XN000022-1995-11-15 — Page 21

To improve its services to the public, the Land Registry will introduce a Document Imaging System in mid 1996. This is basically a new method of storage and retrieval of land records, whereby the memorials or registered instruments are scanned and the information recorded in them is converted into electronic images which are stored on electronic storage media such as optical disks. The information can then be speedily retrieved for viewing on screen and printing onto paper.

In order that the image record of memorials retained on the disk can be treated for all purposes as an original copy of the memorial as with the microfilm records, a new provision similar to section 29 of the Land Registration Ordinance is necessary, Amendment to section 26A(1) of the Ordinance is also required to make clear that a document purporting to be a copy, print or extract of or from an image record after certification by the Land Registrar will be admissible in evidence in court proceedings. The imaging method should also be added to the Land Registration Regulations as an additional method of recording memorials and registered instruments.

Separately, the Land Registry is launching a project to record the register cards in the urban area on microfilm. Register cards in the New Territories are also being converted into computerised records. The Register cards will serve no practical use afterwards. We therefore propose that the Land Registrar should be able to destroy or otherwise dispose of them so as to achieve savings in having to store them. Regulation 19 of the Land Registration Regulations needs to be amended to reflect this.

Under section 22 of the Land Registration Ordinance, a person can deposit at the Land Registry any deed, conveyance, power of attorney or other instrument in writing for safe custody until he requires them back again. It is uneconomical for the Land Registry to continue providing this service in view of the cost involved and the fact that safe deposit services are widely available from banks. We therefore propose that this section should be deleted but the Land Registry will keep safe custody of the deeds already deposited with it.

The main proposals of the Land Registration (Amendment) Bill 1995 are:

(a) clause 2 defines the terms "image", "image record". "imaging", "imaging

method" and "register card";

(b) clause 3 repeals section 22 of the Ordinance such that the Land Registry will not further accept deposit of any deeds or conveyances for safe custody. Notwithstanding this, the Land Registrar will continue to keep safe custody of the deeds and conveyances deposited with him until such deeds and conveyances are delivered back to the person depositing them;