Issued by Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government Information Services
Garden Road, 5th-8th Floors, Murray Building, Hong Kong. Tel: 2842 8777
Wednesday, December 17, 1997
CONTENTS
========
1. International conference to mark end of Year of Heritage
2. Experience sharing conference on Charter for Youth
3. Park and ride scheme steps forth
4. Fishermen deckhands scheme revised
5. Companies Ordinance review consultation period extended
6. Appointment of lay members to Insider Dealing Tribunal
7. Nine ambulancemen to be commended
8. Results of tender exercise to sell government quarters
9. Students click from Internet to Intranet
10. 96 convicted pollution cases in November
11. Seminar on building management for Tsuen Wan residents
1. International conference to mark end of Year of Heritage
********************************************************
An international conference on "Heritage and
Education" was officially opened by the Chief Executive,
Mr Tung Chee Hwa, at a ceremony in the Hong Kong
Convention and Exhibition Centre Extension today
(Wednesday).
The conference, attended by some 300 participants, is
to mark the successful conclusion of the Year of Heritage.
About 50 local and overseas speakers will present
papers at plenary and concurrent sessions of the two-day
conference.
They come from the Mainland, Hong Kong, Macau, India,
Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, the United
States, Canada, Australia, Mexico, Bermuda, and the United
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation
(UNESCO).
The Conference will examine the different roles
played by various parties in heritage education. They
include the government, international organisations,
schools, museums, heritage institutions, learned
societies, media, publishers and commercial concerns.
It will also address the educational aspect of
heritage conservation through case studies and provide a
forum for international heritage workers to share their
valuable experiences in the field.
Exhibitions on local heritage and the work and
achievements of local and overseas institutions on
heritage education are also staged at the venue of the
conference.
Also attending today's opening ceremony were the
Director of State Bureau of Cultural Relics of the
People's Republic of China, Mr Zhang Wenbin; the Chairman
of the Board of Trustees of the Lord Wilson Heritage
Trust, Mr Alexander Au Siu-kee; the Chairman of the
Council of the Lord Wilson Heritage Trust, the Hon Edward
Ho Sing-tin; the Chairman of the Antiquities Advisory
Board, Professor David Lung; and the Secretary for
Broadcasting, Culture and Sport, Mr Chau Tak-hay.
End
2. Experience sharing conference on Charter for Youth
**************************************************
A review conference will be held on December 20
(Saturday) for subscribers to the Charter for Youth, young
people and youth workers to share their experience in
fulfilling the provisions of the charter.
Speaking at a press briefing today (Wednesday),
Chairman of the Preparatory Committee for the conference,
Dr Choi Yuen-wan, said that it would be attended by some
600 people who cared or were involved with the well-being
of youth.
The Conference on the Review of the Implementation of
the Charter for Youth 1997 will be held from 9 am to 5 pm
at Theatre One of Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition
Centre. It will include keynote address, speeches,
presentation/panel discussions, and a youth forum.
"I hope that through this conference, subscribers
would come up with innovative ideas to further promote and
realise the spirit of the Charter. It is also hoped that
the conference would help in setting the society's
priority and direction for youth development in the coming
years.
"The conference is the second biennial review of the
implementation of the Charter by subscribers. So far,
about 400 organisations and 2,000 individuals have
subscribed to the Charter," Dr Choi said.
The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa; Executive
Council member, Ms Rosanna Wong; Chairman of the
Commission on Youth, Mr Eric Lee; Commission on Youth
member, Professor Daniel Shek and Dr Choi will speak at
the conference on topics relating to youth.
There will be a presentation session in which 13
organisation subscribers will introduce their projects on
how they had fulfilled the ideals of the Charter, followed
by panel discussions.
In the afternoon session, VIPs, youth organisations,
representatives of youth-related bodies and youth
representatives will attend a youth forum. They will
exchange their views in four main areas, namely, youth
education, youth participation, youth development and
Charter for Youth.
The youth forum will be moderated by Mr Tai Kin-man
of RTHK and the four panel speakers are Executive Council
member, Mr Leung Kam-chung; Director of Hong Kong
Christian Service, Mr Ng Shui-lai; HK Special
Administrative Region Fencing Team member, Ms Ho Ka-lai;
and Mr Eric Li.
The conference is open to all who cares for the well-
being of youth. Enquiries can be directed to the
Secretariat of the Commission on Youth on 2835 1929.
Meanwhile, Dr Choi noted that the Commission on Youth
had recently set up an Internet Homepage
(www2.uzone.com.hk/youthcharter/). It features a story on
young artiste Gigi Leung with a bearing on the goals and
ideals of the Charter for Youth and a psychological test
on self-evaluation. Members of the public can also e-mail
their views to the Commission on the Charter and specific
issues relating to youth.
The Charter for Youth was promulgated by the
Commission on Youth in July 1993. It enunciates the
principles and ideals on youth development and provides a
point of reference for policy-makers, youth service
providers and other parties involved in promoting the
welfare of youth.
It operates on a system of subscription by
organisations and individuals to promote the development
of youth in accordance with the charter on a voluntary
basis.
End
3. Park and ride scheme steps forth
********************************
A traffic management scheme for motorists to park
their cars and ride on public transport for travel between
New Territories and the urban areas will be put on trial
this Friday (December 19) evening.
The Park and Ride (P&R) Scheme, first of its kind in
Hong Kong, is held in collaboration with Kowloon Canton
Railway Corporation (KCRC).
Announcing the trial today (Wednesday), Chief Traffic
Engineer (New Territories East) of the Transport
Department, Mr Sin Kwok-keung, said: "The P&R scheme is to
promote efficient use of existing road networks.
"Congestion on major traffic corridors and the urban
areas will be alleviated by encouraging the use of public
transport.
"Parking demand in urban areas will also be reduced.
"This helps easing the territory-wide parking problem
as supplies of parking spaces is tight especially in urban
areas due to limited availability of lands."
The trial will be for 12 months, with New Territories
North being selected for initial test-run.
An open air P&R carpark will be provided at Choi Yuen
Road near Sheung Shui KCR Station.
Motorists can park their vehicles there and complete
their trips by changing to KCR train instead of driving
all their ways to the urban areas.
Mr Sin said: "Residents from the northern part of New
Territories will benefit most from the scheme.
"Journey time will be much reduced as motorists can
avoid traffic congestion between New Territories and the
Kowloon areas.
"A journey by car from Sheung Shui to Kowloon will
normally take about 80 minutes. It will be reduced to
about 40 minutes if motorists choose to use P&R and change
for KCR train for their destinations.
"Moreover, travelling by train will be more
comfortable and relaxing."
P&R users are required to show evidences of using
public transport for their destinations.
Motorists have to stamp their parking tickets at the
P&R stamping machines at any one of the KCR stations in
Kowloon (Kowloon Tong, Mong Kok or Hung Hom).
Stamping must be completed within 90 minutes from the
time they park their vehicles at the P&R car park.
On their return journeys, motorists have to stamp
again their parking tickets at either of the KCR stations
in Kowloon and arrive at Sheung Shui P&R car park within
90 minutes.
Mr Sin noted that the stamping arrangement is to
deter the abuse of the P&R system.
"All stamping machines are installed at convenient
locations in the KCR stations in Kowloon and will not
cause any delay or trouble to the public," Mr Sin added.
The P&R carpark at Sheung Shui has about 200 parking
spaces.
"During the commencement of the trial, a
concessionary parking charge of $3 per hour will be
offered to P&R users between 5 am and 2 am after midnight
daily except Sundays and public holidays," Mr Sin said.
A small number of the parking spaces will be
available for monthly parking and hourly parking to meet
local demand.
Hourly parking fee will be $12 per hour from 7 am to
midnight and $8 per hour from midnight to 7 am daily.
Monthly parking fee will be $1,200 per month.
All parking charges are subject to review to ensure
the P&R scheme will be operated as intended.
Opinion surveys to assess public's acceptance of the
scheme will be conducted at the P&R car park.
Mr Sin appealed to all motorists to support the
survey and co-operate with staff of the department.
"Whether the system will be extended to other areas
in the territory will be subject to the responses of
motorists and the result of the trial," Mr Sin added.
End
4. Fishermen deckhands scheme revised
**********************************
The Government announced today (Wednesday) that the
Mainland Fishermen Deckhands Scheme has been revised to
benefit more fishing vessel owners operating outside Hong
Kong waters.
A government spokesman said the new arrangements of
the scheme, approved by the Executive Council on December
9, would alleviate the manpower shortage of fishing vessel
operators in unloading their catches in wholesale fish
markets and help maintain a steady supply of fresh marine
fish to Hong Kong.
He said: "The revised scheme will benefit those
smaller fishing vessels operating in waters closer to Hong
Kong, which have the same difficulties in recruiting
deckhands locally as those distant-water fleet but
excluded under the current arrangements.
"The revised scheme will cover fishing vessels not
less than 20 metres in length or with an engine power of
not less than 200 horsepower, habitually engaging in
fishing outside Hong Kong waters for three days or more at
a time.
"Following careful consideration of manpower
requirements, the deckhand quota has been increased from
3,500 to 5,500 to meet the needs of the fishing fleets to
land catches at local wholesale fish markets," he said.
The Mainland Fishermen Deckhands Scheme was
introduced in 1995 to enable the smooth operation of Hong
Kong's distant-water fishing fleet as well as to tighter
immigration control over the entry of mainland deckhands.
Views of fishing community had been taken into
consideration in the revised arrangements during the
review process.
A multiple journey visa valid for one year and good
for a stay of up to seven days on each landing would be
issued to the successful recruit stipulating that the
holder should be engaged solely in the operation of
specified vessel at all times and may travel only between
that vessel and not more than two wholesale fish markets
named by the vessel operator.
