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HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL — 2nd October 1969.
[MR SZETO] Motion
call for the reconstitution of the Committee into a more effective body to deal with the multifarious problems that are bound to arise in the immediate years in the light of our ultra-high density developments, rapid vehicle growth and heavy dependence on public transport.
On the question of the public light buses, it was recognized that initial difficulties must be encountered in regularizing their operations after having enjoyed years of freedom and disregard of the law. There may well be special needs in the rural areas in the New Territories, and these and other of their problems are being considered by the TAC and the Commissioner for Transport together with the District Com- missioner's representatives. But, the new licencees must realize that in the interest of traffic and public safety, the few restrictions now imposed on their operations are essential and must be observed. This is of special importance in the congested urban areas. I would appeal to their good sense and respect of the law, to genuinely co-operate with the authority, for the concession they receive, in serving the public.
It is apt, Sir, as far as Hong Kong is concerned, to describe the 1960's as the decade of acquiring information and knowledge which we have now accumulated in considerable quantity. Indeed, we are served with a vast reservoir of information and expert advice on water supplies and transportation as well as in many other fields. Would the early 1970's be the epoch of decision making? Whilst Govern- ment's foresight in instituting these investigations is to be commended, the danger of procrastination so often comes in their train cannot be over-emphasized. All these expert reports have taken considerable time in their preparation, not to mention expenditure; further time has been spent in the deliberations over them by Government working parties, which in turn produce their own reports that may call for the shelving of the originals or replacing them by further reports. While I agree that flexibility in planning is of great importance, and it is a virtue to be able to defer final decisions to the last moment without serious consequence, my concern is that in the case of trans- portation, prolonged indecision is bound to have detrimental effects on our economy in view of our rapid industrial expansion.
The 5-year Road Improvement Programme of the PWD appears to have got off the ground with satisfaction. The long over-due relief for the congestion in North-East Kowloon is now in sight. Given financial provision, which I am sure this Council will, it can be assumed that 1973 will witness the completion of most, if not all, of the important projects it comprises, save any delays that may be occasioned by PWD under-spending due to staff shortage or other causes. I am glad to learn that a Highway Office has recently been set up in that Department presumably to look after planning and
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