Transcript of SCMA's remarks at media session

December 12, 2016, 12:59 am

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Following is the transcript of remarks made by the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Raymond Tam, at a media session at noon today (December 12) on the remuneration package for Politically Appointed Officials (PAOs) serving in fifth-term Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government:

Reporter: Mr Tam, could you briefly explain the committee's suggestions? What are the rationales behind that?

Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs: Put it simply, the Independent Commission (Independent Commission on Remuneration for Members of the Executive Council and the Legislature, and Officials under the Political Appointment System of the HKSAR) has put forward a report with certain recommendations, and those recommendations have been endorsed by the Executive Council. We are submitting the relevant proposals to the Legislative Council for discussion at the Constitutional Affairs Panel next Monday, with a view to submitting the formal proposals to the Finance Committee in January next year.

The main proposals are on two areas. There should be an adjustment mechanism (which is in line with) the movement of the Consumer Price Index (C). This is the first recommendation. At the same time, the Independent Commission considers that the purchasing power (of a Director of Bureau (DoB)'s cash remuneration) has been greatly eroded since 2002 because the salary levels of Politically Appointed Officials have not been adjusted for the last 14 years. Therefore, the Independent Commission feels it necessary to at least adjust upwards the salary levels in accordance with the aggregate movement of CPI(C) for the past four or five years.

At the same time, although it is not the main review area for the Independent Commission, the Commission also puts forward a recommendation that for future appointments of Political Assistants, there should not be a unified salary level but to have certain flexibility to allow PAOs to appoint Political Assistants with different salary levels in accordance with the job requirements as well as their personal experience and background, with the upper limit being set at the minimum entry level of Political Assistant at the moment. The other benefits will not be adjusted in accordance with the Commission's report.

Reporter: It was said John Tsang has resigned ....

Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs: As I mentioned yesterday, I am not in a position to comment on any aspiring candidate for two reasons. First of all, my guesstimate is that there might be more aspiring candidates to come forward to publicly announce their intention. So, it won't be fair for me to comment on any individual candidates at this stage. But more importantly, I am responsible for holding the CE (Chief Executive) Election in March next year. So, it would not be fair for me, having this capacity and responsibility, to comment on individuals.

Reporter: But as a colleague, what do you think of him as a colleague?

Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs: As a Principal Official, I actually don't have any comment to offer as a colleague.

Reporter: How you justify, how do you explain this to the public ...?

Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs: I think the Independent Commission's proposal is reasonable and is quite self-restrained, simply because the very principal recommendation is to include an adjustment mechanism indexing on the movement of the Consumer Price Index (C) which is also used by the Legislative Councillors. Also, this would be beneficial for the healthy development of the Political Appointment System because over the next 10 years, or 10 to 15 years, the salary level of PAOs, if remained the same, is tantamount to further erosion of their purchasing power. Comparing with senior civil servants, comparing with senior management of public organisations, and not to mention private organisations, the competitive edge of the total package for joining the Government would be getting lower and lower. To attract the right kind of talents to join the Government would be increasingly difficult if this level would remain the same for the next, say, 10 or 20 years. It is time to include an adjustment mechanism that is objective, transparent and moderate. I think this is a fair recommendation. Also. the Independent Commission feels it necessary to suggest the Government to seek approval from the Finance Committee to restore the purchasing power (of a DoB's cash remuneration) for the past four years. The number suggested, i.e. 12.4 per cent, is actually the aggregate number of CPI(C) movement. On a yearly average, this is only 2 to 3 per cent. It is very moderate. I hope both the Legislative Council as well as the general public would agree that this is a very moderate and reasonable proposal and it would get LegCo's endorsement. I hope that once this is endorsed, it would help attract the various kinds of political talents to join the Government.

I would end with a personal note. It is increasingly difficult to get people to join the Government and to become a Principal Official given the prevailing political circumstances. I think it is only fair to reward those aspiring people that have the heart to serve the community. That is a token of recognition to their contribution to the society. Thank you very much.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

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Online pre-arrival registration for nationals of India to visit Hong Kong

December 12, 2016, 1:00 am

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     The Immigration Department announced today (December 12) that nationals of India will be required to successfully complete online pre-arrival registration before visiting Hong Kong visa-free from January 23, 2017.

     At present, Indian nationals may visit Hong Kong visa-free for a stay of up to 14 days. Effective from January 23, 2017, Indian nationals must apply for and successfully complete online pre-arrival registration before they can continue to enjoy the current 14-day visa-free visit or enter Hong Kong during transit (except in direct transit by air and not leaving the airport transit area), unless they belong to one of the categories of persons who may continue to come to Hong Kong visa-free without pre-arrival registration. Persons exempted from the requirement of pre-arrival registration include, among others, holders of an Indian diplomatic or official passport or a Hong Kong Travel Pass and Indian nationals who have successfully enrolled for the e-Channel service for frequent visitors.

