Issued by Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government Information Services
Garden Road, 5th-8th Floors, Murray Building, Hong Kong. Tel: 2842 8777
Tuesday, December 30, 1997 CONTENTS ======== 1. Chicken slaughter exercise go off in full swing 2. Update on avian flu 3. Appointment of the new EC and UGC Chairmen 4. Opening of Government House 5. Special clinic service on New Year holiday 6. Revised cross-harbour taxi surcharge 7. External trade figures for November 1997 8. HK student wins gold medal in international computer contest 9. Customs officers commended for outstanding performance 10. All government departments and bureaux on Internet 11. Labour Department to launch Chinese Homepage tomorrow 12. Social Workers Registration Board election 13. Monetary Statistics for November 1997 14. Public reminded to plan cross-boundary journeys earlier 15. Tunnels to remain fully open on New Year's Day 16. Provisional statistics of restaurant receipts & purchases 17. Six groups to raise funds next month 18. Population and household statistics by district published 19. 'Demographic Trends in Hong Kong 1981-1996' published 20. Quarterly report on General Household Survey published 21. Hong Kong Monetary Authority tender results 1. Chicken slaughter exercise go off in full swing *********************************************** The chicken slaughter exercise launched yesterday (Monday) to tackle the problem of avian flu went off in full swing with the co-operation of chicken farmers and poultry stall operators. The operation, involving staff from Urban Services Department, Regional Services Department and Agriculture and Fisheries Department (AFD), covered all retail outlets, wholesale markets and farms in the vicinity of the infected places for animals and birds in Yuen Long yesterday. Some slight difficulties were encountered in dealing with chicken farms due to the remoteness of these places and logistic problems in arranging sufficient carbon dioxide cylinders to these farms. The exercise continued today (Tuesday) with a total of 1,200 staff and 60 workers in the industry taking part in this operation. The whole slaughter exercise covering chickens at all chicken farms and poultry at all wholesale and retail outlets should be substantially completed by midnight today. The total number of poultry to be slaughtered would be around 1.3 million. Thorough cleansing and disinfection work would follow after the slaughter exercise to ensure the hygiene status of these places. The Secretary for Economic Services, Mr Stephen Ip, said that at the request of the HKSAR Government, the Mainland authorities had agreed not to resume export of chickens to Hong Kong until the cleansing of all farms, wholesale markets and retail market stalls has been completed and that a good system is in place to ensure chicken entering Hong Kong in future are free from virus. The control system that has been agreed with the Mainland authorities will include the following: - Checking and certification system by the Mainland authorities that the poultry are from farms licensed by them for export. The health status of these farms is monitored by authorised vets. - AFD participates in Mainland authorities' inspection of poultry farms supplying Hong Kong. AFD also works with them to standardise testing methods. - Checking of certificates by AFD at the border and sample test of every consignment passing through Man Kam To or Western Wholesale Market if by sea. - All birds intended for export to Hong Kong must be segregated for five days and must pass the diagnostic test for H5 avian influenza prior to export to Hong Kong. - Chicken samples will be taken from each consignment at border check points and the wholesale markets and tested for H5 virus. All chickens released for sale must pass the test. - All cages will be labelled to facilitate the recall of birds for destruction in case of positive results. For locally bred poultry, the health status of the flocks would be closely monitored through blood testing to ensure that they were free from H5 infection. New requirements including more stringent sanitary conditions would be incorporated into the conditions of licensing of poultry farms. A cage labelling system had been put in place for local chickens to allow AFD staff to track the movements of the bird. Meanwhile, the health status of other poultry would also be closely checked and monitored. Mr Ip said that the question of compensation was being actively considered within Government. The Administration would be seeking funds from the Finance Committee on January 9, 1998. Acting Secretary for Health and Welfare, Mr Gregory Leung, said the slaughter exercise was a reasonable precautionary measure to minimise the risk of avian flu to HK people. The Department of Health (DH) would continue to monitor the situation closely. As at today, there was a total of 13 confirmed and six suspected cases of avian flu. No new cases have been notified for the last three consecutive days. Patients of six confirmed cases had recovered and been discharged. The main mode of transmission of avian flu is bird- to-man. Man-to-man transmission, if occuring, is inefficient at this stage. The issue of vaccine development is also being actively pursued. A high level of surveillance will be maintained to detect changes in the avian flu virus that may increase the efficiency of transmission. A total of 314 people attended DH's 14 special surveillance