Address by the Chief Executive

The Honourable Tung Chee Hwa

at the Legislative Council meeting on 6 October 1999

Quality People

Quality Home

Positioning Hong Kong for the 21st Century

一九九九年十月六日立法會席上

行政長官董建華

施政報告

培育優秀人才

建設美好家園

Madam President,

I.    Introduction

主席女士：

甲、引言

1. In less than a hundred days, we will be entering a new century and a new millennium. Now is the time to carry forward what has been achieved and chart a new course for the future. In today's Policy Address, I shall review Hong Kong's development since the reunification and look ahead to the way forward in the next century. I hope that this will build a stronger sense of common purpose and that every one of us will join hands in building Hong Kong into a prosperous, attractive and knowledge-based, world-class city.

1. 還有不到一百天，我們就迎接新的世紀和新的一千年。這正是承前啟後、繼往開來的時候。我今天發表這份施政報告，是想同大家一起，重溫香港回歸以來的發展，展望我們跨進下一世紀的前進方向，希望加強共識，攜手把香港建成一個經濟發達、環境優美、以知識為本的世界一流大都會。

2. I would like to talk about three important subjects, namely Hong Kong's positioning, cultivating talents and building an ideal home. These topics are of direct interest to the whole community. I will also explain the SAR Government's thinking and policies regarding two subjects that we are all very concerned about, that is our future economic development and when the unemployment issue can be solved. Based on our experience over the past two years, I will also talk about subjects such as the rule of law, constitutional development, our thoughts on various reforms and the SAR Government's role in the economy.

2. 我準備講幾個重點課題，包括香港的定位、培育人才和建設美好的家園，這些都關乎市民的整體利益。另外，大家都十分關心香港今後的經濟走向，以及失業問題何時能夠紓緩，我將就此說明特區政府的分析和對策。我還會根據兩年多以來的經驗，講述我們對一些課題的立場和觀點，包括：法治、政制發展、政府推行改革的考慮依據，以及特區政府的經濟角色等等。

3. As for issues and plans in other policy areas, the Policy Secretaries will present their own detailed reports to this Council and the public over the next several days. The main elements of what they will say are set out in the 1999 Policy Objective Booklets which will be published later today, together with this Policy Address.

3. 至於其他方面的問題和行政措施，我已委託各位局長在未來數天向立法會和市民作詳細匯報；有關資料則刊載在今天與施政報告一起發表的《一九九九年施政方針》小冊子裏。

II.  Looking Back on the Past Two Years

乙、兩年回顧

4. Before I deal with the key issues, I would like to start with a review of the past two years.

4. 在討論各個重點之前，讓我為大家作一個回顧。

A.  Two Major Challenges

一、兩大挑戰

5. Responding to changing circumstances may well be the biggest challenge to any government. Over the past two years, Hong Kong has experienced two momentous changes. First, Hong Kong's reunification with the Mainland following the end of colonial rule and the practice of a high degree of autonomy under the unprecedented "One Country, Two Systems" concept. Second, the considerable readjustment to our economy triggered by the regional and even global effects of the Asian financial crisis. That these two changes took place almost simultaneously made them all the more difficult to manage.

5. 對一個政府來說，最大的考驗，在於能否駕馭客觀情勢的變化。兩年來，香港經歷了兩項巨變：一是香港由殖民統治回到祖國懷抱，在史無前例的「一國兩制」方針下實行高度自治；二是亞洲金融風暴造成了區域以至世界性的震蕩，觸發香港經濟大調整。我們幾乎是同一時間裏應付這兩大變化，因而困難倍增。

Implementing "One Country, Two Systems"

落實「一國兩制」

6. On 1 July 1997, the SAR Government came into being under the principle of "Hong Kong people running Hong Kong". On the same day, we established the Court of Final Appeal in the spirit of true judicial independence. We also formed the Provisional Legislative Council and subsequently held elections for the first Legislative Council of the SAR. The high turnout rate of voters in the election last year attests to Hong Kong people's active participation in public affairs. All these fundamental changes have taken place smoothly. At the same time, there has been no change in our economic and legal systems. People's way of life has remained much the same. Freedoms, including that of speech and of assembly, have been safeguarded. Hong Kong remains a separate customs territory which co-operates directly with the international community in areas such as protecting intellectual property rights and fighting against drugs and smuggling. We also exercise our own stringent control on the import and export of strategic commodities.

