TNAG-1729-FCO40-2442-Minutes-and-Hansards-of-the-Legislative-Council-of-Hong-Kong-1988 — Page 179

cap

COKZZUSIÓN

55.

三

In conclusion, I would like to respond to the

suggestion made by a few Members that my budget lacked a theme; that it was a book-keeper's budget and that it lacked foresight and innovation. Maybe, in somewhere as undeniably exciting as

Hong Kong, we have come too readily to expect drama as the

norm. But, it is the successful avoidance of drama that is the

essence of my strategy.

I believe that stability and

are

-

I

continuity is what Hong Kong needs in its fiscal management. consider that is both what my budget strategy is delivering and what this community wants

low and predictable tax regime,

strong reserves combined with

expenditure.

Sap

Yeap 5o.

56

S.c.

steady growth in public

Lastly, Sir, in debating this year's budget proposals a number of Members, including Miss Dunn, called for a review of

the structure and operation of our taxation system. I am

conscious of the need to ensure that the structure of our

taxation system is kept up-to-date, and that its operation remains responsive to the changing needs of our community. During the course of this debate, Members have touched upon many issues that point the way to reform. At the outset of this

le speech, I observed that what has been said will help us in our

thinking. That is one of the great benefits of this debate. thank all those Members who have spoken so helpfully.

Sir, I beg to move.

I

Question put and agreed to.

Bill read the Second time.

Bill committed to a Committee of the whole Council pursuant to Standing Order 43(1).

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