     To apply for pre-arrival registration, an Indian national shall access the designated Pre-arrival Registration for Indian Nationals platform at the GovHK website (www.gov.hk/en/apps/immdindianparreg.htm). The platform will be open for registration starting from December 19, 2016. Pre-arrival registration is free of charge. After the required information has been received, the computer system will process the registration and display the registration result instantly. Successful registrants are required to print on their own a Notification Slip for Pre-arrival Registration for Indian Nationals generated by the system on a sheet of blank A4 white paper for the purposes of boarding a conveyance bound for Hong Kong and immigration clearance upon arrival.

     Each pre-arrival registration for an Indian national will be valid for six months or until the expiry date of the Indian passport linked to it, whichever is earlier. Provided that normal immigration requirements are met, a registrant may, during the validity of the pre-arrival registration, use a valid notification slip together with the specific and valid Indian passport linked to the successful pre-arrival registration to make multiple visits to Hong Kong visa-free. On each visit, a registrant may stay in Hong Kong for up to 14 days.

     In case pre-arrival registration is unsuccessful, Indian nationals shall apply to the Immigration Department directly for an entry visa if they intend to visit Hong Kong.

     "Pre-arrival registration for Indian nationals is implemented with a view to ensuring a proper balance between facilitation of genuine visitors from India and the need to safeguard the integrity of immigration control. We believe that the new arrangement will not impede genuine visitors from India from visiting Hong Kong," an Immigration Department spokesman said.

     Details of Pre-arrival Registration for Indian Nationals can be found at the Immigration Department's website
(www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/visas/pre-arrival_registration_for_indian_nationals.html).

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Illegal worker jailed

December 12, 2016, 1:25 am

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     A Vietnamese illegal worker holding a recognisance form was jailed at Fanling Magistrates' Courts on December 10.

     During operation "Twilight" conducted on December 8, Immigration Department (ImmD) investigators raided a restaurant in Causeway Bay and arrested a Vietnamese female, aged 38. When intercepted, she was found washing dishes in the restaurant. Upon identity checking, she produced for inspection a recognisance form issued by the ImmD, which prohibits her from taking employment. Further investigation revealed that she was a non-refoulement claimant. She was also suspected of using and being in possession of a suspected forged Hong Kong identity card. An employer suspected of employing the illegal worker was also arrested and the investigation is ongoing.

     The illegal worker was charged at Fanling Magistrates' Courts on December 10 with taking employment after landing in Hong Kong unlawfully and remaining in Hong Kong without the authority of the Director of Immigration, or while being a person in respect of whom a removal order or deportation order was in force. She was also charged with using a forged Hong Kong identity card. She pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to 15 months' imprisonment for each charge. All charges are to run concurrently.

     The ImmD spokesman warned that, as stipulated in section 38AA of the Immigration Ordinance, illegal immigrants or people who are the subject of a removal order or a deportation order are prohibited from taking any employment, whether paid or unpaid, or establishing or joining in any business. Offenders are liable upon conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to three years' imprisonment. The Court of Appeal has issued a guideline ruling that a sentence of 15 months' imprisonment should be applied in such cases.

     The spokesman also warned that it is an offence to use or possess a forged Hong Kong identity card. Offenders are liable to prosecution and a maximum penalty of a $100,000 fine and up to 10 years' imprisonment.

     The spokesman reiterated that it is a serious offence to employ people who are not lawfully employable. The maximum penalty is imprisonment for three years and a fine of $350,000. The High Court has laid down sentencing guidelines that the employer of an illegal worker should be given an immediate custodial sentence. According to the court sentencing, employers must take all practicable steps to determine whether a person is lawfully employable prior to employment. Apart from inspecting a prospective employee's identity card, the employer has the explicit duty to make enquiries regarding the person and ensure that the answers would not cast any reasonable doubt concerning the lawful employability of the person. The court will not accept failure to do so as a defence in proceedings. It is also an offence if an employer fails to inspect the job seeker's valid travel document if the job seeker does not have a Hong Kong permanent identity card. The maximum penalty for failing to inspect such a document is imprisonment for one year and a fine of $150,000.

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Update on cases of Legionnaires' disease

December 12, 2016, 1:45 am

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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (December 12) reported the latest number of cases of Legionnaires' disease (LD) in Hong Kong, and stressed the importance of using and maintaining properly designed man-made water systems, and that susceptible groups should strictly observe relevant precautions.

From December 4 to 10, five community-acquired LD cases were reported. They are:

A female patient, aged 55 with underlying illness, who lives in Foon Yan House, Tung Yan Court, Sai Wan Ho;
A male patient, aged 70 with underlying illness, who lives in Ying On House, Choi Ying Estate, Kwun Tong;
A male patient, aged 53 with underlying illness, who lives in On Foo Building, Lo Tak Court, Tsuen Wan;
A male patient, aged 55, who lives in Block 2, Nan Fung Plaza, Tseung Kwan O; and
A female patient, aged 76 with underlying illness, who lives in Block C, Metropole Building, King's Road, North Point.

