January 16, 2013

Chief Secretary Carrie Lam says the 2013 Policy Address is very comprehensive, covering all the main areas of community concern in terms of economic development, housing and land, poverty alleviation, and environmental protection.
 
She urged the media and the public to study the address and to support the Government in pursuing the policy objectives.
 
Speaking at a media session on the Policy Address at the Legislative Council Complex today, Mrs Lam said it reflects the collective efforts of not only politically appointed officials, but also all the civil servants who have been working hard in recent months to deliver plans and proposals in accordance with the guiding principles established by the Chief Executive, particularly in his manifesto.
 
“I hope many people will also rate this policy address pretty high in terms of its environmental protection determination in improving Hong Kong’s air quality, in retiring diesel commercial vehicles, and in dealing with emissions from marine vessels.
 
“It is a very comprehensive blueprint as far as protecting the environment is concerned, and it has also tackled a few longstanding problems that had been haunting Hong Kong for a while.”
 
Financial Secretary John Tsang said the Chief Executive has given a detailed account on areas of public concern in his maiden policy address, adding that with community solidarity, Hong Kong can resolve deep-seated social problems and build a better environment for the next generation.
 
He said he will provide the necessary fiscal resources for implementing the policies outlined in the Policy Address in his upcoming Budget.
 
When asked whether there will be any sweeteners or cash handouts, Mr Tsang said: “This is something we have done in the past, and it has served a clear economic purpose. We will look at the conditions and decide nearer the time.”