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FUND-RAISING FOR FLOOD VICTIMS IN CHINA
4.
Respondents were supportive
of and touched by Hong Kong's response to the fund-raising activities for the flood victims in China. They felt that the generous response showed that Hong Kong people were concerned about China and were patriotic. They were hopeful that the incident would improve relations between Hong Kong and China and would bring about greater stability to the territory. A few respondents, however, were worried that the speed with which Hong Kong was able to raise substantial funds for the flood victims would re-inforce the belief of many in China that Hong Kong was prosperous and rich and encourage more illegal immigrants to make their way here. Some respondents also considered that Hong Kong's donations should be by way of essential provisions and that some funds should be put towards the improvement of China's flood control facilities as a long term solution to the problem.
5.
There were different views on whether the Government should co-ordinate the various fund-raising activities. Some supported the idea as it would avoid confusion and minimise the likelihood of deception.
Others thought that a central co-ordinator might undermine the initiative and enthusiasm of individual organisations to assist. Furthermore, different organisations might have different uses intended for the funds raised, thereby making co-ordination very difficult.
6.
Some respondents were also dissatisfied that certain LegCo candidates and DB members had been using the pretext of raising funds for flood victim to increase their own exposure and reputation. They suggested that the SWD should be more selective in determining who should be granted permits to raise funds.
PROTEST ACTION OVER THE DENINAL OF ENTRY
TO OVERSEAS CHINESE STUDENTS
7.
let
Response was mixed towards the Government's refusal to four overseas Chinese students enter Hong Kong.
Some supported the decision of the Government. They thought that the Federation of Students was a radical body whose activities could upset the improving relations between Hong Kong and China. They did not want Hong Kong's stability and economic viability threatened by any action which would lead
unpleasant confrontation with China.
8.
other hand, over-sensitive
On the Government was incident. They claimed that explain publicly why it had
to
some respondents thought that the and had over-reacted in this the Immigration Department should refused entry to the students who possessed perfectly valid visa documents. Some also argued that Government's action was in violation of the Bill of Rights. It was furthermore illustrative of a weak administration which was giving in to pressure from China.
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