XN000022-1973-05-16 — Page 4

Wednesday, May 16, 1973

"The first stage of the Shek Kip Mei redevelopment is the first

time these problems have had to be faced in this form.

"There are at present about 500,000 people living in old estates in

need of redevelopment. This scheme which only rehouses 10,000 people is

thus only the first step in 50. But you know the Chinese saying that with

all endeavours it is the beginning that is difficult.

"I am sure that in making this beginning you have learnt many lessons.

These will be of great help in the later stages of the Shek Kip Mei rehousing

scheme and in similar schemes elsewhere.

"I am here to express my personal interest in this programme, and to

confirm for myself that the problems have been solved. I congratulate you

all on their solution, and I say this equally to the staff of the Housing

Department, the Kaifong Welfare Association, the tenants themselves and to

all the others involved.

Therefore I

"There is now a prospect for a better life for everyone in this

fine new building. To have ease of mind you must feel safe.

urge you to participate to the full in the anti-crime campaign. Do not be

dismayed by crime, but confront it. This is the way to master it. The

campaign managers will explain to you how to do this, and I look for your

full support. You can certainly rely on mine."

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