"The master will be required to report his vessel's
arrival and the number of mainland deckhands on board to
the Harbour Control Section of the Immigration Department
within three hours of arrival and present his deckhand
list and their travel documents within 24 hours for
immigration clearance," the spokesman said.
"This arrangement will allow Hong Kong-based fishing
vessels to proceed directly to the wholesale fish markets
with their employed deckhands without going through
clearance procedures at the immigration anchorages.
"Similar documentary procedures will be followed on
departure," he said.
The spokesman pointed out that Hong Kong-based
fishing vessels played an important role in the supply of
fresh fish to Hong Kong accounting for about 70 per cent
of the fresh marine fish consumed.
Application forms are now obtainable from the
Agriculture and Fisheries Department (AFD) and the
Immigration Department. Completed forms should be
submitted to the AFD between January 2 and February 6,
1998.
Enquiries about the new arrangement may be directed
to the Agriculture and Fisheries Department on 2733 2201
or to the Immigration Department on 2534 7117.
End
5. Companies Ordinance review consultation period extended
*******************************************************
The public consultation period for the Review of the
Companies Ordinance has been extended for three months
until March 31, 1998.
A government spokesman explained today (Wednesday)
that the extension was made in the light of requests from
some major professional organisations.
"Given the scope and complexity of the subject
matter, they are now given more time to prepare
substantive submissions," the spokesman said.
The consultation period is originally scheduled to
last until December 31, 1997.
In early 1995, the Government commissioned a
consultant to carry out a comprehensive review of the
Companies Ordinance. The consultant completed his report
in March this year.
"The Consultancy Report makes wide-ranging
recommendations on reforming Hong Kong's company law,
which is one of the longest and most complex pieces of
legislation on the Hong Kong statute book," added the
spokesman.
Since the launch of the public consultation, over
1,300 copies of the Consultancy Report have been
distributed to members of the public at the Companies
Registry.
The Report and the Executive Summary are also
available at the following web sites on the Internet:
(1) English version of the Report and the Executive
Summary
http://www.info.gov.hk/info/cmpny.htm
(2) Chinese translation of the Executive Summary
http://www.info.gov.hk/info/ccmpny.htm
Comments on the Consultancy Report should be sent to
Mr D O Kitchell, Secretary, Standing Committee on Company
Law Reform at the Companies Registry, 15th floor, High
Block, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway, Hong
Kong.
End
6. Appointment of lay members to Insider Dealing Tribunal
******************************************************
The Financial Secretary has appointed Mr Sze Tsai-
ping, Michael; and Mr Chow Fu-kee, Felix, as lay members
to the Insider Dealing Tribunal set up to inquire into
possible insider dealing in the listed securities of the
Emperor (China Concept) Investments Ltd during the period
from October 7 to 11, 1993 (inclusive).
The appointments were made in accordance with section
15(2) and section 15(5) of the Securities (Insider
Dealing) Ordinance, and with paragraph 3 of the Schedule
thereto.
Mr Sze is the Managing Director of NSC Securities
(Asia) Ltd and Mr Chow is the Alternate Director and
Consultant to Managing Director of First Shanghai
Investments Ltd. They will be sitting in the Tribunal
under the chairmanship of Mr Justice Burrell.
Preliminary hearing of the case will be held tomorrow
(Thursday) at 2.30 pm in Room 702, Peregrine Tower, Lippo
Centre, 89 Queensway.
End
7. Nine ambulancemen to be commended
*********************************
Nine ambulancemen of the Fire Services Department
from Yuen Long and Sha Tin depots will receive the Chief
Ambulance Officer's Commendation and Favourable Entry
respectively at a ceremony tomorrow (Thursday) afternoon
for their efforts in saving the lives of two people.
Six ambulancemen, namely principal ambulanceman Ma
Tat-ming, senior ambulancemen Poon Wai-keung and Wong Sai-
hoi, and ambulancemen Kan Fuk-cheung, Tang Tai-wai and
Chiu Wai-hung, will receive the Chief Ambulance Officer's
Commendation from the acting Chief Ambulance Officer,
Mr Chan Kwong-ching.
At the same ceremony, the acting principal
ambulanceman Law Tin-loi, senior ambulanceman Chan Hung,
and ambulanceman Lee Wai-pui will each receive a
Favourable Entry in their personal record for saving the
life of a man.
Mr Poon, Mr Wong and Mr Chiu were commended for
applying cardio-pulmonary resuscitation and the
defibrillator on a man who was in trouble on September 22
this year.
Mr Law, Mr Chan and Mr Lee, who later arrived in an
emergency ambulance, were commended for successfully
restoring heartbeat and breath to the patient.
Mr Ma, Mr Kan and Mr Tang were commended for rescuing
a woman in a clinic by applying cardio-pulmonary
resuscitation and the defibrillator on August 13 this
year.
End
8. Results of tender exercise to sell government quarters
******************************************************
The Government Property Agency announced today
(Wednesday) the results of the recent public tender
exercise to sell government quarters to end-users.
The agency received only one tender for the 40 Baguio
Villa flats advertised for sale.
Details of the successful tender are as follows:
Baguio Villa Block 42, 28th floor and Car Park No. 9
Reserved price : $14,000,000
Successful bid : $14,004,000
As announced earlier, the second batch of 40 Baguio
Villa flats will be offered for tender on December 30.
Together with the 39 unsold units in this batch, a total
of 79 Baguio Villa flats will be available.
End
9. Students click from Internet to Intranet
****************************************
The Education Department and the Hongkong Telecom IMS
today (Wednesday) launched a pilot scheme in 30 schools to
explore the application of Internet and Intranet
technology in teaching and learning.
The Director of Education, Mrs Helen C P Lai Yu; and
the Managing Director of Hongkong Telecom IMS, Dr William
Lo, officiated at a signing ceremony to kick off the
scheme. Details of the scheme were afterwards explained
to school principals and other participants.
The pilot scheme is sponsored by Hongkong Telecom IMS
in the region of $5 million.
During the nine-month pilot period commencing
December 1997, 30 schools of different types, along with
the Education Department and Hongkong Telecom IMS, will
jointly explore the application of Internet and Intranet
technology in different dimensions of education and
establish in the Intranet those teaching and learning
resources which meet local needs.
In the education Intranet, teachers and students will
be able to exchange views and resources, share experiences
and hold discussions. Teachers and students from schools
in different regions will be able to team up to carry out
study projects.
Hongkong Telecom IMS will organise a series of
training courses for students and teachers of the
participating schools. The courses include basic
knowledge on Internet and Intranet, construction of
homepages, management of Web sites and compilation of
computer-assisted packages.
The pilot scheme will also feature various
activities, including setting up of subject groups,
discussion forums and Homepage competition. Participants
will not only come from schools, but also include
inspectors from the Education Department and experts from
Hongkong Telecom IMS who will provide professional advice.
In his Policy Address, the Chief Executive, Mr Tung
Chee Hwa, has indicated commitment to enhance information
technology education in secondary and primary schools.
The implementation and evaluation of the pilot scheme
will provide invaluable experience to the planning of an
information technology strategy in education.
End
10. 96 convicted pollution cases in November
****************************************
A total of 96 convictions were recorded in courts in
November for breaching anti-pollution legislation enforced
by the Environmental Protection Department.
Of these cases, 23 were convictions made under the
Water Pollution Control Ordinance (WPCO), 26 under the
Noise Control Ordinance (NCO), 11 under the Air Pollution
Control Ordinance (APCO), 35 under the Waste Disposal
Ordinance (WDO), and one under the Ozone Layer Protection
Ordinance (OLPO).
The fines ranged from $200 to $150,000.
Chun Wo Building Construction Limited was fined for
$150,000 twice last month for breaching the Noise Control
Ordinance.
End
11. Seminar on building management for Tsuen Wan residents
******************************************************
Members of mutual aid committees, owners'
corporations, owners committees and residents in Tsuen Wan
are invited to attend a building management seminar at the
Hall of Princess Alexandra Community Centre, Tai Ho Road,
Tsuen Wan, on Friday (December 19).
The scheduled talks, organised by the Tsuen Wan
District Office, will cover topics of fire preventive
measures in buildings, control and enforcement actions on
unauthorised building works and security problems in
buildings.
Participants can take part in a floor discussion with
guest speakers and share valuable experiences with each
other.
The seminar will be held from 2.15 pm to 5 pm.
Admission is free.
Three guest speakers have been invited to talk on
their respective areas of expertise on building
management. They are Mr Chau Sau-wang, Senior Station
Officer of the Fire Services Department; Mr Tam Wing-
cheung, Building Surveyor of the Buildings Department; and
Police Inspector of the Crime Prevention Unit, Mr Ko Kam-
pui.
Enquires can be made on 2490 7259.
End
PROVISIONAL LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL MEETING SUPPLEMENT
CONTENTS
========
1. S for S moves long-term prison sentences review regulation
2. Closure of EMSD accounts
3. HK Export Credit Insurance Corporation Ordinance
4. Pharmacy and Poisons (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulation
5. Protection of the Harbour (Amendment) Bill 1997
6. Impact of EMU on the economy of Hong Kong
7. Computerisation facilitates reporting cases
8. FSD reviewing control over storage of dangerous goods
9. Crowd control measures during fireworks displays
10. Control measures of H5N1 virus
11. Measures to build up a positive image for the elderly
12. Civil Servants' declaration systems under review
13. Dispensing system under review
14. Greenhouse gases emissions
15. Services render to employees affected by retrenchment
16. Participation in international environmental conferences
17. Plan to increase paramedic ambulances
18. Blasting accident in Sau Mau Ping
19. Professional qualifications of dispensary staff
20. Management fees of Home Ownership Scheme
21. Traffic accidents involving green minibuses
22. Fire safety of old buildings
1. S for S moves long-term prison sentences review regulation
**********************************************************
Following is a speech by the Secretary for Security,
Mr Peter Lai, in moving a motion on the Long-term Prison
Sentences Review Regulation in the Provisional Legislative
Council today (Wednesday):
Madam President,
I move the motion standing in my name on the Agenda.
