WE SHOULD TAKE THE NECESSARY DECISION RESOLUTELY, IMPLEMENT OUR PLANS EFFICIENTLY, HANDLE DISPUTES PRAGMATICALLY, AND EXERCISE SELF-RESTRAINT AND DISCRETION," SHE SAID.
MRS FAN WELCOMED THE GOVERNMENT’S PLANS TO IMPROVE EDUCATION IN BOTH QUANTITY AND QUALITY AS ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF SKILLED MANPOWER WOULD BE THE ESSENTIAL FOUNDATION FOR HONG KONG’S ROLE AS AN INTERNATIONAL TRADING AND FINANCIAL CENTRE.
SHE POINTED OUT THAT THE EXPANSION IN DEGREE PLACES HAD SATISFIED SOCIAL NEEDS. BUT BY DOUBLING THE INTAKE, THE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS WOULD HAVE TO IMPROVE THEIR TEACHING METHODS TO ENSURE THAT THE GRADUATES WERE TO ACHIEVE THE SAME HIGH STANDARD.
"I BELIEVE UPGC SHOULD CONSIDER PLACING STRONG EMPHASIS ON THE IMPROVEMENT OF TEACHING AND LEARNING METHODS, SO THAT ACADEMICS ARE REMINDED OF THE IMPORTANCE OF THEIR TEACHING ROLE," SHE SAID.
MRS FAN NOTED THAT THE QUALITY OF TEACHING STAFF WOULD ALSO BE IMPORTANT TN THE IMPROVEMENT OF EDUCATION AT ALL LEVELS.
SHE SUGGESTED THAT A DETAILED STUDY INTO THE FUTURE OF THE TEACHING PROFESSION WITH A VIEW TO ATTRACTING, TRAINING AND RETAINING GOOD TEACHERS SHOULD BE GIVEN PRIORITY.
AS FOR THE COMMISSIONING OF OVERSEAS EXPERTS TO REVIEW HONG KONG'S EDUCATION SYSTEM, MRS FAN FELT THAT HONG KONG HAD THE EXPERTISE AND COMMITMENT TO FULFIL THE ASSIGNMENT.
/"OUR POPULATION .....
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
10
"OUR POPULATION IS SUBJECTED TO DEMANDS WHICH ARE QUITE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE LIVING IN OTHER COUNTRIES.
"I FEEL THEREFORE WE SHOULD PUT TO OUR ADVISORY COMMITTEES AND THOSE BODIES EXPERIENCED IN EDUCATION AN AGENDA REFLECTING OUR BASIC PRIORITIES IN TERMS OF BOTH THE QUANTITY AND QUALITY OF EDUCATION.
"THE ENGAGEMENT OF CONSULTANTS FROM OVERSEAS, IN A MANNER SIMILAR TO THE PANEL OF VISITORS IN 1982, IS NO LONGER NECESSARY. I BELIEVE WE DO HAVE THE EXPERTISE AND COMMITMENT WITHIN OUR OWN EDUCATION SYSTEM TO ENABLE US TO MOVE CONFIDENTLY INTO THE NEXT CENTURY," SHE SAID.
ON POLITICAL REFORM, MRS FAN SAID THERE WAS WIDESPREAD CONSENSUS FOR THE INCREASE OF DIRECTLY ELECTED SEATS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN 1991 FROM 10 TO 20.
"IT IS NOW UP TO THE GOVERNMENT TO ACT RESOLUTELY IN THIS DIRECTION AND PROCEED TO WORK OUT THE DETAILS EFFICIENTLY.
"I DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE POSSIBILITY OF WAVES OF CRITICISMS, EVEN A PROPAGANDA WAR, BUT IF THESE DO MATERIALISE, WE JUST HAVE TO WITHSTAND IT IN A FIRM AND DETERMINED MANNER," SHE SAID.
---0------
POLICY SPEECH SETS NEW DIRECTION *****
THE GOVERNOR'S POLICY ADDRESS HAS NOT ONLY DEMONSTRATED THE GOVERNMENT’S DETERMINATION TO RESTORE THE CONFIDENCE OF HONG KONG PEOPLE BUT HAS ALSO SET A NEW DIRECTION FOR BUILDING A MORE PROSPEROUS HONG KONG, THE HON CHENG HON-KWAN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR CHENG SAID THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG HAD BECOME INCREASINGLY SENSITIVE, ESPECIALLY UNDER THE PRESENT.UNCERTAIN POLITICAL CLIMATE.
"IT IS THEREFORE ALL THE MORE IMPORTANT THAT THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AND THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT SHOULD STEER TOWARDS THE SAME DIRECTION IF THEY ARE TO MAINTAIN THE STABILITY AND PROSPERITY OF THE TERRITORY NOW AND AFTER 1997," HE SAID.
MR CHENG SAID HE WAS DELIGHTED TO SEE THE GOVERNMENT'S PROMPT DECISION ON THE PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY.
HE SAID THE PROJECT HAD CLEARLY SHOWN THE GOVERNMENT’S UNRESERVED COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG’S FUTURE - A MOVE WHICH WOULD DEFINITELY HELP STRENGTHEN THE CONFIDENCE OF HONG KONG PEOPLE.
/HE NOTED
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
11
HE NOTED THAT THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW AIRPORT AND THE ASSOCIATED EXPANSION OF THE PORT AND TRANSPORT FACILITIES OFFERED AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY FOR CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR,
HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT BOTH LOCAL AND OVERSEAS DEVELOPERS WOULD BE INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING IN THESE LARGE-SCALE AND CHALLENGING PROJECTS.
AS THE CONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME REQUIRED ENORMOUS FINANCIAL COMMITMENT, MR CHENG SUGGESTED THAT THE SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION LAND FUND SHOULD BE USED TO PARTIALLY FUND THE CONSTRUCTION OF OUR INFRASTRUCTURE,
BESIDES, AS THE REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME AFTER THE CLOSURE OF THE KAI TAK AIRPORT WOULD BENEFIT THE FUTURE SAR GOVERNMENT, HE SAID IT WAS APPROPRIATE FOR THE SAR GOVERNMENT TO SHOULDER PART OF THE FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY OF BUILDING THE NEW AIRPORT AND ITS ASSOCIATED FACILITIES.
TO GUARANTEE AN ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF HUMAN RESOURCES, HE SAID THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD FURTHER RELAX THE IMPORT OF MANPOWER.
AS REGARDS LAND RESOURCES, MR CHENG FULLY SUPPORTED THE CENTRAL AND WAN CHAI RECLAMATION WHICH WOULD PROVIDE MORE LAND FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT.
HE HOPED THAT THE RECLAMATION WOULD RELIEVE THE MOUNTING PRESSURE IMPOSED BY THE SKYROCKETING RENTALS AND ATTRACT FIRMS TO SET UP OFFICES HERE.
TURNING TO THE PROBLEM OF "BRAIN DRAIN", HE SAID IT WAS ENCOURAGING TO SEE THAT THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSED TO PROVIDE MORE HIGHER EDUCATION PLACES.
HE HOPED THAT OUR YOUNG PEOPLE WOULD CONTRIBUTE IN CONSOLIDATING THE STRENGTH OF HONG KONG TO FACE FUTURE CHALLENGES.
BEJNG THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CITY POLYTECHNIC'S COUNCIL, MR CHENG WELCOMED IN PARTICULAR THE BREAKTHROUGH'IN LIFTING THE EXISTING 40 PER CENT LIMIT ON DEGREE PLACES OFFERED AT THE TWO POLYTECHNICS.
HE HOPED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD OFFER BETTER CONDITIONS OF SERVICE FOR STAFF IN NON-UNIVERSITY INSTITUTIONS IN ORDER TO RECRUIT AND RETAIN QUALIFIED ACADEMIC STAFF.
REGARDING THE PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT OF A NEW HONG KONG TECHNOLOGY CENTRE, MR CHENG BELIEVED IT WOULD HELP OUR INCREASINGLY SOPHISTICATED ECONOMIC AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 12 -
POLICY ADDRESS SHOWS DETERMINATION. FORESIGHT
******
THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS HAS DEMONSTRATED TO OVERSEAS COUNTRIES THE DETERMINATION AND FORESIGHT WITH WHICH THE GOVERNMENT IS GUIDING HONG KONG THROUGH THE TRANSITIONAL PERIOD AND ENSURING THAT IT WILL REMAIN PROSPEROUS IN THE 21ST CENTURY, THE HON HUI YIN-FAT SAID TN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR HUI SAID IN THE POLICY DEBATE HE WAS PARTICULARLY GRATIFIED TO SEE THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS NOT ONLY FORWARD-LOOKING BUT HAD AT HEART THE WELFARE OF ITS PEOPLE.
HE NOTED THAT THE GOVERNOR HAD ASKED FOR A REVIEW OF SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES WITH A VIEW TO PUBLISHING A WHITE PAPER IN THE SECOND HALF OF NEXT YEAR SETTING OUT PROPOSALS ON THE WAY AHEAD. THE SUBVERTED SECTOR COULD MAKE A POSITIVE AND CONSTRUCTIVE CONTRIBUTION TO THIS EXERCISE.
AS FAR AS SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES FOR THE 1990’S WERE CONCERNED. MR HUI SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CONTINUE TO BUILD ON THE EXISTING SYSTEM SO THAT OUR POLICY WOULD ACHIEVE THE LONG-TERM GOAL OF UNIVERSAL SERVICES.
"THE GOVERNMENT WILL ENSURE ADEQUATE SERVICES FOR EVERYONE IN NEED. ALSO, THE QUALITY OF SERVICE SHOULD TAKE INTO ACCOUNT PEOPLE’S BASIC RIGHTS, DEVELOPMENT AND DIGNITY," HE NOTED.
MR HUI SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD DEVOTE A GREAT DEAL OF ATTENTION TO IDENTIFYING THE NEEDS OF SOCIETY AND DRAWING UP PRACTICAL PROPOSALS, INCLUDING THOSE FOR NEW SERVICES.
"THE 1990 WHITE PAPER SHOULD PROVIDE A NEW, REALISTIC BASE FOR SETTING PLANNING STANDARDS AND STAND AND COSTS FOR EACH TYPE OF SOCIAL SERVICE," HE SAID.
"THE COMPONENTS OF THIS BASE SHOULD BE REVIEWED REGULARLY, AT LEAST ONCE EVERY FIVE YEARS, TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES WHILE THE STANDARDS FOR EACH SERVICE AREA SHOULD BE ADJUSTED MORE FREQUENTLY, PERHAPS ONCE EVERY TWO YEARS.
"THERE SHOULD ALSO BE SOME FORM OF INCOME PROTECTION AND RETIREMENT BENEFITS FOR OUR RAPIDLY GROWING AGED."
MR HUT CALLED ON THE GOVERNMENT TO PREPARE ITS FIVE-YEAR FORECAST ON SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES SPENDING WITH CARE, ACCURACY AND VISION, AND TO PROVIDE FOR AN UPWARD ADJUSTMENT OF ITS ALLOCATION FOR SOCIAL SERVICES IN ITS 1990 WHITE PAPER.
/BE SAID.......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
HE SAID THAT WHILE HE WAS GLAD THE GOVERNMENT HAD APPROVED FUNDS TO INCREASE SUBSTANTIALLY THE INTAKE OF SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS INTO THE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS EACH YEAR FROM THIS YEAR TO 1991. HE FELT IT WAS EQUALLY IMPORTANT TO DEVISE MEASURES TO RETAIN EXISTING RESOURCES BOTH IN THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND TN THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR.
TO DEAL WITH THE ISSUE AT SOURCE, HE SUGGESTED THAT CONSIDERATION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO IMPROVING THE CONDITIONS OF SERVICE OF SOCIAL WORKERS, ESPECIALLY TO BRINGING THE PROMOTION PROSPECTS AND FRINGE BENEFITS OF THE SUBVENTED SECTOR IN LINE WITH THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN THE CIVIL SERVICE.
------0--------
PROPOSAL FOR BICAMERAL SYSTEM CRITICISED * * * * *
THE ONCE BEAUTIFUL DREAM OF HONG KONG PEOPLE RULING HONG KONG WITH A HIGH DEGREE OF AUTONOMY WOULD SOON BECOME A NIGHTMARE OF "HONG KONG PUPPETS RULING HONG KONG WITH A HIGH DEGREE OF CONTROL" IF THE PROPOSED BICAMERAL POLITICAL SYSTEM IS ADOPTED, THE HON MARTIN LEE SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR LEE SAID IN THE POLICY DEBATE THE NOTION OF "ONE COUNTRY, TWO SYSTEMS" WOULD BECOME "ONE COUNTRY, NO SYSTEM" UNDER THE BICAMERAL SYSTEM.
HE SAID FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY CONSTITUTED THE CORNERSTONE OF THE JOINT DECLARATION. BUT REGRETTABLY SOME PEOPLE IN HONG KONG WERE QUITE PREPARED TO SACRIFICE SOME OF THE FREEDOMS TO PLEASE THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT.
"HENCE THE RECENT SUGGESTION FROM SOME OF OUR OPINION LEADERS THAT THE HONG KONG ALLIANCE IN SUPPORT OF PATRIOTIC DEMOCRATIC MOVEMENT OF CHINA BE WOUND UP, THINKING NAIVELY THAT IF THAT WERE TO HAPPEN, CHINA WOULD GIVE US EVERYTHING ELSE," HE SAID.
HE SAID IT WOULD BE VERY SAD INDEED IF THE HONG KONG ALLIANCE WERE TO BE WOUND UP SIMPLY BECAUSE CHINA WISHED IT -- FOR CHINA ALSO WISHED TO CONTROL THE PRESS AND, INDEED, ALL THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
"WHAT WE MUST DO THEREFORE IS TO STAND UNITED AND MAKE SURE THAT NO ONE IN HONG KONG WILL LOSE ANY OF OUR FREEDOMS, IN THE FIRM BELIEF THAT IF TODAY WE DO NOTHING WHEN ONE FREEDOM IS DENIED TO ANY OF OUR BRETHREN, THEN TOMORROW IT WILL BE DENIED TO ALL OF US," HE SAID.
HE SAID THE MAJOR FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE SUCCESS OF HONG KONG WERE ITS FREE MARKET ECONOMY, THE RULE OF LAW AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL.
/FURTHER, THE .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
FURTHER, THE FREEDOM OF THOUGHT AND EXPRESSION PLAYED A VITAL ROLE IN OUR SUCCESSFUL ECONOMY. FOR SUCCESS IN BUSINESS DEPENDED ON NEW IDEAS. BUT THERE COULD BE NO NEW IDEAS WITHOUT A COMPLETELY FREE ENVIRONMENT WHERE THE FREEDOM OF THOUGHT COULD FLOURISH.
HE SAID THAT AFTER THE JUNE 4 MASSACRE AND THE SUBSEQUENT CRACKDOWN WHICH WAS CONTINUING UNABATED IN CHINA, CONFIDENCE IN HONG KONG WAS AT ITS LOWEST.
THE RESTORATION OF CONFIDENCE MUST THEREFORE BE THE IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVE OF THE BRITISH, CHINESE AND HONG KONG GOVERNMENTS.
MR LEE SAID THERE SEEMED TO HAVE BEEN AN ENCOURAGING CHANGE OF POLICY IN BRITAIN RECENTLY, FOR IT SEEMED THAT THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT WOULD NO LONGER ALLOW THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT TO LEAD IT BY THE NOSE OVER HONG KONG.
AND IT HAD SHOWN A READINESS TO MAKE DECISIONS IN THE INTEREST OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, SOMETIMES EVEN TO THE EXTENT OF OFFENDING THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT. BUT MUCH STILL REMAINED TO BE DONE BY THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT.
AS FOR THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT, IT HAD DECIDED TO LAUNCH HONG KONG FORWARD INTO THE 21ST CENTURY IN A VERY BOLD AND AMBITIOUS PROGRAMME DISCLOSED IN THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH.
BUT THESE AMBITIOUS PROJECTS WOULD NOT SUCCEED WITHOUT THE FULLEST CO-OPERATION OF CHINA. AND IT WAS PERTINENT TO REFER TO CLAUSE 4 OF THE JOINT DECLARATION WHICH CAST ON THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ADMINISTERING HONG KONG UNTIL JUNE 30, 1997 "WITH THE OBJECTIVE OF MAINTAINING AND PRESERVING ITS ECONOMIC PROSPERITY AND SOCIAL STABILITY; AND ...... THE GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA WILL GIVE ITS CO-OPERATION IN THIS CONNECTION."
"BUT WHAT HAS THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT DONE?" HE QUESTIONED.
IT APPEARED THAT CHINA HAD GIVEN UP ALL EFFORTS TO WIN BACK THE CONFIDENCE OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG AND HAD RESORTED INSTEAD TO INTIMIDATION.
HE SAID THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT HAD BEEN EXERTING GREAT PRESSURE ON THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT TO DISSOLVE THE HONG KONG ALLIANCE, THEREBY SEEKING POSITIVELY TO INTERFERE IN THE INTERNAL AFFAIRS OF HONG KONG, AND IN CLEAR BREACH OF CLAUSE 4 OF THE JOINT DECLARATION.
THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT HAD ALSO ACCUSED THE HONG KONG ALLIANCE AND ITS LEADERS OF HAVING ADOPTED AN "ANTAGONISTIC STAND AGAINST THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT".
BUT WHAT THE HONG KONG ALLIANCE HAD DONE SO FAR WAS TO EXERCISE THE FREEDROM OF EXPRESSION, WHICH WAS A RIGHT PROVIDED FOR TN THE CHINESE CONSTITUTION, HE SAID.
/HE ADDED ......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
HE ADDED THAT AS A RESULT OF THE YANG YANG INCIDENT, HONG KONG PEOPLE WERE WORRIED THAT AFTER 1997, THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT MIGHT UNILATERALLY INTERPRET A PROVISION IN THE BASIC LAW AND ACCUSE THE SAR GOVERNMENT OF HAVING CONTRAVENED IT, AND USE THAT AS JUSTIFICATION FOR ITS OWN BREACHES OF THE BASIC LAW.
ONE LESSON HONG KONG HAD LEARNT WAS THAT CHINA WOULD MAKE, KEEP OR BREAK AN AGREEMENT AS IT PLEASED.
TURNING TO THE BASIC LAW, MR LEE SAID THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WOULD NOT LIKE THE PEOPLE’S LIBERATION ARMY TO BE STATIONED IN THE HONG KONG SAR AFTER SEEING ON TELEVISION WHAT THOSE TROOPS HAD DONE TO THEIR OWN PEOPLE.
THEY WOULD LIKE THEIR CHIEF EXECUTIVE TO BE GIVEN THE EXCLUSIVE POWER OF DECIDING WHETHER TO DECLARE THE SAR TO BE IN A STATE OF EMERGENCY; AND THEY WOULD ALSO LIKE TO SEE THE POWER OF INTERPRETING THE BASIC LAW TO BE DELEGATED TO AND BE EXCLUSIVELY EXERCISED BY THE COURTS OF THE SAR, SO THAT THESE VERY IMPORTANT POWERS WOULD NOT BE EXERCISED IN PEKING.
-----0-----
POLICY SPEECH OFFERS VISION FOR FUTURE
*****
THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS HAS OFFERED HONG KONG A VISION WITH WHICH THE TERRITORY CAN IDENTIFY -- A VISION WHICH IS BOTH THOUGHTFUL AND COURAGEOUS, THE HON DAVID LI SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE POLICY SPEECH ALSO OFFERED FOCUS AND HOPE, MR LI SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE POLICY DEBATE.
HE SAID THE FINANCIAL COMMUNITY WELCOMED THE GOVERNOR’S SENSE OF VISION, ADDING THAT CERTAINLY THERE WOULD BE OBSTACLES TO OVERCOME.
FOR EXAMPLE, THERE WAS THE DANGER. OF INFLATION. BUT THIS COULD BE GUARDED AGAINST BY PHASING IN THE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS OVER TIME AND BY CLOSE FINANCIAL CONTROL.
HE SAID THERE WAS ALSO CONCERN ABOUT THE OVERALL COST OF THE PROGRAMME. "HERE, PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION IS VITAL," HE NOTED.
"THE ENTIRE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY MUST BE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN THESE PROJECTS. BIDDING MUST BE OPEN TO ALL. THIS WILL REINFORCE HONG KONG'S ROLE AS A FREE MARKET AND AN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CENTRE," HE SAID.
THIS WOULD ALSO ENSURE THAT THE PROJECTS WERE HANDLED BY THE BEST CONTRACTORS, DEVELOPERS AND OPERATORS, HE ADDED.
/MR LI
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 16
MR LI SAID EMIGRATION WAS DRAINING AWAY VALUABLE HUMAN RESOURCES. BUT ALSO SIGNIFICANT WAS HONG KONG’S OTHER "BRAIN DRAIN" --THE LOSS OF TALENT CAUSED BY AN OUTDATED, UNDER-FINANCED EDUCATION SYSTEM.
HE SAID IT WAS REFRESHING TO SEE THAT THE ADMINISTRATION WAS FINALLY TAKING STEPS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM. HOWEVER, HE SAID THAT SIMPLY RAMMING MORE BODIES THROUGH THE SYSTEM WAS NOT THE ANSWER.
"THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE SYSTEM ITSELF. WE NEED A SYSTEM WHICH TEACHES STUDENTS TO THINK FROM PRIMARY ONE ONWARDS -- A SYSTEM WHICH CREATES INDIVIDUALS, NOT ROBOTS," HE SAID.
MR LI BELIEVED THAT THE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME SET OUT IN THE POLICY SPEECH WAS A CREDIT TO THE CENTRAL POLICY UNIT.
THE PROGRAMME’S COMPLEXITY AND SCALE WOULD POSE A CHALLENGE TO THE HONG KONG ECONOMY. THEREFORE, HE SAID, IT MIGHT BE BENEFICIAL TO SET UP SPECIALIST CENTRAL POLICY SUB-UNITS TO ADVISE ON KEY ISSUES, PARTICULARLY CAPITAL PROJECT CO-ORDINATION, FISCAL AND FINANCIAL POLICY, AND EDUCATION.
"THE FUTURE IS OURS FOR THE MAKING. WE SHARE THE VISION OF A STRONGER, MORE PROSPEROUS HONG KONG. TOGETHER LET US MAKE THAT VISION A REALITY," HE CONCLUDED.
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CALL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL *****
THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD SERIOUSLY CONSIDER REPLACING THE COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY WITH A SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL, PROFESSOR THE HON C.K. POON SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE SAID THE TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL WOULD BE TO FORMULATE OVERALL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY, TO ADMINISTER PROGRAMMES AND TO OVERSEE THE ALLOCATION OF CERTAIN RESEARCH GRANTS.
BUT IT SHOULD NOT ENCROACH ON THE FIELDS WHICH HAD ALREADY BEEN COVERED BY THE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD, AND THE UNIVERSITY AND POLYTECHNICS GRANTS COMMITTEE.
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, PROF POON CRITICISED THE GOVERNMENT FOR NOT PAYING MUCH ATTENTION TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A LONGTERM STRATEGY ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, AND SAID ITS IMPORTANCE HAD ALWAYS BEEN NEGLECTED.
"PROMOTING SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IS NO LONGER A -MERE LUXURY WHICH HONG KONG CAN DO WITHOUT. I STRONGLY FEEL THAT IT IS OUR LIFELINE FOR THE FUTURE," HE SAID.
/PROF POON
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
PROF POON SUGGESTED THAT A TWO-PRONGED APPROACH SHOULD BE ADOPTED TO OBTAIN TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER FROM ABROAD, AND ADAPT AND DEVELOP THAT SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY WHICH HONG KONG NEEDED MOST.
HE SAID SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY REPRESENTED A LONG-RANGE ENDEAVOUR AND THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD TAKE A FAR-SIGHTED APPROACH IN PROMOTING THEM IN ORDER TO KEEP LOCAL INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT IN PACE WITH OTHER ASIAN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES.
HE NOTED THAT THE COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, OF WHICH HE WAS CHAIRMAN, HAD IDENTIFIED POSSIBLE TECHNOLOGY DIRECTIONS OF IMMEDIATE RELEVANCE OR POTENTIAL LONG-TERM BENEFIT TO HONG KONG.
THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD SERIOUSLY CONSIDER THE COMMITTEE’S RECOMMENDATIONS WHEN AVAILABLE AND ACT UPON THEM WITHOUT UNDUE DELAY, HE SAID.
PROF POON POINTED OUT THAT ANOTHER AREA OF PRIME IMPORTANCE FOR HONG KONG WAS MANPOWER TRAINING.
HE WELCOMED THE PLANNED INCREASE OF FIRST-YEAR, FIRST-DEGREE PLACES TO OVER 18 PER CENT OF THE RELEVANT AGE GROUP BY 1995, BUT HE STRESSED THAT THE QUALITY OF GRADUATES WAS ALSO IMPORTANT.
HE ADDED THAT HIGH QUALITY ACADEMIC STAFF WOULD BE NEEDED TO PRODUCE QUALITY GRADUATES, AND THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD LOOK FOR WAYS TO HELP IN RECRUITING AND KEEPING QUALITY STAFF.
HE CRITICISED THE GOVERNMENT FOR NOT PROVIDING ADEQUATE FUNDS FOR RESEARCH AS THIS LED TO A WASTE OF "BRAIN POWER" RESOURCES AMONG ACADEMIC STAFF.
HE NOTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD ALLOCATED S120 MILLION TO THE FIVE SUBVERTED TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS FOR RESEARCH IN THE 1988-91 TRIENNIUM, REPRESENTING A MERE $8 MILLION PER INSTITUTION PER ANNUM.
"IT IS IRONICAL THAT ACADEMIC STAFF ARE RECRUITED ON THE BASIS OF THEIR PROVEN RESEARCH RECORDS AND POTENTIAL, AND YET THEY ARE NOT PROVIDED WITH ADEQUATE RESOURCES TO ENABLE THEM TO CONTINUE WITH THEIR RESEARCH WORK," HE SAID.
PROF POON SAID IT WAS APPARENT THAT THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG WOULD LIE PARTIALLY IN THE STRENGTHENING OF ITS ECONOMIC LINKS WITH ('HINA AND THE ASSISTANCE IT COULD OFFER TOWARDS CHINA’S MODERNISATION PROGRAMMES.
IT WAS EQUALLY IMPORTANT THAT HONG KONG SHOULD REMAIN A COMPETITIVE LINK IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION WHICH CONTAINED THE FASTEST GROWING ECONOMIES IN THE WORLD.
/"AKIN TO .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
18
’’AKIN TO THE ROLE OF A BROKER AND FACILITATOR, HONG KONG IS IN A STRATEGICAL POSITION TO PROVIDE TERTIARY SERVICES TO CHINA AND COUNTRIES IN SOUTHEAST ASIA.
"TERTIARY SERVICES INCLUDE FINANCING, COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING, MANAGEMENT, PROJECT EVALUATION, AND PROFESSIONAL TRAINING. SERVICES INVOLVE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY TO
ALL THESE TERTIARY DIFFERENT DEGREES OF HE SAID.
SOPHISTICATION. SO WE
NEED
TO HAVE TECHNOLOGY,
-----o -----
EXPANSION IN TERTIARY EDUCATION MOST STRIKING
*****
THE MOST STRIKING POLICY INTRODUCED BY THE GOVERNOR IN HIS ANNUAL ADDRESS IS THE RAPID EXPANSION OF TERTIARY EDUCATION, THE HON TAI CHIN-WAH SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, MR TAI SAID THAT THE GRADUATES WOULD BE ASSETS FOR A PROGRESSING HONG KONG, AND THE EXPANSION WOULD PROVIDE EXTRA MANPOWER AND EXPERTISE TO ENABLE THE TERRITORY TO COMPETE SUCCESSFULLY WITH OTHER TECHNOLOGICALLY-ADVANCED COUNTRIES.
COMMENTING THAT A NUMBER OF EMOTIONAL ISSUES HAD BEEN RAISED DURING THE PAST MONTHS, SUCH AS THE STATIONING OF PLA TROOPS IN HONG KONG AND THE IMMEDIATE INTRODUCTION OF MORE DEMOCRACY IN CHINA, MR TAI SAID THAT HONG KONG SHOULD AVOID SUCH ISSUES AND CONCENTRATE ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ONES SUCH AS GETTING THE BASIC LAW RIGHT.
HE SAID THAT GIVEN HONG KONG’S UNIQUE GEOGRAPHIC, ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL SITUATION, ADOPTING A CONFRONTATIONAL STAND TOWARDS PEKING WAS COUNTER-PRODUCTIVE AND NOT IN OUR BEST OR LONG-TERM INTEREST.
HE SAID HONG KONG PEOPLE SHOULD .RECOGNISE THAT THEY HAD A SIGNIFICANT PART TO PLAY IN ENSURING THE SUCCESS OF THE ONE-COUNTRY, TWO SYSTEMS BLUEPRINT.
HE SAID PEOPLE NEEDED TO DEMONSTRATE THE CONFIDENCE THAT THEY COULD MAKE IT A SUCCESS BEFORE THEY COULD EXPECT THE WORLD AT LARGE TO SHOW CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE SUCCESS AND VIABILITY OF HONG KONG.
MR TAI ALSO SAID THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT FOR THE PUBLIC TO CONCENTRATE THEIR THOUGHTS AND EFFORTS TOWARDS HAVING A REALISTIC, PRACTICAL AND DEMOCRATIC ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE FOR LOCAL PEOPLE TO GOVERN THEMSELVES AFTER 1997.
TURNING TO MEDICAL SERVICES, MR TAI SAID THAT NO ’DOUBT COST EFFECTIVENESS AND EFFICIENCY WERE VERY MUCH IN THE MIND OF THE PROVISIONAL HOSPITAL AUTHORITY IN PROMOTING ITS POLICY, BUT THE STAFF MORALE WAS NOW VERY LOW BECAUSE OF A LACK OF CAREER PROSPECTS AND A POOR SALARY SCALE.
/HE SAID .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
_ 19 -
HE SAID IT WAS IMPORTANT TO HAVE A DEDICATED MEDICAL WORK FORCE IF WE WERE TO ACHIEVE A HIGH QUALITY OF SERVICE AND HEALTH-CARE DEVELOPMENT.
"IF WE WANT TO MAKE A SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT TO THE QUALITY OF OUR MEDICAL SERVICES, WE CANNOT AFFORD TO HAVE AN OPEN-FOR-ALL HEALTH CARE PROVISION, EVEN WITH A SUBSIDISED MEDICAL SERVICE.
"THE POLICY BRANCH SHOULD EXAMINE THE PROS AND CONS OF A NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME," HE SAID.
REGARDING THE PROVISION OF WELFARE SERVICES AT PRESENT BURDENED BY A SHORTAGE OF MANPOWER AND LOW MORALE, MR TAI SAID THE PRESENT SALARY SCALE AND PROMOTION PROSPECTS SHOULD BE REVIEWED.
HE ALSO SAID THAT DUE TO THE CHANGING OF THE FAMILY STRUCTURE, THE WELFARE PROGRAMME SHOULD PAY' MORE ATTENTION TO OTHER WAYS IN WHICH FAMILY FUNCTIONS COULD BE STRENGTHENED, SUCH AS MORE DAY-CARE PROGRAMMES FOR CHILDREN AS WELL AS SERVICES AIMED AT HELPING FAMILIES WITH PROBLEMS, SUCH AS FAMILY COURTS AND FAMILY DROP-IN CENTRES.
NOTING THAT JUVENILE DELINQUENCY IN THE NEW TOWNS WAS AN INCREASING PROBLEM, MR TAI SAID THAT THERE WAS AN URGENT NEED TO STRENGTHEN COUNSELLING SERVICES.
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BRAIN DRAIN AND EMIGRATION PROBLEMS DISTURBING
*****
THE ESTIMATED NUMBERS OF HONG KONG PEOPLE WHO ARE EMIGRATING OR ARE EXPECTED TO EMIGRATE ARE TOO HIGH FOR THE WELL-BEING OF HONG KONG, AND THE "BRAIN DRAIN" ARISING FROM EMIGRATION IS EVEN MORE DISTURBING, THE HON ROSANNA TAM SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MRS TAM SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE POLICY DEBATE THAT HONG KONG’S FUTURE DEPENDED ON WHETHER THE PEOPLE WOULD STAY TO PLAY A PART IN IT.
"AND THIS IS WHY WE MUST PROVIDE THEM NOT ONLY WITH INCENTIVES BUT WITH THE CONFIDENCE TO STAY," SHE SAID.
SHE NOTED THAT ONE WAY TO ACHIEVE THIS WAS BY RESTORING FULL BRITISH CITIZENSHIP TO HONG KONG BRITISH SUBJECTS SO THAT THEY COULD REMAIN RESIDENT IN HONG KONG WITHOUT FEAR FOR THEIR WELFARE AFTER 1997 .
SHE SAID THE JOINT DECLARATION HAD STATED THAT DURING THE CURRENT PERIOD OF TRANSITION, THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED KINGDOM WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF HONG KONG WITH THE OBJECT OF MAINTAINING AND PRESERVING ITS ECONOMIC PROSPERITY AND SOCIAL STABILITY.
/"STEMMING THE
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 20 -
’’STEMMING THE OUTFLOW OF HUMAN RESOURCES FROM THE TERRITORY BY THE BESTOWAL OF BRITISH CITIZENSHIP IS, WE BELIEVE, THE MOST PRACTICABLE AND SATISFACTORY WAY OF ACHIEVING THAT OBJECT. ANYTHING LESS — AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED KINGDOM IS FALLING DOWN ON THE JOB," SHE SAID.
MRS TAM EMPHASISED THAT ANY SELECTION AT ALL OF CATEGORIES OR INDIVIDUALS FOR GRANTING THE RIGHT OF ABODE IN BRITAIN WOULD BE DIVISIVE.
’’THE MOST GENEROUS POSSIBLE SCHEME IS ONE WHICH GIVES THE RIGHT OF ABODE TO ALL HONG KONG BRITISH SUBJECTS, AND THAT IS THE SCHEME TO WHICH I AM FIRMLY COMMITTED,” SHE SAID.
TURNING TO THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION TO SET UP A COMMISSION ON YOUTH, MRS TAM SAID THE MOVE CLEARLY AFFIRMED THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT.
SHE SUGGESTED THAT ONE ASPECT WHICH MUST RECEIVE SPECIAL ATTENTION IN YOUTH DEVELOPMENT WAS CIVIC AND POLITICAL EDUCATION.
’’MUCH NEEDS TO BE DONE TO ENHANCE SOCIAL AND POLITICAL AWARENESS AND INCREASE THE QUANTITY AND QUALITY OF POLITICAL PARTICIPATION AMONG THE POPULATION; AND IT IS TO THE YOUTH OF TODAY THAT WE SHALL INCREASINGLY TURN TO SUPPLY THE CALIBRE OF LEADERSHIP AND POLITICAL UNDERSTANDING THAT WILL BE REQUIRED."
TO ACHIEVE THIS, MRS TAM SUGGESTED THAT THE LEGAL VOTING AGE SHOULD BE LOWERED AND THE FRANCHISE EXTENDED TO ALL THOSE WHO HAD REACHED THE AGE OF 18.
SHE ALSO WANTED TO SEE MORE YOUNG PEOPLE HOLDING OFFICE IN DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION TO TAKE EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO ENABLE THE YOUTH OF HONG KONG TO BROADEN THEIR OUTLOOK THROUGH EXPOSURE TO INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE.
SHE SAID THE TIME HAD COME FOR IMPLEMENTING NOT ONLY THE NEW POLICY FOR YOUTH, BUT ALSO FOR REVIEWING HONG KONG’S SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES IN THEIR ENTIRETY. THE FORMULATION OF A SOCIAL WELFARE STRATEGY FOR THE 1990*S WAS URGENTLY NEEDED.
"WE NEED A DETAILED ANALYSIS OF THE TRENDS IN SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT TO ASCERTAIN WHETHER OUR PRESENT SERVICES ARE RELEVANT TO TODAY’S CONDITIONS AND WE MAY WELL NEED TO REDESIGN SERVICES AND CONSTANTLY RE-EVALUATE THEM SO AS TO ACCOMMODATE FUTURE SOCIAL CHANGE,” SHE SUGGESTED.
-------0 --------
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 21
CALL TO REVIEW SIXTH FORM EDUCATION
*****
DR THE HON DAN I EL TSE SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THERE MIGHT BE A NEED TO REVIEW THE CONTENT AND THE MODE OF DFI (VF’’Y OF SIXTH FORM EDUCATION FOLLOWING THE GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSAL TO ;'I\ND TERTIARY EDUCATION.
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE. DR TSE SAID IN A FEW YEARS TIME THE MAJOR I T) >! A-LEVEL STUDENTS WOULD ENTER TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS FOR DEGREE (’< ' J'SES, WHICH WOULD BE A REVERSED SITUATION FROM THAT AT THE TIME OF Till EDUCATION COMMISSION NO. 2 REPORT.
"IN Till LIGHT OF THIS DRAMATIC DEVELOPMENT. WOULD IT NOT BE PRUDENT TO I , XAMINE THE OBJECTIVE AND THE MODE OF DELIVERY OF SIXTH FORM EDUCATION TO MAKE SURE THAT THE MAJORITY OF THE STUDENTS ARE PROPERLY PREPARED TO TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF TERTIARY EDUCATION, WHILE THE OTHERS Wo LI) STILL GET THE BENEFIT OF PREPARATION FOR LIFE AND WORK?" HE SA] >.
DR TSE SAID THE PLAN TO EXPAND TERTIARY EDUCATION TO ALLOW 18 PER CENT OF THE RELEVANT AGE GROUP TO GET TERTIARY EDUCATION SHOWED THAT THE ASPIRATION OF THE COMMUNITY FOR HIGHER EDUCATION WAS GIVEN DUE RESPECT.
AND THE NEED FOR MORE DEGREE EDUCATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ECONOMY WAS GIVEN PROPER RECOGNITION, HE ADDED.
DR TSE SAID THE EXPANSION PLAN WOULD MEAN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS HAD TO RECRUIT SOME 2,700 SCHOLARS FOR TEACHING AND RESEARCH IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, TOGETHER WITH A COMPARABLE NUMBER OF OTHER STAFF.
THE RECRUITMENT OF TEACHING AND OTHER STAFF WOULD BE A CHALLENGE, BUT A WELCOME ONE, TO ALL THE TERTIARY’ INSTITUTIONS, HE SAID.
DR TSE SAID THE PROPOSED EXPANSION WOULD, EVENTUALLY, LEAD TO THE POSSIBLE LIBERALISATION OF SECONDARY EDUCATION.
"THE UNREASONABLE PRESSURE WILL BE GONE, SCHOOLS WILL BE FREE TO CLAIM THEIR RIGHTFUL PLACE AS EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS WHERE THE MIND AND THE CHARACTER OF THE YOUNG ARE DEVELOPED THROUGH PROPER LEARNING PROCESSES.
"I WOULD LIKE TO APPEAL TO THE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS AND TEACHERS TO TAKE A FRESH LOOK AT THE NEW HORIZON IN HONG KONG’S TERTIARY EDUCATION. SO THAT THEY CAN MAKE NECESSARY ADJUSTMENTS FOR THE HEALTH OF THE SCHOOLS AND THE WELL-BEING OF THE STUDENTS.
"TN THIS REGARD, I DO HOPE THAT THE DIRECT SUBSIDY SCHEME WHICH WILL BE INTRODUCED WILL ALLOW SOME INNOVATIVE SCHOOLS TO REALLY EXPERIMENT AND EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF PROVIDING HIGH QUALITY AND LIBERALISING EDUCATION TO OUR YOUNG PEOPLE." HE SAID.
ON PRE-PRJMARY EDUCATION, DR TSE SAID THAT ALMOST ALL CHILDREN IN HONG KONG WOULD GO THROUGH KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION AND THERE WAS A NEED TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION TN KINDERGARTEN.
0 -
/22
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 1, 1989
22 MEMBERS SPEAK IN POLICY DEBATE *****
TWENTY-TWO MEMBERS SPOKE IN THE FIRST DAY OF DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) ON THE GOVERNOR'S ANNUAL POLICY ADDRESS.
THE SITTING BEGAN AT 2.30 PM AND ENDED AT 8.10 PM.
A FURTHEI 23 MEMBERS ARE LISTED TO SPEAK WHEN THE DEBATE RESUMES TOMORROW.
THE MOTION BEFORE THE COUNCIL. THAT THE GOVERNOR BE THANKED FOR HIS ANNU .1 .DURESS, WAS MOVED BY THE SENIOR MEMBER, THE HON ALLEN LEE.
THIRD REPORT ON HONG KONG SUBMITTED TO UN
******
HONG KONG’S THIRD REPORT TO THE UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE WAS TABLED AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"THE UNITED KINGDOM SUBMITTED THE REPORT ON HONG KONG, TOGETHER WITH REPORTS ON THE UNITED KINGDOM AND OTHER DEPENDENT TERRITORIES, TO THE SECRETARY GENERAL OF THE UNITED NATIONS LAST WEDNESDAY (OCTOBER 25)," A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
"ENGLISH AND CHINESE COPIES OF THE REPORT HAVE BEEN PLACED AT ALL PUBLIC LIBRARIES FOR PUBLIC INFORMATION AND COPIES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT THE MARKETING OFFICE OF THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, CENTRAL, HONG KONG," HE SAID.
"THE REPORTS WILL BE STUDIED BY THE UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE WHICH WILL THEN SET A DATE TO MEET A DELEGATION FROM THE UNITED KINGDOM AND DEPENDENT TERRITORIES TO DISCUSS THE REPORTS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE REPORT ON HONG KONG COVERS THE MEASURES THAT HAVE BEEN ADOPTED TO GIVE EFFECT TO THE RIGHTS RECOGNISED IN THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS AND ON THE PROGRESS MADE SINCE THE SUBMISSION OF THE LAST REPORT.
THE SPOKESMAN NOTED THAT THE GOVERNOR, IN HIS ADDRESS AT THE OPENING OF 1989-90 SESSION OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL LAST MONTH, SAID THAT A BILL OF RIGHTS WOULD BE ENACTED TO GIVE EFFECT IN LOCAL LAW TO THE RELEVANT PROVISIONS OF THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS.
"THE GOVERNMENT’S PLAN IS TO PUBLISH A DRAFT BILL FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION BY THE END OF THE YEAR AND TO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION BY JULY 1990," HE ADDED.
THE UNITED KINGDOM LAST SUBMITTED ITS REPORTS ON THE DEPENDENT TERRITORIES INCLUDING HONG KONG IN AUGUST LAST YEAR. THEY WERE DISCUSSED BY THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE LAST NOVEMBER.
/2J
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
23
MONETARY STATISTICS FOR SEPTEMBER PUBLISHED » * * t *
ACCORDING TO STATISTICS PUBLISHED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE MONETARY AFFAIRS BRANCH, BOTH HONG KONG DOLLAR AND FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS WITH AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS INCREASED IN SEPTEMBER COMPARED WITH AUGUST.
IN LINE WITH THE RISE IN HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS, HONG KONG DOLLAR MONEY SUPPLY ON ALL DEFINITIONS REGISTERED INCREASES DURING SEPTEMBER.
TOTAL LOANS AND ADVANCES EXTENDED BY AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS INCREASED IN SEPTEMBER COMPARED WITH AUGUST. MOST MAJOR CATEGORIES OF LOANS, EXCEPT LOANS FOR TRADE FINANCING, RECORDED INCREASES DURING SEPTEMBER.
AN ANALYSIS OF LOANS FOR USE IN HONG KONG BY SECTOR INDICATES THAT LOANS TO WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE AND INDIVIDUALS FOR OTHER PURPOSES SHOWED NEGATIVE GROWTH IN THE THIRD QUARTER WHILE GROWTH IN LOANS TO FINANCE MANUFACTURING SLOWED DOWN IN THE THIRD QUARTER AS COMPARED TO THE SECOND QUARTER.
TABLE 1 SETS OUT SUMMARY FIGURES FOR SEPTEMBER 1989 AND COMPARISONS WITH EARLIER MONTHS. TABLE 2 PRESENTS FIGURES FROM THE QUARTERLY ANALYSIS OF LOANS AND ADVANCES FOR USE IN HONG KONG.
DEPOSITS
HONGKONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS WITH AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS INCREASED BY 2.1 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER, FOLLOWING AN INCREASE OF 0.3 PER CENT IN JULY AND A DECLINE OF 0.4 PER CENT IN AUGUST.
OF THESE DEPOSITS, DEMAND AND SAVINGS DEPOSITS ROSE BY 10.8 PER CENT AND 2.3 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY WHILE TIME DEPOSITS DROPPED BY 0.1 PER CENT. DURING THE 12 MONTHS ENDING AUGUST 1989, TOTAL HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS GREW BY 17.8 PER CENT.
FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS WITH AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS ROSE BY 0.8 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER, FOLLOWING AN INCREASE OF 2.2 PER CENT IN JULY AND AN INCREASE OF 1.1 PER CENT IN AUGUST.
AMONG THESE DEPOSITS, U.S. DOLLAR DEPOSITS DECLINED BY 0.6 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER WHILE NON-U.S. DOLLAR GREW BY 2.4 PER CENT. OVER THE YEAR, TOTAL FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS INCREASED BY 22.7 PER CENT.
FOREIGN CURRENCY SWAP DEPOSITS GREW BY 4.1 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER, AFTER INCREASES OF 3.5 PER CENT AND 0.6 PER CENT IN JULY AND AUGUST RESPECTIVELY. ADJUSTED TO INCLUDE THESE DEPOSITS, HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS INCREASED BY 2.4 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER AND BY 22.1 PER CENT COMPARED WITH A YEAR EARLIER.
/ON THE .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 24 -
ON THE OTHER HAND, FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS, ADJUSTED TO EXCLUDE SWAP DEPOSITS, INCREASED BY 0.4 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER AND BY 19.5 PER CENT OVER THE YEAR.
DEPOSITS OF ALL CURRENCIES WITH BANKS ROSE BY 1.3 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER WHILE THOSE WITH DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES INCREASED BY 1.7 PER CENT. OVER THE 12 MONTHS ENDING SEPTEMBER 1989, THE FORMER ROSE BY 22.1 PER CENT WHILE THE LATTER GREW BY 4.8 PER CENT.
MONEY SUPPLY
HKSM1, HKSM2 AND HKSM3 GREW BY 7.4 PER CENT, 2.4 PER CENT AND 2.0 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN SEPTEMBER. THEIR CORRESPONDING GROWTH RATES IN AUGUST WERE 0.8 PER CENT, 0.1 PER CENT AND -0.3 PER CENT. DURING THE 12 MONTHS ENDING SEPTEMBER 1989, HKSM1, HKSM2 AND HK8M3 ROSE BY 13.8 PER CENT, 19.2 PER CENT AND 17.3 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
ADJUSTED TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF SWAP DEPOSITS, HKJM2 GREW BY 2.6 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER AND BY 23.3 PER CENT COMPARED WITH A YEAR EARLIER. HKSM3 INCREASED BY 2.3 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER. AND BY 21.3 PER CENT OVER THE YEAR.
TOTAL Ml, M2 AND M3 GREW BY 7.0 PER CENT, 1.3 PER CENT AND 1.3 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN SEPTEMBER. THEIR CORRESPONDING GROWTH RATES IN AUGUST WERE 0.3 PER CENT, 0.7 PER CENT AND 0.5 PER CENT. OVER THE YEAR, TOTAL Ml, M2 AND M3 GREW BY 11.8 PER CENT, 21.8 PER CENT AND 20.5 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
LOANS AND ADVANCES
TOTAL OUTSTANDING LOANS AND ADVANCES EXTENDED BY AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS GREW BY 11.3 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER, FOLLOWING A DECREASE OF 0.4 PER CENT IN JULY AND AN INCREASE OF 2.5 PER CENT IN AUGUST. OF THE TOTAL OUTSTANDING LOANS, THOSE DENOMINATED IN HONG KONG DOLLARS GREW BY 1.4 PER CENT WHILE THOSE DENOMINATED IN FOREIGN CURRENCIES INCREASED BY 19.5 PER CENT.
LOANS TO FINANCE VISIBLE TRADE OF HONG KONG FELL BY 4.1 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER, FOLLOWING A FALL OF 0.2 PER CENT IN JULY AND AN INCREASE OF 2.5 PER CENT IN AUGUST. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 21.5 PER CENT.
OTHER LOANS FOR USE IN HONG KONG GREW BY 1.2 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER COMPARED WITH INCREASES OF 1.9 PER CENT AND 1.8 PER CENT IN JULY AND AUGUST RESPECTIVELY. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 34.3 PER CENT.
LOANS FOR USE OUTSIDE HONG KONG GREW BY 30.2 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER, AFTER. A FALL OF 5.4 PER CENT IN JULY AND AN INCREASE OF 4.0 PER CENT IN AUGUST. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 42.4 PER CENT.
/LOANS TO
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
LOANS TO FINANCE MERCHANDISING TRADE NOT TOUCHING HONG KONG INCREASED BY 11.4 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER, AFTER AN INCREASE OF 3.1 PER CENT IN JULY AND A FALL OF 5.8 PER CENT IN AUGUST. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 49.2 PER CENT.
IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1989, LOANS AND ADVANCES EXTENDED TO THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR ROSE BY 0.7 PER CENT AFTER AN 8.6 PER CENT INCREASE IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 27.6 PER CENT.
LOANS TO THE WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE DECREASED BY 4.8 PER CENT FOLLOWING AN INCREASE OF 0.7 PER CENT IN THE SECOND QUARTER. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 21.6 PER CENT.
LOANS TO FINANCIAL CONCERNS (OTHER THAN BANKS AND DTC’S) ROSE BY 10.8 PER CENT THIS QUARTER, FOLLOWING AN INCREASE OF 6.1 PER CENT IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 61.6 PER CENT.
LOANS TO INDIVIDUALS FOR THE PURCHASE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY (OTHER THAN FLATS IN THE HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME) GREW BY 5.0 PER CENT THIS QUARTER, AFTER AN INCREASE OF 4.0 PER CENT IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTER. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 25.4 PER CENT.
LOANS TO THE BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT SECTOR INCREASED BY 5.7 PER CENT IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1989, FOLLOWING A GROWTH OF 8.6 PER CENT IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER. OVER THE YEAR, THESE LOANS INCREASED BY 116.5 PER CENT
NUMBER OF REPORTING INSTITUTIONS
THE NUMBER OF REPORTING LICENSED BANKS INCREASED BY FOUR TO 166. THE NUMBER OF LICENSED DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES AND REGISTERED DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES REMAINED UNCHANGED AT 35 AND 208 RESPECTIVELY.
/TABLE 1
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 26 -
TABLE 1 : MONETARY STATISTICS - SEPTEMBER 1989
(HKSmn)
Sep 1989 Earlier months (% change to September 1989)
Money Supply Aug 1989
Jun 1989 Sep 1988
Ml - HKS 85,383 79,478 ( 7.4%) 78,459 ( 8.8 %) 75,009 ( 13.8 %)
Foreign currency 8,989 8,695 ( 3.4 %) 9,365 ( -4.0 %) 9,409 ( -4.5 %)
Total 94,372 88,172 ( 7.0%) 87,823 ( 7.5%) 84,418 ( 11.8 %)
M2 - HKS 387,027 377,983 ( 2.4%) 375,639 ( 3.0%) 324,671 ( 19.2 %)
Foreign currency 536,745 534,011 ( 0.5 %) 516,186 ( 4.0%) 433,681 ( 23.8 %)
Total 923,772 911,994 ( 1.3 %) 891,825 ( 3.6%) 758,352 ( 21.8 %)
M3 ,HK$ 419,243 410,901 ( 2.0 %) 411,364 ( 1.9%) 357,261 ( 17.3 %)
Foreign currency 572,346 567,824 ( 0.8%) 550,262 ( 4.0%) 465,925 ( 22.8 %)
Total 991,588 978,724 ( 1.3 %) 961,626 ( 3.1%) 823,186 ( 20.5 %)
Notes and coins in circulation 36,668 36,192 ( 1.3 %) 36,727 ( -0.2 %) 31,549 ( 16.2 %)
of which held by public 32,271 31,563 ( 2.2 %) 31,721 ( 1.7%) 27,563 ( 17.1 %)
Total Deposits
Total Demand deposits 62,101 56,610 ( 9.7%) 56,102 ( 10.7 %) 56,855 ( 9.2 %)
Total Savings deposits 175,364 173,163 ( 1.3 %) 172,232 ( 1.8 %) 162,590 ( 7.9%)
Total Tine deposits with banks 637,212 633,727 ( 0.5 %) 614,635 ( 3.7%) 496,856 ( 28.2 %)
Total Time deposits with dtcs 65,770 64,694 ( 1.7%) 67,744 ( -2.9 %) 62,781 ( 4.8 %)
HK$ deposits 374,378 366,626 ( 2.1 %) 366,942 ( 2.0 %) 317,813 ( 17.8 %)
l'S$ deposits 300,585 302,263 ( -0.6 %) 297,824 ( 0.9%) 248,013 ( 21.2 %)
Other foreign currency deposits 265,483 259,305 ( 2.4%) 245,946 ( 7.9%) 213,256 ( 24.5 %)
.Ml deposits 940,446 928,194 ( 1.3 %) 910,713 ( 3.3 %) 779,082 ( 20.7 %)
Foreign currency swap deposits 61,982 59,561 ( 4.1 %) * 57,200 ( 8.4%) 39,527 ( 56.8 %)
Total Ijoans and advances »
To finance U.K.'s visible trade 64,423 67,201 ( -4.1 %) 65,687 ( -1.9 %) 53,010 ( 21.5 %)
To finance merchandising trade 10,023 8,998 ( 11.4 %) 9,262 ( 8.2 %) 6,719 ( 49.2 %)
not touching H.K. •
Other loans for use in H.K. 561,481 554,892 ( 1.2%) 535,224 ( 4.9%) 418,022 ( 34.3 %)
Other loans for use outside H.K. 503,896 386,980 ( 30.2 %) 393,037 ( 28.2 %) 353,784 ( 42.4 %)
Other loans where the place of 90,043 87,277 ( 3.2%) 79,789 ( 12.9 %) 64,430 ( 39.8 %)
use is not known
Loans in HK$ 507,120 500,363 ( 1.4%) 485,485 ( 4.5%) 372,506 ( 36.1 %)
Loans in foreign currencies 722,744 604,986 ( 19.5 %) 597,514 ( 21.0 %) 523,460 ( 38.1 %)
Total loans and advances 1,229,865 1,105,349 ( 11.3 %) 1,082,999 ( 13.6 %) 895,966 ( 37.3 %)
/TABLE 2
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 27 -
i »
TABLE 2 : QUARTERLY ANALYSIS OF LOANS FDR USE IN HONG KCNG 6Y SECTOR - SEPTEMBER 1989
(HKSmn)
Sep 1989 Earlier quarters
-------- (% change to September 1989)
Jun 1989 Mar 1989 Sep 1988
Manufacturing 47,618 47,291 ( 0.7 %) 43,529 ( 9.4 %) 37,324 ( 27.6 %)
Transport and transport 33,435 27,043 ( 23.6 %) 26,608 ( 25.7 %) 23,140 ( 44.5 %)
equipment Building, construction, 96,772 91,518 ( 5.7 %) 84,243 ( 14.9 %) 44,697 (116.5 %)
property development and investment Wholesale and retail trade 62,729 65,874 ( -4.8 %) 65,390 ( -4.1 %) 51,579 ( 21.6 %)
Financial concerns * 74,919 67,625 ( 10.8 %) 63,740 ( 17.5 %) 46,370 ( 61.6 %)
Individuals: to purchase flats in the Heme 9,880 9,209 ( 7.3 %) 8,887 ( 11.2 %) 8,147 ( 21.3 %)
O-nership Scheme and Private Sector Participation Schene to purchase other residential 89,957 85,635 ( 5.0 %) 82,327 ( 9.3 %) 71,710 ( 25.4 %)
property other purposes 52,756 53,420 ( -1.2 %) 50,920 ( 3.6 %) 52,100 ( 1.3%)
Others 93,414 87,608 ( 6.6 %) 83,103 ( 12.4 %) 82,955 ( 12.6 %)
Total 561,481 535,224 ( 4.9 °f>) 508,748 ( 10.4 %) 418,022 ( 34.3 %)
U Starting fran December 1988, more detailed statistics on loans to the transport sector, to building, construction, property development and investment and to financial concerns are available. They will be published in the Monthly Digest of Statistics from the January 1989 issue onwards.
+ In December 1988, the return for reporting loans for use by sector was revised. As a result of this, sane authorized institutions have now more properly classified their loans according to intended usage rather than the business of the loan recipients. This reclassification is an important reason accounting for the significant increase in loans to certain sectors, for example, the building, construction and property development sector and financial concerns.
* This excludes funds advanced to banks and deposit-taking companies
-----0------
/?8........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
28
1989 PILOT CENSUS TO START ON FRIDAY *****
THE PUBLIC WAS REMINDED TODAY' (WEDNESDAY) THAT A PILOT CENSUS INVOLVING SOME 40,000 HOUSEHOLDS WILL BE CONDUCTED DURING THE NEXT 10 DAYS STARTING FRIDAY.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT SAID THE PURPOSE OF THE PILOT CENSUS WAS TO TEST THE VARIOUS ASPECTS OF A FULL POPULATION CENSUS OPERATION TO BE CONDUCTED IN MARCH 1991.
DURING THE 10-DAY OFFICERS WILL VISIT 40,000 BASIC INFORMATION SUCH AS HOUSEHOLD.
PERIOD FROM NOVEMBER 3 TO 12, CENSUS RANDOMLY SELECTED HOUSEHOLDS TO OBTAIN AGE, SEX AND RELATIONSHIP TO HEAD OF
AMONG THE SAMPLED HOUSEHOLDS, ONE-SEVENTH WILL IN ADDITION BE ASKED MORE DETAILED QUESTIONS SUCH AS HOUSING AND RENT, AND QUESTIONS CONCERNING THEIR MEMBERS, SUCH AS MARITAL STATUS, EDUCATION ATTAINMENT, PLACE OF BIRTH, NATIONALITY, DURATION OF RESIDENCE, LABOUR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS AND INCOME.
THE 40,000 HOUSEHOLDS WERE SELECTED FROM NINE DISTRICTS, NAMELY: EASTERN, MONG KOK, YAU TSIM, KOWLOON CITY, WONG TAI SIN, TSUEN WAN, ISLANDS, KWUN TONG, AND TAI PO. DIFFERENT DISTRICTS HAVE BEEN SELECTED TO ENABLE OPERATIONAL PROBLEMS OF DIFFERENT NATURE TO BE STUDIED IN THE PILOT CENSUS.
A SHORT QUESTIONNAIRE HAS BEEN POSTED TO SIX-SEVENTHS OF THE SAMPLED HOUSEHOLDS FOR THEM TO FILL IN THEMSELVES AND THE COMPLETED QUESTIONNAIRES WILL BE COLLECTED BY THE CENSUS OFFICERS.
HOUSEHOLDS SELECTED FOR THE DETAILED ENUMERATION, HOWEVER, WILL NOT RECEIVE A QUESTIONNAIRE IN ADVANCE. IT WILL BE FILLED IN BY THE CENSUS OFFICERS DURING THEIR VISIT TO THE HOUSEHOLDS.
THE LEGAL BASIS FOR CONDUCTING THE PILOT CENSUS IS THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS ORDINANCE 1978. A CENSUS AND STATISTICS ORDER FOR THE OPERATION WAS MADE BY THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL. UNDER THE ORDINANCE, IT IS A LEGAL OBLIGATION FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO ANSWER THE CENSUS QUESTIONS CORRECTLY AND ACCURATELY TO THE BEST OF THEIR KNOWLEDGE.
THE SPOKESMAN ASSURED THE PUBLIC THAT ALL PERSONAL INFORMATION COLLECTED IN THE PILOT CENSUS WOULD BE TREATED IN STRICT CONFIDENCE AND WOULD NOT BE DISCLOSED TO ANY GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT OR PRIVATE ORGANISATION.
QUESTIONNAIRES CONTAINING PERSONAL PARTICULARS FROM THE PILOT CENSUS WILL BE DESTROYED BEFORE NOVEMBER NEXT YEAR.
/"LETTERS HAVE .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
"LETTERS HAVE BEEN SENT TO ALL SELECTED HOUSEHOLDS FOR THE PILOT CENSUS, INFORMING THEM OF THE NAMES (AND HONG KONG IDENTITY CARD NUMBERS) OF THE CENSUS OFFICERS WHO WILL VISIT THEM," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"CENSUS OFFICERS WILL IDENTIFY THEMSELVES WITH A CENSUS OFFICER CERTIFICATE OF IDENTITY.
"HOUSEHOLDERS SHOULD CHECK THEIR IDENTITY AGAINST THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THE LETTER BEFORE ADMITTING THEM INTO THEIR HOME," HE ADDED.
THE SPOKESMAN URGED THE PUBLIC TO CO-OPERATE AND PARTICIPATE IN THE PILOT CENSUS BY PROVIDING FULL AND ACCURATE INFORMATION.
A HOTLINE SERVICE HAS BEEN SET UP TO ANSWER ANY ENQUIRY WHICH HOUSEHOLDERS MAY HAVE CONCERNING THE PILOT CENSUS. THEY MAY TELEPHONE 5-564091 OR 5-564472 FOR ENQUIRIES.
-----0-----
AIMS AND DIRECTION OF SPORTS DEVELOPMENT IN HK * * * * *
THE PROVISIONAL SPORTS DEVELOPMENT BOARD (PSDB) IS FORMALLY ESTABLISHED TODAY (NOVEMBER 1) TO PAVE THE WAY FOR THE SETTING UP OF THE SPORTS DEVELOPMENT BOARD (SDB) IN APRIL NEXT YEAR.
SPEAKING AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE HONG KONG SPORTS PRESS ASSOCIATION THIS AFTERNOON, THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR AUGUSTINE CHUI, INTRODUCED THE ROLE OF THE PSDB AND SDB AND THEIR IMPORTANCE TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF SPORTS IN HONG KONG.
"THE PROVISIONAL BOARD IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARING THE NECESSARY LEGISLATION AND MAKING ALL THE ADMINISTRATIVE, FINANCIAL AND STAFFING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE STATUTORY BOARD SO THAT IT WILL BE ABLE TO FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY FROM DAY ONE.
"THE DUTIES OF THE SDB INCLUDE CO-ORDINATING A TERRITORY-WIDE SPORTS DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY, ENCOURAGING CO-OPERATION AMONG THE MAJOR SPORTS ORGANISATIONS AS WELL AS STRENGTHENING COMMUNICATION AND CONSENSUS AMONG THESE BODIES TO ENSURE A BALANCED DEVELOPMENT IN THE TRAINING OF LOCAL ELITE ATHLETES AND IN THE PROMOTION OF SPORTS AT THE GRASSROOT LEVEL," HE SAID.
MR CHUI SAID THE SDB, TO BE FORMALLY SET UP ON APRIL 1, 1990, WOULD ENJOY A HIGH DEGREE OF INDEPENDENCE AND AUTONOMY. IT WOULD SEEK TO IMPROVE THE STANDARDS OF AND SERVICES FOR SPORTS THROUGH AN ANALYTICAL REVIEW OF CURRENT PROBLEMS.
MR CHUI POINTED OUT SOME IMPORTANT ASPECTS . OF SPORTS DEVELOPMENT WHICH REQUIRED EARLY ATTENTION.
/THESE INCLUDED
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
JO
THESE INCLUDED TRAINING OF ELITE ATHLETES; PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION OF SPORTS VENUES; PROMOTION OF SPORTS ACTIVITIES AT THE DISTRICT LEVEL; PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ELITE ATHLETES TO PARTICIPATE IN INTERNATIONAL EVENTS SO AS TO ENHANCE HONG KONG’S INTERNATIONAL STATUS IN SPORTS; ASSISTING GOVERNING BODIES OF SPORTS TO STRENGTHEN THEIR ADMINISTRATION AND DRAW UP LONG-TERM DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES; AND ENCOURAGING SPONSORSHIP OF SPORTS ACTIVITIES BY THE PRIVATE SECTOR.
ON THE TRAINING OF ELITE ATHLETES, MR CHUI SAID IT WOULD BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE WHICH WOULD ALSO PROVIDE TRAINING FOR COACHES AND SPORTS ADMINISTRATORS. IT WAS INTENDED THAT THE CENTRE WOULD EVENTUALLY BECOME AN INSTITUTE OF SPORT.
HE SAID THE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION OF SPORTS VENUES WOULD REMAIN UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THE URBAN AND REGIONAL COUNCILS.
ON THE FORMULATION OF THE SPORTS DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY, THE SDB WOULD CONSULT AND WORK CLOSELY WITH THE TWO MUNICIPAL COUNCILS TO STRIVE FOR CONSENSUS SO AS TO ACHIEVE THE MAXIMUM UTILISATION OF RESOURCES IN THE BEST OVERALL INTEREST OF SPORTS, HE SAID.
"I MUST STRESS THAT THE POINTS MENTIONED HERE ARE MERELY BROAD CONCEPTS AND POLICY VISION," MR CHUI SAID.
"THE FORMULATION OF STRATEGY, ITS DETAILED PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION, THE DISTRIBUTION OF RESOURCES AND THE DETERMINATION OF PRIORITIES WILL BE TAKEN UP BY THE SDB AFTER ITS ESTABLISHMENT.
"THE GOVERNMENT’S ROLE IS NOT TO INTERFERE BUT TO ASSIST, PARTICULARLY IN MAKING AVAILABLE NECESSARY RESOURCES FROM THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS," HE SAID.
MR CHUI STRESSED THAT THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH AND THE SDB WOULD WORK TOGETHER CLOSELY.
"THE FUTURE OF SPORTS DEVELOPMENT IN HONG KONG WILL STILL DEPEND ON THE COMMUNITY’S RECOGNITION OF THE IMPORTANCE OF SPORT," HE ADDED.
-----0 ------
APA ADVISED TO WORK TOWARDS DEGREE GRANTING STATUS
******
THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS ADVISED THAT THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS (APA) SHOULD WORK TOWARDS BECOMING A DEGREE GRANTING INSTITUTION SUBJECT TO VALIDATION BY THE HONG KONG COUNCIL FOR ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION, A SPOKESMAN FOR. THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"THE ADVICE CAME AFTER FULL CONSIDERATION OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY AN INDEPENDENT ACCREDITATION ADVISORY PANEL COMPRISING INTERNATIONAL EXPERTS FROM PERFORMING ARTS INSTITUTIONS IN AUSTRALIA, CHINA, UNITED KINGDOM, AND THE UNITED STATES, CHAIRED BY DR RAYSON HUANG.
/"THE PANEL ......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
"THE PANEL SOUGHT TO EVALUATE THE APA’S ABILITY TO ACHIEVE APPROVED OBJECTIVES, ITS OVERALL LEVEL IN PROFESSIONAL TRAINING, . ITS COMPARABILITY WITH OTHER RELEVANT INSTITUTIONS OVERSEAS,
ITS AND HE
EXPLAINED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID DEGREES WERE NOW CUSTOMARY PERFORMING ARTS COURSES IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, CHINA AND THE THAT IN THE UK DEGREES WERE NOW BECOMING COMMON AS AWARD FOR TERTIARY EDUCATION IN PERFORMING, TECHNICAL AND
IN
USA,
MOST AND
APPROPRIATE
FINE ARTS.
IN HONG KONG, DEGREE COURSES AT THE APA WOULD STUDENTS WHO AT PRESENT SOUGHT QUALIFICATION OVERSEAS, HE ---------------------------------------------------..j 0F THE
WOULD ALSO GO SOME WAY TOWARDS ENHANCING THE STATUS ARTS IN HONG KONG, WHICH WERE BECOMING INCREASINGLY
HELP RETAIN SAID. THEY PERFORMING
IMPORTANT IN THE
TERRITORY’S DEVELOPING CULTURAL SCENE.
------o--------
SURVEY FINDINGS SHOW KWAI TSING NEEDS CIVIC CENTRE » » t » »
MORE THAN 95 PER CENT OF THE RESPONDENTS TO A SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD CONSIDERED THAT A CIVIC CENTRE SHOULD BE BUILT IN THE DISTRICT FOR CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES.
THE MAJORITY AGREED THAT THE IDEAL VENUE WOULD BE THE GOVERNMENT SITE ADJACENT TO THE KWAI FONG MTR STATION.
AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TO ANNOUNCE THE SURVEY RESULTS TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT BOARD’S CIVIC CENTRE WORKING GROUP, MR SO HOI-PAN, SAID THE POLL WAS CONDUCTED IN AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR.
ABOUT 15,000 QUESTIONNAIRES WERE RETURNED FROM THE 35,000 DISTRIBUTED TO SECONDARY AND PRIMARY SCHOOLS, AREA COMMITTEES, MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES, VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND RESIDENTS OF THE DISTRICT.
THE RESPONSE RATE WAS AROUND 42 PER CENT, MR SO SAID.
HE SAID AT PRESENT THE THREE ESTATE COMMUNITY CENTRES AND FOUR COMMUNITY HALLS IN THE DISTRICT PROVIDED THE VENUES FOR HOLDING CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES.
HOWEVER, EXPERIENCE IN THE PAST THREE YEARS INDICATED THAT THESE CENTRES COULD NOT ATTRACT THE TARGET AUDIENCE BECAUSE OF THEIR INCONVENIENT LOCATIONS, UNSATISFACTORY LIGHTING, AND POOR ACOUSTICS AND STAGES.
MR SO SAID THE LIMITED SEATING CAPACITY AT THESE CENTRES ALSO MADE IT NOT COST-EFFECTIVE TO ORGANISE EVENTS THERE, HE SAID.
/THE CIVIC
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 32 -
THE CIVIC CENTRE WORKING GROUP CONCLUDED THAT A CIVIC CENTRE WITH A THEATRE, A LECTURE HALL, AN EXHIBITION HALL AND SEVERAL REHEARSAL ROOMS WAS ESSENTIAL TO THE DISTRICT.
MR SO SAID THE SURVEY RESULTS TOGETHER WITH A PROPOSAL TO BUILD A CIVIC CENTRE AT THE SITE ADJACENT TO THE KWAI FONG MTR STATION WOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THE REGIONAL COUNCIL FOR CONSIDERATION.
--------0 ---------
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS
*******
THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD'S ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS A NUMBER OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS IN THE PAK TIN AREA AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
THESE INCLUDE THE MANAGEMENT OF A REFUSE COLLECTION POINT, PARKING SPACES FOR GOODS VEHICLES, SALT WATER SUPPLY AT PAK TIN ESTATE AND THE PROBLEM OF OVERGROWTH AT THE JUNCTION OF PAK TIN STREET AND PUI TAK STREET.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO CONSIDER IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SHAM SHUI PO PARK’S REFRESHMENT KIOSK AND THE YEN CHOW STREET TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA. THE LATTER, WHICH IS NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION, IS EXPECTED TO BE AFFECTED BY THE NOISE GENERATED BY THE NEARBY CHEUNG SHA WAN WHOLESALE FISH MARKET.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE SHEK KIP MEI COMMUNITY HALL, BLOCK 42, SHEK KIP MEI ESTATE, NAM CHEONG STREET.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.
- 0 ----------
/33........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 53 -
LRT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA ♦ ♦ ♦ * *
THE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD WILL BE BRIEFED ON THE 1990-91 LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME IN THE DISTRICT AT ITS MEETING ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 3).
THE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO DISCUSS A WIDE RANGE OF TRANSPORT MATTERS. INCLUDING GOODS VEHICLE PARKING AT LONG PING ESTATE. TRANSPORT FACILITIES FOR KAI TEI. AND CAR PARKING FACILITIES AND VILLAGE ACCESS FOR HANG HAU TSUEN IN SAN TIN.
A PROGRESS REPORT PREPARED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ON CONSTRUCTION WORKS AND TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE TABLED.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE TO BE HELD ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 3) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM, 13TH FLOOR, YUEN LONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 2 KIU LOK SQUARE, YUEN LONG.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM.
-----0-----
DB COMMITTEE TO REVIEW TRAFFIC CONDITIONS
THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE WILL REVIEW THE TRAFFIC CONDITIONS IN KWUN TONG AFTER THE OPENING OF THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
THE GENERAL MANAGER OF THE NEW HONG KONG TUNNEL LIMITED, MR VICTOR LEUNG, WILL ATTEND THE MEETING.
THE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO DISCUSS TRAFFIC PROBLEMS AT THE PING SHEK INTERCHANGE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, 6 TUNG YAN STREET. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- -MERCHANT FINED FOR USING INACCURATE WEIGHING INSTRUMENTS ******
A FRUIT MERCHANT WAS FINED $2,000 AT THE TSUEN WAN MAGISTRACY TODAY (WEDNESDAY) FOR USING INACCURATE WEIGHING INSTRUMENTS,
THIS WAS THE SECOND PROSECUTION BROUGHT UNDER THE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES ORDINANCE SINCE IT CAME INTO EFFECT ON JANUARY 1 THIS YEAR.
THE DEFENDANT PLEADED GUILTY TO A COUNT OF HAVING IN POSSESSION FOR USE OF TWO DEFECTIVE SLANTED DIAL SPRING BALANCES AS WEIGHING EQUIPMENT IN HIS RETAIL FRUIT BUSINESS.
THE COURT HEARD THAT OFFICERS OF THE TRADING STANDARDS INVESTIGATION BUREAU OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT, ACTING ON A COMPLAINT, CARRIED OUT AN INSPECTION IN THE DEFENDANT’S SHOP LOCATED ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF 80 CHUNG ON STREET, TSUEN WAN ON JANUARY 31, 1989.
AS A RESULT, TWO DEFECTIVE SPRING BALANCES WERE SEIZED AND WERE SUBSEQUENTLY FORFEITED.
ON MAY 31, 1989, THE OFFICERS CARRIED OUT ANOTHER INSPECTION IN THE SHOP AND FOUND TWO SLANTED DIAL SPRING BALANCES, WHICH WERE USED IN THE SELLING OF FRUITS.
A PRELIMINARY CHECK REVEALED THAT THOSE SPRING BALANCES WERE INACCURATE AND THE BALANCES WERE KEPT FOR FURTHER INQUIRIES.
GOVERNMENT LABORATORY EXAMINATION OF THE TWO SPRING BALANCES CONFIRMED THAT THEY WERE DEFECTIVE AND WERE NOT CAPABLE OF DETERMINING A WEIGHTACCURATELY.
THE HIGHEST ERRORS IN THE BALANCES WERE FOUND TO BE +24.56 PER CENT AND +8.47 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
IT MEANT THAT THE READINGS SHOWN ON THE SPRING BALANCES WERE RESPECTIVELY 24.56 PER CENT AND 8.47 PER CENT IN EXCESS OF THE ACTUAL WEIGHT OF THE GOODS.
THE CHIEF TRADE CONTROLS OFFICER OF THE CUSTOMS’ CONSUMER PROTECTION DIVISION, MR ANDREW WONG, SAID THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT HAD RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 67 COMPLAINTS CONCERNING WEIGHTS AND MEASURES DURING THE INITIAL NINE-MONTH IMPLEMENTATION PERIOD OF THE ORDINANCE.
"OF THESE COMPLAINTS, 37 ARE NOT SUBSTANTIATED, 21 ARE SUBSTANTIATED AND NINE OTHERS ARE STILL UNDER INVESTIGATION.
"AS FOR THE COMPLAINTS WHICH ARE SUBSTANTIATED, WRITTEN WARNINGS HAVE BEEN ISSUED TO 15 TRADERS, TWO TRADERS HAVE BEEN PROSECUTED AND FOUR OTHERS WILL BE PROSECUTED IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
/"THE ORDINANCE .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 35 -
"THE ORDINANCE CARRIES A MAXIMUM FINE OF 820,000 PLUS SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT," MR WONG SAID.
IF ANY PERSON WANTS TO MAKE ANY COMPLAINT ABOUT MALPRACTICES IN RESPECT OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES, HE MAY CONTACT EITHER THE TRADING STANDARDS INVESTIGATION BUREAU OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT (TEL. NO. 3—7146146) OR THE CONSUMER COUNCIL.
COMPLAINTS MAY ALSO BE MADE TO THE DUTY OFFICER OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 5-8523185 AFTER NORMAL OFFICE HOURS.
-----0-----
SCHOOL DRAMAS TO PROMOTE KEEP CLEAN MESSAGE * * * * *
WINNERS IN THE 1989-90 KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN INTER-SCHOOL DRAMA COMPETITION RECEIVED THEIR PRIZES TONIGHT (WEDNESDAY) AT A CEREMONY HELD AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE.
THE TWO-DAY COMPETITION, WHICH MARKED THE CLIMAX OF THE "CLEAN SCHOOL" PHASE OF THIS YEAR’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN, WAS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE JOINT URBAN COUNCIL/REGIONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
"WITH KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN AS ITS THEME, THE COMPETITION CALLS FOR STUDENTS’ SUPPORT IN DISSEMINATING THE KEEP CLEAN MESSAGE IN THE FORM OF DRAMA," A SPOKESMAN OF THE STEERING COMMITTEE SAID.
"IT ALSO AIMS AT ENHANCING STUDENTS’ CIVIC-MINDEDNESS THROUGH THE DRAMATISATION OF CHARACTERS AND INCIDENTS," HE ADDED.
THE COMPETITION WAS DIVIDED INTO TWO SECTIONS -- PRIMARY SCHOOL AND SECONDARY SCHOOL SECTIONS. PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS COMPETED FOR THE BEST PERFORMANCE. BEST SCRIPT. BEST DIRECTOR AND BEST PERFORMER AWARDS IN EACH SECTION.
"THE RESULT OF THE COMPETITION IS ENCOURAGING. MOST OF THE SCRIPT-WRITERS HAVE BEEN ABLE TO COMBINE EDUCATIONAL AND ENTERTAINING ELEMENTS IN A WELL-THOUGHT OUT AND ORIGINAL THEATRICAL PRODUCTION," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
SIX CELEBRITIES IN THE LOCAL THEATRICAL CIRCLE FORMED TWO PANELS FOR THE ADJUDICATION OF THE COMPETITION. THEY WERE MR CHAN YIU-HUNG, MR QUENTIN FONG AND MR WONG CHAU-SANG FOR THE SECONDARY SCHOOL SECTION: AND MS FU YUET-MEI. MR JAMES CHEUNG AND MR LAM SHEUNG-MO FOR THE PRIMARY SCHOOL SECTION.
/"THE ADJUDICATORS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
"THE ADJUDICATORS GENERALLY FELT THAT THE STUDENTS HAVE DISPLAYED THEIR HUMOUR. IMAGINATION AND KEEN OBSERVATION OF REAL LIFE SITUATIONS BOTH IN THEIR SCRIPTS AND IN THE PORTRAYAL OF THE CHARACTERS,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
OFFICIATING AT TONIGHT’S PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY WERE CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT URBAN COUNC1L/REGIONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE, DR PANG HOK-TUEN; VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE STEERING COMMITTEE, MR TONG KAM-BIU; AND DEPUTY CHIEF INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, MRS C.H. KONG.
IN THE SECONDARY SCHOOL SECTION, HOL PING CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SECONDARY SCHOOL WON THE FIRST PRIZE OF BEST PERFORMANCE IN ADDITION TO WINNING THE BEST SCRIPT AND BEST DIRECTOR AWARDS.
THE SECOND PRIZE OF BEST PERFORMANCE WENT TO KAU YAN COLLEGE WHICH ALSO RECEIVED THE BEST PERFORMER AWARD, PUI KIU MIDDLE SCHOOL WON THE THIRD PRIZE OF BEST PERFORMANCE, WHILE METHODIST COLLEGE AND PENTECOSTAL LAM HON KWONG SECONDARY SCHOOL RECEIVED MERIT PRIZES.
IN THE PRIMARY SCHOOL SECTION, PO YAN SCHOOL (AM), N.T.W.J.W.A. LEUNG SING TAK PRIMARY SCHOOL (PM) AND N.T.W.J.W.A. LEUNG SING TAK PRIMARY SCHOOL (AM) WERE THE CHAMPION, FIRST RUNNER-UP AND SECOND RUNNER-UP FOR THE BEST PERFORMANCE AWARD RESPECTIVELY.
WONG TAI SIN GOVERNMENT PRIMARY PM SCHOOL WAS THE MERIT PRIZE WINNER.
PO YAN SCHOOL (AM) WAS ALSO AWARDED THE PRIZE OF BEST SCRIPT WHILE N.T.W.J.W.A. LEUNG SING TAK PRIMARY SCHOOL (PM) WON BOTH PRIZES FOR BEST DIRECTOR AND BEST PERFORMER IN ADDITION TO THEIR PRIZES FOR BEST PERFORMANCE.
IN THIS SECTION, TWO PRIZES FOR BEST PERFORMER WERE AWARDED AND THE OTHER PRIZE WINNER WAS CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT PRIMARY PM SCHOOL.
AFTER THE CEREMONY, THE FIRST
PERFORMANCE FROM BOTH SECTIONS PRESENTED
PRIZE WINNERS OF BEST
THEIR PLAYS TO THE AUDIENCE.
-----0-------
TRAINING COURSE FOR STEAM RECEIVER OPERATORS
*****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL ORGANISE A TRAINING COURSE JOINTLY WITH THE MAKING WONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE FOR STEAM RECEIVER OPERATORS IN MID-NOVEMBER TO ENSURE SAFETY IN THE USE OF THE EQUIPMENT.
THE COURSE IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE OPERATORS WITH THE NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE OF THE CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION, MAINTENANCE . AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS OF THE MOST COMMON STEAM RECEIVERS USED IN INDUSTRY.
/ACCORDING TO
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
- 37 -
ACCORDING TO STATISTICS COMPILED BY THE DEPARTMENT, FOUR WORKERS WERE KILLED IN THREE ACCIDENTS INVOLVING THE USE OF STEAM RECEIVERS, ALSO KNOWN AS KIERS, IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS.
IT WAS FOUND THAT THE ACCIDENTS WERE DUE MAINLY TO THE LACK OF DIRECT SUPERVISION BY COMPETENT PERSONS WITH RELEVANT CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY DURING THE OPERATION OF THE KIERS.
THE KIERS WERE LEFT MERELY IN THE HANDS OF UNQUALIFIED OPERATORS WHO HAD LITTLE KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS OF THEIR OPERATIONAL SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS.
APPLICATION FORMS FOR THE COURSE ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE HAKING WONG TECHNICAL INSTITUTE AT 702 LAI CHI KOK ROAD, KOWLOON. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL. 3-615161 EXT. 121.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, APPLICANTS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE PRESSURE EQUIPMENT DIVISION OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AT HARBOUR BUILDING, 17TH FLOOR, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL OR ON TEL. 5-8524189.
-----0------
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR KING’S ROAD RECONSTRUCTION *****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 3). THE FOLLOWING ROAD SECTIONS IN NORTH POINT WILL BE DESIGNATED URBAN CLEARWAYS ROUND-THE-CLOCK FOR ABOUT SIX MONTHS BECAUSE OF THE RECONSTRUCTION OF KING’S ROAD:
* KING’S ROAD EASTBOUND BETWEEN SHELL STREET AND OIL STREET;
* OIL STREET BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH KING’S ROAD AND A POINT ABOUT 40 METRES TO THE NORTH; AND
* THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF SHELL STREET BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH KING’S ROAD AND A POINT ABOUT 10 METRES TO THE WEST.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREAS.
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/38........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 1989
TEMPORARY URBAN CLEARWAY ON CONDUIT ROAD t I * * t
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 3), THE EXISTING 24-HOUR URBAN CLEARWAY ON THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF CONDUIT ROAD IN THE MID-LEVELS FROM A POINT ABOUT EIGHT METRES WEST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH CASTLE ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 74 METRES TO THE EAST (EXCLUDING THE LAYBY OUTSIDE HOUSE NUMBER 54), WILL REMAIN IN FORCE FOR ANOTHER SIX WEEKS.
THIS MEASURE IS NECESSARY FOR CARRYING OUT DRAINAGE WORKS THERE.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREA.
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING:
PRACTICAL ACTION TO PROMOTE HK AS INTERNATIONAL CITY ... 1
NEED TO REBUILD CONFIDENCE ............................. 2
POLITICAL PARTIES INEVITABLE ........................... 4
CALL TO REBUILD HK'S IMAGE ABROAD....................... 5
TERTIARY EXPANSION PROGRAMME A BLESSING FOR YOUNG ...... 7
ASSURANCES FOR CIVIL SERVICE URGED .................... 8
RIGHT OF ABODE CAMPAIGN WILL CONTINUE................... 9
HEALTH POLICY NEEDS COMPLETE REVIEW .................... 11
ADOPTION OF OMELCO MODEL FOR POLITICAL REFORM URGED..... 13
POLICY ON IMPORTING LABOUR SHOULD BE RELAXED............ 15
STABLE POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT KEY TO PROSPERITY ......... 17
TRIPARTITE EFFORT URGED TO DISPEL DISTRUST ............. 18
MEMBERS COMPLETE SPEECHES IN POLICY DEBATE ............. 20
HK'S MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS REMAIN COMPETITIVE ............ 21
AUGUST RESULTS OF RETAIL SALES SURVEY RELEASED ........... 22
SECOND QUARTER SURVEY ON EXPORTS TO CHINA FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING ................................................ 25
LEAFLET ON ROYAL VISIT FOR RELEASE ON MONDAY ............ 26
SPECIAL STAMP ISSUE TO COMMEMORATE ROYAL VISIT............ 26
NEW DO TO VISIT ISLANDS RURAL COMMITTEES ................. 27
SEMINAR IN EASTERN ON RULE OF LAW........................ 28
SEMINAR TO REVIEW PRESSURE EQUIPMENT SAFETY ............. 28
PUBLICITY MOUNTED FOR SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ......... 29
YUEN LONG ARTS FESTIVAL OPINS TOMORROW ................... 30
UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES IN KENNEDY TOWN TO BE CLOSED...... 31
LEI YUE-"MUN FERRY FARE AND TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN TSUEN WAN . 31
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF STADIUM PATH ........................ 31
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
PRACTICAL ACTION TO PROMOTE HK AS INTERNATIONAL CITY
* t t ♦ ♦
STRENGTHENING AND PROMOTING HONG KONG AS AN INTERNATIONAL CITY IS A CORNERSTONE OF OUR FUTURE, THE HON MARTIN BARROW SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE SECOND DAY OF DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR'S POLICY ADDRESS. MR BARROW SAID DEVELOPING THE STATUS OF HONG KONG AS AN INTERNATIONAL CITY WAS A CREATIVE, POSITIVE AND OPTIMISTIC THEME THAT COULD RALL> AND INSPIRE THE COMMUNITY OF HONG KONG AS WELL AS OUR INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS AND CHINA ITSELF.
THOUGH HONG KONG WAS ALREADY A FLOURISHING INTERNATIONAL CITY IN MANY RESPECTS, THERE WAS STILL MUCH PRACTICAL ACTION THAT WE COULD TAKE TO ACHIEVE THIS VISION OF HONG KONG, HE SAID.
MR BARROW SUGGESTED THAT WE MUST ACHIEVE A HIGHER STANDARD OF ENGLISH: MUST HAVE THF FLEXIBILITY TO ALLOW PEOPLE WITH PARTICULAR SKILLS AND KNOW-HOW To COME INTO HONG KONG; MUST AVOID PROTECTIONISM AMONG THF PROFESSIONS AND SHOULD ENCOURAGE INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES, SUCH AS BRANCHES OF THE UNITED NATIONS, TO HAVE REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS HERE.
HF. ALSO SAID THAT WE MUST TAKE GREATER STEPS TO DEVELOP HONG KONG’S INTERNATIONAL IMAGE.
THE ALREADY ACTIVE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT ECONOMIC OFFICES AROUND THF WORLD SHOULD BE STRENGTHENED WITH PROFESSIONAL OUTSIDE HELP, AND THEY SHOULD WORK MORE CLOSELY WITH THE TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL AND THE TOURIST ASSOCIATION.
MEANWHILE, HELP SHOULD BE SOUGHT FROM THE MANAGEMENT OF THOSE HONG KONG COMPANIES WHICH HAD BUSINESSES IN SOME OF THE MAJOR CITIES OF THF WORLD, IN PUTTING OVER THE HONG KONG MESSAGE.
"THIS ACTIVITY SHOULD BE IN PARALLEL TO THE INITIATIVES WHICH ARE BEING TAKEN IN HONG KONG SUCH AS SETTING UP AN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COMMITTEE, WHICH IS A WELCOME DEVELOPMENT," HE ADDED.
HE ALSO SAID HONG KONG PEOPLE SHOULD DEVOTE TIME WHILE ON INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL TO PROMOTING HONG KONG WHENEVER THE APPROPRIATE OPP0RTUNIT IES AROSE.
NOTING THAT THE JOINT DECLARATION NOT ONLY ALLO D HONG KONG’S INTERNATIONAL CHARACTER TO CONTINUE BUT ALSO ENCOURAG ' IT TO GROW AND FLOURISH, MR BARROW SAID THAT IT WAS NECESSARY To UNDERLINE THE CRUCIAL DISTINCTION BETWEEN STRENGTHENING HONG KONG AS AN INTERNATIONAL CITY AND THE POLITICALLY MORE COMPLEX POINT CONCERNING THE INTERNATIONALISATION OF THE ISSUE OF HONG KONG’S FUTURE.
TURNING TO THE FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR AS A VITAL ELEMENT OF THF. INTERNATIONAL CITY THEME, MR BARROW STRESSED THE NEED TO STRENUOUSLY AVOID OVER-REGULATION WHICH COULD STIFLE THE VIGOUR AND INNOVATION OF OUR MARKETS.
/"HONG KONG
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
2
"HONG KONG GREW INTO AN IMPORTANT FINANCIAL CENTRE BECAUSE THERE WERE A MINIMUM NUMBER OF RULES INHIBITING BUSINESS, RATHER THAN BECAUSE IT HAD A COMPREHENSIVE REGULATORY SYSTEM," HE SAID.
"IN REVIEWING COMPLIANCE WITH EXISTING REGULATIONS AND PLANS FOR FUTURE LEGISLATION, IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THERE SHOULD BE COMMONSENSE HANDLING OF SITUATIONS AS THEY ARISE AND THE AVOIDANCE OF NIT-PICKING," HE ADDED.
HE URGED THE GOVERNMENT NOT TO STRAY AWAY FROM HONG KONG’S BASIC PHILOSOPHY, AND TO ENSURE THE REGULATORY ORGANISATIONS BOTH WITHIN AND OUTSIDE GOVERNMENT REMAINED LEAN AND TIGHTLY MANAGED, WITH A SENSIBLE APPROACH TO REALITIES.
ON INFRASTRUCTURE AND DEVELOPMENT, MR BARROW SAID THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF A NEW AIRPORT AND RELATED DEVELOPMENTS WAS WELCOME NEWS TO THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE AND TO THE TOURISM INDUSTRY IN PARTICULAR.
HOWEVER, IN PARALLEL WITH THESE MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS, HE SAID WE MUST KEEP UP THE OTHER IMPROVEMENTS WHICH WERE SO VITAL TO MAINTAINING HONG KONG AS AN EXCITING AND VIBRANT CITY FOR VISITORS AND CONTINUE TO OFFER A HIGH STANDARD OF SERVICE.
THESE INCLUDED THE ONGOING IMPROVEMENTS AT KAI TAK OVER THE NEXT TWO OR THREE YEARS; THE NEED TO ENSURE THE LAYOUT OF THE NEW RECLAMATION GAVE HONG KONG AN EXCITING AND COLOURFUL WATERFRONT; THE COMMITMENT TO TRAINING AND EDUCATION AS WELL AS SOME FLEXIBILITY IN IMMIGRATION POLICY; THE PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF ARTS AND CULTURE.
-------o--------
NEED TO REBUILD CONFIDENCE
* * * * t
THERE IS AN URGENT NEED TO REBUILD CONFIDENCE: CONFIDENCE IN OURSELVES AND CONFIDENCE OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COMMUNITY IN US, THE HON EDWARD HO SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY I .
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, MR HO SAID THE RESTORATION OF CONFIDENCE IN HONG KONG’S FUTURE LAY ULTIMATELY IN MUTUAL TRUST AND UNDERSTANDING AMONG CHINA, HONG KONG AND BRITAIN.
HE SAID IT WAS IMPORTANT TO HAVE MUTUAL TRUST IN THE WILL AND DETERMINATION ON THE PART OF ALL THREE GOVERNMENTS TO MAINTAIN HONG KONG’S PROSPERITY AND STABILITY, AND TO HAVE MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE CONCERNS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
/IT WAS ......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 5 -
IT WAS ALSO IMPORTANT TO HAVE MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE DISTINCTIVE NATURE OF THE POLITICAL, ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL SYSTEMS OF HONG KONG AND CHINA, AND TO HAVE MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE TRUE MEANING OF "ONE COUNTRY, TWO SYSTEMS".
TURNING TO EDUCATION, MR HO WELCOMED THE GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSAL TO EXPAND THE PROVISION OF FIRST-YEAR, FIRST-DEGREE PLACES WITHOUT DECREASING SUB-DEGREE PLACES.
IN ORDER TO ATTRACT SUITABLY QUALIFIED TEACHING STAFF WITHOUT CAUSING UNDESIRABLE STAFF MOVEMENTS BETWEEN THE POST-SECONDARY INSTITUTIONS, HE SUGGESTED THAT THE TWO POLYTECHNICS AND THE BAPTIST COLLEGE SHOULD BE ACCORDED THE SAME STATUS AS THE UNIVERSITIES, AND SHOULD BE RENAMED TO REFLECT THAT STATUS.
HE CALLED ON THE GOVERNMENT TO CONSIDER THE PROVISION OF MORE SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS FOR STUDENTS TO STUDY OVERSEAS ON CONDITION THAT THEY WOULD RETURN TO HONG KONG TO WORK FOR A GIVEN NUMBER OF YEARS AFTER GRADUATION.
HE SAID YOUNG PEOPLE ALREADY IN EMPLOYMENT SHOULD BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITIES TO RECEIVE ON THE JOB TRAINING AND FURTHER EDUCATION SO THAT THEY COULD BE EQUIPPED TO OCCUPY MORE RESPONSIBLE POSITIONS LEFT VACANT BY THOSE WHO HAD EMIGRATED.
"TAX INCENTIVES TO EMPLOYERS WHO PROVIDE SUCH OPPORTUNITIES SHOULD BE CONSIDERED," HE SUGGESTED.
ON INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT, HE SAID THAT WHILE TOP PRIORITY SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW AIRPORT, ITS ASSOCIATE SUPPORT SERVICES AND TRANSPORT LINKS, IT WOULD BE SENSIBLE FOR OTHER DEVELOPMENTS TO BE PHASED TO MINIMISE THE IMPACT ON RESOURCES.
HE CAUTIONED AGAINST OVER-RELIANCE ON FINANCIAL RETURNS ON SALES OF LAND TO FINANCE THE INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT.
WITH THE HARBOUR RECLAMATION, RELOCATION OF THE AIRPORT AND DEVELOPMENT OF PORT FACILITIES, MR HO SUGGESTED THAT WE SHOULD TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES GAINED TO IMPROVE OUR URBAN ENVIRONMENT.
HE SAID THE METROPLAN UNDER PREPARATION SHOULD ENSURE THAT FUTURE URBAN DEVELOPMENT WOULD CONTAIN ADEQUATE OPEN SPACE, PARKS, PUBLIC AND CIVIC AMENITIES, AND ADEQUATE ROAD RESERVES TO SERVICE A TRULY ATTRACTIVE CITY OF THE FUTURE FOR ITS INHABITANTS.
"WE SHOULD RE-EXAMINE THE HONG KONG PLANNING STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES TO ENSURE THAT THESE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS WOULD BE PROVIDED," HE ADDED.
MR HO ALSO SUGGESTED THAT OPPORTUNITY SHOULD BE TAKEN TO IMPROVE THE ENVIRONMENT BY RELOCATING POLLUTING INDUSTRIES TO NEW INDUSTRIAL ZONES NEAR THE NEW AIRPORT, AWAY FROM RESIDENTIAL AREAS.
MEANWHILE, THE PROPOSAL TO BUILD A NEW TOWN NEAR THE NEW AIRPORT SHOULD BE LOOKED AT VERY CAREFULLY FROM THE ENVIRONMENTAL POINT OF VIEW, HE SAID.
------o-------
A.......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 4 -
POLITICAL PARTIES INEVITABLE * * * *
THE HON RONALD ARCL’LLl SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT FORMATION OE POLITICAL PARTIES WILL BE INEVITABLE AND ESSENTIAL AS HONG KONG MOVES TOWARDS GREATER POLITICAL MATURITY.
HOWEVER, HE SAID HONG KONG HAD TO AVOID HAVING TOO MANY POLITICAL PARTIES BECAUSE THERE WAS AN INHERENT DANGER THAT IF THERE WAS NO UNITY WITHIN PARTIES, THE STABILITY OF THE LEGISLATURE MIGHT BE AFFECTED.
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, MR ARCL’LLl SAID HE NOTED THAT SOME OF HIS LEGCO COLLEAGUES HAD TAKEN THE INITIATIVE TO FORM POLITICAL PARTIES.
HE HOPED VARIOUS LIBERAL GROUPS WOULD IRON OUT THEIR DIFFERENCES TO REORGANISE THEMSELVES INTO A SINGLE COHESIVE AND CREDITABLE PARTY AND NOT MERELY BECAME AN AMALGAM OF GROUPS WITHOUT TRUE UNITY.
"WE MUST AVOID TOO MANY POLITICAL PARTIES FOR THERE IS AN INHERENT DANGER: IT MAY RESULT IN THE LEGISLATURE BEING CONTROLLED BY A MINORITY GROUP ACTING IN CONCERT OR AT LEAST HAVE SUBSTANTIAL INFLUENCE.
"WE MUST THEREFORE BE ALERT TO SOME OF THE PITFALLS OF POLITICAL ADVANCEMENT AND REALISE THAT WE WILL HAVE TO WORK VERY HARD TO OBTAIN SUCH STABILITY," HE SAID.
MR ARCL’LLl ALSO URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO ACCEPT THE PROPOSALS IN THE OMELCO CONSENSUS FOR 1991 AND 1995 WHEN DECIDING ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT.
BESIDES DEVELOPMENTS IN THE LEGISLATURE AND THE EXECUTIVE, HE ALSO SUGGESTED THE GOVERNMENT HAD TO CONSIDER REFORMS IN THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS AND DISTRICT BOARDS.
"THERE IS A CASK FOR SYNCHRONISING THE PACE OF DEVELOPMENT IN THESE BODIES WITH THAT OF THIS COUNCIL SO THAT BY 1995 ALL THEIR MEMBERS WOULD ALSO BE ELECTED BY ONE MEANS OR ANOTHER.
"THERE IS NOT MUCH TIME AND AN URGENT DECISION IS REQUIRED. IT IS THE EXPECTATION OF THE COMMUNITY," HE SAID.
MR ARCULLI SAID CHINA WOULD BENEFIT FROM HONG KONG'S DEVELOPMENT INTO AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE AS A LOT OF INVESTMENT IN CHINA WAS MADE BY HONG KONG OR THROUGH IT.
HE NOTED THAT THERE MIGHT SOMETIMES BE UNDUE WORRIES AND OCCASS1ONALLY HICCUPS IN SINO-HONG KONG RELATIONSHIPS.
/BUT MOST .......
5
BUT MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL WAS FOR HONG KONG TO ENSURE THE CONCEPT OF THE "ONE COUNTRY, TWO SYSTEM, HONG KONG PEOPLE RULING HONG KONG WITH A HIGH DEGREE OF AUTONOMY" WOULD WORK, AS IT WOULD BE MEASURED AGAINST INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS BECAUSE HONG KONG WAS AN INTERNATIONAL CITY.
ON FUTURE INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENTS AND OTHER PUBLIC SERVICES, MR ARCULLI SAID: "THESE AMBITIOUS PLANS WILL TEST HONG KONG'S RESILIENCE AND RESOURCEFULNESS AND WHILST I AGREE THAT WE CANNOT AFFORD NOT TO DO IT WE MUST NOT TAKE OUR EYES OFF THE EFFECT IT WILL HAVE ON OUR ECONOMY AND BE CAREFUL THAT WE DO NOT MORTGAGE OUR FUTURE FOR AN APPARENT DISPLAY' OF CONFIDENCE.
"WE HAVE BEEN TOLD OFTEN ENOUGH IN THE PAST THAT HONG KONG CANNOT AFFORD TO TAKE ON TOO MANY CAPITAL PROJECTS AS WE DO NOT WANT THE ECONOMY TO OVERHEAT OR THAT WE MUST BE FRUGAL IN TIMES OF GLOBAL ECONOMIC DOWNTURN.
"IF THOSE OBSERVATIONS WERE TRUE LET US NOT FORGET THEM IN THE YEARS TO COME."
------0 -------
CALL TO REBUILD HK'S IMAGE ABROAD *****
APART FROM THE NEED TO BUILD SELF CONFIDENCE, HONG KONG MUST URGENTLY ENSURE THAT THE WORLD COMMUNITY CONTINUES TO HAVE FAITH IN OUR FUTURE, THE HON PAUL CHENG SAID JN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, MR CHENG SAID HE NOTED IN HIS RECENT TRAVELS ABROAD THAT THERE HAD BEEN A TOTALLY WRONG PERCEPTION OF HONG KONG AROUND THE WORLD AFTER. THE -JUNE EVENTS IN PEKING.
HE STRESSED THAT TO REBUILD OUR IMAGE, WE MUST SERIOUSLY CONSIDER MOUNTING A CO-ORDINATED CAMPAIGN, AND SEEK PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE FROM A PUBLIC RELATIONS FIRM WITH A GLOBAL NETWORK.
CONVINCED THAT A TASK FORCE COMPOSED OF INDIVIDUALS FROM BOTH THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS SHOULD BE FORMED TO SPEARHEAD THIS EFFORT, MR CHENG SAID THAT UNLESS THIS WAS DONE, FOREIGN INVESTMENT WOULD SLIDE AND OUR STATUS AS AN INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL CENTRE WOULD BEGIN TO ERODE.
NOTING THAT MANY INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVES HAD MADE .A LONG TERM COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG, MR CHENG SAID WE SHOULD MAKE IT POSSIBLE FOR THOSE INTERESTED AND WILLING, TO BE MORE INVOLVED IN AN ADVISORY CAPACITY IN AREAS SUCH AS EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING, TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, THE ENVIRONMENT AND YOUTH PROGRAMMES.
/"WHERE APPROPRIATE .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
6 -
"WHERE APPROPRIATE AND NECESSARY, WE SHOULD ALSO WELCOME PROFESSIONALS AND SPECIALISTS FROM ABROAD TO PRACTICE AND WORK HERE,"
HE SAID.
MR CHENG SAID THAT IN TIMES OF UNCERTAINTY, HONG KONG NEEDED TO CULTIVATE AN ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT.
HE HOPED THAT ALL PARTIES CONCERNED - CHINA, BRITAIN, THE HONG KONG PEOPLE AND THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY WITH COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG - WOULD EXERCISE SELF-RESTRAINT TO AVOID CONFRONTATIONS.
"LET PRAGMATISM RULE THE DAY FOR IF WE CANNOT MAINTAIN HONG KONG’S ECONOMIC VIABILITY AND FREE ENVIRONMENT, ALL ELSE INCLUDING GETTING THE RIGHT POLITICAL MODEL MAY BECOME SECONDARY," HE SAID.
MR CHENG SAID IT WAS IN CHINA’S INTEREST TO TAKE THE INITIATIVE TO DO EVERYTHING POSSIBLE TO REINJECT CONFIDENCE INTO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
"BY RESPONDING POSITIVELY TO HONG KONG PEOPLE’S VIEWS ON THE DRAFTING OF THE BASIC LAW WILL GO A LONG WAY TO SHOW HER UNDERSTANDING, FLEXIBILITY AND SINCERITY TOWARDS THE SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE "ONE COUNTRY, TWO SYSTEMS" CONCEPT.
"A PROSPEROUS AND STABLE HONG KONG WILL HELP SPEED UP CHINA’S EVENTUAL EMERGENCE AS A WORLD POWER," HE ADDED.
TURNING TO PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE, MR CHENG SAID THAT THE PLANS OUTLINED IN THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS WOULD HELP MAINTAIN OUR ECONOMIC MOMENTUM AND REGAIN SOME OF OUR LOST CONFIDENCE.
DESCRIBING THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECT AS THE "HARDWARE", HE SAID, HOWEVER, THAT WE MUST GIVE EQUAL EMPHASIS TO DEVELOPING APPROPRIATE "SOFTWARE".
TO HIM, THE MORE CRITICAL "SOFTWARE" ISSUES INCLUDED EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING, THE ENVIRONMENT AND TECHNOLOGY.
ON EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING, MR CHENG SAID THAT IN INCREASING THE PLANNED PROVISION OF FIRST-YEAR, FIRST-DEGREE PLACES FROM 7,000 NEXT YEAR TO 15,000 IN 1995. IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT THIS WAS NOT DONE AT THE EXPENSE OF VOCATIONAL TRAINING.
HE SAID THAT WE NEEDED TO REVIEW THE SALARIES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE FOR THE TEACHING PROFESSION TO ATTRACT MORE PEOPLE INTO THE FIELD.
"WE MUST ALSO WELCOME TEACHERS FROM ABROAD TO HELP US RAISE OUR CHILDREN’S STANDARD OF ENGLISH AND WE MUST SEND MORE TEACHERS OVERSEAS TO UPDATE THEIR TEACHING TECHNIQUES AND SKILLS," HE SAID.
ON THE ENVIRONMENT, MR CHENG SAID HE WAS DELIGHTED TO SEE THAT MORE EFFORTS WOULD BE GIVEN TO ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION.
/"WE NEED
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 7 -
"WE NEED TO ACT QUICKLY AND WE NEED TO ENFORCE COMPLIANCE. GENTLE PERSUASION IS NOT GOING TO WORK." HE SAID.
ON TECHNOLOGY, HE SAID THE PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT OF A NEW HONG KONG TECHNOLOGY CENTRE WAS GOOD NEWS INDEED.
HE HOPED FOCUS WOULD BE ON APPLIED TECHNOLOGY, ON PRODUCT DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT RATHER THAN ON PURE BASIC RESEARCH.
"WE NEED TO FOSTER A . CLOSER LINK BETWEEN THE ACADEMIC
COMMUNITY AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR.
"WE ALSO NEED TO LOOK AT POSSIBLE SCHEMES TO ENCOURAGE MANUFACTURERS TO REINVEST IN TECHNOLOGY AND EQUIPMENT," HE SAID.
-----0-----
TERTIARY EXPANSION PROGRAMME A BLESSING FOR YOUNG t * * » »
THE TARGETS THE GOVERNOR OUTLINED IN HIS POLICY ADDRESS FOR THE PROVISION OF TERTIARY EDUCATION IN THE COMING YEARS ARE A BLESSING FOR OUR YOUNG PEOPLE, THE HON DAVID CHEUNG TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).
MR CHEUNG SAID IN THE POLICY DEBATE THAT FOR THE EXPANSION PROGRAMME TO SUCCEED, TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS MUST COME OUT OF THEIR "IVORY TOWERS", FOREGO THE NOSTALGIC RECOLLECTIONS OF THE PAST, AND DESIGN NEW PROGRAMMES AND CURRICULA TO SUIT THE NEEDS OF OUR YOUNG PEOPLE AND THOSE OF THE COMMUNITY.
HE SAID THAT CARE MUST BE TAKEN TO ATTAIN THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE ACADEMIC STANDARDS OF INTERNATIONAL STANDING.
NOTING THAT THERE WERE MANY YOUNG WORKING PERSONS WHO ASPIRED TO HIGHER ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS FOR THEIR CAREER ADVANCEMENT, MR CHEUNG URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR BUILDING ON EXISTING FACILITIES, BOTH’ IN THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS, BY PROVIDING MORE CO-ORDINATED INPUT TO STREAMLINE THE QUALITY OF THESE FACILITIES AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT.
HE WELCOMED WHOLE-DAY PRIMARY SCHOOLING AND HOPED THAT POSITIVE MEASURES WOULD BE TAKEN TO MAKE WHOLE-DAY SCHOOLS EDUCATIONALLY MEANINGFUL.
IN SECONDARY SCHOOL EDUCATION, HE WAS WORRIED THAT THE EXPANSION OF TERTIARY EDUCATION WOULD BE AT THE EXPENSE OF LOWER LEVELS OF EDUCATION.
HE NOTED THAT SECONDARY SCHOOLS WERE STILL WAITING ■ FOR FUNDS TO RE-INSTATE THE POST OF VICE-PRINCIPAL, TO COMPUTERISE ADMINISTRATION AND TO INCREASE LABOUR-SAVING EQUIPMENT FOR EFFICIENCY.
/IN LANGUAGE........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2. 1989
- 8 -
IN LANGUAGE MATTERS, MR CHEUNG REITERATED HIS VIEW THAT THE USE OF ENGLISH AS THE MAJOR MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION IN SCHOOLS WAS EDUCATIONALLY UNSOUND.
HE SAID THAT WE MUST DEVELOP FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE CHINESE STREAM A VIABLE ALTERNATIVE FOR FURTHER STUDIES AND BETTER EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS.
SAID THE GOVERNMENT MUST BE EXTREMELY CAUTIOUS IN IN ACCORDANCE WITH LANGUAGE ABILITY AT THE END OF SAID THIS WAS POLITICALLY UNACCEPTABLE AND WOULD
MR CHEUNG STREAMING PUPILS PRIMARY SIX. HE
BRING DISRUPTION TO THE EDUCATIONAL SCENE.
HE WELCOMED THE SETTING UP OF A COMMISSION ON YOUTH AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF A CHARTER FOR YOUTH.
ON HONG KONG'S FUTURE POLITICAL SYSTEM, MR CHEUNG SUPPORTED THE OMELCO CONSENSUS.
"IT WAS THE OUTCOME OF A GREAT AMOUNT OF GIVE AND TAKE AMONG MEMBERS WHO HAVE THE OVERALL WELL-BEING OF OUR COMMUNITY AT HEART AND WHO, IN THEIR RESPECTIVE FIELDS AND CONSTITUENCIES, REPRESENT A WIDE SPECTRUM OF OUR POPULACE.
"I EARNESTLY HOPE THAT THE GOVERNMENT WILL RESPOND POSITIVELY TO THIS AND SET IN TRAIN THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR EFFECTING THE NECESSARY CHANGES FROM 1991 ONWARDS," HE SAID.
-----0------
ASSURANCES FOR CIVIL SERVICE URGED
*****
THE GOVERNMENT MUST PROVIDE UNWAVERING AND CATEGORICAL ASSURANCES TO THE CIVIL SERVICE THAT CONDITIONS OF SERVICE, AND PARTICULARLY PENSIONS, WILL REMAIN INTACT AFTER THE TRANSFER OF SOVEREIGNTY, THE HON NELLIE FONG SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, MRS FONG SAID SHE STRONGLY BELIEVED THAT CERTAIN THINGS MUST BE DONE TO MAINTAIN THE QUALITY dF THE CIVIL SERVICE.
SHE SAID THE PRESENT CIVIL SERVICE ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE WAS MUCH TOO RIGID AND BUREAUCRATIC FOR THE DYNAMIC NEEDS OF HONG KONG. THERE WAS A NEED FOR INDIVIDUAL DEPARTMENTS TO BE GRANTED GREATER AUTONOMY AND FLEXIBILITY.
THERE WAS ALSO A NEED FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF RIGOROUS TRAINING AND MOTIVATIONAL SCHEMES, THE ENHANCEMENT OF PROMOTION PROSPECTS, IMPROVEMENT OF WORKING CONDITIONS AND INSTALLATION OF PROGRAMMES TO ENGENDER A RENEWED SENSE OF PRIDE AND ACHIEVEMENT IN BEING PART OF THE CIVIL SERVICE.
/’•AS 1997 ..........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
"AS 1997 APPROACHES, I HAVE EVERY CONFIDENCE THAT THE CIVIL SERVICE WILL CONTINUE TO BE THE BACKBONE OF THE TERRITORY, SETTING AN EXAMPLE FOR AN EFFICIENT, STABLE HONG KONG," SHE SAID.
ON THE POLICE FORCE, MRS FONG SAID THAT LAW AND ORDER WAS THE BOTTOM LINE FOR MANY PEOPLE, INCLUDING INVESTORS, IN REMAINING IN THE TERRITORY.
SHE THEREFORE BELIEVED THAT THE GOVERNMENT MUST DO ITS UTMOST TO BUILD UP AN EFFECTIVE, DISCIPLINED POLICE FORCE TO GUARD THE TERRITORY AGAINST UNCERTAINTIES IN THE INTERMEDIATE YEARS AND BEYOND 1997 .
ON THE ECONOMY, MRS FONG SAID CHINA WAS THE KEY TO HONG KONG'S SUCCESS.
"INTERNATIONAL BUSINESSMEN CANNOT, AND WILL NOT, IGNORE CHINA, AS AN ECONOMIC ENTITY, AND THAT GIVES US A WHOLE EXTRA LEVEL OF OPPORTUNITIES," SHE SAID.
SHE SAID THAT AS THE 21ST CENTURY DAWNED, INTERNATIONAL INVESTORS WOULD LOOK CLOSELY AT THE EXPANDING CHINESE ECONOMY. THEY WOULD LOOK TO HONG KONG AS THE PLACE TO SET UP THEIR CORE OFFICES FOR THEIR OPERATIONS AND EXPANSION INTO A MAJOR PART OF CHINA.
HONG KONG'S VALUE TO CHINA WENT FAR BEYOND ITS ENTREPOT FUNCTIONS FOR CHINA, AND FAR BEYOND THE CAPITAL THAT HONG KONG INVESTED TO USE CHINA AS A MANUFACTURING BASE FOR THE TERRITORY'S EXPORTS.
HONG KONG'S VALUE LAY IN ITS PEOPLE, IN HONG KONG PEOPLE’S ABILITY TO PROVIDE THE BRIDGE AND THE SUPPORT FUNCTION FOR INTERNATIONAL INVESTORS IN RELATION TO THEIR INVESTMENT IN CHINA, SHE SAID.
"IT IS THEREFORE ESSENTIAL THAT THIS GOVERNMENT DOES ALL IT CAN TO MAINTAIN AND ENHANCE THE STRENGTHS WE CURRENTLY POSSESS IN HONG KONG, AN INTERNATIONAL CITY WE PROUDLY CALL OUR HOME," SHE SAID.
- - 0
RIGHT OF ABODE CAMPAIGN WILL CONTINUE ******
UNTIL A SAFE AND SECURE FUTURE FOR ALL THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG IS GUARANTEED BY CONCRETE ACTION TAKEN OR LED BY BRITAIN, OMELCO MEMBERS WILL CONTINUE THEIR CRUSADE FOR RIGHT OF ABODE FOR HONG KONG PEOPLE, THE HON MIRIAM LAU SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY I THURSDAY).
ANY SCHEME WHICH RESTORED THE RIGHT OF ABODE FOR ONLY A LIMITED NUMBER OF PEOPLE WAS NOWHERE NEAR FULFILMENT BY ’ BRITAIN OF ITS OBLIGATION TO HONG KONG, MRS LAU SAID IN THE POLICY DEBATE.
/"I FIRMLY
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
10 -
"I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT THF STAND WHICH OMELCO HAS TAKEN REPRESENTS THE STAND OF HONG KONG PEOPLE, THAT IS THAT BRITAIN HAS A DIRECT AND CONSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITY TO RESTORE FULL BRITISH CITIZENSHIP TO OUR 3.25 MILLION BRITISH SUBJECTS IN HONG KONG AND A MORAL OBLIGATION TO PROVIDE A SAFE AND SECURE FUTURE FOR THE ENTIRE POPULATION," S HE SAID.
NO MATTER HOW FAIR BRITAIN THOUGHT THE SCHEME WAS, ANY DISCRIMINATORY AND ELITIST TREATMENT OF THOSE "SCREENED IN" MUST PROVOKE ACUTE RESENTMENT AMONG THOSE WHO WERE "SCREENED OUT".
THE RESULT WAS THAT DIVISIVENESS WITHIN THE SOCIETY COULD NOT BE AVOIDED. FRUSTRATION AND PERHAPS EVEN PANIC MIGHT ENSUE.
"HOW TO DEAL WITH AND PACIFY THE STRONG REACTIONS THAT WILL INEVITABLY ARISE OUT OF THAT DIVISIVENESS WILL BE A PROBLEM FOR THIS GOVERNMENT TO DEAL WITH," SHE SAID.
THE PRESENT ESCALATING RATE OF EMIGRATION WAS ALARMING AND GAVE REAL CAUSE FOR CONCERN.
HONG KONG WAS BLEEDING PROFUSELY AS ITS PROFESSIONALS, ENTREPRENEURS AND TALENTED PEOPLE' LEFT, AND UNLESS THE FLOW WAS ABATED, THE RESULTING ANAEMIA WAS BOUND TO EVENTUALLY DEBILITATE THE ECONOMY.
MRS LAU SAID ANOTHER AREA WHICH SEEMED TO HAVE DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY UNDERMINED PUBLIC CONFIDENCE WAS THE MANNER IN WHICH DEVELOPMENT OF THE SYSTEM OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT HAD BEEN ALLOWED TO TAKE AN INDECISIVE COURSE.
"INSTEAD OF OUR DEMOCRATIC PROCESS TAKING ITS NATURAL COURSE AT A PACE BEFITTING TO THF DEVELOPMENT OF OUR SOCIETY, THE PUBLIC PERCEPTION SEEMS TO BE SUCH THAT CHINA ACTUALLY DICTATES HOW MUCH DEMOCRACY HONG KONG SHOULD GET BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER 1997," SHE SAID.
SHE WAS DISAPPOINTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT, HAVING NOTED THE WIDELY HELD VIEW THAT THERE SHOULD BE A SOMEWHAT FASTER RATE OF DEVELOPMENT IN 1991, SHOULD NOT SEE FIT NOW TO ANNOUNCE THE REVISED COMPOSITION OF THE LEGISLATURE FOR THAT .YEAR.
THE OMELCO PROPOSAL FOR POLITICAL REFORM FOR 1991 REPRESENTED A MASTERPIECE OF COMPROMISE ARRIVED AT AFTER FULL ARGUMENT AND CAREFUL DELIBERATION.
IT WAS QUICK ENOUGHT FOR THE LIBERALS, SLOW ENOUGH FOR THE CONSERVATIVES AND FLEXIBLE ENOUGH TO ENABLE CONVERGENCE TO BE MADE WITH ALMOST ANY LATER MODEL UNDER THE POST-1997 POLITICAL INSTITUTION.
"WHAT OMELCO HAS PROPOSED CERTAINLY FALLS WITHIN THE PURVIEW OF THE JOINT DECLARATION AND I URGE GOVERNMENT TO PROSCRASTT.NATE NO FURTHER IN FINALISING THE POLITICAL SYSTEM FOR 1991 UPON THE LINES OF THE OMELCO CONSENSUS," SHE SAID.
/MRS LAU
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
11
MRS LAU WELCOMED THE GOVERNMENT’S INITIATIVE IN REGARD TO THE ENACTMENT OF A BILL OF RIGHTS.
WHAT WORRIED HER TO SOME EXTENT WAS THE FACT THAT THERE WOULD BE A FREEZE PERIOD, AS YET UNDEFINED, AFTER ENACTMENT OF THE BILL OF RIGHTS WHEN EXISTING LAWS COULD NOT BE CHALLENGED AGAINST THE STANDARD OF THE NEW BILL.
SHE SUGGESTED THAT THE FREEZE PERIOD SHOULD NOT EXCEED TWO YEARS, AND THAT WORK ON REVIEWING EXISTING LEGISLATION SHOULD COMMENCE WITHOUT AWAITING ENACTMENT OF THE BILL.
THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD ALSO GIVE SOME FORM OF UNDERTAKING THAT PENDING FULL ENACTMENT OF THE BILL OF RIGHTS, IT WOULD REFRAIN FROM ENFORCING THOSE EXISTING LAWS WHICH WERE INCONSISTENT WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE BILL.
- - 0 ----------
HEALTH POLICY NEEDS COMPLETE REVIEW *****
THERE IS A REAL AND URGENT NEED FOR A COMPLETE REVIEW OF THE HEALTH POLICY TN HONG KONG, DR THE HON LEONG CHE-HUNG SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).
DR LEONG SAID IN THE POLICY DEBATE THAT THE FAULTS OF THE EXISTING MEDICAL SERVICE LAY IN THE GOVERNMENT’S FAILURE TO DEMONSTRATE A STRONG COMMITMENT IN THE DELIVERY OF A SATISFACTORY MEDICAL SERVICE, AND IN THE LACK OF A WORKABLE POLICY FOR NOW, AND THE FUTURE.
"IT IS EXACTLY THESE TWO FAULTS THAT BROUGHT ABOUT THE DISCONTENT OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE DOCTORS CULMINATING IN THEIR INDUSTRIAL ACTION; THE DISPUTE OF THE SCHOOL MEDICAL SERVICE; THE SHAMBLES OF THE GOVERNMENT CLINICS AND HOSPITALS; THE WASTAGE RATE OF GOVERNMENT DOCTORS, THE OVER-SUPPLY OF DENTISTS AND,OF COURSE, THE DISSATISFACTION OF THE PUBLIC," HE SAID.
DR LEONG SAID IT WOULD REQUIRE A LOT OF HARD WORK TO REMEDY THIS SITUATION.
HE SAID THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY, THE PRIMARY HEALTH CARE WORKING PARTY AND THE ACADEMY OF MEDICINE WERE IMPORTANT BUT THEY WOULD NOT WORK WITHOUT FIRM GOVERNMENT CONVICTION.
"IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT GOVERNMENT SHOULD DEFINE ITS ULTIMATE OBJECTIVES IN THE PROVISION OF HEALTH CARE," HE SAID.
THE LAST WHITE PAPER ON MEDICAL POLICY: "FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES IN HONG KONG" WAS PUBLISHED SOME 15 YEARS AGO AND ANOTHER REVIEW WAS LONG OVERDUE, DR LEONG SAID.
/DR LEONG
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 12 -
DR LEONG SAID AN ISSUE THAT NEEDED DETAILED DELIBERATION WAS MEDICAL MANPOWER.
'’WITH THE EXPECTED EXODUS TN THE RUN UP TO 1 997, THERE WILL BE A CRISIS 01 MANPOWER SHORTAGE IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS.
"THE IDEA OF EMPLOYMENT FROM OVERSEAS WILL NEVER DO, FOR THEY WILL NEVER REPLACE THE LOSS OF EXPERTISE OF WELL TRAINED LOCAL STAFF," HE SAID.
DR LEONG BELIEVED THAT THE IDEA OF UTILISATION OF AVAILABLE MANPOWER FROM THE LARGE POOL OF PRIVATE DOCTORS DESERVED CONSIDERATION.
HE SAID THE RIGID BARRIER THAT DIVIDED THE MEDICAL SERVICE OF HONG KONG INTO EITHER COMPLETELY PRIVATE OR COMPLETELY PUBLIC WAS TO NOBODY’S BENEFIT. AND THE SITUATION COULD BE IMPROVED BY BETTER INTEGRATION OF THE PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTORS.
HE SUGGESTED OFFERING ALL DOCTORS WHO HAD REACHED CONSULTANT STATUS THE CHOICE OF FULL SALARY CONTRACTS; OR PART TIME CONTRACTS, OR SESSIONAL CONTRACTS FOR EXPERTISE ON OCCASIONAL NEEDS.
DR LEONG SAID THERE WAS A NEED FOR MEDICAL MANAGERS.
HE SAID WHILE THE ADMINISTRATION WAS TRYING TO PROMOTE A BETTER HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT CONCEPT THROUGH THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY, IT HAD FALLEN SHORT OF THE NEF.D FOR PEOPLE TO MANAGE 35 PUBLIC HOSPITALS.
ON MEDICAL FUNDING, DR LEONG SAID THREE ISSUES NEEDED TO BE PROPERLY ADDRESSED. THEY WERE THE SOURCE, THE DISTRIBUTION OF USE AND THE PROPER MANAGEMENT TO PROVIDE EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT UTILISATION.
HF SAID THAT UNDER THE CURRENT SYSTEM, THE FUND WAS POORLY MANAGED AS THERE WAS NO DEMAND TO PROVE COST-BENEFIT, COST-EFFECT!VENESS AND COST-EFFICIENCY.
FURTHERMORE, THERE WAS NO INCENTIVE FOR THE CLINICAL UNITS TO SAVE AS ALL UNUSED FUNDS WENT BACK TO GENERAL REVENUE.
"SERVICE AND CARE IS PROVIDED TO ALL IN A HAPHAZARD MANNER, THERE IS NO DESIGNATION OF WHOM IN THE COMMUNITY ARE ELIGIBLE FOR PUBLIC MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.
"SINCE THE AVAILABLE FUNDING RESOURCES WILL NOT BE ADEQUATE TO PROVIDE A COMPREHENSIVE CARE FOR ALL IN HONG KONG, AVAILABLE CARE WILL ONLY BE PROVIDED TO THOSE WHO ARE WILLING TO RECEIVE AND EVEN THEN ON A FIRST COME FIRST SERVED BASIS," HE SAID.
THE GOVERNMENT MUST GIVE A DEFINITE DIRECTION OF HEALTH ECONOMICS AND UNLESS SUCH FUNDING ISSUES WERE PROPERLY ADDRESSED, THE MERE IMPROVEMENT IN MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE AND STAFF BENEFIT OF THE PROPOSED HOSPITAL AND PRIMARY CARE SYSTEM WOULD NOT PROVIDE THE REFORMS THAT THE PUBLIC MEDICAL SERVICES NEEDED, HE SAID.
/DR LEONG
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
DR LEONG ALSO CALLED ON THE GOVERNMENT TO CONSIDER OTHER SOURCES OE FUNDING AND TO INTRODUCE SOME KIND OF A MEANS TEST TO IDENTIFY WHICH SECTOR OF THE POPULATION COULD NOT DO WITHOUT SUBSIDISED MEDICAL CARE.
AT THE SAME TIME, HE SAID, THE GOVERNMENT MUST DEFINE WHICH PART AND WHAT LEVEL OF THE MEDICAL SERVICES THAT IT WAS WILLING TO PROVIDE FOR EVERYBODY IN HONG KONG.
ON DENTAL SERVICE, DR LEONG REGRETTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD FAILED TO INTRODUCE A GENERAL DENTAL SERVICE DESPITE THE RECOMMENDATION FOR THIS IN THE WHITE PAPER ON MEDICAL DEVELOPMENT PUBLISHED 15 YEARS AGO.
ON POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT, HE SAID THAT WHATEVER POLITICAL MODEL THAT ONE LOOKED AT FOR THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG, IT MUST NOT HAVE ANY CONFLICTS WITH THE BASIC RIGHT THAT EVERY CITIZEN WAS ENSURED IN THEIR PARTICIPATION IN POLITICAL AFFAIRS.
"THE IMPORTANT ISSUES BEING THAT THE BASIC PRINCIPLES FOR ANY ELECTORAL SYSTEM SHOULD RE EQUAL, FAIR, OPEN AND FREE.
"THE OMELCO CONSENSUS ON THE POLITICAL STRUCTURE IN THE RUN UP TO 1997 AND BEYOND SATISFIES ALL THESE PRINCIPLES. WHAT IS MORE IS IT MATCHES WITH THE WISH OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG FOR A FASTER DEMOCRAT ISATI ON AT A STEADY PACE," HE SAID.
ON THE BILL OF RIGHTS, DR LEONG SAID HE DID NOT AGREE WITH THE ADMINISTRATION THAT IT WOULD TAKE TWO TO FIVE YEARS TO GO THROUGH ALL THE LEGISLATION TO ENSURE IT WOULD NOT BE CONTRADICTORY TO THIS BILL.
HE PROPOSED THE SETTING UP OF A HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION WITH MEMBERS FROM THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT, PRIVATE SECTOR AND ACADEMICS, BOTH LOCAL AND OVERSEAS.
- - 0-----------
ADOPTION OF OMELCO MODEL FOR POLITICAL REFORM URGED ******
THE HONG KONG AND BRITISH GOVERNMENTS SHOULD ADOPT THE OMELCO CONSENSUS PROPOSALS ON POLITICAL REFORM AND BRING THEM INTO EFFECT IN 1991, THE HON JAMES MCGREGOR SAID TN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).
A DEVELOPMENT OF THIS KIND WOULD BE A REAL BOOST TO CONFIDENCE, MR MCGREGOR SAID IN THE POLICY DEBATE.
WHATEVER MODEL WAS ADOPTED AFTER 1997 WOULD HAVE TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF A SYSTEM ALREADY IN SUCCESSFUL OPERATION, HE SAID.
/ON LABOUR
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 14 -
/ *;
ON LABOUR SUPPLY, MR MCGREGOR SAID FOR MAJOR PROJECTS SUCH AS THE NEW AIRPORT, PRESUMABLY THE GOVERNMENT MIGHT ALLOW UNSKILLED AND SEMI-SKILLED LABOUR TO BE IMPORTED FROM CHINA AND KEPT ON SITE UNDER ARRANGEMENTS WHICH WOULD SAFEGUARD THE INTERESTS OF HONG KONG EMPLOYEES.
'IF THAT IS THE INTENTION, I JOIN OTHER COLLEAGUES IN THIS COUNCIL IN SAYING THAT THIS IS THE KIND OF ARRANGEMENT THAT EMPLOYER ORGANISATIONS HAVE BEEN REQUESTING FOR SOME TIME WITHOUT SUCCESS," HE SAID.
ON THE POSSIBILITY OF TRADING WITH EAST EUROPEAN COUNTRIES, MR MCGREGOR SUGGESTED THAT AT LEAST SOME OF THESE COUNTRIES BE ALLOWED TO OPEN TRADE OFFICES HERE.
HE ALSO SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CONSIDER SETTING UP AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD WHICH WOULD OVERSEE AND ADVISE UPON THE ENTIRE RANGE OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN HONG KONG.
ON THE SUBJECT OF GOVERNMENT BOARDS AND COMMITTEES, MR MCGREGOR SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD ADOPT THE PRINCIPLE OF NOMINATED REPRESENTATION WHEN CONSIDERING MEMBERSHIP OF THESE BODIES.
HE SAID THE SETTING UP OF AN AIRPORT AUTHORITY WAS A WISE DECISION. THE NEW AIRPORT AUTHORITY WOULD DO A BETTER JOB THAN WOULD BE THE CASE IF A NUMBER OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS HAD THE TASK OF WORKING TOGETHER ON THIS PROJECT, HE SAID.
HE SUGGESTED THAT THE SAME CONSIDERATION SHOULD APPLY TO THE MANAGEMENT OF THE PORT, AND THAT A PORT AUTHORITY’ OR A PORT COMMISSION BE SET UP.
ON THE POSSIBILITY OF A WHOLESALE TAX BEING INTRODUCED, MR MCGREGOR SAID THE HONG KONG GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WAS "4,000 PER CENT NOT IN FAVOUR" OF THE IDEA.
THIS WAS A THOROUGHLY UNATTRACTIVE POSSIBILITY AND SHOULD BE LAID DECENTLY TO REST.
"IN MY VIEW, IT SHOULD ALSO TAKE THE EQUALLY UNATTRACTIVE SOFT DRINKS AND COSMETICS TAXES WITH IT," HE SAID.
ON THE MATTER OF "BOAT BRIDES", MR MCGREGOR ASKED THE GOVERNMENT TO CONSIDER DECLARING AN AMNESTY FOR ALL BOAT BRIDES WHO HAD BEEN WAITING FOR MORE THAN THREE YEARS TO RETURN TO HONG KONG.
HE ALSO SUGGESTED THAT THE DEATH PENALTY BE REMOVED ALTOGETHER FROM THE STATUTE BOOK.
REFERRING TO THE CIVIL SERVICE, HE NOTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD ANNOUNCED THAT OVERALL GROWTH WOULD BE REVISED DOWNWARDS TO TWO PER CENT IN 1989-90 BY DELETING VACANCIES, AND KEPT DOWN TO TWO PER CENT FOR THE NEXT FEW YEARS.
/HE SAID .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
HE SAID A DETAILED IMPLEMENTATION OF SUCH ACROSS-THE-BOARD MEASURES COULD FALL VERY UNEVENLY ON DIFFERENT ACTIVITIES AND VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS WITHIN THE GOVERNMENT.
"A LARGE DEPARTMENT IN A NO-GROWTH AREA MAY BE HARDLY AFFECTED, WHEREAS THE EFFECT ON A SMALL, RAPIDLY GROWING DEPARTMENT COULD BE DEVASTATING," HE NOTED.
HE HOPED THE GOVERNMENT'S EXPANDING ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PROGRAMME, WHICH DEPENDED ON A SMALL BUT RAPIDLY GROWING DEPARTMENT, WOULD NOT BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED BY TOO RIGID AN APPLICATION OF THE STRINGENT LOW GROWTH POLICY.
- - 0 -
POLICY ON IMPORTING LABOUR SHOULD BE RELAXED
*****
THE HON JAMES TIEN SUGGESTED TN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT HONG KONG SHOULD ADOPT A DUAL APPROACH AND RELAX ITS IMPORTATION OF LABOUR AND IMMIGRATION POLICIES TO HELP SOLVE THE MANPOWER SHORTAGE.
HE SAID THAT GIVEN THE LABOUR SHORTAGE PROBLEM OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS AND THE RECENT "BRAIN DRAIN" OF PROFESSIONALS AND SKILLED WORKERS, SOCIETY SIMPLY DID NOT HAVE ENOUGH PEOPLE TO FILL THE JOBS AVAILABLE.
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, MR TIEN SAID AN IMPORTATION OF LABOUR POLICY COULD BE DEVISED TO ALLOW IN NON-PROFESS1ONALS, OR SEMI-SKILLED WORKERS, TO WORK IN THE MANUFACTURING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRIES UNDER LIMITED QUOTA SCHEMES WITH SHORT-TERM CONTRACTS.
AS FOR AN IMMIGRATION POLICY, fiE SUGGESTED THAT A POINTS SYSTEM SIMILAR TO THAT IN OVERSEAS COUNTRIES SHOULD BE ADOPTED TO ALLOCATE HIGH PRIORITIES TO PROFESSIONALS AND SKILLED WORKERS WHO COULD BE BROUGHT IN FROM NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES.
ON FUTURE INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS, MR TIEN NOTED THAT THE PORT AND AIRPORT PROJECTS WOULD ACCOUNT FOR $127 BILLION.
IF THE PROJECTS WERE SPLIT AT A 60:10 RATIO BETWEEN THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS THIS WOULD MEAN THE PRIVATE SECTOR WOULD HAVE TO INVEST $50 BILLION AND THE GOVERNMENT TO TAKE UP THE BALANCE, HE ADDED.
HE NOTED THAT THE ACCUMULATED FISCAL SURPLUS WOULD AMOUNT TO $71 BILLION BY THF END OF THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR, AND THAT MIGHT OPEN THE SCOPE FOR BORROWING, ALTHOUGH THE GOVERNMENT COULD RELY ON THE REPORTED $200 BILLION IN THE FORM OF THE EXCHANGE FUND.
/BUT AN
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 16 -
BUT AN INFLUENTIAL PRIVATE REPORT HAD SUGGESTED THE GOVERNMENT WOULD HAVE TO SPEND $550 BILLION ON ALL CAPITAL WORKS BETWEEN NOW AND 2004, HE SAID. ADDING THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD TRY TO EVEN OUT ALL MAJOR PROJECTS TO AVOID UNNECESSARY UPS AND DOWNS.
ON POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT, MR TIEN SAID HE HAD INDICATED HIS SUPPORT FOR Till OMELCO CONSENSUS AND THE SO-CALLED 4-4-2 MODEL, AND HE BELIEVED THE POLITICAL STRUCTURE PROPOSED WOULD ALLOW FOR A SUITABLE PACE OF DEVELOPMENT.
HE ADDED THAT SUPPORTING OTHERS DID NOT NECESSARILY MEAN A CHANGE OF HEART OR LOSS OF FACE.
"COMPROMISE AND CONSENSUS IS SOMETHING WE ALSO TRIED TO ACHIEVE WITHIN OMELCO, BUT COMPROMISE AND CONSENSUS WITH PEOPLE OUTSIDE OMELCO IS EVEN MORE IMPORTANT FOR THE INTERESTS OF 1 HE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG," HE SAID.
"THE MOST IMPORTANT THING, HOWEVER, IS TO ACHIEVE A BASIC LAW RESPONSIVE TO THE CHANGING ENVIRONMENT BOTH HERE AND IN CHINA.
"THESE MATTERS REQUIRE ABOVE ALL TO BE DISCUSSED CALMLY AND WITHOUT PETTINESS. THE LAST THING WE NEED IS A WAR OF NERVES... CARRIED ON ABOUT, AND AGAINST, THIS TERRITORY," HE SAID.
MR TIEN SAID THE RESTORATION OF CONFIDENCE IN HONG KONG’S FUTURE WAS A DIFFICULT PROPOSITION AND HE WAS NOT CONFIDENT THAT THE FINAL DRAFT OF THE BASIC LAW WOULD ACCORD WITH THE WISHES OF HONG KONG PEOPLE.
HE ADDFD THAT HE COULD NOT SEE A MODEL IN WHICH HONG KONG PEOPLE HAD CONFIDENCE, GIVEN THE CURRENT UNCOMPROMISING ATMOSPHERE OF MUTUAL MISTRUST.
"HENCE, WE NEED TO ASSURE THAT, BETWEEN MAY 1990 AND 1997, THE DOOR CAN BE KEPT OPEN TO CHANGE. OUR HOPES REST UPON A CHANGE OF HEART WITHIN ('HINA ITSELF.
"OUR HOPES ALSO REST UPON RECONCILIATION AND UNDERSTANDING, REFERRED TO BY PREMIER LI PENG THIS WEEK TO THE VISITING FORMER US PRESIDENT RICHARD NIXON," HF. SAID.
-----0-----
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- V -
STABLE POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT KEY TO PROSPERITY ******
POLITICAL UNCERTAINTY CAN ONLY AGGRAVATE THE CONFIDENCE CRISIS THAT IS LOOMING OVER HONG KONG’S HORIZONS, AND IT IS UP TO ALL SIDES TO ENSURE A STABLE POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT THAT IS SO ESSENTIAL TO HONG KONG’S FUTURE PROSPERITY, THE HON PETER WONG HONG-YUEN SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY).
HE ALSO URGED THE LOCAL BASIC LAW DRAFTERS TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THE INTEREST OF HONG KONG AND STRIKE A REASONABLE BALANCE WITH CHINA.
'IF THEY NEGOTIATE FOR THE OVERALL GOOD OF CHINA AND HONG KONG, EVERYONE THEN WILL BE THE BENEFICIARY AND NONE WILL BE THE LOSER," HF SAID.
SPEAKING IN THE POLICY DEBATE, MR WONG SAID THE PROJECTED $127 BILLION INVESTMENT IN THE NEW AIRPORT AND PORT DEVELOPMENT WAS AN AFFIRMATION OF FAITH IN HONG KONG.
BUT HE SUGGESTED THAT THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY HAD TO ENSURE THAT THE ECONOMY WOULD NOT BECOME OVERHEATED AS A RESULT.
"SO FAR AS THE FUNDING OF THE PROJECT IS CONCERNED, I WAS UNHAPPY TO HEAR THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S REMARK THAT TAXES WILL HAVE TO GO UP, OR ALTERNATIVE SOURCES BE MADE AVAILABLE TO STABILISE THE YIELD.
"I WAS UNHAPPY BECAUSE THIS IS BASICALLY PROJECT FINANCING AND SHOULD NOT COME OUT OF THE GENERAL REVENUES OVER THE LONG TERM. IT WOULD BE VERY WRONG '1’0 USE THE AIRPORT AS THE EXCUSE TO BRING IN SALES TAX.
"THE USE OF THE HONG KONG SAR GOVERNMENT LAND FUND TRUST WOULD SEEM A BETTER ALTERNATIVE," HE SAID.
MR WONG SAID THE MASSIVE INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS WOULD LEAD TO INFLATION IF ACTIVITIES WERE NOT CAREFULLY PLANNED.
HE ALSO SAID THERE MIGHT BE -A NEED TO LIBERALISE THE IMPORTATION OF LABOUR TO MEET THE SURGE IN DEMAND BUT SUCH A POLICY SHOULD BE EXERCISED CAREFULLY IN THE CURRENT POLITICAL CLIMATE.
OVERSEAS AND LOCAL CONSORTIA WOULD BE INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING IN THE PROJECT AND THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD TRY TO OBTAIN THE BEST TERMS.
AS FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE PROJECTS THROUGH THE PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY, HE SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT REVIEW THE CAPABILITY OF SENIOR OFFICIALS TO PICK THE MOST SUITABLE CANDIDATE FOR THE SPECIAL JOB, AND IF SUCH PERSON COULD NOT BE FOUND IN THE CIVIL SERVICE, IT SHOULD NOT BE AFRAID TO BRING IN OVERSEAS EXPERTS.
/MR WONG .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 18 -
MR WONG ALSO SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT CONDUCT A THOROUGH STUDY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ON THE RESIDENTS OF NORTH LANTAU AND SOUTH NEW TERRITORIES. AS WELL AS AN ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTS OF THE PROJECTS ON TOWN PLANNING PROGRAMMES IN THESE TWO AREAS.
TURNING TO A SHORTAGE OF ACCOUNTANTS IN HONG KONG, MR WONG SAID A RECENT SURVEY SHOWED HONG KONG WAS 2,200 ACCOUNTANTS SHORT WITHIN THE PROFESSION AND GOVERNMENT, BUT THE UNIVERSITIES WERE REFUSING TO OFFER DEGREE COURSES IN THIS DISCIPLINE.
HE SAID THAT WITH THE GOVERNMENT PLACING GREATER DEMAND ON THE PROFESSION AND YET DECLINING TO PROVIDE' THE NECESSARY TRAINING IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS, IT WOULD NOT BE FAIR OR REALISTIC TO THE PROFESSION.
HE SUGGESTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT GIVE SPECIAL CONSIDERATION TO INCLUDING ACCOUNTANCY IN TERTIARY' EDUCATION WHEN ALLOCATING PRIORITIES BECAUSE IMPORTATION OF SKILLED ACCOUNTANTS TO FILL THE GAPS COULD ONLY PROVIDE TEMPORARY RELIEF.
-----0-----
TRIPARTITE EFFORT URGED
TO DISPEL DISTRUST *
* * * *
THE HON STEPHEN CHEONG TODAY (THURSDAY) CALLED ON THE CHINESE, BRITISH AND HONG KONG GOVERNMENTS TO JOIN HANDS TO DISMANTLE THE BARRIERS OF SUSPICION AND DISTRUST AMONG THEM.
"FOR A START, I PLEAD THAT THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES SHOULD NOT ALLOW ANY SUSPICIONS TO IMPEDE OBJECTIVE AND RATIONAL ASSESSMENT OF WHAT IS HAPPENING IN HONG KONG," MR CHEONG SAID IN THE POLICY DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
HONG KONG COULD NOT, AND WOULD NOT, SURVIVE IF IT WERE TO DEVELOP INTO A BASE OF SUBVERSION.
"WE HAVE NEITHER THE WISH NOR THE ABILITY' TO ADVERSELY AFFECT CHINA ONE WAY OR THE OTHER. WE EARNESTLY HOPE THAT THE DIFFERENCES IN VALUES AND SOCIAL CIRCUMSTANCES BETWEEN THE TWO SOCIETIES BE WELL UNDERSTOOD AND ACCEPTED BY THE LEADERSHIP IN CHINA," HE SAID.
HE ADDED THAT IT WAS IMPERATIVE THAT CHINA WORKED WITH HONG KONG WITH SYMPATHY' AND UNDERSTANDING. BLATANT DEPLOYMENT OF STRONG AND HARD TACTICS ARISING OUT OF A FATHER-KNOWS-BEST ATTITUDE WOULD NOT BE CONDUCIVE TO THE FUTURE SUCCESS OF "ONE COUNTRY, TWO SYSTEMS".
AS FOR THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, HE SAID HIS PLEA WAS THAT THEY SHOULD, AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE, SHED THE YOKE OF DOUBT AND WORRY.
/"WHILST NO .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 19 -
"WHILST NO ONE CAN KNOW FOR SURE HOW BAD OR HOW WELL WE WILL FARE IN THE FUTURE, WE MUST NOT BE DETERRED FROM WORKING HARD FOR OUR OWN FUTURE," HE SAID.
MR CHEONG SAID OPEN AND PERSISTENT CHALLENGE TO CHINA’S CENTRAL GOVERNMENT, POLITICAL LEADERSHIP AND ITS LEGITIMACY WAS NOT IN THE INTEREST OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG.
"WHATEVER DIFFERENCES THERE MAY BE BETWEEN HONG KONG AND THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT, THEY MUST BE RESOLVED THROUGH BUSINESS-LIKE NEGOTIATIONS AND NOT CONSTANT DEPLOYMENT OF PRESSURE GROUP TACTICS,” HE SAID.
AS FOR BRITAIN, HE SAID HIS PLEA WAS THAT BRITISH LEADERS SHOULD STEP OUT OF THE CONSTRAINTS OF THEIR POLITICAL EXPEDIENCY.
POLITICAL
PERCEIVED
BRITAIN MUST UNDERSTAND, DESIGNED TO UNDERPIN THE STABILITY
CONSIDER. AND OF HONG KONG.
IMPLEMENT
MEASURES
"UK IS BOUND UNDER ARTICLE 4 OF THE JOINT DECLARATION TO PROVIDE ADMINISTRATIVE STABILITY AND PROSPERITY TO HONG KONG. THEREFORE, UK PROVIDING SATISFACTORY SOLUTIONS TO BOTH THE NATIONALITY AND Till VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE ISSUES WOULD CERTAINLY BE THE WELCOME FIRST STEPS," HE SAID.
MR CHEONG SAID THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH WAS TIMELY. IT STARKLY REMINDED HONG KONG THAT WHATEVER EMOTIONS AND FEARS ARISING OUT OF CONCERNS FOR THE FUTURE, THE IMPORTANT THING WAS TO FOCUS AT ALL TIMES ON WHAT LIFE FOR CITIZENS WAS ALL ABOUT.
"THAT IS, WHAT CAN BE DONE TO IMPROVE OUR MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, HOUSING, SOCIAL WELFARE, EDUCATION, TRANSPORT, ETC. WE CANNOT AND SHOULD NOT PERENNI ALLY LIVE ON HOPE OR FEARS,” HE SAID.
THE ONE PILLAR TO HONG KONG’S STABILITY MUST BE THE CONTINUED MAINTENANCE OF INTEGRITY AND MORALE OF THE CIVIL SERVICE, MR CHEONG SAID.
"IN THIS REGARD, I WOULD PLEAD THAT THE GOVERNMENT'S INTENTION TO CONTAIN THE GROWTH OF THE CIVIL SERVICE BE IMPLEMENTED WITH A DEGREE OF FLEXIBILITY," HE SAID.
TURNING TO EDUCATION, MR CHEONG SAID THAT TN THE LIGHT OF THE DRAIN ON TALENT CAUSED BY EMIGRATION, HONG KONG NEEDED TO RECONSIDER THE INPUT INTO THE POST-SECONDARY CURRICULUM AND THE SORT OF GRADUATES THE COMMUNITY AND THE ECONOMY NEEDED.
"THIS CALLS FOR A CLOSER DIALOGUE BETWEEN THE ADMINISTRATION, THE BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL SECTORS AND ACADEMIA.
"IT IS PERHAPS HIGH TIME FOR A REVIEW TO RATIONALISE THE VARIOUS LEVELS OF OUR POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION TO CROSS-MATCH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE DIFFERENT SECTORS OF OUR ECONOMY," HE SAID.
/HE ALSO .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 20 -
HE ALSO SAID THAT AS DECIDED AND WAS IRREVOCABLE, INSTILL IN FUTURE GENERATIONS A LIFE IN A TERRITORY WITHIN
THE TRANSFER OF SOVEREIGNTY HAD BEEN HONG KONG MUST NOW CONSIDER HOW TO THE KNOWLEDGE, VALUES AND SKILLS FOR THE NATION OF CHINA.
ON INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, MR CHEONG URGED THE GOVERNMENT TO INVEST VIGOROUSLY IN RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.
"WE MUST RECOGNISE THAT HONG KONG IS VERY MUCH BEHIND KOREA, TAIWAN AND SINGAPORE IN THIS FIELD AND IF WE ARE TO MAINTAIN OUR PLACE IN THE FAST MOVING ECONOMIC WORLD, WE NEED TO START THE PROCESS OF, NOT CATCHING UP, BUT OF NOT BEING LEFT TOO FAR BEHIND," HE SAID.
-----0-----
MEMBERS COMPLETE SPEECHES IN POLICY DEBATE * * * ♦ ♦
MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (THURSDAY) COMPLETED THEIR SPEECHES ON THE MOTION THAT THE GOVERNOR BE THANKED FOR HIS ANNUAL ADDRESS TO THE COUNCIL.
TWENTY-TWO MEMBERS SPOKE ON THE MOTION IN THE SECOND DAY OF THE ANNUAL POLICY DEBATE. THE SITTING BEGAN AT 2.30 PM AND ENDED AT 8.55 PM.
TWENTY-TWO MEMBERS ALSO SPOKE IN YESTERDAY’S SITTING.
OFFICIAL MEMBERS WILL REPLY TO POINTS RAISED BY MEMBERS WHEN THE DEBATE RESUMES AT THE COUNCIL'S NEXT SITTING ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 8). THAT SITTING WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM.
--------o ---------
/21 .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2
1989
-SI-
NK’S MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS REMAIN COMPETITIVE ♦ t t t I t
HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS EVER IN ITS MAJOR OVRESEAS MARKETS AND INDUSTRIES, ELECTRONICS, TOYS, AND WATCHES WORLD-FAMOUS, THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
REMAIN AS COMPETITIVE AS ITS TEXTILES AND GARMENT AND CLOCKS INDUSTRIES ARE INDUSTRY, MR JOHN CHAN,
HE WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF TRADE FAIR AT THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION
THE INDUSTRIAL
CENTRE.
MR CHAN SAID MANUFACTURING HAD BEEN THE MAINSTAY OF HONG KONG’S ECONOMY, ACCOUNTING FOR SOME 22 PER CENT OF THE GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT AND 32 PER CENT OF TOTAL EMPLOYMENT IN 1988.
BEING ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST EXTERNALLY ORIENTED ECONOMIES, HONG KONG EXPORTS ABOUT 90 PER CENT OF ITS MANUFACTURING PRODUCTS.
’’WE GENERALLY IMPORT RAW MATERIALS REQUIRED FOR PRODUCTION AND ALSO THE INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY WE USE IN MANUFACTURING PROCESS," MR CHAN SAID.
AT PRESENT, HE ADDED, TWO-THIRDS OF HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY WAS IMPORTED, PARTICULARLY THOSE REQUIRED TO USE MORE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES.
"BUT THIS IS NOT TO SAY THAT OUR OWN PRODUCTION OF INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY IS UNIMPORTANT. IN RECENT YEARS OUR MACHINERY MANUFACTURING SECTOR HAS DEMONSTRATED ITS ABILITY IN WINNING EXPORT ORDERS," MR CHAN SAID.
LAST YEAR, THE VALUE OF THE EXPORTS OF INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY WAS OVER $1,000 MILLION WHICH WAS NEARLY THREE TIMES THE FIGURES IN 1981.
MR CHAN SAID HONG KONG WAS NOW FACING KEEN COMPETITION IN ITS MAJOR EXPORT MARKETS AND THE INCREASING DEMAND FROM ITS CONSUMERS FOR EVER-HIGHER QUALITY STANDARD IN MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS.
MR CHAN STRESSED THAT HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURERS HAD TO MOVE FURTHER INTO THE DIRECTION OF ADOPTING HIGHER TECHNOLOGY-BASED PRODUCTION METHODS AND MORE SOPHISTICATION PRODUCTION MACHINERY WAS ALSO MUCH NEEDED.
HONG KONG-MANUFACTURED INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY, PARTICULARLY THF MACHINERY USED FOR PLASTICS MOULDING, METAL PROCESSING, PR1NIIN<«. TEXTILES MANUFACTURE AND ELECTROPLATING, IS ALSO ON DISPLAY AT THE FAIR.
- 0 - -
/22
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2
1989
22
AUGUST RESULTS OF RETAIL SALES SURVEY RELEASED
*****
THE TOTAL VALUE OF RETAIL SALES IN AUGUST 1989, ESTIMATED AT $8,922 MILLION, INCREASED BY 2 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988 WHILST THEIR VOLUME DECREASED BY 3 PER CENT, ACCORDING TO THE PROVISIONAL RESULTS OF A SURVEY RELEASED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THIS SLUGGISH PERFORMANCE WAS ATTRIBUTABLE TN SLACKENING IN LOCAL CONSUMER SPENDING AND IN PART TO A TOURISM.
PART TO A
SETBACK IN
COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988, RETAIL SALES OF
ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO WENT UP BY 17 PER CENT IN PER CENT IN VOLUME. FUELS ROSE BY 12 PER CENT IN SALES
FOODSTUFFS,
VALUE AND 8
VALUE AND 2
PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.
ON THE SAME BASIS OF COMPARISON, CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR AND ALLIED PRODUCTS DECREASED BY 5 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND 14 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME. CONSUMER DURABLES DROPPED BY 9 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND 13 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.
OTHER CONSUMER GOODS INCREASED BY 2 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE BUT DECREASED BY 3 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.
ANALYSED BY SELECTED TRADES, SALES OF SUPERMARKETS WENT UP BY 18 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 6 PER CENT IN VOLUME. SALES OF DEPARTMENT STORES ROSE BY 5 PER CENT IN VALUE BUT DROPPED BY 4 PER CENT IN VOLUME.
MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS SHOWED PRACTICALLY NO CHANGE IN SALES VALUE BUT WENT DOWN BY 6 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME. CONSUMER DURABLES OTHER THAN MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS DECREASED BY 14 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND 16 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.
COMPARING THE PERIOD JANUARY TO AUGUST 1989 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1988, TOTAL RETAIL SALES INCREASED BY 8 PER CENT IN VALUE BUT HAD PRACTICALLY NO CHANGE IN VOLUME. SALES OF FOODSTUFFS, ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO ROSE BY 15 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 4 PER CENT IN VOLUME. FUELS WENT UP BY 8 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND 2 PER
CENT IN SALES VOLUME.
RETAIL SALES OF CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR AND ALLIED PRODUCTS INCREASED BY 10 PER CENT IN VALUE BUT HAD PRACTICALLY NO CHANGE IN VOLUME. CONSUMER DURABLES ROSE BY I PER CENT IN SALES VALUE BUT FELL BY 5 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.
OTHER CONSUMER GOODS WENT UP BY 7 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND 1 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.
/ANALYSED BY .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
ANALYSED BY SELECTED TRADES, RETAIL SALES OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS INCREASED BY 25 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 17 PER CENT IN VOLUME. SUPERMARKETS SALES ROSE BY 13 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 2 PER CENT IN VOLUME. DEPARTMENT STORES SALES WENT UP BY 11 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 2 PER CENT IN VOLUME.
HOWEVER, CONSUMER DURABLES OTHER THAN MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS DROPPED BY 12 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND 15 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.
WHEN COMPARED WITH JULY 1989, AND BEARING TN MIND THAT THIS COMPARISON MAY BE AFFECTED BY SEASONAL FACTORS, TOTAL RETAIL SALES FOR AUGUST 1989 INCREASED BY 6 PER CENT IN BOTH VALUE AND VOLUME.
FUELS SHOWED PRACTICALLY NO CHANGE IN BOTH SALES VALUE AND VOLUME, WHILST SALES OF FOODSTUFFS, ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO DECREASED BY 1 PER CENT IN BOTH VALUE AND VOLUME.
RETAIL SALES OF CONSUMER DURABLES ROSE BY 12 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 11 PER CENT IN VOLUME, WHILST THOSE FOR CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR AND ALLIED PRODUCTS INCREASED BY 7 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 8 PER CENT IN VOLUME.
OTHER CONSUMER GOODS WENT UP BY 7 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND 8 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME.
ANALYSED BY SELECTED TRADES, DEPARTMENT STORES SALES ROSE BY 15 PER CENT IN VALUE AND 16 PER CENT IN VOLUME. MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS INCREASED BY 13 PER CENT IN SALES VALUE AND 12 PER CENT IN SALES VOLUME. SALES OF CONSUMER DURABLES OTHER THAN MOTOR VEHICLES AND PARTS WENT UP BY 11 PER CENT IN BOTH VALUE AND VOLUME.
HOWEVER, SUPERMARKETS SALES DROPPED BY 1 PER CENT IN BOTH VALUE AND VOLUME.
TABLE 1 PRESENTS THE REVISED TOTAL RETAIL SALES FIGURE FOR JULY 1989 AND THE PROVISIONAL FIGURE FOR AUGUST 1989.
TABLE 2 SHOWS THE VALUE AND VOLUME INDEXES OF RETAIL SALES IN JULY AND AUGUST 1989 (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 1989 RESULTS WITH THOSE FOR JULY 1989 AND WITH THOSE FOR AUGUST 1988, AND COMPARISONS OF RETAIL SALES IN THE FIRST EIGHT MONTHS OF 1989 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1988, ARE ALSO GIVEN.
THE REPORT CONTAINING THE ANALYSIS OF THE AUGUST 1989 SURVEY RESULTS IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GPO BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AT $1 PER COPY.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE STATISTICS SECTION OF THE- CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL. NO.: 5-565240).
/TABLE 1 : .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 2b -
TABLE I 1 TOTAL RETAIL SALES
Total Retail Sales for August 1989 (Provisional Figure! « KK$ 8,922tillion
for July 1989 (Revised Figure) « HK$ 8,<341!11 ion
TABLE 2 ; VALUE AND VOLUME INDEXES OF RETAIL SALES FOR JULY 1989 AND AUGUST 1989 (Monthly average of Oct. 84 - Sept. 85 = 100)
• • Itet I 1 1 Index of I Retail ! Sales 1 1 1 July I * 1989 1 1 August I 1989 I August compared July 1989 I with ! 1989 : August cotpared August 1989 with 1988 Jan.-Aug. 1989 ! coapared with !
Jan.-Aug. 1988 •
(A) FOR ALL RETAIL TRADES 1 (Revised figures) ! 1 (Provisional figures) Points X 1 1 Points X Points X I » •
Value 151 159 9 6 4 2 11 8 1
1 (B) BY MAJOR TRADE GROUPS Volume 118 124 7 6 -4 -3 1 1 I । ।
Foodstuffs, alcoholic Value 147 146 -1 -1 21 17 18 15 1
drinks and tobacco Volute 115 114 -2 -I 8 8 4 4 I
Fuels Value 119 119 I 1 12 12 7 8 :
Voluae 118 118 i 1 2 2 2 2 1 1
Clothing, footwear Value 148 159 11 7 -9 -5 17 io :
and allied produces Voluae 108 116 9 3 -19 -14 1 i ■
Consuaer durables Value 138 154 16 12 -15 -9 2 i :
Volute 105 117 12 11 -17 -13 -7 -5 1
Other consuaer goods Value 164 176 12 7 4 2 11 7 1 i : 1 i
(C) BY SELECTED TRAOES (see note 1 below) Volute 127 137 10 8 -4 -3 1
! Supertarkets Value 195 194 -1 -1 29 18 20 2 13 2
Volute 150 149 -1 -1 9 6
I Motor vehicles Value 237 267 31 13 1 » 57 25
I and parts Voluae 158 177 19 12 -11 -6 28 17
I Consuaer durables Value 108 119 12 11 -20 -14 -16 -12
1 other than motor vehicles and parts Volute 88 98 10 1 • 11 -18 -16 -17 1 -15
Departaent stores I Value 190 218 1 28 15 11 5 : 21 11
1 Volute 141 163 I 22 16 -6 -4 I 3 2
MOTES : 1. In order to analyse the sales of certain trades WITHIH aajor trade groups, the value and volute indexes in respect of the following selected trades are compiled :
(a) 'Supertarkets' - a trade in the 'Foodstuffs, alcoholic drinks and tobacco' group.
(b> 'Motor vehicles and parts' - a trade in the 'Consuaer durables' group.
Ic) 'Consumer durables other than notor vehicles and parts’ - a trade in the "Consuaer durables’ group.
(d) 'Department stores' - a trade in the 'Other consuaer goods" group.
2. Figures denoting changes are derived from the unrounded index figures.
3. denotes a figure within 10.5.
-------o---------
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2
1989
- 25 -
SECOND QUARTER SURVEY ON EXPORTS TO CHINA FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING
******
TO PROVIDE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE NATURE AND IMPORTANCE OF OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA BY HONG KONG FIRMS, IN THE SECOND HALF OF 1988 THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT INITIATED A SAMPLE SURVEY TO ENABLE IT TO SPLIT HONG KONG’S EXPORTS - BOTH DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS - INTO THOSE WHICH WERE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING AND THOSE WHICH WERE NOT.
THE RESULTS FOR THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 ARE NOW AVAILABLE.
THE RESULTS SHOW THAT IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 SOME 76 PER CENT OF HONG KONG'S DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA WERE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING. FOR RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA THE FIGURE WAS 46 PER CENT. THUS, FOR OVERALL EXPORTS TO CHINA, SOME 54 PER CENT WERE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING.
IN VALUE TERMS, THESE PROPORTIONS IMPLY THAT SOME $8,366 MILLION OF THE $11,017 MILLION OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 WERE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING.
FOR RE-EXPORTS THE CORRESPONDING FIGURES WERE $12,371 MILLION OUT OF $27,178 MILLION, AND FOR TOTAL EXPORTS $20,737 MILLION OUT OF $38,195 MILLION.
FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE SURVEY, EXPORTS TO CHINA FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING REFER TO THE EXPORTING OF RAW MATERIALS OR SEMI-MANUFACTURES FROM HONG KONG TO CHINA FOR PROCESSING, WITH THE RESULTING PROCESSED GOODS BEING SUBSEQUENTLY RE-IMPORTED INTO HONG KONG.
A SAMPLE OF TRADE DECLARATIONS IN RESPECT OF EXPORTS (DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS) TO CHINA WERE SELECTED FOR ENUMERATION TO OBTAIN THE REQUIRED INFORMATION FROM ESTABLISHMENTS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT EXPLAINED THAT UNDER THE EXISTING INTERNATIONALLY ACCEPTED SYSTEM OF RECORDING TRADE FLOWS, ALL MOVEMENTS OF GOODS ACROSS THE BORDER, FOR WHATEVER PURPOSE, ARE RECORDED AS EXTERNAL TRADE.
THUS THE MOVEMENTS OF GOODS ASSOCIATED WITH OUTWARD PROCESSING ARE CORRECTLY INCLUDED IN THE REGULAR TRADE STATISTICS.
"THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY FACILITATE A MORE INFORMED ANALYSIS OF THE NATURE OF HONG KONG-CHINA TRADE, PARTICULARLY AS REGARDS Till DISPOSITION OF THE GOODS AFTER THEY HAVE ENTERED CHINA.
"THE SURVEY RESULTS ARE THUS A USEFUL SUPPLEMENT TO THE REGULAR TRADE STATISTICS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
SURVEY RESULTS FOR THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 WILL BE INCLUDED IN PARI’ I OF THE SEPTEMBER 1989 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE", WHICH WILL BE ON SALE IN END-NOVEMBER 1989 AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GPO BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL AT $17.5 PER COPY.
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/26........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
LEAFLET ON ROYAL VISIT FOR RELEASE ON MONDAY * * * *
A LEAFLET FOR THE VISIT TO HONG KONG OF THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS 01- WALES WILL RE RELEASED ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6).
THE LEAFLET INCLUDES DETAILS OF THE VISIT PROGRAMME AND THE BIOGRAPHIES OF THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES.
IT WILL RE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC COLLECTION, FREE OF CHARGE, AT ALL DISTRICT OFFICES, THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE AT GPO BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL AND THE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES MARKETING OFFICE AT 1 BATTERY PATH, CENTRAL.
- - 0
SPECIAL STAMP ISSUE TO COMMEMORATE ROYAL VISIT
*****
A SET OF SPECIAL STAMPS ON "THE ROYAL VISIT 1989" WILL BE ISSUED ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 8) TO COMMEMORATE THE VISIT OF THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES TO HONG KONG, THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, MR DOMINIC WONG, ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY).
THERE WILL BE FOUR DENOMINATIONS, 60 CENTS, $1.40, $1.80 AND $5. IN ADDITION, A SOUVENIR SHEET AT $5 WILL BE ISSUED.
THE STAMPS AND THE SOUVENIR SHEET ARE NOW ON DISPLAY AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE AND TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICE. A DISPLAY AT THE SOUTH GALLERY, LEVEL 3, SHA TIN NEW TOWN PLAZA WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY AND SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 4 AND 5).
A SPECIAL POSTMARK WILL BE INTRODUCED TO CANCEL FIRST DAY COVERS ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 8).
FOR THE CONVENIENCE OF CUSTOMERS, FIRST DAY COVERS PRE-AFFIXED WITH A SET OF SPECIAL STAMPS AND CANCELLED WITH THE WELSH DRAGON DATESTAMP WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT $10.30 AT THE DESIGNATED COl TERS OF THE FOLLOWING 20 POST OFFICES ON WEDNESDAY:
HONG KONG ISLAND
BEACONSFIELD HOUSE POST OFFICE CAUSEWAY BAY POST OFFICE GENERAL POST OFFICE PEAK POST OFFICE
SAI YING PUN POST OFFICE TSAT TSZ MUI POST OFFICE
/KOWLOON
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 27 -
KOWLOON
AIRPORT POST OFFICE
CHEUNG SHA WAN POST OFFICE GRANVILLE ROAD POST OFFICE KOWLOON BAY POST OFFICE KOWLOON CENTRAL POST OFFICE KWUN TONG POST OFFICE MONG KOK POST OFFICE TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICE
NEW TERRITORIES
SHA TIN CENTRAL POST OFFICE TAI PO POST OFFICE SHEK WU HUI POST OFFICE
TSUEN WING STREET POST OFFICE
TUEN MUN SAN HUI POST OFFICE
YUEN LONG POST OFFICE
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NEW DO TO VISIT ISLANDS RURAL COMMITTEES
*****
THE NEW ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICER, MR KIM SALKELD, WILL CALL ON THE FOUR RURAL COMMITTEES ON LANTAU ISLAND AND THE NORTH LAMMA RURAL COMMITTEE TOMORROW (FRIDAY) TO MEET LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES AND TO EXCHANGE VIEWS WITH VILLAGERS.
MR SALKELD WILL VISIT THE MUI WO, SOUTH LANTAU, TUNG CHUNG AND TAI O RURAL COMMITTEES ON LANTAU AND THEN GO TO LAMMA, WHERE HE WILL VISIT THE NORTH LAMMA RURAL COMMITTEE AT YUNG SHUE WAN.
LAST WEEK, HE VISITED THE PENG CHAU, CHEUNG CHAU AND SOUTH LAMMA RURAL COMMITTEES.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER MR SALKELD’S VISIT TO THE TUNG CHUNG RURAL COMMITTEE TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT 11 AM.
A PRESS LAUNCH, MD 1, WILL LEAVE FOR TUNG CHUNG FROM THE MARINE DEPARTMENT PIER IN CENTRAL AT 9.15 AM.
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/28........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
28
SEMINAR IN EASTERN ON RULE OF LAW
*****
SOCIAL WORKERS, TEACHERS AND CIVIC EDUCATION ADVOCATES WILL TAKE PART IN A WHOLE-DAY SEMINAR IN EASTERN DISTRICT ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 4) TO EXCHANGE EXPERIENCES IN THE PROMOTION OF THE RULE OF LAW, DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS.
SPEAKERS IN THE MORNING SESSION WILL BE A LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MR DAVID CHEUNG; SENIOR LECTURER IN THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC AND SOCIAL ADMINISTRATION OF THE CITY POLYTECHNIC OF HONG KONG, MR CHEUNG PING-LEUNG; AND A MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION, MISS NORA YAU.
THE AFTERNOON SESSION WILL TAKE THE FORM OF WORKSHOPS AND GROUP DISCUSSIONS.
PARTICIPANTS WILL EXPLORE PRACTICAL WAYS TO INSTIL THE CONCEPTS OF RULE OF LAW, DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS IN THE PUBLIC, AND ESPECIALLY IN YOUNG PEOPLE AND THE ELDERLY.
THE SEMINAR HAS BEEN CO-ORGANISED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD AND THE DISTRICT OFFICE AS PART OF A CIVIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CIVIC EDUCATION SEMINAR ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 4> ON THE NINTH FLOOR, GRAND PLAZA HOTEL, 2 KORNHILL ROAD, QUARRY BAY. THE SEMINAR WILL START AT 10 AM.
-----0-----
SEMINAR TO REVIEW PRESSURE EQUIPMENT SAFETY
*****
THE PRESSURE EQUIPMENT DIVISION OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) STARTED A SEMINAR TO EXAMINE THE WAYS AND MEANS TO IMPROVE THE STANDARD OF SAFETY IN THE USE OF PRESSURE EQUIPMENT.
THE TWO-DAY RESIDENTIAL SEMINAR PROVIDES AN OPPORTUNITY FOR PARTICIPANTS TO REVIEW THE LATEST ADMINISTRATIVE AND TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS IN THE FIELD.
MORE THAN 40 PEOPLE ARE TAKING PART IN THE SEMINAR, INCLUDING STAFF OF THE PRESSURE EQUIPMENT DIVISION, OTHER GOVERNMENT OFFICERS AND APPOINTED EXAMINERS OF PRESSURE EQUIPMENT.
/SUBJECTS FOR .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
SUBJECTS FOR DISCUSSION INCLUDE RECOGNITION OF INSPECTION BODIES, REGISTRATION OF INSPECTION OF THERMAL OIL HEATER, CASE STUDIES OF ACCIDENTS INVOLVING DUAL EVAPORATION BOILER AND STEAM RECEIVERS AND REVIEW OF CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS FOR PRESSURE EQUIPMENT.
THE SEMINAR WAS OPENED THIS MORNING BY THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR HAROLD KWOK, AT THE LEI YUE MUN PARK HOLIDAY VILLAGE.
MR KWOK TOLD THE PARTICIPANTS THAT A PRESSURE EQUIPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE WOULD BE SET Up TO ADVISE THE BOILERS AND PRESSURE VESSELS AUTHORITY ON MATTERS RELATING TO EFFECTIVE CONTROL ON THE USE OF PRESSURE EQUIPMENT.
HE SAID THE COMMITTEE WOULD COMPRISE SOME 10 MEMBERS REPRESENTING USERS, MANUFACTURERS, INSPECTION BODIES AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
"THE ADVICE FROM THE COMMITTEE OF EXPERTS WILL BE INVALUABLE IN ADOPTING NEW TECHNIQUES IN HONG KONG AND ENHANCING THE STANDARD OF SAFETY IN THIS FIELD," MR KWOK SAID.
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PUBLICITY MOUNTED FOR SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL
A PUBLICITY DRIVE IS BEING HELD TO PROMOTE THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL WHICH BEGINS ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 4).
THE MONTH-LONG FESTIVAL, WHICH AIMS TO FOSTER A SENSE OF BELONGING AMONG RESIDENTS, WILL PROVIDE MORE THAT 20 CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL, ENTERTAINMENT, SPORTS, ARTS AND CIVIC EDUCATION EVENTS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT YELLOW AND BLUE BUNTING BEARING THE FESTIVAL LOGO HAVE BEEN PUT UP AT MAJOR THOROUGHFARES.
THE FOUR "WELCOME TO SOUTHERN DISTRICT" SIGNBORDS IN WONG NAI CHUNG GAP ROAD, SHEK O ROAD, POK FU LAM ROAD AND AP LEI CHAU BRIDGE ROAD HAVE ALSO BEEN REDECORATED TO CREATE A FESTIVAL ATMOSPHERE, HE SAID.
BANNERS AND BILLBOARDS PUBLICISING THE VARIOUS FESTIVAL EVENTS HAVE BEEN MOUNTED ON ROADSIDE RAILINGS, WHILE MORE THAN 5,000 POSTERS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES, OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS, SCHOOLS AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.
A TOTAL OF 35,000 COPIES OF A NEWSPAPER SUPPLEMENT GIVING DETAILS OF THE FESTIVAL PROGRAMME HAVE BEEN PRINTED, OF WHICH 22,500 HAVE BEEN DISTRIBUTED ALONG WITH THE DISTRICT NEWSPAPER, THE "SOUTHERN DISTRICT NEWS".
/THE SUPPLEMENTS .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
THE SUPPLEMENTS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE AT ABERDEEN CENTRE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES IN STANLEY VILLAGE ROAD, LEI TUNG ESTATE AND WAH FU ESTATE. THE DISPLAY WINDOWS OF THOSE OFFICES HAVE ALSO BEEN DECORATED TO PUBLICISE THE FESTIVAL.
IN ADDITION, A FULL-PAGE COLOUR ADVERTISEMENT WILL APPEAR ON A LOCAL CHINESE DAILY ON SATURDAY TO COINCIDE WITH THE OPENING OF THE FESTIVAL.
A BROADCAST VAN WILL TOUR THE DISTRICT TO DISTRIBUTE PROGRAMME LEAFLETS AND SOUVENIRS TO RESIDENTS IN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
- - 0 -
YUEN LONG ARTS FESTIVAL OPENS TOMORROW * * * * *
THE 10TH YUEN LONG ARTS FESTIVAL WILL BEGIN TOMORROW (FRIDAY) EVENING AT LUT SAU HALL IN TAI YUK ROAD WITH A SPECTACULAR VARIETY SHOW.
THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR ADOLF HSU, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
IN THE FOLLOWING NINE DAYS, OVER 20 EVENTS INCLUDING OPERAS, DRAMAS, FILM SHOWS, EXHIBITIONS AND MUSICAL PERFORMANCES WILL BE HELD AT A NUMBER OF VENUES.
TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE AT THE YUEN LONG TOWN HALL AND NANYANG COMMERCIAL BANK’S BRANCH OFFICE IN TAI TONG ROAD, YUEN LONG.
FREE ADMISSION TICKETS FOR SOME EVENTS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT OFFICE, DISTRICT BOARD, YUEN LONG TOWN HALL AND THE LONG PING COMMUNITY HALL.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 10TH YUEN LONG ARTS FESTIVAL WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 7.30 PM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT LUT SAU HALL, TAI YUK ROAD, YUEN LONG.
A RECEPTION WILL BE HELD IN THE YUEN LONG SPORTS ASSOCIATION OPPOSITE THE HALL AT 6.30 PM PRIOR TO THE CEREMONY.
- - 0 -
/31
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1989
- 51 -
UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES IN KENNEDY TOWN TO BE CLOSED
*****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE THE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES AT THE REAR LANE OF 4-8 NORTH STREET, KENNEDY TOWN, HONG KONG SO THAT THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS OR TO THE PUBLIC.
THE CLOSURE IS PART OF AN EXERCISE TO ENFORCE AN ORDER ISSUED UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE ON FEBRUARY 21 THIS YEAR REQUIRING THE DEMOLITION OF THE STRUCTURES WITH WHICH THE OWNER HAS FAILED TO COMPLY.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON DECEMBER 28 THIS YEAR WAS POSTED ON A CONSPICUOUS PART OF THE ILLEGAL STRUCTURES TODAY (THURSDAY).
IT IS INTENDED THAT DEMOLITION WORK WILL BE CARRIED OUT ONCE THE CLOSURE ORDER IS OBTAINED.
-----0-------
LEI YUE MUN FERRY FARE AND TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN TSUEN WAN
******
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 4), THE MAXIMUM ADULT FARES CHARGEABLE ON THE FERRY SERVICE BETWEEN SAM KA TSUEN AND LET YUE MUN WILL BE JI PER SINGLE JOURNEY, WHILE THOSE FOR CHILDREN AGED UNDER 12 YEARS WILL BE 50 CENTS PER SINGLE JOURNEY.
ON THE OTHER. HAND, FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY, THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF THE SECTION OF TAI HO ROAD BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH HOI PA STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 65 METRES SOUTH OF ITS JUNCTION WITH CASTLE PEAK ROAD WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.
-----0------
TEMPORARY' CLOSURE OF STADIUM PATH
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT STADIUM PATH IN HAPPY VALLEY WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FROM 8 AM TO NOON ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 4) FOR THE HOLDING OF THE PEDESTRIAN ROAD SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAMME OPENING CEREMONY.
AT THE SAME TIME, THE PARKING SPACES ALONG STADIUM PATH WILL BE SUSPENDED.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
HK-CHINA RELATIONSHIPS SHOULD BE TACKLED IN A PRACTICAL, PRAGMATIC MANNER: CS ........................................ 1
CS PRAISES COUNCIL'S ROLE IN SOCIAL SERVICE ................. 1
CS PAYS TRIBUTE TO FRIENDS OF SCOUTING ...................... 2
POLICE PROGRAMME FOR PRINCESS OF WALES ...................... 3
CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT STATISTICS FOR 2ND QUARTER RELEASED .... 5
BILL INTENDED TO ENHANCE WORK OF CUSTOMS .................... 7
MA TAU KOK OZP APPROVED ..................................... 7
THREE GOVERNMENT LOTS FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ............ 9
PREQUALIFICATION EXERCISE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF LIBRARY AND GOVT OFFICES COMPLEX ....................................... 10
ACCESS FOR LA SALLE ROAD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT................ 10
TINDERS INVITED FOR WANG CHIU ROAD CONSTRUCTION WORKS ...... 11
LONDON TO MAINTAIN HOTLINE SERVICE FOR HK VISITORS ......... 12
FIREMEN MUST BE WELL PREPARED............................... 12
TENTH YUEN LONG ARTS FESTIVAL BEGINS ...........■........... 13
SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL BEGINS TOMORROW ................. 14
VARIETY SHOW TO BEGIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL .................... 15
TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL BEGINS WITH SWIMMING MARATHON .... 16
COURTESY CALLS TO ISLANDS RURAL COMMITTEES ................. 16
AUXILIARY POLICE EXPANDING TO HELP MAINTAIN LAW AND ORDER .. 17
ROAD SAFETY PROGRAMME ON HK ISLAND ......................... 18
ILLEGAL STRUCTURES IN KOWLOON TONG TO BE CLOSED............. 18
TEMPORARY RELOCATION OF KOWLOON MAP SALES CENTRE............ 19
CLOSURE OF POST OFFICE AT CASTLE PEAK ROAD.................. 20
OLD-TYPE IDENTITY C/J?DS INVALID AS FROM NOVEMBER 6......... 20
AMENDED TIMES FOR FIRING PRACTICE .......................... 21
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN WONG TAI SIN ............... 21
NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT FOR GARDEN ROAD FLYOVER............. 22
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 3, 1989
1
HK-CHINA RELATIONSHIPS SHOULD BE TACKLED IN A PRACTICAL. PRAGMATIC MANNER: CS *****
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE WHOLE QUESTION OF HONG KONG’S RELATIONSHIPS WITH CHINA BE TACKLED IN A VERY PRACTICAL AND PRAGMATIC WAY. THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD. SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER ATTENDING THE ANNIVERSARY CEREMONY OF THE EMPLOYMENT SERVICE OF THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE, SIR DAVID SAID : "WE HAVE BEEN DOING THAT OVER THE PERIOD OF THE LAST FEW MONTHS."
"WE CERTAINLY HAVE NO WISH TO INVOLVE IN MEGAPHONE DIPLOMACY ON OUR SIDE.
"WE HAVE A LOT OF PRACTICAL ISSUES ON WHICH WE DISCUSS REGULARLY WITH THE CHINESE, AND I THINK IT'S THAT EMPHASIS THAT WE MUST CONTINUE TO MAKE IN THE MONTHS AHEAD," HE SAID.
"I AM SURE AS THINGS SETTLE DOWN WE WILL RETURN TO THE FORMER SETTLED RELATIONSHIP WITH THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES," SIR DAVID ADDED.
ASKED TO COMMENT ON ALLEGATIONS OF UNDUE FORCE USED IN MOVING VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE FROM THE CHI MA WAN DETENTION CENTRE TO PHOENIX HOUSE, THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID IT WAS AN OPERATIONAL MOVE WHICH WENT SMOOTHLY.
"THERE WERE SOME SCUFFLES INVOLVED, BUT WE RECEIVED NO COMPLAINTS FROM THE BOAT PEOPLE CONCERNED IN THAT MOVE," HE SAID.
SIR DAVID SAID THAT AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL HAD ASKED FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THE CASE AND THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CLEARLY BE QUITE PREPARED TO PROVIDE ANY INFORMATION REQUIRED OF IT, NOTING THAT THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY WOULD BE DOING JUST THAT.
HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT IN CASES WHERE THERE MIGHT BE THE DANGER OF PROBLEMS THE PRESENCE OF POLICE AND CORRECTIONAL SERVICES OFFICERS WAS NECESSARY.
"AND THERE WERE ON THAT OCCASION POLICEMEN AND INDEED CORRECTIONAL SERVICES HELD IN RESERVES IN CASE THEY WERE NEEDED," SIR DAVID SAID.
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CS PRAISES COUNCIL’S ROLE IN SOCIAL SERVICE
*****
THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE PROVIDES AN INVALUABLE FORUM WITHIN WHICH VOLUNTARY AGENCIES CAN COME TOGETHER IN COOPERATION AND TO FURTHER THE PROMOTION OF OUR WELFARE PROGRAMMES, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE COUNCIL’S EMPLOYMENT SERVICE 30TH ANNIVERSARY, SIR DAVID SAID THAT THROUGH THE COUNCIL THERE WAS A VERY USEFUL CHANNEL FOR THE EXCHANGE OF VIEWS BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR.
/"OVER THE .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
2
"OVER THE YEARS, THE VOLUNTARY' SECTOR HAS MADE AN IMMENSE CONTRIBUTION IN THE PROVISION OF OUR WELFARE AND COMMUNITY SERVICES," HE SAID.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID THE EMPLOYMENT SERVICE WAS ONE OF THE MANY SHINING EXAMPLES OF THE COUNCIL’S ACHIEVEMENTS.
NOTING THAT HONG KONG HAD MADE SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS IN THE 30 YEARS SINCE THE EMPLOYMENT SERVICE STARTED, THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID THE SUCCESS AND PROSPERITY OF A MODERN SOCIETY HAD ALSO BROUGHT WITH IT SOME OF THE STRESSES AND STRAINS OF RAPID DEVELOPMENT.
"BY INITIATING THE EMPLOYMENT SERVICE, THE COUNCIL IS HELPING TO MEET THE SPECIAL NEEDS OF THOSE GROUPS OF PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY WHO REQUIRE SPECIAL CARE AND ATTENTION," SIR DAVID SAID.
THESE INCLUDED DISCHARGED PRISONERS, REHABILITATED DRUG ADDICTS, PROBATIONERS, YOUNG PEOPLE WHO WERE AT RISK OR WERE UNDER CARE AND PROTECTION ORDERS AND OTHERS WHO NEEDED SPECIAL HELP TO SEEK EMPLOYMENT.
SIR DAVID SAID HE WAS PLEASED TO LEARN THAT THE SERVICE WAS ABLE TO ARRANGE JOB PLACEMENTS FOR OVER 92 PER CENT OF THE 600 PEOPLE REFERRED TO IT LAST YEAR, AND THAT THE SERVICE HAD BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN SECURING EMPLOYMENT FOR NEARLY ALL THE YOUNG PEOPLE AND PROBATIONERS WHO HAD SOUGHT HELP.
"I AM SURE THAT PRODUCTIVE EMPLOYMENT HAS HELPED THESE INDIVIDUALS TREMENDOUSLY IN THEIR REHABILITATION AND RE-INTEGRATION INTO SOCIETY," HE SAID.
"THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE EMPLOYMENT SERVICE WILL NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT CLOSE CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE, THE REFERRAL AGENCIES AND EMPLOYERS.
"THE CONCERN AND THE DETERMINATION TO HELP THOSE AMONG OUR COMMUNITY WHO ARE LESS FORTUNATE IS INDEED ENCOURAGING AND COMMENDABLE," SIR DAVID SAID.
------0-------'
CS PAYS TRIBUTE TO FRIENDS OF SCOUTING * t * t *
THE FRIENDS OF SCOUTING IS A PRIME EXAMPLE OF HOW VOLUNTARY' ORGANISATIONS IN HONG KONG MINISTER TO THE DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS OF OUR SOCIETY. THE CHIEF SECRETARY. SIR DAVID FORD. SAID TODAY (FRIDAY I.
SPEAKING AT THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY FUND RAISING BALL OF THE FRIENDS OF SCOUTING, SIR DAVID SAID THE GROUP HAD BLOSSOMED INTO A PROUD ORGANISATION RUNNING A FULL RANGE OF RECREATIONAL, TRAINING AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES IN EIGHT CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.
/HE NOTED .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
- 3 -
HE NOTED THAT THE ORGANISATION’S PROGRAMMES COVERED MANY AREAS INCLUDING TUTORIAL CLASSES, LIBRARY SERVICE. LEADERSHIP TRAINING, DRAMA, DANCING, SPORTS AND A VARIETY OF SPECIAL PROJECTS SUCH AS THE ’KIDNEY DONATION SINGING CONTEST’ AND 'BLOOD DONATION DAY'.
THE ORGANISATION ALSO RAN OTHER PROGRAMMES FOR PARENTS WHICH ENABLED THE WHOLE FAMILY TO PARTICIPATE.
"THROUGH ITS CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES, THE FRIENDS OF SCOUTING HAS ALSO ESTABLISHED FIVE SCOUTS GROUPS.
"THE SCOUTS MOVEMENT HAS EVOLVED WORLD-WIDE TO BECOME AN INSTITUTION WHICH PROMOTES THE HEALTHY DEVELOPMENT OF YOUNG PEOPLE AND THROUGH WHICH OUR YOUNGER GENERATION ARE TRAINED IN PRACTICAL SKILLS AND CAN DEVELOP A SENSE OF SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY," HE SAID.
CONGRATULATING THE FRIENDS OF SCOUTING FOR DISTINCTIVE SERVICE IN THE PAST 20 YEARS, SIR DAVID SAID : "THE FRIENDS OF SCOUTING IS UNIQUE IN ITS CONCEPT OF COMPLEMENTING THE SCOUTS MOVEMENT WITH A BROAD PROGRAMME OF COMMUNITY SERVICE."
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POLICE PROGRAMME FOR PRINCESS OF WALES
*****
A TYPICAL WORKING MORNING FOR RECRUITS AT THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL WILL BE THE EMPHASIS OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE PROGRAMME FOR THE PRINCESS OF WALES DURING HER THREE-DAY VISIT TO HONG KONG WITH THE PRINCE OF WALES.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL SEE DRILL AND MUSKETRY TRAINING IN PROGRESS AND WATCH RECRUITS BEING INSTRUCTED IN DEALING WITH A STREET INCIDENT.
THE PRINCESS WILL VISIT THE TRAINING SCHOOL ON THE MORNING OF NOVEMBER 9 AND AFTER WATCHING TRAINING IN PROGRESS WILL MEET TRAINEES AND OFFICERS INFORMALLY AT LUNCH IN THE OFFICERS MESS.
A QUARTER GUARD WILL BE MOUNTED AT THE SCHOOL GATE FOR THE PRINCESS' ARRIVAL AND SHE WILL BE GREETED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, MR RAYMON ANNING, WHO WILL INTRODUCE THE DIRECTOR OF PERSONNEL AND TRAINING, MR KEITH LOMAS; COMMANDANT AND ACTING DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF FORCE TRAINING, MR BENNY NG; AND CHIEF STAFF INSPECTOR, ADMINISTRATION, MISS ROSE TONG.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL VISIT THE SCHOOL’S TEACHING BLOCK AND GYMNASIUM, WHERE A SELF DEFENCE CLASS WILL BE IN PROGRESS.
SHE WILL BE BRIEFED ON ASPECTS OF POLICE TRAINING BY MR NEVILLE BROOMFIELD, HEAD OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES, AND MR BILL FULLERTON, STAFF OFFICER, CENTRAL TRAINING SERVICES DIVISION.
/AT THE ......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
4
AT THE OFFICERS MESS THE PRINCESS WILL MEET REPRESENTATIVES OF THE FORCE AS A WHOLE AND ALSO TRAINEES AND STAFF MEMBERS OF THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL. INCLUDING DEPUTY COMMANDANT MR DAVE HUGHES.
SENIOR POLICE LADIES WHO WILL HAVE THE HONOUR OF BEING PRESENTED TO HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL INCLUDE CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT FELICIA WONG, SUPERINTENDENTS PEGGY STEVENS, BONNIE SMITH AND YING HUI SAU-FONG: CHIEF INSPECTOR TSUI YEE-LIN: AND SENIOR INSPECTOR BEATRICE YOU.
AMONG THOSE PRESENT WILL BE STATION SERGEANT TSUI WAI-CHUN. CHAIRMAN OF THE JUNIOR POLICE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION, AND WOMAN POLICE CONSTABLE IRENE LAM, A GOLD MEDAL HOLDER OF THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD SCHEME.
THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL BE PIPED INTO LUNCH BY PIPE MAJOR HSU YORK-FUNG OF THE POLICE BAND.
THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE WILL PRESENT A FORCE FIGURINE TO THE PRINCESS, WHO WILL BE INVITED TO SIGN THE VISITORS’ BOOK BEFORE POSING FOR A GROUP PHOTOGRAPH ON THE STEPS OF THE MESS.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL THEN JOIN THE PRINCE OF WALES AT TUEN MUN WHERE THEY WILL ATTEND THE TUEN MUN FESTIVAL. THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS WILL VISIT GAMES STALLS ORGANISED BY MEMBERS OF TUEN MUN JUNIOR POLICE CALL.
THE ROYAL VISIT BEGINS ON NOVEMBER 7, WHEN AFTER ARRIVING FROM INDONESIA, THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS WILL SAIL ACROSS THE HARBOUR IN THE "LADY MAURINE". THE YACHT OF THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON.
ON ARRIVAL AT QUEEN’S PIER THEY WILL INSPECT A GUARD OF HONOUR MOUNTED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT (THE VOLUNTEERS) TO MUSIC BY THE BAND OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE CONDUCTED BY ITS DIRECTOR OF MUSIC. MR COLIN WOOD.
LAUNCHES OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG MARINE POLICE WILL ESCORT THE PRINCE AND THE PRINCESS IN HONG KONG WATERS AND THEIR JOURNEYS BY ROAD WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY OUTRIDERS OF THE FORCE ESCORT GROUP.
ALTHOUGH THE PRINCE OF WALES HAS VISITED HONG KONG PREVIOUSLY IT WILL BE THE FIRST VISIT TO THE TERRITORY BY HER ROYAL HIGHNESS.
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 3, 1989
- 5 -
CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT STATISTICS FOR 2ND QUARTER RELEASED *******
THE GROSS VALUE OF 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 1989 AMOUNTED TO #11,922 MILLION, WHICH WAS 0.5 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1989, AND 20.4 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1988.
THIS IS SHOWN BY THE RESULTS OF THE QUARTERLY SURVEY OF CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE INDEX OF GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS FOR THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 WAS 180.9, WITH THE QUARTERLY AVERAGE OF 1982 BEING TAKEN AS 100. THE CORRESPONDING INDEXES FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1989 AND THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1988 WERE 180.1 AND 150.3 RESPECTIVELY.
WITH REGARD TO THE INCREASE OF 20.4 PER CENT IN THE VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 OVER THE SAME QUARTER IN 1988, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT THAT THIS WAS MOSTLY ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE INCREASE IN CONSTRUCTION COSTS.
AFTER DISCOUNTING THE COST INCREASES, THE REAL GROWTH IN THE VOLUME OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED WAS SUBSTANTIALLY LESS. THIS POINT SHOULD BE BORNE IN MIND IN INTERPRETING THE SURVEY RESULTS.
THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS AT CONSTRUCTION SITES IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 WAS #9,200 MILLION. THIS WAS 2.1 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER AND 18.4 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1988.
APART FROM WORK PERFORMED AT CONSTRUCTION SITES, THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS AT ERECTED BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES AND OTHER MINOR ' WORK LOCATIONS WAS #2,722 MILLION, WHICH WAS 4.8 PER CENT LOWER THAN IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER BUT 27.9 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1988.
OF THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS AT CONSTRUCTION SITES, #3,001 MILLION WAS RELATED TO CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS OF THE PUBLIC SECTOR (INCLUDING THE GOVERNMENT, MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION AND KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION). THIS REPRESENTED INCREASES OF 0.4 PER CENT AND 17.6 PER CENT OVER THE PRECEDING QUARTER AND THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1988 RESPECTIVELY.
AS FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR, THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS AT CONSTRUCTION SITES WAS #6,199 MILLION, WHICH WAS 3.0 PER CENT AND 18.8 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER AND THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1988 RESPECTIVELY.
/WHEN ANALYSED
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
- 6
WHEN ANALYSED BY END-USE OF BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES, THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS AT CONSTRUCTION SITES IN RESPECT OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS (WHICH INCLUDE COMBINED RESIDENTIAL AND NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS) AND TRANSPORT PROJECTS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 WAS S3,989 MILLION AND SI,450 MILLION RESPECTIVELY.
THIS REPRESENTED INCREASES OF 7.0 PER CENT AND 11.6 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY OVER THE PRECEDING QUARTER, AND OF 10.4 PER CENT AND 24.6 PER CENT OVER THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1988.
THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS AT CONSTRUCTION SITES IN RESPECT OF COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 WAS SI,418 MILLION, REPRESENTING A DECREASE OF 9.6 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING QUARTER BUT AN INCREASE OF 24.3 PER CENT OVER THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1988.
OWING TO THE WIDESPREAD SUB-CONTRACTING PRACTICE IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR, A CONSTRUCTION ESTABLISHMENT CAN BE A MAIN CONTRACTOR FOR ONE CONTRACT AND A SUB-CONTRACTOR FOR ANOTHER CONTRACT SIMULTANEOUSLY.
THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY MAIN CONTRACTORS REFERS TO THE OUTPUT OF THOSE CONSTRUCTION ESTABLISHMENTS IN THE PROJECTS IN WHICH THEY TAKE THE ROLE OF A MAIN CONTRACTOR, AND DOES NOT INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT OF PROJECTS WHERE THEY PLAY THE ROLE OF SUB-CONTRACTORS.
HOWEVER. SUB-CONTRACTORS’ CONTRIBUTION TO PROJECTS SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN THE GROSS VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORK PERFORMED BY THE MAIN CONTRACTORS FOR WHOM THEY WORKED.
MORE DETAILED INFORMATION ON CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT IS GIVEN IN THE ’’REPORT ON THE QUARTERLY SURVEY OF CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT, 2ND QUARTER 1989".
THE REPORT IS ON SALE AT S2.50 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GPO BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AND AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES COUNTER, WANCHAI TOWER I, 19TH FLOOR, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI. REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION MAY ALSO BE ARRANGED.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND REAL ESTATE STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 5-8234860.
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/7........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
7
BILL INTENDED TO ENHANCE WORK OF CUSTOMS ♦ * » ♦ ♦
A BILL TO IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 COMPLETED A REVIEW OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE ORDINANCE.
ONE PROPOSAL SEEKS TO GIVE TO MEMBERS OF THE SERVICE A CENTRALISED POWER TO EXAMINE CARGO THAT IS IMPORTED OR ABOUT TO BE EXPORTED.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID SUCH POWER WAS CURRENTLY SPREAD THROUGHOUT 19 ORDINANCES ENFORCED BY THE SERVICE.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE NEW SEARCH POWER COULD ONLY BE EXERCISED AT ENTRY OR EXIT POINTS OR WHERE CARGO WAS STORED PRIOR TO COLLECTION BY A CONSIGNEE.
"IN THE CASE OF ACCOMPANIED PERSONAL BELONGINGS, ANY MEMBER OF THE SERVICE MAY REQUEST PERMISSION TO EXAMINE THEM.
"IF THE REQUEST IS REFUSED, ONLY AN OFFICER NOT BELOW THE RANK OF INSPECTOR OF CUSTOMS AND EXCISE CAN ORDER THAT THE EXAMINATION TAKE PLACE," HE SAID.
ANOTHER PROPOSED AMENDMENT GIVES OFFICERS NOT BELOW THE RANK OF INSPECTOR THE POWER TO REQUIRE THE PRODUCTION OF A TRAVEL DOCUMENT.
"THIS IS NECESSARY, FOR EXAMPLE, TO ENABLE OFFICERS WORKING AT THE CONTROL POINTS TO ASCERTAIN THE DEGREE OF SUSPICION OF A PASSENGER OR TO VERIFY THAT A PASSENGER IS A VISITOR AND THUS ENTITLED TO THE DUTY-FREE CONCESSION," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE BILL IS EXPECTED TO BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 15.
- - 0 - -
MA TAU KOK OZP APPROVED ♦ ♦ t ♦ »
THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD TODAY (FRIDAY) PUBLISHED THE OUTLINE ZONING PLAN FOR MA TAU KOK WHICH WAS APPROVED BY THE . GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL ON JULY 4.
THE PLAN COVERS AN AREA OF ABOUT 152 HECTARES IN THE EASTERN PART OF KOWLOON. IT IS BOUNDED BY TUNG TAU TSUEN ROAD TO THE NORTH, HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AND KOWLOON BAY TO THE EAST, NGAN HON STREET AND SAN LAU STREET TO THE SOUTH, AND TIN KWONG ROAD TO THE WEST.
/THE PLANNING
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, '’989
- 8
THE PLANNING AREA IS ONE OF THE OLDER URBAN AREAS IN KOWLOON WHICH HAS BEEN SUBSTANTIALLY DEVELOPED FOR RESIDENTIAL AND INDUSTRIAL USES.
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT, WHICH IS THE PREDOMINANT LAND USE, INCLUDES PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES AS WELL AS PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS.
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, MOSTLY IN THE FORM OF FLATTED FACTORY BUILDINGS FOR LIGHT MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES, IS MAINLY CONCENTRATED IN THE EASTERN PART OF THE PLANNING AREA.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD SAID THE OBJECTIVE OF THE PLAN IS TO ESTABLISH A STATUTORY LAND USE FRAMEWORK WHEREBY THE VARIOUS USES OF LAND IN THE PLANNING AREA CAN BE DEVELOPED OR REDEVELOPED IN AN ORDERLY MANNER.
IN THE PLAN, 0.12 PER CENT OF THE AREA (0.18 HECTARES) IS ZONED FOR MIXED COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL USES, 31.01 PER CENT (47.17 HECTARES) FOR RESIDENTIAL USES, INCLUDING PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES, 7.52 PER CENT (11.44 HECTARES) FOR INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, AND 27.26 PER CENT (41.46 HECTARES) FOR GOVERNMENT/INSTITUTION/COMMUNITY AND OPEN SPACE USES.
A FURTHER 2.73 PER CENT (4.15 HECTARES) IS ZONED FOR OTHER SPECIFIED USES INCLUDING THE MILITARY RECREATION GROUND, THE HONG KONG SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION GROUND AT TIN KWONG ROAD, AND THE KOWLOON CITY PASSENGER AND VEHICULAR FERRY PIERS.
THE REST OF THE AREA (47.71 HECTARES) IS ZONED FOR ROADS.
THE PLAN CAN BE INSPECTED AT THE FOLLOWING ADDRESSES:
- PUBLIC ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, WEST WING ENTRANCE, HONG KONG, AND .
- THE TOWN PLANNING OFFICE, BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, FOURTH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG.
COPIES OF THE APPROVED PLAN ARE AVAILABLE AT THE MAP AND PLAN SALES SECTION, SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG AND THE KOWLOON MAT’ AND PLAN SALES SECTION, 382 NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON. (FROM MONDAY, THE KOWLOON SECTION WILL BE RELOCATED TEMPORARILY TO THE KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 405 NATHAN ROAD).
THE UNCOLOURED VERSION COSTS $10 AND THE COLOURED PRINTED VERSION COSTS $50.
-------O----------
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
- 9 -
THREE GOVERNMENT LOTS FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ***»»*
THREE GOVERNMENT LAND LOTS WILL BE OFFERED FOR SALE BY THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT AT A PUBLIC AUCTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 28 IN THE CITY HALL THEATRE.
THE AUCTION WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
THE LOTS INCLUDE TWO IN THE NEW TERRITORIES FOR INDUSTRIAL AND/OR GODOWN PURPOSES EXCLUDING OFFENSIVE TRADE.
ONE OF THESE IS LOCATED IN AREA 8, TAI PO, AND HAS AN AREA OF ABOUT 2,230 SQUARE METRES.
ACCORDING TO THE BUILDING COVENANT, THE DEVELOPER IS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 12,711 SQUARE METRES BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 1993.
THE OTHER LOT FOR THE SAME PURPOSE IS LOCATED IN AREA 4B, SHEUNG SHUI.
IT COVERS AN AREA OF ABOUT 3,785 SQUARE METRES AND THE DEVELOPER IS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 11,355 SQUARE METRES BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 1992 WITH NOT LESS THAN 1,890 SQUARE METRES OF MOTOR VEHICLE WORKSHOPS ON THE FIRST FLOOR.
THE THIRD LOT, WHICH COVERS AN AREA OF ABOUT 5,921 SQUARE METRES, IS LOCATED AT CARPENTER ROAD, KOWLOON CITY.
THE LOT IS FOR NON-INDUSTRIAL (EXCLUDING RESIDENTIAL, GODOWN AND HOTEL) PURPOSES AND INCLUDING A MANDATORY PROVISION OF A MULTI-STOREY CARPARK AND A CINEMA/THEATRE OF NOT LESS THAN 400 SEATS.
THE BUILDING COVENANT STIPULATES THAT A GROSS FLOOR. AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 23,300 SQUARE METRES HAS TO BE COMPLETED ON THE LOT BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 1993.
FULL PARTICULARS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM, AND SALE PLANS CAN BE SEEN, AT THE FOLLOWING OFFICES:
* THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG;
* THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, CENTRAL ENQUIRIES SUB-OFFICE, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES I WEST WING), GROUND FLOOR, HONG KONG; AND
t THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICES KOWLOON, YAU MA TEI CARPARK BUILDING, 10TH FLOOR, 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON.
CONDITIONS OF SALE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT ALL DISTRICT LANDS OFFICES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
O - -
/1O
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
10
PREQUALIFICATION EXERCISE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF LIBRARY AND GOVT OFFICES COMPLEX
* * * * *
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING CONTRACTORS TO PARTICIPATE IN A PREQUALIFICATION EXERCISE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SUPERSTRUCTURE FOR THE TSUEN WAN CENTRAL PUBLIC LIBRARY AND GOVERNMENT OFFICES COMPLEX.
THE PROJECT WILL INVOLVE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 24-STOREY OFFICE TOWER AND A FOUR-STOREY LIBRARY BLOCK FOR THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT ON TOP OF A COMMON FOUR-STOREY PODIUM.
THE 3,320 SQUARE METRE SITE WILL PROVIDE FOR 18,000 SQUARE METRE NET FLOOR AREA OF OFFICE ACCOMMODATION AND 3,000 SQUARE METRE NET FLOOR AREA FOR THE LIBRARY.
THE PROJECT WILL ALSO INCLUDE AN ELEVATED PEDESTRIAN WALKWAY TO LINK UP WITH THE ADJACENT BUILDINGS.
THE CONTRACT PERIOD WILL BE 24 MONTHS.
ONLY CONTRACTORS ON THE LANDS AND WORKS APPROVED CONTRACTORS LIST 1 GROUP "C" FOR "BUILDING" MAY APPLY FOR PREQUALIFICATION.
THEY SHOULD SUBMIT THEIR APPLICATION TO THE DIRECTOR OF ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES, (ATTN. CHIEF ARCHITECT/1), 41ST FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, BY NOVEMBER 24.
A NOTICE ON THE PREQUALIFICATION EXERCISE WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
- - 0 -
ACCESS FOR LA SALLE ROAD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
*****
THE CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT PROPOSES TO CARRY OUT ROADWORKS TO PROVIDE ACCESS TO THE NEW PLATFORMS FORMED UNDER THE LA SALLE ROAD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT IN KOWLOON CITY.
THE PROPOSED WORKS INCLUDE:
* CONSTRUCTION OF ABOUT 600 METRES OF CARRIAGEWAY AND
ASSOCIATED FOOTPATH AROUND THE PERIMETER OF THE NEW
PLATFORMS TO BE FORMED EAST OF THE EXISTING RENFREW ROAD AND NORTH OF THE EXISTING HEREFORD ROAD AND CONNECTING TO THESE TWO ROADS;
* REALIGNMENT AND WIDENING OF A SECTION OF HEREFORD ROAD EAST OF RENFREW ROAD;
/• REALIGNMENT OF
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
11
* REALIGNMENT OF THE VEHICULAR ACCESS TO RHENISH CHURCH COLLEGE;
» CONVERSION OF A SECTION OF FOOTPATH AT RENFREW ROAD INTO CARRIAGEWAY; AND
* ASSOCIATED SLOPE WORKS.
THESE WORKS WILL START IN MARCH NEXT YEAR AND BE COMPLETED IN 20 MONTHS.
DETAILS OF THE PROPOSAL WERE PUBLISHED IN A NOTICE IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY). A NOTICE CAN BE SEEN POSTED NEAR THE SITE OF THE PROPOSED WORKS.
THE PLAN AND SCHEME MAY BE INSPECTED AT THE FOLLOWING GOVERNMENT OFFICES:
* CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, CENTRAL ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, WEST WING, MAIN ENTRANCE LOBBY, HONG KONG;
» KOWLOON WEST DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, YAU MA TEI CAR PARK BUILDING, 10TH FLOOR, 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON; AND
» KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT OFFICE, 141-143 KAU PUI LUNG ROAD, FIRST FLOOR, KOWLOON.
ANY PERSON WHO OBJECTS TO THE PROPOSED WORKS SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT. CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG NOT LATER THAN DECEMBER 26 THIS YEAR.
-----o -----
TENDERS INVITED FOR WANG CHIU ROAD CONSTRUCTION WORKS
*****
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF WANG CHIU ROAD BETWEEN SHEUNG YUET ROAD AND SHEUNG YEE ROAD, KOWLOON BAY.
A TENDER NOTICE WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
UPON COMPLETION OF THE NEW ROAD, LOCAL TRAFFIC CIRCULATION WILL BE GREATLY IMPROVED. THERE WILL ALSO BE A SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT TO THE ROAD NETWORK IN KOWLOON BAY.
LANDSCAPING WORKS WILL ALSO BE CARRIED OUT TO ENHANCE THE ENVIRONMENT ALONG WANG CHIU ROAD.
THE WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START IN LATE DECEMBER AND BE COMPLETED BY AUGUST NEXT YEAR.
THE WORKS HAVE BEEN DESIGNED BY THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT WHICH WILL ALSO SUPERVISE CONSTRUCTION.
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/12
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
- 12 -
LONDON TO MAINTAIN HOTLINE SERVICE FOR HK VISITORS
*****
THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT OFFICE IN LONDON IS TO MAKE PERMANENT ITS TELEPHONE ADVISORY SERVICE <TAS) FOR HONG KONG VISITORS.
THE TAS WAS INTRODUCED A YEAR AGO ON A TRIAL BASIS AFTER A NUMBER OF HONG KONG PEOPLE COMPLAINED THAT THEY HAD FACED DIFFICULTIES WHEN ENTERING THE UK AND, IN SOME CASES, WERE REFUSED ENTRY.
SINCE THE INTRODUCTION, A TOTAL OF 65 CALLS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED. OF THESE, 16 WERE REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE AND 49 WERE MISCELLANEOUS ENQUIRIES.
THE HONG KONG COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, MR JOHN YAXLEY, SAID DEMANDS ON THE SERVICE HAD NOT BEEN GREAT BUT IT WAS WORTHWHILE MAINTAINING THE FACILITY.
"WHILE THERE IS NO EVIDENCE THAT HONG KONG PEOPLE ARE BEING DISCRIMINATED AGAINST, THERE WILL ALWAYS BE OCCASIONS WHEN MISUNDERSTANDINGS OCCUR SO IT HELPS TO HAVE SOMEONE AVAILABLE WHO CAN EXPLAIN THE PROCEDURES IN CANTONESE," HE SAID.
THE TAS HAD BEEN ESTABLISHED TO ADVISE HONG KONG VISITORS OF THEIR RIGHTS REGARDING IMMIGRATION REGULATIONS AND APPEAL PROCEDURES IN BRITAIN. ITS PURPOSE, HOWEVER, WAS NOT TO CHALLENGE ANY IMMIGRATION DECISIONS TAKEN BY UK IMMIGRATION OFFICERS.
"IF ANY VISITOR IS AGGRIEVED BY ANY IMMIGRATION DECISION, HE SHOULD APPEAL IN ACCORDANCE WITH ESTABLISHED PROCEDURES OF THE UK IMMIGRATION SERVICE," MR YAXLEY SAID.
THE TAS (TEL. NO. 01-629-5068) IS OPERATED BY BILINGUAL STAFF OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT OFFICE SEVEN DAYS A WEEK FROM 9 AM TO 5.30 PM.
-----o------
FIREMEN MUST BE WELL PREPARED
*****
FIREMEN HAVE TO DEAL WITH EMERGENCIES AND THEREFORE THEY MUST BE WELL PREPARED, THE CHIEF FIRE OFFICER (PROTECTION), MR LI KWOK-CHOI, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
ADDRESSING A PASSING OUT PARADE OF NINE STATION OFFICERS AND 41 FIREMEN AT THE FIRE SERVICES TRAINING SCHOOL, MR LI URGED THE GRADUATES TO FOLLOW THE MAXIM OF "PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT" AS IT WAS NO SECRET THAT A FIREMAN’S SKILLS REQUIRED DEDICATION TO THE JOB.
/"THE OLYMPIC
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 13 -
"THE OLYMPIC COMPETITORS SPEND YEARS OF CONTINUOUS TRAINING JUST FOR THE GLORY OF THAT MOMENT ON THE DAIS, IF THEY WIN," HE SAID.
"YOU RECEIVE YOUR GLORY IN A DIFFERENT WAY, KNOWING THAT SOME TIME IN YOUR CAREER, SOMEWHERE IN THIS TERRITORY, YOU WILL BE CALLED UPON TO PERFORM THE MOST SACRED DUTY TO SAVE LIVES AND TO PROTECT PROPERTY, AND YOU SHOULD DO YOUR BEST TO UPHOLD THE TRADITION OF THE HONG KONG FIRE SERVICES."
WELCOMING THE GRADUATES AS NEW MEMBERS OF THE DISCIPLINED SERVICE, MR LI STRESSED THAT DISCIPLINE WAS NECESSARY, AND HAD MORE THAN A CEREMONIAL SIGNIFICANCE.
"DISCIPLINE GENERATES CONFIDENCE BOTH WAYS: TO THE LEADER IT MEANS HE HAS A RELIABLE TEAM, AND TO THOSE BEING LED THE ORDERS GIVEN ARE CORRECT AND WORKABLE," HE ADDED.
AFTER REVIEWING THE PARADE, MR LI PRESENTED THE BEST RECRUIT AWARDS TO STATION OFFICER CHAN MAN-KWONG AND FIREMAN LEUNG KAM-MING.
------0--------
TENTH YUEN LONG ARTS FESTIVAL BEGINS ♦ ♦ » t ♦
THE 10TH YUEN LONG ARTS FESTIVAL, ONE OF THE MOST COLOURFUL CULTURAL EVENTS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, OPENED THIS (FRIDAY) EVENING WITH A SPECTACULAR VARIETY SHOW AT THE LUT SAU HALL.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES. MR ADOLF HSU, SAID THE ANNUAL FESTIVAL PROVIDED AN OPPORTUNITY FOR RESIDENTS TO DEVELOP AN INTEREST IN THE ARTS AND TO ENRICH THEIR CULTURAL LIFE.
HE POINTED OUT THAT AS MORE PEOPLE MOVED INTO NEWLY ESTABLISHED HOUSING ESTATES, IT WAS ESSENTIAL TO PROVIDE THEM WITH MORE COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES TO HELP THEM ADAPT TO THE NEW ENVIRONMENT.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE YUEN LONG ARTS FESTIVAL CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE, MR CHOW YIU-WING, SAID THE FESTIVAL’S AIM HAD ALL ALONG BEEN TO ENHANCE RESIDENTS’ SENSE OF BELONGING TO THE DISTRICT.
HE NOTED THAT ONE MAJOR FEATURE OF THIS YEAR’S PROGRAMMES WAS THE STAGING OF A WIDE VARIETY OF EVENTS AT DIFFERENT VENUES SO AS TO SPREAD THE FESTIVAL TO EVERY CORNER OF THE DISTRICT.
THE FESTIVAL IS OFFERING 22 EVENTS INCLUDING CONCERTS, DRAMAS, OPERAS, DANCES, VARIETY SHOWS, FILMS AND EXHIBITIONS.
THE FESTIVAL, WHICH WILL RUN UNTIL NOVEMBER 12, IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD, THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT ARTS COMMITTEE AND THE YUEN LONG TOWN HALL, WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE REGIONAL COUNCIL AND COMMERCIAL ORGANISATIONS.
THE ESTIMATED BUDGET FOR THE FESTIVAL EXCEEDS $1.1 MILLION.
------0-------
/14......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
- 1U
SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL BEGINS TOMORROW
*****
ABOUT 3,000 SOUTHERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS WILL BE TREATED TO A VARIETY SHOW TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) EVENING TO START OFF THE MONTH-LONG DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
THE THREE-HOUR SHOW WILL BE HELD AT THE ABERDEEN SPORTS GROUND IN WONG CHUK HANG, BEGINNING AT 6.30 PM.
THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR DAVID LAN, WILL ATTEND THE SHOW AND OFFICIATE AT A SWITCHING-ON AND RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS INCLUDE DISTRICT OFFICER, MRS MAUREEN CHAN; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR HUI YUNG-CHUNG; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MRS SO CHAU YIM-PING.
PRODUCED BY YIU WING ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, THE SHOW WILL FEATURE PERFORMANCES BY POPULAR SINGERS SHIRLEY KWAN, GINA LAM, EDDIE NG AND YOLINDA YAN. DISC JOCKEY BRENDA LO WILL COMPERE THE SHOW.
FLOATS PROVIDED BY THE DISTRICT'S SEVEN AREA COMMITTEES WILL TOUR THE DISTRICT EARLIER IN THE DAY TO DISTRIBUTE PROGRAMME LEAFLETS AND SOUVENIRS TO ENHANCE THE FESTIVAL ATMOSPHERE.
THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL LAST UNTIL DECEMBER 3.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID AN IMPRESSIVE COLLECTION OF HISTORICAL PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE DISTRICT DATING BACK TO THE 19TH CENTURY WILL BE EXHIBITED FROM TOMORROW AS PART OF THE FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD AT THE AP LEI CHAU COMMUNITY HALL, AP LEI CHAU ESTATE. IT WILL BE OPEN FROM -9 AM TO 6 PM DAILY INCLUDING SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS THROUGHOUT THE FESTIVAL PERIOD, EXCEPT ON NOVEMBER 12, 19, 25 AND 26 AND DECEMBER 2.
THE EXHIBITION ALSO INCLUDES 26 PRIZE-WINNING ENTRIES IN THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL PHOTOGRAPH COMPETITION WHICH TAKES ON THE THEME OF "SOUTHERN DISTRICT TODAY".
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THE FESTIVAL OFFERS 19 OTHER RECREATIONAL, CULTURAL, ENTERTAINMENT, SPORTS, MUSIC, ARTS AND CIVIC EDUCATION ACTIVITIES FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES AND INTERESTS.
MOST OF THESE WILL BE HELD ON WEEKENDS OR IN THE EVENINGS OF WEEKDAYS SO THAT MORE PEOPLE CAN ATTEND.
/ALL THE
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, ">989
ALL THE EVENTS OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ARE FREE. PROGRAMME LEAFLETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES. TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 5-540271.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL OPENING CEREMONY AND VARIETY SHOW TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE ABERDEEN SPORTS GROUND IN WONG CHUK HANG, BEGINNING AT 6.30 PM.
PRESS BADGES WILL BE ISSUED AT THE RECEPTION COUNTER AT THE VENUE.
-----0------
VARIETY SHOW TO BEGIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL
» * * » »
A VARIETY SHOW WILL MARK THE GRAND OPENING OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL AT THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL TOMORROW (SATURDAY) EVENING.
MORE THAN 1,300 LOCAL RESIDENTS WILL ATTEND THE SHOW WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM. ADMISSION IS FREE.
ORGANISED BY THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, THE TWO-HOUR SHOW WILL FEATURE PERFORMANCES BY POPULAR SINGERS JOHNNY YIP AND MAK KIT-MAN.
THERE WILL ALSO BE PERFORMANCES BY THE WONG TAI SIN CHILDREN’S CHOIR AND THE MIRANDA CHIN DANCING GROUP, AS WELL AS LION DANCE.
TELEVISION ARTIST PANG KIN-SUN AND DISC JOCKEY ANGEL LEUNG WILL BE MASTERS OF CEREMONY. THEY WILL ALSO GIVE THE AUDIENCE AN OUTLINE OF THE HISTORY OF WONG TAI SIN AND ITS SCENIC ATTRACTIONS.
OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR DAVID LAN: CHAIRMAN OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD, DR MICHAEL LEE; VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL. MR STEPHEN LAU; DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BRIAN LAU; MISS ASIA PACIFIC. MISS YUNG HUNG; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR ALBERT LI.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY AND VARIETY SHOW OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL IN KOWLOON TONG.
- 0 ----------
/16........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
- 16 -
TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL BEGINS WITH SWIMMING MARATHON *****
THE 11TH TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL WILL BEGIN WITH A GRAND OPENING AND A MARATHON SWIMMING COMPETITION TOMORROW (SATURDAY) MORNING.
THE 1,500-METRE SWIM WILL START AT 10 AM AT APPROACH BEACH IN TSUEN WAN AND FINISH AT LIDO BEACH.
DISTRICT OFFICER, MR WILLIAM SHIU, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE STARTING CEREMONY.
THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR ADOLF HSU, WILL PRESENT PRIZES TO WINNERS AT A CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT LIDO BEACH AT 10.45 AM.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MONTH-LONG TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL INCLUDE TABLE TENNIS AND MARTIAL ARTS DEMONSTRATIONS BY TEAMS FROM CHINA AND A BOXING COMPETITION.
FREE ADMISSION TICKETS AND PROGRAMME LEAFLETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICES CENTRES OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE.
THE SPORTS FESTIVAL IS ORGANISED BY THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD, DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE FEDERATION OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT SPORTS AND RECREATION ASSOCIATIONS. EXPENDITURE OF THE FESTIVAL IS ESTIMATED TO BE OVER SI MILLION.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING OF THE 11TH TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL AND THE MARATHON SWIMMING COMPETITION TOMORROW (SATURDAY) MORNING.
TRANSPORT HAS BEEN ARRANGED TO TAKE MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES TO THE STARTING POINT AT APPROACH BEACH. IT WILL LEAVE THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE AT TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING AT 9.15 AM.
-------0---------
COURTESY CALLS TO ISLANDS RURAL COMMITTEES
*****
THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICER, MR KIM SALKELD, TODAY (FRIDAY) PAID COURTESY CALLS TO LOCAL LEADERS AND VILLAGE REPRESENTATIVES ON LANTAU ISLAND AND NORTH LAMMA.
ON LANTAU, MR SALKELD VISITED MUI WO, PUI O AND TUNG CHUNG RURAL COMMITTEES BEFORE TOURING THE 12 VILLAGES AT YUNG SHUE WAN COVERED BY THE NORTH LAMMA RURAL COMMITTEE.
/TODAY'S GETTING
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, "’989
- 17 -
TODAY'S "GETTING TO KNOW YOU" TOUR WAS HIS SECOND IN THE DISTRICT SINCE HE TOOK UP OFFICE IN MID-OCTOBER.
LAST WEEK, MR SALKELD VISITED THE THREE RURAL COMMITTEES ON PENG CHAU, CHEUNG CHAU AND SOUTH LAMMA.
AUXILIARY POLICE EXPANDING TO HELP MAINTAIN LAW AND ORDER * * * * »
TO MEET THE EVER-INCREASING REQUIREMENT OF SOCIETY, THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY POLICE ARE EXPANDING CONTINUOUSLY TO REINFORCE THEIR REGULAR COUNTERPARTS IN MAINTAINING THE LAW AND ORDER OF HONG KONG.
THIS WAS STATED BY A MEMBER OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, MR CHAN BING-WOON, WHEN HE TOOK THE SALUTE AT A PASSING OUT PARADE OF THE ANNUAL TRAINING CAMP OF THE SPECIAL DUTIES COMPANY HONG KONG 11) (AUXILIARY) AT THE AUXILIARY POLICE HEADQUARTERS THIS (FRIDAY) EVENING.
WITH AN INCREASING INFLUX OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE, MR CHAN PRAISED THE SPECIAL DUTIES COMPANY FOR PROVIDING GREAT ASSISTANCE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF VBP DETENTION CENTRES.
"IN ORDER TO TAKE UP THIS COMMITMENT, SOME OF THE AUXILIARY OFFICERS HAVE TO ASK FOR LEAVE FROM THEIR EMPOLOYERS. THIS READINESS TO SACRIFICE THEIR LEISURE AND FAMILY LIFE REALLY DESERVES OUR RECOGNITION," HE SAID.
POINTING OUT THAT THERE WERE CEMETERIES AND BEACHES IN CHAI WAN AREA, MR CHAN SAID ADDITIONAL MANPOWER WOULD BE DEPLOYED TO DIRECT TRAFFIC AND CARRY OUT CROWD CONTROL DUTIES DURING CHING MING AND CHUNG YEUNG FESTIVALS AND THE SUMMER SEASON. HE ADDED THAT THE SPECIAL DUTIES COMPANY HAD PLAYED A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN THIS RESPECT.
IN CONCLUSION. THE DFCC MEMBER CALLD ON THE YOUNGER GENERATION IN THE DISTRICT TO JOIN THE AUXILIARY FORCE TO HELP MAINTAIN THE LAW AND ORDER IN THE TERRITORY.
ON PARADE TODAY WERE 170 OFFICERS WHO HAVE JUST COMPLETED AN ANNUAL WEEK-LONG TRAINING COURSE.
- 0 ---------
/18........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
18
ROAD SAFETY PROGRAMME ON HK ISLAND *****
A ROAD SAFETY PROGRAMME WILL BE CONDUCTED AT TRAFFIC ACCIDENT BLACKSPOTS ON HONG KONG ISLAND IN THE NEXT TWO DAYS (SATURDAY AND. SUNDAY).
THE "PEDESTRIAN ROAD SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAMME", WHICH IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE ROAD SAFETY ASSOCIATION AND THE TRAFFIC HONG KONG ISLAND OF THE POLICE, AIMS TO EDUCATE PEDESTRIANS ON PROPER ROAD CROSSING BEHAVIOUR.
DURING THE TWO-DAY PROGRAMME, SOME 100 MEMBERS OF THE SCHOOL ROAD SAFETY PATROL WILL BE DEPLOYED IN DISTRIBUTING EDUCATIONAL LEAFLETS TO PEDESTRIANS FOUND TO VIOLATE THE ROAD CROSSING CODE.
UNDER POLICE SUPERVISION, THEIR ACTIVITIES WILL COVER SEVEN TRAFFIC ACCIDENT BLACKSPOTS IN EASTERN, WAN CHAI, CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICTS.
AN OPENING CEREMONY OF THE PROGRAMME WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT 10.30 AM OUTSIDE THE ROAD SAFETY ASSOCIATION AT 2 STADIUM PATH, SO KON PO, HONG KONG.
THE POLICE REGIONAL COMMANDER, HONG KONG ISLAND, MR JOHN CLEMENCE, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE CEREMONY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE "PEDESTRIAN ROAD SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAMME" TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT 10.30 AM OUTSIDE THE ROAD SAFETY ASSOCIATION AT 2 STADIUM PATH, SO KON PO, HONG KONG.
AFTER THE CEREMONY, YOU ARE ALSO INVITED TO BOARD A BUS WHICH WILL TAKE YOU TO SOME OF THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT BLACKSPOTS TO SEE THE ROAD SAFETY PATROL MEMBERS AT WORK.
- - 0 - -
ILLEGAL STRUCTURES IN KOWLOON TONG TO BE CLOSED
******
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE CERTAIN ILLEGAL STRUCTURES IN KOWLOON TONG SO THAT THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT DANGERS TO THE OCCUPIERS AND TO THE PUBLIC.
THEY ARE AT APARTMENTS H ON THE SEVENTH AND THE EIGHTH FLOORS OF MARCONI COURT, 2 MARCONI ROAD.
/THE CLOSURES
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
- 19 -
THE CLOSURES ARE PART OF AN EXERCISE TO ENFORCE ORDERS ISSUED UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE IN JUNE 1989 AND MARCH 1985 REQUIRING THE DEMOLITION OF THE STRUCTURES.
NOTICES OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR CLOSURE ORDERS FROM THE SHA TIN DISTRICT COURT ON JANUARY 5 NEXT YEAR WERE POSTED ON CONSPICUOUS PARTS OF THE STRUCTURES TODAY (FRIDAY).
IT IS EXPECTED THAT DEMOLITION WILL START ONCE CLOSURE ORDERS ARE OBTAINED.
------0-------
TEMPORARY RELOCATION OF KOWLOON MAP SALES CENTRE » t t ♦ »
THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE’S KOWLOON MAP SALES CENTRE WILL BE RELOCATED TO THE KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING FROM MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6).
THE EXISTING SINGLE-STOREY SALES CENTRE, LOCATED AT THE JUNCTION OF NATHAN ROAD AND GASCOIGNE ROAD, WILL BE CLOSED FOR DEMOLITION, AFTER MORNING BUSINESS, AT NOON TOMORROW (SATURDAY).
TOGETHER WITH THE ADJACENT AMENITIES AREA, THE CENTRE WILL BE REDEVELOPED INTO A LANDSCAPED GARDEN TO BLEND IN WITH THE OVERALL DEVELOPMENT OF THE BLOCK.
A NEW MAP SALES CENTRE WILL BE ESTABLISHED WITHIN THE LANDSCAPED AREA.
DURING THE CONSTRUCTION PERIOD, WHICH IS EXPECTED TO LAST FOR ABOUT SIX MONTHS, THE MAP SALES CENTRE WILL BE RELOCATED ON THE 1OTH FLOOR, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 405 NATHAN ROAD.
THE CENTRE’S OPENING HOURS WILL BE 9 AM TO 5 PM WITHOUT LUNCH BREAK, MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS; AND FROM 9 AM .TO NOON ON SATURDAYS.
MAP SALES SERVICES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT THE 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING; THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GPO BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL; AND AT VARIOUS DISTRICT SURVEY OFFICES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
-----0------
/20........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
- 20 -
CLOSURE OF POST OFFICE AT CASTLE PEAK ROAD
*****
THE TSUEN WAN POST OFFICE LOCATED AT 407 CASTLE PEAK ROAD WILL BE CLOSED DOWN AT THE END OF BUSINESS AT 1 PM ON NOVEMBER 11. THE POST OFFICE ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE POST OFFICE SAID THE CLOSURE WAS DUE TO THE EXPIRY OF THE LEASE FOR THE PREMISES.
"CUSTOMERS WHO NORMALLY VISIT THIS POST OFFICE SHOULD GO TO THE TSUEN WING STREET POST OFFICE, WHICH IS THE NEAREST POST OFFICE IN THE AREA.
"ITS ADDRESS IS 18-32 TSUEN WING STREET," HE SAID.
"THE POST OFFICE REGRETS ANY INCONVENIENCE THAT MAY BE CAUSED TO CUSTOMERS IN THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT," HE ADDED.
-------o----------
OLD-TYPE IDENTITY CARDS INVALID AS FROM NOVEMBER 6
*****
THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) REMINDED WOMEN BORN BETWEEN 1951 AND 1956 THAT THEIR OLD-TYPE IDENTITY CARDS ISSUED BEFORE JULY 1, 1987, WILL CEASE TO BE VALID DOCUMENTS FROM NOVEMBER 6.
"THIS IS THE SIXTH BATCH OF IDENTITY CARDS DECLARED INVALID SINCE THE NEW IDENTITY CARD RE-ISSUE SCHEME STARTED IN JULY, 1987, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SAID.
HE EMPHASISED THAT ONCE AN OLD CARD WAS DECLARED INVALID, IT WOULD NOT BE ACCEPTED FOR ANY PURPOSE.
"FOR EXAMPLE, WOMEN OF THE ABOVE AGE GROUP HOLDING AN INVALID OLD-TYPE IDENTITY CARD WILL NOT BE ABLE TO USE IT FOR TRAVELLING ABROAD OR TO APPLY FOR A TRAVEL DOCUMENT.
"HOWEVER, THOSE WHO HAVE MISSED THEIR SPECIFIED CARD REPLACEMENT PERIODS DUE TO THEIR ABSENCE FROM HONG KONG OR ANY OTHE? REASONS SHOULD IMMEDIATELY APPROACH ANY ONE OF THE EIGHT NEW IDENTITY CARD ISSUE OFFICES," HE ADDED.
THESE CASES WILL BE LOOKED INTO THOROUGHLY AND DEALT WITH ON THEIR INDIVIDUAL MERITS.
THE SPOKESMAN REITERATED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
-------o---------
/21 .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1989
- 21
AMENDED TIMES FOR FIRING PRACTICE ******
AMENDED TIMES FOR FIRING PRACTICE AT THE HA TSUEN-CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON TWO DAYS THIS MONTH WERE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE PRACTICE ON NOVEMBER 24 WILL LAST FROM 8.30 AM TO 11.59 PM, AND ON NOVEMBER 30 IT WILL LAST FROM 8.30 AM TO 5 PM.
THE PUBLIC IS WARNED NOT TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN RED FLAGS ARE FLYING.
-------Q----------
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN WONG TAI SIN
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT THE FOLLOWING TEMPORARY TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN WONG TAI SIN ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 5) IN CONNECTION WITH THE "KOWLOON WALK FOR MILLIONS 1989-90".
TSZ WAN SHAN ROAD SECTION BETWEEN WAN WAH STREET AND SHA TIN' PASS ROAD WILL BE CLOSED FROM 7.30 AM TO NOON. FRANCHISED BUSES AND PUBLIC LIGHT BUS (SCHEDULED) SERVICE ROUTE NOS. 18 AND 19 WILL BE EXEMPTED.
AT THE SAME TIME, SHA TIN PASS ROAD SECTION BETWEEN TSZ WAN SHAN ROAD AND FEI NGO SHAN ROAD WILL BE CLOSED AND PLB (SCHEDULED) SERVICE ROUTE NO. 18 WILL BE EXEMPTED, WHILE WAN WAH STREET SECTION BETWEEN WAI WAH STREET AND TSZ WAN SHAN ROAD WILL ALSO BF, CLOSED.
NGAU CHI WAN STREET, FEI NGO SHAN ROAD SECTION BETWEEN CUSTOMS PASS AND JAT’S INCLINE, AND JAT’S INCLINE SECTION BETWEEN FEI NGO SHAN ROAD AND CLEAR WATER BAY ROAD WILL BE CLOSED FROM 7.30 AM TO 3 PM, AND PLB (SCHEDULED) SERVICE ROUTE NO. 16 WILL BE EXEMPTED.
FROM 7.30 AM TO NOON, THE EXISTING TERMINUS OF PLB (SCHEDULED) SERVICE ROUTE NO. 18 ON TSZ WAN SHAN ROAD OUTSIDE SHA TIN PASS ESTATE WILL BE RELOCATED TO A POINT ON THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF TSZ WAN SHAN ROAD.
THIS TEMPORARY TERMINUS IS ABOUT 15 METRES WEST OF THE EXISTING TERMINUS. THE EXISTING TERMINUS OF PLB (SCHEDULED) SERVICE ROUTE NO. 19 ON TSZ WAN SHAN ROAD OUTSIDE SHA TIN PASS ESTATE WILL BE RELOCATED TO A POINT ABOUT 150 METRES TO THE EAST.
/PLB (SCHEDULED) ........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
22 -
PLB (SCHEDULED) SERVICE ROUTE NOS. 20 AND 37M, WILL BE DIVERTED VIA SHEUNG FUNG STREET, WAN WAH STREET, WAI WAH STREET AND TSZ WAN SHAN ROAD INSTEAD OF SHEUNG FUNG STREET, WAN WAH STREET AND TSZ WAN SHAN ROAD WHEN HEADING TOWARDS TSZ WAN SHAN.
FROM 7.30 AM TO 3 PM, THE EXISTING TERMINUS OF PLB (SCHEDULED) SERVICE ROUTE NO. 16 IN NGAU CHI WAN STREET WILL BE RELOCATED TO JAT'S INCLINE SECTION BETWEEN NGAU CHI WAN STREET AND CLEAR WATER BAY ROAD.
THE SERVICE WILL BE DIVERTED VIA CLEAR WATER BAY ROAD AND JAT’S INCLINE INSTEAD OF CLEAR WATER BAY ROAD, FUNG SHING STREET AND NGAU CHI WAN STREET WHEN HEADING TOWARDS JAT’S INCLINE.
--------o ---------
NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT FOR GARDEN ROAD FLYOVER
*»»*»*
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT TRAFFIC ON THE LEFT-HAND TRAFFIC LANE ON GARDEN ROAD FLYOVER IS NOW ALSO PROVIDING ACCESS TO QUEENSWAY.
THIS IS PART OF A TRAFFIC IMPROVEMENT SCHEME TO ALLEVIATE THE CONGESTION AT THE APPROACH TO THE GARDEN ROAD FLYOVER.
THE GARDEN ROAD FLYOVER CONSISTS OF TWO LANES WITH THE RIGHT ONE LEADING ONTO QUEENSWAY WHILE THE LEFT ONE IS ORIGINALLY CONFINED TO LEFT-TURN TRAFFIC HEADING FOR COTTON TREE DRIVE NORTHBOUND.
UPON THE WIDENING OF THE DOWN RAMP OF THE GARDEN ROAD FLYOVER AND THE ADJOINING CARRIAGEWAY, BOTH LANES ON THE FLYOVER ARE NOW OPEN TO EASTBOUND TRAFFIC LEADING ONTO QUEENSWAY.
-------o ---------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
JAPANESE FOREIGN MINISTER CALLS ON GOVERNOR .................. 1
TV SPECIAL ON ROYAL VISIT .................................... 2
AFTER SCHOOL CASE TO BE INTRODUCED NEXT JANUARY............... 2
WONG TAI SIN'S FIRST DAY CARE CENTRE FOR ELDERLY.............. 4
MALAYSIAN OFFICIALS LEARN ABOUT LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL....... 4
IMPROVEMENTS TO SOUTHERN LIVING ENVIRONMENT IN PIPELINE....... 5
RS OUTLINES MASSIVE DEVELOPMENTS IN WONG TAI SIN ............. 6
WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES .................... 8
TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL STARTS TODAY ....................... 8
100 CHILDREN HONOURED ........................................ 9
EXHIBITION ON CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT ................... 10
ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL IN KWUN TONG ............................ 11
ANCIENT POTS ON SHOW IN TUEN MUN ............................ 12
FOOTBALLERS TO 'KICK OFF' SPORTS FESTIVAL IN KWAI TSING ...... 12
DISTRICT LANDMARK FOR YAU TSIM................................ 1?
PEDESTRAIN ROAD SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAMME ON HK ISLAND ...... 14
BREEDING STOCK PURCHASED FOR POLICE DOG UNIT ................. 14
BACKDROP OF TUNG CHUNG EORT FOR BEATING RETREAT SHOWS......... 16
'SING AND CLEAN' SONG CONTEST FOR FILIPINOS .................. 17
CALL TO OBSERVE CHILD EMPLOYMENT REGULATIONS ................. 18
IN-SERVICE TRAINING COURSE FOR KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS ......... 19
MORE OPIN SPACE FACILITIES FOR TUEN MUN ...................... 20
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN NEW TERRITORIES ...................... 20
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF CAPE COLLINSON RD SECTION ............... 21
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF HIP WO LANE.............................. 22
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN TO KWA WAN ...........................
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS' IN KOWLOON TONG ........................ 2J
SPEED LIMIT ON ISLAND EASTERN CORRIDOR........................ 2?
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 4, 1989
1
JAPANESE FOREIGN MINISTER CALLS ON GOVERNOR * * t » »
THE JAPANESE FOREIGN MINISTER, DR TARO NAKAYAMA. HAS HAD TALKS WITH THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AND SENIOR GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS ON A RANGE OF ISSUES.
DURING THE TALK THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING, DR NAKAYAMA REITERATED JAPAN'S CONFIDENCE IN HONG KONG AND SUPPORT FOR THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION. HE COMMENTED THAT THE JAPANESE PRIVATE SECTOR WAS ALSO CONFIDENT ABOUT HONG KONG’S FUTURE, AS EVIDENCED BY THEIR CONTINUING HIGH LEVEL OF INVESTMENT IN THE TERRITORY.
ON THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE ISSUE, HE EXPRESSED SYMPATHY FOR THE BURDEN PLACED UPON HONG KONG BY THE ARRIVALS FROM VIETNAM, AND RECONFIRMED THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT'S BELIEF IN THE IMPORTANCE OF THE FULL AND BALANCED IMPLEMENTATION OF ALL ASPECTS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF ACTION ADOPTED IN GENEVA IN JUNE THIS YEAR.
DR NAKAYAMA SAID JAPAN WOULD CONTINUE TO GIVE A HIGH PRIORITY TO ASSISTING THE UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR REFUGEES WITH THE INDO-CHINESE REFUGEE PROBLEM. PARTICULARLY IN HONG KONG.
THE FOREIGN MINISTER ALSO PLEDGED JAPAN’S CONTINUAL SUPPORT FOR THE PARTICIPATION OF HONG KONG IN THE FORUM FOR ASIA- PACIFIC ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION.
THE GOVERNOR WELCOMED WITH APPRECIATION THE CONTINUING HIGH LEVEL OF JAPANESE BUSINESS INTEREST IN HONG KONG.
HE SAID THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT WILL BE CONSIDERING MEASURES TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR JAPANESE TO COME AND WORK IN HONG KONG, INCLUDING SUBSTANTIALLY REDUCING THE TIME TAKEN TO PROCESS EMPLOYMENT VISAS.
SIR DAVID OUTLINED HONG KONG’S PLANS FOR A NEW AIRPORT AND PORT DEVELOPMENT.
HE ALSO THANKED THE FOREIGN MINISTER FOR THE MAJOR FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION WHICH THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT WERE MAKING TOWARDS UNHCR FOR THE VIETNAMESE PROBLEM IN HONG KONG.
HE WELCOMED THE AGREEMENT SOON TO BE SIGNED, BY WHICH THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT WILL EXTEND TO THE GOVERNMENT OF HONG KONG A GRANT-IN-AID TO ENABLE THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG TO PURCHASE BOOKS AND AUDIO-VISUAL EQUIPMENT FOR ITS JAPANESE PROGRAMME.
THE JAPANESE FOREIGN MINISTER LEAVES HONG KONG AFTER CONCLUDING A TWO-DAY VISIT DURING WHICH HE ALSO ARGYLE STREET VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE DETENTION CENTRE.
LATER TODAY
VISITED THE
- - 0 --------
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 4. 1989
- 2 -
TV SPECIAL ON ROYAL VISIT ♦ ♦ * ♦
A TELEVISION SPECIAL. “HONG KONG GREETS THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES”. PRODUCED BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG, WILL BE BROADCAST BY BOTH COMMERCIAL NETWORKS ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 7).
THE 15-MINUTE SPECIAL WILL COVER THE ARRIVAL OF THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES AT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. THEIR TRIP ACROSS THE HARBOUR ON BOARD THE LADY MAURINE. AND THEIR OFFICIAL WELCOME AT EDINBURGH PLACE.
THE PROGRAMME WILL BE SHOWN ON ATV1S HOME CHANNEL AT 9.15 PM. ON ATV’S WORLD CHANNEL AT 9.55 PM AND ON TVB JADE AT 11.45 PM.
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AFTER SCHOOL CARE TO BE INTRODUCED NEXT JANUARY * ♦ ♦ * ♦
A PILOT SCHEME FOR AN AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROGRAMME WILL BE INTRODUCED IN JANUARY NEXT YEAR TO PROVIDE HALF-DAY CARE TO PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN.
A SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT THE TARGET GROUP FOR THIS SERVICE WOULD BE FAMILIES WITH SOCIAL AND FINANCIAL NEEDS WHICH ARE VULNERABLE AND IN LACK OF ADEQUATE RESOURCES TO BUY THE SERVICE.
’’THIS WAS DECIDED AFTER A SERIES OF MEETINGS BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT AND THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE,” HE SAID.
"AS INFORMATION AND STATISTICS ON THE ACTUAL DEMAND FROM THESE FAMILIES ARE NOT AVAILABLE, A PILOT SCHEME WILL BE CONDUCTED TO TEST THE DEMAND AND TO SET UP A MORE SYSTEMATIC AND STANDARDISED OPERATIONAL MODEL.” HE SAID.
UNDER THE S3 MILLION PILOT SCHEME. AFTER SCHOOL CARE WILL BE PROVIDED AT A SELECTED CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRE IN ONE OF THE DISTRICTS OF EACH SWD ADMINISTRATIVE REGION WITH THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF KNOWN CASES OF SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES AND OF CHILDREN LIVING IN FOUR-PERSON HOUSEHOLDS WITH A MONTHLY INCOME AT OR BELOW THE LEVEL OF $4,400.
IT WAS ACCEPTED THAT NOT ALL THESE FAMILIES REQUIRE THE SERVICE AS SOME MAY HAVE RELATIVES OR OTHER ARRANGEMENTS TO LOOK AFTER THE CHILDREN. AS A RESULT, THE FOLLOWING DISTRICTS HAVE BEEN SELECTED:
/HONG KONG
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
- 3
HONG KONG ISLAND -- EASTERN
EAST KOWLOON — KWUN TONG
WEST KOWLOON — SHAM SHUI PO
NEW TERRITORIES EAST — SHA TIN
NEW TERRITORIES WEST — TSUEN WAN/KWAI TSING
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT CHILDREN BETWEEN SIX AND 12 YEARS OLD FROM THE FOLLOWING FAMILY BACKGROUND ARE CLASSIFIED AS HAVING SOCIAL NEEDS:
» PARENTS WITH ILL HEALTH, DISABILITY, LONG TERM
HOSPITALISATION;
* SINGLE WORKING PARENTS;
» PARENTS SERVING PRISON SENTENCES;
» PARENTS WITH DRUG ABUSE PROBLEMS;
» NEW IMMIGRANTS WITH ADJUSTMENT PROBLEMS;
* CHILDREN BEING VICTIMS OF REPORTED CHILD ABUSE CASES.
AS TO FINANCIAL NEEDS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THEY ARE DEFINED ACCORDING TO THE EXISTING SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEME.
HE ADDED THAT EACH CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRE WOULD HAVE THE CAPACITY OF 30 CHILDREN FOR EACH HALF-DAY SESSION, BENEFITTING A TOTAL OF 60 CHILDREN A DAY.
"IT WILL BE OPERATED FIVE TO SIX DAYS PER WEEK, WITH FOUR TO FIVE HOURS PER SESSION.
"NORMALLY THE MORNING SESSION WILL BE FROM 8 AM TO 1 PM AND THE AFTERNOON SESSION FROM 1 PM TO 6 PM," HE CONTINUED.
THE PROGRAMME FOR EACH HALF-DAY SESSION WILL INCLUDE HOME WORK GUIDANCE, MEAL AND PLAY, GROUP ACTIVITIES, INDIVIDUAL COUNSELLING AND OTHER ACTIVITIES.
"THE EXPERIMENT WILL BE TRIED OUT FOR 20 MONTHS FROM NEXT JANUARY TO AUGUST 1991 TO TIE IN WITH THE SCHOOL TERMS.
"A REVIEW OF THE EXPERIMENT WILL BE CONDUCTED AFTER 12 MONTHS OF OPERATION." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 4, 1989
WONG TAI SIN’S FIRST DAY CARE CENTRE FOR ELDERLY
*****
SERVICES PROVIDED BY DAY CARE CENTRES ENABLE ELDERLY PEOPLE TO REMAIN SOCIALLY’ ACTIVE, AND AT THE SAME TIME RELIEVE THEIR FAMILIES OF THE NEED TO LOOK AFTER THEM DURING THE DAY. THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR ALFRED CHUI, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE SALVATION ARMY’S CHUK YUEN DAY CARE CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY IN WONG TAI SIN, MR CHUI SAID THE CENTRES AIMED AT PROVIDING ELDERLY PEOPLE IN DECLINING HEALTH WITH DAY CARE, NURSING SERVICE AS WELL AS RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES.
THE SERVICES PROVIDED RANGED FROM THE SERVING OF MEALS TO LAUNDRY, COUNSELLING, MEDICAL CHECKS AND GROUP ACTIVITIES.
NOTING THAT ELDERLY PEOPLE REPRESENTED 17.8 PER CENT OR 60,000 OF THE TOTAL PUBLIC HOUSING POPULATION IN WONG TAI SIN, MR CHUI SAID THE LOCAL DEMAND FOR ELDERLY SERVICES WAS VERY HIGH.
"THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT HAS CONTINUED TO IMPROVE AND STRENGTHEN THE SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY IN WONG TAI SIN.
"AND THE CHUK YUEN DAY CARE CENTRE IS THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN THE DISTRICT," HE SAID.
MR CHUI COMMENDED THE SALVATION ARMY FOR PROVIDING A WIDE RANGE OF SOCIAL SERVICES IN HONG KONG SINCE 1930.
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MALAYSIAN OFFICIALS LEARN ABOUT LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL *******
THREE GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS FROM THE STATE OF SELANGOR, MALAYSIA RECENTLY VISITED THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) TO LEARN ABOUT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL PROGRAMME IN HONG KONG.
DURING THEIR THREE-DAY VISIT, THE TRIO ALSO STUDIED THE TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF VARIOUS LIVESTOCK WASTE TREATMENT METHODS.
THE DELEGATION WAS RECEIVED AND BRIEFED ON THE PROGRAMME BY THE DEPARTMENT’S ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, MR JOHN BOXALL, AND PRINCIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICER, DR DANIEL LAU.
DURING THE VISIT, THE DELEGATION SAW FOR THEMSELVES THE SEVERE LIVESTOCK WASTE POLLUTION PROBLEMS IN YUEN LONG, THE LIVESTOCK WASTE COLLECTION SERVICES OFFERED BY EPD, AND THE OPERATION OF THE NGAU TAM MEI MANURE COMPOSTING PLANT.
/THEY ALSO
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
- 5 -
THEY ALSO VISITED THE DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS BEING CONDUCTED IN PRIVATE FARMS AND THE GOVERNMENT'S DEMONSTRATION FARM IN TA KWU LING •
THE DELEGATION WAS IMPRESSED BY THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT'S POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS IMPLEMENTING THE LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL PROGRAMME AS WELL AS THE CONSIDERABLE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS, IN PARTICULAR TO THE WATERCOURSES, BROUGHT ABOUT BY THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONTROL PROGRAMME IN TOLO HARBOUR, MUI WO AND ANGLERS’ BEACH.
THE DELEGATION SHOWED PARTICULAR INTEREST IN THE PIG-ON-LITTER METHOD AND THOUGHT MORE WORK IN THIS DIRECTION SHOULD BE CARRIED OUT TO ASCERTAIN ITS APPLICATION IN MALAYSIA.
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IMPROVEMENTS TO SOUTHERN LIVING ENVIRONMENT IN PIPELINE * * » » »
THE GOVERNMENT HAS EMBARKED ON A NUMBER OF MAJOR PROJECTS AS PART OF A CONTINUOUS EFFORT TO IMPROVE THE LIVING ENVIRONMENT IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT. THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR DAVID LAN, SAID THIS (SATURDAY) EVENING.
HE WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL HELD AT THE WONG CHUK HANG SOCCER PITCH.
ON HOUSING, MR LAN SAID THAT A NEW PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE WILL BE BUILT ON THE KELLETT BAY RECLAMATION NEAR WAH FU.
THE DEVELOPMENT, TO BE KNOWN AS THE WAH KWAI ESTATE, WILL COMPRISE PUBLIC RENTAL AND HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME BLOCKS FOR SOME 20.000 PEOPLE IN 1991.
ON AP LEI CHAU, THE RECLAMATION WORK AT THE NORTH OF THE ISLAND WILL BE COMPLETED IN TWO STAGES IN EARLY 1990 AND MID-1991. IT WILL PROVIDE 6.5 HECTARES OF LAND FOR COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES, GOVERNMENT USE, PUBLIC LANDING POINTS, PARKING SPACES FOR GOODS VEHICLES, OPEN SPACE AND ROADS.
IN MA HANG, SQUATTER HUTS AND PIG-REARING FARMS WILL BE CLEARED TO MAKE WAY FOR A LOW-RISE PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE FOR 8,000 PEOPLE. THE DESIGN OF THE PROJECT WILL ENABLE THE BLOCKS TO BLEND IN WELL WITH THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT.
A VILLAGE SQUARE CONTAINING SMALL SHOPS, CAFES, RESTAURANTS, A MARKET AND CRAFT WORKSHOPS WILL BE BUILT. MURRAY HOUSE, A HISTORIC BUILDING ONCE STOOD IN CENTRAL, WILL BE REBUILT IN THE AREA.
SITES FOR A PRIMARY SCHOOL AND A COMMUNITY CENTRE HAVE ALSO BEEN RESERVED FOR THE REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME WHICH HAS THE SUPPORT OF THE DISTRICT BOARD AND LOCAL ORGANISATIONS.
/ON GOVERNMENT
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER A, 1989
6
ON GOVERNMENT EFFORTS TO TACKLE WATER POLLUTION IN THE DISTRICT. MR LAN SAID BOTH SHORT AND LONG TERM MEASURES WERE BEING TAKEN TO IMPROVE WATER QUALITY AT THE POPULAR BEACHES.
SHORT TERM MEASURES INCLUDE INTERCEPTION AND DIVERSION OF POLLUTING DRAINS AWAY FROM MAIN SWIMMING AREAS. REPAIR TO SEWAGE OUTFALL PIPES IN REPULSE BAY. CLEARANCE OF SQUATTERS ON THE BEACH HINTERLAND AND BANNING OF LIVESTOCK-KEEPING.
THE LONG-TERM MEASURE TAKE THE FORM OF A CONSULTANCY STUDY TO FORMULATE A MASTER SEWERAGE PLAN WHICH WILL PROVIDE PROPER SEWAGE DISPOSAL FACILITIES FOR THE COASTAL AREAS FROM BIG WAVE BAY TO SHOUSON HILL.
TURNING TO THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL. MR LAN PRAISED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MRS SO CHAU YIM-PING. AND THE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, WHO IS ALSO CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE OPENING CEREMONY, MR HUI YUNG-CHUNG. FOR THE EFFORTS THEY HAD MADE IN ORGANISING THE EVENTS.
HE DESCRIBED THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL AS A BIG BOOST TO COMMUNITY BUILDING EFFORTS IN THE DISTRICT.
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RS OUTLINES MASSIVE DEVELOPMENTS IN WONG TAI SIN
******
SEVERAL MAJOR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS WILL BE COMPLETED IN THE DIAMOND HILL AND TAI HOM AREAS IN WONG TAI SIN IN THE COMING YEARS. THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON. MR DAVID LAN. SAID THIS (SATURDAY) EVENING.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL AT THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL. MR LAN SAID THE PROJECTS INCLUDED THE $2 BILLION TATE'S CAIRN TUNNEL. WHICH WAS SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION IN MID-1991 TO PROVIDE A FURTHER MUCH NEEDED LINK BETWEEN KOWLOON AND SHA TIN.
HE SAID THE TUNNEL. MEASURING 3.9 KILOMETRES. WOULD BE THE LONGEST ROAD TUNNEL IN HONG KONG AND WOULD RELIEVE TRAFFIC CONGESTION IN THE LION ROCK TUNNEL.
A NUMBER OF GOVERNMENT ROAD PROJECTS WOULD ALSO BE COMPLETED AT THE SAME TIME TO CATER FOR THE TRAFFIC TO BE GENERATED BY THE TUNNEL. HE ADDED.
"THE TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL WILL THUS FORM PART OF A NEW TRUNK ROUTE LINKING QUARRY BAY ON HONG KONG ISLAND WITH MA ON SHAN IN SHA TIN VIA THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING AND THE KWUN TONG BYPASS.
"WHEN ALL THESE PROJECTS ARE COMPLETED. THE TRAVELLING TIME FROM QUARRY BAY ON THE ISLAND TO WONG TAI SIN AND SHA TIN WILL BE SUBSTANTIALLY REDUCED." HE SAID.
/MR LAN ......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
7
MR LAN POINTED OUT THAT APART FROM THE TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL. THERE WOULD BE OTHER MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS IN THE NEARBY AREAS.
TO THE WEST OF THE TUNNEL APPROACH ROAD AND NORTH OF LUNG CHEUNG ROAD WOULD BE A LARGE RESIDENTIAL PROJECT. TO BE COMPLETED WITH CARPARKING AND COMMERCIAL FACILITIES. IT WAS SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION IN 1991-92 AND WOULD ACCOMMODATE 8.500 PEOPLE.
THERE WERE ALSO PLANS FOR SCHOOLS. OPEN SPACE. A PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE AND A TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE IN THE AREA.
FURTHER NORTH ALONG THE HILL SLOPE. A LARGE URBAN PARK OF AN AREA OF 6.2 HECTARES. COMMANDING A PANORAMIC VIEW OVER CENTRAL KOWLOON. WOULD BE BUILT IN MID-1992.
’’THERE IS ALSO A PLAN FOR BUILDING A DISTRICT HOSPITAL WITH 950 BEDS ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE SLOPE." HE ADDED.
MEANWHILE. MARK I AND II PUBLIC HOUSING BLOCKS IN THE DISTRICT WERE BEING REDEVELOPED TO MAKE WAY FOR NEW BLOCKS WITH MODERN FACILITIES AND A NICE ENVIRONMENT.
IT WAS EXPECTED THAT SOME 100.000 PEOPLE, MANY OF THEM FORMER MARK I AND II BLOCK RESIDENTS. WOULD BE RETURNING TO THE DISTRICT.
MR LAN SAID THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL PROVIDED RESIDENTS IN THE DISTRICT WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO RELAX AND ENJOY THEMSELVES.
)
HE URGED RESIDENTS TO TAKE PART IN THE VARIOUS CULTURAL. RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES.
MR LAN THANKED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MR ALBERT LI SZE-RAY. AND MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE FOR THEIR EFFORTS OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS IN ORGANISING A SERIES OF ACTIVITIES FOR RESIDENTS.
"I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT RESIDENTS IN WONG TAI SIN GREATLY APPRECIATE THE GOOD WORK OF THE COMMITTEE." HE ADDED.
I
ALSO SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY. MR LI SAID THE AIM OF THE FESTIVAL WAS TO FOSTER A SENSE OF BELONGING AMONG DISTRICT RESIDENTS AND AT THE SAME TIME PROVIDE ENTERTAINMENT FOR THEM.
THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL RUN UNTIL NOVEMBER 26. PROVIDING A WIDE RANGE OF CULTURAL. RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES.
THE OPENING CEREMONY WAS FOLLOWED BY A VARIETY SHOW FEATURING A CONCERT BY SINGERS JOHNNY YIP AND MAK KIT-MAN. AS WELL AS PERFORMANCES BY THE WONG TAI SIN CHILDREN’S CHOIR AND THE MIRANDA CHIN DANCING GROUP.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS AT THE CEREMONY INCLUDED THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. DR MICHAEL LEE: DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BRIAN LAU: VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL. MR STEPHEN LAU: AND MISS ASIA PACIFIC. MISS YUNG HUNG.
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/8
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
8
WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES ♦ * ♦ ♦ *
A SERIES OF CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES WILL BE HELD IN WONG TAI SIN TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AS PART OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
ADMISSION TO THESE ACTIVITIES IS FREE.
MORE THAN 200 DISABLED PEOPLE WILL TAKE PART IN A TELEMATCH TO BE HELD AT THE MINIATURE FOOTBALL PITCH IN MORSE PARK BETWEEN 9 AM AND NOON.
AN EXHIBITION OF CHINESE PAINTINGS AND CALLIGRAPHY WILL BE HELD AT THE FUNG MING HALL OF WONG TAI SIN TEMPLE BEGINNING AT 2 PM.
WINNING ENTRIES IN THE FESTIVAL’S CHINESE CALLIGRAPHY COMPETITION WILL ALSO BE DISPLAYED. THE EXHIBITION WILL RUN UNTIL TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 7).
A NUMBER OF ACTIVITIES WILL BE HELD AT CHOI HUNG ESTATE. AN OPENING CEREMONY WILL HELD AT 1 PM AT THE PODIUM OF CHOI HUNG ESTATE CARPARK.
OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY WILL BE THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. DR MICHAEL LEE; DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BRIAN LAU; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR ALBERT LI.
A CHILDREN’S GAMES DAY WITH 500 YOUNGSTERS TAKING PART WILL BE HELD AFTER THE CEREMONY WHILE A VARIETY SHOW WITH PERFORMANCES BY POPULAR SINGERS WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM AT THE ST BENEDICT’S SECONDARY SCHOOL.
THE ACTIVITIES ARE JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE CHOI HUNG AREA COMMITTEE, THE AREA’S MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES, THE URBAN COUNCIL, THE CHOI HUNG ESTATE OFFICE AND THE WONG TAI S1N DISTRICT OFFICE.
TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL STARTS TODAY ♦ * * t ♦
THE 11 TH TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL OFFERING OVER 40 EVENTS WAS LAUNCHED WITH A GRAND OPENING AND A MARATHON SWIMMING COMPETITION THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING.
THE 1,500-METRE SWIM, WITH THE STARTING POINT AT APPROACH BEACH AND FINISHING AT LIDO BEACH, WAS A NEW EVENT THIS YEAR.
A TOTAL OF 98 SWIMMERS TOOK PART IN TODAY'S RACE. THEY INCLUDED 61 MEN AND 37 WOMEN. WITH THE YOUNGEST BEING EIGHT YEARS OLD AND THE OLDEST 68.
/THE TSUEN
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER <t, 1989
- 9 -
THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR WILLIAM SHIU, OFFICIATED AT THE STARTING CEREMONY AND THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR ADOLF HSU, PRESENTED PRIZES TO WINNERS AT LIDO BEACH.
THE CHAMPION IN THE MEN’S GROUP WAS MR HUI KWOK-CHI WHILE MISS CHENG OI-YAN WON THE FIRST PRIZE IN THE WOMEN’S SECTION.
OTHER EVENTS OF THE FESTIVAL IN THE COMING WEEK INCLUDE THE TSUEN WAN KART PRIX TO BE HELD AT THE SHA TSUI ROAD SPORTS GROUND TOMORROW (SUNDAY), AND BASKETBALL, BADMINTON, TABLE TENNIS, TENNIS AND AEROBIC DANCE COMPETITIONS.
COPIES OF THE FESTIVAL PROGRAMME ARE AVAILABLE AT THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICES CENTRES OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE.
THE MONTH-LONG SPORTS FESTIVAL IS ORGANISED BY THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD, DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE FEDERATION OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT SPORTS AND RECREATION ASSOCIATIONS.
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100 CHILDREN HONOURED
» * * t «
ONE HUNDRED CENTRAL AND WESTERN PRIMARY PUPILS WERE AWARDED CERTIFICATES OF MERIT AT THE DISTRICT'S GOOD CHILDREN AWARD SCHEME PRESENTATION CEREMONY HELD AT ST PAUL’S COLLEGE THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING.
THE PUPILS HAD BEEN NOMINATED BY THEIR SCHOOLS FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES IN ACADEMIC WORK. CONDUCT AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES DURING THE PAST YEAR.
SPEAKING AT THE PRESENTATION, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, MR WU CHOR-NAM, TOLD THE RECIPIENTS TO KEEP UP THEIR GOOD EFFORTS.
"I HOPE YOU WILL SET A VERY GOOD EXAMPLE FOR OTHER YOUNGSTERS," MR WU SAID.
THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR STEPHEN FISHER. AND A DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER. MR PETER LEE. PRESENTED CERTIFICATES TO THE OUTSTANDING PUPILS. WHO WERE ALSO TREATED TO A ONE-DAY TOUR OF THE OCEAN PARK AFTER THE CEREMONY.
AS ONE OF THE 41 ACTIVITIES OF THE THIRD DISTRICT FESTIVAL NOW IN FULL SWING. THE AWARD SCHEME HAS BEEN JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE. THE DISTRICT BOARD, THE DISTRICT OFFICE. THE DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE AND THE DISTRICT COUNCIL OF SCHOOL HEADS, WITH SUPPORT BY MORE THAN 20 PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT.
/MEANWHILE, EVENTS .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
10
MEANWHILE, EVENTS FOR THE SECOND WEEK OF THE FESTIVAL ARE AS FOLLOWS:
DATE/TIME EVENT VENUE
NOVEMBER 8 5 (SUNDAY) PM CHIU CHOW OPERA SHOW CITY HALL CONCERT HALL
NOVEMBER 2. 5 (SUNDAY) 30 PM SAI YING PUN CARNIVAL KING GEORGE V MEMORIAL PARK
NOVEMBER 11 5 (SUNDAY) AM - 5 PM VEGETARIAN MEAL FOR THE ELDERLY WAH PO MANSION, NEW KENNEDY TOWN PRAYA
NOVEMBER 5-19 DISTRICT FESTIVAL EXHIBITION SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE EXHIBITION HALL
NOVEMBER 8 6 (MONDAY) PM YOUTH ARTS PARADE SINGING NITE SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE THEATRE
NOVEMBER 8 8 (WEDNESDAY) PM YOUTH ARTS PARADE DANCING NITE SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE THEATRE
NOVEMBER 8 AND 15 QUIZ CONTEST CARITAS YOUTH CENTRE, CAINE ROAD
NOVEMBER 2 10 (FRIDAY) PM ARTS SHOW BY THE ELDERLY SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE THEATRE
-----0 -----
EXHIBITION ON CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT
*****
A LARGE SCALE EXHIBITION ORGANISED UNDER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL BE OFFICIALLY OPENED AT THE SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE EXHIBITION HALL TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
AMONG THE OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL BE THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR LI YUET-TING; CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR LIU LIT-FOR; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR AMBROSE LAU; DISTRICT OFFICER, MR STEPHEN FISHER; AND URBAN COUNCILLOR 'MR CHOW WAI-KEUNG.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPEN DAILY FROM 11 AM TO 8.30 PM, UNTIL NOVEMBER 19.
IT WILL FEATURE DISPLAYS ON THE DISTRICT'S HISTORY, POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT, SOCIAL FACILITIES, TRADES, STREETS AND UNIQUE BUILDINGS.
/THE EXHIBITS
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
11
THE EXHIBITS ARE PRODUCED BY 10 LOCAL SCHOOLS IN A DISTRICT-WIDE COMPETITION.
ALL ARE WELCOME TO VISIT THE EXHIBITION. VISITORS WILL ALSO BE ABLE TO WIN ATTRACTIVE SOUVENIRS ON CORRECTLY ANSWERING QUESTIONS ABOUT THE DISTRICT.
AS ONE OF THE 40-ODD ACTIVITIES OF THE CURRENT DISTRICT FESTIVAL, THE INDOOR FUNCTION IS INTENDED TO ENHANCE KNOWLEDGE ON THE DISTRICT AMONG RESIDENTS.
IT HAS BEEN JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, THE DISTRICT BOARD. THE DISTRICT OFFICE, THE DISTRICT COUNCIL OF SCHOOL HEADS AND THE URBAN COUNCIL.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT EXHIBITION OPENING CEREMONY WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE EXHIBITION HALL, SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, QUEEN'S ROAD CENTRAL.
-----0-----
ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL IN KWUN TONG
*****
A ROAD SAFETY CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD IN KWUN TONG TOMORROW (SUNDAY) TO MARK THE CLOSING OF THE DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN.
JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE 1989 KWUN TONG DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN ORGANISING COMMITTEE AND THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE, THE CARNIVAL WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM AT THE HONG NING ROAD PLAYGROUND.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR CHRIS WAN; KWUN TONG DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR A.W. HIGGINBOTTOM; SAU MAU PING DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR A.J. FERRIGE; SENIOR STAFF OFFICER OF TRAFFIC POLICE (KOWLOON), MR I.P. PEGGS; KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM HANG-FAI; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR SETO CHAK.
A VARIETY SHOW AND ACTIVITIES HIGHLIGHTING THE IMPORTANCE OF OBSERVING ROAD SAFETY REGULATIONS WILL FOLLOW.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE 1989 KWUN TONG DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN CARNIVAL TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE HONG NING ROAD PLAYGROUND, BEGINNING AT 2 PM.
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/12........
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 4. 1989
- 12 -
ANCIENT POTS ON SHOW IN TUEN MUN » * *
HONG KONG’S FIRST ANCIENT POTS EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD IN THE EXHIBITION GALLERY OF TUEN MUN TOWN HALL. STARTING FROM TOMORROW (SUNDAY I.
THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR ADOLF HSU, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE EXHIBITION WHICH IS ORGANISED AS PART OF THIS YEAR’S TUEN MUN FESTIVAL.
SELECTED FROM THE TAOIST CHING CHUNG MONASTERY'S COLLECTION OF ANCIENT POTS. THE 300 EXHIBITS REPRESENT A VARIETY OF STYLES AS WELL AS EXQUISITE CRAFTSMANSHIP. SOME OF THEM CAN BE DATED BACK TO THE SUNG DYNASTY.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPEN DAILY FROM 9 AM TO 8 PM, UNTIL NOVEMBER 12.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE ANCIENT POTS EXHIBITION TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT 2.30 PM IN THE EXHIBITION GALLERY OF TUEN MUN TOWN HALL.
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FOOTBALLERS TO 'KICK OFF' SPORTS FESTIVAL IN KWAI TSING
» * » * »
A SOCCER TOURNAMENT BETWEEN WOMEN TEAMS FROM CHINA, TAIWAN AND HONG KONG WILL KICK OFF THE THIRD KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL WHICH RUNS FROM NOVEMBER 11 TO DECEMBER 8 THIS YEAR.
THE FESTIVAL, ORGANISED BY THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD, THE DISTRICT SPORTS ASSOCIATION, THE REGIONAL COUNCIL AND THE DISTRICT OFFICE, IS AIMED AT PROMOTING RESIDENTS' INTEREST AND PARTICIPATION IN SPORTS ACTIVITIES.
THE BUDGET FOR THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL IS 5650,000, OF WHICH $220,000 HAS BEEN ALLOCATED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD, $320,000 BY THE REGIONAL COUNCIL AND THE REMAINDER FROM LOCAL DONATIONS.
THE KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE WILL ANNOUNCE DETAILS OF THE OPENING CEREMONY AND THE PROGRAMME AT A PRESS CONFERENCE ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6).
/CHAIRING THE
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
CHAIRING THE PRESS CONFERENCE WILL BE COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN MR TSUI HON-SHEUNG, KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICER MR PAUL TANG, AND DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN MR LEE WING-TAT.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL PRESS CONFERENCE WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 4 PM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6) IN THE KWAI HING HSIN KUANG RESTAURANT (ADJACENT TO KWAI HING MTR STATION), KWAI CHUNG.
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DISTRICT LANDMARK FOR YAU TSIM
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THE ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE OF THE YAU TSIM DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE PUTTING UP OF A DISTRICT LANDMARK AT THE JUNCTION OF FERRY STREET WITH KANSU STREET AT ITS MEETING ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6).
FLOWERS AND TURF WILL BE PLANTED AROUND THE CONCRETE LANDMARK TO BEAUTIFY THE ENVIRONMENT AND TO PROMOTE DISTRICT IDENTITY.
OTHER AGENDA ITEMS INCLUDE ALLOCATING 968.350 TO BEAUTIFY THE AREA UNDER THE GASCOIGNE ROAD FLYOVER AND THE REMOVAL Oi 51 PLANTERS FROM THE PAVEMENT BETWEEN FERRY STREET AND TAK CHEONG STREET.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE YAU TSIM DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6) IN THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM. SECOND FLOOR. 490 NATHAN ROAD.
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
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PEDESTRIAN ROAD SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAMME ON HK ISLAND *****
MOST OF THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS CAUSING INJURY TO PEDESTRIANS WERE DUE TO PEDESTRIAN NEGLIGENCE, THE POLICE REGIONAL COMMANDER, HONG KONG ISLAND, MR JOHN CLEMENCE, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE PEDESTRIAN ROAD SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAMME.
JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE ROAD SAFETY ASSOCIATION AND THE TRAFFIC HONG KONG ISLAND OF THE POLICE, THE EXERCISE IS AIMED AT EDUCATING PEDESTRIANS ON PROPER ROAD CROSSING BEHAVIOUR.
MR CLEMENCE SAID THAT BETWEEN 1982 AND 1987. THE NUMBER OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS CAUSING DEATH AND INJURY ON THE ROADS OF HONG KONG STEADILY DECLINED. BUT THERE WAS A REVERSAL OF THAT TREND IN 1988.
"198^ HAS TO DATE SHOWN A MARGINAL IMPROVEMENT IN THE ACCIDENT RATE FOR THE ISLAND WITH FIGURES SHOWING A 4.7 PER CENT DECLINE,” HE SAID.
BUT HE NOTED THAT 69 PER CENT OF ACCIDENTS INVOLVING INJURY TO PEDESTRIANS WERE DUE TO THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE INJURED PERSONS.
HE SAID THAT THESE FIGURES UNDERLINED THE IMPORTANCE AND REQUIREMENT TO CONTINUE THE PEDESTRIAN ROAD SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAMME.
AFTER THE OPENING CEREMONY, SOME 100 SCHOOL ROAD SAFETY PATROL MEMBERS WERE SENT TO SEVEN TRAFFIC ACCIDENT BLACKSPOTS ON HONG KONG ISLAND. WHERE THEY DISTRIBUTED ROAD SAFETY LEAFLETS TO PEDESTRIANS WHO WERE FOUND TO VIOLATE THE ROAD CROSSING CODE.
THE LOCATIONS OF THE BLACKSPOTS ARE: KING'S ROAD/SHU KUK STREET; JAVA ROAD/TONG SHUI ROAD: HENNESSY ROAD/FLEMING ROAD; HENNESSY ROAD/TONNOCHY ROAD; DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL/PEDDER STREET; DES VOEUX ROAD WEST/SUTHERLAND STREET; AND DES VOEUX ROAD WEST/EASTERN STREET.
THE EXERCISE WILL BE REPEATED TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
---------------------0 ------- BREEDING STOCK PURCHASED FOR POLICE DOG UNIT *****
PREPARING TO UPGRADE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE POLICE DOG UNIT IN READINESS FOR ADDITIONAL DUTIES WHEN THE ARMY RELINQUISHES BORDER PATROLS IT HAS BEEN NECESSARY FOR THE UNIT NOT ONLY TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF DOG HANDLERS BUT ALSO ITS WELL-BRED DOGS.
THE OFFICER-IN-CHARGE OF THE POLICE DOG UNIT, MR CHIFF LAMBURN, WENT TO THE UNITED KINGDOM RECENTLY TO PURCHASE BREEDING STOCK TO IMPROVE AND CONTINUE THE ALREADY HIGH STANDARD OF POLICE DOG SERVICE.
/HE CAME........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
HE CAME BACK WITH FOUR YOUNG GERMAN SHEPHERD DOGS, TWO MALE AND TWO FEMALE. FOLLOWING VISITS TO 19 BREEDERS AND SUPPLIERS OF DOGS FOR THE POLICE SERVICE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM, THE MIDDLE EAST, EUROPE AND AUSTRALIA.
"ALL THE NEW PUPPIES ARE BRED FROM GERMAN WORKING STOCK. THEY ARE SOME OF THE BEST BRED ANIMALS EVER TO ENTER SERVICE WITH THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE," MR LAMBURN SAID.
RANGING IN AGE FROM 14 WEEKS TO SIX MONTHS. THE FOUR DOGS ORIGINATED FROM SUSSEX, DURHAM AND SOUTH WALES. THEY WERE MET ON ARRIVAL AT KAI TAK AND EXAMINED BY SPECIALISTS FROM THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT.
"THE PUPPIES ARE NOW SETTLING DOWN IN THEIR NEW ENVIRONMENT. ADAPTING TO THE CHANGE OF TEMPERATURE, THEIR HANDLERS AND COMMUNICATIONS LANGUAGE," MR LAMBURN SAID.
"EACH NEW DOG WILL HAVE ITS OWN HANDLER WHO WILL TRAIN THEM AND OBSERVE HOW THEY WILL DEVELOP INTO PROFESSIONAL POLICE DOGS•
"THEY WILL BE SET TO WORK IN POLICE STATIONS FOR A WHILE UNTIL THEY REACH 12 TO 14 MONTHS OF AGE. THEN THEY WILL RETURN TO THE DOG UNIT AT PING SHAN FOR BREEDING.
"DURING SIX YEARS WE EXPECT THAT THEY WILL PRODUCE UP TO 50 OFFSPRING, WHICH WILL ENABLE US TO ADD TO OUR STRENGTH OF DOGS AND ALSO REPLACE THOSE LOST DUE TO NATURAL WASTAGE.”
THE DOG PURCHASES WAS THE SECOND UNDERTAKEN BY MR LAMBURN SINCE HE JOINED THE DOG UNIT IN 1981 WHEN HE BROUGHT WITH HIM TO HONG KONG TWO FEMALE DOGS.
"THERE WERE 81 DOGS THEN AND NOW WE HAVE 90. WE LOSE ABOUT SEVEN DOGS A YEAR THROUGH OLD AGE OR INJURY.
"IN THE YEAR UP TO THE END OF SEPTEMBER A TOTAL OF 285 ARRESTS FOR VARIOUS OFFENCES WERE MADE WITH THE HELP OF POLICE DOGS.
"THEY ARE BUSIEST DURING THE CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR PERIODS BECAUSE OF ROBBERIES IN THE FESTIVE SEASONS.
"TWO BASIC COURSES ARE RUN EACH YEAR AND THERE ARE OTHERS TOO, SUCH AS REFRESHER AND RELOCATION COURSES HELD TO IMPROVE THE DOGS’ TRACKING AND DETECTIVE SKILLS."
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SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 4,
1989
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BACKDROP OF TUNG CHUNG FORT FOR BEATING RETREAT SHOWS *****
THE 16 DECADES OLD TUNG CHUNG FORT, A FORMER MARITIME BASE AND POLICE STATION, WILL BE BROUGHT TO THE PARADE GROUND OF THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL TO HIGHLIGHT THE MILITARY ORIGIN OF THE BEATING RETREAT CEREMONY.
THE ANNUAL EVENT, WHICH IS EVOLVED FROM THE MILITARY PRACTICE OF BEATING DRUMS TO CALL BACK TROOPS FROM BATTLES TO FORTS, IS ONE OF THE MOST COLOURFUL AND STIRRING MUSICAL FUNCTIONS IN THE POLICE CALENDAR.
THE TWO PUBLIC SHOWS, FEATURING THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE BANDS AND THE ROYAL MALAYSIA POLICE BAND IN FRONT OF A BACKDROP SHOWING THE MONUMENTAL TUNG CHUNG FORT, ON NOVEMBER 18 (SATURDAY) AND 19 (SUNDAY). BOTH SHOWS WILL BEGIN AT 7 PM. WILL BE A REMINISCENCE OF THE PAST MILITARY SPECTACLE.
BUILT IN 1832, TUNG CHUNG FORT WAS CHOSEN AS THE MARITIME HEADQUARTERS OF THE RIGHT BATTALION OF MIRS BAY IN THE QING DYNASTY BECAUSE OF ITS STRATEGIC LOCATION ON THE NORTHERN COAST OF LANTAU ISLAND WHERE IT COULD EFFECTIVELY CONTROL THE SEA PASSAGE DIVIDING LANTAU FROM THE MAINLAND.
ITS LINK WITH THE POLICE FORCE DATES BACK TO 1898 WHEN THE FORT WAS ADAPTED AS A POLICE STATION FOLLOWING THE EVACUATION OF THE QING AUTHORITIES AFTER THE NEW TERRITORIES WERE LEASED TO BRITAIN.
THE SIX CANNONS ON THE RAMPARTS FACING NORTH WERE BELIEVED TO HAVE BEEN MOVED TO THE FORT DURING THAT TIME.
IN 1979. THE FORT WAS DECLARED AS A MONUMENT BY THE ANTIQUITIES AUTHORITY IN REMEMBRANCE OF ITS PAST MILITARY SIGNIFICANCE. IT NOW HOUSES THE RURAL COMMITTEE OFFICE AND THE PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL OF TUNG CHUNG.
AMONG THE SPECTATORS ATTENDING THE BEATING RETREAT THIS YEAR WILL BE 84-YEAR-OLD MADAME TAI SIU-NGOI, WHO IS A HISTORICAL WITNESS TO THE CHANGES OF TUNG CHUNG FORT. SHE WILL BE INVITED AS A POLICE GUEST OF HONOUR TO THE EVENT.
MADAME TAI, BORN AND BROUGHT UP TN TUNG CHUNG, NOW HAS 20 GRAND AND GREAT-GRAND CHILDREN.
RECALLING HER PAST OLD DAYS, MADAME TAI SAID: "I STILL REMEMBER THOSE DAYS WHEN I USED TO SAY HELLO TO THOSE ’SAI YEN’ (WESTERNERS) IN FRONT OF THE RAMPARTS EVERY MORNING."
"ALTHOUGH THEY LOOKED VERY BIG AND FOREIGN, THEY WERE ALL VERY NICE AND ALWAYS SAID 'JOE SON’ (GOOD MORNING) TO ME."
"A FEW YEARS AFTER I GOT MARRIED, THOSE ’SAI YEN’ LEFT THE FORT AND IT WAS TURNED INTO A SCHOOL," SHE SAID.
/"I AM .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
’’I AM, LOOKING FORWARD TO THE BEATING RETREAT. I THINK IT WILL BRING ME BACK TO MY YOUNGER DAYS WHEN I USED TO PLAY AROUND THE FORT," MADAME TAI SAID.
WHILE THE BEATING RETREAT CEREMONY COULD BE TRACED BACK TO THE 16TH CENTURY WHEN DRUMMERS WERE USED TO ORDER TROOPS TO WITHDRAW FROM THE BATTLES AND RETURN TO DEFENDED LINES, THE INNOVATIVE USE OF TUNG CHUNG FORT AS THE BACKDROP WILL CREATE AN IMPRESSIVE VISUAL IMPACT, AND AN ATMOSPHERE BEFITTING THE SOLEMN BUT GRAND MILITARY EVENT FOR VIEWERS, ESPECIALLY MADAME TAI, AN OLD FRIEND OF THE FORCE AND THE FORT.
OTHER THAN MUSICAL DISPLAYS AND PRECISION DRILLS, THE PROGRAMME WILL ALSO INCLUDE TRADITIONAL FAN DANCE PERFORMED BY THE POLICE WOMEN’S CHINESE DANCE CLUB.
TICKETS FOR THE TWO PUBLIC NIGHTS, PRICED AT 130, 180, $120 AND $250. ARE NOW ON SALE AT THE POLICE WELFARE BRANCH (5-8041111) IN WAN CHAI, POLICE SPORTS AND RECREATION CLUB (3-7780258) IN SAI YEUNG CHOI STREET. NEW TERRITORIES REGIONAL WELFARE OFFICE (0-4872270) IN KWAI CHUNG AND ALL DISTRICT POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS OFFICES.
PROCEEDS OF THE SHOWS WILL GO TO THE HONG KONG SOCIETY FOR REHABILITATION.
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’SING AND CLEAN’ SONG CONTEST FOR FILIPINOS
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A "SING AND CLEAN" SONG CONTEST FOR FILIPINOS ORGANISED BY THE DIOCESAN PASTORAL CENTRE FOR FILIPINOS WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT CHATER GARDEN IN CENTRAL.
THE CONTEST REPRESENTS THE CONTINUED SUPPORT OF THE CENTRE AND THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY TO THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN. IT IS ALSO THE FOLLOW-UP TO A SERIES OF CLEAN-UP OPERATIONS HELD ON SUNDAYS SINCE OCTOBER LAST YEAR.
THE CONTEST WILL START WITH THE JUNIOR SECTION, TO BE FOLLOWED BY THE SENIOR SECTION. EACH SECTION HAS SIX CONTESTANTS.
A SOUVENIR PRESENTATION CEREMONY WILL BE HELD DURING A BREAK AFTER THE JUNIOR SECTION COMPETITION.
/PRESENT AT........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
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PRESENT AT THE CEREMONY WILL BE THE CONSUL-GENERAL OF THE PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL, MR VINCENTE REYES, AND THE LABOUR ATTACHE, MR ARTURO R. DE LIRA; CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT URBAN COUNCIL/ REGIONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEARN STEERING COMMITTEE, DR PANG HOK-TUEN, AND VICE-CHAIRMAN, MR TONG KAM-BIU; ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (HONG KONG) OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR CHAN CHI-SUM, THE DEPARTMENT’S DISTRICT HYGIENE SUPERINTENDENT (CENTRAL), MR PAU MAN-CHI: AND REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ORGANISER, SISTER M. ROSALINA WEE,
PRIZES WILL BE PRESENTED AFTER THE CONTEST. THERE WILL BE ALSO BE A CLEAN-UP OPERATION WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF 24 FILIPINO GROUPS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE "SING AND CLEAN" SONG CONTEST FOR FILIPINOS TO BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT CHATER GARDEN, CENTRAL. INFORMATION OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.
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CALL TO OBSERVE CHILD EMPLOYMENT REGULATIONS
*****
EMPLOYERS ARE URGED TO COMPLY STRICTLY WITH REGULATIONS ON THE EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN, OTHERWISE THEY MAY FACE PROSECUTION.
THE REMINDER FOLLOWS A RECENT COURT CASE IN WHICH THE PROPRIETOR OF A COMMERCIAL SCHOOL WAS FINED #7,000 FOR EMPLOYING SEVEN CHILDREN TO DISTRIBUTE ADVERTISEMENT LEAFLETS.
OF THEM, SIX WERE AGED UNDER 13 AND ONE AGED 13, AND THE LATTER WAS EMPLOYED WITHOUT A VALID SCHOOL ATTENDANCE CERTIFICATE AND WRITTEN CONSENT BY A PARENT.
A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN REGULATIONS, NO PERSON SHOULD EMPLOY A CHILD UNDER 15 YEARS OF AGE, EXCEPT THOSE AGED 13 AND ABOVE WHO MIGHT BE EMPLOYED ON A PART-TIME BASIS IN A NON-INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENT SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS.
"THE CHILD CAN ONLY BE EMPLOYED PROVIDED THAT, AMONG OTHERS, HIS PARENT HAS AGREED IN WRITING AND PRODUCED THE CHILD’S VALID SCHOOL ATTENDANCE CERTIFICATE OR EVIDENCE OF THE CHILD HAVING COMPLETED FORM 3 EDUCATION," HE ADDED.
ANYONE WHO BREACHES THESE PROVISIONS WILL BE LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF #20.000.
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SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 4, 1989
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IN-SERVICE TRAINING COURSE FOR KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS
*****
SERVING KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS WHO ARE PROFESSIONALLY UNTRAINED ARE INVITED TO ATTEND EITHER A 12-WEEK PART-TIME DAY RELEASE OR EVENING IN-SERVICE TRAINING COURSE IN MARCH NEXT YEAR TO BECOME A QUALIFIED ASSISTANT KINDERGARTEN TEACHER.
THE 12-WEEK PART-TIME DAY; RELEASE IN-SERVICE COURSE OF TRAINING FOR KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS (CHINESE) WILL BE OFFERED BY THE KINDERGARTEN SECTION OF THE ADVISORY INSPECTORATE OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AT ITS TEACHING CENTRE.
THE 12-WEEK PART-TIME EVENING T^sWWcE COURSE OF TRAINING FOR KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS (CHINESE) WILL BE RUN BY THE GRANTHAM COLLEGE OF EDUCATION.
IN ADDITION TO ATTENDING THE COURSE, A SIX-MONTH POST-COURSE SUPERVISED TEACHING WILL BE REQUIRED OF ALL TRAINEES. TRAINEES WILL BE AWARDED THE STATUS OF "QUALIFIED ASSISTANT KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS" UPON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF BOTH THE COURSE AND THE SUPERVISED TEACHING.
THE MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION FOR THE COURSES WILL BE CHINESE. NO TUITION FEES WILL BE CHARGED.
THE COURSE CONTENT WILL TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION BOTH THE PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION, AS WELL AS A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF CHILDREN’S DEVELOPMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF FACTORS INFLUENCING THEIR LEARNING AND BEHAVIOUR WHICH ARE OF SIGNIFICANCE TO CLASSROOM PRACTICE.
EMPHASIS WILL BE PLACED ON THE CONTENTS OF THE KINDERGARTEN CURRICULUM AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION. INCLUDING THE GENERAL ORGANISATION OF TIME-TABLES AND ACTIVITIES. THE ROLE OF KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS WILL ALSO BE REVIEWED AND CONSIDERED.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS, LEE GARDENS, THIRD FLOOR, HYSAN AVENUE, CAUSEWAY BAY; ITS KOWLOON SUB-OFFICE AT KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, SIXTH FLOOR, 405 NATHAN ROAD, YAU MA TEI; AND THE GRANTHAM COLLEGE OF EDUCATION ANNEXE, NINTH FLOOR, ARGYLE CENTRE, PHASE I, 688 NATHAN ROAD, MONG KOK (ENTRANCE AT SAI YEUNG CHOI STREET).
COMPLETED APPLICATION FORMS SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE GRANTHAM COLLEGE OF EDUCATION ANNEXE BEFORE NOVEMBER 25.
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/2O........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
20
MORE OPEN SPACE FACILITIES FOR TUEN MUN ♦ ♦ t * *
THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A PLAYGROUND AND A REST GARDEN AT SEPARATE LOCATIONS IN AREA 39, TUEN MUN UNDER A LOCAL OPEN SPACE PROJECT.
THE PLAYGROUND WILL BE CONSTRUCTED NEAR KAM FAI GARDEN, OCCUPYING AN AREA OF ABOUT 0.5 HECTARE.
THE FACILITIES TO BE PROVIDED WILL INCLUDE TWO BASKETBALL COURTS, A CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA, A TOILET BLOCK, SITTING-OUT AREAS, PLANTING AREAS AND A FOOTPATH LEADING TO THE MACLEHOSE TRAIL.
THE REST GARDEN, TO BE CONSTRUCTED ON A 0.2-HECTARE SITE ADJACENT TO THE CHINA LIGHT AND POWER STATION AT CASTLE PEAK ROAD, WILL FEATURE A PAVILION. A PERGOLA AND PLANTING AREAS.
TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE OFFICE OF THE CONSULTANT COMPANY ON THE FOURTH FLOOR, HYDE CENTRE, 221 GLOUCESTER ROAD, CAUSEWAY BAY, HONG KONG.
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING TENDERS IS NOON ON NOVEMBER 24.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN NEW TERRITORIES * t * * ♦
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT TO FACILITATE ROAD MAINTENANCE WORKS. THE THREE LANES OF THE TSUEN WAN BOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF TUEN MUN ROAD NEAR ITS JUNCTION WITH TSUEN WAN ROAD WILL BE PARTIALLY CLOSED IN TURN FROM 8 PM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6) TO 8 PM ON NOVEMBER 14.
CLOSURE OF TWO LANES WILL ONLY BE IMPLEMENTED AT NIGHT (8 PM TO 7 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY). ONE LANE WILL BE CLOSED FOR THE REST OF THE CLOSURE PERIOD.
TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL AND ITS APPROACHES IN SHA TIN. THE WESTBOUND CARRIAGEWAY SECTION OF SIU LEK YUEN ROAD BETWEEN KWONG SIN STREET AND SHA TIN WAI ROAD WILL BE CLOSED BETWEEN 10 PM AND 6 AM NEXT MORNING FROM MONDAY TO NOVEMBER 15.
DURING THE CLOSURE. MOTORISTS ON WESTBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF SIU LEK YUEN ROAD HEADING FOR CITY ONE SHA TIN WILL BE DIVERTED TO USE KWONG SIN STREET. AN UNNAMED ROAD AND SHA TIN WAI ROAD BEFORE REJOINING SIU LEK YUEN ROAD.
IN ADDITION. BECAUSE OF ROAD MAINTENANCE WORK. THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS OF TAI PO ROAD AND TOLO HIGHWAY IN SHA TIN WILL BE PARTIALLY CLOSED FROM MONDAY:
/♦ THE OUTER-MOST
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
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* THE OUTER-MOST LANE OF TOLO HIGHWAY AND TAI PO ROAD SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN MA LIU SHUT INTERCHANGE AND FO TAN NULLAH WILL BE CLOSED FROM 8 AM ON MONDAY TO 8 PM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 8).
* THE OUTER-MOST LANE OF TAI PO ROAD AND TOLO HIGHWAY NORTHBOUND BETWEEN HO TUNG LAU AND MA LIU SHUI INTERCHANGE WILL BE CLOSED FROM 8 AM ON NOVEMBER 9 TO 8 PM ON NOVEMBER 11.
* THE OUTER-MOST LANE OF TOLO HIGHWAY SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN MA LIU SHUI AND MA LIU SHUI INTERCHANGE WILL BE CLOSED FROM 6 AM ON NOVEMBER 13 TO 8 PM THE FOLLOWING DAY.
* THE OUTER-MOST LANE OF TOLO HIGHWAY NORTHBOUND BETWEEN MA LIU SHUI INTERCHANGE AND MA LIU SHUI WILL BE CLOSED 6 AM ON NOVEMBER 15 TO 8 PM THE FOLLOWING DAY.
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TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF CAPE COLLINSON RD SECTION * * * * *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT CAPE COLLINSON ROAD NEAR CAPE COLLINSON BUDDHIST CEMETERY IN CHAI WAN WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6).
THE CLOSURE WILL BE IN EFFECT FOR ABOUT FOUR DAYS FOR ROAD RESURFACING WORKS.
CAPE COLLINSON ROAD BETWEEN LIN SHING ROAD AND THE BUDDHIST CEMETERY WILL BECOME A TWO-WAY CUL-DE-SAC, WITH ACCESS FROM LIN SHING ROAD.
VEHICLES HEADING FOR CAPE COLLINSON CREMATORIUM WILL HAVE TO GAIN ACCESS FROM SHEK O ROAD.
AT THE SAME TIME, GREEN MINIBUS ROUTE 16M WILL BE DIVERTED VIA CHAI WAI ROAD AND TAI TAM ROAD.
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1989
22
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF HIP WO LANE
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6), HIP WO LANE IN HAPPY VALLEY BETWEEN CHEONG MING STREET AND SHING PING STREET WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC.
THE CLOSURE WILL LAST FOR ABOUT TWO WEEKS TO FACILITATE LAYING OF GAS MAINS.
AT THE SAME TIME, CHEONG MING STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED TO ONE-WAY WESTBOUND WHILE HIP WO LANE BETWEEN LUN HING STREET AND SHING PING STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED TO ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND.
SOUTHBOUND VEHICLES ON HIP WO LANE WILL BE DIVERTED VIA CHEONG MING STREET AND SING WOO ROAD. THOSE HEADING FOR HIP WO LANE BETWEEN LUN HING STREET AND SHING PING STREET WILL HAVE TO GAIN ACCESS FROM LUN HING STREET.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN TO KWA WAN
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT TO FACILITATE SEWER CONSTRUCTION WORKS IN TO KWA WAN, FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6) THE SECTION OF TO KWA WAN ROAD NORTHBOUND FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH LOK SHAN ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 100 METRES NORTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE REDUCED TO TWO-LANE TRAFFIC.
THE BUS LANE ON THE SECTION OF TO KWA WAN ROAD NORTHBOUND BETWEEN CHI KIANG STREET AND SHEUNG HEUNG ROAD WILL BE CANCELLED.
THE MEASURES WILL BE IN EFFECT FOR ABOUT THREE MONTHS.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN KOWLOON TONG * » » * »
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6). THE FOLLOWING TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED AT THE JUNCTION OF TAT CHEE AVENUE EXTENSION AND CORNWALL STREET IN CONNECTION WITH THE INSTALLATION OF SIGNALS THERE:
THE BUS ONLY LANE DESIGNATED ON THE OFFSIDE LANE OF NORTHBOUND TAT CHEE AVENUE NEAR THE JUNCTION WITH CORNWALL STREET WILL BE CANCELLED:
THE RIGHT TURN FROM TAT CHEE AVENUE NORTHBOUND INTO CORNWALL STREET EASTBOUND. AND THE RIGHT TURN FROM CORNWALL STREET EASTBOUND INTO TAT CHEE AVENUE SOUTHBOUND WILL BE OPENED.
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SPEED LIMIT ON ISLAND EASTERN CORRIDOR * » » » «
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 6), THE SPEED LIMIT ON THE ISLAND EASTERN CORRIDOR BETWEEN A POINT ABOUT 250 METRES EAST OF THE HEALTHY STREET WEST INTERCHANGE SLIP ROAD AND A POINT ABOUT 100 METRES EAST OF THE SAI WAN HO INTERCHANGE SLIP ROAD WILL BE SUBJECT TO A SPEED LIMIT OF 70 KILOMETRES PER HOUR.
THE SPEED LIMIT ON THIS ROAD SECTION WAS REDUCED TO 50 KILOMETRES PER HOUR IN OCTOBER 1986 FOR WORKS ON THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5» "'989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR OFFICIATES AT CULTURAL CENTRE....................... 1
PUBLIC URGED TO KEEP COUNTRY PARKS CLEAN AND GREEN .......... 2
'SING AND CLEAN' SONG CONTEST FOR FILIPINOS ................. 4
OVERWHELMING RESPONSE TO CLOTHING INDUSTRY CONFERENCE ....... 5
EXHIBITION TO BOOST EMPLOYMENT OF THE DISABLED .............. 6
TAC MEETING TOMORROW ........................................ 7
FIRST ANCIENT POTS SHOW OPENS ............................... 8
POLICING OF HIGH ISLAND DETENTION CENTRE .................... 8
FIGHTING VICE ACTIVITIES IN WAN CHAI'........................ 10
ANTI-JUVENILE CRIMES COMIC BOOKLET PUBLISHED ............... 11
SHOP PROPRIETORS URGED TO CONTRIBUTE TO ROAD SAFETY.......... 12
BUILDING MANAGEMENT SEMINAR FOR SHAM SHUI PO RESIDENTS....... 1J
TSUEN WAN DB TO DISCUSS POLICY ADDRESS ...................... 14
DB COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER APPLICATIONS FOR FINDS ............. 14
1990-91 DB BUDGET ON COMMITTEE AGENDA ....................... 15
SHA TIN DB INVITES FUND APPLICATIONS ........................ 15
75 NEW BUILDING PLANS APPROVED IN AUGUST..................... 16
IMPROVEMENT WORKS TO TAI WAN PUMPING STATION ................ 16
ANTI-DRUG SYMBOL DESIGN COMPETITION CALLS FOR EARLY SUBMISSIONS .................................................. 17
MUSIC OFFICE HOLDS YOUTH STRING MUSIC FESTIVAL............... 18
WATER CUTS IN THREE AREAS ................................... 19
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR ROYAL VISIT ................ 19
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN TSIM SHA TSUI ........................ 26
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
1
GOVERNOR OFFICIATES AT CULTURAL CENTRE
* » t » *
THE COMPLETION OF THE HONG KONG CULTURAL CENTRE IS A STRIKING SYMBOL OF PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE URBAN COUNCIL AND OF THE COMMITMENT BOTH HAVE TO THE PROMOTION OF ARTS, THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON SAID. TONIGHT (SUNDAY).
SIR DAVID WAS OFFICIATING AT THE HANDING-OVER CEREMONY OF THE CULTURAL CENTRE LOCATED AT ID SALISBURY ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI, KOWLOON.
ACCOMPANIED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL, MR H.M.G. FORSGATE, SIR DAVID LAID A TIME-CAPSULE CONTAINING VARIOUS MEMORABILIA "TO REMIND POSTERITY OF THE HISTORIC OCCASION".
SIR DAVID SAID THIS CENTRE. WITH ALL ITS SPLENDID MODERN FACILITIES, PRODUCES A NEW LANDMARK ON THE KOWLOON PENINSULA: IT ALSO MARKS A NEW ERA IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PERFORMING ARTS IN HONG KONG.
"HONG KONG IS A STARTLINGLY SUCCESSFUL CITY IN TERMS OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS. TRADE AND FINANCE.
"BUT LIFE HERE WOULD NOT BE COMPLETE IF WE DID NOT ALSO BUILD UP THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR INCREASINGLY WELL-EDUCATED AND PROSPEROUS POPULATION TO ENJOY' THE BEST THAT CAN BE OFFERED IN TERMS OF LEISURE AND THE ARTS."
THE GOVERNOR SAID THAT WITHIN THE NEW CULTURAL CENTRE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WOULD BE ABLE TO ENJOY EXCELLENCE IN THE ARTS OF BOTH EAST AND WEST.
SIR DAVID SAID : "THIS WILL BE NO SMALL TASK FOR THE URBAN COUNCIL. TO WHOM THIS CENTRE IS BEING FORMALLY HANDED OVER TONIGHT.
"GIVEN THE COUNCIL'S TRADITION OF PROVIDING FIRST-RATE CULTURAL AND MUNICIPAL SERVICES TO THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, I KNOW THAT THEY WILL MEET THE CHALLENGE WITH VIGOUR AND DETERMINATION.
"FOR YEARS TO COME. 1 AM SURE THIS CENTRE WILL BE AS POPULAR WITH BOTH LOCAL RESIDENTS AND OVERSEAS VISITORS, AS THE SPACE MUSEUM, WHICH WAS THE FIRST PHASE OF THIS MASSIVE PROJECT. ALREADY IS.
"WE ALL LOOK FORWARD TO THE COMPLETION OF THE NEXT PHASE OF THE PROJECT - THE MUSEUM OF ART."
AT THE HANDING-OVER CEREMONY IN THE Z.IDO-SEAT CONCERT HALL, THE DIRECTOR OF ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES. MR JOSE LEI. PRESENTED THE KEY TO THE CULTURAL CENTRE TO THE GOVERNOR. AND THE GOVERNOR PRESENTED THE KEY TO MR FORSGATE.
MR FORSGATE SAID THE COMPLETION OF THIS CULTURAL CENTRE OPENS UP A NEW CHAPTER FOR HONG KONG.
/"THE SUPERB .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5. 1989
2
"THE SUPERB CONCERT HALL BECOMES THE PERMANENT HOME FOR OUR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA WHICH IS IMPROVING WITH EVERY PERFORMANCE NOW UNDER THE BATON OF OUR NEW MUSIC DIRECTOR DAVID ATHERTON.
"IT WILL OF COURSE ALSO BE THE VENUE FOR OTHER GREAT ORCHESTRAS FROM EVERY CORNER OF THE WORLD."
MR FORSGATE SAID THAT IN THE 1,750-SEAT GRAND THEATRE, HONG KONG PEOPLE HAD AT LAST, "A VENUE TO STAGE OPERA ON A GRAND SCALE, BOTH CHINESE AND WESTERN, BALLET, DRAMA, AND MUSICALS".
MR FORSGATE SAID : "THESE AND A HOST OF OTHER ANCILLARY ACTIVITIES WHICH THIS CENTRE CATERS FOR WILL MAKE HONG KONG THE CULTURAL CENTRE OF ASIA.
"THIS IS INDEED A CHALLENGE TO MANAGEMENT IN BOTH MARKETING AND OPERATIONS. I AM SURE THAT THE URBAN COUNCIL WILL BE EQUAL TO THE TASK."
MR FORSGATE PRESENTED TO SIR DAVID A SOUVENIR ALBUM CAPTURING THE MANY FACETS OF THE MAGNIFICANT CULTURAL CENTRE.
AFTER TONIGHT’S CEREMONY, SIR DAVID ATTENDED A CONCERT BY THE FAMOUS AMERICAN SOPRANO JESSYE NORMAN WITH THE HONG KONG PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA IN THE CONCERT HALL — THE FIRST PERFORMANCE OF THE MONTH-LONG "INTERNATIONAL CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS" TO MARK THE OPENING OF THE CULTURAL CENTRE.
-------o --------
PUBLIC URGED TO KEEP COUNTRY PARKS CLEAN AND GREEN
*****
THE CONCERTED EFFORT AND CO-OPERATION OF ALL ARE NECESSARY TO KEEP OUR COUNTRY PARKS CLEAN AND GREEN, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR GRAHAM BARNES, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
MR BARNES WAS OFFICIATING AT THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY OF THE COUNTRY PARK AUTHORITY’S "CLEAN AND GREEN" SCHEME 1989 AT THE TAI LAM COUNTRY PARK.
HE NOTED THAT SOME 4,000 TONNES OF LITTER WERE COLLECTED IN COUNTRY PARKS LAST YEAR AND THIS INVOLVED AN ENORMOUS EXPENDITURE OF EFFORTS AND MONEY.
"THE PEOPLE WE USE TO COLLECT AND DISPOSE OF LITTER CAN IN FACT BE USED FOR BETTER PURPOSES SUCH AS DEVELOPING COUNTRY PARKS FACILITIES.
/"ALL OF
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5» 1989
- 3 -
"ALL OF US CAN HELP KEEP OUR COUNTRY PARKS CLEAN AND TIDY SIMPLY BY MAKING GOOD USE OF THE LARGE NUMBERS OF LITTER BINS AND LITTER STOCKADES PROVIDED IN THE PARKS, OR BETTER STILL, BY TAKING OUR LITTER HOME," HE CONTINUED.
ANOTHER OFFICIATING GUEST, THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, DR LAWRENCE LEE, RECALLED THAT THE "CLEAN AND GREEN" SCHEME WAS FIRST INAUGURATED IN 1983, WHEN ONLY 5,000 PEOPLE PARTICIPATED.
THE SCHEME HAD NOW BECOME AN ANNUAL EVENT AND IN 1988 IT DREW WELL OVER 11,400 PARTICIPANTS.
"WE HOPE THIS POPULARITY WILL CONTINUE SO THAT THE MESSAGE OF KEEPING COUNTRY PARKS CLEAN AND GREEN CAN BE SPREAD FURTHER AND WIDER," DR LEE SAID.
HE SAID THE ACTIVITIES THIS YEAR INCLUDED THE "CLEAN AND GREEN" WALK, VOLUNTARY SERVICES IN LITTER COLLECTION AND TREE TENDING IN COUNTRY PARKS AND A "BEST COUNTRYSIDE TREE" COMPETITION. THE ACTIVITIES WOULD CARRY ON TILL THE END OF FEBRUARY NEXT YEAR.
"ALL ARE WELCOME TO TAKE PART AND PARTICIPANTS WHO HAVE COMPLETED EACH ACTIVITY WILL BE GIVEN A MEMENTO SOUVENIR WHILE WINNERS OF THE COMPETITION WILL BE AWARDED WITH SPECIAL PRIZES," DR LEE ADDED.
HE THANKED THE BAYER CHINA COMPANY FOR SPONSORING THIS YEAR'S PROGRAMME AND THE ROTARY CLUB, HONG KONG HARBOUR FOR DONATING PRIZES FOR THE "BEST COUNTRYSIDE TREE" COMPETITION.
MR WARREN MAN AND MR CHARLES WONG, REPRESENTATIVE OF THE BAYER CHINA COMPANY AND PRESIDENT OF THE ROTARY CLUB, HONG KONG HARBOUR, RESPECTIVELY, ALSO OFFICIATED AT TODAY’S LAUNCHING CEREMONY.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS WERE MR CARLOS CHEUNG, CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNTRY PARKS BOARD (CPB), AND MR DANIEL TO, CHAIRMAN OF THE "CLEAN AND GREEN" SCHEME WORKING GROUP UNDER THE CPB’S PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE.
AFTER THE PRESENTATION OF SOUVENIRS AND RIBBON-CUTTING, THE PARTY FORMALLY KICKED OFF THE SCHEME BY TAKING THE LEAD IN A "CLEAN AND GREEN" WALK ALONG THE TWISK SECTION OF THE MACLEHOSE TRAIL.
ABOUT 250 BOY SCOUTS. GIRL GUIDES AND YOUNGSTERS FROM THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB, THE JUNIOR POLICE CALL AND HIKING GROUPS TOOK PART IN THE WALK, WHICH MARKED THE FIRST IN A SERIES TO BE HELD ALONG THE MACLEHOSE TRAIL ON ALL SUNDAYS IN NOVEMBER BETWEEN 9.30 AM AND 4 PM.
THE OFFICIATING PARTY STOPPED ON THE WAY AND TALKED TO SOME YOUNGSTERS WHO WERE ASSISTING IN LITTER PICKING AND TREE TENDING WORK.
TO FACILITATE THE "CLEAN AND GREEN" WALK, 10 POSTS WILL BE SET UP ALONG THE MACLEHOSE TRAIL AND PARTICIPANTS WHO COMPLETE ONE SECTION OF THE TRAIL AND RETURN A FULL BAG OF LITTER TO ANY OF THE POSTS WILL BE GIVEN A SOUVENIR.
/ANTONE WHO
9
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
ANYONE WHO MANAGES TO COMPLETE MORE THAN SIX SECTIONS OE TRAIL WITHIN FOUR SUNDAYS WILL BE PRESENTED WITH AN ADDITIONAL SOUVENIR.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO TAKE PART IN VOLUNTARY SERVICES IN LITTER COLLECTION MAY DO SO BETWEEN DECEMBER 1 AND JANUARY 21 NEXT YEAR AT 13 DESIGNATED SITES INSIDE THE POPULAR COUNTRY PARKS ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
DURING THE SAME PERIOD, LITTER PICKING AND TREE TENDING ACTIVITIES IN COUNTRY PARKS WILL BE ARRANGED FOR ORGANISED GROUPS AND SCHOOLS ON WEEKDAYS AND SATURDAYS.
MOREOVER, COUNTRYSIDE VISITORS SHOULD WATCH OUT FOR BEAUTIFUL TREES IF THEY WANT TO WIN A HANDSOME PRIZE IN THE "BEST COUNTRYSIDE TREE" COMPETITION.
ALL THEY HAVE TO DO IS TO NOMINATE A TREE WHICH THEY THINK IS THE BEST IN HONG KONG’S COUNTRYSIDE. THE CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES IS FEBRUARY 28 NEXT YEAR.
ENQUIRIES ON DETAILS OF ACTIVITIES UNDER THE "CLEAN AND GREEN" SCHEME CAN BE DIRECTED TO THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 3-7332121 OR 0-4200529, OR AT ANY COUNTRY PARK VISITOR CENTRE.
- - 0 -----------
’SING AND CLEAN' SONG CONTEST FOR FILIPINOS *****
MEMBERS OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY DEMONSTRATED THEIR SUPPORT FOR THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN BY PARTICIPATING TN THE "SING AND CLEAN SONG CONTEST FOR FILIPINOS HELD AT CHATER GARDEN IN CENTRAL TODAY (SUNDAY).
THE FUNCTION. ORGANISED BY THE DIOCESAN PASTORAL CENTRE FOR FILIPINOS. MARKED THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY’S PARTICIPATION IN THE CAMPAIGN’S COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT SCHEME.
SISTER M. ROSALINA WEE OF THE CENTRE SAID: "IN THE FAR EAST WE ARE KNOWN FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC. SO WE WOULD LIKE TO CULMINATE THIS YEAR’S INVOLVEMENT WITH A SINGING CONTEST."
KEEP CLEAN MESSAGES WERE DISSEMINATED THROUGH SINGING IN TAGALOG TO ABOUT 1,200 FILIPINOS WHO ATTENDED THE FUNCTION.
OFFICIATING AT THE EVENT, THE PHILIPPINE CONSUL-GENERAL, MR VINCETE REYES, TOOK THE OPPORTUNITY TO INVITE HIS COUNTRY FOLKS IN HONG KONG TO JOIN IN THE EFFORT IN KEEPING THE ENVIRONMENT CLEAN.
ALSO OFFICIATING AT THE FUNCTION WAS CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT URBAN COUNCIL/REGIONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE, DR PANG 1IOK-TUEN, WHO VERY MUCH APPRECIATED THE EFFORT OF THE ORGANISER AND THE PARTICIPANTS.
/HE SAID .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
HF. SAID THE NUMBER OF LOCAL FILIPINO GROUPS PARTICIPATING IN THE FUNCTION TODAY HAD DOUBLED AS COMPARED WITH LAST YEAR’S FIGURE.
DR PANG SAID THE WIDER PARTICIPATION OF THE LOCAL FILIPINO COMMUNITY WAS AN INDICATION THAT THE "PITCH-IN" MESSAGE PROMOTED THROUGH THE COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT SCHEME WAS GAINING GROUND AND MORE PEOPLE WERE NOW WILLING TO DEVOTE THEIR LEISURE TIME TOWARDS KEEPING HONG KONG CLEAN.
"IT IS NOT MERELY A MATTER OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS GETTING MORE MANPOWER AND RESOURCES TO PHYSICALLY CLEAN UP AND DISPOSE OF THE REFUSE. RATHER IT IS HOW WE CAN ENGENDERE A MASS EFFORT TOWARDS EXERCISING A HIGHER DEGREE OF CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY." HE ADDED.
DR PANG ADDED THAT ALTHOUGH HONG KONG WAS MUCH CLEANER THAN BEFORE, THERE WAS STILL ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT. THE SUCCESS OF THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN RELIED TO A GREAT EXTENT ON THE ALL-OUI EFFORT OF EVERYONE LIVING IN HONG KONG REGARDLESS OF RACE. CREED OR COLOUR.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS AT THE EVENT WERE VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE STEERING COMMITTEE. MR TONG KAM-BIU: LABOUR ATTACHE OF THF PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL, MR ARTURO R. DE LIRA; ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (HONG KONG) OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT. MR CHAN CHI-SUM. AND THE DEPARTMENT’S DISTRICT HYGIENE SUPERINTENDENT (CENTRAL), MR PAU MAN-CHI.
AFTER THE PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY OF THE SONG CONTEST. 24 FILIPINO GROUPS JOINED HANDS TO CLEAN UP CHATER GARDEN AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS.
- - 0 - -
OVERWHELMING RESPONSE TO CLOTHING INDUSTRY CONFERENCE ♦ * t ♦ ♦
LOCAL GARMENT MANUFACTURERS HAVE PROVED THEIR EAGERNESS TO LOOK AHEAD AT THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY, THE DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR T.H. BARMA. SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
HE WAS REFERRING TO THE OVERWHELMING RESPONSE TO A ONE DAY CONFERENCE TO BE HELD AT THE SHANGRI-LA HOTEL ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 10) TO INTRODUCE PRACTICAL SYSTEMS AND LOW COST EQUIPMENT FOR SOLVING COMMON PROBLEMS IN CLOTHING MANUFACTURING.
ACCORDING TO MR BARMA, ALL OF THE 300 SEATS AT THE CONFERENCE HAD BEEN SUBSCRIBED AND 15 COMPANIES HAD DONATED CASH TOWARDS THE CONFERENCE COSTS.
/ENTITLED "THE
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 6 -
ENTITLED "THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY IN THE ’90'S: TECHNICAL PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS", THE CONEERENCE IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT, THE CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR INSTITUTE (HONG KONG BRANCH). THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY, THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL, THE TEXTILE INSTITUTE (HONG KONG SECTION), AND THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY TRAINING BOARD OF THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL.
"AS ITS NAME IMPLIES. THE CONFERENCE AIMS TO LOOK AT THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY. THE CHALLENGES AND TECHNICAL PROBLEMS IT FACES AND THE SOLUTION AVAILABLE TO IT.
"THE CONFERENCE PROVIDES A FORUM FOR BRINGING TOGETHER TECHNOLOGY VENDORS AND USERS TO DISCUSS THE SOLUTIONS TO VARIOUS TECHNICAL PROBLEMS AND IN THIS WAY WILL INSPIRE CONFIDENCE IN THE APPLICATION OF MODERN TECHNOLOGY.” MR BARMA SAID.
THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR JOHN CHAN, HAS BEEN INVITED TO GIVE THE OPENING ADDRESS WHILE A KEYNOTE ADDRESS WILL BE DELIVERED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL, MR JAMES TIEN.
APART FROM THE PRESENTATIONS AND DISCUSSION SESSIONS, THE ORGANISERS WILL BE HOLDING AN EXHIBITION ON CLOTHING EQUIPMENT. ATTACHMENTS AND SERVICES IN WHICH 12 COMPANIES HAVE COMMITTED TO TAKE PART. OPENING HOURS ARE FROM 9.15 AM TO 5 PM.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CONFERENCE TO BE HELD ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 10) AT THE LOWER BASEMENT FUNCTION ROOMS OF THE SHANGRI-LA HOTEL. TSIM SHA TSUI.
IT WILL BEGIN AT 9.15 AM.
-----0------
EXHIBITION TO BOOST EMPLOYMENT OF THE DISABLED
*****
A WEEK-LONG EXHIBITION TO INCREASE PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF THE VARIOUS ASPECTS OF EMPLOYMENT OF DISABLED PERSONS WILL BE OPENED ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 10) AT THE NEW WORLD PLAZA. TSIM SHA TSUI.
THE EVENT IS ORGANISED BY THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT DIVISION OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT FOR THE FOURTH YEAR RUNNING.
THE ANNUAL EVENT IS AIMED AT PROMOTING- EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DISABLED IN VARIOUS INDUSTRIES, PARTICULARLY IN THE COMMERCIAL AND SERVICE SECTORS.
/IT IS ......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5. 1989
IT IS ALSO INTENDED TO ENHANCE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE WORKING ABILITIES OF THE DISABLED. AS WELL AS THE TRAINING FACILITIES AND EMPLOYMENT AIDS AVAILABLE TO THEM.
THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHIC DISPLAYS AND AUDIO-VISUAL PRESENTATIONS AT A NUMBER OF BOOTHS. VISTORS WILL BE ABLE TO SEE HOW DISABLED PEOPLE ARE PLACED IN OPEN EMPLOYMENT AND TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THEIR POTENTIAL WORKING ABILITIES.
THE EXHIBITION WILL ALSO DEPICT THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING, JOB ASSESSMENT AND EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES PROVIDED BY THE TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND INDUSTRIAL TRAINING DEPARTMENT.
IN ADDITION. THERE WILL BE DISPLAY OF DIFFERENT EMPLOYMENT AIDS AND MACHINERY SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO HELP THE DISABLED AT WORK, JOB-MATCHING BY COMPUTER, AND A COMPUTER QUESTION-AND-ANSWER GAME BOOTH.
THE EXHIBITION ALSO INCLUDES WORK DEMONSTRATIONS BY DISABLED WORKERS ON COMPUTER OPERATION, COMPUTER PROGRAMMING, AUDIO-TYPING, CHINESE TYPEWRITING, THERMAL BINDING, OFFSET DUPLICATING AND OPERATION OF TELEX MACHINES AND PRINTERS.
THE EVENT WILL BE OPENED JOINTLY BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD, COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR TONY HAMMOND. AND GENERAL MANAGER OF THE SPONSORING COMPANY - NEW WORLD DEVELOPMENT CO. LTD., MR MARK BROWNE. AT 3 PM ON FRIDAY.
IT WILL THEN BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC DAILY FROM 10 AM TO 6.30 PM UNTIL NOVEMBER 16.
- - 0 - -
TAC MEETING TOMORROW
* * »
THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE WILL CONTINUE TO DISCUSS THE PUBLIC COMMENTS ON THE GREEN PAPER ON TRANSPORT POLICY IN HONG KONG AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (MONDAY).
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 4.15 PM AT THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES.
- 0 -
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
8
FIRST ANCIENT POTS SHOW OPENS *****
AN EXHIBITION OF ANCIENT POTS ORGANISED BY CHING CHUNG MONASTERY AS PART OF THIS YEAR’S TUEN MUN FESTIVAL WAS OPENED TODAY (SUNDAY 1.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR ADOLF HSU. SAID THE EXHIBITION WAS THE FIRST OF ITS KIND EVER HELD IN THE TERRITORY.
HE NOTED THAT ALL THE EXHIBITS WERE CULTURAL RELICS WITH GREAT HISTORICAL VALUE.
"NOT ONLY CAN LOCAL RESIDENTS ENJOY THIS EXHIBITION, PEOPLE FROM OTHER DISTRICTS CAN ALSO BENEFIT FROM THIS DISPLAY OF HUNDREDS OF ANCIENT POTS," HE SAID.
MR HSU HOPED MORE EXHIBITIONS OF THIS NATURE COULD BE HELD.
SELECTED FROM THE TAOIST CHING CHUNG MONASTERY’S COLLECTION OF
OVER 3,000 ANCIENT POTS, THE 300 EXHIBITS REPRESENT A VARIETY OF STYLES AS WELL AS EXQUISITE CRAFTSMANSHIP. SOME OF THEM CAN BE DATED BACK TO THE SUNG DYNASTY.
THE EXHIBITION IS BEING HELD IN THE EXHIBITION GALLERY OF TUEN MUN TOWN HALL. IT IS OPEN DAILY FROM 9 AM TO 8 PM AND WILL LAST UNTIL NOVEMBER 12.
-----o-----
POLICING OF HIGH ISLAND DETENTION CENTRE
*****
TEAMS OF POLICE BICYCLE PATROLS AROUND THE TWO KILOMETRE PERIMETER OF THE NEW HIGH ISLAND DETENTION CENTRE HAVE BEEN ADDED TO THE DETAILED SECURITY MEASURES BEING TAKEN AT THE CAMP IN READINESS FOR THE 7.000 VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE IT HAS BEEN BUILT TO ACCOMMODATE.
THE CAMP -- THE FIRST TO BE BUILT SPECIFICALLY ACCORDING TO POLICE REQUIREMENTS -- IS NOW RECEIVING ITS FIRST INHABITANTS, MOVED TO REMOTE HIGH ISLAND FROM ERSKINE CAMP AND OTHER CENTRES.
AND WHILE EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO PROVIDE A HUMANE AND HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT FOR THE VIETNAMESE MUCH CONSIDERATION HAS ALSO BEEN DEVOTED TO THE WELFARE AND WORKING CONDITIONS OF THE 200 POLICE OFFICERS AND CIVILIANS WHO WILL EVENTUALLY WORK THERE.
THE VIETNAMESE WILL LIVE IN A VILLAGE STYLE SYSTEM THAT WILL BE FAMILIAR WITH MOST OF THEM. THE POLICE WILL WORK IN A DIVISIONAL ORGANISATION.
/THE
SUPERINTENDENT
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 9 -
THE SUPERINTENDENT OF HIGH ISLAND DETENTION CENTRE, SAID: MR ALAN NEWTON. "WE HOPE TO DEVELOP A VILLAGE IDENTITY AMONG THE PEOPLE AT THE CENTRE. THE AREA ITSELF IS BEING DIVIDED INTO FIVE VILLAGES WITH THEIR OWN FACILITIES.
"FOR THE STAFF WE ARE TRYING TO CREATE A POLICE ORGANISATION AS NEAR AS POSSIBLE TO A NORMAL DIVISIONAL SETUP SO THAT THEY KNOW WHERE THEY STAND AND IF THEY HAVE A PROBLEM THEY KNOW WHO TO GO TO."
MR NEWTON WHO WAS TRANSFERRED TO HIGH ISLAND AFTER BEING IN CHARGE OF ERSKINE CAMP. WHICH IS TO CLOSE, SAID LESSONS SUCCESSFULLY LEARNED AT ERSKINE WOULD BE FOLLOWED AND FURTHER DEVELOPED AT THE NEW CAMP.
VIETNAMESE ARE MOVING INTO THE CENTRE AT AN ACCEPTABLE DAILY RATE THAT WILL ALLOW EFFICIENT RECEPTION AND SEARCHING OF THE INMATES, THE ISSUE OF RELIEF ITEMS AND BLANKETS AND THE ALLOCATION OF ACCOMMODATION.
THEY WILL LIVE IN 22 ALL-WEATHER ROMNEY HUTS, CONSTRUCTED IN EUROPE. EACH WITH A CAPACITY FOR 300 PERSONS.
THE CAMP IS DIVIDED INTO FIVE "VILLAGES" — TWO IN THE NORTH AREA FOR SINGLE MEN AND WOMEN AND THREE IN THE SOUTH FOR FAMILY GROUPS.
EACH OF THE "VILLAGES" WILL HAVE ITS OWN FACILITIES FOR FOOD COLLECTION. GAMES, RECREATION. THE EDUCATION OF CHILDREN AND THE ALLOCATION OF WORK.
MR NEWTON SAID: "THE MAIN IDEA IS TO GET AS MANY VIETNAMESE AS POSSIBLE INVOLVED IN THE DAILY ROUTINE AT THE CENTRE. WE WANT THEM TO ORGANISE THEMSELVES AND BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEMSELVES."
OFFICE ACCOMMODATION AT THE CENTRE IS IN CUSTOM BUILT CONTAINERS FITTED WITH ELECTRICITY AND AIR CONDITIONERS. A LARGE INFIRMARY WILL HAVE THREE CONSULTING ROOMS. DISPENSARY, DRESSING ROOM AND SICK BAYS.
OFFICERS ARE DIVIDED INTO FOUR SECURITY TEAMS WORKING 12 HOUR SHIFTS. ONE TEAM WILL REMAIN IN RESERVE AT ALL TIMES.
TRANSPORT WILL BE PROVIDED FOR POLICE OFFICERS DAILY FROM WONG TAI SIN POLICE HEADQUARTERS AND OFFICERS ON RESERVE WILL STAY IN ACCOMMODATION IN FORMER ARMY PREMISES ADJACENT TO MAN YEE POLICE POST.
MR NEWTON EMPHASISED THE EFFORTS MADE TO SATISFY LOCAL INHABITANTS ON SECURITY AND POLLUTION MATTERS.
"THE CYCLE PATROLS AROUND THE PERIMETER WILL RIDE ON A SPECIAL STEEL PATH. THEY AND OFFICERS INSIDE THE CENTRE WILL PATROL IN PAIRS. THE PERIMETER FENCE IS 17 FEET HIGH TOPPED WITH FOUR ROLLS OF BARBED WIRE. THERE IS AN EIGHT FEET STEEL PLATE BARRIER AT THE BASE OF THE FENCE."
/MR NEWTON
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
10
MR NEWTON SAID ALL WATER AT THE CENTRE WOULD BE FILTERED THROUGH A COMPLEX AND ADVANCED WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM BEFORE BEING RETURNED TO THE SEA.
POLICE AT THE CENTRE WOULD BE WELL ACCOMMODATED. THERE WERE EXCELLENT LEISURE FACILITIES. A LARGE DINING ROOM AND A GOOD KITCHEN. LOCKERS AND CHANGING ROOMS HAD BEEN PROVIDED AND CARE HAD BEEN GIVEN TO COMMUNICATIONS.
MR NEWTON COMMENTED: "POLICE OFFICERS ARE NOT TRAINED AS CORRECTIONAL SERVICES PERSONNEL BUT WE HAVE ADAPTED SOME PROCEDURES TO FIT IN WITH POLICE PRACTICE AND PROCEDURES WHICH OUR OFFICERS WILL FIND FAMILIAR.
"AT HIGH ISLAND WE HAVE ALSO BEEN IN A POSITION TO PLAN AHEAD AND MAKE NECESSARY ARRANGEMENTS. POLICE HEADQUARTERS HAS FOUGHT HARD TO GET WHAT WE NEED. ARTHUR LUKE OF THE FORCE WELFARE BRANCH CATERING UNIT HAS DONE A MARVELLOUS JOB AND COMMUNICATIONS BRANCH CAME UP WITH ANSWERS TO COMMUNICATIONS PROBLEMS VERY QUICKLY.
"ALL THE JUNIOR POLICE OFFICERS AT HIGH ISLAND ARE VOLUNTEERS."
-------0---------
FIGHTING VICE ACTIVITIES IN WAN CHAI »*»»»*
SWIFT ACTION BY OFFICERS OF THE POLICE WAN CHAI SPECIAL DUTIES SQUAD HAS SMASHED THE DISTRIBUTION OF 45,000 COPIES OF OBSCENE COMICS TO THE LOCAL MARKET. HAD THEY REACHED SALES OUTLETS THEY WOULD HAVE SOLD FOR HALF A MILLION DOLLARS.
THE COMICS WERE SEIZED IN A RAID ON A CHAI WAN BOOKBINDER EARLY LAST MONTH, FOLLOWING A TIPOFF TO THE POLICE BY THE TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY.
"WE TOOK IMMEDIATE ACTION," SAID INSPECTOR ALEC GORE, WHO COMMANDED THE OPERATION. "THREE NEWSPAPER SELLERS IN WAN CHAT WERE ARRESTED FOR SELLING PORNOGRAPHIC BOOKS.
"WE ALSO RAIDED A NEWSPAPER WHOLESALER IN MONG KOK AND SEIZED 950 OBSCENE COMIC BOOKS.
"THREE MEN AND A WOMAN WERE ARRESTED AND WERE FINED FROM $3,000 TO $4,000 IN COURT.
"FINALLY WE FOUND THE PRINTING COMPANY AND PUBLISHER AND SEIZED 45.0U0 OBSCENE COMICS AT A BOOKBINDER’S PREMISES IN CHAI WAN."
WAN CHAI DISTRICT OPERATION OFFICER CHIEF INSPECTOR PHILIP FRASER COMMENTED: "THE SERIOUSNESS OF THE CASE IS THAT THE OBSCENE COMIC BOOKS WERE DISPLAYED AMONG OTHER PUBLICATIONS WHICH COULD EASILY BE REACHED BY CHILDREN.
/"THE SEIZURE
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
11
"THE SEIZURE WAS A BIG ATTACK ON VICE ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT BUT WAN CHAI IS IN FACT MUCH QUIETER THAN IN THE OLD DAYS. PORNOGRAPHIC ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN SWEPT OUT TN YEARS OF SUCCESSFUL EFFORTS BY POLICE."
MR FRASER SAID ANOTHER REASON FOR THE DECLINE OF VICE IN WAN CHAI WAS THE STEADY MODERNISATION OF THE AREA AND THE GROWTH OF COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND BUSINESS ACTIVITY.
"THERE ARE NO PROBLEMS AT PRESENT WITH FISHBALL STALLS AND ONE WOMAN BROTHELS. DURING MY PREVIOUS ATTACHMENT TO WAN CHAI IN 1982 THERE WERE ABOUT 30 FISHBALL STALLS BUT WHEN I RETURNED THIS YEAR THERE WAS NO SIGHT OF THEM.
"THE LAST ONE IS BELIEVED TO HAVE CLOSED ABOUT TWO YEARS AGO.
"THERE ARE ABOUT 20 KNOWN ONE WOMAN BROTHELS AT PRESENT BUT THEY DO NOT CAUSE SERIOUS TROUBLE.
"ABOUT 85 APARTMENT HOUSES OPERATE IN WAN CHAI AND HAPPY VALLEY AND THEY ARE KEPT UNDER OUR SURVEILLANCE. WE MADE SOM: SUCCESSFUL PROSECUTION FOR VICE ACTIVITIES EARLY THIS YEAR."
MR FRASER SAID ACTION HAD BEEN TAKEN RECENTLY AGAINST TWO VIDEO SHOPS SELLING PORNOGRAPHIC TAPES IN HENNESSY ROAD.
"FIVE SUCCESSFUL RAIDS ON THESE ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN MADE IN THE LAST THREE MONTHS AND WE ARE AWARE THAT ONE ESTABLISHMENT HAS CLOSED DOWN.
"FIGHTING VICE DOES NOT OCCUPY MUCH OF OUR TIME IN WAN CHAI THESE DAYS. THE FOCUS OF OUR COMBAT IS WITH DANGEROUS DRUGS AND GAMBLING."
------0-------
ANTI-JUVENILE CRIMES COMIC BOOKLET PUBLISHED * * * * *
A NEW COMIC BOOKLET CARRYING ANTI-JUVENILE CRIMES MESSAGES WILL BE FREELY AVAILABLE TO YOUNG READERS FROM TOMORROW (MONDAY).
THE 32-PAGE CHINESE COMIC BOOKLET, WHICH IS JOINTLY PUBLISHED BY THE POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS BRANCH AND THE DENON STUDIO, CONTAINS A STORY WHICH TELLS OF A POSITIVE APPROACH TO LIFE AND OF THE IMPORTANCE OF AVOIDING CRIMES.
A TOTAL OF 100,000 COPIES OF THE BOOKLET HAVE BEEN PRINTED. HALF OF THEM WILL BE DISTRIBUTED DIRECTLY TO FORM I STUDENTS BY POLICE SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICERS, AND THE REST WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC, ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS, AT ALL DISTRICT OFFICES AND DISTRICT POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS OFFICES.
COPIES WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE FOR LOAN AT THE VARIOUS PUBLIC LIBRARIES.
-----0----------
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 5. 1989
- 12
SHOP PROPRIETORS URGED TO CONTRIBUTE TO ROAD SAFETY *****
SHOP PROPRIETORS HAVE BEEN URGED TO KEEP PUBLIC FOOTWAYS CLEAR FOR THE SAFETY OF PEDESTRIANS.
THE PLEA WAS MADE TODAY (SUNDAY) BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER. MR CHRIS WAN. AT THE OPENING OF THE DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN CARNIVAL AT THE HONG NING ROAD PLAYGROUND.
MR WAN SAID OBSTRUCTION OF PAVEMENTS BY GOODS WOULD FORCE PEDESTRIANS TO WALK ON ROADS.
"THIS WOULD INCREASE THE DANGER OF PEDESTRIANS BEING KNOCKED DOWN BY VEHICLES.” HE ADDED.
HE POINTED OUT THAT IN THE PAST FEW MONTHS, THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE HAD LAUNCHED A FOOTWAY CLEARANCE CAMPAIGN TO PROSECUTE OFFENDERS FOLLOWING A PERIOD OF EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY.
"A PERFECT TRAFFIC NETWORK ALONE WOULD NOT HELP REDUCE THE NUMBER OF TRAFFIC MISHAPS. WITHOUT THE FULL CO-OPERATION OF RESIDENTS." HE SAID.
TURNING TO ROAD CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN THE DISTRICT, MR WAN SAID THERE WOULD BE AN EASILY ACCESSIBLE TRAFFIC SYSTEM IN KWUN TONG FOLLOWING THE OPENING OF TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL AND THE TSEUNG KWAN O VIADUCT.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN CARNIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MR SETO CHAK, ALSO CALLED ON BOTH MOTORISTS AND PEDESTRIANS TO ATTACH MORE IMPORTANCE TO ROAD SAFETY.
ALSO ATTENDING THE CEREMONY TODAY WERE THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM HANG-FAT: KWUN TONG DISTRICT COMMANDER OF POLICE. MR A.W. H1GGINBOTTOM: SAU MAU PING DISTRICT COMMANDER OF POLICE, MR A.J. FERRIGE; AND POLICE TRAFFIC SENIOR STAFF OFFICER, MR I.P. PEGGS.
DURING THE CARNIVAL, MORE THAN 3,000 LOCAL RESIDENTS TOOK PART IN A VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES AIMED AT PROMOTING THEIR AWARENESS OF ROAD SAFETY.
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/13........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 13 -
BUILDING MANAGEMENT SEMINAR FOR SHAM SHUI PO RESIDENTS
*****
A SEMINAR ON BUILDING MANAGEMENT WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 11) FOR OFFICE BEARERS OF MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS AS WELL AS RESIDENTS IN THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT.
ORGANISED BY THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT PRIVATE BUILDING MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND SPONSORED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD, THE SEMINAR AIMS AT INCREASING RESIDENTS’ UNDERSTANDING OF THE VARIOUS ASPECTS OF BUILDING MANAGEMENT.
SPEAKERS AT THE SEMINAR WILL BE LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR MR CHUNG PUI-LAM; GOVERNMENT BUILDING SURVEYOR OF THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE? MR CHENG WAI-TAT; INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION OFFICER, MR YUNG CHI-LEUNG; AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ROYAL INSTITUTE OF HOUSING MANAGERS (HONG KONG BRANCH). MR MOK CHI-HUNG.
TOPICS TO BE COVERED ARE THE WORK AND PROGRESS OF THE PRIVATE BUILDING MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE. REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE OF BUILDINGS, CONTROL OF UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS, RESIDENTS’ PARTICIPATION IN BUILDING MANAGEMENT AND THE PREVENTION OF BRIBERY.
THERE WILL ALSO BE A QUESTION-AND-ANSWER SESSION.
AN EXHIBITION ON BUILDING MANAGEMENT FACILITIES AND PROBLEMS WILL BE HELD AT THE VENUE OF THE SEMINAR.
THE SEMINAR WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM AT THE GRAND TOWER HOTEL IN MONG KOK. ADMISSION IS FREE. TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 3-7294919 OR 3-7294874.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SHAM SHUI PO PRIVATE BUILDING MANAGEMENT SEMINAR TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 11) AT THE GRAND TOWER HOTEL, SIXTH FLOOR, 627-641 NATHAN ROAD.
THE SEMINAR WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 5,
1989
TSUEN WAN DB TO DISCUSS POLICY ADDRESS ♦ ♦ * *
THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS AT ITS MEETING ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 7).
MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE SITE SEARCH REPORT ON THE PROPOSED GAS TURBINE PLANT TO BE BUILT ON NORTHEASTERN LANTAU.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE REPORTS ON THE WORK OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND OF VARIOUS DISTRICT BOARD COMMITTEES.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
' YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD MEETING TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 7) IN THE MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, SECOND FLOOR. TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, TSUEN WAN.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
- - 0 - -
DB COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS
*****
THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE WILL CONSIDER A NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS FOR DB FUNDS FROM LOCAL ORGANISATIONS FOR CARRYING OUT COMMUNITY BUILDING PROJECTS AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (MONDAY).
ALSO ON THE AGENDA IS THE PROPOSED RE-APPORTIONMENT OF DB FUNDS SET ASIDE FOR DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF COMMUNITY BUILDING PROJECTS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (MONDAY) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM, SECOND FLOOR, MEI FUNG COURT, NAM NING STREET, ABERDEEN CENTRE. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
PLEASE NOTE THAT CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS FOR DB FUNDS, IN THE LATTER PART OF THE MEETING, WILL BE IN CAMERA.
- - 0 - -
/15
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 15 -
1990-91 DB BUDGET ON COMMITTEE AGENDA * * * * *
THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD'S FINANCE AND GENERAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS THE PROPOSED EXPENDITURE HEADS AND TENTATIVE CEILINGS FOR THE NEXT FINANCIAL YEAR AT ITS MEETING ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 7).
THE COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS AN EARLIER APPLICATION TO THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION FOR $4.23 MILLION AS FUNDING FOR THE BOARD FOR 1990-91.
THE CURRENT ANNUAL SUBSIDIES OF $100,000 EACH FOR THE SHA TIN ARTS AND SPORTS ASSOCIATIONS ON ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES WILL BE REVIEWED.
THE MEETING WILL ALSO CONSIDER APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS TOTALLING $390,000 FOR CONSTRUCTING A TAXI SHELTER AT TAI WAI KCR STATION AND PROVIDING A RAIN SHELTER, ARBOURS AND PLAY EQUIPMENT AT WONG NAI TAU.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD'S FINANCE AND GENERAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 7) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM ON THE SIXTH FLOOR, KCR HOUSE, SHA TIN STATION. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.15 PM.
----0 -----
SHA TIN DB INVITES FUND APPLICATIONS
*****
THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD IS INVITING APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS FOR ORGANISING CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT.
THESE ACTIVITIES SHOULD AIM AT FOSTERING COMMUNITY SPIRIT AND A SENSE OF BELONGING AMONG RESIDENTS.
ALL APPLICATIONS SHOULD REACH THE DISTRICT BOARD SECRETARIAT ON THE SIXTH FLOOR, KCR HOUSE. SHA TIN STATION ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 8. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ENTERTAINED.
ORGANISATIONS APPLYING FOR FUNDS FOR THE FIRST TIME SHOULD ALSO SEND A COPY OF THEIR LATEST ANNUAL REPORT AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON ITS FINANCIAL RESOURCES, MEMBERSHIP, NATURE OF ACTIVITIES AND TARGET GROUPS THEY SERVE.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE DIRECTED TO MRS SO OR MRS TSANG ON TEL. 0-6048078, EXT. 451.
----O------
/16........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
16
75 NEW BUILDING PLANS APPROVED IN AUGUST » » » * *
THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE APPROVED A TOTAL OF 75 NEW BUILDING PLANS IN AUGUST.
OF THE PLANS, 37 WERE FOR HONG KONG ISLAND, 13 WERE FOR KOWLOON AND 25 WERE FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE APPROVED PLANS INCLUDED 26 FOR APARTMENT, APARTMENT/COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS; 22 FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND EIGHT FOR FACTORY. INDUSTRIAL OR GODOWN PURPOSES.
DURING THE MONTH, THE OFFICE GAVE CONSENT FOR WORK TO START ON 33 PROJECTS, INVOLVING 49,906.9 SQUARE METRES OF USABLE DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA AND 157,882 SQUARE METRES OF USABLE NON-DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA.
THE TOTAL DECLARED COST OF NEW BUILDINGS COMPLETED DURING THE MONTH WAS ABOUT $1,135 MILLION. USABLE FLOOR AREAS FOR DOMESTIC AND NON-DOMESTIC USES WERE ABOUT 58,976.7 SQUARE METRES AND ABOUT 274,034.7 SQUARE METRES RESPECTIVELY.
ALSO DURING THE MONTH, THE OFFICE ISSUED 51 OCCUPATION PERMITS: 11 FOR HONG KONG ISLAND. SEVEN FOR KOWLOON AND 33 FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES.
IN ADDITION, THE OFFICE ISSUED 43 DEMOLITION CONSENTS AFFECTING 67 BUILDINGS.
THE CONTROL AND ENFORCEMENT DIVISION RECEIVED 693 COMPLAINTS ON ILLEGAL BUILDING WORKS, CARRIED OUT 787 INSPECTIONS AND ISSUED 231 REMOVAL ORDERS.
THE DANGEROUS BUILDING SECTION INSPECTED 429 BUILDINGS. NO EMERGENCY CLOSURES WERE REQUIRED.
- - 0
IMPROVEMENT WORKS TO TAI WAN PUMPING STATION ♦ ♦ ♦ * t
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR IMPROVEMENT WORKS TO THE TAI WAN SALT WATER PUMPING STATION.
THE PROJECT WILL INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A TWO-STOREY BLOCK AS AN EXTENSION TO THE EXISTING STATION AND REPLACEMENT OF A TOTAL OF 90 METRES OF ASSOCIATED WATERMAINS AT WAN HOI STREET, HUNG HOM.
/OTHER IMPROVEMENT
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 17 -
OTHER IMPROVEMENT WORKS WILL INCLUDE THE REPLACEMENT OF DIESEL PUMPS BY ELECTRIC PUMPS AND THE INSTALLATION OF AN ELECTRO-CHLORINATOR IN THE PUMPING STATION,
WORK IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN FEBRUARY NEXT YEAR AND WILL TAKE ABOUT 18 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF TENDERS IS NOON ON NOVEMBER 24.
- - 0 ---------
ANTI-DRUG SYMBOL DESIGN COMPETITION CALLS FOR EARLY SUBMISSIONS *******
RESIDENTS WITH ARTISTIC AND CREATIVE FLAIRS ARE TODAY (SUNDAY) REMINDED TO SUBMIT THEIR ENTRIES TO THE ANTI-DRUG SYMBOL DESIGN COMPETITION BEFORE ITS DEADLINE ON NOVEMBER 15.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE NARCOTICS DIVISION OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT SAID: "THE COMPETITION HAS SO FAR RECEIVED ABOUT 80 ENTRIES AND WE EXPECT MORE TO COME IN NEARER THE DATE."
ORGANISED BY THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS (ACAN) WITH THE SUPPORT AND A CONTRIBUTION OF SI00,000 FROM THE ORIENTAL DAILY NEWS. THE COMPETITION IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AIMING TO FIND AN ORIGINAL SYMBOL TO COMMEMORATE ACAN'S SILVER JUBILEE NEXT YEAR.
"THIS IS THE FIRST ANTI-NARCOTICS PUBLICITY EVENT TO BE SUPPORTED BY PRIVATE SPONSORSHIP," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"SUBJECT TO THE FINAL DECISION OF THE ORGANISERS, THE WINNING ANTI-DRUG SYMBOL WILL BE USED ON VARIOUS SOUVENIR ITEMS FOR FREE DISTRIBUTION NEXT YEAR," HE ADDED.
ALL ENTRIES MUST BE AN ORIGINAL DESIGN AND SHOULD NOT BE AN IMITATION OF ANY REGISTERED LOGOS.
COMPETING DESIGNS, MEASURING 25 CM BY 25 CM EACH, CAN BE IN ONfi OR TWO COLOURS AND SHOULD BE DRAWN ON A WHITE DRAWING PAPER.
THE ADJUDICATORS INCLUDE DESIGNER MR NICHOLAS TSUI; THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION SERVICES, MR PETER MOSS; THE COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, MR DAVID WEEKS; AND A REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE ORIENTAL DAILY NEWS.
IN ADDITION TO A TROPHY, CASH COUPONS OF $5,000, $3,000 AND $2,000 WILL BE AWARDED TO THE TOP THREE WINNERS OF THE COMPETITION RESPECTIVELY.
/ALL ENTRIES
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
18 -
ALL ENTRIES MUST REACH THE NARCOTICS DIVISION AT 23RD FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES. CENTRAL, BY NOVEMBER 15. RESULTS OF THE COMPETITION WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON NOVEMBER 30.
ENTRY FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT ALL DISTRICT OFFICES, THEIR SUB-OFFICES AND THE NARCOTICS DIVISION.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 5-8672761.
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MUSIC OFFICE HOLDS YOUTH STRING MUSIC FESTIVAL * * t t *
THE 1989 HONG KONG YOUTH STRING MUSIC FESTIVAL. ORGANISED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE, WILL START NEXT SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12).
THERE WILL BE THREE CONCERTS DURING THE EIGHT-DAY FESTIVAL. CLASSICAL COMPOSITIONS BY HANDEL, BACH,MOZART, MENDELSSOHN, TSCHAIKOVSKY AND OTHERS WILL BE PERFORMED BY LOCAL YOUNG MUSICIANS.
IN ADDITION. A SERIES OF MASTERCLASSES AND LECTURES WILL BE CONDUCTED AT THE MUSIC OFFICE’S MUSIC CENTRES.
THE FESTIVAL WILL OPEN ON NOVEMBER 12 WITH AN INTERFLOW CONCERT AT THE CITY HALL CONCERT HALL WITH PERFORMANCES BY THE DISTRICT STRING ORCHESTRAS OF THE MUSIC OFFICE AND FOUR SCHOOL ORCHESTRAS. IT WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.
A CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT WITH PERFORMANCES BY ELITE TRAINEES OF THE MUSIC OFFICE WILL BE HELD AT THE DRAMA THEATRE OF THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS ON NOVEMBER 18. IT WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM.
THE CLIMAX OF THE FESTIVAL WILL BE THE FESTIVAL CONCERT TO BE HELD AT THE SHA TIN TOWN HALL ON NOVEMBER 19. ALSO BEGINNING AT 8 PM.
STAMITZ’S "CONCERTO IN D MAJOR". SAINT SAENS’S "CONCERTO IN B MINOR NO. 3" AND MOZART’S "SINFONIA CONCERTANTE FOR VIOLIN, VIOLA AND ORCHESTRA IN E FLAT MAJOR. K364" WILL BE PRESENTED BY TWO WORLD-KNOWN MUSICIANS, MR IVAN CHAN AND MS XIAO HONGMEI, AND THE COMBINED ORCHESTRA OF HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND MUSIC OFFICE INSTRUCTORS’ ORCHESTRA (WESTERN).
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR MR EDWARD HO WILL OFFICIATE AT THE FESTIVAL CONCERT. THE FESTIVAL IS SPONSORED BY YUET WAH MUSIC COMPANY.
TICKETS FOR THE CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT AND THE FESTIVAL CONCERT AT $10 AND $20 EACH ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT ALL URBTIX OUTLETS. THE INTERFLOW CONCERT IS NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL. 5-283257.
0
/19........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 19 -
WATER CUTS IN THREE AREAS ♦ ♦ * *
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO ALL PREMISES IN TUEN MUN WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 9.30 AM TO 5 PM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 7) FOR WATER WORKS.
ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 8), SALT WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN KWUN TONG WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 9 AM TO 8 PM FOR CONNECTION OF WATER MAINS.
THE AREA AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY KWUN TONG INDUSTRIAL AREA, NGAU TAU KOK, JORDAN VALLEY, KOWLOON BAY, CHOI HUNG, PING SHEK, NGAU CHI WAN AND SAN PO KONG INDUSTRIAL AREA.
ALSO ON WEDNESDAY, FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN SHAM SHUI PO WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 11 PM TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY FOR A NIGHT LEAKAGE TEST.
THE AREA AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY CHEUNG SHA WAN ROAD, POPLAR STREET, TAI PO ROAD, SHEK KIP MEI STREET, FUK WING STREET, WONG CHUK STREET AND MAPLE STREET.
-----0-----
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR ROYAL VISIT
******
SPECIAL TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE VISIT OF THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES TO HONG KONG FROM NOVEMBER 7 TO 13.
I. SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS
HONG KONG ISLAND
A. TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF ROADS ON NOVEMBER 7 (TUESDAY)
(A) FROM NOON TO 8 PM. THE QUEEN’S PIER AREA INCLUDING EDINBURGH PLACE EAST AND NORTH WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL VEHICULAR TRAFFIC. EXCEPT VEHICLES REQUIRING ACCESS TO HMS TAMAR.
(B) FROM 2 PM TO 8 PM, JACKSON ROAD (BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL AND CHATER ROAD) WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL VEHICULAR TRAFFIC. TRAFFIC FROM LAMBETH WALK WILL BE DIVERTED VIA MURRAY ROAD SOUTHBOUND, EXCEPT FOR ACCESS TO THE FURAMA HOTEL.
/(C) FROM
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 20 -
(C) FROM 6 PM TO 8 PM, BANK STREET BETWEEN DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL AND QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL.
B. TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF ROAD ON NOVEMBER 8 (WEDNESDAY)
FROM 9 AM TO 4 PM, THE SLIP ROAD BETWEEN UPPER ALBERT ROAD AND LOWER ALBERT ROAD WILL BR CLOSED TO ALL VEHICULAR TRAFFIC.
C. TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF ROADS ON NOVEMBER 10 (FRIDAY)
(A) FROM 8 AM TO NOON, THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS OF ROADS WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL VEHICULAR TRAFFIC:
* DES VOEUX ROAD WEST BETWEEN WILMER STREET AND CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL;
♦ DES VOEUX ROAD WEST EASTBOUND BETWEEN CENTRE STREET AND WILMER STREET:
♦ SUTHERLAND STREET BETWEEN DES VOEUX ROAD WEST AND • CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST:
* QUEEN STREET BETWEEN DES VOEUX ROAD WEST AND CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST: AND
(B) FROM 0.01 AM TO NOON, BONHAM STRAND WEST BETWEEN BONHAM STRAND AND DES VOEUX ROAD WEST WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC.
D. TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE FROM NOVEMBER 7 (TUESDAY) TO NOVEMBER 13 (MONDAY)
FROM 2 PM ON NOVEMBER 7 UNTIL 11.59 PM ON NOVEMBER 13, THE UNNAMED SERVICE ROAD BETWEEN FENWICK PIER STREET AND THE EAST GATE OF HMS TAMAR WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL VEHICULAR TRAFFIC, EXCEPT FOR ACCESS TO HMS TAMAR AND THE FENWICK STREET HELIPAD.
E. TRAFFIC REROUTEINGS ON NOVEMBER 10 (FRIDAY)
FROM 8 AM TO NOON. THE FOLLOWING TRAFFIC REROUTEINGS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED:
♦ THE SOUTHERN CARRIAGEWAY OF CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH DES VOEUX ROAD WEST TO EASTERN STREET WILL BE REROUTED ONE-WAY WESTBOUND;
* WILMER STREET WILL BE REROUTED ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND;
/♦ TRAFFIC Oi4
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 21
» TRAFFIC ON CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL WESTBOUND HEADING FOR DES VOEUX ROAD WEST WILL BE REROUTED VIA CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST AND WILMER STREET OR EASTERN STREET;
* TRAFFIC ON DES VOEUX ROAD WEST EASTBOUND WILL BE REROUTED VIA CENTRE STREET AND CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST TO REJOIN CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL: AND
* BONHAM STRAND WILL BE REROUTED ONE-WAY EASTBOUND FROM CLEVERLY STREET TO QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL. TRAFFIC ON CLEVERLY STREET AND ON MORRISON STREET NORTHBOUND WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO TURN LEFT ONTO BONHAM STRAND TO PROCEED WESTWARDS.
F. SUSPENSION OF PARKING SPACES
PARING SPACES AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS WILL BE SUSPENDED ACCORDING TO THE TIMES SPECIFIED BELOW:
(A) ON NOVEMBER 7 (TUESDAY! FROM 0.01 AM TO 8 PM
(I) ALL PARKING SPACES IN CONNAUGHT PLACE.
(Ill ALL PARKING SPACES ON JACKSON ROAD.
(B) ON NOVEMBER 8 (WEDNESDAY) FROM 0.01 AM TO 4 PM
ALL PARKING SPACES ON THE SLIP ROAD BETWEEN UPPER ALBERT ROAD AND LOWER ALBERT ROAD.
(C) ON NOVEMBER 10 (FRIDAY) FROM 0.01 AM TO NOON
ALL PARKING SPACES ON BONHAM STRAND.
G. SUSPENSION OF PUBLIC LIGHT BUS (SCHEDULED) SERVICE STANDS
ON NOVEMBER 7 (TUESDAY) FROM NOON TO 8 PM, THE PUBLIC LIGHT BUS (SCHEDULED) SERVICE TERMINUS IN EDINBURGH PLACE EAST FOR ROUTES 1. 2, 3 AND 3A WILL BE SUSPENDED. MINIBUSES WILL START FROM THE NORTH SIDE OF CONNAUGHT PLACE OUTSIDE THE GENERAL POST OFFICE.
ON NOVEMBER 9 (THURSDAY) FROM NOON TO 1 PM, THE PUBLIC LIGHT BUS (SCHEDULED) SERVICE TERMINUS FOR ROUTE 6 AT OCEAN PARK PUBLIC TRANSPORT TERMINUS WILL BE SUSPENDED. MINIBUSES ON THIS ROUTE WILL START AND FINISH THEIR JOURNEYS OUTSIDE THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO OCEAN PARK.
/H.
SUSPDiSION OF
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 22
H. SUSPENSION OF PUBLIC LIGHT BUS STAND
ON NOVEMBER 9 (THURSDAY) FROM NOON TO 1 PM, THE PUBLIC LIGHT BUS STAND AT OCEAN PARK PUBLIC TRANSPORT TERMINUS WILL BE SUSPENDED.
I. SUSPENSION OF TAXI STANDS
ON NOVEMBER 9 (THURSDAY) FROM 8 AM TO NOON, THE TAXI STAND AT WAN CHAI FERRY PIER TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE WILL BE SUSPENDED.
ON NOVEMBER 9 (THURSDAY) FROM NOON TO 1 PM, THE TAXI STAND AT OCEAN PARK PUBLIC TRANSPORT TERMINUS WILL BE SUSPENDED.
r .
J. TEMPORARY RESTRICTED AREAS
ON NOVEMBER 10 (FRIDAY) FROM 8 AM TO NOON, THE FOLLOWING ROADS WILL BE TEMPORARILY DESIGNATED AS RESTRICTED AREAS:
* CLEVERLY STREET BETWEEN DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL AND QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL;
* BONHAM STRAND;
♦ BONHAM STRAND WEST;
♦ MORRISON STREET;
* HILLIER STREET;
* MERCER STREET;
* JERVOIS STREET;
» DES VOEUX ROAD WEST WESTBOUND BETWEEN KO SHING STREET AND NO. 134A DES VOEUX ROAD WEST:
♦ WILMER STREET;
♦ EASTERN STREET;
* CENTRE STREET;
» WING LOK STREET BETWEEN BONHAM STRAND AND DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL.
/KOWLOON ........
• 4
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5. 1989
- 23 -
KOWLOON
TEMPORARY AND LOCALISED TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL INTRODUCED BY POLICE OFFICERS ON SITE AS THE ROYAL MOTORCADE PASSES EN ROUTE TO VARIOUS VISITS IN KOWLOON. THESE TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS MAY INCLUDE CLOSURES OF SECTIONS OF ROADS, THE BANNING OF TURNING MOVEMENTS AND STOPPING PROHIBITIONS.
THESE ARRANGEMENTS WOULD GENERALLY BE INTRODUCED SHORTLY BEFORE THE APPROACH OF THE ROYAL MOTORCADE AND WOULD BE RESCINDED AS SOON AS IT HAS PASSED THROUGH THE AREA CONCERNED.
MOTORISTS ARE REQUESTED TO DRIVE WITH CARE AND PATIENCE.
NEW TERRITORIES
FROM 3.30 PM TO 4.30 PM ON NOVEMBER 9 (THURSDAY), THE ACCESS ROAD TO SHU1 TAU/SHUI MEI/KAM HING WAI/KAM TIN SHI VILLAGES FROM KAM TIN ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL VEHICULAR TRAFFIC.
II. PUBLIC TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
(1) CMB BUS SERVICES
A. BUS ROUTE DIVERSIONS
(A) ON NOVEMBER 7 (TUESDAY)
(1) FROM THE FIRST BUS DEPARTURE UNTIL 8 PM, BUSES ON CMB ROUTE 13 TRAVELLING TOWARDS CENTRAL WILL BE DIVERTED VIA PEDDER STREET TO TERMINATE AT CENTRAL BUS STATION (EXCHANGE SQUARE). AT THE SAME TIME, BUSES ON ROUTES 15, 260 AND 262 WILL OMIT
EDINBURGH PLACE ON EASTBOUND JOURNEYS.
(II) FROM 2 PM TO 8 PM, BUSES ON CMB ROUTES 721 AND 722 TRAVELLING TOWARDS CENTRAL WILL BE DIVERTED VIA QUEENSWAY, QUEEN'S ROAD CENTRAL AND PEDDER STREET.
(B) ON NOVEMBER 9 (THURSDAY) FROM NOON TO 1 PM
BUSES ON CMB ROUTE 48 WILL OMIT JOURNEYS TO OCEAN PARK. AND WILL TERMINATE AT WONG CHUK HANG BUS TERMINUS.
/(C) ON NOVEMBER ........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5. 1?89
24
(C) ON NOVEMBER 10 (FRIDAY) FROM 8 AM TO NOON
(I) BUSES ON CMB ROUTES 3A, 4, 5, 5A, 5B. 7, 10,
18, 37, 47, 71, 79M AND CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL ROUTES 101, 104. 105 AND 113 TRAVELLING
EASTBOUND ON DES VOEUX ROAD WEST WILL BE DIVERTED VIA CENTRE STREET AND CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST, AND RESUME THEIR NORMAL ROUTEINGS ON CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL.
(II) BUSES ON CMB ROUTES 5A, 5B, 18 AND- CROSS
HARBOUR TUNNEL ROUTE 113 TRAVELLING WESTBOUND ON CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL WILL BE DIVERTED VIA CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST AND EASTERN STREET TO REJOIN DES VOEUX ROAD WEST WESTBOUND.
(Ill) BUSES ON CMB ROUTE 26 TRAVELLING TOWARDS HOLLYWOOD ROAD WILL BE DIVERTED VIA DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL, QUEEN VICTORIA STREET AND QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL TO REJOIN QUEEN'S ROAD WEST.
(IV) BUSES ON CMB ROUTE 47 ON JOURNEYS TO WAH FU WILL BE DIVERTED VIA CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL, POTTINGER STREET AND QUEEN'S ROAD CENTRAL TO REJOIN QUEEN’S ROAD WEST.
B. SUSPENSION OF BUS STOPS
BUS STOPS AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS WILL BE SUSPENDED ACCORDING TO THE TIMES SPECIFIED:
(A) ON NOVEMBER 7 (TUESDAY)
(I) FROM 9 AM TO 8 PM, THE BUS STOPS ON EDINBURGH PLACE (CENTRAL) OUTSIDE CITY HALL.
(II) FROM 5 PM TO 8 PM, THE BUS STOPS SERVING BOTH DIRECTIONS ON DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL OUTSIDE AND OPPOSITE THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANK.
(B) ON NOVEMBER 8 (WEDNESDAY)
(I) FROM 8 AM TO 11 AM, THE EASTBOUND BUS STOPS ON HENNESSY ROAD OPPOSITE THE SOUTHORN CENTRE.
(II) FROM NOON TO 12.45 PM, THE WHSTBOUND BUS STOP ON HARCOURT ROAD OUTSIDE ADMIRALTY CENTRE.
/(C) ON NOVEMBER .........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1989
- 25 -
(C) ON NOVEMBER 9 (THURSDAY)
(I) FROM 8 AM TO 11.45 AM, THE EASTBOUND BUS STOP ON HARBOUR ROAD OUTSIDE THE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE.
(II) FROM NOON TO 1 PM, THE BUS STOP AT OCEAN PARK BUS TERMINUS OUTSIDE THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL.
(D) ON NOVEMBER 10 (FRIDAY)
(I) FROM 9 AM TO 11 AM, THE WESTBOUND STOP ON DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL OUTSIDE THE LANDMARK.
(II) FROM 8 AM TO NOON, THE WESTBOUND BUS STOPS ON DES VOEUX ROAD WEST NEAR KO SHING STREET AND OUTSIDE NO. 52 DES VOEUX ROAD WEST.
(Ill) FROM 8 AM TO NOON, THE EASTBOUND BUS STOPS OUTSIDE NOS. 49, 59 AND 139-141 DES VOEUX ROAD WEST.
(2) HONG KONG ISLAND PUBLIC LIGHT BUS (SCHEDULED) SERVICE
(A) ON NOVEMBER 7 (TUESDAY) FROM NOON TO 8 PM, GREEN MINIBUSES ON HONG KONG ISLAND PUBLIC LIGHT BUS SCHEDULED ROUTES 1, 2, 3 AND 3A HEADING TOWARDS CENTRAL WILL BE DIVERTED VIA PEDDER STREET, CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL AND CONNAUGHT PLACE TO TERMINATE AT A TEMPORARY PUBLIC LIGHT BUS (SCHEDULED) SERVICE STAND TO BE PROVIDED AT THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE OF CONNAUGHT PLACE OUTSIDE THE GENERAL POST OFFICE. FROM CONNAUGHT PLACE, GREEN MINIBUSES WILL BE DIVERTED VIA CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL AND HARCOURT ROAD BEFORE RESUMING THEIR NORMAL ROUTEINGS.
(B) ON NOVEMBER 7 (TUESDAY) FROM 2 PM TO 8 PM, GREEN MINIBUSES ON HONG KONG ISLAND PUBLIC LIGHT BUS (SCHEDULED) ROUTE 22 HEADING TOWARDS CENTRAL WILL BE DIVERTED VIA GARDEN ROAD. QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL. PEDDER STREET AND CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL EN ROUTE TO EDINBURGH PLACE.
/(?) HONGKONG TRAMWAYS’
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 198?
26
(3) HONGKONG TRAMWAYS* SERVICES
(A) PARTIAL SUSPENSION OF SERVICES
ON NOVEMBER 10 (FRIDAY) FROM 8 AM TO NOON, TRAM SERVICES BETWEEN WESTERN MAKET AND CENTRE STREET WILL BE TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED. THE EXACT DURATION OF THIS TEMPORARY SERVICE SUSPENSION WILL BE DECIDED BY THE POLICE ON THE SITE.
(B) SUSPENSION OF TRAM STOPS
(I) ON NOVEMBER 7 (TUESDAY) FROM 5 PM TO 8 PM, THE TRAM STOPS ON DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL SERVING BOTH DIRECTIONS OUTSIDE THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANK.
(II) ON NOVEMBER 10 (FRIDAY) FROM 10 AM TO 11 AM, THE TRAM STOPS ON DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL SERVING BOTH DIRECTIONS OUTSIDE LANDMARK.
(4) FERRY SERVICES
TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF CROSS-HARBOUR FERRY SERVICES
THE FOLLOWING FERRY SERVICES WILL BE TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED ON NOVEMBER 7 (TUESDAY) DURING THE PERIODS SPECIFIED:
(I) NORTH POINT TO KOWLOON CITY (PASSENGER AND VEHICULAR SERVICE) FROM 5.35 PM TO 5.55 PM.
(II) TSIM SHA TSUI EAST TO EDINBURGH PLACE FROM 6 PM TO 6.20 PM.
-----0 -----
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN TSIM SHA TSUI
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT TO FACILITATE ROAD RE-INSTATEMENT WORKS AT KIMBERLEY STREET, FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 7) THE SECTION OF KIMBERLEY STREET FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH CARNARVON ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 67 METRES EAST OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE CLOSED.
THE MEASURE WILL BE IN EFFECT FOR FOUR WEEKS.
THE REMAINING SECTION OF KIMBERLEY STREET BETWEEN CARNARVON ROAD AND SHUN YEE STREET WILL BE RE-ROUTED FOR TWO-WAY TRAFFIC FOR LOCAL ACCESS.
------0-------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LIGHTS GO ON FOR ROYAL VISITORS......1....................... 1
TV TO BROADCAST ROYAL ARRIVAL LIVE........................... 3
MORE DISCUSSIONS ON PUBLIC COMMENTS ON GREEN PAPER .......... 4
MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY CONTINUES TO BE SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTOR ................................................... 5
WORKING GROUP'S REPORT ON ELDERLY HOUSING PUBLISHED ......... 5
KWUN TONG FESTIVAL TO START ON NOVEMBER .19 ................. 8
KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL BEGINS THIS WEEKEND .............. 9
DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT ON AGENDA............................... 9
ACTIVITIES FOR NEW YEAR UNDER STUDY.......................... 10
DISCUSSION ON WAN CHAI TRAFFIC SCHEME........................ 10
SHEUNG SHUI THA FIRE ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA ................. 11
POLICING OF KWUN TONG DISTRICT............................... 11
COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR VISITS AIRLINE OFFICES .............. 1?
RELOCATION OF CHINESE VISITORS OFFICE ....................... 1?
WATER STORAGE FIGURE......................................... 12*
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR THEN MUN FIREWORKS DISPLAY ......... 1^
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1989
1
LIGHTS GO ON FOR ROYAL VISITORS » » » » »
THOSE LIGHTS FANTASTIC - LASERS - ARE JUST PART OF THE GLITTERING WELCOME PREPARED FOR THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES WHEN THEY ARRIVE IN HONG KONG TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE LASERS WILL LIGHT UP AN EXTRAVAGANZA OF DANCING AND DISPLAYS DY CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE IN EDINBURGH PLACE, WHERE THE OFFICIAL WELCOME FOR THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WILL TAKE PLACE.
STAGED BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG, THE YOUTH DISPLAY WILL BE AN INFORMAL CONTRAST TO THE POMP AND CEREMONY OF THE TRADITIONAL GUARD OF HONOUR WHICH WILL BE MOUNTED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT (THE VOLUNTEERS).
FOR THE ROYAL VISITORS THE EDINBURGH PLACE WELCOME WILL BE JUST THE FIRST ITEM IN A BUSY PROGRAMME THAT WILL TAKE THEM, TOGETHER AND SEPARATELY, TO VARIOUS LOCATIONS IN HONG KONG, KOWLOON, AND THE NEW TERRITORIES AND OUTLYING ISLANDS.
THEY WILL SEE ASPECTS OF HONG KONG LIFE FROM HOUSING ESTATES TO STATE-OF-THE-ART COMPUTER CENTRES. FROM FUTURE AND EXISTING TERTIARY EDUCATION CENTRES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE TO A CARE HOME FOR THE ELDERLY.
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES, WHO HAVE BEEN VISITING INDONESIA, WILL ARRIVE AT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ON BOARD A ROYAL AIR FORCE VC10 AT 5.30 PM.
ON THE AIRPORT TARMAC THEY WILL BE RECEIVED BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AND LADY WILSON.
FROM THE KAI TAK APRON THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WILL BE DRIVEN TO THE PROMONTORY PIER, HALF WAY DOWN THE KAI TAK RUNWAY, WHERE THEY WILL BOARD THE GOVERNOR’S LAUNCH, THE LADY MAURINE, FOR THE TRIP ACROSS THE HARBOUR TO QUEEN’S PIER.
A TOTAL OF 14 LAUNCHES WILL ACCOMPANY THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES ON THE HARBOUR CROSSING. THEY WILL BE LED BY THE MARINE POLICE’S HARBOUR DIVISION COMMAND LAUNCH, POLICE 79. ON BOARD, SUPERINTENDENT ROD COLSON WILL HAVE THE TASK OF ENSURING THAT VICTORIA HARBOUR IS KEPT CLEAR FOR THE ROYAL ESCORT.
POLICE 79 WILL
INFLATABLE BOATS FROM THE
BE FLANKED ON EACH SIDE MARINE POLICE’S SMALL BOAT
BY TYPHOON-TYPE UNIT.
FLANKING THE LADY MAURINE SHARKCATS, THE FASTEST VESSELS IN THE TYPHOON-TYPE INFLATABLES.
WILL BE TWO AUSTRALIAN-BUILT GOVERNMENT FLEET, AND TWO MORE
ASTERN OF THE LADY MAURINE WILL BE THE MARINE POLICE'S EASTERN DIVISION COMMAND LAUNCH, POLICE 3, CARRYING SUPERINTENDENT ROGER TRITTON WHO WILL CO-ORDINATE THE ROYAL ESCORT.
/ON ARRIVAI.........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1989
2 -
ON ARRIVAL AT QUEEN’S PIER, THE GOVERNOR WILL PRESENT TO THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES THE CHIEF JUSTICE, SIR TI-LIANG YANG; THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD. AND LADY FORD: THE COMMANDER BRITISH FORCES, MAJOR GENERAL PETER DUFFEL, AND MRS DUFFEL; SENIOR MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, DAME LYDIA DUNN, AND HER HUSBAND, MR MICHAEL THOMAS; SENIOR MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MR ALLEN LEE, AND MRS LEE; AND THE SECRETARY FOR THE ROYAL VISIT, MR PETER HARVEY.
THE PRINCE OF WALES WILL TAKE THE SALUTE FROM AND INSPECT A GUARD OF HONOUR MOUNTED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT (THE VOLUNTEERS).
COMMANDING THE GUARD OF HONOUR WILL BE CAPTAIN LAWRENCE CHAN KAH-WAI, 45, SECOND-IN-COMMAND OF THE REGIMENT’S D SQUADRON. CAPTAIN CHAN, A BUSINESSMAN IN CIVILIAN LIFE, JOINED THE VOLUNTEERS IN 1967 AND WAS COMMISSIONED IN 1982 AFTER TAKING A COURSE AT THE ROYAL MILITARY ACADEMY, SANDHURST.
HE WAS PROMOTED TO LIEUTENANT IN 1983 AND TO HIS PRESENT RANK IN 1986.
WHEN THE GUARD MARCHES OFF. EDINBURGH PLACE WILL BE TAKEN OVER BY THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WHO WILL PERFORM A LION DANCE AND A UNICORN DANCE.
PRINCE CHARLES WILL DOT THE LION’S EYES AND PRINCESS DIANA WILL PLACE TWO LUCKY FLOWERS ON THE LION’S HEAD.
THE OFFICIAL WELCOMING CEREMONY WILL END WITH A CHILDREN’S SPECTACULAR ORGANISED BY THE DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING, MISS CHEUNG MAN-YEE.
THIS WILL INCLUDE A GYMNASTIC DISPLAY BY 150 MEMBERS OF THE GOLDEN EAGLE GYMNASTIC TEAM WHICH PEREORMED DURING THE QUEEN’S VISIT IN 1986.
THE ROYAL VISITORS WILL ALSO SEE A TRADITIONAL CHINESE FAN DANCE BY 16 GIRLS FROM THE BISHOP HALL JUBILEE SCHOOL, A BALLET PERFORMANCE BY TWO SIX-YEAR-OLD STUDENTS FROM THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS, A FLORAL DANCE AND AN INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S PARADE.
\FTER THE CHILDREN’S SPECTACULAR. THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES WILL LEAVE BY CAR FOR THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANK HEADQUARTERS TN QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL.
THEY WILL HAVE A SPECTACULAR VIEW OF THE NIGHT LIGHTS OF THE TERRITORY FROM THE 1 Till LEVEL OF THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANK BUILDING AND MEET TOP BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS AT A RECEPTION.
ON THE 11ST LEVEL OF THE BANK, THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WILL ATTEND A RECEPTION FOR 100 GUESTS COMPRISING BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS.
/MELISSA HON
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1989
3
MELISSA HON, THE EIGHT-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER OF A BANK STAFF MEMBER, WILL PRESENT A POSY TO THE PRINCESS OF WALES.
AFTER THE BANK RECEPTION. THE ROYAL COUPLE WILL LEAVE FOR HMS TAMAR WHERE THEY WILL BOARD HER MAJESTY’S YACHT BRITANNIA.
THE BRITANNIA, WHICH, ESCORTED BY THE DESTROYER HMS NOTTINGHAM, ARRIVED IN HONG KONG YESTERDAY, WILL BE THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES' HOME DURING THEIR STAY IN HONG KONG.
LATER. IN THE EVENING. THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES WILL ENTERTAIN THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON AT A PRIVATE DINNER PARTY ON BOARD HMY BRITANNIA.
------0-------
TV TO BROADCAST ROYAL ARRIVAL LIVE
THE SPECTACULAR WELCOME FOR THE PRINCE AND WILL BE BROADCAST LIVE ON ALL TELEVISION CHANNELS EVENING.
PRINCESS TOMORROW
OF WALES (TUESDAY)
AT 5.29 PM. ATV'S HOME AND WORLD CHANNELS WILL SHOW THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES ARRIVING AT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FROM INDONESIA ON BOARD A ROYAL AIR FORCE VCIO.
AT 6.10 PM. TVB PEARL AND JADE CHANNELS WILL JOIN ATV TO SHOW THE LANDING OF THE ROYAL VISITORS AT QUEEN'S PIER, THE PRINCE OF WALES INSPECTING A GUARD OF HONOUR MOUNTED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT (THE VOLUNTEERS) AND A COLOURFUL DISPLAY. INCLUDING LION DANCES AND GYMNASTICS. BY CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE.
LATER IN THE EVENING A TELEVISION SPECIAL. ’HONG KONG GREETS THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES”. PRODUCED BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG, WILL BE BROADCAST BY BOTH COMMERCIAL NETWORKS.
THE 15-MINUTE SPECIAL WILL COVER THE ARRIVAL OF THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES AT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, THEIR TRIP ACROSS THE HARBOUR ON BOARD THE LADY MAUR1NE, AND THEIR OFFICIAL WELCOME AT EDINBURGH PLACE.
THE PROGRAMME WILL BE SHOWN ON ATV'S HOME CHANNEL AT 9.15 PM, ON ATV’S WORLD CHANNEL AT 9.55 PM AND ON TVB JADE AT 11.15 PM.
-----0------
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 6. 1989
MORE DISCUSSIONS ON PUBLIC COMMENTS ON GREEN PAPER ♦ * * t *
THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE TODAY (MONDAY) CONTINUED TO DISCUSS THE PUBLIC COMMENTS RELATING TO THE PROPOSED TRANSPORT STRATEGY OF EXPANDING AND IMPROVING PUBLIC TRANSPORT. AND MANAGING ROAD USE AS OUTLINED IN THE GREEN PAPER ON TRANSPORT POLICY.
MEMBERS NOTED THAT THERE WAS GENERAL AGREEMENT THAT THE MASS CARRIERS. SUCH AS RAIL AND BUSES, SHOULD FORM THE BACKBONE OF THE PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM. AND THAT MORE AND BETTER USE SHOULD BE MADE OF THE OFF-STREET MODES TO ALLEVIATE PRESSURE ON THE ROAD NETWORK.
THERE WAS ALSO A CLEAR CONSENSUS THAT THE QUALITY OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES SHOULD CONTINUE TO IMPROVE TO MEET RISING PUBLIC EXPECTATIONS FOR BETTER COMFORT AND SPEED. A COMMON VIEW WAS THAT TO ACHIEVE THIS. THE INTERMODAL CO-ORDINATION POLICY SHOULD ALLOW MORE COMPETITION BETWEEN MODES. AND INNOVATIVE SERVICES BE ENCOURAGED.
TAC LEARNED THAT THE NEED FOR MANAGING ROAD USE WAS WELL RECOGNISED. THERE WERE NO STRONG OBJECTIONS TO THE BROAD PRINCIPLES OF MAKING EFFECTIVE USE OF ROAD SPACE, GIVING PRIORITY TO MORE EFFICIENT AND ESSENTIAL ROAD USERS. AND MANAGING TRAVEL DEMAND TO A LEVEL WITH WHICH THE ROAD SYSTEM CAN COPE.
AS REGARDS EFFECTIVE USE OF ROAD SPACE, THERE WAS CONSIDERABLE SUPPORT FOR BETTER USE OF MODERN TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW. AND IMPROVEMENTS IN CROSSING FACILITIES TO SEGREGATE PEDESTRIANS FROM VEHICULAR TRAFFIC. THE PUBLIC HAD EXPRESSED A STRONG DESIRE FOR BETTER CO-ORDINATION AND SUPERVISION OF ROAD WORKS TO MINIMISE TRAFFIC DISRUPTIONS.
ANOTHER GENERAL CONSENSUS THE TAC HAD NOTED WAS THAT BUSES SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE GIVEN PRIORITY IN THE USE OF ROAD SPACE TO MAXIMISE THEIR EFFICIENT. SOME HAD CAUTIONED THAT GOVERNMENT SHOULD ENSURE ADEQUATE USE OF THE BUS LANES TO AVOID UNDER-UTILISATION.
REGARDING GOODS VEHICLES. THERE WAS GENERAL SUPPORT FOR MEASURES TO DISCOURAGE THE USE OF LIGHT GOODS VANS FOR PERSONAL TRANSPORT WITH RESERVATIONS ON THE USE OF TAXATION MEASURES TO MANAGE THE GROWTH AND USAGE OF LARGER GOODS VEHICLES.
A COMMON VIEW THE TAC MEMBERS NOTED WAS THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD EXAMINE MORE CLOSELY THE EFFECT OF SUCH MEASURES ON THE ECONOMY. AND OTHER OPTIONS SUCH AS ENCOURAGING MORE USE OF RAIL AND SEA FREIGHT TRANSPORT. GOODS DELIVERY OUTSIDE THE PEAK HOURS AND USE OF LARGER VEHICLES WITH EFFICIENT LOADING EQUIPMENT TO IMPROVE EFFICIENCY.
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MONDAY. NOVEMBER 6. 1989
- 5 -
MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY CONTINUES TO BE SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTOR » * * ♦ t t i
HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY. WITH THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILLS AND ADAPTABILITY OF INDUSTRIALISTS AND THE GENERAL INFRASTRUCTURAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL SUPPORT GIVEN BY THE GOVERNMENT. WILL CONTINUE TO BE A VERY SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTOR TO THE ECONOMY OF THE TERRITORY.
THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY. MR JOHN CHAN. SAID THIS AT THE OPENING OF THE SHA TIN NEW PLANT OF MOLEX NANCO LTD TODAY <MONDAY I.
MR CHAN SAID THE OPENING OF THE PLANT REFLECTED NOT ONLY THE COMPANY’S LONG TERM CONFIDENCE IN THE GROWTH POTENTIAL OF THE MARKETS. BUT ALSO IN THE FUTURE OF THE TERRITORY.
HE NOTED THAT THE FACTORY OPENED TODAY WAS A JOINT VENTURE BETWEEN THE WORLD'S SECOND LARGEST CONNECTOR MANUFACTURER AND THE LOCAL NANSHING COLOR AND CHEMICAL COMPANY.
"THIS NEW PLANT IN SHA TIN WILL COMBINE THE COMPANY’S EXISTING WIRE HARNESS AND SALES OPERATION WITH NEW FACILITIES SUCH AS OVERMOULDED CORDS PRODUCTION. UPGRADED PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT AND IMPROVED WAREHOUSE AND DELIVERY SYSTEMS.
"HONG KONG WELCOMES OVERSEAS INVESTMENT AND. IN PARTICULAR, JOINT VENTURE. WHICH CAN HELP TO UPGRADE HONG KONG’S TECHNOLOGICAL CAPABILITY TO MAKE IT MORE COMPETITIVE." HE ADDED.
MOLEX IS A MAJOR SUPPLIER OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC CONNECTORS TO MANUFACTURERS ENGAGED TN THE PRODUCTION OF ELECTRONIC AND COMPUTER PRODUCTS.
-------o---------
WORKING GROUP’S REPORT ON ELDERLY HOUSING PUBLISHED » » * * »
A REPORT FROM AN INTER-DEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP TO EXAMINE THE HOUSING NEEDS OF ELDERLY PERSONS HAS BEEN PUBLISHED AND IS NOW BEING DISTRIBUTED TO INTERESTED ORGANISATIONS FOR COMMENTS.
THE GROUP. WHICH WAS CO-CHAIRED BY THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE. MRS ELIZABETH WONG. AND THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF HOUSING, MR FUNG TUNG. WAS SET UP IN NOVEMBER 1988 ON THE ADVICE OF THE THEN MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY.
IN THE REPORT. THE GROUP CONCLUDED THAT ELDERLY PERSONS SHOULD BE HELPED TO REMAIN IN THE COMMUNITY WITH ADEQUATE SUPPORTIVE SERVICES.
/TO ACHIEVE .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6t 1989
- 6 -
TO ACHIEVE THIS. THE GROUP FELT THAT COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES SHOULD BE MADE MORE READILY AVAILABLE AND ELDERLY PERSONS SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED TO MAKE BETTER USE OF THEM.
THE GROUP ALSO FELT THAT PRIORITY SHOULD BE GIVEN TO EXPANDING ALL HOUSING SERVICES WHICH CATER SPECIFICALLY FOR THE NEEDS OF THE ABLE-BODIED ELDERLY AND THE TRANSITION FROM ONE FORM OF HOUSING TO ANOTHER SHOULD BE MADE AS SMOOTH AS POSSIBLE.
THE MAJOR RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE WORKING GROUP INCLUDE:
♦ A NEW APPLICATION SCHEME FOR FAMILIES WITH ELDERLY PERSONS SHOULD BE INTRODUCED. WHEREBY YOUNG FAMILIES WOULD BE ALLOWED TO APPLY WITH THEIR ELDERLY PARENTS OR DEPENDENTS FOR TWO SEPARATE FLATS IN THE SAME PUBLIC HOUSING BLOCK IN NEW TOWNS:
» YOUNG FAMILIES IN NEW TOWNS SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED TO ADD ELDERLY PARENTS OR RELATIVES FROM PUBLIC HOUSING OR PRIVATE TENANCIES TO THEIR HOUSEHOLDS. AND APPLY FOR LARGER FLATS IN NEW TOWNS. ELDERLY PARENTS OR RELATIVES IN NEW TOWNS SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO ADD CHILDREN OR RELATIVES IN OLD URBAN ESTATES TO THEIR TENANCIES AND APPLY FOR TRANSFERS TO LARGER FLATS IN NEW TOWNS:
* IN FUTURE. PUBLIC' HOUSING ESTATES SHOULD BE BUILT OR REDESIGNED TO PROVIDE A COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEM OF DEMOGRAPH ICALL\ RELATED ACCOMMODATION. INCLUDING SHELTERED HOUSING. HOMES FOR THE AGED. HOME CUM ('ARE AND ATTENTION/1 NF I RMARY UNITS AND HOME-HELP SERVICES. WHICH SHOULD BE CAPABLE OF EXPANSION OR FLEXIBLE DEPLOYMENT:
t FAMILIES ON THE WAITING LIST UNDER THE ELDERLY PARENTS PRIORITY SCHEME SHOULD HAVE THEIR
HOUSING ALLOCATION ADVANCED BY TWO YEARS.
PROVIDED THAT THE\ HAVE BEEN REGISTERED ON THE LIST FOR NOT LESS THAN TWO YEARS. THE SCHEME SHOULD NOT BE RESTRICTED TO FAMILIES WITH
ELDERLY PARENTS BUT SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO INCLUDE OTHER DEPENDENT ELDERLY RELATIVES:
* SOME OF THE EXISTING HOSTELS FOR THE ELDERLY SHOULD EVENTUALLY BE CONVERTED TO CARE AND ATTENTION HOMES FOR Till: AGED, AND THAT HOSTEL TENANTS BE REHOUSED IN SHELTERED HOUSING SCHEMES WITHIN THEIR OWN DISTRICTS WHEREVER POSSIBLE. THE REMAINING HOSTELS SHOULD BE RETAINED FOR CERTAIN CATEGORIES OF TENANTS WHO WERE UNIQUELY SUITED TO THIS TYPE OF SERVICES:
OLDER ESTATES
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1989
* OLDER ESTATES WITH A HIGH PROPORTION OF SMALL FLATS AND COMMUNITY AMENITIES CAPABLE OF
RENOVATION AND ADAPTATION SHOULD BE RETAINED. A PROPORTION OF THE EXISTING FLATS MIGHT BE
MODIFIED INTO LARGER FLATS IN ORDER TO BALANCE THE COMPOSITION OF THE ESTATE POPULATION. PRIORITY FOR ALLOCATION OF THESE LARGE FLATS SHOULD BE GIVEN TO EXISTING ESTATE TENANTS WITH ELDERLY FAMILY MEMBERS:
» AN ESTATE SOCIAL WORKER SCHEME TO BE INTRODUCED WITH SOCIAL WORKERS BASED IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE MANAGEMENT OFFICES. THEY SHOULD BE RECRUITED BY THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT AND INCLUDED IN THE HOUSING MANAGEMENT GRADE AT AN APPROPRIATE LEVEL:
* PRIORITY SHOULD BE GIVEN TO IMPROVING THE SUPPORT SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY IN FIVE ESTATES - SAI WAN. NORTH POINT. NAM SHAN, SO UK AND CHOI HUNG. WHICH HAVE HIGH CONCENTRATIONS OF ELDERLY PERSONS (OVER 20 PER CENT): AND
» UNDERUTILISED OR VACANT ACCOMMODATION IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES MIGHT BE MODIFIED TO ACCOMMODATE MORE HOMI' CUM CARE AND ATTENTION UNITS. UNDERUTILISED SHOP UNITS, PRIMARY SCHOOLS. KINDERGARTEN PREMISES AND RESTAURANTS IN OLDER ESTATES WITH HIGH CONCENTRATIONS OF ELDERLY PERSONS SHOULD BE ADAPTED TO MEET THE SPECIALIST NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY.
A HOUSING SPOKESMAN SAID COPIES OF THE REPORT HAVE BEEN SENT TO ALL DISTRICT BOARDS AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.
THE VIEWS FROM THESE GROUPS WOULD BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT IN COMING UP WITH FINAL PROPOSALS. THE SPOKESMAN SAID. ADDING THAT VIEWS FROM INDIVIDUALS ARE ALSO WELCOMED.
THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT PLANS TO SUBMIT ITS FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS COMMITTEE OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY BY EARLY NEXT YEAR.
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/8........
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 6, 1989
8
KWUN TONG FESTIVAL TO START ON NOVEMBER 19 t t » » t
MORE THAN
FOR RESIDENTS IN
30 CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES ARE IN STORE KWUN TONG DURING THE FORTHCOMING DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
THE KWUN TONG FESTIVAL ’89. JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWUN TONG
DISTRICT BOARD, THE DISTRICT OFFICE, THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE 15 LOCAL AREA COMMITTEES. WILL BE HELD FROM NOVEMBER 19 TO DECEMBER 16.
AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TO ANNOUNCE DETAILS OF THE FESTIVAL TODAY (MONDAY), THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR CHRIS WAN. SAID THE FESTIVAL WAS AIMED AT FOSTERING A SENSE OF BELONGING AMONG RESIDENTS.
"IT WILL Al,SO HELP IMPROVE COMMUNITY INTEGRATION BY PROVIDING A WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS," HE NOTED.
MR WAN POINTED OUT THAT SINCE THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME, A CONSIDERABLE AMOUNT OF COMMUNITY RESOURCES HAD BEEN ALLOCATED FOR ORGANISING A MAJOR FESTIVE EVENT IN
THE DISTRICT EACH YEAR.
HE SAID MAJOR EVENTS ORGANISED IN THE PAST, SUCH AS THE KWUN TONG FESTIVAL, SPORTS FESTIVAL, YOUTH FESTIVAL AND ARTS FESTIVAL, HAD ALL BEEN WELL RECEIVED AND SUPPORTED BY LOCAL RESIDENTS.
OUTLINING THE PROGRAMME OF THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL, HE SAID A GRAND OPENING WOULD BE HELD AT THE HONG NING ROAD PLAYGROUND ON NOVEMBER 19 (SUNDAY).
"THERE WILL BE PERFORMANCES BY POPULAR SINGERS AND A VARIETY SHOW STAGED BY THE FRINGE CLUB," HE SAID.
DURING THE FESTIVAL, THE 15 LOCAL AREA COMMITTEES WILL HOLD A SERIES OF ACTIVITIES IN THEIR RESPECTIVE SUB-DI STR ICTS TO BOOST THE FESTIVAL ATMOSPHERE.
"THESE INCLUDE FILM SHOWS. CHINESE OPERATIC SONG PERFORMANCE, A CHILDREN’S DRAWING COMPETITION, CARNIVALS AND VARIETY SHOWS." MR WAN SAID.
THE GRAND FINALE OF THE FESTIVAL WILL BE A LIVE SHOW ON HK-TVB’S "ENJOY YOURSELF TONIGHT PROGRAMME ON DECEMBER 16.
ALSO PRESENT AT TODAY’S PRESS CONFERENCE WERE THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR LAM HANG-FAI; CHAIRMAN OF TIIF KWUN TONG
FESTIVAL '89 ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MADAM YEUNG KAM-CHUN AND
PRESIDENT, MR LO CH1NG-HO; KWUN TONG DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS
OFFICER OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT. MR LAU KWOK-KWONG; AND THE
EXECUTIVE MANAGER OF HK-TVB, MR HO LA1-CHUEN.
BOTH MR LAM AND MADAM YEUNG CALLED ON LOCAL RESIDENTS TO SUPPORT THE FESTIVAL.
THE BUDGET OF THE KWUN TONG FESTIVAL '89 AMOUNTS TO $600,000. HALF OF IT WAS MET BY THE DISTRICT BOARD, AND THE REST CAME FROM LOCAL DONATIONS.
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MONDAY. NOVEMBER 6. 1989
- 9 -
KWAI THING SPORTS FESTIVAL BEGINS THIS WEEKEND t t t t *
THE THIRD KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL WILL BEGIN ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 11) WITH A WOMEN’S SOCCER TOURNAMENT AMONG TEAMS FROM GUANGDONG, TAIWAN AND KWAI TSING.
MORE THAN 20 ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN ORGANISED FOR THE FESTIVAL. IN ADDITION TO WOMEN’S FOOTBALL. THERE WILL ALSO BE TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETICS, FENCING, HANDBALL, GATE-BALL, MARATHON WALK, VOLLEYBALL, BOWLING AND ARCHERY.
FREE ADMISSION TICKETS FOR THE SOCCER TOURNAMENT ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICE AND SUB-OFFICES.
THE FESTIVAL IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD. DISTRICT SPORTS ASSOCIATION, REGIONAL COUNCIL AND THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICE. THE BUDGET IS $650,000.
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DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT ON AGENDA t t * » *
THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD’S TOWN PLANNING AND AREA DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS THE PROPOSED DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT WORKS NEAR TAN KWAI TSUFN AT ITS MEETING ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 8).
THE MEETING WILL ALSO BE INFORMED OF THE PRESENT SITUATION AND FUTURE PROPOSALS FOR FLUSHING WATER SUPPLY IN YUEN LONG AND TIN SHU1 WAI AREA.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD’S TOWN PLANNING AND AREA DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, TO BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 8) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM, 13TH FLOOR, YUEN LONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 2 KIU LOK SQUARE. YUEN LONG.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1989
ACTIVITIES FOR NEW YEAR UNDER STUDY ♦ # ♦ ♦ t
THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD’S FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE WILL PROPOSE A SERIES OF DISTRICT ACTIVITIES TO MARK I HE LUNAR NEW YEAR AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO REVIEW THE LATEST FINANCIAL SITUATION OF THE DISTRICT BOARD.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING. WHICH WILL BE HELD IN THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM. 6 TUNG YUN STREET, BEGINNING AT 2.30 PM.
- - 0 - -
DISCUSSION ON WAN CHAI TRAFFIC SCHEME
******
THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY) A PROPOSED TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SCHEME AT FENWICK STREET AND LUARD ROAD, BETWEEN HENNESSY ROAD AND GLOUCESTER ROAD.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO RAISE WRITTEN QUESTIONS CONCERNING PARKING METERS AT STAR STREET AND WING FUNG STREET AND DIRECTION SIGNS FOR THE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 4 PM TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM. WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICE. 21ST FLOOR. SOUTHORN CENTRE, 130 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI.
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/11
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 6. 1989
11
SHEUNG SHUI THA FIRE ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA ♦ t ♦ * * t
THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE WILL EXPRESS ITS CONCERN OVER A THIRD ALARM FIRE. WHICH BROKE OUT IN THE SHEUNG SHUI TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA TWO WEEKS AGO. AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
A COMMITTEE MEMBER WILL ASK THAT THE GOVERNMENT MAKE PUBLIC THE FINDINGS OF AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE BLAZE. HE WILL ALSO ENQUIRE WHETHER FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT TN TEMPORARY HOUSING AREAS REQUIRES IMPROVEMENTS.
IN OTHER BUSINESS. APPLICATIONS FOR COMMITTEE FUNDS FROM TWO RESIDENTS* WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS FOR REPLENISHMENT OF FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT WILL BE DISCUSSED.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF BOARD * S SOCI AL SERV ICES COMM ITTEE TOMORROW
CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE. FANLING. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
THE NORTH DISTRICT I TUESDAY I IN THE JOCKEY CLUB ROAD.
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POLICING OF KWUN TONG DISTRICT t * * ♦ I
POLICE PROVIDE ROUND-THE-CLOCK COVERAGE IN COUNTERING CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES IN KWUN TONG. ONE OF THE OLDER INDUSTRIAL AREAS IN THE TERRITORY. PARTICULARLY IN FACTORY AREAS WHERE THEFTS AND BURGLARIES ARE RAMPANT.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE DISTRICT COMMANDER, SAU MAU PING, MR TONY FERRIGE. WHEN HE ADDRESSED MEMBERS OF THE HONG KONG KWUN TONG INDUSTRIES AND COMMERCE ASSOCIATION TODAY (MONDAY).
"THE FACTORIES OF KWUN TONG WITH THEIR EVER BUSY MOVEMENT OF GOODS AND PEOPLE PROVIDE AN ATTRACTIVE TARGET FOR CRIMINALS. THIS IS PARTICULARLY SO WHERE MANX INDIVIDUAL FACTORIES ARE LOCATED IN THE SAME BUILDING. THUS INCREASING THE OPPORTUNITY FOR THEFTS." MR FERRIGE SAID.
POINTING OUT THAT THERE WAS A TOTAL OF 198 REPORTED THEFT CASES IN 1988 FROM THE FACTORY AREA. INDICATING AN AVERAGE OF 16.5 CASES PER MONTH OR APPROXIMATELY ONE IN EVERY TWO DAYS. MR FERRIGE SAID THAT THERE WERE 138 REPORTED CASES IN THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF THIS YEAR. REPRESENTING AN AVERAGE OF 15.3 PER MONTH. WHICH WAS SLIGHTLY LOWER THAN THE FIGURE LAST YEAR.
/AS FAR ...o.o.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1989
12
AS FAR AS VALUE IS CONCERNED. THE DISTRICT COMMANDER SAID GOODS WORTH ABOUT $9.8 MILLION HAD BEEN STOLEN LAST YEAR. COMPARED WITH $11.6 MILLION WORTH OF GOODS REPORTED MISSING FOR THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF THIS YEAR.
MR FERRI GE NOTED THAT THE MOST PREVALENT TYPE OF OFFENCES INVOLVED THEFT FROM THE RECEPTIONIST DESK WHICH WAS USUALLY SITUATED DIRECTLY INSIDE THE FACTORY ENTRANCE AND WOULD POSF. AN ATTRACTIVE TARGET FOR CRIMINALS WHEN LEFT UNATTENDED.
ON POLICING IN THE DISTRICT. MR FERRIGE SAID LIKE MOST OF THE URBAN AREAS IN THE TERRITORY. BEAT OFFICERS WERE DEPLOYED TO PATROL THE DISTRICT. SUPPLEMENTED BY MOBILE PATROLS, TRAFFIC OFFICERS ON MOTORCYCLES. AND PLAINCLOTHES DETECTIVES ON ANTI-CRIME DUTIES.
"FULL USE IS MADE OF ROADBLOCKS AND PARTICULAR ATTENTION IS PAID TO AREAS WHERE THE PUBLIC CONGREGATE. FOR EXAMPLE FERRY PIERS. BUS STOPS. MTR STATIONS. AND THE LIKE,” HE SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT AN AVERAGE OF 110 PERSONS WOULD BE STOPPED AND QUESTIONED, AND SLIGHTLY FEWER THAN THIS SEARCHED IN THE FACTORY AREA EACH DAY.
"IN ADDITION. EACH DAY WILL SEE AN AVERAGE OF 32 VEHICLES STOPPED AND THE OCCUPANTS QUESTIONED. ALSO, PROSECUTIONS FOR TRAFFIC OFFENCES IN THE FACTORY AREA NUMBERED ABOUT 30 PER DAY.”
IN CONCLUSION. MR FERRIGE LISTED OUT SOME CRIME PREVENTION ADVICES FOR FACTORY OWNERS TO FOLLOW:
» ENCOURAGE YOUR WATCHMEN TO BE ON THE ALERT. REMIND THEM TO NOTE DOWN ANYTHING THEY FIND SUSPICIOUS. THEY SHOULD ALSO BE ENCOURAGED TO MAKE CONTACT WITH POLICE OFFICERS ON THE BEAT.
* SCAFFOLDING ON A BUILDING GREATLY INCREASES THE CHANCE OF BURGLARS OR THEFT. BE AWARE OF THE INCREASED RISK TO YOUR PROPERTY POSED BY SCAFFOLDING AND REMEMBER TO TAKE EXTRA PRECAUTION AGAINST ILLEGAL ENTRY. INCLUDING AN ADJACENT BUILDING WHICH HAS SCAFFOLDING.
i TAKE PRECAUTION WHEN DEALING IN A PRODUCT WHICH SUDDENLY FOR ONE REASON OR ANOTHER. BECOMES IN SHORT SUPPLY. EXAMPLES OF SUCH PRODUCTS THIS YEAR HAVE BEEN RAW SILK AND MORE RECENTLY CELLULOSE ACETATE TOW WHICH IS USED IN THE MANUFACTURE OF CIGARETTE FILTERS AND THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL REPORTED THEFT CASES INVOLVING THESE COMMODITIES.
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/13........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1989
13
COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR VISITS AIRLINE OFFICES
******
THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR TONY HAMMOND, VISITED THE CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS OFFICES AT THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT THIS (MONDAY) AFTERNOON.
HE WAS MET ON ARRIVAL BY THE COMPANY’S GENERAL STAFF MANAGER, MR TONY TYLER, AND OTHER SENIOR STAFF AND WAS BRIEFED ON THE COMPANY’S GENERAL EMPLOYMENT ASPECTS, EMPLOYEE RELATIONSHIP AND STAFF DEVELOPMENT.
MR HAMMOND SAID HE WAS PLEASED TO LEARN THAT THE COMPANY MAINTAINED A GENERALLY GOOD LABOUR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS IN RECENT YEARS.
VARIOUS COMMUNICATION CHANNELS, INCLUDING JOINT CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEES, IN-HOUSE MAGAZINES AND NEWSLETTERS, HAVE BEEN SET UP TO FACILITATE THE EXCHANGE OF VIEWS IN THE COMPANY.
ESTABLISHED IN 1946. CATHAY PACIFIC NOW HAS A WORKFORCE OF 10,850 BASED IN HONG KONG AND COMPANY OUTPOSTS, THE MAJORITY BEING ROUND STAFF AND FLIGHT ATTENDANTS.
TO TACKLE ITS LABOUR SHORTAGE PROBLEM, THE COMPANY HAS INTRODUCED NEW MEASURES IN STAFF RECRUITMENT INCLUDING EMPLOYING DISABLED PERSONS AND IMPLEMENTING OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES.
BEFORE CONCLUDING THE VISIT. MR HAMMOND WAS TAKEN ON A TOUR OF THE COMPANY’S CABIN CREW LOUNGE, FLIGHT SIMULATOR, THE CABIN CREW TRAINING CENTRE AND THE CATHAY CLUB.
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RELOCATION OF CHINESE VISITORS OFFICE
******
THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (MONDAY) THAT THE CHINESE VISITORS OFFICE SITUATED ON THE FIFTH FLOOR, GUARDIAN HOUSE. 32 Ol KWAN ROAD, WAN CHAI, WILL MOVE TO THE FOLLOWING NEW ADDRESS ON NOVEMBER 13:
FIFTH FLOOR, KOWLOON GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 405 NATHAN ROAD, YAU MA TEI, KOWLOON. (TEL. 3-884111, EXT. 226)
THE OFFICE WILL BE OPEN FROM 9 AM TO 12.45 PM AND FROM 2 PM TO 4,30 PM MONDAY TO FRIDAY; AND FROM 9 AM TO 12.30 PM ON SATURDAY.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO MAKE ENQUIRIES MAY TELEPHONE 3-7333111.
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MONDAY. NOVEMBER 6, 1989
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WATER STORAGE FIGURE
*****
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 64.5 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 377.970 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 248.238 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER. REPRESENTING 42.4 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR TUEN MUN FIREWORKS DISPLAY ******
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT SPECIAL TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN THE BUTTERFLY AREA IN TUEN MUN IN CONNECTION WITH THE FIREWORKS DISPLAY TO BEGIN AT 8.30 PM ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 9).
THE FOLLOWING ROADS WILL BE CLOSED TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC FROM 7.30 PM UNTIL ABOUT 9.30 PM. THE EXACT IMPLEMENTATION TIME AND DURATION OF THE ROAD CLOSURE WILL BE DECIDED BY THE POLICE, DEPENDING ON THE GENERAL TRAFFIC AND CROWD SITUATION PREVAILING AT THAT TIME:
* LUNG MUN ROAD BETWEEN WU SHAN ROAD AND THE BUTTERFLY BEACH RECREATION AREA;
* WU KING ROAD;
» ROAD 28A;
* ROAD 44K; AND
* WU SHAN ROAD SECTION SOUTH OF THE UNNAMED LOOP ROAD.
DURING THE CLOSURE. ALL VEHICLES PARKED IN THE CARPARKS OF THE HOUSING ESTATES IN THE BUTTERFLY AREA ARE NOT PERMITTED TO LEAVE VIA THE CLOSED ROADS. SPECTATORS ARE STRONGLY ADVISED TO USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT TO AND FROM BUTTERFLY BEACH.
ALL PARKING SPACES AT THE BUTTERFLY BEACH RECREATION AREA WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 1 PM UNTIL ABOUT 9.30 PM. VEHICLES ILLEGALLY PARKED AT THE SUSPENDED PARKING SPACES WILL BE TOWED AWAY BY THE POLICE.
THE TAXI STAND IN THE PIER HEAD TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 7.30 PM UNTIL ABOUT 9.30 PM.
AS FROM 7.30 PM, KMB ROUTES 59A, 59M AND 59X WILL BE REROUTED VIA LUNG MUN ROAD AND WU SHAN ROAD AND BE TERMINATED ON THE SECTION OF WU SHAN ROAD WESTBOUND EAST OF WU KING ROAD.
/DURING THE .....
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1989
DURING THE DIVERSION PERIOD. THE BUS STOPS IN THE PIER HEAD TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE AND ALONG LUNG MUN ROAD SECTION BETWEEN WU SHAN ROAD AND ROAD 28A, WU SHAN ROAD, ROAD 28A AND ROAD 44K WILL BE SUSPENDED.
PASSENGERS TRAVELLING FOR TSUEN WAN, KWAI CHUNG AND KOWLOON ARE ADVISED TO USE THE TEMPORARY BUS TERMINUS AT WU SHAN ROAD.
WHEN THE CLOSED ROADS ARE RE-OPENED TO TRAFFIC, ALL THESE BUS SERVICES WILL RESUME THEIR NORMAL ROUTEINGS.
THE MELODY GARDEN, BUTTERFLY AND LRT DEPOT LIGHT RAIL STOPS WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 7.30 PM UNTIL ABOUT 9.30 PM. PASSENGERS ARE ADVISED TO USE THE SAN SHEK WAN AND THE FERRY PIER STOPS INSTEAD.
TO COPE WITH THE PASSENGER DEMAND AFTER THE FIREWORKS DISPLAY, ADDITIONAL LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SERVICES WILL BE OPERATED.
AS FROM 7.30 PM, LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT FEEDER BUS ROUTE 520 WILL OMIT ROAD 28A AND ROAD 14K AND TERMINATE AT THE BUS STOP ON LUNG MUN ROAD SOUTHBOUND OUTSIDE THE BUTTERFLY BEACH RECREATION AREA. WHEN THE CLOSED ROADS ARE RE-OPENED TO TRAFFIC, ROUTE 520 WILL RESUME ITS NORMAL ROUTEI NG.
THE OPERATING HOURS OF THE CENTRAL TO TUF.N MUN HOVERFERRY SERVICE WILL BE CURTAILED WITH THE LAST SAILING DEPARTING BLAKE PIER AND TURN MUN FERRY PIER AT 7.45 PM AND 8 PM RESPECTIVELY.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GLITTERING WELCOME FOR ROYAL VISITORS ....................... 1
ROYAL VISITORS SEE LIFE AT THE TOP .......................... 5
BUSY SCHEDULE FOR ROYAL VISITORS ............................ J
EXCO CONSIDERS RECOMMENDATIONS ON PAY POLICY................. 6
TRIBUNAL TO INQUIRE INTO SHARE DEALINGS OF LAFE HOLDINGS LIMITED ..................................................... 8
OFFICIALS TO REPLY IN LEGCO POLICY DEBATE.................... 9
REVIEW ON NEEDS OF HK'S DANCE SCENE.......................... 9
SPECTACULAR CLOSE TO TUEN MUN FESTIVAL ...................... 10
SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORIENTEERING COMPETITION.......... 11
TRAFFIC ACCIDENT STATISTICS CW DB COMMITTEE AGENDA .......... 11
READING AWARD SCHEME FOR SECONDARY STUDENTS ................. 12
ID CARD REMINDER FOR MEN BORN IN 1941-44 .................... 1J
ILLEGAL STRUCTURES IN MONG KOK TO BE CLOSED ................. 14
WATER CUTS IN TWO NT AREAS .................................. 15
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 7. 1989
1
GLITTERING WELCOME EOR ROYAL VISITORS
*****
A GUARD OF HONOUR MOUNTED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT (THE VOLUNTEERS). LION DANCERS. A UNICORN DANCE. AND A YOUTH SPECTACULAR GREETED THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES AT EDINBURGH PLACE THIS EVENING (TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 7).
THE OFFICIAL WELCOME WAS THE FIRST PUBLIC EVENT IN A BUSY FOUR-DAY SCHEDULE FOR THE ROYAL VISITORS WHICH WILL COVER A WIDE SPECTRUM OF EVENTS AND LOCATIONS ACROSS THE TERRITORY.
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES HAD EARLIER ARRIVED AT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ON BOARD AN RAI' VC 10.
THEY WERE RECEIVED AT THE AIRPORT BY THE GOVERNOR. SIR DAVID WILSON. WHO PRESENTED LADY WILSON AND HIS AIDE-DE-CAMP. SUPERINTENDENT GILES RUSSELL. TO THE ROYAL VISITORS.
THE GOVERNOR ALSO PRESENTED THE DIRECTOR OF PROTOCOL AND DIRECTOR ROYAL VISIT. AIR COMMODORE VIVIAN WARRINGTON AND ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE PROTECTION OFFICERS. CHIEF INSPECTOR MIKE DEMAID-GROVES AND SENIOR INSPECTOR PAUL KEYLOCK
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS WERE DRIVEN TO THE PROMONTORY PIER, HALF WAY DOWN THE KAI TAK RUNWAY. WHERE THEY BOARDED THE GOVERNOR’S LAUNCH. THE LADY MAURINE. FOR THE TRIP ACROSS THE HARBOUR TO QUEEN’S PIER.
A TOTAL OF 14 LAUNCHES ACCOMPANIED THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS ON THEIR TRIP ACROSS THE HARBOUR. THEY WERE LED BY THE MARINE POLICE’S HARBOUR DIVISION COMMAND LAUNCH. POLICE 79. ON BOARD WAS SUPERINTENDENT ROD COLSON. CHARGED WITH ENSURING THAT VICTORIA HARBOUR WAS KEPT CLEAR FOR THE ROYAL ESCORT.
POLICE 79 WAS FLANKED ON EACH SIDE BY TYPHOON-TYPE INFLATABLE BOATS FROM THE MARINE POLICE’S SMALL BOAT UNIT.
FLANKING THE LADY MAURINE WERE TWO AUSTRALIAN-BUILT SHARKCATS. THE FASTEST VESSELS IN THE GOVERNMENT FLEET. AND TWO MORE TYPHOON-TYPE INFLATABLES.
ASTERN OF THE LADY MAURINE WAS THE MARINE POLICE’S EASTERN DIVISION COMMAND LAUNCH. POLICE 3. ON BOARD WAS SUPERINTENDENT ROGER TRITTON WHO CO-ORDINATED THE ROYAL ESCORT.
ON ARRIVAL AT QUEEN’S PIER THE GOVERNOR PRESENTED TO THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES THE CHIEF JUSTICE. SIR TI LIANG YANG AND LADY YANG: THE CHIEF SECRETARY. SIR DAVID FORD AND LADY FORD: THE COMMANDER BRITISH FORCES. MAJOR GENERAL PETER DUFFEL AND MRS DUFFEL: SENIOR EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEMBER DAME LYDIA DUNN AND HER HUSBAND MR MICHAEL THOMAS: AND SENIOR LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBER MR. ALLEN LEE AND MRS LEE. AND THE SECRETARY ROYAL VISIT. MR PETER HARVEY.
/THE COMMANDER .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
THE COMMANDER BRITISH FORCES PRESENTED THE COMMANDING OFFICER THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT (THE VOLUNTEERS). LIEUTENANT COLONEL CHRISTOPHER PATEY. WHO ESCORTED THE PRINCE OF WALES TO THE SALUTING DAIS. THE BAND OF THI ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE PLAYED THE NATIONAL ANTHEM.
THE GUARD COMMANDER. CAPTAIN LAWRENCE CHAN KAH-WAI. REPORTED TO THE PRINCE AND INVITED HIM TO INSPECT THE GUARD OF HONOUR.
CAPTAIN CHAN. 45. SECOND-IN-COMMAND OF THE REGIMENT'S D SQUADRON. IS A BUSINESSMAN IN CIVILIAN LIFE. HE JOINED THE VOLUNTEERS IN 1967 AND WAS COMMISSIONED IN 1982 AFTER TAKING A COURSE AT THE ROYAL MILITARY ACADEMY. SANDHURST.
HE WAS PROMOTED TO LIEUTENANT IN 1983 AND TO HIS PRESENT RANK IN 1986.
SPEAKING ABOUT BEING CHOSEN TO COMMAND THE GUARD FOR THE ROYAL VISITORS. CAPTAIN CHAN SAID: "IT WAS CERTAINLY A GREAT HONOUR FOR MYSELF AND THE REGIMENT. AN OCCASION LIKE THIS CAN ONLY HAPPEN ONCE IN A LIFETIME."
WHEN THE GUARD MARCHED OFF. EDINBURGH PLACE WAS TAKEN OVER BY YOUNG PEOPLE WHO PERFORMED A LION DANCE AND A UNICORN DANCE.
THE PRINCE OF WALES PERFORMED THE TRADITIONAL CEREMONY OF DOTTING THE LION’S EYES WHILE THE PRINCESS PLACED TWO LUCKY FLOWERS ON THE LION’S HEAD.
THE CULMINATION OF THE OFFICIAL WELCOMING CEREMONY WAS A CHILDREN’S SPECTACULAR. ORGANISED BY THE DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING. MISS CHEUNG MAN-YEE.
THIS INCLUDED A GYMNASTIC DISPLAY BY 150 MEMBERS OF THE GOLDEN EAGLE GYMNASTIC TEAM WHICH PERFORMED DURING THE QUEEN’S VISIT IN 1986.
ALSO IN THE PROGRAMME WAS A TRADITIONAL CHINESE FAN DANCE BY 16 GIRLS FROM THE BISHOP HALL JUBILEE SCHOOL. A BALLET PERFORMANCE BY TWO SIX-YEAR-OLD STUDENTS FROM THE HONG KONG ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS, A FLORAL DANCE AND AN INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S PARADE.
FOLLOWING THE CHILDREN’S SPECTACULAR THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES LEFT BY CAR FOR THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANK HEADQUARTERS IN QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS WEARING A SILK BOLERO SUIT WITH DRAPED SKIRT IN VIOLET, FLAME RED. AND PALE YELLOW WITH PURPLE SHOES.
THE ENSEMBLE WAS DESIGNED BY CATHERINE WALKER OF CHELSEA DESIGN.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS' HAT CONSISTED OF CHINESE TEMPLE PURPLE SILK CROWN. LARGE STRAW BRIM WITH PILLAR-BOX RED PETERSHAM BAND AND BOW AND WAS DESIGNED BY PHILIP SOMERVILLE.
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/3......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7. 1989
- 5 -
ROYAL VISITORS SEE LIFE AT THE TOP *****
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES SAW LIFE AT THE TOP IN HONG KONG WHEN THEY VIEWED THE NIGHTTIME LIGHTS OF THE TERRITORY FROM THE 44TH LEVEL OF THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANK BUILDING AND MET TOP BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS AT A RECEPTION THIS EVENING (TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7).
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS WERE DRIVEN TO THE QUEEN’S ROAD HEADQUARTERS OF THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANK FROM EDINBURGH PLACE WHERE THE PRINCE OF WALES HAD REVIEWED A GUARD OF HONOUR AND LOCAL CHILDREN HAD STAGED A SPECTACULAR TO WELCOME THE ROYAL VISITORS.
ON THEIR ARRIVAL AT THE BANK. THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, PRESENTED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ROYAL VISIT STEERING COMMITTEE, MR DONALD LIAO POON-HUI AND MRS LIAO AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BANK, MR WILLIAM PURVES AND MRS PURVES.
THE ROYAL PARTY TRAVELLED BY LIFT TO THE 41ST LEVEL FOR A RECEPTION ATTENDED BY 100 GUESTS MADE UP OF BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS.
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES LATER WENT TO LEVEL 44 WHERE THEY HAD A PANORAMIC VIEW OF HONG KONG AND KOWLOON.
AT LEVEL 41. THE PRINCESS WAS PRESENTED WITH A POSY BY MELISSA HON. THE EIGHT-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER OF A BANK STAFF MEMBER.
AFTER THE BANK RECEPTION, THE ROYAL COUPLE LEFT FOR HMS TAMAR WHERE THEY EMBARKED ON HER MAJESTY’S YACHT BRITANNIA WHICH WILL BE THEIR HOME DURING THEIR STAY IN HONG KONG.
LATER IN THE EVENING. THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES ENTERTAINED THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON AT A PRIVATE DINNER PARTY ON BOARD HMY BRITANNIA.
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BUSY SCHEDULE FOR ROYAL VISITORS *****
IN AN EVENT-FILLED SCHEDULE THAT WILL END WITH A GALA EVENING AT THE NEW CULTURAL CENTRE.THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES’S FIRST FULL DAY IN HONG KONG TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) WILL PROVIDE A BROAD VIEW OF LIFE AT ALL LEVELS OF LOCAL SOCIETY. t
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL VISIT A WORKING-CLASS FAMILY IN THEIR HOUSING ESTATE HOME. LAY THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE THIRD UNIVERSITY. RIDE ON THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY AND SEE THE LATEST IN COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN.
/IN A........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
IN A SEPARATE PROGRAMME. THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL OPEN A NEW RED CROSS HEADQUARTERS IN WAN CHAI AND VISIT RECOVERING DRUG ABUSERS ON AN OUTLYING ISLAND.
THE PRINCE OF WALES WILL LEAVE A MESSAGE FOR POSTERITY WHEN HE DEPOSITS A TIME CAPSULE DURING HIS VISIT TO THE CLEARWATER BAY SITE OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY. WHICH IS EXPECTED TO BE TAKING ITS FIRST STUDENTS IN 1991.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL FLY FROM HMS TAMAR TO THE UNIVERSITY SITE BY A WESSEX HELICOPTER OF 28 SQUADRON, RAF.
WHEN THE HELICOPTER LANDS AT CLEARWATER BAY. THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL, SIR SZE-YUEN CHUNG. WILL ACCOMPANY THE ROYAL VISITOR IN A LIGHT VAN FROM THE LANDING PAD TO THE PROPOSED ENTRANCE TO THE UNIVERSITY SITE.
SIR SZE-YUEN WILL OFFICIALLY WELCOME HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WHO. AFTER RESPONDING. WILL DEPOSIT A TIME CAPSULE AND LAY THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE UNIVERSITY.
THE TIME CAPSULE WILL CONTAIN A MESSAGE TO THE UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY OF THE YEAR 2039. IT WILL ALSO CONTAINS WEDNESDAY’S EDITIONS OF ENGLISH AND CHINESE NEWSPAPERS. MICROFILM OF THE UNIVERSITY PLANNING COMMITTEE’S REPORT. A VIDEOTAPE INTRODUCING THE UNIVERSITY AND COMMEMORATIVE STAMPS.
THE PRINCE OF WALES WILL MEET GROUPS OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS. POTENTIAL UNDERGRADUATES AT THE UNIVERSITY. BEFORE LEAVING BY CAR FOR THE EASTERN HARBOUR TUNNEL WHERE HE WILL UNVEIL TWO PLAQUES TO COMMEMORATE THE OPENING OF THE TUNNEL AND THE SECOND MTR LINK ACROSS VICTORIA HARBOUR.
THE FIRST PLAQUE WILL BE OUTSIDE THE TUNNEL'S ADMINISTRATION BUILDING AND. AFTER THE UNVEILING. HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL BE SHOWN AROUND THE COMPUTERISED CONTROL ROOM AND GIVEN A BRIEFING ON THE WORKINGS OF THE TUNNEL.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL TRAVEL BY CAR TO LAM TIN MTR STATION WHERE HE WILL UNVEIL ANOTHER PLAQUE. THIS ONE COMMEMORATING THE OPENING OF THE EASTERN HARBOUR RAIL CROSSING.
HE WILL BOARD A SPECIAL TRAIN IN WHICH HE WILL TRAVEL FROM LAM TIN TO QUARRY BAY IN THE DRIVER’S CAB.
A NORMAL ISLAND LINE TRAIN WILL CARRY THE ROYAL -VISITOR TO ADMIRALTY STATION FROM WHERE HE WILL LEAVE FOR GOVERNMENT HOUSE. THERE THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL REJOIN HIM AFTER HER OWN MORN I NG’S PROGRAMME.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS'S FIRST OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENT OF THE DAY WILL BE OPENING THE NEW RED CROSS HONG KONG ISLAND DIVISIONAL HEADQUARTERS AT THE SOUTHORN CENTRE. WAN CHAI.
/THE PRESIDENT .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
- 5 -
THE PRESIDENT OE THE HONG KONG RED CROSS. SIR RUN RUN SHAW. WILL ESCORT HER ROYAL HIGHNESS AROUND THE PREMISES AND RED CROSS MEMBERS WILL GIVE A DEMONSTRATION OF FIRST AID TECHNIQUES.
SHE WILL ALSO BE SHOWN A DISPLAY OF PHOTOGRAPHS AND CHARTS DEPICTING RED CROSS YOUTH AND WELFARE ACTIVITIES.
THE RED CROSS YOUTH CHOIR WILL SING THE RED CROSS YOUTH AND HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL UNVEIL A COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE.
SONG
THE PRINCESS OF WALES’S NEXT VISIT WILL BE A PRIVATE ONE TO SHEK KWU CHAU. THE FIRST STOP IN A NEW LIFE FOR MANY OF THE TERRITORY’S DRUG ABUSERS.
THE SOCIETY FOR THE AID AND REHABILITATION OF DRUG ABUSERS (SARDA). RUNS A CENTRE FOR MALE PATIENTS ON THE ISLAND.
SHEK KWU CHAU. 20 KILOMETRES SOUTHWEST OF HONG KONG ISLAND. HAS A RESIDENTIAL STAFF OF 73. ONE THIRD OF WHOM WERE CHOSEN FROM FORMER PATIENTS AND TRAINED BY SARDA TO SERVE AS GROUP LEADERS AND WORK INSTRUCTORS.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL MEET PATIENTS AND STAFF AFTER FLYING TO THE ISLAND BY A HELICOPTER OF 28 SQUADRON. RAF.
THE CENTRE'S SUPERINTENDENT. DR BARRIE HOLLINRAKE. AND THE COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS. MR DAVID WEEKS. WILL EXPLAIN TO THEIR ROYAL VISITOR THE TREATMENT AND PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES AT THE CENTRE.
THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL FLY BACK TO HONG KONG FOR AN OFFICIAL LUNCH AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE AND AFTERWARDS WILL RETURN TO HMY BRITANNIA. MOORED AT HMS TAMAR.
SHE WILL WALK THROUGH THE GROUNDS OF HMS TAMAR AND PAUSE TO TALK WITH SOME OF THE SERVICE FAMILIES GATHERED THERE TO GREET HER.
IT WILL BE A MEMORABLE AFTERNOON FOR THOSE WHO MEET THE PRINCESS AT HMS TAMAR AND AN EVEN MORE MEMORABLE ONE FOR A KOWLOON FAMILY WHEN THE PRINCE OF WALES VISITS THEIR FLAT AS PART OF HIS TOUR OF CHUK YUEN ESTATE.
ACCOMPANIED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG HOUSING AUTHORITY. SIR DAVID AKERS-JONES. HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL TRAVEL BY LIFT TO THE ROOF OF WAI YUEN HOUSE FROM WHERE HE WILL HAVE A PANORAMIC VIEW OF CENTRAL KOWLOON. THE AIRPORT. VICTORIA HARBOUR AND THE HONG KONG ISLAND SKYLINE.
HE WILL BE BRIEFED ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF PUBLIC HOUSING PROGRAMMES IN CENTRAL KOWLOON. INCLUDING THE CLEARANCE OF THE KOWLOON WALLED CITY. AND ON THE WORK OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY.
THE DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION. DR STUART REF.D. WILL ALSO EXPLAIN TO HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS AND REMEDIES IN THE AREA. AFTER WHICH THE ROYAL VISITOR WILL VISIT THE LOCAL FAMILY.
/THE PRINCE .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
- 6
THE PRINCE OF WALES WILL WALK THROUGH THE FOUR-STOREY COMMERCIAL CENTRE AT THE ESTATE AND SEE THE WIDE RANGE OI SHOPS. SUPERMARKETS. RESTAURANTS AND 180 MARKET STALLS.
FROM THE SHOPPING COMPLEX. HE WILL TRAVEL BY CAR TO THE CITY POLYTECHNIC WHERE HE WILL VISIT THE POLYTECHNIC'S COMPUTER CENTRE. CENTRALISED LABORATORIES AND THE COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN CENTRE.
AT THE SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION LABORATORY. HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL HEAR A MEETING BEING HELD IN CHINESE AND BEING INTERPRETED SIMULTANEOUSLY INTO ENGLISH. AND WILL BE INVITED TO JOIN THE DISCUSSION WHILE HIS REMARKS ARE TRANSLATED INTO OTHER LANGUAGES.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL ALSO SEE A COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN DEMONSTRATION AND CHAT BRIEFLY TO COLLEGE STUDENTS BEFORE UNVEILING A COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE. AND THEN LEAVING BY CAR FOR HMY BRITANNIA.
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES’ FIRST FULL DAY IN HONG KONG WILL END WITH A GLITTERING ROYAL GALA NIGHT WHEN THEY OFFICIALLY OPEN THE HONG KONG CULTURAL CENTRE IN KOWLOON AND HEAR A PERFORMANCE BY THE LONDON BACH CHOIR ACCOMPANIED BY THE HONG KONG PHILHARMONIC.
DURING A 20-MINUTE INTERVAL IN THE PERFORMANCE. THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES WILL MEET A NUMBER OF PEOPLE INVOLVED IN THE EVENING’S PROGRAMME.
AFTER THE CONCERT. THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WILL SIGN THE VISITORS’ BOOK AND IN THE FOYER WILL MEET SOME OF Till: 400 ASSEMBLED PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN THE CULTURAL CENTRE PROJECT. OR HAVE TAKEN PART IN THE PERFORMANCE.
- - 0------------
EXCO CONSIDERS RECOMMENDATIONS ON PAY POLICY » » t » »
THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS CONSIDERED RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE STANDING COMMISSION ON CIVIL SERVICE SALARIES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE CONCERNING CIVIL SERVICE PAY POLICY AND PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES FOR USE IN DETERMINING THE PAY STRUCTURE OF INDIVIDUAL
THESE RECOMMENDATIONS ARE CONTAINED IN THE FIRST OF A SERIES OF REPORTS TO BE SUBMITTED BY THE STANDING COMMISSION WHICH AGREED IN MARCH 1HIS YEAR TO CONDUCT AN OVERALL REVIEW OF THE SALARY STRUCTURE OF NON-DIRECTORATE CIVIL SERVICE GRADES OUTSIDE THE DISCIPLINED SERVICES TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF CHANGES AND DEVELOPMENTS SINCE • ITS LAST SUCH OVERALL REVIEW IN 1979.
/A GOVERNMENT
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) THE STANDING COMMISSION HAS RECOMMENDED A CONTINUATION OF THE EXISTING GOVERNMENT POLICY THAT CIVIL SERVICE SALARIES SHOULD BE SUFFICIENT TO ATTRACT AND RETAIN STAFF OF A SUITABLE CALIBRE TO PROVIDE THE PUBLIC WITH AN EFFICIENT SERVICE AND THAT THEY SHOULD BE REGARDED AS FAIR BOTH BY CIVIL SERVANTS AND BY THE PUBLIC WHICH THEY SERVE.
"IN ADDITION. THE STANDING COMMISSION IS OF THE VIEW THAT THE NEED TO MOTIVATE STAFF TO BETTER THEIR PERFORMANCE TO MEET THE INCREASING CHALLENGES AND EXPECTATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS ATTRACTING AND RETAINING THEM," HE SAID.
THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS ACCEPTED THE STANDING COMMISSION’S RECOMMENDATION ON CIVIL SERVICE PAY POLICY SUBJECT TO A REAFFIRMATION OF THE PRINCIPLE THAT IN JUDGING FAIRNESS, BROAD COMPARABILITY WITH THE PRIVATE SECTOR IS AN IMPORTANT FACTOR.
THE STANDING COMMISSION WILL USE THE AGREED PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES IN THEIR REVIEW OF THE SALARY STRUCTURE OF INDIVIDUAL CIVIL SERVICE GRADES.
"THIS WILL INVOLVE A DETAILED EXAMINATION OF THE SALARY STRUCTURE OF SOME 340 INDIVIDUAL CIVIL SERVICE GRADES," HE SAID.
THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS ALSO ACCEPTED A RECOMMENDATION FOR THE PAYMENT OF A TEMPORARY ALLOWANCE, EQUIVALENT TO 10 PER CENT OF THE STARTING SALARY POINT OF THE FIRST (ENTRY) RANK OF THE GRADE CONCERNED. FOR THE FIVE GRADES WHICH WERE REFERRED TO THE STANDING COMMISSION FOR EXAMINATION IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION PROBLEMS.
"THIS TEMPORARY ALLOWANCE IS RECOMMENDED BECAUSE THE STANDING COMMISSION CONSIDERS THAT IT WOULD NOT BE APPROPRIATE TO MAKE PERMANENT ADJUSTMENTS TO THE PAY OF ANY INDIVIDUAL GRADE IN ISOLATION FROM OTHER ALLIED GRADES BEFORE THE CONSEQUENTIAL EFFECTS OF SUCH ADJUSTMENTS ON THEM COULD BE ESTABLISHED.
"THE TEMPORARY ALLOWANCE IS AN INTERIM MEASURE AND WILL CEASE TO BE PAID FOLLOWING THE INTRODUCTION OF ANY NEW PAY SCALES THAT MIGHT ARISE FROM THE OVERALL REVIEW. THAT IS TO SAY THE ALLOWANCE WILL BE SUBSUMED IN THE NEW PAY SCALES," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
IF APPROVED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. THE ALLOWANCE WILL BE PAYABI.E WITH EFFECT FROM OCTOBER 1. 1989.
THE RANKS WHICH WOULD RECEIVE THE TEMPORARY ALLOWANCE ARE:
- ANALYST/PROGRAMMER I AND II
EXECUTIVE OFFICER II
ASSISTANT SOCIAL WORK OFFICER
/- SENIOR MEDICAL
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
- 8 -
- SENIOR MEDICAL AND HEALTH OFFICER
- MEDICAL AND HEALTH OFFICER
- NURSES (UP TO AND INCLUDING NURSING OFFICER I)
"THIS WOULD MEAN THAT SOME 14,000 OFFICERS IN THESE RANKS, OUT OF A TOTAL OF MORE THAN 185,000 CIVIL SERVANTS, I.E. 7.5 PER CENT, WOULD RECEIVE THE TEMPORARY ALLOWANCE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT OTHER CIVIL SERVANTS WILL NOT LOSE OUT AS A RESULT OF THE TIMING OF THE REVIEW OF THEIR GRADE, BECAUSE ANY PERMANENT ADJUSTMENTS TO PAY SCALES WOULD TAKE EFFECT FROM THE COMMON DATE OF OCTOBER 1. 1989.
-----0------
TRIBUNAL TO INQUIRE INTO SHARE DEALINGS OF LAFE HOLDINGS LIMITED
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, SIR PIERS JACOBS, TODAY (TUESDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT, AFTER CONSIDERING A RECOMMENDATION FROM THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION, HE HAD DECIDED TO REFER A POSSIBLE CASE OF INSIDER DEALING TO THE INSIDER DEALING TRIBUNAL.
THE PURPOSE OF THE INQUIRY WILL BE TO DETERMINE, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE SECURITIES ORDINANCE, WHETHER CULPABLE INSIDER DEALING IN THE SHARES OF LAFE HOLDINGS LIMITED (LHL) OCCURRED OVER A SPECIFIED PERIOD, AND IF SO, THE PERSONS INVOLVED, AND THE EXTENT OF THEIR CULPABILITY.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY STATED THAT THE GOVERNOR HAD APPOINTED MR JUSTICE NAZARETH, A JUDGE OF THE HIGH COURT, AS CHAIRMAN OF THE INSIDER DEALING TRIBUNAL.
IN ADDITION, MR ALAN KEMP, A CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT, AND MR DENNIS U.S. LAM. AN EXPERIENCED BANKER, HAVE BEEN APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR AS THE OTHER TWO MEMBERS OF THE TRIBUNAL TO ACT IN RELATION TO THIS PARTICULAR INQUIRY.
IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE TRIBUNAL WILL HOLD ITS FIRST MEETING LATER THIS MONTH.
AS PROVIDED BY THE SECURITIES ORDINANCE, THE TRIBUNAL’S HEARINGS WILL BE HELD IN CAMERA AND ITS FINDINGS WILL BE .SET OUT IN A REPORT WHICH WILL BE PUBLISHED.
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/9........
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 7, 1989
9
OFFICIALS TO REPLY IN LEGCO POLICY DEBATE
******
OFFICIAL MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL REPLY TO POINTS RAISED BY MEMBERS LAST WEEK WHEN THE COUNCIL RESUMES ITS DEBATE TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS.
THE DEBATE IS ON A MOTION OF THANKS MOVED BY THE SENIOR MEMBER, THE HON ALLEN LEE.
IN OTHER BUSINESS, FOUR BILLS WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
THEY ARE THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989; THE BANK NOTES ISSUE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989; THE ARBITRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO.2) BILL 1989 AND THE IMMIGRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO.4) BILL 1989.
THREE BILLS ARE DUE TO GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE GIVEN A THIRD READING.
THEY ARE THE REGISTRATION OF PERSONS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989; THE MEDICAL REGISTRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 AND THE HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM.
------0 -------
REVIEW ON NEEDS OF HK’S DANCE SCENE *****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS APPOINTED DR PETER BRINSON, A UK DANCE EXPERT OF INTERNATIONAL REPUTE, TO CONDUCT A REVIEW ON THE OVERALL NEEDS OF THE DANCE SCENE IN HONG KONG.
DR BRINSON WILL COME TO HONG KONG EARLY NEXT MONTH.
THE SCOPE OF THE REVIEW WILL INCLUDE AN EXAMINATION OF THE PRESENT DANCE SCENE IN HONG KONG, THE NEEDS OF THE LOCAL AUDIENCE AND AN EVALUATION OF LOCAL PROFESSIONAL DANCE COMPANIES AGAINST INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS.
DR BRINSON WILL SUBMIT A REPORT WITH RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE DIRECTIONS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF DANCE WITH SPECIFIC REFERENCES TO A NUMBER OF ISSUES. THESE INCLUDE THE TARGETS FOR DEVELOPING PROFESSIONAL DANCE COMPANIES, THE ROLF. PLAYED BY NON-PROFESS1ONAL DANCE GROUPS, DANCE EDUCATION AT VARIOUS LEVELS, AND AUDIENCE BUILDING STRATEGY.
HE WILL ALSO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE FUNDING ASPECTS OF DANCE WITH REGARD TO THE NEEDS OF THE LOCAL AUDIENCE AND THE PRESENT DANCE SCENE.
/DR BRINSON .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
10
DR BRINSON HAS EXTENSIVE PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE IN DANCE AND DANCE EDUCATION WITH THE ROYAL BALLET, LABAN CENTRE FOR MOVEMENT AND DANCE AND OTHER INSTITUTIONS, AS WELL AS ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE IN LECTURING, TEACHING AND EXAMINING FOR NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL BODIES.
HE IS CHAIRMAN OR MEMBER OF A NUMBER OF ARTS-SUPPORT ORGANISATIONS AND PUBLIC ADVISORY BODIES ON THE PROMOTION OF DANCE IN THE UK AND IS THE AUTHOR OF MANY BOOKS AND PROFESSIONAL PAPERS ON DANCE.
PREVIOUSLY, DR BRINSON HAS SERVED AS CONSULTANT FOR SIMILAR REVIEWS IN HONG KONG, AS WELL AS IN THE UK, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND AND THE IRISH REPUBLIC.
RESIDENTS ARE INVITED TO SUBMIT OPINIONS ON ISSUES RELATING TO THE REVIEW. THEY SHOULD SENT IN THEIR SUBMISSIONS TO THE CULTURE DIVISION OF THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH, SHUI ON CENTRE, 25TH FLOOR, 6-8 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 25 THIS YEAR.
-------0----------
SPECTACULAR CLOSE TO TUEN MUN FESTIVAL
♦ ♦ * ♦ ♦
THE TUEN MUN FESTIVAL WILL DRAW TO A SPECTACULAR CLOSE ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 9) WITH A CARNIVAL OF SINGING, DANCING AND GAMES AT THE CULTURAL SQUARE ADJACENT TO THE TUEN MUN TOWN HALL.
IN THE EVENING, A FIREWORKS SHOW, THE FIRST EVER IN THE DISTRICT, WILL BE HELD. FIREWORKS WILL BE SET OFF IN EIGHT SPECIALLY DESIGNED COMBINATIONS AT 8.30 PM, OFF THE COAST OF TUEN MUN.
THE DISPLAY WILL BE VISIBLE FROM ON TING, YAU 01, BUTTERFLY, AND OTHER COASTAL AREAS, BUT GIVEN GOOD WEATHER, THE VANTAGE POINT WILL BE ON BUTTERFLY BEACH WHERE A PANORAMIC VIEW WILL BE POSSIBLE.
TO FACILITATE TRAFFIC MOVING TO AND FROM BUTTERFLY BEACH, SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN THE BUTTERFLY AREA. SPECTATORS ARE URGED TO USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT.
THE FIREWORKS DISPLAY, THE FESTIVAL’S CLOSING CEREMONY AND THE "TUEN MUN TN A BLAZE OF COLOURS" VARIETY SHOW WILL BE BROADCAST LIVE ON TELEVISION.
THE TUEN MUN FESTIVAL HAS FEATURED A VARIED PACKAGE OF ENTERTAINMENT THIS YEAR -- THE GRANDEST IN THE 12 YEARS OF THE BIENNUAL FESTIVAL’S HISTORY. THE BUDGET WAS ABOUT $2 MILLION.
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/11
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
11
SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORIENTEERING COMPETITION
*****
ORIENTEERING ENTHUSIASTS IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO TEST THEIR SKILLS IN A COMPETITION DURING THE CURRENT SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
THE EVENT, "ORIENTEERING IN TAI TAM", WILL BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 26 (SUNDAY) FROM 10 AM TO 1 PM AT THE TAI TAM COUNTRY PARK.
IT IS BEING ORGANISED BY THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE HONG KONG SCOUT ASSOCIATION AND THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE WITH A VIEW TO PROMOTING SPORTS AND ENHANCING COMMUNITY SPIRIT.
PEOPLE WHO LIVE, STUDY OR WORK IN THE DISTRICT ARE WELCOME TO FORM A THREE-MEMBER TEAM TO ENTER THE COMPETITION.
STARTING FROM A CARPARK AT THE JUNCTION OF TAI TAM RESERVOIR ROAD AND TAI TAM ROAD, TRAMS ARE REQUIRED TO LOCATE MARKERS OF DIFFERENT SCORES IN VARIOUS PARTS OF THE COUNTRY PARK.
THE FIVE TEAMS WHICH SCORE THE HIGHEST POINTS WITHIN A SPECIFIED PERIOD WILL BE THE WINNERS. THEY WILL BE AWARDED TROPHIES AND SOUVENIRS.
ENTRY FORMS AND DETAILS OF THE COMPETITION ARE AVAILABLE AT THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE AT ABERDEEN CENTRE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES IN STANLEY VILLAGE ROAD, WAH FU ESTATE AND LEI TUNG ESTATE. THE deadline: for entry is November 20.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE TO THE STANLEY SUB-OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE ON 5-8130305.
-------0---------
TRAFFIC ACCIDENT STATISTICS ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA *******
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL TABLE A REPORT ON ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT STATISTICS AT THE MEETING OF THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 9).
THE REPORT COMPARES AND ANALYSES TRAFFIC ACCIDENT FIGURES BY DISTRICT BOARD AREAS.
TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC CONDITIONS AT LAI WAN ROAD IN MEI FOO SUN CHUEN, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL PRESENT FIVE PROPOSALS FOR MEMBERS’ CONSIDERATION.
/THE MEETING .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER ?, 1989
THE MEETING WILL ALSO DISCUSS TRAFFIC PROBLEMS AT THE LUNG PING ROAD AND FAT TSEUNG STREET TEMPORARY HOUSING AREAS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 9) AT THE SHEK KIP MEI COMMUNITY HALL. BLOCK 42, SHEK KIP MEI ESTATE, NAM CHEONG STREET.
- - 0
READING AWARD SCHEME FOR SECONDARY STUDENTS
*****
A READING AWARD SCHEME WILL BE HELD FOR SECONDARY 1 TO 5 STUDENTS TO HELP THEM DEVELOP GOOD READING HABITS AND IMPROVE THEIR LANGUAGE SKILLS. AS WELL AS TO PROMOTE THE USE OF LIBRARY RESOURCES.
THE AWARD SCHEME IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ CLUBS ASSOCIATION AND THE LIBRARY SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
BOOK COUPONS WORTH BETWEEN SI,000 TO $2,000 AND TROPHIES WILL BE AWARDED TO THE TOP THREE WINNERS AND THEIR SCHOOLS RESPECTIVELY.
CERTIFICATES OF MERIT AND BOOK COUPONS WORTH $300 EACH WILL BE PRESENTED TO 20 OUTSTANDING ENTRANTS.
THE DEPUTY CHIEF INSPECTOR OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, MRS C.H. KONG, AND THE GENERAL SECRETARY OF THE BOYS’ AND GIRLS' CLUBS ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG, MRS JUSTINA LEUNG, WILL ANNOUNCE DETAILS OF THE SCHEME AT A PRESS CONFERENCE ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 9) AFTERNOON.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND A REPRESENTATIVE TO ATTEND THE PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE READING AWARD SCHEME TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 9) IN THE HALL OF THE BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ CLUBS ASSOCIATION AT 3 LOCKHART ROAD. FIFTH FLOOR, WAN CHAI.
THE PRESS CONFERENCE WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM.
/15
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 7. 1989
15
ID CARD REMINDER FOR MEN BORN IN 1941-44 * * * * *
THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY) REMINDED MEN BORN IN 1941. 1942. 1943 OR 1944 TO APPLY FOR NEW IDENTITY CARDS BEFORE NOVEMBER 25.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SAID: "TO AVOID THE LAST-MINUTE RUSH. MEN OF THIS AGE GROUP WHO HAVE NOT YET APPLIED FOR A NEW IDENTITY CARD SHOULD COME FORWARD WITHOUT DELAY.
"FAILURE TO APPLY FOR A NEW IDENTITY CARD WITHIN THE SPECIFIED PERIOD IS AN OFFENCE LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF #3.000," HE ADDED.
APPLICANTS CAN GO TO ANY ONE OF THE EIGHT NEW IDENTITY CARD ISSUE OFFICES TO RENEW THEIR IDENTITY CARDS.
THESE OFFICES ARE OPEN FROM 8 AM TO 9.30 PM DAILY. EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
"THE ISSUE OFFICES ARE VERY CROWDED IN THE EVENINGS. TO AVOID HAVING TO QUEUE UP FOR A LONG TIME AT THE ISSUE OFFICES OR TO COME BACK ON ANOTHER DAY. APPLICANTS ARE ADVISED TO GO TO THESE OFFICES IN THE MORNINGS AND THE AFTERNOONS." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THEY CAN 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 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 : SHOP 8A. SECOND FLOOR. CHANWAY SHOPPING CENTRE. 11-17 SHA TIN CENTRE STREET, SHA TIN TEL. NO. 0-6059108
YUEN LONG : HOP YICK CENTRE. SECOND FLOOR, 31 HOP YICK ROAD TEL. NO. 0-1771543
/THEN MIJN ......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
- 14
TUEN MUN : CHI LOK COMMERCIAL CENTRE. GROUND FLOOR.
CHI LOK FA YUEN
TEL. NO. 0-45808(52
SHEUNG SHUI : TSUEN WO TAI LAU. GROUND FLOOR. 82-84 SAN FUNG AVENUE. SHEK WU HUI TEL. NO. 0-6727191
FOR INFORMATION ON THE DOCUMENT TO BE BROUGHT ALONG. IHE1 MAI MAKE USE OF THE 24-HOUR RECORDED MESSAGE SERVICE BY DIALLING 5-8909393.
THE SPOKESMAN REITERATED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
-----o------
ILLEGAL STRUCTURES IN MONG KOK TO BE CLOSED
* * * * *
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE CERTAIN ILLEGAL STRUCTURES IN MONG KOK SO THAT THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND TO THE PUBLIC.
THE STRUCTURES ARE ON THE FLAT ROOF ADJACENT TO FLAT B, FIRST FLOOR. KAM FONG MANSION. 10-20 KAM FONG STREET.
THE CLOSURE FORMS PART OF AN EXERCISE TO ENFORCE AN ORDER ISSUED UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE IN SEPTEMBER 1986 REQUIRING THE DEMOLITION OF THE STRUCTURES.
NOTICES OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON DECEMBER 7 THIS YEAR WERE POSTED ON CONSPICUOUS PARTS OF THE STRUCTURES TODAY (TUESDAY).
IT IS EXPECTED THAT DEMOLITION WILL START ONCE THE CLOSURE ORDER IS OBTAINED.
--------o ---------
/15........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1989
15
WATER CUTS IN TWO NT AREAS *****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN YUEN LONG WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 9 PM ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 9) TO 7 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE WATER WORKS.
THE AREA AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY LONG HA, TAI YUEN FISHERY GARDEN, MAN YUEN TSUEN, FAIRVIEW PARK, NGAU TAM MEI, FUK HING LEI, SAN WAI TSUEN, SHEUNG CHUK YUEN, CHUK YUEN TSUEN, YAU TAM MEI TSUEN, TAM MEI CAMP, YAU TAM MEI SAN TSUEN, WAI TSAI AND YAU MEI SAN TSUEN.
ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 10), FRESH AND SALT WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN TSUEN WAN WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 9 PM TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE WATERMAIN CONNECTION.
THE AREA AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY WO YI HOP ROAD FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH NGONG HOM ROAD TO CHEUNG PEI SHAN ROAD, INCLUDING ROUTE TWISK, SHING MUN ROAD, LO WAI ROAD, YI PEI CHUN ROAD, HILLTOP ROAD, WO YI HOP VILLAGE, CHEUNG SHAN ESTATE, CHEUNG SHAN TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA, HOI PA RESITE VILLAGE, SAM TUNG UK VILLAGE, LO WAI CHUEN, YI PEI CHUN VILLAGE, FU YUNG SHAN TSUEN, SAN CHUEN, MA SIN PAI CHUEN, SAI LAU KOK CHUEN, PAK TIN PA TSUEN, MUK MIN HA TSUEN, CHUK LAM SIM YUEN, YUEN YUEN HOK YUEN, HILLTOP COUNTRY CLUB, TUNG PO TO, KWU HANG CHUEN, HO FUNG COLLEGE AND LI PANG SECONDARY SCHOOL.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING: PEOPLE MUST BELIEVE IN HK’.S FUTURE: CS ................... 1
GOVT SEEKS RETURN TO CONSTRUCTIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA 2 WORK ON BILL OF RIGHTS MOVING SPEEDILY .................... 3
COMMITTEE FORMED TO GUIDE PILOT STUDIES ................... 5
EFFECTIVE MEASURE IN REPLENISHING LOSS OF TALENT........... 7
POSITION ON NATIONALITY ISSUE UNCHANGED ................... 9
PERIOD OF ECONOMIC CONSOLIDATION INEVITABLE .............. 10
TECHNOLOGY CENTRE WILL PLAY IMPORTANT ROLE................ 11
EXPANSION OF KAI TAK AIRPORT'S CAPACITY .................. 1J
STRICT OBSERVANCE OF PRIORITIES REQUIRED ................. 1$
CONTINUED EFFICIENCY OF PORT IS VITAL ................... 1?
TELECOMMUNICATIONS FIELD DEVELOPING RAPIDLY .............. 19
HELP BEING CONSIDERED FOR IVORY WORKERS .................. 21
RURAL PLANNING, IMPROVEMENT STRATEGY ..................... 22
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FACTOR IMPORTANT IN PADS PLANNING 24
TERRITORIAL TRANSPORT PLANS OUTLINED...................... 27
SEN CONFIDENT TERTIARY EDUCATION TARGET CAN BE ACHIEVED .. J1 MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SCHOOL SECTOR ...................... 33
EDUCATION PROBLEMS MUST BE FACED AND RESOLVED ............ 34
COMMITTEE ON MANPOWER REQUIREMENTS SET UP ................ 36
REVIEW OF SOCIAL WELFARE PROGRAMME AREAS ................. 37
STEPS BEING TAKEN TO REMEDY STAFFING SITUATION............ 35
PREMATURE TO HAVE MEDICAL POLICY WHITE PAPER ............. 40
YOUTH PROJECT TO DISCOURAGE SMOKING...........I-........ k2
COMMITMENT TO YOUIH DEVELOPMENT........................... 43
ACTIVE ROLE IN PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION............. 44
DB MEMBERS ARE GETTING YOUNGER....4.*.....4.4............. 44
URBAN SQUATTERS TO BE CLEARED BY MID-1990'S.....4......... 45
PROGRESS MADE IN SPORTS, RECREATION AND -CULTURE.......... 46
BOAT PEOPLE; GOVT COMMITTED TO GENEVA PLAN ............... 46
/ENSURING LAW.......
ENSURING LAW IS IN LINE WITH COMMUNITY REQUIREMENTS....... 48
EFFORT TO INSURE HONG KONG'S FUTURE....................... 50
LEGCO CONCLUDES POLICY DEBATE .............................. 51
BILL AIMS TO UNDERLINE JUDICIARY'S INDEPENDENCE............. 52
BANK NOTES BILL INTRODUCED................................ 51*
BOOST TOR HK AS ARBITRATION CENTRE.......................... 55
NEW RANK BEING CREATED IN IMMIGRATION DEPT.................. 57
TOURIST ASSOCIATION TO MEET CHALLENGES AHEAD ............... 58
WIDE-RANGING PROGRAMME FOR ROYAL VISITORS..................... 59
PRINCE OF WALES VISITS CITY POLYTECHNIC ....................... 62
GLITTERING ROIAL OPENING FOR CULTURAL CENTRE .................. 64
ROYAL VISITOR TRAVELS BY TUBE ..............‘........‘......... 65
PRINCESS OF WALES MEETS RED CROSS YOUTH ................... 6?
PRINCE VISITS THIRD UNIVERSITY SITE................... ;.... 68
HONG KONG GETS ROYAL PRAISE.................................... 69
PRINCE OFFICIALLY OPENS EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING............... 71
PRINCE AND PRINCESS LUNCH WITH COMMUNITY LEADERS .............. 72
PRINCESS OF WALES MEETS SERVICE FAMILIES....................... 72
CHUK YUEN FAMILY HAVE ROYAL VISITOR............................ 73
PRICE, VOLUME MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN AUGUST............ 75
HK WILL EMERGE IS MAJOR PLAYER: STI.......................... 79
GOOD PROSPECTS FOR PARTNERSHIP OF JAPANESE INVESTMENT AND HK
INDUSTRIES ................................................ 80
HONG KONG TO ATTEND PECO MEETING ............................ 82
MID-YEAR EXPENDITURE AND REVENUE UPDATED .. ................... 83
GOVT OFFICIALS MEET IVORY WORKERS REPRESENTATIVES ............. 84
DISTRICT FESTIVAL TABLE TENNIS EXHIBITION MATCH ............... 85
DB TO DISCUSS LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PROPOSALS .......... 85
DB STUDIES PROCESSING OF SMALL HOUSE APPLICATIONS ............. 86
DB COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER FUND APPLICATIONS................... 86
TEMPORARY FERRY SERVICE FOR TSING YT.......................... 87
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON HK ISLAND ............................ 87
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN KOWLOON CITY........................... 88
TEMPORARY URBAN CLEARWAY IN EASTERN STREET..................... 89
LONG VEHICLE BAN IN POTTINGER STREET........................... 89
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
PEOPLE MUST BELIEVE IN HE’S FUTURE: CS ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
TO DEAL WITH THE CURRENT PROBLEMS EFFECTIVELY. WE MUST NOT ONLY BELIEVE IN OURSELVES. WE MUST CONVINCE THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG THAT THEY CAN BELIEVE IN HONG KONG. IN THEIR OWN FUTURE HERE, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY IN A FUTURE FOR THEIR CHILDREN, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
’’THAT REQUIRES LEADERSHIP,” SIR DAVID SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN CONCLUDING HIS SPEECH IN THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS.
HE THANKED THE GOVERNOR FOR GIVING THE LEAD BY CHARTING THE CLEAREST POSSIBLE COURSE FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO FOLLOW.
HOWEVER, HE POINTED OUT THAT THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG DID NOT LIE WITH THE ADMINISTRATION ALONE.
"BY 1997 THERE WILL BE NO OFFICIAL MEMBER OF THIS COUNCIL: THAT FORMAL CHANGE. ENSHRINED IN THE JOINT DECLARATION. SIGNIFIES A MORE SIGNIFICANT CHANGE IN THE WAY HONG KONG IS TO BE GOVERNED. A GROWTH IN THE INFLUENCE OF NON-OFFIC1AL MEMBERS AND A NEED FOR LEADERS TO EMERGE FROM THE COMMUNITY.” HE SAID.
SIR DAVID SAID THE DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG’S POLITICAL SYSTEM WOULD ENCOURAGE THAT TREND. BUT TO MAKE IT WORK WELL HONG KONG NEEDED RESPONSIBLE, EXPERIENCED PEOPLE TO TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE AND DEVOTE THEIR FULL TIME ENERGIES TO PUBLIC SERVICE.
"HONG KONG PEOPLE HAVE A WELL DESERVED REPUTATION FOR DEVOTING THEIR TIME TO WORKING FOR THE COMMUNITY AND I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THE GOOD PEOPLE WILL COME FORWARD TO HELP LEAD HONG KONG INTO THE NEXT CENTURY."
HOWEVER. HE NOTED THAT PROVIDING LEADERSHIP WOULD NOT BE EASY AND THE POLITICAL AND OTHER PRESSURES MIGHT BE GREAT.
"BUT AS LONG AS WE STICK UNSWERVINGLY TO THE PRINCIPLES O*N WHICH HONG KONG’S SUCCESS HAS BEEN BUILT. THE RULE OF LAW AND THE FREEDOM OF THE INDIVIDUAL (PRINCIPLES WHICH ARE ENSHRINED IN THE JOINT DECLARATION AND THE BASIC LAW) WE WILL BE ABLE TO PROVIDE THE BEST HOPE OF HONG KONG’S SUCCESS NOW AND IN THE FUTURE.” SIR DAVID SAID.
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WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8, 1989
2
GOVT SEEKS RETURN TO CONSTRUCTIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA t * » * *
THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD. SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT HE BELIEVES THAT WITH TIME AND PATIENT EFFORT ON THE PART OF BOTH HONG KONG AND CHINA. WE WILL BE ABLE TO RETURN TO THE FLEXIBLE AND CONSTRUCTIVE APPROACH TO PROBLEMS WHICH HAS CHARACTERISED THE HONG KONG/CHINA RELATIONSHIP SINCE THE SIGNING OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION.
"FOR OUR PART WE ARE DETERMINED TO DO EVERYTHING POSSIBLE TO BRING THAT ABOUT," SIR DAVID SAID IN THE DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE EVENTS OF THE LAST FEW MONTHS HAD UNDERLINED THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN OUR SYSTEM AND THAT OF CHINA. "INEVITABLY THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA HAS COME UNDER STRAIN," HE ADDED.
"BRITAIN AND CHINA ARE BOUND TOGETHER BY THE JOINT DECLARATION TO WORK FOR THE CONTINUING PROSPERITY AND STABILITY OF HONG KONG AND BOTH SIDES HAVE DECLARED THEIR CONTINUING COMMITMENT TO THE FULL AND FAITHFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF THAT AGREEMENT." SIR DAVID SAID.
HE REAFFIRMED THAT THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO PLAY ITS PART FULLY IN THE WORK OF IMPLEMENTING THE JOINT DECLARATION.
"WE WILL ALSO CONTINUE TO BUILD ON AND DEVELOP THE EVER-EXPANDING RANGE OF LINKS BETWEEN HONG KONG PEOPLE AND THEIR NEIGHBOURS IN GUANGDONG PROVINCE.
"THESE LINKS ARE MAKING AN EXTREMELY IMPORTANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF BOTH HONG KONG AND SOUTHERN CHINA. THEY OFFER PRAGMATIC EVIDENCE OF THE DETERMINATION OF ORDINARY PEOPLE, ON BOTH SIDES OF THE BORDER, TO WORK TOGETHER CONSTRUCTIVELY FOR. THEIR MUTUAL BENEFIT," SIR DAVID SAID.
ON THE BASIC LAW, SIR DAVID SAID IN SPITE OF INTERRUPTIONS TO THE SECOND CONSULTATION EXERCISE. HONG KONG PEOPLE RESUMED THE DEBATE. AND A WIDE VARIETY OF VIEWS WAS EXPRESSED.
"AGAIN, POINTS MADE IN THIS CHAMBER IN MAY AND JUNE CONTRIBUTED TO THAT DEBATE AND ASSISTED IN FOCUSSING PUBLIC ATTENTION ON KEY AREAS.
"DISCUSSION BETWEEN NON-GOVERNMENT MEMBERS OF BOTH THIS COUNCIL AND THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL SHOWED THE WAY IN WHICH DIFFERENCES CAN, THROUGH CONSTRUCTIVE DEBATE, BE RECONCILED IN THE SEARCH FOR THE GREATER GOOD OF THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE." SIR DAVID SAID, ADDING THAT IT WAS THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE WHOSE INTERESTS MUST BE SAFEGUARDED IN THE FINAL VERSION OF THE BASIC LAW.
/"I AM .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
"I AM SURE THAT THOSE WHO ARE TASKED WITH THE HEAVY RESPONSIBILITY OF PRODUCING A FRAMEWORK FOR HONG KONG WHICH WILL DO MUCH TO SHAPE HONG KONG WELL INTO THE NEXT CENTURY, WILL AGAIN SHOW THEMSELVES TO BE WILLING TO LISTEN AND RESPOND," HE SAID.
ON POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT. SIR DAVID SAID THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN ITS PRESENT FORM HAD SERVED HONG KONG WELL.
"MEMBERS REPRESENT A WIDE VARIETY OF INTERESTS AND POLITICAL VIEWPOINTS, BUT IT IS USUALLY POSSIBLE TO REACH CONSENSUS ON THE IMPORTANT ISSUES OF THE DAY AND TO MOVE FORWARD TOWARDS THE ACCEPTANCE OF SENSIBLE AND PRAGMATIC SOLUTIONS.
"BUILDING ON THE FIRM FOUNDATION OF THE PRESENT SYSTEM, WHICH IS WELL UNDERSTOOD BY ALL. WILL HELP TO ENSURE CONTINUITY AND STABILITY IN THE TRANSITIONAL YEARS." SIR DAVID SAID.
AS TO THE FUTURE COMPOSITION OF THE LEGISLATURE. SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD ALREADY ACKNOWLEDGED THAT THERE WAS NOW A WIDELY HELD VIEW IN HONG KONG THAT THERE SHOULD BE A SOMEWHAT FASTER PACE OF DEVELOPMENT THAN WAS ENVISAGED IN THE 1988 WHITE PAPER. AND THE GOVERNMENT HAD SAID THAT THIS VIEW WOULD BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT IN REACHING THE FINAL DECISION ON THE MAKE UP OF THE 1991 LEGISLATURE.
"MANY MEMBERS HAVE SPOKEN IN FAVOUR OF THE EARLY ACCEPTANCE BY THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE OMELCO PROPOSAL ON THE COMPOSITION OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN 1991. THIS PROPOSAL HAS ATTRACTED SUPPORT FROM MOST DISTRICT BOARDS AND FROM THE WIDER COMMUNITY.
"A DECISION ON THE 1991 LEGISLATURE WILL BE TAKEN IN SUFFICIENT TIME FOR THE ENACTMENT OF ELECTORAL LEGISLATION AND FOR OTHER PREPARATORY WORK." THE CHIEF SECRETARY' SAID.
- - 0 - -
WORK ON BILL OF RIGHTS MOVING SPEEDILY * * * * *
THE CHIEF SECRETARY. THE HON SIR DAVID FORD. SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT WORK ON THE BILL OF RIGHTS ITSELF HAS MOVED AHEAD SPEEDILY.
HE SAID THAT DRAFTING INSTRUCTIONS HAD BEEN ISSUED. AND A DRAFT WAS UNDER PREPARATION.
"THE INTENTION IS TO RENDER RIGHTS SET OUT IN THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS JUSTICIABLE IN OUR COURTS SO FAR AS PRACTICABLE SO THAT INDIVIDUALS WHO FEEL THAT RIGHTS HAVE BEEN VIOLATED WILL BE ABLE TO INITIATE ACTION THROUGH THE COURTS TO SEEK REDRESS.
/"PARTICULAR CARE
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
"PARTICULAR CARE IS BEING TAKEN TO ENSURE THAT THE BILL OF RIGHTS HAS SUPERIOR LEGAL STATUS WITHIN HONG KONG LAW." HE SAID.
SIR DAVID NOTED THAT MUCH OF THE DEBATE WITHIN AND OUTSIDE THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL HAD CONCENTRATED ON THE SO-CALLED FREEZE PERIOD DURING WHICH EXISTING LEGISLATION WOULD BE IMMUNE FROM CHALLENGE IN THE COURTS.
HE NOTED THAT THERE WERE THOSE WHO HOPED THAT THIS PERIOD WOULD BE SHORT. OTHERS QUESTIONED THE WISDOM OF THE CONCEPT ITSELF. OTHERS URGED THAT THE REVIEW OF LEGISLATION SHOULD NOT AWAIT ENACTMENT OF THE BILL.
"ONCE WE HAVE THE NEW BILL IN PLACE, INDIVIDUALS WILL BE ABLE TO CHALLENGE THE EXISTING LEGISLATION IF THEY BELIEVE IT CONTRAVENES THE BILL OF RIGHTS; THE COURTS WILL IN TURN BE ABLE TO STRIKE DOWN EXISTING LAWS WHICH BREACH BASIC RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS." SIR DAVID EXPLAINED.
"BUT THEY WILL NOT BE ABLE TO ENACT NEW LAWS TO TAKE THEIR PLACE.
"THE SITUATION COULD THEREFORE ARISE WHERE THERE WOULD BE AN OPERATIONAL VACUUM BEFORE A LAW WHICH HAD BEEN ADJUDGED INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE BILL OF RIGHTS COULD BE REPLACED BY AN AMENDED ONE WHICH WAS COMPATIBLE." HE SAID.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE TIMETABLE FOR ENACTMENT OF THE BILL WAS UNUSUALLY SHORT. AND IT WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE TO REVIEW ALL EXISTING LEGISLATION BEFORE IT WAS ENACTED.
"HENCE THE NEED FOR A GRACE PERIOD AFTER PASSAGE OF THE BILL TO ALLOW US TO IDENTIFY REAL AREAS OF DOUBT REGARDING COMPATIBILITY." HE SAID.
HOWEVER. SIR DAVID POINTED OUT THIS WAS NOT REVIEW WOULD ONLY BEGIN AFTER PASSAGE OF THE BILL.
TO SAY
THAT THE
"WORK HAS ALREADY BEGUN. INDEED, WE HAVE ALREADY IDENTIFIED SOME AREAS WHERE EXISTING HONG KONG LAWS - EVEN THOSE WHICH REFLECT DEEPLY HELD VIEWS - MAY NEED AMENDMENT IF THEY ARE TO BE BROUGHT FULLY INTO LINE WITH THE BILL. OUR LAWS GOVERNING HOMOSEXUAL BEHAVIOUR FALL WITHIN THIS CATEGORY." SIR DAVID SAID.
NOTING THAT THERE HAD BEEN REPORTS THAT THE ADMINISTRATION HAD DECIDED ON A FIVE-YEAR FREEZE PERIOD. SIR DAVID SAID THAT WAS NOT TRUE. AND WHILST NO COMPLETION DATE HAD BEEN FIXED. THE ADMINISTRATION WAS VERY CONSCIOUS OF THE NEED TO KEEP THE PERIOD TO THAT WHICH WAS STRICTLY NECESSARY FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE EXERCISE.
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/5........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
5
COMMITTEE FORMED TO GUIDE PILOT STUDIES
*****
A HIGH POWERED PUBLIC SECTOR REFORM STEERING COMMITTEE HAS NOW BEEN SET UP UNDER THE CHIEF SECRETARY’S COMMITTEE TO GUIDE AND CO-ORDINATE VARIOUS PILOT STUDIES AND TO TAKE THE REFORM PROGRAMME FORWARD. THE CHIEF SECRETARY. THE HON SIR DAVID FORD. SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SIR DAVID SAID THAT THE LEVEL OF DEMAND ON THE GOVERNMENT’S RESOURCES. BOTH IN MANPOWER AND FINANCIAL TERMS. WAS LIKELY TO GROW SIGNIFICANTLY OVER THE NEXT DECADE WHEN MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS WOULD REACH CONSTRUCTION STAGE.
’’BUT RESOURCES ARE LIMITED. THE ADMINISTRATION IS ALWAYS LOOKING FOR WAYS TO IMPROVE THE SYSTEM OF RESOURCE ALLOCATION IN THE CIVIL SERVICE. AND IN TURN TO PLACE GREATER EMPHASIS ON POLICY SECRETARIES’ RESPONSIBILITIES FOR SETTING PRIORITIES AND FOR FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT GENERALLY." HE SAID.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY POINTED OUT THAT THE ADMINISTRATION. WITH THESE OBJECTIVES IN MIND. COMPLETED AN INTERNAL DOCUMENT ON PUBLIC SECTOR REFORM IN FEBRUARY THIS YEAR.
'THIS REFORM PROGRAMME HAS GENERATED GREAT INTEREST WITHIN THE SENIOR MANAGEMENT OF THE SERVICE.’' HE SAID. ADDING THAT HE WOULD KEEP MEMBERS INFORMED OF THE PROGRESS ON A REGULAR BASIS.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID THE HIGH DEGREE OF INTEREST SHOWN BY MANY MEMBERS IN DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF THE CIVIL SERVICE REFLECTED A RECOGNITION OF THE FACT THAT IT WAS MOST IMPORTANT TO MAINTAIN A STABLE. EFFICIENT AND CONTENTED CIVIL SERVICE IN HONG KONG IF WE WERE TO FACE THE FUTURE WITH CONFIDENCE.
SIR DAVID SAID LAST YEAR HE WAS ABLE TO SAY THAT MORALE IN THE CIVIL SERVICE WAS HIGH. "I CANNOT SAY THE SAME THIS YEAR.” HE REMARKED.
“THERE CAN BE NO DOUBT THAT CONCERN ABOUT THE FUTURE AND THE RELATED ISSUE OF NATIONALITY. TOGETHER WITH THE BRAIN DRAIN AND THE ADDITIONAL DEMANDS BEING MADE ON THEIR SERVICES HAS AFFECTED CIVIL SERVANTS’ MORALE.
"BUT WHILE MORALE MAY HAVE SUFFERED SOMEWHAT. WHAT IS PERHAPS EVEN MORE IMPORTANT. IS THAT THIS PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN ALLOWED TO AFFECT THE HIGH STANDARD OF SERVICE WHICH THE CIVIL SERVICE HAS GIVEN AND CONTINUES TO GIVE.” THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID.
HOWEVER. HE STRESSED THAT THIS WAS NOT TO SAY THAT HE WAS COMPLACENT ABOUT THE PRESENT STATE OF CIVIL SERVICE MORALE.
“WE MUST TRY AND IMPROVE IT. THE EXISTING SITUATION HAS MANY CAUSES. NOT ALL OF WHICH ARE WITHIN OUR CAPACITY TO RESOLVE. BUT ONE THING WE CAN DO IS TO SEEK THAT THE GOVERNMENT. AS A GOOD EMPLOYER. PROVIDES ITS CIVIL SERVANTS WITH REASONABLE PAY AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE. ' SIR DAVID SAID.
/NOTING THAT .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
NOTING THAT OF PARTICULAR CONCERN TO MANY CIVIL SERVANTS WAS THE SECURITY OF THEIR PENSIONS. SIR DAVID SAID THE PAYMENT OF PENSIONS AFTER 1997 ON TERMS NO LESS FAVOURABLE THAN BEFORE WAS GUARANTEED BY THE JOINT DECLARATION AND THE GOVERNMENT EXPECTED THAT THIS GUARANTEE WOULD BE EMBODIED IN THE BASIC LAW.
"MOREOVER. PENSIONS ARE NOW A RIGHT AND ARE A STATUTORY CHARGE ON THE GENERAL REVENUE. PENSIONS WILL THEREFORE BE SECURE. NEVERTHELESS. IN THE LIGHT OF STAFF ANXIETY WE ARE CONSIDERING WHETHER MORE CAN BE DONE TO REASSURE THE CIVIL SERVICE ABOUT THEIR PENSIONS." SIR DAVID ADDED.
ON A REQUEST WHICH HAD BEEN MADE BY STAFF. AND ECHOED BY MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL THAT A PORTION OF THE GOVERNMENT RESERVES BE SET ASIDE TO ESTABLISH A FUND FOR THE PAYMENT OF PENSIONS. SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS EXAMINING THIS PROPOSAL BUT HE POINTED OUT THAT THIS WAS UNLIKELY TO PROVE A PRACTICABLE PROPOSITION.
"THE SUMS INVOLVED ARE MASSIVE. WE ARE TALKING OF TENS OF BILLIONS OF DOLLARS AND WITH OUR EXISTING COMMITMENTS FOR CAPITAL EXPENDITURE AND PLANNED DEVELOPMENT. THE POSSIBILITY OF SETTING ASIDE SUCH SUMS FOR A CIVIL SERVICE PENSION FUND IS REMOTE.
"OUR RESERVES MUST BE USED FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE. BUT THAT SAID WE RECOGNISE THERE ARE WORRIES OVER PENSIONS AND ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR OTHER WAYS TO PROVIDE A HIGHER DEGREE OF SECURITY FOR THEM." THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID.
ON THE REFERENCE BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE NEED TO RESTRICT THE GROWTH OF THE CIVIL SERVICE. SIR DAVID SAID THIS WAS NOT JUST A FINANCE BRANCH INITIATIVE. THE ADMINISTRATION AS A WHOLE WAS FULLY COMMITTED TO THE OBJECTIVE OF SEEKING A LEAN. EFFICIENT AND HIGHLY PRODUCTIVE SERVICE.
"IF WE ACCEPT THAT CIVIL SERVANTS SHOULD BE REASONABLY WELL PAID. AND LOOKED AFTER. WHICH WE DO. THEY IN TURN MUST ACCEPT THAT THEY MUST WORK HARD TO DELIVER THE GOODS.
"AT A TIME WHEN OUR MANPOWER AND FINANCES ARE LIMITED WE MUST ENSURE THAT THE SERVICE PRODUCES GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY IN EVERY RESPECT.
"THIS IS WELL UNDERSTOOD BY ALL CONCERNED AND I AM CONFIDENT THAT THE LIMITED TARGETS FOR GROWTH WHICH WE HAVE ESTABLISHED ARE REALISTIC AND WILL BE ACHIEVED." SIR DAVID SAID.
SIR DAVID PAID SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO THE CENTRAL POLICY UNIT FOR THE SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION IT HAD MADE TO THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION MAKING PROCESS AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL.
"SINCE ITS INCEPTION ON APRIL 1. 1989. THE CPU HAS PRODUCED A TOTAL OF 94 PAPERS FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF THE GOVERNOR. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY AND MYSELF.
/"IT HAS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
”IT HAS PROVEN ITS ABILITY TO RESPOND PROMPTLY TO URGENT REQUESTS FOR VIEWS ON MATTERS OF IMMEDIATE CONCERN TO THE ADMINISTRATION: ITS IN-DEPTH ANALYSES ON ISSUES. WHICH ARE OF A LONG-TERM AND STRATEGIC NATURE. ARE OF PARTICULAR VALUE TO US IN FORMULATING AND EVALUATING MAJOR POLICIES.” SIR DAVID SAID.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID HF WAS PARTICULARLY PLEASED THAT ITS MEMBERS HAD ESTABLISHED SUCH GOOD WORKING AND PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH POLICY SECRETARIES. HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS AND PRIVATE SECTOR CONTACTS.
’’THIS REFLECTS GREAT CREDIT ON ALL CONCERNED AND HAS. I AM SURE. DISPELLED MUCH OF THE SUSPICION AND PERHAPS CYNICISM WHICH GREETED THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE FORMATION OF THE CPU A YEAR AGO.” SIR DAVID SAID.
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EFFECTIVE MEASURE IN REPLENISHING LOSS OF TALENT
*****
THE ADMINISTRATION BELIEVES THAT THE DECISION TO INCREASE THE PROVISION OF FIRST DEGREE PLACES FROM 7.000 NEXT YEAR TO 15.000 IN 1995 WILL IN THE LONG RUN PROVE TO BE THE MOST EFFECTIVE PRACTICAL MEASURE IN REPLENISHING THE LOSS OF TALENT, THE CHIEF SECRETARY. THE HON SIR DAVID FORD SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN REPLY TO MEMBERS* VIEWS ABOUT THE NEED TO REBUILD LOCAL CONFIDENCE AND STEM THE LOSS OF HONG KONG’S TALENTED PEOPLE THROUGH EMIGRATION. SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT SHARED MANY OF THE SENTIMENTS EXPRESSED BUT ALSO BELIEVED THAT THERE WAS A ROLE FOR EVERYONE TO PLAY IN THE RESTORATION OF CONFIDENCE.
"ULTIMATELY THE MOST IMPORTANT TEST WILL BE WHETHER THE COMMUNITY RECOVERS ITS SELF-CONFIDENCE.” HE SAID.
"GOVERNMENT ESTIMATES THAT NEXT YEAR HONG KONG IS LIKELY TO LOSE ABOUT 55.000 PEOPLE THROUGH EMIGRATION. THIS IS A SOBERING FIGURE INDEED." SIR DAVID REMARKED.
NOTING THAT ACTION WAS IN HAND TO IMPROVE GOVERNMENT’S KNOWLEDGE STILL FURTHER ABOUT THE BRAIN DRAIN PROBLEM. SIR DAVID SAID THIS WAS ESSENTIAL IF WE WERE TO PROVIDE THE INFORMATION THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER WOULD NEED IN CONSTRUCTING HIS MANPOWER SUPPLY MODEL.
FOR THE MEDIUM TERM. SIR DAID SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS DEVISING A NUMBER OF MEASURES DESIGNED TO FACILITATE THE RETURN OF THE ECONOMICALLY ACTIVE WHO HAD EMIGRATED SINCE THE SURGE OF DEPARTURES BEGAN IN 1987.
/’•WHILE OUR.........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 8
’’WHILE OUR JOB MARKET SPEAKS FOR ITSELF LOCALLY. PERHAPS ITS VOICE DOES NOT CARRY AS WELL OVERSEAS. WE MUST ALSO DO WHAT WE CAN TO ENSURE THAT ANY FORMER HONG KONG RESIDENT WHO WANTS TO COME BACK IS NOT DETERRED BY A LACK OF SUITABLE SCHOOL PLACES FOR HIS CHILDREN.” HE SAID.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY POINTED OUT THAT THERE WAS ALREADY A CONSIDERABLE STOCK OF PLACES IN OUR INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS. AND THE GOVERNMENT WAS RELIEVING REGIONAL SHORTFALLS BY BUILDING A THIRD ENGLISH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION SECONDARY SCHOOL ON HONG KONG ISLAND.
”TO CREATE AN EFFICIENT SOURCE OF ADVICE AND INFORMATION TO PARENTS WE ARE INVITING ALL INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS TO FORM A ONE STOP UNIT. AND ARE EXAMINING A PROPOSAL TO EXTEND THIS AND OUR EMPLOYMENT ADVISORY SERVICES TO OUR OVERSEAS OFFICES.
’’BUT WE FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT THE EMPHASIS MUST BE ON FACILITATING RETURN. NOT ON CREATING SPECIAL INCENTIVES TO DO SO. A SUBSTANTIAL BONUS FOR COMING BACK WOULD IN EFFECT BE AN EXTRA REASON TO GO.” HE SAID.
THE PRIVATE SECTOR WAS RESPONDING VIGOROUSLY TO THE PROBLEM OF MANPOWER SHORTAGE AND MANY LOCAL FIRMS WERE ACTIVELY PURSUING RECRUITMENT OF FORMER HONG KONG RESIDENTS PARTICULARLY IN CANADA AND THE UNITED STATES. HE SAID.
"THE CIVIL SERVICE HAS ALREADY SCORED SOME SUCCESS IN THIS. ABOUT 200 APPLICATIONS FOR APPOINTMENT AS ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED THIS YEAR FROM FORMER HONG KONG RESIDENTS IN THE UNITED STATES.
"MOST OF THEM ARE IN THEIR MID TO LATE TWENTIES WITH SOME YEARS OF WORKING EXPERIENCE. THIS IS ENCOURAGING NEWS.” SIR DAVID SAID.
ON THE SCHEME FOR IMPORTING TECHNICIANS AND CRAFTSMEN FROM OUTSIDE HONG KONG. SIR DAVID SAID THE SCHEME HAD WORKED REASONABLY WELL.
’’BY THE END OF THE YEAR MORE THAN 1. .000 SKILLED WORKERS WILL BE BROUGHT IN AS A TEMPORARY MEASURE TO STRENGTHEN OUR LOCAL WORK FORCE. THAT WOULD STILL LEAVE THE ORIGINAL QUOTA OF 3.000 SKILLED WORKERS NOT FULLY UTILISED.
’’THE TIME WILL SOON COME FOR THE ADMINISTRATION TO REVIEW WHETHER THIS TEMPORARY MEASURE COULD BE INCORPORATED IN SOME FORM INTO OUR NORMAL IMMIGRATION PROCEDURES.” SIR DAVID SAID.
MEANWHLE. SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD NOW ADOPTED A LIBERAL IMMIGRATION POLICY FOR SKILLED WORKERS AT THE PROFESSIONAL LEVEL.
’’THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR BRINGING IN OVERSEAS PROFESSIONALS ARE NOW SIMPLE AND FLEXIBLE. WE DO NOT HAVE ANY NUMERICAL CEILING. NOR DO WE DISCRIMINATE AGAINST ANY PLACE OF ORIGIN.
/"AN EMPLOYER........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
"AN EMPLOYER WHO IS UNABLE TO FILL A PROFESSIONAL VACANCY LOCALLY WILL BE WELCOME TO RECRUIT FROM OUTSIDE HONG KONG. ONCE HE IS ABLE TO SATISFY THE DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION THAT HIS PROSPECTIVE RECRUIT IS PROFESSIONALLY QUALIFIED AND WILL BE PAID GOING HONG KONG WAGES. AN EMPLOYMENT VISA WILL BE ISSUED PROMPTLY.
"I ENCOURAGE ALL EMPLOYERS TO MAKE GOOD USE OF THIS FACILITY. SIR DAVID SAID.
-----0-----
POSITION ON NATIONALITY ISSUE UNCHANGED *****
THE CHIEF SECRETARY. THE HON SIR DAVID FORD. SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THE ADMINISTRATION’S POSITION ON THE NATIONALITY ISSUE HAS NOT CHANGED AND IT CONTINUES TO BELIEVE THAT RESTORING THE RIGHT OF ABODE IN THE UK FOR HONG KONG BRITISH NATIONALS WOULD PROVIDE A BROAD BASE FOR REBUILDING LOCAL CONFIDENCE.
SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS NATURALLY DISAPPOINTED BY MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS THAT IT WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE IN UK POLITICAL TERMS FOR THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT TO GRANT SUCH A RIGHT TO ALL BRITISH NATIONALS IN HONG KONG.
"BUT WE UNDERSTAND THAT THERE IS LIKELY BE A LIMITED SCHEME BASED ON CITIZENSHIP WHICH WILL NOT REQUIRE A BENEFICIARY TO LEAVE HONG KONG TO OBTAIN HIS RIGHT OF ABODE IN UK.
'‘WE CERTAINLY BELIEVE THAT SUCH A SCHEME IS BETTER THAN NO SCHEME AT ALL AND THE ADMINISTRATION HAS BEEN CONSIDERING HOW A GOOD MEASURE OF LOCAL CONFIDENCE COULD BE RESTORED WITHIN SUCH A PACKAGE.
"WE BELIEVE THAT. GIVEN MORE WORK HERE AND IN LONDON. THERE IS ADVANTAGE IN ACTIVELY SUPPORTING THIS SCHEME WITH THE OBJECTIVE. AS YOU SIR SAID IN YOUR ADDRESS. OF TRYING TO ENSURE THAT IT IS AS GENEROUS AS POSSIBLE. AND THAT IT IS TO THE GREATEST EXTENT POSSIBLE TAILORED TO HONG KONG’S NEEDS AND CIRCUMSTANCES.” HE SAID.
IN SELECTING LIKELY BENEFICIARIES. THE GOVERNMENT HAD SUGGESTED TO THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT THAT THE SCHEME SHOULD TARGET THOSE OCCUPATIONS IN HONG KONG WHICH WERE MOST VULNERABLE TO SERIOUS DEPLETlOiN THROUGH EMIGRATION. AND THOSE WHICH WERE LIKELY TO BE PUT UNDER PARTICULAR PRESSURE ARISING FROM THE CHANGE OF SOVEREIGNTY.
"A HIGH PRIORITY SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THOSE OCCUPATIONS IT WOULD BE PARTICULARLY EXPENSIVE AND TIME-CONSUMING TO REPLENISH. THE SCHEME SHOULD HAVE SPECIAL REGARD FOR THE DEPENDANTS OF THE PRINCIPAL BENEFICIARIES." HE SAID.
/SIR DAVID
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 10 -
SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT SUGGESTED THAT THE MAJORITY OF THOSE WHO BENEFITTED FROM THE UK CITIZENSHIP SCHEME SHOULD BE IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR RATHER THAN IN THE CIVIL SERVICE.
’’USING THESE CRITERIA AND A REASONABLY GENEROUS OVERALL FIGURE. SUCH A SCHEME SHOULD BE ABLE TO RETAIN IN HONG KONG ACTIVE MEMBERS OF A BROAD SPECTRUM OF OCCUPATIONS IN SUFFICIENT NUMBERS TO SUSTAIN A VIBRANT ECONOMY AND AN EFFECTIVE ADMINISTRATION UP TO AND BEYOND 1997.
“WHILE ANY LIMITED SCHEME IS BOUND TO BE DIVISIVE TO SOME EXTENT WE BELIEVE THAT THE USE OF SUCH CRITERIA WOULD BE MORE READILY UNDERSTOOD AND ACCEPTABLE BY HONG KONG PEOPLE AND THAT THE SCHEME WOULD BE GENERALLY WELCOMED.'* THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID.
---0------
PERIOD OF ECONOMIC CONSOLIDATION INEVITABLE
*****
THERE IS A POSITIVE SIDE TO THE CONTINUED SLOWING DOWN OF THE GROWTH RATE OF THE ECONOMY IN THAT THE REDUCTION OF PRESSURE ON CAPACITY SHOULD HELP TO REDUCE INFLATION, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY. THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
LEADING OFF REPLIES BY OFFICIALS IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, SIR PIERS SAID CURRENTLY HONG KONG WAS EXPERIENCING MORE MODERATE GROWTH FOR BOTH THE EXTERNAL AND THE DOMESTIC SECTORS.
"WE MUST REMEMBER THAT WE HAVE ENJOYED THREE SUCCESSIVE YEARS OF REMARKABLE GROWTH, AND IN THESE CIRCUMSTANCES A PERIOD OF CONSOLIDATION IS INEVITABLE," HE SAID.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID THAT ON TOP OF THIS PREDICTABLE ECONOMIC ADJUSTMENT, THE EVENTS IN CHINA IN JUNE HAD ADVERSELY AFFECTED A NUMBER OF SECTORS.
"SOME HAVE SUFFERED MORE THAN OTHERS, BUT. NEVERTHELESS, I AM HAPPY TO SAY THAT THERE HAS AGAIN BEEN A STEADY INCREASE IN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS. A CLEAR INDICATION OF OUR ECONOMIC VITALITY AND RESILIENCE," HE SAID.
NOTING THAT IxN THE SHORT TERM INFLATION WAS THE MAJOR CONCERN, SIR PIERS SAID ALTHOUGH THE LABOUR MARKET WAS STILL GENERALLY TIGHT. THERE WAS SOME EVIDENCE THAT THE WORKFORCE WAS NOW MORE STABLE WITH LESS JOB-HOPPING THAN BEFORE WHICH SHOULD HELP REDUCE THE PRESSURE ON WAGES.
"THE CURRENT RATE OF INFLATION AT AROUND 10 PER CENT, AS MEASURED BY THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A), IS SOMEWHAT TOO HIGH FOR COMFORT, BUT TO THE EXTENT THAT MOST OF THE CURRENT INFLATIONARY PRESSURES ARE GENERATED DOMESTICALLY. THE RATE OF . INFLATION CAN BE EXPECTED TO EASE AS THE ECONOMY SLOWS DOWN FURTHER." HE SAID.
/"THE PERFORMANCE
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
11
"THE PERFORMANCE OF THE ECONOMY IS, OF COURSE, THE FRAMEWORK WITHIN WHICH WE PLAN OUR PROGRAMMES OF EXPENDITURE, AND IT IS THEREFORE ESSENTIAL THAT WE MONITOR CAREFULLY ITS DEVELOPMENT," THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID.
HE NOTED A SUGGESTION THAT AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD SHOULD BE ESTABLISHED TO OVERSEE AND ADVISE ON THE ENTIRE RANGE OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN HONG KONG.
"THIS IMAGINATIVE AND HELPFUL SUGGESTION TIES IN WELL WITH OUR INTENTION TO REVIEW THE STRUCTURE AND MEMBERSHIP OF THE ECONOMIC REVIEW COMMITTEE SO AS TO IMPROVE THE DIALOGUE BETWEEN THE ADMINISTRATION AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR," SIR PIERS SAID, ADDING THAT HE HOPED TO BE ABLE TO CONCLUDE THIS REVIEW SHORTLY.
---------------------0------- TECHNOLOGY CENTRE WILL PLAY IMPORTANT ROLE
THE GOVERNMENT’S ROLE IN THE AREA OF INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT CONTINUES TO BE ONE OF PROVIDING THE NECESSARY SUPPORT SERVICES TO MAINTAIN AN EFFICIENT MANUFACTURING SECTOR, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY' (WEDNESDAY).
SIR PIERS SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION TO ADD TO THE RANGE OF SUPPORT SERVICES THROUGH THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A TECHNOLOGY CENTRE WOULD PLAY A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN DEVELOPING HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIAL CAPABILITY.
"THE CENTRE’S PROVISIONAL BOARD, TO BE ESTABLISHED NEXT YEAR, WILL NEED TO WORK CLOSELY WITH THE INDUSTRIAL, BUSINESS AND ACADEMIC COMMUNITIES.
"AS WITH OTHER PARTS OF OUR SUPPORTING INFRASTRUCTURE, THE TECHNOLOGY CENTRE WILL RESPOND TO THE DEMANDS OF INDUSTRY, RATHER THAN SEEK TO CHANNEL INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT IN PREDETERMINED DIRECTIONS," HE SAID.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY' SAID WITH THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE TECHNOLOGY CENTRE. THE GOVERNMENT’S ESSENTIAL PHILOSOPHY OF ALLOWING MARKET FORCES TO DETERMINE THE DIRECTION TAKEN BY INDUSTRY WOULD REMAIN UNCHANGED. BUT THAT A GAP IN THE INFRASTRUCTURE WOULD HAVE BEEN FILLED.
"THIS MARKET-LED APPROACH RECOGNISES THAT INDUSTRIALISTS AND BUSINESSMEN ARE BEST PLACED TO DECIDE UPON THE DIRECTION OF THEIR UNDERTAKINGS.
"GENERALLY, THIS MUST BE PREFERRED TO A GOVERNMENT-LED INDUSTRIAL STRATEGY. CERTAINLY IT IS THE WAY IN WHICH HONG KONG HAS PROSPERED," HE SAID.
/THE FINANCIAL .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
12 -
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID HE DID NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE CHALLENGES NOW FACED BY INDUSTRIALISTS. WHO MUST ADOPT NEW TECHNOLOGY TO REMAIN COMPETITIVE.
’’THOSE INDUSTRALISTS WHO ARE WILLING TO CONFRONT THESE CHALLENGES CAN OBTAIN TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE. IF NECESSARY. FROM A RANGE OF PUBLICLY-FUNDED BODIES. SUCH AS THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL. THE CAPABILITIES OF WHICH HAVE BEEN EXPANDED RAPIDLY IN RECENT YEARS TO MEET OUR CHANGING NEEDS.” SIR PIERS SAID.
TURNING TO REFERENCES MADE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY TO HONG KONG’S CONTINUED PROSPERITY. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID THE GOVERNMENT ALREADY PROVIDED PRACTICAL ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THIS THROUGH THE EXPANSION OF TERTIARY EDUCATION DESIGNED TO INCREASE THE SUPPLY OF GRADUATES IN THESE FIELDS.
"MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE. AND SO WE ARE LOOKING AT IMPROVED ARRANGEMENTS FOR ENGAGING OUR INDUSTRIAL AND ACADEMIC COMMUNITIES IN THE WHOLE AREA OF INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AND APPLIED RESEARCH." HE SAID.
"OUR AIM IS TO MAKE EVEN MORE EFFECTIVE USE OF THE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD AND THE COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY. AND I AM CONSIDERING AS A MATTER OF PRIORITY HOW THIS MIGHT BE ACHIEVED," HE ADDED.
SIR PIERS SAID THAT IT WAS PROBABLY BETTER TO BUILD ON WHAT WE HAD RATHER THAN SWEEPING IT AWAY AND STARTING AGAIN. BUT HE SHARED THE VIEW THAT MUCH HAD BEEN ACHIEVED IN HONG KONG SO FAR. AND THAT WE WERE FACING NEW CHALLENGES THAT HAD TO BE MET.
TURNING TO THE FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID FOLLOWING THE REFORM OF THE HONG KONG STOCK EXCHANGE IN JULY 1988. THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION WAS ESTABLISHED IN MAY THIS YEAR AND THE HONG KONG FUTURES EXCHANGE WAS RECONSTITUTED IN THE FOLLOWING MONTH.
"ALL THESE MAJOR CHANGES TOOK PLACE AS SWIFTLY AS POSSIBLE AFTER THE OCTOBER 1987 CRASH. AS A COMMUNITY WE CAN BE JUSTLY PROUD OF WHAT HAS BEEN ACHIEVED SO FAR." HE SAID.
NOTING RECENT CONCERNS EXPRESSED THAT AS A RESULT OF THE SUCCESSFUL REFORMS HONG KONG MIGHT BE DRIFTING INTO OVER-REGULATION OF THE MARKETS, SIR PIERS SAID : "LET ME SAY EMPHATICALLY THAT WE HAVE NO INTENTION OF LETTING OUR MARKETS BE STRANGLED IN THIS WAY, NOR DO WE INTEND SLAVISHLY TO FOLLOW PRECEDENTS ESTABLISHED ELSEWHERE."
HE POINTED OUT THAT UNDER-REGULATION WAS ALSO A DANGER AND THAT THE OCTOBER 1987 CRASH HAD HIGHLIGHTED A NUMBER OF SERIOUS INADEQUACIES IN THE MARKET SYSTEMS AND IN THE OVERALL REGULATORY REGIME.
"IF WE ARE TO HAVE A MARKET WHICH BEARS COMPARISON WITH THE BEST FINANCIAL MARKETS IN THE WORLD. THEN THE SYSTEM OF REGULATION THAT WE ADOPT MUST BE ADEQUATE.
/’’AND IF..........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
"AND IF THE MARKET IS TO ECONOMY AS A WHOLE, RATHER THAN THEN THERE MUST BE STANDARDS AND
BE DEVELOPED FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE FOR THE BENEFIT OF A SMALL MINORITY, SAFEGUARDS." SIR PIERS SAID.
"THERE IS A CAREFUL BALANCE TO BE STRUCK AND I BELIEVE WE SHALL ACHIEVE IF REGULATORS AND MARKET PLAYERS DISCUSS AND DEBATE TOGETHER IN A CONSTRUCTIVE MANNER. THEY HAVE BEEN DOING SO AND I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THEY WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO," HE ADDED.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID THE DEVELOPMENT OF SELF REGULATION WAS AN IMPORTANT STATUTORY OBJECTIVE OF THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION. AND ADDED: "THIS IS ONE AREA TO WHICH I AND THE COMMISSION ARE FULLY COMMITTED."
-----0-----
EXPANSION OF KAI TAK AIRPORT’S CAPACITY
*****
THE GOVERNMENT’S DECISION TO BUILD A NEW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK, AS THE KEY ELEMENT IN THE COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY, WILL DO MUCH TO ENSURE HONG KONG’S CONTINUED ECONOMIC GROWTH AND PROSPERITY WELL INTO THE NEXT CENTURY. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS. SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SIR PIERS SAID BEFORE THE NEW AIRPORT WAS BUILT, IMPROVEMENTS MUST BE MADE TO KAI TAK AIRPORT SO THAT IT COULD HANDLE THE GROWTH IN TRAFFIC.
HE SAID THERE WAS A LIMIT, BECAUSE OF OBVIOUS GEOGRAPHICAL CONSTRAINTS, AS TO HOW MUCH THE EXISTING CAPACITY OF KAI TAK COULD BE EXPANDED TO DEAL WITH HIGH GROWTH.
A CONSULTANCY COMMISSIONED TO EXAMINE THE AIRPORT’S ABILITY TO COPE WITH FORECAST TRAFFIC GROWTH CONCLUDED THAT UNLESS VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS WERE MADE TO KAI TAK, THE AIRPORT COULD REACH THE LIMITS OF ITS CAPACITY AS EARLY AS 1993. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID.
"WE HAVE ACCEPTED THE CONSULTANTS’ RECOMMENDATIONS THAT A MAJOR
PROGRAMME OF IMPROVEMENT WORKS SHOULD
BE UNDERTAKEN
HE SAID.
OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, AT AN ESTIMATED COST OF ABOUT $3 BILLION, KAI TAK’S CAPACITY WOULD BE EXPANDED THROUGH A PROGRAMME OF WORKS AIMED PRIMARILY AT EXPANDING APRON FACILITIES TO PROVIDE MORE SPACE FOR AIRCRAFT PARKING, SIR PIERS SAID.
"THE FIRST TWO ADDITIONAL FULLY SERVICED PARKING BAYS SHOULD BE AVAILABLE IN EARLY 1992. ONCE COMPLETED, THE AIRPORT’S CAPACITY WILL BE INCREASED FROM 20 MILLION TO 24 MILLION PASSENGERS A YEAR," HE SAID.
/’’THIS SHOULD
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 14 -
"THIS SHOULD ENABLE US TO COPE WITH THE FORECAST GROWTH UP TO ABOUT 1996. THEREAFTER, THERE WILL BE SEVERE CONSTRAINTS ON ANY FURTHER GROWTH," HE ADDED.
"IT IS IN ORDER TO MINIMISE THE ECONOMIC DISBENEFITS FLOWING FROM THESE CONSTRAINTS THAT WE HAVE SET OURSELVES THE AMBITIOUS TARGET OF OPENING THE FIRST RUNWAY AT CHEK LAP KOK AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE IN 1997," THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID.
A BILL SEEKING TO ESTABLISH THE PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY WAS EXPECTED TO BE PUT TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL EARLY NEXT YEAR. AND STEPS WERE BEING TAKEN TO RECRUIT A PERSON OF APPROPRIATE CALIBRE TO FILL THE POST OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE TO THE AUTHORITY, SIR PIERS SAID.
A COMPUTERISED MASTER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME WHICH WOULD ENSURE THE EFFECTIVE CO-ORDINATION OF THE MANY INTER-RELATED PROJECTS INVOLVED IN FACILITATING THE OPENING OF THE AIRPORT IN 1997 WAS NOW BEING WORKED ON. HE SAID.
"IT WILL BE PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT TO ENSURE THAT THERE IS NO SLIPPAGE IN THE PROGRAMME FOR THE PROVISION OF AIRPORT-RELATED TRANSPORT PROJECTS. SUCH AS THE LANTAU FIXED CROSSING AND ASSOCIATED ROADS." HE ADDED.
FOR THE AIRPORT ITSELF. THE IMMEDIATE TASK WAS THE PREPARATION OF A DETAILED AIRPORT MASTER PLAN AND THERE WERE A NUMBER OF RELATED CIVIL ENGINEERING DESIGN AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT STUDIES TO BE CARRIED OUT. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID.
"WE SHALL AT THE SAME TIME ACQUIRE LAND AND COMMENCE PRELIMINARY ON-SITE WORKS," HE ADDED.
SIR PIERS NOTED THAT THERE WERE PRUDENT CONCERNS EXPRESSED ABOUT THE RISKS AND PROBLEMS INVOLVED IN SUCH AN ENORMOUS UNDERTAKING WITH REFERENCES MADE TO THE LARGE DEMAND FOR LABOUR RESULTING FROM THESE DEVELOPMENTS. THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WOULD BE ABLE TO COPE, AND THE LIKELY EFFECTS ON OVERALL DEMAND IN THE ECONOMY AND ON INFLATION.
"WE ARE ACUTELY' CONSCIOUS OF THESE PROBLEMS. CLEARLY, WE NEED TO SPREAD OUT THE CONSTRUCTION WORKLOAD AS FAR AS POSSIBLE IN ORDER TO ALLEVIATE THE PRESSURE ON COSTS.
"MOREOVER. GIVEN THE LARGE ADDITIONAL DEMAND FOR LABOUR FOR MANY YEARS TO COME AGAINST THE SLOW INCREASE IN LABOUR SUPPLY, WE HAVE TO FIND WAYS OF USING OUR LABOUR RESOURCES IN THE MOST EFFECTIVE MANNER." HE SAID.
"WE MUST INCREASE LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH THE USE OF ADVANCED CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES AND EQUIPMENT, AND THROUGH BETTER TRAINING OF OUR CONSTRUCTION WORKERS." HE ADDED.
/THE FINANCIAL
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY POINTED OUT THAT IN ORDER TO ENSURE THAT THE PROJECTS ARE COMPLETED ON TIME AND WITHIN BUDGET. THE GOVERNMENT MIGHT HAVE TO RE-EXAMINE THE NEEDS IN RELATION TO THE IMPORTATION OF ADDITIONAL LABOUR.
"WE MUST, NEVERTHELESS, ACKNOWLEDGE THE CONCERN OF THE LOCAL WORKFORCE REGARDING THE POSSIBLE EFFECTS ON WAGES AND JOB OPPORTUNITIES," SIR PIERS SAID.
- - 0 - -
STRICT OBSERVANCE OF PRIORITIES REQUIRED
*****
THERE IS NO DOUBT THAT THE RESOURCES NEEDED FOR THE PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY CAN BE SECURED, BUT THIS WILL TAKE DETERMINATION. STRICT OBSERVANCE OF PRIORITIES AND SELF-DISCIPLINE, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS. SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"FUNDING ON THIS UNPRECEDENTED SCALE WILL REQUIRE AN EQUALLY UNPRECEDENTED EFFORT FROM ALL OF US," HE SAID.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID HE WAS ONLY TOO AWARE OF THE DEMANDS ON HONG KONG’S RESOURCES -- FINANCIAL, PHYSICAL AND HUMAN — THAT THE PROGRAMME WOULD REQUIRE.
HE SAID THE PROGRAMME HAD NOT BEEN ADOPTED LIGHTLY OR WITHOUT THE MOST PAINSTAKING CONSIDERATION OF WHAT WAS ENTAILED.
"AS REGARDS TO FINANCING. I AM CONFIDENT THAT THE NECESSARY RESOURCES CAN BE FOUND. ALTHOUGH THE TOTAL COST IS HIGH, I AM ALSO CONFIDENT THAT IT IS NOT SO HIGH THAT WE CANNOT AFFORD IT.
"INDEED. WE CANNOT AFFORD NOT TO PROCEED WITH THE DEVELOPMENTS INVOLVED GIVEN THEIR IMPORTANCE TO OUR CONTINUED WELL-BEING," HE SAID.
NOTING THAT IMPLEMENTATION MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY RIGOROUS CONTROL OVER PUBLIC EXPENDITURE, SIR PIERS ADDED: "WE SHALL HAVE TO EXERCISE RESTRAINT IN PROVIDING RESOURCES FOR OTHER DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS AND SCRUTINISE CLOSELY EXPENDITURE ON EXISTING SERVICES."
"IN CONSIDERING WHAT WE CAN AFFORD. WE SHOULD NOT FORGET THE LONGER TERM BENEFITS ACCRUING FROM THE EVENTUAL RELEASE OF THE LAND CURRENTLY OCCUPIED BY KAI TAK.
"THE FACT THAT IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROJECTS IS SPREAD OVER MANY YEARS WILL ALSO GIVE US SCOPE TO PHASE EXPENDITURE CAREFULLY," HE SAID.
/"THERE IS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 16 -
"THERE IS NO DOUBT THAT A SIGNIFICANT PROPORTION OF THE PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS WILL PROVE ATTRACTIVE TO PRIVATE SECTOR INVESTORS OR LENDERS BY VIRTURE OF THE REVENUE THEY WILL GENERATE," HE ADDED.
AS FOR THE AIRPORT. THE INITIAL THINKING WAS THAT THE AIRPORT AUTHORITY. LIKE THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION. WOULD BE FUNDED THROUGH GOVERNMENT EQUITY AND PRIVATE LOAN FINANCE, SIR PIERS SAID.
"BUT WE HAVE NOT RULED OUT THE POSSIBILITY OF INVOLVING PRIVATE EQUITY AT A LATER STAGE." HE ADDED.
"WE ARE BUILDING HERE ON OUR SUCCESSFUL EXPERIENCE IN PRIVATE SECTOR FINANCING OF MAJOR PROJECTS SUCH AS ROAD TUNNELS, RAILWAYS AND CONTAINER TERMINALS.
"WE SHALL ALSO BE ABLE,
OUR ACCUMULATED RESERVES," THE
IF NECESSARY. TO DRAW TO SOME EXTENT ON. FINANCIAL SECRETARY POINTED OUT.
SIR PIERS NOTED THAT $7 BILLION HAD ALREADY BEEN SET ASIDE FOR THIS PURPOSE BUT WARNED THAT IF HONG KONG WAS TO REMAIN ATTRACTIVE TO INVESTORS, THERE WAS A NEED TO ENSURE THAT OUR FINANCIAL POSITION, INCLUDING OUR RESERVES, REMAINED STRONG.
"TO ACHIEVE THIS, WE MUST TAKE A MEASURED, PRUDENT AND STRUCTURED APPROACH TO THE MANAGEMENT OF OUR FINANCES," HE SAID.
"IN SHORT. I AM CONFIDENT THAT WE AS A COMMUNITY CAN AFFORD THIS AMBITIOUS PROGRAMME. BUT TO DO SO IT WILL BE NECESSARY TO BE REALISTIC, CRITICAL. AND DISCIPLINED ABOUT OUR OTHER PRIORITIES, AND THE RESOURCES DEVOTED TO EXISTING SERVICES." HE ADDED.
"WE SHALL HAVE TO EXERCISE FIRM FINANCIAL DISCIPLINE IN ALL AREAS OF GOVERNMENT ACTIVITY. NOT ONLY IN NEW PROJECTS AND NEW SERVICES, BUT AS IMPORTANTLY IN THE EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE DELIVERY OF EXISTING SERVICES," HE SAID.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID A VIGOROUS ATTACK ON BASELINE OR ON-GOING EXPENDITURE WOULD BE A CRUCIAL ELEMENT IN SECURING THE ADDITIONAL RESOURCES NEEDED.
"IN OTHER WORDS. ALL GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURE MUST BE PUT UNDER SCRUTINY AND SUBJECTED TO SEARCHING ANALYSIS AND ENQUIRY.
"AS ONE MEMBER MENTIONED, THERE IS A NEED TO PHASE OTHER DEVELOPMENTS TO MINIMISE THE IMPACT OF THE PORT AND AIRPORT RELATED PROJECTS ON OUR RESOURCES. I WOULD ONLY ADD THAT THIS ALSO APPLIES TO SERVICES, AND NOT JUST INFRASTRUCTURAL OR OTHER DEVELOPMENTS." HE ADDED.
AS A FIRST STEP TOWARDS CONTROLLING EXISTING EXPENDITURE AND ENCOURAGING REDEPLOYMENT OF STAFF AND INCREASED EFFICIENCY, THE GOVERNMENT HAD INTRODUCED TIGHTER CONTROLS ON THE GROWTH OF THE CIVIL SERVICE. SIR PIERS NOTED.
/"SOME 9,000 .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
"SOME 9.000 VACANT POSTS ARE BEING DELETED FOR 1989-90 REPRESENTING POTENTIAL EXPENDITURE. INCLUDING ON COSTS, OF SOME Si.7 BILLION PER YEAR.
"FURTHERMORE. REQUESTS FOR ADDITIONAL POSTS FOR 1990-91 ARE BEING CUT FAR MORE RADICALLY THAN IN RECENT YEARS IN ORDER TO KEEP THE GROWTH IN STRENGTH DOWN TO ABOUT TWO PER CENT NEXT YEAR," HE SAID.
"WHILST WE ARE TRYING TO DO THIS SELECTIVELY, BEING LESS STRICT IN AREAS OF HIGH PRIORITY OR WHERE NEW PROJECTS ARE BEING COMPLETED AND NEED TO BE STAFFED, I MUST WARN THAT ALL AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED TO VARYING DEGREES," HE ADDED.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID HE HOPED THAT IN THE LONGER TERM THIS ENFORCED RESTRAINT WOULD PROVIDE A USEFUL STIMULUS, ENCOURAGING REASSESSMENT OF PRIORITIES, REDEPLOYMENT OF STAFF AND INCREASED EFFICIENCY; AND ABOVE ALL, IT WOULD RELEASE RESOURCES FOR THE NEW INITIATIVES.
TURNING TO REFERENCES MADE TO TAXATION AND TO HIS SUGGESTION REGARDING THE INTRODUCTION OF A WHOLESALE TAX. SIR PIERS SAID THIS WAS MORE FOR THE BUDGET DEBATE NEXT YEAR.
"NEVERTHELESS. LET ME ASSURE MEMBERS THAT THE INTRODUCTION OF A WHOLESALE TAX IS NOT IMMINENT SO THERE IS NO CAUSE FOR UNDUE CONCERN AT THIS STAGE." HE SAID.
"I KNOW THAT I CAN RELY ON MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL AND COLLEAGUES IN THE CIVIL SERVICE TO ACCEPT AND UPHOLD THE CONSTRAINTS TO WHICH I HAVE REFERRED.
"I BELIEVE IT IS WELL UNDERSTOOD AND ACCEPTED THAT IT IS NOW MORE NECESSARY THAN EVER TO ENSURE THAT ALL OUR RESOURCES ARE PROPERLY AND EFFICIENTLY DEPLOYED," SIR PIERS SAID.
------0-------
CONTINUED EFFICIENCY OF PORT IS VITAL * * * * *
THE CONTINUED EFFICIENCY OF HONG KONG’S PORT IS THE VERY LIFE BLOOD OF THE TERRITORY AND STEPS MUST BE TAKEN TO ENSURE THAT NOTHING IS DONE TO IMPAIR ITS EFFICENCY AND GOOD ORDER, THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, THE HON ANSON CHAN, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE RESUMED DEBATE OF THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS. MRS CHAN SAID THE PROPOSED PORT DEVELOPMENT BOARD WOULD GO SOME WAY TO ENSURING THIS, BUT THAT WE MUST REMAIN BOTH VIGILANT AND FLEXIBLE.
/"GIVEN THE .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 18 -
’’GIVEN THE CONTINUED INCREASE IN PORT TRAFFIC, THE CONSTANT INCURSION INTO THE AVAILABLE WATER SPACE BY NEW RECLAMATIONS AND THE MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENTS FIRMLY PLANNED. WE MUST ENSURE WE HAVE IN PLACE THE MECHANISM TO KEEP OUR PORT MANAGEMENT UNDER CONSTANT REVIEW,’’ SHE SAID.
”OUR INTENTION IS THAT THE BOARD SHOULD COME INTO OPERATION IN APRIL NEXT YEAR. BEFORE THEN WE WILL NEED TO TAKE A CRITICAL LOOK AT THE PORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE STRUCTURE TO ENSURE THAT THERE IS NO OVERLAP.” SHE ADDED.
THE SECRETARY NOTED THERE WAS A SUGGESTION THAT A PORT AUTHORITY SHOULD BE ESTABLISHED IN PLACE OF THE PROPOSED PORT DEVELOPMENT BOARD.
MRS CHAN POINTED OUT THAT THERE WAS NO DISAGREEMENT THAT MANAGEMENT OF THE PORT WAS CRUCIAL TO THE TERRITORY’S CONTINUED ABILITY TO HANDLE CARGOES.
"THE EXISTING SYSTEM RELIES ON A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN GOVERNMENT. WHICH LARGELY CONTROLS THE WATERSPACE, AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR, WHICH LARGELY OWNS AND OPERATES THE WHARVES AND TERMINALS.
"THIS SYSTEM HAS SERVED US WELL FOR MANY, MANY YEARS. BUT IT HAS AN IMPORTANT WEAKNESS, BROUGHT ABOUT BY THE SCALE OF LAND AND TRANSPORT REQUIREMENTS NOW NEEDED TO SERVICE THE PORT," MRS CHAN SAID.
"ON THE SEAWARD SIDE, WE HAVE COPED WELL WITH GEARING OUR PORT TO HANDLE THE ENORMOUS CONTAINER SHIPS WHICH ENTER AND LEAVE HARBOUR, NEARLY 30 TIMES A DAY.
"BUT WE HAVE BEEtN LESS SUCCESSFUL IN COPING WITH THEIR CARGOES -- STORAGE ALONE REQUIRES VAST AMOUNTS OF LAND; TRANSPORT OF CONTAINERS TO AND FROM THE PORT HAS MADE GREAT DEMANDS ON OUR ROAD SYSTEM.
"AS DEMANDS ON THE PORT CONTINUE TO INCREASE WE SHALL NEED GREATER CO-ORDINATION BETWEEN THE MARINE AND THE LAND ASPECTS OF THE OPERATION," MRS CHAN SAID.
THIS, PLUS THE GROWING NEED TO HAVE A CENTRAL FOCUS FOR ALL MATTERS CONCERNING THE PORT. LED TO THE EXAMINATION OF THE OPTIONS OPEN FOR BETTER PORT MANAGEMENT.
IN THE PADS STUDY A PORT AUTHORITY OWNING, MANAGING AND OPERATING ALL OR PART OF THE PORT AND ITS CARGO HANDLING INFRASTRUCTURE WAS ONE OF THE OPTIONS THAT WAS CONSIDERED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
"THE REALITY IS THAT OUR PRESENT PRACTICE WHEREBY GOVERNMENT PROVIDES THE FRAMEWORK AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR PROVIDES THE INVESTMENT, THE OPERATING SKILLS AND TAKES DECISIONS ON INVESTMENT ON THE BASIS OF PRUDENT COMMERCIAL PRINCIPLES HAS SERVED US WELL.
/"IT IS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 19$ 9
- 19 -
"IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE CONTINUE TO ENCOURAGE THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO PARTICIPATE IN PORT DEVELOPMENT. WE HAVE JUDGED THAT THE CREATION OF A FULLY FLEDGED PORT AUTHORITY MIGHT NOT ENABLE THIS OBJECTIVE TO BE MET." MRS CHAN SAID.
"MOREOVER. FOR A PORT AUTHORITY TO MANAGE EFFECTIVELY, IT WOULD NEED TO HAVE SOME SAY OVER THE WAYS IN WHICH LAND IS DISPOSED. LAND IS A VERY SCARCE RESOURCE IN HONG KONG AND GIVEN THE MANY COMPETING DEMANDS, IT IS NECESSARY FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO RETAIN CONTROL OVER LAND DISPOSAL IN ORDER TO MAKE THE BEST USE OF THIS SCARCE RESOURCE," SHE ADDED.
IN PROVIDING THE NECESSARY FRAMEWORK, THE GOVERNMENT MUST WORK IN A MORE CO-ORDINATED WAY. THE SECRETARY SAID. ADDING THAT THE AIM WAS TO PROVIDE A FAR MORE ORGANISED SYSTEM FOR THE CENTRAL CO-ORDINATION OF THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT PROCESS.
"THIS IS THAT THE PORT DEVELOPMENT BOARD WITH ITS WIDELY BASED MEMBERSHIP AND ITS COMPLEMENT OF MULTI-DISCIPLINED PROFESSIONAL PLANNERS WILL BE EXPECTED TO ACHIEVE," SHE SAID.
MRS CHAN NOTED THAT HARDLY A MONTH PASSED WITHOUT THE NUMBER OF SHIPS ENTERING THE PORT AND THE VOLUMES OF CARGO THEY LOADED OR DISCHARGED REACHING NEW HEIGHTS.
"ALL THIS WITHOUT SIGNIFICANT DELAYS TO SCHEDULES AND WITH A VERY HIGH DEGREE OF SAFETY," SHE SAID, ADDING THAT THE NEW VESSEL TRAFFIC SYSTEM INAUGURATED EARLIER THIS YEAR WAS ALREADY PROVING ITS WORTH.
"I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THE PORT DEVELOPMENT BOARD WILL SEE TO IT THAT INNOVATION AND BETTER CO-ORDINATION BECOME A PART OF THE DAILY LIFE OF THE PORT.
"WE EXPECT THAT THIS BOARD WILL FAST BECOME THE SINGLE ENTITY TO WHOM PORT USERS AND INDUSTRY PARTICIPANTS CAN DIRECT THEIR CONCERNS ABOUT THE MANAGEMENT OF THE PORT," MRS CHAN SAID.
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TELECOMMUNICATIONS FIELD DEVELOPING RAPIDLY » * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT WILL CONTINUE TO EXPLORE WAYS OF EXPANDING THE SCOPE FOR COMPETITION IN TELECOMMUNICATIONS. THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES. THE HON ANSON CHAN. SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"WE RECOGNISE THAT THE CONTINUING SUCCESS OF THIS STRATEGY IS CRUCIALLY DEPENDENT ON HAVING A TELECOMMUNICATIONS REGULATORY SYSTEM THAT IS SUITABLY ADAPTED TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE RAPIDLY DEVELOPING TELECOMMUNICATIONS SCENE." MRS CHAN SAID.
/REFERRING TO .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
20
REFERRING TO THE ANNOUNCEMENT THREE MONTHS AGO OF HONG KONG CABLE COMMUNICATIONS’ SELECTION AS THE FUTURE CABLE TELEVISION LICENSEE. SHE SAID IN ADDITION TO CARRYING CABLE TELEVISION. THE NETWORK TO BE PROVIDED BY THE CABLE TELEVISION OPERATOR WOULD ALSO BE ALLOWED TO CARRY NON-FRANCHISED TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES.
THESE WOULD BE MAINLY BUSINESS-ORIENTED DATA AND FACSIMILE SERVICES. AND THE SECOND NETWORK WOULD BE OPERATING IN DIRECT COMPETITION WITH THE EXISTING NETWORK OWNED AND OPERATED BY THE HONG KONG TELEPHONE COMPANY.
"CUSTOMERS WILL FOR THE FIRST TIME HAVE A CHOICE OF WIRED NETWORKS. IN THE SAME WAY THAT THEY CURRENTLY HAVE A CHOICE OF MOBILE TELEPHONE AND PAGING NETWORKS.
"THE ENORMOUS SUCCESS OF PAGING AND MOBILE TELEPHONE SERVICES IN THE LOCAL MARKET AMPLY DEMONSTRATES THE ADVANTAGES OF COMPETITIVE PROVISION." SHE SAID.
THE PRESENCE OF A SECOND NETWORK WOULD ALSO HAVE A POSITIVE STIMULATING EFFECT ON THE ENTIRE NON-FRANCHISED TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR.
"WE EXPECT TO SEE A WIDER RANGE OF SERVICES TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY AT LOWER PRICES." SHE SAID.
AS HONG KONG ALREADY HAD A FIRST CLASS TELECOMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE. THE SECOND NETWORK SHOULD IMPROVE ITS COMPETITIVE POSITION AND ENHANCE ITS ATTRACTIVENESS TO OVERSEAS COMPANIES AS THE LEADING INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL CENTRE IN THE SOUTHEAST ASIAN REGION.
MRS CHAN SAID HONG KONG CABLE COMMUNICATIONS HAD BEEN GEARING UP FOR THE COMMENCEMENT OF ITS CABLE TELEVISION NETWORK CONSTRUCTION IN THE EARLY PART OF 1990.
IN SPITE OF THE ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF DETAILED PREPARATORY WORK REQUIRED FOR A PROJECT OF THIS MAGNITUDE. THE COMPANY APPEARED TO BE MAKING GOOD PROGRESS AT THIS STAGE TO MEET ITS TARGET • OF BEGINNING CABLE TELEVISION SERVICE IN 1991.
FOR ITS PART. THE GOVERNMENT WAS CURRENTLY PREPARING DRAFT LEGISLATION TO PAVE THE WAY FOR THE ISSUING OF LICENCES TO THE COMPANY.
"WE EXPECT TO PRESENT THESE LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS TO THIS COUNCIL EARLY IN THE COMING YEAR." MRS CHAN SAID.
CABLE TELEVISION OFFERED THE PROSPECT OF A WIDER RANGE OF HOME ENTERTAINMENT IN HONG KONG. SHE SAID.
"FROM THE FOUR CHANNELS NOW AVAILABLE. VIEWING CHOICE WILL
INCREASE TO BETWEEN 15 AND 20 CHANNELS OF NEWS. ENTERTAINMENT AND
EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL AT A COST OF $120 TO $150 PER MONTH FOR THE FIRST THREE YEARS.
/"MINORITY INTERESTS .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
21
"MINORITY INTERESTS WILL BE CATERED FOR MORE FULLY THAN IS POSSIBLE IN A CONVENTIONAL TELEVISION SYSTEM.
"APART FROM ENRICHING VIEWERS’ CHOICE. THE DEVELOPMENT OF CABLE TELEVISION WILL OPEN UP ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR RETAILERS AND ADVERTISERS AND STIMULATE GROWTH IN THE LOCAL PROGRAMME PRODUCTION INDUSTRY.
