XN000022-1995-06-07 — Page 38

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Dr the Hon Leong Che-hung has given notice that he intends to propose a Committee Stage Amendment to reduce this limit to 50 milligrams. The Administration's view is that this more stringent standard, which would equate to about two or three drinks for most people, is difficult to justify at present. The ex officio members will therefore vote against this proposed amendment.

But we certainly appreciate the intent behind the proposed amendment and the Administration undertakes to gather information based on the results of tests on drivers conducted in the first 12 months after the legislation takes effect. We will then review this information and consult the LegCo Transport Panel before deciding whether or not the blood/alcohol limit needs to be adjusted. Let me point out that the Bill has been drafted in such a way that the Secretary for Transport can vary the prescribed limit quite easily by means of a Gazette notice, which would then be subject to vetting by Members of this Council in the normal way. We will also review the adequacy of penalties and the equipment available to the Police. Dr Leong's criticism that the Administration is only prepared to test the waters and not seek perfection is with respect unfounded. His proposal was discussed in depth by the Bills Committee but rejected. I thank the Hon Lee Wing-tat for so eloquently presenting some of the counter arguments. And as I've said what is important; Mr President, is that the Administration undertakes to review this within a year.

Mr President, the opportunity has also been taken in this Bill to make a number of minor amendments to the Road Traffic Ordinance relating to vehicle registration marks, the powers of traffic wardens, and the authority to vary the fees charged at vehicle testing centres and vehicle emission testing centres. These amendments have, likewise, been fully supported by the Bills Committee.

I shall be proposing a number of amendments to the Bill at the Committee Stage which seek to improve the working of the proposed legislation.

Mr President, as Dr Leong has said the simple but essential message that the Administration is seeking to put across is that drink and drive do not mix. We will launch a publicity campaign but we need legislation to facilitate enforcement. With these remarks I commend the Bill to Honourable Members.

End/Wednesday, June 7, 1995