6. 九七回歸之日，我們建立了特區政府，實現「港人治港」；設立了終審法院，實現真正的司法獨立；先後組成了臨時立法會和特區首屆立法會，港人熱心參與公共事務，去年選舉時的投票率很高。這些根本變化，都在平穩中實現；原有的經濟制度和法律制度都沒有變。居民生活方式也沒有變；言論、集會等自由得到維護。香港仍然是單獨的關稅區，直接與國際社會合作，參加保護知識產權、禁毒、反走私等活動，並自行嚴格管理戰略物資進出境。

7. The trend of mass emigration in the run-up to the handover has now reversed to a flow of returnees. Moreover, last year, even at the height of the regional financial turmoil, there were over 23 000 transactions in new private residential properties and over 33 000 in subsidised flats under the Home Ownership Scheme (HOS), Tenants Purchase Scheme, Flat-for-Sale Scheme and Sandwich Class Housing Scheme. In total, people committed over $100 billion to buy their own homes here in Hong Kong. Even in the face of economic volatility, these families have cast their vote of confidence in Hong Kong's future with their assets and actions.

7. 回歸前曾出現的移民潮，現已轉為大量回流。去年，當金融風暴肆虐之際，本港有二萬三千多個新的私人住宅物業和三萬三千多個「居屋」、「租者置其屋」、「住宅發售計劃」及「夾心階層住屋計劃」單位成交，市民總共拿出了一千多億元在本地置業安居。在動蕩的經濟形勢下，這些家庭以實際行動和自己的財產，宣示對香港未來的信心。

8. Despite the fact that we have no precedent to go by, our experience in implementing the "One Country, Two Systems" concept for the past two years shows it to be a viable system full of vitality.

8. 雖然「一國兩制」沒有先例可援，我們兩年多以來的實踐，已有力地說明它的可行性和生命力。

Riding Out the Storm

抗禦金融風暴

9. The Asian financial turmoil started in Thailand on the day following our reunification celebrations. The scale and speed of its impact was much greater than expected and unmatched in the past fifty years. Although our financial regulatory regime is widely recognised to be of international standard, we were subjected to severe blows because of the inherent weaknesses in our economic structure, coupled with the fact that Hong Kong is the most open financial centre in Asia.

9. 就在我們慶祝回歸翌日，亞洲金融風暴在泰國掀起。這場風暴的速度和威力，遠超人們最初的估計，為五十年來罕見。雖然香港金融管理有公認的國際水準，但限於本身經濟結構存有弱點，加上我們是亞洲最開放的金融中心，因此難免受到嚴重衝擊。

10.        Our financial system came under immense pressure in the summer of 1998. We faced speculative attacks in local stock and foreign exchange markets. Confidence in our financial system was shaken. Under the circumstances, the SAR Government through the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) made the decisive and timely decision to enter the markets and stabilised them. The decision was widely criticised at that time. In retrospect, exceptional though it was, we made the correct move. We have since adopted a series of measures to strengthen the linked exchange rate regime and our financial system's defences. This has consolidated Hong Kong's position as an international financial centre.

10. 回想去年夏天，香港金融體系遭受強大壓力，股市和匯市同時受到衝擊，腹背受敵，人們信心動搖。在此情況下，特區政府透過金融管理局及時作出果斷的入市決定，穩定了本港金融市場。這個決定當時受到各種批評，現在回頭看，我們在非常情況下採取這罕有的行動，是做對了。經過這次金融風暴衝擊，我們採取了一連串措施，加強聯繫匯率機制，更強化了我們金融系統抗禦風險的能力。香港的國際金融中心地位因此更形穩固。

11.        In fact, before the financial turmoil took its toll, structural problems already existed in Hong Kong's economy. Years of high inflation and negative real interest rates fuelled the "bubble economy". Asset prices hit historic highs in 1997, driving up costs and seriously undermining our competitiveness. This is the reason why I said at the Ceremony to Celebrate the Establishment of the Hong Kong SAR that we had to be alert to the dangers that lay ahead, even as we enjoyed calm and prosperity. The sudden arrival of the financial turmoil only speeded up the necessary readjustment of our economy.

