TNAG-0507-FCO40-572-Development-of-medical-and-health-services-in-Hong-Kong-1974 — Page 81

CONFIDENTIAL 機密

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expenditure would be reduced to about $800 m. if the projects listed in paragraph 13.2 (g) - (m) are not completed by 1984.

13.4

It should be noted that, in practice, the increase in recurrent expenditure will not be uniform. There will be a sharp increase in 1975/76 as the Princess Margaret Hospital is commissioned, a lower rate for the next three years and larger annual increases from 1979/80 when the first of the major new projects is commissioned. It must be borne in mind that the implications for recurrent expenditure are as important as capital cost when decisions are taken as to when the various projects listed can be undertaken.

13.5

Any capital works programme of the magnitude suggested must take into account the economic circumstances of Hong Kong from year to year. Nevertheless, the Government is confident that it should be possible by 1984 to carry out those projects which are listed in paragraph 13.2 (a) (1). Those projects listed at paragraph 13.2 (g) (m) will be implemented as soon thereafter as economic circumstances

permit.

13.6

J

The ambitious programme which is described in this White Paper will make substantial demands upon the resources of the community. If achieved, it will provide a substantial expansion of medical and health services in the New Territories, will ensure better facilities in the urban areas and give a more effective coverage of clinics throughout Hong Kong. The ratio of beds to people, in spite of the problems arising from a fast rising population, will be maintained and, when the full programme is achieved, will be improved. All these measures should go far to provide medical services of a quantity and quality which the people of Hong Kong would like to see.

G.F. 323

CONFIDENTIAL #2