centres for poultry farmers, retailers and workers yesterday. All of them underwent health checks and were found to be free from influenza symptoms. He called upon this group of people to come forward for health checks and surveillance at the special centres to protect their health and to provide important information to the surveillance system. General Out-patient clinics under the Department of Health would provide extended service into afternoon sessions during the New Year holiday (January 1) as well as the second and third days of the Chinese New Year (January 29 and 30). Mr Leung stressed that according to WHO the cluster of cases of human influenza A H5N1 seen in Hong Kong does not indicate an epidemic. There is no need for travel restrictions in Hong Kong or elsewhere in the world. The public are advised that the best protection against avian flu is good personal hygiene and body immunity. Strict handwashing after handling poultry is most important. Frozen poultry pose no health hazard if they are well cooked. End 2. Update on avian flu ******************* The Department of Health (DH) announced today (Tuesday) that no new confirmed or suspected cases were reported today. Moreover, Case No. 6 in yesterday's suspected case list, involving a one-year-old boy, has been removed from the list. This brings down the total number of cases to 13 confirmed cases and six suspected cases. Following is a list of the cases and their latest conditions: Confirmed cases *************** Case 1 Sex / Age: Male / 3 yr Condition: Died Case 2 Sex / Age: Male / 2 yr Condition: Recovered and discharged Case 3 Sex / Age: Female / 13 yr Condition: Died Case 4 Sex / Age: Male / 54 yr Condition: Died Case 5 Sex / Age: Female / 5 yr Condition: Recovered and discharged Case 6 Sex / Age: Male / 37 yr Condition: Recovered and discharged Case 7 Sex / Age: Female / 24 yr Condition: Under treatment, condition critical Case 8 Sex / Age: Male / 2 yr Condition: Recovered and discharged Case 9 Sex / Age: Male / 4 yr Condition: Under treatment, condition satisfactory Case 10 Sex / Age: Male / 1 yr Condition: Recovered and discharged Case 11 Sex / Age: Female / 3 yr Condition: Recovered and discharged Case 12 Sex / Age: Female / 60 yr Condition: Died Case 13 Sex / Age: Female / 25 yr Condition: Under treatment, condition critical Suspected cases *************** Case 1 Sex / Age: Female / 3 yr Condition: Recovered and discharged Case 2 Sex / Age: Male / 6 yr Condition: Recovered and discharged Case 3 Sex / Age: Female / 19 yr Condition: Under treatment, condition critical Case 4 Sex / Age: Male / 3 yr Condition: Under treatment, condition satisfactory Case 5 Sex / Age: Male / 7 yr Condition: Under treatment, condition satisfactory Case 6 Sex / Age: Male / 72 yr Condition: Under treatment, condition stable End 3. Appointment of the new EC and UGC Chairmen ****************************************** The Government today (Tuesday) announced the appointment of the new Chairmen of the Education Commission (EC) and the University Grants Committee (UGC) with effect from April 1, 1998. The Hon Antony Leung Kam-chung, whose term of office as Chairman of the University Grants Committee (UGC) will expire on March 31, 1998, will succeed Professor Rosie Young as the next EC Chairman starting from April 1, 1998. The normal term of appointment to EC is two years. Dr Edgar Cheng Wai-kin will succeed the Hon Antony Leung as the next UGC Chairman with effect from April 1, 1998. The normal term of appointment to UGC is three years. The Government also announced that all serving non- official members of EC will have their present terms extended until June 30, 1998. These include: Professor Cheng Kai-ming, JP Mr Cheung Man-kwong Ms Ching Teh-chi, Sansan Mrs Chua Tiong Hong-sieng, Judy, JP Mr Koo Yee-yin, Irving, JP Mr Lee Ting-chang, Peter, JP Mr Leung Kwan-yuen, Andrew, JP Mr Mak Kwai-po Mr Tai Hay-lap, JP Mr Tien Puk-sun, Michael, JP Sister Wong Kam-lin, Annie Margaret Mr Wong Pui-tong, Benjamin, JP The Hon Yeung Yiu-chung Professor Kenneth Young The Secretary for Education and Manpower, Mr Joseph W P Wong, said: "We are grateful for Professor Rosie Young's able leadership and valuable contribution to the work of EC since 1993, and her agreement to continue to serve as the EC Chairman for the coming three months, until March 31, 1998. "We are also pleased to welcome the Hon Antony Leung as the next Chairman of EC. "As the Chairman of UGC, Mr Leung has been an ex- officio member of EC since 1993. He has a good knowledge of the tertiary sector and has developed contacts with various education bodies over the years. Mr Leung's enthusiasm in education, and his experience in the public and business sectors are valuable assets which will be put to full use in the future work of EC. "The membership of EC after June 30, 1998 will be further considered in the light of the review of the education-related executive and advisory structure, which will cover, inter alia, the role of EC and its relationship with other advisory bodies," Mr Wong said. Ex-officio members of EC include: Chairmen of the Advisory Committee on Teacher Education and Qualifications, the Board of Education, UGC and the Vocational Training Council; and the Director of Education. The Secretary for Education and Manpower is the Vice-Chairman of EC. "We are also pleased to welcome Dr Edgar Cheng as the next Chairman of UGC. "Dr Cheng's strong business background, exemplary leadership and extensive