XN000022-1995-04-26 — Page 48

Answer:

35. 35 -

a)

b)

At present, there are six markets and six supermarket-cum-markets in Housing Authority estates which have been let to single operators. Past surveys conducted of ten of these markets showed that the products and services provided were well received by residents. By letting these commercial premises to single operators, the Housing Authority expects them to provide an efficient service, while at the same time containing staff growth. For these reasons, the Housing Authority does not intend to discontinue the single-operator practice in the housing estates concerned. However, it will continue to monitor the services provided with a view to improving the letting system if necessary.

In letting markets to single operators, the Housing Authority adopts the following measures to safeguard the interests of residents -

(a) the operator is required under the tenancy agreement to run a

variety of essential trades and services;

(b)

the operator is required to submit individual sub-tenancy agreements to the Authority prior to their execution, and to bring any subsequent change or termination to the notice of the Authority;

(c)

the premises should be kept open for business between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily; and

(d)

the Authority retains the right to terminate the agreement with the single operator in case of unsatisfactory performance on the part of the operator or his sub-tenants.

Moreover, the practice of letting commercial premises to single operators is not adopted unless there is an alternative market in the vicinity. This ensures consumer choice and continuity of service to residents in case of disruption.