XN000022-1995-11-29 — Page 49

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We have no directly relevant statistics relating to the rate of rent increase in the urban areas for the type of accommodation used by CSSA recipients. We publish two indices which give some indication of rent trends. Neither distinguishes between urban and non-urban areas and neither yet has firm figures for 1995. According to the Consumer Price Index (A) rent index, private housing rentals increased by 12.4% from 1993 to 1994. According to the private domestic rental index prepared by Rating and Valuation Department, rents for the smallest properties increased by 15% over the same period. We have no data on the size of flat that a family of two to three persons could rent in the urban areas with a rent allowance of $2,265. This would depend on market forces at the time and would vary greatly depending on the location and condition of the accommodation.

The maximum levels of rent allowance are reviewed and adjusted regularly to ensure that they cover the actual rent paid by all families living in public housing units and by the great majority of those living in private housing. We know that this objective was still being achieved at the end of 1994 and hence no increase over the level set in 1993 was justified at that time.

For 1995, we are reviewing the rent allowance as part of our ongoing comprehensive Review of the CSSA Scheme. Any increases arising as a result of this exercise will be implemented at the same time as other recommendations arising from the Review after it has been completed early next year.

End/Wednesday, November 29, 1995

Sex education in schools

Following is a question by Dr the Hon John Tse Wing-ling and a reply by the Secretary for Education and Manpower, Mr Joseph W P Wong, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

Will the Government inform this Council of the following: