XN000022-1995-07-19 — Page 36

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Conclusion

In conclusion, Mr. President, the Government already accords high priority to the housing needs of the elderly in the territory. Improvements in quality will continue to be made in future. The concept of "ageing in place" (also known as "care in the community") is at the heart of the Government's approach in the provision of services to the elderly. Our aim is to enable elderly people to lead an independent and dignified life as part of the community as far as possible. I believe that we have a good track record. However, we welcome constructive suggestions from Honourable Members on future development. With these remarks, Mr President, the Administration supports the motion.

Thank you.

End/Wednesday, July 19, 1995

LI

Airport Authority Bill

:

Following is the speech by the Secretary for Economic Services, Mr Gordon Siu, at the resumption of the second reading of the Airport Authority Bill in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Mr President,

I would like to start by thanking all Members of the Bills Committee, in particular the Chairman, the Honourable Peter Wong, and the Deputy Chairman, Dr the Honourable Samuel Wong, for the expeditious yet extremely thorough examination of the Bill during these two very busy months. Without the exceptional efforts on the part of all concerned, we would not be able to resume the Second Reading debate on the Bill today, thereby ensuring that this important piece of legislation can be enacted before the end of the current session.

Between 1 June and 4 July 1995, the Bills Committee met eight times. Members sought clarification on many issues. The Administration provided five notes to clarify the issues raised by Members. We also considered Members' views very carefully with a view to incorporating as many of the suggestions as possible, as the Hon Peter Wong has said. At Committee Stage, I shall be moving a number of amendments as agreed with the Bills Committee so as to cover the following issues.

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