XN000022-1972-03-15 — Page 11

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Wednesday, March 15, 1972

"This is a serious matter, as every man knows that it is not safe for

him to go out in the street because when any assistance from the Police is

sought it may not be forthcoming," he said.

Mr. Woo also asked Government to consider seriously whether or not

some of the duties now performed by the Traffic Branch of the Police Force

would be done by civilians.

"The Traffic Branch has taken the job of the Traffic Warden as we

have in England, and I am sure that these duties can be performed by civilians

rather than by uniformed personnel."

Unoccupied Premises

On the proposal to charge rates on unoccupied premises as from April 1,

1973, Mr. Woo pointed out that the burden of payment of rates was on the occupier

and if the premises were unoccupied the rates were therefore not payable.

"My Honourable Friend's proposal is a departure from general principles

but I am not arguing on general principles and if this Council accepts his proposal

one very important exception should be made, "he said.

Developers of land at present were building multi-storey buildings

with a view not to let them but to sell them and people also found it cheaper

to buy their own residences than to rent them.

"If my Honourable Friend's proposal is accepted it would deter development

of land in Hong Kong, for once the Certificate of Occupation is granted by the

Building Authority rates will begin to be payable even if the premises are

vacant," he said.

/It would