2
These problems have been compounded by the rapid construction of new toms outside the old urban area which require massive expansion and extension of our transport systems. At the same time equally rapid growth in wealth has resulted in the number of private cars nearly
doubling in 5 years. While desirable enough in itself, as you can imagine this has caught out the adequacy of our road system whose development has in any case been delayed.
Thile comparatively recently Hong Kong's transport and traffic in comparison to most other big cities was still rather better, traffic has temporarily outstripped construction and we can now only claim to be little worse. You will hear what is being done, and the situation
should improve dramatically over the next 4 years. Meanwhile we are aoutely conscious of our deficiencies and look forward to taking advantage of such a distinguished gathering of experts for advice which
is free.
Hong Kong is of course a very large market for imported goods and expertise. Much of the development of our transport systema has been carried out by consultants, project managements and contractors from overseas enterprises both great and small, many of whom are represented at this Conference. We are glad to see old friends, and to
welcome new ones.
In two ways, our transport policy differs from most Western economies: first, for reasons of space and passenger volume, we must encourage the use of public rather than private transport; and second, in line with our economic philosophy, public transport is in the hands of private enterprise and, though under a degree of Government control, is expected to operate profitably without subsidy. This it does, even with fares which are generally only one-third of those in London.
-
I must beware of starting to speak of the economic and social policies on which Hong Kong has thrived I could go on for hours, and I know you wish to get down to discussing the finer points of modern transport systems. I will therefore conclude by saying how much I hope your Conference will be a success, and that delegates will look back on their stay in Hong Kong with interest and pleasure and a sense of having
been truly walooza.
I have great pleasure in declaring open the Conference on "Transport into the 80s".