bridge the p between the Government and the people,
the Joverament is well aware of this need and indeed,
so far as the Sow Territories are concerned, this is
one of the specific funtions of the Heung Yee Kuk
itself as provided for in the Ordinance under which it
is constituted. However, apart from referring to these
two points, it is suggested that the Kinister should
confins his reply to saying that he has noted these
representations and will consider them.
(vi) Introduction of Chinese as an official lanmage in
Hong Kong to be used simultaneously with English.
·
The Minister might say that he fully appreciates
the dele ̧ation's reasons for puttin, forward this
proposal. It does, however, present formidable
airriculties and would lead to considerable additional
expense on the part of the Hong Kong Government. He
has, however,noted the request and will consider it.
(vii) Land seller scorted by the Hong Kong Severnsent in the
Her Zerritories.
This subject has been a bone of contention
with the Meung Yes Kuk for several yourE. All land
in the New Territories is held on lease from the
Crow and is restricted in user. The Kuk has
maintained that land held at the time the
New Territories were taken over should be exempt from
this restriction and that permi sion should be freely
given for the development, withoutpayment of a premium,
of ricultural land. No premium is in fact charged
where the development is to mable villagera to
/build
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