"A STEADY SUPPLY OF LOCAL PROGRAMMES MARKETED TO CHINESE
COMMUNITIES OVERSEAS SHOULD ALSO HELP TO ENCOURAGE INTEREST IN MAINTAINING LINKS WITH HONG KONG." SHE SAID.
-----0------
HELP BEING CONSIDERED FOR IVORY WORKERS
THE GOVERNMENT IS URGENTLY CONSIDERING HOW. IF AT ALL. IT CAN AMELIORATE THE EFFECTS OF THE BAN ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN IVORY. THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES. THE HON ANSON CHAN. SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MRS CHAN NOTED THAT OVER THE YEARS HONG KONG HAD MADE QUIET. BUT VERY WORTHWHILE PROGRESS IN THE GREATER PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES TRADED THROUGH THE TERRITORY. BUT NONE HAD CAUGHT THE WORLD’S IMAGINATION AND PUBLIC ATTENTION MORE THAN THE INTERNATIONAL CAMPAIGN TO SAVE THE AFRICAN ELEPHANT FROM EXTINCTION.
"WE HAVE ARGUED IN THE INTERNATIONAL FORUM THAT TO PRESERVE THE ELEPHANT. IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO RUIN THE TRADE.
"FAR BETTER, WE HAVE SAID. TO STOP THE KILLING. BUT MEET THE EXISTING BUT HOPEFULLY RESIDUAL DEMAND FOR IVORY FROM THE CONTROLLED STOCKS OF IVORY AVAILABLE TO THE WORLD FROM HONG KONG," SHE SAID.
HOWEVER, AS THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY HAD DETERMINED THAT INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN IVORY MUST CEASE, RESULTING TN IVORY TRADERS AND WORKERS . FACING VERY DIFFICULT TIMES AHEAD, THE GOVERNMENT INTENDED TO PROVIDE SOME HELP TO THOSE WORKERS WHO MIGHT LOSE THEIR JOBS.
"WE ARE WORKING ON A SCHEME TO RETRAIN THOSE WHO MAY SEEK NEW SKILLS AND. AT THE SAME TIME. ASSIST THOSE WHO MAY SEEK ALTERNATIVE JOBS IN FINDING SUITABLE OPENINGS." MRS CHAN SAID.
AS TO HELP FOR THE TRADERS. SHE SAID THERE COULD BE NO QUESTION OF THE GOVERNMENT COMPENSATING THEM FOR THEIR LOSSES AS THE BAN HAD BEEN IMPOSED ON HONG KONG. AS ON ALL OTHER PARTIES TO THE CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES. BY THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY.
/MRS CHAN .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 22 -
MRS CHAN SAID ALTHOUGH THE GOVERNMENT WAS GIVING ATTENTION TO THE IDEA OF AN INTERNATIONAL BUY-OUT FUND, WHICH HAD BEEN SUGGESTED. SHE WAS NOT OPTIMISTIC OF ITS SUCCESS.
"WE ARE. THEREFORE. TAKING FORWARD THE ENTERING OF A SHORT-TERM - AND I EMPHASISE ’SHORT TERM’ - RESERVATION TO ALLOW SUFFICIENT TIME FOR TRADERS TO DISPOSE OF THEIR EXISTING BUSINESSES AND FOR THE RETRAINING SCHEME FOR IVORY CRAFTSMEN TO BE IMPLEMENTED." SHE CONCLUDED.
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES IS THE HONG KONG MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY UNDER THE CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES.
-----0----------
RURAL PLANNING. IMPROVEMENT STRATEGY *****
IN AN ATTEMPT TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM OF UNCONTROLLED DEVELOPMENT AND THE DETERIORATION OF THE RURAL ENVIRONMENT. THE GOVERNMENT INTENDS TO IMPLEMENT. OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS, A RURAL PLANNING AND IMPROVEMENT STRATEGY. THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES. THE HON ANSON CHAN. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MRS CHAN SAID THAT AS A CONTRIBUTION TO THIS STRATEGY, THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT, IN ADDITION TO ITS TECHNICAL AND CREDIT ASSISTANCE PROVIDED TO FARMERS. HAD ESTABLISHED AN AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT FUND OF $5 MILLION FINANCED BY THE VEGETABLE MARKETING ORGANISATION.
SHE ADDED THAT THE DEPARTMENT HAD ALSO CARRIED OUT A PILOT AGRICULTURAL LAND REHABILITATION SCHEME AT TWO SELECTED AREAS.
"WE HAVE OBTAINED ENCOURAGING RESULTS IN BRINGING 6.5 HECTARES OF FALLOW LAND BACK TO CULTIVATION SINCE JULY 1988.
"THE INTENTIOiN IS TO EXTEND THIS SCHEME TO TIE IN WITH THE REVISED RURAL PLANNING AND IMPROVEMENT STRATEGY, SO AS TO UTILISE OUR FALLOW LAND FOR ACTIVE PRODUCTION," SHE SAID.
ON THE VALUABLE ROLE WHICH THE PRIMARY PRODUCERS PLAYED IN SATISFYING THE LOCAL DEMAND FOR FRESH FOOD. MRS CHAN SAID THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY IN THIS AREA WAS TO MAINTAIN A STEADY SUPPLY OF FRESH FOOD TO HONG KONG AT STABLE PRICES.
"OVER A THIRD OF THE VEGETABLES AND LIVE CHICKENS WE CONSUME COME FROM THE LOCAL FARMS: THE FISHERY INDUSTRY SUPPLIES THREE QUARTERS OF THE FISH WE CONSUME.
"THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES INDUSTRIES THUS PLAY A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN STABILISING FOOD SUPPLIES." SHE SAID.
/THE GOVERNMENT’S........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 2? -
THE GOVERNMENT’S ROLE WAS TO PROVIDE DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL SUPPORT SERVICES TO ENHANCE THEIR PRODUCTIVITY. SHE SAID. ADDING THAT THESE SERVICES HAD HELPED THE INDUSTRIES TO MODERNISE AND IMPROVE ON THEIR EFFICIENCY.
THE SECRETARY SAID THAT SHE WAS GRATEFUL TO THE VARIOUS ADVISORY BODIES, NOTABLY THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, THE VEGETABLE MARKETING ADVISORY BOARD, AND THE FISH MARKETING ADVISORY BOARD FOR THEIR SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT.
TURNING TO MARICULTURE, WHICH WAS REGULATED UNDER THE MARINE FISH CULTURE ORDINANCE, MRS CHAN SAID IT HAD DEVELOPED RAPIDLY OVER THE PAST DECADE.
"BUT WE DO NEED TO ENSURE THAT ITS DEVELOPMENT IS SUCH THAT WHILST ITS PRODUCTIVE CAPACITY IS MAXIMISED. ITS IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT IS MINIMISED." SHE STRESSED.
SHE SAID THAT TO THIS END THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT HAD BEEN ASSISTING FISH FARMERS THROUGH SEMINARS AND OTHER MEANS TO ADOPT BETTER HUSBANDRY PRACTICES AND TECHNIQUES TO HELP REDUCE LOSSES DUE TO RED TIDES AND FISH DISEASES AS WELL AS TO REDUCE THE IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT.
A NUMBER OF STUDIES ON ARTIFICIAL FISHFEED, NUTRITION, PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF FISH DISEASES. AND A SCIENTIFIC APPRAISAL OF THE CARRYING CAPACITY OF FISH CULTURE ZONES HAD BEEN CARRIED OUT. SHE ADDED.
"WE ARE PRESENTLY REVIEWING OUR POLICY ON THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF MARICULTURE AND HAVE RECENTLY COMMISSIONED A CONSULTANCY STUDY ON THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF THE INDUSTRY." MRS CHAN SAID.
ON CAPTURE FISHERIES, SHE NOTED THAT ASIDE FROM THE PROVISION OF REGULAR TECHNICAL SUPPORT SERVICES. SOME ENCOURAGING PROGRESS HAD BEEN MADE IN THE TRIAL FISHING OF DEEP SEA PRAWNS.
PROGRESS WAS ALSO BEING MADE IN THE INTRODUCTION OF STEEL FISHING VESSELS AND THE TRAINING OF CREW FOR THEIR OPERATIONS HAD ALREADY COMMENCED. SHE ADDED.
TURNING TO FISH MARKETING, MRS CHAN POINTED MARKETING OF MARINE FISH THROUGH THE FISH MARKETING BEING ACTIVELY PROMOTED. WITH DUE ENFORCEMENT OF (MARKETING) ORDINANCE.
OUT THAT ORDERLY ORGANISATION WAS THE MARINE FISH
SHE SAID THAT EFFORTS AIMED AT COMBATTING ILLEGAL MARKETING, BOTH ON LAND AND AT SEA. HAD YIELDED ENCOURAGING RESULTS.
"IN PARTICULAR. ANTI-TRIAD MEASURES ALREADY INTRODUCED INTO THREE MAJOR MARKETS HAVE RESULTED IN IMPROVEMENTS IN MARKET ORDER. EFFICIENCY AND THROUGHPUT," SHE SAID.
SIMILAR MEASURES WOULD BE EXTENDED TO OTHER MARKETS IN THE NEAR FUTURE, SHE ADDED.
---0 -
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8, 1989
24 -
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FACTOR IMPORTANT IN PADS PLANNING
*****
THE CHEK LAP KOK STRATEGY WAS CHOSEN IN THE PORT DEVELOPMENT AS IT WOULD HAVE LESS ADVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL ANY OTHER OF THE SHORTLISTED STRATEGIES.
AND AIRPORT IMPACT THAN
THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING. ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, THE HON GRAHAM BARNES, SAID THIS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR'S POLICY ADDRESS.
MR BARNES STRESSED THAT AT EVERY STAGE THERE WOULD BE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FACTORS WOULD BE VERY IMPORTANT IN DETAILED PLANNING.
HE ALSO NOTED THAT A VERY REAL CONSEQUENCE OF THE PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (PADS) WAS A DECISIVE MOVE OF THE CENTRE OF GRAVITY OF HONG KONG TO THE WEST.
"BUT EVEN WITHOUT THE PADS IT WAS HAPPENING. MOST OF THE IMPORTANT NEIGHBOURHOOD DEVELOPMENTS OF GUANGDONG WITH WHICH WE HAVE SUCH STRONG ECONOMIC LINKS, ARE IN THE WEST AND NORTH-WEST OR HAVE HAD ACCESS TO HONG KONG FROM THE WEST." MR BARNES SAID.
HE ALSO MENTIONED THAT IN A RECENT VISIT TO THE CITIES AND COUNTIES IN THE PEARL RIVER DELTA WITH THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES. ONE OF THE STRONGEST IMPRESSIONS WITH WHICH THEY RETURNED WAS OF THE DEPENDENCE OF ALL THESE PLACES FOR ECONOMIC LEADERSHIP. PORT FACILITIES AND OVERSEAS CONTACTS ON THEIR COUNTRYMEN AND BUSINESS ACQUAINTANCES IN HONG KONG.
MR BARNES SAID HONG KONG MUST FOSTER CLOSE RELATIONSHIPS WITH THESE PLACES TO ENSURE THAT IT CONTINUED TO HOLD ITS PROPER PLACE AS THE MAJOR REGIONAL PORT AND SOURCE OF BUSINESS OF THE AREA.
"SO WE WILL GENERALLY BE DEVELOPING MORE OF A WESTERN BIAS IN OUR PLANNING. AND DURING 1990 AS WE STATED IN OUR PUBLICITY DOCUMENT FOR THE RURAL PLANNING AND IMPROVEMENT STRATEGY (RPIS). WE WILL BE PREPARING A NEW SUB-REGIONAL PLANNING STUDY FOR THE NORTH-WEST NEW TERRITORIES WHICH WILL PROVIDE FOR MUCH GREATER AREAS OF LAND TO BE ALLOCATED TO CONTAINER-RELATED AND PORT-RELATED USES," HE SAID.
FURTHER INDUSTRIAL AREAS WOULD BE PROVIDED IN TUEN MUN AND PERHAPS TIN SHUT WAI AND ALSO THROUGH PRIVATE SECTOR DEVELOPMENTS IN THE RPIS. A MUCH MORE DETERMINED EFFORT WOULD BE MADE TO SEGREGATE DIRTY INDUSTRY.
"ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN THIS AREA WILL IN TURN GIVE STRONG SUPPORT TO THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE HOUSING IN TIN SHUI WAI. WHERE THE FIRST BLOCKS WILL BE COMPLETED IN 1992.
"SO PRIORITY IS BEING GIVEN FOR THIS STUDY TO BE STARTED AS SOON AS THE METROPLAN STUDY IS COMPLETED IN APRIL." MR BARNES SAID.
/"THERE MAY .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 25 -
"THERE MAY ALSO BE OTHER ADJUSTMENTS. BECAUSE WE MUST INVEST SO HEAVILY IN THE PORT AND AIRPORT AND IN THE SUPPORTING TOWNS. IT MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY THE START OF SITE WORKS IN TSEUNG KWAN 0 STAGE III. PART OF WHICH IS RELATED TO THE BUILDING OF PUBLIC HOUSING IN TIU KENG LENG.
"BUT THE HOUSING AUTHORITY. WHICH IS KEEN TO REDEVELOP THIS AREA. IS LOOKING AT THE POSSIBILITY OF TAKING ON THE SCHEME ITSELF.
"IN ANY CASE. THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EASTERN SIDE OF TSEUNG KWAN 0 FOR AN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE SHOULD NOT BE AFFECTED AS IT IS LIKELY TO BE FINANCED FROM OTHER SOURCES.
"ANOTHER CONSEQUENCE OF DEVELOPMENT PRESSURES IN THE WEST IS THAT SAI KUNG. CLEARWATER BAY AND TAI PO INCLUDING THE DOUBLE HAVEN AREA BECOME MORE CRITICALLY NEEDED THAN EVER FOR RECREATION.
"WITH THE GAZETTING OF COUNTRY PARKS. GOOD DEVELOPMENT AND SEWERAGE SCHEMES IN OUR NEW TOWNS. AND WITH GAZETTING OF WATER QUALITY CONTROL ZONES IN TOLO HARBOUR AND PORT SHELTER. WE IN HONG KONG ARE PROBABLY DOING MORE OR LESS THE RIGHT THINGS TO CONSERVE THESE AREAS. ALTHOUGH OUR PROGRESS IS SLOW AND UNTIL WE HAVE NEW PLANNING LEGISLATION TO CONTROL LAND-USE IN THE AREAS OUTSIDE THF COUNTRY PARKS, WE ARE VERY VULNERABLE."
MR BARNES EXPRESSED CONCERN AT DEVELOPMENTS IN THE SHENZHEN ECONOMIC ZONE.
"THE ESTABLISHMENT OF SOME 13 KILOMETRES OF PORT ALONG YAN TIAN BAY AND THE ACTIVITIES WHICH WILL BE INTRODUCED TO SUPPORT IT MUST. I FEAR. HAVE SOME EFFECT ON WATER QUALITY THROUGHOUT MIRS BAY.
"SO IT WILL BE MY AIM IN THE FUTURE DISCUSSIONS ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION WHICH WE HAVE AGREED TO HOLD WITH THE GUANGDONG PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT TO SHOW THAT WE TOO HAVE A REAL INTEREST IN THE LOCAL WATER QUALITY.
"IT WAS A POINT WHICH I MADE RECENTLY IN OUR VISIT TO SHENZHEN ALSO." HE SAID.
ANOTHER AREA LIKELY TO BE SIGNIFICANTLY AFFECTED BY THE PADS WAS THE METROPOLITAN AREA COMPRISING HONG KONG. KOWLOON AND THE THREE CORNERED NEW TOWNS OF TSUEN WAN. KWAI CHUNG AND TSING YI.
"ALL WILL BE CRITICALLY AFFECTED BY THE PREDICATED PORT AND AIRPORT MOVES AND LIFTING OF HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS WILL ADD NEW DIMENSIONS TO DEVELOPMENT," MR BARNES SAID. %
“MOREOVER. ALL WILL BE INCREASINGLY HAMPERED IN THEIR FUNCTIONS BY THE OBSOLESCENCE OF MANY OF THE BUILDINGS AND STREETS.
“THE METROPLAN LIKE THE NORTH-WEST SUB-REGIONAL STUDY IS A STRATEGY ON WHICH TO BASE BOTH PHYSICAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT AND REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES.
/’’AND IT..........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 26 -
"AND IT HAS A SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON THE OVERALL QUALITY OF URBAN RENEWAL. IN WHICH OF COURSE THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION ILDC) IS PLAYING AND WILL PLAY ITS PART."
MR BARNES SAID THESE WERE COMPLEX REDEVELOPMENT SCHEMES WHICH AFFECT LARGE NUMBERS OF RESIDENTS.
TO ENSURE THAT EQUITABLE REHOUSING AND COMPENSATION ARRANGEMENTS WERE GIVEN TO THOSE AFFECTED BY LDC’S PROPOSALS. HE HAD THE RESPONSIBILITY TO ASSESS IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE CONCERNED DEPARTMENTS THE IMPACT OF EACH AND EVERY PROJECT PROPOSED.
"LDC PROJECTS ARE GIVEN PRIORITY WITHIN THE GOVERNMENT MACHINERY. A SPECIAL TEAM CALLED THE CO-ORDINATING URBAN RENEWAL TEAM HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED UNDER THE TOWN PLANNING OFFICE TO CO-ORDINATE WORK ON ALL THE LDC SCHEMES.
"WE ARE PRESENTLY DEALING WITH THE FIRST GENERATION OF SCHEMES WHICH ARE VERY LARGE AND WHICH WILL AFFECT A LOT OF PEOPLE. WE THINK THAT BETWEEN US WE ARE GETTING THEM RIGHT AND THAT IT WILL BE MUCH EASIER TO PROCESS SUBSEQUENT SCHEMES." HE SAID.
A SUM OF $390 MILLION HAD BEEN EARMARKED UNDER THE RESOURCE ALLOCATION SCHEME FOR EXPENDITURE ON RPIS CAPITAL WORKS IN 1989-94.
MR BARNES ALSO SAID THE IMPLICATION OF THE GOVERNMENT’S TWO PER CENT ESTABLISHMENT GROWTH CEILING ON THIS WAS NOW BEING EXAMINED.
"AS THE RPIS IS STAFF INTENSIVE IN NATURE. SOME PROJECTS MAY HAVE TO BE DEFERRED UNTIL STAFF ARE AVAILABLE." HE SAID.
FURTHER CONSULTATION WITH LOCAL INTERESTS WOULD TAKE PLACE IN MID TO LATE 1990 ONCE THE REVISED SCOPE OF RPIS HAD BEEN DETERMINED.
IN RESPONSE TO FEARS EXPRESSED BY ONE MEMBER. MR BARNES SAID THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT’S REQUESTS FOR CAPITAL AND RECURRENT RESOURCES. ALTHOUGH NOT UNSCATHED BY PRESSURES TO ECONOMISE. SEEMED LIKELY TO BE LARGELY SUCCESSFUL.
"WE WILL. HOWEVER, HAVE TO CONTINUE TO ASSESS OUR PRIORITIES VERY CAREFULLY AND IN THIS CONNECTION I LIKE TO ASSURE MEMBERS THAT THE GOVERNMENT IS FOLLOWING NO SLAVISH LINE OF ADHERENCE TO OVERSEAS STANDARDS.
"THE STANDARDS WHICH WE ARE ADOPTING ARE WHAT WE SEE AS PRACTICAL AND PRACTICABLE MEANS OF REDUCING POLLUTION, WITH TOP PRIORITY BEING GIVEN TO MEASURES WHICH HAVE A DIRECT EFFECT ON HEALTH.
"THESE ARE. THE REDUCTION OF SULPHUR CONTENT IN FUEL OIL AND THE REMOVAL OF THE 30 PER CENT ALLOWANCE ON EXISTING LIQUID EFFLUENT DISCHARGES." HE SAID.
-----0-----
/27
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 27 -
TERRITORIAL TRANSPORT PLANS OUTLINED
*****
PLANNING FOR THE ESSENTIAL TRANSPORT LINKS TO THE REPLACEMENT AIRPORT HAS STARTED AND THE OVERALL TERRITORIAL TRANSPORT NETWORK PLAN IS BEING REVISED. THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT. THE BON MICHAEL LEUNG. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS. MR LEUNG SAID THAT GUIDING THESE OVERALL DEVELOPMENTS WOULD BE THE WHITE PAPER ON TRANSPORT POLICY TO BE PUBLISHED EARLY NEXT YEAR.
HE SAID THE THREE KEY AIRPORT-RELATED TRANSPORT PROJECTS COMPRISED THE NORTH LANTAU EXPRESSWAY. THE LANTAU FIXED CROSSING. AND THE AIRPORT RAILWAY.
HE DESCRIBED THE NORTH LANTAU EXPRESSWAY AS A 12-KILOMETRE DUAL THREE-LANE CARRIAGEWAY ALONG THE NORTHERN COAST OF LANTAU WHOSE DESIGN WOULD BE REVIEWED EARLY’ NEXT YEAR WITH A VIEW TO STARTING CONSTRUCTION IN MID-1992.
MR LEUNG SAID THE LANTAU FIXED CROSSING WAS EVEN MORE COMPLEX THAN THE EXPRESSWAY. COMPRISING TWO CROSSINGS LINKING NORTH EAST LANTAU TO MA WAN AND FROM MA WAN TO TSING YI.
HE SAID: "ONE DESIGN UNDER CONSIDERATION IS A SUSPENSION BRIDGE WITH A SPAN OF ABOUT 1.1 KILOMETRES. THE LONGEST OF ITS KIND IN THE WORLD.
"THE ALTERNATIVE OF USING IMMERSED TUBE CONSTRUCTION IS ALSO BEING INVESTIGATED.
"ONCE A DECISION IS MADE ON EITHER A BRIDGE OR A TUNNEL. DETAILED DESIGN WILL BEGIN."
THERE WOULD BE AN INTERSECTION AT TSING YI WITH ROUTE 3. A MAJOR TRUNK ROAD RECOMMENDED BY THE SECOND COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORT STUDY (CTS-2).
"THE CONSTRUCTION OF ROUTE 3. INCLUDING THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY AND THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING. WILL NOW BE ADVANCED AND TAILORED TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NEW AIRPORT.
"A FEASIBILITY STUDY ON THE SECTION FROM YUEN LONG TO KWAI CHUNG HAS JUST BEEN COMPLETED AND DETAILED DESIGN WILL FOLLOW SOON.
"WE ARE ALSO STARTING A DETAILED FEASIBILITY STUDY ON THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING, TO BE COMPLETED WITHIN 12 MONTHS." MR LEUNG SAID.
HE SAID THE AIRPORT RAILWAY WAS CRITICAL TO THE TRANSPORT STRATEGY SINCE THE ROAD SYSTEM WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO ABSORB ALL THE TRAFFIC TO AND FROM THE NEW AIRPORT.
/"WE EXPECT
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 28 -
"WE EXPECT THE RAILWAY TO CARRY AS MANY AS 50 PER CENT OF AIRPORT TRAVELLERS." HE SAID.
IT WOULD BE PURPOSELY DESIGNED AND BUILT TO OFFER THE MAXIMUM COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE TO AIRPORT USERS.
THE TERMINUS AT THE AIRPORT WOULD FORM AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE AIR TERMINAL FACILITIES.
DEDICATED TRAINS WOULD RUN EXPRESS SERVICE FROM THE AIRPORT TO SPECIAL STATIONS IN THE URBAN AREA WHERE THE TRAIN PASSENGERS COULD CHANGE TO OTHER FORMS OF TRANSPORT.
THE RAILWAY WOULD ALSO PROVIDE A GENERAL PUBLIC SERVICE. BRINGING RELIEF TO THE NATHAN ROAD CORRIDOR. SERVING NEW DEVELOPMENTS ON THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION AND PROVIDING A THIRD CROSS HARBOUR LINK.
MR LEUNG SAID THE TWO RAIL CORPORATIONS HAD BEEN INVITED TO APPLY FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF THE AIRPORT RAILWAY.
A DECISION WOULD THEN BE TAKEN AS TO WHICH OPERATOR SHOULD BE SELECTED.
HE SAID AN AIRPORT RAILWAY EARLY NEXT YEAR TO DETERMINE THE VIABILITY OF THE RAILWAY.
FEASIBILITY STUDY WOULD BE LAUNCHED ALIGNMENT. CAPACITY AND FINANCIAL
MR LEUNG SAID THE MASSIVE LANTAU FIXED CROSSING. THE WESTERN ROUTE 3 WOULD RELY CONSIDERABLY ON
BUILDING PROGRAMME
HARBOUR CROSSING.
PRIVATE INVESTMENT.
INCLUDING THE
AND PARTS OF
WHILE THE EXACT DETAILS HAD YET TO BE WORKED ENVISAGED THAT OPEN INVITATIONS WOULD BE MADE SOME TIME NEXT PROVIDE SECTOR CONSORTIA. BOTH LOCAL AND OVERSEAS. TO TAKE
OUT. HE
YEAR TO
PART IN
THESE PROJECTS.
ON EARLY PLANNING OF THE INTERFACE BETWEEN VARIOUS PUBLIC TRANSPORT MODES WHEN LANTAU WAS OPENED UP BY' THE ROAD AND RAILWAY. MR LEUNG SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS EXAMINING THE LIKELY GROWTH IN RECREATIONAL TRAVEL. HAVING REGARD TO THE POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS IN LANTAU AND THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT.
"ONCE THE OUTCOME OF THIS STUDY IS KNOWN. WE WILL LOOK INTO THE ROLE OF LANTAU TAXIS AND BUSES. THE FERRIES AND THEIR INTEGRATION WITH OTHER TRANSPORT SERVICES OUTSIDE LANTAU.
"OUR AIM IS TO MAP OUT A PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICE NETWORK WHICH IS BALANCED, ADEQUATE AND COMPATIBLE WITH THE CAPACITY OF EXISTING AND PLANNED LOCAL ROADS ON LANTAU.” HE SAID.
TURNING TO THE NON-AIRPORT RELATED TRANSPORT PROGRAMME. MR LEUNG SAID ALL ESSENTIAL WORKS WOULD PROCEED AS PLANNED.
/MORE PROJECTS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 29 -
MORE PROJECTS WERE UNDER CONSTRUCTION AND MOST WOULD BE COMPLETED WITHIN THE NEXT TWO YEARS. SUCH AS ROUTE 5 IN MARCH 1990. TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL AND THE KWUN TONG BYPASS BY MID-1991.
MR LEUNG SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS ALSO EXAMINING VARIOUS CROSS KOWLOON ROAD SCHEMES TO IMPROVE EAST-WEST TRAFFIC FLOW.
THESE INCLUDED THE CORRIDORS ALONG LUNG CHEUNG ROAD AND CHING CHEUNG ROAD. BOUNDARY STREET AND PRINCE EDWARD ROAD. ARGYLE STREET AND WATERLOO ROAD. AND GASCOIGNE ROAD AND JORDAN ROAD.
“ON HONG KONG ISLAND. THE PROPOSED ROUTE 7 AND THE CENTRAL-WAN CHAI BYPASS WILL PROVIDE A CONTINUOUS EXPRESSWAY ALONG THE NORTHERN AND WESTERN SHORES OF THE ISLAND."
TURNING TO THE PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE GREEN PAPER ON TRANSPORT POLICY, MR LEUNG SAID THE OVERWHELMING SUPPORT FOR AN ADEQUATE INFRASTRUCTURE WOULD BE INCORPORATED IN THE WHITE PAPER BEING DRAFTED.
THE POLICY INTENTIONS FOR BETTER CO-ORDINATION OF LAND USE AND TRANSPORT PLANNING TO REDUCE PRESSURE ON THE TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES WOULD ALSO BE SET OUT.
THE RELATIVE PRIORITY OF THE THREE PROPOSED RAIL PROJECTS, IDENTIFIED IN THE GREEN PAPER - THE NORTH WEST NEW TERRITORIES LINK TO THE URBAN AREA. THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY EXTENSION TO TSEUNG KWAN O AND A THIRD CROSS-HARBOUR CROSSING WOULD BE FURTHER EXAMINED. TAKING FULL ACCOUNT OF THE AIRPORT RAILWAY.
ON THE CHOICE OF RAILWAY SYSTEM FOR FUTURE RAILWAY LINK. MR LEUNG SAID A RAIL DEVELOPMENT STUDY WOULD BE UNDERTAKEN BEFORE THE END OF NEXT YEAR IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE COMPLETION OF THE AIRPORT RAILWAY FEASIBILITY STUDY.
’’THIS OVERALL REVIEW WILL INCLUDE FUTURE RAIL FREIGHT REQUIREMENTS AND PRIORITIES FOR THE THREE RAIL PROJECTS MENTIONED EARLIER," HE SAID.
AS REGARDS THE STRATEGY FOR EXPANDING AND IMPROVING PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES. MR LEUNG SAID THE GENERAL CONSENSUS WAS THAT THE MASS CARRIERS SHOULD CONTINUE TO FORM THE BACKBONE OF THE SYSTEM. MORE AND BETTER USE BE MADE OF THE OFF-STREET MODES, AND THE QUALITY OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE IMPROVED.
THE INTER-MODAL CO-ORDINATION POLICY SHOULD ALLOW MORE FLEXIBILITY AND COMPETITION BETWEEN MODES AND ENCOURAGE INNOVATIVE SERVICES. COMMENTS ON THIS WOULD BE FULLY REFLECTED IN THE WHITE PAPER.
MR LEUNG SAID THAT PUBLIC RESPONSE ON TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT WAS MOST ENCOURAGING.
/THE PUBLIC .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
THE PUBLIC ACCEPTED IN PRINCIPLE THE NEED FOR MANAGING ROAD USE - MAKING EFFECTIVE USE OF ROAD SPACE: GIVING PRIORITY TO MORE EFFICIENT AND ESSENTIAL ROAD USERS; AND MANAGING TRAVEL DEMAND TO A LEVEL WITH WHICH THE ROAD SYSTEM COULD COPE.
MR LEUNG SAID THE PUBLIC ALSO RECOGNISED THE NEED TO MANAGE GOODS VEHICLE TRAFFIC. NOW ACCOUNTING FOR ABOUT HALF OF THE TOTAL ROAD TRAFFIC.
THERE WAS HENCE GENERAL SUPPORT FOR MEASURES TO DISCOURAGE THE USE OF LIGHT GOODS VANS FOR PERSONAL TRANSPORT.
THERE WERE HOWEVER. RESERVATIONS ON USING TAXATION MEASURES TO MANAGE THE GROWTH OF THE LARGER GOODS VEHICLES.
“WE WILL EXAMINE MORE CLOSELY THE EFFECTS OF SUCH MEASURES ON THE ECONOMY. AND OTHER OPTIONS SUCH AS ENCOURAGING MORE USE OF RAIL AND SEA FREIGHT TRANSPORT. GOODS DELIVERY OUTSIDE THE PEAK HOURS AND USE OF LARGER VEHICLES WITH MORE EFFICIENT LOADING EQUIPMENT.
“A FREIGHT TRANSORT STUDY TO ADDRESS THESE ISSUES IS BEING CONSIDERED." HE SAID.
TURNING TO THE DIVIDED PUBLIC VIEWS ON ROAD USE MANAGEMENT. MR LEUNG SAID ALTHOUGH SOME RECOGNISED THE NEED FOR MANAGING THE GROWTH AND USAGE OF VEHICLES. A MORE POPULAR VIEW WAS THAT FISCAL MEASURES SHOULD APPLY ONLY AS A LAST RESORT AND PRIORITY SHOULD FIRST BE GIVEN TO IMPROVING THE TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT.
“THIS SENTIMENT IS PERFECTLY UNDERSTANDABLE. HOWEVER. WE MUST ALSO BE REALISTIC.
“THE TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMME IDENTIFIED IN THE GREEN PAPER AND NOW ENHANCED SUBSTANTIALLY BY THE PORT AND AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY-RELATED PROJECTS IS THE MOST AMBITIOUS EVER PLANNED AND WILL TAX THE ECONOMY AND THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TO THEIR LIMITS.” HE SAID.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT ALREADY CARRIES 87 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL DAILY PERSON TRIPS. THERE WAS A LIMIT ON HOW FAR FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS ALONE COULD REDUCE PRIVATE CAR TRIPS.
“HENCE. WHILE RECOGNISING THE LEGITIMATE ASPIRATION FOR CAR OWNERSHIP. WE MUST PURSUE ROAD MANAGEMENT MEASURES TO CONTAIN VEHICLE GROWTH AND USAGE TO A LEVEL WITH WHICH THE ROAD SYSTEM CAN COPE. IF WE ARE TO MAINTAIN A REASONABLE DEGREE OF MOBILITY.” MR LEUNG SAID.
-----0------
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
51
SEM CONFIDENT TERTIARY EDUCATION TARGET CAN BE ACHIEVED t t t * * t
DETAILED EXAMINATION OF RESOURCES. SPACE. MANPOWER AND MANAGEMENT BEFORE THE TARGET OF 15,000 FIRST YEAR, FIRST DEGREE PLACES BY 1994-95 WAS ANNOUNCED. GAVE GROUNDS FOR CONFIDENCE THAT IT COULD BE ACHIEVED, THE SECRETARY' FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, THE HON K.Y. YEUNG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH, MR YEUNG SAID HIS DISCUSSIONS WITH THE UNIVERSITY AND POLYTECHNIC-GRANTS COMMITTEE (UPGC) LAST SEPTEMBER HAD CONFIRMED THIS VIEW.
PRIORITY WOULD BE SECURED IN THE ALLOCATION OF RESOURCES FOR AN EXPANSION PROGRAMME INVOLVING $1.7 BILLION IN CAPITAL EXPENDITURE AND $2.8 BILLION IN RECURRENT EXPENDITURE UP TO 1994-9^. HE SAID.
WHEN DETAILED ESTIMATES WERE AVAILABLE THEY WOULD BE PUT TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE FOR APPROVAL, MR YEUNG ADDED,
"WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT SUFFICIENT CAPACITY CAN BE FOUND FOR THE EXPANSION OF DEGREE PLACES AND FOR SUB-DEGREE COURSES TO BE TRANSFERRED FROM THE POLYTECHNICS TO THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL (VTC).
"THE UPGC IS ALSO CONSIDERING WHETHER CERTAIN POST SECONDARY
COLLEGES COULD QUALIFY FOR DEGREE WORK.” HE SAID.
"MORE IMPORTANTLY. I SHARE MEMBERS’ CONCERN THAT WE SHOULD BE ABLE TO RECRUIT AN ADEQUATE COMPLEMENT OF STAFF OF THE RIGHT CALIBRE.
"DESPITE THE EVENTS OF RECENT MONTHS, THERE HAS BEEN NO FALLING OFF OF INTEREST IN ACADEMIC EMPLOYMENT FROM EITHER LOCAL OR OVERSEAS SOURCES," MR YEUNG SAID.
"INDEED, THE EXPERIENCE OF OUR TERTIARY’ INSTITUTIONS SUGGESTS THAT THERE ARE SUBSTANTIAL OVERSEAS SOURCES THAT WE HAVE ONLY JUST BEGUN TO TAP." HE ADDED.
MR YEUNG SAID HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS WOULD BE ABLE TO COMPETE SUCCESSFULLY FOR STAFF. GIVEN COMPETITIVE AND APPROPRIATE TERMS OF SERVICE, AND ALSO THE INCENTIVE OF ADEQUATE FUNDING OF RESEARCH WORK.
TURNING TO A SUGGESTION THAT THERE MIGHT BE INSUFFICIENT SIXTH FORM LEAVERS OF MATRICULATION STANDARD TO FILL THE LARGE NUMBER OF NEW UNDERGRADUATE PLACES. MR YEUNG SAID BASED ON HISTORICAL TRENDS AND DEMOGRAPHIC ESTIMATES THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS WITH TWO ’A’ LEVEL PASSES OR MORE SHOULD RISE TO AT LEAST 23 PER CENT OF THE TARGET AGE GROUP BY 1994-95.
"THUS A PROVISION OF FIRST DEGREE PLACES FOR 18 PER CENT OF THE AGE GROUP IS REALISTIC." HE SAID.
/"THIS IS .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
32 -
'‘THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THAT WE HAVE UNDERTAKEN AN EXPANSION OF TERTIARY EDUCATION ON SO MASSIVE AND COMPLEX A SCALE. AND WITHIN SUCH A SHORT TIME FRAME.
"IT WILL INEVITABLY REQUIRE CAREFUL PLANNING AND CO-ORDINATION. ACCORDINGLY. IN ADDITIOxN TO THE PLANS THE UPGC AND THE VTC MUST THEMSELVES MAKE. I AM CHAIRING A STEERING GROUP TO OVERSEE AND COORDINATE THE VARIOUS COMPONENTS OF OUR EXPANSION PLAN,” MR YEUNG SAID.
THE GROUP INCLUDES THE CHAIRMEN OF THE UPGC AND THE VTC. AND OFFICIALS OF THE EDUCATION AND MANPOWER BRANCH. THE FINANCE BRANCH AND THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
NOTING THAT CAUTION HAD BEEN EXPRESSED THAT THE EXPANSION OF DEGREE PLACES SHOULD NOT BE ACCOMPANIED BY THE FALL IN AVERAGE STANDARDS WHICH FOLLOWED THE RAPID GROWTH OF SECONDARY EDUCATION IN THE 1980’3, THE SECRETARY SAID NEITHER HE NOR THE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS UNDERESTIMATED THE CHALLENGE.
HE POINTED OUT THAT DIFFERENT TEACHING METHODS MIGHT BE NEEDED TO CATER FOR A WIDER RANGE OF INTEREST AND ABILITY. AS SUGGESTED BY MANY MEMBERS DURING THE DEBATE.
MR YEUNG EXPLAINED THAT THERE WERE GOOD REASONS FOR OPTIMISM AS CIRCUMSTANCES NOW WERE DIFFERENT FROM THOSE A DECADE AGO. WHEN SUBSIDISED SECONDARY PLACES WERE RAPIDLY CREATED BY BUYING FROM SCHOOLS WHICH COULD NOT. IN MANY CASES, MEET THE STANDARDS OF THE AIDED SECTOR.
"THIS WILL NOT BE THE CASE IN OUR PROGRAMME FOR TERITARY EXPANSION. BECAUSE THE EXPANSION WILL BE ACHIEVED THROUGH INSTITUTIONS WITH PROVEN TRACK RECORDS OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE,” HE SAID.
"THESE INSTITUTIONS HAVE WELL-ESTABLISHED SYSTEMS OF QUALITY CONTROL,” HE ADDED.
"IN THE CASE OF THE POLYTECHNICS AND THE HONG KONG BAPTIST COLLEGE. THERE IS ALSO ASSESSMENT BY AN EXTERNAL ACCREDITING BODY WHICH ADVISES THE UPGC ON WHETHER THE DEGREES THEY OFFERED REACHED INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS.
"THIS EXTERNAL ASSESSMENT FUNCTION WILL BE ASSUMED BY THE HONG KONG COUNCIL FOR ACADEMIC ACCREDITATION IN EARLY 1990,” MR YEUNG SAID. ADDING THAT THE NECESSARY LEGISLATION WOULD BE PRESENTED SOON TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
THE SECRETARY NOTED THAT A VARIETY OF STUDIES AND POLICY PROPOSALS WERE BEING DEVELOPED BY THE EDUCATION COMMISSION AND OTHER ADVISORY BODIES.
AGREEING THAT A LOGICAL AGENDA SHOULD BE SET UP FOR THESE ADVISORY BODIES AND FOR THE GOVERNMENT ITSELF, MR YEUNG SAID THAT IN ITS NEXT REPORT TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1990. THE EDUCATION COMMISSION WOULD RECOMMEND SUCH AN AGENDA IN THE FORM OF A FRAMEWORK IN WHICH ISSUES COULD BE CONSIDERED IN AN ORDERLY AND EFFICIENT MANNER.
/HE SAID........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 55 -
HE SAID THE COMMISSION WOULD TAKE AS A BASIS FOR. THE FRAMEWORK THE STRATEGY WHICH THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAD ENDORSED AND WHICH WAS OUTLINED IN THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH.
"THIS FRAMEWORK WILL THEN CONSTITUTE OUR MASTER-PLAN FOR EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE 1990'S." HE SAID.
------0--------
MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS TO SCHOOL SECTOR * * * * *
THE BOLDNESS OF THE GOVERNMENT’S PLANS FOR TERTIARY EXPANSION MAY HAVE DRAWN ATTENTION AWAY FROM THE MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SCHOOL SECTOR. THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER. THE HON K.Y. YEUNG. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
NOTING THE CONCERN HAD BEEN EXPRESSED THAT THE TERTIARY EDUCATION COULD ONLY BE ACHIEVED AT THE EXPENSE IN THE SCHOOLS. MR YEUNG SAID: "THIS IS NOT THE CASE".
EXPANSION OF OF EDUCATION
"OUR STRATEGY FOR THE 1990’S IS BASED ON TWO PREMISES. WHICH ARE THAT THE QUALITY OF OUR TERTIARY EDUCATION IS NOT IN DOUBT. BUT THE NUMBER OF PLACES AVAILABLE HAS FALLEN FAR SHORT OF SOCIETY’S DEMANDS: AND THAT THE NUMBER OF PLACES AVAILABLE IN THE SCHOOL SYSTEM IS ADEQUATE. BUT IMPROVEMENTS SHOULD BE MADE TO ITS QUALITY." HE SAID.
MR YEUNG POINTED OUT THAT A HARD DECISION HAD TO BE TAKEN ABOUT PRIORITIES WHEN IT CAME TO THE QUESTION OF EXPANDING THE PUBLIC PROVISION OF EDUCATION TO INCLUDE KINDERGARTENS.
"WE WILL IMPROVE TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES TEACHERS BY PROVIDING REGIONAL TRAINING CENTRES COURSES AT MORE CONVENIENT HOURS.
FOR KINDERGARTEN
AND BY OPERATING
"WE WILL ALSO SEPARATE FROM THE SOCIAL WELFARE SYSTEM THE ASSISTANCE WE NOW GIVE TO NEEDY PARENTS. AND FROM SEPTEMBER NEXT YEAR WE WILL INTRODUCE A SCHEME OF FEE REMISSIONS WHICH SHOULD BENEFIT TWICE AS MANY FAMILIES." HE SAID.
THE SECRETARY NOTED THAT THE NEW SCHEME. WHICH WAS WARMLY WELCOMED BY THE BOARD OF EDUCATION. SHOULD ENABLE KINDERGARTENS TO INCREASE THEIR INCOME. AND HENCE ALLOW THEM TO EMPLOY BETTER QUALIFIED TEACHERS.
IN SECONDARY EDUCATION. MR YEUNG SAID ONE OF THE MAJOR DEFECTS ARISING FROM THE RAPID INTRODUCTION OF FREE AND COMPULSORY EDUCATION WAS NOW BEING REMEDIED BY RAISING THE STANDARDS OF PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN THE BOUGHT PLACE SCHEME.
/"A VIGOROUS .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
"A VIGOROUS START WILL BE MADE NEXT YEAR UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF THE NEW PRIVATE SCHOOLS REVIEW COMMITTEE. WHICH WILL ALSO MOVE QUICKLY TO SET UP THE NEW DIRECT SUBSIDY SCHEME." HE SAID.
A NEW CURRICULUM FOR THE SIXTH FORM WOULD BE AVAILABLE BY SEPTEMBER 1992.
"THIS BROADER AND MORE FLEXIBLE CURRICULUM IS DESIGNED TO GIVE STUDENTS A LIBERAL PREPARATION FOR LIFE." THE SECRETARY SAID.
HE NOTED THAT THERE WAS A SUGGESTION THAT THIS POLICY BE REVIEWED AS A HIGHER PERCENTAGE OF SIXTH FORM LEAVERS WOULD BE GOING ON TO TERTIARY EDUCATION.
"BUT THIS NEW CURRICULUM WILL BENEFIT NOT ONLY EMPLOYERS BUT ALSO OUR TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS. WHICH HAVE LONG ADVOCATED A BROADER-BASED EDUCATION FOR THEIR MATRICULANTS." HE ADDED.
IN ADDITION TO THE NOISE ABATEMENT MEASURES TO SCHOOLS MENTIONED IN THE GOVERNOR'S ADDRESS. STEPS WOULD BE TAKEN TO IMPLEMENT OTHER IMPROVEMENTS TO THE TEACHING ENVIRONMENT. MR YEUNG SAID.
"THESE INCLUDE AIR CONDITIONING SCHOOL STAFF ROOMS AND THE PROVISION OF PHOTOCOPIERS. MINOR THOUGH THESE MEASURES NIGHT APPEAR. THEY CAN IMPROVE BOTH PRODUCTIVITY AND MORALE." HE ADDED.
- - 0
EDUCATION PROBLEMS MUST BE FACED AND RESOLVED
******
THE NEED FOR A BROADER CURRICULUM. THE IMPORTANCE OF LANGUAGE STANDARDS AND THE PROBLEMS FACED BY THE TEACHING PROFESSION ARE ISSUES THAT AFFECT ALL SECTORS OF THE SCHOOL SYSTEM. AND WHILE SOLUTIONS WILL. IN SOME CASES, BE CONTROVERSIAL. THEY MUST BE FACED AND RESOLVED, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER. THE HON K.Y. YEUNG. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR YEUNG NOTED THAT CONCERN HAD BEEN EXPRESSED THAT THE QUALITY AND MORALE OF THE TEACHING PROFESSION NEEDED TO BE RAISED AND THAT WE MUST ENSURE THAT SUFFICIENT YOUNG PEOPLE CONTINUED TO TAKE UP TEACHING AS A CAREER.
"I BELIEVE THAT WE STILL HAVE A STRONG CORE OF EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALS. BUT WE CANNOT BE COMPLACENT." HE SAID.
"THE EDUCATION COMMISSION HAS BEGUN A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY OF THE TEACHING PROFESSION. THIS STUDY WILL COVER THE FUTURE OF NONGRADUATES IN THE PROFESSION AND THE ROLE OF THE COLLEGES OF EDUCATION." HE ADDED.
/’’IT WILL
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 35 -
"IT WILL ALSO REVIEW THE MEASURES TAKEN IN RESPECT OF GRADUATE TEACHERS. AND WILL CONSIDER POSSIBLE IMPROVEMENTS TO THEIR TRAINING AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT." HE SAID.
MR YEUNG NOTED THAT ANOTHER AREA FOCUSSED ON WAS THE VEXED QUESTION OF MEDIA OF INSTRUCTION AND OF THE STANDARDS OF CHINESE AND ENGLISH.
"VIEWS ARE NOW BEING SOUGHT ON THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WORKING PARTY'S REPORT ON LANGUAGE IMPROVEMENT MEASURES." HE SAID.
"THE CRUX OF THE MATTER IS THAT. ON THE ONE HAND, A LARGE NUMBER OF CHILDREN CAN LEARN MORE EFFECTIVELY IN THE MEDIUM OF CHINESE BUT. ON THE OTHER HAND, THE IMPROVEMENT OF ENGLISH STANDARDS IS ESSENTIAL FOR OUR TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS AS WELL AS FOR MANY EMPLOYERS." HE NOTED.
"THE PRESENT SITUATION, WHERE MANY SCHOOLS USE A MIXTURE OF BOTH LANGUAGES. RESULTS IN STUDENTS MASTERING NEITHER LANGUAGE SATISFACTORILY." MR YEUNG POINTED OUT.
"IT MAY BE THAT SOME FORM OF STREAMING PROVIDES THE ANSWER. I NOTE THAT STREAMING WOULD NOT BE ACCEPTABLE IN THE ABSENCE OF A VIABLE CHINESE LANGUAGE.
"BUT LET US SUSPEND JUDGEMENT. WE HAVE NOT TAKEN A FIRM VIEW ON THIS ISSUE." HE SAID.
WHEN THE RESULTS OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S REPORT WERE KNOWN. THE ADVICE OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND THE EDUCATION COMMISSION WOULD BE SOUGHT. BEFORE FORMULATING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL. MR YEUNG SAID.
THE SECRETARY NOTED THAT THE LANGUAGE ISSUE WAS AN EXAMPLE OF THE GENERAL PRINCIPLE THAT EVERY CHILD HAD THE RIGHT TO BE EDUCATED IN THE WAY FROM WHICH HE OR SHE COULD MOST BENEFIT.
"SINCE THE INTRODUCTION OF FREE AND COMPULSORY EDUCATION. A WIDER VARIETY OF CHILDREN HAVE COME TO SCHOOL THAN EVER BEFORE.
"WE NEED TO REFLECT THIS VARIETY IN CURRICULUM. TYPES OF SCHOOL AND METHODS OF TEACHING. THE DIRECT SUBSIDY SCHEME IS AN IMPORTANT STEP IN THIS DIRECTION. BUT IT WILL APPLY ONLY TO A LIMITED NUMBER OF SCHOOLS." MR YEUNG SAID.
"THE EDUCATION COMMISSION IS THEREFORE LOOKING AT MEASURES WHICH WILL CATER TO STUDENTS IN ALL SCHOOLS FOR WHOM THE USUAL CURRICULUM IS NOT IDEAL.
"THESE INCLUDE CHILDREN WITH LOWER ACADEMIC ABILITIES. CHILDREN WITH SERIOUS BEHAVIOURAL OR EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS AND, AT THE OTHER END OF THE SPECTRUM. CHILDREN WITH PARTICULAR TALENTS AND THOSE WHO ARE ACADEMICALLY GIFTED." HE ADDED.
/MR YEUNG
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 36 -
MR YEUNG SAID IN ADDITION TO REVIEWING THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM. IT WAS TIMELY TO START CONSIDERING WHAT STANDARDS WE EXPECTED OUR PUPILS, TEACHERS AND SCHOOLS TO ACHIEVE AND TO HAVE OBJECTIVE MEANS OF ASSESSING THEIR PERFORMANCE AGAINST THESE STANDARDS.
"I BELIEVE THAT THERE IS A CASE FOR DEVELOPING A SERIES OF TESTS IN RESPECT OF CORE SUBJECTS AT THE KEY LEVELS OF THE SCHOOL SYSTEM.
’'THESE TESTS WOULD NOT BE PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS AND WOULD CERTAINLY NOT STAND IN THE WAY OF STUDENTS’ PROGRESS THROUGH SCHOOL." HE SAID.
"BUT THEY WOULD ALLOW US TO MONITOR THE PERFORMANCE OF PUPILS. TEACHERS AND SCHOOLS AND TO DEPLOY RESOURCES MORE EFFECTIVELY AND FAIRLY." HE ADDED.
MR YEUNG SAID PROPOSALS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SUCH TESTS WOULD BE GIVEN CAREFUL CONSIDERATION BY THE EDUCATION COMMISSION DURING ITS STUDY OF CURRICULA AND BEHAVIOURAL PROBLEMS.
TURNING TO THE TERTIARY SECTOR. THE SECRETARY SAID RESEARCH FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES WAS AN IMPORTANT MEANS OF ATTRACTING AND RETAINING HIGH-QUALITY ACADEMICS. AND OF IMPROVING SCHOLARSHIP.
"SUCH ACTIVITY JUSTIFIES THE INVESTMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS BECAUSE IT CONTRIBUTES TO OUR EDUCATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE. BUT I AGREE THAT THE BUILDING UP OF RESEARCH CAPABILITY MUST ALSO HAVE REGARD TO THE NEEDS OF THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY." MR YEUNG SAID.
HE SAID THE ADVICE OF THE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD WOULD SOON BE SOUGHT ON THE EXTENT TO WHICH CONTRACT RESEARCH COULD LEGITIMATELY BE SUPPORTED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
-------0----------
COMMITTEE ON MANPOWER REQUIREMENTS SET UP
******
AN INTER-DEPARTMENTAL MANPOWER COMMITTEE ADVISE THE GOVERNMENT ON MANPOWER REQUIREMENTS IN SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, THE HON K.Y LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HAS BEEN SET UP TO THE MEDIUM TERM. THE . YEUNG. SAID IN THE
MR YEUNG SAID THE COMMITTEE HAD ALSO BEEN ASKED TO OF EXISTING TRAINED MANPOWER, TO REVIEW EMPLOYMENT TRENDS INDUSTRIES AND PROFESSIONS AND TO PREPARE BROAD ESTIMATES REQUIREMENTS BY OCCUPATION.
TAKE STOCK IN TRADES, OF FUTURE
OCCUPATION.
"SUBJECT BODIES, THESE TRAINING TERMS, STUDENT NUMBER SAID.
10 THE ADVICE OF VARIOUS COMMITTEES AND PROFESSIONAL ESTIMATES. EXPRESSED IN EDUCATIONAL AND VOCATIONAL WILL THEN BE FED TO THE UPGC AND THE VTC. IN TIME FOR TARGETS FOR THE NEXT TRIENNIUM TO BE DRAWN UP," HE
/’’THIS EXERCISE
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 57 -
"THIS EXERCISE WILL BE ROLLED FORWARD ANNUALLY." HE ADDED.
MR YEUNG POINTED OUT THAT HONG KONG DID HAVE A POLICY OF ACHIEVING A LEVEL OF STATUTORY PROVISION IN EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS AND INDUSTRIAL SAFETY BROADLY COMPARABLE TO THE BEST PREVAILING IN THE ASIA PACIFIC REGION.
"WE AIM TO ACHIEVE A NUMBER OF IMPROVEMENTS DURING THE CURRENT SESSION.
"THESE INCLUDE THE SETTING UP OF AN EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION ASSISTANCE SCHEME. VARIOUS IMPROVEMENTS TO THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE. NEW LEVELS OF COMPENSATION UNDER THE EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION ORDINANCE AND THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) ORDINANCE. AND AN INCREASE IN PAID ANNUAL LEAVE," MR YEUNG SAID.
"IN ADDITION. A STEADY STREAM OF FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS IS BEING PUT TO THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD AND PROPOSALS WILL CONTINUE TO BE MADE TO THIS COUNCIL.
"OUR COMMITMENT. THEREFORE. TO A SATISFIED AND PRODUCTIVE WORKFORCE WILL CONTINUE INTO THE NEXT DECADE." HE ADDED.
-----0-----
REVIEW OF SOCIAL WELFARE PROGRAMME AREAS
*****
THE FORTHCOMING REVIEW WHICH WILL LEAD TO A NEW WHITE PAPER ON SOCIAL WELFARE WILL PROVIDE THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A COMPREHENSIVE REEXAMINATION OF ALL PROGRAMME AREAS IN THE SOCIAL WELFARE FIELD. THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, THE HON T.H. CHAU. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS, MR CHAU SAID HE AGREED THAT IN PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE THERE WAS A NEED TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF HONG KONG’S SOCIO-ECONOMIC CIRCUMSTANCES AS WELL AS THE DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGES IN OUR SOCIETY.
"IN CONDUCTING THE REVIEW, WE WILL ENSURE THAT THE VIEWS OF THE VOLUNTARY WELFARE SECTOR ARE INDEED TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT. NOT LEAST THROUGH NON-OFFICIAL MEMBERSHIP ON THE WORKING PARTY TO BE CHAIRED BY THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE.
"THERE WILL ALSO BE AMPLE OPPORTUNITY FOR SUGGESTIONS TO BE PUT FORWARD FOR CONSIDERATION," HE SAID.
THE MECHANICS OF THE REVIEW WOULD BE DISCUSSED WITH THE SOCIAL
WELFARE ADVISORY COMMITTEE LATER THIS MONTH.
/"BUT FOR
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
’’BUT FOR THE AVOIDANCE OF DOUBT, I WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO EMPAHSISE THAT THE REVIEW WILL BE CONFINED TO SOCIAL WELFARE MATTERS AND WILL NOT EMBRACE MORE WIDE-RANGING ISSUES WHICH ARE OUTSIDE MY PURVIEW SUCH AS, FOR EXAMPLE, RETIREMENT BENEFIT SCHEMES," MR CHAU SAID.
ON THE QUESTION OF MANPOWER DIFFICULTIES IN THE SOCIAL WELFARE FIELD. THE SECRETARY SAID A PACKAGE OF BOTH LONG AND SHORT-TERM MEASURES WERE IN HAND TO TACKLE THE SHORTAGE OF TRAINED SOCIAL WORKERS.
"FURTHERMORE. THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE WITH RESPONSIBILITY FOR EXAMINING SOCIAL WORK MANPOWER PLANNING AND TRAINING ISSUES WILL BE INVITED IN THE NEXT MONTH OR SO TO CONSIDER A NEW SET OF MANPOWER PROJECTIONS, AND WE WILL THEN SEEK THE VIEWS OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE ADVISORY COMMITTEE," MR CHAU SAID.
"IN THIS CONNECTION. I MIGHT MENTION THAT I AM UNAWARE OF ANY EVIDENCE TO SUPPORT THE CONTENTION THAT MANPOWER PROBLEMS ARE MORE ACUTE IN THE VOLUNTARY WELFARE SECTOR.
"RATHER. AVAILABLE INFORMATION SEEMS TO SUGGEST THAT AT LEAST AS FAR AS TRAINED SOCIAL WORKERS ARE CONCERNED, VACANCY AND WASTAGE RATES IN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE VOLUNTARY SECTORS ARE VERY SIMILAR." HE ADDED.
THE CURRENT MANPOWER SHORTAGE UNFORTUNATELY MEANT THAT SOCIAL WORKERS OFTEN FACED CASELOADS WHICH WERE STILL TOO HIGH. THE SECRETARY NOTED.
"WE HAVE NOT YET BEEN ABLE TO IMPLEMENT FULLY OUR TARGET STAFFING RATIOS. ALTHOUGH PROGRESS HAS BEEN MADE IN SOME AREAS AND FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS CAN BE EXPECTED.
"QUITE SEPARATELY, A STUDY IS BEING UNDERTAKEN OF PROCEDURES AND WORKLOADS IN OUR SOCIAL SECURITY FIELD UNITS AND PROVISION HAS BEEN MADE FOR THE CREATION OF ADDITIONAL POSTS FOR THESE UNITS IN THE NEXT FINANCIAL YEAR." MR CHAU SAID.
TURNING TO REHABILITATION MATTERS AND COMMENTS MADE ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT'S POLICY ON EX-MENTAL PATIENTS WITH A DISPOSITION TO VIOLENCE. THE SECRETARY SAID THE OVERALL OBJECTIVE IN THIS REGARD. AS ENDORSED BY THE REHABILITATION DEVELOPMENT CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE, WAS TO ASSIST THE INTEGRATION OF DISCHARGED MENTAL PATIENTS INTO THE COMMUNITY THROUGH THE PROVISION OF A WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES.
"APART FROM HALF-WAY HOUSES. SUCH SERVICES INCLUDE VOCATIONAL TRAINING FOR BASIC WORK SKILLS, SHELTERED EMPLOYMENT OR ASSISTANCE IN SEEKING OPEN EMPLOYMENT. COMPASSIONATE RE-HOUSING. AS WELL AS SOCIAL CLUBS AND ACTIVITY CENTRES.
"WHILE THERE IS CURRENTLY A SHORTFALL IN THE PROVISION OF HALFWAY HOUSES, ANOTHER FIVE SUCH FACILITIES ARE UNDER ACTIVE PLANNING. TOGETHER, THESE WILL PROVIDE AN ADDITIONAL 380 PLACES OF WHICH ONE-QUARTER WILL BE SET ASIDE FOR THE ADMISSION OF EX-MENTAL PATIENTS WITH A RECORD OF OR DISPOSITION TO VIOLENCE." MR CHAU SAID.
/’'HOWEVER f COMMUNITY .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 59 -
“HOWEVER, COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE ARE ALSO ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS IN OUR EFFORTS TO ACHIEVE INTEGRATION IN THIS FIELD.
"A VARIETY OF PUBLIC EDUCATION AND PUBLICITY PROGRAMMES ARE THEREFORE ORGANISED REGULARLY AT TERRITORY-WIDE. DISTRICT AND NEIGHBOURHOOD LEVELS BY THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC EDUCATION IN REHABILITATION." HE SAID.
- - 0 ---------
STEPS BEING TAKEN TO REMEDY STAFFING SITUATION 4: * * ♦ *
THE GOVERNMENT IS FULLY AWARE OF THE SERIOUSNESS OF THE PROBLEM CONCERNING STAFFING IN THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES. THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE. THE HON T.H. CHAU. SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR CHAU SAID HE HAD BEEN DEVOTING MUCH OF HIS TIME IN THE PAST YEAR TO FINDING WAYS TO BOLSTER RECRUITMENT AND REDUCE WASTAGE BY MAKING WORK IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS AND CLINICS MORE ATTRACTIVE.
HE SAID AS SOME MEMBERS HAD POINTED OUT. THIS WAS NOT AN ENTIRELY HAPPY TIME FOR THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES.
"THERE IS DISSATISFACTION WITH PRESENT CONDITIONS AND UNCERTAINTY OVER THE FUTURE. AND MANY HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS HAVE RESPONDED BY TAKING THEIR MUCH-NEEDED SKILLS OUT OF THE PUBLIC SECTOR. AND SOME HAVE LEFT HONG KONG ALTOGETHER." HE SAID.
HOWEVER. MUCH PROGRESS HAD BEEN MADE THROUGH THE CO-OPERATION THE ADMINISTRATION HAD MAINTAINED IN THE REGULAR MEETINGS WITH GOVERNMENT DOCTORS AND NURSES.
"OUR EFFORTS HAVE FOCUSSED MAINLY ON FOUR AREAS. NAMELY. IMPROVEMENT TO REMUNERATION AND PROMOTION PROSPECTS. PROVISION OF BETTER TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES. STRENGTHENING OF SUPPORTING SERVICES AND IMPROVEMENTS TO THE WORKING ENVIRONMENT." MR CHAU SAID.
"I HAVE PROVIDED COMPREHENSIVE INFORMATION ON THE MEASURES WE ARE COMMITTED TO IMPLEMENTING IN LETTERS WHICH I RECENTLY SENT TO THE GOVERNMENT DOCTORS’ AND NURSES' ASSOCIATIONS."
ALTHOUGH THE EXTENT OF IMPROVEMENT MADE AT THE MANNING LEVELS WOULD DEPEND ON THE AVAILABILITY OF SUITABLY QUALIFIED PERSONS. THE SECRETARY SAID HE WAS DETERMINED TO MAKE PROGRESS AS RAPIDLY AS POSSIBLE.
/"I AM
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
40
"I AM THEREFORE HOPEFUL THAT THE OUTCOME OF THE CURRENT REVIEW OF THE STANDING COMMISSION ON CIVIL SERVICE SALARIES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE. AND THE VARIOUS OTHER MEASURES WE ARE TAKING, WILL TOGETHER HAVE A BENEFICIAL IMPACT ON RECRUITMENT AND WASTAGE.” HE SAID.
IN THIS CONNECTION. MR CHAU SAID THE ALLOWANCE FOR DOCTORS AND NURSES ANNOUNCED YESTERDAY WAS ONLY AN INTERIM MEASURE.
THE STANDING COMMISSION’S FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING THE SALARY SCALES OF NOT ONLY DOCTORS AND NURSES. BUT ALSO MANY OTHER GRADES OF HEALTH CARE STAFF. WERE EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN ABOUT SIX MONTHS’ TIME.
IN ADDITION. THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY TO BE SET UP IN APRIL 1990 WOULD MARK ANOTHER MAJOR STEP IN THE EFFORTS OF THE GOVRNMENT TO IMPROVE THE PUBLIC HOSPITAL SERVICES. HE SAID.
’’SET UP OUTSIDE THE FRAMEWORK OF THE CIVIL SERVICE. THE AUTHORITY WILL ENJOY A GREATER DEGREE OF FLEXIBILITY IN HANDLING MANPOWER AND FINANCIAL MATTERS.
”WE HOPE THAT THE NEW REMUNERATION PACKAGE ENVISAGED FOR THE STAFF OF THE AUTHORITY WILL BE ATTRACTIVE TO STAFF AT PRESENT WORKING IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS AND THAT IT WILL THEREFORE CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS OUR EFFORTS TO RETAIN THEM IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR.
’’WHERE SUBVENTED HOSPITAL STAFF ARE CONCERNED. THIS PACKAGE WILL REPRESENT AN IMPROVEMENT OxN THAT CURRENTLY AVAILABLE TO THEM AND THIS. TOGETHER WITH THE INTEGRATION OF THE GOVERNMENT AND SUBVENTED HOSPITALS UNDER THE COMMON MANAGEMENT OF THE AUTHORITY. WILL GIVE A BOOST TO THEIR MORALE.” HE SAID.
AS FOR THE IMPLICATIONS OF THE NEW PACKAGE ON THE OTHER PARTS OF THE SUBVENTED SECTOR. MR CHAU SAID THIS WOULD OBVIOUSLY HAD TO BE CONSIDERED BY THE GOVERNMENT BUT IT WOULD BE A SEPARATE EXERCISE.
-----0-------
PREMATURE TO HAVE MEDICAL POLICY WHITE PAPER
*****
ALTHOUGH IT WOULD BE PREMATURE AND CONFUSING TO LAUNCH A FURTHER AND MORE GENERAL REVIEW OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH POLICY. THIS DOES NOT MEAN THAT THE GOVERNMENT WILL NOT BE LOOKING AT THE PROBLEMS OF FINANCING MEDICAL SERVICES. INCLUDING THE FEE-CHARGING POLICY.
THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE. THE HON T.H. CHAU. SAID THIS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
/REFERRING TO
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
41
REFERRING TO SOME MEMBERS” SUGGESTION THERE BE A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH POLICY LEADING TO A WHITE PAPER. MR CHAU SAID THIS WAS NOT THE BEST TIME FOR SUCH A REVIEW AS THERE WERE CURRENTLY TWO MAJOR EXERCISES INVOLVING THE BULK OF THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES.
"FOLLOWING THE REVIEW OF THE DELIVERY OF MEDICAL SERVICES IN HOSPITALS. THE PROVISIONAL HOSPITAL AUTHORITY IS NOW BUSILY DEVISING THE STRUCTURE AND WORKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE HOSPITAL AUHTORITY THAT WILL BE ESTABLISHED NEXT YEAR.
"A FEW MONTHS AGO. WE LAUNCHED A MAJOR REVIEW OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE. WHICH IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE UNTIL THE END OF NEXT YEAR.
"I BELIEVE THAT BEFORE THE REFORMS TO BE INITIATED UNDER THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY HAVE BEEN EFFECTED AND THAT UNTIL THE PRIMARY HEALTH CARE REVIEW HAS LAID DOWN GUIDELINES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SERVICES IN THAT AREA AND THE GOVERNMENT HAS DECIDED HOW FAR IT CAN BRING ITS RECOMMENDATIONS INTO EFFECT. IT WOULD BE PREMATURE AND CONFUSING TO LAUNCH A FURTHER AND MORE GENERAL POLICY REVIEW." HE SAID.
MR CHAU NOTED THAT SOME OF THE POINTS MADE BY MEMBERS TOUCHED UPON FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF THE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM.
AT THE PRIMARY HEALTH CARE LEVEL. THESE INCLUDED THE ISSUES OF WHETHER THE GENERAL OUT-PATIENT CLINICS SHOULD CONTINUE TO OPERATE ON AN OPEN-DOOR BASIS: WHETHER ASSISTANCE SHOULD BE DIRECTED AT THE NEEDY AND WHETHER PRIVATE PRACTITIONERS SHOULD PLAY A ROLE IN PUBLIC HEALTH CARE.
"THESE ARE ALL IMPORTANT QUESTIONS FOR ANY ' REVIEW OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE." MR CHAU SAID.
OTHERWISE. IMPROVEMENTS IN SERVICE WOULD SIMPLY GENERATE ADDITIONAL DEMAND WITHOUT NECESSARILY ADDRESSING THE NEEDS OF THOSE WHO REQUIRE LOW-COST MEDICAL CARE." HE SAID. ADDING THAT THIS WOULD NOT BE AN EFFICIENT USE OF RESOURCES.
"THESE AND OTHER ISSUES RELATING TO THE KIND OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE SERVICE WE SHOULD PROVIDE INCLUDING THE FUTURE OF THE SCHOOL MEDICAL SERVICE ARE NOW BEING CONSIDERED BY THE WORKING PARTY ON PRIMARY HEALTH CARE." HE SAID.
"OUR CONCERN FOR THE HEALTH OF OUR SCHOOL CHILDREN AND OUR COMMITMENT TO ENSURE A HEALTHY ADULT POPULATION IN THE FUTURE HAVE NOT ENDED WITH WHAT SOME CRITICS MAY REGARD AS CRISIS-SOLVING MEASURES." HE STRESSED.
TURNING TO THE HONG KONG ACADEMY OF MEDICINE. MR CHAU NOTED THAT PROFESSOR DAVID TODD. AN EMINENT MEMBER OF THE MEDICAL PROFESSION WELL-RESPECTED BY HIS COLLEAGUES IN HONG KONG AS WELL AS OVERSEAS. HAD BEEN APPOINTED CHAIRMAN OF THE PREPARATORY COMMITTEE THAT WOULD OVERSEE THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE ACADEMY'S ESTABLISHMENT.
/HE SAID .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 42 -
HE SAID THE APPOINTMENT OF THE COMMITTEE’S OTHER MEMBERS. WHICH WOULD HAVE A BALANCED REPRESENTATION FROM VARIOUS MEDICAL SPECIALTIES. WOULD BE ANNOUNCED SHORTLY.
"NO DECISION HAS BEEN TAKEN ON THE CONTROVERSIAL QUESTION OF THE STATUS OF INDIVIDUAL SPECIALITIES IN THE FUTURE ACADEMY.
"WE SHALL WELCOME THE PREPARATORY COMMITTEE’S RECOMMENDATIONS ON THIS AS WELL AS OTHER MATTERS CONCERNING THE COMPOSITION OF THE ACADEMY." HE SAID.
------0-------
YOUTH PROJECT TO DISCOURAGE SMOKING * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT HAS NOT LOST SIGHT OF THE IMPORTANCE OF GENERATING AN INCREASED PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE HEALTH HAZARDS OF SMOKING. THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE. THE HON T.H. CHAU. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR CHAU SAID A LARGE-SCALE YOUTH PROJECT ON THE THEME OF "A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE WITHOUT TOBACCO" WOULD SOON BE LAUNCHED BY THE COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH.
HE NOTED THAT GIVEN THE INDISPUTABLE HEALTH HAZARDS OF SMOKING.
IT WAS HIS RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT EFFECTIVE MEASURES WERE TAKEN TO DISCOURAGE SMOKING. ESPECIALLY AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE.
"BY SPONSORING SPORTS EVENTS. THE TOBACCO INDUSTRY IS ABLE TO ASSOCIATE ITS PRODUCTS WITH A HEALTHY. OUTDOOR SPORTING IMAGE WHICH HAS AN APPEAL AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE.
"THIS COMPROMISES OUR EFFORTS TO LIMIT EXPOSURE OF CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE TO PERSUASION TO SMOKE." HE SAID.
MR CHAU SAID HE APPRECIATED THE UNDERSTANDABLE CONCERN THAT THE BANNING OF TOBACCO SPONSORSHIP WOULD HAMPER THE DEVELOPMENT OF SPORTS AND ARTS IN HONG KONG. ADDING THAT THIS CONCERN WAS CLEARLY REFLECTED DURING THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION CONDUCTED EARLIER THIS YEAR ON THE VARIOUS RECOMMENDATIONS PUT FORWARD BY THE COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH.
"I CAN ASSURE MEMBERS THAT. IN REACHING DECISIONS ON THOSE RECOMMENDATIONS. THE GOVERNMENT WILL BE SENSITIVE TO THE PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS." HE SAID.
TURNING TO THE UNDESIRABLE MEDICAL ADVERTISEMENTS ORDINANCE WHICH WAS AMENDED LAST YEAR TO INCREASE THE LEVEL OF PENALTIES AND TO OVERCOME CERTAIN ENFORCEMENT PROBLEMS. MR CHAU SAID SINCE THE ENACTMENT OF THE AMENDED ORDINANCE. THE PUBLICATION OF UNDESIRABLE MEDICAL ADVERTISEMENTS HAD BEEN MONITORED CLOSELY BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.
/’’SOME 5»7OO...........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
"SOME 5.700 ADVISORY LETTERS HAVE BEEN ISSUED TO CONCERNED PARTIES TO EXPLAIN THE PRESENT LEGAL REQUIREMENTS.
"A TOTAL OF 60 ADVERTISEMENTS WERE REPORTED TO HAVE CONTRAVENED THE LAW AND HAVE BEEN THE SUBJECT OF LEGAL ADVICE AND POLICE INVESTIGATION.
"SO FAR THIS HAS LED TO THREE SUCCESSFUL PROSECUTIONS IN WHICH THE INVOLVED PARTIES WERE CONVICTED AND PUNISHED." HE SAID.
AT THE SAME TIME. THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAD NOTED THAT PUBLISHERS HAD TAKEN HEED OF THE ADVICE AND WERE NOW MORE CAUTIOUS AND SELECTIVE WHEN PUBLISHING MEDICAL ADVERTISEMENTS. HE ADDED.
-----0-----
COMMITMENT TO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT ♦ ♦ ♦ * ♦
THE SETTING UP OF THE COMMISSION ON YOUTH REAFFIRMS THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT. THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS. THE HON DONALD LIAO. SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
SPEAKING IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS. MR LIAO NOTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD LONG RECOGNISED THE IMPORTANCE OF YOUNG PEOPLE AND THE NEED TO HELP THEM TO DEVELOP INTO RESPONSIBLE MEMBERS OF SOCIETY.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE COMMISSION’S FIRST MAJOR TASK WOULD BE TO REVIEW THE YOUTH SERVICES PROVIDED. WITH A VIEW TO RECOMMENDING A DIRECTION FOR THE PLANNING OF FUTURE SERVICES.
"APART FROM BEING A CENTRAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE. THE COMMISSION WOULD GATHER INFORMATION AND INITIATE RESEARCH ON MATTERS PERTAINING TO YOUTH." HE SAID.
IT WOULD ALSO EXCHANGE IDEAS AND FINDINGS WITH OTHER GOVERNMENT ADVISORY BODIES TO ENSURE THAT THE INTERESTS OF YOUNG PEOPLE WERE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT IN THE DESIGN OF RELEVANT SERVICE PROGRAMMES, AND ENCOURAGE BETTER CO-OPERATION AMONG THE DELIVERY AGENCIES OF YOUTH SERVICES.
"IN ADDITION. IT WILL PUT FORWARD PROPOSALS ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC AWARENESS AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE AND THEIR PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.
"YET ANOTHER FUNCTION WILL BE TO PROMOTE LEADERSHIP TRAINING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. AND LIAISE WITH OVERSEAS YOUTH ORGANISATIONS TO INCREASE THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR YOUNG PEOPLE TO ACQUIRE INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE AND EXPOSURE." MR LIAO ADDED.
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
- 44
ACTIVE ROLE IN PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION *****
THE COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION HAS SPONSORED NEARLY 100 CIVIC EDUCATION PROJECTS SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 1986. THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS. THE HON DONALD LIAO. SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
EVERY YEAR. THE COMMITTEE REVIEWED AND FORMULATED ITS WORK EMPHASIS AND PRIORITIES, MR LIAO SAID.
’’FOR INSTANCE. IN VIEW OF THE ELECTIONS IN 1991. THE COMMITTEE HAD LAID DOWN EARLY THIS YEAR TWO IMPORTANT TASK AREAS, NAMELY TO FOSTER AMONG OUR RESIDENTS THE UNDERSTANDING OF AND PARTICIPATION IN THE POLITICAL AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS OF HONG KONG AND TO PROMOTE THE SPIRIT OF THE RULE OF LAW.
"IN THIS REGARD. A SERIES OF ACTIVITIES INCLUDING SEMINARS. OUTDOOR EVENTS AND TERRITORY-WIDE PUBLICITY PROGRAMMES HAVE BEEN PLANNED," HE SAID.
MR LIAO NOTED THAT ON THE ADVICE OF THE COMMITTEE. A NEW CIVIC EDUCATION RESOURCE CENTRE HAD BEEN SET UP IN THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION HEADQUARTERS IN WAN CHAI.
THE CENTRE. WHICH WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. CONTAINED A LARGE AMOUNT OF REFERENCE MATERIALS ON CIVIC EDUCATION AND PROVIDED A CONVENIENT FOCAL POINT FOR BOTH INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANISATIONS TO OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION IN THE COURSE OF PLANNING AND ORGANISING CIVIC EDUCATION PROJECTS. HE SAID.
-----0-----
DB MEMBERS ARE GETTING YOUNGER *****
THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS. THE HON DONALD LIAO. TOLD THF LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS ARE GETTING YOUNGER WITH NEARLY 40 PER CENT OF THEM UNDER 40 YEARS OLD.
"MANY MORE YOUNG PEOPLE ARE ALSO SERVING AS CO-OPTED MEMBERS ON THE COMMITTEES AND WORKING GROUPS ESTABLISHED UNDER THE DISTRICT BOARDS." HE SAID.
"THIS PROVIDES THEM WITH A GOOD TRAINING OPPORTUNITY TO DEVELOP INTO LEADERS OF THEIR DISTRICTS." HE ADDED.
MR LIAO POINTED OUT THAT OVER THE YEARS THE DISTRICT BOARDS HAD EFFECTIVELY CHANNELLED TO THE GOVERNMENT A WIDE RANGE OF VIEWS OF THE LOCAL PEOPLE AND HAD GIVEN ADVICE ON IMPROVING GOVERNMENT FACILITIES AND SERVICES IN THE DISTRICTS.
/HE SAID
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
^5 -
HE SAID THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME WAS LAST REVIEWED IN 1987 BY THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION AND THROUGH THE GREEN PAPER ON REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENTS IN REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT.
"BOTH REVIEWS REAFFIRMED THE ROLE AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE DISTRICT BOARDS TN THE MACHINERY OF GOVERNMENT IN HONG KONG.
"NEVERTHELESS. A NUMBER OF IMPROVEMENTS TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE ARRANGEMENTS AND OPERATION OF THE SCHEME HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED." HE SAID.
MR LIAO ADDED THAT THE FUNCTIONS OF DISTRICT BOARDS WERE NOW WELL UNDERSTOOD BY RESIDENTS.
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URBAN SQUATTERS TO BE CLEARED BY MID-1990’S ******
HONG KONG’S PRESENT URBAN SQUATTER POPULATION AT 83.000 PERSONS IS LESS THAN HALF OF THAT IN 1984 AND THE GOVERNMENT IS CONFIDENT THAT THEY TOO WILL BE CLEARED BY THE MID-199O’S. THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS. THE HON DONALD LIAO. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE ALSO SAID THAT UNDER THE HOUSING AUTHORITY’S LONG TERM HOUSING STRATEGY. AN INCREASING EMPHASIS WOULD BE PLACED ON HOME OWNERSHIP.
HOWEVER. MR LIAO NOTED THAT WHILE THERE WAS A STRONG DEMAND FOR ASSISTED HOME OWNERSHIP. THERE WAS ALSO A SIZEABLE OUTSTANDING DEMAND FOR RENTAL PUBLIC HOUSING FROM CLEARANCES. REDEVELOPMENT AND THE GENERAL WAITING LIST.
"WITH CONSTRAINTS ON LAND SUPPLY AND OTHER RESOURCES. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY HAS TO STRIKE A SUITABLE BALANCE IN ITS PRODUCTION PROGRAMME TO MEET THE VARIOUS HOUSING NEEDS OF THE PUBLIC." HE SAID.
THE HOUSING AUTHORITY. MR LIAO ADDED. REGULARLY REVIEWED THE INCOME LIMITS AND ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR ALL TYPES OF ASSISTED HOUSING TO SEE HOW BEST THIS OPPORTUNITY COULD BE EXTENDED TO THOSE MOST IN NEED.
"TO THIS END. IT HAS TAKEN THE INITIATIVE TO SET UP THREE WORKING GROUPS TO STUDY THE PROPOSED SALE OF RENTAL FLATS TO SITTING TENANTS. THE HOUSING PROBLEMS OF THE 'SANDWICH CLASS’ AND PRIVATE SECTOR PRODUCTION IN THE CONTEXT OF THE STRATEGY.
"THESE STUDIES. WHICH ARE EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED NEXT YEAR. WILL HAVE AN IMPORTANT BEARING ON THE FUTURE DIRECTION OF ASSISTED HOME OWNERSHIP IN HONG KONG," HE SAID.
0 -----
A6......
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
PROGRESS MADE IN SPORTS. RECREATION AND CULTURE * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN MAKING SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF SPORTS. RECREATION AND CULTURE WHILE LAUNCHING MASSIVE INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS. THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS. THE HON DONALD LIAO, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE PROGRESS INCLUDED THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PROVISIONAL SPORTS DEVELOPMENT BOARD, THE PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE THE ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS INTO A DEGREE-GRANTING INSTITUTION AND THE REVIEW OF FUNDING PRIORITIES BY THE COUNCIL FOR PERFORMING ARTS.
IN ORDER TO FUND THESE . NEW INITIATIVES, MR LIAO SAID A BALANCED APPROACH SHOULD BE ADOPTED TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE AVAILABILITY OF GOVERNMENT RESOURCES AND THE NEED TO ENCOURAGE PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION.
"WITH THIS IN VIEW. THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH IS PLANNING TO ORGANISE EARLY NEXT YEAR A SEMINAR OF EXPERTS AND CONCERNED GROUPS TO EXPLORE THE BEST WAY TO PROMOTE BUSINESS SPONSORSHIP FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS.“ HE POINTED OUT.
AS REGARDS THE PRESERVATION OF CULTURAL HERITAGE. MR LIAO SAID FULL CREDIT MUST GO TO THE ANTIQUITIES ADVISORY BOARD FOR ITS HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND EDUCATION IN THIS AREA.
NOTING THAT THE LIST OF DECLARED MONUMENTS IN THE TERRITORY WAS GROWING. HE ASSURED MEMBERS THAT EFFORTS WOULD CONTINUE TO BE MADE AND RESOURCES PROVIDED TO KEEP UP WORK ON THIS FRONT.
- - 0 - -
BOAT PEOPLE: GOVT COMMITTED TO GENEVA PLAN
******
THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY. THE HON GEOFFREY BARNES. STRESSED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT ONLY THROUGH THE FULL AND BALANCED IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF ACTION (CPA) AGREED IN GENEVA IN JUNE COULD THE PROBLEM OF THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE BE RESOLVED.
MR BARNES SAID THE GOVERNMENT REMAINED COMMITTED TO THE CPA.
NEVERTHELESS. THE CPA COULD NOT BE A COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTION WITHOUT THE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF ALL ITS COMPONENTS AND WITHOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE REPATRIATION OF ALL THOSE WHO HAD BEEN SCREENED OUT AS NON-REFUGEES, HONG KONG WOULD CONTINUE TO ATTRACT MISGUIDED AND MISLED VIETNAMESE RESETTLEMENT SEEKERS.
/MR BARNES
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- ^7
MR BARNES SAID WHAT MUST BE UNDERSTOOD BY THE CRITICS OF MANDATORY REPATRIATION WAS THAT. FAR FROM BEING CONTRARY TO THE CPA. IT WAS AN INTRINSIC AND LOGICAL PART OF IT.
’’ONCE SOMEONE HAS BEEN SCREENED OUT AS A NON-REFUGEE. THERE IS NO ALTERNATIVE TO RETURNING. WITH SAFEGUARDS. TO VIETNAM.
"THAT IS THE CLEAR MESSAGE OF THE CPA, AND IT IS SIMPLY UNREALISTIC TO EXPECT ALL NON-REFUGEES TO VOLUNTEER TO RETURN.0 HE SAID.
MR BARNES SAID THERE WAS NO ALTERNATIVE TO REPATRIATION FOR THOSE NON-VOLUNTEERS WHO WOULD BE THE MAJORITY.
“THEY ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR RESETTLEMENT: AND THE ONLY OTHER OPTION. WHICH IS INDEFINITE DETENTION IN PERMANENT CAMPS IN HONG KONG. HAS TO BE DISCOUNTED.
"OTHERWISE THAT WOULD INDEED BE A GRIM PROSPECT: NOT ONLY FOR THE MEN. WOMEN AND CHILDREN CONCERNED. BUT ALSO FOR HONG KONG AS A CONTINUING SOCIAL. ADMINISTRATIVE AND FINANCIAL BURDEN." HE SAID.
MR BARNES POINTED OUT THAT THE OUTWARD SURGE OF VIETNAMESE FROM THEIR HOMELAND COULD NO LONGER BE VIEWED IN THE SIMPLE. IDEOLOGICAL FASHION OF FORMER YEARS. ACCORDING TO WHICH EVERY PERSON LEAVING VIETNAM WAS REGARDED AUTOMATICALLY AS A REFUGEE SEEKING ASYLUM.
HE SAID WHILE HONG KONG HAD TURNED NONE AWAY. IT WAS EQUALLY IMPORTANT TO RECOGNISE THAT THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE SAW HONG KONG ONLY AS A TRANSIT CENTRE TO RESETTLEMENT ELSEWHERE.
"AND FOR OVERSEAS VIETNAMESE, OR OTHERS. TO FOSTER SUCH HOPES OF RESETTLEMENT IS TO MISLEAD IRRESPONSIBLY THESE UNFORTUNATE PEOPLE WHOM NOBODY WANTS." HE SAID.
MR BARNES SAID THE LACK OF CONSENSUS ON ALTERNATIVES TO VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION IN GENEVA LAST MONTH SHOULD NOT OBSCURE THE GOOD PROGRESS WHICH HAD BEEN MADE WITH OTHER ELEMENTS OF THE CPA—RESETTLEMENT OF REFUGEES. THE ORDERLY DEPARTURE PROGRAMME FROM VIETNAM AND THE VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME.
HE SAID HONG KONG REMAINED COMMITTED TO THE VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME. WHICH WAS FIRST ENGINEERED BY THE TERRITORY IN TALKS HELD IN HANOI IN AUGUST LAST YEAR. AS AN IMPORTANT ELEMENT OF THE CPA. OVER 500 PEOPLE HAD NOW RETURNED TO VIETNAM UNDER THIS PROGRAMME WHICH STARTED THIS YEAR.
AS FOR RESETTLEMENT. SOME 3.400 VIETNAMESE REFUGEES HAD BEEN RESETTLED SO FAR THIS YEAR AND THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY EXPECTED THE TOTAL FOR 1989 TO BE OVER 4.000.
/’’ALTHOUGH OUR.........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
"ALTHOUGH OUR OVERALL VIETNAMESE CAME POPULATION STANDS AT OVER 57.000. WE HAVE ONLY 13.000 VIETNAMESE OF REFUGEE STATUS AND IT IS CLEAR THAT THIS PART OF THE CP/\ WILL MAKE A SATISFACTORY REDUCTION TO THIS FIGURE." HE SAID.
MR BARNES NOTED THAT THE ORDERLY DEPARTURE PROGRAMME (ODP) FROM VIETNAM WAS ALSO GOING WELL AND ABOUT 45,000 PEOPLE WOULD LEAVE THE COUNTRY DURING 1989. A 100 PER CENT INCREASE OVER 1988.
“THE ODP IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE IT PROVIDES A LEGITIMATE AVENUE FOR DEPARTURE AND THEREBY TAKES SOME OF THE PRESSURE OFF FIRST ASYLUM COUNTRIES,” HE NOTED.
MR BARNES SAID HE HOPED HONG KONG COULD MAKE PROGRESS ON THE ISSUE OF REPATRIATION WHEN THE THIRD STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING RECONVENED IN GENEVA ON DECEMBER 4 AND 5.
“WITHOUT THIS ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT. AND THE DETERRENT MESSAGE IT WOULD SEND. HONG KONG COULD WELL FACE ANOTHER MAJOR INFLUX OF BOAT PEOPLE IN 1990.
“THE INTERNATIONAL COMUNITY HAS ENDORSED THE CPA. AND THE COUNTRIES OF FIRST ASYLUM MUST BE ALLOWED TO IMPLEMENT IT IN FULL IF WE ARE TO CONTINUE TO COPE WITH THE ENORMOUS PRESSURES IMPOSED ON US BY ARRIVALS FROM VIETNAM.” HE SAID.
MR BARNES COMMENDED THE DISCIPLINED AND AUXILIARY SERVICES. MANY OF WHICH HAD BEEN HEAVILY COMMITTED TO COPING WITH THE INFLUX OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE.
“ALL HAVE FACED DIFFICULTIES IN RECRUITMENT. AND IN REPLACING SKILLED AND EXPERIENCED MANPOWER. YET THEY HAVE ALL RESPONDED MAGNIFICENTLY.
“HONG KONG CAN BE VERY PROUD OF ITS DISCIPLINED AND AUXILIARY SERVICES AND FOR THE HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL MANNER IN WHICH THEY PERFORM THEIR MANY AND VARIED DUTIES." HE SAID.
- - 0 -
ENSURING LAW IS IN LINE WITH COMMUNITY REQUIREMENTS
******
THE GOVERNMENT WILL CONTINUE TO REVIEW HONG KONG’S CRIMINAL AND PENAL LAW TO ENSURE IT REMAINS UP TO DATE AND IN LINE WITH COMMUNITY REQUIREMENTS AND PRESENT SOCIAL ATTITUDES. THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY. THE HON GEOFFREY BARNES. SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS. MR BARNES SAID GOOD PROGRESS HAD BEEN MADE WITH LEGISLATION TO COMBAT ORGANISED CRIME.
/THE ENACTMENT
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
^9
THE ENACTMENT OF THE DRUG TRAFFICKING (RECOVERY OF PROCEEDS) ORDINANCE DURING THE LAST SESSION WAS A MAJOR STEP IN THE FIGHT AGAINST INTERNATIONAL DRUG TRAFFICKING.
’’MOST OF ITS PROVISIONS CAME INTO FORCE ON SEPTEMBER 1 THIS YEAR AND THE REMAINING PROVISIONS. RELATING TO THE REPORTING OF SUSPICIOUS TRANSACTIONS BY BANKS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS. WILL COME INTO FORCE ON DECEMBER 1." HE SAID.
WHILE THE GAMBLING (AMENDMENT) BILL AND THE CRIMES (AMENDMENT) BILL NOW BEFORE THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WERE FURTHER MEASURES AGAINST SERIOUS CRIME. MR BARNES SAID THE ADMINISTRATION WAS ALSO CONSIDERING THE FEASIBILITY OF LEGISLATION TO CREATE A NEW OFFENCE OF INVOLVEMENT IN ORGANISED CRIME.
"WE AIM TO PUBLISH A DRAFT ORGANISED CRIME BILL NEXT YEAR AS A
WHITE BILL FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION.
"THIS WILL MAKE IT EASIER TO BRING BEFORE THE COURTS EVIDENCE OF SUCH INVOLVEMENT. TO PERMIT THE IMPOSITION OF HEAVY SENTENCES FOR LEADING MEMBERS OF ORGANISED CRIME GANGS AND SYNDICATES. AND TO ATTACK SUCH GANGS AND SYNDICATES THROUGH NEW PROVISIONS FOR FORFEITURE AND AGAINST MONEY-LAUNDERING." HE SAID.
MR BARNES SAID THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE WAS LOOKING INTO THE POSSIBILITY OF LEGISLATION TO REGULATE THE SECURITY INDUSTRY IN HONG KONG AND SO TO IMPROVE STANDARDS.
"PROPOSALS WILL INCLUDE A LICENSING SYSTEM ON TWO LEVELS: FOR THE EMPLOYEES OF SECURITY COMPANIES. AND FOR THE COMPANIES THEMSELVES." HE SAID.
ON EXISTING LEGISLATION. HE SAID THE ADMINISTRATION WOULD MAKE PROPOSALS FOR LEGISLATION TO REPEAL ALL EXISTING PROVISIONS WHICH EMPOWERED THE COURTS TO AWARD CORPORAL PUNISHMENT. THIS FOLLOWED AN EXTENSIVE CONSULTATION EXERCISE. AND A REVIEW OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF OTHER FORMS OF PUNISHMENT.
IT-WOULD ALSO SEEK THE VIEWS OF LEGCO ON THE PRESENT LAWS RELATING TO HOMOSEXUAL CONDUCT.
ON THE GENERAL CRIME SITUATION. MR BARNES SAID THE PRESENT LEVEL OF CRIME REMAINED ABOUT THE SAME AS LAST YEAR. WITH A DROP IN MINOR CRIMES SUCH AS SHOPTHEFT. A SLIGHT INCREASE IN SERIOUS AND VIOLENT CRIMES. AND THE NUMBER OF JUVENILE OFFENDERS REMAINING CONSTANT AT ABOUT 17 PER CENT OF ALL OFFENDERS.
WHILE THE CRIME RATE IN HONG KONG HAD MADE IT ONE OF THE SAFER PLACES IN THE WORLD FOR PEOPLE TO LIVE AND WORK, MR BARNES STRESSED NEITHER THE POLICE NOR THE ADMINISTRATION WERE COMPLACENT AND A CLOSE WATCH WAS KEPT ON CRIME TRENDS AND RATES.
"THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE. ON WHICH SEVERAL MEMBERS SERVE. CONTINUES TO FUNCTION MOST POSITIVELY AND HAS BEEN VERY ACTIVE IN PROMOTING PUBLICITY AND EDUCATION AIMED AT CRIME PREVENTION. PARTICULARLY AMONGST YOUNG PERSONS." HE POINTED OUT.
/TURNING TO .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
TURNING TO IMMIGRATION. MR BARNES SAID HE ACCEPTED THAT HONG KONG'S POLICIES NEEDED TO EVOLVE IN LINE WITH CHANGING ECONOMIC CIRCUMSTANCES. QUOTING AS AN EXAMPLE THE INTRODUCTION EARLIER THIS YEAR OF A SPECIAL QUOTA FOR THE IMPORTATION OF SKILLED LABOUR.
"IN THE SAME SPIRIT. AND IN KEEPING WITH HONG KONG’S ROLE AS AN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CENTRE, WE HAVE RECENTLY DECIDED TO ADOPT A MORE FLEXIBLE APPROACH IN ADMITTING GENUINE BUSINESS VISITORS FROM EASTERN EUROPEAN COUNTRIES." HE SAID.
NEVERTHELESS. HE CAUTIONED THAT EVOLUTION IN IMMIGRATION MATTERS WAS A CAUTIOUS PROCESS. AND THAT THESE SMALL CHANGES DID NOT SIGNIFY ANY WEAKENING OF THE DETERMINATION TO MAINTAIN THE INTEGRITY OF HONG KONG’S LAND AND SEA BORDERS. AND TO ACT FIRMLY AGAINST ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION.
"THERE CAN BE NO QUESTION OF ANY AMNESTY FOR CATEGORIES OF PERSONS WHO ENTER HONG KONG ILLEGALLY OR WHO ENTER AS VISITORS AND SUBSEQUENTLY REMAIN IN HONG KONG ILLEGALLY." HE STRESSED.
------o--------
EFFORT TO ENSURE HONG KONG’S FUTURE t t * * t
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS MUST DO EVERYTHING THEY CAN TO ENSURE A FUTURE FOR THE HONG KONG PEOPLE. THE SENIOR MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL. THE HON ALLEN LEE. SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
WINDING UP THE DEBATE ON HIS MOTION OF THANKS FOR THE GOVERNOR’S POLICY ADDRESS. MR LEE SAID THE PACE OF TRANSFORMATION IN HONG KONG HAD AMAZED PEOPLE WHO HAD WATCHED THE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE TERRITORY.
"WITH THE STRENGTH AND DIVERSITY OF KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE WITHIN THIS COUNCIL. WE CAN LEAD HONG KONG THROUGH TROUBLED TIMES AND TO BUILD A FUTURE FOR OUR PEOPLE." HE SAID.
AS FOR THE UNCERTAINTY HONG KONG WAS FACING. HE SAID IT WAS A DIFFICULT TIME FOR HONG KONG AND IT HAD NOT BEEN MADE EASIER BY WHAT WAS HAPPENING AROUND US.
"NEVERTHELESS. WE WILL NOT LOSE SIGHT OF OUR RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS OUR OWN PEOPLE WHO ARE COMMITTED TO STAYING IN HONG KONG IN BUILDING UP OUR OWN INFRASTRUCTURE. IMPROVING OUR SOCIAL SERVICES. INCREASING OUR EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES, ADVANCING OUR TECHNOLOGICAL CAPABILITIES AND IN BRINGING TO FRUITION THE HOST OF AMBITIOUS PROJECTS THAT CALL FOR NOT ONLY OUR DEDICATION AND OUR EXPERIENCE. BUT IN SHORT. A LOT OF HARD WORK.
/"SUCH PROJECTS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
"SUCH PROJECTS REQUIRE THE CONTRIBUTION OF A COMMUNITY THAT PLEDGES ITS SUPPORT FOR A BETTER HONG KONG. THE KEY TO SUCCESS LIES IN OURSELVES.
"WE MUST THEREFORE STAND TOGETHER AS A COMMUNITY, CARRY ON THE GOOD WORK WE HAVE DONE SO FAR. AND APPLY OURSELVES TO TACKLING PROBLEMS AND ACHIEVING OUR GOALS WITH COURAGE. DETERMINATION AND UNITY OF PURPOSE." MR LEE SAID.
-----0-----
LEGCO CONCLUDES POLICY DEBATE * * * *
AFTER THREE DAYS OF DEBATE. THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL PASSED A MOTION TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THE GOVERNOR BE THANKED FOR HIS ANNUAL POLICY ADDRESS TO THE COUNCIL LAST MONTH.
MEMBERS SPOKE ON THE MOTION ON TWO DAYS LAST WEEK. AND OFFICIALS REPLIED TODAY TO THE POINTS THAT THEY HAD RAISED.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY LED THE REPLIES. AND THE CLOSING SPEECH FOR THE OFFICIALS WAS MADE BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY.
A SHORT SPEECH WINDING UP THE DEBATE WAS MADE BY THE SENIOR MEMBER. THE HON ALLEN LEE. WHO HAD MOVED THE MOTION.
IN OTHER BUSINESS. FOUR BILLS WERE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
THEY WERE THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989: THE BANK NOTES ISSUE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989: THE ARBITRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1989 AND THE IMMIGRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO. 4) BILL 1989.
DEBATES ON THESE BILLS WERE ADJOURNED.
THREE BILLS WERE PASSED AFTER GOING THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BEING GIVEN THIRD READINGS.
THEY WERE THE REGISTRATION OF PERSONS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989:
THE MEDICAL REGISTRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 AND THE HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989.
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/52........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 52 -
BILL AIMS TO UNDERLINE JUDICIARY’S INDEPENDENCE ******
THE PURPOSE 01? THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 IS TO INTRODUCE CHANGES TO THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION IN ORDER TO UNDERLINE THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE JUDICIARY, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WHEN HE MOVED THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL.
"THE BILL PROVIDES FOR THE EXPANSION OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION FROM SIX TO NINE, CONSISTING OF THREE MEMBERS OF THE JUDICIARY, INCLUDING THE CHIEF JUSTICE AS CHAIRMAN, TWO MEMBERS OF THE LEGAL PROFESSION AND THREE LAY MEMBERS TOGETHER WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL AS AN EX-OFFICIO MEMBER.
"THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION IS NO LONGER TO BE A MEMBER OF THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION," THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID.
SIR DAVID SAID WHILE THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT SHARE THE LEGAL PROFESSION’S CONCERN ABOUT THE EFFECT OF THE CHAIRMAN’S MEMBERSHIP ON THE CONCEPT OF A NON-CIVIL SERVICE JUDICIARY, IT AGREED THAT HIS EXPERTISE IN APPOINTMENT MATTERS COULD BE PROVIDED BY ONE OF THE LAY MEMBERS.
NOTING THAT THE LEGAL PROFESSION HAD ALSO OBJECTED TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL REMAINING A MEMBER OF THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION. SIR DAVID SAID THE ADMINISTRATION HAD CAREFULLY CONSIDERED THE OBJECTIONS BUT CONTINUED TO BELIEVE THAT THERE WERE SOUND REASONS FOR THE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO CONTINUE TO BE A MEMBER.
"THE SEPARATION OF THE JUDICIARY FROM THE ADMINISTRATION DOES NOT MEAN THAT THE ADMINISTRATION HAS NO ROLE TO PLAY IN THE APPOINTMENT OF JUDGES AND MAGISTRATES.
"THE ADMINISTRATION HAS A RESPONSIBILITY FOR ENSURING THAT HIGH STANDARDS ARE MAINTAINED IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE IN WHICH JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS PLAY AN IMPORTANT PART.
"IT IS APPROPRIATE THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL AS GUARDIAN OF THE PUBLIC INTEREST IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE, SHOULD PARTICIPATE IN JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS," SIR DAVID SAID.
HE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE GOVERNMENT BELIEVED THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S POSITION AS LEGAL ADVISER TO THE GOVERNOR AND HEAD OF THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT MADE IT APPROPRIATE FOR HIM TO BE A MEMBER OF THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION.
"THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT BRIEFS OUT A GREAT DEAL OF WORK TO THE PRIVATE SECTOR AND EMPLOYS APPROXIMATELY 250 GOVERNMENT LAWYERS. SUCH A POSITION GIVES THE ATTORNEY GENERAL A CONSIDERABLE APPRECIATION' OF ABILITY WITHIN THE LEGAL PROFESSION OF HONG KONG.
/’’HE IS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 19^9
- 53 -
"HE IS THUS WELL PLACED TO ASSIST THE COMMISSION IN ITS DELIBERATIONS. CONCERNING BOTH LAWYERS WHO SEEK APPOINTMENT TO THE BENCH AND MEMBERS OF THE JUDICIARY WHO SEEK, OR WHO ARE PROPOSED FOR. ADVANCEMENT,” SIR DAVID SAID.
THE BILL ALSO INTRODUCED A CONSULTATIVE MECHANISM FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF THE TWO MEMBERS FROM THE LEGAL PROFESSION. ONE WOULD BE A BARRISTER AND THE OTHER A SOLICITOR.
‘BEFORE A DECISION IS TAKEN BY THE GOVERNOR ON THESE APPOINTMENTS. THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG BAR ASSOCIATION AND THE PRESIDENT OF THE LAW SOCIETY OF HONG KONG WILL BE INVITED TO MAKE NOMINATIONS. THE GOVERNOR WILL WISH TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF THESE RECOMMENDATIONS BUT WILL NOT BE BOUND BY THEM.” SIR DAVID ADDED.
AS A CONSEQUENCE OF THE INCREASE IN MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION FROM SIX TO NINE, THE BILL ALSO PROVIDED FOR AN INCREASE IN THE QUORUM TO THE CHIEF JUSTICE PLUS FIVE MEMBERS.
“WE BELIEVE THAT THE LEGAL PROFESSION’S SUGGESTION THAT THE QUORUM SHOULD BE SEVEN MEMBERS IS INAPPROPRIATE. AS MEMBERS WILL APPRECIATE, DURING CERTAIN PERIODS OF THE YEAR WHEN BUSINESS MUST BE TRANSACTED IT IS QUITE POSSIBLE THAT MORE THAN TWO MEMBERS WILL BE OUT OF HONG KONG." SIR DAVID EXPLAINED.
THE OTHER CHANGE INTRODUCED WAS THE REMOVAL OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE COMMISSION TO BE UNANIMOUS.
"WITH AN EXPANDED MEMBERSHIP OF NINE, THE LIKELIHOOD OF UNANIMOUS DECISIONS WILL NATURALLY BE REDUCED AND IT WOULD CLEARLY BE UNDESIRABLE TO THE OPERATION OF THE COMMISSION THAT DECISIONS SHOULD BE BLOCKED BY THE OBJECTION OF ONE MEMBER.
"ON THE OTHER HAND, THE VALIDITY OF A DECISION MIGHT BE IN DOUBT IF THERE WERE TO BE A LARGE NUMBER OF DISSENTING VOTES.
"THE BILL THEREFORE PROVIDES THAT RESOLUTIONS SHOULD BE PASSED WITH NOT MORE THAN TWO DISSENTING VOTES. THE LEGAL PROFESSION’S SUGGESTION FOR RESOLUTIONS TO BE PASSED WITH NOT MORE THAN ONE DISSENTING VOTE IS NOT CONSIDERED ACCEPTABLE." SIR DAVID ADDED.
THE LEGAL PROFESSION HAD PROPOSED THAT THE LEGISLATION SHOULD SPECIFY THAT JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS SHOULD BE MADE BY THE GOVERNOR IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ADVICE OF THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION.
"THIS WOULD BE CONSISTENT WITH THE PROVISION IN THE JOINT DECLARATION THAT JUDGES OF THE SAR COURTS SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RECOMMENDATION OF AN INDEPENDENT COMMISSION.
"HOWEVER, BEFORE THE JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISSION CAN ASSUME SUCH AN EXECUTIVE ROLE, CERTAIN MEASURES SUCH AS PROVIDING FOR SECURITY OF TENURE FOR JUDICIAL OFFICERS AND REPLACING THE LETTERS PATENT UNDER WHICH JUDGES ARE NOW APPOINTED WITH OTHER PROVISIONS AFFORDING SIMILAR PROTECTION WILL HAVE TO BE PUT IN PLACE.
/’’THEREFORE WE.........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
"THEREFORE WE PROPOSED THAT THE COMMISSION REMAIN ADVISORY FOR THE TIME BEING. IN PRACTICE, THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMISSION ON JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN ACCEPTED BY THE GOVERNOR,” THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID.
SIR DAVID SAID THE BILL HAD BEEN REVISED TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT SOME OF THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE LEGAL PROFESSION.
"THE CHANGES PROPOSED IN THE BILL WILL HELP TO UNDERLINE AND ENHANCE THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE JUDICIARY, AND I AM SURE THEIR IMPLEMENTATION WILL BE BENEFICIAL TO OUR JUDICIAL SYSTEM.” HE SAID.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
------0-------
BANK NOTES BILL INTRODUCED * * * * *
THE BANK NOTES ISSUE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 WAS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS.
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL, SIR PIERS EXPLAINED THAT THE MAIN PURPOSE WAS TO PROVIDE THAT BANK NOTES BEARING THE NAME "THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORATION” SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE LEGAL TENDER FOLLOWING THE CHANGE IN THE BANK’S NAME TO "THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORATION LIMITED” ON OCTOBER 6 THIS YEAR.
"THERE IS A NEED TO ENSURE THAT BANK NOTES BEARING THE OLD NAME MAY STILL BE LAWFULLY ISSUED AND WILL REMAIN LEGAL TENDER.
"THE PROCESS OF REPLACING SUCH NOTES BY NOTES BEARING THE BANK’S NEW NAME IS EXPECTED TO TAKE SEVERAL YEARS.
"THE COST OF PRINTING BANK NOTES IS BORNE BY GOVERNMENT FOR THE ACCOUNT OF THE EXCHANGE FUND," HE SAID.
SIR PIERS SAID THE BILL PROVIDED THAT ANY BANK NOTES BEARING THE FORMER NAME, WHETHER ISSUED BEFORE, ON OR AFTER OCTOBER 6, 1989 SHOULD BE DEEMED TO BE BANK NOTES LAWFULLY ISSUED AND LEGAL TENDER FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE PRINCIPAL ORDINANCE.
THERE WAS A PROVISION THAT THE BILL SHOULD BE DEEMED TO HAVE COME INTO OPERATION ON OCTOBER 6.
"I TRUST THAT THIS RETROSPECTIVITY WILL NOT CAUSE CONCERN TO MEMBERS SINCE NO ONE IS TO BE DEPRIVED OF EXISTING RIGHTS AS A RESULT. INDEED THE RIGHTS OF HOLDERS OF THE BANK’S NOTES WILL BE CONFIRMED,” SIR PIERS SAID.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
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BOOST FOR HK AS ARBITRATION CENTRE
*****
THE ADOPTION OF THE UNITED NATIONS MODEL LAW OF ARBITRATION WILL HELP BOOST HONG KONG’S ATTRACTIONS AS A VENUE FOR INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATIONS, THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WAS TOLD TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE ARBITRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO.2) BILL 1989, THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON FRANK STOCK, SAID THE OBJECT OF THE BILL WAS TO IMPLEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION IN ITS 1987 REPORT ON THE ADOPTION OF THE UNCITRAL MODEL LAW OF ARBITRATION.
’’SINCE THE ESTABLISHMENT IN SEPTEMBER 1985 OF THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION CENTRE, HONG KONG HAS BEEN DEVELOPING THE POTENTIAL FOR BEING THE LEADING CENTRE FOR INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION IN THE FAR EAST.
“CLEARLY IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE LAWS OF HONG KONG BE AS WELL DESIGNED AS POSSIBLE TO ASSIST THESE DEVELOPMENTS.
’’THE EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF THE MODEL LAW FOR HONG KONG WILL BE TO MAKE KNOWLEDGE OF HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION RULES ACCESSIBLE AT ONCE TO THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY, THEREBY MAKING HONG KONG EMINENTLY ATTRACTIVE TO PARTIES AS AN ARBITRATION VENUE,” HE SAID.
MR STOCK SAID THAT ALTHOUGH HONG KONG’S PRESENT ARBITRATION LAW DID MAKE SPECIAL PROVISION FOR NON-DOMESTIC ARBITRATIONS THEY WERE, WITH SOME EXCEPTIONS, DEALT WITH ALONG SIMILAR LINES TO DOMESTIC ARBITRATIONS.
THE BILL, HOWEVER, PROVIDED FOR TWO DISTINCT REGIMES.
DOMESTIC ARBITRATIONS WOULD CONTINUE TO BE GOVERNED BY THE EXISTING LAW SUBJECT TO A FEW CHANGES WHILE INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATIONS WOULD BE GOVERNED BY THE MODEL LAW, THE PROVISIONS OF WHICH (SAVE FOR ONE CHAPTER) WOULD, BY THIS BILL, BE INCORPORATED INTO THE ARBITRATION ORDINANCE.
HOWEVER, PROVISION WAS MADE FOR PARTIES TO DOMESTIC ARBITRATIONS TO ENTER AN AGREEMENT, AFTER A DISPUTE HAD ARISEN, FOR THEIR DISPUTE TO BE DEALT WITH UNDER THE MODEL LAW.
PROVISION WAS ALSO MADE FOR PARTIES TO AN INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE THAT ANY DISPUTES WOULD BE DEALT WITH UNDER THE LAW RELATING TO DOMESTIC ARBITRATIONS. MR STOCK SAID.
UNDER THE MODEL LAW, AN ARBITRATION WAS INTERNATIONAL IN A NUMBER OF CIRCUMSTANCES.
"IT IS INTERNATIONAL IF THE PARTIES TO THE ARBITRATION AGREEMENT HAVE THEIR PLACES OF BUSINESS IN DIFFERENT STATES, OR HAVE AGREED THAT THE SUBJECT MATTER OF THE AGREEMENT RELATES TO MORE THAN ONE STATE.
/"EVEN IF
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 198?
"EVEN IF THE PLACES OF BUSINESS OF THE PARTIES ARE IN THE SAME STATE, THE ARBITRATION IS ALSO INTERNATIONAL IF THE PARTIES AGREE TO ARBITRATE ELSEWHERE; OR IF A SUBSTANTIAL PART OF THE COMMERCIAL OBLIGATIONS ARE TO BE PERFORMED ELSEWHERE; OR IF THE SUBJECT MATTER OF THE DISPUTE IS MORE CLOSELY CONNECTED WITH ANOTHER STATE.
"A DOMESTIC ARBITRATION IS ONE THAT WILL FALL OUTSIDE THESE PRESCRIBED CIRCUMSTANCES." MR STOCK. SAID.
EXPLAINING THE BACKGROUND, HE SAID THAT WITH THE INCREASING INTERNATIONALISATION OF COMMERCE, A CLEAR NEED HAD EMERGED FOR BUSINESS DISPUTES TO BE SETTLED IN A MANNER THAT WAS "JUST, SWIFT, PREDICTABLE AND FINAL".
BUT IF DIFFERENT COUNTRIES HAD DIFFERENT MECHANISMS FOR RESOLVING THESE DISPUTES, BUSINESSMEN WERE UNLIKELY TO CHOOSE A VENUE FOR ARBITRATION IF THEY OR THEIR ADVISERS WERE UNFAMILIAR WITH THAT VENUE’S ARBITRATION LAWS AND PROCEDURES.
MR STOCK SAID IT WAS THIS PROBLEM THAT WAS ADDRESSED BY THE UNITED NATIONS COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE LAW (UNCITRAL) IN THE HOPE THAT IF COMMON PROCEDURES WERE APPLIED, BUSINESSMEN COULD CHOOSE A VENUE FOR ITS CONVENIENCE AND PUT ASIDE WORRIES ABOUT PROCEDURAL MATTERS.
UNCITRAL PRODUCED ITS MODEL LAW IN 1985, AND THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE UNITED NATIONS PASSED A RESOLUTION CALLING ON ALL STATES TO GIVE DUE CONSIDERATIOxN TO ADOPTION OF THE MODEL LAW.
"THE BASIC PHILOSOPHY OF THE MODEL LAW IS TO PROVIDE THE INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COMMUNITY WITH A UNIVERSAL CODE EXPRESSED CLEARLY AND WHICH IS AIMED AT SPEEDY RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES WITH MINIMAL INTERFERENCE BY THE COURTS AND WITHOUT ELABORATE PROCEDURES," MR STOCK ADDED.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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/57........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
57
NEW RANK BEING CREATED IN IMMIGRATION DEPT ♦ * * * *
THE IMMIGRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO. 4) BILL 1989, WHICH SEEKS TO AMEND THE IMMIGRATION ORDINANCE TO INCORPORATE THE NEW RANK OF CHIEF IMMIGRATION ASSISTANT WHICH WILL BE CREATED IN THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT, WAS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON GEOFFREY BARNES. SAID THIS RESTRUCTURING WOULD NOT ONLY ENABLE THE MORE SENIOR OFFICERS TO CONCENTRATE ON THE MORE IMPORTANT AND COMPLEX TASKS BUT WOULD LEAD TO THE EVENTUAL ABOLITION OF THE ASSISTANT IMMIGRATION OFFICER RANK. THEREBY STREAMLINING THE OFFICER GRADE AND ACHIEVING SOME SAVINGS.
MR BARNES SAID THERE WERE TWO DISCIPLINED GRADES IN THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT -- THE IMMIGRATION OFFICER GRADE AND THE IMMIGRATION ASSISTANT GRADE.
THE IMMIGRATION OFFICER GRADE COMPRISED SIX RANKS STARTING WITH THE RANK OF ASSISTANT IMMIGRATION OFFICER, WHILE THE IMMIGRATION ASSISTANT GRADE COMPRISED THE RANKS OF SENIOR IMMIGRATION ASSISTANT AND IMMIGRATION ASSISTANT.
MR BARNES SAID IN ORDER TO COPE WITH THE INCREASING DEMAND FOR SERVICES. AND HAVING REGARD TO THE GROWING COMPLEXITY OF IMMIGRATION WORK. THE LESS COMPLEX DUTIES OF IMMIGRATION OFFICERS WOULD NOW DEVOLVE UPON THE NEW RANK OF CHIEF IMMIGRATION ASSISTANT WHICH WOULD BE CREATED ABOVE THE EXISTING SENIOR IMMIGRATION ASSISTANT RANK.
"THIS WILL MEAN THAT MOST OF THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF ASSISTANT IMMIGRATION OFFICERS WILL BE TRANSFERRED TO CHIEF IMMIGRATION ASSISTANTS, WHILE THE REMAINING DUTIES OF ASSISTANT IMMIGRATION OFFICERS WILL BE ABSORBED BY IMMIGRATION OFFICERS." HE SAID.
SINCE THE POWERS OF THE OFFICERS IN THE DIFFERENT LEVELS OF THE DEPARTMENT WERE SET OUT IN THE IMMIGRATION ORDINANCE. MR BARNES SAID THE PROPOSED RESTRUCTURING OF IMMIGRATION GRADES MADE AMENDMENTS TO THE ORDINANCE NECESSARY.
"CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENTS WILL ALSO BE MADE TO THE IMMIGRATION SERVICE ORDINANCE AND IMMIGRATION REGULATIONS." HE SAID.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
58
TOURIST ASSOCIATION *
TO MEET CHALLENGES AHEAD ♦ * * *
THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD DULY RECOGNISE THAT THE HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION. IN PROMOTING ONE OF THE BIGGEST FOREIGN CURRENCY EARNING INDUSTRIES IN HONG KONG. HAS TO RESPOND TO A FAST-CHANGING BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT.
’’THIS IS EXACTLY WHY THE ASSOCIATION HAS FROM ITS OUTSET BEEN A PUBLIC BODY BUT NOT A GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT. SO THAT UNNECESSARY RED-TAPE CAN BE AVOIDED. WHILE AT THE SAME TIME NOT LOSING SIGHT OF THE NEED FOR ACCOUNTABILITY.” THE HON MARTIN BARROW SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING IN SUPPORT OF THE HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989. MR BARROW, WHO IS ALSO CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION. SAID THAT THE TOURIST INDUSTRY WAS A VOLATILE SERVICE INDUSTRY AND THERE WERE MANY CHALLENGES AHEAD.
”THE SHORTAGE OF EXPERIENCED AND TRAINED PERSONNEL IS ALREADY ERODING OUR SERVICE STANDARDS: THERE IS THE STIFF COMPETITION OF OTHER COUNTRIES IN EAST ASIA. AND THE RECENT EVENTS IN CHINA HAVE PROMPTED MANY WESTERN VISITORS TO DEFER THEIR TRIPS TO THE REGION." HE NOTED.
MR BARROW CALLED ON THE GOVERNMENT NOT TO LOSE SIGHT OF ALL THESE FACTORS AND TO FLEXIBILITY APPLY THE PRINCIPLES OF THE HONG KONG TOURIST ASSOCIATION (AMENDMENT) BILL. WHICH SET OUT TO FORMALISE THE FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE TOURIST ASSOCIATION.
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
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WIDE-RANGING PROGRAMME FOR ROYAL VISITORS * * * * *
A BUSY AND WIDE-RANGING PROGRAMME WILL TAKE THE PRINCE OF WALES FROM THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE ON HONG KONG ISLAND TO GURKHA POSITIONS ON THE BORDER WITH CHINA TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
IN A SEPARATE PROGRAMME. THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL TRAVEL FROM THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL AT WONG CHUK HANG ON THE SOUTH OF HONG KONG ISLAND TO TUEN MUN IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WILL START THEIR OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS TOGETHER WHEN THE PRINCE OF WALES OFFICIALLY OPENS THE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE IN WAN CHAI.
JUST OVER THREE YEARS AGO. THE QUEEN LAID THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE CENTRE DURING HER VISIT TO HONG KONG IN OCTOBER 1986.
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES WILL ARRIVE BY CAR AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE CENTRE AND TRAVEL BY ESCALATOR TO THE CONVENTION HALL WHERE HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL UNVEIL A COMMEMORATIVE SCULPTURE ENTITLED ‘’CONVENTION”' BY AWARD-WINNING. HONG KONG-BORN SCULPTOR ARIES LEE. WHO IS NOW BASED IN JAPAN.
THE ROYAL COUPLE WILL THEN PROCEED BY ESCALATOR TO THE UPPER EXHIBITION HALL TO SEE THE SHOWCASE 89 EXHIBITION.
THE SECOND SUCH ANNUAL EXHIBITION TO BE STAGED BY THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL. SHOWCASE 89 HAS ATTRACTED MORE THAN 200 EXHIBITORS. COMPARED WITH 125 LAST YEAR.
IT IS AIMED AT PROMOTING LOCAL CONSUMPTION OF HONG KONG-MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS AND TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL BUSINESSMEN TO TEST THE MARKET POTENTIAL OF THEIR PRODUCTS.
THE ROYAL PARTY WILL THEN GO TO LEVEL FIVE TO VIEW THE BRITAIN IN HONG KONG EXHIBITION.
ORGANISED BY FAIRS b EXHIBITIONS LTD OF LONDON FOR THE GOVERNMENT’S DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY. THE THREE-DAY EXHIBITION DISPLAYS THE BEST OF BRITISH MANUFACTURING. SERVICES AND INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY.
AFTER SEEING THE EXHIBITION. THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL LEAVE FOR CHAK ON HOUSING ESTATE. KOWLOON. WHERE SHE WILL VISIT THE HELPING HAND CARE HOME.
THE PRINCE OF WALES WILL TOUR ANOTHER EVENT BEING HELD IN THE CENTRE. THE BRITISH EDUCATION EXHIBITION.
TO HELP HONG KONG STUDENTS WHO ARE CONSIDERING STUDYING IN BRITAIN. THE BRITISH COUNCIL IS BOLDING THE EXHIBITION FROM NOVEMBER 9 TO 12.
/AFTER SPENDING
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AFTER SPENDING NEARLY TWO HOURS IN THE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL LEAVE BY CAR FOR HMS TAMAR FROM WHERE HE WILL FLY BY HELICOPTER TO THE BORDER TO VISIT THE 2ND BATTALION OF THE 2ND KING EDWARD VII’S OWN GURKHA RIFLES (THE S1RMOOR RIFLES). OF WHICH HE IS COLONEL-IN-CHI EI'.
FOR HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE VISIT IS A CHANCE TO RENEW AN OLD FRIENDSHIP BECAUSE THE BATTALION’S COMMANDANT. LIEUTENANT COLONEL CHRISTOPHER LAVENDER. IS A FORMER EQUERRY TO THE PRINCE OF WALES.
AFTER A BRIEFING BY LT. COL. LAVENDER AT THE CREST HILL BORDER POSITION HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL FLY TO GALLIPOLI LINES WHERE. AT A SPECIAL CEREMONY. HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL PRESENT THE PRINCE OF WALES KUKRI TO COLOUR SERGEANT MAHENDRA THAPA.
A LAVISHLY ORNATE VERSION OF THE TRADITIONAL GURKHA KNIFE. THE PRINCE OF WALES KUKRI HAS BEEN PRESENTED ANNUALLY SINCE 1979 TO THE SOLDIER OR SENIOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER OF THE FIRST OR SECOND BATTALION WHO IS JUDGED TO HAVE CONTRIBUTED MOST TO THE REGIMENT DURING THE YEAR.
FOLLOWING HIS TOUR OF GALLIPOLI LINES HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL LUNCH WITH THE BATTALION BEFORE DEPARTING BY HELICOPTER FOR TUEN MUN.
WHILE HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS IS VISITING THE 2/2 GURKHAS THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL SEE HOW SOME OF HONG KONG’S ELDERLY ARE CARED FOR WHEN SHE VISITS THE HELPING HAND CARE CENTRE AT CHAK ON ESTATE. KOWLOON.
THE CARE HOME AT CHAK ON ESTATE IS ONE OF THE LATEST TO BE OPENED BY HELPING HAND AND CAN HOUSE UP TO 78 OLD PEOPLE.
THE CHAIRMAN OF HELPING HAND, MRS MARGARET CARTER. WILL ESCORT THE PRINCESS OF WALES TO THE COMMUNITY ROOM FOR A SHORT BRIEFING ON THE HISTORY OF HELPING HAND.
AFTER THE BRIEFING. THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL CHAT WITH ELDERLY RESIDENTS BEFORE WALKING ACROSS THE HOUSING ESTATE TO THE WING CHAK HONE WHERE SHE WILL SEE VOLUNTEER MEDICAL OFFICER. DR. STEPHEN TSE. GIVING A.MEDICAL CHECKUP TO ONE OF THE RESIDENTS.
THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL UNVEIL A COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE BEFORE LEAVING FOR THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL AT ABERDEEN.
ON ARRIVAL AT THE PTS SHE WILL BE GIVEN A ROYAL SALUTE BY A QUARTER GUARD AT THE MAIN GATE AND BE RECEIVED ALONGSIDE THE DRILL SQUARE BY THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE. MR RAYMON ANNING.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL SEE TRAINEES TAKING DRILL INSTRUCTION ON THE SQUARE AND OTHER RECRUITS BEING GIVEN AN EXAMINATION IN HANDLING SMITH AND WESSON REVOLVERS. REMINGTON SHOTGUNS. ARI 5 RIFLES AND SMOKE PISTOLS.
SHE WILL ALSO SEE RECRUITS UNDERGOING PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT TESTS ON HOW TO HANDLE INCIDENTS.
/IN THE
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IN THE GYMNASIUM HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL WATCH RECRUITS PRACTISING AIKIDO. THE FORM OF SELF-DEFENCE ADOPTED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL LUNCH IN THE OFFICERS' MESS WHERE SHE WILL BE CEREMONIALLY PIPED INTO THE DINING ROOM BY PIPE MAJOR HSU YORK-FUNG.
AFTER LUNCH THE COMMISSIONER WILL PRESENT HER ROYAL HIGHNESS A SILVER-PLATED. PEWTER FIGURE OF A ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE CONSTABLE AS A MEMENTO.
BEFORE LEAVING BY HELICOPTER FOR TUEN MUN THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL MEET AND TALK WITH POLICE FAMILIES.
AFTER THEIR SEPARATE PROGRAMMES THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES WILL MEET AT THE TANG SHIV KIN SPORTS GROUND. WHERE THEIR WESSEX HELICOPTERS OF 28 SQUADRON. ROYAL AIR FORCE WILL LAND. AND THEY WILL TRAVEL BY CAR TO THE TUEN MUN TOWN HALL FOR THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF THE TUEN MUN FESTIVAL.
THE ROYAL VISITORS WILL WALK TO THE SOUTHERN END OF THE TOWN HALL CONCOURSE WHERE THEY WILL SEE LOCAL RESIDENTS PERFORMING AEROBIC AND MORRIS DANCING.
AT AN EXHIBITION OF PHOTOGRAPHS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF TUEN MUN NEW TOWN THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WILL BE BRIEFED ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE AREA.
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES WILL SEPARATELY WALK THROUGH A CARNIVAL AND GAMES STALL AREA. PAUSING TO CHAT TO SOME OF THE CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE AT PLAY.
THE ROYAL COUPLE WILL THEN MEET AT AN ADJACENT GARDEN TO SEE A COLLECTION OF BONSAI FROM CHING CHUNG MONASTERY. THERE THE CHIEF PASTOR OF CHING CHUNG MONASTERY. MR HAU PO-WOON. WILL BE PRESENTED TO THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES.
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WILL LEAVE BY CAR FOR THE TANG SHIU KIN SPORTS GROUND FROM WHERE THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL FLY BACK TO HMS TAMAR.
THE PRINCE OF WALES WILL TRAVEL BY CAR TO SHUI TAU VILLAGE WHERE HE WILL BE ESCORTED TO THE TANG CHING-LOK CHI ANCESTRAL HALL IN SHUI MEI VILLAGE.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL CALL ON MADAM TANG AT NO 35. SHUI TAU. THE HOUSE IS BETWEEN 100 AND 200 YEARS OLD AND IS AN EXAMPLE OF THE TRADITIONAL NEW TERRITORIES VILLAGE-TYPE ARCHITECTURE.
THE PRINCE OF WALES WILL CONTINUE HIS WALK THROUGH THE VILLAGE AND VISIT THE SO LAU YUEN. OR HALL. BUILT IN THE CHING DYNASTY (1614-1911) AS A PRIVATE STUDY HALL.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL BE BRIEFED ON THE HISTORY OF THE HALL AND SEE EXHIBITS OF OLD FARMING EQUIPMENT.
/AFTER HIS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
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AFTER HIS VISIT TO THE VILLAGE HE WILL LEAVE IN A RAF WESSEX HELICOPTER FOR HNS TAMAR.
IN THE EVENING, THE END OF HER BUSY VISIT TO HONG KONG THE PRINCESS OF WALES WILL LEAVE THE TERRITORY FOR LONDON ON BOARD THE SCHEDULED BRITISH AIRWAYS FLIGHT.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL TRAVEL FROM HMS TAMAR BY CAR TO HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WHERE THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON. AND LADY WILSON WILL TAKE THEIR LEAVE OF THE ROYAL VISITOR.
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PRINCE OF WALES VISITS CITY POLYTECHNIC ♦ * t t *
THE PRINCE OF WALES SAW HOW COMPUTERS ARE HELPING THE DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG INDUSTRY WHEN HE VISITED THE CITY POLYTECHNIC TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS VISITED THE POLYTECHNIC’S COMPUTER CENTRE, CENTRALISED LABORATORIES AND THE COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN CENTRE.
HE ARRIVED AT CITY POLYTECHNIC BY CAR AFTER HIS VISIT TO CHUK YUEN ESTATE IN KOWLOON.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CITY POLYTECHNIC COUNCIL. MR. CHENG HON-KWAN. PRESENTED THE POLYTECHNIC’S DIRECTOR, PROFESSOR CHENG YIU-CHUNG: THE ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR (ADMINISTRATION). MR. KEITH HOUGHTON: THE ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR (RESOURCES) MR.JOHN DOCKERILL. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR (RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT). PROFESSOR BENJAMIN T’SOU; ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR (ACADEMIC) PROFESSOR COLIN FIELD: DEPUTY COUNCIL CHAIRMAN. MR. NIGEL RIGG; COUNCIL TREASURER. MR. JOHN STRICKLAND: CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNCIL’S ESTATES AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, DR. RAYMOND HO AND STUDENT’S UNION PRESIDENT. MR. WILL MA.
THE PRINCE OF WALES WAS TOLD WAS FORMALLY ESTABLISHED IN JANUARY 1700 DEGREE AND DIPLOMA GRADUATES.
THAT SINCE THE CITY POLYTECHNIC 1984 IT HAS PRODUCED MORE THAN
THE FIRST INTAKE OF STUDENTS WAS ADMITTED IN OCTOBER 1984 AND CONSISTED OF 1.230 STUDENTS TAKING A TOTAL OF 12 FULL-TIME AND PART-TIME COURSES OFFERED BY FOUR DEPARTMENTS.
IN JANUARY THIS YEAR THE STUDENT POPULATION HAD GROWN TO 7.000. ABOUT HALF OF WHOM WERE ON FULL-TIME COURSES. BY OCTOBER THE STUDENT POPULATION TOTALLED 9.300 OF WHOM HALF WERE ON FULL-TIME OR SANDWICH MODE COURSES.
/THESE COURSES
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THESE COURSES ARE VOCATIONALLY ORIENTATED AND STRONGLY GEARED TO THE DEMANDS OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY IN HONG KONG.
THE FIRST BACHELOR’S DEGREE COURSES WERE INTRODUCED IxN 1986-87. THERE IS NOW A DIVERSITY OF AWARDS RANGING FROM MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY DEGREE BY RESEARCH. MASTER’S DEGREE BY COURSEWORK AND EXAMINATION. POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA, POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE. BACHELOR’S DEGREE. PROFESSIONAL DIPLOMA. HIGHER DIPLOMA TO HIGHER CERTIFICATE AND DIPLOMA.
THE PRINCE OF WALES SAW A DEMONSTRATION OF THE CAMPU-WIDE VIDEO-TEC SYSTEM. A COMPUTERISED INFORMATION SERVICE DEVISED BY THE SYSTEMS ANALYST OF THE COMPUTER CENTRE. MRS LOUISA TANG, WHO WAS PRESENTED TO THE ROYAL VISITOR.
THE ROYAL PARTY ALSO VISITED THE CENTRALISED LABORATORIES WHERE PROFESSOR ALAN JEARY. THE HEAD OF CENTRALISED LABORATORIES AND PROFESSOR ENOCH YOUNG. THE HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEMONSTRATED SOME OF THE EXPERIMENTS BEING CONDUCTED IN THIS UNIQUE APPROACH TO SHARED-FACILITY LABORATORY TEACHING.
AT THE SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION LABORATORY THE HEAD OF THE EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY CENTRE, MR ALAN CUTTING. INVITED HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS TO LISTEN THROUGH HEADPHONES TO A STUDENT’S MEETING BEING HELD IN CANTONESE AND BEING INTERPRETED SIMULTANEOUSLY INTO ENGLISH AND PUTONGHUA.
THE DISCUSSION THEN SWITCHED INTO ENGLISH AND THE PRINCE OF WALES JOINED IN. HIS REMARKS BEING SIMULTANEOUSLY TRANSLATED INTO TWO OTHER LANGUAGES.
IN THE COMPUTER TERMINAL ROOM HEAD OF THE COMPUTER CENTRE. MR. POON KEE-WO SHOWED HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS A GROUP OF STUDENTS TRANSLATING A WORDSWORTH POEM INTO CHINESE USING COMPUTERISED WORD PROCESSING.
IN THE COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN CENTRE THE HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING. DR. K.V. PATRI AND THE DEPARTMENT’S PRINCIPAL LECTURER, DR EDMUND CHEUNG. WERE PRESENTED.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS SAW A COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN DEMONSTRATION AND CHATTED BRIEFLY TO COLLEGE STUDENTS WHO WERE PRACTISING CAD WORK USING A SOFTWARE PACKAGE PRODUCED BY MCDONNEL DOUGLAS IN THE USA.
AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE POLYTECHNIC MR. CHENG HON-KWAN PRESENTED THE BUILDING’S TWO PRINCIPAL ARCHITECTS, MS CLAUDIA ESDAILE AND MR CHUNG-WAH MAN AND THE CONTRACTOR, MR. JOHN FAULKNER.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS UNVEILED A COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE BEFORE LEAVING BY CAR FOR HMY BRITANNIA.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
6U
GLITTERING ROYAL OPENING FOR CULTURAL CENTRE * * t * *
IT WAS A GLITTERING ROYAL GALA NIGHT SUCH AS HONG KONG HAS RARELY SEEN WHEN THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES TONIGHT (WEDNESDAY) OFFICIALLY OPENED THE HONG KONG CULTURAL CENTRE IN KOWLOON.
THE CENTRE, WITH ITS 2,100 SEAT CONCERT HALL AND 8000-PIPE, 93-STOP AUSTRIAN ORGAN HAS BEEN DESIGNED AS A FOCAL POINT FOR CULTURAL ACTIVITIES IN THE TERRITORY.
THE BUILDING, COMMANDING A CENTRA). WATERFRONT POSITION IN TSIM SHA TSUI, HAS A STRIKING DESIGN AND UP-TO-DATE FACILITIES AND IS DESTINED TO BECOME A FAMOUS LANDMARK AS WELL AS A VENUE FOR INTERNATIONAL PERFORMERS.
AMONG THE FIRST CLASS FACILITIES IT OFFERS FOR CONCERTS. CONFERENCES AND MEETINGS ARE A CONCERT HALL. GRAND THEATRE. STUDIO THEATRE, EXHIBITION AREAS, RESTAURANTS AND BARS AS WELL AS NUMEROUS ANCILLARY ROOMS.
USING THE LATEST STRUCTURAL DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY THE CENTRE CAN CATER TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE LARGEST ORCHESTRAL CONCERTS. THEATRE, OPERA AND DANCE PRODUCTIONS WHILE MAINTAINING THE IMPORTANT LINK BETWEEN PERFORMERS AND AUDIENCE.
ATTENDING THE LAST FUNCTION OF THE DAY, THE PRINCESS OF WALES WORE A CREAM STRAPLESS BEADED AND SEQUINNED SLIM FITTING LONG EVENING DRESS WITH A MATCHING SHORT SLEEVE BOLERO WITH HIGH STAND-UP COLLAR AND CREAM SATIN SHOES, DESIGNED BY CATHERINE WALKER OF CHELSEA DESIGN. SHE ALSO WORE A DIAMOND AND PEARL DROP TIARA.
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES ARRIVED AT THE CULTURAL CENTRE BY CAR FROM HMS TAMAR AND WERE RECEIVED BY THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON WHO PRESENTED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL, MR. H.M.G.FORSGATE AND MRS FORSGATE.
MR. FORSGATE THEN PRESENTED THE VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL. MR. STEPHEN LAU AND MRS LAU: THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNCIL’S CULTURE SELECT COMMITTEE. MR. LO KING-MAN AND MRS LO; THE DIRECTOR OF URBAN SERVICES, MR. JAMES SO AND MRS. SO AND THE DIRECTOR OF ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES, MR JOSE LEI AND MRS LEI.
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WERE ESCORTED TO THE CONCERT HALL WHERE THEY HEARD A PERFORMANCE BY THE LONDON BACH CHOIR ACCOMPANIED BY THE HONG KONG PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA.
DURING A 20-MINUTE INTERVAL. THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES MET A NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO WERE INVOLVED IN THE PERFORMANCE.
AFTER THE CONCERT THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES SIGNED THE VISITORS’ BOOK AND WERE ESCORTED TO THE FOYER WHERE THEY SPOKE WITH SOME OF THE 400 ASSEMBLED PEOPLE WHO HAD BEEN INVOLVED IN THE CULTURAL CENTRE PROJECT OR WHO HAD TAKEN PART IN THE PERFORMANCE.
/SOME OF ......
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SOME OF THE GUESTS WERE PRESENTED TO THE PRINCE OF WALES BY MR FORSGATE WHILE OTHERS WERE PRESENTED TO HER ROYAL HIGHNESS BY MRS FORSGATE.
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES UNVEILED A PLAQUE IN THE EOYER TO MARK THE OCCASION AND MR. FORSGATE INVITED THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES TO ACCEPT A COMMEMORATIVE BOOKLET OF PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE CULTURAL CENTRE.
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES LEFT FOR HMY BRITANNIA BY CAR.
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ROYAL VISITOR TRAVELS BY TUBE
*»»»♦»
THE PRINCE OF WALES HAD A DRIVER’S EYE-VIEW OF THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WHEN HE TRAVELLED IN THE DRIVER’S CABIN OF A TRAIN BETWEEN LAM TIN AND QUARRY BAY STATIONS.
HE ROUNDED OFF HIS UNDERGROUND TRIP BY TRAVELLING IN A NORMAL ISLAND LINE TRAIN FROM QUARRY BAY TO ADMIRALTY.
THE TRIP CAME AT THE END OF A VISIT TO THE NEW EASTERN HARBOUR TUNNEL WHEN HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS UNVEILED TWO PLAQUES TO COMMEMORATE THE OPENING OF THE TUNNEL AND THE SECOND MTR LINK ACROSS VICTORIA HARBOUR.
THE PRINCE OF WALES ARRIVED AT THE EASTERN HARBOUR TUNNEL BY CAR AFTER LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AT CLEARWATER BAY.
THE $4 BILLION TUNNEL WAS BUILT BY THE NEW HONGKONG TUNNEL CO. A CONSORTIUM COMPRISING JAPAN’S KUMAGAI GUMI (56.25%): THE MAINLAND CHINESE BANKING AND BUSINESS CORPORATION. CHINA INTERNATIONAL TRUST AND INVESTMENT CORPORATION (CITIC). WHICH OWNS 24.5 PER CENT: HONG KONG’S PAUL Y CONSTRUCTION CO (6.65 %): THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT (5 %): BRITAIN’S LILLEY CONSTRUCTION CO (1.76%) AND JAPAN’S MARUBENI CORPORATION (2.85%).
THE MAIN CONTRACTOR WAS KUMAGAI GUMI WHILE PAUL Y DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTED THE APPROACH ROADS ON HONG KONG ISLAND AND THE QUARRY BAY MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY STATION.
TO BUILD THE TUNNEL A DRY DOCK WAS CREATED IN A QUARRY AT CHA KWO LING ON THE KOWLOON SIDE. HERE. HUGE PRECAST CONCRETE "BOXES" WERE BUILT IN THREE BATCHES OF FIVE. THEY RANGED IN LENGTH FROM 122 TO 128 METRES AND EACH WAS 34.45 METRES WIDE AND 9.75 METRES DEEP AND WEIGHED UP TO 42.800 TONNES.
/WHEN EACH .......
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WHEN EACH BATCH OF "BOXES" WAS COMPLETED THE DRY DOCK WAS FLOODED AND THE UNITS FLOATED OUT INTO THE HARBOUR WHERE THEY WERE SUNK INTO POSITION IN PREPARED TRENCHES.
INSTALLATION OF THE IMMERSED TUBE WAS COMPLETED IN NOVEMBER 1988. THE DRY DOCK. NOW NEEDED NO LONGER. WAS CONVERTED INTO THE TOLL PLAZA AND ADMINISTRATION AREA.
WHEN THE PRINCE OF WALES ARRIVED AT THE ADMINISTRATION BUILDING AT CHA KWO LING THE DEPUTY CHAIRMAN OF THE NEW HONGKONG TUNNEL COMPANY. MR. NORMAN THOMPSON. PRESENTED THE PRESIDENT OF KUMAGAI GUMI. MR. TACHIRO KUMAGAI: THE VICE-CHAIRMAN AND MANAGING DIRECTOR CITIC HONG KONG LTD. MR. LARRY YUNG: THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF MARUBENI CORPORATION, MR M. YOSHIDA: THE CHAIRMAN. LILLEY CONSTRUCTION CO LTD. MR L. ROBERTSON: THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF PAUL Y LTD. MRS THERESA LAU AND THE GENERAL MANAGER OF THE TUNNEL COMPANY. MR VICTOR LEUNG.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS UNVEILED A PLAQUE OUTSIDE THE BUILDING AND WAS LATER SHOWN AROUND THE COMPUTERISED CONTROL ROOM WHERE MR. LEUNG GAVE A BRIEFING ON THE WORKINGS OF THE TUNNEL.
THE PRINCE OF WALES LEFT BY CAR FOR THE LAM TIM MTR STATION WHERE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION. MR. HAMISH MATHERS. PRESENTED THE MTR’S OPERATIONS DIRECTOR AND DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR MR DAVID BARRACLOUGH. THE OPERATING MANAGER MR. ROGER KYNASTON AND LAM TIM STATION MASTER MR. Y.L. YEUNG.
THE ROYAL PARTY TRAVELLED BY ESCALATOR TO THE CONCOURSE LEVEL WHERE MR. MATHERS PRESENTED THE SECRETARY FOR MONETARY AFFAIRS. MR. DAVID NENDICK: THE MTRC1S FINANCE DIRECTOR. MR. ROGER MOSS. THE LEGAL DIRECTOR AND SECRETARY, MR. LEK TURK. OPERATIONS DIRECTOR DESIGNATE. MR. BILL DONALD AND THE PROJECT DIRECTOR, KUMAGAI GUMI CO LTD, MR. Y. MATSUMOTO.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS UNVEILED A PLAQUE COMMEMORATING THE OPENING OF THE EASTERN HARBOUR RAIL CROSSING AND THEN BOARDED A SPECIAL TRAIxN IN WHICH HE TRAVELLED FROM LAM TIN TO QUARRY BAY IN THE DRIVER’S CAB. .
HE LATER BOARDED A NORMAL ISLAND LINE TRAIN ON WHICH HE TRAVELLED TO ADMIRALTY STATION FROM WHERE HE LEFT BY CAR FOR LUNCH AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE.
/67.......
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PRINCESS OF WALES MEETS RED CROSS YOUTH
* * * * *
THE ACCENT WAS ON YOUTH WHEN THE PRINCESS OF WALES OFFICIALLY OPENED THE NEW HONG KONG ISLAND DIVISIONAL HEADQUARTERS OF THE RED CROSS AT THE SOUTHORN CENTRE. WAN CHAI. TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE PREMISES FORM ONE OF THREE DIVISIONAL HEADQUARTERS SERVING THE RED CROSS YOUTH OF THE HONG KONG RED CROSS YOUTH AND WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
THE HONG KONG ISLAND DIVISION WAS ESTABLISHED IN THE 1960S BUT HAS ONLY JUST ACQUIRED ITS OWN SEPARATE HEADQUARTERS.
THE NEW HQ HAS A TOTAL OF 277 SQUARE METRES (2,980 SQUARE FEET) OF FLOOR SPACE. IT INCLUDES FOUR LECTURE ROOMS. TWO STAFF WORK ROOMS. A CONFERENCE ROOM AND AN EQUIPMENT DEPOT AREA FOR THE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT LOAN SERVICE.
WITH A DAILY DROP-IN RATE OF 120 PEOPLE.THE NEW HQ PROVIDES AN ESSENTIAL BASE FOR ADMINISTERING. COORDINATING AND PROMOTING TRAINING. SERVICE AND OTHER ACTIVITIES OF THE 2.600 YOUTH AND ADULT MEMBERS OF THE HONG KONG ISLAND DIVISION.
ON HER FIRST OFFICIAL ENGAGMENT OF THE DAY. HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WORE A PRIMROSE YELLOW AND NAVY SILK SUIT. CONSISTING OF A YELLOW JACKET WITH NAVY LAPELS, CUFFS AND SKIRT TRIMMED WITH GILT BUTTONS. AND NAVY SHOES WITH BLACK PATENT TIP. DESIGNED BY CATHERINE WALKER OF CHELSEA DESIGN.
THE PRINCESS OF WALES ARRIVED AT SOUTHORN CENTRE BY CAR FROM HMS TAMAR AND THE SECRETARY ROYAL VISIT. MR. PETER HARVEY. PRESENTED THE PRESIDENT OF HONG KONG RED CROSS. SIR RUN RUN SHAW AND THE DEPUTY PRESIDENT AND CHAIRMAN. DR. T.C.CHENG.
ON THE SIXTH FLOOR OF SOUTHORN CENTRE SIR RUN RUN SHAW PRESENTED RED CROSS DIRECTOR MRS IRENE Y.L. CHEUNG. TREASURER MR IAN HARRIS. ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (YOUTH AND WELFARE) MR ERIC AU., SENIOR YOUTH OFFICER (HONG KONG ISLAND DIVISION) MR ADRIAN LEE AND BRANCH SECRETARY MR THOMAS SIN.
THE HONG KONG ISLAND DIVISION IS RUN MAINLY BY VOLUNTARY RED CROSS MEMBERS. THERE ARE ALTOGETHER 61 VOLUNTARY STAFF AND LEADERS. HEADED BY THE SENIOR YOUTH OFFICER. MR LEE. TOGETHER WITH FOUR FULL-TIME WORKERS THEY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR RUNNING THE 62 UNITS OF RED CROSS MEMBERS ON THE ISLAND.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS SAW A DEMONSTRATION OF FIRST AID TECHNIQUES BY SOME OF THE MEMBERS AFTER WHICH MR ERIC AU PRESENTED PRINCIPAL YOUTH AND WELFARE OFFICER MISS CHRISTINE FANG AND SENIOR STAFF OF THE DIVISION.
/THE PRINCESS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 68 -
THE PRINCESS OF WALES WAS THEN SHOWN A DISPLAY OF PHOTOGRAPHS AND CHARTS DEPICTING RED CROSS YOUTH AND WELFARE ACTIVITIES.
AFTER THE RED CROSS YOUTH CHOIR SANG THE RED CROSS YOUTH SONG HER ROYAL HIGHNESS UNVEILED A COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE.
BEFORE SHE LEFT BY CAR FOR HMS TAMAR. HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WENT UP TO THE CROWD OF PEOPLE WHO HAD LINED THE PAVEMENT TO WELCOME HER. AND SHOOK HANDS WITH MANY OF THEM.
-----0-----
PRINCE VISITS THIRD UNIVERSITY SITE ******
THE PRINCE OF WALES LEFT A MESSAGE FOR POSTERITY AT THE SITE OF HONG KONG’S THIRD UNIVERSITY TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE DEPOSITED A TIME CAPSULE DURING HIS VISIT TO THE CLEARWATER BAY SITE OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY WHICH IS EXPECTED TO BE TAKING ITS FIRST STUDENTS IN 1991.
ON HIS FIRST OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENT OF THE FIRST FULL DAY OF HIS FOUR-DAY VISIT TO THE TERRITORY. HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS FLEW TO THE UNIVERSITY SITE BY’ HELICOPTER.
BEFORE TAKEOFF FROM HMS TAMAR THE COMMANDER BRITISH FORCES. MAJOR-GENERAL PETER DUFFEL. PRESENTED THE CAPTAIN-IN-CHARGE HONG KONG. CAPTAIN P.DALRYMPLE-SMITH RN. AND THE COMMANDER ROYAL AIR FORCE HONG KONG. GROUP CAPTAIN D.J.HAMILTON RUMP RAF.
WHEN THE WESSEX HELICOPTER OF 28 SQUADRON RAF LANDED AT CLEARWATER BAY. THE PRINCE WAS RECEIVED BY THE DIRECTOR ROYAL VISIT. AIR COMMODORE VIVIAN WARRINGTON, WHO PRESENTED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL. SIR SZE-YUEN CHUNG.
THE PRINCE TRAVELLED BY LIGHT VAN FROM THE LANDING PAD TO THE FUTURE ENTRANCE TO THE UNIVERSITY WHERE SIR S.Y. CHUNG PRESENTED THE DEPUTY CHAIRMAN OF THE HKUST COUNCIL. MR. CHENG HONG-KWAN: THE VICE-CHANCELLOR. PROFESSOR CHIA-WEI WOO: AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB. MR. GORDON MACWHINNIE.
DONATIONS BY THE RHKJC ARE LARGELY FUNDING THE BUILDING OF THE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS.
SIR S. Y. CHUNG OFFICIALLY' WELCOMED HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WHO RESPONDED.
/HIS ROYAL .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 69 -
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS DEPOSITED A TIME CAPSULE AND OFFICIALLY LAID THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE UNIVERSITY.
THE TIME CAPSULE CONTAINS A MESSAGE TO THE UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY OF THE YEAR 2039. IT ALSO CONTAINS TODAY’S (WEDNESDAY. NOV 8) EDITIONS OF ENGLISH AND CHINESE NEWSPAPERS. MICROFILM OF THE UNIVERSITY PLANNING COMMITTEE’S REPORT. A VIDEOTAPE INTRODUCING THE UNIVERSITY’ AND COMMEMORATIVE STAMPS.
FOLLOWING THE FOUNDATION STONE LAYING CEREMONY THE VICE CHANCELLOR. PROFESSOR CHIA-WEI WOO. PRESENTED THE PRINCE WITH A COMMEMORATIVE ONYX BLOCK ON WHICH WERE INSCRIBED IN GOLD LETTERS THE WORDS INSCRIBED ON THE FOUNDATION STONE.
SIR S.Y. CHUNG THEN PRESENTED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CAMPUS PLANNING AND ESTATE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE. DR. CHAN NAI-KEONG: THE CHAIRMAN CONDITIONS' OF SERVICE COMMITTEE. MR STEVEN K.L.POON; THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB. MAJOR-GENERAL G. H. WATKINS. AND THE PRO-VICE CHANCELLOR (ADMINISTRATION AND BUSINESS). MR. I.F.C.MACPHERSON.
THE PRINCE WAS SHOWN A MODEL OF THE PROPOSED UNIVERSITY AND SIR S.Y. CHUNG PRESENTED THE PROJECT CONTROLLER. MR. W.J.GREIG AND PROJECT ARCHITECTS MR SIMON KWAN AND MR PETER HUGHES.
THE PRINCE SPOKE WITH GROUPS OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS. POTENTIAL UNDERGRADUATES AT THE UNIVERSITY. BEFORE LEAVING BY CAR FOR THE EASTERN HARBOUR TUNNEL.
-------o---------
HONG KONG GETS ROYAL PRAISE ♦ * * t ♦
THE PRINCE OF WALES TODAY (WEDNESDAY) DESCRIBED AS "HIGHLY IMPRESSIVE BY ANY STANDARDS" HONG KONG’S GOAL OF PROVIDING HIGHER EDUCATION FOR ONE IN FOUR STUDENTS.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS SPEAKING AT THE FOUNDATION STONE LAYING CEREMONY AT THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY.
HE DESCRIBED THE CEREMONY AS "A SIGNIFICANT MOMENT FOR HONG KONG AND FOR THE PEOPLE WHO ARE ITS FUTURE - THE YOUNG PEOPLE WHO WILL BE EDUCATED IN WHAT WILL NO DOUBT BECOME ’STATE OF THE ART’ SURROUNDINGS".
/HIS ROYAL .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
70
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS CONTINUED: "AS AN EXPERIENCED PRACTITIONER IN THE ART OF STATING THE OBVIOUS. I NEED HARDLY INFORM YOU THAT HONG KONG IS AN INDUSTRIAL. COMMERCIAL AND FINANCIAL CENTRE. FAMED THROUGHOUT THE WORLD. WHAT HAS BEEN ACHIEVED OVER MANY DECADES HAS BEEN BASED UPON THREE INVALUABLE RESOURCES - YOUR GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. A FINE NATURAL HARBOUR - BUT. ABOVE ALL. THE INGENUITY AND DETERMINATION OF THE INHABITANTS. THERE CAN BE NO MORE IMPORTANT INVESTMENT THAN DEVELOPING AND IMPROVING THE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE TO ALL. TO ENSURE THAT HONG KONG CAN MEET THE CHALLENGES OF THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY. AS IT HAS THOSE OF THE TWENTIETH. AND I RECOGNISE THE NATURE OF THOSE CHALLENGES THAT YOU FACE .
"TODAY’S CEREMONY' MARKS JUST SUCH AN INVESTMENT. TO DISCOVER THAT HONG KONG’S THIRD UNIVERSITY IS TO BE BUILT WITH THE HELP OF A GENEROUS DONATION FROM THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY' CLUB HAS COME AS A REVELATION TO AN HONORARY MEMBER OF THE BRITISH JOCKEY CLUB! CLEARLY. IT WOULD SEEM THAT I AM RUNNING MY ONE HORSE IN THE WRONG COUNTRY! BUT THIS NEW UNIVERSITY WILL PROVIDE SOMETHING OF A COPING-STONE TO THE BROAD EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM THAT HAS BEEN DEVELOPED HERE. NINE YEARS OF FREE AND COMPULSORY EDUCATION NOW PREPARE HONG KONG’S CHILDREN EITHER FOR HIGHER STUDIES OR TO ENTER THE WORKFORCE THAT POWERS HONG KONG’S REMARKABLE ECONOMY."
THE PRINCE OF WALES ADDED: "FOR THOSE THAT GO ON TO HIGHER STUDY. THE GOAL REMAINS A PLACE IN HONG KONG’S UNIVERSITIES. COLLEGES AND POLYTECHNICS. DRIVEN BY THE DETERMINATION OF PARENTS TO OBTAIN BETTER EDUCATION FOR THEIR CHILDREN, AND FUELLED BY THE NEEDS OF AN EVER MORE SOPHISTICATED ECONOMY. THE DEMAND FOR HIGHER EDUCATION IN HONG KONG HAS, I AM TOLD. RISEN DRAMATICALLY.
"THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT HAS THEREFORE MADE THE IMPROVEMENT AND EXPANSION OF TERTIARY EDUCATION ONE OF ITS MAIN PRIORITIES FOR THE COMING DECADE: THIS MUST SURELY BE A WISE DECISION - FIRST OF ALL TO PROVIDE THE TECHNICALLY-SKILLED WORKERS AND MANAGERS THAT HONG KONG NEEDS TO REMAIN COMPETITIVE INTERNATIONALLY' AND, SECONDLY. TO GIVE THE RIGHT SORT OF OPPORTUNITIES HERE. IN HONG KONG, FOR THE KIND OF ACADEMIC AND INTELLECTUAL FULFILMENT WHICH PEOPLE WILL OTHERWISE BE COMPELLED TO SEEK OVERSEAS.
"THE GOVERNMENT HAS SET ITSELF AND THE COMMUNITY AN AMBITIOUS TARGET: TO PROVIDE FIRST DEGREE PLACES FOR ABOUT A FIFTH OF THE RELEVANT AGE GROUP BY 1995. WHEN HIGHER DIPLOMA COURSES ARE INCLUDED. THIS MEANS THAT ROUGLY A QUARTER OF ALL STUDENTS WILL GO ON TO SOME FORM OF LOCAL HIGHER EDUCATION. SUCH A GOAL IS NOT ONLY ENCOURAGING -IT IS ALSO HIGHLY IMPRESSIVE BY’ AN STANDARDS.
"IN LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A NEW UNIVERSITY TODAY. EVEN IF THEY MOVE MY STONE SOMEWHERE ELSE AFTER I HAVE GONE. WE ARE ALSO LAYING A FURTHER FOUNDATION TO ENABLE HONG KONG’S YOUNG PEOPLE TO DEVELOP THEIR TALENTS AND POTENTIAL TO THE FULL. IN ORDER TO PRODUCE THE LEADERS OF COMMERCE. INDUSTRY. THE PROFESSIONS AND THE PUBLIC SERVICE THAT HONG KONG WILL NEED IN THE YEARS TO COME.
"IN THIS SENSE. WE ARE BUILDING FOR HONG KONG’S FUTURE.
"THIS UNIVERSITY IS A VITAL PART OF THE COMMUNITY’S COMMITMENT TO HONG KONG’S FUTURE. I WISH THE UN IVERSITY. .AND ALL ASSOCIATED WITH IT. EVERY SUCCESS - AND I HOPE THE RACING INDUSTRY WILL CONTINUE TO THRIVE TOO!"
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/71
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
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PRINCE OFFICIALLY OPENS EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING
******
THE PRINCE OF WALES DESCRIBED THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING AS ONE STEP FORWARD IN HONG KONG’S DETERMINATION TO BUILD A BETTER FUTURE.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE TUNNEL TODAY (WEDNESDAY). HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS SAID THE CEREMONY MARKED AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE IN HONG KONG'S PLANS TO EXPAND AND IMPROVE ITS ECONOMIC GROWTH.
HE ADDED: "IN MANY WAYS THE TUNNEL IS A SYMBOL OF HONG KONG ITSELF. IT HAS BEEN VERY MUCH AN INTERNATIONAL ENTERPRISE: THE FRANCHISE TO BUILD THE TUNNEL WAS GRANTED TO THE NEW HONG KONG TUNNEL COMPANY. A COMPANY FORMED BY BRITISH. JAPANESE. CHINESE AND LOCAL INTERESTS. THE CONTRACTORS. ENGINEERS. SUPPLIERS AND CONSULTANTS WHO JOINED FORCES TO COMPLETE IT COME FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD.
"THE FACT THAT WE ARE OPENING THIS TUNNEL MORE THAN FOUR MONTHS AHEAD OF A VERY TIGHT CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE IS LITTLE SHORT OF REMARKABLE FOR SUCH A COMPLEX ENGINEERING PROJECT.
"IT CERTAINLY MAKES A CHANGE FROM THE HOSPITAL I ONCE OPENED IN THE UK FOR WHICH MY GRANDMOTHER HAD LAID THE FOUNDATION STONE TWENTY YEARS BEFORE."
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS CONGRATULATED THE NEW HONG KONG TUNNEL COMPANY. THE CONTRACTORS. ENGINEERS. GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS. AND OTHER AGENCIES ON A SPLENDID ACHIEVEMENT.
HE CONTINUED: "THIS IS THE LARGEST SINGLE TRANSPORTATION PROJECT UNDERTAKEN BY THE PRIVATE SECTOR SO FAR IN HONG KONG’S HISTORY. IT IS ALSO ONE STEP FORWARD IN HONG KONG’S DETERMINATION TO BUILD FOR A BETTER FUTURE. I UNDERSTAND THAT PLANNING FOR A THIRD CROSS-HARBOUR TUNNEL ON THE WESTERN SIDE OF THE HARBOUR HAS ALREADY BEGUN. THE AIM IS TO COMPLETE IT BY 1998.
"WHAT HARD-PRESSED TRAVELLER ON HIS HARBOUR FERRY LESS THAN TWO DECADES AGO WOULD HAVE VISUALISED IN THE VICTORIA HARBOUR AREA THREE MAJOR ROAD TUNNELS. AND AT LEAST TWO RAIL TUNNELS. WITHIN TWENTY-FIVE YEARS?
"I AM DELIGHTED TO HAVE ARRIVED FOUR MONTHS EARLY IN ORDER TO DECLARE THIS EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING OPEN."
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/72........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
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PRINCE AND PRINCESS LUNCH
WITH COMMUNITY LEADERS
t ♦ * * *
AFTER A HECTIC MORNING SCHEDULE ON THE FIRST FULL DAY OF THEIR VISIT TO HONG KONG. THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES WERE ENTERTAINED TO LUNCH AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE BY THE GOVERNOR. SIR DAVID WILSON. AND LADY WILSON TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
ALSO ATTENDING THE LUNCH WERE 140 EXECUTIVE AND COUNCIL MEMBERS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS AND THEIR SPOUSES.
LEGISLATIVE
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES
ARRIVED AT GOVERNMENT
HOUSE
SEPARATELY HAVING OFFICIATED AT DIFFERENT
FUNCTIONS IN THE MORNING.
THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON PRESENTED MEMBERS OF THE GOVERNOR'S PRIVATE OFFICE TO THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES.
THOSE PRESENTED INCLUDED THE PRIVATE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR. MR CLINTON LEEKS: ASSISTANT PRIVATE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR, MISS MARGARET FONG: THE SENIOR PERSONAL ASSISTANT TO THE GOVERNOR. MISS JENNY BEST: THE SOCIAL SECRETARY. GOVERNMENT HOUSE. MISS KATIE COOPER: THE ASSISTANT SOCIAL SECRETARY, MISS TERESA LI: THE SENIOR PERSONAL SECRETARY TO THE PRIVATE SECRETARY. MISS ANNE KNOWLES; THE HOUSEKEEPER. MISS ALISON BROWN: THE DEPARTMENTAL SECRETARY. GOVERNMENT HOUSE. MRS VIVIAN TAM AND THE PERSONAL SECRETARY TO THE ASSISTANT PRIVATE SECRETARY. MISS JAMIE SIU.
AFTER LUNCH THE PRINCE OF WALES LEFT BY CAR FOR CHUK YUEN HOUSING ESTATE IN KOWLOON WHILE THE PRINCESS OF WALES RETURNED TO HMY BRITANNIA.
-----0-----
PRINCESS OF WALES MEETS SERVICE FAMILIES t * t t t
THE PRINCESS OF WALES CHATTED WITH WIVES AND CHILDREN OF BRITISH SERVICEMEN WHEN SHE TOOK A SHORT WALK THROUGH HMS TAMAR ON HER WAY TO HMY BRITANNIA TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS RETURNING TO THE ROYAL YACHT AFTER ATTENDING A LUNCH AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE GIVEN BY THE GOVERNOR. SIR DAVID WILSON. AND LADY WILSON.
ON ARRIVAL BY CAR AT THE MAIN GATE OF HMS TAMAR, THE PRINCESS OF WALES WAS RECEIVED BY THE DIRECTOR OF PROTOCOL. AIR COMMODORE VIVIAN WARRINGTON. WHO PRESENTED THE DEPUTY COMMANDER BRITISH FORCES. BRIGADIER G.G. ARNOLD.
/HE IN
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 75 -
HE IN TURN PRESENTED THE CAPTAIN-IN-CHARGE HONG KONG. CAPTAIN P. DALRYMPLE-SMITH AND THE COMMANDER ROYAL AIR FORCE. GROUP CAPTAIN D.J. HAMILTON RUMP. RAF, AND MRS HAMILTON RUMP.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS. ACCOMPANIED BY THE SERVICE COMMANDERS WALKED THROUGH THE GROUNDS OF HMS TAMAR ALONG A ROUTE LINED WITH DEPENDENTS OF BRITISH SERVICEMEN STATIONED IN HONG KONG.
DURING HER WALK SHE PAUSED TO TALK TO SEVERAL OF THOSE GATHERED TO GREET HER AND RECEIVED SEVERAL BOUQUETS OF FLOWERS FROM THE CHILDREN.
-----0------
CHUK YUEN FAMILY HAVE ROYAL VISITOR * * * * *
IT FAMILY. BUT HIS FAMILY
IS NOT EVERYDAY THAT A PRINCE DROPS IN ON A KOWLOON THAT IS JUST WHAT HAPPENED TO TAXI DRIVER LAI HOK-YUNG AND WHEN THE PRINCE OF WALES VISITED THEIR FLAT TODAY
(WEDNESDAY).
THE VISIT WAS PART OF HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS’S TOUR OF CHUK YUEN ESTATE.
HE CALLED AT FLAT NO 3510. WAI YUEN HOUSE. CHUK YUEN NORTH. THE HOME OF MR. LAI HOK-YUNG (44). HIS WIFE LEUNG YUK-CHUN (41). THEIR 15-YEAR-OLD SON LAI CHUN-SING AND DAUGHTER LAI KA-MAN (10).
THE LAIS ARE JUST FOUR OF THE 25,500 TENANTS OCCUPYING YUEN NORTH. THEY HAVE BEEN LIVING IN THE FLAT SINCE MAY THIS WHEN THEY’ MOVED FROM LOWER WONG TAI SIN ESTATE AS A RESULT HOUSING DEPARTMENT DEVELOPMENT.
CHUK
YEAR
OF A
MR. LAI OWNS HIS OWN TAXI. BYr DRIVING ON THE DAY-HIRING THE VEHICLE TO ANOTHER DRIVER FOR THE NIGHT SHIFT, $5,000 A MONTH.
SHIFT AND HE EARNS
HIS WIFE. MADAM LEUNG YUK-CHUN. EARNS & 1.000 A MONTH AS A PART-TIME AMAH AT A CLUBHOUSE IN SAN PO KONG.
SON1 LAI CHUN-SING IS STUDYING AT THE KWAI TECHNICAL SCHOOL WHILE HIS SISTER LAI KA-MAN ATTENDS CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL.
CHUNG GOVERNMENT
THE WONG TAI SIN
DURING HIS 10-MINUTE STAY. THE PRINCE OF WALES CHATTED THE LAIS AND ASKED A NUMBER OF QUESTIONS ABOUT THE FLAT IN WHICH THEY HAVE BEEN LIVING FOR THE PAST SIX MONTHS.
/THE PRINCE.......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
7^ -
THE PRINCE, IN RESPONSE TO A REQUEST. SIGNED TWO FIRST DAY COVERS FOR THE CHILDREN OF MR AND MRS LAI. HE ALSO HAD A CUP OF CHINESE TEA "KUK BO”.
BEFORE HIS DEPARTURE. HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS PRESENTED WITH A PICTURE BY THE FAMILY.
FOR THE PRINCE OF WALES HIS CALL ON THE LAIS WAS PART OF A 40-MINUTE TOUR OF CHUK YUEN NORTH AND SOUTH. TWIN ESTATES WHICH ARE HOME TO THOUSANDS OF LOCAL FAMILIES.
ACCOMPANIED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY. SIR DAVID AKERS-JONES, THE PRINCE OF WALES WENT TO THE ROOF OF WAI YUEN HOUSE FROM WHERE HE HAD A PANORAMIC VIEW OF CENTRAL KOWLOON. KAI TAK AIRPORT, VICTORIA HARBOUR AND THE HONG KONG ISLAND SKYLINE.
AT THE ROOFTOP LOOKOUT THE DIRECTOR OF HOUSING, MR. Y.L. PANG. PRESENTED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD. DR. LEE YUK-KWAN, THE MUTUAL AID COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN OF YUNG YUEN HOUSE. MR CHEUNG SHING-FU AND SENIOR HOUSING DEPARTMENT STAFF.
THE PRINCE OF WALES WAS BRIEFED ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF PUBLIC HOUSING PROGRAMMES IN CENTRAL KOWLOON. INCLUDING THE CLEARANCE OF KOWLOON WALLED CITY. AND ON THE WORK OF THE HONG KONG HOUSING AUTHORITY.
THE DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, DR. S.B. REED. BRIEFED HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS AND REMEDIES IN1 THE AREA, AFTER WHICH THE ROYAL VISITOR DROPPED IN ON THE LAIS.
WAI YUEN HOUSE IS ONE OF EIGHT OF THE LATEST TRIDENT 3 BLOCKS OF 33 STORIES EACH AT CHUK YUEN NORTH. THE FIRST WAS COMPLETED IN 1987 AND THE LAST AT THE BEGINNING OF THIS YEAR.
THERE ARE CURRENTLY 25,500 TENANTS IN THE ESTATE AND THE TOTAL POPULATION WILL BE ABOUT 32,000 WHEN IT IS FULLY OCCUPIED.
FROM THE ROOFTOP HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS DESCENDED BY LIFT AND USED THE FOOTBRIDGE OVER CHUK YUEN ROAD TO VISIT CHUK YUEN SOUTH.
COMPLETED IN THREE STAGES BETWEEN 1984 AND 1987. THIS ESTATE CONSISTS OF SEVEN BLOCKS OF VARIOUS DESIGNS TOTALLING 6.644 FLATS.
THE POPULATION IS ABOUT 25.000 WITH A HIGHER THAN AVERAGE PROPORTION OF ELDERLY AND SINGLE PERSON UNITS AS A RESULT OF THE POPULATION MOVEMENT ARISING FROM THE KOWLOON CENTRAL REDEVELOPMENT.
THE PRINCE OF WALES WALKED THROUGH THE COMPLEX WHICH FORMS THE HEART OF THE ESTATE. A FOUR-STOREY COMMERCIAL CENTRE. SERVED BY LIFTS AND ESCALATORS. WITH A WIDE RANGE OF SHOPS, SUPERMARKETS. RESTAURANTS AND 180 MARKET STALLS.
FROM THE SHOPPING COMPLEX HE LEFT BY CAR FOR THE CITY POLYTECHNIC. .
- - 0 -------
/75........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
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PRICE, VOLUME MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN AUGUST
******
THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS GREW BY 3 PER CENT AND 26 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN THE FIRST EIGHT MONTHS OF 1989 COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1988, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
TAKING THEM TOGETHER, THERE WAS AN OVERALL INCREASE OF 16 PER CENT IN THE VOLUME OF TOTAL EXPORTS. IMPORTS ALSO INCREASED BY 16 PER CENT IN VOLUME TERMS.
THE GROWTH IN THF VOLUME OF TRADE IS DERIVED FROM THE GROWTH IN TRADE VALUES, HAVING DISCOUNTED THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES.
AS REGARDS PRICE CHANGES OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS ROSE BY 3 PER CENT AND 6 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY, WHILE THOSE OF IMPORTS ROSE BY 1 PER CENT. AS A RESULT, THE TERMS OF TRADE INDEX (EXPRESSED AS A RATIO OF TOTAL EXPORT PRICE INDEX TO IMPORT PRICE INDEX) ROSE BY ) 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 AVAILABLE.
COMPARING THE MONTH OF AUGUST 1989 WITH AUGUST 1988, THERE WAS NO CHANGE IN THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS, WHILE THAT OF RE-EXPORTS INCREASED BY 17 PER CENT. HENCE, TAKING DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS TOGETHER, TOTAL EXPORTS GREW BY 9 PER CENT IN VOLUME TERMS. IMPORT VOLUME ALSO INCREASED BY 5 PER CENT.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF DOMESTIC-EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS ROSE BY 3 PER CENT AND 7 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. PRICES OF IMPORTS ROSE BY 4 PER CENT.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF DOMESTIC-EXPORTS BY COMMODITY GROUP FOR AUGUST 1989 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988 ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 1.
AS CAN BE SEEN FROM TABLE 1, THE DOMESTIC EXPORT VOLUME OF SOME COMMODITY GROUPS DECREASED IN AUGUST 1989 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988.
THESE INCLUDED RADIOS OF ALL KINDS (-38 PER CENT); METAL MANUFACTURES (-27 PER CENT); DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES (-22 PER CENT); FOOTWEAR (-22 PER CENT); TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR ARTICLES (-18 PER CENT) AND TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD (-10 PER CENT).
NEVERTHELESS, INCREASES IN DOMESTIC EXPORT VOLUME WERE RECORDED IN TEXTILE FABRICS (+22 PER CENT): ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS (+15 PER CENT); METAL ORES AND SCRAP (+13 I'ER CENT); CLOTHING (+7 PER CENT); TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED ARTICLES (+5 PER CENT) AND WATCHES AND CLOCKS (+4 PER CENT).
/PRICES OF .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
76 -
PRICES OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF MOST COMMODITY GROUPS INCREASED IN AUGUST 1989 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988.
THESE INCLUDED METAL MANUFACTURES (+14 PER CENT); TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR ARTICLES (+10 PER CENT); TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED ARTICLES (+9 PER CENT); DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES (+4 PER CENT); TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD (+4 PER CENT); CLOTHING (+3 PER CENT); TEXTILE FABRICS(+2 PER CENT) AND RADIOS OF ALL KINDS (+2 PER CENT).
HOWEVER, DECREASES IN DOMESTIC EXPORT PRICES WERE RECORDED IN ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS (-2 PER CENT); METAL ORES AND SCRAP (-2 PER CENT) AND WATCHES AND CLOCKS (-2 PER CENT). DOMESTIC EXPORT PRICES OF FOOTWEAR REMAINED UNCHANGED.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF IMPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY FOR AUGUST 1989 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988 ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 2.
AS PRESENTED IN TABLE 2, IMPORTS OF FOODSTUFFS DECREASED BY 3 PER CENT IN VOLUME TERMS IN AUGUST 1989 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988. DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE IMPORT VOLUME OF TEA AND COFFEE; WHEAT AND FLOUR; FISH AND FISH PREPARATIONS AND ANIMALS OF THE BOVINE SPECIES.
INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE IMPORT VOLUME OF SOYA BEAN OIL, PEANUT OIL AND LARD; CEREALS AND CEREAL PREPARATIONS OTHER THAN RICE, WHEAT AND FLOUR; FRUIT AND SUGAR.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE IMPORT VOLUME OF CONSUMER GOODS INCREASED BY 15 PER CENT. THE COMMODITY ITEMS WITH MORE SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES INCLUDED CLOTHING; ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND FOOTWEAR. DECREASES IN IMPORT VOLUME WERE NOTED FOR PASSENGER MOTOR CARS AND TOBACCO MANUFACTURES.
THE IMPORT VOLUME OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES REMAINED UNCHANGED IN AUGUST 1989 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988. SOME COMMODITY ITEMS RECORDED INCREASES IN IMPORT VOLUME. NOTABLY CLAY AND REFRACTORY CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS, BUILDING MATERIALS, ETC., EXCEPT GLASS; YARN OF MAN-MADE FIBRES; AND RAW COTTON.
DECREASES IN IMPORT VOLUME WERE NOTED FOR SILK FABRICS; PLASTIC MOULDING MATERIALS; WOOD, LUMBER AND CORK; AND PAPER AND PAPERBOARD.
IMPORTS OF FUELS INCREASED BY 7 PER CENT IN VOLUME TERMS IN AUGUST 1989 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988.
IN THE CAPITAL GOODS CATEGORY. THE IMPORT VOLUME DECREASED BY 1 PER CENT IN AUGUST 1989 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988. THERE WERE DECREASES IN THE IMPORT VOLUME OF TEXTILE MACHINERY: TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY. INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE IMPORT VOLUME OF OFFICE MACHINES AND ELECTRICAL MACHINERY.
/COMPARING THE .....
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 77
COMPARING THE IMPORT PRICES IN AUGUST 1989 WITH THOSE IN AUGUST 1988. ALL END-USE CATEGORIES SHOWED SOME INCREASE: FUELS (+12 PER CENT); CONSUMER GOODS (+6 PER CENT); CAPITAL GOODS (+4 PER CENT); FOODSTUFFS (+3 PER CENT): AND RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES (+2 PER CENT).
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE. UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY FOR AUGUST 1989 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988 ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 3.
AS DEPICTED IN TABLE 3. THE RE-EXPORT VOLUME OF FUELS INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY BY 228 PER CENT. WHILE THOSE OF CONSUMER GOODS AND CAPITAL GOODS ALSO INCREASED, BY 36 PER CENT AND 11 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
THERE WAS NO CHANGE IN THE VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS OF FOODSTUFFS.. WHILE THE RE-EXPORT VOLUME OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES DECREASED BY 2 PER CENT.
PRICES OF RE-EXPORTS OF ALL END-USE CATEGORIES INCREASED IN AUGUST 1989 COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1988: FUELS (+14 PER CENT): RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES (+7 PER CENT); CONSUMER GOODS (+6 PER CENT): CAPITAL GOODS (+6 PER CENT) AN1 FOODSTUFFS (+5 PER CENT).
FURTHER DETAILS ARE CONTAINED IN THE AUGUST 1989 ISSUE OF THE “HONG KONG TRADE INDEX NUMBERS WHICH WILL BE ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE. GPO BUILDING. CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AROUND NOVEMBER 11 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 (TEL. 5-8428802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE INDEXES TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL. 5-8234918).
TABLE 1: CHANGES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY PRINCIPAL COMMODITY GROUP
COMMODITY GROUP
COMPARING AUGUST 1989
WITH AUGUST 1988
UNIT
VALUE
VOLUME
COMPARING JAN-AUG 1989
WITH JAN-AUG 1988
UNIT
VALUE VALUE VOLUME
% % %
CLOTHING 10 3 7 8 0 6
TEXTILE FABRICS 25 •> L. 22 10 * 10
TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD -7 4 -10 12 •> •u 10
/TEXTILE MADE-UPS ......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 78 -
TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED
ARTICLES RADIOS OF ALL 14 9 5 -8 7 -14
KINDS ELECTRONIC -37 2 -38 -42 1 -43
COMPONENTS 13 -2 15 20 -5 27
FOOTWEAR -22 * -22 -16 1 -17
METAL MANUFACTURES METAL ORES AND -17 14 -27 4 12 -7
SCRAP 10 -2 13 22 2 20
WATCHES AND CLOCKS TRAVEL GOODS. HANDBAGS AND 2 -2 4 3*3
SIMILAR ARTICLES DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL -10 10 -18 -12 5 • -15
APPLIANCES -19 4 -22 -23 6 -27
ALL COMMODITIES 33* 633 * INSIGNIFICANT, I.E. LESS THAN 0.5 PER CENT
TABLE 2: CHANGES IN IMPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY
END-USE CATEGORY COMPARING AUGUST 1989 COMPARING JAN-AUG 1989 WITH AUGUST 1988 WITH JAN-AUG 1988 UNIT UNIT
VALUE VALUE % % VOLUME VALUE VALUE VOLUME % % % %
FOODSTUFFS t 3 -3 10 3 6
CONSUMER GOODS RAW MATERIALS AND 22 6 15 30 5 24
SEMI-MANUFACTURES 2 2 * 15 3 11
FUELS 20 12 7 39 7 29
/CAPITAL GOODS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 79 -
CAPITAL GOODS 3 4 -1 19 3 15
ALL COMMODITIES 9 4 5 20 4 16
» INSIGNIFICANT, I.E. LESS THAN 0.5 PER CENT
TABLE 3: CHANGES IN RE-EXPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY
END-USE CATEGORY COMPARING AUGUST 1989 WITH AUGUST 1988 COMPARING JAN-AUG 1989 WITH JAN-AUG 1988
VALUE % UNIT VALUE % VOLUME % VALUE % UNIT VALUE % VOLUME %
FOODSTUFFS 6 5 * 7 6 *
CONSUMER GOODS 44 6 36 47 5 40
RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES 4 7 -2 21 8 13
FUELS 272 14 228 142 3 135
CAPITAL GOODS 18 6 11 40 6 31
ALL COMMODITIES 25 7 17 35 6 26
* INSIGNIFICANT, I.E. LESS THAN 0.5 PER CENT
-----0-----
HK WILL EMERGE AS MAJOR PLAYER: STI t * t ♦ ♦
ONE OF THE
EMERGE AS A
FOR TRADE AND
HONG KONG WILL NOT ONLY MAINTAIN ITS STATUS AS LEADING INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CENTRES BUT WILL ALSO MAJOR PLAYER IN THE ASIA—PACIFIC REGION. THE SECRETARY INDUSTRY. MR JOHN CHAN. SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR CHAN WAS SPEAKING AT A COCKTAIL RECEPTION OF (HOLDINGS) LTD, WHICH HAD RECENTLY FORMED A PARTNERSHIP COMPANY OF THE SAISON GROUP OF JAPAN.
THE WING WITH SEIYU,
ON A
THE RECEPTION WAS HELD TO INTRODUCE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SAISON GROUP. MR SEIJI TSUTSUMI.
/MR CHAN.........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 80 -
MR CHAN SAID THE NEWLY FORMED PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN SEIYU AND WING ON WAS A VERY IMPORTANT ONE BECAUSE IT WAS THE FIRST TEAM-UP OF JAPANESE AND HONG KONG DEPARTMENT STORES.
“BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY. THE ENTRY OF THE SAISON GROUP INTO HONG KONG IS YET ANOTHER PIECE OF CONCRETE EVIDENCE OF JAPAN’S STRONG CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG.” HE SAID.
MR CHAN POINTED OUT THAT HONG KONG AND JAPAN HAD BEEN HAVING A CLOSE TRADING RELATIONSHIP FOR A LONG TIME AND JAPAN WAS NOW HONG KONG’S THIRD TRADING PARTNERS AFTER CHINA AND THE USA.
"OUR TRADING RELATIONSHIP HAS KEPT ON GROWING: IN 1988. OUR IMPORTS FROM AND EXPORTS TO JAPAN ROSE BY 29.3 PER CENT AND 20.5 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.” HE SAID.
MR CHAN NOTED THAT JAPANESE INVESTMENTS IN HONG KONG HAD ALSO INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY. NOT ONLY IN TERMS OF THEIR SHARE IN TOTAL FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG BUT ALSO IN TERMS OF THEIR DIVERSITY.
"IN 1988. 27 PER CENT OF TOTAL FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN OUR MANUFACTURING SECTOR WAS FROM JAPAN. MAKING IT SECOND ONLY TO THE U.S. WHOSE SHARE WAS 34 PER CENT.
"IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR. SOME OF THE MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS. SUCH AS THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING AND TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL. HAVE BEEN UNDERTAKEN BY CONSORTIA WITH JAPANESE INTERESTS,” HE SAID.
MR CHAN ALSO STRESSED THAT HONG KONG WAS A STAUNCH SUPPORTER AND PRACTITIONER OF FREE TRADE AND FREE ENTERPRISE.
"WE WELCOME FOREIGN INVESTMENTS. BE THEY IN THE INDUSTRIAL. FINANCIAL OR OTHER SECTORS OF THE ECONOMY." HE ADDED.
------0 ------
GOOD PROSPECTS FOR PARTNERSHIP OF JAPANESE INVESTMENT AND HK INDUSTRIES ******
THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR ANDREW LEUNG KIN-PONG, IS CONFIDENT THAT THE PARTNERSHIP OF JAPANESE INVESTMENT AND HONG KONG INDUSTRIES WILL WORK EVEN BETTER AS HONG KONG MARCHES ON.
ACCORDING TO MR LEUNG, IN THE FISCAL YEAR 1988 ALONE, HONG KONG GAINED THE LARGEST SHARE OF JAPANESE INVESTMENT IN ASIA, ALMOST DOUBLE THAT FOR THE COUNTRY IN THE SECOND POSITION.
SPEAKING AT AN INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM IN HUA HIN, THAILAND, MR LEUNG SAID PROXIMITY AND OTHER TRADITIONAL LINKS WERE SOME OF THE MORE OBVIOUS REASONS FOR JAPAN’S SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG.
/’’HOWEVER, DESPITE..........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 81 -
"HOWEVER. DESPITE HONG KONG’S UNCERTAINTIES. JAPANESE INVESTORS HAVE ALSO BEEN ATTRACTED BY ITS FREE AND DYNAMIC ECONOMY AND ITS MANY EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES.
"THE PARTNERSHIP OF JAPANESE INVESTMENT AND HONG KONG INDUSTRIES IS A CONCRETE EXAMPLE." HE SAID.
QUOTING FINDINGS OF THE LATEST SURVEYS OF OVERSEAS INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES CONDUCTED BY THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT. MR LEUNG SAID JAPANESE MANUFACTURERS CHANNELLED 36.5 PER CENT MORE FUNDS IN 1988 TO ACQUISITIONS OF FIXED ASSETS IN HONG KONG THAN IN 1987.
"BY THE END OF 1988. JAPAN’S CUMULATIVE MANUFACTURING INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG STOOD AT US$89.". MILLION, ACCOUNTING FOR ABOUT 27 PER. CENT OF THE OVERALL TOTAL. UP FROM 21 PER CENT IN 1985.
"JAPAN IS NOW THE SECOND KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES, WHICH ACCOUNTS FOR 34 PER CENT."
LARGEST OVERSEAS INVESTOR AFTER THE UNITED STATES OF MR LEUNG SAID.
IN HONG AMERICA.
HE NOTED THAT TWO SIGNIFICANT TRENDS HAD EVOLVED IN RECENT YEARS IN RESPECT OF JAPANESE MANUFACTURING INTERESTS IN HONG KONG.
ONE IS A DRAMATIC UPSURGE IN INVESTMENT IN THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY, REFLECTING JAPAN’S GROWING CONFIDENCE TN HONG KONG’S ABILITY TO MANUFACTURE TECHNOLOGY-INTENSIVE PRODUCTS OF HIGH QUALITY.
THE OTHER IS THE INCREASING NUMBER OF JAPANESE FACTORIES INVOLVED IN THE LINKAGE INDUSTRIES.
"JAPANESE INVESTMENT IN THE LINKAGE INDUSTRIES BRINGS THE REQUIRED EXPERTISE TO HELP IMPROVE THEIR QUALITY AND OUTPUT. THEREBY ENHANCING THE COMPETITIVENESS OF THESE INDUSTRIES AND OTHERS SERVICED BY THEM." MR LEUNG SAID.
TURNING TO THE IMPACT OF RECENT EVENTS IN CHINA, MR LEUNG SAID HONG KONG'S MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS HAD EMERGED LARGELY UNSCATHED.
"WHILE SENTIMENTS HAVE NO DOUBT BECOME MORE CAUTIOUS, SOME SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT DECISIONS TO INVEST IN HONG KONG WERE ANNOUNCED AFTER THESE EVENTS.
"ACCORDING TO NOMURA RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL. THE OUTLOOK FOR THE HONG KONG ECONOMY IS STILL FAR BETTER THAN IT WAS IN THE 1982-84 PERIOD BEFORE THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT DECLARATION WAS SIGNED." HE SAID.
ON MAJOR GOVERNMENT PLANS TO TAKE HONG KONG THROUGH 1997 INTO THE 21 ST CENTURY. MR LEUNG STRESSED THAT THESE PLANS WERE SET AGAINST TWO CRUCIAL ROLES OF HONG KONG THAT HAD EMERGED AS A RESULT OF ITS INCREASING ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE IN THE WORLD.
ONE WAS AS A REGIONAL CENTRE FOR TRADE, FINANCE AND COMMUNICATIONS WHILE THE OTHER AS A GATEWAY TO CHINA. HE SAID.
/"OVER THE .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
82
"OVER THE PAST TWO YEARS. HONG KONG’S TRADE WITH JAPAN. TAIWAN. SOUTH KOREA. SINGAPORE AND THAILAND HAS GROWN AT AN ANNUAL RATE OE 35.5 PER CENT IN MONEY TERMS. SIXTY PER CENT OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL TRADE IS NOW WITH ASIA AND AUSTRALASIA."
IN ADDITION, HE SAID. MANY MULTINATIONALS HAD CHOSEN HONG KONG AS THEIR REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS.
AS FOR CHINA. IT HAD BECOME HONG KONG’S PRINCIPAL TRADING PARTNER. MORE RECENTLY, HONG KONG HAD BEEN ACTING AS AN IMPORTANT CHANNEL FOR CHINA’S IMPORTS. MR LEUNG SAID.
"BESIDES. MANY FOREIGN COMPANIES HAVE BEEN USING HONG KONG AS A BASE FOR MANUFACTURING INVESTMENTS IN CHINA.
"SUCH INVESTMENTS WILL CONTINUE TO DEPEND ON HONG KONG AS A REGIONAL MANUFACTURING AND SUPPORT CENTRE." HE SAID.
MR LEUNG ALSO TOLD PARTICIPANTS THAT HONG KONG’S TECHNOLOGICAL INFRASTRUCTURE WAS BEING REINFORCED TO ASSIST INDUSTRIALISTS IN MOVING TOWARDS HIGHER-VALUE-ADDED AND MORE KNOWLEDGE-BASED AND CAPITAL-INTENSIVE PROCESSES.
APART FROM THE NEW TECHNOLOGY CENTRE WHICH WOULD BE ESTABLISHED TO PROVIDE FACILITIES FOR NEW AND SMALL HIGH-TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES TO GROW THROUGH PRODUCT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT. MR LEUNG WAS PROUD TO MENTION THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CENTRE IN THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY.
"WITH A GRANT OF USS 13 MILLION. THE INSTITUTE WILL CARRY OUT RESEARCH INTO TELECOMMUNICATIONS. CIRCUITS AND SYSTEMS, ELECTRONIC DEVICES, ARTIFIIAL INTELLIGENCE. SATELLITE AND SPACE COMMUNICATIONS." HE SAID.
-----0-----
HONG KONG TO ATTEND PECC MEETING
*****
LEAVE FOR NEW
OF THE PACIFIC AUCKLAND FROM
A FOUR-MEMBER DELEGATION FROM HONG KONG WILL ZEALAND LATER THIS WEEK FOR THE SEVENTH MEETING ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION CONFERENCE (PECC) TO BE HELD IN
NOVEMBER 12 TO 15.
SET UP IN 1980. PECC IS A NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATION WHICH SEEKS TO DEVELOP CLOSER CO-OPERATION ON TRADE AND ECONOMIC POLICY ISSUES IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION.
AT PRESENT, IT CONSISTS OF 15 MEMBER COUNTRIES. HONG KONG WILL ATTEND AS AN OBSERVER.
/"OUR INTEREST
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
83
"OUR INTEREST IN PECC LIES MAINLY IN THE AREA OF TRADE POLICY." THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY AND LEADER OF THE HONG KONG DELEGATION. MR MICHAEL CARTLAND. SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"AS A SIGNIFICANT TRADING ENTITY ACCOUNTING FOR 2.2 PER CENT OF TOTAL WORLD MERCHANDISE TRADE. AND GIVEN OUR STRATEGIC POSITION IN THE RAPIDLY DEVELOPING ASIA-PACIFIC REGION. HONG KONG SHOULD DEFINITELY HAVE A ROLE TO PLAY IN THIS REGIONAL ECONOMIC FORUM." MR CARTLAND ADDED.
MR CARTLAND NOTED THAT HONG KONG’S TRADING LINKS WITH ECONOMIES IN THE REGION HAVE BEEN STEADILY EXPANDING.
"INTRA-REGIONAL TRADE AS A PROPORTION OF OUR TOTAL EXTERNAL TRADE HAS GROWN FROM 46 PER CENT A DECADE AGO TO 60 PER CENT TODAY." HE SAID.
ATTENDANCE AS AN OBSERVER AT A MAJOR PECC MEETING AND ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN THE WORK OF PECC AND ITS VARIOUS TASK FORCES AND STUDY GROUPS ARE PREREQUISITES FOR FULL MEMBERSHIP.
INDIVIDUAL GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS AND ACADEMICS FROM HONG KONG HAVE ATTENDED MEETINGS OF THE PECC IN THE PAST. HOWEVER, THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THAT HONG KONG HAS BEEN INVITED TO SEND A DELEGATION WITH OBSERVER STATUS.
PARTICIPATION IN PECC IS TRIPARTITE: DELEGATIONS CONSIST OF GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS IN A PERSONAL CAPACITY. BUSINESS LEADERS AND ACADEMICS/PROFESSIONALS.
OTHER MEMBERS OF THE HONG KONG DELEGATION ARE MR MATTHEW CHEUNG KIN-CHUNG. ASSISTANT DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE: MRS ELEANOR LING. DIRECTOR OF JARDINE PACIFIC LTD AND MEMBER OF THE TRADE ADVISORY BOARD: AND DR LIU PAK-WAI. SENIOR. LECTURER IN ECONOMICS. THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG.
-----0--------
MID-YEAR EXPENDITURE AND REVENUE UPDATED » * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT HAS UPDATED ITS MID-YEAR EXPENDITURE AND REVENUE FOR THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR. BASED ON ACTUAL FIGURES TO THE END OF SEPTEMBER, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"IT IS NOW EXPECTED THAT THERE WILL BE A SOMEWHAT LOWER OVERALL SURPLUS OF ABOUT $10.2 BILLION COMPARED WITH THE ESTIMATE OF $11.5 BILLION," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"EXPENDITURE IS NOW EXPECTED TO BE HIGHER THAN ESTIMATED LARGELY BECAUSE OF HIGHER CONSTRUCTION COSTS OF CAPITAL WORKS AND ADDITIONAL EXPENDITURE ON THE ACQUISITION OF LAND.
/"REVENUE FROM ......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 84 -
"REVENUE FROM TAXES AND INTERNAL REVENUE IS ALSO EXPECTED TO EXCEED THE ESTIMATE AS THE ECONOMY CONTINUES TO PERFORM WELL," HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THE POSITION COULD WELL CHANGE BEFORE THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY DELIVERS HIS BUDGET SPEECH. PARTICULARLY AS THE LATTER HALF OF THE YEAR SEES THE COLLECTION OF MOST OF THE REVENUE FROM TAXES AND THIS SOURCE IS SUSCEPTIBLE TO CHANGES IN THE ECONOMIC CLIMATE.
- - - - 0 ----------
GOVT OFFICIALS MEET IVORY WORKERS REPRESENTATIVES » » * » »
GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS TODAY (WEDNESDAY) MET REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE HONG KONG IVORY MANUFACTURING WORKERS GENERAL UNION TO DISCUSS WAYS TO HELP WORKERS AFFECTED BY THE BAN ON THE IVORY TRADE IN FINDING NEW EMPLOYMENT.
ATTENDING THE MEETING WERE REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT. LABOUR DEPARTMENT. AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND INDUSTRIAL TRAINING DEPARTMENT.
UNION REPRESENTATIVES WERE TOLD AT THE MEETING THAT WORKERS WHO WISH TO ACQUIRE NEW SKILLS IN OTHER TRADES CAN RECEIVE FREE AND FULL-TIME VOCATIONAL TRAINING FROM THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL'S TRAINING CENTRES. THEY WILL BE GIVEN A SPECIAL ALLOWANCE DURING THE TRAINING PERIOD.
THE COUNCIL IS CURRENTLY OPERATING A NUMBER OF SHORT-TERM COURSES ON ELECTRONICS, TEXTILES. PRINTING. PLASTICS AND SEAMANSHIP.
ON COMPLETION OF THEIR TRAINING, COURSE MEMBERS WILL BE RECOMMENDED TO PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYERS FOR EMPLOYMENT WHERE SUITABLE VACANCIES ARE AVAILABLE.
ALSO, THE LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (LES) OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS STARTED A SPECIAL REGISTER TO ASSIST IVORY WORKERS SEEKING NEW EMPLOYMENT. JOB-SEEKERS FROM THE TRADE MAY APPROACH ANY OF ITS 16 BRANCH OFFICES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY FOR REGISTRATION.
ENQUIRIES ON EMPLOYMENT OR PLACEMENT OF JOB VACANCIES CAN BE MADE ON THE LES HOTLINE AT 3-7355527.
MEANWHILE. WORKERS MAY SEEK ADVICE FROM THE LABOUR RELATIONS SERVICE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ON THEIR ENTITLED BENEFITS UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE.
-----0------
/85........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8, 1989
85
DISTRICT FESTIVAL TABLE TENNIS EXHIBITION MATCH
*****
RESIDENTS OF WONG TAI SIN WILL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO WATCH LEADING TABLE TENNIS PLAYERS FROM GUANGDONG AND HONG KONG IN ACTION ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12).
AN EXHIBITION MATCH BETWEEN THE GUANGDONG AND HONG KONG TEAMS. ORGANISED AS PART OF THE CURRENT DISTRICT FESTIVAL, WILL BE HELD AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL IN SAN PO KONG. IT WILL BEGIN AT 7 PM.
THE GUANGDONG TEAM COMPRISES OUTSTANDING YOUNG PLAYERS WHO HAVE WON PRIZES IN MANY EVENTS ON THE MAINLAND. WHILE THE HONG KONG TEAM IS FORMED BY TOP LOCAL PLAYERS YUEN PING-KIT, CHAN LEUNG. CHAI PO-WAH AND CHAN DAN-LUI.
BOTH CHINA AND HONG KONG RANK HIGH IN THE INTERNATIONAL TABLE TENNIS CIRCLE, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE NOTED.
FREE TICKETS FOR THE MATCH ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFIOE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 3-222261.
DB TO DISCUSS LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PROPOSALS
**♦!*♦
THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION’S URBAN RENEWAL PROPOSALS FOR THE DISTRICT AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE CORPORATION WILL EXPLAIN THE ARGYLE STREET/SHANGHAI STREET SCHEME AND IMPROVEMENTS TO SAI YEUNG CHOI STREET AND SOY STREET WITH THE AID OF A MODEL.
IN VIEW OF TWO SUSPECTED ARSON CASES OCCURRING AT THE SAME NIGHTCLUB IN MONG KOK IN THE LAST TWO MONTHS. TWO MEMBERS. MR YIP KAM-CHIU AND MR SHAM TAK-ON. WILL ASK WHAT ACTIONS THE POLICE HAVE TAKEN TO PREVENT SIMILAR CASES FROM OCCURRING IN FUTURE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD MEETING. WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM. FIRST FLOOR. 157 PRINCE EDWARD ROAD. KOWLOON.
/86
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
- 86 -
DB STUDIES PROCESSING OF SMALL HOUSE APPLICATIONS ♦ ♦ * * * *
THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS WILL RECOMMEND AT A MEETING ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 10) THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD SIMPLIFY PROCEDURES IN PROCESSING SMALL HOUSE APPLICATIONS AND IMPOSE A TIME LIMIT ON EACH STEP.
MEMBERS WILL PUT FORWARD A PROPOSAL FOR SETTING UP AN APPEAL COMMITTEE TO DEAL WITH APPEALS BY APPLICANTS WHO FAIL IN THEIR SMALL HOUSE APPLICATIONS.
THEY WILL ALSO CONSIDER TWO APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS FOR ORGANISING THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 1989 SAI KUNG DISTRICT FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY AND FOR THE ERECTION OF LETTER BOXES FOR 70 FAMILIES AT PIK SHUI SUN TSUEN IN HANG HAU.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD MEETING. WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 10) IN THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD CONFERENCE ROOM, SECOND FLOOR, SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 34 CHAN MAN STREET, SAI KUNG TOWN.
-----0-----
DB COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER FUND APPLICATIONS ♦ * ♦ t t ♦
THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S RECREATION AND CULTURE COMMITTEE WILL CONSIDER A NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS FOR ORGANISING RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
MEMBERS WILL ALSO CONSIDER THE COMMITTEE’S FINANCIAL STATEMENT AND A REPORT FROM THE NORTH DISTRICT ARTS ADVANCEMENT ASSOCIATION.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE THE USAGE PATTERN OF MAJOR RECREATIONAL VENUES IN THE DISTRICT: THE REGIONAL COUNCIL’S ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMME FOR THE DISTRICT IN NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER; AND THE ATTENDANCE RATE AT CULTURAL PRESENTATIONS IN THE NORTH DISTRICT TOWN HALL.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S RECREATION AND CULTURE COMMITTEE TO BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM. JOCKEY CLUB ROAD. FANLING.
-----0-----
/87........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
87
TEMPORARY FERRY.SERVICE FOR TSING YI *****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT A TEMPORARY FERRY SERVICE BETWEEN TSING YI AND CENTRAL WILL BE INTRODUCED ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 10) TO PROVIDE AN ALTERNATIVE MODE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT FOR COMMUTERS DURING THE PARTIAL AND FULL CLOSURE OF THE TSING YI SOUTH BRIDGE FOR REPAIR WORKS.
THE FERRY SERVICE WILL CONTINUE UNTIL TRAFFIC HAS RESUMED NORMAL UPON THE COMPLETION OF THE BRIDGE REPAIR WORKS EARLY NEXT YEAR.
DOUBLE-DECK FERRIES ON THE EXISTING SERVICE BETWEEN TSUEN WAN AND CENTRAL WILL BE DIVERTED TO CALL AT TSING YI PUBLIC PIER EN ROUTE DURING THE MORNING AND EVENING PEAK HOURS FROM MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS.
THE SCHEDULE OF THE TSING YI FERRY SERVICE IS AS FOLLOWS:
* MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS. MORNING PEAK HOURS DEPARTURE TIMES: FROM TSUEN WAN : 7.50 AM. 8.15 AM. 9.25 AM FROM TSING YI : 8 AM. 8.25 AM, 9.35 AM
» MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS. EVENING PEAK HOURS DEPARTURE TIMES: FROM CENTRAL : 5.35 PM, 6.20 PM. 7 PM
(THIS SERVICE WILL NOT PICK UP PASSENGERS FROM TSING YI TO TSUEN WAN).
THE SERVICE WILL NOT OPERATE ON SATURDAY AFTERNOONS. SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
THE FARE IS $3 FOR ADULTS AND $1.80 FOR CHILDREN UNDER 12 YEARS OF AGE PER SINGLE JOURNEY.
AT THE SAME TIME. KMB ROUTE NO.43B AND GMB ROUTE NO.88A WILL PROVIDE FEEDER SERVICE TO THE TSING YI PUBLIC PIER DURING THE SERVICE HOURS OF THE FERRY.
- - 0 -
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON HK ISLAND *****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 10). NEW TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN CENTRAL. WAN CHAI AND NORTH POINT.
THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL FROM A POINT ABOUT 10 METRES WEST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH POTTINGER STREET TO A POINT ABOUT 30 METRES WEST OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY.
/AT THE
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1989
AT THE SAME TIME, THE WESTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF TAI WONG STREET EAST IN WAN CHAI BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH QUEEN’S ROAD EAST TO A POINT ABOUT 55 METRES TO THE NORTH WILL ALSO BE MADE A 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY FOR ABOUT FOUR WEEKS TO FACILITATE CABLE LAYING WORKS.
IN NORTH POINT. KING'S ROAD WESTBOUND BETWEEN COMFORT TERRACE AND A POINT ABOUT 15 METRES EAST OF OIL STREET WILL BECOME AN URBAN CLEARWAY ROUND-THE-CLOCK FOR ABOUT EIGHT MONTHS TO FACILITATE ROAD RECONSTRUCTION WORKS.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREAS.
- - 0 -
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN KOWLOON CITY ******
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 10), THE FLYOVER LEADING FROM PRINCE EDWARD ROAD EAST EASTBOUND TO DEPARTURES CIRCUIT IN KOWLOON CITY WILL BE DESIGNATED A PUBLIC LIGHT BUS BAN ZONE.
ALL PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES. EXCEPT THOSE WITH PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT. WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM ENTERING THE PROHIBITED ZONE 24 HOURS DAILY.
AT THE SAME TIME. ALL VEHICLES EXCEEDING 3.3 METRES IN HEIGHT WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM ENTERING THE FLYOVER 24 HOURS DAILY.
THE FLYOVER WILL ALSO BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY 24 HOURS DAILY.WITHIN THE RESTRICTED ZONE. ALL MOTOR VEHICLES. EXCEPT THOSE WITH PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT. WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM STOPPING FOR GOODS AND PASSENGERS.
IN ADDITION. THE FLYOVER LEADING FROM PRINCE EDWARD ROAD EAST EASTBOUND TO DEPARTURES CIRCUIT IN THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WILL BE OPENED TO TRAFFIC.
ALL CYCLISTS. PEDESTRIANS, LEARNER DRIVERS AND GOODS VEHICLES WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM ENTERING THE FLYOVER.
- - 0 -
/89
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 8. 1989
89
TEMPORARY URBAN CLEARWAY IN EASTERN STREET
♦ ♦ * * *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDA? (NOVEMBER 10). THE WESTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF EASTERN STREET IN SAI YING PUN BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST AND HOUSE NUMBER 1A WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY ROUND-THE-CLOCK.
THIS MEASURE WILL LAST FOR ABOUT SIX WEEKS TO FACILITATE ROAD AND DRAINAGE WORKS.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.
-----0------
LONG VEHICLE BAN IN POTTINGER STREET t * t » *
AM ON FRIDAY
WILL NOT BE CONNAUGHT ROAD
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAI I'ROM 10 (NOVEMBER 10). VEHICLES EXCEEDING’ SEVEN METRES LONG ALLOWED TO ENTER POTTINGER STREET IN CENTRAL BETWEEN CENTRAL AND DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL.
THIS MEASURE WILL BE IN FORCE FOR ABOUT THREE MONTHS TO FACILITATE ROADWORKS.
-------o---------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER ?, 19-^9
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
A ROYAL OPINING FOR CONVENTION CENTRE......................... 1 PRINCE PAYS TRIBUTE TO HONG KONG'S RESOURCEFULNESS .......... 3 PRINCESS OF WALES VISITS THE ELDERLY ........................ 5 REGIMENTAL VISIT BY ROYAL COLONEL-IN-CHIEF .................. 7 PRINCESS OF WALES SEES POLICE IN ACTION ..................... 8 THEN MUN ON DISPLAY FOR ROYAL VISITORS ...................... 10 PRINCE OF WALES SEES THE OLD NEW TERRITORIES ................ 11 PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES ENTERTAIN ON BRITANNIA.......... 1? PRINCESS OF WALES BIDS FAREWELL TO HONG KONG ................ 1? ROYAL TOUR ENDS WITH WESTERN WALKABOUT....................... 1^ SPECIAL PUBLIC TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE ROYAL VISIT TO
WESTERN DISTRICT.............................................. 15 GLOBAL FREE TRADE FOUNDATION FOR FUTURE ECONOMY.............. 15 INCREASED SPENDING ON SOCIAL WELFARE......................... 17 GOVT DECIDES NO CHARGE FOR AMBULANCE SERVICES ............... 18 DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS REZONING OF LAND USE................. 19 MISFIRED FIREWORKS WARNING .................................. 19 KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL TO START ON SATURDAY ............. 20 SOUTHERN DISTRICT CARNIVAL ON SUNDAY ........................ 20 CLEANLINESS DRAWING COMPETITION IN SHAM SHUI PO ............. 21 READING AWARD SCHEME FOR SECONDARY STUDENTS ................. 22 ROVING EXHIBITION ON EMPLOYMENT LAWS ........................ 2? ILLEGAL STRUCTURE IN SHEUNG SHUI TO BE CLOSED................ 2J URBAN CLEARWAYS IN TSING YI ................................. 24 PLB BAN ZONE IN KWAI CHUNG .................................. 24
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
1
A ROYAL OPENING FOR CONVENTION CENTRE
******
THE PRINCE OF WALES COMPLETED A ROYAL CONNECTION WITH THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE WHEN HE OFFICIALLY OPENED THE CENTRE IN WAN CHAI TODAY (THURSDAY).
JUST OVER THREE YEARS AGO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN LAID THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE CENTRE DURING HER VISIT TO HONG KONG IN OCTOBER 1986.
THE FIRST STEEL BEAM OF THE PROJECT WAS LAID AT THE SAME TIME AND THE $2.5 BILLION CENTRE OPENED ON SCHEDULE, JUST OVER TWO YEARS LATER, ON NOVEMBER 25, 1988,
SINCE THEN IT HAS MADE HONG KONG A FOCAL POINT FOR LARGER INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITIONS AND CONVENTIONS.
ON THE THIRD DAY OF THE ROYAL VISIT, THE PRINCESS OF WALES WORE A SILK DRESS WITH STRAIGHT ROYAL BLUE SKIRT AND WHITE BODICE WITH SHORT EGDE TO EDGE WHITE JACKET AND ROYAL BLUE COLLAR AND CUFFS AND ROYAL BLUE SHOES, DESIGNED BY CATHERINE WALKER OF CHELSEA DESIGN.
THE PRINCE OF WALES ACCOMPANIED BY THE PRINCESS, ARRIVED BY CAR AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE CENTRE WHERE HE WAS RECEIVED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, DAME LYDIA DUNN, WHO PRESENTED THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE HKTDC, MR JACK SO.
THE CHAIRMAN AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PRESENTED HKTDC MEMBERS MR WONG PO-YAN, MR HARI N. HARILELA, MR JACK TANG, MR DENNIS TING AND DR PHILIP Y. WONG.
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES TRAVELLED BY ESCALATOR TO THE CONVENTION HALL WHERE DAME LYDIA AND MR SO PRESENTED MR CHENG YU-TUNG, WHOSE COMPANY, NEW WORLD DEVELOPMENT CO LTD, DEVELOPED THE CENTRE AND WHOSE FULLY-OWNED SUBSIDIARY - THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE (MANAGEMENT) LTD - RUN IT.
ALSO PRESENTED WERE THE PROJECT CONSULTANT AND CHAIRMAN OF C-FIN PROJECTS LTD, MR NORMAN THOMPSON; THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF NEW WORLD DEVELOPMENT LTD, MR HENRY CHENG AND THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE CENTRE, MR GEORGE BLANEY.
AS THE ROYAL PARTY ENTERED THE CONVENTION HALL THE BAND OF THE 1ST BATTALION, THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S ROYAL REGIMENT (BERKSHIRE AND WILTSHIRE) PLAYED THE NATIONAL ANTHEM.
DAME LYDIA MADE A BRIEF SPEECH OF WELCOME AND INVITED THE PRINCE OF WALES TO ADDRESS THE AUDIENCE.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THEN UNVEILED A COMMEMORATIVE SCULPTURE ENTITLED "CONVENTION" BY AWARD-WINNING, HONG KONG-BORN SCULPTOR ARIES LEE, WHO IS NOW BASED IN JAPAN.
/THE PRINCE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
2
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES PROCEEDED BY ESCALATOR TO THE UPPER EXHIBITION HALL TO SEE THE SHOWCASE 89 EXHIBITION.
THE SECOND SUCH ANNUAL EXHIBITION TO BE STAGED BY THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, SHOWCASE 89 HAS ATTRACTED MORE THAN 200 EXHIBITORS, COMPARED WITH 125 LAST YEAR.
IT IS AIMED AT PROMOTING LOCAL CONSUMPTION OF HONG KONG-MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS AND TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL BUSINESSMEN TO TEST THE MARKET POTENTIAL OF THEIR PRODUCTS.
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WERE THE FIRST OF SOME 150,000 VISITORS OVER SIX DAYS WHO WILL BE ABLE TO SEE A COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF LOCAL PRODUCTS INCLUDING HIGH FASHION, FUR GARMENTS, JEWELLERY, WATCHES AND CLOCKS, TOYS, GIFTS AND ELECTRONICS.
■ LAST YEAR’S EXHIBITION ATTRACTED 120,000 VISITORS AND TURNOVER TOTALLED HKS17 MILLION.
AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE EXHIBITION DAME LYDIA AND MR SO PRESENTED THE DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR HKTDC, MR FRANCIS LO, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, MR MARSHALL CORAZZA, AND ASSISTANT DIRECTORS, OPERATIONS, MR DENNIS YAU AND MR ANDREW MA.
THE ROYAL PARTY PROCEEDED TO LEVEL FIVE TO VIEW THE BRITAIN IN HONG KONG EXHIBITION.
ORGANISED BY FAIRS & EXHIBITIONS LTD OF LONDON FOR THE GOVERNMENT’S DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY, THE THREE-DAY EXHIBITION IS DISPLAYING THE BEST OF BRITISH MANUFACTURING, SERVICES AND INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY.
AMONG THOSE TAKING PART ARE INCHCAPE PACIFIC GROUP, WHICH HAS TAKEN MASSIVE FLOOR SPACE TO DEMONSTRATE ITS SERVICES AND HIGH-TECH EQUIPMENT, BRITISH TELECOM, CABLE AND WIRELESS, BRITISH AIRWAYS, THE BRITISH TOURIST AUTHORITY, LEYLAND DAF, GLAXO, IC1, THE STANDARD CHARTERED BANK AND THE ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND.
ON THE ROYAL PARTY’S ARRIVAL THE DIRECTOR OF PROTOCOL, AIR COMMODORE VIVIAN WARRINGTON, PRESENTED THE BRITISH TRADE COMMISSIONER, MR PETER HEAP.
THE BRITISH TRADE COMMISSIONER PRESENTED HIS DEPUTY, MR C.C. HAYWARD; THE CHAIRMAN BRITISH OVERSEAS TRADE BOARD, SIR JAMES CLEMINSON, WHO IS VISITING HONG KONG ESPECIALLY FOR THE EXHIBITION; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND CHAIRMAN OF GLAXO (HONG KONG), MR NEIL MAIDMENT; THE MANAGING DIRCTOR OF FAIRS AND EXHIBITIONS, MISS VIRGINIA KERN AND HER EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, MISS WENDY SANDERS.
AFTER BEING ESCORTED AROUND THE EXHIBITION BY MR HAYWARD THE PRINCESS OF WALES LEFT THE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE FOR CHAK ON HOUSING ESTATE, KOWLOON, WHERE SHE VISITED THE HELPING HAND CARE HOME.
/THE PRINCE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
- 5 -
THE PRINCE OF WALES TOURED ANOTHER EVENT BEING HELD IN THE CENTRE, THE BRITISH EDUCATION EXHIBITION.
HONG KONG SENDS MORE STUDENTS TO BRITAIN THAN ANY COUNTRY tN THE WORLD ACCORDING TO BRITAIN'S DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND SCIENCE.
THE 1987/88 ACADEMIC YEAR SAW 7,180 HONG KONG STUDENTS IN BRITAIN, 70 PER CENT OF THEM TAKING UNDERGRADUATE COURSES. THIS FAR EXCEEDED THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS FROM OTHER COUNTRIES.
AFTER HONG KONG THE MAIN SOURCES OF OVERSEAS STUDENTS IN BRITAIN WERE: MALAYSIA (6,566), USA (5,114), SINGAPORE (1,977), NIGERIA (1,664) AND CHINA (1,074).
TO HELP HONG KONG STUDENTS WHO ARE CONSIDERING STUDYING tN BRITAIN THE BRITISH COUNCIL IS HOLDING THE BRITISH EDUCATION EXHIBITION 1989 ON NOVEMBER 9-12.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS ESCORTED ON HIS TOUR OF THE EXHIBITION BY THE BRITISH TRADE COMMISSIONER, MR HEAP, WHO PRESENTED THE DIRECTOR OF THE BRITISH COUNCIL, MR JULIAN DAVEY, WHO, IN TURN, PRESENTED THE BRITISH COUNCIL’S EDUCATION COUNSELLING OFFICER, MR GEORGE O’BRIEN AND THE DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION, MR DAVID LEE.
THE PRINCE OF WALES CUT A RIBBON TO OFFICIALLY OPEN THE EXHIBITION.
AFTER SPENDING NEARLY TWO HOURS IN THE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS LEFT BY CAR FOR HMS TAMAR.
-------o----------
PRINCE PAYS TRIBUTE TO * t
HONG KONG’S RESOURCEFULNESS * t ♦ ♦
THE PRINCE OF WALES PAID TRIBUTE TO THE VIGOUR AND RESOURCEFULNESS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WHICH HE SAID ARE THE REAL GUARANTEES FOR THE TERRITORY’S PROSPERITY IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS SPEAKING DURING THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE IN WAN CHAI TODAY (THURSDAY).
HE SAID: "ONE OF THE REMARKABLE FEATURES OF HONG KONG IS THE EXTRAORDINARY NUMBER OF MAJOR NEW BUILDINGS AND TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS WHICH YOU HAVE CONVENIENTLY UP YOUR SLEEVE IN CASE ANY PASSING ROYAL PERSONAGES MIGHT BE TEMPTED INTO OPENING THEM FOR YOU! DO YOU SAVE THEM UP, I WONDER, FOR A RAINY DAY (ENCOURAGED, PERHAPS, BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY?) OR IS IT JUST BECAUSE THEY FINISHED EARLY? WHATEVER THE CASE, IT CERTAINLY SEEMS AS ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB PAYS FOR MOST THINGS AROUND
ARE ALWAYS
THOUGH THE
HERE, BUT
PROBABLY NOT THIS ONE."
/HIS ROYAL
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS CONTINUED: "IT IS CERTAINLY A TRIBUTE TO THE VISION, INDUSTRY AND EFFICIENCY OF HONG KONG THAT THIS SPLENDID ’ FACILITY IS NOW COMPLETE AND OPERATIONAL, JUST THREE YEARS AFTER HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN LAID THE FOUNDATION STONE. NEEDLESS TO SAY, I WOULD HARDLY BE SO TACTLESS AS TO IMPART TO YOU MY VIEWS ON THE ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN OF THIS REMARKABLE BUILDING - AS ONE OR TWO PEOPLE SEEM TO BE ENCOURAGING ME TO DO! INSTEAD, I WOULD MERELY DIRECT YOUR ATTENTION, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, TO A RECENT CONTROVERSIAL PUBLICATION BY AN UNKNOWN AUTHOR CALLED WALES. YOU WILL FIND IT CAN BE OBTAINED AT A MOST REASONABLE PRICE FROM ANY REPUTABLE BOOKSHOP!
"THIS CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE, THE LARGEST IN ASIA, IS VERY MUCH A SYMBOL OF HONG KONG, AND OF ITS CONFIDENCE TO FACE THE CHALLENGES OF THE FUTURE. HONG KONG IS UNDOUBTEDLY ONE OF THE WORLD’S GREAT INDUSTRIAL CENTRES OF TRADE, COMMERCE AND FINANCE. IT IS VITAL TO ITS FUTURE PROSPERITY THAT IT RETAINS AND DEVELOPS THAT ROLE. THIS NEW CENTRE, WITH ITS TRADE FAIRS, EXHIBITIONS, CONFERENCES AND BUSINESS CONVENTIONS CAN ONLY ADD TO THE ATTRACTIONS THAT HONG KONG OFFERS TO THE WORLD AS A CENTRE OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS. IT MUST BE SIGNIFICANT THAT THE CENTRE WHICH WE ARE OPENING TODAY HAS ALREADY TAKEN BOOKINGS UP TO SEVEN YEARS AHEAD."
THE PRINCE OF WALES ADDED: "IT STRIKES ME THAT THIS NEW CENTRE IS VERY MUCH A SYMBOL OF HONG KONG’S UNIQUE ECONOMIC ACHIEVEMENTS AND HOPES FOR THE FUTURE. EVEN THOUGH I HAVE NOT BEEN BACK HERE SINCE MY LAST VISIT TEN YEARS AGO, IT IS IMPOSSIBLE NOT BE IMPRESSED BY THE VIGOUR AND RESOURCEFULNESS OF THE PEOPLE OF THIS CITY. IT IS THESE QUALITIES THAT ARE THE REAL GUARANTEES FOR HONG KONG’S PROSPERITY IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
"I OFFER MY CONGRATULATIONS T* ALL THOSE INVOLVED IN THE CONCEPTION AND COMPLETION OF THIS PROJECT AND AM DELIGHTED TO BE ABLE TO PERFORM THE MOST COMPLEX PART OF THE WHOLE OPERATION, FOR WHICH YOU REQUIRE YEARS OF CONCENTRATED TRAINING AND A DIPLOMA FROM ONE OF THE LESSER-KNOWN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS - NAMELY TO OPEN THIS CENTRE."
LATER HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS OPENED THE "BRITAIN IN HONG KONG" EXHIBITION.
-HE SAID: "BRITAIN AND HONG KONG HAVE HAD A LONG HISTORY TOGETHER AND, AT THE CORE OF THAT ASSOCIATION, HAS BEEN A THRIVING AND VIGOROUS COMMERCIAL RELATIONSHIP. AMONG THE EXHIBITORS TODAY ARE COMPANIES WHO HAVE PLAYED A LEADING PART IN FORGING THAT LINK OVER A VERY LOflG PERIOD.
"I AM DELIGHTED TO BE PRESENT AT THIS DEMONSTRATION OF BRITAIN’S PART IN THE TERRITORY’S REMARKABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TO DECLARE THIS EXHIBITION, 'BRITAIN IN HONG KONG’, OPEN."
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/5
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 9, 1989
- 5 -
PRINCESS OF WALES VISITS THE ELDERLY ♦ ♦♦♦♦♦
THE PRINCESS OF WALES SAW HOW SOME OF HONG KONG’S ELDERLY ARE CARED FOR WHEN SHE VISITED THE HELPING HAND CARE CENTRE AT CHAK ON ESTATE, KOWLOON. TODAY (THURSDAY).
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS TRAVELLED TO CHAK ON BY CAR AFTER HAVING ATTENDED THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE IN WAN CHAI.
THE CARE HOME AT CHAK ON ESTATE IS ONE OF THE LATEST TO BE OPENED BY HELPING HAND AND CAN HOUSE UP TO 7 8 OLI) PEOPLE.
THE PREMISES WERE PROVIDED BY THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT AND THE MAJOR CONSTRUCTION AND OUTFITTING COSTS WERE MET BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB WITH A $500,000 DONATION FROM THE ZONTA CLUB.
THE THREE SEPARATE PREMISES THAT MAKE UP THE CHAK ON CARE HOME HAVE A TOTAL STAFF OF 35.
ON ARRIVAL AT CHAK ON ESTATE HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS RECEIVED BY THE PROTOCOL OFFICER. AIR COMMODORE VIVIAN WARRINGTON, WHO PRESENTED THE CHAIRMAN OF HELPING HAND, MRS MARGARET CARTER, WHO IN TURN PRESENTED HELPING HAND’S HONORARY ADMINISTRATOR. FATHER SEAN BURKE AND ITS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. DR KALEI INN.
MRS CARTER ESCORTED THE PRINCESS OF WALES TO THE COMMUNITY ROOM FOR A SHORT BRIEFING ON THE HISTORY OF HELPING HAND.
THE EVICTION OF A GROUP OF ELDERLY MEN FROM A DORMITORY IN TSUEN WAN IN 1978 WAS THE SPUR THAT STARTED HELPING HAND. TODAY THE ORGANISATION HAS BECOME A WELL-ESTABLISHED CHARITY PROVIDING A RANGE OF HOUSING AND SOCIAL CARE FOR NEARLY 1.000 OLD PEOPLE.
BETWEEN 1978 AND 1983 HELPING HAND OPENED EIGHT TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA SHELTERS AND PROVIDED MUCH NEEDED ACCOMMODATION FOR MORE THAN 4,000 OLD PEOPLE.
IN 1983, WITH THE HELP OF THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT; THE ORGANISATION BEGAN TO BUILD PERMANENT ACCOMMODATION IN GOVERNMENT HOUSING ESTATES.
IN 1985, WITH THE GOVERNMENT INCLUDING HOUSING FOR SINGLE, ELDERLY PEOPLE IN ITS NEW HOUSING ESTATES, HELPING HAND TURNED ITS ATTENTION TO THE PROVISION OF PERSONAL AND NURSING CARE FOR ELDERLY NO LONGER ABLE TO CARE FOR THEMSELVES. THIS RESULTED IN THE ESTABLISHMENT OF CARE HOMES WHICH NOW TAKE UP A GREATER PART OF HELPING HAND’S RESOURCES
/BY MARCH .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
- 6 -
BY MARCH THIS YEAR HELPING HAND WAS RUNNING SIX CARE HOMES WITH ACCOMMODATION FOR 228 OLD FOLKS.
HELPING HAND., WHICH STARTED OUT AS A SMALL CHARITABLE ORGANISATION RELYING ON ITS OWN RESOURCES. IS NOW STRONGLY BACKED BY MANY GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS.
ONE OF THESE IS THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT WHICH HAS INTRODUCED THE SUBSIDISED PLACE SCHEME. UNDER THIS SCHEME THE DEPARTMENT SUBSIDISES 80 PER CENT OF THE PLACES AT NEW CARE HOMES IN LAI YIU, CHAK ON AND TAI WO HAU AT THE RATE OF $1,545 PER PERSON PER MONTH.
THESE HOMES HOUSE PEOPLE IN NEED OF CARE AND ATTENTION WHO ARE DRAWN FROM THE CENTRAL WAITING LIST OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT OR ARE REFERRED BY THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT.
THE PUBLIC HAS ALSO RESPONDED WELL TO HELPING HAND AND LAST YEAR ITS LAISEE COOKIE CAMPAIGN, ITS MAIN FUND RAISING DRIVE, REALISED $1.4 MILLION.
FROM AN ORGANISATION OPERATING FROM A DESK IN THE FOUNDER'S HOME HELPING HAND HAS GROWN SO THAT IT NOW HAS A STAFF OF 160, HEADED BY AN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.
AFTER THE BRIEFING, THE PRINCESS OF WALES SAT WITH ELDERLY RESIDENTS AT A TABLE WHERE THEY WERE WERE WORKING.
THE CHAIRMAN OF HELPING HAND’S FUND RAISING COMMITTEE, MRS DANIELA SHANNON, AND THE SUPERINTENDENT OF THE HOME, MR FUNG AND HIS STAFF WERE PRESENTED TO THE ROYAL VISITOR.
THE PRINCESS OF WALES WALKED ACROSS THE HOUSING ESTATE TO THE WING CHAK HOME WHERE SHE SAW VOLUNTEER MEDICAL OFFICER. DI! STEPHEN TSE, GIVING A MEDICAL CHECKUP TO ONE OF THE RESIDENTS. SHE ALSO CHATTED TO RESIDENTS TAKING PART IN THEIR NORMAL DAILY ACTIVITIES.
HELPING HAND’S SECRETARY, MRS JILL JAMES; TREASURER, MR DAVID MACE; ZONTA CLUB PRESIDENT, MISS JANICE CHAN AND HEAD OF SECRETARIAT, ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB, MR N.C. SUTHERLAND. WERE PRESENTED TO HER ROYAL HIGHNESS.
THE PRINCESS OF WALES UNVEILED A COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE BEFORE LEAVING FOR THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL AT ABERDEEN.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
7
REGIMENTAL VISIT BY ROYAL COLONEL-IN-CH IEF ♦ t ♦ ♦ *
THE PRINCE OF WALES, WHO IS COLONEL-IN-CHIEF OF THE 2ND KING EDWARD Vil'S OWN GURKHA RIFLES (THE STRMOOR RIFLES). VISITED OFFICERS AND MEN OF THE REGIMENT’S SECOND BATTALION ON BORDER DUTY TODAY (THURSDAY).
HE ALSO TOURED THE BATTALION’S CAMP AT GALLIPOLI LINES NEAR SHEK KONG AND PRESENTED A CEREMONIAL KUKRI TO THE REGIMENT’S OUTSTANDING SOLDIER.
FOR HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE VISIT WAS A CHANCE TO RENEW AN OLD FRIENDSHIP BECAUSE THE BATTALION’S COMMANDANT. LIEUTENANT COLONEL CHRISTOPHER LAVENDER. IS A FORMER EQUERRY TO THE PRINCE OF WALES.
THE 2ND GURKHAS,AS THEY ARE MORE COMMONLY KNOWN. ARE THE OLDEST GURKHA REGIMENT IN THE BRITISH ARMY, RAISED IN 1815, THE YEAR OF THE BATTLE OF WATERLOO.
IT WAS THE FIRST NON-BRITISH UNIT TO TAKE THE BRITISH IDE DURING THE INDIAN MUTINY AND ITS REGIMENTAL DAY, DELHI DAY ON SEPTEMBER 14, CELEBRATES ITS HEROIC SERVICE DURING THE SIEGE OF DELHI.
IN MORE RECENT TIMES THE REGIMENT SERVED WITH DISTINCTION IN THE MALAYAN EMERGENCY (1948-60), THE BRUNEI REBELLION (1962) AND THE BORNEO CONFRONTATION WITH INDONESIA.
THE PRINCE OF WALES FLEW FROM HMS TAMAR IN A WESSEX HELICOPTER OF 28 SQUADRON. ROYAL AIR FORCE. TO CREST HILL ON THE HONG KONG/CHI NA BORDER.
HE WAS RECEIVED BY THE COMMANDANT, LT. COL. LAVENDER, WHO PRESENTED MAJOR (QUEEN’S GURKHA OFFICER) HARI BAHADUR GURUNG. THE OFFICERS BRIEFED THE PRINCE OF WALES ON THE BATTALION’S ROLE ON THE BORDER.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, ACCOMPANIED BY THE COMMANDANT. FLEW TO GALLIPOLI LINES WHERE THE COMMANDANT PRESENTED HIS SECOND-IN-COMMAND. MAJOR R.H. COLEMAN AND THE ADJUTANT, CAPTAIN I.A. RIGDEN.
AT A SPECIAL CEREMONY. HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PRESENTED THE PRINCE OF WALES KUKRI TO COLOUR SERGEANT MAHENDRA THAPA.
A LAVISHLY ORNATE VERSION OF THE TRADITIONAL GURKHA KNIFE. THE PRINCE OF WALES KUKRI HAS BEEN PRESENTED ANNUALLY SINCE 1979 TO THE SOLDIER OR SENIOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER OF THE FIRST OR SECOND BATTALION WHO IS JUDGED TO HAVE CONTRIBUTED MOST TO THE REGIMENT DURING THE YEAR.
/THIS YEAR
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
8
THIS YEAR IT WAS PRESENTED PERSONALLY BY THE PRINCE OF WALES HIMSELF.
AT THE END OF THE CEREMONY. MAJOR (QUEEN'S GURKHA OFFICER) CHINTABAHADUR GURUNG PRESENTED THE PRINCE OF WALES WITH A PUCHA1. A NEPALI WOODEN CONTAINER FOR WINE, AS A MEMENTO FROM THE BATTALION.
LUNCHED MUN.
FOLLOWING HIS TOUR OF GALLIPOLI LINES HIS ROYAL WITH THE BATTALION BEFORE DEPARTING BY HELICOPTER
HIGHNESS
FOR TUEN
--------0----------
PRINCESS OF WALES SEES POLICE IN ACTION *****
THE PRINCESS OF WALES SAW FIRST HAND WHAT GOES INTO THE MAKING OF A HONG KONG POLICE OFFICER WHEN SHE VISITED THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE’S TRAINING SCHOOL AT WONG CHUK HANG TODAY (THURSDAY).
BESIDES SEEING MALE AND FEMALE OFFICERS UNDERGOING SELF DEFENCE AND WEAPON TRAINING. DRILL AND ASSESSMENT TESTS. HER ROYAL HIGHNESS CHATTED TO POLICE FAMILIES AND WAS ENTERTAINED TO LUNCH IN THE OFFICERS’ MESS.
THE PRINCESS OF WALES ARRIVED AT THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL BY CAR AFTER VISITING THE HELPING HAND CARE HOME AT CHAK ON ESTATE IN KOWLOON.
ON ARRIVAL SHE WAS GIVEN A ROYAL SALUTE BY A QUARTER GUARD AT THE MAIN GATE AND WAS RECEIVED ALONGSIDE THE DRILL SQUARE BY THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, MR RAYMON ANNING.
THE COMMISSIONER PRESENTED THE DIRECTOR OF PERSONNEL AND TRAINING, SENIOR ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER KEITH LOMAS; THE ACTING DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF FORCE TRAINING AND COMMANDANT OF THE PTS, ACTING ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER BENNY NG CHING-KWOK AND CHIEF STAFF INSPECTOR ADMINISTRATION. WOMAN CHIEF INSPECTOR ROSE TONG KIT-LIN.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS SAW TRAINEES TAKING DRILL INSTRUCTION ON THE SQUARE AND OTHER RECRUITS BEING GIVEN AN EXAMINATION IN HANDLING SMITH AND WESSON REVOLVERS, REMINGTON SHOTGUNS, AR15 RIFLES AND SMOKE PISTOLS.
THE PRINCESS OF WALES SAW RECRUITS UNDERGOING PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT TESTS ON HOW TO HANDLE INCIDENTS. SENIOR STAFF OFFICER NIGEL BROOMFIELD OF THE TRAINING DEVELOPMENT DIVFSION EXPLAINED THE PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT SYSTEM TO THE ROYAL VISITOR.
/IN THIS
Thursday, November 9, 4989
- 9 -
IN THIS INSTANCE RECRUIT POLICE CONSTABLE LAW KWOK-HOI WAS BEING ASSESSED BY INSPECTOR LO CHUEN-MAN ON HIS HANDLING OF A BURGLARY INCIDENT WHILE WOMAN RECRUIT POLICE CONSTABLE FONG SAU-KUEN WAS BEING EXAMINED BY SENIOR INSPECTOR CHAN HO-IP ON HER HANDLING OF A DRUG DEALING INCIDENT.
IN THE GYMNASIUM HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WATCHED RECRUITS PRACTISING AIKIDO. THE FORM OF SELF-DEFENCE ADOPTED BY THE ROYAL 1IONG KONG POLICE FORCE.
SHE WAS BRIEFED ON THE SELF-DEFENCE SYSTEM BY STAFF OFFICER. CENTRAL TRAINING SERVICES DIVISION. SUPERINTENDENT BILL FULLERTON. SELF-DEFENCE INSTRUCTORS SERGEANTS LUNG CHUN-FUNG, LEE CHU-MING AND YUEN W1NG-NGO AND WOMAN SERGEANT LAW LUEN-YING WERE IN CHARGE OF THE TRAINING SESSION.
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS ESCORTED TO THE OFFICERS’ MESS WHERE THE DEPUTY COMMANDANT, POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL, SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT DAVID HUGHES; THE DIRECTOR OF MUSIC. SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT COLIN WOOD: THE VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE MESS COMMITTEE (EXECUTIVE). SUPERINTENDENT PAUL CROFT AND THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE MESS COMMITTEE (St: JAL). WOMAN PROBATIONARY INSPECTOR JENNY LA) Fl'NG-HA. WERE PRESENTED.
DURING PRE-LUNCH DRINKS HER ROYAL HIGHNESS SPCLE TO STAFF \ND TRAINEES.
THE PRINCESS OF WALES WAS ESCORTED TO LUNCH BY THE COMMISSIONER AND THE COMMANDANT PTS. THEY WERE CEREMONIALLY PIPED INTO THE DINING ROOM RY PIPE MAJOR HSU YORK-FUNG.
SEATED AT THE TOP TABLE WITH THE ROYAL GUEST-OF-HONOUR WERE THE FORCE'S MOST SENIOR WOMAN OFFICER. CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT FELICIA WONG LEUNG KAM-SHAN: ACTING SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT MRS PEGGY STEVENS. CHAIRMAN OF THE JUNIOR POLICE OFFICER’S ASSOCIATION. MR TSUI WAI-CHUN; SENIOR INSPECTOR TING HUNG-KAY. WOMAN POLICE CONSTABLE LAM MING-YIN. A GOLD MEDAL WINNER FROM THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD SCHEME AND WOMAN SENIOR INSPECTOR BEATRICE WOU TIEN-TCHE OF THE INTERPOL OFFICE.
THE LUNCH MENU FOR 120 GUESTS CONSISTED OF GRAPEFRUIT COCKTAIL. CHICKEN IN BUTTER SAUCE AND STRAWBERRY MELBA.
AFTER LUNCH THE COMMISSIONER ASKED HER ROYAL HIGHNESS TO RECEIVE A SILVER-PLATED. PEWTER FIGURE OF A ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE CONSTABLE AS A MEMENTO.
BEFORE LEAVING BY HELICOPTER FOR TUEN MUN THE PRINCESS OF WALES MET AND TALKED WITH POLICE FAMILIES.
SHE WAS THEN PRESENTED WITH A BOUQUET BY WOMAN RECRUIT POLICE CONSTABLE YENDI FONG SAU-KUEN WHO WAS PRESENTED TO HER EARLIER DURING THE ASSESSMENT DEMONSTRATION.
HER ROUTE TO THE HELICOPTER PAD WAS LINED BY STAFF. TRAINEES AND RESIDENTS OF THE POLICE MARRIED QUARTERS.
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/1o .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
10 -
TUEN MUN ON DISPLAY ♦ t * *
FOR ROYAL VISITORS * *
TUEN MUN PUT ON ITS BRIGHTEST FACE TODAY (THURSDAY) WHEN THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES VISITED THE NEW TOWN FOR THE CLOSING CEREMONY THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
THE ACCENT WAS ON YOUTH AS THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WATCHED CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE SING, GIVE DANCING PERFORMANCES AND TAKE PART IN SPORTS AND GAMES BEFORE THE ROYAL VISITORS.
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES ARRIVED SEPARATELY BY HELICOPTER AFTER COMPLETING THEIR OWN INDIVIDUAL PROGRAMMES IN THE MORNING.'
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS HAD BEEN VISITING THE 2ND BATTALION, 2ND KING EDWARD VII’S OWN GURKHA RIFLES WHILE THE PRINCESS OF WALES HAD TOURED THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL AT WONG CHUK HANG.
FROM THE TANG SHIU KIN SPORTS GROUND. WHERE THEIR WESSEX HELICOPTERS OF 28 SQUADRON, ROYAL AIR FORCE HAD LANDED, THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES TRAVELLED BY CAR TO THE TUEN MUN TOWN HALL WHERE THEY WERE RECEIVED BY THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR DONALD LIAO POON-HUAI, WHO PRESENTED THE REGIONAL SECRETARY, NEW TERRITORIES. MR ADOLF HSU.
MR LIAO AND MR HSU THEN PRESENTED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG; THE CHAIRMAN OF TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD, MR LAU WONG-FAT; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE TUEN MUN FESTIVAL, MR CHAN TIN-SANG, THE DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL SERVICES. MR H.H.T. BARMA AND THE DISTRICT OFFICER TUEN MUN, MR JOHN WAN.
AS A CLOUD OF BALLOONS WERE RELEASED THE TUEN MUN CHILDREN’S CHOIR BEGAN THEIR PERFORMANCE. THE ROYAL VISITORS WALKED TO THE SOUTHERN END OF THE TOWN HALL CONCOURSE WHERE THEY SAW LOCAL RESIDENTS PERFORMING AEROBIC AND MORRIS DANCING.
AT AN EXHIBITION OF PHOTOGRAPHS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF TUEN MUN NEW TOWN THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES WERE BRIEFED ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE AREA.
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES SEPARATELY WALKED THROUGH A CARNIVAL AND GAMES STALL AREA. PAUSING TO CHAT TO SOME OF THE CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE AT PLAY.
THE ROYAL COUPLE MET LATER AT AN ADJACENT GARDEN TO SEE A COLLECTION OF BONSAI FROM CHING CHUNG MONASTERY. THERE CHIEF PASTOR OF CHING CHUNG MONASTERY, MR HAU PO-WOON, WAS PRESENTED TO THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES.
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES LEFT BY CAR FOR THE TANG SHUI KIN SPORTS GROUND WHERE THE PRINCESS OF WALES BOARDED A HELICOPTER TO FLY BACK TO HMS TAMAR.
THE PRINCE OF WALES, ACCOMPANIED BY MR DONALD LIAO, DEPARTED BY CAR FOR SHUI TAU VILLAGE.
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/11
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
11
PRINCE OF WALES SEES THE OLD NEW TERRITORIES t i t t t
FROM VISITING TUEN MUN, ONE OF HONG KONG'S NEWEST TOWNS, THE PRINCE OF WALES TODAY (THURSDAY) TRAVELLED A FEW MILES BY CAR AND CENTURIES BACK IN HISTORY WHEN HE VISITED TWO OF ITS OLDEST VILLAGES, SHUT TAU AND SHUI MEI.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS VISITED SEPTUAGENARIAN MADAM TANG MOK YING AT NO 35. SHUI TAU TSUEN. A VILLAGE WHICH PRE-DATES BY CENTURIES THE FOUNDING OF MODERN HONG KONG.
MADAM TANG’S FAMILY ARE PART OF THE TANG CLAN WHOSE ANCESTOR TANG FU-HIP SETTLED IN THE KAM TIN AREA IN 1105 AD. (OR, ACCORDING TO THE CHINESE CALENDAR ABOUT THE SECOND TO FIFTH YEAR OF SHUNG NING ERA OF THE EMPEROR OF FAI CHUNG OF THE SUNG DYNASTY).
THE TANGS HAD A CLOSE BLOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH THE SUNG EMPERORS AND TANG FU-HIP'S GRANDSON MARRIED A SISTER OF THE EMPEROR GAO ZUNG.
TODAY THE TANGS ARE ONE OF THE FAMOUS CLANS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE TWIN VILLAGES OF SHUI TAU AND SHUI MEI ARE PART OF THE KAM TIN HEUNG (OR GROUP OF VILLAGES) OCCUPIED BY THE TANG CLAN,
THE PRINCE OF WALES ARRIVED BY CAR FROM TUEN MUN ACCOMPANIED BY THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR DONALD LIAO POON-HUAI, WHO PRESENTED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD, MR. TAI KUEN; THE DISTRICT OFFICER YUEN LONG, MR ROBIN IP; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE KAM TIN RURAL COMMITTEE, MR.TANG CHI-LEUNG AND VILLAGE REPRESENTATIVES MR TANG KWOK-CHAI, MR TANG KAM-LEUNG AND MR TAM TIM-KAU.
THE ROYAL PARTY BEGAN THEIR TOUR OF THE VILLAGE AT THE TANG CHUN-YUI KUEN CHI ( OR ANCESTRAL HALL). BUILT IN THE HONG HEI ERA (1662-1722) OF THE CHING DYNASTY IN REMEMBRANCE OF THE THREE SONS, CHUN, YUI AND KUEN, OF MR TANG HUNG-YEE, THE GREAT GRAND ANCESTOR OF THE TANG CLAN.
IT WAS BUILT IN AN AUSPICIOUS PLACE WHERE VILLAGERS BELIEVED IT WOULD BRING GREAT PROSPERITY FOR THE CLAN.
IT WAS THE MAIN ANCESTRAL HALL FOR THE INHABITANTS OF THE VILLAGES OF SHUI TAU. TAI HONG WAI. CHI TONG TSUEN AND KIT HING WAI.
THE HALL, NOW USED FOR LOCAL CELEBRATIONS, HAS IN THE PAST BEEN USED AS A TUTORIAL SCHOOL AND A MEETING HALL.
IT WAS REDECORATED IN 1980, BUT MOST OF THE ART AND CRAFT WORK. OF WHICH THE VILLAGERS ARE JUSTLY PROUD, REMAINED UNCHANGED.
/HIS ROYAL .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9» 1989
12 -
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS THEN ESCORTED TO THE TANG CHING-LOK CHI ANCESTRAL HALL IN SHUI MEI VILLAGE. THE HALL WAS BUILT BETWEEN THE END OF THE MING DYNASTY AND THE BEGINNING OF THE CHING DYNASTY (APPROXIMATELY 1640-1644 AD) BY THE GREAT-GRANDSONS OF TANG CHING-LOK WHO DIED A VERY WEALTHY MAN.
IT WAS THE ANCESTRAL HALL OF SHUI MET. WING LUNG WAI. KO PO, KAT HING WAI AND CHI TONG TSUEN VILLAGES WHO USED IT TO WORSHIP THEIR ANCESTORS AND FOR THE TRADITIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF PORK TO MALE DESCENDANTS AT FESTIVALS
IT WAS ALSO USED AS A COURT AND A SCHOOL AND IS NOW USED AS A PUBLIC MEETING PLACE.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS CALLED ON MADAM TANG AT NO 35. SHUI TAU. THE HOUSE IS BETWEEN 100 AND 200 YEARS OLD AND IS AN EXAMPLE OF THE TRADITIONAL NEW TERRITORIES VILLAGE-TYPE ARCHITECTURE. THE ROOF WAS BUILT OF TILES IN A SLIDING DESIGN IN A STYLE KNOWN IN CHINESE AS THE "PYRAMID ROOF OF TILES.
THE HOUSE OWNERS. MR. TANG CHI-FAN AND HIS FAMILY, LIVE MAINLY IN ENGLAND, WHERE THEY ARE IN BUSINESS, AND KEEP THE HOUSE FOR THEIR VISITS TO HONG KONG. IT IS OCCUPIED BY MR TANG CHI-FAN’S MOTHER MADAM TANG MOK YING. WHO IS OVER 70 YEARS OLD AND WHO IS BEING CARED FOR BY HER YOUNGEST SON, MR. TANG YAN-MAU AND HER DAUGHTER-IN-LAW, MADAM TANG KONG YUN-GUI WHO LIVE NEARBY.
DURING HIS BRIEF STAY IN THE HOUSE, THE PRINCE OF WALES SHOWED KEEN INTEREST IN THE CHINESE COOKING UTENSILS. HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS SIGNED TWO FIRST DAY COVERS FOR THE TANGS.
BEFORE LEAVING, THE PRINCE OF WALES WAS GIVEN A LUCKY PACKET (LAI SEE) CONTAINING TWO CHINESE COINS ISSUED DURING THE ERA OF EMPEROR QIANLONG OF CHING DYNASTY.
THE PRINCE OF WALES CONTINUED HIS WALK THROUGH THE VILLAGE DURING WHICH HE WAVED TO THE VILLAGERS ALONG THE ROUTE AND GREETED THEM IN CANTONESE "NEI HO MA?" (HOW ARE YOU?). HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS LATER VISITED THE SO LAU YUEN OR HALL, BUILT IN THE CHING DYNASTY (1614-1911) AS A PRIVATE STUDY HALL. IT WAS LATER USED AS A SCHOOL AND FOR THE PRACTICE OF KUNG FU. IT WAS ALSO USED AS A COURT WHERE VISITING MAGISTRATES SETTLED VILLAGE DISPUTES.
IT IS NOW USED AS A VILLAGE MEETING PLACE AND AS A VENUE FOR PARTIES AND LOCAL CELEBRATIONS.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS BRIEFED ON THE HISTORY OF THE HALL AND SAW EXHIBITS OF OLD FARMING EQUIPMENT.
THE PRINCE OF WALES LEFT SHUI TAU BY CAR FOR BORNEO LINES IN SHEK KONG WHERE HE WAS MET BY THE COMMANDER ROYAL AIR FORCE GROUP CAPTAIN D.J. HAMILTON RUMP, RAF, WHO PRESENTED THE OFFICER COMMANDING 28 SQUADRON, SQUADRON LEADER G. R. EVANS, RAF.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS LEFT IN A RAF WESSEX HELICOPTER FOR UMS TAMAR.
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/13........
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 9. 1989
- 13 -
PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES ENTERTAIN ON BRITANNIA ♦ * ♦ * *
AFTER THE HECTIC SECOND FULL DAY OF THEIR VISIT TO HONG KONG THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES ENTERTAINED 180 OF THE LOCAL CITIZENRY AT A DINNER AND AT A RECEPTION ON BOARD HER MAJESTY’S YACHT BRITANNIA THIS EVENING (THURSDAY).
THIRTY GUESTS WHO JOINED THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES FOR DINNER REPRESENTED SEVERAL WALKS OF LIFE AND OCCUPATIONS IN THE TERRITORY.
THEY INCLUDED A FASHION DESIGNER. A CONSUMER REPRESENTATIVE, ACADEMICS. A BROADCASTER. BASIC LAW DRAFTERS AND INDUSTRIALISTS.
AFTER DINNER THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES ENTERTAINED 150 GUESTS AT A RECEPTION ON THE ROYAL YACHT.
LATER IN THE EVENING THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES AND THEIR GUESTS WATCHED FROM THE DECK OF THE BRITANNIA AS THE BAND OF THE ROYAL MARINES GAVE A DISPLAY ON THE JETTY AT HMS TAMAR.
THE BAND DISPLAY IS A FEATURE OF ANY ROYAL VISIT IN WHICH HMY BRITANNIA IS INVOLVED.
THE LAST SUCH DISPLAY WAS GIVEN DURING THE QUEEN'S VISIT IN OCTOBER 1986.
-----0-----
PRINCESS OF WALES BIDS FAREWELL TO
* ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
AT THE END OF HER BUSY VISIT TO HONG WALES LEFT THE TERRITORY FOR LONDON TONIGHT CATHAY PACIFIC FLIGHT CX 251.
HONG KONG
KONG THE PRINCESS OF (THURSDAY) ON BOARD
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS TRAVELLED FROM HMS TAMAR BY CAR TO HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WHERE SHE WAS RECEIVED BY THE GOVERNOR. SIR DAVID WILSON, AND LADY WILSON.
AT
THE DIRECTOR
THE AIRBRIDGE TO THE PLANE THE GOVERNOR AND LADY ----------------------------- - ‘ WARRINGTON
OF PROTOCOL. AIR COMMODORE
GOVERNOR'S AIDE-DE-CAMP, LEAVE.
SUPERINTENDENT
V.L.
GILES
RUSSELL,TOOK
WILSON, AND THE
THEIR
FLIGHT WAS HER LADY-LIEUTENANT COMMANDER
ACCOMPANYING HER ROYAL HIGHNESS ON THE IN-WAITING, VISCOUNTESS CAMPDEN AND HER EQUERRY, PATRICK JEPHSON, RN, AND MEMBERS OF HER HOUSEHOLD.
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/1U .......
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 9. 1989
"1U
ROYAL TOUR ENDS WITH WESTERN WALKABOUT
*****
THE PRINCE OF WALES’S FOUR-DAY OFFICIAL VISIT TO HONG KONG WILL END TOMORROW (FRIDAY) WITH A WALKABOUT IN WESTERN DURING WHICH HE WILL VISIT CHINESE MEDICINE AND DRIED SEAFOOD SHOPS.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL SAMPLE CHIU CHOW TEA AND EXPERIENCE SOME OF THE SIGHTS. SOUNDS AND SCENTS THAT MAKE UP ONE OF THE OLbfeST PARTS OF HONG KONG.
THE WESTERN WALKABOUT WILL BE A SHARP CONTRAST TO HIS FIRST OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENT OF THE DAY, A VISIT TO THE JAGUAR CAR EXHIBITION IN THE LANDMARK.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL TRAVEL FROM HMS TAMAR TO THE LANDMARK BY CAR ACCOMPANIED BY THE BRITISH TRADE COMMISSIONER IN HONG KONG. MR P.W. HEAP.
THE NEW CARS ON SHOW WILL INCLUDE A SOVEREIGN 4.0 SALOON, A DAIMLER. AN XJS CONVERTIBLE, A JAGUAR 2.9 LITRE AND AN XJS 3.6.
ON ARRIVAL AT THE DES VOEUX ROAD ENTRANCE TO THE BUILDING THE PRINCE OF WALES WILL BE RECEIVED BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON.
MR HEAP WILL PRESENT MR CHARLES MACKAY, CHAIRMAN OF INCHCAPE PACIFIC: MR STUART ROBINSON, CHIEF EXECUTIVE JAGUAR HONG KONG; VISCOUNT ERRINGTON, MANAGING DIRECTOR INCHCAPE CHINA LTD; MR ROGER PUTNAM. SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR OF JAGUAR CARS UK AND JAGUAR CARS UK'S AND DIRECTOR OVESEAS SALES, MR NIGEL HESLOP.
FROM THE LANDMARK THE PRINCE OF WALES WILL TRAVEL BY CAR ALONG DES VOEUX ROAD TO AN AREA KNOWN AS THE NAM PAK HONG, WHICH HAS BEEN A BUSINESS CENTRE SINCE HONG KONG WAS FOUNDED AS A TRADING PORT IN 1842.
THE NAM PAK HONG IS A CLUSTER OF SHOPS ALONG A FEW NARROW STREETS OCCUPIED BY BONHAM STRANDS EAST AND WEST AND WING LOK STREET IN SHEUNG WAN.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL CALL IN THE SHOP OF CHIU KWONG LEE CO LTD WHERE THE MANAGING DIRECTOR. MR CHIU KWONG-HOI WILL OFFER HIS ROYAL VISITOR CHIU CHOW TEA AND EXPLAIN SOME OF THE TRADITIONAL MEDICINES ON DISPLAY.
THE PRINCE ’OF WALES WILL ALSO VISIT THE SHOP NEXT DOOR, PAK CHEONG TONG. OWNED BY MR TSANG SAU-YUEN.
THE PRINCE OF WALES WILL WALK ALONG BONHAM STRAND WEST TO DES VOEUX ROAD. AN AREA KNOWN FOR ITS DRIED SEAFOOD SHOPS. AND CALL IN AT ONE OF THEM, FOOK SHING.
AFTER HIS HOUR-LONG STROLL THROUGH WESTERN, HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WILL LEAVE BY CAR FOR HMS TAMAR WHERE HE WILL BOARD HMY BRITANNIA.
AT 1 PM THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON WILL BOARD THE BRITANNIA TO BID FAREWELL TO HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS BEFORE THE ROYAL YACHT SAILS AT 2 PM AT THE END OF THE FOUR-DAY ROYAL TOUR.
- 0 - -
/15......‘
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
SPECIAL PUBLIC TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE ROYAL VISIT TO WESTERN DISTRICT t * t 1 t
BUS AND TRAM PASSENGER'S ARE ADVISED TO NOTE SERVICE CHANGES ARISING FROM THE VISIT TO WESTERN DISTRICT BY HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES TOMORROW (FRIDAY) MORNING.
TRAMS WILL OPERATE NORMALLY UNTIL 9.30 AM BUT FROM THEN UNTIL ABOUT 12 NOON TRAM OPERATION BETWEEN MARKET AND CENTRE STREET WILL BE SUSPENDED.
BUS SERA ICES WILL ALSO BE DIVERTED FROM THE EASTERN END OF DES VOEUX ROAD WEST BETWEEN 8 AM AND 12 NOON, AND BUS PASSENGERS ARE ADVISED TO READ NOTICES ON BUS STOPS FOR DETAILS OF INDIVIDUAL SERVICE DIVERSIONS.
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GLOBAL FREE TRADE FOUNDATION FOR FUTURE ECONOMY t t * t t t
AS PAST DEVELOPMENTS HAVE CLEARLY SHOWN, GLOBAL FREE TRADE IS THE BEST POSSIBLE FOUNDATION ON WHICH TO BUILD THE FUTURE ECONOMIC PROGRESS OF HONG KONG, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, SIR PIERS JACOBS, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING AT A LUNCHEON FOR THE PRESIDENTS OF THE OVERSEAS HONG KONG ASSOCIATIONS, SIR PIERS SAID HONG KONG WAS FIRMLY COMMITTED TO FREE TRADE AND THE MULTILATERAL TRADING SYSTEM EMBODIED IN THE GENERAL AGREEMENT ON TARIFFS AND TRADE.
"OUR OPEN MARKET POLICY APPLIES TO TRADE IN GOODS, FINANCIAL AND OTHER. SERVICES, AS WELL AS INVESTMENTS IN INDUSTRIES," HE SAID.
HONG KONG, WITH ITS STRATEGIC LOCATION, HIGHLY EFFICIENT INFRASTRUCTURE AND SOPHISTICATED COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK, OCCUPIED A PLACE OF IMPORTANCE IN THE INCREASINGLY PROSPEROUS ASIA-PACIFIC REGION, SIR PIERS NOTED.
"THIS RELATIONSHIP IS PARTICULARLY RELEVANT IN VIEW OF HONG KONG'S UNIQUE POSITION TO CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS CHINA'S OVERALL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
"WITH OUR LONG EXPERIENCE AND PROVEN EXPERTISE IN TRADING AND OUR KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF CHINA. WE HAVE A LOT TO OFFER TO WESTERN TRADERS WHO ARE KEEN ON DEVELOPING THE POTENTIALLY VAST CH I NESE MARKET . " HE S A 11).
SIR PIERS TOLD THE OVERSEAS VISITORS THAT THE IMPACT OF RECENT EVENTS IN CHINA ON OUR ECONOMY HAD BEEN TEMPORARY.
/"THE FUNDAMENTAL
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
- 16 -
"THE FUNDAMENTAL ATTRACTIONS OF HONG KONG AS A PLACE FOR BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT REMAIN UNSHAKEN." HE SAID.
CITING EXAMPLES OF NEW INVESTMENTS, HE SAID FIVE CONSORTIA BID FOR THE LARGEST SITE EVER SOLD IN THE CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT TOWARDS THE END OF JULY AND IT WAS A CLOSE CONTEST WON BY A BID OF US$350 MILLION.
ANOTHER EXAMPLE WAS THE SECURING OF A US$1.35 BILLION LOAN BY THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL TERMINALS TO CONSTRUCT TWO NEW CONTAINER TERMINALS. THE LOAN SYNDICATE INVOLVED U.S., JAPANESE AND HONG KONG INTERESTS.
THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER FOR THE FRANCHISE TO BUILD AND OPERATE THE WORLD’S BIGGEST CABLE TELEVISION NETWORK IN HONG KONG BROUGHT TOGETHER CODTTEL OF BELGIUM, U.S. WEST AND HONG KONG INTERESTS WHICH WILL BE INVESTING US$700 MILLION IN BUILDING THIS SYSTEM.
"OTHER MAJOR INVESTMENTS INCLUDE A US$15 MILLION SEMI-CONDUCTOR ASSEMBLY HOUSE WITH EUROPEAN AND SINGAPORE INTERESTS, A US$21 MILLION JOINT VENTURE INVOLVING THE BRITISH ICI GROUP, MORE THAN US$10 MILLION TO BE PUT IN BY THE DAIDO CONCRETE COMPANY TO EXPAND ITS PRODUCTION FACILITIES TN ONE OF OUR INDUSTRIAL ESTATES AND THE SETTING UP OF A MANUFACTURING AND SERVICING COMPANY BY THE NEC CORPORATION IN HONG KONG FOR THEIR PERSONAL COMPUTERS, DISK DRIVES AND PRINTERS," HE SAID.
SIR PIERS SAID THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT, APART FROM MAINTAINING A SOUND TRADING FOUNDATION, WAS TAKING CONCRETE STEPS IN THE CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT OF HONG KONG’S INFRASTRUCTURE TO MEET FUTURE NEEDS.
THE DECISION TO REPLACE THE EXISTING AIRPORT AT KAI TAK WITH A NEW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK WAS PART OF A COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGY FOR A MASSIVE EXPANSION OF OUR PORT AND AIRPORT FACILITIES TO COPE WITH HONG KONG’S RAPIDLY GROWING ROLE AS ENTREPOT AND REGIONAL HUB, HE SAID.
"THE TOTAL INVESTMENT, WHICH WILL COMPRISE BOTH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE MONIES, IS ESTIMATED TO BE IN THE ORDER OF SOME US$16 BILLION.
"WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT HONG KONG WILL CONTINUE TO PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN BOTH THE REGIONAL AND THE GLOBAL ECONOMY. THERE ARE TREMENDOUS OPPORTUNITIES FOR INVESTORS IN HONG KONG," HE SAID.
"MEMBERS OF THE OVERSEAS HONG KONG ASSOCIATIONS, ALL OF WHOM HAVE CLOSE BUSINESS CONNECTIONS WITH HONG KONG, HAVE ACTUALLY EXPERIENCED THIS FIRST HAND.
"THERE IS NO DOUBT THAT YOUR ASSOCIATIONS WILL PLAY AN IMPORTANT PART IN FURTHER STRENGTHENING ECONOMIC TIES BETWEEN YOUR COUNTRIES AND HONG KONG. WE WELCOME AND TREASURE THESE RELATIONSHIPS AND WE HOPE THAT THEY WILL CONTINUE TO GROW TO OUR MUTUAL BENEFIT," HE ADDED.
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/17 U.UM
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 9. 1989
INCREASED SPENDING ON SOCIAL WELFARE
THE GOVERNMENT’S TOTAL EXPENDITURE OF $5,000 MILLION FOR WELFARE SERVICES IN THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR IS IMPRESSIVE BY ANY STANDARD. THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG. SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
THE SUM ALSO REPRESENTED A RISE OF ABOUT 26 PER CENT OVER THAT IN THE PREVIOUS FINANCIAL YEAR. SHE SAID.
SPEAKING AT THE LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF HONG KONG SOUTH. MRS WONG EXPLAINED THAT THE SUM COVERED A WIDE RANGE OF WELFARE SERVICES INCLUDING THOSE FOR OFFENDERS, YOUNG PEOPLE, THE ELDERLY, FAMILY WELFARE. REHABILITATION. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL SECURITY PAYMENTS.
IT ALSO COVERED CAPITAL AND RECURRENT EXPENDITURE, INCLUDING SUBVENTIONS TO 157 VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.
SHE POINTED OUT THAT SPENDING ON SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES HAD RISEN SIX TIMES OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS COMPARED WITH AN INCREASE IN TOTAL GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURE OF ONLY FOUR TIMES IN THE SAME PERIOD.
MENTIONING THE CHANGES IN THE SHARING OF THE OVERALL GOVERNMENT BUDGET AND TN RELATION TO GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) IN THE LAST DECADE. MRS WONG NOTED THAT IN 1979-80 SOCIAL WELFARE ACCOUNTED FOR 4.6 PER CENT OF TOTAL GOVERNMENT SPENDING WHICH IN TURN REPRESENTED ABOUT 15 PER CENT OF GDP.
AT PRESENT, IT HAD GRADUALLY INCREASED TO 6.3 PER CENT OF TOTAL GOVERNMENT SPENDING WHICH REPRESENTED 16 PER CENT OF GDP.
SHE SAID: "THERE IS LITTLE DOUBT THAT OUR RATE OF ECONOMIC GROWTH IN THE PAST DECADE HAS PRODUCED A HIGHER STANDARD OF LIVING FOR OUR COMMUNITY, WITH CORRESPONDINGLY HIGHER SOCIAL ASPIRATIONS AND EXPECTATIONS.
"IN KEEPING PACE WITH THESE CHANGES, WE HAVE THEREFORE WITNESSED THE STEADY DEVELOPMENT OF A DIVERSE RANGE OF WELFARE SERVICES TO MEET THE NEEDS OF OUR COMMUNITY.
"THE FINANCIAL RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES DEPEND ON BOTH THE PERFORMANCE OF THE ECONOMY. AND THE GOVERNMENT’S OVERALL BUDGETARY SITUATION AS WELL AS DEPARTMENTAL PRIORITIES.
"ALTHOUGH RESOURCES ARE NOT UNLIMITED, THE PUBLIC’S . EXPECTATIONS TEND TO GO ON INCREASING.
"FOR THIS REASON, THE DEPARTMENT HAS TO, WITHIN THE RESOURCES AVAILABLE, PLAN AND SET PRIORITIES, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE CHANGING NEEDS OF SOCIETY."
/MRS WONG
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
- 18 -
MRS WONG SAID THAT MORE THAN 85 PER CENT OF THE PRESENT RECURRENT EXPENDITURE WENT ON YOUNG PEOPLE, THE ELDERLY. AND REHABILITATION AS WELL AS FAMILY WELFARE. AND THE FIRST THREE FIELDS HAD ENJOYED A SHARP RISE TN PRIORITIES.
"THIS SHIFT IN EMPHASIS HAS BEEN NECESSARY AS THE PUBLIC IS NO LONGER SATISFIED WITH BASIC SERVICES.
"DEMANDS FOR SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES HAVE BECOME MORE SOPHISTICATED. MATCHING THE DEVELOPMENTS OF SOCIETY ITSELF." SHE SAID.
ON FUTURE DEVELOPMENT. MRS WONG COMMENTED: "WE NEED TO SET OUR SIGHTS HIGH, OUR SHOULDERS TO THE WHEEL AND OUR FEET ON THE GROUND.
"IN THE YEARS AHEAD) WE WILL NOT ONLY CAST OUR VISION TO THE YEARS AHEAD BUT ALSO CRITICALLY RE-EXAMINE OUR PRIORITIES AND STRATEGIES TO ENSURE THAT THE LEVEL OF OUR SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES REMAINS IN TUNE WITH THE NEEDS OF HONG KONG’S SOCIETY."
-----0-----
GOVT DECIDES NO CHARGE FOR AMBULANCE SERVICES
******
THAT, AS
AT PRESENT,
THE GOVERNMENT HAS DECIDED
SHOULD BE LEVIED FOR AMBULANCE SERVICES, INCLUDING NON REMOVALS, AFTER CONSIDERING THE RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE
NO CHARGE -EMERGENCY AMBULANCE
SERVICE REVIEW STEERING GROUP.
OF AMBULANCE
WHEN THF EXECUTIVE COUNCIL CONSIDERED THE REVIEW
SERVICES IN 1^7, ADVISED THE REVIEW STEERING GROUP TO EXAMINE THE FEASIBILITY OF CHARGING FOR NON-EMERGENCY REMOVALS AND TO REPORT BACK, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
THF REVIEW STEERING GROUP HAS EXAMINED THE QUESTION OF ABUSE AND MISUSE 01 AMBULANCE SERVICES, AND CONDUCTED '1HREE TO COLLECT STATISTICS ON NON-EMERGENCY REMOVALS, Ebi EC IALLY INVOLVING HOMES FOR THE AGED AND PRIVATE HOSPITAL SAID.
THE
SURVEYS THOSE
ESTABLISHMENTS,
HE
HAVING EXAMINED THE PRESENT ARGUMENTS FOR AND AGAINST CHARGING, CONCLUDED THAT NO CHARGE SHOULD BE INCLUDING NON-EMERGENCY REMOVALS.
AMBULANCE THE REVIEW LEVIED FOR
SERVICES AND THE
STEERING GROUP HAS AMBULANCE SERVICES,
THE FIRE
MISUSE OF
SUGGESTED THAT
MONITOR THE
GROUP HAS FURTHER SHOULD CONTINUE TO AMBULANCES, AND TO DRAW UP ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF, MEDICAL AND NURSING STAFF AND SOCIAL WORKERS FOR
THE STEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT
GUIDELINES
FOR AMBULANCE NON-EMERGENCY
REMOVALS.
-------0 --------
/19
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
- -
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS REZONING OF LAND USE ♦ t * ♦ t
THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT AND COMMITTEE OF THE TURN MUN DISTRICT BOARD WILL REZONING OF LAND USE IN AREA 16 AT ITS MEETING
DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT
DISCUSS THE PROPOSED TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
rHE AMENDMENTS PROPOSED BY THE TUEN MUN DEVELOPMENT OFFICE WILL MEAN THE RELOCATION OF A POTENTIALLY POLLUTING INDUSTRIAL AREA A AY FROM MAJOR RESIDENTIAL AREAS IN ORDER TO ELIMINATE FUTURE ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS.
IHE MEETING WILL DISCUSS \ PAPER CONCERNING THE EFFECTS OF EXHAUST GAS EMITTED FROM ROAD WASHING VEHICLES ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND ON VISIBILITY.
IHE COMMITTEE WILL XLSO LOOK INTO THE FEASIBILITY OF CONSTRUCTING ADDITIONAL RAMPS TO THE TWO FOOTBRIDGES LINKING SHAN KING ESTATE TO THE INDUSTRIAL AREA.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT AND DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW I FRIDAY) IN THE DISTRICT BOARD CONFERENCE ROOM. THIRD FLOOR. TUEN MUN GOVERNMENT OFFICES. TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
------0-------
MISFIRED FIREWORKS WARNING * ♦ t t t
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE URGED NOT TO TAMPER WITH UNKNOWN OBJECTS FOUND ON BEACHES OR ALONG THE COASTAL AREAS.
A TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICE SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT FOLLOWING A DISPLAY OF FIREWORKS OFF THE COAST OF TUEN MUN THIS EVENING. SONE MISFIRED SHELLS MIGHT BE WASHED ASHORE ALONG THE COASTAL AREAS OF TUEN MUN AND SOME MIGHT REACH OTHER BEACHES IN THE TERRITORY.
"THE BALL-SHAPED FIREWORKS COULD CAUSE GRAVE INJURIES TO NEARBY PERSONS IF SET OFF." HE WARNED.
THE SPOKESMAN URGED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO CALL THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY IF SIMILAR OBJECTS ARE SEEN ON BEACHES. AND NOT ATTEMPT TO TOUCH THEM.
THEY CAN ALSO CONTACT THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S MINES DIVISION ON TEL. 3-7332356 OR 3-7332358 FOR THE REMOVAL OF SUCH OBJECTS.
-----0------
/20........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
KWAI TSI NG SPORTS FESTIVAL TO START ON SATURDAY *****
THE MONTH-LONG KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL WILL. KICK OFF WITH A SOCCER. TOURNAMENT BETWEEN WOMEN TEAMS FROM GUANGDONG, TAIWAN AND KWAI TSING DISTR ICT ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 11) AT THE KWAI CHUNG SPORTS GROUND.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE THE REGIONAL
SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES. MR ADOLF HSU: DISTRICT OFFICER. MR PAUL TANG: DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR LEE WING-TAT: AND EXECUTIVE MEMBERS OF THE SPORTS FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE.
THE OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL ALSO FORM A TEAM TO TAKE PART IN A HALF-HOUR FOOTBALL MATCH AGAINST A TEAM OF DISC-JOCKEYS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE KWAI TSING SPORTS FESTIVAL TO BE HELD AT THE KWAI CHUNG SPORTS GROUND (NEAR KWAI FONG MTR STATION) ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 11).
THE CEREMONY WILL START AT 1.30 PM.
- - 0 - -
SOUTHERN DISTRICT CARNIVAL ON SUNDAY
*****
SOUTHERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS WILL BE TREATED TO FUN, GAMES AND ENTERTAINMENT AT A CARNIVAL AT THE ABERDEEN SPORTS GROUND IN WONG CHUK HANG ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12).
THE FOUR-HOUR CARNIVAL KILL START AT 1 PM. IT IS A HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH-LONG SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL, AND WILL INVOLVE GAME STALLS, ARTS AND CRAFTS STALLS. AND A VARIETY SHOW.
THE VARIETY SHOW WILL FEATURE PERFORMANCES BY FILM AND TELEVISION ARTISTS, INCLUDING L0 HOI-PANG. A SONG REQUEST PROGRAMME TO BE HOSTED BY DISC JOCKEY YU SIU-KEI, SINGING BY THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT CHILDREN’S CHOIR, AND A TAEKWONDO DEMONSTRATION BY MEMBERS OF THE WESTERN JUNIOR POLICE CALL.
A TOTAL OF 16 GAME STALLS WILL BE PROVIDED AT THE CARNIVAL BY THE DISTRICT’S SEVEN AREA COMMITTEES. GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND LOCAL ORGANISATIONS.
/IN ADDITION
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
- 21
IN ADDITION, THERE WILL BE DEMONSTRATIONS BY CRAFTSMEN OF HOW TO MAKE GRASSHOPPERS AND RIBBON FLOWERS DEMONSTRATIONS IN CALLIGRAPHY AND PAPER-FOLDING.
ARTISTS AND AS WELL AS
OTHER ATTRACTIONS WILL INCLUDE PALM READING, PORTRAIT SKETCHING AND CHINESE CHESS DEMONSTRATION STALLS.
ADMISSION IS FREE. TICKETS FOR STALL GAMES ARE AVAILABLE AT THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE AT ABERDEEN CENTRE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES IN STANLEY VILLAGE ROAD, WAH FU ESTATE AND LET TUNG ESTATE.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 5-540271.
------0-------
CLEANLINESS DRAWING COMPETITION IN SHAM SHUT PO * ♦ t » ♦
THE SHAM SHUT PO DISTRICT BOARD’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN WORKING GROUP IS ORGANISING A DRAWING COMPETITION ON NOVEMBER 26 TO PROMOTE CHILDREN’S AWARENESS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANLINESS.
THE COMPETITION WILL BE HELD AT THE MAPLE STREET PLAYGROUND FROM 1.15 PM TO 1.55 PM THAT DAY.
IT IS DIVIDED INTO TWO SECTIONS -- THE JUNIOR SECTION FOR THOSE AGED UNDER 10 AND THE SENIOR SECTION FOR THOSE AGED BETWEEN 10 AND 11.
APPLICATION FORMS \RE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT OFFICE AT 37 39 TONKIN STREET AND ITS SUB-OFFICES. THE FORMS SHOULD BE RETURNED BEFORE NOVEMBER 20.
PARTICIPANTS SHOULD REPORT TO THE ORGANISERS AT 1 PM ON NOVEMBER 26. THEY WILL HAVE TO BRING ALONG THEIR OWN DRAWING AND COLOUR MATERIALS, WHILE DRAWING PAPER WILL BE PROVIDED BY THE ORGANISERS.
A PRIZE PRESENTAITON CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT 2.30 PM ON THE SAME DAY. TO BE FOLLOWED BY PERFORMANCES BY YOUTH GROUPS.
GAMES STALLS WILL ALSO BE SET UP AT THE VENUE TO DRIVE HOME CLEAN HONG KONG MESSAGES.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
22
READING AWARD SCHEME FOR SECONDARY STUDENTS * * * * *
THE DEPUTY CHIEF INSPECTOR OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, MRS C.H. KONG, TODAY (THURSDAY) CALLED ON SECONDARY 1 TO 5 STUDENTS TO TAKE PART IN THE 1990 READING AWARD SCHEME HELD BETWEEN DECEMBER AND MAY.
SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE AT THE OFFICE OF THE BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ CLUBS ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG, MRS KONG SAID THE READING AWARD SCHEME AIMED TO HELP STUDENTS TO DEVELOP GOOD READING HABITS AND IMPROVE THEIR LANGUAGE SKILLS, AND TO PROMOTE THE USE OF LIBRARY RESOURCES.
THE 1990 AWARD SCHEME IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE BOYS' AND GIRLS’ CLUBS ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG AND THE LIBRARY SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.
PARTICIPANTS ARE REQUIRED TO READ NO FEWER THAN 10 BOOKS INCLUDING AT LEAST THREE ENGLISH AND THREE CHINESE BOOKS DURING THE PERIOD OF THE SCHEME. THEY HAVE TO COMPLETE A BOOK RECORD FORM AFTER READING EACH BOOK AND WRITE A REPORT IN EITHER ENGLISH OR CHINESE ON ONE OF THE BOOKS.
MRS KONG SAID SECONDARY 1 TO 3 STUDENTS IN THE JUNIOR SECTION OF THE CONTEST SHOULD SEND IN AN ESSAY TYPE REPORT IN 400 TO 700 WORDS, WHILE SECONDARY 4 AND 5 STUDENTS IN THE SENIOR SECTION SHOULD SENT ONE TN 700 TO 1,000 WORDS.
TROPHIES WILL BE PRESENTED TO WRITERS OF THE THREE BEST BOOK REPORTS IN BOTH THE CHINESE AND ENGLISH CATEGORIES OF THE JUNIOR AND SENIOR SECTIONS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE SCHOOLS.
THE TOP THREE WINNERS OF EACH CATEGORY WILL ALSO BE AWARDED BOOK COUPONS OF $2,000, $1,500 AND $1,000 RESPECTIVELY, WHILE 10 OTHER STUDENTS WHOSE REPORTS RECEIVE HIGH COMMENDATION WILL BE PRESENTED BOOK COUPONS WORTH $300 AND CERTIFICATES OF MERIT.
CERTIFICATES OF MERIT WILL ALSO BE PRESENTED TO ENTRANTS WHOSE BOOK REPORTS ARE COMMENDABLE.
STUDENTS ARE ADVISED TO SUBMIT THEIR ENTRIES TO THE LIBRARY SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT BEFORE MAY 25 NEXT YEAR. ALL ENTRIES WILL BE ASSESSED BY A PANEL OF JUDGES AND AWARDS WILL BE PRESENTED IN JULY NEXT YEAR.
MRS KONG SAID AS IN THE 1988 AND 1989 CONTESTS, THE WINNING BOOK REPORTS IN THE 1990 CONTEST WOULD BE PUBLISHED AND DISTRIBUTED TO ALL SECONDARY SCHOOLS FOR REFERENCE.
IN 1988, A TOTAL OF 25,000 STUDENTS FROM 186 SCHOOLS TOOK PART IN THE READING AWARD SCHEME. THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS WHO TOOK PART IN THE 1989 CONTEST WAS INCREASED TO 27,000 AND THE NUMBER OF SCHOOLS TO 194 .
ALSO ATTENDING THE PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY WAS THE GENERAL SECRETARY OF THE BOYS' AND GIRLS’ CLUBS ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG, MRS JUSTINA LEUNG.
- - 0 -
/23
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1989
- 23
ROVING EXHIBITION ON t t t t
EMPLOYMENT LAWS *
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL STAGE A MOBILE EXHIBITION IN KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES FROM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) TO PROMOTE PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF EMPLOYMENT LAWS.
ORGANISED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S LABOUR RELATIONS PROMOTION UNIT, THE EXHIBITION IS AIMED AT PUBLICISING AMONG Till'. PUBLIC THE' PROVISIONS OF THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE AND THE STATUTORY ENTITLEMENTS OF WORKERS.
THE EXHIBITION WILL DESCRIBE, IN SIMPLE LANGUAGE AND INTERESTING CARTOONS. PROVISIONS IN THE ORDINANCE OF INTEREST TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC. THESE INCLUDE REST DAY, STATUTORY HOLIDAY, PAID ANNUAL LEAVE. SICKNESS ALLOWANCE, MATERNITY PROTECTION AND END-OF-YEAR PAYMENT.
IT WILL ALSO FEATURE A QUIZ ON EMPLOYMENT LEGISLATION WITH A LUCKY DRAW FOR SUCCESSFUL PARTICIPANTS.
LABOUR DEPARTMENT STAFF WILL BE ON HAND TO ANSWER ENQUIRIES ON EMPLOYMENT AND LABOUR RELATIONS MATTERS.
THE EXHIBITION WILL FIRST BE HELD AT THE EMPIRE CENTRE IN TSIM SHA TSUI EAST FROM TOMORROW TO SUNDAY' I NOVEMBER 12), BEFORE MOVING TO BUTTERFLY" ESTATE IN TUEN MUN FROM NOVEMBER 17 TO 19 AND CHEUNG HONG ESTATE ON TSI NG YI FROM NOVEMBER 24 TO 26.
OPENING HOURS YRE FROM 9.30 AM TO 5.30 PM.
-------0---------
ILLEGAL STRUCTURE IN SHEUNG SHUI TO BE CLOSED t t t » *
CLOSE AN
58 SAN FUNG DEMOLISHED
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS' SEEKING TO STRUCTURE ON THE ROOF OVFR FLAT A, SECOND FLOOR, SHEUNG SHUI. NEW TERRITORIES SO THAT II CAN BE DANGER. TO THE OCCUPIERS AND TO THE PUBLIC.
ILLEGAL AVENUE, WITHOUT
ISSUED
THE CLOSURE FORMS PART OF AN EXERCISE UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE
IN
TO
ENFORCE AN ORDER
SEPTEMBER REQUIRING
THE
DEMOLITION OF THE STRUCTURI.
A NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A TIN DISTRICT COURT ON MARCH 8 NEX'I YEAR WAS PART OF THE STRUCTURE TODAY (THURSDAY).
CLOSURE ORDER
POSTED ON A
FROM THE SHA CONSPICUOUS
IT IS EXPECTED THAT DEMOLITION WILL
START ONCE THE CLOSURE
ORDER IS OBTAINED.
-------o---------
/2U........
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 9. 1989
- 24 -
URBAN CLEARWAYS IN TSI NG YI t t * * t
TH) TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 11). THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS OF ROADS IN TSING YI WILL BE DESIGNATED URBAN CLEARWAYS FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY:
* A SECTION OF THE ACCESS ROAD AT THE ENTRANCE OF THE TSING
YJ ESTATE BUS TERMINUS BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH TSING LUK
STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 70 METRES WEST OF THE SAME
JUNCTION: AND
* A SECTION OF THE ACCESS ROAD AT THE EXIT OF THE TSING YI
ESTATE BUS TERMINUS BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH TSING LUK STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 60 METRES WEST OF THE SAME JUNCTION.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED DUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.
------0--------
PLB BAN ZONE IN KWAI CHUNG t t t t *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 11). THE SECTION OF WING SHUN STREET IN KWAI CHUNG FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH ROAD 25/2 UNDERNEATH TSING TSUEN BRIDGE TO ITS JUNCTION WITH KWAI HEI STREET WILL BE DESIGNATED A PUBLIC LIGHT BUS BAN ZONE.
ALL PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES. EXCEPT THOSE WITH PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT. WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM ENTERING THE \REA 21 HOURS DAILY.
- - 0 -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG TEL: 5-8428777
FRIDAY, 'NOVEMBER 10, 19*9
................CONTENTS PAGE NO.
PRINCE OF WALES’ GOES WALKABOUT IN WESTERN...................... 1
PRINCE OF WALES’ VISITS A HONG'KONG LANDMARK ................... 2
GOVERNOR TO VISIT LONDON ....................................... 3
DECISION ON NATIONALITY PACKAGE STILL AWAITED: CS .............. 3
CONSULTANTS SOUGHT TO PREPARE CHEK LAP KOK AIRPORT MASTER PLAN .....................................................
INVESTMENTS IN MODERN MACHINERY AND 'PRODUCTION METHODS NECESSARY . I................................................... 5
MORE JOBS’FOUND’FOR’DISABLED PEOPLE ............................ 7
WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING’STUDY COMMISSIONED .................... 9
1.6M VOTERS ON GENERAL ELECTORAL ROLL .......................... 9
. ........ . i::; REMEMBRANCE DAY ON SUNDAY ..................................
EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS FOR SEPTEMBER RELEASED .............. 12
CANCER THE LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN HK........................ 18
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS PLAY SIGNIFICANT ROLE.................... 19
TWENTY-TWO LIFE SAVERS HONOURED ............................... 20
LAW UK DECLARED AS HISTORICAL BUILDING ........................ 21
FACTORIES FINED FOR DARK SMOKE EMISSIONS ...................... 22
/VENTILATION OF.......
VENTILATION OF FACTORY CANTEENS PUT UNDER CONTROL............... 23
MALAYSIAN DELEGATION CALLS ON DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE .... 24
j^EP HK CLEAN CARNIVAL IN EASTERN DISTRICT ..................... 24
KEEP HQNG KONG CLEAN RALLY FOR YOUTHS .......................... 25
WAN CHAI CAMPAIGN FOR ELDERLY STARTS TOMORROW ................. 26
MOCK DB MEETINGS TOMORROW IN SHAM SHUI PO.......A''............. 26
TICKETS FOR LYRICS COMPETITION'. STILL .AVAILABLE .............. 27
ROAD SAFETY QUIZ PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY TOMORROW .......... 28
CROSS COUNTRY MARATHON IN TSUEN WAN ON SUNDAY................... 29
MORE FESTIVAL ’ACTIVITIES FOR WONG TAI SIN RESIDENTS ........... 30
VITALITY PROGRAMME FOR CENTRAL AND WESTERN YOUTH. -------....... 31
AMS RECRUITMENT DAY IN EASTERN ................................. 32
CONTROL OF NEW ANTIBIOTIC ................................... 33
MUSICIANS ARRIVE FOR YOUTH STRING MUSIC FESTIVAL ............... 33
CONSTRUCTION OF SEWER, DREDGING WORKS PROPOSED ................. 34
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY............. 35
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SAI YING PUN ................. 36
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 10. 1989
PRINCE OF WALES GOES WALKABOUT IN WESTERN t » * * t
THE PRINCE OF WALES SAMPLED CHIU CHOW TEA AND EXPERIENCED SOME OF THE SIGHTS. SOUNDS AND SCENTS THAT MAKE UP THE MORE TRADITIONAL HONG KONG WHEN HE WALKED THROUGH WESTERN AND VISITED CHINESE MEDICINE AND DRIED FISH SHOPS TODAY (FRIDAY).
FOR HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS. WHO HAD JUST VISITED A JAGUAR CAR EXHIBITION IN THE LANDMARK, HIS WALKABOUT WAS A TRANSITION FROM ONE OF THE MOST MODERN TO ONE OF THE OLDEST PARTS OF HONG KONG.
HE VISITED AN AREA KNOWN AS THE NAM PAK HONG. WHICH HAS BEEN A BUSINESS CENTRE SINCE HONG KONG WAS FOUNDED AS A TRADING PORT IN 1842.
THE NAM PAK HONG IS A CLUSTER OF SHOPS ALONG A FEW NARROW STREETS OCCUPIED BY BONHAM STRANDS EAST AND WEST AND WING LOK STREET IN SHEUNG WAN.
THE NAME LITERALLY MEANS "SOUTH AND NORTH FIRMS" AND REFLECTS THE WIDE SCOPE OF BUSINESS IT HANDLES. STRETCHING FROM BEIJING AND TIENTSIN IN NORTH CHINA TO COUNTRIES IN SOUTH-EAST ASIA. THE FIRMS IN THESE OLD STREETS HAVE ACTED AS COMMERCIAL INTERMEDIARIES BETWEEN CHINA AND SOUTH-EAST ASIA. OVER TIME THEIR TRADE HAS EXTENDED TO EUROPE. AMERICA AND MOST PARTS OF THE WORLD.
THE NAM PAK HONG ASSOCIATION WAS FOUNDED IN 1868 IN BONHAM STRAND WEST. AIMED AT PROMOTING MEMBERS’ WELFARE AND MARKET PROSPERITY.
THE UNITY AND SOLIDARITY SHOWN BY THE HONGS IN THOSE DAYS STILL EXISTS TODAY WITH METHODS OF BUSINESS STILL RELYING VERY MUCH ON TRUST AND PERSONAL INTEGRITY.
ON ARRIVAL AT SHEUNG WAN HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS WAS GREETED BY MR. DONALD LIAO. SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS. WHO PRESENTED THE REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON). DAVID LAN AND THE DISTRICT OFFICER (CENTRAL AND WESTERN). MR STEPHEN FISHER.
THE PRINCE OF WALES SAW SOME OF THE HERBAL AND OTHER NATURAL MEDICINES THAT HAVE BEEN STOCK-IN-TRADE OF SHOPKEEPERS IN THE AREA SINCE ITS EARLIEST DAYS WHEN HE CALLED IN THE SHOP OF CHIU KWONG LEE CO LTD WHERE THE MANAGING DIRECTOR. MR CHIU KWONG-HOI OFFERED HIS ROYAL VISITOR TO TRY AND TASTE SOME KOREAN GINSENG AND CHIU CHOW TEA. MR CHIU ALSO EXPLAINED TO HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS SOME OF THE TRADITIONAL MEDICINES ON DISPLAY.
IN THE SHOP MR DAVID LAN PRESENTED THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD. MR. AMBROSE LAU HON-CHUEN. AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CHIU CHOW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. MR. LIU LIT-FOR.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS HAD FURTHER INSIGHT INTO CHINESE MEDICINE WHEN HE VISITED THE SHOP NEXT DOOR. PAK CHEONG TONG. WHERE MR LAN PRESENTED THE OWNER. MR. TSANG SAU-YUEN.
/THE PRINCE .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
2
THE PRINCE OF WALES DES VOEUX ROAD. AN AREA KNOWN IN AT TWO OF THEM, FOOK SHING PRODUCTION LTD.
THEN WALKED ALONG BON. AM STRAND WEST TO FOR ITS DRIED SEAFOOD SHOPS. AND CALLED HO IHK) LTD AND THE FORTUNATE SEAFOOD
AFTER HIS HOUR-LONG STROLL THROUGH WESTERN, HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS LEFT BY CAR FOR HMS TAMAR WHERE HE BOARDED HMY BRITANNIA.
AT NOON THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON BOARDED THE BRITANNIA TO BID FAREWELL TO HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS BEFORE THE ROYAL YACHT SAILED AT 2 PM AT THE END OF THE FOUR-DAY ROYAL TOUR.
-----0-----
PRINCE OF WALES VISITS A HONG KONG LANDMARK ♦ ♦ ♦ * t
JAGUAR CARS WHICH HAVE BEEN IN THE NEWS WITH TAKEOVER BIDS LATELY, CAME IN FOR SOME ROYAL ATTENTION WHEN THE PRINCE OF WALES VISITED AN EXHIBITION OF JAGUAR'S LATEST MODELS AT THE LANDMARK.
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS TRAVELLED FROM HMS TAMAR TO THE LANDMARK BY CAR ACCOMPANIED BY THE BRITISH TRADE COMMISSIONER TN HONGKONG, MR. P.W. HEAP, WHO ACCOMPANIED THE ROYAL VISITOR ON HIS TOUR OF ONE OF HONG KONG’S MOST POPULAR SHOPPING CENTRES.
COMPLETED IN 1983. THE LANDMARK IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST SUCCESSFUL COMMERCIAL COMPLEXES. A 47-LEVEL DEVELOPMENT CONSISTING OF TWIN 42-LEVEL OFFICE BLOCKS, GLOUCESTER TOWER AND EDINBURGH TOWER, AND AN ADJOINING FIVE-LEVEL OFFICE AND RETAIL BUILDING. LANDMARK EAST, IT HAS A FIVE-LEVEL. SKYLIGHTED RETAIL ATRIUM AT ITS CENTRE.
THE ATRIUM. A POPULAR MEETING PLACE WITH HONG KONG’S SHOPPERS, WAS THE VENUE FOR THE JAGUAR CAR EXHIBITION VISITED BY THE PRINCE OF WALES.
THE NEW MODELS ON SHOW INCLUDED A SOVEREIGN 4.0 SALOON, A DAIMLER, AN XJS CONVERTIBLE. A JAGUAR 2.9 LITRE AND AN XJS 3.6.
ON ARRIVAL AT THE DES VOEUX ROAD ENTRANCE TO THE BUILDING THE PRINCE OF WALES WAS RECEIVED BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON.
MR HEAP PRESENTED MR CHARLES MACKAY, CHAIRMAN OF INCHCAPE PACIFIC: MR STUART ROBINSON, CHIEF EXECUTIVE JAGUAR HONG KONG; VISCOUNT ERRINGTON, MANAGING DIRECTOR ItNCHCAPE CHINA LTD; MR ROGER PUTNAM, SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR OF JAGUAR CARS UK AND JAGUAR CARS UK’S DIRECTOR OVERSEAS SALES. MR NIGEL HESLOP.
THE CAR EXHIBITION IS JUST ONE IN A SERIES OF COMMERCIAL, MUSICAL AND CULTURAL EVENTS REGULARLY HELD AROUND THE ATRIUM'S SPARKLING FOUNTAIN.
/THAT ATRIUM’S
FRIDAY, NOVIMBER 10, 1989
- 3 -
THE ATRIUM'S RETAIL AREA IS THE HOME OF MANY FAMOUS INTERNATIONAL NAMES IN FASHION AND ACCESSORIES AND OTHER RETAIL TENANTS INCLUDE AIRLINES, RESTAURANTS AND A 930 SQUARE METRE (10,000 SQUARE FEET) SUPERMARKET.
WELL-KNOWN AS THE ATRIUM HAS BECOME, IT IS JUST A SMALL PART OF THE 113,500 SQUARE METRE (1.2 MILLION SQUARE FEET) OF PRIME COMMERCIAL, CENTRALLY AIR-CONDITIONED SPACE IN THE LANDMARK.
-------o----------
GOVERNOR TO VISIT LONDON *****
THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, WILL VISIT LONDON FROM NOVEMBER 15 TO 17.
THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THE VISIT IS TO BRIEF THE NEWLY APPOINTED FOREIGN SECRETARY, MR DOUGLAS HURD, ON THE LATEST SITUATION IN HONG KONG, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
IN ADDITION. THE GOVERNOR WILL MEET THE MINISTER OF STATE WITH RESPONSIBILITY FOR HONG KONG, MR FRANCIS MAUDE, AND HOLD DISCUSSIONS WITH OFFICIALS IN THE FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE. HE WILL ALSO CALL ON THE HOME SECRETARY, MR DAVID WADDINGTON.
SIR DAVID WILL LEAVE HONG KONG ON NOVEMBER 14 AND RETURN ON NOVEMBER 18.
--------o----------
DECISION ON NATIONALITY PACKAGE STILL AWAITED: CS
**»»»»
THE GOVERNMENT HAS NOT YET HAD A MINISTERIAL DECISION ON THE CONTENT OR THE TIMING OF THE NATIONALITY PACKAGE. THE CHIEF SECRETARY. STR DAVID FORD. SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER OPENING THE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DISABLED EXHIBITION. SIR DAVID SAID: "BUT WE ARE HOPEFUL THAT THE SORT OF PACKAGE WHICH I OUTLINED IN MY LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SPEECH WILL BE SOMETHING NEAR THE EVENTUAL PACKAGE WHICH COMES BACK FROM LONDON."
"WE'VE HAD THE VISIT FROM THE TEAM FROM THE FOREIGN OFFICE AND THE HOME OFFICE. BUT THAT IS ONLY AT OFFICIAL LEVEL. AND I MADE REFERENCE IN MY LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SPEECH TO THE RECOMMENDATIONS WHICH WE HAD MADE ON BEHALF OF THE HONG KONG ADMINISTRATION." HE SAID.
/ASKED TO ......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
4
ASKED TO COMMENT ON REPORTS THAT TWO MEMBERS OF THE CHINESE ALLIANCE FOR DEMOCRACY WERE REFUSED ENTRY TO HONG KONG. SIR DAVID SAID: "ALL 1 CAN SAY IS THAT WE ARE WORKING WITHIN OUR LAW IN THAT WE ARE ENTITLED AT ANY STAGE TO REFUSE ENTRY TO ANYONE COMING TO HONG KONG WHO DOES NOT HAVE THE RIGHT OF ABODE IN HONG KONG."
THE CHIEF SECRETARY POINTED OUT THAT HE WOULD NOT COMMENT ON INDIVIDUAL CASES.
"THERE IS A DIFFERENCE IN OUR LAW. BETWEEN LOCAL GROUPS WHO WISH TO SET THEMSELVES UP AS A SOCIETY OR AS A BUSINESS AND PURSUE A POLITICAL ACTIVITY AND A GROUP WHICH COMES FROM ABROAD.
"THERE IS. UNDER THE LAW. STRICTER CONTROL OF PEOPLE WHO WISH TO COME FROM ABROAD TO INDULGE IN POLITICAL ACTIVITY IN HONG KONG REGISTERING UNDER THE SOCIETIES OR THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE." SIR DAVID SAID.
HE ADDED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO ACT WITHIN THE LAW IN ALL SUCH CASES.
NOTING THAT IN EACH INDIVIDUAL CASE. DECISIONS WERE MADE ON THE MERITS OF THE CASE. THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID THERE WAS NO BLANKET POLICY AFFECTING PEOPLE COMING INTO HONG KONG.
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CONSULTANTS SOUGHT TO PREPARE CHEK t t t » *
LAP KOK AIRPORT MASTER PLAN *
THE GOVERNMENT IS INVITING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST IN A CONSULTANCY TO PREPARE A MASTER PLAN FOR THE NEW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK.
A NOTICE INVITING SUCH EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID ALL NECESSARY STEPS WERE NOW BEING TAKEN TO ENABLE THE: NEW AIRPORT TO BE OPENED IN EARLY 1997.
"THE MOST PRESSING AND IMMEDIATE TASK IS TO FINALISE THE AIRPORT MASTER PLAN AND LAYOUT AND TO UNDERTAKE RELATED ENGINEERING DESIGN AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STUDIES," HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD ALREADY RECEIVED A WIDE RANGE OF EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FROM MAJOR INTERNATIONAL AND LOCAL FIRMS AND CONSORTIA INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING IN THE AIRPORT PROJECT.
"THE PURPOSE OF TODAY'S GAZETTE NOTICE IS TO PROVIDE A FURTHER OPPORTUNITY FOR FIRMS WITH THE APPROPRIATE SKILLS TO EXPRESS AN INTEREST IN UNDERTAKING THE MASTER PLAN CONSULTANCY."
/HE POINTED .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 5 -
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS NOT SEEKING DETAILED PROPOSALS AT THIS STAGE.
"AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST NEED CONTAIN ONLY A STATEMENT OF THE FIRM’S RELEVANT EXPERTISE AND PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN DEALING WITH THE MATTERS TO BE COVERED BY THE MASTER PLAN CONSULTANCY.
"IN VIEW OF THE TIGHT TIMETABLE SET FOR THE OPENING OF THE AIRPORT TN 1997, CONSULTANTS WILL BE EXPECTED TO COMPLETE THE CONSULTANCY VERY QUICKLY AND HAVE THE NECESSARY SKILLS AND RESOURCES TO DO SO.
"THEY WILL NEED, INTER ALIA, TO REVIEW AIR TRAFFIC FORECASTS, FIX THE RUNWAY CONFIGURATION AND RECLAMATION SIZE, DESIGN THE AIRPORT LAYOUT AND TRANSPORT INTERFACES, CARRY OUT A COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT STUDY, AND PRODUCE AN OVERALL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME WITH COSTS," HE SAID.
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST SHOULD BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING TO THE DIRECTOR OF CIVIL AVIATION BEFORE NOON ON NOVEMBER 24 THIS YEAR.
"THE GOVERNMENT WILL THEN DRAW UP A SHORTLIST OF POTENTIALLY SUITABLE CONSULTANTS WHO WILL BE ASKED TO SUBMIT DETAILED PROPOSALS FOR CARRYING OUT THE CONSULTANCY ON THE BASIS OF A PRELIMINARY BRIEF," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"WE EXPECT THE CONSULTANCY TO START WORK IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1990 AND TO LAST NO MORE THAN 18 MONTHS.
"IN THE MEANTIME, THE GOVERNMENT WILL PROCEED URGENTLY WITH ALL NECESSARY LAND ACQUISITION, GAZETTAL PROCEDURES AND PRELIMINARY WORKS ON SITE," HE ADDED.
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INVESTMENTS IN MODERN MACHINERY AND ♦ » t » »
PRODUCTION METHODS NECESSARY ♦
HONG KONG’S CLOTHING INDUSTRY, WITH ITS GOOD REPUTATION AND CONNECTIONS ESTABLISHED OVER THE YEARS, WILL STILL BE ABLE TO HOLD A POSITION THAT COUNTS IN THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE, THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR JOHN CHAN, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
"HOWEVER, IN VIEW OF THE INCREASING COSTS AND HIGHLY COMPETITIVE OVERSEAS MARKET, CONTINUED GROWTH OF THE INDUSTRY IN THE LONG RUN WILL DEPEND ON WHETHER IT CAN MOVE TOWARDS DIVERSIFIED DEVELOPMENT, PRODUCE HIGH VALUE-ADDED PRODUCTS OF GOOD QUALITY AND FIRST CLASS DESIGN AND TAILORING, MEET MARKET DEMANDS AS WELL AS OPEN UP NEW MARKETS," HE SAID.
/MR CHAN
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1?89
MR CHAN WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF A CONFERENCE ON THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY.
HE SAID THAT IN ORDER TO COPE WITH CHANGING NEEDS WHICH WERE IN THE MEANTIME GETTING MORE AND MORE COMPLICATED, LOCAL MANUFACTURERS SHOULD INVEST IN MODERN MACHINERY AND PRODUCTION METHODS TO INCREASE LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY, SHORTEN DELIVERY TIME, HANDLE SMALL-SCALE PRODUCTION AND IMPROVE ON QUALITY.
MR CHAN, HOWEVER, POINTED OUT THAT INVESTING IN NEW MACHINERY AND PRODUCTION METHODS WAS NO EASY DECISION.
"MANUFACTURERS SHOULD CONSIDER CAREFULLY WHICH SYSTEM WILL BEST MEET THEIR DEMAND. BOTH MANAGEMENT AND STAFF SHOULD MAKE CONCERTED EFFORTS TO ENSURE SMOOTH OPERATION OF THE NEW SYSTEM TO ACHIEVE THE BEST EFFECT POSSIBLE," HE SAID.
MR CHAN NOTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT AND VARIOUS INDUSTRIAL SUPPORTIVE ORGANISATIONS HAD TRIED THEIR BEST TO HELP.
"THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL HAS RECENTLY SET UP A TEXTILE AND APPAREL DIVISION TO CO-ORDINATE SERVICES CURRENTLY PROVIDED FOR CLOTHING MANUFACTURERS AND TO DEVELOP NEW SERVICES.
"THE COUNCIL ALSO JOINED HANDS WITH THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY TO SET UP A CLOTHING TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATION CENTRE TO DEMONSTRATE TO MANUFACTURERS THE OPERATION OF MODERN SYSTEMS IN COMMERCIAL SETTING, TO INTRODUCE AND PROMOTE OTHER RELATED TECHNOLOGY AND THE ADVANTAGES OF ADOPTING NEW SYSTEMS," HE SAID.
HE ALSO PAID TRIBUTE TO MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT COMPANIES AND MACHINERY SUPPLIERS WHO MADE THEIR FAIR SHARE OF CONTRIBUTION BY PROVIDING A USEFUL TECHNOLOGY AND SERVICES.
THE CONFERENCE, ENTITLED "THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY IN THE 90’S: TECHNICAL PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS", IS STAGED TO PROVIDE A FORUM FOR MORE THAN 300 TECHNOLOGY VENDORS AND USERS TO DISCUSS THE SOLUTIONS TO VARIOUS TECHNICAL PROBLEMS AND INSPIRE CONFIDENCE IN THE APPLICATION OF MODERN TECHNOLOGY.
THE EVENT IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT, THE CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR INSTITUTE (HONG KONG BRANCH), THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY, THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL, THE TEXTILE INSTITUTE (HONG KONG SECTION), AND THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY TRAINING BOARD OF THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL.
- - 0 -
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 10. 1989
- 7 -
MORE JOBS FOUND FOR DISABLED PEOPLE t » » » »
SINCE THE INCEPTION OF THE GOVERNMENT’S SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAMME. THE NUMBER OF DISABLED PEOPLE WHO HAVE OBTAINED EMPLOYMENT WITH PRIVATE SECTOR ORGANISATIONS HAS INCREASED 10 TIMES FROM 113 IN 1980 TO OVER 1.100 IN 1988. THE CHIEF SECRETARY. SIR DAVID FORD. SAID TODAY <FRIDAY I.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE "EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DISABLED" EXHIBITION AT NEW WORLD PLAZA IN TSTM SHA TSUI. SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD ALSO PLAYED A SIGNIFICANT PART IN PROVIDING EMPLOYMENT FOR THE DISABLED. AND OVER 3.200 HANDICAPPED PEOPLE WERE MEMBERS OF THE CIVIL SERVICE.
"THE OBJECTIVE OF OUR REHABILITATION PROGRAMME IS TO ENABLE HANDICAPPED PEOPLE TO DEVELOP FULLY THEIR CAPABILITIES.
"TO THIS END. WE HAVE SOUGHT TO PROVIDE THE HANDICAPPED WITH GAINFUL EMPLOYMENT WHICH REPRESENTS A CONCLUDING STAGE IN THE REHABILITATION PROCESS." HE SAID.
SIR DAVID SAID AS HONG KONG BECAME A MORE PROSPEROUS AND ADVANCED SOCIETY. THE GOVERNMENT WAS PLACING INCREASING EMPHASIS ON REHABILITATION FOR THE DISABLED TO HELP THEM ATTAIN THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE DEGREE OF INTEGRATION INTO THE COMMUNITY.
"IN PROMOTING THE REHABILITATION PROGRAMME. WE HAVE WORKED VERY CLOSELY WITH THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR TO PROVIDE A WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE DISABLED IN TERMS OF MEDICAL CARE. COMPASSIONATE HOUSING. BOARDING HOMES. REHABUS SERVICES. SPECIAL EDUCATION. VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND SHELTERED WORKSHOPS.
"IN RECENT YEARS. WE HAVE ALSO MADE PROGRESS WITH TRAINING IN SPORTS. AND I AM PLEASED TO SEE THAT THE HONG KONG TEAM HAS BEEN DOING VERY WELL IN THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS." HE SAID.
SIR DAVID NOTED THAT THERE HAD BEEN SUGGESTIONS TN THE PAST THAT HONG KONG SHOULD CONSIDER LEGISLATING FOR THE COMPULSORY EMPLOYMENT OF THE DISABLED IN THE FORM OF A QUOTA SYSTEM.
"WE BELIEVE. HOWEVER. THAT EMPLOYMENT SHOULD RELATE TO WORK AB I LITA AND HAVE ADOPTED THE POLICY OF PROMOTING VOCATIONAL TRAINING FOR THE HANDICAPPED AND ENHANCING THE AWARENESS OF EMPLOYERS THROUGH PUBLIC EDUCATION AND VOLUNTARILY PARTICIPATION.
"THE POLICY HAS BEEN EFFECTIVE PROGRESS." HE SAID.
THE CHIEF SECRETARY THANKED THE PRIVATE SECTOR ORGANISATIONS WHICH REHABILITATION PROGRAMME.
AND WE HAVE MADE MEASURED
VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND THE
HAD CONTRIBUTED TO THE
/THE EXHIBITION, ........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 8 -
THE EXHIBITION. WHICH HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT DIVISION OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT. WILL RUN UNTIL NOVEMBER 16.
IN HIS ADDRESS AT THE OPENING CEREMONY. THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR. MR TONY HAMMOND. SAID DISABLED PERSONS WERE ABLE TO UNDERTAKE SUCCESSFULLY A WIDE RANGE OF JOBS FROM THE UNSKILLED TO THE PROFESSIONAL LEVELS WITH THE HELP OF SUITABLE VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND APPROPRIATE TECHNICAL AIDS.
MR HAMMOND SAID THE PROVISION OF A SELECTIVE PLACEMENT SERVICE FOR THE DISABLED HAD LONG BEEN RECOGNISED AS A MOST EFFECTIVE WAY OF HELPING THEM TO COMPLETE THE VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION PROCESS SUCCESSFULLY.
THE OPERATIONAL PHILOSOPHY OF THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT DIVISION. HE SAID. WAS BASED ON THREE MAIN PRINCIPLES:
* FIRSTLY. DISABLED PERSONS SHOULD ENJOY EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE ABLE-BODIED TO PERFORM SUITABLE WORK.
* SECONDLY. EMPLOYERS SHOULD BE FREE TO TAKE ON DISABLED WORKERS OF THEIR OWN CHOICE AND DISABLED PERSONS SHOULD LIKEWISE BE FREE TO ACCEPT JOBS OFFERED AS THEY CHOSE.
* THIRDLY. IN SELECTIVE JOB-MATCHING. EMPHASIS SHOULD BE PLACED ON THE WORKING ABILITIES OF DISABLED PERSONS RATHER THAN ON THEIR DISABILITIES.
’’BUT THESE PRINCIPLES WILL BE MEANINGLESS IF THEY ARE NOT ENDORSED BY THE WORKING COMMUNITY AND REINFORCED BY EMPLOYERS* READY ACCEPTANCE OF DISABLED WORKERS." HE STRESSED.
OBSERVING THAT PREJUDICE TOWARDS DISABLED PEOPLE WAS PRESENT IN ALMOST EVERY COMMUNITY. MR HAMMOND SAID THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WAS TRYING TO CHANGE THIS NEGATIVE ATTITUDE BY ORGANISING A VARIETY OF PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES ON A REGULAR BASIS.
"I VERY MUCH HOPF THAT. AS A RESULT OF THIS EXHIBITION. EMPLOYERS WILL BE APPRECIATIVE OF THE WORKING ABILITIES OF THE DISABLED AND WILL GIVE THEM A FAIR CHANCE TO SHOW WHAT THEY CAN DO." HE SAID.
THE EXHIBITION. WHICH IS BEING HELD FOR THE FOURTH YEAR AT THE NEW WORLD PLAZA. IS OPEN DAILY FROM 10 AM TO 6.30 PM UNTIL NOVEMBER 16.
VISITORS WILL BE ABLE TO SEE DIFFERENT EMPLOYMENT AIDS ON DISPLAY. THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE TO DISABLED PERSONS AND THE VARIETY OF JOBS TAKEN UP BY THEM IN VARIOUS TRADES. PARTICULARLY IN THE COMMERCIAL AND SERVICES SECTORS.
THERE ARE ALSO LIVE WORK DEMONSTRATIONS BY DISABLED WORKERS. MOCK JOB-MATCHING BY COMPUTER AND A COMPUTER QUESTION-AND-ANSWER QUIZ ON UNDERSTANDING DISABILITIES.
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/9 .......
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 9 -
WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING STUDY COMMISSIONED
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT HAS COMMISSIONED A CONSORTIUM OF CONSULTANTS TO CARRY OUT A 15-MONTH FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR THE PROPOSED WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING.
THE $17.7 MILLION AGREEMENT WAS SIGNED TODAY (FRIDAY) BETWEEN THE DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS. MR KWEI SEE-KAN. AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CONSORTIUM, MR RICHARD GARRETT.
THE CONSORTIUM WHICH INCLUDES MAUNSBLL CONSULTANTS ASIA LTD. ACER CONSULTANTS (FAR EAST) LTD. PARSONS BRINKERHOFF (ASIA) LTD. PYPUN-HOWARD HUMPHREYS LTD AND THE MVA CONSULTANCY. WILL COMMENCE WORK LATER THIS MONTH.
MR KWEI SAID THE STUDY WOULD IDENTIFY THE MOST SUITABLE ALIGNMENT AND CROSS-SECTION OF AN IMMERSED TUBE TUNNEL CROSSING THE HARBOUR BETWEEN THE PROPOSED WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION AT YAU MA TEI AND THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF HONG KONG ISLAND.
"RECOMMENDATIONS WILL BE MADE AS TO THE MOST SUITABLE INTERCHANGE ARRANGEMENTS BETWEEN THE TUNNEL AND THE EXISTING AND PLANNED ROAD SYSTEMS AT THE LANDFALLS." HE SAID.
CONSTRUCTION OF THE TUNNEL. WHICH FORMS THE SOUTHERN SECTION OF THE NEW ROUTE 3. IS PLANNED TO COMMENCE IN 1993 FOR COMPLETION PRIOR TO THE OPENING OF THE NEW AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK ON LANTAU ISLAND IN EARLY 1997.
THE STUDY WILL BE SUPERVISED BY THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT’S EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING SECTION WHICH WILL BE RETITLED WESTERN HARBOUR LINK SECTION. UNDER THE DIRECTION OF MR JOHN MICHAEL TURNER WHO WILL BECOME THE GOVERNMENT ENGINEER/WESTERN HARBOUR LINK.
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1.6M VOTERS ON GENERAL ELECTORAL ROLL ♦ ♦ * » t
THE FIRST PHASE OF THE
WHICH CLOSED ON SEPTEMBER 30 HAS
ANNUAL VOTER REGISTRATION EXERCISE
ATTRACTED 22,661 NEW APPLICANTS.
THIS IS OFFSET BY A DELETION OF 31,911 ENTRIES DUE TO DEATH, EMIGRATION AND LOSS OF CONTACT, RESULTING IN A NET REDUCTION OF 9,350 ELECTORS.
THE REGISTRATION FIGURE NOW STANDS AT 1,594,698, WITH 1,023,606 IN THE URBAN AREAS AND 571,092 IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
/WITH CONTINUED .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
10 -
WITH CONTINUED MOVEMENT OF POPULATION FROM THE URBAN AREAS THERE WAS A NET LOSS OF 11,339 ELECTORS TO NEW TOWNS AND DEVELOPING AREAS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE PROVISIONAL REGISTER OF ELECTORS IS AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION FROM TODAY (FRIDAY) TO NOVEMBER 20 AT DISTRICT OFFICES AND THE REGISTRATION AND ELECTORAL DIVISION.
"ELIGIBLE PERSONS WILL HAVE UP TO NOVEMBER 20 TO SUBMIT THEIR APPLICATIONS FOR INCLUSION IN THE FINAL REGISTER OF ELECTORS," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE REGISTRATION AND ELECTORAL DIVISION SAID.
ELECTORS ARE ALSO URGED TO REPORT ANY CHANGE OF RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS. FOR NOTIFICATIONS MADE BY DECEMBER 11, THE CHANGES WILL BE INCORPORATED IN THE FINAL REGISTER FOR PUBLICATION IN JANUARY 1990.
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HK CONCLUDES CULTURAL AGREEMENT WITH JAPAN * * * * *
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT IT HAS CONCLUDED A CULTURAL AGREEMENT WITH JAPAN FOR IMPLEMENTATION DURING THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR.
UNDER THE AGREEMENT, THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT WILL PROVIDE UP TO 41 MILLION YEN (ABOUT HKS2.27 MILLION) TO THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG FOR THE PURCHASE OF TEACHING AND AUDIO-VISUAL EQUIPMENT TO STRENGTHEN ITS JAPANESE STUDIES PROGRAMME.
THE AGREEMENT WAS CONTAINED IN NOTES EXCHANGED BETWEEN THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER. MR K.Y. YEUNG, AND THE JAPANESE CONSUL-GENERAL IN HONG KONG, MR YUKIO SATOH, AT A SIGNING CEREMONY HELD TODAY IN THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT.
AI,SO PRESENT WAS THE VICE-CHANCELLOR OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, PROFESSOR CHARLES KAO.
SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY, MR YEUNG NOTED THAT THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG HAD IN THE PAST RECEIVED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FROM THE JAPAN FOUNDATION AND THE JAPAN EXPOSITION COMMEMORATIVE FUND FOR THE PROMOTION OF JAPANESE STUDIES.
"THESE FUNDS HAVE BEEN USED TO GOOD EFFECT," HE SAID. "HOWEVER, JAPAN WOULD LIKE TO PROMOTE JAPANESE STUDIES MORE EXTENSIVELY HERE.
"TODAY, THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT HAS GENEROUSLY MADE AVAILABLE A FURTHER SUBSTANTIAL SUM.
"WE WARMLY WELCOME THIS AGREEMENT. THERE ARE GROWING LINKS BETWEEN HONG KONG AND JAPAN IN MANY FIELDS - IN TRADE, INVESTMENT AND IN TOURISM.
/"IT IS ......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
11
"IT IS BECOMING MORE AND MORE IMPORTANT TO HONG KONG THAT WE SHOULD CONTINUE TO PRODUCE GRADUATES WITH A BETTER KNOWLEDGE OF JAPAN AND THE JAPANESE LANGUAGE."
Al.SO SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY. MR SATOH SAID: "IT IS MY TASK TO PROMOTE FURTHER MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE PEOPLES OF HONG KONG AND JAPAN AND I HOPE THAT THIS GRANT WILL SERVE THIS PURPOSE."
PROFESSOR KAO WELCOMED THE AGREEMENT AND SAID HE WAS VERY GRATEFUL FOR THE GRANT FROM THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT.
HE SAID IT WAS FURTHER EVIDENCE OF THE CONTINUING INTEREST OF THE GOVERNMENT OF JAPAN IN SUPPORTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF JAPANESE STUDIES AT THE UNIVERSITY.
"THE ACQUISITION OF THE MODERN TEACHING AND AUDIO-VISUAL EQUIPMENT WOULD ENABLE JAPANESE STUDIES TO BE TAUGHT MORE EFFECTIVELY," HE ADDED.
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REMEMBRANCE DAY ON SUNDAY * » t t
THE REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT THE CENOTAPH IN STATUE SQUARE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12) IN HONOUR OF THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES ON ACTIVE SERVICE.
WREATHS WILL BE LAID BY HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES: THE GOVERNOR. SIR DAVID WILSON; THE COMMANDER BRITISH FORCES. MAJOR GENERAL PETER DUFFELL: THE CHIEF JUSTICE, SIR TI LIANG YANG; REPRESENTATIVES OF THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS; COMMONWEALTH COMMISSIONERS; THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, MR RAYMON ANNING; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL, MR GERRY FORSGATE: THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL. MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG, AND CHAIRMEN OF DISTRICT BOARDS.
THE CEREMONY WILL START AT 11 AM AND WILL END AT ABOUT 1 1.30 AM.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
A PRESS POSITION WILL BE SET UP TO THE WEST OF THE CENOTAPH.
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES SHOULD ASSEMBLE OUTSIDE ENTRANCE ONE OF
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BUILDING FACING STATUE SQUARE BY 10.15 AM
SHARP TO COLLECT BADGES FOR ADMISSION TO THE CEREMONY. GIS OFFICERS
WILL BE ON HAND TO ESCORT THEM TO THE PRESS POSITION.
PRESS PHOTOGRAPHERS AND TV CAMERAMEN SHOULD NOTE THAT TELEPHOTO LENSES MAY BE REQUIRED.
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES COVERING THE CEREMONY MAY BE SUBJECT TO SECURITY CHECKS.
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/12........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
12 -
EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS FOR SEPTEMBER RELEASED t * ♦ * *
TOTAL MERCHANDISE TRADE IN SEPTEMBER 1989, AT $96,885 MILLION. GREW BY 7 PER CENT TN VALUE TERMS COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1988, ACCORDING TO THE DETAILED FIGURES ON THE VALUE OF TRADE TN SEPTEMBER 1989 RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
DOMESTIC EXPORTS DECREASED BY 2 PER CENT TO $19,542 MILLION IN SEPTEMBER 1989. HOWEVER, RE-EXPORTS ROSE BY 16 PER CENT TO $80,435 MILLION. THUS BRINGING TOTAL EXPORTS IN SEPTEMBER 1989 TO $49,977 MILLION, WHICH REPRESENTED AN INCREASE OF 8 PER CENT OVER SEPTEMBER 1988. OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON. IMPORTS INCREASED BY 5 PER CENT TO $46,908 MILLION.
TOTAL MERCHANDISE TRADE IN JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1989. AT
$838,946 MILLION, INCREASED BY 19 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1988. OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCREASED BY 5 PER CENT TO $163,928 MILLION, WHILE RE-EXPORT INCREASED BY 32 PER CENT TO $254,788 MILLION. THUS, THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS INCREASED BY 20 PER CENT TO $418,716 MILLION. IMPORTS INCREASED BY 19 PER CENT TO $420,230 MILLION.
COMPARING SEPTEMBER 1989 WITH SEPTEMBER 1988, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE NETHERLANDS. THE UNITED KINGDOM, AUSTRALIA, THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY AND CHINA DECREASED BY 18 PER CENT, 17 PER CENT. 8 PER CENT. 7 PER CENT AND 2 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. HOWEVER, INCREASES WERE RECORDED FOR VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO TAIWAN. JAPAN AND SINGAPORE BY 38 PER CENT, 9 PER CENT AND 7 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE USA. THE LARGEST MARKET, SHOWED NO CHANGE.
IMPORTS FROM CHINA, THE USA AND TAIWAN INCREASED BY 23 PER CENT, 21 PER CENT AND 6 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN VALUI TERMS IN SEPTEMBER 1989 OVER SEPTEMBER 1988. HOWEVER. THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA, THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY, SINGAPORE. JAPAN AND THE UNITED KINGDOM DECREASED BY 24 PER CENT. 17 PER CENT. 12 PER CENT. 10 PER CENT AND 8 PER CENT RESPECITVELY.
RE-EXPORTS TO THE USA, THE UNITED KINGDOM, CANADA. THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY. SINGAPORE. JAPAN AND AUSTRALIA INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY IN VALUE TERMS IN SEPTEMBER 1989 OVER THE SAME MONTH IN 1988. BY 19 PER CENT. 46 PER CENT, 45 PER CENT, 33 PER CENT, 28 PER CENT. 22 FER CENT AND 17 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. HOWEVER. THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA DECREASED BY 12 PER CENT AND 2 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
COMPARING JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1989 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1988. THE MARKETS WITH SIGNIFICANT GROWTH IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCLUDED TAIWAN (+22 PER CENT), JAPAN (+21 PER CENT), CHINA (+19 PER. CENT) AND SINGAPORE ( + 15 PER CENT).
/DOMESTIC EXPORTS .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CANADA AND AUSTRALIA ALSO INCREASED BY 9 PER CENT AND 5 PER CENT IN VALUE TERMS. HOWEVER, THOSE TO THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY. THE NETHERLANDS AND THE UNITED KINGDOM DECREASED BY 4 PER CENT. 3 PER CENT AND 2 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE USA SHOWED NO CHANGE.
IMPORTS IN JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1989 FROM ALL MAJOR SUPPLIERS INCREASED IN VALUE TERMS COMPARED WITH THOSE TN THE SAME PERIOD IN 1988. SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN IMPORTS FROM ITALY (♦33 PER CENT). CHINA (+32 PER CENT). TAIWAN (+22 PER CENT), SINGAPORE (♦22 PER CENT) AND THE USA (+16 PER CENT).
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON. RE-EXPORTS TO THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY. THE USA. CANADA, THE UNITED KINGDOM, AUSTRALIA, JAPAN AND SINGAPORE INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY IN VALUE TERMS. BY 57 PER CENT, 50 PER CENT, 47 PER CENT, 46 PER CENT, 41 PER CENT, 34 PER CENT AND 29 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. INCREASES IN VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS WERE ALSO RECORDED FOR CHINA AND TAIWAN. EACH BY 20 PER CENT.
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 1989 WILL BE RELEASED IN EARLY DECEMBER.
THE CHANGES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO HONG KONG’S 10 MAJOR MARKETS ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 1.
COMPARING JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1989 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1988. NOTABLE INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE REGISTERED FOR. CLOTHING (BY $3,659 MILLION OR 8 PER CENT); OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING EQUIPMENT (BY $1,118 MILLION OR 11 PER CENT); TEXTILES (BY $1,076 MILLION OR 10 PER CENT) AND ARTIFICIAL RESINS AND PLASTIC MATERIALS, AND CELLULOSE ESTERS AND ETHERS (BY $841 MILLION OR 16 PER CENT).
HOWEVER, DECREASES WERE RECORDED FOR MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (BY $1,141 MILLION OR 5 PER CENT) AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $454 MILLION OR 4 PER CENT).
TABLE 2 ILLUSTRATES THE CHANGES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF THE MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
THE CHANGES IN IMPORTS FROM HONG KONG’S 10 MAJOR SUPPLIERS ARE SUMMARISED IN TABLE 3.
COMPARING JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1989 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1988, INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS WERE RECORDED IN ALL MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
THE MORE NOTABLE ONES WERE CLOTHING (BY $9,632 MILLION OR 44 PER CENT): TEXTILES (BY $9,089 MILLION OR 20 PER CENT); TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $6,964 MILLION OR 31 PER CENT); AND MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (BY $6,840 MILLION OR 34 PER CENT).
/HOWEVER, DECREASES ........
I
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
14
HOWEVER, DECREASES WERE RECORDED FOR ARTIFICIAL RESINS AND PLASTIC MATERIALS, AND CELLULOSE ESTERS AND ETHERS (BY $1,742 MILLION OR 11 PER CENT): AND RAW HIDES. SKINS AND FURSKINS (BY $228 MILLION OR 13 PER CENT).
TABLE 4 ILLUSTRATES THE CHANGES IN IMPORTS OF THE MAJOR
COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
THE CHANGES IN RE-EXPORTS TO HONG KONG’S 10 MAJOR MARKETS ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 5.
COMPARING JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER 1989 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1988. NOTABLE INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS WERE REGISTERED FOR MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (BY $10,304 MILLION OR 51 PER CENT); CLOTHING (BY $9,725 MILLION OR 56 PER CENT): TEXTILES (BY $7,329 MILLION OR 30 PER CENT) AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $6,521 MILLION OR 50 PER CENT).
HOWEVER. DECREASES WERE RECORDED FOR ARTIFICIAL RESINS AND PLASTIC MATERIALS. AND CELLULOSE ESTERS AND ETHERS (BY $1,020 MILLION OR 14 PER CENT): AND RAW HIDES, SKINS AND FURSKINS (BY $135 MILLION OR 21 PER CENT).
TABLE 6 ILLUSTRATES THE CHANGES IN RE-EXPORTS OF THE MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
DETAILED STATISTICS ON TRADE VALUE BY COMMODITY AND BY COUNTRY ARE PUBLISHED IN TRADE STATISTICS REPORTS.
THE SEPTEMBER 1989 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG TRADE STATISTICS SUMMARY" WILL BE ON SALE AROUND NOVEMBER 15 AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE. GPO BUILDING. CONNAUGHT PLACE. CENTRAL. AT $9.50 PER COPY.
A MORE COMPREHENSIVE REPORT. "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE", WITH DETAILED ANALYSES ON IMPORTS. EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS IN SEPTEMBER 1989 WILL BE AVAILABLE AT END-NOVEMBER AT $17.50 PER COPY.
ENQUIRIES REGARDING REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION TO THESE REPORTS MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING. 1 BATTERY PATH. HONG KONG (TEL. 5-8428802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE STATISTICS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL. 5-8234915).
/TABLE 1: .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
TABLE 1: MAJOR MARKET DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO SEP 1989 (HKD MN.) 10 MAJOR MARKETS
SEP 89 OVER SEP 88 (%) JAN-SEP 1989 (HKD MN.) JAN-SEP OVER JAN-SEP (%) 89 88
U.S.A. 6.832 ♦ 52.061 *
CHINA 3.693 - 2 31.963 ♦ 19
F.R. OF GERMANY 1, 182 - 7 11,443 - 4
U.K. 1,185 - 17 10,811 - 2
JAPAN 1.305 + 9 9,591 ♦ 21
CANADA 520 ♦ 4,761 + 9
SINGAPORE 516 + 7 4.267 4 15
NETHERLANDS 336 - 18 3,479 - 3
AUSTRALIA 349 - 8 3.104 4- 5
TAIWAN 398 ♦ 38 3,063 4- 22
♦ DENOTES LESS THAN 0.5 PER CENT
TABLE 2: DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF THE MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION SEP 1989 (HKD MN . ) SEP 89 OVER SEP 88 (%) JAN-SEP 1989 (HKD MN.) JAN-SEP OVER JAN-SEP (%) 1 89 ' 88
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 6.528 + 7 51.291 4 8
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES. TOYS. GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 2,464 — 17 20.867 - 5
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS. EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS. WATCHES AND CLOCKS 1.754 ♦ 2 14,285 4 5
/ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 16 -
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY. APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRIAL PARTS THEREOF 1.509 - 1 13,310 4 4
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS. MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 1.470 4 13 12,269 4 10
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 1.384 - 16 11.984 - 4
TABLE 3: IMPORTS FROM 10 MAJOR SUPPLIERS
MAJOR SUPPLIER SEP 1989 (HKD MN.) SEP 89 OVER SEP 88 (%) JAN-SEP 1989 (HKD MN.) JAN-SEP 89 OVER
JAN-SEP (%) 88
CHINA 17,811 4 23 142.979 4 32
JAPAN 7,517 - 10 71.239 4 8
TAIWAN 4.097 4 6 38,400 4 22
U.S.A. 4.376 4 21 35,097 4 16
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 1,838 - 24 19.845 4 7
SINGAPORE 1.610 - 12 16.258 4 22
F.R. OF GERMANY 1,023 - 17 10,299 4 9
U.K. 985 - 8 9.801 4 4
ITALY 698 4 1 7,595 4 33
SWITZERLAND 655 - 3 7,051 4 7
TABLE 4: IMPORTS OF THE MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION SEP 1989 (HKD MN.) SEP 89 OVER SEP 88 (%) JAN-SEP 1989 (HKD MN.) JAN-SEP OVER JAN-SEP (%) 89 88
TEXTILE YARN. FABRICS. MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 5.907 4 13 54.230 4 20
/ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 17 -
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY.
APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES. AND ELECTRICAL PARTS
THEREOF 4.610 - 7 42.703 + 14
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING
ACCESSORIES 4.451 + 45 31,772 + 44
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS
AND EQUIPMENT 3,418 * 29,175 + 31
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED
ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY
CARRIAGES. TOYS. GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 3.641 +29 27.231 +34
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES. OPTICAL GOODS.
WATCHES AND CLOCKS * DENOTES LESS THAN 2.256 0.5 PER CENT 1 21,638 + 12
TABLE 5: RE- EXPORTS TO 10 MAJOR MARKETS
MAJOR MARKET SEP 1989 (HKD MN.) SEP 89 OVER SEP 88 (%) JAN-SEP 1989 (HKD MN.) JAN-SEP OVER JAN-SEP (%) 89 88
CHINA 8.114 - 12 78,346 + 20
U.S.A. 7,412 + 49 51.787 + 50
JAPAN 2.089 + 22 16.359 + 34
TAIWAN 1 .253 + 4 12.160 + 20
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 977 - 2 10.008 + 14
F.R. OF GERMANY 1 . 130 + 33 9.356 + 57
SINGAPORE 918 + 28 7,993 + 29
U.K. 908 + 46 6.615 + 46
AUSTRALIA 528 + 17 4.220 + 41
CANADA 515 + 45 3.946 + 47
/TABLE 6: .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 18 -
TABLE 6: RE-EXPORTS OF THE MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY SEP SEP 89 JAN-SEP JAN-SEP 89
DIVISION 1989 OVER 1989 OVER
SEP 88 JAN-SEP 88
(HKD MN.) (%) (HKD MN.) (%)
TEXTILE YARN. FABRICS. MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 3.645 + 22 31.727 4- 30
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES. TOYS. GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 4.750 4- 47 30,343 4- 51
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 3,882 4- 62 27.065 4- 56
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY. APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES. AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 2,765 — 1 24,882 4- 24
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 2.519 4- 24 19.579 4- 50
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS. EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES. OPTICAL GOODS. WATCHES AND CLOCKS 1.110 4- 22 9.715 + 34
-------0----------
TIH LEADING CAUSE 01 DEATH IN ME . ♦ t * .
Till' SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MR T. II. CHAU, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT f XMUEfi VAS THF LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN HONG KONG, ACCOUNTING FOR ABOUT 30 DEI? 'ENT OF Till TERRITORY’S TOTAL MORTALITY.
o\ER Till PAST DF< ADE. THE NUMBER OF DEODI.F WHO DIED OF CANCER IN HONG KONG HAS INCREASED FROM 5,978 IN 1978 TO ft,177 IN 1988." HE SA I D.
MI? CHAI WAS SUI Al.ING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE U.I.C.C.
REGIONAL VORIiSIIOU ON ' ' ANUI I.' EDUCATION AT THF WORKPLACE’ .
/MR CHAU ........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 19 -
MR CHAU POINTED OCT THAT MANY CANCERS DETECTED AND TREATED AT AN EARIY STAGE AND THAT PREY ENT XBI.E.
WERE
SOME
CURABLE WHEN
WERE LARGELY
HE; STRESSED THE IMPORTANCE OF AN ENHANCED ( \NCER EDUCATION PROGRAMME IN HELPING TO LOWER THE MORTALITY RATE ATTRIBUTABLE TO THIS DISEASE. XND NOTED THYT THE HONG KONG ANTI-CANCER SOCIETY HAD BEEN WORKING HARD TO PROMOTE < AN(’ER EDUCATION.
"LN SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR. AFTER A REVIEW OF STRATEGY. THE SOCIETY DECIDED TO TAKE Illi MORI AGGRESSIVE' APPROACH OF BRINGING THE MESSAGE DIRECTLY TO WHERE TUI. PEOPLE LIVE AND WORK THROI GH A SERIES OF ROVING EXHIBITIONS IN PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES AND FACTORIES." HE SAID.
'MANY PEOPLE SELDOM TAKE THE INITIATIVE TO SEEK HEALTH MESSAGE." HE SAID.
MR ( HAU SAID Till THREE-DAY REGIONAL WORKSHOP WOULD PROVIDE AN IDEAL OPPORTUNITY FOR Till SHARING OF EXPERIENCE AMONG DELEGATES. AND A FORUM FOR THE EXCHANGE OF VIEWS AND KNOWLEDGE.
- 0----------
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS PLAY SIGNIFICANT ROLE *****
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS WHICH LIE OUTSIDE THE MAIN STREAM OF THE LOCAL EDUCATION SYSTEM HAVE A VERY SIGNIFICANT ROLE TO PLAY. THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION. MR Y.T. LI. SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS WENT A LONG WAY IN SUPPORTING THE CONTINUED PRESENCE IN HONG KONG OF A NON-CHINESE AND EXPATRIATE COMMUNITY WHICH HAD CONTRIBUTED SO MUCH TO MAKING HONG KONG THE MAJOR INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL CENTRE THAT IT WAS TODAY. MR LI SAID.
THE DIRECTOR WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 1989 CONFERENCE OF THE CENTRAL EAST ASIA REGION COUNCIL OF OVERSEAS SCHOOLS. AT THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL.
APART FROM ENRICHING AND ADDING TO THE DIVERSITY OF THE LOCAL EDUCATION SYSTEM. HE SAID INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS ALSO HELPED TO RELIEVE THE PRESSURE ON THE PUBLIC SECTOR OF EDUCATION IN THE PROVISION OF PLACES FOR CHILDREN INCLUDING CHILDREN OF RETURNED EMIGRANTS. WHO WERE UNABLE TO ATTEND LOCAL SCHOOLS DUE TO LANGUAGE. CULTURAL BACKGROUND OR OTHER REASONS.
"AT A TIME WHEN HONG KONG IS SUFFERING FROM A BRAIN-DRAIN PROBLEM. THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS CANNOT BE OVER-EMPHASISED." HE SAID.
/CITING THE .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
20 -
CITING THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL AS THE EXAMPLE OF THE GENERALLY KNOWN "INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS". MR LI SAID IT WAS ONE OF TWO SCHOOLS IN HONG KONG WHICH OFFERED AN AMERICAN TYPE OF EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN PLANNING TO PROCEED OR RETURN TO THE UNITED STATES.
OTHER INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS ALSO OFFERED CURRICULA DESIGNED FOR SPECIFIC NATIONAL OR LINGUISTIC GROUPS.
THESE INCLUDED THE GERMAN-SWISS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, FRENCH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL. HONG KONG JAPANESE SCHOOL. INDONESIAN SCHOOL. NORWEGIAN SCHOOL AND SEVERAL OTHERS.
"THERE ARE ALSO SCHOOLS OPERATED BY THE ENGLISH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION (THE ESF SCHOOLS) WHICH PROVIDE A BRITISH TYPE OF EDUCATION PRIMARILY FOR CHILDREN WHOSE FIRST LANGUAGE IS ENGLISH." MR LI SAID.
MR LI NOTED THAT. AT PRESENT. ONLY THE ESF SCHOOLS WERE SUBSIDISED BY THE GOVERNMENT AND ALL THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS WERE OPERATED AS PRIVATE SCHOOLS.
TO THIS END. HE SAID. THE GOVERNMENT INTENDED TO INTRODUCE A DIRECT SUBSIDY SCHEME WITHIN THE NEXT TWO YEARS OR SO UNDER WHICH PRIVATE SCHOOLS THAT SATISFIED THE REQUIRED CONDITIONS WOULD BE GIVEN A GOVERNMENT SUBSIDY ON A PER CAPITA BASIS.
"IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR POSITIVE CONTRIBUTION TO THE EDUCATION SYSTEM IN HONG KONG. WE WOULD WELCOME APPLICATIONS FROM THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS," MR LI SAID.
--------0 ---------
TWENTY-TWO LIFE SAVERS HONOURED t * * » t
TWENTY-TWO MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY WERE COMMENDED TODAY (FRIDAY) FOR THEIR COURAGE IN SAVING 54 PEOPLE FROM DROWNING.
THEY WERE EACH PRESENTED THE RESCUE STAR. THE HIGHEST HONOUR FOR WATER RESCUE, BY THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, DR LAWRENCE LEE.
SPEAKING AT THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY HELD AT THE HONG KONG LIFE GUARD CLUB (HKLGC) IN REPULSE BAY. DR LEE SAID THE COMMUNITY WAS PROUD OF THE LIFE SAVERS* SELFLESS AND GALLANT ACTS. "THEY HAVE SET A GOOD EXAMPLE FOR US ALL." HE ADDED.
THE ANNUAL AWARD WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1962 TO ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO PARTICIPATE IN LIFE-SAVING OPERATIONS AT SEA. SINCE THEN. 787 PEOPLE HAD RECEIVED RESCUE STARS BEFORE TODAY'S CEREMONY.
/THIS YEAR .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
THIS YEAR RESCUE STARS WERE AWARDED TO THREE FISHERMEN. TWO PRIVATE CITIZENS AND 17 LIFE GUARDS FROM THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT (RSD). THE OCEAN PARK. THE JUBILEE SPORTS CENTRE AND THE HONG KONG SEA SCHOOL.
ONE OF THE RECIPIENTS, MR CHEUNG WAH, A FISHERMAN, WAS NAMED LIFE SAVER OF THE YEAR AND WAS PRESENTED THE TIEN HAU TROPHY.
ON JANUARY 13. MR CHEUNG BRAVED ROUGH SEAS TO RESCUE 10 CREW MEMBERS FROM A SINKING SHRIMP TRAWLER WHICH CAUGHT FIRE OFF SHANTOU IN THE SOUTH CHINA SEA.
AS MR CHEUNG WAS AT SEA TODAY. HIS FATHER RECEIVED THE AWARD ON HIS BEHALF.
ANOTHER FISHERMAN, MR CHENG AH-FOOK, RISKED HIS LIFE IN SAVING EIGHT CREW MEMBERS FROM A GILL NETTER WHICH SANK IN WATERS SOUTHWEST OF THE LEMA ISLANDS IN EARLY SEPTEMBER.
MR CHUNG KUEN-HONG AND MR WONG KAT-LEUNG. BOTH RSD LIFE GUARDS AT LIDO BEACH IN CASTLE PEAK. RESCUED NINE PEOPLE AND SEVEN PEOPLE RESPECTIVELY DURING THE SWIMMING SEASON THIS YEAR.
THE HKLGC PROVIDED VOLUNTEER LIFE GUARD SERVICES ON 5.500 OCCASIONS AT BATHING BEACHES. SWIMMING POOLS AND VARIOUS WATER RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY SOCIAL BODIES, AND A TOTAL OF 735 PEOPLE WERE SAVED FROM DROWNING.
THE CLUB CONTINUED TO PROMOTE YOUTH PROGRAMMES WITH 5,700 PEOPLE PARTICIPATING IN ITS SWIMMING COMPETITIONS, POSTER DESIGN CONTEST, PARADES AND TRAINING SESSIONS ON LIFE SAVING, CANOEING AND ACUPRESSURE.
"THESE PROGRAMMES AND SERVICES NOT ONLY CONSTITUTE VERY MEANINGFUL WORK. BUT ALSO ARE VALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE COMMUNITY. I WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE THE CLUB FOR SUCH EXCELLENT ACHIEVEMENTS.” DR LEE SAID.
- 0 - -
LAW UK DECLARED AS HISTORICAL BUILDING ♦ ♦ t * »
LAW UK. AN OLD VILLAGE HOUSE IN CHAI WAN. WAS DECLARED A HISTORICAL BUILDING TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE ANTIQUITIES AUTHORITY UNDER THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS ORDINANCE.
SITUATED ON A SITE BOUNDED BY CHAI WAN ROAD IN THE WEST AND KUT SHING STREET IN THE EAST, THE ”UK” (MEANING HOUSE) WAS ORIGINALLY OWNED BY A FAMILY BY THE NAME OF LAW. AND IS THEREFORE KNOWN AS ”LAW UK” .
/A TITLE
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
22 -
A TITLE DEED DATED THE 32ND YEAR OF THE EMPEROR QIAN LONG (1768) WAS SAID TO BE RELATED TO THE PROPERTY. THIS WOULD SUGGEST THAT THE HOUSE WAS MORE THAN 200 YEARS OLD.
UNTIL THE LATE 1940’S CHAI WAN WAS A FARMING AREA WITH SEVERAL LONG-ESTABLISHED HAKKA VILLAGES WHICH HAVE SINCE BEEN CLEARED FOR DEVELOPMENT. NOW LAW UK IS THE ONLY ONE OF THE ORIGINAL VILLAGE HOUSES LEFT INTACT IN CHAI WAN.
THE HOUSE ITSELF IS A TYPICAL MEDIUM-SIZED HAKKA-STYLE STRUCTURE WITH A MAIN ROOM. SIDE ROOMS STONE FOOTINGS AND GRANITE DOOR-FRAME, AND A TILED ROOF.
IN VIEW OF THE HISTORICAL INTEREST OF THE HOUSE. THE GOVERNMENT DECIDED TO RESUME THE BUILDING AND CONVERT IT INTO A FOLK MUSEUM, WHILE THE SURROUNDING AREA WAS RESUMED AT THE SAME TIME FOR DEVELOPMENT INTO A REST GARDEN. BOTH OF THESE WILL BE MANAGED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL.
RESUMPTION AND CLEARANCE OF THE SITE TOOK PLACE IN 1987. RESTORATION OF THE OLD HOUSE STARTED LAST YEAR AND HAS BEEN COMPLETED.
PROPERLY RESTORED IN THE TRADITIONAL LOCAL STYLE, LAW UK IS AN ATTRACTIVE BUILDING AND AN AUTHENTIC EXAMPLE OF EARLY HONG KONG VILLAGES.
------0-------
FACTORIES FINED FOR DARK SMOKE EMISSIONS » ♦ * * ♦
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) TODAY (FRIDAY) REMINDED ALL FACTORY OWNERS TO PROPERLY MAINTAIN AND OPERATE THEIR FURNACES AND CHIMNEYS TO PREVENT DARK SMOKE EMISSIONS.
A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT A FACTORY IN TSUEN WAN HAD BEEN FINED A TOTAL OF $12,500 FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE DARK SMOKE OFFENCES AND A DYEING FACTORY IN KWAI CHUNG HAD BEEN PENALISED $8,000 FOR ONE OFFENCE. THE PENALTIES WERE IMPOSED IN THE TSUEN WAN MAGISTRACY ON WEDNESDAY.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE MAXIMUM FINE UNDER THE PRESENT AIR POLLUTION CONTROL (SMOKE) REGULATIONS WAS $5,000.
THE PENALTY OF $8,000 IN THE SECOND CASE HAD INCLUDED COURT COSTS OF $3,000.
IN THE PAST TWO MONTHS. FIVE OTHER CASES INVOLVING EMISSION OF DARK SMOKE CASES WERE HEARD IN THE TSUEN WAN MAGISTRACY. CONVICTIONS WERE ENTERED IN ALL CASES AND THE FINES IMPOSED. INCLUDING COSTS. EXCEEDED $5,000.
/THE SPOKESMAN .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 25 -
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE MAGISTRATE HAD REMARKED THAT THE PRESENT MAXIMUM FINE APPEARED TO HAVE LOST ITS DETERRING EFFECT AND THAT THE COURT WOULD TAKE A SERIOUS VIEW OF SIMILIAR REPETITIVE OFFENCES.
AT PRESENT. THE SPOKESMAN ADDED. THE EPD WAS CONSIDERING PROPOSING AMENDMENTS TO THE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL (SMOKE) REGULATIONS WITH A VIEW OF TIGHTENING THE DARK SMOKE EMISSION LIMIT AS WELL AS RAISING THE MAXIMUM FINE FOR THE OFFENCE.
THE AIR CONTROL GROUP OF THE EPD HAD BEEN MAKING GREAT EFFORTS IN THE CONTROL OF AIR POLLUTION IN TSUEN WAN AND KWAI TSING DISTRICTS SINCE THE DECLARATION OF THE TSUEN WAN-KWAI CHUNG AIR CONTROL ZONE IN JANUARY 1987. THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
LAST YEAR. A TOTAL OF 97 CONVICTIONS WERE ENTERED FOR DARK SMOKE EMISSIONS WITHIN THIS AIR CONTROL ZONE. THE FINES IMPOSED RANGED FROM J1.500 TO S5.000.
-----0------
VENTILATION OF FACTORY CANTEENS PUT UNDER CONTROL t » « » *
THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND MUNICIPAL SERVICES (AMENDMENT OF SECOND SCHEDULE) ORDER 1989 WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY) TO INCLUDE FACTORY CANTEENS IN THE LIST OF SCHEDULED PREMISES UNDER THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND MUNICIPAL SERVICES ORDINANCE.
"THIS WOULD PUT THE VENTILATION OF FACTORY CANTEEN PREMISES UNDER THE SAME STATUTORY CONTROLS AS OTHER SCHEDULED PREMISES LIKE RESTAURANTS. DANCE HALLS, FUNERAL PARLOURS, CINEMAS AND THEATRES, UNDER THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND MUNICIPAL SERVICES ORDINANCE AND THE VENTILATION OF SCHEDULED PREMISES BY-LAWS MADE UNDER IT," THE HYGIENE ADVISER OF THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH. DR MOHAMED ALI. SAID.
HE STRESSED THAT THESE CONTROLS WERE NECESSARY TO SAFEGUARD PUBLIC HEALTH AND TO ENSURE FIRE SAFETY WHERE A LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE WERE GATHERED IN A CONFINED AREA FOR CERTAIN ACTIVITIES.
"PREVIOUSLY. VENTILATING SYSTEMS OF FACTORY CANTEENS. NOT BEING SCHEDULED PREMISES, WERE CONTROLLED UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE AND THE BUILDING (VENTILATING SYSTEMS) REGULATIONS MADE UNDER IT. THEY SERVE MAINLY FOR THE GENERAL PURPOSE OF ENSURING FIRE SAFETY IN SUCH BUILDINGS WHERE VENTILATING SYSTEMS ARE INSTALLED.
"THE AMENDMENT ORDER WHICH COMES INTO IMMEDIATE EFFECT TODAY REQUIRES ALL FACTORY CANTEENS TO MEET THE SPECIFIED VENTILATION STANDARD OF PROVIDING AN AMOUNT OF 17 CUBIC METRES PER HOUR OF OUTSIDE AIR PER PERSON INSIDE THE CANTEEN," HE SAID.
/THE VENTILATING........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
THE VENTILATING SYSTEMS WOULD ALSO BE SUBJECT TO COMPULSORY ANNUAL INSPECTION.
"OFFENDERS ON CONVICTION ARE LIABLE TO THE REVOCATION OF LICENCES OR A MAXIMUM FINE OF 85,000 AND THREE MONTHS' IMPRISONMENT.
"HOWEVER, A GRACE PERIOD OF 12 MONTHS WILL BE GIVEN TO EXISTING FACTORY CANTEEN LICENSEES TO ENABLE THEM TO COMPLY WITH THE NEW REQUIREMENTS," DR ALI SAID.
MALAYSIAN DELEGATION CALLS ON DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE * * * * »
THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, TODAY (FRIDAY) RECEIVED MEMBERS OF THE MALAYSIAN NATIONAL WELFARE COUNCIL WHO ARE ON A THREE-DAY VISIT IN HONG KONG.
THEY EXCHANGED VIEWS ON THE VARIOUS ASPECTS OF SOCIAL WELFARE.
WHILE IN HONG KONG, THE DELEGATION VISITED A NUMBER OF ORGANISATIONS AND FACILITIES RELATING TO SOCIAL SERVICES.
THE GROUP IS ONE OF TWO OVERSEAS DELEGATIONS VISITING HONG KONG TO OBTAIN FIRST-HAND INFORMATION ON THE TERRITORY’S SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES WHICH HAVE TAKEN A GREAT STRIDE IN THE PAST DECADE.
EARLIER IN THE WEEK, ANOTHER DELEGATION COMPRISING SEVEN OFFICIALS OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN GOVERNMENT ALSO CALLED ON THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
- 0 -
KEEP HK CLEAN CARNIVAL IN EASTERN DISTRICT » * « * *
A THREE-HOUR CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD IN VICTORIA PARK ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12) TO PROMOTE THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN BY PROVIDING FREE ENTERTAINMENT TO YOUTHS.
THE HIGHLIGHT WILL BE A VARIETY SHOW WITH PERFORMANCES BY POP SINGERS MISS GINA LAM. MR ENGLISH TANG AND MR HUI CHI-ON.
THE CARNIVAL HAS BEEN CO-ORGANISED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD, DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE URBAN COUNCIL.
/IT WILL
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1?89
IT WILL START AT 2 PM. OFFICIATING AT ITS OPENING WILL BE THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GARY YEUNG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR SHUM CHOI-SANG; AN ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR CHAN CHI-SUM; AND URBAN COUNCILLOR, MR MAN SAI-CHEONG.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EASTERN DISTRICT KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN YOUTH CARNIVAL ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12) AT THE VICTORIA PA*K FOOTBALL PITCHES NOS. 4 TO 6. THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
- - 0
KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN RALLY FOR YOUTHS ♦ » t ♦ ♦
MORE THAN 400 YOUNGSTERS FROM KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT WILL ATTEND A RALLY TOMORROW (SATURDAY) IN SUPPORT OF THE DISTRICT’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN.
THE RALLY. JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD. THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE URBAN COUNCIL. WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM AT THE ARGYLE STREET PLAYGROUND.
PERFORMING AT THE RALLY WILL BE THE KOWLOON CITY CHILDREN’S CHOIR AND POPULAR SINGERS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN YOUTH RALLY WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE ARGYLE STREET PLAYGROUND. OPPOSITE TO THE SUNG WONG TOI GARDEN.
- - 0 -
/26
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 26 -
WAN CHAI CAMPAIGN FOR ELDERLY STARTS TOMORROW ♦ ♦ ♦ *
THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT CARE FOR THE OLD CAMPAIGN WILL START TOMORROW (SATURDAY) EVENING WITH A CANTONESE OPERA NIGHT IN THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM IN WAN CHAI.
THE CAMPAIGN, WHICH IS HELD ANNUALLY IN THE DISTRICT, WILL LAST FOR ABOUT TWO MONTHS BENEFITTING SOME 2,000 ELDERLY PEOPLE.
A LUNCH ON A FLOATING RESTAURANT, A PICNIC, A VEGETARIAN FEAST AND A CHINESE BANQUET WILL BE HELD FOR THE ELDERLY DURING THE CAMPAIGN PERIOD.
OFFICIATING AT TOMORROW’S OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICER, MR PETER MANN; POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR MICHAEL PREW; AND DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MRS PEGGY LAM.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT CARE FOR THE OLD CAMPAIGN TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT 7 PM IN THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM IN WAN CHAI.
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MOCK DB MEETINGS TOMORROW IN SHAM SHUT PO ******
FORTY PEOPLE FROM THE SHUM SHUI PO DISTRICT WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO FAMILIARISE THEMSELVES WITH THE ROLE OF DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS IN TWO MOCK DISTRICT BOARD MEETINGS TOMORROW (SATURDAY).
THE FUNCTION HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION AND IS SPONSORED BY THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD.
IT AIMS TO ENABLE PARTICIPANTS TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THE WORK OF THE DISTRICT BOARD AND TO HAVE A GREATER SENSE OF CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY.
DURING THE MOCK MEETINGS. PARTICIPANTS WILL BE GIVEN DISTRICT BOARD PAPERS FOR REFERENCE. DISCUSSION WILL FOCUS ON THE COMPREHENSIVE CLEARANCE OF UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS IN THE DISTRICT AND A REPORT ON ANTI SMOKING PROPOSALS BY THE HONG KONG COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH.
/THE MEETINGS........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 2? -
THE MEETINGS WILL BE CHAIRED BY DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS MR CHAN CHEE-SING AND MR TAM KWOK-KIU. THEY WILL GIVE THEIR COMMENTS IN A REVIEW SESSION AFTER THE MEETINGS.
REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE DISTRICT OFFICE. BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE. HOUSING DEPARTMENT, COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH. AND HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH WILL ATTEND THE MEETINGS TO ANSWER QUESTIONS RAISED BY "MEMBERS".
OFFICIATING AT THE FUNCTION WILL BE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR TAI TUNG-NGOK. AND DISTRICT OFFICER. MR ALAN FUNG.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MOCK SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD MEETINGS TO BE HELD FROM 2 PM TO 6 PM TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE HOLIDAY INN GOLDEN MILE HOTEL. TSIM SHA TSUI.
A CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT 3.45 PM DURING WHICH THE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR TAI TUNG-NGOK, WILL ADDRESS THE PARTICIPANTS.
-----------------------o------- TICKETS FOR LYRICS COMPETITION STILL AVAILABLE ♦ * t t * *
A LIMITED NUMBER OF FREE TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR THE FINALS OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT’S CHILDREN LYRICS COMPETITION WHICH WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12) EVENING.
THE TICKETS CAN BE OBTAINED AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE'S THREE PUBLIC ENQUIRY CENTRES AT HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES (WEST WING). AND IN BELCHER’S STREET, AS WELL AS AT THE WESTERN DISTRICT COMMUNITY CENTRE. 36 WESTERN STREET.
THE DISTRICT’S YOUTH CHOIR, THE HONG KONG CHILDREN’S CHOIR, AND TWO TVB CHILDREN'S PROGRAMME ARTISTS, MISS LEUNG WING-LAM AND MR WONG CHI-YIN, WILL BE GUEST PERFORMERS IN THE ANNUAL COMPETITION WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 7.30 PM AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE.
AFTER TWO SESSIONS OF AUDITIONS, 18 CHILDREN FROM THREE SOLO GROUPS AND 41 OTHERS FROM SEVEN ENSEMBLE GROUPS WILL COMPETE IN THE FINALS.
PART OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL. THE CONTEST HAS BEEN JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, DISTRICT BOARD, DISTRICT OFFICE AND WESTERN DISTRICT COMMUNITY CENTRE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE.
/WINNERS WILL .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 28 -
WINNERS WILL BE PRESENTED PRIZES BY THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR STEPHEN FISHER, THREE DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS, MR LAI KWOK-HUNG. MR PETER LEE AND MRS IRENE LEE, AS WELL AS BY OTHER GUESTS.
EVENTS IN THE THIRD WEEK OF THE FESTIVAL INCLUDE THE ’’CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OUR HOME PROJECT” AT FORBES STREET PLAYGROUND AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY: "CARNIVAL ON THE THEME OF DEMOCRACY" AT FORBES STREET PLAYGROUND AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY: "KITE-FLYING DAY" AT TAI O MUN, SAI KUNG. ON SUNDAY: AND A "HONG KONG AWARENESS COURSE" AT CARITAS YOUTH CENTRE, SHEK TONG TSUI, WHICH WILL BE HELD BETWEEN NOVEMBER 15 AND 30.
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ROAD SAFETY QUIZ PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY TOMORROW ******
A CEREMONY WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) TO PRESENT PRIZES AND SOUVENIRS TO THE WINNERS AND SPONSORS OF THE ROAD SAFETY QUIZ WHICH WAS ORGANISED AS PART OF THE 1989-90 ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN.
THE QUIZ WAS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE ROAD SAFETY PUBLICITY COMMITTEE AND HONG KONG DAILY NEWS, SING TAO JIH PAO AND SING TAO WAN PAO TO REINFORCE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE SAFETY CODES FOR DRIVERS, PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS.
OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY WILL BE THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR (TRAFFIC) OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE, MR CHING KWOK-KOO.
FOLLOWING THE PRIZE PRESENTATION, OFFICERS FROM THE POLICE ROAD SAFETY SECTION WILL INTRODUCE A NEW ROAD SAFETY EDUCATIONAL VIDEO PRODUCED FOR THIS YEAR’S ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN.
THE 10-MINUTE VIDEO FEATURES FOUR DRAMATISED ROAD ACCIDENT CASES INVOLVING CHILDREN TO HEIGHTEN THE AWARENESS OF THIS GROUP ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF ROAD SAFETY. THEY ARE REMINDED OF THE SAFETY CODES TO BE OBSERVED IN EVERYDAY TRAFFIC SITUATIONS.
THE VIDEO WILL BE SHOWN AT THE ROAD SAFETY EXHIBITION CENTRE AT 31ST FLOOR, UNITED CENTRE, QUEENSWAY; THE ROAD SAFETY PARK TN SHA TIN AND ON THE ROAD SAFETY BUS. IT WILL ALSO BE USED AS AN EDUCATIONAL AID BY OFFICERS OF THE ROAD SAFETY TEAM DURING THEIR VISITS TO SCHOOLS AND YOUTH ORGANISATIONS.
/ALSO ATTENDING .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
“ 29 -
ALSO ATTENDING THE PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY AND VIDEO PREVIEW WILL BE AN ACTING CHIEF ENGINEER AT THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, MR Y.C. YEUNG, REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT. POLICE ROAD SAFETY OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE ROAD SAFETY PUBLICITY COMMITTEE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE ROAD SAFETY QUIZ PRIZE PRESENTATION AND VIEW THE NEW ROAD SAFETY EDUCATIONAL VIDEO TOMORROW (SATURDAY). THE PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 3.45 PM IN THE TANG ROOM. FOURTH FLOOR, FURAMA HOTEL, CONNAUGHT ROAD. CENTRAL.
------0-------
CROSS COUNTRY MARATHON IN TSUEN WAN ON SUNDAY * t ♦ » ♦
ABOUT 150 RUNNERS WILL TAKE PART IN THE UTH TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL CROSS COUNTRY MARATHON ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12).
THE 14-KILOMETRE RACE WILL START AT 9 AM AT TSING LUNG TAU IN TSUEN WAN AND FINISH AT THE TAI MO SHAN COUNTRY PARK.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE SPORTS FESTIVAL, MR CHUNG WAI-PING, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE STARTING CEREMONY.
DISTRICT OFFICER. MR WILLIAM SHIU, AND DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR CHAU HOW-CHEN, WILL PRESENT PRIZES TO WINNERS AT A CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT THE TWISK MANAGEMENT CENTRE OF THE TAF MO SHAN COUNTRY PARK AT 10.30 AM.
THE MARATHON IS A HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH-LONG SPORTS FESTIVAL. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS WILL BE TABLE TENNIS AND MARTIAL ARTS DEMONSTRATIONS BY TEAMS FROM CHINA AND A BOXING COMPETITION.
AN AEROBIC DANCE COMPETITION WILL BE HELD AT THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL TOMORROW (SATURDAY) EVENING AND AN ARCHERY COMPETITION AT THE YEUNG UK ROAD SPORTS GROUND ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12).
PROGRAMME LEAFLETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICES CENTRES OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE.
/THE SPORTS .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
THE SPORTS FESTIVAL HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD, DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE FEDERATION OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT SPORTS AND RECREATION ASSOCIATION. THE BUDGET FOR THE FESTIVAL IS ESTIMATED AT OVER Si MILLION.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE TSUEN WAN SPORTS FESTIVAL CROSS COUNTRY MARATHON ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12).
TRANSPORT TAKING MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES TO THE STARTING POINT AT TSING LUNG TAU WILL LEAVE THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE AT TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING AT 8.30 AM.
------0-------
MORE FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES FOR WONG TAI SIN RESIDENTS
A NUMBER OF DISTRICT FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES WILL BE HELD IN WONG TAI SIN TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AND ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12).
THESE INCLUDE A SPECIAL TELEVISION PROGRAMME. A JOINT KINDERGARTEN GAMES DAY. A SOCIAL DANCE CONTEST. A CANTONESE OPERA SHOW. VARIETY SHOWS. A DISTRICT LONG RUN. A GUANGDONG-HONG KONG TABLE TENNIS EXHIBITION MATCH AND A TRADITIONAL CHINESE CRAFT SHOW.
TOMORROW. ATV-HOME CHANNEL WILL INTRODUCE THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT AND THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL IN ITS "MORNING LIVE WAVE" PROGRAMME. THE PROGRAMME WILL BEGIN AT 6.45 AM.
ABOUT 360 KINDERGARTEN PUPILS WILL TAKE PART IN A JOINT KINDERGARTEN GAMES DAY AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL IN SAN PO KONG. THIS EVENT WILL BEGIN AT 9 AM.
A SOCIAL DANCE CONTEST WILL BEGIN AT 7 PM AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL. WHILE A CANTONESE OPERA PERFORMED BY WELL-KNOWN ACTOR LAW KA-YING AND ACTRESS TSE SHUET-SUM WILL BEGIN AT 7.30 PM AT THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY HALL IN KOWLOON TONG.
FREE ADMISSION TICKETS FOR THE DANCE CONTEST AND TICKETS FOR THE CANTONESE OPERA SHOW AT 320. 340. AND 360 ARE AVAILABLE AT THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES.
THE LAST EVENT FOR TOMORROW IS A CIVIC EDUCATION VARIETY SHOW AT TSZ CHING ESTATE. ADMISSION TO THE SHOW. WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 7.30 PM. IS FREE.
/SUNDAY’S ACTIVITIES .......
FRIDAY, NOVDffiER 10, 1989
SUNDAY’S ACTIVITIES WILL BEGIN WITH A DISTRICT THAN 150 ATHLETES WILL START OFF AT 9 AM AT FEI NGO SEVEN-KILOMETRE RUN WILL FINISH AT JAT’S INCLINE.
LONG RUN. MORE SHAN ROAD. THE
THIS WILL BE FOLLOWED BY A CHINESE TRADITIONAL OPEN AT 2 PM AT THE CHUK YUEN ESTATE COMMERCIAL COMPLEX.
CRAFT SHOW TO
LEADING TABLE TENNIS PLAYERS FROM GUANGDONG WILL COMPETE
AGAINST TOP LOCAL PLAYERS AT AN EXHIBITION MATCH TO BEGIN AT 7 PM FREE ADMISSION TICKETS
THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL. STILL AVAILABLE FROM THE DISTRICT OFFICE
AND ITS SUB-OFFICES.
PODIUM
ALSO BEGINNING
OF THE PHASE 2
AT 7 PM. A VARIETY MARKET OF CHOI WAN
SHOW WILL BE HELD ESTATE.
ON
AT
ARE
THE
IN THE
CLOSES
MORE CULTURAL. NEXT TWO WEEKS ON NOVEMBER 26.
RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES WILL BEFORE THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT
BE
HELD
FESTIVAL
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE WELCOME TO COVER THE ABOVE EVENTS OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
------0-------
VITALITY PROGRAMME FOR CENTRAL AND WESTERN YOUTH ♦ ♦ ♦ t ♦
A CENTRAL AND WESTERN "YOUTH VITALITY SHOW”, SUPPORTING THIS YEAR’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN, WILL BE HELD AT THE KING GEORGE V MEMORIAL PARK IN SAI YING PUN ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12) AFTERNOON.
THE SHOW WILL COMPRISE TELEMATCHES, COLOURING AND DRAWING COMPETITIONS AS WELL AS PERFORMANCES BY SINGERS TSOI LAP-YEE AND TO TAK-CHEE.
ALL CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE DISTRICT ARE WELCOME TO TAKE PART IN THE SHOW, WHICH WILL RUN FROM 1 PM TO 4.30 PM.
THE EVENT, INTENDED TO REMIND THE YOUNGER GENERATION OF THE IMPORTANCE OF KEEPING THE TERRITORY CLEAN, HAS BEEN JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD AND THE URBAN COUNCIL.
PRIZES WILL BE PRESENTED TO WINNERS OF VARIOUS ACTIVITIES IN A CEREMONY BEGINNING AT 3 PM.
/AMONG THE .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
52 -
AMONG THE OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL BE THE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR AMBROSE LAU; ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MISS MONICA CHAN; URBAN COUNCILLORS, MR CHAN TAK-CHOR AND MR CHOW WAI-KEUNG; AND DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER, MR PETER LEE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN YOUTH VITALITY SHOW AND PRIZE PRESENTATION AT THE KING GEORGE V MEMORIAL PARK IN SAI YING PUN ON SUNDAY.
THE SHOW WILL BEGIN AT 1 PM AND THE PRIZE PRESENTATION WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM.
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AMS RECRUITMENT DAY IN EASTERN ♦ ♦ ♦ *
THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES WILL HOLD AN EASTERN DISTRICT RECRUITMENT DAY AND A PASSING OUT PARADE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12).
THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GARY YEUNG, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE RECRUITMENT DRIVE’S OPENING CEREMONY AND INSPECT THE PARADE.
THE EVENT WILL BEGIN AT 11 AM AT THE MORETON TERRACE PLAYGROUND, CAUSEWAY BAY.
A DISPLAY OF FIRST-AID EQUIPMENT AND PICTURES INTRODUCING THE ACTIVITIES OF AMS WILL BE STAGED AT THE VENUE. THOSE INTERESTED IN FIRST AID SERVICE CAN APPLY FOR ENROLMENT AT THE SITE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES RECRUITMENT DAY AND PASSING OUT PARADE TO BE HELD ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12) AT MORETON TERRACE PLAYGROUND, CAUSEWAY BAY. THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 11 AM.
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/33........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 33 -
CONTROL OF NEW ANTIBIOTIC *****
A NEW ANTIBIOTIC CALLED "ENRAMYCIN" WILL BE SUBJECT TO CONTROL UNDER THE ANTIBIOTICS ORDINANCE WITH EFFECT FROM JANUARY 1 NEXT YEAR.
THIS MEASURE IS CONTAINED IN THE ANTIBIOTICS (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) REGULATIONS 1989 PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
"IT IS GOVERNMENT POLICY THAT WITHOUT EXCEPTION ALL ANTIBIOTICS SHOULD BE CONTROLLED AS THEY ARE POTENT SUBSTANCES WHICH MAY PRODUCE HARMFUL EFFECTS AND RESISTANT BACTERIAL STRAINS UNLESS USED PROPERLY," A HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH SPOKESMAN SAID.
"ENRAMYCIN" IS A NEW ANTIBIOTIC WHICH HAS BEEN DEVELOPED SINCE THE LIST OF ANTIBIOTICS WAS LAST REVISED IN 1987 AND SHOULD ALSO BE SUBJECT TO CONTROL.
UNDER SECTION 4 OF THE ANTIBIOTICS ORDINANCE, ONLY QUALIFIED PERSONS ARE ALLOWED TO SELL, SUPPLY OR ADMINISTER BY WAY OF TREATMENT ANTIBIOTICS LISTED IN SCHEDULE 1 TO THE ANTIBIOTICS REGULATIONS.
"ANY PERSON WHO CONTRAVENES SECTION 4 COMMITS AN OFFENCE AND IS LIABLE TO A FINE OF $10,000 AND TO IMPRISONMENT FOR 12 MONTHS,” THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
- - 0-----------
MUSICIANS ARRIVE FOR YOUTH STRING MUSIC FESTIVAL
*******
TWO RENOWNED MUSICIANS FROM THE UNITED STATES. MS XIAO HONGMEI AND MR IVAN CHAN. ARRIVED TODAY (FRIDAY) TO TAKE PART IN THE 1989 HONG KONG YOUTH STRING MUSIC FESTIVAL ORGANISED BY THE MUSIC OFFICE.
MS XIAO WON THE FIRST PRIZE IN THE GENEVA INTERNATIONAL MUSIC COMPETITION FOR VIOLA IN 1987.
SHE HAS ALSO APPEARED IN A NUMBER OF RECITALS AND PERFORMANCES WITH ORCHESTRA IN SWITZERLAND. BELGIUM. ITALY. GERMANY. JAPAN AND THE UNITED STATES.
MR CHAN. X VIOLINIST. WAS A MEMBER OF THE HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND THE HONG KONG YOUTH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA FROM 1977 TO 1980.
IN RECENT YEARS. HE HAS GIVEN PERFORMANCES IN THE UNITED STATES WITH SUCH LEADING ORCHESTRAS AS THE DETROIT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, THE CONCERTO SOLOIST CHAMBER ORCHESTRA OF PHILADELPHIA AND THE FLORIDA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA.
/DURING THE........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
DURING THE FESTIVAL PERIOD. THE TWO MUSICIANS WILL GIVE DEMONSTRATIONS AND PERFORMANCES IN THREE CONCERTS TO BE STAGED AT THE CITY HALL CONCERT HALL. THE APA DRAMA THEATRE AND THE SHA TIN TOWN HALL AUDITORIUM ON NOVEMBER 12. 18 AND 19 RESPECTIVELY.
THEY WILL ALSO CONDUCT A SERIES OF VIOLIN AND VIOLA MASTER CLASSES AT THE MUSIC OFFICE’S MUSIC CENTRES ON NOVEMBER 13. 15 AND 17.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE FESTIVAL CAN BE MADE BY TELEPHONING 5-283257 .
-----o-----
CONSTRUCTION OF SEWER, DREDGING WORKS PROPOSED
******
THE GOVERNMENT INTENDS TO GRANT A WAYLEAVE TO A TUEN MUN LANDOWNER FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A SEWER FOR THE DISCHARGE OF TREATED EFFLUENT.
IT IS PROPOSED THAT THE SEWER, WITH A DIAMETER OF 250 MILLIMETRES, BE LAID WITHIN AN AREA OF APPROXIMATELY 480 SQUARE METRES OF FORESHORE AND SEABED BETWEEN BEAULIEU PENINSULA AND PEARL ISLAND.
THE GOVERNMENT ALSO INTENDS TO DREDGE WITHIN AN AREA OF ABOUT 1,355 HECTARES OF SEABED FOR MARINE SAND AT SOUTH TATHONG CHANNEL TO PROVIDE FILL FOR RECLAMATION.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREAS AFFECTED WAS DESCRIBED IN NOTICES PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HE HAS AN INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED MAY SUBMIT A WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS ON OR BEFORE JANUARY 9 NEXT YEAR.
THE NOTICE OF SUCH OBJECTION SHOULD DESCRIBE THE INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT OF THE OBJECTOR AND THE MANNER IN WHICH HE ALLEGES HE WILL BE AFFECTED.
- 0-----------
/55........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
- 35 -
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY
* * t *
SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED ON REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 12) TO FACILITATE THE SERVICE AT THE CENOTAPH IN CENTRAL.
THE ARRANGEMENTS INCLUDE TEMPORARY CLOSURES OF THE FOLLOWING ROAD SECTIONS:
t 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 NOON;
» CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL EASTBOUND BETWEEN EDINBURGH PLACE WEST AND EDINBURGH FLACE EAST WILL BE CLOSED FROM 10.50 AM TO 11.30 AM;
* HARCOURT ROAD FLYOVER AND CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL WESTBOUND BETWEEN IIARCOUL‘1 ROAD A D 1C1 HOUSE STREET WILL BE CLOSED FROM 10.28 AM TO NOON:
> (HATER ROAD BETWEEN PEDDER STREET AND JACKSON ROAD AND ICE IlcISL STREI T Bl TWEEN QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL AND CONNAUGHT LOAD CENTRAL WILL BE CLOSED FROM 7 AM TO MIDNIGHT EXCEPT FOR IHOSE VEHICLES REQUIRING ACCESS TO THE MANDARIN HOTEL.
THE FOLLOWING DIVERSIONS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED FROM 8 AM TO NOON UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED:
* 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 TO COTTON TREE DRIVE. VEHICLES WISHING TO PROCEED FURTHER WEST WILL BI DIVERTED VIA THE SLIP ROAD TO QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL.
» EASTROUND TRAFFIC FROM THE ADMIRALTY MTR STATION WILL BE PERMITTED TO TURN SOUTH ONTO TAMAR STREET AND THEN TURN LEFT TO QUEENSWAY.
» VEHICLES BEARING A MANDARIN HOTEL LABEL WILL BE PERMITTED TO ENTER CHATER ROAD FROM PEDDER STREET AND THEN TURN NORTH TO THE SERVICE LANE ADJACENT TO THE EAST SIDE OF THE HOTEL.
IF NECESSARY THESE. VEHHXrs Wil.', Al;sO BE PERMITTED TO PROCEED SOUTH ON ICE BliP^E STREET TO REo'.IN' ACCESS’ TO THE SERVICE. LANE. y
t DURING THE/ CLOSURE of CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL EASTBOUND Bl EUI I N F/. INBURGH PLACE WEST AND EDINBURGH PLAUE BAST FROM 10.50 AM TO 11.30 AM, EDINBURGH PLACE CENTRAL WILL BE RE-ROUTED ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND,
/VEHICLES LEAVING .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1989
36
VEHICLES LEAVING THE STAR FERRY MULTI-STOREY CARPARK WILL BE DIVERTED VIA EDINBURGH PLACE CENTRAL, QUEEN’S PIER AND EDINBURGH PLACE EAST.
ALL PARKING SPACES IN JACKSON ROAD WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 12.01 AM TO MIDNIGHT AND THOSE IN CONNAUGHT PLACE WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 12.01 AM TO NOON. MOTORCYCLE PARKING SPACES IN EDINBURGH PLACE NORTH WILL ALSO BE CANCELLED BETWEEN 12.01 AM AND NOON.
THE TAXI STAND IN 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 FOR ROUTES 1, 1A, 3, 8, 9 AND 22 IN EDINBURGH PLACE EAST OR EDINBURGH PLACE CENTRAL WILL ALSO BE SUSPENDED FROM 10 AM TO NOON AND WILL BE RESITED TO THE NORTHERN SECTION OF CONNAUGHT PLACE.
CMB ROUTES 1, 2, 3, 6, 12, 13, 15, 23A, 40M, 61, 64, 70, 75, 80, 81M, 90, 97, 260 AND 780, CROSS-HARBOUR ROUTE 103 AND KMB ROUTE A2 WILL BE DIVERTED DUE TO THE SPECIAL TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS BETWEEN 8 AM AND NOON.
GREEN MINIBUSES ON ROUTES 1, 1A, 3, 8, 9, 22 AND 28 WILL ALSO BE DIVERTED BETWEEN 10 AM AND NOON.
-----0------
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SAI YING PUN
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN SAI YING PUN ON HONG KONG ISLAND FROM 8 AM TO 11 PM ON FOUR SUNDAYS (NOVEMBER 12, 19 AND 26 AND DECEMBER 3) BECAUSE OF TELEPHONE CABLE LAYING WORKS.
CENTRE STREET BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST AND DES VOEUX ROAD WEST WILL BE RE-ROUTED FROM ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND TO TWO-WAY CUL-DE-SAC WITH ACCESS FROM DES VOEUX ROAD WEST.
VEHICLES ON CENTRE STREET NORTHBOUND HEADING FOR CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST WILL BE DIVERTED VIA DES VOEUX ROAD WEST AND WILMER STREET TO JOIN CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST.
AT THE SAME TIME, THE TERMINUS FOR CMB ROUTE 91 IN CENTRE STREET WILL BE RELOCATED JTO EASTERN STREET BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST AND DES VOEUX RGrf) WEStT'^X^
ALSO, THIS Bl'S ROUTS ON ITS SAV .'LING PUN BOUND JOURNEYS WILL BE DIVERTED VIA DES VOEUX ROAD WEST, WESTERN STREET, CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST AND EASTERN STREET. V
EASTERN STREET BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST ^ND DES VOEUX ROAD WEST WILL BE MADE A 8 AM TO 11 PM URBAN CLBARWA’i AND ALL PARKING SPACES ON THIS ROAD SECTION WILL BE SUSPENDED DURING THIS PERIOD.
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 19&9
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
COMMITTEE FAVOURS SYSTEMATISED BUILDING MANAGEMINT ........... 1
GREATER DEMAND FOR SERVICES FOR ELDERLY....................... 2
PUBLIC URGED TO PROMOTE ROAD SAFETY........................... 3
COLLECTIVE EFFORT URGED IN MEETING NEW AIRPORT GOAL........... 5
NEED FOR EYE PROTECTION STRESSED.............................. 6
YOUTH CENTRES PLAY IMPORTANT ROLE............................. 7
MOCK DB MEETINGS PROMOTE COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT................ 7
PEDDER STREET UNDERPASS TO OPEN ON MONDAY..................... 8
TSUEN WAN POST OFFICE REMAINS OPEN............................ 9
CARNIVAL IN SOUTHERN TOMORROW................................. 10
YAU TSIM DB AND TTC MEET ON MONDAY............................ 11
KWAI TSING ARTS FESTIVAL PROGRAMME TO BE ANNOUNCED............ 11
ENVIRONMENTAL THEME FOR NORTH DISTRICT CARNIVAL............... 12
ACAF MEMBERS VISIT SHAM WAN FISH CULTURE ZONE................. 13
PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY ZONE IN CHEUNG CHAU....................... 14
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 11. 1989
1 COMMITTEE FAVOURS SYSTEMATISED BUILDING MANAGEMENT
ONE OF THE MAIN TARGETS OF THE PRIVATE BUILDING MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE IS TO BRING ABOUT SYSTEMATISATION OF BUILDING MANAGEMENT. THE COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN. MR CHUNG PUI-LAM. SAID AT A BUILDING MANAGEMENT SEMINAR IN SHAM SHUI PO TODAY (SATURDAY).
ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT’S PRIVATE BUILDING MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND SPONSORED BY THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD, THE SEMINAR WAS ATTENDED BY MORE THAN 100 LOCAL RESIDENTS AND OFFICE-BEARERS OF MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS (OC’S).
IN EXPLAINING THE SYSTEMATISATION OF BUILDING MANAGEMENT. MR CHUNG SAID AN EFFECTIVE MEANS TO IMPROVE BUILDING MANAGEMENT PROBLEMS WAS TO STIPULATE SOME BASIC PROVISIONS IN DEEDS OF MUTUAL COVENANT (DMC).
WITH THESE OVER-RIDING PROVISIONS, THE EFFECT OF UNFAIR PROVISIONS IN EXISTING DMC’S WOULD BE MINIMISED.
HE SAID HIS COMMITTEE HAD PROPOSED THAT AMENDMENTS BE MADE TO THE MULTI-STOREY BUILDING (OWNERS’ INCORPORATIONS) ORDINANCE. AND SUGGESTED THAT THE PROCEDURES FOR FORMING OC ’ S BE SIMPLIFIED.
BOTH OWNERS AND OCCUPANTS ALIKE SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE IN OC’S WHICH IN TURN SHOULD BE EMPOWERED TO MANAGE THEIR BUILDINGS ACCORDING TO THE DMC.
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE AIM OF SYSTEMATISATION WAS TO RETURN THE ’’SUPREME POWER OF BUILDING MANAGEMENT AUTONOMY” TO THE OWNERS OR THE OC. THIS WOULD ENSURE THAT RESIDENTS WOULD LEAD A PEACEFUL AND COMFORTABLE LIFE AS WELL AS PROTECTING THEIR GENERAL INTEREST.
A GOVERNMENT BUILDING SURVEYOR. MR CHENG WAI-TAT, TOLD THE SEMINAR THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT WOULD OFFER MORE ASSISTANCE TO DISTRICT BUILDING MANAGEMENT CO-ORDINATION COMMITTEES.
HE SAID HIS DEPARTMENT WAS REPRESENTED ON THESE COMMITTEES AND OFFERED EXPERT ADVICE ON MATTERS RELATING TO BUILDING STRUCTURE, DRAINAGE. UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS AND ENGINEERING MATTERS. HE ADDED THAT STEPPING UP SUCH ASSISTANCE WOULD BRING ABOUT BETTER RESULTS IN BUILDING MANAGEMENT WORKS.
MR CHENG POINTED OUT THAT HIS DEPARTMENT WAS ALSO IMPLEMENTING A NEW URBAN RENOVATION SCHEME. THE FIRST STAGE OF WHICH COVERED 38 BLOCKS TN SHAM SHUI PO.
THE BUILDINGS WERE CONSTRUCTED IN THE 1950’S AND THEIR STRUCTURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS WERE POOR. ORDERS WERE ISSUED TO OWNERS IN AUGUST THIS YEAR REQUIRING THEM TO IMPROVE THE BUILDINGS.
/MR CHENG.......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1989
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MR CHENG POINTED OUT THAT HIS DEPARTMENT HAD OBTAINED THE APPROVAL OF THE FINANCE BRANCH FOR INCREASING THE STAFF OF THE DANGEROUS BUILDINGS SECTION BY 30 OFFICERS TO TIGHTEN MONITORING WORK ON BUILDING STRUCTURE.
HE SAID THE TERRITORY HAD BEEN DIVIDED INTO 28 AREAS. WITH EACH TO BE SERVED BY A TEAM FROM THE SECTION.
OFFICERS FROM THE SECTION WOULD CARRY OUT REGULAR SITE INSPECTIONS TO SEE IF THERE WERE ANY STRUCTURAL PROBLEMS. DANGEROUS SIGNBOARDS, DAMAGED DRAINS. OR DECAYING CONCRETE. REPAIR ORDERS WOULD BE ISSUED TO OWNERS IF NECESSARY.
OTHER SPEAKERS AT THE SEMINAR WERE A MEMBER OF THE ROYAL INSTITUTE OF HOUSING MANAGERS (HONG KONG BRANCH). MR MOK CHI-HUNG, WHO SPOKE ON THE IMPORTANCE OF RESIDENTS’ PARTICIPATION IN BUILDING MANAGEMENT; AND COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION OFFICER, MR YUNG CHI-LEUNG. WHO EXPLAINED IN DETAIL THE PREVENTION AGAINST CORRUPTION ORDINANCE IN RELATION TO MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS.
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GREATER DEMAND FOR SERVICES FOR ELDERLY
*****
IHE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE. MRS ELIZABETH WONG. TODAY (SATURDAY) CALLED ON THE PUBLIC TO RESPECT THE ELDERLY AND TO PAY ATTENTION TO THEIR NEEDS.
SPEAKING AT A CANTONESE OPERA CONCERT FOR THE ELDERLY ORGANISED BY THE ENDEAVOURERS, A VOLUNTARY AGENCY, AT THE CITY HALL. MRS WONG SAID HONG KONG HAD A GROWING AGED POPULATION, WITH ZOO 000 PEOPLE OVER THE AGE OF 60.
DEMAND FOR ELDERLY SERVICES IS NOW GREATER THAN EVER AS LIFE EXPECTANCY GETS HIGHER."
SHE POINTED OUT THAT WORK COULD BE DONE AT THREE LEVELS.
"FIRST OF ALL. WE SHOULD CARE FOR THE ELDERLY AROUND US TRY TO UNDERSTAND THEIR FEELINGS AND NEEDS.
AND
"APART FROM MEETING THEIR MATERIAL NEEDS. FOR THEIR FEELINGS." SHE SAID.
WE SHOULD ALSO CARE
MRS WONG SAID FAMILY MEMBERS SHOULD TRY TO PROVIDE A COMFORTABLE AND SAFE HOME FOR THEIR ELDERLY MEMBERS AS WELL AS SHOWING SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT.
THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE SHOULD ALSO PLAY A ROLE BY PROVIDING SOCIAL SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY. SUCH AS SOCIAL CENTRES AND DAY CARE
/"THIS WOULD ......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1989
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"THIS WOULD ENABLE THEM TO CONTINUE TO LEAD A HAPPY LIFE IN AN ENVIRONMENT THEY ARE FAMILIAR WITH." SHE SAID.
THE ELDERLY SHOULD ALSO BE ENCOURAGED TO TAKE AN ACTIVE PART IN COMMUNITY LIFE. MRS WONG ADDED.
TN A SEPARATE FUNCTION TODAY. THE REGIONAL SOCIAL WORK OFFICER (HONG KONG), MR KWOK NAI-SIK. ALSO SPOKE ON HOW PEOPLE SHOULD TREAT AND RESPECT THE ELDERLY.
SPEAKING AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF THE "BETTER COMMUNICATION FOR A BETTER TOMORROW" DAY ORGANISED BY THE QUEENSWAY JAYCEES, MR KWOK SAID IT WAS IMPORTANT TO LISTEN TO THE VIEWS AND SHARE THE EXPERIENCE OF THE ELDERLY.
"XT THE SAME TIME. WE CAN EXPLAIN OUR VIEWS TO THEM." HE SAID.
"THIS KIND OF TWO-WAY COMMUNICATION HELPS REDUCE THE CHANCES OF UNHARMONIOUS FAMILY RELATIONSHIP.
"FURTHERMORE, WE SHOULD ENCOURAGE THE ELDERLY TO MAINTAIN AN ACTIVE SOCIAL LIFE AS THEY COULD FIND SATISFACTION IN GETTING ALONG WITH PEOPLE FROM THE SAME GENERATION SHARING SIMILAR EXPERIENCES." HE CONTINUED.
"THEY SHOULD ALSO BE ENCOURAGED TO LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT IS GOING ON IN SOCIETY AND THE WORLD."
BY BROADENING THEIR PERSPECTIVE. THE ELDERLY WOULD FIND IT EASIER TO ACCEPT OTHER PEOPLE’S VIEWS. HE SAID.
PEOPLE SHOULD ALSO SUPPORT THEIR PARENTS IN PARTICIPATING IN SOCIAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES. BY ACCOMPANYING AND SHARING WITH THEM. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE TWO SIDES COULD BE ENHANCED. MR KWOK ADDED.
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PUBLIC URGED TO PROMOTE ROAD SAFETY *****
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC SHOULD HELP IN PROMOTING ROAD SAFETY AND IN REDUCING ROAD ACCIDENTS TO THE MINIMUM. THE POLICE DEPUTY DIRECTOR (TRAFFIC). MR CHING KWOK-HOO. SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING XT THE ROAD SAFETY PRESS QUIZ PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY. MR CHING SAID THAT AS THE ROAD CONDITIONS WERE CONGESTED AND BUSY. THERE WAS THE NEED NOT ONLY TO CONVEY ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES TO THE PUBLIC. BUT ALSO TO PROMOTE ROAD SAFETY CONTINUOUSLY THROUGH DIFFERENT CHANNELS.
HE POINTED OUT THAT FOR THE FIRST THREE QUARTERS OF THIS YEAR, THERE WERE 393 FEWER ACCIDENTS THAN IN THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD IN 1988. A DECLINE OF 3.2 PER CENT.
/THE PRESS .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1989
k
THE PRESS QUIZ. JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE ROAD SAFETY PUBLICITY COMMITTEE AND HONG KONG DAILY NEWS. SING TAO JIH PAO AND SING TAO WAN PAO, WAS HELD IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER TO REINFORCE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF SAFETY CODES FOR DRIVERS. PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS.
THE QUIZ HAD RECEIVED A FAVOURABLE RESPONSE FROM THE PUBLIC AND OVER 4,000 ENTRIES WERE COLLECTED FROM THE OPEN GROUP AND THE STUDENT GROUP.
NUMEROUS SPONSORS HAD DONATED ATTRACTIVE PRIZES FOR THE QUIZ WHICH DEMONSTRATED EXTENSIVE COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN SUPPORT OF THE ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN.
THE PRIZES INCLUDED CASH COUPONS FOR AUDIO VISUAL EQUIPMENT, CAMERA BAGS AND FILMS. FOOD COUPONS. BALL PENS AND GIFT VOUCHERS.
GUESTS AT THE CEREMONY WERE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO PREVIEW THE NEW ROAD SAFETY EDUCATIONAL VIDEO FOLLOWING THE PRIZE PRESENTATION.
THE 1 O-MINUTE VIDEO PRODUCTION FEATURED FOUR DRAMATISED ROAD ACCIDENT CASES INVOLVING CHILDREN.
THE VIDEO. AIMED AT REMINDING CHILDREN IN EVERYDAY TRAFFIC SITUATIONS OF THE SAFETY CODES TO OBSERVE IN THE PREVENTION OF FATAL ROAD ACCIDENTS. WAS INTENDED TO HEIGHTEN THE AWARENESS OF THIS AT-RISK GROUP ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF ROAD SAFETY.
THE VIDEO WILL BE SCREENED TO VISITORS TO THE ROAD SAFETY EXHIBITION CENTRE IN UNITED CENTRE, BIST FLOOR, QUEENSWAY. ROAD SAFETY PARK IN SHA TIN AND THE MOBILE ROAD SAFETY BUS.
IN ADDITION. IT WILL BE USED AS AN EDUCATIONAL TOOL BY OFFICERS OF THE ROAD SAFETY TEAM DURING THEIR VISITS TO SCHOOLS AND YOUTH ORGANISATIONS.
ALSO ATTENDING TODAY'S CEREMONY WERE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ACTING CHIEF ENGINEER. MR Y.C. YEUNG. REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT. ROAD SAFETY OFFICERS FROM THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE. AND MEMBERS OF THE ROAD SAFETY PUBLICITY COMMITTEE.
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COLLECTIVE EFFORT URGED IN MEETING NEW AIRPORT GOAL
******
THE SECRETARY FOR WORKS. MR KENNETH KWOK. THIS (SATURDAY) EVENING CALLED FOR ALL PARTIES IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TO ACHIEVE THE GOAL OF OPENING THE NEW AIRPORT BY 1997 AND IN PROVIDING PORT FACILITIES FOR HONG KONG’S FUTURE EXPANSION.
SPEAKING AT A DINNER RECEPTION HOSTED BY THE INSTITUTE OF QUARRYING, MR KWOK SAID OF THESE PARTIES: "YOUR CONTRIBUTION WILL CONTINUE TO BE INVALUABLE AND. KNOWING THE WAY YOU HAVE CONQUERED THE CHALLENGES BEFORE. I AM CONFIDENT THAT YOU WILL MEET THIS BIG CHALLENGE IN THE FUTURE WITH EVEN GREATER SUCCESS."
THE GOVERNOR ANNOUNCED LAST MONTH THE DECISION TO BUILD A NEW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK WITH AN AIM OF HAVING THE FIRST RUNWAY OPERATIONAL BY EARLY 1997.
ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION. MR KWOK SAID THE METROPLAN LANDSCAPE STRATEGY. WHICH WAS APPROVED BY THE GOVERNMENT EARLIER THIS YEAR, PROVIDED THE POLICY SUPPORT FOR REHABILITATION OF QUARRIES IN THE URBAN AREAS.
ALREADY. THE PROPOSALS FOR THE REHABILITATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF SHEK O QUARRY INTO A MARINA PROJECT HAD BEEN AGREED IN PRINCIPLE BY THE GOVERNMENT AND WELCOMED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD. HE SAID.
"DETAILED PLANS ARE NOW BEING DRAWN UP BY THE QUARRY OPERATORS." HE SAID.
SIMILARLY. MR KWOK ADDED. AT ANDERSON ROAD IN KOWLOON. WHERE PERHAPS THE LARGEST VISIBLE SCAR COULD BE SEEN ACROSS THE HARBOUR, THE SITE WOULD BE REHABILITATED IN DUE COURSE AT THE END OF THE QUARRYING OPERATIONS. AND LANDSCAPED TO BLEND IN WITH THE NATURAL HILLSIDE.
"THIS APPROACH TO OUR URBAN QUARRIES ACHIEVES THE OBJECTIVE OF MAINTAINING A VALUABLE SOURCE 01 QUARRYING MATERIALS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WHILST AT THE SAME TIME RESTORING THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT AFTER THE EXTRACTION IS COMPLETED." MR KWOK SAID.
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SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 11. 1989
NEED FOR EYE PROTECTION STRESSED **♦**■»
MOST EYF INJURIES CAN BE AVOIDED IF THE PUBLIC ARE PROVIDED WITH SUFFICIENT KNOWLEDGE ABOUT EYE PROTECTION AND ADOPT APPROPRIATE PREVENTIVE MEASURES. THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR. MR TONY HAMMOND, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE EYE-CARE SEMINAR AND EXHIBITION 1989. MR HAMMOND NOTED THAT THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HANDLED 3,772 COMPENSATION CASES FOR EYE INJURIES AT WORK LAST YEAR.
"MOST OF THESE INJURIES WERE CAUSED BY FLYING OBJECTS, CORROSIVE CHEMICALS AND WELDING RADIATION, AND MANY COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED IF PROPER SAFETY PRECAUTIONS HAD BEEN OBSERVED." HE SAID.
MR HAMMOND SAID THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ORGANISED PUBLICITY AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES ON EYE PROTECTION ON A REGULAR BASIS.
"TO MINIMISE THE NUMBER OF CASES OF WORKERS SUFFERING FROM SUCH ACCIDENTS. THE DEPARTMENT HAS ENACTED A SET OF REGULATIONS FOR THE PROTECTION OF EYES." HE ADDED.
HE DESCRIBED THE EXHIBITION AS "A MEANINGFUL EVENT".
THE EXHIBITION IS ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF SOCIETIES FOR THE PREVENTION OF BLINDNESS. THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO PROMOTE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THF NEED TO PREVENT FYE INJURIES AT HOME. IN SPORTS AND AT WORK.
ALSO SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY. THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR S.H. LEF. POINTED OUT THAT EYE INJURIES CAUSED BY ACCIDENTS WERE ON THE INCREASE. AND THAT THEY WERE MAINLY DUE TO FAILURE TO TAKE DUE CARE AND NEGLIGENCE OF HEALTH AND SAFETY RULES.
DR LEE STRESSED THAT THE CENTRAL HEALTH EDUCATION UNIT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAD BEEN VERY ACTIVE IN THE PROMOTION OF VARIOUS FORMS OF HEALTH EDUCATION ON EYE CARE SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 1978.
"HENCE. IT HAS JOINED HANDS WITH THE FEDERATION OF SOCIETIES FOR THE PREVENTION OF BLINDNESS AND THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT IN LAUNCHING THE CAMPAIGN ONCE AGAIN THIS YEAR." HE SAID.
DR LEE ALSO PRAISED THE EXHIBITION FOR ITS EMPHASIS ON THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF WORKERS. EMPLOYERS AND THE GOVERNMENT IN PREVENTING EYE INJURIES. BESIDES PROVIDING INFORMATION ON EYE SAFETY LEGISLATION. EYE INJURIES AND THF IMPORTANCE OF PROMPT MEDICAL ATTENTION.
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YOUTH CENTRES PLAY IMPORTANT ROLE » * * t *
THE PURPOSE OF ESTABLISHING YOUTH CENTRES IS TO PROVIDE YOUNG PEOPLE WITH A VENUE FOR COMMUNITY AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE THEIR HOMES AND SCHOOLS.
THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MR T.H. CHAU. SAID THIS TODAY (SATURDAY) AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE CHINESE YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION’S CHUK YUEN CENTRE, IN WONG TAI SIN.
MR CHAU SAID IT WAS HOPED THAT YOUNG PEOPLE WOULD BE ABLE TO MAKE GOOD USE OF THEIR LEISURE TIME THROUGH PARTICIPATION IN VARIOUS ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY THE YOUTH CENTRES.
THEY COULD ALSO CULTIVATE THEIR VARIOUS INTERESTS, DEVELOP THEIR POTENTIAL AND LEADERSHIP ABILITY AND ENHANCE THEIR KNOWLEDGE OF AND CONCERN FOR COMMUNITY AFFAIRS. HE ADDED.
"THROUGH VARIOUS FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION ACTIVITIES, THE YOUTH CENTRES SEEK TO PROMOTE BETTER COMMUNICATION AND UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN PARENTS AND CHILDREN FOR A HARMONIOUS AND HAPPY FAMILY LIFE.
"FURTHERMORE. STAFF AND MEMBERS OF THE YOUTH CENTRES OFTEN JOINTLY ORGANISE SUITABLE ACTIVITIES TO MEET LOCAL NEEDS."
MR CHAU NOTED THAT SINCE THE CHUK YUEN CENTRE BEGAN OPERATION IN MAY THIS YEAR. THE MEMBERSHIP HAD RAPIDLY INCREASED TO MORE THAN 1.900 PERSONS, AND THE DAILY NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS IN ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY THE CENTRE AVERAGED 250.
"THIS SHOWS THAT THE CENTRE IS VERY POPULAR AMONG THE RESIDENTS AND THAT THE EFFORTS OF THE CENTRE’S STAFF HAVE BORNE FRUIT," HE SAID.
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MOCK DB MEETINGS PROMOTE COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
* t t t »
FORTY TEACHERS. SOCIAL WORKERS AND STUDENTS TODAY (SATURDAY) GAINED AN INSIGHT INTO THE OPERATIONS OF DISTRICT BOARDS AT MOCK DISTRICT BOARD MEETINGS ORGANISED BY THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION.
SPEAKING AT THE MEETING. THE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR TAI TUNG-NGOK, SAID Till' EVENT WAS AIMED AT ENCOURAGING PARTICIPANTS TO INVOLVE THEMSELVES MORE IN DISTRICT AFFAIRS AND TO SERVE THE COMMUNITY.
/HE SAID
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1?89
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HE SAID DISTRICT AFFAIRS HAD BECOME INCREASINGLY DEVELOPMENTS IN SOCIETY. AND NOTID THAT Till DISTRICT SCHEME HAD BEEN INTRODUCED IN 19«1 TO INCREASE OPPORTUNITIES OF PARTICIPATING IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.
COMPLEX WITH ADMINISTRATION THE PUBLIC’S
AT THE SAME TIME. THE SCHEME ALSO SERVED AS X MEANS TO GAUGE GRASSROOT OPINIONS. ENABLING Till GOVERNMENT TO BETTER SERVE THE PUBLIC. ESPECIALLY IN THE CO-ORDINATION OF INTER-DEPARTMENTAL EFFORTS IN MEETING DISTRICT DEMANDS.
"THIS IS THE REASON WHY DISTRICT BOARDS HAVE COME INTO BEING." MR TAI POINTED OUT.
AFTER BRIEFING PARTICIPANTS ON THE WORK OF THE DISTRICT BOARD, MR TAI EXPLAINED THAT THE BOARD WAS A VENUE FOR ENHANCING CIVIC AWARENESS. AND A FORUM THROUGH WHICH THE PUBLIC COULD DISCHARGE THEIR CIVIC OBLIGATIONS.
MR TAI URGED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO BE MORE CONCERNED WITH THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY AND TO GIVE THEIR VIEWS ON PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES.
HE ALSO HOPED THAT THEY WOULD TAKE THE INITIATIVE TO KEEP THEMSELVES ABREAST OF LATEST POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS. AND TAKE AN ACTIVE PART IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AT ALL LEVELS.
PEOPLE: SHOULD MAKE USE of THE EXISTING CHANNELS TO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS AND TO MONITOR THE WORK OF THE GOVERNMENT AND DISTRICT BOARDS. HE SAID.
DURING THE MOCK BOARD MEETINGS. PARTICIPANTS ENTHUSIASTICALLY EXCHANGED THEIR VIEWS ON A COMPREHENSIVE CLEARANCE OF UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS AND THE PROPOSED ANTI-SMOKING MEASURES PUT FORWARD BY THE HONG KONG COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH.
THEY ALSO LISTENED CAREFULLY TO ANSWERS GIVEN BY REPRESENTATIVES FROM Till SHAM SHU1 PO DISTRICT OFFICE. BUILDINGS ORDINANCE OFFICE. HOUSING DEPARTMENT, HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH AS WELL AS THE COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH.
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REDDER STREET UNDERPASS TO OPEN ON MONDAY t » * » » * t
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT ONE LANE IN THE WESTBOUND TUBE OF THE PEDDER STREET UNDERPASS IN CENTRAL WILL BE OPENED TO TRAFFIC FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 13).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THAT ONE LANE IN THE EASTBOUND TUBE WOULD BE OPENED SOON.
/'"ME OPENING........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1?89
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’’THE OPENING OF THE UNDERPASS WILL ALLOW THROUGH TRAFFIC TRAVELLING ALONG CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL TO PASS UNDER THE PEDDER STREET JUNCTION IN FREE FLOW CONDITIONS, WITHOUT HAVING TO STOP AT THE TRAFFIC SIGNALS.
"THE REMOVAL OF THIS THROUGH TRAFFIC FROM THE GROUND LEVEL ROADS WILL ALLOW THE ADJUSTMENT OF TRAFFIC SIGNALS SO THAT MORE TIME WILL BE GIVEN TO CROSS TURNING TRAFFIC. AND ENABLE THE GROUND LEVEL ROADS AT THE JUNCTION TO BE RECONSTRUCTED WITH MINIMUM DISRUPTION TO MOTORISTS,” HE SAID.
UPON COMPLETION OF THE GROUND LEVEL ROADWORKS ADJACENT TO THE UNDERPASS RAMPS. THE SECOND LANE IN EACH TUBE OF THE UNDERPASS WOULD BE OPENED.
"THIS WILL OFFER FURTHER RELIEF TO BOTH THROUGH TRAFFIC USING THE UNDERPASS AND TURNING TRAFFIC USING THE GROUND LEVEL JUNCTION." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE $78 MILLION PEDDER STREET UNDERPASS IS 280 METRES IN LENGTH. AND HAS DUAL TWO LANE CARRIAGEWAYS.
THE UNDERPASS WAS DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTION WAS SUPERVISED BY CONSULTING ENGINEERS PETER Y.S. PUN AND ASSOCIATES ON BEHALF OF HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT, AND CONSTRUCTED BY KIER HONG KONG LIMITED.
THE COLOUR SCHEME IN THE UNDERPASS WAS DESIGNED BY ATELIER CLER. A FRENCH CHROMATIC SPECIALIST.
THE NON-ROAD AREAS ABOVE THE UNDERPASS WILL BE LANDSCAPED.
-----------------0------- TSUEN WAN POST OFFICE REMAINS OPEN ♦ * t ♦ ♦
THE TSUEN WAN POST OFFICE LOCATED AT 407 CASTLE PEAK ROAD WILL NOT CLOSE DOWN TODAY (SATURDAY) AS PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED. A POST OFFICE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"CUSTOMERS WILL THEREFORE BE ABLE TO' CONDUCT THEIR POSTAL BUSINESS AS USUAL AT THIS POST OFFICE," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
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/1O .......
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 11. 1989
CARNIVAL IN SOUTHERN TOMORROW ♦ * t ♦
A CARNIVAL. OFFERING MORE THAN 20 GAMES AND (RAFTS STALLS IN ADDITION TO A VARIETY SHOW. WILL BE HELD FOR SOUTHERN DISTRICT RES I DENTS TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
THE FOUR-HOUR DISTRICT FESTIVAL EVENT WILL START AT 1 PM AT THE ABERDEEN SPORTS GROUND IN WONG ( HUE HANG. ADMISSION IS FREE AND TICKETS FOR STALL-GAMES WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE VENUE.
A CEREMONY TO MARK THI OCCASION WILL BEG IN AT 2 PM. OFFICIATING WILL BE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICER. MRS MAUREEN CHAN; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR HUI YUNG-CHUNG: ('HAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MRS SO ('HAU YIM IINU: AND CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE’S CARNIVAI WORKING GROUP. MR POON SHUN-KWOK.
THE VARIETY SHOW WILI FEATURE PERFORMANCES RY FILM AND TELEVISION ARTIST 1.0 Hol PANG AND OTHER POPULAR SINGERS. A SONG REQUEST PROGRAMME TO BF IIOS I J D B\ DISC JOCKEY YU Sil KEI. MAGIC SHOWS. AND A TAEKWONDO DEMONSTRAT I ON BY MEMBERS Ob Till WESTERN JUNIOR POLICE CALI..
WINNERS ni THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT SONG CONTEST AND THE CHILDREN’S CHOIR OF THE DISTRIC’I Will ALSO PERFORM AT THE SHOW.
XPART FROM IB GAME STALLS, THERE WILL BF A NUMBER Ol ARTS AND CRAFTS STALLS ON MAKING "GRASS HOPPERS" AND RIBBON FLOWERS. AND ON CALLIGRAPHY AND PAPER-FOLDI NG.
OTHER ATTRITIONS WILL INCLUDE PALM READING. PORTRAIT SKETCHING AND CHINESE (’HESS DEMONSTRATION STALLS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES UM INVITED TO (’OVER Till' SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL CARNIVAL TO BE IIILD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) IRON 1 PM TO 5 PM AT THE ABERDEEN SPORTS (.ROUND IN WONG CHUK HANG.
A CEREMONY TO MAKI. THI Off \S ION WILI BEGIN AT 2 PM.
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SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 11. 1989
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YAU TSIM DB AND TTC MEET ON MONDAY * * * * *
THE YAU TSIM DISTRICT BOARD WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 13) IMMEDIATELY AFTER A REGULAR MEETING OF ITS TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE.
AT THE SPECIAL MEETING, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 4 PM. REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION WILL BRIEF DB MEMBERS ON REDEVELOPMENT STUDIES ON YUNNAN LANE AND THE AREA BOUNDED BY SOY STREET, KANSU STREET. NATHAN ROAD AND FERRY STREET.
AT THE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE MEETING, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM. SEVERAL PROJECTS TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW IN TSIM SHA TSUI WILL BE DISCUSSED.
THE PROJECTS, SCHEDULED TO START IN LATE 1990, WILL INCLUDE SETTING UP A TRAFFIC GYRATORY SYSTEM AT MIDDLE ROAD AND THE WIDENING OF SALISBURY ROAD AND CANTON ROAD.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO BE BRIEFED ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS MADE IN THE NORTHWEST KOWLOON TRAFFIC STUDY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER BOTH MEETINGS. WHICH WILL BE HELD ON MONDAY IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF YAU TSIM DISTRICT OFFICE. SECOND FLOOR, 190 NATHAN ROAD. THE TTC MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM. AND THE DISTRICT BOARD MEETING AT 4 PM.
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KWAI TSING ARTS FESTIVAL PROGRAMME TO BE ANNOUNCED *****
MORE THAN 30 EVENTS HAVE BEEN LINED UP FOR THE THIRD KWAI TSING ARTS FESTIVAL FROM MID-DECEMBER TO EARLY NEXT YEAR.
THE OPENING CEREMONY IS SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER 17.
THE FESTIVAL IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD. DISTRICT OFFICE. DISTRICT ARTS AND CULTURE CO-ORDINATING ASSOCIATION AND REGIONAL COUNC1L WITH A BUDGET OF ABOUT 9500.000.
THE PROGRAMME INCLUDES FOREIGN AND LOCAL MOVIES. CHINESE OPERA. TRADITIONAL FOLK DANCE. MODERN DANCE. DRAMA. CHINESE ORCHESTRA PERFORMANCE. AS WELL AS PUPPET AND MAGIC SHOWS.
/THE ORGANISING
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1989
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THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A PRESS CONFERENCE ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 13) TO ANNOUNCE FULL DETAILS OF THE PROGRAMME. DATES OF TICKET BOOKING AND A CONCESSIONARY TICKET SCHEME.
PRESENT WILL BE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MR LEUNG KWONG-CHEONG: KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICER. MR PAUL TANG: AND DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR LEE WING-TAT.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE KWAI TSING ARTS FESTIVAL PRESS CONFERENCE WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 11.30 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 13) AT THE LOTUS ROOM. ROYAL GARDEN HOTEL. TSIM SHA TSUI EAST.
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ENVIRONMENTAL THEME FOR NORTH DISTRICT CARNIVAL
* * * » t
A CARNIVAL. ORGANISED IN SUPPORT OF THIS YEAR’S WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY AND THE TERRITORY-WIDE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN. WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AFTERNOON AT THE FANL1NG RECREATION GROUND.
IT WILL TAKE PLACE FROM 2 PM TO 5 PM. ADMISSION IS FREE.
THE CARNIVAL WILL INCLUDE A PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION. WALLBOARD PAINTINGS. GAMES STALLS AND PERFORMANCES BY A CHILDREN’S CHOIR AND DANCE TROUPES.
"THESE ACTIVITIES ARE ALL AIMED AT BRINGING HOME TO NORTH DISTRICT RESIDENTS THE IMPORTANCE OF PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT AND KEEPING IT CLEAN." A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ORGANISING WORKING GROUP SAID.
HAVING THE THEME OF "BEAUTIFUL ENVIRONMENT IN NORTH DISTRICT". THE EXHIBITION WILL COMPRISE COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHS OF SCENIC SPOTS AS WELL AS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT WORKS IN THE DISTRICT.
ABOUT 300 STUDENTS FROM 14 PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT TOOK PART IN THE WALLBOARD PAINTING EXERCISE.
BOOKMARKS. PUBLICITY PAMPHLETS. SOUVENIRS AND GIFTS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO PARTICIPANTS AND VISITORS.
THE EVENT HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY A WORKING GROUP UNDER THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD. WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE BOARD AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL.
/OFFICIATING AT .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1989
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR RAYMOND PANG: NORTH DISTRICT OFFICER. MR WILLIAM HUI: FIRST VICE-CHAIRMAN OF HEUNG YEE KUK. MR LIU CHING-LEUNG; CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL’S ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE SELECT COMMITTEE. MR PANG HOK-TUEN: AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD'S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE. MR LAW CHAK-TONG.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CARNIVAL TOMORROW (SUNDAY) IN THE FANLING RECREATION GROUND. THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE HELI) AT 2 PM.
- - 0 - -
ACAF MEMBERS VISIT SHAM WAN FISH CULTURE ZONE » » » * *
MEMBERS OF THE AQUACULTURE SUB-COMMITTEE OF THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES SPENT THE MORNING TODAY (SATURDAY) SEEING FOR THEMSELVES OPERATIONS OF THE LOCAL MARICULTURE INDUSTRY.
ACCOMPANIED BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (FISHERIES) OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT, DR CHRISTOPHER LEE. MEMBERS OF THE SUB-COMMITTEE. INCLUDING CHAIRMAN MR ANDREW WONG AND VICE-CHAIRMAN MR SO MOON-CHEUNG. VISITED THE SHAM WAN FISH CULTURE ZONE IN THE EASTERN NEW TERRITORIES. ONE OF THE 28 DESIGNATED FISH CULTURE ZONES UNDER THE MARINE FISH CULTURE ORDINANCE.
THEY WERE BRIEFED ON THE CURRENT SITUATION OF THE MARICULTURE INDUSTRY AND THE AFD’S CONTINUED EFFORT TO PROVIDE TECHNICAL AND EXTENSION SERVICES TO HELP MARICULTURI STS IN INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY.
MEMBERS WERE TOLD THAT THE TOTAL MARICULTURE PRODUCTION IN 1988 AMOUNTED TO 3,280 TONNES, VALUED AT S222 MILLION.
THEY ALSO LEARNT THAT A GOVERNMENT-COMMISSIONED CONSULTANCY STUDY TO CONDUCT AN OVERALL REVIEW ON MARICULTURE HAD STARTED THIS MONTH AND WOULD TAKE SIX MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
TO GAIN MORE FIRST-HAND INFORMATION ON AQUACUI,TURE OPERATIONS, THE GROUP HAS SCHEDULED A VISIT TO FISH PONDS IN YUEN LONG LATER THIS MONTH.
/1U
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 11. 1989
14
PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY ZONE IN CHEUNG CHAU t * » t «
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT IN ORDER TO ENHANCE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY, THE SECTION OF CHURCH ROAD BETWEEN CHEUNG CHAU RURAL COMMITTEE OFFICE AND OUR LADY OF FATIMA CHURCH ON CHEUNG CHAU WILL BE DESIGNATED A 24-HOUR DAILY PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY ZONE FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 13).
SUBJECT TO A DIRECTION GIVEN BY A POLICE OFFICER IN UNIFORM OR A TRAFFIC WARDEN IN UNIFORM. THE DRIVER OF A VEHICLE SHALL GIVE WAY TO A PEDESTRIAN WITHIN THE PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY ZONE.
- - 0 - -
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
I___________________ ____________________
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES
BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
PRINCE OF WALES, GOVERNOR LAY WREATHS AT REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY..................................................... 1
WAN CHAI DISTRICT FESTIVAL WELL RECEIVED.................... 1
ICAC DELEGATION OFF FOR SYDNEY CONFERENCE................... 2
MORE TRADERS JOIN DISKETTE SUBMISSION SCHEME................ J
PUBLIC FORUM ON MID-LEVELS ROAD CORRIDOR ................... 4
WINDY, AND LOW RAINFALL IN OCTOBER.......................... 5
RENOWNED MUSICIANS PERFORM IN YOUTH STRING MUSIC FESTIVAL .. 8
POSTER, SINGING CONTESTS TO COMBAT DELINQUENCY ............. 9
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS WORKS REPORTS ...................... 10
FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS ............ 11
CHINA PLAYERS TO COMPETE IN FESTIVAL MATCH.................. 11
INTERFERENCE TESTING OF NEV/ RTHK FREQUENCIES .............. 12
2A-H0UR WATER ENQUIRY HOTLINES IN SERVICE................... 12
URBAN CLEARWAYS IN TSIM SHA TSJI ........................... 15
URBAN CLEARWAYS IN YAU MA TEI
15
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER I 2. 1989
1
PRINCE OF WALES. GOVERNOR LAY WREATHS AT REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY
THE PRINCE OF WALES. AND THE GOVERNOR. SIR DAVID WILSON. LAID WREATHS AT THE CENOTAPH IN STATUE SQUARE THIS (SUNDAY) MORNING TO HONOUR THOSE WHO HAD GIVEN THEIR LIVES ON ACTIVE SERVICE.
THE SOLEMN CEREMONY MARKING REMEMBRANCE DAY BEGAN AT 11 AM WITH THE FIRING OF A GUN AT HMS TAMAR WHICH SIGNALLED THE OBSERVANCE OF TWO MINUTES’ SILENCE.
AT THE FIRING OF A SECOND GUN. BUGLERS OF THE 2ND BATTALION SECOND KING EDWARD SEVENTH’S OWN GURKHA RIFLES (THE S1RMOOR RIFLES) SOUNDED THE "LAST POST".
WREATHS WERE ALSO LAID BY THE CHIEF JUSTICE. SIR TI LIANG YANG: THE COMMANDER BRITISH FORCES. MAJOR GENERAL PETER DUFFELL: REPRESENTATIVES OF THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS: COMMONWEALTH REPRESENTATIVES: THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, MR RAYMON ANNING; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL. MR GERRY FORSGATE; THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL. MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG: AND CHAIRMEN OF DISTRICT BOARDS.
THIS WAS FOLLOWED BY LAYING OF WREATHS BY SERVICE COMMANDERS, AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, SERVICE UNITS, COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS. EX-SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATIONS. SOCIETIES AND OTHER BODIES.
------0 -------
WAN CHAI DISTRICT FESTIVAL WELL RECEIVED
RESPONSE FROM WAN CHAI RESIDENTS TO THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT FESTIVAL WAS ENTHUSI AST IC. AND THE VARIOUS EVENTS ON THE PROGRAMME WERE WELL RECEIVED. THE DISTRICT OFFICER. MR PETER MANN. SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE FESTIVAL CLOSING CEREMONY HELD IN THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM. MR MANN SAID THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME AIMED TO ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS TO TAKE AN ACTIVE INTEREST IN DISTRICT AFFAIRS AND CONTRIBUTE IDEAS FOR IMPROVEMENTS.
"WAN CHAI RESIDENTS HAVE REMONSTRATED FULLY TN THE FESTIVAL THEIR ACTIVE NATURE AND A KEEN SENSE OF CO-OPERATION." HE NOTED.
SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY. THE SENIOR MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. MR ALLEN LEE. SAID THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL HAD FOSTERED A BETTER. UNDERSTANDING OF THE DISTRICT AMONG RESIDENTS AND ENHANCED THEIR SENSE OF BELONGING AND ALSO HELPED PROMOTE THE SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY BUILDING.
/NOTING THAT .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1989
2
NOTING THAT THE DISTRICT HAS BECOME AN IMPORTANT CENTRE FOR CULTURAL ACTIVITIES AND COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS IN THE TERRITORY. HE URGED RESIDENTS TO CONTRIBUTE TO MAINTAINING THE VITALITY OF THE DISTRICT.
ABOUT 30 EVENTS. INCLUDING CULTURAL. RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES. WERE OFFERED TO THE 200.000 RESIDENTS IN WAN CHAI DURING THE FESTIVAL WHICH BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18.
THE MOST POPULAR EVENTS WERE A "MUSIC BUS PARADE". "DISCO NIGHT". EXHIBITIONS OF HISTORICAL PICTURES OF THE DISTRICT. AND TRADITIONAL CHINESE ARTISTIC PERFORMANCES.
THE BUDGET FOR THE FESTIVAL WAS ABOUT $700,000.
THE CLOSING CEREMONY WAS FOLLOWED BY A DEMONSTRATION OF* CHINESE MARTIAL ARTS AND RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS BY ATHLETES FROM GUANGDONG PROVINCE WHO WERE INVITED SPECIALLY FOR THE OCCASION.
ALSO ATTENDING THE CLOSING CEREMONY WERE WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MRS PEGGY LAM: CHAIRMAN OF THE WAN CHAI FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MR RAYMOND CHOW: AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBER. MR CHAN YING-LUN.
-----0-----
I
ICAC DELEGATION OFF FOR SYDNEY CONFERENCE I
I
THE COMMISSIONER 01 THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION. MR DAVID JEAFIRESON. AND THREE SENIOR ICAC OFFICIALS LEFT FOR SYDNEY LAST (NOVEMBER 11) NIGHT TO ATTEND THE FOURTH INTERNATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION CONFERENCE.
HF WAS ACCOMPANIED BY THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS. MR JIM BUCKLE: DIRECTOR OF CORRUPTION PREVENTION, MR TONY SCOTT: ANI) DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS. Ml? LEUNG CHIN-MAN.
BEING HOSTED BY THE AUSTRALIAN DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND ATTORNEY GENERAL. MR LIONEL BOWEN. THE SIX-DAY CONFERENCE BEGINS? TODAY WITH THE THEME OF PLANNING STRATEGIES TO COMBAT AND PREVENT CORRUPTION TN THE 1990’S.
MR JEAFFRESON WILL DELIVER A KEYNOTE ADDRESS ON "THE IMPORTANCE OF A THREE-PRONGED ATTACK ON CORRUPTION AND AN ASSESSMENT OF ITS EFFECTIVENESS" TOMORROW.
THE COMMISSIONER AND THE OTHER ICAC DELEGATES WILL PART IN SEPARATE PANEL DISCUSSIONS ON VARIOUS TOPICS.
ALSO TAKE
/OTHER SPEAKERS .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1989
OTHER SPEAKERS AND COMMENTATORS AT THE CONFERENCE WILL INCLUDE GRAFT-FIGHTERS FROM THE UNITED STATES. SINGAPORE, THE UNITED KINGDOM, THE NETHERLANDS. MACAU. MEXICO. PUERTO RICO. PAPUA NEW GUINEA AND THE UNITED NATIONS.
THE CONCEPT OF AN INTERNATIONAL ANT I-CORRUPTION CONFERENCE WAS FIRST CONSIDERED AT AN INTER-AGENCY DISCUSSION ON ANTI-CORRUPTION WORK HOSTED BY THE ICAC IN HONG KONG IN LATE 1981.
THE FIRST TWO CONFERENCES WERE HELD IN THE UNITED STATES IN 1983 AND 1985. THE THIRD. HOSTED BY THE IC AC IN HONG KONG TWO YEARS AGO. ATTRACTED MORE THAN 250 DELEGATES REPRESENTING 72 ORGAN ISA TONS FROM 32 COUNTRIES.
THE SUCCESS AND VALUE OF THESE CONFERENCES HAVE GAINED BROAD INTERNATIONAL ATTENTION. THEY SERVE TO STIMULATE THE GLOBAL EXCHANGE OT EXPERIENCE AND METHODOLOGY IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION. AND FOSTER INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATION AMONG AGENCIES FROM ALL PARTS OF THE WORLD.
---------------------0-------- MORE TRADERS JOIN DISKETTE SUBMISSION SCHEME t * ♦ ♦ ♦
WITH EFFECT FROM JULY 1 THIS YEAR, THE GOVERNMENT HAS OPERATED A DISKETTE SUBMISSION SCHEME TO PROVIDE TRADERS WITH AN ADDITIONAL OPTION TN SUBMITTING IMPORT AND EXPORT DECLARATIONS ON MICRO-COMPUTER DISKETTES.
THE PURPOSE OF THE SCHEME IS TO FACILITATE TRADERS IN PREPARING TRADE DECLARATIONS IN A MORE ACCURATE AND EFFICIENT WAY THROUGH THE USE OF COMPUTERS.
SINCE THE INTRODUCTION OF THE SCHEME. MORE AND MORE FIRMS HAVE ADOPTED THIS METHOD IN LODGING Till IR IMPORT AND EXPORT DECLARATIONS.
BY THE END OF OCTOBER, OVFR 2l<) FIRMS HAD ALREADY PARTICIPATED IN THE SCHEME AND SUBMITTED SOME 61.000 DECI.ARATIONS UNDER IT.
ACCORDING TO TRADERS USING THE GOVERNMENT’S SOFTWARE OR A SOFTWARE DEVELOPED IO Till MSI L\ IS WITH COMPARABLE FEATURES. Till Y HAVE REDUCED SIGNIFICANTLY THEIR TIME SPENT ON PREPARING IMPORT AND EXPORT DECLARATIONS.
FOR EXAMPLE, ONE: PARTICIPATING FIRM SUBMITTING MANY DECLARATIONS SAID IT HAD CUT BY MORI THAN HALE Till TIME SPENT ON DECLARATION PREPARATION WORK.
/MOREOVER, AS .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 198?
MOREOVER, AS THE SCHEME ENABLES THE COMPUTATION OF CHARGES AND CHECKING OF DECLARATIONS BY COMPUTERS AT THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT’S COLLECTION OFFICES, QUEUING TIME HAS BEEN GREATLY REDUCED.
IT TAKES. ON AVERAGE, LESS THAN FIVE MINUTES TO PROCESS 100 DECLARATIONS CONTAINED IN ONE DISKETTE.. WHEREAS IT TAKES ABOUT HALF A MINUTE TO PROCESS ONE DECLARATION UNDER THE MANUAL SYSTEM.
TRADERS SUBMITTING DECLARATIONS IN LARGE NUMBER HAVE FOUND THE SCHEME OF PARTICULAR CONVENIENCE TO THEM.
TO JOIN THE SCHEME. TRADERS ONLY NEED A MICRO-COMPUTER SYSTEM (WITH HARD DISK AND PRINTER) WHICH RUNS ON MS-DOS OF VERSION 2.0 AND HIGHER.
FOR TRADERS WHO HAVE NOT YET COMPUTERISED THEIR TRADE DOCUMENTATION WORK. THE GOVERNMENT HAS MADE AVAILABLE USER FRIENDLY SOFTWARE TO HELP THEM IN PREPARING IMPORT AND EXPORT DECLARATIONS USING MICRO-COMPUTERS AND AT THE SAME TIME PRODUCING OUTPUTS THAT MEET ALL THE FORMAT REQUIREMENTS SPECIFIED BY GOVERNMENT.
THE SOFTWARE. TOGETHER WITH THE OPERATION MANUAL. IS NOW AVAILABLE AT $110 PER SET FROM THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT. 18TH FLOOR. WANCHAI TOWER I. 12 HARBOUR ROAD. WAN CHAI.
TRADERS SHOULD BRING ALONG THEIR COMPANY CHOP IN THE COURSE OF PURCHASING THE SOFTWARE.
ALTERNATIVELY. TRADERS CAN DEVELOP THEIR OWN SOFTWARES TO JOIN THE SCHEME SO LONG AS THE OUTPUT FORMATS OF DECLARATION CONFORM TO THOSE SPECIFIED IN A GAZETTE NOTICE (GN 3747) ISSUED ON NOVEMBER 4. 1988.
ASSISTANCE IS BEING OFFERED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TO TRADERS INTERESTED IN JOINING THE SCHEME. A NUMBER OF SEMINARS AND DEMONSTRATIONS HAVE BEEN ORGANISED FOR SUCH PURPOSES AND MORE WILL BE HELD.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 5-8663196.
------0--------
PUBLIC FORUM ON MID-LEVELS ROAD CORRIDOR * * ♦ * ♦
MID-LEVELS RESIDENTS WILL BE ABLE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS TO ROAD NETWORKS IN THEIR DISTRICT AT A PUBLIC FORUM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 14) EVENING.
THE FORUM TO BE HELD IN ROOM 14 16. HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 road. JSStral wm EOCUS ON the engineering investigation for IMPROVEMENTS TO THE MID-LEVELS EAST-WEST ROAD CORRIDOR.
/SPEAKERS WILL
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1989
- 5 -
SPEAKERS WILL INCLUDE THE CONSULTANT ENGINEERS FROM PETER Y.S. PUN AND ASSOCIATES AND MVA CONSULTANCY. MR HUGH MCBRIDE AND MR JOHN SPIERS RESPECTIVELY, AS WELL AS A HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT SENIOR ENGINEER. MR MAK WAI-PUI.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE (TTC). MR LAM KIN-LAI, WILL GIVE BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON THE PROJECT.
THE TALKS WILL BE FOLLOWED BY A QUESTION-AND-ANSWER SESSION.
A DECISION TO ORGANISE THE FORUM WAS MADE AT A TTC MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 6. WHEN THE FEASIBILITY STUDY WAS FIRST PUT TO THE DISTRICT BOARD FOR CONSULTATION.
MEMBERS GENERALLY FELT THAT MID-LEVELS RESIDENTS SHOULD BE GIVEN A CHANCE TO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS ON THE PLANS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE PUBLIC FORUM ON THE ENGINEERING FEASIBILITY INVESTIGATION FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE MIDLEVELS EAST-WEST ROAD CORRIDOR. IT WILL BEGIN AT 7 PM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 14) IN ROOM 1416. HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD. CENTRAL.
------0--------
WINDY. AND LOW RAINFALL IN OCTOBER t ♦ t ♦ t
OCTOBER WAS RATHER WINDY WITH THE TROPICAL CYCLONE STRONG WIND SIGNAL NO. 3 HOISTED ON THREE OCCASIONS AND THE STRONG MONSOON SIGNAL HOISTED ON FOUR OTHER OCCASIONS. ACCORDING TO THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY’S MONTHLY REPORT RELEASED TODAY (SUNDAY).
THERE WERE ALTOGETHER FOUR TROPICAL CYCLONES TRAVERSING I HI-NORTHERN PART OF THE SOUTH CHINA SEA DURING THE MONTH. HOWEVER. THEY ALL PASSED WESTWARDS. TO THE SOUTH Ol HONG KONG WITH THEIR MAJOR RAINBANDS STOPPING SHORT OF THE SOUTH ('HINA COASTAL AREAS.
AS A RESULT. THE TOTAL RAINFALL FOR THE MONTH AMOUNTED TO ONLY 15.2 MILLIMETRES, A FRACTION OF THE NORMAL FIGURE OF 121. 2 MILLIMETRES.
THE TOTAL RAINFALL SINCE JANUARY 1 STOOD AT 1.884.1 MILLIMETRES. WHICH IS 13 PER CENT BELOW THE NORMAL AMOUNT OF 2.164.7 MILLIMETRES FOR THE SAME PERIOD.
/THE MONTH ........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1989
- 6
THE MONTH OPENED WITH TYPHOON BRIAN CROSSING THE NORTHERN PART OF THE SOUTH CHINA SEA AND A SURGE OF THE WINTER MONSOON AFFECTING EASTERN CHINA. UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF BRIAN. THE WEATHER IN HONG KONG DURING THE FIRST TWO DAYS OF THE MONTH WAS CLOUDY AND WINDY WITH LIGHT RAIN.
BRIAN MOVED AWAY AND LANDED OVER NORTHERN VIETNAM ON OCTOBER 3. BUT THE WINTER MONSOON MAINTAINED A STRONG EASTERLY AIRSTREAM OVER THE COASTAL AREA OF SOUTHERN CHINA.
WINDS MODERATED ON OCTOBER 4 AND THE WEATHER GRADUALLY IMPROVED OVER THE NEXT TWO DAYS.
WITH MODERATE WINDS AND PLENTY OF SUNSHINE, TEMPERATURES ON OCTOBER 6 CLIMBED TO A MAXIMUM OF 30.9 DEGREES, THE HIGHEST FOR THE MONTH. WINDS TURNED NORTHERLY ON OCTOBER 7 AND THE RELATIVE HUMIDITY DROPPED WITH TEMPERATURES ON A GENTLE DOWNWARD TREND FOR THE NEXT FEW DAYS.
MEANWHILE, TYPHOON ANGELA HAD MOVED INTO THE SOUTH CHINA SEA AND ITS WESTWARD PASSAGE TO VIETNAM BROUGHT CLOUDIER WEATHER AND A TRACE OF RAINFALL ON OCTOBER 8.
WINDS TURNED EASTERLY AND INCREASED IN STRENGTH ON OCTOBER 8. STRONG WINDS PERSISTED UNTIL THE MORNING ON OCTOBER 10 AND BRIGHTER WEATHER SET IN DURING THE AFTERNOON.
WHILE THE COASTAL AREAS OF SOUTH CHINA ENJOYED A FINE DAY ON OCTOBER 11, TYPHOON DAN SWEPT ACROSS SOUTHERN LUZON AND ENTERED THE SOUTH CHINA SEA. CLOUDY AND WINDY CONDITIONS PREVAILED THE FOLLOWING DAY AS DAN MOVED TOWARDS HAINAN ISLAND.
STRONG EASTERLIES SET IN ON OCTOBER 12 AND WERE PROLONGED BY THE WINTER MONSOON BEFORE EVENTUALLY SUBSIDING ON OCTOBER 14. FINE WEATHER THEN RETURNED AND PERSISTED FOR THE NEXT FEW DAYS.
DURING THE EVENING ON OCTOBER. 16. A COLD FRONT CROSSED THE SOUTH CHINA COAST AND BROUGHT STRONG NORTHERLY WINDS AND A FEW THUNDERSTORMS TO THE OFFSHORE AREAS. THE LOCAL WEATHER BECAME NOTICEABLY COOLER DURING THE NEXT FEW DAYS.
A FURTHER REPLENISHMENT OF COOL AIR ARRIVED FROM THE NORTH ON OCTOBER 19 AND BY THE FOLLOWING MORNING. TEMPERATURES HAD DROPPED FURTHER TO A MINIMUM OF 19.1 DEGREES, THE LOWEST FOR THE MONTH.
APART FROM SOME ISOLATED THUNDERSTORMS AND LIGHT RAIN DURING THE PASSAGE OF THE COLD FRONT. THE DRY CONTINENTAL AIR BROUGHT BASICALLY FINE WEATHER TO HONG KONG DURING THE PERIOD OCTOBER 18 TO 20.
WITH THE APPROACH OF TYPHOON ELSIE. THE WEATHER TURNED CLOUDY AGAIN ON OCTOBER 21. HOWEVER. ELSIE HAD A SMALL CIRCULATION AND MOVED WESTWARDS ACROSS THE SOUTH CHINA SEA WITHOUT CAUSING ANY NEED TO HOIST TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING SIGNALS IN HONG KONG.
/LOCALLY, WINDS ........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1989
LOCALLY. WINDS ONLY INCREASED MARGINALLY AND FINE WEATHER RETURNED QUICKLY ON OCTOBER 22.
UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A RIDGE OF HIGH PRESSURE OVER SOUTH CHINA. FINE WEATHER PREVAILED FROM OCTOBER 23 TO 28. HOWEVER. STABLE CONDITIONS AND INCREASING MOISTURE IN THE LOWER ATMOSPHERE GAVE RISE TO PERIODS OF HAZE AND POOR VISIBILITY FROM OCTOBER 25 TO 28.
A WEAK SURGE OF COOL AIR FROM THE EAST BROUGHT CLOUDINESS AND PATCHES OF LIGHT RAIN EARLY ON OCTOBER 29. CLOUDS BROKE DURING THE DAY. FINE BUT HAZY WEATHER THEN PERSISTED TILL THE END OF THE MONTH.
DURING THE MONTH OF OCTOBER. NO AIRCRAFT WERE DIVERTED DUE TO ADVERSE WEATHER. A THUNDERSTORM WARNING WAS ISSUED ON OCTOBER 16. THE RED FIRE DANGER WARNING WAS IN EFFECT ON OCTOBER 7 AND 8 AND YELLOW FIRE DANGER WARNINGS WERE ISSUED FOR OCTOBER 6 TO 10, 14. 15 AND 20 TO 22.
A TOTAL OF SIX TROPICAL CYCLONES OCCURRED OVER THE WESTERN NORTH PACIFIC AND THE SOUTH CHINA SEA DURING THE MONTH.
SIGNALS HOISTED DURING THE MONTH WERE AS FOLLOWS:
WEATHER SYSTEM SIGNAL DATE AND TIME OE HOISTING DATE AND TIME OF LOWERING
TYPHOON 1 SEPTEMBER 30 OCTOBER 1
BRIAN 5.1 0 PM 3.45 PM
OCTOBER 1 OCTOBER 2
3.15 PM 12 NOON
WINTER. STRONG OCTOBER 2 OCTOBER 4
MONSOON MONSOON 12 NOON 9.45 AM
TYPHOON 1 OCTOBER 6 OCTOBER 7
ANGELA 8.50 PM 9 PM
3 OCTOBER 7 OCTOBER 9
9 PM 9.45 AM
W1NTER STRONG OCTOBER 9 OCTOBER 10
MONSOON MONSOON 9.15 AM 10.05 AM
TYPHOON 1 OCTOBER 11 OCTOBER 12
DAN 8 PM 5 AM
OCTOBER 12 OCTOBER 13
5 AM 6.30 AM
WINTER STRONG OCTOBER 13 OCTOBER 14
MONSOON MONSOON 6.30 AM 12 NOON
WINTER STRONG OCTOBER 19 OCTOBER 20
MONSOON MONSOON 8.30 PM 9.45 AM
/THE MONTH'S........
t
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1?, 1989
- 8 -
THE MONTH’S FIGURES AND DEPARTURES FROM
TOTAL BRIGHT SUNSHINE
195.4 HOURS
MEAN DAILY GLOBAL SOLAR RADIATION
TOTAL RAINFALL
MEAN AMOUNT OF CLOUD
MEAN RELATIVE HUMIDITY
MEAN DAILY MAXIMUM
AIR TEMPERATURE
MEAN AIR TEMPERATURE
MEAN DAILY MINIMUM AIR TEMPERATURE
MEAN DEW POINT
TOTAL EVAPORATION
13.86 MJ/SQUARE METRE
15.2 MM
56%
73%
27.3 DEGREES CELSIUS
25.1 DEGREES CELSIUS
23.4 DEGREES CELSIUS
19.7 DEGREES CELSIUS
129.2 MM
NORMAL WERE:
14.5 HOURS BELOW NORMAL
1.98 MJ/SQUARE METRE BELOW NORMAL
106.0 MM BELOW NORMAL
4% MORE THAN NORMAL
1% HIGHER THAN NORMAL
0.6 DEGREE CELSIUS BELOW NORMAL
0.1 DEGREE CELSIUS ABOVE NORMAL
0.7 DEGREE CELSIUS ABOVE NORMAL
0.4 DEGREE CELSIUS ABOVE NORMAL
29.7 MM BELOW NORMAL
-------0---------
RENOWNED MUSICIANS PERFORM IN YOUTH STRING MUSK’ FESTIVAL
* t t t t
THE BRILLIANT PERFORMANCE OF TWO RENOWNED MUSICIANS FROM THE UNITED STATES. MS XIAO HONGME1 AND MR IVAN CHAN. XT THE CITY HALL CONCERT HALL TODAY (SUNDAY) WON APPLAUSE FROM OVER 1.000 LOCAL YOUNG STRING PLAYERS.
THE PERFORMANCE WAS ORGANISED BY THE MUSH’ OFFICE AS PART OF Till PROGRAMME OF THE INTERFLOW CONCERT WHICH RAISED THE CURTAIN ON THE 1989 HONG KONG YOUTH STRING MUSIC FESTIVAL.
ALSO TAKING PART IN Till CONCERT WERE NINE STRING ORCHESTRAS KEI WAN PRIMARY SCHOOL STRING ORCHESTRA. HONG KONG MUSIC INSTITUTE YOUTH ORCHESTRA. ST STEPHEN’S GIRLS’ COLLEGE STRING ORCHESTRA. ST PAUL’S CO-EDUCATIONAL COLLEGE STRING ORCHESTRA AND FIVE ORCHESTRAS FROM THE MUSIC OFFICE.
PIECES PRESENTED BY THE YOUNG MUSICIANS INCLUDED TELEMANN’S "CONCERTO POLONAISE". TSCHAIKOVSKY’S "SERENADE FOR STRINGS" AND WARLOCK’S "CAPRIOL SUITE FOR STRING ORCHESTRA”.
/THE MUSIC ........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1989
PRESFNTPn qopvLtd RAT0R °F THB MUSIC 0FFICE' MRS AGNES ALLCOCK, c,THm^T^r„SOUVE R PENNANTS to the representatives of orchestras at the commencement of the concert in I OF THEIR SUPPORT OF THE FESTIVAL.
THE FOUR RECOGNITION
IT's FTrMTEnIvU™ STRING FESTIVAL WILL CLOSE ON NOVEMBER 7v'ir>FJM?T7EA' COURSE- A SERIES OF MASTER CLASSES BY MR OFFICE’S MUSIC CeJ?res°NGMEI <VI°LA’ WILL BE C0NDUCTED AT
19. DURING IVAN CHAN THE MUSIC
THE CHAMBER
THE CLIMAX OF THE FESTIVAL WILL BE
AND THE I'ESTIVAL CONCERT DURING WHICH THE TWO GUEST ELITE STRING PLAYERS OF THE MUSIC OFFICE WILL PRESENT PIECES AS ROSSINI'S "SONATA NO.2 IN A MAJOR SAINT-SAENS’S "CONCERTO IN B MINOR NO.3 FOR VIOLIN AND STAMITZ S ’CONCERTO IN D MAJOR FOR VIOLA AND ORCHESTRA
MUSIC CONCERT
MUSICIANS AND SUCH CLASSICAL FOR STRINGS", ORCHESTRA" AND
THE TWO CONCERTS WILL BE HELD AT THE APA I IN TOWN HALL AUDITORIUM AT 8 PM ON NOVEMBER 18
DRAMA THEATRE AND SHA AND 19 RESPECTIVELY.
.nHCKETS F0R THE TU'° CONCERTS AT $10 AND $20 EACH AT ALL URBT1X OUTLETS. TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE
ARE NOW
MADE ON
-----------------------0-------- POSTER. SINGING CONTESTS TO COMBAT DELINQUENCY ♦ t * * t
THE YAU TSIM DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE IS ORGANISING A POSTER DESIGN CONTEST AND A SINGING CONTEST WITH THE OBJECTIVE OF REMINDING YOUNG PEOPLE TO BE LAW-ABIDING CITIZENS.
"THE THEME OF ENTRIES IN THE POSTER DESIGN CONTEST SHOULD AIM AT ENCOURAGING YOUNGSTERS TO ABIDE BY THE LAW, NOT TO BREAK IT." A SPOKESMAN FOR THE COMMITTEE SAID.
POSTERS SHOULD MEASURE 38 CENTIMETRES BY 58 CENTIMETRES, AND PARTICIPANTS CAN SUBMIT MORE THAN ONE ENTRY.
THERE WILL BE TWO SECTIONS — ONE FOR STUDENTS AND ONE OPEN.
THE THREE MAIN WINNERS IN THE OPEN SECTION WILL BE AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS OF $1,000, $800 AND $500 RESPECTIVELY. THE PRIZES IN THE STUDENTS SECTION ARE WORTH $500. $300 AND $150. THERE WILL ALSO BE PRIZES FOR OUTSTANDING ENTRIES.
ENTRIES SHOULD BE SUBMITTED BEFORE DECEMBER 8 TO THE YAU TSIM DISTRICT OFFICE AT 190 NATHAN ROAD. ITS TSIM SHA TSUI SUB-OFFICE AT 40 CARNARVON ROAD, OR THE ACTIVITY CENTRE OF THE YAU MA TEI AND TSIM SHA TSUI CULTURE AND ARTS ASSOCIATION AT 33 SALISBURY ROAD.
/THE SINGING .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1989
10
THE SINGING CONTEST IS OPEN TO ALL AMATEURS WHO HAVE NOT WON A PRIZE IN A SIMILAR EVENT,
AN AUDITION WILL BE HELD IN DECEMBER, AND THE FINALS WILL BE STAGED AT THE KO SHAN THEATRE ON FEBRUARY 4.
ATTRACTIVE PRIZES AND TROPHIES WILL BE AWARDED TO THE THREE MAIN WINNERS AND TO THE PERSON WHO GIVES THE BEST STAGE PERFORMANCE. >• '
ENROLMENT FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND SUB-OFFICE AND THE 1 AU MA TEI JUNIOR POLICE CALL AT 182 CANTON ROAD, AND SHOULD BE RETURNED BEFORE DECEMBER 8.
FURTHER INFORMATION ON BOTH CONTESTS CAN BE OBTAINED BY TELEPHONING 3-681908 OR 3-322716.
-------o ---------
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS WORKS REPORTS
* * * t *
THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD'S WORKS PROJECTS COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS A NUMBER OF PROGRESS REPORTS ON WORKS PROJECTS IN DISTRICT AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (MONDAY).
THE REPORTS COVER BUILDING, PUBLIC HOUSING, ENGINEERING PROJECTS, AS WELL AS PROJECTS BEING URBAN COUNCIL.
HIGHWAY AND OTHER
UNDERTAKEN BY THE
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD'S WORKS PROJECTS IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM. SECOND FLOOR, NING STREET, ABERDEEN CENTRE.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2 . :!(> PM.
TO (OVER THF MEETING OF THE COMMITTEE TOMORROW (MONDAY)
MEI FUNG COURT. 7-11 NAM
-------o----------
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1989
11
FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS * * * t *
RESIDENTS’ ORGANISATIONS AND LOCAL BODIES IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT ARE INVITED TO APPLY FOR SUBSIDIES FROM THE COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE OF THE DISTRICT BOARD TO ORGANISE FESTIVE ACTIVITIES DURING LUNAR NEW YEAR.
A SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) THE COMMITTEE WOULD SET ASIDE ABOUT $66,000 FOR SPONSORING NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS IN THE DISTRICT’S SEVEN AREAS.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO CALLED ON ORGANISATIONS IN THE DISTRICT TO APPLY FOR SUBSIDIES FOR CARRYING OUT COMMUNITY BUILDING PROJECTS.
THESE CAN BE DISTRICT-BASED CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL OR SPORTS EVENTS, SEMINARS, SURVEYS AND EXHIBITIONS, AND SHOULD BE AIMED AT PROMOTING COMMUNITY SPIRIT, AND SOCIAL COHESION.
FOR OTHER INFORMATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES, INTERESTED PARTIES MAY REFER TO THE GUIDELINES ON APPLYING FOR SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS.
COPIES OF THE GUIDELINES AND APPLICATION FORMS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE SECRETARY OF THE COMMITTEE, MISS LEONIE MONG, AT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE, SECOND FLOOR, MEI FUNG COURT, 7-11 NAM NING STREET, ABERDEEN CENTRE.
THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS DECEMBER 5.
---------------------0------- CHINA PLAYERS TO COMPETE IN FESTIVAL MATCH *****
TWO OUTSTANDING YOUNG BADMINTON PLAYERS FROM FUJIAN PROVINCE WILL BE PLAYING AGAINST YOUNG LOCAL PLAYERS NEXT WEEK.
THEY ARE MR WONG HING-TAT (19) AND MISS CHONG LING (18), BOTH OF WHOM HAVE WON MANY PRIZES ON THE MAINLAND.
THEY HAVE BEEN INVITED TO TAKE PART AT A TOURNAMENT, WHICH WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL AS PART OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
LOCAL PLAYERS PARTICIPATING AT THE TOURNAMENT WILL INCLUDE WONG WAI-LAP. CHENG YIN-S1K. CHAN SIU-KWONG, TSUI MEI-SEE, CHAN WING-KIT, NG LEUNG-WAH, CHOW KIM-MAN AND SHUM MAN-KIN.
FREE TICKETS TO THE TOURNAMENT ARE AVAILABLE AT THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 3-222261.
------0-------
/12......
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 12, 1989
- 12 -
INTERFERENCE TESTING OF NEW RTHK FREQUENCIES
******
A SPECIAL TEST FLIGHT WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE EARLY HOURS OF TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 14) TO ENABLE RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG AND THE CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT TO ENSURE THAT RTHK’S NEW VHF/FM BROADCAST TRANSMISSIONS TO BE INTRODUCED BY THE END OF THIS YEAR WILL NOT INTERFERE WITH THE EXISTING RADIO NAVIGATIONAL FACILITIES.
THE NAVIGATIONAL TRANSMISSIONS ARE MADE IN ADJACENT FREQUENCIES FOR THE GUIDANCE OF AIRCRAFT LEAVING OR APPROACHING HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT EXPLAINED TODAY (SUNDAY) THAT THE FLIGHTS WOULD BE CARRIED OUT BETWEEN 2 AM AND 5.30 AM WHEN THERE WERE NO BROADCASTS ON THE EXISTING FREQUENCIES AND NO PUBLIC TRANSPORT FLIGHTS WERE SCHEDULED AT KAI TAK.
HE SAID THE TEST FLIGHT. WHICH WILL INVOLVE SEVERAL FLY-PASTS OF LESS THAN TWO MINUTES EACH, IS TO BE CONDUCTED BY A SPECIALLY INSTRUMENTED JET AIRCRAFT OF THE FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION OF THE UNITED STATES.
DURING THE TEST FLIGHT RESIDENTS IN CERTAIN AREAS IN THE TERRITORY WILL EXPERIENCE VARYING DEGREES OF AIRCRAFT NOISE.
THESE ARFAS WILL INCLUDE THE SOUTHERN TIP OF TSING YI. MEI FOO SUN CIIUEN. SHAM SHU1 PO. KOWLOON TONG. KOWLOON CITY, KWUN TONG, HENG FA CHUEN, LEI KING WAN, TAIKOO SHING, CHAI WAN. SHEK O. STANLEY AND LAMMA ISLAND.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT FOUR PRELIMINARY TEST FLIGHTS BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE HAD ALREADY BEEN CARRIED OUT LAST MONTH.
-------0----------
24-HOUR WATER ENQUIRY HOTLINES IN SERVICE »**♦»«
INFORMATION ON WATER THE TELEPHONE ENQUIRY
MEMBERS OF' THE PUBLIC MAY NOW OBTAIN ACCOUNT MATTERS ROUND THE CLOCK BY CALLING HOTLINES Of THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT.
AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE ANSWERING MACHINES. WITH PRE-RECORDED MESSAGES ON WATER ACCOUNT INFORMATION. ARE OPERATING ON THE HOTLINES 5-8900221 <12 LINES) AFTER OFFICE HOURS.
THE INFORMATION COVERS COMMON CAUSES FOR HEFTY BILLS. CHANGE OF CONSUMERSHIP. CLOSING OF ACCOUNTS AND REFUND OF DEPOSITS.
THE HOTLINES WILL BE MANNED BY OFFICERS OF THE DEPARTMENT DURING OFFICE HOURS. THEY WILL BE CONNECTED TO THE ANSWERING MACHINES AUTOMATICALLY WHEN ALL THE LINES ARE ENGAGED.
/-»?..........
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 12, 1989
- 13 -
URBAN CLEARWAYS IN TSIM SHA TSUI » » « ♦ »
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 14), CERTAIN SECTIONS OF CANTON ROAD IN TSIM SHA TSUI WILL BE DESIGNATED URBAN CLEARWAYS.
THEY ARE:
» THE KERBSIDE LANE OF THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF CANTON ROAD. FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH KOWLOON PARK DRIVE TO A POINT ABOUT 65 METRES NORTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION (FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY).
» THE KERBSIDE LANE OF THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF CANTON ROAD, FROM A POINT ABOUT 120 METRES NORTH OF ITS JUNCTION WITH KOWLOON PARK DRIVE TO A POINT ABOUT 235 METRES NORTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION (24-HOUR DAILY).
» THE KERBSIDE LANE OF THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF CANTON ROAD, FROM A POINT ABOUT 30 METRES NORTH OF ITS JUNCTION WITH AUSTIN ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 115 METRES SOUTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION: AND THE SECTION OF TRAFFIC LANE IMMEDIATELY TO THE EAST OF THE VERGE AT THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF CANTON ROAD OUTSIDE CHINA FERRY TERMINAL (FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY).
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.
-------0 ---------
URBAN CLEARWAYS IN YAU MA TEI » t * » *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 14). CERTAIN AREAS IN PARKES STREET. YAU MA TEI. WILL BE DESIGNATED URBAN CLEARWAYS FROM 7 AM TO MIDNIGHT DAILY.
THEY ARE:
t THE EASTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF PARKES STREET BETWEEN NANKING STREET AND JORDAN ROAD: AND
♦ THE WESTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF PARKES STREET BETWEE\t JUNCTION WITH JORDAN ROAD AND A POINT ABOUT 15 METRES NORTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION.
NO VEHICLES 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
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR OPENS FIRST HOMES IN NEW TOWN ...................... 1
HK'S DEMAND FOR SCIENCE, ENGINEERING GRADUATES CERTAIN TO
GROW ...................................................... 2
MORE RESOURCES FOR TERTIARY EDUCATION........................ 4
TFT .A EXPRESSES REGRET OVER CHIEF CENSOR'S DEATH ........... 5
TRADE DELEGATION TO ATTEND MINISTERIAL MEETING IN TOKYO...... 6
HKQAA GOVERNING COUNCIL HOLDS INAUGURAL MEETING ............. 7
COUNCIL HOPES FOR EARLY PASSAGE OF BILL...................... 8
MOST ACCESSIBLE BUILDINGS FOR DISABLED DECLARED ............. 9
QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY RESULTS RELEASED................... 10
JUNE SALARY INDEXES FOR MANAGERIAi/PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES ... 13
INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION FOR SECOND QUARTER............ 18
HK GRAFT-FIGHTING APPROACH RECOMMENDED AT CONFERENCE......... 20
FESTIVAL TO PROMOTE ARTS IN KWAI TSING ...................... 22
WATER STORAGE FIGURE......................................... 22
ROYAL VISIT SOUVENIR STAMP SHEETS STILL AVAILABLE ........... 23
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS WATERCOURSE MAINTENANCE IN TA KWU
LING ...................................................... 23
NOMINATIONS FOR AWARDS CLOSE ON FRIDAY ...................... 24
CANTONESE OPERA DAY FOR THE ELDERLY.......................... 25
TEMPORARY NIGHT CLOSURE OF FEI TSUI ROAD .................... 25
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR KING'S ROAD RECONSTRUCTION.......... 26
WATER CUT IN YAU MA TEI ..................................... 26
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1989
GOVERNOR OPENS FIRST HOMES IN NEW TOWN t t ♦ ♦ *
HOMES FOR 22,000 PEOPLE IN TSUI LAM RENTAL ESTATE IN TSEUNG KWAN O WERE OFFICIALLY OPENED BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, TODAY (MONDAY).
THESE PEOPLE WERE THE FIRST OF ABOUT 80,000 WHO WOULD BE MOVING INTO PUBLIC RENTAL AND HOME OWNERSHIP FLATS IN THE NEW TOWN --PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS JUNK BAY — OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, THE GOVERNOR SAID.
BY THE TURN OF THE CENTURY THE NEW TOWN, WHEN FULLY DEVELOPED, WILL PROVIDE HOMES FOR 400,000 PEOPLE.
’’PHASES ONE AND TWO OF THE PROJECT, WHICH ARE ALREADY UNDERWAY, WILL PROVIDE HOMES, SCHOOLS, CLINICS, GARDENS AND SHOPS FOR 300,000. THE GOVERNMENT IS INVESTING SOME $13 BILLION IN THESE PROGRAMMES,” THE GOVERNOR SAID.
DESCRIBING THE OPENING OF THE TSUI LAM ESTATE AS AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE FOR TSEUNG KWAN O, THE GOVERNOR SAID HONG KONG COULD BE “RIGHTLY PROUD” OF THE NEW TOWN PROGRAMME.
“NEW TOWNS HAVE PROVIDED A MORI' MODERN AND BETTER ENVIRONMENT FOR NEARLY TWO MILLION PEOPLE. SOME TWO-THIRDS OF ALL THESE PEOPLE LIVE IN HOUSING BUILT BY THE HOUSING AUTHORITY.
"THE TSUI LAM ESTATE WHERE WE ARE TODAY IS ONLY THE LATEST OF A LONG SERIES OF MAJOR HOUSING AUTHORITY PROJECTS,” HE SAID.
THE GOVERNMENT TOO, PLAYS ITS PART, DIRECTLY INVESTING LARGE SUMS OF MONEY IN SITE FORMATION. TRANSPORT LINKS AND OTHER SUPPORTING SERVICES.
THE PARTNERSHIP HAS WORKED WELL. THROUGH THE JOINT EFFORTS Ob THE GOVERNMENT AND THE HOUSING AUTHORITY MORE AND BETTER SELF-CONTAINED COMMUNITIES COULD BE CREATED, WITH COMMUNICATIONS AND TRANSPORT FOR THOSE WHO CHOSE TO LIVE THERE.
THE GOVERNOR SAID HE WAS STRUCK BY THE MANY CHANGES WHICH MARKED THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE NEW TOWN — A TUNNEL LINK TO KWUN TONG ABOUT TO BE COMPLETED: HUNDREDS OF NEW HOUSING FLATS BEING BUILT, AND THE RAPIDLY CHANGING Sil API OF THE VALLEY SHORELINE.
HE SAID MUCH HARD WORK HAD GONE INTO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ESTATE. AND CONGRATULATED Till HOUSING AUTHORITY ON ITS IMPRESSIVE TRACK RECORD IN PROVIDING NEK HOUSING AND IN REDEVELOPING ITS OLDER HOUSING UNITS.
I AM SURE THAT THE NEW COMMUNITY HERE WILL QUICKLY REAL SENSE OF NEIGHBOURHOOD AND IDENTITY.” HE SAID.
DEVELOP A
/WELCOMING THE .......
MONDAY, NOVIMBER 1J, 1989
- 2
WELCOMING THE GOVENOR, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY, SIR DAVID AKERS-JONES, SAID THE HISTORIC OCCASION REPRESENTED "NOT MERELY THE OPENING OF THIS ESTATE BUT THE FORMAL OPENING OF A NEW TOWN" .
TSEUNG KWAN O IS NOW FIRMLY ESTABLISHED AS THE NEWEST NEW TOWN AND, WITH THE COMPLETION OF THE TUNNEL TO KWUN TONG AND THE EASTERN HARBOUR TUNNEL IT WOULD BE A FEW MINUTES BY BUS RIDE FROM KWUN TONG AND ABOUT 20 MINUTES FROM HONG KONG.
"INDEED IT IS MUCH MORE ACCESSIBLE THAN MOST OF OUR OTHER NEW TOWNS," HE SAID.
"THE AIR IS CLEAN. IT IS A NEW ENVIRONMENT AND IN THE COURSE OF THE NEXT FEW YEARS AS THE TREES GROW UP. TSEUNG KWAN O WILL BECOME A SHOW PLACE OF OUR HONG KONG ACHIEVEMENT IN HOUSING AND COMMUNITY BUILDING. INDEED IT IS ALREADY ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR TOWNS AMONG FAMILIES APPLYING FOR HOUSING." SIR DAVID SAID.
HE SAID THE INDEPENDENT HOUSING AUTHORITY WAS TACKLING ITS REPONS I BILIT IES WITH RENEWED VIGOUR.
THE REVIEWS AND RESEARCH NOW BEING DONE BY THE AUTHORITY INTO HOUSING THE ELDERLY, THE SANDWICH CLASS. THE ROLE OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR. THE EXTENSION OF HOME OWNERSHIP AND OTHER MATTERS WOULD ENABLE THE AUTHORITY TO MAKE ITS FULL CONTRIBUTION TO THE STABILITY AND HAPPINESS OF THE COMMUNITY. HE SAID.
AFTER OPENING THE ESTATE. THE GOVERNOR, ACCOMPANIED BY LADY WILSON AND Till' DIRECTOR OF HOUSING, MR PANG YUK-LING. VISIT TO THE TSUI LAM ESTATE BAPTIST KINDERGARTEN AND VIEWED AN EXHIBITION OF MODELS AND PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE TSEUNG KWAN O DEVELOPMENT.
SOME 500 GUESTS ATTENDED THE CEREMONY. INCLUDING MEMBERS OF HOUSING AUTHORITY COMMITTEES. DISTRICT BOARDS. MUTUAL AID COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL ASSOCIATIONS.
-------0 ---------
HK’S DEMAND FOR SCIENCE. ENGINEERING GRADUATES CERTAIN TO GROW ******
HONG KONG’S DEMAND FOR GRADUATES WITH A SOLID GROUNDING IN SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING IS CERTAIN TO GROW AS THE TERRITORY MOVES INTO THE ERA OF MORE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY. THE GOVERNOR. SIR DAVID WILSON. SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER OF THE SCIENCE FACULTY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG. SIR DAVID STRESSED THAT THE GOVERNMENT RECOGNISED THE GROWING ROLE PLAYED BY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN HONG KONG'S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
/"IF HONG .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1J, 1989
- 3 -
"IF HONG KONG IS TO MAINTAIN ITS POSITION AS AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL AND BUSINESS CENTRE. AND ONE OF THE GREAT TRADING TERRITORIES OF THE WORLD, WE MUST MAKE USE OF ALL THE NEW IDEAS AND PROCESSES NEEDED TO SUSTAIN OUR ECONOMIC SUCCESS.” HE SAID.
NOTING THAT INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY WAS ONE KEV AREA IN THIS REGARD, SIR DAVID SAID THE COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY HAD BEEN EXPLORING THE POSSIBILITY OF APPLYING ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE FOR TRADING PURPOSES AND THAT THE COMMITTEE HAD ALSO COMMISSIONED IMPORTANT CONSULTANCY STUDIES ON HONG KONG’S NEEDS IN THE SUPERCOMPUTING FIELD AND THE POTENTIAL FOR A BIOTECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY.
"THEIR APPROACH IS, AND MUST BE, TO FIND WAYS IN WHICH SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CAN BE APPLIED IN COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY.
"WE ARE NOT A SOCIETY THAT CAN AFFORD TO STUDY IN SPLENDID ISOLATION FROM THE CHALLENGES AND DISCIPLINES OF THE MARKET PLACE," SIR DAVID SAID.
"THE GOVERNMENT TOO WILL DO ITS BIT .
"WE BELIEVE, RIGHTLY. IN MINIMAL INTERFERENCE IN MARKET DECISIONS. BUT WE ALSO WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT THOSE WHO MAKE THE DECISIONS DO SO WITH FULL ACCESS TO THE MOST MODERN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY," HE SAID.
THE GOVERNOR POINTED OUT THAT THE GOVERNMENT THEREFORE HAD GIVEN BACKING TO THE PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL AND TO THE SETTING UP OF A TECHNOLOGY CENTRE TO STIMULATE THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW PRODUCTS AND SERVICES BY HONG KONG BUSINESS.
"IF WE ARE TO BE UP TO DATE BOTH ON RESEARCH AND APPLYING RESEARCH TO INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE WE MUST HAVE A STEADILY INCREASING SUPPLY OF WELL-EDUCATED YOUNG RECRUITS.
"THE SHIFT WITHIN BOTH THE MANUFACTURING AND SERVICE SECTORS OF THE ECONOMY TOWARDS MORE ’BRAIN-INTENSIVE' WORK AND HIGHER VALUE-ADDED OUTPUT MEANS THAT OUR POLICIES ON SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, INDUSTRIAL SUPPORT, AND EDUCATION AND MANPOWER TRAINING MUST REMAIN FLEXIBLE AND ADAPTABLE TO RAPID CHANGE." HE ADDED.
THE GOVERNOR EXPLAINED THAT THAT WAS THE BACKGROUND TO HIS ANNOUNCEMENT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL LAST MONTH THAT THE GOVERNMENT PLANNED TO MORE THAN DOUBLE THE NUMBER OF FIRST-YEAR, FIRST DEGREE PLACES BY 1995, FROM SEVEN PER CENT OF THE RELEVANT AGE GROUP TO 18 PER CENT.
"THIS IS A CONSCIOUS AND DELIBERATE INVESTMENT BY THE GOVERNMENT IN THE CONTINUED DEVELOPMENT OF A SKILLED WORKFORCE IN HONG KONG TO MEET FUTURE ECONOMIC DEMAND.
"I AM SURE THAT THE FACULTY OF SCIENCE WILL HAVE A MAJOR ROLE TO PLAY IN THIS," SIR DAVID SAID.
/SIR DAVID .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER ♦ 198?
4 -
SIR DAVID DESCRIBED THE HKU SCIENCE FACULTY AS AN EXAMPLE OF THAT WELL-KNOWN HONG KONG PHENOMENON : RAPID AND SUCCESSFUL GROWTH FROM SMALL BEGINNINGS.
’’THE SHEER SIZE OF THE FACULTY TODAY - NEARLY 1.000 UNDERGRADUATES - IS IMPRESSIVE.
’’BUT. MORE IMPORTANT. THE FACULTY HAS KEPT UP WITH THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN BOTH ITS UNDERGRADUATE AND RESEARCH PROGRAMMES.” SAID SIR DAVID, CITING THE EXAMPLE OF THE NEW TWO-YEAR MASTER OF SCIENCE PROGRAMME ON ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN HONG KONG.
’’MUCH OF THE CREDIT FOR THESE RECENT INITIATIVES MUST GO TO YOUR DEAN, PROFESSOR POON. AND HIS COLLEAGUES. AND TO THE LEADERSHIP PROVIDED BY THE VICE-CHANCELLOR. DR WANG,” SIR DAVID SAID.
’’THE FIRST 50 YEARS OF THE FACULTY HAVE SEEN REMARKABLE CHANGES AND GREAT ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE FIELD OF EDUCATION IN HONG KONG. THE NEXT 50 YEARS WILL SEE FURTHER CHANGES AND ALSO, I HOPE, EVEN GREATER ACHIEVEMENTS.
"THE NEEDS OF HONG KONG’S ECONOMY AND SOCIETY IN THE NEXT HALF CENTURY PRESENT AN ENORMOUS CHALLENGE TO THE FACULTY," THE GOVERNOR SAID.
------0 -------
MORE RESOURCES FOR TERTIARY EDUCATION * * ♦ t * t
THE GOVERNMENT WILL STRENGTHEN THE DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATION IN THE TERRITORY BY DEVOTING MORE RESOURCES ON THE YOUNGER GENERATION, THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR DAVID LAN, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
ADDRESSING THE CHINESE WOMEN’S CLUB HIOE TJO YOENG PRIMARY SCHOOL’S GRADUATION CEREMONY, MR LAN POINTED OUT THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD DECIDED TO SUBSTANT IALLY INCREASE THE NUMBER OF FIRST-YEAR, FIRST-DEGREE PLACES.
"IT HAS BEEN DECIDED THAT STARTING NEXT YEAR, FIRST-YEAR, FIRST-DEGREE PLACES WOULD BE INCREASED FROM ABOUT 7,000 TO ABOUT 15,000 IN 1995.
"THIS INCREASE WOULD GIVE A TOTAL OF 67,000 TERTIARY PLACES IN 1995, ENABLING ABOUT 25 PER CENT OF THE RELEVANT AGE GROUP TO RECEIVE TERTIARY OR POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION,” HE NOTED.
/TO AVOID .......
MONDAY, NOVIMBER 1J, 1989
- 5 -
TO AVOID A POSSIBLE FALLING OFF IN STANDARDS AS A RESULT OF MASS EDUCATION, MR LAN CONTINUED, THE GOVERNMENT WOULD PROVIDE SECONDARY 7 CLASSES IN ALL TYPES OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS AND INTRODUCE A PHASED PROGRAMME OF CONVERTING SENIOR PRIMARY CLASSES TO WHOLE-DAY OPERATION.
ANOTHER MEASURE WAS TO RAISE THE STANDARDS OF BOTH CHINESE AND ENGLISH LANGUAGES FOR TRAINING UP ADEQUATE MANPOWER TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE TERRITORY’S VARIOUS INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS AND TO ENSURE ITS CONTINUED PROSPERITY AND STATUS AS AN INTERNATIONAL TRADING CENTRE, HE ADDED.
-----o-----
TELA EXPRESSES REGRET OVER CHIEF CENSOR’S DEATH
*»»»»»
THE TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY (TELA) TODAY (MONDAY) EXPRESSED DEEP REGRET OVER THE DEATH OF THE DEPARTMENT’S CHIEF FILM CENSOR, MR PIERRE LEBRUN, WHO DIED OF A HEART ATTACK YESTERDAY AFTERNOON.
THE COMMISSIONER FOR TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING, MRS LILY YAM. SAID: "MR LEBRUN HAD WIDE EXPERIENCE IN FILM CENSORSHIP AND HE WAS GREATLY RESPECTED NOT ONLY WITHIN TELA BUT ALSO IN THE MOVIE INDUSTRY IN HONG KONG.
"HE MADE A PARTICULARLY VALUABLE CONTRIBUTION TO THE REVISED FILM CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM INTRODUCED A YEAR AGO.
"ALWAYS DEDICATED AND WILLING TO HELP. MR LEBRUN’S ADVICE WAS FREQUENTLY SOUGHT BY HIS COLLEAGUES AND HIGHLY VALUED. HE HAD A WARM AND FRIENDLY DISPOSITION AND WAS VERY WELL LIKED AND LOOKED UPON AS A FATHER FIGURE IN THE DEPARTMENT.
"WE HAVE LOST NOT ONLY A COLLEAGUE BUT ALSO A VERY GOOD FRIEND."
MR I,EBRUN JOINED THE GOVERNMENT AS CHIEF FILM CENSOR IN 1973. HE IS SURVIVED BY HIS WIFE. A SON AND A DAUGHTER WHO ARE NOW IN CANADA.
-------o----------
/6........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1989
6
TRADE DELEGATION TO ATTEND MINISTERIAL MEETING IN TOKYO t ♦ * * t
THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR JOHN CHAN, WILL LEAD A DELEGATION OF SENIOR TRADE OFFICIALS TO TOKYO THIS WEEK TO ATTEND AN INFORMAL MINISTERIAL MEETING.
THE MEETING, SCHEDULED TO TAKE PLACE FROM WEDNESDAY TO FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 15 TO 17), IS THE LATEST IN A SERIES OF INFORMAL GATHERINGS OF TRADE MINISTERS FROM CERTAIN COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES WHICH ARE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE GATT URUGUAY ROUND OF MULTILATERAL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS.
THE MEETING IS BEING HOSTED BY JAPAN AND WILL BE ATTENDED BY DELEGATIONS FROM 24 MEMBER STATES OF GATT, INCLUDING USA, THE EC COMMISSION AND SOME MEMBER STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, SWEDEN, MEXICO, KOREA, AND THAILAND.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRADE DEPARTMENT SAID THE MEETING WOULD OFFER AN OPPORTUNITY FOR MINISTERS TO EXCHANGE VIEWS INFORMALLY ON THE URUGUAY ROUND OF TRADE NEGOTIATIONS.
THE MINISTERS LAST MET FORMALLY IN MONTREAL IN DECEMBER LAST YEAR TO CONDUCT THE MID-TERM REVIEW OF THE URUGUAY ROUND.
"IT IS EXPECTED THAT THERE WILL BE A FRANK EXCHANGE OF POSITIONS BETWEEN KEY PLAYERS IN THE THREE BROAD GROUPS OF MAINTAINING AND STRENGTHENING THE GATT SYSTEM, MARKET ACCESS, AND NEW AREAS. THIS WILL FACILITATE PROGRESS IN THE NEGOTIATIONS IN GENEVA," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT HONG KONG WAS PARTICIPATING FOR THE FIRST TIME IN SUCH INFORMAL MEETINGS AT THE INVITATION OF THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT.
"WE ATTACH GREAT IMPORTANCE TO PARTICIPATING IN THESE TALKS WHICH WILL ENABLE US TO CONTRIBUTE FURTHER TO THE URUGUAY ROUND NEGOTIATIONS," HE SAID.
THE OTHER GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS IN THE DELEGATION ARE THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE, MR MICHAEL SZE; HONG KONG’S PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE TO THE GATT, MR KEITH BROADBRIDGE; AND THE CHIEF HONG KONG ECONOMIC AND TRADE REPRESENTATIVE IN TOKYO, MR LEE LAP-SUN.
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/7........
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 13, 1989
- 7 -
HKQAA GOVERNING COUNCIL HOLDS INAUGURAL MEETING * ♦ « » *
THE GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE HONG KONG QUALITY ASSURANCE AGENCY (HKQAA) HELD ITS INAUGURAL MEETING TODAY (MONDAY).
THE GOVERNING COUNCIL IS APPOINTED TO MANAGE THE HKQAA WHICH HAS BEEN SET UP AS A NON-PROFIT MAKING AGENCY FUNDED BY GOVERNMENT SUBVENTION.
SPEAKING AFTER THE MEETING, CHAIRMAN OF THE GOVERNING COUNCIL, DR JOHN LO, SAID THE PRIME OBJECTIVE OF THE HKQAA WAS TO UNDERTAKE ASSESSMENT OF THE QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS OF MANUFACTURING COMPANIES IN HONG KONG, WITH A VIEW TO MAKING APPROPRIATE RECOMMENDATIONS TO GOVERNMENT FOR THE AWARD OF ACCREDITATION.
"UNDER THE SCHEME. GOVERNMENT RECOGNITION WILL BE CONFERRED ON MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS WHICH ADOPT QUALITY PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS CONFORMING WITH INTERNATIONALLY ACCEPTED STANDARDS OF QUALITY ASSURANCE." DR LO SAID.
"THE STANDARDS BEING ADOPTED ARE BASED ON THE ISO 9000 SERIES OF QUALITY MANAGEMENT STANDARDS." HE ADDED.
IN ITS FORMATIVE YEARS. HE SAID, THE AGENCY WOULD RECEIVE CONSULTANCY ADVICE AND ASSISTANCE FROM THE UNITED KINGDOM’S BRITISH STANDARDS INSTITUTION (B8I) WHICH HAD MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE OPERATION OF THEIR QUALITY SYSTEMS ASSESSMENT AND REGISTRATION (QUASAR) SCHEME.
HKQAA'S CHIEF EXECUTIVE (DESIGNATE). MR LIONEL WOOD. WILL BE VISITING THE BSI IN DECEMBER THIS YEAR TO FAMILIARISE HIMSELF WITH THE OPERATION OF THE QUASAR SCHEME.
DR LO SAID THE AGENCY WOULD ALSO NEED TO RECRUIT AND TRAIN ASSESSORS TO UNDERTAKE THE DETAILED EXAMINATION OF COMPANIES SEEKING ACCREDITATION.
HE SAID THE ASSESSMENT OF THE FIRST GROUP OF FACTORIES WAS EXPECTED TO START IN THE LATTER PART OF 1990, WITH THE FIRST ACCREDITATIONS BEING AWARDED THEREAFTER.
DR LO SAID THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE QUALITY MANAGEMENT ACCREDITATION SCHEME FOR MANUFACTURING COMPANIES WAS ONE OF THE THREE INTERLINKED AREAS OF ACTIVITY IN THE QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME ENDORSED BY TIIF INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD IN DECEMBER LAST YEAR.
THE OTHER TWO AREAS WERE THE ENHANCING OF THE EXISTING QUALITY SUPPORT SERVICES PROVIDED RY GOVERNMENT AND THE LAUNCHING OF AN ONGOING QUALITY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN AIMED AT MANUFACTURERS.
THESE VARIOUS DEVELOPMENTS REPRESENTED MAJOR GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES IN THE PURSUIT OF QUALITY IN 01 R MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES AND THE ENHANCEMENT OF THE QUALITY OF HONG KONG PRODUCTS.
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/8........
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 13. 1989
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COUNCIL HOPES FOR EARLY PASSAGE OF BILL
THE SUPPLEMENTARY MEDICAL PROFESSIONS COUNCIL HOPES THAT THE SUPPLEMENTARY MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 WILL BE PASSED AT THE EARLIEST POSSIBLE DATE SO AS TO PAVE THE WAY FOR THE COMMENCEMENT OF REGISTRATION FOR THE VARIOUS PROFESSIONS CONCERNED.
THE NEWLY APPOINTED CHAIRMAN OF THE SUPPLEMENTARY MEDICAL PROFESSIONS COUNCIL. PROFESSOR TAM SHANG-WAI, SAID THIS AT A MEET-THE-MEDIA SESSION TODAY (MONDAY).
THE SUPPLEMENTARY MEDICAL PROFESSIONS (AMENDMENT) BILL WAS INTRODUED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN JANUARY.
HOWEVER. ITS PASSAGE WAS HELD OVER FROM THE LAST LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SESSION IN VIEW OF DEBATE OVER A NUMBER OF ISSUES RAISED IN THE CONTEXT OF THE BILL. INCLUDING THE QUESTION OF DOCTOR'S REFERRAL.
PROF TAM SAID THE SUPPLEMENTARY MEDICAL PROFESSIONS COUNCIL HAD GIVEN CAREFUL CONSIDERATION TO THE ISSUE OF DOCTOR'S REFERRAL AT ITS MEETING HELD LAST FRIDAY.
”IT IS THE VIEW OF THE COUNCIL THAT IN NORMAL CIRCUMSTANCES. A MEMBER OF THE SUPPLEMENTARY MEDICAL PROFESSIONS, EXCEPT OPTOMETRISTS, SHOULD ONLY TREAT PATIENTS REFERRED FROM A MEDICAL PRACTITIONER,” HE SAID.
’’HOWEVER. WE CONCUR WITH THE PROFESSIONAL BOARDS THAT THE REQUIREMENT OF DOCTOR’S REFERRAL SHOULD BE PROVIDED IN THE CODE OF PRACTICE FOR THE RESPECTIVE PROFESSIONS. AND SHOULD NOT BE MADE A MATTER FOR LEGISLATION.”
HE SAID THE COUNCIL HAD. AT THE MEETING. ENDORSED THE FINAL VERSION OF THE CODES OF PRACTICE FOR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS. PHYSIOTHERAPISTS AND MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS PREPARED BY THE VARIOUS BOARDS.
’’ALL OF THEM CONTAIN A REFERENCE TO THE REQUIREMENT OF DOCTOR’S REFERRAL.” PROF TAM SAID.
”WE THEREFORE DO NOT SEE A NEED TO HAVE IT STIPULATED IN THE LEGISLATION AT THIS STAGE WHICH COULD BE INTERPRETED AS A MISTRUST OF THE SELF-REGULATORY ROLE OF THE PROFESSIONAL BOARDS.
’’FOR EFFECTIVE HEALTH CARE AND IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF PATIENTS. THERE SHOULD BE A PARTNERSHIP OF EXPERTS IN THE HEALTH CARE FIELD.”
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1989
9
MOST ACCESSIBLE BUILDINGS FOR DISABLED DECLARED ♦ » t » *
THREE BUILDINGS HAVE BEEN DECLARED TO BE THE MOST ACCESSIBLE FOR DISABLED PEOPLE IN HONG KONG.
THE BUILDINGS ARE IN SHAM SHUI PO, CENTRAL AND TAIKOO SHING.
RESULTS OF THE DESIGN AWARD OF THE MOST ACCESSIBLE BUILDING FOR THE DISABLED WERE ANNOUNCED AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR PETER CHAN.
"THE SCHEME WAS WELL RECEIVED BY THE PUBLIC,” MR CHAN SAID.
A TOTAL OF 27 NOMINATIONS HAD BEEN RECEIVED FOR THE FOUR CATEGORIES IN THE AWARD SCHEME WHICH WAS ORGANISED IN JUNE BY THE ACCESS AND TRANSPORT SUB-COMMITTEE OF THE REHABILITATION DEVELOPMENT CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE. IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS.
"THE AWARD SCHEME WAS ORGANISED TO PROMOTE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE SPECIAL ACCESS NEEDS OF DISABLED PERSONS FOR INTEGRATION AND ALSO TO ENCOURAGE PROPERTY OWNERS. DEVELOPERS AND ARCHITECTS TO INCLUDE BARRIER-FREF FEATURES IN THEIR DESIGNS.” MR CHAN EXPLAINED.
THE FOUR CATEGORIES WERE: REHABILITATION INSTITUTION. PUBLIC NON-RES I DENT 1 AL BUILDI NG. PRIVATE NON-RESI DENTI AL BUILDI NG, AND PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL BUILDING.
THE AWARD IN THE REHABILITATION INSTITUTION CATEGORY GOES TO THE HONG KONG SOCIETY FOR THE BLIND’S ROYAl HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB CENTRE FOR THE BLIND AT 248 NAM CHEONG STREET. SHAM SHUI PO. THE BUILDING WAS DESIGNED BY THE ARCHITECTS OF DESIGN CONSULTANTS.
THE URBAN COUNCIL'S SHEUNG WAN COMPLEX AT 345 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL. DESIGNED BY THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT. HAS WON THE AWARD IN THE PUBLIC NON-RESI DENT I AL BUILDING CATEGORY.
THE THIRD WINNING BUILDING PHASE II AT 18 TAIKOO SHING ROAD, PRIVATE NON-RESIDENTIAL CATEGORY. TUNG AND PARTNERS.
IS THE SWIRE PROPERTY’S CITIPLAZA
WHICH HAS WON THE AWARD IN THE THIS BUILDING WAS DESIGNED BY WONG
HOWEVER. NO AWARD WAS MADE IN THE PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL AS ONLY ONE BUILDING - HENG FA CHUEN - WAS NOMINATED. ADJUDICATORS CONSIDERED THE BUILDING MERITED A COMMENDATION EFFORTS MADE IN PROVIDING GOOD ACCESS FOR THE DISABLED.
CATEGORY
AND THE
FOR THE
PRIZES AWARDED IN RESPECT OF THE THREE WINNING BUILDINGS INCLUDE A TROPHY. PLUS A CERTIFICATE OF MERIT FOR THE ARCHITECT AND A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FOR THE PROPERTY OWNER.
IN ADDITION. A SUITABLY ENGRAVED PLAQUE WILL BE AFFIXED TO EACH BUILDING.
/MR CHAN.......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1J, 1989
10 -
MR CHAN SAID ALL SUBMISSIONS ENTERED WERE JUDGED ON CONVENIENCE. INTEGRATION. INNOVATION. USEFULNESS AND TRANSFERABILITY.
THE JUDGING PANEL COMPRISED DISABLED PERSONS, ARCHITECTS AND PROMINENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY.
THE ASSESSMENTS WERE HELD IN TWO STAGES, INCLUDING ONE ON-SITE.
MR CHAN SAID THAT, OVERALL, PUBLIC RESPONSE TO THE AWARD SCHEME HAD BEEN GOOD, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THAT THE MANDATORY ARCHITECTURAL PROVISIONS FOR DISABLED PERSONS IN NEW BUILDINGS AND IN THE CONVERSION OF EXISTING BUILDINGS HAD ONLY TAKEN EFFECT FROM AUGUST 1985.
THE PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY AND AN EXHIBITION RELATING TO THE BEST ENTRIES WILL BE HELD EARLY NEXT MONTH AT THE NEW WORLD CENTRE, TSIM SHA TSUI.
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QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY RESULTS RELEASED
*****
FIRMS IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR EXPERIENCED AN IMPROVEMENT IN THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1989 COMPARED WITH THE SECOND QUARTER. ACCORDING TO SURVEY RESULTS RELEASED TODAY (MONDAY) B'. THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
IN GENERAL. FIRMS IN THIS SECTOR EXPECT A RATHER STABLE BUSINESS OUTLOOK IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1989 ALTHOUGH THE EXPECTATIONS OF FIRMS IN INDIVIDUAL INDUSTRIES VARY.
FOR THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR. THE THIRD AND FOURTH QUARTERS ARE USUALLY MORE ACTIVE SEASONALLY.
WITHIN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR. FIRMS IN THE TEXTILES. PRINTING AND WATCHES AND CLOCKS INDUSTRIES EXPERIENCED A STABLE BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE THIRD QUARTER WHILE FIRMS IN THE OTHER MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES EXPERIENCED A MODERATE IMPROVEMENT IN BUSINESS.
REGARDING THE BUSINESS PROSPECTS FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER, FIRMS IN THE WEARING APPAREL. PRINTING, ELECTRONICS AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES EXPECT AN IMPROVEMENT IN BUSINESS IN THE FOURTH QUARTER WHILE FIRMS IN THE FOOD. BEVERAGE AND TOBACCO INDUSTRY ANTICIPATE A STABLE BUSINESS SITUATION.
FIRMS IN THE REMAINING INDUSTRIES (INCLUDING THE TEXTILES. PLASTICS, ELECTRICAL MACHINERY AND APPLIANCES AND WATCHES AND CLOCKS INDUSTRIES). HOWEVER. EXPECT A DETERIORATION IN BUSINESS IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.
/FIRMS IN
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1J, 1989
11
FIRMS IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR EXPERIENCED A STABLE BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE THIRD QUARTER IN CONTRAST TO THE EXPECTATION FOR A DECLINE IN BUSINESS RECORDED IN THE PREVIOUS ROUND OF SURVEY.
AS REGARDS BUSINESS OUTLOOK FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER. CONSTRUCTION FIRMS IN GENERAL LOOK FORWARD TO SOME IMPROVEMENT IN BUSINESS.
AS FOR THE DISTRIBUTIVE AND CATERING TRADES SECTOR. FIRMS IN THE WHOLESALE. RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES AND RESTAURANTS SECTOR EXPERIENCED AN IMPROVEMENT IN BUSINESS IN THE THIRD QUARTER WHEREAS HOTELS REPORTED A DETERIORATION.
IN REGARD TO THE BUSINESS EXPECTATION FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER, FIRMS IN THIS SECTOR ANTICIPATI A FAVOURABLE BUSINESS OUTLOOK.
IN THE OTHER SERVICES SECTOR. WHILE BANKS AND FIRMS IN THE TRANSPORT. STORAGE AND COMMUNICATION SERVICES RECORDED AN IMPROVEMENT IN BUSINESS IN THE THIRD QUARTER. THE OTHER FIRMS (WHICH INCLUDE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED SERVICES AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS SERVICES! EXPERIENCED A STABLE BUSINESS SITUATION.
AS REGARDS BUSINESS EXPECTATIONS FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER. WHILE BANKS AND FIRMS IN THE MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS SERVICES ANTICIPATE AN IMPROVEMENT IN BUSINESS FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER. THE OTHER FIRMS IN THIS SECTOR EXPECT A STABLE BUSINESS SITUATION.
ABOUT 1.000 FIRMS FROM VARIOUS INDUSTRIES FORMING A CROSS-SECTTON OF THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY. THE SURVEY. THEY WERE ASKED ABOUT THEIR BUSINESS
AND BUSINESSES. PARTICIPATED IN EXPERIENCES AND
EXPECTATIONS. AS WELL AS THE BUSINESS PROBLEMS THEY FACED.
SHORTAGE OF SKILLED LABOUR AND SHORTAGE OF LABOUR GENERALLY REMAINED A WIDESPREAD PROBLEM FOR FIRMS IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR IN THE THIRD QUARTER AND THIS SITUATION IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.
IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR. FIRMS WERE AFFECTED BY SHORTAGE OF SKILLED AND GENERAL LABOUR. PRICE COMPETITION FROM LOCAL FIRMS IN HONG KONG AND HIGH WAGE RATES IN THE THIRD QUARTER. THESE PROBLEMS ARE EXPECTED TO PERSIST IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.
A SIGNIFICANT PROPORTION OF FIRMS IN THE DISTRIBUTIVE AND CATERING TRADES SECTOR AND OTHER SERVICES SECTOR WERE STILL AFFECTED BY SHORTAGE OF STAFF AND HIGH STAFF TURNOVER IN THE THIRD QUARTER AND THESE PROBLEMS ARE EXPECTED TO CONTINUE IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.
IN ADDITION. FIRMS IN THE HOTELS INDUSTRY CONTINUED TO BE AFFECTED BY THE PROBLEMS OF PRICE COMPETITION. INSUFFICIENT BUSINESS AND HIGH STAFF COSTS IN THE THIRD QUARTER.
HOWEVER. THE PROBLEM OF INSUFFICIENT BUSINESS IS EXPECTED TO EASE OFF CONSIDERABLY IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.
/ON THE
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1989
12 -
ON THE OTHER HAND. FIRMS IN THE WHOLESALE. RETAIL. IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES WERE ALSO AFFECTED SIGNIFICANTLY BY THE PROBLEM OF PRICE COMPETITION IN THE THIRD QUARTER AND A SIMILAR SITUATION IS EXPECTED TO PREVAIL IN THE FOURTH QUARTER.
ACCORDING TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT. THE SURVEY RESULTS, OBTAINED WITH A MINIMUM TIME LAG, ARE INTENDED TO PROVIDE A SOURCE OF REFERENCE FOR MAKING A QUICK ASSESSMENT OF THE CURRENT ECONOMIC SITUATION OF HONG KONG.
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 THIRD QUARTER OF 1989 COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING QUARTER.
THEY WERE ALSO ASKED TO INDICATE WHETHER THE SITUATION IS EXPECTED TO "IMPROVE". "REMAIN THE SAME" OR "DETERIORATE" IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1989.
THE OPINIONS OF RESPONDENTS WERE TABULATED AND ANALYSED.
MOREOVER. 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 pF FIRMS BY SIZE GROUPS.
THE DEPARTMENT CAUTIONED THAT. IN A SURVEY OF THIS NATURE. THE RESULTS SHOULD BE INTERPRETED WITH CAUTION AS IT IS DIFFICULT TO ESTABLISH PRECISELY THE EXTENT TO WHICH RESPONDENTS' RECOLLECTION OF THE PAST AND PERCEPTION OF THE FUTURE ACCORDS WITH THE UNDERLYING TRENDS.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY OBTAIN COPIES OF THE SURVEY REPORT FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE. GPO BUILDING. CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL. AND FROM THE PUBLICATION SALES COUNTER OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT. 19TH FLOOR. WANCHAI TOWER I, 12 HARBOUR ROAD. WAN CHAI, AT $5 PER COPY.
FURTHER DETAILS OF THE QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE NATIONAL INCOME BRANCH OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 5-8234779.
0
/13........
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 13. 1989
- 13 -
JUNE SALARY INDEXES EOR MANAGER I AL/PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES * * * * *
THE OVERALL NOMINAL SALARY INDEX (A). MEASURING CHANGES IN AVERAGE SALARY LEVELS FOR MANAGERIAL AND PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES. AT 190.3 IN JUNE 1989. WAS 15.0 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN JUNE 1988. ACCORDING TO THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY OF SALARIES AND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS - MANAGERIAL AND PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES (EXCLUDING TOP MANAGEMENT) RELEASED TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE OVERALL NOMINAL SALARY INDEX (B). WHICH MEASURES CHANGES IN AVERAGE SALARY LEVELS ONLY FOR THOSE MANAGERIAL AND PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES WHO REMAINED TN THE SAME JOB AND IN THE SAME COMPANY IN BOTH 1988 AND 1989. WAS 231.2 IN JUNE 1989. REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 21.0 PER CENT AS COMPARED WITH JUNE 1988.
THESE SALARY INDEXES USED JUNE 1983 AS THE BASE PERIOD.
BETWEEN JUNE 1988 AND JUNE 1989. THE NOMINAL SALARY INDEX (A)
FOR LARGE COMPANIES INCREASED Bl 16.6 PER CENT AND THAT FOR MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES BY 14.6 PER CENT. AS REGARDS THE NOMINAL SALARY INDEX (B). THE CORRESPONDING INCREASES WERE 22.2 PER CENT AND 20.7 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. THESE DIFFERENCES TN SALARY INCREASES AS REFLECTED IN THE TWO INDEXES WERE LARGELY DUE TO THE EFFECT OF LABOUR TURNOVER OVER THE PERIOD CONCERNED.
THE NOMINAL SALARY INDEX (A) AND NOMINAL SALARY INDEX IB) FOR JUNF 1989 ANALYSED BY THE MAJOR ECONOMIC SECTORS OF COMPANY ARE SHOWN IN TABLES 1 AND 2 AND CHART 1.
BY DEFLATING THE NOMINAL SALARY INDEXES BY THE HANG SENG CONSUMER PRICE INDEX. THE REAL SALARY INDEXES ARE OBTAINED TO MEASURE CHANGES IN THE PURCHASING POWER OF THE AMOUNT OF MONEY EARNED. THE OVERALL REAL SALARY INDEX (A) STOOD AT 124.3 IN JUNE 1989. REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 3.7 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH JUNE 1988. THE OVERALL REAL SALARY INDEX (B). ON THE OTHER HAND. STOOD AT 150.9 IN JUNE 1989. REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 9.0 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH JUNE 1988.
BETWEEN JUNE 1988 AND JUNE 1989. THE REAL SALARY INDEX (A) FOR LARGE COMPANIES INCREASED BY 5.1 PER CENT AND THAT FOR MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES BY 3.3 PER CENT WHILE THE REAL SALARY INDEX (B) FOR LARGE AND MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES INCREASED BY 10.2 PER CENT AND 8.7 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
BOTH SALARY INDEXES (A) AND (B) ARE DESIGNED FOR THE PURPOSE OF MEASURING CHANGES IN SALARY LEVELS. HOWEVER. BY CONFINING TO THOSE EMPLOYEES WHO REMAINED IN THE SAME JOB AND IN THE SAME COMPANY TN 1988 AND 1989. THE SALARY INDEX (B) ONLY ACCOUNTS FOR SALARY CHANGES DUE TO GENERAL INCREMENT. MERITORIOUS INCREASE AND GAIN IN SENIORITY. ON THE OTHER HAND. THE SALARY INDEX (A) TAKES INTO ACCOUNT EFFECTS OF LABOUR MOBILITY AS WELL.
/THE RATE ......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1J, 1989
14
THE RATE OF INCREASE IN THE SALARY INDEX (B) IS USUALLY HIGHER THAN THAT IN THE SALARY INDEX (A) BECAUSE THE SALARY INDEX (A) INCLUDES THE SALARIES OF NEWLY RECRUITED AND NEWLY PROMOTED EMPLOYEES. WHO TEND TO BE PAID COMPARATIVELY LOWER SALARIES THAN THOSE ALREADY IN THE SAME RANK.
AMONG THE MANAGERIAL AND PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES COVERED IN THE SURVEY. IT WAS FOUND THAT 62 PER CENT OF THEM WERE ENTITLED TO PROFIT-SHARING BONUS. MOREOVER. 38 PER CENT WERE ENTITLED TO HOUSING BENEFITS OF SOME KIND AND 78 PEP CENT TO PROV1DENT/RETIREMENT FUND OR PENSION. IT WAS ALSO FOUND THAT 79 PER CENT OF THEM WERE ENTITLED TO GUARANTEED YEAR-END BONUS.
THE DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN CONDUCTING THE ANNUAL SURVEY OF SALARIES AND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS - MANAGERIAL AND PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES (EXCLUDING TOP MANAGEMENT) SINCE 1984 TO MEASURE CHANGES IN SALARY RATES FOR THE MANAGERIAJ. AND PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES.
EMPLOYEES OCCUPYING TOP POSITIONS IN MANAGEMENT ARE NOT INCLUDED BECAUSE OF DIFFICULTY IN OBTAINING DATA FOR THEM. LOWER LEVEL EMPLOYEES ARE ALREADY COVERED IN THE QUARTERLY SURVEY OF WAGES, SALARIES AND EMPLOYEES BENEFITS AND THEREFORE ARE ALSO EXCLUDED.
IN THE SURVEY. ONLY EMPLOYEES WORKING IN COMMON OCCUPATIONS OF MANAGERIAL AND PROFESSIONAL LEVELS ARE COVERED. BOTH LOCAL AND EXPATRIATE STAFF ARE ENUMERATED. A SAMPLE OF 200 LARGE AND MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES WAS SELECTED FOR THE SURVEY. ALL THE LARGE COMPANIES IN THE SELECTED ECONOMIC SECTORS WERE SELECTED IN FULL WHEREAS MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES WERE SAMPLED RANDOMLY FROM EACH OF THE FIVE ECONOMIC SECTORS.
IN THE SURVEY. THE SALARY RATE IS DEFINED TO INCLUDE. IN ADDITION TO BASIC SALARIES. ALSO COST-OF-LIVING ALLOWANCE. GUARANTEED YEAR-END BONUS. COMMISSION AND TIPS AND OTHER GUARANTEED AND REGULAR BONUSES AND ALLOWANCES.
OTHER ITEMS WHICH MAY CONTRIBUTE SIGNIFICANTLY TO THE TOTAL PAY PACKAGE OF EMPLOYEES AT THIS LEVEL SUCH AS PROFIT-SHARING BONUS AND HOUSING ALLOWANCE ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE DEFINITION OF THE SALARY RATE.
HOWEVER. STATISTICS ON FRINGE BENEFITS ARE SEPARATELY COMPILED. THEY ARE EXPRESSED IN TERMS OF PERCENTAGES OF EMPLOYEES INCLUDED IN THE SURVEY ENTITLED TO THEM.
DETAILS OF THE SALARY MOVEMENT. AVERAGE SALARY RATE FOR MAJOR OCCUPATIONS AND STATISTICS ON EMPLOYEE ENTITLEMENT TO VARIOUS FRINGE BENEFITS. TOGETHER WITH A DESCRIPTION OF THE METHODOLOGY. ARE PUBLISHED IN A "REPORT OF SALARY AND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS - MANAGERIAL AND PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES (EXCLUDING TOP MANAGEMENT)".
/COPIES OF .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1?, 1989
COPIES OF THIS REPORT ARI' AVAILABLE AT S25 PER COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE. GPO BUILDING. GROUND FLOOR. CONNAUGHT PLACE. CENTRAL.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SALARY INDEXES CAN BE DIRECTED TO THE WAGES AND LABOUR COSTS STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 5-8234746 OR 5-8234747.
TABLE 1: NOMINAL SALARY INDEX (A) ANALYSED BY MAJOR ECONOMIC SECTOR FOR JUNE 1989
( JUNE 198.3 = 100)
SELECTED MAJOR ECONOMIC SECTOR NOMINAL SALARY INDEX (A) % JUNE CHANGE 89/JL’NE 88
MANUFACTURING/ELECTRICITY. GAS & STEAM 184.2 ♦ 12.2
BUILDING A CONSTRUCTION AND RELATED TRADES 182.0 ♦ 14.0
WHOLESALE/RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES 198.2 ♦ 13.8
TRANSPORT. STORAGE AND COMMUNICATION 168.7 ♦ 16.0
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND INSURANCE 209.9 ♦ 19.1
ALL SECTORS ABOVE 190.3 ♦ 15.0
» ALL INDEXES ARE ROUNDED TO ONE DECIMAL PLACE.
PERCENTAGE CHANGES FOR JUNE 1989 OVER JUNE 1988 ARE
CALCULATED FROM INDEXES ROUNDED TO ONE DECIMAL PLACE.
/TABLE 2 .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1J, 1989
16 -
TABLE 2: NOMINAL SALARY INDEX (B) ANALYSED BY MAJOR ECONOMIC SECTOR FOR JUNE 1989
(JUNE 1983 = 100)
SELECTED MAJOR ECONOMIC SECTOR NOMINAL SALARY INDEX (B) % CHANGE JUNE 89/JUNE 88
MANL’FACTURING/ELECTRICITY, GAS & STEAM 219.3 + 18.3
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION AND RELATED TRADES 233.5 + 22.4
WHOLESALE/RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES 237.4 + 22.1
TRANSPORT. STORAGE AND COMMUNICATION 208.7 + 20.1
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND INSURANCE 24 4.1 + 20.5
ALL SECTORS ABOVE 231.2 + 21.0
» ALL INDEXES ARE ROUNDED TO ONE DECIMAL PLACE.
PERCENTAGE CHANGES FOR JUNE 1989 OVER JUNE 1988 ARK
CALCULATED FROM INDEXES ROUNDED TO ONE DECIMAL PLACE.
/CHANGE OF .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1J, 1989
17
Change of Nominal Salary Indexes (A) & (B)
by economic sector,June 1989/June 1988
Nominal Index (B)
Nominal Index (A)
C&SD. Nov 1989
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/18...............................................
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1989
18 -
INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION FOR SECOND QUARTER
THE INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION FOR THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989, AT 123, WAS 2 POINTS OR 1.7 PER CENT ABOVE THAT FOR THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1988, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THIS COMPARES WITH THE YEAR-ON-YEAR GROWTH RATE OF 3.8 PER CENT IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1989. THE AVERAGE GROWTH RATE FOR 1988 OVER 1987 WAS 6.0 PER CENT.
COMPARED WITH THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1989, THE INDEX SHOWED AN INCREASE OF 1-1 POINTS OR 12.8 PER CENT. THIS INCREASE WAS A SEASONAL PHENOMENON DUE MAINLY TO THE LARGER NUMBER OF WORKING DAYS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OVER THE FIRST QUARTER WHEN MOST OF THE MANUFACTURING WORKERS HAD THEIR LUNAR NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS.
INDUSTRIES SHOWING THE LARGEST PERCENTAGE INCREASES IN PRODUCTION IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 OVER THE SAME QUARTER OF 1988 WERE: MACHINERY, EXCEPT ELECTRICAL (+28.0 PER CENT): CHEMICALS AND CHEMICAL PRODUCTS (+13.6 PER CENT); NEWSPAPER PRINTING, JOB PRINTING AND OTHER PRINTING (+10.9 PER CENT); TEXTILES (INCLUDING KNITTING) (+9.3 PER CENT): AND PAPER AND PAPER PRODUCTS (+6.5 PER CENT).
ON THE OTHER HAND, SEVERAL INDUSTRIES REPORTED DECLINES IN PRODUCTION COMPARED WITH THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1988. AMONG THEM WERE: PLASTIC PRODUCTS (-12.6 PER CENT): WOOD AND CORK PRODUCTS, AND FURNITURE AND FIXTURES (EXCEPT PRIMARILY OF METAL) (-9.6 PER CENT); FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS. EXCEPT MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT (-9.4 PER CENT): RUBBER PRODUCTS (-)•:. 5 PER CENT); AND BEVERAGE (-7.4 PER CENT).
COMPARING THE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1989 WITH THAT IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER BUT BEARING TN MIND THAT THIS COMPARISON IS AFFECTED BY SEASONAL FACTORS, ALMOST ALL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES SURVEYED REPORTED INCREASES IN PRODUCTION.
THE MORE SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE FOLLOWING INDUSTRIES: PAPER AND PAPER PRODUCTS (+34.2 PER CENT); TEXTILES (INCLUDING KNITTING) (+31.5 PER CENT); BEVERAGE (+21.5 PER CENT); AND CHEMICALS AND CHEMICAL PRODUCTS 1+19.0 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 CHANGES OVER TIME OF LOCAL MANUFACTURING OUTPUT IN REA), TERMS. IN OTHER WORDS. THE VOLUME OF PRODUCTION IS MEASURED AFTER DISCOUNTING THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES.
A TABLE SHOWING CHANGES IN THE INDEXES OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION IN GREATER DETAIL IS INCLUDED.
/MORE DETAILED
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1J, 1989
- 19 -
MORE DETAILED INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND IN THE "REPORT ON THE QUARTERLY INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION. SECOND QUARTER 1989”. WHICH IS ON SALE AT S3 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GPO BUILDING. CONNAUGHT PLACE. CENTRAL OR AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATION SALES COUNTER, 19TH FLOOR. WANCHAI TOWER I. 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI. REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION MAY ALSO BE ARRANGED.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 5-8234832.
INDEXES OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION BY INDUSTRY GROUP
<1986=100)
INDUSTRY GROUP INDEXES FOR 2ND QTR. 1989 PER CENT CHANGE OVER
2ND QTR. 1988 1ST QTR. 1989
FOOD 111 0.0 + 0.9
BEVERAGE 113 -7.4 + 21.5
TOBACCO 154 *2.0 + 3.4
WEARING APPAREL, EXCEPT KNITWEAR AND FOOTWEAR 108 + 1.9 + 6.9
TEXTILES (INCLUDING KNITTING) 117 *9.3 + 31.5
PAPER AND PAPER PRODUCTS 196 + 6.5 + 34.2
NEWSPAPER PRINTING. JOB PRINTING AND OTHER PRINTING 152 ♦ 10.9 + 12.6
CHEMICALS AND CHEMICAL PRODUCTS 125 + 13.6 + 19.0
RUBBER PRODUCTS 97 -8.5 -11.8
PLASTIC PRODUCTS 90 -12.6 + 16.9
NON-METALLIC MINERAL PRODUCTS 112 -0.9 + 4.7
BASIC METALS 143 0.0 + 15.3
FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS, EXCEPT MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT 125 -9.4 + 6.8
MACHINERY, EXCEPT ELECTRICAL 192 + 28.0 + 14.3
/CONSUMER ELECTRICAL
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1989
- 20 -
CONSUMER ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS 133 *0.8 + 2.3
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PARTS, ACCESSORIES AND MACHINERY 160 *1.3 *8.1
PROFESSIONAL AND SCIENTIFIC EQUIPMENT. PHOTOGRAPHIC AND OPTICAL GOODS. WATCHES AND CLOCKS 128 -1.5 *17.4
LEATHER PRODUCTS AND FOOTWEAR (EXCEPT RUBBER. PLASTIC AND WOODEN FOOTWEAR I 125 -3.8 *11.6
WOOD AND CORK PRODUCTS. AND FURNITURE AND FIXTURES (EXCEPT PRIMARILY OF METAL I 85 -9.6 *1 .2
TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT 1 13 -5.0 + 6.6
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES. NOT ELSEWHERE CLASSIFIED 123 -3.9 + 7.9
ALL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES 123 *1.7 *12.8
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HK GRAFT-FIGHTING APPROACH RECOMMENDED AT CONFERENCE t ♦ * i r
HONG KONG’S THREE-PRONGED ATTACK AGAINST GRAFT WAS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED TO DELEGATES ATTENDING THE FOURTH INTERNATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPT ION CONFERENCE IN SYDNEY TODAY (MONDAY).
THE COMMISSIONER OF THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION, MR DAVID JEAFFRESON. ADVOCATED THIS APPROACH AS ONE OF THE BEST STRATEGIES IN TACKLING THE PROBLEM WHEN HE DELIVERED A KEYNOTE ADDRESS ON THE IMPORTANCE ON THE THREE-PRONGED ATTACK ON CORRUPTION AND ITS EFFECTIVENESS.
HE EMPHASISED THAT IF THE PUBLIC AND ALL GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS WERE TO HAVE CONFIDENCE IN THE ORGANISATION THAT CARRIED THE GRAFT-FIGHTING RESPONSIBILITY. IT MUST BE 'INDEPENDENT OF THE REST OF THE CIVIL SERVICE AND THE- POL ITI CAL SIDE OF THE GOVERNMENT. AND OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR.
/’’AND IF..........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1}, 1989
- 21
"AND IF IT IS TO HAVE ANY HOPE OF SUCCESSFULLY INVESTIGATING ALLEGATIONS OF CORRUPTION. IT MUST HAVE ADEQUATE POWERS IN LAW TO INVESTIGATE WHAT ARE INVARIABLY VERY DIFFICULT ALLEGATIONS."
MR JEAFFRESON NOTED THAT BOTH THESE PROVISOS CARRIED WITH THEM CONSIDERABLE DIFFICULTIES.
THE ICAC IN HONG KONG WAS CONTINUING TO BE UNDER FAIRLY HEAVY ATTACK FROM SOME QUARTERS IN RESPECT OF THE POWERS IT HAD IN LAW TO HELP WITH ITS INVESTIGATIONS. HE SAID.
"WE THINK THESE POWERS ARE THE MINIMUM WE NEED TO HAVE SOME CHANCE OF SUCCESS WITH INVESTIGATING ALLEGATIONS OF CORRUPTION. OTHERS THINK THEY ARE EXCESSIVE IN TERMS OF HUMAN RIGHTS."
ON WHETHER HONG KONG WOULD BE ABLE TO CONTINUE ITS OVERALL ANTI-CORRUPTION STRATEGY IN THE 1990’S. THE COMMISSIONER SAID THAT ACCORDING TO PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS HE HAD NO DOUBT THAT THE PUBLIC GENERALLY DID NOT WANT TO SEE ANY WEAKENING OF THE ICAC’S CAPABILITY TO TACKLE CORRUPTION.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THERE WAS PROVISION IN THE BASIC LAW, WHICH CHINA WAS DRAWING UP FOR THE HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION. FOR THERE TO BE AN INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION.
EARLIER IN HIS ADDRESS. MR JEAFFRESON SPOKE BRIEFLY ON THE HISTORY AND FORMATION OF THE ICAC.
HE ALSO EXPLAINED TO THE DELEGATES HONG KONG’S THREE-PRONGED ATTACK -- INVESTIGATIONS OF ALLEGATIONS OF CORRUPTION. EDUCATING THE PUBLIC AGAINST CORRUPTION AND TO REPORT ANY SUSPICIONS OF IT THAT COME THEIR WAY. AND CORRUPTION PREVENTION.
OVER THE YEARS. HE SAID. FINDINGS OF INDICATED THAT THE PUBLIC CONSIDERED THAT STEADILY DECREASING PROBLEM IN HONG KONG.
PUBLIC OPINION SURVEYS CORRUPTION HAD BEEN A
"IN PARTICULAR THE NUMBER OF RESPONDENTS WHO CONSIDER THAT THERE IS CORRUPTION IN MOST GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS HAS DECLINED DRAMATICALLY."
BUT THEY PERCEIVED THE BUSINESS SECTOR AS HAVING MORE CORRUPTION THAN IT USED TO. HE ADDED.
MR JEAFFRESON IS ATTENDING THE CONFERENCE WITH THREE SENIOR ICAC OFFICERS: THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, MR JIM BUCKLE; DIRECTOR OF CORRUPTION PREVENTION. MR TONY SCOTT; AND DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS. MR LEUNG CHTN-MAN.
THEY WILL TAKE PART IN SEPARATE PANEL DISCUSSIONS ON VARIOUS TOPICS WITH GRAFT-FIGHTERS FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES INCLUDING THE UNITED STATES. THE UNITED KINGDOM. THE NETHERLANDS, MEXICO, SINGAPORE, PUERTO RICO. PAPUA NEW GUINEA. AND ALSO FROM MACAU AND THE UNITED NATIONS.
/ABOUT 230 .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1J, 1989
- 22
ABOUT 230 DELEGATES REPRESENTING 80 ORGANISATIONS FROM 30 COUNTRIES ARE ATTENDING THE CONFERENCE.
THE THEME OF THE SIX-DAY CONFERENCE WHICH BEGAN YESTERDAY IS PLANNING STRATEGIES TO COMBAT AND PREVENT CORRUPTION IN THE 1990’S.
IT IS BEING HOSTED BY THE AUSTRALIAN DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND ATTORNEY GENERAL. MR LIONEL BOWEN.
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FESTIVAL TO PROMOTE ARTS IN KWAI TSING
*»*»**
RESIDENTS OF KWAI TSING DISTRICT ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE VARIOUS EVENTS IN THE THIRD KWAI TSING ARTS FESTIVAL WHICH WILL BE HELD FROM DECEMBER 17 TO JANUARY 4.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MR LEUNG KWONG-CHEONG, SAID AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (MONDAY) AROUND 30,000 PEOPLE ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND THE 32 EVENTS IN THE FESTIVAL PROGRAMME.
THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE FESTIVAL WILL BE HELD AT THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL ON DECEMBER 17.
THE FIRST PROGRAMME WILL BE THE SCREENING OF A LOCALLY PRODUCED FILM DEPICTING THE LIVES AND ASPIRATIONS OF SIX YOUNG PEOPLE LIVING IN LARGE CITIES IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION.
OTHER. EVENTS INCLUDE CHINESE OPERA, FOLK DANCE, MODERN DANCE. DRAMA, CHINESE ORCHESTRAL PERFORMANCES, PUPPET AND MAGIC SHOWS. AND FILM SHOWS.
COPIES OF THE FESTIVAL PROGRAMME, LEAFLETS AND FREE ADMISSION TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICE AND SUB-OFFICES.
THE FESTIVAL HAS BEEN JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD. KWAI TSING DISTRICT ARTS AND CULTURE CO-ORDINATING ASSOCIATION, KWAI TSING DISTRICT OFFICE, THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, AND LOCAL ARTS AND CULTURE GROUPS. THE BUDGET IS ABOUT S500.000.
-------0----------
WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * * *
SIORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 61.5 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR. 360.636 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 244.963 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 41.8 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
------0 ------
/23........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1989
ROYAL VISIT SOUVENIR STAMP SHEETS STILL AVAILABLE * * t # t
A LIMITED NUMBER OF ROYAL VISIT SOUVENIR STAMP SHEETS WHICH REMAINED UNSOLD AT SOME POST OFFICES WILL BE PUT ON SALE AT $5 EACH ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 15). A POST OFFICE SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
THE SOUVENIR SHEETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING THREE PHILATELIC OFFICES: GENERAL POST OFFICE, TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICE, AND SHA TIN CENTRAL POST OFFICE.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE RELEASE OF ROYAL VISIT SPECIAL STAMPS LAST WEDNESDAY HAD BEEN A GREAT SUCCESS, AND THERE HAD BEEN AN OVERWHELMING DEMAND FOR THEM IN MOST POST OFFICES.
”A LIMITED NUMBER OF SOUVENIR SHEETS REMAINED UNSOLD AT THE CLOSE OF BUSINESS AT SOME OFFICES," HE ADDED.
- - 0 - -
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS WATERCOURSE MAINTENANCE IN TA KWU LING ♦ ♦ ♦ r * t
THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS THE MAINTENANCE OF WATERCOURSES IN TA KWU LING AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
MEMBERS WILL ALSO CONSIDER REQUESTS FOR MINOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT WORKS IN THE DISTRICT. THESE INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A RAIN SHELTER. THE ERECTION OF VILLAGE NAME PLATES, AND IMPROVEMENTS TO AN OPEN SPACE AND A VAN TRACK.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE REQUESTS FOR LOCAL PUBLIC WORKS. AND PROGRESS REPORTS ON SQUATTER AREA IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS AND VILLAGE LIGHTING INSTALLATIONS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE NORTH DISTRICT
BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE. JOCKEY CLUB ROAD. FANLING.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM.
- 0 -
/?A
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13. 1989
NOMINATIONS FOR AWARDS CLOSE ON FRIDAY t ♦ ♦ t ♦
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD TODAY (MONDAY) REMINDED RESIDENTS THAT NOMINATIONS FOR THE DISTRICT’S 1989 OUTSTANDING YOUNG PERSONS AWARDS CLOSES ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 17).
ANY PERSON AGED BETWEEN 16 AND 30 WHO LIVES. STUDIES OR WORKS IN THE DISTRICT MAY BE NOMINATED FOR THE AWARD IF HE OR SHF HAS A GOOD RECORD OF COMMUNITY SERVICE.
THE ASSESSMENT CRITERIA ALSO INCLUDE A PERSON’S KNOWLEDGE OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS. ANALYTICAL ABILITY AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS WORK.
THE AWARD SCHEME IS BEING JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD, THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE DISTRICT’S YOUTH RECREATION CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE IN SUPPORT OF THE FIRST YOUTH FESTIVAL IN DECEMBER.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE AWARDS AIMED AT GIVING FORMAL RECOGNITION TO YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIETY, AND PROVIDING INCENTIVES FOR THEM TO BUILD A CARING AND RESPONSIBLE COMMUNITY.
THE TOP THREE WINNERS WILL EACH BE OFFERED AN EIGHT-DAY STUDY TRIP TO SINGAPORE IN FEBRUARY NEXT YEAR IN ADDITION TO A TROPHY.
SEVEN OTHER OUTSTANDING CANDIDATES WILL EACH BE AWARDED A J500 BOOK COUPON AND A TROPHY.
SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE INVITED TO ATTEND AN INTERVIEW BY A PANEL OF FIVE ADJUDICATORS ON NOVEMBER 29.
THE ADJUDICATORS ARE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL COMMITTEE ON YOUTH. MRS ROSANNA TAM: EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GARY YEUNG: DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR SHUM (HOI-SANG: CHAIRMAN OF THE D I STR I CT ’ S YOUTH R.E< RIAT I ON CO-ORD I NAT I NG COMM I TTEF , MISS SUN FONG-CHUNG: AND CH AIRMAN OF THE WORKING GROUP ON YOUTH FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES IN Till DISTRICT. MR WU TING-PANG.
NOMINATION FORMS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS THREE SUB-OFFICES.
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MONDAY. NOVEMBER 13, 1989
25
CANTONESE OPERA DAY FOR THE ELDERLY t * t I ♦
A CANTONESE OPERA DAY FOR THE ELDERLY WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) AT THE WONG TAT SIN COMMUNITY CENTRE AS PART OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
IT WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM. ADMISSION IS FREE.
REPRESENTATIVES FROM VARIOUS VOLUNTARY AGENCIES TN THE DISTRICT WILL PRESENT CANTONESE OPERATIC SONGS TO HUNDREDS OF ELDERLY PEOPLE WHO ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND THE FUNCTION.
THE OPERA DAY WILL PROVIDE THOSE ELDERLY PEOPLE WHO LOVE SINGING CANTONESE OPERATIC SONGS WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXCHANGE SINGING EXPERIENCES AND TO ENTERTAIN AN AUDIENCE, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CANTONESE OPERA DAY FOR THE ELDERLY OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL. IT WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (TUESDAY) AT THE WONG TAI SIN COMMUNITY CENTRE. 104 CHING TAK STREET.
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TEMPORARY NIGHT CLOSURE OF FEI TSUI ROAD ♦ ♦ i i ♦
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FEI TSUI ROAD NEAR THE ACCESS ROAD TO HING WAH ESTATE IN CHAI WAN WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC INTERMITTENTLY BETWEEN 1 AM AND 5.30 AM DA HA FROM WEDNESDAY TO SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 15 TO 18) BECAUSE OF FLYOVER WORKS.
DURING THIS PERIOD. FEI TSUI ROAD WILL BE OPENED AT 15-M1NUTE INTERVALS AND IMMEDIATELY FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES.
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/26........
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 13, 1989
- 26 -
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR KING’S ROAD RECONSTRUCTION
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT TO FACILITATE THE RECONSTRUCTION OF KING’S ROAD, TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN NORTH POINT FROM 10 AM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 15) FOR ABOUT 10 MONTHS.
ALL VEHICLES EXCEPT BUSES AND THOSE REQUIRING LOCAL ACCESS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO TURN RIGHT FROM JAVA ROAD ONTO TONG SHUI ROAD SOUTHBOUND.
IN ADDITION, ALL VEHICLES WILL BE BANNED FROM TURNING RIGHT FROM TONG SHUI ROAD ONTO KING’S ROAD WESTBOUND.
CENTRAL-BOUND CMB ROUTE 16 WILL BE DIVERTED VIA JAVA ROAD, KAM HONG STREET AND KING’S ROAD WESTBOUND BEFORE RESUMING ITS NORMAL ROUTEING.
MOREOVER, VEHICLES WILL BE BANNED FROM ENTERING TONG SHUI ROAD SOUTHBOUND BETWEEN JAVA ROAD AND KING’S ROAD.
AT THE SAME TIME. THE EXISTING TRAM LANE ON KING’S ROAD WESTBOUND FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH TONG SHUI ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 90 METRES TO THE EAST WILL BE LIFTED.
-----0-----
WATER CUT IN YAU MA TEI ♦ * ♦ ♦
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN YAU MA TEI WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 11 PM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 15) TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE A NIGHT LEAKAGE TEST.
THE AREA AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY JORDAN ROAD. CANTON ROAD. SHANGHAI STREET. KANSU STREET. INCLUDING PAK HOI STREET. SAIGON STREET, NING PO STREET. NANKING STREET, BATTERY STREET AND RECLAMATION STREET.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR TO PRESS FOR GENEROUS PACKAGE FOR HONG KONG...... 1
1988 OVERSEAS INVESTMENT GROWS BY 24 PER CENT............. 2
ACHIEVING BETTER UNDERSTANDINGS A MAJOR CHALLENGE ........ 4
UNEMPLOYMENT, UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS FOR JULY - SEPT .... 5
EIGHTH MEETING OF PROVISIONAL HOSPITAL AUTHORITY ......... 7
11 QUESTIONS ON LEGCO AGENDA ............................. 9
PROPOSED COMPOSITE INDUSTRIAL-OFFICE BUILDINGS ........... 9
CHIEF FIRE OFFICER TO RETIRE AFTER 55 YEARS' SERVICE...... 11
RELICS UNEARTHED AT LUNG KWU TAN EXCAVATION .............. 11
ARTS FESTIVAL FOR EASTERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS ............. 12
MUSICAL TREAT FOR WONG TAI SIN RESIDENTS ................. 15
DB TO DISCUSS DEVELOPMENT OF AIRPORT SITE................. 14
DB COMMITTEE TO BE BRIEFED ON NEW EXHIBITION SERVICE CENTRE . 14
TEMPORARY SWITCH-OFF OF RTHK FM FREQUENCIES .............. 15
WINNERS IN ESSAY COMPETITION RECEIVE PRIZES .............. 15
HAWKER AND RETAILER FINED FOR USING INACCURATE WEIGHING INSTRUMENTS .............................................. 17
MORRISON HILL POST OFFICE RE-OPENS ON MONDAY ............. 18
HK JOINS WORLD STAMP EXPO '89 ............................ 18
MUSIC OFFICE RECRUITS PROFESSIONAL STAFF ................. 19
LAST CALL FOR ENTRIES TO ANTI-DRUG SYMBOL DESIGN CONTEST .... 19
AUCTION OF SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS ........................... 20
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT FOR MOVEMENT OF PLANE................. 21
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 14. 1989
GOVERNOR TO PRESS FOR GENEROUS PACKAGE FOR HONG KONG
* ♦ t t t
THE GOVERNOR. STR DAVID WILSON. SAID TONIGHT (TUESDAY) THAT HE WILL BE PRESSING FOR A GENEROUS PACKAGE FOR HONG KONG ON THE RIGHT OF ABODE ISSUE WHEN HE MEETS GOVERNMENT MINISTERS IN LONDON.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AT THE AIRPORT. STR DAVID SAID THIS WOULD ENABLE US TO KEEP IN HONG KONG SOME OF THE KEY PEOPLE TO ENSURE THAT THE TERRITORY KEPT GOING BOTH IN TERMS OF THE ECONOMY AND THE GOVERNMENT. .. _
ASKED TO COMMENT ON COMPLAINTS FROM CIVIL SERVANTS THAT THE PLANS WOULD GIVE MORE PLACES TO PEOPLE FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR. THE GOVERNOR SAID : "WHAT WE NEED IS A BALANCED PACKAGE. WE NEED TO COVER ALL SECTORS OF THE COMMUNITY."
