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In essence, this programme involved a steady intensification of work from a general background briefing in stage one, to the specific subject-related seminars in stage two, the detailed introduction of the budgetary cycle in stage three, and full consultation in the preparation of the 1997-98 Budget in stage four.
"An Expert Group has since been set up under the Sino-British Joint Liaison Group to carry this forward. This Expert Group has gone through the first three stages of the programme of work in a pragmatic and co-operative manner. We expect this to continue in the final stage of the programme," he said.
Mr Tsang said that this afternoon he had outlined a bold range of proposals, particularly for developing the manufacturing and service industries.
"In the near future, we shall consider these proposals in greater detail. In doing so, the views of Members of this Council and of the community as a whole will be invaluable.
"But obviously many of the proposals have financial implications beyond 1997. They will have to be considered and, if appropriate, carried forward by the future Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government.
"As our consideration progresses, I will ask the Secretary for the Treasury to discuss those proposals having expenditure implications for the 1997-98 Budget in the Expert Group. I also stand ready to explain these proposals personally to the Chief Executive (Designate) as soon as he or she is appointed," he said.
End
Continuing the economic success story
The Financial Secretary, Mr Donald Tsang, told the Legislative Council today (Wednesday) that his aim in presenting the Budget had been to enable Hong Kong's economic success story to continue well into the next century.
The people would be equipped with the skills they needed to go on improving their quality of life and building our community's prosperous future.
He said, "This future must include everyone. Economic success would enable us to provide the care, support and protection for those who needed it.