TNAG-0251-FCO40-287-Education-policy-of-government-of-Hong-Kong-1970 — Page 82

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current living conditions, I respectfully submit that these problems are pressing ones at the present moment.

As seen in the financial report for 1969-70, a comfortable estimated surplus rockets to the phenonmenal height of over the $300 million mark. While we are no doubt very pleased with this outcome, it is necessary that the surplus must be put to maximum use in order to fit in and promote the economy of the community. Against a backlog of favourable aspects, I am nevertheless of the humble opinion that there is a wide gap between what has been done in social welfare and what should have been achieved. In other words, the appropriations by Government over the years in social welfare for various voluntary social welfare agencies have been too meagre or insignificant. In con- sequence, these agencies have been unable to give full rein to their activities, not to mention prospects for expansion. Now that there will be a surplus sufficiently large enough, I must avail myself of this opportunity to suggest an appropriation of 25 per cent to meet the in- creasing demands for social welfare services in Hong Kong. Such grants, aids or subventions would make possible the due fulfillment of projects for expansion and improvement to the extent of meeting all needs. More necessary are appropriate measures to encourage and to promote social welfare, provided they are reasonable and within the law. Caution and stringency should have no place in this field, if the present pace of progress and harmony is to be continued and fostered. Secondly, the finance estimates should revise personal income tax with a view to increasing the allowances. This is to serve as a relief to alleviate the hardship of the public.

The cost of living in Hong Kong has been on the upward tendency, but, fortunately, wages for the working classes have turned the corner for some improvement. Although their outlay has been onerous, they have been able for the time being to make both ends meet. This applies in particular to the labouring classes and white collar employees who have been working their fingers to the bone. To lighten them of this overbearing situation, Government should review the income tax on individuals with the object of lightening their levy.

At present the finance estimates for the next fiscal year propose that the allowance for each person in a year will still be $7,000. Such has been the stipulation for many years. The living cost and condi- tions in those days are far different from those of the present. It is, therefore, necessary to revise the present allowance of $7,000 for each person yearly and raise it to $12,000 yearly, or at least to $10,000 with respect to payment of personal income tax. This is in harmony with present day realism and an effort to ease the hardship of the people. Thus, I draw the attention of Government to my two suggestions and urge their close examination with the object of adoption. Sir, I have pleasure in supporting the motion before Council.