11. 其實，在金融風暴吹襲之前，香港經濟已存在一些結構性的問題。持續的高通脹和實質負利率，助長了「泡沫經濟」的發展；資產價格於九七年達到歷史高峰，成本上升削弱了我們的競爭力。我在特區成立慶典上講的「居安思危」，就是針對這點。突然而來的金融風暴，催生了必要的經濟調整。

B.   Relieving Hardship and Accelerating Recovery

二、紓解民困　加速復蘇

Relief Measures

紓困措施

12.        Owing to the readjustment, Hong Kong's economy has suffered a downturn. The unemployment rate has reached its highest level in more than two decades. I am deeply concerned about the hardship suffered by those affected. The SAR Government has adopted a series of measures to stimulate economic growth and ease the burden on the community. We have given rebates on salaries, profits and property taxes, as well as on rates. We have also frozen various fees and charges. In all, these reductions total over $40 billion.

12. 金融風暴觸發的調整，使香港經濟衰退，失業率上升到二十多年來的高位，部分居民生活遇到困難。我對此十分關切。特區政府採取了一系列措施刺激經濟和紓解民困：政府給市民退回部分薪俸稅、利得稅和物業稅，減免差餉，以至凍結收費，兩年來替市民減輕了四百多億元的負擔。

13.        We also took decisive action at the right time to suspend land sales for a period in a move to stabilise the property market. To spur demand in our economy and create jobs, we have pressed ahead with a number of major infrastructural projects. The total investment within five years will be $240 billion. This will stimulate economic growth and lay the foundation for our long-term development.

13. 另外，政府選擇在適當的時候，宣布暫停賣地一段時間，以穩定樓市。我們還加快推動大規模基建工程，計劃五年之內投入資金二千四百億元，以刺激經濟需求，增加就業機會，也為長遠發展打下基礎。

Economic Recovery

走出谷底

14.        Our economy is showing signs of turning the corner as the various relief measures steadily produce results and the Asian financial turmoil slowly subsides. Recently, there has been a gradual revival of consumer sentiment. Our export trade has picked up. The number of inbound tourists has been on the rise. Stock and property markets have stabilised. The Mainland's economy has been growing steadily and will continue to provide numerous business opportunities. The Asian economies have improved, with Japan recording a positive growth for two consecutive quarters. The performance of European economies, in particular Germany, is also gradually improving

14. 我們採取的連串紓困措施逐漸生效，亞洲金融風暴亦慢慢平息，香港經濟正在走出谷底。近期消費意欲日漸恢復，出口貿易額回升，訪港旅客人數持續增加，股票和物業市道亦已回穩。內地經濟持續增長，提供眾多營商機會。亞洲區內經濟已現轉機，日本錄得連續兩季正增長。歐洲，特別是德國，經濟也漸見好轉。

15.        However, in Hong Kong, real interest rates have remained on the high side. Bank credit, which has experienced negative growth over the past two years, still shows no sign of a significant rise. Economic growth in the United States remains strong, but there is concern that US interest rates are now subject to upward pressure. Moreover, some western investors still lack confidence in many of the economic reforms introduced in Asia. Nevertheless, broadly speaking, I am confident that the most trying times are behind us and that our economy will continue to pick up.

15. 不過，香港實質利率依然偏高，銀行信貸兩年來呈負增長，至今未顯著回升。美國經濟增長雖仍強勁，但利率有上升壓力，存有隱憂。部分西方投資者對亞洲多數經濟體系的改革，仍缺乏信心。但是，整體來說，最困難的時期已經過去，香港經濟可望繼續復蘇。

16.        Our implementation of the "One Country, Two Systems" concept for the past two years has laid a sound foundation for the Hong Kong SAR's future development. We have kept our economic framework intact and consolidated Hong Kong's position as a financial centre in the face of the Asian financial turmoil. Overcoming the challenges faced in the past two years has not been easy. It has only been possible because of the perseverance, initiative and pragmatism shown by Hong Kong people and the ample trust and full support shown by our country.

