DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY. AUGUST 2, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LOCALISATION PROGRESSES SATISFACTORILY: COMMISSION CHAIRMAN . 1
AG ON CHINA LIGHT AND POWER EXPLOSION ........................ 2
LAND REGISTRAR PLEDGES EFFICIENT AND COURTEOUS SERVICE ....... 2
AFD ANNOUNCES PERFORMANCE PLEDGE ............................. 4
REVISED FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS AND HEAVIER SENTENCE UNDER IMPORT AND EXPORT ORDINANCE .................................... 5
RETAIL SALES FIGURES FOR MAY ................................. 7
SAI KUNG ELECTION FORUM ...................................... 10
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ......................................... 10
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 11
MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
1
LOCALISATION PROGRESSES SATISFACTORILY:
*****
COMMISSION CHAIRMAN
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION HAS EXPRESSED CONCERN THAT THE EFFECT OF THE RECENT ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE GOVERNMENT, RELATING TO OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS WHO ARE PERMANENT RESIDENTS HENCEFORTH BEING ABLE TO APPLY FOR LOCAL TERMS OF SERVICE, IS BEING EXAGGERATED IN SOME QUARTERS.
"I DO NOT BELIEVE THAT, OVERALL, THIS WILL HAVE A VERY SIGNIFICANT IMPACT," THE CHAIRMAN, MR AUGUSTINE K CHUI, SAID.
"THERE ARE ALTOGETHER 1,260 DIRECTORATE OFFICERS IN THE GOVERNMENT. OF THESE, ONLY 174 (14%) ARE ON OVERSEAS AGREEMENT TERMS.
"IT REMAINS TO BE SEEN HOW MANY OF THE LATTER WILL APPLY TO TRANSFER TO LOCAL TERMS. PROBABLY AT THE END OF THE DAY NOT VERY MANY WILL ACTUALLY TRANSFER, FOR VARIOUS REASONS. NOT ALL WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO BECOME PERMANENT RESIDENTS IN ANY CASE."
MR CHUI ALSO SAID IN HIS VIEW LOCALISATION WAS PROGRESSING SATISFACTORILY ON THE WHOLE. OF 106 PROMOTIONS TO DIRECTORATE RANKS PROCESSED BY THE COMMISSION IN 1992/93, 74 (70%) WERE IN RESPECT OF LOCAL OFFICERS. MR CHUI STRESSED THAT PROMOTIONS ARE DECIDED SOLELY ON MERIT.
IN ADDITION, OF A TOTAL OF 11,322 NEW RECRUITS TO THE GOVERNMENT SERVICE IN 1992/93, ONLY 85 (LESS THAN 1%) WERE ON OVERSEAS TERMS. OVERSEAS RECRUITMENT HAS BEEN DECLINING AS THE SUPPLY OF QUALIFIED LOCAL CANDIDATES HAS IMPROVED OVER THE YEARS.
"FURTHERMORE, IT IS READILY APPARENT THAT LOCAL OFFICERS ARE INCREASINGLY FILLING THE SENIOR POSITIONS AT HEAD OF DEPARTMENT LEVEL OR ABOVE. THE LOCALISATION POLICY WILL CONTINUE TO MAKE GOOD PROGRESS," HE SAID.
UNDER CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS, THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION MUST BE CONSULTED BEFORE ANY CANDIDATE FOR EMPLOYMENT IS OFFERED OVERSEAS TERMS OF SERVICE.
"I AM PLEASED TO NOTE THAT, UNDER CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS, THE STATUS OF CANDIDATES FOR EMPLOYMENT (THAT IS, WHETHER THE PERSON IS TO BE APPOINTED ON LOCAL OR OVERSEAS TERMS) IS NOT AND NEVER HAS BEEN DECIDED ON GROUNDS OF RACE.
"THUS, FOR EXAMPLE, WE HAVE QUITE A FEW ETHNICALLY CHINESE OFFICERS ON OVERSEAS TERMS OF SERVICE, AND A SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF NON-CHINESE OFFICERS ON LOCAL TERMS OF SERVICE."
"I BELIEVE THAT IT IS ONLY RIGHT THAT PEOPLE WHO ARE PREPARED TO MAKE A COMMITMENT TO SERVE HONG KONG BY BECOMING PERMANENT RESIDENTS SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO APPLY TO TRANSFER TO LOCAL TERMS, REGARDLESS OF RACE. THIS IS IN FACT IN LINE WITH THE PRINCIPLI UNDERLYING THE POLICY ALL ALONG AND I AM PLEASED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAS TAKEN THIS ACTION."
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MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
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AG ON CHINA LIGHT AND POWER EXPLOSION *****
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL IS NOW UNDER PROCESS TO FIND OUT WHAT THE FACTS ARE CONCERNING CERTAIN ALLEGATIONS MADE ON THE INQUEST INTO THE GAS EXPLOSION AT THE CASTLE PEAK POWER PLANT LAST AUGUST.
THE MATTER IS NOW UNDER SERIOUS REVIEW BUT IT IS PREMATURE TO DECIDE AT THIS POINT OF TIME WHETHER THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SHOULD EXERCISE HIS POWER UNDER SECTION 20 OF THE CORONERS ORDINANCE TO DIRECT FURTHER INVESTIGATION AND TO REQUIRE THE CORONER TO REOPEN THE INQUIRY.
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LAND REGISTRAR PLEDGES EFFICIENT AND COURTEOUS SERVICE ♦ * * * »
THE LAND REGISTRAR, MR KENNETH PANG, TODAY (MONDAY) PLEDGED TO PROVIDE AN EFFICIENT, COURTEOUS AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE TO THE PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTORS WHEN HE LAUNCHED HIS DEPARTMENT'S PERFORMANCE PLEDGES SCHEME.
OUTLINING THE LAND REGISTRY’S SERVICES AND PERFORMANCE PLEDGES AT A NEWS CONFERENCE, HE STRESSED: ”MY STAFF ARE COMMITTED TO DELIVERING THE SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC WITHIN THE TARGET STANDARDS SET OUT IN THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGES.”
”IF THESE STANDARDS ARE NOT ACHIEVED, THE CUSTOMERS HAVE THE RIGHT TO A FULL AND PROMPT EXPLANATION.”
THE MAIN SERVICES PROVIDED AT ITS URBAN REGISTRY AT QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES ON HONG KONG ISLAND AND EIGHT DISTRICT REGISTRIES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES ARE:
* REGISTRATION OF DOCUMENTS RELATED TO LAND UNDER THE LAND REGISTRATION ORDINANCE;
* PROVISION OF FACILITIES FOR SEARCH OF THE LAND REGISTER AND RELATED RECORDS BY THE PUBLIC AND GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS; AND
* REGISTRATION OF OWNERS CORPORATIONS IN MULTI-STOREY BUILDINGS UNDER THE BUILDING MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE.
MR PANG SAID FOR THE 12-MONTH PERIOD COVERING JULY 1992 TO JUNE 1993, THE LAND REGISTRY RECEIVED OVER 628,000 LAND DOCUMENTS SUBMITTED FOR REGISTRATION AND HANDLED OVER 3,800,000 PUBLIC SEARCHES OF LAND RECORDS, REPRESENTING A WORK-FLOW OF 2,300 DEEDS REGISTRATION AND 14,000 LAND SEARCHES IN EACH WORKING DAY.
/AS REGARDS .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
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AS REGARDS REGISTRATION OF OWNERS CORPORATIONS, 256 APPLICATIONS FOR FORMATION OF OWNERS CORPORATIONS WERE PROCESSED DURING THE SAME PERIOD, HE SAID.
"WE PLEDGE TO COMPLETE THE REGISTRATION OF A LAND DOCUMENT WITHIN FIVE WEEKS. FOR PUBLIC SEARCH OF LAND RECORDS, A COMPUTER PRINTOUT OF THE LAND REGISTER CAN BE SUPPLIED WITHIN 30 MINUTES; SIMILARLY, DIAZO COPIES OF MICROFILMED RECORDS OR PHOTOCOPIES OF LAND DOCUMENTS CAN BE PROVIDED WITHIN 30 MINUTES.
"THE TIME TAKEN IN DELIVERING SERVICES DEPENDS ON THE TYPE OF SERVICE REQUESTED, THE TIME OF DAY AND LOCATION OF THE REGISTRY VISITED. THE SERVICE TIME MAY VARY AMONG DIFFERENT REGISTRIES ACCORDING TO DEMAND AND THE WAITING TIME IS NORMALLY LONGER DURING PEAK HOURS AND AT PEAK PERIODS," MR PANG NOTED.
AS REGARDS THE REGISTRATION OF OWNERS CORPORATIONS, THE PROCESSING TIME RANGES FROM ONE TO THREE MONTHS DEPENDING ON THE COMPLEXITY OF EACH CASE, HE ADDED.
THE LAND REGISTRY’S PERFORMANCE PLEDGES ARE SET OUT IN AN INFORMATION PAMPHLET PUBLISHED TODAY. COPIES ARE AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AT ANY OF THE LAND REGISTRY OFFICES AND THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION DISTRICT OFFICES.
THE LAND REGISTRY’S PERFORMANCE WILL BE CLOSELY MONITORED BY AN IN-HOUSE PERFORMANCE MONITORING COMMITTEE AND BY CUSTOMERS LIAISON GROUPS COMPRISING CUSTOMER REPRESENTATIVES.
MR PANG SAID HE WOULD WELCOME ANY COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS FROM CUSTOMERS WHO CAN CONTACT THE CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER ON TEL 867 2882.
"WE ARE COMMITTED TO DOING OUR BEST TO MEET PERFORMANCE STANDARDS AND TO FURTHER IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF SERVICE," HE STRESSED.
MR PANG ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE LAUNCHING OF THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGES COINCIDED WITH THE COMMENCEMENT OF OPERATION OF THE LAND REGISTRY TRADING FUND WITH EFFECT FROM AUGUST 1.
THE LAND REGISTRY IS ONE OF THE FIRST GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS TO OPERATE ITS BUSINESS ON A SELF-FINANCING BASIS, WITH STRONG EMPHASIS ON MEETING PERFORMANCE TARGETS AND FINANCIAL OBJECTIVES.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
AFD ANNOUNCES PERFORMANCE PLEDGE * * * * *
THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT (AFD) TODAY (MONDAY) ANNOUNCED ITS PERFORMANCE PLEDGE FOR THE DEPARTMENT’S VARIOUS SERVICES.
AN AFD SPOKESMAN SAID FROM NOW ON, A NUMBER OF PUBLIC SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE DEPARTMENT, INCLUDING ITS LICENSING AND CERTIFICATION PROCEDURES, WOULD BE STRENGTHENED.
THESE SERVICES ARE RELATED TO A WIDE RANGE OF WORK WHICH COVER AMONG OTHER THINGS, LIVESTOCK, FISH, PESTICIDES AND PLANTS, HE SAID.
AMONG ITEMS OF FASTER SERVICES THE DEPARTMENT AIMS TO ACHIEVE INCLUDE: A 15-MINUTE WAITING TIME FOR THE ENDORSEMENT OF PESTICIDES IMPORT/EXPORT LICENCES AND THE GRANTING OF PERMISSION TO REMOVE CATTLE, PIGS OR GOATS FROM ABATTOIRS, SLAUGHTERHOUSES FOR SLAUGHTER, BOTH FOR APPLICATIONS MADE IN PERSON.
THE DEPARTMENT HAS ALSO SET THE TARGET TURN-AROUND TIME TO 30 MINUTES FOR THE ISSUE OF A MARINE FISH TRANSPORTATION PERMIT FOR AN APPLICATION MADE IN PERSON, HE SAID.
THE TIME ALLOWED FOR THE RENEWAL OF A MARINE FISH CULTURE LICENCE HAS ALSO BEEN SET AT ONE HOUR PROVIDED THAT THE APPLICATION IS MADE BY THE APPLICANT HIMSELF.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE DEPARTMENT WAS AIMING AT A TARGET OF ’’ONE WORKING DAY” FOR THE ENDORSEMENT OF AN ANIMAL HEALTH CERTIFICATE.
OTHER DEPARTMENTAL SERVICES WHICH ARE TARGETTED TO HAVE THEIR PROCESSING TIME SHORTENED TO ’’TWO WORKING DAYS” INCLUDE: APPLICATION FOR A QUARANTINE PERMIT TO IMPORT DOGS AND CATS; APPLICATION FOR A PAK TAM CHUNG BARRIER PERMIT AND THE RENEWAL OF A MARINE FISH TRANSPORTATION PERMIT AND SO ON.
THE DEPARTMENT PROVIDES A TOTAL OF MORE THAN 30 ITEMS OF SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC.
SOME APPLICATIONS MAY NEED LONGER TIME TO PROCESS SINCE INSPECTION AND VERIFICATION ARE REQUIRED TO ENSURE THAT THE NESCESSARY STANDARDS HAVE BEEN REACHED.
ANY PERSON WHO WANTS TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE AFD SERVICES, AVAILABLE AT ITS HEADQUARTERS AT THE CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 393 CANTON ROAD, KOWLOON, CAN CONTACT THE DEPARTMENT’S ENQUIRY COUNTER BY TEL 733 2235.
ANY COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS ON THE WAY IN WHICH THESE SERVICES ARE HANDLED WOULD ALSO BE WELCOME, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"IN OCCASIONAL CASES WHEN, DESPITE EFFORTS MADE BY THE DEPARTMENT, THE SERVICES ARE UNABLE TO MATCH THE STANDARDS SET, THE PUBLIC ARE ENTITLED TO A FULL AND PROMPT EXPLANATION," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
/HE STRESSED .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
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HE STRESSED THAT AFD IS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING AN EFFICIENT, COURTEOUS AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE IN A CLEAN, ORDERLY AND FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT.
TO HELP EFFECTIVELY MONITOR THE PERFORMANCES COVERED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S PLEDGE, IT HAS GOT THE SUPPORT OF THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES, COUNTRY PARKS BOARD AND ENDANGERED SPECIES ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO CARRY OUT THE ASSESSMENT.
THESE COMMITTEES WILL BE SERVICED BY A SERVICES STANDARDS COMMITTEE HEADED BY A DIRECTORATE OFFICER IN THE DEPARTMENT.
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES WILL PUBLISH ANNUALLY PERFORMANCE RESULTS AGAINST TARGETS, HE ADDED.
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REVISED FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS AND HEAVIER SENTENCE UNDER IMPORT AND EXPORT ORDINANCE *****
THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE 1993 AND THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (STRATEGIC COMMODITIES) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993, WHICH REVISE FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS AND IMPOSE HEAVIER SENTENCE FOR ILLEGAL TRADE IN MILITARY GOODS, WILL COME INTO EFFECT THIS FRIDAY (AUGUST 6).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT SAID THERE WERE TWO PURPOSES OF THESE AMENDMENTS.
THEY WERE TO REMOVE OPERATIONAL DIFFICULTIES FACING THE COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS AND EXCISE IN ENFORCING PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE FORFEITURE OF SEIZED GOODS; AND TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM PENALTIES FOR OFFENCES RELATED TO THE IMPORT AND EXPORT OF STRATEGIC COMMODITIES.
"THE IMPORT AND EXPORT (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE 1993 SEEKS TO STREAMLINE EXISTING FORFEITURE PROCEDURES. THIS WILL SAVE STAFF TIME AND STORAGE SPACE WITHOUT COMPROMISING THE FAIRNESS OF THE SYSTEM TO THE PUBLIC," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE REVISED PROCEDURE IS SIMILAR TO THAT INTRODUCED BY THE RECENTLY COMMENCED DUTIABLE COMMODITIES (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) ORDINANCE 1993.
IT PROVIDES THAT NO NOTICE OF SEIZURE WILL BE GIVEN IF THE GOODS ARE SEIZED IN THE PRESENCE OF THE SUSPECTED OFFENDER, THEIR OWNER OR THE OWNER’S EMPLOYEE OR AGENT, OR AN OWNER WHO DOES NOT HAVE A PERMANENT ADDRESS IN HONG KONG.
IF A NOTICE OF SEIZURE IS REQUIRED BUT IT CANNOT BE DELIVERED TO THE OWNER, THE NOTICE WILL BE EXHIBITED AT THE PUBLIC WAITING HALL OF CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT’S PERMIT OFFICE ON THE FIRST FLOOR OF HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL WITHIN 30 DAYS AFTER THE SEIZURE FOR A PERIOD OF SEVEN DAYS.
/THE AMENDED .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
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THE AMENDED ORDINANCE ALSO SPECIFIES THE MANNER OF CLAIM, AND APPLICATION FOR AND CONDUCT OF FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS. A CLAIMANT SHOULD SUPPLY HIS OR HIS SOLICITOR’S FULL NAME AND ADDRESS IN HONG KONG WHEN HE GIVES A NOTICE OF CLAIM TO THE COMMISSIONER.
WHERE THE SEIZED GOODS ARE OF A PERISHABLE NATURE, THE COMMISSIONER IS EMPOWERED TO ORDER THE GOODS TO BE SOLD OR DESTROYED.
IF THE GOODS ARE DIFFICULT TO STORE OR LIKELY TO DETERIORATE BEFORE THE CONCLUSION OF THE FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS, THE COMMISSIONER MAY APPLY TO A MAGISTRATE FOR THE GOODS TO BE SOLD. THE PROCEEDS OF SALE WILL BE RETAINED BY THE COMMISSIONER.
IN EITHER CASE, THE COMMISSIONER MAY RELEASE THE GOODS TO THE OWNER OR A PERSON ENTITLED TO MAKE A CLAIM UPON PAYMENT TO THE COMMISSIONER OF A SECURITY NOT LESS THAN THE VALUE OF SUCH GOODS.
A MAGISTRATE WILL ORDER THE DISPOSAL OF SUCH PROCEEDS OF SALE OR SECURITY RETAINED BY THE COMMISSIONER UPON COMPLETION OF THE FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS.
AN OWNER OF A SEIZED VESSEL OR VEHICLE MAY ALSO APPLY TO A MAGISTRATE FOR THE TEMPORARY RELEASE OF THE SEIZED VESSEL OR VEHICLE BEFORE THE FORFEITURE HEARING.
HOWEVER, HE WILL BE REQUIRED TO PROVIDE A SECURITY PAYMENT NOT LESS THAN THE VALUE OF THE VESSEL OR VEHICLE AND TO PAY THE COST FOR ASSESSING THE VALUE OF THE VESSEL OR VEHICLE AS ORDERED BY THE MAGISTRATE.
A CLAIMANT MAY PETITION THE GOVERNOR AGAINST THE DECISION OF THE COURT BY GIVING A NOTICE IN WRITING TO THE COMMISSIONER WITHIN SIX WEEKS OF THE DECISION AND THEREAFTER LODGES THE PETITION WITH THE CHIEF SECRETARY WITHIN 30 DAYS.
IF THE GOODS WERE SEIZED BEFORE THIS FRIDAY (AUGUST 6) AND THE COMMISSIONER CANNOT DISPOSE OF SUCH GOODS UNDER THE EXISTING PROCEDURE, HE WILL PUBLISH IN THE GAZETTE ON A DATE TO BE NOTIFIED INVITING ANY PERSON WHO WISHES TO MAKE A CLAIM TO THE GOODS TO GIVE NOTICE OF CLAIM TO HIM.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THE AMENDMENTS ALSO SOUGHT TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM PENALTIES FOR OFFENCES RELATED TO STRATEGIC COMMODITIES SO AS TO PROVIDE AN ADEQUATE DETERRENT AGAINST ILLEGAL TRADE IN WEAPONS AND GOODS WITH MILITARY APPLICATIONS.
IF CONVICTED ON INDICTMENT, THE MAXIMUM PENALTY OF SUCH OFFENCES IS SEVEN YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT AND AN UNLIMITED FINE, WHICH IN LINE WITH THE PENALTIES IN OTHER PLACES WHERE EXERCISE SIMILAR STRATEGIC COMMODITIES CONTROLS.
THE MAXIMUM PENALTIES FOR OFFENCES ON SUMMARY CONVICTION WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED, THAT IS TWO YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT AND A FINE OF $500,000.
PEOPLE HAVING QUERIES ON THE NEW FORFEITURE PROCEDURE CAN CONTACT SENIOR STAFF OFFICER, MR MICHAEL LEE ON TEL 852 3303. THOSE HAVING QUESTIONS RELATED TO STRATEGIC COMMODITIES CAN CALL THE HEAD OF TRADE CONTROLS MR Y Y LEUNG ON TEL 852 3392.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
7
RETAIL SALES FIGURES FOR MAY
*****
THE VALUE OF TOTAL RETAIL SALES IN MAY, ESTIMATED AT $15 BILLION, INCREASED 19% WHEN COMPARED WITH THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR, ACCORDING TO THE STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
AFTER DISCOUNTING THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES OVER THE SAME PERIOD, TOTAL RETAIL SALES ROSE BY 13% IN VOLUME TERMS.
THE INCREASE WAS MAINLY ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE GROWTH IN SPENDING ON CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR, JEWELLERY AND WATCHES, AND CONSUMER DURABLE GOODS OTHER THAN MOTOR VEHICLES, AS WELL AS SALES OF DEPARTMENT STORES.
SALES OF CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR REGISTERED THE LARGEST INCREASE IN MAY 1993 COMPARED WITH A YEAR AGO, 46% IN VALUE AND 34% IN VOLUME.
SALES OF JEWELLERY AND WATCHES WENT UP BY 32% IN VALUE AND 30% IN VOLUME, WHILE SALES OF CONSUMER DURABLE GOODS OTHER THAN MOTOR VEHICLES INCREASED 23% IN VALUE AND 22% IN VOLUME.
SALES OF DEPARTMENT STORES ALSO ROSE CONSIDERABLY BY 19% IN VALUE AND 11% IN VOLUME.
MODERATE GROWTH WAS RECORDED FOR SALES OF SUPERMARKETS, 10% IN VALUE AND 3% IN VOLUME.
ON THE OTHER HAND, SALES OF FUELS DROPPED BY 5% IN VOLUME, DESPITE AN INCREASE OF 2% IN VALUE. SALES OF FOODSTUFFS REGISTERED A DECREASE OF 1% IN VALUE AND 6% IN VOLUME WHILE SALES OF MOTOR VEHICLES DECREASED 11% IN VALUE AND 17% IN VOLUME.
COMPARING THE PERIOD JANUARY TO MAY 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, TOTAL RETAIL SALES ROSE BY 13% IN VALUE AND 9% IN VOLUME.
COMPARED WITH APRIL 1993, AND BEARING IN MIND THAT THIS COMPARISON MAY BE AFFECTED BY SEASONAL FACTORS, TOTAL RETAIL SALES IN MAY 1993 INCREASED 13% IN VALUE AND 11% IN VOLUME.
THE VOLUME OF RETAIL SALES IS DERIVED FROM THE VALUE OF RETAIL SALES AFTER ADJUSTING FOR PRICE CHANGES. THE RELEVANT COMPONENTS OF THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX ARE USED AS DEFLATORS.
THE REPORT CONTAINING THE ANALYSIS OF THE MAY 1993 RESULTS IS NOW ON SALE AT $2 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL; AND THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, WAN CHAI.
/ENQUIRIES ABOUT .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
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ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 802 1258.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
TABLE 1 PRESENTS THE REVISED TOTAL RETAIL SALES FIGURE FOR APRIL 1993 AND THE PROVISIONAL FIGURE FOR MAY 1993.
TABLE 2 SHOWS THE VALUE AND VOLUME INDICES OF RETAIL SALES IN APRIL AND MAY 1993 FOR ALL RETAIL OUTLETS AND BY TYPE OF RETAIL OUTLET, WITH AVERAGE RETAIL SALES FROM OCTOBER 1989 TO SEPTEMBER 1990 TAKEN AS 100.
COMPARISONS OF THE MAY 1993 RESULTS WITH THOSE FOR APRIL 1993 AND WITH THOSE FOR MAY 1992, AS WELL AS COMPARISONS OF RETAIL SALES IN THE PERIOD JANUARY TO MAY OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992 ARE ALSO GIVEN.
/TABLE 1 : .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
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TABLE 1 : TOTAL RETAIL SALES
Total Retail Sales for MAY 1993 (Provisional Figure) = HK$14,978.6 million
for April 1993 (Revised Figure) = HK$13,265.4 million
TABLE 2 VALUE AND VOLUME INDICES OF RETAIL SALES FOR APRIL 1993 AND MAY 1993
(Monthly average of Oct. 89 - Sept. 90 = 100)
Item Index of Retai I Sales Apri I 1993 May 1993 May compact April 1993 id with 1993 May compart May 1993 »d with 1992 Jan-May cociparec Jan-May 1993 with 1992
(Revised figures) (Provisional figures) Points X Points X Points X
(A) FOR ALL RETAIL OUTLETS
Value 141.3 159.5 +18.2 ♦ 12.9 ♦25.1 +18.6 ♦17.1 ♦ 12.9
Volume 119.8 133.1 ♦13.2 +11.0 ♦ 15.6 +13.2 ♦ 10.2 ♦8.7
(B) BY TYPE OF RETAIL OUTLET
Foodstuffs, alcoholic Value 120.7 117.2 -3.5 -2.9 -0.9 -0.8 ♦4.7 ♦4.0
drinks and tobacco Volume 98.3 94.3 -4.0 -4.0 -6.2 -6.1 +0.3 ♦0.3
(other than supermarkets)
Supermarkets 0 Value 128.5 139.4 ♦10.9 ♦8.5 +12.6 ♦10.0 ♦ 10.7 ♦8.6
Volume 99.2 107.4 ♦8.2 ♦8.3 +3.4 +3.3 ♦1.7 ♦1.6
Fuels Value 133.3 144.0 ♦10.6 ♦8.0 +2.6 +1.8 +7.5 +6.0
Volume 98.2 105.0 ♦6.8 ♦7.0 -4.9 -4.5 ♦0.9 ♦0.9
Clothing, footwear and Value 168.1 218.9 ♦50.9 +30.3 ♦68.6 +45.6 ♦46.2 ♦32.5
allied products Vo lune 128.7 162.8 ♦34.1 +26.5 ♦41.1 ♦33.7 ♦27.1 ♦22.1
Consumer durable goods * Value 161.0 174.5 ♦13.5 ♦8.4 ♦12.1 ♦7.4 + 16.1 +10.7
Volline 142.1 153.1 ♦11.0 ♦7.7 ♦6.9 +4.7 ♦ 10.6 ♦7.8
- Motor vehicles Value 135.2 159.9 +24.7 ♦18.3 -19.0 -10.6 -5.5 -3.0
and parts Volume 106.6 124.9 ♦18.3 ♦ 17.2 -26.3 -17.4 -14.3 -9.2
- Consumer durable Value 179.7 185.0 ♦5.4 ♦3.0 +34.6 ♦23.0 ♦31.8 ♦24.6
goods other than Volume 167.8 173.4 ♦5.6 ♦3.4 +31.0 ♦21.8 ♦28.7 ♦23.3
motor vehicles and parts
Department stores Value 117.5 143.7 ♦26.2 +22.3 ♦23.2 +19.2 +14.2 ♦ 11.4
Volume 93.0 110.6 ♦ 17.6 ♦ 18.9 +10.5 ♦10.5 +4.3 +3.9
Jewellery, watches Value 141.4 169.6 ♦28.2 ♦19.9 ♦41.0 +31.9 ♦19.7 ♦15.3
and clocks, and Volume 147.9 171.8 ♦23.9 +16.1 ♦39.9 ♦30.3 ♦24.5 +18.7
valuable gifts
Other consumer goods Value 150.1 157.0 ♦6.9 ♦4.6 ♦33.6 +27.3 ♦14.6 ♦10.9
not elsewhere Volume 124.1 129.0 ♦4.9 ♦3.9 ♦22.2 ♦20.8 ♦5.5 ♦4.6
classified
NOTES : 0 Not including supermarkets operating in department stores.
* This covers both "Motor vehicles and parts" and "Consumer durable goods other than motor vehicles and parts".
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MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
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SAI KUNG ELECTION EORUM
*****
RESIDENTS OF SAI KUNG ARE INVITED TO ATTEND A FORUM TOMORROW (TUESDAY) GIVEN BY THE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR THE REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN SAI KUNG CONSTITUENCY.
THE EVENT WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM IN KING LAM NEIGHBOURHOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE IN KING LAM ESTATE, TSUENG KWAN 0.
THEY WILL ELABORATE ON THEIR ELECTION PLATFORMS AND ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE.
SEVEN PEOPLE HAVE REGISTERED TO CONTEST A SEAT. THE BY-ELECTION WILL BE HELD FROM 7.30 AM TO 10.30 PM ON AUGUST 8 (SUNDAY).
THE CANDIDATES ARE MR FRANCIS CHAU, MR CHEUNG HON-TIN, MR LAM WING-YIN, DR LAW CHEUNG-KWOK, MR WAI HING-CHEUNG, MR WONG SHUI-SANG, AND MR WONG WAH-KEUNG.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE ELECTION FORUM WHICH WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM IN THE KING LAM NEIGHBOURHOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE IN KING LAM ESTATE, TSEUNG KWAN 0.
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WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * * *
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 75.1 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 439.856 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 504.821 MILLION
CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 86.1 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
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/Il .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 1993
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS * » * » *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,760
REVERSAL OF LAF + 240
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -20
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,980
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.5 »+0.0» 2.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.34 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.56 3.86
1 MONTH 2.63 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.74 4.07
3 MONTHS 3.09 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.71 4.31
6 MONTHS 3.39 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.71 4.56
12 MONTHS 3.79 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 29,870 MN
CLOSED 2 AUGUST 1993
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Received by PRO
0D—^UllO93
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, AUGUST 3, 1993
contents page no.
S5 BILLION IMPROVEMENT FOR VICTORIA HARBOUR 1
STATEMENT RY AG ON CIP FXPIOSTON DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE (MONETARY) OF HKMA APPOINTED 2
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES SOUGHT 3
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS 3
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONFY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 4
TUESDAY, AUGUST 3, 1993
1
$5 BILLION IMPROVEMENT EOR VICTORIA HARBOUR *****
THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT WILL SPEND $5 BILLION TO IMPROVE THE WATER QUALITY IN VICTORIA HARBOUR UNDER STAGE I OF THE STRATEGIC SEWAGE DISPOSAL SCHEME.
FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF THE SEWAGE STRATEGY STUDY IN LATE 1989, THE DEPARTMENT COMMISSIONED THE ’’STRATEGIC SEWAGE DISPOSAL SCHEME SITE INVESTIGATION AND ENGINEERING STUDIES” WHICH ESTABLISHED IN DETAIL THE ENGINEERING FEASIBILITY OF THE RECOMMENDED SEWAGE STRATEGY.
THE STRATEGIC SEWAGE DISPOSAL SCHEME TOOK ANOTHER MAJOR STEP FORWARD THIS (TUESDAY) AFTERNOON WITH THE ENGAGEMENT OF THE CONSULTANCY FIRM, MONTGOMERY WATSON HONG KONG LIMITED, BY THE DEPARTMENT TO UNDERTAKE THE DETAILED DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISION OF THE FIRST STAGE OF THE SCHEME.
STAGE I WORKS, WHICH COSTS $5 BILLION, COMPRISES THE PROVISION OF A DEEP TUNNEL SYSTEM TO COLLECT AND CONVEY SEWAGE FROM TSEUNG KWAN O, CHAI WAN, SHAU KEI WAN AND THE AREAS BETWEEN TSUEN WAN AND KWUN TONG, TO STONECUTTERS ISLAND; A CHEMICALLY-ASSISTED PRIMARY SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS AND A SUBMARINE SEWAGE OUTFALL, BOTH ON STONECUTTERS ISLAND.
THE CONSTRUCTION WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START NEXT YEAR FOR COMPLETION IN 1997.
ON COMPLETION, POLLUTION LOADS ENTERING VICTORIA HARBOUR WILL BE SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED AND THE WATER QUALITY IN THE HARBOUR IMPROVED.
THE CONSULTANCY AGREEMENT FOR THE STAGE I WORKS WAS SIGNED BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT’S ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (PROJECTS AND DEVELOPMENT), MR TSE HON-SUM AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF MONTGOMERY WATSON HONG KONG LIMITED.
_ _ 0----------
STATEMENT BY AG ON CLP EXPLOSION
*****
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL (AG) CONFIRMS THAT HE HAS RECEIVED THE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM CORONER MR WARNER BANKS AS TO WHETHER AN INQUEST INTO THE GAS EXPLOSION AT THE CASTLE PEAK POWER PLANT LAST AUGUST SHOULD BE REOPENED.
THE AG SAID HE ATTACHED CONSIDERABLE WEIGHT TO MR BANKS’ RECOMMENDATIONS AND WOULD CONSIDER THEM WITH EXTREME CARE.
/"THE MATTER .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 3, 1993
2
"THE MATTER HAS TOP PRIORITY AND IS BEING VERY CAREFULLY CONSIDERED.
"HOWEVER, AT THIS STAGE, I STILL HAVE YET TO DECIDE WHETHER I SHOULD EXERCISE MY POWER UNDER SECTION 20 OF THE CORONERS ORDINANCE TO DIRECT FURTHER INVESTIGATION AND TO REQUIRE THE CORONER TO REOPEN THE INQUIRY," HE SAID.
------0----------
DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE (MONETARY) OF HKMA APPOINTED *******
THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY HAD APPOINTED MR ANDREW SHENG AS DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE (MONETARY) OF THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY.
THE APPOINTMENT WILL TAKE EFFECT FROM OCTOBER 1.
MR SHENG IS CURRENTLY SENIOR MANAGER, FINANCIAL MARKETS AND PAYMENT SYSTEMS, FINANCIAL SECTOR DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT THE WORLD BANK.
HE HAS BEEN WITH THE WORLD BANK FOR FOUR YEARS SINCE 1989, AFTER A 13-YEAR CAREER AT THE BANK NEGARA MALAYSIA.
IN HIS PAST FOUR YEARS AT THE WORLD BANK, MR SHENG HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN GIVING ADVICE ON FINANCIAL SECTOR REFORMS IN A NUMBER OF DEVELOPING COUNTRIES INCLUDING CHINA.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SAID MR SHENG OBVIOUSLY HAD MUCH EXPERIENCE IN CENTRAL BANKING AND VERY GOOD INTERNATIONAL EXPOSURE ON FINANCIAL AND MONETARY MATTERS.
HIS APPOINTMENT WILL BE QUITE A BOOST TO THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY, THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY ADDED.
MR SHENG IS PASSING THROUGH HONG KONG ON HIS WAY TO CHINA ON A WORLD BANK ASSIGNMENT. HE WILL BE SPENDING A FEW DAYS IN THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY.
MR SHENG IS A MALAYSIAN CHINESE. HE IS 47 AND MARRIED TO DR LIM SUAN POH. HE RECEIVED HIS FIRST CLASS HONOURS DEGREE IN ECONOMICS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL, ENGLAND, IN 1969 AND A FELLOWSHIP AT THE INSTITUTE OF CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS, ENGLAND AND WALES, IN 1982.
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 3, 1993
- 3 -
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES SOUGHT
* * » * *
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE TWO UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES ERECTED ON A BUILDING AT 66-68 NAM CHEONG STREET IN SHAM SHUI PO, SO THAT THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND THE PUBLIC.
THE SINGLE-STOREY STRUCTURES ERECTED ON THE COMMON AREA OF A COCKLOFT ARE USED FOR DWELLING PURPOSES.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE ON OCTOBER 5 WAS POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY (TUESDAY).
DEMOLITION IS EXPECTED TO START AS SOON AS THE CLOSURE ORDER IS ISSUED.
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS ♦ ♦ t * ♦
TENDER DATE 3 AUGUST 93 3 AUGUST 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q331 H370
AMOUNT APPLIED HKD3,679 MN HKD2,330 MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HKD1,000 MN HKD400 MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 3.10 PCT 3.40 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 3.12 PCT 3.41 PCT
PRO RATA RATIO ABOUT 16 PCT ABOUT 82 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 3.13 PCT 3.44 PCT
/HONG KONG .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 3, 1993
4
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 9 AUGUST 1993 -
TENDER DATE 10 AUGUST 93 10 AUGUST 93
PAPER ON OFFER ISSUE NUMBER ISSUE DATE EF BILLS Q332 11 AUGUST 93 EF BILLS Y392 11 AUGUST 93
MATURITY DATE 10 NOVEMBER 93 10 AUGUST 94
TENOR AMOUNT ON OFFER 91 DAYS HKD1,000 + 200 MN 364 DAYS HKD300 + 90 MN
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
* ♦ *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI
1,980
+ 20
2,000
NIL
-240
1,760
112.3 t-0.2* 3.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.30 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.60 3.82
1 MONTH 2.60 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.80 4.02
3 MONTHS 3.09 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.79 4.26
6 MONTHS 3.38 PCT 22 MONTHS 12 MONTHS 3.77 PCT 2505 3.75 98.79 4.51
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 14,120 MN
CLOSED 3 AUGUST 1993
- - 0 - -
Received by PRO
9 AUG S93
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4, 1993
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
INFLUX OF ECVIT’S A SETBACK TO SOLVE VM PROBLEM
PATIENTS TO MAKE HEALTH CARE CHOICE ..........................
PARFNTS NOT COMPULSORY TO BUY TEXTBOOKS FROM SCHOOLS
USA YEAR OF ROOSTER STAMPS ON SALE
RESPONSE TO LIAISON OFFTCFR RECRUITMENT FXFRCTSF GOOD
270 VM’S RETURNED TODAY ............................
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
5
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4, 1993
INFLUX OF ECVII’S A SETBACK TO SOLVE VM PROBLEM *****
THE ONLY WAY TO STEM THE RECENT INFLUX OF EX-CHINA VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS (ECVII’S) WAS TO RETURN THEM TO CHINA IMMEDIATELY AS EVERY DAY OF DELAY WOULD ACT AS A MAGNET FOR MORE TO FOLLOW, THE SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR ALISTAIR ASPREY, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING TO THE PRESS AFTER TOURING FACILITIES FOR ECVII’S AT CHI MA WAN DETENTION CENTRE ON LANTAU ISLAND, MR ASPREY SAID ABOUT 2,200 ECVII’S HAD ARRIVED IN HONG KONG SINCE JUNE 25 AND IT WAS THE LARGEST INFLUX SINCE 1987.
"THIS IS AN UNWELCOME SETBACK TO EFFORTS TO RESOLVE THE VIETNAMESE MIGRANT (VM) PROBLEM.
"DIRECT ARRIVALS FROM VIETNAM HAVE VIRTUALLY DRIED UP IN THE PAST TWO YEARS AND THE OVERALL VM POPULATION IN THAT TIME HAS BEEN REDUCED FROM OVER 64,000 TO SOME 39,000 TODAY," HE SAID.
MR ASPREY SAID HONG KONG’S RESOURCES WERE ONCE MORE BEING STRETCHED ESPECIALLY THE MANPOWER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT.
"IF THE PROBLEM IS RESOLVED SPEEDILY, THERE WILL BE NO SIGNIFICANT SLIPPAGE TN OUR CAMP CLOSURE PROGRAMME BUT IF THE INFLUX CONTINUES AND THE ECVII’S HERE ARE NOT RETURNED SOON, IT WILL POSE A MAJOR SETBACK TO OUR PLANS," HE SAID.
MR ASPREY SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD REPEATEDLY STRESSED TO THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES THE URGENT NEED FOR EARLY REPATRIATION, BUT HAD HAD NO SPECIFIC RESPONSE SO FAR TO THIS REQUEST.
"THE MATTER IS BEING TAKEN UP DAILY WITH THE NEW CHINA NEWS AGENCY IN HONG KONG, MINISTERS IN LONDON AND THE BRITISH AMBASSADOR TO PEKING WILL SHORTLY AGAIN ASK THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT TO ACCEPT THE RETURN OF THE ECVII’S," HE SAID.
ALSO VISITING CHI MA WAN TODAY WAS THE COMMISSIONER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, MR ERIC MCCOSH.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4, 1993
- 2 -
PATIENTS TO MAKE HEALTH CARE CHOICE
******
THE OPTIONS LISTED IN THE RECENTLY PUBLISHED CONSULTATION DOCUMENT "TOWARDS BETTER HEALTH" AIM TO GIVE GREATER CHOICE TO INDIVIDUAL PATIENTS, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
MRS WONG NOTED THAT HONG KONG’S PRESENT HEALTH CARE SYSTEM OFFERS LITTLE REAL CHOICE AS IT IS SEPARATED INTO PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS WITH LITTLE INTERFACE.
"THE PERCEPTION IS THAT YOU EITHER WAIT FOR PUBLIC SERVICE OR PAY FOR PRIVATE SERVICE,” SHE SAID.
WITHIN THE PUBLIC SECTOR, THERE IS EFFECTIVELY ONLY ONE CLASS OF HOSPITAL BEDS AVAILABLE AND EVERYBODY PAYS THE SAME FEE, WHETHER RICH OR POOR.
"THOSE PATIENTS WHO DESIRE A HIGHER STANDARD OF PUBLIC SECTOR ACCOMMODATION HAVE NO CHOICE," MRS WONG SAID AT A SYMPOSIUM ON "HEALTH CARE CHOICES FOR HONG KONG".
SHE POINTED OUT THAT THROUGH THE PROMOTION OF A CO-ORDINATED VOLUNTARY INSURANCE APPROACH, ONE OF THE OPTIONS IN THE DOCUMENT AIMS TO IMPROVE THE INTERFACE BETWEEN PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTOR SERVICE PROVIDERS TO GIVE PATIENTS GREATER ABILITY TO CHOOSE BETWEEN THE TWO.
THROUGH THE TARGET GROUP APPROACH, ANOTHER OPTION AIMS TO CREATE A NEW CLASS OF SEMI-PRIVATE ROOMS IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS TO GIVE PATIENTS A GREATER CHOICE OF ACCOMMODATION.
THROUGH THE PERCENTAGE SUBSIDY APPROACH, A THIRD OPTION AIMS TO IMPROVE TRANSPARENCY ABOUT FEES SO THAT PATIENTS WILL KNOW EXACTLY HOW MUCH THEY WILL HAVE TO PAY AND HOW COSTS HAVE BEEN DETERMINED.
"THIS WILL ENABLE THEM TO MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE ABOUT TREATMENT MODALITY," MRS WONG SAID.
SHE ADDED THAT THESE OPTIONS CAN BE IMPLEMENTED INDIVIDUALLY OR IN DIFFERENT COMBINATIONS AND HAVE BEEN DRAWN UP AFTER MUCH RESEARCH INTO HEALTH CARE SYSTEMS AND REFORMS IN OTHER COUNTRIES.
"WE HAVE TAKEN THE BEST OF THE IDEAS FROM OVERSEAS AND ADAPTED THESE TO SUIT LOCAL REQUIREMENTS AND CONDITIONS," THE SECRETARY SAID.
"BUT ULTIMATELY, WE NEED TO HAVE A SYSTEM WHICH MEETS THE COMMUNITY’S NEEDS AND WHICH THE COMMUNITY IS PREPARED TO ACCEPT," SHE SAID.
"THE CHOICE IS THEIRS," MRS WONG STRESSED.
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/3 ........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4, 1993
3 -
PARENTS NOT COMPULSORY TO BUY TEXTBOOKS EROM SCHOOLS * ♦ ♦ ♦ *
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT TODAY (WEDNESDAY) SAID STUDENTS AND PARENTS WERE NOT COMPULSORY TO BUY TEXTBOOKS, EXERCISE BOOKS, UNIFORMS AND OTHER ITEMS FROM SCHOOLS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID ALL SCHOOLS FOLLOWED A CODE OF PRACTICE ON THE SALE OF TEXTBOOKS, EXERCISE BOOKS, UNIFORMS AND OTHER SCHOOL ACCESSORIES.
ACCORDING TO THE GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF THE CODE FIRST INTRODUCED IN 1975, SCHOOLS SHOULD ENSURE THAT, SUBJECT TO SOUND EDUCATIONAL PRACTICE, THE COST OF ITEMS SHOULD BE KEPT AS LOW AS POSSIBLE.
’’SCHOOLS NORMALLY ISSUE LISTS OF BOOKS, INCLUDING TEXTBOOKS, REFERENCE BOOKS AND WORKBOOKS, TO EXISTING STUDENTS BEFORE THE END OF A TERM AND TO NEW STUDENTS OR THEIR PARENTS," HE SAID, ADDING THAT FULL DETAILS SUCH AS TITLE, EDITION, AUTHOR, PUBLISHER, AND PRICE WERE GIVEN.
THE LISTS ARE ACCOMPANIED BY A STATEMENT TO ADVISE PARENTS THAT THEY CAN BUY THE ITEMS OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL IF THEY WISH.
STUDENTS, HE SAID, WERE ALSO NOT COMPELLED TO BUY UNIFORMS FROM THE SCHOOL TAILOR.
STUDENTS CAN PLACE THEIR ORDERS ELSEWHERE, THE MATERIALS SELECTED FOR THE UNIFORM ARE USUALLY OF A TYPE, QUALITY AND COLOUR GENERALLY AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC.
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT ALL SCHOOLS KEPT PROPER ACCOUNTS WHICH REFLECTED ALL SALES.
"IF AN ARRANGEMENT HAS BEEN MADE WITH A BOOKSELLER OR OTHER SUPPLIER, AND A DISCOUNT OR A BLOCK SUM OF MONEY IS RECEIVED, THIS MUST ALSO BE ENTERED INTO THE SCHOOL ACCOUNTS AS AN ITEM OF INCOME,” HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT SCHOOLS WERE REQUIRED TO RECORD IN AN INVENTORY ANY ADVANTAGES RECEIVED FROM SUPPLIERS IN THE FORM OF GOODS OR ITEMS OF EQUIPMENT.
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/4 ........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4, 1993
4
USA YEAR OF ROOSTER STAMPS ON SALE * * * * *
THE ACTING POSTMASTER GENERAL, MRS DORIS HO, ANNOUNCED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT ARRANGEMENTS HAD BEEN MADE WITH THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE (USPS) TO SELL THEIR YEAR OF THE ROOSTER STAMPS IN HONG KONG AT THE SIX PHILATELIC OFFICES FROM AUGUST 9 TO DECEMBER 31.
THESE STAMPS ARE THE FIRST COMMEMORATIVE STAMPS EVER ISSUED BY THE USPS TO FEATURE THE LUNAR NEW YEAR.
FACE VALUE OF THE STAMP IS 29 US CENTS EACH. IT WILL BE AVAILABLE IN SHEETS OF 20 STAMPS AT HKS45.5 PER SHEET.
ALSO AVAILABLE AT THE SIX PHILATELIC OFFICES FROM THE SAME DATE IS THE OFFICIAL COLLECTOR’S BOOKLET OF THE YEAR OF THE ROOSTER STAMP.
THE BOOKLET, PRICED AT $62.5 EACH, IS A FOLDER CONTAINING INFORMATION ON THE STAMP, THE DESIGNER, AND A BLOCK OF FOUR YEAR OF THE ROOSTER STAMPS CANCELLED WITH THE FIRST-DAY-OF-ISSUE POSTMARK.
MRS HO SAID THE YEAR OF THE ROOSTER STAMPS WERE EXPECTED TO BE POPULAR WITH COLLECTORS.
THEY WILL ADD TO THE COLLECTION OF THE YEAR OF THE COCK STAMPS ISSUED BY THE HONG KONG POST OFFICE EARLIER THIS YEAR AND LUNAR NEW YEAR STAMPS ISSUED BY OTHER POSTAL ADMINISTRATIONS IN THE REGION.
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RESPONSE TO LIAISON OFFICER RECRUITMENT EXERCISE GOOD
*****
THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR ALBERT C C LAM, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) EXPRESSED SATISFACTION OVER THE RESULT OF THE LATEST RECRUITMENT EXERCISE FOR LIAISON GRADE OFFICERS IN THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION (CNTA).
SPEAKING AFTER PRESENTING PROMOTION LETTERS TO 20 LIAISON GRADE OFFICERS, MR LAM SAID A TOTAL OF 612 PEOPLE HAD APPLIED FOR THE POST OF LIAISON OFFICER II AND 412 HAD BEEN SHORT-LISTED FOR A WRITTEN TEST LAST MONTH.
HE EXPECTS A TEAM OF NEW RECRUITS WILL .JOIN HIS ADMINISTRATION BY EARLY NEXT YEAR.
MR LAM SAID PROMOTION PROSPECTS FOR THESE OFFICERS HAD BEEN GREATLY IMPROVED AFTER THE GRADE BECAME A DEPARTMENTAL GRADE.
ALREADY THERE WERE 20 PROMOTIONS SO FAR THIS YEAR.
/FIFTEEN LIAISON .......
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4, 1993
- 5 -
FIFTEEN LIAISON OFFICERS II HAVE MOVED UP TO LIAISON OFFICERS I, WHILE FIVE LIAISON OFFICERS I HAVE BEEN PROMOTED TO SENIOR LIAISON OFFICERS.
AFTER LIAISON OFFICERS TOOK OVER THE LIAISON DUTIES FROM EXECUTIVE OFFICERS IN URBAN DISTRICTS IN JANUARY, CNTA HAS CREATED NINE MORE LIAISON OFFICER I POSTS AND FOUR MORE SENIOR LIAISON OFFICER POSTS, MR LAM SAID.
"AS IT BECOMES A DEPARTMENTAL GRADE, CNTA WILL CREATE MORE LIAISON OFFICER POSTS SO AS TO PROVIDE BETTER PROMOTION PROSPECT FOR THOSE WITH GOOD PERFORMANCE," HE ADDED.
HE CALLED ON THE LIAISON OFFICERS TO KEEP UP WITH THEIR BROAD COMMUNITY SERVICE EXPERIENCES TO PROVIDE A EVEN BETTER PROFESSIONAL SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC.
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270 VM’S RETURNED TODAY * * * *
A GROUP OF 270 VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS TODAY (WEDNESDAY) RETURNED TO VIETNAM UNDER THE UNHCR’S VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME.
COMPRISING 108 MEN, 65 WOMEN, 48 BOYS AND 49 GIRLS, THEY WERE THE 159TH BATCH TO GO BACK UNDER THE PROGRAMME.
THIS GROUP BROUGHT TO 4,662 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS WHO HAVE RETURNED VOLUNTARILY THIS YEAR, AND TO 30,974 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF RETURNEES SINCE THE PROGRAMME STARTED IN MARCH 1989.
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS * * * * *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,760
REVERSAL OF LAF +240
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -20
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,980
LAF RATE 2.00 B1D/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.2 »-0.1* 4.8.93
/HONG KONG........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4, 1993
6
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.25 PCT 13 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.64 3.77
1 MONTH 2.54 PCT 16 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.80 4.01
3 MONTHS 3.06 PCT 19 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.80 4.25
6 MONTHS 3.36 PCT 22 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.79 4.51
12 MONTHS 3.76 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 21,038 MN
CLOSED 4 AUGUST 1993
- - 0 - -
Received by PRO
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVT TO HELP FIGHT SHENZHEN FIRE ............................. 1
TRANSCRIPT OF SECRETARY FOR SECURITY ALISTAIR ASPREY SPEAKING TO PRESS ON SHENZHEN FIRE ...................................... i
STEADY PROGRESS MADE ON RURAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEME: ACTING GOVERNOR ...................................... ................ 3
ACTING GOVERNOR SEES ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS ...... 4
TRANSCRIPT OF SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE MRS ANSON CHAN
SPEAKING TO PRESS ON PROPOSED EXPATRIATE PACKAGE ........... 5
CONTRACT AWARD FOR WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY - SOUTH SECTION .. 6
DRINKING WATER QUALITY ASSURED ............................... 7
LEGISLATION TO CONTROL BEDSPACE APARTMENTS IN THE PIPELINE .. 8
AIR POLLUTION UNDER MORE EFFECTIVE CONTROL ................... 9
GIRLS' HOME REPORTS REFUTED .................................. n
TELA WARNS AGAINST UNLAWFUL CHARGES FOR COMPUTER GAMES ....... 12
FILM CENSORSHIP (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCF TN FORCE NEXT YEAR .... 12
INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION FOR FIRST QUARTER ............. 13
CONTRACT FOR VILLAGE SEWER SIGNED ............................ 16
CAREER ADVICE FOR FORM 5 SCHOOL LEAVERS ...................... 17
COMPANIES REGISTRY PAMPHLET PUBLISHED ........................ 17
WATER CUTS IN TSIM SHA TSUI AND SOUTHERN DISTRICT ............ 18
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 18
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
GOVT TO HELP EIGH’I SHENZHEN FIRE
******
IN RESPONSE TO A REQUEST FROM THE MAYOR OF SHENZHEN, URGENT PREPARATIONS ARE BEING MADE BY HONG KONG’S ESSENTIAL SERVICES TO ASSIST THE SHENZHEN AUTHORITIES WITH FIRE FIGHTING AND RESCUE WORK FOLLOWING THE EXPLOSION NORTH OF SHENZHEN.
THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES, MR GERRY LAM, HAS FLOWN TO SHENZHEN BY A GOVERNMENT FLYING SERVICES HELICOPTER TO MEET SHENZHEN OFFICIALS AND MAKE AN ON-THE-SPOT ASSESSMENT. HE IS ACCOMPANIED BY TWO OF HIS SENIOR FIRE OFFICERS.
EARLIER, THE POLITICAL ADVISER’S OFFICE HAS ALSO BEEN IN TOUCH WITH NEW CHANA NEWS AGENCY OFFICIALS IN HONG KONG TO SEE WHETHER HONG KONG COULD PROVIDE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE AND TREATMENT FOR THE VICTIMS.
THE SHENZHEN AUTHORITIES HAVE INFORMED THE GOVERNMENT THAT THEY DO NOT AT THIS STAGE REQUIRE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE FROM HONG KONG.
’’BUT HAVE EXPRESSED GRATITUDE FOR OUR OFFER IN THIS REGARD.
"WE HAVE TOLD THE SHENZHEN AUTHORITIES THAT IF THE SITUATION SHOULD CHANGE WE REMAIN READY TO OFFER WHATEVER MEDICAL AND HOSPITAL HELP WE CAN," A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
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TRANSCRIPT OF SECRETARY FOR SECURITY ALISTAIR ASPREY SPEAKING TO PRESS ON SHENZHEN FIRE ******
ASPREY: WELL, GOOD EVENING. I’M SURE YOU’VE ALL HEARD OF THE EXPLOSION IN SHENZHEN THIS AFTERNOON. I DO NOT HAVE FULL DETAIL OF IT BUT I UNDERSTAND THAT THE EXPLOSION OCCURRED IN A CHEMICAL STORE APPROXIMATELY AT 1.30 THIS AFTERNOON. THIS IS LOCATED NORTH OF SHENZHEN TOWN. THE FIRE, I THINK, THAT RESULTED FROM THE EXPLOSION SPREAD TO AN ADJOINING TIMBER YARD AND I BELIEVE IS STILL CONTINUING NOW. WE ALSO UNDERSTAND THERE HAVE BEEN MANY CASUALTIES BUT WE DON’T HAVE PRECISE DETAILS OF THESE CASUALTIES.
OBVIOUSLY 1 THINK THAT ALL HONG KONG PEOPLE WOULD SYMPATHISE WITH THE CASUALTIES AND THEIR FAMILIES IN THIS GREAT TRAGEDY AND WOULD WANT HONG KONG TO ASSIST AS FAR AS WE CAN. THE NCNA MADE A REQUEST AT 7.30 THIS EVENING TO THE POLITICAL ADVISER FOR ASSISTANCE IN HELPING TO FIGHT THE FIRE. THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES HAS GONE UP TO THE SCENE OF THE FIRE BY HELICOPTER TO MAKE AN ASSESSMENT BOTH FROM THE AIR AND FROM THE GROUND AS TO HOW HONG KONG MIGHT ASSIST IN FIRE FIGHTING. HE HAS PUT SEVERAL APPLIANCES ON STANDBY IN SHEUNG SHUT WHICH COULD BE USED IF NEEDED.
/THE POLITICAL .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
- 2 -
THE POLITICAL ADVISER HAS ALSO OFFERED THROUGH THE NONA MEDICAL AND HOSPITAL HELP IF THAT IS NEEDED. AT THE MOMENT WE ARE AWAITING THE REPORT FROM THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES ON THE SCENE TO ADVISE US ON HOW WE CAN HELP FURTHER. MEANTIME WE HAVE ACTIVATED THE EMERGENCY CONTROL CENTRE IN THE SECRETARIAT AND ALSO ALL THE OTHER DEPARTMENTS THAT ARE LIKELY, POSSIBLY TO BE INVOLVED AND THEY ARE ON STANDBY. THE ACTING GOVERNOR HAS BEEN KEEPING A CLOSE EYE ON THE SITUATION AND WE’VE BEEN MAKING REGULAR REPORTS TO HIM. I THINK THAT IS ALL I REALLY HAVE TO HAVE TO SAY AT THE MOMENT. NOW WE ARE WAITING FOR MORE DETAILS ON THE SPOT ASSESSMENT FROM THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES.
QUESTION: (BURNS UNIT?)
ASPREY: WE OBVIOUSLY DON’T KNOW IN PRECISELY WHAT WAY WE CAN ASSIST UNTIL WE GET A PROPER ASSESSMENT OF THE SITUATION. BUT MEDICAL AND/OR HOSPITAL ASSISTANCE IS SOMETHING THAT WE HAVE OFFERED THEM THAT WOULD TRY TO ASSIST IN ANY WAY THAT WE COULD.
QUESTION: HOSPITAL AUTHORITY ...
ASPREY: THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY HAS BEEN WARNED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF CASUALTIES COMING IN. I THINK THAT’S AS FAR AS WE CAN TAKE IT AT THE MOMENT UNTIL WE HAVE MORE DETAILS TO GIVE THEM.
QUESTION: HOW MANY FIREMEN ARE NOW STANDING BY?
ASPREY: I MEAN THE FIRE SERVICES ARE ALWAYS ON STANDBY. BUT THERE
ARE SEVERAL APPLIANCES THAT HAVE BEEN PUT ON SPECIAL STANDBY AT SHEUNG SHUT. I DON’T HAVE THE EXACT DETAILS. BUT THERE ARE SEVERAL DIFFERENT SORTS OF APPLICANCES THAT HAVE BEEN EARMARKED AT THE SHEUNG SHUT FIRE STATION.
QUESTION: WHEN WAS THE LAST OF REQUESTS LIKE THIS ...?
ASPREY: NOT IN MY KNOWLEDGE, NOT AS FAR AS I KNOW.
QUESTION: WHICH HOSPTIALS WILL BE MOST LIKELY TO BE USED?
ASPREY: I DON’T KNOW AT THIS STAGE. THAT IS SOMETHING THAT THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY WOULD HAVE TO ASSESS AT THE TIME, GIVEN THE NUMBER OF CASUALTIES AND I SUPPOSE THE TYPE OF INJURIES INVOLVED. OBVIOUSLY WE WOULD MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO SEND THEM TO WHEREVER COULD BEST TREAT THEM.
QUESTION: WHEN DID NONA MAKE THE REQUEST?
ASPREY: AT 7.30 THIS EVENING, THEY FIRST CONTACTED THE POLITICAL
ADVISER AND WE’VE BEEN IN REGULAR CONTACTS WITH THEM SINCE THEN.
QUESTION: BUT HAVE THEY BEEN SPECIFIC ABOUT WHAT ARE THE THINGS THEY WANT, THERE ARE SO MANY ....?
ASPREY: WELL, THEY ASKED PARTICULARLY FOR ASSISTANCE WITH FIGHTING THE FIRE, BUT WE FELT THAT IT WAS NECESSARY TO HAVE THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES GO UP TO ASSESS THE SITUATION ON THE GROUND TO SEE IN WHAT WAY HE COULD BEST ASSIST SO THAT’S BEING DONE NOW.
/QUESTION: .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
QUESTION: WHY WASN’T HELP GIVEN EARLIER, WHY DO YOU WAIT FOR REQUEST?
ASPREY: WE DID NOT HAVE DETAILS OF THE INCIDENT. WE DID NOT KNOW
WHAT HAD HAPPENED. WE Dll) NOT KNOW THAT THEY WANTED ASSISTANCE OR WHAT SORTS OF ASSISTANCE THEY WANTED SO WE WAITED FOR REQUEST.
QUESTION: WHEN THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES WILL GIVE THE REPORT AND THE ASSESSMENT RESULT?
ASPREY: AS SOON AS HE CAN.
QUESTION: YOU MEAN RY MIDNIGHT OR ...?
ASPREY: I DON’T KNOW, .... WE’VE GOT 1'0 W \ II FOR HIM 1’0 GO AND MAKE A
THOROUGH ASSESSMENT.
QUESTION: DO YOU MEAN THAT HE IS NOW WORKING..
ASPREY: HE LEFT HERE RY HELICOPTER ABOUT HALF-AN-HOUR, MORE THAN
HALF-AN-HOUR AGO. I’M SURE HE’S UP THERE NOW, EITHER MAKING AN ASSESSMENT, EITHER IN THE AIR OR POSSIBLY HE’S ALREADY DONE IT. I DON’T HAVE THAT UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION.
QUESTION: WHO IS FLYING HIM THERE, IS THE HONG KONG FLYING SERVICE?
ASPREY: YES, THE GOVERNMENT FLYING SERVICE.
QUESTION: IS THIS THE FIRST TIME HONG KONG WAS ASKED FOR HELP FROM
ACROSS THE BORDER?
ASPREY: I THINK IT’S CERTAINLY THE FIRST TIME I CAN REMEMBER HELP IN THIS SORT OF INCIDENT BEING ASKED FOR. IT’S NOT BY ANY MEANS THE FIRST TIME THAT THE GOVERNMENT FLYING SERVICE HAS BEEN ACROSS THE BORDER. IT’S DONE SO FOR CASUALTY EVACUATION ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS IN THE PAST, AND NOT REGULARLY BUT OCCASIONALLY, FROM TIME TO TIME.
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STEADY PROGRESS MADE ON RURAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEME: ACTING GOVERNOR
* ♦ * * *
STEADY PROGRESS HAS BEEN MADE UNDER THE AMBITIOUS RURAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEME TO VILLAGES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, THE ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
"IT IS A WELL WORTHWHILE PROJECT AND ONE WHICH WE WOULD CERTAINLY CONTINUE TO GIVE PRIORITY TO OVER THE YEARS AHEAD,” SIR DAVID TOLD REPORTERS AFTER A VISIT TO YUEN LONG.
THIS RURAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEME IS DUE TO LAST ABOUT 10 YEARS AND WILL COST ABOUT $5 BILLION WITH OVER 1,000 DIFFERENT SCHEMES TO MAKE IT UP.
SIR DAVID SAID HE HOPED TO MAKE BETTER PROGRESS TO THE SCHEME.
/'•AND I
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
4
"AND I THINK WE SHOULD TRY TO THE WHOLE PROGRAMME," HE ADDED.
FIND WAYS OF TRYING TO SPEED
UP
HE ALSO DESCRIBED THE CLEAN-UP WORK TO THE YUEN LONG NULLAH AS A TYPICAL IMPROVEMENT WORK THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS TRYING TO BRING ABOUT.
ON THE POLICY TO ALLOW EXPATRIATE CIVIL SERVANTS TO SWITCH TO LOCAL EMPLOYMENT TERMS, SIR DAVID URGED CIVl'L SERVANTS TO GIVE THE NEW ARRANGEMENT A CHANCE TO WORK BEFORE CRITICISING IT TOO HEAVILY.
"IT WAS A VERY DIFFICULT DECISION THAT WE HAD. WE KNEW THAT IT WOULDN’T BE POPULAR WITH EVERYBODY BUT WE HAD TO TRY TO BE FAIR TO EVERYBODY. THAT’S WHAT WE’D TRIED TO DO."
HE SAID THE REACTIONS SO FAR HAD BEEN OVER-STRONG.
"I BELIEVE THAT THE CIVIL SERVICE SHOULD WAIT TO SEE HOW IT OPERATES BEFORE THEY OVER-REACT TO THIS ISSUE. BUT I DON’T BELIEVE THAT WE COULD HAVE TAKEN ANY OTHER MEASURES."
"IT WILL NOT HAVE A GREAT IMPACT ON LOCALISATION AND WILL NOT HAVE A GREAT IMPACT ON THE CIVIL SERVICE, " HE ADDED.
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ACTING GOVERNOR SEES
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
*****
THE ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, THIS (THURSDAY) AFTERNOON VISITED YUEN LONG TO SEE FOR HIMSELF SOME OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS CARRIED OUT BY THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT UNDER THE RURAL PLANNING AND IMPROVEMENT STRATEGY (RPIS).
HE WAS ACCOMPANIED BY THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR CANICE MAK, AND THE DIRECTOR OF TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT, MR CHOW CHE-KING.
SIR DAVID BEGAN HIS VISIT BY HAVING A BRIEFING ON THE PROJECTS AT THE NORTH WEST NEW TERRITORIES DEVELOPMENT OFFICE IN TIN SHUI WAI.
HE THEN PROCEEDED TO WANG LOK STREET TO SEE THE CONDITION OF A SECTION OF THE YUEN LONG NULLAH.
SIR DAVID LEARNED THAT THE ENVIRONMENT Of THE AREA NEAR THE NULLAH HAD BEEN GREATLY IMPROVED SINCE THE INSTALLATION OF AN INFLATABLE DAM ACROSS THAT SECTION OF THE NULLAH.
THE DAM, BUILT UNDER A $135 MILLION PROJECT TO TACKLE POLLUTION OF THE NULLAHS IN YUEN LONG, PREVENTS POLLUTED TIDAL WATER FROM ENTERING THE NULLAH.
/OTHER WORKS .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
5
OTHER WORKS OF THE PROJECT INCLUDE A 700-METRE CONCRETE LINING IN THE NULLAH AND A PUMPING STATION.
THE ACTING GOVERNOR THEN WENT TO A PEDESTRIAN FLYOVER IN NAM BIN WAI TO HAVE A LOOK AT THE YUEN LONG KAU HUI, AN OLD MARKET TOWN.
SIR DAVID LEARNED THAT THE EXISTING FACILITIES IN KAU HUI DID NOT MEET THE CURRENT LIVING STANDARDS.
DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS FOR THE OLD MARKET TOWN INCLUDE THE FORMATION OF LAND FOR DEVELOPMENT OF VILLAGE HOUSING EXPANSION AREAS, OPEN SPACES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND INDUSTRIAL AREAS FOR LIGHT INDUSTRIES.
CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS AND ASSOCIATED DRAINS HAS ALSO BEEN PLANNED.
BEFORE WINDING UP THE VISIT, SIR DAVID INSPECTED A FLOOD PREVENTION SCHEME IN THE LO UK VILLAGE, TIN SHUI WAI.
THE SCHEME CONSISTS OF BUNDS AND CATCHWATERS TO PREVENT FLOOD WATER FROM ENTERING INTO THE VILLAGE, AS WELL AS FLOOD STORAGE PONDS AND PUMPING STATIONS TO DRAIN THE CATCHMENTS INSIDE THE VILLAGE.
THE GOVERNMENT INTRODUCED THE RPIS IN 1989 TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF RURAL LIFE IN THE NEW TERRITORIES THROUGH INVESTMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE.
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TRANSCRIPT OF SECRETARY FOR MRS ANSON CHAN SPEAKING TO PRESS ON t * * ♦ *
THE CIVIL SERVICE PROPOSED EXPATRIATE PACKAGE *
SCS: WE HAVE OF COURSE BEEN PAYING ('LOSE ATTENTION TO THE
COMMENTARIES IN THE MEDIA AND ALSO COMMENTAR1ES FROM DIFFERENT QUARTERS. AND I THOUGHT THERE ARE SEVERAL POINTS THAT WE SHOULD CLARIFY.
FIRST OF ALL, I WANT TO STRESS THAT THE POLICY CHANGES THAT WE ANNOUNCED SEVERAL DAYS AGO ARE OF A SHORT-TERM, TRANSITIONAL NATURE. ESSENTIALLY, THE CONTRACTS WILL BE RENEWED ONLY FOR A PERIOD OF TWO AND A HALF YEARS. AS REGARDS LONGER-TERM ARRANGEMENTS, CERTAINLY ARRANGEMENTS THAT WOULD COMMIT THE FUTURE SAR GOVERNMENT, WE WOULD VERY MUCH LIKE TO START ANY EARLY DIALOGUE WITH THE CHINESE AND THE STAFF ASSOCIATIONS SO THAT WE CAN WORK HARD AND SET UP ARRANGEMENTS THAT ARE ACCEPTABLE TO ALL PARTIES.
SECONDLY, I THOUGHT THERE HAS BEEN A GROSS EXAGGERATION OF THE NUMBERS THAT ARE LIKELY TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN TRANSFERRING TO LOCAL AGREEMENT TERMS. WE 'I'll INK IN FACT THAT THE NUMBERS ARE LIKELY TO BE VERY SMALL, BEARING IN MIND THAT EVEN UNDER THE OLI) POLICY, A HIGH PERCENTAGE OF OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS WERE 'I’O BE SUCCESSFUL IN HAVING THEIR CONTRACTS RENEWED.
/THIRDLY, THE ........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
6
THIRDLY, THE PROCESS OF APPLYING FOR ANOTHER CONTRACT ON LOCAL AGREEMENT TERMS IS NOT BY ANY MEANS AN AUTOMATIC PROCESS. AN ELIGIBLE OFFICER FIRST OF ALL HAS To APPLY. WHETHER HE IS SUCCESSFUL IN HIS APPLICATION WILL DEPEND ON THE GOVERNMENT - THE ADMINISTRATION MAKING THE DECISION - BASED ON SERVICE NEED AND THE OFFICER’S PERFORMANCE AND ON WHETHER HE IS PHYSICALLY FIT. SO IT IS NOT BY ANY MEANS AUTOMATIC.
I WANT ALSO TO STRESS THAT WE REMAIN FULLY COMMITTED TO OUR LOCALISATION POLICY. THERE ARE TWO MAJOR TENETS TO THIS POLICY AS YOU PROBABLY KNOW. FIRST, WE WILL CONTINUE TO GIVE PRIORITY TO HIRING SUITABLE LOCAL OFFICERS. SECONDLY, ALSO WHERE LOCAL OFFICERS, SUITABLE LOCAL OFFICERS, ARE AVAILABLE TO REPLACE OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS, THEN WE WILL SO REPLACE THESE OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS.
I HAVE ALSO NOTICED THAT SOME OF THE COMMENTS SUGGESTED THAT PERHAPS THE GOVERNMENT, INSTEAD OF TAKING THE INITIATIVE TO CHANGE THIS POLICY, REALLY OUGHT TO LEAVE IT TO THE COURT TO DECIDE. NOW WE BELIEVE THE POLICY CHANGES WE HAVE ANNOUNCED CONCERN A VERY IMPORTANT ASPECT OF STAFF MANAGEMENT. ON SOMETHING AS IMPORTANT AS THIS, WE THINK THAT IT IS TOTALLY IRRESPONSIBLE OF THE ADMINISTRATION TO LEAVE IT TO THE COURT TO DECIDE. IF FOR ANY REASON WE FEEL THAT IN STAFF MANAGEMENT WE NEED TO HAVE MORE FLEXIBILITY IN THE OVERALL PUBLIC INTEREST ALTHOUGH IN ANY WAY IN INCONSISTENCY WITH THE LEGAL POSITION, THEN THE GOVERNMENT HAS THE RESPONSIBILITY TO TAKE THE INITIATIVE TO PUT RIGHT THE POLICY AND THIS IS WHAT WE HAVE DONE.
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CONTRACT AWARD FOR WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY - SOUTH SECTION
******
THE CENTRAL 'LENDER BOARD HAS ACCEPTED A HK$997 MILLION TENDER SUBMITTED BY AOKI CORPORATION OF JAPAN FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY SOUTH SECTION.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY SOUTH SECTION WOULD LINK ON THE NORTHERN LIMIT OF I HE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING TOLL PLAZA AT YAU MA TEI AND THE SOUTHERN LIMIT OF THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY NORTH SECTION AT TAI KOK TSUI.
THE MAJOR ITEMS OF THE WORKS INCLUDE THE BUILDING OF A 1.5-K1LOMETRE-LONG DUAL THREE-LANE EXPRESSWAY OF WHICH 0.4 KILOMETRE WILL BE DEPRESSED WITHIN A TROUGH STRUCTURE, 1.2 KILOMETRES OF PRIMARY DISTRIBUTOR ROAD ALONGSIDE THE EXPRESSWAY, A MAJOR INTERCHANGE, EXTENSIONS OF MAJOR BOX CULVERTS ACROSS THE NEW RECLAMATION, AN UNDERPASS AT CHERRY STREET AND A ONE-KILOMETRE-LONG REINFORCED CONCRETE TUNNEL ACROSS THE INTERCHANGE.
TENDERS WERE RECEIVED FROM EIGHT PREQUALIFIED TENDERERS AND THE JAPANESE COMPANY - AOKI CORPORATION - SUBMITTED THE LOWEST PRICED BID OF’ HK$997 MILLION.
CONSTRUCTION WORK WILL START LATER THIS MONTH AND IS TO BE COMPLETED IN THE LATER HALF OF 1996.
EXPECTED
/THE AWARD
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
- 7 -
THE AWARD OF THE WEST KOWLOON EXPRESSWAY SOUTH SECTION CONTRACT BRINGS THE TOTAL NUMBER OF GOVERNMENT-FUNDED CONTRACTS AWARDED ON THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME (ACP) TO 24, WITH A TOTAL VALUE OF ABOUT $27 BILLION.
TOGETHER WITH THE FOUR CONTRACTS AWARDED BY THE PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY VALUED ABOUT $9.7 BILLION, THE TOTAL VALUE OF CONTRACTS AWARDED ON THE ACP IS ABOUT $36.7 BILLION.
ALL THE CONTRACTS WERE AWARDED WITHIN BUDGET AND ARE SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION ON TIME.
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DRINKING WATER QUALITY ASSURED
*****
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT SAID THE QUALITY OF THE TREATED WATER SUPPLY IN THE TERRITORY CONFORMED TO THE GUIDELINES FOR DRINKING WATER QUALITY RECOMMENDED BY THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION.
THE REMARK WAS MADE IN RESPONSE TO SOME LOCAL NEWSPAPERS QUOTING LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEMBER REV FUNG CHI-WOOD AS SAYING THAT HE WAS STILL IN DOUBT OF THE TAP WATER QUALITY IN TAI PO AFTER MEETING THE DIRECTOR OF WATER SUPPLIES YESTERDAY (WEDNESDAY).
"ALL WATER TREATMENT WORKS IN HONG KONG ARE OPERATED STRICTLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HIGHEST STANDARD," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"THE WATER SUPPLIED TO TAI PO AREAS IS TREATED BY THE TAI PO TAU WATER TREATMENT WORKS WHICH HANDLES OVER 100,000 CUBIC METRES OF WATER A DAY TO MEET THE DOMESTIC AND NON-DOMESTIC DEMANDS IN THE AREAS," HE SAID.
"THE TAI PO TAU TREATMENT WORKS IS OPERATED NO DIFFERENTLY FROM OTHER WORKS IN THE TERRITORY.
"THE WATER QUALITY THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE SUPPLY, TREATMENT AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM IS SYSTEMATICALLY MONITORED BY CHEMICAL, BACTERIOLOGICAL AND BIOLOGICAL EXAMINATIONS OF WATER SAMPLES TAKEN AT INTAKES, STORAGE RESERVOIRS, TREATMENT WORKS, SERVICE RESERVOIRS, TRUNK MAINS AND THE CONSUMERS’ TAPS," HE STRESSED.
ON THE COMPLAINTS ON WATER QUALITY IN TAI PO DISTRICT, THE SPOKESMAN SAID: "WE RECEIVED 22 COMPLAINTS ABOUT UNSATISFACTORY QUALITY OF TAP WATER IN THE DISTRICT LAST MONTH."
"IT IS FOUND THAT THE UNSATISFACTORY WATER QUALITY IS MAINLY DUE TO THE RUST IN THE PIPES IN THE BUILDINGS CONCERNED."
HE ASSURED THE PUBLIC NOT TO WORRY ABOUT THE WATER QUALITY.
"IF THEY ARE IN DOUBT OF THE TAP WATER QUALITY, THEY SHOULD CONTACT US. THE TEI.EPHONE NUMBER OF OUR DEPARTMENT’S TECHNICAL COMPLAINTS CENTRE ARE 396 0210 FOR KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES AND 811 0788 FOR HONG KONG AND OUTLYING ISLANDS," HE SAID.
/8 ........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
8 -
LEGISLATION TO CONTROL BEDSPACE APARTMENTS IN THE PIPELINE *****
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (THURSDAY) SAID A BEDSPACE APARTMENTS BILL DESIGNED TO TACKLE PROBLEMS ARISING FROM THESE PREMISES HAD BEEN PUT TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
THE SECOND READING OF THE BILL TOOK PLACE ON JUNE 2 THIS YEAR AND THE BILL WILL BE EXAMINED BY A BILLS COMMITTEE OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
WITH THE ENACTMENT OF THE BEDSPACE APARTMENTS ORDINANCE, THE GOVERNMENT WILL HAVE STATUTORY POWERS TO LICENSE BEDSPACE APARTMENTS, TO REGULATE THEIR FIRE AND BUILDING SAFETY, AND TO PROSECUTE THE OPERATORS OF ILLEGAL BEDSPACE APARTMENTS THAT DO NOT POSSESS A VALID LICENCE.
AS REGARDS THE FIRE THAT OCCURRED AT A BEDSPACE APARTMENT IN TAI NAM WEST STREET, SHAM SHUT PO ON TUESDAY NIGHT, THE SPOKESMAN SAID 16 FIRE VICTIMS WERE NOW ACCOMMODATED IN THE TUEN MUN TRANSIT CENTRE.
SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT (SWD) STAFF ARE ASSISTING THEM TO SEE IF THEY QUALIFY FOR COMPASSIONATE REHOUSING.
FOR THE NON-WELFARE CASES, STAFF OF THE SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT OFFICE ARE ON THE GROUND TO HELP FIRE VICTIMS WHO WISH TO APPLY FOR ACCOMMODATION IN THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION’S SINGLETON HOSTEL AT 60 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, SHAM SHUI PO.
AS FOR BEDSPACE APARTMENTS IN GENERAL, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT OFFICERS FROM SWD PAID AT LEAST TWO VISITS A YEAR TO IDENTIFY TENANTS WHO MAY REQUIRE WELFARE BENEFITS, FAMILY SERVICES OR COMPASSIONATE REHOUSING, AND OFFER APPROPRIATE ASSISTANCE.
IN THE CASE OF THE ELDERLY WOMAN WHO DIED IN THE BLAZE, OFFICIAL RECORDS REVEALED THAT SWD HAI) MADE AN OFFER TO REHOUSE HER IN A HOME FOR THE ELDERLY BUT SHE HAD DECLINED THE OFFER.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO SAID THE BUILDINGS DEPARTMENT HAD OBTAINED AN EMERGENCY CLOSURE ORDER ON THE TWO FLOORS OF THE DAMAGED PREMISES AND CONTRACTORS ARE NOW REMOVING DEBRIS AND LOOSE PARTS TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF OTHER TENANTS AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
INSPECTIONS OF THE BUILDING’S STRUCTURE WILL ALSO BE CARRIED OUT IMMEDIATELY.
MEANWHILE, THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS STEPPING UP INSPECTIONS TO ADVISE OPERATORS OF BEDSPACE APARTMENTS ON FIRE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT WHILE THE LONG-TERM SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM OF BEDSPACE APARTMENTS LIES IN LEGISLATION AND LICENSING, EVERYTHING POSSIBLE WILL HE DONE BY GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS CONCERNED IN A WELL-COORDINATED MANNER TO MINIMISE FIRE RISKS AND TO CHECK ON THE SAFETY ASPECTS OF THESE PREMISES.
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/9 .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
9
AIR POLLUTION UNDER MORE EFFECTIVE CONTROL *****
I
THE COMMENCEMENT OF FOUR SETS OF AMENDMENTS UNDER THE 1993 AIR POLLUTION CONTROL (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE AND ASSOCIATED REGULATIONS WHICH ATM AT ACHIEVING BETTER AIR QUALITY IN HONG KONG WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN THE GAZETTE TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
THE AMENDMENTS INCLUDE PROVISION FOR THE REMOVAL OF EXEMPTION FROM LICENSING CONTROL OF EXISTING SPECIFIED PROCESSES, NEW CONTROLS OF ASBESTOS IN THE ENVIRONMENT, INCREASE IN PENALTIES AND SEVERAL OTHER MEASURES AIMED AT MORE EFFECTIVE CONTROL OF AIR POLLUTION IN HONG KONG.
AT PRESENT, THERE ARE 23 POLLUTING INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES WHICH HAVE BEEN CLASSIFIED AS SPECIFIED PROCESSES, BUT MOST EXISTING FACTORIES ARE EXEMPTED FROM THE LICENCING PROVISIONS OF THE ORDINANCE.
THE GAZETTED AMENDMENTS EMPOWER THE SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS TO REMOVE THE EXEMPTIONS OF THESE FACTORIES AND ALSO EXTEND THE DEFINITION OF SPECIFIED PROCESSES SO THAT MORE FACTORIES WILL COME UNDER LICENCING CONTROL.
AS A RESULT, THE NUMBER OF LICENSED PREMISES WILL INCREASE FROM ABOUT 50 TO 260.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (EPD) SAID SINCE THESE FACTORIES HAD A GREAT POTENTIAL FOR CAUSING AIR POLLUTION, REQUIRING THEM TO ADOPT THE BEST PRACTICABLE MEANS FOR AIR POLLUTION CONTROL WAS AN IMPORTANT STEP TO IMPROVE AIR QUALITY.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SPECIFIED PROCESSES WILL BE PHASED OVER FOUR YEARS WITH THE FIRST PHASE TO BEGIN THIS MONTH.
THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE ORDINANCE IS TO PUT IN PLACE PROPER CONTROLS FOR DEALING WITH THE MANAGEMENT AND REMOVAL OF ASBESTOS IN BUILDINGS AND SHIPS.
"EPD WILL REGISTER ASBESTOS CONSULTANTS, CONTRACTORS, SUPERVISORS AND LABORATORIES WHO ARE PROPERLY QUALIFIED TO PRACTISE IN THE TRADE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
AN ASBESTOS ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE WILL BE ESTABLISHED TO GIVE ADVICE ON REGISTRATION MATTERS AND TO CONDUCT INQUIRIES IN THE EVENT OF COMPLAINT ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE OF THE REGISTERED PERSONS.
THE ASBESTOS CONTROLS WILL ALSO BE IMPLEMENTED IN A PHASED MANNER. INITIALLY, ALL SCHOOLS AND HOSPITALS WILL NEED TO APPOINT A REGISTERED CONSULTANT TO SURVEY THEIR BUILDINGS AND PREPARE AN ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN.
IN ADDITION, THEY, AND ALL OTHER OWNERS OF PREMISES, WILL NEED TO PREPARE AN ASBESTOS-ABATEMENT PLAN BEFORE ANY WORK INVOLVING ASBESTOS IS CARRIED OUT.
/THEY WILL .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
- 10 -
THEY WILL ALSO BE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT THESE PLANS TO THE EPD AND NOTIFY THE DEPARTMENT OF THE COMMENCEMENT OF ANY ASBESTORS-RELATED WORKS.
THE THIRD AMENDMENT DRASTICALLY INCREASES FINES UNDER THE ORDINANCE. THE MAXIMUM FINE IS INCREASED FROM $50,000 TO $500,000 FOR A SINGLE CONVICTION. IF THE OFFENCE IS CONTINUED THE MAXIMUM DAILY FINE IS INCREASED FROM $5,000 TO $100,000 FOR EACH DAY.
THE MAXIMUM PERIOD OF IMPRISONMENT IS 12 MONTHS IN CASE A PERSON FAILS TO COMPLY WITH A LEGAL NOTICE THAT REQUIRES THE PERSON TO STOP THE OPERATION OF AN AIR POLLUTION PROCESS.
COMPANY DIRECTORS ARE HELD EXPLICITLY LIABLE FOR THE ACTIONS OF THEIR EMPLOYEES.
THE FOURTH SET OF AMENDMENTS RELATES TO THE PROVISION FOR THE ISSUING OF A TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM TO PUT THE ASSESSMENT OF AIR POLLUTION ON A MORE OBJECTIVE BASIS AND TO CLARIFY THE GROUNDS UNDER WHICH APPEALS UNDER THE ORDINANCE CAN BE BROUGHT BEFORE THE APPEAL BOARD.
AS FOR THE REGULATIONS, IN ADDITION TO CHANGES CONSEQUENTIAL TO THE AMENDED ORDINANCE, THE DEFINITION OF ’QUALIFIED ENGINEER’ HAS BEEN REDEFINED SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCE TO THE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN OF THE QUALIFICATIONS AND TO BRING IT INTO LINE WITH THE ENGINEERS REGISTRATION ORDINANCE.
ANY PERSON WHO WISHES TO SEEK ADVICE AND GUIDANCE ON THESE AMENDMENTS AND REGULATIONS CAN CONTACT THE AIR CONTROL GROUP OF THE EPD ON 33RD FLOOR, REVENUE TOWER, 5 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI OR TELEPHONE 594 6262 FOR ENQUIRIES.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
ACTING PRINCIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICER, MR CHAN KAI-WAH, WILL HOLD A PRESS CONFERENCE TO EXPLAIN THE DETAILS OF THE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE AT 4 PM THIS (THURSDAY) AFTERNOON IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM ON 33RD FLOOR, REVENUE TOWER, WAN CHAI .
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
GIRLS’ HOME REPORTS REPUTED * * * ♦ ♦
IN RESPONSE TO PRESS ENQUIRIES, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) SAID REPORTS ALLEGING THE LACK OF MEDICAL ATTENTION GIVEN TO GIRLS UNDER REMAND AT MA TAU WEI GIRLS’ HOME AND THAT 90 PER CENT OF THE INMATES HAD VENEREAL DISEASES WERE ABSURD AND UNTRUE.
HE POINTED OUT THAT PRELIMINARY MEDICAL EXAMINATION WAS PERFORMED ON THE GIRLS UPON THEIR ADMISSION BY THE THREE NURSES AT THE INSTITUTION.
AT PRESENT MEDICAL OFFICERS OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY VISIT THE HOME TWICE A WEEK.
THE DEPARTMENT HAS ALSO MADE A REQUEST TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF VISITS IN VIEW OF THE GROWING INTAKE DURING THE PAST FEW WEEKS.
"IT REQUIRED, THE INMATES WILL BE ESCORTED BY POLICE TO RECEIVE TREATMENT AT GOVERNMENT CLINICS AND HOSPITALS," HE SAID.
HE ADDED THAT SOME JUDGES HAD ASKED FOR MORE INTENSIVE MEDICAL TESTS TO BE CONDUCTED ON SOME OF THE GIRLS APPEARING IN COURT AFTER THEIR ADMISSION.
"GIRLS WHO ARE FOUND TO BE SUFFERING FROM VENEREAL DISEASES WILL RECEIVE PROPER TREATMENT. THE HOME WILL ALSO CARRY OUT PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES AS REQUIRED," HE SAID.
HE ADDED THAT THERE WERE ONLY VERY FEW GIRLS SUFFERING FROM SUCH AND THE ALLEGED FIGURE OF 90 PER CENT WAS NOT ONLY INCORRECT IN ITSELF BUT HAD ALSO CAUSED UNNECESSARY PUBLIC ALARM.
REGARDING THE OVERCROWDED CONDITIONS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID AFTER THE GIRLS IN THE PROBATION SECTION MOVED TO ANOTHER HOME YESTERDAY (WEDNESDAY), THE SITUATION HAD IMPROVED CONSIDERABLY.
"BOTH THE STAFF AND THE GIRLS UNDER REMAND AT MA TAU WEI WELCOME THE MOVE. PREVIOUSLY SIX GIRLS HAD TO SHARE A ROOM WITH FACILITIES DESIGNED FOR FOUR WHILE THE REMAINING TWO HAD TO MAKE DO WITH MAKE-SHIFT MATTRESS INSTEAD OF BEDS," HE SAID.
HE ALSO DENTED CHARGES OF UNHYGIENIC CONDITIONS IN THE GIRLS’ ROOMS, POINTING OUT THAT THEY WERE UNDER CLOSE CHECK OF VISITING JUSTICES OF PEACE.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT THE DEPARTMENT WAS CLOSELY MONITORING THE CONDITIONS IN THE HOME AND THE DIRECTORATE STAFF HAD ALSO VISITED THE HOME IN THE PAST FEW DAYS FOR FIRST-HAND INFORMATION AND TO DISCUSS WITH STAFF FURTHER MEASURES TO IMPROVE THE CONDITIONS.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
12 -
TELA WARNS AGAINST UNLAWFUL CHARGES FOR COMPUTER GAMES *****
IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR COMPUTER GAME SOFTWARE VENDORS TO CHARGE CUSTOMERS DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY FOR PLAYING COMPUTER GAMES PROVIDED IN THEIR SHOPS, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY (TELA) SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED THAT THE OPERATION OF THESE COMPUTERS FELL INTO THE DEFINITION OF AN AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRE UNDER THE AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRES ORDINANCE.
COMPUTER SOFTWARE VENDORS, THEREFORE, ARE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN AN AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRE LICENCE FROM TELA IF THEY PROVIDE AMUSEMENT GAMES ON THEIR PREMISES AT A CHARGE, WHETHER DIRECT OR INDIRECT.
BUT THOSE COMPUTER VENDORS WHO SELL SOFTWARE FOR PRIVATE USE WOULD NOT REQUIRE SUCH A LICENCE, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE SAID THE OPERATION OF THESE COMPUTERS WITHOUT A VALID LICENCE CONSTITUTED A BREACH OF THE LAW AND OFFENDERS WERE LIABLE TO A FINE OF $50,000 OR IMPRISONMENT FOR SIX MONTHS.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC COULD COMPLAIN TO TELA WHO WOULD REFER THE CASES TO THE POLICE TO TAKE ACTION AGAINST THOSE SHOPS OPERATING AMUSEMENT GAME CENTRES WITHOUT A LICENCE.
THEY COULD ALSO INFORM THE POLICE DIRECT.
---------0-----------
FILM CENSORSHIP (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE IN FORCE NEXT YEAR *****
THE FILM CENSORSHIP (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE 1993 ENACTED ON JULY 14 WILL COME INTO EFFECT ON JANUARY 14 NEXT YEAR, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
HE SAID A SIX-MONTH GRACE PERIOD WAS BEING GIVEN TO THE FILM AND VIDEO INDUSTRY (UNTIL JANUARY 14, 1994) TO ALLOW THEM SUFFICIENT TIME TO COMPLY WITH THE NEW STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS.
UNDER THE AMENDMENT ORDINANCE, WHEN A FILM IS APPROVED FOR EXHIBITION BY THE FILM CENSORSHIP AUTHORITY, IT IS DEEMED TO BE APPROVED FOR PUBLICATION IN THE FORM OF VIDEO TAPE AND LASER DISC.
TO COMPLY WITH THE ORDINANCE, THE VIDEO INDUSTRY WILL NEED TO DISPLAY THE APPROPRIATE CLASSIFICATION SYMBOL AND WARNING NOTICE ON VIDEO TAPES AND LASER DISCS MADE FROM FILMS CLASSIFIED BY THE FILM CENSORSHIP AUTHORITY, AS WELL AS ON THE RELATED ADVERTISING MATERIAL.
HOLDERS OF VALID CERTIFICATES OF APPROVAL OR EXEMPTION SHOULD NOTIFY THE FILM CENSORSHIP AUTHORITY WITHIN THREE MONTHS, FROM JANUARY 14, 1994, OF ANY APPROVED FILMS PUBLISHED BEFORE THIS DATE.
/THE REQUIREMENT .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
- 13 -
THE REQUIREMENT FOR APPROVED FILMS PUBLISHED AFTER THAT DATE IS THAT CERTIFICATE HOLDERS SHOULD NOTIFY THE AUTHORITY WITHIN ONE MONTH OF PUBLICATION.
UNDER THE AMENDMENT ORDINANCE, THE AUTHORITY MAY REQUIRE A CERTIFICATE HOLDER TO DEPOSIT WITH IT A COPY OF THE VIDEO TAPE OR LASER DISC PUBLISHED.
THE AUTHORITY MAY ALSO REQUIRE THE COVERS OF III CATEGORY VIDEO TAPES AND LASER DISCS TO BE ENCLOSED IN OPAQUE WRAPPERS.
IN ADDITION, ALL APPROVAL CERTIFICATES FOR FILMS EXAMINED UNDER REGULATIONS WHICH WERE IN FORCE BEFORE THE ENACTMENT OF THE FILM CENSORSHIP ORDINANCE 1988 WILL EXPIRE DURING THE GRACE PERIOD.
FILM DISTRIBUTORS WILL HAVE THE OPTION OF RESUBMITTING SUCH FILMS UNDER THE FILM CENSORSHIP ORDINANCE OR HAVING THEM SUBJECT TO THE VOLUNTARY SUBMISSION ARRANGEMENT UNDER THE CONTROL OF OBSCENE AND INDECENT ARTICLES ORDINANCE.
THE TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY WILL EXPLAIN IN DETAIL THE NEW STATUTORY PROVISIONS UNDER THE AMENDMENT ORDINANCE TO THE FILM AND VIDEO TRADE, AND WILL ALSO TAKE VARIOUS PUBLICITY MEASURES TO INFORM THE PUBLIC ABOUT THE NEW SCHEME FOR CONTROLLING VIDEO TAPES AND LASER DISCS.
THE SPOKESMAN EMPHASISED THAT ENFORCEMENT ACTION AGAINST ANY CONTRAVENTION OF THE ORDINANCE WOULD START PROMPTLY ON JANUARY 14 NEXT YEAR.
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INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION FOR FIRST QUARTER
*****
THE INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF THIS YEAR INCREASED SLIGHTLY BY 1.9% OVER THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR, ACCORDING TO A SURVEY CARRIED OUT BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THIS FOLLOWED AN INCREASE OF 1.6% FOR 1992 AS A WHOLE.
THE PAPER PRODUCTS AND PRINTING INDUSTRY CONTINUED TO REGISTER MARKED INCREASE IN PRODUCTION, BY 15.9%.
A NOTABLE INCREASE OF 8.3% WAS ALSO RECORDED IN THE INDUSTRY GROUP OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS, MACHINERY, PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT AND OPTICAL GOODS.
WITHIN THIS GROUP, THE PRODUCTION OF MACHINERY, EQUIPMENT, APPARATUS, PARTS AND COMPONENTS INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY BY 25.1% WHILE THE PRODUCTION OF CONSUMER ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INCREASED ONLY MARGINALLY BY 1.0%.
/THE INDUSTRY .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
- 14
THE INDUSTRY GROUP OF FOOD, BEVERAGES AND TOBACCO REGISTERED A MODERATE GROWTH OF 5.2%.
MEANWHILE, THE TWO MAJOR INDUSTRIES OF WEARING APPAREL AND TEXTILES (INCLUDING KNITTING) RECORDED VIRTUALLY NO CHANGE IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993.
ON THE OTHER HAND, SIGNIFICANT DECREASE OF 10.9% WAS RECORDED IN THE PRODUCTION OF BASIC METALS AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS.
THE INDUSTRY GROUP OF CHEMICALS, RUBBER, PLASTIC AND NON-METALLIC MINERAL PRODUCTS RECORDED A MODEST DECREASE OF 6.9% IN PRODUCTION. THE DECREASE WAS MAINLY ATTRIBUTABLE TO A FALL IN THE PRODUCTION OF PLASTIC PRODUCTS.
COMPARED WITH THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992, THE INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION SHOWED A MARKED DECREASE OF 20.6%. THIS DECREASE WAS, HOWEVER, LARGELY SEASONAL AS THE FIRST QUARTER IS USUALLY A LOW SEASON FOR MANUFACTURING PRODUCTION BECAUSE OF THE LUNAR NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS.
THE INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION REFLECTS CHANGES OF LOCAL MANUFACTURING OUTPUT IN REAL TERMS. IN OTHER WORDS, THE VOLUME OF LOCAL PRODUCTION IS MEASURED AFTER DISCOUNTING THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES.
MORE DETAILED INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND TN THE ’’REPORT ON THE QUARTERLY INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION, 1ST QUARTER 1993”, WHICH IS ON SALE AT $4 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, OR AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS SECTION, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAT TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI. REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION MAY ALSO BE ARRANGED.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 839 3238.
THE FOLLOWING TABLE SHOWS CHANGES IN THE INDEXES OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION IN GREATER DETAIL. AS FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992, THE HONG KONG STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION (HSIC) IS USED TO FORM THE INDUSTRY GROUPS AND BROAD INDUSTRY GROUPS PRESENTED IN THE TABLE.
/INDEXES OF .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
- 15 -
INDEXES OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION BY BROAD INDUSTRY GROUP AND SELECTED INDUSTRY GROUP
(1986 = 100)
BROAD INDUSTRY GROUP / SELECTED INDUSTRY GROUP INDEX FOR 1ST QTR 1993 % CHANGE OVER
1ST QTR 1992 4TH QTR 1992
1 . FOOD, BEVERAGES AND TOBACCO 142 + 5.2 -17.9
2. WEARING APPAREL, EXCEPT FOOTWEAR 95 0.0 -22.1
3. TEXTILES (INCLUDING KNITTING) 88 0.0 -34.3
4. PAPER PRODUCTS AND PRINTING 219 + 15.9 -13.4
5. CHEMICALS, RUBBER, PLASTIC AND NON-METALLIC MINERAL PRODUCTS 67 -6.9 -18.3
--PLASTIC PRODUCTS (50) (-12.3) (-23.1)
6. BASIC METALS AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS 90 -10.9 -15.1
--FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS, EXCEPT MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT (87) (-13.9) (-15.5)
7. ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS MACHINERY, PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT AND OPTICAL GOODS 144 + 8.3 -16.3
--CONSUMER ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS (106) (+1.0) (-22.6)
--MACHINERY, EQUIPMENT, APPARATUS, PARTS AND COMPONENTS ( 209) (+25.1) (-12.2)
8. MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES 81 -12.0 -18.2
/ALL MANUFACTURING .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
16 -
ALL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES
108
+ 1.9
-20.6
NOTES :1. FOUR SELECTED INDUSTRY GROUPS, WHICH CARRY RELATIVELY LARGE WEIGHTS AND ARE MAJOR COMPONENTS OF THE RESPECTIVE BROAD INDUSTRY GROUPS, ARE ALSO INCLUDED IN THE ABOVE TABLE. FOR EASY READING, THE FIGURES OF THESE SELECTED INDUSTRY GROUPS ARE SHOWN IN BRACKETS.
2. AS FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992, THE HONG KONG STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION (HSTC) IS USED TO FORM THE INDUSTRY GROUPS AND BROAD INDUSTRY GROUPS PRESENTED IN THE ABOVE TABLE. FOR THE EXACT COVERAGE OF THE GROUPS IN TERMS OF HSIC CODES, PLEASE REFER TO THE ’REPORT ON THE QUARTERLY INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION, 1ST QUARTER 1993’.
---------0-----------
CONTRACT FOR VILLAGE SEWER SIGNED *****
THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) SIGNED A $7.4 MILLION WORKS CONTRACT TO IMPROVE THE SEWERAGE SYSTEM OF VILLAGES IN NORTHEAST NEW TERRITORIES.
THE CONTRACT WAS SIGNED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (PROJECTS AND DEVELOPMENT), MR TSE HON-SUM, AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE CONTRACTOR, SHUN YUEN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY.
THE WORKS, WHICH FORM THE PHASE I OF THE NORTHEAST NEW TERRITORIES VILLAGE SEWERAGE IMPROVEMENT SCHEME, COMPRISE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 2.7-KILOMETRE-LONG SEWER PIPELINE WITH THREE PUMPING STATIONS.
’’THE PIPELINE WILL CONVEY DOMESTIC SEWAGE AND WILL EXTEND FROM TA KWU LING RURAL CENTRE AT PING CHE TO A PUMPING STATION UNDER CONSTRUCTION AT THE JUNCTION OF PING CHE ROAD AND LIN MA HANG ROAD, TA KWU LING,” MR TSE EXPLAINED AFTER SIGNING THE CONTRACT.
”IT WILL SERVE THE SEWERAGE NETWORKS AT PING CHE, PING YEUNG AND OTHER NEARBY VILLAGES,” HE SAID.
CONSTRUCTION WORKS WILL BEGIN LATER THIS MONTH FOR COMPLETION IN NINE MONTHS.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
- 17
CAREER ADVICE FOR FORM 5 SCHOOL LEAVERS * * * * *
ADVICE AND GUIDANCE ON FURTHER STUDIES AND CAREERS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SECONDARY FIVE SCHOOL LEAVERS AT THE CAREERS EDUCATION CENTRE OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT FROM NEXT TUESDAY (AUGUST 10) TO FRIDAY (AUGUST 13).
OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND EVEN DURING LUNCH TIME IN EXPECTATION OF AN INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF YOUNG VISITORS AFTER THEY RECEIVE THE RESULTS OF THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION ON TUESDAY MORNING, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.
STUDENTS CAN GET ACCESS TO MATERIALS ON OPPORTUNITIES FOR FURTHER STUDIES AND TRAINING, AND INFORMATION ON VARIOUS PROFESSIONS.
THE CENTRE IS IN ROOM 206 OF THE MONGKOK GOVERNMENT OFFICES AT 30 LUEN WAN STREET, MONG KOK.
NORMAL OPENING HOURS ARE: 8.45 AM TO 12.45 PM AND 2.15 PM TO 4.45 PM FROM MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS, AND 9.15 AM TO 11.45 AM ON SATURDAYS.
FROM NEXT TUESDAY TO FRIDAY THE CENTRE WILL BE OPEN WITHOUT A BREAK FROM 8.45 AM TO 5.30 PM.
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COMPANIES REGISTRY PAMPHLET PUBLISHED
*****
AN INTRODUCTORY PAMPHLET DESIGNED TO GIVE THE PUBLIC A BRIEF ACCOUNT ON THE OPERATION AND PERFORMANCE TARGETS OF THE COMPANIES REGISTRY HAS BEEN PUBLISHED, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
"THE HANDBOOK ATTEMPTS TO HELP MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC KNOW MORE ABOUT THE SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE DEPARTMENT UNDER ITS PERFORMANCE PLEDGES," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
THE REGISTRY, FORMERLY A DIVISION OF THE REGISTRAR GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT, WILL BE ONE OF THE FIRST GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS TO BE OPERATED ON A TRADING FUND BASTS WITH STRONG EMPHASIS ON MEETING PERFORMANCE TARGETS AND FINANCIAL OBJECTIVES.
A TRADING-FUNDED DEPARTMENT RECEIVES PAYMENTS FROM ITS CUSTOMERS IN THE PRIVATE OR PUBLIC SECTORS FOR SERVICES PROVIDED, WHICH ARE CREDITED TO THE FUND TO FINANCE ITS EXPENDITURE.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THIS SELF-FTNANC1 NG ARRANGEMENT GAVE THE DEPARTMENT GREATER FINANCIAL FLEXIBILITY TO RESPOND MORE PROMPTLY TO THE CHANGING NEEDS OF ITS FEE-PAYING CUSTOMERS AND TO INVEST IN CAPITAL PROJECTS AIMED AT IMPROVING EFFICIENCY.
/COPIES OF
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
18
COPIES OF THE PAMPHLET ARE NOW AVAILABLE FREE FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AT:
* THE ENQUIRY COUNTERS OF THE COMPANIES REGISTRY, 14TH AND 15TH FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG; AND
* THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY COUNTERS OF ALL CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION DISTRICT OFFICES.
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WATER CUTS IN TSIM SHA TSUI AND SOUTHERN DISTRICT *****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN TSIM SHA TSUI WILL GO OFF FROM 11 PM ON FRIDAY (AUGUST 6) TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT THE PREMISES AT SALISBURY ROAD, NATHAN ROAD, HAIPHONG ROAD, LOCK ROAD, HANKOW ROAD, ASHLEY ROAD, HUMPHREYS AVENUE, PEKING ROAD AND ICHANG STREET.
IN ADDITION, FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN SOUTHERN DISTRICT WILL BE CUT OFF FROM 10 PM ON MONDAY (AUGUST 9) TO 7 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE THE CONNECTION OF A WATER MAIN AT THE JUNCTION OF CHUNG HOM KOK ROAD AND STANLEY GAP ROAD.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT THE PREMISES AT HORIZON DRIVE, CAPE ROAD, CAPE DRIVE, CHING SAU LANE, CHUNG HOM KOK FIRE STATION, SATELLITE STATION, CHESHIRE HOME AND CHUNG HOM KOK BEACH.
