XN000022-1995-06-07 — Page 62

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(b)

(c)

The volume of seizures in the past three years has not shown a consistent trend. It dropped in 1993-94 and then increased substantially in 1994- 95. Nor can we draw any clear correlation between the sentences imposed and the number of cases of contraventions. Nevertheless, we consider that there is a need to increase the maximum fines substantially to maintain their deterrent effect. For this purpose, we are planning to introduce amendments within this legislative session to raise the present maximum fines in respect of the offences under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 109) set out in (a) above from $5,000 to $50,000 and from $100,000 to $200,000 respectively.

The Government tackles the misuse of marked diesel oil through vigorous enforcement action. The Customs and Excise Department has deployed one dedicated team (comprising seven officers) to investigate the illegal import of diesel oil and illicit distribution and use of marked oil. In addition, the Department has eight patrol teams (each comprising seven officers) which devote about 25% of their time to combat the illicit sale and use of diesel oil at street level, paying special attention to illegal oil filling operations. We keep under constant review the resources deployed on enforcement work. We also encourage the public to provide information on activities involving the misuse of diesel oil through an incentive scheme which offers rewards to informers.

End/Wednesday, June 7, 1995

Medical, welfare and education services for Island District

Following is a question by the Hon Lee Wing-tat and a written reply by the Secretary for Health and Welfare. Mrs Katherine Fok, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

As the level of medical, welfare and education services provided by the Government in some areas of the Island District (such as Tai O, Lamma and Peng Chau) falls short of that enjoyed by the people in urban areas, will the Government inform this Council whether it has any plans to improve the level of such services in the Island District so as to bring it on par with that enjoyed by the people in urban areas; if so, what the details of the plans are; if not, why not?