     "Epidemiological investigations are ongoing to identify potential sources of infection, high-risk exposure and clusters, if any," a spokesman for the CHP said.

     As of December 10, a total of 69 LD cases, including 68 community-acquired cases and one institutional death case, had been reported in 2016. In 2015 and 2014, there were 66 and 41 cases respectively.

     Legionellae are found in various environmental settings and grow well in warm water (20 to 45 degrees Celsius). They can be found in aqueous environments such as water tanks, hot and cold water systems, cooling towers, whirlpools and spas, water fountains and home apparatus that support breathing. People may get infected when they breathe in contaminated droplets (aerosols) and mist generated by artificial water systems. They may also get the infection when handling garden soil, compost and potting mixes.

     Persons with weakened immunity should strictly observe the health advice below:

Use sterile or boiled water for drinking, tooth brushing and mouth rinsing;
Avoid using humidifiers, or other mist- or aerosol-generating devices. A shower may also generate small aerosols; and
If using humidifiers, or other mist- or aerosol-generating devices, fill the water tank with only sterile or cooled freshly boiled water, and not water directly from the tap. In addition, clean and maintain humidifiers/devices regularly according to manufacturers' instructions. Never leave stagnant water in a humidifier/device. Empty the water tank, wipe all surfaces dry, and change the water daily.

The public, including susceptible groups, should take heed of the general precautions against LD below:

Observe personal hygiene;
Do not smoke and avoid alcohol;
Remove strainers in water taps and shower heads quarterly for cleaning;
If a fresh water plumbing system is properly maintained, it is not necessary to install domestic water filters. Use of water filters is not encouraged as clogging occurs easily, which can promote growth of micro-organisms. In case water filters are used, the pore size should be 0.2 micrometres and they need to be changed periodically;
Drain and clean water tanks of buildings at least quarterly;
Drain or purge for at least one minute the infrequently used water outlets (e.g. water taps, shower heads and hot water outlets) and stagnant points of the pipework weekly or before use;
Seek and follow medical advice regarding the use and maintenance of home respiratory devices and use only sterile (not distilled or tap) water to clean and fill the reservoir. Clean and maintain the device regularly according to manufacturer's instructions. After cleaning/disinfection, rinse the device with sterile water, cooled freshly boiled water or water filtered with 0.2-micrometre filters. Never leave stagnant water in the device. Empty the water tank, keep all surfaces dry, and change the water daily; and
When handling garden soil, compost and potting mixes:

Water gardens and compost gently using low pressure;
Open composted potting mixes slowly and make sure the opening is directed away from the face;
Wet the soil to reduce dust when potting plants; and
Avoid working in poorly ventilated places such as enclosed greenhouses.

More information is available on these pages: the CHP's LD page, the Code of Practice for Prevention of LD of the Prevention of LD Committee, the Housekeeping Guidelines for Cold and Hot Water Systems for Building Management, and the CHP's risk-based strategy for prevention and control of LD.

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SCS visits Information Services Department (with photos)

December 12, 2016, 2:22 am

≫ Next: Mainland authorities accept new round of applications from Mainland "overage children" of Hong Kong residents for One Way Permits from January 16, 2017

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    The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Clement Cheung, visited the Information Services Department (ISD) today (December 12) to learn more about the department's work and to meet its staff.

     Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Thomas Chow, Mr Cheung met with the Director of Information Services, Mr Joe Wong, and the directorate staff. He was briefed on the ISD's role as the Hong Kong Government's communications arm - its public relations and advertising agency, publisher and news organisation as well as its media adviser and research unit.

     Mr Cheung visited the News Sub-division, which is responsible for issuing all government press releases, photographs and video clips for media and public access, and providing a 24-hour press enquiry service. He also toured the Digital Media Sub-division to better understand how the department disseminates government information through the news.gov.hk website and social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

    At the Audio-visual Section of the Creative Sub-division, Mr Cheung was briefed on the work of the section including the production of news and feature videos to promote government policies and activities.

     Mr Cheung was also briefed on the department's work in media services, public relations and promotions locally and outside Hong Kong during his chat with staff from the Creative Sub-division, Local Promotions Sub-division, International Promotions Sub-division, Brand Hong Kong Management Unit and Overseas Public Relations Sub-division.

     Before concluding his visit, Mr Cheung met staff representatives of various grades at a tea gathering to exchange views on issues of concern. He praised colleagues for their dedication and efforts, and encouraged them to continue to provide prompt and efficient services to the media and the public.