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI
1,980
+ 20
2,000
NIL
-50
1,950
112.2 *+0.0* 5.8.93
/HONG KONG .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 1993
19 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.25 PCT 12 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.62 3.79
1 MONTH 2.53 PCT 15 MONTHS 24 1 1 4.625 100.80 4.01
3 MONTHS 3.08 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.80 4.25
6 MONTHS 3.38 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.79 4.51
12 MONTHS 3.75 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 9,744 MN
CLOSED 5 AUGUST 1993
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Received by PRO on 1 o AUG TO
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
HK READY TO HELP OVER SHENZHEN FIRE ....................... 1
WATER FROM CHINA NOT AFFECTED BY SHENZHEN EXPLOSION .......... 2
MESSAGE FROM SIR DAVID FORD, ACTING GOVERNOR OF HONG KONG TO MR LI YOUWEI, MAYOR OF SHENZHEN ............................ 2
SHENZHEN FOOD AND WATER NOT POLLUTED ...................... 3
CHECKS ON IMPORTED VEGETABLES ............................. 3
STRICT MEASURES MAINTAINED FOR EXPLOSIVES ................. 4
GREEN PAPER ON OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN IN THE MAKING ...... 5
PEOPLE HAVE MORE CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE ................. 6
GAS SAFETY FEES TO BE REVISED ............................. 7
CONDITIONS AT MA TAU WEI GIRLS' HOME SATISFACTORY ......... 7
WORK COMMENCEMENT DATE DESIGNATED ......................... 8
PLAN FOR BRIDGE ISLAND FINALISED .......................... 9
COMMITTEE TO CO-ORDINATE SERVICES FOR YOUTHS AT RISK ...... 9
CONTRACT SIGNED FOR SAI 0 WATER PUMPING STATION ........... 10
SAI KUNG ELECTORS GO TO THE POLLS ......................... H
DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT WORKS ON CHEUNG CHAU ................. 12
LAYING OF GAS PIPE PROPOSED ............................... 13
DREDGING AT TAI TAM BAY PROPOSED .......................... 13
RECRUITMENT OF MUSIC OFFICE TRAINEES ...................... 14
HONG KONG - OPPORTUNITY ASIA .............................. 15
LAND TO BE RESUMED FOR DRAINAGE WORKS ..................... 16
FLAG DAYS LINED UP FOR SECOND HALF OF 1993 ................ 16
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES SOUGHT ................. 18
CARNIVAL TO KICK OFF HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN ................. 18
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 19
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
HK READY TO HELP OVER SHENZHEN FIRE *****
THE ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT HONG KONG WAS READY TO OFFER ANY FURTHER HELP AND ASSISTANCE SHENZHEN MIGHT REQUIRE FOLLOWING THE FIRE YESTERDAY.
"IF THERE IS ANYTHING ELSE WE CAN DO, WE WILL CERTAINLY TRY TO HELP," HE SAID.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER OPENING THE SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION CONFERENCE, SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD DONE EVERYTHING THAT A GOOD NEIGHBOUR WOULD DO UNDER SUCH CIRCUMSTANCES.
THE ACTING GOVERNOR HAS SENT A MESSAGE TO THE MAYOR OF SHENZHEN OFFERING THE GOVERNMENT’S CONDOLENCES ON BEHALF OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG TO ALL THOSE WHO LOST THEIR LIVES OR WERE INJURED TN THE FIRE.
ASKED ABOUT SAFETY OF THE DAYA BAY NUCLEAR POWER PLANT, SIR DAVID SAID NO PARALLELS SHOULD BE DRAWN BETWEEN WHAT HAPPENED YESTERDAY AND ARRANGEMENTS FOR DAYA BAY.
"THERE IS A VERY CLOSE CONTROL OF DAYA BAY AND ITS DEVELOPMENT," HE SAID.
"IT’S BEING DEVELOPED UNDER INTERNATIONAL CODES OF PRACTICE.
"WE, OF COURSE, ARE IN VERY CLOSE CONTACT WITH THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES OVER THE WHOLE QUESTION OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF IT AND ALSO INDEED OF ANY OF THE ACTIONS WHICH WOULD BE TAKEN IN THE EVENT OF ANY ACCIDENT OR EMERGENCY.
"WE ARE PUTTING IN PLACE ARRANGEMENTS AGREED BY BOTH SIDES TO ENSURE THAT THEY WILL BE AS SAFE AS WE POSSIBLY CAN MAKE IT.
SIR DAVID ALSO REJECTED SUGGESTIONS THAT THERE WERE PARALLELS BETWEEN THE SHENZHEN INCIDENT AND THE STORAGE FACILITIES ON TSING YI ISLAND.
HE NOTED THAT THERE WERE EXTREMELY TIGHT PROCEDURES ON TSING YI AND THE FIRE SERVICES CARRIED OUT REGULAR INSPECTIONS.
"WE HAVE VERY TIGHT REGULATIONS AS TO THE STORAGE OF DANGEROUS GOODS AND LPG AND SO ON. AND I THINK THAT PEOPLE CAN REST ASSURED THAT THE SORT OF THING THAT HAPPENED YESTERDAY IN SHENZHEN COULD NOT HAPPEN ON TSING YI.
"I BELIEVE THAT ALL THE PRECAUTIONS WE HAVE TAKEN WOULD PREVENT SUCH AN ACCIDENT HAPPENING IN THAT WAY," HE ADDED.
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/2 ........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
2
WATER FROM CHINA NOT AFFECTED BY SHENZHEN EXPLOSION
* * * * *
THE EXPLOSION AND FIRE IN SHENZHEN YESTERDAY DID NOT AFFECT THE QUALITY OF WATER FROM CHINA, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE INCIDENT OCCURRED NEAR QINGSHUI RIVER WHICH IS NOT A TRIBUTARY TO SHENZHEN RESERVOIR WHERE THE SUPPLY OF WATER TO HONG KONG IS DRAWN.
THE AUTHORITY RESPONSIBLE FOR CHINA WATER SUPPLY, THE DONGSHEN WATER SUPPLY BUREAU, INFORMED WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT THIS MORNING THAT AFTER THE INCIDENT, THE SHENZHEN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION BUREAU HAD TESTED THE WATER AT SHENZHEN RESERVOIR.
”IT IS REPORTED THAT UP TO PRESENT, NO EFFECT OF THE EXPLOSION AND FIRE HAS BEEN DETECTED IN THE WATER BEING SUPPLIED TO HONG KONG,’’ THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
HE SAID THE DEPARTMENT’S CONTINUOUS MONITORING AT MUK WU RECEPTION POINT HAD NOT DETECTED ANY CHANGE TN WATER QUALITY SINCE THE INCIDENT OCCURRED.
THE SPOKESMAN ALSO CONFIRMED THAT THE TREATED WATER SUPPLIED TO CONSUMERS COMPLIED WITH THE PRESCRIBED STANDARDS AND WAS SAFE FOR DRINKING.
---------0---------
MESSAGE FROM SIR DAVID FORD, ACTING GOVERNOR OF HONG KONG TO MR LI YOUWEI, MAYOR OF SHENZHEN *****
THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING WITH SHOCK THE EVENTS IN SHENZHEN FOLLOWING THE EXPLOSIONS THERE YESTERDAY. ON THEIR BEHALF, AND THAT OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT, I SHOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS MY SYMPATHY TO THE SHENZHEN AUTHORITIES FOR THE TRAGIC LOSS OF LIFE AND DAMAGE TO THE LIVELIHOOD OF SO MANY PEOPLE CAUSED BY THE EXPLOSIONS AND SUBSEQUENT FIRE. I ALSO SEND PROFOUND CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILIES OF THE CASUALTIES.
AS YOU KNOW, THE EMERGENCY SERVICES IN HONG KONG WERE WORKING THROUGH LAST NIGHT TO SEE WHAT ASSISTANCE WE COULD PROVIDE SHOULD YOU NEED IT. WE REMAIN READY TO HELP IN ANY WAY WE CAN, FOR EXAMPLE TO SUPPORT YOUR FIRE FIGHTING OPERATIONS OR PROVIDE RACK UP FOR YOUR HOSPITALS. PLEASE LET US KNOW IF SUCH ASSISTANCE WOULD BE USEFUL.
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/3 .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
3
SHENZHEN FOO!) AND WATER NOT POLLUTED
* ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE GOVERNMENT HAD BEEN INFORMED BY THE SHENZHEN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION BUREAU THAT IT HAD BEEN MONITORING THE AIR, WATER AND VEGETABLES IN THE CITY SINCE THE TRAGIC ACCIDENT OCCURRED YESTERDAY.
UP TO NOW, THEY HAVE NO'!' DISCOVERED THAT THESE HAVE BEEN POLLUTED IN ANY WAY.
THE SHENZHEN AUTHORITIES WOULD IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT IF THEY DISCOVER ANY CONTAMINATION OF FOOD OR WATER TO BE EXPORTED TO HONG KONG.
--------0-----------
CHECKS ON IMPORTED VEGETABLES
» ♦ » « *
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TODAY (FRIDAY) HAS STEPPED UP EXAMINATION OF IMPORTED VEGETABLES, ESPECIALLY THOSE FROM SHENZHEN AND BUJI.
A TOTAL OF 48 VEHICLES CONTAINING VEGETABLES WERE INSPECTED AND THE VEGETABLES EXAMINED DID NOT CONTAIN EXCESSIVE DUST OR UNUSUAL SMELL. SAMPLES OF VEGETABLES HAVE BEEN TAKEN FOR FURTHER LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS.
THE RESULTS, WHICH WERE AVAILABLE TONIGHT, SHOWED NO EVIDENCE OF POLLUTION AS A RESULT OF THE ACCIDENT.
AS A GENERAL PRECAUTION, MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE AGAIN REMINDED TO OBSERVE GOOD FOOD HYGIENE PRACTICE INCLUDING THOROUGH WASHING AND COOKING OF VEGETABLES BEFORE CONSUMPTION.
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAS ALSO CONTACTED THE COMMODITY INSPECTION BUREAU, THE SHENZHEN AUTHORITY RESPONSIBLE FOR MONITORING EXPORTED VEGETABLES. THE BUREAU CONFIRMED THAT VEGETABLES EXPORTED TO HONG KONG WERE NOT CONTAMINATED AS A RESULT OF THE EXPLOSION.
- - 0-----------
/4 ........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
4
STRICT MEASURES MAINTAINED FOR EXPLOSIVES
* * t * *
STRICT SAFETY MEASURES RELATING TO EXPLOSIVES ARE MAINTAINED IN HONG KONG IN ACCORDANCE WITH INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT STRESSED TODAY (FRIDAY).
’’THE DEPARTMENT’S MINES AND QUARRIES DIVISION HAS OVER 26 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE LN THE HANDLING OF EXPLOSIVES. THERE HAS BEEN NO ACCIDENTAL EXPLOSION ARISING FROM STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION OF EXPLOSIVES DURING THAT TIME,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE SAFETY MEASURES MAINTAINED INCLUDED PROPER PACKAGING, SEPARATION OF DIFFERENT MATERIALS, PROHIBITION OF SMOKING AND FIRE PREVENTION MEASURES.
SAFE DISTANCES ARE MAINTAINED FROM OTHER
ACCORDANCE WITH THE STANDARDS LAID DOWN IN THE
FACILITIES IN
UNITED KINGDOM
EXPLOSIVES ACT.
WORK IS PROCEEDING ON A PLAN TO MOVE THE MAIN GOVERNMENT EXPLOSIVES DEPOT ON STONECUTTERS ISLAND TO KAU SHAT WAN ON LANTAU IN EARLY 1997.
THE EXPLOSIVES STORED ON STONECUTTERS ISLAND AND IN A MUCH SMALLER DEPOT AT PIPERS HILL, TAI PO, ARE DELIVERED TO BLASTING SITES BY THE MINES AND QUARRIES DIVISION IN SPECIALLY CONSTRUCTED EXPLOSIVES VESSELS AND TRUCKS UNDER STRICT SUPERVISION.
THE UNITED KINGDOM ROAD TRAFFIC (CARRIAGE OF EXPLOSIVES)
REGULATIONS AND THE
ASSOCIATED (ODE OF PRACTICE ARE STRICTLY FOLLOWED.
PRACTICALLY ALL THE EXPLOSIVES CONSUMED IN HONG KONG ARE USED IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
TWO MAIN TYPES OF EXPLOSIVES ARE USED. THEY ARE BULK EXPLOSIVES SUCH AS AMMONIUM NITRATE MIXTURES (ANFO) AND CARTRIDGE!) EXPLOSIVES.
THE AMMONIUM NITRATE USED IN ANFO IS CONTROLLED BY THE DIRECTOR OF FIRE SERVICES.
BULK EXPLOSIVES ARE MANUFACTURED LOCALLY UNDER A LICENCE GRANTED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF MINES FOR USE ON THE SAME DAY. NO OVERNIGHT STORAGE IS PERMITTED.
THE MINES AND QUARRIES DIVISION CARRIES OUT REGULAR INSPECTIONS OF THE LOCAL MANUFACTURING PLANTS.
SOME CARTRIDGE!) EXPLOSIVES ARE MANUFACTURED IN HONG KONG IN A LICENCED FACTORY ON STONECUTTERS ISLAND. OVERNIGHT STORAGE OF CARTRIDGE!) EXPLOSIVES IS PERMITTED, BUT ONLY AT GOVERNMENT EXPLOSIVE DEPOTS AND LICENCED MAGAZINES.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
- 5 -
GREEN PAPER ON OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN IN THE MAKING *****
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN AND MEN WILL BE A LIVELY ISSUE FOR DEBATE WHEN A GREEN PAPER IS PUBLISHED FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION WITHIN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS, THE ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION CONFERENCE, SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT WOULD LISTEN CAREFULLY TO .WHAT THE COMMUNITY HAD TO SAY ON THE SUBJECT.
"AGAINST THE BACKGROUND OF A FAST GROWING ECONOMY AND THE CONTINUED PROGRESSIVE DEVELOPMENTS IN OUR POLITICAL, SOCIAL AND EDUCATION SYSTEMS, WOMEN ARE PLAYING A MORE AND MORE IMPORTANT ROLE IN MANY FACETS OF OUR COMMUNITY LIFE.
"SO THERE IS NO DOUBT THE OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE IN THIS OPEN BUT COMPETITIVE SOCIETY, FOR WOMEN TO REACH THE TOP," HE SAID.
WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF UNIVERSAL SECONDARY EDUCATION A COUPLE OF DECADES AGO AND A DOUBLING OF THE PLACES AT UNIVERSITIES AND POLYTECHNICS IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS, THERE HAS BEEN A HEALTHY INCREASE IN WOMEN MANAGERS, PROFESSIONALS AND ADMINISTRATORS IN HONG KONG.
OF THE PROFESSIONALS, INCLUDING LAWYERS, DOCTORS, ACCOUNTANTS, NO FEWER THAN 32 PER CENT ARE WOMEN.
AS REGARDS THE GAP OF PAY DIFFERENTIAL BETWEEN MEN AND WOMEN, SIR DAVID SAID HONG KONG WAS NOT DOING TOO BADLY IN COMPARISON WITH OTHER COUNTRIES.
THE GOVERNMENT HAS TAKEN THE LEAD BY INTRODUCING EQUAL PAY FOR WOMEN AND MEN 18 YEARS AGO, HE SAID.
THE MEDIAN INCOME OF WOMEN IN RELATION TO THAT OF MEN INCREASES APPRECIABLY FROM 69 PER CENT IN 1981 TO 77 PER CENT IN 1991.
THE WAGE DIFFERENTIALS WILL CONTINUE TO NARROW BECAUSE THE TIGHT LABOUR MARKET IN THE TERRITORY WILL LEAVE LITTLE SCOPE FOR EMPLOYERS TO PAY FEMALE EMPLOYEES DIFFERENTLY FROM THEIR MALE COUNTERPARTS FOR JOBS OF EQUAL VALUE, HE ADDED.
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/6........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
- 6 -
PEOPLE HAVE MORE CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE * » « * *
HONG KONG PEOPLE HAVE MORE CONFIDENCE IN THEIR FUTURE, ACCORDING TO AN OPINION POLL CONDUCTED BY THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION (CNTA) LAST MONTH.
RELEASING THE FINDINGS OF THE TELEPHONE SURVEY TODAY (FRIDAY), A CNTA SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT ONLY 40 PER CENT OF THE RESPONDENTS EXPRESSED CONCERN OVER "HONG KONG’S FUTURE” - A SIGNIFICANT 8 PER CENT DROP OVER THE 48 PER CENT RECORDED LN THE LAST SURVEY IN MAY.
THE SURVEY WAS THE 47TH BIMONTHLY ONE CONDUCTED TO GAUGE THE TREND OF PUBLIC OPINION IN RESPECT OF PERCEIVED PROBLEMS IN HONG KONG, THE GOVERNMENT’S OVERALL PERFORMANCE AND THE COMMUNITY’S EXPECTATION OF THE GENERAL SITUATION.
A TOTAL OF 1,543 RESPONDENTS WERE SUCCESSFULLY INTERVIEWED IN THE POLL FROM JULY 12 TO 16.
THE FINDINGS ALSO SHOWED THAT 80 PER CENT OF THOSE WHO MENTIONED THE "HONG KONG’S FUTURE" AS A PROBLEM CONSIDERED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD EXERTED EFFORTS TO SOLVE IT, THE PERCENTAGE WAS SLIGHTLY HIGHER THAN THE PREVIOUS 77 PER CENT, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
ON OTHER AREAS OF CONCERN UNDER THIS SUBJECT, ONLY 18 PER CENT RAISED THE "RETURN OF SOVEREIGNTY/1997" AND 23 PER CENT ON THE "CHINAHONG KONG RELATIONS". THESE PERCENTAGES ARE SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER THAN THE 28 PER CENT RECORDED FOR BOTH IN THE MAY POLL.
THE SECOND MOST-TALKED-ABOUT PROBLEM WAS "HOUSING" WHICH CONSTITUTED 34 PER CENT OF THOSE INTERVIEWED AND COMPARED FAVOURABLY WITH THE 36 PER CENT RECORDED IN MAY.
FIFTY PER CENT WERE SATISFIED WITH THE OVERALL PERFORMANCE OF THE GOVERNMENT, COMPARED WITH 55 PER CENT IN THE LAST POLL.
SEVENTY-FIVE PER CENT WERE SATISFIED WITH THE PRESENT SITUATION AND 65 PER CENT HAD CONFIDENCE THAT HONG KONG WOULD CONTINUE TO BE PROSPEROUS AND STABLE - THE SAME AS THE FINDINGS REVEALED IN THE MAY POLL.
THE POLL WAS CONDUCTED ON A SYSTEMATIC RANDOM SAMPLE OF RESIDENTIAL TELEPHONE NUMBERS CONTAINED IN THE TELEPHONE DIRECTORY. WITHIN THE HOUSEHOLD OF A SELECTED TELEPHONE NUMBER, A RESPONDENT AGED BETWEEN 15 AND 64 WAS RANDOMLY CHOSEN FOR THE INTERVIEW.
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/7........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
7 -
GAS SAFETY FEES TO BE REVISED
*****
VARIOUS FEES PAYABLE UNDER THE GAS SAFETY ORDINANCE WILL BE REVISED NEXT MONDAY (AUGUST 9) TO REFLECT THE INCREASED COSTS OF PROVIDING THE SERVICES.
THREE SETS OF REGULATIONS TO THIS EFFECT WERE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THEY ARE THE GAS SAFETY (GAS SUPPLY) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993, GAS SAFETY (REGISTRATION OF GAS INSTALLERS AND GAS CONTRACTORS) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993 AND GAS SAFETY (REGISTRATION OF' GAS SUPPLY COMPANIES) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993.
THE GAS SAFETY (GAS SUPPLY) REGULATIONS STIPULATE THE FEES PAYABLE IN RESPECT OF APPLICATIONS FOR APPROVAL OF CONSTRUCTION WORK ON NOTIFIABLE GAS INSTALLATIONS; APPROVAL TO USE NOTIFIABLE GAS INSTALLATIONS; AND ISSUE AND ANNUAL RENEWAL OF PERMITS FOR GAS TRANSPORTATION VEHICLES - ROAD TANKERS AND LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS CYLINDER WAGONS.
THE GAS SAFETY (REGISTRATION OF GAS INSTALLERS AND GAS CONTRACTORS) REGULATIONS STIPULATE THE FEES PAYABLE IN RESPECT OF APPLICATIONS FOR REGISTRATION AS A GAS INSTALLER AND A GAS CONTRACTOR.
THE GAS SAFETY (REGISTRATION OF GAS SUPPLY COMPANIES) REGULATIONS STIPULATE THE FEES PAYABLE IN RESPECT OF AN APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION AS A GAS SUPPLY COMPANY.
”IT IS GOVERNMENT POLICY THAT FEES CHARGED BY THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD IN GENERAL BE SET AT A LEVEL SUFFICIENT TO RECOVER THE FULL ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS INCURRED,” A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
’’THE EXISTING FEES WERE BASED ON THE COSTS FOR 1990/91 AND HAVE BEEN IN FORCE SINCE THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE GAS SAFETY ORDINANCE IN APRIL 1991.
"THEY WILL BE REVISED TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE INCREASE IN COSTS BETWEEN 1990/91 AND 1993/94, WHICH WAS ABOUT 31 PER CENT,” HE SAID.
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CONDITIONS AT MA TAU WEI GIRLS’ HOME SATISFACTORY
*****
A SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (FRIDAY) REITERATED THAT CONDITIONS INSIDE THE MA TAU WEI GIRLS’ HOME WERE HYGIENIC AND THAT THE HANDFUL OF GIRLS WHO HAD VENEREAL DISEASES WERE RECEIVING PROPER MEDICAL ATTENTION.
HE FURTHER REFUTED CHARGES THAT THE DEPARTMENT HAD WARNED DISCIPLINARY ACTION AGAINST STAFF WHO DISCLOSED CONDITIONS ABOUT THE HOME, AS REPORTED EARLIER BY A PAPER, QUOTING SOMEONE CLAIMED TO BE A WORKER INSIDE THE HOME.
/"WE WILL .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
- 8 -
"WE WILL NOT STOP OUR STAFF GIVING OUT FACTS ABOUT CONDITIONS INSIDE THE HOME ESPECIALLY NOW THE ISSUE HAS BECOME A MAJOR CONCERN OF THE PARENTS OF THOSE GIRLS," HE SAID.
HOWEVER, HE ADDED THAT THEY SHOULD MAKE SURE THAT THESE WERE FACTS, NOT SOME UNFOUNDED ACCUSATIONS.
"BEING RESPONSIBLE SOCIAL WORK PERSONNEL THEY SHOULD KNOW SUCH UNTRUTHFUL ALLEGATIONS WILL HARM THE GIRLS UNDER OUR CARE. IN FACT THEIR PARENTS HAVE TOLD US THAT THEY ARE UPSET BY THESE REPORTS AND OUR STAFF ARE BUSY COUNSELLING THEM," HE SAID.
HE SAID A DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH OFFICIAL CARRIED OUT AN INSPECTION THIS MORNING, FOLLOWING ALLEGATIONS OF UNHYGIENIC CONDITIONS OF THE HOME.
THE SPOKESMAN CONFIRMED THAT THE HEALTH OFFICIAL WAS SATISFIED WITH THE CONDITIONS OF THE HOME.
HE ALSO CONFIRMED. THAT FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS WERE MADE TO COPE WITH THE GROWING NUMBER OF GIRLS IN THE HOME.
"THESE INCLUDE AN ADDITIONAL SESSION BY VISITING MEDICAL OFFICERS AND TEMPORARY DEPLOYMENT OF TWO ADDITIONAL NURSES," HE SAID.
A HEALTH TALK SESSION IS ALSO BEING ARRANGED FOR STAFF AND GIRLS IN CARE TOMORROW, HE SAID.
0
WORK COMMENCEMENT DATE DESIGNATED
******
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING ORDINANCE, THE DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS HAS DESIGNATED AUGUST 2 AS THE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING.
A NOTICE TO THIS EFFECT WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE WORKS WILL INCLUDE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A DUAL THREE-LANE TUNNEL, A TOLL PLAZA AND AN ADMINISTRATION BUILDING ON THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION AND AN INTERCHANGE ON THE WESTERN RECLAMATION AT SAI YING PUN. THEY WILL BE COMPLETED IN MID-1997.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID: "THIS IS AN IMPORTANT ELEMENT IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG’S TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE AND THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME."
"THE DESIGNATION OF AUGUST 2 FOR THE COMMENCEMENT OF CONSTRUCTION ENABLES THE FRANCHISEE TO TAKE POSSESSION OF THE SITE BEFORE MAJOR WORKS BEGIN," HE SAID.
/9 .........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
- 9 -
PLAN FOR BRIDGE ISLAND FINALISED
******
THE PROPOSED PLAN FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SHIP IMPACT PROTECTION ISLAND ON THE LANTAU SIDE OF THE KAP SHUT MUN BRIDGE HAS BEEN FINALISED AND IS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE ORIGINAL PLAN WAS PUBLISHED IN JANUARY 1991 BEFORE THE AWARD OF THE CONTRACT FOR THE BRIDGE. DETAILED DESIGN WORK DONE SINCE THEN HAS IDENTIFIED THE NEED TO EXTEND THE AREA OF FORESHORE AND SEABED THAT WAS PREVIOUSLY AUTHORISED.
THE PLAN SHOWING THE PROPOSED WORKS CAN BE SEEN AT THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT OFFICE, AND THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE/TSUEN WAN.
ANY PERSON WHO HAS AN OBJECTION TO THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE PLAN MUST WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT NOT LATER THAN OCTOBER 5 THIS YEAR, DESCRIBING HIS INTEREST AND THE MANNER IN WHICH HE CLAIMS TO BE AFFECTED.
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COMMITTEE TO CO-ORDINATE SERVICES FOR YOUTHS AT RISK
*****
THE CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE FOR THE WELFARE OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH AT RISK HAS BEEN FORMED TO CO-ORDINATE SERVICES FOR YOUTHS AT RISK, THE ACTING DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR ANTHONY CHAN WAI-KWAN, SAID.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING OF A YOUTH CAMP ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG ARTIST TRAINING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION TODAY (FRIDAY), MR CHAN SAID YOUNG PEOPLE FACED PROBLEMS LIKE DRUG \BUSE, TRIAD, ABSCONDENCE AND SEX.
IN ORDER TO HELP THEM, THE GOVERNMENT IS OMMITTED TO PROVIDING VARIOUS KINDS OF YOUTH SERVICES, INCLUDING SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK, OUTREACHING SOCIAL WORK AND YOUTH CENTRE SERVICES, HE SAID.
IN ADDITION, THE CO-ORD INATING COMMITTEE IS SET UP TO HELP DISADVANTAGED AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN AND YOUTHS.
UNDER THIS COMMITTEE, TWO WORKING GROUPS WERE FORMED, ONE ON SERVICES FOR YOUTHS AT RISK AND THE OTHER ON CHILD ABUSE.
THE WORKING GROUP ON SERVICES FOR YOUTH AT RISK WILL LOOK INTO THE EMOTIONAL AND INTERPERSONAL PROBLEMS FACED BY YOUNG PEOPLE, THE EXISTING SERVICES, AND THE NEED TO BEEF UP CO-ORDINATION OF VARIOUS SERVICES, MR CHAN SAID.
/ON THE ........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
10 -
ON THE OTHER HAND, THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT AND THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF YOUTH GROUPS HAVE JOINTLY SET UP A HOTLINE TO PROVIDE COUNSELLING SERVICE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AND THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS, HE SAID.
"COUNSELLORS WOULD REFER THE FAMILIES AND YOUNG PEOPLE IN TROUBLE TO SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT FOR FOLLOW-UP ACTION IF NECESSARY."
MEANWHILE, MR CHAN ALSO COMMENDED THE HONG KONG ARTIST TRAINING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION FOR ITS CONCERN ON YOUTH SERVICES.
THE YOUTH CAMP, FOR EXAMPLE, WAS ORGANISED WITH THE AIM TO HELP YOUNG PEOPLE DEVELOP POSITIVE ATTITUDES TOWARDS LIFE.
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CONTRACT SIGNED FOR SAI O WATER PUMPING STATION
*****
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT’S PROJECT TO EXPAND FACILITIES TO RECEIVE ADDITIONAL WATER SUPPLY FROM CHINA TOOK ANOTHER MAJOR STEP FORWARD TODAY (FRIDAY) WITH THE AWARD OF A $43.5 MILLION CONTRACT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A PUMPING STATION IN SAI O, SAI KUNG.
THE PUMPING STATION, WITH A TOTAL CAPACITY OF 1.5 MILLION CUBIC METRES PER DAY, WILL TRANSFER RAW WATER BETWEEN PLOVER COVE AND HIGH ISLAND RESERVOIRS.
IT WILL ALSO IMPROVE THE INLET WORKS AT PAK KONG AND SHA TIN TREATMENT WORKS TO MEET ANTICIPATED TREATED WATER OUTPUT REQUIREMENT AFTER 1994.
ASSOCIATED PIPEWORKS WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE CONTRACT.
THE WORKS WILL START THIS MONTH AND TAKE ABOUT 20 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
THE CONTRACT WAS SIGNED BY THE ACTING ASSISTANT DIRECTOR RESPONSIBLE FOR CHINA WATER, MR LEUNG MANG-CHIU, ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT, AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE GAMMON CONSTRUCTION LIMITED.
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/Il .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
11 SAI KUNG ELECTORS GO TO THE POLLS
VOTERS IN SAI KUNG WILL GO TO THE POLLS ON SUNDAY (AUGUST 8) TO ELECT THEIR REPRESENTATIVE TO THE REGIONAL COUN(IL.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (FRIDAY) URGED THE 47, 244 ELECTORS THERE TO EXERCISE THEIR RIGHT BY CASTING THEIR VOTES AT THE DESIGNATED POLLING STATIONS.
ELECTORS WILL HAVE A CHOICE OF SEVEN CANDIDATES, AN ALL-TIME HIGH FIGURE FOR A SINGLE-SEAT CONSTITUENCY.
THE INTENSE COMPETITION IS HOPED TO IMPROVE THE TURNOUT RATE FOR THE CONSTITUENCY. IN THE 1991 REGIONAL COUNCIL ELECTION, 31 PER CENT OF ELECTORS TURNED OUT TO VOTE.
THERE WILL BE 12 POLLING STATIONS, OPEN FROM 7.30 AM TO 10.30 PM.
VOTERS MUST PRODUCE THEIR IDENTITY CARDS TO ESTABLISH THEIR IDENTITY.
ALTHOUGH IT IS NOT A MUST FOR THEM TO BRING ALONG THEIR POLL CARDS, IT WILL SAVE TIME AND AVOID UNNECESSARY DELAY IF THEY DO SO.
VOTING IS BY SECRET BALLOT. ELECTORS MAY VOTE FOR ONLY ONE CANDIDATE BY MARKING AN "X” AGAINST THE NAME OF THE CANDIDATE OF THEIR CHOICE ON THE BALLOT PAPER.
IF ELECTORS HAVE ANY PROBLEM, PRESIDING OFFICERS AT THE POLLING STATIONS WILL BE ON HAND TO HELP.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
THE FOLLOWING ARE SOME OF THE PRESS ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA TO COVER THE BY-ELECTION:
PRESS CENTRE
A PRESS CENTRE WILL BE OPEN ON SUNDAY (AUGUST 8) FROM 7.30 AM TO 10.30 PM ON THE SECOND FLOOR OF SAI KUNG GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 34 CHAN MAN STREET, SAI KUNG TOWN.
THERE WILL BE THREE TELEPHONE LINES AND A FACSIMILE MACHINE FOR USE BY REPORTERS. A HOTLINE (791 1125) FOR THE PRESS WILL ALSO BE SET UP DURING THE BY-ELECTION.
CAR PARKING FACILITIES WILL BE PROVIDED FOR MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES AT THE PRESS CENTRE.
/VISIT BY .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
- 12
VISIT BY REGIONAL COUNCIL CHAIRMAN TO POLLING STATION
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG, AND THE DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL SERVICES, MR ADOLF HSU, WILL VISIT TWO POLLING STATIONS ON SUNDAY MORNING.
THEY WILL FIRST VISIT THE POLLING STATION AT SAI KUNG JOCKEY CLUB TOWN HALL AROUND 10 AM AND LATER THE ONE AT PO LAM ESTATE CARMEL SECONDARY SCHOOL AROUND 10.35 AM. GIS OFFICERS WILL BE ON HAND TO HELP REPORTERS COVER THE VISITS.
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DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT WORKS ON CHEUNG (HAU
*****
THE GOVERNMENT IS TO CONSTRUCT SUBMARINE OUTFALLS IN THE FORESHORE AND SEABED ON CHEUNG CHAU.
THE WORKS, WHICH FORM PART OF AN IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME FOR EXISTING ROADS AND DRAINS IN (’HEUNG CHAU OLD TOWN, WILL START IN JANUARY 1994 FOR COMPLETION BY JULY 1996.
MEANWHILE, THE GOVERNMENT HAS GIVEN AUTHORISATION TO THE CHINA LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY LIMITED TO LAY AN ADDITIONAL SUBMARINE CABLE BETWEEN CHI MA WAN PENINSULA OF LANTAU AND TA I SHEK HAU OF CHEUNG CHAU TO COPE WITH INCREASING DEMAND OF ELECTRICITY SUPPLY TO CHEUNG CHAU.
THE WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO START IN OCTOBER 1994 FOR COMPLETION IN DECEMBER OF THE SAME YEAR.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREAS OF FORESHORE AND SEABED AFFECTED ARE DESCRIBED IN NOTICES OF AUTHORISATION GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HIS INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED WILL BE AFFECTED BY THE WORKS MAY SEND TO THE DIRECTOR OF LANDS A WRITTEN CLAIM FOR COMPENSATION ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 6, 1994.
THE NOTICES TOGETHER WITH THEIR RELATED PLANS CAN BE SEEN AT THE LANDS DEPARTMENT SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD; AT THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE, 20TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, AND AT THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE, CHEUNG CHAU SUB-OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, 22 SAN HING STREET, CHEUNG CHAU.
THE PLAN OF THE SUBMARINE CABLE CAN ALSO BE SEEN AT THE MUI WO SUB-OFFICE OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE MUI WO GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 2 NGAN KWONG WAN ROAD, LANTAU.
THE PLANS CAN BE PURCHASED FROM THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE OF THE LANDS DEPARTMENT.
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/13........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
13
LAYING OF GAS PIPE PROPOSED * * * * *
A GAS PIPE WILL BE LAID TO LINK UP WITH THE MAIN PIPE FROM HAINAN TO SUPPLY FUEL FOR A POWER STATION BEING BUILT AT BLACK POINT, TUEN MUN.
THIS PROJECT, TO BE CARRIED OUT BY THE CASTLE PEAK POWER COMPANY, INVOLVES DREDGING IN THE FORESHORE AND SEABED OFF BLACK POINT TO FACILITATE THE LAYING OF A FIVE-KILOMETRE PIPE FOR THE LARGE THERMAL POWER STATION.
THE WORK WILL START EARLY NEXT YEAR FOR COMPLETION IN THREE MONTHS.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREA AFFECTED IS DESCRIBED IN A NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HE HAS AN INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED MAY SUBMIT A WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE DIRECTOR OF LANDS ON OR BEFORE OCTOBER 6.
THE NOTICE, TOGETHER WITH THE RELATED PLAN, CAN BE SEEN ON NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITE OF THE POWER STATION IN BLACK POINT.
THE PLAN CAN ALSO BE SEEN AT THE LANDS DEPARTMENT SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, AND AT THE TUEN MUN DISTRICT OFFICE, SECOND FLOOR, TUEN MUN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 1 TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN, NEW TERRITORIES.
THE PLAN CAN BE PURCHASED FROM THE LANDS DEPARTMENT SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE.
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DREDGING AT TAI TAM BAY PROPOSED
* * t * t
THE GOVERNMENT INTENDS TO CARRY OUT DREDGING IN THE FORESHORE AND SEABED AT TAI TAM BAY FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A CHANNEL FOR A CASTING BASIN AT SHEK O QUARRY.
THE WORKS WILL START LATER THIS YEAR AND BE COMPLETED IN SIX MONTHS.
THE EXTENT OF THE FORESHORE AND SEABED AFFECTED IS DESCRIBED IN A NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HE HAS AN INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED MAY SUBMIT A WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE DIRECTOR OF LANDS ON OR BEFORE OCTOBER 6, THIS YEAR.
/THE NOTICE.........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
THE NOTICE, TOGETHER WITH ITS RELATED PLAN, CAN BE SEEN ON NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITE.
THE PLAN CAN ALSO BE SEEN AT THE LANDS DEPARTMENT SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD; AND AT THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE, SHOP 25, GROUND FLOOR, MEI FUNG COURT, ABERDEEN CENTRE, 7-11 NAM NING STREET, ABERDEEN.
THE PLAN CAN BE PURCHASED FROM THE LANDS DEPARTMENT SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE.
- - 0 - -
RECRUITMENT OF MUSIC OFFICE TRAINEES *****
THE MUSIC OFFICE ANNOUNCED TODAY (FRIDAY) THAT IT WOULD RECRUIT PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL CHILDREN FOR ITS INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC TRAINING SCHEME.
STUDENTS INTERESTED IN MUSIC WOULD BE ABLE TO ENROL IN THE MUSIC OFFICE’S TRAINING CLASSES TO LEARN WESTERN AND CHINESE MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS INCLUDING VIOLIN, ER-HU, PIPA, TRUMPET AND FLUTE.
WEEKLY ONE-HOUR INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC TRAINING SESSIONS WILL BE CONDUCTED IN ONE OF THE FIVE REGIONAL MUSIC CENTRES WHICH ARE IN HONG KONG ARTS CENTRE, KWUN TONG, MONG KOK, SHA TIN AND TSUEN WAN.
AT THE HIGHER GRADES, STUDENTS WOULD ALSO RECEIVE AURAL/THEORY TRAINING AND ORCHESTRAL/ENSEMBLE TRAINING.
THE NEW TUITION FEES, WITH EFFECT FROM SEPTEMBER 1, THIS YEAR, ARE $100, $150, $200 AND $250 A MONTH FOR THE ELEMENTARY,
INTERMEDIATE, AND HIGHER LEVELS AND SPECIAL TRAINING RESPECTIVELY.
THEY REPRESENT INCREASES OF $40 TO $100 PER MONTH ON THE CURRENT FEES.
NEW RECRUITS AT THE ELEMENTARY LEVEL WOULD ONLY NEED TO PAY $100 A MONTH.
’’THE LAST FEE REVISION WAS MADE NEARLY THREE YEARS AGO,” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE MUSIC OFFICE SAID.
HE SAID: ’’SUCH REVISIONS ARE PART OF THE GOVERNMENT’S REGULAR EXERCISE TO SET FEES AT A REALISTIC LEVEL AND COVER PART OF THE COSTS.
THE FEES COVER INSTRUMENTAL TRAINING CLASSES, AURAL/THEORY TRAINING AND ORCHESTRAL/ENSEMBLE TRAINING AS THE CASE MAY BE.
"THEY REMAIN VERY LOW WHEN COMPARED WITH CHARGES FOR SIMILAR TRAINING PROVIDED BY OTHER INSTITUTIONS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
/ANY STUDENTS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
ANY STUDENTS WHO HAVE FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES CAN APPLY FOR FEE REMISSION.
THE APPLICATION FORMS FOR THE INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC TRAINING SCHEME WOULD BE AVAILABLE AT THE REGIONAL MUSIC CENTRES BY MID-SEPTEMBER.
APPLICANTS WILL HAVE TO ATTEND A HANDS AND MOUTH INSPECTION AND SIMPLE VOICE TEST IN THE MUSIC CENTRES IN OCTOBER. THE NEW CLASSES WOULD START IN NOVEMBER.
FOR FURTHER ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL 582 5314 (HEADQUARTERS), 802 0657 (HONG KONG), 796 2893 (KWUN TONG), 399 2200 (MONG KOK), 417 6429 (TSUEN WAN) OR 606 5731 (SHA TIN).
- - 0 - -
HONG KONG - OPPORTUNITY ASIA » » t » ♦
OVERSEAS BUSINESSMEN WERE BEGINNING TO REALISE HONG KONG’S GREAT POTENTIAL AS A PLACE IN WHICH TO DEVELOP THEIR OPERATIONS, ACCORDING TO THE PRINCIPAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC AND TRADE OFFICE IN TOKYO, MR DAVID LAN.
ADDRESSING A GATHERING OF 120 BUSINESS LEADERS OF THE JAPAN CENTRE FOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCE (JCIF) IN TOKYO, MR LAN SAID IN ADDITION TO HONG KONG BEING THE GATEWAY TO CHINA, IT WAS AN ASIAN HUB.
JCIF IS A SEMI-GOVERNMENT RESEARCH INSTITUTION UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE MINISTRY FINANCE AND THE BANK OF JAPAN (JAPAN’S CENTRAL BANK). ITS MEMBERS INCLUDE ALL MAJOR BANKS AND LARGE- AND MEDIUM-SIZED SECURITIES HOUSES AND TRUST BANKS.
’’WHILE HONG KONG AND CHINA ARE EACH OTHER'S LARGEST OUTSIDE INVESTOR AND TRADING PARTNER, HONG KONG IS ALSO THE LARGEST FOREIGN INVESTOR IN VIETNAM, THE SECOND LARGEST IN INDONESIA AND THE THIRD LARGEST IN THAILAND AND THE PHILIPPINES.
"BUSINESSMEN ARK CHOOSING HONG KONG BECAUSE OF OUR EXCELLENT BANKING, FINANCIAL AND OTHER SUPPORT SYSTEMS AND SERVICES, INCLUDING TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT," HE SAID.
MR LAN SAID HONG KONG ALSO HAD A POOL OF EXPERTS WHO HAD KNOWLEDGE OF, AND EXPERIENCE IN, DEALING WITH CHINA AND OTHER NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES. HONG KONG’S RULE OF LAW WAS ALSO ANOTHER MAJOR FACTOR.
ON THE ECONOMY, HE REITERATED THAT HONG KONG WAS STILL LOOKING AT A GROWTH RATE OF AROUND FIVE PER CENT THIS YEAR.
/"OUR TRADE
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
- 16 -
"OUR TRADE IS SUPPORTED BROADLY ONE-THIRD BY CHINA, ONE-THIRD BY THE ASIAN-PACIFIC REGION, AND ONE-THIRD BY THE REST OF THE WORLD. THIS IS A VERY HEALTHY BALANCE AS HONG KONG IS, IN A WAY, PROTECTED EVEN IF ONE OF THE THREE SECTORS SUFFERS A TEMPORARY SETBACK."
MR LAN ADDED THAT THE JAPANESE BUSINESSMEN WERE PARTICULARLY PLEASED TO LEARN THAT THE RECENT AGREEMENT WITH CHINA ON THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING AND THE CENTRAL RECLAMATION HAI) GIVEN ADDITIONAL IMPETUS TO THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECT.
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LAND TO BE RESUMED FOR DRAINAGE WORKS
******
THE GOVERNMENT IS TO RESUME SOME PRIVATE AGRICULTURAL LOTS IN NAI WAI, TUEN MUN FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A DRAINAGE CHANNEL TO RESOLVE FLOODING PROBLEM IN THE AREA.
THE LAND, COMPRISING PORTIONS OF 10 LOTS, HAS A TOTAL AREA OF 592 SQUARE METRES.
IT WILL BE REVERTED TO THE GOVERNMENT THREE MONTHS AFTER THE RESUMPTION NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO START IN SEPTEMBER AND TAKE ABOUT 15 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
--------0-----------
FLAG DAYS LINED UP FOR SECOND HALF OF 1993 *********
NINETEEN ORGANISATIONS WILL HOLD FLAG DAYS IN THE COMING MONTHS, A SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC CAN CALL THE DEPARTMENT’S HOTLINE 343 2255 IN CASE OF DOUBTS, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE ALSO APPEALED TO FLAG DAY ORGANISERS TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS AGAINST ANY POSSIBLE FRAUD.
"THEY SHOULD EXERCISE GREATER CARE IN MONITORING THEIR FLAGSELLING ACTIVITIES," HE ADDED.
THE ORGANISERS ARE ADVISED TO PREPARE GUIDELINES FOR SELLERS, SETTING OUT THE PLACES AND THE TIMES FOR SELLING, AND THE COLLECTION POINTS FOR BAGS.
/"FLAG DAY .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
17 -
"FLAG DAY ORGANISERS SHOULD INFORM THE POLICE IN CASE OF LOSS OF FLAGS OR COLLECTION BAGS, AND SEEK THEIR ASSISTANCE WHEN FRAUDULENT ACTS, SUCH AS TAMPERING OF COLLECTION BAGS OR MAKING UNAUTHORISED SELLING, ARE FOUND," HE SAID.
THE FLAG DAYS FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR ARE:
DATE ORGANISATION
AUGUST 7 21 CHRISTIAN FAMILY SERVICE CENTRE ARTS WITH DISABLED ASSOCIATION HK
SEPTEMBER 4 11 18 25 PO LEUNG KUK THE YOUNG MEN’S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF HK HK KIDNEY PATIENTS TRUST FUND TUNG WAH GROUP OF HOSPITALS
OCTOBER 2 9 16 SOCIETY OF HOMES FOR THE HANDICAPPED THE CHESHIRE HOME HONG KONG HK SPORTS ASSOCIATION FOR THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED
27 (WED) 30 SOCIETY FOR THE PROMOTION OF HOSPICE CARE HK TUBERCULOSIS CHEST & HEART DISEASED ASSOCIATION
NOVEMBER 6 13 20 27 HK ASSOCIATION FOR THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION HK FEDERATION OF HANDICAPPED YOUTH THE SALVATION ARMY
DECEMBER 4 11 18 HK OUTWARD BOUND SCHOOL SOCIETY FOR THE RELIEF OF DISABLED CHILDREN (DUCHESS OF KENT CHILDREN HOSPITAL) COMMUNITY CHEST OF HK
22 (WED) HK PLAYGROUND ASSOCIATION
---------0-----------
/18 ........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
- 18 -
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES SOUGHT *****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE TWO UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES IN NORTH POINT SO THAT THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND THE PUBLIC.
THE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES, APPENDAGES ON THE EXTERNAL WALL OF FLAT B ON THE FIRST FLOOR OF 94 CHUN YEUNG STREET AND FLAT C ON THE SECOND FLOOR OF 94A ARE USED FOR RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES.
NOTICES OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR CLOSURE ORDERS FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE ON OCTOBER 8 WERE POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY (FRIDAY).
DEMOLITION OF THE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES IS EXPECTED TO START AS SOON AS THE CLOSURE ORDERS ARE ISSUED.
--------0-----------
CARNIVAL TO KICK OFF HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN *****
A CARNIVAL AND EXHIBITION TO LAUNCH A HOME SAFETY CAMPAIGN WILL BE HELD IN WHAMPOA GARDEN ON SUNDAY (AUGUST 8).
THE EVENT IS JOINTLY ORGANISED BY THE AUXILIARY MEDICAL SERVICES (AMS) AND THE HUTCHISON WHAMPOA PROPERTY GROUP TO AROUSE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF HOME SAFETY.
THE CARNIVAL AND EXH IB I'I'ION WILL BE HELD FROM 12.30 PM TO 6.30 PM. ADMISSION IS FREE.
THE EVENT WILL BEGIN WITH A GRAND OPENING CEREMONY AT 12.30 PM AT SITE 12 OF THE WHAMPOA GARDEN SHOPPING ARCADE BY THE SIDE OF THE MUSIC FOUNTAIN.
THE CEREMONY WILL FEATURE THE FLOW OF THE MUSIC FOUNTAIN TO GO WITH THE RHYTHM OF THE AMS ANTHEM, A LION DANCE AND A DRAMA SHOW ON THE STAGE TO HIGHLIGHT THE IMPORTANCE OF HOME SAFETY.
THIS WILL BE FOLLOWED BY THE OPENING OF THE CARNIVAL AND EXHIBITION AT SITES 8 AND 11 OF THE SHOPPING ARCADE] WHERE THE AMS MUSIC BAND WILL STAGE A PERFORMANCE, THE AMS TASK F'ORCE WILL DEMONSTRATE EMERGENCY RESCUE AND THE AMS VOLUNTEERS WILL PERFORM A FOOTDRILL.
OTHER ENTERTAINMENTS WILL INCLUDE AN AMS FLAG DRILL TOGETHER WITH DEMONSTRATIONS TO FEATURE THE VARIOUS ACTIVITIES OF THE AMS.
RECRUITMENT COUNTERS WILL BE SET UP AT THE SITE TO DESPATCH FORMS AND INFORMATION LEAFLETS.
THE EXHIBITION WILL DISPLAY FIRST-AID EQUIPMENT, AMBULANCE AND AMBULANCE CYCLE, BLOOD PRESSURE EQUIPMENT, AND LIFE-SAVING AND CANOE EQUIPMENT.
/IN ADDITION, ........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 1993
- 19 -
IN ADDITION, THERE WILL BE A LUCKY DRAW AND A VIDEO SHOW TO CONVEY HOME SAFETY MESSAGES.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOU ARE WELCOME TO COVER THE OPENING CEREMONY.
OFFICIATING AT THE CEREMONY WILL BE THE ACTING KOWLOON CITY DISTRICT OFFICER, MISS DONNA WONG; AND THE CHIEF ESTATE MANAGER OF HUTCHISON WHAMPOA PROPERTY GROUP, MR FRANK WONG.
------0----------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,950
REVERSAL OF LAF +5°
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY “80
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,920
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.2 *+0.0* 6.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS
EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.45 PCT 12 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.60 3.81
1 MONTH 2.71 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.82 3.99
3 MONTHS 3.10 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.81 4.24
6 MONTHS 3.38 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.80 4.51
12 MONTHS 3.77 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 9,700 MN
CLOSED 6 AUGUST 1993
- - 0---------
Received by PRO on 1 0 AUG 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7, 1993
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
AFD STEPS UP VEGETABLE CHECKS ................................... 1
HEALTH DEPARTMENT CONTINUES TO CHECK VEGETABLES ................. 1
VOTE IN REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION: DISTRICT OFFICER .......... 2
MORE HELP FOR CHRONICALLY ILL ................................... 2
PNEUMOCONIOTICS GIVEN BETTER PROTECTION ......................... 3
YOUTHS URGED TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS ................ 4
YOUNG MUSICIANS TOUR AUSTRALIA .................................. 4
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
5
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7, 1993
AFD STEPS UP VEGETABLE CHECKS *****
THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT HAS STEPPED UP SAMPLING OF IMPORTED VEGETABLES, ESPECIALLY FROM SHENZHEN AND BUJI, FOR CHECKING OF CONTAMINANTS AT THE VEGETABLE MARKETING ORGANISATION’S CHEUNG SHA WAN WHOLESALE VEGETABLE MARKET.
THE NUMBER OF SAMPLES HAS INCREASED FROM THE DAILY ROUTINE OF 100 TO 200.
THE STEPPED-UP ACTION WILL CONTINUE FOR AS LONG AS NECESSARY.
INITIAL RESULTS FROM THE GOVERNMENT LABORATORY ON SAMPLES SENT FOR TESTING YESTERDAY HAVE INDICATED NO PRESENCE OF NITRATES OR OTHER CHEMICAL CONTAMINANTS.
THE DEPARTMENT WILL ALSO STRENGTHEN ITS MONITORING FOR PESTICIDE RESIDUE AS SOME FARMERS MAY HARVEST THEIR PRODUCE EARLIER THAN USUAL.
- - 0 - -
HEALTH DEPARTMENT CONTINUES TO CHECK VEGETABLES ♦ * * * *
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TODAY (SATURDAY) CONTINUED THE MONITORING OF FOOD INCLUDING VEGETABLES IMPORTED FROM CHINA AT THE BORDER CHECK POINTS.
SINCE THE BLAST IN SHENZHEN, 111 LORRY-LOADS OF VEGETABLES FROM CHINA HAVE BEEN INSPECTED AND NO CONTAMINATION HAS BEEN DETECTED.
THIRTY SAMPLES OF VEGETABLES HAVE BEEN SENT TO THE GOVERNMENT LABORATORY FOR TESTS OF CONTAMINATION ARISING FROM THE BLAST, IN PARTICULAR OF ANY POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION BY AMMONIUM NITRATES.
SO FAR, 14 OF THE SAMPLES HAVE NEGATIVE RESULTS SHOWING NO EVIDENCE OF CONTAMINATION. LABORATORY RESULTS FOR THE REMAINING 16 SAMPLES ARE PENDING.
MEANWHILE, THE DEPARTMENT WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR VEGETABLES OVER THE WEEKEND AND THE NEXT FEW DAYS.
THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED TO OBSERVE GOOD HYGIENIC PRACTICES, THOROUGHLY WASH VEGETABLES AND COOK WELL BEFORE CONSUMPTION.
- - 0 - -
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7, 1993
2
VOTE IN REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION: DISTRICT OFFICER
*****
RESIDENTS OF SAI KUNO SHOULD EXERCISE THEIR CIVIC RIGHT TOMORROW TO ELECT THEIR REPRESENTATIVE TO THE REGIONAL COUNCIL, THE SAI KUNG DISTRICT OFFICER, MR PARRISH NG, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SEVEN CANDIDATES WILL VIE FOR ONE SEAT IN THE CONSTITUENCY. THEY ARE MR WONG SHUI-SANG, MR LAW CHEUNG-KWOK, MR WONG WAH-KEUNG, MR WAI HING-CHEUNG, MR CHEUNG HON-TIN, MR FRANCIS CHAU AND MR LAM WING-YIN.
NOTING THAT THE REGIONAL COUNCIL IS THE STATUTORY MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES, MR NG SAID ITS WORK WAS CLOSELY RELATED TO THE LIVELIHOOD OF THE RESIDENTS.
IT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE, PUBLIC HEALTH, AND THE PROVISION OF RECREATIONAL AND CULTURAL FACILITIES FOR THE 2.5 MILLION PEOPLE IN THE RURAL AREA, HE SAID.
"THE SATISFACTORY TURNOUT RATES OF PREVIOUS ELECTIONS HAVE SHOWN THAT SAI KUNG RESIDENTS ARE VERY ENTHUSIASTIC IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS, AND THAT THEY HAVE DEMONSTRATED A STRONG SENSE OF BELONGING TO THE DISTRICT.
"SO PLEASE COME OUT AGAIN TOMORROW TO CAST YOUR VOTES, TO ELECT A REPRESENTATIVE TO FIGHT FOR THE WELFARE OF THE COMMUNITY," MR NG SAID.
THERE WILL BE 12 POLLING STATIONS, OPENING FROM 7.30- AM TO 10.30 PM.
VOTERS SHOULD GO TO THE POLLING STATION SPECIFIED IN THE POLL CARD, AND BRING ALONG THEIR IDENTITY CARDS AND POLL CARDS.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE OF THE REGISTRATION AND ELECTORAL OFFICE ON 827 1122.
------0-------
MORE HELP FOR CHRONICALLY ILL *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS DETERMINED TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR HONG KONG’S CHRONICALLY ILL, ESTIMATED TO EXCEED 100,000.
THE PLEDGE WAS GIVEN TODAY (SATURDAY) BY THE ADMINISTRATOR OF HOSPITAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MRS ROSE GOODSTADT.
"THE MOST URGENT ANXIETY FOR THE CHRONICALLY ILL IS THE QUALITY OF MEDICAL CARE TO WHICH THEY HAVE ACCESS," SHE SAID.
"BUT WE ALSO KNOW FROM EXPERIENCE THAT, VERY OFTEN, THE INDIVIDUAL AND THE FAMILY NEED TO BE RESTORED TO CONFIDENCE IN THEIR ABILITY TO OVERCOME THE DISABLING IMPACT OF A SERIOUS OR CHRONIC ILLNESS."
/A MAJOR .......
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7, 1993
3
A MAJOR STEP FORWARD IN THIS DIRECTION WAS THE GOVERNMENT’S SUPPORT FOR FIVE NEW REGIONAL COMMUNITY REHABILITATION NETWORKS.
MRS GOODSTADT EXPLAINED THAT THESE WOULD COMBINE MEDICAL AND REHABILITATION EXPERTS WITH SOCIAL WORKERS AND PSYCHOLOGISTS, TOGETHER WITH PATIENT SELF-HELP GROUPS.
THE FIRST TWO NETWORKS SHOULD BE OPERATIONAL WITHIN A YEAR.
MRS GOODSTADT WAS SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY FOR THE HONG KONG NEW VOICE CLUB HEAD OFFICE.
SHE PAID TRIBUTE TO THE CLUB’S OUTSTANDING RECORD IN PIONEERING THE DEVELOPMENT OF SELF-HELP GROUPS FOR PATIENTS OF SERIOUS DISEASES.
THE CLUB PROVIDES SERVICES FOR SOME 3,500 HONG KONG RESIDENTS WHO HAVE LOST THEIR VOICE OR NORMAL SPEAKING ABILITY BECAUSE OF CANCER, STROKES OR OTHER ILLNESSES.
SHE EMPHASISED THAT ALTHOUGH MORE PEOPLE NOW SURVIVED WHAT WERE FORMERLY KILLER DISSEASES, THEY WERE OFTEN LEFT CHRONICALLY ILL AND UNABLE TO WALK, TALK AND SOMETIMES BREATHE COMFORTABLY.
"WE HAVE TO SEE MEDICAL TREATMENT AS JUST THE FIRST STAGE IN A COMPLEX PROCESS OF REHABILITATION," SHE ADDED, "DESIGNED TO SUPPORT THE PATIENT, RELIEVE THE BURDEN ON THE FAMILY AND ENSURE THAT SICK PERSON RETURNS TO AS FULL, NORMAL AND SATISFYING A LIFE IN THE COMMUNITY AS POSSIBLE."
------0--------
PNEUMOCONIOTICS GIVEN BETTER PROTECTION *****
SUFFERERS OF PNEUMOCONIOSIS WILL BE GIVEN BETTER PROTECTION FOLLOWING THE ENACTMENT OF THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE 1993 LAST MONTH, THE COMISSIONER FOR LABOUR, MRS KATHERINE FOK, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
OFFICIATING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN FOR THE ORDINANCE, MRS FOK SAID: "THE NEW ARRANGEMENT WILL PROVIDE CONTINUED SUPPORT TO PNEUMOCONIOSIS SUFFERERS AND ENSURE THAT THEY WOULD BE TAKEN CARE OF AS THEIR HEALTH DETERIORATES.
"UNDER THE NEW SCHEME, COMPENSATION PAYMENTS WILL BE PAID MONTHLY UNTIL A PNEUMOCONIOTIC’S DEATH," SHE SAID.
"IN THE PAST, PNEUMOCONIOTICS WOULD BE GIVEN COMPENSATION ON A ONE-OFF BASIS OR BY TWO PAYMENTS," SHE ADDED.
MRS FOK NOTED THAT THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS COMPENSATION FUND BOARD PLAYED A MORE ACTIVE ROLE IN THE NEW COMPENSATION SCHEME.
SHE SAID IT WAS MEANINGFUL FOR THE FUND BOARD TO ORGANISE SUCH PUBLICITY ACTIVITIES TO ENABLE THE GENERAL PUBLIC TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE PREVENTION OF THE DISEASE.
/HELD AT .......
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7, 1993
4
HELD AT THE ENTRANCE ARENA OF THE NEW TOWN PLAZA OF SHA TIN, THE OPENING CEREMONY WAS FOLLOWED BY AN EXHIBITION DISPLAYING RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND EXPLAINING THE AMENDMENT ORDINANCE.
STALLS WERE ALSO SET UP TO TEST THE LUNG FUNCTION OF INTERESTED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WITH THE HELP OF NURSES FROM THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH DIVISION.
-----0-------
YOUTHS URGED TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS
*****
THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR ALBERT C C LAM, TODAY (SATURDAY) APPEALED TO YOUNG PEOPLE TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TERRITORY BY ACTIVELY PARTICIPATING IN COMMUNITY AFFAIRS.
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE HONG KONG RED CROSS BRADBURY TAI WO HAU CENTRE IN KWAI TSING, HE SAID BY TAKING PART IN COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES, YOUNGSTERS NOT ONLY MAKE MORE FRIENDS, BUT ALSO BUILD UP CONFIDENCE AND ENHANCE THEIR SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY.
MR LAM SAID HE WAS PLEASED TO NOTE THAT THERE WERE NOW MORE THAN 10,000 RED CROSS UNIFORMED MEMBERS FROM DIFFERENT WALKS OF LIFE, SCHOOLS AND YOUTH ORGANISATIONS.
’’THEY CARRIED OUT 104 SERVICE PROJECTS LAST YEAR, BENEFITING MORE THAN 15,000 PEOPLE,” HE SAID.
MR LAM ALSO COMMENDED THE VOLUNTEERS AND LEADERS OF THE RED CROSS FOR SACRIFICING THEIR LEISURE TIME AND PRAISED THE ORGANISATION FOR ITS MANY SOCIAL SERVICES.
------0-------
YOUNG MUSICIANS TOUR AUSTRALIA
******
FORTY MUSIC OFFICE TOUR.
MUSICIANS OF THE HONG KONG YOUTH SYMPHONIC BAND OF THE LEFT FOR AUSTRALIA LAST (FRIDAY) EVENING ON AN 11-DAY
UNDER THE BATON OF ITS MUSIC DIRECTOR, MR FUNG WING-KIT. THE BAND WILL GIVE A SERIES OF PERFORMANCES IN BRISBANE AND SYDNEY.
IT IS HOPED THAT THEIR PERFORMANCES WILL PROMOTE FRIENDSHIP AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE BETWEEN HONG KONG AND AUSTRALIA," MR FUNG SAID.
I HE 3 5 MEMBERS OF THE YOUTH BAND WERE SELECTED FROM MORE THAN 60 CANDIDATES IN MARCH THIS YEAR BY THE MUSIC OFFICE.
SINCE THEN THEY HAVE BEEN RECEIVING INTENSIVE TRAINING AND HAVE JUST COMPLETED A TRAINING PROGRAMME IN THE 1993 HONG KONG YOUTH MUSIC CAM P •
/THEY HAVE .......
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7, 1993
5
THEY HAVE ALSO GIVEN OVERSEAS PERFORMANCES IN JAPAN AND HAWAII IN RECENT YEARS.
THE TOUR DIRECTOR, MR SAMSON CHEUNG, SAID THE PURPOSE OF THE TOUR COULD ALSO PROVIDE MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS TO BROADEN THEIR OUTLOOK AND EXPERIENCE.
"IT WILL GIVE THEM THE CHANCE TO ACT AS AMBASSADORS FOR HONG KONG AND EXCHANGE EXPERIENCE WITH PEOPLE FROM AUSTRALIA," HE SAID.
"ALL THE TOUR MEMBERS ARE VERY EXCITED AT THE PROSPECT OF THE TOUR," HE NOTED.
THE GROUP WILL RETURN TO HONG KONG ON AUGUST 16.
- - 0 - -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
1,920
REVERSAL OF LAF
+ 80
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY
NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
-400
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
1,600
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
TWI 112.2 »+0.0»
7.8.93
- - 0 - -
Received by PRO
on 1 0 AUG 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SUNDAY, AUGUST 8, 1993
CONTENTS
PAGE NO
HEALTH DEPARTMENT CONTINUES TO CHECK VEGETABLES SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE ..............................
CONSULTATION ON CHARGING FOR CHEMICAL WASTE ENDS SOON ........
NEW GEOLOGICAL MAP PUBLISHED ...............................
HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL NEW YORK RACES HELD ...........
AFD SUBSIDIES FOR SECONDARY STUDIES ..........................
WATER CUT IN PEAK AREAS
5
SUNDAY, AUGUST 8, 1993
1
HEALTH DEPARTMENT CONTINUES TO CHECK VEGETABLES *****
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TODAY (SUNDAY) CONTINUED THE MONITORING OF FOOD INCLUDING VEGETABLES IMPORTED FROM CHINA AT THE BORDER CHECK POINTS.
SINCE THE BLAST IN SHENZHEN, 176 LORRY-LOADS OF VEGETABLES FROM CHINA HAVE BEEN INSPECTED AND NO CONTAMINATION HAS BEEN DETECTED.
FIFTY-ONE SAMPLES OF VEGETABLES HAVE BEEN SENT TO THE GOVERNMENT LABORATORY FOR TESTS OF CONTAMINATION ARISING FROM THE BLAST, IN PARTICULAR OF ANY POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION BY AMMONIUM NITRATES.
ALL SAMPLES HAVE NEGATIVE RESULTS SHOWING NO EVIDENCE OF CONTAMINATION.
MEANWHILE, THE DEPARTMENT WILL CONTINUE THE MONITORING OF VEGETABLES.
THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED TO OBSERVE GOOD HYGIENIC PRACTICES, THOROUGHLY WASH VEGETABLES AND COOK WELL BEFORE CONSUMPTION.
------0-------
SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE
*****
STAGE I OF THE FIVE-STAGE SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE WILL BEGIN ON TUESDAY (AUGUST 10) WHEN RESULTS OF THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION ARE ANNOUNCED.
INFORMATION ON THE PROCEDURES FOR EACH STAGE WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR THE EXAMINATION PARTICIPANTS, INCLUDING PRIVATE CANDIDATES, FROM TOMORROW (MONDAY) VIA THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S 24-HOUR AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE ENQUIRY SERVICE, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.
STUDENTS CAN OBTAIN DETAILS OF THE PROCEDURES FOR GETTING A SECONDARY 6 SCHOOL PLACE BY DIALLING 891 0088. THEY SHOULD TAKE THE FOLLOWING STEPS:
* PRESS THE DIGIT 1 OR 2 TO CHOOSE THE LANGUAGE
* PRESS 2 FOR STUDENT-RELATED INFORMATION
* PRESS 4 FOR INFORMATION ON SECONDARY 6 ALLOCATION SYSTEM
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
A PRESS CONFERENCE TO ANNOUNCE DETAILS OF THE SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE WILL BE HELD AT 3 PM TOMORROW (MONDAY) IN THE 14TH FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT AT WU CHUNG HOUSE, 213 QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI.
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO ATTEND.
/2 ........
SUNDAY, AUGUST 8, 1993
- 2 -
CONSULTATION ON CHARGING FOR CHEMICAL WASTE ENDS SOON ******
THE PUBLIC ARE REMINDED THAT CONSULTATION ON A PROPOSAL TO INTRODUCE A DIRECT CHARGING SCHEME FOR THE USE OF THE CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT FACILITY WILL END ON AUGUST 14 THIS YEAR.
THE GOVERNMENT PLANS TO INTRODUCE THE CHARGING SCHEME BY PHASES FROM MID-1994.
THE PROPOSED SCHEME IS IN LINE WITH THE POLLUTER PAYS PRINCIPLE AND IS DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE WASTE MINIMISATION AND ADOPTION OF CLEANER PRODUCTION TECHNIQUES.
PUBLIC COMMENTS SHOULD BE SENT TO THE ENVIRONMENT DIVISION, PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS BRANCH, 20TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG, BEFORE THE END OF THE CONSULTATION ON AUGUST 14.
-----0--------
NEW GEOLOGICAL MAP PUBLISHED
*****
THE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING OFFICE (GEO) OF THE CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT HAS PUBLISHED A GEOLOGICAL MAP OF THE NORTHEASTERN PART OF THE TERRITORY.
THE MAP, OF 1:20 000 SCALE, SHOWS THE GEOLOGY OF BOTH THE ONSHORE AND OFFSHORE AREAS. IT IS THE 12TH TN A SERIES PRODUCED BY THE GEO AS A RESULT OF THE SYSTEMATIC GEOLOGICAL MAPPING OF THE TERRITORY UNDER A GEOLOGICAL SURVEY.
THE AREAS COVERED INCLUDE MUCH OF MIRS BAY WITH ITS NUMEROUS SCENIC ISLANDS, SUCH AS TAP MUN CHAU (GRASS ISLAND), CHEK CHAU (PORT ISLAND), WONG WAN CHAU (DOUBLE ISLAND), NGO MEI CHAU (CRESCENT ISLAND) AND KAT 0 CHAU (CROOKED ISLAND).
THE ISLANDS OF PING CHAU AND SHEK NGAU CHAU HAVE BEEN INCLUDED AS INSETS FOR COMPLETENESS.
THE LARGELY UNDEVELOPED RECREATIONAL AREA COVERED BY THE MAP IS OF PARTICULAR GEOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE AND INTEREST.
THE STRIKING REI) SANDSTONES THERE ARE NOT FOUND ELSEWHERE IN HONG KONG, OFFERING A SCENIC VIEW AND AN OPPORTUNITY TO STUDY THEIR SEDIMENTOLOGICAL FEATURES.
THE OLDEST AND YOUNGEST SEDIMENTARY ROCK UNITS IN THE TERRITORY CAN ALSO BE SEEN, FROM THE DEVONIAN SANDSTONES AND CONGLOMERATES OF THE BLUFF HEAD FORMATION ALONG THE NORTHERN LANDMASS OF THE TOLO CHANNEL TO THE UNUSUAL LACUSTRINE SEDIMENTS OF PALAEOGENE AGE FOUND ON PING CHAU.
BOTH AREAS HAVE BEEN DESIGNATED SITES OF SPECIAL SCIENTIFIC INTEREST, LARGELY FOR THEIR GEOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE.
/THE MAP .......
3
SUNDAY, AUGUST 8, 1993
THE MAP ALSO INCLUDES A NUMBER OF LOCALITIES WHERE WELL-PRESERVED FOSSILS CAN BE FOUND.
PLANTS AND INSECTS HAVE BEEN DISCOVERED ON PING CHAU AND THE AMMONITE, HONGKONGITES HONGKONGENSIS, WAS FIRST IDENTIFIED FROM THE ROCKS OF THE TOLO CHANNEL COAST.
THE MAP WILL NOT ONLY BE OF VALUE TO THOSE CONCERNED WITH PLANNING, DEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION, BUT WILL ALSO HELP THE GENERAL PUBLIC GAIN A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING AND ENJOYMENT OF THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT IN THEIR RECREATIONAL PURSUITS.
THE MAP WILL BE FOLLOWED IN THE NEAR FUTURE BY THE PUBLICATION OF A FULL ACCOUNT OF THE GEOLOGY IN A MEMOIR WHICH WILL ALSO DESCRIBE TWO PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED GEOLOGICAL MAPS (SHEETS 2 AND 3).
ALL PUBLISHED MAPS AND MEMOIRS OF THE GEOLOGICAL SURVEY ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE AND MAP SALES OUTLETS OF THE LANDS DEPARTMENT.
- - 0 - -
HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL NEW YORK RACES HELD *****
SEVENTEEN TEAMS YESTERDAY (NEW YORK TIME) COMPETED IN EXCITING HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT RACES ON THE LAKE AT FLUSHING MEADOWS IN CORONA PARK, NEW YORK.
WINNING TEAMS INCLUDE PANE STONE CONSTRUCTION,WALL STREET LIONS CLUB, DELOITTE & TOUCHE, KOREAN AMERICAN NY CLUB. THEY WILL GO ON TO COMPETE IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP RACE NEXT SUNDAY (AUGUST 15) ON THE HUDSON RIVER AS PART OF THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK.
THE THIRD ANNUAL HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL, SPONSORED BY THE HONGKONG BANK, RUNS FROM AUGUST 7 TO 15.
THE WINNING TEAM OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP RACE WILL BE FLOWN TO HONG KONG TO COMPETE IN THE 1994 HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL BY DELTA AIR LINES, THE OFFICIAL CARRIER OF THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL.
THE 17 TEAMS PARTICIPATING IN TODAY’S NEW YORK CITY RACES ARE: PANE STONE CONSTRUCTION, KOREAN AMERICAN NY CLUB, CHINESE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI, HONG KONG ASSOCIATION, BATTLE FOWLER, TWO TEAMS FROM DELOITTE & TOUCHE, WEBSTER HALL, THE VIKINGS, BANK OF EAST ASIA, DAL CHONG HONG, CHINATOWN YMCA, HONGKONG BANK, WALL STREET LIONS CLUB,WESTCHESTER/HONG KONG SCHOOL ALUMNI, AT&T, AND DEBEVOTSE & PLIMPTON.
ADDRESSING THE OPENING OF THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK, SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MR JAMES SO, SAIDJ ’’THE DRAGON BOAT RACE, ACCORDING TO OLD CHINESE LEGEND STARTED OVER 2,000 YEARS AGO TO COMMEMORATE THE TRAGIC DEATH OF THE RIGHTEOUS, HONEST AND PATRIOTIC POET AND STATESMAN QU YUAN, HAS NOW BECOME AN INTERNATIONAL SPORTING EVENT.
/"EVERY YEAR
SUNDAY, AUGUST 8, 1993
4
"EVERY YEAR IN JUNE, OVER 30 TEAMS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD COME TO HONG KONG TO TAKE PART IN THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL RACES HELD IN VICTORIA HARBOUR," HE SAID.
HE SAID HE WAS DELIGHTED TO SEE THAT THIS TRADITIONAL CHINESE FESTIVAL SPORTING EVENT HAD NOW TAKEN ROOT IN NEW YORK.
"THIS YEAR, THE NUMBER OF TEAMS PARTICIPATING IN THE DRAGON BOAT RACES HERE IN YOUR GREAT CITY HAS MORE THAN DOUBLED THE NUMBER OF TEAMS TAKING PART IN 1991.
"THIS YEAR’S EVENT HAS MORE COLOUR AND VARIETY, IN THE FORM OF AN EXHIBITION AND CULTURAL FAIR HELD AT THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTER IN LOWER MANHATTAN," HE ADDED.
"I HOPE THESE EVENTS WILL ENABLE NEW YORKERS TO HAVE A COLOURFUL INSIGHT INTO THE MANY FACETED LIFE OF HONG KONG.
"I HOPE BY STAGING THESE CULTURAL EVENTS, WE WILL FOSTER A BETTER UNDERSTANDING AND CLOSER TIES BETWEEN US, SO AS TO ENHANCE THE ALREADY CLOSE TRADING AND ECONOMIC TIES BETWEEN HONG KONG AND THE USA," HE SAID.
"TODAY’S RACE MARKS THE OPENING OF THE THIRD HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK," SAID HONG KONG ECONOMIC AND TRADE OFFICE DIRECTOR MR ALEX FONG AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.
"WHEN THIS FESTIVAL WAS FIRST ORGANISED BY THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC AND TRADE OFFICE AND THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK IN 1991, THE BATTLE ON THE WATER WAS FOUGHT BETWEEN 11 TEAMS ON THE HUDSON RIVER," HE SAID.
"I AM PLEASED TO SAY THAT WE HAVE MOVED A LONG WAY SINCE THEN," HE ADDED. "THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL WILL BE MADE UP OF NOT ONLY THE HUDSON RIVER RACES, BUT TODAY’S RACE HELD HERE AT THE FLUSHING MEADOWS CORONA PARK. A TOTAL OF 24 TEAMS ARE COMPETING IN THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL. TWO CANADIAN TEAMS WILL BE MAKING THEIR FIRST APPEARANCE IN THE HUDSON RIVER RACE,”
THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL ALSO FEATURES A HONG KONG EXHIBITION/CULTURAL FAIR AT THE WINTER GARDEN AT THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTER FROM AUGUST 12 TO 15 AT 11 AM TO 6 PM.
HONG KONG WILL COME TO LIFE DURING THE FOUR DAYS. VISITORS WILL BE ABLE TO SAMPLE TRADITIONAL CHINESE DISHES, WATCH CHINESE ARTISANS CREATE ART OBJECTS,WATCH TRADITIONAL CHINESE DANCES AND SEE PERFORMANCES BY A CHINESE MUSIC ENSEMBLE, BROUGHT OVER FROM HONG KONG - THANKS TO THE HELP OF MR JAMES SO AND THE ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS IN HONG KONG - AND VIEW DEMONSTRATIONS OF CHINESE MARTIAL ARTS.
VISITORS WILL ALSO BE ABLE TO SEE THE MODERN FACES OF HONG KONG.
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/5 .......
SUNDAY, AUGUST 8, 1993
AFD SUBSIDIES FOR SECONDARY STUDIES *****
CHILDREN OF FARMING AND FISHING FAMILIES IN NEED OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO COMPLETE THEIR SECONDARY EDUCATION ARE REMINDED TO APPLY EARLY FOR THE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS AND MARINE FISH SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT SAID APPLICATIONS FOR THE SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS WILL CLOSE ON AUGUST 18 (WEDNESDAY).
APPLICATION FORMS ARE OBTAINABLE FROM THE DEPARTMENT’S HEADQUARTERS ON THE 12TH FLOOR OF CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 393 CANTON ROAD, KOWLOON AND FROM VARIOUS DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL AND FISHERIES LIAISON OFFICES.
APPLICANTS MUST BE STUDENTS IN FORMS 4 TO 7 AND THE AWARDS CAN BE TENABLE AT ANY SECONDARY SCHOOL IN HONG KONG.
SCHOLARSHIPS MAY BE AWARDED TO STUDENTS WHO HAVE ACHIEVED A STANDARD OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"STUDENTS MAY ALSO APPLY FOR GRANTS TO COVER TUITION FEES AND PURCHASE OF BOOKS. SUCH SUBMISSIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED ON A NEED BASIS," HE ADDED.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT APPLICATION PROCEDURES MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE SECRETARY OF THE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS AND MARINE FISH SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TEL 733 2249.
- - 0 - -
WATER CUT IN PEAK AREAS
* * * t *
FRESH AND FLUSHING WATER SUPPLIES TO SOME PREMISES ON THE PEAK WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 11 PM ON TUESDAY (AUGUST 10) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT MOUNT KELLET ROAD, PLUNKETT’S ROAD, PLANTATION ROAD, BLUFF PATH, 22 AND 24 GOUGH HILL ROAD, POLLOCK'S PATH, 3, 4, 26, 28, 30 AND 36 SEVERN ROAD, 60, 62, 64, 66, 99, 100 AND 110-116 PEAK ROAD; AND 4 PEEL RISE.
- - 0 - -
Received by PRO on 1 2 AUG i993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
SCHOOL CERTIFICATE EXAM RESULTS OUT ............................. 1
AG ORDERS REOPENING OF CLP INQUEST .............................. 2
LAM WING-YIN ELECTED TO REGIONAL COUNCTI......................... 2
64,491 ALLOCATED SUBSIDISED SECONDARY 4 PLACES .................. 3
TENDER FOR SECOND ISSUE OF EXCHANGE FUND NOTES .................. 4
REFORM UPHOLDS RIGHT TO HEALTH CARE: SHW ........................ 4
STATEMENT ON TRIAD AND STUDENT SERVICES ......................... 7
GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT ESTIMATE FOR FIRST QUARTER ............... 7
MORE IMPORTED VEGETABLES CHECKED ............................... 12
NO CHANGE IN WATER QUALITY ..................................... 12
CONTINGENCY PLAN ON GIRLS’ HOME ............................... 12
PROSECUTION AGAINST USING FALSE DOCUMENTS ..................... 13
COURSES ON COMMUNICATION WITH TRADE UNIONS ..................... 14
ENVIRONMENT ANNUAL REPORT ON SALE .............................. 14
PAMPHLET ON WEATHER WARNINGS PUBLISHED ........................ 16
WATER STORAGE FIGURE. .......................................... 17
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .
17
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
1
SCHOOL CERTIFICATE EXAM RESULTS OUT *****
THE RESULTS OF THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION THIS YEAR WILL BE ISSUED TO SCHOOLS AND PRIVATE CANDIDATES TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
THE RESULTS WILL BE ISSUED IN THE FORM OF INDIVIDUAL NOTICES SHOWING THE GRADES ACHIEVED IN EACH SUBJECT TAKEN. THEY ARE RECORDED IN TERMS OF SIX GRADES (A TO F). EACH GRADE IS SUB-DIVIDED INTO TWO SUB-GRADES.
INDIVIDUAL RESULTS NOTICES FOR SCHOOL CANDIDATES ARE AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION BY SCHOOLS AT THE HONG KONG EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY’S OFFICE AT SOUTHORN CENTRE, WAN CHAI. SCHOOL CANDIDATES SHOULD SEEK INFORMATION FROM THEIR OWN SCHOOLS ABOUT COLLECTION OF THE NOTICES.
RESULTS NOTICES HAVE BEEN POSTED TO PRIVATE CANDIDATES AND SHOULD REACH THEM TOMORROW. CANDIDATES WHO HAVE NOT RECEIVED THEIR RESULTS NOTICES TOMORROW MAY MAKE ENQUIRIES AT THE HONG KONG EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY ON 12TH FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE, 130 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG OR TELEPHONE 834 9922.
RESULTS NOTICES FOR CANDIDATES PRESENTED BY WONG SEWAI ENGLISH EVENING COLLEGE HAVE ALSO BEEN POSTED TO THEIR HOME ADDRESS.
A TOTAL OF 118,516 CANDIDATES ENTERED FOR THE EXAMINATION THIS YEAR, REPRESENTING A DECREASE OF 7.74 PER CENT COMPARED WITH 128,457 LAST YEAR.
ALTOGETHER 41 SUBJECTS WERE EXAMINED. THE PERCENTAGES OF AWARDS OF GRADE E OR ABOVE IN ALL SUBJECTS FOR ALL CANDIDATES AND SCHOOL CANDIDATES ARE 62.94 AND 62.22 RESPECTIVELY. THE CORRESPONDING PERCENTAGES LAST YEAR WERE 62.98 AND 62.13 RESPECTIVELY.
THIS YEAR THERE WERE THREE CASES OF PREMEDITATED CHEATING WHICH LED TO DISQUALIFICATION FROM THE ENTIRE EXAMINATION (FIVE IN 1992). THERE WERE NINE CASES INVOLVING A VARIETY OF SERIOUS BREACHES OF THE EXAMINATION REGULATIONS WHICH LED TO SUBJECT DISQUALIFICATION (13 IN 1992).
THE YEAR 1993 SAW A SIGNIFICANT DROP TN THE NUMBER OF CASES WHERE CANDIDATES RECEIVED MARK PENALTIES FOR LESS SERIOUS BREACHES OF THE REGULATIONS SUCH AS USING UNAPPROVED CALCULATORS (50 PER CENT DROP) AND IMPROPERLY INCLUDING THEIR NAMES IN THEIR ANSWER SCRIPTS (46 PER CENT DROP).
HOWEVER, THE AUTHORITY IS STILL CONCERNED ABOUT THE LARGE NUMBER OF PRIVATE CANDIDATES WHO ATTENDED EXAMINATION SESSIONS WITHOUT THEIR IDENTITY CARDS, THEREBY PLACING A QUITE UNNECESSARY STRAIN ON EXAMINATION CENTRE AND STAFF OF THE EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY WHO HAD TO VERIFY THE CANDIDATES’ IDENTITY AFTER THE EXAMINATION.
THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR 1994 HAVE BEEN RELAXED. ANY PERSON CAN ENTER FOR THE EXAMINATION AS A PRIVATE CANDIDATE PROVIDED THEY HAVE:
♦ SAT A PREVIOUS HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION, OR
* REACHED THE AGE OF 19 BY JANUARY 1, 1994.
- - 0 -
/2 ........
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
2
AG ORDERS REOPENING OF CLP INQUEST *****
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR JEREMY MATHEWS, HAS DECIDED TO EXERCISE HIS DISCRETION UNDER SECTION 20 OF THE CORONERS ORDINANCE TO REQUIRE THE CORONER TO REOPEN THE INQUIRY INTO LAST YEAR’S EXPLOSION AT CASTLE PEAK POWER STATION.
IN A LETTER TO THE CORONER MR WARNER BANKS, WHO PRESIDED OVER THE ORIGINAL INQUEST AND WHO SUGGESTED THAT IT BE REOPENED, MR MATHEWS SAID HE WAS CONCERNED THAT IMPORTANT RELEVANT EVIDENCE ’’MAY NOT HAVE BEEN BEFORE YOU AT THE ORIGINAL INQUEST” AND IT APPEARED THAT FURTHER INVESTIGATION INTO THE CAUSE OF THE ACCIDENT WAS NECESSARY.
IN PURSUANCE OF SECTION 20 OF THE CORONERS ORDINANCE, MR MATHEWS REQUIRED MR BANKS TO REOPEN THE INQUIRY AND PROCEED TO MAKE FURTHER INVESTIGATION IN THE SAME MANNER AS IF THE PROCEEDINGS AT THE ORIGINAL INQUEST HAD NOT BEEN CONCLUDED.
MR MATHEWS NOTED THAT HE HAD CAREFULLY CONSIDERED THE LETTER FROM MR BANKS TOGETHER WITH THE REPRESENTATIONS HE RECEIVED FROM MRS YIP AU LAI-CHUN, THE WIDOW OF ONE OF THE TWO ENGINEERS KILLED IN THE EXPLOSION, AND THOSE FROM CHINA LIGHT AND POWER LIMITED/CASTLE PEAK POWER COMPANY LIMITED THROUGH THEIR SOLICITORS, BEFORE REACHING HIS DECISION.
--------0-----------
LAM WING-YIN ELECTED TO REGIONAL COUNCIL
*****
MR
AND WON IN
LAM
THE
WING-YIN YESTERDAY (SUNDAY) BEAT SIX OTHER CANDIDATES REGIONAL COUNCIL BY-ELECTION IN SAI KUNG CONSTITUENCY.
MR LAM FETCHED A TOTAL OF 4,670 VOTES.
CHEUNG HON-TIN, WHO GOT 4,016 VOTES.
HE WAS FOLLOWED
BY MR
THE VOTES RECEIVED BY OTHER CANDIDATES i--* Z----
CHEUNG-KWOK ( 2,657), MR FRANCIS CHAU YIN-MING (2,312 VOTES I MR
U?5<’1oTBs'!'ESI' "" "" <552 A»»' MR
ARE AS FOLLOWS: MR
LAW WONG WONG
YESTERDAY’S BY-ELECTION WAS GILBERT LEUNG KAM-HO.
HELD TO FILL THE VACANCY LEFT BY MR
--------0 - -
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
3
64,491 ALLOCATED SUBSIDISED SECONDARY 4 PLACES
*****
THE PERCENTAGE OF STUDENTS ALLOCATED SUBSIDISED SECONDARY 4 AND POST-SECONDARY 3 CRAFT COURSE PLACES THIS YEAR IS 90.66 PER CENT, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID IN ANNOUNCING THE RESULTS OF THE JUNIOR SECONDARY EDUCATION ASSESSMENT.
ACCORDING TO THE SPOKESMAN, 77,028 STUDENTS TOOK PART THIS YEAR.
APART FROM 1,060 STUDENTS WHO HAVE OPTED OUT DURING THE YEAR, 64,491 HAVE BEEN ALLOCATED SUBSIDISED SECONDARY 4 PLACES, INCLUDING 56,504 WHO HAVE BEEN PROMOTED IN THEIR OWN SCHOOLS.
"IN ADDITION, 4,384 STUDENTS HAVE BEEN ALLOCATED FULL-TIME POST-SECONDARY 3 CRAFT COURSE PLACES," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE ADVISED STUDENTS TO RETURN TO THEIR ORIGINAL SCHOOLS TO CHECK THE RESULTS TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
STUDENTS WHO HAVE BEEN ALLOCATED TO OTHER SCHOOLS OR TECHNICAL INSTITUTES OR INDUSTRY TRAINING CENTRES WILL EACH BE GIVEN A REGISTRATION FORM WHICH MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE DESIGNATED SCHOOL DURING REGISTRATION ON WEDNESDAY.
FOR REGISTRATION, STUDENTS SHOULD BRING WITH THEM:
* THE REGISTRATION FORM;
* THEIR HONG KONG IDENTITY CARD;
» TWO RECENT PASSPORT-SIZED PHOTOGRAPHS; AND
» ENOUGH MONEY TO COVER ONE MONTH'S SCHOOL FEE WHICH MAY BE REQUIRED BY THE SCHOOL.
STUDENTS FAILING TO REGISTER ON WEDNESDAY WOULD BE DEEMED TO HAVE GIVEN UP THE SUBSIDISED SCHOOL PLACE, THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THOSE WHO HAVE NOT BEEN ALLOCATED SUBSIDISED SCHOOL PLACES WILL EACH BE PROVIDED WITH INFORMATION SHEETS ON THE POST-SECONDARY 3 CRAFT COURSES AND ALTERNATIVE OPPORTUNITIES OPEN TO THEM.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT APPLICATIONS FOR ADMISSION TO SECONDARY 4 OF THE EVENING SECONDARY SCHOOLS WILL START FROM TUESDAY TO FRIDAY (AUGUST 10-13).
HE SAID APPLICANTS SHOULD CALL IN PERSON 'AT THE ADULT EDUCATION SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ON THE 11TH FLOOR OF WU CHUNG HOUSE AT 213 QUEEN’S ROAD EAST, WAN CHAI (TEL 892 6669).
THEY SHOULD BRING WITH THEM THEIR STUDENT’S PARTICULARS SLIP ISSUED BY THE EDUCATION RECORDS AND JUNIOR SECONDARY EDUCATION ASSESSMENT SECTION AND A PHOTOCOPY OF THE SLIP WHICH WILL BE KEPT BY THE SECTION, HE ADDED.
/"STUDENTS SEEKING .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
4
"STUDENTS SEEKING INFORMATION ON ADULT EDUCATION COURSES SHOULD CONTACT THE ADULT EDUCATION SECTION DIRECT," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE SAID ALL ENQUIRIES ON THE ALLOCATION RESULTS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE EDUCATION RECORDS AND JUNIOR SECONDARY EDUCATION ASSESSMENT SECTION (TEL 891 9099).
------0-------
TENDER FOR SECOND ISSUE OF EXCHANGE FUND NOTES
*****
THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY ANNOUNCES TODAY (MONDAY) THAT THE TENDER FOR THE SECOND ISSUE OF EXCHANGE FUND NOTES WILL BE HELD NEXT MONDAY (AUGUST 16) FOR SETTLEMENT ON TUESDAY (AUGUST 17).
SIMILAR TO THE PREVIOUS ISSUE AN AMOUNT OF HKS500 MILLION TWO-YEAR NOTES WILL BE ON OFFER.
IN ADDITION, ANOTHER HK$100 MILLION WILL BE HELD AS RESERVE BY THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY FOR SUPPLY TO MARKET MAKERS IN THE SECONDARY MARKET.
THE NOTES WILL MATURE ON AUGUST 17, 1995 (THURSDAY) AND WILL CARRY INTEREST AT THE RATE OF 4.625 PER CENT PER ANNUM PAYABLE SEMI-ANNUALLY IN ARREARS.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO TENDER FOR THE NOTES MAY DO SO THROUGH ANY OF THE MARKET MAKERS OR RECOGNISED DEALERS ON THE PUBLISHED LIST WHICH CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY ON 30TH FLOOR, 3 GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG (OR TELEPHONE 878 8196)
EACH TENDER MUST BE FOR AN AMOUNT OF HK$50,000 OR INTEGRAL MULTIPLES THEREOF.
------0-------
REFORM UPHOLDS RIGHT TO HEALTH CARE: SHW
*****
REFORM OF HONG KONG'S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM WILL NOT DENY RESIDENTS’ RIGHT TO ADEQUATE MEDICAL TREATMENT BECAUSE THEY CANNOT AFFORD TO PAY, THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, REITERATED TODAY (MONDAY).
"THIS RIGHT IS ENSHRINED IN THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY ORDINANCE AND REMAINS THE CORNERSTONE OF OUR HEALTH CARE POLICY," MRS WONG SAID.
"REFORM WILL NOT SEEK TO CHANGE THIS RIGHT, ONLY TO REINFORCE IT," SHE ADDED.
NOR DOES REFORM MEAN A REDUCTION IN THE GOVERNMENT’S
RESPONSIBILITY TO PROVIDE QUALITY HEALTH CARE SERVICES.
/"TO ENSURE .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
5
“TO ENSURE THAT GOVERNMENT COMMITMENT REMAINS PARAMOUNT, THE GOVERNOR IN HIS ADDRESS TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL LAST OCTOBER PLEDGED TO INCREASE RECURRENT SPENDING ON HEALTH CARE BY 22 PER CENT IN REAL TERMS BY 1997,” MRS WONG RECALLED.
SHE NOTED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD SPEND NEARLY $15 BILLION THIS YEAR ON PUBLIC HEALTH CARE SERVICES, REPRESENTING $2,500 FOR EVERY MAN, WOMAN AND CHILD.
THIS IS AN INCREASE OF 7.8 PER CENT OVER LAST YEAR.
SPEAKING AT A LUNCHEON MEETING OF ZONTA CLUB OF VICTORIA, THE HEALTH CHIEF GAVE AN ASSURANCE THAT THE REFORMS OUTLINED IN THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT "TOWARD BETTER HEALTH" HAD THE INTEREST OF PATIENTS VERY MUCH IN MIND.
FOR EXAMPLE, THE DOCUMENT RECOGNISES THE MANY POOR PATIENTS --THE ELDERLY, THE DISABLED, THE CHRONICALLY-ILL UNEMPLOYED — AND PROPOSES SPECIAL WAIVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR THEM.
"AT PRESENT, THERE IS NO CLEAR-CUT WAIVER SYSTEM AND THESE PATIENTS ENTER HOSPITAL WITH NO CERTAINTY OF ACCESS TO WAIVER," MRS WONG POINTED OUT.
"IF THE OPTION IN THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT IS ACCEPTED, THEY WOULD IN FUTURE PAY ONLY HALF THE REGULAR FEE OR, PERHAPS, NOTHING AT ALL," SHE SAID, ADDING THAT THIS WAIVER ARRANGEMENT WILL BE AUTOMATIC SO THAT THE PATIENTS NEED NOT APPLY AND BE ASSESSED ON EACH OCCASION.
MRS WONG THEN REFERRED TO ANOTHER GROUP OF PATIENTS WHO WERE AT PRESENT STUCK WITHOUT CHOICE, THE BETTER-OFF PEOPLE WHO DESIRED GREATER PRIVACY AND COMFORT BUT WHO COULD NOT AFFORD PRIVATE HOSPITALS.
"FOR THEM, WE ARE TARGETING A NEW CLASS OF SEMI-PRIVATE ROOMS IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS," SHE SAID.
"THEY CAN HAVE THE GREATER COMFORT THEY DESIRE, IF THEY ARE PREPARED TO PAY MORE FOR THE PRIVILEGE; IF NOT, GENERAL WARDS WOULD STILL BE AVAILABLE TO THEM,” THE SECRETARY SAID.
SHE STRESSED THAT NOBODY WOULD BE FORCED TO OCCUPY A SEMI-PRIVATE ROOM AND THAT THESE ROOMS WOULD NOT BE PROVIDED AT THE EXPENSE OF GENERAL WARD BEDS.
"IF NO GENERAL WARD BED IS AVAILABLE, ANY PATIENT WHO DEMANDS ONE WILL BE ACCOMMODATED IN A SEMI-PRIVATE ROOM AT THE GENERAL WARD FEE," MRS WONG SAID.
WHILE SEMI-PRIVATE ROOMS WILL NOT DRAW PATIENTS AWAY FROM PRIVATE HOSPITALS, PATIENTS WILL BE ABLE TO COMPARE FEES BETWEEN THE TWO.
"THIS SHOULD PROVIDE SOME ELEMENT OF COMPETITION, TO MAKE BOTH SECTORS PAY MORE ATTENTION TO COST-EFFECTIVENESS AND OFFERING CONSUMERS BETTER VALUE FOR MONEY," MRS WONG SAID.
/WHILE DISAPPROVING ......
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
6
WHILE DISAPPROVING OF THE INTRODUCTION OF A COMPULSORY COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL INSURANCE SCHEME, SHE SAID THE GOVERNMENT SAW INSURANCE AS A WAY TO ENHANCE PEOPLE’S ACCESS TO PRIVATE MEDICAL SERVICES AND THEREBY GIVE THEM MORE CHOICE.
"TO PROTECT CONSUMERS, WE PROPOSE THAT THE INTRODUCTION OF ANY VOLUNTARY MEDICAL INSURANCE SCHEME AIMED AT COVERING PUBLIC SECTOR SERVICES SHOULD BE REGULATED,” SHE SAID.
REFERRING TO THE CURRENT HOSPITAL FEE STRUCTURE, MRS WONG SAID IT WAS ORIGINALLY BASED ON CATERING COST AND WAS IRRATIONAL.
PATIENTS IN ALL TYPES OF HOSPITALS PAY THE SAME FEE WHICH BEARS NO RELATIONSHIP TO THE ACTUAL COST OF TREATMENT.
”WB ARE THEREFORE PROPOSING THAT FUTURE HOSPITAL FEES SHOULD BE PEGGED TO A PERCENTAGE OF THE OPERATING COST AND THAT CERTAIN ITEMISED CHARGES SHOULD BE STANDARDISED AMONG ALL HOSPITALS,” THE SECRETARY SAID.
SHE NOTED THAT WHILE MANY PEOPLE ASKED WHY THE COMMUNITY SHOULD HEAVILY SUBSIDISE PATIENTS WHO DID NOT NEED IT, THERE WAS ALSO SOME CONCERN THAT WE MUST NOT PEG CHARGES AT A PERCENTAGE THAT THE COMMUNITY COULD NOT AFFORD.
SHE GAVE A REASSURANCE THAT THE GOVERNMENT REMAINED COMMITTED TO ITS POLICY THAT NOBODY SHOULD BE DENIED ADEQUATE MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR WANT OF MEANS, SO FEE LEVELS WOULD OBVIOUSLY NOT BECOME UNAFFORDABLE BY THE PEOPLE THEY WERE TARGETED AT.
"IT WOULD SERVE NO PURPOSE TO RAISE FEES TO UNTENABLE LEVELS, SINCE THIS WOULD BE OFFSET BY MORE PEOPLE APPLYING FOR WAIVERS," MRS WONG SAID.
ON THE CONCERN THAT PEGGING FEES TO COSTS WILL ALSO RESULT IN RAPID ESCALATION IN LINE WITH MEDICAL INFLATION, SHE POINTED OUT THAT FEES WERE ADJUSTED NOW TN LINE WITH INCREASES IN OPERATING COSTS.
"SUCH PEGGING, TOGETHER WITH DETAILED BILLING, WILL IN FACT ENABLE CONSUMERS TO BETTER MONITOR COSTS AND TO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS ON THESE TO THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY AS PART OF THE FEEDBACK PROCESS," SHE SAID.
MRS WONG STRESSED THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S OBJECTIVE WAS TO PROVIDE A HEALTH CARE SYSTEM WITH INCREASED ACCESS, MORE CHOICE AND BETTER CONSUMER PROTECTION.
"TO DO THIS, WE NEED TO MAKE IT BETTER MANAGED, MORE TRANSPARENT TO USERS, CHEAPER FOR THOSE WHO CANNOT AFFORD TO PAY AND FAIRER FOR EVERYONE," SHE SAID.
HOWEVER, THE GOVERNMENT HAS NO PRECONCEIVED IDEAS WHICH OPTIONS IN THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT SHOULD BE PURSUED.
"THE CHOICE IS UP TO THE COMMUNITY," MRS WONG SAID.
- - 0---------
/7........
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
7 -
STATEMENT ON TRIAD AND STUDENT SERVICES
*****
IN REPLY TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES ON CLAIMS OF TRIAD INFILTRATION INTO SCHOOLS AND THE PROVISION OF SERVICES SUCH AS FINDING SCHOOL PLACES FOR STUDENTS AGED 16 AND ABOVE, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID:
"THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAS ISSUED SPECIFIC GUIDELINES TO SCHOOLS ON HOW TO DEAL WITH SUSPECTED TRAID ACTIVITIES IN SCHOOLS IN ANY CASE, STUDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO REPORT TO THE POLICE IF THEY ARE THREATENED BY SUSPECTED TRAID ELEMENTS.
THE DEPARTMENT CANNOT COMMENT ON THE SPECIFIC CASE REFERRED TO SINCE IT IS THE SUBJECT OF A POLICE INVESTIGATION.
AS REGARDS SCHOOL PLACES, THE DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN AND WILL CONTINUE TO ASSIST STUDENTS IRRESPECTIVE OF AGE TO FIND APPROPRIATE PLACES FOR STUDY."
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GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT ESTIMATE FOR FIRST QUARTER
*****
CONTINUING THE SIGNIFICANT GROWTH MOMENTUM CARRIED OVER FROM LAST YEAR, HONG KONG’S GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) GREW BY 5.3% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF THIS YEAR OVER THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR.
THIS IS SHOWN IN THE PRELIMINARY GDP ESTIMATE RELEASED TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
AMONG THE MAIN COMPONENTS OF THE GDP ESTIMATES, GROSS DOMESTIC FIXED CAPITAL FORMATION GREW BY 7.2% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 OVER THE SAME QUARTER IN 1992.
WITHIN THIS COMPONENT, EXPENDITURE ON MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT SHOWED A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE OF 19.1%. EXPENDITURE ON CONSTRUCTION ALSO RECORDED A NOTABLE GROWTH OF 7.1% IN THE FIRST QUARTER.
ON THE SAME BASIS OF COMPARISON, PRIVATE CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE GREW BY 7.1% IN REAL TERMS, WHILE GOVERNMENT CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE (DEFINED IN NATIONAL ACCOUNTS TERMS) DECLINED SLIGHTLY BY 0.4%.
THE DECLINE IN GOVERNMENT CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE REFLECTS IN PART THE GOVERNMENT’S CONTINUING EFFORT IN RESTRAINING GROWTH IN THE CIVIL SERVICE, AND IN PART A DECREASE DURING THE FIRST QUARTER IN GOVERNMENT PURCHASES OF GOODS AND SERVICES SUCH AS STORES AND SUPPLIES.
REGARDING EXTERNAL TRADE IN GOODS, RE-EXPORTS GREW SUBSTANTIALLY BY 26.1% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 OVER THE SAME QUARTER TN 1992, WHILE DOMESTIC EXPORTS DECLINED BY 0.1%. THE CORRESPONDING GROWTH RATE FOR IMPORTS OF GOODS WAS 19.5%.
/AS REGARDS .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
8
AS REGARDS EXPORTS OF SERVICES, THE GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS WAS 15.2%. THE CORRESPONDING GROWTH RATE FOR IMPORTS OF SERVICES WAS 8.9%.
THE IMPLICIT PRICE DEFLATOR OF GDP, AS A BROAD MEASURE OF OVERALL INFLATION IN THE ECONOMY, ROSE BY 9.5% IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 OVER THE SAME QUARTER IN 1992, FOLLOWING AN INCREASE OF 10.2% IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1992.
ALONG WITH THE RELEASE OF THE PRELIMINARY GDP ESTIMATE FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993, GDP ESTIMATES FOR 1991 AND 1992 HAVE BEEN REVISED, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT LATEST DATA SOURCES, INCLUDING MAINLY THE RESULTS OF THE 1991 ANNUAL ECONOMIC SURVEYS AND THE 1992 SURVEY OF REEXPORT TRADE.
GENERALLY SPEAKING, THE EXTENT OF REVISION IS RELATIVELY MINOR. THE REAL GROWTH RATE OF GDP FOR 1991 IS SLIGHTLY REVISED DOWNWARDS FROM 4.2% TO 4.1%, THAT FOR 1992 IS REVISED UPWARDS FROM 5.0% TO 5.3%.
FOR THE PRODUCTION-BASED GDP, THE REVISED (AUG 93) ESTIMATE FOR 1991 SHOWS THAT, AMONG THE VARIOUS ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES, WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND IMPORT/EXPORT TRADES, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS ACCOUNTED FOR THE LARGEST SHARE (25.4%) OF GDP, FOLLOWED BY FINANCING, INSURANCE, REAL ESTATE AND BUSINESS SERVICES (22.7%), COMMUNITY, SOCIAL AND PERSONAL SERVICES (15.7%) AND MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES (15.2%).
THE LATEST ESTIMATES OF EXPENDITURE-BASED GDP FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1991 TO THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 ARE PUBLISHED IN A REPORT ENTITLED ’’QUARTERLY ESTIMATES OF GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT, 1ST QUARTER 1993” .
THE REVISED (AUGUST 93) PRODUCTION-BASED GDP ESTIMATES FOR 1991 ARE ALSO INCLUDED IN THE PUBLICATION.
THE REPORT IS NOW ON SALE AT $4.5 A COPY AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, HONG KONG; AND AT THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
ENQUIRIES MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE NATIONAL INCOME BRANCH OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT BY DIALLING 582 5077.
THE LATEST EXPENDITURE-BASED GDP FIGURES ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES 1 AND 2. THE REVISED PRODUCTION-BASED GDP FIGURES FOR 1991 ARE PRESENTED IN TABLE 3.
/TABLE 1 .....
