XN000022-1995-03-08 — Page 68

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Squatter structures in Shek O

Following is a question by the Hon Jimmy McGregor and a written reply by the Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands, Mr Tony Eason, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

Bearing in mind the need for all tenants on Government land paying rental to the Government to be treated fairly, will the Government inform this Council why some tenants in the Shek O Village area such as those on site No. 466 and site No. 400-420 are paying very substantial rentals to the Government with over 100% increases since 1994, while other tenants in the same Shek O Village area such as those on sites No. 410, 784, 787, 814, 817 and 856 on which restaurants and shops are located apparently are paying no Government rentals at all?

Answer:

Mr President,

Structures on Site Nos. 410, 784, 787, 816, 817 and 856 in Shek O are squatter structures built on government land. They are not covered by any government licence or tenancy agreement. Therefore, no rent is charged.

Site Nos. 466 and 400/402 were covered by Crown Land Licences issued in the early 1980s. In 1984, in accordance with government policy, these licences were converted to short term tenancies. Full market rental has been payable since then. The rentals are revised every three years and the last review for these tenancies was on 1 January 1995. Should the tenants disagree with the new rental, appeals may be made to the Director of Lands.

End/Wednesday, March 8, 1995