15 -
Since the Chinese language classes organized by community organizations treat all pupils the same and do not differentiate them by countries of origin, there should be no problems for descendants of indigenous villagers of the New Territories residing in the UK to enroll in these classes.
Because of the reasons stated above, the Government has no plan to resume the granting of subsidies for running Chinese language classes in the UK.
End
On-going discussions on sewage tunnelling works
Following is a question by the Hon Henry Tang and a written reply by the Secretary for Works, Mr Kwong Hon-sang, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
In regard to the Stage I Strategic Sewage Disposal Scheme project, will the Government inform this Council of:
(a)
the problems which have arisen in the above project resulting in the temporary suspension of the construction works;
(b)
the party which should be held responsible for such problems; and
(c)
the costs of the improvement works arising from such problems?
Answer:
Mr President,
(a) Stage I works for the Strategic Sewage Disposal Scheme (SSDS) provides for the collection, treatment and disposal of 1.7 million cubic metres of domestic and industrial wastewater per day from urban Kowloon and the northeastern parts of Hong Kong Island by -
(i) upgrading of seven preliminary treatment works;