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
- 9 -
Table 1
Expenditure-based GDP Estimates first quarter of 1991 to first quarter of 1993
GDP at Current GDP at Constant (1980}
Market Prices Market Prices
Year/quarter 1991 HK$ Mn 643,382 % change over same period of the preceding year HK$ Mn 273,524 % change over same period of the preceding year 4.1
15.1
1992 747,432 16.2 287,941' 5.3
1991 Ql 139,795 13.8 61,580 4.0
Q2 152,099 14.8 64,364 3.8
Q3 172,648 15.3 73,370 3.9
Q4 178,840 16.4 74,210 4.7
1992 Ql 164,164 17.4 64,795 5.2
Q2 176,807 16.2 67,637 5.1
Q3 199,464 15.5 77,580 5.7
Q4 206,997 15.7 77,929 5.0
1993 Ql 189,396 15.4 68,253 5.3
/TABLE 2 .......
Expenditure-based GDP Estimates < moi
Quarterly Year-on-year Growth Rates, first quarter of 1992 to first .quarter of—1993.
Table 2
Expend!t ure % change over same period of the preceding year
At current ma rket prices At constant (1980) market prices
199 n 1993 1992 1993
01 02 Ql 01 Annual 01 01 Q2 01 01 Annual 01
Private consumption expendiIure 17.3 15.3 17.2 15.6 16.3 14.6 9.0 7.9 9.4 7.7 8.5 7.1
Government consumpt ion expend!Iure 16.0 18.0 19.9 17.4 17.8 10.0 6.5 7.9 9.2 6.4 7.5 -0.4
Gross domestic fixed capital formation 14.4 18.9 19.3 13.4 16.5 10.0 7.5 10.6 11.7 9.6 9.9 7.2 i
of which : Construction 3.6 -2.7 -0.6 8.1 2.2 9.1 1.2 -5.9 -2.5 6.1 -0.1 7.1 o
Machinery and equipment 11.6 24.8 32.8 29.7 25.5 21.6 11.2 22.3 28.2 27.4 23.0 19.1 i
Total exports of goods 23.2 23.0 20.0 17.9 20.8 18.4 20.8 21.5 18.3 16.8 19.2 18.8
Imports of goods 21.6 24.4 21.9 22.2 22.6 17.7 21.9 23.9 20.7 22.9 22.3 19.5
Exports of services 15.4 22.1 15.3 19.2 18.1 22.7 10.2 13.8 7.3 10.0 10.3 15.2
Imports of services 10.0 10.6 16.0 8.9 11.4 7.0 7.7 5.6 8.3 4.2 6.4 8.9
Gross Domestic Product 17.4 16.2 15.5 15.7 16.2 15.4 5.2 5.1 5.7 5.0 5.3 5.3
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
11
Ta&*e 3 Percentage share of various economic activities in Production-based GDP estimates, 1991 ’
Revised(August 93) Estimates for 1991
share
1. Agriculture and fishing 0.2
2. Mining and quarrying £
3. Manufacturing 15.2
4. Electricity, gas and water 2.2
5. Construction 5.6
6. Wholesales, retail and import/export trades, restaurants and hotels 25.4
7. Transport, storage and communication 9.4
8. Financing, insurance, real estate and business services 22.7
9. Community, social and personal services 15.7
10. Ownership of premises 10.9
Less imputed bank service charge 7.3
100.0
# Less than 0.05
- - 0 - -
/12
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
- 12 -
MORE IMPORTED VEGETABLES CHECKED * * » ♦ »
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TODAY (MONDAY) INSPECTED 63 LORRY-LOADS OF VEGETABLES FROM CHINA AND TOOK 16 SAMPLES FOR TESTING, IN ITS CONTINUED EFFORT TO MONITOR IMPORTED FOOD PARTICULARLY VEGETABLES FROM ACROSS THE BORDER.
THE FIGURES BRING TO 239 AND 67 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF LORRY-LOADS OF VEGETABLES INSPECTED AND SAMPLES TAKEN FOR TESTING OF CONTAMINATION SINCE THE BLAST INCIDENT IN SHENZHEN.
SO FAR, ALL SAMPLES SHOWED NO EVIDENCE OF CONTAMINATION.
HOWEVER, THE DEPARTMENT WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR VEGETABLES AT BORDER CHECK POINTS, AND TO TAKE SAMPLES FOR TESTS OF CONTAMINATION ARISING FROM THE BLAST, IN PARTICULAR OF ANY POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION OF AMMONIUM NITRATES.
MEANWHILE, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT REMINDED THE PUBLIC TO ALWAYS OBSERVE GOOD HYGIENIC PRACTICES, WASH VEGETABLES THOROUGHLY AND COOK WELL BEFORE CONSUMPTION.
------0--------
NO CHANGE IN WATER QUALITY * » * ♦ »
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) ASSURED THE PUBLIC ONCE AGAIN THAT THE DEPARTMENT HAD CLOSELY MONITORED THE QUALITY OF THE EAST RIVER WATER SUPPLIED TO HONG HONG SINCE THE SHENZHEN EXPLOSION INCIDENT. •
SO FAR NO TRACE OF ANY CHANGE IN WATER QUALITY HAD BEEN DETECTED.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT REITERATED THAT THE TREATED WATER SUPPLIED TO CONSUMERS COMPLIED WITH THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION’S STANDARD GUIDELINES FOR DRINKING WATER, ADDING THAT THERE WAS NO CAUSE FOR CONCERN ABOUT ITS QUALITY.
------0--------
CONTINGENCY PLAN ON GIRLS’ HOME
* « » * »
IN SPOKESMAN ONE TIME, HOME WITH
RESPONSE TO PRESS ENQUIRIES, A SOCIAL TODAY (MONDAY) CONFIRMED THAT SINCE 1989 LESS THAN ONE PER CENT OF GIRLS IN THE VENEREAL DISEASES.
WELFARE DEPARTMENT THERE WAS, AT ANY MA TAU WEI GIRLS’
"OVER 100 TESTS ON VENEREAL CONDUCTED ON THE GIRLS THERE SINCE JULY POSITIVE RESULT," HE SAID.
DISEASES AND AIDS HAVE BEEN 15 THIS YEAR. NONE HAS A
/HE SAID .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
- 13 -
HE SAID THE DEPARTMENT HAD IN HAND A CONTINGENCY PLAN, TO BE CARRIED OUT IN PHASES, TO ACCOMMODATE GIRLS IN MA TAU WEI GIRLS’ HOME TO COPE WITH THE OVER-CAPACITY PROBLEM.
"PUI YIN JUVENILE HOME IS BEING CONSIDERED BECAUSE IT IS ALSO A GAZETTED PLACE OF REFUGE AND WITHIN THE VICINITY OF THE GIRLS’ HOME,’’ HE SAID.
HE ADDED THAT PUI YIN JUVENILE HOME WAS PREVIOUSLY A MIXED HOME WITH SEPARATE FACILITIES FOR BOTH BOYS AND GIRLS BEFORE THE OPENING OF THE WAI YEE HOSTEL IN NOVEMBER 1991.
THE SPOKESMAN CONFIRMED THAT UNDER PHASE ONE OF THE CONTINGENCY PLAN PUI YIN JUVENILE HOME COULD ACCOMMODATE 30 TO 40 GIRLS WITH FURTHER FACILITIES FOR EXPANSION, IF REQUIRED.
HE SAID THE HIGHEST FIGURE OF GIRLS AT MA TAU WEI GIRLS’ HOME RECORDED TODAY (MONDAY) WAS 230. THE HOME NOW HAS A CAPACITY OF 220, SINCE THE MOVE OF THE PROBATION SECTION TO ANOTHER INSTITUTION LAST WEDNESDAY.
---------0-----------
PROSECUTION AGAINST USING FALSE DOCUMENTS
* * » ♦ *
PEOPLE WHO SUBMIT FALSE DOCUMENTS TO SUPPORT THEIR APPLICATIONS FOR REGISTRATION AS AN ELECTRICAL WORKER UNDER THE ELECTRICITY ORDINANCE ARE LIABLE TO PROSECUTION, AN ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT (EMSD) SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
A 22-YEAR-OLD MAN WAS RECENTLY CONVICTED IN EASTERN COURT FOR USING A COPY OF A FALSE INSTRUMENT IN HIS APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION.
THE DEFENDANT PLEADED GUILTY AND WAS FINED $1,000.
THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT EMSD WOULD SCRUTINISE ALL APPLICATIONS, ESPECIALLY SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS SUBMITTED ALONG WITH THE APPLICATIONS.
’’PROSECUTION WILL BE TAKEN AGAINST THOSE APPLICANTS WHO KNOWINGLY MAKE A STATEMENT WHICH IS FALSE IN A MATERIAL PARTICULAR,” HE SAID.
UNDER THE ELECTRICITY ORDINANCE, ALL WORKERS ENGAGED IN WORK ON FIXED ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION ARE REQUIRED TO BE REGISTERED WITH EMSD.
- - 0 - -
/14 .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
14 COURSES ON COMMUNICATION WITH TRADE UNIONS ♦ » * * * * *
TWO LABOUR RELATIONS COURSES WILL BE RUN BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT IN SEPTEMBER AND NOVEMBER TO PROMOTE BETTER COMMUNICATION BETWEEN MANAGERS AND TRADE UNION OFFICIALS.
THE TWO COURSES, EACH COMPRISING SEVEN SESSIONS TO BE HELD IN AFTERNOONS ON TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS, ARE DESIGNED FOR MANAGERS, ESPECIALLY THOSE ENGAGED IN PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT OR STAFF DISCIPLINE.
ENTITLED "GETTING TO KNOW TRADE UNIONS AND HOW TO DEAL WITH TRADE UNION OFFICIALS", THE COURSES WILL HELP MANAGERS GET AN INSIGHT INTO THE LEGAL STATUS AND THE ROLE OF TRADE UNIONS.
OTHER TOPICS INCLUDE MANPOWER CHARACTERISTICS IN HONG KONG, CULTURAL AND GROUP NORMS AMONG WORKERS AS WELL AS THEIR ATTITUDE TOWARDS WORK, EMPLOYERS AND CONFLICT OF INTERESTS.
THERE WILL BE TALKS ON THE ART OF COMPROMISE, NEGOTIATION SKILLS, CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND TRADE DISPUTES. VISITS TO TRADE UNIONS WILL ALSO BE ARRANGED.
THE SPEAKER WILL BE MR CHEUNG LUN, SECRETARY OF THE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON CEMENT AND CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION TRADE WORKERS’ UNION AND MEMBER OF THE LABOUR ADVISORY BOARD.
THE COURSES, WITH THE FIRST CLASS STARTING ON SEPTEMBER 3, WILL BE CONDUCTED IN CANTONESE. THE ENROLMENT FEE IS $350.
EACH CLASS WILL HAVE 25 PLACES. ENROLMENT IS ON FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED.
DETAILS OF THE COURSES AND ENROLMENT LEAFLETS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE LABOUR RELATIONS PROMOTION UNIT OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ON 16TH FLOOR OF OVERSEAS TRUST BANK BUILDING, 160 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI AND FROM ALL LABOUR RELATIONS BRANCH OFFICES.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 834 9311.
------0-------
ENVIRONMENT ANNUAL REPORT ON SALE **»♦*»
THE GOVERNMENT’S ACHIEVEMENTS AND PROGRESS MADE IN MEETING THE INITIATIVES SET OUT IN THE 1989 WHITE PAPER ON POLLUTION WERE OUTLINED IN AN ANNUAL REPORT PUBLISHED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT.
"ENVIRONMENT HONG KONG 1993" PROVIDES A COMPREHENSIVE ACCOUNT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION WORK IN THE TERRITORY AND IS NOW ON SALE.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID: "THE REPORT IS AN ESSENTIAL REFERENCE FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO KNOW WHAT’S HAPPENING ON POLLUTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL IN HONG KONG."
/APART FROM .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
- 15
APART EROM REVIEWING THE WIDE RANGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMMES CARRIED OUT BY THE DEPARTMENT LAST YEAR, THE 184-PAGE REPORT CONTAINS 82 DIAGRAMS, 24 TABLES OF TECHNICAL INFORMATION AND 122 PICTURES TO ILLUSTRATE THE ENVIRONMENTAL SITUATION.
"AS EVENTS AT LAST YEAR’S EARTH SUMMIT ARE HAVING THEIR IMPACT ON DEVELOPMENTS IN HONG KONG, 1992 SAW PROGRESS IN IMPLEMENTING EXISTING PLANS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND MEASURES TO CONTROL POLLUTION.
"PROGRESS WAS ALSO MADE IN SETTING THE SCENE FOR A BROADER APPROACH TO BE TAKEN TO ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES IN THE FUTURE," HE SAID.
THE REPORT RECORDS THE GOVERNMENT’S ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE YEAR IN PROVIDING A BETTER ENVIRONMENT FOR THE PUBLIC.
THESE INCLUDE THE COMPLETION OF $700 MILLION WORTH OF NEW SEWERAGE WORK, NEW ARRANGEMENT FOR THE DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE AND THE BEGINNING OF ADVANCE WORKS ON THREE STRATEGIC LANDFILLS.
THE ISLAND EAST REFUSE TRANSFER STATION WAS COMMISSIONED. MAJOR CONSTRUCTION WORK OF THE CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT CENTRE WAS COMPLETED. CHEMICAL WASTE REGULATIONS WERE IMPLEMENTED IN PHASES.
THE YEAR ALSO SAW THE INTRODUCTION OF NEW REGULATIONS TO CONTROL NOISY CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AS WELL AS PETROL AND LIGHT-DUTY DIESEL-ENGINED VEHICLES.
MAJOR NEW LEGISLATION TO CONTROL ASBESTOS AND OZONE-DEPLETING SUBSTANCES WAS ALSO FINALISED.
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT OFFICE FOR WEST KOWLOON WAS SET UP TO MONITOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS GENERATED BY MAJOR PROJECTS IN THE AREA.
MEANWHILE, A NEW COMMUNITY RELATIONS UNIT DEDICATED TO PUBLIC EDUCATION WAS ESTABLISHED TO IMPROVE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS WITH A VIEW TO HARNESSING THE CONTRIBUTION THE PUBLIC CAN MAKE TO IMPROVING THE ENVIRONMENT.
THE ENGLISH VERSION OF "ENVIRONMENT HONG KONG 1993", AT $30 A COPY, IS AVAILABLE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL.
THE CHINESE VERSION OF THE REPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE NEXT MONTH.
/NOTE TO .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
16
NOTE TO EDITORS:
FURTHER ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE OF THE FOLLOWING OFFICERS:
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT
ELVIS AU TEL 835 1102
SHIRLEY LEE TEL 835 1106
AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT
FRANKLIN CHUNG TEL 594 6200
NOISE
SAM WONG TEL 594 6565
WATER
K F TANG TEL 835 1234
WASTE
DANIEL LAU TEL 835 1216
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND AWARENESS
EDWARD LAM TEL 835 1848
------0-------
PAMPHLET ON WEATHER WARNINGS PUBLISHED » t * » *
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (MONDAY) PUBLISHED A PAMPHLET ON WEATHER WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN IN TIMES OF SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS.
THE PAMPHLET EXPLAINS IN DETAIL THE MEANING OF VARIOUS WARNING SIGNALS ISSUED BY THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY AND COVERS TROPICAL CYCLONES, RAINSTORMS, LANDSLIPS, FLOODS AND THUNDERSTORMS.
IT ALSO ADVISES THE GENERAL PUBLIC WHAT MEASURES SHOULD BE TAKEN TO PROTECT THEIR OWN SAFETY. SPECIFIC ADVICE IS GIVEN TO CERTAIN TRADES ON HOW TO MINIMISE POSSIBLE LOSSES WHEN HONG KONG IS THREATENED BY SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS COULD RESULT IN CASUALTIES AND CAUSE DISRUPTION TO TRANSPORT AND OTHER ESSENTIAL SERVICES.
’’THEREFORE IT IS IMPORTANT FOR THE PUBLIC TO FAMILIARISE THEMSELVES WITH THESE WEATHER WARNINGS AND KNOW WHAT STEPS TO TAKE TO PROTECT THEMSELVES.”
/"THE PAMPHLET
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
- 17 -
"THE PAMPHLET IS ALSO USEFUL TO EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES IN THEIR DISCUSSION ON WORK ARRANGEMENTS IN TIMES OF SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS, AS IT CLEARS ALL MISCONCEPTIONS AND MISUNDERSTANDING ABOUT WARNING SIGNALS," HE SAID.
THE PAMPHLET IS AVAILABLE IN BOTH CHINESE AND ENGLISH. BOTH VERSIONS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY COUNTERS AT VARIOUS DISTRICT OFFICES.
------0--------
WATER STORAGE FIGURE » ♦ » ♦ »
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 75.3 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 441.544 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 503.455 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 85.9 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
--------0-----------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,600
REVERSAL OF LAF +400
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -110
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,890
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.2 *4-0.0* 9.8.93
/HONG KONG .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 9, 1993
18
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.77 PCT 12 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.59 3.82
1 MONTH 2.86 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.85 3.97
3 MONTHS 3.15 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.85 4.21
6 MONTHS 3.39 PCT 21 12 MONTHS 3.77 PCT MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.85 4.48
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 28,211 MN
CLOSED AUGUST 9, 199.3
------0----------
Received by PRO on_____11 2 AUG 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
CONTEXTS
PAGE NO.
9,687 SECONDARY 6 PLACES STILL AVAILABLE ........................ 1
ED HANDLES STUDENTS KITH HKCEE ENQUIRIES ........................ 1
INMATES DO WELL IN SCHOOL CERTIFICATE FXA'I ..................... 2
SPECIAL LEVY TO BE SUSPENDED .................................... 2
LOAN SCHEME FOR EMPLOYEES INJURED OR DIED AT WORK ............... 3
VOLUME AND PRICE MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAI TRADE TV 'LAY ............ 4
IMPORTED FOOD SAFE FOR CONSUMPTION .............................. 8
DISTRICT COURT JUDGE & PRINCIPAL MAGISTRATE APPOINTED ........... 9
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES SOUGHT ....................... 9
FARM ROAD INOCULATION CENTRE ON MOVE ........................... 10
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS .............. 10
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONET MARKET OPERATIONS ..
11
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
9,687 SECONDARY 6 PLACES STILL AVAILABLE * * * * *
STAGE I OF THE SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE, WHICH ENDED AT 3.30 PM TODAY, RESULTED IN 13,513 SECONDARY 5 LEAVERS BEING SUCCESSFUL IN ACQUIRING SECONDARY 6 PLACES.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID THERE WILL STILL BE 9,687 SECONDARY 6 PLACES AVAILABLE FOR STAGE II DUE TO BEGIN TOMORROW.
HE SAID A LIST OF SCHOOLS WITH VACANCIES WOULD BE DISPLAYED AT ALL DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICES FROM 9 AM TOMORROW.
HE REMINDED STUDENTS WITH 14 POINTS OR MORE WISHING TO APPLY FOR SECONDARY 6 PLACES TN THESE SCHOOLS TO DO SO FROM 9 AM TO 3.30 PM TOMORROW.
ON DAY THREE (THURSDAY), THE NAMES OF SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS WILL BE POSTED AT THE SCHOOLS FROM 9 AM AND THOSE ON THE LIST SHOULD REGISTER WITH ONLY ONE SCHOOL BEFORE 3.30 PM ON THE SAME DAY.
MEANWHILE, THE DEPARTMENT’S 24-HOUR AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE ENQUIRY SERVICE SERVED MORE THAN 1,400 CALLERS ON MONDAY - ONE DAY BEFORE THE START OF STAGE I OF THE SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE.
THE NUMBER OF CALLERS SEEKING INFORMATION ON TOMORROW’S STAGE II PROCEDURE TOTALLED 1,019 AT 5 PM TODAY.
------0-----------
ED HANDLES STUDENTS WITH HKCEE ENQUIRIES *****
UP TO 5.30 PM TODAY (TUESDAY), THE CAREERS AND GUIDANCE SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAD RECEIVED 413 VISITORS AND HANDLED 349 TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES ON MATTERS RELATED TO THE RELEASE OF THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION RESULTS, AN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE CAREERS EDUCATION CENTRE AT ROOM 206 OF THE MONG KOK GOVERNMENT OFFICES AT 30 LUEN WAN STREET, MONG KOK, PROVIDES STUDENTS WITH MATERIALS ON OPPORTUNITIES FOR FURTHER STUDIES AND TRAINING, AND INFORMATION ON VARIOUS PROFESSIONS.
THE CENTRE WILL EXTEND ITS OPENING HOURS WITHOUT A BREAK FROM 8.45 AM TO 5.30 PM UNTIL FRIDAY (AUGUST 13).
- - 0----------
/2.........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
- 2 -
INMATES DO WELL IN SCHOOL CERTIFICATE EXAM
*****
HARD WORK PAYS OFF FOR 35 INMATES FROM SIX CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS WHO HAVE OBTAINED FAIRY GOOD RESULTS IN THIS YEAR’S HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION (HKCEE).
THE INMATES, AGED BETWEEN 18 AND 37, TOOK 118 PAPERS IN EIGHT SUBJECTS WITH A PASS RATE OF 81.35 PER CENT.
A TOTAL OF ONE DISTINCTION, 20 CREDITS AND 75 PASSES WERE OBTAINED. THEY PERFORMED BEST IN THE SUBJECT OF PRINCIPLES OF ACCOUNTS AND DID WELL IN CHINESE, ENGLISH, MATHEMATICS, COMMERCE, ECONOMICS, GEOGRAPHY AND HISTORY.
MOST OF THEM ARE FROM PIK UK CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION. ONE FEMALE INMATE IS FROM THE TAI LAM CENTRE FOR WOMEN AND THE REST FROM STANLEY PRISON, CAPE COLLINSON CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION, LAI KING TRAINING CENTRE AND SHEK PIK PRISON.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT SAID: "IT IS ALWAYS THE DEPARTMENT’S POLICY TO ENCOURAGE AND TO ASSIST INMATES SITTING FOR THE HKCEE AND OTHER PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS."
"SINCE 1985, SOME 186 INMATES HAVE BEEN ARRANGED TO SIT FOR THE HKCEE AND THE PASS RATE IS ALWAYS ENCOURAGING ALTHOUGH IT VARIES EVERY YEAR. HOWEVER, THE NUMBER OF INMATES WHO SAT FOR THIS YEAR’S HKCEE IS A RECORD HIGH," HE ADDED.
--------0-----------
SPECIAL LEVY TO BE SUSPENDED » » » » «
THE SPECIAL LEVY WILL BE SUSPENDED AFTER CLOSE OF TRADING OF THE STOCK AND FUTURES MARKET THIS FRIDAY (AUGUST 13), THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES MR MICHAEL CARTLAND ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY).
THE SPECIAL LEVY WAS INTRODUCED IN 1987 AFTER THE MARKET CRASH TO REPAY PART OF THE LIFEBOAT LOAN MADE TO ENABLE THE HONG KONG FUTURES GUARANTEE CORPORATION TO MEET ITS OBLIGATIONS.
THE LOAN IS ALSO REPAID BY RECOVERIES FROM THOSE WHO DEFAULTED IN THE INDEX FUTURES MARKET AT THE TIME OF THE CRASH, IN PARTICULAR FROM A MAJOR DEFAULTER WHO HAD ENTERED INTO A SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT PROVIDING FOR QUARTERLY REPAYMENTS UP TO FEBRUARY 1996.
THE EXCHANGES (SPECIAL LEVY) ORDINANCE WAS AMENDED IN JULY THIS YEAR TO EMPOWER THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES TO REDUCE OR SUSPEND THE SPECIAL LEVY WHEN THE PORTION OF THE LOAN TO BE RECOVERED FROM SPECIAL LEVY PROCEEDS HAS BEEN FULLY REPAID AND AFTER PROVISIONS ARE MADE FOR THE INTEREST AND OTHER COSTS ON THE REMAINING LOAN BALANCE.
/“DUE TO .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
- 3 -
"DUE TO THE ROBUST TURNOVER IN THE PAST FEW TRADING DAYS, WE ARE QUICKLY MOVING TOWARDS THE CIRCUMSTANCES CALLING FOR A SUSPENSION OF THE SPECIAL LEVY.
"THE CURRENT FORECAST SHOWS THAT AFTER A FEW TRADING DAYS, THE SPECIAL LEVY WILL HAVE COME TO THE END OF ITS USEFUL LIFE," MR CARTLAND SAID.
THE EXISTING RATE OF THE SPECIAL LEVY IS 0.03% FOR EACH SALE OR PURCHASE OF SECURITIES RECORDED ON THE STOCK EXCHANGE OF HONG KONG LTD AND $5 PER LEVIABLE TRANSACTION IN THE INDEX MARKETS OF THE HONG KONG FUTURES EXCHANGE LTD.
THESE WILL CEASE TO BE PAYABLE AFTER THE CLOSE OF TRADING IN THE TWO EXCHANGES THIS FRIDAY, ON WHICH DAY A SUSPENSION ORDER TO THIS EFFECT MADE BY THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES WILL BE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE. THE OUTSTANDING LOAN WILL THEN BE REPAID BY RECOVERIES FROM DEFAULTERS.
"THE SUSPENSION IS REQUIRED TO AVOID A SUBSTANTIAL AND UNNECESSARY SURPLUS UPON THE FULL REPAYMENT OF THE LIFEBOAT LOAN IF THE SPECIAL LEVY IS MAINTAINED," MR CARTLAND SAID.
"THE SUSPENSION OF SPECIAL LEVY CLEARS UP THE LAST OUTSTANDING ISSUE LEFT OVER FROM THE 1987 MARKET CRASH WHICH CAN FINALLY BE REGARDED AS A MATTER OF HISTORY," MR CARTLAND ADDED.
------0-------
LOAN SCHEME FOR EMPLOYEES INJURED OR DIED AT WORK *****
A SCHEME TO PROVIDE INTEREST-FREE LOANS NOT EXCEEDING $15,000 IN EACH CASE TO EMPLOYEES INJURED AT WORK AND DEPENDANTS OF EMPLOYEES WHO DIE AS A RESULT OF WORK-RELATED ACCIDENTS HAS NOW COME INTO OPERATION.
THE LOAN SCHEME, WHICH IS FUNDED BY A GOVERNMENT ALLOCATION OF $10 MILLION AND ADMINISTERED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT, AIMS AT PROVIDING TEMPORARY RELIEF FOR VICTIMS OF WORK-RELATED ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DEPENDANTS, A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY {TUESDAY).
UNDER THE EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION ORDINANCE, EMPLOYEES INJURED AT WORK AND DEPENDANTS OF DECEASED EMPLOYEES ARE ENTITLED TO RECEIVE COMPENSATION FROM THE EMPLOYERS, HE SAID.
HOWEVER, THIS GROUP OF PEOPLE MAY FACE FINANCIAL HARDSHIP WHILE THEY ARE WAITING FOR PAYMENT OF COMPENSATION.
TO APPLY FOR THE LOAN, AN INJURED EMPLOYEE OR A DEPENDANT OF A DECEASED EMPLOYEE SHOULD APPROACH THE RESPECTIVE BRANCH OFFICE OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION DIVISION (ECD) WITHIN FOUR MONTHS OF THE EMPLOYER’S REFUSAL TO PAY PERIODICAL PAYMENT OR OF THE DEATH OF THE EMPLOYEE, AS THE CASE MIGHT BE, THE SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED.
/THE APPLICANTS
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
4
THE APPLICANTS ARE REQUIRED TO PRODUCE EVIDENCE TO SUBSTANTIATE THAT THE ACCIDENT CAUSING INJURY OR DEATH IS ONE ARISING OUT OF AND IN THE COURSE OF EMPLOYMENT, HE SAID.
FOR A NON-FATAL CASE, THE INJURED EMPLOYEE SHOULD HAVE ALSO BEEN OWED PERIODICAL PAYMENTS FOR TWO MONTHS' SICK LEAVE OR ABOVE BY HIS EMPLOYER, HE ADDED.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE LOAN, ONCE APPROVED, WILL BE CREDITED TO A BANK ACCOUNT DESIGNATED BY THE APPLICANT.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE LOAN SCHEME CAN BE MADE AT THE ECD BRANCH OFFICES OR ON TEL 733 2338.
---------0-----------
VOLUME AND PRICE MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE IN MAY
*****
IN THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993, THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS DECREASED BY 1.6% AS COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR, WHILE THAT OF RE-EXPORTS RECORDED A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE OF 24%, ACCORDING TO THE STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (TUESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
TAKING DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS TOGETHER, THE VOLUME OF TOTAL EXPORTS INCREASED BY 19%. IMPORTS INCREASED BY 18% IN VOLUME.
THE GROWTH TN THE VOLUME OF TRADE IS DERIVED FROM THE GROWTH IN TRADE VALUES WITH THE EFFECT OF PRICE CHANGES BEING DISCOUNTED.
AS REGARDS PRICE CHANGES OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE ABOUT THE SAME WHILE THOSE OF REEXPORTS DECREASED BY 0.5%. IMPORT PRICES DECREASED BY 1.0%.
PRICE CHANGES ARE REFLECTED BY CHANGES IN UNIT VALUE INDICES, WHICH ARE COMPILED BASED ON AVERAGE UNIT VALUES OR, FOR CERTAIN COMMODITIES, BASED ON SPECIFIC PRICE DATA.
THE TERMS OF TRADE INDEX, DEFINED AS THE RATIO OF TOTAL EXPORT PRICE INDEX TO IMPORT PRICE INDEX, INCREASED SLIGHTLY BY 0.6% IN THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993 AS COMPARED WITH SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
TAKING MAY 1993 ALONE AND COMPARING WITH MAY 1992, THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS DECREASED BY 6.4% WHILE THAT OF RE-EXPORTS INCREASED BY 17%. THE VOLUME OF TOTAL EXPORTS INCREASED BY 12%. THE VOLUME OF IMPORTS GREW BY 12%.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF IMPORTS DECREASED BY 0.3%. THOSE OF RE-EXPORTS AND DOMESTIC EXPORTS REMAINED UNCHANGED.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY PRINCIPAL COMMODITY GROUP ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 1.
/COMPARING MAY .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
- 5
COMPARING MAY 1993 WITH MAY 1992, SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE IN THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WAS RECORDED FOR ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS (+11%).
ON THE OTHER HAND, CONSIDERABLE DECREASES IN THE VOLUME OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE RECORDED FOR RADIOS OF ALL KINDS (-44%); TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND RELATED ARTICLES (-30%); TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR ARTICLES (-27%); WATCHES AND CLOCKS (-26%); AND TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD (-25%).
AS REGARDS DOMESTIC EXPORT PRICES, THE PRICE OF FOOTWEAR RECORDED A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE OF 6.8%.
ON THE OTHER HAND, DECREASES IN DOMESTIC EXPORT PRICES WERE RECORDED FOR RADIOS OF ALL KINDS (-8.8%); AND TEXTILE FABRICS (-6.4%).
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF IMPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 2.
THE IMPORT VOLUME OF FOODSTUFFS INCREASED BY 2.0% IN MAY 1993 AS COMPARED WITH MAY 1992.
CONSIDERABLE DECREASES WERE RECORDED FOR THE IMPORT VOLUME OF RICE; LIVE POULTRY; AND ANIMALS OF THE BOVINE SPECIES. ON THE OTHER HAND, CONSIDERABLE INCREASE WAS RECORDED IN THE IMPORT VOLUME OF VEGETABLES.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE IMPORT VOLUME OF CONSUMER GOODS INCREASED BY 20%.
COMMODITY ITEMS WITH CONSIDERABLE INCREASES IN IMPORT VOLUME INCLUDED PASSENGER MOTOR CARS; AND ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES. HOWEVER, DECREASE IN IMPORT VOLUME WAS NOTED FOR TOBACCO MANUFACTURES.
THE IMPORT VOLUME OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES SHOWED LITTLE CHANGES IN MAY 1993 AS COMPARED WITH MAY 1992.
SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN IMPORT VOLUME WERE NOTED FOR IRON AND STEEL; WOOD, LUMBER AND CORK; AND CLAY AND REFRACTORY CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS, BUILDING MATERIALS, ETC, EXCEPT GLASS.
HOWEVER, CONSIDERABLE DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE IMPORT VOLUME OF YARN OF WOOL AND MIXTURES; AND RAW COTTON.
IMPORTS OF FUELS DECREASED BY 27% IN VOLUME IN MAY 1993 AS COMPARED WITH MAY 1992.
AS REGARDS CAPITAL GOODS, THE IMPORT VOLUME INCREASED BY 28%. NOTABLE INCREASES WERE RECORDED FOR THE IMPORT VOLUME OF CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY; AND TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT.
COMPARING MAY 1993 WITH MAY 1992, THE IMPORT PRICES OF FUELS AND CAPITAL GOODS INCREASED BY 2.7% AND 4.8% RESPECTIVELY.
THE IMPORT PRICES OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES DECREASED BY 2.9%. THOSE OF FOODSTUFFS AND CONSUMER GOODS DECREASED MARGINALLY BY 0.5% AND 0.4% RESPECTIVELY.
/THE CHANGES ......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
- 6 -
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE, UNIT VALUE AND VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 3.
COMPARING MAY 1993 WITH MAY 1992, THE VOLUME OF RE-EXPORTS OF FUELS AND CAPITAL GOODS GREW SUBSTANTIALLY BY 91% AND 35% RESPECTIVELY. THAT OF CONSUMER GOODS; RAW MATERIALS AND SEMIMANUFACTURES; AND FOODSTUFFS REGISTERED INCREASES OF 18%, 7% AND 4% RESPECTIVELY.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE PRICES OF RE-EXPORTS OF CAPITAL GOODS; FUELS AND CONSUMER GOODS INCREASED BY 2.7%, 2.5% AND 1.0% RESPECTIVELY.
ON THE OTHER HAND, THE RE-EXPORT PRICES OF RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES; AND FOODSTUFFS DECREASED BY 3.4% AND 1.0% RESPECTIVELY.
DETAILS OF THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE PUBLISHED IN THE MAY 1993 ISSUE OF THE ’’HONG KONG TRADE INDEX NUMBERS”.
THE REPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE ON SALE AROUND AUGUST 12 AT HK$8.5 A COPY AT EITHER THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL; OR THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON THE 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
ENQUIRIES REGARDING REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION TO THIS REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG (TEL. NO.: 842 8802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE INDICES TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL 582 4918).
TABLE 1 : CHANGES IN DOMESTIC
EXPORTS BY PRINCIPAL COMMODITY GROUP
COMPARING MAY 1993
WITH MAY 1992
COMPARING WITH
JAN-MAY 1993
JAN-MAY 1992
COMMODITY GROUP
VALUE %
UNIT
VALUE VOLUME
VALUE %
UNIT VALUE VOLUME
%
%
%
%
CLOTHING -7.4 1.8 -9.0 -8.1 2.4 -10.2
TEXTILE FABRICS -11.3 -6.4 -5.3 0.7 -3.1 3.9
TEXTILE YARN AND THREAD -28.6 -4.7 -25.0 -9.1 -5.8 -3.5
TEXTILE MADE-UPS AND
RELATED ARTICLES -30.2 0.4 -30.4 -27.5 1 .6 -28.5
RADIOS OF ALL KINDS -48.9 -8.8 -44.0 -23.6 -9.2 -15.8
/ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS 9.8 -0.9 10.8 19.2 -2.1 21.7
FOOTWEAR -19.8 6.8 -24.8 -38.7 6.9 -42.7
METAL MANUFACTURES -1 .7 -1.9 0.2 2.2 -3.0 5.4
METAL ORES AND SCRAP -17.6 -1.5 -16.2 6.4 -2.9 9.7
WATCHES AND CLOCKS -24.2 2.1 -25.8 -12.6 0.5 -13.0
TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR ARTICLES -29.0 -2.6 -27.0 -29.4 -2.4 -27.7
DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES -20.9 -3.7 -17.9 -21.9 -3.6 -18.9
ALL COMMODITIES -6.5 * -6.4 -1.3 0.2 -1.6
♦ LESS THAN 0.05%
TABLE 2 : CHANGES IN IMPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY
COMPARING MAY WITH MAY 1993 1992 COMPARING WITH JAN-MAY JAN-MAY 1993 1992
END-USE CATEGORY VALUE % UNIT VALUE VOLUME % % VALUE % UNIT VALUE VOLUME % %
FOODSTUFFS 1 .5 -0.5 2.0 i bO cn 1 -0.4 -2.1
CONSUMER GOODS 19.6 -0.4 20.2 19.8 -0.5 20.3
RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES -2.9 -2.9 -0.1 7.3 -3.7 11.5
FUELS -24.9 2.7 - 26.8 20.4 4.5 15.2
CAPITAL GOODS 34.4 4.8 28.2 34.8 3.3 30.5
ALL COMMODITIES 11.3 -0.3 11.7 16.6 -1.0 17.8
/TABLE 3 : .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
- 8 -
TABLE 3 : CHANGES IN RE-EXPORTS BY END-USE CATEGORY
COMPARING MAY 1993 WITH MAY 1992 COMPARING JAN-MAY WITH JAN-MAY 1993 1992
END-USE CATEGORY VALUE UNIT VALUE VOLUME VALUE UNIT VALUE VOLUME
% % % % % %
FOODSTUFFS 3.1 -1.0 4. 1 -2.9 -1.5 -1.3
CONSUMER GOODS 18.8 1.0 17.6 22.0 0.3 21.5
RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURES 3.4 -3.4 6.9 14.3 -3.5 18.4
FUELS 95.5 2.5 90.7 57.2 1.7 54.5
CAPITAL GOODS 39.0 2.7 35.3 49.1 2.0 46.1
ALL COMMODITIES 17. 1 * 17. 1 23.4 -0.5 24.1
* LESS THAN 0.05%
------0-------------
IMPORTED FOOD SAFE FOR CONSUMPTION
*****
ALL SAMPLES OF VEGETABLES COMING FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF THE BORDER SINCE THE BLAST INCIDENT IN SHENZHEN HAVE SO FAR SHOWN NO EVIDENCE OF CONTAMINATION, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).
THE DEPARTMENT HAS STEPPED UP MONITORING OF' FOOD, INCLUDING VEGETABLES, AT BORDER CHECK POINTS SINCE THE INCIDENT AND SO FAR 299 LORRY-LOADS OF VEGETABLES HAVE BEEN INSPECTED AND 87 SAMPLES TAKEN FOR TESTING.
OF THESE, 60 INSPECTIONS WERE CONDUCTED TODAY WITH 20 VEGETABLE SAMPLES TAKEN.
AS THERE IS NO EVIDENCE OF CONTAMINATION RESULTING FROM THE BLAST, THE PUBLIC SHOULD NOT BE UNDULY WORRIED ABOUT THE IMPORTED VEGETABLES AS LONG AS THEY OBSERVE GOOD HYGIENIC PRACTICE BY WASHING THE VEGETABLES THOROUGHLY AND COOK THEM WELL BEFORE CONSUMPTION, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
- - 0 - -
/9 .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
9 -
DISTRICT COURT JUDGE & PRINCIPAL MAGISTRATE APPOINTED
*****
THE JUDICIARY TODAY (TUESDAY) ANNOUNCED THE APPOINTMENTS OF A DISTRICT COURT JUDGE AND A PRINCIPAL MAGISTRATE.
MR BRIAN DE SOUZA WAS APPOINTED A DISTRICT COURT JUDGE WITH EFFECT FROM TODAY.
MR DE SOUZA WAS BORN IN HONG KONG IN 1948.
HE WAS EDUCATED AT ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE AND HONG KONG UNIVERSITY WHERE HE OBTAINED A LLB DEGREE IN 1972.
HE WAS CALLED TO THE BAR IN ENGLAND IN 1975, IN HONG KONG IN 1977 AND IN THE STATE OF VICTORIA IN 1985.
HE WORKED IN PRIVATE PRACTICE IN HONG KONG UNTIL HIS APPOINTMENT AS MAGISTRATE IN OCTOBER 1985. HE WAS APPOINTED PRINCIPAL MAGISTRATE IN APRIL THIS YEAR.
THE APPOINTMENT OF MR ANTHONY TO KWAI-FUNG AS A PRINCIPAL MAGISTRATE TOOK EFFECT FROM TODAY.
MR TO WAS BORN IN 1946 IN HONG KONG.
IN 1969 HE OBTAINED A B.SC AT HONG KONG UNIVERSITY, IN 1978 A LLB AND IN 1979 HE PASSED THE PCLL.
HE WAS ADMITTED AS A SOLICITOR IN HONG KONG IN 1981 AND IN ENGLAND IN 1984. HE OBTAINED THE DEGREE OF LLM FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG IN 1988.
AFTER QUALIFYING AS A SOLICITOR, HE JOINED THE LEGAL DEPARTMENT IN 1981 AS CROWN COUNSEL. HE WAS PROMOTED TO SENIOR CROWN COUNSEL IN 1987, IN WHICH YEAR HE WAS APPOINTED MAGISTRATE AND IN 1988 PRESIDING OFFICER OF THE LABOUR TRIBUNAL.
- - 0-------
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES SOUGHT *****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE A NUMBER OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES ON HONG KONG ISLAND SO THAT THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND THE PUBLIC.
SIXTEEN OF THE STRUCTURES ARE LOCATED ON A REAR LANE AT 2-52 MARBLE ROAD, NORTH POINT. THEY ARE MAINLY USED FOR STORAGE.
NOTICES WERE POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY (TUESDAY) STATING THAT CLOSURE ORDERS WILL BE APPLIED FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON SEPTEMBER 14.
/MEANWHILE, A ........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
- 10 -
MEANWHILE, A SIMILAR NOTICE WAS ALSO POSTED ON AN UNAUTHORISED SINGLE-STOREY STRUCTURE USED FOR DWELLING PURPOSES ON THE ROOF OF 64-70 STONE NULLAH LANE IN WAN CHAI.
DEMOLITION OF THE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES WILL START AS SOON AS THE CLOSURE ORDERS ARE ISSUED.
--------0------------
FARM ROAD INOCULATION CENTRE ON MOVE * * * * *
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ANNOUNCED TODAY (TUESDAY) THAT THE FARM ROAD INOCULATION CENTRE FOR SCHOOL CHILDREN IN TO KWA WAN WILL MOVE TO TSIM SHA TSUI ON AUGUST 17 (TUESDAY).
THE NEW ADDRESS IS 13TH FLOOR, GOLDEN GATE COMMERCIAL BUILDING, 136-138 AUSTIN ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI, KOWLOON.
THE NEW TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR ENQUIRY IS 314 7630.
DURING THE DAY OF MOVE ON AUGUST 16 (MONDAY), SCHOOL CHILDREN MAY GO TO THE KOWLOON REGIONAL HEALTH OFFICE ON THE 14TH FLOOR OF GOLDEN GATE COMMERCIAL BUILDING, OR NEARBY GENERAL OUT-PATIENT CLINIC, FOR INOCULATION, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID.
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS *****
TENDER DATE 10 AUGUST 93 10 AUGUST 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q332 Y392
AMOUNT APPLIED HKD4,020 MN HKD2,460 MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HKD1,000 MN HKD300 MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 3.15 PCT 3.76 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 3.15 PCT 3.77 PCT
PRO RATA RATIO ABOUT 73 PCT ABOUT 50 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 3.18 PCT 3.82 PCT
/HONG KONG........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 1993
11
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 16 AUGUST 1993 -
TENDER DATE 17 AUGUST 93 17 AUGUST 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q333 H371
ISSUE DATE 18 AUGUST 93 18 AUGUST 93
MATURITY DATE 17 NOVEMBER 93 16 FEBRUARY 94
TENOR 91 DAYS 182 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HKD1,000 + 200 MN HKD400 + 80 MN
0
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
*****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,890
REVERSAL OF LAF + 110
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -500
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,500
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.3 ♦+0.1* 10 .8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.86 PCT 12 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.66 3.74
1 MONTH 2.85 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.92 3.91
3 MONTHS 3.12 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.96 4.13
6 MONTHS 3.31 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 3.75 98.96 4.41
12 MONTHS 3.74 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 29,445 MN
CLOSED AUGUST 10, 1993
- - 0 - -
h- pro onl 3 AUG 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, AVGUST 11, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
CSB LOOKS AT DEPARTMENTS IN LOCAI. ISATION MOVE ................ 1
PA MEETS CONSULS TO EXPRESS CONCERN OVER VISA REQUIREMENT ... 2
POSSESSING ENDANGERED SPECIES WITHOUT LICENCE AN OFFENCE .... 3
ED RECEIVES ENQUIRIES ON HKCEE ................................. 4
GOB BAZAAR FOR ON-THE-JOB TRAINING SCHEME ...................... 4
TWO CAR PARK SITES TO LET ...................................... 5
IMMIGRATION OFFICERS ON OVERSEAS TRAINING ...................... 6
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURE SOUGHT ....................... 6
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 7
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11, 1993
CSB LOOKS AT DEPARTMENTS IN LOCALISATION MOVE *****
THE CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH IS LOOKING AT SPECIFIC GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS THAT MAY HAVE PARTICULAR PROBLEMS FOLLOWING A RECENT ANNOUNCEMENT ON THE TRANSFER OF ELIGIBLE OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS TO LOCAL TERMS, THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, MRS ANSON CHAN, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER ATTENDING A MEETING OF THE PUBLIC SERVICES PANEL OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, MRS CHAN SAID: "WE ARE EXAMINING THESE DEPARTMENTS SEPARATELY IN CONSULTATION WITH POLICY SECRETARIES AND HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS TO SEE HOW BEST TO TACKLE THESE PROBLEMS AND TO QUICKEN THE PACE OF LOCALISATION."
"IN THE LIGHT OF THIS EXAMINATION, WHICH MAY TAKE SEVERAL WEEKS OR PERHAPS SEVERAL MONTHS, WE WILL THEN HAVE A BETTER IDEA AS TO THE NUMBER OF OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS WHO WILL BE SUCCESSFUL IN APPLYING FOR TRANSFER TO LOCAL TERMS," SHE SAID.
"WE WILL BE ABLE TO ASSESS THE IMPACT ON EXISTING LOCAL OFFICERS AND, HAVING DONE THAT ASSESSMENT, WE WILL THEN BE IN A POSITION TO SEE WHAT IMMEDIATE MEASURES, IF ANY, SHOULD BE TAKEN,” MRS CHAN ADDED.
"THIS WILL ACHIEVE THE GOVERNMENT’S AND PANEL MEMBERS’ COMMON OBJECTIVE OF FINDING WAYS TO ADDRESS THEIR CONCERN WHILE LOOKING AT THE POSSIBILITY OF QUICKENING THE PACE OF LOCALISATION," SHE NOTED.
REFERRING TO A SUGGESTION BY MEMBERS OF THE PANEL FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO SHELVE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CHANGE, THE SECRETARY SAID: "WE SEE CONSIDERABLE DIFFICULTIES IN SHELVING IMPLEMENTATION BECAUSE IT WOULD CREATE A PERIOD OF UNCERTAINTY, WHICH WILL NOT BE GOOD EITHER FOR LOCAL OFFICERS OR FOR THE CONCERNED OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS."
"THE CHANGE WE HAVE ANNOUNCED WILL AVOID THIS UNCERTAINTY AND WILL ALLOW US TO DEAL FAIRLY AND FIRMLY WITH APPLICATIONS FOR TRANSFER ON AN INTERIM BASIS WITHOUT COMMITTING THE FUTURE SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION GOVERNMENT," SHE SAID.
MRS CHAN REITERATED THAT THE MEASURE THE GOVERNMENT HAD ANNOUNCED WAS OF AN INTERIM, SHORT-TERM NATURE, PENDING CONSULTATION WITH THE CHINESE, STAFF ASSOCIATIONS AND OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES ON THE LONGER-TERM ARRANGEMENTS AFTER 1997.
SHE SAID SHE HAD MET MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION OF STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS AND THE LOCAL CROWN COUNSEL ASSOCIATION TO HEAR THEIR CONCERNS AND TO EXPLAIN WHY THE GOVERNMENT HAD FELT IT NECESSARY TO INTRODUCE A CHANGE.
/"I AM ........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11, 1993
- 2 -
"I AM HAPPY TO MEET ANY OTHER STAFF ASSOCIATIONS WHO WISH TO DISCUSS THEIR SPECIFIC CONCERN," SHE SAID. "WE WELCOME SUGGESTIONS FROM STAFF ASSOCIATIONS AND INDEED MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON HOW BETTER TO IMPLEMENT OUR LOCALISATION POLICY OR ON ALLAYING SPECIFIC STAFF CONCERNS."
MRS CHAN STRESSED THAT THE GOVERNMENT REMAINED VIGOROUS AND CONSISTENT IN IMPLEMENTING ITS LOCALISATION POLICY AND WOULD CONTINUE TO GIVE PREFERENCE TO LOCAL OFFICERS ON RECRUITMENT AND TO REPLACE OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS WITH SUITABLE LOCAL OFFICERS WHEN AVAILABLE.
--------0-----------
PA MEETS CONSULS TO EXPRESS CONCERN OVER VISA REQUIREMENT * * * * *
THE ACTING POLITICAL ADVISER MR JOHN ASHTON, ACCOMPANIED BY OFFICIALS FROM SECURITY BRANCH AND IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) MET THE CONSULS-GENERAL OR THEIR REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINE SIGNATORY COUNTRIES OF THE SCHENGEN CONVENTION - BELGIUM, FRANCE, GERMANY, GREECE, ITALY, LUXEMBOURG, NETHERLANDS, PORTUGAL AND SPAIN.
MR ASHTON DREW TO THEIR ATTENTION THE CONCERN WHICH HAD BEEN AROUSED IN THE COMMUNITY BY RECENT REPORTS THAT, UNDER THE COMMON VISA POLICY TO BE ADOPTED BY THE SCHENGEN COUNTRIES, THERE WOULD BE NEW VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR BRITISH DEPENDENT TERRITORY CITIZENS AND BRITISH NATIONALS (OVERSEAS) VISITING THE MAJORITY OF SCHENGEN COUNTRIES, BELGIUM, GREECE, ITALY, LUXEMBOURG, NETHERLANDS AND SPAIN.
HE SAID THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT SHARED THIS CONCERN, AND WISHED TO REINFORCE THE REPRESENTATIONS ALREADY BEING MADE BY THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT TO TRY TO PERSUADE SCHENGEN COUNTRIES NOT TO IMPOSE NEW VISA RESTRICTIONS ON VISITORS FROM HONG KONG.
THE CONSULS-GENERAL UNDERTOOK TO REPORT THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT’S REPRESENTATIONS TO THEIR OWN AUTHORITIES, AND TO KEEP THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT CLOSELY INFORMED OF DEVELOPMENTS ON THIS ISSUE.
--------0 - -
/3 ........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11, 1993
- 3 -
POSSESSING ENDANGERED SPECIES
» » »
WITHOUT LICENCE AN OFFENCE * *
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE TODAY (WEDNESDAY) REMINDED THAT POSSESSING ENDANGERED SPECIES WITHOUT VALID LICENCES ISSUED BY THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT (AFD) IS AN OFFENCE.
THE REMINDER WAS ISSUED BY AFD’S ACTING SENIOR CONSERVATION OFFICER, MR MARTIN LEUNG KA-LOK, AFTER A 45-YEAR-OLD MAN WAS EARLIER TODAY (WEDNESDAY) FINED $5,000 BY A NORTH KOWLOON MAGISTRATE FOR POSSESSING AN ASIATIC BLACK BEAR LAST JULY.
MR LEUNG SAID: "ASIATIC BLACK BEARS ARE HIGHLY ENDANGERED ANIMAL SPECIES PROTECTED UNDER THE ANIMALS AND PLANTS (PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES) ORDINANCE, CAP 187, IN HONG KONG."
UNDER THE ORDINANCE, ANYONE FOUND GUILTY OF ILLEGALLY IMPORTING, EXPORTING OR POSSESSING THESE ANIMALS WILL BE LIABLE ON CONVICTION TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $25,000 AND IN CASE OF A REPEATED OFFENCE A FINE OF $50,000 PLUS SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT.
SEIZED ENDANGERED SPECIES WILL ALSO BE SUBJECT TO FORFEITURE.
MR LEUNG ALSO CALLED ON LOCAL RESIDENTS OR SEAMEN NOT TO BRING IN OR OUT OF HONG KONG ANY ENDANGERED SPECIES AT ALL TIME UNLESS ALL IMPORT AND EXPORT REQUIREMENTS ARE COMPLIED WITH.
CURRENTLY, OVER 9,000 SPECIES OF ANIMALS AND PLANTS, WHETHER ALIVE, DEAD, STUFFED SPECIMEN, PARTS OR DERIVATIVES ARE LISTED UNDER THE ORDINANCE.
MR LEUNG SAID SOME 74 PROSECUTIONS WERE MADE AGAINST PEOPLE CONTRAVENING THE ORDINANCE IN THE FIRST SEVEN MONTHS OF THIS YEAR, WITH FINES TOTALLING $178,400.
THERE WERE 153 PROSECUTIONS EACH FOR 1991 AND LAST YEAR, WITH FINES AMOUNTING TO $213,750 AND $238,750 RESPECTIVELY, MR LEUNG ADDED.
--------0----------
/4 ........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11, 1993
ED RECEIVES ENQUIRIES ON HKCEE * * * * *
UP TO 5.30 PM TODAY (WEDNESDAY), THE CAREERS AND GUIDANCE SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAD RECEIVED 672 VISITORS AND HANDLED 365 TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES ON MATTERS RELATED TO THE RELEASE OF THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION RESULTS, AN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE CAREERS EDUCATION CENTRE AT ROOM 206 OF THE MONG KOK GOVERNMENT OFFICES AT 30 LUEN WAN STREET, MONG KOK, PROVIDES STUDENTS WITH MATERIALS ON OPPORTUNITIES FOR FURTHER STUDIES AND TRAINING, AND INFORMATION ON VARIOUS PROFESSIONS.
THE CENTRE WILL EXTEND ITS OPENING HOURS WITHOUT A BREAK FROM 8.45 AM TO 5.30 PM UNTIL FRIDAY (AUGUST 13).
- - 0 - -
JOB BAZAAR FOR ON-THE-JOB TRAINING SCHEME *****
A LARGE-SCALE JOB BAZAAR WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (THURSDAY) IN TSUEN WAN TO HELP WORKERS AND LOCAL RESIDENTS LOOK FOR JOBS UNDER THE ON-THE-JOB TRAINING SCHEME (OJT) SET UP BY THE EMPLOYEES RETRAINING BOARD (ERB).
ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (LES) AND SPONSORED BY THE ERB, THE BAZAAR WILL BE THE FIRST IN A SERIES WHICH AIMED AT PROVIDING AN OPPORTUNITY FOR EMPLOYERS AND POTENTIAL EMPLOYEES TO MAKE DIRECT CONTACT AND DISCUSS ABOUT JOB VACANCIES AND EMPLOYMENT.
THE JOB BAZAAR WILL BE HELD AT THE EXHIBITION GALLERY OF THE TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL. 18 PARTICIPATING EMPLOYERS FROM VARIOUS TRADES INCLUDING CATERING, LAUNDRY, HOTEL, BAKERY, BEVERAGE AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT, WILL DISPLAY VACANCY INFORMATION TO ENABLE JOB-SEEKERS TO FIND SUITABLE JOBS.
A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT THE LES STAFF WOULD GIVE TALKS ON RELATED TRADES AND PROVIDE JOB COUNSELLING SO THAT JOB-SEEKERS WOULD BE ABLE TO ACQUAINT THEMSELVES WITH INFORMATION ON JOB OPPORTUNITIES.
EMPLOYERS CAN ALSO MAKE USE OF THE OCCASION TO SELECT SUITABLE CANDIDATES TO CONDUCT ON THE SPOT JOB INTERVIEWS OR ARRANGE INTERVIEWS AT OTHER DATES, HE ADDED.
/THE SPOKESMAN
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11, 1993
- 5 -
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT APPLICANTS FOR THE OJT SHOULD BE HONG KONG RESIDENTS, INCLUDING HOUSEWIVES, WHO WERE 30 YEARS OLD OR ABOVE, AND HAD WORKED IN A PARTICULAR TRADE FOR NOT LESS THAN TWO YEARS.
HE NOTED THAT A BROADCASTING VAN WILL TOUR LOCAL PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES THROUGHOUT THE DAY TO DRIVE HOME THE ON-THE-JOB TRAINING MESSAGE.
ABOUT 10,000 COPIES OF A LEAFLET ON THE JOB BAZAAR WERE PRINTED AND DISTRIBUTED TO LOCAL RESIDENTS.
THE NEXT JOB BAZAAR IS SCHEDULED TO BE HELD AT THE SHA TIN TOWN HALL ON AUGUST 31.
EMPLOYERS WHO ARE INTERESTED TO PARTICIPATE CAN CONTACT THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ON TEL 604 7919 OR 852 4156 FOR DETAILS.
---------0-----------
TWO CAR PARK SITES TO LET * » » » «
THE LANDS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE SHORT-TERM TENANCIES OF TWO PIECES OF GOVERNMENT LAND TO BE USED AS FEE-PAYING PUBLIC CAR PARKS.
THE FIRST LOT, AT THE JUNCTION OF TSING LUN ROAD AND TSUN WEN ROAD IN TUEN MUN, HAS AN AREA OF 4,782 SQUARE METRES. THE OTHER IS AT MEI LAI ROAD, LAI CHI KOK, COVERING AN AREA OF ABOUT 1,790 SQUARE METRES.
THE TENANCY OF THE FIRST LOT WILL BE FOR TWO YEARS, AND THE SECOND LOT NINE MONTHS, BOTH RENEWABLE QUARTERLY.
THE LOT IN LAI CHI KOK WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR THE PARKING OF LORRIES, TRUCKS, CONTAINER VEHICLES AND DANGEROUS GOODS VEHICLES.
CLOSING DATE FOR TENDERS IS NOON ON AUGUST 27.
FORMS OF TENDER, TENDER NOTICE AND CONDITIONS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, TUEN MUN, TUEN MUN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 1 TUEN HI ROAD, TUEN MUN; THE LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD; AND THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICES KOWLOON, 10TH FLOOR, YAU MA TEI CAR PARK BUILDING, 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON.
TENDER PLANS CAN ALSO BE INSPECTED AT THE OFFICES.
- - 0 - -
/6.........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11, 1993
IMMIGRATION OFFICERS ON OVERSEAS TRAINING
*****
SEVEN OFFICERS OF THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT WILL LEAVE FOR EUROPE AND USA FOR TRAINING IN AUGUST AND OCTOBER.
FOUR OF THEM WILL GO TO THE UNITED KINGDOM, ITALY AND FRANCE ON AN EIGHT-WEEK STUDY OF THEIR IMMIGRATION PROCEDURES.
THEY ARE ACTING ASSISTANT PRINICIPAL IMMIGRATION OFFICER, MR WAI FOK-CHEUNG, CHIEF IMMIGRATION OFFICERS, MR KWONG KI-CHO AND MR HO WAI-SUM AND ACTING CHIEF IMMIGRATION OFFICER, MR CHUN YIU.
CHIEF IMMIGRATION OFFICERS, MR TING WING-CHUEN AND MR LAW YIU-TUNG, WILL SPEND NINE MONTHS IN THE STUDY OF PROGRAMME AND PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY, USA.
IMMIGRATION OFFICER, MR TUNG YING-YEUNG, WILL ATTEND A DRILL INSTRUCTORS COURSE IN THE UK FOR TWO WEEKS TO BE FOLLOWED BY A ONE-WEEK ATTACHMENT TO AN ARMY ESTABLISHMENT.
AT A BRIEFING BEFORE THEIR DEPARTURE, DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION, MR LAURENCE LEUNG, SAID HE ATTACHED GREAT IMPORTANCE TO OFFICERS OF THE DEPARTMENT RECEIVING OVERSEAS TRAINING.
IT IS ESSENTIAL FOR THEM TO ESTABLISH CONTACTS WITH FOREIGN IMMIGRATION SERVICES AND LEARN FROM THEIR EXPERIENCE, HE SAID.
THE STUDY TRIPS WOULD HELP OFFICERS IN SELF DEVELOPMENT AND GETTING A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE DIFFERENT CULTURAL AND SOCIAL BACKGROUNDS OF OVERSEAS VISITORS WHOM THEY WOULD MEET ON DUTY.
MR LEUNG EMPHASISED THAT THE DEPARTMENT FULLY RECOGNISED THE LONG-TERM BENEFITS THAT COULD BE ACHIEVED THROUGH THE OVERSEAS STUDY TRIPS AND COURSES.
"EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO PROVIDE OFFICERS WITH SUCH OPPORTUNITIES," HE SAID.
HE URGED THE OFFICERS TO MAKE BEST USE OF THE OPPORTUNITY TO WIDEN THEIR HORIZON AND TO ACHIEVE SELF ENRICHMENT.
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURE SOUGHT
*****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE AN UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURE AT A SHAU KET WAN BUILDING SO THAT IT CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND THE PUBLIC.
THE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURE USED FOR DWELLING IS PUT UP ON THE CANOPY OF THE FIRST FLOOR AT 39 KAM WA STREET.
/NOTICE OF
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11, 1993
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE KONG DISTRICT COURT UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
ORDER FROM THE HONG
ON OCTOBER 13 WAS
DEMOLITION OF THE STRUCTURE IS EXPECTED TO
START AS SOON AS
THE CLOSURE ORDER IS ISSUED.
---------0-----------
HONG
KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
MONEY MARKET * * *
OPERATIONS ♦ *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
1,500
REVERSAL OF LAF
+ 500
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY
NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
-670
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
LAF RATE
2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
TWI 112.5 *+0.2*
11.8.93
1 , 330
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.88 PCT 12 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.71 3.69
1 MONTH 2.86 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.99 3.85
3 MONTHS 3.08 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 100.99 4.11
6 MONTHS 3.27 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 3.75 99.00 4.39
12 MONTHS 3.71 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 32,276 MN
CLOSED 11 AUGUST 1993
--------0-----------
Received by ?RQ
ob-~LL&U6^993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVT SENSITIVE TO LOCAI OFFICERS' VIEWS ON IOCAI 1SATION .... 1
.JUVENILE OFFENDERS ARRESTED FALL ............................ 2
BRITISH NATIONALITY SELECTION SCHEME ......................... 2
DEADLINE DRAWS NEAR FOR COMMENTS ON I EGAI AID PAPER ......... 3
SECOND QUARTER BUSINESS SURVEY RESUITS REI EASED ............. 4
DRAINAGE SYSTEMS BEING UPGRADED .............................. 7
EXTERNAl TRADF STATISTICS FOR JUNF ........................... 8
STAGE III OF FORM 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE BEGINS TOMORROW .... 17
MORE ENQUIRIES ON HKCEF RECEIVED ............................. 17
COURT OF INT'I TRADE’S DECISION ON SWEATER IMPORTS ........... 18
JOB BAZAAR ATTRACTS I , 400 JOB-SEFKFRS ...................... 19
BEACH WATER GRADES ........................................... 19
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .
23
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
1
GOVT SENSITIVE TO LOCAL OFFICERS’ VIEWS ON LOCALISATION *****
THE GOVERNMENT IS VERY SENSITIVE TO THE VIEWS OF LOCAL OFFICERS ON THE LOCALISATION ISSUE AND IT HAS NO INTENTION OF ALLOWING THE NEW EXPATRIATE ARRANGEMENTS TO SLOW DOWN THE PACE OF LOCALISATION, ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
"INDEED, WHERE THERE ARE PROBLEMS IN SOME DEPARTMENTS OVER LOCALISATION, THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE AND I MYSELF ARE TALKING TO THE HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS WITH A VIEW TO SPEEDING UP THE PROCESS.
"AND SO WE ARE COMMITTED TO LOCALISATION AND NO DECISION THAT WE HAVE MADE SHOULD BE TAKEN TO BE ANY CONTRARY TO THAT," HE STRESSED.
SIR DAVID WAS SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER OPENING THE JUNIOR POLICE CALL SUMMER CAMP 93 AT PO LEUNG KUK HOLIDAY CAMP IN PAR TAM CHUNG, SAI KUNG.
HE SAID IT SHOULD NOT BE ASSUMED THAT EXPATRIATE OFFICERS WHO APPLIED FOR NATURALISATION AND NEW CONTRACTS WOULD BE GRANTED AS A MATTER OF COURSE.
"EVERY CASE WILL BE CONSIDERED ON ITS MERIT. WE WILL LOOK AT THE MERITS OF THE OFFICER CONCERNED," HE SAID.
WHEN THE GOVERNMENT IS PREPARING FOR 1997 AND THE PROVISIONS IN THE BASIC LAW, IT MUST MAKE SURE THAT LOCAL CHINESE OFFICERS WHO ARE READY TO TAKE OVER THOSE SENIOR POSITIONS WOULD BE IN PLACE.
"HAVING THEM TN PLACE IN 1997 MEANS THAT WE MUST GIVE THEM THE NECESSARY EXPERIENCE NOW AND SO THE MANAGEMENT OF THE CIVIL SERVICE WILL ALSO BE A KEY FACTOR IN DECIDING WHETHER EXPATRIATE OFFICERS SHOULD BE ALLOWED 'I’O HAVE THEIR CONTRACTS RENEWED AS WELL AS -MERITS AND THAT’S AN IMPORTANT ISSUE AS WELL."
SIR DAVID ALSO STRESSED THAT ARRANGEMENTS TO ALLOW EXPATRIATE CIVIL SERVANTS TO SWITCH TO LOCAL TERMS WERE VERY MUCH TEMPORARY ARRANGEMENTS.
SIR DAVID ALSO HOPED THAT THE CIVIL SERVICE DID NOT RESORT TO INDUSTRIAL ACTION TO PRESS AHEAD THEIR CAUSE.
"AND I’D VERY MUCH HOPE THAT WE CAN CONTINUE TALKING. WE CAN CONTINUE DISCUSSING WITH THE UNIONS AND WITH THE DEPARTMENTS CONCERNED HOW TO FIND THE BEST WAY FORWARD."
HE ESTIMATED THAT ONLY 10 OUT OF OVER 70 GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS WOULD LIKELY BE AFFECTED BY THE NEW POLICY.
"SO WE ARE TALKING ABOUT FIRST OF ALL A VERY SMALL NUMBER OF DEPARTMENTS. WE ARE TALKING ABOUT A VERY SMALL NUMBER OF PEOPLE AND AS I EMPHASISED WE ARE DETERMINED NOT TO LET THIS AFFECT THE PACE OF LOCALISATION AS WE HAVE BEEN PURSUING. AND I THINK OUR RECORD IF ANYBODY CARES TO EXAMINE IS VERY GOOD IN THAT RESPECT."
/2 ........
2
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
JUVENILE OFFENDERS ARRESTED FALL
*****
THE NUMBER OF JUVENILE OFFENDERS ARRESTED WAS REDUCED FROM 7,000 IN 1991 TO 6,500 LAST YEAR, AND THE OVERALL CRIME RATE DECREASED FROM 1,540 TO 1,450 PER 100,000 PERSONS IN THE SAME PERIOD UNDER COMPARISON.
THE ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, TOLD AN AUDIENCE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE JUNIOR POLICE CALL (JPC) ANNUAL SUMMER CAMP AT THE PO LEUNG KUK PAK TAM CHUNG HOLIDAY CAMP, SAI KUNG TODAY (THURSDAY) .
SIR DAVID THANKED THE JPC FOR ITS VALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS IN HELPING THE POLICE TO FIGHT CRIME OVER THE PAST YEARS, WITHOUT WHICH, HE SAID, THE FIGHT CRIME CAMPAIGNS WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN SO SUCCESSFUL.
"AS MEMBERS OF THE JPC, YOU ARE ENCOURAGED NOT ONLY TO ASSIST THE POLICE IN FIGHTING CRIME, BUT ALSO TO TAKE PART IN A WIDE RANGE OF COMMUNITY, EDUCATIONAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY THE POLICE, SUCH AS FLAG-SELLING AND OTHER FUND-RAISING ACTIVITIES FOR CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS.
"BY JOINING THE JPC, YOU HAVE ALL TAKEN A POSITIVE STEP IN DEVELOPING INTO RESPONSIBLE AND CARING CITIZENS OF THE FUTURE," HE TOLD THE 1,500 CAMPERS THERE.
THE JPC SUMMER CAMP IS AN ANNUAL EVENT ORGANISED BY THE POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS BRANCH TO PROVIDE HEALTHY ACTIVITIES FOR JPC MEMBERS DURING THEIR SUMMER VACATION.
"THE THEME OF THIS YEAR’S CAMP IS: PREVENT CRIME; REPORT CRIME; AND FIGHT CRIME," SIR DAVID SAID.
SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 1974, THE JUNIOR POLICE CALL HAS GROWN INTO ONE OF THE LARGEST AND MOST POPULAR ORGANISATIONS OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN HONG KONG.
FOR THE PAST 19 YEARS, OVER 600,000 YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE JOINED THE SCHEME, AND THERE IS AN AVERAGE OF MORE THAN 2,000 APPLICATIONS COMING IN EVERY MONTH.
-----0------
BRITISH NATIONALITY SELECTION SCHEME
*****
APPLICATIONS FOR THE FINAL PHASE OF THE BRITISH SELECTION SCHEME WILL BE INVITED EARLY NEXT YEAR.
NATIONALITY
TO NATIONAL
QUALIFY FOR APPLYING UNDER THE SCHEME, MUST APPLY FOR NATURALISATION AS A BRITISH D TERRITORIES CITIZEN (BDTC) ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 13 THIS YEAR.
NON-BRITISH
DEPENDENT
A
UNDER THE SCHEME INTRODUCED IN DECEMBER 1990 UP HONG KONG RESIDENTS AND THEIR DEPENDANTS MAY BE REGISTERED CITIZENS WITHOUT HAVING TO LEAVE THE TERRITORY.
TO 50,000
AS BRITISH
/ABOUT 12,000 .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
3
ABOUT 12,000 PLACES REMAINING UNUSED AT THE END OF THE FIRST PHASE WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR ALLOCATION IN THE FINAL PHASE RUNNING FROM JANUARY 3, 1994 TO JUNE 30, 1997.
IN A DIRECTION ISSUED TO THE GOVERNOR OF HONG KONG, THE SECRETARY OF STATE HAS ANNOUNCED A NEW CUT-OFF DATE FOR NON-BRITISH NATIONALS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN THE BRITISH NATIONALITY SELECTION SCHEME TO APPLY FOR NATURALISATION AS BDTC’S.
’’THE SCHEME IS OPEN TO CERTAIN CATEGORIES OF BRITISH NATIONALS ONLY, SUCH AS BDTC’S AND BRITISH NATIONALS (OVERSEAS). TO QUALIFY, NON-BRITISH NATIONALS, SUCH AS HOLDERS OF CERTIFICATES OF IDENTITY, MUST APPLY FOR NATURALISATION AS BDTC’S ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 13, 1993,” A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN EXPLAINED.
’’THIS CUT-OFF DATE WILL NOT APPLY TO PEOPLE HAVING NO PLANS TO APPLY UNDER THE BRITISH NATIONALITY SELECTION SCHEME,” HE ADDED. THE PUBLIC MAY CALL 824 6111 FOR ENQUIRIES.
AN INFORMATION BOOKLET GIVING DETAILS OF THE FINAL PHASE OF THE SCHEME, INCLUDING THE REVISED POINTS SYSTEM AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES, WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, ALL DISTRICT OFFICES AND IMMIGRATION OFFICES FREE OF CHARGE FROM TOMORROW.
----0-----
DEADLINE DRAWS NEAR FOR COMMENTS ON LEGAL AID PAPER
********
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (THURSDAY) REMINDED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WISHING TO COMMENT ON THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON LEGAL AID TO ACT PROMPTLY AS THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS WAS NEXT MONDAY (AUGUST 16).
THE GOVERNMENT IS CONDUCTING A PUBLIC CONSULTATION EXERCISE ON THE FINDINGS OF AN INTER-DEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP WHICH HAS REVIEWED THE LAW, POLICY AND PRACTICE GOVERNING THE PROVISION OF LEGAL AID SERVICES IN HONG KONG.
THE WORKING GROUP HAS PROPOSED SOME MEASURES TO IMPROVE THE PROVISION OF LEGAL AID SERVICES. ITS FINDINGS ARE SET OUT IN THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON LEGAL AID.
’’COPIES OF THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ARE AVAILABLE, IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE, AT THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY COUNTERS OF ALL DISTRICT OFFICES. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO OFFER THEIR COMMENTS ON THE FINDINGS OF THE WORKING GROUP,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
COPIES OF THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER HAVE ALSO BEEN MADE AVAILABLE TO THE PARTIES DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN THE PROVISION OF LEGAL AID SERVICES. THEY INCLUDE THE BAR ASSOCIATION, LAW SOCIETY, LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT, LAW SOCIETY LEGAL ADVICE AND DUTY LAWYER SCHEMES.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR MR SIMON IP MOVED A MOTION DEBATE IN THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON JULY 21 URGING FOR THE SETTING UP OF AN INDEPENDENT STATUTORY AUTHORITY TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF LEGAL AID.
/THE CHIEF .
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
4
THE CHIEF SECRETARY, SIR DAVID FORD, NOTED THAT THE VARIOUS OPTIONS OF ENHANCING THE INDEPENDENCE OF LEGAL AID ADMINISTRATION WERE DISCUSSED IN THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER AND THAT THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS WOULD FORM PART OF FEEDBACK ON THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER ON LEGAL AID.
’’THE ADMINISTRATION WILL FORMULATE THE FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS, AFTER TAKING INTO ACCOUNT ALL THE FEEDBACK ON THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER,” THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
COMMENTS ON THE CONSULTATIVE PAPER SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION ON FIFTH FLOOR, MAIN WING, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, CENTRAL.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID LATE SUBMISSIONS WOULD BE ACCEPTED IF NOTICE WAS SENT TO THE DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION.
------0-------
SECOND QUARTER BUSINESS SURVEY RESULTS RELEASED *****
MANUFACTURERS GENERALLY REPORTED SEASONAL IMPROVEMENT IN BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF THIS YEAR. LOOKING AHEAD, MANUFACTURERS EXPECT CONTINUED IMPROVEMENT IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
FIRMS FROM THE TRADES OF REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED SERVICES EXPERIENCED A SLIGHTLY BETTER THAN EXPECTED GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993. THIS IS DUE TO THE RECENT BUOYANCY IN THE PROPERTY MARKET.
LOOKING AHEAD, THE FIRMS GENERALLY EXPECT FURTHER IMPROVEMENT TN THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
THE BANKING INDUSTRY ALSO EXPERIENCED IMPROVEMENT IN THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF THIS YEAR. THE PROBLEMS OF SHORTAGE OF STAFF AND HIGH STAFF TURNOVER ALLEVIATED IN THE QUARTER. LOOKING AHEAD, THE BANKS EXPECT FURTHER IMPROVEMENT IN THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION.
THESE ARE SOME OF THE MAJOR RESULTS OF THE QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY RELEASED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
HIGH WAGE RATES CONTINUED TO BE THE BUSINESS PROBLEM MOST CITED BY THE MANUFACTURERS AND WILL STILL BOTHER THEM IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER. IN ADDITION, PRICE COMPETITIONS FROM LOCAL AND OVERSEAS COMPETITORS STILL REMAINED KEEN.
FOR INDIVIDUAL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES, MANUFACTURERS FROM THE WEARING APPAREL INDUSTRY REPORTED IMPROVEMENT IN BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993, ALTHOUGH THE IMPROVEMENT WAS BELOW WHAT HAD BEEN PREVIOUSLY EXPECTED.
/PRICE COMPETITION.......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
5
PRICE COMPETITION AND SHORTAGE OF LABOUR REMAINED THE MAJOR PROBLEMS REPORTED BY MANUFACTURERS FROM THE INDUSTRY. LOOKING AHEAD, MANUFACTURERS FROM THE INDUSTRY GENERALLY EXPECT IMPROVEMENT IN THE BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
MANUFACTURERS FROM THE TEXTILES INDUSTRY ALSO REPORTED IMPROVEMENT IN THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993. THE PROBLEM OF INSUFFICIENT BUSINESS ORDERS ALLEVIATED AND IS EXPECTED TO FURTHER IMPROVE IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER. LOOKING AHEAD, BROADLY THE SAME BUSINESS SITUATION IS EXPECTED.
THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION OF THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY IMPROVED IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993. THE PROBLEM OF PRICE COMPETITION FROM OVERSEAS COMPETITORS ALLEVIATED WHILE SHORTAGE OF SKILLED LABOUR BECAME SERIOUS.
LOOKING AHEAD, MANUFACTURERS FROM THE INDUSTRY GENERALLY EXPECT FURTHER IMPROVEMENT IN THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION.
THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION OF THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY IMPROVED IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993. THE PROBLEMS OF SHORTAGE OF GENERAL LABOUR AND HIGH STAFF TURNOVER HAD SOMEWHAT ALLEVIATED.
ON THE OTHER HAND, THE PROBLEM OF PRICE COMPETITION FROM OVERSEAS FIRMS STILL BOTHERED THE INDUSTRY AND THE PROBLEM OF HIGH WAGE RATES DETERIORATED.
HOWEVER, LOOKING AHEAD, MANUFACTURERS FROM THIS INDUSTRY EXPECT THAT BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION WILL CONTINUE TO IMPROVE IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
MANUFACTURERS FROM THE FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRY REPORTED THAT THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION IMPROVED IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993.
THE PROBLEM OF LOCAL PRICE COMPETITION ALLEVIATED WHILE THE PROBLEM OF INSUFFICIENT BUSINESS ORDERS INTENSIFIED IN THE QUARTER.
LOOKING AHEAD, THE MAJORITY OF MANUFACTURERS FROM THE INDUSTRY EXPECT IMPROVEMENT IN THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION.
IMPROVEMENT IN BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION WAS REPORTED BY MANUFACTURERS FROM THE ELECTRICAL MACHINERY AND APPLIANCES INDUSTRY IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993.
THOUGH THE PROBLEM OF HIGH WAGE RATES WAS STILL A MAJOR PROBLEM, THERE WAS ALLEVIATION IN THE SHORTAGE OF SKILLED LABOUR. LOOKING AHEAD, FURTHER IMPROVEMENT IN BUSINESS SITUATION IS EXPECTED IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
FOR THE PRINTING INDUSTRY, WHILE THERE WAS IMPROVEMENT IN BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993, IT WAS LOWER THAN WHAT HAD BEEN EXPECTED.
THE PROBLEMS OF LOCAL PRICE COMPETITION, HIGH LABOUR TURNOVER AND HIGH WAGE RATES CONTINUED TO BOTHER THE INDUSTRY.
/NEVERTHELESS, THE .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
6
NEVERTHELESS, THE PROBLEM OF LABOUR SHORTAGE SEEMED TO HAVE ALLEVIATED IN THE QUARTER. LOOKING AHEAD, THE BUSINESS SITUATION WILL CONTINUE TO IMPROVE IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR, THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION REMAINED BROADLY THE SAME IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993.
»
THE PROBLEM OF LOCAL PRICE COMPETITION HAD SOMEWHAT ALLEVIATED BUT STILL REMAINED THE MOST CITED PROBLEM IN THE SECTOR. THE PROBLEM OF HIGH MATERIAL PRICES WAS EMERGING IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993.
BUT LOOKING AHEAD, BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION ARE EXPECTED TO IMPROVE.
FOR THE WHOLESALE, RETAIL AND 1MPORT/EXPORT TRADES, THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION ALSO REMAINED BROADLY THE SAME IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993.
PRICE COMPETITION REMAINED KEEN WHILE THE PROBLEM OF HIGH STAFF TURNOVER HAD SOMEWHAT ALLEVIATED. LOOKING AHEAD, FIRMS FROM THESE TRADES EXPECT IMPROVEMENT IN BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION. I
THE MAJORITY OF RESTAURANT OPERATORS REPORTED THAT THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION DETERIORATED IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF THIS YEAR. THE DIP WAS, HOWEVER, LARGELY SEASONAL.
THE PROBLEM OF INSUFFICIENT BUSINESS INTENSIFIED IN THE QUARTER BUT IS EXPECTED TO ALLEVIATE AGAIN IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER. LOOKING AHEAD, BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION WILL IMPROVE IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER AS THE RESTAURANT BUSINESS ENTERS INTO A SEASONAL PEAK.
THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION OF THE HOTEL INDUSTRY IMPROVED IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993. THE PROBLEM OF HIGH STAFF TURNOVER HAS EASED SOMEWHAT WHILE PRICE COMPETITION REMAINED THE BUSINESS PROBLEM MOST CITED BY HOTEL OPERATORS.
LOOKING AHEAD, THE MAJORITY OF HOTEL OPERATORS EXPECT SEASONAL DETERIORATION IN BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION IN THE FOLLOWING QUARTER.
FOR THE TRANSPORT, STORAGE AND COMMUNICATION SERVICES, BOTH THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND CAPACITY UTILISATION IMPROVED IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993.
WHILE THE PROBLEMS OF HIGH STAFF TURNOVER AND PRICE COMPETITION CONTINUED TO BOTHER THE INDUSTRY, FURTHER IMPROVEMENT IN THE PROBLEM OF INSUFFICIENT BUSINESS WAS REPORTED. LOOKING AHEAD, FURTHER IMPROVEMENT IN BUSINESS SITUATION IS EXPECTED.
ABOUT 500 FIRMS FROM VARIOUS INDUSTRIES AND TRADES, FORMING A CROSS-SECTION OF THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY, PARTICIPATED IN THE SURVEY.
THEY WERE ASKED ABOUT THEIR BUSINESS EXPERIENCES AND EXPECTATIONS AS WELL AS THE BUSINESS PROBLEMS THEY FACED.
/THE RESULTS .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
7
THE RESULTS OE THE QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY, OBTAINED WITH A MINIMUM TIME LAG, ARE INTENDED TO PROVIDE A SOURCE OE REEERENCE FOR MAKING A QUICK ASSESSMENT OF THE CURRENT ECONOMIC SITUATION OF HONG KONG FROM A SHORT-TERM PERSPECTIVE.
IN THE SURVEY, PARTICIPATING FIRMS WERE ASKED TO INDICATE WHETHER, IN THEIR OPINION, THE GENERAL BUSINESS SITUATION AND THE LEVEL OF CAPACITY UTILISATION HAD 'IMPROVED', 'REMAINED THE SAME’ OR 'DETERIORATED’ IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993 AS COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING QUARTER.
THEY WERE ALSO ASKED TO INDICATE WHETHER THE SITUATION IS EXPECTED TO 'IMPROVE', 'REMAIN THE SAME’ OR 'DETERIORATE' IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1993.
THE OPINIONS OF RESPONDENTS WERE THEN ANALYSED AND THE SUMMARY FINDINGS PUBLISHED IN THE "REPORT ON QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY, SECOND QUARTER 1993".
MOREOVER, THE SURVEY REPORT CONTAINS A SECTION ON THE BUSINESS PROBLEMS EXPERIENCED AND EXPECTED BY FIRMS IN THE DIFFERENT ECONOMIC SECTORS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT THAT IN A SURVEY OF THIS NATURE THE RESULTS SHOULD BE INTERPRETED WITH CAUTION AS IT WAS DIFFICULT TO ESTABLISH PRECISELY THE EXTENT TO WHICH RESPONDENTS’ RECOLLECTION OF THE PAST AND PERCEPTION OF THE FUTURE ACCORDED WITH THE UNDERLYING TRENDS.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY BUY THE REPORT FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, OR FROM THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, AT $12.5 A COPY.
FURTHER DETAILS OF THE QUARTERLY BUSINESS SURVEY MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 839 3223.
---------0-----------
DRAINAGE SYSTEMS BEING UPGRADED » « » * »
THE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS IN HONG KONG ARE BEING UPGRADED TO MAKE THE TERRITORY FREE OF MARINE WATER POLLUTION AND FLOODING AT AN ESTIMATED COST OF ABOUT $20 BILLION OVER THE NEXT 10 YEARS.
THIS WAS STATED BY THE DIRECTOR OF DRAINAGE SERVICES, MR SIU CHUEN, AT A LUNCHEON OF THE Y’S MEN’S CLUB OF HONG KONG TODAY (THURSDAY).
OUTLINING THE SERVICES OF THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, MR SIU SAID THE DEPARTMENT WAS TASKED TO PROVIDE AN EFFICIENT APPROACH TO RESOLVING THE SEWAGE AND FLOODING PROBLEMS IN HONG KONG.
/"THEREFORE, ITS
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
8
"THEREFORE, ITS RESPONSIBILITIES ARE TO DESIGN, CONSTRUCT, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN THE SEWERAGE, SEWAGE TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL, AND LAND STORMWATER DRAINAGE INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE TERRITORY.
"THE DEPARTMENT IS COMMITTED TO A PROGRAMME OF WORKS TO UPGRADE THESE SYSTEMS TO MAKE HONG KONG FREE OF MARINE WATER POLLUTION AND FLOODS AS FAR AS POSSIBLE AT AN ESTIMATED COST OF ABOUT $20 BILLION OVER THE NEXT 10 YEARS," HE NOTED.
POINTING OUT THAT DRAINAGE HAS ALWAYS BEEN AN IMPORTANT ASPECT OF THE INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN HONG KONG, MR SIU SAID PROOF OF THE DRAINAGE SYSTEM’S GENERAL EFFECTIVENESS LAY IN THE FACT THAT THE STREETS WERE FREE OF SEWAGE AND STORMWATER DRAINS FILLED RAPIDLY IN HEAVY RAIN.
"THE MAJOR STEPS TAKEN IN RECENT TIMES HAVE BEEN THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF SEWERAGE MASTER PLANS IN VARIOUS PARTS OF THE TERRITORY TO STRENGTHEN THE SEWAGE COLLECTION SYSTEM.
"A STRATEGIC SEWAGE DISPOSAL SCHEME AIMING AT AN OCEANIC DISPOSAL OF TREATED SEWAGE, AWAY FROM OUR HARBOUR AND BATHING WATER, IS NOW BEING DEVELOPED FOR IMPLEMENTATION COMMENCING IN 1994.
"A MASSIVE DRAINAGE SCHEME TO ALLEVIATE THE PROBLEMS OF iLOODING IN THE NORTHWEST NEW TERRITORIES IS NOW IN HAND," HE SAID.
MR SIU POINTED OUT THAT HIS DEPARTMENT WAS ENDEAVOURING TO OVIDE THE BEST SERVICES POSSIBLE.
"OUT PLEDGE IS TO EXPEDITIOUSLY ATTEND TO PUBLIC COMPLAINTS ON DRAINAGE MATTERS, FOR EXAMPLE, BY CLEARING BLOCKED DRAINS AND PROCESSING THE APPLICATIONS FOR DRAINAGE CONNECTIONS FOR PRIVATE DEVELOPMENTS PROMPTLY," HE CONCLUDED.
------0-------
EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS FOR JUNE
*****
THE CENSUS AND DETAILED STATISTICS COUNTRY/TERRITORY AND
STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) RELEASED
ON EXTERNAL TRADE WITH BREAKDOWN BY COMMODITY FOR JUNE THIS YEAR.
THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS IN JUNE 1993, SHOWED AN INCREASE OF 13% OVER JUNE 1992, DOMESTIC EXPORTS, $18,509 MILLION, DECREASED BY OF COMPARISON.
AT $67,041 MILLION, WHEREAS THE VALUE OF 12% ON THE SAME BASIS
COMPARING JUNE 1993 WITH JUNE 1992, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA, SINGAPORE, GERMANY, JAPAN, THE UNITED KINGDOM, THE UNITED STATES AND FRANCE INCREASED SUBSTANTIALLY, BY 28%, 17%, 17%, 17%, 16% 12% AND 11% RESPECTIVELY. THAT TO CANADA INCREASED SLIGHTLY BY 2.9%.*
HOWEVER, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO TAIWAN AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA DECREASED BY 19% AND 1.3% RESPECTIVELY.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR DESTINATIONS ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 1.
/THE VALUE .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
9
THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WAS $375,789 MILLION, BEING 22% HIGHER THAN THAT IN THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
COMPARING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO MOST OF THE MAJOR DESTINATIONS : CHINA (+36%), SINGAPORE (+25%), THEUNITED KINGDOM (+24%), GERMANY (+22%), THE UNITED STATES (+22%), FRANCE (+19%), JAPAN (+15%), CANADA (+10%) AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+3.9%).
HOWEVER, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO TAIWAN DECREASED BY 18%.
TABLE 2 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
COMPARING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD TN 1992, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS OF ALL MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
MORE NOTABLE INCREASES WERE REGISTERED FOR ROAD VEHICLES (BY $10,483 MILLION OR 168%); TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $7,207 MILLION OR 31%); ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $6,862 MILLION OR 29%); FOOTWEAR (BY $6,605 MILLION OR 42%); MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $5,398 MILLION OR 13%); CLOTHING (BY $4,736 MILLION OR 14%); AND TEXTILES (BY $678 MILLION OR 2.1%).
AS REGARDS DOMESTIC EXPORTS, INCREASES OF 3.6% AND 1.6% IN VALUE WERE RECORDED FOR THOSE TO MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE RESPECTIVELY WHEN COMPARING JUNE 1993 WITH JUNE 1992.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO OTHER MAJOR DESTINATIONS : TAIWAN (-26%), JAPAN (-21%), THE NETHERLANDS (-20%), THE UNITED STATES (-16%), THE UNITED KINGDOM (-16%), CHINA (-8.0%), GERMANY (-5.6%) AND CANADA (-4.7%).
THE DECLINES IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA AND THE UNITED STATES WERE HOWEVER PARTLY AFFECTED BY HIGH BASE OF COMPARISON IN JUNE LAST YEAR.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR DESTINATIONS ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 3.
COMPARING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO SINGAPORE, MALAYSIA AND CHINA INCREASED BY 15%, 15% AND 7.6% RESPECTIVELY.
HOWEVER, DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO OTHER MAJOR DESTINATIONS : THE UNITED KINGDOM (-14%), JAPAN (-11%), THE NETHERLANDS (-11%), CANADA (-9.8%), TAIWAN (-8.9%), THE UNITED STATES (-8.9%) AND GERMANY (-8.2%).
FOR ALL DESTINATIONS TAKEN TOGETHER, THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, AT $103,182 MILLION, DECREASED BY 3.5% OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
/TABLE 4 .......
10
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
TABLE 4 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VAI,UE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF
THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
COMPARING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE REGISTERED FOR ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $1,602 MILLION OR 17%); TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $657 MILLION OR 11%); AND MACHINERY SPECIALIZED FOR PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES (BY $229 MILLION OR 15%).
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, DECREASES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE RECORDED FOR CLOTHING (BY $2,666 MILLION OR 8.3%); MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY JEWELLERY, GOLDSMITHS’ AND SILVERSMITHS’ WARES (BY $1,338 MILLION OR 12%); PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY $1,154 MILLION OR 13%); AND OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES (BY $937 MILLION OR 9.7%).
THE VALUE OF IMPORTS IN JUNE 1993 WAS $89,295 MILLION, INCREASING BY 5.5% OVER THAT IN JUNE 1992.
THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM THE 10 MAJOR SUPPLIERS ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 5.
COMPARING JUNE 1993 WITH JUNE 1992, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM MOST OF THE MAJOR SUPPLIERS: ITALY (+17%), GERMANY (+14%), JAPAN (+10%), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+8.0%), MALAYSIA (+5.2%), TAIWAN (+4.3%), CHINA (+3.8%) AND SINGAPORE (+3.3%).
HOWEVER, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM THE UNITED STATES AND THE UNITED KINGDOM DECREASED BY 8.2% AND 4.1% RESPECTIVELY.
COMPARING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM ALL THE MAJOR SUPPLIERS INCREASED: MALAYSIA (+25%), THE UNITED STATES (+21%), SINGAPORE (+21%), GERMANY (+21%), ITALY (+19%), JAPAN (+17%), CHINA (+12%), TAIWAN (+10%), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+8.7%) AND THE UNITED KINGDOM (+7.0%).
THE VALUE OF IMPORTS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WAS $506,726 MILLION, AN INCREASE OF 14% OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
TABLE 6 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
COMPARING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS OF MOST MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS.
MORE NOTABLE INCREASES WERE REGISTERED FOR ROAD VEHICLES (BY $16,196 MILLION OR 124%); ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $9,275 MILLION OR 22%); TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $5,892 MILLION OR 17%); FOOTWEAR (BY $5,305 MILLION OR 38%); CLOTHING (BY $4,405 MILLION OR 12%); AND MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $3,638 MILLION OR 11%).
/OVER THE .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
11
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, A DECREASE IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS WAS RECORDED FOR TEXTILES (BY $2,081 MILLION OR 4.1%).
ALL THE TRADE STATISTICS DESCRIBED HERE ARE MEASURED AT CURRENT PRICES AND NO ACCOUNT HAS BEEN TAKEN OF THE CHANGES IN PRICES BETWEEN THE PERIODS OF COMPARISON.
A SEPARATE ANALYSIS OF THE VOLUME AND PRICE MOVEMENTS OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR JUNE 1993 WILL BE RELEASED IN EARLY SEPTEMBER.
DETAILED TRADE STATISTICS ANALYSED BY COMMODITY AND BY COUNTRY/TERRITORY ARE PUBLISHED IN TRADE STATISTICS REPORTS.
THE JUNE 1993 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE" WITH DETAILED ANALYSES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE IN JUNE 1993 WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT $68.50 A COPY AROUND AUGUST 24.
THE REPORT CAN BE BOUGHT AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, OR AT THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON THE 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI .
ENQUIRIES ABOUT REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION TO THE REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG (TEL 842 8802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE STATISTICS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL 582 4915) .
TABLE 1 : RE-EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR DESTINATIONS
DESTINATION JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) JUN 93 OVER JUN 92 JAN-JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) JAN-JUN 93 OVER JAN-JUN 92
(% । CHANGE) (% CHANGE)
CHINA 23,520 + 28.4 129,354 4- 35.9
UNITED STATES 15,103 + 12.4 78,080 + 22.2
JAPAN 3,199 + 16.7 18,724 + 14.7
GERMANY 3,203 + 16.8 18,275 + 22.2
TAIWAN 1,669 - 19.0 10,846 - 18.1
UNITED KINGDOM 2,034 + 16.2 10,226 + 24.1
SINGAPORE 1 , 362 + 17.1 8,102 + 25.5
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 1, 105 - 1.3 7,160 + 3.9
FRANCE 1,018 + 10.7 6, 192 + 18.8
CANADA 1,060 + 2.9 5,670 + 10.2
/TABLE 2 .......
THURSDAY, AUGSUT 12, 1993
- 12
TABLE 2 : RE-EXPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) JUN 93 OVER JUN 92 (% CHANGE) JAN-JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) JAN-JUN 93 OVER JAN-JUN 92 (% CHANGE)
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 8,675 + 2.2 45,513 + 13.5
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 7,128 + 6.6 39,204 + 13.7
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 5,999 - 5.7 33,396 + 2.1
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 6,044 + 28.8 30,825 + 30.5
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 5,304 + 18.6 30,582 + 28.9
FOOTWEAR 4,086 + 30.7 22,174 + 42.4
ROAD VEHICLES 2,742 +118.9 16,734 +167.7
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 3,067 + 19.8 16,493 + 20.8
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 2,062 + 15.4 12,763 + 33.2
TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR CONTAINERS 2,317 + 5.3 12,652 + 9.4
/TABLE 3 .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
13 -
TABLE 3 : DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR DESTINATIONS
DESTINATION JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) (% JUN 93 OVER JUN 92 CHANGE) JAN-JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) JAN-JUN 93 OVER JAN-JUN 92 (% CHANGE)
CHINA 5,355 - 8.0 30,660 + 7.6
UNITED STATES 5,035 - 16.3 25,550 - 8.9
GERMANY 1,357 - 5.6 6,329 - 8.2
SINGAPORE 853 + 1.6 5,455 + 15.1
UNITED KINGDOM 915 - 15.8 4,840 - 13.7
JAPAN 706 - 20.7 4,754 - 11.4
TAIWAN 395 - 26.4 2,875 - 8.9
NETHERLANDS 390 - 19.8 2,111 - 10.9
CANADA 423 - 4.7 2,111 - 9.8
MALAYSIA 205 + 3.6 1,372 + 14.7
/TABLE 4 .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
14
TABLE 4 : DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) JUN 93 OVER JUN 92 (% CHANGE) JAN-JUN JAN-JUN 93
1993 (HK$ MN) OVER JAN-JUN 92 (% CHANGE)
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 6,404 - 9.0 29,555 co 00 1
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 1 ,794 + 1.6 10,844 + 17.3
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY JEWELLERY, GOLDSMITHS’ AND SILVERSMITHS’ WARES) 1,692 - 14.3 9,391 % - 12.5
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 1 , 148 - 39.7 8,690 - 9.7
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 1,332 - 16.6 8,141 - 3.9
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 1,270 - 21.2 7,705 - 13.0
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 1,172 - 3.0 6,717 + 10.8
MANUFACTURES OF METALS 360 - 17.6 2,216 - 7.6
PLASTICS IN PRIMARY FORMS 361 + 3.7 1,755 + 1.7
MACHINERY SPECIALISED FOR PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES 263 + 9.6 1,749 + 15.0
/TABLE 5 .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
- 15 -
TABLE 5 : IMPORTS FROM THE 10 MAJOR SUPPLIERS
SUPPLIER JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) JUN 93 OVER JUN 92 (% CHANGE) JAN-JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) JAN-JUN 93 OVER JAN-JUN 92 (% CHANGE)
CHINA 32,324 + 3.8 180,554 + 11.9
JAPAN 15,619 + 10.0 88,162 + 16.6
TAIWAN 7,904 + 4.3 45,047 + 10.3
UNITED STATES 6,426 - 8.2 38,998 + 21.2
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 4,367 + 8.0 24,026 + 8.7
SINGAPORE 3,946 + 3.3 22,288 + 21.0
GERMANY 2, 172 + 14.2 12,245 + 20.6
UNITED KINGDOM 1 ,671 - 4.1 9,966 + 7.0
ITALY 1,317 + 16.6 7,923 + 19.2
MALAYSIA 1,251 + 5.2 7,482 + 24.7
/TABLE 6
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
16
TABLE 6 : IMPORTS OF THE 10 MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISIONS
COMMODITY DIVISION JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) JUN 93 OVER JUN 92 (% CHANGE) JAN-JUN 1993 (HK$ MN) JAN JAN (% -JUN 93 OVER -JUN 92 CHANGE)
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 9,300 + 9.0 52,406 + 21.5
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 8,461 - 9.1 49,009 4.1
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING V.D REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 7,187 + 18.0 39,711 + 17.4
k.ICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ( CESSORIES 7,103 + 3.7 39,673 + 12.5
iSCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 6,607 - 1 .3 35,289 + 11.5
ROAD VEHICLES 5,415 +134.0 29,283 +123.8
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 4,068 + 1.0 22,897 + 6.7
FOOTWEAR 3,484 + 30.8 19,439 + 37.5
GENERAL INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT, AND MACHINE PARTS 2,870 - 1.0 17,354 + 25.4
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 2,743 - 10.4 16,975 + 8.2
0 - - - - /17
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
- 17 -
STAGE III OF FORM 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE BEGINS TOMORROW *****
STAGE II OF THE SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE ENDED AT 3.30 PM TODAY (THURSDAY) AND STAGE III WILL BEGIN TOMORROW.
A TOTAL OF 4,575 SECONDARY 5 LEAVERS SCORING 14 POINTS OR MORE WERE SUCCESSFUL IN GETTING MOST OF 9,687 SECONDARY 6 PLACES LEFT OVER FROM THE TOTAL NUMBER OF 23,200 PLACES AVAILABLE, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID.
HE SAID THERE WERE STILL 5,112 SECONDARY 6 PLACES AVAILABLE.
THE SPOKESMAN REMINDED DAY-SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH RESULTS THAT SATISFIED THE MINIMUM A-LEVEL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS THAT THEY MAY APPLY TO THEIR OWN OR LINKED SCHOOL IF IT STILL HAD VACANCIES BEFORE 3.30 PM TOMORROW.
APPLICATION RESULTS WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON THE SAME DAY.
PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOL STUDENTS AND PAST STUDENTS SHOULD NOT APPLY AT THIS STAGE, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
---------0-----------
MORE ENQUIRIES ON HKCEE RECEIVED *****
UP TO 5.30 PM TODAY (THURSDAY), THE CAREERS AND GUIDANCE SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAS RECEIVED 453 VISITORS AND HANDLED 209 TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES ON MATTERS RELATED TO THE RELEASE OF THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION RESULTS, AN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
THIS BRINGS TO 1,538 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VISITORS AND 923 CALLERS WHO TELEPHONED THE CENTRE SINCE THE RELEASE OF THE RESULTS ON TUESDAY (AUGUST 10).
THE CAREERS EDUCATION CENTRE IN ROOM 206 OF THE MONG KOK GOVERNMENT OFFICES AT 30 LUEN WAN STREET, MONG KOK, PROVIDES STUDENTS WITH MATERIALS ON OPPORTUNITIES FOR FURTHER STUDIES AND TRAINING, AND INFORMATION ON VARIOUS PROFESSIONS.
THE CENTRE WILL EXTEND ITS OPENING HOURS WITHOUT A BREAK FROM 8.45 AM TO 5.30 PM UNT1L TOMORROW (FRI DAY).
MEANWHILE, THE DEPARTMENT’S 24-HOUR AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE ENQUIRY SERVICE HAS RECEIVED MORE THAN 5,500 CALLERS SINCE MONDAY (AUGUST 9) -- ONE DAY BEFORE THE START OF STAGE I OF THE SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE.
- - 0 - -
/18........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
18
COURT OF INT’L TRADE’S DECISION ON SWEATER [IMPORTS * * * * *
COMMENTING ON THE U.S. COURT OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE’S DECISION YESTERDAY (WEDNESDAY) TO UPHOLD THE DETERMINATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION (ITC) THAT IMPORTS OF MAN-MADE FIBRE SWEATERS FROM HONG KONG, SOUTH KOREA AND TAIWAN DID NOT INJURE THE U.S. SWEATER INDUSTRY, THE ASSITANT DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF TRADE, MR PETER S T PANG, SAID TODAY: "THIS IS VERY GOOD NEWS FOR HONG KONG."
"IT REFLECTS THE SUBSTANTIAL EFFORT MADE BY THE HONG KONG SWEATER TRADE, IN CO-OPERATION WITH THE GOVERNMENT, TO DEFEND HONG KONG’S TRADE INTERESTS. IT BRINGS US ONE STEP CLOSER TO THE ABOLITION OF THE ANTI-DUMPING DUTY."
"THIS IS NOT THE END OF THE CASE YET," HE ADDED. "THE PETITIONER MAY TAKE THE CASE TO THE U.S. COURT OF APPEAL FOR THE FEDERAL CIRCUIT WITHIN 60 DAYS."
MR PANG SAID IN THE MEANTIME, THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC) WOULD CONTINUE ITS ANNUAL ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW PROCEEDINGS.
HE SAID: "THE DOC IS EXPECTED TO ISSUE THE PRELIMINARY RESULTS
THE FIRST REVIEW ANY DAY NOW. BOTH THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AND HIE SWEATER INDUSTRY WILL CONTINUE TO DEFEND OUR TRADING INTERESTS IF THE RESULTS ARE UNREASONABLE."
IN SEPTEMBER 1990, DOC ISSUED AN ANT I-DUMPING ORDER REQUIRING U.S. IMPORTERS OF MAN-MADE FIBRE SWEATERS FROM HONG KONG TO PAY ANTI-DUMPING DUTY AT A RATE OF 5.86 PER CENT.
IN JULY 1992, THE U.S. COURT OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE (CIT) HANDED DOWN A RULING ON THE CONSOLIDATED APPEALS BROUGHT BY HONG KONG, TAIWAN AND SOUTH KOREA COMPANIES AGAINST ITC’S INJURY DETERMINATION.
THE CIT’S DECISION WAS THAT THE ITC’S INJURY DETERMINATION WAS NOT SUPPORTED BY SUBSTANTIAL EVIDENCE OR OTHERWISE NOT IN ACCORDANCE WITH LAW.
THE ITC WAS MANDATED TO REVIEW THE INJURY DETERMINATION AND IT SUBSEQUENTLY REPORTED A "NO INJURY" DETERMINATION TO CIT IN NOVEMBER 1992. CIT UPHELD THIS "NO INJURY" DETERMINATION YESTERDAY.
