XN000022-1996-01-24 — Page 63

(b)

Answer:

Mr President,

(a)

(b)

- 37 -

whether the Hong Kong Housing Society has adopted the hand-dug caisson method in carrying out the works; if so, whether the Government will consider requiring the Hong Kong Housing Society to adopt an alternative method in view of the inherent danger in using the hand-dug caisson method?

Staff of the Buildings Department make regular visits to monitor the progress of the slope stabilisation works at Kwun Lung Lau. Permanent remedial work in front of Block D has been largely completed. Work at the back of Block D has commenced at the end of November 1995 and is progressing on schedule. The Hong Kong Housing Society has not encountered any difficulty in the supervision of the works.

In view of the special condition of the site, hand-dug caissons have been involved in the remedial works. Approval was given after the submission of all proper safety measures by the contractor. As those parts of the works involving caissons have now been largely completed, there is little point in considering alternative construction methods. Starting from 1 February 1996, there will be a general ban of the use of hand-dug caissons under the Buildings Ordinance.

End

APIs publicising anti-drug abuse message

Following is a question by the Hon Eric Li Ka-cheung and a written reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Peter Lai, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

Will the Government inform this Council: