TNAG-0353-FCO40-389-Reform-of-local-government-in-Hong-Kong-1972 — Page 110

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Wednesday, February 9, 1972

"However, in this connection, I would take this opportunity

to say that the Urban Council, notwithstanding the criticism made against

it, has done well in the recreation and public amenities fields, especially

in the establishment of playgrounds, the improved markets and the cultural

services. A fair achievement is made in health matters," he said.

MOTION TO ADOPT WHITE PAPER

Recognition Of Urban Council's Past Achievements

The motion to adopt the White Paper on the Urban Council is in a way

Government's recognition of the past achievements of the Urban Council.

The Hon. Wilson Wang stated this in the Legislative Council

today when he affirmed his support of the motion.

He said the motion not only proposes to grant the Urban Council

substantial financial autonomy but also to have it composed entirely of

unofficial members a recognition of which all present and past members

of the Urban Council had good reason to be proud.

"The motion in effect is one that calls for a vote of confidence

in the Urban Council," he stressed.

Mr. Wang said he hoped that the elected members of the Urban Council

would not be too disappointed in not winning the support of the appointed

members of the Urban Council nor that of his Unofficial colleagues in the

Legislative Council on the issue of an elected majority.

"I like to place my confidence in a bigger turn-up at the poll on

future election days. When this happens, none will argue against an elected

majority or indeed a fully elected membership in the Urban Council," he said.

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