- - 0 - -
/19........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
19
JOB BAZAAR ATTRACTS 1,400 JOB-SEEKERS
*****
MORE THAN 1,400 JOB-SEEKERS VISITED THE JOB BAZAAR ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT IN TSUEN WAN TOWN HALL WHICH HELPS WORKERS AND LOCAL RESIDENTS LOOK FOR JOBS UNDER THE ON-THE-JOB TRAINING SCHEME (OJT) SET UP BY THE EMPLOYEES RETRAINING BOARD (ERB).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THE BAZAAR PROVIDED AN OPPORTUNITY FOR EMPLOYERS AND POTENTIAL EMPLOYEES TO MAKE DIRECT CONTACT AND DISCUSS ABOUT JOB VACANCIES AND EMPLOYMENT.
"AT THE BAZAAR, VACANCIES OFFERED BY THE 153 OJT EMPLOYERS WERE ALSO MADE AVAILABLE BY THE STAFF OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (LES) TO HELP JOB-SEEKERS SELECT THEIR JOBS," HE SAID.
THE LES STAFF ALSO GAVE TALKS ON RELATED TRADES AND PROVIDED JOB COUNSELLING TO ABOUT 400 JOB-SEEKERS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID TWO ROOMS WERE ARRANGED FOR THE 18 PARTICIPATING EMPLOYERS TO CONDUCT SELECTION INTERVIEWS.
"A TOTAL OF 900 REFERRALS WERE MADE ON-THE-SPOT FOR JOB-SEEKERS TO MEET THEIR POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE SAID THE NEXT JOB BAZAAR WAS SCHEDULED TO BE HELD AT THE SHA TIN TOWN HALL ON AUGUST 31.
EMPLOYERS WHO ARE INTERESTED TO PARTICIPATE CAN CONTACT THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ON 604 7916-9 FOR DETAILS.
-----0-----
BEACH WATER GRADES
*****
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) ANNOUNCED GRADES OF THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF ALL BATHING BEACHES IN HONG KONG.
THE PURPOSE IS TO INFORM SWIMMERS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC ABOUT THE STATE OF BACTERIOLOGICAL POLLUTION AT VARIOUS BEACHES.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE GRADING WOULD BE ANNOUNCED BIWEEKLY DURING THE BATHING SEASON, TO COINCIDE WITH THE FREQUENCY AT WHICH BEACH WATER WAS USUALLY SAMPLED.
THE GRADING IS BASED ON THE MOST RECENT E. COLI DATA OBTAINED BY THE DEPARTMENT IN ITS ROUTINE MONITORING PROGRAMME.
AS WITH LAST YEAR, THE GRADING ALSO INCLUDES AN ESTIMATE OF THE RISK OF SUFFERING SOME MINOR SKIN OR GASTROINTESTINAL COMPLAINTS AS A RESULT OF SWIMMING AT A BEACH THAT HAS SOME DEGREE OF POLLUTION.
THE ESTIMATE IS BASED ON A VERY LARGE BODY OF STATISTICAL INFORMATION GATHERED IN HONG KONG IN RECENT BATHING SEASONS.
THE GRADING .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
20
THE GRADING OF SOME BEACHES MAY VARY DURING THE SUMMER. THIS REPRESENTS A NATURAL FLUCTUATION IN THE BACTERIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF BATHING WATER IN MOST CASES, AS RAIN AND TIDES BRING MORE OR LESS POLLUTION TO THE BEACHES.
HOWEVER, THE GRADES GIVE A GOOD GENERAL PICTURE OF THE WATER QUALITY AT BATHING BEACHES AT THE TIME OF REPORTING AND FORM THE BEST AVAILABLE FORECAST FOR THE IMMEDIATE FUTURE.
"BEACHES WITH HIGHLY DEVELOPED HINTERLANDS ARE LIKELY TO BE MORE POLLUTED THAN THE GRADES SUGGEST DURING AND AFTER HEAVY RAIN.
"BATHERS SHOULD AVOID SUCH BEACHES FOR TWO OR THREE DAYS AFTER A STORM, LONGER IF THE WEATHER REMAINS OVERCAST OR LESS IF THERE IS STRONG SUNSHINE." THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE SYSTEM FOR GRADING BEACH WATER QUALITY IS:
* GRADE "1" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS GOOD. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 24 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED RISK OF MINOR ILLNESS TO SWIMMERS IS UNDETECTABLE.
* GRADE "2" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS FAIR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 180 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS NO MORE THAN 10 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
* GRADE "3" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS POOR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 610 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS NO MORE THAN 15 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
* GRADE "4" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS VERY POOR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS MORE THAN 610 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS MORE THAN 15 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
THE DECISION ON WHETHER OR NOT TO CLOSE A BEACH TO SWIMMERS IS BASED ON A JUDGMENT OF WHAT DEGREE OF POLLUTION IS ACCEPTABLE.
NORMALLY, THE CLOSURE OF A BEACH WOULD ONLY BE CONSIDERED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL OR REGIONAL COUNCIL IF A GRADE "4" OCCURRED REPEATEDLY, SO THAT THE AVERAGE HEALTH RISK OVER THE BATHING SEASON EXCEEDED 15 CASES PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
AT PRESENT, TWO BATHING BEACHES, CASTLE PEAK AND OLD CAFETERIA, HAVE BEEN DECLARED UNSUITABLE FOR SWIMMING, BASED ON THE WATER QUALITY DURING PAST SEASONS.
THEY ARE POLLUTED BY FAECAL WASTE. THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED NOT TO SWIM AT THE TWO BEACHES.
IN ADDITION, ROCKY BAY BEACH HAS BEEN CLOSED FOR SWIMMING BY THE URBAN COUNCIL. THE THREE BEACHES ARE IDENTIFIED BY AN "X" IN THE FOLLOWING LIST.
/THE GRADES .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
21
THE GRADES ON THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF VARIOUS
BEACHES TODAY ARE LISTED BELOW:
BEACH
PREVIOUS GRADING
PRESENT GRADING
(AS AT 29.7.93) (AS AT 12.8.93)
SAI KUNG DISTRICT
CAMPERS
CLEAR WATER BAY 1ST BEACH
CLEAR WATER BAY 2ND BEACH
HAP MUN BAY
KIU TSUI
PAK SHA CHAU SILVERSTRAND TRIO (HEBE HAVEN)
1 2
2
1 1
1
2 2
1 1
1 1
1 1
2
1
ISLANDS DISTRICT
CHEUNG SHA UPPER CHEUNG SHA LOWER DISCOVERY BAY* HUNG SHING YEH KWUN YAM WAN TONG FUK LO SO SHING PUI O SILVERMINE BAY TUNG WAN, CHEUNG CHAU TUNG O*
1
3
2
1
1
1
1
2
3
1
2
1
3 2
1
1
1
1
2 2
1
2
HONG KONG SOUTH
BIG WAVE BAY 3
CHUNG HOM KOK 1
DEEP WATER BAY 2
HAIRPIN 3
MIDDLE BAY 2
REPULSE BAY 1
SHEK O 3
SOUTH BAY 1
ST STEPHEN’S 1
TURTLE COVE 2
STANLEY MAIN 2
ROCKY BAY X
TO TEI WAN* 2
2
1
2
2
2 1
3
1 1
2 2 X
2
/TUEN MUN .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
- 22 -
TUEN MUN DISTRICT
OLD CAFETERIA NEW CAFETERIA CASTLE PEAK KADOORIE BUTTERFLY
X 3
X 4
3
X 3 X
4
3
TSUEN WAN DISTRICT
ANGLERS’ 4 4
APPROACH 3 3
CASAM 3 3
GEMINI 3 3
HOI MEI WAN 3 3
LIDO 3 3
TING KAU 4 4
TUNG WAN, MA WAN 3 2
NOTE: ”X” THE BEACH HAS BEEN CLOSED FOR SWIMMING
* NON-GAZETTED BEACH
THE FOLLOWING BEACHES HAVE CHANGED GRADING ON THIS OCCASION:
BIG WAVE BAY, HAIRPIN, S1LVERMINE BAY AND TUNG WAN, MA WAN FROM ”3” TO ”2"; CLEAR WATER BAY 1ST BEACH, CLEAR WATER BAY 2ND BEACH AND TRIO (HEBE HAVEN) FROM ”2” TO ”1”
ALL OF THE CHANGES ARE WITHIN THE NORMAL RANGE OF THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF THE BEACHES.
OF FLUCTUATION
NOTE TO EDITORS:
FOR FURTHER ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT MR K F TANG PRINCIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICER ON TEL 835 1234.
ACTING
---------0---------
/23........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 1993
- 23 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS * » » * *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,330
REVERSAL OF LAF +670
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -530
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,470
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.5 *+0.0» 12.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.28 PCT 12 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.72 3.68
1 MONTH 2.96 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 100.98 3.85
3 MONTHS 3.10 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.00 4.10
6 MONTHS 3.26 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 3.75 99.00 4.39
12 MONTHS 3.71 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 13,012 MN
CLOSED 12 AUGUST 1993
- - 0 - -
Received by PRO
■ W on________________
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVT STAFF KEEP IN TOUCH ON LOCALISATION ................. 1
RESPONSE TO NCNA REMARKS ................................. 2
NO RELAXATION FOR MORTGAGE LENDING ....................... 2
EAST LAMMA CHANNEL DREDGING WORKS AUTHORISED ............. 3
ROAD NETWORK PROPOSED FOR TUNG CHUNG NEW TOWN ............ 4
TENDERS FOR SEWER CONSTRUCTION INVITED ................... 4
FUK CHAK STREET TO BE REBUILT ............................ 5
RESUMPTION AND REPAIR OF MERCURY STREET .................. 6
UPDATE ON HKCEE-RELATED ENQUIRIES ........................ 6
S6 ADMISSION ............................................. 7
AIR QUALITY REPORT FOR JULY .............................. 7
HK DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK BEGINS ............... 9
ENERGY STATISTICS REPORT ON SALE ......................... 10
HEALTH EDUCATION CENTRE TO START OPERATION ............... 11
TENDERS CALLED FOR SCHOOLS ............................... 12
LUK KENG ROAD TO UNDERGO IMPROVEMENTS .................... 13
NEW PREMISES FOR MONG KOK POST OFFICE .................... 13
REVISED FEE FOR VALUATION LIST DATA ...................... 14
FARM LAND TO BE RESUMED FOR DRAINAGE WORKS ............... 14
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
15
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
- 1 -
GOVT STAFF KEEP IN TOUCH ON LOCALISATION
*****
THE GOVERNMENT AND THE HONG KONG CHINESE CIVIL SERVANTS ASSOCIATION ARE WILLING TO MAINTAIN A DIALOGUE WITH EACH OTHER ON THE LOCALISATION POLICY, THE SECRETARY FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE, MRS ANSON CHAN, SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER A MEETING OF THE SENIOR CIVIL SERVICE COUNCIL, WHICH SHE DESCRIBED AS "A GOOD MEETING," MRS CHAN SAID:
"I TOOK THE OPPORTUNITY TO STRESS THAT THE MANAGEMENT HOPES TO MAINTAIN A DIALOGUE WITH THE STAFF ASSOCIATIONS ON THE CURRENT CONTROVERSY SURROUNDING OUR POLICY OF ALLOWING OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS TO APPLY FOR TRANSFER TO LOCAL TERMS."
"I WAS VERY GLAD TO HEAR FROM THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE HONG KONG CHINESE CIVIL SERVANTS ASSOCIATION THAT THEY, TOO, WOULD LIKE TO MAINTAIN A DIALOGUE WITH THE MANAGEMENT," SHE SAID.
MRS CHAN SAID SHE HAD ALREADY MET REPRESENTATIVES OF TWO STAFF ASSOCIATIONS AND SHE REMAINED HAPPY TO MEET REPRESENTATIVES OF OTHER STAFF ASSOCIATIONS.
IN ADDITION, HEADS OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS WILL, IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS, BE SEEING THEIR OWN PROFESSIONAL STAFF ASSOCIATIONS TO DISCUSS WITH THEM THEIR SPECIFIC CONCERNS AND TO SEE IN WHAT WAYS STAFF CONCERNS CAN BE MET.
SHE STRESSED THAT IN THE BULK OF THE 70-ODD GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NO PROBLEM POSED BY THE CHANGE RECENTLY ANNOUNCED.
"WE HAVE IDENTIFIED 10 DEPARTMENTS WHERE, ON THE FACE OF IT, THERE MAY BE SPECIFIC STAFF CONCERNS," MRS CHAN SAID.
THESE DEPARTMENT ARE THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES, BUILDINGS, LANDS, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, CIVIL ENGINEERING, HOUSING, LEGAL, LEGAL AID, TRANSPORT, AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DEPARTMENTS.
"WE WILL BE MEETING WITH STAFF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS TO TRY TO ADDRESS SPECIFIC CONCERNS IN SPECIFIC DEPARTMENTS," SHE SAID.
COMMENTING ON REPORTS THAT THE SENIOR NON-EXPATRIATE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION (SNEOA) PLANS TO SUE THE GOVERNMENT, MRS CHAN SAID SHE REGRETTED THE SNEOA HAD FOUND IT NECESSARY TO TAKE THE GOVERNMENT TO COURT.
"I HOPE VERY MUCH THAT THEY WILL NOT ACT IN THE HEAT OF THE MOMENT, THAT THEY WILL TRY TO ADDRESS THE SPECIFIC CONCERNS IN SPECIFIC DEPARTMENTS AND CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN A DIALOGUE WITH US," SHE SAID.
THE SECRETARY REITERATED THAT TRANSFER OF OVERSEAS AGREEMENT OFFICERS TO LOCAL TERMS IS NOT AUTOMATIC.
/•'AN ELIGIBLE.......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
- 2
”AN ELIGIBLE OFFICER, FIRST OF ALL, HAS TO APPLY,” SHE SAID.
’’WHETHER HE IS SUCCESSFUL IN HIS APPLICATION WILL DEPEND ON THE ADMINISTRATION MAKING THE DECISION BASED ON SERVICE NEEDS AND THE OFFICERS’ PERFORMANCE AND ON WHETHER HE IS PHYSICALLY FIT,” MRS CHAN SAID.
------0-------
RESPONSE TO NCNA REMARKS
*****
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES ABOUT REMARKS REPORTED TO HAVE BEEN MADE BY A NEW CHINA NEWS AGENCY OFFICIAL TODAY, A HONG KONG GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID:
"THE REMARKS ATTRIBUTED TO DENG XIAOPING WERE MADE BEFORE THE SIGNING OF THE JOINT DECLARATION.
UNDER THE TERMS OF THE JOINT DECLARATION, CHINA WILL RESUME SOVEREIGNTY ON JULY 1, 1997. BEFORE THEN, THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF HONG KONG."
------0--------
NO RELAXATION FOR MORTGAGE LENDING *****
THE ACTING FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR DONALD TSANG, (FRIDAY) THAT THE GUIDELINE OF A 70 PER CENT MORTGAGE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES SHOULD REMAIN IN FORCE.
SAID TODAY
CEILING FOR
HE SAID THERE WAS NO TRUTH IN A THAT THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY HAD AGREED PUT FORTH BY THE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS CEILING FOR GENUINE HOME-BUYERS.
NEWSPAPER REPORT WHICH SAID IN PRINCIPLE TO A PROPOSAL ASSOCIATION TO RELAX MORTGAGE
MR TSANG SAID THE 70 PER CENT MORTGAGE CEILING HAD HELPED CURB EXCESSIVE SPECULATION AND THERE WAS NO REASON WHY THERE SHOULD BE A RELAXATION AT THIS STAGE.
AT A MAY 27 THE SYMPATHETIC NOTED.
MEETING WITH THE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS ASSOCIATION ON FINANCIAL SECRETARY, MR HAMISH MACLEOD, SAID HE WAS TO THE PROBLEM FACED BY FIRST-TIME HOME-BUYERS, MR TSANG
"BUT MR MACLEOD HAS MADE IT CLEAR TO THE ASSOCIATION IS DIFFICULT TO DEFINE FIRST-TIME HOME-BUYERS AND TO DEVISE A MORTGAGE LENDING PACKAGE FOR THEM," MR TSANG SAID.
MR TSANG POINTED OUT THAT MR MACLEOD HAD REITERATED MEETING THAT HE COULD NOT SEE ANY JUSTIFICATION TO RELAX THE
THAT IT
SPECIAL
AT THE
BEARING IN MIND THE EFFECT THIS WOULD HAVE ON THE PROPERTY MARKET. ’
/THE ACTING .......
3
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
THE ACTING FINANCIAL SECRETARY STRESSED THAT THE BANKING SECTOR WAS FIRMLY BACKING THE 70 PER CENT CEILING AS BANKS WERE CONCERNED ABOUT THEIR EXPOSURE TO THE PROPERTY MARKET.
"THERE IS ALSO WIDE PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR THIS MEASURE," HE ADDED.
-----0-------
EAST LAMMA CHANNEL DREDGING WORKS AUTHORISED
*****
"HF EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HAS GIVEN AUTHORISATION TO DREDGE MARINE SAND WITHIN AN AREA OF 134 HECTARES OF SEABED IN THE EAST LAMMA CHANNEL.
THE AREA IS ONLY PART OF THE 939 HECTARES NOTIFIED IN THE GAZETTE IN 1991.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE LANDS DEPARTMENT SAID THE DREDGING WOULD Bl'. SUBJECT TO STRINGENT ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND THE HIGHEST ’ERATIONAL CONTROLS SO AS TO MINIMISE ANY IMPACT ON MARINE LIFE, ARBY BEACHES, SEA-WATER INTAKES AND FISH CULTURE ZONES.
"THE EFFECTIVENESS OF OPERATIONAL CONTROLS WILL BE CLOSELY ■OTuEEI). IF NECESSARY, MITIGATION MEASURES, INCLUDING CESSATION OF DGING, WILL BE ADOPTED TO KEEP IMPACTS WITHIN ACCEPTABLE LEVELS.
"A COMPREHENSIVE CONTROL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN BE DRAWN UP TO THE SATISFACTION OF THE GOVERNMENT," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREA AFFECTED IS DESCRIBED IN A NOTICE OF AUTHORISATION GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HIS INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED WILL BE AFFECTED BY THE WORKS MAY SEND A WRITTEN CLAIM FOR COMPENSATION TO THE DIRECTOR OF LANDS ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 13 NEXT YEAR.
THE NOTICE, TOGETHER WITH ITS RELATED PLAN, CAN BE SEEN AT:
* THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE OF THE LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, CENTRAL;
* SOUTHERN DISTRICT OFFICE, SHOP 25, GROUND FLOOR, MEI FUNG COURT, 7-11 NAM NING STREET, ABERDEEN;
* ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE, 20TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL;
ISLANDS DISTRICT LAND OFFICE, 19TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL; AND
* SOUTHERN DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, 20TH FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE, 130 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI.
COPIES OF THE PLAN CAN ALSO BE BOUGHT FROM THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE.
--------0 - -
/4 ........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
ROAD NETWORK PROPOSED FOR TUNG CHUNG NEW TOWN
* * * * t
THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT PROPOSES TO CARRY OUT ROAD WORKS REQUIRED FOR PHASE I DEVELOPMENT OF THE TUNG CHUNG NEW TOWN, AN AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME PROJECT WHICH WILL HOUSE ABOUT 20,000 PEOPLE BY 1997.
THE WORKS WILL INVOLVE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A ROAD NETWORK WITH CONNECTIONS TO THE NORTH LANTAU EXPRESSWAY VIA TWO INTERCHANGES, AND TO THE SOUTH SIDE OF CHEK LAP KOK ISLAND VIA A HIGHWAY BRIDGE.
THE PROPOSAL ALSO INCLUDES THE CONSTRUCTION OF TRANSPORT INTERCHANGES, FOOTPATHS, CYCLE TRACKS, FOOTBRIDGE, SUBWAYS, BICYCLE PARKING AREAS AND ROADSIDE AMENITY AREAS.
A NOTICE OF THE PROPOSED WORKS ISSUED UNDER THE ROADS (WORKS, USE AND COMPENSATION) ORDINANCE IS PUBLISHED IN THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE PLAN OF THE PROPOSED WORKS IS AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION AT THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE OF THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, THE ISLANDS DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE AND THE MUI WO SUB-OFFICE OF THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE.
ANY OBJECTION TO THE PROPOSED WORKS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN SITING TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT NOT LATER THAN OCTOBER 12, 1993. LN HIS SUBMISSION, A PERSON MUST STATE HIS INTEREST AND THE IANNBR IN WHICH HE MIGHT BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSAL.
------0--------
TENDERS FOR SEWER CONSTRUCTION INVITED
» * * » »
THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT WILL CONSTRUCT A NETWORK OF PUBLIC SEWERAGE SYSTEM IN TAN CHEUNG, PO LO CHE AND TUI MIN HOI, SAI KUNG TO IMPROVE THE SANITARY CONDITION OF UNSEWERED VILLAGES THERE.
THE SYSTEM WILL ALSO IMPROVE THE WATER QUALITY OF PORT SHELTER.
THE NOTICE FOR INVITING TENDERS FOR THE WORKS WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE WORKS INVOLVE THE LAYING OF ABOUT 5.2 KILOMETRES OF SEWERS WITH DIAMETERS RANGING FROM 225 MM TO 375 MM, WHICH WILL CONNECT WITH THE TERMINAL MANHOLES OF THE VILLAGE HOUSES WITHIN THE CATCHMENT.
THE WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO BEGIN IN NOVEMBER FOR COMPLETION IN TWO YEARS.
"UPON COMPLETION, SEWAGE GENERATED FROM TAN CHEUNG, PO LO CHE AND TUI MIN HOI WILL BE COLLECTED AND CONVEYED TO THE EXISTING SAI KUNG SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS FOR SECONDARY TREATMENT BEFORE ULTIMATE DISPOSAL TN PORT SHELTER THROUGH A SUBMARINE OUTFALL.
/"AS A .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
- 5 -
"AS A RESULT, THE POLLUTANTS CURRENTLY BEING DISCHARGED FROM THESE VILLAGES INTO PORT SHELTER WILL BE REDUCED," A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE NEW WORKS DIVISION, DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 44TH FLOOR, REVENUE TOWER, 5 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI.
CLOSING DATE FOR SUBMISSION OF TENDERS IS NOON ON SEPTEMBER 10.
-----0-------
FUK CHAK STREET TO BE REBUILT
*****
THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSES TO RECONSTRUCT FUK CHAK STREET AND THE NEARBY REAR LANES IN TAI KOK TSUI.
THE PROJECT COMPRISES THE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE EXISTING
CARRIAGEWAY AND FOOTWAY, CONSTRUCTION OF A TWO-METRE-WIDE FOOTWAY AT THE SOUTHERN SIDE OF FUK CHAK STREET AND IMPROVEMENT OF THE
ASSOCIATED DRA1 NAGE’/UNDERGROUND SERVICES.
AT PRESENT FUK CHAK STREET AND THE NEARBY REAR LANES ARE NOT
PROPERLY MAINTAINED AND MANAGED BECAUSE THEY ARE UNDER MULTIPLE
SUB-DIVIDED OWNERSHIP.
IT IS THEREFORE NECESSARY IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST TO RESUME THE PRIVATE STREET AND NEARBY REAR LANES TO ENSURE THEIR PROPER MAINTENANCE AND USE.
THE IMPROVEMENT WORK IS PROGRAMMED TO START IN DECEMBER NEXT YEAR AND WILL TAKE ABOUT FIVE MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
A NOTICE ON THE WORKS WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE PLAN AND SCHEME CAN BE SEEN AT THE FOLLOWING GOVERNMENT OFFICES DURING OFFICE HOURS:
* CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
* DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, KOWLOON WEST, YAU MA TEI CAR PARK BUILDING, 10TH FLOOR, 250 SHANGHAI STREET, KOWLOON; AND
* MONG KOK DISTRICT OFFICE, MONG KOK GOVERNMENT OFFICES, GROUND FLOOR, 30 LUEN WAN STREET, KOWLOON.
ANY PERSON OBJECTING TO THE PROPOSAL MUST SEND HIS OBJECTION IN WRITING TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, EAST WING, SECOND FLOOR, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG, NO LATER THAN OCTOBER 12 THIS YEAR.
--------0-----------
/6.........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
RESUMPTION AND REPAIR OF MERCURY STREET
* ♦ t * *
THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSES TO RESUME AND REPAIR PART OF MERCURY STREET IN THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF HONG KONG ISLAND.
THE STREET IS UNDER PRIVATE MULTIPLE OWNERSHIP AND IS NOT PROPERLY MANAGED OR MAINTAINED. AS A RESULT, THE ROAD IS IN POOR CONDITION AND PARTLY OCCUPIED BY STALLS THAT OBSTRUCT VEHICULAR AND PEDESTRIAN MOVEMENTS, CAUSING CONSIDERABLE ENVIRONMENTAL AND TRAFFIC PROBLEMS.
THE RESUMPTION WILL ENABLE THE GOVERNMENT TO REPAIR THE STREET TO A PROPER STANDARD AND IMPROVE THE TRAFFIC FLOW FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START BY MAY 1995.
A NOTICE ON THE PROPOSED WORKS WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE PLAN AND SCHEME SHOWING THE PROPOSED WORKS AND LAND RESUMPTION CAN BE SEEN AT:
* THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG;
* THE EASTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, 29 TAI ON STREET, GROUND FLOOR, EASTERN LAW COURTS BUILDING, SAI WAN HO, HONG KONG; AND
* THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, HONG KONG EAST, 19TH FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE, 130 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
ANY PERSON WHO WISHES TO OBJECT TO THE WORKS OR THE USE, OR BOTH, IS REQUIRED TO WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, SECOND FLOOR, EAST WING, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG NO LATER THAN OCTOBER 12 THIS YEAR.
- - 0 - -
UPDATE ON HKCEE-RELATED ENQUIRIES
* * ♦ ♦ *
UP TO 5.30 PM TODAY (FRIDAY), THE CAREERS AND GUIDANCE SECTION OF THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HAD RECEIVED 455 VISITORS AND HANDLED 202 TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES ON MATTERS RELATED TO THE RELEASE OF THE HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION RESULTS, AN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
THIS BRINGS TO 1,993 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PEOPLE VISITED AND 1,125 CALLERS TELEPHONED THE CENTRE SINCE THE RELEASE OF THE HKCEE RESULTS ON TUESDAY.
MEANWHILE, THE DEPARTMENT’S 24-HOUR AUTOMATIC TELEPHONE ENQUIRY SERVICE RECEIVED MORE THAN 7,017 CALLERS SINCE MONDAY -- ONE DAY BEFORE THE START OF STAGE I OF THE SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE.
- 0 - -
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
7
S6 ADMISSION
*****
STAGE IV OF THE SECONDARY SIX ADMISSION PROCEDURE IS SCHEDULED FOR MONDAY (AUGUST 16) AND TUESDAY.
A LIST OF SCHOOLS WITH VACANCIES WILL BE DISPLAYED AT ALL DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICES AT 9 AM ON MONDAY AND STUDENTS WITH MINIMUM A-LEVEL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS MAY APPLY TO ONE OR MORE OF THESE SCHOOLS.
APPLICATION RESULTS WILL BE DISPLAYED AT THESE SCHOOLS ON TUESDAY AND SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS CAN ONLY REGISTER WITH ONE SCHOOL
BEFORE 3.30 PM ON THE SAME DAY.
TOTAL NO. OF S6 PLACES AVAILABLE 23,200
VACANCIES AFTER STAGE I (AUGUST 10) 9,687
AFTER STAGE II (AUGUST 12) 5,112
AFTER STAGE III (AUGUST 13) 3,201
------0--------
AIR QUALITY REPORT FOR JULY ♦ * * * *
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TODAY (FRIDAY) RELEASED AIR QUALITY INFORMATION FOR JULY.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE PURPOSE OF THE ANNOUNCEMENT WAS TO KEEP THE PUBLIC INFORMED OF THE AIR QUALITY LEVELS IN THE TERRITORY AND TO EXPLAIN THE MEASUREMENTS.
THE ANNOUNCEMENT NORMALLY CONTAINS MONITORING RESULTS OBTAINED AT THE DEPARTMENT’S MONG KOK, CENTRAL/WESTERN AND KWAI CHUNG MONITORING STATIONS.
THE LOCATIONS ARE TYPICAL OF THREE OF THE IMPORTANT LAND USE TYPES FOUND IN THE TERRITORY:
* LOCATIONS CLOSE TO ROAD TRAFFIC IN BUILT-UP URBAN DISTRICTS,
* COMBINED COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS, AND
* DISTRICTS CLOSE TO INDUSTRIAL AREAS.
THE REPORTED AIR POLLUTANTS INCLUDE SULPHUR DIOXIDE (SO2), NITROGEN DIOXIDE (NO2), RESPIRABLE SUSPENDED PARTICULATES (RSP) AND TOTAL SUSPENDED PARTICULATES (TSP).
THE GASEOUS POLLUTANTS ARE MONITORED CONTINUOUSLY WHILE PARTICLE SAMPLES ARE COLLECTED FOR 24 HOURS, ONCE EVERY SIX DAYS.
IN JULY, THERE WERE NO EXCEEDANCES OF THE 24-HOUR OR HOURLY AIR QUALITY OBJECTIVE FOR ANY OF THE POLLUTANTS REPORTED.
/DUST LEVELS .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
8
DUST LEVELS WERE, AS USUAL, HIGHER AT MONG KOK THAN AT CENTRAL/WESTERN AND KWAI CHUNG.
THE MONTHLY AVERAGE SO2 CONCENTRATIONS AT KWAI CHUNG WAS 2.5 TIMES HIGHER THAN LAST YEAR. BY CONTRAST, AT MONG KOK AND CENTRAL/WESTERN LEVELS WERE LOWER THAN LAST YEAR.
THIS YEAR, PEAKS OF 24-HOUR SULPHUR DIOXIDE CONCENTRATIONS WERE OBSERVED AT KWAI CHUNG ON THE 27TH AND 30TH BUT NOT AT THE OTHER TWO SITES. HOWEVER, THE PEAKS WERE WELL BELOW THE 24-HOUR LIMIT OF 350 UG PER CUBIC METER.
COMPARED TO LAST YEAR, NITROGEN DIOXIDE LEVELS WERE 2.5 TIMES HIGHER AT KWAI CHUNG, SLIGHTLY HIGHER AT MONG KOK AND SLIGHTLY LOWER AT CENTRAL/WESTERN.
IN ABSOLUTE TERMS, THOUGH, NITROGEN DIOXIDE LEVELS WERE STILL HIGHEST AT THE STREET LEVEL SITE OF MONG KOK.
THE DEPARTMENT IS INVESTIGATING THE TREND OF THESE HIGHER POLLUTION LEVELS IN KWAI CHUNG.
THE FOUR POLLUTANTS DISCUSSED HAVE DIFFERENT ORIGINS. SO2 MOSTLY ORIGINATES FROM THE COMBUSTION OF SULPHUR CONTAINING FOSSIL FUELS.
NO2 IS FORMED EITHER DIRECTLY DURING COMBUSTION OR, SY THE ATMOSPHERIC OXIDATION OF NITRIC OXIDE (NO) WHICH IS ALSO PRODUCED DURING COMBUSTION.
VEHICLE EXHAUST IS A MAJOR SOURCE OF NO AND NO2.
IT IS ALSO A MAJOR SOURCE OF AIRBORNE PARTICLES; OTHER SOURCES INCLUDE INDUSTRY, FURNACES AND BOILERS, CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES, THE SEA AND SOIL DUST.
THE DEPARTMENT IS CURRENTLY MONITORING AIR QUALITY CONTINUOUSLY AT 11 STATIONS, INCLUDING THE THREE MENTIONED ABOVE. SHORT-TERM MEASUREMENT CAMPAIGNS ARE ALSO UNDERTAKEN AS AND WHERE THE NEED ARISES.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
FURTHER ENQUIRIES CAN BE DIRECTED TO PRINCIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICER, MR RAYMOND LEUNG, ON TEL 594 6401.
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/9 ........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
9
HK DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK BEGINS *****
WITH THE CEREMONIAL DOTTING OF THE EYE OF A SLEEPING DRAGON TO AWAKEN ITS SPIRIT, THE THIRD ANNUAL HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK BEGAN ON THURSDAY (NEW YORK TIME) AT THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTER IN LOWER MANHATTAN.
AS HUNDREDS OF LUNCH-TIME NEW YORKERS WATCHED ON, A 60-FOOT-LONG DRAGON WOUND ITS WAY THROUGH THE LARGE WINTER GARDEN OF THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTER TO LAUNCH THE FOUR-DAY EXHIBITION OF CHINESE CULTURE, WHICH INCLUDES A DRAGON BOAT RACE ON THE HUDSON RIVER ON AUGUST 15, FROM NOON TO 4 PM.
THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK, RUNNING FROM AUGUST 12 TO 15, IS PRESENTED BY THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC AND TRADE OFFICE IN NEW YORK AND HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK. IT IS SPONSORED BY HONGKONGBANK.
"THE FESTIVAL PRESENTS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR NEW YORKERS TO UNDERSTAND BETTER THAT, APART FROM THE BUSINESS SIDE OF HONG KONG, THERE IS A CULTURAL AND SPORTING COLOR TO HONG KONG LIFE,” SAID MR BARRIE WIGGHAM, HONG KONG COMMISSIONER USA, WHO PERFORMED THE CEREMONIAL EYE-DOTTING OF THE DRAGON UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF A BUDDHIST PRIEST.
"HONG HONG IS PRIVILEGED TO BE ABLE TO DEMONSTRATE THROUGH THESE EVENTS SOME OF THE WAYS OF THE PEARL TO NEW YORKERS IN THE BIG APPLE."
"HONG KONG IS WELL KNOWN AS THE MAIN BUSINESS GATEWAY TO CHINA; AND AS A BUSINESS HUB FOR THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION," SAID MR WIGGHAM, WHO HEADS THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC AND TRADE AFFAIRS OFFICE IN WASHINGTON, DC.
"OF COURSE, THERE ARE ALREADY CLOSE TRADING AND ECONOMIC TIES BETWEEN HONG KONG AND THE U.S.: THIS IS REFLECTED BY A STRONG AMERICAN PRESENCE IN HONG KONG, WITH MORE THAN 900 AMERICAN COMPANIES DOING BUSINESS THERE.
"OVERALL U.S. INVESTMENT IS ESTIMATED AT US$7 BILLION. MORE THAN 26,000 AMERICANS LIVE IN HONG KONG AND THE NUMBER IS INCREASING AT THE RATE OF OVER 1,000 A YEAR,” HE SAID.
"BUT I AM DELIGHTED THAT, AS THE NEW HONG KONG COMMISSIONER IN THE UNITED STATES, MY VERY FIRST OFFICIAL FUNCTION IS NOT STRICTLY RELATED TO THE "ECONOMIC AND TRADE AFFAIRS" OF THE FORMAL TITLE, BUT TO A DIFFERENT SIDE OF HONG KONG LIFE," MR WIGGHAM SAID.
THE FOUR-DAY CELEBRATION IN THE WINTER GARDEN AND ON THE PLAZA OUTSIDE THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTER FEATURES DEMONSTRATIONS OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE CRAFTS, COOKING, MARTIAL ARTS AND DANCES, AND STATE-OF-THE-ART PRODUCTS AND DISPLAYS.
THE DEMONSTRATIONS AND EXHIBITS INCLUDE: CHINESE MUSIC AND DANCE, MARTIAL ARTS, CHINESE KNOTTING, CALLIGRAPHY, ARTISTIC SEAL CARVING, CHINESE PAINTING AND DOUGH FIGURES.
/"THE WORLD .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
10
’’THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTER AND THIS WINTER GARDEN WILL REMIND THOSE OF YOU WHO KNOW HONG KONG, OF ITS DRAMATIC SKYLINE AND ITS SOARING AND ARCHITECTURAL INNOVATIVE INTERIORS,” SAID MR RODERICK RICHARDS, CHAIRMAN, HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK, INC AND THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK.
’’IT IS HERE AT THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTER THAT NEW YORK COMES CLOSEST TO LOOKING LIKE HONG KONG AND ITS HARBOUR AND THE WATERFRONT. THIS CENTER ON THE HUDSON IS THUS THE IDEAL SPOT FOR TODAY’S EXHIBITION AND THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT NEW YORK CHAMPIONSHIP RACES TO BE HELD THIS COMING SUNDAY.”
ON SUNDAY, THE CHAMPIONSHIP DRAGON BOAT RACES FEATURE 12 TEAMS FROM NEW YORK AND ACROSS THE U.S. COMPETING IN AUTHENTIC CHINESE DRAGON BOAT RACES ALONG A 640-METRE COURSE ON THE HUDSON RIVER OFF THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTER.
FOUR OF THE TEAMS WERE THE WINNERS FROM AMONG 17 TEAMS WHICH COMPETED IN THE NEW YORK CITY DRAGON BOAT RACES HELD LAST SATURDAY AT FLUSHING MEADOWS PARK IN QUEENS.
THE WINNING TEAM OF THIS SUNDAY’S RACE WILL BE FLOWN TO HONG KONG BY DELTA AIRLINES TO COMPETE IN THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL RACES NEXT YEAR.
ON SUNDAY, THERE WILL ALSO BE A ”HONG KONG VILLAGE” DISPLAY AT THE PLAZA ON THE RACE SITE.
------0-------
ENERGY STATISTICS REPORT ON SALE *****
THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT HAS PUBLISHED THE ’’HONG KONG ENERGY STATISTICS ANNUAL REPORT, 1992” WHICH DESCRIBES THE SITUATION OF ENERGY SUPPLY AND DEMAND IN HONG KONG.
THE REPORT CONTAINS COMPREHENSIVE STATISTICAL INFORMATION ABOUT DIFFERENT FORMS OF ENERGY, INCLUDING OIL PRODUCTS, COAL PRODUCTS, ELECTRICITY AND TOWN GAS.
IT ALSO INCLUDES AN OVERALL ENERGY BALANCE WHICH SUMMARISES THE SOURCES AND USES OF DIFFERENT FORMS OF ENERGY, AND DEPICTS THEIR RELATIONSHIPS IN THE ENERGY TRANSFORMATION PROCESSES.
REGARDING VARIOUS OIL PRODUCTS, STATISTICS ON LIST PRICES, STORAGE CAPACITY, TANK STOCK, IMPORTS, RE-EXPORTS, RETAINED IMPORTS, AVERAGE UNIT VALUES OF IMPORTS, AND QUANTITY OF SALES BY TYPE OF USER ARE PRESENTED IN THE REPORT.
FIGURES ON IMPORTS, RE-EXPORTS, RETAINED IMPORTS AND AVERAGE UNIT VALUES OF IMPORTS OF SELECTED COAL PRODUCTS ARE GIVEN.
FOR ELECTRICITY AND TOWN GAS, THE REPORT LISTS FIGURES ON TARIFF CHARGES, GENERATING CAPACITY, PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION BY TYPE OF USER.
/ANNUAL FIGURES .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
11
ANNUAL FIGURES FOR THE YEARS 1982 TO 1992 ARE PROVIDED WITH RESPECT TO MOST OF THESE STATISTICS. TN ADDITION, QUARTERLY FIGURES FOR 1991 AND 1992 ARE PRESENTED FOR SELECTED ITEMS.
THE REPORT, AT $25 A COPY, IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AND THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, PUBLICATIONS SECTION, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI .
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE OF THE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TELEPHONE 839 3246.
- - 0 - -
HEALTH EDUCATION CENTRE TO START OPERATION * » » » *
A FOURTH CENTRE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH'S CENTRAL HEALTH EDUCATION UNIT (CHEU) WILL START PARTIAL OPERATION FROM MONDAY (AUGUST 16), IN TSUEN WAN.
LOCATED ON THE 13TH FLOOR OF TSUEN WAN GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING AT 38 SAI LAU KOK ROAD, THE CENTRE WILL PROVIDE A VARIETY OF HEALTH EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, WHICH INCLUDE INFORMATION HANDOUTS SUCH AS LEAFLETS, POSTERS AND PAMPHLETS; REGULAR EXHIBITIONS AND DISPLAYS; AND AUDIO AND VIDEO SHOWS.
SAME AS THE OTHER CHEU CENTRES, THE TSUEN WAN CENTRE WILL PROVIDE A TELEPHONE COUNSELLING SERVICE TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ON GENERAL HEALTH EDUCATION AND GUIDANCE, ON TEL 417 6502.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS AT THE CENTRE WILL ALSO GIVE HEALTH TALKS TO SCHOOLS AND ORGANISATIONS UPON REQUESTS.
INITIALLY, THE CENTRE WILL BE OPENED ON MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS BETWEEN 8.30 AM TO 1 PM, AND 2 PM TO 5 PM.
ALL SERVICES AT THE CENTRE ARE FREE.
FOR ENQUIRIES, PLEASE DIAL TEL 417 6505.
THE OTHER EXISTING CHEU CENTRES ARE:
♦CENTRAL HEALTH EDUCATION UNIT, SEVENTH FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE, 130 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG
ENQUIRY NO
TEL 572 1476
HEALTH COUNSELLING : TEL 692 8753
/*SHA TIN
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
12
*SHA TIN HEALTH EDUCATION CENTRE,
SHA TIN LEK YUEN HEALTH CENTRE, SECOND FLOOR, 9 LEK YUEN STREET, SHA TIN, NEW TERRITORIES ENQUIRY NO. : TEL 692 8749
HEALTH COUNSELLING : TEL 692 8753
*YUNG FUNG SHEE HEALTH EDUCATION CENTRE,
YUNG FUNG SHEE MEMORIAL CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, CHA KWO LING ROAD, KWUN TONG, KOWLOON ENQUIRY NO. : TEL 727 8229
HEALTH COUNSELLING : DITTO
------0-------
TENDERS CALLED FOR SCHOOLS » * ♦ * *
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF TWO SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN AP LEI CHAU, AND A SECONDARY SCHOOL AND A PRIMARY SCHOOL IN TIN SHUT WAI.
THE SCHOOLS WILL BE OF GOVERNMENT STANDARD DESIGN, EACH HAVING A MAIN TEACHING BLOCK, A BLOCK OF SPECIAL ROOMS, AN ASSEMBLY HALL, SEPARATE ANCILLARY BUILDINGS AND STAFF QUARTERS.
THE MAIN TEACHING BLOCK OF EACH SECONDARY SCHOOL WILL CONTAIN 26 CLASSROOMS WHILE THAT OF THE PRIMARY SCHOOL WILL COMPRISE 30 CLASSROOMS.
EACH SCHOOL WILL ALSO HAVE A LIBRARY, A COMPUTER ROOM, STAFF ROOMS, ADMINISTRATION OFFICES, A BASKETBALL COURT, A COVERED PLAY AREA, A CAR PARK AND PLANTING AREAS.
THE BLOCK OF SPECIAL ROOMS WILL HOUSE FACILITIES FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNICAL SUBJECTS.
WORKS FOR BOTH PROJECTS ARE EXPECTED TO START IN OCTOBER AND WILL TAKE 16 TO 18 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
TENDER OFFERS WILL CLOSE AT NOON ON SEPTEMBER 10.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT ON THE 34TH FLOOR OF THE QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES AT 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG.
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/13 .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
13
LUK KENG ROAD TO UNDERGO IMPROVEMENTS *****
THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO TWO SHARP BENDS AT LUK KENG ROAD.
IT IS A SINGLE-LANE ROAD RUNNING FROM SHA TAU KOK ROAD TO BRIDE’S POOL ROAD. IT IS NOW SERVING TWO-WAY TRAFFIC BY PROVIDING SOME PASSING BAYS ALONG THE ROAD.
THE ALIGNMENT AT THE TWO SHARP BENDS IS TORTUOUS AND THE SIGHTLINES ARE POOR. WORKS ARE THEREFORE REQUIRED TO IMPROVE THE SAFETY THERE.
WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START IN OCTOBER AND WILL TAKE 12 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
THE SEAWALL AND MARINE WORKS WILL BE COMPLETED BY APRIL NEXT YEAR TO MINIMISE DISTURBANCE TO THE ACTIVITIES OF EGRETS IN THE AREA.
THE WORKS HAVE BEEN DESIGNED AND WILL BE SUPERVISED BY THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT.
A NOTICE TO INVITE TENDERS WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE REGIONAL HIGHWAY ENGINEER/NEW TERRITORIES REGION, HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT, THIRD FLOOR, ROOM 314, HO MAN TIN GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 88 CHUNG HAU STREET, KOWLOON. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TELEPHONE 762 3594.
TENDERS MUST BE CLEARLY MARKED AND ADDRESSED TO THE CHAIRMAN, PUBLIC WORKS TENDER BOARD, AND PLACED IN THE PUBLIC WORKS TENDER BOX AT THE LIFT LOBBY ON 34TH FLOOR OF THE QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG, BEFORE NOON ON SEPTEMBER 3. LATE TENDERS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
- - 0 -
NEW PREMISES FOR MONG KOK POST OFFICE *****
THE MONG KOK POST OFFICE WILL MOVE BACK TO ITS ORIGINAL ADDRESS AT BUTE STREET WITH THE COMPLETION OF THE NEW MONGKOK TELEPHONE EXCHANGE BUILDING.
THE NEW OFFICE, ON THE FIRST FLOOR OF THE BUILDING, 37 BUTE STREET, KOWLOON, WILL OPEN FOR BUSINESS AT 9.30 AM ON AUGUST 23.
’’THE NEW PURPOSE-BUILT OFFICE IS SPACIOUS AND EQUIPPED WITH IMPROVED FACILITIES TO SERVE OUR CUSTOMERS BETTER," THE ACTING POSTMASTER GENERAL, MRS DORIS HO, SAID.
ITS HOURS OF BUSINESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBER WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED.
/THIS OFFICE
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
14
THIS OFFICE WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING ONE AT UNION PARK CENTRE, 771-775 NATHAN ROAD WHICH WILL BE CLOSED FOR BUSINESS AFTER 1 PM ON AUGUST 21.
MRS HO ADVISED LOCAL PHILATELISTS THAT A SPECIAL HANDBACK SERVICE WOULD BE AVAILABLE AT THE MONG KOK POST OFFICE ON AUGUST 23.
UNREGISTERED FULLY POSTAGE PREPAID ’’FIRST DAY COVERS” PREPARED PRIVATELY, AND BEARING A LOCAL ADDRESS, WILL BE ACCEPTED OVER THE COUNTER, IMPRESSED WITH THE NORMAL POST OFFICE DATESTAMP AND HANDED BACK TO THE PERSON PRESENTING THEM.
------0-------
REVISED FEE FOR VALUATION LIST DATA ♦ * ♦ ♦ *
THE DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING SERVICES TODAY (FRIDAY) SAID THE FEE FOR PROVIDING INFORMATION ON THE ADDRESS OR DESCRIPTION, AND RATEABLE VALUE OF ANY TENEMENT CONTAINED IN A VALUATION LIST WOULD BE REVISED FROM $50 TO $55 WITH EFFECT FROM AUGUST 16.
THE REVISION HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED BY THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY IN A NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
SECTION 15(4) OF THE RATING ORDINANCE PROVIDES FOR THE PAYMENT OF SUCH FEE.
------0--------
FARM LAND TO BE RESUMED FOR DRAINAGE WORKS » » * * »
THE GOVERNMENT IS TO RESUME SOME 1,510 SQUARE METRES OF LAND FROM SEVEN PRIVATE AGRICULTURAL LOTS IN TAI HANG, TAI PO FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A DRAINAGE CHANNEL TO ALLEVIATE THE RISK OF FLOODING IN THE LOW-LYING AREAS.
MEANWHILE, IN PIK UK, SAI KUNG, 5,456 SQUARE METRES OF LAND FROM 30 PRIVATE AGRICULTURAL LOTS WILL BE RESUMED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF DEPARTMENTAL QUARTERS FOR THE CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, A SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT, A FOOTBRIDGE AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE.
THE WORKS ARE PROGRAMMED TO START LATER IN THE YEAR.
RESUMPTION NOTICES WERE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY). THE LAND WILL BE REVERTED TO THE GOVERNMENT THREE MONTHS LATER.
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/15........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 1993
- 15 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,470
REVERSAL OF LAF +530
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -952
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,048
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.4 *-0.1* 13.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.13 PCT 12 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.78 3.61
1 MONTH 3.02 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 101.00 3.83
3 MONTHS 3.09 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.04 4.07
6 MONTHS 3.21 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 3.75 99.07 4.35
12 MONTHS 3.60 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 23,027 MN
CLOSED 13 AUGUST 1993
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SMI RDAY . AUGUST 1 4 , 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
MARINE ORDERED INQUIRY INTO SF A ACCTDEM ........................ 1
LANDFILL CONTRACT AWARDED ....................................... 1
VANDALISM REGRETTED ............................................. 2
ANTI-RABIES INOCULATION DRIVE TN FISHING PORTS .................. 3
TSUEN WAN ANTI-DRUGS ('ONCER T .................................. 4
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 4
SUNDAY AUGUST 15, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
STATEMENT ON CMB STAFF REDUNDANCY ............................ 5
SU MILLION GRANTS FOR PUBLICITY ON REHABILITATION ............ 5
48 NEW BUILDING PLANS APPROVED IN .TUNE ...................... 6
CONSULTATION ON WASTE DTSPOSAI CHARGES ENDS SOON ............. 7
SIR EDWARD YOUDE MEMORIAL OVERSEAS FFLLOWSHTP/SCHOI ARSHIP FOR DISABLED STUDENTS 1994/95 ...................................... 8
SWD RECEIVES DONATION FROM JOCKEY Cl UB ...................... 9
RESERVOIR FISHING SEASON TO BEGIN NEXT MONTH ................. 10
SATURDAY, AUGUST 14, 1993
1
MARINE ORDERED INQUIRY INTO SEA ACCIDENT
*****
THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR ALLAN PYRKE, YESTERDAY (FRIDAY) ORDERED A PRELIMINARY INQUIRY INTO AN ACCIDENT INVOLVING A HONG KONG-REGISTERED SUCTION DREDGER "MAAS" IN MACAU WATERS ON THURSDAY (AUGUST 12) EVENING.
FOUR CREW MEMBERS OF THE DREDGER WERE STILL REPORTED MISSING.
THE INQUIRY WAS ORDERED UNDER THE MERCHANT SHIPPING ORDINANCE AFTER MR PYRKE HAD CONSIDERED AN INITIAL REPORT ON THE INCIDENT. THE PURPOSE OF THE INQUIRY IS TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSES OF THE ACCIDENT.
NAUTICAL SURVEYOR, CAPTAIN KENNETH YEOMANS, HAS BEEN APPOINTED TO CONDUCT THE INQUIRY.
ABOUT 8.30 PM ON AUGUST 12, THE "MAAS" CAPSIZED OFF DONGAO DAO IN MACAU WATERS AND LATER SANK.
THERE WERE 20 CREW MEMBERS ON BOARD THE DREDGER, OF WHICH 14 WERE RESCUED AND TWO BODIES WERE PICKED UP.
------0----------
LANDFILL CONTRACT AWARDED
******
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT (F.PD) HAS AWARDED THE CONTRACT 01’ THE SOUTH-EAST NEW TERRITORIES (SENT) LANDFILL TO GREEN VALLEY LANDFILL LIMITED, A CONSORTIUM COMPRISING WASTE MANAGEMENT INC, CITIC PACIFIC LTD AND SUN HUNG KAI PROPERTIES LTD.
THE LANDFILL IS THE SECOND OF THE THREE STRATEGIC LARGE-CAPACITY LANDFILLS TO BE DEVELOPED UNDER THE LONG-TERM WASTE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY IN HONG KONG.
AN EPD SPOKESMAN SAID: "THIS $3.5 BILLION CONTRACT ADOPTS A DESIGN-BUILD-OPERATE ARRANGEMENT UNDER WHICH THE CONTRACTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION, RESTORATION AND AFTERCARE OF THE LANDFILL."
FIVE PREVIOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROJECTS HAVE BEEN DEVELOPED BY EPD IN A SIMILAR FASHION.
THE LANDFILL WILL BE ABLE TO RECEIVE 39 MILLION TONNES OF WASTE AND IS EXPECTED TO START OPERATION IN AUGUST 1994.
THE OPERATION WILL CONTINUE UNTIL THE YEAR 2007, AFTER WHICH A 30-YEAR AFTERCARE PERIOD WILL FOLLOW.
/THE SPOKESMAN .......
SATURDAY, AUGUST 14, 1993
- 2 -
THE SPOKESMAN SAID: "THE CONTRACT REQUIRES THE CONTRACTOR TO SATISFY VERY STRINGENT ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS FOR BOTH CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF THE LANDFILL, INCLUDING LINING THE SITE WITH AN IMPERMEABLE MEMBRANE AS WELL AS COLLECTING AND TREATING THE POLLUTED LIQUIDS AND LANDFILL GAS BEFORE ANY DISCHARGE FROM THE SITE."
IN ADDITION, AIR, NOISE AND WATER QUALITY WILL BE CONTINUOUSLY MONITORED BOTH WITHIN THE LANDFILL AND IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD, HR SAID.
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VANDALISM REGRETTED * * * * *
THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR IAN STRACHAN, TODAY (SATURDAY) REGRETTED THE VANDALISM WHICH HAD TAKEN PLACE AT THE PARENTS RESOURCE CENTRE OF THE HONG KONG DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION. THIS CENTRE WILL SOON BE OPEN IN TUNG TAU ESTATE.
"THE PARENTS RESOURCE CENTRE PROVIDES USEFUL SERVICES TO PEOPLE WITH DOWN SYNDROME AND THEIR PARENTS. IT HELPS TOWARDS THE INTEGRATION OF THE DISABLED INTO THE COMMUNITY. DISABLED PERSONS HAVE THE RIGHT TO USE COMMUNITY FACILITIES.
"WE WILL CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN A DIALOGUE WITH THE DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION AND THE LOCAL RESIDENTS. WE WILL FIGHT PREJUDICE VIGOROUSLY. THIS PROJECT WILL PROCEED.
"I AM PLEASED TO LEARN THAT THE POLICE ARE INVESTIGATING THIS INCIDENT."
MR STRACHAN NOTED THAT THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE, MRS ELIZABETH WONG, HAD ALSO EXPRESSED HER PERSONAL CONCERN OVER THIS INCIDENT.
SHE HAD REPEATEDLY STATED IN RECENT MONTHS HER DETERMINATION TO SUPPORT THE RIGHT OF DISABLED PERSONS TO LIVE AND WORK WITHIN THE COMMUNITY.
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/3........
SATURDAY, AUGUST 14, 1993
ANTI-RABIES INOCULATION DRIVE IN FISHING PORTS * » » » »
THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT WILL LAUNCH A SPECIAL DOG INOCULATION DRIVE IN FISHING PORTS OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS SO THAT FISHERMEN CAN HAVE THEIR DOGS IMMUNISED AGAINST RABIES.
THE DRIVE, A REGULAR EXERCISE SINCE 1980, IS INTENDED TO HELP FISHERMEN WHO FIND LITTLE TIME TO TAKE THEIR DOGS TO AN INOCULATION CENTRE OR A GOVERNMENT KENNEL FOR INOCULATION.
STARTING FROM MONDAY (AUGUST 16), THE DEPARTMENT’S MOBILE DOG INOCULATION TEAMS WILL GO TO THE TERRITORY’S SEVEN FISHING PORTS AND MAKE BOAT-TO-BOAT VISITS BETWEEN 10 AM AND 4 PM DAILY. THE WHOLE OPERATION IS EXPECTED TO LAST UNTIL AUGUST 26.
THEY WILL VISIT THE FISHING PORTS IN SHA TAU KOK ON AUGUST 16; SHAM MUN CHAI ON AUGUST 17 AND 18; ABERDEEN ON AUGUST 18 AND 19; CASTLE PEAK BAY ON AUGUST 19 AND 20; CHEUNG CHAU ON AUGUST 23 AND 24 AS WELL AS SHAU KEI WAN AND SAI KUNG ON AUGUST 25 AND 26.
THE DEPARTMENT’S SENIOR VETERINARY OFFICER, DR K K LIU SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT THE DRIVE WAS PART OF THE GOVERNMENT’S CONTINUING EFFORTS TO PREVENT THE OUTBREAK OF RABIES IN HONG KONG.
"THE TERRITORY REGAINED THE RABIES-FREE AREA STATUS ON JULY 10, 1989 BY HAVING SUCCESSFULLY PREVENTED THE OUTBREAK OF ANY INDIGENOUS RABIES CASE SINCE JULY 10, 1987," HE SAID.
NEVERTHELESS, HE STRESSED THAT RABIES WAS A DEADLY DISEASE TRANSMISSIBLE FROM ANIMALS TO HUMAN. DOGS ON FISHING VESSELS ARE PARTICULARLY VULNERABLE BECAUSE OF THEIR POSSIBLE CONTACTS WITH OTHER ANIMALS OUTSIDE HONG KONG.
"IT IS, THEREFORE, IMPORTANT THAT FISHERMEN’S DOGS ARE INOCULATED AGAINST THE DISEASE AT LEAST EVERY THREE YEARS TO KEEP UP THEIR IMMUNITY," DR LIU ADDED.
HE CALLED ON FISHERMEN WHO OWNED DOGS TO MAKE FULL USE OF THE SPECIAL INOCULATION SERVICE.
SINCE THE DRIVE WAS LAUNCHED IN 1980, A TOTAL OF 4,790 DOGS OWNED BY FISHERMEN HAVE BEEN INOCULATED.
UNDER THE DOGS AND CATS ORDINANCE, ALL DOGS OVER FIVE MONTHS OLD ARE REQUIRED TO BE LICENSED AND INOCULATED AGAINST RABIES. FAILURE TO DO SO WILL RENDER THE OWNER LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $5,000 AND SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT.
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/4.........
SATURDAY, AUGUST 14, 1993
4
TSUEN WAN ANTI-DRUGS CONCERT * * » » «
AN ANTI-DRUG CONCERT WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (SUNDAY) IN TSUEN WAN, FEATURING PERFORMANCES BY POP SONGS SINGERS, DISC JOCKEYS AND SOLAR AMBASSADORS OF THE RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG, THE 'LIVE A POSITIVE LIFE ANTI-DRUG SOLAR CONCERT' WILL BE BROADCASTED LIVE ON CHANNEL TWO OF THE RADIO TELEVISION HONG KONG.
THE CONCERT IS PART OF THE MONTH-LONG TSUEN WAN DISTRICT ANTIDRUGS CAMPAIGN WHICH IS ORGANISED BY THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CONCERT AT 2 PM TOMORROW ON SECOND FLOOR, RIVIERA PLAZA, TSUEN WAN.
THE COMMISSIONER FOR NARCOTICS, MR A SINCLAIR; CHAIRMAN OF THE ACTION COMMITTEE AGAINST NARCOTICS, PROFESSOR C N CHEN; CHAIRMAN OF THE TSUEN WAN DISTRICT FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE, MR CHAN YAN-LEUNG; AND ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER (COMMUNITY AFFAIRS) OF TSUEN WAN, MISS ESTHER LEUNG; WILL BE OFFICIATING GUESTS.
--------0-----------
T EXCHANGE FUND OPERATIONS
* * * *
$ MILLION
1,048
+ 952
2,000
NIL
-690
1,310
TW1 112.3 *-0.1* 14.8.93
- 0-------
HONG KONG GOVERNME MONEY MARKET
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
SUNDAY, AUGUST 15, 1993
- 5 -
STATEMENT ON CMB STAFF REDUNDANCY *****
IN RESPONSE TO PRESS ENQUIRIES, A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TONIGHT THAT THE GOVERNMENT HOPED THAT, AT THEIR MEETING TOMORROW (MONDAY), CMB WORKERS AND THE MANAGEMENT COULD SATISFACTORILY RESOLVE THEIR DIFFERENCES OVER STAFF REDUNDANCIES.
’’THE TWO SIDES HAVE BEEN CONDUCTING A CONSTRUCTIVE DIALOGUE, AND ARE MINDFUL OF THEIR RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE TRAVELLING PUBLIC. THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN CLOSELY MONITORING THE SITUATION, AND HAS MAINTAINED CLOSE CONTACT WITH BOTH PARTIES.”
THE SPOKESMAN SAID: "IT WOULD CLEARLY BE IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST FOR THE TWO SIDES TO REACH A SETTLEMENT OF THEIR DIFFERENCES BY WAY OF NEGOTIATION.
"BUT IF TALKS SHOULD BREAK DOWN AND THIS IS FOLLOWED BY INDUSTRIAL ACTION AFFECTING CMB SERVICES, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WOULD INTRODUCE APPROPRIATE MEASURES TO ENSURE THAT INCONVENIENCE TO CMB PASSENGERS IS MINIMISED AS FAR AS POSSIBLE. THESE MEASURES WOULD INCLUDE THE DEPLOYMENT, IF NECESSARY, OF ALTERNATIVE PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES."
"SHOULD CIRCUMSTANCES WARRANT THE ACTIVATION OF THESE CONTINGENCY MEASURES, DETAILS WILL BE ANNOUNCED THROUGH RADIO AND TV AS SOON AS PRACTICABLE. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, IN PARTICULAR THOSE WHO HAVE TO USE CMB SERVICES, ARE ADVISED TO TUNE IN ON THEIR TV AND RADIO EARLY ON TUESDAY MORNING, BEFORE SETTING OUT ON THEIR JOURNEYS."
THE SPOKESMAN CONCLUDED BY SAYING THAT "THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS NO MORE THAN AN EARLY NOTIFICATION TO MEMBERS OF THE TRAVELLING PUBLIC THAT, SHOULD INDUSTRIAL ACTION BE TAKEN, WE HAVE PLANS TO COPE WITH IT.
THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT MEAN THAT WE ARE EXPECTING INDUSTRIAL ACTION. INDEED, AS BOTH SIDES HAVE BEEN CONDUCTING A CONSTRUCTIVE DIALOGUE, WE ARE HOPEFUL THAT THEY COULD REACH AN AMICABLE SETTLEMENT ON MONDAY EVENING."
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$11 MILLION GRANTS FOR PUBLICITY ON REHABILITATION
******
MORE THAN 30 PUBLIC EDUCATION PROJECTS ON REHABILITATION, AT AN ESTIMATED COST OF $11 MILLION, WILL BE LAUNCHED OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS TO PROMOTE BETTER UNDERSTANDING AND COMMUNITY ACCEPTANCE OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES.
/X SPOKESMAN FOR THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH SAID THE BULK OF FUNDING REQUIRED HAD BEEN SECURED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES.
/“THE QUEEN .......
SUNDAY, AUGUST 15, 1993
- 6 -
"THE QUEEN ELIZABETH FOUNDATION FOR THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED HAS RECENTLY APPROVED A GRANT OF $2.7 MILLION FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECTS," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB, A STAUNCH SUPPORTER OF PROJECTS TO HELP THE DISABLED, HAS ALSO AGREED TO DONATE $7.4 MILLION FOR THESE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES.
"THEIR STAUNCH SUPPORT WILL GIVE A TREMENDOUS BOOST TO OUR PUBLICITY EFFORTS WHICH WILL BE TARGETED AT LOCAL RESIDENTS," HE ADDED.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PUBLICITY PROGRAMME INCLUDE SOCIAL SERVICE PROJECTS, FRIENDSHIP CARD SCHEME, CREATIVE DESIGN COMPETITION IN THE SCHOOL SYSTEM, TALENT QUEST FOR DISABLED PERSONS, INTERNATIONAL DISABLED PERSONS' DAY, REHABILITATION SPECIAL AND MENTAL HEALTH WEEK.
THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT PUBLIC EDUCATION WAS THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO ERADICATE PREJUDICE AGAINST DISABLED PERSONS.
THE GOVERNMENT WOULD TAKE THE LEAD TO STEP UP PUBLIC EDUCATION IN THE YEARS AHEAD TO ACHIEVE THE ULTIMATE GOALS OF FULL PARTICIPATION AND EQUALISATION OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DISABLED.
HE CALLED ON THE PUBLIC TO TAKE PART IN THE WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES WHEN THEY WERE LAUNCHED AND TO MAKE A COLLECTIVE EFFORT TO FACILITATE THE INTEGRATION OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES INTO THE COMMUNITY.
THE PUBLICITY ACTIVITIES WILL BE ORGANISED BY THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC EDUCATION IN REHABILITATION WHICH IS CHAIRED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR REHABILITATION MR ALLAN CHOW.
OTHER MEMBERS INCLUDE REPRESENTATIVES FROM CONCERNED GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, THE HONG KONG COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICE AND THE PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION.
"TO ENHANCE EFFECTIVENESS OF ITS WORK, IT WILL STRENGTHEN ITS CO-ORDINATING ROLE, MONITOR CLOSELY PROGRESS OF EACH FUNCTION AND, UPON COMPLETION, EVALUATE ITS EFFICACY FOR FUTURE REFERENCE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
48 NEW BUILDING PLANS APPROVED IN JUNE * * * » »
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY APPROVED 48 NEW BUILDING PLANS IN JUNE THIS YEAR.
OF THEM, 12 WERE FOR HONG KONG, 13 FOR KOWLOON AND 23 FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES.
/THE APPROVED .......
SUNDAY, AUGUST 15, 1993
THE APPROVED PLANS INCLUDED 26 FOR APARTMENT, APARTMENT/COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS, FIVE FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS AND EIGHT FOR FACTORY AND INDUSTRIAL PURPOSES.
TN THE MONTH, CONSENT WERE GIVEN FOR WORK TO START ON 31 PROJECTS, INVOLVING 66,121 SQUARE METRES OF USABLE DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA AND 88,392 SQUARE METRES OF USABLE NON-DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA.
THE TOTAL DECLARED COST OF NEW BUILDINGS COMPLETED WAS ABOUT $3,172 MILLION. USABLE FLOOR AREAS OF THE BUILDINGS FOR DOMESTIC AND NON-DOMESTIC USES WERE ABOUT 105,707 SQUARE METRES AND ABOUT 203,983 SQUARE METRES RESPECTIVELY.
IN THE MONTH, THE AUTHORITY ISSUED 38 OCCUPATION PERMITS - 13 FOR HONG KONG ISLAND, SIX FOR KOWLOON, AND 19 FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES.
IN ADDITION, 30 DEMOLITION CONSENTS INVOLVING 72 BUILDINGS WERE ISSUED.
THE CONTROL AND ENFORCEMENT DIVISION RECEIVED 885 COMPLAINTS OF UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS, CARRIED OUT 1,891 INSPECTIONS AND ISSUED 188 REMOVAL ORDERS IN RESPECT OF UNAUTHORISED BUILDING WORKS.
THE DANGEROUS BUILDINGS SECTION INSPECTED 826 BUILDINGS AND OBTAINED 13 EMERGENCY CLOSURE ORDERS.
- - 0 - -
CONSULTATION ON WASTE DISPOSAL CHARGES ENDS SOON
*****
CONSULTATION ON A PROPOSAL TO INTRODUCE A DIRECT CHARGING SCHEME FOR THE DISPOSAL OF PRIVATELY COLLECTED WASTE AT LANDFILLS WILL END ON AUGUST 20.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE CONSULTATION HAD GENERATED CONSIDERABLE INTEREST IN THE TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRY.
THIS HAS BEEN REFLECTED IN A LARGE NUMBER OF REQUESTS FOR THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT FROM TRANSPORTATION FIRMS AND LORRY DRIVERS.
THE SPOKESMAN URGED THE INTERESTED PARTIES TO SEND IN THEIR VIEWS BEFORE THE DEADLINE.
THE MAIN OBJECTIVE OF THE PROPOSAL IS TO ENCOURAGE WASTE REDUCTION AND RECYCLING BY APPLYING THE ’’POLLUTER PAYS" PRINCIPLE.
UNDER THE PROPOSED SCHEME, THE LEVEL OF CHARGES WILL BE SET INITIALLY TO RECOVER 50 PER CENT OF THE LANDFILL DISPOSAL COST. THE CHARGES WILL BE INCREASED BY PHASES TO REACH THE FULL COST RECOVERY LEVEL.
/THE INITIAL
SUNDAY, AUGUST 15, 1993
- 8 -
THE INITIAL CHARGES WILL RANGE FROM $175 FOR A SMALL VEHICLE WITH A FIVE-TONNE LOAD OF WASTE UP TO $350 FOR A LARGE VEHICLE WITH A HEAVIER LOAD.
REQUESTS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND COMMENTS ON THE PROPOSED SCHEME SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL DIVISION, THE PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS BRANCH, 20TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, CENTRAL.
- - 0 -
SIR EDWARD YOUDE MEMORIAL OVERSEAS FELLOWSHIP/ SCHOLARSHIP FOR DISABLED STUDENTS 1994/95 t * t * *
THE SIR EDWARD YOUDE MEMORIAL FUND COUNCIL ANNOUNCED TODAY (SUNDAY) THAT A NEW AWARD OF FELLOWSHIP/SCHOLARSHIP TO FINANCE ONE OUTSTANDING DISABLED STUDENT IN HONG KONG FOR OVERSEAS STUDIES STARTING IN THE 1994/95 ACADEMIC YEAR WILL BE OPEN FOR APPLICATION STARTING FROM AUGUST 16.
THE FELLOWSHIP/SCHOLARSHIP IS AIMED AT ENCOURAGING DISABLED STUDENT WHO HAS ATTAINED A REASONABLY HIGH STANDARD OF SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENTS TO PURSUE FURTHER EDUCATION IN A REPUTABLE INSTITUTION OVERSEAS.
THE FELLOWSHIP IS FOR STUDIES LEADING TO A POSTGRADUATE DEGREE EITHER BY RESEARCH OR BY COURSEWORK; THE SCHOLARSHIP IS FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES LEADING TO A FIRST DEGREE.
THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE FOR THE AWARD IS EXPECTED TO DEMONSTRATE HIS/HER ABILITY TO MAINTAIN HEALTH OF BODY AND OF MIND, TO ADAPT TO NEW ENVIRONMENT AND TO BE A GOOD EXAMPLE TO OTHER DISABLED PERSONS.
HE/SHE IS REQUIRED TO SERVE IN HONG KONG FOR AT LEAST THREE YEARS UPON GRADUATION.
THE APPLICANTS WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR FULFILLING ALL APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS OF THE ACADEMIC INSTITUTION OF HIS/HER CHOICE, AND BE OFFERED A PLACE SUBSEQUENTLY.
THE VALUE FOR THE FELLOWSHIP IS ABOUT HK$175,000 PER YEAR FOR UP TO TWO YEARS; THE VALUE FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP IS ABOUT HK$160,000 PER YEAR UP TO THREE YEARS.
APPLICATION FORMS AND INFORMATION NOTES ARE AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING ADDRESSES
(A) STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AGENCY NINTH FLOOR NATIONAL MUTUAL CENTRE 151, GLOUCESTER ROAD WAN CHAI HONG KONG
/(B) CAREERS AND ........
SUNDAY, AUGUST 15, 1993
- 9 -
(B) CAREERS AND GUIDANCE SERVICES SECTION EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ROOM 206 MONGKOK GOVERNMENT OFFICES 30 LUEN WAN STREET MONG KOK KOWLOON
(C) PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE COUNTERS IN ALL DISTRICT OFFICES
FOR ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL 802 1638.
CLOSING DATE FOR ALL APPLICATIONS WILL BE OCTOBER 15. SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE INVITED TO ATTEND A SELECTION INTERVIEW IN HONG KONG SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER 1993/JANUARY 1994.
- - 0 - -
SWD RECEIVES
DONATION FROM JOCKEY CLUB
*****
THE ROYAL HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB HAS DONATED $2 MILLION TO THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT FOR THE INSTALLATION OF AN AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM AT ITS LADY TRENCH TRAINING CENTRE IN WAN CHAI.
THE INSTALLATION OF THE AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM AT THE HALL OF THE CENTRE IS NOW BEING CARRIED OUT AND IT IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED AT THE END OF THIS MONTH.
A COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE WILL BE MOUNTED AT THE HALL TO GIVE RECOGNITION TO THE CLUB’S DONATION.
THE CENTRE, WHICH ACCOMMODATES THE TRAINING SECTION OF THE DEPARTMENT, PROVIDES VARIOUS TYPES OF IN-SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAMMES FOR ITS OWN STAFF AS WELL AS SOCIAL WELFARE PERSONNEL IN NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS. IT HAS BEEN OPERATIONAL SINCE 1970.
/10........
SUNDAY, AUGUST 15, 1993
10
RESERVOIR FISHING SEASON TO BEGIN NEXT MONTH
*****
ANGLERS WISHING TO INDULGE THEIR PASTIME IN LOCAL RESERVOIRS DURING THE COMING FISHING SEASON MAY APPLY FOR A LICENCE FROM THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT, STARTING TOMORROW (MONDAY).
THE NEXT FISHING SEASON IN RESERVOIRS WILL BEGIN ON SEPTEMBER 1.
THOSE WHO WISH TO APPLY CAN CALL AT THE CONSUMER ENQUIRY CENTRE AT THE DEPARTMENT’S HEADQUARTERS ON THE 4 4TH FLOOR OF IMMIGRATION TOWER, 7 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI.
APPLICATIONS CAN ALSO BE MADE AT THE GROUND FLOOR OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT’S MAINLAND DEPOT AT THE JUNCTION OF SAI YEE STREET AND ARGYLE STREET IN MONG KOK, CONSUMER ENQUIRY CENTRES ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF NGAU TAU KOK GOVERNMENT OFFICES AT 21, ON WAH STREET AND ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF PERFECT MOUNT GARDENS IN PO MAN STREET, SHAU KEI WAN.
APPLICANTS WILL BE REQUIRED TO PRODUCE THEIR IDENTITY CARDS AND PAY A LICENCE FEE OF $20. A LICENCE WOULD NORMALLY BE ISSUED IMMEDIATELY UPON SUBMISSION OF THE APPLICATION.
APPLICATIONS CAN ALSO BE MADE BY POST TO THE DEPARTMENT’S HEADQUARTERS AT IMMIGRATION TOWER, GIVING THE APPLICANT’S NAME, ADDRESS, PHOTOCOPY OF HIS IDENTITY CARD, TOGETHER WITH A CROSSED CHEQUE FOR $20 PAYABLE TO THE GOVERNMENT.
A LICENCE WILL THEN BE SENT TO THE APPLICANT BY ORDINARY MAIL. A LICENCE WILL NOT BE ISSUED TO PEOPLE UNDER THE AGE OF 13.
ANGLERS HAVE TO OBSERVE CERTAIN RULES WHILE FISHING IN RESERVOIRS. THEY SHOULD NOT USE A NET OR TOOLS OTHER THAN ROD AND LINE.
EXPLOSIVES AND TOXIC SUBSTANCES ARE PROHIBITED. THE USE OF A BOAT, DINGHY OR RAFT IS ALSO BANNED.
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
LABOUR DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES PERFORMANCE PLEDGE ............... 1
NEW AIRCRAFT TAXIWAY BRIDGE PROVIDES SHORTER ROUTE TO RUNWAY 3
ANNUAL RECRUITMENT FOR FIVE CIVIL SERVICE GRADES ............. 4
ANALYSIS OF HK'S RE-EXPORT TRADE IN FIRST SIX MONTHS ......... 4
DONATION FUNDS NEW HOME FOR ELDERLY .......................... 8
COMMITTEE ON DISCIPLINED SERVICES PAY REAPPOINTED ............ 8
HOT AND DRY IN JULY .......................................... 9
DRAGON BOAT RACES HELD ON HUDSON RIVER ....................... 12
FRESH WATER CUT IN SAN PO KONG ............................... 13
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ......................................... 13
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS ............ 13
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
14
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
LABOUR DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES PERFORMANCE PLEDGE
*****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) ANNOUNCED ITS PERFORMANCE PLEDGE ON VARIOUS SERVICES TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
"WE ARE COMMITTED TO PROVIDING AN EFFICIENT, COURTEOUS AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS IN A CLEAN AND FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
"OUR SERVICES WILL BE DELIVERED TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WITHIN THE TARGET STANDARDS SET OUT IN THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGE," HE SAID.
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THE SERVICES COVERED IN THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGE INCLUDED EMPLOYMENT SERVICE, CONCILIATION OF LABOUR DISPUTES, EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION, REGISTRATION OF PRESSURE EQUIPMENT AND THE GENERAL ENQUIRY TELEPHONE SERVICE.
"ON EMPLOYMENT SERVICE, INFORMATION ON JOB VACANCIES WILL BE DISPLAYED WITHIN 24 HOURS OF RECEIPT OF A VACANCY ORDER FROM AN EMPLOYER EITHER BY TELEPHONE, FAX OR OTHER MEANS," HE SAID.
"JOB-SEEKERS WILL BE SERVED WITHIN 30 MINUTES OF THE APPOINTED TIME IF AN APPOINTMENT HAS TO BE MADE IN THE MORE BUSY OFFICES."
IN RESOLVING DISPUTES INVOLVING MORE THAN 20 EMPLOYEES OR RESULTING IN WORK STOPPAGES, THE SPOKESMAN SAID CONCILIATION OFFICERS WOULD CONTACT THE PARTIES CONCERNED AT ONCE AND TRY TO ARRANGE CONCILIATION MEETINGS AT THE EARLIEST POSSIBLE TIME.
"CLAIM CASES FOR UNPAID EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS WILL BE DISCUSSED WITHIN 30 MINUTES WITH A VIEW TO RESOLVING THEM STRAIGHTAWAY," HE SAID.
"A CONCILIATION MEETING WILL BE ARRANGED WITHIN THREE TO FOUR WEEKS IF A CASE CANNOT BE RESOLVED AT THE FIRST INSTANCE."
WITH REGARD TO EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION, THE SPOKESMAN SAID AN INJURED EMPLOYEE SEEKING MEDICAL CLEARANCE OR REFERRAL TO AN ASSESSMENT BOARD AT THE OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE UNIT WOULD BE INTERVIEWED WITHIN 30 MINUTES OF THE APPOINTED TIME IF AN APPOINTMENT HAD TO BE MADE AT BUSY TIMES.
"A CERTIFICATE OF COMPENSATION ASSESSMENT WILL BE ISSUED TO THE EMPLOYEE WITHIN TWO WEEKS AFTER MEDICAL CLEARANCE OR WITHIN THREE WEEKS AFTER ASSESSMENT BY AN ASSESSMENT BOARD," HE SAID.
AS FOR REGISTRATION OF PRESSURE EQUIPMENT, HE SAID THE PROCESS OF AN APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF EQUIPMENT WILL BE COMPLETED WITHIN THREE WEEKS UPON RECEIPT OF ALL RELEVANT INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION.
MEANWHILE, THE GENERAL ENQUIRY TELEPHONE SERVICE HOTLINE, WITH THE USE OF AN INTERACTIVE VOICE PROCESSING SYSTEM CARRYING 18 TELEPHONE LINES, PROVIDES 24-HOUR SERVICE TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
/"THE COMPUTERISED .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
- 2 -
"THE COMPUTERISED SYSTEM IS SUPPLEMENTED BY 14 STAFF MEMBERS DURING OFFICE HOURS TO ANSWER ENQUIRIES WHEN FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED AFTER LISTENING TO THE PRE-RECORDED INFORMATION ON VARIOUS ITEMS OF LABOUR LEGISLATION,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"FAX TRANSMISSION OF INFORMATION IS ALSO AVAILABLE THROUGH THE SYSTEM."
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE PUBLIC WERE WELCOME TO COMMENT OR SUGGEST THE WAY IN WHICH THE SERVICES WERE DELIVERED.
"OUR CUSTOMERS HAVE A RIGHT TO A FULL AND PROMPT EXPLANATION ON THE OCCASIONS WHEN, DESPITE OUR BEST EFFORTS, THE STANDARDS ARE NOT ACHIEVED," HE SAID.
"SUGGESTIONS OR COMPLAINTS CAN BE RAISED IN PERSON TO THE OFFICER MANAGER ON THE SPOT."
ALTERNATIVELY, THEY MAY CONTACT THE CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER OF THE SERVICE BY TELEPHONE OR IN WRITING AT:
SERVICE
ADDRESS
TELEPHONE
EMPLOYMENT SERVICE EMPLOYMENT SERVICES DIVISION 17/F HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG 852 4155
CONCILIATION OF LABOUR DISPUTES LABOUR RELATIONS DIVISION 12/F HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG 852 3515
REGISTRATION OF PRESSURE EQUIPMENT PRESSURE EQUIPMENT DIVISION 17/F HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG 852 4183
EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION EMPLOYEES’ COMPENSATION DIVISION CANTON ROAD GOVERNMENT OFFICES 5/F, 393 CANTON ROAD, KOWLOON 733 2353
GENERAL ENQUIRY TELEPHONE SERVICE LABOUR INSPECTION DIVISION 17/F HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG 815 2200
"IF YOU ARE NOT SURE WHO THE APPROPRIATE PERSON IS TO APPROACH, YOU MAY WRITE TO THE PUBLICITY LIAISON OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT ON 16/F, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"WE WILL REPLY TO ALL WRITTEN ENQUIRIES OR COMPLAINTS WITHIN 10 DAYS AND WE WILL GIVE AN INTERIM REPLY IF THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE.
"IF YOU STILL FEEL THAT YOUR CASE HAS NOT BEEN DEALT WITH ADEQUATELY, YOU MAY WRITE TO THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR ON 16/F, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG," HE ADDED.
/THE SPOKESMAN .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
- 3 -
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THE COMMISSIONER FOR LABOUR WOULD MONITOR PERFORMANCE AGAINST TARGETS.
”A CUSTOMER LIAISON GROUP WILL BE FORMED TO COLLECT CUSTOMERS’ FEEDBACK ON THE STANDARD OF OUR SERVICES,” HE SAID.
’’THE RESULTS WILL BE PUBLISHED ANNUALLY,” HE ADDED.
A BILINGUAL LEAFLET LISTING THE STANDARDS OF VARIOUS SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN PUBLISHED AND IS NOW AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AT ALL LABOUR DEPARTMENT BRANCH OFFICES THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY.
------0--------
NEW AIRCRAFT TAXIWAY BRIDGE PROVIDES SHORTER ROUTE TO RUNWAY *****
A NEW TAXIWAY BRIDGE - TAXIWAY BRIDGE NO. 3 - LINKING THE HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT’S RUNWAY PROMONTORY AND SOUTHERN END OF THE NEWLY CONSTRUCTED SOUTH APRON WAS COMMISSIONED FOR USE TODAY (MONDAY).
TO COPE WITH THE INCREASING TRAFFIC DEMAND, THE CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT HAD PROCEEDED WITH A PACKAGE OF IMPROVEMENT WORKS INCLUDING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SOUTH APRON IN THE KOWLOON BAY RECLAMATION AREA TO PROVIDE 11 ADDITIONAL AIRCRAFT PARKING BAYS, BRINGING THE TOTAL NUMBER TO 69.
AFTER LANDING FROM THE KOWLOON PENINSULA DIRECTION, AIRCRAFT WILL NOW HAVE AN ALTERNATIVE ROUTE TO TAXI TO THEIR ALLOCATED PARKING POSITIONS EITHER AT THE SOUTH APRON OR THE MAIN APRON BY WAY OF THE NEW BRIDGE, AND EXIT THE SOUTH APRON VIA BRIDGE NO. 2, SITUATED AT THE NORTHERN END OF THE SOUTH APRON. OTHERWISE THE SOUTH APRON WOULD BE A CUL-DE-SAC.
DEPARTING FLIGHTS TAKING OFF FROM THE LEI YUE MUN END OF THE RUNWAY, PARTICULARLY THOSE PARKED AT THE SOUTH APRON, WILL ALSO BENEFIT FROM THE NEW FACILITY.
TO ENSURE THAT THE COMPLETION OF TAXIWAY BRIDGE NO. 3 COINCIDES WITH THE COMPLETION OF THE SOUTH APRON, THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BRIDGE WAS AWARDED BY THE CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT UNDER THE FIRST EVER FAST-TRACK "DESIGN-AND-CONSTRUCT" GOVERNMENT CONTRACT.
THE CONTRACT VALUE WAS $109 MILLION AND WORK STARTED IN MID-MAY LAST YEAR.
MEASURING 46 METRES WIDE AND 220 METRES LONG, AND SPANNING THE KOWLOON BAY SEA CHANNEL, THE BRIDGE WAS DESIGNED TO TAKE THE LOAD OF THE LARGEST AIRCRAFT IN SERVICE AND THOSE ENVISAGED TO BE IN SERVICE IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
- - 0 - -
/4 ........
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
ANNUAL RECRUITMENT FOR FIVE CIVIL SERVICE GRADES
*****
UNIVERSITY GRADUATES INTERESTED IN MAKING A CAREER IN THE CIVIL SERVICE SHOULD WATCH OUT FOR ADVERTISEMENTS IN NEWSPAPERS OVER THE NEXT TWO SATURDAYS (AUGUST 21 AND 28).
VACANCIES IN FIVE GRADES WILL BE ADVERTISED: ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER, EXECUTIVE OFFICER II, ASSISTANT LABOUR OFFICER II, MANAGEMENT SERVICES OFFICER II AND ASSISTANT TRADE OFFICER II.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE BRANCH SAID TODAY (MONDAY) THAT TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF EXAMINATIONS FOR CANDIDATES FOR JOBS IN THESE DIFFERENT GRADES, A COMMON RECRUITMENT EXAMINATION WILL BE HELD IN EARLY NOVEMBER.
AS IN THE PAST, THIS YEAR’S EXAMINATION WILL CONSIST OF THREE PAPERS: PAPER 1 (ONE HOUR) IS USE OF ENGLISH, PAPER 2 (1 HOUR 15 MINUTES) IS OBJECTIVE TESTS AND PAPER 3 (3 HOURS) IS A TASK PAPER.
THE WEIGHTINGS OF THESE PAPERS ARE 30 PER CENT, 20 PER CENT AND 50 PER CENT RESPECTIVELY. PAPERS 1 AND 2 ARE IN ENGLISH WHILE HALF OF THE QUESTIONS IN PAPER 3 ARE SET IN CHINESE AND MUST BE ANSWERED IN CHINESE.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID RECRUITMENT FOR THESE FIVE GRADES WAS CONDUCTED ON AN ANNUAL BASIS.
VACANCIES FOR THESE GRADES WILL BE ADVERTISED IN AN ENGLISH DAILY, A CHINESE DAILY AND A CHINESE EVENING DAILY.
THE ADVERTISEMENTS WILL GIVE DETAILS OF THE JOB DESCRIPTIONS FOR EACH POST, THE QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AND REMUNERATION, AS WELL AS APPLICATION PROCEDURES. APPLICATION FOR THESE VACANCIES WILL CLOSE IN EARLY SEPTEMBER.
- - 0 - -
ANALYSIS OF HK’S RE-EXPORT TRADE IN FIRST SIX MONTHS
*****
RE-EXPORTS ACCOUNTED FOR 78% OF THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS AND 38% OF THE TOTAL VALUE OF EXTERNAL TRADE OF HONG KONG IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993.
IN THE SAME PERIOD OF 1992, THE CORRESPONDING SHARES WERE 74% AND 36% RESPECTIVELY.
THESE FIGURES, AFFIRMING THE GROWING IMPORTANCE OF RE-EXPORT TRADE, ARE AMONGST THE DETAILED RE-EXPORT STATISTICS RELEASED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY).
/CHINA REMAINED
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
- 5 -
CHINA REMAINED THE LARGEST PARTNER FOR HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORT TRADE. OF THE TOTAL $376 BILLION OF RE-EXPORTS GOING THROUGH HONG KONG IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, 87% OR $329 BILLION INVOLVED CHINA IN EITHER DIRECTION.
RE-EXPORTS ORIGINATING IN CHINA ACCOUNTED FOR 56% OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORT VALUE IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993. AS A DESTINATION, CHINA’S SHARE WAS 34%.
IT IS NOTED THAT MUCH OF THE RE-EXPORT TRADE INVOLVING CHINA IS RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING, AS RAW MATERIALS AND SEMI-MANUFACTURED GOODS ARE EXPORTED TO CHINA FOR PROCESSING AND THE FINAL PRODUCTS SUBSEQUENTLY RETURNED TO HONG KONG.
OTHER MAJOR ORIGINS FOR HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 INCLUDED JAPAN (ACCOUNTING FOR A SHARE OF 14%), TAIWAN (8.2%), THE UNITED STATES (4.7%) AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (2.7%).
THE MAJOR DESTINATIONS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, BESIDES CHINA, INCLUDED THE UNITED STATES (ACCOUNTING FOR A SHARE OF 21%), JAPAN (5.0%), GERMANY (4.9%) AND TAIWAN (2.9%).
TABLE 1 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS FROM THE 10 MAJOR ORIGINS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
COMPARING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS FROM MOST MAJOR ORIGINS: GERMANY (+74%), SINGAPORE (+51%), JAPAN (+42%), MALAYSIA (+35%), TAIWAN (+24%), CHINA (+18%), THE UNITED STATES (+15%), FRANCE (+13%), THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+11%) AND THE UNITED KINGDOM (+8.6%).
OF THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS ORIGINATING IN CHINA IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, 35% WENT TO THE UNITED STATES, 8.2% TO GERMANY AND 7.0% TO JAPAN.
FOR GOODS OF JAPAN ORIGIN, 71% OF THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS THROUGH HONG KONG IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WENT TO CHINA, 3.5% TO THE UNITED STATES AND 3.1% TO TAIWAN.
FOR RE-EXPORTS ORIGINATING IN TAIWAN, AN OVERWHELMING PROPORTION, 92% OF THE VALUE IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, WENT TO CHINA.
AS REGARDS RE-EXPORTS ORIGINATING IN THE UNITED STATES, 64% OF THE VALUE IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WERE SHIPPED TO CHINA, 6.3% TO TAIWAN AND 5.5% TO SINGAPORE.
TABLE 2 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR DESTINATIONS.
COMPARING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO MOST MAJOR DESTINATIONS : CHINA (+36%), SINGAPORE (+26%), THE UNITED KINGDOM (+24%), THE UNITED STATES (+22%), GERMANY (+22%), FRANCE (+19%), JAPAN (+15%), CANADA (+10%) AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+3.9%). HOWEVER, A DECREASE OF 18% WAS RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO TAIWAN.
/ANALYSED BY
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
- 6 -
ANALYSED BY COMMODITY, SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA WERE RECORDED FOR ROAD VEHICLES (BY $9,026 MILLION OR 212%); MACHINERY SPECIALISED FOR PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES (BY $3,179 MILLION OR 59%); AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $3,076 MILLION OR 75%).
HOWEVER, DECREASES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA WERE RECORDED FOR MEDICINAL AND PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS (BY $299 MILLION OR 20%); AND ORGANIC CHEMICALS (BY $212 MILLION OR 15%).
AS REGARDS RE-EXPORTS TO THE UNITED STATES, SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN VALUE WERE RECORDED FOR FOOTWEAR (BY $4,038 MILLION OR 44%); CLOTHING (BY $2,608 MILLION OR 26%); AND MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $2,008 MILLION OR 12%).
HOWEVER, DECREASES IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS TO THE UNITED STATES WERE RECORDED FOR FISH, CRUSTACEANS, MOLLUSCS AND AQUATIC INVERTEBRATES AND PREPARATIONS THEREOF (BY $79 MILLION OR 29%); AND ESSENTIAL OILS AND RESINOIDS AND PERFUME MATERIALS; TOILET, POLISHING AND CLEANSING PREPARATIONS (BY $51 MILLION OR 30%).
DETAILED STATISTICS OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORT TRADE ARE PUBLISHED IN THE JUNE 1993 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE" REPORT WHICH WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT $68.50 A COPY AROUND AUGUST 24.
THE REPORT CAN BE PURCHASED EITHER AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL; OR THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON THE 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAT TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WANCHAI.
ENQUIRIES REGARDING SUBSCRIPTION TO THIS REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG ON TEL 842 8802 AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE STATISTICS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 582 4915.
TABLE 1 : RE-EXPORTS FROM THE 10 MAJOR ORIGINS
ORIGIN JAN-JUN 1993 (HKD MN.) JAN-JUN 1992 (HKD MN.) YEAR-ON-YEAR CHANGE
(HKD MN.) (% CHANGE)
CHINA 209,244 17R,021 + 31,223 + 17.5
JAPAN 52,927 37,214 + 15,713 + 42.2
TAIWAN 30,752 24,770 + 5,982 + 24.1
UNITED STATES 17,625 15,287 + 2,338 + 15.3
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 10,279 9,286 + 994 + 10.7
/GERMANY
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
GERMANY 6,847 3,942 + 2,905 + 73.7
SINGAPORE 5,308 3,504 + 1,803 + 51.5
UNITED KINGDOM 3,835 3,530 + 305 + 8.6
FRANCE 3,506 3,116 + 390 + 12.5
MALAYSIA 3,097 2,294 + 803 + 35.0
TABLE 2 : RE-EXPORTS TO THE 10 MAJOR DESTINATIONS
DESTINATION JAN-JUN 1993 (HKD MN.) JAN-JUN 1992 (HKD MN.) YEAR-ON-YEAR CHANGE
(HKD MN.) (% CHANGE)
CHINA 129,354 95,180 + 34,175 + 35.9
UNITED STATES 78,080 63,917 + 14,163 + 22.2
JAPAN 18,724 16,322 + 2,402 + 14.7
GERMANY 18,275 14,953 + 3,321 + 22.2
TAIWAN 10,846 13,239 - 2,393 - 18.1
UNITED KINGDOM 10,226 8,241 + 1,985 + 24.1
SINGAPORE 8,102 6,457 + 1,645 + 25.5
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 7,160 6,893 + 267 + 3.9
FRANCE 6,192 5,212 + 979 + 18.8
CANADA 5,670 5, 146 + 524 + 10.2
- - 0 - -
/8 ........
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
- 8
DONATION FUNDS NEW HOME FOR ELDERLY *****
THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) RECEIVED A DONATION OF $10 MILLION FOR PROVIDING SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY.
THE DONATION WAS MADE BY MRS HO TIM.
IN ACCORDANCE WITH HER WISHES, THE DONATION WILL HELP ASIA WOMEN’S LEAGUE BUILD A CARE-AND-ATTENTION HOME FOR THE ELDERLY ON RENFREW ROAD IN KOWLOON TONG.
SPEAKING AT A CHEQUE-PRESENTATION CEREMONY, THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR IAN STRACHAN, SAID THERE WAS AN ACUTE SHORTFALL OF CARE-AND-ATTENTION PLACES IN HONG KONG.
"TO MEET THIS SHORTFALL, PLANS ARE IN PLACE TO PROVIDE 5,000 ADDITIONAL CARE-AND-ATTENTION PLACES IN FOUR YEARS, MAKING A TOTAL PROVISION OF 9,500 SUBVERTED CARE-AND-ATTENTION PLACES.
"COUPLED WITH AGED HOME PLACES, THE TOTAL NUMBER OF SUBVERTED PLACES IN RESIDENTIAL HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY WILL REACH 17,700 PLACES BY EARLY 1997," HE SAID.
"THIS GENEROUS DONATION HAS MADE IT POSSIBLE TO BRING EARLY RELIEF TO THE DEMAND FOR PLACEMENTS FOR THE ELDERLY," HE ADDED.
THE HOME WILL PROVIDE 190 ADDITIONAL CARE-AND-ATTENTION PLACES AND WILL BE COMPLETED IN THE LATTER PART OF 1995.
--------0-----------
COMMITTEE ON DISCIPLINED SERVICES PAY REAPPOINTED
*****
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (MONDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT MRS MIRIAM LAU HAS BEEN REAPPOINTED AS CHAIRMAN OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE ON DISCIPLINED SERVICES SALARIES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE.
ALSO REAPPOINTED ARE MR ANTHONY NEOH, CHAIRMAN OF THE ICAC SUBCOMMITTEE; MR RONALD ARCULLI, CHAIRMAN OF THE GENERAL DISCIPLINED SERVICES SUB-COMMITTEE; AND MR MARTIN BARROW, CHAIRMAN OF THE POLICE SUB-COMMITTEE.
TN ADDITION, MR ANTHONY CHEUNG, MR TANG KWAI-NANG, MR CHOW CHUN-FAI, MR POON CHIN-HUNG, MR YEUNG KA-SING, DR WILFRED CHAN AND MR BRIAN RENWICK HAVE ALL BEEN REAPPOINTED AS MEMBERS OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE.
THE REAPPOINTMENTS ARE FOR A PERIOD OF TWO YEARS, WITH EFFECT FROM OCTOBER 1 THIS YEAR.
THE STANDING COMMITTEE ON DISCIPLINED SERVICES SALARIES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE IS A PERMANENT BODY APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR TO ADVISE AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE STRUCTURE OF THE DISCIPLINED SERVICES, AND THE SALARIES AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE OF THEIR STAFF.
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
9 HOT AND DRY IN JULY *****
JULY WAS A HOT MONTH WITH THE MEAN AIR TEMPERATURE OF 29.4 DEGREES RANKING THE SECOND HIGHEST ON RECORD, ACCORDING TO A MONTHLY WEATHER REPORT OF THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY.
THE TEMPERATURE IS JUST BELOW THE HIGHEST JULY MEAN OF 29.7 DEGREES RECORDED IN 1967.
THE MONTH’S MEAN MINIMUM AND MEAN WET BULB TEMPERATURES OF 27.6 DEGREES AND 26.5 DEGREES ALSO BROKE THE RECORD.
THERE WERE ALSO LONG SUNNY SPELLS WITH ABOUT 12 PER CENT MORE SUNSHINE HOURS THAN NORMAL.
ON THE WHOLE THE MONTH WAS ALSO MUCH DRIER.
ALTHOUGH SEVERE TROPICAL STORM LEWIS BROUGHT OVER 100 MILLIMETRES OF RAIN TO HONG KONG, THE TOTAL RAINFALL FOR THE MONTH WAS ONLY 213.7 MILLIMETRES, 66 PER CENT OF THE JULY NORMAL OF 323.5 MILLIMETRES.
THIS EVENED OUT THE EXCESS RAINFALL IN JUNE. AS A RESULT, THE TOTAL RAINFALL FOR THE FIRST SEVEN MONTHS OF THE YEAR WAS 1,257.1 MILLIMETRES, ABOUT FOUR PER CENT BELOW THE NORMAL AMOUNT OF 1,316.0 MILLIMETRES FOR THE SAME PERIOD.
THE FINE WEATHER AT THE END OF JUNE CONTINUED INTO EARLY JULY. APART FROM SOME BRIEF MORNING SHOWERS, THE FIRST NINE DAYS OF THE MONTH WERE SUNNY AND HOT WITH MODERATE WINDS MAINLY FROM THE SOUTHWEST.
MEANWHILE, THE CLOUD CLUSTER OVER THE CENTRAL PHILIPPINES DEVELOPED INTO A TROPICAL DEPRESSION NAMED LEWIS ON JULY 8. IT MOVED INTO THE SOUTH CHINA SEA AND INTENSIFIED THE NEXT DAY.
LOCAL WEATHER STARTED OFF FINE APART FROM A FEW MORNING SHOWERS ON JULY 10. THE MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 33.5 DEGREES THAT DAY WAS THE HIGHEST OF THE MONTH.
HOWEVER, THE WEATHER DETERIORATED SIGNIFICANTLY IN THE EVENING WHEN THE PERIPHERAL RAIN BANDS OF LEWIS BROUGHT HEAVY SHOWERS AND SQUALLY THUNDERSTORMS TO HONG KONG.
WINDS STRENGTHENED FROM THE EAST AND BECAME STRONG GUSTY OFFSHORE.
SEVERE TROPICAL STORM LEWIS CONTINUED TO MOVE WESTWARDS OVER THE NORTHERN PART OF THE SOUTH CHINA SEA ON JULY 11 TO 13 AND THE WEATHER IN HONG KONG REMAINED UNSETTLED WITH HEAVY SHOWERS AND OCCASIONAL SQUALLY THUNDERSTORMS.
TEMPERATURES DROPPED TO THE MONTH’S MINIMUM OF 24.3DEGREES DURING A HEAVY DOWNPOUR IN THE SMALL HOURS OF JULY 14.
/AS LEWIS .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
10 -
AS LEWIS LANDED AND DISSIPATED OVER NORTHERN VIETNAM, THE WEATHER IN HONG KONG IMPROVED RAPIDLY DURING THE DAY ON JULY 14.
EASTERLY WINDS SUBSIDED AND WERE GRADUALLY REPLACED BY A MODERATE SOUTHWESTERLY AIRSTREAM. A FINE SPELL THEN PREVAILED FROM JULY 15 TO 19.
WINDS TURNED SOUTHERLY ON THE NEXT TWO DAYS AND THE WEATHER WAS FINE AND HOT APART FROM MORNING SHOWERS.
IN THE MORNING ON JULY 22, A BAND OF ACTIVE THUNDERSTORMS DEVELOPED OVER THE WATERS TO THE EAST OF HONG KONG. IT MOVED STEADILY IN TO AFFECT THE TERRITORY.
ABOUT 60 MILLIMETRES OF RAIN WAS RECORDED AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY WITHIN AN HOUR, NECESSITATING THE ISSUANCE OF THE ONLY FLOOD WARNING OF THE MONTH.
THE HEAVY SHOWERS DID NOT LAST LONG AND THE WEATHER IMPROVED RAPIDLY BEFORE NOON.
THE WEATHER FOR THE NEXT EIGHT DAYS REMAINED MAINLY FINE APART FROM BRIEF SHOWERS AND ISOLATED THUNDERSTORMS.
AFTERNOON MAXIMUM TEMPERATURES CLIMBED STEADILY DURING THE PERIOD AND REACHED THE MONTH’S MAXIMUM OF 33.5 DEGREES FOR A SECOND TIME ON JULY 29.
AN AREA OF UNSETTLED WEATHER DEVELOPED OVER THE NORTHERN PART OF THE SOUTH CHINA SEA TOWARDS THE END OF THE MONTH.
ISOLATED THUNDERY SHOWERS BEGAN TO AFFECT THE TERRITORY ON JULY 30, WITH MORE FREQUENT HEAVY SHOWERS OCCURRING THE NEXT DAY WHEN AN EASTERLY AIRSTREAM REACHED THE SOUTH CHINA COASTAL AREAS.
FIVE TROPICAL CYCLONES DEVELOPED OVER THE WESTERN NORTH PACIFIC AND THE SOUTH CHINA SEA IN JULY. SEVERE TROPICAL STORM LEWIS WAS THE ONLY ONE THAT MOVED INTO THE SOUTH CHINA SEA.
DURING THE MONTH, TWO AIRCRAFT WERE DIVERTED FROM HONG KONG BECAUSE OF INCLEMENT WEATHER. DETAILS OF THE 1SSUANCE/HOISTING AND CANCELLATION/LOWERJNG OF VARIOUS WARN INGS/SIGNALS IN THE MONTH ARE SUMMARISED IN TABLE 1.1.
MONTHLY METEOROLOGICAL FIGURES AND DEPARTURES FROM NORMAL FOR JULY ARE TABULATED IN TABLE 1.2.
/TABLE 1.1 .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
11
TABLE 1. 1
WARNINGS AND SIGNALS IN JULY 1993
WARNINGS / SIGNALS
EFFECTIVE DATE AND TIME
TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING SIGNALS
LEWIS SIGNAL NO. 1 JUL 10 0005 - JUL 10 2200
FLOOD WARNING JUL 22 0430 - JUL 22 0755
THUNDERSTORM WARNINGS JUL 10 1640 - JUL 10 1840
JUL 10 2125 - JUL 1 1 0600
JUL 1 1 1250 - JUL 11 1450
JUL 13 1405 - JUL 13 1605
JUL 22 0400 - JUL 22 1000
JUL 28 0435 - JUL 28 0735
JUL 29 1915 - JUL 29 2115
JUL 30 0825 - JUL 30 1 125
JUL 30 1335 - JUL 30 1535
JUL 31 0005 - JUL 31 0705
JUL 31 0845 - JUL 31 1430
JUL 31 1600 - JUL 31 2000
JUL 31 2330 - AUG 1 0730
TABLE 1.2
FIGURES AND DEPARTURES FROM NORMAL
TOTAL BRIGHT SUNSHINE
MEAN DAILY GLOBAL SOLAR RADIATION
TOTAL RAINFALL
MEAN CLOUD AMOUNT
MEAN RELATIVE HUMIDITY
MEAN DAILY MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE
MEAN AIR TEMPERATURE
MEAN DAILY MINIMUM TEMPERATURE
MEAN DEW POINT
TOTAL EVAPORATION
- JULY 1993
259.8 HOURS;
28.7 HOURS ABOVE NORMAL
19.18 MJ/SQM;
0.03 MJ/SQM ABOVE NORMAI
213.7 MM;
109.8 MM BELOW NORMAL
75 % ; 10 % ABOVE NORMAL
79 % ; 1 % BELOW NORMAL
32.0 DEGREES;
0.5 DEGREE ABOVE NORMAL
29.4 DEGREES;
0.6 DEGREE ABOVE NORMAL
27.6 DEGREES;
1.0 DEGREE ABOVE NORMAL
25.3 DEGREES;
0.4 DEGREE ABOVE NORMAL
150.5 MM;
21.1 MM BELOW NORMAL
---------0-----------
/12........
