5
14.
Many respondents expressed disappointment over the lack of concrete proposals to combat inflation. They were worried that the huge spending on social welfare, education and health would further fuel
inflation. Some were however somewhat relieved to note that Government
would protect those most vulnerable to inflation. A few respondents welcomed the increase in funding for the tertiary institutions to undertake research and development, and retraining for productivity.
Infrastructural Development (including the Airport Core Programme),
15.
Respondents agreed that the new Airport is essential but were disappointed that there were no proposals to resolve the Airport impasse. They were not optimistic that an agreement would be reached soon, and worried that Hong Kong would suffer economically as a result. Some thought that the Governor was using public support to put pressure on the Chinese side. They viewed the Governor's visit to Peking later this month as crucial to an early resolution of the airport issue.
16.
People were happy to learn that other projects will be carried out in parallel with the PADS projects, though some were worried about the strain on Government's resources. A few were disappointed that little was mentioned to improve traffic conditions in Hong Kong.
Social Welfare
17.
Social Welfare and Education
Most commentators welcomed the Governor's commitments to implement the recommendations in last year's White Paper on Social Welfare. People also praised the new Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Scheme with its improved benefits and simplified criteria.
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