XN000022-1995-02-15 — Page 29

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On a subject such as this, where there are widely different sectoral interests, it would be totally unrealistic to expect a complete unanimity of views on the measures to be taken. But a consensus has emerged on several key points: that the congestion problem is real, that it will get much worse if nothing is done and that we must therefore take action now if we are to avoid slipping into traffic gridlock. This has been illustrated by what the Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Transport in Hong Kong has said and I quote: "congestion, which is rapidly becoming part of our daily lives, is wasting physical, human and financial resources, as well as putting the future prosperity and well-being of Hong Kong at risk". And even the Motor Traders Association, in their publicity blitz, commend the Government for raising this issue and acknowledge that "in a busy, lively city like Hong Kong traffic must move freely".

The package of proposals put forward by the Administration in the Working Party's Report focuses on the more immediate aspects of traffic congestion! Quite consciously, we have concentrated on the micro aspects of how to tackle this. The Liberal Party, The Honourable Christine Loh, Edward Chen, Samuel Wong, the Chartered Institute of Transport and other commentators have, not unexpectedly, touched on macro policy and planning issues. And quite rightly so. Let me assure this Council that the Administration has not lost sight of this. The Territorial Development Study is reviewing broad planning parameters to ensure that infrastructural development is properly co-ordinated. In addition, we will soon be commissioning the Third Comprehensive Transport Study to deal with broader strategic issues which will include long-term projected traffic growth, environmental concerns and other global aspects. Some members have said that the Government wrongly estimated the projected growth in private vehicle numbers. This is not the case. The CTS2 update gave a target for vehicle growth levels that would allow a free flow of traffic. The fact that this figure has been exceeded is why we are now proposing restrictions on growth. Obviously I cannot respond to all the points raised by members this afternoon, but I wish to assure Honourable Members that I would study and consider the many valid points that have been raised. We are not at the stage of evaluating the outcome of the public consultation and we would take careful note of all the contributions received, including the views expressed in this debate before deciding on the way forward.