XN000022-1997-02-27 — Page 3

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He will also know that we have proposed to take administrative measures rather than legislate in regard to discrimination on the grounds of sexual preference, he will know the proposals we have put forward regarding discrimination against those of older years, and he will also know that we are consulting the public about the very good study that has been carried out on whether or not there is discrimination in Hong Kong on the grounds of race. We haven't thought it appropriate at this time to go for legislation on each of those subjects but by and large we have, I think, gone as far as the community thought was sensible. And I am delighted the Equal Opportunities Commission has made such a good start.

As far as the police complaints machinery is concerned, the honourable gentleman will know that we are putting that on a statutory basis and that there are proposals before the Legislative Council which the Legislative Council is debating. But let me just repeat, I have said consistently that we would review all our statute book to make sure that it was in line with the International Covenants and the Bill of Rights. Even those who do not agree with me would, I think, concede that I do what I say I will do, and that remains our intention.

Mr Lee Kai-ming (in Chinese): Thank you Mr President. A question for the Governor. Will the Governor accept what is said in the letter given to the Governor a moment ago and that is a request made by the five trade unions and that is to increase the CSSA by $300 and to increase the amount even further so that the elderly people in their twilight years will be given some degree of warmth?

Governor: I was grateful for the honourable gentleman's briefing outside the Legislative Council. There were one or two of my old friends and customers there as well, but it was a particular joy to have the honourable gentleman waiting for me with a lantern and his cheery good wishes for the New Year.

I understand the concern which all members of the Legislative Council have about the living standards of the elderly. It's understandable that as Hong Kong becomes more prosperous and the scale of Hong Kong's prosperity was once again underlined in the admirable speech which my honourable friend the Financial Secretary made earlier today, I think it's understandable that people should want to ensure that the elderly share in our increasing prosperity though the elderly themselves would, I'm sure, wish us to keep a prudent control over public spending just as they have prudently managed their own finances over the years.