The Long-term Prison Sentences Review Ordinance,
enacted in June this year, provides, among other things,
for the establishment of the statutory Long-term Prison
Sentences Review Board, with improved and updated
procedures which enhance the transparency, efficiency and
fairness of our prison sentence review and remission
system. The Board, which replaces its non-statutory
predecessor, may, among other things, recommend to the
Chief Executive that certain prisoners' sentences be
changed.
The new Ordinance sets out, in broad terms, the
Board's functions and the sentence review procedures. A
detailed set of procedures need to be specified, through
subsidiary legislation, to facilitate the implementation
of the Ordinance and increase the transparency of the
sentence review procedures.
Therefore, we propose that the Long-term Prison
Sentence Review Regulation be made to set out details
concerning the following matters -
First, to specify the factors which the Board may
consider when it reviews a prisoner's sentence, such as
the nature of the offence, the prisoner's criminal record,
etc.;
Secondly, to set out the conditions which the Board
may include in a supervision order, such as the
supervisee's obligation to report to the supervising
officer;
Thirdly, to empower the Commissioner of Correctional
Services to specify the forms of the orders made under the
Ordinance;
Fourthly, to allow two or more Board members to, if
necessary, interview a prisoner whose sentence is to be
reviewed; and
Fifthly, to provide for the circumstances under which
I may specify a place for conducting the Board's
proceedings.
We have consulted this Council's Panel on Security on
the proposed Regulation.
Madam President, I beg to move.
End
2. Closure of EMSD accounts
************************
Following is a speech by the Secretary for the
Treasury, Mr K C Kwong, in moving the closure of the
Electrical and Mechanical Services Department Suspense
Account and Workshop Services Suspense Account in the
Provisional Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Madam President,
I move the motion standing in my name on the Agenda.
The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department
Suspense Account and the Electrical and Mechanical
Services Department Workshop Services Suspense Account
were set up by resolution of the then Legislative Council
on November 28, 1990 and February 24, 1993 respectively.
These accounts were set up to enable the Electrical and
Mechanical Services Department to account for its workshop
and vehicle maintenance, and ancillary services operations
in a commercial manner and to promote greater cost-
consciousness amongst users of vehicle maintenance and
workshop services.
As the accounting functions of the two Suspense
Accounts have been taken over by the Electrical and
Mechanical Services Trading Fund established on August 1,
1996, we propose to close these Accounts with effect from
December 31, 1997. The Electrical and Mechanical Services
Department Suspense Account has no assets nor liabilities
on that date. The net proceeds on disposal of stock and
the cumulative surplus recorded in the Electrical and
Mechanical Services Department Workshop Services Suspense
Account over the years totalling around $200 million will
revert to the General Revenue Account.
Although the Public Finance Ordinance does not
require that the Suspense Accounts be closed by
resolution, the then Attorney General's Chamber advised
that it would be more orderly to have a Legislative
Council resolution for the closure of the two Suspense
Accounts. This is in accordance with normal procedure for
closure of suspense accounts and to ensure the method of
disposal of surplus balances is properly specified.
Closure of these two Suspense Accounts will have no impact
on Government finances overall.
Madam President, I beg to move.
End
3. HK Export Credit Insurance Corporation Ordinance
************************************************
Following is a speech by the Secretary for Trade and
Industry, Miss Denise Yue, in moving a motion relating to
the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation
Ordinance in the Provisional Legislative Council today
(Wednesday):
President, I move the motion standing in my name in
the Order Paper.
In March 1991, the maximum contingent liability of
the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation was
increased from $6,000 million to $7,500 million under
section 23 of the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance
Corporation Ordinance. Since then, the Corporation's
contingent liability under contracts of insurance has
risen by an average of $440 million per year. As of
October 31, 1997, the figure stood at $7,303 million.
An increase of the statutory maximum contingent
liability is needed by the Hong Kong Export Credit
Insurance Corporation to cater for the normal growth in
insured business under the extant insurance policies of
the Corporation, and to support the diversification of the
Corporation's portfolio in tailoring policies for small
and medium enterprises as well as the services sector. In
addition, demand for medium term cover for insurance
policies is expected to grow, which also put pressure on
the contingent liability of the Corporation.
The Corporation has, therefore, recommended that the
maximum contingent liability be increased by $2,500
million to $10,000 million. This request has the support
of the statutory advisory board of the ECIC. Failure to
raise this limit would render the Corporation unable to
accommodate its normal business expansion and would
discourage exports of both goods and services.
I would like to stress that the maximum liability is
a theoretical contingent amount which is most unlikely to
be at risk in totality at any one time.
President, I beg to move.
End
4. Pharmacy and Poisons (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulation
***************************************************
Following is a speech by the Secretary for Economic
Services, Mr Stephen Ip, in moving the Pharmacy and
Poisons (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulation 1997 in the
Provisional Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Madam President,
I move that the Pharmacy and Poisons (Amendment) (No.
2) Regulation 1997 as set out under my name in the paper
circulated to Members be approved.
The Veterinary Surgeons Registration Ordinance, which
was enacted on June 29, 1997, provides for the
registration of veterinary surgeons. We intend shortly to
bring into effect section 16 of the Ordinance, which
provides that only a registered veterinary surgeon with a
valid practising certificate can practise veterinary
surgery in Hong Kong.
It is essential for the smooth continuation of
veterinary services and effective regulation of the
profession that other legislation with references to
veterinary surgeons should be consistent with the
provisions of the Veterinary Surgeons Registration
Ordinance.
The proposed regulation amends the Pharmacy and
Poisons Regulations so that references therein to duly
qualified veterinary surgeons are replaced with references
to registered veterinary surgeons.
The proposed regulation will be brought into effect
concurrently with section 16 of the Veterinary Surgeons
Registration Ordinance.
Madam President, I beg to move.
End
5. Protection of the Harbour (Amendment) Bill 1997
***********************************************
Following is a speech by the Secretary for Planning,
Environment and Lands, Mr Bowen Leung, in moving the
second reading of the Protection of the Harbour
(Amendment) Bill 1997 in the Provisional Legislative
Council today (Wednesday):
Madam President,
I move the second reading of the Protection of the
Harbour (Amendment) Bill 1997.
The Bill serves three purposes. First, it introduces
a more refined definition of "reclamation" to remove the
ambiguities created by the definition under the existing
Ordinance which was simply borrowed from that in the
Foreshore and Sea-bed (Reclamations) Ordinance. As a
result, works and projects that may not be reclamation in
the normal sense of the word, for example, the repair of a
cable on the seabed or routine maintenance of facilities
within the harbour, would have been affected by the
Ordinance.
To avoid the definition of reclamation from being
interpreted to affect and/or cause delay to essential and
sometimes urgent works or projects that do not relate to
reclaiming land, we propose to refine the definition of
reclamation to refer to only "works or projects carried
out for the purpose of reclaiming land from the seabed or
foreshore so that it may be used for dry land purposes".
This new definition will more accurately define the scope
of works and projects concerned to better reflect the
principle and spirit of the Ordinance.
Second, the Bill seeks to remove references in the
Long Title to provisions in the original Protection of the
Harbour Bill that were not enacted. In the original Bill,
there were provisions that required reclamation projects
to be approved by the Legislative Council and
consequential amendments to be made to other Ordinances.
These provisions had been dropped in the course of the
previous Committee Stage amendments and had not been
enacted. Hence, the references to these provisions are
incorrect and should be deleted from the Long Title.
Third, the Protection of the Harbour Ordinance covers
only the "central harbour". The boundaries of the
"central harbour" are defined in Schedule 1 of the
Ordinance. However, in the title of Section 3 and the
Long Title of the Ordinance, references are made to "the
harbour", instead of "the central harbour". To avoid any
ambiguity that might arise, we propose to replace "the
harbour" by "the central harbour" in these two places,
where appropriate.
I would like to re-affirm that this amendment Bill is
essential to ensure that non-reclamation works and
projects in the central harbour would not be unduly
disrupted by the ambiguities that might arise from the
interpretation of the existing Ordinance. A lot of these
works and projects are essential to the normal operation
of our economy. I appeal Members to give this amendment
Bill favourable consideration.
Thank you, Madam President.
End
6. Impact of EMU on the economy of Hong Kong
*****************************************
Following is a question by the Hon Tien Pei-chun and
a reply by the Secretary for Trade and Industry, Miss
Denise Yue, in the Provisional Legislative Council today
(Wednesday):
Question:
It is learnt that the European Monetary Unification
(EMU) will come into effect on January 1, 1999. In this
connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(a) whether it has studied the impact of the EMU on
the economy of Hong Kong, especially the export and re-
export trade of Hong Kong; if so, what the findings are;
and
(b) how government policy bureaux such as the Trade
and Industry Bureau, and relevant organisations such as
the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, will assist the
industrial and commercial sectors in coping with the
change and other associated problems?
Reply:
According to the Maastricht Treaty on European Union
signed in 1992, the European Union would introduce a
single European currency by January 1999. The new
European currency, called the Euro, would replace the
national currencies of participating member states by the
year 2002, thereby completing the process of economic and
monetary union (EMU).
To ensure a smooth and practicable transition, it was
decided in the Maastricht Treaty that all participating
members must fulfil convergence criteria on public
finances, inflation, interest rates and exchange rates.
In doing so, member states need to tighten both their
fiscal and monetary policies in order to meet the
criteria. This has generated a contractionary effect on
economic growth and on employment for the member states
concerned. As such, trade with, and more specifically
imports into, the European Union is expected to continue
to suffer in the interim. Hong Kong's exports to these
economies have been dampened as a result.
