*************************************************

The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, assured green groups today (Tuesday) that the Government would give priority to environmental improvement, which was an essential part of the programme to prepare Hong Kong for the new millennium.

Mr Tung met representatives from Greenpeace, Green Power and Friends of the Earth at his office to exchange views with them on environmental protection efforts in Hong Kong.

"It is very important for us to move ahead with environmental improvements. We need to focus our efforts on rectifying pollution problems and planning sustainable developments for our city," he said.

The Chief Executive stressed that the Government was determined to put in place sound policies and an effective organisation staffed by competent personnel, and to work with the green groups as partners to bring about improvements in environmental quality.

He expressed his appreciation for the hard work that the green groups had done through the years.

"Nevertheless, much remains to be done and the Government needs the support not just from the green groups but also from the whole community.

"To enhance community awareness, it is necessary for us to step up efforts in environmental education," Mr Tung added.

Photo:The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, meets representatives of Greenpeace, Green Power and Friends of the Earth and exchanges views with them on environmental issues.

End/Tuesday, September 28, 1999

NNNN