XN000022-1997-02-26 — Page 43

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The main consideration in determining the rents of these units is the same as for other public rental housing flats, and is based on tenants' affordability. Inflation, rates, operating costs and the relative value of the estates concerned are taken into account, and rents are set at a level such that the median rent-to-income ratios for the estates concerned do not exceed 15%, in respect of the minimum space allocation standard of 5.5 square metres internal floor area per person, and 18.5% in respect of the higher space allocation standard of 7 square metres or more per person. Rent levels in the two vertical interim housing blocks represent about 7% of tenants' median incomes.

Management services provided are similar to those in other public rental housing blocks.

Maintenance staff of the Housing Department conduct regular inspections and repair work in interim housing blocks to ensure that they meet relevant safety standards, in the same way as in other public rental housing blocks.

End

Localisation of the civil service

Following is a question by the Hon Chim Pui-chung and a written reply by the Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr W K Lam, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

Will the Government inform this Council:

(a)

whether the progress of the localisation plan for senior civil servants has reached the expected target;

(b)

of the reasons why the post of Attorney General has not yet been taken up by a local officer; and

(c)

when the localisation of the Legal Department is expected to be fully accomplished?