The Government has been monitoring closely the
development of the Euro. The elimination of exchange rate
risks and reduction in transaction costs will make
European products more competitive in their extended
domestic market, thus fostering further growth in intra-
trade within the Euro area, possibly at the expense of
trade with the newly industrialised economies in East Asia
and with the rest of the world.
However, the convergence criteria as laid down in the
Maastricht Treaty, if closely observed, should help to
strengthen the macroeconomic fundamentals of the member
states. Greater price and exchange rate stability, lower
interest rates and more prudent public finances are all
conducive to overall economic growth and development in
the Euro area. This in turn will stimulate their demand
for imports. Moreover, trade between the European Union
and Hong Kong is in practice largely complementary, with
Hong Kong's exports to the European Union comprising
mainly consumer goods, and with Hong Kong's imports from
the European Union being mostly material inputs, capital
goods and semi-manufactures. Hence, with a better
economic performance in the European Union, Hong Kong
should be able to find increasing trading opportunities
there.
In the longer term, the outlook for Hong Kong's trade
with the European Union will hinge to a considerable
extent on whether or not the Euro area will evolve into a
self-contained and more insular regional trading bloc.
The due process of the World Trade Organisation and the
global trend of trade liberalisation should induce the
European Union to open up more to the rest of the world.
As such, there should still be much scope for expanding
trade with the European Union, provided that Hong Kong can
sharpen further its own competitive edge.
Furthermore, an economically more robust European
Union following the progressive implementation of
structural and market reforms is likely to offer greater
opportunities for inward foreign direct investment,
including that from Hong Kong. As regards outward foreign
direct investment from the European Union, although there
may be some diversion to member states within the European
Union or to the Eastern Europe economies, Hong Kong should
still have its distinct edge in attracting foreign direct
investment considering the strategic position and role of
Hong Kong as a prominent regional business centre and as a
major gateway for doing business with Mainland China.
The Government will continue to monitor closely the
development of the Euro and its possible impact for the
Hong Kong economy. It will continue to facilitate the
enhancement of Hong Kong's competitiveness. Ultimately,
it is the competitiveness of our industrial and commercial
sectors that will determine their ability to cope with the
changes brought about by the economic and monetary union.
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council will continue to
inform companies in Hong Kong of the latest development of
the Euro through its bi-weekly newsletter entitled "EU
Business Alert".
End
7. Computerisation facilitates reporting cases
*******************************************
Following is a question by the Hon Wong Siu-yee and a
reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Peter Lai, in the
Provisional Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
It is learned that the efficiency of the report rooms
in certain police stations in handling the reporting of
cases by the public has been relatively low since the
computerisation of the report rooms. Police officers on
duty relate this to the speed of the computers. In this
regard, will the Government inform this Council:
(a) of the main factors determining the efficiency
of the report room staff in using computers to handle the
reporting of cases;
(b) of the average time taken by the report room
staff in using computers to finish handling a reported
case; and the difference in time, compared to a case
processed manually; and
(c) whether, before the computerisation of the
report rooms of police stations, the authorities had
assessed the ability of prospective users in operating
computers; if so, whether all the current users have
reached the required proficiency standard?
Reply:
Madam President,
The objective of computerising Police report rooms is
to make use of modern information technology to deliver
speedy and quality service to the public. We estimate
that the full system, currently being implemented, will be
completed by April 1998. During the implementation stage,
the Police will closely monitor the progress with a view
to identifying areas of improvements. As regards the
Honourable Member's questions, I wish to respond as
follows:
(a) the processing speed of a case by a computer is
affected by a number of factors including the complexity
of the case being processed, the number of users accessing
the system at any one time, the user's familiarity with
the operation of the computer system and the computer's
processing speed;
(b) the average time taken by the report room staff
to process a case varies depending on the nature of the
case. It ranges from 10 minutes in simple cases to a few
hours in complicated cases with a large number of arrests
and properties involved. With computerisation, the
overall efficiency in the handling of a case has been
greatly enhanced as retrieval or matching of relevant
record can be done more speedily and accurately resulting
in better service for the public. For example, the report
room staff receiving a report of lost property can use the
computer to search in a matter of minutes for any record
of found property received in all Police stations which
matches the description of the lost property, rather than
relying on manual search which could last for days. As
regards the time required for the processing of the
initial report of a case, the preliminary indication is
that it is about the same and in some cases, it is even
less.
(c) the Police Force has arranged all 720 report
room staff to undergo training of up to five days before
the first phase of the computerisation of the report
rooms. Though there is no requirement in the training
courses to pass any test, additional training would be
arranged for those who have difficulties in learning
computers to ensure that they attain the necessary
standard. In addition, computer experts are deployed to
provide on-site support to report room staff during the
initial implementation stage of each report room. A Help
Desk is also set up to provide technical support services
by telephone at any time.
Madam President, in parallel with the computerisation
of report rooms, the Police Force is also implementing
other service quality improvement measures such as
streamlining reporting procedures, improving report room
facilities, providing reception officers in busier report
rooms, receiving and handling simple reports by facsimile
and phone, and making available Police forms on the
internet. The implementation of these measures will
facilitate the reporting of cases by members of the
public.
End
8. FSD reviewing control over storage of dangerous goods
*****************************************************
Following is a question by the Hon Chan Choi-hi and a
reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Peter Lai, in the
Provisional Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
In view of a recent incident in which the employees
of a chemical trading company felt sick after inhaling the
cyanide gas leaking from the storage containers in the
company, will the Government inform this Council whether:
(a) it will review the adequacy of existing
legislation in regulating the storage of industrial toxic
gas in private companies; and
(b) it will consider stepping up inspections so as
ensure that toxic chemicals are properly stored in private
companies?
Reply:
Madam President,
(a) The Dangerous Goods Ordinance provides
legislative control over a wide range of substances which
are potentially dangerous. This legislation governs the
labelling, packaging and storage of such substances.
The storage of cyanide is subject to licensing
control. Under the Dangerous Goods (General) Regulations,
if a person uses or stores metallic cyanides in excess of
5 kg for general purpose or 10 kg for medical purposes, he
has to obtain a dangerous goods licence from the Director
of Fire Services, and the substances must be stored in a
licensed dangerous goods store that complies with the
relevant fire safety requirements issued by FSD. Fire
fighting installations and other safety measures which
have been approved by the Fire Services Department (FSD)
must be provided.
In view of the increase in the number of types of
dangerous goods used by the industries in Hong Kong, the
FSD has been reviewing, among other things, the control
over the storage of dangerous goods under the Dangerous
Goods Ordinance, with a view to updating its provisions
into line with international standards.
(b) All dangerous goods stores licensed by the FSD
are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance
with all safety and security requirements. These
inspections include an annual licence renewal inspection.
A 24-hour complaint hot-line is available for the public
to lodge complaints concerning alleged illegal use or
storage of dangerous goods. All complaints against
dangerous goods are regarded as posing an imminent hazard
and will be followed by immediate investigation.
The FSD has stepped up inspections to commercial and
industrial buildings. Immediate enforcement action will
be taken against any breach of the Dangerous Goods
Ordinance identified during such inspections.
Factory inspectors of the Labour Department also
conduct regular inspections to work places in different
types of buildings to ensure the proper storage and use of
dangerous substances.
End
9. Crowd control measures during fireworks displays
************************************************
Following is a question by the Hon Howard Young and a
reply by the Secretary for Broadcasting, Culture and
Sport, Mr Chau Tak-hay, in the Provisional Legislative
Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
Extensive and stringent crowd control measures
imposed by the Police during the various fireworks
displays this year had caused difficulty to hotels in
providing proper service to guests and affected the
patronage to hotel restaurants. In this connection, will
the Government inform this Council:
(a) whether there will be fireworks displays next
year, including during the Chinese New Year holidays; if
so, of the crowd control measures to take in various
popular viewing sites, such as those along the Victoria
Harbour; and
(b) whether the authority has, since the fireworks
display at Tuen Mun at midnight on January 1, 1997,
imposed more stringent crowd control measures for viewing
fireworks displays; if so, what the reasons are, and
whether it will consider reverting to those measures
previously adopted?
Reply:
Madam President,
While I am responsible for policy related to the
staging of fireworks displays, the logistical support,
including the special traffic and transport arrangements
made in connection with the displays, is provided by
government departments concerned such as the Police and
the Transport Department. The latter part of this reply,
concerning crowd control measures in force during
fireworks displays, is based on information provided by
the Police.
1998 Lunar New Year Fireworks
Since 1982, a fireworks display has been held each
year during the Lunar New Year. There will be a similar
display during the coming Lunar New Year. As with the
previous fireworks displays, the Police will formulate a
suitable crowd control strategy, and make appropriate road
closure and traffic diversion arrangements for this
display. The Transport Department will liaise with the
public transport operators to work out appropriate
arrangements taking account of the road closures.
The practice of restricting use of some of the roads
in Tsim Sha Tsui, Central and Wanchai to pedestrians, and
the related traffic and transport diversions during the
evenings of displays in the Harbour, is to facilitate the
safe passage of the crowds which gather in these areas to
watch the fireworks.
As part of the arrangements for the coming Lunar New
Year display, most of the roads in Tsim Sha Tsui south of
Austin Road will be closed in stages, depending on the
crowd situation. On the Hong Kong side, roads in Central,
Wanchai and Causeway Bay fronting the harbour will also be
restricted to pedestrian use. Bus Terminals at Wanchai
Ferry Pier and Central Ferry Pier will be temporarily
closed.
Crowd Control Measures for Fireworks Displays since
December 31, 1996
Since the fireworks display on December 31, 1996,
there have been four fireworks displays in the harbour,
respectively during the 1997 Lunar New Year and on June
30, July 1 and October 1, 1997. There was also a
fireworks display at the Tsing Ma Bridge on April 27,
1997, but I believe this is not the subject of Mr Young's
question.
For the 1997 Lunar New Year fireworks display, the
measures or procedures adopted by the Police were not more
stringent than those for the 1996 Lunar New Year fireworks
display.