"OF COURSE. WE HAVE A CONCERN FOR PEOPLE IN THE GOVERNMENT SERVICE. THEY’RE ESSENTIAL FOR KEEPING HONG KONG AS A WHOLE GOING. BUT WE’VE GOT AN EQUAL CONCERN FOR OTHER. PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY." HE SAID.
"WHAT WE WANT IS A BALANCED PACKAGE/* AND AS I WAS SAYING EARLIER. WE WANT A GENEROUS PACKAGE AS WELL. AND THAT’S WHAT I SHALL BE ARGUING FOR." HE ADDED. • •
SIR DAVID ALSO DESCRIBED UK PRESS REPORTS THAT THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT WAS ONLY WILLING TO OFFER A MAXIMUM OF 150.000 PASSPORTS TO HONG KONG PEOPLE AS HIGHLY SPECULATIVE AT THE MOMENT.
ANOTHER ISSUE THE GOVERNOR WILL BF DISCUSSING WHI LI IN LONDON IS THAT OF THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE.
SIR DAVID SAID THAT THERE WAS A NEED. DURING THE WINTER PERIOD. TO GET IN PLAUE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE ORDERLY RETURN OF PEOPLE WHO ARE NOT REFUGEES TO VIETNAM UNDER ACCEPTABLE MONITORING CONDITIONS.
ASKED TO COMMENT ON A UK NEWSPAPER REPORT THAT BRITAIN HAD GIVEN A SECRET PROMISE TO PEKING THAT IT WOULD MAKE NO MAJOR CHANGES TO HONG KONG’S POLITICAL SYSTEM BEFORE 1997. THE GOVERNOR SAID: "THAT ALLEGATION THAT THERE WAS SOME SECRET AGREEMENT IN 1984 IS ABSOLUTE NONSENSE. THERE WAS NO SUCH SECRET AGREEMENT."
SIR DAVID SAID THE PURPOSE OF HIS VISIT TO LONDON WAS TO MEET THE NEW FOREIGN SECRETARY. MR DOUGLAS HURD. AND THE NEW HOME SECRETARY. MR DAVID WADDINGTON. AND TO BRING THEM UP-TO-DATE ON HONG KONG VIEWS ON MATTERS THEY WERE DEALING WITH.
/’’THEN I..........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1?89
2
"THEN I WILL. AS USUAL. TAKE THE CHANCE TO MEET WITH OTHER SENIOR OFFICIALS IN THE FOREIGN OFFICE. AND 1 WILL BE MEETING SOME MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS AND THI HOUSE OF LORDS WHO ARE PARTICULARLY INTERESTED IN HONG KONG AFFAIRS. ' HE \DDED.
THE GOVERNOR’ WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON SATURDAY
.’NOVEMBER 18).
HE WAS SEEN OFF AT THE AIRPORT BY LADY WILSON. AND THE CHIEF SECRF.TARY . S 11.* D AV I D FORD .
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1988 OVERSEAS INVESTMENT GROWS BY 24 PER CENT * t * * I
OVERSEAS INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES GREW BY 21 PER CENT LAST YEAR, ACCORDING TO THE LATEST SURVEY REPORT RELEASED BY THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY).
ANNOUNCING RESULTS OF THE SURVEY AT
DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR T.ll. BARMA. SAID IN HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES AT
A PRESS CONFERENCE, THE TOTAL OVERSEAS INVESTMENT THE END OF 1988 HAD RISEN
TO $26,172 MILLION -- 24 PER ('ENT HIGHER THAN IN 1987 AND DOUBLE THE FIGURE RECORDED AT SEPTEMBER 1984.
MORE THAN
THE 1989 SURVEY OF OVERSEAS INVESTMENT TN HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES IS THE LATEST IN A SERIES OF SURVEYS UNDERTAKEN ANNUALLY BY THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT TO ASSESS THE LEV El AND TYPE OF OVERSEAS INVESTMENT IN MANUFACTURING.
THE SURVEY 1 DENT IFI ED 605 MANUFACTURI NG COMPANIES WITH OVERSEAS INVESTMENT IN 1988 COMPARED WITH 593 TN THE PREVIOUS YEAR.
MR BARMA SAID Till UNITED STATES CONTINUED TO BE THE LEADING SOURCE OF INVESTMENT. CONTRIBUTING 31 PER ('ENT OF TOTAL OVERSEAS INVESTMENT.
"JAPAN. CHINA AND THE UNITED KINGDOM REMAINED IN SECOND, THIRD AND FOURTH PLACES. WITH 27 PER CENT. 11 PER ('ENT AND NINE PER CENT OF TOTAL INVESTMENT RESPECTIVELY.” HE SAID.
"HOWEVER, JAPAN INVESTED MORE IN HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES IN 1988 THAN ANY OTHER INVESTING COUNTRY AND, IF ITS PRESENT RATI OF INVESTMENT CONTINUES, IT MAY SOON CHALLENGE THE UNITED STATES IN THE FIRST PLACE." HE ADDED.
MR BARMzY SAID Till MAIN AIM OI THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT’S INWARD INVESTMENT PROMOTION PROGRAMME WAS TO ENCOURAGE OVERSEAS INVESTORS TO INTRODK 1 TO HONG KONG. THROUGH THEIR INVESTMENTS. NEW OR IMPROVED PRODUCTS . PROCESSES . DES 1 GNS AND MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES .
/"THE SURVEY .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
- 5 -
"THE SURVEY RESULTS ARE ENCOURAGING IN THIS RESPECT." HE SAID.
MR BARMA SAID 242 COMPANIES WITH AN OVERSEAS INTEREST. OR IO PER CENT OF THE TOTAL, WERE JOINT VENTURES WITH LOCAL PARTNERS. A FORM OF CO-OPERATION WHICH PROVIDED A GOOD OPPORTUNITY FOR TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER.
"IN ABOUT 40 PER CENT OF THE COMPANIES, STAFF HAVE BEEN DEPLOYED FROM THE PARENT COMPANIES OVERSEAS TO PROVIDE GUIDANCE OR ASSISTANCE IN AREAS SUCH AS COMPANY MANAGEMENT, OPERATIONS, AND RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.
"THREE HUNDRED AND THIRTY COMPANIES. OR 55 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL, REPORTED THAT THEY EITHER HAD LICENSING ARRANGEMENTS WITH THE OVERSEAS PARENT COMPANY. OR HAD RECEIVED TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE OR HELP IN ACQUIRING MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT FROM THEM," MR BARMA SAID.
HE SAID THE SURVEY ALSO SHOWED THAT OVERSEAS INVESTORS HAD BEEN INVOLVED IN THE TRANSFER OF ONE OR MORE TYPES OF ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY. ESPECIALLY IN THE ELECTRONICS AND ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES.
THE MOST COMMON TYPES OF ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY OF GENERAL APPLICATION TRANSFERRED WERE MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS, TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS. COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN SYSTEMS AND MATERIAL REQUIREMENT PLANNING SOFTWARE SYSTEMS.
IN INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES. OVERSEAS INVESTORS HAD BEEN INVOLVED IN THE TRANSFER OF SURFACE MOUNT TECHNOLOGY (SMT), MULTI-LAYER PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD. AND APPLICATION SPECIFIC INTEGRATED CIRCUIT (ASIC) DESIGN IN THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY: COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING (CAE) PACKAGES IN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS AND AUTOMATED ASSEMBLY IN THE ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRY; PROPRIETY QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEMS IN THE CHEMICAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRY: AND REAL TIME DATA COLLECTION IN THE TEXTILES AND CLOTHING INDUSTRY.
MR BARMA SAID THAT DESPITE THE IMPACT OF RECENT EVENTS IN CHINA. 62 PER CENT OF THE RESPONDING COMPANIES CONSIDERED THE MANUFACTURING INVESTMENT ENVIRONMENT IN HONG KONG TO BE FAVOURABLE.
"MOST COMPANIES COMMENTED FAVOURABLY ON HONG KONG'S BANKING AND FINANCIAL FACILITIES, INFRASTRUCTURE, GOVERNMENT ECONOMIC POLICY, BUSINESS LAWS AND REGULATIONS. CORPORATE TAXES AND REGIONAL LOCATION." HE SAID.
TWO HUNDRED AND TWENTY-TWO COMPANIES HAD PLANS TO EXPAND THEIR PRODUCTION. SIXTY-THREI COMPANIES PLANNED TO INTRODUCE NEW PRODUCTION PROCESSES AND 89 WERE DEVELOPING NEW PRODUCTS. HE ADDED.
COPIES OF THE SURVEY REPORT ARE AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE FROM THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT.
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/4
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 14, 1989
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ACHIEVING BETTER UNDERSTANDINGS A MAJOR CHALLENGE K » t t ♦ *
ONE 01 THE MAJOR CHALLENGES THAT HONG KONG EACES DURING THE 1990'S IS ACHIEVING BETTER UNDERSTANDINGS WITH CHINA BASED ON MUTUAL TRUST. THE SECRETARY 1’OR ECONOMIC SERVICES, MRS ANSON CHAN. SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE ASIAN BUSINESS EORUM, MRS CHAN SAID THAT FOR
THE GOOD OF HONG KONG, IT WAS IMPERATIVE THAT WE LEARNT TO MANAGE OUR
RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR FUTURE SOVEREIGN POWER.
"THE LAST FEW MONTHS HAVE BEEN A TRYING AND SOBERING
EXPERIENCE FOR US ALL BUT IT IS TIME TO PUT THAT BEHIND US AND TO GET
ON WITH LIFE," SHE SAID.
MRS CHAN POINTED OUT THAT A PROSPEROUS AND STABLE HONG KONG WAS, HAD BEEN, AND ALWAYS WOULD BE IN THE INTERESTS OF CHINA. *
CURRENTLY HONG KONG AND CHINA WERE EACH OTHER’S MOST IMPORTANT TRADING PARTNERS AND HONG KONG WAS CHINA’S MOST IMPORTANT SOURCE OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE AND EXTERNAL INVESTMENT, SHE POINTED OUT.
"THIS DOES NOT, HOWEVER, MEAN THAT THERE IS NOT SCOPE FOR US TO IMPROVE OUR RELATIONSHIPS,” SHE ADDED.
SHE SAID THE AMBITIOUS PROGRAMMES ANNOUNCED BY THE GOVERNOR IN HIS OPENING ADDRESS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CLEARLY DEMONSTRATED THE GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE.
"OUR INNATE GOOD SENSE. OUR UNDAUNTING SPIRIT, PRAGMATISM AND * RESILIENCE HAVE SEEN US THROUGH PREVIOUS TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS. THEY WILL DO SO AGAIN," SHE SAID.
TURNING TO THE ROLE OF HONG KONG AS A MAJOR REGIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE, MRS (HAN SAM- THAT SINCE THE MID-1970’8, EXPANSION IN REGIONAL ECONOMIC ACTIVITY, FINANCIAL INNOVATIONS AND THE GLOBAL LIBERALISATION OF FINANCIAL MARKETS HAD ALL FACILITATED THE GROWTH OF HONG KONG’S FINANCIAL SECTOR.
"THE OPENING UP OF ('HINA’S ECONOMY HAS PRESENTED ADDITIONAL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR HONG KONG’S FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND HAS ALSO ATTRACTED FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS FROM ELSEWHERE TO OPERATE IN HONG KONG.
"NOTWITHSTANDING COMPETITION FROM OTHER FINANCIAL CENTRES IN THI REGION. SUCH AS TOKYO AND SINGAPORE, THE PROSPECTS FOR FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG’S FINANCIAL SECTOR ARE ENCOURAGING," SHE SAID.
"WE SHALL NEVERTHELESS NEED TO KEEP A WATCHFUL EYE ON DEVELOPMENT ELSEWHERE TO ENSURE HONG KONG CONTINUES TO REMAIN AN ATTRACTIVE AND COMPETITIVE REGIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE," SHE POINTED. OUT.
/MRS CHAN .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
5 -
MRS CHAN POINTED OUT THAT IN MANAGING OUR AFFAIRS OVER THE NEXT DECADE IT WOULD BE ESSENTIAL NOT TO DEVIATE FROM THOSE POLICIES THAT HAVE SERVED US SO WELL IN THE PAST.
"IN ESSENCE THIS MEANT: REMAINING A STAUNCH SUPPORTER OF FREE TRADE AND FREE ENTERPRISE, NONINTERFERENCE BY THE GOVERNMENT IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR - EXCEPT WHERE ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY, MAINTAINING A FIRST CLASS INFRASTRUCTURE, MAINTAINING LOW CORPORATE AND INCOME TAXES. AND SUSTAINING THE PROGRAMME RECENTLY ANNOUNCED TO EXPAND EDUCATION AT THE TERTIARY LEVEL TO MEET THE DEMAND CAUSED, NOT ONLY BY EMIGRATION, BUT BY THE CHANGING STRUCTURE OF OUR ECONOMY IN WHICH THE SERVICE SECTOR IS GAINING PROMINENCE," SHE SAID.
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UNEMPLOYMENT. UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS FOR JULY - SEPT
THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE REMAINED AT A LOW LEVEL. WHILE THE UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE DECLINED FURTHER DURING THE PERIOD JULY -SEPTEMBER 1989.
THE LATEST LABOUR FORCE STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (TUESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT INDICATE THAT THE TIGHT LABOUR MARKET SITUATION CONTINUED.
THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR JULY - SEPTEMBER 1989 WAS 1.4 PER CENT. WHICH WAS THE SAME AS THAT FOR APRIL - JUNE 1989 BUT WAS LOWER THAN 1.6 PER CENT FOR THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD A YEAR EARLIER.
THE DECREASE OF 0.2 OF A PERCENTAGE POINT BELOW THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD A YEAR EARLIER IS STATISTICALLY SIGNIFICANT.
THE NUMBER OF UNEMPLOYED PERSONS IN JULY - SEPTEMBER 1989 WAS ESTIMATED AT 37,500, COMPARED WITH 38,600 FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JUNE 1989 AND 13.800 FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING SEPTEMBER 1988.
THE UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE FOR JULY - SEPTEMBER 1989 WAS 0.6 PER CENT, WHICH WAS LOWER THAN 0.8 I ER CENT FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JUNE 1989 BUT WAS Illi SAME AS THAT FOR THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD OF 1 988 .
THE DECREASE OF 0.2 OF A PERCENTAGE POINT BELOW THE PRECEDING THREE-MONTH PERIOD IS STATISTICALLY SIGNIFICANT.
THE ESTIMATED NUMBER OF' UNDEREMPLOYED PERSONS FOR JULY SEPTEMBER 1989 WAS 17,100, COMPARED WITH 22,800 FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JUNE 1989 AND 15,400 FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING SEPTEMBER 1988.
/CONSISTENT WITH .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
- 6 -
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 COMMISSIONER ADDED THAT, BASED ON A SYSTEM OF PROVISIONAL COUNTS, THE 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 UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT SITUATION.
THE PROVISIONAL SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR AUGUST - OCTOBER 1989 WAS 1.1 PER CENT AND THE PROVISIONAL UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE WAS 0.7 PER CENT.
THE UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS WERE OBTAINED FROM A CONTINUOUS GENERAL HOUSEHOLD SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THIS SURVEY COVERED A QUARTERLY SAMPLE OF SOME 14,000 HOUSEHOLDS OR 51,000 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 1LO.
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 1989 WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GPO BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AROUND DECEMBER 20 AT $10 PER COPY .
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/7........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
EIGHTH MEETING OF PROVISIONAL HOSPITAL AUTHORITY »»«»»*
THE PROVISIONAL HOSPITAL AUTHORITY (PHA) REVIEWED THE PROGRESS OF PREPARATORY WORK ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY (HA) BY APRIL 1, 1990 AT ITS EIGHTH MEETING TODAY (TUESDAY).
SPEAKING AFTER THE MEETING, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PHA, SIR S.Y. CHUNG, SAID THAT ACTIVE DRAFTING WORK OF THE PHA REPORT IS NOW IN HAND.
"THE REPORT WILL CONTAIN THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE PHA ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY, AND IS EXPECTED TO BE SUBMITTED TO THE GOVERNMENT BY THE END OF THIS YEAR."
THE REPORT WILL COVER SUCH MAJOR ISSUES AS THE AUTHORITY STRUCTURE, NEW HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT, THE FINANCING OF HOSPITAL SERVICES, THE STATUTORY POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF THE AUTHORITY, THE INTEGRATION OF EXISTING GOVERNMENT AND SUBVENTED HOSPITALS, THE NEW TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT FOR HOSPITAL AUTHORITY STAFF AND SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE TEACHING HOSPITALS.
SIR S.Y. EMPHASISED THAT THE PHA CAN ONLY MAKE BROAD RECOMMENDATIONS IN VIEW OF THE LIMITED TIME FOR DELIBERATIONS. SUBJECT TO THESE RECOMMENDATIONS BEING ACCEPTED BY THE GOVERNMENT, IT IS ENVISAGED THAT THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY WHEN SET UP WILL DEVELOP IN MORE DETAIL THE VARIOUS RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE PHA.
SIR S.Y.. WHO IS ALSO THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PHA STAFFING COMMITTEE, SAID THAT THE DRAWING UP OF RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE NEW HA TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE BASED ON THE CONSULTANTS' PROPOSALS IS NEARING COMPLETION AND THEY WILL CERTAINLY BE INCLUDED IN THE PHA REPORT.
THE NEW TERMS WILL BE INTRODUCED ON A DATE TO BE SPECIFIED FOR THE TAKEOVER OF MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY FOR ALL PUBLIC HOSPITALS BY THE HA. THIS DATE WILL BE SOME MONTHS AFTER THE FORMAL ESTABLISHMENT OF THE HA, WHICH IS EXPECTED TO BE IN APRIL 1990. SUBJECT TO THE ENACTMENT OF THE NECESSARY LEGISLATION.
"UNTIL THE TAKEOVER BY THE HA, THE EXISTING GOVERNMENT AND SUBVENTED HOSPITALS WILL CONTINUE TO BE RUN BY THE HOSPITAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND THE SUBVENTED ORGANISATIONS RESPECTIVELY AND EXISTING TERMS AND CONDITIONS WILL CONTINUE TO APPLY TO STAFF.
"THERE IS THEREFORE NO QUESTION OF THE NEW TERMS BEING INTRODUCED ON THE FIRST DAY WHEN THE HA IS ESTABLISHED BECAUSE THE EMPLOYERS OF HOSPITAL STAFF WILL REMAIN THE GOVERNMENT AND SUBVENTED HOSPITAL BOARDS AT THAT TIME."
THE NEW HA TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE WILL REQUIRE A NEW PAYROLL SYSTEM TO BE DEVISED FOR THE FUTURE AUTHORITY. THE PHA IS ACTIVELY CONSIDERING THE DESIGN OF A NEW SYSTEM. INVOLVING EXPERTISE FROM THE TREASURY AND OUTSIDE FIRMS.
/THI8 IS .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
- 8 -
THIS IS ONLY BUT ONE OF THE MANY DETAILED IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES WHICH THE HA WILL NEED TIME TO WORK OUT BEFORE IT CAN TAKE OVER THE PUBLIC HOSPITAL SYSTEM.
THE CONSULTANTS ENGAGED TO VALIDATE THE PHA HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE’S RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE NEW HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR PUBLIC HOSPITALS HAVE COMPLETED THEIR ASSIGNMENT.
DURING THE CONSULTANCY. BRIEFING SESSIONS WERE HELD WITH HOSPITAL STAFF. THE RESPONSE TO THE PROPOSED NEW HA HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE WAS GENERALLY FAVOURABLE.
VARIOUS SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENTS OF THE NEW SYSTEM WERE MADE BY STAFF AND WERE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT BY THE CONSULTANTS IN PRESENTING THEIR FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE PHA.
"IT IS ENCOURAGING TO NOTE THAT STAFF ARE GENERALLY RECEPTIVE TO THE IMPENDING CHANGES WHICH ARE MEANT TO PROMOTE THE EFFICIENCY OF THE HOSPITALS AND TO IMPROVE PATIENT SERVICE." SIR S.Y. SAID.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NEW MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE WILL BE CARRIED OUT IN A PHASED MANNER INVOLVING A NUMBER OF HOSPITALS IN BATCHES SPREAD OVER SEVERAL PHASES LASTING THREE TO FOUR YEARS. CAREFUL SELECTION OF THE FIRST BATCH OF PILOT HOSPITALS IS BEING MADE.
CONSULTANTS HAVE BEEN COMMISSIONED TO DRAW UP THE NEW PERSONNEL REGULATIONS AND PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL SYSTEM.
THE ASSIGNMENT IS DUE TO START LATER THIS MONTH AND WILL BE COMPLETED IN ABOUT FOUR MONTHS’ TIME. THE PA CONSULTING GROUP HAS BEEN ENGAGED FOR THIS CONSULTANCY.
"AS THE FUTURE AUTHORITY WILL BE AN INDEPENDENT STATUTORY BODY SEPARATE FROM THE CIVIL SERVICE. A NEW SYSTEM OF PERSONNEL REGULATIONS AND PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL IS NECESSARY.
"AS IT IS INEVITABLE THAT A MIXED STAFF SITUATION. CONSISTING OF CIVIL SERVANTS WORKING IN THE HA, HA EMPLOYEES AND FORMER SUBVERTED HOSPITAL STAFF RETAINING THEIR PREVIOUS STATUS. WILL EXIST FOR SOME TIME AFTER THE HA IS SET UP. THE NEW SYSTEM TO BE DRAWN UP SHOULD NOT DEVIATE TOO MUCH FROM THE CIVIL SERVICE MODEL SO THAT DISPARITY IN THE TREATMENT OF HA STAFF ON DIFFERENT TERMS CAN BE REDUCED AS FAR AS POSSIBLE." SIR S.Y. SAID.
"THERE WILL BE FURTHER OPPORTUNITIES AT A LATER STAGE FOR HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT AND STAFF TO BE MORE FULLY BRIEFED ON THE PHA’S RECOMMENDATIONS." HE CONCLUDED.
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/9........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
11 QUESTIONS ON LEGCO AGENDA * * ♦ * ♦
MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL ASK A TOTAL OF 11 QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER SIX BILLS AT THE COUNCIL'S MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
TWO BILLS WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
THEY ARE THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 AND THE STAMP DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989.
SECOND READING DEBATES ON FOUR BILLS WILL BE RESUMED, AND EACH BILL IS THEN DUE TO GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE GIVEN A THIRD READING.
THEY ARE THE CONTROL OF EXEMPTION CLAUSES BILL 1989, THE RECOGNITION OF TRUSTS BILL 1989. THE MERCHANT SHIPPING (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989, AND THE HOSPITALS, NURSING HOMES AND MATERNITY HOMES REGISTRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989.
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PROPOSED COMPOSITE INDUSTRIAL-OFFICE BUILDINGS
*****
THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD HAS ENDORSED THE CONCEPT OF COMPOSITE INDUSTRIAL-OFFICE BUILDINGS TO CATER FOR THE CHANGING NEEDS OF THE INDUSTRI A). SECTOR IN HONG KONG.
THE CONCEPT IS DEEMED NECESSARY IN VIEW OF THE INCREASING DEMAND AMONG INDUSTRIAL FIRMS FOR MORE FLOOR SPACE TO BE SET ASIDE FOR MANAGEMENT. ADMINISTRATION. DESIGN. QUALITY CONTROL. STORAGE AND OTHER QUASI-INDUSTRIAL ACTIVITIES WHICH CANNOT BE ACCOMMODATED IN NORMAL COMMERCIAL OFFICE BUILDINGS.
IT IS EXPECTED THAT THIS TREND WILL CONTINUE, RESULTING IN THE NEED TO GIVE FLEXIBILITY IN PROVIDING ACCOMMODATION FOR BOTH INDUSTRIAL AND OFFICE PURPOSES.
A TOWN PLANNING BOARD SPOKESMAN SAID SINCE THE COMPOSITE INDUSTRI AL-OFFICE BUILDING CONCEPT IS A NEW ONE. ITS IMPLEMENTATION WILL BE REGULARLY MONITORED AND REVIEWED. INITIALLY, ITS APPLICATION WILL BE RESTRICTED TO THE EXISTING METROPOLITAN AREA, THAT IS, HONG KONG ISLAND, KOWLOON AND TSUEN WAN.
THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD HAD REQUESTED THE TOWN PLANNING OFFICE TO CONDUCT FURTHER STUDIES TO IDENTIFY APPROPRIATE SITES TN EXISTING METROPOLITAN INDUSTRIAL ARRAS FOR SPECIFIC REZONING FOR INDUSTRIAL/OFFICE USE.
/MEANWHILE, APPLICATIONS
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1U, 1989
10
MEANWHILE, APPLICATIONS TO BUILD COMPOSITE BUILDINGS ON INDUSTRIAL SITES CAN BE CONSIDERED ON MERITS THROUGH THE PLANNING PERMISSION SYSTEM.
INDUSTRIAL-OFFICE
THEIR INDIVIDUAL
THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD HAD CONSULTED VARIOUS INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL AND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATIONS AS WELL AS RELEVANT PROFESSIONAL INSTITUTES BEFORE ENDORSING THE COMPOSITE INDUSTRIAL-OFFICE BUILDING PROPOSAL.
"THE PROPOSAL HAS GAINED GENERAL SUPPORT IN VIEW OF ITS FLEXIBILITY IN MEETING CURRENT ACCOMMODATION DEMAND OF THE INDUSTRIAL SECTOR," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
WITH RESPECT TO THE BOARD'S CURRENT GUIDELINE TO PERMIT WITHOUT PLANNING APPLICATION AN INDUSTRIAL FIRM TO USE UP TO 30 PER CENT OF ITS USABLE FLOOR SPACE IN AN INDUSTRIAL BUILDING FOR ANCILLARY OFFICE PURPOSE, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THIS "30 PER CENT RULE" WOULD NOT BE APPLICABLE TO THE PROPOSED COMPOSITE INDUSTRIAL-OFFICE BUILDINGS.
HOWEVER, IT WOULD STILL BE ENFORCED IN EXISTING BONA FIDE INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS TO PROVIDE CONTROL AGAINST ANY UNWARRANTED INFILTRATION OF NON-INDUSTRY-RELATED ACTIVITIES INTO SUCH BUILDINGS.
UNDER THE PROPOSAL OF COMPOSITE INDUSTRIAL-OFFICE BUILDINGS, EVERY UNIT SHOULD BE DESIGNED. CONSTRUCTED AND MADE SUITABLE FOR BOTH INDUSTRIAL AND OFFICE USES.
TO SERVE BOTH PURPOSES, THIS NEW TYPE OF BUILDING MUST COMPLY WITH ALL THE RELEVANT BUILDING REGULATIONS APPLICABLE TO BOTH INDUSTRIAL AND OFFICE BUILDINGS. INCLUDING FLOOR LOADING, COMPARTMENTATION. LIGHTING VENTILATION, PROVISIONS OF MEANS OF ESCAPE, AND SANITARY FITMENTS.
MOREOVER, THERE SHOULD BE SEPARATE ENTRANCES AND LIFT LOBBIES FOR BOTH GOODS AND PASSENGERS IN THE COMPOSITE BUILDING.
PARKING AS WELL AS LOADING/UNLOADING FACILITIES FOR GOODS VEHICLES WITHIN THE BUILDING, INCLUDING VERTICAL TRANSFER OF GOODS, SHOULD ALSO MEET THE STANDARDS REQUIRED FOR INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS.
PERMITTED ACTIVITIES WITHIN THE PROPOSED INDUSTRIAL-OFFICE BUILDING WOULD BE RESTRICTED TO THOSE RELATED TO INDUSTRIAL AND QUASI INDUSTRIAL OPERATIONS. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF HEAVY AND NOXIOUS INDUSTRI AL OPERATIONS.
OWING TO FIRE SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS. GENERAL COMMERCIAL USES SUCH AS RESTAURANTS AND SUPERMARKETS WOULD NOT NORMALLY BE ALLOWED.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT TOWN PLANNER, DR PETER PUN, WILL EXPLAIN DETAILS OF THE PROPOSAL TO MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA TODAY (TUESDAY) AT HIS FOURTH FLOOR OFFICE, IN MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, CENTRAL. THE SESSION WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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/11 ........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
11
CHIEF FIRE OFFICER TO RETIRE AFTER 35 YEARS’ SERVICE ♦ ♦ ♦ * ♦
I
THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES, MR JOHN MARCH, TODAY (TUESDAY) PRESENTED A SOUVENIR TO CHIEF FIRE OFFICER TAM YUK-FAN WHO WILL BE RETIRING SHORTLY AFTER 35 YEARS’ SERVICE WITH THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
MR MARCH PRESENTED THE SOUVENIR ON BEHALF OF THE DEPARTMENT AND MR TAM’S COLLEAGUES AT A CEREMONY HELD AT THE FIRE SERVICES HEADQUARTERS IN TSTM SHA TSUI RAST.
MR TAM YUK-FAN IS AT PRESENT HEAD OF THE HONG KONG COMMAND. BORN IN 1932. MR TAM JOINED THE FIRE SERVICES AS A SUB-OFFICER IN _1954 AND WAS PROMOTED TO STATION OFFICER IN 1962. HE WAS PROMOTED TO ASSISTANT DIVISIONAL OFFICER FIVE YEARS LATER AND DIVISIONAL OFFICER IN 1975.
MR TAM ROSE TO THE RANK OF SENIOR DIVISIONAL OFFICER IN 1980 AND DEPUTY CHIEF FIRE OFFICER IN 1985. HE REACHED HIS PRESENT RANK IN 1987.
HE WAS AWARDED THE COLONIAL POLICE MEDAL FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE IN 1976 AND THE QUEEN’S FIRE SERVICES MEDAL THIS YEAR.
DURING HIS LONG SERVICE WITH THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR TAM HAS SERVED IN VARIOUS OPERATIONAL AND FIRE PROTECTION FORMATIONS IOF THE DEPARTMENT.
HE WAS AWARDED THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES’ COMMENDATION FOR FORTITUDE. DEVOTION TO DUTY AND DISREGARD OF HIS PERSONAL SAFETY IN A SPECIAL SERVICE IN 1967 AT THE HONG KONG AND CHINA GAS COMPANY IN TO ,KWA WAN WHERE A PERSON WAS FOUND TRAPPED INSIDE A WATER SEALED GASHOLDER.
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RELICS UNEARTHED AT LUNG KWU TAN EXCAVATION ♦ ♦ » * * »
A NUMBER OF SIGNIFICANT RELICS HAVE BEEN UNEARTHED DURING THE RESCUE EXCAVATION AT LUNG KWU TAN IN TUEN MUN SINCE WORK STARTED EARLY LAST MONTH.
IT IS ESTIMATED THE RELICS WOULD DATE BACK TO THE LATE NEOLITHIC PERIOD. AND SHED LIGHT ON THE PREHISTORIC PEOPLE WHO LIVED IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE RELICS INCLUDE ARTISTIC OBJECTS SUCH AS POLISHED QUARTZ RINGS. COARSE CORDED POTS AND A WIDE RANGE OF STONE IMPLEMENTS SUCH AS HAMMERS, GRINDING STONES. CRYSTAL FLAKES AND SPLITTERS.
/ALSO, A ........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1U, 1989
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ALSO, A POSSIBLE LATE NEOLITHIC BURIAL HAS BEEN REVEALED INITIALLY, AND IT IS STILL UNDER INVESTIGATION. OTHER RESCUE EXCAVATIONS ARE IN PROGRESS.
THE EXCAVATION IS BEING CONDUCTED JOINTLY BY THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE OF THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH AND THE INSTITUTE OF CHINESE STUDIES OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG.
THE DIRECTORS OF THE EXCAVATION ARE THE CURATOR (ARCHAEOLOGY) OF THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE, MR S.T. CHIU, AND THE RESEARCH ASSOCIATE OF THE INSTITUTE OF CHINESE STUDIES, MR TANG CHUNG.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
A MEDIA VISIT TO THE LUNG KWU TAN EXCAVATION SITE HAS BEEN ARRANGED ON THURSDAY (NOVERMBER 16) MORNING. AND MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WILL BE ABLE TO SEE THE UNEARTHED RELICS AND THE EXCAVATION.
A PRESS COACH TAKING THE MEDIA TO THE SITE WILL LEAVE MIDDLE ROAD. NEAR ITS JUNCTION WITH HANKOW ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI, AT 9.30 AM SHARP.
AN INFORMATION OFFICER WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.
YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN THE VISIT.
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ARTS FESTIVAL FOR EASTERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS ♦ ♦ ♦ * t
EASTERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS WILL BE TREATED TO A VARIETY OF CULTURAL PROGRAMMES DURING A TWO-WEEK ARTS FESTIVAL FROM SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) TO DECEMBER 3.
THE FESTIVAL WILL OPEN ON SUNDAY WITH A CARNIVAL IN VICTORIA PARK WHICH WILL INCLUDE A CHINESE PAINTING EXHIBITION. CALLIGRAPHY DEMONSTRATION, FLOWER ARRANGEMENT AND HANDICRAFT, AND A VARIETY SHOW.
OTHER FESTIVAL EVENTS WILL BE SCREENING OF A JAPANESE CARTOON FILM, ENTITLED "TOTORO”, TO BE SHOWN ON NOVEMBER 25 AT THE GOLDEN HUNG KAI THEATRE, AND A CONCERT BY THE 70-STRONG EASTERN DISTRICT CHILDREN’S CHOIR AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE ON NOVEMBER 26.
FOR CANTONESE OPERA LOVERS, THE WAN MAN OPERA TROUPE WILL GIVE A PERFORMANCE IN THE CHAI WAN COMMUNITY CENTRE ON DECEMBER 2.
/THE FESTIVAL........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
THE FESTIVAL WILL CLOSE WITH A CONCERT BY THE LIM KEH HAN PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA AT THE DR SEAKER CHAN MEMORIAL HALL ON DECEMBER 3.
EXCEPT FOR THE FILM SHOW, ADMISSION TO ALL EVENTS IS FREE. Tickets are now available at the eastern district office on the GROUND FLOOR, 880-886 KING’S ROAD.
THE EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS FESTIVAL IS BEING JOINTLY PRESENTED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE. DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL AND THE URBAN COUNCIL, WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD.
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MUSICAL TREAT FOR WONG TAI SIN RESIDENTS » ♦ » t ♦
MUSIC LOVERS IN WONG TAI SIN WILL HAVE A CHANCE TO ENJOY PERFORMANCES BY THE HONG KONG CHINESE ORCHESTRA ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 17).
THE ORCHESTRA WILL GIVE A CONCERT AT THE KO SHAN THEATRE IN । HUNG HOM IN SUPPORT OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, THE CONCERT, BEGINNING AT 8 PM. WILL (FEATURE POPULAR FOLK SONGS.
TICKETS AT $10, $20 AND $30 ARE ON SALE AT URBTIX OUTLETS. 1 1
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CONCERT BY THE HONG KONG CHINESE ORCHESTRA AT THE KO SHAN THEATRE IN HUNG HOM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 17). IT WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
- 14 -
DB TO DISCUSS DEVELOPMENT OF AIRPORT SITE t ♦ t ♦ *
SIX MEMBERS OF THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD WILL RAISE QUESTIONS AT THE BOARD’S MEETING ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 16) ON FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF THE KAI TAK AIRPORT SITE FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF THE NEW HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK
THE BOARD WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE PUBLIC HOUSING ALLOCAT IO? POLICY AND THE PROVISION OF CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY IN THE TO KWA WAN NORTH AREA.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD MEETING WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.15 PM ON THURSDA (NOVEMBER 16) IN THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, 141 KAU PU I LUNG ROAD, TO KWA WAN.
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DB COMMITTEE TO BE BRIEFED ON NEW EXHIBITION SERVICE CENTRE t * t * ♦ t t
THE INDUSTRY, COMMERCE AND AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD WILL BE BRIEFED ON THE TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL’S NEW EXHIBITION SERVICE CENTRE IN THE DISTRICT AT THE COMMITTEE’S MEETING ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 16).
A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE TDC WILL ATTEND THE MEETING TO BRIEF MEMBERS.
ALSO, THERE WILL BE A PRESENTATION ON THE USE OF COMPUTER IN.. COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY AT THE MEETING.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD’S INDUSTRY. COMMERCE AND AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE TO BE HELD N THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 16) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM, 13TII FLOOR, YUEN LONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 2 KIU LOK SQUARE, YUEN LONG.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM.
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/^5........
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 14. 1989
- 15 -
TEMPORARY SWITCH-OFF OF RTHK FM FREQUENCIES *»*♦»»
THE FM FREQUENCIES OF RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG WILL I I SWITCHED OFF BETWEEN 8.10 AM AND 11 AM ON THURSDAY AND FRIDAY
(NOVEMBER 16 AND 17) TO ENABLE THE POST OFFICE TO CONDUCT NEW RAD] )
FREQUENCIES TESTS. A SPOKESMAN FOR RTHK ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY).
"THE TESTS ARE TO FACILITATE THE INTRODUCTION OF NEW
WAVE-LENGTHS WHICH WILL COME INTO OPERATION AT MIDNIGHT ON SUNDAY
DECEMBER 3.
"THE CHANNELS TO BE AFFECTED ARE RADIO ONE (FM 92 AND 93). RADIO TWO (FM 94 AND 103). RADIO THREE (FM 101). RADIO FOUR (FM 91 AND 100) AND RADIO FIVE (FM 96 AND 105)." HE SAID.
TO MARK THE COMING INTO OPERATION OF THE NEW FM FREQUENCIES. RTHK WILL HOLD A "NEW WAVES NITE" WHICH WILL START AT 11.15 PM ON SATURDAY (DECEMBER 2) AND LAST UNTIL 1 AM ON SUNDAY (DECEMBER 3).
THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE. MR AUGUSTINE CHUI. WILL BE THE OFFICIATING GUEST OF THIS SPECIAL PROGRAMME TO BE BROADCAST ON RADIO 1 AND 2. DETAILS OF THE PROGRAMME WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER.
---O------
WINNERS IN ESSAY COMPETITION RECEIVE PRIZES
TWENTY-ONE WINNERS IN THE LOCAL ROUND OF THE ROYAI. COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY ESSAY COMPETITION 1988-89 RECEIVED THEIR PRIZE: FROM THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y.T. LT, TODAY (TUESDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY, MR LI SAID THE CONTEST -WAS ORGANISED ANNUALLY TO PROMOTE AMONG STUDENTS THE USE OF TH : ENGLISH LANGUAGE AS WELL AS A KNOWLEDGE OF THE COMMONWEALTH.
THIS YEAR, THE HONG KONG CONTEST ATTRACTED 110 ENTRIES FROM 11 SECONDARY SCHOOLS.
"IT IS ENCOURAGING TO SEE THAT ALL ENTRIES WERE OF A VERY HU I STANDARD AND THAT THE PARTICI PAT 1 NG STUDENTS DISPLAYED MUCH THOUGHT AND CARE IN PREPARING THEIR ESSAYS," MR LI SAID.
"HONG KONG STUDENTS COMPETE WITH SOME 4,000 SCHOOL CHILDREN FROM OVER 40 OTHER COMMONWEALTH TERRITORIES, MANY OF WHICH ARE PREDOMINANTLY ENGLISH-SPEAK I NG.
/"RECORDS SHOW .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
- 16 -
“RECORDS SHOW THAT OUR STUDENTS HAVE ALWAYS EXCELLED THEMSELVES IN THE LONDON-BASED INTERNATIONAL CONTEST AND THEIR NAMES HAVE ALWAYS APPEARED ON THE LISTS OF MERITORIOUS AWARDS."
AMONG THE 21 ENTRIES SELECTED TO COMPETE IN THE LONDON-B, R) CONTEST, HONG KONG STUDENTS WON TWO SPECIAL COMMENDATIONS, FOUR HI )H COMMENDATIONS AND TWO COMMENDATIONS.
MR LI SAID HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT LOCAL STUDENTS WOULD MAINTAIN
THE GOOD RECORD IN THE COMING YEARS.
WINNERS IN THE LOCAL COMPETITION WERE AMOUNTING TO £6,250 DONATED BY THE HONG KONG ^-COMMERCE.
AWARDED BOOK PRIZES
GENERAL CHAMBER OF
THE FIRST PRIZE OF $1,000 IN CLASS A FOR CANDIDATES AGED BETWEEN 16 AND 18 WENT TO JENNIFER TSANG CHIU-CHUN OF DIOCESAN GIRLS’ SCHOOL. SHE ALSO EARNED A ROUND TRIP TO KUALA LUMPUR AND $2,000 SPENDING MONEY DONATED BY THE ROYAL COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY IN HONG KONG.
THE SECOND AND THIRD PRIZES OF CLASS A WENT TO ALICE CHAN
SAU-WAI OF SACRED HEART CANOSS1AN COLLEGE AND ESTHER TSANG OF ST MARY’S CANOSSIAN COLLEGE.
WINNERS TN CLASS B FOR STUDENTS AGED BETWEEN '14 AND 15 WERE KAISER FUNG KAI-SZE OF QUEEN’S COLLEGE (FIRST PRIZE), AMY NG OF DIOCESAN GIRLS’ SCHOOL (SECOND PRIZE) AND AILEEN WONG TSANG-YU (THIRD PRIZE).
IN CLASS C FOR STUDENTS AGED BETWEEN 12 AND 13, REGGIE LT OF ST MARY’S CANOSSIAN COLLEGE WON THE FIRST PRIZE, WHILE CARMEN LAI OF MARYMOUNT SECONDARY SCHOOL AND LUNG EN-TING OF ST PAUL’S CO-EDUCATIONAL COLLEGE WERE AWARDED THE SECOND AND THIRD PRIZES RESPECTIVELY.
THE WINNERS IN CLASS D FOR STUDENTS AGED BELOW 12 WAS ALBY “-TSANG OF DIOCESAN PREPARATORY’ SCHOOL, FOLLOWED BY GENEVIEVE CHAN HOY-WON OF ST STEPHEN’S GIRLS’ PRIMARY SCHOOL AND MICHAEL CHAN OF DIOCESAN PREPARATORY SCHOOL.
THERE WERE ALSO CONSOLATION PRIZES TN EACH CLASS.
ALSO PRESENTING PRIZES TO WINNERS AT TODAY’S CEREMONY WERE THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF THE GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, MR HARRY GARLICK, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ROYAL COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY IN H> KONG, MRS OPHELIA CHEUNG-MACPHERSON.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
- 17 -
HAWKER AND RETAILER FINED FOR USING INACCURATE WEIGHING INSTRUMENTS »»*»»«
A VEGETABLE HAWKER AND A FRUIT RETAILER WERE FINED $1,000 AND $2,000 RESPECTIVELY AT THE WESTERN MAGISTRACY TODAY (TUESDAY) AFTER THEY PLEADED GUILTY TO THE CHARGES OF USING INACCURATE WEIGHING INSTRUMENTS.
THEY WERE PROSECUTED BY THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT UNDER THE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES ORDINANCE WHICH CAME INTO EFFECT ON JANUARY 1 THIS YEAR.
THE COURT HEARD THAT THE TWO CASES HAD BEEN BROUGHT TO THE ATTENTION OF THE DEPARTMENT AFTER COMPLAINTS FROM CUSTOMERS AGAINST THE DEFENDANTS WERE RECEIVED.
ON JUNE 21 THIS YEAR. OFFICERS OF THE TRADING STANDARDS INVESTIGATION BUREAU OF THE DEPARTMENT CARRIED OUT AN INSPECTION IN THE VEGETABLE HAWKER'S STALL AT CHUN YEUNG STREET MARKET, NORTH POINT.
AS A RESULT. A SET OF CHINESE STEELYARD WAS SEIZED AND REFERRED TO THE GOVERNMENT LABORATORY FOR EXAMINATION.
SUBSEQUENT EXAMINATION REVEALED THAT THE READING OF THE WEIGHING INSTRUMENT WAS 25 PER CENT IN EXCESS OF THE ACTUAL WEIGHT OF THE GOODS.
IN THE SECOND CASE, OFFICERS OF THE BUREAU INSPECTED THE FRUIT RETAILER’S SHOP ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF 6-9 CANAL ROAD EAST. HONG KONG ON JULY 14 THIS YEAR.
THE OFFICERS SEIZED FROM THE SHOP THREE SPRING BALANCES WHICH WERE SENT TO THE GOVERNMENT LABORATORY FOR EXAMINATION.
TEST RESULTS SHOWED THAT THE HIGHEST ERRORS IN THESE WEIGHING INSTRUMENTS RANGED FROM 18.9 PER CENT TO 96.7 PER CENT. IT MEANT THAT THE READING TN THE BALANCES WERE 18.9 PER CENT TO 96.7 PER CENT IN EXCESS OF THE ACTUAL WEIGHT.
THE CHIEF TRADE CONTROL OFFICER OF THE CONSUMER PROTECTION DIVISION OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT. MR ANDREW WONG. SAID THE DEPARTMENT HAD RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 72 COMPLAINTS ABOUT WEIGHTS AND MEASURES DURING THE INITIAL ID-MONTH IMPLEMENTATION PERIOD OF THE ORDINANCE.
"OF THESE COMPLAINTS. 39 ARE NOT SUBSTANTIATED, 30 ARE SUBSTANTIATED AND THREE OTHERS ARE STILL UNDER INVESTIGATION.
"AS FOR THE COMPLAINTS WHICH ARE SUBSTANTIATED. WRITTEN WARNINGS HAVE BEEN ISSUED TO 19 TRADERS. FOUR TRADERS HAVE BEEN PROSECUTED AND SEVEN OTHER CASES WERE EXPECTED TO BE BROUGHT TO THE COURT IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
/"THE WEIGHTS .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1U, 1989
- 18 -
"THE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES ORDINANCE CARRIES A MAXIMUM FINE OF $20,000 PLUS SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT," MR WONG SAID.
IF ANY PERSON WANTS TO MAKE ANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT MALPRACTICES IN RESPECT OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. HE MAY CONTACT EITHER THE TRADING STANDARDS INVESTIGATION BUREAU OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT (TEL. NO. 3-7146146) OR THE CONSUMER COUNCIL.
COMPLAINTS MAY ALSO BE MADE TO THE DUTY OFFICERS OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT ON 5-8523185 AFTER NORMAL OFFICE HOURS.
-----o-----
MORRISON HILL POST OFFICE RE-OPENS ON MONDAY
*****
RENOVATION WORK AT THE MORRISON HILL POST OFFICE IN WAN CHAI HAS COMPLETED AND THE OFFICE WILL BE RE-OPENED FOR BUSINESS ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20), THE POST OFFICE ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY).
THE MORRISON HILL POST OFFICE IS LOCATED AT 28 01 KWAN ROAD.
AI.L POSTAL FACILITIES PREVIOUSLY OFFERED AT THE OFFICE WILL RESUME NORMAL OPERATION, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE POST OFFICE SAID.
-------o----------
HK JOINS WORLD STAMP EXPO ’89
*****
THE POST OFFICE WILL PARTICIPATE IN THE WORLD STAMP EXPO '89 IN WASHINGTON, USA.
TO MARK THE OCCASION, COMMEMORATIVE COVERS AFFIXED WITH A SET OF "HONG KONG PEOPLE" SPECIAL STAMPS AND CANCELLED WITH A SPECIAL POSTMARK WILL BE PUT ON SALE AT $11.50 EACH FROM FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 17) AT THE FOLLOWING PHILATELIC OFFICES:
GENERAL POST OFFICE, BEACONSFIELD HOUSE POST OFFICE, PEAK POST OFFICE, TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICE, GRANVILLE ROAD POST OFFICE, AIRPORT POST OFFICE, AND SHA TIN CENTRAL POST OFFICE.
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/19........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14. 1989
19
MUSIC OFFICE RECRUITS PROFESSIONAL STAFF
THE MUSIC OFFICE IS RECRUITING FULL-TIME PROFESSIONAL STAFF IN GEHU/BASS GEHU AND MUSIC PROMOTION.
QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL ENTER AS AN ASSISTANT MUSIC OFFICER II WITH A PAY SCALE BETWEEN $7,815 AND $12,725 PER MONTH.
APPLICANTS FOR THE AMO II (GEHU/BASS GEHU) POST SHOULD HAVE COMPLETED MUSICAL TRAINING IN AN ACCEPTABLE INSTITUTION. CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC OR HAVE AT LEAST FIVE YEARS’ RELEVANT EXPERIENCE IN AN ACCEPTABLE PROFESSIONAL PERFORMING GROUP OR ACADEMY. DIPLOMA AND DEGREE HOLDERS MUST BE MAJOR IN GEHU/BASS GEHU.
APPLICANTS FOR THE AMO II (MUSIC PROMOTION) POST SHOULD BE GRADUATES OF THE HONG KONG CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC, THE ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS OR THE HONG KONG BAPTIST COLLEGE: OR HAVE A DEGREE IN MUSIC FROM A RECOGNISED UNIVERSITY; OR POSSESS LRSM, LRAM, LTCL, ARCM, LGSM, DRSAM, GRSM, GGSM. GRNCM OR EQUIVALENT.
APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE MADE ON G.F. 340 AND FORWARDED TO THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER (PERSONNEL AND GENERAL) OF THE MUSIC OFFICE, RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH. 25TH FLOOR. WANCHAI TOWER I. 12 HARBOUR ROAD. WAN CHAI NOT LATER THAN NOVEMBER 20.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL. 5-8235340.
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LAST CALL FOR ENTRIES TO ANTI-DRUG SYMBOL DESIGN CONTEST
RESIDENTS WISHING TO ENTER THE ANTI-DRUG SYMBOL DESIGN COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS (ACAN) ARE TODAY (TUESDAY) REMINDED TO SEND IN THEIR DESIGNS BY TOMORROW (NOVEMBER 15).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE NARCOTICS DIVISION OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT SAID SO FAR MORI. THAN 300 ENTRIES HAD BEEN RECEIVED.
THE CONTEST, ORGANISED WITH THE SUPPORT AND CONTRIBUTION OF $100,000 FROM THE ORIENTAL DAILY NEWS, WAS HELD TO LOOK FOR AN ANTI-DRUG SYMBOL TO COMMEMORATE ACAN*S SILVER JUBILEE NEXT YEAR.
"SUBJECT TO THE FINAL DECISION OF THE ORGANISERS, THE WINNING SYMBOL WILL BE USED ON VARIOUS SOUVENIR ITEMS FOR. DISTRIBUTION TO THE PUBLIC NEXT YEAR." THF SPOKESMAN SAID.
/ALL ENTRIES ........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
20
ALL ENTRIES MUST BE AN ORIGINAL DESIGN BY THE PARTICIPANTS AND SHOULD NOT BE AN IMITATION OF ANY REGISTERED SYMBOLS.
THE DESIGNS (25 CM BY 25 CM) SHOULD BE MADE IN ONE OR TWO COLOURS WITH A WHITE BACKGROUND ON A DRAWING PAPER.
IN ADDITION TO A TROPHY, THE TOP THREE WINNERS OF THE CONTEST WILL EACH BE AWARDED CASH COUPONS OF $5,000, $3,000 AND $2,000 RESPECTIVELY.
THE ENTRIES SHOULD BE SUBMITTED EITHER IN PERSON OR BY POST TO THE NARCOTICS DIVISION AT 23RD FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, CENTRAL, NOT LATER THAN TOMORROW. RESULTS OF THE COMPETITION WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON NOVEMBER 30.
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AUCTION OF SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD ANOTHER AUCTION OF SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBERS ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 18) AT THE CITY HALL RECITAL HALL. THE AUCTION WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM.
A TOTAL OF 40 SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS WILL RE AVAILABLE FOR BIDDING.
THEY ARE:
EB8882 EC8 ED 133 EC2168
ED986 ED688 EE3233 EC881
HK1931 EE3228 ED983 EE14
CY99 ED932 HK72 EE7773
ED386 5201 ED8898 EE1283
EC8836 ED286 489 EB6 7 8
ED5 ED3833 EC866 ED2398
EE229 ED899 BG1313 ED890
EE6388 E1)2628 EE201 EE3306
EC 1 1 8 EB3 CC2223 EC1622
SUCCESSFUL RIDDING. BIDDERS MUST PAY BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE
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.
/THE CERTIFICATE .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1989
- 21
THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION MUST BE PRODUCED IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE AUCTION IF THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK IS TO BE (REGISTERED UNDER THE NAME OF A BODY CORPORATE.
I
PROCEEDS OF THE AUCTION WILL AS USUAL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND.
THE COMING AUCTION WILL BE THE 144TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT FOR MOVEMENT OF PLANE » * ♦ * ♦ *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL RE IMPLEMENTED ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 16) FOR TRANSPORTING A DC-3 PLANE FROM THE TSIM SHA TSUI EAST PROMENADE TO THE HONG KONG SCIENCE MUSEUM VIA SALISBURY ROAD WESTBOUND, CHATHAM ROAD SOUTH (NORTHBOUND) AND GRANVILLE ROAD.
THE WESTBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF SALISBURY ROAD BETWEEN THE U-TURN SLIP ROAD ADJACENT TO THE INTERNATIONAL MAIL CENTRE AND ITS JUNCTION WITH CHATHAM ROAD SOUTH WILL BE CLOSED BETWEEN 4 AM AND 6 AM.
TRAFFIC ON SALISBURY ROAD WESTBOUND WILL BE DIVERTED TO HONG CHONG ROAD NORTHBOUND VIA THE U-TURN SLIP ROAD AND ALL SOUTHBOUND TRAFFIC IN MODY LANE WILL BE DIVERTED TO SALISBURY ROAD EASTBOUND VIA AN ENFORCED LEFT TURN.
THE SECTION OF GRANVILLE ROAD BETWEEN SCIENCE MUSEUM ROAD AND THE SLIP ROAD LEADING TO THE GRANVILLE SQUARE WILL BE CLOSED FROM 6 AM TO 7 AM.
THE FOLLOWING TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN CHATHAM ROAD SOUTH ONCE THE DC-3, WHICH WILL BE TOWED BY A TRACTOR, ENTERS THIS SECTION OF THE ROAD:
THE LEFT TURN FROM SALISBURY ROAD SOUTH (NORTHBOUND) WILL BE BANNED AND CHATHAM ROAD SOUTH (NORTHBOUND) WILL BE PLANE ENTERS GRANVILLE ROAD.
EASTBOUND ONTO CHATHAM ROAD ACCESS TO THIS SECTION OF PROHIBITED UNTIL AFTER THE
ALL TRAFFIC APPROACHING THIS SECTION OF CHATHAM ROAD SOUTH (NORTHBOUND) WILL BE TEMPORARILY STOPPED UNTIL AFTER THE PLANE HAS PASSED THROUGH TUI PARTICULAR ROAD JUNCTIONS. THE ROAD WILL EE RI -OPENED AS SOON AS PRACTICABLE.
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES . • • • BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL -MEETING :
AIM IS FURTHER .IMPROVEMENT OF EFFICIENCY, EFFECTIVENESS .. 1
. • • • *
STAMP DUTY. AMENDMENT BILL INTRODUCED.......................... 2
ACTING AG REPLIES TO CRITICISM OF TRUSTS BILL.................. 5
TIME FOR BUSINESS COMMUNITY TO STUDY NEW LAW .................. 5
STEP TOWARDS. BETTER PROTECTION FOR CONSUMERS ................. 7
RECOGNITION.OF TRUSTS BILL ’HAS DEFECTS’ ...................... 8
RECORD NUMBER OF VISITORS TO OCEAN PARK ....................... 9
PERIOD FOR .MAKING AMENDMENTS EXTENDED ....................... 10
FUNDING UNLIKELY FOR SOME YEARS".............................. 11
GOOD CONDUCT EXPECTED OF UK IMMIGRATION STAFF ................ 11
NO EVIDENCE ,QF .FALL-IN-OVERALL AIR POLLUTION ............... 12
FURTHER WORKING PARTY ON CHINESE LANGUAGE IN COURTS .......... 1J
POLICE UPHOLD PRINCIPLE OF FREE PRESS ........................ 15
TWO RAILWAY CORPORATIONS BEING CLOSELY MONITORED ............. 16
UNLEADED PETROL EXPECTED IN 12 - 15 MONTHS ................... 17
DEDICATED LINE NOT MANDATORY FOR FAX MACHINE.................. 18
TRANSPORT SERVICES FOR TIN SHUT WAI RESIDENTS................. 18
VIETNAMESE ACCOUNT FOR SMALL PERCENTAGE OF HOSPITAL USE .. 19
SPECIAL JOB REGISTER TO ASSIST IVORY WORKERS ................. 20
FOUR BILLS PASSED............................................. 21
/CIVIL SERVICE .......
CIVIL SERVICE PROVIDES CHALLENGING OPPORTUNITIES................ 22
SWD EXPERIMENTS OCCASIONAL CHILD CARE PROJECT................... 23
'GOVT ENDORSES RECOMMENDATIONS ON SIXTH FORM POLICY............. 24
HK SHOULD HAVE ROLE IN REGIONAL ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION......... 26
___.......■
HK HAS PROPOSED GATT ANTI-DUMPING CODE........... .I.. .7....... 28
(
PAC HEARING NEXT WEEK......................................... 29
DECREASE IN.AVERAGE TAR YIELD OF CIGARETTES .................... 29
11,000 VISIT .EXHIBITION ON EMPLOYMENT OF THE DISABLED........ JO
LAND DEVELOPMENT -CORPORATION PROJECTS ON DB AGENDA............. JO
DISTRICT FESTIVAL CIVIC EDUCATION EXHIBITION ................... J1
FOUR GOVERNMENT. LAND LOTS- TO LET BY TENDER ................... J2
TEMPORARY RE-ROUTEING OF'DOUGLAS STREET IN CENTRAL ............. JJ
TEMPORARY URBAN CLEARWAY IN WATER STREET IN WESTERN .......... JJ
i
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS -AT AIRPORT ............................... 35
URBAN CLEARWAY -IN SHAM SHUI PO................................. 3^
LANE CLOSURE ON TUEN- MUN ROAD................................ 34
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
1
AIM IS FURTHER IMPROVEMENT OF EFFICIENCY, EFFECTIVENESS t » t t t t *
THE AMENDMENTS PROPOSED IN THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL SEEK TO FURTHER IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY. THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WHEN HE MOVED THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL.
HIGHLIGHTING THE SALIENT PROPOSALS, SIR PIERS EXPLAINED THAT CLAUSE 3 OF THE BILL REQUIRED A MEMBER OF THE SERVICE TO CARRY HIS WARRANT CARD AT ALL TIMES, SO THAT HE WAS ALWAYS ABLE TO ESTABLISH HIS IDENTITY AND PROVE HIS AUTHORITY IN EXERCISING HIS LAWFUL POWERS OR DUTIES.
’’THIS IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE THE EXISTING SECTION 17 PROVIDES THAT A MEMBER WHO IS OFF DUTY SHALL BE DEEMED TO BE ON DUTY WHEREVER HE ENCOUNTERS CIRCUMSTANCES WHICH WOULD REQUIRE HIS INVOLVEMENT IN HIS OFFICIAL CAPACITY,” HE SAID.
SIR PIERS SAID CLAUSE 7 INTRODUCED A PROPOSED NEW SECTION 17 BA, WHICH PROVIDED MEMBERS OF THE SERVICE WITH GENERAL POWERS OF SEARCH AND EXAMINATION WITHOUT A WARRANT.
THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE ENFORCED 19 ORDINANCES WHICH HAD THEIR OWN SEARCH AND SEIZURE PROVISIONS.
’’DURING ROUTINE CHECKS, MEMBERS OF THE SERVICE ARE NOT NORMALLY EXERCISING POWERS UNDER ANY PARTICULAR ORDINANCE.
”AS A RESULT, AN OFFENDER CAUGHT AT ONE OF THE CHECKPOINTS MIGHT HAVE A LEGAL DEFENCE TO ANY CHARGE SUBSEQUENTLY BROUGHT.
"TO ENSURE THAT THIS NEW SEARCH POWER IS LIMITED IN SCOPE, IT IS INTENDED THAT THIS POWER MAY BE EXERCISED ONLY AT ENTRY OR EXIT POINTS, OR WHERE CARGO IS STORED PRIOR TO COLLECTION,” HE SAID.
SIR PIERS ADDED THAT THE PROPOSED NEW SECTION 17BB GAVE OFFICERS NOT BELOW THE RANK OF INSPECTOR THE POWER TO REQUEST PRODUCTION OF A TRAVEL DOCUMENT.
’’THIS WILL ALLOW MORE SENIOR MEMBERS OF THE SERVICE TO ASCERTAIN A TRAVELLER’S STATUS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ENFORCING ANY STATUTORY POWERS,” HE SAID.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
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WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 15, 1989
- 2 -
STAMP DUTY AMENDMENT BILL INTRODUCED *****
THE STAMP DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989, WHICH SEEKS TO GRANT STAMP DUTY RELIEF FOR TRANSACTIONS WHICH INVOLVE THE BORROWING AND LENDING OF HONG KONG STOCK FOR THE PURPOSE OF SETTLING A LEGITIMATE SALE, WAS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS, SAID THAT UNDER EXISTING LEGISLATION ANY PERSON WHO BORROWED OR LENT STOCK WAS REQUIRED TO PAY STAMP DUTY AT THE RATE OF 0.3 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF THE STOCK FOR EACH TRANSACTION.
"THE TOTAL STAMP DUTY PAYABLE FOR EACH COMPLETED STOCK BORROWING TRANSACTION, INCLUDING THE RETURN OF THE STOCK TO THE BORROWER, IS THEREFORE 1.2 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF THE STOCK.
"THIS IS THE SAME DUTY AS THAT PAYABLE IN RELATION TO TWO OUT AND OUT TRANSFERS OF STOCK,” SIR PIERS SAID.
EXPLAINING THE PURPOSE OF THE BILL, SIR PIERS SAID THE SECURITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE POINTED OUT IN MAY LAST YEAR THAT STOCK BORROWING WAS A WELL-TRIED AND INTERNATIONALLY USED METHOD TO RESOLVE TEMPORARY SETTLEMENT PROBLEMS.
"THE COMMITTEE WENT ON TO RECOMMEND A CONCESSION ON STAMP DUTY FOR TRANSACTIONS WHICH WERE USED AS A MEANS OF EXPEDITING SETTLEMENT," HE SAID.
THE RECOMMENDATION WAS ACCEPTED BY THE ADMINISTRATION, SIR PIERS, SAID NOTING ALSO THAT HE HAD INDICATED IN HIS BUDGET SPEECH EARLIER THIS YEAR THAT HE WOULD INTROUDCE A BILL PROVIDING FOR THE EXEMPTION FROM STAMP DUTY OF SPECIFIC STOCK BORROWING AND LENDING TRANSACTIONS.
HE SAID THAT SINCE STOCK BORROWING EXPOSED THE LENDER TO RISK AND IMPRUDENT STOCK LENDING UNDERMINED MARKET INTEGRITY, IT WAS NECESSARY FOR SUCH TRANSACTIONS TO BE PROPERLY CONTROLLED.
"IT IS INTENDED THAT THE STATUS OF 'APPROVED BORROWER’ AS DEFINED FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE CONCESSION SHOULD IN GENERAL BE RESTRICTED TO MEMBERS OF THE STOCK EXCHANGE, AND THAT AS APPROVED BORROWERS THEY WOULD BE REQUIRED TO KEEP RECORDS AND FURNISH RETURNS RELATING TO THEIR STOCK BORROWING ACTIVITIES." SIR PIERS SAID.
THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION AND THE STOCK EXCHANGE WERE CURRENTLY DISCUSSING THE ESSENTIAL FEATURES OF A PROPER REGULATORY SYSTEM FOR STOCK BORROWING ACTIVITIES.
"IF THIS BILL IS PASSED ITS PROVISIONS WILL NOT BE BROUGHT INTO OPERATION UNTIL A SYSTEM OF CONTROL HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED," HE SAID .
/TURNING TO
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
TURNING TO THE MAIN PROVISIONS OF THE BILL, SIR PIERS SAID CLAUSE 3 WHICH SOUGHT TO AMEND SECTION 19 OF THE PRINCIPAL ORDINANCE, PROVIDED FOR THE EXEMPTION OF STOCK BORROWING AND STOCK RETURN FROM STAMP DUTY AND SET FORTH THE CONTROLS AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK NECESSARY TO MAKE THE SYSTEM WORK.
CLAUSE 4 SOUGHT TO ADD A NEW SECTION 58A, WHICH WOULD AFFORD ANY PERSON, AGAINST WHOM THE COLLECTOR OF STAMP REVENUE INTENDED TO INVOKE CIVIL SANCTIONS, AN OPPORTUNITY OF GIVING AN EXPLANATION TO THE COLLECTOR AS TO WHY SUCH ACTION SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID THE STOCK EXCHANGE OF HONG KONG, THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION AND THE JOINT LIAISON COMMITTEE ON TAXATION HAD BEEN CONSULTED, AND HAD ENDORSED THE PROPOSALS.
"THE FULL YEAR COST TO THE REVENUE IN 1990-91 OF IMPLEMENTING THESE PROPOSALS HAS BEEN ESTIMATED TO BE SOME S40 MILLION," HE ADDED.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
------o-------
ACTING AG REPLIES TO CRITICISM OF TRUSTS BILL t » » * «
THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON FRANK STOCK, GAVE A POINT-BY-POINT REPLY IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) TO CRITICISMS MADE BY THE HON PETER H.Y. WONG AGAINST THE RECOGNITION OF TRUSTS BILL 1989.
MR STOCK SAID IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE BILL THAT IT HAD FIRST BEEN CONTENDED THAT IN A COMMON LAW JURISDICTION WITH RULES OF EQUITY, THERE WAS NO NEED FOR THE HAGUE CONVENTION. IT WAS FURTHER CONTENDED THAT IN JURISDICTIONS WITHOUT COURTS OF EQUITY, THE CONVENTION WOULD NOT ASSIST.
"I THINK IT MIGHT BE HELPFUL IF I. WERE TO REMIND MEMBERS OF THE PURPOSE OF THE CONVENTION AND OF THIS BILL BY QUOTING THE LORD CHANCELLOR OF GREAT BRITAIN WHEN HE MOVED IN THE HOUSE OF LORDS THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL FOR THE RECOGNITION OF TRUSTS ACT 1987, WHICH IS LARGELY IN THE SAME TERMS AS THE BILL NOW BEFORE US," HE SAID.
HE QUOTED:
"’THE PURPOSE OF THE CONVENTION IS TO ESTABLISH COMMON PRINCIPLES BETWEEN STATES ON THE LAW OF TRUSTS AND TO DEAL WITH THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES CONCERNING THEIR RECOGNITION........ TRUSTS ARE NOT, IN GENERAL, A CONCEPT FAMILIAR TO CIVIL LAW COUNTRIES. THEIR SYSTEMS OF LAW ARE NOT DESIGNED TO ACCEPT THAT ONE INDIVIDUAL MAY HOLD ASSETS ON BEHALF OF ANOTHER. TO GIVE AN EXTREME EXAMPLE, AT PRESENT IF THERE ARE TRUST ASSETS IN A FOREIGN CIVIL LAW JURISDICTION, AND THE TRUSTEE INCURS DEBTS IN HIS PERSONAL CAPACITY, THE ASSETS OF THE TRUST ARE LIABLE TO BE SEIZED TO MEET THE DEBTS INCURRED BY THE TRUSTEE.
/"IT WAS .«......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, "’989
"’IT WAS TO AVOID THIS AND OTHER DIFFICULTIES THAT THE UNITED KINGDOM PROMOTED THE NEGOTIATION BY THE HAGUE CONFERENCE OF A CONVENTION WHICH. IN EFFECT, ALLOWS US TO EXPORT TO CIVIL LAW COUNTRIES, FIRST THE CONCEPT OF A TRUST; SECONDLY, OUR RULES LAYING DOWN THE LAW WHICH GOVERNS SUCH A TRUST, AND THIRDLY, THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH IT SHOULD BE RECOGNISED. THE CONVENTION WILL THUS PRINCIPALLY BE Ob' BENEFIT TO THE COMMON LAW COUNTRIES SUCH AS ENGLAND AND WALES.'"
OBVIOUSLY, FOR ENGLAND AND WALES WE SUBSTITUTED FOR THE PRESENT PURPOSES HONG KONG, MR STOCK SAID.
"PERHAPS WE MIGHT PAUSE TO REFLECT THAT IF WE HAVE IT AS WRONG AS IS SUGGESTED. BY REFERENCE TO THE SPEECH OF THE LORD CHANCELLOR OF THE DAY, WE ARE IN ILLUSTRIOUS COMPANY INDEED," HE NOTED.
MR STOCK SAID THIS EXPLAINED THE UTILITY OF THE CONVENTION FOR COMMON LAW COUNTRIES. FURTHERMORE, THE COURTS OF THOSE CIVIL LAW COUNTRIES WITHOUT COURTS OF EQUITY WHO WERE PARTIES TO THE CONVENTION WOULD BY VIRTUE OF THE CONVENTION RECOGNISE AND ENFORCE TRUSTS TO WHICH THE CONVENTION APPLIED, HE SAID.
IT HAD BEEN SAID THAT A TRUST WAS INAPPROPRIATELY DEFINED IN THE CONVENTION AND THE EXAMPLE WAS GIVEN OF A CUSTOMER ENTRUSTING HIS SUITS TO A DRY CLEARNER.
"BUT IN SO DOING, TITLE TO THE SUITS DOES NOT STAND IN THE NAME OF THE DRY CLEANER AND THE RELATIONSHIP DOES NOT THEREFORE HAVE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A TRUST UNDER ARTICLE 2 OF THE CONVENTION," MR STOCK SAID.
THE NEXT CRITICISM WAS THAT THE EXISTING TRUST LAW WAS REPLACED BY THE CONVENTION.
"I GATHER THAT THIS ARGUMENT PROCEEDS UPON THE PREMISE THAT THE ENACTMENT OF THE RILL WILL SIGNIFICANTLY AFFECT SUBSTANTIVE DOMESTIC HONG KONG LAW BY PROVIDING A COMPREHENSIVE CODIFICATION OF THE LAW OF TRUSTS WHICH WILL REPLACE ALL EXISTING TRUST LAW." MR STOCK SAID.
"BUT THAT ARGUMENT IGNORES THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER II OF THE CONVENTION TO WHICH THIS BILL GIVES THE FORCE OF LAW.
"WHILST IT COULD BE ARGUED THAT ARTICLE I OF THE CONVENTION IS AMBIGUOUS IF READ IN ISOLATION, CHAPTER II OF THE CONVENTION MAKES IT QUITE CLEAR THAT THE PHRASE ’THE LAW APPLICABLE TO TRUSTS’ MEANS THE LAW BY WHICH THE TRUST IS GOVERNED, AND THAT THE CONVENTION DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE AN EXHAUSTIVE STATMENT OF THE LAW ITSELF.
"THE CONVENTION SPECIFIES UNDER ARTICLE 6 THAT A TRUST SHALL BE GOVERNED BY THE LAW CHOSEN BY THE SETTLOR SO THAT. FOR EXAMPLE, IF A SETTLOR EXPRESSES A TRUST TO BE GOVERNED BY ENGLISH LAW THEN IN ANY CONVENTION COUNTRY, THE APPLICABLE LAW OF THAT TRUST WILL BE ENGLISH LAW.
/IN THE ......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1?» 19®9
- 5 -
IN THE CRITICISMS WHICH HAD BEEN LEVELLED THERE WAS THEN REFERENCE TO A SUGGESTED CIRCULARITY.
"I GATHER THAT THE ARGUMENT IS THAT WHETHER THE CONVENTION APPLIES DEPENDS UPON IDENTIFICATION OF THE PROPER LAW. BUT THAT THE PROPER LAW CANNOT BE DETERMINED UNTIL IT HAS BEEN ASCERTAINED WHETHER THE CONVENTION APPLIES.
"THE SCHEME OF THE CONVENTION IS FIRST TO IDENTIFY THE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF A TRUST. IF THESE PREVAIL. THE CONVENTION APPLIES. ONCE THE CONVENTION APPLIES, THE RULES FOR DETERMINING THE PROPER LAW ARE THOSE SET OUT." HE SAID.
MR STOCK SAID THE CONVENTION HAD BEEN CONSIDERED BY THE BAR ASSOCIATION, THE LAW SOCIETY, THE HONGKONG BANK TRUSTEE, AND ALL WERE IN FAVOUR OF ITS EXTENSION TO HONG KONG. NONE OF THESE BODIES HAD VOICED THE CONCERNS EXPRESSED TODAY.
HE ADDED: "I SHOULD ALSO REPEAT THAT THE BILL IS LARGELY IN THE SAME TERMS AS ENGLAND'S RECOGNITION OF TRUSTS ACT 1987.
"AGAIN WHEN MOVING IN THE HOUSE OF LORDS THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL FOR THIS ACT. THE LORD CHANCELLOR OF THE DAY SAID THIS: 'THE CONVENTION WILL THUS PRINCIPALLY BE OF BENEFIT TO COMMON LAW COUNTRIES SUCH AS ENGLAND AND WALES’, AND A LITTLE FURTHER ON: 'THE BILL WILL INVOLVE LITTLE CHANGE TO THE SUBSTANCE OF EXISTING LAW IN THE UNITED KINGDOM. IT WILL HOWEVER SERVE TO CLARIFY A NUMBER OF ISSUES WHERE OUR EXISTING LAW HAS NOT YET BEEN FULLY DEVELOPED’."
-------o----------
TIME FOR BUSINESS COMMUNITY TO STUDY NEW LAW * » » » »
THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL. THE HON FRANK STOCK, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THE CONTROL OF EXEMPTION CLAUSES BILL 1989 WOULD NOT, IF ENACTED. COME INTO EFFECT UNTIL DECEMBER 1 NEXT YEAR.
SPEAKING IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE BILL. MR STOCK SAID THIS WOULD ALLOW TIME FOR THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY TO STUDY THE LEGISLATION AND TO AMEND THE CONTRACTUAL DOCUMENTS THEY USED IN THEIR DEALINGS.
HE SAID HE APPRECIATED THE DESIRE TO ENSURE THAT CONSUMERS WERE GIVEN SUFFICIENT PROTECTION AND HE UNDERSTOOD THE CONCERNS EXPRESSED BY DR THE HON HENRIETTA IP IN RELATION TO THE ABSENCE OF A DEFINITION OF THE TERM "SECURITIES".
"HOWEVER. CLOSE CONSIDERATION OF THE MERITS OF DEFINING ’SECURITIES’ IN THE BILL REVEALED POTENTIAL DIFFICULTIES IN ATTEMPTING TO DO SO.
/"ONE PROBLEM .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
"ONE PROBLEM WAS THAT AN EXHAUSTIVE DEFINITION WOULD BE DIFFICULT SINCE BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS CONTINUALLY CREATE NEW TYPES OF SECURITIES DOCUMENTS.
"ANOTHER WAS THAT A RESTRICTIVE DEFINITION MIGHT UNDERMINE CERTAIN BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS." MR STOCK SAID.
HE SAID THE ADMINISTRATION CONCLUDED THAT THERE WAS MERIT IN LEAVING THE BILL AS IT WAS. THUS GIVING THE TERM "SECURITIES" ITS EVERYDAY MEANING.
THIS APPROACH WOULD ALSO ALLOW THE COURTS TO FOLLOW UNITED KINGDOM JUDICIAL PRECEDENTS.
"FURTHERMORE. WE ARE NOT AWARE OF ANY DIFFICULTIES THAT HAVE ARISEN IN THE UNITED KINGDOM FROM THE ABSENCE OF A DEFINITION IN THE UNFAIR CONTRACT TERMS ACT 1977 OF THE TERM 'SECURITIES’.
"WE SHALL. OF COURSE. KEEP THE MATTER UNDER REVIEW AND SHOULD ANY PROBLEMS ARISE ONCE THE ORDINANCE HAS BEEN ENACTED AND BROUGHT INTO EFFECT. WE WILL BE PREPARED TO RECONSIDER THE POSITION." HE SAID.
MR STOCK SAID HE ACKNOWLEDGED ALSO DR IP’S CONCERN OVER THE EXCLUSION OF INSURANCE CONTRACTS FROM THE AMBIT OF THE BILL.
"THE ADMINISTRATION CONSIDERS THAT EFFECTIVE SELF-REGULATION IS A BETTER SOLUTION THAN LEGISLATION TO THE PECULIAR PROBLEMS OF INSURANCE CONTRACT LAW.
"IT IS NOTEWORTHY THAT THE LEGISLATIVE ROUTE HAS NOT BEEN FOLLOWED TN THE UNITED KINGDOM. INSTEAD. A SELF-REGULATORY FRAMEWORK HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED AND HAS WORKED WELL.
"I AM GLAD TO SAY THAT COMMENDABLE EFFORTS HAVE BEEN MADE BY THE LOCAL INSURANCE INDUSTRY TO DEVELOP PROPOSALS FOR SELF-REGULATION AND AN INSURANCE CLAIMS COMPLAINTS BOARD IS EXPECTED TO BE ESTABLISHED SOON.
"THE ADMINISTRATION IS CLOSELY MONITORING DEVELOPMENTS TO ENSURE THAT THE INTERESTS OF POLICY HOLDERS ARE PROTECTED. I CAN CONFIRM THAT IF SELF-REGULATION FAILS TO ACHIEVE ITS OBJECTIVE. THE ADMINISTRATION WILL CONSIDER MAKING LEGISLATIVE CHANGES TO CONTROL INSURANCE MATTERS." HE SAID.
0 --------
/7........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 15, 1989
- 7 -
STEP TOWARDS BETTER PROTECTION FOR CONSUMERS ******
THE CONTROL OF EXEMPTION CLAUSES BILL 1989 IS A PIECE OF LEGISLATION WHICH WII?L ENABLE HONG KONG TO MOVE ONE STEP FORWARD TO PROVIDE BETTER PROTECTION IN LAW TO CONSUMERS. DR THE HON HENRIETTA IP SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING TN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE BILL. DR IP SAID THE LEGISLATION WAS TECHNICAL AND COMPLEX, AND SHOULD BE GIVEN THE WIDEST PUBLICITY BY THE ADMINISTRATION WHEN IMPLEMENTED.
AS THE CONVENER OF THE LEGCO AD HOC GROUP WHICH STUDIED THE BILL. DR IP SAID THE AD HOC GROUP HAD MADE REFERENCE TO RELEVANT LEGISLATION IN THE UNITED KINGDOM WHEN SCRUTINISING THE BILL, AND ALSO CONSIDERED SUBMISSIONS TO THE ADMINISTRATION FROM INTERESTED ORGANISATIONS.
ONE OF THE KEY ISSUES CONSIDERED BY THE AD HOC GROUP WAS THE PROTECTION AFFORDED TO CONSUMERS UNDER THE PROVISIONS IN THE ARBITRATION CLAUSES.
DR IP SAID THE PROVISIONS WERE NOT CLEAR AND ACCORDED LESS PROTECTION TO THE CONSUMER THAN THE UK CONSUMER ARBITRATION AGREEMENTS ACT 1988.
THE BILL PROPOSED THAT PROTECTION WOULD BE PROVIDED TO A CONSUMER IN THAT HE WAS NOT BOUND BY A CONTRACT TERM REQUIRING HIM TO SUBMIT A DIFFERENCE TO ARBITRATION UNLESS HE HAD GIVEN WRITTEN CONSENT "AFTER THE DIFFERENCES HAVE ARISEN".
TN COMPARISON. THE UK ACT ONLY DEPRIVED THE CONSUMER OF PROTECTION IF HE CONSENTED IN WRITING TO THE ENFORCEMENT OF THE ARBITRATION CLAUSE "AFTER THE DIFFERENCES TN QUESTION HAVE ARISEN".
DR IP SAID THE AD HOC GROUP HAD SUGGESTED THAT THE SHOULD BE AMENDED ACCORDINGLY ALONG THE LINES OF THE UK ACT.
CLAUSE
SHE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE AD HOC GROUP WAS PARTICULARLY CONCERNED XBOUT THE PROPOSED EXCLUSION OF INSURANCE CONTRACTS FROM THE PROVISIONS AS INSURANCE CONTRACTS HAD ALL ALONG BEEN AN AREA OF CONSIDERABLE DISPUTE BETWEEN INSURERS AND THE INSURED.
SHE SAID THAT THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION WAS OF THE VIEW THAT LEGISLATIVE CONTROL SHOULD BE APPLIED TO INSURANCE CONTRACTS.
HOWEVER. THE ADMINISTRATION SUGGESTED THAT AN EFFECTIVE SELF-REGULATION SYSTEM WOULD BE A BETTER SOLUTION TO THE INSURANCE CONTRACT LAW THAN LEGISLATION. AND THAT THE PROPOSED PACKAGE FOR SELF-REGULATION OF THE INDUSTRY WOULD BE FINALISED FOR IMPLEMENTATION IN MID-1990.
/ALTHOUGH THE .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
- 8 -
ALTHOUGH THE AD HOC GROUP WAS IN FAVOUR OF THE INCLUSION THE INSURANCE CONTRACTS. IT AGREED TO GIVE THE INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITY TO IMPLEMENT SELF-REGULATION UNDER THE MONITORING OF INSURANCE AUTHORITY. FOR ITS EFFECTIVENESS. DR IP SAID.
OF
AN
THE
DR IP ALSO SAID THE AD HOC GROUP HAD CONSIDERED WHETHER THE TERM “SECURITIES” UNDER SCHEDULE I SHOULD BE DEFINED. WITH A VIEW TO LIMITING EXCEPTIONS AND THEREBY PROVIDING GREATER PROTECTION TO CONSUMERS.
AFTER DISCUSSION WITH THE ADMINISTRATION. THE AD HOC GROUP HAD AGREED THAT IT WAS DIFFICULT TO CONTEMPLATE A SATISFACTORY DEFINITION.
-----0-----
RECOGNITION OF TRUSTS BILL ’HAS DEFECTS’
*****
THERE WERE MANY DEFECTS IN THE PROPOSED RECOGNITION OF TRUSTS BILL 1989 AND IT WAS LIKELY TO CAUSE LOSS AND EXPENSE. THE HON PETER H.Y. WONG TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING IN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE BILL. MR WONG SAID THAT A TRUST SHOULD BE AN EQUITABLE OBLIGATION ENFORCEABLE ONLY IN A COURT OF EQUITY.
HE LATER VOTED AGAINST THE BILL.
MR WONG SAID: “WHERE THERE IS A COURT OF EQUITY. A TRUST WILL BE ENFORCED WITHOUT THE NEED FOR ANY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION BY FORCE OF THE ORDINARY PRINCIPLES OF EQUITY. WHERE THERE IS NO COURT OF EQUITY HAVING JURISDICTION. AN EQUITABLE OBLIGATION CANNOT BE ENFORCED.
“IN RELATION TO A TRUST PROPERLY SO CALLED, THERE IS NO NEED FOR THE CONVENTION IN JURISDICTIONS WHERE THERE IS A COURT OF EQUITY, AND IN JURISDICTIONS WHERE THERE IS NO COURT OF EQUITY, A CONVENTION CANNOT MAKE AN EQUITABLE OBLIGATION ENFORCEABLE, UNLESS IT ALSO ESTABLISHES A COURT OF EQUITY IN THAT JURISDICTION WHICH THIS CONVENTION DOES NOT PURPORT TO DO.”
MR WONG WENT ON: “THE CONVENTION PURPORTS TO OVERCOME THIS PROBLEM BY DEFINING AS A TRUST, SOMETHING WHICH IS NOT A TRUST, AND THEN PURPORTING TO MAKE RULES RELATING TO THESE NON-TRUSTS WHICH IT CALLS TRUSTS.”
CONFUSION WAS HEAPED UPON CONFUSION BY CLAUSE 2(3) OF THE BILL, HE SAID.
/"IF THIS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
- 9 -
"IF THIS IS GIVEN ANY MEANING IT IS ONLY CONSISTENT WITH THE WHOLE OF THE EXISTING TRUST LAW INCLUDING SEVERAL HUNDREDS YEARS OF CAREFULLY THOUGHT OUT DECISIONS OF COURTS OF EQUITY BEING REPLACED BY A FEW PROVISIONS IN AN OBVIOUSLY QUESTIONABLE CONVENTION," HE SAID.
HE SAID THAT THE RESULT COULD BE DISASTROUS, BUT WAS UNLIKELY TO FOLLOW. BECAUSE IF THE MATTER WAS PROPERLY ARGUED, A COURT WAS LIKELY TO HOLD THAT NO RATIONAL MEANING COULD BE GIVEN TO THE CONVENTION OR THIS LEGISLATION.
ACCORDING TO MR WONG. THERE WAS ANOTHER PROBLEM IN ARTICLE 2 OF THE CONVENTION, BECAUSE ON EXAMINATION THAT PROVISION WOULD BE SEEN TO BE CIRCULAR AND ILLOGICAL.
HE SAID THAT IF ITS PURPOSE WAS TO IDENTIFY WHAT WAS THE PROPER LAW OF A TRUST THEN IT DID THIS BY DEFINING A TRUST AND THEN STATING WHAT LAW GOVERNED THE TRUST.
"BUT THE DEFINITION OF THE TRUST REQUIRES ONE TO ASCERTAIN THE PROPER LAW OF THE RELATIONSHIP.
"IF THE PROPER LAW HAS BEEN DETERMINED THERE IS NO ROOM FOR ANY OPERATION OF THE ARTICLE FOR DETERMINING THE PROPER LAW AS THAT HAS ALREADY BEEN DETERMINED.
"IF IT HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED. THEN IT CANNOT BE SAID THAT THE RELATIONSHIP IS A TRUST AS DEFINED IN THE CONVENTION. AND UNTIL IT CAN BE SAID TO BE SUCH A TRUST THE PROVISIONS OF THE CONVENTION DO NOT APPLY AND THF CONVENTION HAS NO OPERATION." HE SAID.
-------0---------
RECORD NUMBER OF VISITORS TO OCEAN PARK *»»***
ABOUT TWO MILLION PEOPLE, INCLUDING 590,000 FROM OVERSEAS, VISITED OCEAN PARK IN THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1989, WHICH IS THE HIGHEST ANNUAL ATTENDANCE SINCE THE PARK WAS OPENED TO THF PUBLIC IN 1977, THE HON RONALD ARCULLI SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
TABLING THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE ARCULLI SAID THE ATTENDANCE REPRESENTED OVER THE PREVIOUS YEAR’S FIGURES.
OCEAN PARK CORPORATION, MR A SEVEN PER CENT INCREASE
"THE OPERATING INCOME ALSO REACHED A RECORD LEVEL OF J160.3 MILLION. INCLUSIVE OF INTEREST AND DIVIDENDS FROM THE OCEAN PARK TRUST FUND, THERE WAS A SURPLUS OF $38.5 MILLION," MR ARCULLI, WHO IS A MEMBER OF THE OCEAN I’ARK CORPORATION BOARD, SAID.
HE SAID THESE EXCELLENT RESULTS HAD ENABLED OCEAN PARK TO FUND NEW ATTRACTIONS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE PUBLIC, INCLUDING THE IMAGINATIVE MIDDLE KINGDOM DEVELOPMENT WHICH WAS DUE TO OPEN IN JANUARY.
/"THIS IS .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
10 -
"THIS IS BUT ONE EXCELLENT EXAMPLE OF OCEAN PARK’S COMMITMENT TO PROVIDE A WORLD-CLASS RECREATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX FOR LOCAL AND FOREIGN VISITORS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES," HE SAID.
MR ARCULLI SAID THE PROVISION OF NEW ATTRACTIONS WHEN CAPITAL AND OPERATING COSTS HAD RISEN SHARPLY PROMPTED OCEAN PARK TO SUBMIT TO THE GOVERNMENT IN JUNE LAST YEAR OUTLINE PROPOSALS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CARPARK AT THE LOWLAND AND THE TAI SHUE WAN SITE.
THESE PROPOSALS, IF APPROVED BY THE GOVERNMENT, WOULD PROVIDE OCEAN PARK WITH A NEW SOURCE OF INCOME. THEY ALSO HAD THE ADDITIONAL ADVANTAGE OF ALLOWING VISITORS ACCESS TO INDOOR FACILITIES.
"WE HOPE THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD GIVE SYMPATHETIC CONSIDERATION TO THESE PROPOSALS SO THAT WE CAN PROCEED WITH FURTHER PLANNING AND STUDIES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE," HE SAID.
-------0----------
PERIOD FOR MAKING AMENDMENTS EXTENDED *****
A MOTION ON THE PERIOD FOR AMENDING SUBSIDIARY LEGISLATION. IN THIS CASE THE ANIMALS AND PLANTS (PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES) (EXEMPTION) (AMENDMENT) ORDER 1989, WHICH WAS GAZETTED ON OCTOBER 13. WAS PASSED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE ORDER PROVIDED FOR NEW CONTROL MEASURES CONCERNING THE POSSESSION AND EXPORT OF ALL IVORY FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES. AND WAS LAID ON THE TABLE OF LEGCO ON OCTOBER 18.
UNDER THE MOTION. THE 28-DAY PERIOD FOR AMENDING THE RELEVANT SUBSIDIARY LEGISLATION, WHICH WOULD HAVE EXPIRED TODAY. HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO DECEMBER 6.
THE MOTION WAS MOVED BY THE HON TAM YIU-CHUNG UNDER THE INTERPRETATION AND GENERAL CLAUSES ORDINANCE.
MR TAM SAID THE AIM WAS TO ALLOW MORE TIME IN FINDING A FEASIBLE SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM FACED BY IVORY TRADERS AND WORKERS.
HE SAID AN EXTENSION WOULD GIVE A LEGCO AD HOC GROUP FORMED TO STUDY THE ORDER MORE TIME TO CONSIDER SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED FROM IVORY TRADERS AND WORKERS AND TO DISCUSS THE RELEVANT ISSUES WITH THE ADMINISTRATION.
--------0----------
/11
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 15, 1989
11 FUNDING UNLIKELY FOR SOME YEARS *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS UNLIKELY TO BE ABLE TO FUND. FOR SOME YEARS AT LEAST, THE PHASE III URBAN DEVELOPMENT OF TSEUNG KWAN O, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING. ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, THE HON GRAHAM BARNES, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THIS WAS BECAUSE THE GOVERNMENT NEEDED TO INVEST HEAVILY IN THE PORT. AIRPORT AND ELSEWHERE.
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON TAM YIU-CHUNG ON WHEN THE GOVERNMENT WOULD IMPLEMENT PHASE III OF THE TSEUNG KWAN 0 DEVELOPMENT, MR BARNES SAID THE HOUSING AUTHORITY WAS LOOKING AT THE POSSIBILITY OF TAKING ON ITSELF THE REDEVELOPMENT OF TIL' KENG LENG COTTAGE AREA TO PROVIDE HOUSING FOR SOME 40,000 PEOPLE.
HE ADDED THAT THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EASTERN SIDE OF TSEUNG KWAN 0. INCLUDING AN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE. SHOULD NOT BE AFFECTED AS IT WAS EXPECTED TO BE FUNDED FROM OTHER SOURCES.
-------0----------
GOOD CONDUCT EXPECTED OF UK IMMIGRATION STAFF
******
THE UK AUTHORITIES HAVE POINTED OUT THAT BRITISH IMMIGRATION OFFICERS AND HEALTH AUTHORITY PERSONNEL ARE EXPECTED TO OBSERVE THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF CONDUCT WHEN DEALING WITH THE TRAVELLING PUBLIC. THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY. THE HON GEOFFREY BARNES. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE WAS REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON SELINA CHOW. WHO ASKED WHAT ACTION THE ADMINISTRATION HAD TAKEN IN RESPONSE TO A RECENT PRESS REPORT REGARDING ALLEGED ROUGH HANDLING OF HONG KONG STUDENTS ENTERING THE UNITED KINGDOM THROUGH GATWICK AIRPORT.
MR BARNES SAID THAT NO COMPLAINT RELATING TO THE ALLEGED INCIDENT HAD BEEN RECEIVED. AND THE UK AUTHORITIES HAD EMPHASISED THAT ANY SPECIFIC COMPLAINTS WERE INVESTIGATED.
HE POINTED OUT THAT AS A RESULT OF AN APPROACH BY THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER. A FEW DAYS AFTER THE NEWSPAPER REPORT. IT HAD BEEN ASSURED THAT:
- THE UK DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH WAS REVIEWING STAFFING LEVELS AT GATWICK TO REDUCE THE WAITING TIME: AND
- IMMIGRATION CONTROL AND HEALTH UNIT WAITING TIMES WERE Al,READY MUCH LESS THAN THEY WERE IN SEPTEMBER
/MR BARNES
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1p, 1989
- 12 -
MR BARNES SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD TRIED TO OBTAIN THE FACTS OF THE INCIDENT FROM THE FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE AND THROUGH THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT OFFICE IN LONDON. DRAWING ON THE USUAL CONTACTS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM SUCH AS THE TELEPHONE ADVISORY SERVICE. THE CHINESE COMMUNITY. STUDENT BODIES AND SO ON.
"DESPITE THE PRESS REPORT IN SEPTEMBER WE HAVE RECEIVED NO COMPLAINTS EITHER IN LONDON OR HERE IN HONG KONG,” HE SAID.
MR BARNES EXPLAINED THAT THE PRESS REPORT MAINLY ALLEGED TWO THINGS: LONG WAITING TIME FOR IMMIGRATION AND MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS. AND RUDE TREATMENT OF HONG KONG STUDENTS AT GATWICK.
THE REASONS GIVEN BY THE UK AUTHORITIES FOR THE DELAYS WERE:
- THE LARGE NUMBER OF RETURNING AND NEW STUDENTS IN SEPTEMBER.
ALL ARRIVING WITHIN A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME:
- THE BUNCHING OF FLIGHTS FROM HONG KONG IN THE EARLY' MORNING: AND
- THE STAFFING LEVELS AND FACILITIES OF THE IMMIGRATION CONTROL UNIT AND IN THE HEALTH CONTROL UNIT WHICH WERE SET TO COPE WITH NORMAL PASSENGER NUMBERS RATHER THAN EXCEPTIONAL PEAKS .
------0 -------
NO EVIDENCE OF FALL IN OVERALL AIR POLLUTION t » » * *
THERE IS NO EVIDENCE FROM GOVERNMENT MONITORING STATIONS THAT THE OVERALL LEVEI. OF AIR POLLUTION HAS ACTUALLY FALLEN. THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING. ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, THE HON GRAHAM BARNES. SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THIS WAS IN SPITE OF SOME 6,000 GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATIONS TO FACTORIES. 600 LEGAL NOTICES AND OVER 1,000 PROSECUTIONS INITIATED SINCE THE ENACTMENT OF THE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE IN 1983, HE SAID.
MR BARNES WAS REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON CHENG HON-KWAN ON PROGRESS IN REDUCING AIR POLLUTION BY FACTORY EMISSIONS, SINCE THE ENACTMENT OF THE ORDINANCE.
HOWEVER, MR BARNES SAID, THIS WAS NOT TO SAY THAT THE SIX YEARS WAS TIME WASTED.
"AIR CONTROL ZONES HAVE BEEN DECLARED, AIR QUALITY OBJECTIVES HAVE BEEN SET AND NEW REGULATIONS TO CONTROL AIR POLLUTING INDUSTRIES MADE. ALL ACTIONS PRE-REQUISITE TO CONTROL UNDER ANY SYSTEM OF ENFORCEMENT.
/"THERE HAVE .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
''THERE HAVE ALSO BEEN LOCAL SUCCESS STORIES IN ADVICE-GIVING AND LEGAL ACTION AND THE MONITORING SYSTEM HAS BEEN IMPROVED, WITH 10 AIR POLLUTION MONITORING STATIONS NOW OPERATIONAL COMPARED WITH FOUR IN 1983,” HE SAID.
BUT ABOVE ALL, HE SAID, II’ WAS MOST UNLIKELY THAT THE ADMINISTRATION WOULD NOW BE IN A POSITION TO JUSTIFY APPROVAL OF REGULATIONS TO RESTRICT THE SULPHUR CONTENT OF FUEL OIL TO 0.5 PER CENT IF IT WERE NOT ABLE TO SHOW THAT A SYSTEM OF LICENSING. PROSECUTION AND APPEALS CONCERNING INDIVIDUAL FACTORIES HAD FAILED TO PRODUCE THE REDUCTION IN POLLUTION LEVELS NEEDED.
’’THIS IS THE SINGLE PIECE OF ACTION WHICH WILL REDUCE AIR POLLUTION LEVELS MOST.’ HE ADDED.
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FURTHER WORKING PARTY ON CHINESE LANGUAGE IN COURTS t ♦ ♦ ♦ t
THE JUDICIARY HAS FORMED ANOTHER WORKING PARTY TO CONSIDER THE RECOMMENDATIONS MADE EARLIER ON THE GREATER USE OF CHINESE IN COURTS, THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE HON FRANK STOCK. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE WORKING PARTY’S REPORT WAS EXPECTED BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR, MR STOCK SAID IN REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON SO CHAU YIM-PING ON WHETHER THE WORKING PARTY ON THE GREATER USE OF CHINESE IN MAGISTRATES COURTS HAD COMPLETED ITS STUDY AND WHAT ITS RECOMMENDATIONS WERE.
MR STOCK SAID ON JANUARY 15. 1987. THE THEN CHIEF JUSTICE APPOINTED A WORKING PARTY TO CONSIDER THE EXTENT TO WHICH GREATER USE COULD BE MADE OF THE CHINESE LANGUAGE IN COURTS AND COURT PROCEDURE, AND TO MAKI RECOMMENDATIONS ACCORDINGLY.
“IT LOOKED AT ALL COURTS, NOT JUST THE MAGISTRACY. IT SUBMITTED A REPORT IN JANUARY 1988.” HE SAID.
THE WORKING PARTY ACKNOWLEDGED THAT EACH LEVEL OF COURT HAD A DIFFERENT NEED. AND ACCORDINGLY IT MADE SEPARATE RECOMMENDATIONS IN RESPECT OF EACH COURT AND TRIBUNAL.
IT ALSO DEALT WITH DOCUMENTS USED BY THE COURTS, AND URGED THAT PRIORITY BE GIVEN TO ENSURING THAT ALL DOCUMENTS CONCERNING COURT PROCEEDINGS. OR OTHERWISE USED OR ISSUED BY THE COURTS, BE BILINGUAL.
IN ADDITION, THE WORKING PARTY MADE CERTAIN RECOMMENDATIONS ABOUT THE PRIORITY TO BE ACCORDED TO TRANSLATING LEGISLATION.
/"THE QUESTION
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 19&9
14 -
"THE QUESTION POSED TODAY MAKES PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO THE MAGISTRATES COURTS. ALTHOUGH, AS I HAVE SAID, THE REMIT OF THE WORKING PARTY WAS WIDER THAN THAT,
"PERHAPS I MIGHT FOR THE PURPOSE OF THIS ANSWER RESTRICT MYSELF TO THE PRINCIPAL RECOMMENDATIONS IN RELATION TO THE MAGISTRATES COURTS.
"IT WAS UPON THE GROWING USE OF CHINESE IN THESE COURTS THAT THE WORKING PARTI PLACED PRIME IMPORTANCE BECAUSE THESE COURTS REPRESENT THE JUDICIAL SYSTEM AT ITS POINT OF MAXIMUM CONTACT WITH THE PUBLIC. AND BECAUSE THE VAST MAJORITY OF THE COMMUNITY SPEAK CHINESE," MR STOCK SAID.
HE SAID THE WORKING PARTY RECOMMENDED THAT AT THE OUTSET OF PROCEEDINGS THE MAGISTRATE, EACH LAWYER AND ANY UNREPRESENTED PARTY, SHOULD MAKE AN INITIAL CHOICE OF LANGUAGE WHICH EACH WOULD RESPECTIVELY SPEAK DURING THE PROCEEDINGS.
IT ALSO RECOMMENDED THAT. SAVE IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, ALL DOCUMENTS IN EITHER LANGUAGE BE TRANSLATED PRIOR TO THE PROCEEDINGS AND THAT DOCUMENTS IN A LANGUAGE OTHER THAN CHINESE OR ENGLISH SHOULD BE TRANSLATED INTO BOTH OF THOSE LANGUAGES PRIOR TO THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE PROCEEDINGS.
FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS INCLUDED WERE THAT THE MAGISTRATE BE PERMITTED TO CHOOSE THE LANGUAGE OF THE RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS. AND THAT THIS LANGUAGE SHOULD BE THE OFFICIAL RECORD; THAT THE BRIEF JUDGEMENT OR VERDICT SHOULD BE RECORDED BILINGUALLY AT THE END OF THE RECORD; AND THAT IN THE EVENT OF AN APPEAL, THE PARTY SHOULD BE ENTITLED UPON APPLICATION TO HAVE A TRANSLATION OF THE TRANSCRIPT OF THE PROCEEDINGS.
OTHER TRIBUNALS AND COURTS WERE CONSIDERED. THESE WERE THE SMALL CLAIMS AND LABOUR TRIBUNALS, THE CORONERS COURT, THE IMMIGRATION TRIBUNAL. THE DISTRICT COURT. THE LABOUR TRIBUNAL AND THE SUPREME COURT.
MR STOCK SAID: "ALTHOUGH THE REPORT FULLY RECOGNISED THAT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ITS RECOMMENDATIONS WOULD REQUIRE. AMONGST OTHER THINGS. AN INCREASE IN THE RECRUITMENT OF SKILLED INTERPRETERS AND TRANSLATORS TO THE JUDICIARY. AND ALSO AN EXTENSION OF THEIR TRAINING PROGRAMME. IT DID NOT SPECIFICALLY ADDRESS THE QUESTIONS OF COST AND RESOURCES. WHICH QUESTIONS FELL OUTSIDE ITS TERMS OF REFERENCE.
"IN 1988. THEREFORE. A SUB-COMMITTEE WAS FORMED TO CONSIDER THE PRACTICAL CONSEQUENCES AND RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS.
"IT COMPRISED MEMBERS OF THE JUDICIARY AND WAS ASSISTED BY OFFICERS OF FINANCE BRANCH. THIS SUB-COMMITTEE CONSIDERED THAT THE RECOMMENDATIONS RELATING TO THE LOWER COURTS COULD BE IMPLEMENTED RELATIVELY SIMPLY BY MANPOWER INCREASES. LARGELY OF INTERPRETERS AND TRANSLATORS, BUT THAT THE HIGH COURT PROPOSALS WERE MORE COMPLEX.
/"CONFINING ITSELF
WEDNESDAZ, NOVEMBER 15. 1989
"CONFINING ITSELF TO THE LOWER COURTS, THE SUB-COMMITTEE WAS OF THE VIEW THAT THE WORKING PARTY'S RECOMMENDATIONS WOULD ENTAIL EXTRA WORK IN RELATION TO PRE-TRIAL AND POST-TRIAL PERIODS, COMPREHENDING IN PARTICULAR TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE, PLEADINGS, AND LENGTHY JUDGEMENTS. AND TRANSCRIPTS OF PROCEEDINGS FOR APPEAL."
FOR THESE EXTRA FUNCTIONS. THE SUB-COMMITTEE CALCULATED THE REQUIRED INCREASE IN INTERPRETERS AND TRANSLATORS FOR THE MAGISTRACY IN A RATIO OF THREE NEW POSTS FOR EVERY TWO COURTS. IT ESTIMATED THAT EXTRA TYPIST AND CALL1GRAPHIST POSTS WOULD ALSO BE REQUIRED. THE ANNUAL RECURRENT COST WAS CALCULATED AT *19.6 MILLION. HE SAID.
ESTIMATES OF POSTS REQUIRED WERE ALSO MADE FOR THE DISTRICT COURT AND THE SMALL CLAIMS AND LABOUR TRIBUNALS. THE TOTAL COST FOR ALL COURTS CONSIDERED IN THE EXERCISE (EXCEPTING HIGH COURT, AND CORNONER’S COURT HEARINGS WITH A JURY) WAS ESTIMATED AT *39.7 MILLION, OF WHICH STAFF COSTS WOULD BE *33.94 MILLION. HE SAID.
QUITE APART FROM THE FACT THAT EXPENDITURE ON SUCH A SCALE WOULD SIGNIFICANTLY CURTAIL THE RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR OTHER AREAS, VERY REAL DOUBT HAD BEEN EXPRESSED AS TO THE AVAILABILITY OF SUFICIENT PERSONS POSSESSED OF THE SKILLS ESSENTIAL FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS, MR STOCK SAID.
“1 AM ADVISED THAT IN VIEW OF THIS PROBLEM IT WAS FELT NECESSARY TO FORM ANOTHER WORKING PARTY WHOSE JOB IT IS TO CONSIDER FROM A PRACTICAL POINT OF VIEW WHICH OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS MIGHT BE IMPLEMENTED GIVEN THESE QUESTIONS OF COST AND OF THE AVAILABILITY OF SKILLS." HE SAID.
-----o-----
POLICE UPHOLD PRINCIPLE OF FREE PRESS t * » » »
THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE HAS ALWAYS UPHELD THE PRINCIPLE OF A FREE. INDEPENDENT AND RESPONSIBLE PRESS. THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY. THE HON GEOFFREY BARNES, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"THEY HAVE NEVER DELIBERATELY SOUGHT TO INFRINGE UPON OR TO RESTRICT THE FREEDOM OF THE PRESS. NOR IS IT THEIR INTENTION TO DO SO IN THE FUTURE." MR BARNES SAID IN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON MIRIAM LAU REGARDING THE RECENT SEIZURE BY THE POLICE OF VIDEO TAPES FROM TWO TELEVISION STATIONS.
HE POINTED OUT THAT IN EXERCISING POWERS UNDER THE POLICE FORCE OR ANY OTHER ORDINANCE, THE POLICE AIMED TO ENSURE THAT ANY ACTION TAKEN WAS LEGAL AND JUSTIFIED, HAVING REGARD TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE RELEVANT LEGISLATION, RULES OF EVIDENCE AND THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE SITUATION ITSELF.
/"IN CONSIDERING
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
16 -
"IN CONSIDERING AN APPLICATION BY THE POLICE FOR A WARRANT, A MAGISTRATE WILL BE MINDFUL OF THE NEED TO PROTECT THE CIVIL RIGHTS OF THOSE WHO MAY BE DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY POLICE ACTION ON THE ONE HAND, AND THOSE OF OTHER MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY ON THE OTHER.
"BEFORE ISSUING THE WARRANT THE MAGISTRATE HAS TO HAVE REASONABLE CAUSE TO SUSPECT, UPON THE OATH OF THE APPLICANT, THAT A DOCUMENT, ARTICLE OR THING MAY THROW LIGHT ON THE CHARACTER OR ACTIVITIES OF A PERSON SUSPECTED OF AN OFFENCE," MR BARNES SAID.
MR BARNES SAID IT WOULD BE INAPPROPRIATE FOR HIM TO COMMENT AT THIS STAGE ON THE DETAILS OF THIS PARTICULAR CASE AS THE MATTER WAS SUB-JUDICE PENDING COURT HEARINGS NEXT MONTH.
"HOWEVER, I AM INFORMED THAT THE WARRANT IN THIS INSTANCE WAS ONLY SOUGHT AFTER THE REJECTION BY THE TELEVISION COMPANIES CONCERNED OF REQUESTS TO ALLOW INVESTIGATING OFFICERS TO VIEW THE VIDEO TAPES," HE SAID.
AS REGARDS AMENDMENT OF THE POLICE FORCE ORDINANCE TO BRING IT INTO LINE WITH THE UK POLICE AND CRIMINAL EVIDENCE ACT OF 1984, MR BARNES SAID THAT IN NOVEMBER LAST YEAR THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION WAS INVITED TO EXAMINE, AMONGST OTHER THINGS, THE EXISTING LAW AND PRACTICE GOVERNING THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE POLICE IN RELATION TO ENTRY, SEARCH AND SEIZURE, AND ARREST AND DETENTION.
"IN PARTICULAR, THE COMMISSION WAS INVITED TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS AS TO WHETHER THE PROVISIONS CONTAINED IN THE POLICE AND CRIMINAL EVIDENCE ACT OF 1984, AND THE CODES OF PRACTICE THEREUNDER. SHOULD BE ADOPTED IN HONG KONG, WITH OR WITHOUT MODIFICATION," HE SAID.
-----o-----
TWO RAILWAY CORPORATIONS BEING CLOSELY MONITORED
*****
THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL. THE CHIEF SECRETARY AND THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY ARE EMPOWERED BY LAW TO GIVE DIRECTIONS TO THE TWO RAILWAY CORPORATIONS ON ISSUES OF PUBLIC INTEREST, INCLUDING SAFETY AND FINANCIAL AFFAIRS, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, THE HON MICHAEL LEUNG, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON TAI CHIN-WAH, MR LEUNG SAID THERE WERE DETAILED PROVISIONS IN THE LEGISLATION TO ENSURE THE CORPORATIONS FULFILLED THEIR STATUTORY DUTIES.
THE ENFORCEMENT OF THESE PROVISIONS WAS MONITORED BY THE TRANSPORT BRANCH. ASSISTED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, WHOSE STAFF WERE IN CLOSE AND REGULAR TOUCH WITH BOTH RAIL MANAGEMENTS, HE SAID.
/ON THE .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
- 17 -
ON THE QUESTION OF BRINGING THE TWO RAILWAY SERVICES WITHIN THE SCRUTINY OF THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC), MR LEUNG SAID A DISTINCTION SHOULD BE DRAWN BETWEEN RAIL SERVICES AND DEVELOPMENTS IN GENERAL AND RAIL MANAGEMENT.
HE SAID THAT MANAGEMENT WAS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF GOVERNMENT-APPOINTED BOARDS OF THE TWO RAIL CORPORATIONS AND THE TAC'S INVOLVEMENT WOULD DUPLICATE THEIR ROLE.
"THE BROADER ASPECTS OF RAIL SERVICES AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE OVERALL TRANSPORT STRATEGY ARE ALREADY TAKEN CARE OF BY TAC." HE SAID.
SUBJECTS DISCUSSED BY THE TAC IN RECENT YEARS INCLUDED THE EFFECTS OF THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY PEAK HOUR CONGESTION FARE ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES, SERVICES AND SAFETY OF THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEM. AND CURRENTLY DETAILED COMMENTS ON THE GREEN PAPER. INCLUDING FUTURE RAILWAY DEVELOPMENTS. THEIR TIMING AND ALIGNMENTS, MR LEUNG SAID.
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UNLEADED PETROL EXPECTED IN 12 - 15 MONTHS * * » t *
UNLEADED PETROL IS EXPECTED TO BE AVAILABLE IN HONG KONG IN 12 TO 15 MONTHS. THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING. ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS. THE HON GRAHAM BARNES. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON PAUL CHENG. MR BARNES SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS AT PRESENT DISCUSSING THE SPECIFICATIONS OF THE FUEL WITH OIL COMPANIES.
AND THE ESTIMATE OF 12 TO 15 MONTHS WHICH ORIGINATED WITH THE OIL COMPANIES. IS THE TIME WHEN WE EXPECTED THE GRADE OF PETROL TO BE CHOSEN AND ARRANGEMENTS MADE FOR ITS SUPPLY." HE SAID.
MR BARNES ALSO SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS PLANNING TO ENACT LEGISLATION TO ENFORCE CONVERSION AND COMPLIANCE OVER A PERIOD.
HE EXPECTED TO RECEIVE A DETAILED PROPOSAL ON THIS MATTER SHORTLY.
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/18........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 15. 1989
DEDICATED LINE NOT MANDATORY FOR FAX MACHINE * ♦ ♦ » ♦
ASSURANCES WILL BE SOUGHT FROM THE HONG KONG TELEPHONE COMPANY THAT IT WILL TAKE ACTION TO ENSURE THAT SUBSCRIBERS UNDERSTAND THAT A DEDICATED TELEPHONE LINE IS NOT MANDATORY FOR A FACSIMILE MACHINE. THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, THE HON ANSON CHAN, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM DR THE HON HENRIETTA IP, MRS CHAN SAID THERE WAS NO LEGAL REQUIREMENT FOR A DEDICATED TELEPHONE LINE TO BE USED FOR A FACSIMILE MACHINE. NOR WAS THIS A REQUIREMENT UNDER THE TELEPHONE COMPANY’S OWN CONDITIONS OF SERVICE.
’’THE GOVERNMENT HAS UP TO NOW RECEIVED NO COMPLAINTS OR PUBLIC COMMENT INDICATING MISUNDERSTANDINGS ON THE QUESTION OF WHETHER A DEDICATED TELEPHONE LINE IS REQUIRED FOR FACSIMILE MACHINES.
"I AM GRATEFUL THEREFORE TO DR IP FOR BRINGING THIS MATTER TO MY ATTENTION,” SHE SAID.
DR IP HAD SAID SOME MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WERE UNDER THE WRONG IMPRESSION THAT IT WAS MANDATORY FOR THEM TO APPLY FOR A DEDICATED LINE FOR A FACSIMILE MACHINE.
- - 0 - -
TRANSPORT SERVICES FOR TIN SHUI WAI RESIDENTS
THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION IS PLANNING TO RUN BUS SERVICES FROM TIN SHUI WAJ NEW TOWN TO YUEN LONG AND HUNG SHUI KIU BEFORE THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT (LRT) SYSTEM IS EXTENDED TO THE NEW TOWN, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT. THE HON MICHAEL LEUNG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON TAI CHIN-WAH, MR LEUNG SAID THAT IN YUEN LONG AND HUNG SHUI KIU THE PASSENGERS COULD CHANGE TO OTHER MODES OF TRANSPORT.
HE SAID THE KOWLOON MOTOR BUS COMPANY WOULD ALSO OPERATE FOUR NEW EXTERNAL BUS ROUTES FROM TIN SHUT WAI TO TSUEN WAN AND SHAM SHUI PO WHERE PASSENGERS COULD CHANGE TO THE MTR OR TO BUSES FOR OTHER DESTINATIONS.
HE ADDED THAT GREEN MINIBUS SERVICES WOULD ALSO BE INTRODUCED.
"ALL THESE SERVICES ARE PLANNED TO TIE IN WITH THE POPULATION INTAKE AND WILL BE EXPANDED AND IMPROVED AS PASSENGER DEMAND INCREASES,” HE SAID.
/MR LEUNG
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
- 19 -
MR LEUNG ASSURED MEMBERS THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD BE MONITORING THE SITUATION CLOSELY TO ENSURE THE TRAVELLING NEEDS OF RESIDENTS OF TIN SHUI WAI WERE ADEQUATELY CATERED FOR.
ON THE IMPLEMENTATION DATE OF LRT EXTENSION TO TIN SHUI WAI, HE SAID THAT WHEN THE KCRC WAS FIRST INVITED TO TAKE ON THE LRT PROJECT. IT WAS ENVISAGED THAT THE FULL NETWORK WOULD BE BUILT IN STAGES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROGRESS OF DEVELOPMENTS, LEADING TO THE EVENTUAL COMPLETION OF THE VARIOUS REGIONAL EXTENSIONS IN THE MID-1990’S.
"ACCORDING TO THE PRESENT PROGRAMME, POPULATION INTAKE IN TIN SHUI WAI NEW TOWN WOULD START IN DECEMBER 1991.
"POPULATION IS ESTIMATED TO BE AROUND 16.000 BY THE END OF 1992. BUILDING UP EVENTUALLY TO OVER 135.000 BY- THE END OF 1996," HE SAID.
MR LEUNG SAID THE KCRC WAS CONDUCTING A DETAILED STUDY TO ASCERTAIN THE IMPLEMENTATION DATE OF THE LRT EXTENSION TO TIN SHUI WAI IN THE LIGHT OF MORE ACCURATE POPULATION PROJECTIONS AND A MORE IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS OF LRT PATRONAGE GROWTH AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE.
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VIETNAMESE ACCOUNT FOR SMALL PERCENTAGE OF HOSPITAL USE ******
IT WOULD SEEM FROM AVAILABLE EVIDENCE THAT THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE AND REFUGEES (VBP AND VR ’ S 1 ACCOUNT FOR ONLY A VERY SMALL PERCENTAGE OF THE OVERALL UTILISATION OF PUBLIC HOSPITAL BEDS AND CASUALTY SERVICES. THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, THE HON T.H. CHAU, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION BY THE HON NGA I SHIU-KIT, MR CHAU SAID THE USE OF HOSPITAL FACILITIES BY THE VIETNAMESE WAS NOT KNOWN TO HAVE ADVERSELY AFFECTED THE AVAILABILITY OF SUCH SERVICES TO LOCAL RESIDENTS OR CAUSED SERIOUS DELAYS TO LOCAL RESIDENTS SEEKING TREATMENT.
HE GAVE STATISTICS KEPT BY THE FOUR REGIONAL HOSPITALS. NAMELY, QUEEN ELIZABETH HOSPITAL, QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL. PRINCESS MARGARET HOSPITAL AND PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL. ON THE NUMBER OF VBP AND VR'S ADMITTED IN 1988 AND 1989 INTO ONE OF THESE HOSPITALS.
ACCORDINGLY. THE TOTAL NUMBER OF HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS IN 1988 WAS 400,099 AND OF THESE, 2.965 (OR 0.74 PER CENT) WERE VBP AND VR’S.
FROM JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR. 5,870 VBP AND VR’S (OR 2.1 PER CENT) WERE ADMITTED TO HOSPITAL AMONG THE 279.279 HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS.
/AS FOR........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
20
AS FOR THE NUMBERS ATTENDING THE ACCIDENT AND EMERGENCY ( A&E ) DEPARTMENTS AT THE FOUR HOSPITALS, MR CHAU SAID IN 1988, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF A&E ATTENDANCES WAS 600,178; OF THESE, 3,368 (OR 0.56 PER CENT) WERE VBP AND VR’S.
FROM JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR, THERE WERE 7,007 VBP AND VR ' S (OR 1.45 PER CENT I ATTENDING A&E DEPARTMENTS OUT OF THE TOTAL NUMBER OF 484.110.
HOWEVER. THERE WERE NO AVAILABLE STATISTICS TO IDENTIFY THE NUMBER OF VIETNAMESE ADMISSIONS AND ATTENDANCES THAT WERE DUE TO INJURIES SUSTAINED IN FIGHTING OR UPON CONTRACTION OF DISEASE, MR CHAU SAID.
"NOR HAS IT BEEN POSSIBLE IN THE TIME AVAILABLE TO IDENTIFY VBP AND VR ADMISSIONS OR ATTENDANCES AT ALL PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN HONG KONG," HE ADDED.
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SPECIAL JOB REGISTER TO ASSIST IVORY WORKERS * » » » »
THE LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (LES) OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS OPENED A SPECIAL REGISTER TO ASSIST IVORY WORKERS WHO MAY WISH TO TAKE UP ALTERNATIVE EMPLOYMENT. THE SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC SERVICES, THE HON ANSON CHAN. TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IVORY WORKERS COULD APPROACH ANY OF THE 16 LES OFFICES FOR ASSISTANCE. MRS CHAN SAID IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON TAM YIU-CHUNGs
SHE SAID THE BAN ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE TN IVORY. IMPOSED ON HONG KONG BY THE INTERNATIONA). COMMUNITY, WOULD CAUSE DIFFICULTIES TO BOTH IVORY TRADERS AND WORKERS.
"STAFF OF' THE LES ARE ALREADY CANVASSING SUITABLE JOB VACANCIES FROM VARIOUS TRADES AND INDUSTRIES.
"IN ADDITION. THE LABOUR RELATIONS SERVICE WILL ADVISE THE WORKERS OF BENEFITS DUE TO THEM UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE AND WILL ASSIST THEM IN RESOLVING PROBLEMS WHICH THEY MAY HAVE WITH THEIR EMPLOYERS IN RELATION TO WAGES. LONG SERVICE PAYMENTS OR SEVERANCE PAYMENTS ON REDUNDANCY." SHE SAID.
MRS CHAN SAID IN CASE AN EMPLOYER WAS UNABLE TO PAY BENEFITS DUE TO HIS EMPLOYEES. AS A RESULT OF INSOLVENCY, THE WORKERS AFFECTED WOULD BE ASSISTED IN APPLYING FOR RELIEF FROM THE PROTECTION OF WAGES ON INSOLVENCY FUND.
/"AS FOR .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
- 21
"AS FOR IVORY WORKERS WHO MAY SEEK RETRAINING THE GOVERNMENT WILL ASK THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL TO ARRANGE SUITABLE COURSES.
"THE COUNCIL ALREADY OPERATES A NUMBER OF SHORT COURSES WHOSE GRADUATES ARE IN GREAT DEMAND. THE VTC MAY HAVE TO EXPAND THE CAPACITY OF THESE COURSES OR MODIFY THEIR CONTENTS TO SUIT THE NEEDS OF THE CARVERS.
"SOME ADDITIONAL FUNDS MAY WELL BE NECESSARY TO FINANCE THIS PROGRAMME THOUGH WE DO NOT ANTICIPATE PROBLEMS IN THIS REGARD." SHE SAID.
-------o---------
FOUR BILLS PASSED
* » *
FOUR BILLS WERE PASSED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THEY WERE THE CONTROL OF EXEMPTION CLAUSES BILL 1989. THE RECOGNITION OF TRUSTS BILL 1989, THE MERCHANT SHIPPING (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989, AND THE HOSPITALS. NURSING HOMES AND MATERNITY HOMES REGISTRATION (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989.
A MOTION ON EXTENDING THE PERIOD FOR AMENDING SUBSIDIARY LEGISLATION. IN THIS CASE OF THE ANIMALS AND PLANTS (PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES) (EXEMPTION) (AMENDMENT) ORDER 1989, WAS PASSED.
IN ADDITION. TWO BILLS WERE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
THEY WERE THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 AND THE STAMP DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989. DEBATES ON THESE BILLS WERE ADJOURNED.
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/22........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 15. 1989
22
CIVIL SERVICE PROVIDES CHALLENGING OPPORTUNITIES
THE CIVIL SERVICE PROVIDES A RANGE OF CHALLENGING OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE SEEKING A CAREER. THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL. MR FRANK STOCK. SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE CIVIL SERVICE CAREERS EXHIBITION JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG AND THE CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT.
"THE TERM CIVIL SERVICE IS ONE THAT TENDS TO CONJURE UP PICTURES OF THINGS THAT ARE DRY AND STAID." HE SAID.
"THE TRUTH IS THAT THE OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE: OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHALLENGE. FOR GREAT DIVERSITY OF EXPERIENCE AND OF COURSE FOR SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC."
MR STOCK SAID HE WAS DELIGHTED THAT THE EXHIBITION WAS PRESENTING A FORUM OF INFORMATION FOR YOUNG STUDENTS TO HELP THEM MARSHAL THE FACTS SO THAT THEY COULD BETTER ASSESS THEIR FUTURE CAREER PATHS.
"WE WILL I HOPE CONTINUE TO ENCOURAGE OUR YOUNG TO VIEW HONG KONG AS A PLACE OF IMMENSE CHALLENGE AS WELL AS A PLACE OF OPPORTUNITY BOTH FOR INDIVIDUAL CAREER AMBITIONS AND SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY." HE SAID.
MR STOCK SAID THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME THE THREE GOVERNMENT LEGAL SERVICES DEPARTMENTS - THE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S CHAMBERS. THE REGISTRAR GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT AND THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT - WERE PARTICIPATING IN THIS EXHIBITION.
"IN MATTERS OF CAREER GUIDANCE. THE BURDEN IS SQUARELY UPON US TO PROVIDE INFORMATION TO THOSE WHO WOULD CHOOSE A CAREER. PARTICULARLY TO THOSE WHO DO NOT KNOW WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE IN THE CIVIL SERVICE."
IN ANSWER TO QUESTIONS FROM REPORTERS AFTER THE OPENING CEREMONY. MR STOCK SAID THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT HAD BEEN MAKING A GREAT DEAL OF EFFORT TO WORK OUT WAYS OF ENCOURAGING LOCALISATION IN THE DEPARTMENT AND CERTAIN MEASURES HAD BEEN WORKED OUT TO ACHIEVE THAT OBJECTIVE.
"IT'S PERHAPS TOO EARLY TO BE CERTAIN ABOUT IT BUT THE SITUATION OF RETENTION OF OUR COUNSEL SEEMS TO BE IMPROVING AND I’M VERY HOPEFUL.
"THE FACT OF THE MATTER IS THAT WE RUN A LEGAL DEPARTMENT WHICH IS LARGE. WHICH COVERS A VERY WIDE AREA OF LEGAL EXPERIENCE.
"THE DEPTH OF EXPERIENCE IS QUITE EXTRAORDINARY AND I’M VERY HOPEFUL THAT MORE AND MORE YOUNGSTERS IN HONG KONG WILL REALISE THAT THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GAINING VALID LEGAL EXPERIENCE. INTERESTING LEGAL EXPERIENCE, ARE GREAT." MR STOCK SAID.
/ON WHETHER .....
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1$, 1989
- 25 -
ON WHETHER THE DEPARTMENT WAS SHORT OF STAFF. MR STOCK SAID THE DEPARTMENT WAS NOT PARTICULARLY SHORT OF STAFF AT PRESENT.
HE EXPLAINED THAT ACROSS THE CIVIL SERVICE AS A WHOLE. LARGE NUMBERS OF VACANT POSTS HAD BEEN CUT RECENTLY AND THIS HAD HAD ITS EFFECT ON THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT AS WITH OTHER DEPARTMENTS.
HOWEVER. IN A DEPARTMENT OF ABOUT 250 LAWYERS. THERE WAS ALWAYS A TURNOVER OF STAFF "SO THERE WILL ALWAYS RE OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNGSTERS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN A CAREER IN LAW TO JOIN US." MR STOCK SAID.
AS FOR THE WHITE BILL ON THE BILL OF RIGHTS. MR STOCK SAID MUCH HARD WORK WAS BEING DONE AND HE WAS CONFIDENT THAT THE TARGET OF PRODUCING A WHITE BILL BY THE END OF THE YEAR WOULD BE MET.
A TOTAL OF 28 GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS ARE TAKING PART IN THE TWO-AND-A-HALF-DAY EXHIBITION WHICH IS BEING HELD AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG.
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SWD EXPERIMENTS OCCASIONAL CHILD CARE PROJECT ♦ ♦ t ♦ ♦
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT IS EXPERIMENTING A PROJECT ON OCCASIONAL CHILD CARE SERVICE WITH A VIEW TO ELIMINATING THE RISK OF HAVING YOUNG CHILDREN LEFT UNATTENDED AT HOME. THE DEPARTMENT’S REGIONAL OFFICER (NEW TERRITORIES EAST). MR CARLOS LEUNG. SAID THIS (WEDNESDAY) AFTERNOON.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE KWONG FUK CHILD CARE CENTRE RUN BY THE NEW TERRITORIES WOMEN AND JUVENILES WELFARE ASSOCIATION. MR LEUNG SAID THE SERVICE AIMED AT PROVIDING SHORT TERM DAY CARE FOR CHILDREN AGED BETWEEN TWO AND SIX WHOSE CARERS HAD TO STAY AWAY FROM HOME OCCASIONALLY DUE TO SUDDEN ENGAGEMENTS AND VARIOUS COMMITMENTS.
"THESE COMMITMENTS MAY INCLUDE SUDDEN ILLNESS AND HOSPITALISATION. ESCORTING FAMILY MEMBERS FOR MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS, VISITING SICK OR IMPRISONED FAMILY MEMBERS. OR DEATH OF FAMILY MEMBERS AND RELATIVES." HE EXPLAINED.
MR LEUNG SAID THE PROJECT WAS BEING IMPLEMENTED IN TWO PHASES IN WHICH A TOTAL OF 15 DAY NURSERIES WOULD PROVIDE 105 PLACES.
"PHASE ONE OF THE PROJECT HAS STARTED ON NOVEMBER 1. THE SERVICE IS NOW BEING PROVIDED IN THREE NURSERIES IN KWUN TONG. SHAM SHUI PO AND TAI PO.
"THE SECOND PHASE WILL BEGIN NEXT MONTH WITH 12 MORE NURSERIES JOINING TH! SERVICE. THEY ARE WIDELY DISTRIBUTED IN THE TERRITORY. IN WAN CHAI. TSING YI. MONG KOK. KOWLOON CITY. WONG TAI SIN, SHA TIN, TUEN MUN, YUEN LONG. KWAI CHUNG, EASTERN, TSUEN WAN. SOUTHERN AND NORTH DISTRICTS.”
/NOTING THAT .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
24
NOTING THAT THE SERVICE WAS AVAILABLE WITHIN NORMAL HOURS OF DAY NURSERIES. MR LEUNG SAID RESIDENTS USING THE SERVICE WOULD HAVE TO PAY $20 FOR HALF-DAY AND $40 FOR WHOLE DAY SERVICE, IN ADDITION TO A $4 MEAL CHARGE PER DAY.
HOWEVER. FAMILIES IN FINANCIAL DIFFICULTY MAY APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE FROM THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
"CHILDREN WHO ARE SICK OR MENTALLY DISABLED ARE NOT COVERED BY THE PROJECT." MR LEUNG SAID.
"AS THE NUMBER OF PLACES IN EACH NURSERY IS LIMITED, REGISTRATION OR REFERRALS WILL BE ON A FIRST COME. FIRST SERVED BASIS," HE ADDED.
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GOVT ENDORSES RECOMMENDATIONS ON SIXTH FORM POLICY
*****
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER HAS ENDORSED THE RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE WORKING GROUP ON SIXTH FORM EDUCATION FOR IMPLEMENTATION SUBJECT TO THE AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE WORKING GROUP WAS ESTABLISHED IN AUGUST 1988 TO CONSIDER HOW THE EDUCATION COMMISSION’S RECOMMENDATIONS ON SIXTH FORM EDUCATION. SOME OF WHICH HAD BEEN MODIFIED IN RESPONSE TO PUBLIC COMMENTS. SHOULD BE IMPLEMENTED, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
IN ITS REPORT, THE WORKING GROUP ADDRESSED THE MANY PRACTICAL AND TECHNICAL ISSUES INVOLVED IN IMPLEMENTING THE GOVERNMENT'S POLICY ON SIXTH FORM EDUCATION WHICH WAS FIRST ANNOUNCED IN MAY 1988.
"THE GOVERNMENT HAS ACCEPTED THE WORKING GROUP’S RECOMMENDATION THAT CHINESE-MEDIUM ADVANCED LEVEL (A-LEVEL) COURSES SHOULD BE MADE AVAILABLE AS EARLY AS 1990. WITH THE FIRST CHINESE-MEDIUM A-LEVEL EXAMINATION TO BE CONDUCTED IN 1992," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THIS MEANS THAT SCHOOLS WHICH HAVE TRADITIONALLY OFFERED A SIX-YEAR SECONDARY COURSE WILL NOW BE ABLE TO OFFER THE FULL SEVEN-YEAR PROGRAMME LEADING TO A-LEVEL EXAMINATIONS IN CHINESE. THE LAST HIGHER LEVEL EXAMINATION WILL BE CONDUCTED IN 1992.
"ADDITIONAL A-LEVEL COURSES TN PRACTICAL AND TECHNICAL SUBJECTS WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE FROM 1991 ONWARDS, ENABLING PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS, WHICH AT PRESENT PROVIDE COURSES LEADING ONLY TO THE CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION. TO OFFER SIXTH FORM COURSES."
/THE GOVERNMENT .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
- 25 -
THE GOVERNMENT HAS ALSO ENDORSED THE WORKING GROUP'S RECOMMENDATION THAT THE INTERMEDIATE LEVEL (I-LEVEL) COURSES SHOULD BE RENAMED AS ADVANCED SUPPLEMENTARY LEVEL (AS-LEVEL) COURSES.
SUCH COURSES ARE NO LONGER "INTERMEDIATE" AS THEY WERE INTENDED TO BE IN THE ORIGINAL EDUCATION COMMISSION’S PROPOSAL. AS THE EXAMINATION IS NOW TO BE TAKEN AFTER TWO YEARS OF STUDY RATHER THAN AFTER ONE.
IN ADDITION, THESE COURSES ARE CONCEPTUALLY VERY CLOSE TO THE AS-LEVEL COURSES NOW BEING OFFERED IN THE UNITED KINGDOM, WHICH ARE INCREASINGLY WELL KNOWN AND ACCEPTED OVERSEAS.
THE SPOKESMAN NOTED THAT AS-LEVEL COURSES WOULD BE MADE AVAILABLE IN 1992, WITH THE FIRST AS-LEVEL EXAMINATION BEING HELD IN 1994 .
"TO ENSURE THE BROADENING OF THE SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM, A NEW AS-LEVEL SUBJECT. LIBERAL STUDIES, WILL BE INTRODUCED AS A CORE SUBJECT IN THE SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM. A MODULAR APPROACH WILL BE ADOPTED IN SYLLABUS DESIGN TO GIVE SCHOOLS A VARIETY OF TOPICS TO CHOOSE FROM.
"TWO ADDITIONAL AS LEVEL SUBJECTS. NAMELY, USE OF ENGLISH AND CHINESE LANGUAGE AND CULTURE, ARE ALSO TO BE CORE SUBJECTS IN THE SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM. THE AIM IS TO IMPROVE THE LANGUAGE SKILLS OF SIXTH FORM STUDENTS," HE ADDED.
VARIOUS MEASURES HAVE ALREADY BEEN TAKEN TO ENSURE THE SMOOTH IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SIXTH FORM POLICY.
IN THIS REGARD, THE CHINESE TEXTBOOKS COMMITTEE HAS EMBARKED ON A PROGRAMME OF IDENTIFYING AND REVIEWING REFERENCE BOOKS WRITTEN IN CHINESE SUITABLE FOR USE IN A-LEVEL COURSES; AND HANDBOOKS WITH TECHNICAL TERMS IN BOTH CHINESE AND ENGLISH FOR VARIOUS SUBJECTS TAUGHT IN THE SIXTH FORM HAVE BEEN PRODUCED FOR THE USE OF TEACHERS AND WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION BY SCHOOLS SHORTLY.
IN ADDITION, THE CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL AND THE HONG KONG EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY HAVE ENDORSED THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NUMBER OF NEW SUBJECT COMMITTEES AT THE SIXTH FORM LEVEL. BOTH THESE AND EXISTING SUBJECT COMMITTEES WILL BE PREPARING THE REQUIRED SYLLABUSES.
THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT EVERY EFFORT WOULD BE MADE TO ENSURE THAT THE TIMETABLE FOR THE CHANGES RECOMMENDED BY THE WORKING GROUP WILL BE ADHERED TO.
"SCHOOL AUTHORITIES HAVE BEEN ADVISED THAT, IN CONSIDERING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS IN THEIR SCHOOLS, THEY SHOULD TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THEIR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES, INCLUDING THE NEEDS AND ABILITIES OF THEIR SIX-FORM STUDENTS.
"THEY SHOULD FEEL FREE TO CONSULT THE RELEVANT SECTIONS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT FOR ADVICE AND ASSISTANCE." HE SAID.
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Z26........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 15. 1989
26
HE SHOULD HAVE ROLE IN REGIONAL ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION
******
HONG KONG. AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE REGIONAL ECONOMY. SHOULD HAVE A CONTRIBUTION TO MAKE AND A ROLE TO PLAY IN REGIONAL ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION. THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY. MR MICHAEL CARTLAND. SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE SEVENTH MEETING OF THE PACIFIC ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION CONFERENCE (PECC) IN AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND. MR CARTLAND SAID HONG KONG BELIEVED THAT PECC WAS AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE REGIONAL ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION AND, REGARDLESS OF HOW OTHER COMPLEMENTARY DISCUSSIONS MIGHT DEVELOP. THERE WOULD ALWAYS BE A NEED FOR THE VALUABLE ACADEMIC AND BUSINESS CONTRIBUTION THAT PECC PROVIDED.
"WE STAND READY TO PARTICIPATE IN REGIONAL ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION." HE SAID.
MR CARTLAND SAID HONG KONG HAD PARTICIPATED IN TASK FORCE WORK AND ATTENDED THE MEETING AS GUEST OBSERVERS.
HE SAID HONG KONG’S MAIN INTEREST IN THE ACTIVITIES OF PECC WAS IN THF. AREA OF TRADE POLICY.
"GIVEN HONG KONG’S EXTERNALLY-ORIENTED EXPORT-LED ECONOMY. IT IS INEVITABLE THAT WE HAVE A STRONG INTEREST IN MAINTAINING AND STRENGTHENING THE OPEN WORLD TRADING SYSTEM." HE SAID.
MR CARTLAND SAID THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S MERCHANDISE TRADE HAD GROWN RAPIDLY DURING THE 1980’S TO REACH USS127 BILLION IN 1988. REPRESENTING 2.2 PER CENT OF WORLD TRADE IN GOODS AND MAKING HONG KONG THE 11TH LARGEST TRADING ECONOMY IN THE WORLD.
"A MAJOR DETERMINANT OF HONG KONG'S SUCCESS HAS. WE BELIEVE, BEEN THE PURSUIT OF NON-INTERVENT ION 1ST FREE TRADE POLICIES.
"THERE ARE NO BARRIERS TO TRADE. NO TARIFF. NO EXCHANGE-CONTROLS: WE ARE OPEN TO INWARD AND OUTWARD INVESTMENT FLOWS AND HAVE A COMPARATIVELY UNREGULATED ENVIRONMENT FOR TRADE IN SERVICES." HE SAID.
MR CARTLAND SAID ALL OF THIS HAD CONTRIBUTED TO THE FLEXIBLE AND ADAPTABLE NATURE OF HONG KONG’S ECONOMY WHICH ADJUSTED READILY TO CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES.
HE SAID HONG KONG’S ECONOMY WAS IN A CONTINUOUS STATE OF ADJUSTMENT IN RESPONSE TO MARKET DEVELOPMENTS. COST FACTORS AND CURRENCY MOVEMENTS.
IT HAS DEMONSTRATED AN ABILITY TO DEVELOP COMPLEMENTARITIES AND A DEGREE OF INTER-DEPENDENCE WITH OTHER ECONOMIES TO THE BENEFIT OF THE REGION AS A WHOLE." HE SAID.
/"AS MUCH.......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
27
"AS MUCH AS 78 PER CENT OF HONG KONG'S TRADE IN GOODS IS WITH MEMBERS OF PECO AND THE MAIN SOURCES AND PRINCIPAL RECIPIENTS OF HONG KONG'S INWARD AND OUTWARD INVESTMENT FLOWS ARE REPRESENTED IN THIS MEETING." HE ADDED.
ON THE URUGUAY ROUND NEGOTIATIONS, MR CARTLAND SAID HONG KONG'S HIGHEST PRIORITY IN THE NEGOTIATIONS WAS TEXTILES AND THE RELATED AREAS OF SAFEGUARDS.
HE SAID HONG KONG FIRMLY BELIEVED THAT THE MULTI-FIBRE ARRANGEMENT (MFA) SHOULD BE PHASED OUT AND THE TEXTILES AND GARMENTS SECTOR BROUGHT WITHIN THE SCOPE OF STRENGTHENED GATT DISCIPLINES.
HE SAID IT WOULD BE NECESSARY FOR ALL CONCERNED TO BE ON GUARD AGAINST THE REPLACEMENT OF THE MFA BY NEW AND MORE INSIDIOUS FORMS OF PROTECTION SUCH AS THE EXTENSIVE AND INDISCRIMINATE USE OF ANTI-DUMPING.
"IT IS ALSO A PREREQUISITE THAT THERE BE A CLEAR SAFEGUARDS AGREEMENT PROVIDING FOR THE APPLICATION OF GATT-CONSISTENT MEASURES ON A STRICTLY NON-DISCRIMINATORY AND MOST FAVOURED-NATION BASIS." HE SAID.
COMMENTING ON SOME OF THE POINTS RAISED EARLIER AT THE MEETING, MR CARTLAND SAID THE LINKING OF TH! HONG KONG DOLLAR TO THE U.S. DOLLAR WAS NOT DONE FOR TRADE POLICY REASONS.
"IT WAS DONE AT A TIME OF LOW CONFIDENCE IN HONG KONG IN 1983 TO ARREST A RAPID SLIDE IN THE VALUE OF THE CURRENCY WHICH HAD PREVIOUSLY BEEN FREE FLOATING.
"THE PEG HAS BROUGHT STABILITY TO EXCHANGE RATES. THE ECONOMY HAS ADJUSTED TO THE PEG AND SPECULATIVE DEPOSITS HOPING FOR IT TO CHANGE HAVE EVAPORATED.
"WE HAVE NO INTENTION OF CHANGING IT." HE SAID.
IN RESPONSE TO THE ECONOMIC FORECAST CONTAINED IN PECC'S PACIFIC ECONOMIC OUTLOOK. MR CARTLAND SAID THE FORECAST ABOUT THE ECONOMIC SITUATION IN HONG KONG FAILED TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF THE STEADY RECOVERY THAT HAD TAKEN PLACE IN RECENT MONTHS.
HE SAID THE PROPERTY MARKET IN HONG KONG REALISTIC LEVELS. HAVING LOST SOME OF THE EXCESSIVE THAT WAS EVIDENT EARLY IN THE YEAR.
HAD ADJUSTED AT SPECULATIVE HEAT
"BANKING BUSINESS IN HONG KONG IS BEING CARRIED OUT NORMALLY. EXPORTS CONTINUED TO SHOW POSITIVE GROWTH IN THE THIRD QUARTER.
THE FINANCIAL SYSTEM. STRENGTHENED BY REFORMS INTRODUCED SINCE THE OCTOBER '87 CRASH. HAS SHOWN NO SIGNS OF REAL STRAIN. THE EXCHANGE RATE, THANKS TO THE U.S. DOLLAR LINK, HAS REMAINED STABLE.
"THERE HAS BEEN LITTLE INTERRUPTION IN THE FLOW OF GOODS TRAFFIC ACROSS THE BORDER.
"UNEMPLOYMENT REMAINS AT 1.1 PER CENT IN THE THIRD QUARTER WHICH IS VIRTUALLY FULL EMPLOYMENT." HE SAID.
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/28 .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
- 28 -
HE HAS PROPOSED GATT ANTI-DUMPING CODE
*****
HONG KONG HAS TAKEN TH! VERY POSITIVE STEP OF PROPOSING. IN THE CURRENT URUGUAY ROUND N1 iQTIATIONS. THE STRENGTHENING OF THE GENERAL AGREEMENT ON TARIFFS AND TRADE (GATT) ANTI-DUMPING CODE.
THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR T.H. BARMA, SAID THIS AT THE OPENING OF THE INTERSTOFF ASIA 1989 TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR BARMA SAID THAT HONG KONG WAS A STAUNCH SUPPORTER AND PRACTITIONER OF FREE TRADE PRINCIPLES AS ENSHRINED IN THE GATT AND IT DID NOT CONDONE GENUINE DUMPING. WHICH WAS AN UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICE CLEARLY DEFINED IN THE GATT.
NOTING THAT ONE OF THE PRODUCTS BEING OFFERED IN THE •EXHIBITION WAS DENIM, HE SAID HONG KONG WAS CURRENTLY PLAGUED BY A SPATE OF ANTI-DUMPING PROCEEDINGS ON ITS PRODUCTS. AND, UNFORTUNATELY, DENIM CLOTH WAS ONE OF THE PRODUCTS BEING TARGETTED FOR ANTI-DUMPING ACTION.
"WE IN HONG KONG ARE MOST PERPLEXED AND PERTURBED BY SUCH ACCUSATIONS OF DUMPING," HE SAID.
MR BARMA POINTED OUT THAT THE LATEST ANTI-DUMPING MEASURES APPEARED TO BE TINTED WITH PROTECTIONIST SENTIMENTS.
"IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE TRADING WORLD SHOULD GUARD AGAINST THE USE OF SUCH MEASURES AS NEW BARRIERS TO TRADE." HE SAID.
ON HONG KONG’S GARMENT INDUSTRY. MR BARMA SAID THE TERRITORY WAS NOW THE WORLD’S THIRD LARGEST GARMENT EXPORTER AFTER ITALY AND KOREA.
OVER THE YEARS. HONG KONG GARMENTS HAVE ATTAINED A REPUTATION OF HAVING INNOVATIVE DESIGNS AND HIGH QUALITY," HE SAID.
HE ALSO NOTED THAT HONG KONG, BEING AN OPEN ECONOMY, FREE OF TARIFF OR NON-TARIFF BARRIERS. HAD ALWAYS BEEN INTERESTED IN EXPANDING ITS MARKETS AND BUYING MATERIALS FROM THE BEST SOURCES ALL OVER THE WORLD.
THE CHOICE OF HONG KONG AS A VENUE OF THIS EXHIBITION IS THEREFORE MOST APPROPRIATE." HE ADDED.
OVER 200 FABRIC MANUFACTURERS FROM 23 COUNTRIES ARE TAKING
PART IN THE INTERSTOFF ASIA 1989 EXHIBITION.
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/29 .......
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 15. 1989
- 29 -
PAC HEARING NEXT WEEK * t ♦
AN OPEN HEARING OF THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE WILL BE HELD NEXT WEEK FOLLOWING THE TABLING OF THE REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF AUDIT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE REPORT IS ON THE ACCOUNTS OF THE GOVERNMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31 AND THE RESULTS OF VALUE FOR MONEY AUDITS.
THE HEARING WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER ON THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 23. THE MORNING SESSION WILL RUN FROM 9.30 AM TO 12.45 PM, AND THE AFTERNOON SESSION FROM 2.30 PM TO 4.30 PM.
CONTROLLING OFFICERS WILL APPEAR BEFORE THE COMMITTEE IN RELATION TO POINTS MADE IN THE REPORT.
-----0-----
DECREASE IN AVERAGE TAR YIELD OF CIGARETTES * * ♦ * ♦
THE AVERAGE TAR YIELD AMONG THE 106 TOP BEST-SELLING CIGARETTES IN’ HONG KONG HAS DECREASED BY 1.3 PER CENT TO 14.8 MG/CIGARETTE COMPARED WITH THE FIGURE OF 15.0 MG/CIGARETTE IN THE LAST ANALYSTS. ACCORDING TO THE LATEST (13TH) SIX-MONTH REVIEW OF TAR AND N I COT I NT YIELDS OF CIGARETTES RELEASED BY THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
FIGURES FROM RECENT SURVEYS SHOW A CONTINUED DECLINE IN THE AVERAGE TAR YIELDS OF CIGARETTES.
NO ‘HIGH TAR" CIGARETTES I THAT IS THOSE WITH A TAR CONTENT OF 29 MG AND ABOVE) WERE FOUND IN Till PRESENT SURVEY AND THE NUMBER OF BRANDS OF CIGARETTES CLASSIFIED AS ’’LOW TAR” CIGARETTES INCREASED FROM 20 IN Till LAST SURVEY TO 25 IN THE PRESENT SURVEY.
"THE RESULTS SEEM TO CONFIRM THE TREND OF CONSUMER PREFERENCE FOR LOW TAR CIGARETTES.” A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
"BUT LOK TAR CIGARETTES ARI’ STILL HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH,” HE ADDED.
ON I'HI OTHER HAND. THE AVERAGE NICOTINE YIELD OF CIGARETTES HAS RISEN BY 3.2 PER CENT TO 1.29 MG/CIGARETTE WHEN COMPARED WITH 1.25 MG/CIGARETTE IN THE LAST SURVEY.
"NICOTINI IS ADDICT1VI AND CREATES DEPENDENT’! ON TOBACCO.” THE SPOKESMAN SAID. WE ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE INCREASE IN NICOTINE YIELDS IN TWO CONSECUTIVE SURVEYS.”
/THE HONG
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1989
THE HONG KONG COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH HAS PROPOSED. IN ITS PACKAGE OF RECOMMENDATIONS TO Till GOVERNMENT. AN IMMEDIATE CEILING OF 1.2 MG/CIGARETTE FOR NICOTINE AND 18 MG/CI.GARETTE FOR TAR.
"A GOVERNMENT DECISION WILL SOON BE MADE ON THIS RECOMMENDATION IN THE LIGHT OF OPINIONS EXPRESSED DURING A PUBLIC CONSULTATION EXERCISE CONDUCTED EARLIER THIS YEAR."
A FULL REPORT OF THE GOVERNMENT’S FINDINGS HAS BEEN IN THE LATEST EDITION OF ’’CHOICE" MAGAZINE.
PUBLISHED
-------0----------
11.000 VISIT EXHIBITION ON EMPLOYMENT OF THE DISABLED
MORE THAN 11.000 PEOPLE HAVE VISITED AN EXHIBITION ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TO INTRODUCE THE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND WORKING ABILITIES OF THE DISABLED.
OPENED LAST FRIDAY. THE WEEK-LONG EXHIBITION IS BEING ORGANISED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S SELECTIVE PLACEMENT DIVISION AT THE NEW WORLD PLAZA IN TSIM SHA TSUI UNTIL TOMORROW (THURSDAY). OPENING HOURS ARE FROM 10 AM TO 6.30 PM.
VISITORS WILL BE ABLE TO SEE HOW DISABLED PEOPLE ARE PLACED IN OPEN EMPLOYMENT AND TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THEIR POTENTIAL WORKING ABILITIES.
THE EXHIBITION ALSO DEPICTS THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING. JOB ASSESSMENT AND EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES PROVIDED BY THE TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND INDUSTRIAL TRAINING DEPARTMENT.
THERE ARE ALSO A DISPLAY OF DIFFERENT EMPLOYMENT AIDS AND EQUIPMENT SPECIALLY DESIGNED TO HELP THE DISABLED AT WORK, JOB-MATCHING BY COMPUTER, A COMPUTER QUESTION-AND-ANSWER GAME BOOTH AND LIVE WORK DEMONSTRATIONS BY DISABLED WORKERS.
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LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PROJECTS ON DB AGENDA
♦ * t * t
THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE STUDIES AND PROJECTS BEING UNDERTAKEN BY THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (LDC) AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE LDC. MR ABRAHJM RAZACK, WILL ATTEND THE MEETING AND ANSWER QUESTIONS.
/MEMBERS WILL
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 198?
- 31
MEMBERS WILL CONSIDER A PAPER ON THE REVISED LAYOUT OF THE PLANNED PARKLAND AND INDOOR GAMES HALL ON THE WESTERN RECLAMATION.
THEY WILL ALSO EXPRESS VIEWS ON THE VARIOUS OPTIONS FOR THE FUTURE USE OF THE FORMER WEST:KN MARKET BUILDING.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD MEETING WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN ROOM 1416, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL.
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DISTRICT FESTIVAL CIVIC EDUCATION EXHIBITION *****
A CIVIC EDUCATION EXHIBIT!* N WILL BE HELD IN WONG TAI SIN. BEGINNING ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 17). AS PART OF THE CURRENT WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
ORGANISED BY THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL. THE EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD AT THE LOK FU SHOPPING CENTRE UNTIL NOVEMBER 21 (TUESDAY). IT WILL THEN BE MOVED TO THE WONG TAI SIN COMMERCIAL CENTRE ON NOVEMBER 22 BEFORE CLOSING ON NOVEMBER 24.
THE EXHIBITION WILL ENABLE RESIDENTS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THEIR DISTRICT WHILE FOSTERING A GREATER SENSE OF BELONGING AMONG THEM, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE EXHIBITION IS DIVIDED INTO TWO SECTIONS, ONE ON THE PEOPLE’S RIGHTS AND THE OTHER ON THE PAST. PRESENT AND FUTURE OF WONG TAI SIN.
THE "PEOPLE’S RIGHTS” SECTION WAS PRODUCED BY THE LAW SOCIETY OF THE UNVIERSITY OF HONG KONG. THE PRESENTATION HAS WON THE OUTSTANDING AWARD IN THE 1988-89 CIVIC EDUCATION ACTIVITIES PROJECTS COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE CIVIC EDUCATION COMMITTEE.
THROUGH THE PHOTOGRAPHS AND CARTOONS ON DISPLAY, RESIDENTS WILL LEARN MORE ABOUT THEIR RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS, AND THE LAWS OF SOCIETY.
THE SECTION ON WONG TAI SIN WILL INTRODUCE THE HISTORY OF HOUSING AND TRAFFIC MATTERS IN THE DISTRICT. THEIR PRESENT SITUATION AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS.
/AN OPENING .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15. 1989
AN OPENING CEREMONY OF THE EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD ON FRIDAY AT NOON. OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING WILL BE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT SCHOOL LIAISON COMMITTEE, MR ALBERT LI; CHIEF HOUSING MANAGER FOR HONG KONG ISLAND AND KOWLOON CENTRAL. MR CHOI KEI-WONG: AND PRESIDENT OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MR CHOW WING-TUNG.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL CIVIC EDUCATION EXHIBITION TO BE HELD AT NOON ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 17) AT THE LOK FU _ SHOPPING CENTRE.
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FOUR GOVERNMENT LAND LOTS TO LET BY TENDER
* t t * »
THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR SHORT-TERM TENANCIES OF FOUR SITES ON HONG KONG ISLAND AND IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
TWO LOTS AT AP LET CHAU WEST. MEASURING 5.538 SQUARE METRES AND 5.756 SQUARE MITRES RESPECTIVELY. ARE TO BE USED FOR THE OPEN STORAGE OF TENANT'S GOODS AND INCLUDING MOTOR VEHICLES.
THE TENANCIES ARE FOR ONE YEAR. RENEWABLE QUARTERLY AFTERWARDS.
A 2.550 SQUARE-METRE LOT IN AREA 1. TSING YI ISLAND. IS FOR OPEN STORAGE OF TENANT’S GOODS (EXCLUDING STORAGE OF CONTAINERS).
THE TENANCY IS FOR THREE YEARS. RENEWABLE QUARTERLY AFTERWARDS.
THF OTHER LOT IS IN AREA 3. TSUI LAM. TSEUNG KWAN O. AND HAS AN AREA OF 1.359 SQUARE METRES. IT IS FOR A PUBLIC CARPARK.
THE TENANCY IS FOR ONE YEAR. RENEWABLE QUARTERLY AFTERWARDS.
THE CLOSING DATE FOR TENDERS FOR THE FOUR SITES IS NOON ON DECEMBER 1 .
_--------o -----------
/33........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 15, 1989
- 33 -
TEMPORARY RE-ROL’TEING OF DOUGLAS STREET IN CENTRAL * ♦ * * *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 17). DOUGLAS STREET BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL AND DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL WILL BE RE-ROUTED FROM ONE-WAY SOUTHBOUND TO TWO-WAY CUL-DE-SAC WITH ACCESS FROM DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL.
THE RE-ROUTETNG WILL LAST FOR ABOUT 10 WEEKS TO FACILITATE ROAD RECONSTRUCTION WORK.
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TEMPORARY URBAN CLEARWAY IN WATER STREET IN WESTERN
******
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY I NOVEMBER 17). THE WESTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF WATER STREET IN WESTERN DISTRICT BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST AND DES VOEUX ROAD WEST WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY ROUND-THE-CLOCK.
THIS MEASURE WILL LAST FOR ABOUT FOUR WEEKS TO FACILITATE ROAD RECONSTRUCTION WORKS.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS AT AIRPORT *****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 17). THE SECTION OF THE SOUTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY WHICH LINKS THE FLYOVER LEADING FROM PRINCE EDWARD ROAD EAST EASTBOUND WITH THE EASTERN END OF DEPARTURES CIRCUIT WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY 24 HOURS DAILY.
WITHIN THE RESTRICTED ZONE. ALL MOTOR VEHICLES. EXCEPT THOSE WITH PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT. WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM STOPPING FOR PASSENGERS AND GOODS.
AT THE SAME TIME. THE EXISTING URBAN CLEARWAY FOR GOODS VEHICLES EFFECTIVE 24 HOURS DAILY ON THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF THE DEPARTURES CIRCUIT WILL BE EXTENDED WESTWARDS FOR ABOUT 14 METRES.
WITHIN THE RESTRICTED ZONE. ALL GOODS VEHICLES. EXCEPT THOSE WITH PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT. WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM STOPPING FOR PASSENGERS AND GOODS.
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/?*»...........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 15, 1989
URBAN CLEARWAY IN SHAM SHU] PO t t * * »
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 171. THE WESTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF MEI LAI ROAD IN SHAM SHUI PO BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH NASSAN STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 40 MFTRFS NORTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY FROM 7 AM TO 10 AM AND FROM 4 PM TO 7 PM DAILY.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.
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LANE CLOSURE ON TUEN MUN ROAD tilt
THI TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT THF THREE TRAFFIC 1ANES OF THE TUEN MUN BOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF TUEN MUN ROAD NEAR ITS JUNCTION WITH TSUEN WAN ROAD WILL BE PARTIALLY CLOSED IN TURN FROM 8 PM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 17) TO 8 PM ON NOVEMBER 25.
THE CLOSURE IS TO FACILITATE ROAD MAINTENANCE WORKS.
CLOSURE OF TWO TRAFFIC LANES WILL ONLY BE IMPLEMENTED IN THE NIGHT TIME (8 PM TO 7 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY). ONE TRAFFIC LANE WILL BE CLOSED FOR THE REST OF THE CLOSURE PERIOD.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GALlANTRY AWARDS FOR J MEN IN AIRPORT RESCUE.................. 1
"INSURANCE POLICY" FOR HK PEOPLE WELCOMED: SIR DAVID FORD ... 2
QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN MANUFACTURING AN IMPORTANT CHALLENGE . J
DEVELOPMENT DECISIONS ENHANCE HK'S POSITION: TSAO............. 4
GOVT TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS ...................... 5
HONG KONG TO HOLD MAJOR YOUTH FESTIVAL ....................... 6
HAPPY HOME IMPORTANT IN RAISING CHILDREN: LADY WILSON......... 3
HEALTH EXHIBITION AT CITY HALL ............................... 9
877M TO IMPROVE DRAINAGE IN NORTHWEST NT...................... 10
PERCUSSIVE PILING NOISE CONTROLS TAKE EFFECT TOMORROW ........ 11
MARGINAL DECLINE IN TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS ........................ 11
WORKING GROUP ON ELDERLY COMMUNITY EDUCATION BEING PLANNED .. 1J FINALISTS SELECTED FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS' AWARDS ............... 14
DISTRICT FESTIVAL BADMINTON MATCH ............................ 15
SPECIAL DB MEETING ON BUILDING DEMOLITION .................... 16
COMMUNITY NEEDS WHOLE RANGE OF TALENTS ....................... 1?
1989 HK ANNUAL DIGEST OF STATISTICS ON SALE................... 17
DB COMMITTEE TO BE BRIEFED ON PROGRESS OF CONTROL SCHEME .... 18
FAMILY FUN DAY IN STANLEY ON SUNDAY........................... 18
FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION SCHOOLS PRAISED................... 19
NEW EMPLOYMENT OFFICE OPENS IN KWAI CHUNG .................... 20
DEPT OF HEALTH REGIONAL OFFICE ON MOVE........................ 20
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN TSUEN WAN ............................ 21
URBAN CLEARWAYS IN KWUN TONG, KCWLOON CITY ................... 21
NIGHT CLOSURE OF UNDERPASS IN HUNG HOM........................ 22
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
GALLANTRY AWARDS FOR 3 MEN IN AIRPORT RESCUE
*****
THE QUEEN HAS APPROVED AWARDS FOR GALLANTRY AND BRAVE CONDUCT TO TWO FIREMEN AND A CIVILIAN WHO TOOK PART IN THE RESCUE OPERATION FOLLOWING THE CRASH OF AN AIRLINER AT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ON AUGUST 31 LAST YEAR.
THE QUEEN’S GALLANTRY MEDAL HAS BEEN AWARDED TO FIREMAN LI TIM-SHING AND TO FIREMAN LUI TAK-WAH.
THE QUEEN’S COMMENDATION FOR BRAVE CONDUCT HAS BEEN AWARDED TO MR WONG KWAI-LEUNG, WHO WAS A PASSENGER ON THE CAAC TRIDENT JET.
THE ACCIDENT HAPPENED AT ABOUT 9.20 AM AS THE JETLINER WAS LANDING AT KAI TAK, ON A FLIGHT FROM CANTON. IT WAS CARRYING 11 CREW AND 78 PASSENGERS.
THE AIRCRAFT PLUNGED INTO THE KOWLOON BAY NULLAH WITH A FIRE IN THE TAIL SECTION, WHICH CAME TO REST ON THE SEAWALL. THE FUSELAGE SECTION JUST FORWARD OF THE WINGS RUPTURED AND THE NOSE SECTION OF THE AIRCRAFT WAS SUBMERGED.
FIREMAN LI TOOK AN ACTIVE PART IN RESCUING THE OCCUPANTS OF THE CRASHED AIRCRAFT. AT THAT POINT IN TIME, THE FIRE IN THE NO. 2 ENGINE IN THE TAIL SECTION WAS STILL BURNING AS IT COULD NOT BE REACHED BY THE JETS FROM THE FIRE APPLIANCES ON LAND. THE FIRE POSED A SERIOUS THREAT AS IT COULD HAVE TRIGGERED AN EXPLOSION FROM THE SPILLED AVIATION FUEL IN THE VICINITY.
FIREMAN LI TOOK A HOSE LINE FROM THE SHORE AND SWAM TO THE AIRCRAFT. WITH THE HELP OF A COLLEAGUE HE MANAGED TO CLIMB UP THE VERY HOT AND SLIPPERY REAR FUSELAGE AND SUCCESSFULLY EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THIS WAS A MAJOR FACTOR IN THE RESCUE OPERATION AND FIREMAN LI SHOWED EXCEPTIONAL COURAGE AND SKILL.
MEANWHILE, FIREMAN LUI. HAVING HELPED TO RESCUE TWO PASSENGERS TRAPPED IN THEIR SEATS, ATTEMPTED TO GAIN ACCESS TO THE SUBMERGED COCKPIT.
THIS WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT BECAUSE THE PASSAGE TO THE COCKPIT WAS OBSTRUCTED BY SHARP DEBRIS, WIRING AND OTHER WRECKAGE, AND THE ALMOST TOTAL LACK OF VISIBILITY IN THE MURKY WATER. IN ADDITION. THERE WAS THE EVER PRESENT RISK OF EXPLOSION FROM THE BURNING NO. 2 ENGINE.
FIREMAN LUI EVENTUALLY MANAGED TO ENTER THE COCKPIT AND RECOVER THE SIX CREW MEMBERS WHO HAD BEEN IN THE COCKPIT. ALL SIX WERE DEAD.
/TO WORK .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
2
TO WORK IN THE CONFINED SPACE OF THE COCKPIT IN CONDITIONS OF NO VISIBILITY, FIREMAN LUI HAD TO HOLD HIS DIVING HARNESS AND AIR SUPPLY IN ONE HAND. IN SO DOING HE DISPLAYED CONSPICUOUS COURAGE AND SKILL AS HE COULD HAVE BEEN TRAPPED AT ANY TIME BY WRECKAGE OR HIS BREATHING TUBE CUT BY THE SHARP DEBRIS.
MR WONG HAD MANAGED. AFTER THE CRASH, TO OPEN AN EXIT DOOR AND ASSISTED SOME OF HIS FELLOW PASSENGERS FROM THE AIRCRAFT. THEN, DESPITE INJURIES SUSTAINED IN THE CRASH. HE HELPED SEVERAL MORE PASSENGERS TO SWIM ASHORE.
BY STAYING IN THE VICINITY OF THE AIRCRAFT WHEN THERE WAS A HIGH RISK OF EXPLOSION MR WONG SHOWED BRAVERY AND PUBLIC SPIRITEDNESS OF A HIGH ORDER.
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"INSURANCE POLICY" FOR HK PEOPLE WELCOMED: SIR DAVID FORD *****
THE GOVERNMENT WOULD WARMLY WELCOME ASSISTANCE FROM OVERSEAS COUNTRIES IN GIVING HONG KONG PEOPLE THE RIGHT TO ENTER THOSE COUNTRIES BUT ALLOWING THEM TO REMAIN IN HONG KONG, THE DEPUTY TO THE GOVERNOR. SIR DAVID FORD SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SIR DAVID WAS SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER OFFICIATING AT THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY OF THE HONG KONG ARTICLE NUMBERING ASSOCIATION.
"I THINK THE MORE PEOPLE WHO ARE ENCOURAGED TO STAY HERE IN HONG KONG AND WORK FOR HONG KONG BUT HAVING SOME INSURANCE POLICY THAT ENABLES THEM TO LEAVE, IF THEY FEEL THEY HAVE TO, THAT WILL IN DEED HELP HONG KONG’S CONFIDENCE. AND CERTAINLY WE WILL ENCOURAGE OTHER COUNTRIES TO DO SOMETHING ALONG THOSE SAME LINES AS WE HOPE THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT IS GOING TO DO SHORTLY," HE SAID.
ASKED TO COMMENT ON A US PROPOSAL TO INCREASE ITS IMMIGRATION QUOTA FOR PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, SIR DAVID SAID THE QUESTION OF WHETHER OVERSEAS COUNTRIES SHOULD INCREASE THEIR IMMIGRATION QUOTAS WAS A MATTER FOR THE COUNTRIES CONCERNED.
THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT WOULD NOT IN ANY WAY TRY TO INTERFERE, HE ADDED.
SIR DAVID DID NOT THINK THE CHANGES WOULD INCREASE THE BRAIN DRAIN PROBLEM IF PEOPLE WERE ALLOWED TO STAY HERE BUT WITH THE RIGHT TO ENTER SOMEWHERE ELSE.
"OF COURSE, IF THE IMMIGRATION QUOTAS ARE INCREASED ON A NORMAL BASIS, THAT COULD IN DEED PULL MORE PEOPLE OUT OF HONG KONG," HE NOTED.
ASKED IF INCREASED IMMIGRATION QUOTAS WOULD IRRITATE THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT, SIR DAVID SAID: ”1 DON’T THINK THERE ARE ANY INDICATIONS AS IT WOULD TN ANY WAY IRRITATE THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT. CERTAINLY WE HAVE NO SUCH INDICATION."
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
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QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN MANUFACTURING AN IMPORTANT CHALLENGE * * * * »
THE 1990’S WILL BE AN EVENTFUL DECADE FOR HONG KONG AND ITS INDUSTRIES AND QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN MANUFACTURING MAY PROVE TO BE ONE OF THE MORE IMPORTANT CHALLENGES.
THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR T.H. BARMA, SAID THIS AT THE OPENING OF THE TOTAL QUALITY CONFERENCE TODAY (THURSDAY).
HE SAID THE GOVERNMENT FIRMLY BELIEVED THAT THE QUEST FOR IMPROVED QUALITY, LEADING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT APPROACH, MIGHT PROVE TO BE ONE OF MORE DECISIVE FACTORS IN DETERMINING THE FUTURE SUCCESS OF HONG KONG'S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES.
MR BARMA SAID HONG KONG’S PAST SUCCESS HAD RELIED HEAVILY ON LOW VALUE ADDED, HIGH VOLUME PRODUCTION OR ON SUBCONTRACTING WORK AT A RELATIVELY LOW TECHNOLOGY LEVEL, BUT DUE TO RISING LAND AND LABOUR COSTS, THESE TYPES OF LABOUR INTENSIVE PROCESSES AND PRODUCTION COULD NOT BE SUSTAINED IN HONG KONG.
"IT IS PERHAPS SIGNIFICANT THAT ALL RECENT STUDIES THAT HAVE BFEN UNDERTAKEN IN RESPECT OF OUR MAJOR INDUSTRIES HAVE INDICATED THAI IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN OUR PAST MANUFACTURING SUCCESS AND GROWTH RATE, INDUSTRIES THAT REMAIN AND HOPE TO SURVIVE AND THRIVE IN HONG KONG MUST MOVE 'UP MARKET'. NOT ONLY IN THE TECHNOLOGY THEY EMPLOY BUT ALSO IN THE QUALITY OF GOODS THEY PRODUCE.
"HONG KONG MUST THEREFORE IMPROVE ITS IMAGE AS A SOURCE OF QUALITY PRODUCTS." HE SAID.
MR BARMA SAID THF THEME OF THE CONFERENCE EMPHASISED THAT IN THE PURSUIT OF QUALITY IN MANUFACTURING THERE WAS A VITAL NEED FOR COMPANY WIDE PARTICIPATION. WITH THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE HAVING THE MAIN RESPONSIBILITY IN TERMS OF COMMITMENT AND ACTIVE INVOLVEMENT IN THE QUALITY PLAN.
"THE RECENTLY ANNOUNCED GOVERNMENT INITIATIVE IN TERMS OF AN OVERALL QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME FOR THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES EMPHASISES THIS ESSENTIAL NEED BY TARGETTING THE PROPOSED QUALITY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN PRIMARILY AT DECISION MAKERS IN MANUFACTURING COMPANIES," HE SAID.
MR BARMA POINTED OUT THAT THE PRINCIPAL MESSAGE WOULD BE THAT THE INTRODUCTION OF’ A WELL STRUCTURED QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF THF COMPANY’S BUSINESS PLAN WOULD HELP REDUCE COSTS, IMPROVE OUTPUT AND SECURE MARKETS.
"THE CAMPAIGN IS SCHEDULED FOR ITS INAUGURAL LAUNCH ON MARCH 1, 1990," HE SAID.
/HE ALSO .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
4
HE ALSO SAID THAT ANOTHER ELEMENT IN THE GOVERNMENT'S OVERALL QUALITY PROGRAMME WOULD BE THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN ACCREDITATION SCHEME FOR QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS BASED ON THE ISO 9000 SERIES OF STANDARDS.
"AN INDEPENDENT ORGANISATION - THE HONG KONG QUALITY ASSURANCE AGENCY - HAS RECENTLY BEEN ESTABLISHED UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE.
^r~
"THE AGENCY WILL CONDUCT ASSESSMENTS OF FACTORIES, AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS TO GOVERNMENT FOR THE AWARD OF ACCREDITATION," HE SAID.
MR BARMA STRESSED THAT THE GOVERNMENT ALSO RECOGNISED THE IMPORTANCE OF SOUND EDUCATION AND TRAINING IN QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND THESE WOULD BE KEY ELEMENTS IN THE NEW QUALITY INITIATIVE.
"THE TERTIARY EDUCATION SECTOR WILL HAVE A KEY ROLE IN PROVIDING THIS KNOWLEDGE BY THE DEVELOPMENT OF APPROPRIATE COURSES, HE ADDED.
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DEVELOPMENT DECISIONS ENHANCE HK’S POSITION: TSAO
*****
HONG KONG’S POSITION AS A WORLD AND REGIONAL ECONOMIC POWERHOUSE, AND ITS SPECIAL ROLE AS CHINA'S DEVELOPMENT CATALYST, WILL BE FURTHER ENHANCED BY THE DECISIONS RECENTLY TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT ON FUTURE INFRASTRUCTURE, THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS (DESIGNATE), MR PETER TSAO, SAID.
SPEAKING AT THE WORLD FORUM OF SILICON VALLEY HELD AT SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA. YESTERDAY (WEDNESDAY), MR TSAO TOLD AN AUDIENCE OF BUSINESS, CULTURAL AND ACADEMIC LEADERS OF AN ENORMOUS PROGRAMME OF WORKS WHICH WOULD COST SOME USS 16 BILLION AND TAKE AT LEAST A DECADE TO IMPLEMENT IN FULL.
"WE ARE ALSO TAKING STEPS TO BUILD UP OUR 'HUMAN INFRASTRUCTURE’," HE SAID. POINTING OUT THAT THIS WOULD BE FACILITATED BY THE NEW HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION, TOGETHER WITH EXPANSION OF EXISTING INSTITUTIONS.
"SO WHATEVER ROLE HISTORY CALLS ON US TO PERFORM, HONG KONG WILL BE READY TO FULFIL ITS DESTINY," HE SAID.
ON THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG, MR TSAO SAID IT WAS WORTH REMEMBERING THAT HONG KONG HAD ALWAYS LED A PRECARIOUS EXISTENCE.
"OUR EXISTENCE MAY BE PRECARIOUS, OUR ABILITY TO ADAPT AND BOUNCE BACK IS TRULY LEGENDARY." HE SAID.
/"THE MAIN ........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
"THE MAIN REASON FOR HONG KONG PEOPLE'S RESILIENCE IS ECONOMIC: WE HAVE THE INFRASTRUCTURE, THE COMMUNICATIONS, THE FINANCIAL AND COMMERCIAL EXPERTISE AND THE CONNECTIONS.
"WE HAVE AN INCREASINGLY WELL-EDUCATED AND ADAPTABLE WORKFORCE FAMILIAR WITH THE DEMANDS OF HIGH-TECH PROCESSES.
"WE HAVE BEEN ONE OF THE GREAT MANUFACTURING AND TRADING CENTRES OF THE REGION, AND HAVE PLAYED AN ACTIVE PART IN THE REGION’S DEVELOPMENT OF THE PACIFIC RIM," HE SAID.
MR TSAO NOTED THAT HONG KONG’S DEVELOPMENTS IN THE PAST DECADE HAD BEEN CLOSELY RELATED TO THOSE IN CHINA, IN PARTICULAR GUANGDONG PROVINCE.
"AROUND 70 PER CENT OF CROSS-BORDER INVESTMENT IN GUANGDONG IS HONG KONG CAPITAL. HONG KONG INDUSTRIAL CONCERNS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE EMPLOYMENT OF AROUND TWO MILLION WORKERS IN THE PEARL RIVER DELTA ALONE.
"IT IS OF MUTUAL BENEFIT TO GUANGDONG AND HONG KONG TO MAINTAIN CLOSE RELATIONSHIP," HE SAID.
HE WENT ON TO SAY THAT JUDGING FROM HISTORY, CHINA WOULD ALWAYS TAKE STRONG AND EFFECTIVE MEASURES TO BOLSTER HONG KONG.
HE SAID THERE WERE VARIOUS THEORIES AS TO PRECISELY HOW AND WHY BUT WHATEVER THEORY ONE CHOSE, THE RESULT WAS ALWAYS THE SAME.
"CHINA TREASURES A USEFUL HONG KONG. CONTINUING TO BE USEFUL TO CHINA IS THE BEST GUARANTEE OF OUR SURVIVAL.
"I AM CONFIDENT THAT AS TIME GOES BY THE FACTORS WHICH HAVE MADE HONG KONG THE EXTRAORDINARILY SUCCESSFUL CITY WHICH IT IS TODAY WILL PREVAIL," HF. SAID.
AT PRESENT ON A DUTY VISIT OVERSEAS. MR TSAO HAS VISITED TOKYO AND VANCOUVER. HE WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON SATURDAY.
-------------------0------- GOVT TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS t * t « »
THE GOVERNMENT, IN RECENT MONTHS, HAS BECOME MUCH MORE ACTIVE IN PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS AMONGST THE COMMUNITY, THE DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, DR STUART REED, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY),
SPEAKING AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF HONG KONG HARBOUR, DR REED SAID RESIDENTS SHOULD BE SEEING ON TV SCREENS THIS EVENING THE FIRST OF A NUMBER OF ITEMS AIMED AT GETTING THE COMMUNITY TO FOCUS ON THE HARM THEY WERE DOING THEMSELVES BY UNNECESSARILY POLLUTING THE ENVIRONMENT.
/"TONIGHT'S TV .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
6
’’TONIGHT’S TV ITEM IS CONCERNED WITH WATER POLLUTION AND IT WILL BE FOLLOWED AT INTERVALS OF A FEW WEEKS BY SIMILAR ONES ON NOISE AND ON AIR POLLUTION.
"IT IS HOPED THAT THESE ITEMS, COMPLEMENTED BY ITEMS ON THE RADIO, WILL SHOCK THE COMMUNITY INTO REALISING THE SERIOUSNESS OF WHAT THEY THEMSELVES ARE DOING TO THE ENVIRONMENT, TO THEIR OWN HEALTH AND TO THE HEALTH OF THEIR CHILDREN," HF SAID.
THIS NEW CAMPAIGN INVOLVED A SUM OF Si MILLION.
"IF OUR TV CAMPAIGN IS SUCCESSFUL TN MAKING PEOPLE REALISE THE GRAVITY OF THE SITUATION, THEN THAT WILL BE AN ESSENTIAL AND IMPORTANT STEP FORWARD," DR REED SAID.
"BECAUSE THIS AWARENESS SHOULD, AT THE VERY LEAST, HELP TO PROVIDE THE COMMUNITY BACKING FOR THE MANY ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMMES SET OUT IN THE WHITE PAPER ON POLLUTION," HE SAID.
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HONG KONG TO HOLD MAJOR YOUTH FESTIVAL ♦ ♦ » » »
A TERRITORY-WIDE YOUTH FESTIVAL, WHICH WILL LAST A MONTH, WILL BE HELD FOR THE FIRST TIME IN HONG KONG NEXT MONTH.
IT WILL BEGIN ON DECEMBER 1.
THE FESTIVAL HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL COMMITTEE ON YOUTH WITH A VIEW TO MAKING THE PUBLIC MORE AWARE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER AND BALANCED YOUTH DEVELOPMENT, AND INSTILLING IN YOUNG PEOPLE A SENSE OF COMMITMENT TO BUILDING A BETTER COMMUNITY.
VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, VOLUNTARY AGENCIES. YOUTH ORGANISATIONS. UNIFORMED GROUPS AND DISTRICT BODIES HAVE ARRANGED MORE THAN 250 DIFFERENT EVENTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.
THEIR WORK HAS BEEN CO-ORDINATED BY A SPECIAL FESTIVAL WORKING GROUP.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE ON YOUTH FESTIVAL. MR ERIC LI. SAID AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT ALL EVENTS WOULD CENTRE AROUND THE THEME OF THE YOUTH FESTIVAL — "WE ARE HONG KONG".
"THE THEME VIVIDLY PORTRAYS A GROUP OF YOUNG PEOPLE STANDING IN UNITY AND PREPARING THEMSELVES FOR BUILDING A BETTER COMMUNITY," HE EXPLAINED.
MR LI SAID EACH EVENT WOULD HIGHLIGHT AN IMPORTANT ASPECT OF THE DEVELOPMENT AND CONTRIBUTION OF YOUNG PEOPLE.
/IT WAS ........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
7
IT WAS HOPED THAT THROUGH PARTICIPATION IN THE EVENTS YOUNG PEOPLE WOULD STAND TO BENEFIT IN PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT. PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING, RECREATIONAL AND CULTURAL PURSUITS,COMMUNITY SERVICE, INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE, CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND, IF NECESSARY, REHABILITATION.
A MAJOR EVENT WOULD BE A LARGE-SCALE "WE ARE HONG KONG" RALLY FOR 30,000 YOUNG PEOPLE AND CELEBRITIES AT THE HONG KONG STADIUM ON DECEMBER 16.
THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AND LADY WILSON, HAVE AGREED TO OFFICIATE AT THE EVENT, AND CELEBRITIES WILL BE INVITED TO ATTEND SO AS TO AROUSE THE INTEREST AND ACTIVE PARTICIPATION OF YOUTH FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE.
"YOUNG PEOPLE WILL BE INVOLVED IN THE PROGRAMME PRODUCTION OF THE EVENT, WHICH AIMS AT ILLUSTRATING OUR FESTIVAL THEME AND PROVIDING GOOD QUALITY ENTERTAINMENT," MR LI NOTED.
TO HELP DISSEMINATE THE "WE ARE HONG KONG" THEME, MR LI SAID THE CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE HAD ALREADY ORGANISED A SLOGAN COMPETITION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE TO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS OF HONG KONG AS THEIR HOMELAND, AND THEIR COMMITMENT TO IT.
RESPONSE TO THE COMPETITION HAD BEEN ENTHUSIASTIC, WITH THE COMMITTEE RECEIVING ABOUT 4,000 ENTRIES.
SPEAKING AT THE CONFERENCE, A PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY (HEADQUARTERS I OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, MRS STELLA HUNG. SAID THE GOVERNMENT REGARDED THE YOUTH FESTIVAL AS HAVING GREAT SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPORTANCE.
THE GOVERNMENT HAD CONTRIBUTED A TOTAL OF SI.5 MILLION TOWARDS THE FESTIVAL. A SUBSTANTIAL PART OF THIS WOULD BE USED TO SPONSOR CERTAIN LARGE-SCALE EVENTS INITIATED BY THE COMMITTEE AND ORGANISED BY VARIOUS VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.
"THROUGH ORGANISING THE YOUTH FESTIVAL, A RELATIONSHIP HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED BETWEEN DEPARTMENTS AND THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR.
VERY CLOSE WORKING
VARIOUS GOVERNMENT
"IT IS OUR EARNEST HOPE THAT THIS SPIRIT OF PARTNERSHIP WILL FACILITATE FUTURE CO-OPERATION TN OUR CONTINUING EFFORT TO WORK FOR THE WELL-BEING OF YOUNG PEOPLE." MRS HUNG SAID.
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THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 16. 1989
8
HAPPY HOME IMPORTANT IN RAISING CHILDREN: LADY WILSON » * * * *
THE COMMUNITY MUST AIM TO MAKE SURE THAT PARENTS ARE ENCOURAGED AT EVERY STAGE TO BRING UP THEIR CHILDREN IN A HAPPY ATMOSPHERE OF LOVE. CARE AND CONCERN. LADY WILSON SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE AGAINST CHILD ABUSE 10TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER, LADY WILSON SAID: "THE IMPORTANCE OF CHILD CARE AND PROTECTION CAN NEVER BE OVER-EMPHASISED."
ACCORDING TO RECENT STATISTICS, SHE NOTED THAT 20 PER CENT OF HONG KONG’S POPULATION WAS UNDER THE AGE OF 15.
THE FUTURE OF THE COMMUNITY DEPENDED THEREFORE TO A LARGE EXTENT ON HOW THESE YOUNGSTERS WERE BROUGHT UP. SHE SAID.
"I DO NOT THINK IT IS AN EXAGGERATION TO SAY THAT THE CIVILISATION OF A COMMUNITY IS JUDGED PARTLY BY THE DEGREE OF LOVE AND CARE ITS CHILDREN ENJOY.
"CHILD CARE AND PROTECTION IS THEREFORE A TASK WHICH CLAIMS THE EFFORTS OF EVERYONE IN THE COMMUNITY.
THIS IS NOT A TASK FOR GOVERNMENT ALONE; NEITHER CAN IT BE LEFT ENTIRELY TO VOLUNTARY AGENCIES." LADY WILSON SAID.
SHE OBSERVED THAT HONG KONG WAS NOT AN EASY PLACE TO BRING UP CHILDREN AS IT WAS DENSELY POPULATED AND HAD A COMPETITIVE AND BUSY POPULATION.
"EVERY CHANCE WE HAVE OF USING TELEVISION, LECTURES IN SCHOOLS AND OPEN DAYS. TO HELP PARENTS TO THINK OF THEIR CHILDREN’S NEEDS. SHOULD BE TAKEN. NOT ONLY ONCE WE COME ACROSS ABUSE, BUT HOPEFULLY LONG BEFOREHAND." SHE SAID.
LADY WILSON POINTED OUT THAT SHAMING CHILDREN, GIVING CONSTANT NEGATIVE CRITICISM. OR JUST NEVER HAVING TIME TO LISTEN TO A CHILD, WERE ALL FORMS OF ABUSE, WHICH FEW PEOPLE WERE NOT GUILTY OF AT TIMES.
"IT IS A GREAT MISTAKE TO VIEW THIS PROBLEM AS THAT OF SADISTIC MONSTERS.
'THE FACT IS. THAT WE CAN ALL, AT TIMES OF STRESS, BE ABUSIVE.
"WHAT WE NEED AT SUCH TIMES. IS IMMEDIATE ACCESS TO SOME SORT OF PROFESSIONAL HELP." SHE SAID.
LADY WILSON COMMENDED THE AGAINST CHILD ABUSE FOR MAKING A VERY SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY, BY HELPING ALL TO BE MORE AWARE THAT CHILD ABUSE WAS A SERIOUS SOCIAL PROBLEM.
/SHE SAID ........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
9
SHE SAID THE ORGANISATION SINCE IT WAS SET UP IN 1979 - THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF Till CHILI) - HAD DONE MUCH TO PROMOTE BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF WHY CHILD ABI SI HAPPENED, AND WHAT ITS CONSEQUENCES WERE.
"REMEDIAL SERVICES. A HOT LINE, COUNSELLING GROUPS, AND PERHAPS EVEN MORE IMPORTANT. THROUGH ITS PREVENTIVE WORE. AGAINST CHILD ABUSE HAS BROUGHT COMFORT AND HELP. TO A LARGE NUMBER OF CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES. SHE ADDED.
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HEALTH EXHIBITION AT CITY HALL
*****
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WILL HAVE A CHANCE TO LEARN AND UNDERSTAND MORE ABOUT HEALTH WHEN THEY VISIT A HEALTH EXHIBITION NEXT WEEK.
THE THEME OF THE EXHIBITION, LET’S TALK HEALTH", COINCIDES WITH THAT OF THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION (WHO) FOR THE YEAR 1989.
THE EXHIBITION, ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL HEALTH EDUCATION UNIT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH. AIMS AT AROUSING PUBLIC INTEREST AND CONCERN ABOUT A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE.
IT WILL BE HELD AT THE CITY HALL EXHIBITION HALL, BETWEEN 3.30 PM AND 6.30 PM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20) AND BETWEEN 10.30 AM TO 6.30 PM DAILY FROM TUESDAY TO FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 21 TO 24).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THE WHO HAD APPEALED TO ALL MEMBER STATES THAT THIS YEAR THEY SHOULD COMMUNICATE HEALTH RATHER THAN DISEASE, AND HAD INVITED THEM TO PARTICIPATE IN THE DISSEMINATION OF HEALTH MESSAGES.
FROM THE EXHIBITION. VISITORS WILL BE ABLE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE WHICH IS SIGNIFICANT DURING THE FOUR STAGES OF LIFE - CHILDHOOD, YOUTH, ADOLESCENCE AND OLD AGE.
THE EXHIBITION WILL PROVIDE VIDEO SHOWS, GAME STALLS AND DISPLAYS OF WINNING ENTRIES IN THE POSTER DESIGN AND CHINESE CALLIGRAPHY COMPETITIONS HELD EARLIER THIS YEAR.
THERE WILL ALSO BE CHARTS SHOWING THE HEIGHT AND WEIGHT COMPARISONS BETWEEN MALES AND FEMALES OF VARIOUS AGE GROUPS.
/"IT IS ........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
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"IT IS HOPED THAT RESIDENTS WILL HELP TO SPREAD HEALTH MESSAGES TO THEIR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES AFTER VISITING THE EXHIBITION," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
THE SENIOR PRO-VICE-CHANCELLOR AND PROFESSOR OF MEDICINE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, PROFESSOR ROSIE YOUNG, AND THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR S.H. LEE, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE HEALTH EXHIBITION AT 3 PM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20).
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES SHOULD ARRIVE AT THE CITY HALL EXHIBITION HALL NO LATER THAN 2.45 PM. INFORMATION OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.
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$77M TO IMPROVE DRAINAGE IN NORTHWEST NT *****
THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) AWARDED A #77 MILLION CONTRACT FOR THE PHASE III WORKS OF THE DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT SCHEME IN THE NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES.
THE WORKS, WHICH ARE AIMED AT ALLEVIATING THE FLOOD HAZARDS IN THE AREA, INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A DRAINAGE CHANNEL NEAR HUNG SHUI KIU AND THE WIDENING OF HUNG SHUI KIU RIVER.
MAJOR FACILITIES TO BE PROVIDED INCLUDE A TOTAL OF 2,200 METRES OF CONCRETE-LINED CHANNELS, ASSOCIATED ACCESS ROADS, FOOTBRIDGES, CYCLE TRACKS, FOOTPATHS AND SEWERS. EXISTING CROSSINGS OVER THE CHANNELS WILL ALSO BE RECONSTRUCTED.
ALL CONSTRUCTED DRAINAGE CHANNELS WILL BE CONNECTED TO THE TRUNK DRAINAGE SYSTEM AT TIN SHUI WAI.
UNDER THE TWO PREVIOUS PHASES OF WORKS, WHICH COST #30 MILLION AND #20 MILLION RESPECTIVELY, DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS ARE BEING CARRIED OUT AT UK TSUEN, FUI SHA WAI, TAI TO TSUEN, TIN SAM, SIK KONG WAI AND TSEUNG KONG WAI.
WORKS FOR THE CURRENT PHASE WILL COMMENCE LATER THIS MONTH AND ARE EXPECTED TO TAKE 30 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
THE CONTRACT WAS SIGNED BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (PROJECTS AND DEVELOPMENT) OF THE DEPARTMENT, MR TSE HON-SUM, AND THE DIRECTOR OF HENRYVICY CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LIMITED, MR LAI WING-YIP.
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/Il ........
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 16, 1989
- 11 -
PERCUSSIVE PILING NOISE CONTROLS TAKE EFFECT TOMORROW
*****
THE PROVISIONS OF THE NOISE CONTROL ORDINANCE RELATING TO THE CONTROL OF NOISE FROM PERCUSSIVE PILING WORKS WILL COME INTO OPERATION TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
AN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT FROM TOMORROW ANYONE WHO CARRIED OUT PERCUSSIVE PILING OPERATIONS WOULD REQUIRE A CONSTRUCTION NOISE PERMIT FROM THE DEPARTMENT.
THE MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR AN OFFENCE OF NOT HAVING A CONSTRUCTION NOISE PERMIT OR IN CONTRAVENTION OF THE PERMIT CONDITIONS IS $50,000 FOR FIRST CONVICTION, AND $100,000 FOR SECOND AND SUBSEQUENT CONVICTION. WITH A MAXIMUM DAILY FINE OF $10,000 FOR A CONTINUING OFFENCE.
COMPLAINTS ON PERCUSSIVE PILING NOISE CAN BE LODGED WITH LOCAL POLICE STATIONS FOR PROMPT ACTION.
ON THE PERCUSSIVE PILING PERMIT APPLICATIONS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE EPD HAD SO FAR ISSUED 85 PERMITS.
OF THESE, 16 PERMITS STIPULATED THREE HOURS AS THE DAILY MAXIMUM OPERATING LIMIT. 12 PERMITS STIPULATED FIVE HOURS AND THE REMAINING 27 PERMITS ALLOWED OPERATION FOR THE FULL 12 HOUR PERIOD FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT WITH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PERCUSSIVE PILING PROVISIONS, ALL MAJOR PROVISIONS OF THE NOISE CONTROL ORDINANCE WOULD HAVE BEEN BROUGHT INTO OPERATION THIS YEAR.
ENQUIRIES ON THE PROVISIONS OF THE NOISE CONTROL ORDINANCE MAY BE MADF TO THE NOISF CONTROL GROUP OF THE EPD ON THE 27TH FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE. 130 HENNESSY ROAD, HONG KONG. THE TELEPHONE NUMBER IS 5-8351124.
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MARGINAL DECLINE IN TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS *****
TH! NUMBER OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS RESULTING IN INJURY' AND DEATH
HAVE CONTINUED TO DROP MARGINALLY' OVER Till' PAST NINE MONTHS.
THE LATEST TRAFFIC ACCIDENT FIGURES RELEASED TODAY (THURSDAY)SHOWED THE NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS DECREASED BY 2.1 PER CENT TO 4.154.WHILE THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE INJURED OR KILLED DROPPED BY 4.3 PER CENT TO 5.552. COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD OF LAST YEAR.
/THIS WAS ........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
- 12
THIS WAS STATED BY THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR (TRAFFIC). MR PEDRO CHING KWOK-HOO AT A PRESS CONFERENCE ON TRAFFIC ACCIDENT AND CASUALTY STATISTICS FOR THE THIRD QUARTER THIS YEAR.
HE POINTED OUT THAT A HIGH PROPORTION OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS INVOLVED PEDESTRIANS. THE NUMBER OF PEDESTRIANS KILLED HAD RISEN TO 55. REPRESENTING 63.6 PER CENT OF TOTAL FATALITIES.
"OF THESE. 38 FATALITIES ARE ELDERLY PEOPLE.” MR CHING SAID. HE URGED MOTORISTS TO GIVE GREATER CONSIDERATION TO OLDER PEOPLE.
REFERRING TO THE COMPULSORY WEARING OF SEAT BELT BY DRIVERS AND FRONT SEAT PASSENGERS IN TAXIS AND PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES. NEWLY INTRODUCED AT THE BEGINNING OF JULY THIS YEAR. MR. CHING REVEALED THAT THERE WAS A REDUCTION OF 20 PER CENT IN THE NUMBER OF FRONT SEAT CASUALTIES IN TAXIS IN THE FIRST THREE MONTHS PERIOD.
HOWEVER. IN THE CASE OF PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES THERE HAD BEEN A SLIGHT RISE IN FRONT SEAT CASUALTIES.
"AS THE CASUALTY SAMPLE ON WHICH THE ANALYSIS FOR PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES WAS BASED IS TOO SMALL TO FORM A CONCLUSION. IT WILL PROBABLY TAKE A YEAR’S SAMPLE BEFORE AN ACCURATE ASSESSMENT CAN BE MADE." HE EXPLAINED.
HE NOTED THAT MOST DRIVERS AND FRONT SEAT PASSENGERS HAD ACCEPTED THE WEARING OF THE SAFETY EQUIPMENT WITHOUT ANY PROBLEM.
WHEN MENTIONING ABOUT THE MAJOR CONTRIBUTORY FACTORS TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS. MR CHING SAID THE COMMON AREA OF CONSTANT COMPLAINT WAS THE LACK OF LANE DISCIPLINE BY MOTORISTS AND WEAVING FROM LANE TO LANE WITHOUT GIVING ADEQUATE WARNING.
'MOTORISTS SHOULD CHOOSE THEIR LANE AND STAY IN IT, AND IF THEY DO WANT TO CHANGE LANES. THEN THEY SHOULD CHECK TRAFFIC CONDITION BEFORE CHANGING.”
HE CALLED ON THE DRIVERS NOT TO WAIT IN AREAS OUTSIDE LARGE BUILDINGS WHICH ARE DESIGNED FOR EMBARKING OR DISEMBARKING PASSENGERS. THIS NOT ONLY CAUSED TRAFFIC CONGESTION. BUT FORCED PASSENGERS FROM VEHICLES OBSTRUCTED BY THEM TO EMBARK OR DISMEBARK IN THE MAIN TRAFFIC FLOW. WHICH IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS.
CONCERNING VEHICULAR INVOLVEMENT IN ACCIDENTS. STATISTICS SHOWED THAT GOODS VEHICLES WERE INVOLVED IN 1981 CASES OR 31 PER CENT OF THE WHOLE. PRIVATE CARS WERE INVOLVED IN 24.6 PER CENT OF ALL ACCIDENTS AND THE PRIVATE CAR FLEET CONSISTS OF 51.9 PER CENT OF ALL VEHICLES REGISTERED.
FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORT INVOLVEMENT. URBAN TAXIS WERE INVOLVED IN 990 ACCIDENTS WHICH REPRESENTS 55.8 PER CENT OF OVERALL PUBLIC TRANSPORT INVOLVEMENT.
/FINALLY, MR ........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
- 13 -
FINALLY. MR CHING ALSO MENTIONED ABOUT THE NINE ACCIDENTS INVOLVING LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT VEHICLES IN THE NORTH WEST NEW TERRITORIES IN WHICH TWO PEOPLE WERE KILLED.
"MOTORISTS AND PEDESTRIANS ALIKE SHOULD PAY PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO THE TRAFFIC SIGNS AND SIGNALS IN THE VICINITY OF THE SYSTEM. AND REMEMBER THAT THESE VEHICLES ARE FAST MOVING AND SILENT. ' HE ADVISED.
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WORKING GROUP ON ELDERLY COMMUNITY EDUCATION BEING PLANNED t * ♦ t t
THE GOVERNMENT IS PLANNING TO SET UP A WORKING GROUP TO STUDY WAYS OF STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY EDUCATION FOR THE ELDERLY. THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR ALFRED CHUI, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE PRIZE PRESENTATION OF A QUIZ FOR THE ELDERLY, MR CHUI SAID THE AIM WAS TO HELP INCREASE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE NEEDS OF ELDERLY PEOPLE.
"ALSO. IT WOULD HELP OUR SENIOR RESIDENTS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE AGING PROCESS AND HOW TO REMAIN HEALTHY BOTH PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY," HE SAID.
MR CHUI NOTED THAT IN ORDER TO REMAIN IN GOOD HEALTH, ELDERLY PEOPLE SHOULD TAKE PART IN HEALTHY ACTIVITIES BESIDES TAKING CARE IN THEIR DAILY LIVES.
HE POINTED OUT THE RULES THE ELDERLY SHOULD FOLLOW IN ORDER TO REMAIN IN GOOD HEALTH.
"THESE INCLUDE HAVING GOOD HABITS, A BALANCED DIET AND ADEQUATE EXERCISE, PAYING ATTENTION TO THEIR MENTAL HEALTH AND HAVING A CLEAN AND SAFE LIVING ENVIRONMENT," HE SAID.
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 16, 1989
14
EINALISTS SELECTED FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS’ AWARDS
******
A TOTAL OF 18 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).
THE FINALS ARE SCHEDULED TO BE HELD ON DECEMBER 2 AND 3, BEGINNING AT 7.30 PM AT THE DRAMA THEATRE. ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS.
THERE ARE SIX CATEGORIES FOR THE AWARDS: COMPOSITION FOR WESTERN MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS. CHINESE MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS. MIXED INSTRUMENTATION AND ELECTRO-ACOUSTICAL WORKS, AS WELL AS ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE IN WESTERN MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AND CHINESE MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS.
THE TOP THREE WINNERS IN EACH CATEGORY WILL BE AWARDED $6,000, $3,000 AND $1,000 RESPECTIVELY. AMOUNTING TO A TOTAL OF $60,000 DONATED BY CASH.
THE SIX PANELS OF JUDGES FOR THE FINALS COMPRISE DR VICTOR CHAN, MR MALCOLM BUTLER, NR LAW WING-FAI. MR KUAN NAI-CHUNG, MR LAW WAI-LUN, MR KWOK DICK-YEUNG, MR CLARENCE MAK. DR JOHN CHEN, DR LAW PING-LEUNG. MR DOMING LAM. DR CHAN W1NG-WAH, MR HENRY NOVAK, PROFESSOR DAVID GWTLT. MISS NANCY LOO, MR IP KAM-SUN, MR CHEUNG HEUNG-WAH AND MR CHAN HOI-KAN.
THE LIST OF THE FINAL ENTRIES IS AS FOLLOWS:
COMPOSITION (CHINESE MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS)
♦ CONFLICT BY NG CHIU-SHING
* TEMPLE BY HUI CHEUNG-WAT
* EVOLUTION OF THOUGHT BY LAW WAI-LUN
COMPOSITION (MIXED INSTRUMENTS)
♦ ALONE BY NG CHIU-SHING
♦ Ml BY LAM SHUN
* OATH BY CHU HON-PONG
COMPOSITION (ELECTRO-ACOUSTICAL WORKS)
* MUSIC FOR FILM - A VIEW OF A MOSQUITO BY LEUNG CHI-SING
♦ DESOLATION BY KWOK KOI-HIN
* ILLUSION BY MA WAI-MET
/COMPOSITION (WESTERN .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
- 15
COMPOSITION (WESTERN MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS)
* TRIO FOR FLUTE. CLARINET AND BASS CLARINET BY LAM SHUN
* HOMELAND BY HUI CHEUNG-WAI i
* GRETCHEN BY CHEUNG CHI-LEUNG
CHINESE ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE
» LANTERN FESTIVAL BY CHINESE ENSEMBLE
* HAPPY DAYS BY PIPA ENSEMBLE
* HAN BY PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE
WESTERN ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE
* DIVERTIMENTO BY WOODWIND TRIO
» FANFARE AIR AND FINALE BY SAXAPHONE QUARTET
* THE WAR BETWEEN THE STATES 1861-65 BY HONG KONG GAP GAP BRASS
TICKETS FOR THE TWO FINALS ON DECEMBER 2 AND 3 AT #20 EACH ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT ALL URBTIX OUTLETS. FURTHER ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL. 5-283257 OR 3-7349009.
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DISTRICT FESTIVAL BADMINTON MATCH *****
THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL BADMINTON INVITATION MATCH WILL BE HELD AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19). IT WILL BEGIN AT 7 PM.
FREE ADMISSION TICKETS TO THE MATCH ARE STILL AVAILABLE AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL. THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES.
THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE HAS INVITED TWO OUTSTANDING YOUNG PLAYERS FROM FUJIAN PROVINCE. WONG HING-TAT (19) AND MISS CHONG LING (18). TO TAKE PART IN THE MATCH. BOTH PLAYERS HAVE WON MANY PRIZES ON THE MAINLAND.
LOCAL PLAYERS PARTICIPATING AT THE MATCH WILL INCLUDE WONG WAI-LAP. CHENG YIN-SIE. CHAN SIU-KWONG. TSUI MEI-SEE, CHAN WING-KIT. NG LEUNG-WAH, CHOW KIM-MAN AND SHUM MAN-KIN.
/AS BOTH ........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
AS BOTH CHINA AND HONG KONG RANK HIGH IN THE INTERNATIONAL BADMINTON CIRCLE. RESIDENTS OF WONG TAI SIN SHOULD NOT MISS THE GAME, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL.ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL BADMINTON INVITATION MATCH TO BE HELD AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19). THE MATCH WILL BEGIN AT 7 PM.
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SPECIAL DB MEETING ON BUILDING DEMOLITION
*****
THE SHAM SHUT PO DISTRICT BOARD WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING TOMORROW (FRIDAY) TO DISCUSS THE DEMOLITION OF BLOCK ONE OF THE CHEUNG SHA WAN FACTORY BUILDINGS.
THE SENIOR HOUSING MANAGER (SHAM SHUI PO). MR JOHN LUK, SENIOR ESTATE SURVEYOR (COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES), MR CHRIS ROBERTS, SENIOR STRUCTURAL ENGINEER, MR PETER AINSWORTH, AND FOUR OTHER REPRESENTATIVES OF THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT WILL BRIEF MEMBERS ON THE ISSUE AND ANSWER QUESTIONS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD SPECIAL MEETING TO BE HELD TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT THE SHEK KIP MEI COMMUNITY HALL AT BLOCK 42, SHEK KIP MEI ESTATE, NAM CHEONG STREET.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 16, 1989
17 COMMUNITY NEEDS WHOLE RANGE OE TALENTS ♦ t I * ♦
THE COMMUNITY NEEDS A WHOLE RANGE OF TALENTS AND EACH PERSON CONTRIBUTES TO THE COMMUNITY IN A DIFFERENT WAY, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE. MRS ELIZABETH WONG. SAID THIS (THURSDAY) EVENING.
SPEAKING AT THE SPEECH DAY OF WAH YAN COLLEGE, KOWLOON, MRS WONG SAID WHILE SOME STUDENTS WOULD PURSUE FURTHER STUDIES, OTHERS MIGHT HAVE TO COME OUT TO WORK IN SOCIETY.
’’THE COMMUNITY NEEDS A WHOLE RANGE OF TALENTS. EACH IS SIGNIFICANT IN ITS OWN RIGHT BUT COMPLEMENTARY TO ALL OTHERS,” SHE SAID.
ADVISING THOSE WHO WOULD START WORKING, MRS WONG SAID: "LEARN EVERYTHING ABOUT YOUR WORK: PICK UP NEW SKILLS AS THEY EMERGE: AND BE ALERT TO CHANGES IN SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL CONDITIONS OF THE COMMUNITY.
"YOU NEED TO KEEP ABREAST OF THE CHANGING ENVIRONMENTS; WIDEN YOUR CONTACTS WITH PEOPLE: AND PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS."
NOTING THAT THE STUDENTS HAD UNDERTAKEN MANY COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS, MRS WONG SAID THESE PROJECTS WERE VITAL LINKS BETWEEN STUDENTS AND THE COMMUNITY.
"THESE ACTIVITIES WILL INCULCATE AMONG STUDENTS A SENSE OF FUTURE COMMITMENT AND RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS THE COMMUNITY AND. MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL. A FEELING OF THEIR BELONGING TO IT,” SHE SAID.
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1989 HK ANNUAL DIGEST OF STATISTICS ON SALE ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
THE 1989 EDITION OF THE HONG KONG ANNUAL DIGEST OF STATISTICS. PUBLISHED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT. IS NOW ON SALE.
THIS ANNUAL PUBLICATION IS THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE SOURCE OF OFFICIAL STATISTICS. BRINGING TOGETHER IN ONE VOLUME UP-TO-DATE STATISTICAL INFORMATION ON THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS OF HONG KONG.
THE REPORT COVERS STATISTICS ON A WIDE RANGE OF TOPICS INCLUDING POPULATION AND VITAL STATISTICS, LABOUR. INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION. DISTRIBUTIVE TRADES. TRANSPORT AND SERVICES, EXTERNAL TRADE, GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT. PUBLIC FINANCE AND MONEY AND BANKING.
/IT ALSO .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
18 -
IT ALSO COVERS PRICES AND HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE, FOOD SUPPLIES, TRANSPORT, COMMUNICATIONS AND TOURISM. BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION, HOUSING, EDUCATION, MEDICAL AND HEALTH, SOCIAL WELFARE, LAW AND ORDER, AND CULTURE AND RECREATION.
ALTOGETHER, THERE ARE 300 TABLES IN 20 SECTIONS, COVERING WHEREVER POSSIBLE A 10-VEAR PERIOD FROM 1979-1988.
THE REPORT IS AVAILABLE AT $98 PER COPY FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GPO BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL AND FROM THE PUBLICATIONS SALE COUNTER OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT. 19TH FLOOR. WANCHAI TOWER I. 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
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DB COMMITTEE TO BE BRIEFED ON PROGRESS OF CONTROL SCHEME ******
THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMERCE, INDUSTRY. AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES COMMITTEE WILL BE BRIEFED ON THE PROGRESS OF THE LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL SCHEME AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS A PROGRESS REPORT ON THE PROPOSED WORK PROGRAMME FOR THE COMMITTEE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMERCE. INDUSTRY. AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES COMMITTEE TOMORROW (FRIDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE, JOCKEY CLUB ROAD. FANLING. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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FAMILY FUN DAY IN STANLEY ON SUNDAY *****
A FAMILY FUN DAY WILL BE HELD AT STANLEY PLAYGROUND IN STANLEY NEW STREET ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) AS PART OF THE CURRENT SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
THE THREE-HOUR EVENT. BEGINNING AT 2 PM, WILL PROVIDE GAME STALLS SET UP BY LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, A TELEMATCH FOR FAMILIES AND A KOALA TRAMPOLINE FOR CHILDREN.
TO ENCOURAGE PARTICIPATION IN THE TELEMATCH. ALL PARTICIPANTS WHO HAVE COMPETED IN TWO OR MORE GAMES CAN TAKE PART IN A LUCKY DRAW WHICH WILL ENTITLE THEM TO HANDSOME PRTZFS.
/THE FAMILY .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
19
THE FAMILY FUN DAY HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE DISTRICT OFFICE TO PROMOTE COMMUNITY SPIRIT AND NEIGHBOURLINESS.
IT ALSO HOPES TO PROMOTE FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN LOCAL RESIDENTS AND EXPATRIATES.
\LL RESIDENTS, INCLUDING EXPATRIATES AND THEIR FAMILIES, ARE WELCOME TO TAKE PART IN THE FUN DAY. ADMISSION IS FREE.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE EVENT CAN BE MADE TO THE STANLEY SUB-OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE ON TEL. 5-8130305.
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FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION SCHOOLS PRAISED ******
THE FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION (FMO) SCHOOLS HAVE BEEN PRAISED FOR THE SPECIAL EMPHASIS THEY PUT ON CULTIVATING THE MORAL CHARACTER OF THEIR STUDENTS AND ENCOURAGING STUDENT PARTICIPATION TN EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES.
THE COMPLIMENT CAME FROM A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. MR LAU WONG-FAT. WHO WAS ADDRESSING MORE THAN 400 GRADUATES ATTENDING THE 20TH FMO SCHOOLS JOINT GRADUATION CEREMONY HELD AT THE CITY HALL CONCERT HALL TODAY (THURSDAY).
THE FMO SCHOOLS, FORMERLY KNOWN AS FISHERMEN’S CHILDREN’S SCHOOLS. HAVE A HISTORY OF OVER 40 YEARS. THE FMO NOW RUNS THE ABERDEEN SECONDARY TECHNICAL SCHOOL WITH 470 STUDENTS AND NINE OTHER PRIMARY SCHOOLS WITH A STUDENT POPULATION OF ABOUT 1,100.
MR LAU SAID HIS IMPRESSION OF STUDENTS IN FISHERMEN’S CHILDREN’S SCHOOLS WAS THAT THEY WERE MODEST IN CHARACTER AND BRILLIANT IN EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES. HE WAS GLAD THAT THE FMO SCHOOLS HAD KEPT UP THE GOOD TRADITION.
HE ALSO PRAISED THE TEACHING STAFF OF THE FMO SOKOLS. "THEIR DEDICATION TO THE CAUSE OF EDUCATING FISHERMEN’S CHILDREN HAS BORNE FRUIT AND THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS ARE OBVIOUS TO ALL." HE SAID.
MAINTAINING THAT EVERYBODY HAD A PART TO PROSPERITY AND THAT THE NEW GENERATION WAS THE THE TERRITORY’S CONTINUED SUCCESS. MR LAU URGED GRADUATES TO BE FULLY DEVOTED TO THEIR FUTURE CHOSE TO WORK OR TO PURSUE FURTHER STUDIES.
PLAY IN HONG KONG’S COMMUNITY’S HOPE FOR THE SECONDARY SCHOOL CAUSE. WHETHER THEY
THE PRIMARY SCHOOL GRADUATES WERE URGED TO CONCENTRATE ON THEIR STUDIES AND ENRICH THEIR KNOWLEDGE IN ORDER TO EQUIP THEMSELVES WITH THE SKILLS REQUIRED TO MEET FUTURE CHALLENGES.
EARLIER, IN HIS INTRODUCTORY SPEECH. THE DIRECTOR AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES. DR LAWRENCE LEE, PRAISED MR LAU FOR GREAT CONCERN HE HAD SHOWN FOR NEW TERRITORIES AFFAIRS AND FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FIELD OF EDUCATION THROUGH THE HEUNG YEE SCHOOLS.
OF THE HIS KUK
/20 ........
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 16, 1989
NEW EMPLOYMENT OFFICE OPENS IN KWAI CHUNG *****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS OPENED A NEW LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE OFFICE IN KWAI CHUNG TO SERVE EMPLOYERS AND JOB-SEEKERS IN THE DISTRICT.
THE OFFICE IS LOCATED AT SHOP 2 TO 5, VICTORY GARDEN, LOWER GROUND FLOOR. 153 TAI LOONG STREET. KWAI CHUNG. TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 0-4283796.
FREE SERVICE IS PROVIDED TO EMPLOYERS IN RECRUITING STAFF AND TO PEOPLE IN FINDING EMPLOYMENT.
THE OFFICE WILL BE OFFICIALLY OPENED TOMORROW (FRIDAY) BY THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR HAROLD KWOK. AND MEMBER OF THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD, MISS LI FUNG-YING.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 11 AM.
DEPT OF HEALTH REGIONAL OFFICE ON MOVE
******
THE NEW TERRITORIES WEST REGIONAL OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH WILL MOVE OUT OF ITS PRESENT PREMISES AT KWAI HING (MTR) STATION GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING TO TSUEN WAN ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 21).
ITS NEW ADDRESS IS 115 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, FIRST FLOOR, TSUEN WAN. NEW TERRITORIES.
THE ENQUIRIES TELEPHONE NUMBER IS 0-4138388.
/21
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 16, 1989
- 21 -
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN TSUEN WAN * * * *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT TO FACILITATE THE OPERATION OF THE NEW YEUNG UK ROAD MARKET IN TSUEN WAN, THE JUNCTION OF CHUEN LUNG STREET AND YEUNG UK ROAD WILL BE CLOSED FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 18).
AT THE SAME TIME. THE BAN ZONE IN CHUEN LUNG STREET SECTION BETWEEN SAN TSUEN STREET AND SHA TSUI ROAD WILL BE RELAXED.
MOTORISTS TRAVELLING FROM HO PUI STREET MAY USE CHUEN LUNG STREET. SHA TSUI ROAD AND TAI PO ROAD TO GAIN ACCESS TO YEUNG UK ROAD.
ALSO, CHUEN LUNG STREET SECTION BETWEEN SAN TSUEN STREET AND SHA TSUI ROAD WILL BE DESIGNATED A 24-HOUR URBAN CLEARWAY TO PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES.
ALL PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES, EXCEPT THOSE WITH PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT. WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM PICKING UP OR SETTING DOWN PASSENGERS WITHIN THIS RESTRICTED AREA.
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URBAN CLEARWAYS IN KWUN TONG. KOWLOON CITY * » » * *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT IN KWUN TONG FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 18). THE SECTION OF THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF SAU MAU PING ROAD EASTBOUND BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH PO LAM ROAD AND A POINT ABOUT 40 METRES EAST OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.
IN KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT. TO FACILITATE THE LAYING OF ANTI-SKID SURFACE DRESSING. A SHORT SECTION OF THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE LANE ON BOUNDARY STREET WEST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH WATERLOO ROAD WILL BE CLOSED FROM 1 PM ON SATURDAY TO 5 PM ON SUNDAY.
DURING THE CLOSURE, MOTORISTS ON BOUNDARY STREET EASTBOUND HEADING FOR WATERLOO ROAD NORTHBOUND WILL BE DIVERTED TO TRAVEL EITHER VIA CUMBERLAND ROAD AND LINCOLN ROAD, OR VIA EARL STREET, PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST, LA SALLE ROAD AND LANCASHIRE ROAD.
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/22 ........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1989
- 22
NIGHT CLOSURE OF UNDERPASS IN HUNG HOM * ♦ ♦ * t
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT THE WUHU VEHICULAR UNDERPASS WILL BE CLOSED BETWEEN 1 AM AND 5 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 18) TO FACILITATE CLEANSING OF THE UNDERPASS.
DURING THE CLOSURE, MOTORISTS TRAVELLING FROM TSIM SHA TSUI, Yau MA TEI AND THE CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL, AND WISHING TO PROCEED TO HUNG HOM, ARE ADVISED TO USE EITHER CHATHAM ROAD SOUTH, CHEONG WAN ROAD, ON WAN ROAD. CHEONG WAN ROAD AND GILLIES AVENUE; OR GASCOIGNE ROAD, CHATHAM ROAD SOUTH, CHATHAM ROAD NORTH, PAK KUNG STREET, SHUN YUNG STREET, FAT KWONG STREET AND MA TAU WAI ROAD.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 19#9
CONTENTS PA«E NO.
EARLY TRAINING FOR HANDICAPPED CHILDREN IMPORTANT ........... 1
SEPT ORDERS-ON-HAND, EMPLOYMENT AND PAYROLL FIGURES RELEASED 2 CALL FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO ANTI-DUMPING RULES WELL SUPPORTED .. 7
REVIEW OF ORGANISATION OF REGISTRAR GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT .... 8
GROWING INTERNATIONAL INTEREST IN AIRPORT PROJECT ........... 9
FINANCE COMMITTEE APPROVES TEMPORARY ALLOWANCE .............. 10
FURTHER PROVISION FOR MEETING COURT COSTS ................... 11
MORE FLEXIBILITY PROPOSED IN PAYMENT OF UC/RC ALLOWANCES .... 11
MARINE REGULATIONS TAKE EFFECT ON SUNDAY .................... 12
EXPERIMENTAL PROJECTS TO BOOST CHILD CARE SERVICES .......... 12
EMPLOYMENT SERVICE CONSTANTLY UPGRADED ...................... 13
GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT.................... 14
EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS FESTIVAL TO BEGIN ON SUNDAY............ 15
WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL IN FULL SWING ................ 16
MORE FESTIVAL EVENTS IN CENTRAL AND ’WESTERN ................ 17
PREMIERE OF GOOD CHILDREN DRAMA SERIES ...................... 18
SAI KUNG ATHLETIC MEET ON SUNDAY.............................
"FERRY POINT NITE" FOR YAU TSIM RESIDENTS ................... 20
SMOKE OUT DAY IN TSUEN WAN .................................. &
TREE PLANTING IN SHA TIN .................................... 21
DINNER FOR 1,000 SENIOR RESIDENTS ........................... 22
STUDENTS 1RGED TO BE CIVIC-MINDED ........................... 22
INCREASE IN NUMBER OF DRUG-RELATED DEATHS ................... 2J
TRAVELLERS URGED TO GET DOCUMENTS EARLY...................... 24
FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE TRAINING FOR YOUNG INMATES ........ 25
/EXHIBITION OF .......
EXHIBITION OF SCHOOL-BASED CURRICULUM PROJECTS .................4 26
NEW IDENTITY CARDS FOR MEN BORN IN 19J6-4O ....................... 26
PSPS.DEVELOPMENT IN SHEUNG SHUI .................................. 28
PRIVATE LhND LOT TO BE RESUMED FOR OPEN SPaCE .................... 28
NEW ROnD TO NORTH EASI NT LANDFILL ....................... • 29
ILLEGAL STRUCTURE IN TAI KOK TSUI TO BE CLOSED.................... JO
EXTENDED PARKING METER OPERATION’. ............................... JO
PagKING METERS’TO OPERATE ON SUNDAYS ............................ J1
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN CENTRAL ..................... J1
TEJ1P0RARY CLOSURE OF EDINBURGH PLACE NORTH ...................... J1
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 17. 1989
1
EARLY TRAINING FOR HANDICAPPED CHILDREN IMPORTANT
****»»
LADY WILSON SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THERE CLEARLY IS A NEED FOR EARLY' TRAINING FOR HANDICAPPED CHILDREN, AND SERVICES SHOULD BE PROVIDED WHENEVER THIS NEED IS IDENTIFIED, AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE.
SHE WAS SPEAKING AT THE HEEP HONG SOCIETY FOR HANDICAPPED CHILDREN’S SYMPOSIUM ON "WORKING WITH YOUNG HANDICAPPED CHILDREN -THE WAY AHEAD".
LADY WILSON SAID SHE WAS GLAD TO LEARN THAT WITH THE ANTICIPATED EXPANSION RATE OF NEW SERVICE UNITS, IT WAS HOPED TO HAVE SUFFICIENT PLACES FOR CHILDREN IN THE SPECIAL CHILD CARE CENTRES AND EARLY EDUCATION AND TRAINING CENTRES BY 1991 OR 1992 AT THE LATEST.
"SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT IS ALSO DRAWING UP PLANS TO PROVIDE SERVICES FOR THE MILDLY’ HANDICAPPED CHILDREN WAITING FOR PLACEMENT IN INTEGRATED PROGRAMMES TN CHILD CARE CENTRES.
"HEEP HONG SOCIETY ITSELF IS PLANNING A PARENT EDUCATION AND RESOURCE CENTRE TO ENABLE PARENTS TO LEARN MORE. SO THAT THEY CAN HELP THEIR CHILDREN MORE EFFECTIVELY," SHE SAID.
LADY WILSON SAID THE GOVERNMENT AND THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR HAD BEEN WORKING CLOSELY TO PROMOTE SERVICES FOR PRE-SCHOOL HANDICAPPED CHILDREN.
"THIS KIND OF CO-OPERATION IS SOMETHING WE ARE PROUD OF," SHE SAID.
THE WORKING PARTY ON PRE-SCHOOL CARE EDUCATION AND TRAINING. FORMED IN 1982. WAS AN INDICATION OF THIS CO-OPERATION. A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF THE SERVICES WAS CONDUCTED SUBSEQUENTLY, AND MANY VALUABLE RECOMMENDATIONS AND GUIDELINES WERE LAID.
"IN FACT. MOST OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS HAVE HEEL IMPLEMENTED SINCE 1987. THERE IS. HOWEVER, STILL MUCH TO BE DONI. SHI SAID.
LADY WILSON SAID WE WERE NOW MOVING CLOSER TO MEETING BASIC NEEDS. AND IT WAS TIME WE DEVOTED OUR EFFORTS TO IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF WORK.
"I AM WELL AWARE. AS I SAID. THAT THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE WORKING PARTY HAVE PROVIDED USEFUL GUIDELINES FOR SERVICES AND THAT MOST OF THE SUGGESTIONS HAVE BEEN ACTED UPON," SHE SAID.
PRE-SCHOOL REHABILITATION SERVICES WERE GROWING FAST AND SHE HOPED THAT THE IDEAS WHICH CAME OUT OF THE WORKING PARTY COULD BE DEVELOPED FURTHER.
'WE MUST CONTINUE TO THINK OF NEW IDEAS. AND LEARN FROM WHAT HAS BEEN DONE IN OTHER COUNTRIES." SHE ADDED.
/LADY WILSON .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
2
LADY WILSON SAID IT WAS VITAL TO RECOGNISE THAT WITHIN THE LABEL OF ’’HANDICAPPED”, THERE WAS MUCH DIVERSITY IN THE NATURE AND EXTENT OF HANDICAPS.
IT WAS THEREFORE UNDERSTANDABLE THAT THE PROVISION OF APPROPRIATE SERVICES TO THESE CHILDREN WAS NO SIMPLE MATTER. SHE SAID.
"NO SINGLE DISCIPLINE, BE IT PHYSICIANS, PSYCHOLOGISTS, EDUCATORS, TEACHERS, OR EVEN PARENTS THEMSELVES, CAN CLAIM ADEQUACY IN HANDLING THESE SPECIAL CHILDREN ON THEIR OWN.
"WHILE THE PROFESSIONALS MIGHT HAVE THE SCIENTIFIC OR PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE AT HAND, THEY LACK THE PARENTS’ CHANCES OF SUSTAINED OBSERVATION AND INTERACTION WITH THE CHILDREN.
"IT IS ONLY THROUGH SHARING OF EXPERIENCES, AND CO-OPERATION OF ALL THESE CONCERNED PARTIES. THAT WISDOM IN THE FIELD CAN BE POOLED TO ATTAIN THE BEST RESULTS,” LADY WILSON SAID.
NOTING THAT THE SYMPOSIUM WAS THE CLIMAX OF THE HEEP HONG SOCIETY’S JUBILEE YEAR CELEBRATION, LADY WILSON SAID IT WAS A VERY SPECIAL PLEASURE TO HAVE TWO INTERNATIONALLY FAMOUS SCHOLARS ATTENDING - PROFESSOR GURALNICK OF THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON, AND PROFESSOR RUTTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF LONDON, TO GIVE THEIR INSIGHTS INTO EARLY CHILDHOOD SPECIAL EDUCATION AND THE TRAINING OF AUTISTIC CHILDREN.
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SEPT ORDERS-ON-HAND,
EMPLOYMENT AND PAYROLL FIGURES RELEASED
THE ORDERS POSITION IN SEPTEMBER 1989 AS REPORTED BY THE 200 LARGEST MANUFACTURING COMPANIES SHOWED LITTLE CHANGE HEN COMPARED WITH BOTH AUGUST 1989 AND SEPTEMBER 1988, ACCORDING To lib RESULTS OF A SURVEY RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE CENSUS ND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
COMPARING SEPTEMBER 1989 WITH AUGUST 1989, THE AVERAGE VOLUME OF ORDERS-ON-HAND IN THE WEARING APPAREL AND THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES REMAINED UNCHANGED. ON THE OTHER HAND, ORDERS DECREASED MODERATELY IN THE TEXTILES INDUSTRY AND TO A LESSER
EXTENT IN THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS AND FABRICATED METAL INDUSTRIES OVER THE SAME PERIOD.
PRODUCTS
COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1988, THE ORDERS POSITION IN SEPTEMBER 1989 INCREASED IN THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS. WEARING APPAREL AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES. OVER THE SAME PERIOD, ORDERS DECREASED SLIGHTLY TN THE TEXTILES AND THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES.
/THE AVERAGE........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 3 -
THE AVERAGE VOLUME OF ORDERS-ON-HAND IS MEASURED IN TERMS OF THE NUMBER OF MONTHS AND REFERS TO ORDERS OUTSTANDING AS AT THE END OF THE REFERENCE MONTH.
ON EMPLOYMENT. THE MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED REPORTED THAT THEIR TOTAL WORKFORCE IN SEPTEMBER 1989 DECREASED BY 2 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1989, AND BY 8 PER CENT WHEN COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1988.
COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1989. WHILE EMPLOYMENT IN SEPTEMBER 1989 DECREASED SLIGHTLY IN MOST OF THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES SURVEYED, THE DECREASE IN THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRY WAS MORE SIGNIFICANT. ON THE OTHER HAND, SOME INCREASE IN EMPLOYMENT WAS RECORDED IN THE FOOD AND DRINKS INDUSTRY.
COMPARING SEPTEMBER 1989 WITH SEPTEMBER 1988, EMPLOYMENT INCREASED SLIGHTLY IN THE FOOD AND DRINKS INDUSTRY.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, WHILE SLIGHT DECREASES IN EMPLOYMENT WERE RECORDED TN THE FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS AND TEXTILES INDUSTRIES. EMPLOYMENT DECREASED MORE SUBSTANTIALLY IN THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRY AND TO A LESSER EXTENT IN THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS AND WEARING APPAREL INDUSTRIES.
IN SEPTEMBER 1989. PER CAPITA EARNINGS IN THE MANUFACTURING COMPANIES SURVEYED INCREASED, IN MONEY TERMS, BY 3 PER CENT OVER AUGUST 1989 AND BY 21 PER CENT OVER SEPTEMBER 1988.
COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1989. PER CAPITA EARNINGS IN SEPTEMBER 1989 INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY IN THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRY AND TO A LESSER EXTENT IN THE TEXTILES AND THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES. THESE INCREASES WERE PARTLY ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE ISSUE OF SPECIAL BONUSES BY SOME COMPANIES SURVEYED.
ON THE OTHER HAND. PER CAPITA EARNINGS INCREASED SLIGHTLY IN THE FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS AND THE FOOD AND DRINKS INDUSTRIES, BUT DECREASED MODERATELY IN THE WEARING APPAREL INDUSTRY.
COMPARING SEPTEMBER 1989 WITH SEPTEMBER 1988, PER CAPITA EARNINGS INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY IN ALL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES SURVEYED. WITH THE LARGEST INCREASES RECORDED IN THE TEXTILES AND PLASTIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES.
IN THE CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES SURVEYED, EMPLOYMENT IN SEPTEMBER 1989 SHOWED LITTLE CHANGE WHEN COMPARED WITH AUGUST 1989, BUT DECREASED SLIGHTLY WHEN COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1988. PER CAPITA EARNINGS IN SEPTEMBER 1989 INCREASED SLIGHTLY OVER AUGUST 1989 AND SUBSTANTIALLY WHEN COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1988.
IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT FIGURES FOR THIS SECTOR COVER COMPANY EMPLOYEES ONLY: SITE WORKERS EMPLOYED BY LABOUR-ONLY SUB-CONTRACTORS ARE NOT INCLUDED.
/IN THE .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 4 -
IN THE SELECTED SERVICE SECTORS. THE OVERALL EMPLOYMENT IN SEPTEMBER 1989 IN THE COMPANIES SURVEYED WAS ABOUT THE SAME AS IN AUGUST 1989. BUT INCREASED SLIGHTLY OVER SEPTEMBER 1988. PER CAPITA EARNINGS IN SEPTEMBER 1989 INCREASED SLIGHTLY OVER AUGUST 1989 AND SUBSTANTIALLY OVER SEPTEMBER 1988 FOR THE SERVICE SECTORS TAKEN TOGETHER.
THE PERCENTAGE CHANGES IN ORDERS-ON-HAND, EMPLOYMENT AND PER CAPITA EARNINGS ARE SHOWN IN TABLES 1 TO 3.
THE SURVEY COVERED A PANEL OF THE 200 LARGEST MANUFACTURING COMPANIES AND THE 50 LARGEST COMPANIES IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND SELECTED SERVICE SECTORS, CHOSEN BY REFERENCE TO THEIR EMPLOYMENT SIZES IN SEPTEMBER 1986.
THE DEPARTMENT CAUTIONED THAT AS THE SURVEY IS NOT BASED ON A SCIENTIFICALLY SELECTED SAMPLE, THE MAGNITUDES OF CHANGE INDICATED BY THE SURVEY RESULTS ARE MERELY A REFLECTION OF THE EXPERIENCE OF THE COMPANIES SURVEYED.
HOWEVER, GIVEN THE COMPOSITION OF THE PANEL, IT SHOULD BE ABLE TO PROVIDE A USEFUL INDICATION OF THE DIRECTION OF CHANGE FOR MAKING A QUICK ASSESSMENT OF DEVELOPMENT IN THE ECONOMY IN THE SHORT TERM.
THE SURVEY REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER 1989 IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE. GROUND FLOOR, GPO BUILDING. CONNAUGHT PLACE. CENTRAL, AND AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS SALES COUNTER, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER 1, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, AT S2 PER COPY.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY BE MADE TO THE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 5-8234820.
TABLE 1: ORDERS-ON-HAND TN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES
ORDERS-ON-HAND
INDUSTRY AS AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER 1989 CHANGE WHEN COMPARED WITH AUG. 89 SEP. 88
(MONTHS) (%) (%)
ALL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES 4.28 ♦
— — — — — —
WEARING APPAREL 4.77 ♦ + 3
TEXTILES 2.22 -5 -3
/plastic product .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
PLASTIC PRODUCTS 2.78 -3 47
FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS 4 . 49 -3 ♦ 3
ELECTRICAL AND
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS 5.07 ♦ -1
OTHERS 4 . 15 t t
* CHANGES WITHIN 4/-0.5 PER CENT
TABLE 2: EMPLOYMENT
PERSONS ENGAGED AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER 1989
INDUSTRY/SERVICES CHANGE WHEN AUG. 89 COMPARED WITH
SEP. 88
ALL MANUFACTURING (%) INDUSTRIES -2 (%) -8
—
FOOD AND DRINKS + 3 42
WEARING APPAREL -2 -JO
TEXTILES -1 -1
PLASTIC PRODUCTS -10 -23
FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS -3 _ o — o
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS -3 -13
OTHERS ♦ 1 t
CONSTRUCTION * ♦ -3
— — —
SERVICES ♦ ♦ 3
— — — —
BANKS -1 + 3
HOTELS *
PUBLIC UTILITIES t
OTHERS 48
/*
CHANGES WITHIN
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 6 -
* CHANGES WITHIN +/-O.5 PER CENT
# PERSONS ENGAGED COVER COMPANY EMPLOYEES ONLY: SITE WORKERS EMPLOYED BY LABOUR-ONLY SUB-CONTRACTORS ARE NOT INCLUDED.
TABLE 3: PER CAPITA EARNINGS
PER CAPITA EARNINGS
AVERAGE AS IN CHANGE WHEN COMPARED WITH
INDUSTRY/SERVICES SEPTEMBER (HKS ) 1989 AUG. 89 (%) SEP. 88 (%)
ALL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES 5,368 43 421
FOOD AND DRINKS 6,326 + 1 421
WEARING APPAREL 4,277 -4 416
TEXTILES 5,436 47 427
PLASTIC PRODUCTS 5,813 416 427
FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS 5,090 42 417
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS 5, 107 44 418
OTHERS 6,845 43 421
CONSTRUCTION a 7,446 41 417
SERVICES 9,105 42 418
BANKS 8.369 I 420
HOTELS 5,638 -1 418
PUBLIC UTILITIES 9.918 414 423
OTHERS 9,527 -10 410
/•CHANGES WITHIN .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
* CHANGES WITHIN +/-O.5 PER CENT
# PER CAPITA EARNINGS COVER COMPANY EMPLOYEES ONLY: SITE WORKERS EMPLOYED BY LABOUR-ONLY SUB-CONTRACTORS ARE NOT INCLUDED.
NOTES TO TABLES 1-3:
UNLIKE "ORDER.S-ON-HAND" AND "PER CAPITA EARNINGS", WHICH ARE AVERAGE FIGURES AMONGST THE COMPANIES SURVEYED, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONS ENGAGED BY THE COMPANIES SURVEYED IS NOT MEANINGFUL INFORMATION ON ITS OWN (BECAUSE THIS IS A PANEL SURVEY) AND IS THEREFORE NOT SHOWN.
CALL FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO ANTI-DUMPING RULES WELL SUPPORTED * * * * *
HONG KONG'S CALL FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE RULES ON ANTI-DUMPING TO PREVENT ABUSE HAS BEEN GIVEN AN ALMOST UNANIMOUS SUPPORT AT AN INFORMAL MINISTERIAL MEETING IN TOKYO ON THE URUGUAY ROUND MULTILATERAL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS.
COMMENTING ON THE MEETING, WHICH WAS HELD ON WEDNESDAY TO TODAY (NOVEMBER 15 TO 17). THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MR JOHN CHAN, SAID HE WAS GRATIFIED AT THE SUPPORT SHOWN BY DELEGATES AT THE MEETING.
MR CHAN SAID THE CALL WAS FIRST RAISED BY HONG KONG AT THE MONTREAL MINISTERIAL MEETING IN DECEMBER 1988.
"HONG KONG WILL BE SUBMITTING FURTHER PROPOSALS ON IMPROVEMENTS TO THE ANTI-DUMPING CODE NEXT MONTH,” HE SAID.
MR CHAN WAS THE LEADER OF THE HONG KONG DELEGATION AT THE INFORMAL MEETING OF TRADE MINISTERS REPRESENTING 25 MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL AGREEMENT ON TARIFFS AND TRADE (GATT).
OTHER MEMBERS OF THE DELEGATION INCLUDED THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE. MR MICHAEL SZE , AND HONG KONG’S PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE TO THE GATT. MR KEITH BROADBRIDGE.
MR CHAN SAID THE RULES OF ORIGIN ALSO ATTRACTED A LOT OF ATTENTION.
"IT WAS CLEAR THAT THERE WAS STRONG SUPPORT FROM BOTH DEVELOPED AND DEVELOPING COUNTRIES TO INTRODUCE GATT DISCIPLINES IN THIS AREA TO MAKE THE RULES FAIRER AND MORE CERTAIN TO EXPORTERS." HE SAID.
/HE SAID .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1?, 1989
HE SAID THERE WAS ALSO A CONSENSUS THAT TRADE IN TEXTILES AND CLOTHING SHOULD RETURN TO THE RULES OF THE GATT.
MR CHAN SAID ALL MINISTERS PARTICIPATED FULLY IN THE VERY INTENSIVE DISCUSSIONS.
HE HIMSELF SPOKE FORCEFULLY ON ALL ISSUES OF IMPORTANCE TO HONG KONG, IN PARTICULAR TEXTILES. ANTI-DUMPING, RULES OF ORIGIN, SAFEGUARDS AND SERVICES.
HE ADDED THAT THE MEETING WAS A USEFUL CHECKPOINT FOR MINISTERS TO REVIEW PROGRESS AND TO GET TO KNOW EACH OTHER BETTER BEFORE THE URUGUAY ROUND'S FINAL MINISTERIAL MEETING IN BRUSSELS TOWARDS THE END OF NEXT YEAR.
MR CHAN SAID HE HAD ALSO TAKEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE INFORMAL PRIVATE DISCUSSIONS ON MATTERS OF MUTUAL INTEREST WITH A NUMBER OF MINISTERS AT THE CONFERENCE INCLUDING MRS CARLA HILLS, THE U.S. TRADE REPRESENTATIVE.
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REVIEW OF ORGANISATION OF REGISTRAR GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT
*****
THE REGISTRAR GENERAL. MR NOEL GLEESON, ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAS APPOINTED A FIRM OF MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS. COOPERS AND LYBRAND ASSOCIATES LTD, TO UNDERTAKE A REVIEW OF THE ORGANISATION AND STRUCTURE OF HIS DEPARTMENT.
MR GLEESON SAID THAT SINCE IT WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1949, HIS DEPARTMENT HAD DEVELOPED INTO A CONGLOMERATE OF SUB-DEPARTMENTS WHICH HAD LITTLE OR NO INTERFACE WITH EACH OTHER.
APART FROM THE TRADE MARKS AND PATENTS REGISTRY AND THE INSURANCE AUTHORITY. BOTH OF WHICH WOULD BE OUTSIDE THE SCOPE OF THE CONSULTANCY. THE DEPARTMENT NOW INCLUDED OTHER FUNCTIONS WHICH THE CONSULTANTS WOULD EXAMINE.
THESE WERE THE COMPANIES REGISTRY, THE MONEY LENDERS REGISTRY, THE OFFICIAL RECEIVER’S OFFICE, THE OFFICES OF THE OFFICIAL TRUSTEE AND THE OFFICIAL SOLICITOR, AND THE LAND OFFICE.
THE LAND OFFICE INCLUDED I,AND REGISTRATION AND CERTAIN OTHER STATUTORY LAND FUNCTIONS AS WELL AS A CONVEYANCING AND LEGAL ADVISORY SERVICE FOR THE GOVERNMENT AND THE HOUSING AUTHORITY IN ALL OF THEIR PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS.
/MR GLEESON
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 9 -
MR GLEESON SAID MOST OF THESE FUNCTIONS HAD EXPANDED GREATLY OVER THE YEARS AND IT WAS TIME TO REVIEW THE WHOLE OPERATION TO SEE IF THE PRESENT STRUCTURE OF THE DEPARTMENT WAS THE ONE MOST SUITABLE TO PROVIDE THESE SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC AND ALSO TO IDENTIFY ANY OPPORTUNITY FOR IMPROVEMENT.
THE CONSULTANTS WOULD EXAMINE ALL OPTIONS INCLUDING CORPORATISATION, CONTRACTING OUT. AND THE POSSIBILITY OF SETTING UP SEPARATE DEPARTMENTS OR AGENCIES, HE SAID.
MR GLEESON SAID HE COULD NOT FORECAST THE OUTCOME OF THE CONSULTANCY AS THIS WOULD DEPEND ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CONSULTANTS AND THE DECISIONS TO BE TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT FOLLOWING UPON THOSE RECOMMENDATIONS.
THE CONSULTANCY WOULD COMMENCE IMMEDIATELY AND SHOULD BE COMPLETED WITHIN SIX MONTHS.
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GROWING INTERNATIONAL INTEREST IN AIRPORT PROJECT
******
INTERNATIONAL INTEREST IN PARTICIPATING IN THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECT IS FAST GATHERING MOMENTUM. A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
HE POINTED OUT THAT EVEN BEFORE THE DECISION TO GO AHEAD WITH THE NEW AIRPORT AT CHEK LAP KOK WAS ANNOUNCED BY THE GOVERNOR IN OCTOBER, EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST HAD BEEN RECEIVED FROM LEADING INTERNATIONAL FIRMS.
"UP TO EARLY NOVEMBER, SOME 20 CONSORTIA OR COMPANIES HAVE APPROACHED THE GOVERNMENT INDICATING THEIR INTEREST IN TAKING PART IN VARIOUS ASPECTS OF THE PROJECT." HE SAID, ADDING THAT A MAJORITY OF THEM WERE ENGINEERING AND CONSULTANCY FIRMS IN EUROPE, NORTH AMERICA AND JAPAN.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID A RECENT NOTICE IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE CALLING SPECIFICALLY FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST IN UNDERTAKING THE CHEK LAP KOK AIRPORT MASTER PLAN CONSULTANCY HAS DRAWN A FAVOURABLE RESPONSE.
THE NOTICE, CALLING FOR SUBMISSIONS TN WRITING TO THE DIRECTOR OF CIVIL AVIATION BEFORE NOON ON NOVEMBER. 24 THIS YEAR HAS BEEN PUBLISHED AGAIN IN THE GAZETTE TODAY.
"AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST ENTAILS ONLY A STATEMENT OF THE FIRM’S RELEVANT EXPERTISE AND PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN DEALING WITH THE MATTERS TO BE COVERED BY THE MASTER PLAN CONSULTANCY.
/"CONSULTANTS UNDERTAKING .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
10
’’CONSULTANTS UNDERTAKING THE PROJECT WILL NEED, AMONG OTHER THINGS, REVIEW AIR TRAFFIC FORECASTS, FIX THE RUNWAY CONFIGURATION AND RECLAMATION SIZE, DESIGN THE AIRPORT LAYOUT AND TRANSPORT INTERFACES, CARRY OUT A COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT STUDY, AND PRODUCE AN OVERALL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME WITH COSTS.
’’SINCE THE NEW AIRPORT IS SUCH AN IMPORTANT PROJECT. WE ARE TAKING GREAT CARE IN ENSURING THAT WE GET THE BEST POSSIBLE TEAM OF CONSULTANTS TO PREPARE THE MASTER PLAN FOR IT.
”A SHORTLIST OF CONSULTANTS WILL BE DRAWN UP FROM THOSE WHO HAVE EXPRESSED AN INTEREST AND THESE POTENTIALLY SUITABLE CONSULTANTS WILL THEN BE ASKED TO MAKE DETAILED PROPOSALS TO THE GOVERNMENT REGARDING THE WAY THEY WOULD UNDERTAKE THE CONSULTANCY.
"ON THE BASIS OF THESE PROPOSALS, THE GOVERNMENT WILL EVALUATE WHICH CONSULTANT SHOULD UNDERTAKE THE WORK,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE CONSULTANCY WOULD BE EXPECTED TO START BEFORE THE MIDDLE OF NEXT YEAR, HE ADDED.
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FINANCE COMMITTEE APPROVES TEMPORARY ALLOWANCE
*****
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE APPROVED TODAY (FRIDAY) THE PAYMENT OF A TEMPORARY ALLOWANCE TO FIVE CIVIL SERVICE GRADES.
"THOSE ENTITLED TO THE ALLOWANCE ARE ANALYST/PROGRAMMER I AND IT. ASSISTANT SOCIAL WORK OFFICER, EXECUTIVE OFFICER II. SENIOR MEDICAL AND HEALTH OFFICER AND MEDICAL AND HEALTH OFFICER AND NURSE (NURSING OFFICER I AND BELOW)." A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
A PROPOSAL TO EXTEND THE SAME TEMPORARY ALLOWANCE TO COVER THOSE STAFF OF COMPARABLE RANKS IN DOCTOR, NURSING AND SOCIAL WORKER GRADES IN GOVERNMENT-SUBVENTED ORGANISATIONS WAS ALSO APPROVED BY THE COMMITTEE. THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE COST FOR THE ALLOWANCE FOR GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES IN 1989-90 WOULD BE IN THE REGION OF $69.5 MILLION WHILE THAT FOR SUBVERTED ORGANISATIONS WOULD BE $34 MILLION.
THE SPOKESMAN NOTED THAT THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL DECIDED EARLIER THIS MONTH TO ACCEPT A RECOMMENDATION BY THE STANDING COMMISSION ON CIVIL SERVICE SALARIES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE FOR PAYMENT OF A TEMPORARY ALLOWANCE FOR THE FIVE GRADES WITH EFFECT FROM OCTOBER 1 THIS YEAR.
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17. 1989
11
FURTHER PROVISION FOR MEETING COURT COSTS ******
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE TODAY (FRIDAY) APPROVED OF AN EXTRA $5 MILLION TO THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT TO COURT COSTS FOR THE REST OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR.
THE ALLOCATION
MEET ESTIMATED
THE SUPPLEMENTARY ESTIMATE OF THE AMOUNT OF GOVERNMENT IN CRIMINAL AND FINANCIAL YEAR.
PROVISION OF $5 MILLION REPRESENTS
COSTS THAT MAY BE AWARDED AGAINST COURT CASES FOR THE REMAINDER OF
AN THE THE
THE ACTUAL EXPENDITURE FOR THE PAYMENT OCTOBER 31 STOOD AT $9,180,303, OF WHICH $6,223,526 CASES AND THE REST IN CIVIL CASES.
OF COSTS UP TO
WAS IN CRIMINAL
THE ACTUAL EXPENDITURE ON COURT COSTS MILLION.
IN 1988-89 WAS $40.74
-----o-----
MORE FLEXIBILITY PROPOSED IN PAYMENT
*»»♦**•
OF UC/RC ALLOWANCES
THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS APPROVED AN AMENDMENT IN THE URBAN AND REGIONAL COUNCIL ORDINANCES TO REMOVE A QUALIFICATION ON THE TYPE OF ALLOWANCE THE COUNCIL MAY PAY TO ITS MEMBERS.
THE URBAN AND REGIONAL COUNCIL AMENDMENT BILLS WERE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY) AND WILL BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 29.
THE EXISTING PROVISIONS RESTRICT THE PAYMENT OF ALLOWANCES SOLELY TO EXPENSES INCURRED IN CONNECTION WITH THE DISCHARGE OF A MEMBER’S OFFICE. THEY DO NOT COVER MEMBERS’ LOSS OF SALARY OR WAGES AS A RESULT OF THEIR ATTENDANCE TO COUNCIL DUTIES.
"THIS QUALIFICATION IS UNNECESSARILY RESTRICTIVE AND THE BILLS SEEK TO REMOVE SUCH A RESTRICTION. IN ADDITION, IT IS PROPOSED THAT THE ALLOWANCE SHOULD BE PAID TO MEMBERS WITHOUT REQUIRING THEM FIRST TO CERTIFY THAT THEY HAVE INCURRED EXPENSES TO THAT AMOUNT," A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
FOLLOWING THE AMENDMENT, THE ADMINISTRATIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE PAYMENT OF ALLOWANCES TO MEMBERS OF THE URBAN AND REGIONAL COUNCILS WILL BE BROUGHT MORE IN LINE WITH THE PRACTICES OF THE DISTRICT BOARDS AND OMELCO, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
/MEMBERS MAY........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
12 -
MEMBERS MAY, IN THE SAME WAY AS DISTRICT BOARD AND OMELCO MEMBERS. OPT TO CLAIM THEIR. ALLOWANCES EITHER WITH A MONTHLY BREAKDOWN OF EXPENSES INCURRED OR WITHOUT A BREAKDOWN.
"THIS PROPOSAL IS IN NO WAY CONNECTED WITH THE LEVEL OF ALLOWANCES, THE MAXIMUM OF WHICH WILL CONTINUE TO BE DETERMINED BY THE COUNCILS THEMSELVES.
"IT ALLOWANCES
WILL HOWEVER PROVIDE GREATER FLEXIBILITY IN THE PAYMENT OF TO MEMBERS OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
-----0--------
MARINE REGULATIONS TAKE EFFECT ON SUNDAY
THE MERCHANT SHIPPING (SAFETY) (SIGNALS OF DISTRESS AND PREVENTION OF COLLISIONS) (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS 1989 HAVE BEEN APPROVED BY THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AND WILL COME INTO FORCE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19). A SPOKESMAN FOR THE MARINE DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY ) .
"THESE REGULATIONS GIVE EFFECT TO A FEW MINOR TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS WITH A VIEW TO IMPROVING THE INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS FOR PREVENTING COLLISIONS AT SEA. 1972 WHICH HAVE BEEN ADOPTED BY THE INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANISATION." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE AMENDED REGULATIONS APPLY TO ALL VESSELS WITHIN HONG KONG WATERS AND TO HONG KONG REGISTERED SHIPS WHEREEVER THEY MAY BE, HE ADDED.
DETAILS OF THE AMENDMENTS ARE CONTAINED IN MARINE DEPARTMENT NOTICE NO. 182 OF 1989 WHICH CAN NOW BE OBTAINED FROM THE DEPARTMENT.
-------0 --------
EXPERIMENTAL PROJECTS TO BOOST CHILD CARF SERVICES » t » » »
WITH VOLUNTARY PROJECTS WITH A
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT. IN CONJUNCTION AGENCIES, HAS CARRIED OUT A SERIES OF EXPERIMENTAL VIEW TO STRENGTHENING CHILD CARE SERVICES.
THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH TODAY (FRIDAY) AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF CHUNG HONG CENTRE IN TSING YI. THE CENTRE IS OPERATED BY THE WOMEN AND JUVENILES WELFARE ASSOCIATION.
WONG, SAID THIS ESTATE CHILDREN NEW TERRITORIES
/MRS WONG .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 15 -
MRS WONG SAID THE PROJECTS INCLUDED HALF-DAY OR FULL-DAY OCCASIONAL CHILD CARE SERVICES. OCCASIONAL CHILD CARE SERVICES IN HOSPITAL, MUTUAL HELP CHILD CARE PROGRAMMES AND EXTENDED SERVICE HOURS IN CHILD CARE CENTRES FOR CHILDREN AGED BETWEEN TWO AND SIX.
ANOTHER EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAMME, IN AFTER-SCHOOL CARE, WOULD BE IMPLEMENTED IN JANUARY FOR CHILDREN AGED BETWEEN SIX AND 12.
THE PROJECTS WOULD PROVIDE FLEXIBLE SERVICES FOR CHILDREN AND MINIMISE INCIDENTS RELATED TO UNATTENDED CHILDREN, MRS WONG SAID.
IT WAS THE DEPARTMENT’S POLICY TO PROVIDE 100 AIDED NURSERY PLACEMENTS FOR CHILDREN AGED BETWEEN TWO AND SIX IN EVERY 20,000 POPULATION.
HOWEVER, THE PLANNING RATIO WOULD BE TAILORED LN ACCORDANCE WITH DISTRICT NEEDS.
AT PRESENT, THERE ARE 301 NURSERIES PROVIDING ABOUT 30,000 PLACES. OF THESE, 168 ARE AIDED, PROVIDING ABOUT 18,000 PLACEMENTS.
MRS WONG ALSO SAID THE DEPARTMENT WAS PLANNING TO ADD 1,600 PLACEMENTS PER ANNUM IN THE NEXT TWO YEARS TO MEET DISTRICT DEMANDS.
SHE COMMENDED THE ASSOCIATION FOR ITS CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS THE WELFARE OF WOMEN AND JUVENILES SINCE ITS INAUGURATION IN 1965.
------0--------
EMPLOYMENT SERVICE CONSTANTLY UPGRADED ♦ * ♦ * t
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT REGULARLY REVIEWS AND SEEKS TO IMPROVE THE SERVICE IT PROVIDES TO JOB-SEEKERS AND EMPLOYER? THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR HAROLD KWOK, SAID TODAY (FR1; AY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE KWAI CHUNG OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT’S LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (LES), MR KWOK SAID THE NEW OFFICE REPRESENTED THE LES’S CONTINUOUS EFFORT IN PROVIDING A BETTER EMPLOYMENT SERVICE IN DENSELY POPULATED AREAS.
’’ITS FACILITIES ARE ESPECIALLY GEARED TO MEET THE NEEDS OF CLIENTS WHILE THE OFFICE LAYOUT IS DESIGNED TO ACCOMMODATE A LARGE NUMBER OF JOB-SEEKERS,” HE NOTED.
"WITH MORE DISPLAY WINDOWS AND PANELS. IT CAN ALLOW UP TO 2,000 VACANCY INFORMATION CARDS TO BE SHOWN AT A TIME," HE ADDED.
APART FROM JOB PLACEMENT SERVICE, MR KWOK SAID THE LES ALSO PROVIDED EMPLOYMENT ADVISORY SERVICES FOR JOB-SEEKERS AND RECRUITMENT SERVICES FOR EMPLOYERS.
/’’THESE INCLUDE..........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
14
’’THESE INCLUDE A JOB BAZAAR TO BE HELD FOR THE FIRST TIME IN TUEN MUN NEXT MARCH,” HE SAID.
ALSO OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING WAS A MEMBER OF THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD, MISS LI FUNG-YING.
SHE SAID THE OPENING OF THE KWAI CHUNG OFFICE WAS A TIMELY AND IMPORTANT ADDITION TO THE WIDE-RANGING SUPPORT SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE GOVERNMENT IN THE DISTRICT.
”IN VIEW OF THE CONTINUOUS DEVELOPMENT OF THE DISTRICT AS A MAJOR INDUSTRIAL CENTRE AND THE LARGE NUMBER OF VACANCIES IN THE MANUFACTURING AND SERVICE SECTORS, THE NEW SERVICE SHOULD BE WELCOMED BY LOCAL RESIDENTS,” MISS LI SAID.
------0-------
GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT t ♦ ♦ * ♦
the Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth DEVELOPMENT WITH THE DECISION TO SET UP A COMMISSION ON YOUTH, THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR DAVID LAN, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE GRADUATION CEREMONY OF WELLINGTON COLLEGE. MR LAN SAID THE FIRST MAJOR TASK OF THE COMMISSION WOULD BE TO REVIEW THE YOUTH SERVICES PROVIDED, WITH A VIEW TO RECOMMENDING A DIRECTION FOR PLANNING FUTURE SERVICES.
THE COMMISSION WOULD ALSO GATHER INFORMATION AND INITIATE RESEARCH ON YOUTH MATTERS TO ENSURE THAT THE INTERESTS OF YOUNG PEOPLE WERE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT IN THE DESIGN OF RELEVANT SERVICE PROGRAMMES. AND ENCOURAGE BETTER CO-OPERATION AMONG AGENCIES PROVIDING YOUTH SERVICES.
IN ADDITION. IT WOULD PROPOSE MEASURES FOR PROMO I ;NG CIVIC AWARENESS AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE AND THEIR PARTICIPAT ION "• COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.
YET ANOTHER IMPORTANT FUNCTION WOULD BE TO PROMOTI LEADERSHIP TRAINING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. AND LIAISE WITH OVERSEAS YOUTH ORGANISATIONS TO INCREASE THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE TO ACQUIRE INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE AND EXPOSURE, HE ADDED.
MR LAN WENT ON TO SAY THAT THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME ENABLED MORE LOCAL RESIDENTS. ESPECIALLY YOUNG PEOPLE. TO BECOME INVOLVED IN DISTRICT MATTERS, AND TO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS ON THESE.
"IT IS NOTEWORTHY THAT NEARLY BOARD MEMBERS ARE AGED BELOW 40, AND ARE CO-OPTED MEMBERS ON VARIOUS RECEIVING GOOD TRAINING AS COMMUNITY
40 PER CENT OF ALL DISTRICT AT PRESENT MANY YOUNG PERSONS COMMITTEES OF DISTRICT BOARDS, LEADERS.” HE POINTED OUT.
NOTING THAT YOUTH DEVELOPMENT REQUIRED FULL COMMUNITY SUPPORT. MR LAN SAID SCHOOLS HAD AN IMPORTANT AND ACTIVE ROLE TO PLAY BY PROVIDING ACTIVITIES THAT WOULD ENABLE STUDENTS TO DEVELOP THEIR POTENTIAL AND RECOGNISE THEIR COMMITMENT TO MAKING THE TERRITORY A BETTER COMMUNITY.
0
/15
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 15 -
EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS FESTIVAL TO BEGIN ON SUNDAY *****
AN ARTS CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD IN VICTORIA PARK ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) TO MARK THE START OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS FESTIVAL.
THE TWO-WEEK FESTIVAL WILL PRESENT A VARIETY OF CULTURAL EVENTS, BOTH CHINESE AND WESTERN, FOR RESIDENTS.
THEY INCLUDE A FILM SHOW, A CONCERT BY THE 70-STRONG EASTERN DISTRICT CHILDREN’S CHOIR, A CANTONESE OPERA SHOW AND A CONCERT BY THE LIM KEH HAN PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA.
ON DISPLAY AT THE ARTS CARNIVAL WILL BE MURAL PAINTINGS AND CALLIGRAPHY WORKS, AND DEMONSTRATIONS OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE HANDICRAFT AND FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE GIVEN.
THE HIGHLIGHT OF THF CARNIVAL WILL BE A VARIETY SHOW FEATURING A CHINESE ORCHESTRAL PERFORMANCE. DANCING AND FOLK SONGS AS WELL AS PERFORMANCES BY POP SINGERS JOHNNY YIP AND AU SIU-LUN.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE THE DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON), MR FUNG KWOK-KEUNG, EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GARY YEUNG, AND DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR SHUM CHOI-SANG.
THE ARTS FESTIVAL IS BEING JOINTLY PRESENTED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL, WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD.
FREE ADMISSION TICKETS FOR THE VARIOUS EVENTS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS THREE SUB-OFFICES.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS FESTIVAL ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) AT VICTORIA PARK FOOTBALL PITCHES NO. 4 TO 6. IT WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 16 -
WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL IN FULL SWING
*****
MORE CULTURAL. RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES WILL BE HELD IN WONG TAI SIN IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS.
THE ACTIVITIES. ORGANISED FOR RESIDENTS AS PART OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL CURRENTLY IN FULL SWING, INCLUDE A CIVIC EDUCATION EXHIBITION, DEBATE, PUBLIC SPEAKING AND CHILDREN'S DRAWING COMPETITIONS. DRAMAS, A BADMINTON MATCH, AN ATHLETIC MEET AND A DANCE PRESENTATION.
