HONG KONG STANDARD
APRIL 28TH.
MP is told what's wrong with Hongkong
VISITING Anglollongkong Parliamentary Group chairman Mr John Tilney yesterday heard an earful of criticisms and suggestions about Hongkong affairs from disgruntled Urban Councillors.
lle was also given an “eye-opener" into the sleazy aspects of corruption, drugs and the much needed recreational facilities and better environmental conditions in Hongkong.
It is understood that the Member of Parliament was unaware of these matters and expressed surprise that the Urban Councillors even had ward offices from which they get complaints from people in all walks of life.
Mr Tilney had little to offer except interest and a promise to the councillors that he will take up certain matters with the governor and his collegues in parliament.
In an hour-long meeting with 13 Urbeo members eight elected and five appointed, the rest being absent the Tory MP was asked a wide range of questions.
The Urban Councillors were interested in how the Anglo-Hongkong Parliamentary Group operates and to what extent they can influence the Butish govemment for the benefit of Hongkong.
ELECTION
As Hongkong“ education matters DIC barred from discusses at Erben meetings, because it is not with ..jansdiction of the comedi, Urbeo menLDAPS a Kou Mr Tilney
about UK practice on the control of ciucation by local authorities there.
Other matters raised included trades union, housing and recreation.
Mr Tilney was also told about the poor Urbco election turn-out because of a bmited franchise which baired most people from voting and about the council's grievance that their functions stop short In the New Territories.
Urbco chairman Mr A. de O. Sales later told the Standard that Mr Tilney, whose group in Parliament are responsible for Hongkong' affairs, was "very impressed and took a lot of notes" about the works of the Urban Council. particularly the thousands of ward cases it handled.
Mr Sales said: "We drew his attention to the fact that 8,700 recorded cases were dealt with by 10 ward offices each year.
USEFUL
Most councillors said however, despite his lack of first-hand knowledge of Hongkong, the visit was worthwhile, because a meeting like this could give British parliamentary members an insight into the latest happenings in Hongkong.
Said Mr Henry Ilu: "This is a useful visit because he can get acquainted with Hongkong's problems like the dramatic plunge of the stock market, teachers' salaries dispute Crown rent renewal, and the high cost of living.
Mr Tilney expressed regret that he could not afford more time with the councnice but he said he will advise future visi ang Mas try and meet members of the calier in their stay so as etb. to the laces. problems Lea.
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