In respect of the other three fireworks displays held
in the harbour in 1997, the extent of road closure on Hong
Kong Island was more or less the same as that adopted for
1996 Lunar New Year display. The one exception was that,
for the display on June 30, 1997, the area normally
available to the public for viewing from the North Wanchai
waterfront was cordoned off due to security considerations
related to the Reunification events taking place that
evening.
However, on the Kowloon side, the southern part of
Canton Road, Kowloon Park Drive and north of Cameron Road
and south of Hillwood Road were closed for the fireworks
displays on June 30, July 1 and October 1 but not for the
fireworks displays during the 1996 and 1997 Lunar New
Years. The reason was that the Police anticipated that a
larger number of spectators would turn up for the displays
held on June 30 and July 1 mainly due to the expected
larger number of tourists, and on October 1, due to the
expected better weather in the autumn. Closing these
roads was necessary to facilitate the arrival and
dispersal of crowds. However, hotel vehicles could enter
the southern part of Canton Road and Kowloon Park Drive if
arrangements had been made with the Police beforehand.
The crowd control measures for the 1998 Lunar New
Year fireworks display have not yet been finalised, but
they should not be more stringent than those adopted for
the 1996 and 1997 Lunar New Year fireworks displays.
One of the primary duties of the Police is to protect
life and ensure public safety. They will continue to
adhere to this principle when policing public events,
including fireworks displays. The Police are also aware
of the need to avoid causing undue inconvenience to
members of the public. In other words, the relevant crowd
control measures, which include the closure of certain
roads, are implemented only when they are considered
strictly necessary for the safety of the general public.
End
10. Control measures of H5N1 virus
******************************
Following is a question by the Hon Lau Kong-wah and a
reply by the Secretary for Health and Welfare, Mrs
Katherine Fok, in the Provisional Legislative Council
today (Wednesday):Questions:
Since August this year, two cases of influenza A
virus H5N1 (commonly knows as the bird influenza) in man
were discovered in Hong Kong. It was also recently
announced by the Department of Health that two new cases
of suspected infection were found. Among the four people
infected, two were dead. Such a trend causes worry that
the bird influenza might be spreading in the territory.
In this connection, will the Government inform this
Council:
(a) whether the Department of Health had immediately
taken action to trace the source and identify the causes
of the infection following the first person contracting
such an illness; if so, what the details are; if not, why
not;
(b) of the reasons for the Department of Health
announcing the second case only recently, as the infected
child had contracted the virus in November;
(c) whether the Department of Health has studied and
pursued the development of a new vaccine for preventing
and curing the infection by this virus; if so, what the
details are; and
(d) of the measures taken by the Department of
Health to step up its guidance to the public on the
prevention of infection by the bird influenza, before the
successful development of a new vaccine?
Reply:
Madam President,
(a) Shortly after the first human case of H5N1
infection was confirmed in August 1997, the Department of
Health has been working closely with the World Health
Organisation and the Centres for Disease Control and
Prevention in the United States to track down the source
of infection and the mode of transmission. The Department
of Health has interviewed people who have had close
contact with the patients, including their family members,
schoolmates, colleagues and the health care staff
providing direct care to the patients. Site visits to the
patients' homes, workplace and schools and local
animal/poultry farms have also been made. Specimens
including blood samples, throat swabs, etc have been taken
and are being investigated in Hong Kong and by the Centres
for Diseases Control and Prevention. We are conducting
different studies to determine the mode of transmission.
We hope that the results of these investigations and
studies can give us a better understanding of this new
virus. So far, although information has revealed that the
virus is avian in nature, we have not reached any definite
conclusion on how the virus is transmitted from this
source to the human body.
(b) The second case involves a two-year old boy who
was admitted into hospital on November 7 with a high
fever. He was discharged two days later. The specimen
taken during his hospital stay by the attending doctor was
tested and later found to be positive for the H5 virus on
November 25, 1997. Investigation action by the Department
of Health followed immediately and the specimen was sent
to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention for
further testing. A press conference announcing the
suspected case and the initial investigation results was
held on November 28, 1997. The case was confirmed by the
Centres for Disease Control and Prevention as a H5N1 case
on December 13, 1997.
(c) We are maintaining close liaison with the World
Health Organisation on the development of vaccine. The
Organisation has alerted the vaccine production centres,
requesting them to monitor the H5N1 cases in Hong Kong and
make necessary preparations for the production of the
vaccine. Since this is a new virus affecting humans, a
detailed understanding of the H5N1 virus including its
antigenic structure, mode of transmission etc. must be
obtained before a decision can be reached on how to follow
up the production of the vaccine.
(d) The Department of Health has been reminding the
public that the best protection against influenza is to
maintain body immunity by balanced diet, adequate rest,
sufficient exercise and the practice of good personal
hygiene. The Department of Health is launching new
television and radio announcements to strengthen the above
message. These preventive measures also apply to
protection against H5N1 infection.
It is observed from the recent H5N1 cases that the
initial symptoms of H5N1 infection are similar to those
caused by other types of flu viruses. Members of the
public should seek the doctors' advice as early as
possible when they experience flu symptoms. To ensure
accurate diagnosis for treatment, they should not change
doctors unnecessarily. The Department has also issued
guidance notes to the doctors giving them information
about the virus and on how to handle suspected cases.
To give advice on prevention of H5N1 infection, the
Department of Health has set up telephone hotline to
handle enquiries from the public. Leaflets are
distributed through relevant departments to the poultry
and restaurant workers reminding them of the importance of
personal and environmental hygiene. The Department has
also conducted briefings for the Provisional District
Board Chairmen and the press to update them on the latest
development. We will continue to maintain and strengthen
these public education programmes.
End
11. Measures to build up a positive image for the elderly
*****************************************************
Following is a question by the Hon Lau Kong-wah and a
written reply by the Secretary for Health and Welfare,
Mrs Katherine Fok, in the Provisional Legislative Council
today (Wednesday):
Question:
According to a survey conducted by the University of
Hong Kong, elderly people are generally perceived as being
frail, infirm, stubborn, selfish and resources-consuming,
which are very negative images. In this connection, will
the Government inform this Council of:
(a) the measures in place for improving the image of
elderly people; and
(b) its plans to step up the work of instilling in
the general public, particularly the younger generation,
the concept of respecting and caring for the elderly?
Reply:
Madam President,
(a) One of the three main objectives of the
Government policy on care for the elderly is to foster a
"sense of worthiness". Its aim is to encourage the
elderly to lead an active life, have a positive outlook
and in so doing, build up a positive image for the
elderly. To achieve this, a number of measures have been
taken by the Government:
To enable the elderly to remain healthy, the
Department of Health has, since 1994, established seven
elderly health centres. The centres provide health
assessments, health talks and self help groups to help the
elderly understand the importance of disease prevention so
that they will keep themselves in good health. We will
expand the scope of service and number of health centres
in 1998-2000 in order to better meet the needs of the
elderly.
The Social Welfare Department (SWD) subsidises non-
governmental organisations to run Social Centres for the
Elderly. These centres organise activities such as
outings and interest groups to help the elderly develop
their own social circle. They also organise large scale
activities such as carnivals and quiz competitions in
conjunction with District Offices and district
organisations to provide more opportunities for the
elderly and other members of the community to get together
to foster greater mutual understanding.
In addition to organising cultural and recreational
activities, Multi-service Centres for the Elderly also
encourage the elderly to contribute to the society by
setting up teams of elderly volunteers, and in so doing
improve the image of the elderly amongst the general
public. In this respect, SWD launched a volunteer
programme of "Reaching Out to the Elderly" in November
this year to encourage the elderly to provide services to
those elderly in need. SWD is also setting up Integrated
Teams in Multi-service Centres to implement volunteers
programme in a more systematic way and to provide social
networking and outreaching services for the elderly.
The Government also provides employment services to
help the elderly seek jobs, adapt to new working
environment and, in so doing, enhance their image of
"independence" and "self-care". The Local Employment
Service of the Labour Department provides priority free
employment service to elderly job seekers aged 50 and
above. The Department Job Matching Programme offers
individual placement service. In addition, the Local
Employment Service also has instigated measures to prevent
discrimination against elderly job seekers.
The Employees Retraining Board subsidises the
Employment Service of the Hong Kong Council of Social
Service (HKCSS) to provide a wide range of retraining
programmes, placement assistance and post-training follow-
up services for the elderly.
However, enhancing the image of the elderly
ultimately is a matter for each and every member of the
society, who has to appreciate the contributions made by
the elderly towards the society and their families
throughout the years, and reciprocate with their respect
of these senior members of the family and the community.
(b) Promotion of "respect for the elderly" has to
start within the family and extended to schools and
society. The concept of "respect for the elderly" is
therefore the most essential part of SWD family life
education programme.
In addition, SWD and subvented non-government
organisations often organise or encourage young people to
participate in activities which aimed at promoting respect
for the elderly. These activities include visiting the
elderly living in residential institutions or living
alone, and organising outdoor and recreational activities
for the elderly.
As regards educating the young, the Education
Department (ED) has also done a lot of work in all primary
and secondary schools. In 1994, ED produced and
distributed to all primary and secondary schools a
curriculum kit on "Respect the Elderly" to help the
teaching of this topic. Subjects such as General Studies
at primary level and Social Studies, Religious Studies,
Home Economics, Human Biology and Liberal Studies at
secondary level all include topics relating to the issue
of respect for the elderly. Filial piety, much emphasised
in Chinese culture, is an element permeating Chinese
Language curriculum at both primary and secondary levels.
The ED issued guidelines to schools to incorporate
the topic of "respect for the elderly" in their cross-
curricular programmes of moral and civic education. From
the 1998-99 school year onwards, students will have more
exposure to the issue of "respect for the elderly" through
the new syllabus of Civic Education and the revised
syllabus for Chinese History at junior secondary level.
