Transcript of remarks by CE at media session before ExCo meeting (with video)
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Reporter: First, the Hong Kong University Council reportedly is calling a meeting on alleged mismanagement accusations laid against Zhang Xiang. Are you concerned about the developments? Second, the Hong Kong golfer Taichi Kho bagged a gold medal in Hangzhou and he actually had previously called for preserving the old course of Fanling Hong Kong Golf Club. Will you have a second thought on the housing plan at the Fanling golf course in light of this development and achievement, and will the Government ease the property market cooling measures? Thank you.
Chief Executive: The management of affairs of HKU (University of Hong Kong) is an internal matter for the HKU Council and the Vice-Chancellor to do what they are required under the system, and they have clear responsibilities under the present guidelines. It is a matter for the Council and the Vice-Chancellor to address and to deal with. What is important is things should be handled in accordance with laid-down procedures, and any matter should be dealt with in a fair and impartial manner. It is the system of universities in Hong Kong that they manage internal affairs of this nature, so it should be best dealt with by the Council and the Vice-Chancellor in accordance with the procedure.
In regard to the good result by Mr Kho, I first of all congratulate him. The Government's position is very clear. Whatever will happen to the final decision of the Town Planning Board, we have made a promise that the part of the land that has been taken back by the Hong Kong Government will be lent to organisers of events. We will also give assistance to organisers so as to ensure that events can take place in the golf course. Whether it is the old course or the new course, we have made that commitment. Competition events can happen and there will be no problem with it, because we have promised we will give assistance including giving sufficient preparation time.
Your last question on property market, I have heard a lot of opinions and suggestions. The Government of course will study all these and make a decision.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Tuesday, October 3, 2023
Issued at HKT 12:33
Issued at HKT 12:33
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Audio / Video
CE meets the media