public service record will be valuable assets to UGC, particularly in fostering the links between the business and tertiary sectors. Dr Cheng has maintained close ties with the tertiary sector as a member of the Court of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and a former member of the Research Grants Council," Mr Wong added. End 4. Opening of Government House *************************** "The Government House Ballroom will be open for application by charitable, non-profit making, and public organisations for holding community events under formalised procedures with effect from January 1, 1998," a government spokesman said today (Tuesday). "The Ballroom will be reserved on the first three Fridays of each month for such purpose," he said, noting that the Ballroom, measuring 300 square metres, can accommodate about 180 guests for sit-down dinners, 300 guests for cultural performances, and 400 for cocktail receptions. The spokesman said that the Chief Executive's Office will vet the applications through a vetting committee comprising representatives of government bureaux and departments concerned. "Only events which serve to promote the public interest and are compatible with the identity of the Government House as an important historical monument of Hong Kong and a dignified venue for holding meaningful functions will be considered," the spokesman said. As regards the application criteria, the spokesman said that the applying organisation should be: (i) a non-profit making and/or charitable organisation registered in Hong Kong, or a public organisation established under its own Ordinance; (ii) its principal activities involve the provision of community service, for example, welfare, education, charity, cultural, recreational or medical work; (iii) of good reputation; (iv) have good track record in organising events/projects; and (v) engaged in activities which are of benefit to the community. The event to be organised should be:- (i) important either in Hong Kong or internationally; (ii) run on a non-profit-making or charitable basis; and (iii) apolitical in nature. Application forms are available from the public enquiry service centres of all district offices starting from January 1998. In view of the processing time required, applications should reach the Chief Executive's Office four to six months before the date of the event. Meanwhile, flexibility will be applied in processing applications for functions to be held between January to April 1998. In addition to opening the Ballroom three times a month for use by charitable, non-profit making and public organisations, the Government House will be open to the public four times a year starting from 1998. The first open day will be held in spring for the public to appreciate azaleas. The dates of the remaining three open days will be announced later. The spokesman said that despite the above opening measures, the Government House is still being used on a frequent basis by the Chief Executive and Mrs Tung for official functions. Any plans to let the public have further access to the Government House must be subject to the above use, as well as security, maintenance and manpower implications. End 5. Special clinic service on New Year holiday ****************************************** The Department of Health today (Tuesday) announced special clinic services for the public holiday on New Year's Day (Thursday) in anticipation of increased public demand for general out-patient service. "In addition to the normal holiday clinic session from 9 am to 1 pm, the opening hours of the ten designated general out-patient clinics would be extended to cover an afternoon session from 2 pm to 5 pm," a department spokesman said. The 10 designated clinics are Violet Peel Health Centre and Shau Kei Wan Jockey Club Clinic on Hong Kong Island; Kwun Tong Jockey Club Health Centre, Robert Black Health Centre, and Yau Ma Tei Jockey Club Clinic in Kowloon; and Lady Trench Polyclinic, Shek Wu Hui Jockey Club Clinic, Yuen Long Jockey Club Health Centre, Lek Yuen Health Centre, and Tuen Mun Clinic in the New Territories. Further details on the opening of these clinics are available by calling the Department of Health's Central Health Education Unit hotline 2833 0111. In the meantime, the spokesman also reminded that 14 special centres had been set up in designated General Out- patient Clinics (GOPCs) to provide health checks, laboratory tests and drug treatment for chicken farmers, retailers and poultry workers. Members of this group are invited to call at any of these special centres for health checks and medical services between 6 pm and 10 pm daily until Saturday (January 3) on a voluntary basis. The 14 special centres are located at the following designated GOPCs: New Territories West -------------------- Madam Yung Fung Shee Health Centre South Kwai Chung Polyclinic Tin Shui Wai Health Centre Yan Oi Polyclinic New Territories East -------------------- Yuen Chau Kok Clinic Wong Siu ching Clinic Tseung Kwan O Jockey Club Clinic Kowloon ------- Lam Tin Polyclinic Shek Kip Mei Health Centre Wang Tau Hom Jockey Club Clinic East Kowloon Polyclinic Hong Kong Island ---------------- Kennedy Town Jockey Club Clinic Chai Wan Health Centre Anne Black Health Centre End 6. Revised cross-harbour taxi surcharge ************************************ The Transport Department today (Tuesday) reminds passengers that additional taxi fares for using Eastern Harbour Tunnel (EHT) and Western