L
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Wednesday, November 14, 1973
"It appears that this apparent high percentage of 88.26 per cent
of loans against deposits represents a composite figure which does not really give a true picture of the loan/deposit ratio in the local banking system.
"I would ask for a statement to be made of the loan/deposit ratio for banks other than those whose head offices are overseas. In addition, I would urge that future statistics be published on an adjusted basis thus clarifying the true relationship between loans and deposits," Mr. Li said.
However, he added that the increase in loans and advances made
by banks did show that banks in Hong Kong were doing their part in providing the necessary credits available for business and industry in the expanding
economy.
With reference to the question of introducing legislation to regulate finance companies and other deposit-taking institutions, Mr. Li said he sincerely hoped that the time would soon come for the Government to make a decision in the interest of the public at large.
On education, he said he fully endorsed the proposed establishment of a fourth college of education. "However, I feel that it is important to raise the standard of the Teachers' Certificate.
"The quality of the teaching service, though adequate, should be improved, particularly having regard to the increasing requirements of secondary education."
Mr. Li further suggested that the lower stipulated qualifications for entry to the teacher training colleges be up-graded to a more "realistic level."
Mr. Li