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(b) The principal costs associated with the VM problem which are borne by the Hong Kong Government relate to the operation of the detention centres, the provision of medical services and the orderly repatriation programme. These costs will amount to about $750 million in the current financial year. The costs in future years will depend on the pace of repatriation,

(c) The debt is owed to the Hong Kong Government by UNHCR. The UNHCR has re-affirmed their commitment to repay the debt. The United Kingdom was not a party to the 1988 Statement of Understanding.

End/Thursday, November 2, 1995

Petrol filling station safety

Following is a question by the Hon Tse Wing-ling and a written reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Peter Lai, in the Legislative Council today (Thursday):

Question:

Will the Government inform this Council of the following:

(a) how many petrol filling stations are at present located less than 50 metres away from residential buildings in the territory; and

(b) what measures does the Government have to prevent the danger being caused to the residents in the event of a an outbreak of fire at one of these petrol filling stations?

Reply:

Mr President,

(a) There are, at present, 90 petrol filling stations (PFSs) located less than 50 metres away from residential buildings in the territory.