16. 回顧過去兩年，我們全面落實了「一國兩制」，為特區的發展奠下良好基礎。我們在亞洲金融風暴吹襲下，維護了香港經濟體系的完整，鞏固了香港的金融中心地位。這些都得來不易。成功原因，在於港人能沉着應變、積極務實，也在於國家的充分信任和支持。

C.  Medium to Long Range Initiatives

三、中長期工作

17.        You may recall that in my first Policy Address, I put forward the SAR Government's thinking on Hong Kong's future development. I also laid down a number of targets. For the past two years, Government bureaux and departments have been actively pushing ahead with initiatives. I would like to focus on several major areas.

17. 相信大家記得，我在上任後第一個施政報告裏，提出特區政府發展香港的思路和一系列目標。兩年來，政府各決策局和部門積極推行工作。我在此談幾個較重要的領域。

Investing in Education

投資教育

18.        Education is fundamental to the future of Hong Kong. Starting from my first public speech when I took office, I have stressed repeatedly that education is a key policy area. We have made progress in many areas over the past two years. I will give a full account of our strategy for education later.

18. 教育主宰香港未來。從我上任後首次公開講話起，我就不斷強調：教育是我們的施政重點。兩年來我們在多方面取得了進展，稍後我會全面闡述教育工作的策略。

Caring for the Elderly

照顧長者

19.        Care for the elderly was announced as one of my top priorities when I took office. We have a duty to give the elderly a sense of security, of belonging and of worthiness. Since its establishment, the Elderly Commission has dealt with many major issues. In response to its recommendations, the Government has pledged to provide 30 000 public rental flats for the elderly by the end of 2002. So far we have provided around 10 000 flats, a rate of progress in line with our target. Over the past 18 months, there has been an increase of 3 500 subsidised residential care places for the elderly, which has helped to reduce waiting time considerably. The service quality of private homes for the elderly has been improved over the past two years through the licensing system. In addition, multi-service centres and the home help service have been improved. Many elderly persons have attended literacy classes, computer classes and other interest group activities. Moreover, 6 000 elderly people have joined voluntary services. The Commission is now conducting a study on the quality of life of the elderly, so as to assess the demand for various services from the perspective of the elderly. To commemorate this being the International Year of Older Persons, hundreds of activities to promote respect and care for the elderly are being organised with Government support. At the end of next year, we will implement the Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme, a key initiative to provide retirement protection for the elderly in Hong Kong.

19. 照顧長者，是我上任之初便提出的要務。我們必須做到「老有所養、老有所屬、老有所為」。安老事務委員會成立以來，已處理多項重要問題。因應委員會的建議，政府承諾在二零零二年年底前為長者提供三萬個公屋租住單位，至今已提供約一萬個單位，進展符合我們的預期。過去十八個月，新增加的各類受資助安老院宿位達三千五百個，輪候入住的時間大為縮短。兩年來，通過實施發牌制度，一般私營安老院的服務質素也有提高。長者綜合服務中心和家務助理服務也得到加強。為數眾多的高齡人士參加了識字班、電腦班等各類興趣活動，六千位長者加入了志願服務小組。安老事務委員會正就長者的生活質素進行研究，從長者的角度來衡量各種服務需求。今年是國際長者年，政府推動幾百項活動，以宣揚敬老愛老。明年年底，我們將實行強制性公積金計劃，這是實現退休保障的重要措施。

Meeting Housing Needs

幫助安居

20.        I pledged right from the beginning of my tenure that I would do my best to address the housing problem of low income families. Despite the adverse economic conditions over the past two years, we have provided low-cost public rental housing to 73 000 families. The waiting time for public rental flats has been reduced from seven to six years on average. I am confident that we should be able to achieve our pledge of further reducing this to three years by the end of the 2005-2006 financial year. Enabling more families to own their own homes is another pledge. Over the past two years, we have helped over 100 000 families fulfil their wish of purchasing their own flats through various home ownership schemes. This is a significant figure.

