TNAG-0270-FCO40-306-Policy-on-housing-and-resettlement-in-Hong-Kong-1971 — Page 183

- 7

1

"It would appoar from thoso figuros that tho demand will be

satisfied during 1970 ovon taking into account the shortfall ovær 1969.

Unfortunately, most of this accommodation is unlikely to bo complotod until

the second half of 1970 which means that demand for the next few months

is unlikely to bo fully mot and that tho existing pressure on rents will

continuo. It is understood that Govorment is at present considering

lotting commercially some 50,000 square feet of spare accommodation in the

Yuen Long resettlement flatted factory.

"To sum up, although current rents are in the aggregate lower

than ronts passing for the same premises in 1964, there is in individual

casos evidence of stoop increases over rents previously reported.

"In respect of 'hard' cases, the position is that tenants faced

with demands for increases in rent may have certain rights under the Tenancy

(Notice of Termination) Ordinance. This Ordinance, which was enacted in

1962, made an important change in the general law affecting landlords and

tenants.

Tonants with normal monthly tenancies cannot be put out of their

premises on the usual one month's notice.

"Tho Ordinance applies both to domestic and business promises and

primarily to 'now' promises or buildings, that is, those built since the

war. The effect of the Ordinance is that no notice to quit, with certain

exceptions, is valid unless it is given in writing at least six months

bofore it is due to take effect. This moans that tenants of promises to

which the Ordinance applies must be given at least six months notico whore

the landlord wishes to obtain possession or hopes to obtain an increase in

rant. If the Ordinance applies to a principal tonancy, sub-tenancios are

also covered by it. Landlords and tenants needing dotailed advice on what

to do in particular cases may find it dosirable to consult a solicitor.

"A moro ....

།