}
CONFIDENTIAL
(g)
(h)
(i)
- 5-
XCC(71)20
the Council has proved competent in some of its functions (mainly the provision of recreational facilities) but less effective in such fields as the control of hawking and the prevention of litter. It is impossible to resist the conclusion that the problems involved in trying to discharge its present responsibilities effectively are so enormous, parti- cularly with the high residential densities and thoughtless habits of Hong Kong residents, that it is unrealistic to think in terms of substantial additional functions for the Council;
since it has no financial responsibilities whatever under the present system, a primary requirement is to give the Council substantial financial autonomy so as to help to develop its sense of genuine involve- ment in its statutory duties, while at the same time reducing the scope for wrangles with the Government over the sums allocated to the Council each year;
politically, and especially in view of the long delay since an undertaking to review the question of local administration was first given in the 1966 Budget debate, which prompted the Council to seek additional scope, it is not possible to leave things as they are; nor indeed would it be desirable to do so, since there are unsatisfactory features of the Urban Council which do need to be corrected, regardless of the future scope of the Council's responsibilities.
Recommended action
8 mended:
In the circumstances, the following course of action is recom-
(a)
Clarification of the Urban Council's role: the Urban Council's functions should be closely defined, but on broad lines as follows:
(i) environmental public health, including
sanitation and hygiene;
(ii) recreation and amenities, including the
provision of entertainment by the Council; (iii) the provision of cultural services.
Given these terms of reference, the Urban Council will have no claim to responsibilities in such fields as town planning, social welfare, education or fire services. The Council's present interest in public housing should remain unchanged until such time as a decision is taken on the coordination of efforts in this field (see paragraph 10).
CONFIDENTIAL