To promote "caring and respect for the elderly at
home and in society", SWD finances schools and district-
based young volunteer groups in the planning and
organisation of various activities for the elderly under
the "Opportunities for Youth Scheme" and the "Hong Kong
Award for Young People Programme". Such activities
include home visits and house cleaning services.
The "Senior Citizen Card Scheme" launched by SWD aims
to project the concept of "care and respect for the
elderly" among people from all walks of life and promote a
community which shows care and concern for the elderly.
At present, over 500,000 elderly people hold the Senior
Citizen Card and over 1,000 firms have joined in the
Scheme. The Government will soon conduct a review of the
Scheme to see how the objective of promoting respect for
the elderly can be better achieved.
To promote "respect for the elderly", we encourage
district organisations and youth volunteer groups to visit
the elderly under the "Social Networking for the Elderly"
Scheme.
End
12. Civil Servants' declaration systems under review
************************************************
Following is a question by the Hon Chan Choi-hi and a
written reply by the Secretary for the Civil Service,
Mr W K Lam, in the Provisional Legislative Council today
(Wednesday):
Question:
Will the Government inform this Council whether the
Civil Service Bureau will review the system for the
declaration of the personal interests and investments
(including investments in the Mainland) by senior civil
servants, following the reunification of Hong Kong with
the motherland; if so, what the details are?
Reply:
Madam President,
There are Civil Service Regulations which set out
guidelines reminding all civil servants to avoid conflict
of interest in their conduct of official duties. We also
promulgated in 1995 and 1996 systems for declaration of
private investments by civil servants in and outside Hong
Kong. The declaration systems aim to ensure at all times
that there is no conflict of interest between civil
servants' private investments and their official duties.
Given that the guidelines and the declaration systems
have been implemented for some time, we have initiated a
comprehensive review with a view to identifying areas for
improvement. We are firmly of the view that an effective
declaration system will continue to be an essential
element in upholding the integrity of the civil service of
the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. The review
covers the following:
(a) whether improvements are required to the
administrative aspects of the declaration systems;
(b) whether additional guidelines may be introduced
to better assist the management in determining which posts
to be designated for reporting of investments in and
outside Hong Kong; and
(c) whether additional measures should be launched
to enhance the understanding and alertness of civil
servants to situations where potential conflict of
interest may arise and to remind them of the appropriate
actions under such circumstances.
The review is in progress. We aim to draw up
recommendations for consultation within the Administration
and the Staff Side in early 1998.
End
13. Dispensing system under review
******************************
Following is a question by the Hon Hui Yin-fat and a
written reply by the Secretary for Health and Welfare,
Mrs Katherine Fok, in the Provisional Legislative Council
today (Wednesday):
Question:
It is reported that currently there are no resident
qualified pharmacists at clinics under the Department of
Health. Recently, anti-fever syrup mistakenly mixed with
mouthwash was given to patients by the dispensary staff at
the Cheung Sha Wan Jockey Club Clinic. After the
incident, an official remarked that mouthwash was
drinkable. In this connection, will the Government inform
this Council:
(a) why there are no resident qualified pharmacists
at clinics under the Department of Health;
(b) whether it will consider reviewing the existing
legislation and, if necessary, introducing legislative
amendments to stipulate that all dispensaries under the
Department of Health must have resident qualified
pharmacists; if not, why not;
(c) of the specific measures in place to ensure that
the prescribed medicines was dispensed correctly at such
dispensaries; and
(d) of the justifications for saying that mouthwash
is drinkable?
Reply:
President,
(a) Under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap
138) and its subsidiary legislation, medicines should be
dispensed by the Department of Health's dispensaries in
accordance with doctors' prescriptions. The dispensing
procedures should be undertaken under the supervision of
registered pharmacists or persons approved by the Director
of Health. Due to operational needs, the dispensing
duties of the Department of Health are performed by
dispensers. Dispensers have undergone three years of
formal training on dispensing. They have sufficient
knowledge and ability to perform clinic dispensing duties.
Their work is supervised by registered pharmacists of the
Department of Health.
(b) In view of the dispensing incident at the Cheung
Sha Wan Jockey Club Clinic, the Department of Health has
set up a special working group to conduct an
investigation, and to review and make recommendations on
the dispensing system and procedures of the dispensary.
We will examine and consider any recommendations on
dispensing personnel in the light of the working group's
report.
(c) The dispensers of the Department of Health's
clinics have undergone three years' training and strictly
comply with the standard dispensing procedures. A
dispenser must personally double check, or have another
dispenser cross check, the names, quantity and dosage of
the medicines and the information of the patients before
the medicines are dispensed. Dispensed medicines must be
labelled with the names of patients, the names of
medicines, dosage per unit, the method and dosage of
administration, the dates of dispensing and precautions
where appropriate. The Department of Health has from time
to time issued various instructions on dispensing
procedures to clinic dispensaries for dispensers'
reference and compliance.
(d) Mouthwash is a preparation for the treatment of
oral conditions. Although it is not intended for intake
into the body, the formulation has been drawn up to take
into account the possibility of patients' accidental
swallowing of a small amount.
End
14. Greenhouse gases emissions
**************************
Following is a question by the Hon Choy So-yuk and a
written reply by the Secretary for Planning, Environment
and Lands, Mr Bowen Leung, in the Provisional Legislative
Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
Will the Government inform this Council:
(a) of the bureau and department responsible for
Hong Kong's global climate policy and greenhouse gases
management, together with their respective duties in these
areas;
(b) whether it has pursued any policy of reduction
in the emissions of greenhouse gases, including emissions
from vehicles; if so, what the details are; and
(c) whether it has any plan to inspire public
utility companies to introduce new and clean technology or
explore new energy sources so as to reduce the emissions
of greenhouse gases during their plant or vehicular
operations?
Madam President,
(a) The Planning, Environment & Lands Bureau (PELB)
has policy responsibility for global climate change and
greenhouse gas (GHG) management and chairs an inter-
departmental group to co-ordinate government's activities
in this respect.
(b) We have pursued a wide range of GHG reduction
measures mainly through energy efficiency and conservation
approaches, including
i) Energy efficiency. The electricity generating
companies have long been encouraged to examine and adopt
efficient electricity generation technology when
introducing new generating capacity.
ii) Energy conservation. New commercial and hotel
buildings have been required to achieve statutory 'Overall
Thermal Transfer Values' since 1995. We have introduced
and expanded the Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme for
household appliances to cover household refrigerators in
1995, room air-conditioners in 1996 and washing machines
in 1997. We are preparing to introduce energy efficiency
codes of practice for building services design including
lighting, air-conditioning, electrical installations, and
lifts and escalators. We will implement the lighting and
air-conditioning codes in 1998. Also in 1998, we shall
examine the feasibility of promoting water-cooled air-
conditioning systems for non-domestic building development
in Hong Kong to take advantage of the reduced energy usage
requirements.
iii) Electricity Demand Side Management. We have
signed an Agreement with the Hong Kong Electric Co. Ltd.
on November 5, 1997 for the promotion of Electricity
Demand Side Management Programmes under which, inter alia,
electricity consumers are encouraged to use energy
efficient appliances and retrofit their existing buildings
with energy efficient equipment. We are working towards a
similar agreement with China Light and Power Co. Ltd.
iv) Sustainable and Renewable Energy. We have
installed 1700m2 of solar collection areas for water
heating in nine government premises, and a pilot
photovoltaic (PV) scheme for lighting in a park. We will
install a second pilot PV scheme to a radar station in
1998. We have contributed funding for research in
renewable energy systems at the Hong Kong University. We
have initiated a feasibility study on introducing waste-
to-energy incineration in Hong Kong. This is particularly
beneficial as it prevents the production of methane, a
potent GHG, and reduces the burning of other fuels for
electricity production. We are also taking steps to
ensure that the methane released into the atmosphere at
both old and current landfills is minimised.
v) We are working closely with the power utilities
to examine the feasibility of using electric vehicles in
Hong Kong. To provide an incentive for the use of
electric vehicles, there has been no first registration
tax for new electric vehicles since April 1, 1994. In co-
operation with major oil companies in Hong Kong, we are
printing energy efficiency driving tips for the promotion
of energy conservation in driving.
vi) We are monitoring closely technological
developments around the world in areas such as electric
vehicles, advanced emission standards on diesel vehicles
and clean fuel alternatives and will take measures to
promote their use where appropriate.
(c) The scheme of control agreements between the
Government and the power companies require that the
companies pursue energy efficiency and conservation. The
companies pay close heed to the Government's environmental
objectives and are receptive to new energy technologies
and practices. We work in close co-operation with them to
achieve progress in these areas.
We have made progress in recent years in
incorporating environmental mitigation measures into plans
for new electricity generating capacity, including the use
of low sulphur coal and flue gas desulphurization. We
supported the use of natural gas for power generation at
Black Point. These measures have helped reduce the rate
of increase of greenhouse gas emissions. We intend to
reduce further our dependence on coal as a fuel for power
generation and explore the feasibility of wider adoption
of renewable energy sources, as opportunities arise.
End
15. Services render to employees affected by retrenchment
*****************************************************
Following is a question by the Hon Choy Kan-pui and a
written reply by the Secretary for Education and Manpower,
Mr Joseph W P Wong, in the Provisional Legislative Council
today (Wednesday):
Question:
Will the Government inform this Council:
(a) whether it knows of:
(i) the respective numbers of full-time and part-
time employees currently employed in department stores in
Hong Kong;
(ii) the respective numbers of department stores
which closed down, and the resulting numbers of employees
affected in each of the past three years; and
(iii) the number of such employees who sought
employment assistance from the Labour Department over the
same period and, among these, the number of those who were
re-employed in department stores and the number of those
who changed to other trades; and
(b) of the measures in place to assist affected
employees in case of closing down of department stores?
