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Security Wing

My colleagues in the Police Force have explained the role and functions of the Security Wing during a special close-door briefing to some Honourable Members held last Monday. I hope that Honourable Members would agree that it performs an essential service in protecting the public against threats to their safety and security that cannot be dispensed with. In addition, the work of the Security Wing is essential to enable us to meet our international obligations such as the fight against terrorism, trade in strategic goods and the protection of visitors who are at risk to personal dangers. I appreciate that some Honourable Members may still have other points to raise on Security Wing; we can, of course, continue to discuss these in the appropriate forum, such as the LegCo Security Panel in a manner which protect the necessary degree of confidentiality that such sensitive issues deserve.

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Thank you, Mr President.

Mortgage corporation vital to HK's financial system

The Secretary for Financial Services, Mr Rafael Hui, said the proposed mortgage corporation would enhance Hong Kong's status and reputation as an international financial centre.

Speaking at the Budget Debate at the Legislative Council today (Wednesday). Mr Hui said the mortgage corporation would have a major role to play in the strength and stability of the Hong Kong financial system and therefore it was desirable for the Government to take a leading role to facilitate this venture.

Following is the full text of Mr Hui's speech:

Mr President,

I will mainly speak on two issues today, namely economic forecast and the mortgage corporation.