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The Land and Building Advisory Committee today (May 6) discussed the suggestions on improvements to tree felling application procedures.

"Members generally welcome the Lands Department's effort to improve the handling of tree felling applications," the Chairman of the Committee, Professor Yeung Yue-man, said after the meeting.

"Overall, members recognize the significance of tree preservation in enhancing the quality of our living environment and agree that it is necessary for the Government to strike a balance between environmental concerns and development projects," he added.

The Committee also discussed the building issues as revealed in the investigation into the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) at Amoy Gardens.

"The Committee generally agree that the current regulatory framework over the design and standard of drainage systems is adequate. To prevent the outbreak of infectious diseases, it is incumbent upon the residents themselves to maintain their drainage system in good repair and to keep their living environment clean," said Professor Yeung.

The Committee also discussed the proposed framework and guiding principles for reviewing the system of advisory and statutory bodies in the public sector. The review, being conducted by the Home Affairs Bureau, aims at enhancing the effectiveness, representativeness and transparency of advisory and statutory bodies.

This is the first meeting of the new term of the Committee. The Committee has 11 new Members. Professor Yeung Yue-man has been re-appointed as the Chairman.

End/Tuesday, May 6, 2003

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