Reply:
Madame President,
(a)(i) As at June 1997, the total number of persons
employed in department stores was around 15,700. We have
no statistics on the breakdown of this figure into full-
time and part-time staff.
(ii) We do not have statistics on the number of
department stores which have closed down, and the number
of employees affected in each of the past three years.
Nevertheless, the Outreaching Placement Service (OPS) of
the Labour Department which was established in June 1995,
with the objective of providing on-the-spot assistance to
workers affected by major retrenchments has since reached
out to 3,297 employees affected by the closure of 5
department stores.
(iii) Among these 3,297 affected employees, 1,057
of them sought employment assistance with the Local
Employment Service of the Labour Department. Most of
these employees (1,037) were affected by the closedown of
a major department store in late November. The Labour
Department successfully secured 113 job offers for them,
90 workers accepted their offer and the remaining 23
workers found work on their own. The total number of
placements in respect of these registrants is expected to
be higher when all the referral results are finalised. Of
the 90 placements achieved by the department, 47 employees
(52%) were re-employed in the retail industry and 60(67%)
in the same occupations they were previously engaged in.
(b) The Labour Department has in place the following
services to help employees affected by the closure of
companies, including department stores.
(i) Conciliation Service
--------------------------
The Labour Department provides prompt advice to both
the affected employees and their employer on their
respective rights and obligations under the Employment
Ordinance. Conciliation service will also be rendered to
assist both parties to resolve any dispute over statutory
and contractual compensation. If winding-up or bankruptcy
proceedings against the employer are necessary, the
employees will be referred to the Legal Aid Department for
legal assistance in pursuing their claims. They will also
be assisted to apply for ex-gratia payments from the
Protection of Wages on Insolvency Fund for any wages,
wages in lieu of notice or severance payment owed to them
by their insolvent employer.
(ii) Employment Service
------------------------
The Outreaching Placement Service will reach out to
affected workers and provide them with on-the-spot
employment service. In case of particularly large-scale
retrenchments, the Department will also set up telephone
hotlines, special service centres at community halls for
answering queries and conduct briefings for affected
employees on the spot. Special counters will also be
established at the nine Local Employment Service (LES)
offices to render prompt service to these workers. At the
same time, the department will also approach employers and
employers' associations to canvass sufficient and suitable
vacancies for the displaced workers. The Job Matching
Programme provides proactive placement services for the
unemployed. Thirdly, a network of nine LES job centres
round the territory provides free employment services for
job seekers. These services are available to displaced
workers from all trades, including the department stores.
(iii) Retraining
----------------
Arrangements are also made for representatives of the
Employees' Retraining Board to introduce their services
and retraining courses for the employees affected.
End
16. Participation in international environmental conferences
********************************************************
Following is a question by the Hon Choy So-yuk and a
written reply by the Secretary for Planning, Environment
and Lands, Mr Bowen Leung, in the Provisional Legislative
Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
With reference to the recent United Nations
environmental conference in Kyoto, Japan, will the
Government inform this Council:
(a) given that China will be one of the signatories
to any agreement reached on the target for reduction in
emissions of greenhouse gases, whether Hong Kong is
obliged to adopt the target; if not, the reasons for
adopting a different target; and
(b) whether consideration will be given to sending
delegations to international environmental conferences?
Reply:
Madam President,
(a) China ratified the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) as a "developing
country" party, which means it is not bound to reduce its
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. We will not know which
Parties to the UNFCCC have ratified the new Protocol
agreed in Kyoto until the ratification process starts in
March 1998. As the UNFCCC has not been applied to Hong
Kong, the Convention's targets are also not applicable to
Hong Kong. Nonetheless, as a matter of policy we have
aimed at the UNFCCC's targets and Hong Kong is likely to
be one of the few economies that will meet them.
The agreement on the new Protocol reached in Kyoto,
Japan relates to GHG emission targets for the post-2000
period. The developing countries continue to have no
obligations to reduce their GHG emissions. The developed
countries do not have one single target, as in the UNFCCC.
Each developed country has its own individual target.
These range from - 8 per cent to +10 per cent based on
their 1990 emission levels.
Hong Kong will carefully study the new Protocol,
which is unlikely to be ratified for some time, before we
decide the way forward.
(b) The Administration has in the past and will in
future send delegations to international environmental
conferences. Participation is decided on a case-by-case
basis, bearing in mind factors such as the likely
practical benefits, the resources implications and the
rules on participation laid down by conference organisers.
End
17. Plan to increase paramedic ambulances
*************************************
Following is a question by the Hon Lee Kai-ming and a
written reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Peter Lai,
in the Provisional Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
It is reported that the Government plans to install
auxiliary medical equipment in more ambulances. In this
connection will the Government inform this Council:
(a) of the present number of ambulances installed
with auxiliary medical equipment, and their distribution
in various districts of Hong Kong;
(b) of the number of additional ambulances to be
installed with such equipment under this plan, and their
distribution;
(c) whether ambulancemen capable of operating the
new equipment will be assigned to such ambulances; and
(d) whether it has studied the further increase in
the number of such ambulances; if not, why not?
Reply:
Madam President,
(a) The Fire Services Department (FSD) has 33
paramedic ambulances which provide paramedic ambulance
service. These paramedic ambulances are stationed at 33
different ambulance depots/stations and fire stations in
the territory - seven in Hong Kong, 12 in Kowloon and 14
in the New Territories. Their breakdown by district is at
the Annex.
(b) FSD is planning to increase the number of
paramedic ambulances from 33 to 66. The additional
ambulances will be deployed to ambulance depots/fire
stations like Mong Kok and Tsuen Wan where the demand for
paramedic ambulance service is large, and to new ambulance
depots like Tung Chung and Sham Tseng to provide a better
coverage of paramedic ambulance service over the
territory.
(c) Ambulancemen trained to operate the paramedic
ambulance equipment will be deployed to man paramedic
ambulances.
(d) FSD completed a review on paramedic ambulance
service earlier this year. Based on the projected demand,
FSD is planning to increase the number of paramedic
ambulances from 33 to 66. FSD will closely monitor the
demand for paramedic ambulance service, and review the
provision of its paramedic ambulance service as necessary.
Annex
The distribution of paramedic ambulances by districts
Region Division Ambulance Depot/Station/
Fire Station
Hong Kong Hong Kong Central
East Chai Wan
Morrison Hill
Sai Wan Ho
Hong Kong Pokfulam
West Mount Davis
Aberdeen
Total 7
Kowloon Kowloon Ngau Tau Kok
East Tseung Kwan O
Wong Tai Sin
Lam Tin
Shun Lee
Kowloon Cheung Sha Wan
West Pat Tin
Mong Kok
Ma Tau Chung
Yaumati
Tsim Tung
Ho Man Tin
Total 12
New Territories (NT) NT Tin Sum
East Shatin
Ma On Shan
Tai Po
Fanling
Sai Kung
Sheung Shui
NT Tsuen Wan
South Lei Muk Shu
Tsing Yi
NT Castle Peak Bay
West Tuen Mun
Yuen Long
Tin Shui Wai
Total 14
End
18. Blasting accident in Sau Mau Ping
*********************************
Following is a question by the Hon Tam Yiu-chung and
a written reply by the Secretary for Works, Mr Kwong Hon-
sang, in the Provisional Legislative Council today
(Wednesday):
Question:
Recently, an accident occurred at a construction site
in Sau Mau Ping during a blasting operation, resulting in
over a thousand tons of rocks tumbling down and seriously
jeopardising the safety of the residents nearby. In this
connection, will the Government inform this Council
whether it will further regulate the blasting operations
in the vicinity of residential areas, in order to prevent
accidents?
Reply:
President,
Government has stringent procedures in place to
control rock blasting near and on slopes, these are
enforced by the Mines & Quarries (M&Q) Division of the
Civil Engineering Department (CED) under the Dangerous
Goods Ordinance and Regulations, Chapter 295. A blasting
assessment report, prepared by a professional engineer
qualified and experienced in blasting design and the
effects of blasting, assessing the feasibility of using
blasting for rock excavation is required to accompany the
application to M&Q Division for a blasting licence. The
application is normally made by the Contractor for the
site formation works. In the course of processing the
application, the M&Q Division will visit the site and
stipulate the pre-licensing requirements which include the
method of evacuation of people from the affected area,
installation of protective measures and availability of
equipment to clear debris in case an incident occurs.
Before the issue of the licence, the Contractor must
appoint a qualified shotfirer in possession of a valid
Mine Blasting Certificate issued by the Commissioner of
Mines (who is also the Director of Civil Engineering)
under the provisions of the Mines (Safety) Regulations,
Chapter 285.
About one to two days before the scheduled blasting,
the Contractor will inform the M & Q Division the amount
of explosives to be used and the area of blasting. On the
day of blasting, the explosives will be delivered from the
Government explosives depot to the construction site by
the M & Q Division. Immediately before the blasting,
roads in the affected area will be closed to traffic and
the area will be evacuated. Five minutes prior to
blasting, warning gongs will be beaten continuously. The
blasting operation will be inspected regularly by M & Q
Division to check compliance with prescribed licensing
conditions.
The incident the Honourable Tam Yiu-chung referred to
occurred on December 4, 1997 at a Housing Department site
at Sau Mau Ping Road. Site formation works have been
proceeding at the site for the past two years under the
Housing Department's contract. Safety measures governing
blasting operations in the contract include the
designation of a non-blasting zone adjacent to public
areas, erection of steel safety fence along the roadside,
closure of the Sau Mau Ping Road during blasting,
monitoring of ground vibration at strategic locations to
ensure that they do not exceed the specified limits, use
of blasting screens to prevent flyrock and supervision by
a blasting control engineer. It should be noted that due
to the redevelopment of the area, the housing blocks in
the vicinity have been demolished, so no-one is residing
near that blasting site.
