XN000022-1995-10-12 — Page 41

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Question (in Chinese): Good morning, just now I heard from the Governor that he would ensure that we have a buoyant economy. But I think, how are you going to guarantee that. I'll take the example of the Container Terminal No.9. We have known long ago that for CT9 cannot go beyond 1997 if you don't change you policies. Now even Jardines have indicated their willingness to withdraw from the project so that we could go ahead with the project as soon as possible, so that there won't be any more arguments, CT9 would create a lot of jobs for Hong Kong. Without CT9 then Hong Kong may not be able to be the world No 1 port in the world for the third or forth consecutive years. Now once we lose our clients they won't come back. We have an economic downturn, a lot of people without jobs, so why do you still want to be so stubborn on the political arguments. If Jardines is willing to withdraw and all willing to have another tender, why do you still insist on your own ideas and political system would you not be criticised by all of Hong Kong people?

Governor: It has nothing to do with my ideas on the political system and what you say about the consortium is not actually true. So the basis of your question is I think, not correct. I agree with you that we need to go on developing our port. It is extremely important. It's the biggest and most successful container port in the world and we need to develop it by ensuring that it is more competitive and that was behind our I have to say that our original decision on CT9 that it is as efficient as possible: public procurement policy are clean and above board, aren't infused with politics. We remain committed to those objectives. I hope that in the light of what was said at the Foreign Ministers' meeting last week that we'll be able to move ahead on the Container Terminal 9, because a successful port is a very important artery for our economy.

Question (in Chinese): Good morning in the Policy address there is mention of taking care of our elderly people, but you haven't actually delivered your promise, because before 1997 you are unable to put in place seventy centres for the elderly and also CSSA for elderly is only increased by 12%, why?

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