NARCOTICS
The booklet "Hong Kong: A Case to Answer" alleges that
there are 300,000 heroin addicts in Hong Kong.
Present Position
The Hong Kong Government estimates that there are 80,000-
100,000 addicts.
Over the last two years there has been a major reorgani-
sation of Government Departments, which has meant that they are
now better co-ordinated and effective. Two pilot projects on
methadrone substitution are at present being carried out and it is hoped that if this method is introduced it will reduce drug
addiction in Hong Kong.
There has been greatly improved regional co-operation in
SE Asia over the last two years, resulting in seizures of large
drug consignments.
HOUSING
There is the possibility of criticism over increases in
rents for public housing in Hong Kong.
Present Position
Rents have remained unchanged for 10 years.
In order to reduce the housing authority's substantial deficit, the Hong Kong Government is proposing a modest increase in rents (ExCo were being asked to take a decision on 22 October on whether there should be an increase, effective from 1.12.74, where increase should be delayed for a year because of the current economic situation).
The Hong Kong Government say that anyone who had difficulty in paying their rents would be assisted by rent rebates or public
assistance adjustments.