XN000022-1997-01-15 — Page 23

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We propose to prohibit sex selection through human reproductive technology for non-medical reasons, for example because of a family's particular preference for one or the other sex children. Its use for medical reasons, to prevent sex-linked diseases, will be allowed subject to control. Commercial surrogacy, that is, the use of a woman who is paid to carry another couple's child, will be prohibited. Also prohibited will be trading in gametes and embryos or fetal ovarian and testicular tissues.

Having taken into account the majority of public views that the welfare of children could be best protected when they are brought up by married couples, we propose to limit generally the provision of human reproductive technology services to persons who are married to each other.

Human reproductive technology is a sensitive subject which is often complicated by ethical considerations. An Ethics Committee has therefore been set up by the Provisional Council to consider carefully the ethical aspects of human reproductive technology and make recommendations which the majority of the public finds acceptable. The Bill provides for the setting up of a statutory Ethics Committee.

Three public consultations have been conducted to gauge public views on the subject. All views expressed were carefully considered and examined by the Provisional Council and Government when drafting the Bill.

Mr President, I beg to move.

End

Insurance Companies (Amendment) Bill 1997

Following is a speech by the Secretary for Financial Services, Mr Rafael Hui, in moving the second reading of the Insurance Companies (Amendment) Bill 1997 in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Mr President,

time.

I move that the Insurance Companies (Amendment) Bill 1997 be read a second

The main objectives of the Bill are to amend the Insurance Companies Ordinance to provide regulatory concessions for captive insurance in Hong Kong and to empower the Insurance Authority to make regulations to specify professional standards to be observed by Appointed Actuaries for enhanced protection of policy holders.

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