20. 我從上任開始就表示要盡力解決低收入市民的居住問題。雖然我們處於經濟逆境，但在過去兩年，仍為七萬三千個家庭提供了廉租公屋。輪候公屋的時間從平均七年縮短到六年。我們有把握實現先前的承諾，到二零零六年三月底時，將輪候時間縮短為平均三年。讓本港更多家庭自置居所，是我們的另一個承諾。在過去兩年，循着這方向，政府通過各種計劃，幫助了十萬多個家庭實現置業安居的心願，這是一個很可觀的數目。

21.        In the past two years, the SAR Government has established a land bank which now plays an important role in stabilising our property market. We have developed a highly transparent land disposal mechanism. This enables us to respond flexibly to short-term fluctuations in market demand, and to prevent sharp rises and falls in property prices from affecting people's livelihood. I am aware of the heavy financial burden on those citizens whose properties have become negative assets because of the financial turmoil. The Government clearly understands that the real estate sector remains a pillar of the economy. For most people in Hong Kong, a home is more than a place to live. It represents the most important investment in their lives.

21. 特區政府兩年來建立了土地儲備，對於穩定物業市場具有重要意義。我們制定了一套高透明度的批售土地制度，可靈活應付市場短期需求的波動，避免樓價大起大落影響民生。在金融風暴衝擊下，部分市民的物業變成負資產，財政負擔沉重，我深明他們的困境。政府清楚了解，房地產始終是香港的經濟支柱之一，不僅關乎市民的安居問題，也是一般人一生最重要的投資。

D.  Expanding the Economic Base and Promoting Employment

四、擴闊根基 幫助就業

22.        The SAR Government is deeply concerned about the employment problems faced by our citizens. Ever since the unemployment rate surged as a result of the financial turmoil, we have been working closely with the business and labour sectors in an attempt to increase job opportunities.

22. 特區政府十分關注廣大市民的就業問題。金融風暴引致失業率上升後，政府不斷與企業界和勞工界代表共同商討，設法增加就業機會。

Supporting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

支持中小企業

23.        Most Hong Kong companies are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). They form the most dynamic sector of our economy and provide many job opportunities. They were hit hard by the financial turmoil. Many faced cash flow problems because of the credit squeeze. Last summer, the Government launched the $2.5 billion Special Finance Scheme for Small and Medium Enterprises, to help alleviate their difficulties. This was a special measure taken because of the severe circumstances caused by the financial turmoil. It has helped over 5 000 SMEs, and has enabled them to retain staff or reduce the number of workers having to be laid off. As our economy has only just turned for the better, some SMEs still have to overcome liquidity problems. Although we do not intend to inject more money into the Finance Scheme, we have decided to double the amount of guarantee for loans provided under the Scheme. We will also review the terms and conditions of the Scheme.

23. 香港大多數企業都是中小型的，它們是經濟中最具活力的組成部分，僱員眾多。在金融風暴衝擊下，信貸急劇收縮，許多中小企業周轉困難。去年夏天，政府推出二十五億元的中小企業特別信貸計劃，幫助緩解中小企業的困境。這是因應金融風暴的嚴峻情況而採取的一項特殊措施。這個計劃幫助了五千多家中小企業應付困難，減少裁員，或者維持原有人手。目前經濟剛開始好轉，而一部分中小企業頭寸仍然緊絀，雖然我們不打算為這信貸計劃注入新資金，但決定將原來撥款的可擔保貸款額提高一倍。同時，我們會檢討這計劃的實施條款。

24.        Loan guarantees by the Government can only be a short-term measure. In the longer term, we must consider more effective means to ensure that supporting services by relevant institutions meet the needs of SMEs. More importantly, a business-friendly environment should be created for new ventures. In particular, we should try to make it easier for these enterprises to secure finance for their business. This needs the banking sector to put more emphasis on the track record and business prospects of the borrowing enterprises in granting loans, instead of following the general practice of taking property as the main form of collateral.

