XN000022-1995-06-07 — Page 56

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Reply:

(b)

Mr President,

(a)

(b)

the Government has reflected the concern of local people to the relevant Chinese authorities; and whether the Government is aware of the measures taken by the Chinese authorities to solve the problem?

The Water Supplies Department carries out routine tests at a frequency of three times daily to check the quality of raw water supplied from China. The latest equipment and techniques are used in a comprehensive monitoring programme for all water in the supply and distribution system, in accordance with the internationally acceptable practice.

Over the years WSD has noticed some fluctuations in water quality in the raw water supplies from the Dongjiang River and the Shenzhen Reservoir. These fluctuations are well within the treatment capabilities of our treatment works, and the potable water which supplied to consumers is up to the standard set by the department which complies with the requirements of the World Health Organisation.

Furthermore, the quality of raw water from the Dongjiang River has met the requirements laid down by international guidelines.

There are regular liaison meetings between Hong Kong and Guangdong authorities on water quality matters. These include the Annual Business Meeting with myself leading for Hong Kong, and the Director of Guangdong Provincial Bureau of Water Conservancy and Hydro-Power leading for the Chinese side. In addition an Operating and Management Technical Sub-group meets at working levels, to discuss water quality control and operational matters, at least twice a year. Further ad hoc contacts by telephone can take place at any time if water quality or other operational reasons make this necessary.

The Guangdong authorities have followed up on the meetings with actions whenever needed to improve the quality of water supplied to Hong Kong. These include legislative and enforcement actions to protect the water source from the Dongjiang River, as well as engineering measures such as the introduction of sewage diversion schemes and building additional sewage treatment works.

End/Wednesday, June 7, 1995