******************************************
Following is the transcript of remarks made by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, to the media on the proposed establishment of a shopping mall near the boundary after attending the press conference on the International IT Fest 2015 today (March 24):
Reporter: Mr So, do you mind sharing some light on opening some more purchase spots for tourists in Hong Kong, maybe around the border?
Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development: A few weeks ago, I met with the proponents of a new shopping mall near the boundary and this topic has been discussed in the public arena for quite some time. The Government is in support of the establishment of more capacity to receive tourists. But as you have noted (some) LegCo members' views, this kind of shopping mall is not confined to tourists only. Locals are also welcome to enjoy shopping in this mall. A few weeks ago, I, together with other bureau representatives, met with the proponents of this project to give them the information that is required for them to take this project forward. Our view is that if it could be expedited in terms of their planning and filing the application, we will be more than happy to provide them with the relevant information. I believe that enhancing our capability to receive tourists is a good idea and so we will try to facilitate that development.
Reporter: Some worry that ... would only be aggravated by such a shopping mall. Do you share the same concern?
Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development: I will look at it from a positive point of view. Any measure to enhance our capacity (to receive tourists) is a good idea and so the Government will try to facilitate.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Issued at HKT 19:03
NNNN
