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Reply:
Mr President,
(a)
As mentioned in our reply to a Member's question raised on 10 November 1993, the unique experience at the new Kansai Airport in Japan is not applicable to Chek Lap Kok. There is no evidence so far of the reclamation site having problems with soil settlement. Based on studies of other major reclamation works and observations on a test embankment constructed at Chek Lap Kok in 1982, the Provisional Airport Authority (PAA) adopted a technique which involved the removal of upper layers of soft marine mud. With this removed, it is estimated that the average settlement of reclamation areas will be between 40 and 50 centimetres over a long period. Prediction of settlement, in particular the rate at which it occurs, is always difficult because of variations in geological conditions. Instrumentation has therefore been installed to monitor settlement as reclamation progresses and results so far confirm that the settlement is performing within our expectations. Provision has already been made to accelerate settlement by mechanical means or surcharge, which are normal practices in Hong Kong.
The responsibility for settlement performance lies with the platform designers, while designers for follow-on works such as runways, drainage and so on must ensure that their designs take into account anticipated settlements. The Government is satisfied that the PAA have, through their consultants or contractors, sufficient insurance in place to cover the design and construction of the new airport. Details on the construction insurance as advised by PAA is as follows -
(1)
(ii)
The Government requires the PAA to effect and maintain through their consultants or contractors, Professional Indemnity insurance in respect of design of the airport project which, subject to availability, is to continue in effect for a period up to 10 years after completion of the project;
Greiner Maunsell, the Master Plan Consultants, who were responsible for preparation of the design of the Airport Platform, have Professional Indemnity insurance in place under their Agreement with the PAA dated 14 July 1990; and