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Mainland authorities accept new round of applications from Mainland "overage children" of Hong Kong residents for One Way Permits from January 16, 2017

December 12, 2016, 2:26 am

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Starting from January 16, 2017, the Mainland authorities will accept a new round of applications for One Way Permits (OWPs) from Hong Kong residents' Mainland "overage children" whose natural fathers or mothers obtained their first Hong Kong identity cards on or before December 31, 1996, to come to Hong Kong for reunion with their natural parents, a spokesperson for the Security Bureau said today (December 12).

     The Ministry of Public Security made the above announcement today and has announced the details of the application procedure, including the required supporting documents. Eligible overage children may submit applications to the Exit and Entry Administration Offices of the Public Security Bureau of their household registration according to the announced schedule.

     According to the Mainland authorities, the application and approval arrangement for overage children to reside in Hong Kong has been implemented in a smooth manner on the Mainland since April 1, 2011. Successful applicants are continuously approved to join their natural parents in Hong Kong.

     The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will continue to maintain close liaison with the Mainland authorities on the application progress and entry arrangement of overage children. According to the Mainland authorities, they will, depending on progress, accept applications from other eligible overage children in phases for them to join their natural parents in Hong Kong as early as possible.

     In response to the request of Hong Kong residents and their Mainland overage children for reunion in Hong Kong, the Central Government decided that, starting from April 1, 2011, individuals may apply for OWPs to come to Hong Kong if they were below the age of 14 when their natural fathers or mothers, on or before November 1, 2001, obtained their first Hong Kong identity cards, as long as their natural fathers or mothers still resided in Hong Kong on April 1, 2011.

     The phased submission of applications by overage children to the Mainland authorities will be scheduled chronologically according to the order in which their natural fathers or mothers obtained their first Hong Kong identity cards. The Mainland authorities are currently accepting applications from Mainland residents whose natural fathers or mothers obtained their first Hong Kong identity cards before 1992. There is no deadline for the submission of applications.

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Appeal for information on missing man in Sheung Shui (with photo)

December 12, 2016, 2:32 am

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     Police today (December 12) appealed to the public for information on a man who went missing in Sheung Shui.

     Tsang Fuk-ming, aged 45, went missing after he left his residence on Choi Po Court on December 8 morning. His family made a report to Police on the next day (December 9).

     He is about 1.7 metres tall, 63 kilograms in weight and of medium build. He has a square face with yellow complexion and short straight black hair. He was last seen wearing a red top, black jacket and blue jeans, carrying a dark-colour rucksack and wearing glasses with black frame.

     Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Person Unit of New Territories North on 3661 3115 or 6273 5787 or email to rmpu-ntn-1@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

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LegCo to debate motion under Rule 49B(1A) of the Rules of Procedure

December 12, 2016, 2:45 am

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The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

     The Legislative Council (LegCo) will hold a meeting on Wednesday (December 14) at 11am in the Chamber of the LegCo Complex. During the meeting, Members will debate a motion under Rule 49B(1A) of the Rules of Procedure.

     The motion, moved by Mr Paul Tse, states: "That this Council, in accordance with Article 79(7) of the Basic Law, censures Dr Hon Cheng Chung-tai for misbehaviour (details as particularised in the Schedule to this motion)."

     Mr Ip Kin-yuen will move a motion on prerequisites for the next Secretary for Education. The motion states: "That, as the Secretary for Education Mr Eddie Ng, in his term of office, has performed very poorly, neglected his duties, kept paying overseas visits and failed to actively handle issues of greatest concern to the education sector and people in the community, the implementation of the education policies lacks progress; according to the survey conducted between December 2015 and November 2016 by the Public Opinion Programme of the University of Hong Kong, the Secretary for Education persistently received a net popularity of over -40 percentage points, with almost 60 per cent of the respondents persistently voted for his dismissal; as indicated by the findings of another survey, Survey on the Secretary for Education and Educational Issues in Hong Kong, that the Public Opinion Programme of the University of Hong Kong was commissioned to conduct between May 24 and June 8, 2016, Mr Eddie NG's overall performance in administering education policies was given mean scores of 3.7 and 2.8 out of a full score of 10 by members of the public and teachers respectively; in this connection, with a view to restoring the confidence of the education sector and the public in the implementation of education policies, this Council urges that when appointing the Secretary for Education, the next Chief Executive must prudently select a person with integrity and strong commitment, who does not evade responsibilities, is willing to heed views, has a sense of mission for education, is conversant with education policies, and is willing to seriously examine the education system, so that education can return to the right track."

     Mr Cheung Kwok-kwan, Mr Charles Peter Mok and Mr Nathan Law will move separate amendments to Mr Ip Kin-yuen's motion.

