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HONG KONG URBAN COUNCIL
Committee, they are considered inadequate given the rich resources of the Urban Council. In 1994/95, the expenditure on library outreach programmes amounted to $5.3 million, which represents only 3% of the total library expenditure of $106.8 million. The Democratic Party hopes that additional funds can be allocated by the Council for enhancement of library facilities to coincide with the 3 areas of development proposed above.
During this historical moment of Hong Kong, there is a strong public concern about the probable control over the freedom of speech and creation and the possible use of literary works as a means of propaganda by the ruling authority. However, the most worrying fact is that people involved in literary creation may exercise some kind of self-control. In this connection, the Special Administrative Region Government should refrain from enacting any legislation which interferes with the freedom of speech and creation and should clearly define what 'subversion' is. The last thing we want to see is the conviction of subversion of someone for having criticized the authority in his/her writings or exhibited certain works. In fact, I am in no way exaggerating as Wei Jingsheng was convicted of subversion by the Beijing authority and sent to prison for acquiring some newspapers, setting up a company to organize cultural activities, holding non-governmental painting exhibitions and publishing articles. I earnestly request people involved in literary creation to continue to contribute to the promotion of pluralistic culture and freedom of creation during this historical moment of Hong Kong.
I would like to respond to the question of party politics raised by a fellow Councillor. He said that party politics will undermine individual thinking of Councillors. I beg to differ. In the capacity of a political party member, I can say that our formulated policies are the results of discussions and cooperation. Besides, within this Council, we have organizations which are converting into political parties. There are also friendly alliances or otherwise. Party politics is in fact not a great scourge.
On the contrary, the thing that worries us most is Councillors' north-looking attitude. Just now, a fellow Councillor expressed his admiration for Mr. Chairman's moral courage to undergo direct election. However, Mr. Chairman has recently indicated that he supports the decision of China to introduce 10 appointed seats after 1997. This remark destroys his image of an open-minded and democratic person which he has maintained since the direct election. As Mr. Chairman supports admission to this Council through direct election, he should understand well the importance of public support to an Urban Councillor. Therefore, you can imagine how shocking it was when Mr. Chairman gave his open support to the introduction of appointed seats to allow a smooth transition of Urban Councillors.
I hereby appeal to fellow Councillors to make joint efforts in improving library services; promoting literary creation and safeguarding the freedom of literary creation. Now when the north wind is blowing hard, we should pluck up our
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