THE CIVIC EDUCATION EXHIBITION BEING HELD AT THE LOK FU SHOPPING CENTRE WILL CONTINUE UNTIL TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 21). IT WILL THEN MOVE TO THE WONG TAI SIN COMMERCIAL CENTRE ON NOVEMBER 22 BEFORE CLOSING ON NOVEMBER 24.
TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT 2 PM STUDENTS FROM THE DISTRICT’S SECONDARY SCHOOLS WILL TAKE PART IN A DEBATE COMPETITION AT THE WONG TAI SIN COMMUNITY CENTRE. ADMISSION IS FREE.
THE HONG KONG REPERTORY THEATRE WILL PRESENT A DRAMA TOMORROW AND ON SUNDAY AT THE NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE. THE PLAYS WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM. TICKETS AT $30 EACH ARE ON SALE AT URBTIX OUTLETS.
ACTIVITIES ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) WILL BEGIN WITH A DISTRICT ATHLETIC MEET AT THE HAMMER HILL ROAD SPORTS GROUND. MORE THAN 200 ATHLETES WILL COMPETE IN THE VARIOUS EVENTS WHICH START AT 9 AM.
MORE THAN 200 CHILDREN WILL TAKE PART IN A DRAWING COMPETITION TO BEGIN AT 9.30 AM AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD PLAYGROUND. WHILE A PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITION WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM AT THE WONG TAI SIN COMMUNITY CENTRE.
ADMISSION TO THESE EVENTS IS FREE.
A BADMINTON INVITATION MATCH BETWEEN TWO OUTSTANDING YOUNG PLAYERS FROM FUJIAN PROVINCE AND LOCAL PLAYERS WILL BEGIN AT 7 PM AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL.
FREE ADMISSION TICKETS FOR THE MATCH ARE STILL AVAILABLE AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL. THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES.
ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20). THERE WILL BE A DANCE PRESENTATION BY THF MIRANDA CHIN DANCING COMPANY AT THE NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE, BEGINNING AT 8 PM. TICKETS AT $10 AND $15 ARE ON SALE AT THE NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE AND URBTIX OUTLETS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE WELCOME TO COVER THE EVENTS OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
-------0----------
/17........
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 17. 1989
- 17 -
MORE FESTIVAL EVENTS IN CENTRAL AND WESTERN * * » » »
A TOTAL OF NINE EVENTS WILL BE HELD DURING THE FOURTH WEEK OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL, BEGINNING ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19).
FROM 9 AM TO 1 PM THAT DAY. MORE THAN 300 CHILDREN AGED FOUR TO 15 WILL TAKE PART IN A DRAWING COMPETITION AT THE ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS. THE THEMES OF THE COMPETITION ARE NATURAL LANDSCAPE AND THE PRESENT AND FUTURE OUTLOOK OF THE DISTRICT.
ATTRACTIVE PRIZES WILL BE AWARDED TO THE WINNERS, WHOSE ENTRIES MAY BE SELECTED TO REPRESENT HONG KONG IN THE 1990 INTERNATIONAL DRAWING CONTEST IN JAPAN.
THE COMPETITION HAS BEEN JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, THE DISTRICT OFFICE, THE MID-LEVELS AND CENTRAL AREA COMMITTEE, THE DISTRICT ASSOCIATION FOR CULTURE AND ARTS AND THE YWCA. IT IS SPONSORED BY PENTEL (HK) LTD.
FROM 1.30 PM TO 5 PM, A MASS CONCERT WILL BE HELD AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT.
THE RTHK-PRODUCED CONCERT WILL INCLUDE PERFORMANCES BY SINGERS JACKY CHEUNG. SANDY LAM. CHOW KAI-SANG AND THE GROUP "BLUE JEANS". IN ADDITION TO PERFORMANCES BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY POLICE PIPE BAND, GAMES, A DRAMA AND A SINGING COMPETITION.
THE CONCERT WILL BE HOSTED BY DISC JOCKEYS FUNG WAI-TONG, TAI CHOI-WUN AND TSOI NGA-KOK. IT WILL BE BROADCAST LIVE ON RTHK RADIO 1 BETWEEN 3 PM AND 5 PM.
AN OPENING CEREMONY FOR THE CONCERT WILL BE HELD AT 2.30 PM, WITH THE DISTRICT OFFICER MR STEPHEN FISHER. HEAD OF RADIO 1 MRS AVA CHIU. DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS MR LAM KIN-LAI AND MRS IRENE LEE, AS WELL AS THE SHEUNG WAN AREA COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN MR NGAI WAI-MING, OFFICIATING.
DETAILS FOR THE OTHER SEVEN EVENTS FOR THE FOURTH WEEK OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ARE AS FOLLOWS:
DATE/TIME EVENT VENUE
NOVEMBER 19 (SUNDAY)
9 AM - 4 PM
OUTING FOR DISTRICT ELDERLY
NOVEMBER 19 (SUNDAY) HAPPY CARNIVAL 2 PM
YUEN YUEN HOK YUEN AND CHUK LAM SIM YUEN, TSUEN WAN
BLAKE GARDEN. SHEUNG WAN
/NOVEMBER 22 .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 18 -
NOVEMBER 22 AND 23 MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS EXHIBITION HALL,
(WEDNESDAY AND EXHIBITION SHEUNG WAN CIVIC
THURSDAY) CENTRE
11 AM - 8.30 PM
NOVEMBER 9 AM - 23 (THURSDAY) 2.30 PM “GET TO KNOW HONG KONG” TRAM RIDE FROM KENNEDY TOWN TO SHAU KEI WAN
NOVEMBER 2 PM - 25 (SATURDAY) 5 PM CHILDREN STORY TELLING COMPETITION (FINALS) CARITAS SOCIAL CENTRE. POKFIELD ROAD
NOVEMBER 8 PM 25 (SATURDAY) YOUTH ARTS PARADE CLOSING CEREMONY AND VARIETY SHOW CITY HALL CONCERT HALL
NOVEMBER 25 -DECEMBER 8 HEALTHY 1 O-DAY FOR DISTRICT ELDERLY THREE ELDERLY CENTRES IN THE DISTRICT
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CHILDREN’S DRAWING COMPETITION AND THE MASS CONCERT WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 9 AM AND 1.30 PM RESPECTIVELY ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) AT THE ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS AND THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT IN CENTRAL.
THE DISTRICT INFORMATION OFFICER WILL BE ON HAND AT BOTH FUNCTIONS TO ASSIST.
------0 -------
PREMIERE OF GOOD CHILDREN DRAMA SERIES ♦ * * t *
A PREMIERE OF A VIDEO DRAMA SERIES FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) IN THE MING HUA HALL OF ST JAMES SETTLEMENT. STONE NULLAH LANE. WAN CHAI. IT WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM.
THE SERIES, ENTITLED "THE GOOD CHILDREN DRAMA SERIES", AIMS TO CULTIVATE CIVIC-MINDEDNESS AND A SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY AMONG CHILDREN.
IT HAS BEEN PRODUCED JOINTLY BY THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT HEADMASTERS’ CONFERENCE. ST JAMES SETTLEMENT, AND THE BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ CLUBS ASSOCIATION FOR THE "GOOD CHILDREN MOVEMENT" PROJECT IN WAN CHAI.
STORIES FOR THE SERIES WERE WRITTEN BY SCHOOL TEACHERS ACCORDING TO THE NEEDS OF STUDENTS AT DIFFERENT LEVELS. A TEACHING KIT HAS ALSO BEEN PRODUCED TO ACCOMPANY THE VIDEO.
/THE ASSISTANT
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 19 -
THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR ASSISTANT WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MRS PEGGY LAM
OF EDUCATION (SCHOOLS), MR Y.P OFFICER, MR BRYAN CHAN, AND , WILL OFFICIATE AT THE PREMIERE.
. CHAN, DISTRICT
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO WILL START AT 10 AM IN THE MING HUA HALL STONE NULLAH LANE, WAN CHAI.
-------0---------
SAI KUNG ATHLETIC MEET ON t » » » t
ATTEND THE PREMIERE WHICH OF ST JAMES SETTLEMENT,
SUNDAY
THE 1989 SAI KUNG DISTRICT ATHLETIC MEET WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19).
THE PURPOSE OF THE ANNUAL FUNCTION IS TO INCULCATE AN INTEREST IN SPORTS AMONG LOCAL RESIDENTS AND TO PROVIDE THEM WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO GET TO KNOW EACH OTHER BETTER.
ABOUT 200 PARTICIPANTS FROM VARIOUS SCHOOLS, ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS IN THE DISTRICT WILL TAKE PART IN 48 EVENTS AT THE ATHLETIC MEET.
THE ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER (COMMUNITY AFFAIRS) OF SAI KUNG, MISS LISA CHAN, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE 1989 SAI KUNG DISTRICT ATHLETIC MEET. WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) AT THE TANG SHIU KIN SPORTS GROUND, SAI KUNG TOWN.
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/20.........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 20 -
"FERRY POINT NITE" FOR YAU TSIM RESIDENTS ♦ * * t *
A VARIETY SHOW WILL BE HELD FOR YAU TSIM RESIDENTS ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) NIGHT.
THE ’FERRY POINT NITE’. WHICH FEATURES A LION DANCE, MAGIC SHOW. SINGING AND DANCE PERFORMANCES BY TV ARTISTS. WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE JORDAN ROAD VEHICULAR FERRY CONCOURSE, STARTING AT 7.30 PM. THERE WILL ALSO BE A LUCKY DRAW OF ATTRACTIVE PRIZES FOR PARTICIPANTS.
THE EVENT. WHICH AIMS AT ENHANCING RESIDENTS’ SENSE OF BELONGING AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT. HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE FERRY POINT AREA COMMITTEE WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD.
OFFICIATING AT THE SHOW’S OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR WONG HON-HO; CHAIRMAN OF YAU TSIM DISTRICT BOARD, MR YIP WAH: AND CHAIRMAN OF FERRY POINT AREA COMMITTEE, MR IP KWOK-CHUNG.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE FERRY POINT NITE TO BE HELD AT JORDAN ROAD VEHICULAR FERRY CONCOURSE THIS SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) STARTING AT 7.30 PM.
-------0----------
SMOKE OUT DAY IN TSUEN WAN ♦ ♦ ♦ t t
I
AN ANTI-SMOKING EXERCISE WITH THE THEME "TAKE A FRESH BREATH IN TSUEN WAN - SMOKE OUT DAY" WILL BE HELD IN TSUEN WAN ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) AFTERNOON.
<
THE EVENT IS ORGANISED BY THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD’S WORKING GROUP ON EDUCATION AND THE TSUEN WAN ADVENTIST HOSPITAL.
EXHIBITION PANELS WILL BE PUT UP AT THE PODIUM OUTSIDE THE TySUEN WAN MTR STATION AND LUK YEUNG SHOPPING ARCADE.
TO ENCOURAGE A WIDER PARTICIPATION. PUBLICITY LEAFLETS AND 1>ALLOONS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED IN ADDITION TO FREE HEALTH CHECK-UPS.
(
/THE EXECUTIVE
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
21
THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE HONG KONG COUNCIL ON SMOKING AND HEALTH, DR CHRISTOPHER LEUNG, CHAIRMAN OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD’S SOCIAL SERVICES AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION COMMITTEE, MR CHAN YUEN-SUM, AND ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER OF TSUEN WAN, MISS DIANE WONG, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 2 PM.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE "TAKE A FRESH BREATH IN TSUEN WAN - SMOKE OUT DAY” ANTI-SMOKING EXERCISE AT THE PODIUM OUTSIDE THE TSUEN WAN MTR STATION AND LUK YEUNG SHOPPING ARCADE AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19).
-----0 ---------
TREE PLANTING IN SHA TIN
*****
SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICER MR VICTOR YUNG. DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS. AREA COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN AND MEMBERS OF THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN SHA TIN COMMITTEE WILL TAKE PART IN A TREE PLANTING EXERCISE TO MARK THE CLOSING OF THE CLEAN SHA TIN CAMPAIGN 1989 ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19).
TWENTY-FIVE TREES OF THE SPECIES STERCULIA LANCEOLATA LAV WILL BE PLANTED IN THE OPEN SPACE ADJOINING CITY ONE AND CHAP WAI KON STREET.
AT A CEREMONY TO BEGIN AT 2 PM AT GARDEN SQUARE, CITY ONE CENTRE, PRIZES WILL BE PRESENTED TO WINNERS OF THE "PUBLIC AND PRIVATE ESTATES CLEANLINESS COMPETITION" AND THE "REFUSE REMAKE COMPETITION". WHICH HAVE FORMED PART OF THE CAMPAIGN.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CLOSING CEREMONY AND TREE PLANTING ACTIVITY OF THE CLEAN SHA TIN CAMPAIGN 1989 TO BEGIN AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) AT THE GARDEN SQUARE, CITY ONE CENTRE, SHA TIN.
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/22........
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 17, 1989
22
DINNER FOR 1.000 SENIOR RESIDENTS * » * X
ABOUT 1,000 SENIOR RESIDENTS FROM THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT WERE TONIGHT (FRIDAY) TREATED TO A DINNER AT A LOCAL RESTAURANT.
MANY ALSO WON ATTRACTIVE PRIZES IN THE MEAL.
A GRAND LUCKY
DRAW AFTER
BEING PART OF THE CURRENT DISTRICT
FESTIVAL, ORGANISING
THE
DINNER
COMMITTEE
FINANCED MAINLY BY THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL
SPONSORSHIP FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD AND THE DISTRICT OFFICE.
WAS
WITH
THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR STEPHEN
GATHERING WHICH HE DESCRIBED AS A
SPEAKING BEFORE THE DINNER, FISHER, WELCOMED THE ELDERLY TO THE "HARMONIOUS AND HAPPY" OCCASION.
"YOU ALL DESERVE THE TREAT AFTER SO MANY YEARS OF CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY." HE TOLD THE PARTICIPANTS.
THE DISTRICT OFFICER ALSO CALLED BE MORE CONSIDERATE OF THE ELDERLY IN FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS.
ON THE YOUNGER GENERATION TO
ORDER TO MAINTAIN AMICABLE
ALSO ATTENDING THE DINNER WERE THE REGIONAL SOCIAL OFFICER (HONG KONG ISLAND). MR KWOK NAI-SIK, AND CHAIRMAN KENNEDY TOWN/MOUNT DAVIS AREA COMMITTEE, MR CHOW YIN-SUM.
WELFARE
OF THE
---------------o ------- STUDENTS URGED TO BE CIVIC-MINDED » t » * »
THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR CHRIS WAN, TODAY (FRIDAY) URGED STUDENTS OF NING PO COLLEGE TO BE MORE CIVIC-MINDED, AND TO PUT INTO PRACTICE WHAT THEY HAVE LEARNED ABOUT CIVIC AND MORAL EDUCATION.
SPEAKING AT THE SCHOOL’S GRADUATION CEREMONY. MR WAN DREW THE ATTENTION OF THE STUDENTS TO EXAMPLES OF UNCI VIC-MINDED BEHAVIOUR HE HAD WITNESSED.
THESE EXAMPLES INCLUDED OBSTRUCTION BY SHOP-KEEPERS OF A PAVEMENT IN KWUN TONG. A YOUNG MAN SCRAMBLING FOR A SEAT AHEAD OF A CHILD TN AN MTR TRAIN, AND PASSENGERS ELBOWING THEIR WAY ABOUT IN AN MTR TRAIN. HE ALSO REFERRED TO A WOMAN TEACHER WHO WAS KILLED BY A FALLING BRICK IN NORTH POINT.
MR WAN TOLD THE STUDENTS: "I AM SURE THAT CIVIC AND MORAL EDUCATION FORMS AN INTEGRAL PART OF YOUR SCHOOL CURRICULUM. HOWEVER. ACTION IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN WORDS. I URGE YOU TO PRACTISE WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED."
/HE SAID .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 23 -
I
HI
HE SAID THE BEST OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRACTICE CAME LITTLE THINGS THAT WE DO IN OUR DAILY LIVES"
FROM
"THE
"IF YOU TAKE A GOOD LOOK AROUND SEE PLENTY OF GOOD EXAMPLES AND
ATTITUDES.
BAD
YOU AND AT YOURSELF. EXAMPLES OF CIVIC
YOU WILL
ACTS AND
'LET US CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS THIS SOCIETY BEING MORE CONSIDERATE TOOTHERS. BI SHOWING FELLOW CITIZENS AND MORE COMPASSION TO THE HANDICAPPED AND THE UNDERPRIVILEGED," HE SAID.
THAT WE ALL LIVE IN
MOKE CONCERN TO AGED, THE YOUNG,
BY OUR THE
-----0------
INCREASE IN NUMBER OF DRUG-RELATED DEATHS
*****
THERE HAS BEEN AN INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF DRUG-RELATED DEATHS AND POLICE BELIEVE THE LOW PURITY OF NO. 3 HEROIN IS A MAJOR FACTOR.
IT IS ALSO ACKNOWLEDGED THAT DIRECT USE OF NO. 4 HEROIN BY LOCAL ADDICTS COULD LEAD TO FATALITIES. SENIOR STAFF OFFICER OF THE POLICE NARCOTICS BUREAU, MR YIP KWOK-KEUNG, TOLD MEMBERS OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF KWUN TONG THIS (FRIDAY I EVENING.
MR YIP SAID ACCORDING TO POLICE FIGURES, DRUG-RELATED DEATHS HAD RISEN FROM 65 CASES IN 1987 TO 85 CASES IN 1988, AND MORE SERIOUSLY. 85 SUCH CASES WERE RECORDED IN THE FIRST SIX MONTHS THIS YEAR.
"PURITY LEVELS OF NO. 3 HEROIN, THE DRUG COMMONLY USED BY LOCAL ADDICTS, HAVE PLUMMETTED TO AS LOW AS ABOUT FIVE PER CENT," MR YIP SAID.
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE LOW PURITY CONTENT WAS A DIRECT RESULT OF DRUG TRAFFICKERS SEEKING MORE ATTRACTIVE PROFITS. HARMFUL SUBSTANCES WERE BEING ADDED MAKING DRUGS MORE LETHAL.
ON THE OTHER HAND, HE SAID, MANUFACTURERS FROM THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE HAD STOPPED PRODUCING HEROIN BASE AND CONCENTRATED ON NO. 4 HEROIN FORCING LOCAL ADDICTS TO TAKE THE HIGH-GRADED DRUG.
I
"BECAUSE THE AVERAGE ADDICT DOES NOT HAVE THE EXPERIENCE IN CONTROLLING THE DOSAGE OF NO. 4 HEROIN. THE PURITY OF WHICH VARIES, THIS RESULTS IN THE INCREASED DRUG-RELATED DEATHS," HE ADDED.
I c
H
Y
/TURNING TO .......
L Y
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
24
TURNING TO THE FIGHT AGAINST DRUG TRAFFICKING, MR YIP SAID DESPITE THE SUCCESSFUL OPERATIONS, ONE SHOULD NOT BE COMPLACENT BUT SHOULD CONTINUE WITH THE UPHILL BATTLE.
"THE IMPETUS OF THE DRUG TRAFFICKING (RECOVERY OF PROCEEDS) ORDINANCE WHICH WAS INTRODUCED IN SEPTEMBER THIS YEAR HAS LED TO THE INVESTIGATION OF SEVEN SERIOUS DRUG TRAFFICKING CASES AND THE FREEZING OF ABOUT $5 MILLION OF ASSETS BY THE COURTS.
"THIS AMOUNT MAY SEEM SMALL, BUT IT IS A GOOD START FOR THE 30-STRONG FINANCIAL INVESTIGATION GROUP WHICH IS EXPECTED TO TAKE ON THE TREMENDOUS WORKLOAD IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS," MR YIP SAID.
-----0-----
TRAVELLERS URGED TO GET DOCUMENTS EARLY
*****
THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT HAS ADVISED PEOPLE INTENDING TO TRAVEL ABROAD DURING THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS TO APPLY FOR TRAVEL DOCUMENTS NOW.
"THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE TRAVELLING OUTSIDE HONG KONG WILL BE GREATLY INCREASED AT THAT TIME OF THE YEAR. IN ORDER TO AVOID A LAST MINUTE RUSH. PEOPLE ARE ADVISED TO APPLY FOR A PASSPORT OR CERTIFICATE OF IDENTITY WELL IN ADVANCE OF THE DATE ON WHICH THEY INTEND TO TRAVEL." A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
"THE DEPARTMENT NOW TAKES 20 WORKING DAYS (I.E. APPROXIMATELY FOUR WEEKS) TO ISSUE A BRITISH HONG KONG PASSPORT AND 15 WORKING DAYS (I.E. APPROXIMATELY THREE WEEKS) TO ISSUE A HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF IDENTITY.
"HOWEVER, THE PROCESSING TIME FOR AN APPLICATION FOR A BRITISH NATIONAL (OVERSEAS) PASSPORT OR A HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF IDENTITY IS ABOUT FIVE WEEKS IF THE APPLICANT IS NOT IN POSSESSION OF A PERMANENT IDENTITY CARD. FOR. HE HAS TO OBTAIN ONE AT THE SAME TIME," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
RE-ENTRY PERMITS AND DOCUMENTS OF IDENTITY FOR VISA PURPOSES WERE NORMALLY ISSUED ON THE SAME DAY BUT DELAY WAS LIKELY IF THERE WERE MANY APPLICANTS COMING AT THE SAME TIME. FOR EXAMPLE, ON A SATURDAY.
"THE PERIOD BEFORE THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS IS THE BUSIEST TIME OF THE YEAR. APPLYING EARLY WILL NOT ONLY SPREAD THE WORKLOAD OF THE DEPARTMENT BUT WILL ALSO GIVE APPLICANTS EXTRA TIME TO MEET ANY FURTHER VISA PROCESSING REQUIREMENTS WHERE NECESSARY." THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
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/*5 .......
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 17. 1989
- 25 -
FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE TRAINING FOR YOUNG INMATES
A NEW TRAINING FACILITY, A "TRAINING RESTAURANT". FOR MALE YOUNG OFFENDERS HAS BEEN ADDED TO LAI SUN CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION ON HEI LING CHAU.
THE FACILITY WAS OFFICIALLY OPENED TODAY (FRIDAY) BY THE COMMISSIONER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, MR CHAN WA-SHEK.
PROVISION OF THE "TRAINING RESTAURANT" WILL ENABLE INMATES IN THE INSTITUTION TO RECEIVE PROPER TRAINING IN FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE OF PRACTICAL APPLICATION IN HOTELS. RESTAURANTS AND OTHER CATERING ESTABLISHMENTS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT (CSD) SAID FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE TRAINING WAS FIRST INTRODUCED IN 1983 AT TAI TAM GAP CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION FOR YOUNG FEMALE INMATES.
"THE PROGRAMME HAS BEEN DEVELOPED TO A STANDARD ENABLING TRAINEES TO SIT FOR THE RELEVANT EXAMINATION OFFERED BY THE CITY AND GUILDS OF LONDON INSTITUTE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE TRAINEES SHOWED GREAT INTEREST AND ENTHUSIASM IN THE TRAINING PROGRAMME AND ACHIEVED ENCOURAGING RESULTS IN THE EXAMINATION.
"IN FACT. MANY OF THEM GAINED EMPLOYMENT IN THIS TRADE AFTER RELEASE." HE ADDED.
IN VIEW OF THE SUCCESS OF THE TRAINING PROGRAMME. THE CSD DECIDED TO INTRODUCE A SIMILAR FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE COURSE TO INMATES AT LAI SUN CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION.
MAJOR TOPICS COVERED BY THE COURSE INCLUDE A GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO THE CATERING INDUSTRY, FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE OPERATION. SAFETY AND HYGIENE, LAW AND CUSTOM, SOCIAL Sl< LLS, BILLING AND CHECKING.
THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE COURSE IS ONE Ob THE VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAMMES PROVIDED BY THE CSD TO YOUNG INMATES.
OTHER COURSES INCLUDE BOOK-KEEPING. ACCOUNTING, TYPEWRITING AND TELECOMMUNICATION, LEADING TO EXAMINATIONS OFFERED BY THE CITY AND GUILDS OF LONDON INSTITUTE. LONDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, PITMAN EXAMINATIONS INSTITUTE AND UNDER THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION.
THE CSD IS ALSO MAKING ARRANGEMENT WITH THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY FOR DISCHARGED TRAINING CENTRE INMATES TO ATTEND COURSES OFFERED RY THE AUTHORITY.
"THIS EXTENSIVE PROGRAMME IS DESIGNED TO DEVELOP GOOD WORK HABITS AND SKILLS WHICH WILL HELP THE INMATES OBTAIN EMPLOYMENT AFTER RELEASE AND ASSIST THEIR RE-INTEGRATION INTO SOCIETY," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
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FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 17. 1989
26 EXHIBITION OF SCHOOL-BASED CURRICULUM PROJECTS * * * * *
THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD A THREE-DAY EXHIBITION OF SCHOOL-BASED CURRICULUM PROJECTS FOR TEACHERS AND SCHOOL PRINCIPALS FROM TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE HONG KONG TEACHERS’ CENTRE IN PAK FUK ROAD. NORTH POINT.
THE EXHIBITION IS DESIGNED TO AROUSE TEACHERS' INTEREST IN THE SCHOOL-BASED CURRICULUM PROJECT SCHEME AND TO GIVE THEM AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE THEIR EXPERIENCE IN THIS FIELD.
THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION. MR Y.T. LI. THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL. MR ANDREW SO, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF THE SCHOOL-BASED CURRICULUM PROJECT SCHEME, MR TAM MAN-KWAN. WILL JOINTLY OFFICIATE AT AN OPENING CEREMONY AT 10.30 AM.
EXHIBITS FROM 35 KINDERGARTENS. PRIMARY. SECONDARY AND SPECIAL EDUCATION SCHOOLS WILL BE PUT ON DISPLAY.
THE EXHIBITION. FUNDED BY THE SCHOOL-BASED CURRICULUM PROJECT SCHEME. WILL BE OPEN TOMORROW FROM 11 AM TO 6 PM AND ON MONDAY AND TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 20 AND 21) FROM 9.30 AM TO 6 PM.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE EXHIBITION AT 10.30 AM TOMORROW (SATURDAY).
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NEW IDENTITY CARDS FOR MEN BORN IN 1936-40
*****
THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT MEN BORN IN 1936. 1937. 1938, 1939 OR 1940 WOULD BE REQUIRED TO APPLY FOR NEW IDENTITY CARDS FROM NOVEMBER 27 TO JANUARY 13.
"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.
THESE OFFICES ARE OPEN SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
FROM
8 AM TO 9.30 PM
DAILY. EXCEPT
"THE ISSUE OFFICES ARE VERY CROWDED IN THE EVENINGS. TO AVOID HAVING TO QUEUE UP FOR A LONG TIME AT THE ISSUE OFFICES OR. TO COME BACK ON ANOTHER DAV. APPLICANTS ARE ADVISED TO GO TO THESE OFFICES IN THE MORNINGS AND THE AFTERNOONS." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
/APPLICANTS MAY .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
APPLICANTS MAY ALSO 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 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
TSUF.N WAN : EAST ASIA COMMERCIAL CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, 29-37 TSUEN FU STREET TEL. NO. 0-4981259
SHA TIN : SHOP 8A. SECOND FLOOR, CHANWAY SHOPPING CENTRE,
11-17 SHA TIN CENTRE STREET TEL. NO. 0-6059108
YUEN LONG : HOP YICK CENTRE, SECOND FLOOR, 31 HOP YICK ROAD
TEL. NO. 0-4771543
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. 0-6727191
FOR INFORMATION CONCERNING THE DOCUMENT TO BE BROUGHT ALONG, THEY MAY MAKE USE OF THE 24-HOUR RECORDED MESSAGE SERVICE BY DIALLING 5-8909393.
THE SPOKESMAN REMINDED MEN BORN IN 1941. 1942, 1943 OR 1944
WHO HAVE NOT APPLIED FOR THEIR NEW IDENTITY GARDS TO COME FORWARD WITHOUT FURTHER DELAY AS THERE IS ONLY ONE MORE WEEK LEFT BEFORE THE CURRENT PHASE CLOSES ON NOVEMBER 25.
HE POINTED OUT THAT FAILURE TO APPLY FOR A NEW IDENTITY CARD WITHIN THE SPECIFIED PERIOD IS AN OFFENCE LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF S3,000.
THE SPOKESMAN REITERATED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
/?& .......
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r
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 28 -
w
PSPS DEVELOPMENT IN SHEUNG SHUI
*****
■, )
A NEW HOUSING ESTATE UNDER THE PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION SCHEME WILL BE BUILT ON A 9,732-SQUARE-METRE SITE IN AREA 7A, SHEUNG SHUI, NEW TERRITORIES.
UNDER THE SCHEME, NOT LESS THAN 800 BUT NOT MORE THAN 880 RESIDENTIAL UNITS WILL BE PROVIDED.
THE BUILDING CONVENANT STIPULATES THAT THE GROSS FLOOR AREA FOR RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES SHALL NOT EXCEED 48,110 SQAURE METRES AND THE GROSS FLOOR AREA FOR NON-INDUSTRI AL (EXCLUDING RESIDENTIAL AND GODOWN) PURPOSES SHALL NOT EXCEED 700 SQUARE METRES.
THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT IS NOW OFFERING THE SITE FOR SALE BY TENDER. THE DEADLINE FOR TENDER SUBMISSIONS IS NOON ON JANUARY 12 NEXT YEAR.
FORMS OF TENDER, TENDER NOTICE AND CONDITIONS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM AND TENDER PLAN INSPECTED AT THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG AND THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICES KOWLOON, YAU MA TEI CARPARK BUILDING, 10TH FLOOR, 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON.
TENDER DOCUMENTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICES OF SHA TIN, TAI PO, YUEN LONG, TSUEN WAN, KWAI TSING, TUEN MUN, SAI KUNG AND THE NORTH AND ISLANDS DISTRICTS.
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T
PRIVATE LAND LOT TO BE RESUMED FOR OPEN SPACE t * ♦ » *
A PRIVATE LAND LOT IN QUARRY BAY ON HONG KONG ISLAND IS TO BE RESUMED FOR A PUBLIC OPEN SPACE PROJECT.
THE LOT, WITH AN AREA OF ABOUT 250 SQUARE METRES, IS LOCATED AT GREIG ROAD.
i?
TOGETHER WITH A PIECE OF ADJOINING GOVERNMENT LAND AT THE JUNCTION OF GREIG ROAD AND KING’S ROAD, THE SITE WILL BE DEVELOPED INTO A PUBLIC OPEN SPACE FOR USE AS A CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND.
WORK ON THE PROJECT WILL START EARLY NEXT YEAR FOR COMPLETION IN EARLY 1991.
•i
DETAILS OF THE RESUMPTION WERE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
-----0
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 17. 1989
- 29 -
NEW ROAD TO NORTH EAST NT LANDFILL » » » » »
THE CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT PROPOSES TO BUILD A ROAD FROM SHA TAU KOK ROAD TO THE NORTH EAST NEW TERRITORIES LANDFILL IN TA KWU LING.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) SAID A FEASIBILITY STUDY WAS CARRIED OUT IN 1987 FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE NORTH EAST NEW TERRITORIES LANDFILL.
THE STUDY RECOMMENDED AN ACCESS ROUTE INTO THE LANDFILL SITE BY MEANS OF A NEW ROAD FROM SHA TAU KOK ROAD.
THE PROPOSED WORKS INCLUDE:
* CONSTRUCTION OF A 7.3 METRE-WIDE CARRIAGEWAY WITH A FOOTPATH FROM SAH TAU KOK ROAD TO WO KENG SHAN FOR A TOTAL LENGTH OF 2.5 KILOMETRES:
* CONSTRUCTION OF A CARPARKING AREA. FOOTPATHS AND AMENITY AREAS:
* ASSOCIATED DRAINAGE. LANDSCAPING AND EARTHWORKS:
* REALIGNMENT AND SURFACING OF SOME EXISTING TRACKS: AND
* CLOSURE OF SOME EXISTING TRACKS AND FOOTPATHS.
A NOTICE ON THESE WORKS WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY.
THE PLANS AND SCHEME MAY BE INSPECTED AT THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE. CENTRAL ENQUIRE SUB-OFFICE. CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES. WEST WING. MAIN ENTRANCE LOBBY, HONG KONG; AND THE NORTH DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE AND NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE AT JOCKEY CLUB ROAD. FANLING ROUNDABOUT. FANLING. NEW TERRITORIES.
ANY PERSON WHO WISHES TO OBJECT TO THE PROPOSED WORKS SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT. CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING. SECOND FLOOR. LOWER ALBERT ROAD. HONG KONG NOT LATER THAN JANUARY 16 NEXT YEAR.
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/JO........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17. 1989
ILLEGAL STRUCTURE IN TAI KOK TSUI TO BE CLOSED
*****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE AN ILLEGAL STRUCTURE IN TAI KOK TSUI SO THAT IT CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND TO THE PUBLIC.
THE STRUCTURE IS ON THE ROOF OVER FLAT A ON THE FIFTH FLOOR. RISING BILLION MANSION. 67A AND 67B, TONG MEI ROAD.
THE CLOSURE FORMS PART OF AN EXERCISE TO ENFORCE AN ORDER ISSUED UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE IN NOVEMBER LAST YEAR REQUIRING THE DEMOLITION OF THE STRUCTURE.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON JANUARY 17 NEXT YEAR WAS POSTED ON A CONSPICUOUS PART OF THE STRUCTURE TODAY (FRIDAY).
IT IS INTENDED THAT DEMOLITION WILL START IMMEDIATELY AFTER A CLOSURE ORDER IS MADE.
- 0 - -
EXTENDED PARKING METER OPERATION
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT 50 PARKING METERS IN NORTH POINT AND WAN CHAI WILL ALSO OPERATE ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS FROM 10 AM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) TO REGULATE THE UTILISATION OF THE PARKING SPACES.
IN NORTH POINT, 10 PARKING METERS ARE LOCATED IN JAVA ROAD BETWEEN NORTH POINT ROAD AND TONG SHU1 ROAD, FOUR IN TIN CHONG STREET AND NINE TN YUET YUEN STREET. THE PARKING CHARGE IS $1 PER 30 MINUTES.
THE REMAINING 27 PARKING METERS ARE LOCATED IN LOCKHART ROAD IN WAN CHAI BETWEEN FLEMING ROAD AND STEWART ROAD. THE PARKING CHARGE IS $2 PER 30 MINUTES.
THESE PARKING METERS WILL BE OPERATIVE FROM 10 AM TO 10 PM ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AND FROM 8 AM TO 12 MIDNIGHT ON WEEKDAYS.
- - 0 - -
/r
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 17, 1989
- 31 -
PARKING METERS TO OPERATE ON SUNDAYS ♦ ♦ » ♦ *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT THE PARKING METERS ON MAN FUK ROAD AND MAN WAN ROAD IN HO MAN TIN WILL ALSO OPERATE ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS FROM 10 AM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19).
THE OPERATING HOURS OF THESE METERS WILL BE FROM 10 AM TO 10 PM.
ON NORMAL WEEKDAYS. THE OPERATING HOURS WILL REMAIN FROM 8 AM TO MIDNIGHT.
THE UPPER PART OF THE POST OF THESE METERS WILL BE PAINTED WHITE AND THE SUPPLEMENTARY PLATE UNDER THE PARKING SIGN WILL INDICATE THE OPERATING HOURS. THE PARKING CHARGE WILL BE UNCHANGED.
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TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT TN CENTRAL ♦ ♦ » * ♦
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FROM 1 AM TO MIDNIGHT ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 19) FOR THE HOLDING OF THE "MASS CONCERT OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL 89".
APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC SIGNS WILL BE ERECTED TO GUIDE MOTORISTS.
------0--------
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF EDINBURGH PLACE NORTH
NORTH EXCEPT
PLACE
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT EDINBURGH BETWEEN QUEEN’S PIER AND HMS TAMAR WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC EMERGENCY VEHICLES FROM 8 PM TOMORROW (SATURDAY) TO 10 PM ON SUNDAY.
THE "CSL FAIR ’89" WILL BE HELD THERE DURING THIS PERIOD.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
NO DECISION YET ON NATIONALITY PACKAGE: GOVERNOR.......... 1
ROLE OF AREA COMMITTEES RECOGNISED........................ 2
FEWER SOCIAL SECURITY APPEALS FOR 3RD CONSECUTIVE YEAR ... 3
CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES PLAY IMPORTANT ROLE............ 't
CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES INTEGRAL PART OF COMMUNITY..... 5
SAFETY MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE FOR LOCAL INDUSTRIALISTS .... 6
YOUTH PLAYS IMPORTANT ROLE IN KEEPING HK CLEAN ........... 7
FESTIVAL FOR ELDERLY IN SAI KUNG ......................... 7
KWUN TONG DISTRICT FESTIVAL STARTS TOMORROW .............. 8
KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN YOUTH RALLY.......................... 8
CARNIVAL FOR ELDERLY IN TAI PO TOMORROW................... 9
DB TO DISCUSS ORDINANCE'S IMPLEMENTATION ................. 10
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS EXTENSION OF KCP TO HK ISLAND..... 10
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS EFFECT OF DIVERTING RIVERCOURSES .... 11
INCREASE IN PROSECUTIONS FOR SPEEDING OFFENCES ........... 11
NO LET UP IN POLICE EFFORTS AGAINST Il'S ................. 12
PURCHASE OF COMPUTER ASSISTED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM APPROVED .......................................... 13
NEW LABOUR RELATIONS OFFICE IN SHA TIN ...................
SUSPENSION OF DTC REGISTRATION RENJWED.................... 15
WATER CUT IN MUI WO ON LANTAU ISLAND...................... 15
SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS SOLD BY AUCTION ...................... 15
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN WESTERN ................ 16
TEMPORARY URBAN CLEARWAY IN HENNESSY ROAD................. 17
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 18, 1989
1
NO DECISION YET ON NATIONALITY PACKAGE: GOVERNOR t t » « » »
NO DECISIONS HAVE YET BEEN MADE BY BRITISH MINISTERS ON THE RIGHT OF ABODE PACKAGE FOR PEOPLE OF HONG KONG. THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AT THE AIRPORT ON HIS RETURN FROM A VISIT TO LONDON. SIR DAVID SAID THE BRITISH HOME OFFICE TEAM. WHICH. WAS IN HONG KONG RECENTLY TRYING TO WORK OUT A FAIR SYSTEM AND LOOK AT WAYS IN WHICH A PACKAGE COULD BE DESIGNED. WAS WORKING VERY HARD ON THE DETAILS OF THE PACKAGE.
"THEY DO STILL HOPE TO TRY TO GET A PACKAGE BY ABOUT THE TURN OF THE YEAR. BUT NOBODY COULD BE PRECISE ABOUT THE TIMING AND WE DO HAVE A NEW HOME SECRETARY WHO HAS GOT TO FAMILIARISE HIMSELF WITH ALL THE DETAILS BEFORE HE GOES PUBLIC ON A PACKAGE." HE SAID.
POINTING OUT THAT HE HAD BEEN PRESSING FOR A PACKAGE WHICH WAS AS GENEROUS AS IT POSSIBLY COULD BE, SIR DAVID SAID: "IF WE CAN'T HAVE EVERYTHING THAT WE HAVE BEEN GOING FOR. IN OTHER WORDS FULL U.K. PASSPORTS FOR ALL BRITISH NATIONALS, THEN IF THERE IS TO BE A PACKAGE, IT SHOULD BE AS GENEROUS AS POSSIBLE."
ASKED HOW MANY PASSPORTS HE HAD BEEN CALLING FOR. THE GOVERNOR SAID; "I’M NOT GIVING FIGURES ON THIS. WHAT I AM TRYING TO DO IS TO SAY THAT WE SHOULD HAVE SOMETHING WHICH IS GENEROUS SO THAT IT COVERS A SUBSTANTIAL NUMBER OF KEY PEOPLE IN BOTH THE PUBLIC SECTOR AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR.
"IT'S VERY HARD TO PUT PRECISE FIGURES ON IT BECAUSE EVERY' TIME YOU TRY TO PUT A FIGURE ON IT THERE WOULD BE MANY. MANY PEOPLE WHO WOULD SAY OBVIOUSLY THAT FIGURE IS ONE THEY DISAGREED WITH," SIR DAVID SAID.
"WHAT I'M TRYING TO DO IS TO PRESS TO UP WHATEVER FIGURE IT IS THAT THE BRITISH SIDE IS THINKING OF." HE ADDED.
THE GOVERNOR ALSO NOTED THAT HONG KONG’S STATUS. IN RELATION TO THE REST OF THE WORLD. AS A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL TRADING AND FINANCIAL CENTRE WAS A KEY PART OF THE TERRITORY NOW.
"IT IS WRITTEN VERY CLEARLY INTO THE JOINT DECLARATION. IT IS FUNDAMENTAL TO THE FUTURE SUCCESS OF HONG KONG. AND INDEED. IT IS FUNDAMENTAL TO THE ROLE THAT HONG KONG CAN PLAY IN RELATION TO CHINA, A HELPFUL ROLE AS A BRIDGE BETWEEN CHINA AND THE REST OF THE WORLD. SO THAT IS SOMETHING WE'LL GO ON TRYING TO WORK FOR." HE SAID.
ASKED TO COMMENT ON REMARKS MADE BY A CHINESE OFFICIAL THAT HONG KONG HAD DONE THINGS TO HURT CHINA INCLUDING HELPING CHINESE STUDENTS TO ESCAPE. THE GOVERNOR REITERATED : "WE IN HONG KONG DON'T WANT HONG KONG TO BE A BASE FOR SUBVERSIVE ACTIVITIES AGAINST CHINA, BUT WE DO ATTACH VERY GREAT IMPORTANCE TO OUR OWN FREEDOMS IN HONG KONG UNDER THE LAW.
"THOSE ARE VITAL FOR HONG KONG AND THOSE ARE SOMETHING WHICH WE ARE DETERMINED TO PRESERVE." SIR DAVID SAID.
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/2 ......
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 18. 1989
2
ROLE OF zXREA COMMITTEES RECOGNISED
* * * * *
THE COMMUNITY RECOGNISES THAT AREA COMMITTEES PERFORM A VERY USEFUL ROLE IN PROMOTING A COMMUNITY SPIRIT AS WELL AS PROVIDING AN INVALUABLE CHANNEL OF COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND LOCAL RESIDENTS. THE CHIEF SECRETARY. STR DAVID FORD. SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE "89 AREA COMMITTEES JOINT PRESENTATION" AT QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM. SIR DAVID SAID SINCE THEIR INCEPTION IN THE EARLY 1970’S. AREA COMMITTEES HAD BECOME AN IMPORTANT COMPONENT IN THE GOVERNMENT’S CONSULTATIVE MACHINERY AND THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME.
"THEY HAVE NOT ONLY GIVEN USEFUL ADVICE ON MATTERS AFFECTING THE WELL-BEING OF PEOPLE LIVING AND WORKING IN THE AREA. BUT ALSO ACT AS A FORUM FOR THE DISCUSSION OF CURRENT AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT POLICIES." SIR DAVID SAID.
THE BROAD CROSS-SECTION OF THE COMMUNITY REPRESENTED ON THE AREA COMMITTEES HAD ENABLED VIEWS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE TO BE REFLECTED. HE SAID.
SIR DAVID NOTED THAT THE REVIEW OF THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME IN 1987 HAD REAFFIRMED THE VALUE OF AREA COMMITTEES.
HE FURTHER POINTED OUT THAT AREA COMMITTEES WERE ALSO A VERY FERTILE TRAINING GROUND FOR COMMUNITY LEADERS AT THE GRASSROOT LEVEL.
FOR ALL THESE REASONS IT IS CLEAR THAT AREA COMMITTEES ARE
HERE TO STAY." HE SAID.
AS A TOKEN OF APPRECIATION OF THE AREA COMMITTEES' CONTRIBUTION. THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID HE HAD APPROVED AN ADDITIONAL 3500.000 FOR THEM TO ORGANISE COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES IN THE COMING FINANCIAL YEAR.
ALSO SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY. THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON. MR DAVID LAN. SAID THE JOINT PRESENTATION PROVIDED AN OPPORTUNITY FOR AREA COMMITTEES TO SHOW THEIR STRENGTH AND DETERMINATION TOWARDS BUILDING A BETTER COMMUNITY AND ENSURING THE TERRITORY’S CONTINUED STABILITY AND PROSPERITY.
MR LAN POINTED OUT THAT THE EVENT WAS THE FINALE TO A SERIES OF "A STEP CLOSER" SEMINARS ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION AND AREA COMMITTEES IN URBAN DISTRICTS.
"THE SERIES OF SEMINARS DEMONSTRATES THAT AREA COMMITTEES ARE ENTERING INTO A NEW ERA OF THE 1990’S TO WORK FOR THE BETTERMENT OF OUR NEIGHBOURHOOD." HE SAID.
THE OPENING CEREMONY WAS FOLLOWED BY A SLIDE SHOW PORTRAYING THE AREA COMMITTEES’ ROLE AND CONTRIBUTION. AND A RICH PROGRAMME OF PERFORMANCES BY AREA COMMITTEES IN EACH OF THE 10 URBAN DISTRICTS. THESE INCLUDED DRAMA. SINGING. LION AND DRAGON DANCES AS WELL AS MARTIAL ARTS DEMONSTRATIONS.
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/3 ........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1989
3
FEWER SOCIAL SECURITY APPEALS FOR 3RD CONSECUTIVE YEAR * t t t t
THE NUMBER OF APPEALS AGAINST THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT’S DECISIONS ON ELIGIBILITY AND PAYMENT OF SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS HAS DECLINED FOR THE THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR.
THIS IS SHOWN BY THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY APPEAL BOARD (SSAB) WHICH WAS RELEASED TODAY (SATURDAY).
COMMENTING ON THE REPORT, A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID: "IT HAS BEEN THE AIM OF THE DEPARTMENT TO ENHANCE THE SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM TO BETTER SERVE THE COMMUNITY. AND THE DECLINE IN THE NUMBER OF CLIENTS WHO FELT DISSATISFIED WITH THE BENEFITS IS EVIDENCE OF A SMOOTHER SYSTEM."
IN ITS ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1988-89, THE BOARD REPORTED THAT IT RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 61 APPEALS. A DECREASE OF 10 APPEALS, OR 14.1 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE PREVIOUS YEAR.
THERE HAD BEEN 71 APPEALS IN 1987-88 AND 92 IN 1986-87.
OF THE 61 APPEALS. 10 WERE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE CASES, 50 WERE SPECIAL NEEDS ALLOWANCE CASES. AND ONE WAS A CASE UNDER THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS ASSISTANCE SCHEME.
DURING THE PERIOD. 60 CASES WERE HEARD: 24 OF THESE WERE BROUGHT FORWARD FROM THE PREVIOUS YEAR.
THE BOARD CONFIRMED THE DECISION OF THE DEPARTMENT IN 40 CASES AND VARIED ITS DECISION IN 20.
SOCIAL
WELFARE
IN THE PROCESSING OF APPEALS WHICH INVOLVED MEDICAL OPINIONS, THE BOARD LIAISED CLOSELY WITH THE THEN MEDICAL AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT TN ARRANGING MEDICAL BOARDS FOR RE-ASSESSMENT.
DURING THE YEAR, A TOTAL OF 48 DISABILITY ALLOWANCE CASES AND ONE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS ASSISTANCE CASE WERE REFERRED TO THE BOARDS.
IN GENERAL, WHENEVER A PERSON WAS NOTIFIED IN WRITING BY THE DEPARTMENT OF THE RESULT OF HIS APPLICATION FOR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS. HE WAS ALSO INFORMED OF HIS RIGHT TO APPEAL TO THE BOARD IF HF WAS NOT SATISFIED WITH THE DECISION.
THE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS RECEIVED DROPPED SIGNIFICANTLY BY 42 PER CENT FROM 138 TO 80. OI THESE. 42 WERE SETTLED BY THI STAFF OF THE BOARD. FOUR WERE REFERRED TO THE APPROPRIATE OFFICES AND 34 EVENTUALLY BECAME APPEALS.
THE BOARD ALSO RECEIVED A LARGE NUMBER OF ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE’ SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEMES AND OTHER WELFARE SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE DEPARTMENT. THEY WERE AS FAR AS POSSIBLE ANSWERED BY THE STAFF OF THE BOARD OR REFERRED TO THE RELEVANT OFFICES.
/ALL MEMBERS .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1989
ALL MEMBERS OF THE SSAB, UNDER THE CHAIRMANSHIP OF MR VINCENT LIANG WAN-SANG, ARE UNOFFICIALS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR.
PUBLICITY ON THE WORK OF THE SSAB WAS AN ON-GOING EXERCISE. POSTERS ON THE APPEAL MACHINERY WERE DISPLAYED IN THE OFFICE OF THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS ASSISTANCE SECTION AND AT EACH OF THE 34 SOCIAL SECURITY FIELD UNITS.
EXPLANATORY LEAFLETS WERE ALSO MADE AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AT THESE OFFICES AS WELL AS AT THE HEADQUARTERS OF THE DEPARTMENT AND THE OFFICE OF THE SSAB.
THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE (SOCIAL SECURITY), MR ALEXANDER FUNG. WELCOMED THE SSAB’S REPORT AND EXPRESSED APPRECIATION OF THE INVALUABLE CONTRIBUTION MADE BY THE BOARD.
HE SAID THAT APPEALS ARISING FROM THE DEPARTMENT’S DECISIONS COULD BE MADE AT THE OFFICE OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY APPEAL BOARD ON THE 24TH FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE, HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI.
THEY COULD ALSO BE MADE AT THE DEPARTMENT’S TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS ASSISTANCE SECTION AT 15 WATSON ROAD, FIRST FLOOR, VICTORIA CENTRE, CAUSEWAY BAY, OR AT ANY OF THE 34 SOCIAL SECURITY FIELD UNITS.
----------------------0-------- CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES PLAY IMPORTANT ROLE *****
THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MR T.H. CHAU, TODAY (SATURDAY) UNDERLINED THE IMPORTANT ROLE PLAYED BY CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES IN FOSTERING BALANCED DEVELOPMENT OF YOUNG PEOPLE.
ADDRESSING THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE SHAU KEI WAN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRE AND STUDY/READING ROOM RUN BY THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF YOUTH GROUPS, HE POINTED OUT THAT HONG KONG HAD BECOME A COSMOPOLITAN CITY.
"WHILE ENJOYING ITS AFFLUENCE, THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG ARE ALSO CONFRONTED WITH MANY PROBLEMS SUCH AS MATERIAL TEMPTATIONS, SPECIOUS VALUES, AND ESTRANGEMENT WITHIN THE FAMILY AS A RESULT OF BOTH PARENTS GOING OUT TO WORK." HE SAID.
"THESE PROBLEMS HAVE BEEN A SOURCE OF VEXATION FOR THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG. PARTICULARLY THE YOUNGER GENERATION.
"AT THE SAME TIME, HONG KONG IS FACING A MAJOR CHANGE IN POLITICAL STRUCTURE, AND IT IS NECESSARY TO ENSURE THAT YOUNG PEOPLE GAIN A CORRECT UNDERSTANDING OF THE FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE PROSPERITY OF HONG KONG SO THAT THEY CAN POSITIVELY FACE THE CHALLENGES OF THE FUTURE."
/MR CHAU .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1989
5
MR CHAU SAID THAT AT PRESENT THERE WERE SOME 200 CHILDREN’S CENTRES, YOUTH CENTRES AND CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES IN HONG KONG AND THEIR TOTAL MEMBERSHIP EXCEEDED 200.000.
"FOR THE YEAR 1989-90. GOVERNMENT’S FINANCIAL COMMITMENT TOWARDS CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES AMOUNTS TO $170 MILLION,” HE SAID.
"THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF TODAY ARE THE FUTURE MASTERS OF HONG KONG AND THE BUILDERS AND PRESERVERS OF A PROSPEROUS SOCIETY.
"HENCE. IT IS A MATTER 01 UTMOST CONCERN FOR THE GOVERNMENT AND EVERY YOUTH WORKER TO HELP YOUNG PEOPLE EQUIP THEMSELVES FOR THIS GREAT MISSION OF THEIRS," MR CHAU SAID.
-----0 -----
CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES INTEGRAL PART OF COMMUNITY
*****
CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE COMMUNITY. THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR KWOK KA-CHI, SAID THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE TSUNG TSIN MISSION POK HONG CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRE IN SHA TIN, MR KWOK SAID THAT BY TAKING PART IN VARIOUS ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY THESE CENTRES, YOUNG PEOPLE WOULD LEARN HOW TO GET ALONG WITH OTHERS AND TO BUILD UP GOOD CHARACTER.
"THEY CAN ALSO DEVELOP THEIR PERSONAL INTERESTS AND POTENTIALS, CULTIVATE THEIR LEADERSHIP. AND BECOME MORE CONCERNED ABOUT THE COMMUNITY.
"THE CENTRES ALSO ORGANISE A WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES ON FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION. WHICH NOT ONLY HELP ENHANCE UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN PARENTS AND THEIR CHILDREN BUT ALSO STRENGTHEN THE RELATIONSHIP AMONG FAMILY MEMBERS." HE ADDED.
NOTING THAT ONE-THIRD OF SHA TIN’S POPULATION WAS IN THE SIX TO 24 YEARS OLD GROUP. MR KWOK SAID THE DEMAND FOR YOUTH SERVICES WAS GREAT.
"UNDER THE EXISTING GOVERNMENT POLICY. A CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRE WILL BE SET UP FOR EVERY 20,000 TO 30,000 PEOPLE.
"THE POK HONG CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRE IS ESTABLISHED ACCORDING TO THIS RATIO WITH A VIEW TO PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE AND CONVENIENT SERVICES FOR THE DISTRICT," HE SAID.
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/6 ........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1989
6
SAFETY MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE FOR LOCAL INDUSTRIALISTS ******
ABOUT 460 SUPERVISORS AND EMPLOYERS FROM THE LOCAL MANUFACTURING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRIES WILL SHARE JAPAN’S EXPERIENCE IN SAFETY MANAGEMENT AT A CONFERENCE TO BE HELL) ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20) AT THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE.
THE ’’CONFERENCE ON SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT - A JAPANESE EXPERIENCE” IS ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE JAPAN INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ASSOCIATION (JISHA).
’’THE CONFERENCE WILL PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL INDUSTRIALISTS TO ENHANCE THEIR KNOWLEDGE OF TECHNIQUES IN SAFETY MANAGEMENT,” THE DEPARTMENT’S CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR MR YIP YUK-LUN SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
"WE#HOPE THE JAPANESE EXAMPLE OF SUCCESS IN ACHIEVING A HIGH STANDARD OF SAFETY AND HEALTH AT WORK WILL INSPIRE THE LOCAL INDUSTRIAL SECTOR TO IMPROVE THE SAFETY STANDARD AT WORKPLACES.” MR YIP ADDED.
THE CONFERENCE WILL BE CONDUCTED IN THE FORM OF TALKS AND DISCUSSIONS. SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION TN CANTONESE, ENGLISH AND JAPANESE WILL BE PROVIDED.
AMONG THE KEY SPEAKERS IS DR TAKASHI KUSAKARI, THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT UNDER JAPAN’S LABOUR STANDARDS BUREAU. HE WILL TALK ON '’SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT IN JAPAN”.
THE MANAGER OF THE LABOUR AFFAIRS AND SAFETY DEPARTMENT OF KAJIMA CORPORATION OF JAPAN. MR HISASHI ISHIMURA, WILL TALK ABOUT ”INDUSTRIAL SAFETY MOVEMENT - ESTABLISHED SAFETY CONSTRUCTION CYCLE”.
MR CHEUNG LUN. A MEMBER OF THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD AND THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL IN HONG KONG, WILL DISCUSS "EMPLOYERS’ RESPONSIBILITY IN THE PROMOTION OF SAFETY AND HEALTH -FROM EMPLOYEES’ POINT OF VIEW”.
THE CONFERENCE WILL BE OPENED BY THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER. MR K.Y. YEUNG: THE SECRETARY FOR WORKS, MR KENNETH KWOK; THE DIRECTOR OF HOUSING. MR Y.L. PANG; THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR TONY HAMMOND: AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE WORKING COMMITTEE ON THE CONFERENCE. MR K.Y. TONGSON.
ALSO OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY WILL BE DR TAKASHI KUSAKARI, AND THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF JISHA’S INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATION DEPARTMENT. MR OSAMU TOM TH ISA.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE ’’CONFERENCE ON SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT - A JAPANESE EXPERIENCE” WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 6.45 PM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER. 20) AT THEATRE ONE, HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE. 1 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
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/7.........
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 18, 1989
7 -
YOUTH PLAYS IMPORTANT ROLE IN KEEPING HK CLEAN » » * » «
YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE CONTRIBUTED MUCH TO THE SUCCESS OF THE "KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN". THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR FREDERICK TONG, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN SAI KUNG DISTRICT YOUTH RALLY 1989. MR TONG SAID ALTHOUGH KEEPING HONG KONG CLEAN WAS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE GOVERNMENT, THE PUBLIC HAD A PART TO PLAY, TOO.
"WE SHOULD ALL KNOW THAT IT IS ALSO THE RESPONSIBILITY OF EACH AND EVERYONE OF US. TO KEEP OUR CITY CLEAN. TO ACCOMPLISH THIS, IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE MUST HAVE A GOOD HABIT OF KEEPING OUR PLACE CLEAN --A HABIT NURTURED SINCE OUR CHILDHOOD," HE SAID.
MR TONG SAID HE WAS PLEASED TO SEE SO MANY YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE DISTRICT TAKING PART IN THE EVENT, AND INVOLVING THEMSELVES DIRECTLY IN THE CAMPAIGN.
HE HOPED THAT THEY WOULD "TAKE THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN MESSAGES HOME AND PUT THEM INTO PRACTICE".
THE YOUTH RALLY WAS ORGANISED BY THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
THE PROGRAMME INCLUDED A SLOGAN COMPETITION, A CARTOON FIGURE PAINTING COMPETITION AND POTTED SPORTS.
ABOUT 500 SCHOOL STUDENTS FROM THE DISTRICT TOOK PART IN THE YOUTH RALLY.
--------0--------
FESTIVAL FOR ELDERLY IN SAI KUNG ♦ » * t I
THE 1989 SAI KUNG DISTRICT FESTIVAL FOR THE ELDERLY. WHICH AIMS AT AROUSING RESIDENTS’ CONCERN ABOUT THE WELL-BEING AND NEEDS OF SENIOR RESIDENTS IN THE DISTRICT. STARTED TODAY (SATURDAY).
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE ONE-MONTH FESTIVAL WERE DISTRICT OFFICER MR FREDERICK TONG. DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN MR WILLIAM WAN. THE DISTRICT SOCIAL WELFARE OFFICER (WONG TAI SIN AND SAI KUNG) OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT. MISS OPHELIA CHAN. AND A LOCAL DIGNITARY MR LEE YUN-HAU.
THE FESTIVAL WILL LAST UNTIL DECEMBER 16. A TOTAL OF 18 ACTIVITIES WIL) BE HELD. INCLUDING VISITS TO HOMES FOR THE AGED IN SAI KUNG. DENTAL AND,HEALTH CHECK-UP SERVICES. CHESS COMPETITIONS. A CONCERT AND BANQUETS.'
ABOUT 750 LOCAL ELDERLY ATTENDED TODAY’S OPENING CEREMONY AND A VARIETY SHOW THAT FOLLOWED.
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 18. 1989
KWUN TONG DISTRICT FESTIVAL STARTS TOMORROW t ♦ » t »
THE MONTH-LONG KWUN TONG DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL BEGIN TOMORROW (SUNDAY) WHEN A VARIETY SHOW IS HELD FOR ABOUT 3.000 RESIDENTS.
THE THREE-HOUR SHOW WILL BE HELD AT THE HONG NING ROAD PLAYGROUND. BEGINNING AT 2 PM.
THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON. MR DAVID LAN. WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICER. MR CHRIS WAN: VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL. MR STEPHEN LAU: KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR LAM HANG-FAI: LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR. MR POON CHI-FA1: PRESIDENT OF THE KWUN TONG FESTIVAL ’89 ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MR LO CHING-HO: AND CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MADAM YEUNG KAM-CHUN.
THE SHOW WILL INCLUDE PERFORMANCES BY THE ’’BLUE JEANS” GROUP AND SINGER CHOY LAP-YI. AND THERE WILL BE A DEMONSTRATION BY MEMBERS OF THE FRINGE CLUB.
THE KWUN TONG FESTIVAL '89. WHICH WILL LAST UNTIL DECEMBER 16. HAS BEEN JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD. THE URBAN COUNCIL. THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE 15 AREA COMMITTEES IN THE DISTRICT.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY AND VARIETY SHOW OF THE KWUN TONG FESTIVAL ’89 TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE HONG NING ROAD PLAYGROUND. IT WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.
- 0 -
KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN YOUTH RALLY ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
YOUNG PEOPLE FROM WAN CHAI DISTRICT WILL SHOW THEIR SUPPORT FOR THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN BY GIVING SINGING PERFORMANCES AND TAKING PART IN TELEMATCHES AT A RALLY AT MORETON TERRACF FOOTBALL PITCH TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN YOUTH RALLY HAS BEEN ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE WORKING GROUP ON WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY AND KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN TN WAN CHAI. THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICE. WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD.
/THE PROGRAMME
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1989
9
THE PROGRAMME WILL INCLUDE CHORAL SINGING. GAME STALLS. AND COMPETITIONS WITH ’CLEAN HONG KONG” AS THE THEME.
MANY STUDENTS FROM SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT WILL ALSO JOIN THE RALLY WHICH AIMS AI ENCOURAGING YOUNG PEOPLE TO TAKE AN ACTIVE PART IN THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE ASSISTANT WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICER. Mb BRYAN CHAN. WAN CHAI DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MRS PEGGY LAM. AND ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE) OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT. MR CHAN CHI-SUM.
FREE ADMISSION TICKETS FOR THE RALLY ARE AVAILABLE AT THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT OFFICE. A SMALL NUMBER OF TICKETS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE MORETON TERRACE FOOTBALL PITCH ON SUNDAY
BEFORE THE RALLY BEGINS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN YOUTH RALLY. WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT MORETON TERRACE FOOTBALL PITCH. WAN CHAT.
------0--------
CARNIVAL FOR ELDERLY IN TAI PO TOMORROW * ♦ t t t
THE 1989 TAI PO RESPECT FOR THE ELDERLY CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
A VARIED PROGRAMME HAS BEEN ARRANGED. AND INCLUDES EVENTS SUCH AS A DRAMA PERFORMANCE. FOLK SONGS. DANCING. CANTONESE OPERA AND STALL GAMES.
THE CARNIVAL HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE WORKING GROUP ON THE ELDERLY PROJECT IN TAT PO DISTRICT AND IS SPONSORED BY 1 HE FAI PO DISTRICT BOARD.
THE TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICER. MR THOMAS YIU. AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD. MR HO YUNG-SANG, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE CARNIVAL TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT 10 AM AT THE TAI PO PLAYGROUND. HEUNG SZE HUI STREET, TAI PO.
/10.........
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 18, 1989
- 10 -
DB TO DISCUSS ORDINANCE’S IMPLEMENTATION t * ♦ t *
THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES ORDINANCE AT ITS MEETING ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20).
MEMBERS WILL ALSO STUDY REPORTS BY CHAIRMEN OF THE BOARD’S COMMITTEES AND THE DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE DISTRICT BOARD MEETING TO BE HELD DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM. 6 BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
INVITED TO COVER THE KWUN TONG ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20) IN THE TUNG YAN STREET. THE MEETING WILL
0
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS EXTENSION OF KCR TO HR ISLAND ♦ ♦ ♦ t * t
THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS THE EXTENSION OF THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY TO HONG KONG ISLAND AT ITS MEETING ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20).
MEMBERS WILL ALSO REVIEW THE GREEN MINIBUS SERVICES IN THE DISTRICT.
ALSO ON THE AGENDA IS THE PROPOSED MEETING SCHEDULE FOR THE COMMITTEE IN 1989-91.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE TO BE HELD ON MONDAY (NOVMEBER 20) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF TAI PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE. 152 KWONG FUK ROAD. TAI PO.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 9.30 AM.
0 ---------
/Il ........
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 18, 1989
- 11
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS EFFECT OF DIVERTING RIVERCOURSES *******
THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT AND WORKS COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS THE EFFECT OF DIVERTING ALL RIVERCOURSES TO WATER CATCHMENTS ON THE WATER QUALITY OF TOLO HARBOUR AT ITS MEETING ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20).
MEMBERS WILL ALSO EXAMINE A PROGRESS REPORT FROM THE TAI PO ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL WORKING GROUP AND THE PROPOSED MINOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTAL PROJECTS FOR 1989-90.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE THE WORK TARGETS AND THE PROPOSED MEETING SCHEDULE FOR THE COMMITTEE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD'S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT AND WORKS COMMITTEE TO BE HELD ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF TAI PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE, 152 KWONG FUK ROAD, TAI PO.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
-----0------
INCREASE IN PROSECUTIONS FOR SPEEDING OFFENCES
*****
POLICE CONTINUED TO TARGET SPEEDING MOTORISTS DURING THE THIRD QUARTER OF THIS YEAR. AND PROSECUTIONS FOR SUCH OFFENCES INCREASED BY 2.6 PER CENT. OR 875 CASES.
ALTOGETHER 33.245 PERSONS WERE PROSECUTED FOR SPEEDING.
REPORTING THIS IN HIS TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM JULY TO SEPTEMBER. THE POLICE DEPUTY DIRECTOR. TRAFFIC, MR PEDRO CHING SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT INCREASES WERE NOTED IN THREE OF THE FOUR CATEGORIES - MORE THAN 15 KILOMETRES OVER THE LIMIT (UP 23.1 PER CENT OR +3.599 CASES). MORE THAN 30 KILOMETRES OVER THE LIMIT (UP 38.9 PER CENT OR +878 CASES I AND MORE THAN 45 KILOMETRES OVER THE LIMIT (UI' 38.9 PER CENT OR +123 CASES).
HOWEVER. THIS HAD BEEN SOMEWHAT COUNTERBALANCED BY A 24.8 PER CENT (3.725 CASES) DECREASE IN PROSECUTIONS IN THE CATEGORY 15 KILOMETRES OR LESS OVER THE LIMIT.
OTHER AREAS OF CONCERN WERE FAILING TO COMPLY WITH TRAFFIC SIGNS WHICH HAD RISEN BY 836 CASES AND FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH TRAFFIC SIGNALS WHICH HAD INCREASED BY 271 CASES.
/OVERALL TRAFFIC .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1989
- 12 -
OVERALL TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT ACTION HAD DECREASED MARGINALLY BY 0.6 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE PREVIOUS QUARTER. HE SAID.
THERE HAD ALSO BEEN DECREASES IN CARELESS DRIVING CASES (DOWN 7.3 PER CENT) AND TAXI STAND OFFENCES (DOWN 48 PER CENT).
MR CHING SAID WITH THE ADDITION OF 1.551 MORE PERSONS IN THE THIRD QUARTER THERE WERE NOW 11.133 PERSONS AWAITING COURT ORDERS FOR DISQUALIFICATION HAVING INCURRED 15 OR MORE POINTS UNDER THE ROAD TRAFFIC (DRIVING OFFENCE POINTS) SYSTEM.
--------0 - - - -
NO LET UP IN POLICE
4 *
EFFORTS AGAINST Il’S
♦ * *
POLICE REITERATED TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT THERE WOULD BE NO LET UP IN THEIR EFFORTS AGAINST ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION.
GIVING THE ASSERTION. THE POLICE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS. MR BRIAN WIGLEY. ALSO WARNED THAT IT WAS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE TO EMPLOY ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS AND THAT POLICE WOULD SPARE NO EFFORT IN BRINGING OFFENDERS TO JUSTICE.
MR WIGLEY MADE THESE STATEMENTS FOLLOWING THE ARRESTS OF 55 SUSPECTED ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS AND EVADERS FROM CHINA IN A TERRITORY-WIDE ANTI-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION OPERATION CONDUCTED YESTERDAY.
"THESE ARRESTED PEOPLE WILL BE REPATRIATED TO CHINA WITHIN A FEW DAYS AFTER POLICE HAVE CHECKED WHETHER THEY HAVE COMMITTED ANY CRIMINAL OFFENCE IN HONG KONG." HE NOTED.
THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR POINTED OUT THAT POLICE CARRIED OUT SIMILAR TERRITORY-WIDE OPERATIONS AT REGULAR INTERVALS TO COMPLEMENT THE ANTI-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION OPERATIONS MOUNTED BY INDIVIDUAL DISTRICT POLICE FORMATIONS.
"THE AIM OF THESE OPERATIONS IS TO DETER THOSE PEOPLE WHO THINK. OR HAVE BEEN TOLD. THAT EMPLOYMENT IN HONG KONG IS EASY TO FIND. AND THAT ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IS NOT BEING PURSUED WITH VIGOR BECAUSE OF THE LABOUR SHORTAGE." MR WIGLEY ADDED.
PARTICIPATING IN YESTERDAY’S OPERATION WERE OFFICERS FROM THE UNIFORMED BRANCH. POLICE TACTICAL UNIT. MARINE POLICE AND CRIME FORMATIONS. THE ARRESTED PEOPLE WERE CAUGHT AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE HARBOUR.
IN THE LAST 24 HOURS ENDING AT 5 AM TODAY. POLICE INTERCEPTED
62 SUSPECTED ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM CHINA-- 19 AT SEA AND 43 ON LAND.
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/13 ........
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 18. 1989
- 13 -
PURCHASE OF COMPUTER ASSISTED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM APPROVED t » ♦ t t
FOLLOWING A YEAR OF TESTS AND EVALUATIONS THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE RECOMMENDATION TO PURCHASE A COMPUTER ASSISTED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM HAS BEEN ACCEPTED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
THE CONTRACT TO SUPPLY Till SYSTEM HAS BEEN AWARDED TO MORPHO SYSTEMS SA. A FRENCH COMPANY ASSOCIATION WITH IBM CHINA/HONG KONG CORPORATION.
THE COMPUTER ASSISTED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (CAMS) WILL BRING THE FORCE IN LINE IN THIS FIELD WITH THE WORLD’S MAJOR LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIFS.
THE FIRST PHASE OF THE SYSTEM. WHICH WILL COST APPROXIMATELY $28 MILLION. IS SCHEDULED TO BE OPERATIONAL IN OCTOBER 1990.
THE PROJECT TEAM TASKED WITH THE TESTING AND EVALUATION OF AVAILABLE SYSTEM AND THE INTRODUCTION OF THE SYSTEM WAS DRAWN FROM THE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY BRANCH AND THE END-USERS. THE I DENTIFI CATION BUREAU.
SUPERINTENDENT DAVID OLDROYD AND MANAGEMENT SERVICES OFFICER MRS CATHERINE KWAN REPRESENTED INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY BRANCH AND MR BRUCE FERGUSON THE IDENTIFICATION BUREAU.
MR FERGUSON WAS RECENTLY APPOINTED STAFF OFFICER (SYSTEM MANAGER) CAMS FOLLOWING HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE POST OF SENIOR STAFF OFFICER IN IDENTIFICATION BUREAU.
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE MAJOR BENEFITS OF THE APPLICATION OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY TO FINGERPRINT WORK WERE TWOFOLD.
FINGERPRINT SF.ARCHES THAT T/XKE S I X WEEKS (>R MORE TO COMPLETE USING OUR EXISTING MANUAL SEARCH PROCEDURES WILL IN FUTURE BE COMPLETED IN A DAY USING CAMS.
'THIS WILL RESULT IN Till- QUICK AND HIS EARLX ARRES T WILL PREVENT THE
IDENTIFICATION OF AN OFFENDER COMMISSION OF FURTHER CRIME.
SECONDLY MANUAL FINGERPRINT SYSTEMS HAVE LIMITIONS IN REGARD TO THE SCOPE OI A SEARCH AND ITS ACCURACY. CAFIS WILL PROVIDE A SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT IN ACCURACY THROUGH AN UNLIMITED SEARCH RANGE.
Till FORCI PRESENTLY HOLDS ABOUT BOO.DOO FINGERPRINT RECORDS ON CONVICTED PERSONS. PHASE ONE OI CAFIS WILL INVOLVE THE CONVERSION OF ABOUT ONE THIRD OF THESE RECORDS TO THE OPERATIONAL DATA BASE.
"IN LATE 1992 AT THE COMPLETION OF PHASE TWO OF THE PROJECT ALL FINGERPRINT RECORDS WILL HAVE BEEN CONVERTED TO THE COMPUTERISED SYSTEM THEREBY ENABLING THE SEARCH OF ALL FINGERPRINT TRACES RECOVERED FROM SCENES 01 CRIME AGAINST ALL FINGERPRINT RECORDS HELD B\r THE FORCE."
/CAFIS PROJECT .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1989
14
CAFIS PROJECT MANAGER MR OLDROYD SAID: ’’BEFORE UNDERTAKING THIS PROJECT 1 HAD A SUPERFICIAL OR GENERAL KNOWLEDGE OF THE ROLE OF FINGERPRINTS IN POLICE WORK.
"IT HAS BEEN NECESSARY FOR ME TO GAIN A THOROUGH KNOWLEDGE OF THE SYSTEMS AND PROCEDURES IN USE IN FINGERPRINT WORK AND APPLY COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY TO THEM.
'WITH THE AWARD OF THE CONTRACT TO MORPHO SYSTEMS MANY MONTHS OF HARD WORK ARE NOW REACHING THE STAGE WHEN THE EFFORTS OF THE PROJECT TEAM WILL BE REALISED. '
MR FERGUSON CONCLUDED: "IT IS OF
TREMENDOUS CREDIT TO THE
FORCE THAT THIS MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PROJECT INVOLVING
MODERN
TECHNOLOGY HAS BEEN UNDERTAKEN AND WILL
BE COMPLETED BY RESOURCES
FROM WITHIN THE FORCE.
"THERE HAS BEEN NO REQUIREMENT TO ENGAGE OUTSIDE CONSULTANTS AND THIS PROJECT. THE COMBINED RESOURCES OF THE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY BRANCH AND THE IDENTIFICATION BUREAU HAVE MET THE CHALLENGE OF THE PROJECT AND NEXT YEAR THE FORCE WILL HAVE THE MOST UP-TO-DATE FINGERPRINT SYSTEM IN THE WORLD."
-----0------
NEW LABOUR RELATIONS OFFICE IN SHA TIN
*****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL OPEN A LABOUR RELATIONS OFFICE IN SHA TIN ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20) TO HELP PROMOTE AND MAINTAIN HARMONIOUS LABOUR RELATIONS IN PRIVATE COMPANIES IN THE FAST-GROWING NEW TOWN.
THE NEW OFFICE IS LOCATED AT THE HILTON PLAZA, LEVEL 3, 3-9
SHA TIN CENTRE STREET.
IT WILL SERVE RESIDENTS OF WU KAI SHA, SIU LEK YUEN, TAI WAI, FO TAN AND OTHER AREAS SOUTH OF CHEUNG SHUE TAN.
SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE NEW OFFICE INCLUDE CONCILIATION IN LABOUR DISPUTES. ADMINISTERING THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE AND HANDLING RELATED COMPLAINTS, LABOUR RELATIONS PROMOTIONS AND ADVISING EMLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES ON ALL ASPECTS OF LABOUR RELATIONS.
THE OFFICE WILL BE OPEN FROM 9 AM TO 5.30 PM FROM MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS AND FROM 9 AM TO NOON ON SATURDAYS.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES ON LABOUR RELATIONS MATTERS CAN BE MADE ON 0-697536 I .
0
/15 ........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1989
- 15
SUSPENSION OF DTC REGISTRATION RENEWED * » * * ♦
THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING ANNOUNCED THAT HE HAS TODAY (SATURDAY) RENEWED THE SUSPENSION OF THE REGISTRATION OF G.S.P. FINANCE COMPANY LIMITED AS A DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANY FOR A FURTHER PERIOD OF SIX MONTHS.
-----0------
WATER CUT IN MUI WO ON LANTAU ISLAND ♦ ♦ ♦ t
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN MUI WO ON LANTAU ISLAND WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 10 AM TO 2 PM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20) TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FRESH WATER MAIN CONNECTION TO KIU TAU TSUEN.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT THE PREMISES AT MUI WO CHUNG HAU STREET. CHUNG HAU. MUI WO RURAL COMMITTEE ROAD. LUK TEI TONG. TAI TEI TONG. TSOI YUEN TSUEN. TSENG TAU SAN TSUEN. PAK NGAN HEUNG. WONG KUNG TIN. NAM PING. WANG TONG. METHODIST CONFERENCE CENTRE. OUTDOOR RECREATION CAMP. TUNG WAN TAU. KIU TAU TSUEN AND WO TIN.
----------------0------- SPECIAL CAR NUMBERS SOLD BY AUCTION ♦ ♦ t t *
FORTY SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBERS WERE PUT UP FOR AUCTION THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING FOR A TOTAL OF $1,020,073 WHICH WILL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY PURPOSES.
THE AUCTION. HELD AT THE CITY HALL RECITAL HALL, SAW THE REGISTRATION NUMBER EC8 FETCH THE HIGHEST PRICE OF '-Ui.
ANOTHER NUMBER ED5 WAS SOLD AT THE SECOND HIGHEST PRICE OF $88,000 WHILE THE LOWEST PRICE WAS $2,000 FOR EE3306.
FOLLOWING ARE THE RESULTS OF TODAY’S AUCTION:
$ $ $ $
EB8882 13.000 EC8 230.000 ED133 9.000 EC2168 3.500
ED986 5.000 ED688 25.000 EE3233 25,000 EC881 11,000
HK1931 20.000 EE3228 17.500 ED983 7.000 EE14 39,000
CY99 34.000 ED932 5.500 HK7 2 70,000 EE7773 7,773
ED386 5.500 5201 21.000 ED8898 8,000 EE1283 7,000
EC8836 3,000 ED286 12,000 4 89 87,000 EB678 9,000
ED5 88.000 ED3833 8,500 EC866 9,000 ED2398 4,000
EE229 25.000 ED899 11,800 BG1313 13.500 ED890 7,000
EE6388 13.000 ED2628 7,000 EE201 6,000 EE3306 2,000
ECI 18 68,000 EB3 65,000 CC2223 14,000 EC1622 3,500
/SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1989
16
SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS WERE REQUIRED TO PAY 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 14 4TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973. BROUGHT THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF MONEY FOR CHARITY REALISED SO FAR TO $88,059,705.
------0--------
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN WESTERN ♦ ♦ ♦ * ♦
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED IN WESTERN DISTRICT FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20) BECAUSE OF TRAM TRACK RENEWAL WORKS.
THE FOLLOWING MEASURES WILL BE IN FORCE FOR ABOUT A WEEK:
* ALL VEHICLES OVER FIVE METRES LONG WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM TURNING RIGHT FROM CENTRE STREET NORTHBOUND ONTO DES VOEUX ROAD WEST EASTBOUND. THESE VEHICLES WILL BE DIVERTED VIA CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST AND EASTERN STREET TO JOIN DES VOEUX ROAD WEST EASTBOUND.
* THE SIGNAL-CONTROLLED PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ON DES VOEUX ROAD WEST ON THE EASTERN SIDE OF ITS JUNCTION WITH EASTERN STREET WILL BE SUSPENDED. AT THE SAME TIME. VEHICLES ON EASTERN STREET SOUTHBOUND WILL BE ALLOWED TO TURN LEFT ONTO DES VOEUX ROAD WEST EASTBOUND.
t CENTRE STREET BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH DES VOEUX ROAD WEST AND A POINT ABOUT 20 METRES TO THE NORTH. AND THE EASTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF EASTERN STREET BETWEEN CONNAUGHT ROAD WEST AND DES VOUEX ROAD WEST WILL BOTH BE MADE 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAYS.
IN ADDITION, THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF DES VOEUX ROAD WEST BETWEEN HOUSE NO. 185 AND CENTRE STREET AND THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF DES VOEUX ROAD WEST BETWEEN HOUSE NOS. 202 AND 208 WILL BE DESIGNATED URBAN CLEARWAYS ROUND-THE-CLOCK FOR ABOUT TWO WEEKS.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREAS.
0
717 ........
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 18. 1989
- 17 -
TEMPORARY URBAN CLEARWAY IN HENNESSY ROAD * » * * *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20). HENNESSY ROAD WESTBOUND BETWEEN BOWRINGTON ROAD AND TIN LOK LANE IN CAUSEWAY BAY WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY.
THIS MEASURE WILL BE IN FORCE FOR ABOUT ONE WEEK TO FACILITATE ROAD RESURFACING WORKS.
NO VEHICLES 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
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1?, 19^9
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
HK JOINTS INTERNATIONAL TRADE SEMINAR ...................... 1
LIVESTOCK WASTE DISPOSAL CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS RE-APPOINTED................................................... 2
RENT OFFICER SCHEME HANDLES OVER 1A,5OO ENQUIRIES .......... 3
NEW HARBOUR CROSSING A BOON FOR KWUN TONG .................. 5
MORE CULTURAL VENUES FOR EASTERN DISTRICT................... *F
ROAD SAFETY PLEA BY DISTRICT OFFICER ....................... 5
FREE. EYE CHECK-UP FOR ELDERLY IN NORTH DISTRICT............ 6
ATHLETIC MEET HELPS COMMUNITY BUILDING ..................... 6
SEMINAR ON ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT IN TSUEN WAN ..........
BUILDING MANAGEMENT SCHEME FOR KOWLOON CITY RESIDENTS ...... 7
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS KEEP CLEAN CAMPAIGN ON ISLANDS ..... 8
INSTRUCTORS' HONORARIUMS UNDER STUDY ....................... ’
ELDERLY SERVICES REACH A FAIRLY HIGH STANDARD ............... 9
ACTIVITIES TO PROMOTE LAND SPORTS SAFETY MESSAGES .......... 10
SINGAPORE POLICE OFFICER ASSOCIATION REPRESENTATIVES VISIT HK ........................................................... 11
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 19. 19«9
1
HK JOINS INTERNATIONAL TRADE SEMINAR t ♦ * *
HONG KONG WILL TAKE PART IN AN INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ON ASIA-PACIFIC CO-OPERATION IN TOKYO NEXT WEEK.
AT THE INVITATION OF JAPAN EXTERNAL TRADE ORGANISATION (JETRO). THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY. MR ANDREW LEUNG. AND A LEADING LOCAL INDUSTRIALIST. MR HENRY TANG. WILL PARTICIPATE IN THE SEMINAR TO BE HELD FROM NOVEMBER 27 TO DECEMBER I.
THE SIX-DAY "GLOBAL CONTRIBUTION SEMINAR" IS ORGANISED BY JETRO AND THE JAPAN ECONOMIC FOUNDATION (JEF) AND IS SUPPORTED BY' JAPAN’S MINISTRY OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND INDUSTRY’ (MITT).
THE PURPOSE OF THE SEMINAR IS TO OFFER A FORUM FOR THE ASIA-PACIFIC COUNTRIES TO EXCHANGE VIEWS ON VARIOUS ISSUES CONCERNING THE ECONOMY. INTERNATIONAL TRADE. INVESTMENT AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER.
IT IS ALSO HOPED THAT THE SEMINAR WILL FACILITATE THE PROMOTION OF INTER-REGIONAL CO-OPERATION IN THE COMING YEARS. LINKING IT WITH Till DEVELOPMENT OF 'HIE WORLD ECONOMY.
MR LEUNG AND MR TANG WILL BE REPRESENTING HONG KONG'S PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS RESPECTIVELY.
MR LEUNG WILL JOIN THE DISCUSSION SESSIONS ON "CURRENT AND FUTURE ISSUES ON TRADE INVESTMENT AND TECHNOLOGICAL TRANSFER IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION" AND "THE ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMY AND ISSUES OF ECONOMIC POLICY: Till PROCESSING STRUCTURAL ADJUSTMENT AND INDUSTRIAL POLICIES".
THE COUNTRIES PARTICIPATING IN THE SEMINAR INCLUDE THE UNITED STATES. CANADA. AUSTRALIA. NEW ZEALAND. KOREA. SINGAPORE. INDONESIA. MALAYSIA. THE PHILIPPINES. THAILAND AND BRUNEI.
MR LEUNG SAID HE HOPED HONG KONG CAN RENEV AND EXPAND ITS CONTACTS WITH MITI AND JETRO BY TAKING PART AND SHOWING ITS CONTINUED INTEREST IN SOLICITING JAPANESE INDUSTRIAL INVESTMENT.
ACCORDING TO THE LATEST SURVEY ON OVERSEAS INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG'S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES. JAPAN CONTINUES TO BE THE SECOND LARGEST SOURCE OF INVESTMENT. CONTRIBUTING 27 PER CENT OF TOTAL OVERSEAS INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG.
JAPAN INVESTED MORE IN HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIES IN 1988 THAN ANY OTHER INVESTING COUNTRIES.
"IF ITS PRESENT RATE OF INVESTMENT CONTINUES. IT MAY SOON CHALLENGE Till UNITED STATES WHICH HAS BEEN OCCUPYING THE FIRST POSITION FOR YEARS." MR LEUNG SAID.
0
/2........
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 19. 1989
2
LIVESTOCK WASTE DISPOSAL CONSULTATIVE
»***»♦
THE GOVERNMENT HAS RE-APPOINTED DISPOSAL CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE. WHOSE END OF THIS MONTH. FOR ANOTHER TERM OF
COMMITTEE MEMBERS RE-APPOINTED *
MEMBERS OF THE LIVESTOCK WASTE MEMBERSHIP WILL EXPIRE AT THE ONE YEAR FROM DECEMBER 1, 1989.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE, MR LEO KWAN, SAID THE PURPOSE OF THE COMMITTEE IS TO PROVIDE A FORMAL COMMUNICATION CHANNEL BETWEEN THE LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY AND GOVERNMENT REGARDING THE IMLEMENTATION OF THE LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL SCHEME.
HE PRAISED THE UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS FOR THEIR VALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS WHICH HELPED TO ENSURE THE SMOOTH IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SCHEME.
"THE UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS HAVE ASSISTED IN CONVEYING MESSAGES ABOUT ANY ACTION TAKEN AND PROPOSALS MADE BY THE GOVERNMENT REGARDING THE SCHEME TO THE AFFECTED LIVESTOCK FARMERS TO ENHANCE THEIR UNDERSTANDING AND ACCEPTANCE OF THE SCHEME.
"THEY ALSO REFLECTED TO THE GOVERNMENT THE VIEWS AND SUGGESTIONS EXPRESSED BY THE LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY." HE ADDED.
THE RE-APPOINTED UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS OF THE LIVESTOCK WASTE DISPOSAL CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE ARE AU YIU, CHAN HON-LAM. CHAN KWOK-WAI. CHAN YU-YUK, CHIU YU-PANG. FOK WUI-KO. FUNG CHOI-YUK, LEUNG CHI-WAH. LEUNG CHIK. LI HOI-YUK. LO SHUK-CHING, NG PO-WING, SO WING-HOI. TSE FAI. WONG CHUN-KAU, WONG SUI-FAN, YAU MING-TAK AND THE CHAIRMAN OF HEUNG YEE KUK OR HIS REPRESENTATIVE.
THE COMMITTEE IS CHAIRED BY MR KWAN, THE DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES.
OTHER MEMBERS INCLUDE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE PLANNING. ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS BRANCH. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT. AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT AND THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION.
THE COMMITTEE. TOGETHER WITH ITS SUB-COMMITTEES AND WORKING GROUPS. HAS HELD 17 MEETINGS SINCE DECEMBER LAST YEAR. IN ADDITION. THEY HAVE CARRIED OUT 15 VISITS TO PRIVATE FARMS TAKING PART IN THE DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS ON LIVESTOCK WASTE TREATMENT METHODS TO MONITOR THE PROGRESS OF THESE PROJECTS.
Z3 ........
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 19. 1989
RENT OFFICER SCHEME HANDLES OVER 14.500 ENQUIRIES ♦ * * * ♦
MORE THAN 14.500 PUBLIC ENQUIRIES ON TENANCY MATTERS WERE DEALT WITH UNDER THE RENT OFFICERS SCHEME DURING THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF THIS YEAR.
OF THESE. THE MOST COMMON PROBLEMS WERE RECOVERY OF PREMISES. EVICTION OF TENANTS. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS IN TENANCY DISPUTES. AND THE USE AND COMPLETION OF TENANCY FORMS.
UNDER THE SCHEME. RENT OFFICERS FROM THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT ARE ON DUTY AT SPECIFIC DISTRICT OFFICES TO ADVISE MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ON TENANCY MATTERS.
THE DISTRICT OFFICES PROVIDING SUCH SERVICES ARE CENTRAL AND WESTERN. EASTERN. SOUTHERN. WAN CHAI. KOWLOON CITY. KWUN TONG. MONG KOK. SHAM SHUI PO. WONG TAI SIN. YAU TSIM, KWAI TSING, TSUEN WAN, TUEN MUN AND YUEN LONG.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO SEEK ADVICE OR OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SERVICE MAY APPROACH ANY OF THE 67 PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRES OR THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SECTION AT CNTA HEADQUARTERS ON 29TH FLOOR. SOUTHORN CENTRE. 130 HENNESSY ROAD. WAN CHAI. OR TELEPHONE THE SECTION ON 5-8351510.
- - - - 0
NEW HARBOUR CROSSING A BOON FOR KWUN TONG
* * * * *
THE OPENING OF THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING AND THE COMPLETION OF ASSOCIATED ROAD WORKS WILL HAVE FAR-REACHING EFFECTS ON THE LONG-TERM DEVELOPMENT OF THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT. THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON. MR DAVID LAN, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
’’THE COMPLETION OF THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING, TOGETHER WITH THE OPENING OF THE JUNK BAY TUNNEL AT THE END OF 1990 AND THE COMPLETION OF THE TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL AND THE PHASES II AND III OF THE KWUN TONG BYPASS. WOULD PLACE KWUN TONG AT THE CENTRE OF A CIRCULAR TRAFFIC NETWORK, AND WOULD BOOST THE DISTRICT’S COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS." MR LAN SAID.
HE WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
MR LAN SAID CONCERN THAT THE OPENING OF THE NEW CROSSING WOULD WORSEN THE TRAFFIC SITUATION IN KWUN TONG HAD NOT MATERIALISED.
ON THE CONTRARY. TRAFFIC CONGESTION HAD EASED ON THE COMPLETION OF ASSOCIATED ROAD WORKS.
/HE NOTED .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 198?
4
HE NOTED THAT KWUN TONG WAS A FAST-DEVELOPING AREA, WHERE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS WOULD INCLUDE A RESIDENTIAL BUILDING WITH A COMMERCIAL CENTRE ON TOP OF THE LAM TIN MTR STATION. A BIG PRIVATE HOUSING ESTATE AT CHA KWO LING AND REDEVELOPMENT WORKS AT TSUI PING ANI LAM TIN ESTATES.
THE REDEVELOPMENT WORKS WOULD BE EXTENDED TO COVER KO CHIU ROAD. YAU TONG AND SAU MAU PING ESTATES.
"WITH THESE DEVELOPMENTS, MORE PUBLIC FACILITIES AND IMIROVFMENTS TO THE ENVIRONMENT, KWUN TONG WILL BECOME A MORE PROSPEROUS AND HAPPY HOME TO RESIDENTS,” HE SAID.
ON THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL, MR LAN SAID MORE THAN 30 DIFFERENT EVENTS WOULD BE HELD IN THE NEXT FOUR WEEKS TO CATER FOR THE NEEDS OF _RESIDENTS OF ALL AGES AND FROM DIFFERENT WALKS OF LIFE.
HE SAID MAKING THE FESTIVAL A SUCCESS OWED MUCH TO THE GENEROUS DONATIONS BY THE DISTRICT BOARD AND COMMUNITY LEADERS IN THE DISTRICT. AND TO THE CLOSE CO-OPERATION BETWEEN LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS.
A SPECIAL FEATURE OF THE FESTIVAL WAS THE DIRECT PARTICIPATION IN THE PREPARATION WORK FOR THE FESTIVAL BY THE 15 AREA COMMITTEES. THEY WOULD ALSO HOLD SPECIAL EVENTS IN THEIR AREAS IN SUPPORT OF THE FESTIVAL IN ORDER TO BRING THE FESTIVE ATMOSPHERE TO EVERY CORNER OF THE DISTRICT, HE ADDED.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING, THE PRESIDENT OF THE KWUN TONG FESTIVAL *90 ORGANISING COMMITTEE, MR LO CHING-HO, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE. MADAM YEUNG KAM-CHUN, THANKED ALL THOSE WHO HAD ASSISTED IN ORGANISING THE FESTIVAL. AND CALLED ON LOCAL RESIDENTS TO TAKE PART IN THE VARIOUS EVENTS.
MORE CULTURAL VENUES FOR EASTERN DISTRICT
* ♦ ♦ *
THE SAI WAN HO COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE AND THE CAUSEWAY BAY COMMUNITY CENTRE. WHICH ARE DUE TO OPEN SHORTLY. WILL PROVIDE ADDITIONAL VENUES FOR DISTRICT ORGANISATIONS TO STAGE CULTURAL ACTIVITIES.
THE DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON. MR FUNG KWOK-KEUNG. SAID THIS TODAY (SUNDAY) AT THE OPENING OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS FESTIVAL IN VICTORIA PARK.
HE SAID THE NEW VENUES WOULD OFFER A GREATER SCOPE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF ARTS AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT.
/THE ARTS .......
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 19. 1989
5
THE /ARTS FESTIVAL. WHICH WILL LAST UNTIL DECEMBER 3. IS BEING JOINTLY PRESENTED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL. THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE URBAN COUNCIL. WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD.
MR FUNG SAID CULTURAL ACTIVITIES FORMED AN INTEGRAL PART OF EVERYDAY LIFE. PROVIDING A DRIVING FORCE FOR BETTER LIVING.
SUCH ACTIVITIES ALSO REFLECTED THE CULTURAL STANDARD OF SOCIETY. HE SAID. AND THUS CULTURAL LIFE WAS OF GREAT SIGNIFICANCE TO FAST-DEVELOPING HONG KONG.
MR FUNG PRAISED THE EASTERN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL FOR VIGOROUSLY PROMOTING ARTS AND CULTURE IN THE DISTRICT SINCE ITS ESTABLISHMENT IN 1985.
IN THE NEXT TWO WEEKS, A VARIETY OF CULTURAL PROGRAMMES WILL BE OFFERED FOR RESIDENTS. INCLUDING A FILM SHOW. A CONCERT BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT CHILDREN’S CHOIR. CANTONESE OPERA PERFORMANCE AND AN ORCHESTRAL PERFORMANCE.
--------0-----------
ROAD SAFETY PLEA BY DISTRICT OFFICER *****
THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT OFFICER. MR DUNCAN PESCOD. TODAY (SUNDAY) CALLED ON RESIDENTS TO PLAY A MORE ACTIVE ROLE IN THE PROMOTION OF ROAD SAFETY.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE DISTRICT’S ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN CARNIVAL \T THE ARGYLE STREET PLAYGROUND. MR PESCOD URGED RESIDENTS TO ASSIST IN PUBLICISING ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF TRAFFIC MISHAPS.
HE POINTED OUT THAT TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS WERE SOMETIMES UNAVOIDABLE IN A BUSY PLACE SUCH AS THE DENSELY-POPULATED KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT.
NOTING THAT THE DISTRICT IS SITUATED AT THE CENTRE OF A BUSY TRAFFIC SYSTEM. NORTH TO THE LION ROCK TUNNEL AND SOUTH TO THE CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL. MR PESCOD SAID A CAMPAIGN WAS NEEDED TO FOCUS LOCAL PEOPLE’S ATTENTION TO THE IMPORTANCE OF ROAD SAFETY.
A SERIES OF ACTIVITIES. INCLUDING A CHINESE CALLIGRAPHY COMPETITION. A COLOURING COMPETITION. AN EDUCATION PROGRAMME FOR THE ELDERLY. A MODEL PEDESTRIAN ELECTION AND A ROAD SAFETY EXHIBITION. HAD ALREADY BEEN HELD IN THF DISTRICT IN SUPPORT OF THE CAMPAIGN. HE SA I D.
“AS THE NUMBER OF CASUALTIES INVOLVING THE ELDERLY IS COMPARATIVELY HIGH. MOTORISTS SHOULD F’AY MORE ATTENTION TO ELDERLY PEOPLE USING THE ROAD." HE ADDED.
/ALSO ATTENDING .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1989
6
ALSO ATTENDING THE CEREMONY TODAY WERE THE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR WONG SIK-KONG: POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER. MR DAVID DEPTFORD: CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE. MR CHAN CHI-KWAN: AND KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN ORGANISING COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN. MR CHIANG SAI-CHEONG.
THE CARNIVAL ATTRACTED MORE THAN 3.000 LOCAL RESIDENTS.
--------0
FREE EYE CHECK-UP FOR ELDERLY IN NORTH DISTRICT *****
ABOUT 300 ELDERLY RESIDENTS IN FANLING AND TA KWU LING OF THE NORTH DISTRICT WERE GIVEN FREE EYE CHECK-UPS BY OPTOMETRISTS TODAY (SUNDAY) AT THE CHEUNG WAH COMMUNITY HALL IN FANLING.
ORGANISED BY THE NORTH DISTRICT’S CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE ON ELDERLY ACTIVITIES WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD, THE EVENT WAS AIMED AT EDUCATING SENIOR RESIDENTS ON PROPER EYE CARE.
TODAY’S PROGRAMME INCLUDED A SEMINAR ON EYE CARE AND AN EXHIBITION ON THE PREVENTION OF CATARACT.
SIMILAR EYE CHECK-UPS WILL BE ORGANISED FOR 300 SENIOR RESIDENTS IN SHEUNG SHUI AND SHA TAU KOK ON NOVEMBER 26 IN THE NORTH DISTRICT TOWN HALL TN SHEUNG SHUI.
0---------
ATHLETIC MEET HELPS COMMUNITY BUILDING *****
IT IS HOPED THAT PEOPLE LIVING IN SAI KUNG - LONG TIME RESIDENTS AS WELL AS NEWCOMERS WOULD GET TO KNOW EACH OTHER BETTER THROUGH PARTICIPATING IN SPORTS. THE ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MISS LISA CHAN. SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE DISTRICT’S ATHLETIC MEET.
MISS CHAN SAID AS MORE AND MORE URBAN PEOPLE MOVED INTO THE AREA. SPORTS GATHERINGS COULD HOPEFULLY TURN INTO ’’GETTING TO KNOW YOU” OCCASIONS.
THE 1989 SAI KUNG DISTRICT ATHLETIC MEET WAS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT’S SPORTS ASSOCIATION. THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL.
ABOUT 200 PARTICIPANTS FROM VARIOUS SCHOOLS, ORGANISATIONS AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS COMPETED IN 48 EVENTS. WHICH INCLUDED HIGH JUMP, LONG JUMP. TRIPLE JUMP. SHOT-PUT, DISCUS THROWING, JAVELIN THROWING. RELAY AND HURDLE RACES.
0
/7 ........
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 19. 1989
SEMINAR ON ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT IN TSUEN WAN
*****
A SEMINAR ON ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT FOR TENANTS AND OWNERS OF SELECTED BUILDINGS IN TSUEN WAN WILL BF HELD ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 21) EVENING.
ORGANISED BY X DISTRICT BOARD WORKING GROUP. THE SEMINAR IS AIMED AT PROMOTING PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE PROBLEMS 01 OLD PRIVATE BUILDINGS.
A NUMBER OF BUILDINGS AT HO PUI STREET HAVE BEEN SELECTED BY THE WORKING GROUP FOR A P1 LOT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.
THE SEMINAR WILL BEGIN AT 8.30 PM IN THE ANCILLARY HALL OF THE CHUEN YUEN CHURCH. 2-4 TAI UK STREET. TSUEN WAN.
REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT. THE TSUEN WAN POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS OFFICE AND THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE WILL BE GUEST SPEAKERS.
-----0------
BUILDING MANAGEMENT SCHEME FOR KOWLOON CITY RESIDENTS
*****
KOWLOON ( ITY DISTRICT RESIDENTS WILL BE ABLE TO BRUSH UP THEIR BUILDING MANAGEMENT KNOWLEDGE BY JOINING A BUILDING MANAGEMENT FORERUNNERS SCHEME BEING ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICE.
THE SCHEME. COMPRISING TALKS. A VISIT AND A SEMINAR. WILL BE HELD ON DECEMBER 7 AND H. IT WILL FOCUS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF BUILDING MAINTENANCE AND IS OPEN TO OFFICE BEARERS OF OWNERS CORPORATIONS IN THE DISTRICT.
RESIDENTS WISHING TO JOIN THE SCHEME MAY CONTACT t'HE KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT OFFICE AT 141 KAU PU 1 LUNG ROAD. TO KWA WAN. ENQUIRIES CAN BF MADE ON TEL. 3-7110171 EXT. 50.
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/8 ........
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 19. 1989
8
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS KEEP CLEAN CAMPAIGN ON ISLANDS * t * * * *
THE COMMUNITY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE DETAILED PROGRAMME FOR THE DISTRICT’S KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (MONDAY).
THE CAMPAIGN TO BE HELD TN JANUARY WILL INCLUDE CLEAN-UP ACTIVITIES AT THE EIGHT R.URAI AREAS IN THE ISLANDS DISTRICT. A SLOGAN COMPETITION TO PUBLICISE THE CAMPAIGN WAS HELD LAST MONTH AND A TOTAL OF 70 ENTRIES WERE RECEIVED.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE FORTHCOMING CIVIC EDUCATION CAMP TO BE HIM I) AT METHODIST SILVERMINE BAY CENTRE. MUI WO FROM DECEMBER 1 TO 3. THIS WILL BE A DISTRICT ACTIVITY IN SUPPORT OF THE TERR I TORY-WIDE YOUTH FESTIVAL.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE THE PROPOSED ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD NEWSLETTER AND THE ALLOCATION 01 DB FUNDS FOR CIVIC EDUCATION AND RELATED ACTIVITIES.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO ('OVER THE MEETING OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY AFI AIR’S COMMITTEE TO BEGIN AT 2.15 UM TOMORROW (MONDAY! IN THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM. 20TH FLOOR. HARBOUR BUILDING. 38 PIER ROAD. CENTRAL.
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INSTRUCTORS’ HONORARIUMS UNDER STUDY t t ♦ * *
THE CULTURE. RECREATION AND SPORTS COMMITTEE OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD WILL. AT A MEETING ON TUESDAY' (NOVEMBER <311. S1UDY PAPER ON THE SCALE OF HONORARIUMS FOR INSTRUCTORS OF TRAINING AND INTEREST CLASSES RUN BY LOCAL ORGANISATIONS.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO LOOK INTO THE SCALE OF REMUNERATION FOR PART-TIME STAFF ENGAGED IN RECREATION AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES SPONSORED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD.
/ALSO. THEY ........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1989
9
ALSO, THEY WILL CONSIDER 24 APPLICATIONS FOR DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS BY VARIOUS LOCAL ORGANISATIONS FOR CARRYING OUT CULTURE, RECREATION AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD’S CULTURE. RECREATION AND SPORTS COMMITTEE TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 21) IN THE DISTRICT BOARD CONFERENCE ROOM. SECOND FLOOR, SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 34 CHAN MAN STREET, SAI KUNG TOWN.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM.
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ELDERLY SERVICES REACH A FAIRLY HIGH STANDARD » ♦ * * *
HONG KONG’S ELDERLY SERVICES HAVE REACHED A FAIRLY HIGH STANDARD WITH THE PROVISION OF A WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES. THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF SOCIA1 WELFARE. MR KWOK KA-CHI. SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
SPEAKING AT A FUNCTION FOR THE ELDERLY IN CHEUNG CHAU. MR KWOK SAID THE GOVERNMENT AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES HAD MADE GREAT EFFORTS TO PROVIDE AND DEVELOP ELDERLY SERVICES TO MEET THE CHANGING NEEDS.
”HONG KONG IS EXPERIENCING A GROWING ELDERLY POPULATION. ACCORDING TO THE 1986 BY-CENSUS. 11.6 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL POPULATION WERE OVER THE AGE OF 60.
"IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT IN 2001. ELDERLY PEOPLE WILL ACCOUNT FOR 15.5 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL POPULATION.” HE SAID.
MR KWOK POINTED OUT THAT IT WOULD BE MOST IDEAL FOR THE ELDERLY TO LIVI WITH AND BE TAKEN CARE OF BY THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS.
’TO ENCOURAGE AND ASSIST FAMILIES TO LOOK AFTER THEIR ELDERLY MEMBERS. A RANGE OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES ARE PROVIDED.” MR KWOK SAID.
'THESE INCLUDE COMMUNITY NURSING CARE. DAY CARE CENTRES. HOME HELP SERVICE AND SOCIAL CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY.”
ON THE OTHER HAND. RESIDENTIAL SERVICES WERE ALSO PROVIDED FOR THOSE IN NEED. INCLUDING COMPASSIONATE REHOUSING. HOSTELS. HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY AND CARE AND ATTENTION HOMES. HE SAID.
/’’IN ADDITION
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1989
10 -
"IN ADDITION. THE GOVERNMENT IS NOW CARRYING OCT AN EXPERIMENTAL PROJECT TO BUY PLACES FROM PRIVATE HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY WHICH CAN MEET OUR REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS.
'THE AIM OF THE PROJECT IS TO ENCOURAGE OPERATORS TO RAISE THE STANDARD OF SERVICES TO AN ACCEPTABLE LEVEL." HE SAID.
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ACTIVITIES TO PROMOTE LAND SPORTS SAFETY MESSAGES »*♦»»»
HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE TODAY (SUNDAY) TOOK PART IN THE 1989 LAND SPORTS SAFETY DAY IN THE SAI KUNG COUNTRY PARK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SAFE WAY IN PURSUING VARIOUS LAND SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES.
ORGANISED BY THE COMMITTEE ON SAFETY IN OUTDOOR PURSUITS, THE LAND SPORTS SAFETY DAY AIMED TO DISSEMINATE THE PLAY SAFE MESSAGE THROUGH ACTIVITIES SUCH AS HIKING, ROCK CLIMBING, ORIENTEERING AND TENT CAMPING TRAINING BY VARIOUS SPORTS ASSOCIATIONS.
OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDED A MOUNTAIN RESCUE DEMONSTRATION, A QUIZ AND DISPLAYS AT THE PO LEUNG KUK HOLIDAY CAMP.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE. MR AUGUSTINE CHUI. SAID MORE AND MORE PEOPLE NOW SPENT THEIR LEISURE TIME ON WALKING, HIKING AND CAMPING. AS A RESULT THE CHANCES OF ACCIDENTS HAD BECOME GREATER.
NOTING THAT MANY OF THESE ACCIDENTS COULD HAVE BEEN AVOIDED IF SOME BASIC SAFETY PRECAUTIONS HAD BEEN OBSERVED. MR CHUI URGED PARTICIPANTS IN SPORTS ACTIVITIES TO DEVELOP A HABIT OF TAKING THE NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS AS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE SPORTS.
HE HOPED THE LEAFLET ON THE SAFETY CODES FOR VARIOUS LAND SPORTS PUBLISHED BY THE WORKING PARTI OF THE 1989 LAND SPORTS SAFETY DAY WOULD PROVIDE USEFUL GUIDELINES FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
ALSO TAKING PART IN TODAY'S EVENT WERE REPRESENTATIVES FROM VARIOUS SPORTS ASSOCIATIONS.
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/Il ........
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 19. 1989
- 11 -
SINGAPORE POLICE OFFICER ASSOCIATION REPRESENTATIVES VISIT HK ♦ * t * ♦
FOUR JUNIOR POLICE OFFICER ASSOCIATION REPRESENTATIVES OF THE REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE POLICE HAVE VISITED HONG KONG TO STUDY THE WELFARE FACILITIES AND WORKING CONDITIONS OF THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE.
THE DELEGATION. LED BY MR LIM AH SOON. PRESIDENT OF THE JPOA. STAYED IN HONG KONG FOR FIVE DAYS.
"POLICE WORK IN SINGAPORE HAS BECOME MORE DEMANDING AS A RESULT OF THE INCREASE OF POPULATION. HIGH EXPECT1ON FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND SPECIALISATION PROGRAMMES WITHIN THE CIVIL SERVICE.” MR LIM SAID.
"KNOWING THE STRESS. WE FEEL THAT THE JUNIOR POLICE OFFICERS WHO ARE USUALLY THE FRONT LINE MEN IN MAINTAINING LAW AND ORDER. SHOULD BE ENTITLED TO HAVE GOOD SOCIAL AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES.
"WE ARE GREATLY IMPRESSED BY THE HIGH MORALE OF THE MEMBERS IN THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE AND EVERYONE WE HAVE MET HAS BEEN HELPFUL AND COURTEOUS.
THE RATIONALE BEHIND OUR VISIT IS TO LEARN SOMETHING FROM THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE IN ORDER TO BOOST THE MORALE OF OUR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS.
'ALTHOUGH POLICE OFFICERS ARE BETTER PAID THAN OTHER DISCIPLINES IN OUR CIVIL SERVICE. WE ALSO EXPERIENCE SOME DIFFICULTIES IN RECRUITING NEW OFFICERS.
"WE HAVE FOUND THAT PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE WELFARE FACILITIES AND GOOD WORKING CONDITIONS OF SERVICE CAN HELP TO BUILD UP THE UNIQUE SENSE OF BELONGING IN A DISCIPLINED ESTABLISHMENT.
"THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE HAS BEEN REGARDED AS VERY SUCCESSFUL IN THESE ASPECTS AND SETS A GOOD EXAMPLE I OR US TO FOLLOW SUIT."
WITH RESPECT TO THE MANAGEMENT STYLE OF THE CUB HOUSES OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE. MR LIM APPRECIATED THE HIGH PROFESSIONAL STANDARD ATTAINED.
"WE ARE NOW TRYING TO IMPLEMENT A CORPORATE MANAGEMENT STYLE AND ALLOW PROFESSIONAL PEOPLE. TO RUN THE CLUB HOUSES IN ORDER TO PROVIDE QUALITY SOCIAL AND RECREATIONAL SERVICES TO OUR MEMBERS." HE SAID.
VISITS TO THE WELFARE BBANCH HEADQUARTERS■ PERSONNEL BRANCH, STAFI RELATIONS UNIT, POLICE OFFICERS’ CLUB. POLICE SPORTS AND RECREATION CLUB, FORCE CATERING UNIT, HOI J DAV HOMES AM) KA J TAK DISCIPLINED SERVICES SPORT CENTRE WERE INCLUDED IN THE VISITORS' ITINERARY,
/THEY MET
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1989
12
THEY MET MR GEOFF ROPER. DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PERSONNEL: MR DAVID LOW. CHIEF FORCE WELFARE OFFICER: MR TSUI WAI-CHUN. CHAIRMAN OF THE JUNIOR POL.ICE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION: AND OTHER PERSONNEL OF THE FORCE TO DISCUSS THE ORGANISATION OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE. WELFARE SERVICES PROVIDED BY DEVELOPMENT. STAFF RELATION MATTERS. MANAGEMENT OF CLUB HOUSES AND THE FORCE CATERING ORGANISATION.
THE SINGAPORE GROUP - COMPLETED BY MESSRS SINGARAM KALIDAS. DAVID NG AND GEORGE MATHEWS - SENT THEIR COMPLIMENTS TO THE FORCE BEFORE LEAVING HONG KONG. MR LIM SAID 'WE EXPRESS OUR HEARTY GRATITUDE TO THE OFFICERS FOR THEIR WARM HOSPITATLITY DURING OUR VISIT".
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
MUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 19^9
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
ERA OF DYNAMIC CHANGES FUR HK ENVISAGED ..................... 1
BILL TO STEP UP SAFETY AT WORK............................... 3
SECRETARY FOR SECURITY REFUTES UNHCR ALLEGATIONS ............ 4
PROCESSING OF IVORY EXPORT LICENCE APPLICATIONS EXPEDITED ... 6
HEALTH EXHIBITION OPENS AT CITY HALL ........................ 7
PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION ON SOUTH POLE ....................... R
PICTURES SHOW ATTRACTIONS OF ISLANDS ........................ 9
DRAFT NGAU CHI WAN OZP ON DB AGENDA ......................... 9
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS LANGUAGE IMPROVEMENT MEASURES ....... 10
HAWKING ACTIVITIES ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA ................... 11
DB FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR APPLICATION .......................... 11
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS WORK TARGETS ........................ 12
SEARCH AND RESCUE TRAINING COURSE STARTS TODAY .............. 13
DTC REGISTRATION REVOKED..................................... 1^
SEARCH FOR BEST COUNTRYSIDE TREE NOW ON ..................... 1^
BOOKLET ON SEWAGE STRATEGY PUBLISHED ........................ 15
WATER STORAGE FIGURE......................................... 16
FRESH WATER CUT IN SHEUNG WAN ............................... 16
WATER CUTS IN TWO AREAS ..................................... 16
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON LUNG CHEUNG ROAD........... 17
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 20. 1989
1
ERA OF DYNAMIC' CHANGES FOR HK ENVISAGED * I ♦ ♦ t
THE RELOCATION Ol PORT AND AIRPORT FACILITIES TO THE WEST OF THE TERRITORY WILL GIVE A FACELIFT TO METROPOLITAN HONG KONG BY THE END OF Till CENTURY . THE SEC 'RETARA FOR PLANNING. ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS. MR GRAHAM BARNES. SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
BY THEN. THE TERRITORY WILL ALMOST BE FULLY CONVERTED FROM A BASIC EXPORT AND MANUFACTURI NG ECONOMY INTO A PORT-LED. SERVICES ECONOMY. BIG IN ASIA. BUT ESPEC I ALLY IN RELATION TO CHINESE TRADE AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS.
MR BARNES WAS SPEAKING ON ’THE SHAPE OF HONG KONG AFTER PADS” AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF Till 24TH CONVENTION OF THE INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF \SI AN AND WESTERN PACIFIC CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATIONS.
LOOKING TO THE TURN OF THE CENTURY. MR BARNES SAID MANY IMPORTANT FEATURES OF THE METROPLAN WOULD START TO SURFACE.
"WE WILL GET Till BEGINNINGS OF REAL URBAN IMPROVEMENTS IN OUR RENEWAL AND WE WILL PRODUCE MORE GLITTER.” HE SAID.
BY THAT TIME. TSI NG Yl SHOULD BE THE LANDING POINT OF FIVE BRIDGES AND ONE TUNNEL. WITH ITS SOUTHEAST COAST OCCUPIED BY CONTA I NEK OPERATIONS.
TH) TWO VALLEYS IN TUNG CHUNG \ND TAI HO IN NORTH LANTAU BE NEW TOWNS IK THE MAKING.
WOULD
THE NORTHFAST CORNER OF LANTAU WOULD BE ALMOST COMPLETELY LEVELLED AND AN EXTFNS1VI RECLAMATION WOULD EXTEND SOUTHWARD TOWARDS PENG CHAU IN WHICH TWO OR THREE CONTAINER TERMINALS WOULD ALREADY BE OPERATING. HI SAID.
"I BELIEVE THAT THE EXISTING COUNTRY PARKS WILL SURVIVE THIS ACTIVITY WELL. AND WILL REMAIN FOR MANY YEARS TO BE AILABLL FOR RECREATION. ’ MR BARNES SAID.
HE ALSO EXPECTED THE CASTLE PEAK ROAD TOWNSHIPS SUCH AS SHAM TSENG. TSING LUNG TAU AND TAI LAM CHUNG TO BE HIGHLY URBANISED.
"THE MAI PO MARCHES WILL. BIRDS WILL Bl HAVING TO TOLERATE TRAFFIC AT LOK MA CHAU AND RIVER ESTUARY.” HE SAID.
HOPEFULLY. STILL BE MARSHES. BUT THE A MUCH LARGER AMOUNT OF BOTH ROAD TRAFFIC IN THE SHENZHEN RIVER AND
MR BARNES SAID TAI PO AND SAI KUNG. BOTH LOW DENSITY HOUSING DISTRICTS. WOULD HAVE THEIR COUNTRY PARK AREAS WELL SECURED.
MEANWHILE. THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION WOULD BECOME THE TRANSPORT SPIN! OF THE KOWLOON PENINSULA. ADDING ABOUT A THIRD TO THE LAND AREA OF THE PENINSULA.
/"MOST OF .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1989
'MOST OF THE OLD YAU MA TEI
LARGER COMPREIIENSIVE DEVELOPMENTS
WILL BE GONE
BUILT BY THE
AND REPLACED BY
LAND DEVELOPMENT
CORPORATION." HE SAID.
IN EAST KOWLOON. MR BARNES SAID. LARGER AREAS OF RECLAMATION WOULD SURROUND THE OLD KAI TAK RUNWA\ AND FORM A MASS OF LAND ALMOST EQUAL TO THE SIZE OF KOWLOON PENINSULA NOW.
"IN THE AREAS BEHIND THE AIRPORT. WITH HEIGHT LIMITS THEN RELEASED AND MODIFIED. THE SKYLINE OF KOWLOON WILL BE CHANGING AND MAJOR REPLANNING WILL BE HAVING SOME EFFECT ON THE GENERAL ENVIRONMENT." HE SAID.
BESIDES. A CONSIDERABLE NUMBER OF OLDER PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES IN THE NORTHEAST KOWLOON WOULD BE REPLACED BY MODERN ESTATES WITH MORE CONCENTRATED AND BETTER SHOPPING CENTRES AND \MENITY AREAS.
THE (’ENTRI' OF KWUN TONG WOULD LOOK MORE SHABBY AND OBSOLETE AS THE ESTATES AROUND IT WERE PROGRESSIVELY REDEVELOPED WITH MORE MODERN COMPLEXES.
v MOVING A LITTLE FURTHER ON FROM KWUN TONG. TSEUNG KWAN O WILL BE ALMOST FULLY DEVELOPED WHICH COULD WELL BE THE MOST PLEASANT NEW TOWN IN HONG KONG.
ON PLANNING FOR EFFICIENT MODERN INDUSTRIAL AREAS. MR BARNES SAID: "I THINK THAT IN JO YEARS* TIME WE WILL ONLY BE BEGINNING TO SOLVE THE MAJOR PROBLEM OF RENEWAL OF THE URBAN INDUSTRIAL AREAS."
HE SAID ’IBIS COULD BE ACHIEVED EITHER BY EXTENSION OF THF LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION’S WORK TO INDUSTRY OR THROUGH SOME OTHER AGENCY AND THAT Illi SITUATION IN THEM WAS LIKELY TO BE FAR I ROM TIDY.
ON HONG KONG ISLAND. MR BARNES SAID Till CENTRE ol BUSINESS WOULD PROBABLY HAVE MOVED INTO THE TAMAR AREA.
"APART FROM THE CENTRAL AND WAN CHAI RECLAMATION WHICH IS VERY LARGE. CHANGES ARE LIKELY TO BE LOCAL AND MAY WELL BE, IN III! HANDS OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION WHICH WILL TRANSFORM THE WESTERN END OF CENTRAL. AND TO A LESSER EXTENT. WAN CHAI." HE SAID.
ANOTHER IMPORTANT FEATURE. MR BARNES SAID. WOULD BE MORE HARBOUR LINKS INCLUDING RAIL LINKS.
"BOTH THE CENTRAL AND WAN CHAI DEVELOPMENT AND THE AIRPORT PREDICATE CROSS HARBOUR RAIL LINKS. WHICH WHEN DEVELOPED. WILL MAKE HONG KONG INTO A MUCH MORE RAIL-DEPENDENT CITY THAN IT IS NOW.
"EVEN ABERDEEN SHOULD HAVE SOME KIND OF A RAIL LINK BY THEN. WHICH SHOULD HELP STIMULATI DEVELOPMENT IN POK FU LAM AND BELCHER’S BAY." HE SAID.
/ON THE ........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1989
3
ON THE ENVIRONMENT FRONT. MR BARNES SAID WATER POLLUTION OF THE SOUTHERN WATERS SHOULD BE VERY MUCH REDUCED AND THE BEACHES SHOULD HAVE GOOD BATHING ONCE AGAIN FOLLOWING THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN INTERCEPTING SEWER ACROSS THE SOUTH OF THE ISLAND AND WITH KOWLOON SEWAGE EFFECTIVELY TREATED AT STONECUTTERS ISLAND.
WITH ALL THE WATER CONTROL ZONES ENFORCED FOR SEVERAL YEARS. THE SECRETARY BELIEVED HONG KONG WATERS SHOULD BE MUCH BETTER RY THEN.
•'THIS IS NOT PIE IN THF SKY: WE REALLY ARI IN REACH OF CONSIDERABLE IMPROVEMENT. ' HE SAID.
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BILL TO STEP UP SAFETY AT WORK *****
A BILL HAS BEEN INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCI I DEFINE CLEARLY THE DUTIES OF EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES IN THE AREA INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND TO REQUIRE EACH PARTY TO PLAY A PARI MAINTAINING A SAFE WORK PLACE. THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION MANPOWER, MR K.Y. YEUNG. SAID THIS I MONDAY I EVENING.
TO
OF
IN
AND
THF Bill AMENDING THF FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS ORDINANCE. VLSI' PROVIDED FOR CUSTODIAL PENALTIES AS SANCTIONS AGAINST SERIOUS OFFENCES.
MR YEUNG WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THF "CONFERENCE ON SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT - A JAPANESE: EXPERIENCE ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE JAPAN INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ASSOCIATION.
HE NOTED THAT THF PROBLEM OF INDUSTRIAL ACCIDI .IS HAD BEEN CONTAINED IN HIE MANUFACTUR1NG INDUSTRY. WHERE TUI NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS CAUSED BY POWER DRIVEN MACHINERY. THE LARGEST PROPORTION OF ACCIDENTS IN THE INDUSTRY. HAD DECREASED BY 37 PER CENT FROM 12,000 IN 197!) TO 7*500 IN 1988.
'BUT THE SITUATION IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY REQUIRES SPECIAL ATTENTION," HE ADDED.
'NOT ONLY HAS THE ABSOLUTE NUMBER OF 17,000 IN 1979 TO 27,000 IN 1988, OR BY AS MUCH THE ACCIDENT RATE HAS ALSO SHOT UP FROM 220 PER
ACCIDENTS RISEN FROM AS 58 PER CENT. BUT 1,000 WORKERS TO 370.
"THIS MEANS THAT LAS'I YEAR MORE THAN ONI IN THREE WORKERS WERE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT," MR YEI NG SAID.
CONSTRUCTION
"ALTHOUGH Till TO 58 IN 1988. THE INDUSTRY IS ABOUT 50
NUMBER OF FATALITIES HAS FALLEN FROM 95 IN 1979 RATE OF FATAL ACCIDENTS IN THE CONSTRUCTION TIMES THAT Ol MANUFACTURING," HF NOTED.
/MR YEUNG .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1989
MR YEUNG ATTRIBUTED THE ’’APPALLING SITUATION” TO GENERALLY POOR WORKING ENVIRONMENTS. THE LACK OR TOTAL ABSENCE OF SITE SUPERVISION AND THE PROFIT MOTIVE WHICH HAD DRIVEN DEVELOPERS AND CONTRACTORS TOWARDS THE ACHIEVEMENT OF VERY TIGHT TIME LIMITS.
CALLING ON EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES TO JOIN FORCES WITH THE GOVERNMENT TO IMPROVE THE SITUATION. HE SAID THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WAS CONCENTRAT I NG UI S RESOURCES ON THE INSPECTION OF CONSTRUCTION SITES AND “THIS IS BEGINNING TO HAVE SOME EFFECT ON REDUCING THE NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS DURING THE RAINY SEASON".
MR YEUNG URGED EMPLOYERS TO REVIEW THEIR PROCEDURES TO SEE IF THE MANAGEMENT OF WORK SITES COULD BE IMPROVED IN THE INTEREST OF SAFETY.
HE ALSO ASKED PRINCIPAL CONTRACTORS TO ENSURE COMMUNICATION AND COORDINATION ON THE WORK SITE WHILE SHOULD COOPERATE WITH THE MANAGEMENT IN ENSURING SAFETY.
EFFECTIVE
EMPLOYEES
HE ALSO TOLD THE 460 PARTICIPANTS TN THE CONFERENCE THAT HONG KONG HAD A LOT TO LEARN FROM JAPAN’S EXPERIENCE AS THE COUNTRY HAD THE BEST SAFETY RECORD IN THE ASIA PACIFIC’ REGION. PARTICULARLY IN CONSTRUCTION.
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SECRETARY FOR SECURITY REFUTES UNHCR ALLEGATIONS
*****
THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY. MR GEOFFREY BARNES, TODAY I MONDAY I REFUTED "UNFOUNDED" ALLEGATIONS BY THE UNHCR THAT UNDUE FORCE WAS USED DURING THE TRANSFER OF 48 VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE FROM THE CHI M,Y WAN DETENTION CENTRE TO PHOENIX HOUSE.
REPLYING TO THE UNHCR ALLEGATION. MR BARNES POINTED OUT THAT THERE WAS NO TRUTH WHATSOEVER IN THE ACCUSATION THAT PEOPLE AT CHI MA WAN WERE RENDERED UNCONSCIOUS AND HAD TO BE REVIVED BY NURSES.
HE ALSO SAID THAT X-RAYS AND FURTHER MEDICAL REPORTS HAD CONFIRMED THAT NO FRACTURED RIB WAS SUSTAINED BY A VIETNAMESE AS HAD BEEN ALLEGED BY’ THE UNHCR.
MR BARNES' COMMENTS FOLLOWED AN EXAMINATION OF REPORTS RECEIVED FROM THE UNHCR.
I HELI EVIs THAT THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT ICSDI AND POLICE OFFICERS INVOLVED DISCHARGED THEIR DUTIES WITH GREAT RESTRAINT AND PATIENCE. HE SAID.
/MR BARNES .......
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 20, 1989
- 5 -
MR BARNES EXPLAINED THAT THE OFFICERS INVOLVED WERE DIRECTED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO MOVE THE 48 PEOPLE CONCERNED WITHOUT JEOPARDISING THE SAFETY OF THOSE DIRECTLY INVOLVED OR THE OTHER INMATES OF THE CHI MA WAN CAMP.
’THEY CARRIED OUT THIS POTENTIALLY DIFFICULT OPERATION WITHOUT SERIOUS INCIDENT." HE SAID.
"ONL^ A MINIMUM DEGREE OF FORCE WAS USED. THIS WAS ONLY EMPLOYED WHEN ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY AND THE SMALL NUMBER OF MINOR INJURIES RECEIVED BY SOME OF THE CSD OFFICERS AND THE VIETNAMESE TESTIFIES TO THIS."
COMMENTING ON SOME OF THE SPECIFIC POINTS MADE IN THE UNHCR REPORTS. MR BARNES SAID THAT ALL THOSE BOAT PEOPLE MOVED WERE EXAMINED BY MEDICAL OFFICERS AT CHI MA WAN AND AGAIN AT PHOENIX HOUSE.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE UNHCR’S OWN MEDICAL REPORTS CONFIRMED THOSE OF THE CSD MEDICAL OFFICERS IN THAT THEY GAVE DETAILS OF MINOR INJURIES RECEIVED BY FIVE VIETNAMESE.
THE MOST SERIOUS OF THE UNHCR’S INJURY REPORTS ALLEGED THAT ONE PERSON HAD SUSTAINED A FRACTURED RIB. HE SAID. AND X-RAYS AND FURTHER MEDICAL REPORTS HAD CONFIRMED THE ORIGINAL . ASSESSMENT THAT THIS WAS NOT THE CASE AND THAT NO FRACTURE WAS SUSTAINED.
MR BARNES ALSO REFUTED THE UNHCR’S ALLEGATIONS THAT PEOPLE AT CHI MA WAN WERE RENDERED UNCONSCIOUS AND HAD TO BE REVIVED BY NURSES.
"NONE WAS STUNNED OR BECAME UNCONSCIOUS OR WAS KNOCKED TO THE GROUND." HE SAID.
AS TO THE TIMING OF THE TRANSFER FROM THE HUTS. MR BARNES CLARIFIED THAT THE OPERATION BEGAN AT 6 AM. NOT 4 AM. AND DESCRIBED THIS AS "NOT AT ALL UNUSUAL" FOR MOVEMENTS FROM AN OUTER ISLAND TO A MAINLAND SITE.
HE EMPHASISED THAT THE OPERATION HAD BEEN PLANNED WITH GREAT CARE AS ON A PREVIOUS ATTEMPT. SOME WEEKS EARLIER. THE CSD HAD ENCOUNTERED IMMEDIATE THREATS OF VIOLENCE AND ARSON AND A FLAT REFUSAL BY BOAT PEOPLE TO MOVE FROM THEIR HUT.
"IT WAS THEREFORE ESSENTIAL ON THIS OCCASION TO EMPLOY SUFFICIENT STAFF TO ENSURE THE SAFETY BOTH OF THE PEOPLE TO BE MOVED AND OF ALL OTHER INMATES OF CHI MA WAN."
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/6.........
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 20. 1989
- 6 -
PROCESSING OF IVORY EXPORT LICENCE APPLICATIONS EXPEDITED »*«»*»
THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT (AFD1 WILL GIVE PRIORITY ATTENTION TO THE PROCESSING OF APPLICATIONS FROM IVORY TRADERS FOR EXPORT LICENCES IN ORDER TO HELP THEM EXPORT THEIR IVORY STOCKS EXPEDITIOUSLY.
A CONFERENCE OF THE CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES OF WILD FAUNA AND FLORA (CITES) PARTIES HELD IN LAUSANNE. SWITZERLAND. LAST MONTH DECIDED TO BAN THE INTERNATIONAL IVORY TRADE BETWEEN CITES PARTIES WITH EFFECT FROM JANUARY 18 NEXT YEAR.
THE BAN ALSO APPLIES TO HONG KONG’S EXISTING IVORY STOCK. WHICH AMOUNTS TO 670 TONNES. AS THE TERRITORY IS A PARTY TO CITES THROUGH THE UK’S MEMBERSHIP.
THE PROBLEM IS AGGRAVATED BY THE FACT THAT SOME CITES PARTIES WHICH ARE MAJOR MARKETS FOR HONG KONG’S IVORY EXPORTS. INCLUDING JAPAN. THE U.S. AND EC COUNTRIES. HAD CLOSED THE DOORS FOR IVORY IMPORTS SINCE JUNE.
THE GOVERNMENT HAS REQUESTED THE UK AUTHORITIES TO ENTER A SIX-MONTH RESERVATION TO THE CITES DECISION TO ALLOW LOCAL TRADERS ANOTHER 180 DAYS AFTER. JANUARY 18 TO DISPOSE OF THEIR EXISTING IVORY STOCK BUT THE UK HAD YET TO RESPOND.
IN A CIRCULAR ISSUED TO IVORY TRADERS TODAY (MONDAY). AFD'S SENIOR CONSERVATION OFFICER. MR M.K. CHEUNG. EXPLAINED THAT WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT. ALL APPLICATIONS FOR. IVORY EXPORT LICENCES WOULD BE GIVEN PRIORITY ATTENTION IN ORDER TO FACILITATE THE EXPORT OF EXISTING IVORY STOCKS TO COUNTRIES WHICH STILL ACCEPTED THEM DURING THE INTERIM PERIOD.
"UNDER THIS NEW ARRANGEMENT. IT MAY NORMALLY TAKE ONE TO TWO WORKING DAYS TO PROCESS AN APPLICATION PROVIDED THAT THE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS ARE IN ORDER AND CAN CLEARLY INDICATE THAT THE IVORY IN QUESTION ARE DERIVED FROM LEGAL AND CITES APPROVED SOURCES." MR CHEUNG SAID.
IN HONG KONG. LICENCES ARE REQUIRED FOR THE EXPORT OF BOTH RAW AND WORKED IVORY UNDER THE ANIMALS AND PLANTS (PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES) ORDINANCE. PREVIOUSLY. IT TOOK ABOUT SEVEN WORKING DAYS TO PROCESS APPLICATIONS FOR THE IVORY EXPORT LICENCES.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE NEW ARRANGEMENT FOR IVORY EXPORT LICENCES CAN BE DIRECTED TO THF DEPARTMENT’S FAUNA CONSERVATION SECTION ON TEL. 3-7332123 OR 3-7332124.
/7........
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 20. 1989
7 -
HEALTH EXHIBITION OPENS AT CITY HALL I * t ♦ t
MANY OF THE CHRONIC AND DEGENERATIVE DISEASES ARE CAUSED BY THE UNHEALTHY LIFESTYLE OF THE INDIVIDUAL. THE SENIOR PRO-VICE-CHANCELLOR AND PROFESSOR OF MEDICINE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG. PROFESSOR ROSIE YOUNG. SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
"HEALTH EDUCATION. THEREFORE. PLAYS A VERY IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE PREVENTION OF SUCH DISEASES.'' SHE SAID.
PROF YOUNG WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF A HEALTH EXHIBITION ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL HEALTH EDUCATION UNIT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.
WITH THE PROGRESS OF Till SOCIETY AND ADVANCEMENT TN MEDICINE. MOST OF THE INFECTIOUS DISIASES IN HONG KONG HAD BEEN BROUGHT UNDER CONTROL. PROF YOUNG SAID.
HOWEVER. THEY WERE SOON REPLACED BY SUCH HEART AILMENT AND DIABETES. SHE SAID.
DISEASES AS CANCER.
TO ENABLE THE PUBLIC TO HAVE A BETTER KNOWLEDGE OF THESE AND OTHER DISEASES. PROF YOUNG SAID THE CENTRAL HEALTH EDUCATION UNIT HAD. SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 1978. ORGANISED NUMEROUS HEALTH EDUCATION ACTIVITIES IN HONG KONG.
"THE SUCCESS OF THESE ACTIVITIES HAS TO DEPEND ON THE CO-OPERATION AND SUPPORT OF THE PUBI IC.’ SHE SAID.
TURNING TO PRIMARY HEALTH CARE IPHC). PROF YOUNG SAID AS TIME WENT BY. THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICES IN HONG KONG HAD UNDERGONE MANY CHANGES.
TO COPE WITH THE CHANGING NEEDS OF THE SOCIETY. A WORKING PARTY ON PRIMARY HEALTH CARP WAS SET UP IN AUGUST 'I HIS YEAR TO CONDUCT A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF HONG KONG'S PHC SERVICES.
"AT PRESENT. THE WORKING PARTY IS COLLECTING DATA AND OPINIONS FROM RELEVANT BODIES ON CONTROL OF DISEASES AND ON HEALTH EDUCATION.
"PRIOR TO SUBMITTING ITS RECOMMENDATION. THE WORKING PARTY WILL VISIT OTHER COUNTRIES TO STUDY PHC SYSTEMS THERE." SHE SAID.
ALSO SPEAKING AT THE EXHIBITION’S OPENING. THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH. DR S.H. LEE. SAID THE PURPOSE OF HEALTH EDUCATION WAS TO AROUSE PUBLIC INTEREST AND CONCERN ABOUT HEALTHY LIFESTYLE.
'THE THEME OF THE EXHIBITION 'LET’S TALK HEALTH' COINCIDES WITH THAT OF THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION (WHO) FOR THE YEAR 1989." HE SAID.
/"FROM THE .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1989
8
"FROM THE EXHIBITION. VISITORS WILL BE ABLE TO LEARN ABOUT HEALTHY LIFESTYLE WHICH IS SIGNIFICANT DURING THE FOUR STAGES OF LIFE - CHILDHOOD. YOUTH. ADOLESCENCE AND OLD AGE."
HE HOPED THAT VISITORS TO THE EXHIBITION WOULD HELP SPREAD HEALTH MESSAGES TO THEIR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES.
THE EXHIBITION AT IHE CITY HALL WILL BE OPEN BETWEEN 10.30 AM AND 6.30 PM DAILY UNTIL FRIDAY I NOVEMBER 24).
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PHOTOGRAPH IC EXHIBITION ON SOUTH POLE
A PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION ON THE SCENERY OF THE SOUTH POLE WILL BE STAGED IN WONG TAI SIN FROM TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
MORI I'll AN 4 0 PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN BY A RENOWNED PHOTOGRAPHER. MS REBECCA LEE. WILL BE ON DISPLAY IN THE EXHIBITION HALL OF THE NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE BETWEEN 10 AM AND 7 PM DAILY.
THE EXHIBITION. ADMISSION TO WHICH IS FREE. WILL CLOSE ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25).
JOINTLY ORGANISED B\ THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL AND THE URBAN COUNCIL WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD, THE EXHIBITION IS ONE OF THE MANY CULTURAL ACTIVITIES OF THE CURRENT DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
"AS THE SOUTH POLE IS POLLUTION-FREE AND A SYMBOL OF FRIENDSHIP. IT IS HOPED THA’l THROUGH THE EXHIBITION LOCAL WILL BECOME MORE CONCERNED ABOUT FRIENDSHIP AMONG PEOPLES NATURE." A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING SAID.
PEACE AND RESIDENTS
AND ABOUT COMMITTEE
MS LEE WILL SHARE THE EXPERIENCE OF HER VISIT TO THE SOUTH POLE WITH RESIDENTS 01 WONG TAI SIN BY GIVING A TALK AT THE LECTURE ROOM OF THE NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE ON SATURDAY. BEGINNING AT 4.30 PM.
ADMISSION TO THE TALK IS FREE.
/9 ........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1989
PICTURES SHOW ATTRACTIONS OF ISLANDS
*****
ABOUT 400 PHOTOGRAPHS SHOWING VARIOUS SCENIC SPOTS AND PLACES OF INTEREST ON THE OUTLYING ISLANDS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED BY THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD AS ENTRIES TO A PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE BOARD'S TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE.
THE PICTURES, PORTRAYING THE SCENERY, HISTORICAL MONUMENTS, CONSTRUCTIONS AND DEVELOPMENTS ON THE ISLANDS, AS WELL AS THE LIVELIHOOD OF THE ISLANDERS. WERE TAKEN IN THE DISTRICT’S EIGHT RURAL COMMITTEE AREAS.
WITH ASSISTANCE FROM THE CHEUNG CHAU PHOTOGRAPHY SOCIETY, THE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE INITIATED THE COMPETITION TO PROMOTE TOURISM ON THE ISLANDS.
THE ADJUDICATORS INCLUDE THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM WA1-KEUNG, DISTRICT OFFICER MR KIM SALKELD, TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN. MR YU YUEN-HEI. AND FOUR WELL KNOWN PHOTOGRAPHERS NOMINATED BY THE CHEUNG CHAU PHOTOGRAPHY SOCIETY.
THE WINNING ENTRIES WILL BE EXHIBITED AT SHUN TAK CENTRE, SHEUNG WAN ON JANUARY 5 TO 9 AND AT NEW WORLD CENTRE. TSIM SHA TSUI ON JANUARY 12 TO 14.
A SOUVENIR BOOKLET CONTAINING THE WINNING ENTRIES WILL BE PUBLISHED TO HELP PROMOTE TOURISM.
- - 0 - -
DRAFT NGAU CHI WAN OZP ON DB AGENDA *****
MEMBERS OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD WILL COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE DRAFT NGAU CHI WAN OUTLINE ZONING PLAN AT THE BOARD’S MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE AMENDMENTS INVOLVE INCORPORATING THE LAND-USE PROPOSALS IN THE NGAU CHI WAN VILLAGE LAYOUT PLAN INTO THE ZONING PLAN.
TOWN PLANNERS FROM THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT AND THE URBAN AREA DEVELOPMENT OFFICE OF THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT WILL ANSWER QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE AMENDMENTS.
IN ADDITION. MEMBERS WILL DISCUSS THE REVISED PLANNING BRIEF OF TSUI CHUK GARDEN. A PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION SCHEME AT CHUK YUEN WEST AREA.
/A WRITTEN
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1989
- 10 -
A WRITTEN REPLY FROM THE DIRECTOR OF HOSPITAL SERVICES ON "SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY" AND THE PLANNED HOSPITAL PROJECT IN DIAMOND HILL. AS WELL AS WRITTEN REPLIES FROM THE CONSUMER COUNCIL AND THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE ON "PROTECTION OF HEARING WILL BE TABLED FOR MEMBERS’ INFORMATION.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD MEETING TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) AT THE FUNG MING HALL OF WONG TAI SIN TEMPLE. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS LANGUAGE IMPROVEMENT MEASURES
*****
A REPORT ON LANGUAGE IMPROVEMENT MEASURES WILL BE TABLED FOR DISCUSSION AT THE MEETING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE COMMITTEE’S WORK TARGETS, MEETING SCHEDULE AND FINANCIAL POSITION.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE PROGRESS REPORTS FROM THE COMMITTEE’S WORKING GROUPS ON A YOUTH PROJECT, ON AN ELDERLY PROJECT AND ON THE SURVEY ON YOUTH BEHAVIOUR.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF TAI PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE. 152 KWONG FUK ROAD. TAI PO.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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/Il ........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1989
- 11 -
HAWKING ACTIVITIES ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA t ♦ ♦ ♦ *
THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE PROBLEM OF UNLICENSED HAWKERS IN NORTH POINT AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
RECENTLY THERE HAVE BERN COMPLAINTS THAT AN INCREASING NUMBER OF UNLICENSED HAWKERS TN THE AREA HAVE LED TO TRAFFIC CONGESTION AND DETERIORATION IN THE ENVIRONMENT.
THE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO CONSIDER WAYS TO ALLEVIATE NOISE NUISANCE CAUSED BY THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY TRAINS TO RESIDENTS IN TSUI WAN ESTATE. CHAT WAN.
OTHER AGENDA ITEMS INCLUDE PROPOSALS TO IMPROVE REFUSE COLLECTION POINTS AT PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES IN CHAT WAN AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS AT WAN TSUI ESTATE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM. FIRST FLOOR. 880-886 KING’S ROAD. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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DB FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR APPLICATION ♦ * ♦ ♦ t
VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS OR ELDERLY CENTRES IN THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT PLANNING TO ORGANISE ACTIVITIES FOR THE AGED IN THE REMAINDER OF THIS FINANCIAL YEAR CAN NOW APPLY FOR DISTRICT BOARD SUBSIDIES.
A CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (MONDAY) THAT IT WAS NOTED IN THE LAST MEETING OF THE DISTRICT BOARD’S FINANCE COMMITTEE THAT FUNDS ALLOCATED SO FAR THIS YEAR HAD BEEN SCARCELY USED FOR ACTIVITIES FOR SENIOR RESIDENTS IN THE DISTRICT.
"TO ENSURE A MORE BALANCED DEVELOPMENT OF COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION. THE COMMITTEE DECIDED TO AGAIN INVITE THE DISTRICT’S ELDERLY CENTRES TO APPLY FOR DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS.” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
/•'CONSIDERATION WILL
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1989
- 12 -
'’CONSIDERATION WILL ALSO BE GIVEN TO APPLICATIONS BY AGENCIES WITH A GOOD RECORD OF HOLDING EVENTS FOR THE AGED.”
VOLUNTARY HE ADDED.
APPLICATIONS. TOGETHER WITH BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FUNCTIONS. SHOULD REACH THE DB SECRETARIAT AT 11TH FLOOR. BUILDING. 38 PIER ROAD. CENTRAL. BEFORE DECEMBER 4.
PLANNED
HARBOUR
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 5-8523478.
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DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS WORK TARGETS
*****
MEMBERS OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S PROMOTION AND PUBLICITY COMMITTEE FOR 1989-91 WILL DISCUSS THEIR WORK TARGETS AT THE COMMITTEE’S FIRST MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THEY WILL ALSO CONSIDER SETTING UP A "WELCOME TO TAI PO” SIGN AT THE DISTRICT BOUNDARY IN LAM KAM ROAD.
THE FEASIBILITY OF CONSTRUCTING A VIP PARK IN THE DISTRICT. WITH THE INTENTION OF INVITING VIP’S TO PLANT TREES THERE. WILL BE DISCUSSED.
II
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE FIRST MEETING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S PROMOTION AND PUBLICITY COMMITTEE (1989-91) TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE DISTRICT BOARD CONFERENCE ROOM ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF TAI PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE. 152 KWONG FUK ROAD. TAI PO.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 9.30 AM.
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/13 ........
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 20. 1989
- 13 -
SEARCH AND RESCUE TRAINING COURSE STARTS TODAY *****
A SEARCH AND RESCUE TRAINING COURSE FOR LOCAL AND OVERSEAS GOVERNMENT OFFICERS LIKELY TO BE INVOLVED IN SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS BEGAN TODAY (MONDAY). THE COURSE WILL END ON DECEMBER 1.
THIRTY OFFICERS FROM HONG KONG AND NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES ARE PARTICIPATING. FOUR OF THEM ARE FROM THE CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT. SIX FROM THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE. 12 FROM THE MARINE POLICE. FOUR FROM THE MARINE DEPARTMENT AND THE REMAINING FOUR FROM MALAYSIA. SINGAPORE AND BRUNEI.
A SPOKESMAN FOR CAD SAID SUCH COURSES HAD PROVED TO BE OF GREAT VALUE IN TRAINING THE PARTICIPANTS TO BECOME SEARCH AND RESCUE MISSION CO-ORDINATORS AND IN UPDATING THEIR KNOWLEDGE AND TECHNIQUES IN SEARCH AND RESCUE.
FIVE MEMBERS FROM THE U.S. COAST GUARD. LED BY THE CHIEF OF NATIONAL SEARCH AND RESCUE SCHOOL. COMMANDER HANK BLANEY. WILL CONDUCT THE COURSE.
THE COURSE IS HELD AT THE TRAINING UNIT OF CAD’S AIR TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT DIVISION AT THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
ON COMPLETION OF THE COURSE. A SEARCH AND RESCUE EXERCISE ORGANISED BY CAD WILL BE HELD BETWEEN DECEMBER 5 AND 8 INVOLVING A NUMBER OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND SEARCH AND RESCUE UNITS FROM THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID: "THE MAIN OBJECTIVE OF THE EXERCISE IS TO TRAIN AND FAMILIARISE STAFF OF THE DEPARTMENT AND OTHER SUPPORTING UNITS WITH SEARCH AND RESCUE TECHNIQUES.
"IT WILL ALSO PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR REPRESENTATIVES FROM BOTH GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND EMERGENCY SERVICES FROM NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES TO PARTICIPATE IN THE EXERCISE AND TO CO-ORDINATE THEIR PROCEDURES.
"THE ALERTING AND CO-ORDINATING PROCEDURES AND COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES WILL ALSO BE TESTED." HE ADDED.
TAKING PART IN THIS YEAR'S SEARCH AND RESCUE EXERCISE WILL BE THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE. ROYAL NAVY. ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE. ROYAL AIR FORCE. CIVIL AID SERVICES. MARINE DEPARTMENT. FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT. GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES. THE U.S. AIR FORCE. NAVY AND COAST GUARD. AND THE JAPANESE MARITIME SAFETY AGENCY.
/14 .......
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 20. 1.989
14
DTC REGISTRATION REVOKED » ♦ * ♦
THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING ANNOUNCED THAT THE REGISTRATION OF SANWA-DSP CREDIT LIMITED AS A DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANY HAS BEEN REVOKED AT THE CLOSE OF BUSINESS TODAY (MONDAY) AT ITS OWN REQUEST UNDER SECTION 31(2) OF THE BANKING ORDINANCE.
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SEARCH FOR BEST COUNTRYSIDE TREE NOW ON t ♦ ♦ ♦
A SEARCH IS NOW ON FOR THE BEST TREE IN HONG KONG’S COUNTRYSIDE AND TREE LOVERS AS WELL AS COUNTRYSIDE VISITORS ARE WELCOME TO TAKE PART.
THIS IS THE IDEA OF THE "BEST COUNTRYSIDE TREE COMPETITION". ONE OF THE PROGRAMMES LINED UP FOR THIS YEAR’S CLEAN AND GREEN SCHEME.
THE SCHEME. FORMALLY LAUNCHED ON NOVEMBER 5. IS AN ANNUAL EVENT ORGANISED BY THE COUNTRY PARKS AUTHORITY. AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT (AFD). TO PUBLICISE THE MESSAGE OF THE NEED TO KEEP OUR COUNTRY PARKS CLEAN AND GREEN.
"THE OBJECTIVES OF THE COMPETITION IS TO ENCOURAGE THE PUBLIC T<> KNOW MORE ABOUT TREES AND BRING THEM TO REALISE THE IMPORTANCE OF CONSERVING THIS NATURAL ASSET OF OUR COUNTRYSIDE." THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES (CONSERVATION AND COUNTRY PARKS). MR FRANK LAI!. SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
ATTRACTIVE PRIZES. INCLUDING A CAMERA SET, CAMPING EQUIPMENT, HIKING EQUIPMENT AND SPORTING GOODS GIFT COUPONS ARE OFFERED TO WINNERS OF THE COMPETITION." MR LAP SAID.
ALTOGETHER, THERE ARE 10 PRIZES AND THEY ARE SPONSORED BY THE ROTARY CLUB. HONG KONG HARBOUR.
MR LAP SAID FUAT PARTICIPANTS MERELY HAD TO IDENTIFY A TREE WHICH THEY THOUGHT WAS THE BEST TN HONG KONG’S COUNTRYSIDE. TAKE A 3R •PHOTOGRAPH OF IT. AND RETURN THE PHOTOGRAPH. TOGETHER WITH A SIMPLE LOCATION MAP OF THE TREE AND A DULY COMPLETED ENTRY FORM. TO THE :orgANiser.
THE ENTRY FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT ALL COUNTRY PARK VISITOR CENTRES' AND THE AFD'S•CONSERVATION EDUCATION SECTION. EACH FORM CAN BE USED FOR ONE ENTRY ONLY.
'THE CRITERIA ON ADJUDICATION WILL RE RASED ON THE SPECIES. SIZE. HEALTH AND FORM OP TUI'; TREF. THE PANEL OF JUDGES WILL INCLUDE COCNTRY PARK BOARD MEMBERS AS WELL AS BOTANISTS AND THEIR DECISION WILL BE FINAL.
/"TF THE .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1989
- 15 -
"IF THE TREE SELECTED AS THE BEST IS NOMINATED BY MORE THAN ONE PARTICIPANT. THE WINNER WILL BE DETERMINED BY A LUCKY DRAW.” MR LAU SAID.
THE CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES IS FEBRUARY 28 NEXT YEAR AND WINNERS OF THE COMPETITION WILL BE INFORMED IN WRITING AROUND APRIL.
ENTRIES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE CONSERVATION EDUCATION SECTION. AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR. CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES. 393 CANTON ROAD. KOWLOON OR ANY COUNTRY PARK VISITOR CENTRE.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE COMPETITION CAN BE MADE ON 0-4200529 OR 3-7332121.
BOOKLET ON SEWAGE STRATEGY PUBLISHED
*****
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPDI HAS RECENTLY PUBLISHED AN EXPLANATORY BOOKLET ON THE SEWAGE TREAMENT AND DISPOSAL STRATEGY FOR THE WHOLE OF HONG KONG.
THE SEWAGE STRATEGY STUDY. COMMISSIONED BY THE DEPARTMENT. WAS CARRIED OUT BY WATSON HAWKSLEY CONSULTING ENGINEERS WHO ALSO PREPARED THE EXPLANATORY BOOKLET.
THE CONSULTANTS HAVE COME UP WITH A RECOMMENDED STRATEGY TO MEET THE NEEDS OF EXISTING DEVELOPMENTS AND THOSE PLANNED FOR THE NEXT TWO TO THREE DECADES.
THE STRATEGY HAS BEEN ADOPTED BY THE GOVERNMENT IN PRINCIPLE AND PLANS ARI IN HANI) TO IMPLEMENT IT IN STAGES.
AN EPD SPOKESMAN SAID THE BOOKLET WAS AIMED TO EXPLAIN TO THE PUBLIC. IN SIMPLE TERMS. THE NEED FOR SUCH A STRATEGY. RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE STUDY AND PROPOSED SOLUTIONS TO THE SEWAGE PROBLEM.
FREE COPIES OF THE BOOKLET CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE EPD ON THE 2«TH FLOOR. SOUTHORN CENTRE. 130 HENNESSY ROAD. WAN CHAI AND FROM VARIOUS DISTRICT OFFICES.
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/16 .......
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 20. 1989
- 16
WATER STORAGE FIGURE t ♦ * *
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 58.5 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 343.069 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 242.349 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER. REPRESENTING 11.3 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
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FRESH WATER CUT IN SHEUNG WAN t ♦ ♦ ♦
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN SHEUNG WAN ON HONG KONG ISLAND WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 11 PM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 22) TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE LEAKAGE TESTS.
THE AREA AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY KUI IN FONG. BRIDGES STREET. HOLLYWOOD ROAD POLICE QUARTERS. ABERDEEN STREET. 3-21 CHUNG WO LANE (ODD NUMBERS). 107-151 CAINE ROAD (ODD NUMBERS). INCLUDING PO HING FONG. SHING WONG STREET. WA IN FONG EAST. WA IN FONG WEST. PO WA STREET. WING LEE STREET. U LAM TERRACE, LADDER STREET BETWEEN CAINE ROAD AND BRIDGES STREET AND ROZARIO STREET.
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WATER CUTS IN TWO AREAS t * t t *
FRESH AND SALT WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN TSUEN WAN WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 9 AM TO 7 PM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 22) TO FACILITATE WATER WORKS.
THE AREA AFFECTED IS
BOUNDED BY WO YI HOP ROAD. FROM NGANG
ROAD TO CHEUNG PF I SHAN ROAD. INCLUDING CHEUNG PEI SHAN ROAD. ROUTE TWTSK. SHING MUN ROAD. LO WAI ROAD. YI PEI CHUN ROAD. HILLTOP ROAD WO YI HOI’ VILLAGE. 'HEUNG SHAN ESTATE. CHEUNG SHAN TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA. HOI PA RESITE VILLAGE. SAM TUNG UK VILLAGE. LO WAT CHUEN. YI PEI CHUN VILLAGE. FU YUNG SHAN TSUEN. SAN CHUEN, NA SIN PAI CHUEN SAI LAI' KOK CHUEN. PAK TIN PA TSUEN. MUK SIN HA TSUEN. CHUK LAM SIN YUEN. YUEN YUEN HOK YUEN. HILLTOP COUNTRY CLUB. TUNG PO TO. KWU HANG CHUEN. HO FUNG COLLEGE AND LI PANG SECONDARY
HOM
SCHOOL.
ON THE SAME: DAY. FRESH WATER KOWLOON TONG WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM LEAKAGE TEST.
SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN
I I PM TO 6 AM ON THURSDAY FOR A
THE AREA AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY BEACON HILL ROAD. EDE ROAD BROADCAST DRIVE: AND .JUNCTION ROAD. INCLUDING MARCONI ROAD. FESSENDEN ROAD. ALNWICK ROAD. EASTBOURNE ROAD. AND RHONDDA ROAD.
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/17........
MONDAY. NOVEMBER 20. 1989
- 17 -
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON * t ♦ t ♦
LUNG CHEUNG ROAD
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT IN ORDER TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FOOTBRIDGE ACROSS LUNG CHEUNG ROAD IN WONG TAI SIN NEAR PHOENIX HOUSE. TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 22) BETWEEN 1.15 AM AND 5.45 AM. 4
THE STRAIGHT-AHEAD MOVEMENT ON WESTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD NEAR THE SLIP ROAD LEADING TO CHUK YUEN ROAD WILL BE BANNED.
MOTORISTS ON WESTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD HEADING FOR KWAI CHUNG MAY-TRAVEL VIA CHUK YUEN ROAD. JUNCTION ROAD. WATERLOO ROAD. CORNWALL STREET. NAM CHEONG STREET AND WESTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD: AND THOSE HEADING FOR LION ROCK TUNNEL MAY TRAVEL VTA CHUK YUEN ROAD. JUNCTION ROAD. WATERLOO ROAD AND LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD.
THE SLIP ROAD LEADING FROM NORTHBOUND CHUK YUEN ROAD TO WESTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD WILL BE CLOSED.
MOTORISTS ON JUNCTION ROAD NORTHBOUND OR BROADCAST DRIVE SOUTHBOUND HEADING FOR KWAI CHUNG MAY TRAVEL VIA JUNCTION ROAD. WATERLOO ROAD. CORNWALL STREET. NAM CHEONG STREET AND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD WESTBOUND: AND THOSE HEADING FOR LION ROCK TUNNEL MAY TRAVEL VIA JUNCTION ROAD. WATERLOO ROAD AND LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD.
MOTORISTS ON FU MEI STREET WESTBOUND OR CHUK YUEN ROAD SOUTHBOUND HEADING FOR KWAI CHUNG MAY TRAVEL VIA CHUK YUEN ROAD. JUNCTION ROAD. WATERLOO ROAD. CORNWALL STREET. NAM CHEONG STREET AND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD WESTBOUND: AND THOSE HEADING FOR LION ROCK TUNNEL MAY TRAVEL VIA CHUK YUEN ROAD. JUNCTION ROAD. WATERLOO ROAD AND LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD.
THE SLIP ROAD LEADING FROM SOUTHBOUND LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD TO WESTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD WILL BE CLOSED.
MOTORISTS FROM SOUTHBOUND LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD HEADING FOR WESTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD MAY TRAVEL VIA WATERLOO ROAD. CORNWALL STREET. NAM CHEONG STREET AND WESTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD.
THE STRAIGHT-AHEAD MOVEMENT ON EASTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD NEAR LUNG PING ROAD WILL BE BANNED.
MOTORISTS FROM EASTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD HEADING FOR. WONG TAI SIN MAY TRAVEL VIA LUNG PING ROAD. FLYOVER. NAM CHEONG STREET. CORNWALL STREET. WATERLOO ROAD. JUNCTION ROAD. CHUK YUEN ROAD AND EASTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD: AND THOSE HEADING FOR LION ROCK TUNNEL MAY TRAVEL VIA LUNG PING ROAD. FLYOVER. NAM CHEONG STREET. CORNWALL STREET. WATERLOO ROAD AND LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD.
THE SOUTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF LUNG PING ROAD BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH LUNG CHEUNG ROAD AND A POINT ABOUT 50 METRES NORTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE CLOSED.
/MOTORISTS FROM .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1989
- 18 -
MOTORISTS FROM LUNG PING ROAD HEADING FOR EASTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD MAY TRAVEL VIA NAM CHEONG STREET. CORNWALL STREET. WATERLOO ROAD. JUNCTION ROAD. CHUK YUEN ROAD AND EASTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD.
THE STRAIGHT-AHEAD MOVEMENT ON EASTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD NEAR LUNG CHEUNG ROAD/NAM CHEONG STREET UNDERPASS WILL BE BANNED.
MOTORISTS FROM EASTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD HEADING FOR WONG TAI SIN MAY TRAVEL VIA UNDERPASS. NAM CHEONG STREET. CORNWALL STREET. WATERLOO ROAD. JUNCTION ROAD. CHUK YUEN ROAD AND EASTBOUND LUNG CHEUNG ROAD.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
HK PROVIDES SCOPE FOR INCREASING FISH MEAL TRADE............ 1
HK CONTINUES TO RUN CUSTOMS REGIONAL OFFICE................. 2
PUBLIC DUMP AT AP LEI CHAU TO OPEN ......................... J
APPEALS BOARD MEMBERS VISIT DUMPING SITES .................. J
HYBRID SYSTEM EFFLUENT MEETS STANDARD ...................... 4
SLOGAN CONTEST IN EASTERN TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION ....... 5
COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB'S ANNUAL PARADE........................ 6
MUSIC TREATS FOR WONG TAI SIN RESIDENTS .................... 6
ISLANDS TOURISM PROMOTION CAMPAIGN ON AGENDA................ 7
ILLEGAL HAWKING ISSUE ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA ............... 8
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS EDUCATION WORKING GROUP ............ 8
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS CRITERIA EUR FUNDING ............... 9
11 QUESTIONS ON LEGCO AGENDA ............................... 9
38 GOOD CITIZENS HONOURED.................................. 10
SCHOOL BUILDING IN TSEUNG WAN 0 TO BE CLOSED ............... 11
DTC REGISTRATION REVOKED ................................... 11
STANDING COMMITTEE MEMBERS VISIT IMMIGRATION DEPT ......... 12
NEW LOCATION FOR LEASE ENFORCEMENT OFFICE .................. 12
WATER CUTS IN YUEN LONG, KWAI CHUNG ........................ 1J
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1989
UK PROVIDES SCOPE FOR t
INCREASING FISH MEAL TRADE * ♦ ♦ ♦
THERE IS A LOT OF SCOPE FOR INCREASING TRADE IN FISH MEAL AND OILS THROUGH HONG KONG, WHICH HAS EXCELLENT PORT FACILITIES, THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, DR LAWRENCE LEE, SAID THIS (TUESDAY) EVENING.
DI? LEE WAS ADDRESSING MORE THAN 200 DELEGATES FROM 32 COUNTRIES ATTENDING THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 29TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FISH MEAL MANUFACTURERS (IAFMM) AT THE ABERDEEN MARINA CLUB.
’ALTHOUGH HONG KONG WAS NOT BEEN A MAJOR MARKET FOR FISH MEAL AND FISH OIL PRODUCTS, THERE IS NEVERTHELESS A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF ENTREPOT TRADE, WITH THE EXPORT AND RE-EXPORT OF FISH MEAL IN 1988 AMOUNTING TO 24.000 TONNES VALUED AT SOME USS 15 MILLION,” DR LEE POINTED OUT.
NOTING THAT HONG KONG RETAINED SOME 5,000 TONNES OF FISH MEAL AND 12 TONNES OF FISH LIVER OILS FROM IMPORT LAST YEAR, HE SUGGESTED THAT IAFMM MEMBERS SHOULD STEP UP THEIR MARKETING EFFORTS IN HONG KONG.
FISH MEAL IS A SURPLUS TO HUMAN FOOD PROTEIN AND IS MAINLY MEANS OF AQUACULTURE.
PRODUCT OBTAINED BY DRYING REQU IREMENTS. THE PRODUCT FED TO POULTRY, AND PIGS,
FISH, OR WASTE FISH, IS A RICH SOURCE OF AND FISH FARMED BY
THE IAFMM HAS 15 MEMBER COUNTRIES WHICH REPRESENT ALL MAJOR PRODUCERS AND EXPORTERS OF FISH MEAL IN THE WORLD, AND HAS BEEN CO-ORDINATING AN EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION BETWEEN MEMBERS ON TRADE AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT FOR ALMOST 30 YEARS. THE ASSOCIATION WORKS CLOSELY WITH THE UNITED NATIONS FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANISATION BASED IN ROME.
MORE THAN SIX MILLION TONNES OF FISH MEAL ARE PRODUCED ANNUALLY FROM 30 MILLION TONNES OF FISH. WHICH IS ABOUT ONE-THIRD OF THE WORLD CATCH. OF THESE SIX MILLION TONNES PRODUCED, ABOUT HALF IS TRADED. ONE MILLION TONNES OF FISH MEAL IS IMPORTED INTO THE FAR EAST, PRINCIPALLY INTO CHINA AND TAIWAN.
HONG KONG HAS BEEN CHOSEN AS THE VENUE FOR THE IAFMM’S ANNUAL CONFERENCE THIS YEAR BECAUSE OF ITS ACTUAL AND POTENTIAL MARKET FOR FISH MEAL AND FISH OIL.
"IN ADDITION. BY VIRTUE OF ITS STRATEGIC GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION, HONG KONG IS THE CENTRE OF THE FAR FAST. AND A GATEWAY TO CHINA. IT IS CERTAINLY A SPRINGBOARD FOR BIG BUSINESS TN THE REGION: ESPECIALLY FOR CHINA. WHICH IS CURRENTLY Till WORLD’S LARGEST NET IMPORTER OF FISH MEAL.” DR LEE NOTED.
/HE WISHED .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1989
uu_niI E WISHED THE IAFMM EVER5 SUCCESS IN ITS ANNUAL CONFERENCE, UH1CH WILL TAKE THE FORM OF FULL-DAY PLENARY SESSIONS AT THE SHANGRI-LA HOTEL ON THE FISH MEAL AND FISH OIL TRADE ON THURSDAY AND FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 23 AND 24).
TIN' CONFERENCE IS ATTENDED B\ IAFMM MEMBERS AS WELL AS REPRI-,SEN IAI I VES Ol INTERNATIONAL GOVERNMENT AND NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATIONS. THESE COUNTRIES TAKING PART INCLUDE WEST EUROPEAN AND EASTERN BLOC NATIONS. CHILI-. PERU AND PRINCIPAL COUNTRIES IN THE FAR EAST.
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UK CONTINUES TO RUN
CUSTOMS REGIONAL OFFICE
* t ♦ ♦ *
HONG KONG WILL CONTINUE TO RUN THE REGIONAL LIAISON OFFICE OF THE CUSTOMS COOPERATION COUNCIL (CCCI IN THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMISSION FOR ASIA AND THE PACIFIC (ESCAP) REGION.
THIS FOLLOWED THE SECOND ADMINISTRATIVE MEETING OF THE CUSTOMS CONTACT POINTS IN THE CCC ESCAP REGION HELI) IN HONG KONG YESTERDAY (MONDAY) AND TODAY.
THE ESCAP REGIONAL LIAISON OFFICE WAS SET UP IN HONG KONG IN DECEMBER 1987. IT IS THE CENTRAL BODY FOR THE CO-ORDINATION AND EXCHANGE OF DRUG INFORMATION BETWEEN THE 16 CCC MEMBERS OF THE ESCAP REGION.
DURING THE MEETING. WHICH WAS HELD AT THE HONG KONG CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT. 23 PARTICIPANTS FROM 14 CUSTOMS TERRITORIES INCLUDING HONG KONG HELD USEFUL DISCUSSIONS AND EXCHANGED IDEAS AND EXPERIENCES IN AREAS SUCH AS DRUG LAW ENFORCEMENT, MUTUAL CO-OPERATION AND CUSTOMS TRAINING INITIATIVES.
TWO UNITED STATES CUSTOMS REPRESENTATIVES IN HONG KONG ATTENDED THE MEETING AS OBSERVERS. FOR THE FIRST TIME. MACAU WAS INVITED TO ATTEND THE MEETING AS AN OBSERVER.
FROM JANUARY NEXT YEAR. THE AUSTRALIAN CUSTOMS WILL SEND AN OFFICER TO BE ATTACHED TO Till- REGIONAL LIAISON OFFICE FOR 18 MONTHS TO ASSIST THE RUNNING OF THE RLO.
Till: MEETING IS HELD 0N< I A YEAR. THE FIRST MEETING WAS HELD IN BANGKOK IN SEPTEMBER LAST YEAR.
REPRESENTING THE HONG KONG CUSTOMS IN THIS YEAR’S MEETING WERE SENIOR SUPERINTENDENTS II.Y. TONG AND RAYMOND LI AND SUPERINTENDENT W.W. CHIK. OF THE INVESTIGATION BRANCH OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT.
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/5........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1989
3 -
PUBLIC DUMP AT AP LEI CHAU TO OPEN » * » * »
THE PUBLIC DUMP AT AP LEI CHAU NORTH RECLAMATION - PHASE 1, OFF MAIN STREET, AP LEI CHAU, WILL OPEN NEXT TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 28).
THE ENTRANCE ANT) EXIT TO THE PUBLIC DUMP WILL BE AT MAIN STREET. THE DUMP WILL BE OPEN FROM 9 AM TO 5 PM ON WEEKDAYS, AND WILL BE CLOSED ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
HOLDERS OF VALID DUMPING LICENCES FOR PUBLIC DUMPS IN HONG KONG AND KOWLOON WILL BE PERMITTED TO DUMP EARTH AND BUILDING DEBRIS, AND STONE UP TO 250 MILLIMETRES IN SIZE PROVIDING IT IS WELL MIXED WITH EARTH.
THE MATERIALS SHOULD BE FREE FROM MARINE MUD, HOUSEHOLD REFUSE, TIMBER. PLASTICS, INDUSTRIAL AND CHEMICAL WASTES, ANIMAL AND VEGETABLE MATTER, AND OTHER MATERIALS CONSIDERED UNSUITABLE BY THE DUMP SUPERVISORS.
DUMPING LICENCES MAY BE OBTAINED FREE OF CHARGE ON APPLICATION TO THE CHIEF ENGINEER, PORT WORKS DIVISION, CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT THE EIGHTH FLOOR, EMPIRE CENTRE, 68 MODY ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI EAST.
THE DUMP WILL ONLY BE OPEN TO VEHICLES DISPLAYING VALID WINDSHIELD STICKERS ISSUED TOGETHER WITH DUMPING LICENCES.
ALL DUMPING MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS OF THE DUMP SUPERVISORS.
THE CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CANCEL DUMPING LICENCES AT ANY TIME OR TO CLOSE THE DUMP WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE.
THE PUBLIC DUMP AT HUNG HOM BAY, NEAR THE STAR FERRY PIER, HAS BEEN CLOSED SINCE LAST SATURDAY I NOVEMBER 18).
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APPEALS BOARD MEMBERS VISIT DUMPING SITES t t t » «
MEMBERS OF THE DUMPING AT SEA ACT APPEALS VISITED VARIOUS SITES TO SEE LOADING. DREDGING, OPERATIONS.
BOARD TODAY (TUESDAY)
BARGING AND DUMPING
DUMPING (SOLID
THEY WERE BRIEFED OPERATIONS BY
ON THE LU I USING CONTROL SCHEME AND PRINCIPAL I I liONMENTAL PROTECTION
WASTE CONTROL). MR DAVID HALI.
GENERAL
OFFICER
•/THE WASTES ......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 19&9
THE WASTES DUMPED ARE MATERIALS THAT ARE UNSUITABLE FOR LAND RECLAMATION PURPOSES AND CONSIST MAINLY OF DREDGED AND EXCAVATED MARINE MUDS AND MATERIALS ARISING FROM CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES SUCH AS PORT DEVELOPMENT. SEAWALL CONSTRUCTION OR BASEMENT EXCAVATIONS.
MARINE DUMPING MATERIALS ARE DIRECTED TO ONE OF THREE DESIGNATED SPOIL GROUNDS AT EAST OF NINEPIN ISLANDS, SOUTH OF CHEUNG CHAU OR MIRS BAY.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT SAID THAT SO FAR THE DEPARTMENT HAI) ISSUED NEARLY 200 LICENCES, AND 10 APPLICATIONS HAD BEEN REJECTED ON ENVIRONMENTAL GROUNDS.
A LICENSEE CAN APPEAL TO THE APPEALS BOARD IF HIS LICENCE IS REFUSED, VARIED OR REVOKED. UNSUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS CAN ALSO APPEAL.
|
ANYONE WHO CARRIES OUT ILLEGAL MARINE DUMPING IS LIABLE TO PROSECUTION AND THE MAXIMUM FINE IS $5,000.
SINCE 1986. THE EPD HAS INVESTIGATED 50 INCIDENTS, LEGAL
ACTION HAS PROCEEDED IN 13 CASES AND THE PENALTY HAS, ON AVERAGE, BEEN $1.400.
- 0-----------
HYBRID SYSTEM EFFLUENT MEETS STANDARD ♦ * ♦ ♦ *
THE LIVESTOCK WASTE TREATMENT SYSTEM IN A PARTICIPATING IN THE DEMONSTRATION OF THE HYBRID METHOD EFFLUENT WHICH COMPLIES WITH ANTI-POLLUTION STANDARDS.
PRIVATE FARM
IS PRODUCING
AT A MEETING OF THE STEERING GROUP ON ON PRIVATE FARMS THIS (TUESDAY) AFTERNOON. THE THAT THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TREATED EFFLUENT FROM THE PIG FARM IN MA ON
DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS
GROUP MEMBERS LEARNT
HAD SHAN
TAKEN FOR
SAMPLES ANALYSIS
OF AND
CONFIRMED THAT Till* EFFLUENT MET THE REQUIRED SIANDARD.
Till HYBRID SYSTEM WAS HANDED OVER TO THE FARM AUGUST AND THE ANALYSTS OF THF EFFLUENT PROVED THAT EFFECTIVENESS THE SYSTEM IS A FEASIBLE WASTE TREAT MEN! CAN ENABLE LIVESTOCK FARMERS IN CONTROL AREAS IO ANTI POLLUTION REGULATIONS.
OPERATOR IN IN TERMS OF METHOD WHICH COMPLY WITH
A REPRESENTATIVE OF Till' ENVIRONMENTAL TOLD THE MEMBERS THAT THE EFFLUENT STANDARD OF FOR THE DEMONSTRATION OF THE HYBRID ME’I HOD WAS
TH! MEETING ALSO DISCUSSED 'HIE PROGRESS PRIVATE FARMS TAKING PART IN THE DEMONSTRATION METHOD AND THF HYBRID SYSTEM RESPECTIVELY.
PROTECT I ON DEPARTMENT
ANOTHER POULTRY FARM ALSO SATISFACTORY.
AND PROBLEMS OF TWO OF THE PTG-ON-LITTER
/THE STEERING .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1989
I
5 -
THE STEERING GROUP CHAIRMAN. MR I.EO KWAN. SAID ALL PARTIES CONCERNED SHOULD JOIN HANDS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEMS TN A BID TO SPEED UP THE PROGRESS OF THE DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS.
AFTER THE MEETING. THE STEERING GROUP VISITED A POULTRY FARM IN FANL1NG TO GET A [’.ETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE OPERATION OF THE HYBRID SYSTEM THERE.
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SLOGAN CONTEST IN EASTERN TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION
*****
STUDENTS IN EASTERN DISTRICT ARE BEING INVITED TO TAKE PART IN A CIVIC EDUCATION SLOGAN DESIGN AND CHINESE CALLIGRAPHY CONTEST ORGANISED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT YOUTH RECREATION CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE.
THE CONTEST IS AIMED AT HEIGHTENING STUDENTS' CIVIC AWARENESS.
IT IS DIVIDED INTO PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL SECTIONS AND WILL BE CONDUCTED IN TWO PARTS.
PARTICIPANTS SHOULD FIRST SUBMIT SLOGANS IN NOT MORE THAN 20 CHINESE CHARACTERS♦ BRINGING OUT THE THEME OF CIVIC EDUCATION.
THEY CAN THEN ENTER INTO THE SECOND PART OF THE CONTEST - THE CALLIGRAPHY CONTEST IN WHICH THEY HAVE TO WRITE OUT THEIR SLOGANS.
THE THREE WINNERS IN EACH SECTION WILL BE AWARDED BOOK COUPONS WORTH $350. $250 AND $150 RESPECTIVELY. IN ADDITION TO TROPHIES.
ENTRY FORMS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE. COMPLETED FORMS, TOGETHER WITH THE ENTRIES SHOULD BE RETURNED BEFORE NOVEMBER 21 TO THE SECRETARIAT OF THE EASTERN DISTRICT YOUTH RECREATION CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE AT Till DISTRICT OFFICE.
THE CALLIGRAPHY CONTEST WILL BE HELD AT 2.30 PM ON DECEMBER 2 AT THE K1ANGSU AND CHEKIANG PRIMARY SCHOOL.
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/6........
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21. 1989.
- 6
COMMUNITY YOUTH i
CLUB’S ANNUAL PARADE ♦ t t *
THE NINTH ANNUAL PARADE OF THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB I CYC) OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WILL BE HELD AT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM IN 01 KWAN ROAD. WAN CHAI. ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 23).
THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION. MR Y.T. LI. WILL TAKE THE SALUTE AT THE PARADE AND PRESENT AWARDS TO THE CYC MEMBERS AS WELL AS HONORARY MEDALS TO COMMUNITY LEADERS. SCHOOL HEADS AND TEACHERS IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE CYC MOVEMENT.
MORE THAN 3,000 CYC MEMBERS FROM VARIOUS SCHOOLS. SCHOOL HEADS AND TEACHERS INVOLVED IN CYC ACTIVITIES WILL ATTEND THE PARADE. WHICH WILL ALSO FEATURE CHINESE DANCE. DRAMA. BAND MARCH, CHOIR SINGING AND AN ORCHESTRA PERFORMANCE BY CYC MEMBERS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EVENT AT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM AT 0.1 KWAN ROAD. WAN CHAI. ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 23).
THE EVENT WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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MUSIC TREATS FOR WONG TAI SIN RESIDENTS t * * ♦ t
RESIDENTS IN WONG TAI SIN WILL BE PROVIDED WITH MORE MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT ON FRIDAY I NOVEMBER 21) EVENING.
AN ALL STAR SHOW AND A ’MUSIC FOR THE MILLIONS" CONCERT WILL BE HELD AS PART OF THE CURRENT DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
THE SHOW AND THE CONCERT ARE, JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS COUNCIL AND THE URBAN COUNCIL.
THE ALL STAR SHOW. WHICH IS FREI . WILL BF HELD AT THE OPEN-AIR THEATRE IN MORSE PARK. BEGINNING AT 8 PM.
IT WILL FEATURE POPULAR SONGS BY TELEVISION ARTISTS AND SINGERS - WONG WAN-CHOI. SHEUNG TIN-NGOR, THE CHENG SISTERS, CHAN YING-FUNG AND LAU YUK-KING.
THE "MUSIC FOR THE MILLIONS" CONCER’I WILL BE HELD AT THE NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE. ALSO BEGINNING AT ft PM.
THE MUSIC OFFICE INSTRUCTORS ORCHESTRA WILL PLAY WESTERN ORCHESTRAL MUSIC.
/TICKETS FOR
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER ?1, 1989
TICKETS FOR THE CONCERT AT $10 AND $15 ARE ON SALE AT THE CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE AND ALL URBTIX OUTLETS.
NGAU
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE WELCOME TO COVER THE ALL STAR SHOW AND THE ’’MUSIC FOR THE MILLIONS” CONCERT OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 24) BEGINNING AT 8 PM AT THE OPEN-AIR THEATRE IN MORSE PARK AND THE NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE RESPECTIVELY.
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ISLANDS TOURISM PROMOTION CAMPAIGN ON AGENDA
* ♦ t ♦ ♦
THE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE PROGRESS OF THE DISTRICT’S TOURISM PROMOTION CAMPAIGN AT A MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
A PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION, ORGANISED AS PART OF THE CAMPAIGN, PROVED SUCCESSFUL WITH ABOUT 400 ENTRIES RECEIVED. TWO EXHIBITIONS OF THE WINNING ENTRIES ARE SCHEDULED TO BE HELD IN JANUARY.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE PROPOSED ROVING EXHIBITION OF PHOTOGRAPHS OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDS UNEARTHED IN THE DISTRICT AND PRESERVATION OF THE ROCK INSCRIPTION AT TAI SHEK HAU. CHEUNG CHAU, AS A MEANS TO ADD TO THE ATTRACTION OF THE ISLANDS.
THEY WILL EXPRESS THEIR CONCERN ABOUT THE SANITARY CONDITION OF THE PUBLIC LATRINES AT TOURISTS SPOTS AND THE NUISANCE CAUSED BY SOME NOISY HOLIDAY’ MAKERS TRAVELLING ON THE FERRIES SERVING THE OUTLYING ISLANDS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD’S TOURISM DEVEOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING TO BEGIN AT 2 PM TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) IN THE ISLANDS DISTRK T OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, 20TH FLOOR, HARBOUR. BUILDING. 38 PIER ROAD. CENTRAL.
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/8........
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21. 1989
8
ILLEGAL HAWKING ISSUE ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA
THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENT AND WORKS COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS AT ITS MEETING ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 23) ILLEGAL HAWKING AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
A MEMBER WILL SUGGEST THAT THE GOVERNMENT COMMISSION A FEASIBILITY STUDY’ ON BUILDING A PROMENADE ALONG THE DISTRICT’S WATERFRONT.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRIC1 BOARD’S ENVIRONMENT AND WORKS COMMITTEE MEETING WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM ON THURSDAY IN ROOM 1416. HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD. CENTRAL.
- - 0 - -
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS EDUCATION WORKING GROUP ♦ ♦ ♦ t ♦
THE SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) A PROPOSAL THAT A WORKING GROUP ON EDUCATION POLICY BE SET UP.
THE SUGGESTION WAS MADE AT A DISTRICT BOARD MEETING LAST MONTH DURING WHICH MEMBERS EXPRESSED CONCERN OVER THE PROVISION OF EDUCATION SERVICES IN THE DISTRICT.
TWO COMMITTEE MEMBERS WILL ALSO RECOMMEND THAT DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS BE USED TO SET UP A WORKING GROUP TO CARRY OUT RESEARCH ON COMMUNITY SERVICES IN THE AREA.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARD’S SOCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM, 13TH FLOOR. YUEN LONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES. 2 KIU LOK SQUARE, YUEN LONG.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN XT 2.30 PM.
- 0 -
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21. 1989
9
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS * ♦ ♦
CRITERIA FOR FUNDING ♦ ♦
THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S RECREATION AFFAIRS COMMITTEE WILL HOLD ITS FIRST MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) AND DISCUSS THE CRITERIA BOARD FUNDS TO LOCAL ORGANISATIONS UNDER THE ACTIVITIES" VOTE.
. SPORTS AND CULTURAL
FOR THE 1989-91 TERM FOR ALLOCATING DISTRICT 'APPLICATION FOR OTHER
COMMITTEE MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS WORK TARGETS. MEETING SCHEDULE AND FINANCIAL POSITION.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE GOVERNMENT REPORTS ON PLANNED COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT.
DEPARTMENTAL
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S RECREATION. SPORTS AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) IN THE DISTRICT BOARD CONFERENCE ROOM ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF TAI PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE. 152 KWONG FUK ROAD. TA I PO.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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11 QUESTIONS ON LEGCO AGENDA t ♦ t » t
MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL ASK A TOTAL OF 11 QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER THREE BILLS AT THE COUNCIL’S MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
SECOND READING DEBATES ON THE THREE BILLS WILL BE RESUMED, AND EACH BILL IS THEN DUE TO GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE GIVEN A THIRD READING.
THEY ARE THE BANK NOTES ISSUE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989, THE ARBITRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1989 AND THE IMMIGRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO. 4) BILL 1989.
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/1O........
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21. 1989 .
10
38 GOOD CITIZENS HONOURED
t * * ♦ »
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC SHOULD EXERCISE THEIR CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY AND OFFER THEIR CO-OPERATION TO ASSIST THE POLICE IN THE MAINTENANCE OF LAW AND ORDER.
THIS WAS STATED BY A MEMBER OF THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE. MRS MIRIAM LAU KIN-YEE, AT A GOOD CITIZEN AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY HELD TODAY (TUESDAY) TO HONOUR 38 PEOPLE WHO HAD IN THE PAST MONTHS RENDERED INVALUABLE ASSISTANCE TO THE POLICE IN THE COMBAT AGAINST CRIME.
"THE GOOD CITIZEN AWARD SCHEME WAS INTRODUCED IN 1973 AND HAS SINCE BECOME A REGULAR MACHINERY THROUGH WHICH MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO HAVE MADE OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE FIGHT AGAINST CRIME ARE GIVEN DUE RECOGNITION." SHE SAID.
NOTING THAT THE AWARDS HAD BEEN GIVEN OUT CONTINUOUSLY OVER THE YEARS. MRS LAU SAID THAT IT WAS A VERY ENCOURAGING SIGN.
"IT TELLS US THAT THERE ARE A GREAT NUMBER OF GOOD CITIZENS IN OUR MIDST. IT ONLY TAKES THE RIGHT INCIDENT TO BRING THEM TO PUBLIC-NOTICE.
"ANOTHER THING IT SHOWS IS THAT THE COMMUNITY IS BEHIND US IN OUR FIGHT AGAINST CRIME." MRS LAU SAID.
SHE POINTED OUT THAT A GOOD CITIZEN WAS IN FACT AN ORDINARY CITIZEN. BUT THEA HAD BECOME UNIQUE BECAUSE AT THE RIGHT MOMENT THEY HAD MADE A RIGHT DECISION WHICH LED TO EITHER THE APPREHENSION OF A CRIMINAL OR THE PREVENTION OF A CRIME.
THE 38 AWARDEES TODAY HAD IN DIFFERENT CIRCUMSTANCES HELPED THE POLICE THROUGH EXERCISING THEIR PHYSICAL PROWESS. COURAGE, INTELLIGENCE, CALMNESS AND BASICALLY. A SENSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS.
"WE MAY NOT ALL BE QUICK OR STRONG. BUT WE DO SHARE A YEARNING FOR LAW AND ORDER TN OUR SOCIETY. AND THE GOOD CITIZENS ARE THOSE WHO PUT THEIR THOUGHTS INTO ACTIONS." MRS LAU SAID.
THE AWARDEES. WHO WERE EACH PRESENTED WITH A CERTIFICATE AND A CASH AWARD, WERE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE AND OF ALL AGES. WITH THE YOUNGEST BEING 17 YEARS OLD AND THE OLDEST 63.
INCLUDING THE LATEST GROUP OF 38 GOOD CITIZENS. A TOTAL OF 2.036 PEOPLE HAVE BEEN AWARDED WITH THE COVETED AWARD SINCE ITS INCEPTION.
"COMMUNITY SUPPORT IS AN ESSENTIAL ELEMENT FOR THE SUCCESS IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CRIME.
"1 AM SURE THAT THE FINE DEEDS OF OUR GOOD CITIZENS WILL SERVE AS SHINING EXAMPLES FOR MANY MORE TO COME." MRS LAU ADDED.
ALSO OFFICIATING AT TODAY'S CEREMONY WERF DIRECTOR OF THE HONG KONG GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. BRIGADIER IAN CHRISTIE. AND THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF POLICE (CRIME). MR PETER. WONG.
0
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21. 1989
11
SCHOOL BUILDING TN TSEUNG KWAN O TO BE CLOSED *****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY TODAY (TUESDAY) DECLARED THE MAIN BUILDING OF SUNNYSIDE SCHOOL. ANDERSON ROAD. TSEUNG KWAN O. TO BE LIABLE TO BECOME DANGEROUS.
IN A STATEMENT ISSUED THIS MORNING. THE PRINCIPAL GOVERNMENT BUILDING SURVEYOR SAID THE TWO-STOREY POST-WAR BUILDING WITH REINFORCED CONCRETE COLUMN/BEAM FRAME IS IN AN ADVANCED STAGE OF DILAPIDATION AND DETERIORATION.
EXTENSIVE AREAS OF SPALLED CONCRETE ARE FOUND TO THE UNDERSIDE OF THE SLABS AND BEAMS. EXPOSED REINFORCEMENT BARS ARE ALSO BADLY CORRODED.
THE CONCRETE IS OF POOR QUALITY AND THERE IS ON-SITE EVIDENCE THAT SEA DREDGED AGGREGATE/SAND HAS BEEN USED IN THE ORIGINAL CONSTRUCTION. FURTHERMORE. GROUND SUBSIDENCE AND SLOPE MOVEMENT HAVE ALSO BEEN IDENTIFIED.
FALLEN CONCRETE DEBRIS WAS REPORTED LAST MONTH AND FURTHER FALLING OF SPALLED CONCRETE OCCURRED RECENTLY. THE BUILDING IS CONSIDERED TO BE BEYOND REASONABLE REPAIR.
A NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER IN THE SHA TIN DISTRICT COURT ON JANUARY 3 NEXT YEAR WAS POSTED ON THE BUILDING TODAY.
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DTC REGISTRATION REVOKED * * ♦
THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT THE REGISTRATION OF SBV ASIA LTD AS A DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANY HAS BEEN REVOKED AS AT THE CLOSE OF BUSINESS TODAY AT ITS OWN REQUEST UNDER SECTION 31(2) OF THE BANKING ORDINANCE.
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TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 21, 1989
STANDING COMMITTEE MEMBERS VISIT IMMIGRATION DEPT * t * I *
MEMBERS OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE ON DISCIPLINED SERVICES SALARIES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE VISITED THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT THIS (TUESDAY) AFTERNOON.
FIVE MEMBERS TOOK PART IN THE VISIT. THEY WERE MR ANTHONY CHEUNG, MR CHOW CHUN-FAI, MRS MIRIAM LAU, MR BRIAN RENWICK AND MR TANG KWAI-NANG.
THEY WERE RECEIVED BY THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION, MR H.C. YEUNG. ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (CONTROL AND INVESTIGATION), MR K.C. CHEUK. AND OTHER SENIOR STAFF OF THE DEPARTMENT.
THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS VISITED THE INVESTIGATION DIVISION AND VIEWED DISPLAYS IN THE FORGERY DISPLAY ROOM OF THE PROSECUTION AND DEPORTATION SUB-D1VISTON. THEY WERE BRIEFED BY MR C.B. CHAN, PRINCIPAL IMMIGRATION OFFICER (INVESTIGATION), ON THE WORK OF THE INVESTIGAT ION DI VISI ON.
THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS THEN SAW A TYPICAL INVESTIGATION OPERATION CONDUCTED BY IMMIGRATION STAFF WHEN OFFICERS CARRIED OUT A RAID OF PREMISES TN THE URBAN AREA.
THE VISIT LASTED FOR ABOUT THREE HOURS AND CONCLUDED AT 5 PM.
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NEW LOCATION FOR LEASE ENFORCEMENT OFFICE « t t t »
THE LEASE ENFORCEMENT AND LAND CONTROL SECTION OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE WILL MOVE TO NEW ACCOMMODATION ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 23).
THE OFFICE WILL MOVE TO THE SECOND FLOOR. TAI HING GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING. 16 TSUN WEN ROAD, TUEN MUN.
THE NEW TELEPHONE NUMBER WILL BE 0-1557201.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21. 1989
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WATER CUTS IN YUEN LONG, KWAI CHUNG » * t » t t
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN AREA IN YUEN I.ONG WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 9 AM TO 9 PM ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 23) TO FACILITATE WATER WORKS AT CASTLE PEAK ROAD NEAR WING KEI TSUEN. YUEN LONG.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT PREMISES AT LONG HA, TAI YUEN FISHERY GARDEN. MAN YUEN TSUEN, FAIRVIEW PARK, NGAU TAM MEI, FUK HING LEI. SAN WAI TSUEN, SHEUNG CHUK YUEN, CHUK YUEN TSUEN, YAU TAM MEI TSUEN, TAM Ml CAMP. YAU TAM MEI SAN TSUEN, WAI TSAI AND YAU MEI SAN
TSUEN.
ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 24). FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN KWAI CHUNG WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 9 AM TO 4 PM TO FACILITATE A WATER MAIN CONNECTION AT KO FONG STREET NEAR HING FONG STREET.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT THE PREMISES AT 1-111 AND 2-30 WING FONG ROAD, 1-43 AND 2-44 SHING FONG STREET. 1-41 KO FONG STREET, 1-41 AND 2-42 SHUN FONG STREET, 2-40 VAN FONG STREET. 1-9 AND 2-14 MEI FONG STREET. 1-3 AND 2-4 CHE FONG STREET, 1-23 LAI FONG STREET, 178-224 HING FONG ROAD AND THE KWAI CHUNG SPORTS GROUND.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG’KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
............... I
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989 .......... - • • •
CONTENTS. PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING:
COMPANIES WINDING UP AMENDMENT RULES APPROVED ........... 1
DECISION WILL MAKE HK ATTRACTIVE AS ARBITRATION CENTRE .... 2
NECESSARY STEP FOR HK AS ARBITRATION CENTRE.............. 3
OVER 1,000 IMPORTED WORKERS EXPECTED BY YEAR'S END....
NUMEROUS AGREEMENTS WITH GUANGDONG AUTHORITIES........... 5
NO NOTICEABLE RISE IN TAXI-RELATED CRIME................ 5
NO IMMEDIATE PLANS TO EXTEND TEACHING OF PUTONGHUA.... 7
DRAFT LEGISLATION ON REGULATING SECURITY INDUSTRY ....... 8
WIDER USE OF FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS PROMOTED ............ 8
PEAK CONGESTION FARE AIMED AT PASSENGER SAFETY.......... 10
IMPROVED CONTROL OVER PERCUSSIVE PILING ................ 10
STEPS TAKEN TO STRENGTHEN SUPERVISION OF FOREX RISKS ... 11
ACTION ON SMOKY VEHICLES NOT IMPROVING OVERALL SITUATION . 1J
STEPS TO EXPEDITE ROAD EXCAVATION WORKS ................ 14
THREE BILLS PASSED...................................... 15
/SENIOR CIVIL ......
SENIOR CIVIL SERVICE APPOINTMENTS ............................ 16
BARRIE WJGGHAM APPOINTED EXCO MEMBER ......................... 18
SURVEY ON UTILISATION OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE ........ 18
PAC TO HOLD OPEN HEARING TOMORROW .......................... 20
PAK KONG TREATMENT WORKS OPENS TOMORROW ...................... 21
POSTAL APPLICATION FOR LEARNER'S DRIVING LICENCES AND TESTS 22
EXHIBITION TO PROMOTE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH .................. 23
OVERSTAYERS ARE LIABLE TO FINES, IMPRISONMENT................. 2A
WARNING ON ILLEGAL ROAD RACING ............................. 25
RESCUERS RECEIVE CERTIFICATES FOR BRAVE DEEDS..................25
DB TO DISCUSS GOVERNOR'S POLICY SPEECH ....................... 26
BRIEFING ON KCRC CROSS HARBOUR LINK PROPOSAL ................. 27
PROPOSED PETROL FILLING STATION ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA ....... 27
AFTERSCHOOL CARE PROGRAMME ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA............. 28
SPORTS DAY FOR ELDERLY IN WONG TAI SIN ..................... 29
GOVT LOT IN KWUN TONG TO LET BY TENDER....................... 29
MEASURES TO ALLEVIATE CONGESTION ON MTR ...................... 30
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN TUEN MUN, KWAI CHUNG.................. 31
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SHAM SHUI PO AND KOWLOON CITY....... 31
r
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 22, 1989
1
COMPANIES WINDING UP AMENDMENT RULES APPROVED * * * * *
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) APPROVED THE COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) (AMENDMENT) RULES 1989, WHICH WERE MADE BY THE CHIEF JUSTICE ON OCTOBER 28.
MOVING A MOTION UNDER THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS, SAID THE RULES INTRODUCED TWO AMENDMENTS TO EXISTING PROCEDURES.
FIRST, RULE 28(1) WAS AMENDED TO ENABLE A PETITIONER TO APPLY FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF A PROVISIONAL LIQUIDATOR AFTER PRESENTATION OF THE WINDING-UP PETITION TO THE COURT.
SIR PIERS SAID THE PRESENT RULE PROVIDED FOR AN APPLICATION BY A CREDITOR. CONTRIBUTORY, OR BY THE COMPANY ITSELF.
"THE PURPOSE OF THE AMENDMENT IS TO GIVE THE RELEVANT REGULATORY AUTHORITIES AN EXPRESS RIGHT TO PETITION FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF A PROVISIONAL LIQUIDATOR IN APPROPRIATE CIRCUMSTANCES," HE EXPLAINED.
AT PRESENT. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE INSURANCE AUTHORITY, THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION AND THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING ALL HAD POWERS TO PRESENT WINDING-UP PETITIONS UNDER THEIR RESPECTIVE ORDINANCES.
ANY SUCH PETITIONS WERE FREQUENTLY FOLLOWED BY APPLICATIONS FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF A PROVISIONAL LIQUIDATOR IN ORDER TO SAFEGUARD THE ASSETS OF THE COMPANY AND TO PRESERVE THE BOOKS AND FINANCIAL RECORDS, AND IT WAS APPROPRIATE THAT THE RELEVANT AUTHORITY IN HIS CAPACITY AS PETITIONER SHOULD BE ABLE TO MAKE THE APPLICATION, HE ADDED.
THE SECOND AMENDMENT SPECIFIED THAT RULE 93(1) v ■ AMENDED TO MAKE IT CONSISTENT WITH SECTION 217 OF THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE, WHICH PROVIDED THAT CREDITORS WHO DID NOT PROVE THEIR DEBT Ol CLAIM ON OR BEFORE THE DATE FIXED BY RULE 93(1) WERE EXCLUDED FROM THE BENEFIT OF THE DISTRIBUTION MADE NEXT AFTER THAT DATE AND FROM THE BENEFIT OF ANY PREVIOUS DISTRIBUTION.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY POINTED OUT THAT UNDER THE EXISTING RULE. CREDITORS WHO FAILED TO PROVE WITHIN THE TIME-LIMIT WERE EXCLUDED FROM THE NEXT DISTRIBUTION, BUT NOT FROM PREVIOUS DISTRIBUTIONS.
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WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 22. 1989
2
DECISION WILL MAKE HK ATTRACTIVE AS ARBITRATION CENTRE
THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL. THE HON FRANK STOCK. SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) IT IS GRATIFYING THAT MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL HAVE GIVEN THE ARBITRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1989 ”A SWIFT SEAL OF APPROVAL0.
SPEAKING IN THE COUNCIL’S RESUMED DEBATE ON THE BILL. MR STOCK SAID THE ADOPTION OF THE MODEL LAW WOULD MAKE HONG KONG EMINENTLY ATTRACTIVE AS AN ARBITRATION VENUE.
REFERRING TO THE HON MARIA TAM'S COMMENTS ABOUT THE FUNDING OF THE HONG KONG ARBITRATION CENTRE. MR STOCK SAID THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION HAD INDEED RECOMMENDED THAT PROVISION BE MADE FOR THE PERMANENT FUNDING OF THE ARBITRATION CENTRE. ALTHOUGH THE COMMISSION ACKNOWLEDGED THAT THIS WAS NOT STRICTLY WITHIN ITS TERMS OF REFERENCE.
HE SAID THAT THE PROVISION OF 11.2 MILLION IN 1984, TO WHICH MISS TAM HAD REFERRED. WAS INTENDED TO BE A ONE-OFF GRANT.
"HOWEVER. IN JUNE THIS YEAR A SUBMISSION WAS PUT TO MEMBERS OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE BY WHICH FURTHER FUNDING WAS SOUGHT.
"THE PAPER THEN BEFORE MEMBERS POINTED OUT THAT INCOME OF THE CENTRE HAD BEEN LESS THAN ENVISAGED. BUT PREDICTED THAT THE CENTRE SHOULD SUCCEED IN ESTABLISHING ITSELF FIRMLY IF THE FUNDING THEN PROPOSED WAS FORTHCOMING.
"A NUMBER OF FACTORS WERE PUT FORWARD TO JUSTIFY NEW OPTIMISM. AND ONE OF THESE RELATED TO THE GOOD PROSPECTS THAT WOULD FLOW FROM ADOPTION OF THE MODEL LAW." HE SAID.
MR STOCK SAID THE FURTHER FUNDING WAS REQUESTED FROM THE FINANCE COMMITTEE TO ENABLE THE CENTRE TO OPERATE WITH FINANCIAL CONFIDENCE.
"THE PROPOSAL WAS PUT FORWARD ON THE BASIS THAI TO CONTINUE TO MAXIMISE THE NECESSARY INDEPENDENCE FROM THE GOVERNMENT. A LUMP SUM GRANT RATHER THAN A RECURRENT GRANT SHOULD BE PROVIDED UNDER A CAPITAL ACCOUNT SUBVENTIONS SUB-HEAD.
"MEMBERS OF FINANCE COMMITTEE APPROVED THE PROVISION OF A FURTHER GRANT OF 119.1 MILLION BUT ASKED THAT SOME FORM OF ADMINISTRATION CONTROL OVER THE CAPITAL SUM BE ENSURED. AND THE ADMINISTRATION AGREED TO CONSIDER HOW THIS WOULD BE EFFECTED.
"I GATHER THAT THIS HAS GIVEN RISE TO SOME CONCERN ON THE PART OF THOSE CONNECTED WITH THE CENTRE BECAUSE OF THEIR DESIRE TO MAINTAIN MAXIMUM INDEPENDENCE. AND THAT THIS IS TO BE THE SUBJECT OF FURTHER DISCUSSION." HE SAID.
MR STOCK ADDED THAT THE INTEREST ON THE SUM. AS MISS TAM HAD POINTED OUT. WAS ESTIMATED TO BE SUFFICIENT TO PERMIT THE CENTRE TO OPERATE UNTIL THE TURN OF THE CENTURY. BY WHICH TIME THE CENTRE COULD REASONABLY BE EXPECTED TO GENERATE SUFFICIENT REVENUE OF ITS OWN TO COVER 75 PER CENT OF ITS EXPENDITURE.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
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NECESSARY STEP FOR HK AS ARBITRATION CENTRE »»»»*»
THE PASSAGE OF THE ARBITRATION (AMENDMENT) (ND. 2) BILL 1989 WILL BE A MAJOR AND NECESSARY I ' IO PUT HONG KONG IN THE LEAGUE OF INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION. THE )' >N MARIA TAM SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING JN THE RESUMED DEBATE ON THE BILL, MISS TAM SAID THE MEASURE WAS A RESULT OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION THAT THERE SHOULD BE TWO REGIMES FOR ARBITRATION IN HONG KONG FOR DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONA!. MATTERS.
WHILE DOMESTIC ARBITRATION SHOULD CONTINUE TO FOLLOW EXISTING LAW IN HONG KONG, INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION SHOULD IN GENERAL BE GOVERNED BY THE MODEL LAW PUBLISHED BY THE UNITED NATIONS COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE LAW (UNCITRAL) IN 1985 AND PASSED BY THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY, SHE SAID.
"BY ADOPTING THIS MODEL LAW. HONG KONG WILL HAVE JOINED CANADA, AUSTRALIA AND. IN A MODIFIED FORM, CALIFORNIA, AND BRITISH COLUMBIA IN UPDATING ITS INTERNATIONAL PRACTICE IN ARBITRATION," SHE SAID.
MISS TAM POINTED OUT THAT THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION CENTRE WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1985 BUT HAD SO FAR CONDUCTED ONLY 28 CASES.
SHE ALSO NOTED THAT HONG KONG WAS FACING REGIONAL COMPETITION FROM KUALA LUMPUR AND MELBOURNE.
"WE NEED FRESH IMPETUS TO REALISE THE POTENTIALS OF THE ROLE WE WISH TO PLAY IN HONG KONG. HAT WE ARE HONEST AND EFFECTIVE BROKERS IN INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND BUSINESS AND, IN PARTICULAR, IN TRADING WITH CHINA." SHE SAID.
AFTER STUDYING THE BILL. MISS TAM SAID MEMBERS OF THE AD HOC GROUP DECIDED TO SUPPORT TH! CONTRACTING OUT METHOD IN INDICATING WHETHER THE UNCITRAL MODE), LAW SHOULD APPLY TO THE AGREEMENT UNDER DISPUTE IN AN INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION.
"WE BELIEVE THAT FOR AN INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION THE MODEL LAW SHOULD BE THE PRIMARY LAW WHICH J‘ ALREADY BEING ADOPTED IN MAJOR COUNTRIES: THAT UNDER THE MODEL LAW JUDICIAL REVIEW IS EXCLUDED IN ALL INTERNATIONAL CHAMBERS OF CON'iERCT AS BUSINESSMEN WANT THE LEAST POSSIBLE INTERFERENCE BY THE COURTS \ND PREFER SPEED AND FINALITY IN SETTING DISPUTES." SHE SAID.
AS FOR THE FUNDING OF THE HONG KONG CENTRE. MISS TAM POINTED OUT THAT IT OPERATED ON A GRANT 01- <1.2 II' LION FROM THE GOVERNMENT AND SI.3 MILLION FROM PRIVATE SI "OR DONATIONS IN THE PAST YEARS.
/SHE SAID ......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
4
SHE SAID THE FINANCE COMMITTEE ALSO APPROVED A GRANT OF S19.1 MILLION TO ASSIST THE OPERATION OF THE CENTRE IN JUNE THIS YEAR WITH A VIEW THAT THE INTEREST GENERATED FROM THE FUND COULD BE SUFFICIENT FOR THE CENTRE’S OPERATION UP TO THE TURN OF THE CENTURY. BY WHICH TIME THE CENTRE COULD REASONABLY BE EXPECTED TO GENERATE REVENUE TO (’OVER ABOUT 75 PER CENT OF ITS EXPENDITURE.
BUT THERE WERE DIFFERENT VIEWS AMONG SOME MEMBERS OF THE AD HOC GROUP. SHE SAID, NOTING THAT ONE MEMBER FELT THE FEES AND CHARGES COLLECTED WOULD NOT BE SUFFICIENT FOR THE SUCCESSFUL OPERATION OF THE CENTRE WHILE ANOTHER MEMBER BELIEVED THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD FULLY FUND THE OPERATION OF THE CENTRE.
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OVER 1,000 IMPORTED WORKERS EXPECTED BY YEAR’S END «»«»*»
THE GOVERNMENT ESTIMATES THAT MORE THAN A THOUSAND WORKERS WILL HAVE ARRIVED BY THE END OF THE YEAR UNDER THE SPECIAL SCHEME FOR IMPORTING SKILLED LABOUR, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, THE HON K.Y. YEUNG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON JAMES TIEN, MR YEUNG SAID THE SPECIAL SCHEME FOR IMPORTING SKILLED LABOUR WAS A TEMPORARY MEASURE DESIGNED TO RELIEVE SHORTAGES AT TECHNICIAN, CRAFTSMAN AND SUPERVISORY LEVELS.
"TO THE EXTENT THAT IT HAS OPENED UP AN ADDITIONAL SOURCE OF SUPPLY OF SUCH SKILLS, THE SCHEME HAS ACHIEVED ITS OBJECTIVE," HE SAID.
MR YEUNG POINTED OUT THAT THE SCHEME ALLOWED FOR THE ADMISSION OF UP TO 3,000 WORKERS.
"OF 8,470 WORKERS APPLIED FOR, THE ADMISSION OF 2,479 HAS BEEN APPROVED IN PRINCIPLE AND AS OF LAST WEEK 1,438 APPLICATIONS FOR VISAS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED.
"ABOUT 730 APPLICATIONS HAVE BEEN APPROVED AND THE REMAINDER ARE BEING PROCESSED," HE SAID.
MR YEUNG ALSO SAID THAT THE STEERING GROUP THAT OVERSAW THE SCHEME WAS NOW REVIEWING IT AND WAS EXPECTED TO COME UP WITH RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE END OF THE YEAR.
"DEPENDING ON THE ADVICE OF EXECUTIVE COUNCIL A DECISION ON THE FUTURE OF THE SCHEME IS LIKELY TO BE TAKEN EARLY NEXT YEAR," HE ADDED.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
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NUMEROUS AGREEMENTS WITH * * *
GUANGDONG AUTHORITIES t *
THERE ARE CURRENTLY IN FORCE NUMEROUS AGREEMENTS BETWEEN VARIOUS AUTHORITIES OF THE GUANGDONG GOVERNMENT AND DEPARTMENTS OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON CHAN YING-LUN, SIR DAVID SAID THESE COVERED A WIDE RANGE OF PRACTICAL ISSUES. HE CITED THE FOLLOWING AS EXAMPLES:
* AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE DIRECTOR OF CIVIL AVIATION AND THE GUANGZHOU ADMINISTRATION OF CAAC ON VARIOUS ASPECTS OF AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL;
t AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE POSTMASTER GENERAL AND THE GUANGDONG PROVINCIAL RADIO MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE ON
TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR FREQUENCY CO-ORDINATION ON
BORDERING TERRITORIES;
» AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES AND THE GUANGDONG PROVINCIAL AUTHORITIES ON THE SUPPLY OF WATER TO HONG KONG AND KOWLOON; AND
* AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY AND THE GUANGDONG METEOROLOGICAL BUREAU TO ESTABLISH AN AUTOMATIC WEATHER STATION.
"THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AS SUCH HAS NO AGREEMENTS IN EXISTENCE WITH THE CENTRAL PEOPLE'S GOVERNMENT, ALTHOUGH THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY DOES HAVE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE CHINESE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT FORECASTING CENTRE TO CO-OPERATE IN MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL FORECASTING AND RELATED SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL RESEARCH," STR DAVID SAID.
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NO NOTICEABLE RISE IN TAXI-RELATED CRIME
♦ * t » »
THE VIEW OF THE POLICE REGIONAL CRIMES FORMATIONS BASED ON THEIR WORKING KNOWLEDGE, IS THAT THERE HAS BEEN NO NOTICEABLE INCREASE IN TAX I-RELATED CRIME IN OVERALL TERMS.
HOWEVER, A SPECIAL REVIEW IS BEING CARRIED OUT TO CHECK THIS POINT. THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON GEOFFREY BARNES, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
/REPLYING TO .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1?89
- 6 -
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON PEGGY LAM, MR BARNES SAID NO SEPARATE STATISTICS WERE KEPT OF SERIOUS CRIMINAL CASES IN WHICH THE CULPRITS WERE REPORTED TO BE TAXI DRIVERS OR PERSONS POSING AS TAXI DRIVERS, AND IT WAS THEREFORE NOT POSSIBLE TO SAY WHETHER SUCH CRIMES WERE INCREASING OR NOT.
HE SAID THE SPECIAL REVIEW SO FAR HAD SHOWN THAT THIS YEAR 27 CASES OF ROBBERY, FOUR CASES OF RAPE AND THREE CASES OF INDECENT ASSAULT WERE IN THIS CATEGORY. THE FIGURES FOR 1988 WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE.
’’HOWEVER, SINCE THERE ARE SOME 16,000 TAXIS OPERATING ON OUR STREETS, CARRYING UP TO 1.2 MILLION PASSENGERS EVERY DAY, THESE FIGURES WOULD INDICATE A RATIO OF ONE VICTIM AMONGST EVERY 11 MILLION PASSENGERS.
"THIS DOES NOT SUGGEST A SERIOUS SITUATION, ALTHOUGH IDEALLY EVEN ONE CRIME IS ONE TOO MANY," HE SAID.
MR BARNES SAID CLOSE LIAISON WAS MAINTAINED BY THE POLICE WITH THE TAXI OWNERS ASSOCIATION. AND THEIR ADVICE WAS SOUGHT ON HOW BEST TO COMBAT TAXI-RELATED CRIMES.
"IN THIS CONNECTION THE ASSOCIATION HAS MADE USEFUL SUGGESTIONS AND GIVEN HELPFUL ADVICE TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC," HE SAID.
MR BARNES SAID POLICE ACTION GENERALLY WAS DETERMINED IN THE LIGHT OF PREVAILING CRIME TRENDS AND OTHER POLICE PRIORITIES.
SPECIFIC ACTION AGAINST TAXI CRIMES INVOLVED FOLLOWING-UP REPORTS ON THE ONE HAND AND PREVENTIVE ACTION ON THE OTHER.
IN THE LATTER CONTEXT. ROUTINE ROAD BLOCKS AND VEHICLE CHECKS SERVED BOTH AS A DETERRENT AND ALSO AS A MEANS OF DETECTING OFFENDERS.
"SEPARATELY, NEW LEGISLATION IS BEING PREPARED BY THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT WHICH WILL PROVIDE. AMONGST OTHER THINGS. FOR THE DISPLAY OF TAXI DRIVER IDENTITY PLATES INSIDE TAXIS WHICH WILL MAKE IT EASIER FOR. PASSENGERS TO IDENTIFY TAXI DRIVERS.
"WHEREAS THE MAIN AIMS OF THIS LEGISLATION ARE TO ENCOURAGE SELF-DISCIPLINE IN TAXI DRIVERS AND TO DISCOURAGE MALPRACTICES SUCH AS OVERCHARGING. THE DISPLAY OF IDENTITY PLATES SHOULD ALSO HELP CURB TAXI CRIME," HE ADDED.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
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NO IMMEDIATE PLANS TO EXTEND TEACHING OF PUTONGHUA
* » » » *
THERE ARE NO PLANS AT PRESENT FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO EXTEND THE TEACHING OF PUTONGHUA TO ALL LEVELS IN BOTH PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS, THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER, THE HON K.Y. YEUNG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON LEUNG WAI-TUNG, MR YEUNG EXPLAINED THAT CHILDREN IN PRIMARY 1 - 3 HAD TO DEVELOP LITERACY IN CHINESE AND AT THE SAME TIME TO LEARN ENGLISH.
"IT WOULD PUT A CONSIDERABLE STRAIN ON MOST OF THEM IF THEY WERE REQUIRED TO LEARN A THIRD LANGUAGE AT THAT STAGE OF THEIR DEVELOPMENT," HE SAID.
MR YEUNG ALSO SAID THERE WERE NO PLANS TO EXTEND THE FORMAL TEACHING OF PUTONGHUA UP TO SECONDARY 5.
"THE SIX YEARS OF PUTONGHUA UP TO SECONDARY 3 ALREADY GIVE STUDENTS A SUFFICIENT GROUNDING TO ENABLE THEM TO DEVELOP THEIR SKILLS IN THEIR OWN TIME.
"MOREOVER, AT SECONDARY 4 AND 5 THE CURRICULUM IS ALREADY VERY HEAVY AS STUDENTS PREPARE FOR THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION," HE SAID.
MR YEUNG NOTED THAT THE PRESENT PUTONGHUA COURSE HAD BEEN AVAILABLE, ON AN OPTIONAL BASIS. TO PRIMARY SCHOOLS SINCE SEPTEMBER 1986 AND TO SECONDARY SCHOOLS SINCE SEPTEMBER LAST YEAR, WITH SYLLABUSES COVERING PRIMARY 4-6 AND SECONDARY 1-3.
"THIS YEAR THE SUBJECT IS BEING OFFERED IN 77 PER CENT OF ALL SCHOOLS.
"SOME 223,000 CHILDREN, OR ABOUT 43 PER CENT OF ALL PUPILS BETWEEN PRIMARY 4 AND SECONDARY 3, ARE TAKING ADVANTAGE OF THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN PUTONGHUA," HE EXPLAINED.
MR YEUNG ALSO SAID THAT THE QUESTION FROM MISS LEUNG IMPLIED THAT STRENGTHENING THE TEACHING OF PUTONGHUA AND EXTENDING IT TO ALL LEVELS OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLING WOULD IMPROVE STUDENTS’ CHINESE LANGUAGE SKILLS.
"THIS SEEMS TO ME TO BE A QUESTIONABLE ASSUMPTION.
"FOR THE VAST MAJORITY OF OUR STUDENTS, THE LANGUAGE OF THE HOME AND THE COMMUNITY IS CANTONESE.
"IT IS POSSIBLE TO BECOME HIGHLY LITERATE IN CHINESE EVEN IF ONE IS A CANTONESE SPEAKER, AS MANY MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL CAN ATTEST.
"GIVEN THE PRESSURE OUR STUDENTS ARE ALREADY UNDER TO BECOME COMPETENT IN TWO LANGUAGES, ENGLISH AS WELL AS CHINESE, IT IS BY NO MEANS CLEAR THAT ADDING PUTONGHUA TO THE BASIC CURRICULUM, OR TEACHING CHINESE LANGUAGE THROUGH THE MEDIUM OF PUTONGHUA, WOULD LEAD TO ANY IMPROVEMENT TN THE GENERAL STANDARD OF WRITTEN CHINESE," HE SAID.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22. 1989
- 8 -
DRAFT LEGISLATION ON REGULATING SECURITY INDUSTRY « t » * *
DRAFT LEGISLATION ON REGULATING THE SECURITY INDUSTRY AND IMPROVING STANDARDS IS NOW BEING CONSIDERED, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON GEOFFREY BARNES, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR BARNES WAS REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON CHUNG PUI-LAM, WHO HAD ASKED WHAT PROGRESS HAD BEEN MADE IN AMENDING THE WATCHMEN ORDINANCE, IN VIEW OF PUBLIC CONCERN ON IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF WATCHMEN AND ENHANCING THE EFFICIENCY OF THEIR SERVICE.
THE SECRETARY POINTED OUT THAT AS HE HAD SAID IN THE COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 8, THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE WAS CONSIDERING THE POSSIBILITY OF NEW LEGISLATION TO ACHIEVE THE TWO OBJECTIVES.
THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF THE REGULATION OF THE SECURITY INDUSTRY, ESTABLISHED UNDER THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, HAD WORKED OUT A BASIC FRAMEWORK BASED ON A LICENSING SYSTEM TO BE RUN ON TWO LEVELS, HE SAID.
THIS WAS THE LICENSING OF SECURITY OFFICERS, INCLUDING WATCHMEN, AND PERSONS INSTALLING AND MAINTAINING SECURITY DEVICES; AND THE LICENSING OF THE SECURITY COMPANIES THEMSELVES.
"THE FIRST DRAFT OF THE SECURITY INDUSTRY BILL IS NOW BEING CONSIDERED BY THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
"OUR AIM IS FOR THE NEW BILL TO BE PUT BEFORE THIS COUNCIL DURING THIS LEGISLATIVE SESSION. THE WATCHMEN ORDINANCE WILL THEN BE REPEALED." HE SAID.
-------0----------
WIDER USE OF FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS PROMOTED
t * » * *
THE GOVERNMENT’S AIM IS TO CONTINUE TO PROMOTE THE WIDER USE OF FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS IN THE COMMUNITY - IN ORDER TO REDUCE PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC CONGESTION - THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON STR DAVID FORD, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON DAVID CHEUNG, SIR DAVID SAID ALTHOUGH THE RESPONSE AMONG GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS HAD BEEN ENCOURAGING. FEEDBACK ON PRIVATE SECTOR PRACTICE IN FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS HAD BEEN MIXED.
HE SAID PRIVATE SECTOR EMPLOYERS HAD INDICATED THERE WERE LIMITATIONS SUCH AS PROBLEMS RELATED TO STAFF SUPERVISION, SIZE OF THE ESTABLISHMENT, EMPLOYEES' RESISTANCE TO CHANGE AND THE NEED TO SYNCHRONISE THEIR. OPERATING HOURS WITH THEIR BUSINESS COUNTERPARTS WHICH DETERRED A WIDER APPLICATION OF FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS.
/"NO DOUBT .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
9 -
"NO DOUBT COMMERCIAL CONSIDERATIONS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR INFLUENCE SUBSTANTIALLY MANAGEMENT DECISIONS ON WHETHER TO ALLOW THEIR STAFF TO WORK MORE FLEXIBLE HOURS OR NOT," HE SAID.
SIR DAVID SAID A PUBLICITY PROGRAMME PROMOTING THE WIDER USE OF FLEXIBLE WORE ING HOURS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR WAS LAUNCHED JOINTLY BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT IN FEBRUARY THIS YEAR.
THE PUBI ■ ,'ITY PROGRAMME HAD BEEN LED BY AN ANNOUNCEMENT OF PUBLIC INTEREST WHICH WAS RUNNING ON ALL FOUR TELEVISION STATIONS.
"THIS IS SUPPLEMENTED BY THE DISTRIBUTION OF LEAFLETS AND POSTERS ON FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS TO OVER 7,000 PRIVATE SECTOR ORGANISATIONS EACH OF WHICH EMPLOY MORE THAN 50 STAFF.
"WE ALSO INCLUDED A FEATURE ARTICLE ON THE ADVANTAGES OF FLEXITIME IN TWO RECENT ISSUES OF THE LABOUR RELATIONS NEWSLETTER WHICH HAS A CIRCULATION OF OVER 20.000 EMPLOYERS AND TRADE ASSOCIATIONS.
"IN TOTAL, EXCLUDING STAFF COST AND AIR-TIME ABOUT #120,000 HAS BEEN SPENT ON THE PUBLICITY PROGRAMME," THE CHIEF SECRETARY SAID.
SIR DAVID SAID THAT SINCE THE SUBJECT OF FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS WAS RAISED IN THE COUNCIL IN JUNE LAST YEAR, HEADS OF DEPARTMENT HAD REVIEWED THE USE OF FLEXITIME OR STAGGERED WORKING HOURS IN THE CIVIL SERVICE.
THE OBJECTIVE WAS TO SEE WHETHER THE PRACTICE COULD BE FURTHER EXTENDED AND WHETHER GREATER FLEXIBILITY COULD BE INTRODUCED IN DECIDING THE "CORE" OPERATION HOURS. WHICH WERE HOURS WHEN ALL STAFF EXCEPT THOSE WHO WORKED SHIFTS SHOULD BE AT WORK.
THE RESPONSE HAD BEEN ENCOURAGING, HE SAID.
FORTY-THREE DEPARTMENTS INVOLVING ABOUT 30,000 STAFF HAD INDICATED THAT THEY WERE OPERATING SOME FORM OF FLEXITIME OR STAGGERED WORKING HOURS FOR ALL OR PART OF THEIR STAFF AND OF THESE, FOUR DEPARTMENTS OPERATED FLEXTTIME/LIMITED FLEXITIME, 16 OPERATED STAGGERED WORKING HOURS AND 23 OPERATED BOTH SCHEMES.
"THESE FIGURES COMPARED FAVOURABLY WITH THE FIGURE OF 31 DEPARTMENTS (INVOLVING ABOUT 20,000 STAFF) GIVEN IN THIS COUNCIL LAST YEAR," HE SAID.
SIR DAVID STRESSED THAT THE ADMINISTRATION WOULD CONTINUE TO ENCOURAGE GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS TO ADOPT A WIDER USE OF FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS SUBJECT TO THE QUALITY OF SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC NOT BEING ADVERSELY AFFECTED AND TO THE STAFF FULFILLING THEIR PRESCRIBED WORKING HOURS.
-------0----------
/1O........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
10
PEAK CONGESTION FARE AIMED AT PASSENGER SAFETY
******
THE GOVERNMENT IS SATISFIED THAT THE DECISION TAKEN BY THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION TO RETAIN THE PEAK-HOUR CONGESTION FARE WAS MADE WITH FULL REGARD TO THE PUBLIC INTEREST, PARTICULARLY PASSENGER SAFETY, THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, THE HON ALBERT LAM, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON RONALD CHOW, MR LAM SAID THAT APART FROM SAFETY, THE BOARD OF THE MTR CORPORATION ALSO TOOK INTO CONSIDERATION THE LEVEL OF MORNING PEAK HOUR DEMAND ALONG THE NATHAN ROAD CORRIDOR AND THE RELIABILITY OF TIME-TABLE SERVICES, BEFORE IT TOOK THE DECISION TO RETAIN THE PEAK CONGESTION FARE.
"THIS DECISION WAS BASED ON THE FINDINGS OF A RECENT SURVEY WHICH INDICATED THAT ALTHOUGH THE NEWLY COMPLETED EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING HAS PROVIDED SOME RELIEF, THE MORNING PEAK HOUR. DEMAND ALONG THE NATHAN ROAD CORRIDOR STILL EXCEEDS THE SAFETY MARGIN OF 75,000 PASSENGERS PER HOUR WHICH IS CONSIDERED TOLERABLE WITHOUT COMPROMISING PASSENGER COMFORT AND SAFETY," HE SAID.
MR LAM SAID THAT TO CARRY MORE THAN 75,000 PASSENGERS PER HOUR IN ONE DIRECTION WOULD INCREASE THE RISK OF OVERCROWDING ON THE PLATFORMS, AND CAUSE SERIOUS DIFFICULTIES IN EVACUATING PASSENGERS IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY.
"MOREOVER, THE RELIABILITY OF TRAIN SCHEDULES COMFORT WOULD ALSO BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED," HE ADDED.
AND PASSENGER
-------0----------
IMPROVED CONTROL OVER PERCUSSIVE PILING
******
THE GOVERNMENT HAS CONSIDERABLY IMPROVED ITS CONTROL OVER PERCUSSIVE PILING OPERATIONS SINCE NOVEMBER 17, THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, THE HON GRAHAM BARNES, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON RITA FAN, WHO REFERRED TO A PRIMARY SCHOOL IN WAN CHAI THAT HAD BEEN ADVERSELY AFFECTED BY NOISE, MR BARNES SAID THAT WITH EFFECT FROM NOVEMBER 17 PERCUSSIVE PILING COULD NOT BE CARRIED OUT WITHOUT A PERMIT UNDER THE NEW SECTION 6(3) OF THE NOISE CONTROL ORDINANCE.
/HE SAID .......
WEDNESDAY, LOVEMBER 22, 1989
HE SAID: "IN PRACTICE THIS MEANS THAT WHEREAS BEFORE NOVEMBER 17 CONTRACTORS COULD CARRY OUT PERCUSSIVE PILING FOR 12 CONTINUOUS HOURS FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM EXCEPT ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS, FROM THAT DAY THE NOISE AND AIR POLLUTION (INCLUDING DUST) FROM SUCH CONSTRUCTION WORF CAN BE RESTRICTED TO FIVE OR THREE HOURS IF IT IS CAUSING DISTURBANCE TO NEARBY RESIDENTS; WE ARE NORMALLY RESTRICTING SUCH PILING TO THREE HOURS IF A NEARBY SCHOOL IS AFFECTED AND CERTAINLY WOULD HAVE DONE SO IN THE WAN CHAI CASE."
MR BARNES SAID THAT BEFORE WORKS COMMENCED, THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT, AS THE RESPONSIBLE DEPARTMENT, WOULD LIAISE WITH THE SCHOOL MANAGEMENT AND BUILDING CONTRACTOR SO AS TO SCHEDULE PERCUSSIVE PILING AS FAR AS POSSIBLE DURING LONG RECESS TIMES, LUNCH BREAKS AND AFTER SCHOOL HOURS -- THE AIM BEING TO MINIMISE DISTURBANCE DURING TEACHING.
"DURING THE OPERATION, IF THE DEPARTMENT DISCOVERS AN AIR POLLUTION NUISANCE CAUSED BY THE PILING OPERATION. IT CAN TELL THE CONTRACTOR TO ABATE THE NUISANCE, AND FOLLOW UP BY SUMMONSING HIM IF HE FAILS TO COMPLY," HE SAID.
IN THE CASE OF THE WAN CHAI SCHOOL, THE CONTRACTOR PUT UP A SCREEN BETWEEN THE SITE AND THE SCHOOL VOLUNTARILY AFTER DISCUSSION WITH THE EPD.
"I CANNOT YET COMMENT ON THE GENERAL EFFECTIVENESS OF THE NEW MEASURES. AS THEY HAVE ONLY BEEN IN OPERATION FOR LESS THAN A WEEK.
"BUT THEY WILL AT LEAST BE A MORE EFFECTIVE PROTECTION FOR SCHOOLS THAN THE OLD MEASURES, AS NOISY OPERATIONS CAN BE SCHEDULED AT BETTER TIMES." HE SAID.
MR BARNES ALSO POINTED OUT THAT SINCE NOISY OPERATIONS WERE NOW SUBJECT TO MORE STRINGENT TIME RESTRICTIONS THAN QUIET ONES. IT WAS IN A CONTRACTOR’S INTEREST TO CHOOSE THE QUIETEST METHODS POSSIBLE. INCLUDING NON-PERCUSSION PILING.
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STEPS TAKEN TO STRENGTHEN SUPERVISION OF FOREX RISKS t t t ♦ * *
THE OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING HAS RECENTLY TAKEN STEPS TO STRENGTHEN ITS SUPERVISION OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE RISKS IN THE OPERATIONS OF AUTHORISED FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON CHAN YING-LUN, SIR PIERS ALSO SAID THE GOVERNMENT INTENDED TO CREATE GREATER PUBLIC AWARENESS OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE RISKS THROUGH INVESTOR EDUCATION.
/UNDER THE
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
12
UNDER THE PROPOSED NEW ARRANGEMENTS, SIR PIERS SAID THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING’S OVERSIGHT OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE BUSINESS OF INDIVIDUAL AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS WOULD INVOLVE:
- ASSESSING THE ADEQUACY OF MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS FOR MONITORING AND LIMITING FOREIGN EXCHANGE EXPOSURES:
- SETTING A GUIDELINE LIMIT FOR OVERNIGHT FOREIGN CURRENCY EXPOSURES:
- ANALYSING REGULAR RETURNS ON FOREIGN EXCHANGE ACTIVITIES AND POSITIONS; AND
- REGULAR CONSULTATIONS WITH MANAGEMENT OF AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS TO REVIEW OPERATIONS.
SIR PIERS SAID THE COMMISSIONER’S OFFICE WAS CONSULTING WITH BANKING AND DEPOSIT-TAKING INDUSTRY BODIES ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NEW ARRANGEMENTS.
TURNING TO INVESTOR EDUCATION. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY EXPLAINED THAT THE POSITION OF INVESTORS. WHO MIGHT NOT BE FULLY AWARE OF THE RISKS ARISING FROM VOLATILITY IN THE FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKETS. WAS OF SOME CONCERN.
"IT IS THE GOVERNMENT'S INTENTION TO CREATE A GREATER PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THESE RISKS THROUGH INVESTOR EDUCATION.
"THIS IS LIKELY FO BE MORE EFFECTIVE. AND CHEAPER, THAN
INTRODUCING LEGISLATIVE CONTROLS. HE SAID.
SIR PIERS ALSO SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS, HOWEVER. LOOKING AT THE OPERATION OF FRINGE OPERATORS WHO OFFERED LEVERAGED CONTRACTS IN FOREIGN EXCHANGE.
HE EXPLAINED THAT SUCH OPERATORS. WHOSE NUMBERS HAD INCREASED RAPIDLY OVER RECENT YEARS. CURRENTLY FELL OUTSIDE THE FIELD OF SUPERVISION OF EITHER THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING'S OFFICE OR THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION.
'WE ARE EXAMINING THEIR LEGAL POSITION AND POSSIBLE PROBLEMS ARISING FROM THEIR OPERATIONS BEFORE ('OMI NG TO A VIEW AS TO WHETHER. AND IF SO HOW BEST. THEIR. ACTIVITIES SHOULD BE SUBJECT TO CONTROLS." SIR PIERS SAID.
HE ADDED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONDUCT APPROPRIATE CONSULTATIONS TN THE COURSE OF FORMULATING ANY NEW REGULATIONS WHICH MIGHT BE NECESSARY.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY EMPHASISED THAT DIE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING TOOK A CLOSE INTEREST IN THI STANDARDS OF PRUDENCE OBSERVED BY AUTHORISED INSTI TUT IONS.
/HE SAID .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
HE SAID THE SYSTEM OF PRUDENTIAL SUPERVISION OF THE ^COMMISSIONER’S OFFICE WAS DIRECTED TOWARDS ENSURING THAT INDIVIDUAL AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS COMPLIED WITH PRUDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS AND FOLLOWED MANAGEMENT PRACTICES WHICH LIMITED RISKS TO PRUDENT LEVELS.
'THESE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ARE KEPT UNDER REVIEW TO TAKE ^ACCOUNT OF CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES. VARIOUS ASPECTS OF AN INSTITUTION’S OPERATIONS ARE CONTINUOUSLY MONITORED, INCLUDING FOREIGN ‘EXCHANGE OPERATIONS.” SIR PIERS SAID.
------0--------
ACTION ON SMOKY VEHICLES NOT IMPROVING OVERALL SITUATION t t t * t
THE ACTION OF SPOTTING SMOKY VEHICLES AND REQUIRING THEM TO UNDERGO EXAMINATION HAS SOME DETERRENT EFFECT AGAINST SMOKY EMISSIONS. BUT THE OVERALL SITUATION IS NOT IMPROVING SIGNIFICANTLY.
THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING. ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, THE HON GRAHAM BARNES. SAID THIS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON TAM YIU-CHUNG.
MR BARNES SAID THIS WAS BECAUSE, FIRST. NOT ENOUGH VEHICLES WERE BEING SPOTTED AND EXAMINED: SO THE CHANCES OF A VEHICLE OPERATOR BEING CAUGHT AND REQUIRED TO FIX THE PROBLEM WERE NOT SUFFICIENTLY •HIGH.
’’SECOND. THERE IS NOT ENOUGH INCENTIVE FOR OWNERS TO KEEP THEIR VEHICLES PROPERLY MAINTAINED TO AVOID EXCESSIVE EMISSIONS IN THE FIRST PLACE." HE SAID.
MR BARNES SAID THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) HAD THEREFORE RECENTLY INCREASED THE NUMBER OF TRAINED SPOTTERS FROM 150 TO 230.
AND WE ARE CONSIDERING WAVS TO EXPAND THE TESTING CAPACITY AND. ABOVE ALL. TO INTRODUCE FINES TN THE CONTEXT OF A NEW VEHICLE EMISSION CONTROL STRATEGY.’ HE SAID.
AT PRESENT. OVER 2.000 SMOKY VEHICLES WERE SPOTTED PER MONTH AND MORE THAN 100 VEHICLES WERE TESTED BY THE EPD PER DAY AT THE DEPARTMENT’S TESTING CENTRE. HE SAID.
VEHICLES WHICH FAILED THE SMOKE EMISSION TEST HAD TO UNDERGO FURTHER EXAMINATION UNTIL THEIR EMISSIONS WERE ACCEPTABLE.
/AS TO .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
14
AS TO WHETHER THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONSIDER EXTENDING THE SCHEME TO COVER BRAKING NOISES PRODUCED BY BUSES AND OTHER HEAVY VEHICLES. MR BARNES SAID BRAKING NOISES WERE CURRENTLY TACKLED THROUGH THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT’S NORMAL INSPECTION PROGRAMMES.
'EXTENDING THE VEHICLES EMISSION CONTROL SCHEME TO COVER NOISY VEHICLES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED FOR THE TIME BEING." HE SAID.
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STEPS TO EXPEDITE ROAD EXCAVATION WORKS ft * * * *
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT, WHICH IS RESPONSIBLE FOR CONTROLLING ROAD OPENINGS, ATTACHES GREAT IMPORTANCE TO THE TIME IT TAKES TO COMPLETE THEM AND THE INCONVENIENCE TO ALL WHICH THEY CAUSE.
THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, THE HON GRAHAM BARNES, STATED THIS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
FOR ROAD MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENTS, THE DEPARTMENT EMPLOYED CONTRACTORS BOTH FOR INDIVIDUAL AND TERM CONTRACTS, HE SAID IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON MARTIN BARROW.
"SHOULD THE CONTRACTOR FAIL TO COMPLETE THE WORKS BY THE SPECIFIED COMPLETION DATE WITHOUT VALID REASONS, HE IS OBLIGED UNDER THE CONTRACT TO PA'i TO THE GOVERNMENT A SPECIFIED SUM AS LIQUIDATED DAMAGES FOR EACH DAY OF DELAY." HE SAID.
THOSE UNDERTAKING UTILITY WORKS HAD TO OBTAIN EXCAVATION PERMITS FROM THE DEPARTMENT BEFORE THEY WERE ALLOWED TO BEGIN EXCAVATION.
"WHEN AN APPLICATION IS RECEIVED, THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT CHECKS, FROM CURRENT WORKS PROGRAMMES. THE EXISTENCE OF ANY ROAD OPENING RESTRICTIONS AND THE LIKELY EFFECT ON TRAFFIC.
"IF THE OPENING WILL AFFECT TRAFFIC, THE TRAFFIC POLICE AND APPROPRIATE DEPARTMENTS ARE CONSULTED, EITHER DIRECTLY OR THROUGH THE ROAD OPENING CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEES, WHICH MEET MONTHLY," HE SAID.
ON AVERAGE, 100 APPLICATIONS FOR EXCAVATION PERMITS WERE RECEIVED AND PROCESSED BY THE DEPARTMENT EACH DAY.
MR BARNES SAID UNDER THE CROWN LAND ORDINANCE IT WAS AN OFFENCE TO MAKE OR MAINTAIN ANY EXCAVATION IN THE HIGHWAY RESERVE WITHOUT A VALID EXCAVATION PERMIT, AND SO THE PERMITTEE HAD TO COMPLETE THE WORKS BY THE EXPIRY DATE.
/"IF, HOWEVER, .........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
"IF, HOWEVER, A ROAD EXCAVATION IS LEFT UNATTENDED FOR NO ACCEPTABLE REASON, THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT WILL, UNDER EXCAVATION PERMIT CONDITIONS, TAKE OVER THE SITE AND COMPLETE THE WORK, INCLUDING FINAL REINSTATEMENT, AT THE PERMITTEE’S EXPENSE.
"IN PRACTICE, AN ENQUIRY IS FIRST MADE WITH THE PERMITTEE AND THIS USUALLY HAS THE DESIRED EFFECT OF SPEEDING UP THE PROGRESS OF THE WORK," MR BARNES SAID.
- 0 - -
THREE BILLS PASSED t ♦ » *
THREE BILLS WERE PASSED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THEY WERE THE BANK NOTES ISSUE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989, THE ARBITRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) BILL 1989 AND THE IMMIGRATION (AMENDMENT) (NO. 4) BILL 1989.
A MOTION THAT THE COUNCIL APPROVE THE COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) (AMENDMENT) RULES 1989, MADE BY THE CHIEF JUSTICE ON OCTOBER 28, WAS PASSED.
- 0 - -
/16
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22. 1989
16
SENIOR CIVIL SERVICE APPOINTMENTS
*****
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (WEDNESDAY) ANNOUNCED THE FOLLOWING SENIOR CIVIL SERVICE APPOINTMENTS:-
MR BARRIE WIGGHAM, SECRETARY, GENERAL DUTIES WILL SUCCEED MR HARNAM GREWAL AS SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE ON APRIL 1, 1990.
MR GREWAL WILL BE RETIRING FROM THE CIVIL SERVICE;
ON APRIL 1, 1990 THE GENERAL DUTIES BRANCH WILL MERGE WITH CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS BRANCH. MR MICHAEL SUEN WILL CONTINUE AS SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO ANNOUNCED FOLLOWING POSTINGS WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE IN EARLY JANUARY, 1990:-
MR BRIAN CHAU TAK-HAY, SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE WILL BECOME DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE;
MR MICHAEL SZE CHO-CHEUNG, DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE WILL BECOME DIRECTOR OF MARINE;
MRS ELIZABETH WONG CHIEN CHI-LIEN, DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE WILL BECOME SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE;
MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, DEPUTY SECRETARY. TRADE AND INDUSTRY WILL BECOME DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE;
MR JOSEPH WONG WING-PING, DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR CIVIL SERVICE WILL BECOME DEPUTY SECRETARY, TRADE AND INDUSTRY;
MR DERICK HALL, ACTING DIRECTOR OF MARINE WILL SUCCEED MR PETER CHAN AS MARINE ADVISER. MR CHAN WILL BE PROCEEDING ON LEAVE PENDING RETIREMENT IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1990.
THE FOLLOWING ARE BRIEF BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES ON THE OFFICIALS INVOLVED:
MR BARRIE WIGGHAM
AGED 52. MR WIGGHAM JOINED THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE IN 1961. HE HAS SERVED IN A NUMBER OF DEPARTMENTS AND BRANCHES INCLUDING URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT. NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, ECONOMIC BRANCH. FINANCE BRANCH, HOME AFFAIRS AND INFORMATION BRANCH AND GENERAL DUTIES BRANCH. MORE RECENTLY HE HAS SERVED AS DEPUTY SECRETARY. HOME AFFAIRS AND INFORMATION BRANCH (1976 - 79). COMMISSIONER. RECREATION AND CULTURE (1979 - 83), REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON). CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION (1983 - 86) AND BECAME SECRETARY, GENERAL DUTIES BRANCH IN 1986. BEFORE HIS APPOINTMENT AS SECRETARY FOR GENERAL DUTIES. HE WAS SECONDED AS COUNSELLOR IN THE BRITISH AMBASSY PEKING IN 1986. HE WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF SECRETARY GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT IN DECEMBER 1986 .
/MR BRIAN .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER ?2, 1989
- 17 -
MR BRIAN CHAU TAK-HAY
AGED 46, MR CHAU JOINED THE CIVIL SERVICE IN 1967. HE INITIALLY SERVED IN THE TRADE, INDUSTRY AND CUSTOMS DEPARTMENTS AND JOINED THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE IN JULY 1982. MORE RECENTLY HE HAS SERVED AS COUNSELLOR (GENEVA), TRADE AND INDUSTRY BRANCH (1982 -84). DEPUTY SECRETARY, HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH (1984 - 85), DEPUTY REGIONAL SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON). CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION <1985 - 86), REGIONAL SECRETARY I HONG KONG AND KOWLOON) (1986 - 88) AND WAS APPOINTED SECRETARY, HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH IN 1988. HE WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE A IN MARCH 1988.
MR MICHAEL SZE CHO-CHEUNG
AGED 44. MR SZE JOINED THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE IN JULY 1969. HE HAS SERVED IN A VARIETY OF DEPARTMENTS AND BRANCHES INCLUDING URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, HOME AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT, CIVIL SERVICE BARNCH AND TRADE DEPARTMENT. MORE RECENTLY HE HAS SERVED AS DEPUTY SECRETARY CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH (1981 84). DEPUTY DIRECTOR. TRADE DEPARTMENT (1984 - 87) AND AS
DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE SINCE MARCH 1987. HE WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE Bl IN APRIL 1987.
MRS ELIZABETH WONG CHIEN CHI-LIEN
AGED 52. MRS WONG JOINED THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE IN MAY 1969. SHE SERVED IN A NUMBER OF DEPARTMENTS AND BRANCHES INCLUDING THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, FINANCE BRANCH, MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH AND LANDS AND WORKS BRANCH. MORE RECENTLY SHE HAS SERVED AS DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS (1983 - 84), DEPUTY SECRETARY, LANDS AND WORKS (1984 -85), DEPUTY SECRETARY, MUNICIPAL SERVICES (1985 - 86). SHE BECAME DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE IN MARCH 1987. SHE WAS PROMOTED TO HER PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE Bl IN OCTOBER 1987.
MR MICHAEL CARTLAND
AGED 44, MR CARTLAND JOINED THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES IN 1972. HE SERVED IN THE SOCIAL SERVICES BRANCH, AS PRIVATE SECRETARY GOVERNMENT HOUSE, IN THE NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION. IN SECURITY BRANCH AND IN THE TRADE AND INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT AND BRANCH. MORE RECENTLY HE HAS SERVED AS DEPUTY DIRECTOR TRADE DEPARTMENT (1982 - 84), COUNSELLOR
(GENEVA) (1984 - 88) AND AS DEPUTY SECRETARY, TRADE AND INDUSTRY BRANCH SINCE APRIL 1988. MR CARTLAND WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER STAFF GRADE Bl IN DECEMBER 1988.
/MR JOSEPH .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
MR JOSEPH WONG WING-PING
AGED 41, MR WONG JOINED THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE IN AUGUST 1973. HE SERVED IN A VARIETY OF DEPARTMENTS AND BRANCHES INCLUDING ECONOMIC BRANCH, FINANCE BRANCH, NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, TRADE DEPARTMENT AND CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH. MORE RECENTLY HE HAS SERVED AS ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF TRADE (1984 - 87), DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF TRADE (1987) AND AS DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE SINCE JANUARY 1988.
MR DERICK HALL
AGED 51, MR HALL JOINED THE CIVIL SERVICE AS A SURVEYOR OF SHIPS IN NOVEMBER 1965. HE WAS PROMOTED TO SENIOR SURVEYOR OF SHIPS IN 1972, AND PRINCIPAL SURVEYOR OF SHIPS IN 1981. HE BECAME SURVEYOR GENERAL OF SHIPS IN 1982 AND WAS PROMOTED TO HIS PRESENT RANK OF DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF MARINE IN NOVEMBER 1984.
- - 0 -
BARRIE WIGGHAM APPOINTED EXCO MEMBER t t ♦ t ♦
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN ANNOUNCED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT MR BARRIE WIGGHAM, SECRETARY FOR GENERAL DUTIES, HAS BEEN APPOINTED A MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL WITH EFFECT FROM DECEMBER 1, 1989.
SURVEY ON UTILISATION OF TRADITIONAI CHINESE MEDICINE
A TERRITORY-WIDE TELEPHONE SURVEY WILL START LATER THIS WEEK TO FIND OUT THE PATTERN OF UTILISATION OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE IN HONG KONG.
ANNOUNCING THIS TODAY (WEDNESDAY). A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN < SAID Till SURVEY WAS PART OF THI RESEARCH PROGRAMME ON CHINESE MEDICINE BEING CARRIED OUT BY A Ml’LT I I) I SU I PL I NARY TEAM FROM THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG.
"Till' RESEARCH STUDY IS COMMISSIONED AND FUNDED BY THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH ON THE ADVICE 01 THI RECENTLY ESTABLISHED WORKING PARTY ON CHINESE MED I (’I NE." HE SAID.
/"A RANDOM
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
"A RANDOM SAMPLE OF APPROXIMATELY 4,000 INDIVIDUALS AGED 18 AND ABOVE WILL BE INTERVIEWED BY TELEPHONE OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS.
"RESPONDENTS WILL BE ASKED ABOUT THEIR USE OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE AND WESTERN MEDICINE, THE PRACTICE OF SELF-MEDICATION. THE NATURE OF THE ILLNESS AND MEDICATION INVOLVED AND THE OCCURRENCE OF SIDE-EFFECTS.
"SIMILAR DATA FOR CHILDREN WILL BE OBTAINED THROUGH MOTHERS WITHIN THE SAMPLE.”
THE SPOKESMAN SAID RESPONDENTS' VIEWS ON THE CONTROL OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE AND ON THE TRAINING OF PRACTITIONERS WOULD ALSO BE SOUGHT.
"INFORMATION ON THE SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF THOSE INTERVIEWED WILL BE OBTAINED. HOWEVER, THIS INFORMATION IS SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE STUDY AND WILL RE KEPT STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL," HE SAID.
"THE INTERVIEW WILL BE CONDUCTED BY TRAINED RESEARCH ASSISTANTS AND IS EXPECTED TO TAKE NO MORE THAN 20 MINUTES."
THE QUESTIONNAIRE USED IN THE SURVEY WAS REVIEWED BY THE WORKING PARTY ON CHINESE MEDICINE AT ITS MEETING LAST WEEK. MEMBERS NOTED THAT IN A PILOT SURVEY CONDUCTED EARLIER ON, RESPONDENTS WERE GENERALLY CO-OPERATIVE AND THEY EXPRESSED A KEEN INTEREST ON THE SUBJECT.
OTHER PARTS OF THE RESEARCH PROGRAMME INCLUDE A SERIES OF PERSONAL INTERVIEWS 01 PRACTITIONERS OF CHINESE MEDICINE AND A STUDY ON THE TRAINING. REGISTRATION AND CONTROL OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE PRACTITIONERS IN (’HINA. TAIWAN AND SINGAPORE.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID: "THE STUDY WILL PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE INFORMATION TO ASSIST THE WORKING PARTY’S DELIBERATIONS. OUR AIM IS TO PROMOTE THE GOOD PRACTICE OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE IN HONG KONG.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT OUR WORK HAS THE SUPPORT OF THE COMMUNITY. WE THEREFORE REQUEST MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO HAVE BEEN SELECTED FOR THE INTERVIEWS TO CO-OPERATE FULLY WITH THE RESEARCH TEAM. ’’
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WHO WISH TO OBTAIN FURTHER DETAILS OF THE SURVEY MAY CONTACT PROFESSOR STUAR1 DONNAN OR DR WONG TZE-WAI, MEMBERS OF THE RESEARCH TEAM FROM THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG. ON TEL. 0-6973211 EXT. 217.
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/2O........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
20 -
PAC TO HOLD OPEN HEARING TOMORROW t t t ♦ t
THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE WILL HOLD AN OPEN HEARING TOMORROW (THURSDAY) ON THE REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF AUDIT WHICH WAS TABLED IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL LAST WEDNESDAY.
THE REPORT IS ON THE ACCOUNTS OF THE GOVERNMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31 AND THE RESULTS OF VALUE FOR MONEY AUDITS.
THE HEARING WILL TAKE PLACE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAMBER. THE MORNING SESSION WILL RUN FROM 9.30 AM TO 12.45 PM, AND THE AFTERNOON SESSION FROM 2.30 PM TO 4.30 PM.
APPEARING BEFORE THE COMMITTEE TO ANSWER POINTS RAISED IN THE DIRECTOR OF AUDIT’S REPORT WILL BE THE SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY, THE DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING SERVH'ES, THE DIRECTOR OF HOSPITAL SERVICES, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, THE DATA PROCESSING MANAGER. THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS. THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, THE DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL SERVH’ES. THE DIRECTOR Of URBAN SERVICES, THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE CONSUMER COUNCIL AND TUT ACTING DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS.
THE TIMETABLE FOR THE HEARING IS AS FOLLOWS:
9.30 AM SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY AND ACCOUNTING SERVH'ES, PARAGRAPHS 7.1-9.1. DIRECTOR OF
9.50 AM DIRECTOR OF HOSPITAL SERVICES, PARAGRAPHS 13.1-12.8.
10.20 AM DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE. PARAGRAPHS 11.1-11.6.
11.05 AM
SECRETARY FOR THE TREASURY, SEC IM TARY FOR THE CIVII SFRVH'I. AND THE DATA I ‘ROC I 1 NG MANAGER, PARAGRAPHS 6.I-6.9.
11.50 AM
PM
3.20 PM
SECRETARY FOE’ THE TREASURY AND THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS \ND LANDS, PARAGRAPHS 16.1-16.25.
SECRETARY I OR REC REATION AND CULTURE, DIRECTOR OF REGIONAI SERVICES AND DIRECTOR OF URBAN MERV ICES.
PARAGR\PHS 10.110. 15.
SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY. SECRETARY FOR Till- TREASURY AND Till CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE U( >NSUMI R ( 'OIW IE, PARAGRAPHS 11.1 11.8.
PM .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
3.55 PM
ACTING DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS, PARAGRAPHS 17.1-17.7.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES COVERING THE OPEN HEARING ARE ADVISED TO BRING WITH THEM A COPY OF THE DIRECTOR OF AUDIT’S REPORT.
- - 0
PAK KONG TREATMENT WORKS OPENS TOMORROW
THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD. WILL OFFICIATE AT A CEREMONY TO MARK THE COMPLETION OF STAGE I OF THE PAK KONG TREATMENT WORKS AND WATER TRANSFER FACILITIES PROJECT TOMORROW <THURSDAY).
THE S515 MILLION PROJECT COMPRISES THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE TREATMENT WORKS AT PAK KONG, SAI KUNG, THE ADQUEDUCT TO TSEUNG KWAN O, THE PRIMARY SERVICE RESERVOIR AND THE TRUNK MAIN TO EAST KOWLOON.
IT MARKS A NOTABLE STEP FORWARD IN THE GOVERNMENT’S EFFORTS TO PROVIDE A TREATED WATER SUPPLY TO THE SAI KUNG HINTERLAND AND TSEUNG KWAN O NEW TOWN AND TO SUPPLEMENT THE SUPPLIES TO EAST KOWLOON AND HONG KONG ISLAND.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CEREMONY WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) AT THE PAK KONG TREATMENT WORKS, SAI KUNG.
PRESS TRANSPORTATION WILL BE PROVIDED. A GOVERNMENT COACH (AM5895) WILL LEAVE MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG AT 1.30 PM SHARP.
- - 0 - -
/22
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
22 -
POSTAL APPLICATION FOR LEARNER’S DRIVING LICENCES AND TESTS
ALL APPLICATIONS FOR LEARNER'S DRIVING LICENCES AND DRIVING TESTS FOR COMMERCIAL VEHICLES MUST BE MADE BY POST AS FROM DECEMBER 1, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
APPLICATIONS IN PERSON WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
THIS NEW MEASURE IS AIMED AT CURBING THE TOUTING ACTIVITIES AT THE SHA TIN LICENSING OFFICE WHERE SUCH APPLICATIONS ARE PROCESSED, THE ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT, MR BRIAN COAK, EXPLAINED.
SINCE 1986, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAD RECEIVED NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS FROM DRIVING INSTRUCTORS OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLES THAT SOME OF THEIR FELLOW INSTRUCTORS GAINED MORE BUSINESS BY SENDING SALES AGENTS TO TOUT FOR BUSINESS IN THE WAITING HALL OF THE SHA TIN LICENSING OFFICE.
DESPITE THE INTRODUCTION OF A SERIES OF ADMINISTRATIVE MEASURES AT THE SHA TIN LICENSING OFFICE, INCLUDING THE POSTING OF WARNING NOTICES AND ANNOUNCEMENT OF ADVICE THROUGH THE PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEM, THE TOUTING PROBLEM REMAINED UNABATED.
MR COAK SAID THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAD DECIDED TO IMPLEMENT THE POSTAL APPLICATION SYSTEM AS A LONG TERM MEASURE TO STOP THE TOUTING PROBLEM.
AT THE SAME TIME HE URGED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO UTILISE THE POSTAL SYSTEM OR THE "DROP-OFF" BOX FOR RENEWING DRIVING AND VEHICLE LICENCES TO .SAVE TIME.
THE NEW MEASURE WILL APPLY TO THE FOLLOWING COMMERCIAL VEHICLES: PRIVATE/PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES, TAXIS, PRIVATE/PUBLIC BUSES, MEDTUM/HEAVY GOODS VEHICLES, AND ARTICULATED VEHICLES.
APPLICATION FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT DISTRICT OFFICES, POST OFFICES AND TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT LICENSING OFFICES.
APPLICANTS SHOULD MAIL THE COMPLETED FORMS WITH REMITTANCE TO THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT AT P.O. BOX 73323, KOWLOON CENTRAL POST OFFICE.
FOR ENQUIRIES, APPLICANTS MAY CALL THE SHA TIN LICENSING OFFICE ON TEL. 0-6061027.
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/23.........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 22, 1989
- 23 -
EXHIBITION TO
PROMOTE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH » * » » »
AN EXHIBITION TO PROMOTE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND QUARRYING INDUSTRIES WILL BE HELD AT THE NEW TOWN PLAZA IN SHA TIN FROM FRIDAY TO TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 24 TO 28).
THE "OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVE - CONSTRUCTION AND QUARRYING INDUSTRIES" EXHIBITION IS ORGANISED BY THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH DIVISION OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND CO-ORGANISED BY THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE OF THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL (OSHC).
"THE EXHIBITION AIMS TO ENHANCE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN WORK PLACES. AND TO ACQUAINT EMPLOYERS AND WORKERS WITH THE VARIOUS OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS AND DISEASES IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND QUARRYING INDUSTRIES." THE DEPARTMENT’S SENIOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH OFFICER, DR C.W. YU, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
"THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHS AND SAMPLES ON DISPLAY, VISITORS TO THE EXHIBITION WILL BE ABLE TO GAIN A GOOD UNDERSTANDING OF THE COMMON OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS AND DISEASES AND THEIR PREVENTIVE MEASURES IN THE TWO INDUSTRIES," DR YU ADDED.
THESE INCLUDE SILICOSIS. ASBESTOSIS. CONTACT DERMATITIS, POISONING CAUSED BY ORGANIC SOLVENT AND GAS AS WELL AS DEAFNESS CAUSED BY NOISE.
IN ADDITION TO SLIDE SHOWS, A NEWLY-PRODUCED 18-MINUTE VIDEO ON SILICOSIS WIL BE SCREENED TO EXPLAIN THE CAUSES OF THE DISEASE AND PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES AGAINST IT.
"VISITORS CAN TRY THE LUNG FUNCTION TEST WHICH CAN DETECT EARLY DETERIORATION OF THE LUNGS." DR YU ADDED.
"THEY CAN ALSO OBTAIN INFORMATION ON SOME 1.000 CHEMICALS COMMONLY USED IN LOCAL INDUSTRIES FROM A COMPUTER TOXICOLOGY DATA BANK AT THE EXHIBITION.
"STAFF OF THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH DIVISION WILL BE ON HAND TO EXPLAIN TO VISITORS THE HEALTH HAZARDS RELATING TO THE CHEMICALS." DR YU SAID.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPENED AT 3 PM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 24) BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR MR TONY HAMMOND. THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH. DR S.H. LEE, THE VICE-CHAIRMAN OF OSHC. MR K.Y. TONGSON, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE OSHC’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE. MR PETER NIE.
/THE OPENING .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
2U
THE OPENING HOURS OF THE EXHIBITION ARE FROM 10 AM TO 7 PM DAILY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE ’’OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVE - CONSTRUCTION AND QUARRYING INDUSTRIES” EXHIBITION ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 24) AT 3 PM AT THE FOOTBRIDGE GALLERY. LEVEL THREE. NEW TOWN PLAZA. SHA TIN.
------0-------
OVERSTAYERS ARE LIABLE TO FINES. IMPRISONMENT
******
THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (WEDNESDAY) REITERATED THAT PEOPLE WHO BREACH THEIR CONDITION OF STAY IN HONG KONG ARE LIABLE TO PROSECUTION AND A FINE OF $5,000 AND TWO YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT.
THE REMINDER WAS MADE IN THE LIGHT OF THE CONVICTION OF FOUR FILIPINO DOMESTIC HELPERS AT THE WESTERN MAGISTRACY YESTERDAY (TUESDAY) FOR OVERSTAYING IN HONG KONG.
FIVE FILIPINO DOMESTIC HELPERS WERE ARRESTED ON NOVEMBER 18 BY IMMIGRATION INVESTIGATORS ON BOARD M.V. “VAST PIONEER” IN THE HARBOUR DURING A RAID BASED ON INFORMATION.
THEY WERE WOMEN AGED BETWEEN 25 AND 29 AND HAD BEEN OVERSTAYING IN HONG KONG RANGING FROM TWO MONTHS TO 17 MONTHS.
FOUR OF THEM WERE CONVICTED OF BREACH OF CONDITION OF STAY AND WERE EACH FINED $1,000 IN DEFAULT OF 14 DAYS’ IMPRISONMENT. THE REMAINING OVERSTAYING FILIPINO WOMAN IS STILL ON BAIL TO ASSIST FURTHER ENQUIRIES.