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
12 DRAGON BOAT RACES HELD ON HUDSON RIVER « » * * *
THE U.S. DRAGON BOAT ASSOCIATION TEAM FROM PHILADELPHIA BEAT 11 OTHER TEAMS TO CAPTURE THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT CHAMPIONSHIP RACE YESTERDAY (SUNDAY) AS THE THIRD ANNUAL HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK REACHED A CRESCENDO.
WITH A WINNING TIME OF 1 MINUTE 37 SECONDS, THE U.S. DRAGON BOAT ASSOCIATION TEAM, PHILADELPHIA, OUT-PADDLED TEAMS FROM ACROSS THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA IN A TRADITIONAL 640-METRE RACE ON THE HUDSON RIVER OFF LOWER MANHATTAN IN THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT CHAMPIONSHIP RACE.
THE TEAM WILL BE FLOWN TO HONG KONG TO COMPETE IN THE 1994 HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT RACE.
TENS OF THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE VIEWED THE RACE AND VISITED THE WEEK-LONG HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL, HELD AT THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTRE.
THE FESTIVAL WAS PRESENTED BY THE HONG KONG ECONOMIC & TRADE OFFICE IN NEW YORK AND HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK AND WAS SPONSORED BY HONGKONGBANK.
"SINCE THE LAUNCHING OF THE FIRST HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK IN 1991, THIS TRADITIONAL CHINESE FESTIVAL SPORTING EVENT HAS CAUGHT ON IN NEW YORK," SAID HONG KONG COMMISSIONER, USA, MR BARRIE WIGGHAM, AT THE OPENING CEREMONY FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP RACE.
"I AM ESPECIALLY PLEASED TO SEE THAT THIS YEAR, NOT ONLY HAS THE NUMBER OF TEAMS PARTICIPATING IN THE DRAGON BOAT RACES DOUBLED, BUT ALSO THE SCOPE OF THIS YEAR’S EVENT HAS EXPANDED TO INCLUDE AN EXHIBITION AND CULTURAL FAIR AT THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTRE," SAID MR WIGGHAM.
"THE MANY EXCITING EVENTS OF THE FESTIVAL WILL ENABLE NEW YORKERS TO GAIN A COLOURFUL INSIGHT INTO THE MANY FACETED LIFE OF HONG KONG."
THE DAY’S EVENTS INCLUDED A PARADE BY ALL 12 TEAMS LED BY A TRADITIONAL DRAGON DANCE.
THE FOUR-DAY CELEBRATION IN THE WINTER GARDEN AND ON THE PLAZA OUTSIDE OF THE WORLD FINANCIAL CENTRE FESTURES DEMONSTRATIONS OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE DRAFTS, COOKING, MARTIAL ARTS AND DANCES, AND STATE-OF-THE-ART PRODUCTS AND DISPLAYS.
THE DEMONSTRATIONS AND EXHIBITS INCLUDE: CHINESE MUSIC AND DANCE, MARTIAL ARTS, CHINESE KNOTTING, CALLIGRAPHY, ARTISTIC SEAL CARVING, CHINESE PAINTING, AND DOUGH FIGURES. A "HONG KONG VILLAGE" WAS ALSO SET UP ON THE PLAZA.
/13........
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
- 13 -
FRESH WATER CUT IN SAN PO KONG *****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN SAN PO KONG WILL BE SUSPENDED FROM 11 PM ON WEDNESDAY (AUGUST 18) TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT 690-714 PRINCE EDWARD ROAD EAST, 2-48 SHUNG LING STREET, 2-24 YAN 01 STREET, 1-57 AND 2-64 YIN HING STREET, 8-114 CHOI HUNG ROAD, 2-4 AND 3-27 FOO YUEN STREET, 1-33 AND 2-26 KAM WING STREET; AND 15-41 AND 6-120 TSEUK LUK STREET.
WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * *
STORAGE TN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 76 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 445.456 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 502.090 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 85.7 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
--------0-----------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS *****
TENDER DATE
PAPER ON OFFER
ISSUE NUMBER
AMOUNT APPLIED
AMOUNT ALLOTTED
AVERAGE PRICE ACCEPTED
LOWEST PRICE ACCEPTED
PRO RATA RATIO
AVERAGE TENDER PRICE
16 AUGUST 1993 EF NOTES 2508
HK$2,500 MN
HK$500 MN
100.56
100.56 ABOUT 94 PCT 100.42
/I 4 .........
MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 1993
- 14 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,310
REVERSAL OF LAF +690
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -120
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,880
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWT 112.1 *-0.2» 16.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.19 PCT 12 MONTHS 2408 4.375 100.86 3.53
1 MONTH 3.01 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 101.18 3.68
3 MONTHS 3.03 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.22 3.94
6 MONTHS 3.13 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 3.75 99.26 4.23
12 MONTHS 3.47 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 12,816 MN
CLOSED 16 AUGUST 1993
---------0-----------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
10TH ROUND OF SINO-BRTTISH TALKS ............................. 1
CMB LABOUR DISPUTE SETTLED ................................... 1
UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS FOR SECOND QUARTER ........................................................ x
SAFETY IN KINDERGARTEN ACTIVITIES ............................ 2
FORM 6 PLACES FOR CENTRAL ALLOCATION ......................... 3
GARMENT QUOTA BROKER FINED FOR ILLEGAL TRANSHIPMENT .......... 4
MEETING ON CONTROL OF OBSCENE ARTICLES ....................... 4
SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT VISITS MTRC .......................... 5
SFS VISITS CHINESE GOLD AND SILVER EXCHANGE SOCIETY .......... 6
CUSTOMS SEIZE FALSELY DESCRIBED GARMENTS ..................... 6
CAR MARK AUCTION FOR CHARITY ................................. 7
ANTI-POLLUTION PROSECUTION CASES RFIFASFD .................... 8
MORE VIETNAMESE GO HOME ...................................... 15
ENTRIES INVITED TO SWIMMING GAIA ............................. 15
CLOSURE OF TWO ILLEGAL STRUCTURES SOUGHT ..................... 15
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS ............ 16
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONFY MARKET OPFRATTONS ..
17
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
10TH ROUND OF SI NO-BRIT ISH TALKS * * * * *
THE BRITISH SIDE AND THE CHINESE SIDE HAVE AGREED THAT THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE, SIR ROBIN MCLAREN, BRITISH AMBASSADOR TO CHINA, AND THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE, MR JIANG ENZHU, VICE FOREIGN MINISTER OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA, WILL HOLD THEIR TENTH ROUND OF TALKS IN BEIJING ON 4 AND 5 SEPTEMBER 1993 ON THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE 1994/95 ELECTIONS IN HONG KONG IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE S1NO-BR1TISH JOINT DECLARATION, THE PRINCIPLE OF CONVERGENCE WITH THE BASIC LAW AND THE RELEVANT AGREEMENTS AND UNDERSTANDINGS REACHED BETWEEN BRITAIN AND CHINA.
CMB LABOUR DISPUTE SETTLED
* * * * *
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (TUESDAY) WELCOMED THE NEWS THAT CHINA MOTOR BUS (CMB) WORKERS AND THEIR MANAGEMENT HAD COME TO AN AGREEMENT OVER THE STAFF REDUNDANCY ISSUE.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID BOTH SIDES HAI) TAKEN A PRAGMATIC AND POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS THEIR NEGOTIATIONS. WITH THE PUBLIC INTEREST IN MIND, BOTH SIDES HAD DEMONSTRATED CONSIDERABLE RESTRAINT AND PATIENCE DURING THE NEGOTIATION.
’’THE TRAVELLING PUBLIC SHOULD BE RELIEVED TO KNOW THAT THERE WILL BE NO DISRUPTION OF CMB SERVICES.”
’’THE GOVERNMENT, THROUGH THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT AND LABOUR DEPARTMENT, HAS PLAYED AN ACTIVE ROLE IN ASSISTING BOTH SIDES TO COME TO A SETTLEMENT,” HE SAID.
---------0-----------
UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS FOR SECOND QUARTER ******
BOTH THE UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT SITUATION REMAINED BROADLY STABLE IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF THIS YEAR.
THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR APRIL - JUNE 1993 WAS 2.2%, AND THE UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE WAS 2.0%, ACCORDING TO THE LATEST LABOUR FORCE STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (TUESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
/THE PROVISIONAL .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
- 2
THE PROVISIONAL SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR TLE PERIOD MAY - JULY 1993 WAS 2.2%, WHILE THE PROVISIONAL UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE WAS 1.8%.
DURING THE PERIOD APRIL - JUNE 1993, THE NUMBER OF UNEMPLOYED PERSONS, ADJUSTED FOR VARIATIONS IN THE NUMBER OF FIRST-TIME JOBSEEKERS, WAS ESTIMATED AT 62,200, WHILE THE NUMBER OF UNDEREMPLOYED PERSONS WAS ESTIMATED AT 57,100.
THE UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT STATISTICS WERE OBTAINED FROM A CONTINUOUS GENERAL HOUSEHOLD SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE SURVEY FOR APRIL - JUNE 1993 COVERED A QUARTERLY SAMPLE OF SOME 11,900 HOUSEHOLDS OR 41,700 PERSONS, SELECTED SCIENTIFICALLY TO REPRESENT THE LAND-BASED CIVILIAN NON-INSTITUTIONAL POPULATION IN HONG KONG.
RELEVANT DATA WAS OBTAINED BY INTERVIEWING EACH INDIVIDUAL MEMBER AGED 15 AND ABOVE TN THE HOUSEHOLDS SAMPLED.
IN THE SURVEY, THE DEFINITIONS USED IN MEASURING UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT FOLLOW CLOSELY THOSE RECOMMENDED BY THE INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION.
DETAILED ANALYSIS OF LABOUR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS IS GIVEN IN THE REPORT ON THE GENERAL HOUSEHOLD SURVEY WHICH IS PUBLISHED FOUR TIMES A YEAR.
THE NEXT REPORT COVERING THE QUARTER ENDING JUNE 1993 WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE BY THE "END OF SEPTEMBER AT $23.50 A COPY.
---------0-----------
SAFETY IN KINDERGARTEN ACTIVITIES ♦ ♦ * ♦ ♦
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES ABOUT SAFETY IN KINDERGARTEN ACTIVITIES, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID: ’’THE DEPARTMENT WOULD LIKE TO OFFER ITS CONDOLENCES TO THE PARENTS OF A BOY WHO WAS FOUND DEAD IN SHA TIN THIS MORNING.’’
"WE ARE NOW VIGOROUSLY INVESTIGATING INTO THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE CASE. IT WOULD NOT BE APPROPRIATE TO MAKE ANY COMMENTS AT THIS STAGE.
"GUIDELINES ON SAFETY ARE ISSUED ON AN ANNUAL BASIS AS A REMINDER TO OPERATIONS, INCLUDING THE SAFETY OF CHILDREN AT PLAY, IN THE CLASSROOM AND IN THE LABORATORY. THIS WILL BE KEPT IN MIND IN OUR INVESTIGATION," HE SAID.
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/3.........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
- 3 -
FORM 6 PLACES FOR CENTRAL ALLOCATION * * * * *
A TOTAL OF 232 SECONDARY 6 PLACES ARE STILL AVAILABLE AT THE END OF STAGE IV OF THE SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE ENDING TODAY (TUESDAY).
STAGE V BEGINS TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY). THE VACANCIES WILL BE CENTRALLY ALLOCATED TO THIS YEAR’S HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION (HKCEE) PARTICIPANTS WITH MINIMUM A-LEVEL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS.
THEY MAY APPLY FOR CENTRAL ALLOCATION AT ONE OF THE FOLLOWING CENTRES BEFORE 3.30 PM TOMORROW:
♦ HONG KONG REGION
TANG SHIU KIN VICTORIA TECHNICAL SCHOOL 01 KWAN ROAD, WAN CHAI
* KOWLOON REGION
HOMANT1N GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL
8 PERTH STREET, HO MAN TIN
KOWLOON TECHNICAL SCHOOL
332 CHEUNG SHA WAN ROAD, SHAM SHUI PO
♦ NEW TERRITORIES REGION
TSUEN WAN GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL
70 HOI PA STREET, TSUEN WAN
SHA TIN GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL 11-17 MAN LAI ROAD, SHA TIN
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT REMINDED APPLICANTS THAT AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION, A LIST OF SCHOOLS WITH VACANCIES WOULD BE PROVIDED AND THEY SHOULD INDICATE THEIR CHOICES.
HE SAID PRIORITY WOULD SOLELY BE BASED ON THEIR HKCEE RESULTS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID RESULTS WOULD BE DISPLAYED AT THE SAME CENTRES NEXT TUESDAY (AUGUST 24).
SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS SHOULD TAKE THEIR ALLOCATION SLIPS TO THEIR ('HOSEN SCHOOL FOR REGISTRATION BEFORE 3.30 PM ON THE SAME DAY, HE ADDED.
THE VACANCIES COMPRISE 107 TN THE ARTS, 18 TN THE SCIENCE AND 29 IN THE COMMERCIAL STREAMS (ENGLISH); 18 IN THE ARTS AND 11 AT THE SCIENCE STREAMS (CHINESE); 39 IN ENGINEERING AND 10 IN COMMERCIAL STREAMS (PREVOCATIONAL SCHOOLS).
------0--------
/4 ........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
GARMENT QUOTA BROKER FINED FOR ILLEGAL TRANSHIPMENT
*****
A QUOTA BROKER WAS FINED $2.4 MI I,LION AT THE WESTERN MAGISTRACY TODAY (TUESDAY) FOR ILLEGAL TRANSHIPMENT OF GARMENTS VALUED AT $83 MILLION.
GRITTO LTD PLEADED GUILTY TO 24 COUNTS RELATING TO EXPORTING 258,912 PIECES OF CHINA-MADE GARMENTS TO THE EEC AND THE U.S. IN THE GUISE OF PHILIPPINES ORIGIN. THE GOODS WERE VALUED AT $24 MILLION.
THE COURT ALSO TOOK INTO CONSIDERATION 59 ITEMS OF OUTSTANDING INFORMATION INVOLVING 399,012 PIECES OF GARMENTS WORTH $59 MILLION.
THE COURT HEARD THAT IN NOVEMBER 1991, THE CUSTOMS AND EXCISE DEPARTMENT LAUNCHED INVESTIGATION AFTER RECEIVING INTELLIGENCE FROM ITS COUNTERPARTS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND THE USA.
TWENTY-FOUR LOCAL GARMENT EXPORTERS WERE ALSO INVOLVED IN THE CASE. THEY APPROACHED THE DEFENDANT FOR ASSISTANCE WHEN THEY WERE UNABLE TO OBTAIN CHINESE QUOTAS TO RE-EXPORT THEIR CHINA-MADE GARMENTS FROM HONG KONG TO EUROPE AND THE USA.
THE HEAD OF CUSTOMS TRADING STANDARDS INVESTIGATION BUREAU, MR ANDREW WONG, SAID THE PROSECUTION OF 24 LOCAL GARMENT EXPORTERS HAD BEEN CONCLUDED.
THEY WERE FINED $6.15 MILLION FOR EXPORTING GARMENTS TO THE EEC AND THE USA WITHOUT VALID EXPORT LICENCES.
THE MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR ILLEGAL TRANSHIPMENT IS A FINE OF $500,000 PLUS TWO YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT ON EACH COUNT OF OFFENCE.
HE REMINDED GARMENT TRADERS THAT CUSTOMS OFFICERS WOULD STEP UP ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS TO TRACK DOWN ILLEGAL TEXTILE TRANSHIPMENTS TO PROTECT THE COMMERCIAL REPUTATION OF HONG KONG.
--------0-----------
MEETING ON CONTROL OF OBSCENE ARTICLES
*****
i THE TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY (TELA)
TODAY (TUESDAY) MET REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MEETING POINT TO DISCUSS THE OPERATION OF THE CONTROL OF OBSCENE AND INDECENT ARTICLES ORDINANCE.
THE MEETING POINT WAS PARTICULARLY CONCERNED ABOUT THE CONTROL OF COMIC BOOKS AND PORNOGRAPHIC PUBLICATIONS.
AT THE MEETING, TELA OFFICIALS TOLD THE REPRESENTATIVES THAT FROM JANUARY 1991 TO JUNE 1993, TELA HAD REFERRED 91 DUBIOUS COMIC BOOKS TO THE OBSCENE ARTICLES TRIBUNAL FOR CLASSIFICATION.
/PROSECUTION ACTION .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
5
PROSECUTION ACTION WAS SUBSEQUENTLY TAKEN ON 34 CASES. THE FINES IMPOSED RANGED FROM $800 TO $35,000.
VIGILANT ENFORCEMENT ACTION WAS ALSO TAKEN ON OTHER PORNOGRAPHIC ARTICLES UNDER THE ORDINANCE.
A SPOKESMAN FOR TELA SAID: ’’TELA WILL STRENGTHEN CO-OPERATION WITH THE POLICE IN THE ENFORCEMENT OF THE ORDINANCE.
’’NEWSPAPER STALL OPERATORS WILL BE ADVISED TO COMPLY WITH THE LEGISLATION AND, IN PARTICULAR, NOT TO SELL INDECENT COMIC BOOKS, WHICH SHOULD ALL CARRY A WARNING NOTICE, TO MINORS.”
’’PUBLIC EDUCATION WORK THROUGH THE SCREENING OF ANNOUNCEMENTS IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST ON TELEVISION AND THE DISTRIBUTION OF INFORMATION LEAFLETS TO SCHOOLS WILL ALSO BE CARRIED OUT TO PUBLICISE THAT INDECENT ARTICLES SHOULD NOT BE PUBLISHED TO MINORS," HE SAID.
-----0------
SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT VISITS MTRC
*****
SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, MR K Y YEUNG, TODAY (TUESDAY) TOOK A RIDE ON THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY (MTR) TO OBTAIN FIRST-HAND INFORMATION ABOUT THE NATHAN ROAD CORRIDOR CONGESTION PROBLEM DURING THE MORNING RUSH HOUR.
HE ARRIVED AT THE MONG KOK STATION AT 8.15 AM TO OBSERVE LONG QUEUES OF COMMUTERS GETTING ONTO TRAINS WITH PLATFORM ASSISTANTS IN ATTENDANCE.
MR YEUNG THEN BOARDED A CENTRAL-BOUND TRAIN FOR A RIDE TO MTRC’S HEADQUARTERS IN KOWLOON RAY VIA THE ISLAND LINE AND THE EASTERN HARBOUR CROSSING.
HE SPENT THE REST OF THE MORNING TN TOURING THE MTR DEPOT, CENTRAL CONTROL ROOM AND TRAINING CENTRE.
MR YEUNG WAS BRIEFED ON THE MTR OPERATIONS BY THE MTRC’S OPERATIONS DIRECTOR, MR BILL DONALD, AND HAD A USEFUL DISCUSSION WITH THE CORPORATION CHAIRMAN, MR HAMISH MATHERS.
HE WAS ACCOMPANIED ON THE VISIT BY THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT (TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENT), MR LEE LAP-SUN, AND ACTING DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT (TRANSPORT SERVICES), MR ISAAC Y N CHOW.
- - 0 - -
/6.........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
SFS VISITS CHINESE GOLD AND SILVER EXCHANGE SOCIETY *****
THE SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES, MR MICHAEL CARTLAND, VISITED THE CHINESE GOLD AND SILVER EXCHANGE SOCIETY TODAY (TUESDAY).
THIS WAS MR CARTLAND’S FIRST VISIT TO THE SOCIETY SINCE HE TOOK UP HIS PRESENT APPOINTMENT EARLIER IN THE YEAR.
HE WAS RECEIVED BY MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE AND SUPERVISORY COMMITTEES OF THE SOCIETY, INCLUDING PRESIDENT OF THE SOCIETY, MR ZEE KWOH-KUNG; VICE-PRESIDENT, MR RAYMOND CHAN; AND CHAIRMAN OF THE SUPERVISORY COMMITTEE, MR KWONG WAI-CHUNG.
A TOUR OF THE TRADING FLOOR WAS ARRANGED WHERE MR CARTLAND SAW THE PROCESS OF PREMIUM SETTING CARRIED OUT AT 11 AM EVERY DAY.
HE ALSO HAD A GENERAL DISCUSSION WITH COMMITTEE MEMBERS ON THE OPERATION OF THE SOCIETY AS WELL AS THE GOLD MARKET TN HONG KONG.
’’THE SOCIETY HAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF HONG KONG AS A LEADING GOLD MARKET IN THE WORLD WHICH IS CRUCIAL FOR OUR ROLE AS A MAJOR FINANCIAL CENTRE," MR (’ARTLAND SAID AFTER THE VISIT.
"I AM IMPRESSED BY THE SELF-DISCIPLINE IMPOSED BY THE EXCHANGE ON ITS MEMBERS AND MARKET-PRACTITIONERS WHICH I UNDERSTAND HAS COME FROM TRADITIONAL PRACTICE WHICH WENT BACK TO 83 YEARS AGO BUT IS STILL AS GOOD AS GOLD TODAY.
"I AM SURE THE SOCIETY WILL MAINTAIN ITS TRADITION AND CONTINUE WITH ITS GOOD WORK IN PROVIDING A REGULATED GOLD MARKET FOR INVESTORS IN HONG KONG,’’ HE SAID.
- - 0 - -
CUSTOMS SEIZE FALSELY DESCRIBED GARMENTS
*****
A MANUFACTURING FIRM AND ITS MANAGER WERE FINED $480,000 TODAY (TUESDAY) AT THE WAN CHAI DISTRICT COURT FOR APPLYING FALSE LABELS OF ORIGIN ON NYLON GARMENTS WORTH MORE THAN $1.2 MILLION.
GRACESANE GARMENT LTD AND ITS MANAGER LI KONG-TAI PLEADED GUILTY TO ONE COUNT EACH OF APPLYING FALSE TRADE DESCRIPTION ON WOVEN SKIWEAR, JACKETS AND PANTS.
ON JUNE 14 LAST YEAR CUSTOMS OFFICERS AT LOK MA CHAU CONTROL POINT EXAMINED AN INCOMING CONTAINER OF GARMENTS AND FOUND 10,980 CHINA-MADE SKTWEAR WHICH BORE FALSE LABELS OF ORIGIN - "MADE IN SINGAPORE".
/AFTER FURTHER
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
AFTER FURTHER INVESTIGATION, THEY CHECKED ANOTHER CONTAINER AT KWAI CHUNG CONTAINER TERMINAL.
A TOTAL OF 4,320 BOYS’ JACKETS AND 1,440 PAIRS OF MEN’S PANTS WHICH WERE MADE IN CHINA AND BORE THE SAME FALSE LABELS OF ORIGIN WERE FURTHER SEIZED.
THE COURT DECIDED TO CONFISCATE THE GARMENTS.
CAR MARK AUCTION FOR CHARITY *****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL PUT UP 50 LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS FOR AUCTION ON SATURDAY (AUGUST 21).
THEY ARE:
FG9388 FG8688 AL81 3 FF9668
FF9193 FH1 1 3 FH603 FG71 1
*FJ6868 ♦ FC1 5 *FP19 *9000
XX3303 FG129 CX2886 FF8638
FG886 AL782 FF8826 FG8158
FH162 FF8018 BB8893 CR423
FG6889 AJ338 FG2328 FG1 1 1 6
*CR83 *492 *FK18 *FP34
FF9293 FF8613 BB3129 FH1962
FG738 FG328 FG1800 FF776
FG2378 DD1312 *FP1122 FG7088
FG7662 DAI 132 FG8602 ♦FC2727
FF9965 FG1494
* SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK (NOT TRANSFERABLE)
THE AUCTION WILL BEGIN AT 9.30 AM AT THE LECTURE HALL, SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, FIFTH FLOOR, URBAN COUNCIL SHEUNG WAN COMPLEX, 345 QUEEN’S ROAD CENTRAL, HONG KONG.
SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS MUST PAY BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT REMINDED BIDDERS THAT THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK WOULD BE ASSIGNED ONLY TO A VEHICLE REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE AUCTION.
THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION MUST BE PRODUCED IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE AUCTION IF THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK IS TO BE REGISTERED UNDER THE NAME OF BODY CORPORATE.
PROCEEDS OF THE AUCTION, AFTER DEDUCTION OF EXPENSES, WILL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND.
THE COMING AUCTION WILL BE THE 200TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973.
- - 0----------
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
8
ANTI-POLLUTION PROSECUTION CASES RELEASED
*****
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY) RELEASED A LIST OF COMPANIES THAT HAVE BEEN FOUND GUILTY IN THE COURTS DURING JULY OF BREACHING ANTI-POLLUT[ON LEGISLATION CURRENTLY ENFORCED BY THE DEPARTMENT.
SIMILAR ANNOUNCEMENTS WILL BE MADE MONTHLY.
THE LEGAL PROCEEDINGS COULD BE VERY TIME-CONSUMING AND AS A RESULT THERE WAS SOMETIMES A LENGTHY TIME GAP BETWEEN THE DATE OF THE OFFENCE AND THE CONVICTION DATE.
FOLLOWING IS THE LIST OF PROSECUTION CASES AND THE ASSOCIATED FINES IMPOSED BY THE COURTS DURING JULY THIS YEAR:
NAME (COMPANY/ PERSON) ADDRESS DATE OF OFFENCE NATURE OF OFFENCE FINES($) RECORD OF OFFENCE COURT
1.CHIU YAT INDUSTRIAL LTD LOCKHART RD, CAUSEWAY BAY 23.3.92- 6.8.92 APCO : UNAUTHORISED INSTALLATION OR ALTERATION 1,500 1ST EASTERN
OF FURNACES
2.KINING LTD KWAI HEI ST, KWAI CHUNG 12.6.92- 1.9.92 APCO : ” 2,000 1ST TUEN MUN
3.HUNG FUK MUN (YUE CHIU) SEAFOOD RESTAURANT LTD HOI BUN RD, KWUN TONG 5.8.92- 18.11.92 APCO : ” 1,000 1ST KWUN TONG
4.ROCO LTD GLOUCESTER RD, CAUSEWAY BAY 13.9.92- 26.2.93 APCO : " 5,000 1ST EASTERN
5.LUEN HOP (SCORE HILL) DYEING FACTORY LTD PAT HEUNG, YUEN LONG 24.11.92 WPCO : 10,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN DEEP BAY WATER CONTROL ZONE 3RD FANLING
/6.KOKTABTIM .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
9
6.KOKTABTIM PHENSRI NAM KOK RD, KOWLOON CITY 26.11.92 NCO : 10,000 1ST SAN PO KONG
FAILURE TO
COMPLY WITH
THE REQUIRE-
MENT IN A
NOISE ABATE-
MENT NOTICE
7.INTERNATIONAL CURRY HOUSE (CAUSEWAY BAY) LTD CLEAR WATER BAY RD, 8.12.92- 18.12.92 APCO : 1,500 UNAUTHORISED INSTALLATION OR ALTERATION OF FURNACES 1ST EASTERN
8.SAMPAN THAI SEAFOOD MARKET COMPANY LTD PAK SHA WAN CENTRE, SAI KUNG 8.12.92 WPCO : 20,000 BEING THE OCCUPIER OF THE PREMISES FROM WHICH POLLUTING MATTER WAS DISCHARGED IN PORT SHELTER WATER CONTROL ZONE 1ST KWUN TONG
9.COLOR CORAL DEVELOPMENT LTD CHEONG HING BLDG, NATHAN RD 9.12.92 WPCO : " 30,000 1ST m
10.SUM TAT PILING AND ENGINEERING LTD NING YUEN ST, SAN PO KONG 9.12.92 NCO : 10,000 CARRY OUT PERCUSSIVE PILING NOT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF A PERMIT 1ST SAN PO KONG
11.LAM SIU LAN, TAO TAO RESTAURANT PAK SHA WAN, SAI KUNG 18.12.92 WPCO : 30,000 BEING THE OCCUPIER OF THE PREMISES FROM 1ST KWUN TONG
WHICH POLLUTING MATTER WAS DISCHARGED IN PORT SHELTER WATER CONTROL ZONE
/12.MA SHUN- .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
- 10 -
12.MA SHUN-YEE, DANNY POK FU LAM RD, POK FU LAM 22.12.92 NCO : 900 USE/CAUSE TO BE USED A PRODUCT DID NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT OF SECTION 17(1) 1ST WESTERN
13.NG KA-LOK CHOI HA RD, NGAU TAU KOK 8.1.93 NCO : " 2,000 1ST KWUN TONG
14.GEOWORKS CONTRACTORS (HK) LTD CHOI HA RD, NGAU TAU KOK 8.1.93 NCO : ” 2,000 1ST ii
15.SANFIELD BUILDING CONTRACTORS LTD HO TUNG LAU, FO TAN 13.1.93 NCO : 10,000 CARRY OUT CONSTRUCTION WORK NOT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF A PERMIT 1ST SHATIN
16.LISUN BLEACHING & DYEING CO LTD WAI YIP ST, KWUN TONG 14.1.93 APCO : 3,500 EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 1ST KWUN TONG
17.LERMOND INVESTMENT LTD ROCK HILL 8.2.93 ST, KENNEDY TOWN NCO : 9,000 USE/CAUSE TO BE USED A PRODUCT DID NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT OF SECTION 17(1) 1ST WESTERN
18.LEE CHUNG-KWONG ROCK HILL 8.2.93 ST, KENNEDY TOWN NCO : " 9,000 1ST fl
19.TELEHAR- VEST LTD SHIP ST, WAN CHAI 11.2.93 NCO : 5,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 1ST EASTERN
/20.WING HING .......
V.
♦ * • 1 - 11 - TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
20.WING HING LARD SHOP WING LAP ST, KWAI CHUNG 16.2.93 APCO : EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 7,500 1ST TSUEN WAN
21.DAIHATSU (HONG KONG) COMPANY LTD TIN HAU RD, TUEN MUN 17.2.93 WPCO : 10,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN NORTH WESTERN WATER CONTROL ZONE 1ST TUEN MUN
22.HONG KONG CONNECTOR COMPANY LTD SAN ON ST, TUEN MUN 17.2.93 WPCO : 15,000 2ND 11
23.COLLIERS JARDINE PROPERTIES LTD FA PENG RD, CHEUNG CHAU 18.2.93 1 WPCO : 100,000 DISCHARGED POLLUTING MATTER IN SOUTHERN WATER CONTROL ZONE 4TH WESTERN
24.WIDA CORDUROY FACTORY CASTLE PEAK RD, TSUEN WAN 24.2.93 APCO : EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 13,000 4TH TSUEN WAN
25.IP TAI-LAM MARBLE RD, NORTH POINT 2.3.93 NCO : FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 5,000 1ST EASTERN
26.PARIS WAN’S CO CASTLE PEAK RD, TSUEN WAN 4.3.93 APCO : EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 8,000 2ND TSUEN WAN
27.TSUEN WAN TREASURE RESTAURANT LTD YUEN TUN CIRCUIT, TSUEN WAN 10.3.93 NCO : FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 30,000 1ST
/28.CHOY TAK-
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
- 12 -
28.CHOY TAK- BAKER ST, 12.3.93 NCO : 10,000 1ST SAN PO KONG
KWUN HUNG HOM
29.HIEN LEE ENGINEERING CO LTD BAYVIEW 14.3.93 GARDEN, TSUEN WAN NCO : CARRY OUT CONSTRUCTION WORK WITHOUT A VALID PERMIT 5,000 1ST TSUEN WAN
30.LEE WAN-HUNG ” 14.3.93 NCO : PERMIT CONSTRUCTION WORK WITHOUT A VALID PERMIT 1,000 1ST it
31.WILSONIA DEVELOPMENT LTD TA CHUEN 16.3.93 PING ST, KWAI CHUNG APCO : EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 8,000 3RD TSUEN WAN
32.KAI TIN RESTAURANT & CO LTD KAI TIN 16.3.93 RD, LAM TIN APCO : 2,000 1ST KWUN TONG
33.CHENG LIN-SUN TSAT TSZ 18.3.93 MUI RD, NORTH POINT NCO : FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 3,000 1ST EASTERN a
34.GOTEBORG RESTAURANT LTD TUNG LO 24.3.93 WAN RD, CAUSEWAY BAY NCO : 3,000 1ST EASTERN
35.HONG KONG UNITED ANIMAL FAT FACTORY CO LTD ON NING 24.3.93 RD, YUEN LONG APCO : EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 7,000 2ND FANLING
36.SUNAM LTD QUEEN’S 26.3.93 RD CENTRAL, CENTRAL * NCO : 20,000 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 3RD WESTERN
/37.CHENG .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
- 13 -
37.CHENG YIU-HON KING’S RD, NORTH POINT 31.3.93 NCO : ” 3,000 1ST EASTERN
38.BOWIN INDUSTRIES LTD TAI YIP ST, KWUN TONG 1.4.93 APCO : EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 2,500 1ST KWUN TONG
39.TAI TUNG TEXTILES & DYERS LTD HUNG TO RD, KWUN TONG 1.4.93 APCO : ” 3,000 2ND
40.DAILY EARN LTD If 13.4.93 APCO : 4,000 2ND it
41.U-TEAM CO LTD CHAI WAN KOK ST, TSUEN WAN 15.4.93 APCO : ” 10,000 4TH TSUEN WAN
42.YUE TUNG RESTAURANT LTD YU WAN ESTATE, CHAI WAN 15.4.93 NCO : FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT IN A NOISE ABATEMENT NOTICE 5,000 1ST EASTERN
43.PARRY SOUND LTD CAINE RD, 20.4.93 NCO : 10,000 1ST WESTERN
44 .MCDONALD’: RESTAURANTS (HK) LTD S 21.4.93 SMITHFIELD, KENNEDY TOWN NCO : 10,000 2ND n
45.WONG HON-KONG KAM WA ST, SHAU KEI WAN 22.4.93 NCO : 5,000 1ST EASTERN
46.DAH CHONG HONG, LTD FORT ST, 22.4.93 NORTH POINT NCO : 30,000 3RD ti
47.RIFE PURSE LTD SOUTH WALL RD, KOWLOON CITY 22.4.93 APCO : EXCESSIVE DARK SMOKE EMISSION 3,000 i 1ST SAN PO KONG
48.WONDERFUL HONOUR LTD CHAT WAN KOK ST, 28.4.93 APCO : ” 18,000 4 TH TSUEN WAN
TSUEN WAN
/49.HIGHNESS .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
- 14 -
49.HIGHNESS RESTAURANT LTD TSEUK LUK 29.4.93 ST, SAN PO KONG APCO : 4,500 2ND SAN PO KONG
50.NEW DRAGON LAUNDRY CO BEDFORD 5.5.93 RD, TAI KOK TSUI APCO : 1,500 1ST SOUTH KOWLOON
51.LICK SANG KNITTING & DYEING FACTORY WANG LUNG 12.5.93 ST, TSUEN WAN APCO : 18,000 4TH TSUEN WAN
NOTE :
APCO : AIR POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE
NCO : NOISE CONTROL ORDINANCE
WPCO : WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE
NOTE TO EDITORS:
ENQUIRIES ON SPECIFIC CASES CAN BE DIRECTED TO THE FOLLOWING PRINCIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICERS:
APCO : MR FRANKLIN CHUNG TEL 594 6200
NCO : MR STEVEN HO TEL 594 6500
WPCO : CASE 8, 9, 11 MR R C ROOTHAM TEL 755 2200
CASE 5, 21 AND DR ELLEN CHAN TEL 417 6133
22
CASE 23 MR K K YUNG TEL 835 1056
HOWEVER, ENQUIRIES ON
GENERAL ISSUES SHOULD BE
DIRECTED TO
THE
DEPARTMENT’S MEDIA RELATIONS
SECTION.
- - 0 - -
/15.........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
- 15 -
MORE VIETNAMESE GO HOME
*****
A GROUP OF 223 VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS TODAY (TUESDAY) RETURNED TO VIETNAM UNDER THE UNHCR’S VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME.
COMPRISING 91 MEN, 57 WOMEN, 38 BOYS AND 37 GIRLS, THEY WERE THE 160TH BATCH TO GO BACK UNDER THE PROGRAMME.
THE GROUP BROUGHT TO 4,885 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS WHO HAVE RETURNED VOLUNTARILY THIS YEAR, AND TO 31,197 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF RETURNEES SINCE THE PROGRAMME STARTED IN MARCH 1989.
--------0------------
ENTRIES INVITED TO SWIMMING GALA
*****
ENTRIES ARE INVITED TO THIS YEAR’S SHA TIN DISTRICT SWIMMING COMPETITION WHICH WILL BE HELD ON SEPTEMBER 26 (SUNDAY) AT THE JOCKEY CLUB SWIMMING CLUB.
ORGANISED BY THE SHA TIN SPORTS ASSOCIATION, REGIONAL COUNCIL AND SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE, THE EVENT IS AIMED AT PROMOTING SPORT IN THE DISTRICT.
ENTRANTS MUST BE RESIDENTS OF SHA TIN, OR PEOPLE WORKING OR STUDYING IN THE DISTRICT. THERE WILL BE SEVEN RACES FOR MEN AND WOMEN OF DIFFERENT AGES.
A QUOTA OF 500 WILL BE SET. APPLICATIONS ARE FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED.
ENTRY FORMS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE SHA TIN DISTRICT OFFICE ON THE FIRST FLOOR OF KCR HOUSE, OR FROM THE SPORTS ASSOCIATION ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF SAU CHUEN HOUSE TN LEK YUEN ESTATE. THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS AUGUST 30.
ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON 691 5657.
------0-------
CLOSURE OF TWO ILLEGAL STRUCTURES SOUGHT
*****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE TWO UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES IN A BUILDING IN KWUN TONG SO THAT THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND THE PUBLIC.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE BUILDINGS DEPARTMENT SAID THE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES WERE APPENDAGES ON THE EXTERNAL WALL OF TWO DOMESTIC UNITS ON THE 15TH FLOOR OF 16-32 YEE ON STREET.
/NOTICES OF .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
16
NOTICES or INTENTION TO APPLY FOR CLOSURE ORDERS FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE ON SEPTEMBER 15 WERE POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY (TUESDAY).
THE SPOKESMAN SAID DEMOLITION OF THE WOULD START AS SOON AS THE CLOSURE ORDERS ARE UNAUTHORISED ! ISSUED.
HONG KONG o GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE TENDER RESULTS ***** FUND
TENDER DATE 17 AUG 93 17 AUG 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q333 H371
AMOUNT APPLIED HKD 3,950MN HKD 2,260MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HKD 1,OOOMN HKD 400MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 3.06 PCT 3.16 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 3.08 PCT 3.16 PCT
PRO RATA RATIO ABOUT 44 PCT ABOUT 100 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 3.09 PCT 3.21 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD TN THE WEEK BEGINNING 23 AUG 1993 -
TENDER DATE 24 AUG 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q334
ISSUE DATE 25 AUG 93
MATURITY DATE 24 NOV 93
TENOR 91 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HKD l,000+200MN
0 /17
STRUCTURES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 1993
- 17 - HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE MONE\ MARKET OPERATIONS ♦ * * * * OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT REVERSAL OF LAF BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF NET INJECT1ON/WITHDRAWAL TODAY EFFECT OF LAF TODAY CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.0 HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG FUND $ MILLION 1,880 + 120 2,000 NIL -960 1 ,040 *-0.1* 17 FUND GOVERNMENT .8.93 BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.19 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.375 101.18 3.68
1 MONTH 3.00 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.625 101.27 3.90
3 MONTHS 3.04 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 4.75 99.27 4.23
6 MONTHS 3.14 PCT 24 MONTHS 2508 12 MONTHS 3.48 PCT TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 15,334 MN CLOSED AUGUST 17, 1993 3.75 100.57 4.37
- - 0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
STATEMENT ON HAN DONGFANG .................................... 1
STATEMENT ON HUTCHVISION’S APPOINTMENTS ...................... 1
VEHICLE PARKING SITES BEING SOUGHT ............................ 1
BOARD TO REVIEW DRAFT OUTLINE ZONING PLAN ..................... 3
$105M DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT CONTRACT SIGNED .................... 3
PROPERTY TRANSACTION FIGURES FOR JULY ......................... 4
L , 290 APPLY FOR CENTRAL ALLOCATION OF FORM 6 PLACES ......... 7
SPECIAL MAIL DELIVERY ON AUGUST 28 ............................ 7
FRESH WATER CUT IN TAI PO ..................................... 7
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS.
8
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 1993
1
STATEMENT ON HAN DONGFANG
*****
IN A MEETING WITH NEW CHINA NEWS AGENCY OFFICIALS, THE ACTING POLITICAL ADVISER, MR JOHN ASHTON, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) EXPRESSED SERIOUS CONCERN AT THE EXPULSION EROM CH I NA INTO HONG KONG ON AUGUST 14 OF MR HAN DONGFANG.
MR ASHTON POINTED OUT THAT THIS ACTION WAS CONTRARY To INTERNATIONAL LAW, AND TO THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS.
HE CALLED ON THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT URGENTLY TO RECONSIDER ITS POSITION, AND TO ALLOW MR HAN TO RE-ENTER CHINA.
------0--------
STATEMENT ON HUTCHVISION’S APPOINTMENTS
* * * * »
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES ABOUT APPOINTMENTS AT HUTCHVISION LIMITED, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN TODAY (WEDNESDAY) SAID: ’’NEITHER THE GOVERNMENT NOR THE BROADCASTING AUTHORITY HAS ANY SPECIFIC COMMENTS TO MAKE ON THESE APPOINTMENTS.”
’’THEY HAVE NO REGULATORY 1MPLICATIONS.
’’HUTCHVISION HONG KONG LIMITED REMAINS THE LICENCE HOLDER AND IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ADHERENCE TO LICENCE CONDITIONS INCLUDING PROGRAMME STANDARDS.
"AS WE HAVE SAID BEFORE, HUTCHVISION HAS PROVED A RESPONSIBLE LICENSEE IN THE PAST AND WE CAN EXPECT THIS TO CONTINUE TO BE THE CASE. ’’
- - 0 - -
VEHICLE PARKING SITES BEING SOUGHT
*****
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT IS LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVE PARKING SITES FOR VEHICLES DISPLACED BY THE CLOSURE OF THE TWO TEMPORARY VEHICLE PARKS ON THE WESTERN RECLAMATION.
ONE OF THE PARKS WAS CLOSED ON AUGUST I. THE OTHER WILL BE CLOSED BY MID-SEPTEMBER. THE SITES ARE REQUIRED FOR THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING WORKS.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE TWO VEHICLE PARKS PROVIDED SOME 500 SPACES FOR PARKING OF GOODS VEH I (’LES.
/"IN VIEW .......
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 1993
2
” IN VIEW OF THE IMMINENT NEED, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, IN COOPERATION WITH THE LANDS DEPARTMENT AND OTHER PARTIES CONCERNED, HAS BEEN ACTIVELY REVIEWING THE PARKING DEMAND FOR GOODS VEH I ('LES AND LOOKING INTO THE FEASIBILITY OF MAKING AVAILABLE OTHER ALTERNATIVE SITES,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
"INITIAL EFFORTS HAVE BEEN EFFECTED ON THE PROVISION OF ON-STREET OVERNIGHT PARKING SPACES IN DES VOEUX ROAD WEST AND KENNEDY TOWN PRAYA IN WESTERN, AND HEUNG YIP ROAD IN SOUTHERN. SOME 90 SPACES ARE THUS PROVIDED.
"A FURTHER 110 ON-STREET OVERNIGHT PARKING SPACES WILL BE PROVIDED IN FUNG MAT STREET AND WESTERN PARK ROAD ON THE WESTERN WATERFRONT,” HE SAID.
A SITE IN SIU SAI WAN IS BEING PROCESSED BY THE LANDS DEPARTMENT WITH A VIEW TO LETTING OUT ON A TEMPORARY BASIS FOR GOODS VEHICLE PARKING. THE SITE IS ABOUT 5,000 SQUARE METRES AND CAN ACCOMMODATE MORE THAN 100 GOODS VEHICLES.
THERE ARE A FEW TEMPORARY ('AR PARKS IN QUARRY BAY WHERE PARKING OF ALL TYPES OF VEHICLES IS PERMITTED. THE TENANCY FOR THESE SITES WILL EXPIRE SOME TIME IN 1994, AND WILL BE RENEWED ON CONDITION THAT THESE SHALL BE USED SOLELY FOR GOODS VEHICLE PARKING.
IT IS ESTIMATED THAT THE CONVERSION TO GOODS VEHICLE PARKING WILL PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SPACES FOR MORE THAN 100 GOODS VEHICLES.
IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT SOME TEMPORARY SITES MAY BE AVAILABLE AT BELCHER BAY RECLAMATION PHASE I FROM AUGUST 1994 TO JANUARY 1997 AND WILL PROVIDE MORE THAN 200 SPACES FOR GOODS VEHICLE PARKING.
THE SITE AT TELEGRAPH BAY RECLAMATION IS NOW VACANT WITHOUT AN ACCESS ROAD. THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, TOGETHER WITH THE HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT AND OTHER CONCERNED PARTIES, IS NOW EXAMINING THE PROVISION OF AN ACCESS ROAD TO THE SITE FOR GOODS VEHICLE PARKING.
THE SPOKESMAN ASSURED GOODS VEHICLE DRIVERS THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS TRYING VERY HARD TO FIND ALTERNATIVE SITES FOR THEM. ANY AVAILABLE SITES WOULD BE OPEN FOR USE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
---------0-----------
/3.........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 1993
BOARD TO REVIEW DRAFT OUTLINE ZONING PLAN ♦ * ♦ t t
THE TOWN PLANNING BOARD WILL REVIEW THE DRAFT SAI YING PUN AND SHEUNG WAN OUTLINE ZONING PLAN TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF THE DEVELOPMENTS OF THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING AND THE WESTERN RECLAMATION AREA.
THE DRAFT PLAN, WHICH CONTAINS SEVERAL AMENDMENTS, WAS CONSIDERED AGAIN BY THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL LAST MONTH.
IN ANTICIPATION OF FURTHER CHANGES IN LAND USES ASSOCIATED WITH THE WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING AND THE WESTERN RECLAMATION AREA, THE COUNCIL REFERRED THE DRAFT PLAN BACK TO THE BOARD FOR FURTHER CONSIDERATION AND AMENDMENT.
"THE BOARD WILL AMEND THE DRAFT PLAN, WHICH, AFTER INCORPORATING THE LATEST AMENDMENTS, WILL BE EXHIBITED FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION IN DUE COURSE," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE BOARD SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
------0--------
$IO5M DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT CONTRACT SIGNED
♦ t * * ♦
THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT WILL SPEND $105 MILLION TN THE NEXT 29 MONTHS TO MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE THE DRAINAGE FACILITIES IN THE WESTERN AND NORTHERN PARTS OF THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE CONTRACT FOR THE WORKS WAS SIGNED THIS (WEDNESDAY) MORNING BETWEEN ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF DRAINAGE SERVICES (OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE), MR SIH NAM-SEN, AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE CONTRACTOR, WING FAI CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LIMITED.
THE WORKS INCLUDE THE MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT OF ALL EXISTING PUBLIC SEWERS, STORMWATER DRAINS, PUMPING STATIONS, FLOOD STORAGE PONDS AND SEWAGE TREATMENT FACILITIES, MR SIH SAID.
"THE CONTRACT ALSO INVOLVES THE CONSTRUCTION OF MINOR SEWERS, DRAINS AND DRAINAGE STRUCTURES AND PLANTS," HE ADDED.
ALL THE WORKS WILL BE CARRIED OUT IN YUEN LONG, TUEN MUN, TAI PO AND NORTH DISTRICT.
THE WORKS WILL BEGIN NEXT WEDNESDAY (AUGUST 25) FOR COMPLETION IN JANUARY 1996.
/4 ........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST IS, 1993
4 PROPERTY TRANSACTION FIGURES FOR JULY *****
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENTS OF BUILDING
UNITS, MAINLY FLATS, RECEIVED FOR REGISTRATION IN THE LANI) LAST MONTH INCREASED BY 47.4 PER CENT COMPARED WITH THE MONTH AND RY 49.9 PER CENT COMPARED WITH JULY LAST YEAR.
REGISTRY PREVIOUS
THE LARGE INCREASE WAS MAINLY DUE TO THE AGREEMENTS SUBMITTED FOR REGISTRATION IN RESPECT OF SEVERAL MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS IN MA ON SHAN, SHAM TSENG, TSING LUNG TAU AND FANLING IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
IN ALL, 18,881 AGREEMENTS FOR SALE AND PURCHASE OF BUILDING UNITS WERE RECEIVED FOR REGISTRATION DURING THE MONTH. THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF THE CONSIDERATIONS INVOLVED WAS $55.83 BILLION.
THESE FIGURES ARE INCLUDED IN THE MONTHLY STATISTICS ON PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS RECEIVED FOR REGISTRATION IN THE URBAN AND NEW TERRITORIES LAND REGISTRIES RELEASED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE LAND REGISTRAR.
A TABLE SHOWING THE RELEVANT STATISTICS FOR JUNE 1993 AND FOR JULY LAST YEAR IS ALSO RELEASED.
THERE WERE SEVEN BUILDING MORTGAGES AND 15,564 OTHER MORTGAGES RECEIVED FOR REGISTRATION IN THE MONTH, COMPARED WITH ONE AND 18,296 RESPECTIVELY IN JULY LAST YEAR..
THE TOTAL AMOUNT SECURED UNDER NEW BUILDING MORTGAGES IN THE MONTH WAS $0.38 BILLION COMPARED WITH $0.05 BILLION TN JULY LAST YEAR.
BECAUSE OF SEVERAL HUGE MORTGAGES SUBMITTED FOR REGISTRATION LAST MONTH, THE TOTAL AMOUNT SECURED UNDER NEW MORTGAGES OTHER THAN BUILDING MORTGAGES ROSE BY 131.9 PER CENT, FROM $7.29 BILLION IN JULY 1992 TO $16.91 BILLION IN JULY THIS YEAR.
REPAYMENTS UNDER MORTGAGES OF ALL KINDS, AS EVIDENCED BY DISCHARGES AND MORTGAGEE’S RECEIPTS, DECREASED RY 26.5 PER CENT, FROM $3.69 BILLION IN JULY LAST YEAR TO $2.71 BILLION IN JULY THIS YEAR.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
TABLES SHOWING THE CONSOLIDATED MONTHLY STATISTICS IN RESPECT OF DEEDS RECEIVED FOR REGISTRATION IN THE URBAN AND NEW TERRITORIES DISTRICT LAND REGISTRIES AND A COMPARISON OF MONTHLY STATISTICS WILL BE FAXED AND BOXED.
- - 0 - -
/THE LAND .......
THE LAND REGISTRY
Qusoiidated Monthly Statistics in respect of deeds received for registration in the Urban and New Territories District Land Registries
/THE LAND
tai th : July 1993
Item Nature of Deeds Number of Deeds received for registration Consideration ($)
Urban New Territories Total Urban New Territories Total
1. Agreements for Sale and Purchase of Building Units 10,760 ( 11,218 ) 8,121 ( 8,242 ) ( 18,881 19,460 ) 41,182,545,607.11 14,650,034,508.55 55,832,580,115.66
2. Agreements for Sale and Purchase of Land 47 355 402 12,373,805,322.00 1,677,370,815.26 14,051,176,137.26
Sub-total (1) + (2) 10,807 8,476 19,283 53,556,350,929.11 16,327,405,323.81 69,883,756,252.92
3. Assignments of Building Units 8,408 ( 8,685 ) 7,105 ( 7,287 ) ( 15,513 15,972 ) 26,800,996,582.95 9,626,682,805.34 36,427,679,388.29
4. Assignments of Land 42 621 663 12,585,813,200.00 1,217,316,397.89 13,803,129,597.89
Sub-total (3) ♦ (4) 8,450 7,726 16,176 39,386,809,782.95 10,843,999,203.23 50,230,808,986.18
5. Building Mortgages/Building legal Charges 6 1 7 304,500,000.00 80,000,000.00 384,500,000.00
6. Other Mortgages/Iega1 Cliarges 9,037 6,527 15,564 14,574,551,392.41 2,332,038,889.23 16,906,590,281.64
Sub-total (5) + (6) 9,043 6,528 15,571 14,879,051,392.41 2,412,038,889.23 17,291,090,281.64
7. Reoeipts/Discharges/Rel eases 6,658 3,823 10,481 2,060,339,249.08 651,244,201.82 2,711,583,450.90
8. i eases/Tenancy Agreements 407 151 558
9. ftcclusim Ordcis 2 0 2
10. Others 3,536 2,854 6,390
Tbtal 38,903 29,558 68,461 109,882,551,353.55 30,234,687,618.09 140,117,238,971.64
Note : Figures in brackets denote muter of units involved
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 1993
THE LAND REGISTRY Cotpparisoa of Moothlv Statistics
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 1993
- 7 -
1,290 APPLY FOR CENTRAL ALLOCATION OF FORM 6 PLACES ********
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID 1,290 STUDENTS HAD APPLIED FOR CENTRAL ALLOCATION OF THE REMAINING 232 SECONDARY 6 PLACES.
HE REMINDED APPLICANTS THAT RESULTS WOULD BE DISPLAYED NEXT TUESDAY (AUGUST 24) AT THE SAME CENTRE WHERE THEY APPLIED.
SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS SHOULD TAKE THEIR ALLOCATION SLIPS TO THEIR CHOSEN SCHOOL FOR REGISTRATION BEFORE 3.30 PM ON THE SAME DAY.
--------0-----------
SPECIAL MAIL DELIVERY ON AUGUST 28 *****
THE ACTING POSTMASTER GENERAL, MRS DORIS HO, ANNOUNCED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THAT A SPECIAL MAIL DELIVERY WOULD BE PROVIDED ON THE PUBLIC HOLIDAY ON AUGUST 28.
NO DELIVERY WOULD BE MADE ON AUGUST 29 AND 30.
ALL POST OFFICES WOULD BE CLOSED FROM AUGUST 28 TO 30.
--------0-----------
FRESH WATER CUT IN TAI PO *****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN TAI PO WILL GO OFF FROM 10 PM ON FRIDAY (AUGUST 20) TO 6 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATER MAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE PREMISES AT KAM SHAN ROAD, SHEK LIN ROAD, PAK SHING STREET, KAM SHAN TSUEN, KAM SHEK SAN TSUEN AND SHEK KWU LUNG.
/8........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18, 1993
8
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS * * * ♦ ♦
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,040
REVERSAL OF LAP +960
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -600
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,400
LAF RATE 2.00 B1D/4.00 OFFER TWJ 112.0 *+0.0* 18.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.21 PCT 15 MONTHS 24 1 1 4.375 101.18 3.68
1 MONTH 3.02 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.625 101.24 3.92
3 MONTHS 3.04 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 4.75 99.25 4.24
6 MONTHS 3.14 PCT 24 MONTHS 2508 3.75 100.56 4 . 38
12 MONTHS 3.47 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 10,463 MN
CLOSED 18 AUGUST 1993
- - 0 - -
Received by PRO
2 4 Ar 1993 on_________________
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GOVERNMENT CONTINUES DIALOGUE WITH CIVIL SERVANTS ............... ]
PROPOSAL TO SET UP LEGCO SELECT COMMITTEE ON CLP CASE ........... 2
ACTING GOVERNOR VISITS WASTE TREATMENT FACILITIES ............... 2
STATEMENT ON POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS INSTALLATIONS ................ 3
SYMPOSIUM ON TECHNOLOGIES TO REPLACE OZONE-DEPLETING CHEMICALS ..................................................... 4
STATISTICS ON TRADE INVOLVING OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA. FIRST QUARTER ................................................. 5
ORDERS-ON-HAND OF MANUFACTURERS IN JUNE ....................... 8
MARINE DEPARTMENT REVISES FEES AND CHARGES ..................... 9
WAR MEMORIAL PENSIONS ADVISORY COMMTTTEF REAPPOINTMENTS ........ 11
NEW STAMPS ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ........................... 12
COMMONWEALTH SCHOLARSHIPS AND FELLOWSHIPS CALL FOR APPLICATIONS ................................................. 13
POST OFFICE STOPS FAX SERVICE .................................. 14
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
1 4
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
GOVERNMENT CONTINUES DIALOGUE WITH CIVIL SERVANTS ♦ * * * *
THE ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO TALK TO THE DEPARTMENTS AND CIVIL SERVICE UNIONS AND WOULD TRY TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEMS RELATING TO LOCALISATION POLICY AMICABLY.
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER VISITING A CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT CENTRE ON TSING YI, SIR DAVID SAID THE GOVERNMENT RECOGNISED THAT THAT WAS A DIFFICULT PROBLEM THAT HAD TO BE DEALT WITH.
”IT’S A PROBLEM OF HUMAN RIGHTS WHICH WE HAVE HAD TO DEAL WITH. WE COULDN’T IGNORE IT. WE HAD TO TAKE ACTION,” HE SAID.
”1 HOPE THAT THE CIVIL SERVICE GENERALLY WILL FOLLOW THE TRADITION WHICH WE’VE HAD IN THE CIVIL SERVICE OF SITTING DOWN TO TALK ABOUT THE PROBLEMS.
"I DON’T THINK TAKING ANY FORM OF DRAMATIC ACTION WILL HELP CARRY US AS FURTHER FORWARD,” HE NOTED.
HE SAID THAT NO DOUBT DISCUSSIONS COULD BE HELD IN A RATIONAL AND COOL WAY.
ASKED IF THE CHINESE SIDE HAD SUGGESTED TO PUT THE ISSUE ON THE AGENDA OF THE NEXT JOINT LIAISON GROUP MEETING, SIR DAVID SAID THEY HAD NOT YET DISCUSSED THE AGENDA.
”IF THE CHINESE SIDE WISH TO PUT FORWARD THAT PROPOSAL, IT’S SOMETHING WE WOULD BE PREPARED TO CONSIDER,” HE SAID.
’’BUT AS WE MADE THE POINT BEFORE, THIS IS AN INTERIM ARRANGEMENT. IT DOESN’T HAVE ANY LONG-TERM IMPLICATIONS AFTER 1997.” HE ADDED.
”WHAT WE REALLY LIKE TO DISCUSS IN THE J LG ARE THE PERMANENT, LONG-TERM ARRANGEMENTS FOR PERMANENT RESIDENTS TN HONG KONG AND HOW THAT WILL APPLY TO THE CIVIL SERVICE.
’’THAT’S THE SUBJECT THAT WE WOULD VERY MUCH WELCOME DISCUSSIONS WITH THE CHINESE SIDE,” HE EXPLAINED.
SIR DAVID ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD VERY MUCH LIKE TO DISCUSS WITH THE CHINESE SIDE THE LONG-TERM ARRANGEMENTS THAI’ EXTENDED BEYOND 1997.
”WE NEED TO HAVE A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING WITH THE CHINESE SIDE AS TO WHO WILL BE A PERMANENT RESIDENT AFTER 1997, HOW THAT WILL BE SET ABOUT, AND ALSO THEN HOW WE CAN APPLY THAT TO THE CIVIL SERVICE SO THAT WE CAN MOVE TOWARDS A SITUATION IN WHICH WE HAVE COMMON TERMS OF SERVICE.
"THAT’S SOMETHING WHICH WE WOULD LIKE TO DO AND WE ARE ANXIOUS TO START THOSE DISCUSSIONS WITH THE CHINESE SIDE AS SOON AS WE POSSIBLY CAN,” HE SAID.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
2
PROPOSAL TO SET UP LEGCO SELECT COMMITTEE ON CLP CASE
*****
IN RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR JEREMY MATHEWS, SAID SINCE THERE WERE SEVERAL COURT CASES PENDING AT THE MOMENT, ALL CONCERNING THE CASTLE PEAK POWER STATION’S EXPLOSION IN AUGUST 1992, IT WOULD SEEM MORE APPROPRIATE FOR ANY PROPOSAL FOR THE SETTING UP OF A LEGCO SELECT COMMITTEE TO BE CONSIDERED ONCE THESE JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS ARE CONCLUDED.
--------0 -
ACTING GOVERNOR VISITS WASTE TREATMENT FACILITIES
*****
THE ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, THIS (THURSDAY) AFTERNOON VISITED SOME WASTE AND SEWAGE TREATMENT FACILITIES IN THE TERRITORY.
ACCOMPANIED BY THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, MR ROB LAW, AND THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS, MR TONY COOPER, SIR DAVID FIRST VISITED THE TSING YI CHEMICAL WASTE TREATMENT CENTRE (CWTC) WHICH WAS OFFICIALLY OPENED IN JUNE THIS YEAR.
SIR DAVID WAS BRIEFED BY MR WILLIAM GRUBE, THE GENERAL MANAGER OF ENVIROPACE, THE SPECIALIST CWTC CONTRACTOR, ON VARIOUS WASTE TREATMENT PROCESSES OF THE CENTRE.
HE TOURED THE CENTRE’S INCINERATION SYSTEM, PHYSICAL-CHEMICAL TREATMENT AREA, STABILISATION AREA, COMPUTERISED CONTROL ROOM AND LABORATORY.
EXPLAINING HONG KONG’S WASTE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY ON CHEMICAL WASTE, MR ROB LAW TOLD SIR DAVID THAT THE CWTC PROVIDED AN ESSENTIAL DISPOSAL FACILITY FOR THE ESTIMATED 100,000 TONNES OF CHEMICAL WASTES GENERATED TN THE TERRITORY EACH YEAR.
THE FACILITY ENABLED CHEMICAL WASTE PRODUCERS TO COMPLY WITH THE CHEMICAL WASTE REGULATIONS WHICH HAS BEEN FULLY IMPLEMENTED SINCE MAY THIS YEAR.
MR LAW SAID THE CWTC HAD BEEN STEADILY INCREASING THROUGHPUT SO THAT ITS WASTE COLLECTION AND TREATMENT WOULD BE AT FULL CAPACITY IN 1994, WELL AHEAD OF SCHEDULE.
MR LAW POINTED OUT THAT WHEN COMPARED WITH THE USUAL FOUR TO FIVE YEARS PERIODS TO ACHIEVE FULL PRODUCTION OF SIMILAR FACILITIES IN OTHER COUNTRIES, CWTC’S PERFORMANCE WAS VERY ENCOURAGING.
LATER, SIR DAVID INSPECTED THE OPERATIONS ON STONECUTTERS ISLAND OF THE NORTH WEST KOWLOON SEWAGE TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL SCHEME.
/ACCOMPANIED BY .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
3 -
ACCOMPANIED BY THE DIRECTOR OF DRAINAGE SERVICES, MR SIU CHUEN AND TWO ASSISTANT DIRECTORS, MR LEUNG CHAM-TIM (ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL) AND MR TSE HON-SUM (PROJECTS AND DEVELOPMENT), SIR DAVID TOURED THE SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT OF THE SCHEME TO SEE HOW SEWAGE WERE TREATED BEFORE DISPOSAL.
SIR DAVID LEARNED THAT THE OBJECTIVE OF THE $1.3 BILLION SCHEME WAS TO IMPROVE THE WATER QUALITY OFF THE COAST OF NORTH WEST KOWLOON BY COLLECTING SEWAGE FROM TAI KOK TSUI, SHAM SHUI PO AND LAI CHI KOK AREAS, INCLUDING THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION, AND PUMPING THE SEWAGE TO STONECUTTERS ISLAND FOR TREATMENT BEFORE DISPOSAL TO DEEP WATER TO THE SOUTHWEST OF THE ISLAND VIA A SUBMARINE OUTFALL.
THE ACTING GOVERNOR WAS TOLD THAT THIS OBJECTIVE HAD BEEN ACHIEVED AS THE WATER QUALITY OFF THE COAST OF NORTH WEST KOWLOON HAD BEEN GREATLY IMPROVED SINCE THE SCHEME CAME INTO FULL OPERATION LATE LAST YEAR.
APART FROM THE TREATMENT PLANT ON STONECUTTERS ISLAND, THE NORTH WEST KOWLOON SEWAGE TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL SCHEME ALSO COMPRISES NINE KILOMETRES OF INTERCEPTOR SEWERS, TWO COARSE SCREENING PLANTS (ONE AT SHAM SHUI PO AND ONE AT CHEUNG SHA WAN), ONE CENTRALISED PUMPING STATION AT CHEUNG SHA WAN, TWIN PUMPING MAINS OF TWO METRES IN DIAMETER ACROSS THE HARBOUR, AND A COASTAL SEWER AND SUBMARINE OUTFALL TO DISCHARGE THE TREATED EFFLUENT.
IT IS PLANNED THAT THE FLOWS FROM THE SCHEME WILL EVENTUALLY BE CONNECTED TO THE PROPOSED DEEP TUNNEL SYSTEM OF THE STRATEGIC SEWAGE DISPOSAL SCHEME FOR THE TERRITORY.
------0--------
STATEMENT ON POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS INSTALLATIONS »*'***
COMMENTING ON PRESS REPORTS ON THE MEETING OF THE ACTTNC SECRETARY FOR PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT AND LANDS MR CaI!cE mIS WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF THE TSING YI CONCERN GROUP YESTERDAYA GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) THERE WERE NEITHER ’any FIRM PLANS NOR ANY TIMETABLE AT THE MOMENT FOR MOvflc
POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS INSTALLATIONS TO THE SOKO ISLANDS ALTHOUGH THEY MIGHT BE AN APPROPRIATE SITE FOR THESE FACILITIES.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID APART FROM THE MOBIL, CONCORD OIL AND THF CHINA RESOURCES COMPANY’S NGA YING CHAU DEPOTS, THE GOVERNMENT HAD NO PLAN TO RELOCATE THE OTHER LPG OR OIL DEPOTS ON TSING YI
MR MAK ASSURED THE REPRESENTATIVES AT YESTERDAY’S MEETING ALL THESE INSTALLATIONS COMPLIED WITH THE GOVERNMENT’S RISK AND STRINGENT LICENSING REQUIREMENTS.
THAT
GUIDELINES
SAID.
’’THERE IS THEREFORE NO NEED TO RELOCATE THEM,” THE SPOKESMAN
’’NEVERTHELESS, THE GOVERNMENT WILL CONTINUE STRINGENT CONTROL OVER THE OPERATIONS OF THESE OIL SPOKESMAN ADDED.
TO EXERCISE
DEPOTS,” THE
- - 0 - -
/4 ........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
4
SYMPOSIUM ON TECHNOLOGIES TO REPLACE OZONE-DEPLETING CHEMICALS
*****
A SYMPOSIUM DRIVING HOME TO LOCAL MANUFACTURERS THE LATEST INFORMATION ON ALTERNATIVE TECHNIQUES TO REPLACE PROCESSES INVOLVING OZONE-DEPLETING CHEMICALS WILL BE HELD ON SEPTEMBER 22.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE OF THE ’’NON-OZONE-DEPLETING CHEMICALS SYMPOSIUM: CFC ALTERNATIVES AND SOLUTIONS” SAID: ’’FOLLOWING THE CONCLUSION OF THE MONTREAL PROTOCOL, ALL IMPORTS OF CHLOROFLUOROCARBONS (CFC) WILL BE BANNED IN HONG KONG BY JANUARY 1, 1996.”
"THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY, WHICH IS A HEAVY USER OF CFC IN THE CLEANING PROCESS OF PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD ASSEMBLY, HAS TO LOOK FOR ALTERNATIVES TO REPLACE PROCESSES INVOLVING OZONE-DEPLETING CHEMICALS,” HE ADDED.
THE SYMPOSIUM, TO BE HELD AT THE LECTURE THEATRE OF HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL (HKPC), IS JOINTLY ORGAINSED BY THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT, THE HKPC AND THE HONG KONG ELECTRONICS ASSOCIATION.
IT WILL COMPRISE TWO SESSIONS. IN THE MORNING SESSION, A REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT WILL TALK ABOUT THE MONTREAL PROTOCOL AND THE CFC PHASING-OUT PROGRAMME IN HONG KONG AND A SENIOR CONSULTANT FROM THE HKPC WILL GIVE AN OVERVIEW OF THE LATEST TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS.
MOREOVER, USERS OF NON-CFC CLEANING METHOD WILL SHARE THEIR EXPERIENCE WITH PARTICIPANTS.
IN THE AFTERNOON, SELECTED CHEMICALS AND EQUIPMENT SUPPLIERS WILL SPEAK ON THEIR TECHNOLOGIES AND DISPLAY PRODUCT INFORMATION ON SUBSTITUTION TECHNOLOGIES AND EQUIPMENT.
FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE SYMPOSIUM CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL BY PHONE ON 788 5756 OR 788 5757 OR BY FAX - 788 5770.
EXPLAINING THE MONTREAL PROTOCOL, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE PROTOCOL WAS CONCLUDED IN 1987 TO ESTABLISH A SCHEME TO PROVIDE THE NECESSARY PROTECTION TO THE OZONE LAYER.
”A PHASED PROGRAMME OF REDUCTION IN CONSUMPTION WAS AGREED FOR VARIOUS OZONE-DEPLETING SUBSTANCES, INCLUDING CFC, WHICH WILL BE COMPLETELY PHASED OUT BY JANUARY 1, 1996.
"THE PROTOCOL HAS BEEN RATIFIED BY OVER 80 SIGNATORIES, INCLUDING THE USA AND EEC MEMBER STATES, AND HONG KONG IS INCLUDED IN THE UK’S RATIFICATION OF THE PROTOCOL.
"TO GIVE EFFECT TO ITS OBLIGATIONS, HONG KONG HAS ENACTED THE OZONE LAYER PROTECTION ORDINANCE IN JUNE 1989,” HE SAID.
/5 ........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
- 5 -
STATISTICS ON TRADE INVOLVING OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA, FIRST QUARTER » » » » «
IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993, 47% OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA WERE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING; THE FIGURE WAS 73% FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS, AND 41% FOR RE-EXPORTS.
ON THE OTHER HAND, 71% OF HONG KONG’S IMPORTS FROM CHINA WERE RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, 77% OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN TO ALL COUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA WERE PRODUCED THROUGH OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA.
THE CORRESPONDING PROPORTIONS IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992 WERE 51% FOR TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA, 72% FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA, 45% FOR RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA, 72% FOR IMPORTS FROM CHINA AND 78% FOR REEXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN TO ALL COUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA.
THE DECREASE IN THE PROPORTION OF EXPORTS TO CHINA FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING AS RECORDED IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 REFLECTS THAT HONG KONG’S EXPORTS FOR MEETING DOMESTIC DEMAND TN CHINA, VIZ. EXPORTS TO CHINA NOT DESTINED FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING, INCREASED AT A FASTER PACE THAN OUTWARD PROCESSING TRADE DURING THE PERIOD.
THIS IS IN LINE WITH THE SUSTAINED INCREASE IN DOMESTIC DEMAND IN CHINA FOR IMPORTED GOODS.
TO PROVIDE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE NATURE AND IMPORTANCE OF OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA INITIATED BY HONG KONG FIRMS, THE DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN CONDUCTING A SAMPLE SURVEY AS FROM THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1988 TO DISTINGUISH HONG KONG’S EXPORTS TO CHINA INTO THOSE WHICH ARE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING AND THOSE WHICH ARE NOT.
THE SCOPE OF THE SURVEY HAS BEEN EXTENDED AS FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1989 SO AS TO SEGREGATE HONG KONG’S IMPORTS FROM CHINA INTO THOSE WHICH ARE RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING AND THOSE WHICH ARE NOT.
STARTING FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1991, THE SCOPE OF THE SURVEY HAS FURTHER BEEN EXTENDED SO AS TO SEGREGATE HONG KONG’S REEXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN TO ALL COUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA WHICH ARE PRODUCED THROUGH OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA AND THOSE WHICH ARE NOT.
THE RESULTS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 ARE NOW AVAILABLE.
IN VALUE TERMS, $33,672 MILLION OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 WERE FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 27% OVER THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1992.
THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING GREW BY 20% TO $9,861 MILLION AND BY 30% TO $23,811 MILLION RESPECTIVELY.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD OF COMPARISON, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS FROM CHINA RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING INCREASED BY 13% TO $58,587 MILLION.
/ON THE ........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
6
ON THE OTHER HAND, $70,645 MILLION OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN TO ALL COUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA WERE PRODUCED THROUGH OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA, REPRESENTING AN INCREASE OF 18%.
THE ESTIMATES FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 AND THE CORRESPONDING CHANGES OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992 ARE SUMMARISED IN
THE FOLLOWING TABLE: ESTIMATED VALUE AND PROPORTION OF TRADE INVOLVING IN CHINA, 1ST QUARTER OF 1993 OUTWARD PROCESSING
PERCENTAGE 1ST CHANGE QTR. OVER 1ST 1993 QTR. 1992 (HKD MN.) (%) TOTAL TRADE VALUE * : TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA 71,389 +36.6 DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA 13,422 +17.6 RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA 57,967 +41.9 IMPORTS FROM CHINA 82,339 +14.7 RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN 92,218 +19.5 TO ALL COUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA ESTIMATED VALUE INVOLVING OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA :
TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA 33,672 DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA 9,861 RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA 23,811 IMPORTS FROM CHINA 58,587 RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN 70,645 TO ALL COUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA ESTIMATED PROPORTION INVOLVING OUTWARD PROCESSING + 27.1 + 19.7 + 30.4 + 13.4 + 18.0 IN CHINA :
1ST QTR. 1993 (%) TOTAL EXPORTS TO CHINA 47.2 DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA 73.5 RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA 41.1 IMPORTS FROM CHINA 71.2 RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN 76.6 1ST QTR. 1992 (%) 50.7 72.2 44.7 72.0 77.6
TO ALL COUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA
* THE VALUE EXCLUDES COMMODITIES AND TRANSACTIONS NOT CLASSIFIED ACCORDING TO KIND.
/FOR THE.........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE SURVEY, EXPORTS (DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS) TO CHINA FOR OUTWARD PROCESSING REFER TO THE EXPORTATION OF RAW MATERIALS OR SEMI-MANUFACTURES FROM OR THROUGH HONG KONG TO CHINA FOR PROCESSING WITH A CONTRACTUAL ARRANGEMENT FOR SUBSEQUENT REIMPORTATION OF THE PROCESSED GOODS INTO HONG KONG.
IMPORTS FROM CHINA RELATED TO OUTWARD PROCESSING REFER TO THE IMPORTATION OF PROCESSED GOODS FROM CHINA OF WHICH ALL OR PART OF THEIR RAW MATERIALS OR SEMI-MANUFACTURES HAVE BEEN UNDER CONTRACTUAL ARRANGEMENT EXPORTED FROM OR THROUGH HONG KONG TO CHINA FOR PROCESSING.
RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN TO ALL COUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA PRODUCED THROUGH OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA REFER TO THOSE RE-EXPORTS OF WHICH ALL OR PART OF THEIR RAW MATERIALS OR SEMI-MANUFACTURES HAVE BEEN EXPORTED FROM OR THROUGH HONG KONG TO CHINA FOR PROCESSING WITH A CONTRACTUAL ARRANGEMENT FOR SUBSEQUENT RE-IMPORTATION OF THE PROCESSED GOODS INTO HONG KONG.
IN INTERPRETING THE STATISTICS, IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE VALUE AND PROPORTION OF IMPORTS FROM CHINA AND RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN TO ALL COUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA INVOLVING OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA REFER TO THOSE OF THE ENTIRE GOODS INSTEAD OF JUST THE VALUE ADDED CONTRIBUTED BY OUTWARD PROCESSING IN CHINA.
A SAMPLE OF TRADE DECLARATIONS IN RESPECT OF HONG KONG’S TRADE WITH CHINA (DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS TO (’HINA, AND IMPORTS FROM CHINA) AS WELL AS HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN TO ALL COUNTRIES OTHER THAN CHINA IS SELECTED FOR ENUMERATION TO OBTAIN THE REQUIRED INFORMATION FROM THE ESTABLISHMENTS CONCERNED.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT EXPLAINED THAT UNDER THE INTERNATIONALLY ACCEPTED SYSTEM OF RECORDING TRADE FLOWS, ALL MOVEMENTS OF GOODS ACROSS THE BORDER, FOR WHATEVER PURPOSE, ARE RECORDED AS EXTERNAL TRADE.
THUS THE MOVEMENTS OF GOODS ASSOCIATED WITH OUTWARD PROCESSING ARE CORRECTLY INCLUDED IN THE REGULAR TRADE STATISTICS.
’’THE FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY, HOWEVER, FACILITATE A MORE INFORMED ANALYSIS OF THE NATURE OF HONG KONG-CHINA TRADE. IN THIS RESPECT, THE SURVEY RESULTS ARE A USEFUL SUPPLEMENT TO THE REGULAR TRADE STATISTICS.”
THE ABOVE SURVEY RESULTS WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE JUNE 1993 ISSUE OF THE ’’HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE”.
THIS REPORT WILL BE ON SALE BY THE END OF AUGUST AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AND AT THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI AT <652 A COPY.
ENQUIRIES ON THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE TRADE SURVEYS AND RESEARCH SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 582 5037.
/8 ........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
- 8 -
ORDERS-ON-HAND OF MANUFACTURERS IN JUNE *****
THE VOLUME OF ORDERS-ON-HAND FOR THE 200 LARGEST MANUFACTURERS SHOWED LITTLE CHANGE IN JUNE THIS YEAR OVER A YEAR EARLIER, ACCORDING TO A MONTHLY SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE VOLUME IS MEASURED IN TERMS OF THE NUMBER OF MONTHS THAT MANUFACTURERS WILL REQUIRE TO COMPLETE THE ORDERS OUTSTANDING AS AT THE END OF THE REFERENCE MONTH.
COMPARED WITH THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR, ORDERS POSITION IN THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS AND THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES INCREASED MODERATELY BY 8% AND 5% RESPECTIVELY.
ON THE OTHER HAND, DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE TEXTILES INDUSTRY (5%), THE WEARING APPAREL INDUSTRY (2%) AND THE FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRY (2%).
COMPARED WITH THE PRECEDING MONTH, ORDERS FOR ALL THE MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED REMAINED VIRTUALLY UNCHANGED.
ORDERS POSITION IN THE FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS AND THE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS INDUSTRIES INCREASED SLIGHTLY BY 2% AND 1% RESPECTIVELY OVER THE PRECEDING MONTH.
ON THE OTHER HAND, ORDERS IN THE PLASTIC PRODUCTS AND THE TEXTILES INDUSTRIES DECREASED MODERATELY BY 7% AND 5% RESPECTIVELY. A SLIGHT DECREASE OF 1% WAS ALSO RECORDED IN THE WEARING APPAREL INDUSTRY.
THE MONTHLY SURVEY OF ORDERS-ON-HAND COVERS A PANEL OF THE 200 LARGEST MANUFACTURERS CHOSEN BY REFERENCE TO THEIR EMPLOYMENT SIZES IN SEPTEMBER 1986.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT POINTED OUT THAT AS THE SAMPLE COVERED ONLY THE LARGE COMPANIES, THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY NOT BE FULLY REPRESENTATIVE OF THE GENERAL SITUATION OF THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR.
NEVERTHELESS, THE SURVEY RESULTS SHOULD BE ABLE TO PROVIDE A USEFUL INDICATION OF THE DIRECTION OF CHANGE FOR MAKING A QUICK ASSESSMENT OF SHORT-TERM DEVELOPMENTS IN THE SECTOR, HE SAID.
THE SURVEY REPORT FOR JUNE 1993 AT $5.50 A COPY, IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AND AT THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS SECTION, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHA1 TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI .
ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE SURVEY RESULTS MAY BE MADE OF THE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION STATISTICS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 805 6441.
/THE FOLLOWING........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
9 -
THE FOLLOWING TABLE SHOWS THE PERCENTAGE CHANGES IN ORDERS-ON-HAND:
AS INDUSTRY AT THE END OF JUNE 1993 CHANGE WHEN COMPARED WITH
MAY 1993 JUNE 1992
(MONTHS) (%) (%)
ALL MANUFACTURERS SURVEYED 4.48 * *
— — — — —
WEARING APPAREL 4.69 -1 -2
TEXTILES 2. 14 -5 -5
PLASTIC PRODUCTS 3.85 -7 + 8
FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS 4.44 + 2 -2
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS 5.88 + 1 + 5
OTHERS 3.85 * -4
* CHANGES WITHIN +/- 0.5%
- - 0---------
MARINE DEPARTMENT REVISES FEES AND CHARGES
*****
A VARIETY OF FEES AND CHARGES OF THE MARINE DEPARTMENT WILL BE REVISED FROM NEXT MONDAY (AUGUST 23).
FEES AND CHARGES FOR PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREAS MANAGED BY THE DEPARTMENT WILL ALSO BE REVISED FROM NOVEMBER 4.
ANNOUNCING THE REVISION, THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR IAN DALE, SAID THE INCREASES STEMMED FROM A REGULAR ANNUAL REVIEW WHICH SOUGHT TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF INFLATION, AND AS FAR AS POSSIBLE RECOVERED THE COSTS OF THE SERVICES.
THE LAST FEE REVISION WAS MADE IN JULY LAST YEAR.
"THE MARINE DEPARTMENT HAS CONSULTED THE PORT OPERATIONS COMMITTEE, WHICH ADVISES THE DIRECTOR OF MARINE ON ALL MATTERS RELATING TO PORT OPERATIONS, AND VARIOUS OTHER ADVISORY COMMITTEES, TRADE ASSOCIATIONS, OPERATORS AND USERS OF THE PORT ABOUT THE PROPOSED REVISION OF FEES AND CHARGES," MR DALE SAID.
SOME 96 PER CENT OF THE FEE ITEMS WILL BE INCREASED BY 10 TO 30 PER CENT. THEY INCLUDE PORT DUES AND CONNECTED FEES, VESSEL LICENCES AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES.
"THE CLIENTELE OF THIS GROUP OF SERVICES ARE EASILY IDENTIFIED, AND GIVEN THE COMMERCIAL NATURE OF MANY OF THESE ACTIVITIES THERE IS NO REASON WHY THE COST OF PROVIDING THE SERVICES SHOULD NOT BE RECOVERED IN FULL," MR DALE SAID.
/PORT DUES .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
- 10 -
PORT DUES AND A VARIETY OF RELATED FEES ARE PAID BY VESSELS WHICH ENTER THE WATERS OF HONG KONG OR USE PORT FACILITIES.
THESE INCLUDE ANCHORAGE, BUOY, AND PORT AND LIGHT DUES, MISCELLANEOUS PERMIT AND CERTIFICATE FEES.
PORT DUES AND A NUMBER OF RELATED FEES WILL BE INCREASED BY ABOUT 10 PER CENT.
"EVEN WITH THIS FEE INCREASE, PORT DUES LEVIED BY THE MARINE DEPARTMENT ARE STILL COMPETITIVE IN RELATION TO THOSE CHARGED BY OTHER MAJOR PORTS IN THE REGION," HE SAID.
HE SAID THE MAJORITY OF THE VESSEL LICENCE AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES WOULD BE INCREASED BY 15 TO 30 PER CENT.
THESE FEES FALL INTO TWO MAIN CATEGORIES:
* VESSEL LICENCE FEES AND RELATED FEES (INCLUDING SURVEYS AND INSPECTIONS); AND
* FEES FOR OTHER SERVICES INCLUDING EXAMINATIONS, ISSUE OF CERTIFICATES, AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE MERCANTILE MARINE OFFICE.
THE PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREAS (PCWA’S) ARE FENCED-OFF AREAS OF WATERFRONT MANAGED BY THE MARINE DEPARTMENT FOR THE PUBLIC TO HANDLE CARGO TO AND FROM LIGHTERS AND RIVER TRADE VESSELS.
FEES FOR PCWA’S WILL BE INCREASED BY 45 PER CENT FROM NOVEMBER 4 THIS YEAR. THIS WILL BE ABOVE THE AVERAGE PERCENTAGE INCREASE FOR OTHER FEES AND CHARGES.
MR DALE SAID: "THIS IS NECESSARY TO PHASE IN FULL COST RECOVERY OVER A TWO-YEAR PERIOD FOR A SERVICE WHICH IS FULLY COMMERCIAL IN NATURE, COMPETES WITH SIMILAR PRIVATE SECTOR SERVICES, AND SHOULD NOT THEREFORE BE SUBSIDISED BY THE PUBLIC PURSE."
"EVEN WITH THIS YEAR’S INCREASE, THERE WILL STILL BE AN UNDER-RECOVERY OF ABOUT 20 PER CENT."
TWO MAIN CATEGORIES OF FEES FOR PCWA’S ARE LORRY-PARKING AND BERTHING. IN PRACTICAL TERMS, THE INCREASES WOULD BE, IN THE CASE OF A LORRY MAKING THREE TRIPS A DAY TO A PCWA, FROM $81 TO $117 PER DAY (THAT IS, $216 PER WEEK).
FOR A BARGE OF 1,000 TONS, THE DAILY BERTHING FEE WILL BE INCREASED FROM $250 TO $350.
MR DALE SAID DESPITE THE INCREASES IN FEES AND CHARGES THIS YEAR, THE MARINE DEPARTMENT HAD NOT YET REACHED FULL COST RECOVERY FOR ITS SERVICES, AND THERE WAS STILL A SMALL GAP WHICH WOULD CONTINUE TO BE NARROWED IN COMING YEARS.
DETAILS OF THE REVISION OF FEES AND CHARGES WILL BE GAZETTED TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
/Il ........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
- 11
WAR MEMORIAL PENSIONS ADVISORY COMMITTEE REAPPOINTMENTS
*****
THE GOVERNOR HAS REAPPOINTED MR ANDREW SO KWOK-WING AS CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG WAR MEMORIAL PENSIONS ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
ALSO REAPPOINTED ARE SIX INCUMBENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE: MR J O EDWARDS, MR J V G MITCHELL, MR CHEUNG WING-IN, MR J A FORTUNE, DR CHAN PING-CHEUNG, AND DR WONG HONG-HIN.
THE REAPPOINTMENTS ARE FOR A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR WITH EFFECT FROM SEPTEMBER 1.
THE COMMITTEE ADVISES THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE ON THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE HONG KONG WAR MEMORIAL PENSIONS ORDINANCE AND ON ALL APPLICATIONS FOR THE STATUS OF AN ELIGIBLE BENEFICIARY UNDER THE ORDINANCE.
DEPENDING ON THE PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES OF A SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT, A MONTHLY SINGLE ADULT PENSION OF $3,719 OR A MONTHLY MARRIED COUPLE PENSION OF $6,249 WILL BE AWARDED.
A SPECIAL NEEDS ALLOWANCE OF $900 WILL ALSO BE GIVEN TO ELIGIBLE WAR VETERANS WHO ARE OVER 60 YEARS OF AGE AND NOT IN BUSINESS OR EMPLOYMENT.
AS AT JULY 12, THERE WERE 712 BENEFICIARIES, OF WHICH 220 ARE LOCALS AND 492 ARE FROM OVERSEAS.
THE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR A PENSION IS SET OUT IN SECTION 7(2) OF THE HONG KONG WAR MEMORIAL PENSIONS ORDINANCE. THE MAIN CONDITIONS ARE:
* THE APPLICANT WAS A BENEFICIARY OF THE HONG KONG WAR MEMORIAL FUND OR THE FAR EASTERN RELIEF FUND;
* THE APPLICANT WAS A MEMBER OF A UNIT INCLUDED IN THE SCHEDULE TO THE ORDINANCE BETWEEN DECEMBER 7, 1941 AND DECEMBER 25, 1941 AND SUSTAINED AN INJURY;
* THE APPLICANT WAS A MEMBER OF A UNIT INCLUDED IN THE SCHEDULE TO THE ORDINANCE BETWEEN DECEMBER 7, 1941 AND DECEMBER 25, 1941 AND WAS CAPTURED BY THE JAPANESE AND HELD IN CAPTIVITY;
* THE APPLICANT IS THE WIDOW OR WIDOWER OF A PERSON KILLED IN ACTION OR EXECUTED BY THE JAPANESE AUTHORITY;
* THE APPLICANT WAS TORTURED BY THE JAPANESE AUTHORITY DURING THE JAPANESE OCCUPATION OF HONG KONG; AND
/* THE APPLICANT .........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
12
* THE APPLICANT IS A WIDOW OR WIDOWER OF AN ELIGIBLE BENEFICIARY OR A PERSON WHO WOULD HAVE QUALIFIED AS AN ELIGIBLE BENEFICIARY.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HONG KONG WAR MEMORIAL PENSIONS ADVISORY COMMITTEE, MR ANDREW SO, WILL MEET MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES AFTER 1 HE MEETING OF THE COMMITTEE TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT 4 PM IN THE PRESS ROOM OF THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES.
------0----------
NEW STAMPS ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY *****
THE ACTING POSTMASTER GENERAL, MRS DORIS HO, ANNOUNCES TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT A SET OF SPECIAL STAMPS WILL BE ISSUED ON SEPTEMBER 8 ON THE THEME OF "SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY".
THERE WILL BE FOUR DENOMINATIONS: 80 CENTS, $1.80, $2.30 AND $5 .
THE STAMPS FEATURE THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, THE HONG KONG SCIENCE MUSEUM, THE GOVERNOR'S AWARD FOR INDUSTRY AND THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY.
THEY WERE DESIGNED BY MR ARDE LAM AND PRINTED BY LEIGH-MARDON PTY LTD OF AUSTRALIA.
THE STAMPS WILL BE PUT UP FOR DISPLAY AT THE GENERAL POST OFFICE, TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICE AND SHATIN CENTRAL POST OFFICE FROM AUGUST 25.
OFFICIAL FIRST DAY COVERS WILL BE ON SALE AT ALL POST OFFICES, EXCEPT THE AIRPORT POST OFFICE, FROM AUGUST 25 AT $1 EACH.
ADVANCE ORDERS FOR SERVICED COVERS WILL BE ACCEPTED FROM AUGUST 25 TO SEPTEMBER 1. THE MINIMUM NUMBER OF COVERS PER ORDER IS FIVE.
EACH PERSON MAY BUY NOT MORE THAN TWO SHEETS OF STAMPS AT EACH DENOMINATION (100 SETS) ON THE FIRST DAY OF ISSUE.
FIRST DAY COVERS AFFIXED WITH A SET OF THE SPECIAL STAMPS AND CANCELLED WITH THE FIRST DAY OF ISSUE POSTMARK WILL BE AVAILABLE AT $12.90 AT THE FOLLOWING PHILATELIC OFFICES:
/GENERAL POST .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
- 13 -
GENERAL POST OFFICE
TSIM SHA TSUI POST OFFICE GRANVILLE ROAD POST OFFICE BEACONSFIELD HOUSE POST OFFICE SHATIN CENTRAL POST OFFICE PEAK POST OFFICE
A HAND-BACK SERVICE WILL BE GIVEN TO ALL OFFICIAL AND PRIVATELY MADE COVERS BEARING THE "FIRST DAY” INDICATION ON SEPTEMBER 8 AT ALL POST OFFICES EXCEPT THE AIRPORT POST OFFICE.
--------0-----------
COMMONWEALTH SCHOLARSHIPS AND FELLOWSHIPS CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
« * » * *
A NUMBER OF SCHOLARSHIPS WILL BE OFFERED UNDER THE COMMONWEALTH SCHOLARSHIP AND FELLOWSHIP PLAN BY THE GOVERNMENTS OF THE UNITED KINGDOM, NEW ZEALAND AND NIGERIA.
THE SCHOLARSHIPS ARE INTENDED FOR HONG KONG PERMANENT RESIDENTS OF HIGH INTELLECTUAL PROMISE WHO ARE EXPECTED TO MAKE A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY ON THEIR RETURN.
THEY ARE PRIMARILY AVAILABLE FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDY OR RESEARCH AT UNIVERSITIES OF THE COUNTRIES NORMALLY FOR TWO ACADEMIC YEARS STARTING FROM 1994/95.
THE AWARDS WILL COVER APPROVED EXPENSES FOR TRAVEL, LIVING AND STUDY DURING THE TENURE OF THE SCHOLARSHIP.
CANDIDATES SHOULD BE:
» PERMANENT RESIDENTS OF HONG KONG;
* NORMALLY NOT OLDER THAN 35 WHEN THE SCHOLARSHIP BEGINS. THE UNITED KINGDOM IS, HOWEVER, KEEN TO ENCOURAGE APPLICATIONS FROM OLDER CANDIDATES WHO CAN PROVE THEIR ABILITY FOR ADVANCED STUDY OR RESEARCH; AND
* GRADUATES OF RECOGNISED UNIVERSITIES WITH AT LEAST UPPER SECOND CLASS HONOURS DEGREES OR HOLDERS OF EQUIVALENT QUALIFICATIONS. CANDIDATES WHO ARE RECOMMENDED FOR THE AWARDS MUST SATISFY CERTAIN LANGUAGE, HEALTH AND IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS.
APPLICATION FORMS AND DETAILED INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AGENCY, NINTH FLOOR, NATIONAL MUTUAL CENTRE, 151 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG FROM TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
THEY CAN ALSO BE OBTAINED FROM THE CAREERS AND GUIDANCE SERVICES SECTION, EDUCATION DEPARTMENT IN ROOM 206, MONG KOK GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 30, LUEN WAN STREET, MONG KOK, KOWLOON AND AT THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICES COUNTERS IN ALL THE DISTRICT OFFICES.
/COMPLETED FORMS .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
14
COMPLETED FORMS AND SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS SHOULD BE RETURNED IN PERSON TO THE STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AGENCY NO LATER THAN THE END OF NEXT MONTH.
LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CALL 802 1636.
--------0------------
POST OFFICE STOPS FAX SERVICE *****
POSTFAX SERVICE PROVIDED AT SELECTED BRANCH POST OFFICES WILL CEASE FROM SEPTEMBER BECAUSE OF THE SIGNIFICANT DROP IN DEMAND OVER THE YEARS.
THE ACTING POSTMASTER GENERAL, MRS DORIS HO, ADVISED THE PUBLIC TO MAKE USE OF FAX SERVICES OPERATED BY LICENSED PRIVATE OPERATORS OR OTHER ALTERNATIVE TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES.
------0-----------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
REVERSAL OF LAF
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
1,400
+ 600
2,000
NIL
-845
1,155
TWT 112.0 »+0.0* 19.8.93
/HONG KONG .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 1993
15
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/ HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 3.06 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 101.25 3.62
1 MONTH 2.90 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.38 3.82
3 MONTHS 2.95 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 4.75 99.42 4. 14
6 MONTHS 3.06 PCT 24 MONTHS 2508 4.625 100.70 4.30
12 MONTHS 3.37 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 26,950MN
CLOSED 19 AUGUST 1993
- - 0-------
Received by PRO ^VG 199?
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY. AUGUST 20, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
CONTAINER THROUGHPUT SHOWS SUSTAINED GROWTH .................... 1
FUNDING SCHFMF FOR HK STUDENTS TN UK To DROP ................... 2
SPONSORS TO GOVERNOR'S AWARD FOR INDUSTRY ...................... 3
WHOLESALE FISH MARKET TN A KUNG NGAM ........................... 4
TENDERS FOR SLOPE STABILITY WORKS .............................. 4
TENDERS INVITED FOR 1ANDFT1I OPFRATTON ......................... 5
GURKHAS GIVE RO CHTIDRFN A TRE A I ............................. 5
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES SOUGHT ...................... 6
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
7
FRIDAY, AUGUST 20,
CONTAINER THROUGHPUT
SHOWS SUSTAINED GROWTH
* * t * *
THE AVERAGE OVERALL GROWTH RATE OE 18.2 PER CENT IN HONG KONG’S CONTAINER THROUGHPUT FOR JANUARY TO MAY THIS YEAR OVER THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR INDICATES SUSTAINED GROWTH AND AN UNDERLYING STRENGTH IN CONTAINER HANDLING ACTIVITIES, THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF MARINE, MR IAN DALE,SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
ANNOUNCING THE LATEST CONTAINER THROUGHPUT FIGURES, MR DALE SAID: "HONG KONG HANDLED 3,424,324 TEU’S (TWENTY-FOOT EQUIVALENT UNITS) DURING THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF THIS YEAR, COMPARED WITH 2,896,529 TEU’S HANDLED DURING THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
THE LARGE 1992 GROWTH RATE OF 29.4 PER CENT OVER THE PREVIOUS (1991) YEAR HAS NOT YET BEEN ACHIEVED THIS (1993) YEAR, BUT WHILE THE PERCENTAGE GROWTH FOR THE LAST THREE MONTHS (MARCH TO MAY) HAS FLATTENED OUT AT THE 18 TO 19 PER CENT LEVEL, IT SHOWS SIGNIFICANTLY STRONGER DEMAND THAN THE 2.6 PER CENT IN JANUARY AND 13.3 PER CENT IN FEBRUARY.
THROUGHPUT AT KWAI CHUNG TERMINALS FOR THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF THIS YEAR SHOWS AN INCREASE OF 13.4 PER CENT OVER THE SAME' PERIOD LAST YEAR. IT HAS BEEN INCREASING STEADILY SINCE JANUARY, INDICATING AN UNDERLYING STRENGTH IN DEMAND, HE SAID.
CONTAINER-HANDLING IN THE STREAM IS 19.1 PER CENT HIGHER THAN THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
MR DALE SAID GROWTH IN THE STEAM THROUGHPUT, LIKE KWAI CHUNG, HAD BEEN STEADY, WITH NO MAJOR FLUCTUATIONS.
RIVER TRADE THROUGHPUT, HOWEVER, WHILE CURRENTLY SHOWING AN 81 PER CENT INCREASE OVER THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR, HAS VARIED WILDLY OVER THE LAST FIVE MONTHS, HITTING A 226 PER CENT INCREASE IN MARCH, ALTHOUGH THIS IS PERHAPS UNDERSTANDABLE GIVEN THAT THE ACTUAL TEU THROUGHPUT OF ABOUT 210,000 FOR THE YEAR TO DATE (AS AGAINST MORE THAN TWO MILLION TEU’S AT KWAI CHUNG) ONLY NEEDS A SMALL VARIATION IN NUMBERS TO SHOW A LARGE CHANGE IN PERCENTAGES."
/THE FOLLOWING .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 20, 1993
2 -
THE FOLLOWING IS THE TABLE FOR THE COMPARATIVE CONTAINER STATISTICS IN TEU’S:
FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1992 FIRST FIVE MONTHS OF 1993 PERCENTAGE INCREASE
KWAI CHUNG CONTAINER TERMINALS 1,868,632 2,119,318 + 13.4%
STREAM AND ELSEWHERE 915,672 1,090,913 + 19.1%
RIVER TRADE 119,183 215,677 + 81.0%
TOTAL 2,896,529 3,424,324 + 18.2%
NOTE: TO AVOID DOUBLE COUNTING, FIGURES ARE ADJUSTED DOWNWARDS BY 6,958 IN 1992 AND 1,584 IN 1993 BEING TEU’S HANDLED BY TERMINAL VESSELS CONTRACTED TO WORK IN THE STREAM.
HONG KONG IS THE LARGEST CONTAINER PORT TN THE WORLD AND IS ALSO ONE OF THE BUSIEST PORTS IN TERMS OF VESSEL ARRIVALS AND CARGO AND PASSENGER THROUGHPUT.
--------0-----------
FUNDING SCHEME FOR HK STUDENTS IN UK TO DROP * t * ♦ *
THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT AND THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT HAVE JOINTLY DECIDED TO PHASE OUT THE JOINT FUNDING SCHEME FOR HONG KONG STUDENTS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM STARTING FROM 1994/95.
"STUDENTS ALREADY ON COURSES COVERED BY THE SCHEME WILL CONTINUE TO BE ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE UNTIL THEIR EXISTING DIPLOMA OR FIRST DEGREE COURSES HAVE BEEN COMPLETED," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION AND MANPOWER BRANCH SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
SET UP IN 1983, THE SCHEME PROVIDES FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO NEEDY HONG KONG STUDENTS PURSUING TERTIARY EDUCATION AT NATIONAL DIPLOMA AND FIRST DEGREE LEVEL IN THE UK.
"WITH THE EXPANSION OF TERTIARY EDUCATION IN HONG KONG, IT IS EXPECTED THAT SOME 24 PER CENT OF OUR YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE RELEVANT AGE GROUP WILL HAVE ACCESS TO FIRST-YEAR, FIRST-DEGREE AND SUB-DEGREE PLACES IN 1994/95,” THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT.
"THEREFORE, THERE IS NO STRONG REASON FOR SENDING HONG KONG STUDENTS TO STUDY OVERSEAS AT PUBLIC EXPENSE,” HE ADDED.
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/3.........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 20, 1993
3 -
SPONSORS TO GOVERNOR’S AWARD FOR INDUSTRY
*****
REPRESENTATIVES FROM 16 ORGANISATIONS TODAY (FRIDAY) PRESENTED CHEQUES TOTALLING $1.6 MILLION AS SPONSORSHIP FOR THE 1993 GOVERNOR’S AWARD FOR INDUSTRY.
THE CHEQUES, AMOUNTING TO $100,000 EACH, WERE RECEIVED BY THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF INDUSTRY, MISS DENISE YUE, WHO IS ALSO CHAIRMAN OF THE AWARD’S ORGANISING COMMITTEE, AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE OTHER FIVE ORGANISERS OF THE AWARD.
THEY WERE DEPUTY TO THE CHAIRMAN OF THE FEDERATION OF HONG KONG INDUSTRIES, MR MALCOLM MATTHEWS; PRESIDENT OF THE CHINESE MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG, MR HERBERT LIANG; CHAIRMAN OF HONG KONG PRODUCTIVITY COUNCIL, MR JAMES TIEN; EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT, MR JIM DALE AND DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE HONG KONG TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, MR FEDERICK LAM.
SPEAKING AT THE CHEQUE PRESENTATION CEREMONY, MISS YUE SAID THE OBJECTIVES OF THE GOVERNOR’S AWARD FOR INDUSTRY IN FACT POINTED TO THE WAY AHEAD FOR HONG KONG’S INDUSTRIES.
AT PRESENT, AWARDS WERE MADE IN SIX CATEGORIES, NAMELY, CONSUMER PRODUCT DESIGN, MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT DESIGN, PRODUCTIVITY, QUALITY, EXPORT MARKETING AND ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE.
"AS THE TITLES OF THE VARIOUS CATEGORIES SUGGEST, THE AWARD AIMS TO ENCOURAGE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND ORIGINALITY IN PRODUCT DESIGN, IMPROVED PRODUCTIVITY AND BETTER QUALITY IN MANUFACTURING PROCESSES, AND THE FORMULATION OF EXPORT MARKETING STRATEGIES, METHODS AND TECHNIQUES."
AT THE SAME TIME, IT ALSO PROMOTES AWARENESS OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AMONG HONG KONG MANUFACTURERS.
"WE BELIEVE THAT THROUGH IMPROVEMENT IN THESE AREAS, OUR INDUSTRIES WILL BE ABLE TO ENHANCE THEIR COMPETITIVENESS AND HENCE IMPROVE HONG KONG PRODUCTS’ ACCESS TO OVERSEAS MARKETS," MISS YUE SAID.
THE ASSESSMENT OF THE 124 ENTRIES FOR THE SIX CATEGORIES OF THIS YEAR’S GOVERNOR’S AWARD IS UNDERWAY. FINAL JUDGING IS EXPECTED TO TAKE PLACE IN SEPTEMBER AND THE AWARDS WILL BE PRESENTED BY THE GOVERNOR AT A CEREMONY SCHEDULED TO BE HELD IN DECEMBER.
MISS YUE PAID TRIBUTE TO THE 16 SPONSORS FOR THEIR GENEROUS DONATIONS AND KEEN SUPPORT FOR HONG KONG’S CONTINUING SEARCH FOR INDUSTRIAL EXCELLENCE.
THE SPONSORS ARE: A. FAI ENGINEERING AND SHIPREPAIRERS LTD; CHEKIANG FIRST BANK LTD; CHEN HSONG HOLDINGS LTD; CHEVALIER (HK) LIMITED; CHIAPHUA-SHTNKO COPPER ALLOY CO. LTD; THE CHINESE GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, HONG KONG; SULTAN VICWOOD CHONG, MBE; GOLD PEAK INDUSTRIES (HOLDINGS) LTD; HANG SENG BANK LTD; HONG KONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORATION LTD; LTPPO GROUP; REGATEX MANUFACTURERS, LTD; SHANGHAI COMMERCIAL BANK LTD; SINO GROUP; STANDARD CHARTERED BANK AND SUN HUNG KAI PROPERTIES LTD.
- - 0 - -
/4 ........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 20, 1993
4
WHOLESALE FISH MARKET IN A KUNG NGAM »«»»»»
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A WHOLESALE FISH MARKET IN A KUNG NGAM, SHAU KEI WAN.
THE MARKET WILL CONSIST MAINLY OF A TWO-STOREY ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING, A MARKET STRUCTURE, AND A SINGLE-STOREY ANCILLARY BLOCK.
