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CONFIDENTIAL
機密...
The Role Played by Social Pressure Groups
on Public Issue: The Yaumatei Boat Scuatter Affair
1972
21.7.77
16.9.77
In connection with the Tong Hi Road Extension project, public housing were offered to boat dwellers in the Yaumatei Typhoon Shelter. 600 households accepted the offer and moved ashore. It is believed that SoCo was involved in the rehousing exercise and acted as adviser to the clearees.
Boat dwellers from 62 households approached CDG/Y requesting rehousing to THA. CDC/YMT's assessment was that SoCo workers masterminded the whole strategy and pulled the strings behind the scene. Gimmicks were used in this and subsequent petitions to attract the attention of the media. These included the parading of a dilapidated sampan, the presentation of an over- sized letter, the presentation of paper boats signed by students etc. SoCo workers and other sympathisers accompanied boat dwellers (including women and children) at the various petitions. Departmental response had always been to deal directly with the boat people and not through their "advisers".
Boat people petitioned the Chief Secretary. According to CDC/KW's assessment, SoCo attempted to establish a policy whereby THA accommodation would be provided for
boat dwellers on surrender of their boats.
1
12.10.77
As a result of public interest being aroused on the topic, Hon. Mrs. Kwan Ko Siu-wah asked in LegCo whether Covemment
has specific plans to rehouse permanently the boat squatters.
Hon. Kwan Ko Siu-wah has close contacts with social workers
and it is believed that she had been lobbied to pose the
question.
CONFIDENTIAL
機密
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