4
A further consideration in this regard is that the publication of the report of the Planning Committee might be seen to oblige the Government to release also the UMELCO Ad Hoc Group's report in order to provide a balanced presentation of the amendments to the Planning Committee's proposals. This would bring out the point that the release of land for commercial/ residential development would benefit the whole of the population of Hong Kong rather than merely those who could conveniently enjoy the amenity of the area. It is, therefore, the official view that any decision to publish the Planning Committee's report should be accompanied by a decision also to publish the UMELCO Ad Hoc Group's report, which would need some editing before publication.
5
A draft press release is attached at Annex C for Members' consideration. If it is decided not to publish the Victoria Barracks Planning Committee's report and the UMELCO Ad Hoc Group's report, the final sentence would be omitted.
6
The reference to the proposals for the retention of the buildings within the area will be met by a statement that, where these are in the consultants' study area, their preservation will be considered when the consultants' proposals are in hand; but that, where they conflict with the adopted plan, they will not be preserved.
7
As, pending a decision in principle, the reports of the Planning Committee and the UMELCO Ad Hoc Group have not been translated and produced for publication, it will be necessary in the first instance to publish the different layouts prepared and a synopsis of the reports, if it is decided to publish both reports.
8
(a)
Honourable Members will be asked to advise:
whether the reports of the Victoria Barracks Planning Committee and the UMELCO Ad Hoc Group should be published as soon as possible; and
CONFIDENTIAL
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