24. 由政府提供信貸擔保，只是短期的措施。長遠而言，要支持中小企業發展，就需要研究更有效的辦法，使各有關機構提供的輔助服務，能夠真正切合中小企業的需要。更重要的，是營造一個有利於創業的環境，特別是要解決中小企業的融資問題。這需要香港銀行界改變貸款一貫的做法，在處理貸款時，由以物業抵押為主改為更多考慮企業的業績和盈利前景。

Training People for Jobs

培訓就業

25.        Last year, the Labour Department set up the Job Vacancy Processing Centre. The Centre's computerised system has provided information on 12 000 vacancies every month and helped an average of more than 4 000 people per month to secure jobs.

25. 勞工處去年成立了職位空缺處理中心，近期每月透過電腦提供約一萬二千個職位空缺的資料，平均每月為四千多人找到工作。

26.        Despite our high unemployment rate, some jobs remain vacant. In view of this mismatch between demand and supply in the labour market, the Government has been providing training and retraining opportunities for the labour force. In the year 1998-99, the Employees Retraining Board (ERB) retrained nearly 70 000 people, with their re-employment rate reaching 70%. They were trained as information technology assistants, security guards, property attendants, domestic helpers and health care assistants, etc.

26. 儘管失業率高企，但仍有職位空缺未有合適人手填補。針對這種勞力供求錯配，政府積極提供培訓和再培訓機會。僱員再培訓局單在一九九八至九九年度便培訓了近七萬名學員，再就業的學員達到七成。培訓的工種包括資訊科技助理、保安員、物業管理員、家務助理和健康服務助理等。

27.        Among the unemployed, about 20 000 are young people between the age of 15 and 19. They account for more than 25% of those employed or seeking work in this age group. This is of deep concern to the Government. Under an ideal education system, these young people should be able to continue with their studies. But in the current circumstances, we must take their unemployment problem seriously. The Vocational Training Council has launched two new courses which include English and Information Technology skills to provide about 4 000 new places for Form 3 and Form 5 school leavers. These courses will equip young people for employment or further studies. Recently, the Government has also launched the Youth Pre-employment Training Programme. Many organisations and companies have supported the Programme, which is well received by the trainees. We will conduct a full assessment of the operation of the Programme. If the results are satisfactory and resources are available, we will consider adopting it as a medium or long-term measure.

27. 待業人士當中，約兩萬名是十五至十九歲的青少年，佔這一年齡組別的勞動人口多於四分之一，政府對此深切關注。在理想的教育體制裏，這些青年應該仍在求學。但在目前條件下，我們得重視這批青年的就業問題。職業訓練局已推出兩項新的課程，內容包括英文和資訊技能等，分別為中三和中五畢業生提供約共四千個新學額，這些課程有助青少年求職或繼續進修。此外，政府近期推動「展翅計劃」，為青年提供職前培訓，已得到多個團體和企業響應，更受到學員普遍歡迎。我們將全面評估這項計劃的實行情況，如果成效顯著，資源許可的話，會考慮把它訂為中長期的措施。

28.        Those who have been badly affected by the economic downturn have my sympathy. I know that many people, though in full employment, have earned less since the financial turmoil began. Despite falling prices and concessions on Government fees and charges, they are still suffering from a reduction in net income. For the unemployed and under-employed, life is even more difficult. I know that Hong Kong people are accustomed to working hard and earning their own living, and do not like to depend on public assistance. But for those who face severe hardship in the economic downturn, their last resort is the safety net provided by the Government.

28. 對於受經濟不景氣嚴重影響的人，我深感同情。我知道，自金融風暴發生以來，不少人即使能夠保持全職工作，收入卻已減少，雖然物價下跌，政府也減免了多種收費，仍難以彌補他們的入息損失。至於失業及就業不足者，生活就更為困苦。我知道香港人一向勤奮向上、慣於自食其力，不喜歡倚賴社會支援，但對在惡劣的經濟環境中遇到嚴重困難的人，最後保障就是政府提供的社會安全網。

29.        Hong Kong's economy is improving. I believe that the high unemployment rate caused by the Asian financial turmoil will come down gradually in due course. In the long run, however, we need to develop Hong Kong into a knowledge-based economy. If there are more education and training opportunities for people to better equip themselves with knowledge and skills, their ability to find jobs will be enhanced and their living standards improved. I am sure that Hong Kong people, who are adaptable, enterprising and energetic, will be able to scale new heights.

