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Following is the transcript of remarks (English portion) by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at a media session after attending a beat drugs workshop for parents at Kowloon Tong Education Services Centre this afternoon (August 8):
Reporter: What is your reaction to those opposing the school drug testing scheme?
Chief Executive: I'm sure people are concerned. This is quite natural. What is important is to understand what we are trying to do in this pilot scheme in Tai Po, involving a total of only 23 schools. I hope all 23 will participate in the scheme. The important thing is not to punish anybody but to help those who are in trouble, particularly to create a new atmosphere, a new standard in our schools that we will give zero tolerance to drug abuse. That is more important. To protect those who are not in drug abuse, to make sure they are able to equip themselves to deal with the problem when the problem comes.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Saturday, August 8, 2009
Issued at HKT 17:47
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