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(iii) the upgrading of our Vessels Traffic System by deployment of additional staff, new equipment and additional control centres. An example of this is the opening of a new marine traffic control station at Ma Wan to supervise the increasing marine traffic in this area;

(iv) the expansion of working hours of harbour patrols and the addition of more launches to patrol services. It is our target, ultimately, to provide 24-hour patrol service; and

(v) the amendment of vessel speed limits to take account of traffic level and

operational needs.

In addition to the above marine traffic management improvements, a study, taken by the Marine Department, on Risk Assessment and the Strategic Use of Hong Kong Waters is now in progress. This study will be completed within this year and should assist us to formulate future policies on the optimum use of Hong Kong waters.

End

Indoor air pollution

Following is a question by Dr the Hon John Tse Wing-ling and a reply by the Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands, Mr Bowen Leung, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

Will the Government inform this Council of the following:

(a) what are the principal indoor air pollutants commonly found in commercial buildings, factories and residential premises in Hong Kong, and what effects these pollutants have on public health;

(b) whether such buildings are designed and operated to provide sufficient outside air for each unit inside each building; if so, whether there are guidelines specifying the minimum level of fresh air to be provided, and what action will be taken if the supply of fresh air is below the specified level;