29. 目前香港整體經濟環境開始好轉，金融風暴導致的失業率上升，相信稍後會逐步回落。長遠來說，香港需要發展知識為本的經濟。市民如果有更多機會接受教育和培訓，提升知識和技能，當可改善就業機會和生活條件。香港人聰明靈巧、善於開拓、勇於拼搏，一定可以再登上新的台階。

Investing in Infrastructure

投資基建

30.        During the past two years, we have launched a series of major infrastructural projects. They include the KCR West Rail Phase I, the MTR Tseung Kwan O Extension, and the expansion of boundary crossing facilities at Lok Ma Chau. Projects that will be launched shortly include the KCR East Rail Extensions to Ma On Shan, Tsim Sha Tsui and Lok Ma Chau, and the Science Park at Pak Shek Kok. An estimated total of 46 000 jobs will be created in the next fifteen months as a result of these major infrastructural projects and other Public Works Programme items. Plans are also in hand for the next phase of infrastructural investment. Projects that are expected to commence later include Routes 7, 9 and 10, the Central-Wan Chai Bypass and the South East Kowloon Development Scheme. A total of over $240 billion will be invested in these projects within five years, an amount exceeding the total investment in the Airport Core Programme. In addition, the Second Railway Development Study, which will be completed by the end of this year, will make recommendations on the feasibility and proposed timing of the construction of a fourth cross-harbour rail link, the East Kowloon Line, a second rail connection from Tai Wai to Kowloon, the North Hong Kong Island Line and the West Hong Kong Island Line. These projects will provide Hong Kong with a well planned and environmentally-friendly transport network as well as other basic facilities.

 

30. 兩年來，我們開展了一系列重大基建設施工程，包括九廣鐵路西鐵第一期、地下鐵路將軍澳支線、擴建落馬洲邊界通道設施。短期內進行的工程包括九廣鐵路馬鞍山支線、尖沙咀支線、落馬洲支線及白石角的科學園等。陸續展開的大規模基建工程，以及各種工務計劃，估計在未來十五個月內可創造就業機會四萬六千個。我們還為下一步的基建投資進行了規劃，這些預計在稍後展開的工程項目，包括七號、九號及十號幹線，中環灣仔繞道，東南九龍發展等。五年內各項工程投資總額達二千四百億元，超過了整個新機場核心工程計劃的總投資。另外，今年年底完成的第二次鐵路發展研究，將提出關於一系列工程的可行性數據和建議時間表，包括第四條過海鐵路、東九龍線、大圍至九龍的第二條連接線、北港島線和西港島線。這些發展計劃，將為香港提供完善和符合環保要求的運輸網絡和其他基本設施。

Air Cargo Hub

航空貨運樞紐

31.        The new airport is one of our major infrastructural achievements. Our international air cargo throughput already ranks among the highest in the world. We are in a position to expand the market by taking advantage of the advanced facilities of our new airport to provide diversified freight services for clients from a more extensive area. To this end, we will implement a liberal policy for air cargo services so as to further develop Hong Kong into an international and regional air cargo hub. This, in turn, will create more jobs in the supporting service industries. A number of leading international air cargo carriers have expressed interest in expanding their operations in Hong Kong.

31. 新機場是本港大型基建的一項成就。香港的國際空運載貨量，已居於世界前列。我們可以利用新機場的先進設施，為更廣泛地區的客戶提供多元化的貨運服務，開拓更大的市場。為此，我們在航空貨運服務方面，會推行開放政策，使香港進一步發展成為國際及區域航空貨運的中樞。這可以為各種輔助服務行業增加職位。多家主要的國際空運公司已表示有興趣在香港加強發展。

Promoting Tourism

促進旅遊

32.        Tourism is a major driving force behind Hong Kong's economic development, and can directly or indirectly create a large number of jobs. To strengthen the co-ordination of the tourism industry, the Government has appointed the first Commissioner for Tourism. We are also reviewing our strategy on the development of tourism and encouraging better co-operation among the various parties. We have announced a series of schemes concerning new tourist attractions, which we are now implementing in stages. Regarding the development of an international theme park at Penny's Bay on North Lantau, we continue to make good progress in our negotiations with the Walt Disney Company. Our common target is to complete the negotiations before the end of October.