Harbour Tunnel (WHT) will be revised beginning January 1, 1998. The taxi surcharge for EHT and WHT will be increased from $20 and $40 to $30 and $45 respectively. However, taxi surcharge for using Cross Harbour Tunnel (CHT) will remain at $20. Speaking on the fare revision, a spokesman for the department said: "The adjustment is necessary as one-way toll charges for private cars and taxis using EHT will be increased from $10 to $15 on January 1, 1998." At present, taxi passengers taking cross-harbour journeys are required to pay an additional fare besides the normal taxi fare. It comprises the tunnel toll paid by taxi drivers and a return toll. "The return toll is to ensure that taxi drivers need not pay out of their pockets even if they cannot obtain a hire on their return journeys," the spokesman added. The revised additional fares for taxi passengers using the three harbour crossings will be as follows: Existing Revised (from Jan 1, 1998) -------- -------------------------- (a) EHT $20 $30 (b) WHT $40 $45 (c) CHT $20 $20 The spokesman reminded passengers that those who hire a taxi at a cross-harbour taxi stand are only required to pay a single tunnel toll. Return toll will not be necessary. End 7. External trade figures for November 1997 **************************************** In November 1997, the value of both Hong Kong's re- exports and imports registered year-on-year increases, while that of domestic exports showed little change. These are shown in the external trade figures for November 1997 released today (Tuesday) by the Census and Statistics Department. The value of total exports (comprising re-exports and domestic exports) in November 1997 increased by 5.3% over a year earlier to $124.7 billion. Within this total, the value of re-exports rose by 6.3% to $106.7 billion, while the value of domestic exports stayed at $18 billion, little change from a year earlier. The value of imports increased by 1.5% over a year earlier to $133 billion in November 1997. A visible trade deficit of $8.3 billion, equivalent to 6.3% of the value of imports, was recorded in November 1997. This was smaller than the corresponding deficit of $12.6 billion, equivalent to 9.6% of the value of imports, in November 1996. For the first 11 months of 1997 as a whole, the value of total exports increased by 3.9% over the same period last year. Within this total, the value of re-exports rose by 4.7%, while the value of domestic exports decreased by 0.6%. The value of imports registered an increase of 5.2%. Over the same period, a visible trade deficit of $145.8 billion, equivalent to 9.9% of the value of imports, was recorded. This was larger than the deficit of $123 billion, equivalent to 8.8% of the value of imports, recorded over the same period in 1996. Commenting on the latest trade statistics, a Government Secretariat spokesman noted that the value of re-exports grew further, by 6.3% in November 1997 over a year earlier, faster than the average increase of 4.6% in the first 10 months of the year. The value of domestic exports in November was little changed from a year earlier, compared with the average decline of 0.7% in the first 10 months of the year. Meanwhile, the value of imports decelerated to a 1.5% growth in November over a year earlier, from an average increase of 5.6% in the first ten months of 1997. The spokesman also pointed out that the visible trade deficit had been on a narrowing trend in the more recent months. The ratio of the deficit to the total value of imports came down substantially from the peak of 17.6% in March to 6.3% in November. Taking July-November together, the corresponding ratio was 6.9%, significantly below that of 12.6% in the first half of the year. A more detailed analysis of Hong Kong's external trade for November 1997, by commodity and country, will be released in mid-January 1998. End 8. HK student wins gold medal in international computer contest ************************************************************ A secondary student has won the first gold medal for Hong Kong in the ninth International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI'97) in Cape Town this month (December). A celebration party was held today (Tuesday) at Education Department Headquarters to congratulate the Hong Kong team on their achievements. Students representing Hong Kong in the IOI'97 were Poon Wing-chi from La Salle College, now studying at the Hong Kong University; Lau Tsz-kit from La Salle College; Chung Wing-on from TWGHs Wong Fut Nam College; and Leung Chun-ho from Sing Yin Secondary School. Gratitude was also expressed for the efforts of the experienced computer teachers who volunteered to be trainers. The Deputy Director of Education, Mr Kwan Ting-fai, presented souvenirs to them at the party. They were Mr Yui Choi-king from TWGHs Wong Fut Nam College, Mr Cheung Chung-kin from LST Ku Chiu Man School, and a former IOI Hong Kong team member, Mr Wan Yun-chun. Being experienced teachers, the trainers had a thorough understanding of the contest and the weaknesses of the students. The standard of the Hong Kong team was raised significantly within a short period. Initiated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, the IOI is an international competition on programming skills to arouse the interest of young people in computers. Participants have to solve a set of algorithmic programming problems within a given time limit. They are required to be familiar with techniques of file