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The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, met with two groups of Legislative Councillors today (Tuesday) and exchanged views with them on a number of issues of public concern, including economic development, tourism, protection of intellectual property and urban renewal.

On economic development, Mr Tung said that despite recent encouraging signs, our economy had yet to reach full recovery. During this adjustment period, we must continue to implement reforms, particularly in the financial and banking sectors, to lay a solid foundation for full economic recovery.

Turning to tourism, the Chief Executive said that tourism had always been one of our economic strongholds. Noting that our competitors in the region were upgrading their tourist facilities, Mr Tung said we must develop unique attractions and organise diverse cultural and sports activities to enhance our appeal as a tourist destination.

The Chief Executive also talked about measures to protect intellectual property.

"If we were to become an innovation and technology centre, in addition to investing in human capital, we must respect intellectual property," he said. He reiterated that the Government would devote more resources to tackle copyright piracy and to enhance civic education.

Mr Tung also talked about the problem of ageing buildings. He pointed out that some old buildings were posing dangers to their residents for lack of repair.

"We must not allow this situation to continue and must formulate a comprehensive programme to encourage property owners to work together to resolve the problem," he said.

Photo: The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, met several independent Legislative Councillors at the Chief Executive's Office.

End/Tuesday, August 31, 1999

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