- 2 -
At this juncture may I make some observations:
(a)
(b)
the Administration has very carefully considered the suggestion that the proposed North-western line be extended to Tuen Mun Town Centre. This, in our view, is not feasible at the present time because of the substantial additional costs (estimated at $3 - 4 bn. at 1994 prices) and also because of the current land and environmental constraints;
in recent weeks there has been considerable press speculation that our Western Corridor Railway proposals do not match railway plans on the Chinese side of the border. Such comment is misplaced. Our proposals envisage that Lo Wu will remain the main crossing point for both passengers and freight. The proposed loop to Lok Ma Chau would simply lead to an alternative terminal for passengers only. But clearly discussion with the Chinese side is essential to reach mutual understanding and agreement on crossing points. This is precisely the kind of detail that will need to be discussed, and views exchanged, at the newly-established Infrastructure Co-ordinating Committee;
The Strategy also identifies a number of other railways in the longer term, the timing for which will be dependent on future land reclamation and development plans. For example, on Hong Kong Island, the strategy encompasses a number of schemes including an east-west rail link on the future Central and Wanchai Reclamation (from Central to Tin Hau) and an MTR extension from Sheung Wan to Green Island. And, finally, the strategy also envisages much longer term options such as an "Outer" Western Corridor linking Green Island, Lantau and Tuen Mun, and a freight rail link to the Lantau container port.
The implementation of the three priority railway systems identified in the Strategy will straddle 1997, and most of the expenditure will be incurred thereafter. We have therefore briefed the Chinese side of the JLG.
Mr President, it is my belief that our Railway Development Strategy will contribute greatly towards improving our overall transportation network, relieving road congestion, supporting further development of land in the New Territories, and assisting in Hong Kong's further economic growth.
Thank you Mr President.
End/Wednesday, December 14, 1994