handling, string and numeric manipulation, arrays and text graphics. The first IOI was held in Bulgaria in 1989. Since then, it was held annually in different countries. Hong Kong took part in the fourth IOI in 1992 for the first time. The Olympiad has then become a regular activity for local students. Hong Kong's performances in the past events were encouraging. Each year, they brought home at least one medal. The performances of Hong Kong students were even better in the IOI'97, which was held in Cape Town, South Africa, from November 30 to December 7. One of the team members, Poon Wing-chi, won the first gold medal for Hong Kong. To select students to represent Hong Kong, the Education Department, the Hong Kong Association for Computer Education and the Hong Kong Computer Society organised a Hong Kong Olympiad in Informatics in March this year. Some 190 secondary students participated in the local event. After a series of training programmes, four students were selected to represent Hong Kong in the IOI'97. End 9. Customs officers commended for outstanding performance ****************************************************** Five Customs officers were today (Tuesday) commended by the Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Mr Lawrence Li Shu-fai; for their outstanding services at a commendation certificates presentation ceremony held at the department's Senior Officers' Mess. Acting Assistant Superintendent Cheng Sik-chau, Senior Inspector Tang Yi-hoi, and Chief Customs Officer Ngan Yim-yuen had displayed their leadership, ability and devotion to duty of an exceptionally high order in an investigation which led to the seizure of 300 kilograms of herbal cannabis in San Po Kong, the arrest of two persons, and the neutralization of a drug trafficking syndicate 10 days ago (December 20). The other two officers, Assistant Superintendent Chan Shiu-keung and Senior Inspector Chan Jan-cheong, were commended for their professionalism displayed in the selection of cargo for examination at Kwai Chung Container Terminals which led to the seizure of 7,142 kilograms of herbal cannabis in a 20-foot container from Cambodia via Singapore, the arrest of one person, and the neutralisation of an international drug trafficking syndicate in September last year. Other recipients, including two assistant superintendents, three senior inspectors, three inspectors, four chief customs officers, 11 senior customs officers and 17 customs officers, received the certificates from the Deputy Commissioner, Mr Raymond Li Wai-man; and the three assistant commissioners. End 10. All government departments and bureaux on Internet ************************************************** Members of the public now have a comprehensive range of government information at their fingertips as all bureaux and departments, under the Code of Access to Information, have set up home pages on the Internet. Government agencies' home pages are grouped under the government web site the Government Information Centre, at http://www.info.gov.hk. "We said in our latest policy programme that all bureaux and departments should upload home pages by the end of 1997, as part of an open, transparent and accountable administration. We have now fully met this policy commitment," a spokesman for the Home Affairs Bureau said today (Tuesday). "Though varying in design and presentation style, the home pages all display before the public the services, work and organisation of the individual bureau or department concerned." Information available ranges from policy documents and consultation papers to current weather and daily cause lists at local courts. The spokesman said the Government was fully aware of the Internet's potential in disseminating information, and offering an effective additional medium for communicating with the public via electronic mail. The hit rate to all pages of GIC has increased from 65,000 at its launch in December 1995 to 1,704,500 last month. Visitor traffic to particular departmental pages has surged in response to events like the policy speech and the Budget. Under the Code of Access to Information, government agencies are required to make available to the public a variety of information including details of their organisation, services, performance pledges, records kept and procedures for gaining access to them. The Code has been extended to 91 bureaux, departments and agencies. The Internet is regarded as a cost- effective way for government agencies to comply with some of the Code's provisions. End 11. Labour Department to launch Chinese Homepage tomorrow ***************************************************** The Chinese Homepage of the Labour Department will be launched tomorrow (Wednesday) to facilitate access by members of the public to the latest news on labour legislation and the major upcoming events of the department. The information contained in the Home Page includes the organisation, vision and mission and performance pledge of the department; services offered in the programme areas of employment services, occupational safety and health, labour relations and employee rights and benefits; and publications issued by the department. The Homepage is accessible through the Government Information Centre on the Internet or at the web site address: http://www.info.gov.hk/labour. The e-mail address is: laboureq@labour.gcn.gov.hk. The English version of the Homepage was launched on September 30 this year. End 12. Social Workers