•'OVERSTAYERS WILL REMAIN ON OUR RECORDS UNTIL THEIR CASES ARE CLEARED AND ACTION WILL BE TAKEN IF INFORMATION ABOUT THEIR WHEREABOUTS COMES TO OUR ATTENTION." A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT STRESSED.
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/?5........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 22, 1989
- 25 -
WARNING ON ILLEGAL ROAD RACING ♦ * » * *
POLICE TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WARNED ILLEGAL ROAD RACERS THAT THEIR DANGEROUS ACT MAY LAND THEM IN COURT OR EVEN IN JAIL.
A POLICE SPOKESMAN GAVE THE WARNING WHEN HE WAS COMMENTING ON A COURT CASE IN WHICH A MAN WAS SENTENCED TO TWO MONTHS* IMPRISONMENT AND HAD HIS DRIVING LICENCE SUSPENDED FOR TWO YEARS FOR ILLEGAL ROAD RACING.
’’ILLEGAL ROAD RACING NOT ONLY CAUSES NUISANCE TO RESIDENTS BUT ALSO PUT ONE’S LIFE AND THE LIVES OF OTHERS AT RISK.” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
“APART FROM ILLEGAL ROAD RACING, OFFENDERS MAY ALSO BE CHARGED WITH RELATED OFENCES SUCH AS RECKLESS DRIVING.” HE ADDED.
THE DEFENDANT IN THE COURT CASE CONCERNED. A 21-YEAR-OLD MAN, WAS ARRESTED BY POLICE ON JUNE 4 IN SALISBURY ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI, AFTER HE HAD BEEN SPOTTED FOR RACING AT HIGH SPEED. JUMPING RED LIGHT AND JOGGING POSITIONS. AT 3 AM.
HE WAS SUBSEQUENTLY CHARGED WITH THREE COUNTS OF ILLEGAL ROAD RACING, RECKLESS DRIVING AND DRIVING WITHOUT THIRD PARTY INSURANCE. AND WAS CONVICTED IN SAN PO KONG MAGISTRACY YESTERDAY.
A TWO-MONTH JAIL SENTENCE TOGETHER WITH DISQUALIFICATION OF HIS DRIVING LICENCE FOR TWO YEARS WERE PASSED ON HIM FOR EACH OF THE FIRST TWO OFFENCES. THE SENTENCES ARE TO RUN CONCURRENTLY. A FINE OF $5,000 WAS IMPOSED FOR THE THIRD OFFENCE.
ANOTHER DEFENDANT. A 20-YEAR-OLD MAN WHOSE CAR WAS LOCATED AFTER THE INCIDENT. WAS CHARGED WITH FAILING TO PROVIDE PARTICULARS OF DRIVERS WITHIN THE DEMAND OF 21 DAYS.
HE PLEADED GUILTY IN THE SAME COURT ON SEPTEMBER 5 AND WAS SENTENCED TO A $5,000 FINE.
------0 ------
RESCUERS RECEIVE CERTIFICATES FOR BRAVE DEEDS t t * t t
TEN PUBLIC-SPIRITED PEOPLE WERE EACH AWARDED THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE’S COMMENDATION TODAY (WEDNESDAY) FOR RESCUING PEOPLE FROM THE SEA.
THE 10 COMPRISE SIX CIVILIANS AND FOUR POLICE OFFICERS WHO ON DIFFERENT OCCASIONS DURING THE PAST YEAR RESCUED EIGHT PEOPLE FROM THE WATERS OF HONG KONG.
/THE DIRECTOR .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
- 26 -
THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR DERICK HALL, SAID DURING THE CERTIFICATE PRESENTATION CEREMONY THAT THE 10 HAD ACTED ABOVE THE NORMAL CALL OF DUTY IN RESCUING OTHERS.
HE SAID THAT SOMETIMES HONG KONG WAS REGARDED AS A SELFISH CITY WHERE PEOPLE WERE ONLY INTERESTED IN THEMSELVES AND THEIR FAMILIES.
"THE PRESENCE OF THESE BRAVE PEOPLE HERE TODAY IS A HEARTENING REMINDER THAT THIS IS UNTRUE.
"EACH ONE HAS RISKED HIS OWN LIFE TO SAVE A COMPLETE STRANGER FROM THE SEA," HE SAID.
THE COMMENDATION HAS A HISTORY OF MORE THAN 30 YEARS OF HONOURING THE GALLANTRY OF PEOPLE WHO RESCUE OTHERS DESPITE THE RISK TO THEIR OWN SAFETY.
-----0 ------
DB TO DISCUSS GOVERNOR’S POLICY SPEECH
*****
MEMBERS OF THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD WILL EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS ON THE GOVERNOR'S POLICY SPEECH AT THEIR MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
THEY WILL ALSO CONSIDER AN APPLICATION FROM THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB’S SOUTHERN DISTRICT COMMITTEE FOR USING THE DISTRICT BOARD LOGO ON ITS FLAG.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE REPORTS BY THE DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE. THE BOARD'S FIVE COMMITTEES AND THE DISTRICT’S AREA COMMITTEES.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD MEETING WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM, SECOND FLOOR, MEI FUNG COURT, 7-11 NAM NING STREET. ABERDEEN CENTRE.
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/27.........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22
1989
BRIEFING ON KCRC CROSS HARBOUR LINK PROPOSAL
* * * ♦ »
THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE WILL BE BRIEFED ON A CROSS HARBOUR RAIL LINK PROPOSED BY THE KOWLOON-CANTON RAILWAY CORPORATION (KCRC) AT A MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
THE PROPOSAL IS FOR A CONNECTION FROM THE EXISTING KCR LINE SOUTH OF MONG KOK TO RUN TO A NEW STATION AT WHAMPOA ON THE HUNGHOM BAY RECLAMATION. AND THEN ON TO HONG KONG ISLAND, RUNNING FROM FORTRESS HILL TO THE STAR FERRY.
THE BRIEFING WILL BE GIVEN BY THE KCRC’S CORPORATE PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER. MISS JENNY FUNG. AND AN ENGINEER (PLANNING). MR HERBERT HO.
ALSO AT THE MEETING. MEMBERS WILL CONSIDER AN APPLICATION FOR DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS FOR CONDUCTING A SURVEY ON RAILWAY SERVICES.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE A REQUEST FOR A PEDESTRIAN SIGNAL AT THE JUNCTION OF JOCKEY CLUB ROAD AND LUNG SUM AVENUE TN SHEUNG SHU1. AND A PROPOSAL THAT A PUBLIC LIGHT BUS STAND BE LOCATED NEAR SHEUNG SHU1 RAILWAY STATION.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE NORTH DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE, JOCKEY CLUB ROAD, FANLING.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.
- - 0 - -
PROPOSED PETROL FILLING STATION ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA * * ♦ * ♦
THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS A PROPOSAL TO BUILD A PETROL FILLING STATION IN TSING YI AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
MEMBERS WILL ASK ABOUT THE REDEVELOPMENT OF KWAI CHUNG AND KWAI FONG ESTATES AND DISCUSS MEASURES TO ALLEVIATE THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS CAUSED BY SITE FORMATION WORKS FOR THE REDEVELOPMENT OF THE SHEK YAM RESETTLEMENT AREA.
/THE COMMITTEE’S
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
- 28 -
THE COMMITTEE’S WORKING GROUPS ON VARIOUS COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES WILL REPORT THE PROGRESS OF THEIR WORK.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING COMMITTEE WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM, 10TH FLOOR. KWAI HING GOVERNMENT OFFICES BULDING. KWAI CHUNG.
--------0 ---------
AFTERSCHOOL CARE PROGRAMME ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA
*****
THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY WELFARE COMMITTEE WILL BE BRIEFED ON THE AFTERSCHOOL CARE PROGRAMME TO BE RUN BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AT THE COMMITTEE’S MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
THE PROGRAMME IS TO PROVIDE SERVICES. SUCH AS HOMEWORK GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING. FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN AGED BETWEEN SIX AND 12. SHAM SHUI PO HAS BEEN SELECTED BY THE DEPARTMENT AS ONE OF THE FIVE REGIONS WHERE AN EXPERIMENTAL PROJECT FOR SUCH A SERVICE IS TO BE CARRIED OUT.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS A REPORT BY THE WORKING GROUP ON HOUSING FOR THE ELDERLY FORMED BY THE HOUSING AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENTS AND ENOUIRF ABOUT THE REPROVIS TONING OF THE MORNING LIGHT SCHOOL AT PAK TIN ESTATE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY WELFARE COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (THURSDAY) AT THE SHEK KIP MEI COMMUNITY HALL. BLOCK 42, SHEK KIP MEI ESTATE. NAM CHEONG STREET.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.
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/29........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
SPORTS DAY FOR ELDERLY IN WONG TAI SIN
*****
MORE THAN 100 ELDERLY RESIDENTS IN WONG TAI SIN WILL TAKE PART IN A SPORTS DAY SPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR THEM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25).
THE EVENT WILL BE HELD AT THE INDOOR GAMES HALL IN MORSE PARK, BEGINNING AT 9 AM.
IT IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS COUNCIL AND THE URBAN COUNCIL AS ONE OF THE MANY ACTIVITIES OF THE CURRENT DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
"THE AIM OF THE SPORTS DAY IS TO ENHANCE UNDERSTANDING AMONG ELDERLY RESIDENTS IN THE DISTRICT AND TO WIDEN THEIR SOCIAL CIRCLE." A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID.
"IT IS ALSO AIMED AT INCREASING THEIR SENSE OF BELONGING TO THE COMMUNITY." HE ADDED.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SPORTS DAY FOR THE ELDERLY OF THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL TO BE HELD AT THE MORSE PARK INDOOR GAMES HALL ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25). THE EVENT WILL BEGIN AT 9 AM.
- 0 -
GOVT LOT IN KWUN TONG TO LET BY TENDER
*****
THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE SHORT TERM TENANCY OF A SITE IN KWUN TONG.
THE 6.200 SQUARE METRES SITE IS LOCATED AT SHUN LEE TSUEN ROAD. KWUN TONG.
IT IS FOR USE AS OPEN SPACE STORAGE. EXCLUDING CONTAINERS.
Till TENANCY IS FOR ONE YEAR. RENEWABLE QUARTERLY AFTERWARDS.
THE CLOSING DATE FOR ACCEPTANCE OF TENDERS FOR THE SITE IS NOON ON DECEMBER 8.
FORM OF TENDER. TENDER. NOTICE AND CONDITIONS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM AND TINDER PLAN INSPECTED AT Till DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE. KOWLOON EAST. 10T1I FLOOR, YAU MA TEI CARPARK BUILDING. 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON: AND FROM THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT. IITII FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING. GARDEN ROAD. HONG KONG.
0
/50
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1989
- 30 -
MEASURES TO ALLEVIATE CONGESTION ON MTR *****
A NUMBER OF ADDITIONAL MEASURES WILL BE INTRODUCED SHORTLY TO ALLEVIATE THE CONGESTION ON THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY NATHAN ROAD CORRIDOR DURING PEAK HOURS. A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN ANNOUNCED TODAY {WEDNESDAY).
THE KOWLOON MOTOR BUS COMPANY WILL INTRODUCE THREE NEW OR MODIFIED ROUTES AND ONE CROSS HARBOUR ROUTE NEXT YEAR TO DIVERT COMMUTERS FROM THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY.
A COACH SERVICE. ROUTE 38X FROM RIVIERA GARDEN IN TSUEN WAN TO THE CHINA FERRY TERMINAL IN TSIM SHA TSUI, WILL BE INTRODUCED IN JANUARY.
THE EXISTING BUS ROUTE 43D BETWEEN CHEUNG CHING IN TSING YI AND SHAM SHUI PO FERRY WILL BE EXTENDED TO CHEUNG HANG IN TSING YI AND JORDAN ROAD FERRY IN MARCH.
IN AUGUST, A NEW BUS ROUTE 79X FROM TAI PING ESTATE IN NORTH DISTRICT TO JORDAN ROAD FERRY AND CROSS HARBOUR ROUTE 690 FROM HING SING IN TSEUNG KWAN 0 TO CENTRAL WILL BE PUT INTO SERVICE.
IN ADDITION. A FERRY LINK FROM TSING YI TO CENTRAL HAS BEEN INTRODUCED SINCE MID-NOVEMBER TO RELIEVE THE DEMAND ON THE MTR TSUEN WAN LINE.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS DISCUSSING WITH THE MTRC FOR THE RE-1NTRODUCT1ON OF FREE BUS SERVICES FROM HUNG HOM KCR STATION TO THE MTR STATION IN TSIM SHA TSUI.
FREE FEEDER BUS ROUTES FROM KOWLOON TONG AND HUNG HOM KCR STATIONS TO THE MTR STATION IN TSIM SHA TSUI HAD BEEN MAINTAINED DURING THE MORNING PEAK HOURS FROM MAY TO AUGUST. THE SERVICES WERE SUSPENDED FOLLOWING THE OPENING OF THE RAIL SECTION OF THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THE INTERMODAL CO-ORDINATION POLICY HAD BEEN FLEXIBLY APPLIED. FOUR CROSS HARBOUR BUS ROUTES AND THREE BUS ROUTES FROM EAST AND WEST NEW TERRITORIES TO SOUTH KOWLOON HAD BEEN INTRODUCED TO ALLEVIATE THE MTR PEAK HOR CONGESTION PROBLEM.
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/31 .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22,
1989
- 51 -
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN TUEN MUN. KWAI CHUNG *****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 24), THE EASTERN KERBSIDE OF TUEN MUN HEUNG SZE WUI ROAD SECTION FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH HO PONG STREET TO A POINT APPROXIMATELY 95 METRES SOUTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY FROM 7 AM TO MIDNIGHT DAILY.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS THERE.
IN KWAI CHUNG, TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FOOTBRIDGE, THE SECTION OF KOWLOON BOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF CASTLE PEAK ROAD BETWEEN CHEUNG WING ROAD AND LEI MUK ROAD WILL BE TEMPORARILY CLOSED FROM 1 AM TO 5.30 AM ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 24 AND 25) RESPECTIVELY.
DURING THE CLOSURE, TRAFFIC ON CASTLE PEAK ROAD HEADING FOR KOWLOON WILL BE DIVERTED TO USE KWOK SHUI ROAD, LEI MUK ROAD, AND WO YI HOP ROAD.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SHAM SHUT PO AND KOWLOON (’TTY r t * ♦ »
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON FRIDAY (NOVEMBER 24), THE RIGHT-TURNING FROM TONKIN STREET SOUTHBOUND ONTO LAI CHI KOK ROAD WESTBOUND IN SHAM SHUT PO WILL BE RESUMED IN CONNECTION WITH THE OPENING OF THE EXTENSION OF TONKIN STREET NORTHBOUND BETWEEN TUNG CHAU STREET AND LAI CHI KOK ROAD.
AT THE SAME TIME, TRAFFIC CONTROL MEASURES WILL BE IMPOSED ON
GULLANE ROAD IN KOWLOON CITY.
THE SECTION OF GULLANE ROAD FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH ARGYLE STREET TO A POINT ABOUT 50 METRES SOUTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY 24 HOURS DAILY.
THF SECTION OF GULLANE ROAD FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH PERTH STREET TO X POINT ABOUT 40 METRES NORTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION WILL BE DESIGNATED AN URBAN CLEARWAY FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY.
WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREAS. XLL MOTOR VEHICLES, EXCEPT THOSE WITH PERMITS. ISSUED BY Till COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT. WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM STOPPING FOR PASSENGERS AND GOODS.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.. 5-8428777
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
RESHUFFLE TO MAKE SECRETARIAT MORE EFFICIENT, COST-EFFECTIVE 1
ANOTHER MILESTONE IN HK'S WATER SUPPLY PROGRAMME ........ 2
HK ECONOMY WELL POISED FOR EXPLOITING OPPORTUNITIES: FS .... 3
STUDY TO BE CONDUCTED ON COMPUTERISING VOTING AND VOTE COUNTS ..................................................... 6
ACTION PLAN IN HAND ON FLOATING REFUSE................... 7
DISTRICT ENVIRONMENT STATEMENT FOR CENTRAL AND WESTERN... 9
CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES FOR OCTOBER PUBLISHED ............ 10
COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) (AMENDMENT) RULES 1989 TO BE GAZETTED 13
S1A MILLION FOR IMPROVING REHABILITATION SERVICES ....... 14
REHABILITATION CAMPAIGN TO BE LAUNCHED EARLY NEXT MONTH .... 15
EXPANSION IN CHILD CARE SERVICES ........................ 16
HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAMME FOR KWUN TONG ELDERLY......... 16
SHA SEES DEVELOPMENTS ON LANTAU ......................... 17
SOUTHERN DISTRICT AFFAIRS SYMPOSIUM ON SATURDAY ......... 18
GYMNASTIC SHOW TO END DISTRICT FESTIVAL ................. 19
YAU TSIM CARNIVAL TO ENHANCE COMMUNITY SPIRIT ........... 20
MORE DISTRICT FESTIVAL EVENTS FOR KWUN TONG RESIDENTS ... 20
DB COMMITTEE TO BE BRIEFED ON ROAD IMPROVEMENTS ......... 21
MEASURES TO STAMP OUT MALPRACTICES AT TAI PO FISH MARKET ... 22
PRECAUTIONS IN ASBESTOS WORK URGED ...................... 23
EXHIBITION ON EMPLOYMENT SERVICES FOR PROFESSIONALS ..... 23
TSZ WAN SHAN EMPLOYMENT OFFICE CLOSES ................... 24
SUPERMARKET FINED FOR IMPROPER LABELLING ................ 25
MORE THAN 3,000 MEMBERS ATTEND CYC ANNUAL PARADE......... 25
BOE MEMBERS VISIT FIELD STUDIES CENTRE .................. 26
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN CHAI WAN ........................ 27
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN SHA TIN .......................... 28
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN KOWLOON CITY...................... 28
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 23, 1989
1
RESHUFFLE TO MAKE SECRETARIAT MORE EFFICIENT. ('OST-EFFECTIVE ♦ * t ♦ t
THE RESHUFFLE OF SENIOR CIVIL SERVANTS ANNOUNCED YESTERDAY WAS PO MAKE THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT MORE EFFICIENT AND COST-EFFECTIVE AS WELL AS TO RATIONALIST THI WORK OF THE BRANCHES CONCERNED, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
THE ROLE OF BOTH GENERAL DUTIES BRANCH AND CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS BRANCH WOULD CHANGE OVER THE PERIOD OF NEXT YEAR WITH THE PUBLICATION OF THE BASIC' LAW AND THE POSTING HERE OF THE J LG REPRESENTATIVE. SIR DAVID TOLD REPORTERS AFTER OFFICIATING AT THE INAUGURATION OF THE PAR KONG WATER TREATMENT PLANT.
IN RATIONALISING THE ROLE OF THE TWO BRANCHES. SIR DAVID SAID THAT THERE WAS NOW ENOUGH POLICE CONTENT FOR ONI POLICY SECRETARY RATHER THAN TWO.
THAT COINCIDED WITH THE DEPARTURE OF MR GREWAL AND ALSO THE NEED TO FIND A DIRECTOR OF MARINE BECAUSE MR HALL IS GOING OFF TO LONDON. IT WAS FOR THAT REASON THAT THE POSTINGS WHICH WERE ANNOUNCED YESTERDAY WERE ALL PUT IN PLACE." HI SAID.
THERE WAS NOTHING SINISTER ABOUT ANY OF THOSE POSTINGS, SIR DAVID STRESSED.
"NO ONE HAS BEEN DEMOTED. THOSE WHO SUGGESTED THAT ANYBODY HAS ARE REALLY QUITE WRONG. EVERYBODY HAS BEEN POSTED IN THEIR SUBSTANTIVE RANK AND THEREFORE THERE IS NO QUESTION OF DEMOTION.
"IT IS QUITE USUAL INDEED IN THE GOVERNMENT SERVICE FOR SECRETARIES TO ACT FOR A WHILE AND THEN GO OFF AND HEAD A DEPARTMENT," HE POINTED OUT.
SIR DAVID ALSO NOTED THAT MR BARRIE WIGGHAM WAS AN IDEAL CHOICE IN THE GOVERNMENT TO HE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE BECAUSE OF HIS WORK EXPERIENCE ON A LARGE NUMBER OF SUBJECTS.
"OBVIOUSLY HIE GOVERNOR WOULD HAVE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT HIS WIDE EXPERIENCE IN APPOINTING HIM TO THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL." HE ADDED.
ASKED TO COMMENT ON FEARS BY MAINLAND DRAFTERS THAT THERE MIGHT NOT BE CONVERGENCE IN 1997 IF DEMOCRACY PROCEEDED TOO FAST IN HONG KONG AND THE POTENTIAL CONTRAD I CTI ON II THE GOVERNMENT HAD ADMITTED THAT THE HONG KONG PEOPLE WANTED A FASTER PACE. SIR DAVID SAID: "I DON’T THINK THERE IS A CONTRADICTION IN THAT WE ALWAYS TRY, IN ADJUSTING THE PACE OF POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT HERE, TO REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE HONG KONG PEOPLE.
"THE BASIC LAW DRAFTERS FOR THEIR PART ARE ALSO ANXIOUS TO REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE HONG KONG PEOPLE WHEN THEY ARI ESTABLISHING WHAT SHOULD GO INTO THE BASIC LAW. SO I SEE NO PROBLEM ON THE BASIS OF CONVERGENCE FOR Till' FUTURE."
- - O -
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 23. 1989
2
ANOTHER MILESTONE
IN UK’S WATER SUPPLY PROGRAMME *****
THE GOVERNMENT’S EFFORTS IN PROVIDING A TREATED WATER SUPPLY TO EVERY COMMUNITY IN THE TERRITORY HAS TAKEN A NOTABLE STEP FORWARD WITH THE COMPLETION OF STAGE OF THE PAK KONG TREATMENT WORKS AND WATER TRANSFER FACILITIES PROJECT.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY. SIR. DAVID FORD. WHEN HE OFFICIATED AT THE INAUGURATION CEREMONY FOR THE PROJECT AT THE PAK KONG TREATMENT WORKS IN SAI KUNG TODAY (THURSDAY).
SIR DAVID SAID THE PROJECT. WHICH COSTS OVER SI,000 MILLION. WAS YET ANOTHER MILESTONE IN HONG KONG’S WATER SUPPLY PROGRAMME AS ONE OF THE MANY FAR-SIGHTED AND INNOVATIVE WATER WORKS PROJECTS OF WORLD CLASS STANDARD UNDERTAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT. LIKE THE PLOVER COVE AND HIGH ISLAND RESERVOIRS.
THE PAK KONG PROJECT. WHICH IS IMPLEMENTED IN TWO STAGES, IS TO PROVIDE A TREATED WATER SUPPLY TO THE SAI KUNG HINTERLAND AND THE TSEUNG KWAN O NEW TOWN AS WELL AS TO SUPPLEMENT THE SUPPLIES TO EAST KOWLOON AND HONG KONG ISLAND.
STAGE I OF THE PROJECT, WHICH IS NOW COMPLETED, COMPRISES THE TREATMENT WORKS. THE AQUEDUCT TO TSEUNG KWAN O, THE PRIMARY SERVICE RESERVOIR AND THE TRUNK MAIN TO EAST KOWLOON.
THE SYSTEM INCLUDES A SEVEN-KILOMETRE AQUEDUCT WHICH TAKES THE TREATED WATER TO THE PRIMARY SERVICE RESERVOIR IN TSEUNG KWAN 0.
FROM THERE. THE MAIN AQUEDUCT FROM THE PRIMARY RESERVOIR EXTENDS FOR FIVE KILOMETRES TO EAST KOWLOON AND FURTHER LINKS UP WITH THE NORTHEAST OF HONG KONG ISLAND BY THE EASTERN CROSS HARBOUR SUBMARINE PIPELINE WHICH WILL SOON BE COMMISSIONED.
STAGE II OF THE PROJECT. WHICH IS SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION IN 1991, WILL EXTEND THE CAPACITY OF THE PAK KONG WATER TREATMENT WORKS BY ABOUT THREE TIMES TO 800.000 CUBIC METRES PER DAY TO MEET ANTICIPATED INCREASE IN DEMAND.
THE CAPACITY OF TSEUNG KWAN O PRIMARY SERVICE RESERVOIR WILL ALSO BE INCREASED FROM 90.000 TO 150,000 CUB IC METRES.
SIR DAVID ALSO NOTED THAI' THE WHOLE PROJECT. WHEN COMPLETED, WOULD SERVE AS A VITAL LINK AND ADD GREATER FLEXIBILITY TO THE WHOLE HONG KONG WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM.
"RAW WATER FROM CHINA DISCHARGING INTO PLOVER COVE RESERVOIR CAN NOW BE CARRIED THROUGH A NEW SUBMARINE AQUEDUCT ACROSS THE TOLO CHANNEL AND A TUNNEL FROM SAI 0 TO PAK KONG.
"AFTER THE WATER IS TREATED. IT CAN BE CONVEYED TO THE RAPIDLY DEVELOPING AREAS OF EAST KOWLOON AND NORTHEAST HONG KONG ISLAND." HE SAID.
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THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 23, 1989
- 5 -
HK ECONOMY WELL POISED FOR EXPLOITING OPPORTUNITIES: FS
HONG KONG HAS DEVELOPED A MUCH GREATER DEPTH AND STRENGTH OVER THE YEARS AND IT IS NOW MORE FIRMLY WOVEN INTO THE FABRIC OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AND WORLD TRADE, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, SIR PIERS JACOBS, SAID THIS (THURSDAY) EVENING.
SPEAKING AT A DINNER MEETING OF THE HONG KONG SOCIETY OF ACCOUNTANTS ON THE STRUCTURAL ADJUSTMENT IN THE HONG KONG ECONOMY, SIR PIERS SAID THAT HONG KONG’S INFLUENCE HAD SPREAD OUT IN WAYS THAT WE PERHAPS COULD NOT HAVE IMAGINED A COUPLE OF DECADES AGO.
"THE WAY AHEAD IS NOT WITHOUT ITS DIFFICULTIES. THE ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH WE WORK IS NOT ALWAYS SMOOTH. CHALLENGES SUCH AS PROTECTIONIST THREATS, COMPETITION FROM OTHER EXPORTING ECONOMIES, AND UNCERTAINTIES IN THE WORLD COMMODITY AND CURRENCY MARKETS CONTINUE TO EXIST.
"NEVERTHELESS, WITH THE FAMILIAR INGREDIENTS THAT HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO OUR ECONOMIC SUCCESS UP TO NOW WE ARE WELL-POISED TO EXPLOIT OPPORTUNITIES AS THEY ARISE.
"I BELIEVE WITHIN THE ECONOMY
THAT THE TRANSFORMATION THAT HAS BEEN TAKING PLACE REINFORCES OUR CAPABILITY IN THIS REGARD,” HE SAID.
STR PIERS SPOKE OF THE STRUCTURAL CHANGES AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES THAT LAY AHEAD FOR THE HONG KONG ECONOMY.
HF TOUCHED ON THE CURRENT SITUATION IN THE ECONOMY. PRIMARILY BECAUSE CM Till CONSTRAINTS ON CAPACITY AND A SLACKENING OF DEMAND IN BOTH THE EXTERNAL AND DOMESTIC SECTORS. THE RATE OF ECONOMIC GROWTH HAS SLOWED DOWN MARKEDLY.
THE FORECAST OF GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT GROWTH FOR 1989 IS BLING REVISED DOWNWARDS TO THREE PER CENT. SIR PIERS SAID THAT FURTHER DETAILS WOULD BE RELEASED TOMORROW (FRIDAY), BUT COMMENTED THAT THE THIRD QUARTER HAD BEEN DISAPPOINTING AND THAT THIS HAD AFFECTED THE FORECAST FOR THE YEAR AS A WHOLE.
ELABORATING ON THE STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN THE ECONOMY, SIR PIERS SAID IN RECENT YEARS, HONG KONG HAD SEEN THE RAPID TRANSFORMATION TOWARDS TRADING AND SERVICES. ALTHOUGH THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY HAD REMAINED A SECTOR OF CONSIDERABLE IMPORTANCE.
THE RAPID DEVELOPMENT IN ECONOMIC RELATIONS BETWEEN HONG KONG AND CHINA OVER .JUST A FEW YEARS HAS CONTRIBUTED GREATLY TO THE GROWTH AND THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMY.
"Till PACE OF DEVELOPMENT IS. HOWEVER. SUSCEPTIBLE TO CHANGES IN THE ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL CLIMATE IN ('HINA.’ HE SAID.
/HOWEVER, SIR
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1989
4
HOWEVER, SIR PIERS POINTED OUT THAT GIVEN TIME, HE REMAINED CONFIDENT THAT THE ESSENTIAL MERITS OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HONG KONG AND THE MAINLAND, AND THE GOOD SENSE OF SO MANY PEOPLE WOULD ULTIMATELY PREVAIL.
"OVER THE LONGER TERM WE WILL SEE THE ENORMOUS TRADE AND INVESTMENT POTENTIAL IN CHINA DEVELOPING YET AGAIN.
"THIS CANNOT FAIL TO BENEFIT NOT ONLY THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG BUT ALSO CHINA ITSELF.” HE SAID.
APART FROM THE REMARKABLE GROWTH IN HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORT TRADE RELATING TO CHINA AND OTHER ECONOMIES IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION WHICH HAD A HIGHLY BENEFICIAL EFFECT ON ITS VISIBLE TRADE, SIR PIERS SAID HONG KONG ALSO WITNESSED RAPID GROWTH IN ITS INVISIBLE TRADE.
"PART OF THE REASON FOR THIS IS THAT MANY OF OUR SERVICES ARE RELATED TO MERCHANDISE TRADE,” HF SAID, CITING AS EXAMPLES OUR CONTAINER PORT WHICH IS NOW THE BUSIEST IN THE WORLD AND THE RAPID GROWTH IN CIVIL AVIATION IN TERMS OF PASSENGERS AND AIR CARGO.
TURNING TO THE FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR. THE SECURITIES INDUSTRY AND VARIOUS TYPES OF PROFESSIONAL AND SUPPORTING BUSINESS SERVICES. HF SAID THERE HAD ALSO BEEN A VAST AMOUNT OF ACTIVITY.
A POINT I WOULD LIKE TO STRESS IS THAT IN THE SERVICES SECTOR IN PARTICULAR THERE IS A STRONG INTERNATIONAL ELEMENT.
’’ONE OF THE BEAUTIES OF HONG KONG IS THAT PEOPLE FROM MANY PLACES IN THE WORLD CAN COME HERE AND FEEL IMMEDIATELY AT HOME, HAVING REGARD TO THF WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES THAT ARE AVAILABLE. OFTEN PROVIDED BY FIRMS WHICH EMPLOY THEIR OWN COUNTRYMEN.
HONG KONG IS PART OF THE WORLD. AND WE NEED TO REMEMBER THAT FACT." HE \DDEI).
SIR PIERS ALSO DWELT ON THE CHANGES WITHIN THF MANUFACTURING SECTOR WHICH AT PRESENT EMPLOYED OVER 800,000 PEOPLE.
HE SAID LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY HAD DEEN RISING RAPIDLY AND LT HAD BEEN BOOSTED BY THE HIGH RATI OF INVESTMENT IN MANUFACTURING MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS.
' WI HAVE \I.SO SEEN AN UPGRADING Ol TECHNOLOGY. AND THUS THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR HAS DEEN ABLE TO MAINTAIN A STABLE SHARE OF ITS VALUE ADDED IN THE GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT. NOTWITHSTANDING A DECLINE IN ITS WORKFORCE. ‘ HE SAID.
WHILE EXPECTING THE TRANSFORMATION FROM MANUFACTURING TO SERVICES TO CONTINUE. HE SAID PAST PRESSURES ON HONG KONG HAD DONE MUCH TO INDUCE MANUFACTURERS TO LOOK TO CHINA AND. INDEED. TO OTHER PLACES. IN ORDER TO DIVERSIFY THEIR OPERATIONS.
'WI- NOW SEE INVESTMENT TAKING PLACE IN MALAYSIA AND THAILAND AND OTHER UI. Ari?; IN Till RIG ION. AND AS A RESULT OF THESE DEVELOPMENTS, HONG KONG WILL BECOME INCREASINGLY GEARED TOWARDS THE SERVICE COMPONENTS OF THE MANUFACTURING OPERATION.” HE SAID.
/FURTHERMORE, SIR .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2J, 1989
5 -
FURTHERMORE, SIR PIERS POINTED OUT THAT HONG KONG IN SOME INDUSTRIES HAD BECOME THE CENTRE OJ A WORLDWIDE DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM, TAKING ORDERS, PLACING THEM WITH MANUFACTURERS, SOURCING FROM MORE THAN ONE COUNTRY AND GUARANTEEING QUALITY AND DEI, I VERY ON TIME AT AN AGREED PRICE ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE GLOBE.
"PUT SIMPLY, HONG KONG IS THE BASE OF AN EXTENDED PRODUCTION NETWORK. IN TRADING AND SERVICES, THE CONTINUOUS UPGRADING OF OPERATIONS THROUGH MORE WIDESPREAD OFFICE AUTOMATION AND USE OF COMPUTERS AND BETTER MANAGEMENT METHODS HAS ENABLED THE COMPANIES CONCERNED TO KEEP ABREAST OF COMPETITION.
"AND OUR MARKETS AND RANGE OF AVAILABLE SERVICES ARE BEING DIVERSIFIED SO AS TO WIDEN THE SCOPE FOR GROWTH.
"THESE EFFORTS WILL BE IN KEEPING WITH HONG KONG’S POSITION AS THE HUB OF BUSINESS IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION," HE SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE OPPORTUNITIES OFFERED BY THE INDUSTRIALISED AND DEVELOPING ECONOMIES IN SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND AROUND THIS PART OF THE PACIFIC RIM SHOULD NOT BE UNDERESTIMATED.
"WE HAVE SEEN OUR EXPORTS TO JAPAN GROWING OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS OR SO. CLEARLY THERE REMAINS GREAT POTENTIAL IN THAT MARKET IF WE CAN LEARN TO EXPLOIT IT." HE SAID.
HE ADDED THAT HONG KONG'S TRADITIONAL MARKETS, THE UNITED STATES. THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY. WOULD CONTINUE TO BE THE MAINSTAY OF OUR EXPORT TRADE.
ON THE GOVERNMENT’S ROLE. SIR PIERS SAID HONG KONG HAD TRADITIONALLY PURSUED A POLICY OF MINIMUM INTERVENTION IN THE ECONOMY.
"THERE IS. HOWEVER, A VERY REAL ROLE FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO PLAY IN TERMS OF SUPPORT AND FACILITATION," HF. SAID.
"AS YOU KNOW. THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN INVESTING HEAVILY IN OUR INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT. IN EDUCATION. AND IN VARIOUS OTHER PROGRAMMES. ALL WITH A VIEW TO ENHANCING THE PRODUCTIVE CAPACITY AND THE PRODUCTIVITY OF THE ECONOMY." HF ADDED.
"IT IS CLEAR TO ALL THAT WHAT WE ARE TALKING ABOUT IS A PROGRAMME DESIGNED TO CARRY HONG KONG FORWARD WELI INTO THE NEXT CENTURY." HE SAID. ADDING THAT IN Illi GLOBAL MARKET PLACE. COMMUNICATIONS WERE ALL IMPORTANT AND HONG KONG HAD NO INTENTION OF LAGGING BEHIND IN PROVIDING HUM.
IN CONCLUSION, SIR PIERS SUGGESTED TAKING A LONGER TERM VIEW OF HONG KONG'S ECONOMIC AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND ITS HUMAN DIMENSION.
1 BELIEVE THAT IF YOU DO SO. YOU WILL SHAKE WITH ME MY OPTIMISM FOR THE FUTURE. HE SAID.
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THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 23, 1989
STUDY TO BE CONDUCTED ON COMPUTERISING VOTING AND VOTE COUNTS *****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS DECIDED TO MAKE AN IN-DEPTH FEASIBILITY STUDY ON COMPUTERISING VOTING AND VOTE COUNTS IN FUTURE ELECTIONS. THE SECRETARY FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SUEN. SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF THE PO LEUNG KUK BOARD OF DIRECTORS. MR SUEN SAID THE DECISION FOLLOWED A PRELIMINARY STUDY BY AN INTER-GOVERNMENTAL WORKING GROUP.
HE SAID FINDINGS BY THE WORKING GROUP HAD SHOWN THAT THE USE OF COMPUTERS IN ELECTIONS WAS FEASIBLE BUT IT WAS NECESSARY TO LOOK DEEPER INTO THE FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL ASPECTS.
"AT PRESENT, OUR ELECTORAL ROLL CARRIES A TOTAL OF ABOUT 1.6 MILLION NAMES. REPRESENTING 45 PER CENT OF AN ESTIMATED POTENTIAL ELECTORATE OF 3.6 MILLION," HE SAID.
"NEXT SUMMER. BEFORE THE VARIOUS ELECTIONS TAKE PLACE IN 1991, WE HOPE TO MOUNT A MAJOR PROMOTION CAMPAIGN AND OUR TARGET IS 2.2 MILLION REGISTERED ELECTORS.
"TO COPE WITH THE FUTURE CHALLENGES ARISING FROM AN EXPECTED INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF ELECTORS. LATEST TECHNOLOGY SHOULD COME IN."
TN VOTING. MR SUEN SAID THE EXISTING PRACTICE WAS A MANUAL POLL CARI) SYSTEM WHICH DESIGNATED ELECTORS TO SPECIFIED POLLING STATIONS ACCORDING TO THEIR REGISTERED ADDRESSES.
"THIS SYSTEM LACKS FLEXIBILITY AS SOME ELECTORS MIGHT FOR. SOME REASONS BE UNABLE TO VOTE AT THEIR DESIGNATED POLLING STATIONS ALTHOUGH THEY MIGHT HAVE PASSED BY SOME OTHER POLLING STATIONS DURING THE DAY." HE SAID.
"COMPUTERISATION OF OUR RECORDS WILL THEREFORE NOT ONLY PROVIDE CONVENIENCE TO ELECTORS BUT ALSO BRING ABOUT A HIGHER POLLING RATE."
MR SUEN SAID WHAT WOULD BE NEEDED WAS A CENTRAL COMPUTER STORED WITH DATA ABOUT ALL REGISTERED ELECTORS AND CONNECTED TO SOME 1.750 TERMINALS IN POLLING STATIONS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.
"THE TOTAL COST IS ESTIMATED TO BE IN THE REGION OF S200 MILLION. ’ HE SAID.
"WHETHER THIS IS COST EFFECTIVE IN THE ALLOCATION OF OUR FINANCIAL RESOURCES WILL NEED TO BE CAREFULLY CONSIDERED."
MR SUEN SAID THAT AS POLLING RATE WAS EXPECTED TO GO UP. THERE WAS ALSO THE NEED TO LOOK INTO THE COMPUTERISATION OF VOTE COUNTS.
/’’SUPPOSE A
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER ?}, 19$9
"SUPPOSE A MILLION PEOPLE CAST THEIR VOTES. THE TIME REQUIRED FOR MANUAL COUNTING WOULD BE MORE THAN 12 HOURS." HE SAID.
"OUR OBJECTIVE IS TO E ABLE TO ANNOUNCE THE RESULTS OF THE ELECTION WITHIN A FEW HOURS AI ER IT HAS FINISHED.
"WE ARE THINKING OF MAKING USE OF COMPUTER-OPERATED OPTICAL MARK READERS TO DO THE WORK, AND THE ESTIMATED COST IS ABOUT S18 MILLION.
"OUR ESTIMATED BASIC REQUIREMENT IS A SYSTEM CAPABLE OF PROCESSING 1.5 MILLION BALLOT PAPERS WITHIN THREE HOURS, AND ALSO CAPABLE OF EXPANSION TO MEET FUTURE NEEDS."
THE IN-DEPTH FEASIBILITY STUDY WILL BE CARRIED OUT BY THE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
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ACTION PLAN TN HAND ON FLOATING REFUSE *****
NEW MEASURES ARE IN HAND TO TACKLE THE LONG-STANDING PROBLEM OF FLOATING REFUSE IN HONG KONG’S HARBOUR.
A SPECIAL TASKFORCE, THE STEERING GROUP ON FLOATING REFUSE, SET UP UNDER THE PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS BRANCH (PELB) HAS DEVISED A 30-PO1NT ACTION PLAN TO DEAL WITH THE PROBLEM.
THE ACTION PLAN HAS BEEN ENDORSED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION ADVISORY COMMITTEE AT ITS MEETING ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 20).
THE STEERING GROUP’S CHAIRMAN. MR ANTHONY COOPER, WHO IS ALSO PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY (ENVIRONMENT) OF THE PELB, SAID: "THE PROBLEM OF FLOATING REFUSE IS NOT ONLY UNSIGHTLY A BLOT ON ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL HARBOURS - BUT A HAZARD TO SHIPPING AND AN UNNECESSARY CHARGE TO GOVERNMENT."
THE MARINE DEPARTMENT ESTIMATES THE LEVEL OF FLOATING REFUSE AT ABOUT 16 TONNES A DAY.
THIS IS THE RESULT OF WIDESPREAD INDISCRIMINATE LITTERING. THE PROBLEM IS EXACERBATED BY THE DIFFICULTY OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL ALONG WATERFRONT AREAS AND THE PROBLEM OF SCAVENGING SUBSTANTIAL AMOUNTS OF FLOATING REFUSE IN A LARGE AND BUSY HARBOUR.
MR. COOPER SAID A PRINCIPAL FEATURE OF THE PLAN IS A BOLD ENGINEERING ATTEMPT TO TRAP REFUSE BE I ORI- IT GETS INTO THE HABOUR. OTHER FEATURES INCLUDE PROPOSALS FOR MORE EFFECTIVE COLLECTION OF FLOATING REFUSE AND INCREASED ENFORCEMENT AGAINST MARINE LITTERING.
/ON THE .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
- 8 -
ON THE PREVENTION FRONT. IMPROVEMENTS WILL BE MADE FOR:
(A) REFUSE COLLECTION SERVICES ON LAND IN AREAS WHERE LITTER CAN BE WASHED DIRECTLY INTO THE HARBOUR;
(B) CLEANSING OF CARGO HANDLING AREAS;
(C) CLEANSING AND COLLECTION ARRANGEMENTS FOR SHIPYARDS;
ID) BOOMING OF RECLAMATION SITES;
IE) COLLECTION OF REFUSE FROM SHIPS IN PORT AND DWELLING VESSELS IN TYPHOON SHELTERS;
< F) CLEANLINESS OF FISH CULTURE ZONES; AND
(G> INTERCEPTION OF REFUSE AT STORMWATER OUTFALLS AND NULLAHS BEFORE IT ENTERS THE HARBOUR.
THERE ARE MORE THAN 100 STORMWATER OUTFALLS AROUND THE HARBOUR EDGE. MR COOPER SAID THEY WILL IDENTIFY THOSE THAT CONTRIBUTE MOST FLOATING REFUSE TO THF HARBOUR AND TRIALS ARE UNDERWAY TO EXAMINE THE MOST EFFECTIVE METHODS FOR TRAPPIING AND CLEARING REFUSE FROM THESE OUTFALLS.
MEANWHILE, ACTIONS TO IMPROVE COLLECTION OF FLOATING REFUSE WILL BE MADE IN:
(A) TYPHOON SHELTERS: WHERE DEDICATED TEAMS OPERATE;
(B) HARBOUR WATERS: WHERE SPECIALISED COLLECTION VESSELS OPERATE;
(C> OUTSIDE HARBOUR WATERS: WHERE A NEW CATAMARAN TYPE OF COLLECTION VESSEL WILL OPERATE ON A TRIAL BASIS FOR SIX MONTHS; AND
( D >
REFUSE COLLECTION POINTS: WHERE THERE IS AN EXISTING
SHORTAGE OF HARBOUR SIDE LOCATIONS AND CAPACITY FOR THE
TRANSFER OF REFUSE FROM VESSELS TO SHORE FOR EVENTUAL
DISPOSAL.
FURTHER, THE STEERING GROUP WILL CARRY OUT A DETAILED EXAMINATION INTO THE FEASIBILITY OF PRIVATISING ALL ASPECTS OF THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE COLLECTION OF FLOATING REFUSE.
ON THE ENFORCEMENT FRONT, MR COOPER SAID INCREASED ENFORCEMENT ACTION HAS NOW BEGUN FOLLOWING THE RECENT STRENGTHENING OF THE SUMMARY OFFENCES ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE FOR HIGHER LEVELS OF FINES AND TO ENABLE MORE EFFECTIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION TO BE TAKEN AGAINST MARINE LITTERING.
/THE MARINE .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
- 9 -
THE MARINE LITTERING PROBLEM WILL BE CLOSELY MONITORED VIA:
(A) REGULAR LIAISON WITH FERRY OPERATORS;
<B) REGULAR INSPECTION OF CLEANSING AND COLLECTION SERVICES AND CHECKS OF KNOWN BLACK SPOTS:
<C) HELICOPTER SURVEILLANCE FLIGHTS OVER THE HARBOUR AND COASTAL WATERS: AND
ID) A HOTLINE FOR PUBLIC COMPLAINTS.
"THE STEERING GROUP WILL CONSTANTLY REVIEW AND UPDATE THE ACTION PLAN AS APPROPRIATE," MR COOPER SAID.
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DISTRICT ENVIRONMENT STATEMENT FOR CENTRAL AND WESTERN t * * » »
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) TODAY (THURSDAY) PRESENTED THE YNNUAL UPDATE OF THE DISTRICT ENVIRONMENT STATEMENT FOR THI CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT AT THE MEETING OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD'S ENVIRONMENT AND WORKS COMMITTEE.
BRIEFING MEMBERS ON THE UPDATE OF THE STATEMENT. EPD’S SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICER, MRS SHIRLEY LI, SAID THE REPORT, ISSUED IN JUNE 1988, PROVIDED AN OVERVIEW OF POLLUTION PROBLEMS IN THE DISTRICT AND MEASURES BEING TAKEN TO ADDRESS THESE PROBLEMS.
TODAY’S BRIEFING WAS ON THE PROGRESS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME IN THE PAST YEAR.
MRS LI SAID IN 1988. THE EPD HOTLINE RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 212 POLLUTION COMPLAINTS FROM THE DISTRICT. OVER 70 PER CENT CONCERNED AIR POLLUTION. 20 PER CENT CONCERNED NOISE, AND THE REST CONCERNED WATER POLLUTION OR SOLID AND LIQUID WASTES DISPOSAL.
AIR POLLUTION PROBLEMS IN THE DISTRICT WERE ATTRIBUTED MAINLY TO SOME PERMANENT INSTALLATIONS INCLUDING THE KENNEDY TOWN INCINERATOR, THE KENNEDY TOWN ABATTOIR AND ITS ASSOCIATED FACILITIES -THE ANIMAL CREMATOR AND THE BY-PRODUCTS PLANT.
OTHER LOCAL SOURCES INCLUDED CHIMNEY EMISSIONS AND COMMERCIAL PREMISES AND SMOKE EMISSIONS FROM CONSTRUCTION SITES.
ON SHORT TERM IMPROVEMENT MEASURES, MRS INSTALLATION OF ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATORS TO REDUCE FROM THE KENNEDY TOWN INCINERATOR HAD BEEN COMPLETED.
FROM INDUSTRIAL
PILING WORK ON
LI SAID THE
DUST EMISSIONS
/THE I ONG
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1989
10 -
THE LONG TERM SOLUTION WOULD BE TO CLOSE THE FACILITY IN 1992 WHEN THE ISLAND EAST TRANSFER STATION COMMENCED OPERATION.
EXTENSIVE IMPROVEMENT MEASURES WOULD BE IMPLEMENTED AT THE KENNEDY TOWN ABATTOIR IN THE COMING YEAR. THESE INCLUDED IMPROVEMENTS TO THE DRAINAGE CONNECTIONS, INSTALLATION OF ADDITIONAL GREASE TRAPS AND ODOUR CONTROL MEASURES FOR THE BY-PRODUCTS PLANT. ACTIONS WERE IN HAND TO RELOCATE THE ANIMAL CREMATOR, SHE SAID.
ON NOISE PROBLEMS IN SCHOOLS, MRS LI SAID UNDER STAGE II OF THE SCHOOL NOISE ABATEMENT PROGRAMME, EPD HAD COMPLETED ON-SITE NOISE MEASUREMENT FOR 20 SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT.
A LIST OF THOSE ELIGIBLE FOR INSULATION TREATMENT BY 1990 WOULD BE SUBMITTED FOR FUNDING APPROVAL BY THE END OF THIS YEAR.
ON THE DISTRICT’S WATER POLLUTION PROBLEM, MRS LI SAID EPD HAD COMMISSIONED A CONSULTANCY STUDY IN AUGUST THIS YEAR TO DRAW UP THE CENTRAL, WESTERN AND WAN CHAI WEST SEWERAGE MASTERPLAN STUDY.
PACKAGES OF SEWERAGE IMPROVEMENT AND EXTENSION PROJECTS WOULD BE DEVELOPED TO CURB FURTHER DETERIORATION IN WATER QUALITY IN THE DISTRICT, SHE ADDED.
--------0 ---------
CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES FOR OCTOBER PUBLISHED
THE CPI(A> FOR OCTOBER 1989. AT 132.6. WAS 10.4 PER CENT HIGHER THAN THAT FOR OCTOBER 1988, ACCORDING TO THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES PUBLISHED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY).
HOWEVER, IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE BASE OF COMPARISON IN OCTOBER 1988 WAS RELATIVELY LOW.
COMPARED WITH A YEAR EARLIER, THE CPI(A) WAS HIGHER BY 10.3 PER CENT IN JULY. 9.9 PER (’ENT IN AUGUST AND 10.1 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER 1989.
WHILE THESE RATES OF INCREASE IN CONSUMER PRICES FLUCTUATED WITHIN A NARROW MARGIN OVER THE PAST FOUR MONTHS, THEY WERE BELOW THE CORRESPONDING RATE OF INCREASE OF 11.0 PER CENT RECORDED IN JUNE.
THE CPI(B) SHOWED LARGELY SIMILAR MOVEMENTS. IN OCTOBER 1989, IT WAS 132.1. REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 10.1 PER CENT OVER OCTOBER LAST YEAR.
THIS COMPARED WITH INCREASES OF 10,0 PER CENT TN JULY. 9.7 PER CENT TN AUGUST. AND 9.9 PER CENT IN SEPTEMBER 1989.
/COMPARING OCTOBER .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2J, '•989
11
COMPARING OCTOBER WITH SEPTEMBER 1989, THE CPI(Al SHOWED LITTLE CHANGE AND THE CPI(Bl INCREASED BY 0.1 PER CENT. CHARGES FOR MEALS IN RESTAURANTS AND OTHER EATING PLACES INCREASED. ON THE OTHER HAND, RETAIL PRICES OF FRESH VEGETABLES AND FRESH FRUIT DECREASED.
THE AVERAGE CPI(A) AND AVERAGE CPI(Bl FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 1989, AT 127.4 AND 127.1 RESPECTIVELY, WERE 9.8 PER CENT AND 9.5 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY HIGHER THAN THE AVERAGE FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 1988.
DURING THE THREE-MONTH PERIOD ENDED OCTOBER 1989, THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED CPI(A 1 AND CPI(B1 BOTH INCREASED AT AN AVERAGE RATE OF 0.7 PER CENT PER MONTH.
THE CPI(A) AND THE CPI(Bl ARE BASED ON THE EXPENDITURE PATTERNS OF 5(1 PER CENT AND 30 PER CENT, RESPECTIVELY, OF URBAN HOUSEHOLDS IN HONG KONG, WHICH WERE DERIVED FROM THE 1984/85 HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE SURVEY.
THE CPI(A) REFERS TO HOUSEHOLDS SPENDING BETWEEN 42,000 AND 46,499 A MONTH AT THAT TIME AND THE CPI(B1 BETWEEN 46,500 AND 49,999 A MONTH.
CHANGES IN THE INDEXES FOR OCTOBER 1989 IN RESPECT OF THE NINE COMMODITY/SERVICE SECTIONS IN THE TWO CONSUMER PRICE INDEXES, AS COMPARED WITH SEPTEMBER 1989 AND OCTOBER 1988, ARE GIVEN BELOW.
(OCTOBER 1984 TO SEPTEMBER 1985 AVERAGE = 1001 CPI(A) CPI(Bl
SECTION INDEX FOR OCT. 89 % CHANGE OVER SEP. 89 % CHANGE OVER OCT. 88 INDEX FOR OCT. 89 % CHANGE OVER SEP. 89 % CHANGE OVER OCT. 88
FOODSTUFFS 134.2 -0.6 + 11.9 135.5 -0.4 + 12.3
HOUSING 124.4 40.5 + 7.7 119.0 + 0.4 + 6.2
FUEL AND LIGHT 95.8 + 0,0* + 3.8 96.2 + 0.0* + 3.6
ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO (FOR HOME CONSUMPTION) 133.8 ♦ 0.1 + 7.4 135.0 + 0.2 + 7.6
CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR 135.7 + 0.5 + 9.8 138.7 + 0.5 + 10.1
PURABLE GOODS 122.4 + 0.2 + 2.4 121.6 + 0.2 + 2.4
MISCELLANEOUS GOODS 133.8 + 1.0 + 8.6 133.8 + 1.0 + 8.3
/TRANSPORT AND
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
12 -
TRANSPORT
AND VEHICLES 139.1 + 0.9 + 14.4 1 38.2 + 1 . 1 + 14.3
SERVICES 149.6 + 0. 3 + 13.5 149.0 + 0.3 + 13.2
ALL ITEMS 132.6 -0.0* + 10.4 132.1 + 0.1 + 10.1
* LESS THAN 0.05 PER CENT
THE INDEX FOR FOODSTUFFS DECREASED BY 0.6 PER CENT IN CPI(A) AND BY 0.4 PER CENT IN CPI<BI. THIS WAS MAINLY DUE TO DECREASES IN THE AVERAGE RETAIL PRICES OF FRESH VEGETABLES AND FRESH FRUIT, WHICH MORE THAN OFFSET THE INCREASE IN THE AVERAGE CHARGE FOR MEALS IN RESTAURANTS AND OTHER EATING PLACES.
THE INDEX FOR CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR INCREASED BY 0.5 PER CENT IN BOTH CPI(A) AND CPI(B) DUE TO HIGHER PRICES OF OUTERCLOTHING.
THE INDEX FOR MISCELLANEOUS GOODS INCREASED BY 1.0 PER CENT IN BOTH CPI(A) AND CPI(B) AS A RESULT OF HIGHER PRICES OF STATIONERY, JEWELLERY, TOILET REQUISITES AND COSMETICS.
THE INDEX FOR TRANSPORT AND VEHICLES INCREASED BY 0.9 PER CENT IN CPI(A) AND BY 1.1 PER CENT IN CPI(B) BECAUSE OF HIGHER SCHOOL BUS FARES AND PARKING FEES.
FIGURES HEREIN 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 1989. WHICH IS AVAILABLE AT S3.50 PER COPY FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE. GPO BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE. CENTRAL: OR FROM THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR. WANCHAI TOWER 1, 12 HARBOUR ROAD. WAN CHAI: OR FROM THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH. HONG KONG FOR LOCAL AND OVERSEAS MAILINGS.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE INDEXES CAN BE MADE TO THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 5-8235089.
THE HANG SENG CPI WAS 139.7 IN OCTOBER 1989, UP BY 0.6 PER CENT OVER SEPTEMBER 1989 AND UP BY 11.3 PER CENT OVER OCTOBER 1988.
THE HANG SENG CPI IS BASED ON THE EXPENDITURE PATTERN OF THE 10 PER CENT OF URBAN HOUSEHOLDS IN HONG KONG THAT SPENT SI 0.000-24,999 A MONTH DURING THE 1984/85 HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE SURVEY.
FURTHER DETAILS REGARDING THIS INDEX ARE INCLUDED IN THE HANG SENG CPI REPORT ISSUED BY THE ECONOMIC RESEARCH DEPARTMENT OF HANG SENG BANK LTD.
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/15........
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 23, 1989
- 15 -
COMPANIES (WINDING-UP)
(AMENDMENT) RULES 1989 TO BE GAZETTED
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) ANNOUNCED TWO AMENDMENTS THE COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) RULES OF THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE.
TO
"THE COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) (AMENDMENT) RULES 1989, WHICH WERE APPROVED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL YESTERDAY (WEDNESDAY), INTRODUCE TWO AMENDMENTS TO EXISTING PROVISIONS,” A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
"RULE 28(1) IS AMENDED TO ENABLE A PETITIONER TO APPLY FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF A PROVISIONAL LIQUIDATOR AFTER PRESENTATION OF THE WINDING-UP PETITION TO THE COURT," HE SAID.
THE PRESENT RULE PROVIDES FOR AN APPLICATION BY A CREDITOR, CONTRIBUTORY, OR BY THE COMPANY ITSELF.
"THE PURPOSE OF THE AMENDMENT IS TO GIVE THE RELEVANT REGULATORY AUTHORITIES AN EXPRESS RIGHT TO PETITION FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF A PROVISIONAL LIQUIDATOR IN APPROPRIATE CIRCUMSTANCES," THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT.
AT PRESENT, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE INSURANCE AUTHORITY, THI SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION AND THE COMMISSIONER OF BANKING ALL HAVE POWERS TO PRESENT WINDING-UP PETITIONS UNDER THEIR RESPECTIVE ORDINANCES.
"AN1 SUCH PETITIONS ARE FREQUENTLY FOLLOWED BY APPLICATIONS FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF A PROVISIONAL LIQUIDATOR IN ORDER TO SAFEGUARD THE ASSETS OF THE COMPANY AND TO PRESERVE THE BOOKS AND FINANCIAL RECORDS. AND IT IS APPROPRIATE THAT THE RELEVANT AUTHORITY IN HIS CAPACITY AS PETITIONER SHOULD BE ABLE TO MAKE THE APPLICATION," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
RULES 93(1> IS AMENDED TO MAKE IT CONSISTENT WITH SECTION 217 OF THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE, WHICH PROVIDES THAT CREDITORS WHO DO NOT PROVE THEIR DEBT OR LA IM ON OR BEFORE THE DATE FIXED BY RULE (931(1) ARE EXCLUDED FROM THE BENEFIT OF THE DISTRIBUTION MADE NEXT AFTER THE DATE AND FROM THE BENEFIT OF ANY PREVIOUS DISTRIBUTION," HE SAID.
UNDER THE EXISTING RULE. CREDITORS WHO FAIL TO PROVE WITHIN THE TIME-LIMIT ARE EXCLUDED FROM THE NEXT DISTRIBUTION, BUT NOT FROM PREVIOUS DISTRIBUTIONS.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THE RULES WOULD RE GAZETTED TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AND WOULD COME INTO EFFECT ON THE SAME DAY.
0 -
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1989
$14 MILLION FOR IMPROVING REHABILITATION SERVICES *****
THE REHABILITATION DEVELOPMENT COORDINATING COMMITTEE (RDCC) HAS ENDORSED A PROPOSAL ON THE ALLOCATION OF RESOURCES FOR MAJOR AND MINOR IMPROVEMENTS TO REHABILITATION SERVICES FOR 1990-91.
THE COMMISSIONER FOR REHABILITATION, MR ALAN WONG, SAID AT A RDCC MEETING TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT A TOTAL OF $14 MILLION HAD BEEN MADE AVAILABLE FOR THE IMPROVEMENTS.
HE SAID TWO MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS HAD BEEN SCHEDULED FOR NEXT FINANCIAL YEAR. OVER 94.8 MILLION WOULD BE USED FOR THE PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL TEACHERS FOR SPECIAL SCHOOLS, AND A SIMILAR AMOUNT WOULD GO TOWARDS EXTENDING THE STANDARD COSTS APPLICABLE TO SPECIAL CHILD CARE CENTRES AND RESIDENTIAL SPECIAL CHILD CARE CENTRES.
"IN ADDITION, THE GOVERNMENT ALSO ALLOCATED $1.7 MILLION AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND EDUCATION DEPARTMENT CONTRIBUTED A TOTAL OF $1.6 MILLION FROM THEIR SAVINGS, TOWARDS MINOR IMPROVEMENT PORJECTS FOR 1990-91," HE SAID.
MR WONG SAID ONE MINOR IMPROVEMENT WAS TO IMPLEMENT A NEW RATE OF INCENTIVE PAYMENT TO SHELTERED WORKSHOP WORKERS. FUNDS HAD BEEN BUDGETTED FOR THE PAY ADJUSTMENT TO TAKE EFFECT FROM LAST MONTH.
OTHER IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDED ESTABLISHING A SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT UNIT AND EXPANDING THE REHABUS NETWORK.
MR WONG SAID A SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT MODEL WAS INTRODUCED LAST YEAR TO COMPLEMENT THE EXISTING OPEN AND SHELTERED EMPLOYMENT FOR THE DISABLED.
IT WAS AIMED PARTICULARLY AT HELPING THOSE DISABLED PERSONS WHO WERE MORE PRODUCTIVE THAN SHELTERED WORKERS BUT WHO OTHERWISE COULD NOT COMPETE FOR OPEN EMPLOYMENT WITHOUT ON-GOING SUPPORT.
"A TWO-YEAR PILOT SCHEME WILL BE IMPLEMENTED WITH A MOBILE CREW COMPRISING 12 MODERATELY MENTALLY HANDICAPPED MEMBERS TO TAKE UP CONTRACTED CLEANSING TASKS AFTER UNDERGOING A ONE-YEAR TRAINING COURSE.
"IT IS CONSIDERED THE SCHEME WILL BE OF GREAT IMPORTANCE IN BROADENING THE EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS OF THE DISABLED AND IN REDUCING THE RELIANCE OF THE MORE PRODUCTIVE DISABLED PERSONS ON SHELTERED EMPLOYMENT." HE SAID.
MR WONG TOLD THE RDCC MEMBERS THAT IF THE SCHEME WAS FOUND TO BE SUCCESSFUL. CONSIDERATION WOULD BE GIVEN TO EXTENDING IT TO OTHER TYPES OF SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT MODELS, FOR THE BENEFIT OF VARIOUS
DISABILITY GROUPS.
ON THE REHABUS NETWORK, MR WONG SAID THAT AS TRANSPORT WAS AN ESSENTIAL SERVICE IN FACILITATING THE INTEGRATION OF THE DISABLED IN EMPLOYMENT. EDUCATION OR OTHER. MATTERS. IT WAS NECESSARY TO FINANCE FOUR NEW ROUTES TO BE OPENED IN 1990-91, TO SERVE SHA T1N-TSUEN WAN; SHEUNG SHUTZFANLING-TAI PO; KWUN TONG-SHAM SHUT PO: AND WONG TAI SIN-TS1M SHA TSUI.
- 0 -
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1989
15
REHABILITATION CAMPAIGN TO BE LAUNCHED EARLY NEXT MONTH t * * » * *
A TERRITORY-WIDE CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE REHABILITATION SERVICES IN HONG KONG WILL BE LAUNCHED EARLY NEXT MONTH.
SPEAKING AT A MEETING OF THE REHABILITATION DEVELOPMENT CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE (RDCC) TODAY (THURSDAY), THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR KWOK KA-CHI, SAID THE OBJECTIVE OF THE "IN TOUCH WITH REHABILITATION" CAMPAIGN IS FOUR-FOLD.
IT AIMS TO:
* ENHANCE PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE AND UNDERSTANDING OF DISABLED PEOPLE AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE COMMUNITY;
* AROUSE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE POTENTIAL ABILITIES OF DISABLED PEOPLE:
* HELP DISABLED PEOPLE REALISE THEIR OWN DISABILITIES AND POTENTIAL: AND
* PUBLICISE REHABILITATION SERVICES AND THE AGENCIES PROVIDING THE SERVICES.
MR KWOK NOTED THAT THE CAMPAIGN, WHICH WILL OFFICIALLY BEGIN ON DECEMBER 2, OFFERS A WIDE RANGING PROGRAMME.
"THERE WILL BE A PROJECT CONTEST FOR YOUTH TEAMS, A DESIGN AWARD SCHEME FOR THE MOST ACCESSIBLE BUILDING FOR THE DISABLED IN HONG KONG AND A SERIES OF DI STRICT-WIDE ACTIVITIES FOR THE DISABLED," HE SAID.
"THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE CAMPAIGN IS A THREE-DAY EXHIBITION ON REHABILITATION SERVICES TO BE HELD AT THE NEW WORLD PLAZA. TSIM SHA TSUI, STARTING DECEMBER 2.
"IT WILL INTRODUCE VARIOUS ASPECTS OF REHABILITATION SERVICES WITH THE AID OF OVER 130 DISPLAY BOARDS.
"THERE WILL ALSO BE DISPLAYS OF APPLIANCES, TOOLS AND
EQUIPMENT USED BY DISABLED PERSONS," MR KWOK SAID.
THE CAMPAIGN IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE. THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
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/16 .......
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 23, 1989
16
EXPANSION IN CHILD CARE SERVICES * * * ♦ *
CHILD CARE SERVICES HAV. EXPANDED GREATLY IN THE LAST DECADE TO COPE WITH THE NEEDS OF CORE FAMILIES, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY!.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF A NURSERY OF THE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION, MRS WONG SAID ONLY 10,000 CHILD CARE CENTRE PLACES WERE AVAILABLE 10 YEARS AGO.
"TODAY, THERE ARE A TOTAL OF 30,000 PLACES IN VARIOUS CHILD CARE CENTRES, OF WHICH 18,000 ARE GOVERNMENT SUBVENTED DAY CARE PLACES,” SHE SAID.
MRS WONG SAID IN ADDITION TO THE INTRODUCTION OF THE CHILD CARE CENTRES ORDINANCE AND REGULATIONS IN 197b THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT ALSO SET UP A CHILD CARE CENTRE ADVISORY INSPECTORATE TO ENSURE THAT OPERATIONAL STANDARDS IN CHILD CARE CENTRES WERE MET.
’TO IMPROVE CHILD CARE SERVICES, AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE JOINTLY PUBLISHED A CURRICULUM GUIDE FOR DAY CARE CENTRES LAST YEAR,” SHE SAID.
"THIS GUIDE PROVIDES A REFERENCE FOR CHILD CARE WORKERS ON THE DEVELOPMENT NEEDS AND TRAINING METHODS OF CHILDREN AGED BETWEEN TWO AND SIX,” SHE ADDED.
MRS WONG ALSO COMMENDED THE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION FOR ITS DEVOTION TN CHILD CARE SERVICES. THE ASSOCIATION IS NOW PLANNING ITS FOURTH NURSERY IN EASTERN DISTRICT OF HONG KONG.
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HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAMME FOR KWUN TONG ELDERLY
* * t » t
A HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAMME FOR THE ELDERLY WILL BE HELD IN KWUN TONG ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25) TO AROUSE ELDERLY PEOPLE’S AWARENESS OF HEALTH CARE AND THE PUBLIC’S CONCERN FOR THE ELDERLY.
IT WILL BE HELD AT THE OPEN SQUARE AND THE COMMUNITY HALL OF TELFORD GARDENS IN KOWLOON BAY BETWEEN 9.30 AM AND 4 PM.
THE REGIONAL OFFICER (EAST KOWLOON) OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, MR LOK MAN-PAN, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE PROGRAMME’S OPENING.
THERE WILL BE TALKS ON HEALTH AND NUTRITION, FILM SHOWS, AND PERFORMANCES BY ELDERLY PEOPLE INCLUDING A DRAMA, FASHION SHOW, SINGING AND DEMONSTRATIONS ON RELAXATION EXERCISES.
/THERE WILL........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1989
- 17 -
THERE WILL ALSO BE FREE MEDICAL CHECKS ON EYES, TEETH, PRESSURE AND BLOOD SUGAR FOR ELDERLY RESIDENTS OF THE DISTIRCT.
BLOOD
THE FUNCTION IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE ELDERLY SERVICE JOINT FUNCTION COMMITTEE AND KWUN
KWUN TONG DISTRICT TONG DISTRICT BOARD.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO SEND REPRESENTATIVES TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE EVENT TO BE HELD AT NOON ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25) AT THE OPEN SQUARE AND THE COMMUNITY HALL OF TELFORD GARDENS IN KOWLOON BAY.
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SHA SEES DEVELOPMENTS ON LANTAU t t * * ♦
THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR DONALD LIAO, VISITED TAI O AND NGONG PING ON LANTAU ISLAND TODAY (THURSDAY) TO SEE THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS THERE AND TO BID FAREWELL TO LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES BEFORE HIS RETIREMENT.
MR LIAO WAS ACCOMPANIED BY MRS LIAO; THE REGIONAL FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR ADOLF HSU: PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT MRS AGNES ALLCOCK; ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM AND DISTRICT OFFICER, MR KIM SALKELD.
SECRETARY SECRETARY, WAI-KEUNG;
THE PARTY FIRST FLEW TO TAI O AND WAS GREETED BY THE RURAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR YU YUEN-HEI.
MR LIAO TOURED THE PROPOSED SHELTERED ANCHORAGE SITE FOR FISHING VESSELS WHICH IS SCHEDULED TO BE COMPLETED IN THF MID-1990'S.
THEN HE WENT TO THE ROOFTOP OF A BUILDING FOR A PANORAMIC VIEW OF THE AREA.
MR LIAO WAS TOLD ABOUT THE PACKAGE OF DEVELOPMENTS, INCLUDING THE CONSTRUCTION OF LUNG TIN HOUSING ESTATE PHASE II, DREDGING OF THE TAI O CREEK, BUILDING OF BASIC INFRASTRUCTURE LIKE ROADS, DRAINAGE AND SEWAGE TREATMENT FACILITIES, AND A FOOTBRIDGE ACROSS THE CREEK. THE COST WILL AMOUNT TO A TOTAL OF ABOUT $160 MILLION.
MR LIAO AND HIS PARTY VISITED THE TAI O LUNG TIN HOME WHICH WAS OPENED IN MARCH THIS YEAR TO ACCOMMODATE 40 PEOPLE WHO ARE AGED 60 OK OVER. THE HOME IS MANAGED BY CARITAS AND FINANCED BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
/THE SECRETARY .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2J, 19^9
- 18 -
THE SECRETARY ALSO VISITED THE LUNG TIN HOUSING ESTATE PHASE I, WHICH WAS COMPLETED IN 1980 AND ACCOMMODATES ABOUT 1,320 PEOPLE.
AT NGONG PING, MR LIAO VISITED THE PO LIN MONASTERY AND THE BIG BUDDHA STATUE, AND WAS BRIEFED ON RELATED DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS.
HE WAS TOLD THAT THE BRONZE STATUE, 33.95 METRES HIGH AND WEIGHING 250 TONS, HAD COST ABOUT $68 MILLION TO BUILD.
AN ACTIVITY CENTRE, WITH A CONVENTION HALL, GUEST ROOMS AND QUARTERS FOR BUDDHIST SCHOLARS, WOULD ALSO BE BUILT.
MR LIAO ALSO LEARNT THAT, IN ORDER TO COPE WITH THE EXPECTED INCREASE IN DEMAND FOR VEHICULAR ACCESS TO THE STATUE, THE THREE-KILOMETRE NGONG PING ACCESS ROAD WOULD BE IMPROVED TO PROVIDE FOR TWO-WAY TRAFFIC. FACILITIES SUCH AS A PUBLIC CARPARK AND A LARGER BUS TERMINAL WOULD ALSO BE CONSTRUCTED.
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SOUTHERN DISTRICT AFFAIRS SYMPOSIUM ON SATURDAY
SOUTHERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS WILL BE ABLE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THEIR OWN COMMUNITY AT A "DISTRICT AFFAIRS SYMPOSIUM" TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25) EVENING.
THE SYMPOSIUM. WHICH FORMS THE FINAL PART OF THE "SOUTHERN DISTRICT IN PERSPECTIVE" CASE STUDY CONTEST. WILL BEGIN AT 7.30 PM AT THE LEI TUNG COMMUNITY HALL TN LEI TUNG ESTATE. ALL RESIDENTS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND.
IN THE FIRST PART OF THE CONTEST, WHICH HAS BEEN COMPLETED, CONTESTANTS CARRIED OUT IN-DEPTH RESEARCH OF A LOCAL ISSUE. IN THE SECOND PART. THEY WILL MAKE A SLIDE PRESENTATION ON TIIF I R FINDINGS AT SATURDAY’S SYMPOSIUM.
THERE WILL BE A TOTAL OF SIX SLIDE PRESENTATIONS, EACH LASTING ABOUT 15 MINUTES.
THE TOPICS ARE: ENVIRONMENT OF THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT; TIN WAN REDEVELOPMENT SCHEME; A DISAPPEARING TRADE: PIG-REARING; A BEAUTIFICATION SCHEME IN TAI WAN NEW VILLAGE; LOCAL YOUTHS’ VIEWS ON YOUTH AND COMMUNITY CENTRES: AND DEVELOPMENTS IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT.
THREE WINNERS WILL BE CHOSEN. AND EACH WILL RECEIVE A TROPHY.
ADJUDICATORS FOR THE FINAL PART ARE A HOST OF RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG'S TELEVISION PROGRAMME "TODAY IN LEGCO", MR Y.C. CHAN; SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR HUI YUNG-CHUNG; AND ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER. MR DAVID LEUNG.
/THE CONTEST........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER ?3, 1989
19 -
THE CONTEST HAS BEEN ORGANISED IN SUPPORT OF THE CURRENT SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL BY THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION WITH ASSISTANCE OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SYMPOSIUM WHICH WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25) AT THE LEI TUNG COMMUNITY HALL, LEI TUNG ESTATE, BEGINNING AT 7.30 PM.
-----0------
GYMNASTIC SHOW TO END DISTRICT FESTIVAL
*****
THE 1989 WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL CLOSE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26) WITH A RHYTHMIC GYMNASTIC SHOW.
TWO TEAMS FROM GUANGDONG WILL PERFORM IN THE SHOW, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM. AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL.
THE GUANGDONG TEAMS WILL COMPRISE MORE THAN 16 MEMBERS, ALL OF WHOM RANK HIGH IN RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS ON THE MAINLAND.
A FESTIVAL CLOSING CEREMONY WILL BE HELD PRIOR TO THE SHOW.
OFFICIATING AT THIS WILL BE THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, DR MICHAEL LEE: DISTRICT OFFICER, MR BRIAN LAU: URBAN COUNCILLOR, MR FUNG KWONG-CHUNG: CHAIRMAN OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL. MR YEUNG CHIU-MING: VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS COUNCIL. MR CHAN CHUN-FAT: AND VICE CHAIRMAN OF S1K SIK YUEN. MR LI YUEN-BING.
EARLIER. ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON. THE TWO GUANGDONG TEAMS WILL ALSO PERFORM AT ANOTHER RYHTHMIC GYMNASTIC SHOW. AT THE SAME VENUE. THIS SHOW WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.
FREE ADMISSION TICKETS FOR BOTH SHOWS ARE STILL AVAILABLE AT THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT OFFICE AND SUB-OFFICE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE GYMNASTIC SHOWS OF THE 1989 WONG AT 2 PM AND 8 PM RESPECTIVELY ON HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL.
INVITED TO COVER THE TWO RYHTHMIC TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL, BEGINNING SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26) AT THE CHOI
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/20........
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 23, 1989
- 20 -
YAU TSIM CARNIVAL TO ENHANCE COMMUNITY SPIRIT ♦ * » * t
A CARNIVAL DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS WILL BE HELD IN YAU TSIM DISTRICT ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26).
ORGANISED BY THE YAU MA TEI EAST AREA COMMITTEE WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD, THE CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD AT THE PLAYGROUND OF THE HENRY G. LEONG YAU MA TEI COMMUNITY CENTRE AT 60 PUBLIC SQUARE STREET.
SCHOOLS AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES WILL OPERATE 10 GAMES STALLS AND PRESENT A VARIETY SHOW FEATURING CHINESE MUSIC. CANTONESE OPERATIC SONGS, POPULAR SONGS AND DANCES.
THE THEME OF THE CARNIVAL WILL BE EXPOUNDED IN THE GAMES AND IN SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO BE DISTRIBUTED AT THE VENUE.
APART FROM INTRODUCING THE WORK OF THE COMMITTEE, THE SUPPLEMENT WILL CONTAIN A PAPER ON WHICH RESIDENTS CAN EXPRESS IDEAS ABOUT THE FACILITIES AND ADMINISTRATION OF THEIR DISTRICT.
THE VARIETY SHOW AND GAMES WILL START AT 2.30 PM. FOLLOWING AN OPENING CEREMONY AND PERFORMANCES BY A MARCHING BAND.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 1.45 PM WILL BE DISTRICT OFFICER. MR WONG HON-HO; POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER FOR YAU MA TEI. MR LAU YUK-KUEN; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT BOARD'S COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE. MR NG KIN-SUN.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARF INVITED TO COVER THE YAU MA TEI EAST AREA CARNIVAL WHICH WILL BE HELD AT THE HENRY G. LEONG YAU MA TEI COMMUNITY CENTRE AT 60 PUBLIC SQUARE STREET ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26), BEGINNING AT 1.15 PM.
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MORE DISTRICT FESTIVAL EVENTS FOR KWUN TONG RESIDENTS ♦ t ♦ t ♦
A NUMBER OF CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL EVENTS WILL BE HELD IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF KWUN TONG IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS AS PART OF THE CURRENT KWUN TONG FESTIVAL '89.
THERE WILL BE A DINNER FOR ABOUT 500 ELDERLY PEOPLE AT A RESTAURANT IN LAM TIN TOMORROW (FRIDAY) DURING WHICH THEY WILL BE TREATED TO A CANTONESE OPERA.
/ON SUNDAY
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26) MORNING, A NUMBER OF WELL-KNOWN MOVIES WILL BE SHOWN AT THREE LOCAL CINEMAS AT DISCOUNTED PRICES.
A PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION AND A CHILDREN’S PAINTINGS EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD AT THE TELFORD GARDEN PLAZA, BEGINNING AT 10 AM THE SAME MORNING. ADMISSION IS FREE.
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DB COMMITTEE TO BE BRIEFED ON ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
MEMBERS OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL AND TRANSPORT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE WILL BE BRIEFED ON THE PROGRESS OF SEVERAL MAJOR ROAD IMPROVEMENT WORKS AT A MEETING TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AFTERNOON.
THESE INCLUDE PROJECTS AT THE JUNCTION OF TAI HO ROAD AND SHA TSUI ROAD. TEXACO ROAD AND KWAN MUN HAU STREET.
A REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL PRESENT A REPORT ON THE ANALYSIS OF ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT STATISTICS BY DISTRICT BOARD AREAS LAST YEAR.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE PROGRESS REPORTS BY WORKING GROUPS. AND APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDS FOR ORGANISING THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN, THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN AND KEEP YOUR HOME SAFE CAMPAIGNS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL AND TRANSPORT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE TOMORROW (FRIDAY) IN THE MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL. SECOND FLOOR, TSUEN WAN STATIOM MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, TSUEN WAN.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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/2?
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 23. 1989
MEASURES TO STAMP OUT MALPRACTICES AT TAI PO FISH MARKET
*****
THE FISH MARKETING ORGANISATION (FMO)’S STRINGENT MEASURES TO STAMP OUT MALPRACTICES IN FISH MARKETING ACTIVITIES WILL SOON BE EXTENDED TO THE TAI PO WHOLESALE FISH MARKET.
WITH EFFECT FROM DECEMBER 1, THE TAI PO FISH MARKET AUTHORITIES, BACKED UP BY THE POLICE, WILL STRICTLY FORBID THE LABELLING OF FISH BEFORE TRANSACTION.
"THE MOVE AIMS TO IMPROVE MARKET ORDER, PREVENT MANIPULATION OF THE FISH PRICES AND TO ENSURE THAT FISH BUYERS COULD TAKE PART IN A FAIR TRANSACTION OF THE FISH CATCH," THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (FISHERIES) OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT. DR CHRISTOPHER LEE. EXPLAINED TODAY (THURSDAY).
ACCESS TO THE SORTING FLOOR OF THE TAI PO FISH MARKET HAD BEEN STRICTLY RESTRICTED TO FISHERMEN, THEIR AGENTS AND EMPLOYEES WHO WERE ISSUED WITH PERMITS. FISH BUYERS WERE NOT ALLOWED TO GO IN. HE SAID.
THE MEASURE WAS DESIGNED TO STAMP OUT THE INFILTRATION OF TRIAD ELEMENTS ON THE SORTING FLOOR, RESULTING IN GOOD-QUALITY FISH BEING PRE-SELECTED. MARKED AND MANIPULATED THROUGH THE SALE PROCESS, HE ADDED.
DR LEE NOTED THAT SIMILAR STRINGENT MARKETING CONTROLS WERE ALREADY IN FORCE IN THE FMO'S CHEUNG SHA WAN. ABERDEEN AND SHAU KEI WAN WHOLESALE FISH MARKETS AND THE RESULTS HAD BEEN VERY ENCOURAGING.
"IN THE SHAU KEI WAN FISH MARKET. THE AVERAGE PRICE OF FISH FETCHED AT AUCTIONS HAS GONE UP BY 50 PER CENT AND THE VOLUME OF FISH TRADED HAS ALSO INCREASED SINCE THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NEW CONTROL MEASURES.
"THIS SHOWS THAT THE MEASURES ARE EFFECTIVE IN ENSURING A FAIR PRICE FOR THE FISH." HE CONTINUED.
SIMILAR CONTROLS WERE UNDER CONSIDERATION FOR INTRODUCTION AT THE CASTLE PEAK WHOLESALE FISH MARKET EARLY NEXT YEAR. HF, ADDED.
THE TAI PO FISH MARKET. WHICH HOLDS TWO TRADING SESSIONS EVERY MORNING. USUALLY ATTRACTS SOME 70 BUYERS AND ABOUT 12 TONNES OF FISH ARE TRADED DAILY.
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Z?5
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 23, 1989
PRECAUTIONS IN ASBESTOS WORK URGED ♦ * t t ♦
BUILDING CONTRACTORS AND WORKERS ARE REMINDED TO TAKE ADEQUATE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN HANDLING OR WORKING WITH MATERIALS CONTAINING ASBESTOS.
“IT IS IMPORTANT FOR BOTH CONTRACTORS AND WORKERS TO COMPLY STRICTLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS UNDER THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (ASBESTOS) SPECIAL REGULATIONS TO AVOID HEALTH RISKS ARISING FROM ASBESTOS DUST AND WASTE," THE CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, MR YIP YUK-LUN, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
"THE CONTRACTORS MUST NOTIFY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT IN WRITING NOT LESS THAN 28 DAYS BEFORE ENGAGING IN A WORK PROCESS INVOLVING ANY MATERIAL COMPOSED WHOLLY OR PARTLY OF ASBESTOS," MR YIP SAID.
"DURING THE WORK PROCESS. THE CONTRACTOR SHOULD USE APPROPRIATE EQUIPMENT TO MINIMISE THE RELEASE OF ASBESTOS DUST INTO THE WORK ATMOSPHERE, OR PROVIDE EVERY WORKER ENGAGED IN THE WORK WITH PROPER RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.
"IT IS THE DUTY OF THE CONTRACTOR TO ENSURE THAT THE PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING ARE USED BY THOSE WHO MAY BE AFFECTED BY ASBESTOS DUST ON SITE.
"HE MUST ALSO ENSURE THAT ALL WORKERS EMPLOYED IN ASBESTOS PROCESS HAVE BEEN CERTIFIED TO BE FIT TO DO SUCH WORK BY A REGISTERED MEDICAL PRACTITIONER. YOUNG PERSONS UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE SHOULD IN NO CIRCUMSTANCES BE EMPLOYED."
CONTRACTORS WHO BREACH THESE PROVISIONS ARE LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $30,000.
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS PRODUCED TWO PUBLICATIONS ON THIS SUBJECT: "GUIDE TO THE FACTORIES AND INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS (ASBESTOS) SPECIAL REGULATIONS" AND "CONTROL OF ASBESTOS AT WORK -CODE OF PRACTICE."
THEY MAY BE OBTAINED FREE FROM THE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ON THE 13TH FLOOR OF HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD. CENTRAL.
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EXHIBITION ON EMPLOYMENT SERVICES FOR PROFESSIONALS
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD AN EXHIBITION ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25) TO FAMILIARISE POST-SECONDARY GRADUATES WITH THE WIDE-RANGING SERVICES PROVIDED BY ITS HIGHER EDUCATION EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (HEES).
THE THREE-DAY EXHIBITION WILL ALSO BE OF INTEREST TO EMPLOYERS LOOKING FOR PROFESSIONAL STAFF.
/IT WILL
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
24
IT WILL BE HELD AT THE LEVEL ONE EXHIBITION AREA OF THE NEW WORLD CENTRE IN TSIM SHA TSUI. OPENING HOURS ARE FROM 11 AM TO 7 PM DAILY.
IN SIMPLE LANGUAGE AND ATTRACTIVE GRAPHICS, THE EXHIBITION WILL TELL VISITORS THAT APART FROM JOB PLACEMENT SERVICES, THE HEES ALSO PROVIDES COUNSELLING FOR POST-SECONDARY GRADUATES ON THE CURRENT MARKET SITUATION AND JOB-HUNTING SKILLS.
IN ADDITION, CAREERS SEMINARS ARE ORGANISED EVERY YEAR ON THE LATEST EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES.
THE SERVICE HAS BEEN FOUND MOST USEFUL BY HONG KONG STUDENTS STUDYING OVERSEAS WHO WISH TO RETURN AND WORK IN THE TERRITORY.
TO EXPEDITE PROCESSING OF JOB APPLICATIONS, THE HEES NOW USES A COMPUTER TO REGISTER THE PERSONAL PARTICULARS OF JOB-SEEKERS AND TO MATCH THEM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE VACANCIES ON HAND.
THE COMPUTER IS ALSO USED TO PUBLISH A ’’CANDIDATE PROFILE” WHICH CONTAINS ESSENTIAL PARTICULARS OF SELECTED REGISTRANTS FOR DISTRIBUTION TO SOME 1.000 EMPLOYERS EVERY MONTH.
ANOTHER MONTHLY PUBLICATION CALLED THE "PRIME JOBS IN HONG KONG” IS SENT TO ABOUT 630 UNIVERSITIES, TERTIARY INSTITUTES AND STUDENT BODIES IN VARIOUS PARTS OF THE WORLD.
FOR FURTHER ENQUIRIES. EMPLOYERS AND GRADUATES MAY CALL THE HEES ON TEL. 5-8523232 OR 5-8523233.
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TSZ WAN SHAN EMPLOYMENT OFFICE CLOSES ♦ * ♦ ♦ ♦
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT HAS CLOSED DOWN ITS LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE OFFICE IN TSZ WAN SHAN FROM TODAY (THURSDAY) IN AN EFFORT TO IMPROVE COST-EFFECTIVENESS.
THE OFFICE HAD PROVIDED FREE ASSISTANCE TO EMPLOYERS IN RECRUITING STAFF AND TO JOB-SEEKERS FINDING EMPLOYMENT IN TSZ WAN SHAN. DIAMOND HILL. CHUK YUEN AND UPPER WONG TAI SIN AREAS.
THESE SERVICES WILL NOW BE AVAILABLE AT THE NEARBY SAN PO KONG EMPLOYMENT OFFICE AT PARIS THEATRE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, 7 KING FUK STREET. TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 3-265121-4.
THE LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE WILL NOW BE OPERATING 15 BRANCH OFFICES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY. THEY ARE ALL LINKED BY A FACSIMILE NETWORK.
0--------
/?5........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1989
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SUPERMARKET FINED FOR IMPROPER LABELLING
* t ♦ » *
THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH TODAY (THURSDAY) REMINDED FOOD MANUFACTURERS, WHOLESALERS AND RETAILERS NOT TO SELL PREPACKAGED FOOD WHICH BEARS NO PROPER LABELLING. OR ELSE THEY WILL BE LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF 825,000 AND SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT.
PROPER LABELLING OF PREPACKAGED FOOD IS REQUIRED UNDER THE THIRD SCHEDULE OF THE FOOD AND DRUGS (COMPOSITION AND LABELLING) REGULATIONS (CHAPTER 132).
THE REMINDER FOLLOWS A RECENT CASE IN SOUTH KOWLOON MAGISTRACY IN WHICH A SUPERMARKET IN TSIM SHA TSUI WAS FINED A TOTAL OF 115,000 FOR SELLING THREE TYPES OF PREPACKAGED FOOD WHICH HAD NOT BEEN MARKED OR LABELLED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RELEVANT REQUIREMENTS.
THE FOOD ITEMS -- NAMELY CANNED FRANKFURT SAUSAGES, CANNED TUNA FISH PATE AND ASPIC JELLY — HAD NOT BEEN LABELLED IN EITHER ENGLISH OR CHINESE. OR IN BOTH LANGUAGES, WITH THE NAME OR DESIGNATION OF THE FOOD; A LIST OF INGREDIENTS; NAME AND ADDRESS OF MANUFACTURER OR PACKER OF THE FOOD.
IN ADDITION. THE ASPIC JELLY HAD NOT BEEN MARKED OR LABELLED WITH SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR STORAGE OR INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE.
THE FOOD ITEMS, FOUND LABELLED IN FRENCH ONLY. WERE DISPLAYED IN THE SUPERMARKET FOR SALE. THUS THE SUPERMARKET WAS PROSECUTED UNDER REGULATIONS 4A(1) AND 5(1) OF THE FOOD AND DRUGS (COMPOSITION AND LABELLING) REGULATIONS UNDER SECTION 55 OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND MUNICIPAL SERVICES ORDINANCE.
THE SUPERMARKET WAS ALSO ORDERED TO PAY THE SAMPLE COST OF $57.10.
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MORE THAN 3.000 MEMBERS ATTEND CYC ANNUAL PARADE
» ♦ t ♦
MORE THAN 3,000 MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB (CYC) OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ATTENDED THE NINTH ANNUAL PARADE OF THEIR CLUB AT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM. WAN CHAI, THIS (THURSDAY) AFTERNOON.
ADDRESSING THE GATHERING. THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, MR Y.T. LI, SAID THE SUCCESS OF THE CYC SCHEME DEPENDED ON THE SUPPORT OF THE SCHOOLS, MEMBERS OF THE CYC AND THE PUBLIC.
/HE COMMENDED........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1989
- 26 -
HE COMMENDED THE CYC MEMBERS FOR THEIR ALL-OUT EFFORTS IN ORGANISING THE CIVIC EDUCATION FORTNIGHT IN 19 DISTRICTS TO PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION IN THE COMMUNITY AND THE COUNTRY PARK ADOPTION SCHEME TO KEEP THE COUNTRYSIDE GREEN LAST YEAR.
MR LI PAID TRIBUTE TO ALL THOSE WHO HAD CONTRIBUTED TO THE CYC MOVEMENT BEFORE TAKING THE SALUTE AT THE PARADE.
AS A TOKEN OF APPRECIATION, HE PRESENTED SILVER MEDALS TO MR WALTER SULKE, A VETERAN OF THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN, MRS RUBY LAU, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (FURTHER), AND MRS LINA LO, HEAD OF THE EDUCATION TELEVISION DIVISION OF RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG FOR THEIR VALUABLE SERVICES TO THE CYC SCHEME IN THE PAST YEARS.
SIXTEEN SCHOOL HEADS AND TEACHERS WERE ALSO PRESENTED HONORARY BRONZE MEDALS FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO CYC ACTIVITIES.
IN ADDITION, A GROUP OF ABOUT 310 CYC MEMBERS FROM VARIOUS PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS WERE AWARDED CYC PURPLE BADGES UNDER THE MERIT AWARD SCHEME FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY SERVICES.
DURING THE EVENT, THERE WERE ALSO A CHINESE DANCE, A PLAY, A BAND MARCH, CHOIR SINGING, AND AN ORCHESTRA PERFORMANCE BY ABOUT 300 CYC MEMBERS.
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BOE MEMBERS VISIT FIELD STUDIES CENTRE
*****
THE CHAIRMAN AND FOUR MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION (BOE) TODAY (THURSDAY) VISITED THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S FIELD STUDIES CENTRE IN TUI MIN HO, SAI KUNG TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE OPERATION OF THE TEACHING AND RESOURCE CENTRE FOR ECOLOGICAL AND GEOGRAPHICAL FIELD STUDIES.
THEY WERE BOE CHAIRMAN, MRS RITA FAN, AND MEMBERS MR CHAN YING-LUN, MS SANSAN CHING, MRS MINNIE LAI AND MRS NANCY YUNG.
ACCOMPANYING THEM ON THE VISIT WERE THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (CHIEF INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS), MR WONG SIK-WAH: THE PRINCIPAL INSPECTOR (GEOGRAPHY, SOCIAL STUDIES AND HEALTH EDUCATION) OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, MS SANDRA LAU; AND THE BOE SECRETARY, SENIOR EDUCATION OFFICER MR LAU KWONG-MO.
DURING THEIR TOUR. THE VISITORS NOTED THAT THE CENTRE, WHICH IS LOCATED IN THE SAI KUNG OUTDOOR RECREATION CENTRE, WAS INTENDED TO PROMOTE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE ENVIRONMENT THROUGH EDUCATION AND INFORMATION SERVICE.
/IT IS .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
IT IS DESIGNED AND EQUIPPED FOR FIELD WORK IN ECOLOGY AND GEOGRAPHY BY SECONDARY 6 AND 7 STUDENTS WHO WOULD BE ABLE TO OBTAIN A MORE THOROUGH UNDERSTANDING OF THE THEORIES LEARNT.
THE PARTY ALSO VISITED THE EXHIBITION HALL WHERE BIOLOGICAL SPECIMENS, ROCKS AND MINERALS ARE DISPLAYED, AND THE REFERENCE LIBRARY WHICH PROVIDES ABOUT 2,000 REFERENCE BOOKS, JOURNALS, PERIODICALS AND MAGAZINES ON FIELD STUDIES IN ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY AND GEOGRAPHY.
THE CENTRE RUNS ABOUT 16 COURSES EACH ON ECOLOGY AND GEOGRAPHY FOR SECONDARY 6 AND 7 STUDENTS EACH ACADEMIC YEAR.
IT ALSO RUNS SPECIAL COURSES AND ARRANGES VISITS FOR VARIOUS ORGANISATIONS SUCH AS THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB, THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARDS SCHEME AND THE COLLEGES OF EDUCATION.
THE BOE MEMBERS WERE TOLD THAT MORE THAN 14,000 STUDENTS AND 3,400 TEACHERS FROM ABOUT 400 SECONDARY SCHOOLS HAVE PARTICIPATED IN THE VARIOUS COURSES ORGANISED BY THE CENTRE DURING THE LAST 10 YEARS.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN CHAI WAN * » » » »
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25), THE FOLLOWING ROAD SECTIONS IN CHAI WAN WILL BE DESIGNATED URBAN CLEARWAYS DURING THE PERIODS SPECIFIED BELOW:
FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY
* CHAI WAN ROAD EASTBOUND FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH KUT SHING STREET TO A POINT ABOUT 50 METRES TO THE EAST.
* CHEUNG LEE STREET BETWEEN ITS SOUTHERN JUN* ’’ ION WITH KUT SHING STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 45 METRES TO THE NORTH.
» THE WESTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF KUT SHING STREET FROM A POINT ABOUT 60 METRES WEST OF ITS SOUTHERN JUNCTION WITH CHEUNG LEE STREET TO A POINT ABOUT 25 METRES TO THE NORTH.
FROM 7 AM TO 10 AM AND FROM 4 PM TO 7 PM DAILY
t HONG MAN STREET BETWEEN CHEUNG LEE STREET AND A POINT ABOUT 35 METRES WEST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH TAI MAN STREET.
* THE EASTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF KUT SHING STREET FROM ITS NORTHERN JUNCTION WITH CHEUNG LEE STREET TO A POINT ABOUT 50 METRES WEST OF ITS SOUTHERN JUNCTION WITH CHEUNG LEE STREET.
/NO VEHICLES
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1989
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PMD t>ao^vehicles except franchised buses will be allowed to stop FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREAS.
10 AM 0N SATURDAY, THE ONE-WAY NORTHBOUND EXTENDED SECTION OF KUT SHING STREET WILL BE OPENED TO TRAFFIC.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN SHA TIN *****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT IN ORDER TO FACILITATE THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SHA TIN SECTION OF ROUTE 5. FROM 10 AM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25) VEHICLES WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO TURN RIGHT FROM THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF TAI PO ROAD INTO SHING CHUEN ROAD FOR FOUR MONTHS.
DURING THE PERIOD. MOTORISTS ON THE NORTHBOUND CARRIAGEWAY OF TAI PO ROAD HEADING FOR SHING CHUEN ROAD MAY USE TAI PO ROAD NORTHBOUND. SHA TIN RURAL COMMITTEE ROAD AND TAI PO ROAD SOUTHBOUND BEFORE LEFT TURNING INTO SHING CHUEN ROAD.
AT THE SAME TIME. KMB ROUTES NOS. 48A. 48B, AND 86B WILL BE DIVERTED TO OPERATE VIA TAI PO ROAD. MEI TIN ROAD. TAI WAI ROAD. CHIK CHUEN STREET. SHING HO ROAD. SHING CHUEN ROAD. SHING WAN ROAD, SHING CHUEN ROAD. AND TSUEN NAM ROAD ON THE.IR JOURNEYS TO CHUN SHEK AND HIN KENG.
A TEMPORARY BUS STOP WILL BE PROVIDED ON SHING HO ROAD TO REPLACE THE ONE AT TAI PO ROAD NEAR ITS JUNCTION WITH TUNG LO WAN SHAN ROAD.
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TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT IN KOWLOON CITY *****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT IN ORDER TO FACILITATE THE LAYING OF ANTI-SKID SURFACE DRESSING. A SHORT SECTION OF THE SOUTHERN KERBSIDE LANE ON BOUNDARY STREET WEST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH WATERLOO ROAD IN KOWLOON CITY WILL BE TEMPORARILY CLOSED FROM 1 PM ON SATURDAY (NOVEMBER 25) TO 5 PM THE FOLLOWING DAY.
DURING THE CLOSURE. MOTORISTS ON BOUNDARY STREET EASTBOUND HEADING FOR WATERLOO ROAD SOUTHBOUND WILL BE DIVERTED TO TRAVEL EITHER VTA LA SALLE ROAD SOUTHBOUND AND PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST. OR VIA EARL STREET. PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST. LA SALLE ROAD NORTHBOUND AND LANCASHIRE ROAD.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL.: 5-8428777
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
ECONOMIC SITUATION IN THIRD QUARTER OF 1989, AND UPDATED FORECASTS OF GDP AND PRICES FOR 1989 ...................... 1
HK STOCKBROKERS ASSN PLAYS IMPORTANT ROLE ............... 6
PUBLIC MORE AWARE OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH ................ 7
PRIVATE SCHOOLS REVIEW COMMITTEE SET UP ................. 9
ADVANTAGES OF REGIONALISING ELDERLY RESIDENTIAL SERVICES ... 10
HK CULTURAL CENTRE: A WORLD CLk&S PRODUCT ............... 12
FAREWELL PARADE FOR COMMISSIONER OF POLICE .............. 1?
LADY WILSON INAUGURATES 'CASTLE OF UNITY' PROJECT ....... 14
ENHANCED PROTECTION OF CONFIDENTIALITY FOR SURVEY DATA SOUGHT ................................................... 16
CONTROL OF DISPLAY OF FARE TABLES IN TAXIS .............. 16
OPERATIONS AGAINST LITTERERS ............................ 17
MONG KOK DISTRICT FESTIVAL TO START NEXT MONTH .......... 18
SPORTS CARNIVAL IN CENTRAL ON SUNDAY .................... 19
TRAFFIC SAFETY DAY ON LANTAU ............................ 20
CARNIVAL TO PROMOTE CLEAN ENVIRONMENT.................... 21
STUDENTS INVITED TO JOIN INTERNATIONAL ART CONTEST....... 22
LONG DISTANCE RUN FOR YAU TSIM RESIDENTS ................ 22
MSB CHECKS BOTTLED DRINKING WATER REGULARLY ............. 23
CHILDREN'S ARTS AND CRAFTS CARNIVAL IN POK FU LAM........ 23
FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION CARNIVAL AND VARIETY SHOW ......... 24
CAREERS INFORMATION CENTRE MOVES TO TUEN MUN ............ 25
FIRING PRACTICE IN DECEMBER ............................. 25
SHA TIN SITE FOR PSPS DEVELOPMENT........................ 26
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENT WORKS AT KENNEDY ROAD............... 26
NEW ROADS TO BE BUILT IN TAI PO ......................... 27
TENDERS INVITED FOR LAI CHI KOK ROAD IMPROVEMENT WORKS... 28
PROPOSED LAYING OF SUBMARINE CABLES ..................... 29
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN CENTRAL ......................... 29
WATER CUT IN YUEN LONG .................................. 50
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989 1
ECONOMIC SITUATION IN THIRD QUARTER OF 1989, AND UPDATED FORECASTS OF GDP AND PRICES FOR 1989 ■ , • * * ♦ t *
THE PACE OF ECONOMIC GROWTH CONTINUED TO DECELERATE IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1989, DUE TO A MARKED SLOWDOWN IN BOTH EXTERNAL TRADE AND DOMESTIC DEMAND.
THE REPERCUSSIONS OF THE EVENTS IN CHINA IN EARLY JUNE REINFORCED THE CYCLICAL DOWNTURN OF THE ECONOMY.
HOWEVER, INDICATIVE OF CONTINUING CONSTRAINTS ON CAPACITY DURING THE THIRD QUARTER, THE LABOUR MARKET REMAINED GENERALLY TIGHT, AND THE RATE OF INFLATION WAS STILL HIGH.
AN ANALYSIS OF DEVELOPMENTS IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF THIS YEAR IS GIVEN IN THE THIRD QUARTER ECONOMIC REPORT 1989 PUBLISHED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE GOVERNMENT ECONOMIST, MR K.Y. TANG, SAID THAT ON THE BASIS OF THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION AVAILABLE, A FURTHER REVIEW HAD BEEN MADE OF THE FORECASTS OF THE GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) AND OF PRICE TRENDS FOR 1989.
THE MAIN UPDATED FORECASTS ARE : 3 PER CENT FOR THE GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF THE GDP, AND 10 P£R CENT FOR THE RATES OF INCREASE IN BOTH THE GDP DEFLATOR AND THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A).
THE . LATEST GDP FORECAST REFLECTS A FASTER THAN EXPECTED DECELERATION IN THE THIRD QUARTER. AS PREDICTED, THE RATE OF INFLATION WOULD REMAIN HIGH FOR A WHILE BEFORE IT BEGINS TO EASE.
IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1989, DOMESTIC EXPORTS FELL BY ABOUT 1
PER CENT IN REAL TERMS OVER THE SAME QUARTER IN 1988. THIS COMPARES
WITH INCREASES OF 6 PER CENT IN THE FIRST QUARTER AND 2 PER CENT IN
THE SECOND QUARTER.
DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE VARIOUS MAJOR MARKETS SHOWED A MIXED PERFORMANCE. DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO JAPAN CONTINUED TO GROW RAPIDLY, BUT DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA DECELERATED MARKEDLY. WHILE DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY AND THE UNITED KINGDOM CONTINUED TO DECLINE. THE FALL IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE UNITED STATES APPEARED TO HAVE STABILISED SOMEWHAT.
THE UNITED STATES REMAINED THE LARGEST MARKET FOR HONG KONG’S DOMESTIC EXPORTS. BUT ITS SHARE IN THE TOTAL VALUE FELL FROM 33 PER CENT IN 1988 TO 32 PER CENT IN THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF 1989.
RE-EXPORTS INCREASED BY ABOUT 17 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS IN THE THIRD QUARTER OVER THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR, REPRESENTING A MARKED SLOWDOWN FROM THE GROWTH RATES OF 34 PER CENT IN THE FIRST QUARTER AND 25 PER CENT IN THE SECOND QUARTER.
/THE GROWTH .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
2
THE GROWTH RATE OF RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA, IN PARTICULAR, HAS BEEN ON A DECLINING TREND. THIS WAS PARTLY DUE TO THE EFFECT OF CHINA’S AUSTERITY PROGRAMME AND ITS INTENSIFICATION IN RECENT MONTHS, AND PARTLY DUE TO A LARGER BASE OF COMPARISON FOLLOWING SUBSTANTIAL GROWTH FOR TWO CONSECUTIVE YEARS.
ANOTHER FACTOR WAS A SLACKENING IN OUTWARD PROCESSING ACTIVITIES ACROSS THE BORDER. THE SLOWDOWN IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA WAS ATTRIBUTABLE TO BROADLY THE SAME REASONS.
THE YEAR-ON-YEAR GROWTH RATE OF IMPORTS ALSO SLOWED DOWN CONSIDERABLY. TO ABOUT 4 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS IN THE THIRD QUARTER, FROM 26 PER CENT AND 15 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY IN THE FIRST AND SECOND QUARTERS.
ON THE SAME BASIS OF COMPARISON. RETAINED IMPORTS FELL BY ABOUT 8 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS IN THE THIRD QUARTER. FOLLOWING INCREASES OF 19 PER CENT AND 7 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY (N THE FIRST AND SECOND QUARTERS.
A VISIBLE TRADE DEFICIT OF $1,515 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO ONLY 0.4 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS. WAS RECORDED IN THE FIRST NINE MONTHS OF 1989. THIS COMPARES WITH A DEFICIT OF $5,282 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 1.5 PER. CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, RECORDED IN THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
IN LINE WITH THE SLOWDOWN IN OVERALL ECONOMIC ACTIVITY, DOMESTIC DEMAND SLACKENED FURTHER DURING THE THIRD QUARTER.
ON CONSUMPTION, THE VOLUME OF RETAIL SALES FELL IN THE THIRD QUARTER OVER A YEAR EARLIER. AND THE RATE OF DECLINE WAS EVEN LARGER FOR RETAINED IMPORTS OF CONSUMER GOODS.
ON INVESTMENT. RETAINED IMPORTS OF CAPITAL GOODS ALSO FELL SIGNIFICANTLY OVER THE SAME PERIOD.
THE RATE OF INFLATION WAS STILL HIGH. COMPARING THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1989 WITH THE SAME QUARTER IN 1988, THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) ROSE BY 10.1 PER CENT, THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (B) BY 9.8 PER CENT AND THE HANG SENG CONSUMER PRICE INDEX BY 10.9 PER CENT.
THE CORRESPONDING INCREASES IN THESE THREE INDICES IN THE SECOND QUARTER WERE 10.4 PER CENT, 9.9 PER CENT AND 11.0 PER CENT. THE INFLATIONARY PRESSURES WERE LARGELY DOMESTICALLY GENERATED.
OF THE VARIOUS COMPONENTS OF THE CPI(A). THE FASTEST INCREASES IN PRICES WERE RECORDED IN TRANSPORT. SERVICES, AND FOODSTUFFS (INCLUDING MEALS TAKEN AWA\ FROM HOME WHICH HAVE A LARGE SERVICE CONTENT).
JUDGING FROM THE RECENT TRENDS, THE RATE OF CONSUMER PRICE INFLATION APPEARED TO BF LEVELLING OFF.
THE GENERALLY TIGHT LABOUR MARKET CONDITIONS CONTINUED IN THE THIRD QUARTER, AND LABOUR INCOMES INCREASED FURTHER BOTH IN MONEY TERMS AND IN REAL TERMS.
/THE SEASONALLY .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
- 3 -
THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE AND THE UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE REMAINED LOW AT 1,4 PER CENT AND 0.6 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY DURING THE QUARTER.
HOWEVER, THE NUMBER OF VACANCIES IN JUNE WAS SMALLER THAN IN BOTH MARCH THIS YEAR AND JUNE LAST YEAR.
THE PROPERTY MARKET HAS REVIVED SOMEWHAT SINCE LATE JULY, ALTHOUGH THE DEGREE OF RECOVERY VARIED BETWEEN SUB-SECTORS. SUPPORT HAS RE-EMERGED ROM END-USERS OF RESIDENTIAL FLATS, PARTICULARLY SMALL TO MEDIUM-SIZED FLATS.
THE LEASING MARKET FOR OFFICE SPACE SEEMS TO HAVE BEEN AFFECTED LEAST. MEANWHILE. THE DEMAND FOR INDUSTRIAL PREMISES HAS REMAINED MODERATE.
IN THE FINANCIAL SECTOR, THE FOLLOWING DEVELOPMENTS DURING THE THIRD QUARTER ARE NOTEWORTHY.
FIRST, THE MARKET EXCHANGE RATE OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR REMAINED STABLE AGAINST THE U.S. DOLLAR. REFLECTING THE MOVEMENT OF THE U.S. DOLLAR, THE OVERALL EXCHANGE VALUE OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPRECIATED MARGINALLY DURING THE QUARTER.
SECONDLY. INTEREST RATES IN THE LOCAL MONEY MARKET FELL FURTHER IN JULY BUT BECAME MORE STABLE THEREAFTER.
THIRDLY. PARTLY REFLECTING THE SLOWDOWN IN OVERALL ECONOMIC GROWTH, DOMESTIC LOANS AND ADVANCES ROSE MORE SLOWLY. THE GROWTH RATES OF HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS AND OF THE BROADEST DEFINITION OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR MONEY SUPPLY ALSO DECELERATED.
FOURTHLY, THE LOCAL STOCK MARKET SHOWED SOME RECOVERY AMIDST OCCASIONAL FLUCTUATIONS.
IN THE LIGHT OF THESE RECENT DEVELOPMENTS, THE ECONOMIC FORECASTS FOR 1989 HAVE BEEN UPDATED.
MR TANG SAID THAT THE LATEST UPDATE OF THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF THE GDP. AT 3 PER CENT, HAS TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT THE MARKED SLOWDOWN IN BOTH DOMESTIC AND EXTERNAL DEMAND, AS WELL AS THE FACT THAT FURTHER SIGNIFICANT GROWTH OF THE ECONOMY IN THE SHORT TERM WOULD BE CONSTRAINED BY CAPACITY AFTER SEVERAL YEARS OF RAPID GROWTH. THE REPERCUSSIONS OF THE EVENTS IN CHINA ARE ALSO RELEVANT.
A CONSOLIDATION IN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY AT THIS STAGE SHOULD HELP TO REDUCE THE RISK OF CONTINUING HIGH INFLATION.
IN THE EXTERNAL SECTOR, THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WAS LOWERED TO 1.5 PER CENT.
DESPITE THE GENERALLY STABLE ORDER-BOOK POSITION OF THE LARGE MANUFACTURERS. CURRENT INFORMATION ON RETAINED IMPORTS OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES SUGGESTS THAT THE PERFORMANCE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WOULD REMAIN SLUGGISH IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS.
/A SLOWDOWN
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
4
A SLOWDOWN IN HONG KONG'S DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO OVERSEAS MARKETS WOULD BRING ABOUT A CONCURRENT SLACKENING IN THOSE DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA THAT ARE ASSOCIATED WITH OUTWARD PROCESSING ACTIVITIES.
THE GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF RE-EXPORTS WAS FORECAST AT 20 PER. CENT.
IN THE COMING MONTHS. RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA WOULD CONTINUE TO BE RESTRAINED DY CHINA’S AUSTERITY MEASURES AND BY THE SLACKENING IN OUTWARD PROCESSING ACTIVITIES.
ON THE OTHER HAND, THE GROWTH RATE OF RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN WAS EXPECTED TO REMAIN SUBSTANTIAL.
AS DEMAND SLACKENED, THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF IMPORTS WAS LOWERED TO AROUND 11 PER CENT.
INVISIBLE TRADE WAS ALSO EXPECTED TO GROW MORE SLOWLY, REFLECTING IN PART A MORE MODERATE DEMAND FOR TRADE-RELATED SERVICES AND IN PART A REDUCTION IN TOURIST SPENDING.
BOTH EXPORTS AND IMPORTS OF SERVICES WERE THUS FORECAST TO GROW BY 5 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS.
IN THE DOMESTIC SECTOR. THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF GOVERNMENT CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE REMAINED AT 6 PER CENT. WHILE THOSE OF PRIVATE CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE AND OF GROSS DOMESTIC FIXED CAPITAL FORMATION WERE LOWERED TO 3.5 PER CENT AND 3.4 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY.
WITHIN THE LATTER COMPONENT, THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF EXPENDITURE ON BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION WAS RAISED TO AROUND 4 PER CENT. MAINLY DUE TO A FASTER GROWTH IN PUBLIC SECTOR CONSTRUCTION: WHILE THAT OF EXPENDITURE ON PLANT AND EQUIPMENT WAS LOWERED TO 4.7 PER CENT. REFLECTING A MORE CAUTIOUS APPROACH TOWARDS INVESTMENT IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR AS ECONOMIC ACTIVITY SLACKENED.
ON INFLATION. IN THE LIGHT OF THE RECENT PRICE LEVELS IT WAS CONSIDERED APPROPRIATE TO RAISE SLlGHTL’i THE FORECAST RATES OF INCREASE IN THE CPI(A) AND THE GDP DEFLATOR, BOTH TO ID PER CENT.
THE PRESSURES ON COSTS AND PRICES ARE EFFECTIVELY RESTRAINING DEMAND.
THE CONSEQUENT SLOWDOWN IN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY SHOULD HELP TO EASE INFLATION TN DUE COURSE.
DETAILS OF THE UPDATED FORECASTS ARE SHOWN IN THE FOLLOWING TABLE.
THE THIRD QUARTER ECONOMIC REPORT 1989 WILL BE ON SALE ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 27) AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE IN THE GPO BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AT $20 A COPY.
/FORECAST FOR .......
FRIDAY, NOVDffiER 2U, 1989
•‘VH
FORECAST FOR 1989 AS CURRENT UPDAT*
UPDATED ON RELEASED ON
25.8.89 24.11.89
<%) <%>
GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF:
PRIVATE CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE 5.5 3.5
GOVERNMENT CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE 6 6
'Gross domestic fixed capital formation 4‘. 1 TRANSFER COSTS OF LAND AND BUILDINGS • i ! t* • '■ BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION 4.5 5 3.4 3.4 4 4 r r
PRIVATE ' PUBLIC •* 1 . ' 1 1.5 1
7 10 1
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS’ MARGIN 0 0
'-ILaNT. MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT 8 4.7 • I
PRIVATE 7 4
PUBLIC 40 32
TOTAL EXPORTS OF GOODS Hi ,r i 11.9 11.6
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 4.5 r 1.5
RE-EXPORTS 18 20
: ’ IMPORTS OF GOODS 12.3 11.2
EXPORTS OF SERVICES 7 5
• J ’ ' ' J IMPORTS OF SERVICES 5 5
GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) 5 3
PfeR .CAPITA GDP A • 1 / • 3.8 1.9 • /
GROWTH RATE IN MONEY TERMS OF:
GDP. jit 14.9 13.4
PER CAPITA GDP 13.6 12.1
/RATE OF
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
- 6 -
RATE OF INCREASE IN:
GDP DEFLATOR 1 9.5 10
DOMESTIC DEMAND DEFLATOR 04 ln
CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) q <:
» . □ id
------0-------- 1 •
i f *
HK STOCKBROKERS ASSN PLAYS IMPORTANT ROLE j . ..
* t t ♦ ♦ ’ ‘ ' ,»
THE HONG KONG STOCKBROKERS ASSOCIATION HAS AN IMPORTANT RQLE TO PLAY IN HELPING THE SECURITIES AND FUTURES COMMISSION (SFC) IN ARRIVING AT A "HONG KONG SOLUTION" IN THE REGULATION OF THE SECURITIES INDUSTRY, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, SIR PIERS JACOBS, SAID THIS (FRIDAY) EVENING. ” A • ... »r
SPEAKING AT THE ASSOCIATION’S INAUGURAL MEETING OF NEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS, SIR PIERS SAID THE ABILITY OF THE MARKET TO WITHSTAND THE SETBACKS IN JUNE AND OCTOBER THIS YEAR INDICATED THAT THE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK CREATED BY THE STOCK AND THE FUTURES EXCHANGES AND THE SFC WAS WORKING WELL.
, , ’ ' i • ' v ' «r
AND THIS REFLECTED GREAT CREDIT ON ALL INVOLVED, INCLUDING PRACTITIONERS IN THE MARKET, HE ADDED. ‘ ‘
"THE GOVERNMENT IS AWARE OF MARKET CONCERNS ABOUT OVER-REGULATION. AND THE POSSIBILITY THAT THE NEW ARRANGEMENTS DO NOT TAKE SUFFICIENT ACCOUNT OF LOCAL CONDITIONS.
"I HOPE TIME WILL PROVE THAT THESE WORRIES ARE UNFOUNDED. THE COMMISSION IS ALWAYS MINDFUL OF THE TIME-HONOURED CONSULTATIVE TRADITIONS IN HONG KONG AND HAS DEVELOPED CLOSE WORKING RELATIONSHIPS WITH CONCERNED MARKET BODIES.
"WORKING TOGETHER I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT ANY OUTSTANDING
PROBLEMS CAN BE SOLVED," HE SAID.
SIR PIERS POINTED OUT THAT WITH INPUT FROM THE STOCKBROKERS ASSOCIATION AND OTHER MARKET BODIES. THE SFC HAD ALREADY COMPLETELY RESTRUCTURED ITS PROPOSED NEW APPLICATION FORMS FOR REGISTERED PERSONS.
’ -i ’**'• 1.
"I UNDERSTAND THAT THE COMMISSION HAS ALSO SOUGHT YOUR ASSOCIATION’S ASSISTANCE TN DEVELOPING THE ’FIT AND PROPER’ TEST.
"THE ’FIT AND PROPER’ TEST FOR REGISTERED PERSONS IS THE CORNERSTONE OF Till LOCAL REGULATORY REGIME, AND THE CONSULTATIVE DOCUMENT REPRESENTS A MAJOR STEP BY THE COMMISSION TOWARDS THE ESTABLISHMENT OF FAIR AND CLEAR RULES WHICH WILL PROMOTE COMMERCIAL CERTAINTY AND CONFIDENCE IN THE INTEGRITY OF OUR MARKETS." HE NOTED.
/TURNING TO
• r *••••
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
TURNING TO OTHER NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE SECURITIES INDUSTRY, SIR PIERS SAID THE DECISION BY THE COUNCIL OF THE STOCK EXCHANGE TO SUPPORT THE MAIN FEATURES OF THE CENTRAL CLEARING PROJECT WAS A MAJOR ONE.
"NOT ONLY WILL THE NEW SYSTEM ENHANCE SETTLEMENT EFFICIENCY, IT WILL ALSO REDUCE RISKS BETWEEN MEMBERS.
"THIS WILL ATTRACT MORE INVESTORS. BOTH LOCAL AND FOREIGN, TO THE HONG KONG MARKET, THEREBY CONTRIBUTING FURTHER TO ITS LIQUIDITY," HE SAID.
SIR PIERS BELIEVED THAT WITH THESE NEW DEVELOPMENTS. THE SECURITIES MARKET WOULD ASSUME AN INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE REGION AND FURTHER ENHANCE HONG KONG'S STATUS AS A FINANCIAL CENTRE.
"YOUR ASSOCIATION WILL NO DOUBT BE AN ESSENTIAL PARTNER IN WORKING TOWARDS THE SUCCESS OF THESE DEVELOPMENTS." HE SAID.
-------------------0------- PUBLIC MORE AWARE OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH » » t » t
THE PUBLIC HAS BECOME MORE AWARE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE SINCE THE FIRST OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH EXHIBITION HELD LAST YEAR AND THIS IS ENCOURAGING. THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR. MR TONY HAMMOND. SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE "OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVE: CONSTRUCTION AND QUARRYING INDUSTRIES" EXHIBITION AT THE NEW TOWN PLAZA IN SHA TIN. MR HAMMOND SAID THE EVENT AIMED TO AROUSE THE INTEREST OF EMPLOYERS AND WORKERS TN THE VARIOUS HEALTH HAZARDS AND OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES FREQUENTLY FOUND IN THESE TRADES AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES THAT COULD BE TAKEN.
A PROMINENT FEATURE OF THE EXHIBITION IS A VIDEO FILM ON SILICOSIS. WHICH WAS PRODUCED BY LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH DIVISION. WITH FUNDS FROM THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS COMPENSATION FUND BOARD.
"THROUGH AUDIO AND VISUAL DISPLAYS. THE ATTENTION OF THE PUBLIC WILL BF DRAWN TO THOSE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH ASPECTS WHICH, IF NEGLECTED. ARE LIKELY TO BRING MUCH DISTRESS TO THE WORKERS AND THEIR FAMILIES AND. SOMETIMES. EVEN LOSS OF LIFE." MR HAMMOND SAID.
ALSO OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY WERE THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH. DR S.H. LEE. THE VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL (OSHC). MR K.Y. TONGSON, AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE OF OSHC. MR PETER NIE.
/IN HIS .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2U, 1989
- 8 -
IN HIS SPEECH, DR LEE SAID THAT PNEUMOCONIOSIS WAS STILL THE MOST COMMON OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE IN HONG KONG.
EACH YEAR, ABOUT 170 TO 180 NEW CASES OF SILICOSIS, A TYPE OF PNEUMOCONIOSIS, WERE REPORTED.
"THERE HAVE BEEN MANY REMARKABLE TECHNICAL ADVANCES IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND QUARRYING INDUSTRIES IN RECENT YEARS,” DR LEE SAID.
"THE MODERN METHODS USED NOW SUPPRESS DUST AT SOURCE. CONTROL ITS EMISSION OR ENCLOSE THE DUSTY PROCESS ALTOGETHER, THUS REDUCING THE HAZARDS OF DUST."
HOWEVER, HE SAID, THERE WAS NO ROOM FOR COMPLACENCY AS PNEUMOCONIOSIS REMAINED THE MOST COMMON OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE IN THE TERRITORY.
"PUBLIC HEALTH IS PUBLIC WEALTH". HE SAID. "THE PROMOTION OF HEALTH OF THE WORKFORCE IS IMPORTANT IN INCREASING THE PRODUCTIVITY OF THE COMMUNITY.”
DR LEE SAID THE PROMOTION OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH WAS NOT SOLELY THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE GOVERNMENT.
"TO BE MORE EFFECTIVE. ALL EFFORTS OF HEALTH EDUCATION OF THE WORKFORCE MUST HAVE THE ESSENTIAL SUPPORT OF THE EMPLOYER. EMPLOYEE AND THE GOVERNMENT," HE SAID.
THE EXHIBITION. THE THIRD OF ITS KIND STAGED IN THE PAST TWO YEARS, IS ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND CO-ORGANISED BY THE OSHC.
IT FEATURES PHOTOGRAPHS AND SAMPLES ILLUSTRATING THE VARIOUS OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES AND HAZARDS, INCLUDING SILICOSIS, ASBESTOSIS, CONTACT DERMATITIS. POISONING CAUSED BY ORGANIC SOLVENT AND GAS AS WELL AS DEAFNESS CAUSED DY NOISE.
VISITORS CAN TRY THE LUNG FUNCTION TEST AND OBTAIN INFORMATION ON SOME 1.000 CHEMICALS COMMONLY USED IN LOCAL INDUSTRIES FROM A COMPUTER TOXICOLOGY DATA BANK.
THE EXHIBITION IS OPEN FROM 10 AM TO 7 PM DAILY UNTIL TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 28).
-----0-----
/9........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
- 9 -
PRIVATE SCHOOLS REVIEW COMMITTEE SET UP *****
AN EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MRS RITA FAN, HAS BEEN APPOINTED CHAIRMAN OF THE PRIVATE SCHOOLS REVIEW COMMITTEE (PSRC), THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE SETTING UP OF THE COMMITTEE FOLLOWS THE ACCEPTANCE BY THE GOVERNMENT OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED IN THE EDUCATION COMMISSION REPORT NO. 3 REGARDING THE IMPROVEMENT OF BOUGHT PLACE PRIVATE SCHOOLS AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A DIRECT SUBSIDY SCHEME.
THE COMMITTEF COMPRISES FOUR UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS AND THREE OFFICIAL MEMBERS.
THEY ARE DR LEONG CHE-HUNG; MR TIMOTHY HA WING-HO, PRINCIPAL OF ST PAUL'S COLLEGE; MR TAM MAN-KWUN, PRINCIPAL OF YUEN LONG PAK KAU ENGLISH SCHOOL: PROFESSOR TO CHO-YEE OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG: MR C.D. GODWIN OF THE EDUCATION AND MANPOWER BRANCH; MR B. BRESNIILAN OF THE FINANCE BRANCH; AND MR CHAN YAM-PANG OF THE EDUCAT I ON DEPARTMENT.
THE TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE PSRC ARE TO:
I 1 ) ADVISE THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (D OF E) ON ALL MATTERS RELATING TO THE BOUGHT PLACE SCHEME (BPS) AND THE DIRECT SUBSIDY SCHEME (DSS).
( 2 )
ADVISE D OF E ON THE TERMS OF THE CONTRACTS WITH EACH SCHOOL IN THE BPS, AS RECOMMENDED 1.37 AND 4.39 OF THE EDUCATION COMMISSION (ECR 3). THIS ADVICE SHOULD TAKE INTO
TO BE SIGNED IN PARAGRAPHS REPORT NO. 3
ACCOUNT THE
INTENTION TO PHASE OUT THE BPS BY THE YEAR 2000. IT SHOULD
ENCOMPASS -
( A )
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PLACES IN THE SCHOOL AND NUMBER OF PI,ACES TO BE BOUGHT BY THE GOVERNMENT;
THE
IB) THE FEES TO BE CHARGED; AND
(C) IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SCHOOLS TO BE INTRODUCED WITHIN THE CONTRACT PERIOD. THESE SHOULD COMPRISE APPROPRIATE IMPROVEMENTS To THE PROPORTION OF GRADUATE TEACHERS, THE UPGRADING OF UNQUALIFIED TEACHERS, TEACHER TO CLASS RATIOS, TEACHERS’ SALARIES, CLASS STRUCTURE. ('LASS SIZE, FACILITIES, STAFFING. SCHOOL MANAGEMENT, AND PROGRESS TOWARDS UNISESS1 ONAL ISM, AS DETAILED IN PARAGRAPHS 1.12 TO 1.17 OF ECR 3.
(3) ADVISE D OF E ON THE OVERALL LEVEL OF PLACES TO BE MAINTAINED IN THE BPS HAVING REGARD TO PARAGRAPHS 1.28 AND 4.31 OF ECR 3.
/(4) ADVISE ........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
10
(4) ADVISE D OF E ON THE RE-ADMISSION OF SCHOOLS TO THE BPS.
(5) ADVISE ON THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF INDIVIDUAL LOANS OFFERED TO BPS SCHOOLS TO ACQUIRE PERMANENT PREMISES.
(6) ADVISE D OF E ON THE APPROPRIATENESS OF EACH APPLICATION TO JOIN THE DIRECT SUBSIDY SCHEME (DSS).
(7) MONITOR PARENTAL DEMAND FOR DSS PLACES, ASSESS THE IMPLICATIONS OF AN EXPANSION OF THE DSS ON THE DEMAND FOR GOVERNMENT AND AIDED PLACES, AND ADVISE D OF E ACCORDINGLY.
(8) ADVISE D OF E ON THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE ENTRY OF STUDENTS TO DSS SCHOOLS IN ACCORDANCE WITH PARAGRAPHS 4.55. 4.56 AND 4.64 OF ECR 3.
(9) DEFINE AN ADEQUATE PERIOD OF NOTICE REQUIRED OF ANY DSS SCHOOL WHICH INTENDS TO CLOSE DOWN, IN ACCORDANCE WITH PARAGRAPH 4.64 OF ECR 3.
(10) DETERMINE THE LEVEL OF SUBSIDY TO WHICH EACH SCHOOL IS ENTITLED, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRINCIPLE IN 4.61 TO 4.63 OF ECR 3.
(11) VET THE PROSPECTUSES ISSUED BY DSS SCHOOLS. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RECOMMENDATIONS IN PARAGRAPHS 4.58 AND 4.59 OF ECR 3.
112) INSPECT THE AUDITED ACCOUNTS OF DSS SCHOOLS AND TO FORMULATE APPROPRIATE RULES FOR DEFINING ABUSES BY DSS SCHOOLS. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RECOMMENDATIONS IN PARAGRAPH 4.60 OF ECR 3.
(13) ADVISE THE D OF E WHETHER ANY SCHOOL SHOULD BE DEPRIVED OF DSS STATUS AND SUBSIDY AS A RESULT OF ABUSES DEFINED IN ACCORDANCE WITH (12) ABOVE.
-------o---------
ADVANTAGES OF REGIONALISING ELDERLY
* » » » t
RESIDENTIAL SERVICES
THE GOVERNMENT RECOGNISES THE ADVANTAGES OF REGIONALISING RESIDENTIAL SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY AND IS WORKING TOWARDS THIS END, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE HONG KONG SOCIETY FOR THE AGED, MRS WONG SAID REGIONALISATION OF THE SERVICES WOULD ENABLE ELDERLY PEOPLE TO OBTAIN RESIDENTIAL SERVICES WITHIN THE COMMUNITY THEY WERE FAMILIAR WITH.
/SHE POINTED .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
11
SHE POINTED OUT THAT A REASON FOR SOME ELDERLY’S RESISTANCE TOWARDS STAYING IN RESIDENTIAL INSTITUTIONS WAS THE FEELING OF SEGREGATION FROM RELATIVES AND FRIENDS AS MOST OF THESE INSTITUTIONS WERE SITUATED IN REMOTER PARTS OF THE TERRITORY.
"DUE TO THE LIMITED LAND SUPPLY, WHAT WE CAN DO IS TO PROVIDE SERVICES WHERE SPACE IS AVAILABLE." MRS WONG EXPLAINED.
"COMMUNITY CARE SERVICES AND RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES ARE TWO CATEGORIES OF SERVICES PROVIDED FOR THE ELDERLY UNDER THE EXISTING GOVERNMENT POLICY."
SHE NOTED THAT WHENEVER SITES WERE AVAILABLE, THEY WERE USUALLY ALLOCATED TO RENDERING COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES WHICH INCLUDED DAY CARE FACILITIES SUCH AS SOCIAL CENTRES AND DAY CARE CENTRES. HOME HELP SERVICE AND PERSONAL COUNSELLING.
"THIS IS BECAUSE BASICALLY COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES HAVE TO BE PROVIDED WITHIN THE COMMUNITY ELDERLY PEOPLE ARE LIVING IN AND THESE FACILITIES USUALLY REQUIRE LESS SPACE," SHE SAID.
"HENCE. RESIDENTIAL INSTITUTIONS WILL THEN HAVE TO BE LOCATED IN RURAL AREAS AND NEW TOWNS."
HOWEVER,'MRS WONG POINTED OUT THAT AT PRESENT THE GOVERNMENT MIGHT BE ABLE TO ACHIEVE THE AIM OF REGIONALISI NG THE RESIDENTIAL SERVICES.
"AS THE NUMBERS OF EXISTING AND PLANNED UNITS PROVIDING COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES HAVE NEARLY REACHED OUR TARGET, WE MAY NOW HAVE SPARE CAPACITY TO ACHIEVE OUR GOAL OF REGIONALISING THE RESIDENTIAL SERVICES," SHE SAID.
MRS WONG SAID IT WAS ALSO HOPED THAT THE VARIOUS KINDS OF RESIDENTIAL SERVICES COULD BE MADE AVAILABLE WITHIN ONE INSTITUTION OR IN INSTITUTIONS OF THE SAME NEIGHBOURHOOD.
"FOR EXAMPLE. WHEN RESIDENTS OF AN INSTITUTION ARE IN NEED OF NURSING SERVICE DUE TO DECLINING HEALTH, THEY CAN OBTAIN IT WITHIN THE SAME INSTITUTION WITHOUT HAVING TO BE TRANSFERRED TO ANOTHER INSTITUTION WHICH IS LOCATED IN A COMMUNITY THEY ARE UNFAMILIAR WITH.
"WE HOPE TO INTRODUCE THIS NEW MEASURE AT A LIMITED SCALE NEXT YEAR. AND TO EXPAND IT IF RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE." SHE ADDED.
NOTING THAT ELDERLY SERVICES HAD MADE GREAT IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST DECADE, SHE CALLED ON VOLUNTARY AGENCIES AND THE PUBLIC TO CONTINUE RENDERING THEIR SUPPORT AND CO-OPERATION.
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 24. 1989
12
HE CULTURAL CENTRE: A WORLD CLASS PRODUCT
*****
HONG KONG CAN NOW CLAIM TO POSSESS A WORLD CLASS VENUE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS FOLLOWING THE RECENT OPENING OF THE HONG KONG CULTURAL CENTRE.
THE DIRECTOR OF ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES. MR JOSE LEI. TOLD A ROTARY CLUB OF ADMIRALTY LUNCHEON TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT THE CENTRE WOULD BE ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR PERFORMANCE VENUES FOR HONG KONG PEOPLE.
HE CITED SOME OF THE INTERESTING FEATURES IN THE DESIGN OF THE CULTURAL CENTRE.
FIRST. THE CABLE ROOF STRUCTURE. MR LEI SAID CONTRARY TO COMMON BELIEF. THE ROOF STRUCTURE WAS NEITHER PRE- NOR POST-TENSIONED AND ONCE STRUNG WAS AN EXTREMELY RIGID STRUCTURE.
"THIS IS PARTICULARLY SUITABLE TO LARGE SPAN. FREE FORM SKIN STRUCTURE." HE SAID.
"THE ROOF IS THE LARGEST UNINTERRUPTED SURFACE IN HONG KONG." HE ADDED.
’ MR LEI ADDED THAT THE CULTURAL CENTRE UTILISED 11.041 METRES OF CABLES AND THE LONGEST WAS 85 METRES.
ON THE TILE CLADING. MR LEI SAID THE COLOUR. SHAPE AND ARRANGEMENT OF THE TILING GAVE PEOPLE A SUBTLE FEELING OF SURPRISE AS THE SHADE AND PATTERN CHANGED ACCORDING TO INTENSITY OF LIGHT. THE TIME OF THE DAY AND THEREFORE THE DIFFERENT ANGLES OF LIGHT AND THE DISTANCE AND DIRECTION OF THE VIEW POINT.
THE TILED AREA IS ABOUT 5.000 SQUARE METRES.
THE THIRD INTERESTING FEATURE IS THE CONCERT HALL WHICH CAN BE ADJUSTED TO SUIT DIFFERENT ACOUSTIC REQUIREMENTS FOR DIFFERENT PERFORMANCES.
MR LEI SAID THE CULTURAL CENTRE WAS ALSO DESIGNED AS A PUBLIC AMENITY.
WHEN THE MUSEUM OF ART. THE PIAZZA AND THE LANDSCAPE BETWEEN THE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER AND THE AUDITORIA BUILDING ARE COMPLETED. PEOPLE WILL BE ABLE TO WALK ALONG THE WATERFRONT FROM JORDAN ROAD FERRY PIER TO THE HONG KONG COLISEUM IN HUNG HOM AND THE CULTURAL CENTRE. WHICH IS LOCATED IN THE AREA. WILL BECOME ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR SPOTS FOR HONG KONG PEOPLE.
MR LEI SAID THE CULTURAL CENTRE WAS THE RESULT OF MANY YEARS OF HARD WORK BY A NUMBER OF PROFESSIONALS. BOTH WITHIN AND OUTSIDE THE GOVERNMENT.
/THERE HAD .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2<t, 1989
THERE HAD ALSO BEEN CLOSE CONSULTATION AND LIAISON WITH NO FEWER THAN 15 GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS DURING THE ENTIRE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PERIOD.
DESCRIBING HIS DEPARTMENT AS "AN AGENCY HANDLING WIDE RANGING PUBLIC BUILDING PROGRAMMES". MR LEI SAID THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT WAS NOT SIMPLY JUST THE ARCHITECTS BUT WAS IN FACT ALSO THE GOVERNMENT’S TECHNICAL ADVISER. PROJECT MANAGER AND SUPERVISOR. AS WELL AS ITS MULTI-DISCIPLINARY PROFESSIONAL CONSULTANT.
HE SAID THE DEPARTMENT HAD AT THIS POINT OF TIME ABOUT 1.000 PROJECTS. LARGE AND SMALL. IN VARIOUS STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT. THE TOTAL ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST, IN 1989 PRICES, WAS ABOUT S37.OOO MILLION.
THESE PROJECTS GENERATED ABOUT 700 CONTRACTS AT ANY ONE TIME. HE ADDED.
ON MAINTENANCE WORK. THE DIRECTOR SAID THE DEPARTMENT WAS CURRENTLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF OVER 6.000 BUILDINGS.
ITS DAY TO DAY MAINTENANCE WORK GENERATED ABOUT 200.000 WORKS ORDERS A YEAR. HE ADDED.
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FAREWELL PARADE FOR COMMISSIONER OF POLICE *****
HUNDREDS OF POLICE OFFICERS. EVERY VARIETY OF POLICE VEHICLE. POLICE DOGS AND EVEN HELICOPTERS COURTESY OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE -- WERE MUSTERED TODAY (FRIDAY) FOR A SPECTACULAR FAREWELL PARADE FOR RETIRING COMMISSIONER OF POLICE. MR RAYMON ANNING.
THE PARADE. HELD AT THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL. WAS FULL OF EXCITING SURPRISES. NOT THE LEAST BEING A PRECISION-TIMED AIR-BORNE TRIBUTE AS HELICOPTERS FLEW INTO VIEW. ONE TRAILING THE FORCE STANDARD.
THERE WAS ALSO AN UNEXPECTED PRESENTATION OF A MAGNIFICENT SILVER AND MALACCA WOOD COMMISSIONER’S CANE FOR MR ANNING AND A BOUQUET OF FLOWERS FOR MRS ANNING.
THE PARADE ITSELF INCORPORATED MANY NEW AND UNEXPECTED DRILL MOVEMENTS ORCHESTRATED FOR THE OCCASION BY STAFF OFFICER. CENTRAL TRAINING SERVICES DIVISION. MR BILL FULLERTON.
PARTICULARLY IMPRESSIVE AMONG THESE WAS THE FINALE WHICH GRADUALLY DISPERSED EVERYONE ON PARADE LEAVING MR ANNING SYMBOLICALLY AS THE LONE FIGURE.
/THE SPECTACULAR.........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
14
THE SPECTACULAR FAREWELL CEREMONY HAD BEGUN SOME 45 MINUTES EARLIER WITH MR ANNING'S ARRIVAL AT PTS WHERE HE WAS GREETED AT THE MAIN GATE BY A QUARTER GUARD AND A TRUMPETER WHO SOUNDED "COMMISSIONER’S SALUTE".
ON THE DRILL SQUARE THE PARADE ITSELF WAS FORMED OF REPRESENTATIVE CONTINGENTS FROM ALL FOUR REGIONS. THE POLICE TACTICAL UNIT. THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY POLICE FORCE AND THE POLICE CADET SCHOOL ALONG WITH SEVEN RECRUIT CONSTABLE SQUADS FROM THE POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL.
MUSIC WAS PROVIDED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE BANDS AUGMENTED BY MEMBERS OF THE AUXILIARY POLICE BAND.
ALSO ON PARADE WERE FOUR HANDLERS AND FOUR DOGS FROM THE POLICE DOG UNIT. ADDITIONALLY ALL TYPES OF POLICE VEHICLES WERE FEATURED EITHER AS PART OF A STATIC DISPLAY OR TAKING PART IN THE PARADE ITSELF AND IN THE SUBSEQUENT MARCH AND DRIVE PAST.
IN A SHORT ADDRESS MR ANN ING SAID IT HAD BEEN A GREAT PRIVILEGE AND PLEASURE TO COMMAND THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE.
"BUT I HAVE NEVER FELT MORE PROUD OF THE FORCE THEN I DO TODAY." HE ADDED. COMPLIMENTING ALL THOSE TAKING PART IN THEIR FIRST-CLASS STANDARD OF DRILL AND IMPRESSIVE BEARING.
"NOBODY CAN FORETELL THE FUTURE AND THERE MAY BE UPS AND DOWNS IN THE TIME AHEAD. BUT I AM SURE THAT ASIA'S FINEST WILL CONTINUE TO PROVIDE AN EFFICIENT POLICE FORCE AND SERVE THE COMMUNITY IN THE FUTURE AS IT HAS IN THE PAST."
MR ANN ING SAID THAT FINALLY. ON BEHALF OF HIS WIFE AND HIMSELF. HE WISHED TO TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO WISH ALL OFFICERS AND THEIR FAMILIES EVERY SUCCESS AND GOOD FORTUNE IN THE FUTURE.
AFTER A COFFEE BREAK MR AND MRS ANN ING LEFT THE CROWN CAR AND REAPPEARED IN AN OPEN-TOP LAND ROVER TO BE TOWED OUT OF PTS ALONG ROUTES LINED WITH POLICE OFFICERS STRAINS OF AULD LANG SYNE.
SCENE IN A CEREMONIALLY AND TO THE
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LADY WILSON INAUGURATES 'CASTLE OF UNITY' PROJECT »*»»*»
A "CASTLE OF UNITY" SYMBOLISING THE CONCERTED EFFORT OF MANY PEOPLE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE WHOLE COMMUNITY WILL BE ERECTED AT THE KOWLOON PARK IN TSIM SHA TSUI.
SPEAKING AT AN INAUGURATION CEREMONY AT THE URBAN COUNCIL CHAMBERS TODAY (FRIDAY). LADY WILSON SAID THAT THE IMAGINATIVE IDEA OF BUILDING A VICTORIAN-STYLE CASTLE WAS A JOINT VENTURE BETWEEN THE COMMUNITY CHEST AND THE URBAN COUNCIL.
/"THE URBAN .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
"THE URBAN COUNCIL IS NOT ONLY CONTRIBUTING HANDSOMELY TO THE WORK OF THE COMMUNITY CHEST . IT IS ALSO PROVIDING THE CHILDREN OF KOWLOON WITH A SPLENDID NEW AREA FOR PLAY." LADY WILSON SAID.
"THE CASTLE WILL BE MORE THAN JUST A PLAYTHING. IT WILL SYMBOLISE. WITH EVERY BRICK AND EVERY CONTRIBUTION, HOW THE EFFORTS OF MANY. MANY PEOPLE GO INTO THE WORK THE CHEST DOES. FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE WHOLE COMMUNITY. IT IS A TRUE CASTLE OF UNITY." SHE SAID.
MODELLING UPON THE CASTLE IN THE KOWLOON PARK ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY YEARS AGO. THE CASTLE WILL BE BUILT AT THE PARK’S CREATIVE PLAYGROUND TO ENHANCE THE EXISTING FACILITIES FOR CHILDREN VISITING THE PARK.
THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CASTLE WILL BE JOINTLY FUNDED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE COMMUNITY CHEST AND THE TOTAL COST IS ESTIMATED AT SI MILLION.
THE COMMUNITY CHEST’S SHARE OF FUNDING WILL COME FROM DONATIONS FROM 200 PEOPLE. IN RECOGNITION OF THE GOOD DEED OF THE COMMUNITY-SPIRITED CITIZENS.THE NAME OF EACH DONOR WILL BE PERMANENTLY INSCRIBED ONTO A BRONZE PLAQUE TO BE FIXED ONTO THE CASTLE’S INSIDE WALI. TO COMMEMORATE THIS WORTHY CAUSE.
AT TODAY'S CEREMONY. LADY WILSON TOOK THE LEAD TO SHOW HER SUPPORT BY SIGNING THE FIRST NAME. THIS WAS FOLLOWED BY THE SIGNING Oi A LETTER OF INTENT BY THE URBAN COUNCIL CHAIRMAN. MR H.M.G. IORSGATE AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMUNITY CHEST’S EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. MR JAMES KUNG.
ALSO ATTENDING TODAY'S CEREMONY WERE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE URBAN COUNCIL'S RECREATION SELECT COMMITTEE. DR SAMUEL WONG. THE DIRECTOR OF URBAN SERVICES. MR JAMES SO. THE CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMUNITY CHEST. MRS ANITA CHAN AND THE "COMMUNITY FOR THE CHEST" COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN. MRS NORIKO BARROW.
Till "CASTLE OF UNITY" IS THE FOCAL POINT OF A FUND RAISING PROGRAMME TO BE TELECAST LIVE ON ATV HOME CHANNEL ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 261 at 8.35 PM.
THE CASTLE IS DESIGNED BY MR. KENNETH KO. A WELL-KNOWN DESIGNER. A LOCAL DEVELOPER. HIP HING CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LTD. HAS AGREED TO BUILD IT AT COST AS A GESTURE OF GOODWILL TO SUPPORT THE PROJ ECT.
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/16........
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 24. 1989
- 16 -
ENHANCED PROTECTION OF CONFIDENTIALITY FOR SURVEY DATA SOUGHT
A BILL GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY) IS INTENDED TO ENHANCE THE PROTECTION OF CONFIDENTIALITY AFFORDED TO SURVEY DATA PROVIDED TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 IS DUE TO BE INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SHORTLY.
’’THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS ORDINANCE SEEK TO STRENGTHEN THE PROTECTION ON THE CONFIDENTIALITY OF INDIVIDUAL DATA SUPPLIED BY SURVEY RESPONDENTS AND THE REGULATION OF THE CONDUCT OF SURVEY ENUMERATORS.” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE DEPARTMENT AT PRESENT CONDUCTED BOTH MANDATORY STATISTICAL SURVEYS' AND VOLUNTARY STATISTICAL SURVEYS.
"IN MANDATORY STATISTICAL SURVEYS. RESPONSE IS COMPULSORY.
"IN VOLUNTARY STATISTICAL SURVEYS, RESPONDENTS ARE NOT OBLIGED. LEGALLY. TO PROVIDE THE INFORMATION, BUT THEIR CO-OPERATION CAN USUALLY BE OBTAINED.
"THIS PRACTICE OF CONDUCTING SURVEYS WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED AFTER AMENDMENT OF THE ORDINANCE.” HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS ORDINANCE, ENACTED IN 1978. HAD PROVISIONS REGARDING CONFIDENTIALITY PROTECTION OF INDIVIDUAL DATA IN RESPECT OF MANDATORY STATISTICAL SURVEYS.
"PROTECTION OF CONFIDENTIALITY OF DATA IN THE CASE OF VOLUNTARY STATISTICAL SURVEY DEPENDS MAINLY ON ADMINISTRATIVE MEANS.
"INCORPORATION OF VOLUNTARY STATISTICAL SURVEYS INTO THE ORDINANCE WILL ENABLE BOTH KINDS OF SURVEYS TO BE SUBJECT TO THE SAME CONFIDENTIALITY PROVISIONS.” HE SAID.
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CONTROL OF DISPLAY OF FARE TABLES IN TAXIS
AMENDMENT REGULATIONS TO EMPOWER THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT TO CONTROL THE DISPLAY OF FARE TABLES INSIDE TAXIS AS A MEASURE TO REDUCE DISPUTES BETWEEN TAXI DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS ARE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT THAT THE PROPER DISPLAY OF FARE TABLES INSIDE TAXIS WOULD HELP TO INFORM PASSENGERS OF THE APPROVED FARE SCALES AND THUS REDUCE DISPUTES OVER FARES.
/THE EXISTING .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2U, 1989
17 -
THE EXISTING ROAD TRAFFIC (PUBLIC SERVICE VEHICLES) REGULATIONS REQUIRE FARE TABLES TO BE DISPLAYED IN TAXIS BUT THERE IS NO PROVISION TO SPECIFY THEIR DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND POSITIONING.
THE ROAD TRAFFIC (PUBLIC SERVICE VEHICLES) (AMENDMENT) (NO. 4) REGULATIONS 1989 PROVIDE THAT FARE TABLES AND SIGNS INDICATING THE SERVICES PROVIDED IN TAXIS AND DESTINATION INDICATORS AND FARE CARDS IN PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES SHOULD BE OF A DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION SPECIFIED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT.
IN ADDITION, THE FARE TABLES AND SIGNS SHOULD BE POSITIONED AS SPECIFIED BY THE COMMISSIONER.
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL CONSULT THE TRADE ON THE SPECIFICATIONS AND THE AMENDMENT REGULATIONS WILL COME INTO EFFECT ON AN APPOINTED DAY AFTER ALLOWING SOME TIME FOR THE TRADE TO COMPLY WITH THE SPECIFICATIONS.
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OPERATIONS AGAINST LITTERERS ♦ * ♦ ♦
A TOTAL OF 4.724 SUMMONSES HAD BEEN ISSUED DURING A SERIES OF ANTI-LITTER BLITZ OPERATIONS BY VARIOUS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS IN THE PAST MONTH.
ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS AGAINST LITTERERS HAD BEEN STEPPED UP STARTING MID-OCTOBER TO TIE IN WITH THE PUBLICITY ON PENALTY FOR LITTERING LAUNCHED BY THE JOINT URBAN COUNCIL/REGTONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE.
"WHILE EMPHASISING EDUCATION AND A POSITIVE APPROACH IN APPEALING TO THE PUBLIC TO KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN. WE FEEL THAT ENFORCEMENT ACTION SHOULD ALSO BE STRENGTHENED AS A DETERRENT." A SPOKESMAN FOR THE COMMITTEE SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
DURING THE MONTH-LONG OPERATIONS, A TOTAL OF 77 SPECIAL TASK FORCE TEAMS HAD BEEN FORMED TO PATROL LITTER BLACK SPOTS SUCH AS BUS STOPS, AND HAWKER AND PICNIC AREAS.
THE SUMMONSES ISSUED DURING THIS PERIOD REPRESENTED AN INCREASE OF 23.6 PER CENT OVER THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WISHING TO REPORT LITTERING CASES OR LODGE COMPLAINTS CAN CALL THE REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 0-4145555 OR THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 5-8680000.
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/18 .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24,
1989
- 18 -
MONG KoK DISTRICT FESTIVAL TO START NEXT MONTH
♦ ♦ t ♦ »
THE SECOND MONG KOK DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL
MONTH WITH A WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES CATERING FOR
START EARLY NEXT ALL AGE GROUPS.
IT WILL BEGIN ON DECEMBER 8 WITH A CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR LIGHTING SWITCH-ON CEREMONY, TO BE FOLLOWED BY A VARIETY SHOW AT MACPHERSON PLAYGROUND.
THE FESTIVAL WILL OFFER MORE THAN 20 EVENTS, TO BE HELD MAINLY IN DECEMBER. IT WILL CLOSE ON FEBRUARY 16 WITH A SPECIAL SHOW TO BE BROADCAST LIVE ON HK-TVB'S “ENJOY YOURSELF TONIGHT” PROGRAMME.
SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (FRIDAY), THE PRESIDENT OF THE MONG KOK FESTIVAL CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE, MR KONG WING-ON, SAID THE FESTIVAL SIGNIFIED THE COMMON GOAL OF BUILDING A PROSPEROUS AND STABLE COMMUNITY IN MONG KOK.
THE FESTIVAL'S THEME - "BUILDING THE COMMUNITY OF MONG KOK TOGETHER, AND ENJOYING PEACE. STABILITY AND PROSPERITY” - REFLECTED THE WISH OF EVERY MONG KOK RESIDENT, HE NOTED.
“MONG KOK IS A SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE FOR PEOPLE FROM DIFFERENT WALKS OF LIFE. THE PROSPERITY OF THE DISTRICT REFLECTS THE ECONOMIC CONDITION OF THE TERRITORY AS A WHOLE,” HE SAID.
MR KONG HOPED THAT THE MESSAGE OF THE FESTIVAL WOULD BE SPREAD TO THE REST OF THE POPULATION.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE MONG KOK FESTIVAL CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE, MR CHOW CHUN-FAI, SAID THE FESTIVAL’S PROGRAMME HAD BEEN CAREFULLY COMPILED FOR DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE FESTIVAL, BEING ORGANISED BY THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD, AIMED AT PROMOTING THE IDENTITY OF THE DISTRICT BOARD AND FOSTERING A SENSE OF BELONGING AMONG LOCAL RESIDENTS.
THE OTHER OBJECTIVES WERE STRENGTHENING THE DISTRICT BOARD’S TIES WITH THE SIX AREA COMMITTEES AND OTHER ORGANISATIONS IN MONG KOK, AS WELL AS PROMOTING THE ECONOMY AND PROSPERITY OF THE DISTRICT, MR CHOW SAID.
THE FESTIVAL’S PROGRAMME INCLUDES SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY, OUTINGS FOR YOUNGSTERS, AS WELL AS CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR ALL RESIDENTS IN THE DISTRICT.
FOR THE ELDERLY, THERE WILL BE AN “EYE CARE CAMPAIGN" RUNNING FROM DECEMBER 19 TO JANUARY 5, A “FUN DAY" ON DECEMBER 17 AT MONG KOK STADIUM, AND A "CHINESE OPERA NIGHT" THE FOLLOWING DAY AT CHAN HING SOCIAL SERVICES CENTRE.
FOR YOUNG PEOPLE, THERE WILL BE A ’’YOUTH DAY CAMP" AT LEI YUE MUN PARK HOLIDAY VILLAGE ON DECEMBER 14 AND A "NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE" AT THE HALL OF QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL.
/HIGHLIGHTS OF ......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
- 19 -
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FESTIVAL WILL BE AN EXHIBITION ON PAINTINGS BY CONTEMPORARY WOMEN ARTISTS TO BE HELD AT THE FA YUEN STREET URBAN COUNCI I. COMPLEX FROM DECEMBER 11 TO 15. AND PERFORMANCES BY THE HONG KONG DANCE COMPANY AND THE HONG KONG CHINESE ORCHESTRA ON DECEMBER 15 AND DECEMBER 23 RESPECTIVELY AT THE CHAN HING SOCIAL SERVICES CENTRE.
IN SUPPORT OF THE MONG KOK FESTIVAL. THE DISTRICT'S SIX AREA COMMITTEES WILL ORGANISE ACTIVITIES IN THEIR AREAS THROUGHOUT THE FESTIVAL PERIOD. THEY WILL ALSO HOLD A JOINT DAY CAMP ON DECEMBER 10 AT THE LEI YUE MUN PARK HOLIDAY VILLAGE.
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SPORTS CARNIVAL IN CENTRAL ON SUNDAY * t » » *
A LARGE-SCALE SPORTS CARNIVAL ORGANISED AS PART OF THE CURRENT CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL BE HELD AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT IN CENTRAL ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26).
THERE WILL BE DRUM BAND PERFORMANCES, DANCING, ACROBATIC AND CYCLING DEMONSTRATIONS. SEDAN CHAIR AND RICKSHAW RACES. AS WELL AS TELEMATCHES FOR THE DISTRICT’S SIX AREA COMMITTEES.
PERFORMING GROUPS WILL INCLUDE THOSE FROM THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S ROYAL REGIMENT AND TRUE LIGHT GIRLS COLLEGE.
A MINI TRAIN AND A HUGE INFLATED ANIMAL WILL BE SET UP AT THE VENUE FOR CHILDREN.
OMELCO MEMBER. MISS MARIA TAM. AND THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE. MR AUGUSTINE CHUI, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 2.30 PM.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE MR LIU LIT-FOR, DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN MR AMBROSE LAU. DISTRICT OFFICER MR STEPHEN FISHER AND DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER MR LEUNG SIK-WAH.
THE CARNIVAL IS BEING JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE. THE DISTRICT BOARD. THE DISTRICT OFFICE, THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS ASSOCIATION.
MEANWHILE. OTHER EVENTS FOR THE FINAL WEEK OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL INCLUDE CANTONESE OPERA SHOW AT THE CITY HALL CONCERT HALL ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 30) EVENING AND ORIENTEERING ACTIVITY AT THE CHATER GARDEN ON DECEMBER 2 (SATURDAY). BEGINNING AT 2 PM.
/THE FESTIVAL
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
20
THE FESTIVAL WILL CLOSE ON SUNDAY (DECEMBER 3). THERE WILL BE A CARNIVAL AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT IN CENTRAL AND A VARIETY SHOW AT THE FORBES STREET PLAYGROUND IN WESTERN DISTRICT. BOTH BEGINNING AT 2 PM: AS WELL AS AN "ENTERTAINMENT NITE" AT THE CITY HALL CONCERT HALL, BEGINNING AT 8 PM.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SPORTS CARNIVAL OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26) AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT IN CENTRAL.
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TRAFFIC SAFETY DAY ON LANTAU
♦ » * t *
A TRAFFIC SAFETY DAY WILL BE HELD AT THE NEW TERRITORIES HEUNG YEE KUK SOUTHERN DISTRICT SECONDARY SCHOOL IN MUI WO, LANTAU. ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26).
THERE WILL BE FIRST AID DEMONSTRATIONS, AN EXHIBITION OF ROAD SAFETY MATERIALS. POP MUSIC BY THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES BAND, AND GAME STALLS. THE FUNCTION WILL START AT 1 PM AND ADMISSION IS FREE.
ORGANISED FOR THE FIRST TIME BY THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE. THE TRAFFIC SAFETY DAY AIMS AT ALERTING ISLANDERS. BOTH DRIVERS AND PEDESTRIANS, TO THE IMPORTANCE OF OBSERVING TRAFFIC REGULATIONS.
COLOURFUL BOOKMARKS AND CALENDAR CARDS PREPARED BY THE COMMITTEE BEARING THE SLOGAN "TRAFFIC SAFETY ON THE ISLANDS IS GOOD FOR EVERYONE" WILL ALSO BE DISTRIBUTED AS SOUVENIRS.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR LAM WAI-KEUNG; DISTRICT OFFICER, MR KIM SALKELD; AND ISLANDS POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR WILLIAM WORRAL.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE ISLANDS DISTRICT TRAFFIC SAFETY DAY TO BE HELD AT THE NEW TERRITORIES HEUNG YEE KUK SOUTHERN DISTRICT SECONDARY SCHOOL IN MUI WO, LANTAU ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26). BEGINNING AT 1 PM.
A PRESS LAUNCH. MD 1. WILL LEAVE THE KOWLOON PUBLIC PIER, TSIM SHA TSUI. AT 11.45 AM FOR MUI WO.
- 0 -
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 24. 1989
- 21
CARNIVAL TO PROMOTE CLEAN ENVIRONMENT * * * t t
A CARNIVAL AND A "YOUTH SPECTACULAR" WILL BE HELI) AT THE MAPLE STREET PLAYGROUND IN SHAM SHUI PO ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26) AFTERNOON TO. DRIVE HOME THE CLEAN HONG KONG MESSAGE.
ORGANISED BY THE WORKING GROUP ON KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN CAMPAIGN UNDER THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD, THE EVENT AIMS AT ENHANCING RESIDENTS’ AWARENESS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF A CLEAN ENVIRONMENT. IT WILL ALSO EMPHASISE THE ROLE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN MAINTAINING ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE.
THE EVENT WILL MAINLY COMPRISE GAMES STALLS CARRYING THE CLEAN HONG KONG MESSAGE. TO BE RUN BY LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND SCHOOLS FROM 2 PM TO 5 PM. THERE WILL BE A COMPETITION TO SELECT THE STALL HAVING THE BEST DESIGN.
BEFORE THE CARNIVAL BEGINS. A DRAWING COMPETITION WILL BE HELD FOR CHILDREN AGED 14 OR UNDER.
THIS WILL BE FOLLOWED BY A PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY AT WHICH AWARDS WILL BE PRESENTED TO WINNERS OF THE DRAWING COMPETITION, THE GAMES STALL DESIGN COMPETITION. AND A PRIVATE BUILDING CLEANLINESS COMPETITION HELD EARLIER IN THE DISTRICT.
THOSE OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE EVENT WILL INCLUDE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR TAI TUNG-NGOK: SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT OFFICER. MR ALAN FUNG; AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR, MR CHUNG PUI-LAM.
AFTER THE CEREMONY PERFORMANCES WILL BE GIVEN BY POPULAR SINGERS.
FREE GIFTS WILL ALSO BE DISTRIBUTED AT THE VENUE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE "KEEP SHAM SHUI PO CLEAN CARNIVAL AND YOUTH SPECTACULAR". AND THE PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT 2.30 PM. AT THE MAPLE STREET PLAYGROUND ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26).
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/22........
FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 24. 1989
- 22 -
STUDENTS INVITED TO JOIN INTERNATIONAL ART CONTEST ♦ * * * ♦
PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS WHO ARE TALENTED IN DRAWING AND PAINTING ARE INVITED TO ENTER FOR THE EIGHTH INTERNATIONAL ART EXHIBITION FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE TO BE HELD IN HYVINKAS. FINLAND. NEXT YEAR.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD IN MAY AND LOCAL SCHOOL CHILDREN AGED 18 AND UNDER ARE ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE.
IT IS ORGANISED BY THE ART CENTRE FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE MAINTAINED BY THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND THE TOWN OF HYVINKAS.
THE THEME FOR ENTRIES IN THE FORM OF DRAWING. PAINTING. PRINT-MAKING. COLLAGE OR ANY OTHER TWO-DIMENSIONAL WORK IS "MY HOME AREA ENVIRONMENT".
THERE WILL BE FIVE AGE GROUPS IN THE CONTEST. MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES WILL BE AWARDED TO ENTRIES SELECTED FOR EXHIBITION.
STUDENTS ARE ADVISED TO SEND THEIR ENTRIES TO THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT THROUGH THEIR SCHOOL HEADS FOR LOCAL SELECTION BEFORE JANUARY 5.
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LONG DISTANCE RUN FOR YAU TSIM RESIDENTS ♦ t ♦ t ♦
MORE THAN 200 YAU TSIM RESIDENTS WILL JOIN A LONG DISTANCE RUN ALONG THE TSIM SHA TSUI PROMENADE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26) MORNING.
PARTICIPANTS WILL BE DIVIDED INTO MEN’S, TEENAGERS’ AND WOMEN’S SECTIONS. AND WILL HAVE TO COVER 3,000 METRES.
THE RACE WILL BEGIN AT 9.30 AM, AND THE WINNER IN EACH SECTION WILL BE AWARDED A TROPHY.
THE EVENT HAS BEEN JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE YAU MA TEI AND TSIM SHA TSUI RECREATION AND SPORTS ASSOCIATION AND THE URBAN COUNCIL, WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD.
AMONG THOSE OFFICIATING AT A STARTING CEREMONY WILL BE ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MS MELODY WONG, AND CHAIRMAN OF YAU TSIM DISTRICT BOARD, MR YIP WAH.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE LONG DISTANCE RUN TO BE HELD AT THE TSIM SHA TSUI PROMENADE ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26). THE RACE WILL START AT 9 AM BEHIND THE NEW WORLD CENTRE AND PRESENTATION OF PRIZES WILL BE HELD IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE RACE IS FINISHED.
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/23 .......
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
MSB CHECKS BOTTLED DRINKING WATER REGULARLY * t t ♦ ♦
FOOD INSPECTORS OF THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH COLLECTED 12 SAMPLES OF BOTTLED DRINKING WATER FROM THE FOR TESTING.
TODAY (FRIDAY)
LOCAL MARKET
THIS ACTION FOLLOWED REPORTS FROM MACAU THAT TWO BRANDS OF BOTTLED DRINKING WATER FROM HONG KONG SUPPLIERS HAD BEEN FOUND TO BE CONTAMINATED.
TESTING RESULTS WILL BE MADE KNOWN TO THE PUBLIC POSSIBLE.
AS SOON AS
MEANWHILE. THE BRANCH IS SEEKING MORE INFORMATION FROM THE TWO DISTRIBUTORS CONCERNED.
THE HYGIENE ADVISER OF THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH. DR M.B. ALI. SAID BOTTLED DRINKING WATER AVAILABLE IN THE LOCAL MARKET HAS BEEN SUBJECT TO REGULAR CHECKS TO ENSURE THAT IT IS SAFE FOR DRINKING.
IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS. WE HAVE BEEN CARRYING OUT TESTS ON ABOUT 25 BRANDS OF BOTTLED DRINKING WATER ON SALE LOCALLY AND NONE OF THESE HAS PROVED TO BE UNSUITABLE FOR CONSUMPTION.
THESE INCLUDED 24 LOTS OF BOTTLED DRINKING WATER FROM THE DISTRIBUTORS CONCERNED.” DR ALI SAID.
TWO
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CHILDREN’S ARTS AND CRAFTS CARNIVAL IN POK FU LAM ♦ **♦*♦»
A CHILDREN’S CARNIVAL WITH STALL GAMES AND PERFORMANCES WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) FROM 2.30 PM TO 5.30 PM AT THE SKATING RINK IN CHI FU FA YUEN. POK FU LAM.
AS PART OF THE CURRENT SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL. IT WILL ALSO INCLUDE A NUMBER OF ARTS AND CRAFTS STALLS ON PAPER DOLL MAKING. WATER COLOUR DESIGNING. GLASS PAINTING AND OTHER FORMS OF ART CREATIONS.
THERE WILL BE PERFORMANCES BY ACTRESS SZE MING AND CHILD ACTORS LEE WING-HO AND LEE WING-HON. A MAGIC SHOW, A CLOWN SHOW. KUNG FU DEMONSTRATION AND A MIME BY THE FRINGE CLUB.
CHILDREN UNDER 12 YEARS OLD MAY ENTER A DRAWING COMPETITION AND EXPRESS THEIR ARTISTIC FLAIR ON ANY THEME.
ENROLMENT FOR THE COMPETITION. WHICH HAS A QUOTA OF 50 CHILDREN. WILL BE ACCEPTED ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS.
/’’THE CHILDREN’S........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
THE "CHILDREN'S ARTS AND CRAFTS CARNIVAL" IS BEING ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE AND THE URBAN COUNCIL. WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE, TO PROMOTE CHILDREN’S INTEREST IN ART. ADMISSION IS FREE.
OFFICIATING AT THE CARNIVAL’S OPENING AT 2.30 PM WILL BE THE SOUTHERN ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER. MR DAVID LEUNG; CHAIRMAN OF THE M DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGAN], 'NG COMMITTEE'S DISTRICT PROGRAMMES WORKING-GROUP, MR CHAN YAU-YUE; AND ASSISTANT CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT MANAGER I HONG KONG) OF THE URBAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR GRAY IP.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL CHILDREN'S ARTS AND CRAFTS CARNIVAL TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SATURDAY) FROM 2.30 PM TO 5.30 PM AT THE SKATING RINK IN CHI FU FA YUEN, POK FU LAM.
THE OPENING CEREMONY WILL BE HELD AT 2.30 PM.
- - 0 - -
FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION CARNIVAL AND VARIETY SHOW *****
FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION CARNIVAL TO BRING HOME THE MESSAGE ON
A FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION uknival iv dixihu h.l.
RESPONSIBLE PARENTHOOD WILL BE HELD ON DECEMBER 9 (SATURDAY) AT VICTORIA PARK. CAUSEWAY BAY, FROM 11 AM TO 4.30 PM.
THE CARNIVAL IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE. RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES.
THERE WILL BE ABOUT 30 GAMES STALLS WITH ATTRACTIVE PRIZES AND NINE FAMILY ACTIVITY STALLS.
WHILE THE GAMES STALLS OFFER INTERESTING GAMES ON THE THEMES OF GOOD PARENTING AND HOME SAFETY. THE FAMILY ACTIVITY STALLS PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR FAMILY MEMBERS TO SHARE THE FUN IN SUCH ACTIVITIES AS TAKING FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHS. MAKING HANDICRAFT AND DRAWING.
FREE GAMES COUPONS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO THE PUBLIC FROM TOMORROW (SATURDAY) AT THE SWD’S YOUTH OFFICES AND COMMUNITY CENTRES.
TWO EXHIBITIONS. ONE ON FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION AND THE OTHER ON OUTSTANDING PROJECTS OF THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH SCHEME AWARD, WILL BE STAGED AT THE CARNIVAL VENUE.
THE CARNIVAL WILL BE FOLLOWED BY A VARIETY SHOW BETWEEN 8 PM AND 9.30 PM AT THE PARK WITH PERFORMANCES BY POPULAR SINGERS AND ARTISTES.
ADMISSION TO THE CARNIVAL) AND VARIETY SHOW IS FREE OF CHARGE.
- 0 -
/?5
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
- 25 -
CAREERS INFORMATION CENTRE MOVES TO TUEN MUN * ♦ ♦ * ♦
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S CAREERS INFORMATION CENTRE IN TSUEN WAN HAS MOVED OFFICES TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE CENTRE NOW OPERATES FROM SECOND FLOOR, TAI HING GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 16 TSUN WEN ROAD, TUEN MUN.
IT IS EQUIPPED WITH A REFERENCE LIBRARY AND AN AUDIO-VISUAL UNIT TO PROVIDE YOUNG PEOPLE WITH THE MOST UP-TO-DATE CAREERS INFORMATION.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 0-4636855 AND 0-4636851.
THE DEPARTMENT’S CAREERS ADVISORY SERVICE ALSO RUNS THREE OTHER SUCH CENTRES IN WAN CHAI, TO KWA WAN AND SHA TIN TO ASSIST YOUNG PEOPLE TN CHOOSING A CAREER BEST SUITED TO THEIR TALENTS, INTERESTS AND ABILITIES.
CAREERS INFORMATION IS ALSO DISSEMINATED THROUGH VARIOUS PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY THE CAREERS ADVISORY SERVICE.
------0--------
FIRING PRACTICE IN DECEMBER » t * * t
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE HA TSUEN-CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON 15 DAYS NEXT MONTH.
THE PUBLIC HOISTED. FOLLOWING TAKE PLACE: DATE IS ARE WARNED NOT TO THE DATES AND ENTER TIMES THE AREA WHEN THAT FIRING TIME RED FLAGS PRACTICE ARE WILL
DECEMBER 1 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 2 (SATURDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 4 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 5 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 6 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 7 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 8 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 11 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 12 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 13 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 11.59 PM
DECEMBER 14 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 15 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 19 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
DECEMBER 20 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 11.59 PM
DECEMBER 21 (THURSDAY) 0 - - - • MIDNIGHT - 5 PM /26 .. ♦
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
SHA TIN SITE FOR PSPS DEVELOPMENT *****
THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT IS OFFERING FOR SALE BY TENDER A SITE IN MA ON SHAN TOWN CENTRE, SHA TIN, FOR PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION SCHEME DEVELOPMENT.
THE SITE IS LOCATED IN AREA 100 OF THE TOWN CENTRE AND COVERS ABOUT 5,300 SQUARE METRES.
IT IS FOR NON-INDUSTRIAL (EXCLUDING GODOWN AND CINEMA) PURPOSES.
THE CLOSING DATE FOR TENDERS IS NOON ON JANUARY 19.
TENDER FORMS, TENDER NOTICE AND CONDITIONS FOR THE LOT CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR. MURRAY BUILDING. GARDEN ROAD. HONG KONG: AND FROM THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICES KOWLOON, 10TH FLOOR, YAU MA TEI CARPARK BUILDING, 250 SHANGHAI STREET. KOWLOON. THE TENDER PLAN MAY ALSO BE INSPECTED THERE.
TENDER DOCUMENTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT ALL DISTRICT LANDS OFFICES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENT WORKS AT KENNEDY ROAD t * * ♦ t *
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT PROPOSES TO IMPROVE THE ALIGNMENT AND CAPACITY OF KENNEDY ROAD BETWEEN MONMOUTH TERRACE AND BORRETT ROAD, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
A NEW CARRIAGEWAY WILL ALSO BE BUILT CONNECTING KENNEDY ROAD, DIRECTLY TO THE WEST OF BOWEN DRIVE, WITH JUSTICE DRIVE AT ITS JUNCTION WITH SUPREME COURT ROAD.
THE PROPOSED WORKS INCLUDE:
♦ CONSTRUCTION OF A BRIDGE ACROSS THE VALLEY TO THE NORTH OF ELECTRIC HOUSE:
* WIDENING NEAR. BOTH ENDS OF THE PROPOSED BRIDGE AND RECONSTRUCTION OF THE EXISTING KENNEDY ROAD:
* CONSTRUCTION OF A FOUR-LANE CARRIAGEWAY CONNECTING KENNEDY ROAD TO JUSTICE DRIVE AT ITS JUNCTION WITH SUPREME COURT ROAD:
♦ CONSTRUCTION OF AN ACCESS ROAD FROM SUPREME COURT ROAD TO COLVIN HOUSE:
/♦ RECONSTRUCTION OF
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
* RECONSTRUCTION OF SECTIONS OF EXISTING CARRIAGEWAYS AND FOOTPATHS:
* CONSTRUCTION OF ASSOCIATED CARPARKING SPACES, FOOTPATHS, STAIRCASES AND RETAINING WALLS;
* ASSOCIATED DRAINAGE AND SLOPE WORKS; AND
* PERMANENT CLOSURE OF SECTIONS OF EXISTING CARRIAGEWAYS AND FOOTPATHS AND TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF A PORTION OF KENNEDY ROAD EAST OF ELECTRIC HOUSE.
A NOTICE ON THE PROPOSED WORKS WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY.
THE PLAN AND SCHEME MAY BE INSPECTED AT THE FOLLOWING GOVERNMENT OFFICES;
* CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, CENTRAL ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE. CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES. WEST WING, MAIN ENTRANCE LOBBY. HONG KONG;
* HONG KONG WEST DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, 19TH FLOOR. SOUTHORN CENTRE, 130 HENNESSY ROAD. WAN CHAI:
» CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE. GROUND FLOOR. HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, HONG KONG.
THOSE WISHING TO OBJECT TO THE PROPOSED WORKS SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT. CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES. EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR. LOWER ALBERT ROAD. HONG KONG NOT LATER THAN JANUARY 23.
------0--------
NEW ROADS TO BE BUILT IN TAI PO t ♦ t ♦ t
PLANNING TO
tiif TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT IS ROADS To Im^VE SlCULAR AND PEDESTRIAN CIRCULATION IN
BUILD
AREA I1
NEW OF
TAI PO.
THE NOWS are PART OE THE CONTINUING PROGRAMME FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TAJ PO NEW TOWN.
THE PROPOSED WORKS INVOLVE THE ^INSTRUCTION OF ROAD CONNECTING TING KOK ROAD AND ON PO ROAD TOGETHER FOOTPATHS, CYCLE TRACKS, LANDSCAPED AREAS AND A LA
A
A SECTION OF EXISTING FOOTPATH AND CYCLE TRACK ALONG ROAD WILL ALSO BE RECONSTRl'1 I ED.
VEHICULAR ASSOCIATED
TING KOK
/THE WORKS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
28
THE WORKS HAVE BEEN DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTION WILL BE SUPERVISED BY MAUNSELL CONSULTANTS ASIA LIMITED, CONSULTING ENGINEERS, ON BEHALF OF THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT.
A NOTICE CONCERNING 'HE PROPOSED WORKS WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
A PLAN SHOWING THE PROPOSED WORKS CAN BE SEEN AT THE FOLLOWING GOVERNMENT OFFICES:
* CENTRA), AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, CENTRAL ENQUIRY SUB-OFFICE, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, WEST WING, MAIN ENTRANCE LOBBY, HONG KONG;
» TAI PO DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE AND THE TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICE, TAI PO GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, TING KOK ROAD, TAI PO.
ANY PERSON WHO OBJECTS TO THE WORKS SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG. BY JANUARY 23.
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TENDERS INVITED FOR I,Al CHI KOK » ♦ » » »
ROAD IMPROVEMENT WORKS »
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT WILL IMPROVE A SECTION OF LAI CHI KOK ROAD IN ORDER TO INTRODUCE A TRAFFIC IMPROVEMENT SCHEME IN SHAM SHUT PO.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) SAID THAT THE PROJECT WOULD INVOLVE THE RECONSTRUCT)ON OF A SECTION OF LAI CHI KOK ROAD BETWEEN YEE KUK STREET EXTENSION AND TONG Ml ROAD AND ITS SIDE STREETS.
THE DEPARTMENT HAS DESIGNED THE WORKS AND WILL SUPERVISE THEIR CONSTRUCTION.
THE WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START EARLY NEXT YEAR AND BE COMPLETED IN MID 1991.
THE DEPARTMENT IS NOW INVITING TENDERS FOR THE PROJECT. A TENDER NOTICE WAS PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY.
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/29........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
- 29 -
PROPOSED LAYING OF SUBMARINE CABLES *****
THE GOVERNMENT INTENDS TO GRANT A WAYLEAVE TO A POWER COMPANY FOR THE LAYING OF SUBMARINE CABLES.
THE CHINA LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY INTENDS TO LAY THREE 132 KILOVOLT SUBMARINE CABLES WITHIN AN AREA OF APPROXIMATELY 366 HECTARES OF FORESHORE AND SEABED BETWEEN TUEN MUN AND SHAM SHUI KOK.
THIS IS TO PROVIDE AN INCREASED AND SECURED SUPPLY OF ELECTRICITY TO LANTAU ISLAND TO MEET THE RAPIDLY INCREASING DEMAND FOR ELECTRICITY.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREA AFFECTED WAS DESCRIBED IN A NOTICE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY). .A
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HE HAS AN INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED MAY SUBMIT A WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS AND LANDS ON OR BEFORE JANUARY 23 NEXT YEAR.
THE NOTICE OF SUCH OBJECTION SHALL DESCRIBE THE INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT OF THE OBJECTOR AND THF MANNER IN WHICH HE ALLEGES HE WILL BE AFFECTED.
-----o-----
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN CENTRAL t t t * t
U-TURN LOOP ROAD
CENTRAL WILL BE
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT THE ON HARCOURT ROAD OUTSIDE FAR EAST FINANCE CENTRE IN OPENED TO TRAFFIC FROM 10 AM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER *.6)
VEHICLES TRAVELLING ON WESTBOUND HARCOURT ROAD CAN MAKE USE OF THF NEW ROAD TO MAKF U-TURNS ONTO EASTBOUND HARCOURT ROAD.
AND
tup OTHER HAND GRAHAM STREET BETWEEN STAUNTON STREET
HOLLYWOOD Sad "as BEEN CLOSED TO TRAFFIC TO FACILITATE URGENT REPAIR
OF /X BURST SEWER.
THE CLOSURE WILL LAST FOR ABOUT THREE WEEKS.
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/30........
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1989
50
WATER CUT IN YUEN LONG
* t ♦ ♦
A'
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN YUEN LONG WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 9 AM TO 5 PM ON SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 26) TO FACILITATE WATERWORKS AT MA WANG ROAD, NEAR LONG PING ESTATE.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT THE PREMISES AT TUNG TAU INDUSTRIAL AREA, YUEN LONG INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, YEUNG UK TSUEN, LAM UK TSUEN, SAI TAU WAI, TUNG TAU TSUEN, CHUNG SAM WAI, FUK HING TSUEN, CHU WONG LING, NG UK TSUEN. TAI TSENG WAI, SHING UK TSUEN, MON TSENG WAI, SHA KIU HA TSUEN AND LONG PING ESTATE.
-----0------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
PROVISIONAL TRADE FIGURES FOR OCTOBER RELEASED ............. 1
CONSTRUCTIVE LINE IN MEETING POLLUTION WHITE PAPER -
COMMITMENTS .............................................. 4
DECLINE IN NUMBER OF INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS .................. 5
FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN TO START TOMORROW ................. 6
RTHK TRAFFIC CHANNEL BEGINS SERVICE ON MONDAY .............. 7
SOCIAL WORKER - A REWARDING PROFESSION ..................... 8
RETURN OF MIGRANTS WILL BE WELCOME ......................... 9
ELDERLY PEOPLE STILL FULL OF VITALITY ..................... 10
VISITORS TAKE LUNG FUNCTION TEST AT EXHIBITION ............ 11
CLEAN COUNTRYSIDE CONCERT TO BE HELD TOMORROW ............. 11
NEW MEDICAL LIBRARY IN QMH OPENS .......................... 12
KWAI TSING TO PROMOTE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY ................... 13
BOTTLED DRINKING WATER SAFE FOR CONSUMPTION ............... 14
TAI PO FISH CULTURE ZONE FACILITIES ON AGENDA ............. 14
ORIENTEERING COMPETITION IN SOUTHERN TOMORROW ............. 15
'BE A GOOD CITIZEN' STICKERS .............................. 1$
PROMOTING CIVIC EDUCATION THROUGH COMPUTER STUDIES ........ 16
ROAD SAFETY DAY TOMORROW IN TAI PO ........................ 17
SEMINAR ON YOUTH AND LEADERSHIP IN TAI PO ................. 17
NEW KMB ROUTE NO. 270 ..................................... 18
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON HK ISLAND................ 18
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SHAM SHUI PO
19
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 25, I 989
1
PROVISIONAL TRADE FIGURES FOR OCTOBER RELEASED
**■»**
THE MODEST PERFORMANCE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS CONTINUED TN OCTOBER, WHILE THE GROWTH IN RE-EXPORTS REMAINED SIGNIFICANT. THE GROWTH RATE OF IMPORTS WAS RELATIVELY MODERATE, IMPLYING THAT RETAINED IMPORTS CONTINUED TO BE ON A DECLINE.
THIS IS SHOWN TN THE PROVISIONAL TRADE FIGURES RELEASED TODAY (SATURDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS IN OCTOBER 1989 WAS #20,849 MILLION, $783 MILLION OR 3.9 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN OCTOBER 1988, WHILE THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS INCREASED BY $5,357 MILLION OR 20.1 PER CENT TO $31,985 MILLION.
THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS (DOMESTIC EXPORTS PLUS RE-EXPORTS), AT $52,834 MILLION IN OCTOBER 1989, WAS THUS $6,140 MILLION OR 13.1 PER CENT HIGHER THAN IN OCTOBER 1988.
THE VALUE OF IMPORTS GREW BY 6.5 PER CENT OR $2,993 MILLION OVER A YEAR EARLIER. TO $48,779 MILLION IN OCTOBER 1989.
AS THE GROWTH RATE OF IMPORTS WAS SLOWER THAN THAT OF TOTAL EXPORTS, A VISIBLE TRADE SURPLUS OF $4,055 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 8.3 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS. WAS RECORDED IN OCTOBER 1989.
THIS COMPARES WITH A SURPLUS OF $908 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 2.0 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, RECORDED IN OCTOBER 1988. THE SURPLUSES RECORDED IN OCTOBER WERE, IN PART, DUE TO SEASONAL FACTORS.
PUTTING THESE TRADE FIGURES IN PERSPECTIVE, THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS IN THE FIRST 10 MONTHS OF 1989 WAS $471,549 MILLION, MADE UP OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF $184,776 MILLION AND RE-EXPORTS OF $286,773 MILLION.
COMPARED WITH THE FIRST 10 MONTHS OF 1988, IN VALUE TERMS TOTAL EXPORTS GREW BY $75,534 MILLION OR 19.1 PER CENT, DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY $8,337 MILLION OR 4.7 PER CENT, AND RE-EXPORTS BY $67,197 MILLION OR 30.6 PER CENT. OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS GREW BY $68,620 MILLION OR 17.1 PER CENT, TO $469,009 MILLION.
A VISIBLE TRADE SURPLUS OF $2,540 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 0.5 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS. WAS RECORDED IN THE FIRST 10 MONTHS OF 1989. THIS COMPARES WITH A DEFICIT OF $4,374 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 1.1 PER CENT OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, RECORDED IN THE FIRST 10 MONTHS OF 1988.
/COMMENTING ON .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
2
COMMENTING ON THESE FIGURES. A GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT SPOKESMAN SA(I) THAT THE PERFORMANCE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS HAD REMAINED MODEST SINCE MAY.
THE YEAR-ON-YEAR GROWTH RATES IN VALUE TERMS OF EXPORTS IN RECENT MONTHS WERE: 1.8 PER CENT IN JULY. 2.7 1’ER AUGUST. -2.2 PFR CENT IN SEPTEMBER. AND 3.9 PER CENT IN
DOMESTIC CENT IN OCTOBER.
AFTER DISCOUNTING A CORRESPONDING PRICE INCREASE OF AROUND 3 PER CENT, THERE WAS GENERALLY LITTLE GROWTH IN REAL TERMS.
ON THE OTHER HAND. EVEN AMIDST SOME DECELERATION IN RECENT MONTH THE GROWTH RATE OF RE-EXPORTS WAS STILL SIGNIFICANT. RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN. IN PARTICULAR. HAD PROBABLY CONTINUED TO SHOW STRONG GROWTH.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT. ON A YEAR-ON-YEAR COMPARISON, THE VALUE OF RETAINED IMPORTS HAD BEEN ON A SIGNIFICANT DECLINE FOR SEVERAL MONTHS. THIS SUGGESTED THAT DOMESTIC DEMAND WAS CONTINUING TO SLACKEN.
/TRADE FIGURES .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
3
TRADE FIGURES-FOR OCTOBER. 1989
The Census and Statistics Department has released the rollowing provisional merchandise trade figures for October:-
MERCHANDISE: Domestic Exports : $20,849 million
Re-exr»orts $31,985 million
Total Exports : $52,834 million
Imports : $48,779 million
Trade balance : . $4,055 million
[in surplus]
COMPARATIVE FIGURES
Latest 3 months Aug 89 to Oct 89 HK$'Mn. Aug 88 to Oct 88 HK$ Mn. Increase .
HKS Mn. %
Domestic Exports 61,615 60,686 929 1.5
Re-exports 94.246 78,280 15,966 20.4
Total Exports 155,861 138,966 16,895 12.2
Imports 143,663 134,304 9,359 7.0
Trade balance 12,198 4,662 7,536
Same month last year October October Increase
1989 1988
HK$ Mn. HKS Mn. HKS Mn. 'O
Domestic Exports 20,849 20.066 783 3.9
It of Total Exports) (39.5%) (43.0%)
Re-exports 31,985 26,628 5,357 20.1
Total Exports 52,834 46,694 6,140 13.1
Imports 48,779 45,786 2,993 6.5
Trade balance 4.055 908 3,147
Last month October September Increase
1989 1939
HK$ Hn. HKS Mn. HKS Mn. %
Domestic Exports 20,849 19.542 1,307 6.7
(X of Total Exports) (39.5%) (39.1%)
Re-exports 31.985 30,435 1,550 5.1
Total Exports 52.834 49.977 2,857 5.7
Imports 48,779 46,908 1,871 4.0
Trade balance 4.055 3,069 986
Jan-Oct Jan-Oct Increase
Calendar year to-date 1989 1988
HK$ Mn. HKS Mn. HKS Mn. %
Domestic Exports 184,776 176,439 3,337 4.7
(% of Total Exports) (39.2%) (44.6%)
Re-exports 286,773 219,576 67,197 30.6
Total Exports 471.549 396,015 75,534 19.1
Imports 469,009 400.389 68,620 17.1
Trade balance 2,540 -4.374 6,914
Nov 88 to Nov 87 to Increase
Last 12 months Oct 89 Oct 88
HKS Mn. HKS Mn. HKS Hn. %
Domestic Exports 226,001 212,366 13.635 6.4
Re-exports 342,603 256,193 86.405 33.7
Total Exports 568.604 468,564 100.040 21.4
Imports 567,418 473.477 93,941 19.8
Trade balance 1 , 136 -4.913 6,099
24th November, 1989
CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT
M ....
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
CONSTRUCTIVE LINE IN MEETING POLLUTION WRITE PAPER COMMITMENTS
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) IS LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVE WAYS OF MEETING THE COMMITMENTS IN THE WHITE PAPER ON POLLUTION WHICH WOULD REQUIRE LESS STAFF BECAUSE OF THE CLAMP-DOWN ON RECRUITMENT IN THE CIVIL SERVICE. THE DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION. DR STUART REED. SAID THIS (SATURDAY) EVENING.
SPEAKING AT THE ANNUAL DINNER OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS. DR REED REFERRED TO THE GOVERNMENT’S ANNOUNCEMENT THAT THERE WOULD BE RESOLUTE ACTION TO TRIM GROWTH IN THE CIVIL SERVICE TO TWO PER CENT PER YEAR.
DR REED SAID HE WOULD EXPECT RATHER MORE GENEROUS TREATMENT FOR HIS DEPARTMENT. SINCE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION HAD BEEN IDENTIFIED AS A PRIORITY AREA FOR GOVERNMENT ACTION.
"BUT BEING REALISTIC. I CANNOT EXPECT THAT THE RESOURCES WILL BE PROVIDED FOR EVERYTHING THAT WE NEED TO DO." HE SAID.
IN ORDER TO CARRY OUT THE PROGRAMMES IN THE WHITE PAPER ON POLLUTION. DR REED SAID MORE DIRECT AND SIMPLE WAYS WOULD HAVE TO BE ADOPTED IF THE REQUIREMENT FOR ADDITIONAL STAFF WERE TO BE REDUCED TO THE MINIMUM. BUT HE WARNED THAT THIS APPROACH WOULD REQUIRE GREATER POLITICAL WILL AND MORE CO-OPERATION FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR.
GIVING EXAMPLES OF ALTERNATIVES, DR REED SAID THAT THE BAN ON LIVESTOCK KEEPING IN THE URBAN AREAS COULD BE EXTENDED TO SENSITIVE RECREATIONAL AREAS SUCH AS SAI KUNG AND LANTAU AND OTHER OUTLYING ISLANDS.
"THIS WOULD REDUCE SUBSTANTIALLY THE AREA TO BE EPD’S LIVESTOCK WASTE CONTROL STAFF AND ACHIEVE THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS THAT WE HAVE ALREADY SEEN IN AREAS. WHERE THE BAN IS CURRENTLY 100 PER CENT EFFECTIVE.”
COVERED BY
SORT OF THE URBAN HE SAID.
DR REED SAID SMOKY VEHICLES WAS ANOTHER AREA WHERE THE DEPARTMENT COULD REDUCE THE ADDITIONAL STAFF REQUIRED TO GET ON TOP OF THE PROBLEM.
INSTEAD OF LOOKING TO FINANCE BRANCH FOR MORE RESOURCES TO CHECK MORE VEHICLES. FINES COULD BE INTRODUCED FOR VEHICLES THAT WERE SPOTTED \ND REPORTED FOR EMITTING EXCESSIVE SMOKE, AND THESE VEHICLES COULD Bl REQUIRED TO REPORT FOR TESTING TO AN AUTHORISED PRIVATE SECTOR, GARAGE. RATHER THAN TO I III-. EPD’S OWN TESTING CENTRE.
OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL MEASURES THAT WOULD LEAD TO A REDUCED NEED FOR ADDITIONAL STAFF. IN PARTICULAR. WERE Till- VERY IMPORTANT PROPOSALS TO REDUCE THE SULPHUR LEVEL IN FUEL OIL TO 0.5 PER CENT AND TO REMOVE FROM THE WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE THE CONCESSION THAT ALLOWED EXISTING POLLUTERS TO CONTINL I POLLUTING.
/ONE FINAL ........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
‘5 -
ONE FINAL WAY IN WHICH THE EPD COULD REDUCE THE FUTURE NEED FOR ADDITIONAL. STAFF, DR REED SAID. WAS BY PLACING MUCH MORE OF THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR POLLUTION CONTROL ON THE PEOPLE WHO WERE CAUSING THE POLLUTION.
"WE IN EPD ARE ALWAYS BEING PRESSED TO PROIIDE MORE AND MORE DETAILED ADVICE ON POLLUTION CONTROL TO THOSE WHO ARE CREATING THE PROBLEM.
"PROVIDING THIS ADVICE OCCUPIES MUCH SPECIALIST STAFF TIME AND I FEEL A CHANGE Of APPROACH IS NEEDED. WE SHOULD EXPECT INDUSTRIALISTS TO PUT THEIR OWN HOUSE IN ORDER. IF NECESSARY PAYING SOMEONE TO HELP THEM TO DO IT." HE SAID.
"IF WE THINK MORE ALONG THE SORT OF POSITIVE LINES I HAVE INDICATED. RATHER THAN BEMOANING TH) FACT THAT WE HAVE INSUFFICIENT STAFF TO CARRY FORWARD OUR PROGRAMMES. THEN I FEEL WE STAND A GOOD CHANCE OF MEETING THE COMMITMENTS IN THE WHITE PAPER AND OF MAKING HONG KONG A MORE HEALTHY AND MORE PLEASANT PLACE IN WHICH TO LIVE," DR REED ADDED.
DECLINE IN NUMBER OF INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS t t t » t
THERE ARE SIGNS THAT THE UPWARD TREND IN INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS IN RECENT YEARS IS BEING CHECKED IN MOST TRADES.
ACCORDING TO STATISTICS RELEASED BY THE LABOUR ' DEPARTMENT TODAY (SATURDAY). 32,513 INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS. INVOLVING 69 FATALITIES. WERE REPORTED IN THE FIRST THREE QUARTERS OF THIS YEAR, REPRESENTING A DROP OF THREE PER CENT FROM THE 33,396 ACCIDENTS, AND 62 FATALITIES. RECORDED IN THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
THE NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS IN THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY WAS DOWN BY FIVE PER CENT TO 14,637 AND 11 FATALITIES, WHILE THE MINING, QUARRYING. UTILITIES. TRANSPORT AND SERVICING INDUSTRIES REPORTED 3,190 ACCIDENTS AND 10 DEATHS. A DECREASE OF THREE PER CENT.
THE MOST SIGNIFICANT DECREASE WAS IN THE ELECTRONICS AND PLASTICS INDUSTRIES. WHERE THE NUMBERS OF ACCIDENTS FELL BY 23 PER CENT FROM 899 AND 1.248 TO 693 AND 967 RESPECTIVELY.
HOWEVER. THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, WHICH ALONE ACCOUNTED FOR 14,686 ACCIDENTS AND 18 FATALITIES. REGISTERED AN INCREASE OF 0.2 PER CENT OVER THE FIRST THREE QUARTERS OF LAST YEAR.
THERE WAS ALSO X SLIGHT INCREASE IN ACCIDENTS IN BOTH THE TEXTILES AND WEARING APPAREL INDUSTRIES DURING THE PERIOD, FROM 2,730 CASES TO 2.895 AND FROM 2.162 CASES TO 2.256.
/THE MAJOR ........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
6
THE MAJOR CAUSES OF THE ACCIDENTS REMAINED VERY MUCH THE SAME
AS THOSE IN PREVIOUS YEARS.
THEY INCLUDED STEPPING ON OR STRIKING AGAINST OBJECTS (10,241 CASES). LIFTING WEIGHTS WITHOUT USING MACHINERY (5,578 CASES!, ACCIDENTS INVOLVING MACHINERY (1.989 CASES), FALL OF PERSONS (2,574 CASES), ACCIDENTS INVOLVING HAND TOOLS (2,119 CASES) AND FALLING OBJECTS (1.899 CASES).
OTHERS WERE DUE TO TRANSPORT. HOT OR CORROSIVE SUBSTANCES, EXPLOSION OR FIRE. ELECTRICITY AND SO ON.
OF THE 69 FATAL CASES, 38 INVOLVED WORKERS FALLING FROM A HEIGHT WHILE NINE INVOLVED WORKERS KILLED BY FALLING OBJECTS.
FORTY-EI GUT OF THE FATAL CASES WERE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.
OTHER FATALITIES RELATED TO ELECTRICITY (EIGHT CASES), ACCIDENTS INVOLVING MACHINERY (FIVE CASES), EXPLOSION OR FIRE (FOUR CASES), TRANSPORT (TWO CASES). HOT OR CORROSIVE SUBSTANCE (ONE CASE), AND LIFTING WEIGHTS WITHOUT USING MACHINERY (ONE CASE). ONE OTHER CASE IS STILL BEING INVESTIGATED.
FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN TO START TOMORROW * ♦ * » ♦
AN EXHIBITION WILL BF HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT EDINBURGH PLACE IN CENTRAL TO MARK THE LAUNCHING OF THIS YEAR’S FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN.
’’THE MAIN THEME OF THIS YEAR’S CAMPAIGN IS ELECTRICAL FAULT WHICH IS REGARDED AS A MAJOR CAUSE OF DOMESTIC AND INDUSTRIAL FIRES.” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN PUBLICITY WORKING GROUP SA ID TODAY (SATURDAY) .
’’ELECTRICAL FAULTS CAN BE AVOIDED IF REGULAR MAINTENANCE OF POWER POINTS AND APPLIANCES IS CARRIED OUT BY PROFESSIONALS.” HE ADDED.
TWO SETS OF DISPLAY PANELS. ONE ON ELECTRIC FAULTS AND THE OTHER ON COUNTRYSIDE FIRE PREVENTION. WILL BE MOUNTED. THERE WILL ALSO BF. A LION DANCE AND DEMONSTRATION ON FIRE FIGHTING TECHNIQUES.
A MODERN VESSEL TN THE FIREBOAT FLEET. FIREBOAT NO. 6. WILL BE BERTHED AT QUEEN’S PIER AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO GO ON BOARD TO LOOK AT ITS FACILITIES.
/A FIRE .........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25,1989
7
A FIRE PREVENTION BOOKLET. A DESK CALENDAR AND OTHER SOUVENIRS SPONSORED BY KWONG ON BANK WILL BE DISTRIBUTED.
THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM WITH THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES. MR JOHN MARCH. DOTTING THE EYES OF THE LIONS TO MARK THE START OF THIS YEAR’S CAMPAIGN.
OTHER GUESTS ATTENDING THE CEREMONY WILL BE MRS MARCH: PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY (HONG KONG AND KOWLOON) OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION. MR RAYMOND WONG: DEPUTY CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT. MR. CHAN HON-TING: ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (SQUATTER CONTROL AND IMPROVEMENT) OF THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT. MR GREGORY CHAN: DEPUTY CHIEF INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT. MRS KONG LI CHI-HO: AND SENIOR MANAGING DIRECTOR OF KWONG ON BANK LTD.. MR KENNETH LEUNG.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE 1989-90 FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN LAUNCHING CEREMONY TO BE HELD AT 2 PM AT EDINBURGH PLACE. CENTRAL. GIS OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.
- - - - 0
RTHK TRAFFIC CHANNEL BEGINS SERVICE ON MONDAY t » ♦ ♦ ♦
THE NEW TRAFFIC CHANNEL OPERATED BY RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG. RADIO 7. WILL BEGIN SERVICE ON MONDAY. PROVIDING FIRST-HAND TRAFFIC NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR DRIVERS AND OTHER ROAD USERS.
RADIO 7 WILL BROADCAST ON AM 621.
THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING (RADIO). MR SIMON LUN. SAID 14 GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND PRIVATE ORGANISATIONS WILL BE SUPPORTING THE OPERATION OF RADIO 7.
THESE INCLUDE THE POLICE. THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, TAXI PAGING CHANNELS AND TUNNEL COMPANIES.
IN ADDITION TO PROVIDING THE LATEST INFORMATION, THE TRAFFIC CHANNEL WILL ALSO CARRY ON-THE-SPOT OBSERVATIONS BY THREE TRAFFIC ANNOUNCERS WHO WILL BE STATIONED AT ELIZABETH HOUSE IN CAUSEWAY BAY, 01 MAN ESTATE TN HO MAN TIN AND TIN SUM ESTATE IN SHA TIN. BETWEEN 7.45 AM AND 9 AM.
THE THREE TRAFFIC ANNOUNCERS -- MR HO KAM-KONG. MR CHEUNG WING-HANG AND MR LO HEUNG-CHUEN -- WILL PROVIDE TRAFFIC DETAILS FROM THESE POINTS EVERY 15 MINUTES DURING THIS PEAK-HOUR PERIOD.
THE CHANNEL WILL OPERATE FROM 6 AM TO MIDNIGHT.
/7 .......
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 25. 1989
8
SOCIAL WORKER - A REWARDING PROFESSION *****
PART OF THE LETTER READ LIKE THIS: "1 DIDN’T LIKE THE STAFF HERE WHEN I FIRST ARRIVED. BUT AFTER ALL THESE DAYS. I'VE COME TO LEARN THAT THEY REALLY CARE FOR US."
THIS IS A LETTER WRITTEN BY A FORMER RESIDENT TO SOCIAL WORKER MRS ANNA MAK. SUPERINTENDENT OF A SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT INSTITUTION.
THE DEPARTMENT HAS SEVEN INSTITUTIONS TO PROVIDE REMAND AND CORRECTIONAL SERVICES FOR JUVENILE OFFENDERS AND YOUTH IN NEED OF STATUTORY CARE AND PROTECTION.
"IT GAVE ME QUITE A THRILL WHEN I LEARNT THAT THE EFFORTS WE MADE HAD NOT BEEN WASTED." SHE SAID.
"RESIDENTS IN SU’D INSTITUTIONS ARE NOT MUCH DIFFERENT FROM OTHER TEENAGERS WHO ARE LEADING A NORMAL LIFE. EXCEPT THAT THE OTHERS ARE TAKEN CARE OF IN THEIR FAMILY.
"WHAT WE ARE TRYING TO DO IS TO PROVIDE CHARACTER TRAINING IN A RESIDENTIAL SETTING WITH A VIEW TO CHANGING THEIR BEHAVIOUR AND SOCIAL ATTITUDE THROUGH SOCIAL WORK TECHNIQUES AND SKILLS." SHE SAID.
OUTLINING THE TRAINING PROGRAMMES IN THE INSTITUTIONS. SHE SAID THEY COVERED THREE MAJOR ASPECTS. NAMELY MORAL. ACADEMIC AND PREVOCATIONAL TRAI NING.
"AS RESIDENTS ARE MOSTLY REBELLIOUS ADOLESCENTS WITH DEVIANT BEHAVIOUR. MORAL 'I RA INI NG IS STRONGLY EMPHASISED.
"THEY WOULD BE HELPED TO ADOPT A SET OF POSITIVE AND SOCIALLY ACCEPTABLE VALUES. BEHAVIOUR AND ATTITUDE THROUGH CASEWORK COUNSELLING AND GROUP WORK APPROACHES." SHE ADDED.
ON PREVOCATIONAL TRAINING. MRS MAK SAID THF PROGRAMME AIMED AT PROVIDING BASIC TRADE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS TO RESIDENTS AND CULTIVATING IN THEM A POSITIVE WORK ATTITUDE.
"SINCE SEPTEMBER LAST YEAR. QUALIFIED TEACHERS HAVE BEEN EMPLOYED TO ASSIST OUR RESIDENTS IN THEIR ACADEMIC PURSUITS." MRS MAK SAID.
THE SCHEME HAS GAINED FULL SUPPORT OF OUR SOCIAL WORK STAFF. WE THINK IT IS IDEAL THAT ACADEMIC TEACHING CAN BE ENTRUSTED TO QUALIFIED TEACHERS. THUS RELEASING SOCIAL WORK STAFF TO CONCENTRATE ON COUNSELLING AND RELATED SERVICES.
"WE ARE STILL IN THE PROCESS OF WORKING OUT AN EFFECTIVE AND PRACTICABLE SYSTEM. WHEN NEW MEASURES ARE INTRODUCED. IT IS COMMON EOF? ALL PARTIES. TEACHERS AND SOCIAL WORKERS. TO ALLOW TIME FOR ADJUSTMENT." MRS MAK SAID.
/APART FROM
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
9 -
APART FROM THE ABOVE TRAINING PROGRAMMES, MRS MAK SAID OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES SUCH AS CAMPING. OUTINGS AND OBSERVATIONAL VISITS WERE REGULARLY ORGANISED.
’’OUR AIM IS TO HELP THESE TEENAGERS REINTEGRATE INTO THE COMMUNITY. BUT WHETHER THE GOAL CAN BE ACHIEVED DEPENDS LARGELY ON THE ATTITUDE OF THEIR FAMILY AND THE PUBLIC.’* MRS MAK CONTINUED.
SHF. CALLED ON THE PUBLIC TO UNDERSTAND AND ACCEPT THESE TEENAGERS.
"ONLY BY SHOWING OUR UNDERSTANDING AND CARE CAN THESE CHILDREN BE PREVENTED FROM GOING ASTRAY.” SHE SAID.
NOTING THAT SOCIAL WORKERS TN THE INSTITUTION WERE WORKING ON SHIFT DUTY. SHE SAID THEY HAD TO ASSUME THE ROLE OF GUARDIAN OF THE RESIDENTS. LOOKING AFTER THEIR DAILY LIVES APART FROM ATTENDING TO THEIR NEEDS FOR COUNSELLING AND GUIDANCE.
"THAT IS A DEMANDING AND CHALLENGING JOB.” SHE SAID.
COMMENTING ON WHETHER IRREGULAR WORKING HOURS AND THE DEMANDING JOB NATURE OF AN INSTITUTION WOULD INTERFERE WITH WORKERS’ FAMILY AND SOCIAL LIFE. MRS MAK SAID: "WORKERS IN RESIDENTIAL INSTITUTIONS DO NEED MORAL SUPPORT FROM THEIR FAMILY AS WELL AS THEIR COLLEAGUES.
I AM LUCKY TO HAVE V TEAM OF WORKERS WITH IDEALS AND GREAT DEDICATION IN Till* I R WORK.
"I REALLY ENJOY MY WORK THOUGH I DID HAVE A RATHER PAINSTAKING \D.H-STMI NT PERIOD WHEN I FIRST ARRIVED HERE.” SHE SAID.
RFTURN Of MIGRANTS WILL BE WELCOME t ♦ ♦ t ♦
IT IS ENCOURAGING TO LEARN THAT MORE AND MORE FORMER HONG KONG RESIDENTS WHO HAVE MIGRATED ABROAD ARE THINKING OF RETURNING TO THE TERRITORY AND RI-ESTABLISHING THEIR BUSINESSES HERE. THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR DAVID LAN, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
MR LAN MAPI HIE REMARK DURING A MEETING WITH TWO MEMBERS OF Till TORONTO fill NESI BUSINESS ASSOC I AT ION. MR HERBERT CHANG AND MR JOSEPH AU YEUNG. WHO ARE: IS HONG KONG ON A BUSINESS TRIP.
Till RIGlONAl SMI'.' IVY GAIL’ III IS WAS PARTICULARLY HEARTENING Blf’AUSI I'M I GRAT" P LR'-M H'-\"’- K'v'. WAS IJIJLV TO CONTINUE AT A HIGH LEVEL IN Till NEXT FEW YEARS AND IT WAs IMPERATIVE THAT MEASURES BF TV.FL1 rn FILL THE GAPS left bfhild p.y those* leaving.
/’’APART FROM ..........
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
10
"APART FROM ELEVATING SUITABLE PEOPLE FROM WITHIN HONG KONG, A MOST OBVIOUS POTENTIAL SOURCE OF TALENTS IS, OF COURSE, OUR FORMER RESIDENTS BECAUSE THEY ALREADY KNOW HOW HONG KONG OPERATES AND WILL HAVE NO PROBLEM IN ADOPTING TO THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT.
"THE GOVERNMENT AND MANY LOCAL COMPANIES ARE ALREADY RECRUITING FROM CHINESE COMMUNITIES IN THE UNITED STATES, CANADA AND AUSTRALIA. ACTIVE CONSIDERATION IS BEING GIVEN AS TO WHAT CAN BE DONE TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR THESE PEOPLE TO RETURN AND TO STAY." MR LAN SAID.
MR CHENG, WHO IS ALSO THE CHAIRMAN OF THE MANDARIN CLUB IN TORONTO, TOLD THE REGIONAL SECRETARY THAT MORE AND MORE FORMER HONG KONG RESIDENTS IN TORONTO AND ELSEWHERE ARE PAYING MORE FREQUENT VISITS TO THE TERRITORY AND ARE MAKING ENQUIRIES ABOUT NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES HERE.
MR LAN SAID IT WAS ONLY NATURAL THAT PEOPLE WHO WERE BORN AND BROUGHT UP IN HONG KONG WOULD REMAIN STRONGLY ATTACHED TO THE TERRITORY AS MANY OF THEM STILL HAVE RELATIVES AND FRIENDS HERE. IT WAS HARDLY SURPRISING THAT SOME OF THEM WOULD CHOOSF TO RETURN, HE SAID. ADDING THAT THEY WOULD OF COURSE BE WARMLY WELCOMED.
ELDERLY PEOPLE STILL FULL OF VITALITY ♦ * ♦ ♦ *
ELDERLY PEOPLE CAN STILL BE FULL OF VITALITY AND LEAD AN EVENTFUL LIFE. THE REGIONAL OFFICER (EAST KOWLOON) OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT. MR LOK MAN-PAN, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF A HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAMME FOR THE ELDERLY IN KWUN TONG. MR LOK SAID TO ACHIEVE THIS THE ELDERLY MUST STRIVE TO REMAIN FIT BOTH PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY.
"IT IS ALSO NECESSARY FOR THEM TO LIVE AN ACTIVE SOCIAL LIFE AND TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COMMUNITY."
HE ADVISED THE ELDERLY TO PAY MORE ATTENTION TO NUTRITION. HAVE ADEQUATE EXERCISE, AND CULTIVATE SOME INTERESTS.
THE PROGRAMME IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT ELDERLY’ SERVICE JOINT FUNCTION COMMITTEE AND KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD TO AROUSE ELDERLY PEOPLE’S AWARENESS OF HEALTH CARE AND THE PUBLIC’S CONCERN FOR THE ELDERLY.
/10 ........
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 25. 1989
11
VISITORS TAKE LUNG FUNCTION TEST AT EXHIBITION * * * * *
PEOPLE VISITING Till "OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVE: CONSTRUCTION AND QUARRYING INDUSTRIES" EXHIBITION IN SHA TIN HAVE SHOWN GREAT INTEREST IN TRYING THE EREE LUNG FUNCTION TEST.
WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF NURSING STAFF FROM THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH DIVISION OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT. VISITORS TESTED THEIR LUNG FUNCTION AND CHECKED THE STATE OF THEIR HEALTH BY USING A SPIROMETER.
THE EXHIBITION. WHICH IS ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT AND CO-ORGANISED BY THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL. IS OPEN FROM 10 AM TO 7 PM DAILY UNTIL TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 28 I AT THE NEW TOWN PLAZA IN Sil A TIN.
IT FEATURES PHOTOGRAPHS AND SAMPLES ILLUSTRATING THE VARIOUS OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES AND HAZARDS FREQUENTLY FOUND IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND QUARRYING INDUSTRIES.
THESE INCLUDE SILICOSIS, ASBESTOSIS, CONTACT DERMATITIS. POISONING CAUSED BY ORGANIC SOLVENTS AS WELL AS DEAFNESS CAUSED BY NOISE.
IN ADDITION TO SLIDE SHOWS. X NEWLY-PRODUCED ON SILICOSIS IS BEING SCREENED TO EXPLAIN THE CAUSES AND THE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES THAT CAN BE TAKEN.
VISITORS CAN ALSO OBTAIN INFORMATION ON SOME COMMONLY USED IN LOCAL INDUSTRIES FROM A COMPUTER BANK .
J8-MJNUTE VIDEO OF THE DISEASE
1,000 CHEMICALS TOXI OOLOGY DATA
CLEAN COUNTRYSIDE CONCERT TO BE HELD TOMORROW *****
A CLEAN COUNTRYSIDE CONCERT. ORGANISED BY THE JOINT URBAN COUNCIL/REGTONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE. WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY). BEGINNING AT 1.30 PM AT HOK TAU. PAT SIN LENG COUNTRY PARK.
DURING THE CONCERT. KEEP CLEAN MESSAGES WILL BE DISSEMINATED THROUGH A VARIETY OF PERFORMANCES BY POPULAR SINGERS AND THROUGH GAMES WITH THE SPECTATORS.
THE AUDIENCE WILL BE REMINDED IN PARTICULAR OF THE NEED TO DISPOSE OF REFUSE PROPERLY AFTER ENJOYING VARIOUS FACILITIES AT THE COUNTRY PARKS.
THE PROGRAMME WILL BE PRODUCED AND BROADCAST LIVE BY COMMERCIAL RADIO I FROM 2 PM TO 3 PM.
/THE CHAIRMAN .......
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
12
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNTRY PARK BOARD AND MEMBER OF THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE. MR CARLOS CHEUNG HON-KAU. MEMBER OF THE URBAN COUNCIL’S PUBLIC HEALTH SELECT COMMITTEE. MR LAM CHAK-PIU. AND DIRECTOR. OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES. DR LAWRENCE LEE. WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING ( EREMONY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CLEAN COUNTRYSIDE CONCERT TO BEGIN AT 1.30 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
A VAN (RC4633) WILL PICK UP REPORTERS AT MIDDLE ROAD. TSIM SHA TSUI (BEHIND PENINSULA HOTEL) AND LEAVE FOR HOK TAP. PAT SIN LENG COUNTRY PARK AT 11.15 AM SHARP. GIS OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.
NEW MEDICAL LIBRARY IN QMII OPENS t * t ♦ I
LIBRARY FACILITIES FOR STAFF OF THE HOSPITAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAVE BEEN FURTHER IMPROVID WITH THE OPENING OF A NEW MEDICAL LIBRARY IN QUEEN MARY HOSPITAL.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HOSPITAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT SAID THE NEW LIBRARY. WHICH IS LOCATED AT THE QMII EXTENSION. IS THE LARGEST MEDICAL LIBRARY UNDER THE HOSPITAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT PRESENT.
"THE NEU LIBRARY OCCUPIES AN ARFA OF 535 SQUARE METRES. AND INITIALLY' IT CONTAINS SOME 2.500 VOLUMES OF BOOKS. 212 TITLES OF JOURNALS AND 100 ITEMS Ol AUDIO-VISUAL MATERIALS INCLUDING VIDEO CASSETTE TAPES. AUDIO CASSETTE TAPES. SOUND SLIDE PROGRAMMES, MICROFILM AS WELL AS MICROFICHES.
"MORE BOOKS AND AUDIO-VISUAL MATERIALS ARE BEING PROCESSED AND ADDED TO THE LIBRARY STOCK." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE LIBRARY PROVIDES A TOTAL Ob' 75 SEATS. OF WHICH 50 ARE STUDY CARRELS WHICH WOULD ENABLF LIBRARY USERS TO READ IN A QUIET ENVIRONMENT.
THE SPOKESMAN NOTED THAT Till’ LIBRARY WOULD CATER MAINLY TO THE INFORMATION NEEDS OF QMII STAFF . BUT OTHER STAFF OF THE HOSPITAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT WOULD ALSO HAVE ACCESS TO THE MATERIALS.
HE ADDED THAT THE DEPARTMENT HAD PLANS TO SET UP NEW MEDICAL LIBRARIES IN OTHER. REGIONAL HOSPITALS.
/’’THE TUEN ............
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
13
"THE TUEN MUN HOSPITAL WILL HOUSE A MEDICAL LIBRARY OF SIZE. BOOKS AND OTHER MATERIALS ARE BEING PURCHASED AND THE IS EXPECTED TO BE OPENED OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS." HE SAID.
SIMILAR LIBRARY
ACCORDING TO THE DEPARTMENT'S PLAN. ANOTHER NEW MEDICAL LIBRARY WILL BE ESTABLISHED IN QUEEN ELIZABETH HOSPITAL AROUND SUMMER NEXT YEAR. AFTER THE COMPLETION OF THE HOSPITAL EXTENSION.
THE LIBRARY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME OF THE HOSPITAL DEPARTMENT WILL ALSO COVER EXISTING MEDICAL LIBRARIES IN MARGARET HOSPITAL AND CASTLE PEAK HOSPITAL AS WELL LONG-ESTABLISHED NURSING SCHOOL LIBRARIES.
SERVICES PRINCESS AS THE
THE HOSPITAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT NOW HAS 13 MEDICAL LIBRARIES.
----0----
KWAI TSING TO PROMOTE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY * ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD WILL HOLD A CARNIVAL AND A SERIES OF EXHIBITIONS TO PROMOTE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND HEALTH IN THE DISTRICT.
THE CARNIVAL. WITH TELEMATCHES AND STALL GAMES, WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE HING FONG ROAD PLAYGROUND. IT WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.
FIVE EXHIBITIONS WILL BE HELD AT SEPARATE LOCATIONS NOVEMBER 30 AND DECEMBER 17.
BETWEEN
THE
DISTRICT BOARD HAS
ALLOCATED ABOUT
$150,000
FOR THE
ACTIVITIES.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE CARNIVAL TOMORROW WILL BE KWAI TSING DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LEE WING-TAT: CHAIRMAN OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE RIGHTS OF INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENT VICTIMS. MR LAU CHIN-SHEK: MEMBER OF THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL. MR PETER Y.T. CHEUNG: CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT. MR YIP YUK-LUN: AND ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER OF KWAI
TSING, MR REX W.Y. CHANG.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT INDUSTRIAL SAFETY AND HEALTH CARNIVAL WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) AT THE HING FONG ROAD PLAYGROUND (NEXT TO KWAI FONG MTR STATION).
0 - - - -
Z13 ........
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 25. 1989
BOTTLED DRINKING WATER SAFE FOR CONSUMPTION ♦ ♦ ♦ * ♦
THE HYGIENE ADVISER OF THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH. DR M.B. AL1. SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT TESTS ON THE 12 SAMPLES OF BOTTLED DRINKING WATER COLLECTED FROM THE LOCAL MARKET HAD BEEN COMPLETED AND THE WATER HAD PROVED TO BE SUITABLE FOR CONSUMPTION.
THE SAMPLES WERE GATHERED FOR LABORATORY TESTS FOLLOWING REPORTS FROM MACAU THAT TWO BRANDS OF BOTTLED DRINKING WATER FROM HONG KONG SUPPLIERS WERE FOUND TO BE CONTAMINATED WITH BACTERIA.
TEST RESULTS SHOWED THAT ALL OF THE SAMPLES WERE FREE OF COLIFORM ORGANISM.
’’STAFF OF THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH HAVE ALWAYS BEEN VIGILANT ON FOOD ITEMS AND BEVERAGES ON SALE IN THE LOCAL MARKET FOR PUBLIC HEALTH REASONS." DR ALI SAID.
THE MUNICIPAL SERVICES BRANCH WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR THE SITUATION.
TAT PO FISH CULTURE ZONE FACILITIES ON AGENDA
MEMBERS OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S WORKING GROUP ON AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES WILL DISCUSS HOW TO IMPROVE THE FISH CULTURE ZONE FACILITIES IN THE DISTRICT AT THE GROUP’S MEETING ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 27).
THEY WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE GOVERNMENT’S ACTIONS TO DEAL WITH FLOATING REFUSE.
OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA INCLUDE WORK TARGETS AND THE WORKING GROUP’S MEETING SCHEDULE FOR THE NEXT 18 MONTHS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE MEETING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S WORKING GROUP ON AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES TO BE HELD ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 17) AT THE DISTRICT BOARD CONFERENCE ROOM ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF TAI PO COMMERCIAL CENTRE. 152 KWONG FUK ROAD. TA 1 PO.
THE MEETING WILL START AT 9.30 AM.
/14
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1989
- 15 -
ORIENTEERING COMPETITION IN SOUTHERN TOMORROW
*****
TWENTY TEAMS OF ABOUT 60 ORIENTEERING ENTHUSIASTS FROM SOUTHERN DISTRICT WILL PUT THEIR SKILLS TO THE TEST IN A COMPETITION IN THE SCENIC TAI TAM COUNTRY PARK TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
THE ’’ORIENTEERING IN TAI TAM” COMPETITION IS ORGANISED AS PART OF THE CURRENT SOUTHERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL BY THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE (DFOC) IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE HONG KONG SCOUT ASSOCIATION AND THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE.
IT ATMS TO PROMOTE RESIDENTS* INTEREST IN SPORTS PURSUITS.
OFFICIATING AT A STARTING CEREMONY AT 10 AM WILL BE SOUTHERN ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, MR DAVID LEUNG; CHAIRMAN OF THE DFOC’S RECREATIONAL AND CULTURAL PROGRAMMES WORKING GROUP, MR JOSEPH CHAN: DFOC MEMBERS MR LAM HON-KEUNG, MR TENNY HUNG AND MR CHAN KWONG; AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE SCOUT ASSOCIATION.
THE STARTING AND FINISHING POINT IS NEAR THE COUNTRY PARK MANAGEMENT CENTRE IN TAI TAM RESERVOIR ROAD, WHICH IS ABOUT 10 MINUTES* WALK FROM PARKVIEW.
THE TEAMS WILL SET OFF AT INTERVALS TO SEARCH FOR MARKERS BEARING DIFFERENT SCORES IN VARIOUS PARTS OF THE PARK ACCORDING TO A MAP TO BE PROVIDED BY THE ORGANISERS.
THE FIVE TEAMS WHICH SCORE THE HIGHEST MARKS WITHIN A SPECIFIED PERIOD WILL BF. AWARDED TROPHIES AND SOUVENIRS IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE COMPETITION.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE “ORIENTEERING IN TAI TAM" COMPETITION TO BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) FROM 10 AM TO 1 PM IN TAI TAM COUNTRY PARK.
THF STARTING AND PRIZE-PRESENTATION CEREMONIES WILL BE HELD NEAR THE COUNTRY PARK MANAGEMENT CENTRE IN TAI TAM RESERVOIR ROAD.
/15 ........
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 25. 1989
1 6
'BE A GOOD CITIZEN’ STICKERS *****
STICKERS TO HELP PROMOTE CIVIC EDUCATION ARE NOW AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE AT THE NORTH DISTRICT ON A FIRST COME. FIRST SERVED BASIS.
PREPARED BY THE NORTH DISTRICT STEERING COMMITTEE FOR THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION. THE 50.000 SETS OF STICKERS BEAR SIX DIFFERENT THEMES - "KNOW YOUR RIGHTS”. "EXERCISE YOUR OBLIGATIONS". "OBEY THE LAW". "SERVE THE COMMUNITY". "HAVE REGARD FOR PUBLIC INTEREST". AND "LOVE YOUR FAMILY".
A SPOKESMAN' FOR. THE STEERING COMMITTEE SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT THE STICKERS WERE AIMED AT INSTILLING A SENSE OF CIVIC-MINDEDNESS IN A LIGHT-HEARTED. YET EDUCATIONAL WAY.
RESIDENTS CAN OBTAIN THE STICKERS OFFICE IN JOCKEY CLUB ROAD. FANLING: THE OFFICE IN CHOI YUEN ESTATE. SHEUNG SHUT: SERVICE CENTRES LOCATED AT SAN FUNG AVENUE. WAH ESTATE FANLING.
FROM THE NORTH DISTRICT COMMUNITY AFFAIRS BRANCH AND THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY
SHEUNG SHUT AND AT CHEUNG
SETS OF THE STICKERS ARE ALSO BEING DISTRIBUTED TO LOCAL PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS. AS WELL AS CIVIC EDUCATION GROUPS.” THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
PROMOT1NG CIVIC EDUCATION THROUGH COMPUTER STUDIES * * * l *
ABOUT IOC) SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS ATTENDED A SEMINAR ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION THROUGH COMPUTER. STUDIES AT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S COMPUTER EDUCATION CENTRE TODAY (SATURDAY).
THE SEMINAR. ORGANISED B\ THE COMPUTER EDUCATION CENTRE. AIMED TO EXPLORE Till- POSS 1I? 11J T IES OF PROMOTING CIVIC EDUCATION THROUGH THE TEACHING OF COMPUTER STUDIES IN SCHOOLS.
IT wv. (HAIRED IO THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION (CHIEF INSPECTOR OF SCHOOLS). MR WONG SIK-WAH.
THE VICE-PRESIDENT AND AMERICA. MR PETER CHAN, GAVE BANKING SYSTEM AFTER WHICH AN EXCHANGE THEIR VIEWS.
SENIOR SYSTEM MANAGER OF THE BANK OF A TALK ON SECURITY IN THE COMPUTER
OPEN FORUM WAS HELD FOR PARTICIPANTS TO
/16 .........
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 25, 1989
17
ROAD SAFETY DAY TOMORROW IN TAI PO
*****
A ROAD SAFETY DAY WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) MORNING AT THE TAI PO PLAYGROUND IN HEUNG SZE WUI ROAD TO MARK THE CLOSING OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN.
THERE WILL BE A PARADE BY A ROAD SAFETY TEAM. AN EXHIBITION ON ROAD SAFETY. A MOCK DRIVING EXERCISE FOR CHILDREN AND STALL GAMES.
THE DISTRICT OFFICER, MR THOMAS YIU, AND THE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR HO YUNG-SANG. WILL OFFICIATE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY AT 10.30 AM.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE THE POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER. MR LEUNG FUNG-SHUN. AND CHAIRMAN OF THE DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE. MR TANG PUI-TAT.
THE EVENT IS ORGANISED BY THE WORKING GROUP ON TAI PO DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN AND SPONSORED BY THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD.
NOTE TO EDITORS: k J • •
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING . CEREMONY OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY DAY TO BE HELD TOMORROW ■ (SUNDAY) AT THE TAI PO PLAYGROUND, HEUNG SZE WUI STREET. TAI PO. IT WILL BEGIN AT 10.30 AM.
--.-0----
SEMINAR ON YOUTH AND LEADERSHIP IN TAI PO
*****
SIXTY YOUNG COMMUNITY WORK VOLUNTEERS IN TAI PO TOOK PART IN A SEMINAR ON YOUTH AND LEADERSHIP IN THE TAI PO COMMUNITY CENTRE THIS (SATURDAY) EVENING.
THE SEMINAR WAS AN EFFORT TO HELP GROOM YOUTH LEADERS IN THE DISTRICT.
OMELCO MEMBERS MISS MARIA TAM AND MR SZETO WAH. AND REGIONAL COUNCILLOR MR LAI KAM-CHEUNG ADDRESSED THE SEMINAR AND SHARED THEIR EXPERIENCES IN COMMUNITY' WORK WITH THE AUDIENCE.
THE SEMINAR WAS PART OF THE YOUTH LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROGRAMME ORGANISED BY THE WORKING GROUP ON TAI PO YOUTH FESTIVAL AND SPONSORED BY THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD.
THE TRAINING PROGRAMME ALSO INCLUDES VISITS TO GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND CAMPING ACTIVITIES.
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/1 7
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 25. 1989
18
NEW KMB ROUTE NO. 270 ♦ ♦ * * ♦
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT A KMB AIR-CONDITIONED COACH ROUTE. NO. 270 (TIN PING - TAT PING). WILL BE INTRODUCED ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 27 I.
THE COACH SERVICE WILL OPERATE AT A BASIC FREQUENCY OF 12 MINUTES AND WILL SERVE SHEUNG SHU I KCR STATION EN-ROUTE.
A FARE OF $1.80 WILL BE CHARGED PER SINGLE JOURNEY.
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS ON HK ISLAND ♦ * ♦ » ♦
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 27). SEVERAL ROAD SECTIONS ON HONG KONG ISLAND WILL BE DESIGNATED URBAN CLEARWAYS.
IN THE MID-LEVELS. THE NORTHERN KERBSIDE LANE OF CONDUIT ROAD FROM A POINT ABOUT 13 METRES EAST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH CASTLE ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 120 METRES EAST OF THE SAME JUNCTION (EXCLUDING THE LAYBY OUTSIDE HOUSE NUMBER 54) WILL BE MADE AN URBAN CLEARWAY ROUND-THE-CLOCK FOR ABOUT EIGHT WEEKS BECAUSE OF DRAINAGE WORKS.
IN WAN CHAI. THE WESTERN KERBSIDE LANE OF TAI WONG STREET EAST FROM ITS JUNCTION WITH JOHNSTON ROAD TO A POINT ABOUT 50 METRES TO THE SOUTH WILL BECOME A 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY URBAN CLEARWAY FOR ABOUT FOUR WEEKS TO FACILITATE CABLE LAYING WORKS.
IN ADDITION. THE FOLLOWING ROAD SECTIONS IN SHAU KEI WAN WILL BECOME PEAK HOUR (7 AM - 10 AM AND 4 PM - 7 PM) DAILY URBAN CLEARWAYS FOR ABOUT FOUR WEEKS TO FACILITATE ROAD WORKS:
* A KUNG NGAM VILLAGE ROAD BETWEEN A POINT ABOUT 65 METRES EAST OF ITS JUNCTION WITH A KUNG NGAM ROAD AND A POINT ABOUT 90 METRES EAST OF THE SAME JUNCTION: AND
♦ THE A KUNG NGAM VILLAGE ROAD CUL-DE-SAC BETWEEN ITS JUNCTION WITH A KUNG NGAM VILLAGE ROAD AND A POINT ABOUT 10 METRES SOUTH OF THE SAME JUNCTION.
NO VEHICLES EXCEPT FRANCHISED BUSES WILL BE ALLOWED TO STOP FOR PASSENGERS OR GOODS WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREAS.
ALSO FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY. A KUNG NGAM ROAD NORTH OF A KUNG NGAM VILLAGE ROAD WILL BE CLOSED TO TRAFFIC FOR ABOUT FOUR WEEKS.
DURING THE CLOSURE. AFFECTED VEHICLES INCLUDING WESTBOUND CMB BUS ROUTE 85 WILL BE DIVERTED VIA A KUNG NGAM VILLAGE ROAD.
0
/18
SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 25. 1989
1 9 -
TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS IN SHAM SHUI PO » * ♦ ♦ *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM ON MONDAY (NOVEMBER 27) TEMPORARY TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED FOR SIX WEEKS TO FACILITATE THE DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT WORK IN SHAM SHUI PO.
THE RIGHT-TURN FROM KWONG LEE ROAD EASTBOUND ONTO FAT TSEUNG STREET SOUTHBOUND WILL BE BANNED. MOTORISTS FROM KWONG LEE ROAD EASTBOUND HEADING FOR FAT TSEUNG STREET SOUTHBOUND MAY TRAVEL VIA KWONG LEE ROAD EASTBOUND. PRATAS STREET. WAI WAI ROAD. TONKIN STREET. KWONG LEE ROAD AND FAT TSEUNG STREET SOUTHBOUND.
THE LEFT-TURN FROM FAT TSEUNG STREET NORTHBOUND ONTO KWONG LEE ROAD WESTBOUND WILL BE BANNED. MOTORISTS FROM FAT TSEUNG STREET NORTHBOUND HEADING FOR KWONG LEE ROAD WESTBOUND MAY TRAVEL VIA FAT TSEUNG STREET NORTHBOUND. KWONG LEE ROAD EASTBOUND. PRATAS STREET. WAI WAI STREET. TONKIN STREET AND KWONG LEE ROAD WESTBOUND.
THE VEHICULAR TURNING MOVEMENTS FROM KWONG LEE ROAD INTO MAN FAT STREET WILL BF. BANNED. MOTORISTS HEADING FOR MAN FAT STREET ARE ADVISED TO TRAVEI. VIA CHEUNG FAT STREET INSTEAD.
AT THE SAME TIME. MAN FAT STREET WILL BE DESIGNATED A BAN ZONE EXCEPT FOR ACCESS 24 HOURS DAILY.
ALL VEHICLES. EXCEPT THOSE WITH PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT AND FOR ACCESS. WILL BE PROHIBITED FROM ENTERING THE BAN ZONE.
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
WAYS OF RETURNING VBP TO VIETNAM BEING EXAMINED ............ 1
GOVERNOR PAYS TRIBUTE TO ST JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE.......... 1
PROPER INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE OF ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS VITAL 2 RHKAAF CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF SERVICE ...................... 3
REMINDER ON SALE OF RHINOCEROS MEDICINE BAN ................ 4
POSTER TO PUBLICISE 'IN TOUCH WITH REHABILITATION' CAMPAIGN . 5
NORTH DB ON STUDY TOUR ..................................... 6
DB TO DISCUSS CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL UTILISATION ............. 7
CONCERT PROMOTES KEEP CLEAN MESSAGES ....................... 8
THOUSANDS HAVE FUN AT SPORTS CARNIVAL ...................... 9
ISLANDERS GIVEN TRAFFIC SAFETY ADVICE ...................... 9
THOUSANDS ENJOY TAI PO ROAD SAFETY DAY..................... 11
WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL CLOSES .................... 11
DISTRICT CHRISTMAS PARTY TICKETS ON SALE TOMORROW ......... 12
SLOGAN AND COMIC DRAWING COMPETITIONS ON HOME SECURITY.... 1J
ENTRIES INVITED FOR DANCE CONTEST ......................... 14
TRANSPORT GUIDE ON SALE.................................. 14
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS LAMMA PAVILION CONSTRUCTION ....... 15
NEW IDENTITY CARDS FOR MEN BORN IN 1936-40 ................ 16
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN KOWLOON CITY .................... 17
LANE CLOSURE ON TUEN MUN ROAD.............................. 17
SALT WATER CUT IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT........................ 18
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
1
WAYS OF RETURN1NG VBP TO VIETNAM BEING EXAMINED t t t ♦ ♦ ♦
THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, TODAY (SUNDAY) REITERATED THE GOVERNMENT’S INTENTION TO START A PROGRAMME OF ORDERLY RETURN TO VIETNAM FOR THOSE BOAT PEOPLE WHO WERE FOUND NOT TO BE REFUGEES.
’’BUT WE HAVE NOT YET GOT THE FINAL ARRANGEMENTS IN PLACE," HE TOLD REPORTERS AFTER INSPECTING THE ST. JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE ANNUAL PARADE.
ASKED TO COMMENT ON A REPORT THAT GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS WERE IxN LONDON TO STUDY THE POSSIBILITY Ol USING FERRIES FOR RETURNING PEOPLE TO VIETNAM, SIR DAVID SAID, WE ARE LOOKING AT A NUMBER OF ALTERNATIVE METHODS. GIVEN THE LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE INVOLVED, YOU HAVE TO THINK OF IT ON A LONG TERM BASTS. SO WE ARE EXAMINING A NUMBER OF DIFFERENT METHODS.
"BUT AT THIS STAGE I DON’T WANT TO COMMENT ON THE OPERATIONAL DETA ILS.'
GOVERNOR PAYS TRIBUTE TO ST JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE t t ♦ ♦ t
HONG KONG IS FORTUNATE IN HAVING SO MANY DEDICATED PEOPLE SO WILLING TO DEVOTE THEIR FREE TIME TO SERVING THE COMMUNITY AS MEMBERS OF THE ST JOHN AMBULANCF BRIGADE. THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON. SAID TODAY I SI NDAY) .
SPEAKING
SAID THAT LAST HOURS PROVIDING
VOLUNTARILY AND
\T THF ANNUAL INSPECTION OF THE BRIGADE, SIR DAVID YEAR MEMBERS Ol THb BRIGADE HAD SPENT SOME 140,000 FIRST AID AND AMBULANCE SERVICES FOR THE PUBLIC.
WITHOUT CHARGE.
THE GOVERNOR SAID THE ST JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE, FOUNDED HERE IN 1916, HAD FOR MORE THAL 70 YEARS SERVED THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG FAITHFULLY AND WITH GREAT DEDICATION.
ITS MEMBERS WER1 ON DUTY AT BEACHES AND SWIMMING POOLS DURING LONG HOT SUMMERS. AND THEY ALSO PROVIDED FIRST AID SERVICES AT SPORTS MEETINGS. FUND RAISING WALKATHONS AND NUMEROUS OTHER COMMUNITY EVENTS.
IN ADDITION. THE BRIGADE’S AMBULANCE SERVICE WAS ON HOURS A DAY THROUGHOUT THE YEAR on a TERRITORY WIDE BASIS.
CALL 24
"AS MEMBERS OF THE BRIGADE YOU PLAY AN ESSENTIAL ROLE IN MANY PUBLIC ACTIVITIES.
"THE EXCELLENT FIRST AID COVERAGI YOU PROVIDE MAKES A MAJOR CONTRIBUTION TO THF SUCCESS AND SAFETY OF THESE EVENTS." SIR DAVID SAID.
/THE GOVERNOR .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
2
THE GOVERNOR NOTED THAT THE BRIGADE WAS BROADENING ITS SERVICES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES TO KEEP PACE WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW TOWNS.
EXAMPLES INCLUDED THE MAJOR PLANS TO BUILD AN AMBULANCE DEPOT AND DIVISIONAL HEADQUARTERS IN SHRUNG SHU1 AS WELL AS TO EXPAND THE CADET SECTION.
SIR DAVID EMPHASISED THAT THERE WOULD BE MUCH MORE FOR THE BRIGADE TO DO IN THE YEARS AHEAD, AND SAID IT WOULD CONTINUE TO PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN SERVING THE COMMUNITY.
THE GOVERNOR PRESENTED LONG SERVICE MEDALS AND COMPETITION TROPHIES TO BRIGADE MEMBERS.
0 - - -
PROPER INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE OF ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS VITAL ♦ t * t ♦ ♦
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS FOR LIGHTING, POWER, HEATING AND OTHER PURPOSES CAN LEAD TO FIRE AND PERSONAL INJURY IF THEY ARE NOT INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED IN ACCORDANCE WITH ESTABLISHED STANDARDS, THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES, MR JOHN MARCH, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY OF THE 1989-90 FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN AT EDINBURGH PLACE IN CENTRAL, MR MARCH SAID: ’’EVERY YEAR, ABOUT 15 PER CENT OF ALL FIRES IN HONG KONG ARE ELECTRICAL IN ORIGIN."
THE MOST COMMON WERE MISUSE OF ADAPTORS, FAULTY WIRING, IMPERFECT APPLIANCES AND LACK OI REGULAR INSPECTION BY COMPETENT PERSONS. HE SAID.
’’MOST ELECTRICAL CAUSES OF FIRE ARE AVOIDABLE IF PROPER CARE IS TAKEN IN THE USE OF APPLIANCES AND IF EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATIONS ARE CHECKED REGULARLY," MR MARCH STRESSED.
HE ALSO CALLED ON EVERYONE IN HONG KONG TO PLAY A ROLE IN FIRE PREVENTION BY TRYING TO REDUCE THE OCCURRENCE OF ELECTRICAL HAZARDS BECAUSE THE LIVES AND PROPERTY OF EVERYONE IN A COMMUNITY COULD BE THREATENED BY FIRE.
THE MAIN THEME OF THIS YEAR’S FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN IS ELECTRICITY AND RISK.
THE LAUNCHING OF THE CAMPAIGN ATTRACTED THOUSANDS OF SPECTATORS WHO WERE TREATED TO AN INTERESTING DISPLAY OF FIRE FIGHTING ACTIVITIES.
TWO FIREBOATS STAGED A WATER DISPLAY IN THE HARBOUR WHILE THE LAUNCHING CEREMONY WAS IN PROGRESS.
/AFTER THE ........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
3
AFTER THE CEREMONY, THERE WAS A SPECTACULAR DEMONSTRATION BY FIREMEN ON THE USE OF FIRE SERVICE INSTALLATIONS AND DEMONSTRATIONS OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF FIRE FIGHTING AND RESCUE TECHNIQUES.
THE PUBLIC WAS ALSO INVITED TO VIEW A LARGE-SCALE DISPLAY OF FIRE APPLIANCES, AMBULANCES, FIRE FIGHTING AND RESCUE EQUIPMENT AND DISPLAY PANELS WITH EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS ON ELECTRICAL HAZARDS.
THEY ALSO BOARDED A FIREBOAT BERTHED AT QUEEN’S PIER TO SEE THE MODERN FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT ON BOARD.
VISITORS RECEIVED FIRE PREVENTION SOUVENIRS IMPRINTED WITH FIRE PREVENTION MESSAGES.
THE GIVEAWAY ITEMS WERE DONATED BY THE KWONG ON BANK IN SUPPORT OF THE FIRE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN.
RHKAAF CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF SERVICE * t * * *
THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE CELEBRATED 40 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY TODAY (SUNDAY) WITH A GATHERING OF VOLUNTEERS AND STAFF, AND TWO VERY SPECIAL GUESTS ----- THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AND LADY WILSON.
DURING A TOUR OF THE RHKAAF HEADQUARTERS IN KOWLOON BAY, THE GOVERNOR AND LADY WILSON SAW AIRCRAFT ON DISPLAY, INSPECTED A DISPLAY OF EQUIPMENT USED IN AIRCRAFT OPERATIONAL ROLES, CELEBRATION ACTIVITIES AND CHATTED WITH VOLUNTEER AND STAFF MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES.
SIR DAVID ALSO SIGNED A COMMEMORATIVE SILK SCREEN AND HELPED TO CUT A BIRTHDAY CAKE. LATER HE UNVEILED A PLAQUE AND DECLARED THE RHKAAF WARRANT OFFICERS AND SERGEANTS MESS OPEN.
IN ITS 40 YEARS OF SERVICE, THE RHKAAF HAS FLOWN THOUSANDS OF MISSIONS RANGING FROM SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS TO EMERGENCY FLIGHTS, AND AT THE END OF LAST MONTH THE 5,000TH EMERGENCY FLIGHT WAS MADE.
THE RHKAAF HAS A PERMANENT STAFF ESTABLISHMENT OF 142 AND ABOUT 70 VOLUNTEERS.
A MILESTONE FOR THE RHKAAF CAME THIS YEAR WHEN IN APRIL A CONTRACT WAS SIGNED FOR EIGHT NEW HIGHLY SOPHISTICATED SIKORSKY HELICOPTERS AT A COST OF ABOUT $500 MILLION. IN ADDITION, THE RHKAAF WAS FORMALLY TRANSFERRED TO THE DISCIPLINED SERVICES GROUP OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS IN MID-1989.
/THE HONG ..........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
4
THE HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE WAS FORMED ON MAY 1, 1949, AS THE AIR ARM OF THE HONG KONG DEFENCE FORCE, OPERATING FOUR AUSTERS, FOUR HARVARDS AND FOUR SPITFIRES. THESE HAVE SINCE BEEN REPLACED BY A SERIES OF AIRCRAFT THAT HAS INCLUDED BEECHCRAFT TRAINERS, ISLANDER, BULLDOGS, CESSNA TITANS, BEECH SUPER KING AIRS AND SLINGSBY FIREFLY TRAINERS.
HELICOPTERS WERE ARRIVAL OF TWO WESTLAND FORCE HAS OPERATED BOTH LATTER CAME INTO SERVICE
FIRST BROUGHT INTO SERVICE IN 1958 WITH WIDGEONS, AND IN THE YEARS SINCE 1965
AEROSPATIALE ALOUETTES AND DAUPHINS. IN 1980 AND ARE STILL IN OPERATION.
THE THE THE
THE ROYAL HONG KONG DEFENCE FORCE WAS DISBANDED IN 1970 AND REPLACED BY THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE AND THE ROYAL HONG KONG REGIMENT — THE VOLUNTEERS.
IN MARCH 1979. THE '‘SQUADRON STANDARD" APPROVED BY HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN, WAS PRESENTED TO THE ROYAL HONG KONG AUXILIARY AIR FORCE BY HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, THE PRINCE OF WALES. TN THE SAME MONTH, THE PRESENT HEADQUARTERS IN KOWLOON BAY WAS OPENED TO REPLACE THE PREVIOUS HEADQUARTERS BASED AT RAF KAI TAK.
REMINDER ON SALE OF RHINOCEROS MEDICINE BAN t * t t t
TRADERS IN CHINESE HERBAL PRODUCTS AND MEDICINES ARE TODAY (SUNDAY) REMINDED THAT THE IMPORT, EXPORT OR POSSESSION OF MEDICINES WHICH CONTAIN OR CLAIM TO CONTAIN RHINOCEROS INGREDIENTS WILL BE BANNED FROM DECEMBER 1, 1989.
AMENDMENTS TO THE ANIMALS AND PLANTS (PROTECTION OF SPECIES) ORDINANCE, WHICH SEEK TO INTRODUCE MORI El l H II.NT THE TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES, WERE GAZETTED ON JULY 28.
ENDANGERED CONTROL ON 1 989 .
TRADERS AND TRADE ASSOCIATIONS WERE NOTH I ED AS EARLY AS FEBRUARY 1988 TO STOP FURTHER IMPORTS OF SUCH MEDH INE AND TO DISPOSE OF THEIR EXISTING STOCK.
THE SENIOR CONSERVATION OFFICER OF THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT. MR M.K. CHEUNG, ADVISED 'IHE TRADERS THAT IF THEY WERE STILL IN POSSESSION OF ANY SUCH MEDICINE. THEY MUST DISPOSE OF THEM BEFORE DECEMBER 1.
HE SAID: "ANY VIOLATION OF THE LEGISLATION WILL CARRY A MAXIMUM FINE Ol $25,009 FOR Till FIRST OFFENCE AND $50,000 FOR A REPEATED OFFENCE PLUS SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT.’’
MR CHEUNG ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE EXISTING SCHEDULES OF THE ORDINANCE ALREADY CONTROLLED A WIDE VARIETY OF F.NDANGERED SPECIES AS WELL THEIR PARTS AND DERIVATIVES, MANA OF WHICH MIGHT BE OF MEDICINAL VALUE.
/’’THESE INCLUDES ..........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
5
’’THESE INCLUDES CROCODILE MEAT, PANGOLIN MEAT OR SCALE, RHINOCEROS HORN OR HIDE, WILD GASTRODIA, AMERICAN GINSENG, MUSK, PITCH PLANTS AND OTHERS.
’’THE ORDINANCE HAS JURIADICTION OVER ANY SPECIMEN CLAIMED, REPRESENTED OR HELD OUT BY ANY PERSON, BY ADVERTISEMENT OR OTHERWISE TO BE A SCHEDULED SPECIES.
"UNDER THE ORDINANCE, IT IS AN OFFENCE TO IMPORT, EXPORT OR IN POSSESSION OF SCHEDULED SPECIMENS EXCEPT UNDER AND IN ACCORDENCE WITH A LICENCE ISSUED IN ADVANCE BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT. ’’
OTHER NEW MEASURES WHICH WILL BE EFFECTIVE ON DECEMBER 1 INCLUDE THE CONTROL OF ENDANGERED SPECIES IN TRANSIT AND THE PUNISHMENT FOR GIVING FALSE INFORMATION.
"ANY ENDANGERED SPECIES IN TRANSIT, INCLUDING CERTAIN PERSONAL ITEMS, WILL BE REQUIRED TO BE ACCOMPANIED BY A LICENCE, PERMIT, CERTIFICATE OR OTHER DOCUMENT FOR EXPORT, ISSUED BY A RELEVANT AUTHORITY OF THE EXPORTING COUNTRY.
"IN THE CASE OF A LIVING ENDAGERED SPECIES IN TRANSIT, THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES HAS TO BE NOTIFIED AT LEAST THREE WORKING DAYS PRIOR TO ITS ARRIVAL IN HONG KONG," MR CHEUNG SAID.
"A MAXIMUM FINE OF $10,000 WILL FOR GIVING FALSE INFORMATION TO OBTAIN CLAIMS IN RESPECT OF SCHEDULED SPECIES ADDED.
BE IMPOSED FOR THE FIRST A LICENCE AND MAKING AND CONTROLLED MEDICINES
TIME FALSE " HE
POSTER TO PUBLICISE ’TN TOUCH WITH REHABILITATION’ CAMPAIGN ♦ t t t »
A NEW POSTER DEPICTING TWO TALKING CHAIRS HAS BEEN PUT UP AT VARIOUS POSTER SITES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY BY THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT (SWD) TO PUBLICISE THE "IN TOUCH WITH REHABILITATION" CAMPAIGN WHICH WILL BE LAUNCHED ON DECEMBER 2 AT THE NEW WORLD PLAZA TN TSTM SHA TSUI.
EXPLAINING THE IDEA OF THE POSTER. A SWD SPOKESMAN DESCRIBED IT AS A DEPARTURE FROM THE CONVENTIONAL POSTER DESIGN.
"IN ORDER TO MAKE THE PUBLIC REGISTER THE MESSAGE OF INTEGRATION AT FIRST GLANCE. WE HAVE PERSONIFIED TWO OBJECTS. THE WHEELCHAIR REPRESENTS DISABLED PERSONS WHILE THE SIMPLE STRAIGHT-BACK WOODEN CHAIR REPRESENTS ABLE-BODIED PERSONS.
/’’THE CONCEPT ......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
6
"THE CONCEPT OF USING A WHEELCHAIR ALSO HAS A HIDDEN MESSAGE THAT, THOUGH A PERSON IS DISABLED. HE IS LIKELY TO BF ON THE WAY TO RECOVERY AND CAPABLE OF LOOKING AFTER HIMSELF IF CARE AND PROPER ASSISTANCE ARE RENDERED." HF SAID.
COMMENTING ON WHY A MODERN CHAIR WAS NOT CHOSEN FOR THE POSTER. THE SPOKESMAN SAID: "AN ELEGANT MODERN CHAIR WILL GIVE THE PUBLIC AN IMPRESSION THAT ABLE-BODIED PERSONS ARE A CLASS APART. IN ORDER TO DISPEL THIS MISCONCEPTION. WE HAVE DECIDED TO OPT FOR A SIMPLE BUT STRONG WOODEN CHAIR."
HOWEVER. THE MOST IMPORTANT MESSAGE IS HIDDEN IN THE "DIALOGUE" BETWEEN THE TWO CHAIRS.
"WE USE ONE SPEAKING BUBBLE INSTEAD OF TWO TO PUBLICISE THE SLOGAN OF 'SOMETIMES WE NEED HELP, ALWAYS WE CAN HELP’. IT INDICATES THAT BOTH DISABLED AND ABLE-BODIED PERSONS ARE SPEAKING THE SAME LANGUAGE. THEY CARE FOR EACH OTHER. AND THEY CAN SUPPLEMENT ' EACH OTHERS' NEEDS." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
CITING EMPLOYMENT AS AN EXAMPLE. HE SAID DISABLED PERSONS WOULD HELP TO SOLVE THE MANPOWER SHORTAGE PROBLEM IF THEY WERE INTEGRATED INTO THE COMMUNITY.
THE POSTER IS THE END PRODUCT OF WORK BY A TEAM OF DESIGNERS FROM THE SWIRE SCHOOL OF DESIGN OF THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC AFTER A SERIES OF DELIBERATIONS WITH THE SWD AND WELFARE AGENCY REPRESENTATIVES.
- - - - 0 - -
NORTH DB ON STUDY TOUR t * t t ♦
A DELEGATION COMPRISING NORTH DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS AND LOCAL DIGNITARIES WILL LEAVE FOR TOKYO TOMORROW (MONDAY) MORNING TO BEGIN AN FIGHT-DAY STUDY TOUR OF JAPAN AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA.
LED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN. MR RAYMOND PANG. AND ACCOMPANIED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICER. MR. WILLIAM HUI. THE 16-MEMBER DELEGATION WILL EXCHANGE VIEWS WITH GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS IN THE TWO COUNTRIES.
IN TOKYO. THE GROUP WILL MEET THE DEPUTY SECRETARY OF THE ELECTION ADMINISTRATION COMMISSION AND THE DIRECTOR OF M1NAMITAMA NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT OFFICE FOR BRIEFINGS ON METROPOLITAN ADMINISTRATION AND NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT.
THE PARTY WILL ALSO VISIT A SOCIAL WELFARE INSTITUTION, AND HAVE A LOOK AT TOKYO'S FOREST CONSERVATION WORK AND HOUSING DEVELOPMENT.
/THE DELEGATION ........
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
7
THE DELEGATION WILL CALL ON THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC AND TRADE OFFICE IN TOKYO TO OBTAIN A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF HONG KONG/JAPAN RELATIONS.
THE GROUP WILL THEN FLY TO SEOUL WHERE MEMBERS WILL VISIT AN ARTS CENTRE AND THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS.
THE DELEGATION WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON DECEMBER 4 (MONDAY).
DB TO DISCUSS CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL UTILISATION ♦ t t t t
THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS MEASURES TO IMPROVE THE UTILISATION OF THE EASTERN CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL AT ITS MEETING ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 28).
A DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER WILL ASK IF THE GOVERNMENT HAS REVIEWED CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL BUS ROUTES AND CONSIDERED DIRECTING MORE CROSS HARBOUR TUNNEL BUSES SERVING THE EASTERN NEW TERRITORIES TO USE THE NEW TUNNEL.
A QUESTION WILL BE RAISED ON THE POSSIBILITY OF SETTING UP A GRANDPARENT TAX ALLOWANCE.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS THE RECENT INCREASE IN BURGLARY CASES IN PRIVATE BUILDINGS IN SHA TIN.
THE PRACTICE IN SOME HOUSING ESTATES OF LOCKING UP DOORS LEADING TO THE ROOFS. WHICH IS INCONSISTENT WITH FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT POLICY. WILL BE SCRUTINISED.
• .. *'*
ALSO TO BE DISCUSSED ARE EFFECTIVE MEASURES TO IMPROVE TRAIN SERVICES BETWEEN SHA TIN AND KOWLOON.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD MEETING TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 28) TN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM ON THE SIXTH FLOOR. KCR HOUSE. SHA TIN STATION. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 9.30 AM.
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/8 ...........
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 26, 1989
8 CONCERT PROMOTES KEEP CLEAN MESSAGES ♦ ♦ t t t
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WERE URGED TO KEEP THE COUNTRYSIDE CLEAN IN A CONCERT HELD AT HOK TAU, PAT SIN LENG COUNTRY PARK TODAY (SUNDAY).
THE CONCERT WAS ORGANISED BY THE JOINT URBAN COUNCIL/REGlONAL COUNCIL KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE AS ONE OF THE MAJOR ACTIVITIES FOR THIS YEAR'S CLEAN COUNTRYSIDE CAMPAIGN.
"ABOUT THREE-QUARTERS OF HONG KONG’S 1,071 SQUARE KILOMETRES IS COUNTRYSIDE. TO ACHIEVE A CLEANER AND THUS BETTER ENVIRONMENT, KEEPING OUR COUNTRYSIDE CLEAN IS NOT TO BE NEGLECTED." A SPOKESMAN FOR THE COMMITTEE SAID.
ACCORDING TO STATISTICS. THE AMOUNT OF REFUSE COLLECTED IN COUNTRY PARKS EACH YEAR IS AROUND 4,000 TONNES - AS MUCH IN WEIGHT AS ABOUT 13 DOUBLE-DECK FERRIES OR 100 JUMBO DOUBLE-DECK BUSES.
"WE HOPE RESIDENTS WILL SHARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF KEEPING OUR COUNTRYSIDE CLEAN AFTER ENJOYING VARIOUS FACILITIES AT THE COUNTRY PARKS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
DURING THE CONCERT, THE AUDIENCE WAS REMINDED IN PARTICULAR OF THE NEED TO DISPOSE OF REFUSE PROPERLY IN THE LITTER BINS PROVIDED IN THE PARK AREAS.
"VISITORS TO THE COUNTRY PARKS ARE REQUESTED TO TAKE THE LITTER WITH THEM II LITTER BINS ARE NOT FOUND NEARBY, AND DROP IT IN THE LITTER BINS WHEN THEY COME ACROSS THEM LATER." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
IN THE 10 MONTHS ENDING OCTOBER, 641 PEOPLE WERE PROSECUTED FOR LITTERING IN THE COUNTRY PARKS.
TO FURTHER DRIVE HOME THE KEEP CLEAN MESSAGE. A NIW’LV PRODUCED API (ANNOUNCEMENT IN PUBLIC INTEREST) ON KEEPING THE (’OL’NTRYSIDE CLEAN WAS BEING BROADCAST ON TELEVISION, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
A POSTER WAS ALSO PRODUCED TO REINFORCE THE THEME OF "BE A SPORT ... PITCH IN AND KEEP OUR ('OL’NTRYSIDE CLEAN". HE SAID.
THE ONE-HOUR CONCERT WITH PERFORMANCES BY POPULAR SINGERS AND DISC JOCKEYS. WAS PRODUCED AND BROADCAST LIVE ON COMMERCIAL RADIO I.
OFFICIATING XT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE CONCERT WERE CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNTRY PARK BOARD AND MEMBER OF THE KEEP HONG KONG CLEAN STEERING COMMITTEE, MR CARLOS ( HEUNG HON-KAU; MEMBER. OF THE URBAN COUNCIL’S PUBLIC HEALTH SELECT COMMITTEE. MR LAM CHAK-PIU; AND DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, DR LAWRENCE LEE.
Z9 .........
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 26, 1989
9
THOUSANDS HAVE FUN AT SPORTS CARNIVAL * * * * *
THOUSANDS OF RESIDENTS TOOK PART IN A FUN-PACKED SPORTS CARNIVAL AT THE CHATER ROAD PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT IN CENTRAL THIS (SUNDAY) AFTERNOON.
THE CARNIVAL WAS ONE OF THE MAJOR ATTRACTIONS OF THE CURRENT CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
IT WAS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, THE DISTRICT BOARD, THE DISTRICT OFFICE, THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS ASSOCIATION.
OMELCO MEMBER MISS MARIA TAM: THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR AUGUSTINE CHUI; AND THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MR LIU LIT-FOR. WERE AMONG THE OFFICIATING GUESTS.
APART FROM TELEMATCHES, SEDAN CHAIR AND RICKSHAW RACES, THERE WERE DANCING, DRUM BAND PERFORMANCES, ACROBATIC ACTS, AS WELL AS RHYTHMIC GYMNASTIC AND CYCLING DEMONSTRATIONS BY GROUPS WHICH INCLUDED THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S ROYAL REGIMENT AND THE TRUE LIGHT GIRLS COLLEGE.
ISLANDERS GIVEN TRAFFIC SAFETY ADVICE *****
ROADS IN THE ISLANDS DISTRICT ARE FEW AND TRAFFIC CONDITIONS ARE THUS RELATIVELY PEACEFUL.
TRAFFIC IS LIGHT.
TN THE FIRST IO MONTHS THIS YEAR, 67 TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS
OCCURRED IN THE DISTRICT, CAUSING 89 INJURIES. SUCH FIGURES ARE PERHAPS THE LOWEST AMONG THE 19 DISTRICTS IN THE TERRITORY.
DESPITE THIS. THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICER, MR KIM SALKELD, TODAY (SUNDAY) WARNED THE PUBLIC AGAINST BEING COMPLACENT.
"EVERY VEHICLE USER AND PEDESTRIAN ON THE ISLANDS MUST NOT BECOME COMPLACENT BECAUSE COMPLACENCE LEADS TO CARELESSNESS AND CARELESSNESS KILLS," HE SAID.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE "ISLANDS DISTRICT TRAFFIC DAY", MR SALKELD SAID: "EVERY VEHICLE, FROM CARS AND BUSES TO BICYCLES AND VILLAGE TRUCKS, IF HANDLED CARELESSLY CAN KILL OR CAUSE INJURIES THAT WRECK LIVES.
