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(b)

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To enable us to identify and implement large-scale bus-only-lane schemes, we need to study in detail their impact on the major traffic corridors and the surrounding road network and also take into account the need for other associated traffic management measures. We intend to engage consultants to carry out this study to assist us in assessing the feasibility of such schemes. If these schemes are considered practicable, we will also ask the consultants to design and implement them. Transport Department is working on a study brief and we will be seeking funding from the Finance Committee shortly. Subject to funds being made available, the study will start in August this year with a view to implementing bus-only-lane schemes during 1997 and 1998.

The Freight Transport Study was completed in June 1994. It identified key problems in the freight transport industry and recommended both short and long term measures to improve the efficiency of that industry, together with an implementation programme. Many of these have land and planning implications and need to be carefully assessed by Government. Following consultation with the freight trade and other concerned parties on the study's recommendations, a Freight Transport Strategy is now being drafted which we aim to finalise by around the middle of this year.

Supply and demand of paramedical personnel

Following is a question by Dr the Hon John Tse Wing-ling and a written reply by the Secretary for Health and Welfare, Mrs Katherine Fok, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

Regarding the supply and demand of paramedical personnel such as clinical psychologists; educational psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech therapists, will the Government inform this Council:

(a)

of the current supply and demand, as well as the projected supply and demand over the next three years, of the above-mentioned paramedical personnel in the territory; and whether the supply of such paramedical staff will be sufficient; if not, what is the shortfall;