Registration Board election ****************************************** Registered social workers are urged to cast their votes in the Social Workers Registration Board election without delay as the voting period is coming to a close. A spokesman for the Social Welfare Department said today (Tuesday) that as counting of votes would be conducted on Saturday (January 3), the postal cut-off date for votes to be returned to the Board by mail was December 31 (tomorrow). "In case that eligible voters have difficulties in meeting the deadline for postal ballot, they may also return their votes to the Board in person by noon on Saturday (January 3)," he added. Votes to be sent in person should be produced to the Board at Room 928, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai in the specified period. The spokesman said that the results of the election would be released after the counting of votes, which would be witnessed by members of the Initial Social Workers Registration Board. The Board comprises of the chairperson Mrs Patricia Chu, the deputy chairperson Mr Hui Yin-fat, and members Professor Grace Tang, Mr Ng Shui-lai, Dr Law Chi-kwong and Ms Ophelia Chan. End 13. Monetary Statistics for November 1997 ************************************* According to statistics published today (Tuesday) by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, total deposits as well as loans and advances fell during November 1997. Deposits -------- Total deposits declined by 1.3% in November, having decreased by 0.7% in the previous month. HK$ deposits fell by 1.1% while foreign currency deposits were down by 1.6%. During the month, HK$ demand deposits dropped sharply, by 12%, after a decline of 1.9% in October, while time deposits fell by a modest 0.9%. On the other hand, savings deposits rebounded by 2.5%, having decreased continuously from July to October. The significant reduction in demand deposits was partly attributable to the weak asset markets amid the turbulence in Asian financial markets, as the transactions demand for money fell. The fall in foreign currency deposits was attributable primarily to a decline of 7.2% in non-US$ foreign currency deposits, which more than offset a rise of 4.1% in US$ deposits. The former could be partly a result of the valuation effect of exchange rate changes, as the US dollar, to which the Hong Kong dollar is linked, appreciated against most other major currencies during the month. Loans and advances ------------------ Total loans and advances dropped by 2% in November, after decreasing by 0.2% in October. The fall was across- the-board, with offshore loans declining by 3.9%, due partly to the valuation effect of a strong US dollar, while domestic credit contracted by a 0.3% along with the downturn of asset markets. Of the local loans, loans for trade financing fell for four months in a row, being down by 1.5% in November, while other loans dropped slightly by 0.1%, having decreased by 0.9% in the previous month. During November, HK$ loans registered a drop of 1.2%, having decreased by 2.3% in October, while foreign currency loans fell by 2.6%, after a rise of 1.4%. As HK$ deposits and loans contracted at about the same pace, the HK$ loan-to-deposit ratio was virtually unchanged at 113.9% at end-November. Money supply ------------ All monetary aggregates fell in November, with HK$M1 declining by 7.4%, HK$M2 by 0.6% and HK$M3 by 0.7%. In the twelve months to November, HK$M1 dropped by 1.2% while the growth of HK$M2 and HK$M3 decelerated to 7.9%, due partly to the high base of comparison in November 1996 when deposits and money supply were boosted by new share flotations. End 14. Public reminded to plan cross-boundary journeys earlier ******************************************************* The Transport Department today (Tuesday) advised passengers who intend to use the cross-boundary shuttle bus service between Lok Ma Chau and Huanggang during the New Year holiday should plan their journeys earlier to avoid last-minute rush. A spokesman for the department said: "While peak demand for the service is usually in the evening, it is envisaged that patronage will increase significantly during the New Year holiday. "Therefore, passengers are advised to make their journeys during the less busy hours in early daytime. "This will help avoid over-crowding at the terminus and facilitate regulation of the service to suit passenger demand." The frequency of the service will be enhanced in the morning and afternoon to cater for passenger demand when necessary. The spokesman added that the cross-boundary shuttle bus service, which operates between 7.30 am and 8.30 pm, would not be extended. "Past experience revealed that passengers who rush for the last few departures in late evening may not be able to board the shuttle buses. "Arrangements will be made to display notices and to make announcement at Sheung Shui and Yuen Long bus termini as well as Fanling and Sheung Shui KCR stations to advise passengers to make use of other cross-boundary transport services as appropriate," he added. End 15. Tunnels to remain fully open on New Year's Day ********************************************** The Transport Department announced today (Tuesday) that the five government tunnels will remain fully open on New Year's Day (Thursday). A spokesman for the department said no tunnel tubes would be closed for maintenance and radio broadcasts of safety messages would also be stepped up. These are additional