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The implementation plan, although not included as part of the legislation, will be publicised. The industry will be consulted on the plan and it will be issued as a practice note to the industry. On completion of each phase of implementation, the LegCo will be consulted before proceeding to the next phase.
I would also like to reiterate that, in taking enforcement action under this Bill. the enforcement authorities will consider extending the specified period for complying with a direction if the owner or occupier found that, after commencement of the improvement works, he could not finish the work due to unforeseen problems. This is the current practice adopted in other related legislation.
Finally, I am aware that there are increasing concerns expressed on the improvement of fire safety measures in old commercial buildings and karaoke establishments in the territory. We are actively looking into the possible options to address the problem, including legislative and licensing measures. This legislation will provide a very good reference for us to work on.
Mr President, I recommend the Fire Safety (Commercial Premises) Bill to this
Council.
End
Fire Safety (Commercial Premises) Bill: committee stage
Following are the speeches by the Secretary for Security, Mr Peter Lai, in moving the committee stage amendments of the Fire Safety (Commercial Premises) Bill in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Mr Chairman,
I move that the clauses specified be amended as set out in the paper circularized to Members.
The amendments to clauses 3, 3(1) and 5 have already been referred to in the Second Reading debate.
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