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the duty

Fourth, I understand that some Members are concerned that adjustment would increase the financial burden on the public. In fact, for the majority of commuters, they would not be affected at all as the bulk of the franchised bus services is exempt from fuel duty. As for taxis, PLBs and goods vehicles, fuel cost constitutes only a minor proportion of the overall operating cost and the proposed adjustment would increase the operating cost by no more than 2.5 per cent. The impact is by no means significant.

Fifth, some Menibers have expressed concern about the increase in illicit activities on the use of diesel oil and are worried that the proposed increase would widen the price differential between light diesel oil for vehicular use and marked oil, thereby fuelling illicit activities in this area. As announced in the Budget, we have strengthened the resources of the Customs and Excise Department to tackle such activities. Two additional investigation and enforcement teams will be established this year. We have also increased the penalty to enhance the deterrent effect against such activities. We expect that the situation would be under control and the proposed increase should not fuel such activities or result in a diminishing return on revenue.

Finally, I would like to emphasise the point that the Budget, as announced, has gained the support of the community and that of this Council as shown in the debate early last month. It should be accepted as a package.

For the reasons I have set out, I hope Members would support in full our proposals to increase fuel duty. Mr President, I commend this Bill in its entirety to this Council.

End

Curriculum on environmental protection

Following is a question by the Hon Choy Kan-pui and a reply by the Secretary for Education and Manpower, Mr Joseph W P Wong, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

Will the Government inform this Council whether the Education Department has devised a comprehensive curriculum on environmental protection for primary and secondary schools if so, what the contents of the curriculum are and what effects have been achieved so far; if not, why not?