THE WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO START IN OCTOBER FOR COMPLETION IN JULY 1994.
THEY FORM PART OF THE ALDRICH BAY TYPHOON SHELTER RECLAMATION PROJECT WHICH COMPRISES RECLAMATION WORKS AS WELL AS CONSTRUCTION OF SEAWALL AND STORMWATER DRAINAGE EXTENSIONS.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 34TH FLOOR, QUEENSWAY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, 66 QUEENSWAY, HONG KONG.
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF TENDERS IS NOON ON SEPTEMBER 10.
--------0 - -
TENDERS FOR SLOPE STABILITY WORKS
» t » * * * »
THE CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR UPGRADING OF SLOPES AND RETAINING WALLS SO AS TO IMPROVE THEIR STABILITY.
THE PREVENTIVE MEASURE INCLUDES INSTALLATION OF SOIL NAILS, CUTTING BACK OF SLOPES, ROCK SLOPE SUPPORT WORKS AND RECOMPACTION OF FILL SLOPES.
OTHER WORKS ARE CONSTRUCTION OF SKIN AND CAISSON WALLS, REPAIR AND PROVISION OF SURFACE DRAINAGE AND PROVISION OF PROTECTION TO FINISHED SLOPE SURFACES.
WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO START THIS OCTOBER AND WILL TAKE 24 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
TENDER OFFER WILL CLOSE AT NOON ON SEPTEMBER 10.
THE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT WILL UNDERTAKE THE DESIGN AND SUPERVISION OF THE WORKS.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING OFFICE, 1OTH FLOOR, CIVIL ENGINEERING BUILDING, 101 MARGARET ROAD, KOWLOON.
------0-------
/5......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 20, 1993
- 5 -
TENDERS INVITED FOR LANDFILL OPERATION
*****
THE CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS TO OPERATE THE SHUEN WAN LANDFILL, TAI PO AND TO INSTALL VARIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT MEASURES.
WORKS COMPRISE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A GAS EXTRACTION AND FLARING SYSTEM FOR THE NORTHERN PART OF THE SITE, A LEACHATE PRETREATMENT WORKS, ROADS AND DRAINS AND THE PLACING OF ABOUT THREE MILLION TONNES OF REFUSE, TOGETHER WITH OTHER MEASURES TO MITIGATE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON SURROUNDING AREAS.
LANDFILLING CONSISTS OF SPREADING AND COMPACTING REFUSE IN LAYERS AND THEN COVERING EACH LAYER DAILY WITH EARTH AS THE WORK PROCEEDS. THE FINAL LAYER OVER THE COMPLETED PORTIONS OF THE LANDFILL IS TO ELIMINATE ENVIRONMENTAL NUISANCE AND FIRE HAZARDS.
THE CONTRACT PERIOD IS 26 MONTHS AND THE WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START IN NOVEMBER THIS YEAR.
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING TENDERS IS NOON ON SEPTEMBER 24.
FORMS OF TENDER AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE CHIEF ENGINEER, SOLID WASTE DIVISION, CIVIL ENGINEERING OFFICE, CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT, FIRST FLOOR, CIVIL ENGINEERING BUILDING, 101 PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD, HO MAN TIN, KOWLOON.
---------0-----------
GURKHAS GIVE 80 CHILDREN A TREAT
******
THE 10TH GURKHA RIFLES WILL PLAY HOST TO 80 VISITORS FROM THE TSUNG TSING MISSION PAK HONG YOUTH CENTRE AND NORTH DISTRICT COMMUNITY CENTRE ON SUNDAY (AUGUST 22).
THE VISIT IS ONE OF A NUMBER OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS PROJECTS HOSTED BY THE GARRISON THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER AND GIVES VISITORS A FIRST-HAND OPPORTUNITY TO SEE THE VARIOUS UNITS AT WORK AND TO TAKE PART IN SOME ACTIVITIES.
A FULL PROGRAMME HAS BEEN ORGANISED AT GALLIPOLI LINES FOR THE GUESTS - AGED BETWEEN EIGHT AND 10. AT A NUMBER OF DISPLAY STANDS THEY WILL BE ABLE TO SEE AND HANDLE VARIOUS WEAPONS AND EQUIPMENT IN SERVICE WITH THE BATTALION, WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO TRY THEIR HAND AT SHOOTING.
/AFTER A .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 20, 1993
6
AFTER A TRADITIONAL GURKHA MEAL, AN BEEN ORGANISED FOR THE VISITORS.
AFTERNOON OF SPORTS HAS
NOTE TO EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THIS EVENT. THEY SHOULD ARRIVE AT THE GUARDROOM, GALLIPOLI LINES, BY 11 AM ON SUNDAY (AUGUST 22). A MEMBER OF JSPRS WILL BE ON HAND TO HELP.
GALLIPOLI LINES IS ON THE SHA TAU KOK ROAD, ABOUT TWO KILOMETRES NORTH OF FANLING.
- - 0----------
CLOSURE OF UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES SOUGHT
*****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY IS SEEKING TO CLOSE THREE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES IN CAUSEWAY BAY SO THAT THEY CAN BE DEMOLISHED WITHOUT CAUSING DANGER TO THE OCCUPIERS AND THE PUBLIC.
TWO OF THE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES ARE ON THE REAR LANE OF 85-89 PERCIVAL STREET WHILE THE OTHER IS ON THE REAR LANE OF 2 MATHESON STREET. ALL OF THEM ARE SINGLE-STOREY STRUCTURES USED FOR VARIED PURPOSES.
NOTICES OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR CLOSURE ORDERS FROM THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT UNDER THE BUILDINGS ORDINANCE ON SEPTEMBER 22 WERE POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY (FRIDAY).
IT IS EXPECTED THAT DEMOLITION OF THE UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES WILL START AS SOON AS THE CLOSURE ORDERS ARE ISSUED.
--------0 - -
/7........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 20, 1993
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS * * * * *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,155
REVERSAL OF LAF +845
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECT1ON/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -120
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,880
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TW [ 112.4 *+0.4* 20.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS TERM EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.61 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 101.40 3.48
1 MONTH 2.66 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.58 3.68
3 MONTHS 2.74 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 4.75 99.66 3.99
6 MONTHS 3.00 PCT 24 MONTHS 2508 4.625 100.91 4.19
12 MONTHS 3.26 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 30,714 MN
CLOSED 20 AUGUST 1993
- - 0 - -
f
Received by PRO
Him m2 <s <ug mi
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
PRESS STATEMENT ON MR HAN DONGFANG ..................... 1
CLEARANCE IN TO KWA WAN DEFERRED ....................... 1
CONTAINER PORT EMERGENCY CENTRE ACTIVATED .............. 3
GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO UPGRADING INDUSTRIAL QUALITY ... 4
MEETING IN GUANGZHOU ON ECVII'S ........................ 5
LUCKY CAR REGISTRATION MARKS SALE BY AUCTION ........... 5
LEVY RATE FOR PNEUMOCONIOSIS COMPENSATION FUND REVISED . 6
VARIETY SHOW FOR CENTRAL AND WESTERN RESIDENTS ......... 7
FIRING PRACTICE IN SEPTEMBER ........................... 8
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS .. 8
SUNDAY, AUGUST 22, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
GUESTHOUSES COME UNDER LICENSING CONTROL IN SEPTEMBER .. 9
EXHIBITION TO PROMOTE EMPLOYMENT OF DISABLED ........... 9
CLINIC SERVICE TO SUSPEND ON SATURDAY .................. 10
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 1993
PRESS STATEMENT ON MR HAN DONGFANG *****
IN ANSWER TO MEDIA INQUIRIES REGARDING CHINA’S ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT THE CANCELLATION OF MR HAN DONGFANG’S PASSPORT, A HONG KONG GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID:
"WE ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THIS DEVELOPMENT, WHICH MIGHT HAVE THE EFFECT OF RENDERING MR HAN STATELESS. THAT WOULD BE INCONSISTENT WITH THE GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF INTERNATIONAL LAW, FOR EXAMPLE AS SET OUT IN ARTICLE 15 OF THE UN I VERSEAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS. WE HAVE ONCE AGAIN URGED THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES TO ALLOW MR HAN TO ENTER CHINA. THE CHINESE ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT AFFECT THE DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION’S RECENT DECISION TO EXTEND MR HAN’S PERMISSION TO STAY IN HONG KONG FOR A FURTHER MONTH."
---------0 - -
CLEARANCE IN TO KWA WAN DEFERRED
*****
THE LAND AUTHORITY HAS DECIDED TO DEFER FOR SEVEN MONTHS THE CLEARANCE IN THE SIX STREETS IN TO KWA WAN RESUMED BY THE GOVERNMENT FOR AN URBAN RENEWAL PROJECT TO BE UNDERTAKEN BY THE HONG KONG MOUSING SOCIETY.
THE DEFERRAL WAS AIMED TO ALLOW MORE TIME FOR THE AUTHORITY TO CONSIDER THE REQUESTS FROM THE SHOP OWNERS AND OPERATORS CONCERNING COMPENSATION, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE LANDS DEPARTMENT SAID.
A MEETING HAS BEEN SCHEDULED FOR NEXT THURSDAY (AUGUST 26) FOR THE DIRECTOR OF LANDS, MR ROBERT POPE, TO DISCUSS WITH THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CLEAREES ABOUT THE DIFFICULTIES FACING THEM.
THE SITE IS BOUNDED BY MA TAU KOK ROAD, PAK TAI STREET, SAN SHAN ROAD AND PAU CHUNG STREET. IT INVOLVES 114 TENEMENT BUILDINGS AND FOUR SITES OF DANGEROUS BUILDINGS THAT HAVE ALREADY BEEN DEMOLISHED.
THE BUILDINGS INVOLVED WERE BUILT EITHER BEFORE OR SHORTLY AFTER THE SECOND WORLD WAR AND ARE IN POOR CONDITION.
WHEN COMPLETED, THE REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT, COMPRISING 824 FLATS IN SIX RESIDENTIAL TOWERS ABOVE A TWO-STOREY PODIUM, WILL GREATLY IMPROVE THE ENVIRONMENT OF THE AREA AND PROVIDE MUCH-NEEDED HOUSING.
IT WILL ALSO PROVIDE 1,800 SQUARE METRES OF PUBLIC OPEN SPACE AND A SHELTERED WORKSHOP FOR THE DISABLED.
THE RESUMPTION NOTICE WAS GAZETTED IN JULY LAST YEAR AND THE SITE REVERTED TO THE GOVERNMENT IN OCTOBER.
/THE SPOKESMAN .......
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 1993
- 2 -
THE SPOKESMAN SAID A TOTAL OF 3,500 DOMESTIC OCCUPIERS FROM 1,600 HOUSEHOLDS AND ABOUT 120 BUSINESSES WERE AFFECTED BY THE RESUMPTION.
"THEY ARE ELIGIBLE FOR STATUTORY COMPENSATION TN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CROWN LANDS RESUMPTION ORDINANCE AND EX-GRATIA ALLOWANCE UNDER THE CURRENT GOVERNMENT POLICY.
’’LEGAL OWNERS AND OCCUPIERS OF RESUMED PROPERTIES ARE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION FOR THEIR LOSSES, WHICH INCLUDE THE OPEN MARKET VALUE OF THE PROPERTIES; LOSS OR DAMAGE TO BUSINESS; REMOVAL EXPENSES AND PROFESSIONAL FEE FOR OBTAINING ADVICE IN CONNECTION WITH THEIR CLAIM.
’’THE ASSESSMENT OF OPEN MARKET VALUE OF PROPERTY IS BASED ON MARKET EVIDENCE AS ON THE DATE OF RESUMPTION AND THE EXISTING USE VALUE OF THE PROPERTY, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT ITS LOCATION, AGE AND CONDITION.
’’MOST OF THE OWNERS OF THE DOMESTIC UNITS HAVE ACCEPTED CASH COMPENSATION WHILE MORE THAN 80 PER CENT OF THE ELIGIBLE DOMESTIC OCCUPANTS HAVE ACCEPTED REHOUSING OFFERS.”
THE SPOKESMAN SAID CLEARANCE OF THE SITE WAS SCHEDULED TO TAKE PLACE AT THE END OF THE MONTH, BUT IN VIEW OF THE DIFFICULTIES BEING EXPERIENCED BY THE SHOP OWNERS AND OCCUPIERS, THE GOVERNMENT HAS DECIDED TO DEFER THE DATE UNTIL MARCH NEXT YEAR.
’’OWNER-OCCUPIERS OF COMMERCIAL PREMISES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR STATUTORY COMPENSATION FOR THEIR PREMISES PLUS BUSINESS LOSS AND REMOVAL ALLOWANCE, WHILE OCCUPIERS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE BUSINESS LOSS AND REMOVAL EXPENSES.
’’THEIR CLAIMS MAY INCLUDE LOSS OF BUSINESS GOODWILL AFTER RELOCATION, LOSS OF TEMPORARY PROFIT DURING RELOCATION, REDUNDANCY PAYMENTS TO EMPLOYEES, COST OF PHYSICAL REMOVAL AND COSTS OF SEARCHING FOR ALTERNATIVE PREMISES.
”AS SUCH LOSSES AND COSTS CANNOT BE ASSESSED UNTIL REMOVAL OR CESSATION OF THE BUSINESS HAS TAKEN PLACE, IT IS NOT POSSIBLE FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO ASSESS THESE CLAIMS NOW,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
”IT IS THEREFORE NOT POSSIBLE TO MAKE AN OFFER OF COMPENSATION PRIOR TO REMOVAL.”
”AS DIFFICULTIES FACED BY OCCUPIERS ARE RECOGNISED, THE GOVERNMENT HAS OFFERED AN EX-GRATIA REMOVAL ALLOWANCE TO FACILITATE REMOVAL.”
THE SPOKESMAN SAID IF AGREEMENT COULD NOT BE REACHED, CLAIMANTS ALSO HAVE THE RIGHT TO REFER CLAIMS TO THE LANDS TRIBUNAL FOR DETERMINATION.
/3........
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 1993
- 3 -
CONTAINER PORT EMERGENCY CENTRE ACTIVATED *****
IN ANTICIPATION OF A HEAVY INCREASE OF TRAFFIC AT THE CONTAINER PORT AREA FOLLOWING THE PARTIAL CLOSURE OF THE CONTAINER TERMINALS FOR THE LAST TWO DAYS, THE CONTAINER PORT EMERGENCY TRAFFIC CONTROL CENTRE WAS ACTIVATED AT 7.30 AM THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING.
THE CONTROL CENTRE WAS ESTABLISHED SUBSEQUENT TO THE SERIOUS TRAFFIC CONGESTION INCIDENT ON JUNE 28 THIS YEAR.
THE MAIN PURPOSE IS TO ENHANCE COMMUNICATION AMONG GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, CONTAINER TERMINAL OPERATIONS, CONTAINER DRIVERS AND THE CONTAINER OWNERS ASSOCIATION IN EXECUTING THE MOST APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC MEASURES TO RELIEVE TRAFFIC CONGESTION.
WITH THE FULL CO-OPERATION FROM ALL PARTIES CONCERNED, TRAFFIC CONGESTION HAS BEEN MANAGED EFFECTIVELY WITH THE SUPPORT OF SUBSTANTIAL POLICE MANPOWER ON SITE.
THE RESPONSIVE AND EFFICIENT OPERATIONS OF THE THREE CONTAINER TERMINALS TODAY HAD ALSO HELPED TO REDUCE THE IMPACT OF THE TRAFFIC PROBLEMS.
THIS IS COUPLED WITH VALUABLE ADVICE AND EFFORT FROM THE CONTAINER TRACTORS OWNERS ASSOCIATION AND THE CONTAINER TRANSPORTATION EMPLOYEES GENERAL UNION.
BETWEEN 10 AM AND 2 PM, NORTHBOUND TRAFFIC ALONG KWAI CHUNG ROAD WAS VERY CONGESTED PARTLY BECAUSE OF THE VERY HEAVY TRAFFIC VOLUME, BOTH FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND THE CONTAINER PORT, AS WELL AS THE LIMITED CAPACITY AT THE KWAI TSING INTERCHANGE.
MAJOR IMPROVEMENT WORK AT KWAI TSING AND TEXACO ROAD INTERCHANGES ARE IN PROGRESS AND ARE EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED BY EARLY AND MID-1991 RESPECT I VEI.Y .
BY THAT TIME, TRAFFIC ON THIS CORRIDOR BETWEEN TSUEN WAN AND KWAI TSING WILL BE MUCH SMOOTHER.
DURING THE PEAK TRAFFIC PERIOD AT 1 PM WHEN TRAFFIC CONGESTION EXTENDED TO TSING YI ISLAND, SPECIAL FERRY SERVICES WERE ARRANGED TO SERVE TSING YI RESIDENTS FROM TSING YI FERRY PIER TO TSIM SHA TSUI UNTIL 6.30 PM THIS EVENING.
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/4 ........
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 1993
4
GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO UPGRADING INDUSTRIAL QUALITY
*****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS SYSTEMATICALLY BUILT UP A COMPREHENSIVE TECHNICAL INFRASTRUCTURE TO PROVIDE SUPPORT TO HONG KONG BUSINESSES IN UPGRADING QUALITY SINCE THE EARLY 1980’S, THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MRS REGINA IP, SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
SPEAKING AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE FIFTH HONG KONG QUALITY CIRCLES CONVENTION, MRS IP SAID HONG KONG HAD TO KEEP MOVING '•'UP MARKET AND UPGRADING ITS QUALITY LEVEL IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN THE COMPETITIVENESS OF ITS MANUFACTURING AND SERVICE INDUSTRIES.
"THIS IS IN LINE WITH THE DEVELOPING NEEDS AND EXPECTATIONS OF OUR LOCAL AND OVERSEAS CUSTOMERS," SHE SAID.
I
THE STANDARDS AND CALIBRATION LABORATORY, THE HONG KONG LABORATORY ACCREDITATION SCHEME AND THE PRODUCT STANDARDS INFORMATION BUREAU OF THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT ARE EXAMPLES OF THIS COMMITMENT, SHE NOTED.
"ALL THESE SERVICES HAVE PLAYED A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN FACILITATING QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN HONG KONG," SHE SAID.
MRS IP SAID THE GOVERNMENT LAUNCHED A QUALITY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN IN 1990 AND AT THE SAME TIME SET UP THE HONG KONG QUALITY ASSURANCE AGENCY TO UNDERTAKE QUALITY MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATION ACTIVITIES.
"THESE INITIATIVES HAVE HAD A MAJOR IMPACT ON QUALITY AWARENESS IN OUR MANUFACTURING AND SERVICE SECTORS," SHE SAID.
"THROUGH THE QUALITY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN, WE HAVE BEEN PROMOTING THE APPLICATION OF ISO 9000 QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND THE CONCEPT OF A TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT APPROACH TO RUNNING BUSINESS OPERATIONS," SHE ADDED.
"TODAY, MANY COMPANIES HAVE BEEN AWARDED ISO 9000 CERTIFICATION, AND MANY OTHERS ARE MAKING EFFORTS TO OBTAIN SUCH CERT I FI CATION.
"WE ALSO SEE INCREASED INTEREST AND ACTIVITIES IN TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT," MRS IP SAID.
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/5........
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 1993
MEETING IN GUANGZHOU ON ECVII’S * * * * *
A HONG KONG GOVERNMENT DELEGATION LED BY THE ACTING POLITICAL ADVISER, MR JOHN ASHTON, WILL ATTEND A MEETING IN GUANGZHOU ON MONDAY (AUGUST 23) TO DISCUSS EX-CHINA VIETNAMESE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS (ECVIIS).
MR ASHTON WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, MR KEN WOODHOUSE; DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION, MR JOHN YEUNG; ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF IMMIGRATION, MR ALEX YEUNG; AND ASSISTANT POLITICAL ADVISER, MS ANNETTE LEE.
THE MEETING HAS BEEN ORGANISED BY THE CHINESE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AFFAIRS, WHICH WILL LEAD THE CHINESE SIDE. OFFICIALS FROM THE MINISTRY OF PUBLIC SECURITY AND FROM GUANGDONG AND NEIGHBOURING PROVINCES WILL ALSO BE PRESENT.
THE OBJECTIVES OF THE HONG KONG DELEGATION WILL BE TO SEEK AGREEMENT ON PRACTICAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR ENDING THE RECENT INFLUX OF ECVIIS TO HONG KONG, AND FOR RETURNING THOSE WHO HAVE ALREADY ARRIVED TO CHINA.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
MR ASHTON AND MR JOHN YEUNG WILL SPEAK TO THE MEDIA BEFORE BOARDING THEIR TRAIN AT HUNG HOM RAIL TERMINUS TOMORROW (SUNDAY) EVENING. MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES SHOULD ASSEMBLE OUTSIDE THE VIP ROOM AT 5.30 I'M.
- - 0 - -
LUCKY CAR REGISTRATION MARKS SALE BY AUCTION
*****
FIFTY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WERE PUT UP FOR AUCTION THIS (SATURDAY) MORNING FOR A TOTAL OF $2,381,000 WHICH WILL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND FOR CHARITY PURPOSES AFTER DEDUCTION OF EXPENSES INCURRED.
THE AUCTION, HELD AT THE LECTURE HALL OF THE SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, SAW THE REGISTRATION MARK 9000 FETCH THE HIGHEST PRICE OF $830,000.
ANOTHER REGISTRATION MARK FK18 WAS SOLD AT THE SECOND HIGHEST PRICE OF $210,000 WHILE THE LOWEST PRICE WAS $1,000 EACH FOR FG8602 AND FF9965.
/FOLLOWING ARE
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 1993
- 6 -
FOLLOWING ARK THE i RESULTS OF TODAY’S AUCTION
$ $ $ $
FG9388 16,000 FG8688 24,000 AL813 90,000 FF9668 10,000
FF9193 8,000 FH 1 I 3 36,000 FH603 12,000 FG711 12,000
♦FJ6868 36,000 *FC1 5 65,000 *FP19 60,000 *9000 830,000
XX3303 24,000 FG129 12,000 CX2886 30,000 FF8638 12,000
FG886 28,000 AL782 22,000 FF8826 14,000 FG8168 24,000
FH162 22,000 FF8018 12,000 BB8893 34,000 CR423 7,000
FG6889 8,000 AJ338 140,000 PG2328 32,000 FG1116 6,000
*CR83 50,000 *492 140,000 ♦ FK18 210,000 *FP34 38,000
FF9293 4,000 FF8613 12,000 BB3129 18,000 FH1962 2,000
FG738 12,000 FG328 150,000 FG1800 28,000 FF776 10,000
FG2378 9,000 DD1312 14,000 *FP1122 18,000 FG7088 6,000
FG7662 5,000 DAI 132 4,000 FG8602 1,000 »FC2727 22,000
FF9965 1,000 FG1494 WITHDRAWN
* SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK (NOT TRANSFERABLE)
SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS WERE REQUIRED TO PAY BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.
THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS AUCTIONED WILL BE ASSIGNED ONLY TO VEHICLES REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE DATE OF AUCTION.
TODAY’S SALE, THE 200TH ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973, BROUGHT THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF MONEY REALISED SO FAR TO $211,201,905.
THERE WAS NO BIDDER FOR FGI494. THIS VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WILL BE ASSIGNED TO THE ORIGINAL APPLICANT.
---------0-----------
LEVY RATE FOR PNEUMOCONIOSIS
COMPENSATION FUND REVISED
* * * * *
THE REVISED RATE OF LEVY ON THE VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION WORKS EXCEEDING $1 MILLION AND OF QUARRY PRODUCTS WILL TAKE EFFECT TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
LT IS TO ENABLE THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS COMPENSATION FUND BOARD TO MEET ITS LONG-TERM COMMITMENTS IN MAKING COMPENSATION PAYMENTS TO PNEUMOCONIOTICS UNDER THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) ORDINANCE (PCO).
A RESOLUTION TO INCREASE THE RATE OF LEVY FROM 0.02 PER CENT TO 0.3 PER CENT WAS PASSED BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL ON JULY 21 AND GAZETTED ON JULY 23.
’’THE REVISION IN THE RATE OF LEVY IS NECESSARY IN ORDER TO FINANCE AN IMPROVED COMPENSATION PACKAGE TO PROVIDE CONTINUED SUPPORT TO PNEUMOCONIOSIS SUFFERERS,” A LABOUR DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SATURDAY).
/FOLLOWING THE .......
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 1993
FOLLOWING THE PASSAGE OF THE PNEUMOCONIOSIS (COMPENSATION) (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE 1993, COMPENSATION PAYMENTS WILL BE PAID MONTHLY TO SUFFERERS OF PNEUMOCONIOSIS DIAGNOSED AFTER 1981 UNTIL HIS DEATH, HE SAID.
ANOTHER SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT IS TO ALLOW PNEUMOCONIOTICS WHO HAVE PREVIOUSLY RECEIVED A LUMP SUM COMPENSATION TO FURTHER RECEIVE MONTHLY PAYMENTS IF THEY SUFFER ADDITIONAL INCAPACITY.
THE SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT UNDER THE PCO, THE NEW LEVY RATE WILL NOT \ITLY TO ANY CONSTRUCTION WORKS FOR WHICH THE TENDER WAS SUBMITTED BEFORE AUGUST 22 THIS YEAR.
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VARIETY SHOW FOR CENTRAL AND WESTERN RESIDENTS
*****
THE MONTH-LONG SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME IN CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT WILL END WITH A VARIETY SHOW TOMORROW (SUNDAY).
THE SHOW WILL RUN FROM 2.30 PM TO 5 PM ON THE FORBES STREET PLAYGROUND IN KENNEDY TOWN.
HIGHLIGHTS WILL INCLUDE A TAEKWONDO DEMONSTRATION, AND SINGING, DANCING AND CHOIR PERFORMANCES.
THERE WILL ALSO BE NINE GAME STALLS WITH ADMISSION TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE VENUE.
OFFICIATING GUESTS AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY WILL INCLUDE ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, CENTRAL AND WESTERN, MR HOWARD LEE; DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER, MR LAM KIN-LAI AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PROGRAMME’S CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE, MR BILLY LAM.
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE INVITED TO COVER THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT’S SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMME CLOSING CEREMONY CUM VARIETY SHOW TO BE HELD AT 2.30 PM TOMORROW (SUNDAY) ON THE FORBES STREET PLAYGROUND IN KENNEDY TOWN.
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/8 ........
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 1993
- 8 -
FIRING PRACTICE IN SEPTEMBER
*****
FIRING PRACTICE WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE HA TSUEN - CASTLE PEAK RANGE ON 22 DAYS NEXT MONTH (SEPTEMBER).
THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED NOT TO ENTER THE AREA WHEN RED FLAGS ARE HOISTED.
FOLLOWING ARE THE DATES AND TIMES FOR THE FIRING PRACTICE:
DATE TIME
SEPTEMBER 1 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 2 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 3 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 6 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 7 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 8 (WEDNESDAY) 5 AM - 11.59 PM
SEPTEMBER 9 (THURSDAY) 5 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 10 (FRIDAY) 5 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 13 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 14 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 15 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 16 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 17 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 20 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 11 PM
SEPTEMBER 21 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 11 PM
SEPTEMBER 22 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 23 (THURSDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 24 (FRIDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 25 (SATURDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 27 (MONDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 28 (TUESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
SEPTEMBER 29 (WEDNESDAY) 8.30 AM - 5 PM
------0--------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
* * 4 t * * $ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,880
REVERSAL OF LAF NIL
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 1,880
NET 1NJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -320
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,560
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER
TWI 112.2 »-0.2» 21.8.93
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/9........
SUNDAY, AUGUST 22, 1993
9
GUESTHOUSES COME UNDER LICENSING CONTROL IN SEPTEMBER
*****
ALL TOURIST GUESTHOUSE OPERATORS WHO WISH TO OBTAIN A LICENCE TO CONTINUE THEIR BUSINESS MUST COMPLETE THE NECESSARY IMPROVEMENT WORKS BY THE END OF AUGUST, A SPOKESMAN FOR THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION (CNTA) SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
THE SPOKESMAN STRESSED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WAS DETERMINED TO HAVE THESE ACCOMMODATIONS UNDER LICENSING CONTROL BY SEPTEMBER 1.
NOTING THAT THE SAFETY OF LODGERS SHOULD BE THE MOST IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION, HE REITERATED THAT THERE WOULD NOT BE ANY FURTHER EXTENSION OF THE EXEMPTION PERIOD.
UNDER THE HOTEL AND GUESTHOUSE ACCOMMODATION ORDINANCE, ANYONE WHO OPERATES A GUESTHOUSE WITHOUT A LICENCE OR A VALID CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION COMMITS AN OFFENCE.
THE OFFENDERS ARE LIABLE ON CONVICTION TO A FINE OF $200,000 AND TWO-YEAR IMPRISONMENT AND TO A FURTHER FINE OF $20,000 FOR EACH DAY DURING WHICH THE OFFENCE CONTINUES.
THE ORDINANCE WAS ENACTED IN 1991 TO PROVIDE FOR A LICENSING SCHEME TO REGULATE THE FIRE AND BUILDING SAFETY OF HOTELS AND GUESTHOUSES.
OPERATORS WERE THEN GIVEN A TWO-YEAR EXEMPTION PERIOD, DURING WHICH OFFICERS FROM THE CNTA’S LICENSING AUTHORITY (LA) INSPECTED THEIR PREMISES AND ADVISED THEM IN WRITING ON THE NECESSARY IMPROVEMENT WORKS.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED THAT OPERATORS WHO WERE STILL ENCOUNTERING DIFFICULTIES IN CARRYING OUT IMPROVEMENTS WERE WELCOME TO CONTACT THE LA OFFICE WHOSE STAFF WOULD BE PLEASED TO ADVISE.
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EXHIBITION TO PROMOTE EMPLOYMENT OF DISABLED
*****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT WILL MOUNT A FIVE-DAY EXHIBITION TN SHAM SHUT PO TOMORROW (MONDAY) TO ENHANCE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE WORKING ABILITIES OF THE DISABLED.
"THE EXHIBITION, ORGANISED JOINTLY WITH SHAM SHUI PO DISTRICT BOARD’S INDUSTRIAL LIAISON COMMITTEE, FORMS PART OF THE DEPARTMENT’S CONTINUOUS EFFORTS TO PROMOTE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DISABLED," SENIOR LABOUR OFFICER (SELECTIVE PLACEMENT), MRS JENNIE CHOR, SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
/"IT WILL .......
SUNDAY, AUGUST 22, 1993
10
"IT WILL INTRODUCE THE DEPARTMENT’S FREE PLACEMENT SERVICE TO THE DISABLED AND FREE RECRUITMENT SERVICE TO EMPLOYERS, ITS PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND FUTURE PLANS.
"ALSO ON DISPLAY WILL BE PHOTOGRAPHS OF DISABLED EMPLOYEES ON DIFFERENT KINDS OF JOBS," SHE SAID.
LEAFLETS ON THE DEPARTMENT’S SELECTIVE PLACEMENT SERVICE WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR VISITORS AT THE VENUE.
MRS CHOR SAID THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME THAT THE DEPARTMENT CO-OPERATED WITH THE SHAM SHU I PO DISTRICT BOARD IN ORGANISING SUCH EXHIBITIONS.
"WE HOPE WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF DISTRICT BOARDS, THE GENERAL PUBLIC WILL KNOW MORE ABOUT THE ABILITIES OF DISABLED WORKERS AND EMPLOYERS WILL BE ENCOURAGED TO TAKE ON MORE DISABLED WORKERS," SHE SAID.
THE EXHIBITION, TO BE HELD ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF THE HONG ONG INDUSTRIAL CENTRE AT 489 - 491 CASTLE PEAK ROAD, CHEUNG SHA WAN, ILL BE OPEN FROM 2 PM TO 9 PM TOMORROW.
THE OPENING HOURS ARE 9 AM TO 9 PM FROM TUESDAY TO THURSDAY AND 9 AM TO NOON ON FRIDAY.
EMPLOYERS WHO WISH TO PROVIDE INFORMATION ON VACANCIES CAN CONTACT THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT DIVISION OF THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT EITHER BY TELEPHONE ON 852 4809 OR BY FAX TO 541 5290.
DISABLED JOB-SEEKERS WHO WISH TO SEEK PLACEMENT SERVICES CAN APPROACH THE DIVISION EITHER IN PERSON OR BY TELEPHONE ON 852 4809.
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CLINIC SERVICE TO SUSPEND ON SATURDAY * * * * *
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ANNOUNCED TODAY (SUNDAY) THAT GENERAL OUT-PATIENT CLINIC SERVICE WOULD BE SUSPENDED ON THE PUBLIC HOLIDAY ON AUGUST 28.
HOWEVER, EIGHT GENERAL OUT-PATIENT CLINICS WILL STAY OPEN ON AUGUST 30 (LIBERATION DAY AND THE LAST MONDAY IN AUGUST) WHICH IS ALSO A PUBLIC HOLIDAY.
THEY ARE THE VIOLET PEEL HEALTH CENTRE AND SHAU KEI WAN JOCKEY CLUB CLINIC ON HONG KONG ISLAND; THE KWUN TONG JOCKEY CLUB HEALTH CENTRE, ROBERT BLACK HEALTH CENTRE AND YAUMATET JOCKEY CLUB CLINIC IN KOWLOON; AND LADY TRENCH POLYCLINIC, SHEK WU HUI JOCKEY CLUB CLINIC AND YUEN LONG JOCKEY CLUB HEALTH CENTRE IN THE NEW TERRITORIES.
THE CLINICS WILL BE OPEN FROM 9 AM TO I PM. ALL OTHER GENERAL OUT-PATIENT AND EVENING CLINICS WILL BE CLOSED.
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Received by PRO n 2 5 AUG 19S3 on________________
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT IMPORTANT IN FUTURE : ACTING GOVERNOR ... 1
'ONE COUNTRY TWO SYSTEMS' CONCEPT WILL FLOURISH: ACTING
GOVERNOR ................................................ x
GOVT REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR ETHNIC MINORITIES ................. 2
CONSUMER PRICE INDICES FOR JULY .............................. 3
ROBERT PEIRCE TAKES UP POLITICAL ADVISER POST ................ 9
SEVEN CONSENTS GIVEN TO PRE-SALE OF UNCOMPLETED FLATS ........ 9
THREE NEW MEMBERS APPOINTED TO LAW REFORM COMMISSION H
S6 CENTRAL ALLOCATION RESULTS RELEASE TOMORROW ............... 12
COMPULSORY INSPECTION OF 1987 PRIVATE CARS ................... 33
WATER CUTS IN MONG KOK AND KOWLOON EAST ...................... 14
FLOATING HOLIDAY FOR EMPLOYEES .................................. 14
SEMINAR ON SAFETY IN SHIP-BUILDING AND SHIP-REPAIRING ........ 15
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ......................... , R
*•••••••••••••• JL kJ
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
16
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
1
FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT IMPORTANT IN FUTURE : ACTING GOVERNOR *****
IT IS PART OF THE CONFIDENCE OF HONG KONG PEOPLE TO CHOOSE THE FUTURE THAT THEY WILL BE ABLE TO LEAVE HONG KONG AND TO COME BACK, THF ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
SPEAKING TO REPORTERS AFTER OPENING AN INTERNATI ONAI CONGRESS ON ASIAN AND NORTH AFRICAN STUDIES, SIR DAVID SAID THE FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT FOR HONG KONG PEOPLE WAS VERY IMPORTANT IN THE FUTURE.
"IT’S SOMETHING WHICH IS ENSHRINED IN THE BASIC LAW, AND 15 SOMETHING THAT PEOPLE LOOK FORWARD TO.
’’AND IT’S ALSO INTEGRAL TO HONG KONG’S SUCCESS AS A COMMERCIAL AND FINANCIAL CENTRE’” HE ADDED.
SIR DAVID SAID ANY SUGGESTION THAT THAT WOULD NOT HAPPEN IN FUTURE WOULD OBVIOUSLY BE A GREAT WORRY TO PEOPLE IN HONG KONG.
”1 HOPE THAT THE GOVERNMENT OF CHINA HAS TAKEN NOTE OF THE EXPRESSIONS OF WORRY WHICH HAVE STARTED TO APPEAR IN THE MEDIA AS A RESULT OF THEIR DEALING WITH MR HAN (DONGFANG)’S CASE,” HE SAID.
"WE HAVE MAKE KNOWN OUR CONCERN TO THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT ON TWO OCCASIONS AND WE WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO AS THF OPPORTUNITY ARISES."
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’ONE COUNTRY TWO SYSTEMS’ CONCEPT WILL FLOURISH: ACTING GOVERNOR *****
CHINA, BRITAIN AND HONG KONG CITIZENS WILL STRIVE TO FLOURISH THE IMAGINATIVE CONCEPT OF ONE COUNTRY TWO SYSTEMS, THE ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
SIR DAVID SAID THERE WOULD BE UPS AND DOWNS IN HONG KONG’S RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA BETWEEN NOW AND 1997, BUT HE WAS QUICK TO ADD THAT THERE SHOULD BE NO REASONS TO DOUBT THAT THESE FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTS OF HONG KONG’S POS 1'1'I ON WOULD SURVIVE.
SIR DAVID WAS SPEAKING ON "HONG KONG: THE ENDURING CITY" AT THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE 34TH INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF ASIAN AND NORTH AFRICAN STUDIES.
"HONG KONG HAS MOVED FORWARD AND FLOURISHED BY COMING TO TERMS WITH THE CONSTRAINTS IMPOSED ON OUR POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
/"WE HAVE .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
- 2 -
"WE HAVE BEEN ABLE TO DEVELOP OUR ENVIABLE FREEDOM OF ACTION AS A GOVERNMENT AND A COMMUNITY, BY FOCUSING POSITIVELY ON THE STRENGTH OF OUR POSITION RATHER THAN SPENDING TOO MUCH TIME ON THE UNATTAINABLE.
"THIS IS NOT EXPEDIENCE; IT IS PRAGMATISM," SIR DAVID SAID.
HE SAID PRAGMATISM HAD NOT PREVENTED HONG KONG FROM PRESERVING INDIVIDUAL LIBERTY IN HONG KONG, OR FROM DEVELOPING CONSIDERABLE FREEDOM OF ACTION AS A GOVERNMENT.
"ABOVE ALL, IT HAS NOT PREVENTED US FROM STICKING TO THE MOS 1 IMPORTANT PRINCIPLE OF ALL, THAT THE INTERESTS OF THE PEOPLE OF HONG KONG COME FIRST," HE SAID.
SIR DAVID SAID HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY DICTATED THAT HONG KONG WAS DEPENDENT ON CHINA.
AT THE SIMPLEST’ LEVEL, THAT MEANS THE TERRITORY RELIES ON CHINA TO PROVIDE TWO-THIRDS OF WATER AND A THIRD OF ITS DAILY FOOD SUPPLIES.
AT A MORE ELEVATED LEVEL, IT MEANS THAT INDEPENDENCE HAS NEVER BEEN AN OPTION FOR HONG KONG.
"AND WE HAVE ACCEPTED THAT AS A FAIT OF I.I I E.
"THAT IN TURN HAS MEANT THAT WE COULD SURVIVE AND PROSPER ONLY IF WE ACTED IN A WAY THAT WAS NOT SEEN AS DETRIMENTAL OR THREATENING TO CHINA’S OVERRIDING NATIONAL INTERESTS," SIR DAVID SAID.
---------0----------
GOVT REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR ETHNIC MINORITIES *****
AT A MEETING WITH THE INDIAN RESOURCES GROUP TODAY (MONDAY), A GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL REAFFIRMED HONG KONG’S SUPPORT FOR THE ETHNIC MINORITIES CASE FOR FULL BRITISH CITIZENSHIP BUT STRESSED THAT THE BASIC LAW IN ANY CASE GAVE LIBERAL GUARANTEES FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCY HERE.
DR SIMON VI (’KERS, PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SECURITY, HIGHLIGHTED THE IMPROVEMENTS IN THE BASIC LAW OVER THE IMMIGRATION ORDINANCE.
HE POINTED OUT THAT NOT ONLY WERE THE FEW MINOR BRITISH PRIVILEGES IN THE LAW BEING REMOVED AS IN OTHER COLONIES, ALSO "THE BASIC LAW GIVES A BETTER SITUATION TO OTHER NATIONALITIES THAN AFTER INDEPENDENCE ELSEWHERE".
RIGHT OF ABODE FOR ANYBODY IS, ACCORDING TO ARTICLE 24, ESSENTIALLY BASED ON SEVEN YEARS’ STAY AND TAKING HONG KONG AS PLACE OF PERMANENT RESIDENCE, HE SAID.
/HE EXPLAINED .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
3
HE EXPLAINED THAT THE GOVERNMENT WERE INTENDING TO BRING
FORWARD THESE MORE STRAIGHTFORWARD PROVISIONS EVEN EARLIER THAN 1997.
"HOWEVER WE OBVIOUSLY NEED TO WORK OUT THE DETAILS OF ALIGNMENT WITH THE CHINESE SIDE."
DR VICKERS ALSO POINTED OUT THAT, IN ADDITION TO THE BRITISH NATIONALS (OVERSEAS) PASSPORT, WHICH SOME HONG KONG PEOPLE WISHED TO KEEP THROUGH 1997, AND THE BRITISH OVERSEAS CITIZENS PASSPORT WHICH WOULD BE AN EXTRA OPTION FOR THE ETHNIC MINORITY TO PREVENT STATELESSNESS, THE MAIN PASSPORT AFTER 1997 WOULD BE A HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION PASSPORT.
HF. SAID DETAILS WOULD NEED TO BE WORKED OUT WITH THE CHINESE SIDE IN THE NEXT YEAR OR TWO, SO THAT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ITS ISSUE BY THE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT COULD BE READY IN TIME FOR ’DAY ONE’ OF CHINESE SOVEREIGNTY.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THIS PASSPORT WOULD, UNDER THE JOINT DECLARATION, BE AVAILABLE TO ALL CHINESE CITIZENS OF HONG KONG, AND THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT HAS INDICATED THAT PEOPLE BELONGING TO ETHNIC MINORITIES COULD ALSO APPLY FOR CHINESE CITIZENSHIP.
- - 0 - -
CONSUMER PRICE INDICES FOR JULY *****
CONSUMER PRICE INFLATION RESUMED ITS MODERATING TREND IN JULY AFTER THE TEMPORARY REBOUND IN MAY AND JUNE.
THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) IN JULY WAS 8.2% HIGHER THAN IN THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR, ACCORDING TO FIGURES RELEASED TODAY (MONDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THIS WAS APPRECIABLY SLOWER THAN THE CORRESPONDING INCREASES OF 8.5% IN MAY AND 8.6% IN JUNE.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID IT WAS ENCOURAGING TO SEE CONSUMER PRICE INFLATION EASING BACK TN JULY.
"APART FROM THE SLOWER INCREASE IN FOOD PRICES, PARTICULARLY THOSE OF VEGETABLES AND SALT-WATER FISH, THE PRICES FOR TRANSPORT AND MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES CONTINUED TO RISE LESS RAPIDLY. THE RATES OF INCREASE IN THE PRICES OF OTHER COMPONENTS IN THE CPI ALSO TENDED TO STABILISE IN RECENT MONTHS," HE EXPLAINED.
"TAKING THE FIRST SEVEN MONTHS TOGETHER , THE YEAR-ON-YEAR INCREASE TN THE CPI (A) AVERAGED AT 8.5%. THIS IS ONE PERCENTAGE POINT BELOW THE FORECAST OF 9.5% FOR 1993 AS A WHOLE," HE ADDED.
THE CPI (B) AND THE HANG SENG CPI WERE HIGHER BY 8.5% AND 9.2% RESPECTIVELY IN JULY THAN IN THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR. THE CORRESPONDING INCREASES IN JUNE WERE 8.7% AND 9.5%.
THE COMPOSITE CPI, WHICH IS COMPILED BASED ON THE COMBINED EXPENDITURE PATTERN OF HOUSEHOLDS COVERED BY THE THREE CPIS, SHOWED AN INCREASE OF 8.6% IN JULY OVER THE SAME MONTH LAST YEAR, THIS WAS ALSO LOWER THAN THE CORRESPONDING INCREASE OF 8.8% IN JUNE.
/COMPARING JULY
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
COMPARING JULY 1993 WITH JULY 1992, RELATIVELY SLOWER INCREASES IN PRICES WERE RECORDED FOR DURABLE GOODS (2.0% IN BOTH CPI (A) AND CPI (B); FUEL AND LIGHT (3.6% IN BOTH CPIS); FOOD EXCLUDING MEALS AT RESTAURANTS (5.5% IN BOTH CPIS); MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES (7.3% IN THE CPI (A) AND 7.0% IN THE CPI (B)) ; MISCELLANEOUS GOODS (7.4% AND 6.7%); AND CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR (7.4% AND 8.0%).
ON THE OTHER HAND, RELATIVELY FASTER INCREASES IN PRICES WERE RECORDED FOR HOUSING (12.5% IN THE CPI (A) AND 13.2% IN THE CPI (B)); AND ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND TOBACCO (9.5% AND 8.7%).
AS FOR MEALS AT RESTAURANTS AND TRANSPORT, THEIR CORRESPONDING INCREASES WERE 8.5% AND 8.7% IN THE CPI (A) AND 8.4% AND 8.0% IN THE CPI (B).
COMPARING JULY 1993 WITH JUNE 1993, THE CPI (A) DECREASED BY 0.2% WHILE THE CPI (B) INCREASED BY 0.1%. HOWEVER, THIS COMPARISON COULD BE AFFECTED BY SEASONAL FACTORS.
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JULY 1993, THE CPI (A) WAS, ON AVERAGE, HIGHER BY 8.4% THAN IN THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JULY 1992. THE CORRESPONDING INCREASE FOR THE CPI (B) WAS 8.7%.
FOR THE PERIOD FROM JANUARY TO JULY 1993, THE CPI (A) AND CPI (B) WERE, ON AVERAGE, HIGHER BY 8.5% AND 8.9% RESPECTIVELY THAN IN THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD IN 1992.
FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDING JULY 1993, THE CPI (A) AND CPI (B) WERE, ON AVERAGE, HIGHER BY 8.8% AND 9.2% RESPECTIVELY THAN IN THE PRECEDING 12-MONTH PERIOD.
SEASONALLY ADJUSTED SERIES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR THE CPIS. THE DESEASONALISED CPI (A) AND CPI (B) BOTH INCREASED AT AN AVERAGE RATE OF 0.6% PER MONTH DURING THE THREE MONTHS ENDING JULY 1993.
THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX REPORT
MORE DETAILS ARE GIVEN IN THE "CONSUMER PRICE INDEX REPORT" FOR JULY 1993, WHICH IS AVAILABLE AT $12 A COPY FROM THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, GROUND FLOOR, CONNAUGHT PLACE, HONG KONG; OR FROM THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
FOR LOCAL AND OVERSEAS MAILINGS, CONTACT SHOULD BE MADE WITH THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG.
FOR ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE INDICES, PLEASE TELEPHONE THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON TEL 805 6403.
DETAILS REGARDING THE HAND SENG CPI ARE CONTAINED IN THE HANG SENG CPI REPORT ISSUED BY THE ECONOMIC RESEARCH DEPARTMENT OF HANG SENG BANK LTD.
/Table 1 .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
5
Table 1 Consumer Price Indices and Rates of Increase for Julv 1993
(Oct. 89 - Sep. 90 = 100)
CPHA) CPI(B) Hang Seng CPI Commsite CPI
Connopent Index for Jul % change over _Ji.il.21. index for .ml 91 % change over Jul. 92_ Index for Jul 93 % change over Jul 92 Index for Jul 93 % change over Jul 92
Food 133.2 +7.0 134.6 +7.1 134.5 +8.2 134.0 +7.3
Meals bought away frem lumn 141.2 +8.5 141.1 +8.4 139.0 +9.7 140.7 +8.7
Food. excluding meals bought away from hone 1'25.3 +5.5 .125.6 +5.5 126.9 +5.5 125.7 +5.5
Housing 148.2 +.12.5 149.7 +.13.2 150.6 +13.3 149.5 +13.0
Riel and light 120.6 +3.6 I'XI.O +3.6 120.0 +3.8 120.3 +3.7
Alcoholic drinks and tobacco 177.1 +9.5 167.4 +8.7 163.4 +8.6 J7J.8 +9.1
□othing and footwear 12/.0 +7.1 128.6 +8.0 135.1 +8.9 J 30.4 +8.2
Durable goods 109.1 +2.0 108.1 +2.0 113.7 +4.1 110.1 +2.6
Miscellaneous goods 121.7 +7.4 121.9 +6.7 120.9 +6.5 122.3 +6.9
Transport 136.5 +8.7 135.4 +8.0 135.8 +7.5 135.9 +8.1
Miscellaneous 138.9 +7.3 116.1 +7.0 130.7 +6.1 135.4 +6.9
services
AU items 115.8 +8.2 136.1 +8.5 136.9 +9.2 136.2 +8.6
The 1989/90-based consumer price indices are based on the expenditure patterns derived iron the IW9/9O Household Expenditure Survey. Ilie CPHA) is based on the expenditure pattern of about 50% nf urban households in Hong Kona, which had an average monthly expenditure of $2,500-89.999 in 1989/90. ihe CH(B) is based on the expenditure pattern of the next 30% of urban households, which had an average monthly expenditure of S10.000-S17.499 in the same period. Tbe Hana Seng CH is based on the expenditure pattern of the next 10% of urban households. which had an average monthly expenditure of S17.500-S37.499 in 1989/90.
Whereas the CPI (A). CPI(B) and Hana Sena CH are based on the expenditure patterns of groups of house! mlds with different magnitudes of household expenditure, the Composite CPI is (xnipiled based on the expenditure patten) of a.U these households taken together. Ilins, while the CPI (A). CPI(R) aixl 11am Sena CPI show the impact of consumer price changes on different groups of households, the Crmposite CH shows the impact of consumer price changes on the household sector general Iv.
/Table 2 .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
6
Table 2 Consumer Price Indices for January 1991 - July 1993 (Oct. 89 - Sep. 90 = 100)
Year/month CPI (A) CP r(B) Hana Sena CPI Composite CPI
199.1 Januarv J 08.3 108.4 108.6 108.4
Februarv UO. 3 110.1 110.2 110.2
March .1 1.1 . 9 111.1 110.7 1.11 .3
April 113.9 113.0 112.0 113.1
Mav .11 1.0 JJ3.6 113.4 113.7
June 114.6 114.1, 113.9 114.2
Ju J v J 1 5.4 1.1 4.8 .113.9 314.8
Auaust 116.0 115.3 114.6 115.4
September 116.8 .116.1 115.8 116.3
October 117.2 116.8 117.4 117.1
November 117.7 117.6 118.7 117.9
December 118.1 118.3 118.5 118.3
1992 Januarv 119.7 119.3 119.4 119.5
February 121 .8 121.2 121.0 121 .4
March 122.5 121 .9 121.8 122.J
Anri 1 124.0 123.4 122.9 123.5
Mav 124.0 .1 2 3.8 124.2 124.0
June 125. 1 125.1 125.2 125.2
Jul v 125.5 125.4 125.4 125.4
Auuust 125.6 125.9 125.8 125.8
September 128.3 127.9 127.5 128.0
October 128.1 128.4 128.6 128.5
November 128.5 ,129.0 129.9 .129.0
December 129.1 1 29.8 1 30.0 129.7
1993 Januarv 131.8 13.1 .6 J 31 .5 131 .7
Februarv 132.4 132.2 132.0 132.2
March 132.0 1 32.2 1 33.1 132.4
April 133.5 131.9 1 34.5 133.9
Mav 134.5 J 34.8 I 36.3 135.1
June 1 36.0 135.9 137.1 136.3
July 135.8 .1 16.1 136.9 ,136.2
/Chart 1 .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
7 -
Chart 1 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in CPI(A)
Chart 2 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in CPI(B)
/Chart 3 .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
8 -
Chart 3 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in Hang Seng CPI
Chart 4 Year-on-year Rates of Increase in Composite CPI
- - o - -
/9.........
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
- 9
ROBERT PEIRCE TAKES UP POLITICAL ADVISER POST
*****
MR ROBERT PEIRCE TODAY (MONDAY) TOOK UP HIS POST AS THE NEW POLITICAL ADVISER.
MR PEIRCE, 38, WHO IS MARRIED WITH TWO CHILDREN, IS NO STRANGER TO HONG KONG.
HE STUDIED CHINESE (PUTONGHUA) HERE IN THE LATE 1970S AND WAS DEPUTY POLITICAL ADVISER IN THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT FROM 1986 TO 1988.
HE SERVED AS SECOND AND LATER FIRST SECRETARY AT THE BRITISH EMBASSY IN PEKING FROM 1980 TO 1983, AND AS ASSISTANT PRIVATE SECRETARY TO THE FOREIGN SECRETARY FROM 1988 UNTIL HE TOOK UP HIS LAST POST, AS FIRST SECRETARY IN UNITED KINGDOM MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS IN NEW YORK, IN 1990.
--------0-----------
SEVEN CONSENTS GIVEN TO PRE-SALE OF UNCOMPLETED FLATS ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
THE LEGAL ADVISORY AND CONVEYANCING OFFICE OF THE LANDS DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) RELEASED DETAILS OF CONSENTS GIVEN IN THE SECOND QUARTER TO THE FORWARD SALE OF UNITS IN UNCOMPLETED DEVELOPMENTS.
SEVEN CONSENTS INVOLVING 400 UNITS ON THE HONG KONG ISLAND AND OVER 3,100 UNITS IN THE NEW TERRITORIES WERE GRANTED BETWEEN APRIL AND JUNE.
THE CONSENTS WERE GIVEN IN RESPECT OF APPLICATIONS UNDER THE LAND AUTHORITY’S CONSENT SCHEME CONTAINED IN LEASE CONDITIONS. THE SCHEME ALLOWS DEVELOPERS TO SELL FLATS BEFORE BUILDING WORKS ARE COMPLETED.
/LANDS DEPARTMENT .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
10
LANDS DEPARTMENT
LEGAL ADVISQRY b CONVEYANCING OFFICE
Details of Consent given by the Director of Lands to forward sales of flats/units
in uncompleted developments given in April - June .1993
District Lot No. & Address Name of Development Developer Pate of Consent Estimated Date of Completion of Development No. of Units (excluding Car parking Spaces)*
Hong Kong Inland Lot No. 7210 (Worth Point, Hong Kong) Healthy Village, Phases 14 II Hong Kong Housing Society 23.6.1993 30.9.1993* 99 400
Tsuen Wan Tsuen Wan Town Lot No. 323 (Yau Kan Tau, Tsuen Wan) Hanley Villa Hebo Limited 5.5.1993 26.8.1993 113 516
Tsuea Wan DD 387 Lot No. 212 (Tsing Lung Tau, Tsuen van) Sea Crest Villa Phase 2 Cheer long Limited 28.5.1993 15.3.1995 656 124
Sha Tin Sha Tin Town Lot No. 378 (Area 37A, Sha Tin) Lake View Garden Tasudi Investments Limited 8.4.93 31.5.94 418 121
NortE Pan ling Sheung Shui Town Lot No. 69 (Area 18, Lui Wo Market Fanling) Wing Eook Centre (residential) Winfoong Development Limited 3.6.1993 16.2.1994 258 1680
Worth - do - Wing Fook Centre (Nou-residential) - do - - do - - do - -do- 1 Kindergarten & shop units
Sai Kung Tseung Kwan 0 Town Lot No. 19 (Po Hong Road, Tseung Kwan 0) Finery Park Camleigh Investment Ltd., Millap Ltd. 3 hung King Development Co. 11.$.1993 30.6.1995 779 688 and (coouaeccial units)
Ltd.
Number of days between the date of consent and the estimated completion date of development.
* The nature (where available) of Don-residential units are shown in brackets.
---------0----------
/Il........
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
- 11
THREE NEW MEMBERS APPOINTED TO LAW REFORM COMMISSION
*****
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, MR JEREMY MATHEWS, TODAY (MONDAY) ANNOUNCED THE APPOINTMENT OF THREE NEW MEMBERS TO THE COMMISSION: MR JUSTE IN WONG, MR GACF MCAFEE AND PROFESSOR YASH GHA1.
THEY ARE ALL APPOINTED FOR A TERM OP THREE YEARS.
MR WONG IS KNOWN IN HONG KONG FOR HIS PUBLIC SERVICE. CURRENTLY, HE IS A SHA TIN DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER, A MEMBER OF THE FIGHT CRIME COMMITTEE AND THE POLICE COMPLAINTS COMMITTEE, AND VICE-CHAIRMAN OF THE CONSUMER COUNCIL.
MR GAGE MCAFEE IS AN AMERICAN LAWYER WHO HAS LIVED AND WORKED IN HONG KONG FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS.
HE WAS AN ADVISER TO THE HONG KONG BASIC LAW CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE, A FORMER CHAIRMAN OF THE AMER I (’AN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND HAS SERVED ON THE HONG KONG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AS WELL AS A NUMBER OF CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS.
PROFESSOR YASH GHAT OF THE FACULTY OF LAW, AT HONG KONG UNIVERSITY BRINGS TO THE COMMISSION A DISTINGUISHED ACADEMIC RECORD.
MR MATHEWS WELCOMED THEIR APPOINTMENTS AND SAID THEIR BREADTH OF EXPERIENCE AND VARIED BACKGROUNDS WOULD BE A VALUED \DDIT1ON TO THE COMMISSION.
MR MATHEWS ALSO ANNOUNCED THE RE-APPOINTMENT OF MRS MIRIAM LAU FOR A SECOND THREE-YEAR TERM.
MR MATHEWS SAID HE WAS PLEASED THAT MRS LAU HAI) ACCEPTED ANOTHER TERM, SAYING THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT TO THE COMMISSION FOR THERE TO BE CONTINUITY OF MEMBERSHIP.
MR WONG, MR MCAFEE AND PROFESSOR GHAI REPLACE MS CHRISTINE LOH, MR GRAHAM CHENG AND JUDGE TED TYLER WHO ARE RETIRING FROM THE COMMISSION.
MS LOH AND MR CHENG HAVE SERVED ON THE COMMISSION FOR NINE YEARS - THE LONGEST PERIOD OF SERVICE OF ANY MEMBER. JUDGE TYLER HAS BEEN A MEMBER FOR SIX YEARS.
MR MATHEWS EXPRESSED HIS APPRECIATION OF THE DEDICATION AND HARD WORK OF THE RETIRING MEMBERS.
MR MATHEWS SAID THE WORK OF THE COMMISSION BAD RESULTED IN A NUMBER OF BENEFICIAL (’RANGES TO THE LAWS OF HONG KONG.
MEMBERS BRING TO THE COMMISSION THE EXPERTISE GAINED IN A VARIETY OF BACKGROUNDS AND HELP FORMULATE PROPOSALS WHICH REFLECT THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY.
/"THERE IS .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
- 12 -
’’THERE IS STILL A GREAT DEAL OF WORK TO BE DONE IN THE FUTURE,” SAID MR MATHEWS.
AFTER THE RECENT CHANGES IN APPOINTMENTS, THE LAW REFORM COMMISSION NOW COMPRISES 12 APPOINTED MEMBERS INCLUDING PROFESSOR H C KUAN, MRS MIRIAM LAU, MR JUSTICE MORTIMER, MR LESLIE L SUNG, PROFESSOR DEREK ROEBUCK, MR ROBERT RIBEIRO, QC, MR ALASDAIR G MORRISON, MR PETER F RHODES, MR ANDREW LIAO, QC, MR JUSTEIN WONG, MR GAGE MCAFEE, AND PROFESSOR YASU GHAT.
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, THE CHIEF JUSTICE, AND THE LAW DRAFTSMAN ARE EX OFFICIO MEMBERS.
S6 CENTRAL ALLOCATION RESULTS RELEASE TOMORROW
*****
STUDENTS WHO HAVE REGISTERED FOR CENTRAL ALLOCATION OF THE REMAINING SECONDARY 6 VACANCIES ARE REMINDED THAT A LIST OF SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL BE DISPLAYED A'T THE FOLLOWING FIVE REGISTRATION CENTRES FROM 9 AM TOMORROW (TUESDAY).
* HONG KONG REGION
TANG SHIU KIN VICTORIA TECHNICAL SCHOOL OI KWAN ROAD, WAN CHAI
♦ KOWLOON REGION
HOMANTIN GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL
8 PERTH STREET, HO MAN TIN
KOWLOON TECHNICAL SCHOOL
332 CHEUNG SHA WAN ROAD, SHAM SHUI PO
* NEW TERRITORIES REGION
TSUEN WAN GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL
70 HOI PA STREET, TSUEN WAN
SHA TIN GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL
11-17 MAN LAI ROAD, SHA TIN
STUDENTS SHOULD RETURN TO THE SAME CENTRE WHERE THEY APPLIED FOR CENTRAL ALLOCATION TO SEE THE RESULT, AN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
HE SAID SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS SHOULD TAKE THEIR ALLOCATION SLIPS TO THE (HOSEN SCHOOL FOR REGISTRATION BEFORE 3.30 PM TOMORROW.
/"THERE WILL .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
"THERE WILL BE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THOSE STUDENTS STILL UNABLE TO SECURE A S6 PLACE AS SOME OF THOSE WHO HAD BEEN SUCCESSFUL DURING THE FIVE-STAGE PROCEDURE MAY DECIDE NOT TO TAKE UP THE PLACES," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
A LIST OF THESE VACANCIES SUBMITTED BY SCHOOL WILL BE DISPLAYED AND UPDATED WEEKLY AT ALL DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICES UP TO THE END OF SEPTEMBER.
APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE MADE TO THESE SCHOOLS DIRECT BUT ADMISSION WOULD BE ENTIRELY AT THE DISCRETION OF THE SCHOOL AUTHORITIES, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
- - 0 - -
COMPULSORY INSPECTION OF 1987 PRIVATE CARS ♦ * ♦ ♦ ♦
PRIVATE CARS MANUFACTURED IN 1987 OR BEFORE, WHICH REQUIRE A irLCENCE STARTING ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 1994, MUST PASS A ROADWORTHINESS TEST BEFORE RE-LICENSING, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (MONDAY).
UNDER THE PRIVATE CAR INSPECTION SCHEME, WHICH CAME INTO EFFECT ON JANUARY 2, 1986, ALL PRIVATE CARS WHICH ARE SIX YEARS OLD OR OVER MUST FIRST PASS A VEHICLE TEST AND OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE OF ROADWORTHINESS FROM A GOVERNMENT-DESIGNATED CAR TESTING CENTRE BEFORE THEIR LICENCES CAN BE RE-NEWED, A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
THERE ARE 24 DESIGNATED CAR TESTING CENTRES IN THE TERRITORY AND APPOINTMENTS FOR INSPECTION CAN BE MADE FOUR MONTHS BEFORE THE EXPIRY DATE OF THE VEHICLE LICENCE.
"THE CERTIFICATE IS ONLY VALID FOR RE-LICENSING WITHIN THE FOUR MONTHS IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE DATE OF ISSUE," HE ADDED.
THE INSPECTION FEE FOR A PRIVATE CAR IS $310, WHILE A RE-CHECK FEE OF $100 IS CHARGED WHEN DEFECTS FOUND IN THE ORIGINAL INSPECTION ARE RECTIFIED AND EXAMINED WITHIN 14 DAYS OF INITIAL EXAMINATION.
SHOULD A CAR OWNER DISAGREE WITH THE RESULT OF A TEST, HE CAN APPEAL TO THE DEPARTMENT FOR AN INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION.
"TO AVOID UNNECESSARY INCONVENIENCE, CAR OWNERS SHOULD HAVE THEIR CARS CHECKED AND REPAIRED BEFORE SENDING THEIR CARS FOR EXAMINATION AT A CAR TESTING CENTRE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 829 5466.
- - 0 - -
/14
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
14
WATER CUTS IN MONG KOK AND KOWLOON EAST
*****
FRESH WATER SUPPLY TO SOME PREMISES IN MONG KOK WILL GO OFF FROM 11 PM TOMORROW (TUESDAY) TO 6 AM THE FOLLOWING DAY TO FACILITATE WASTE DETECTION WORK ON WATERMAINS.
THE SUSPENSION WILL AFFECT ALL THE PREMISES AT PRINCE EDWARD ROAD WEST, TONG MI ROAD, MONG KOK ROAD, SHANGHAI STREET, LAI CHI KOK ROAD, CANTON ROAD, BUTE STREET AND RECLAMATION STREET.
MEANWHILE, SALT WATER SUPPLY TO SOME AREAS IN KOWLOON EAST WILL BE CUT OFF FROM 10 AM ON THURSDAY (AUGUST 26) TO 10 AM THE NEXT DAY TO FACILITATE MAINTENANCE WORK ON WATERMAINS.
THE AFFECTED AREA INCLUDE LAM TIN ESTATE, HONG TIN COURT, HONG WAH COURT, HING TIN ESTATE, SAU MAU PING ESTATE, UNITED CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL, HONG NING ROAD TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA, CHEUNG WO COURT, SHUN TIN ESTATE, SHUN ON ESTATE, SHUN LEE ESTATE, SHUN LEE TSUEN TEMPORARY HOUSING AREA, CHOI WAN ESTATE, LOK WAH ESTATE AND SHUN CHI COURT.
ALSO INCLUDED WILL BE ALL THE PREMISES AT KUNG LOK ROAD, HONG LEE ROAD AND HIU KWONG STREET.
--------0------------
FLOATING HOLIDAY FOR EMPLOYEES
*****
THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) REMINDED EMPLOYERS THAT THIS YEAR’S SECOND FLOATING HOLIDAY FALLS ON AUGUST 30, THE LAST MONDAY OF THE MONTH.
UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE, ALL EMPLOYEES SHALL BE GRANTED THEIR SECOND FLOATING HOLIDAY ON THIS DATE IF THE EMPLOYER HAS NOT ALREADY FIXED A DATE FOR THAT HOLIDAY OR IF THE EMPLOYEE HAS NOT REQUESTED IT TO BE ADDED TO HIS PAID ANNUAL LEAVE.
IN ADDITION, AN EMPLOYEE IS ENTITLED TO BE PAID FOR THAT HOLIDAY IF HE HAS WORKED FOR HIS EMPLOYER CONTINUOUSLY FOR THREE MONTHS PRECEDING THE HOLIDAY.
HOLIDAY PAY SHOULD BE EQUIVALENT TO AN EMPLOYEE’S EARNINGS ON A NORMAL WORKING DAY AND SHOULD INCLUDE BASIC WAGES AS WELL AS ALLOWANCES THAT CAN BE EXPRESSED IN MONEY TERMS SUCH AS MEALS AND COSTS OF LIVING ALLOWANCES.
WHERE THE EARNINGS VARY FROM DAY TO DAY, THE HOLIDAY PAY SHOULD BE THE AVERAGE DAILY EARNINGS DURING EVERY COMPLETE WAGE PERIOD OF 28 TO 31 DAYS PRECEDING THE MONTH.
IF AN EMPLOYEE IS REQUIRED TO WORK ON A STATUTORY HOLIDAY, HE MUST BE GIVEN AN ALTERNATIVE DAY OF WITHIN 60 DAYS BEFORE OR AFTER THAT.DAY.
ENQUIRIES ABOUT STATUTORY HOLIDAYS CAN BE MADE ON TEL 717 1771.
------0 - -
/IS .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
- 15 -
SEMINAR ON SAFETY IN SHIP-BUILDING AND SHIP-REPAIRING
* * * * *
A SEMINAR TO PROMOTE SAFETY AT WORK IN THE SHIP-BUILDING AND SHIP-REPAIRING INDUSTRY WILL BE HELD THIS FRIDAY (AUGUST 27) STARTING AT 2.30 PM AT LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY TRAINING CENTRE.
ORGANISED BY THE FACTORY INSPECTORATE DIVISION, THE SEMINAR IS DESIGNED FOR EMPLOYERS AND WORKERS IN THE INDUSTRY TO HELP THEM REALISE THE POTENTIAL HAZARDS AND THEIR DUTIES IN PREVENTING INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS.
DURING THE SEMINAR, THERE WILL BE TALKS ON THE POTENTIAL HAZARDS, SUCH AS FALLING FROM HEIGHT, INJURING BY MOVING PARTS OF MACHINERY AND IN WELDING PROCESSES, AND NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS TO PREVENT SUCH INJURIES.
PARTICIPANTS WILL ALSO BE BRIEFED ON LEGISLATIONS ON SHIP-BUILDING AND SHIP-REPAIRING INDUSTRY, THE STATUTORY OBLIGATIONS OF EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES WITH REGARD TO THE GENERAL DUTIES PROVISIONS, AND THE IMPORTANCE OF SETTING UP OF SAFETY COMMITTEES.
A DISCUSSION SESSION IS ARRANGED SO THAT PARTICIPANTS WILL BE sBLE TO EXCHANGE THEIR VIEWS AND EXPERIENCES.
THE SEMINAR WILL BE CONDUCTED IN CANTONESE AND ADMISSION IS FREE.
THERE WILL BE FIRST-SERVED BASIS.
ABOUT 50 PLACES
AND ENROLMENT IS ON A FIRST-COME-
ENQUIRIES AND
RESERVAT1ON CAN
BE MADE ON TEL 852 3564.
------0--------
WATER STORAGE FIGURE * * * * *
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (MONDAY) STOOD AT 79 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 462.745 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 500.337 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 85.4 PER CENT OF CAPACITY.
--------0-----------
/16........
MONDAY, AUGUST 23, 1993
- 16 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS * ♦ * *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,560
REVERSAL OF LAF +440
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECT1ON/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -145
CLOSING BALANCE TN THE ACCOUNT 1,855
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.2 *+0.0* 23.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.78 PCT 15 MONTHS 24 1 1 4 .625 101.32 3.55
1 MONTH 2.80 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4 .75 101.51 3.72
3 MONTHS 2.82 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 4 .75 99.57 4.05
6 MONTHS 3.06 PCT 24 MONTHS 2508 4 .625 100.82 4.23
12 MONTHS 3.33 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 12,315 MN
CLOSED 23 AUGUST 1993
------0----------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
CP REVIEWS POLICE WORK ....................................... i
RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE SURVEY RESULTS .......................... 2
TAC ENDORSES TAXI FARE RISES ................................. 8
S6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE ENDS TODAY ............................ 9
ANALYSIS OF HK’S EXTERNAL TRADE BY MODE OF TRANSPORT IN FIRST HALF OF 1993 .................................................. 10
IMPROVEMENTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEMES ...................... 19
ORDERLY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME ............................... 20
FOOTBRIDGE CONTRACT SIGNED ................................... 21
HEALTH CENTRE TO BE CONVERTED ................................ 21
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS ............ 22
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
23
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
CP REVIEWS POLICE WORK ♦ * ♦ ♦ ♦
THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, MR LI KWAN-HA, IS DETERMINED THAT ALL THE RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO THE FORCE WOULD CONTINUE TO BE USED TO BRING TO JUSTICE THOSE WHO RECKLESSLY THREATEN HUMAN LIFE IN THE TERRITORY DESPITE A DROP IN THE NUMBER OF VIOLENT CRIMES IN 1992.
THE PLEDGE WAS MADE BY MR LI IN THE ROYAL HONG KONG POLICE FORCE REVIEW 1992, WHICH WAS RELEASED TODAY [TUESDAY].
IN REVIEWING THE LAW AND ORDER SITUATION IN 1992, MR LI SAID THE YEAR WAS A CHALLENGING AND SUCCESSFUL ONE FOR THE FORCE WHICH SAW A WELCOME REVERSAL OF AN INCREASING TREND OVER THE PREVIOUS FOUR YEARS WITH THE TOTAL NUMBER OF CRIMES REPORTED TO POLICE DURING THE YEAR SHOWED A SIGNIFICANT DECREASE OF 5.2 PER CENT.
HE SAID WITH THE EXCEPTION OF VEHICLE THEFT, THERE HAD BEEN A REDUCTION IN ALL MAJOR CRIME AREAS, WHICH PARTICULARLY INCLUDED ALL VIOLENT (RIME AND CRIMES INVOLVING THE USE OF FIREARMS.
MR LI NOTED THAT THE NUMBER OF CRIMES PER 100,000 PEOPLE HAD STEADILY DROPPED OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS AND IN 1992 STOOD AT 1,446 WHICH COMPARED FAVOURABLY WITH THE MAJORITY OF OTHER LARGE CITIES AROUND THE WORLD.
COMMENTING ON THE NATURE OF VIOLENT CRIMES, MR LI NOTED THAT A NUMBER OF THEM COULD ONLY BE DESCRIBED AS SENSATIONAL AND THE DISREGARD FOR PUBLIC SAFETY BY THE PERPETRATORS AS HORRIFYING, PARTICULARLY SO WHEN HAND GRENADES AND AUTOMATIC WEAPONS WERE USED.
HOWEVER, HE WAS PLEASED TO REPORT THAT A MAJORITY OF THESE PERPETRATORS HAD BEEN ARRESTED, EITHER AT THE SCENES OF THEIR CRIMES OR, FOLLOWING INVESTIGATION, AT THEIR HIDEOUTS.
A NUMBER WHO INITIALLY ESCAPED TO ('ll I NA HAD BEEN REPATRIATED TO FACE TRIAL, AS A RESULT OF STEADILY IMPROVING CO-OPERATION BETWEEN THE TWO TERRITORIES, HE ADDED.
THE COMMISSIONER ESPECIALLY PAID TRIBUTE TO THE MANY BRAVE AND RESOURCEFUL ACTS AGAINST VIOLENT CRIME BY INDIVIDUAL POLICE OFFICERS AND SAID THEIR CHIVALROUS PERFORMANCE HAD "PROVIDED A CLEAR INDICATION OF THE FORCE-WIDE DETERMINATION TO APPREHEND THE OFFENDERS, AND, THEREBY, TO SEEK TO DISPEL THE FEAR OF CRIME WHICH IN THE MINDS OF MANY IS SO REAL".
HE STRESSED THAT PUBLIC REASSURANCE THAT THE POLICE WERE SUCCESSFULLY COMBATTING VIOLENT CRIME WAS A HIGH PRIORITY.
ON THE PROBLEM OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION, MR LI NOTED THAT THERE WAS A WORRYING TREND OF EVER INCREASING NUMBERS OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FROM CHINA DURING THE YEAR UNDER REVIEW.
/THE NUMBER .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 2
THE NUMBER OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT ARRESTED ROSE BY 40 PER CENT, FROM OVER 25,000 IN 1991 TO OVER 35,000 IN 1992 WITH THE VAST MAJORITY OF THE Il’S CAME TO HONG KONG TO SEEK WORK BUT A SMALL AND SIGNIFICANT NUMBER WERE BENT ON CRIMINAL ACTIVITY.
ON OTHER DEVELOPMENTS, MR LI NOTED THAT A WIDE RANGE OF INITIATIVES TO BETTER EQUIP THE FORCE TO MEET THE EVER-CHANGING NEEDS OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY WERE ALSO SEEN IN THE PAST YEAR.
THESE INCLUDED THE APPOINTMENT OF A MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT TO REVIEW FORCE MANAGEMENT AND COMMAND STRUCTURE; RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS; THE UPGRADING OF ARMS AND AMMUNITION FOR FRONTLINE OFFICERS; AND THE DELIVERY OF NEW COMMAND LAUNCHES AND PATROL VESSELS.
MR LI SAID ANOTHER INITIATIVE TAKEN BY THE FORCE IN THE YEAR WAS THE INTRODUCTION OF ITS FIRST PERFORMANCE PLEDGES, SETTING SERVICE STANDARDS TO THE PUBLIC IN THE SPIRIT OF THE SERVING THE COMMUNITY SCHEME AS ANNOUNCED BY THE GOVERNOR IN OCTOBER.
MR LI SAID THE DEVELOPMENT OF THIS INITIATIVE WOULD CONTINUE WITH THE PROGRESSIVE ESTABLISHMENT OF FURTHER PERFORMANCE PLEDGES AS THE FORCE WAS NOW PROCESSIVELY BEING ADAPTED FROM AN INWARD LOOKING ETHOS TO A CLIENT-BASED SERVICE CULTURE.
--------0 -
RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE SURVEY RESULTS ♦ t ♦ T t ♦ t
RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LENDING IN HONG KONG IS CURRENTLY GROWING AT THE FASTEST RATE SINCE THE ENI) OF 1991, ACCORDING TO THE RESULTS OF THE LATEST MONTHLY SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY (HKMA).
THE SURVEY COVERS A SAMPLE OF 28 AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS WHICH TOGETHER ACCOUNT FOR ABOUT 87 PER CENT OF THE TOTAL MORTGAGE LENDING OF THE BANKING SECTOR.
STARTING FROM THIS MONTH, THE HKMA IS GOING TO MAKE PUBLIC THE RESULTS OF THIS MONTHLY SURVEY.
THE LATEST FIGURES SHOWED I'll AT THE TOTAL AMOUNT of OUTSTANDING MORTGAGE LENDING BY THE 28 INSTITUTIONS IN THE SURVEY ROSE BY 2.6 PER CENT IN JULY (2.3 PER CENT IN JUNE) FROM $188.7 BILLION TO $193.7 BILLION.
"THE LATEST MONTHLY INCREASE IS WELL ABOVE THE AVERAGE OF 1.1 PER CENT FOR THE LAST 12 MONTHS AND IS THE LARGEST MONTHLY INCREASE SINCE THE SURVEY BEGAN IN JANUARY 1992," THE DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE (BANKING) OF THE HKMA, MR DAVID CARSE, SAID TODAY (TUESDAY).
/"IF WE .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 3 -
"IF WE LOOK AT THE AVERAGE RATE OF GROWTH OVER THE LATEST THREE MONTHS AND CONVERT THIS TO AN ANNUAL RATE OF GROWTH, IT CAN BE SEEN THAT THE RATE OF GROWTH HAS NOW RISEN TO 30.2 PER CENT PER ANNUM, COMPARED WITH 25.3 PER CENT PER ANNUM IN THE THREE-MONTH PERIOD TO JUNE.
"AGAIN, THIS IS THE HIGHEST GROWTH RATE SINCE THE END OF 1991," MR CARSE ADDED.
HE FURTHER NOTED THAT NEW LOANS APPROVED BUT NOT YET DRAWN ALSO GREW AT A FASTER PACE IN JULY IN TERMS OF BOTH NUMBERS AND AMOUNT.
"THIS SUGGESTS THAT THE GROWTH OF OUTSTANDING LENDING WILL CONTINUE TO BE RAPID IN AUGUST," HE SAID.
THE RESULTS OF THE JULY SURVEY HAVE, AS USUAL, BEEN PASSED ON TO THE BANKING SECTOR IN A LETTER TO THE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS BY MR CARSE.
IN HIS LETTER, MR CARSE HAS ADVISED THAT, IN THE LIGHT OF THE JULY FIGURES AND THE LATEST STATISTICS FOR PROPERTY PRICES AND TRANSACTIONS IN JULY, INSTITUTIONS SHOULD REVIEW AND, IF NECESSARY, TIGHTEN THEIR LENDING CRITERIA TO AVOID EXCESSIVE GROWTH IN THEIR MORTGAGE PORTFOLIOS.
"THE HKMA HAS NOT ADVOCATED A REDUCTION IN THE OVERALL 70 PER CENT LOAN TO VALUE RATIO.
"HOWEVER, THIS DOES NOT PREVENT INDIVIDUAL INSTITUTIONS FROM TAKING THE VIEW THAT LOWER RATIOS WOULD BE APPROPRIATE FOR LOANS IN RESPECT OF PARTICULAR TYPES OF PROPERTY," MR CARSE SAID.
THE MONTHLY SURVEY ALSO COVERS LENDING FOR THE PURCHASE OF PROPERTIES IN CHINA. THE LATEST FIGURES SHOW THAT SUCH LENDING ROSE BY 3.7 PER CENT IN JULY, MAINLY DUE TO LOANS FOR THE PURCHASE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY.
THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF OUTSTANDING LENDING REMAINS RELATIVELY LOW AT $3 BILLION.
NEW LOAN APPROVALS FELL SHARPLY IN JULY, FROM $231 MILLION TO $136 MILLION.
"THIS IS CONSISTENT WITH THE ADVICE OF THE HKMA THAT A MORE CONSERVATIVE APPROACH TOWARDS PROPERTY LENDING IN CHINA IS APPROPRIATE IN THE LIGHT OF THE CURRENT FINANCIAL SITUATION THERE," MR CARSE NOTED.
/4.........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
4
Residential Mortgage Loans in Hong Kong
Results of Survey for July 1893 (Sample of 28 Institutions}
July June
1993 1993
(Amount in HKS mn)
1. Outstanding lending
2.
a. Amount 193.652 188,749
b. Monthly growth 2.60% 2.33%
c. Three-month change (annualized) 30.15%* 25.34%
d. Twelve-month change Gross loans made during month 13.68%# 12.60%
a. Amount 10,650 9,250
b. Number 8393 7234
3. New loans approved during month drawn and undrawn
a. Amount b. Number 12,646 9933 10,443 7967
4. New loans approved during month but not yet drawn
a Amount b. Number 6,774 6519 S.927 4751
* the increase in the three months May — July converted to an annual rate. # the increase in th© twelve months August 1992 - July 1993
/CHart A .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 5 -
C51MLA
eqd of month
3ro?ffthJlfiX>pg ayc^frgttsUirateog aoxwaltted buJw
A3
/Chart B .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 6 -
cfeaitB
RESIDENTIAL M.ORTOA<?^LPANS^SJHQNG_KONG (28 institutions)
P&.PSSLOANS MADE TURING THE MONTH
Thousand BiBion
Bl
Number of accounts
B2
/Chart
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
Chart C,
?AL MORTGAGE JLOANSIN HONG KONG (28 institutions)
Thousand Billion
Amount
/8 ........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 8
TAC ENDORSES TAXI FARE RISES * t * t *
THE TRANSPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE TODAY (TUESDAY) ENDORSED FARE RISES FOR URBAN AND NEW TERRITORIES TAXIS ON ACCOUNT OF RISING OPERATING COSTS SINCE THEIR LAST FARE REVISIONS 20 MONTHS AGO.
MEMBERS HAVE CONSIDERED CAREFULLY THE APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED BY VARIOUS TAXI GROUPS AND A WIDE RANGE OF OPTIONS PRESENTED RY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT.
TN RECOMMENDING THE FARE INCREASES, CONSTDERAT ION WAS GIVEN TO THE FINANCIAL VIABILITY OF TAXI OPERATIONS, AVAILABILITY OF TAXIS, THE FARE DIFFERENTIAL WITH OTHER MODES OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT AND PUBLIC ACCEPTABILTTY.
MEMBERS NOTED THAT INFLATION WAS EXPECTED TO HAVE INCREASED BY 17.5% BETWEEN JANUARY 1992 (THE DATE OF LAST FARE REVISION) AND NOVEMBER 1993 (THE DATE OF THE ANTICIPATED INCREASE).
DURING THIS PERIOD, THE OPERATING COSTS OF URBAN TAXIS WOULD HAVE INCREASED BY 16.2% AND THE OPERATING COSTS OF NT TAXIS, BY 22.3%
AS A RESULT, THIS HAD MADE TRAVELLING ON A TAXI COMPARATIVELY CHEAPER. IN SOME CASES, IT WOULD COST EVEN LESS TO TRAVEL ON A TAXI ON A SHARED BASIS THAN ON OTHER PUBLIC TRANSPORT MODES AND THUS REDUCE THE AVAILABILITY OF TAXIS.
HAVING TAKEN ALL THESE FACTORS INTO ACCOUNT, TAC HAD RECOMMENDED AN AVERAGE INCREASE OF 17.7% FOR URBAN TAXIS AND 19.2% FOR NT TAXIS. THIS TOOK INTO ACCOUNT THE FACT THAT THE OPERATING COSTS OF NT TAXIS HAD INCREASED FASTER THAN THOSE OF URBAN TAXIS.
IF THE ADVICE OF THE TAC IS ACCEPTED, THE URBAN TAXI FLAGFALL RATE WILL GO UP FROM $9 TO $11.5 FOR THE FIRST 2 KM WITH EACH SUBSEQUENT METER JUMP FROM $0.9 TO $1 FOR 0.2 KM.
THE NT TAXI FLAGFALL RATE WILL GO UP FROM $8 TO $10 AND EACH SUBSEQUENT JUMP FROM $0.8 TO $0.9.
SUBJECT TO THE APPROVAL OF THE GOVERNOR IN COUNCIL AND AGREEMENT OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, IT IS INTENDED TO INTRODUCE THE NEW FARES IN NOVEMBER 1993.
THE COMMITTEE ALSO DISCUSSED MEASURES TO IMPROVE AVAILABILITY OF METERED PARKING SPACES AND THE REPORT OF THE TAC WORKING GROUP ON THE RAILWAY DEVELOPMENT STUDY (RDS).
ON ON-STREET METERED PARKING, MEMBERS NOTED THAT A TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SURVEY SHOWED THAT PARKING SPACES WERE FULLY OCCUPIED DURING MOST TIMES OF THE DAY IN BUSY AREAS SUCH AS CAUSEWAY BAY, CENTRAL, TSIM SHA TSUI, YAU MA TEI AND MONG KOK.
THIS HAD LED TO AN INCREASE IN TRAFFIC CONGESTION AS SOME VEHICLES CIRCULATED IN THESE AREAS IN SEARCH OF A PARKING SPACE.
/TO IMPROVE .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
9
TO IMPROVE THE AVAILABILITY OF ON-STREET METERED PARKING SPACES, MEMBERS ENDORSED THAT THE CHARGE SHOULD BE INCREASED FROM $2 PER 30 MINUTES TO $2 PER 15 MINUTES IN BUSY URBAN AREAS SUCH AS WAN CHAI, TSIM SHA TSUI, MONG KOK, CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICTS WITH EFFECT FROM APRIL 1994.
THE PARKING CHARGES WERE LAST REVISED IN 1987.
MEMBERS ALSO RECOMMENDED THAT CONSIDERATION RE GIVEN TO OTHER MEASURES TO IMPROVE I’HE AVAILABILITY OF METERED SPACES.
ON THE RDS, MEMBERS WERE INFORMED THAI THE TAC WORKING GROUP FOUND THAT THE RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT FOR THE PROPOSED WESTERN CORRIDOR WAS ACCEPTABLE.
HOWEVER, THE GROUP WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE ADEQUACY AND APPROPRIATENESS OF THE LRT AS A FEEDER SERVICE FOR TUEN MUN RESIDENTS AND STRONGLY SUGGESTED THAT THE POSSIBILITY OF EXTENDING THE WESTERN CORRIDOR TO TUEN MUN SHOULD BE CONSIDERED, THOUGH NOT NECESSARILY VTA TIN SHUI WAI WHICH COULD BE SERVED BY A FEEDER SERVICE.
THE WORKING GROUP AGREED THAT THE TSEUNG KWAN O EXTENSION SHOULD BE COMPLETED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE BEFORE 2001.
THE GROUP FELT THAT THE CHOICE OF ALIGNMENT FOR THE EAST KOWLOON ROUTE AND RELATED ISSUES SUCH AS THE LIKELIHOOD OF PRIVATE SECTOR PART 1 ('1 PAT I ON AND THE LEVEL OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE WOULD NEED FURTHER DETAILED ASSESSMENT.
FOR 'I’HE HONG KONG ISLAND PROPOSALS, THE GROUP CONSIDERED THE SOUTH HONG KONG ISLAND LINE MIGHT BE FEASIBLE WITH PRIVATE PARTICIPATION.
BUT, THE PROPOSED ELEVATED SYSTEM FOR THE NORTH HONG KONG ISLAND LINE MIGHT NEED FURTHER ASSESSMENT IN TERMS OF ITS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND PASSENGER CARRYING CAPACITY.
--------0-----------
S6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE ENDS TODAY *****
THE SECONDARY 6 ADMISSION PROCEDURE, WHICH BEGAN ON AUGUST 10, ENDED TODAY (TUESDAY) WITH THE POSTING OF A LIST OF SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS WHO HAI) APPLIED FOR CENTRAL ALLOCATION OF THE REMAINING 225 PLACES.
A TOTAL OF 23,200 SG PLACES WERE AVAILABLE FOR HONG KONG CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION (.-AND I DATES, WITH MORE THAN 50 PER CENT TAKEN UP ON THE FIRST DAY.
THERE WILL PI' AN OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS WHO ARE STILL UNABLE TO SECURE A S6 PLACE AS SOME OF THOSE WHO HAD BEEN SUCCESSFUL DURING THE FIVE-STAGE PROCEDURE MAY DECIDE NOT TO TAKE UP THE PLACES.
/A SPOKESMAN .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 10 -
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT REMINDED THESE STUDENTS THAT A LI ST OF*' VACANCIES SUBMITTED BY SCHOOLS WOULD BE DISPLAYED AND UPDATED WEEKLY AT ALL DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICES FROM THE BEGINNING OF SEPTEMBER UNTIL THE END OF THE MONTH.
APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE MADE TO THESE SCHOOLS DIRECT BUT ADMISSION WOULD BE ENTIRELY AT THE DISCRETION OF THE SCHOOLS AUTHORITIES, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
------0--------
ANALYSIS OF HK’S EXTERNAL TRADE BY MODE OF TRANSPORT IN FIRST HALF OF 1993 t t » ♦ ♦
THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE BY OCEAN ACCOUNTED FOR 52% OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, ACCORDING TO THE STATISTICS RELEASED BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY).
ANOTHER 26% WAS TRANSPORTED BY LAND AND A FURTHER 18% BY AIR. THE REST 4.8% INCLUDED SHIPMENT BY RIVER, AS POSTAL PARCELS, AND HAND-CARRIED GOODS BY PASSENGERS ON VARIOUS MEANS OF TRANSPORT.
SHIPMENT BY OCEAN AMOUNTED TO $510 BILLION IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, WITH AN INCREASE OF 12% OVER THAT TN THE SAME PERIOD TN 1992. HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE BY LAND WENT UP BY 17% TO $252 BILLION WHILE THAT BY AIR ALSO WENT UP BY 18% TO $177 BILLTON IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993.
THE UNITED STATES REMAINED THE LARGEST DESTINATION FOR HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS (INCLUDING DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS) BY OCEAN, ACCOUNTING FOR A SHARE OF 31% IN VALUE TERMS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993. THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS BY OCEAN TO THE UNITED STATES WENT UP BY 10% IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993.
THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS BY OCEAN TO CHINA INCREASED BY 60% IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992. INCREASES WERE ALSO RECORDED IN SEABORNE TOTAL EXPORTS TO THE OTHER MAJOR DESTINATIONS : GERMANY (+16%), JAPAN (+8.2%) AND THE UNITED KINGDOM (+11%).
JAPAN WAS THE LARGEST SUPPLIER OF HONG KONG’S IMPORTS BY OCEAN, ACCOUNTING FOR A SHARF OF 28% IN VALUE IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993. THE VALUE OF IMPORTS BY OCEAN FROM JAPAN WENT UP BY 18% IN THE FIRST HALF IN 1993 OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
INCREASES WERE ALSO RECORDED IN SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM TAIWAN (+8.4%), THE UNITED STATES (+11%) AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (+5.4%). HOWEVER, THE VALUE OF SEABORNE IMPORTS FROM CHINA DECREASED BY 4.2%.
IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, THE UNITED STATES MARKET ACCOUNTED FOR 29% OF THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL EXPORTS BY AIR IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993. THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS BY AIR TO THE UNITED STATES INCREASED BY 21% OVER. THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
/THE VALUE .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS BY AIR TO MOST OTHER MAJOR DESTINATIONS ALSO WENT UP.
AIRBORNE IMPORTS FROM ALL MAJOR SUPPLIERS INCREASED CONSIDERABLY IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993. THE PERCENTAGE INCREASES TN VALUE TN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992 WERE: JAPAN (+13%), THE UNITED STATES (+38%), SINGAPORE (+42%), TAIWAN (+25%) AND SWITZERLAND (+5.6%).
SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS BY OCEAN FOR FOOTWEAR (BY $6,155 MILLION OR 42%); MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $5,142 MILLION OR 15%) AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $4,379 MILLION OR 24%) AS WELL AS IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS BY OCEAN FOR ROAD VEHICLES (BY $15,625 MILLION OR 135%); AND GENERAL INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT, AND MACHINE PARTS (BY $2,749 MILLION OR 26%).
HOWEVER, CONSIDERABLE DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY OCEAN FOR CLOTHING (BY $2,087 MILLION OR 9.3%); AND MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY PRINTED MATTERS (BY $813 MILLION OR 17%).
COMPARING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS BY AIR FOR ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $6,313 MILLION OR 29%); AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $2,616 MILLION OR 60%).
AS REGARDS EXPORTS BY AIR, INCREASES WERE RECORDED FOR REEXPORTS OF ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $2,737 MILLION OR 35%); CLOTHING (BY $2,281 MILLION OR 32%), PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY $1,132 MILLION OR 18%); AND DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $1,491 MILLION OR 30%).
HOWEVER, SIGNIFICANT DECREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS BY AIR FOR CLOTHING (BY $748 MILLION OR 8.8%); AND PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS (BY $643 MILLION OR 12%).
COMPARING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992, SIGNIFICANT INCREASES WERE RECORDED IN THE VALUE OF IMPORTS BY LAND FOR FOOTWEAR (BY $4,620 MILLION OR 46%); CLOTHING (BY $3,657 MILLION OR 13%), MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES CONSISTING OF MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS (BY $3,106 MILLION OR 18%); AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $2,541 MILLION OR 20%).
AS REGARDS EXPORTS BY LAND, INCREASES WERE RECORDED FOR REEXPORTS OF ROAD VEHICLES (BY $3,052 MILLION OR 126%); MACHINERY SPECIALISED FOR PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES (BY $1,385 MILLION OR 39%); AND ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF (BY $1,159 MILLION OR 28%); AND DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT (BY $1,166 MILLION OR 33%).
/DETAILED STATISTICS .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 12 -
DETAILED STATISTICS OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE ANALYSED BY MODE OF TRANSPORT ARE PUBLISHED IN THE JUNE 1993 ISSUE OF THE "HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE" REPORT WHICH IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR SALE AT $68.50 A COPY.
THE REPORT CAN BE PURCHASED EITHER AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE ON THE GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, OR THE PUBLICATIONS SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT ON THE 19TH FLOOR, WANCHAI TOWER, 12 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
ENQUIRIES REGARDING REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION TO THIS REPORT MAY BE DIRECTED TO THE INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT AT FRENCH MISSION BUILDING, 1 BATTERY PATH, HONG KONG (TEL. NO. 842 8802) AND ENQUIRIES ON TRADE STATISTICS TO THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL. NO. 582 4915).
NOTE TO EDITORS:
TABLE 1 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE ANALYSED BY MODE OF TRANSPORT IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD TN 1992.
TABLE 2 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN VALUE OF TRADE BY OCEAN WITH MAJOR TRADING PARTNERS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
TABLE 3 SHOWS THE CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF TRADE BY AIR WITH MAJOR TRADING PARTNERS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 COMPARED WITH THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992.
MORE DETAILED FIGURES ON CHANGES IN THE VALUE OF EXTERNAL TRADE BY OCEAN BETWEEN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 AND THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992 ANALYSED BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 4.
CHANGES IN VALUE OF EXTERNAL TRADE BY AIR BETWEEN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 AND THE SAME PERIOD TN 1992 ANALYSED BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 5.
CHANGES IN VALUE OF EXTERNAL TRADE BY LAND BETWEEN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 AND THE SAME PERIOD IN 1992 ANALYSED BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION ARE SHOWN IN TABLE 6.
/TABLE 1
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
13
TABLE 1 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY MODE OF TRANSPORT
MODE OF TRANSPORT/ TYPE OF TRADE JAN-JUN 1993 HKD Mn. JAN-JUN 1992 HKD Mn. YEAR-ON-YEAR < HKD Mn. CHANGE %
OCEAN
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 42,410 47,615 5,204 10.9
RE-EXPORTS 219,340 186,429 + 32,911 + 17.7
TOTAL EXPORTS 261,750 234,043 ♦ 27,707 + 11.8
IMPORTS 248,208 221,727 ♦ 26,480 + 11.9
TOTAL BY OCEAN 509,958 455,770 4- 54,187 + 11.9
AIR
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 30,754 31,192 438 1.4
RE-EXPORTS 50,081 40,757 + 9,324 + 22.9
TOTAL EXPORTS 80,835 71,949 * 8,886 + 12.4
IMPORTS 96,005 77,974 * 18,030 ♦ 23.1
TOTAL BY AIR 176,840 149,923 * 26,916 + 18.0
LAND
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 25,925 24,379 ♦ 1,545 + 6.3
RE-EXPORTS 80,962 64,774 * 16,187 + 25.0
TOTAL EXPORTS 106,886 89,154 + 17,733 + 19.9
IMPORTS 144,624 125,810 + 18,814 + 15.0
TOTAL BY LAND 251,510 214,964 + 36,547 + 17.0
OTHERS
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 4,093 3,755 + 338 + 9.0
RE-EXPORTS 25,407 17,272 + 8,134 + 47.1
TOTAL EXPORTS 29,500 21,028 -»• 8,472 + 40.3
IMPORTS 17,890 17,135 4- 755 4- 4.4
TOTAL BY OTHERS 47,390 38,162 4- 9,228 4- 24.2
ALL MODES OF TRANSPORT
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 103,182 106,941 3,759 3.5
RE-EXPORTS 375,789 309,232 4- 66,557 4- 21.5
TOTAL EXPORTS 478,971 416,173 4- 62,798 4- 15.1
IMPORTS 506,726 442,646 4- 64,080 4- 14.5
TOTAL TRADE 985,698 858,820 4- 126,878 4- 14.8
/TABLE 2 : .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 14 -
TABLE 2 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY OCEAN BY MAJOR TRADING PARTNER
TRADING PARTNER JAN-JUN 1993 HKD Mn. JAN-JUN 1992 HKD Mn. YEAR-ON-YEAR HKD Mn. CHANGE %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS
(DESTINATION)
UNITED STATES 14,388 17,124 - 2,736 16.0
GERMANY 4,040 4,307 267 6.2
UNITED KINGDOM 3,502 4,077 575 14.1
JAPAN 1,955 2,177 222 10.2
CANADA 1,512 1,688 176 10.4
ALL COUNTRIES 42,410 47,615 5,204 10.9
RE-EXPORTS
(DESTINATION)
UNITED STATES 65,658 55,363 + 10,295 4- 18.6
CHINA / 24,388 14,765 * 9,624 + 65.2
GERMANY 15,123 12,210 + 2,914 + 23.9
JAPAN 13,413 12,027 + 1,386 + 11.5
UNITED KINGDOM 8,617 6,804 + 1,813 + 26.7
ALL COUNTRIES 219,340 186,429 + 32,911 4- 17.7
TOTAL EXPORTS
(DESTINATION)
UNITED STATES 80,047 72,487 4- 7,560 4- 10.4
CHINA 25,879 16,126 4- 9,753 4- 60.5
GERMANY 19,163 16,517 4- 2,647 4- 16.0
JAPAN 15,369 14,204 4- 1,164 4- 8.2
UNITED KINGDOM 12,119 10,881 4- 1,238 4- 11.4
ALL COUNTRIES 261,750 234,043 + 27,707 4- 11.8
IMPORTS
(SUPPLIER)
JAPAN 69,402 58,970 4- 10,432 4- 17.7
TAIWAN 39,176 36,157 4- 3,019 4- 8.4
UNITED STATES 21,681 19,534 4- 2,147 4- 11.0
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 20,458 19,416 4- 1,042 4- 5.4
CHINA 17,723 18,497 775 4.2
ALL COUNTRIES 248,208 221,727 4- 26,480 4- 11.9
/TABLE 3 : .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 15
TABLE 3 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY AIR BY MAJOR TRADING PARTNER
TRADING PARTNER JAN-JUN 1993 HKD Mn. JAN-JUN 1992 HKD Mn. YEAR-ON-YEAR HKD Mn. CHANGE %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS
(DESTINATION)
UNITED STATES 11,152 10,884 + 268 4 2.5
SINGAPORE 4,026 3,487 4 539 4 15.5
JAPAN 2,774 3,163 390 12.3
GERMANY 2,272 2,566 294 11.5
TAIWAN 1,689 1,413 + 275 * 19.5
ALL COUNTRIES 30,754 31,192 438 1.4
RE-EXPORTS
(DESTINATION)
UNITED STATES 12,406 8,540 4 3,866 + 45.3
JAPAN 5,251 4,263 4 989 4 23.2
TAIWAN 4,815 4,319 + 495 4 11.5
CHINA 3,496 2,610 + 886 4 33.9
REPUBLIC OF KOREA 3,343 2,839 + 504 4- 17.8
ALL COUNTRIES 50,081 40,757 + 9,324 + 22.9
TOTAL EXPORTS
(DESTINATION)
UNITED STATES 23,558 19,424 4 4,134 + 21.3
JAPAN 8,025 7,426 + 599 + 8.1
TAIWAN 6,503 5,733 + 771 4 13.4
SINGAPORE 6,450 5,776 + 674 4 11.7
GERMANY 5,411 5,294 4 117 4 2.2
ALL COUNTRIES 80,835 71,949 4 8,886 4 12.4
IMPORTS
(SUPPLIER)
JAPAN 18,575 16,469 4 2,106 4 12.8
UNITED STATES 17,264 12,521 4 4,742 4 37.9
SINGAPORE 7,692 5,405 4 2,287 4 42.3
TAIWAN 5,855 4,691 4 1,163 4 24.8
SWITZERLAND 4,727 4,477 4 250 4 5.6
ALL COUNTRIES 96,005 77,974 4 18,030 4 23.1
/TABLE 4 : .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
16
TABLE 4 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY OCEAN BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION
COMMODITY DIVISION JAN-JUN 1993 HKD Mn. JAN-JUN 1992 HKD Mn. YEAR-ON-YEAR CHANGE
HKD Mn. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 20,318 22,405 - 2,087 - 9.3
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 4,427 4,550 - 124 - 2.7
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY PRINTED MATTER) 4,100 4,912 - 813 - 16.5
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 2,033 2,170 - 137 — 6.3
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 1,596 2,186 - 590 - 27.0
aE-EXPORTS
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 39,816 34,674 + 5,142 + 14.8
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 28,957 26,548 + 2,409 4 9.1
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 22,743 18,364 1 + 4,379 4 23.8
FOOTWEAR 20,884 14,729 4 6,155 4- 41.8
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 12,819 10,518 ,4 2,301 4 21.9
IMPORTS
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 32,274 34,524 - 2,250 - 6.5
ROAD VEHICLES 27,233 11,608 4- 15,625 + 134.6
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 17,453 16,757 4 696 4- 4.2
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 14,110 13,302 4- 808 4- 6.1
GENERAL INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT, AND MACHINE PARTS 13,431 10,682 4 2,749 4- 25.7
/TABLE 5 : .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
17 -
TABLE 5 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY AIR BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION
COMMODITY DIVISION JAN-JUN 1993 HKD Mn. JAN-JUN 1992 HKD Mn. YEAR-ON-YEAR CHANGE
HKD Mn. %
DOMESTIC EXPORTS
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 7,761 8,509 — 748 — 8.8
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 6,518 5,027 + 1,491 4- *» n *7
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 6, 154 6,431 - 277 - 4.3
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 4,939 5,582 — 643 11.5
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY JEWELLERY, GOLDSMITHS' AND SILVERSMITHS’ WARES) 2,557 2,804 - 247 - 8.8
RE-EXPORTS
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 10,617 7,880 + 2,737 4- 34.7
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 9,349 7,068 2,281 4- 32.3
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 7,443 6,311 + 1,132 4- 17.9
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 4,438 3,356 4- 1,082 4- 32.2
NON-METALLIC MINERAL MANUFACTURES 4,106 3,783 + 323 4- 8.5
IMPORTS •
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 27,721 21,408 • + 6,313 4- 29.5
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 10,755 10,699 56 4- 0.5
NON-METALLIC MINERAL MANUFACTURES 10,611 9,093 + 1,518 4- 16.7
OFFICE MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES 8, 126 7, 193 + 933 4- 13.0
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 6,976 4,361 + 2,616 + 60.0
/TABLE 6 : .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 18 -
i*
TABLE 6 : EXTERNAL TRADE BY LAND BY MAJOR COMMODITY DIVISION
COMMODITY DIVISION
JAN-JUN 1993
HKD Mn.
JAN-JUN 1992
HKD Mn.
YEAR-ON-YEAR CHANGE
HKD Mn.
