-
35
(b)
(c)
On the second question: As stated above, 137 villages have yet to hold VR elections. Of these, only a small number, 29, have yet to accept the new rules. Given the NT residents' respect for established customs and traditions, it should not be of surprise to find that a small number of them still holds an entrenched attitude for traditional practices. On village representative elections, the residual small number is a good reflection of the combined efforts between the Government, Heung Yee Kuk, and the Rural Committees in this joint endeavour. We should of course also thank Members of this Council for their support. I can assure Members that we will continue to persevere to persuade the remaining villages to comply with the model rules. Discussions are in progress and I understand that the prospects are good.
On the third question regarding time-table, we anticipate that 47 of the 108 villages will hold their elections in the coming two months. This will be followed by further 42 and 19 in the third and fourth quarters of this year, respectively. We will continue to step up promotional and educational activities in these villages to ensure that the targets are met.
End/Wednesday, May 17, 1995
Benzene volatilised from petrol stations
Following is a question by the Hon Peggy Lam and a reply by the Secretary of Planning, Environment and Lands, Mr Bowen Leung, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
According to a survey conducted in Happy Valley, the amount of benzene volatilized from petrol stations in the district is higher than the recommended acceptable level of 16ug/m3 in Britain. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council whether :