     Dr Lau Siu-lai will move a motion on formulating a territory-wide long-term bazaar policy. The motion states: "That bazaars are part of the local culture, and they are also providing grass-roots people with employment opportunities and shopping venues for quality goods at low prices; but over the years, under the impact of managerialism mindset and 'developer hegemony', the Government has been suppressing hawkers who maintained the community ecology, and smothering the room for grass-roots people to earn a living and their freedom to use public spaces; even though the Government had discussions on matters related to hawkers and bazaars in the past, the relevant policies introduced were incomprehensive and lacked a direction; the Yau Tsim Mong District Council's objection against the Government's proposal to operate a 'cooked food bazaar at MacPherson Playground' during the Lunar New Year 2017 is a case in point; in this connection, this Council urges the Government to:

(1) formulate a territory-wide long-term bazaar policy to preserve the existing bazaars and develop various kinds of bazaars, including grass-roots livelihood bazaars, home-made food bazaars, farmers' bazaars, cooked food night bazaars, culture and arts bazaars, etc.;

(2) set up a Bazaar Development Department to coordinate various government departments and District Councils for formulating a set of clear and standardised application process for bazaar operation, so as to assist community organisations and grass-roots people to apply for operating bazaars;

(3) establish consultation channels to collect information on places proposed by the public and District Councils for operating bazaars, and draw up and make public a list of bazaar sites over the territory (including sites under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, the Lands Department, the Housing Department and the Highways Department), so that social welfare organisations and charitable bodies may borrow these sites for holding bazaar activities on a regular basis;

(4) review the existing regulatory system on food production to allow grass-roots people who operate cooked food stalls to lawfully produce or process food at home; and review the existing licensing conditions for small cooked food stalls, so that grass-roots people who operate cooked food stalls can warm food on the spot;

(5) cooperate with local organisations to provide premises for 'community kitchens', so as to allow grass-roots people who operate cooked food stalls at bazaars to produce or process food in the relevant premises;

(6) explore holding temporary holiday bazaars during holidays, such as Lunar New Year, Labour Day, Easter, Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, Christmas Day, etc.; and implement a pilot scheme during Lunar New Year to select a Lunar New Year Fair and designate a pedestrian precinct for operating bazaars in each of the five major constituencies of Hong Kong, so as to allow people in each constituency to relish afresh authentic night bazaar culture; and

(7) refrain from conducting eradication operations against bazaar hawkers during Lunar New Year before the formulation of a specific bazaar policy."

     Mr Shiu Ka-fai, Mr Steven Ho and Mr Hui Chi-fung will move separate amendments to Dr Lau Siu-lai's motion.

     In addition, Ms Starry Lee will move a proposed resolution under section 34(4) of the Interpretation and General Clauses Ordinance to extend the period for amending the Port Control (Cargo Working Areas) (Amendment) Regulation 2016 laid on the table of the Council on December 7, 2016 to the meeting of February 8, 2017.

     On bill, the Arbitration (Amendment) Bill 2016 will be introduced into the Council for the First Reading and the Second Reading. The Second Reading debate on the Bill will be adjourned.

     During the meeting, Members will also ask the Government 22 questions on various policy areas, six of which require oral replies.

     The agenda of the above meeting can be obtained via the LegCo website (www.legco.gov.hk). Please note that the agenda is subject to change, and the latest information about the agenda could be found on the LegCo website.

     Members of the public are welcome to observe the proceedings of the meeting from the public galleries of the Chamber of the LegCo Complex. They may reserve seats by calling 3919 3399 during office hours. Members of the public can also watch or listen to the meeting via the "Webcast" system on the LegCo website.

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Missing man in Wong Tai Sin located

December 12, 2016, 2:47 am

≫ Next: Appeal for information on missing woman in Yuen Long (with photo)

≪ Previous: LegCo to debate motion under Rule 49B(1A) of the Rules of Procedure

     A man who went missing in Wong Tai Sin was located.

     Ho Yu-hung, aged 49, went missing after he left his residence in Tung Wui Estate on November 27 morning. The staff member of a hostel made a report to Police on the same day.

      The man was located on Container Port Road in Tsing Yi today (December 12). He sustained no injuries and was sent to Princess Margaret Hospital for examination. No suspicious circumstances were detected.

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Appeal for information on missing woman in Yuen Long (with photo)

December 12, 2016, 3:10 am

≫ Next: LegCo Subcommittee on Matters Relating to Railways visits South Island Line (East) (with photos)

≪ Previous: Missing man in Wong Tai Sin located

     Police today (December 12) appealed to the public for information on a woman who went missing in Yuen Long.

     Leung Yuk-yin, aged 49, went missing after she left her residence at Nam Hang Tsuen on November 8 morning. Her family made a report to Police on December 10.ã

     She is about 1.5 metres tall, 60 kilograms in weight and of fat build. She has a round face with yellow complexion and long black hair. She was last seen carrying a multicoloured shoulder bag.

     Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing woman or may have seen her is urged to contact the Regional Missing Person Unit of North Territories North on 3661 3128 or 6273 5787 or email to rmpu-ntn-1@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

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LegCo Subcommittee on Matters Relating to Railways visits South Island Line (East) (with photos)

December 12, 2016, 3:17 am

≫ Next: LegCo Joint Subcommittee to Monitor the Implementation of the West Kowloon Cultural District Project visits West Kowloon Cultural District (with photos)

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The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

     The Legislative Council Subcommittee on Matters Relating to Railways conducted a visit today (December 12) to MTR South Island Line (East) to enable members to better understand the service and facilities of the new railway line before its commissioning.

     Accompanied by the Chief Executive Officer of the MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL), Mr Lincoln Leong, members first visited the extension of the Admiralty Station and were briefed on the extension works and interchange arrangement of Admiralty Station by representatives of MTRCL.

     Members then boarded the train to South Horizons Station and Ocean Park Station of the South Island Line (East) to better understand the service and facilities, as well as the artworks of the two new stations. They were also briefed on the running of the Fully Automatic Operation which is adopted for the South Island Line (East).

     During the visit, members exchanged views with representatives of MTRCL on issues relating to the patronage and passenger flow management of the South Island Line (East), enhancement of train service, upgrading of signalling systems, as well as the barrier-free access and facilities for persons with disabilities.

     Members who participated in the visit are the chairman of the Subcommittee, Mr Michael Tien, and the Subcommittee members, Mr Wilson Or and Mr Nathan Law, as well as non-subcommittee members, Mr Paul Tse, Mr Chan Chi-chuen and Dr Fernando Cheung.

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LegCo Joint Subcommittee to Monitor the Implementation of the West Kowloon Cultural District Project visits West Kowloon Cultural District (with photos)

December 12, 2016, 4:07 am

≫ Next: Dried shrimp floss and dried sliced sea volute samples detected with preservative exceeding legal limit

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The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

     At the invitation of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA), the Legislative Council (LegCo) Joint Subcommittee to Monitor the Implementation of the West Kowloon Cultural District Project (Joint Subcommittee) visited the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) in the afternoon today (‍December 12) to see for themselves the latest development of the WKCD Project.

     Members first received a briefing on the WKCD Project by Mr Duncan Pescod, Chief Executive Officer of WKCDA, at the WKCDA Project Site Office. Afterwards, with the company of Mr Pescod and representatives of WKCDA and the Home Affairs Bureau, Members visited two facilities at WKCD that have been open to the public, namely the Nursery Park and the M+ Pavilion. At the Nursery Park, Members were advised that the Park was a popular public space for a diverse range of leisure activities. They further learnt that programmes and events incorporating art and cultural elements had been carried out regularly in the Park.

     During the visit to the M+ Pavilion, where a design exhibition is being held, Members learnt about the operation of the M+ Pavilion since its inauguration in September this year from representatives of WKCDA.

     In addition, Members paid a visit to the construction site of the Xiqu Centre, which is expected to be opened in 2018. The Xiqu Centre will be the first major performing arts venue in WKCD as well as a venue specifically built for xiqu (Chinese opera) performances. Members took the opportunity to obtain the latest update on the construction progress of the Xiqu Centre and to exchange views with representatives of WKCDA on the construction project.

     The Joint Subcommittee will hold a meeting next Tuesday (December 20) to follow up the progress of the development of WKCD.

     Members who participated in the visit are the Chairman of the Joint Subcommittee, Mr Lau Kwok-fan, the Deputy Chairman of the Joint Subcommittee, Ms Tanya Chan, as well as member of the Joint Subcommittee Dr ‍‍Helena Wong.

     The Joint Subcommittee is a subcommittee formed under the LegCo Panel on Development and the LegCo Panel on Home Affairs.

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Dried shrimp floss and dried sliced sea volute samples detected with preservative exceeding legal limit

December 12, 2016, 4:20 am

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     The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (December 12) announced that a prepackaged dried shrimp floss sample and a loose-packed sliced sea volute sample were found to contain a preservative, sulphur dioxide, at levels exceeding the legal limit. The CFS is following up on the cases.

     Details of the prepackaged dried shrimp floss sample are as follows:

Product name: Japanese Dried Shrimp Floss
Origin: Japan
Distributor: Bright Overseas Food Limited
Best before date: April 30, 2017
Net weight: 150 grams

     A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned dried shrimp floss sample and dried sliced sea volute sample respectively from two retail outlets in Sheung Wan and Tai Po for testing under its regular Food Surveillance Programme. The test results showed that the dried shrimp floss sample and the dried sliced sea volute sample contained sulphur dioxide at levels of 36 parts per million (ppm) and 5830 ppm respectively, exceeding the legal limit of 30 ppm."

     The spokesman said the CFS has taken follow-up actions on the unsatisfactory samples, including informing the vendors concerned of the irregularities and instructing them to stop selling and remove from shelves the affected products. The CFS is also tracing the sources and distribution of the affected products.