DOMESTIC EXPORTS
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING
APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 4,689 3,523 + 1,166 4- 33.1
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 3,134 3,259 - 125 - 3.8
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 2,406 2,595 — 189 7.3
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 2,125 1,918 + 208 4- 10.8
PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES, OPTICAL GOODS, WATCHES AND CLOCKS 1,453 1,774 - 321 - 18.1
RE-EXPORTS
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 19,326 18,521 + 806 + 4.4
PLASTICS IN PRIMARY FORMS 5,534 4,899 4- 635 *4- 13.0
ROAD VEHICLES 5,477 2,425 4- 3,052 4- 125.8
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY, APPARATUS AND APPLIANCES, AND ELECTRICAL PARTS THEREOF 5,347 4,187 4- 1,159 + 27.7
MACHINERY SPECIALIZED FOR PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES 4,914 3,528 4- 1,385 4- 39.3
IMPORTS
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES 30,792 27,135 + 3,657 4- 13.5
MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURED ARTICLES (MAINLY BABY CARRIAGES, TOYS, GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS) 20,470 17,364 + 3,106 4- 17.9
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SOUND RECORDING AND REPRODUCING APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT 14,954 12,413 4- 2,541 4- 20.5
FOOTWEAR 14,745 10,125 4- 4,620 4- 45.6
TEXTILE YARN, FABRICS, MADE-UP ARTICLES AND RELATED PRODUCTS 12,343 12,672 329 — 2.6
------0-----------
/19........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 19 -
IMPROVEMENTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEMES
*****
SOCIAL SECURITY RECIPIENTS HAVE A REAL BOOST IN PAYMENTS, RANGING FROM FOUR PER CENT TO 37 PER CENT, UNDER THE NEW COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE SCHEME FROM .JULY 1.
ADDRESSING A CITY LIONS CLUB OF HONG KONG LUNCHEON TODAY (TUESDAY), THE DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL WELFARE, MR IAN STRACHAN, SAID WITH IMPROVEMENTS TO A GREAT VARIETY OF SUPPLEMENTS AND SPECIAL GRANTS, THE STANDARD OF LIVING OF THESE RECIPIENTS HAD NOT LAGGED BEHIND THAT OF THE GENERAL POPULATION.
THESE IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDE LONG-TERM SUPPLEMENT FOR LARGER FAMILIES, MEAL ALLOWANCE FOR FULL-DAY STUDENTS, REVISION OF RENT ALLOWANCE AND OTHER IMPROVEMENTS TO MEET SPECIFIC NEEDS.
HE SAID THE NEW COMPREHENSIVE SOCIAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE SCHEME WAS BUILT ON THREE SIMPLE COMPONENTS: A RANGE OF STANDARD RATES FOR DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF CUSTOMERS, RENT, AND PROVISION FOR SPECIAL GRANTS TO MEET INDIVIDUAL NEEDS.
"ONE CRITICISM HAS BEEN THAT THE STANDARD RATES ARE INADEQUATE. BUT REGARD MUST BE GIVEN TO THE EXTRA ASSISTANCE PAYABLE UNDER SPECIAL GRANTS," HE ADDED.
HE NOTED THAT TAKING ALL THOSE COMPONENTS INTO ACCOUNT, THE AVERAGE SOCIAL SECURITY PAYMENTS TO A FAMILY OF FOUR NOW REACHED TO ABOUT $5,800 A MONTH, WHICH IS 92 PER (’ENT OF AN AVERAGE MANUFACTURING WORKER’S WAGE. THE AVERAGE PAYMENT FOR A SINGLE PERSON IS $2,000.
MR STRACHAN ALSO INTRODUCED TO THE CITY LIONS THE MAJOR NON-CONTRIBUTORY SOCIAL SECURITY ALLOWANCES WHICH COMPRISE OLD AGE ALLOWANCE, HIGHER OLD AGE ALLOWANCE, DISABILITY ALLOWANCE AND HIGHER DISABILITY ALLOWANCE.
"THESE ARE DESIGNED TO PROVIDE A MONTHLY FLAT-RATE ALLOWANCE FOR THE ELDERLY AND THE SEVERELY DISABLED PERSONS TO MEET THEIR SPECIAL NEEDS ARISING FROM OLD AGE AND DISABILITY," HE SAID.
HE NOTED THAT SOME 400,000 ELDERLY AND SEVERELY DISABLED PERSONS WERE RECEIVING SUCH ALLOWANCES, ADDING THAT PAYMENT RATES WERE REVISED ANNUALLY TO TAKE ACCOUNT OF INFLATION.
HE SAID THE NUMBER OF ELDERLY PERSONS AGED 65 AND ABOVE WAS PROJECTED TO INCREASE FROM 534,700 TN 1993 TO 720,600 IN 2002.
"THIS WOULD MEAN MUCH LARGER WELFARE EXPENDITURE IN THE YEARS TO COME," HE SAID.
MR STRACHAN NOTED THAT THE FAMILY WAS ALSO A SOURCE OF SUPPORT AND STRENGTH IN THE CARE OF THE INFIRM, ELDERLY, DISABLED PERSONS AND YOUNG PEOPLE.
/"THE DEPARTMENT .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
’’THE DEPARTMENT THEREFORE ATTACHES GREAT IMPORTANCE TO SUSTAIN AND STRENGTHEN THE ROLE OF FAMILIES THROUGH PREVENTIVE MEASURES AGAINST FAMILY BREAKDOWN, SUPPORTIVE SERVICES AND TREATMENT PROGRAMMES," HE ADDED.
HE SAID CONCRETE FAMILY ACTION PLANS HAD ALSO BEEN FORMULATED AND THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT WAS WORKING CLOSELY WITH THE NON-GOVERNMENTAL SECTOR TO ACHIEVE PLANNED TARGETS.
"DEPENDING ON THE AVAILABILITY OF RESOURCES, WE SHALL REALISE MANY OF OUR PLANS TN THE YEARS AHEAD," HE SAID.
RESOURCES INVESTED TO THAT END CONSTITUTE A SOUND INVESTMENT AND SHOULD BE ACCORDED HIGH PRIORITY TN THE DEPARTMENT’S FUTURE SERVICE PROVISION, MR STRACHAN CONCLUDED.
- - 0 - -
ORDERLY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME *****
THE ACTING REFUGEE CO-ORDINATOR, MR EDDY CHAN, TODAY WELCOMED THE SMOOTH REPATRIATION OF 58 VIETNAMESE NON-REFUGEES ON THE THIRTEENTH FLIGHT UNDER THE ORDERLY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME (ORP), BRINGING THE TOTAL NUMBER OF RETURNEES ON THESE FLIGHTS TO 680.
TODAY’S GROUP OF SCREENED-OUT NON-REFUGEES FROM BOTH NORTH AND SOUTH VIETNAM COMPRISED 22 MEN, 14 WOMEN, EIGHT BOYS AND 10 GIRLS FROM THE HIGH ISLAND, NEI KWU CHAU AND CHI MA WAN DETENTION CENTRES, AND FOUR DEPORTEES.
NEARLY ALL ARRIVED IN HONG KONG IN 1988 AND 1989.
MR CHAN WAS PLEASED TO NOTE THE UPSURGE OF APPLICATIONS TO JOIN THE VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME FOLLOWING THE UNHCR ANNOUNCEMENT TN JULY TO REDUCE THE REINTEGRATION ASSISTANCE.
”1 EXPECT THE NUMBER OF VOLUNTARY RETURNEES IN SEPTEMBER TO WELL EXCEED 1,000 AGAINST THE MONTHLY AVERAGE OF 650 SO FAR THIS YEAR", HE SAID.
"WE WILL CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN THESE ORP FLIGHTS AT SEVERAL WEEKS’ INTERVAL TO ENCOURAGE VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION."
- - 0 - -
/21
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 21 -
FOOTBRIDGE CONTRACT SIGNED * * * * *
THE TSUEN WAN DEVELOPMENT OFFICE (TWDO) OF THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT TODAY (TUESDAY) SIGNED A $35.3 MILLION CONTRACT FOR THE BUILDING OF THREE COVERED FOOTBRIDGES IN TSI NG YI TOWN CENTRE.
THE CONTRACT WAS SIGNED BY THE DEPUTY PROJECT MANAGER OF TWDO, MR TUNG SHU-SHING, AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE CONTRACTOR, FLETCHER CONSTRUCT I ON COMPANY, LIMI TED.
THE CONTRACT WORKS, WHICH ARE UNDER PHASE II OF THE TSING YI TOWN CENTRE FOOTBRIDGES SYSTEM, ARE PART OF THE CONTINUING PROGRAMME FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TSUEN WAN NEW TOWN.
THE WORKS COMPRISE THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FOOTBRIDGE ACROSS TSING YI HEUNG SZE WU1 ROAD NEAR THE POLICE DISTRICT HEADQUARTERS TO LINK UP WITH THE ELEVATED WALKWAY SYSTEM IN GREENFIELD GARDEN.
IT ALSO INCLUDES THE BUILDING OF TWO OTHER FOOTBRIDGES ACROSS FUNG SHUE WO ROAD TO LINK THE ELEVATED WALKWAY SYSTEM IN GREENFIELD GARDEN WITH THAT IN SERENE GARDEN, AND TO LINK FUNG SHUE WO VILLAGE RESITE AREA WITH TSING YI ESTATE PHASE II.
THE WORKS HAS BEGUN RECENTLY FOR COMPLETION IN 18 MONTHS.
------0-------
HEALTH CENTRE TO BE CONVERTED *****
THE NAM SHAN MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CENTRE (MCHC) IN NAM SHAN ESTATE, KOWLOON, WILL BE CONVERTED INTO THE FIRST CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY RUN BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.
THE NEW CENTRE IS EXPECTED TO START OPERATION AT THE END OF THIS YEAR.
TO MAKE WAY FOR THE CONVERSION, THE SERVICES AT THE NAM SHAN MCHC WILL BE TAKEN OVER BY TWO OTHER CENTRES FROM AUGUST 31 (TUESDAY).
THE CENTRES ARE:
* CHEUNG SHA WAN MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CENTRE
2 KWONG LEE ROAD
TEL : 361 2802
* SHEK KIP MEI MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CENTRE
2 BERWICK STREET
TEL : 777 5955
NEW CLIENTS MAY GO TO ANY ONE OF THE TWO CENTRES, BUT EXISTING CLIENTS SHOULD GO TO EITHER ONE OF THEM AS DIRECTED BEFOREHAND DUE TO THE TRANSFER OF MEDICAL RECORDS.
------0--------
/22 .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 22 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS *****
TENDER DATE 24 AUG 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q334
AMOUNT APPLIED HKD 2,300 MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HKD 1,000 MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 2.90 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 2.91 PCT
PRO RATA RATTO ABOUT 63 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 2.92 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 30 AUGUST 1993 -
TENDER DATE 31 AUG 93 31 AUG 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q33 5 H372
ISSUE DATE 1 SEPT 93 1 SEPT 93
MATURITY DATE 1 DEC 93 2 MAR 94
TENOR 91 DAYS 182 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HKD 1,000+200 MN HKD 400+80 MN
---------0-----------
/23........
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1993
- 23 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE EUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ♦ * * ♦ ♦
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1 ,855
REVERSAL OE LAE BALANCE AETER REVERSAL OE LAE NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY EFFECT OE LAE TODAY CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT + 145 2,000 NIL + 100 2,100
LAE RATE 2.00 BID/1.00 OFFER TW I I I 2.3 HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE *+0.1* 24.8.93 EUNI)
EE BILLS EE NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.79 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 101.33 3.54
1 MONTH 2.83 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.51 3.72
3 MONTHS 2.86 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 4.75 99.58 4.04
6 MONTHS 3.06 PCT 24 MONTHS 2508 12 MONTHS 3.35 PCT 4.625 100.80 4.24
TOTAL TURNOVER OE BILLS AND RONDS - 16,807 MN
CLOSED AUGUST 24, 1993
-----0
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
DH LAUNCHES PHASE II OF PERFORMANCE Pl.EDGE j
STATEMENT ON LORD KADOORIE'S DEATH 2
CONTRACT SIGNED FOR MA ON SHAN ROAD AND DRAINAGE WORKS ...... 3
HEAVY FINES IMPOSED FOR UNREPORTED OVERTIME WORK 3
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS . 4
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 1993
1
DH LAUNCHES PHASE II OF
* * * « *
PERFORMANCE PLEDGE * »
ANOTHER 13 GENERAL OUT-PATIENT (GOP) CLINICS UNDER THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TOOK PART IN THE SECOND PHASE OF THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGE PROGRAMME TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE TO ANNOUNCE THE LAUNCHING OF THE SECOND PHASE OF THE PROGRAMME, THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, DR S H LEE, SAID SO FAR A TOTAL OF 28 GOP CLINICS HAD PARTICIPATED IN THE EXERCISE.
DR LEE SAID THE STANDARDS AND TARGETS FOR PHASE II CLINICS WERE MORE OR LESS THE SAME AS THOSE IN PHASE I BUT WITH RESOURCES AVAILABLE AND CO-OPERATION OF STAFF, COMPUTERISED DRUG LABELLING AND PATIENT SUPPORT GROUPS WOULD BECOME ADDITIONAL FEATURES IN THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGE CLINICS.
IN ADDITION, TO PROVIDE FOR A DIRECT EXCHANGE OF VIEWS BETWEEN CLINIC USERS AND THE DEPARTMENT ON THE SERVICES PROVIDED, THE DEPARTMENT WILL BE ESTABLISHING THE FIRST PATIENT LIAISON GROUP INVOLVING INITIALLY PATIENTS ATTENDING THE GENERAL OUT-PATIENT CLINICS IN KWUN TONG.
"RECRUITMENT OF MEMBERS TO JOIN THE PATIENT LIAISON GROUP IS NOW UNDER WAY THROUGH POSTERS AND INVITATIONS AT THE CONCERNED CLINICS,” HE SAID.
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IS AMONG THE FIRST BATCH OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS SETTING PERFORMANCE PLEDGES WITH AN AIM OF IMPROVING THE SERVICE DELIVERY TO THE PUBLIC AND DEVELOPING A MORE CUSTOMER-BASED CULTURE.
THE FIRST PHASE OF THIS PROGRAMME, COVERING 15 GENERAL OUTPATIENT CLINICS, WAS FORMALLY LAUNCHED IN DECEMBER LAST YEAR.
"ALTHOUGH THE SCHEME HAS BEEN IN EXISTENCE FOR ONLY NINE MONTHS, VISIBLE IMPROVEMENTS ARE TAKING PLACE GRADUALLY. FEEDBACK FROM BOTH PATIENTS AND STAFF HAS BEEN MOST ENCOURAGING,” SAID DR LEE.
HE ALSO ELABORATED ON THE IMPROVEMENTS ACHIEVED INCLUDING CONTINUITY OF PATIENT CARE THROUGH INDIVIDUAL MEDICAL RECORDS, PATIENTS BEING ATTENDED TO WITHIN THE PLEDGED WAITING TIMES, DRUG LABELLING, IMPROVEMENT OF CLINIC ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH EDUCATION TALKS AND SELF-CARE SUPPORT GROUPS FOR PATIENTS.
DR LEE STATED THAT THE DEPARTMENT PLANNED TO COVER THE REMAINING 28 GOP CLINICS IN TWO FURTHER PHASES NEXT YEAR.
THE DIRECTOR ALSO POINTED OUT THAT IN AN ATTEMPT TO FIND OUT THE VIEWS OF THE USERS, A SURVEY WAS CONDUCTED IN MAY AMONG PATIENTS ATTENDING THE 15 GENERAL OUT-PATIENT CLINICS UNDER PHASE I OF THE PROGRAMME.
OF THE 1,132 PATIENTS SELECTED ON A RANDOM BASIS, 807 WERE SUCCESSFULLY INTERVIEWED, GIVING A RESPONSE RATE OF 71 PER CENT.
/THE SURVEY .......
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 1993
- 2 -
THE SURVEY REVEALED THAT 80 PER CENT OF THE RESPONDENTS WERE SATISFIED WITH THE OVERALL SERVICE IN THE SURVEYED CLINICS, 19 PER CENT REGARDED THE SERVICE AS FAIR WHILE A SMALL PERCENTAGE OF ONE PER CENT WERE NOT SATISFIED.
AMONGST THE VARIOUS ASPECTS OF THE SERVICE, RESPONDENTS WERE MOST SATISFIED WITH "HEALTH TALKS” (81%), FOLLOWED BY "STAFF ATTITUDE" (79%) AND "WAITING HALL ENVIRONMENT" (78%).
ABOUT FIVE PERCENT OF THE RESPONDENTS FELT THAT "ARRANGEMENT OF SEEING A DOCTOR" COULD BE IMPROVED.
WHEN COMPARED WITH THIS SERVICE PROVIDED A YEAR AGO, THAT IS, BEFORE THE INTRODUCTION OF THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGE, ALMOST HALF OF THE RESPONDENTS (47%) HAD ALREADY FELT THE IMPROVEMENT.
DR LEE STRESSED THAT THE SUCCESS OF THE PERFORMANCE PLEDGE PROGRAMME DEPENDED ON EFFECTIVE MONITORING AND REGULAR FEEDBACK. HE PLEDGED THAT "WE CARE, WE COMMUNICATE AND WE ACT FOR BETTER SERVICE."
STATEMENT ON LORD KADOORIE’S DEATH
*****
THE ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, TODAY (WEDNESDAY) MADE THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNOR, MR CHRISTOPHER PATTEN, AND THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT:
"I WAS DEEPLY SADDENED TO HEAR OF THE DEATH OF LORD KADOORIE. HE WAS ONE OF OUR OUTSTANDING CITIZENS, AND MADE AN ENORMOUS CONTRIBUTION TO HONG KONG BOTH AS A BUSINESSMAN AND BENEFACTOR.
LORD KADOORIE HEADED A DISTINGUISHED FAMILY FIRM WHICH HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN HONG KONG ENTERPRISES FOR MOST OF OUR HISTORY.
HE WAS A BUSINESSMAN OF EXTRAORDINARY VISION AND WAS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND MASSIVE INVESTMENT PROJECTS WHICH WILL SERVE HONG KONG’S INTERESTS WELL INTO THE NEXT CENTURY.
LORD KADOORIE HAD AN UNSHAKEABLE FAITH IN HONG KONG’S FUTURE AND WAS A TIRELESS CHAMPION OF HONG KONG AT HOME AND ABROAD.
HE ALSO LEAVES BEHIND A LEGACY OF GENEROUS CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE COMMUNITY.
ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE GOVERNMENT, I EXTEND MY CONDOLENCES TO LADY KADOORIE AND THE REST OF HIS FAMILY."
/3.........
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 1993
3
CONTRACT SIGNED FOR MA ON SHAN ROAD AND DRAINAGE WORKS
*****
THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT HAS AWARDED A $152 MILLION CONTRACT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF ROAD AND DRAINAGE WORKS IN MA ON SHAN.
THE CONTRACT, WHICH FORMS PART OF THE CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME FOR SHA TIN NEW TOWN, WAS SIGNED TODAY (WEDNESDAY) BY THE DIRECTOR OF TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT, MR CHOW CHE-KING, AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CONTRACTOR, HOI SING CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LIMITED AT A CEREMONY.
IT COMPRISES THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 0.7 KILOMETRE DUAL THREE-LANE CARRIAGEWAY AND A 0.2 KILOMETRE THREE-LANE SINGLE CARRIAGEWAY; LOCAL ROADS; FOOTPATHS AND CYCLE TRACKS; AS WELL AS A GRADE SEPERATED INTERCHANGE.
OTHER WORKS ITEMS INCLUDE A FOOTBRIDGE, FIVE PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLE SUBWAYS, TWO SINGLE SPAN VEHICULAR BRIDGES, TWO BOX CULVERTS, RETAINING WALLS, EARTHWORKS, WATERMAINS, AND ASSOCIATED DRAINAGE AND SEWAGE WORKS.
THE WORKS WILL BEGIN NEXT MONTH FOR COMPLETION IN 30 MONTHS.
- - 0 - -
HEAVY FINES IMPOSED FOR UNREPORTED OVERTIME WORK *****
FACTORY OWNERS MUST COMPLY WITH LABOUR LEGISLATION AND REFRAIN FROM ENGAGING WOMEN IN WORK OUTSIDE THEIR NORMAL PERMITTED PERIOD OF EMPLOYMENT.
THE LAI’S KNITWEAR MANUFACTURING LIMITED AND THE MAXTOR (HONG KONG) LIMITED WERE BOTH GIVEN THE MAXIMUM FINE OF $10,000 BY A KWUN TONG MAGISTRATE FOR ENGAGING 29 AND 52 WOMEN RESPECTIVELY IN UNREPORTED OVERTIME WORK.
ANOTHER TWO COMPANIES, NAMELY THE ZIANG KONG MANUFACTURING COMPANY LIMITED AND THE GOLDEN HORSE GARMENT FACTORY LIMITED, WERE FINED $8,700 AND $8,000 RESPECTIVELY IN THE TSUEN WAN MAGISTRACY FOR EMPLOYING 29 AND 40 WOMEN IN UNREPORTED OVERTIME WORK.
LABOUR OFFICER (PROSECUTIONS), MRS KATHERINE TSANG, SAID TODAY (WEDNESDAY) THE OFFENCES WERE DETECTED BY LABOUR INSPECTORS DURING ROUTINE INSPECTION TO THESE FACTORIES.
IT IS AN OFFENCE UNDER THE WOMEN AND YOUNG PERSONS (INDUSTRY) REGULATIONS FOR AN EMPLOYER TO CHANGE THE PRESCRIBED WORKING HOURS OF WOMEN IN INDUSTRY OR TO ENGAGE THEM IN OVERTIME WORK, WITHOUT NOTIFYING THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT BEFOREHAND, MRS TSANG SAID.
THE LAW ALSO REQUIRES THE EMPLOYER TO DISPLAY IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE IN THE FACTORY A PRESCRIBED NOTICE SETTING OUT THE PERIOD OF EMPLOYMENT, INTERVALS FOR MEALS OR REST, AND REST DAY FOR WOMEN WORKERS.
/"EMPLOYERS SHOULD
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 1993
4
"EMPLOYERS SHOULD STRICTLY ADHERE TO THE PERMISSIBLE HOURS OF WORK SET OUT IN THE PRESCRIBED NOTICE.
"ALSO, YOUNG PERSONS SHOULD NOT BE EMPLOYED TO WORK OVERTIME IN INDUSTRIAL UNDERTAKINGS," SHE ADDED.
ANY EMPLOYER WHO BREACHES THE REGULATIONS IS LIABLE TO A MAXIMUM FINE OF $10,000.
------0-------
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS
* » * ♦ ♦ $ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT REVERSAL OF LAF BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY EFFECT OF LAF TODAY CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,100 -100 2,000 NIL + 200 2,200
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.4 HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE ♦+0.1* 25.8.93 FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.72 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 101.43 3.45
1 MONTH 2.78 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.64 3.63
3 MONTHS 2.83 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 4.75 99.76 3.93
6 MONTHS 12 MONTHS 3.01 PCT 24 MONTHS 3.27 PCT 2508 4.625 100.97 4.15
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 15,742 MN
CLOSED AUGUST 25, 1993
- - 0----------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
ACTING GOVERNOR VISITS OLD AND NEW PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES ... 1
STATEMENT ON U.S. SANCTIONS ON CHINA ......................... 2
SHA INVITES VIEWS ON EQUALITY OF SEXES ....................... 2
CENTRAL RECLAMATION CONTRACT AWARD ........................... 5
WSD REFUTES REPORTS ON EAST RIVER WATER ...................... 6
HIN TIN SWIMMING POOL RE-OPENS ............................... 7
PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR JULY 1993 .......... 7
INDUSTRY BRIEFED ON FILM CENSORSHIP ORDINANCE ................ 10
LAND REGISTRY COMMITTED TO IMPROVING EFFICIENCY .............. 11
ISSUE OF LIGHT BUS DRIVING INSTRUCTOR LICENCES ............... 12
CLOSING DATE FOR LOGO CONTEST DRAWS NEAR ..................... 13
CARGO AREAS REMAIN OPEN DURING HOLIDAYS ...................... 14
BEACH WATER GRADES ........................................... 14
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
18
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 1 -
ACTING GOVERNOR VISITS OLD AND NEW PUBLIC HOUSING ESTATES **********
THE ACTING GOVERNOR, SIR DAVID FORD, MADE A SWEEPING VISIT TO THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT THIS (THURSDAY) AFTERNOON TO LOOK AT DIFFERENT TYPES OF PUBLIC HOUSING IN THE AREA - THOSE UNDER CONSTRUCTION AND THOSE THAT HAVE BEEN HOMES FOR TENANTS FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS.
ON THE CONSTRUCTION SITE AT THE TOP OF MA HANG VALLEY WHERE THE HOUSING AUTHORITY IS BUILDING UNDER PHASE I SIX BLOCKS - FOUR RENTAL WITH 660 UNITS AND TWO HOME OWNERSHIP SCHEME BLOCKS WITH 360 UNITS -SIR DAVID WAS TOLD THAT ON COMPLETION LATER THIS YEAR, MORE THAN 3,600 CLEAREES FROM THE ADJACENT SQUATTER AREA WOULD BE RELOCATED TO THESE FLATS, BUILT TO THE LATEST HARMONY DESIGNS.
CHIEF ARCHITECT, MISS PENNY WARD, EXPLAINED THAT IN DESIGNING THE NEW ESTATE - WHICH TAKES UP A PICTURESQUE CORNER OF STANLEY AND CHUNG HOM KOK - THE HOUSING DEPARTMENT HAD TO INTEGRATE THE HEIGHT OF THE BLOCKS INTO THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT.
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF HOUSING (SQUATTER CONTROL AND CLEARANCE), MR PETER YIP, ALSO TOLD SIR DAVID THAT WITH THE CLEARANCE OF THE MAJORITY OF SQUATTERS FROM THE SECOND AND THIRD PHASE, PART OF THE SITE WOULD BE USED TO PROVIDE ANOTHER FIVE NON-STANDARD HARMONY RURAL DOMESTIC BLOCKS FOR ANOTHER 4,400 PEOPLE.
THE REMAINING SITE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE VALLEY WOULD INCORPORATE A VILLAGE SQUARE THAT WOULD INCLUDE A SHOPPING CENTRE, A CAR PARK BUILDING, AN ESTATE MANAGEMENT OFFICE, THE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE OLD MURRAY HOUSE AND A WATERFRONT PARK.
THE ACTING GOVERNOR WAS PLEASED TO LEARN THAT EFFORTS WOULD BE MADE TO PRESERVE MA HANG’S SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS, WITH THE EXISTING TEMPLES AND THE FOOTPATH PATTERN PRESERVED AS FAR AS POSSIBLE.
AFTER SEEING A NUMBER OF SAMPLE FLATS OF DIFFERENT SIZES AND TOURING THE LANDSCAPED CHINESE GARDEN BETWEEN THE BLOCKS, SIR DAVID LEFT FOR AN OLDER ESTATE IN THE DISTRICT.
BUILT BETWEEN 1966 AND 196fi, THE SIX MARK IV BLOCKS OF SHEK PAI WAN NOW HOUSE ABOUT 12,400 PEOPLE. AND FROM THE ROOF OF ONE OF THE BLOCKS SIR DAVID HAD A PANORAMIC VIEW OF THE EXTENSIVE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT THAT HAD SPRUNG UP AROUND ABERDEEN HARBOUR.
SIR DAVID THEN VISITED THE NEARBY YUE KWONG CHUEN WHICH WAS BUILT BY THE HOUSING SOCIETY IN THE 1960’S.
HE WAS BRIEFED BY THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF HOUSING SOCIETY (ESTATE MANAGEMENT), MRS JULIA WONG, THAT THE ESTATE COMPRISED FIVE BLOCKS, WITH THE FIRST ONE COMPLETED IN DECEMBER 1962. THE ESTATE HOUSES A POPULATION OF 4,614.
ACCOMPANIED BY MRS WONG, HE VISITED A FAMILY IN ONE OF THE BLOCKS, HOY KONG LAU. HE WAS TOLD THAT THIS BUILDING, ORIGINALLY DESIGNED WITH COMMUNAL KITCHEN AND TOILET FACILITIES, HAD BEEN CONVERTED TO SELF-CONTAINED UNITS SINCE 1984.
/THE OTHER .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 2 -
THE OTHER FOUR BUILDINGS HAD SELF-CONTAINED UNITS WHEN THEY WERE FIRST CONSTRUCTED.
NOTING THAT THE ESTATE WAS BUILT ON SLOPE, SIR DAVID WAS PLEASED TO KNOW THAT ANNUAL INSPECTION WAS PERFORMED ON THE SLOPE TO ENSURE SAFETY OF THE RESIDENTS.
-----0------
STATEMENT ON U.S. SANCTIONS ON CHINA
*****
IN RESPONSE TO PRESS ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE IMPACT ON HONG KONG REGARDING THE SANCTIONS IMPOSED BY THE U.S. ON CHINA, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (THURSDAY):
"ON THE BASIS OF INFORMATION SO FAR AVAILABLE, THE SANCTIONS IMPOSED BY THE U.S. ON CHINA WOULD HAVE NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON HONG KONG."
--------0-----------
SHA INVITES VIEWS ON EQUALITY OF SEXES *****
IT HAS LONG BEEN THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY TO PROMOTE EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR MEN AND WOMEN AND TO FOSTER EQUALITY BETWEEN THE SEXES, THE SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, MR MICHAEL SUEN, SAID TODAY (THURSDAY).
RELEASING THE GREEN PAPER ON EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN AND MEN AT A PRESS CONFERENCE, MR SUEN SAID EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED THE BASIS FOR WOMEN AND MEN TO PARTICIPATE EQUALLY IN ALL ASPECTS OF SOCIETY.
THE GREEN PAPER EXAMINES THE POLITICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC SITUATION IN HONG KONG AND THE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE TO WOMEN IN DIFFERENT AREAS OF ACTIVITIES.
"IT ALSO ATTEMPTS TO ESTABLISH WHETHER WOMEN AND MEN PARTICIPATE EQUALLY IN ALL FIELDS AND SETS OUT POSSIBLE MEASURES TO FOSTER EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN HONG KONG.
"THE GREEN PAPER HAS A VERY IMPORTANT EDUCATION VALUE. BY GENERATING PUBLIC DISCUSSION ON THE SUBJECT, THE GREEN PAPER WILL PROMOTE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE QUESTION OF THE STATUS OF WOMEN.
"SINCE THE GREEN PAPER COVERS A WIDE RANGE OF SUBJECTS, THE CONSULTATION PERIOD WILL LAST UNTIL THE END OF THE YEAR TO ALLOW THE PUBLIC TO CAREFULLY CONSIDER THE ISSUES COVERED IN THE DOCUMENT.
/"IN CONJUNCTION .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 3 -
"IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE PUBLICATION OF THE GREEN PAPER, WE INTEND TO LAUNCH A SURVEY ON THE PUBLIC’S PERCEPTION OF EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES AND EQUALITY BETWEEN WOMEN AND MEN; THE PUBLIC’S PERCEPTION OF AREAS OF INEQUALITY, IF ANY, AND THE REASONS FOR SUCH INEQUALITY,” HE SAID.
MR SUEN ADDED THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD NO FIRM VIEWS ON HOW TO UNDERTAKE THIS SURVEY BUT WOULD WORK CLOSELY WITH EXPERTS OUTSIDE THE GOVERNMENT.
"WORK ON THE SURVEY WILL START AS SOON AS POSSIBLE," HE POINTED OUT.
REFERRING TO THE CONTENTS OF THE GREEN PAPER, MR SUEN SAID IN ALMOST ALL AREAS SURVEYED IN THE GREEN PAPER, WOMEN ENJOYED THE SAME OPPORTUNITIES AND RIGHTS AS MEN DID.
"THEY ENJOY THE SAME RIGHTS TO PARTICIPATE IN PUBLIC AFFAIRS; TO TAKE UP EMPLOYMENT, AND TO RECEIVE EDUCATION.
"THEY HAVE THE SAME ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE AND SOCIAL SERVICES."
YET MEN AND WOMEN, MR SUEN OBSERVED, DO NOT PARTICIPATE EQUALLY IN ALL FIELDS.
IN POLITICS, FOR INSTANCE, 5.1 PER CENT OF THE ELECTED MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL AND 9.1 PER CENT OF THE ELECTED DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS ARE FEMALE.
"AND OF THE SOME 690 VILLAGES IN THE NEW TERRITORIES, THERE IS ONLY ONE FEMALE VILLAGE REPRESENTATIVE," MR SUEN SAID.
IN EMPLOYMENT, MR SUEN NOTED THAT WOMEN AND MEN TENDED TO TAKE UP DIFFERENT OCCUPATIONS.
"WOMEN CONCENTRATE IN CLERICAL POSITIONS. THERE IS ALSO A GENDER GAP IN REMUNERATION."
IN EDUCATION, WOMEN AND MEN TEND TO HAVE DIFFERENT ACADEMIC INTERESTS AND PURSUITS.
"THERE IS A HIGHER FEMALE PRESENCE IN ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES SUBJECTS IN THE UNIVERSITIES," MR SUEN ADDED.
REFERRING TO THE DIFFERENCES, MR SUEN EMPHASISED THAT EQUALITY BETWEEN MEN AND WOMEN DID NOT DEPEND ON EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES ALONE.
"BIOLOGICAL DIFFERENCES, PERSONAL PREFERENCES AND SOCIAL FORCES ALL AFFECT THE EXTENT OF EQUALITY BETWEEN MEN AND WOMEN.
"IN EMPLOYMENT, FOR EXAMPLE, IT IS RECOGNISED THAT THERE COULD BE A DEGREE OF ROLE BIAS IN SOCIETY WHICH HAS AFFECTED THE NUMBER OF WOMEN OR MEN PARTICIPATING IN CERTAIN OCCUPATIONS; FOR EXAMPLE, THERE ARE FEWER FEMALE ENGINEERS AND MALE PERSONAL SECRETARIES," MR SUEN SAID.
/’’IN A...........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
"IN A FREE SOCIETY WHICH TREASURES THE RIGHTS OF THE INDIVIDUAL, IT IS NOT FOR GOVERNMENT TO ENGINEER PERSONAL CHOICES NOR TO PRESCRIBE SOCIAL NORMS AND ATTITUDES."
NEVERTHELESS, HE BELIEVED THERE WERE A NUMBER OF POSSIBLE MEASURES TO FOSTER EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN HONG KONG.
THEY INCLUDED STEPPING UP PUBLIC EDUCATION, DEVELOPING A CHARTER FOR WOMEN, INSTITUTING LEGISLATIVE CONTROL, EXTENDING THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF ALL FORMS OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN (CEDAW) TO HONG KONG, AND SETTING UP A WOMEN’S COMMISSION.
"EVERY IMPROVEMENT MEASURE INEVITABLY CARRIES WITH IT PARTICULAR IMPLICATIONS WHICH WILL HAVE A DIRECT EFFECT ON MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY,” MR SUEN SAID.
CITING LEGISLATIVE CONTROL AS AN EXAMPLE, MR SUEN SAID INTRODUCING EQUAL PAY AND ANTI-SEX DISCRIMINATION LEGISLATION WOULD PROVIDE AN AVENUE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE SUFFERED FROM DISCRIMINATION TO SEEK REDRESS.
BUT SUCH LEGISLATION WOULD ALSO INVOLVE A CERTAIN DEGREE OF GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION IN THE OPERATION OF INDIVIDUAL EMPLOYERS.
"TO MEET THE STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS, EMPLOYERS MIGHT BE REQUIRED TO DEVELOP A FORMAL SYSTEM OF RECRUITMENT AND PROMOTION PROCEDURES. SOME SMALL BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS MIGHT FIND IT ONEROUS TO COMPLY WITH THE LEGISLATION," MR SUEN SAID.
ON THE EXTENSION OF CEDAW TO HONG KONG, MR SUEN POINTED OUT THAT CEDAW OBLIGED STATES PARTIES TO TAKE APPROPRIATE STEPS TO ELIMINATE UNLAWFUL DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN BY PUBLIC AND PRIVATE BODIES.
"THE EXTENSION WOULD IMPOSE WIDE-RANGING OBLIGATIONS ON HONG KONG. SOME FORM OF EQUAL PAY OR ANTI-SEX DISCRIMINATION LEGISLATION WHICH APPLY TO BOTH THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS WOULD ALMOST CERTAINLY BE REQUIRED," MR SUEN EXPLAINED.
AN ORGANISATION TO CO-ORDINATE THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CEDAW WOULD ALSO NEED TO BE ESTABLISHED.
AS FOR THE SETTING UP OF A WOMEN’S COMMISSION, THIS COULD HAVE DIFFERENT MODES OF OPERATION AND PROVIDE A FOCAL POINT FOR DISCUSSING WOMEN’S MATTERS.
"SUCH A COMMISSION WOULD REQUIRE EXECUTIVE SUPPORT IN ORDER TO FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY," MR SUEN ADDED.
EMPHASISING THAT THE STATUS OF WOMEN WILL BE ULTIMATELY DETERMINED BY THE ATTITUDES AND PERCEPTIONS OF COMMUNITY MEMBERS, MR SUEN SAID IT WAS THEREFORE IMPERATIVE THAT THE PUBLIC SHOULD EXPRESS THE VIEWS ON WHETHER ACTION WAS NEEDED TO FURTHER EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES AND IF SO, THE ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN.
/INVITING THE .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
5
INVITING THE PUBLIC TO EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS, MR SUEN SAID: ’’GOVERNMENT HAS AN OPEN MIND ON THE MEASURES TO ENHANCE EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES. THE PUBLIC’S VIEWS WOULD BE CRUCIAL IN GUIDING GOVERNMENT TO CHART OUT THE FUTURE COURSE OF ACTION ON THIS IMPORTANT MATTER.”
COPIES OF THE GREEN PAPER ARE NOW AVAILABLE FROM ALL DISTRICT OFFICES. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO COMMENT ON THE GREEN PAPER ARE INVITED TO WRITE TO -
THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION 31ST FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE, 130 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG.
------0-----------
CENTRAL RECLAMATION CONTRACT AWARD
ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT, THE MASS TRANSIT RAILWAY CORPORATION (MTRC) HAS TODAY (THURSDAY) ACCEPTED A $1.72 BILLION TENDER FROM THE DRAGAGES/PENTA/BSG JOINT VENTURE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE FIRST PHASE OF THE CENTRAL RECLAMATION.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID: ’’THE CONTRACT PRICE IS WITHIN THE GOVERNMENT’S ORIGINAL PROJECT ESTIMATE. WORK ON THIS 48-MONTH CONTRACT IS EXPECTED TO START IN EARLY SEPTEMBER.”
THE RECLAMATION WILL PROVIDE NEW LAND FOR GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE CENTRAL DISTRICT. IT WILL ALSO INCLUDE A SITE FOR THE AIRPORT RAILWAY’S TERMINUS STATION FOR CENTRAL, WHICH WILL MAKE IT AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME.
BECAUSE OF THE PROJECT’S CONNECTION WITH THE AIRPORT RAILWAY, THE MTRC HAS BEEN ENTRUSTED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO AWARD THE CONTRACT AND TO MANAGE THE EXECUTION OF THE WORKS.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID: ’’THE AWARD OF THIS CONTRACT BRINGS THE NUMBER OF GOVERNMENT CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS AWARDED ON THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME (ACP) TO 25, WITH A TOTAL VALUE OF OVER $28.5 BILLION. THIS AMOUNTS TO APPROXIMATELY 68 PER CENT BY VALUE OF ALL THE GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS ON THE ACP.
’’TOGETHER WITH FOUR CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS WORTH $9.7 BILLION AWARDED BY THE PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY, THE TOTAL VALUE OF CONTRACTS AWARDED ON THE ACP IS SOME $38.5 BILLION.
’’THE DRAGAGES-PENTA-BSG JOINT VENTURE’S PRICE OF $1.72 BILLION (MONEY OF THE DAY) WAS THE LOWEST SUBMITTED BY TWO SHORTLISTED TENDERERS FOR THE CENTRAL RECLAMATION PHASE ONE CONTRACT, FOLLOWING DISCUSSIONS WITH THE MTRC AND THE GOVERNMENT. THE TWO CONSORTIA WERE SHORTLISTED BECAUSE THEY SUBMITTED THE LOWEST PRICES WHEN TENDERS FOR THE CONTRACT WERE FIRST RETURNED BY SIX TENDERERS IN SEPTEMBER 1992.
/"THE CONTRACT .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 6
"THE CONTRACT PRICE IS WITHIN BUDGET ESTIMATES, DESPITE SOME INEVITABLE INCREASES IN COSTS WHICH HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY THE DELAY IN MAKING THE CONTRACT AWARD."
PHASE ONE OF THE CENTRAL RECLAMATION COMPRISES A 20-HECTARE AREA FROM RUMSEY STREET TO BLAKE PIER, AND INCLUDES SIX HECTARES FOR THE AIRPORT RAILWAY STATION SITE. IT FORMS THE WESTERN SECTION OF THE CENTRAL AND WANCHAI RECLAMATION, LATER PHASES OF WHICH STRETCH EASTWARD TO CAUSEWAY BAY.
THE DRAGAGES-PENTA-BSG JOINT VENTURE COMPRISES DRAGAGES ET TRAVAUX PUBLICS OF FRANCE, PENTA OCEAN CONSTRUCTION CO LTD OF JAPAN, AND BACHY SOLETANCHE GROUP OF FRANCE.
--------0-----------
WSD REFUTES REPORTS ON EAST RIVER WATER *****
THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT HAS DISMISSED THE REPORTS PUBLISHED IN SOME NEWSPAPERS TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT COMPLAINTS OF DISCOLOURATION OF WATER LODGED BY SOME CONSUMERS IN TSING YI PUBLIC HOUING ESTATES MIGHT BE DUE TO POOR QUALITY OF THE RAW WATER FROM EAST RIVER AND THE PURIFICATION PROCESS OF THE RAW WATER IN SHENZHEN.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE REPORTS WERE TOTALLY WRONG AND MISLEADING.
THE SPOKESMAN FURTHER POINTED OUT THAT ALL THE RAW WATER FROM EAST RIVER WAS TREATED AND PURIFIED IN THE VARIOUS TREATMENT WORKS IN HONG KONG AND THAT THERE WAS NO PURIFICATION OF THE RAW WATER IN SHENZHEN BEFORE IT WAS TRANSFERRED TO THE TERRITORY.
"BESIDES, THE ADDITION OF MANGANESE TO WATER FOR PURIFICATION PURPOSES, AS REPORTED IN THE NEWSPAPERS, HAS NEVER BEEN A PRACTICE IN THE WATER SUPPY INDUSTRY ALL OVER THE WORLD," HE NOTED.
THE SPOKESMAN WENT ON TO SAY THAT THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT HAD RECEIVED A TOTAL OF ONLY FIVE COMPLAINTS ABOUT DISCOLOURED WATER FROM THE RESIDENTS OF CHEUNG ON ESTATE AS WELL AS CHING TAI AND CHING NGA COURTS IN TSING YI IN THE PAST FEW DAYS.
"THESE COMPLAINTS HAVE ALL BEEN INVESTIGATED AND FOUND TO BE ISOLATED CASES. TESTS ON THE WATER SAMPLES COLLECTED FROM THE COMPLAINANTS’ PREMISES HAVE INDICATED THAT MOST LIKELY THE DISCOLOURATION HAS BEEN CAUSED BY THE RUSTY PIPES WITHIN THE CONSUMER’S BUILDING," HE ADDED.
"IF ANYONE IS IN DOUBT ABOUT THE QUALITY OF THE WATER, HE SHOULD REPORT THIS TO THE WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT’S TECHNICAL COMPLAINTS CENTRE SO THAT PROPER INVESTIGATIONS CAN BE MADE BY THE DEPARTMENT," THE SPOKESMAN CONCLUDED.
THE TELEPHONE NUMBERS OF THE TECHNICAL COMPLAINTS CENTRE ARE 811 0788 FOR HONG KONG AND OUTLYING ISLANDS AND 396 0210 FOR KOWLOON AND THE NEW TERRITORIES.
--------0 - -
/7........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
HIN TIN SWIMMING POOL RE-OPENS *****
THE HIN TIN PUBLIC SWIMMING POOL IN SHA TIN WILL BE RE-OPENED TOMORROW (FRIDAY).
THE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT HAD CONDUCTED A THOROUGH INSPECTION OF THE POOL’S STRUCTURE, PIPINGS AND CONNECTIONS, FILTRATION AND DISINFECTION SYSTEM, AND OTHER ENGINEERING ASPECTS, AND FOUND THEM IN ORDER. •*
SUBSEQUENTLY, ARRANGEMENT WAS MADE FOR TESTING OF WATER SAMPLES TAKEN FROM THE SWIMMING POOL.
SINCE RESULTS OF TESTS ON THESE SAMPLES HAD BEEN FOUND TO BE SATISFACTORY, THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAS RECOMMENDED THAT THE POOL COULD BE RE-OPENED TO THE PUBLIC.
-------------0-----------------
I
PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR JULY 1993
*****
IN JULY 1993, RE-EXPORTS CONTINUED TO SHOW A STRONG GROWTH BUT DOMESTIC EXPORTS WERE STILL SLACK. IMPORTS RECORDED A NOTABLE INCREASE.
THESE ARE SHOWN IN THE PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE RELEASED TODAY (THURSDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS IN JULY 1993 ROSE BY $15,721 MILLION OR 26% OVER A YEAR EARLIER TO $76,503 MILLION. THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS DECREASED MARGINALLY BY $11 MILLION OR 0.1% TO $21,369 MILLION.
TAKING RE-EXPORTS AND DOMESTIC EXPORTS TOGETHER, THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS IN JULY 1993 GREW BY $15,710 MILLION OR 19% OVER A YEAR EARLIER TO $97,872 MILLION.
OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THE VALUE OF IMPORTS INCREASED BY $13,725 MILLION OR 16% TO $98,690 MILLION.
AS THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS WAS SMALLER THAN THAT OF TOTAL IMPORTS, A VISIBLE TRADE DEFICIT OF $818 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 0.8% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, WAS RECORDED IN JULY 1993.
THIS WAS SMALLER THAN THE DEFICIT OF $2,804 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 3.3% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, RECORDED IN JULY 1992.
/IN THE ........
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 8
IN THE FIRST SEVEN MONTHS OF 1993, THE VALUE OF RE-EXPORTS AMOUNTED TO $452,292 MILLION, WHICH WAS $82,278 MILLION OR 22% HIGHER THAN A YEAR EARLIER.
THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS, AT $124,551 MILLION, WAS $3,770 MILLION OR 2.9% LOWER THAN THAT IN THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
TAKING RE-EXPORTS AND DOMESTIC EXPORTS TOGETHER, THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS IN THE FIRST SEVEN MONTHS OF 1993, AT $576,843 MILLION, WAS $78,508 MILLION OR 16% HIGHER THAN A YEAR EARLIER.
THE VALUE OF IMPORTS INCREASED BY $77,804 MILLION OR 15% TO $605,417 MILLION.
A TRADE DEFICIT OF $28,573 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 4.7% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, WAS RECORDED IN THE FIRST SEVEN MONTHS OF 1993. THIS COMPARED WITH A TRADE DEFICIT OF $29,277 MILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 5.5% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, RECORDED A YEAR EARLIER.
COMMENTING ON THE LATEST TRADE FIGURES, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN POINTED OUT THAT THE YEAR-ON-YEAR GROWTH RATE OF RE-EXPORTS REBOUNDED TO 26% IN JULY, FROM 13% IN JUNE.
THE DECLINE TN DOMESTIC EXPORTS ALSO MODERATED MARKEDLY.
THIS OVERALL EXPORT PERFORMANCE RESEMBLED MORE CLOSELY THAT IN THE FIRST FOUR MONTHS OF THIS YEAR, AND WAS EVEN BETTER THAN THAT IN MAY.
IT THUS APPEARED THAT THE SETBACK IN JUNE WAS ONLY TEMPORARY, MAINLY DISRUPTED BY THE HIGH BASE OF COMPARISON IN JUNE LAST YEAR.
THE SHARE OF RE-EXPORTS IN THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS ROSE FURTHER, FROM 74% IN THE FIRST SEVEN MONTHS OF 1992 TO 78% IN THE FIRST SEVEN MONTHS OF 1993, REFLECTING THE ONGOING STRUCTURAL SHIFT FROM DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO RE-EXPORTS. OVER THE SAME PERIOD, THE VALUE OF RETAINED IMPORTS GREW BY 5.4%.
A MORE DETAILED ANALYSIS OF HONG KONG’S EXTERNAL TRADE IN JULY 1993, BY COMMODITY AND COUNTRY, WILL BE RELEASED IN MID-SEPTEMBER.
/PROVISIONAL FIGURES .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
9 -
PROVISIONAL FIGURES OF EXTERNAL TRADE FOR JULY 1993
MERCHANDISE: Domestic Exports Re-exports Total Exports Imports Trade balance
$21,369 million $76,503 million $97,872 million $98,690 million
-$818 million
COMPARATIVE FIGURES
Latest 3 months May 93 to Jul 93 HKS Mn. May 92 to Jul 92 HKS Mn. Change
HKS Mn. X
Domestic Exports 58,027 61,897 -3,870 -6.3
(X of Total Exports) (21.6X) (25.9X)
Re-exports 210,479 177,072 +33,407 + 18.9
Total Exports 268,507 238,969 +29,537 + 12.4
Imports 278,709 251,105 +27,604 + 11.0
Trade balance -10,202 -12,136 +1,934
July July Change
Same month last year 1993 1992
HKS Mn. HKS Mn. HKS Mn. X
Domestic Exports 21,369 21,380 . -11 ’ -0.1
(X of Total Exports) (21. 8X) (26.0X)
Re-exports 76,503 60,782 +15,721 + 25.9
Total Exports 97,872 82,162 ♦15,710 + 19.1
Imports 98,690 84,966 +13,725 + 16.2
Trade balance -818 -2,804 + 1,986
July June Change
Last month 1993 1993
HKS Mn. HKS Mn. HKS Mn. X
Domestic Exports 21,369 18,509 +2,860 + 15.5
(X of Total Exports) (21.8X) (21.6X)
Re-exports 7 6,503 67,041 +9,462 + 14.1
Total Exports 97,872 85,551 +12,321 + 14.4
Imports 98,690 89,295 +9,396 + 10.5
Trade balance -818 -3,744 +2,926
Jan-Jul Jan-Jul Change
Calendar year to-date 1993 1992
HKS Mn. HKS Mn. HKS Mn. X
Domestic Exports 124,551 128,321 -3,770 -2.9
(X of Total Exports) (21.6X) (25.8X)
Re-exports 452,292 370,014 +82,278 + 22.2
Total Exports 576,843 498,335 +78,508 + 15.8
Imports 605,417 527,612 +77,804 + 14.7
Trade balance -28,573 -29,277 + 704
Aug 92 to Aug 91 to Change
Last 12 months Jul 93 Jul 92
HKS Mn. HKS Mn. HKS Mn. X
Domestic Exports 230,353 233,264 -2,910 -1.2
(X of Total Exports) (23.OX) (27.2X)
Re-exports 773,108 623,234 +149,874 + 24.0
Total Exports 1,003,461 856,498 +146,963 + 17.2
Imports 1,033,099 878,291 ♦154,809 + 17.6
Trade balance -29,638 -21,793 -7,845
26 August 1993 CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT
-------0----------
/IO .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
10
INDUSTRY BRIEFED ON FILM CENSORSHIP ORDINANCE
*****
OFFICIALS OF THE TELEVISION AND ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING AUTHORITY (TELA) HAVE MET REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE FILM AND VIDEO INDUSTRY TO DISCUSS THE OPERATION OF THE FILM CENSORSHIP (AMENDMENT) ORDINANCE, WHICH WILL COME INTO EFFECT ON JANUARY 14, NEXT YEAR, AFTER A GRACE PERIOD OF SIX MONTHS TO ALLOW THE FILM AND VIDEO INDUSTRY SUFFICIENT TIME TO COMPLY WITH THE NEW STATUTORY REQUIRMENTS.
MEMBERS OF THE MOTION PICTURES INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION AND THE HONG KONG VIDEO INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION REPRESENTING FILM AND VIDEO DISTRIBUTORS AND VIDEO SHOP OPERATORS ATTENDED THE BRIEFING WHICH WAS HELD YESTERDAY (WEDNESDAY).
A SPOKESMAN FOR TELA SAID: "UNDER THE AMENDMENT ORDINANCE, WHEN A FILM IS APPROVED FOR EXHIBITION BY THE FILM CENSORSHIP AUTHORITY, THE FILM IS DEEMED TO BE APPROVED FOR PUBLICATION IN THE FORM OF VIDEOTAPE AND LASERDISC.
"PUBLICATION OF A VIDEOTAPE OR LASERDISC OF A CATEGORY 3 FILM TO A MINOR IS AN OFFENCE AND THE MAXIMUM PENALTY ON CONVICTION IS A FINE OF $200,000 AND IMPRISONMENT FOR 12 MONTHS.
"A CIRCULAR LETTER HAS BEEN ISSUED BY TELA TO ALL FILM DISTRIBUTORS AND VIDEO SHOP, OPERATORS EXPLAINING THE PROVISIONS IN THE NEW LEGISLATION."
TO PUBLICISE THIS NEW SCHEME FOR CONTROLLING VIDEOTAPES AND LASERDICS, A TELEVISION ANNOUNCEMENT IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST (API) WILL ALSO BE SCREENED.
"LEAFLETS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO STUDENTS THROUGH SCHOOLS AND POSTERS WILL BE GIVEN TO ALL VIDEO SHOPS FOR DISPLAY.
"GUIDELINES ON PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES TO BE TAKEN BY VIDEO SHOP OPERATORS TO AVOID VIOLATION OF THE LEGISLATION WILL ALSO BE DISTRIBUTED TO ALL VIDEO SHOPS AFTER CONSULTATION WITH THE HONG KONG VIDEO INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION," THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
HE EMPHASISED THAT STRICT ENFORCEMENT ACTION AGAINST ANY CONTRAVENTION OF THE AMENDMENT ORDINANCE WILL START PROMPTLY ON JANUARY 14, 1994.
--------0 - -
/Il .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 11 -
LAND REGISTRY COMMITTED TO IMPROVING EFFICIENCY » » ♦ ♦ »
THE LAND REGISTRY HAS EMBARKED ON A NUMBER OF EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE BETTER SERVICES TO ITS CUSTOMERS, ACCORDING TO THE LAND REGISTRAR, MR KENNETH PANG.
THESE INCLUDE THE MICROFILMING AND COMPUTERISATION PROJECTS FOR EIGHT NEW TERRITORIES DISTRICT LAND REGISTRIES.
MR PANG WAS SPEAKING AT A Y’S MEN'S CLUB LUNCHEON ABOUT THE IMPROVEMENT PLANS OF THE LAND REGISTRY, ITS TRADING FUND SCHEME AND PERFORMANCE PLEDGES TODAY (THURSDAY).
HE SAID THE MICROFILMING PROJECT WOULD START IN DECEMBER THIS YEAR AND THE COMPUTERISATION PROJECT IN MID-1994.
ANOTHER IMPORTANT CAPITAL PROJECT, MR PANG SAID, WAS TO PROVIDE CUSTOMERS WITH DIRECT ACCESS TO THE REGISTRY’S COMPUTERISED LAND REGISTER.
"THIS WILL ENABLE CUSTOMERS TO MAKE ON-LINE SEARCHES OF LAND RECORDS THROUGH COMPUTER TERMINALS AT THEIR OWN OFFICES. THIS NEW SERVICE IS EXPECTED TO BE AVAILABLE IN THE SECOND HALF OF NEXT YEAR," HE SAID.
THE LAND REGISTRY IS ONE OF THE FIRST GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS OPERATING ON A TRADING FUND - A FINANCIAL AND ACCOUNTING ARRANGEMENT DESIGNED TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF SERVICES.
"THE REGISTRY IS REQUIRED TO FINANCE ITS LIABILITIES AND OPERATING EXPENSES OUT OF THE INCOME RECEIVED FROM THE PROVISION OF SERVICES WHICH IS CREDITED TO THE TRADING FUND RATHER THAN THE GOVERNMENT’S GENERAL REVENUE ACCOUNT.
"IT IS EXPECTED TO BE SELF-FINANCING, TO BE ABLE TO BALANCE INCOME AND EXPENDITURE, AND TO PROVIDE A REASONABLE RETURN ON CAPITAL INVESTMENT.
"IT IS ALLOWED TO ESTABLISH RESERVES OUT OF SURPLUS SO AS TO INVEST IN EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS SUCH AS COMPUTERISATION AND OFFICE AUTOMATION," HE SAID.
TO COINCIDE WITH THE START OF THE TRADING FUND, THE REGISTRY HAS RECENTLY LAUNCHED ITS PERFORMANCE PLEDGES, SETTING OUT IN SPECIFIC TERMS ITS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS OF SERVICES TO ITS CUSTOMERS.
"OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS, WE HAVE PROCESSED 630,000 LAND DOCUMENTS SUBMITTED FOR REGISTRATION, AND DEALT WITH 3.8 MILLION SEARCHES OF LAND RECORDS.
"IN OTHER WORDS, FOR EACH WORKING DAY, WE HAVE TO REGISTER 2,300 DEEDS AND HANDLE 14,000 SEARCHES."
NOTWITHSTANDING THE EVER-INCREASING WORKLOAD, THE REGISTRY HAS PLEDGED TO COMPLETE REGISTRATION OF LAND DOCUMENTS WITHIN FIVE WEEKS AND TO PROVIDE COMPUTER-PRINTOUTS OR COPIES OF LAND RECORDS WITHIN 30 MINUTES, HE SAID.
------0-------
/12......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 12
ISSUE OF LIGHT BUS DRIVING INSTRUCTOR LICENCES ♦ * * » *
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL SHORTLY INVITE APPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE LIGHT BUS DRIVING INSTRUCTOR LICENCES.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THIS EXERCISE COMPRISED TWO PHASES, WITH PHASE I STARTING ON SEPTEMBER 1.
’’UNDER THIS PHASE, THOSE WHO HAVE ALREADY BEEN ENGAGED IN PROVIDING PUBLIC AND PRIVATE LIGHT BUS DRIVING INSTRUCTION WILL BE INVITED BY LETTERS TO APPLY,’’ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
IN A SURVEY CONDUCTED IN 1991, A TOTAL OF 126 PROSPECTIVE DRIVING INSTRUCTORS WERE FOUND PRACTISING. THEY ARE REQUIRED TO RETURN THEIR DULY COMPLETED APPLICATIONS TO THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT BY REGISTERED POST BEFORE SEPTEMBER 15 THIS YEAR.
’’OPPORTUNITY WILL BE AVAILABLE TO ALL WHO ARE ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR A PUBLIC AND PRIVATE LIGHT BUS DRIVING LICENCES. DETAILS OF PHASE II OF THE PROGRAMME WILL BE ANNOUNCED SOME TIME IN APRIL 1994,” THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
”IF THE INITIAL NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS TURNS OUT TO BE VERY LARGE, THE APPLICANTS MAY HAVE TO WAIT FOR THEIR TURN TO BE PROCESSED,” HE ADDED.
APPLICANTS MUST HOLD A VALID DRIVING LICENCE TO DRIVE THE CLASS OF VEHICLE IN RESPECT OF WHICH THEIR APPLICATIONS FOR A DRIVING INSTRUCTOR’S LICENCE IS MADE, AND HAVE HELD SUCH A DRIVING LICENCE FOR A PERIOD OF AT LEAST THREE YEARS.
APPLICANTS MUST ALSO HAVE GOOD DRIVING SKILL, BE FULLY CONVERSANT WITH THE ROAD TRAFFIC LEGISLATION AND DRIVING INSTRUCTION RULES.
THEY MUST NOT BE CONVICTED OF ANY SERIOUS OFFENCES, NAMELY CAUSING DEATH BY RECKLESS DRIVING OR DRIVING A MOTOR VEHICLE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRINK OR DRUGS, DURING THE FIVE YEARS PRECEDING THEIR APPLICATIONS.
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS WILL BE REQUIRED TO SIT FOR A WRITTEN TEST, ATTEND AN INTERVIEW FOLLOWED BY A ROAD TEST.
ALL THREE PARTS OF THE TEST MUST BE COMPLETED WITHIN THREE YEARS. IRRESPECTIVE OF WHICH PART OF THE TEST, A CANDIDATE WHO HAS FAILED FOR THREE TIMES WOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO APPLY FOR FURTHER TEST.
ELIGIBLE CANDIDATES WHO DO NOT RESPOND TO INVITATION TO SUBMIT THEIR APPLICATIONS WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED PERIOD WOULD BE TREATED AS GIVING UP THEIR RIGHT TO APPLY.
THE MOVE TO LICENSE DRIVING INSTRUCTORS FOR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE LIGHT BUSES IS TO PAVE WAY FOR ENFORCEMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT THAT DRIVING INSTRUCTIONS SHOULD BE GIVEN BY LICENSED DRIVING INSTRUCTORS.
- - 0---------
/13 .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 13 -
CLOSING DATE FOR LOGO CONTEST DRAWS NEAR
*****
ENTRIES FOR THE LOGO DESIGN COMPETITION "HERITAGE IN GRAPHICS” ORGANISED BY THE LORD WILSON HERITAGE TRUST WILL CLOSE NEXT TUESDAY (AUGUST 31).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE OF THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH SAID TODAY (THURSDAY) MORE THAN 170 ENTRIES HAD BEEN RECEIVED FOR THE COMPETITION.
THE LORD WILSON HERITAGE TRUST WAS SET UP UNDER THE LAW IN LATE 1992 WITH AIMS TO PRESERVE AND PROMOTE HONG KONG’S HERITAGE.
IT IS HOPED THAT THE COMPETITION WILL AROUSE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THIS NEW BODY FOR HERITAGE PRESERVATION.
THE COMPETITION IS A TERRITORY-WIDE EVENT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. PARTICIPANTS MAY SUBMIT ANY NUMBER OF ENTRIES.
ENTRIES SHOULD BE ARTWORK OF A4-SIZE PAPER, SUITABLE FOR USE ON LETTERHEADS, STATIONERY, HOARDING, TIES AND BADGES, AND SO ON.
.THERE SHOULD BE TWO VERSIONS OF DESIGN IN ALL ENTRIES, ONE IN BLACK AND WHITE AND THE OTHER IN COLOUR(S).
ENTRIES MUST BE SUBMITTED TOGETHER WITH COMPLETED ENTRY FORMS TO THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE, 136 NATHAN ROAD, TSIM SHA TSUI, KOWLOON BY THE CLOSING DATE.
THE ENTRY FORM SHOULD BE PLACED IN A SEALED ENVELOPE STUCK TO THE BACK OF THE ENTRY.
THE COMPETITION WILL BE JUDGED IN TWO STAGES.
FOR STAGE I, A PANEL COMPRISING THREE EXPERTS IN THE FIELD OF DESIGN WILL SHORTLIST THE ENTRIES DOWN TO FIVE FINALISTS.
FOR STAGE II, A PANEL COMPRISING TWO REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE BOARD AND COUNCIL OF THE LORD WILSON HERITAGE TRUST PLUS THE CHAIRMAN OF STAGE I WILL SELECT A WINNER AMONG THE FIVE SHORTLISTED DESIGNS, WHICH MAY BE USED AS THE LOGO OF THE TRUST.
THE WINNER OF THE COMPETITION WILL RECEIVE $5,000 IN CASH AND A CERTIFICATE.
THERE WILL ALSO BE FOUR MERIT PRIZES EACH OF $1,000 IN CASH AND A CERTIFICATE AS WELL.
ENTRY FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE ANTIQUITIES AND MONUMENTS OFFICE, DISTRICT OFFICES, PUBLIC LIBRARIES AND MUSEUMS.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 721 2326.
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/14 .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 14
CARGO AREAS REMAIN OPEN DURING HOLIDAYS
*****
THE MARINE DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TODAY (THURSDAY) THAT ALL PUBLIC CARGO WORKING AREAS WOULD REMAIN OPEN FROM 7 AM TO 9 PM ON THE PUBLIC HOLIDAYS THIS SATURDAY (AUGUST 28) AND MONDAY (AUGUST 30).
THE WORKING AREAS ARE AT THE WESTERN DISTRICT, SHEUNG V.’AN, WA . CHAI, CHAI WAN, SHAM SHUI PO, YAU MA TEI, KWUN TONG, CHA KWO LING, TSUEN WAN AND RAMBLER CHANNEL.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID: ’’THE TUEN MUN PUBLIC WATERFRONT WILL ALSO BE OPEN FROM 7 AM TO 9 PM ON THE TWO DAYS.
"DURING THE HOLIDAY PERIOD, THE MACAU FERRY TERMINAL WILL REMAIN OPEN 24 HOURS DAILY, AND THE CHINA FERRY TERMINAL IN TSIM SHA TSUI WILL BE OPEN AS NORMAL BETWEEN 6 AM AND 10 PM DAILY."
ON SUNDAY (AUGUST 29), THE VICTORIA MARINE OFFICE IN ROOM 314 ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF HARBOUR BUILDING AT 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, WILL BE OPEN FROM 9 AM TO 11 AM TO FACILITATE ENTRY AND OUTWARD CLEARANCE FOR SHIPS ONLY.
AS FOR THE PORT FORMALITIES OFFICE IN ROOM 318 IN HARBOUR BUILDING, IT WILL BE OPEN ON SUNDAY (AUGUST 29) FROM 9 AM TO 11 AM TO HANDLE APPLICATIONS FOR PERMITS NORMALLY ISSUED BY THE OFFICE.
-----0-----
BEACH WATER GRADES
*****
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPARTMENT TODAY (THURSDAY) ANNOUNCED GRADES OF THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF ALL BATHING BEACHES IN HONG KONG.
THE PURPOSE IS TO INFORM SWIMMERS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC ABOUT THE STATE OF BACTERIOLOGICAL POLLUTION AT VARIOUS BEACHES.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT SAID THE GRADING WOULD BE ANNOUNCED BIWEEKLY DURING THE BATHING SEASON TO COINCIDE WITH THE FREQUENCY AT WHICH BEACH WATERS WAS USUALLY SAMPLED.
THE GRADING IS BASED ON THE MOST RECENT E.COL1 DATA OBTAINED BY THE DEPARTMENT IN ITS ROUTINE MONITORING PROGRAMME.
AS WITH LAST YEAR, THE GRADING ALSO INCLUDES AN ESTIMATE OF THE RISK OF SUFFERING SOME MINOR SKIN DISEASES OR GASTROINTESTINAL COMPLAINTS AS A RESULT OF SWIMMING AT A BEACH THAT HAS SOME DEGREE OF POLLUTION.
THE ESTIMATE IS BASED ON A VERY LARGE BODY OF STATISTICAL INFORMATION GATHERED IN HONG KONG IN RECENT BATHING SEASONS.
/THE GRADING ......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 15 -
THE GRADING OF SOME BEACHES MAY VARY DURING THE SUMMER. THIS REPRESENTS A NATURAL FLUCTUATION IN THE BACTERIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF BATHING WATER IN MOST CASES, AS RAIN AND TIDES BRING MORE OR LESS POLLUTION TO THE BEACHES.
HOWEVER, THE GRADES GIVE A GOOD GENERAL PICTURE OF THE WATER QUALITY AT BATHING BEACHES AT THE TIME OF REPORTING AND FORM THE BEST AVAILABLE FORECAST FOR THE IMMEDIATE FUTURE.
"BEACHES WITH HIGHLY DEVELOPED HINTERLANDS ARE LIKELY TO BE MORE POLLUTED THAN THE GRADES SUGGEST DURING AND AFTER HEAVY RAIN.
"BATHERS SHOULD AVOID SUCH BEACHES FOR TWO OR THREE DAYS AFTER A STORM, LONGER IF THE WEATHER REMAINS OVERCAST OR LESS IF THERE IS STRONG SUNSHINE," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
THE SYSTEM FOR GRADING BEACH WATER QUALITY IS:
* GRADE "1” INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS GOOD. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 24 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED RISK OF MINOR ILLNESS TO SWIMMERS IS UNDETECTABLE.
* GRADE "2" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS FAIR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 180 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS NO MORE THAN 10 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
* GRADE "3" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS POOR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS NO MORE THAN 610 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS NO MORE THAN 15 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
* GRADE "4" INDICATES THAT THE WATER QUALITY IS VERY POOR. THE E. COLI COUNT IS MORE THAN 610 PER 100 MILLILITRES AT EACH BEACH SO GRADED, AND THE EXPECTED HEALTH RISK IS MORE THAN 15 CASES OF MINOR ILLNESS PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
THE DECISION ON WHETHER OR NOT TO CLOSE A BEACH TO SWIMMERS IS BASED ON A JUDGMENT OF WHAT DEGREE OF POLLUTION IS ACCEPTABLE.
NORMALLY, THE CLOSURE OF A BEACH WOULD ONLY BE CONSIDERED BY THE URBAN COUNCIL OR REGIONAL COUNCIL IF A GRADE "4" OCCURRED REPEATEDLY, SO THAT THE AVERAGE HEALTH RISK OVER THE BATHING SEASON EXCEEDED 15 CASES PER 1,000 SWIMMERS.
AT PRESENT, TWO BATHING BEACHES, CASTLE PEAK AND OLD CAFETERIA, HAVE BEEN DECLARED UNSUITABLE FOR SWIMMING, BASED ON THE WATER QUALITY DURING PAST SEASONS.
THEY ARE POLLUTED BY FAECAL WASTE. THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED NOT TO SWIM AT THE TWO BEACHES.
IN ADDITION, ROCKY BAY BEACH HAS BEEN CLOSED FOR SWIMMING BY THE URBAN COUNCIL. THE THREE BEACHES ARE IDENTIFIED BY AN "X" IN THE FOLLOWING LIST.
/THE GRADES .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 16 -
THE GRADES ON THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF VARIOUS BEACHES IN HONG KONG TODAY ARE LISTED BELOW:
BEACH PREVIOUS GRADING PRESENT GRADING
(AS AT 12.8.93) (AS AT 26.8.93)
HONG KONG SOUTH
BIG WAVE BAY 2 3
CHUNG HOM KOK 1 1
DEEP WATER BAY 2 2
HAIRPIN 2 3
MIDDLE BAY 2 2
REPULSE BAY 1 1
SHEK 0 3 3
SOUTH BAY 1 1
ST. STEPHEN’S 1 1
TURTLE COVE 2 2
STANLEY MAIN 2 2
ROCKY BAY X X
TO TEI WAN* 2 2
TUEN MUN DISTRICT
OLD CAFETERIA X X
NEW CAFETERIA 3 3
CASTLE PEAK X X
KADOORIE 4 3
BUTTERFLY 3 4
SAI KUNG DISTRICT
CAMPERS 1 1
CLEAR WATER BAY 1ST BEACH 1 1
CLEAR WATER BAY 2ND BEACH 1 2
HAP MUN BAY 1 1
KTU TSUI 1 1
PAK SHA CHAU 1 1
SILVERSTRAND 2 2
TRIO (HEBE HAVEN) 1 1
/ISLANDS DISTRICT .......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 17 -
ISLANDS DISTRICT
CHEUNG SHA UPPER 1
CHEUNG SHA LOWER 3
DISCOVERY BAY* 2
HUNG SHING YEH 1
KWUN YAM WAN 1
TONG FUK 1
LO SO SHING 1
PUI 0 2
SILVERMINE BAY 2
TUNG WAN, CHEUNG CHAU 1
TUNG O* 2
TSUEN WAN DISTRICT
ANGLERS9 4
APPROACH 3
CASAM 3
GEMINI 3
HOI MEI WAN 3
LIDO 3
TING KAU 4
TUNG WAN, MA WAN 2
1 3
2
1 1
1 1
2 3
1
2
4
3
3 3
3
3
4
2
NOTE : "X” THE BEACH HAS BEEN CLOSED FOR SWIMMING * NON-GAZETTED BEACH
THE FOLLOWING BEACHES HAVE CHANGED GRADING ON THIS OCCASION:
KADOORIE FROM ”4" TO "3”; CLEAR WATER BAY 2ND BEACH FROM "1” TO ”2”; BIG WAVE BAY, HAIRPIN AND SILVERMINE BAY FROM ”2" TO ”3”; BUTTERFLY FROM ”3” TO ”4”.
ALL OF THE CHANGES ARE WITHIN THE NORMAL RANGE OF FLUCTUATION OF THE BACTERIOLOGICAL WATER QUALITY OF THE BEACHES. THE GENERAL DETERIORATION AT BIG WAVE BAY, HAIRPIN, SILVERMINE BAY AND BUTTERFLY BEACHES IS PROBABLY DUE TO THE RECENT HEAVY RAINFALL WHICH WOULD HAVE CAUSED THE POLLUTANTS IN THE BEACH HINTERLAND TO BE FLUSHED INTO THE SEA WATER.
NOTE TO EDITORS:
FOR FURTHER ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT MR K F TANG, ACTING PRINCIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OFFICER ON TEL 835 1234.
---------0 - -
/18.......
THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 1993
- 18 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ♦ * *
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,200
REVERSAL OF LAF -200
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY +380
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,380
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TW1 112.5 *+0.1* 26.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.73 PCT 15 MONTHS 241 1 4.625 101.44 3.4 4
1 MONTH 2.76 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.66 3.61
3 MONTHS 2.81 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 4.75 99.77 3.92
6 MONTHS 3.02 PCT 24 MONTHS 12 MONTHS 3.27 PCT 2508 4.625 100.99 4.14
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 8,471 MN
CLOSED 26 AUGUST 1993
---------0-----------
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
SAR PRELIMINARY WORKING COMMITTEE OFFICE ..................... 1
PA EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER INCURSION OF PATROL VESSEL ......... 1
ECONOMIC SITUATION IN FIRST HALF OF 1993 AND UPDATED FORECASTS OF GDP AND PRICES FOR 1993 .......................... 1
STATEMENT ON DEFENCE COUNSEL ................................. 11
BOTTLE BEER ADVICE ........................................... H
WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION DRAINAGE CONTRACT ................... 12
EXPERT TALKS ON DEFENCE AND PUBLIC ORDER ..................... 13
RECONSTRUCTION OF LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD ...................... 13
FIRE SERVICES' REPUTATION NOT CONFINED SOLELY TO HK .......... 16
GOVT PRINTER AWARDED CERTIFICATE FOR HIGH INT'L STANDARD .... 17
WIDENING OF TAI PO ROAD PROPOSED ............................. 18
ROAD WORKS PROPOSED FOR TA KWU LING .......................... 19
PREQUALIFICATION INVITED FOR TREATMENT WORKS ................. 20
DREDGING AT PICNIC BAY PROPOSED .............................. 20
TENDERS INVITED FOR DRAINAGE WORKS ........................... 21
PREQUALIFICATION INVITED FOR SUBMARINE OUTFALL WORKS ......... 22
BUILDING REGULATIONS GAZETTED ................................ 23
281 VM’S RETURNED TODAY ...................................... 23
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
24
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
SAR PRELIMINARY WORKING COMMITTEE OFFICE
*****
IN ANSWER TO MEDIA ENQUIRIES ABOUT THE REPORTED ESTABLISHMENT OF A LIAISON OFFICE OF THE PRELIMINARY WORKING COMMITTEE OF THE SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION PREPARATORY COMMITTEE IN HONG KONG, A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN CONFIRMED THAT UNDER THE SOCIETIES ORDINANCE, SUCH AN OFFICE WOULD NOT NEED TO BE REGISTERED.
BUT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD NEED TO BE NOTIFIED.
"THE CHINESE ARE WELL AWARE THAT THIS IS ALL THAT IS NEEDED," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
- - 0-----------
PA EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER * *
INCURSION OF PATROL VESSEL * * ♦
IN A MEETING WITH NEW CHINA NEWS AGENCY OFFICIALS TODAY (FRIDAY), THE POLITICAL ADVISER EXPRESSED THE SERIOUS CONCERN OF THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT OVER THE INCURSION BY A CHINESE PATROL VESSEL INTO HONG KONG WATERS ON AUGUST 26.
MR ROBERT PEIRCE POINTED OUT THAT THE ACTION WAS CONTRARY TO THE CHINESE STATED POLICY OF NOT EXERCISING JURISDICTION IN HONG KONG WATERS.
HE CALLED ON THE CHINESE AUTHORITIES TO INVESTIGATE INTO THE INCIDENT URGENTLY AND PROVIDE AN EXPLANATION OF THE EXTRAORDINARY CONDUCT OF THE OFFICERS INVOLVED.
---------0 - -
ECONOMIC SITUATION TN FIRST HALF OF 1993 AND UPDATED FORECASTS OF GDP AND PRICES FOR 1993 *****
THE GROWTH MOMENTUM OF THE HONG KONG ECONOMY WAS GENERALLY SUSTAINED IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993.
ON DOMESTIC DEMAND, CONSUMER SPENDING REMAINED ROBUST, WHILE INVESTMENT SPENDING ALSO SHOWED A NOTABLE INCREASE.
ON EXTERNAL TRADE, RE-EXPORTS AND IMPORTS SURGED FURTHER, BUT DOMESTIC EXPORTS REMAINED SLUGGISH. EXPORTS AND IMPORTS OF SERVICES BOTH ROSE MARKEDLY.
/THESE DEVELOPMENTS .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
2
THESE DEVELOPMENTS ARE DESCRIBED IN THE HALF-YEARLY ECONOMIC REPORT 1993 RELEASED TODAY (FRIDAY).
REFLECTING THESE DEVELOPMENTS, THE GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) GREW BY AN ESTIMATED 5.3% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER, FOLLOWING A SIMILAR INCREASE IN 1992.
MAINLY AFFECTED BY A SLOWER GROWTH IN EXPORTS IN THE SECOND QUARTER THAN IN THE FIRST QUARTER, THE GDP GROWTH RATE IN THE SECOND QUARTER SHOULD HAVE BEEN SLIGHTLY LOWER, PROBABLY IN THE REGION OF 5%.
CONSUMER PRICE INFLATION MODERATED FURTHER DURING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993, WHILE THE LABOUR MARKET REMAINED BROADLY STABLE WITH THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE STAYING LOW.
THE GOVERNMENT ECONOMIST, MR K Y TANG, SAID FOLLOWING AN ONGOING PRACTICE, THE ECONOMIC FORECASTS FOR THE YEAR HAD BEEN REVIEWED AND UPDATED IN PARALLEL WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE ECONOMIC REPORT.
ADJUSTMENTS ARE MADE TO SOME OF THE COMPONENTS, BUT THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF THE GDP FOR 1993 IS MAINTAINED AT 5.5%.
ON THE LEVEL OF INFLATION FOR 1993, THE FORECAST RATE OF INCREASE IN THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) IS REVISED DOWNWARDS FROM 9.5% TO 9% IN THE LIGHT OF A BETTER THAN EXPECTED OUTTURN SO FAR, BUT THE FORECAST RATE OF INCREASE TN THE GDP DEFLATOR REMAINS UNCHANGED AT 9.5%.
IN THE EXTERNAL SECTOR, TOTAL EXPORTS ROSE BY ABOUT 16% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER.
RE-EXPORTS CONTINUED TO RISE RAPIDLY AND REMAINED THE KEY SOURCE OF THE OVERALL EXPORT GROWTH.
THERE WAS, HOWEVER, A DECELERATION IN THE YEAR-ON-YEAR GROWTH RATE OF RE-EXPORTS, FROM 26% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST QUARTER TO ABOUT 19% IN THE SECOND QUARTER.
RE-EXPORTS TO MOST OF THE MAJOR MARKETS REMAINED ROBUST IN THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR. CHINA CONTINUED TO FEATURE PROMINENTLY IN THE TWO-WAY RE-EXPORT FLOWS.
DOMESTIC EXPORTS REGISTERED ZERO GROWTH IN THE FIRST QUARTER AND FELL BY ABOUT 7% IN REAL TERMS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OVER A YEAR EARLIER, GIVING A DECLINE OF ABOUT 4% IN REAL TERMS FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 AS A WHOLE.
THIS WAS PARTLY DUE TO THE ON-GOING STRUCTURAL SHIFT IN THE COMPOSITION OF HONG KONG’S EXPORTS FROM DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO REEXPORTS.
ALSO RELEVANT, HOWEVER, WAS THE REDUCED PRICE COMPETITIVENESS OF HONG KONG’S PRODUCTS OVERSEAS DUE TO THE STRENGTHENING OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR ALONG WITH THE U.S. DOLLAR IN THE LATTER PART OF 1992 AND THE EARLY PART OF 1993.
/NEVERTHELESS, DOMESTIC ........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 3 -
NEVERTHELESS, DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO CHINA STILL RECORDED A LARGE INCREASE. DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO A NUMBER OF MARKETS IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION ALSO SHOWED FURTHER CONSIDERABLE GROWTH.
AS THE SHIFT IN EXPORT COMPOSITION CONTINUED, THE SHARE OF REEXPORTS IN THE VALUE OF TOTAL EXPORTS ROSE FURTHER, FROM 75% FOR 1992 AS A WHOLE TO 78% IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993.
IMPORTS ALSO INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY, BY ABOUT 15% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER.
MOST OF THIS GROWTH WAS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE CONTINUED EXPANSION IN RE-EXPORTS.
THE INCREASE IN RETAINED IMPORTS MODERATED TO ABOUT 8% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR OVER THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR, FOLLOWING A LARGE INCREASE OF 17% IN 1992.
A VISIBLE TRADE DEFICIT OF $28 BILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 5% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, WAS RECORDED IN THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR.
THIS WAS BROADLY COMPARABLE TO THE DEFICIT OF $26 BILLION, EQUIVALENT TO 6% OF THE VALUE OF IMPORTS, RECORDED IN THE FIRST HALF OF LAST YEAR.
ACCORDING TO THE PRELIMINARY ESTIMATE OF QUARTERLY GDP IN CONSTANT PRICE TERMS, PRIVATE CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE, AS THE LARGEST COMPONENT OF DOMESTIC DEMAND, GREW BY 7% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER, FOLLOWING AN 8% INCREASE IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER.
CONSUMPTION OF BOTH DURABLE AND NON-DURABLE GOODS CONTINUED TO SHOW A RELATIVELY LARGE INCREASE, WHILE CONSUMPTION OF VARIOUS CONSUMER SERVICES ALSO HAI) A NOTABLE GROWTH.
AS REGARDS GOVERNMENT CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE, THERE WAS A MARGINAL DECLINE IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER, HAVING RECORDED QUITE RAPID INCREASES IN THE PREVIOUS QUARTERS.
LOCAL INVESTMENT, MEASURED IN TERMS OF GROSS DOMESTIC FIXED CAPITAL FORMATION, ROSE BY 7% IN REAL TERMS IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER, FOLLOWING AN INCREASE OF 10% IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER.
OF THE MAIN COMPONENTS, EXPENDITURE ON MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT SURGED BY 19% IN THE FIRST QUARTER, HAVING RISEN EVEN MORE SHARPLY BY 27% IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER.
EXPENDITURE ON BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION CONTINUED TO REVIVE, WITH A 7% INCREASE IN THE FIRST QUARTER AFTER A 6% INCREASE IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER.
WORK ON A NUMBER OF MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR ACCELERATED.
HOWEVER, BUILDING ACTIVITY IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR REMAINED RELATIVELY SLACK.
/CONSUMER SPENDING .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
CONSUMER SPENDING SHOULD HAVE REGISTERED A FURTHER MARKED INCREASE IN THE SECOND QUARTER, AS REFLECTED BY THE SHARP RISE IN RETAINED IMPORTS OF CONSUMER GOODS, BY ABOUT 26% IN REAL TERMS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER.
THIS FOLLOWED A 12% INCREASE IN THE FIRST QUARTER. THE VOLUME OF RETAIL SALES ALSO RECORDED A SOLID GAIN, BY 11% IN APRIL AND MAY COMBINED AS COMPARED TO THE SAME MONTHS LAST YEAR.
ON INVESTMENT SPENDING, THERE WAS A FURTHER GROWTH IN RETAINED IMPORTS OF CAPITAL GOODS, BY ABOUT 5% IN REAL TERMS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER, FOLLOWING A 9% INCREASE IN THE FIRST QUARTER.
WITHIN THIS, RETAINED IMPORTS OF CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY RECORDED A PARTICULARLY STRONG UPSURGE DUE TO THE INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS.
RETAINED IMPORTS OF TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT SHOWED A LESS RAPID INCREASE FOLLOWING THE SUBSTANTIAL RISE IN THE PRECEDING YEAR.
RETAINED IMPORTS OF INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY FELL, AFTER THE MARKED INCREASES IN 1992 AND IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF THIS YEAR.
THE LABOUR MARKET REMAINED BROADLY STABLE DURING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993.
THE SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT RATE IN THE SECOND QUARTER, AT 2.2%, WAS 0.1 OF A PERCENTAGE POINT LOWER THAN IN BOTH THE PRECEDING QUARTER AND THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR.
THE UNDEREMPLOYMENT RATE, AT 2.0% IN THE SECOND QUARTER, WAS 0.2 OF A PERCENTAGE POINT LOWER THAN IN THE SAME QUARTER LAST YEAR, BUT 0.4 OF A PERCENTAGE POINT HIGHER THAN IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER.
LABOUR MARKET CONDITIONS WERE TIGHTER IN TRADING AND SERVICES THAN IN MANUFACTURING AND CONSTRUCTION.
REFLECTING THE ON-GOING TRANSFORMATION OF THE ECONOMY TOWARDS SERVICES, EMPLOYMENT AS WELL AS VACANCIES IN MOST OF THE MAJOR SERVICE SECTORS CONTINUED TO RISE, BUT THOSE IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR DECLINED FURTHER.
FOR ALL SECTORS TAKEN TOGETHER, AN INCREASE IN TOTAL EMPLOYMENT WAS NEVERTHELESS RECORDED.
AVERAGE EARNINGS AS WELL AS WAGE RATES IN ALL MAJOR SECTORS SHOWED FURTHER SIGNIFICANT INCREASES IN MONEY TERMS IN THE 12 MONTHS ENDING MARCH 1993.
WHEN EXPRESSED IN REAL TERMS, THERE WERE NOTABLE INCREASES IN MOST SECTORS.
THE PROPERTY MARKET WAS GENERALLY BUOYANT. ON RESIDENTIAL FLATS, TRADING ACTIVITY PICKED UP MARKEDLY IN THE SECOND QUARTER FROM THE FIRST QUARTER.
/FLAT PRICES .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 5 -
FLAT PRICES SURGED DURING THE QUARTER, STIMULATED BY THE SUCCESS IN A NUMBER OF PRE-COMPLETION SALES EXERCISES BY THE MAJOR DEVELOPERS.
THE PRICE GAINS IN PERCENTAGE TERMS WERE GENERALLY GREATER WITH LUXURY FLATS THAN WITH SMALL TO MEDIUM-SIZED FLATS.
RENTALS ALSO RECORDED A STEADY INCREASE.
MARKET SENTIMENT HAD CLEARLY IMPROVED FOLLOWING RESUMPTION OF THE SINO-BRITISH TALKS ON HONG KONG’S CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND ON FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE NEW AIRPORT.
WHILE THE MORTGAGE RA IE WAS RELATIVELY LOW AND HAD BEEN KEPT UNCHANGED SINCE JULY LAST YEAR, ALONG WITH OTHER RESTRAINTS THE 70% MORTGAGE LENDING CEILING ADOPTED BY THE BANKS WAS STILL IN PLACE.
ON OFFICE SPACE, RENTALS FIRMED UP IN THE SECOND QUARTER AMIDST A SUSTAINED END-USER DEMAND AND NOTWITHSTANDING A STILL ABUNDANT SUPPLY IN THE MARKET.
PRICES RECORDED MORE SIGNIFICANT INCREASES AS STRATA TITLES IN PRIME OFFICE PREMISES ATTRACTED CONSIDERABLE INVESTMENT INTEREST.
ON SHOPPING SPACE, A RISING DEMAND DUE TO THE STEADY GROWTH IN BOTH LOCAL CONSUMER AND TOURIST SPENDINGS DROVE RENTALS UP, AND THE SALES MARKET FOR RETAIL UNITS WAS ACTIVE.
ON INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY, WHILE THE OVERALL RENTAL SITUATION REMAINED STATIC, THE SALES OF MODERN INDUSTRIAL PREMISES WITH A HIGH PROPORTION OF SPACE ALSO PERMITTED FOR OFFICE USE WERE WELL-RECEIVED.
IN THE FINANCIAL SECTOR, THE FOLLOWING DEVELOPMENTS WERE OBSERVED DURING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993.
FIRST, THE MARKET EXCHANGE RATE OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR AGAINST THE U.S. DOLLAR REMAINED GENERALLY STABLE UNDER THE LINKED EXCHANGE RATE SYSTEM, MOVING BETWEEN HK$7.722 AND HK$7.757 TO US$1 AND CLOSED THE SECOND QUARTER AT HK$7.749 TO US$1.
SECONDLY, REFLECTING THE MOVEMENTS OF THE U.S. DOLLAR AGAINST OTHER MAJOR CURRENCIES, THE EFFECTIVE EXCHANGE RATE INDEX OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR ROSE FROM 114.2 AT THE END OF DECEMBER 1992 TO 115.3 IN EARLY FEBRUARY, BEFORE EASING BACK TO CLOSE THE MONTH OF JUNE AT 112.3.
APART FROM THE INFLUENCE OF AD HOC EVENTS SUCH AS NEW SHARE ISSUES, LOCAL MONEY MARKET INTEREST RATES GENERALLY MOVED CLOSELY IN LINE WITH THE CORRESPONDING U.S. DOLLAR INTEREST RATES.
DEPOSIT RATES ADMINISTERED BY THE HONG KONG ASSOCIATION OF BANKS REMAINED UNCHANGED THROUGHOUT THE FIRST HALF OF 1993.
THIRDLY, HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS RECORDED ONLY A SMALL GROWTH DURING THE SECOND QUARTER, FOLLOWING A LARGE INCREASE DURING THE FIRST QUARTER.
/THE BROADER .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
6
THE BROADER DEFINITIONS OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR MONEY SUPPLY, HK$M2 AND HK$M3, GREW BY 16.4% AND 15.1% RESPECTIVELY IN JUNE 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER, WHICH WERE BROADLY IN LINE WITH THE GROWTH RATE OF NOMINAL GDP.
FOURTHLY, LOANS AND ADVANCES FOR USE IN HONG KONG GREW SOLIDLY DURING THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR. IN PARTICULAR, THE GROWTH IN RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOANS PICKED UP IN RECENT MONTHS.
FIFTHLY, IN THE LOCAL STOCK MARKET, THE HANG SENG INDEX RALLIED TO A NEW RECORD HIGH OF 7 447 ON 27 MAY, STIMULATED BY OPTIMISM OVER RESUMPTION OF THE SINO-BRITISH TALKS.
THE MARKET THEN UNDERWENT SOME CONSOLIDATION IN JUNE, WITH SHARE PRICES BEING DAMPENED BY THE CONCERN OVER THE SHARP DEPRECIATION OF THE RENMINBI IN THE SWAP CENTRES IN CHINA AND BY PROFIT-TAKING ON THE EARLIER PRICE GAINS.
AT THE END OF JUNE, THE HANG SENG INDEX STOOD AT 7,099, GIVING AN INCREASE OF 29% OVER THE END OF 1992.
UPON THIS INCREASE, THE HONG KONG STOCK MARKET CONTINUED TO OUTPERFORM THE MAJOR STOCK MARKETS OVERSEAS.
MEANWHILE, NEW SHARE ISSUES IN THE LOCAL MARKET RECEIVED A HIGHLY ENTHUSIASTIC RESPONSE.
CONSUMER PRICE INFLATION WAS GENERALLY ON A MODERATING TREND DURING THE FIRST HALF OF 1993. THE YEAR-ON-YEAR RATE OF INCREASE IN THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) EASED APPRECIABLY FROM 9.4% IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF LAST YEAR TO 8.8% IN THE FIRST QUARTER AND FURTHER TO 8.2% IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF THIS YEAR.
THE MODERATION WAS QUITE WIDESPREAD AMONGST THE VARIOUS COMPONENTS OF THE CPI. FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 1993 AS A WHOLE, THE CPI(A) ROSE BY 8.5% OVER A YEAR EARLIER. THE CORRESPONDING INCREASES IN THE CPI(B), HANG SENG CPI AND COMPOSITE CPI WERE 9.0%, 9.5% AND 9.0%.
MEASURING INFLATION ON A BROADER BASIS, THE GDP DEFLATOR ROSE BY 9.5% IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER, COMPARED WITH AN INCREASE OF 10.2% IN THE PRECEDING QUARTER.
MAINLY DUE TO THE CONTINUED IMPROVEMENT IN THE TERMS OF TRADE, THE GDP DEFLATOR SUSTAINED A RELATIVELY MORE RAPID INCREASE THAN THE OTHER PRICE DEFLATORS.
IN FACT, FOR MANY OF THE GDP COMPONENTS, THE INCREASES IN THEIR PRICE DEFLATORS WERE RATHER MODERATE.
THE DOMESTIC DEMAND DEFLATOR, WITH AN INCREASE OF 5.5% IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1993 OVER A YEAR EARLIER, CONTINUED TO RISE MUCH MORE SLOWLY THAN THE CPI(A).
IN REVIEWING THE TRADE AND GDP FORECASTS AGAINST THE RECENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS AND THE SHORT-TERM OUTLOOK, ACCOUNT HAS BEEN TAKEN OF THE SLOWER THAN EXPECTED ECONOMIC RECOVERY IN THE MAJOR INDUSTRALISED COUNTRIES AND, IN PARTICULAR, THE RESTRAINT MEASURES RECENTLY ANNOUNCED BY CHINA TO ALLEVIATE OVERHEATING IN ITS ECONOMY.
/OBSERVATIONS SO .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
OBSERVATIONS SO FAR SUGGEST THAT, BECAUSE THESE ARE NOT MEANT TO BE DRASTIC RETRENCHMENT MEASURES ACROSS THE BOARD, THEY ARE UNLIKELY TO LEAD TO AN ABRUPT DOWNTURN IN CHINA’S ECONOMY AND, IF SO, THE IMPACT ON THE HONG KONG ECONOMY WILL PROBABLY NOT BE SEVERE.
CERTAIN ASPECTS OF HONG KONG’S TRADE AND INVESTMENT WITH CHINA COULD BE AFFECTED IN DUE COURSE, BUT THE INITIAL IMPACT ON THE LOCAL ECONOMY APPEARS LARGELY ABSORBED.
IN THE EXTERNAL SECTOR, THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF RE-EXPORTS IS REVISED DOWNWARDS FROM 25% TO 22%, MAINLY IN THE LIGHT OF THE ACTUAL PERFORMANCE OF RE-EXPORTS TN THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR AND THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN CHINA’S ECONOMY.
RE-EXPORTS TO MARKETS IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION ARE EXPECTED TO REMAIN ROBUST.
AS TO RE-EXPORTS TO MARKETS IN THE UNITED STATES AND THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITY, THE SIGNIFICANT GROWTH SO FAR THIS YEAR IS LIKELY TO BE SUSTAINED NOTWITHSTANDING THE CONTINUED SLACK TN THE ECONOMIES CONCERNED.
ON RE-EXPORTS OF CHINA ORIGIN TO THE UNITED STATES IN PARTICULAR, RENEWAL OF CHINA’S MFN STATUS IN THE UNITED STATES FOR ANOTHER YEAR HAS PROVIDED SOME RELIEF, ALTHOUGH THE ISSUES OF MARKET ACCESS AND BILATERAL TRADE BALANCE THAT THE UNITED STATES KEEPS PURSUING WITH CHINA REMAIN AN ON-GOING CONCERN.
RE-EXPORTS TO CHINA FOR MEETING ITS OWN DEMAND COULD SHOW A SLOWER GROWTH IN THE NEAR TERM AS THE RESTRAINT MEASURES IN CHINA BEAR RESULTS.
BUT OUTWARD PROCESSING ACTIVITIES, WHICH ARE ASSOCIATED WITH A MAJOR PROPORTION OF HONG KONG’S RE-EXPORTS INVOLVING CHINA, SEEM UNLIKELY TO BE AFFECTED.
DOMESTIC EXPORTS ARE FORECAST TO YIELD A SMALL DECLINE OF 1.5% IN REAL TERMS, AS COMPARED TO THE EARLIER FORECAST OF A 1% GROWTH.
THE OVERALL PERFORMANCE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WILL CONTINUE TO BE AFFECTED BY THE SHIFT IN THE COMPOSITION OF HONG KONG’S EXPORTS FROM DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO RE-EXPORTS.
MOREOVER, THE STRENGTHENING OF THE HONG KONG DOLLAR ALONG WITH THE U.S. DOLLAR AGAINST THE MAJOR CURRENCIES IN EUROPE AND EAST ASIA, EXCEPT THE JAPANESE YEN, IN THE LATTER PART OF LAST YEAR AND THE EARLY PART OF THIS YEAR WILL PROBABLY CONTINUE TO HAVE A DAMPENING EFFECT.
NEVERTHELESS, DOMESTIC EXPORTS TO THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION GENERALLY AND TO CHINA IN PARTICULAR ARE EXPECTED TO MAINTAIN A NOTABLE GROWTH.
THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE TN REAL TERMS OF RETAINED IMPORTS IS ALSO LOWERED FROM 11.5% TO 9%, MAINLY IN VIEW OF THE OUTTURN SO FAR THIS YEAR.
/THE DEMAND .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 8 -
THE DEMAND FOR IMPORTED RAW MATERIALS FOR PRODUCTION PURPOSES IS EXPECTED TO SLACKEN SOMEWHAT, IN LINE WITH THE CONTINUED SLACK IN DOMESTIC EXPORTS.
BUT THE DEMAND FOR OTHER CATEGORIES OF RETAINED IMPORTS, PRINCIPALLY CONSUMER GOODS AND CAPITAL GOODS, SHOULD RISE FURTHER IN PARALLEL WITH THE SUSTAINED GROWTH IN DOMESTIC DEMAND.
TAKING RE-EXPORTS AND RETAINED IMPORTS TOGETHER, TOTAL IMPORTS ARE FORECAST TO GROW BY 16% IN REAL TERMS, COMPARED WITH 18.7% IN THE EARLIER FORECAST.
WITH A BETTER-THAN-EXPECTED PERFORMANCE IN BOTH INBOUND AND OUTBOUND TOURISM IN THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR, THE FORECAST GROWTH RATES IN REAL TERMS OF BOTH EXPORTS AND IMPORTS OF SERVICES ARE REVISED UPWARDS TO 10% AND 8.5% RESPECTIVELY, FROM 9% AND 8%.
IN THE DOMESTIC SECTOR, CONSUMER SPENDING HAS CONTINUED TO GROW STEADILY AT QUITE A RAPID PACE.
THE SUSTAINED INCREASE IN LABOUR INCOMES AMIDST A GENERALLY TIGHT LABOUR MARKET, COUPLED WITH A POSITIVE WEALTH EFFECT AS MAY BE EXPECTED FROM THE BUOYANT PROPERTY AND STOCK MARKETS IN RECENT MONTHS, SHOULD LEND SUPPORT TO THE STRENGTH OF CONSUMER SPENDING IN THE NEAR FUTURE.
’ THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF PRIVATE CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE IS THUS MAINTAINED AT 7.5%.
THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF GOVERNMENT CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE IS LOWERED FROM 4% TO 3%, MAINLY TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE SLOW-DOWN OBSERVED SO FAR.
ON INVESTMENT, GIVEN THE ACCELERATION IN CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT AS A NUMBER OF MAJOR PUBLIC SECTOR INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS GATHERED MOMENTUM IN RECENT QUARTERS, THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE OF PUBLIC SECTOR EXPENDITURE ON BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION IS REVISED SUBSTANTIALLY UPWARDS.
BUT PRIVATE SECTOR EXPENDITURE ON BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION IS EXPECTED TO REMAIN SLACK AS BUILDING ACTIVITY IS RELATIVELY SUBDUED.
AS REGARDS EXPENDITURE ON MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT, THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE OF PRIVATE SECTOR EXPENDITURE IS REVISED DOWNWARDS IN THE LIGHT OF THE RECENT SLOW-DOWN, BUT THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE OF PUBLIC SECTOR EXPENDITURE IS SUBSTANTIALLY LIFTED.
COMBINING ALL THE INVESTMENT COMPONENTS TOGETHER, THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF GROSS DOMESTIC FIXED CAPITAL FORMATION STAYS UNCHANGED AT 7.6%.
OVERALL, THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF THE GDP FOR 1993 IS MAINTAINED AT 5.5%.
. THIS PRESUMES THAT THE INDIRECT IMPACT OF CHINA’S RESTRAINT MEASURES ON THE HONG KONG ECONOMY. IF IT WILL COME ABOUT, WILL BE ONLY MODERATE.
/WHILE THE .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 9
WHILE THE FORECAST GROWTH RATES FOR DOMESTIC EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS ARE ADJUSTED DOWNWARDS, THESE ARE LARGELY OFFSET BY THE CORRESPONDING DOWNWARD ADJUSTMENT IN THE FORECAST GROWTH RATE FOR IMPORTS AND BY THE UPWARD ADJUSTMENT IN RESPECT OF THE NET BALANCE ON EXPORTS AND IMPORTS OF SERVICES.
ON CONSUMER PRICE INFLATION, THE MODERATING TREND SO FAR THIS YEAR HAS BEEN FACILITATED BY AN EASING IN THE DOMESTIC INFLATIONARY PRESSURES, AS CAN BE SEEN FROM THOSE COMPONENTS OF THE CPI WITH A LARGE LOCAL INPUT CONTENT, AS WELL AS BY STABLE OR IN SOME INSTANCES EVEN REDUCED IMPORT PRICES.
THE RECENT MOVEMENTS IN THE IMPORT PRICES OF CONSUMER ITEMS HAVE REMAINED LARGELY FAVOURABLE NOTWITHSTANDING THE STRONGER JAPANESE YEN AND THE INFLATION IN CHINA.
THE OUTTURN IN THE CPI(A) SUGGESTS THAT THE EARLIER FORECAST OF AN AVERAGE INCREASE OF 9.5% FOR 1993 IS ON THE HIGH SIDE.
THE AVERAGE INCREASE FOR THE FIRST SEVEN MONTHS OF THIS YEAR WAS SLOWER BY 1 PERCENTAGE POINT, AT 8.5%, WHILE THE LATEST INCREASE RECORDED FOR THE MONTH OF JULY WAS EVEN SLOWER, AT 8.2%.
HAVING REGARD TO THE POSSIBILITY OF A GREATER IMPACT FROM THE YEN AND FROM CHINA’S INFLATION, THE FORECAST OF THE AVERAGE RATE OF INCREASE IN THE CPI(A) FOR THE YEAR IS CUT BY ONLY HALF OF A PERCENTAGE POINT, TO 9%.
THERE WOULD BE SCOPE FOR A FURTHER CUT IF THE IMPACT OF THESE TWO FACTORS REMAINS MODEST.
MEANWHILE, THE FORECAST RATE OF INCREASE IN THE GDP DEFLATOR STAYS UNCHANGED, AT 9.5%.
THE HALF-YEARLY ECONOMIC REPORT 1993 IS NOW ON SALE AT THE GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, GENERAL POST OFFICE BUILDING, CONNAUGHT PLACE, CENTRAL, AT $40 A COPY.
/FORCEAST .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 10 -
FORECAST CURRENT
FOR 1993 UPDATE
AS RELEASED RELEASED ON
ON 28.5.1993 27.8.1993
(%) (%>
GROWTH RATE IN REAL TERMS OF:
PRIVATE CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE 7.5 7.5
GOVERNMENT CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE 4 3
GROSS DOMESTIC FIXED CAPITAL FORMATION 7.6 7.6
TRANSFER COSTS OF LAND AND BUILDINGS 0 0
BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION 2.8 6.9
PRIVATE SECTOR -2 -2
PUBLIC SECTOR 12 25
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS’ MARGIN -2 -2
MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT 15 12.3
PRIVATE SECTOR 15 12
PUBLIC SECTOR 15 30
TOTAL EXPORTS OF GOODS 18.4 15.6
DOMESTIC EXPORTS 1 -1.5
RE-EXPORTS 25 22
IMPORTS OF GOODS 18.7 16
EXPORTS OF SERVICES 9 10
IMPORTS OF SERVICES 8 8.5
GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) 5.5 5.5
PER CAPITA
GDP 4.8 4.8
GROWTH RATE IN MONEY TERMS OF:
GDP 15.5 15.5
PER CAPITA
GDP 14.8 14.8
RATE OF INCREASE IN:
GDP DEFLATOR 9.5 9.5
CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (A) 9.5 9
/Il
--------0-----------
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
STATEMENT ON DEFENCE COUNSEL * * * * *
IN RESPONSE TO MR JUSTICE DUFFY’S COMMENTS MADE TODAY (FRIDAY) , A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID: ”IN THE CASE IN QUESTION, THE DEFENDANT WAS PRIVATELY REPRESENTED. AFTER THE .JUDGE MR JUSTICE DUFFY DISCHARGED THE JURY, HE ADVISED THE DEFENDANT TO APPLY FOR LEGAL AID. "
IN RESPONSE TO THE JUDGE’S COMMENTS REGARDING THE COMPETENCE OF COUNSEL IN HONG KONG, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE FEES THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL’S CHAMBERS OFFER TO FIAT COUNSEL ARE DICTATED BY THE BUDGET GRANTED TO THE DEPARTMENT BY THE FINANCE BRANCH.
