The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr James Lau, visited the Kowloon City District today (October 30). He toured a green office, social service facilities and a social enterprise, and met with members of the Kowloon City District Council (KCDC) to learn more about the latest developments and needs of the district.

     Mr Lau first visited the green office of the Architectural Services Department on 1/F of APB Centre, where he learnt more about how the department made use of environmental-friendly features in its renovation project for sustainable development. The green office was renovated from a storage place and it is the first government office in Hong Kong that achieved Platinum Rating under BEAM Plus Interiors Accreditation.

     He said that to showcase the Government's support for sustainable development and determination to tackle climate change, and to promote the development of green finance, the Administration is actively studying the issuance of green bonds in the next financial year for financing government green projects, including those that achieved BEAM Plus accreditation.
         
     Mr Lau then proceeded to Wong Cho Tong Social Service Building of the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, where he was briefed by the staff on the various facilities and services available. Opened in March 2001, the building provides elderly care and one-stop community support services for local residents; and offers vocational training and hostel service to assist persons with intellectual disabilities to work and live independently.

     At the Project Dance Studio operated by the Jockey Club Farm Road Youth S.P.O.T. of the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, Mr Lau watched dance rehearsals and chatted with the trainees to understand how they pursued ideals by taking part in dance performance. The studio is a social enterprise, established in February 2012, which offers dance training, job and career opportunities to young dance enthusiasts.

     Before concluding the visit, Mr Lau met with KCDC members to exchange views on issues including development of Hong Kong's mobile payment, tax system and bank account opening.

Ends/Monday, October 30, 2017
Issued at HKT 20:03

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