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has not been included as a factor of assessment. Under such circumstances, the Department still thinks that seeking full cost recovery would result in an outcry from the public. I think this is a strange argument. This is the first point I would like to make.
Secondly, the Department often mentions that if we make a suggestion to seek full cost recovery, it would cause a backlash from the hirers. But the fact is, at present, we have the practice of imposing different terms and conditions of hire to the venue hirers according to the specific nature of individual events. For example, we require the concert organisers to hire security guards to maintain order during the concerts as an additional requirement. Similarly, I don't think the hirers would react vigorously towards a higher ticket charge, and would stop hiring venues from the UC. In fact, if an entertainment company intends to hire a venue, the major considerations are whether the venue is suitable for the event and whether they can make a profit with the income from the ticket sales. Comparing with the ticket price of $380, a ticket cost of $6 is just a minimal amount. It does not make a difference to them at all.
Just now Mr. LAI has mentioned that basically speaking, the ticket cost is inversely proportional to the number of tickets sold. I would like to point out that when we provide the facilities, the cost is already incurred. So it will not make any difference to the cost no matter how many tickets are printed. This is what I would like to clarify. Regarding the aspect of cost, we should formulate a policy to recover full cost in respect of the URBTIX system and thereby to ensure fairness in our subsidy policy. With these remarks, I support the motion.
The question was put.
The motion was carried unanimously.
CHAIRMAN (in Cantonese): That concludes the business of today's meeting. Council stands adjourned until Tuesday, 9 April 1996 at 2:30 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT 4:54 p.m.
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