TNAG-1138-FCO40-1418-Valedictory-despatch-by-Sir-Murray-MacLehose--Governor-of-Ho-1982 — Page 2

FCO40 Hong Kong Department Records 聯邦事務部香港部檔案 All

3.

To promote economic growth we (the Hong Kong Government) had the advantage of the extraordinary combination of entrepreneur and workforce that has made Hong Kong famous; and there were well-tested principles of economic management - now widely if somewhat incorrectly known as "positive non-interventionism" - so much admired by Professor Friedman. In the particular circumstances of Hong Kong these had been shown to favour growth of the economy. But in themselves these things would not ensure either domestic contentment or international respectability for Hong Kong.

4.

So we progressively announced long term plans covering housing, secondary and tertiary education, medical services, social welfare, a social security system on the UK model of supplementary benefits (but not national insurance) and reform of labour legislation. These plans included spreading out Hong Kong into new towns outside the old urban area, and the provision of a modern network of roads and electric surface and underground trains. To these were added extensive provision for leisure, the arts, and recreation. The credibility and liveliness of the Legislative Council was improved by expanded and broader based unofficial membership, expansion of its supporting staff, and payment of allowances to members. But we also sought the interest and participation of the public and administration at lower and local levels through Mutual Aid Committees, Area Committees and finally District Boards, and elections to the latter are now taking place.

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