TNAG-1618-FCO40-2226-Executive-Council-of-Hong-Kong-memoranda-and-minutes-of-meet-1987 — Page 80

XCR (87) 60

The Regulations

5

Page

It is proposed that a

that a table of

table of fees be

10

5

introduced in

the Regulations to enable costs of services to be recovered. The proposed fee levels are based on full cost recovery.

Consultation

6

Extensive consultation has taken place with the Lift and Escalator Contractors

Contractors Association during

during the drafting of the Bill. Where consistent with the aim of improving standards and procedures to enhance public safety, their suggestions have been incorporated. The Land

Land and Building Advisory Committee has endorsed the proposals.

Financial and staffing implications

7

The proposal to introduce fees will generate additional revenue of about $3.3M per annum. To collect these fees an additional Clerical Officer II (NAMS of $54,840) will be required.

Legislative timetable

8.

Subject to Members' approval of the

the introduction of the Bill into the Legislative Council the legislative timetable will be –

Publication in the Gazette

First Reading and commencement

of Second Reading debate

16 April 1987

6 May 1987

Resumption of Second Reading debate, to be notified

committee stage and Third Reading

Public reaction

9

Since the amendments proposed are in the interests of public safety, public reaction

reaction should

should be favourable. However, some owners of lifts and escalators may comment critically as they will, in future, have to bear additional cost as a a result of the levy of fees prescribed in the Regulations and the requirement to have competent and experienced personnel for carrying out maintenance work. Such criticism, would not find sympathy in the media or the public, who will be more concerned with public safety.