     Sulphur dioxide is a commonly used preservative in a variety of foods including dried vegetables, dried fruits, pickled vegetables and meat products. This preservative is of low toxicity. As it is water soluble, most of it can be removed through washing and cooking. However, individuals who are allergic to this preservative may experience symptoms of shortness of breath, headache and nausea. The spokesman advised the public to consult a doctor if they feel unwell after consuming the food. Based on the levels of sulphur dioxide detected in the two unsatisfactory samples, adverse health effects will not be caused under usual consumption.

     The spokesman reminded the food trade that the use of preservatives in food must comply with the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap 132BD). Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment upon conviction. Members of the public should buy food from reliable suppliers, and maintain a balanced diet so as to avoid excessive intake of certain chemicals as a result of frequent consumption of a small range of food items.

     The CFS will continue to follow up on the cases and take appropriate action.

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Transcript of remarks by FS at media session (with video)

December 12, 2016, 4:56 am

≫ Next: Fatal traffic accident in Lantau South

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     Following is the transcript of remarks by the Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang, at a media session today (December 12) at the lobby of West Wing, Central Government Offices, Tamar:

Financial Secretary: Friends of the media, fellow Hong Kong citizens, I believe you are all aware of the statement issued by Government earlier today. I have this morning tendered my resignation to the Chief Executive. I shall take leave starting from tomorrow. My Political Assistant has also tendered his resignation to the Chief Executive this morning.

     First of all, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Central People's Government for their trust in me and their support and encouragement all along. It is my enormous honour and privilege to serve this community of ours and the people of Hong Kong, and to contribute to the long-term development of our home as well as our nation.

     I wish to thank C Y and the entire team of senior officials for their support in the past four and a half years, and in helping me fulfil my aspirations as the Financial Secretary.

     I would also like to thank the two former Chief Executives. Mr Tung nominated me for the post of Commissioner of Customs and Excise in 1999. That was my first post as Principal Official. Mr Tsang nominated me to take up the post of Financial Secretary in 2007, and I have now served that role for more than nine years. It is the longest position that I have ever held in my 34 years of public service, and is the most memorable chapter of my career as a public servant.

     I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all my government colleagues, past and present. The Hong Kong civil service is a team that is impartial, efficient and competent. They have continued to excel, discharging their duties faithfully despite the mounting pressure and the rising expectation from different sectors in recent years. Their hard work and their dedication is the key motive force that drives Hong Kong forward.

     Finally, I wish to thank the people of Hong Kong. You may be aware that I returned to Hong Kong from the US in 1982 to become a civil servant in the Hong Kong Government. It has been a huge honour and privilege for me to have witnessed the historical moment of Hong Kong's reunification with our motherland, and I am proud to see that the principles of "one country, two systems", "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" and a high degree of autonomy have been successfully implemented, and that Hong Kong continues to be prosperous and stable.

     I think all of you are concerned about whether I would run for Chief Executive or not. As I have said before, whether I would run or not run is a serious and solemn matter. I shall think through this in the coming days and make an announcement once ready. I hope you would understand that I am not able to say any more than what I have said so far, given my current position as Financial Secretary, so thank you.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

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Fatal traffic accident in Lantau South

December 12, 2016, 6:09 am

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≪ Previous: Transcript of remarks by FS at media session (with video)

     Police are investigating a fatal traffic accident in Lantau South this afternoon (December 12) in which a 53-year-old man died.

     About 1.25pm today, a light goods vehicle (LGV) driven by the 53-year-old man was travelling along South Lantau Road towards Tung Chung. When approaching near Silver Mine Bay Water Treatment Works, the LGV reportedly rammed into a device on roadside and a traffic sign.

     The 53-year-old male driver was later found collapsed without superficial injury. He was rushed to Mui Wo General Out-patient Clinic in unconscious state and was certified dead at 5.08pm.

     The case will be handed over to the Special Investigation Team of Traffic, New Territories South for investigation.

     Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers at 3661 1346.

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Regional Traffic Day of Hong Kong Island

December 12, 2016, 6:21 am

≫ Next: Update on new Air Traffic Management System operations

≪ Previous: Fatal traffic accident in Lantau South

     Police officers issued a total of 1,150 Fixed Penalty Tickets (FPTs) and 63 summonses to road users violating traffic regulations during the Regional Traffic Day on Hong Kong Island today (December 12).

     The operation concluded at 7pm and a total of 305 officers from Traffic Hong Kong Island and District Traffic Teams of Eastern, Wan Chai, Central and Western Districts were deployed to enforce traffic regulations at traffic black spots on Hong Kong Island.

     A total of 988 FPTs were issued for illegal parking and 162 for other traffic offences.

