3

On the other point on loss of revenue that Mr. Hilton

we can only make an estimate but the

CHEONG-LEEN raised

Hong Kong Tourist Association

estimated that in 1987,

there were some 235,000 visitors who stayed less than 24

hours. If one assumes that all those would be the people

eligible for this particular concession, it would cost

something in the region of $23 million.

MR.

CHEONG-LEEN : sir, I referred only to dawn-to-dusk

transit passengers, and not passengers who would stay for

24 hours or less. But may I ask the Financial Secretary

if he has consulted the industry on the suggestion, and if

not, would he care to pursue it with them to obtain their

reaction, including the views of the airline companies?

FINANCIAL SECRETARY : Sir, I would certainly take note of

that suggestion. I do not believe there has been any

consultation but I think the views of the tourist industry

are already well known on the question of the tax as a

whole.

will certainly take note of it.

But we

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