The CED is investigating the cause of the incident.
The Housing Department's consulting engineer supervising
the project and the site formation contractor have been
asked to provide reports on the incident to assist in the
investigation. Blasting near the slope along Sau Mau Ping
Road will not be allowed to resume until the M&Q Division
is satisfied that it is safe to do so. If the
investigation reveals that there is room for improvement
to the established procedure of blasting control, the
procedure will be reviewed and amended accordingly.
End
19. Professional qualifications of dispensary staff
***********************************************
Following is a question by Dr the Hon Ho Chung-tai
and a written reply by the Secretary for Health and
Welfare, Mrs Katherine Fok, in the Provisional Legislative
Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
In view of the recent mix-up of mouthwash in anti-
fever syrup by dispensary staff of the Cheung Sha Wan
Jockey Club Clinic, will the Government inform this
Council of the measures in place to monitor the
professional qualifications of dispensary staff working in
the clinics of private medical practitioners or private
drug stores and the dispensing procedures thereof?
Reply:
Under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap 138)
and its subsidiary legislation, private pharmacies or
dispensaries authorized by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board
can dispense prescriptions for medicines. All pharmacies
or dispensaries are required to employ registered
pharmacists who will be responsible for supervising the
dispensing procedures at the premises. Pharmacies or
dispensaries are required to keep records of the dates of
dispensing medicines, the ingredients of medicines and the
quantity dispensed, the names and addresses of the
purchasers, the names of practitioners giving the
prescriptions and the dates on which the prescriptions are
given. Pharmacies or dispensaries are also required to
label the medicines with the names and addresses of the
pharmacies or dispensaries. The Department of Health will
inspect these premises regularly to ensure that the
relevant requirements are complied with. Any person
breaching these requirements is liable to a maximum fine
of $100,000 and imprisonment for two years. Meanwhile,
according to the registered pharmacists' code of practice,
dispensed medicines must be labelled with the names of
patients, the names of medicines, dosage per unit, the
method and dosage of administration, the dates of
dispensing, and precautions where appropriate. Any
registered pharmacist breaching the code of practice will
be subject to the disciplinary action of the Pharmacy and
Poisons Board.
As regards private doctors' clinics, medicines are
supplied by the doctors. Under the Pharmacy and Poisons
Ordinance, doctors are required to keep records of the
dates of supplying medicines, the names and addresses of
patients, the ingredients of medicines and the quantity,
dosage and duration of supply. Any person breaching these
requirements is liable to a maximum fine of $100,000 and
imprisonment for two years. According to the registered
doctors' professional code and conduct, the medicines
doctors supply must be clearly labelled with the names of
patients, the names of medicines, dosage per unit, the
method and dosage of administration, the dates of supply
and precautions where appropriate. Any registered doctor
breaching the code will be subject to the disciplinary
action of the Hong Kong Medical Council.
End
20. Management fees of Home Ownership Scheme
****************************************
Following is a question by Dr the Hon Tang Siu-tong
and a written reply by the Secretary for Housing,
Mr Dominic Wong, in the Provisional Legislative Council
today (Wednesday):
Question:
Will the Government inform this Council whether it
knows:
(a) if the present criteria for determining the
management fees of Home Ownership Scheme (HOS) estates
vary from estate to estate; if so, of the rationale for
setting different criteria; and
(b) if the Housing Authority will consider adopting
uniform criteria and when it will implement such criteria
for determining the management fees of HOS estates?
Reply:
Madam President,
Management fees for flats vary from estate to estate
under the Home Ownership Scheme (HOS), and are charged on
a cost basis to cover total operating expenses. In
accordance with the Building Management Ordinance (Chapter
344)* enacted in 1993, the fee for each flat is determined
by apportioning the total operating expenses in proportion
to the number of undivided shares held by the owner
concerned. The Housing Authority cannot adopt uniform
fees for all estates.
In the case of 38 HOS estates where management fees
have long been fixed by the Housing Authority as manager
under the Deeds of Mutual Covenant before the enactment of
the Building Management Ordinance, flat owners pay a
uniform rate of management fees, regardless of the size of
flats or the number of undivided shares. This uniform
rate will continue to be charged by the Housing Authority
unless a majority of owners in individual estates consent
to changing the mode of determining management fees.
- - - - -
Remarks:
* Section 22 of the Building Management Ordinance
provides that the amount to be contributed by an owner
should be fixed by the Management Committee in accordance
with the Deeds of Mutual Covenant (DMC), or if there is no
DMC or if it is silent, the amount to be contributed by an
owner shall be in accordance with the undivided shares
held by the respective owner.
End
21. Traffic accidents involving green minibuses
*******************************************
Following is a question by the Hon Ngan Kam-chuen and
a written reply by the Secretary for Transport,
Mr Nicholas Ng, in the Provisional Legislative Council
today (Wednesday):
Question:
It is learnt that some green minibuses (GMB) drivers
always carry excess passengers during the morning rush
hours. In this connection, will the Government inform
this Council of:
(a) the total number of GMB drivers prosecuted for
carrying excess passengers in the past three years; the
district most seriously plagued by this problem; the
average penalty imposed by the court on the convicted
drivers;
(b) the number of traffic accidents caused by GMBs
carrying excess passengers in the past three years,
together with the number of casualties caused;
(c) the protection given to passengers in case of
traffic accidents caused by GMBs carrying excess
passengers; and
(d) the measures adopted by relevant government
departments for preventing GMBs from carrying excess
passengers?
Reply:
Madam President,
In the past three years, a total of 267 Green Minibus
(GMB) drivers were prosecuted for carrying excess
passengers. Fines imposed by the courts for this offence
ranged from $200 to $800. A breakdown of the prosecution
figures by region is at Annex A.
As regards traffic accidents, there were about 1,200
accidents involving Public Light Buses (PLBs) in the past
three years. The Police do not have any breakdown of the
number of accidents involving GMBs carrying excess
passengers. In fact, it would be very difficult, if not
impossible, to single out carriage of excess passengers as
the cause of accidents.
In case of traffic accidents involving personal
injuries, GMB passengers and other victims are covered by
third party insurance. In addition, passengers who have
sustained injuries may apply to the Social Welfare
Department for assistance under the Traffic Accident
Victims Assistance Scheme.
If complaints about overloading are received, the
Police will be asked to step up enforcement action. The
Transport Department will also interview the operators
concerned and urge them to rectify the situation, with
appropriate warnings given. Apart from punitive action,
the Transport Department will examine whether there is a
need to increase the number of vehicles deployed on the
route so as to meet passenger demand during peak periods.
Annex A
Number of GMB drivers prosecuted for carrying excess
passengers
----------------------------------------------------
1995 1996 1997
(Jan - Nov)
Hong Kong Island 42 19 4
Kowloon East 11 2 7
Kowloon West 15 8 5
New Territories South 29 33 15
New Territories North 32 21 24
Total 129 83 55
End
22. Fire safety of old buildings
****************************
Following is a question by the Hon Kennedy Wong Ying-
ho and a written reply by the Secretary for Security,
Mr Peter Lai, in the Provisional Legislative Council today
(Wednesday):
Question:
As the fire-fighting facilities in some older
buildings in the territory are below the fire safety
standard, in the present dry season of high risk of fire,
will the Government inform this Council:
(a) of the immediate measures in place to lower the
fire hazards of these buildings; and
(b) whether consideration has been given to
improving, by legislative means, the fire-fighting
facilities in these buildings, such as requiring a greater
number of fire extinguishers and the provision of fire-
proof blankets?
Reply:
Madam President,
(a) Older buildings in the territory were
constructed according to the fire safety standards at the
time when they were built. However, it does not mean that
those buildings are of a high risk of fire, if their fire
safety installation and equipment are properly maintained,
and that the owners and occupiers take adequate fire
safety precautions and observe fire safety.
To ensure that proper fire safety measures are taken,
the Fire Services Department (FSD) has stepped up
inspections during the dry season. In October and
November 1997, FSD conducted 2,540 inspections to
commercial buildings, 1,513 to residential buildings and
524 to industrial buildings. Fire Hazard Abatement
Notices will be issued to order the removal of any fire
hazards identified.
The Buildings Department (BD) has conducted 598
inspections to pre-1973 old commercial buildings since May
1997, and has issued 5,823 advisory letters to the owners
to encourage them to improve the fire safety conditions of
their buildings.
The Labour Department (LD) has been launching a fire
safety inspection campaign from October 16, 1997 to
December 31, 1997. This is an intensive law enforcement
exercise concentrating on work places where accidents are
prone to happen. Immediate prosecutions will be initiated
by the factory inspectors of the LD when serious potential
fire risks are detected. LD also conducted joint
inspections with FSD to 36 pre-1973 industrial buildings
in early 1997 and 500 advisory letters were sent.
To raise the fire safety awareness of the public
during the dry season, FSD launched the 1997/98 fire
prevention campaign with the theme "Fire Safety in
Commercial and Industrial Buildings" in November 1997. A
series of seminars and activities will be held for the
general public to convey fire safety knowledge and message
to them. The Home Affairs Department has frequent
contacts with building management bodies, owners'
corporations and mutual aid committees to promote fire
safety.
The FSD complaint hotline is frequently publicised
for the public to report fire hazards to the department.
The LD also organises promotional activities on fire
safety at work and publishes booklets and leaflets on fire
safety at workplaces frequently.
(b) The Government will introduce legislation to
improve the fire safety standard of old commercial
buildings. We are planning to extend the scope of the Fire
Safety (Commercial Premises) Ordinance to require the
installation of additional fire service installations and
equipment (including automatic sprinkler system, fire
hydrant/hosereel system and emergency lighting), and
improvements to building structure in respect of means of
escape, means of access and fire resisting construction in
old commercial buildings. Drafting of the legislation is
in progress and we aim to introduce the bill into the
Provisional Legislative Council in early 1998.
End