THE FEES PAID TO DEFENCE COUNSEL BY THE LEGAL AID DEPARTMENT ARE GOVERNED BY THE LEGAL AID IN CRIMINAL CASES RULES.
THE DEPARTMENT ALWAYS ACTS IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF ITS CLIENTS AND BRIEFS THE MOST SUITABLE COUNSEL AVAILABLE TO ENSURE PROPER REPRESENTATION.
AS A MATTER OF FACT, BOTH DEPARTMENTS MONITOR PERFORMANCE OF COUNSEL CAREFULLY AND ARE SATISFIED WITH THEIR PERFORMANCE.
- - 0 - -
BOTTLE BEER ADVICE
*****
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC’ ARE ADVISED NOT TO DRINK THE 33-CENTILITRE-SIZE HEINEKEN BOTTLE BEER BECAUSE OF THE RISK OF GLASS SPLINTERS IN THE BOTTLES.
THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HAS CONFIRMED WITH THE SOLE AGENT OF HEINEKEN IN HONG KONG REGARDING THE RECALL OF ALL SUCH BOTTLE BEER THIS (FRIDAY) MORNING.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT URGED RETAILERS TO CO-OPERATE IN THE RECALL EXERCISE AND RETURN THE AFFECTED BOTTLE BEER TO THE SOLE AGENT FOR DISPOSAL.
FOOD INSPECTORS OF THE DEPARTMENT HAVE VISITED VARIOUS RETAIL OUTLETS IN THE TERRITORY THIS MORNING.
HE SAID THE DEPARTMENT WOULD CONTINUE TO MONITOR THE SITUATION.
- - 0 - -
/12
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
12
WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION DRAINAGE CONTRACT *****
THE CENTRAL TENDER BOARD HAS APPROVED A FURTHER CONTRACT UNDER THE AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME, VALUED AT $188 MILLION.
THE CONTRACT, WHICH HAS BEEN AWARDED TO AOKI CORPORATION OF JAPAN, IS FOR THE HINTERLAND DRAINAGE PACKAGE 2 (NORTH PORTION) OF THE WEST KOWLOON RECLAMATION PROJECT.
"AMONG OTHER BENEFITS, THE CONTRACT WILL BRING ABOUT AN IMPROVEMENT IN THE WATER QUALITY IN THE HARBOUR OFF WEST KOWLOON," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE NEW AIRPORT PROJECTS CO-ORDINATION OFFICE SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE WORKS WILL INCLUDE THE RECONSTRUCTION AND IMPROVEMENT OF THE EXISTING DRAINAGE SYSTEM IN THE HINTERLAND OF WEST KOWLOON BETWEEN ARGYLE STREET AND HING WAH STREET. THIS WILL PREVENT FLOODING ARISING FROM THE EXTENSION OF DRAINAGE FROM WEST KOWLOON ACROSS THE NEWLY RECLAIMED LAND.
THE IMPROVEMENT IN THE WATER QUALITY IN THE HARBOUR WILL BE ACHIEVED BY THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW SEWERS AND DRY WEATHER FLOW INTERCEPTORS WHICH WILL INTERCEPT POLLUTED STORM WATER IN THE EXISTING DRAINAGE SYSTEM.
CONSTRUCTION WORK WILL START IN MID-SEPTEMBER AND WILL BE COMPLETED IN EARLY 1996.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID TEMPORARY TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT MEASURES WOULD BE INTRODUCED IN SHAM SHUI PO AND MONG KOK TO FACILITATE CONSTRUCTION WORK.
"THESE MEASURES HAVE BEEN CAREFULLY DESIGNED AND WILL BE MONITORED IN ORDER TO MINIMISE THE IMPACT ON TRAFFIC," HE SAID.
THE AWARD OF THIS CONTRACT BRINGS THE TOTAL NUMBER OF AIRPORT CORE PROGRAMME (ACP) CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS AWARDED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO 26, WITH A TOTAL VALUE OF $28.8 BILLION.
TOGETHER WITH THE FOUR CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS AWARDED BY THE PROVISIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY VALUED AT $9.7 BILLION, THE TOTAL VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR THE ACP, ALL WITHIN BUDGET, IS SOME $38.5 BILLION.
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/13........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 13 -
EXPERT TALKS ON DEFENCE AND PUBLIC ORDER ******
A 12TH ROUND OF TALKS BETWEEN EXPERTS OF THE BRITISH AND CHINESE SIDES OF THE JOINT LIAISON GROUP TO DISCUSS MATTERS RELATING TO HONG KONG’S FUTURE DEFENCE AND PUBLIC ORDER WILL BE HELD IN HONG KONG ON SEPTEMBER 1 AND 3.
THE BRITISH TEAM WILL BE LED BY BRITISH REPRESENTATIVE MR ALAN PAUL. THE CHINESE TEAM WILL BE LED BY CHINESE REPRESENTATIVE MR LUO JIAHUAN. THEY WILL BE ASSISTED BY EXPERTS FROM THE TWO SIDES.
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RECONSTRUCTION OF LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD *******
WORK ON RECONSTRUCTING AND IMPROVING LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD FROM THE TOLL PLAZA TO SHA TIN ROAD WILL MOVE AHEAD AT FULL STEAM WITH THE SIGNING OF THE CONTRACT TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE CONTRACT WAS SIGNED BETWEEN HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT’S REGIONAL HIGHWAY ENGINEER (NEW TERRITORIES), MR TSAO TAK-KIANG, AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CONTRACTOR, CHUN WO CONSTRUCTION AND ENGINEERING COMPANY LIMITED.
MR TSAO SAID AFTER THE SIGNING CEREMONY THAT THE LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD WAS A PART OF THE ROUTE 1 TRUNK ROAD.
SINCE THE OPENING OF THE KOWLOON BOUND AND NEW TERRITORIES BOUND CARRIAGEWAYS IN 1967 AND 1978 RESPECTIVELY, THE ROAD HAD BEEN USED BY HEAVY TRAFFIC.
"THE ROAD PAVEMENT HAS NOW REACHED THE END OF ITS SERVICE LIFE AND COMPLETE RECONSTRUCTION IS REQUIRED TO KEEP THE ROAD SATISFACTORY FOR USE. IMPROVEMENTS WILL ALSO BE TAKEN IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE RECONSTRUCTION WORK," MR TSAO SAID.
THESE INCLUDED IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SUPER-ELEVATION ON BENDS, LENGTHENING THE SLIP ROADS TO AND FROM THE HUNG MUI KUK INTERCHANGE, INSTALLATION OF OVERHEAD GANTRY SIGNS, IMPROVEMENT TO THE ROAD DRAINAGE AND REPROVISIONING OF ROAD LIGHTING.
MR TSAO SAID THE RECONSTRUCTION WORK WOULD BE DIVIDED INTO TWO STAGES.
STAGE I WOULD BE FROM THE HUNG MUI KUK INTERCHANGE TO SHA TIN ROAD AND STAGE II WOULD BE FROM THE LION ROCK TUNNEL TOLL PLAZA TO THE HUNG MUI KUK INTERCHANGE.
/STAGE I .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 14 -
STAGE I WOULD TAKE SEVEN MONTHS TO COMPLETE AND STAGE II WOULD TAKE ANOTHER EIGHT MONTHS TO COMPLETE. THE WHOLE PROJECT WAS SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION BY DECEMBER NEXT YEAR.
MR TSAO SAID TO ENABLE THE WORK TO BE COMPLETED WITHIN SUCH A SHORT TIME, WORKING ROUND THE CLOCK MIGHT BE REQUIRED.
’’HOWEVER, NIGHT WORK WILL BE CONFINED TO ACTIVITIES WHICH WILL NOT GENERATE EXCESSIVE NOISE,” HE STRESSED.
"TEMPORARY NOISE BARRIER WILL BE ERECTED ALONG THE SIDE OF THE ROAD," HE ADDED.
MR TSAO SAID IN BOTH STAGES, ONLY ONE TRAFFIC LANE AT A TIME WOULD BE CLOSED FOR RECONSTRUCTION.
DURING THE STAGE I WORK, THREE LANES WOULD BE AVAILABLE FOR TRAFFIC. THEREFORE, TIDAL FLOW HAD TO BE IMPLEMENTED TO COPE WITH THE PEAK-HOUR FLOW FOR KOWLOON BOUND AND NEW TERRITORIES BOUND TRAFFIC.
ACCORDINGLY, FROM 6 AM TO 4 PM, THERE WOULD BE TWO LANES FOR KOWLOON BOUND AND ONE FOR NEW TERRITORIES BOUND.
AND FROM 4 PM TO MIDNIGHT, THE MIDDLE LANE WOULD BE REVERTED SO THAT TWO LANES WOULD BE FOR NEW TERRITORIES BOUND AND ONE FOR KOWLOON BOUND.
FROM MID-NIGHT TO 6 AM, ONLY ONE LANE WOULD BE OPENED FOR EACH DIRECTION FOR THE SAKE OF BETTER SAFETY.
FOR STAGE II, TWO TRAFFIC LANES WOULD BE MAINTAINED IN EACH DIRECTION THROUGHOUT THE RECONSTRUCTION WORK, TIDAL FLOW ARRANGEMENT WOULD THEREFORE NOT BE REQUIRED. HOWEVER, THE BUS-ONLY LANE WOULD HAVE TO BE SUSPENDED.
MR TSAO POINTED OUT THAT THE SPEED LIMIT HAD BEEN REDUCED FROM 70 KM PER HOUR TO 50 KM PER HOUR SINCE AUGUST 24.
HE ALSO SAID SOME ADVANCE WORKS WHICH INCLUDED THE BREAKING UP OF THE EXISTING CONCRETE CENTRAL DIVIDER IN THE STAGE I AREA AND THE REPLACEMENT OF THE EXISTING ROAD LIGHTING BY NEW ONES HAD ALREADY BEEN COMPLETED IN THE PAST TWO MONTHS.
AT THE SAME TIME, THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL INTRODUCE VARIOUS TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SCHEMES TO CATER FOR TRAFFIC FLOWS DURING THE RECONSTRUCTION PERIOD.
ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER FOR TRANSPORT (NEW TERRITORIES), MR ALAN LUI, SAID INFORMATION SIGNS WARNING 01* THE ROADWORKS AND ADVISING OF ALTERNATIVE ROUTES WOULD BE ERECTED IN KOWLOON AND AT STRATEGIC LOCATIONS IN SHA TIN.
THE MAIN ALTERNATIVE ROUTES RECOMMENDED ARE ROUTE 5 SHING MUN TUNNELS AND ROUTE 6 TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL.
LOCAL DIVERSION ROUTES IN SHA TIN WOULD BE SET UP ALONG HUNG MUI KlJK ROAD, CHE KUNG MIU ROAD AND MEI TIN ROAD SO THAT SOME TRAFFIC COULD BY-PASS THE WORKS AREA.
/THE TRAFFIC .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 15 -
THE TRAFFIC SIGNALS AT JUNCTIONS ALONG THESE BYPASS ROUTES HAVE BEEN MODIFIED IN THE PAST TWO MONTHS TO CATER FOR THE INCREASED TRAFFIC FLOWS.
LEARNER DRIVERS HAVE ALSO BEEN BANNED FROM LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD AND HUNG MUI KUK ROAD.
MR LUI SAID FOR STAGE II OF THE RECONSTRUCTION, THE BUS ONLY LANE BETWEEN THE TOLL PLAZA AND HUNG MUI KUK ROAD WOULD BE CANCELLED AND TWO LANES WOULD BE MAINTAINED IN EACH DIRECTION TO PROVIDE THE SAME CAPACITY AS THE LION ROCK TUNNEL.
HE ADDED THAT SHOULD THE SITUATION WARRANT, SIGNALISED MERGING MIGHT BE ADOPTED AS AND WHEN REQUIRED FOR BOTH STAGE I AND STAGE II WHERE HUNG MUI KUK ROAD MERGES WITH LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD SOUTHBOUND.
REGARDING PUBLIC TRANSPORT, MR LUI SAID TO ENSURE OPERATING EFFICIENCY, KOWLOON MOTOR BUS ROUTES NO. 70X, 72X, 82M, 271 AND 281P RUNNING ON THE SECTION OF LION ROCK TUNNEL ROAD NEAR SHA TIN WAI WOULD BE DIVERTED TO OPERATE VIA THE CONTINUOUS BUS LANE ON HUNG MUI KUK ROAD.
’’SOME BUSES WILL RUN EMPTY ON THEIR MORNING RETURN JOURNEYS FROM KOWLOON VIA TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL DURING MORNING PEAK HOURS SO AS TO MAINTAIN THE SERVICE LEVEL OF BUS SERVICES TO HANDLE THE HEAVY KOWLOON-BOUND PASSENGER TRAFFIC,” HE ADDED.
A BUS PRIORITY SCHEME WILL ALSO BE INTRODUCED ON THE SIU LEK YUEN APPROACH TO TATE’S CAIRN TUNNEL TO BENEFIT BUS SERVICES. EXTERNAL KOWLOON MOTOR BUS ROUTES FROM MA ON SHAN TO URBAN KOWLOON WILL BE ENHANCED.
’’FEEDER ROUTE FROM MA ON SHAN TO UNIVERSITY KCR STATION WILL ALSO BE STRENGTHENED,” MR LUI SAID.
HE SAID THESE IMPROVEMENTS IN BUS SERVICES WERE INTENDED TO PROVIDE A MORE ATTRACTIVE ALTERNATIVE TO COMMUTERS, AND SHOULD HELP TO REDUCE TRAFFIC OF THE LESS EFFICIENT TRANSPORT MODES.
HE ENCOURAGED COMMUTERS TO USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES, IN PARTICULAR THE KCR DURING THE WORKS PERIOD.
A TRIAL FOR THE TIDAL FLOW WILL BE OPERATED FOR THREE DAYS STARTING FROM 6 AM ON SUNDAY (AUGUST 29).
THE TRIAL WOULD GIVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO CONSIDER ANY AMENDMENT BEFORE THE STARTING OF THE STAGE I WORKS.
A TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENT MANAGEMENT GROUP COMPRISING REPRESENTATIVES OF TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT, TRAFFIC POLICE AND HIGHWAYS DEPARTMENT WILL MONITOR THE TRAFFIC ARRANGEMENTS OF THE PROJECT.
A TELEPHONE HOTLINE - 714 1111 - HAS BEEN SET UP TO RESPOND QUICKLY TO QUERIES AND COMPLAINTS FROM THE PUBLIC.
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/16........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 16 -
FIRE SERVICES’ REPUTATION NOT CONFINED SOLELY TO HK *****
HONG KONG FIRE SERVICES WAS NOT ONLY ONE OF THE FINEST SERVICES IN ASIA BUT IN THE WORLD.
SPEAKING AT THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT’S 100TH PASSING-OUT PARADE AT ITS TRAINING SCHOOL IN PAT HEUNG TODAY (FRIDAY), THE COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS AND EXCISE, MR CLIVE OXLEY, SAID HE COULD SPEAK ON BEHALF OF THE COMMUNITY, OF DEEP SENSE OF PRIDE THE DEPARTMENT TOOK IN ITS LONG, PROUD TRADITION AND THE OUTSTANDING REPUTATION.
AND THAT THIS REPUTATION WAS NOT CONFINED SOLELY TO HONG KONG.
"I AM CONFIDENT THAT THIS REPUTATION WILL CONTINUE TO BE MOST SUCCESSFULLY UPHELD BY THESE OFFICERS AND MEN WHO HAVE JUST COMPLETED AN EXTREMELY DEMANDING INITIAL TRAINING COURSE," HE SAID.
MR OXLEY PAID TRIBUTE TO THE PREDECESSORS OVER THE YEARS WHO THROUGH THEIR INSTRUCTION AND GUIDANCE, BUT ABOVE ALL BY THEIR EXAMPLE, HAD HELPED CREATE THE FIRE SERVICES DEPARTMENT OF TODAY.
HE TOLD THE GRADUATES THAT THEY HAD CHOSEN A DIFFICULT BUT WITHOUT DOUBT A MOST REWARDING CAREER.
HE ADDED THAT THEY WOULD FIND FOR REWARDS THAT TRANSCEND PAY. ON LEAVING THE SCHOOL, THEY WOULD FIND THAT THEIR PROFESSION DEMANDED UNSELFISHNESS, GREAT PERSONAL SACRIFICE AND HARD WORK.
"THESE REWARDS INCLUDE THE CLOSE COMRADESHIP OF YOUR SERVICE, A SERVICE THAT IS BOUND BY PROFESSIONALISM, LOYALTY, TRUST AND RESPECT," MR OXLEY SAID.
"BUT ABOVE ALL, YOUR REWARD IS THE KNOWLEDGE THAT YOU CAN AND WILL RELIEVE HUMAN SUFFERING, BY SAVING LIVES AND BY PROTECTING PROPERTY FROM THE RAVAGES OF FIRE, FLOODS, LANDSLIDES AND OTHER CALAMITIES," HE ADDED.
MR OXLEY SAID TODAY’S CEREMONY WAS PARTICULARLY MEANINGFUL TO HIM AS IT WAS ONE OF THE LAST OCCASIONS AT WHICH HE SHOULD BE PRIVILEGED TO STAND AS REVIEWING OFFICER BEFORE RETIRING LATER THIS YEAR.
HE SAID DURING HIS 24 YEARS WITH THE CIVIL SERVICE, THERE WAS NONE THAT HAD GIVEN HIM AS MUCH PLEASURE AND CHALLENGE AS WHEN HE WAS APPOINTED COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS AND EXCISE AND WAS THUS ABLE TO WEAR A DISCIPLINED SERVICES UNIFORM.
HE POINTED OUT THAT THE UNIFORM WAS NOT SIMPLY A MEANS OF IDENTIFICATION, BUT SYMBOLISED THE SERVICE’S PLEDGE TO THE COMMUNITY.
"A PLEDGE TO MAINTAIN THE SECURITY OF HONG KONG WITH UNSTINTING DEDICATION AND UNSELFISHNESS WHENEVER THE PUBLIC REQUIRES OUR SERVICE.
/"A PLEDGE .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 17 -
”A PLEDGE TO CONTRIBUTE OUR VERY BEST AS MEMBERS OF THE CIVIL SERVICE IN KEEPING HONG KONG A DYNAMIC, LAW-ABIDING YET CARING PLACE TO LIVE IN,” MR OXLEY SAID.
TAKING PART IN TODAY’S PARADE WERE 86 NEW RECRUITS WHO HAD JUST COMPLETED A 26-WEEK INITIAL TRAINING IN THE SCHOOL.
------0--------
GOVT PRINTER AWARDED CERTIFICATE FOR HIGH INT’L STANDARD * * » * *
THE GOVERNMENT PRINTER, MR HARRIS MYERS, RECEIVED THE ISO 9002 CERTIFICATE AWARDED BY THE HONG KONG QUALITY ASSURANCE AGENCY TODAY (FRIDAY) IN RECOGNITION OF THE GOVERNMENT PRINTING DEPARTMENT’S HIGH STANDARD OF QUALITY MANAGEMENT.
IT IS THE FIRST GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT AS WELL AS THE FIRST PRINTER IN HONG KONG TO ACHIEVE THIS HIGHLY REGARDED INTERNATIONAL STANDARD.
THE ISO 9000 SERIES OF QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND QUALITY ASSURANCE STANDARDS WAS PUBLISED BY THE INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATION FOR STANDARDISATION (ISO) IN 1987.
THERE ARE FIVE STANDARDS IN THE SERIES ISO 9000-9004 SETTING OUT HOW COMPANIES CAN ESTABLISH, DOCUMENT AND MAINTAIN AN EFFECTIVE QUALITY SYSTEM.
COMPLIANCE WITH THE SYSTEM WILL HELP COMPANIES DEMONSTRATE TO THEIR CUSTOMERS THAT THEY ARE COMMITTED TO QUALITY AND ARE ABLE TO SUPPLY THEIR QUALITY NEEDS.
MORE THAN 30 COUNTRIES HAVE ADOPTED THE ISO 9000 SERIES AS THEIR NATIONAL QUALITY SYSTEM STANDARDS.
ISO 9002 IN THE SERIES IS MOST RELEVANT TO THE PRINTING INDUSTRY IN ITS TRADITIONAL ROLE AS A SERVICE INDUSTRY.
FOR SEVERAL YEARS, THE DEPARTMENT HAS OPERATED AN INTERNAL QUALITY SYSTEM. WITHOUT THE AID OF CONSULTANTS AND AT MINIMAL COST, THE DEPARTMENT REVIEWED ITS SYSTEM OF DOCUMENTATION TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF ISO 9002.
THE HKQAA, A GOVERNMENT SUBVENTED COMPANY OPERATING THIRD PARTY CERTIFICATION IN THE TERRITORY, CARRIED OUT AN INDEPENDENT ASSESSMENT AND AUDIT OF THE CAPABILITY OF THE DEPARTMENT TO PROVIDE QUALITY PRINTING SERVICES.
THE DEPARTMENT WAS REGISTERED BY HKQAA IN AUGUST THIS YEAR AS A CERTIFIED ORGANISATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH REQUIREMENTS OF ISO 9002.
/THIS RECOGNITION .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 18
THIS RECOGNITION OF THE VERY HIGH INTERNATIONAL STANDARD OF QUALITY MANAGEMENT THAT SUPPORTS THE DEPARTMENT’S QUALITY SYSTEM IS A GREAT TRIBUTE TO THE WORK OF ALL MEMBERS OF THE STAFF.
THE GOVERNMENT PRINTING DEPARTMENT, ESTABLISHED IN 1952, IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ALL PRINTING AND CONVERTED PAPER STATIONERY REQUIRED BY THE GOVERNMENT.
THE DEPARTMENT ENGAGES IN FOUR MAIN AREAS OF ACTIVITY, NAMELY PROCURING PRINTING MATERIALS AND SERVICES; PRINTING FOR GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS; STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION OF PRINTED FORMS AND STATIONERY AND PRODUCTION OF SECURITY DOCUMENTS AND IDENTITY CARDS.
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WIDENING OF TAI PO ROAD PROPOSED
*****
THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT HAS PROPOSED TO CARRY OUT ROADWORKS TN TAI PO KAU, TAI PO, NEW TERRITORIES.
THE WORKS INCLUDE WIDENING A SECTION OF TAI PO ROAD, IMPROVING A ROAD JUNCTION AND CONSTRUCTING FOOTPATHS.
THESE WORKS WILL BE CARRIED OUT BY A PRIVATE DEVELOPER AS A CONDITION OF A PROPOSED LAND EXCHANGE FOR A RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT TN THE TOWN.
VEHICULAR ACCESS WILL BE MAINTAINED DURING THE CONSTRUCTION PERIOD.
A NOTICE OF THE PROPOSED WORKS WAS GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE PLAN AND SCHEME CAN BE SEEN AT THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL; THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, TAI PO, FIRST FLOOR, TAI PO GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, TING KOK ROAD, TAI PO AND THE TAI PO DISTRICT OFFICE, SECOND FLOOR, TAI PO GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING.
ANY PERSON WHO WISHES TO OBJECT TO THE WORKS SHOULD SEND HIS WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, SECOND FLOOR, EAST WING, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG BEFORE OCTOBER 26, DESCRIBING HIS INTEREST AND THE MANNER IN WHICH HE WILL BE AFFECTED.
- - 0 - -
/19........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 19 -
ROAD WORKS PROPOSED FOR TA KWU LING ♦ ♦ * * * ♦
THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT HAS SUGGESTED CARRYING OUT ROAD WORKS IN TA KWU LING AS PART OF THE PROPOSED NORTHEAST NEW TERRITORIES LANDFILL PROJECT.
THE WORKS INVOLVE ROAD WIDENING AND CONSTRUCTING PASSING BAYS AND CAR PARKS AT PING YEUNG ROAD, LIN MA HANG ROAD, HEUNG YUEN WAI ROAD AND TONG FONG TRACK; WIDENING AND IMPROVING PING CHE ROAD AND CONSTRUCTING AN ACCESS ROAD TO LINK UP THE INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS TO THE EAST OF PING CHE VILLAGE WITH PING CHE ROAD.
ANCILLARY DRAINAGE WORKS, EARTHWORKS AND UTILITY ACCOMMODATION WORKS WILL ALSO BE CARRIED OUT.
IT HAS BEEN PROPOSED TO TEMPORARILY CLOSE CERTAIN ROADS WITHIN THE WORKS AREAS TO FACILITATE THE WORKS.
DURING THE CONSTRUCTION PERIOD, VEHICULAR ACCESS WILL BE MAINTAINED AND EMERGENCY ACCESS WILL BE PROVIDED WHEN REQUIRED.
THE WORKS ARE SCHEDULED TO BEGIN IN AUGUST 1994 FOR COMPLETION IN THE LATTER HALF OF 1995.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREAS AFFECTED IS DESCRIBED IN NOTICES GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
ANY PERSON WHO WISHES TO OBJECT TO THE WORKS SHOULD WRITE TO THE SECRETARY FOR TRANSPORT, SECOND FLOOR, EAST WING, CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES, LOWER ALBERT ROAD, HONG KONG BEFORE OCTOBER 26, 1993, DESCRIBING HIS INTEREST AND THE MANNER IN WHICH HE WILL BE AFFECTED.
THE NOTICE, IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE, CAN BE SEEN ON NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITES.
THE PLANS AND SCHEME CAN ALSO BE INSPECTED AT THE CENTRAL AND WESTERN DISTRICT OFFICE, PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRE, GROUND FLOOR, HARBOUR BUILDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL; THE DISTRICT LANDS OFFICE, NORTH, SIXTH FLOOR, NORTH DISTRICT GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING, 3 PIK FUNG ROAD, FANLING, NEW TERRITORIES AND THE NORTH DISTRICT OFFICE, THIRD FLOOR, NORTH DISTRICT GOVERNMENT OFFICES BUILDING.
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/20 .......
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 20 -
PREQUALIFICATION INVITED FOR TREATMENT WORKS
*****
WATER SUPPLIES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING APPROVED CONTRACTORS TO PARTICIPATE IN PREQUALIFICATION EXERCISE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE MA ON SHAN TREATMENT WORKS, A PUMPING STATION AND A PRIMARY SERVICE RESERVOIR AT KWUN HUNG, MA ON SHAN.
THOSE ON THE APPROVED CONTRACTORS FOR PUBLIC WORKS LIST I IN GROUP C (CONFIRMED) FOR WATERWORKS OR ON THE LIST II (CONFIRMED) FOR WATERWORKS, ARE INVITED TO APPLY FOR PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS FROM CAMP DRESSER & MCKEE INTERNATIONAL INC., 43RD FLOOR, METROPLAZA TOWER 1, 223 HING FONG ROAD, KWAI FONG, NEW TERRITORIES.
THE SCOPE OF THE PROJECT COMPRISES ALL CIVIL AND BUILDING WORKS, INCLUDING SITE FORMATION, SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF ALL ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT, BUILDING SERVICES AND ASSOCIATED PIPEWORKS.
UPON COMPLETION, THE MA ON SHAN TREATMENT WORKS WILL HAVE AN OUTPUT OF 227,000 CUBIC METRES A DAY, A PUMPING STATION WITH A PUMPING CAPACITY OF 227,000 AND A SERVICE RESERVOIR WITH A STORAGE CAPACITY OF 40,000 CUBIC METRES.
THE MA ON SHAN TREATMENT WORKS WILL SERVE THE WHOLE OF MA ON SHAN NEW TOWN AND SURROUNDING AREAS, PART OF SHA TIN AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT AT PAK SHEK KOK IN TAI PO. THE POPULATION IN SAI KUNG NORTH WILL ALSO BENEFIT INDIRECTLY BECAUSE THE MA ON SHAN PROJECT WOULD RELIEVE PRESSURE ON THE PAK KONG TREATMENT WORKS WHICH SUPPLIES WATER TO THE AREA.
WORKS ARE EXPECTED TO START NEXT APRIL AND TAKE 30 MONTHS TO COMPLETE.
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DREDGING AT PICNIC RAY PROPOSED
*****
THE GOVERNMENT HAS PROPOSED TO PERMIT DREDGING WITHIN AN AREA OF 1.2 HECTARES OF FORESHORE AND SEABED AT PICNIC BAY, LAMMA ISLAND TO PROVIDE A CHANNEL FOR CONCRETE PRECAST UNITS FROM A CASTING YARD AT LAMMA QUARRY.
DREDGING IS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TN LATE 1993 FOR COMPLETION IN ABOUT SIX MONTHS.
THE EXTENT OF THE AREA AFFECTED IS DESCRIBED IN A NOTICE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
ANY PERSON WHO CONSIDERS THAT HE HAS AN INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT IN OR OVER THE FORESHORE AND SEABED INVOLVED MAY SUBMIT A WRITTEN OBJECTION TO THE DIRECTOR OF LANDS BEFORE OCTOBER 27.
/THE OBJECTION........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
THE OBJECTION SHALL DESCRIBE THE INTEREST, RIGHT OR EASEMENT OF THE OBJECTOR AND THE MANNER IN WHICH HE WILL BE AFFECTED.
THE NOTICE, IN BOTH ENGLISH AND CHINESE, TOGETHER WITH ITS RELATED PLAN CAN BE SEEN ON NOTICE BOARDS POSTED NEAR THE SITE.
THE PLAN CAN ALSO BE SEEN AT THE SURVEY AND MAPPING OFFICE, LANDS DEPARTMENT, 14TH FLOOR, MURRAY BUILDING, GARDEN ROAD, HONG KONG (WHERE COPIES CAN BE PURCHASED ON ORDER) OR AT THE ISLANDS DISTRICT OFFICE, 20TH FLOOR, HARBOUR BULIDING, 38 PIER ROAD, CENTRAL, HONG KONG.
- - 0 - -
TENDERS INVITED FOR DRAINAGE WORKS * * * * ♦
THE DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT IS INVITING TENDERS FOR THREE SEPARATE CONTRACTS FOR DRAINAGE WORKS.
NOTICES OF THE TENDER INVITATIONS WERE GAZETTED TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE FIRST CONTRACT IS FOR DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION WORKS ON HONG KONG ISLAND AND THE ISLANDS DISTRICT FOR 1993/96.
THE WORKS INCLUDE THE MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT OF ALL EXISTING PUBLIC SEWERAGE AND STORMWATER DRAINAGE SYSTEMS, AS WELL AS THE CONSTRUCTION OF MINOR SEWERS AND DRAINS.
THE CONTRACT WILL RUN FROM NOVEMBER THIS YEAR TO MARCH 1996.
CLOSING DATE FOR SUBMITTING TENDERS IS NOON ON SEPTEMBER 17.
TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE OFFICE OF CHIEF ENGINEER, HONG KONG AND ISLANDS DIVISION, DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 42ND FLOOR, REVENUE TOWER, 5 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI.
THE SECOND CONTRACT IS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SEWERAGE AND TREATMENT WORKS IN SHEK O AS PART OF THE SEWERAGE AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL SCHEME FOR SHEK O AND REPULSE BAY AREAS.
THE WORKS INCLUDE RECLAMATION AND CONSTRUCTION OF A SEAWALL, A SCREENING PLANT AND ACCESS ROAD AT ROCKY BAY, A SEWAGE PUMPING STATION AND A STORM TANK AT SHEK O BEACH, AS WELL AS ASSOCIATED SEWERS AND PUMPING MAINS.
THE CONTRACT IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN JANUARY NEXT YEAR, COMPLETING BY EARLY 1996.
TENDER CLOSING DATE FOR THIS CONTRACT IS NOON ON SEPTEMBER 24.
TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM ACER CONSULTANTS (FAR EAST) LIMITED, NINTH FLOOR, HARBOUR CENTRE, 25 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
/THE THIRD
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 22 -
THE THIRD CONTRACT IS FOR PART OF THE WORKS UNDER A COMPREHENSIVE DRAINAGE PROJECT TO ALLEVIATE FLOODING HAZARD IN THE YUEN LONG AND KAM TIN CATCHMENTS.
THE WORKS INCLUDE CONSTRUCTION OF ABOUT THREE KILOMETRES OF DRAINAGE CHANNELS STRETCHING FROM THE NEW TERRITORIES CIRCULAR ROAD AT HUNG MO KIU TO THE SHAN PUI RIVER ADJACENT TO LUT CHAU, AND ASSOCIATED ROADS AND DRAINAGE WORKS.
THE CONTRACT IS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN IN FEBRUARY NEXT YEAR AND WILL TAKE THREE YEARS TO COMPLETE.
THE DEADLINE FOR THIS TENDER IS NOON ON OCTOBER 8.
TENDER FORMS AND FURTHER PARTICULARS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE OFFICE OF CHIEF ENGINEER, NEW WORKS DIVISION, DRAINAGE SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 44TH FLOOR, REVENUE TOWER, 5 GLOUCESTER ROAD, WAN CHAI.
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PREQUALIFICATION INVITED FOR SUBMARINE OUTFALL WORKS » * * * *
THE TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT IS INVITING PREQUALIFICATION SUBMISSIONS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A SUBMARINE OUTFALL FROM SIU HO WAN, NORTH LANTAU TO THE SOUTH OF EAST BROTHER ISLAND.
THE OUTFALL WILL BE OF CONTINUOUSLY WELDED STEEL CONSTRUCTION TYPE WITH A NOMINAL INTERNAL DIAMETER OF 1,800 MM. THERE WILL BE A SECTION OF ABOUT 200 METRES INSIDE A SEWAGE OUTFALL CULVERT AND A SUBMARINE SECTION OF ABOUT 1,300 METRES.
THE PIPELINE WILL BE LAID IN A DREDGED TRENCH BELOW THE SEABED LEVEL.
"THE CONTRCTOR WILL BE REQUIRED TO UNDERTAKE ALL THE CIVIL WORKS AND CO-ORDINATE WITH ALL THE UTILITY COMPANIES AND CONTRACTORS WORKING ON ADJACENT SITE.
"AND THE WORK MUST BE COMMISSIONED WITHIN A RESTRICTED PROGRAMME," A DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (FRIDAY).
THE NOTICE INVITING PREQUALIFICATION SUBMISSIONS WAS GAZETTED TODAY.
THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE INVITATION WAS ONLY OPEN TO CONTRACTORS ON THE APPROVED CONTRACTORS FOR PUBLIC WORKS LIST I IN GROUP C FOR PORT WORKS, ROADS AND DRAINAGE WORKS, WATERWORKS OR ON THE LIST II.
PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE PROJECT’S CONSULTANT, MOTT MACDONALD HONG KONG LIMITED, 12TH FLOOR, SUN HUNG KAI CENTRE, 30 HARBOUR ROAD, WAN CHAI.
THE CLOSING DATE FOR THE SUBMISSION OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS IS NOON ON OCTOBER 29.
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/23........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 23
BUILDING REGULATIONS GAZETTED
*****
AMENDMENTS ARE MADE TO A NUMBER OF REGULATIONS FOLLOWING THE ENACTMENT ON JULY 23, 1993 OF THE BUILDINGS (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) ORDINANCE WHICH BETTER DEFINES THE POWERS OF THE BUILDING AUTHORITY AND STREAMLINES EXISTING PROCEDURES.
THE AMENDED REGULATIONS WHICH WILL TAKE IMMEDIATE EFFECT ARE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE TODAY.
THEY ARE THE BUILDING (ADMINISTRATION) (AMENDMENT) (NO. 2) REGULATION 1993, THE BUILDING (DEMOLITION WORKS) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993, THE BUILDING (PLANNING) (AMENDMENT) REGULATION 1993 AND THE BUILDING (OIL STORAGE INSTALLATIONS) (AMENDMENT) (NO. 3) REGULATION 1993.
A BUILDINGS DEPARTMENT SPOKESMAN SAID: ’’THE AMENDMENTS TO THE REGULATIONS INCLUDE REMOVAL OF REFERENCES TO UNITED KINGDOM QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE REGISTRATION OF AUTHORISED PERSONS AND REGISTERED STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS, REPLACEMENT OF ALL PRESCRIBED FORMS WITH NEW SPECIFIED FORMS, AND OTHER MINOR CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENTS.”
---------0-----------
281 VM’S RETURNED TODAY
*****
A GROUP OF 281 VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS TODAY (FRIDAY) RETURNED TO VIETNAM UNDER THE UNHCR’S VOLUNTARY REPATRIATION PROGRAMME.
COMPRISING 92 MEN, 80 WOMEN, 45 BOYS AND 64 GIRLS, THEY WERE THE 161ST BATCH TO GO BACK UNDER THE PROGRAMME.
THIS GROUP BROUGHT TO 5,166 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VIETNAMESE MIGRANTS WHO HAVE RETURNED VOLUNTARILY THIS YEAR, AND TO 31,478 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF RETURNEES SINCE THE PROGRAMME STARTED IN MARCH 1989.
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/24........
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 1993
- 24 -
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 2,380
REVERSAL OF LAF -380
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY -180
CLOSING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,820
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.2 *-0.3* 27.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.79 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 101.44 3.43
1 MONTH 2.81 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.67 3.60
3 MONTHS 2.81 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 4.75 99.86 3.87
6 MONTHS 3.02 PCT 24 MONTHS 2508 4.625 101.08 4.09
12 MONTHS 3.27 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 12,137 MN
CLOSED 27 AUGUST 1993
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DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
SATURDAY, AUGUST 2.8, 1993
CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
ALLIED GROUP INVESTIGATION .....................
HUMAN RIGHTS ANIMATION ON TV ...................
13,278 BENEFIT FROM FREE LEGAL. SERVICE .....................
DISPLAY OF REGISTRATION MARKS AND PLATES ....................
REGIONAL COUNCIL DELEGATION ON LEARNING TRIP
GOOD PROGRESS IN REGISTRATION OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS
SUNDAY, AUGUST 29, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
PUBLIC URGED TO HELP IMPROVE POSTAI SERVICES ........................ 5
OVER 5 Mil,LION PFOPLF CONSULT CNTA'S ENQUIRY SERVICE ............... 6
SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 1993
1
ALLIED GROUP INVESTIGATION *****
THE INSPECTOR APPOINTED TO INVESTIGATE CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS RELATED TO THE ALLIED GROUP SUBMITTED HIS REPORT TO THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TODAY (SATURDAY), A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID.
MR NICHOLAS ALLEN OF COOPERS AND LYBRAND WAS APPOINTED AN INSPECTOR UNDER SECTION 143(1)(C) OF THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE IN AUGUST 1992 TO INVESTIGATE THE AFFAIRS OF THE ALLIED GROUP LIMITED AND FOUR OTHER RELATED COMPANIES.
A FURTHER APPOINTMENT WAS MADE IN OCTOBER 1992 TO EXTEND THE SCOPE OF THE INSPECTION TO ANOTHER 22 COMPANIES.
’’THE INSPECTION REPORT IS BEING SUBMITTED TO THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY UNDER SECTION 146 OF THE COMPANIES ORDINANCE.
"THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY WILL NOW EXAMINE IN DETAIL THE FACTS IDENTIFIED DURING THE INSPECTION BEFORE DECIDING ON THE NEXT COURSE OF ACTION,’’ THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
’’THE INTENTION REMAINS THAT THE REPORT WILL BE PUBLISHED AS FULLY AS POSSIBLE SUBJECT TO LEGAL ADVICE," HE ADDED.
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HUMAN RIGHTS ANIMATION ON TV *****
MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC WILL NOW HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SEE THE WIDELY ACCLAIMED UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS ANIMATION ON TVB PEARL FROM 11 AM TO 11.30 AM ON MONDAY (AUGUST 30).
THE SCREENING WAS INITIATED BY THE COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION AS PART OF THE ONGOING PUBLICITY EFFORT TO PROMOTE HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION IN HONG KONG.
THIS ANIMATED PRODUCTION IS JOINTLY PRODUCED BY A GROUP OF WELL-KNOWN ANIMATORS FROM AROUND THE WORLD TO VIVIDLY PRESENT THE ARTICLES OF THE UNITED NATIONS DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS IN AN IMPRESSIVE AND YET ARTISTICALLY SENSITIVE MANNER.
AS THE ANIMATION OF EACH CLAUSE OF THE DECLARATION IS CREATED BY A DIFFERENT ANIMATOR, IT WILL BE INTERESTING TO NOTE THE UNIQUE STYLE OF THE ANIMATORS IN PUTTING ACROSS THE HUMAN RIGHTS MESSAGES.
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION, DR DANIEL TSE, SAID THE COMMITTEE HAD FOCUSSED ON HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION IN THE LAST TWO YEARS THROUGH A HOST OF EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES INCLUDING RADIO BROADCASTS, EXHIBITIONS, DEBATES, TELELINE SERVICE AND THE PRODUCTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION CARDS AND COMIC BOOKS.
HE SAID: "WE ALL APPRECIATE THE FACT THAT HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION TENDS TO BE ABSTRACT AND CONCEPTUAL, THE MESSAGES HAVE TO BE DELIVERED IN SUCH A WAY THAT PEOPLE FIND THEM ACCEPTABLE AND INTERESTING.
/"WE BELIEVE
SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 1993
2
"WE BELIEVE THAT THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION ON HUMAN RIGHTS ANIMATION WILL TURN OUT TO BE THE MOST ENJOYABLE AND INSPIRING TV PROGRAMME ON HUMAN RIGHTS FOR THE FAMILY."
DR TSE ADDED THAT FOR THOSE WHO ARE INTERESTED, MORE INFORMATION ON HUMAN RIGHTS IS AVAILABLE AT THE CIVIC EDUCATION RESOURCE CENTRE ON THE 29TH FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE, WAN CHAI.
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13,278 BENEFIT FROM FREE LEGAL SERVICE
*****
ABOUT 13,278 PEOPLE HAVE MADE USE OF THE FREE LEGAL ADVICE SCHEME ADMINISTERED BY THE 20 PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRES (PESCS) UNDER THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION (CNTA) DURING THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR.
A CNTA SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SATURDAY) THAT A TOTAL OF 1,427 REFERRALS WERE SUBSEQUENTLY MADE TO THE HONG KONG LAW SOCIETY, WHICH CO-ORGAN1SES THE SCHEME.
- THE FIGURES WERE 10,932 AND 1,192 RESPECTIVELY IN THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
A MAJORITY OF THE CASES INVOLVED MATRIMONIAL, MONETARY, COMMERCIAL MATTERS AND COMPENSATION OR DAMAGES FOR TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, FIRE AND PROFESSIONAL NEGLIGENCE.
ON THE SERVICE ITSELF, THE SPOKESMAN SAID THE APPLICANTS WOULD BE FIRST INTERVIEWED BY PESC STAFF TO IDENTIFY THEIR NEEDS.
ARRANGEMENT WILL THEN BE MADE FOR THEM TO SEE DUTY LAWYERS ATTENDING THE EVENING BUREAUS SITUATED AT FIVE DISTRICT OFFICES IN WAN CHAI, YAU TSIM, KWUN TONG, TSUEN WAN AND SHA TIN.
FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE SCHEME CAN BE OBTAINED FROM ANY OF THE PESCS OR THE CNTA’S CENTRAL TELEPHONE ENQUIRY CENTRE ON TELEPHONE 835 2500.
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DISPLAY OF REGISTRATION MARKS AND PLATES
*****
MOTOR CAR OWNERS ARE REQUIRED BY LAW TO DISPLAY ON THE CAR REGISTRATION MARK ASSIGNED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ARRANGEMENT, PROPORTIONS, FORM AND SIZE.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SAID UNDER THE ROAD TRAFFIC (REGISTRATION AND LICENSING OF VEHICLES) REGULATIONS, THE LETTERS AND NUMERALS OF THE REGISTRATION MARK WERE TO BE DISPLAYED AS TWO SEPARATE GROUPS.
/ALL LETTERS .......
SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 1993
3
ALL LETTERS AND NUMERALS ARE TO APPEAR IN SIMPLE BLOCK FORM, OTHER STYLES SUCH AS ITALICS ARE NOT PERMITTED, HE SAID.
THE HEIGHT OF ALL LETTERS AND NUMERALS SHOULD BE NO LESS THAN EIGHT CENTIMETRES AND NOT MORE THAN 11 CENTIMETRES HIGH FOR ALL VEHICLES, EXCEPT OF INVALID CARRIAGES AND MOTORCYCLES, THEY SHOULD BE NO LESS THAN FIVE CENTIMETRES AND NOT MORE THAN 11 CENTIMETRES HIGH, HE ADDED.
”IT IS THEREFORE IN THEIR OWN INTEREST THAT VEHICLE OWNERS SHOULD ONLY DISPLAY A NUMBER PLATE THAT COMPLIED WITH THE SPECIFICATION PROVIDED UNDER THE LAW,” THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
ANY CAR OWNER WHO CONTRAVENES THE REGULATION IS LIABLE TO A FINE OF $2,000, HE SAID.
REGIONAL COUNCIL DELEGATION ON LEARNING TRIP
******
A GROUP OF REGIONAL COUNCILLORS LEFT TODAY (SATURDAY) FOR FRANCE AND GERMANY TO VISIT RECREATIONAL AND CULTURAL FACILITIES IN THE TWO COUNTRIES.
THE DELEGATION, HEADED BY THE REGIONAL COUNCIL CHAIRMAN, MR CHEUNG YAN-LUNG, WILL STOP AT MONTPELLIER, PARIS, BERLIN AND MUNICH DURING THE 13-DAY TRIP.
THE DELEGATES ARE ACCOMPANIED BY THE DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL SERVICES, MR ADOLF HSU AND THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL SERVICES (CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT), MISS CHOI SUK-KUEN.
TOP ON THEIR ITINERARY ARE VISITS TO LIBRARIES, MUSEUMS, PARKS, THEATRES AND SPORTS STADIUMS AND THE RESPECTIVE MANAGING ORGANISATIONS IN THE HOST CITIES.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE REGIONAL COUNCIL SAID SUCH VISITS WOULD ENABLE COUNCIL MEMBERS TO BUILD UP CONTACTS WITH THEIR OVERSEAS COUNTERPARTS AND TO LEARN FROM THEIR EXPERIENCES IN THE PROVISIONS OF RECREATIONAL AND CULTURAL FACILITIES AND SERVICES.
COUNCILLORS WOULD ALSO PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO POLICIES AND OPERATING SYSTEMS EMPLOYED BY THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN MARKETING, FACILITY MANAGEMENT, PROGRAMMING AND FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENT FOR FUTURE REFERENCE, HE SAID.
ANOTHER COUNCIL DELEGATION HAND DEPARTED FOR FRANCE AND GERMANY ON AUGUST 21 TO STUDY A HOST OF MATTERS RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE SERVICES.
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/4........
SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 1993
4
GOOD PROGRESS IN REGISTRATION OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS
*****
REGISTRATION OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS UNDER THE ELECTRIC TTY ORDINANCE HAS BEEN PROGRESSING SMOOTHLY AND SATISFACTORILY, THE DIRECTOR OF ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES, MR KWOK PING-KI, SAID THIS (SATURDAY) EVENING.
MR KWOK NOTED THAT THE ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT (EMSD) HAD NOW REGISTERED ABOUT 53,000 ELECTRICAL WORKERS AND 6,800 ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS SINCE THE ENACTMENT OF THE ELECTRICITY (REGISTRATION) REGULATIONS IN NOVEMBER 1990.
HE WAS SPEAKING AT THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER OF THE HONG KONG AND KOWLOON ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING AND APPLIANCES TRADE WORKERS’ UNION.
UNDER THE REGULATIONS, ALL WORK ON THE FIXED ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS MUST BE CARRIED OUT BY REGISTERED ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, WHO IN TURN MUST EMPLOY REGISTERED ELECTRICAL WORKERS, HE ADDED.
MR KWOK PRAISED THE UNION FOR RUNNING A BULK REGISTRATION SCHEME TO HELP EMSD MAKE THE REGISTRATION EXERCISE A SUCCESS.
UNDER THIS SCHEME, MR KWOK CONTINUED, THE UNION PRE-VETTE3 THE QUALIFICATIONS OF ITS MEMBERS WHO INTENDED TO REGISTER WITH EMSD AND THEN CERTIFIED TRUE COPIES OF ALL THEIR RELEVANT SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS.
’’THE SCHEME NOT ONLY PROVIDES A CONVENIENT MEANS FOR YOUR MEMBERS TO GET REGISTERED BUT ALSO SAVES US A LOT OF MANPOWER IN PROCESSING APPLICATIONS.
’’SO FAR THERE HAVE BEEN OVER 10,000 MEMBERS OF YOUR UNION WHO HAVE SUCCESSFULLY REGISTERED BY THIS MEANS,” HE ADDED.
MEANWHILE, MR KWOK NOTED THAT THE UNION JOINTLY ORGANISED WITH EMSD IN AUGUST 1991 AND JANUARY LAST YEAR TWO EXAMINATIONS FOR ELECTRICAL WORKERS WITHOUT FORMAL ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS, ENABLING THEM TO BE REGISTERED.
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/5........
SUNDAY, AUGUST 29, 1993
5
PUBLIC URGED TO HELP IMPROVE POSTAL SERVICES
*****
POSTAL SERVICES ARE SUCH AN ACCEPTED PART OF OUR EVERYDAY SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FABRIC THAT IT IS ALL TOO EASY TO TAKE THEM FOR GRANTED.
WHAT IS OFTEN NOT FULLY REALISED IS THE EFFORT THE POST OFFICE PUT IN TO MAKE PROPER DELIVERY OF EVERY SINGLE LETTER TO YOUR MAIL BOX, AND SOMETIMES RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR.
THE PUBLIC OFTEN DO NOT REALISE THAT BY PUTTING A LITTLE BIT OF EFFORT THEY CAN HELP IMPROVE POSTAL SERVICES.
CONTROLLER OF POSTS (MANAGEMENT CONTROL), MRS ELLEN SIU, SAID THE POST OFFICE WAS GEARED TO FURTHER IMPROVE SERVICES. BUT MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC HAVE A PART TO PLAY TOO.
"NOTHING EXEMPLIFIES THE REAL SPIRIT OF PUBLIC SERVICE BETTER THAN THE WAY IN WHICH POST OFFICE IS PREPARED TO REACH OUT TO MEET THE POSTAL NEEDS OF CITIZENS HERE. BUT WE TOO WANT THEIR HELP," MRS SIU SAID.
SHE GIVES A FEW TIPS THAT MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC CAN FOLLOW:
* THE RECEIVER’S ADDRESS ON THE MAIL ITEM SHOULD BE WRITTEN AS CLEARLY AND AS DETAILED AS POSSIBLE. USE THE FIRST LINE FOR FLAT AND FLOOR NUMBERS AND NAME OF BUILDING. THE SECOND LINE FOR THE NUMBER OF BUILDING AND NAME OF STREET. THE THIRD LINE FOR NAME OF THE DISTRICT AND THE FOURTH FOR HONG KONG, KOWLOON OR NEW TERRITORIES AS APPROPRIATE;
* FOR OVERSEAS MAIL, THE POSTAL DISTRICT NUMBER OR POSTAL CODE, NAME OF COUNTY, STATE OR PROVINCE, AND NAME OF COUNTRY SHOULD APPEAR IN THE LOWEST FOUR LINES OF THE ADDRESS;
* A TYPED OR A MACHINE-PRINTED IN ROMAN TYPE, RATHER THAN A HANDWRITTEN ADDRESS IS PREFERRED;
* STAMP SHOULD BE AFFIXED ONTO THE TOP RIGHT-HAND CORNER OF THE MAIL ITEM, FOR PROCESSING BY THE STAMP CANCELLING MACHINE;
* USE ENVELOPES OF WHICH THE SIZE FALLS WITHIN THE PERMISSIBLE RANGE. THE MINIMUM SIZE IS 90 MM TIMES 140 MM, THE MAXIMUM SIZE IS 167 MM TIMES 260 MM.
* FOLLOW THE POSTAL REQUIREMENTS ON THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT OF PARCEL. NORMALLY THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT IS 10 KILOGRAMS ALTHOUGH SOME DESTINATIONS ALLOW A MAXIMUM OF 15 TO 20 KILOGRAMS; AND
* PACK, WRAP AND SEAL A PARCEL PROPERLY TO AVOID DAMAGE, DELAY OR EVEN DETENTION OF THE ITEMS.
MRS SIU SAID SINCE 1990, THE POST OFFICE HAD BEEN USING THE MECHANISED LETTER SORTING SYSTEM (MLSS) TO SORT MAIL.
/THIS SYSTEM .......
SUNDAY, AUGUST 29, 1993
6
THIS SYSTEM IS THE FIRST IN THE WORLD TO USE MODERN OPTICAL CHARACTER RECOGNITION AND VIDEO CODING TECHNOLOGY WITHOUT THE BENEFIT OF POSTCODES.
THE MLSS, INSTALLED AT THE TWO MAJOR MAIL PROCESSING CENTRES, OPERATES AN AUTOMATIC LETTER SORTING PROCESS BY SCANNING AN ADDRESS AND PRINTING BAR CODES ON THE ENVELOPE FOR DISTRIBUTION TO POSTMEN.
SHE SAID THOSE HANDWRITTEN ADDRESSES TOO ROUGH TO SEE OR NOT IN NORMAL FORMAT HAVE TO BE PROCESSED MANUALLY. IT WOULD CUT DOWN THE NUMBER OF ITEMS PROCESSED FROM 20,000 AN HOUR TO ONLY 1,500 AN HOUR.
MANUAL PROCESSING IS ALSO REQUIRED ON LETTERS WITH IMPROPER ATTACHMENT OF STAMPS.
"THE POST OFFICE IS NOW TURNING AROUND MORE THAN 2.7 MILLION MAIL ITEMS EACH DAY. NATURALLY, WE RELY ON MECHANISATION AND AUTOMATION AS FAR AS POSSIBLE TO DO THE JOB," MRS SIU SAID.
"WITH PUBLIC CO-OPERATION, I AM SURE THAT MAIL CAN BE PROCESSED MORE EFFICIENTLY AND THAT IT CAN REACH ADDRESSES FASTER," SHE ADDED.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WISHING TO OBTAIN FURTHER INFORMATION ON. HOW TO HELP IMPROVE THE SERVICE MAY CALL THE POST OFFICE ENQUIRY BUREAU OR READ THE GUIDANCE BOOKLETS WHICH CAN BE OBTAINED FREE FROM POST OFFICES.
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OVER 5 MILLION PEOPLE CONSULT CNTA’S ENQUIRY SERVICE *****
THE PUBLIC ENQUIRY SERVICE CENTRES OF THE CITY AND NEW TERRITORIES ADMINISTRATION (CNTA) SERVED MORE THAN 5.2 MILLION PEOPLE DURING THE FIRST HALF OF THIS YEAR.
THIS ALSO INCLUDED THE NUMBER OF ENQUIRIES HANDLED BY THE ADMINISTRATION’S CENTRAL TELEPHONE ENQUIRY CENTRE (CTEC), TOTALLING 64,806.
THE CENTRES SERVED ABOUT 4.4 MILLION PEOPLE IN THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR, A CNTA SPOKESMAN SAID TODAY (SUNDAY).
THE 20 CENTRES, LOCATED CONVENIENTLY THROUGHOUT THE TERRITORY, PROVIDE A WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC SUCH AS ADMINISTERING DECLARATIONS AND OATHS, MAKING REFERRALS UNDER THE FREE LEGAL ADVICE SCHEME AND THE RENT OFFICER SCHEME.
THEY ALSO HELP IN THE DISTRIBUTION OF GOVERNMENT FORMS, LEAFLETS AND VARIOUS PUBLICITY MATERIALS AND HANDLE GENERAL ENQUIRIES ON GOVERNMENT SERVICES.
A TOTAL OF 237,873 DECLARATIONS AND OATHS WERE ADMINISTERED FROM JANUARY TO JUNE THIS YEAR, THE MORE POPULAR TOPICS BEING DECLARATIONS OF TRUE COPY OF DOCUMENT AND FOR THE PURPOSES OF EDUCATION, EXAMINATION AND EMIGRATION.
/DURING THE .......
SUNDAY, AUGUST 29, 1993
7
DURING THE PERIOD, THE RATING AND VALUATION DEPARTMENT RENT OFFICERS, WHO ATTEND THE 15 DISTRICT OFFICES REGULARLY, HANDLED 6,773 ENQUIRIES ON RENT AND TENANCY RELATED PROBLEMS.
MOREOVER, 1,427 CASES WERE REFERRED TO THE HONG KONG LAW SOCIETY UNDER THE FREE LEGAL ADVICE SCHEME.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY CALL THE CTEC HOTLINE 835 2500 DURING OFFICE HOURS FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE SERVICES.
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Received by PRQ on - ? SEP TO3
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
MONDAY, AUGUST 30, 19<>3
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
1991 LEGCO POLLS FAIR: SURVEY ................................ 1
SHOW TO HELP DISABLED INTEGRATE .............................. 3
SPECIAL TRANSPORT SERVICES FOR TIU KENG LENG STUDENTS ........ 4
MORE JOB BAZAARS FOR LOCAL WORKERS ........................... 5
GIANT POSTER TO CELEBRATE CYC 15TH ANNIVERSARY ............... 6
1
MONDAY, AUGUST 30, 1993
1991 LEGCO POLLS FAIR: SURVEY * * * * *
THE PUBLIC WAS OF THE VIEW THAT THE GOVERNMENT HAD CONDUCTED THE 1991 LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DIRECT ELECTIONS IN A FAIR AND OBJECTIVE MANNER, ACCORDING TO A SURVEY COMMISSIONED BY THE COMMITTEE ON THE PROMOTION OF CIVIC EDUCATION.
WHILE THE POLLS WERE CONSIDERED TO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE PROCESS OF DEMOCRATISATION IN THE TERRITORY, THE VOTERS’ CHOICES IN THE ELECTIONS WERE FOUND TO BE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE OVERALL ELECTORATE.
THE MASS MEDIA HAD REPORTED ON THE ELECTIONS ADEQUATELY AND IMPARTIALLY.
ON THE WHOLE, THE SURVEY AFFIRMED, THE POLLING EXERCISE WAS CONSIDERED BY THE VOTERS AND NON-VOTERS TO HAVE BEEN A SUCCESS.
IN THEIR STUDY OF THE VOTING BEHAVIOUR IN THE 1991 LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DIRECT ELECTIONS, DR LOUIE KIN-SHEUN AND MISS WAN PO-SAN OF THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG (THE FORMER BEING A SENIOR LECTURER WITH THE CITY POLYTECHNIC OF HONG KONG NOW) CONTACTED 3,122 PEOPLE FROM A RANDOM SAMPLE BETWEEN MAY 15 AND JULY 3 LAST YEAR.
A TOTAL OF 1,515 PEOPLE AGED BETWEEN 21 AND 69 WERE SUCCESSFULLY INTERVIEWED, REPRESENTING A RESPONSE RATE OF 48.5 PER CENT.
APART FROM THE PROFILE AND BACKGROUND OF THOSE WHO VOTED AS WELL AS THOSE WHO DID NOT, THEY ALSO EXPLORED WHY MORE THAN 40 PER CENT OF THOSE ELIGIBLE HAVE NOT REGISTERED AND WHY MANY WHO HAVE REGISTERED DID NOT TURN OUT AND CAST THEIR VOTE.
AS REGARDS THOSE WHO DID CAST THEIR BALLOTS, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE ELECTORS WERE MOTIVATED BY A VARIETY OF FACTORS ALTHOUGH THE MOTIVE TO ’’FULFIL A CITIZEN’S DUTY” WAS THE FOREMOST GIVEN REASON (84.4 PER CENT).
BUT, POLITICALLY RELATED REASONS SUCH AS THE "HOPE TO INFLUENCE GOVERNMENT POLICIES” (74.6 PER CENT) AND THE "HOPE TO FACILITATE HONG KONG’S DEMOCRATISATION” (74.2 PER CENT) WERE ALSO IMPORTANT MOTIVATING FACTORS.
AS FOR THOSE WHO ABSTAINED FROM VOTING, THE MAIN REASON CIT^P WAS INSUFFICIENT KNOWLEDGE OF THE CANDIDATES (64.2 PER CENT).
OTHER CAUSES INCLUDED THE FEELING THAT THEIR VOTES WOULD NOT HAVE MUCH INFLUENCE ON THE ELECTORAL OUTCOME (45.5 PER CENT) AND THAT NO SATISFACTORY CANDIDATE COULD BE FOUND IN THE CONSTITUENCY (32.5 PER CENT).
HOWEVER, THE REPORT WAS QUICK TO POINT OUT THAT THE ABSTAINERS’ DECISION NOT TO VOTE WAS NOT BECAUSE THEY HAD NO TRUST OR FAITH IN THE SYSTEM.
ON THE REASONS FOR NON-REGISTRATION, THE SURVEY FOUND THAT THE LACK,OF POLITICAL INTEREST (63.6 PER CENT) WAS THE MOST IMPORTANT. RESIDENTIAL MOBILITY - MOVING HOUSE - ALSO EXERTED A SIGNIFICANT DEPRESSING EFFECT ON THE REGISTRATION RATE.
/PERSONAL FACTORS .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 30, 1993
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PERSONAL FACTORS SUCH AS AGE, SEX, EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS AND INCOME LEVEL EXERTED A CONSIDERABLE DEGREE OF INFLUENCE ON THE RATES OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND VOTING TURNOUT.
PEOPLE WITH HIGHER INCOME AND HIGHER EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT HAD A HIGHER RATE OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND VOTING TURNOUT, ACCORDING TO THE SURVEY.
AS TO THE CRITERIA FOR SELECTION OF CANDIDATES, NEARLY ALL THE ELECTORS PLACED A HEAVY EMPHASIS ON THEIR ABILITY (88.7 PER CENT); COURAGE (80.8 PER CENT) AND POLITICAL PLATFORM (78.8 PER CENT).
THE SURVEY ALSO FOUND THAT NON-PARTICIPATION BY THOSE WHO HAVE NOT REGISTERED OR THOSE WHO HAVE NOT VOTED WAS NOT DUE TO ANY ADMINISTRATIVE BARRIER OR BURDENSOME ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENT.
IT WAS PROBABLY DUE TO SOME LONG-TERM UNDERLYING ATTITUDES EMBEDDED IN THE ELECTORS, IT ADDED.
MEANWHILE, THE RESEARCHERS MADE A NUMBER OF RECOMMENDATIONS:
FIRSTLY, THAT FUTURE REGISTRATION DRIVES AND ELECTORAL PUBLICITY SHOULD GIVE SPECIAL CONSIDERATION TO THE RELATIVELY LESS ADVANTAGED SOCIAL GROUPS - THE LESS EDUCATED AND LOW INCOME EARNERS - SO AS TO REDUCE THE STRUCTURAL IMBALANCE AND TO BOOST THE OVERALL PARTICIPATION RATE.
SECONDLY, THAT ON RESIDENTIAL MOBILITY, MEASURES BE CONCEIVED AND IMPLEMENTED TO FACILITATE THE RE-INTEGRAT I ON OF THE ELECTORS AFTER THEIR MOVING INTO NEW HOMES.
THIRDLY, THAT A MORE SYSTEMATIC METHOD BE IMPLEMENTED TO INTRODUCE THE CANDIDATES TO THE ELECTORATE DURING THE CAMPAIGN PERIOD.
LASTLY, THAT MEASURES BE CONTEMPLATED TO FACILITATE DIRECT CONTACT BETWEEN THE CANDIDATES AND ELECTORS.
BUT EVEN THESE MEASURES COULD ONLY HAVE LIMITED EFFECT ON THE OVERALL ELECTORAL PARTICIPATION RATE IN THE SHORT TERM, THE RESEARCHERS CONCEDED.
IT WAS UNLIKELY THAT THE REGISTRATION AND TURNOUT PROPENSITY OF THE ELECTORS COULD BE SUBSTANTIALLY ENHANCED BY ANY ADMINISTRATIVE OR TECHNICAL ENDEAVOURS.
FOR THIS REASON, ANY CHANGE IN PEOPLE’S ATTITUDES TOWARDS ELECTIONS COULD ONLY BE THE RESULT OF A GENERAL EVOLUTION OF THE SOCIAL AND POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT, AND SUCH A PROCESS WOULD CERTAINLY TAKE TIME, THEY CONCLUDED.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE WELCOME TO COLLECT COPIES OF THE ’’VOTING BEHAVIOUR IN HONG KONG: A STUDY OF THE 199 1 LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DIRECT ELECTIONS” IN ENGLISH AT THE CIVIC EDUCATION RESOURCE CENTRE ON 29TH FLOOR, SOUTHORN CENTRE, 130 HENNESSY ROAD, WAN CHAI. ENQUIRIES CAN BE MADE ON TEL 835 1529.
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SHOW TO HELP DISABLED INTEGRATE ******
A NUMBER OF ENTERTAINMENT CELEBRITIES WILL JOIN EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLORS AND TOP GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS IN AN EXTRAVAGANZA TO PROMOTE THE INTEGRATION OF THE DISABLED INTO THE COMMUNITY ON FRIDAY (SEPTEMBER 3).
TO BE HELD AT THE LYRIC THEATRE OF THE ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS, THE ’’REHABILITATION SPECIAL” IS THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE GOVERNMENT’S PUBLIC EDUCATION PROGRAMME TO ENHANCE AWARENESS OF THE NEEDS OF THE DISABLED.
’’THIS EDUCATION PROGRAMME IS AIMED AT NOT ONLY FIGHTING PREJUDICE AND DISCRIMINATION AGAINST THE DISABLED BUT ALSO PROMOTING EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES AND FULL PARTICIPATION FOR THIS VULNERABLE GROUP,” A SPOKESMAN FOR THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
"IT IS THEREFORE ONLY APPROPRIATE FOR THE ’REHABILITATION SPECIAL’ TO CARRY THE THEME OF ’EQUALITY THROUGH PARTICIPATION’,” THE SPOKESMAN ADDED.
"WE HOPE THAT THROUGH THE CONCERTED EFFORT OF THE BIG NAMES IN THIS SHOW, THE PUBLIC WILL REALISE BOTH THE ABLE-BODIED AND THE DISABLED CAN LIVE AND WORK IN HARMONY,” HE SAID.
THE SHOW WILL FEATURE A CAST OF CELEBRITIES -- INCLUDING EXECUTIVE COUNCILLOR MS ROSANNA WONG, LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR MR HUI YIN-FAT, SECRETARY FOR HOME AFFAIRS MR MICHAEL SUEN, SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE MRS ELIZABETH WONG, AND ENTERTAINMENT FIGURES ELIZA CHAN AND ERIC TSANG -- PRESENTING A NUMBER OF ACTS FROM THE FAVOURITE MUSICAL ’’SOUND OF MUSIC”.
THERE WILL ALSO BE A MEDLEY OF GOLDEN OLDIES SUNG BY LEGISLATIVE COUNCILLOR MR MOSES CHENG, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS OF THE HOSPITAL AUTHORITY DR E K YEOH, MR TONY DICKINSON OF THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH AND MR RAYMOND YOUNG OF THE INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT.
TOGETHER WITH MEMBERS OF THE CITY CONTEMPORARY DANCE COMPANY, A GROUP OF DISABLED DANCERS WILL PERFORM THE MODERN DANCE ’’ACCEPTANCE".
THIS WILL BE FOLLOWED BY A PERFORMANCE FEATURING A BLIND MUSIC STUDENT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG AND VIOLINIST TAKAKO NISHIZAKI.
STARS PARTICIPATING IN THE SHOW INCLUDE JACKIE CHAN, SALLY YEH, GEORGE LAM, ANDY LAU, KAREN MOK, IRENE WAN AND ROSANNE LUI. DO DO CHENG AND ERIC TSANG WILL BE MASTERS OF CEREMONY.
ORGANISED JOINTLY BY THE HEALTH AND WELFARE BRANCH AND RTHK, "REHABILITATION SPECIAL" WILL BE BROADCAST LIVE ON RADIO 2 FROM 8 PM TO 10 PM ON SEPTEMBER 3.
IT WILL BE SCREENED ON TVB JADE FROM 9 PM TO 10.30 PM ON SEPTEMBER 19 (SUNDAY).
/ATTENTION NEWS .......
MONDAY, AUGUST 30, 1993
4
ATTENTION NEWS EDITORS:
YOU ARE WELCOME TO COVER THE ’’REHABILITATION SPECIAL”.
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES ARE REQUESTED TO APPROACH THE RECEPTION DESK AT THE LOBBY OF THE LYRIC THEATRE, ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS, WAN CHAI, FOR ADMISSION TICKETS BEFORE 7.45 PM ON SEPTEMBER 3.
BECAUSE OF LIMITED QUANTITY, EACH MEDIA ORGANISATION WILL BE ENTITLED TO ONLY ONE TICKET. ADMISSION WITHOUT VALID TICKET IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED BY THE ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS.
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SPECIAL TRANSPORT SERVICES FOR TIU KENG LENG STUDENTS
*******
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT TODAY (MONDAY) ANNOUNCED THAT TO FACILITATE STUDENTS IN TIU KENG LENG TO ATTEND SCHOOLS IN HAU TAK ESTATE IN TSEUNG KWAN O, THE FOLLOWING SPECIAL TRANSPORT SERVICES WOULD BE INTRODUCED FROM WEDNESDAY (SEPTEMBER 1):
KOWLOON MOTOR BUS 8 WILL OPERATE EIGHT SPECIAL TRIPS OF BUS ROUTE NO. 90 FROM TIU KENG LENG TO HANG HAU CIRCULAR ROUTE AT 7 AM, 7.15 AM, 7.30 AM, 7.45 AM, 3.25 PM, 3.40 PM, 3.55 PM AND 4.10 PM DAILY FROM MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AT A FARE OF $3 PER SINGLE JOURNEY.
IN THE MEANTIME, THE EXISTING SPECIAL TRIPS OF KMB ROUTE NO. 90 PLYING BETWEEN TIU KENG LENG AND PO LAM WILL BE REPLACED BY THE ABOVE SERVICE.
IN ADDITION, A GREEN MINIBUS NO. 10A WILL BE OPERATED AT A FREQUENCY OF SIX MINUTES BETWEEN 6.45 AM AND 7.45 AM FROM TIU KENG LENG TO HONG SING GARDEN; AND BETWEEN 3.30 PM AND 4.30 PM FROM HONG SING GARDEN TO TIU KENG LENG FROM MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AT A FARE OF $1.5 PER SINGLE JOURNEY.
STUDENTS MAY CHANGE GMB ROUTE NO. 15 OR KMB ROUTE 98A FROM HONG SING GARDEN TO SCHOOLS IN HAU TAK ESTATE.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 30, 1993
- 5 -
MORE JOB BAZAARS FOR LOCAL WORKERS
*******
A LARGE-SCALE JOB BAZAAR WILL BE HELD TOMORROW (TUESDAY) IN SHA TIN TO FACILITATE WORKERS AND LOCAL RESIDENTS TO LOOK FOR JOBS UNDER THE ON-THE-JOB TRAINING SCHEME SET UP BY THE EMPLOYEES RETRAINING BOARD.
THE BAZAAR IS ORGANISED BY THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S LOCAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (LES) AND SPONSORED BY THE BOARD.
IT WILL BE THE SECOND ONE IN A SERIES THAT AIMS AT PROVIDING AN OPPORTUNITY FOR EMPLOYERS AND POTENTIAL EMPLOYEES TO MAKE DIRECT CONTACT AND DISCUSS ABOUT JOB VACANCIES AND EMPLOYMENT.
"IT IS MOST ENCOURAGING THAT THE FIRST JOB BAZAAR HELD IN TSUEN WAN RECENTLY ATTRACTED MORE THAN 1,400 JOB-SEEKERS RESULTING IN ABOUT 900 REFERRALS BEING MADE ON THE SPOT," SENIOR LABOUR OFFICER (EMPLOYMENT SERVICE), MRS BERNADETTE LAI, SAID TODAY (MONDAY).
"IT ALSO SHOWED THAT SIMILAR BAZAARS WILL BE HELPFUL TO JOBSEEKERS WISHING TO SECURE EMPLOYMENT UNDER THE SCHEME AND THOSE WHO WISH TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE SCHEME."
THE BAZAAR WILL BE HELD FROM 11 AM TO 6 PM AT THE EXHIBITION GALLERY OF THE SHA TIN TOWN HALL.
FIFTEEN EMPLOYERS FROM VARIOUS TRADES, INCLUDING CATERING, BEVERAGE, SECURITY, ELECTRONICS, SUPERMARKETS, HOTEL, FAST FOOD AND LAUNDRY, WILL MEET THE PARTICIPANTS.
THEY WILL ALSO BRIEF THEM ABOUT THEIR TRADES AND CONDUCT ON-THE-SPOT INTERVIEWS OR ARRANGE INTERVIEWS AT OTHER DATES.
MEANWHILE, VACANCIES OFFERED BY 206 EMPLOYERS PARTICIPATING IN THE SCHEME WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE BY LABOUR DEPARTMENT’S LES STAFF TO FACILITATE JOB-SEEKERS TO SELECT THEIR PREFERRED JOBS.
SOME EMPLOYERS WILL ALSO GIVE TALKS ON RELATED TRADES TO ACQUAINT JOB-SEEKERS WITH INFORMATION ON JOB OPPORTUNITIES.
"LES STAFF WILL CONDUCT GROUP COUNSELLING SESSION FOR THE POTENTIAL RETRAINEES," MRS LAI SAID.
APPLICANTS UNDER THE SCHEME SHOULD BE HONG KONG RESIDENTS, INCLUDING HOUSEWIVES, WHO ARE 30 YEARS OLD OR ABOVE, AND HAVE WORKED IN A PARTICULAR TRADE FOR NOT LESS THAN TWO YEARS.
SHE SAID ANOTHER TWO BAZAARS OF A SIMILAR NATURE WERE SCHEDULED TO BE HELD FROM 11 AM TO 6 PM ON SEPTEMBER 8 AND 21 AT THE EXHIBITION HALL OF THE SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE AND THE EXHIBITION GALLERY OF THE HONG KONG CULTURAL CENTRE RESPECTIVELY.
EMPLOYERS WHO ARE INTERESTED TO PARTICIPATE CAN CONTACT THE LABOUR DEPARTMENT ON TEL 529 6264 OR 399 2230 FOR DETAILS.
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i
MONDAY, AUGUST 30, 1993
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GIANT POSTER TO CELEBRATE CYC 15TH ANNIVERSARY
*****
SIX FOOTBALL PITCHES AT VICTORIA PARK WILL BE COVERED BY A GIANT POSTER WHEN THE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB (CYC) CELEBRATES ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY IN OCTOBER.
FORMING THE GIANT POSTER, DEPICTING THE 1994 INTERNATIONAL YEAR FOR FAMILY, WILL BE ABOUT 1,200 STUDENTS WHO ARE CYC MEMBERS.
"AFTER THIS COLOURFUL DISPLAY, EACH CARD CAN BE CUT TO BECOME POSTCARDS FOR OTHER STUDENTS TO SEND TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO COMMEMORATE THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR FOR FAMILY," A SPOKESMAN FOR THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT SAID.
TO PREPARE FOR THE POSTER, A GROUP OF CYC MEMBERS HELD A MINI-REHEARSAL AT THE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS.
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Received by PRQ
on , 2 $F? 1993
DAILY INFORMATION BULLETIN
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES BEACONSFIELD HOUSE, HONG KONG. TEL: 842 8777
TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
CONTENTS PAGE NO.
MONETARY STATISTICS FOR JULY 1993 ............................... 1
CITYBUS TO START OPERATING 26 ROUTES TOMORROW ................... 4
HIGHER WAGE FOR FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS ........................ 4
SRC MEETS UNITED DEMOCRATS ON KARAOKE PARLOURS .................. 5
DOMESTIC EXPORT STATISTICS CLASSIFIED BY INDUSTRIAL ORIGIN FOR 2ND QUARTER ............................................... 6
PRE-WAR BUILDING DECLARED DANGEROUS ............................. 9
CAR MARKS UP FOR AUCTION ........................................ 9
WATER STORAGE FIGURE ........................................... 10
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS .............. 11
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS ..
12
TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
1
MONETARY STATISTICS FOR JULY 1993 *****
HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS WITH AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY DURING JULY 1993 UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A HUGE SHARE FLOTATION EXERCISE, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS PUBLISHED TODAY (TUESDAY) BY THE HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY.
CONSISTENT WITH THIS, THE BROADEST HONG KONG DOLLAR MONEY SUPPLY, M3, ROSE IN JULY. HONG KONG DOLLAR LOANS AND ADVANCES ALSO INCREASED DURING THE MONTH.
DEPOSITS
HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS WITH AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS, ADJUSTED TO INCLUDE SWAP DEPOSITS, ROSE BY 4.5% IN JULY FOLLOWING AN INCREASE OF 1.4% IN MAY AND A DECREASE OF 0.2% IN JUNE.
AMONG THESE DEPOSITS, DEMAND DEPOSITS DECREASED BY 3.9% WHILE SAVINGS DEPOSITS AND TIME DEPOSITS INCREASED BY 1.1% AND 8.8% RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, TOTAL HONG KONG DOLLAR DEPOSITS GREW BY 19.0%.
FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS WITH AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS INCREASED BY 0.5% IN JULY, AFTER AN INCREASE OF 0.4% IN MAY AND A DECREASE OF 0.8% IN JUNE RESPECTIVELY.
OF THESE DEPOSITS, U.S. DOLLAR DEPOSITS ROSE BY 1.3% WHILE NONU.S. DOLLAR FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS DECREASED BY 0.3%. YEAR-ON-YEAR, TOTAL FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS GREW BY 9.7%.
DURING JULY, DEPOSITS IN ALL CURRENCIES WITH LICENSED BANKS INCREASED BY 2.4% WHILE DEPOSITS WITH RESTRICTED LICENCE BANKS AND DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES DECREASED BY 1.2% AND 0.1% RESPECTIVELY.
YEAR-ON-YEAR, DEPOSITS WITH LICENSED RANKS GREW BY 15.2% WHILE DEPOSITS WITH RESTRICTED LICENCE BANKS AND DEPOSIT-TAKI NG COMPANIES DECLINED BY 23.0% AND 10.9% RESPECTIVELY.
MONEY SUPPLY
HK$M1 DECREASED BY 1.8% IN JULY WHILE HK$M2 AND HK$M3 INCREASED BY 4.3% AND 4.2% RESPECTIVELY.
THEIR CORRESPONDING GROWTH RATES TN JUNE WERE 5.3%, -0.1% AND
-0.1% RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE MONETARY AGGREGATES INCREASED BY 15.7%, 20.5% AND 19.1% RESPECTIVELY.
TOTAL Ml DECREASED BY 1.7% WHILE TOTAL M2 AND M3 INCREASED BY 2.4% AND 2.3% RESPECTIVELY IN JULY.
/THEIR CORRESPONDING
TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
- 2 -
THEIR CORRESPONDING GROWTH RATES IN JUNE WERE 6.1%, -0.5% AND -0.4% RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE MONETARY AGGREGATES INCREASED BY 15.6%, 15.6% AND 14.4% RESPECTIVELY.
LOANS AND ADVANCES
TOTAL OUTSTANDING LOANS AND ADVANCES EXTENDED BY AUTHORISED INSTITUTIONS INCREASED BY 2.1% IN JULY, FOLLOWING INCREASES OF 2.6% AND 0.7% IN MAY AND JUNE RESPECTIVELY.
AMONG THESE LOANS, HONG KONG DOLLAR LOANS INCREASED BY 3.5% WHILE FOREIGN CURRENCY LOANS INCREASED BY 1.5%. COMPARED WITH A YEAR EARLIER, THESE LOANS INCREASED BY 17.4% AND 18.5% RESPECT IVELY.
LOANS TO FINANCE VISIBLE TRADE OF HONG KONG INCREASED BY 1.4% IN JULY, AFTER INCREASES OF 2.3% AND 3.7% IN MAY AND JUNE RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, SUCH LOANS GREW BY 14.2%.
•OTHER LOANS FOR USE IN HONG KONG INCREASED BY 3.6% IN JULY, FOLLOWING INCREASES OF 1.7% AND 0.8% IN MAY AND JUNE RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR, THESE LOANS INCREASED BY 17.3%.
LOANS FOR USE OUTSIDE HONG KONG INCREASED BY 1.4% IN JULY, AFTER INCREASES OF 3.4% AND 0.4% IN MAY AND JUNE RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON- YEAR, THESE LOANS GREW BY 19.2%.
LOANS TO FINANCE TRADE NOT TOUCHING HONG KONG INCREASED BY 3.2% DURING JULY, AFTER A DECREASE OF 2.0% IN MAY AND AN INCREASE OF 5.1% IN JUNE RESPECTIVELY. YEAR-ON-YEAR., THESE LOANS INCREASED BY 16.3%.
NUMBER OF REPORTING INSTITUTIONS
THE NUMBER OF REPORTING LICENSED BANKS DECREASED BY ONE TO 164. THE NUMBER OF RESTRICTED LICENCE BANKS AND DEPOSIT-TAKING COMPANIES REMAINED UNCHANGED AT 55 AND 112 RESPECTIVELY.
/TABLE 1 : .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
3
TABLE 1 : MONETARY STATISTICS - JUL 1993
(HKSmn)
Money Supply Jul 1993 Earlier months (% change to Jul 1993)
Jun 1993 Apr 1993 JulJ992
Ml -HKS 153,130 156,012 ( -1.8 ) 148,781 ( 2.9 ) 132,296 ( 15.7 )
Foreign currency 18,522 18,629 ( -0.6 ) 15,436 ( 20.0 ) 16,177 ( 14.5 )
Total 171.652 174,641 ( -1.7 ) 164,218 ( 4.5 ) 148,473 ( 15.6 )
M2 - HKS* 835,516 800,744 ( 4.3 ) 790,573 ( 5.7 ) 693,623 ( 20.5 )
Foreign currency* 840,879 836,454 ( 0.5 ) 840,566 ( 0.0 ) 756,977 ( 11.1 )
Total 1,676,394 1,637,199 ( 2.4 ) 1,631,139 ( 2.8 ) 1,450,601 ( 15.6 )
M3 - HKS* 852,041 817,479 ( 4.2 ) 806,388 ( 5.7 ) 715,622 ( 19.1 )
Foreign currency* 873,315 869,001 ( 0.5 ) 870,906 ( 0.3 ) 792.679 ( 10.2 )
Total 1,725,356 1,686,481 ( 2.3 ) 1,677,294 ( 2.9 ) 1,508,301 ( 14.4 )
Notes and coins in circulation 66,768 65,453 ( 2.0 ) 63,439 ( 5.2 ) 54,459 ( 22.6 )
of which held by public 58,954 58,026 ( 1.6 ) 55,300 ( 6.6 ) 47,022 ( 25.4 )
Total Deposits
Total Demand deposits 112,699 116,615 ( -3.4 ) 108,918 ( 3.5 ) 101,451 ( 11.1 )
Total Savings deposits 387,498 385,631 ( 0.5 ) 376.004 ( 3.1 ) 347,454 ( 11.5 )
Total Time deposits with licensed banks 1,097,952 1,058,291 ( 3.7 ) 1,073,448 ( 2.3 ) 938,030 ( 17.0 )
Total Time deposits with restricted licence banks 27,926 28,276 ( -1.2 ) 24,890 ( 12.2 ) 36,257 ( -23.0 )
Total Time deposits with deposit-taking companies 17,853 17,863 ( -0.1 ) 18,211 ( -2.0 ) 20,029 ( -10.9 )
HKS deposits* 779,227 745,951 ( 4.5 ) 737,123 ( 5.7 ) 654,827 ( 19.0 )
USS deposits* 407,846 402,439 ( 1.3 ) 419.309 ( -2.7 ) 334,256 ( 22.0 )
Other foreign currency deposits* 456,855 458,286 ( -0.3 ) 445,039 ( 2.7 ) 454,138 ( 0.6 )
All deposits 1,643,927 1,606,675 ( 2.3 ) 1,601,472 ( 2.7 ) 1,443,221 ( 13.9 )
Foreign currency swap deposits 63,029 60,975 ( 3.4 ) 61,171 ( 3.0 ) 46,747 ( 34.8 )
Total Loans and advances
To finance H.K.’s visible trade 103,856 102,422 ( 1.4 ) 96,531 ( 7.6 ) 90,945 ( 14.2 )
To finance merchandising trade not touching H.K. 13,020 12,612 ( 3.2 ) 12,237 ( 6.4 ) 11,196 ( 16.3 )
Other loans for use in H.K. 1,037,321 1,000.948 ( 3.6 ) 975,635 ( 6.3 ) 884,492 ( 17.3 )
Other loans for use outside H.K. 1,641,384 1,619,041 ( 1.4 ) 1,559,887 ( 5.2 ) 1,377,519 ( 19.2 )
Other loans where the place of use is not known 41,766 42,678 ( -2.1 ) 43,272 ( -3.5 ) 38,022 ( 9.8 )
Loans in HKS 926,190 894.935 ( 3.5 ) 866,327 ( 6.9 ) 789,201 ( 17.4 )
Loans in foreign currencies 1,911,157 1,882.765 ( 1.5 ) 1,821,234 ( 4.9 ) 1,612,973 ( 18.5 )
Total loans and advances 2,837,347 2,777.701 ( 2.1 ) 2,687,562 ( 5.6 ) 2,402,174 ( 18.1 )
* Adjusted for foreign currency swap deposits. Starting from April 1991. swap deposits can further be broken down into US dollar and non-US dollar foreign currency swap deposits.
Note : 'Restricted licence banks' and 'deposit-taking companies’ were known as 'licensed deposit-taking companies' and 'registered deposit-taking companies’ respectively before 1 February 1990.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
CITYBUS TO START OPERATING * * * *
26 ROUTES TOMORROW »
CITYBUS HAS COMPLETED ALL PREPARATORY WORK AND IS SET TO START OPERATING 26 ROUTES TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY).
THE PACKAGE, KNOWN AS "NETWORK 26", INCLUDES 24 ROUTES ON HONG KONG ISLAND AND TWO CROSS-HARBOUR ROUTES.
THEY ARE ROUTES 1, 5, 5A, 5B, 10X, 12, 12M, 6, 6A, 48, 61, 70,
70M, 72, 72A, 72B, 75, 76, 90, 92, 96, 97, 97A, 98, 107 AND 170.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SAID TODAY (TUESDAY) PASSENGERS ON THESE ROUTES SHOULD LOOK FOR THE CITYBUS BUS STOP SIGN WHICH WAS YELLOW INSTEAD OF THE USUAL BLUE SIGN OF THE CHINA MOTOR BUS COMPANY.
WITH THE EXCEPTION ON ROUTE 5B, THERE ARE NO CHANGE TO THE ROUTEING OF THESE SERVICES.
ROUTE 5B WILL OPERATE ALONG CONNAUGHT ROAD CENTRAL INSTEAD OF DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL IN THE DIRECTION TOWARDS CAUSEWAY BAY.
HE SAID PASSENGERS WHO WERE AGED 60 AND OVER WOULD ENJOY HALF FARE ON THE CITYBUS’ HONG KONG ISLAND ROUTES. ON THE TWO CROSS-HARBOUR ROUTES, HALF FARE WERE OFFERED TO PASSENGERS AGED 65 AND OVER.
THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT WILL SET UP A CO-ORDINATION CENTRE TO MONITOR THE SMOOTH TRANSFER OF THE 26 ROUTES FROM CMB TO CITYBUS TO ENSURE THAT THERE WILL BE NO DISRUPTION TO SERVICES TOMORROW.
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HIGHER WAGE FOR FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS
*****
THE GOVERNMENT TODAY (TUESDAY) ANNOUNCED A CHANGE IN THE WAGE REQUIREMENT FOR THE EMPLOYMENT OF FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS.
EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS NOTARISED BY RELEVANT CONSULATES FROM SEPTEMBER I (WEDNESDAY) MUST CARRY A WAGE NOT BELOW $3,500 A MONTH BEFORE SUBMISSION TO IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT FOR PROCESSING.
RE-ENGAGEMENT CONTRACTS NOTARISED BEFORE SEPTEMBER 1 SHOULD ALSO CARRY THE NEW WAGE IF SUCH CONTRACTS DO NOT TAKE EFFECT BEFORE OCTOBER I.
A GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN SAID THE LEVEL OF WAGE INCREASE OF $300 A MONTH HAD TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT THE CURRENT WAGE LEVEL OF LOCAL DOMESTIC HELPERS.
/"COMPARED WITH .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
- 5 -
’’COMPARED WITH THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN OTHER COUNTRIES IN THE REGION, FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS IN HONG KONG ENJOY FAVOURABLE WAGES," THE SPOKESMAN SAID.
AT PRESENT THERE ARE MORE THAN 100,000 FOREIGN DOMESTIC HELPERS WORKING IN HONG KONG, MOSTLY FROM THE PHILIPPINES.
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SRC MEETS UNITED DEMOCRATS ON KARAOKE PARLOURS * * * * *
THE ACTING SECRETARY FOR RECREATION AND CULTURE, MRS RACHEL CARTLAND, TODAY (TUESDAY) MET WITH UNITED DEMOCRAT REPRESENTATIVES MR JAMES TO KUN-SUN AND MR LEE TIN-KIU TO DISCUSS THEIR CONCERN ABOUT THE NEED TO CONTROL UNDESIRABLE KARAOKE PARLOURS AND WHETHER THIS COULD BE DEALT WITH IN THE CURRENT REVIEW ON THE PLACES OF PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT ORDINANCE (PPEO).
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE RECREATION AND CULTURE BRANCH SAID THE MEETING WAS BOTH CORDIAL AND CONSTRUCTIVE AND THERE WAS A USEFUL EXCHANGE OF VIEWS.
THE SPOKESMAN ADDED: "AN INTER-DEPARTMENTAL WORKING GROUP IS CONSIDERING THE SUITABILITY OR OTHERWISE OF INCLUDING KARAOKE PARLOURS UNDER THE PPEO.
"ONE ASPECT OF THE CURRENT REVIEW OF THE PPEO IS THE UPDATING OF THE DEFINITION OF "ENTERTAINMENT" AND IT IS FOR CONSIDERATION WHETHER KARAOKE SHOULD BE INCLUDED."
THE REVIEW OF THE PPEO HAS BEEN A RATHER LONG PROCESS BECAUSE OF THE COMPLEXITY OF SOME OF THE ISSUES INVOLVED.
"HOWEVER, WE ARE GLAD THAT THE REVIEW IS NOW NEARING COMPLETION AND WE EXPECT TO INTRODUCE A BILL TO OVERHAUL THE PPEO INTO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL IN THE FORTHCOMING SESSION," HE SAID.
THE REAL PROBLEM IS WITH VICE ACTIVITIES RATHER THAN WITH THE PROVISION OF KARAOKE SERVICE PER SE, HE ADDED.
"IN PARALLEL, THE GOVERNMENT WAS LOOKING INTO THE QUESTION OF AN APPROPRIATE LICENSING REGIME FOR KARAOKE PARLOURS AND WHETHER OR NOT THIS SHOULD BE UNDER THE PPEO."
IT WAS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE POLICE TO TAKE ENFORCEMENT ACTION AGAINST ANY VICE ACTIVITIES WHICH MIGHT BE ASSOCIATED WITH KARAOKE PARLOURS, THE SPOKESMAN ADDED, AND THE AIM WAS TO PROVIDE THEM WITH APPROPRIATE LEGISLATIVE TOOLS TO MAKE THE POLICE ACTION AS EFFECTIVE AS POSSIBLE.
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
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DOMESTIC EXPORT STATISTICS CLASSIFIED BY INDUSTRIAL ORIGIN FOR 2ND QUARTER *****
THE THREE MAJOR INDUSTRY GROUPS OF TEXTILES, WEARING APPAREL, AND CONSUMER ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS TOGETHER ACCOUNTED FOR 54% OF HONG KONG’S TOTAL DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF MANUFACTURED GOODS IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993, ACCORDING TO STATISTICS RELEASED TODAY (TUESDAY) BY THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT.
DOMESTIC EXPORTS OF TEXTILES AND WEARING APPAREL DECREASED BY 11% AND 4% FROM A YEAR EARLIER TO $11.2 BILLION AND $9.2 BILLION RESPECTIVELY IN THE SECOND QUARTER OF 1993. THOSE OF CONSUMER ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS ALSO DROPPED, BY 11% TO $8.7 BILLION.
AS FOR THE OTHER INDUSTRY GROUPS, ABSOLUTE INCREASE IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS WAS FOUND ONLY IN THE GROUP OF MACHINERY, EQUIPMENT, APPARATUS, PARTS AND COMPONENTS (+$859 MILLION OR +13%).
ON THE OTHER HAND, INDUSTRY GROUPS WHICH RECORDED THE MORE NOTABLE ABSOLUTE DECREASES IN THE VALUE OF DOMESTIC EXPORTS INCLUDED PROFESSIONAL AND OPTICAL EQUIPMENT (-$746 MILLION OR -16%); PLASTIC PRODUCTS (-$313 MILLION OR -18%); AND BASIC METALS AND FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS (-$168 MILLION OR -7%).
FOR THE PRODUCTS OF TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT INDUSTRY AND THE FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY, ALTHOUGH THE ABSOLUTE VALUES OF THE CHANGES WERE NOT AS LARGE, MARKED PERCENTAGE DECLINES OF 42% AND 33% RESPECTIVELY WERE REGISTERED.
THE ABOVE STATISTICS ON DOMESTIC EXPORTS ANALYSED BY INDUSTRIAL ORIGIN ARE DERIVED BY RF.-GROUPING THE MERCHANDISE EXPORT ITEMS ORIGINALLY GROUPED 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 INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION USED IS THE HONG KONG STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION (HSIC). THE HSIC IS TO BE DISTINGUISHED FROM THE UNITED NATIONS STANDARD INTERNATIONAL TRADE CLASSIFICATION (SITC) USED IN THE REGULAR TRADE STATISTICS REPORTS.
IN COMPARISON, THE HSIC IS MORE RELATED TO PRODUCTION PROCESSES WHEREAS THE SITC IS MORE GEARED TO END USES OF PRODUCTS.
CAUTION SHOULD BE TAKEN WHEN REFERRING TO THESE DOMESTIC EXPORT STATISTICS CLASSIFIED BY INDUSTRIAL ORIGIN. THERE MAY BE SEVERAL INTERMEDIATE PROCESSING STAGES IN THE PRODUCTION OF CERTAIN MERCHANDISE EXPORT ITEMS.
IN COMPILING THE ABOVE STATISTICS, THE TOTAL VALUE OF SUCH AN ITEM HAS HOWEVER BEEN WHOLLY RELATED TO THE INDUSTRY IN WHICH THE ITEM IS FINALLY PRODUCED.
/DOMESTIC EXPORT .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
DOMESTIC EXPORT STATISTICS OE A PARTICULAR INDUSTRY PRODUCED ABOVE MAY INCLUDE PRODUCTS WHICH ARE PRODUCED AS SECONDARY PRODUCTS BY ESTABLISHMENTS BELONGING TO OTHER INDUSTRIES.
FURTHER DETAILS OF MERCHANDISE DOMESTIC EXPORT STATISTICS CLASSIFIED BY INDUSTRIAL ORIGIN MAY BE FOUND IN THE ATTACHED TABLE WHICH IS OBTAINABLE FROM THE INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH SECTION OF THE CENSUS AND STATISTICS DEPARTMENT (TEL. NO. 839 3223).
A TABLE SHOWING MORE DETAILED BREAKDOWNS OF SIMILAR STATISTICS FOR MAJOR MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES IS ALSO INCLUDED IN THE REPORT ’’HONG KONG EXTERNAL TRADE, JUNE 1993”.
/Domestic exports .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
- 8
Domestic exports of manufactured goods classified by industrial origin for the second quarter of 1993
(Value in HKS’OOO)
Industrial origin of the commodities exported Merchandise domestic exports
1993 2nd qtr. 1992 2nd qtr. Value change % change
Food 499,047 637,263 -138,216 -21.7
Beverages 122,278 137,806 -15,528 -11.3
Tobacco manufactures 671,596 836,459 -164,863 -19.7
Textiles (including knitting) 11,237,446 12,664,500 -1,427,054 -11.3
Wearing apparel, except footwear 9,182,631 9,566,683 -384,051 -4.0
Leather and leather products, except footwear and wearing apparel 411,546 434,081 -22,535 -5.2
Footwear, except rubber, plastic and wooden footwear 55,659 83,151 -27,492 -33.1
Wood and cork products, furniture and fixtures 109,297 117,687 -8,390 -7.1
Paper and paper products, printing and publishing 1,923,170 1,929,192 -6,022 -0.3
Chemicals and chemical products 1,775,478 1,791,466 -15,988 -0.9
Products of petroleum and coal 3,107 4,516 -1,409 -31.2
Rubber products 26,115 32,780 -6,665 -20.3
Plastic products 1,444,483 1,757,367 -312,884 -17.8
Non-metallic mineral products, except products of petroleum and coal 129,312 133,587 -4,275 -3.2
Basic metals and fabricated metal products 2,275,203 2,443,206 -168,003 -6.9
Machinery, equipment, apparatus, parts and components 7,559,985 6,701,261 +858,724 + 12.8
Consumer electrical and electronic products 8,658,791 9,772,839 -1,114,048 -11.4
Transport equipment 25,844 44,811 -18,967 -42.3
Professional and optical equipment 3,922,365 4,668,857 -746,492 -16.0
Other manufacturing industries 3,549,705 3,783,123 -233,418 -6.2
Total 53,583,057 57,540,634 -3,957,577 -6.9
Notes: 1. Individual entries of a column may not add up exactly to the corresponding total due to rounding. All percentage changes are calculated from unrounded figures.
2. The above statistics are derived by re-grouping the merchandise export items under the external trade classification system according to the industries in which these items are normally produced. As from 1992, the Third Revision of the Standard International Trade Classification (SITC R3) has been adopted in place of the Second Revision (SITC R2) for the classification of trade statistics. The above statistics may not be strictly comparable with those published for earlier years due to the change in trade classification.
Industrial Research Section, Census & Statistics Department, Hong Kong.
Tel. : 839 3223
August 1993
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
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PRE-WAR BUILDING DECLARED DANGEROUS *****
THE BUILDING AUTHORITY TODAY (TUESDAY) DECLARED A TWO-STOREY PRE-WAR BUILDING AT 6 SHAU KEI WAN MAIN STREET EAST LIABLE TO BECOME DANGEROUS.
THE BUILDING, CONSTRUCTED OF TIMBER FLOOR AND ROOF ON LOADBEARING BRICK AND MASONRY WALLS, IS IN A DILAPIDATED CONDITION.
THERE ARE SERIOUS WATER SEEPAGE THROUGH THE ROOF. MANY OF THE ROOF BATTENS ARE DECAYED AND DEFECTIVE, GIVING RISE TO CONCERN OVER THE SAFETY OF THE OCCUPANTS.
MANY OF THE MORTAR JOINTS IN THE LOADBEARING WALLS ARE ALSO SUFFERING FROM DISINTEGRATION.
IN VIEW OF THE AGE, CONSTRUCTION AND GENERAL CONDITION OF THE BUILDING AS WELL AS THE NATURE AND EXTENT OF THE WORKS REQUIRED TO MAKE IT SAFE, IT IS CONSIDERED UNECONOMICAL TO CARRY OUT REPAIR. HENCE THE BUILDING SHOULD BE CLOSED AND DEMOLISHED.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A CLOSURE ORDER AT THE HONG KONG DISTRICT COURT ON NOVEMBER 30 IN RESPECT OF THE BUILDING WAS POSTED ON THE PREMISES TODAY.
ORDERS REQUIRING DEMOLITION OF THE BUILDING WILL BE SERVED ON THE OWNERS SHORTLY.
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CAR NARKS UP FOR AUCTION *****
ANOTHER 50 LUCKY VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARKS WILL BE PUT UP FOR AUCTION BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ON SATURDAY (SEPTEMBER 4).
THEY ARE:
FH3889 FH366 FH783 FBI 93 FH3213
FH1138 BC288 FF8838 FH21 3 BM3972
♦FR100 *FC20 *FP2 ♦ FN1 ♦FP1991
AA3303 FJ223 A LG 3 3 AZ1682 FH2940
FH8283 ED280 FH8868 FH802 CF547
FJ325 FH2328 FG8978 CD2389 FH2330
FH886 FH1 1 9 FH6618 FH830 DR8669
*FM300 *FP9000 »AJ88 ♦FN4433 ♦CM1414
FH892 AF107 FH5551 FH6818 FH9700
FII6G28 FH822 FH108 FH2866 FH735
* SPECIAL VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK (NOT TRANSFERABLE)
/THE AUCTION .......
TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
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THE AUCTION WILL START AT 9.30 AM AT THE LECTURE HALL, SHEUNG WAN CIVIC CENTRE, FIFTH FLOOR, URBAN COUNCIL SHEUNG WAN COMPLEX AT 345 QUEEN'S ROAD CENTRAL, HONG KONG.
SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS MUST PAY BY CHEQUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BIDDING.
A SPOKESMAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT REMINDED BIDDERS THAT THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK WOULD BE ASSIGNED ONLY TO A VEHICLE REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THE AUCTION.
THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION MUST BE PRODUCED IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE AUCTION IF THE VEHICLE REGISTRATION MARK IS TO BE REGISTERED UNDER THE NAME OF BODY CORPORATE.
PROCEEDS OF THE AUCTION, AFTER DEDUCTION OF EXPENSES, WILL GO TO THE GOVERNMENT LOTTERIES FUND.
THE COMING AUCTION WILL BE THE 201ST ORGANISED BY THE TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT SINCE MAY 1973.
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WATER STORAGE FIGURE *****
STORAGE IN HONG KONG’S RESERVOIRS AT 9 AM TODAY (TUESDAY) STOOD AT 79.2 PER CENT OF CAPACITY OR 464.144 MILLION CUBIC METRES.
THIS TIME LAST YEAR THE RESERVOIRS CONTAINED 501.049 MILLION CUBIC METRES OF WATER, REPRESENTING 85.5 PER (ENT OF CAPACITY.
/Il .......
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND TENDER RESULTS * * * * *
TENDER DATE 31 AUG 93 31 AUG 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q33 5 H372
AMOUNT APPLIED HK$2,650 MN HK$1,700 MN
AMOUNT ALLOTTED HK$1,000 MN HK$400 MN
AVERAGE YIELD ACCEPTED 2.87 PCT 3.06 PCT
HIGHEST YIELD ACCEPTED 2.89 PCT 3.07 PCT
PRO RATA RATIO ABOUT 83 PCT ABOUT 40 PCT
AVERAGE TENDER YIELD 2.90 PCT 3.09 PCT
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
TENDERS TO BE HELD IN THE WEEK BEGINNING 6 SEPT 1993 -
TENDER DATE 7 SEPT 93 7 SEPT 93
PAPER ON OFFER EF BILLS EF BILLS
ISSUE NUMBER Q336 Y393
ISSUE DATE 8 SEPT 93 8 SEPT 93
MATURITY DATE 8 DEC 93 7 SEPT 94
TENOR 91 DAYS 364 DAYS
AMOUNT ON OFFER HK$1,000 + 200 MN HKS300 + 90 1
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j;.‘ TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 1993
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HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND MONEY MARKET OPERATIONS *****
$ MILLION
OPENING BALANCE IN THE ACCOUNT 1,820
REVERSAL OF LAF + 18°
BALANCE AFTER REVERSAL OF LAF 2,000
NET INJECTION/WITHDRAWAL TODAY NIL
EFFECT OF LAF TODAY +200
CLOSING BALANCE TN THE ACCOUNT 2,200
LAF RATE 2.00 BID/4.00 OFFER TWI 112.3 *+0.1* 31.8.93
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT EXCHANGE FUND
EF BILLS EF NOTES/HONG KONG GOVERNMENT BONDS
TERMS YIELD TERM ISSUE COUPON PRICE YIELD
1 WEEK 2.85 PCT 15 MONTHS 2411 4.625 101.48 3.39
1 MONTH 2.83 PCT 18 MONTHS 2502 4.75 101.70 3.57
3 MONTHS 2.83 PCT 21 MONTHS 2505 4.75 99.88 3.86
6 MONTHS 3.03 PCT 24 MONTHS 2508 4.625 101.15 4.05
12 MONTHS 3.26 PCT
TOTAL TURNOVER OF BILLS AND BONDS - 10,676 MN
CLOSED 31 AUGUST 1993
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