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Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Food and Health, Dr Ko Wing-man, after attending a public function this afternoon (August 29):
Reporter: (On whether there is any change in policy concerning Mainland women giving birth in Hong Kong after the relaxation of visa applications from non-permanent residents in six Mainland cities to visit Hong Kong under the Individual Visit Scheme)
Secretary for Food and Health: I do not think there is any direct relation between the two issues.
Reporter: (On the increasing number of tourists from the Mainland)
Secretary for Food and Health: Regarding the possibility of having more tourists from the Mainland, I have to say that the Government is very concerned about the issue and its implication to Hong Kong in different aspects. We are keeping track of this particular issue and seeking to understand more from the Mainland regarding the implications and operations of this tourism initiative to Hong Kong. If there is any other implication that will affect various aspects of Hong Kong, the Administration will take appropriate actions.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:58
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