TNAG-1413-FCO40-1889-Future-of-Hong-Kong-annual-report-to-Parliament-on-Hong-Kong-1985 — Page 311

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various

for

therefore been made responsible for planning the

types of group accommodation for the elderly, and ensuring that a proper integration of facilities is achieved. He will now prepare a strategic plan for meeting

shortfalls in all types of group accommodation for the

elderly.

90.

As regards infirmary beds, a firm decision has been made to fund the Sha Tin infirmary, the estimated cost of which is about $200 million, from the Special Coin Suspense Account. Consultants are expected to start design work during 1985/86 and, if all goes well, the infirmary should be completed by 1990.

91.

(ii) Public assistance scheme

The basis of our social security system is the non-contributory public assistance scheme. Although several improvements have been made in recent years, a more comprehensive review is required. Accordingly, the Secretary for Health and Welfare is now examining the scheme and, in particular, whether there is scope for consolidating the various payments available, and for increasing the amount of disregarded income for those able to supplement their assistance payments with minor earnings.

92.

(iii) Services for the Disabled

Following a review of our Rehabilitation Programme, plans have been revised to increase the number of places in schools for the mentally handicapped and half-way houses for the mentally ill. Amongst other shortfalls identified, the most serious is of speech therapists. The University and Polytechnic Grants Committee is examining the possibility of establishing a suitable course locally.

/93. I ..