"EVERY CARELESS PEDESTRIAN PUTS HIMSELF AND OTHERS AT RISK."
/MR SALKELD .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
10
MR SALKELD CALLED UPON VISITORS TO THE TRAFFIC HAZARDS SO THAT THEIR HOLIDAYS WOULD ACCIDENT.
HE ALSO URGED LOCAL ROAD USERS TO DISTRICT A SAFE PLACE.
ISLANDS TO BE ALERT TO
NOT BE MARRED BY AN
HELP KEEP THE ISLANDS
MR. SALKELD URGED MOTORISTS ON LANTAU TO KEEP TO THE SPEED LIMITS IMPOSED ON DIFFERENT SECTIONS OF SOUTH LANTAU ROAD BECAUSE THE ROAD WAS STRAIGHT AND DRIVERS WERE TEMPTED TO SPEED.
"FROM TIME TO TIME, THERE MAY BE ROAD WORKS BLOCKING ONE LANE OF THE ROAD, AND PARTICULAR ATTENTION MUST BE PAID TO THOSE CARELESS PEDESTRIANS CROSSING THE ROAD AND TO ANY STRAY CATTLE ON THE ROAD," HE SAID.
THE DISTRICT OFFICER ALSO APPEALED TO DRIVERS OF VILLAGE VEHICLES TO EXERCISE EXTRA CAUTION WHILE ON THE NARROW ALLEYS THAT PEDESTRIANS USED.
MORE THAN 500 PEOPLE FROM VARIOUS ISLANDS .JOINED THE "TRAFFIC SAFETY DAY" HELD AT THE NEW TERRITORIES HEUNG YEE KUK SOUTHERN DISTRICT SECONDARY SCHOOL IN MUI WO.
THEY WERE ENTERTAINED TO A POP MUSIC PERFORMANCE GIVEN BY THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES BAND AND ALSO TOOK PART IN GAME STALLS PUBLICISING ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES.
OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDED A FIRST AID DEMONSTRATION, DISPLAY OF ROAD SAFETY MATERIALS AND DISTRIBUTION OF SOUVENIR BOOKMARKS AND CALENDAR CARDS.
THE TRAFFIC SAFETY DAY WAS ORGANISED FOR THE FIRST TIME BY THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE TO REMIND ISLANDERS TO PAY ATTENTION TO ROAD SAFETY.
OTHER OFFICIATING GUESTS AT THE OPENING CEREMONY WERE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR LAM WAI-KEUNG, AND ISLANDS POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR WILLIAM WORRAL.
0 - - - -
/II ........
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 26, 1989
11
THOUSANDS ENJOY TAI PO ROAD SAFETY DAY * * * * ♦
THOUSANDS OF RESIDENTS IN TAI PO PARTICIPATED IN THE "TAI PO DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY DAY" HELD AT TAI PO PLAYGROUND THIS (SUNDAY) MORNING.
THE EVENT MARKED THE END OF THE THREE-MONTH TAI PO ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN. HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY WAS A PARADE BY A ROAD SAFETY TEAMS FORMED BY 100 PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN THE DISTRICT.
OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDED A MOBILE EXHIBITION ON ROAD SAFETY. A MOCK DRIVING EXERCISE FOR CHILDREN, A ROAD SAFETY QUIZ FOR CHILDREN AND STALL GAMES.
THE CONVENER OF THE WORKING GROUP ON TAI PO DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN, MR SO CHI-KEUNG. SAID HE HOPED THE EVENT WOULD ENABLE RESIDENTS IN TAI PO TO HAVE A BETTER KNOWLEDGE OF ROAD SAFETY.
HE ALSO HOPED THAT PARTICIPANTS OF THE EVENT WOULD HELP SPREAD ROAD SAFETY MESSAGES TO THEIR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES.
THE TAI PO ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN BEGAN IN SEPTEMBER. ACTIVITIES INCLUDED A ROAD SAFETY QUIZ FOR THE ELDERLY, SETTING UP WARNING SIGN BOARDS AT FOUR PEDESTRIAN CROSSING BLACK SPOTS IN THE DISTRICT, AND VISITS BY 800 PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS TO THE ROAD SAFETY TOWN IN SHA TIN.
OFFICIATING GUESTS AT TODAY’S FUNCTION INCLUDED THE TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICER. MR THOMAS YIU; CHAIRMAN OF THE TAJ PO DISTRICT BOARD. MR HO YUNG-SANG; DISTRICT POLICE COMMANDER, MR LEUNG FUNG-SHUN; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE, MR TANG PUT-TAT.
WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL CLOSES *****
A RHYTHMIC GYMNASTIC SHOW WAS HELD THIS (SUNDAY) EVENING TO MARK THE CLOSING OF THE 1989 WONG TAT SIN DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
THE SHOW. WHICH FEATURED PERFORMANCES BY TWO TEAMS FROM GUANGDONG, WAS HELD AT THE CHOI HUNG ROAD INDOOR GAMES HALL.
ABOUT 1,000 DISTRICT RESIDENTS WERE THRILLED BY THE PERFORMANCES OF THE TWO TEAMS, WHICH RANK HIGH IN RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS ON THE MAINLAND.
/SPEAKING AT .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
12
SPEAKING AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY OE THE FESTIVAL PRIOR TO THE SHOW, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE. MR ALBERT LI, SAID THE FESTIVAL HAD ACHIEVED ITS GOAL OF AROUSING RESIDENTS’ INTEREST IN PARTICIPATING IN SOCIAL ACTIVITIES AND ENHANCING THEIR SENSE OF BELONGING TO THE DISTRICT AS WELL AS PROMOTING ARTS, CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES.
HE NOTED THAT THE 30 EVENTS, WHICH WERE SPECIALLY DESIGNED TO SUIT THE INTEREST OF RESIDENTS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE, HAI) BEEN WELL RECEIVED.
"ALTHOUGH THE FESTIVAL IS OVER, ITS SPIRIT WILL CONTINUE TO PREVAIL IN THE DISTRICT AND RESIDENTS WILL BE WORKING TOGETHER TO BUILD A GOOD AND HARMONIOUS COMMUNITY," HE ADDED.
THE THREE-WEEK DISTRICT FESTIVAL WAS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD, THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION. THE URBAN COUNCIL, THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL, AND THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS COUNCIL, WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE SIK SIK YUEN.
THOSE OFFICIATING AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY INCLUDED WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, DR MICHAEL LEE: DISTRICT OFFICER. MR BRIAN LAL': URBAN COUNCILLOR, MR FUNG KWONG-CHUNG; CHAIRMAN OF THE WONG TAT SIN DISTRICT ARTS COUNCIL. MR YEUNG CHIU-MING; VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE WONG TAT SIN DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS COUNCIL, MR CHAN CHUN-FAT: AND VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE SIK SIK YUEN. MR LI YUEN-BING.
0
DISTRICT CHRISTMAS PARTY TICKETS ON SALE TOMORROW t t » t *
TICKETS FOR THIS YEAR’S CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT CHRISTMAS PARTY WILL BE ON SALE TOMORROW (MONDAY) AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE ON THE 11 TH FLOOR OF HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL.
A DISTRICT OFFICE SPOKESMAN TODAY (SUNDAY) REMINDED THE PUBLIC THAT ONLY 180 TICKETS. AT #50 PER ADULT OR #4 2 PER CHILD OR ELDERLY PERSON, WOULD BE AVAILABLE.
HE POTTED OUT THAT THE SAME NUMBER OF TICKETS PROVIDED FOR LAST YEAR'S PARTY WERE TAKEN UP WITHIN A DAY.
'AS IN 1988. PRIORITY WILL BE GIVEN TO FAMILY UNIT PARTICIPANTS INTENDING TO ENABLE THEM TO SHARE THE FUN OF THE FESTIVE SEASON," HE SAID.
/THE ANNUAL .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1Q8°
13
THE ANNUAL FUNCTION WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, AT THE CAINE ROAD CARITAS CENTRE, BEGINNING AT 7.30 PM. THERE WILL BE A BUFFET DINNER. GAMES. AND A LUCKY DRAW.
THE PARTY IS BEING JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE CHUNG WAN AREA COMMITTEE. WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE DISTRICT BOARD.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 5-8523499 OR 5-8523487.
0 -
SLOGAN AND COMIC DRAWING COMPETITIONS ON HOME SECURITY
******
SECONDARY STUDENTS IN EASTERN DISTRICT MAY EXPRESS THEIR IDEAS ABOUT HOME SECURITY IN SLOGANS AND TN COMIC STRIPS AND WIN THEMSELVES PRIZES IN TWO COMPETITIONS BEING ORGANISED BY THE EASTERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE.
THE COMIC DRAWING COMPETITION AND THE CHINESE SLOGAN COMPETITION. BOTH OF WHICH FORM PART OF THE DISTRICT’S FIGHT CRIME CAMPAIGN, ARE AIMED AT REMINDING YOUNG PEOPLE TO LOCK UP THEIR HOMES AND TO GUARD AGAINST BURGLARS.
BOTH COMPETITIONS ARE DIVIDED INTO TWO SECTIONS: THE JUNIOR SECONDARY SECTION FOR FORMS ONE TO THREE STUDENTS AND THE SENIOR SECONDARY SECTION FOR THOSE LN FORMS FOUR TO SEVEN.
STUDENTS TAKING PART IN THE COMIC DESIGN COMPETITION SHOULD SUBMIT THEIR ENTRIES ON PAPER MEASURING 21 CM BY 29.5 CM, WHILE THOSE IN THE SLOGAN COMPETITION SHOULD NOT USE MORE THAN 16 CHINESE CHARACTERS.
THE THREE TOP WINNERS IN EACH SECTION WILL BE AWARDED BOOK COUPONS WORTH $400, $200 AND $100 RESPECTIVELY, IN ADDITION TO TROPHIES.
THERE WILL ALSO BE FIVE CONSOLATION PRIZES IN EACH SECTION.
PARTICIPANTS SHOULD SEND IN THEIR ENTRIES TO THE EASTERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE AT THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, 880-886 KING’S ROAD BEFORE DECEMBER 5.
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ENTRIES INVITED FOR DANCE CONTEST *****
DANCE ENTHUSIASTS WILL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHOW OFF THEIR SKILLS IN A TERRITORY-WIDE CONTEST SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY NEXT YEAR.
THE 19TH OPEN DANCE CONTEST IS BEING JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT CULTURE AND RECREATION PROMOTION ASSOCIATION. THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICE, WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE KWUN TONG ROTARY CLUB.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID TODAY (SUNDAY) THAT THE ANNUAL CONTEST WAS AIMED AT PROMOTING INTEREST IN DANCING AND FOSTERING FRIENDSHIP AMONG PARTICIPANTS.
"THE CONTEST IS DIVIDED INTO CHILDREN’S, YOUTH’S AND OPEN SECTIONS. PARTICIPATING TEAMS CAN PERFORM A DANCE OF THEIR CHOICE, BE IT CHINESE, ORIENTAL, WESTERN OR MODERN STYLE," HE ADDED.
IT WILL BE HELD AT THE NGAU CHI WAN CIVIC CENTRE BETWEEN FEBRUARY 19 AND 22, AND GOLD. SILVER AND BRONZE TROPHIES WILL BE AWARDED TO OUTSTANDING TEAMS IN EACH SECTION. THE AWARD-WINNERS WILL BE INVITED TO PERFORM AT THE CITY HALL IN APRIL NEXT YEAR.
ENTRY FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT OFFICE IN TUNG YAN STREET. COMPLETED FORMS, TOGETHER WITH AN ENTRY REE OF $30, SHOULD BE RETURNED BY POST OR IN PERSON TO ROOM 309 OF THE DISTRICT OFFICE.
THE DEADLINE FOR ENTRY IS DECEMBER 30. TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 3-416315, EXT. 281.
TRANSPORT GUIDE ON SALE
*****
A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE ON HONG KONG’S PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES, COMPILED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT. IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE. GROUND FLOOR, GPO BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL.
THE ENGLISH PUBLICATION. ENTITLED "PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN HONG KONG - A GUIDE TO SERVICES 1989". COMPRISES TWO PARTS.
THE FIRST PART GIVES THE ROUTES, FARES, FIRST AND LAST DEPARTURE TIMES, FREQUENCY RANGE AND JOURNEY TIME OF ALL SCHEDULED PUBLIC TRANSPORT. INCLUDING GREEN MINIBUS AND "KAITO" SERVICES.
FOR FERRY OR BUS SERVICES WHOSE FREQUENCY IS OVER 60 MINUTES, THE WHOLE TIMETABLE IS GIVEN.
/THE SECOND .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
THE SECOND PART IS AN INDEX WITH PUBLIC TRANSPORT INFORMATION GROUPED ON AN AREA BASIS.
"BY CROSS-REFERENCING THE TWO PARTS. IT IS POSSIBLE TO IDENTIFY THE MOST CONVENIENT PUBLIC TRANSPORT MODES FOR ANY PARTICULAR JOURNEY." A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY ( SUNDAY).
THE SERVICES OF TAXIS AND RED PUBLIC LIGHT BUSES ARE NOT COVERED BY THE GUIDE BECAUSE THEY DO NOT OPERATE ON FIXED ROUTES AND SCHEDULES. NEVERTHELESS. A TABLE ON URBAN AND NEW TERRITORIES TAXI FARES IS ALSO INCLUDED.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THE GUIDE. AT #27 PER COPY. GENERALLY INDICATES THE POSITION OF THE PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORK IN JUNE THIS YEAR. AS THE NETWORK IS CONSTANTLY CHANGING TO MEET PASSENGER DEMAND. THE GUIDE ALSO GIVES TELEPHONE EQUIRY HOTLINES OF MAJOR PUBLIC TRANSPORT OPERATORS TO ENABLE COMMUTERS TO GET THE LATEST INFORMATION.
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS LAMMA PAVILION CONSTRUCTION
THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE WILL DISCUSS OBJECTIONS TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF A PAVILION ON LAMMA ISLAND AT A MEETING TOMORROW (MONDAY).
THE PROPOSED SITE FOR THE #110.000 PROJECT IS NEAR THE TELEPHONE EXCHANGE BUILDING AT PO WAH YUEN, NORTH LAMMA. AND OBJECTIONS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED AFTER A NOTICE WAS POSTED THERE BY THE ISLANDS DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO BF. INFORMED OF PROGRESS MADE ON VARIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS.
THEY WILL DISCUSS THE SUPPLY OF GRASS CUTTERS TO THE DISTRICT'S EIGHT RURAL COMMITTEES AND REVIEW A SITE VISIT TO TUNG CHUNG AND MUI WO ON LANTAU ON NOVEMBER 10.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE ISLANDS DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING TOMORROW (MONDAY) IN THE ISLAND DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, 20TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD. CENTRAL.
THF MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.
/16
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 26, 1989
16
NEU IDENTITY CARDS EOR MEN BORN IN 1936-40
MEN BORN IN 1936. 1937, 1938. 1939 OR 1940 ARE REQUIRED TO APPLY FOR NEW IDENTITY CARDS FROM TOMORROW (MONDAY) TO JANUARY 13.
MEN OF THE ABOVE AGE GROUP SHOULD CALL AT ANY ONE OF THE EIGHT NEW IDENTITY CARD ISSUE OFFICES DURING THIS PERIOD.
"THE NEW IDENTITY CARD ISSUE OFFICES ARE OPEN FROM 8 AM TO 9.30 PM DAILY. EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
"IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT THE ISSUE OFFICES WILL BE VERY CROWDED TN THE EVENINGS. TO AVOID HAVING TO QUEUE UP AT THE ISSUE OFFICES OR TO COME BACK ON ANOTHER DAY. APPLICANTS ARE ADVISED TO GO TO THESE OFFICES IN THE MORNINGS AND AFTERNOONS." HE ADDED.
APPLICANTS MAY ALSO 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
EAST KOWLOON
WEST KOWLOON
BASEMENT. 151 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI.
TEL. NO. 5-747070
AMOY PLAZA. SECOND FLOOR. 77 NGAU TAU KOK ROAD.
TEL. NO. 3-7553679
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 : SHOP 8A. SECOND FLOOR, CHANWAY SHOPPING CENTRE, 11-17, SHA TIN CENTRE STREET.
i TEL. NO. 0-6059108
YUEN LONG : HOP YICK CENTRE, SECOND FLOOR, 31 HOP YICK ROAD. TEL. NO. 0-4771543
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. 0-6727191
/"APPLICANTS NORMALLY .......
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1989
17
’’APPLICANTS NORMALLY NEED TO BRING ALONG THEIR EXISTING IDENTITY CARDS IF THEIR CARDS WERE FIRST REGISTERED NOT LESS 1 HAN SEVEN YEARS AGO AND BEAR THE ♦ ** SYMBOL." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"HOWEVER, IF THE APPLICANT’S IDENTITY CARD WAS FIRST REGISTERED LESS THAN SEVEN YEARS AGO OR DOES NOT HAVE THE *»♦ SYMBOL. HE IS REQUIRED TO FURNISH MORE PERSONAL PROOF.
"IN ADDITION TO PRODUCING HIS EXISTING IDENTITY CARD, HE MUST PRODUCE HIS TRAVEL DOCUMENT AND EITHER OF THE FOLLOWING (IF ANY) -HONG KONG BIRTH CERTIFICATE. HONG KONG NATURALISATION CERTIFICATE OR HONG KONG REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE.
"IN SOME CASES, APPLICANTS MAY BE REQUIRED TO PRODUCE ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE TO SUPPORT THEIR CLAIM TO HAVE THE RIGHT OF ABODE IN HONG KONG. IN SUCH CIRCUMSTANCES. THEY WILL BE ADVISED INDIVIDUALLY,” HE ADDED.
THE SPOKESMAN REITERATED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
- 0 - - - -
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN KOWLOON CITY ♦ t t t ♦
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT THE SECTION OF PENTLAND STREET TO THE SOUTH OF PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST IN KOWLOON CITY WILL BF TEMPORARILY CLOSED ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 28) FROM 2 PM TO 4 PM.
Till TEMPORARY CLOSURE IS TO FACILITATE THE OPENING CEREMONY 01 THF SIR RUN RUN SHAW HEART CENTRE.
LANE CLOSURE ON TUEN MUN ROAD ♦ * t t ♦
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT TO MAINTENANCE WORKS. THE THREE TRAFFIC LANES OF THE CARRIAGEWAY OF TUEN MUN ROAD NEAR YAU KOH TAU
FACILITATE ROAD TUEN MUN BOUND BRIDGE WILL BE
PARTIALLY CLOSED IN TURN FROM 9 PM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 28) TO 6 AM
ON DECEMBER 6.
CLOSURE OF TWO TRA TIC LANES WILL ONLY BE IMPLEMENTED AT NIGHT (9 PM TO 6 AM THI FOLLOW I NG DAY). ONE TRAFFIC LANE WILL BE CLOSED FOR THE REST OF THF CLOSURE PERIOD.
0
718
SUNDAY. NOVEMBER 26. 1989
18
SALT WATER CUT IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT *****
SALT WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 10 AM TO 4 PM ON TUESDAY (NOVEMBER 28) TO FACILITATE LEAKAGE TESTS AT THE ABERDEEN SALT WATER SERVICE RESERVOIR.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT THE PREMISES AT SHEK PAI WAN ESTATE, YUE FAI COURT. CHENGTU ROAD, ABERDEEN MAIN ROAD, TUNG SING ROAD, TSUNG MAN STREET, SAI ON STREET, WU PAK STREET, 162 - 178 OLD MAIN STREET ABERDEEN AND WONG CHUK HANG ROAD BETWEEN ABERDEEN TECHNICAL SCHOOL TO HOUSE NO. 63. TONG BIN LANE, AND YIP KAN STREET.
THE ABERDEEN POLICE STATION, HOUSE NOS. 2 - 50 OF HEUNG YIP ROAD. AND PREMISES AT YIP FAT STREET. WONG CHUK HANG ESTATE, WELFARE ROAD. NAM LONG SHAN ROAD, POLICE SCHOOL ROAD, OCEAN PARK ROAD, INCLUDING POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL, AND SHUM WAN ROAD WILL ALSO BE AFFECTED.
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 19P9
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
VITAL FOR HK TO MAINTAIN ECONOMIC POSITION: GOVERNOR ........ 1
NEW FIRE STATION IN TAI PO EAST ............................. J
APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR APPOINTMENT AS RECOGNISED DEALER ... 4
NEW MUSIC ADMINISTRATOR TAKES UP OFFICE...................... 5
MEASURES TO STRENGTHEN LIAISON WITF RESIDENTS' BODIES ....... 5
FIVE OZP'S REFERRED BACK FOR AMENDMENT....................... 7
COUNCIL TO SEND STUDY GROUP TO JAPAN ........................ 7
SAI KUNG RESIDENTS URGED TO GIVE BLOOD ...................... 8
NORTH DISTRICT DELEGATION LEAVES FOR STUDY TOUR ............. 10
'TUNNEL OF CARE' - AN EXPERIENCE OF HOW BLIND PEOPLE FRET, ... 10
DB TO DISCUSS PROPOSED FACILITIES ON WESTERN RECLAMATION .... 11
HOUSING FOR THE ELDERLY ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA............... 12
DB TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE MEETING TOMORROW ......... 12
JOINT COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE FEEDER BUS FARE COMPLAINT......... 1?
DB COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER FUND APPLICATIONS .................. 13
FREE CONCERTS FOR SOUTHERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS ............... 14
ROYAL COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY ESSAY COMPETITION ................ 15
THREE GOVT LOTS COME UNDER HAMMER ........................... 16
WATER STORAGE FIGURE........................................ 16
WATER CUT IN SHAM SHUT PO.................................... 16
CHANGE OF ADDRESS FOR IMMIGRATION SPB-DIVISION .............. 17
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27. 1989
VITAL FOR HK TO MAINTAIN ECONOMIC POSITION: GOVERNOR * * t * t
IT IS VITAL FOR HONG KONG’S FUTURE PROSPERITY THAT IT SHOULD BE ABLE TO MAINTAIN ITS POSITION AS ONE OF THE GREAT INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND FINANCE CENTRES, THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON. SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF THE 1 OTH INTERNATIONAL MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE OF THE ASIAN ASSOCIATION OF MANAGEMENT ORGANISATIONS, SIR DAVID SPOKE OF THREE PARTNERS IN HONG KONG’S GROWTH AS A WORLD CENTRE FOR VIGOROUS ENTERPRISE -- BUSINESSMEN, WORKERS AND GOVERNMENT.
HE SAID ALL THREE PARTNERS HAD COMBINED TO FOSTER. A STRONG TRADITION OF FREE ENTERPRISE AND SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEURSHIP. AND IT WAS THIS PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN BUSINESSMEN, GOVERNMENT AND THE COMMUNITY WHICH MUST WORK TO GUARANTEE HONG KONG’S FUTURE AS A MAJOR ECONOMIC POWER, THE WORLD'S 11 TH LARGEST ECONOMIC ENTITY.
NOTING THAT THE CONFERENCE HAD "ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND MANAGEMENT” AS ITS THEME, THE GOVERNOR COMMENTED: "IN HONG KONG YOU WILL FIND PLENTY OF BOTH IN ACTION”.
SIR DAVID SAID THAT HONG KONG, AS A SMALL CITY-ECONOMY WITH VERY LIMITED NATURAL RESOURCES, HAD TO IMPORT PRACTICALLY EVERYTHING IT CONSUMED, AND IT HAD TO EXPORT TO PAY FOR THESE IMPORTS.
"THAT MEANS COMPETITION WITH EVERYONE ELSE IN THE WORLD.
"THUS OUR VERY SURVIVAL DEPENDS ON THE INGENUITY OF OUR PEOPLE; THEIR ABILITY TO SEIZE OPPORTUNITIES AND THEIR WILLINGNESS TO ADJUST RAPIDLY TO CHANGING DEMANDS.
"AND IT IS THIS VERY QUALITY, WHAT ONE MIGHT CALL INGRAINED PRAGMATISM, THAT ACCOUNTS FOR HONG KONG’S REPUTATION AS A WORLD CENTRE FOR VIGOROUS ENTERPRISE," HE SAID.
THE GOVERNOR SAID ONE MEANS OF MAINTAINING HONG KONG'S POSITION LAY' IN CONTINUING TO PROVIDE AN INFRASTRUCTURE TO SUPPORT THE EFFICIENT CONDUCT OF BUSINESS.
ANOTHER PART OF THE ANSWER LAY IN THE VIGOROUS DEFENCE OF HONG KONG'S RIGHT TO TRADE OPENLY IN WORLD MARKETS.
BUT IN THE FINAL ANALYSIS MOST DEPENDED ON THE INGENUITY AND SKILL OF THE PEOPLE.
"HENCE OUR DETERMINATION TO CONTINUE TO INVEST IN EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING. THIS IS OF PARTICULAR IMPORTANCE AS OUR ECONOMY SHIFTS TOWARDS TECHNOLOGY-INTENSIVE EMPLOYMENT, TN BOTH MANUCTURTNG AND THE SERVICE INDUSTRIES," HE SAID.
/SIR DAVID .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
SIR DAVID DESCRIBED HOW INVESTORS AND EMPLOYERS HAD OVERCOME DIFFICULTIES THAT AROSE IN THE 1950’S AND SUCCEEDED IN CHANGING HONG KONG INTO A LARGE AND DIVERSIFIED MANUFACTURING BASE, BY ADAPTING THEMSELVES TO A MULTI-STOREY ENVIRONMENT AND BY CONCENTRATING THEIR PRODUCTION IN THOSE ACTIVITIES WHERE THEY HAD A REASONABLE CHANCE OF SUCCESS.
"OUR LABOUR FORCE, TOO, IS EQUALLY FLEXIBLE, PARTLY BECAUSE IT IS WILLING TO TAKE BAD TINES WITH THE GOOD WITHOUT RECOURSE TO RESTRICTIVE PRACTICES AND INDUSTRIAL ACTION, AND PARTLY BECAUSE
WORKERS ARE PREPARED TO SHIFT JOBS AND TRADES RAPIDLY," HF SAID.
THE GOVERNMENT HAD ALSO ADJUSTED TO RAPIDLY CHANGING
REQUIREMENTS.
"THE PHILOSOPHY THAT WE THE GOVERNMENT ADOPT IS THAT THE
GROWTH AND PERFORMANCE OF THE ECONOMY CAN ONLY BE DAMAGED IF WE TRY
TO PLAN THE ECONOMY CENTRALLY OR FRUSTRATE THE OPERATION OF MARKET FORCES.
"WE INTERVENE ONLY WHEN IT IS IN THE CLEAR LONG-TERM INTERESTS OF OUR ECONOMY OR SOCIETY TO DO SO," HE SAID.
THE GOVERNOR REFERRED TO THE PLANS HE ANNOUNCED LAST MONTH FOR MAJOR EXPANSION OF TERTIARY EDUCATION, UNDER WHICH DEGREE AND SUB-DEGREE PLACES WOULD BE PROVIDED FOR SOME 25 PER CENT OF SCHOOL LEAVERS BY 1991-95.
"THIS IS AN INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG’S FUTURE DEVELOPMENT AS IMPORTANT AS THE MASSIVE PLANS WHICH HAVE ALSO BEEN ANNOUNCED OVER THE PAST FEW WEEKS FOR DEVELOPING OUR PORT AND BUILDING A NEW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT," HE SAID.
FULL-TIME EDUCATION WAS ONLY PART OF THE PICTURE; AND AS SOME 80 PER CENT OF THE WORKFORCE FOR THE YEAR 2000 HAD ALREADY COMPLETED THEIR EDUCATION, SIR DAVID SAID, "SO THE PROVISION OF VOCATIONAL TRAINING IS ALSO VITAL FOR OUR FUTURE PROSPERITY."
REFERRING TO THE 100,000 PLACES BEING PROVIDED BY THE VOCATIONAL TRAINING COUNCIL AND OTHER TRAINING AUTHORITIES AT PRESENT, HE SAID THESE FACILITIES WOULD NEED TO BE CONSTANTLY UPGRADED TO KEEP PACE WITH TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE.
"AS WE ENTER THE 1990’S, WE WILL HAVE TO MAKE SURE THAT OUR VOCATIONAL TRAINING SYSTEM CAN PROVIDE ADEQUATE TRAINING THAT GOES BEYOND THE CONVENTIONAL LECTURE HALL AND WORKSHOP.
"WE AIM TO SET UP A TRAINING PROGRAMME WITH OVERSEAS WORKING ATTACHMENTS, SPECIFICALLY7 FOR MID-CAREER MANAGERS. TO LET THEM LEARN AT FIRST-HAND NEW PROCESSES AND TECHNOLOGIES THAT CANNOT BE TAUGHT IN A CLASSROOM," HE SAID.
/IN ADDITION, ........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27i 1989
IN ADDITION, THE GOVERNMENT WAS PLANNING TO CREATE A NEW TECHNOLOGIES TRAINING FUND WHICH WOULD PROVIDE LOANS TO COVER THE COST OF THIS NEW TRAINING SCHEME.
"THIS IS BUT ONE MORE EXAMPLE OF THE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN BUSINESSMEN, GOVERNMENT AND THl COMMUNITY TO MAINTAIN r ATFD
POSITION AS A DYNAMIC ECONOMY WITH A SKILLED AND SOPHISTICATED WORKFORCE,” HE SAID.
- 0 - -
NEW FIRE STATION IN TAI PO EAST *****
RESIDENTS OF TAI PO ARE GLAD TO SEE THE PROVISION OF A NEW FIRE STATION IN TAI PO EAST TO ENHANCE FIRE PROTECTION IN THE DISTRICT, THE CHAIRMAN OF THE TAI PO DISTRICT BOARD, MR DAVID HO YUNG-SANG, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE TAI PO EAST FIRE STATION, MR HO SAID THERE WAS AN OBVIOUS NEED FOR THIS ADDITIONAL FIRE STATION.
"THE GROWTH OF POPULATION IN THE DISTRICT, THE EXPANSION OF THE NEW TOWN AND DEVELOPMENTS IN TAI PO INDUSTRIAL ESTATE IN RECENT YEARS HAVE BROUGHT ABOUT A CORRESPONDING INCREASE IN DEMAND FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES," HE SAID.
"BESIDES, TAT PO DISTRICT HAS LARGE PATCHES OF WOODLANDS WHERE HILL FIRES FREQUENTLY OCCUR DURING THE DRY SEASON."
MR HO RECALLED THAT TAI PO WAS ONCE A SPARSELY POPULATED DISTRICT WHERE THERE WERE VERY FEW SERIOUS FIRES.
"SHOULD THERE BE ANY FIRE, FIREMEN WOULD ARRIVE QUICKLY AND SPARE NO EFFORTS IN PUTTING IT OUT," HE SAID.
"THAT IS WHY FIREMEN HAVE ALL ALONG BEEN RESPECTED BY LOCAL RESIDENTS FOR THEIR PROFESSIONALISM, COURAGE AND HARD WORK."
HE HOPED THAT STAFF OF THE NEW FIRE STATION WOULD CONTINUE TO PROVIDE LOCAL RESIDENTS A HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL AND DEDICATED SERVICE.
THE TAI PO EAST FIRE STATION WILL SERVE TAI PO INDUSTRIAL ESTATE AND NEARBY VILLAGES AS WELL AS THE PAT SIN RANGE AND PLOVER COVE COUNTRY PARKS.
- - 0 -
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR APPOINTMENT AS RECOGNISED DEALER
******
ANOTHER STEP HAS BEEN TAKEN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EXCHANGE FUND BILLS PROGRAMME, THE SECRETARY FOR MONETARY AFFAIRS, MR DAVID NENDICK, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
"THE MONETARY AFFAIRS BRANCH IS READY TO RECEIVE APPLICATIONS FOR APPOINTMENT AS RECOGNISED DEALER," HE SAID.
"WE ARE ISSUING WRITTEN INVITATIONS TO ALL BANKS AND DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES AND EXPECT THE FIRST APPLICATIONS TO BE SUBMITTED TN THE NEXT FEW DAYS."
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CRITERIA LAID DOWN BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY IN HIS SPEECH TO THE HONG KONG CAPITAL MARKETS ASSOCIATION ON AUGUST 21, LICENSED BANKS AND LICENSED DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES WILL NORMALLY QUALIFY FOR APPOINTMENT.
REGISTERED DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES WILL NORMALLY BE ACCEPTED FOR APPOINTMENT ONLY IF THEY ARE BANK-OWNED OR HAVE A PAID-UP CAPITAL OF NOT LESS THAN $100 MILLION. APPLICATIONS FROM OTHER INSTITUTIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED ON THEIR MERITS.
"THEY WILL HAVE TO SATISFY US THAT THEY SHOULD QUALIFY, HAVING REGARD TO THEIR CAPITAL ADEQUACY, THEIR ACTIVITY IN THE HONG KONG DOLLAR MONEY MARKET AND THEIR CREDIT STANDING," MR NENDICK SAID.
"IF ACCEPTED, THEY WILL HAVE TO BE BROUGHT UNDER PROPER SUPERVISION AND REGULATION," HE ADDED.
RECOGNISED DEALERS WILL BE ALLOWED TO SUBMIT BIDS IN THE WEEKLY TENDERS FOR EXCHANGE FUND BILLS WHICH ARE EXPECTED TO START IN A FEW MONTHS’ TIME.
SOME OF THE RECOGNISED DEALERS WILL BE INVITED TO BECOME MARKET MAKERS. MARKET MAKERS WILL BE OBLIGED TO QUOTE BID AND OFFER PRICES FOR THE BILLS DURING NORMAL MONEY MARKET HOURS.
THE MONETARY AFFAIRS BRANCH WILL BUY AND SELL BILLS IN THE SECONDARY MARKET ONLY THROUGH MARKET MAKERS AND WILL ACT AS A LAST RESORT SUPPLIER AND LENDER OF BILLS TO MARKET MAKERS.
THE EXCHANGE FUND BILLS ARE DESIGNED TO SERVE AS AN ADDITIONAL INSTRUMENT FOR CONDUCTING MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS. THEY WILL THEREFORE BE FOR THE ACCOUNT OF THE EXCHANGE FUND AND NOT THE GENERAL REVENUE.
THE INTENTION TO DEVELOP A PROGRAMME OF SHORT TERM EXCHANGE FUND BILLS WAS ANNOUNCED BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY IN HIS BUDGET SPEECH ON MARCH 1 THIS YEAR.
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/5........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
- 5 -
NEW MUSIC ADMINISTRATOR TAKES UP OFFICE * * * *
MRS AGNES ALLCOCK, A FORMER PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY WITH THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION, HAS TAKEN UP THE POST OF MUSIC ADMINISTRATOR OF THE MUSIC OFFICE WITH EFFECT FROM TODAY (MONDAY 1 .
MRS ALLCOCK WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OVERALL MANAGEMENT OF POLICY AND OPERATIONAL MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE MUSIC OFFICE, AS WELL AS THE PROMOTION OF INTEREST IN MUSIC AMONG THE PUBLIC IN HONG KONG.
AGED 36, MRS ALLCOCK JOINED THE CIVIL SERVICE AS A POLICE INSPECTOR IN 1974. AFTER GRADUATING FROM THE LAW SCHOOL OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG IN 1980, SHE WAS TRANSFERRED TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE AND HAS SINCE WORKED IN A NUMBER OF DEPARTMENTS AND BRANCHES.
HER PREVIOUS POSTINGS INCLUDED SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT. ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE AND ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECUR ITY (NARCOTICS).
-------o--------
MEASURES TO STRENGTHEN LIAISON WITH RESIDENTS’ BODIES t « » t t
THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE AND DISTRICT BOARD HAVE INTRODUCED A SERIES OF MEASURES TO STEP UP LIAISON WITH MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS TO ENCOURAGE MORE PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS, THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICER, MR GARY YEUNG, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
MR YEUNG WAS SPEAKING AT A DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SEMINAR ORGANISED FOR MEMBERS OF AREA COMMITTEES, MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS IN SHAU KEI WAN AND QUARRY BAY.
A TOTAL OF 637 MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS, REPRESENTING A WIDE CROSS-SECTION OF THE POPULATION, HAD BEEN FORMED THROUGHOUT EASTERN DISTRICT, HE NOTED.
MR YEUNG SAID THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD HAD SET ASIDE 5300,000 IN THE YEAR 1989-90 FOR LOCAL ORGANISATIONS TO ORGANISE COMMUNITY BUILDING ACTIVITIES.
TO ENCOURAGE MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS TO ORGANISE MORE RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR THEIR MEMBERS, THE BOARD HAD RECENTLY MADE AMENDMENTS TO THE FUND-VETTING GUIDELINES, HE SAID.
/REGARDING BUILDING .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
- 6 -
REGARDING BUILDING MANAGEMENT PROBLEMS WHICH ARE A MAJOR AREA OF CONCERN TO THESE RESIDENTS’ BODIES, MR YEUNG SAID THE DISTRICT OFFICE’S BUILDING MANAGEMENT CO-ORDINATION TEAM HAD STARTED REGULAR DISCUSSION SESSIONS WITH OFFICE-BEARERS OF THESE BODIES.
MEETINGS WERE HELD AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE’S THREE SUB-OFFICES ON A QUARTERLY BASIS TO PROVIDE EXPERT ADVICE ON BUILDING MANAGEMENT, HE SAID.
THE DISTRICT OFFICE ALSO PLANNED TO ORGANISE SEMINARS AND TRAINING COURSES TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR RESIDENTS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT WAYS TO EFFECTIVELY MANAGE THEIR PROPERTIES.
MR YEUNG NOTED THAT OVER 40 COMMUNITY ORGANISERS WERE EMPLOYED BY THE DISTRICT OFFICE TO STRENGTHEN COMMUNICATION WITH RESIDENTS’ BODIES.
TURNING TO FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE, MR YEUNG SAID MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES COULD CLAIM UP TO $700 EACH QUARTER AS DAILY ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES OF THEIR OFFICES.
THE SIR DAVID TRENCH FUND FOR RECREATION AND THE CHINESE CHARITIES FUND ALSO PROVIDED SUBSIDIES TO MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS FOR PURCHASING RECREATIONAL AND SPORTS EQUIPMENT . -.'ELL AS FOR ORGANISING COMMUNITY PROJECTS, HE SAID.
"DISTRICT BOARDS, AREA COMMITTEES, AND MUTUAL AID COMMITTEES \ND OWNERS' CORPORATIONS HAVE OVER THE PAST YEARS DEVELOPED INTO A CLOSELY-KNITTED STRUCTURE IN THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SCHEME," MR 'El'NG SAID.
HE CALLED ON RESIDENTS TO ACTIVELY PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY \FFAIRS TO ENSURI THAT THE GOVERNMENT FUNCTIONED EFFECTIVELY AT THE DISTRICT LEVEL. TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE SPECIFIC NEEDS OF INDIVIDUAL DISTRICTS.
TODAY'S SEMINAR WAS THE FIRST IN DISTRICT OFFICE TO PROVIDE A FORUM OMMITTEES AND OWNERS’ CORPORATIONS TO MATTERS.
A SERIES ORGANISED BY THE FOR MEMBERS OF MUTUAL AID EXCHANGE VIEWS ON DISTRICT
TWO MORE SEMINARS WILL BE HELD NEXT MONTH AND IN JANUARY’ FOR RESIDENTS IN CHAI WAN. CAUSEWAY BAY AND NORTH POINT.
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/7........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
- 7 -
EIVE OZ.P’S REFERRED BACK FOR AMENDMENT » » t t
THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL HAS REFERRED FIVE APPROVED OUTLINE ZONING PLANS BACK TO THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD FOR AMENDMENT.
THEY ARI THE OUTLINE ZONING PLANS FOR CENTRAL DISTRICT, CAUSEWAY BAY, NORTH POINT, LAI CHI KOK AND TUEN MUN.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE BOARD SAID TODAY (MONDAY) THAT IN ORDER TO KEEP ABREAST WITH CHANGES IN PLANNING PROPOSALS IN THE FIVE AREAS, AMENDMENTS TO THESE PLANS WOULD BE NECESSARY.
THE FIRST THREE PLANS WILL MAINLY BE AMENDED TO INCORPORATE THE PROPOSED RECLAMATION ALONG THE WATERFRONT FROM CENTRAL TO CAUSEWAY BAY.
THE LAI CHI KOK OUTLINE ZONING PLAN WILL BE AMENDED TO INCORPORATE THE LATEST LAND USE PROPOSALS FOR CONTAINER TERMINAL NO. 7 AND THE ADJACENT BACK-UP AREAS.
AMENDMENTS TO THE TUEN MUN OUTLINE ZONING PLAN WILL LIKELY INCLUDE LAND USE REVISIONS FOR AREA 38 TO THE EAST OF TAP SHEK KOK POWER STATION FOR PORT FACILITIES AND OTHER SPECIAL INDUSTRIES.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT ANY FUTURE AMENDMENTS TO THE PLANS WOULD BE EXHIBITED FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION AND OBJECTIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE TOWN PLANNING ORDINANCE.
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COUNCIL TO SEND STUDY GROUP TO JAPAN « t * » »
THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COUNCIL WILL SEND A DELEGATION TO JAPAN EARLY NEXT Y’EAR TO LEARN FROM THE COUNTRY’S EXPERIENCES AND OPERATION IN PROMOTING OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH.
THE DECISION WAS MADE AT THE COUNCIL’S MEETING TODAY (MONDAY). MEMBERS AGREED THAT THE VISIT WILL HELP IDENTIFY AND DETERMINE THE FUTURE DIRECTION AND EMPHASIS OF THE COUNCIL.
DURING THE WEEK-LONG STAY IN JAPAN, THE DELEGATION WILL MEET MEMBERS OF THE JAPAN INDUSTRI AI. SAFETY AND HEALTH ASSOCIATION, WHICH IS THE COUNTRY'S MOST FAMOUS AND BEST ORGANISED NON-GOVERNMENT SAFETY ASSOCIATION.
AT TODAY’S MEETING, THE COUNCIL ALSO APPROVED THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH EMPLOYEES’ PARTICIPATION SCHEME AIMED AT FURTHER AROUSING PUBLIC INTEREST IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH BY INVOLVING PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE IN THE WORK OF IMPROVING THE
GENERAL STANDARD OF SAFETY IN THE TERRITORY.
/THE SCHEME
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
- 8 -
THE SCHEME WILL PROVIDE FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR SAFETY ANT) HEALTH FUNCTIONS ORGANISED BY EMPLOYEES.
APPLICATIONS WILL BE INVITED FROM LOCAL ORGANISATIONS, EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTES, TRADE UNIONS AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO PARTICIPATE IN THE SCHEME.
ANOTHER ITEM OF TODAY'S MEETING WAS THE APPOINTMENT OF MR OHAN WAI-LUN AS CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNCIL’S CATERING TRADE SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE. MR CHAN WAS FROM THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE MANAGEMENT AND PROFESS IONAL ASSOCIATION.
NINETEEN MEMBERS WERE ALSO APPOINTED TO THE COMMITTEE.
THE MEETING ALSO DISCUSSED AMENDMENTS TO THE TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE RESEARCH AND EDUCATION COMMITTEE. UNDER THE REVISED TERMS, THE COMMITTEE WILL, AMONG OTHER THINGS, "ADVISE THE COUNCIL ON PRIORITIES AND STRATEGIES FOR RESEARCH AND EDUCATION IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH".
IT WILL ALSO "INITIATE AND PROMOTE EDUCATION AND TRAINING CONFERENCES AND PROGRAMMES FOR EMPLOYEES, EMPLOYERS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC, SUCH ACTIVITIES TO BE CO-ORDINATED, AND IN-CO-OPERATIONS WITH OTHER COMMITTEES THROUGH THE COUNCIL".
OTHER MATTERS DISCUSSED AT TODAY’S MEETING INCLUDED REPORTS BY THE CHAIRMEN OF THE COUNCIL’S VARIOUS COMMITTEES. THE COUNCIL’S BUDGET PROPOSAL FOR 1990-91. THE APPOINTMENT OF A LEGAL ADVISER TO THE COUNCIL, AND STAFFING AND ADMINISTRATION.
-----0-----
SAI KUNG RESIDENTS URGED TO GIVE BLOOD
*****
THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR FREDERICK TONG, TODAY (MONDAY) CALLED ON RESIDENTS IN THE DISTRICT TO GIVE BLOOD ON THE "SAI KUNG BLOOD DONATION DAY" ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 30) AND FRIDAY (DECEMBER 1).
"GIVING BLOOD TO THE NEEDY DEMONSTRATES ONE’S CONCERN FOR OTHERS," MR TONG SAID.
"IT IS HOPED THAT THROUGH THIS MEANINGFUL AND EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY, A GREATER SENSE OF CtV IC-MINDEDNESS WOULD BE CULTIVATED AMONG RESIDENTS," HE SAID.
MR TONG SAID IT TOOK ONLY 10 MINUTES TO COMPLETE DONATION PROCESS, WHICH WAS PAINLESS AND HARMLESS TO THE COULD HELP SAVE A PERSON’S LIFE.
THE BLOOD
DONOR BUT
/IN SUPPORT .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
IN SUPPORT OF THE FIRST YOUTH FESTIVAL IN Till' TERRITORY NEXT MONTH, MR TONG MADE A SPECIAL APPEAL TO YOUNG PEOPLI TN SAI KUNG TO GIVE BLOOD.
THE THEME OF THE YOUTH FESTIVAL IS "WE ARE HONG KONG". IT AIMS AT INDUCING A SENSE OF COMMITMENT AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE TOWARDS BUILDING A BETTER HONG KONG WITH THEIR ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.
THE "SAI KUNG BLOOD DONATION DAY" IS CO-ORGANISED BY THE SAI KUNG CIVIC EDUCATION PROMOTION COMMITTEE AND THE HONG KONG RED CROSS BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE, WITH SPONSORSHIP FROM THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD.
DURING THE BLOOD DONATION EXERCISE, BLOOD DONATION CENTRES WILL BE SET UP AT CARMEL DIVINE GRACE FOUNDATION SECONDARY SCHOOL IN PO LAM ESTATE AND TSUI LAM COMMUNITY HALL IN TSEUNG KWAN 0 ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 30); AND AT CHENG CHEK CHEE SECONDARY SCHOOL IN HANG HAU, RENNIE'S MILL MIDDLE SCHOOL IN T1U KENG LENG AND SAI KUNG JOCKEY CLUB TOWN HALL IN SAI KUNG TOWN ON FRIDAY (DECEMBER. 1).
TRANSPORT FACILITIES WILL BE PROVIDED FROM 5.15 PM TO 9.15 PM ON THURSDAY TO TAKE RESIDENTS OF PO LAM ESTATE TO TSUI LAM COMMUNITY HALL TO DONATE BLOOD.
THOSE WISHING TO GIVE BLOOD ARE REMINDED THAT THEY SHOULD INFORM THE NURSES ON DUTY BEFOREHAND OF ANY RECENT INOCULATION OR VACCINATION.
AS A TOKEN OF THANKS, EACH DONOR WILL RECEIVE A T-SHIRT AND A DIARY FROM THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT CIVIC EDUCATION PROMOTION COMMITTEE.
A CEREMONY WILL BE HELD ON DECEMBER 1 TO MARK THE OCCASION. THE OFFICIATING GUESTS WILL INCLUDE THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR FREDERICK TONG; SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR WILLIAM WAN; THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR (NEW TERRITORIES EAST) OF THE HOSPITAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, DR SUSAN CHAN; TV ARTISTE MISS YU YEE-HA; AND THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE HONG KONG RED CROSS BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE, DR RAYMOND CHU.
ENQUIRIES ON THE SAI KUNG BLOOD DONATION DAY CAN BE DIRECTED TO MISS SUSAN YEUNG OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICE DURING OFFICE HOURS ON TEL. 3-702371)9.
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/1O........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27. 1989
10
NORTH DISTRICT DELEGATION LEAVES FOR STUDY TOUR ♦ ♦ * t t
A NORTH DISTRICT DELEGATION COMPRISING DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS AND LOCAL DIGNITARIES LEFT HONG KONG THIS (MONDAY) MORNING FOR AN EIGHT-DAY STUDY TOUR OF JAPAN AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA.
LED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR RAYMOND PANG, AND ACCOMPANIED BY THF DISTRICT OFFICER. MR WILLIAM HUI, THE 16-MEMBER DELEGATION WILL VISIT TOKYO AND SEOUL, THE CAPITALS OF THE TWO COUNTRIES.
IN TOKYO, THE GROUP WILL HAVE A GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION AS WELL AS NEW SOCIAL WELFARE AND FOREST CONSERVATION.
FIRST-HAND LOOK AT LOCAL
TOWN DEVELOPMENT, HOUSING.
THE GROUP WILL ALSO MEET THE CHIEF HONG KONG ECONOMIC AND TRADE REPRESENTATIVE IN TOKYO, MR LEE LAP-SUN, FOR A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF HONG KONG/JAPAN RELATIONS.
WHILE IN SEOUL, THE DELEGATION WILL VISIT AN ARTS CENTRE AND THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS.
THE GROUP WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON DECEMBER 4.
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'TUNNEL OF CARE’ - AN EXPERIENCE OF HOW BLIND PEOPLE FEEL » * t » t t
VISITORS TO THE "IN TOUCH WITH REHABILITATION" EXHIBITION NEXT MONTH WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE HOW BLIND PEOPLE FEEL.
THE OPPORTUNITY WILL BE PROVIDED BY A "TUNNEL OF CARE" WHICH IS THE MAIN FEATURE OF THE EXHIBITION. JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE.
THE THREE-DAY EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD BETWEEN DECEMBER 2 AND 4 AT THE NEW WORLD PLAZA, TSIM SHA TSUI.
A SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED TODAY (MONDAY) THAT THE "TUNNEL OF CARE" IS 20 METRES LONG. ITS SPECIAL DESIGN WILL ENABLE EXHIBITION VISITORS TO WALK THROUGH IN DARKNESS.
"DURING THE FIVE-MINUTE WALK, VISITORS WILL EXPERIENCE A SITUATION SIMILAR TO TOTAL BLINDNESS.
"SOUND EFFECTS. SUCH AS TRAFFIC IN THE MAIN THOROUGHFARES, FALLING OBJECTS, JACK-HAMMERS AND WATERFRONT SOUNDS WILL BE BROADCAST INSIDE THE TUNNEL. IT WIL), PROVIDE VISITORS A CHANCE TO SENSE POSSIBLE DANGER IN A REAL SITUATION AND HOW TO REACT IF THEY WERE BLIND.
/"WE HOPE .......
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
"WE HOPE THE GENERAL PUBLIC, PARTICULARLY THOSE WHO HAVE WALKED THROUGH THE 'TUNNEL OF CARE’, HAVE AN ACTUAL EXPERIENCE OF ’BEING BLIND’ SO THAT THEY WILL CARE MORE FOR DISABLED COUNTERPARTS IN THEIR DAILY LIFE." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
VISITORS WILL ALSO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE BEING WHEELCHAIR-BOUND.
A RAMP WILL BE BUILT AT THE EXHIBITION HALL TO ENABLE VISITORS TO MANOEUVRE VARIOUS TYPES OF WHEELCHAIRS.
THEY WILL ALSO BE ABLE TO TRY DIFFERENT AIDS AND EQUIPMENT FOR DISABLED PERSONS.
OTHER FEATURES IN THE EXHIBITION WILL INCLUDE A VIDEO WALL, INFORMATION AND DISPLAY ON PRE-SCHOOL. ADULT, PREVOCATION AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING, AND VARIOUS REHABILITATION SERVICES FOR DISABLED PERSONS.
"WE HOPE THE EXHIBITION WILL HELP MAKE THE PUBLIC MORE AWARE THAT DISABLED PERSONS ARE MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY AND THAT THEY NEED OUR CARE.
"WITH OUR CARE AND CONCERN THEY CAN BE INTEGRATED INTO THE COMMUNITY AND CONTRIBUTE TO-SOCIETY," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
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DB TO DISCUSS PROPOSED FACILITIES ON WESTERN RECLAMATION t t t t t
THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 29) TO DISCUSS THE PROPOSED PARKLAND AND INDOOR GAMES HALL ON Till WESTERN RECLAMATION.
THE COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT. MR GORDON STU, AND DIRECTORATE OFFICERS FROM VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS, INCLUDING THE HIGHWAYS. URBAN SERVICES, ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES, BUILDINGS AND LANDS, MARINE AND TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENTS. HAVE BEEN INVITED TO ADDRESS THE MEETING.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT BOARD SPECIAL MEETING TO BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 29), BEGINNING AT 2.30 I’M IN ROOM 1416, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD. CENTRA!.
- 0 - -
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27. 1989
12
HOUSING FOR THE ELDERLY ON DB COMMITTEE AGENDA
i t * * *
THE COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE OF THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE REPORT OF THE WORKING GROUP ON HOUSING FOR THE ELDERLY AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
MEMBERS WILL GIVE THEIR VIEWS ON HOW RECOMMENDATIONS AND PROPOSALS IN THE REPORT CAN BEST BE CARRIED OUT AT THE DISTRICT LEVEL.
THE MEETING WILL ALSO BE INFORMED OF THE BACKGROUND AND ACTIVITIES 01 THE HONG KONG PLAYGROUND ASSOCIATION.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE MONG KOK DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, FIRST FLOOR, 157 PRINCE EDWARD ROAD. KOWLOON. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
- - 0 - -
DB TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE MEETING TOMORROW t ♦ t t t ♦
Till WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE WILL TAKE NOTE OF THE VIEWS EXPRESSED EARLIER BY AREA COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN ON THE DRAFT 1990-91 PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME FOR THE DISTRICT AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY) .
OTHER AGENDA ITEMS INCLUDE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT MATTERS DISCUSSED AT MEETINGS OF AREA COMMITTEES, A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT INJURY REPORT OF THE DISTRICT AND A PROGRESS REPORT ON PROJECTS UNDERTAKEN BY THE COMMITTEE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE WONG TAI SIN DISTRICT BOARD’S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE, WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, FOURTH FLOOR, SAN PO KONG GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, KING FUK STREET.
/13
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
- 15 -
JOINT COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE FEEDER BUS FARE COMPLAINT
*♦*«:*»
THE TUEN MUN/YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARDS’ JOINT COMMITTEE ON MONITORING LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT (LRT) SERVICES WILL EXAMINE A COMPLAINT ABOUT FARES CHARGED ON AN LRT FEEDER BUS ROUTE AT THE COMMITTEE'S MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
MEMBERS WILL DISCUSS A PROPOSAL THAT LRT PASSENGERS BE PROVIDED WITH FRIT' FEEDER BUS SERVICES AT MORI STATIONS.
AT PRESENT, THOSE WHO WISH TO TAKE THE FEEDER BUS ROUTE 521 FREE-OF-CHARGE MUST BOARD THE BUS AT THE TOWN CENTRE STATION, RESULTING IN OVERCROWDING AT THE STATION.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE TUEN MUN/YUEN LONG DISTRICT BOARDS’ JOINT COMMITTEE ON MONITORING LRT SERVICES TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY), BEGINNING AT 10 AM IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT BOARD, THIRD FLOOR, TUEN MUN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 1 TUEN HI ROAD.
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DB COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER FUND APPLICATIONS t * » t *
THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE WILL CONSIDER 17 APPLICATIONS FOR. FUNDS FOR ORGANISING COMMUNITY BUILDING PROJECTS IN THE DISTRICT AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
MEMBERS WILL ALSO LOOK AT THE FINANCIAL POSITION OF THE COMMITTEE AND THE DISTRICT BOARD.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY), BEGINNING AT 10 AM IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM, SECOND FLOOR. SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 34 CHAN MAN STREET. SAI KUNG TOWN.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
14
FREE CONCERTS FOR SOUTHERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS * * * * *
SOUTHERN DISTRICT RESIDENTS WILL BE TREATED TO THREE CONCERTS, IN ADDITION TO A VARIETY OF OTHER ACTIVITIES, DURING THE LAST WEEK OF THE MONTH-LONG DISTRICT FESTIVAL WHICH CLOSES ON SUNDAY.
ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 29), THE HONG KONG CHINESE ORCHESTRA WILL GIVE A CONCERT AT WAH FU COMMUNITY HALL IN WAH FU ESTATE.
THE CONCERT WILL PRESENT 12 POPULAR INSTRUMENTAL PIECES OF CHINESE TRADITIONAL MUSIC INCLUDING SELECTED DANCE PIECES, GUANGDONG MELODIES AND FOLK SONGS; AND A PERFORMANCE BY A RENOWNED SOPRANO.
FOR CANTONESE OPERA FANS, AN OPERATIC SONGS NIGHT WILL BE HELD AT STANLEY PLAYGROUND, STANLEY NEW STREET, ON THURSDAY I NOVEMBER 30).
ON SATURDAY (DECEMBER 2), THE DISTRICT’S 30-MEMBER YOUTH CHOIR WILL GIVE AN OUTDOOR CONCERT OUTSIDE BLOCK 5 OF WONG CHUK HANG ESTATE. THEY WILL PERFORM A NUMBER OF CHINESE AND WESTERN SONGS.
ADMISSION TO THE THREE CONCERTS, WHICH ALL BEGIN AT 8 PM, IS FREE. TICKETS FOR THE CONCERT BY Till. HONG KONG CHINESE ORCHESTRA ARE AVAILABLE AT THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE AND ITS SUB-OFFICES.
OTHER EVENTS FOR THE WEEK INCLUDE A SEMINAR ON YOUTH PROBLEMS FOR PARENTS ON FRIDAY (DECEMBER I); A SPORTS DAY FOR THE ELDERLY, A BASKETBALL COMPETITION AND A VOLLEY BALL COMPETITION ON SATURDAY (DECEMBER 2); AND THE FESTIVAL'S CLOSING CEREMONY AND VARIETY SHOW ON SUNDAY (DECEMBER 3).
MEANWHILE, AN EXHIBITION FEATURING HISTORICAL PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE DISTRICT AND PRIZE-WINNING ENTRIES IN A DISTRICT FESTIVAL PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION IS BEING HELD AT THE AP LEI CHAU COMMUNITY HALL, AP LEI CHAU ESTATE.
THE EXHIBITION IS OPEN FROM 9 AM TO 6 PM DAILY7 DURING THE WEEK EXCEPT ON SATURDAY WHEN IT WILL MOVE TO LEI TUNG ESTATE COMMERCIAL CENTRE. IT WILL RETURN TO AP LEI CHAU ESTATE ON SUNDAY.
TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL'S PROGRAMME CAN BE MADE ON 5-540271.
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/">5...........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
- 15 -
ROYAL COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY ESSAY COMPETITION
*****
PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL CHILDREN ARE INVITED TO TAKE PART IN THE ANNUAL. ROYAL COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY ESSAY COMPETITION IN LONDON AND WIN AWARDS WHICH INCLUDE INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL, BOOK AND CASH PRIZES.
THE INTERNATIONAL ESSAY CONTEST IS OPEN TO STUDENTS OF ALL COMMONWEALTH COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES. THE ROYAL COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY IN LONDON WILL AWARD PRIZES TO FOUR WINNERS IN EACH OF THE FOUR CLASSES OF THE COMPETITION.
CLASS A OF THE ESSAY COMPETITION IS FOR STUDENTS AGED BETWEEN 1.B AND 18 ON DECEMBER 31 THIS YEAR (1989). CLASS B FOR THOSE AGED 11 AND 15, CLASS C FOR THOSE AGED 12 AND 13, AND CLASS D FOR THOSE AGED 11 AND UNDER.
THE FIRST PRIZE FOR CLASS A WILL BE A TRAVEL AND STUDY TOUR FOR TWO IN BRITAIN WHILE THE FIRST PRIZE FOR CLASS B WILL BE A REGIONAL AIR TRAVEL AND STUDY TOUR FOR TWO.
THE OTHER 14 WINNERS IN ALL FOUR CLASSES WILL BE AWARDED CASH AND BOOK PRIZES.
ALL ESSAYS MUST BE HANDWRITTEN AND THOSE INTERESTED ARE ADVISED TO CONTACT THEIR SCHOOL TEACHERS FOR DETAILS OF THE CONTEST.
ENTRIES MUST BE SUBMITTED THROUGH THEIR SCHOOLS TO THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT FOR LOCAL SELECTION BEFORE JANUARY 10 NEXT YEAR.
A LOCAL COMMITTEE WILL BE SET UP TO SELECT MERITORIOUS ENTRIES TO THE INTERNATIONAL CONTEST AND AWARD LOCAL PRIZES.
THE HONG KONG GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WILL LOCAL COMPETITION BY DONATING BOOK PRIZES WORTH MORE FOR WINNERS IN THE FOUR CLASSES.
THE ROYAL COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY IN HONG KONG WILL LOCAL COMPETITION BY OFFERING AN ADDITIONAL PRIZE WHICH ROUND-TRIP AIRFARE TO KUALA LUMPUR, ACCOMMODATION FOR TWO
SPONSOR THE
THAN $7,000
SPONSOR THE INCLUDES A NIGHTS AND
$500 SPENDING MONEY.
THE ADDITIONAL PRIZE WILL BE AWARDED TO A LOCAL STUDENT IN CLASS A TO BE DECIDED BY THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN LONDON.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (MONDAY) THAT THE SUCCESS ACHIEVED BY LOCAL STUDENTS IN THE ESSAY COMPETITION IN THE PAST YEARS REFLECTED THEIR HIGH ACADEMIC ABILITY.
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/16........
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
THREE GOVT LOTS COME UNDER HAMMER *****
THREE GOVERNMENT LAND LOTS WILL BE OFFERED FOR SALE BY THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT AT A PUBLIC AUCTION TOMORROW (TUESDAY) AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE.
THE AUCTION WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
THE LOTS INCLUDE TWO IN THE NEW TERRITORIES FOR INDUSTRIAL AND/OR GODOWN PURPOSES EXCLUDING OFFENSIVE TRADE.
THE THIRD LOT IS IN KOWLOON CITY FOR NON-INDUSTRIAL (EXCLUDING RESIDENTIAL, GODOWN AND HOTEL) PURPOSES AND INCLUDING A MANDATORY PROVISION OF A MULTI-STOREY CARPARK AND A CINEMA/THEATRE OF NOT LESS THAN 400 SEATS.
WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * * ♦
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 55.6 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 325.878 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 239.821 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 40.9 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
WATER CUT IN SHAM SHU1 PO *****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO CERTAIN PREMISES IN SHAM SHUI PO WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 11 PM ON WEDNESDAY (NOVEMBER 29) TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE LEAKAGE TESTS.
THE AREA AFFECTED IS BOUNDED BY KIU KIANG STREET, CHEUNG SHA WAN ROAD, KWEILIN STREET, KOWLOON ROAD, INCLUDING CASTLE PEAK ROAD, UN CHAU STREET, FUK WING STREET, FUK WA STREET AND YEN CHOW STREET.
/17
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1989
CHANGE OF ADDRESS FOR IMMIGRATION SUB-DIVISION » * * » ♦
FROM NEXT MONDAY (DECEMBER 4). THE INVESTIGATION SUB-DIVISION OF THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT, WILL BE LOCATED AT NEW OFFICES IN WANCHA1 TOWER IT, AT 7 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG,
THE GENERAL INVESTIGATION AND SPECIAL INVESTIGATION SECTION WILL BE LOCATED ON THE 13TH FLOOR. AND THF. REPLACEMENT OF IDENTITY CARD INVESTIGATION SECTION WILL BE ON THE 14TH FLOOR.
THE INVESTIGATION HOT-LINE NUMBER WILL BE CHANGED FROM 5-8933744 TO 5-8241551.
"AFTER THE OFFICE MOVE. EMPLOYERS, WHO ARE REQUIRED BY LAW TO INSPECT IDENTITY DOCUMENTS OF EMPLOYEES, ARE REMINDED THAT THEY CAN SEEK ADVICE FROM THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT BY CALLING THE NEW HOT-LINE DURING OFFICE HOURS." A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.
"BY USING THE INVESTIGATION HOT-LINE TO CHECK ON ANY DOUBTFUL IDENTITY CARDS. EMPLOYERS ARE NOT ONLY FULFILLING THEIR OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE LAW BUT ALSO HELPING IN THE FIGHT AGAINST ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION." HE SAID.
THE INVESTIGATION SUB-DIVISION IS AT PRESENT LOCATED ON THE FIITII AND SIXTH FLOORS OF GUARDIAN HOUSE IN 01 KWAN ROAD. WAN CHAI.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNOR PRESENTS INSIGNIA TO 93 ........................ 1
3RD QUARTER EXPORTS STATISTICS RE-CLASSIFIED BY INDUSTRIAL
ORIGIN ................................................ 4
JAPANESE INVESTMENT BRINGS IN NEW TECHNOLOGY, MANAGEMENT SKILLS ................................................... 7
CNTA BIDS FAREWELL TO SHA ............................... 8
SOCIAL CENTRES FOR ELDERLY PLAY IMPORTANT ROLE........... 8
GOVT LAND SOLD FOR 8363M................................. 9
TAC BRIEFED ON MTR CONGESTION ........................... 10
LEGCO TO DEBATE MOTION ON BOAT PEOPLE.................... 11
IWO MORE DIE OF AIDS .................................... 12
VARIETY SHOW TO CONCLUDE DISTRICT FESTIVAL .............. 15
YAU TSIM SEMINAR ON ELECTRICITY SAFETY................... 15
DB TO DISCUSS ALDRICH BAY MOORING ARRANGEMENTS -......... 1*
EXHIBITION FOR J.OB-SEEKERS, STUDENTS ................... 16
AWARDS TO SAFETY-MINDED CONTAINER HANDLING COMPANIES .... 18
TENDERS INVITED FOR CONSTRUCTION OF SWIMMING POOL COMPLEX ... 18
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28,
1989
1 GOVERNOR PRESENTS INSIGNIA TO 93 ♦ t t * *
INSIGNIA FOR 93 PEOPLE WERE PRESENTED BY THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, AT A CEREMONY AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE THIS (TUESDAY) EVENING.
SIXTY-EIGHT RECIPIENTS WERE DECORATED BY THE QUEEN FOR SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC, WHILI FOUR WERE AWARDED THE GOVERNOR’S COMMENDATION.
IN ADDITION, 21 MEMBERS OF THE ST JOHN AMBULANCE ASSOCIATION AND BRIGADE WHOSE COMMUNITY WORK HAS BEEN RECOGNISED BY THE QUEEN, THE SOVEREIGN HEAD OF Till' MOST VENERABLE ORDER OF THE HOSPITAL OF ST JOHN OF JERUSALEM, WERE PRESENTED THEIR ST JOHN INSIGNIA BY THE GOVERNOR.
THE FOLLOWING IS THE LIST OF INSIGNIA RECIPIENTS:
CBE
THE HON GEOFFREY THOMAS BARNES THE HON CHEONG KAM-CHUEN MR TSAO KWANG-YUNG
OBE
MR AU-YEUNG FU
THE HON CHAN YING-LUN
ISO
MR JOHN HOWARD MARCH MRS WONG CHIEN CH J-LIEN MRS YAU LEE CHE-YUN
MBE
MR CHAN CH I-SUM
MR CHAN KONG-SANG MR CHAN SIU-LEUNG MRS LEE LO YUK-SIM MADAM LEUNG SING-TAK MR LESLIE GRAY MR HA WING-HO
MR EDWARD ARTHUR HACKER MR VI JUN-YUN
/MBE (MILITARY .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
2
MBE (MILITARY DIVISION)
MAJOR FRANK DRAKE
BEM
MR CHAN HUNG MR CHAN Y1U-YEE MISS CHING FOO-YING MR FUNG KUEN MR LEE YIU-LEUNG MR LO CHI-PU1 MR SHIN KAM-CHUEN MR TAM KAM-KAU MR TSANG CHI-KUN MRS WAN LEUNG KONG-YEE MRS WU KOO POO-SUEN MR YEUNG KON-YING MRS YICK HO HANG-YUK MR JOSEPH YIM MR YOUNG KUEN
BEM (MILITARY DIVISION)
WARRANT OFFICER CLASS 2 JOHN JOSEPH TURNER STAFF SERGEANT TSE KIT SERGEANT LAM KAM-YUK
QPM
MR CECIL ALFRED JOHN SHEPPARD
MR DAVID TOBY EMMET
CPM
MR JOHN LESLIE PETTENGELL MR CHRISTOPHER JOHN GLOVER MR IAN FRANK LACY-SMITH MR ALAN THOMAS HORNSBY M1SS MILLIE STRADMOOR MR CHAN IIIN-WANG MR ('HEUNG WAI-SHING MR LO HUNG-SHUN MR LAU KTN-YEUK MR YAM CHUK-SHUN MR CHAU SIU-KEUNG MR KEUNG KAR-PAN MR HO CHAK-LAM
/MR LO CHING-WAI .......
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 28, 1989
3
MR LO CH ING-WAI MR YEUNG KWOK-LIM MR LEE KAI-CHOJ
BADGE OF HONOUR
MR CHAN TIN-SANG
MR CHOW YUH-WA1I NR HO KOON-SHUN NR KAN CHUNG-NIN MR LAI HON-KEE
MR !.l ' 1 C ( HAK-CHEUNG
MR TANG NGAN-HOI MR TANG PUT-TAT MR TO KAM-CHOW MR SIN SIU-WAH MR WONG SHU
MR WONG YICK-KEE MR KU WING-KAI MR YU SUN-SAY
GOVERNOR’S COMMENDATION
MR CHOW KWOK-WOON
MR MICHAEL GEORGE HOWARD
MR KWOK WING-CHIU MR SHUM KIT
ORDER OF ST JOHN
OFFICER BROTHERS
MR HO CHAK-LAM MR LEE TUNG-HAI MR YUEN I'OR
SERVING BROTHERS
MR CHAN CH I-KWAN MR CHAN SHEK-LEUNG DR CHEUNG PING-SHEUNG MR CHOY KWAI-SANG MR CIIU WAI-CHEUNG MR ENG SOON-CHAO MR FUNG KAN-HO MR BENJAMIN LEE DR LEUNG CHUN-YIN MR THEODORE MICHAEL MCINTYRE DR SU CHUN-YUEN MR WU KWAI-HUNG MR YAU CHI-FAT DR YU YU-KAI
/SERVING SISTERS .......
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
SERVING SISTERS
MISS LAU PIK-SAI
MRS LUI CHAN Sil -KING
MISS MA KA-HAY
MISS WOO LA I-KEEN
------0--------
3RD QUARTER EXPORTS STATISTICS RE-CLASSIFIED BY INDUSTRIAL ORIGIN it****
THE SIX MOST IMPORTANT INDUSTRY GROUPS IN TERMS OF THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1989 WERE: ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS; TEXTILES, INCLUDING KNITTING; WEARING APPAREL, EXCEPT FOOTWEAR AND KNITWEAR; PROFESSIONAL AND OPTICAL EQUIPMENT; PLASTIC PRODUCTS; AND BASIC METALS AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS.
THIS IS SHOWN BY STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
(TUESDAY)
BY THE
THEY TOGETHER ACCOUNTED FOR OF MERCHANDISE DOMESTIC' EXPORTS IN
82.5 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1989.
VALUE
MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES WITH THE LARGEST INCREASES IN THE ABSOLUTE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS OVER THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1988 WERE: TEXTILES, INCLUDING KNITTING (+$1,577 MILLION); WEARING APPAREL, EXCEPT FOOTWEAR AND KNITWEAR (+$686 MILLION); PROFESSIONAL AND OPTICAL EQUIPMENT (+$284 MILLION); MACHINERY, EXCEPT ELECTRICAL (+$238 MILLION); CHEMICALS AND CHEMICAL PRODUCTS (+$147 MILLION); AND TOBACCO (+$109 MILLION).
IN PERCENTAGE TERMS, INDUSTRIES WITH THE LARGEST INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS OVER THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1988 WERE: TOBACCO (+27.0 PER CENT); TEXTILES, INCLUDING KNITTING (+13.4 PER CENT); MACHINERY, EXCEPT ELECTRICAL (+13.2 PER CENT); AND CHEMICALS AND CHEMICAL PRODUCTS (+13.0 PER CENT).
ON THE OTHER HAND, SEVERAL INDUSTRIES RECORDED DECREASES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1989 COMPARED WITH THE SAME QUARTER OF 1988.
AMONG THEM WERE: ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS (-$1,026 MILLION OR -6.8 PER CENT); PLASTIC PRODUCTS (-$628 MILLION OR -17.8 PER CENT); BASIC METALS AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS (-$231 MILLION OR -8.1 PER CENT); AND FOOTWEAR (-$107 MILLION OR -29.0 PER CENT).
OUTSIDE THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR, DOMESTIC EXPORTS ORIGINATING FROM OCEAN AND COASTAL FISHING DECREASED BY $6 MILLION OR 4.8 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1988, WHILE DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF ELECTRICITY INCREASED BY $36 MILLION OR 22.3 PER CENT.
/THE ABOVE ........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
5
THE ABOVE STATISTICS ON DOMESTIC EXPORTS ANALYSED BY INDUSTRIAL ORIGIN ARE DERIVED BY RE-GROUPING ALL SIX-DIGIT MERCHANDISE EXPORT ITEMS UNDER THE EXTERNAL TRADE CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM ACCORDING TO THE INDUSTRIES IN WHICH THESE MERCHANDISE ITEMS ARE NORMALLY PRODUCED. TRANSACTIONS IN GOLD AND SPECIE ARE EXCLUDED.
THE CLASSIFICATION OF MERCHANDISE EXPORT ITEMS BY INDUSTRIAL ORIGIN IS STRUCTURED UPON THE UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION OF ALL ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES (IS1C), AS DISTINCT FROM THE UNITED NATIONS STANDARD INTERNATIONAL TRADE CLASSIFICATION (SITC) WHICH IS ADOPTED IN THE REGULAR TRADE STATISTICS REPORTS.
CAUTION SHOULD BE TAKEN WHEN REFERRING TO THESE RE-CLASSIFIED STATISTICS. CERTAIN MERCHANDISE EXPORT ITEMS MAY REQUIRE SEVERAL INTERMEDIATE PROCESSING STAGES IN THEIR PRODUCTION. IN SUCH CASES, THE INDUSTRY IN WHICH AN ITEM IS FINALLY PRODUCED IS NOT THE SOLE CONTRIBUTOR TO THE EXPORT VALUE OF THAT ITEM.
HOWEVER, THE TOTAL VALUE OF THE ITEM HAS WHOLLY BEEN ALLOCATED TO THAT INDUSTRY IN THIS RE-CLASSIFICATION.
BESIDES, THE CLASSIFICATION OF A MERCHANDISE EXPORT ITEM TO A PARTICULAR INDUSTRY DOES NOT IMPLY THAT THE ENTIRE EXPORT VALUE OF THE ITEM IS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE ESTABLISHMENTS OF THAT INDUSTRY, SINCE PART OF THE VALUE MAY BE DUE TO PRODUCTION BY ESTABLISHMENTS CLASSIFIED UNDER OTHER INDUSTRIES AS SECONDARY PRODUCTS.
FURTHER DETAILS OF MERCHANDISE DOMESTIC EXPORTS STATISTICS RE-CLASSIFIED BY INDUSTRIAL ORIGIN MAY BE FOUND IN THE ACCOMPANYING TABLE WHICH IS ALSO OBTAINABLE FROM THE INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL. 5-8234832).
A TABLE SHOWING MORE DETAILED BREAKDOWNS OF SIMILAR STATISTICS FOR SELECTED MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES IS ALSO INCLUDED IN THE REPORT "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE, SEPTEMBER 1989".
/VALUE OF .........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
6
Value of merchandise domestic exports reclassified by industrial origin for the third quarter of 1989
(HKS’OOO)
Industrial origin of the commodities exported Merchandise domestic exports
1989 3rd qtr. 1988 3rd qtr. Value change % change
Agricultural, Forestry and Fishing ■
Agricultural, livestock and 1,949 5,453 -3,504 -64.3
poultry production Ocean and coastal fishing 116,046 121,867 -5,821 -4.8
Mining and Quarrying 1,298 1,197 +101 +8.4
Manufacturing ,
Food 426,330 401,868 +24,462 +6.1
Beverages 86,961 . 110,888 -23,926 -21.6
Tobacco 512,423 403,627 +108,796 + 27.0
Textiles (including knitting) 13,304,370 11,727,598 +1,576,772 + 13.4
Wearing apparel, except 12,562,245 11,875,973 +686,272 + 5.8
footwear and knitwear Leather and leather products 259,851 246,899 +12,952 +5.2
Footwear 260,449 367,071 -106,622 -29.0
Wood and cork products, 178,036 224,941 -46,905 -20.9
furniture and fixtures Paper and paper products, 1,532,310 1,464,669 +67,641 + 4.6
printing and publishing Chemicals and chemical products 1,276,323 1,129,717 +146,606 + 13.0
Products of petroleum and coal 1,583 1,746 -162 -9.3
Rubber products 29,920 47,637 -17,716 -37.2
Plastic products 2,891,467 3,519,724 -628,257 -17.8
Non-metallic mineral products 175,374 203,364 -27,990 -13.8
Basic metals and fabricated 2,636,266 2,867^295 -231,029 -8.1
metal products Machinery, except electrical 2,037,134 1,799,349 +237,785 +13.2
Electrical and electronic 13,984,948 15,011,237 -1,026,290 -6.8
products Transport equipment 65,159 62,486 +2,673 + 4.3
Professional and optical 5,643,480 5,359,479 +284,002 + 5.3
equipment Other manufacturing industries 3,654,241 3,616,545 +37,697 + 1.0
Electricity 196,091 160,279 +35,812 +22.3
Miscellaneous items 35,850 23,636 +12,214 +51.7
(e.g. developed photographic plates and film, antiques, and works of art)
Total 61,870,103 60,754,542 +1,115,561 + 1.8
Individual entries of a column may not add up exactly to the corresponding total due to rounding.
Industrial Research Section, (Tel. : 5-8234832) ‘
Census & Statistics Department,
Hong Kong.
November 1989
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
7
JAPANESE INVESTMENT BRINGS IN NEW TECHNOLOGY, MANAGEMENT SKILLS
******
JAPANESE INVESTMENT HAS BEEN AN IMPORTANT SOURCE IN INTRODUCING NEU PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY AND ADVANCED MANAGEMENT SKILLS INTO HONG KONG’S MANUFACTURING COMMUNITY.
THE DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR T.H. BARMA, SAID THIS TODAY TUESDAY) AT Till' OPENING OF THE PACIFIC TUBE CORPORATION AT THE YUEN •ONG INDUSTRIAL ESTATE.
MR BARMA SAID THE OPENING OF THE FIRM HAD MARKED THE DLMINATIOE 01 ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL EFFORT OF THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT !'O PROMOTE OVERSEAS INDUSTRIAL INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG.
!• Till PAST 12 MONTHS. THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT'S ONE STOP UNIT AND ITS INVESTMENT PROMOTION OFFICE IN TOKYO HAVE ASSISTED 13 JAPANESE COMPANIES IN SETTING UP IN HONG KONG NEW MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS AND EXPANDING EXISTING FACILITIES," HE SAID.
Hl NOTED THAT THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT WAS ALSO HELPING A FURTHER 80 JAI ' : SI COMPANIES WITH THEIR ENQUIRIES AND EIGHT OF THESE HAD ALREADY ENTERED INTO COMMITMENTS TO COMMENCE OR EXPAND PRODUCTION WITHIN THE NEXT 12 MONTHS.
SUCH ACTION CONFIRMS THE ADVANTAGES OF HONG KONG AS AN OFFSHORE MANUFACTURING LOCATION," HE SAID.
MR BARMA SAID HIE 1989 SURVEY OF OVERSEAS INVESTMENT, PUBLISHED EARLIER THIS MONTH, SHOWED THAT THERE WERE 170 WHOLLY OR PARTLY OW- IT) JAPAN!-ISE ESTABLISHMENTS IN HONG KONG AT THE END OF 1988.
"01 THESE. 75 COMPANIES WERE REPORTED TO HAVE APPLIED ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY IN THEIR OPERATIONS," HE SAID.
HE NOTED THAI JAPAN HAD CONSOLIDATED ITS POSITION AS THE COUNTRY WITH THE MOST INDUSTRIAL INVESTMENTS IN HONG KONG AFTER THE UNITED STATES.
WITH CUMULATIVE INVESTMENTS AT S6.9 BILLTON. JAPANESE INTERESTS ACCOUNTED FOR 27 PER CENT OF TOTAL OVERSEAS INVESTMENTS IN THE '•.'DUSTRIAL SECTOR TN HONG KONG," HE SAID.
TURNING 1'0 THE GOVERNMENT'S RECENTLY ANNOUNCED PLAN TO IMPROVE Till INFRASTRUCTURE, MR BARMA SAID THESE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES, INVOLVING AN ESTIMATED CAPITAL EXPENDITURE OF $127 BILLION, WERE DESIGNED TO ENHANCE AND SUSTAIN THE STABILITY AND PROSPERITY' OF THE TERRITORY WELL INTO THE NEXT CENTURY.
Till GOVERNMENT WILL BE SEEKING INVESTMENT INITIATIVES FROM THE PRIVATE SECTOR IK REALISING THESE PROJECTS," HE ADDED.
/8.........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
8
CNTA BIDS FAREWELL TO SHA ♦ * * t
THE RETIRING SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR DONALD LIAO, TODAY (TUESDAY) URGED MEMBERS OF HIS STAFF TO CONTINUE THEIR GOOD WORK IN-SERVING THE COMMUNITY - A-ND CONTRIBUTING TO A STABLE AND PROSPEROUS SOCIETY.
MR LIAO WAS SPEAKING AT A FAREWELL DINNER ORGANISED IN HlS HONOUR. BY STAFF OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION.
HE SAID THAT DURING HIS 30 YEARS OF SERVICE IN THE GOVERNMENT, HE HAD SEEN MUCH IMPROVEMENT TO PEOPLE’S STANDARD OF LIVING AND COMMUNICATION BETWEEN RESIDENTS AND THE ADMINISTRATION.
’’BEING A MEMBER OF THE GOVERNMENT, 1 THINK 1 CAN BE JUSTLY PROUD OF THESE ACHIEVEMENTS.
”1 HOPE MEMBERS OF THE CNTA WILL UPHOLD OUR FINE TRADITION OF DOING OUR BEST IN SERVING OUR COMMUNITY,” MR LIAO SAID.
DURING THE DINNER, MR LIAO WAS PRESENTED WITH A TELEVISION SET AS A FAREWELL GIFT. THE DINNER WAS ATTENDED BY OVER 800 SERVING AND FORMER CNTA STAFF IN 69 TABLES.
MR LIAO WAS BORN IN TAIWAN ON OCTOBER 29, 1929. HE RECEIVED HIS SECONDARY AND TERTIARY EDUCATION IN HONG KONG, GRADUATING FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG WITH A BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE (HONOURS) DEGREE IN 1955.
HE JOINED THE GOVERNMENT IN 1960 AS AN ARCHITECT WITH THE FORMER HONG KONG HOUSING AUTHORITY. HE BECAME COMMISSIONER FOR HOUSING IN 1968, DIRECTOR OF HOUSING IN 1973, SECRETARY FOR HOUSING IN 1980 AND SECRETARY FOR DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION IN '1985.
- 0
SOCIAL CENTRES FOR ELDERLY PLAY IMPORTANT ROLE
*****
AN IMPORTANT SEGMENT OF THE COMMUNITY''SUPPORT SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY, THE DIRECTOR WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID THIS (TUESDAY) MORNING.
SOCIAL CENTRES ARE
OF
VARIOUS
SOCIAL
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF A
SOCIAL CENTRE FOR THE
ELDERLY
OPERATED BY THE TUNG WAN GROUP OF HOSPITALS IN SHA TIN, MRS WONG SAID COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES AIMED AT HELPING ELDERLY PEOPLE TO CONTINUE TOLIVE INDEPENDENTLY IN THE COMMUNITY RATHER THAN STAYING
AT RESIDENT I AL INSTTTUTIONS.
/’’THE SERVICES
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 28, 1989
9
•'THE SERVICES ARE PROVIDED UNDER THE GUIDING PRINCIPLE OF ’CARE IN THE COMMUNITY*," SHE SAID, ADDING THAT THE OBJECTIVE WAS FIRST SET OUT IN THE WHITE PAPER ON SOCIAL WELFARE PUBLISHED IN 1979.
"IT WAS AGAIN SUPPORTED DURING A REVIEW ON ELDERLY SERVICES LAST YEAR," SHE SAID.
"SINCE 1979, THE NUMBER OF GOVERNMENT-MDED SOCIAL CENTRES FOR THE ELDERLY HAS RISEN FROM 13 TO 133, WITH A TOTAL MEMBERSHIP OF ABOUT 40,000," SHE ADDED.
LATER IN THE AFTERNOON, MRS WONG ALSO SPOKE ON THE SAME SUBJECT WHEN SHE OFFICIATED AT THE OPENING OF ANOTHER SOCIAL CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY RUN BY THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS IN SAU MAU PING.
SHE NOTED THAT UNDER THE GOVERNMENT’S LONG-TERM PLAN, A SOCIAL CENTRE WOULD Bl PROVIDED FOR EVERY 30,000 PEOPLE.
"IT IS HOPED THAT BY TAKING PART IN ACTIVITIES THE CENTRES, ELDERLY PEOPLE WOULD BE ABLE TO ENLARGE CIRCLE, LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COMMUNITY AND ADJUST TO SOCIETY," SHF SAID.
ORGANISED BY
THEIR SOCIAL
THE CHANGING
MRS WONG COMMENDED THE TUNG WAH GROUP OF CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY.
HOSPITALS
FOR ITS
-----0------
GOVT LAND SOLD FOR S363M t t t ♦
THREE LOTS OF GOVERNMENT LAND WERE SOLD FOR A TOTAL OF $363 MILLION BY THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT AT \ PUBLIC AUCTION TODAY (TUESDAY ).
TOPPING THE LIST WAS A LOT AT CARPENTER ROAD IN KOWLOON CITY WHICH WAS BOUGHT BY STAR IO CO LTD FOR $286 MILLION. BIDDING OPENED AT $100 MILLION.
THE LOT IS FOR NON-INDUSTRI AL (EXCLUDING RESIDENTIAL, GODOWN AND HOTEL) PURPOSES AND INCLUDING A MANDATORY PROVISION OF A MULTI-STOREY CARPARK AND A CINEMA/THEATRE WITH NO FEWER THAN 400 SEATS.
IT COVERS AN AREA OF ABOUT 5,921 SQUARE METRES AND THE DEVELOPER IS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 23,000 SQUARE METRES BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 1993.
THE SECOND LOT IS LOCATED IN AREA 8 OF TAI PO AND HAS AN AREA OF ABOUT 2,230 SQUARE METRES. IT WAS SOLD AT THE OFFSET PRICE OF $40 MILLION TO LOWENTON LTD.
/THE LOT ........
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 28, 1989
- 10 -
THE LOT IS FOR INDUSTRIAL AND/OR GODOWN PURPOSES EXCLUDING OFFENSIVE TRADE. THE DEVELOPER IS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 12,711 SQUARE METRES BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 1993.
THE THIRD LOT IS LOCATED IN AREA 4B OF SHEUNG SHUI AND IS DESIGNATED FOR INDUSTRIAL AND/OR GODOWN PURPOSES EXCLUDING OFFENSIVE TRADE.
BIDDING OPENED AT $30 MILLION AND THE LOT WAS BOUGHT BY KA KA REALTY LTD FOL* $37 MILLION.
IT COVERS AN AREA OF ABOUT 3,785 SQUARE METRES AND THE DEVELOPER IS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE A GROSS FLOOR AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 11,355 SQUARE METRES BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 1992 WITH NOT LESS THAN 1,890 SQUARE METRES OF MOTOR VEHICLE WORKSHOPS ON THE FIRST FLOOR.
THE AUCTION, HELD AT THE CITY HALL THEATRE, WAS CONDUCTED BY THE ACTING GOVERNMENT LANI) AGENT, MR ROGER HARDING.
MR HARDING SAID HE WAS PLEASED AND SATISFIED WITH THE PRICES OF ALL THREE LOTS.
--------0
TAC BRIEFED ON MTR CONGESTION * ♦ ♦
MEMBERS OF THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC) WERE TODAY BRIEFED ON THE VARIOUS MEASURES TAKEN BY BOTH THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION (MTRC) AND THE GOVERNMENT TO ALLEVIATE PEAK HOUR CONGESTION.
THE TAC WAS INFORMED THAT THE MTRC HAD DECIDED TO RETAIN THE MORNING PEAK HOUR CONGESTION FARE TO ALLEVIATE THE PEAK CONGESTION PROBLEM ALONG THE NATHAN ROAD CORRIDOR. THIS WAS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF OVERCROWDING ON THE PLATFORMS WHICH COULD CAUSE SEVERE DIFFICULTIES IN EVACUATING PASSENGERS IN CASE OF EMERGENCIES.
FOLLOWING THE OPENING OF THE RAIL SECTION OF THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING IN AUGUST THIS YEAR, THE MTRC CONDUCTED A PASSENGER SURVEY IN OCTOBER WHICH SHOWED THAT THE NATHAN ROAD CORRIDOR MORNING PEAK HOUR DEMAND HAD DROPPED FROM 86,000 TO AROUND 76,000 PASSENGERS.
HOWEVER. THE SAME SURVEY FOUND THAT ABOUT 4,000 PASSENGERS CURRENTLY USING THE MTR NATHAN ROAD CORRIDOR OUTSIDE THE MORNING PEAK WOULD REVERT TO TRAVELLING IN THE MORNING PEAK IF THE CONGESTION FARE WAS REMOVED.
THIS MEANT THAT PATRONAGE IN THE MORNING PEAK COULD REACH 80,000 PER HOUR, WHICH WAS MUCH HIGHER THAN THE MTR DESIGNED CAPACITY OF 75,000 PASSENGERS PER HOUR.
/THE TAC ........
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 28, 1989
11
THE TAC WAS INFORMED THAT THE ADDITIONAL INCOME DERIVED FROM THE PEAK HOUR CONGESTION FARE WOULD BE OFFSET BY DISCOUNTS OFFERED TO THE EARLY BIRD PASSES. TO BE SOLD AT AN ADDITIONAL $10 DISCOUNTS FOR FIVE MONTHS FROM DECEMBER 1989 TO APRIL 1990.
THE TAC ALSO NOTED OTHER NON-PRICING MEASURES TAKEN BY THE MTRC TO ALLEVIATE THE PEAK CONGESTION PROBLEM : THE COMPLETION OF THE SIGNALLING AND LAYOUT IMPROVEMENTS AT TSUEN WAN STATION IN MAY THIS YEAR. ENABLING THE CORPORATION TO RUN A TWO-MINUTE FREQUENCY SERVICE FROM 7.40 AM TO 9.30 AM, AND THE CONTINUED DEPLOYMENT OF PLATFORM ASSISTANTS AT CONGESTED STATIONS ALONG THE NATHAN ROAD CORRIDOR FOR CROWD CONTROL PURPOSES.
THE MTRC HAD ALSO BEEN ASKED TO CONSIDER RE-INTRODUCING A FREE FEEDER BUS SERVICE DURING THE MORNING PEAK FROM HUNG HOM KCR STATION TO TSIM SHA TSUI MTR STATION.
MEANWHILE. ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORT SERVICES WERE ALSO AVAILABLE TO COMMUTERS. SINCE AUGUST 1987, THREE DIRECT KMB ROUTES FROM NORTH-EAST AND NORTH-WEST NEW TERRITORIES TO SOUTH KOWLOON AND FOUR CROSS HARBOUR BUS ROUTES HAD BEEN INTRODUCED.
IN 1990. THREE NEW OR MODIFIED DIRECT KMB ROUTES TO THE YAU MA TEI AND TSIM SHA TSUI AREA AND ONE ADDITIONAL CROSS HARBOUR ROUTE WOULD BE INTRODUCED.
A FREE SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE SPONSORED BY THE HONG KONG AND YAUMATI FERRY CO LTD HAD BEEN IN OPERATION SINCE THE SUMMER OF 1988 BETWEEN THE KCR MONG KOK STATION AND JORDAN ROAD FERRY PIER DURING THE MORNING PEAK. EARLY THIS MONTH. HYF HAD ALSO INTRODUCED A TEMPORARY FERRY SERVICE BETWEEN TSING VI AND CENTRAL.
DURING THE MEETING. THE TAC ALSO CONTINUED TO DISCUSS THE DRAFT WHITE PAPER ON TRANSPORT POLICY IN HONG KONG.
------0-------
LEGCO TO DEBATE MOTION ON BOAT PEOPLE * ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WILL DEBATE A MOTION ON VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE AT THE COUNCIL’S MEETING TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
THE MOTION, TO BE MOVED BY THE SENIOR MEMBER, THE HON ALLEN LEE, READS: "THAT THIS COUNCIL URGES HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT TO SECURE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, WHETHER THROUGH THE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF ACTION AGREED AT GENEVA IN JUNE THIS YEAR OR THROUGH BILATERAL AGREEMENT WITH THE VIETNAMESE GOVERNMENT, THE URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION FROM HONG KONG TO VIETNAM OF ALL VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE CLASSIFIED AS NON-REFUGEES" .
/TWENTY-TWO MEMBERS
TUESDAY. NOVEMBER 28. 1989
12
TWENTY-TWO MEMBERS HAVE INDICATED THAT THEY WOULD SPEAK ON THE MOTION.
ALSO ON THE AGENDA FOR THE MEETING ARE FOUR QUESTIONS AND FOUR BILLS.
TWO BILLS WILL BE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
THEY ARE THE URBAN COUNCIL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989.
SECOND READING DEBATES ON TWO BILLS WILL BE RESUMED, AND EACH BILL IS THEN DUE TO GO THROUGH THE COMMITTEE STAGE AND BE GIVEN A THIRD READING.
THEY ARE THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 AND THI STAMP DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989.
TN \DDITTON, THE HON DAVID LI WILL INTRODUCE A PRIVATE BILL, THE FIRST PACIFIC BANK LIMITED BILL 1989, FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
--------0-----------
TWO MORE DIL OF AIDS
I t ♦ *
TWO MORE PERSONS HAVE DIED OF ACQUIRED IMMUNE DEFICIENCY SYNDROME (AIDS).
ANNOUNCING THIS TODAY (TUESDAY), A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SAID THAT ONE OF THEM WAS AN AIDS PATIENT CONFIRMED EARLIER WHILE THE OTHER WAS A NEW AIDS CASE.
THE LATTER WAS ONE OF THE THREE MEN WHO WERE FOUND TO BE POSITIVE FOR THE HIV ANTIBODY TEST LAST MONTH. HE HAD CONTRACTED THE DISEASE SEXUALLY.
RI LI AS ING STATISTICS ON THE OCTOBER, Illi; SPOKESMAN SAID THAT 01 FAR, 17 OF rill- PATIENTS HAD DIED.
A I DS SIIRVE I LLANCE PROGRAMME FOR
THE 30 AIDS CASES CONFIRMED SO
THE REMAINING 13 PATIENTS ARE RECEIVING COUNSELLING AND TREATMENT.
/WITH THE ........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
13
WITH THE LATEST ADDITION OF THREE ASYMPTOMATIC CARRIERS, THE TOTAL NUMBER 01 PERSONS INFECTED BY THE AIDS VI RIS NOW STANDS AT 164.
OF THE 164 CARRIERS, 55 WERE HAEMOPHILIACS, ONE WAS AN INTRAVENOUS DRUG ABUSER, 17 WERE PEOPLE WHO ATTENDED SOCIAL HYGIENE CLINICS, 52 WERE PATIENTS FROM GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS \ND CLINICS AND 39 WERE REFERRALS FROM PRIVATE DOCTORS AND SUBVERTED ORGANISATIONS.
UNDER THE AIDS SURVEILLANCE PROGRAMME STARTED IN 1985, A TOTAL OF 142,759 BLOOD SPECIMENS HAD BEEN TESTED FOR THE AIDS VIRUS.
MEANWHILE, THE
HAS ALSO SCREENED ALL
HONG KONG RED CROSS BLOOD BLOOD DONORS FOR AIDS.
TRANSFUSION
SERVICE
UP TO OCTOBER, A TOTAL OF 631.807 TESTED AND NINE WERE FOUND POSITIVE.
UNITS OF BLOOD HAD BEEN
/AIDS VIRUS .........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
14
1 & & 4 &
AIDS Virus (HIV) Antibody Testing m A Department of Health
2 8 NOV 1989.
Apr 85 - Sept. 89 October 89 Total
No. No. No. No. No. No.
», v L > tested* ♦ve tested* +ve tested* +ve
Referrals from Govt. 9 118 hospitals and clinics JM & x * & & -t Referrals from private 51 160 1 9 278 52
practitioners and 1 80* subvented hospitals AIM dk 3B 13 1 1 817 39
Attendances at social 12* 292 hygiene clinics 16 2 *55 1 126 747 17
Haemophiliacs 396 ft* 55 7 0 403 55
IV drug abusers 3 683 Ai 1 53 0 3 736 1
Referrals from Family 186 Planning Association <LA M ft 0 9 0 195 0
Health care personnel 575 0 8 0 583 0
——————————————-
TOTAL 140 05* 161
M & A J- K , If*. ti. , •This indicates the number of specimens repeated for certain individuals
6 £ 'L
2 705 3 1»2 759 164
£ £ A T FJ < * t
and not persons as tests are
Aug 85 - Sept 89 October 89
No. No. tested »ve iX Ik f ft; ; vO £9 Hong Kong Red Cross No. tested No. +ve
• Blood Transfusion 618 887 . 9 * Service 12 920 0
Department of Health November 1989
631 807
No. tested
Total
No.
♦ve
9
z
/
-----0------
/15 .........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
15
VARIETY SHOW TO CONCLUDE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ♦ ♦ t t ♦
rm«r .™N™’l‘°NG 1989 S0,T»RRN DISTRICT FESTIVAL WILL DRAW TO A CLOSE ON SLNDAY (DECEMBER 3) WITH A VARIETY SHOW.
ALTOGETHER 10 LOCAL ORGANISATIONS, SCHOOLS BEEN INVITED TO PERFORM IN THE THREE-HOUR SHOW WHICH 7.30 PM AT LEI TUNG COMMUNITY HALL IN LEI TUNG ESTATE
AND CHOIRS HAVE
WILL BEGIN AT
THE PROGRAMME INCLUDES CHORAL SINGING, DEMONSTRATIONS, ORCHESTRAL PERFORMANCES, AS WELL AS BALLET DANCE PERFORMANCES.
TAEKWONDO
AND OTHER
PRECEDING THE PERFORMANCES WILL BE A CEREMONY CLOSING OF THE TRIENNIAL FESTIVAL, AND TO AWARD PRIZES TO THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST.
TO MARK WINNERS
FREE ADMISSI0N TICKETS FOR THE EVENT ARE AVAILABLE AT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE AT ABERDEEN CENTRE, AND ITS SUB-OFFICES STANLEY VILLAGE ROAD, LEI TUNG ESTATE AND WAH FU ESTATE.
THE OF
THE IN
------0-------
YAU TSIM SEMINAR ON ELECTRICITY SAFETY
A SEMINAR TO PROMOTE THE SAFE USE OF ELECTRICITY WILL BE HELD FOR YAU TSIM RESIDENTS ON DECEMBER 7, BEGINNING AT 6 PM AT THE GOLDEN MILE HOLIDAY INN, TSIM SHA TSUI.
ENGINEERS AND A MANAGER FROM THE CHINA LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY LIMITED WILL GIVE TALKS ON THE MAINTENANCE OF THE POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM IN A MULTI-STOREY BUILDING, HOW TO DEAL WITH ELECTRICITY FAILURE, APPLICATION FOR ELECTRICITY UPRATING, AND INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMON HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES.
THE SEMINAR IS PART OF THE DISTRICT’S FOUR-MONTH-LONG BUILDING MANAGEMENT PROMOTION CAMPAIGN SPONSORED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD.
DUE TO LIMITED SPACE, ENROLMENT FOR THE SEMINAR WILL BE ACCEPTED ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE TO THE YAU TSIM DISTRICT BUILDING MANAGEMENT CO-ORDINATION TEAM ON TEL. 3-7702574 OR 3-7702444.
-----0------
/16 ........
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
16
DB TO DISCUSS ALDRICH BAY MOORING ARRANGEMENTS t ♦ t ♦ t t
THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE MOORING ARRANGEMENTS FOR VESSELS IN THE ALDRICH BAY TYPHOON SHELTER DURING THE LUNAR NEW YEAR AT ITS MEETING ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 30).
AS A LARGE NUMBER OF FISHING VESSELS WILL BE RETURNING TO HONG KONG AT THAT TIME, PROPER ARRANGEMENTS ARE NECESSARY TO ALLEVIATE CONGESTION WITHIN THE SHELTER.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO CONSIDER THE PRIVATE STREET RESUMPTION PROGRAMME IN THE DISTRICT FOR THE YEAR 1989-90, AND A REPORT BY THE BOARD’S WORKING GROUP ON THE PROGRESS OF THE CLEARANCE OPERATION AT THE SHAU KEI WAN FOOTHILLS AND REHOUSING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE SQUATTER RES I DENTS.
ALSO ON THE AGENDA IS THE RENTAL PROBLEM OF THE PERFECT MOUNT GARDENS CARPARK IN SHAU KEI WAN.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE EASTERN DISTRICT BOARD MEETING ON THURSDAY (NOVEMBER 30) AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, FIRST FLOOR, 880-886 KING’S ROAD. THE MEETING WILL START AT 2.30 PM.
EXH IB1TION FOR JOB-SEEKERS, STUDENTS ♦ i ♦ ♦
JOB-SEEKERS AND STUDENTS SHOULD NOT MISS THE CHANCE OF OBTAINING THE LATEST AND MOST COMPREHENSIVE INFORMATION ON A WIDE RANGE OF CAREERS FROM AN EXHIBITION TO BE OPENED ON FRIDAY (DECEMBER 1) AT THE SHA TIN TOWN HALL.
A TOTAL OF 23 ORGANISATIONS FROM COMMERCE, INDUSTRY, THE SOCIAL SERVICE AND BANKING SECTORS, PROFESSIONAL BODIES AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS WILL TAKE PART IN THE ID-DAY ’CAREERS ’90 EXHIBITION” ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S CAREERS ADVISORY SERVICE AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL.
’’THIS ANNUAL MAJOR EVENT, NOW IN ITS 18TH YEAR, PROVIDES A VALUABLE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE, ESPECIALLY SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS, TO GET FIRST-HAND CAREER INFORMATION AND GUIDANCE, A LABOUR OFFICER OF THE CAREERS ADVISORY SERVICE, MRS NORA YEUNG, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).
/’’AS IN
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
- 17 -
'AS IN PREVIOUS YEARS, EXHIBITORS WILL PRESENT INFORMATION ON THE TYPES OF JOBS OFFERED, NATURE 01 WORK, APPLICATION PROCEDURES, ENTRY REQUIREMENTS, TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT, TRAINING AND PROSPECTS THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHS, CHARTS AND GRAPHS, MODELS, AUDIO-VISUAL AIDS AND MICROCOMPUTERS,’' MRS YEUNG SAID.
"PERSONAL GUIDANCE AND HANDOUTS WILL BE GIVEN TO VISITORS AT THE BOOTHS," SHE ADDED.
IN ADDITION, A SERIES OF TALKS AND VIDEO SHOWS ON VARIOUS TRADES, GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND PRIVATE ORGANISATIONS WILL BE HELD.
WORK DEMONSTRATIONS AND STATIC DISPLAYS WILL ALSO BE STAGED BY VARIOUS DISCIPLINED AND AUXILIARY SERVICES AT THE OPEN SPACE BETWEEN SHA TIN TOWN HALL AND NEW TOWN PLAZA ON SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS DURING THE EXHIBITION PERIOD.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BF OPENED ON FRIDAY BY OMELCO MEMBER MRS ROSANNA TAM, REGIONAL COUNCIL CHAIRMAN MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG AND COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR MR TONY HAMMOND.
AT THE OPENING CEREMONY, WINNERS OF A BOOKMARK DESIGN COMPETITION ORGANISED IN CONNECTION WITH THE EXHIBITION WILL RECEIVE THEIR PRIZES.
"THE WINNING BOOKMARKS ILLUSTRATE THE IMPORTANCE OF CHOOSING THE RIGHT CAREER AND HAVE BEEN PRINTED FOR DISTRIBUTION AT THE EXHIBITION," MRS YEUNG SAID.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC BETWEEN 9.30 AM AND 6.30 PM DAILY FROM DECEMBER 2 TO 11.
MRS YEUNG RECALLED THAT MORE THAN 90,000 VISITORS WERE ATTRACTED TO THE EXHIBITION AT THE CITY HALL LAST YEAR.
"SCHOOLS WISHING TO MAKE SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR GROUP VISITS MAY CONTACT THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 0-4166400," SHE SAID.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE "CAREERS ’90 EXHIBITION" AT THE EXHIBITION GALLERY, SHA TIN TOWN HALL, AT 2.30 PM ON FRIDAY (DECEMBER 1).
-----0------
/18
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1989
- 18 -
AWARDS TO SAFETY-MINDED CONTAINER HANDLING COMPANIES
******
CONTAINER HANDLING COMPANIES WHICH BOAST THE BEST SAFETY RECORDS WILL RECEIVE AWARDS AT \ CEREMONY TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY) AFTERNOON.
THESE COMPANIES ARE WINNERS OF THE CONTAINER HANDLING COMPANY SAFETY AWARD 88/89 COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE CENTRAL CONTAINER HANDLING SAFETY COMMITTEE (CCHSC).
THROUGH THE COMPETITION, EACH PARTICIPATING COMPANY HAS COME TO KNOW HOU IT FAIRS IN SAFETY PERFORMANCE IN THE TRADE AND IS THUS PRODDED INTO RAISING ITS STANDARDS.
THE CCHSC IS AN AD HOC COMMITTEE ESTABLISHED IN 1975 UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT. IT IS MADE UP OF REPRESENTATIVES FROM MAJOR CONTAINER HANDLING COMPANIES AND THE GOVERNMENT.
THE COMMITTEE HAS BEEN ACTIVELY MONITORING AND INTRODUCING SAFE PRACTICES FOR THE CONTAINER HANDLING INDUSTRY AND HAS ORGANISED A VARIETY OF CAMPAIGNS AND ACTIVITIES TO ENHANCE SAFETY IN THE TRADE.
THE CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, MR YIP YUK-LUN, WILL OFFICIATE AT THE AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY OF THE CONTAINER HANDLING COMPANY SAFETY AWARD 88/89 COMPETITION TO BE HELD TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY), BEGINNING AT 2.30 PM AT WHAMPOA MARINE TERMINALS LTD, 11 TH FLOOR, WHAMPOA TERMINAL BUILDING, WAN HOI STREET, HUNG HOM.
0 - - - -
TENDERS INVITED FOR CONSTRUCTION OF SWIMMING POOL COMPLEX
*****
TENDERS ARE BEING INVITED BY THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF PHASE TWO OF A SWIMMING POOL COMPLEX NEAR TAI WO PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATE IN TAI PO.
THE PROJECT WILL COMPRISE OF ONE LEISURE POOL WITH WATERSLIDES, TWO TEACHING POOLS, ONE DIVING POOL AND ONE PADDLING POOL.
CONSTRUCTION SHOULD START IN JANUARY NEXT YEAR AND THE SCHEDULED COMPLETION DATE IS FEBRUARY 1991.
TENDERS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE CENTRAL TENDER BOARD BEFORE NOON ON DECEMBER 15.
PHASE ONE OF THE COMPLEX, WHICH INCLUDED AN OLYMPIC-SIZED POOL AND A MAIN BLOCK, IS SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION TN MAY NEXT YEAR.
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
.. .. ■’ ' ' WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
...................CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LEGISLATIVE- COUNCIL- ISFTING:
SOLUTION THROUGH PLAN OF ACTION BEING SOUGHT................... 1
MANDATORY-REPATRIATION IS THE BEST OPTION...................
TIME FOR HK TO DEFEND ITS STANCE ON VBP........................ 5
CALL FOR VIETNAMESE II HOLDING CENTRE IN SE ASIA ............. 6
SCRAPPING OF FIRST ASYLUM POLICY NOT RULED OUT ............. 9
COMMUNITY ASKED TO BE PATIENT............................... 10
MANDATORY REPATRIATION SENSIBLE, HUMANE................. 10
FIRST ASYLUM POLICY GIVES ONLY FALSE HOPES ................... 11
• • • •
PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM POLICY SHOULD STAY ..................... 1?
MANDATORY REPATRIATION THE ONLY SANE ANSWER .................. 1^
MORE FLEXIBILITY IN PAYMENT OF ALLOWANCES PROPOSED.......... 15
b V • • • •• » • • • • •
PRIVATE BILL ON BANK MERGER PROPOSAL............-............. 15
• • • « • • • • COMMITTEE STAGE AMENDMENT TO BILL ....................... ..
OVERSEAS OFFICES STRENGTHENED WHEN NECESSARY...................
. . I • 1 • ’ ”
NO EVIDENCE TO-SHOW MOBILE-PHONES CAUSE ACCIDENTS ............ 17
ELDERLY BEING ASSISTED TO LEAD PRODUCTIVE LIFE................ 18
REVIEW OF ARRANGEMENTS FOR ADJUSTING PENSIONS ................ 19
VALEDICTORY TRIBUTE TO DONALD LIAO............................ 20
/HOUSING AUTHORITY’S
HOUSING AUTHORITY’S ANNUAL ACCOUNTS TABLED .................. 21
MOTION ON URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF VBP PASSED....... 21
14IH jlg meeting to be held next month ........................ 23
GOVT COMMITTED TO STRENGTHENING RULE OF LAW ................... 23
NEED FOR SAFETY-CONSCIOUS WORKFORCE STRESSED .................. 25
FEWER ACCIDENTS IN CONTAINER HANDLING INDUSTRY ................ 25
'IN TOUCH WITH REHABILITATION' CAMPAIGN TO,START ON
SATURDAY ............................................... 26
MOU FOR CO-OPERATION BETWEEN INDUSTRY DEPT AND CERVAC ......... 28
FIRE PREVENTION ADVICE ........................................ 29
BLANKETS FOR STREET SLEEPERS ................................. 29
ANTI-DRUG • SYMBOL DESIGN CONTEST RESULTS ANNOUNCED............ 30
LADY WILSON- PRAISES WORK OF FAMILY WELFARE SOCIETY............ 31
SYMPOSIUM FOR CIANSMEN, DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS ................. 32
DB COMMITTEE TO'VET 32 FUNDING REQUESTS ....................... 33
DB COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER SOCCER PITCH SITE .................... 34
APPLICATION'FOR DB SUBSIDIES TO CLOSE SOON .................... 34
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS PROPOSED ACCESS ROAD .................. 35
SUPPLY OF NON-CONFIDENTIAL ESTABLISHMENT PARTICULARS TO
PRIVATE SECTOR ........................................... 36
TWO GOVT LOTS ON TSING YI TO LET BY TENDER................... 36
RIGHT-TURN BAN IN CENTRAL..................................... 37
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
1
SOLUTION THROUGH PLAN OF ACTION BEING SOUGHT ♦ ♦ * * t
THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON GEOFFREY BARNES, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) REITERATED THAT THE POLICY OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AND THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT IS TO SEEK A SOLUTION TO THE TERRITORY’S VIETNAMESE PROBLEM THROUGH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN,.OF ACTION (CPA).
’’BUT THIS WILL ONLY BE ATTAINABLE IF THE CPA IS IMPLEMENTED IN FULL,” MR BARNES SAID IN THE DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON A MOTION CALLING FOR URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF NON-REFUGEE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE.
MR BARNES COMMENDED THE SENIOR MEMBER, THE HON ALLEN LEE, FOR THE RESTRAINED AND MODERATE TONE OF HIS MOTION AT A TIME WHEN THE FRUSTRATION OF MEMBERS, AND THE SCOPE AND NATURE OF THIS EXTRAORDINARILY DIFFICULT PROBLEM. MIGHT WELL HAVE RESULTED IN HARSHER WORDS AND CALLS FOR MORE EXTREME MEASURES.
’’THIS WOULD HAVE BEEN UNDERSTANDABLE, BUT IT WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN RIGHT,” HE SAID, ADDING THAT THE MOTION BEFORE THE COUNCIL EMBODIED THE PRESENT AIMS AND POLICY OF THE GOVERNMENT AND WAS THEREFORE ONE TO WHICH THE GOVERNMENT FULLY SUBSCRIBED.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE (’PA AGREED AT THE INTERNATIONAL ’’ CONFERENCE ON INDOCHINESE REFUGEES IN GENEVA THIS YEAR WAS AN INTER-DEPENDENT AND COMPREHENSIVE PACKAGE OF MEASURES WHICH SOUGHT TO IDENTIFY AND PRESERVE THE RIGHTS OF THE GENUINE REFUGEES WHILE AT THE SAME TIME ADDRESSING ITSELF TO THE OVERALL PROBLEM CAUSED BY THE OUTFLOW FROM VIETNAM.
"IF THE CPA,CANNOT PROVIDE THE COUNTRIES OF FIRST ASYLUM WITH THE RELIEF THEY SO BADLY NEED. THE CPA ITSELF WILL BE IN JEOPARDY.
• ’’MANDATORY REPATRIATION SHOULD BE SEEN FOR WHAT IT IS, AN IMPORTANT ELEMENT (N PRESERVING THE PRINCIPLE OF FIRST ASYLUM,” MR BARNES SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT SOME GOVERNMENTS, EXASPERATED WITH THE LACK OF PROGRESS TOWARDS FULL IMPLEMENTATION HAD, INDEED, ALREADY RETREATED FROM THEIR FIRST ASYLUM COMMITMENTS.
"THE ONLY WAY TO ENSURE HUMANE TREATMENT FOR ALL ASYLUM SEEKERS IS TO PROVIDE GOVERNMENTS WITH AN INTERNATIONALLY ESTABLISHED MECHANISM FOR BRINGING THE PROBLEM UNDER CONTROL.
"THAT MEANS ADEQUATE AND HUMANE METHODS OF DEALING WITH GENUINE REFUGEES. AND WITH THOSE WHO ARE FOUND NOT TO BE REFUGEES.
"THOSE WHO ARGUF AGAINST THE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CPA ARE PUTTING FIRST ASYLUM ITSELI AT RISK," MR BARNES SAID.
/HF POINTED .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 198?
2
HE POINTED OUT THAT GOVERNMENT OBJECTIVES IN THEIR SIMPLEST FORMS WERE TWO-FOLD: FIRST TO MAKE PROPER ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE RESETTLEMENT OF ALL GENUINE REFUGEES AND THE DEPARTURE OF ALL NON-REFUGEES FROM HONG KONG; AND SECONDLY, TO PREVENT MORE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE FROM ARRIVING IN HONG KONG.
’’THESE ARE OUR AIMS. AND EVERYTHING ELSE, HOWEVER IMPORTANT OR HOWEVER COMPLICATED, RELATES TO THESE TWO CENTRAL ISSUES,” HE SAID.
MR BARNES POINTED OUT THAT WITH SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR LONG STAYERS, THE RESETTLEMENT OF THE REFUGEES WOULD BE ACHIEVED UNDER THE CPA, AND THERE HAD BEEN SUFFICIENT PLEDGES FROM RESETTLEMENT COUNTRIES FOR THAT PURPOSE.
"WE’RE GRATEFUL FOR THESE OFFERS AND FOR THE RESETTLEMENT OF GENUINE REFUGEES.
"IF THE PROPORTION OF VIETNAMESE FOUND BY THE SCREENING PROCESS TO BE REFUGEES CONTINUES AT ROUGHLY ITS PRESENT RATE, WE CAN EXPECT SOME 17,000 OF OUR PRESENT VIETNAMESE POPULATION TO QUALIFY FOR RESETTLEMENT.
"OF THESE WE MIGHT EXPECT SOME 4,000 TO BE RESETTLED BETWEEN NOW AND JUNE 1990,” HE SAID.
”FOR THOSE WHO ARE FOUND NOT TO BE REFUGEES BY WHAT, I MUST STRESS. IS A VERY THOROUGH AND CAREFUL SCREENING AND APPEAL PROCESS, THERE IS NO ALTERNATIVE RUT TO RETURN TO VIETNAM. AS NON-REFUGEES.”
MR BARNES REAFFIRMED THAT RESETTLEMENT WAS NOT OPEN TO NON-REFUGEES, AND THE NON-REFUGEES COULD NOT REMAIN FOR EVER IN DETENTION IN HONG KONG.
’THAT WOULD BE THE ULTIMATE INHUMANITY. THEIR OPTIONS ARE TO RETURN VOLUNTARILY. OR TO BE RETURNED INVOLUNTARILY.” HE SAID.
MR BARNES NOTED THAT SOME COUNTRIES AND SOME PEOPLE DISLIKED THE IDEA OF MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF NON-REFUGEES AND THEY WOULD LIKE TO SEE THIS OPTION DELAYED OR ABANDONED ALTOGETHER.
"BUT THOSE WHO OPPOSE MANDATORY REPATRIATION * CAN SELDOM SUGGEST ANY VIABLE ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION. CERTAINLY NONE THAT WOULD MEET HONG KONG’S URGENT PRACTICAL NEEDS.” HE ADDED.
OVER 500 BOAT PEOPLE HAD RETURNED UNDER THE VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME WHICH HAD BEEN IN PLACE FOR A YEAR AND FURTHER GROUPS WERE EXPECTED TO RETURN SHORTLY.
"WE WELCOME, AND WHOLEHEARTEDLY SUPPORT, THIS PROGRAMME WHICH, INDEED, WE HELPED TO ENGINEER," HE SAID.
HOWEVER, MR BARNES SAID, ALTHOUGH THE PROCESS HAD RECENTLY SPEEDED UP, IT COULD NOT BE EXPECTED TO CATER OiN ITS OWN FOR ALL 39,000 NON-REFUGEES.
/”TT WOULD .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
3
"IT WOULD BE . ;A DELUSION TO EXPECT ALL THESE PEOPLE TO VOLUNTEER TO RETURN AND ALSO A DELUSION TO BELIEVE THAT IF THE ONLY ARRANGEMENTS IN PLACE FOR RETURNING NON-REFUGEES TO VIETNAM WERE ON A VOLUNTARY BASIS, PEOPLE IN VIETNAM WOULD STOP SETTING OUT IN A FRUITLESS ATTEMPT TO SEEK NEW LIVES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD.
"INDEED,1 SINCE THE AGREEMENT ON VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION WAS SIGNED BETWEEN THE UNHCR AND THE VIETNAMESE AUTHORITIES IN DECEMBER 1988, OVER 34,000 BOAT PEOPLE HAVE ARRIVED IN HONG KONG," HE SAID.
THE GOVERNMENT, WAS THEREFORE LEFT WITH INVOLUNTARY, OR MANDATORY, REPATRIATION AND SAW THIS AS BEING ENCOMPASSED BY THE CPA AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH INTERNATIONAL PRACTICE. HE SAID.
"IT' IS THE LQGI.GAL OUTCOME OF THE SCREENING PROCESS FOR THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN”CLASSIFIED AS NON-REFUGEES AND WHO DO NOT VOLUNTEER TO RETURN. V/"-
• • . t. ■■
"IN "THIS ,VIfew, .WE <ARE FULLY SUPPORTED BY HER MAJESTY'S GOVERNMENT 'WHO SEE'THE RETURN OF NON-REFUGEES TO THEIR COUNTRY OF ORIGIN AS BEING IN THE SAME CATEGORY AS THE DEPORTATION OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS ANYWHERE gtSE, JN THE WORLD," HE SAID.
"THE ARRANGEMENTS UNDER WHICH THEY WILL BE RETURNED WILL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH INTERNATIONA!/ PRACTICE. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS BEING THAT WE SHALL ENSURE. ARRANGEMENTS FOR RE-INTEGRATION ASSISTANCE, MONITORING AFTER THEIR RETURN AND ASSURANCES OF NON-PERSECUTION OF RETURNEES FftOM THE VIETNAMESE AUTHORITIES.
j i - ■ r •
"WE SEE ‘ MANDATORY REPATRIATION AS BEING COMPLEMENTARY TO VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION, AND FOR BOTH MODES CONTINUING IN PARALLEL WITH EACH OTHER.
2.’ , .
"WE BELIEVE THAT MANDATORY REPATRIATION WILL NOT ONLY ACT TO DISCOURAGE PEOPLE WHO ARE NOT GENUINE POLITICAL REFUGEES FROM SETTING OUT FROM'VIETNAM BUT WILL ENCOURAGE THOSE WHO ARE ALREADY HERE INTO VOLUNTEERING TO GQ BACK TO VIETNAM," HE SAID.
THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT WAS NOW WORKING, WITH THE FULL SUPPORT OF THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT, TOWARDS ARRANGEMENTS WHICH WOULD ENABLE HONG KONG TO ESTABLISH A REPATRIATION PROGRAMME, MR BARNES SAID, ADDING THAT DETAJLEJD ARRANGMENTS HAD NOT YET BEEN CONCLUDED.
IN THE LONGER TERM, MR. BARNES SAID, THE SEARCH FOR SOLUTIONS INVOLVED MORE FUNDAMENTAL ISSUES, SUCH AS INTERNAL CHANGES IN VIETNAM AND THE CREATION OF JIVING CONDITIONS THERE WHICH WOULD REMOVE THE INCENTIVE FOR DEPARTURES^ >
"IN SHORT AN ECONOMIC REVIVAL IS REQUIRED. THE QUICKER THIS IS ACHIEVED THE QUICKER WE SHALL SEE THE CREATION OF LIVING CONDITIONS WHICH WILL NOT PROPEL VIETNAMESE OUTWARDS FROM THEIR OWN COUNTRY," MR BARNES SAID. . . ,
. . . 1 i • , * I .
M ...
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
4 MANDATORY REPATRIATION IS THE BEST OPTION » » » » »
MANDATORY REPATRIATION IS THE BEST ARRANGEMENT FOR EVERYONE CONCERNED, INCLUDING THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN SCREENED OUT AS NON-REFUGEES, THE HON ALLEN LEE SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE SENIOR MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL WAS LEADING OFF DEBATE ON HIS MOTION CALLING FOR URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF BOAT PEOPLE CLASSIFIED AS NON-REFUGEES.
HIS MOTION READS: "THAT THIS COUNCIL URGES HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT TO SECURE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, WHETHER THROUGH THE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF ACTION AGREED AT GENEVA IN JUNE THIS YEAR OR THROUGH BILATERAL AGREEMENT WITH THE VIETNAMESE GOVERNMENT, THE URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION FROM HONG KONG TO VIETNAM OF ALL VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE CLASSIFIED AS NON-REFUGEES".
REVIEWING THE BOAT PEOPLE PROBLEM IN HONG KONG OVER THE PAST 14 YEARS, MR LEE SAID THE PROSPECT SEEMED BLEAK UNLESS A SOLUTION WAS FOUND QUICKLY.
HE SAID MANDATORY REPATRIATION WAS THE BEST ARRANGEMENT NOT ONLY FOR HONG KONG BUT FOR THE NON-REFUGEES THEMSELVES AS WELL, BECAUSE THEY SIMPLY HAD NO HOPE OF GOING WHERE THEY WANTED TO.
THEY WERE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS, AND MANDATORY REPATRIATION WAS AN INTERNATIONALLY ACCEPTED METHOD FOR DEALING WITH ILLF' <L IMMIGRANTS.
"IF AN ARRANGEMENT IS MADE WHEREBY THEY CAN RETURN TO VIETNAM WITH PRACTICAL ASSISTANCE AND SUPERVISION IN A HUMANE AND DIGNIFIED MANNER. AND WITH THE ASSURANCE THAT THEY WILL NOT BF UNFAIRLY TREATED, THEY CAN END THEIR UNCERTAIN CONFINEMENT IN THE DETENTION CENTRES IN HONG KONG AND RESUME A NORMAL LIFE AT HOME," HE SAID.
HE NOTED THAT THIS ARRANGEMENT WAS, IN FACT, AN ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF THE SCREENING POLICY.
MR LEE SAID THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF ACTION DRAWN UP IN GENEVA AT THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE IN JUNE THIS YEAR HELD OUT HOPE FOR A MORE REALISTIC SOLUTION FOR DEALING WITH THE NON-REFUGEES.
THE CONFERENCE HAD AGREED THAT NON-REFUGEES SHOULD BE REPATRIATED TO VIETNAM. IT HAD SET UP A STEERING COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE THE ADOPTION OF MEASURES WHICH WOULD ENSURE THAT NON-REFUGEES WOULD RETURN TO THEIR COUNTRY OF ORIGIN.
"THIS, IN MY VIEW, MUST BE CARRIED OUT WITHOUT DELAY. SOMETHING HAS TO BE DONE URGENTLY TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE STRANDED IN HONG KONG. WE ARE STRETCHED TO OUR LIMITS," HE SAID.
4
, E
/MR LEE .......
I
f
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, J9§9
5
MR LEE ADDED THAT PRIME MINISTER MRS THATCHER’S STRONG STAND IN FAVOUR OF MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE BECAUSE THEY WERE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WAS WELCOME INDEED.
"WE WANT TO SEE ACTION TO RESOLVE THIS LONG STANDING PROBLEM. IT IS CLEAR THAT THE HONG KONG COMMUNITY WILL NOT TOLERATE ANOTHER YEAR SUCH AS THIS YEAR," MR LEE SAID.
HE DISCLOSED THAT HE HAD WRITTEN TO ABOUT 60 UNITED STATES SENATORS AND CONGRESSMEN TO EXPLAIN TO THEM HONG KONG’S BOAT PEOPLE PROBLEM.
"THERE IS NO REASON FOR THE UNITED STATES TO OPPOSE MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WHEN THEY ARE PRACTICING THIS EVERY DAY AT THE U.S./MEXICAN BORDER," HE SAID.
"IF THE UNITED STATES CANNOT ACCEPT ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS, WHY ARE THEY FORCING US TO DO SO?" HE ASKED.
- - - - 0
TIME FOR HK TO DEFEND ITS STANCE ON VBP » » * * ♦
THE TIME HAS COME FOR HONG KONG TO STAND UP AND DEFEND ITS STAND ON THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE ISSUE ROBUSTLY AND RESOLUTELY. THE HON RITA FAN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MRS FAN WAS SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN SUPPORT OF THE MOTION CALLING FOR THE URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF NON-REFUGEE BOAT PEOPLE.
SHE SAID SHE MADE NO APOLOGY FOR SUPPORTING MANDATORY REPATRIATION. SHE SAID SHE HAD NO DOUBT THAT HONG KONG WOULD BE VIGOROUSLY CRITICISED BY THOSE WHO CLAIMED TO BE HUMANE. THOSE WHO WERE NOT WELL DISPOSED TOWARDS HONG KONG WOULD USE THIS AS AN EXCUSE TO UNDERMINE THE TERRITORY.
"SO BE IT. WE HAVE A CLEAR CONSCIENCE." MRS FAN SAID.
SHE ADDED THAT WHILE DEFENDING HONG KONG’S POSITION. IT WAS IMPORTANT TO EXERCISE PATIENCE. UNDERSTANDING AND FIRMNESS IN DEALING WITH THE BOAT PEOPLE.
"THEY ARE, AFTER ALL. VICTIMS OF FALSE HOPE AND CIRCUMSTANCES, AND WE ARE NOT UNSYMPATHETIC TO THEIR PLIGHT."
SHE SAID THE BOAT PEOPLE ISSUE HAD AROUSED A LOT OF EMOTION. BOTH LOCALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY. MUCH OF THE EMOTION WAS CAUSED BY OVER-SIMPLIFICATION OF THE ISSUE, LACK OF INFORMATION AND MISUNDERSTANDING, AND GUILTY CONSCIENCE OVER PAST EVENTS.
/SUCH EMOTION
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29,1989
6
SUCH EMOTION WAS FUELLED AND USED BY LOBBYING GROUPS TO ACHIEVE THEIR OWN AIMS. EVEN IN HONG KONG, A SPECTRUM OF VIEWS COULD BE FOUND ON THIS ISSUE, AND THE TWO EXTREME ENDS OF THAT SPECTRUM COULD DIVIDE THE COMMUNITY IF NOT HANDLED CAREFULLY, SHE SAID.
SHE ADDED THAT SHORT OF ABOLISHING THE FIRST ASYLUM POLICY, THE ONLY REALISTIC OPTION AVAILABLE TO HONG KONG AT PRESENT WAS TO REPATRIATE ALL NON-REFUGEES, VOLUNTARILY OR INVOLUNTARILY.
SHE SAID SHE WAS PLEASED THAT THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT WAS NOW ACTIVELY PURSUING ARRANGEMENTS FOR INVOLUNTARY RETURN WITH THE VIETNAMESE GOVERNMENT.
MANDATORY REPATRIATION WAS A MUST, AND IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED EARLIER IF THE MESSAGE WAS TO REACH HOME IN VIETNAM BEFORE THE NEXT SAILING SEASON, SHE ADDED.
SHE SAID ANYONE GIVING FALSE HOPE TO THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE WAS DOING THEM A GRAVE DISSERVICE. ANYONE PERSUADING THEM TO TAKE DRASTIC ACTION, SUCH AS CAUSING DISTURBANCE IN THE CENTRES. WAS MAKING LIFE EVEN MORE MISERABLE FOR THEM.
HNO ONE WHO REALLY CARES FOR THESE POOR BOAT PEOPLE SHOULD ATTEMPT TO TURN THEM INTO MARTYRS WHEN THEIR FATE HAD ALREADY BEEN SIGNED AND SEALED IN JUNE BY THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY. INCLUDING THE UNITED STATES AND FRANCE, IN GENEVA,” SHE SAID.
MRS FAN ALSO POINTED OUT THAT MANDATORY REPATRIATION FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WAS AN INTERNATIONALLY ACCEPTED PRACTICE.
’’THE BRITISH AND HONG KONG GOVERNMENTS ARE DOING MORE THAN SOME GOVERNMENTS IN THE WORLD BY MAKING EVERY EFFORT TO ASSURE THE SAFE RETURN OF THESE VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS BY EXTRACTING ASSURANCES FROM THE VIETNAMESE GOVERNMENT NOT TO TREAT THE RETURNEES INHUMANELY,” SHE SAID.
CALL FOR VIETNAMESE II HOLDING CENTRE IN SE ASIA
*****
A HOLDING CENTRE SHOULD BE SET UP IN SOUTHEAST ASIA TO ACCOMMODATE ALL ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM VIETNAM AS A SOLUTION TO THE BOAT PEOPLE PROBLEM, THE HON MARTIN LEE SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AGAINST THE MOTION IN THE DEBATE ON VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE, MR LEE PROPOSED THAT A BIG ISLAND BE FOUND IN THE PHILIPPINES OR THAILAND, OR ELSEWHERE IN THE REGION, FOR SUCH A PURPOSE.
/MONEY FOR ........
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 29, 1989
MONEY FOR PROVIDING CERTAIN BASIC FACILITIES ON THE ISLAND SHOULD BE CONTRIBUTED BY ALL THE GOVERNMENTS WHICH FACED THIS PROBLEM EITHER AS A COUNTRY OF FIRST ASYLUM OR AS A RESETTLEMENT COUNTRY.
"AND THE USA WHICH HAS BEEN THE LOUDEST IN HER CONDEMNATION OF THE POLICY OF MANDATORY REPATRIATION WOULD BE EXPECTED TO CONTRIBUTE HANDSOMELY," HE SAID.
MR LEE SAID THAT WITH SUCH A HOLDING CENTRE IN OPERATION, ALL FUTURE VIETNAMESE ARRIVALS IN HONG KONG AND OTHER SOUTHEAST ASIAN COUNTRIES WOULD BE DIRECTLY TRANSFERRED TO THE CENTRE WHERE SCREENING WOULD TAKE PLACE.
THOSE WHO WERE SCREENED AS REFUGEES WOULD BE TAKEN BY THE RESETTLEMENT COUNTRIES, AND THOSE SCREENED OUT AS ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WOULD BE ALLOWED TO LIVE AND WORK ON THE ISLAND, UNTIL VIETNAM, WITH FOREIGN AID, COULD RESTORE ITS ECONOMY.
AND WHEN THAT HAPPENED, THOSE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE WOULD ALL RETURN TO THEIR HOMES.
THE BIG ADVANTAGE TO HONG KONG IN ADOPTING THIS PROPOSAL WAS THAT IT WOULD GET RID OF A VERY GRAVE PROBLEM WITHOUT HAVING TO ATTRACT ANY BAD INTERNATIONAL PUBLICITY.
HE URGED MEMBERS, AS LEADERS OF THE COMMUNITY, TO "SOW THE SEEDS OF UNDERSTANDING, OF SYMPATHY, AND OF LOVE".
"LET US DO UNTO THE VIETNAMESE PEOPLE AS WE WOULD HAVE THE FREE WORLD DO UNTO US. FOR WE RELY ON THE HONOUR AND INTEGRITY OF THE BRITISH PEOPLE WHEN WE PUSH FOR THE RIGHT OF ABODE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM. LET IT NOT BE SAID AGAINST US THAT WE, THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG, LACK HONOUR OR INTEGRITY IN OUR HANDLING OF THIS PROBLEM," HE SAID.
MR LEE SAID MANY SUPPORTERS OF MANDATORY REPATRIATION HAD NOT THOROUGHLY CONSIDERED THE IMPLICATIONS SUCH A MOVE WOULD HAVE ON HONG KONG.
THE FIRST PROBLEM WAS THE ADVERSE EFFECT THIS MOVE WOULD HAVE ON HONG KONG’S IMAGE IN THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY.
HE ASKED: "WHAT IF SOME OF THE VIETNAMESE PEOPLE, PARTICULARLY WOMEN AND VERY YOUNG CHILDREN. WERE TO MAKE A SCENE WHEN THEY ARE BEING FORCIBLY TAKEN INTO A PLANE OR SHIP, IN FULL VIEW OF OVERSEAS TELEVISION CAMERAS AND JOURNALISTS?
"INDEED, SOME MAY EVEN THROW THEMSELVES INTO THE SEA AND DROWN. ARE WE PREPARED TO LET THEM SCREAM OR DROWN, BEFORE THE EYES OF THE WORLD?"
MR LEE CAUTIONED THAT OPEN SUPPORT FOR ADOPTION OF THE MANDATORY REPATRIATION POLICY MIGHT UNDO ALL THE EFFORTS THAT OMELCO HAD MADE TO WIN THE SUPPORT OF THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY.
/HIS SECOND .......
WEDNESDAY. NOVEMBER 29,1989
8
HIS SECOND CONCERN WAS THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF THIS MOVE FOR THE TERRITORY. HE WAS ADAMANT THAT HONG KONG SHOULD NOT BE CALLED UPON TO MAKE ANY MONETARY CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS THE MANDATORY REPATRIATION SCHEME.
HE SAID: "WE WOULD HAVE PAID MORE THAN HKS4 BILLION BY THE END OF THIS FINANCIAL YEAR, AS OPPOSED TO AN UP-TO-DATE BRITISH GOVERNMENT TOTAL CONTRIBUTION OF 49.33 MILLION POUNDS OR HKS600 MILLION TO THE UNHCR PROGRAMME, OF WHICH A MERE 11.63 MILLION POUNDS OR HKS142 MILLION WAS SPECIFICALLY PAID FOR HONG KONG. THIS REPRESENTS ‘15 PER CENT AND 3.6 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY OF OUR CONTRIBUTION.“1 4 * i.
HE REITERATED THAT THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE ISSUE WAS RELATED TO ‘FOREIGN POLICY AND THUS ENTIRELY A MATTER FOR THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT.
"SO MY ADVICE TO THIS COUNCIL WAS TO LET THEM DECIDE AND LET THEM PAY," HE SAID.
♦ » *•«
HE URGED MEMBERS AND THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG NOT TO CONTINUE TO MAKE THE MISTAKE OF TRYING TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM THEMSELVES, THEREBY PLAYING INTO THE HANDS OF THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT. ■»
"OTHERWISE, THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT WILL GET RID OF A PROBLEM. BUT WE WILL GET ALL THE BLAME FOR IT," HE SAID. '
HE SAID THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT HAD ALREADY SUCCEEDED IN PASSING THE BLAME TO HONG KONG BOTH IN THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITY AND THE USA BY GIVING PEOPLE THERE THE IMPRESSION THAT IT WAS BEING FORCED TO ADOPT THE VERY UNPOPULAR POLICY OF MANDATORY REPATRIATION BECAUSE THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG WERE MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR IT NOT TO DO SO. 7: ' ' ;<?«■ •
"INDEED, IF THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT WERE TO ADOPT THE MANDATORY REPATRIATION POLICY DESPITE OBJECTIONS FROM THE UNHCR A 1 THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, THEN IT SHOULD TAKE ALL THE BLAME. AND WE MUST NOT SHARE IT, " HE said; ’
MR LEE DOUBTED IF THE MANDATORY REPATRIATION POLICY WOULD EFFECTIVELY DETER VIETNAMESE PEOPLE FROM COMING TO HONG KONG.
"IF THE VIETNAMESE PEOPLE WERE STILL TO COME, DO WE CONTINUE TO PAY CONTRIBUTION IN RESPECT OF FUTURE ARRIVALS? AND IF WE DO, WILL IT TURN INTO A VICIOUS CYCLE?" HE ASKED.
HE WAS ALSO WORRIED ABOUT THE LACK OF ASSURANCE THAT THE INVOLUNTARY RETURNEES WOULD NOT BE PERSECUTED BY THE VIETNAMESE GOVERNMENT. HE STRESSED THE IMPORTANCE OF AN "ADEQUATE MONITORING SYSTEM". FOR OTHERWISE HONG KONG WOULD BE IN BREACH OF THE PRINCIPLE OF "NON-REFOULEMENT" UNDER CUSTOMARY AND GENERAL INTERNATIONAL LAW.
MR LEE' ALSO WARNED AGAINST THE POSSIBILITY OF THE U.S. CONGRESS FORCING ITS GOVERNMENT TO IMPOSE ECONOMIC SANCTIONS AGAINST HONG KONG, OR BE EVEN LESS GENEROUS TO HONG KONG IN TRADE QUOTAS.
/FINALLY. HE ........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
9
FINALLY, HE DREW MEMBERS’ ATTENTION TO THE EFFECT THAT THE MANDATORY REPATRIATION POLICY MIGHT HAVE ON THE CAMPS AS A RESULT OF GROWING TENSION AND ANXIETY.
COMMENTING ON CALLS FOR ABOLISHING THE PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM POLICY, MR LEE DESCRIBED AS A "FALLACY" THE BELIEF OF MANY PEOPLE THAT ONCE HONG KONG STOPPED BEING A PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM, ITS WORRIES WOULD BE OVER.
FIRST OF ALL, HE SAID, HONG KONG COULD NOT DECIDE ON THE POLICY BECAUSE IT PERTAINED TO FOREIGN RELATIONS, AND IT WOULD BE WRONG TO PRESS THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT TO ABANDON THE POLICY FOR HONG KONG AS IT WOULD BE A BREACH OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF ACTION AS WELL AS THE 1979 GENEVA ACCORD ON THE RESETTLEMENT OF VIETNAMESE REFUGEES.
FURTHERMORE, EVEN IF THE POLICY WERE TO BE SCRAPPED, HONG KONG WOULD STILL BE BOUND BY THE CUSTOMARY AND GENERAL INTERNATIONAL LAW, HE ADDED.
"FOR IF THE VIETNAMESE PEOPLE STILL COME TO HONG KONG, THEN WHETHER HONG KONG IS A PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM OR NOT, UNDER CUSTOMARY OR GENERAL INTERNATIONAL LAW, WE STILL CANNOT REJECT THEM.
"FOR SO LONG AS THESE VIETNAMESE PEOPLE CROSS OUR FRONTIERS AND ASK FOR POLITICAL ASYLUM, WE MUST PROVIDE THEM WITH TEMPORARY SHELTER. AT LEAST TO ENABLE US TO DETERMINE WHETHER THEY SHOULD BE GIVEN REFUGEE STATUS OR NOT," HE SAID.
SCRAPPING OF FIRST ASYLUM POLICY NOT RULED OUT
* * * * *
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS WHO CALL FOR THE ABOLITION OF THE PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM POLICY MAY BE BRANDED AS MURDERERS, BUT IT IS AN OPTION WHICH HONG KONG CANNOT COMPLETELY NEGATE AS A LAST RESORT, THE HON TAI CHIN-WAH SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR TAI WAS SPEAKING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING THE DEBATE ON URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE.
HE ABSTAINED FROM VOTING.
MR TAI SAID THAT HAVING WITNESSED THE PRICE HONG KONG HAD PAID IN ADOPTING THE SCREENING POLICY FOR VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE. HE WOULD NOT VOTE ON THE CALL FOR MANDATORY REPATRIATION.
HE SAID HE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS TO HONG KONG AND TO THE OTHER NATIONS IN ADOPTING MANDATORY REPATRIATION, AND ALSO WHETHER SUCH A POLICY WOULD EFFECTIVELY HALT THE INFLUX OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE WHO CAME HERE FOR ECONOMIC REASONS.
MR TAI SAID HE NEEDED TO KNOW THE TIME SPAN FOR THE RETURN OF ALL THE BOAT PEOPLE REMAINING IN HONG KONG, AND THE TIME SPAN FOR THE RESETTLEMENT OF ALL VIETNAMESE REFUGEES NOW STRANDED IN HONG KONG.
/10 .......
♦
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
10
COMMUNITY ASKED TO BE PATIENT
*****
THE HONG KONG COMMUNITY SHOULD BE PATIENT AND SENSITIVE TO INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC OPINION WHILE THE BRITISH AND HONG KONG GOVERNMENTS ARE DOING EVERYTHING THEY CAN TO BRING ABOUT REPATRIATION OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE.
THE HON MARTIN BARROW SAID THIS IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) IN THE MOTION DEBATE ON THE URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE.
SAYING HE WOULD ABSTAIN FROM VOTING ON THE MOTION, MR BARROW SAID PRECIPITATE ACTION OR EXCESSIVE HASTE IN HANDLING THE BOAT PEOPLE ISSUE WOULD NOT BE FORGOTTEN AROUND THE WORLD.
HE SAID: "WE ARE ALL COMMIT'! D TO ACHIEVING A STABLE AND PROSPEROUS HONG KONG AND IT IS NOW MORE THAN EVER IMPORTANT THAT HONG KONG HAS INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT.
"HONG KONG IS ONE OF THE WORLD'S LEADING TRADING ENTITIES. MORE THAN ANY OTHER ECONOMY. WE ARE DEPENDENT ON EXTERNAL RELATIONS.
"WE CAN NEVER TURN INWARDS."
MR BARROW SAID THAT FURTHER DEBATE AT THIS TIME COULD GENERATE INCREASED DISQUIET AMONG HONG KONG PEOPLE, AS WELL AS EXACERBATE THE ALREADY COMPLICATED SITUATION INTERNATIONALLY.
A BETTER COURSE WOULD BE TO ENCOURAGE PATIENCE AMONGST THE COMMUNITY AND ELIMINATE THE RHETORIC HEARD IN RECENT MONTHS, HE SUGGESTED.
MR BARROW ALSO URGED EVERYONE TO DISCOURAGE THOSE WHO BELIEVED IN AN EARLY DECISION TO ABOLISH THE FIRST ASYLUM POLICY, ADDING THAT "NOTHING COULD BE MORE DAMAGING TO HONG KONG’S SHORT AND LONG-TERM INTERESTS."
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MANDATORY REPATRIATION SENSIBLE, HUMANE
******
MANDATORY REPATRIATION IS THE ONLY SENSIBLE, HUMANE AND RESPONSIBLE WAY OF DEALING WITH THE VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE PROBLEM, THE HON MIRIAM LAU SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SHE SAID WE MUST IMPRESS ON THE BOAT PEOPLE, IN CLEAR AND UNEQUIVOCAL TERMS, THAT ONCE THEY WERE SCREENED OUT AS NON-REFUGEES, THEIR ONLY DESTINY WAS TO RETURN HOME.
/SPEAKING IN .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
SPEAKING IN THE MOTION DEBATE ON URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE, MRS LAU SAID CONCRETE MEASURES HAD TO BE IN PLACE WELL BEFOREHAND TO DETER A FURTHER EXODUS OF BOAT PEOPLE TO HONG KONG AND THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT HAD TO PROVIDE HONG KONG WITH THE NECESSARY BACKING FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF MANDATORY REPATRIATION.
SHE SAID BRITAIN HAD TO REMAIN FIRM AND RESOLUTE IN CARRYING OUT WHAT IT BELIEVED TO BE RIGHT AND HELP HONG KONG TO SECURE UNDERSTANDING AND SUPPORT FROM THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY.
"I ACCEPT THAT MANDATORY REPATRIATION IS NOT PALATABLE TO MANY, BUT IN LIFE, SOMETIMES WE NEED TO BE CRUEL IN ORDER TO BE KIND," SHE SAID.
BY ADOPTING MANDATORY REPATRIATION, MRS LAU SAID HONG KONG MIGHT RUN THE RISK OF INCURRING THE WRATH OF THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY AND INVITE RETALIATION AND ECONOMIC SANCTION.
BUT SHE BELIEVED THE CHANCE FOR SUCH RETALIATION AND ECONOMIC SANCTION WAS SLIM BECAUSE NATIONS WHICH DID NOT ENDORSE SUCH ACTION WOULD NOT ACT UNREASONABLY, PARTICULARLY SO WHEN THEY DID NOT HAVE MUCH GROUND FOR THIS.
MRS LAU SAID THAT HONG KONG HAD LIVED WITH THE BOAT PEOPLE PROBLEM FOR A LONG TIME AND THE STRAIN ON THE TERRITORY WAS FAST BECOMING INTOLERABLE.
"UNLESS SOMETHING IS DONE QUICKLY TO AMELIORATE THE PROBLEM, GOVERNMENT MAY FIND IT HARD TO CONTAIN THE DISSATISFACTION AND EMOTIONS OF THE PEOPLE.
"IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT WE SHOULD AT LEAST BE ABLE TO AFFORD SOME ASSURANCE THAT THERE WILL BE A FORESEEABLE END TO THIS PROTRACTED NIGHTMARE," SHE SAID.
APART FROM REPATRIATING NON-REFUGEES, MRS LAU REMINDED BRITAIN OF ITS RESPONSIBILITY TO TAKE THE LEAD IN RESETTLING REFUGEES STRANDED IN HONG KONG IN ORDER TO BE ABLE TO ASK THE OTHER RESETTLEMENT COUNTRIES TO FOLLOW SUIT.
FIRST ASYLUM POLICY GIVES ONLY FALSE HOPES *****
THE HON ELSIE TU EXPRESSED SUPPORT IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) FOR THE URGENT REPATRIATION OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE AND ALSO CALLED FOR THE SCRAPPING OF THE PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM POLICY.
THE ONE-SIDED PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM POLICY WAS AT THE ROOT OF THE BOAT PEOPLE PROBLEM AND HAI) PROVED TO BE ONLY A POLITICAL CHARADE HOLDING OUT FALSE HOPES TO THEM, MRS TU SAID WHEN SPEAKING IN SUPPORT OF THE MOTION CALLING FOR URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION.
/"THE DECISION .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
12
’’THE DECISION TO MAKE HONG KONG A PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM WAS THRUST UPON THE HONG KONG PUBLIC 10 YEARS AGO WITHOUT THEIR CONSENT. THE HONG KONG PUBLIC SHOULD THEREFORE HAVE THE RIGHT TO REJECT THAT ROLE, AND I BELIEVE THAT THE VAST MAJORITY DO REJECT IT,” SHE SAID.
THE COUNTRIES WHICH MADE THAT DECISION, MAINLY THE UNITED STATES, BRITAIN, CANADA AND FRANCE, HAD GRADUALLY BACKED DOWN FROM THEIR OWN CHOSEN ROLE AS RESETTLEMENT COUNTRIES FOR THE BOAT PEOPLE.
"IN EFFECT, THESE COUNTRIES HAVE TURNED HONG KONG INTO A HUMAN STOREROOM FROM WHICH THEY CAN CHOOSE ONLY THE HUMAN GOODS THEY WANT.
"THE REST ARE LEFT TO ROT IN THE HONG KONG STOREROOM. YET THEY REFUSE TO HAVE THIS UNWANTED HUMAN CARGO RETURNED TO VIETNAM," MRS TU SAID.
"IT IS COMMON FOR PEOPLE WITH A CHIP ON THEIR SHOULDER OR WHO HAVE FAILED IN THEIR DUTY. TO PUT THE BLAME ON OTHERS.
"SO HONG KONG HAS BECOME THE BUTT OF CRITICISM OF THE USA, FRANCE, SOME BRITISH POLITICIANS, VIETNAM AND THE UNHCR. MEANWHILE, THE BOAT PEOPLE ARE WORKING OUT THEIR FRUSTRATIONS ON THE STAFF AT THE CAMPS. WHO IN TURN ARE BECOMING FRUSTRATED AND DEMORALISED.
"THIS STATE OF AFFAIRS CANNOT CONTINUE, AND MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO CONTINUE," MRS TU SAID.
SHE SAID HONG KONG WAS, IN FACT, NO LONGER A PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM BUT ONLY A DEAD-END FOR TENS OF THOUSANDS OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.
TO CONTINUE TO CALL THIS A PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM AND NOT REPATRIATE THOSE REFUSED REFUGEE STATUS, WAS A "FUNDAMENTAL ILLOGICALITY" AND WAS TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE TO THE HONG KONG PUBLIC, SHE SAID.
"I CANNOT IN ALL CONSCIENCE AGREE TO PLACE ANY FURTHER BURDEN ON THE HONG KONG PUBLIC. OR ON THOSE PUBLIC SERVANTS WHO HAVE TO FACE DANGER BECAUSE OF THE BOAT PEOPLE. NOR CAN I CHEAT THE BOAT PEOPLE WITH FALSE HOPES THAT THEY WILL FIND THE NEW HOMES THEY ARE SEEKING," SHE ADDED.
/13 ........
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13
PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM POLICY SHOULD STAY * * * *
THERE SHOULD NOT BE ANY CHANGE IN THE PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM POLICY NOR SHOULD I'HERE BE ANY OTHER ACTION WHICH WOULD PLACE THE LIVES OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE AT SERIOUS RISK, THE HON JIMMY MCGREGOR SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
HE SAID HE WAS ALSO AGAINST ANY PROPOSAL TO DENY FUNDS TO THE GOVERNMENT WHICH MIGHT BE ESSENTIAL TO MAINTAIN THE VIETNAMESE CAMPS AND TO PROVIDE AN ACCEPTABLE STANDARD OF SECURITY AND OF LIFE IN THEM.
HOWEVER, HE WOULD FULLY SUPPORT THE PROPOSALS FOR MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE SCREENED OUT AS NON-REFUGEES.
SPEAKING IN SUPPORT OF THE MOTION IN THE DEBATE ON BOAT PEOPLE, MR MCGREGOR EXPRESSED SYMPATHY WITH THE VIETNAMESE WHO WERE SEEKING A BETTER LIFE OVERSEAS BUT SAID HE WAS UNHAPPY THAT ANT1-VIETNAMESE SENTIMENT HAD DEVELOPED IN THE TERRITORY.
"I HAVE BEEN UNHAPPY OVER A LONG PERIOD OF TIME TO SEE THE GRADUAL SWING OF PUBLIC OPINION, ENCOURAGED BY SOME LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS, AGAINST THE VIETNAMESE.
"IT IS PROBABLY TRUE TO SAY THAT MOST HONG KONG PEOPLE HAVE NEVER SEEN A VIETNAMESE OTHER THAN ON TELEVISION, YET A GREAT MANY SEEM TO HAVE DEVELOPED A POWERFUL ANTI-VIETNAMESE FEELING WHICH SOMETIMES TRANSLATES INTO A DESIRE TO GET RID OF THEM AT ALL COSTS INCLUDING, IF NECESSARY, PUSHING THE BOATS BACK OUT TO SEA," HE SAID.
ALTHOUGH THE BOAT PEOPLE PROBLEM AND HONG KONG PEOPLE’S REQUEST FOR RIGHT OF ABODE ASSURANCES WERE TWO SEPARATE ISSUES, MR MCGREGOR SAID THE HUMANITARIAN PRINCIPLE WAS THE SAME.
MR MCGREGOR BELIEVED THAT BRITAIN, AS THE CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBLE FOR HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, SHOULD PAY THE COST OF MAINTAINING THE VIETNAMESE AT PRESENT FALLING TO THE HONG KONG AUTHORITIES, AS THAT WOULD BE THE LEAST THAT BRITAIN COULD DO.
HE ALSO SAID HONG KONG MUST DO ITS BEST TO SECURE A CHANGE OF POLICY BY THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT TO ENSURE THAT NO PUNITIVE ACTION WOULD BE TAKEN AGAINST HONG KONG WHEN MANDATORY REPATRIATION BEGAN.
IN CONCLUSION, MR MCGREGOR SAID: "I HOPE THAT MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL AND HONG KONG PEOPLE GENERALLY WILL FIND IT IN THEIR HEARTS TO RECOGNISE THE VIETNAMESE PROBLEM FOR WHAT IT IS, A MASSIVE HUMAN TRAGEDY WHICH NEEDS OUR SYMPATHY AND UNDERSTANDING."
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MANDATORY REPATRIATION THE ONLY SANE ANSWER
*****
URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE WOULD BE THE ONLY SANE ANSWER TO TIL INTRACTABLE PROBLEM, THE HON JAMES TIEN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
SHOULD MANDATORY REPATRIATION NOT SUCCEED FOR WHATEVER REASONS WITHIN THE NEXT MONTHS, HE WOULD SUPPORT A MOVE TO INTRODUCE A MOTION TERMINATING HONG KONG’S COMMITMENT TO THE PORT OF FIRST ASYLUM POLICY.
SPEAKING JN THE MOTION DEBATE ON URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE, MR TIEN SAID THERE WERE OBSTACLES TO THE INTRODUCTION OF MANDATORY REPATRIATION, ONE BEING THAT SOME COUNTRIES HAD DOUBLE STANDARDS ON THE BOAT PEOPLE ISSUE.
HE SAID THE AMERICANS HAD DEVELOPED A CURIOUS BLINDNESS ABOUT REFUGEES AND POURED SCORN ON THE DISTINCTION BETWEEN GENUINE POLITICAL REFUGEES AND ECONOMIC MIGRANTS.
THE AMERICANS THEMSELVES WERE IN FACT CARRYING OUT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF BOAT PEOPLE FROM HAITI AS, ACCORDING TO PRESS REPORTS, ONLY SIX OUT OF 21,000 BOAT PEOPLE FROM HAITI WERE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE UNITED STATES WHILE THE REST WERE FORCED TO RETURN, MR TIEN SAID.
THE AMERICANS WERE NOT HELPFUL IN TAKING REFUGEES FROM HONG KONG EITHER. HE ADDED.
APART FROM THIS, HE SUGGESTED THAT THE AMERICANS SHOULD HELP VIETNAM IN A POSITVE WAY -- BY DEVELOPING THE COUNTRY’S ECONOMY THROUGH FINANCIAL AID.
"SO THE MESSAGE SHOULD GO FORWARD TO OUR AMERICAN FRIENDS THAT THIS COUNCIL IS DECIDEDLY NOT IMPRESSED WITH CONGRESSIONAL THINKING ON THE SUBJECT OF OUR TREATMENT OF UNINVITED ECONOMIC ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM VIETNAM, JUST AS USA DOES NOT WELCOME UNINVITED ECONOMIC ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM HAITI," HE SAID.
AS FOR FOOTING THE BILL FOR MANDATORY REPATRIATION, MR TIEN SAID HONG KONG SHOULD NOT BE EXPECTED TO BEAR THE COST OF SUCH ACTION, AS THE BOAT PEOPLE CAME UNINVITED.
"LET SOMEBODY ELSE ACCEPT THE COST OF GETTING THEM OUT AGAIN. LET THOSE COUNTRIES EXPRESSING CONCERN.... PAY," HE SAID.
/15 .........
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15
MORE FLEXIBILITY IN PAYMENT OF ALLOWANCES PROPOSED
******
GREATER FLEXIBILITY IN THE PAYMENT OF ALLOWANCES TO MEMBERS OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS IS PROVIDED BY TWO AMENDMENT BILLS INTRODUCED INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD.
IN MOVING THE SECOND READINGS OF THE URBAN COUNCIL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989, SIR DAVID EXPLAINED THAT AT PRESENT SECTION 39(3)(B) OF THE URBAN COUNCIL ORDINANCE AND SECTION 41(3)(B) OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL ORDINANCE RESTRICTED THE PAYMENT OF ALLOWANCES TO MEMBERS OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCILS TO MEET ONLY EXPENSES INCURRED IN CONNECTION WITH THE DISCHARGE OF A MEMBER’S OFFICE.
THE PROVISIONS, AT THEY NOW STOOD, DID NOT COVER MEMBERS’ LOSS OF SALARY OR WAGES AS A RESULT OF THEIR ATTENDANCE TO COUNCIL DUTIES.
"LEGISLATIVE AMENDMENTS ARE THEREFORE REQUIRED TO REMOVE THIS RESTRICTION," HE SAID.
FOLLOWING THE ENACTMENT OF THE AMENDMENT LEGISLATION, THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE PAYMENT OF ALLOWANCES TO MEMBERS OF THE
MUNICIPAL COUNCILS WOULD BE BROUGHT IN LINE WITH THE PRACTICES OF THE DISTRICT BOARDS AND OMELCO. ■ t.
THE PROPOSAL WAS, HOWEVER, NOT CONNECTED WITH THE LEVEL OF ALLOWANCES, THE MAXIMUM OF WHICH WOULD CONTINUE TO BE DETERMINED BY THE COUNCILS THEMSELVES.
SIR DAVID ADDED THAT THE PROPOSAL WAS INITIATED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL AND HAD THE SUPPORT OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL.
DEBATES ON THE TWO BILLS WERE ADJOURNED.
PRIVATE BILL ON BANK MERGER PROPOSAL
*****
HONG KONG HAS AN INTEREST IN AFFORDING CERTAINTY AND SECURITY OF BUSINESS TO INTERNATIONAL BANKS OPERATING HERE, THE HON DAVID LI SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY) WHEN HE WAS MOVING THE SECOND READING OF A PRIVATE BILL, THE FIRST PACIFIC BANK BILL.
THE BILL SEEKS TO GIVE LEGAL EFFECT TO THE MERGER PROPOSAL OF THE FAR EAST BANK AND FIRST PACIFIC BANK.
/MP LI .........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
16
MR LI SAID THE BILL WAS THE BEST MANNER IN WHICH TO AFFORD CERTAINTY TO BOTH BANKS, THEIR CUSTOMERS AND EMPLOYEES.
HE SAID THE BILL WAS NOT UNPRECEDENTED AND, INDEED, IT WAS MODELLED ON THE DEUTSCHE BANK MERGER BILL AND THE DAIWA BANK BILL WHICH HE INTRODUCED IN 1988.
HE ASSURED MEMBERS THAT NO STAMP DUTY WOULD BE SAVED BY THE BILL AND THAT THE STAMP DUTY POSITION SHOULD BE PRECISELY THE SAME AS IF NO LEGISLATION HAD BEEN PASSED.
DEBATE ON THE BILL WAS ADJOURNED.
- - 0 - -
COMMITTEE STAGE AMENDMENT TO BILL * * * „ *
CLAUSE 12 OF THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 WAS AMENDED BEFORE THE BILL WAS PASSED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MOVING THE AMENDMENTS IN THE COMMITTEE STAGE OF THE BILL’S PASSAGE, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS, SAID: "THE AMENDMENTS SEEK TO REMOVE ANY DOUBT THAT GOVERNMENT PROPERTY IS LIABLE TO THE PROVISIONS OF CLAUSE 12. AND TO CLARIFY THAT THE VALUE OF UNRETURNED OR DAMAGED GOVERNMENT PROPERTY SHALL BE RECOVERABLE AS A CIVIL DEBT."
THE CLAUSE CONCERNS THE RETURN OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTY BY A PERSON WHO CEASES TO BE A MEMBER OF THE SERVICE.
OVERSEAS OFFICES STRENGTHENED WHEN NECESSARY
*****
WHERE DEVELOPMENT OR CHANGE IS WARRANTED, THE GOVERNMENT TAKES WHATEVER STEPS ARE NECESSARY TO STRENGTHEN OR EXPAND THE ROLE OF ITS OVERSEAS ECONOMIC OFFICES, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE HON SIR PIERS JACOBS, SAID IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON MARTIN BARROW, SIR PIERS SAID THE SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY HAD OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE OVERSEAS OFFICES AND REGULARLY REVIEWED THEIR WORK.
"WE HAVE ESTABLISHED A NUMBER OF OVERSEAS ECONOMIC AND TRADE OFFICES IN COUNTRIES WHICH ARE OUR MAJOR, TRADING PARTNERS," HE SAID.
< A.
/’’THEIR PRIMARY ......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
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"THEIR PRIMARY ROLE IS TO FACILITATE THE CONDUCT OF COMMERCIAL RELATIONS AND TO PROMOTE INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG.
"INEVITABLY THE OVERSEAS OFFICES ARE INVOLVED IN SOME ASPECTS OF PUBLIC RELATIONS AND PROMOTIONAL WORK," HE ADDED.
SIR PIERS NOTED MR BA ROW HAD ALLUDED TO THE WORK OF OTHER QUASI GOVERNMENT OR PRIVATE ORGANISATIONS IN RELATION TO THE PROMOTION OF HONG KONG.
"THE WORK CARRIED ON BY THE GOVERNMENT OFFICES FORMS ONLY PART OF THE OVERALL EFFORT OF PROJECTING THE IMAGE OF HONG KONG OVERSEAS," HE POINTED OUT.
SIR PIERS MENTIONED THE SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL AND THE TOURIST ASSOCIATION IN THIS REGARD.
CO-OPERATION BETWEEN ALL THE AGENCIES WAS ESSENTIAL, AND WELL ESTABLISHED CONTACTS HAD BEEN MADE BY THE STAFF OF THE GOVERNMENT’S OVERSEAS OFFICES WITH THEIR COUNTERPARTS FROM THE TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, THE TOURIST ASSOCIATION AND BRANCHES OF HONG KONG FIRMS, HE SAID.
"SO FAR THIS CLOSE CO-OPERATION HAS WORKED WELL, AND WHERE NECESSARY WE WILL OF COURSE STRENGTHEN IT IN THE INTERESTS OF PROMOTING HONG KONG’S STATUS," STR PIERS ADDED.
NO EVIDENCE TO SHOW MOBILE PHONES CAUSE ACCIDENTS ***♦♦»»
THERE IS NO STATISTICAL EVIDENCE TO SHOW THE USE OF MOBILE TELEPHONES BY VEHICLE DRIVERS HAS BEEN A CONTRIBUTORY CAUSE OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, THE HON MICHAEL LEUNG, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON PETER H.Y. WONG, MR LEUNG SAID IT WAS DIFFICULT TO RELATE THE USE OF HAND-HELD TELEPHONES TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS DIRECTLY UNLESS A POLICE OFFICER HAD OBSERVED THE DRIVER OF A VEHICLE USING SUCH A TELEPHONE AT THE TIME OF AN ACCIDENT, OR THE DRIVERS THEMSELVES ADMITTED USING TELEPHONES WHILE DRIVING.
FROM A ROAD SAFETY POINT OF VIEW, THE USE OF CAR OR MOBILE TELEPHONES WHILE DRIVING WAS NOT DESIRABLE AND SHOULD BE DISCOURAGED, MR LEUNG SAID.
SUCH ADVICE WAS CONTAINED IN THE ROAD USERS’ CODE PUBLISHED IN 1987.
THE SAME SAFETY MESSAGE WOULD BE PUBLICISED AGAIN SHORTLY, HE ADDED.
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- J8 -
ELDERLY BEING ASSISTED TO LEAD PRODUCTIVE LIFE
*****
IN PROMOTING THE WELL-BEING OF THE ELDERLY, THE GOVERNMENT AIMS TO ASSIST THEM TO LEAD A PRODUCTIVE LIFE IN THE COMMUNITY FOR AS LONG AS POSSIBLE, THE SECRET ’RY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, THE HON T.H. CHAU, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
REPLYING TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON SO CHAU YIM-PING, MR CHAU SAID THE GOVERNMENT ALREADY HAD A LONG-TERM STRATEGY FOR THE ELDERLY.
ITS GENERAL APPROACH OF FOSTERING "CARE IN THE COMMUNITY AND BY THE COMMUNITY" HAD BEEN WELL TESTED IN BOTH WESTERN AND ASIAN COMMUNITIES AND WAS IN LINE WITH THE TRADITIONS OF A CHINESE SOCIETY.
MR CHAU ALSO POINTED OUT THAT AS THE GOVERNOR HAD ANNOUNCED IN HIS ADDRESS TO THE COUNCIL LAST MONTH, A REVIEW OF THE GOVERNMENT’S SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES WOULD BE LAUNCHED SHORTLY.
"THIS WILL PROVIDE THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR A COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION OF ALL SOCIAL WELFARE PROGRAMME AREAS, INCLUDING THE ELDERLY SERVICES, AND WILL LEAD TO THE PUBLICATION OF A WHITE PAPER ON SOCIAL WELFARE.
"FULL ACCOUNT WILL BE TAKEN IN THIS REVIEW OF DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGES IN OUR SOCIETY, INCLUDING THE PROJECTED INCREASE IN THE PROPORTION OF ELDERLY IN HONG KONG’S POPULATION," HE SAID.
MR CHAU SAID THAT, FURTHERMORE, THE WORKING PARTY ON PRIMARY HEALTH CARE, WHICH WAS TASKED WITH CONDUCTING A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE, WOULD PAY ATTENTION TO THE SPECIAL NEEDS OF THE EDLERLY.
"MOREOVER, FOLLOWING ADVICE BY THE MEDICAL DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE, RESIDENTIAL NURSING CARE FOR THE ELDERLY WILL BE THE SUBJECT OF AN INTERNAL REVIEW, WITH A VIEW TO ACHIEVING BETTER COORDINATION IN THE PROVISION OF SUCH SERVICES," HE SAID.
EXPLAINING WHAT WAS AT PRESENT BEING DONE BY THE GOVERNMENT TO HELP THE ELDERLY, MR CHAU SAID IN ADDITION TO DIRECT CASH ASSISTANCE UNDER THE SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM, WHICH INCLUDED THE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE, A WIDE RANGE OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES WERE PROVIDED TO ENABLE SENIOR CITIZENS TO LIVE INDEPENDENTLY, AS WELL AS TO HELP FAMILIES LOOK AFTER THEIR ELDERLY MEMBERS.
SUCH SERVICES INCLUDED SOCIAL AND MULTI-SERVICE CENTRES, DAY CARE CENTRES AND HOME HELP.
MR CHAU SAID "CARE IN THE COMMUNITY" WAS ALSO THE CONCEPT ADOPTED IN THE GOVERNMENT’S HEALTH PROGRAMME FOR THE ELDERLY.
"THE CENTRAL HEALTH EDUCATION UNIT PUBLICISES, AND EDUCATES THE ELDERLY ON, THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTAINING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AND PREVENTING DISEASES.
/"THE GENERAL ........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
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"THE GENERAL OUT-PATIENT SERVICE PROVIDES MEDICAL TREATMENT AND THERE ARE ARRANGEMENTS AT MANY OF THESE CLINICS FOR PRIORITY CONSULTATION FOR THE ELDERLY.
"FOR ELDERLY PATIENTS DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITALS AND INFIRMARIES, THE COMMUNITY NURSING SERVICE PROVIDES NURSING CARE TO ASSIST THEIR RECOVERY IN THE HOME ENVIRONMENT," HE SAID.
MR CHAU SAID THAT FOR THOSE WHO WERE UNABLE TO CONTINUE LIVING INDEPENDENTLY IN THE COMMUNITY, THERE WAS A RANGE OF RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES, INCLUDING HOSTELS, HOMES AND CARE-AND-ATTENTION HOMES, TOGETHER WITH INFIRMARIES FOR THOSE REQUIRING CONSTANT NURSING CARE.
"THE PROJECTED DEMAND FOR, AND PLANNING OF, THESE AND OTHER FACILITIES FOR THE ELDERLY IS BASED ON POPULATION RATIOS WHICH ARE PERIODICALLY REVIEWED," HE ADDED.
REVIEW OF ARRANGEMENTS FOR ADJUSTING PENSIONS *****
IN RESPONSE TO REQUESTS FROM STAFF AND PENSIONERS, THE GOVERNMENT IS REVIEWING ARRANGEMENTS FOR MAINTAINING THE ORIGINAL PURCHASING POWER OF CIVIL SERVICE PENSIONS, THE CHIEF SECRETARY, THE HON SIR DAVID FORD, TOLD THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A WRITTEN REPLY TO A QUESTION FROM THE HON RITA FAN, SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT WAS CONSIDERING WHETHER ANY CHANGES WERE WARRANTED TO MEET PRESENT DAY CIRCUMSTANCES.
HE EXPLAINED THAT IT HAD BEEN THE GOVERNMENT'S POLICY SINCE 1975 TO MAINTAIN THE ORIGINAL PURCHASING POWER OF CIVIL SERVICE PENSIONS, INCLUDING WIDOWS’ PENSIONS PAYABLE UNDER TH^ WIDOWS AND ORPHANS PENSION SCHEME AND THE WIDOWS’ AND CHILDREN S PENSIONS SCHEME.
THIS WAS ACHIEVED BY PERIODIC PENSION ADJUSTMENTS BY REFERENCE TO CHANGES IN THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A), SIR DAVID SAID.
HE SAID IN THE REVIEW, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE APPROPRIATENESS OF USING THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) AS THE STATISTICAL BASIS FOR ADJUSTING PENSIONS WOULD BE EXAMINED, AND THE MERITS OF USING OTHER INDICES WOULD BE ASSESSED.
"IT IS HOWEVER PREMATURE TO SAY AT THIS STAGE WHAT, IF ANY, CHANGES WILL BE MADE TO THE EXISTING ARRANGEMENTS," SIR DAVID SAID.
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20 VALEDICTORY TRIBUTE TO DONALD LIAO ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ *
THE GOVERNOR, HIS EXCELLENCY SIR DAVID WILSON, PAID TRIBUTE TO THE RETIRING SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, THE HON DONALD LIAO, IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY (WEDNEDSAY).
IN A VALEDICTORY SPEECH, SIR DAVID SAID HE WOULD LIKE TO HIGHLIGHT THREE IMPORTANT FACETS OF MR LIAO’S CAREER OF SOME 29 YEARS IN THE CIVIL SERVICE.
REFERRING TO MR LIAO’S LENGTHY SERVICE AS HEAD OF THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT, OF WHICH HE WAS APPOINTED COMMISSIONER IN 1968 AT THE AGE OF 38, HE SAID MR LIAO HAD DEVELOPED IMAGINATIVE HOUSING POLICIES WHICH HAD GREATLY BENEFITTED THE GROWING POPULATION OF HONG KONG.
MR LIAO WAS ONE OF THOSE LUCKY PEOPLE WHO COULD LOOK AROUND AND SEE THE MONUMENT TO WHAT HE HAD ACHIEVED, HE SAID.
"SECONDLY, AS SECRETARY FOR DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION SINCE 1985, HE HAS PLAYED A MAJOR ROLE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION IN HONG KONG.
"HIS VIGOROUS EFFORTS IN PROMOTING CIVIC EDUCATION HAVE CERTAINLY BORNE FRUIT. AS A RESULT PEOPLE IN HONG KONG TODAY ARE MORE INTERESTED IN THEIR SURROUNDINGS, IN THEIR GOVERNMENT AND IN THEIR FUTURE," SIR DAVID SAID.
FINALLY, MR LIAO HAD BEEN A MEMBER OF THE BRITISH TEAM OF THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP SINCE MARCH OF 1987, AND THE TEAM HAD BENEFITTED GREATLY FROM HIS PROFOUND KNOWLEDGE OF HONG KONG AND HIS FEEL FOR THE CONCERNS AND ASPIRATIONS OF ITS PEOPLE.
"I AM SURE THAT MEMBERS OF THIS COUNCIL WILL WISH TO JOIN ME TN THANKING MR LIAO MOST WARMLY FOR HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE WORK OF THIS COUNCIL AND TO HONG KONG AND TO WISH HIM AND MRS LIAO A VERY HAPPY, PROSPEROUS AND PRODUCTIVE RETIREMENT," SIR DAVID ADDED.
THE SENIOR MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL, THE HON ALLEN LEE, ALSO MADE A VALEDICTORY SPEECH ON BEHALF OF MEMBERS, AND SAID OF MR LIAO:
"MANY OF US HAVE KNOWN HIM FOR A LONG LONG TIME, PARTICULARLY THOSE WHO HAVE TAKEN PART IN FACILITATING THE TREMENDOUS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN HONG KONG.
"WE HAVE WITNESSED HIS DEDICATION, HIS COMMITMENT AND HIS UNTIRING EFFORTS IN IMPROVING THE STANDARD OF LIVING OF A LARGE PROPORTION OF THE POPULATION OF HONG KONG.
"HIS DISTINGUISHED CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY HAS WON HIM WIDE RESPECT.
’’FURTHERMORE, WE WILL REMEMBER HIM AS A MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AND THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, AND WILL MISS HIS SENSE OF HUMOUR AND PATIENCE IN THE OFTEN PROTRACTED PROCEEDINGS OF THIS COUNCIL."
/21 .........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989 21
HOUSING AUTHORITY’S ANNUAL ACCOUNTS TABLED
* * * * *
ACCORDING TO THE HOUSING AUTHORITY’S ANNUAL ACCOUNTS TABLED AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL TODAY, THE AUTHORITY’S ESTATE WORKING ACCOUNT FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 1989 SHOWS AN OVERALL DEFICIT OF $310.6 MILLION. THIS IS MADE UP OF A DEFICIT OF $431.5 MILLION FOR DOMESTIC PROPERTIES, A DEFICIT OF $176.7 MILLION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND MANAGEMENT OF TEMPORARY HOUSING AREAS AND A SURPLUS OF $297.6 MILLION FROM NON-DOMESTIC' PROPERTIES.
A HOUSING AUTHORITY SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THE DEFICIT WAS CALCULATED AFTER ALLOWING FOR DEPRECIATION OF $517.5 MILLION AND APPROPRIATIONS OF $1,131.8 MILLION FOR PAYMENT OF INTEREST AT 5 PER CENT ON GOVERNMENT'S PERMANENT CAPITAL AND DIVIDENDS AT 50 PER CENT ON NON-DOMESTIC SUPPLUS. ,
• r
THE TOTAL INCOME. WHICH MAINLY 'FROM RENTS, AMOUNTED IO NEARLY $4,875 MILLION DURING THE YEAR.
AS FOR EXPENDITURE, WHICH WAS MORE THAN $4,053.8 MILLION, $845.5 MILLION WAS ON MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENTS, OF WHICH MORE. THAN $833.4 MILLION WAS FOR PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES, THE SPOKESMAN SAID1
OTHER MAIN EXPENDITURES INCLUDED RATES AND PERSONAL EMOLUMENTS.
AS REGARDS THE AUTHORITY’S .OPERATIONS UNDER THE HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME (DOMESTIC). PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION SCHEME AND HOME PURCHASE LOAN SCHEME, THE INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT SHOWS AN OVERALL DEFICIT OF $90.3 MILLION, AFTER TAKING ACCOUNT OF $1,640. MILLION FOR LAND AT FULL MARKET VALUE FOR FLATS COMPLETED AND SOLD IN 1988/89.
0 - - - -
MOTION ON URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF VBP PASSED * ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
A MOTION CALLING FOR THE URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION OF VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE CLASSIFIED AS NON-REFUGEES WAS PASSED AT THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
THE MOTION, MOVED BY THE SENIOR MEMBER, THE HON ALLEN LEE, READ: "THAT THIS COUNCIL URGES HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT TO SECURE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, WHETHER THROUGH THE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF ACTION AGREED AT GENEVA IN JUNE THIS YEAR OR THROUGH BILATERAL AGREEMENT WITH THE VIETNAMESE GOVERNMENT, THE URGENT MANDATORY REPATRIATION FROM HONG KONG TO VIETNAM OF ALL VIETNAMESE BOAT PEOPLE CLASSIFIED AS NON-REFUGEES".
THE MOTION WAS PASSED BY VOICE VOTE.
/OF THE
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
22
OF THE 25 MEMBERS WHO SPOKE ON THE MOTION, 20 SPOKE IN FAVOUR, THREE AGAINST AND TWO SAID THEY WOULD ABSTAIN FROM VOTING.
THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, THE HON GEOFFREY BARNES, SPOKE FOR THE GOVERNMENT AND ALSO SUPPORTED THE MOTION.
IN OTHER BUSINESS, TWO BILLS WERE PASSED.
THEY WERE THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE SERVICE (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 AND THE STAMP DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989.
TWO BILLS WERE INTRODUCED FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS. V
THEY WERE THE URBAN COUNCIL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989 AND THE REGIONAL COUNCIL (AMENDMENT) BILL 1989.
IN ADDITION, A PRIVATE BILL, FIRST PACIFIC BANK LIMITED BILL 1989, WAS INTRODUCED BY THE HON DAVID LI FOR FIRST AND SECOND READINGS.
VALEDICTORY SPEECHES PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE RETIRING SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, THE HON DONALD LIAO, WERE MADE BY THE GOVERNOR, HIS EXCELLENCY SIR DAVID WILSON, AND THE HON ALLEN LEE.
/23 .........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
23
14TH JLG MEETING TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH *****
THE FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE ANNOUNCED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THE 14TH MEETING OF THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT LIAISON GROUP ON HONG KONG WILL TAKE PLACE IN HONG KONG FROM DECEMBER 5 TO 8.
THE BRITISH TEAM WILL BE LED BY THE SENIOR REPRESENTATIVE, MR ANTHONY GALSWORTHY.
THE OTHER MEMBERS OF THE BRITISH TEAM WILL BE MR BARRIE WIGGHAM (SECRETARY, GENERAL DUTIES, HONG KONG), MR ALAN PAUL (HEAD OF HONG KONG DEPARTMENT, FCO), MR WILLIAM EHRMAN (POLITICAL ADVISER, HONG KONG) AND MR DOUG MARTIN (COUNSELLOR, OFFICE OF THE BRITISH SENIOR REPRESENTATIVE, SINO-BRITISH JOINT LIAISON GROUP, HONG KONG).
THE FCO ALSO ANNOUNCED THAT FOLLOWING THE RETIREMENT OF MR DONALD LIAO, THE SECRETARY FOR HOM : AFFAIRS, AT THE END OF THIS MONTH, HIS POSITION AS REPRESENTATIVE ON THE SINO-BRITISH JOINT LIAISON GROUP WILL BE TAKEN BY MR BARRIE WIGGHAM, THE SECRETARY FOR GENERAL DUTIES.
MR WIGGHAM WILL HOLD THIS POSITION UNTIL HE TAKES UP THE POST OF SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE AT THE END OF MARCH 1990, WHEN MR MICHAEL SUEN WILL SUCCEED HIM.
GOVT COMMITTED TO STRENGTHENING RULE OF LAW *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS COMMITTED TO STRENGTHENING THE RULE OF LAW, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR JEREMY MATHEWS, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
IN A LUNCHEON ADDRESS TO THE HONG KONG LIFE INSURANCE COUNCIL, MR MATHEWS SAID THAT TO THIS END IT WAS PROPOSED TO INTRODUCE INTO THE LAWS OF HONG KONG A BILL OF RIGHTS.
"THIS WILL FURTHER ENHANCE THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PRINCIPLES OF THE RULE OF LAW AND FURTHER PROTECT OUR FREEDOMS.
"THE RULE OF LAW HAS FOR MANY YEARS BEEN ONE OF THE WAYS IN WHICH OUR PROSPERITY AND STABILITY HAS BEEN GUARANTEED.
"WE ARE JEALOUS OF OUR FREEDOMS AND ESPECIALLY' VIGILANT TO PREVENT ANY RESTRICTIONS UPON THEM.
"THE RULE OF LAW PROVIDES US WITH A POWERFUL WEAPON TO PROTECT OUR LIBERTIES; WE MUST NOT WAVER IN OUR COMMITMENT TO IT, MR MATHEWS SAID.
/THE ATTORNEY .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
24
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SAID THAT THE RULE OF LAW EMBODIED A NUMBER OF FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES.
THESE INCLUDED SUCH PRINCIPLES AS THE UNIVERSAL NATURE OF THE LAW, THE SUPREMACY OF THE LAW, EQUALITY BEFORE THE LAW AND THE PRINCIPLE OF LEGALITY.
ON THE PRINCIPLE OF LEGALITY, MR MATHEWS SAID IT WAS FROM THIS PRINCIPLE THAT THE POWERS OF THE GOVERNMENT AND ALL ITS SERVANTS WERE DERIVED FROM AND LIMITED BY LEGISLATION OR JUDICIAL DECISIONS MADE BY INDEPENDENT COURTS.
"THIS MEANS THAT THE GOVERNMENT MUST ACT WITHIN THE LAW, SO THAT IF, FOR EXAMPLE, THE POLICE NEED TO DETAIN A CITIZEN, OR IF TAXES ARE TO BE LEVIED, THE OFFICIALS CONCERNED MUST BE ABLE TO SHOW LEGAL AUTHORITY FOR THEIR ACTIONS.
"IF THEY CANNOT POINT TO A LEGAL PROVISION WHICH JUSTIFIES THEIR ACTIONS THEN THEY CAN BE 'UED IN THE COURTS AND CAN BE COMPELLED TO PUT RIGHT WHAT THEY HAVE DONE, OR TO PAY COMPENSATION.
"WHAT IS DONE OFFICIALLY MUST BE DONE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAW," HE SAID.
OTHER FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES EMBODIED BY THE CONCEPT OF THE RULE OF LAW INCLUDED THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE JUDICIARY, INDEPENDENCE OF THE LEGAL PROFESSIONS, THE PUBLIC CHARACTER OF THE LAW AND THE PREDICTABILITY AND CERTAINTY OF THE LAW.
ON THIS FINAL PRINCIPLE, MR MATHEWS SAID THE LEGAL SYSTEM WORKED TOWARDS PRODUCING LAW THAT WAS CERTAIN AND PREDICTABLE.
"THIS CERTAINTY ENABLES MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY TO ARRANGE THEIR AFFAIRS ON THE BASIS OF LEGAL CONTINUITY.
"CERTAINTY IN THE LAW CAN BE ILLUSTRATED BY PRESUMPTIONS IN THE LAW SUCH AS THE PRESUMPTION THAT A PERSON IS INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY.
"THERE ARE OTHER PRECEPTS THAT PROTECT THE CITIZEN, FOR EXAMPLE THE RULE THAT A PERSON WILL NOT BE DEPRIVED OF HIS LIBERTY WITHOUT DUE PROCESS OF LAW, AND THAT OFFICIALS WHEN REACHING DECISIONS ON ISSUES AFFECTING INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS WILL DO SO WITHOUT BIAS TOWARDS ONE OF THE PARTIES, AND WILL GIVE BOTH SIDES AN OPPORTUNITY TO KNOW THE CASE AGAINST THEM AND TO STATE THEIR OWN CASE," THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SAID.
/25 ........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
25
NEED FOR SAFETY-CONSCIOUS WORKFORCE STRESSED
/ ’ * » t * *
MORE THAN ONE IN THREE CONSTRUCTION WORKERS SUFFERED INJURY LAST YEAR, WHICH IS A SHAMEFUL RECORD, THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MR TONY HAMMOND, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MR HAMMOND WAS ADDRESSING SOME 900 GRADUATES OF THE BASIC CRAFT COURSES AND CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISOR TRAINEE COURSE AT THE ANNUAL SPEECH DAY OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY.
HE TOLD THE GRADUATES THAT WHILE THE NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR WAS BEING CONTAINED, THE SITUATION IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY STILL REQUIRED SPECIAL ATTENTION.
"THE ACCIDENT RATE PER THOUSAND WORKERS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY ROSE FROM 333 IN 1987 TO 370 IN 1988," HE NOTED.
MR HAMMOND BELIEVED THAT THE SITUATION COULD BE GREATLY IMPROVED BY A WELL-TRAINED AND DISCIPLINED WORKFORCE WITH ADEQUATE SAFETY AWARENESS AND SAFETY KNOWLEDGE, AS MANY OF THESE ACCIDENTS WERE DUE TO UNSAFE PRACTICES ON CONSTRUCTION SITES.
f "IT IS FOR THIS REASON THAT THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRAINING
AUTHORITY HAS ALWAYS STRESSED THE IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY AT WORK AND HAS INCORPORATED SAFETY TRAINING INTO THE PROGRAMMES FOR CONSTRUCTION CRAFTSMEN AND TECHNICIANS," HE SAID.
MR HAMMOND PRAISED THE AUTHORITY FOR ITS PLANS TO INCREASE ITS TRAINING CAPACITY, NOTING THAT THE AMBITIOUS PLANS FOR HONG KONG’S DEVELOPMENT IN THE NEXT DECADE WOULD EXERT HEAVY PRESSURE ON THE ALREADY TIGHT LABOUR MARKET.
"IN ANTICIPATION OF THE CONTINUED STRONG DEMAND FOR SKILLED WORKERS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, THE AUTHORITY OPENED A THIRD TRAINING CENTRE IN ABERDEEN IN SEPTEMBER, WHICH PROVIDES EXCELLENT FACILITIES TO MEET THIS DEMAND," HE SAID.
FEWER ACCIDENTS IN CONTAINER HANDLING INDUSTRY
INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS IN THE CONTAINER HANDLING TRADE HAVE DECREASED, APPARENTLY BECAUSE THE MANAGEMENT HAVE LAID EMPHASIS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY WHILE THE STAFF HAVE GIVEN WHOLE-HEARTED SUPPORT.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE CHIEF FACTORY INSPECTOR OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, MR YIP YUK-LUN, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) AT THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY OF THE CONTAINER HANDLING COMPANY SAFETY AWARD 88/89 COMPETITION.
/MR YIP ..........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
26
MR YIP SAID WHILE HONG KONG HAD BECOME THE BUSIEST CONTAINER HANDLING PORT IN THE WORLD, THERE WAS, HOWEVER, A DECLINE IN THE NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS IN TIL CONTAINER INDUSTRY IN THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR.
DURING THE PERIOD, ONI.* 85 ACCIDENTS WERE REPORTED IN THE INDUSTRY, COMPARED WITH 98 ACCIDENTS IN THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
MR YIP ATTRIBUTED THIS TO THE GOOD WORK DONE BY THE CENTRAL CONTAINER HANDLING SAFETY COMMITTEE IN THE PAST YEARS, INCLUDING THE ORGANISATION OF SAFETY PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES SUCH AS THE AWARD COMPETITION.
HE ALSO COMMENDED THE OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES OF THE WINNING CONTAINER TERMINAL AND DEPOT IN THE COMPETITION — WHAMPOA MARINE TERMINALS LTD AND LEGO CONSOLIDATORS & WAREHOUSE CO. LTD RESPECTIVELY.
“THEY NOT ONLY HELPED REDUCE THE NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS IN THEIR OWN WORKPLACES, BUT ALSO SET A GOOD EXAMPLE FOR OTHERS IN THE TRADE TO FOLLOW,” MR YIP SAID.
* IN TOUCH WITH REHABILITATION’ CAMPAIGN TO START ON SATURDAY * * * » *
A TERRITORY-WIDE CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE REHABILITATION SERVICES IN HONG KONG, ENTITLED "IN TOUCH WITH REHABILITATION", WILL START WITH A THREE-DAY EXHIBITION ON SATURDAY (DECEMBER 2).
SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY (WEDNESDAY) TO ANNOUNCE DETAILS OF THE CAMPAIGN, THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR KWOK KA-CHI, SAID THE PROGRAMME OF THE CAMPAIGN, TO BE HELD BETWEEN DECEMBER 2 AND 17, WAS WIDE-RANGING.
IN ADDITION TO THE EXHIBITION ON REHABILITATION SERVICES, THERE WILL BE A DESIGN AWARD FOR THE MOST ACCESSIBLE BUILDING FOR THE DISABLED AND A YOUTH PROJECT CONTEST.
A SERIES OF ACTIVITIES WILL ALSO BE HELD AT THE DISTRICT LEVEL. THESE INCLUDE SPORTS DAY FOR THE DISABLED, FAMILY CAMPS, TALENT QUESTS, SEMINARS AND DESIGN COMPETITIONS.
THE EXHIBITION, TO BE HELD IN THE NEW WORLD PLAZA, TSIM SHA TSUI, WILL INTRODUCE VARIOUS ASPECTS OF REHABILITATION SERVICES FOR THE DISABLED PEOPLE.
APART FROM PANEL DISPLAYS AND SUCH EXHIBITS AS REHABILITATION APPLIANCES AND FACILITIES, A VIDEO WALL WILL BE MOUNTED FOR SCREENING THE TV SERIES "REHAB MAGAZINE".
/THE TV ........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
2 7
THE TV SERIES ILLUSTRATES DIFFERENT TYPES OF REHABILITATION SERVICES IN HONG KONG AND DEPICTS THE PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED BY THE DISABLED.
STAFF FROM THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES WILL BE ON DUTY AT THE EXHIBITION VENUE TO ANSWER ENQUIRIES FROM THE PUBLIC CONCERNING REHABILITATION.
"THROUGH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF REHABILITATION PROGRAMMES, PROMOTIONAL EVENTS AND PUBLICITY, WE HOPE THAT OUR GOAL OF KEEPING THE PUBLIC IN TOUCH WITH REHABILITATION CAN BE ATTAINED," MR KWOK SAID.
HIGHLIGHTING SOME OF THE FEATURES OF THE EXHIBITION, THE CO-CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE OF THE CAMPAIGN, MISS MARION FANG, SAID MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WOULD BE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE HOW A BLIND PERSON FEELS IN HIS DAILY LIFE BY WALKING THROUGH A "TUNNEL OF CARE".
BESIDES, VISITORS COULD TRY TO MANOEUVRE UP AND DOWN A RAMP SET UP AT THE EXHIBITION VENUE BY USING A WHEELCHAIR, AND HAVE FIRST. HAND EXPERIENCE OF THE DIFFICULTIES OF DISABLED PERSONS IN A WHEELCHAIR, SHE SAID.
MISS FANG SAID A SPECIAL FEATURE OF THE EXHIBITION WOULD BE A. COLOURFUL MURAL.
"THE MURAL IS ABOUT PLANTS AND INSECTS. HOWEVER, IT HAS A HIDDEN MESSAGE -- PLANTS NEED SUNLIGHT AND RAIN, AND THE HELP OF BUTTERFLIES AND BEES TO SPREAD THE POLLEN BEFORE THEY CAN GROW AND BLOSSOM.
"IN THE SAME WAY, DISABLED PERSONS NEED APPROPRIATE EDUCATION, TRAINING, JOB OPPORTUNITY, AND THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE COMMUNITY TO GROW AND TO CONTRIBUTE AS USEFUL MEMBERS AMONG US," SHE SAID.
THE CAMPAIGN IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH OF THE GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE.
IT AIMS TO:
* ENHANCE PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE AND UNDERSTANDING THAT DISABLED PEOPLE ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE COMMUNITY;
» AROUSE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE POTENTIAL ABILITIES OF DISABLED PEOPLE;
* HELP DISABLED PEOPLE REALISE THEIR OWN DISABILITIES AND POTENTIAL; AND
» PUBLICISE REHABILITATION SERVICES AND THE AGENCIES WHICH RUN THEM.
0
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
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MOD FOR CO-OPERATION BETWEEN
* * * ♦
INDUSTRY DEPT AND CERVAC *
THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT AND CERVAC, A SUBSIDIARY OF THE FRENCH UNIVERSITY OF AIX-MARSEILLES III, HAVE AGREED TO CO-OPERATE WITH A VIEW TO INCREASING THE CAPABILITIES OF HONG KONG MANUFACTURERS IN PRODUCING GOODS TO RELEVANT FRENCH AND EEC STANDARDS.
IN A CEREMONY THIS (WEDNESDAY) AFTERNOON, THE DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY, MR T.H. BARMA, AND THE DIRECTOR OF THE PRESIDENT’S CABINET, UNIVERSITY OF MARSEILLES, MR R. GHEVONTIAN, SIGNED A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) FOR MUTUAL CO-OPERATION IN THIS RESPECT.
NEGOTIATIONS PRIOR TO THE SIGNING HAD BEEN CONDUCTED BY MR ERNEST EVANS, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (QUALITY SERVICES) OF THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT.
CERVAC OR CENTRE DE RESEARCH ET DE VALORISATION DES PRODUITS DE CONSOMMATION HAS EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE IN FIELDS OF TECHNICAL INSPECTION, TESTING, CERTIFICATION AND ADVISORY SERVICES.
THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WILL FACILITATE MUTUAL CO-OPERATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF TECHNOLOGY INVOLVED IN THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE QUALITY OF THE PRODUCTS LEADING TO THEIR SUBSEQUENT CERTIFICATION WHERE APPROPRIATE.
THE MOU WILL ALLOW FOR ASSISTANCE TO BE PROVIDED BY CERVAC TO HONG KONG MANUFACTURERS THROUGH PRE-ARRANGED PROGRAMMES IN ORDER TO FACILITATE THE NECESSARY TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER WHEREBY FRENCH QUALITY CONFORMITY MARKS, CERTIFICATES ON PRODUCT QUALITY, CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH EEC STANDARDS CAN BE OBTAINED.
CERVAC ALSO HAS A NUMBER OF SHOWROOMS WHERE HONG KONG MANUFACTURERS WILL BE ABLE TO DISPLAY QUALITY PRODUCTS TO EUROPEAN BUYERS.
AREAS WHERE CO-OPERATION PROGRAMMES WOULD BE BENEFICIAL INCLUDE INFORMATION SERVICES, INSPECTION SERVICES, TECHNIQUES FOR IMPROVING PRODUCT QUALITY, AWARDING OF CONFORMITY MARKS AND PROMOTIONAL SERVICES.
THE MOU IS THE SECOND OF ITS KIND HONG KONG HAS SIGNED WITH A FOREIGN ORGANISATION IN THE FIELD OF PRODUCT CERTIFICATION. THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT HAS EARLIER SIGNED A SMILIAR MOU WITH TUV ESSEN, A WEST GERMAN AGENCY.
/29 .........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
FIRE PREVENTION ADVICE * * * *
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT TODAY (WEDNESDAY) CALLED ON THE PUBLIC TO EXERCISE EXTRA CARE TO PREVENT FIRES IN VIEW OF THE DRY WEATHER.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THERE WAS A TOTAL OF 131 FIRE CALLS YESTERDAY (TUESDAY) AND 60 OF THEM WERE VEGETATION FIRES WHICH OCCURRED MOSTLY IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
"THE EXCEPTIONALLY DRY WEATHER IS ONE OF THE REASONS FOR THE LARGE NUMBER OF VEGETATION FIRES. HOWEVER, CARELESSNESS ON THE PART OF SOME RESIDENTS, INCLUDING PICNICKERS, SHOULD ALSO BE BLAMED," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THEY SHOULD NOT BURN RUBBISH IN OPEN SPACE OR LEAVE ANY FIRE UNATTENDED, BE IT IN A STOVE OR CONTAINER.
"THEY SHOULD HABITUALLY EXTINGUISH ALL FIRES AND REPORT IT IF THEY SEE ANY."
BLANKETS FOR STREET SLEEPERS » * » * *
FIELD STAFF OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT WILL MOUNT AN OPERATION TONIGHT (WEDNESDAY) TO DISTRIBUTE BLANKETS TO STREET SLEEPERS AND OTHERS IN NEED DUE TO THE COLD SPELL.
THE DISTRIBUTION WILL START AROUND 7.30 PM THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES WHO ARE INTERESTED IN FILMING THE DISTRIBUTION SHOULD ASSEMBLE AT THE HENRY G. LEONG YAUMATEI COMMUNITY CENTRE, 60 PUBLIC SQUARE STREET, YAU MA TEI AT 7.15 PM.
STAFF OF THE SWD INFORMATION UNIT WILL BE ON HAND TO ASSIST.
/30
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
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ANTI-DRUG SYMBOL DES. CONTEST RESULTS ANNOUNCED *******
A SIMPLE BUT ARTISTIC DESIGN SUBMITTED BY MR ALEX HO WAS CHOSEN THE WINNING ENTRY IN THE ANTI-DRUG SYMBOL DESIGN COMPETITION ORGANISED BY THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS (ACAN) TO LOOK FOR A LOGO TO COMMEMORATE ITS 25TH ANNIVERSARY NEXT YEAR.
WINNING OVER SOME 850 OTHER ENTRIES, MR HO’S DESIGN FEATURES A PAIR OF HOLDING HANDS WITHIN A HEART-SHAPE AND AN ARABIC FIGURE "25" IN SILVER AND RED COLOURS.
EXPLAINING THE CONCEPT OF THE DESIGN, MR HO, A 28-YEAR-OLD GRAPHIC DESIGNER, SAID THE PAIR OF HOLDING HANDS SIGNIFIED THE DETERMINATION AND CLOSE CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE PUBLIC AND THE ACAN IN THE WAR AGAINST NARCOTICS WHILE THE FIGURE "25" DENOTED THE SILVER JUBILEE OF THE COMMITTEE IN 1990.
ONE OF THE JUDGES, DESIGNER. MR NICHOLAS TSUI, COMMENTED: "THIS DESIGN NOT ONLY CLEARLY INDICATES ACAN’S SILVER JUBILEE BUT ALSO PROJECTS A POSITIVE APPROACH TOWARDS LIFE."
THE COMPETITION, ORGANISED WITH THE SUPPORT AND A CONTRIBUTION OF $100,000 FROM THE ORIENTAL DAILY NEWS, WAS THE FIRST ANTI-DRUG PUBLICITY EVENT RECEIVING PRIVATE SPONSORSHIP.
A SELECTION EXERCISE WAS HELD LAST WEEK TO DECIDE THE TOP THREE WINNERS AND 10 OTHER OUTSTANDING ENTRIES.
THE PANEL OF ADJUDICATORS COMPRISED DESIGNER MR NICHOLAS TSUI;
THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION SERVICES, MR PETER MOSS; COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, MR. DAVID WEEKS; AND DEPUTY MANAGER OF THE ORIENTAL DAILY NEWS, MR DANNY SIU.
IN ADDITION TO A TROPHY, THE WINNER OF THE COMPETITION WILL RECEIVE A CASH COUPON OF $5,000. THE FIRST RUNNER-UP, MR CHU KA-WING, AND THE SECOND RUNNER-UP, MR SIU KAM-FONG, WILL EACH RECEIVE CASH COUPONS OF $3,000 AND $2,000 RESPECTIVELY.
DESIGNERS OF THE 10 OTHER OUTSTANDING ENTRIES WILL EACH RECEIVE A SOUVENIR. THEY ARE MISS KWONG LAI-CHU, MISS LAM PTK-KWAN AND MESSRS YAN WAI-LUNG, LEUNG CH1-KEI, IP KAM-SHING, LAM MO-WAH, LEUNG SHEUNG-CHI, CHAN HO-YIN. NGA1 YIU-KAM AND CHOW HAU-CHEONG.
ALL THE AWARDEES WILL BE INFORMED BY POST SHORTLY.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
A PHOTOGRAPH OF THE WINNING DESIGN AND ANOTHER OF THE PANEL OF JUDGES SELECTING THE WINNING ENTRY WILL BE SENT BY FACSIMILE AND BOXED.
/31 ..........
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LADY WILSON PRAISES WORK OF FAMILY WELFARE SOCIETY t ♦ * * *
LADY WILSON TODAY (WEDNESDAY) PAID TRIBUTE TO THE HONG KONG FAMILY WELFARE SOCIETY FOR ITS CONTRIBUTION IN THE PAST 40 YEARS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF SERVICES FOR FAMILIES WHO NEED HELP.
ADDRESSING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION OF THE SOCIETY, LADY WILSON SAID THE ORGANISATION HAD COME A VERY LONG WAY SINCE IT BEGAN IN 1938 AS THE SOCIAL SERVICE CENTRE OF THE CHURCHES TO BECOME AN INDEPENDENT AGENCY IN 1949 KNOWN AS THE FAMILY WELFARE SOCIETY.
REFERRING TO THE DIFFERENT SERVICES OFFERED BY THE SOCIETY. LADY WILSON NOTED THAT IN THE COUNSELLING SERVICE MORE THAN 60 PER CENT OF NEW CASES WERE SELF-REFERRED.
’’THIS MEANS THAT THIS SERVICE HAS BECOME BETTER KNOWN, AND IS CLEARLY GREATLY APPRECIATED BY THE MANY FAMILIES WHO USE IT.
"I SINCERELY HOPE THAT BEFORE LONG, IT WILL BE POSSIBLE FOR ONE SOCIAL WORKER TO HAVE A WORKLOAD OF LESS THAN 77 FAMILIES OR INDIVIDUALS, AS THIS IS VERY HEAVY.
"WE MUST TRY TO AIM AT THE STANDARD SET IN 1981, OF 50 CASES FOR ONE WORKER, MAXIMUM.” SHE SAID.
THE SOCIETY’S PROPOSAL FOR A SENIOR SOCIAL WORK PRACTITIONER MIGHT BE HELPFUL IN PROMOTING HIGH MORALE AND RETAINING MORE EXPERIENCED STAFF IN DIRECT PRACTICE, SHE SAID.
ON FOSTER CARE. LAD\ WILSON HOPED THE SERVICE. WHICH HAD RUN FOR FIVE YEARS. WOULD RECEIVE MUCH SUPPORT AND THAT IN THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE COULD ACCOMMODATE MAN\ CHILDREN NEEDING RESIDENTIAL CARE, ESPECIALLY THE YOUNGER ONES.
SHE SAID THE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICE. WHICH WOULD SOON CELEBRATE ITS 1OTH YEAR, HAD DONE MUCH TO ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF MANY INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES, AND THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE.
THE HOME HELP SERVICE, WHICH STARTED IN 1971, HAD PIONEERED CARE FOR CHILDREN IN THEIR OWN.FAMILY HOMES, AND THIS VALUABLE SERVICE WAS STILL MUCH NEEDED, LADY WILSON NOTED.
"THE SERVICE ALSO OFFERS A VERY WIDE RANGE OF HELP TO MANY ELDERLY PEOPLE, AND OTHERS WHO ARE DISABLED OR LIVING ALONE, TO SHOP, TO GET MEALS, TO HAVE THEIR HOME CLEANED, SHOPPING DONE, TO GET ESCORTS, LAUNDRY SERVICE, OR BE VISITED," SHE SAID.
FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION, LADY WILSON SAID, WAS ANOTHER SERVICE THAT WAS FLOURISHING WITH ALMOST 300 PROGRAMMES ORGANISED LAST YEAR, MOST OF THEM EDUCATIONAL.
"THIS IS A MOST IMPORTANT SERVICE WHICH SEEKS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF FAMILY LIFE AND AIMS TO HELP PREVENT FAMILY BREAKDOWN." LADY WILSON SAID.
/ON THE .........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
32
ON THE SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK PROGRAMME, WHICH WAS SERVING 83 SECONDARY SCHOOLS, LADY WILSON SAID IT HAD DONE MUCH TO HELP STUDENTS OVERCOME EMOTIONAL, ACADEMIC OR HUMAN RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS.
SHE NOTED THAT ONE OF THE NEW PROJECTS OF THE SOCIETY WAS TO OFFER A MOST ECONOMICAL AND VALUABLE GROUP THERAPY SERVICE - TO HELP PEOPLE BETWEEN THE AGES OF 18 AND 45 WITH MILD MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS.
“IN PARTICULAR, THIS PROGRAMME AIMS TO HELP FAMILIES TO FUNCTION BETTER TOGETHERSHE SAID.
LADY WILSON ALSO MENTIONED THE FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE, WHICH SHE OPENED IN TUEN MUN IN AUGUST LAST YEAR.
'‘THIS CENTRE SEEMS TO HAVE HAD AN ATTENDANCE OF MORE THAN 7,500 ADULTS AND OVER 13,500 CHILDREN IN THE FIRST YEAR OF ITS EXISTENCE. ;
"I VERY MUCH -HOPE THAT MORE PROJECTS OF THIS SORT WILL BE SUPPORTED ALL OVER HONG KONG,. BUT PARTICULARLY IN THE NEW TOWNS, WHERE THEY ARE INVALUABLE," SHE SAID.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
A PHOTOGRAPH OF LADY WILSON TAKEN AT THE .RECEPTION WILL BE SENT BY FACSIMILE.
0
SYMPOSIUM FOR CLANSMEN, DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS
*****
MORE TH'AN 200 LEADERS OF ABOUT 70 CLANSMEN AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS WILL GATHER AT THE HENRY G. LEONG YAUMATEI COMMUNITY CENTRE TOMORROW (THURSDAY) TO SHARE THEIR EXPERIENCES IN SERVING THE COMMUNITY. •
THEY ARE PARTICIPANTS OF A SYMPOSIUM ORGANISED BY THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION ON THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF CLANSMEN AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS IN HONG KONG.
• . t -: >'
THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR DAVID LAN, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) SAID THE SYMPOSIUM WAS PART OF THE CNTA’S CONTINUING EFFORT IN 'REACHING OUT TO COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS AND ENCOURAGING THEM TO KEEP UP THEIR GOOD WORK IN SERVING RESIDENTS.
DURING THE PAST NINE MONTHS, CNTA HAD ORGANISED A SERIES OF "A STEP CLOSER" SEMINARS FOR AREA COMMITTEE MEMBERS. IN AUGUST ABOUT 300 KAIFONG ASSOCIATION LEADERS WERE INVITED TO A SYMPOSIUM TO DISCUSS THEIR ROLE IN THE OVERALL COMMUNITY BUILDING EFFORT.
/AS A .........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
33
AS A GRAND FINALE TO THE AREA COMMITTEE SEMINARS, ALL 89 AREA COMMITTEES IN THE URBAN AREA JOINTLY ORGANISED A PRESENTATION AT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH STADIUM ON NOVEMBER 18 WHICH WAS ATTENDED BY THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD.
"ALL THESE ACTIVITIES ARE PART OF CNTA’S INITIATIVE TO ENHANCE RESIDENTS’ COMMUNITY SPIRIT AND TO MAKE HONG KONG A MORE HARMONIOUS AND GENERALLY BETTER PLACE TO LIVE IN," MR LAN SAID.
SPEAKERS AT TOMORROW’S SYMPOSIUM WILL INCLUDE CLANSMEN AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATION LEADERS MR H.C. FUNG, MR LIU LIT-FOR, MR LEO LEE AND MR M.T. YIP.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE "CONTRIBUTIONS OF CLANSMEN AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS IN HONG KONG SYMPOSIUM WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 5.30 PM TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE IENRY G. LEONG YAUMATEI COMMUNITY CENTRE, 60 PUBLIC SQUARE STREET, YAU MA TEI.
DB COMMITTEE TO VET 32 FUNDING REQUESTS *****
THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE WILL VET 32 APPLICATIONS FOR DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS FOR ORGANISING ACTIVITIES IN THE COMING MONTHS AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
THE ACTIVITIES ARE PLANNED BY LOCAL BODIES SUCH AS AREA COMMITTEES, AND ARE VARIED IN NATURE.
THEY INCLUDE SEMINARS ON CIVIC EDUCATION AND HOUSING, FEASTS FOR THE ELDERLY, VARIETY SHOWS, FILM SHOWS, CANTONESE OPERA AND SPRING GATHERINGS.
IN TOTAL, ABOUT $300,000 IN DISTRICT BOARD FUNDS IS BEING SOUGHT.
THE COMMITTEE WILL ALSO RECEIVE REPORTS FROM A PUBLICITY WORKING GROUP, WORKING GROUP ON THE PREFERENTIAL SCHEMES FOR THE ELDERLY IN SHAM SHUI PO, AND A ANTI-SMOKING CAMPAIGN WORKING GROUP.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY) AT THE SHEK KIP MEI COMMUNITY HALL, BLOCK 42, SHEK KIP MEI ESTATE, NAM CHEONG ESTATE.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2 PM.
/34 ........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
34
DB COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER SOCCER PITCH SITE
******
MEMBERS OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE WILL CONSIDER THE SUITABILITY OF A SITE AT TUI MIN HOI FOR BUILDING A SOCCER PITCH AT THE COMMITTEE’S MEETING TOMORROW (THURSDAY).
THE PROPOSAL TO BUILD A SOCCER PITCH AT TUI MIN HOI WAS MADE IN RESPONSE TO THE REQUEST OF LOCAL RESIDENTS.
MEMBERS WILL ALSO DISCUSS VARIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION PROBLEMS IN SAI KUNG.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MlETING OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD’S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN THE DB CONFERENCE ROOM, SECOND FLOOR, SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 34 CHAN MAN STREET, SAI KUNG TOWN.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM.
APPLICATION FOR DB SUBSIDIES TO CLOSE SOON * * * ♦ ♦
RESIDENTS’ ORGANISATIONS AND LOCAL BODIES IN SOUTHERN WISHING TO SEH< DISTRICT BOARD SUBSIDIES FOR »OLDI»O activities during the lunar new year are reminded to APPLICATIONS BEFORE THE DEADLINE ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER
SEND
5.
DISTRICT FESTIVE
IN
THEIR
LATE APPLICATIONS EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES, TODAY (WEDNESDAYI.
WOULD NOT BE ACCEPTED
SOUTHERN DISTRICT BOARD
UNLESS SPOKESMAN
UNDER
SAID
APPLICATIONS COULD
BE
MADE TO THE DISTRICT BOARD’S SET ASIDE ABOUT $66,000 FOR
BUILDING COMMITTEE WHICH HAD --- Anni?n
SUCH ACTIVITIES TN THE DISTRICT’S SEVEN AREAS, HE ADDED.
COMMUNITY SPONSORING
A
T11F SPOKESMAN SAID THE COMMITTEE WOULD ALSO CONSIDER APPLICATIONS FOR SUBSIDIES FOR OTHER COMMUNITY BUILDING PROJECTS.
"THFSF CAN BE DISTRICT-BASED CULTURAL, RECREATIONAL OR SPORTS BVBNTS, SSar“ TORVRYS AND EXHIBITIONS, ALL OF WHICH SHOULD ATN AT PROMOTING COMMUNITY SPIRIT, SOCIAL COHESION AND BELONGING AMONG LOCAL PEOPLE,' HE SAID.
/FOR MORE .........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
35
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES, INTERESTED PARTIES MAY REFER TO THE GUIDELINES ON APPLICATIONS FOR SOUTHERN DISTRICT FUNDS.
COPIES OF THE GUIDELIK S AND APPLICATION FORMS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE SECRETARY OF THE COMMITTEE, MISS LEONIE MONG, AT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE, SECOND FLOOR, MEI FUNG COURT, 7-11 NAM NING STREET, ABERDEEN CENTRE.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE COMMITTEE WOULD MEET IN EARLY JANUARY TO CONSIDER APPLICATIONS. APPLICANTS WOULD BE NOTIFIED OF THE RESULTS IN WRITING.
0 - - - -
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS PROPOSED ACCESS ROAD »»»»»»
TH1 TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL PUT FORWARD A PROPOSAL FOR BUILDING A SOUTHERN ACCESS ROAD TO THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOG', IN TAI I" TSAI AT THE MEETING OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD'S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE ON FRIDAY (DECEMBER 1).
MEMBERS' VIEWS WILL BE SOUGHT ON THE ALIGNMENT AND CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE.
Till COMMITTEE WILL SUGGEST THAT A NEW BL'S ROUTE SHOULD BE INTRODUCED BETWEEN HONG SHING GARDEN IN TSEUNG KWAN O AND CLEAR WATER BAY TO CATER FOR THE NEEDS OF Till GROWING POPULATION IN THE NEW TOWN.
MEMBERS WIL! ALSO LOOK INTO THE ILLEGAL PARKING PROBLEM ON A SITE IN WAI MAN ROAD WHICH HAS BEEN EARMARKED FOR RECREATIONAL DEVELOPMENT BY THF REGIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT BOARD'S TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE TO HE HELD ON FRIDAY (DECEMBER II IN THE PB CONFERENCE ROOM, SECOND FLOOR, SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 34 CHAN MAN STREET. SAI KUNG TOWN.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 10 AM.
/36 ........
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
36 - *
SUPPLY OF NON-CONF1DENTIAL ESTABLISHMENT PARTICULARS TO PRIVATE SECTOR * » * * *
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT MAINTAINS A COMPREHENSIVE AND UP-TO-DATE COMPUTERISED ENTRAL REGISTER OF AROUND 350,000 ESTABLISHMENTS IN HONG KONG TO SERVE MAINLY AS THE SAMPLING FRAME FOR VARIOUS ECONOMIC SURVEYS OF THE DEPARTMENT.
MANY OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS ALSO MAKE USE OF THE REGISTER FOR PUBLICITY, SURVEY AND RESEARCH WORK.
STARTING FROM DECEMBER 1, A SAMPLE LISTING CONTAINING 20 PER CENT OF THE RECORDS RANDOMLY SELECTED FROM THE CENTRAL REGISTER WILL BE CREATED FOR USE OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN THEIR MARKET RESEARCH, STATISTICAL SURVEYS AND BUSINESS OR PRODUCT PROMOTION.
APPLICATIONS FOR THE SUPPLY OF A PHOTOCOPY OR A MAGNETIC TAPE OF THE LISTING OF NON-CONFIDENTIAL PARTICULARS SUCH AS THE NAME, ADDRESS, MAJOR TYPE OF BUSINESS ACTIVITY AND EMPLOYMENT SIZE CLASS OF INDIVIDUAL ESTABLISHMENTS IN THIS 20 PER CENT SAMPLE LISTING CAN BE MADE TO THE CENTRAL REGISTER SECTION OF THE DEPARTMENT.
A CHARGE WILL BE LEVIED FOR THIS SERVICE, AND THE RATES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
(A) $2.50 PER PAGE OF PHOTOCOPY; AND
(B) A MINIMUM CHARGE OF $340 FOR A JOB REQUIRING UP TO 20 CRU’S (COMPUTER RESOURCES UNITS) PLUS $17 FOR EACH CRU IN EXCESS OF 20 CRU’S, IF THE INFORMATION IS REQUIRED ON MAGNETIC TAPES. THE MAGNETIC TAPES ARE TO BE PROVIDED BY APPLICANTS.
FURTHER DETAILS ABOUT THE SERVICE CAN BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE CENTRAL REGISTER SECTION OF THE DEPARTMENT ON TEL. 5-8234760.
- - - - 0
TWO GOVT LOTS ON TSING Y1 TO LET BY TENDER
*****
THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE SHORT TERM TENANCY OF TWO LAND LOTS ON TSI NG YI ISLAND.
THE FIRST LOT, A 7,250-SQUARE-METRE SITE IN AREA 8, IS FOR OPEN STORAGE OF GOODS, EXCLUDING CONTAINERS AND CONTAINER VEHICLES.
THE TENANCY IS FOR THREE YEARS, RENEWABLE QUARTERLY AFTERWARDS.
/THE SECOND .......
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1989
THE SECOND LOT, LOCATED IN AREA 22 MEASURES ABOUT 32,370 SQUARE METRES. IT IS FOR OPEN STORAGE AND/OR LOADING, UNLOADING AND STORAGE OF CONTAINERS FROM SEA OR LAND (EXCLUDING STUFFING AND RE-STUFFING).
THE TENANCY IS FOR ONE YEAR, RENEWABLE QUARTERLY AFTERWARDS.
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF TENDERS FOR BOTH LOTS IS NOON ON DECEMBER 15.
FORMS OF TENDER, TENDER NOTICE AND CONDITIONS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM AND TENDER PLAN INSPECTED AT THE KWAI TSING DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, TSUEN WAN STATION MULTI-STOREY CARPARK BUILDING, CASTLE PEAK ROAD; THE BUILDINGS AND LANDS DEPARTMENT, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD; AND THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICES KOWLOON, YAU MA TEI CARPARK BUILDING, 250 SHANGHAI STREET.
0 - - - -
RIGHT-TURN BAN IN CENTRAL * * * * *
Till- TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES THAT FROM 10 AM (DECEMBER 1! ALL VEHICLES WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO TURN GILMAN STREET ONTO WESTBOUND CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL.
ON FRIDAY
RIGHT FROM
AFFECTED VEHICLES WILL BE ROAD CENTRAL AND THE U-TURN LOOP WESTBOUND CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL.
I) I VERTED V I A EASTBOUND CONNAUGHT ROAD NEAR PEDDER STREET TO JOIN
0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE. HONG KONG. TEL: 5-8428777
THURSDAY, NOVEbHEE JO, 19«9
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
BILL OF RIGHTS A LAW OF THE GREATEST SIGNIFICANCE: AG..... 1
GOVERNOR HOPES DISPUTE WILL BE RESOLVED SOON ............... 3
NON-INVASIVE CARDIAC LABORATORY IN PWH UPGRADED ............ 3
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE PROMOTIONS ANNOUNCED ..............
RTHK FUNCTION TO MARK USE OF NEW FREQUENCIES ............... 5
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON LANGUAGE STUDIES ............... 6
I
CLANSMEN AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS URGED TO FACE UP TO CHALLENGE.................................................. 7
BLANKETS FOR STREET SLEEPERS ............................... 9
AREA PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORK EFFICIENCY STUDIES ........... 9
HIGHWAYS DEPT MAINTENANCE CONTRACTOR TO BE REPLACED........ 10
DISPLAY ON EMPLOYMENT LAW .................................. 10
NEW COMMUNITY CENTRE IN SHAM G5TOI TO OPENS ON SATURDAY... 11
NEW PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE IN SHENNG SHUT .......... 12
I
NOMINATIONS FOR GOOD STUDENT AWARD......................... 12
DB COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS PROGRESS OF WORK PROJECTS.......... 13
SPORTS DAY FOR THE ELDERLY IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT............ 14
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR DEPENDANTS OF ACCIDENT VICTIMS... 1^
WATER CUT ON LAMMA ........................................ 15
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1989
BILL OF RIGHTS A LAW OF THE GREATEST SIGNIFICANCE: AG * * * t ♦
THE BILL OF RIGHTS WILL BE A LAW OF THE GREATEST SIGNIFICANCE TO US ALL, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR JEREMY MATHEWS, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE ANNUAL DINNER OF THE HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF CHARTERED SECRETARIES AND ADMINISTRATORS, MR MATHEWS SAID THAT THE BILL OF RIGHTS WILL, BY BEING PART OF OUR OWN LAW, PROVIDE A CLEAR CODE TO THE GOVERNMENT AND TO CIVIL SERVANTS AS TO A WHOLE RANGE OF PRINCIPLES THAT MUST DETERMINE ALL THEIR ACTIONS AND THE WAY THEY CARRY OUT THEIR TASKS.
IT WILL ALSO PRESENT A CHALLENGE TO THE JUDGES AND THE LAWYERS, HE SAID.
"THE GREATEST IMPACT WILL BE ON YOU, THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG. YOU WILL HAVE THE SECURE KNOWLEDGE THAT THE RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS THAT WE SO CHERISH ARE ENSHRINED IN A BILL OF RIGHTS, PROTECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT JUDICIARY AND FEARLESS LAWYERS, AND FULLY RECOGNISED AND SUPPORTED BY THE GOVERNMENT,” MR MATHEWS SAID.
HE SAID THAT THE MODEL FOR THE BILL OF RIGHTS IS THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS.
SOME OF THE IMPORTANT HUMAN RIGHTS SET OUT IN THE COVENANT INCLUDE PROVISIONS ON THE RIGHT TO LIBERTY AND SECURITY OF PERSON AND ON ARREST AND DETENTION; RECOGNITION AND EQUALITY BEFORE THE LAW AND FAIR TRIAL; EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION AND IDEAS; FREEDOM OF ASSEMBLY; AND FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION.
i
HE SAID THE COVENANT ALSO CONTAINS MANY OTHER IMPORTANT RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS - SUCH AS RIGHTS AFFECTING THE FAMILY, RIGHTS FOR CHILDREN, THE FREEDOM FROM ARBITRARY OR UNLAWFUL INTERFERENCE WITH A PERSON’S PRIVACY, FAMILY, HOME OR CORRESPONDENCE. AND THE FREEDOM OF THOUGHT, CONSCIENCE AND RELIGION.
ONE WOULD EXPECT TO FIND THESE PROVISIONS IN A BILL OF RIGHTS, HE SAID.
MR MATHEWS SAID THERE ARE THREE REASONS FOR MODELLING THE BILL ON THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS.
’’THE FIRST REASON IS THAT IT WOULD CORRESPOND WITH THE SINO-BRTT1SH JOINT DECLARATION WHICH GUARANTEES THE CONTINUED APPLICATION OF THE RELEVANT PROVISIONS OF THE COVENANT.
"SECOND, IT IS CONSISTENT WITH CHAPTER III OF THE DRAFT BASIC LAW, IN PARTICULAR ARTICLE 39 OF THE DRAFT WHICH STIPULATES THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS, THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS, AND INTERNATIONAL LABOUR CONVENTIONS AS APPLIED TO HONG KONG SHALL REMAIN IN FORCE AND SHALL BE IMPLEMENTED THROUGH THE LAWS OF THE HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION.
/’’THE THIRD..........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 50, 1989'
2
’’THE THIRD REASON IS THAT, AS THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS HAS BEEN ADOPTED BY MANY COUNTRIES IN THE UNITED NATIONS, THERE ARE AMPLE PRECEDENTS AND EXPERTISE UPON WHICH HONG KONG COULD DRAW,” MR MATHEWS SAID.
HE SAID THERE ARE TWO SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT ON THE SUGGESTION THAT THERE SHOULD BE A HUMAN RIGHTS COURT.
THE ARGUMENT FOR ESTABLISHING A HUMAN RIGHTS COURT IS THAT PROBLEMS OF HUMAN RIGHTS WOULD BE BETTER DEALT WITH BY JUDGES WHO ARE EXPERTS IN THIS FIELD AND SYMPATHETIC TO HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES.
THE ARGUMENT AGAINST ESTABLISHMENT OF SUCH A COURT IS THAT IT WOULD NOT NECESSARILY BE HELPFUL TO EXCLUDE THE BULK OF OUR JUDGES FROM MAKING DECISIONS ON SOMETHING SO FUNDAMENTAL AS HUMAN RIGHTS WHICH OUGHT TO BE A MAINSTREAM JUDICIAL ACTIVITY.
"THIS ISSUE. WITH MANY OTHERS, IS LIKELY TO BE THROWN UP DURING THE COURSE OF THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION OF THE BILL AND IS ONE TO WHICH THE GOVERNMENT WOULD GIVE VERY CAREFUL CONSIDERATION." HE SAID.
MR MATHEWS SAID THE BILL, ONGE IN FORCE, WILL EITHER REPEAL OR RENDER INOPERATIVE ALL PREVIOUS LAWS FOUND TO BE INCOMPATIBLE WITH IT.
IN VIEW OF THE TIMETABLE SET FOR THE ENACTMENT OF THE BILL, IT IS PROPOSED TO HAVE A "FREEZE” PERIOD AFTER THE PASSAGE OF THE BILL, DURING WHICH NO EXISTING LAWS CAN BE STRUCK DOWN.
"THIS WOULD ALLOW IS TIME TO CONTINUE TO REVIEW ALL EXISTING LAWS TO IDENTIFY AREAS OF DOUBT," HE SAID.
BUT THIS "FREEZE” WOULD ONLY APPLY TO EXISTING LAWS. ALL NEW LAWS MADE AFTER THE BILL IS ENACTED WOULD BE SUBJECT TO IT.
"IN OTHER WORDS, THE BILL OF RIGHTS WOULD BE A LIVING LAW FROM THE START," HE SAID.
MR MATHEWS NOTED THAT ONE OF THE CRITICISMS ADVANCED AGAINST BILLS OF RIGHTS IS THAT THEY ARE VAGUE AND GENERAL. THIS HAS THE DISADVANTAGE, AS SOME WOULD DESCRIBE IT, THAT THERE IS SOME UNCERTAINTY AS TO 'HIE SCOPE AND MEANING OF THE LAW AT ANY GIVEN TIME.
"BUT ON THE OTHER HAND IT GIVES PERSONS WITH GRIEVANCES THE CHANCE TO ARGUE THEIR CASE FOR A REMEDY IN THE COURTS. THE ANSWERS GIVEN BY THE JUDGES WILL REFLECT THE CHANGING ATTITUDES OF SOCIETY,” HE SAID.
THE GOVERNMENT AIMS TO PUBLISH A WHITE BILL FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION BY THE END OF DECEMBER.
-------0---------
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30,
1989
- 3 -
GOVERNOR HOPES DISPUTE WILL BE RESOLVED SOON
THE GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID WILSON, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT HE HOPED THE DISPUTE BETWEEN THE CHINA MOTOR BUS COMPANY AND ITS WORKERS WOULD BE RESOLVED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE SO THAT THE AMOUNT OF DISRUPTION TO THE ORDINARY TRAVELLING PUBLIC COULD BE KEPT TO THE VERY MINIMUM.
SIR DAVID WAS RESPONDING TO A PRESS QUESTION AFTER OFFICIATING AT THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC 17TII GRADUATION CEREMONY.
------0-------
NON-INVASIVE CARDIAC LABORATORY IN PWH UPGRADED t t ♦ t *
THE NON-INVASIVE CARDIAC LABORATORY TN THE PRINCE OF WALES HOSPITAL (PWH) HAS RECENTLY BEEN UPGRADED FOLLOWING THE ACQUISITION OF A NEW COLOUR DOPPLER ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC MACHINE, THE FIRST OF ITS KIND INSTALLED IN A GOVERNMENT HOSPITAL.
THE MACHINE WAS TODAY (THURSDAY) OFFICIALLY HANDED OVER TO THE CARDIOLOGY UNIT OF THE PWH BY DR HARRY FANG, STEWARD OF THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB Will'’ll HAS GENEROUSLY DONATED $1.8 MILLION TO THE GOVERNMENT FOR THE PURCHASE OF THE EQUIPMENT AND OTHER ACCESSORIES.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HOSPITAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT SAID THAT THE NEU ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC MACHINE, WITH CIS ASSOCIATED DOPPLER FLOW AND COLOUR MAPPING DEVICES AND IMAGE PROCESSING ACCESSORIES, WILL IMPROVE CONSIDERABLY CARDIOLOGIC SERVICE IN PWH, WHICH IS BOTH A SERVICE AND A TEACHING HOSPITAL.
"THE DEPARTMENT OF MEDICINE IN PWH, THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG AND THE GOVERNMENT ARE EXTREMELY GRATEFUL TO THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB FOR THE GENEROSITY AND PUBLIC SPIRITED GESTURE THROUGH WHICH PATIENT CARE, TEACHING AND RESEARCH WILL ALL BE IMPROVED."
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT NON-INVASIVE INVESTIGATORY PROCEDURES FOR DIAGNOSIS AND ASSESSMENT OF HEART DISEASES ARE PREFERRED TO THE CONVENTIONAL INVASIVE PROCEDURES BECAUSE THEY ARE NON-TRAUMATIC. SAFE AND (’AN BE PERFORMED REPEATEDLY.
"OF CENTRAL IMPORTANCE TO NON-INVASIVE INVESTIGATIONS OF HEART FUNCTIONS IS ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY.
"THIS INVOLVES TRANSMISSION OF HIGH FREQUENCY ULTRA-SONIC WAVES WHICH ARE REFLECTED FROM HEART STRUCTURES AND CONVERTED INTO VISUAL IMAGES SHOWING UP DETAILED \ND ACCURATE PICTURES OF THE STRUCTURE OF THE HEART." HE EXPLAINED.
/THE SPOKEMAN .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1989
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THE DOPPLER COLOUR FLOW MAPPING IS THE NEWEST TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCE TO PROVIDE A REAL TIME VISUALISATION OF INTRACARDIAC BLOOD FLOW.
THIS IS PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT IN DIAGNOSING CONGENITAL HEART DISEASES AND OTHER ABNORMALITIES TN THE ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE AND VALVE FUNCTIONS OF THE HEART.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT HEART DISEASE IS THE SECOND LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN HONG KONG IN RECENT YEARS AND IS OCCURRING IN A PROGRESSIVELY YOUNGER AGE GROUP. THEREFORE, EARLY RECOGNITION AND TREATMENT ARE OF VITAL IMPORTANCE.
-----0------
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE PROMOTIONS ANNOUNCED
*****
THE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY) THE FOLLOWING SUBSTANTIVE PROMOTIONS TO SENIOR RANKS IN THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE:
TO SECRETARY, GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT
MR YEUNG KAI-YIN MR JOHN CHAN CHO-CHAK TO ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY STAFF GRADE A
MR PATRICK WILLIAMSON COMMISSIONER FOR CUSTOMS AND EXCISE
MR STEUART WEBB-JOHNSON MINISTER, BRUSSELS
MR JAMES SO YIU-CHO DIRECTOR OF URBAN SERVICES
MR ALISTAIR ASPREY DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR SECURITY
MR HAIDER BARMA DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL SERVICES
MR TYEBJEE BARMA DIRECTOR OF INDUSTRY
MRS ELIZABETH WONG CHIEN CHI-LIEN DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE
MR MICHAEL SZE CHO-CHEUNG DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE
--------0----------
THURSDAY. NOVEMBER 30, 1989
- 5 -
RTHK FUNCTION TO MARK USE OF NEW FREQUENCIES
*****
RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG WILL HOLD A ’’NEW WAVES NITE” ON SATURDAY (DECEMBER 2) TO MARK THE COMING INTO OPERATION OF ITS NEW BROADCASTING FREQUENCIES.
THE FUNCTION WILL START AT 11 PM, AND CONTINUE TO 1 AM THE NEXT DAY (SUNDAY).
THE SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR AUGUSTINE CHUI, AND THE DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING, MISS CHEUNG MAN-YEE, WILL PERFORM A SWITCHING-ON CEREMONY AT MIDNIGHT TO START BROADCASTING ON THE NEW FREQUENCIES, USHERING IN A NEW ERA IN LOCAL BROADCASTING.
THE FUNCTION WILL FEATURE A NIGHT RADIO PROGRAMME AND A PARTY WHICH WILL AT FIRST BE BROADCAST LIVE ON THE OLD FREQUENCIES, AND THEN SWITCHED TO THE NEW FREQUENCIES AFTER MIDNIGHT.
IN ADDITION, A ’’PROGRAMME PARADE" WILL BE PERFORMED BY STAFF OF RTHK'S CHANNEL 1, 2, 3, 4 AND 5.
GUESTS AT THE FUNCTION WILL INCLUDE THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, MR DOMINIC WONG, COMMUNITY LEADERS, SINGERS, TV AND FILM ARTISTES, AND CANTONESE OPERA PERFORMERS.
AFTER THE FUNCTION, A "SONG DEDICATION PROGRAMME” WILL BE BROADCAST ON RADIO 1 AND 2 FROM 1 AM TO 6 AM.
RTHK HAS ALSO ARRANGED A JOINT BROADCAST WITH A RADIO STATION IN NEW YORK TO MARK THE OCCASION.
RTHK’S NEW FREQUENCIES ARE: RADIO 1 FM 92.6; RADIO 2 FM 94.8; RADIO 3 AM 567/1584; RADIO 4 FM 97.6; RADIO 5 AM 783; AND RADIO 7 AM 621 .
THE USE OF NEW FREQUENCIES IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE A BETTER SERVICE FOR THE WHOLE TERRITORY.
LISTENERS WHO WISH TO MAKE ENQUIRIES AFTER THE NEW FREQUENCIES COME INTO OPERATION MAY TELEPHONE RTHK ON 3-3051240 DURING OFFICE HOURS.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE FUNCTION TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY (DECEMBER 2) IN STUDIO ONE OF RTHK, 30 BROADCAST DRIVE. KOWLOON. A RECEPTION TO MARK THE OCCASION WILL BEGIN AT 10.30 PM.
-------0----------
/6........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30,
1989 '
- 6 -
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON LANGUAGE STUDIES t * t t t
THE INSTITUTE OF LANGUAGE IN EDUCATION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD ITS FIFTH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON LANGUAGE STUDIES AND LANGUAGE TEACHER EDUCATION BETWEEN DECEMBER 13 AND 15.
THE CONFERENCE WILL BE HELD FOR THE SECOND TIME IN THE HONG KONG CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE IN WAN CHAI.
THE THEME OF THE CONFERENCE IS ’’LANGUAGE USE, LANGUAGE TEACHING AND THE CURRICULUM”, IN BRIEF, ’’LULTAC ’89".
RESPONSE FROM LOCAL AND OVERSEAS INSTITUTES AND COMPANIES TO THIS YEAR’S CONFERENCE HAS BEEN VERY ENCOURAGING AND THERE ARE ONLY A LIMITED NUMBER OF PLACES LEFT, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO ATTEND THE CONFERENCE ARE ADVISED TO ENROL NOW AS THERE WILL BE NO ENROLMENT AT THE VENUE.
THE REGISTRATION FEE FOR THE CONFERENCE WILL COVER ATTENDANCE AT THE CONFERENCE AND LUNCH ON THE THREE DAYS OF THE CONFERENCE, ABSTRACTS OF PAPERS IN THE CONFERENCE AND TWO BOUND VOLUMES (*OF CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS IN ENGLISH AND CHINESE.
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE FOR REGISTERED TEACHERS IN GOVERNMENT AND AIDED SCHOOLS TO RECEIVE A PARTIAL REFUND OF THEIR REGISTRATION FEES.
FURTHER DETAILS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE INSTITUTE OF LANGUAGE IN EDUCATION ON THE 21ST FLOOR, PARK-IN COMMERCIAL CENTRE, 56 DUNDAS STREET, MONG KOK. TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES MAY BE MADE ON 3-7719418. ENROLMENT IN PERSON CAN BE MADE AT THE ABOVE ADDRESS.
THE ISSUES THE CONFERENCE WILL ADDRESS THIS YEAR ARE OF MAJOR CONCERN TO HONG KONG WHERE THERE IS GREAT PUBLIC INTEREST IN THE ROLES AND FUNCTIONS OF CHINESE AND ENGLISH IN THE FIELDS OF EDUCATION, INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE.
THE CONFERENCE WILL RE-EXPLORE LANGUAGE TEACHING CONCERNS WITHIN A CONTEXT OF NEW INSIGHTS INTO LANGUAGE USE AND LANGUAGE LEARNING.
IT WILL RE-APPRAISE THE COMPONENTS OF LANGUAGE LEARNING AND TEACHING IN RELATION TO LANGUAGE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT, AND WILL RE-EXAMINE THE PLACE OF LITERATURE IN LANGUAGE EDUCATION.
IN ADDITION, IT WILL ENCOURAGE THE SHARING OF AND DISCUSSION ON THE DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF CURRICULUM INITIATIVES, MANAGEMENT OF CHANGES IN THE CURRICULUM AND THE RESEARCH FINDINGS OF CURRICULUM INNOVATIONS.
/A TOTAL .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER JO, 1989
A TOTAL OF 139 PAPERS AND WORKSHOPS ARE TO BE PRESENTED IN ENGLISH AND CHINESE BY WORLD EXPERTS IN THE FIELD.
FOR THE FIRST TIME, THE CONFERENCE WILL INTRODUCE A PANEL DISCUSSION TO MAKE THE OCCASION A PRIME ONE FOR ACADEMICS AND PRACTITIONERS DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN LANGUAGE AND EDUCATION, AS WELL AS FOR MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY WHO ARE INTERESTED IN LANGUAGE EDUCATION, ITS PRESENT AND ITS FUTURE.
THE PANEL DISCUSSION WILL DEVOTE ITS DELIBERATIONS TO "LANGUAGE PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTING LANGUAGE USE".
THE CONFERENCE WILL BE ATTENDED BY SOME OF THE WORLD’S LEADING SPECIALISTS IN THE FIELD OF LANGUAGE LEARNING AND TEACHING.
THEY INCLUDE PROFESSOR JOAN RUBIN OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA, USA; PROFESSOR THEODORE RODGERS AND PROFESSOR LI YING-CHE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII, USA; PROFESSOR CHRISTOPHER CANDLIN OF MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY, AUSTRALIA; PROFESSOR JOHN SINCLAIR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM, UK, PROFESSOR BJORN JERNUDD OF THE NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE; PROFESSOR LIN TAO OF BEIJING UNIVERSITY, AND PROFESSOR XU SI-YI OF SIN KIANG UNIVERSITY, CHINA; AND LEADING FIGURES IN LANGUAGE AND LANGUAGE EDUCATION FROM OVER 24 OVERSEAS COUNTRIES.
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CLANSMEN AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS URGED TO FACE UP TO CHALLENGE
* t t t t
THE REGIONAL SECRETARY FOR HONG KONG AND KOWLOON, MR DAVID LAN, TODAY (THURSDAY) CALLED ON CLANSMEN AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS TO CONTRIBUTE, TOWARDS BUILDING A BETTER COMMUNITY IN THE 1990'S.
MR LAN WAS SPEAKING AT A SEMINAR ORGANISED BY THE CITY AND ’ NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION FOR THE ASSOCIATIONS.
THE FUNCTION REPRESENTED ANOTHER EFFORT BY THE CNTA TO STRENGTHEN RELATIONS WITH COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS, FOLLOWING THE SUCCESS OF A SERIES OF SIMILAR FUNCTIONS FOR AREA COMMITTEES AND KAIFONG ASSOCIATIONS.
MR LAN DESCRIBED THE 1990'S AS A "CHALLENGING ERA" FOR HONG
KONG
ON ONE HAND LOCAL PEOPLE WOULD HAVE TO FACE UP TO THE IMPACT TO BE BROUGHT ABOUT BY THE DEVELOPMENT OF REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT AND THE BRAIN DRAIN; ON THE OTHER HAND, THE TERRITORY WOULD BE ENTERING INTO "AN ERA OF MAJOR CONSTRUCTIONS", WHICH INCLUDE A NEW AIRPORT, ROAD NETWORKS, TUNNELS AND MANY' OTHER PROJECTS IN BOTH THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS, HE SAID.
/THE 1990'S
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 50, 1989
8 -
THE 1990’S WOULD ALSO WITNESS A RAPID DEVELOPMENT OF TERTIARY EDUCATION, WITH THE NUMBER OF TERTIARY PLACES INCREASED TO 67,000 BY 1995. THIS WOULD MAKE UNIVERSITY OR POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION AVAILABLE TO ONE IN EVERY FOUR YOUNG PERSONS - A PROPORTION BETTER THAN THOSE IN MANY ADVANCED WESTERN COUNTRIES.
MR LAN, THEREFORE, CALLED ON THE VARIOUS LOCAL ORGANISATIONS TO FACE UP TO THE FORTHCOMING "UNPRECEDENTED CHANGES AND CHALLENGE" WITH THE DETERMINATION AND RESILIENCE SYNONYMOUS WITH HONG KONG PEOPLE.
HE ALSO URGED THESE ORGANISATIONS TO ASSIST IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND VARIOUS INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENTS TO ENSURE THAT THE TERRITORY WOULD CONTINUE TO PROGRESS.
MR LAN PRAISED LOCAL CLANSMEN AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS FOR CONTRIBUTING TOWARDS HONG KONG’S SU CESS ON VARIOUS FRONTS.
"APART FROM PROMOTING CLANSMENSHIP, THESE ASSOCIATIONS HAVE BEEN INCREASINGLY CONCERNED WITH THE WELL-BEING OF THE COMMUNITY.
"THEY HAVE ACTIVELY PARTICIPATED IN COMMUNITY BUILDING ACTIVITIES AND SUPPORTED VARIOUS GOVERNMENT POLICIES THAT BENEFIT THE PUBLIC," HE NOTED.
MR LAN RECALLED THAT CLANSMEN AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS RENDERED VALUABLE SERVICES IN THE PROVISION OF EMERGENCY RELIEF IN THE WAKE OF THE MAJOR SHEK KIP MEI FIRE IN DECEMBER 1953, TYPHOON WANDA TN AUGUST 1962, AND SERIOUS LANDSLIDES IN JUNE 1972.
MANY SECONDARY AND PRIMARY SCHOOLS AS WELL AS OTHER COMMUNITY FACILITIES SUCH AS CLINICS WERE CURRENTLY RUN BY THESE ASSOCIATIONS, HE SAID.
A NUMBER OF GUESTS SPOKE ON VARIOUS TOPICS AT THE SEMINAR. THIA INCLUDED NR H.C. FUNG. MR LIU LIT-FOR, MR LEO LEE AND MR M.T. YIP.
THE SPEAKERS GENERALLY AGREED THAT THE I99O’S OFFERED EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR CLANSMEN AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATIONS TO SHOW THEIR VIGOUR \ND STRENGTH TOWARDS BUILDING A BETTER 1’OMoRROW FOR HONG KONG.
THEY7 SUGGESTED THAT OPPORTUNITIES SHOULD BE GIVEN TO YOUNGER MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATIONS TO TAKE A MORE ACTIVE AND LEADING ROLE IN THE CONDUCT OF BUSINESS OF THESE ASSOCIATIONS.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1989
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BLANKETS FOR STREET SLEEPERS
*****
A TOTAL OF 167 FIELD STAFF OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT DISTRIBUTED BLANKETS TO STREET SLEEPERS IN AN OPERATION LAST (WEDNESDAY) NIGHT.
A TOTAL OF 508 BLANKETS AND SLEEPING BAGS WERE DISTRIBUTED TO 158 STREET SLEEPERS ON HONG KONG ISLAND, 251 IN WEST KOWLOON, 39 IN EAST KOWLOON, 26 IN NEW TERRITORIES EAST AND 15 IN NEW TERRITORIES WEST.
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AREA PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETW <i('K EFFICIENCY STUDIES
******
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT HAS COMMISSIONED THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF AREA TRANSPORT STUDIES AS PART OF ITS CONTINUING EFFORT TO IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES.
A $3.15 Mil.LION CONTRACT FOR THE STUDY WAS SIGNED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT, MR PANG
HAU-CHUNG, AND THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF MVA CONSULTANCY, MR F N BROWN.
THE OBJECTIVE OF THE SEVEN-MONTH PROJECT IS TO REVIEW THE EFFICIENCY OF THE EXISTING PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORKS IN THE EASTERN NEW TERRITORIES BY INVESTIGATING HOW FAR THEY MEET PUBLIC DEMAND IN BOTH THE ROUTEING AND SERVICE QUALITY OF BUS AND GREEN MINIBUS SERVICES.
THE TECHNIQUE IN CONDUCTING THE STUDY WILL SUBSEQUENTLY BE APPLIED TO THE STUDY OF TRANSPORT NETWORKS IN OTHER AREAS.
THE STUDY REFLECTS TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT’S POLICY TO IMPROVE PUBLIC TRANSPORT MONITORING AND PLANNING METHODS.
EXTENSIVE SURVEYS WILL BE CONDUCTED ON SUCH MATTERS AS PASSENGERS' PREFERENCES AND THE FINANCIAL VIABILITY OF DIFFERENT NETWORK OPERATIONS.
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/1O
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1989
10
HIGHWAYS DEPT MAINTENANCE CONTRACTOR TO BE REPLACED ♦ * * * *
AS THE CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBLE FOR HIGHWAYS MAINTENANCE WORKS IN THE NORTHERN AND WESTERN AREAS OF HONG KONG ISLAND HAS CEASED WORK AT VARIOUS SITES, THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT IS NOW INVITING TENDERS FOR A NEW TERM MAINTENANCE CONTRACT.
A HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THE NEW CONTRACT WAS EXPECTED TO COMMENCE IN MID-JANUARY NEXT YEAR.
’’THE DEPARTMENT IS TAKING ACTION TO ARRANGE FOR THE MORE URGENT AND PRESSING WORKS TO CONTINUE BEFORE A NEW CONTRACTOR IS SELECTED.
”WE WILL DO OUR UTMOST TO ATTEND TO COMPLAINTS IN CONNECTION WITH ROAD WORKS WHICH MAY POSE A DANGER OR CAUSE UNDUE INCONVENIENCE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC,” HE SAID.
”WE REGRET NOT BEING ABLE T MAINTAIN THE NORMAL LEVEL OF SERVICES IN REGARD TO THE CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF ROADS, DRAINS AND SLOPE WORKS IN THE ARFAS IN THE NEXT TWO MONTHS,” THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
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DISPLAY ON EMPLOYMENT LAW
*****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL STAGE A MOBILE EXHIBITION IN TWO PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES IN SHA TIN AND TAI PO NEXT MONTH TO PROMOTE PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF EMPLOYMENT LAWS.
THE EXHIBITION IS ORGANISED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S LABOUR RELATIONS PROMOTION UNIT AND HAS BEEN STAGED IN VARIOUS DISTRICTS THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY SINCE JULY. IT IS AIMED AT PUBLICISING THE PROVISIONS OF THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE AND THE STATUTORY ENTITLEMENTS OF WORKERS.
USING SIMPLE LANGUAGE AND INTERESTING CARTOONS, THE EXHIBITION EXPLAINS PROVISIONS IN THE ORDINANCE OF GENERAL INTEREST INCLUDING LONG SERVICE PAY, SICKNESS ALLOWANCE, MATERNITY PROTECTION, STATUTORY HOLIDAY, PAID ANNUAL LEAVE, END-OF-YEAR PAYMENT AND TERMINATION OF CONTRACTS.
LABOUR DEPARTMENT STAFF WILL BE PRESENT TO ANSWER QUESTIONS ON EMPLOYMENT AND LABOUR RELATIONS MATTERS.
THERE WILL ALSO BE A QUIZ ON EMPLOYMENT LEGISLATION WITH A LUCKY DRAW FOR SUCCESSFUL PARTICIPANTS.
THE EXHIBITION WILL BE HELD AT THE COMMERCIAL COMPLEXES IN WO CHE ESTATE IN SHA TIN FROM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) DECEMBER 3 AND IN FU SHIN ESTATE IN TAI PO FROM DECEMBER 15 TO 17. OPENING HOURS ARE FROM 9.30 AM TO 5.30 PM.
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/11 .......
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1989
11
NEW COMMUNITY CENTRE IN SHAM SHUI PO OPENS ON SATURDAY
» * * * *
A NEW COMMUNITY CENTRE IN THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT WILL BE OPENED ON SATURDAY (DECEMBER 2).
SITUATED TN NAM CHEONG ESTATE NEXT TO THE SHAM SHUI PO FERRY PIER, THE SIX-STOREY CENTRE WILL SERVE A POPULATION OF ABOUT 110,000 IN THE NAM CHEONG AREA.
THE CENTRE IS MANAGED BY THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION. IT HAS A MULTI-PURPOSE HALL, A CONFERENCE ROOM AND A BASTKETBALL COURT, ALL OF WHICH CAN BE USED BY LOCAL ORGANISATIONS.
APPLICATIONS FOR RENTING THE FACILITIES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE NAM CHEONG SUB-OFFICE OF THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT OFFICE.
THE NEW CENTRE ALSO HOUSES A CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY OPERATED BY SIK SIR YUEN AND A CHILDREN’S DAY CARE CENTRE RUN BY THE PENTECOSTAL CHURCH OF HONG KONG.
THE CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY PROVIDES HOME-CARE AND COUNSELLING SERVICES, AS WELL AS RECREATIONAL AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR AGED PEOPLE, WHILE THE CHILDREN’S CENTRE OFFERS 100 PLACES FOR CHILDREN IN THE AREA.
IN ADDITION, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT PROVIDES FAMILY AND SOCIAL SECURITY SERVICES AND RUNS A WORK UNIT IN THE CENTRE.
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING OF THE CENTRE AT 2.15 PM ON SATURDAY WILL BE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT OFFICER, MR ALAN FUNG; DISTRICT BOARD CHAIRMAN, MR TAI TUNG-NGOK; POLICE DISTRICT COMMANDER, MR GERALD FRITH; DISTRICT SOCIAL WELFARE OFFICER (SHAM SHUI PO), MISS CHAN JOY-YIN; AND SENIOR HOUSING MANAGER, MR JOHN LUK.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE NAM CHEONG COMMUNITY CENTRE ON SATURDAY (DECEMBER 2) AT NAM CHEONG ESTATE. THE CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 2.15 PM.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1989
NEW PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE IN SHEUNG SHUI * * * * *
A NEW PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE IN TIN PING ESTATE, SHEUNG SHUI, WILL START OPERATION TOMORROW (FRIDAY), PROVIDING A WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES.
THE CENTRE IS LOCATED AT UNIT 105, ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF TIN HOR HOUSE IN TIN PING ESTATE.
"IT WILL HANDLE ENQUIRIES FROM THE INCREASING POPULATION IN THE AREA," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
"THE SERVICES AVAILABLE INCLUDE ANSWERING GENERAL ENQUIRIES, ADMINISTERING DECLARATIONS, GIVING ADVICE ON SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE GOVERNMENT, HANDLING SIMPLE COMPLAINTS AGAINST GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, RENDERING ASSISTANCE IN SOLVING PERSONAL PROBLEMS AND ARRANGING REFERRALS FOR COMPLICATED CASES WHICH REQUIRE LEGAL OR EXPERT ADVICE.
"THE CENTRE WILL ALSO HELP TO DISTRIBUTE GOVERNMENT FORMS, LEAFLETS, POSTERS, CONSULTATIVE DOCUMENTS AND OTHER PUBLICITY MATERIALS," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
THE CENTRE WILL BE OPEN FROM 8.45 AM TO 5.15 PM FROM MONDAY TO FRIDAY, AND FROM 9 AM TO 12 NOON ON SATURDAY.
STATUTORY DECLARATION SERVICE WILL BE PROVIDED AT THE CENTRE BETWEEN 2 PM AND 4.30 PM EVERY WEDNESDAY.
THE TELEPHONE NUMBER OF THE TIN PING PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE IS 0-6706211.
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NOMINATIONS FOR GOOD STUDENT AWARD * * * * *
NOMINATIONS FOR THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT GOOD STUDENT AWARD SCHEME WILL OPEN TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
NOMINATION FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE FROM THE DISTRICT OFFICE’S THREE PUBLIC ENQUIRY CENTRES AT HARBOUR BUILDING, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES (WEST WING) AND BELCHER’S STREET.
COMPLETED FORMS SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE SECRETARIAT OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE (DFCC) AT 11TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, NOT LATER THAN DECEMBER 21.
/A DFCC
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1989
A DFCC SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THE NOW IN ITS THIRD YEAR, HAD BECOME INCREASINGLY POPULAR PRINCIPALS AND STUDENTS IN THE DISTRICT.
AWARD
WITH
SCHEME, SCHOOL
AS IN PREVJOl,s YEARS, THE SCHEME WILL ATTEMPT TO ENHANCE A 2NDrARY SCHOOL STUDENTS’ AWARENESS OE THE WORK OF THE LOCAL DFCC SO IrrfviTTrQ W0ULl> PARTICIPATE MORE ACTIVELY IN CRIME PREVENTION
STUDENTS NOMINATED FOR THE SCHEME WILL BE JUDGED BY THEIR ACADEMK’ ACHIEVEMENTS, CONDUCT AND PARTICIPATION IN EXTRA-CURRICULAR OR SOCIAL SERVICE ACTIVITIES,” HE ADDED.
vvAr> F1NALISTS w*LL BE SELECTED BY A PANEL OF JUDGES EARLY NEXT },RAR’ ANI> EACH WIIjL RECEIVE A TROPHY AND $1,000 SCHOLARSHIP. THE BEST FOUR AMONG THEM WILL BE AWARDED A FREE OVERSEAS STUDY TOUR NEXT APRIL.
THE AWARD SCHEME HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY ASSISTANCE FROM THE DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE COMMUNITY’ RELATIONS OFFICES.
THE LOCAL DFCC WITH DISTRICT’S TWO POLICE
IT IS ALSO BEING JOINTLY SPONSORED BY THE CENTRAL AND DISTRICT BOARD, THE MOUNT CAMERON OF HONG KONG LIONS CLUB, TOSHIBA LTD, THE BANGKOK BANK AND THE PHOENIX LIONS CLUB.
WESTERN
MAN ON
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DB COMMITTEE ’I’O DISCUSS PROGRESS OF WORK PROJECTS ♦ t■ ♦ t t
THE CULTURE. RI CREATION AND SPORTS AND COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE OF Till KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD WILL DISCUSS THE PROGRESS OF PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS IN Till DISTRICT AT ITS MEETING TOMORROW (FRI DAY).
MEMBERS WILL ALSO REV JEW THE LATEST FINANCIAL SITUATION OF THE COMMITTEE.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE MEETING OF THE KWUN TONG DISTRICT BOARD’S CULTURE. RECREATION AND SPORTS AND COMMUNITY BUILDING COMMITTEE TO BE HELD TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, 6 TUNG YAK STREET.
THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 2.30 PM.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1989
1U
SPORTS DAY FOR THE ELDERLY IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT
*****
ABOUT 500 ELDERLY PEOPLE WILL TAKE PART IN A SPORTS DAY FOR THE ELDERLY IN THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT ON SATURDAY (DECEMBER 2) IN AN ACTIVITY OF THE CURRENT DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE, THE DISTRICT RECREATION AND SPORTS COUNCIL, THE URBAN COUNCIL AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT, THE EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE ABERDEEN SPORTS GROUND IN WONG CHUK HANG FROM 9.30 AM TO NOON.
THERE WILL BE SIX TELEMATCHES WHICH HAVE BEEN CAREFULLY DESIGNED FOR THE ELDERLY.
LAST WEEK, THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE HELD TWO CRUISES ESPECIALLY FOR ELDERLY RESIDENTS AND DISABLED PERSONS.
DURING THEIR TRIPS ALONG THE DISTRICT’S SHORELINE ON BOARD A YACHT, THE PARTICIPANTS WERE ABLE TO ENJOY THE DISTRICT’S SCENERY IN DEEP WATER BAY, REPULSE BAY AND STANLEY, AND VIEW ITS LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN KELLET BAY AND TELEGRAPH BAY.
THEY WERE ALSO TREATED TO LUNCH IN A FLOATING RESTAURANT AND WERE GIVEN SOUVENIRS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE SAID THE PURPOSE OF THESE FUNCTIONS WAS TO ENABLE THE ELDERLY AND THE DISABLED IN THE DISTRICT TO SHARE THE FUN OF THE DISTRICT FESTIVAL.
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FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR DEPENDANTS OF ACCIDENT VICTIMS
*****
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) APPROVED PAYMENT OF $86,940 FROM THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS ASSISTANCE (TAVA) FUND TO DEPENDANTS OF TWO MEN KILLED IN A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT ON NOVEMBER 17.
A MOULD-MAKING WORKER, MR WAN KEUNG, AGED 32, AND A FACTORY WORKER, MR WONG SIU-MAN, AGED 59, WERE KILLED WHEN A PUBLIC LIGHT BUS CRASHED INTO A METAL SHOP IN TEXACO ROAD, TSUEN WAN.
FOUR OTHER PERSONS WERE INJURED IN THE ACCIDENT. THEIR APPLICATIONS FOR ASSISTANCE ARE BEING PROCESSED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S TAVA SECTION.
THE TAVA SCHEME PROVIDES QUICK FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT VICTIMS OR THEIR DEPENDANTS WITHOUT TAKING REGARD OF THE MEANS OF A FAMILY OR THE ELEMENT OF FAULT IN THE CAUSE OF THE ACCIDENT.
/BENEFICIARIES UNDER........
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER JO, 1989
BENEFICIARIES UNDER THE SCHEME STILL RETAIN THE RIGHT TO MAKE CLAIMS FOR LEGAL DAMAGES OR COMPENSATION FROM OTHER SOURCES IN THE USUAL WAY.
HOWEVER, THOSE WHO RECEIVE OTHER DAMAGES OR COMPENSATION IN RESPECT OF THE ACCIDENT ARE REQUIRED TO REPAY THE AMOUNT OF ASSISTANCE ALREADY RECEIVED FROM THE SCHEME, BUT IN ANY CASE THE AMOUNT TO BE REPAID WOULD NOT EXCEED THE AMOUNT OF DAMAGES OR COMPENSATION AWARDED.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT MAKING APPLICATIONS FOR ASSISTANCE UNDER THE SCHEME MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE DEPARTMENT’S TAVA SECTION AT 15 WATSON ROAD, VICTORIA CENTRE, FIRST FLOOR, CAUSEWAY BAY, HONG KONG, OR BY TELEPHONING 5-702410.
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WATER CUT ON LAMMA * ♦ t *
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES ON LAMMA ISLAND WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 10 AM TO 4 PM TOMORROW (FRIDAY) TO FACILITATE WATERWORKS AT TAI YUEN VILLAGE, YUNG SHUE WAN.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL PREMISES AT YUNG SHUE WAN, SHA PO, KO LONG, WANG LONG, TAI WAN SAN TSUEN, TAI WAN KAU TSUEN, TAI YUEN VILLAGE, YUNG SHUE LONG, TAI PING, PAK KOK KAU TSUEN, PAK KOK SAN TSUEN, SHEK LI, SHEK LI KA NAM, NGA KAU WAN, O TSAI AND PO WAH YUEN .
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