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with each other. A few examples were cited to illustrate the lack of coordination between the two councils, such as the timing for the licensing of sushi shops, the legislative control over wax-tampering and the invitation of overseas performing groups. And yet they proposed that in the near future, the 2-tier structure should be replaced by a new mode of operation with four to five municipal boards. I am sure that if there were four to five municipal boards, the problem of inconsistent policies which I just mentioned would be aggravated. It is probable that the liquor licenses issued by Central and Western would be very different from those issued by Tsimshatsui. There would certainly be more disputes then.
I noticed that when Mr. Joseph CHAN spoke today, he listed out 16 points showing the advantages of having one council. I am not certain whether he meant elected council because he was only referring to municipal council. We wish to stress that in whatever circumstances, it would be more desirable for some central policies on cultural and recreational services to be administered by a streamlined council but the premise remains that the municipal council must be a fully elected one.
Mr. Chairman, with these remarks, I support Mr. Joseph Chan's motion.
Ms. CHRISTINE Ting Yuk-CHEE (in Cantonese):—Mr. Chairman, the Urban Council has a history of more than a century since 1883. As everyone knows, it was called the Public Hygiene Board responsible for all the hygiene and cleansing matters. Subsequently, with the gradual increase in functions, it was renamed the Urban Council. It has witnessed the changes that Hong Kong has undergone and is closely related with the daily lives of the people of Hong Kong. In order to improve the living standard of the people of Hong Kong, the Urban Council has, in response to the needs of the community, set up 13 select committees assigned different areas of municipal services, including environment, food hygiene, markets and traders, culture, recreation etc.
'To create an ideal city with concerted efforts' has been the Urban Council's objective. The people of Hong Kong appreciate the value of the Urban Council's existence and its long-standing and new contributions. The Urban Council has become a part of our lives. Apart from providing quality municipal services to the community, the Urban Council plays the role of promoting Hong Kong's international image. Performing groups of the Council are sent overseas for performance, promotion of the international image and exchange of experience while their overseas counterparts are invited to Hong Kong for performance or participation in seminars and so on. Through these external activities, the Urban Council's image is being internationalized. Hence, I consider that in the review of district organizations, the historical significance of the Urban Council should be respected and its contribution in meeting the genuine needs of society should be seriously noted. Its important role in Hong Kong should be maintained.
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