     Statistics revealed that a total of 2,673 traffic accidents involving casualties occurred on Hong Kong Island from January to November 2016, of which 768 cases with pedestrians injured. Among the traffic accidents with pedestrians injured, 41.5 per cent were attributed to the negligence of pedestrians.

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Update on new Air Traffic Management System operations

December 12, 2016, 6:30 am

≫ Next: Fatal traffic accident in Tseung Kwan O

≪ Previous: Regional Traffic Day of Hong Kong Island

     The radar screens of the new Air Traffic Management System (ATMS) of the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) today (December 12) were unable to display some of the flight information temporarily and the information eventually reappeared automatically. The situation resembled the occurrence on November 29. However, during the incident today, air traffic control officers (ATCOs) were able to obtain all of the flight information through Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) technology, which was recently implemented, on another display screen next to the radar screen. Aviation safety was not affected by the incident.

     "The incident took place around noon today. The radar screens were unable to display some of the flight information such as flight callsigns and flight speed while positions and altitudes of the flight targets were still available on the radar screens. The flight information reappeared automatically after about 75 seconds. The situation differed from the occurrence on November 29 because, benefiting from the CAD’s expedited full implementation of ADS-B in the Hong Kong Flight Information Region (HKFIR), ATCOs have been able to get the information on flights inside the HKFIR through ADS-B since last Thursday (December 8). Therefore, ATCOs today could obtain the information temporarily missing from the radar screen by viewing another screen at the same working position through ADS-B. Nevertheless, for the sake of prudence, the ATCOs suspended the handling of departing flights for four minutes to safeguard aviation safety," a CAD spokesman said.

     Members of the senior management of Raytheon Company, the contractor for the new ATMS, are currently in Hong Kong to follow up on the occurrence on November 29. According to their investigation and analysis, the cause of the occurrence today was not new but similar to that of November 29. The root cause was that, when working staff carried out system maintenance in retrieving and archiving data, the process took priority, and the flight plan association process was expected to take place shortly afterwards, resulting in the momentary flight plan dis-association. The CAD tentatively believed that the incident was caused by working staff who failed to follow the recommended procedures promulgated by the department earlier, which was to avoid retrieving and archiving data from the Main System. This was not a new issue.

     "According to the investigation report regarding the incident on November 29 submitted by Raytheon to the CAD last week, staff should not retrieve data from the Main System to ensure the Main system operation is not impacted. With regard to the incident today, the department has reminded working staff again the relevant procedures so as to avoid recurrence," the spokesman said.

     There was no loss or corruption of flight plan data during the occurrence today. All other functions of the new ATMS were functioning normally. ATCOs can obtain all the flight information through the radar system and ADS-B simultaneously at all times. Hence, neither air traffic management, nor aviation safety were affected. The Fallback system and the Ultimate Fallback System of the new ATMS were operating normally and available for selection at all times. Raytheon has already developed the software fix to optimise the system. The CAD will conduct the testing and adopt the software fix to avoid the recurrence of similar incidents after the peak traffic season during Christmas and Lunar New Year.

     The CAD issued two press releases regarding the incident on November 29 (see related links).

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Fatal traffic accident in Tseung Kwan O

December 12, 2016, 7:26 am

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     Police are investigating a fatal traffic accident in Tseung Kwan O this afternoon (December 12) in which a 78-year-old man died.

     About 5.10pm today, a bus driven by a 54-year-old man was travelling along Po Ning Road towards Sheung Ning Road. When approaching roundabout towards Sheung Ning Road exit, the 78-year-old male passenger reportedly fell from staircase.

     Sustaining injuries to his head, the 78-year-old man was rushed to Tseung Kwan O Hospital in unconscious state. He was certified dead at 9.35pm.

     The case will be handed over to the Special Investigation Team of Traffic, Kowloon East for investigation.

      Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers at 2305 7500 or 2305 7571.

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Latest posting date of Christmas mail for local delivery

December 12, 2016, 6:00 pm

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Hongkong Post today (December 13) reminded members of the public that the latest posting date of Christmas mail for local delivery before Christmas Day is December 21 (Wednesday). Postings after this date might run the risk of not being delivered in time because of anticipated seasonal work pressure. Members of the public are advised to post as early as possible to avoid a last-minute rush.

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Official ceremony held to commemorate Nanjing Massacre (with photos)

December 12, 2016, 6:56 pm

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The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has held an official ceremony in commemoration of the victims who died in the Nanjing Massacre and those who were killed during the Japanese invasion. The ceremony was held at the Redoubt Courtyard of the Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence this morning (December 13).

The Chief Executive, Mr C Y Leung, attended the ceremony and laid a wreath.

Also present at this morning's ceremony were representatives of Central People's Government organisations in Hong Kong, a representative from the Judiciary, senior government officials, members of the Legislative Council, members of the Executive Council, former members of the Hong Kong Independent Battalion of the Dongjiang Column, war veterans' groups, community dignitaries and student groups.

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