TNAG-0639-FCO40-787-Construction-of-underground-railway-system-in-Hong-Kong-(Mas-1978 — Page 42

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The main argument for postponing the extension is that neither the Government nor the Corporation has proved the expected benefit of opening a Mass Transit Railway in Hong Kong. To postpone would provide an opportunity for studying the benefits, particularly in relieving surface congestion. But, for the reasons explained in paragraphs 41 and 42, it is considered that the balance of argument is strongly in favour of proceeding now.

Public relations

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Visible progress on the construction of the MIS has stimulated public interest in, and support for, the MTR project. A decision to extend the system to Tsuen Wan is likely to:

(a) increase public confidence in the system;

(b) strengthen confidence, both locally and abroad,

in the future of Hong Kong;

(c) demonstrate that the Government is taking a further practical step to alleviate our traffic and transport problems;

(d) pre-empt the inevitable public demand for mass

transit facilities in the Tsuen Wan corridor; and

(e) create an optimistic climate as far as job opportunities

are concerned,

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Publicity should draw attention to the fact that steps are being taken to meet the growing transport needs of the large scale developments under way in the Tsuen Wan, Kwai Chung, Tsing Yi and Tuen Mun areas. It should also emphasise that the extension should cause less uncertainty about the disruption which will be caused in view of experience since 1975 and of the Corporation's experience of cons- truction methods and costing. There is the further point that this extension is the most likely of any possible extensions to be profitable.

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With rising local living standards and a growing demand for improved public transport services, the extension of the MTR system will undoubtedly prove to be popular with the public. Speed, regularity comfort and convenience, which will be features of the system, are likely to be valued highly.

C.S. 166

CONFIDENTIAL

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