CONFIDENTIAL

2 -

Encroachment by squatters round the periphery will be prevented and the nuisance caused to villagers by firing practice will be reduced by moving the new firing point to the south;

(c)

the High Island Water Scheme.

(a)

(e)

Up to now the Kuk have taken only a marginal interest in this project, but as the time for the resumption of land and the removal of villages in the reservoir area approaches they are showing greater interest.

Most

of the details of the compensation "package" have been agreed, and the main part of the deal consists of the rehousing of the villagers in shops and flats nearing completion at Sai Kung;

the Sha Tau Kok closed area. There has been some agitation to have the frontier closed area restrictions lifted. The present position

is that it has been decided that the closed area must remain for security reasons. Discussion now centres on whether any relaxation in the system of permits can be made, and on whether development just outside the closed area is possible or desirable; and

law and order. The Kuk have given their support to the "Fight Violent Crime" Campaign and may well be taking a more direct part, although the action to date has been at District and Rural Committee level.

The Kuk has also expressed some concern

recently about the position of the District Commissioner, New Territories and the New Territories Administration in relation to the proposed re-organization of the central machinery of the Government (as a result of the recommendations made by McKinsey & Co.). Apparently they are worried about the possible effects on the status of the District Commissioner, New Territories, and the consideration given to New Territories affairs, and may possibly mention this. Denis Bray may not be au fait

CONFIDENTIAL

/with....

Share This Page