control and safety measures on tunnel operations during holidays. The five government tunnels are Aberdeen Tunnel, Lion Rock Tunnel, Airport Tunnel, Shing Mun Tunnels and Tseung Kwan O Tunnel. The spokesman added that operators of the four private tunnels - Cross Harbour Tunnel, Western Harbour Tunnel, Tate's Cairn Tunnel, and Eastern Harbour Tunnel - would take the same measures as far as they could arrange. He said motorists also have a part to play in avoiding accidents inside tunnels by observing the following safety guidelines: * Do not follow too close to the vehicle in front; * Observe the speed limit; * Keep in lane; * Observe traffic ahead; * Use dipped headlights; * Avoid wearing earphones or using mobile telephones when driving; and * Do not drink any alcohol before and/or when driving. The spokesman urged motorists to drive with care and patience inside tunnels or on open roads. End 16. Provisional statistics of restaurant receipts & purchases ********************************************************* The value of total receipts for the restaurants sector in the third quarter of 1997, estimated at $14.9 billion, increased by 6% when compared with the same quarter in 1996. The value of total purchases of restaurants increased also by 6%, to $5.3 billion. These are the provisional figures on restaurant receipts and purchases released today (Tuesday) by the Census and Statistics Department. After discounting the effect of price changes over the period, total restaurant receipts increased moderately by 2% in volume. Compared with a year ago, the total receipts of miscellaneous eating and drinking places grew significantly, at 17% in value and 10% in volume. The total receipts of fast food shops and non-Chinese restaurants also went up, by 11% and 10% in value respectively. In volume terms, they increased by 6% and 5% respectively. Similarly, the total receipts of bars increased by 13% in value and 4% in volume. On the other hand, the total receipts of Chinese restaurants increased by 3% in value. This represented a slight decrease of 1% in volume. Compared with the preceding quarter, and bearing in mind that such comparison is affected by seasonal factors, total receipts for the restaurants sector in the third quarter of 1997 increased by 3% in value and 2% in volume. Comparing the first three quarters of 1997 with the same period of 1996, total restaurant receipts rose by 8% in value and 4% in volume. Restaurant receipts in volume terms are derived from receipts in value terms after adjusting for price changes. The relevant components of the Consumer Price Index are used for this deflating purpose. The Report on the Quarterly Survey of Restaurant Receipts and Purchases for the third quarter of 1997 is now on sale at $3 per copy at the Government Publications Centre, Ground Floor, Low Block, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway; and the Publications Unit of the Census and Statistics Department, 19th floor, Wanchai Tower, 12 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. Enquiries about the survey results may be directed to the Wholesale and Retail Trade Statistics Section of the Census and Statistics Department (Tel No: 2802 1258). End 17. Six groups to raise funds next month ************************************ Six organisations have been granted permission to raise funds for charitable purposes next month (January), a spokesman for the Social Welfare Department said today (Tuesday). They will either sell flags, tokens or similar items, or place donation boxes in designated public places. Members of the public can call the department's hotline 2343 2255 in case of doubt. Any organisation planning to hold activities involving collection of money or sale or exchange for donation of badges, tokens or similar articles in a public place for charitable purposes should apply for a public subscription permit from the Social Welfare Department. The spokesman appealed to organisers to take precautions against any possible fraud. "Sellers should display the permit or carry copies of the permit for inspection upon request if the fund raising is mobile," he said. The spokesman also advised them to prepare guidelines for sellers, setting out the places and the times for selling and the collection points for bags. "Organisers should inform the Police in case of loss of property, and seek their help when fraudulent acts, such as tampering of collection bags or making unauthorised selling, are found," he added. Permits are given to the following organisations for raising funds next month: Flag Day -------- Event Date Organisation ---------- ------------ January 3 Hope Worldwide Ltd January 10 Hong Chi Association January 17 Operation Dawn Ltd January 24 Hong Kong Playground Association Public Subscription ------------------- Event Day Organisation --------- ------------ January 1 - 8 Hong Kong Committee for UNICEF January 10 & 17 Land of Virtue Centre Ltd End 18. Population and household statistics by district published ********************************************************* A report entitled "Population and Household Statistics Analysed by District Board District" was published by the Census and Statistics Department today (Tuesday). The report contains statistics on a broad range of the demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the population in 1997 at the District Board district level. Population characteristics like age, sex and marital status, and household characteristics like household size, type and tenuon of accommodation are presented. The statistics in the report are mainly based on data collected in the General Household Survey in the second and the third quarters of 1997. The report, in bilingual form, is now on sale at $20 per copy. Purchases can be made at the Government Publications Centre, ground floor, Low Block, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway, Hong Kong. It is also available at the Publications Unit of the Census and Statistics Department, 19th floor, Wanchai Tower, 12 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong. End 19. 