XN000022-1997-04-11 — Page 8

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"We are however concerned about speculative activities in the market. Experience around the world has shown that the value of stamps can go down as well as up. For these reasons, especially in the light of our commitment to meeting all advance orders and the dramatic increase in our printing quantities, we are advising our customers to consider their needs carefully before deciding to buy. Our customers should act rationally."

Mr Footman said "In conclusion, we have developed the above measures after listening to comments from the public, and discussions with representatives of the Democratic Party, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Association for Democracy and People's Livelihood. We believe they are a balanced set of measures, which we will continue to review and develop in the light of experience."

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Buildings Bill enhances disciplinary boards' independence

The Government intends to revise the appointment system and composition of disciplinary boards under the Buildings Ordinance to remove any perception that they are not independent or impartial.

A Government spokesman said according to the Buildings (Amendment) Bill 1997 gazetted today (Friday), the Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands would replace the Building Authority as the authority to appoint members of such boards.

"The proposed changes aim at removing any perception of unfairness arising from the dual role served by the Building Authority in relation to disciplinary proceedings against building professionals and contractors.

"They also promote the principle of self-regulation and modernise the administration of the boards," the spokesman said.

Such changes to the Buildings Ordinance are in relation to the disciplinary boards for authorised persons, registered structural engineers, registered general building contractors and registered specialist contractors.

The Building Authority or his representative will also cease to be the chairman or a member of a board under various proposed amendments.

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The Bill is expected to be introduced into the Legislative Council on April 23,