XN000022-1996-05-08 — Page 50

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Protection to endangered plants and animals

Following is a question by the Hon Ip Kwok-him and a written reply by the Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands, Mr Bowen Leung, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

It is learnt that the Government is planning to spend $4 million on a two-year project to study ways to protect Chinese white dolphins and that it will establish a marine sanctuary for this purpose. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(a)

(b)

(c)

of the species of animals and plants which are under the protection of the Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance and their habitats in the territory;

whether it has any plans to apply for funds for the establishment of sanctuaries similar to the above for the animals and plants under the protection of the Ordinance; and

if the answer to (b) is in the negative, of the measures it will take to protect such animals and plants, and whether it will introduce legislation to prohibit construction works within the habitats of these animals and plants?

Answer:

Mr President,

(a)

The species of animals and plants protected by the Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance are listed under Schedules 1 to 3 to the Ordinance. The majority of these endangered species are found inside country parks, special areas, proposed marine parks and marine reserves as well as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).

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