'Demographic Trends in Hong Kong 1981-1996' published ***************************************************** A report entitled "Demographic Trends in Hong Kong 1981-1996" was published by the Census and Statistics Department today (Tuesday). The report describes the population growth and distribution, the age-sex structure and the patterns of fertility, mortality and nuptiality. It also explores the interactions that occur between these elements. The report also examines Hong Kong's demographic changes from an international perspective, comparing the patterns that occurred in other territories. The population of Hong Kong increased from 5.18 million in 1981 by some 1.13 million to 6.31 million in 1996. Concomitant with this population growth, there were also remarkable demographic developments. The population shows a continuing dejuvenation and aging trend. This is attributable to the declining fertility and the continuous mortality improvement experienced in the last 15 years. The marriage rates of bachelors and spinsters decreased markedly but the remarriage rates of divorced and widowed persons increased steadily. The report, which is in bilingual form, is now on sale at $40 per copy. Purchases can be made at the Government Publications Centre, ground floor, Low Block, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway, Hong Kong. It is also available at the Publications Unit of the Census and Statistics Department, 19th floor, Wanchai Tower, 12 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong. End 20. Quarterly report on General Household Survey published ****************************************************** The report on the General Household Survey for July - September 1997 in bilingual form is now available for sale. The report contains statistics on employment, unemployment and underemployment for the third quarter of 1997. It also contains detailed analyses of the characteristics of members of the labour force, including their age, sex, educational attainment, activity status, occupation, industry, hours worked per week and monthly employment earnings. Data on reasons for unemployment and duration of unemployment for the unemployed are also presented. Copies of the report at $48 each can be obtained from the Government Publications Centre, ground floor, Low Block, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway, Hong Kong. Meanwhile, the Census and Statistics Department will continue to conduct the General Household Survey during the quarter from January to March 1998. The survey, conducted on a continuous basis, aims to collect information on the labour force, unemployment and underemployment. An official letter will be sent to the sampled households prior to each survey month to explain the purpose of the Survey and to seek their voluntary co- operation. Officers of the department will visit the households concerned to collect the required information. When visiting households, they carry with them a Government Identity Card and a certificate for conducting the Survey. They will make such documents available for inspection by households. To make it more convenient for both the households and the department, the sampled households could telephone the department to make prior appointment for visit by the interviewers. End 21. Hong Kong Monetary Authority tender results ******************************************* Tender date : 30 December 1997 Paper on offer : EF Bills Issue number : Q165 Issue date : 31 December 1997 Maturity date : 27 January 1998 Amount applied : HK$10,720 MN Amount allotted : HK$5,000 MN Average yield accepted : 5.91 PCT Highest yield accepted : 6.09 PCT Pro rata ratio : About 75 PCT Average tender yield : 6.14 PCT - - - - - Tender date : 30 December 1997 Paper on offer : EF Bills Issue number : Q753 Issue date : 31 December 1997 Maturity date : 1 April 1998 Amount applied : HK$4,360 MN Amount allotted : HK$2,000 MN Average yield accepted : 7.49 PCT Highest yield accepted : 7.80 PCT Pro rata ratio : About 7 PCT Average tender yield : 7.70 PCT - - - - - Tender date : 30 December 1997 Paper on offer : EF Bills Issue number : H781 Issue date : 31 December 1997 Maturity date : 2 July 1998 Amount applied : HK$2,610 MN Amount allotted : HK$1,000 MN Average yield accepted : 8.52 PCT Highest yield accepted : 8.69 PCT Pro rata ratio : About 100 PCT Average tender yield : 8.80 PCT - - - - - Hong Kong Monetary Authority tenders to be held in the week beginning January 5, 1998:- Tender date : 6 January 1998 Paper on offer : EF Bills Issue number : Q166 Issue date : 7 January 1998 Maturity date : 4 February 1998 Tenor : 28 Days Amount on offer : HK$5,000 MN - - - - - Tender date : 6 January 1998 Paper on offer : EF Bills Issue number : Q801 Issue date : 7 January 1998 Maturity date : 8 April 1998 Tenor : 91 Days Amount on offer : HK$2,000 + 500 MN End