32. 旅遊業是香港經濟發展的重要原動力，並能直接或間接提供大量就業機會。政府為加強統籌工作，委任了首位旅遊事務專員，並對旅遊發展策略進行檢討，鼓勵各方配合，全面加強工作。在增加旅遊設施方面，政府已宣布了一連串計劃並正在逐步落實。我們與迪士尼公司就可能在大嶼山北部竹篙灣興建國際主題公園的商談進展良好。雙方的目標是於本年十月三十一日前完成商談。

Promoting Innovation and Technology

推動創新和科技

33.        Innovation and technology are the major driving forces of economic growth. The Government is now implementing the recommendations detailed in the two reports submitted by the Commission on Innovation and Technology, chaired by Professor Tien Chang Lin. They include the setting up of the $5 billion Innovation and Technology Fund; an investment of over $2 billion in the coming ten years for establishing the Applied Science and Technology Research Institute which will focus on mid-stream research; the setting up of a high-level co-ordination framework and standing advisory committee; and the admission of people whose technological expertise we need. Local businesses have responded positively by putting forward proposals, such as the Cyberport and other projects involving innovation and technology. Overseas investors have also indicated their strong interest in such endeavours. Before the end of the year, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange will launch the Growth Enterprise Market which will serve as a new capital-raising channel for innovation and technology ventures.

33. 創新與科技是促進經濟增長的主要動力。由田長霖教授任主席的創新科技委員會先後提交了兩份報告，所作建議，政府已逐步落實，包括：撥款五十億元設立創新及科技基金、在未來十年投資超過二十億元成立專注「中游」研究的應用科技研究院、成立高層統籌架構和常設諮詢組織，以及積極輸入必要的科技專才。本港企業界也積極響應，陸續提出了數碼港和其他創新及科技計劃，同時，海外投資者也表示濃厚興趣。今年年底前，香港聯合交易所將推出名為「創業板」的第二板股票市場，這可以為創新與科技企業增加融資渠道。

Changes in Mindset

觀念更新

34.        People from various sectors have told me that the speculative atmosphere created by the formerly prevalent "bubble economy" had seriously undermined people's work ethics and attitudes towards learning. Today, due to the efforts of the SAR Government and many who care for the future, more and more entrepreneurs and citizens have come to support a view that I have repeatedly emphasised: to put Hong Kong back on the road to prosperity, we must widen our economic base and promote wider application of innovation and technology in order to add value to our products and services. It is now generally realised that economic growth cannot come from excessive reliance on asset inflation. Instead, people have begun to recognise the importance of innovation and technology, and we have witnessed a gratifying change in the community's mindset, which in itself marks a possible turn for the better. I am sure that our economy will scale new heights when learning, pragmatism and creativity prevail. This is the reason for my optimism for the future of Hong Kong.

34. 很多不同行業的人士曾對我說，過去「泡沫經濟」熾熱時，投機風氣嚴重影響人們的工作和學習態度。如今，經過政府和有心人兩年來的推動，愈來愈多企業家和市民都認同我不斷強調的一點：香港要再創繁榮，必須有更廣闊的經濟基礎，更多利用科技和創意，提高本港產品與服務的價值。從領悟到經濟增長不能過分倚靠資產價格膨脹，到確認創新與科技的重要性，社會觀念有了可喜的變化，也為香港帶來重要的轉機。當社會上求知、務實和創新的活動日趨普及，蔚然成風之時，就是香港經濟再創高峰之日。這正是我對香港未來感到樂觀的原因。

E.   Summing Up

五、小結

35.        In the past two years, we have faced together the hardships brought about by the Asian financial crisis. The worst is now behind us. The SAR Government has delivered on its pledges. I believe that given the spirit of close co-operation that exists between the Government and the community, we can all look forward to the start of the new century with confidence.

35. 在過去兩年的經濟逆境中，特區政府與市民共度時艱。如今，局面已開始好轉。特區政府所作的承諾，亦已陸續兌現。在市民和政府通力合作下，我們可以滿懷信心，迎接新世紀的來臨。

III.        Clear Positioning

丙、明確定位

A.  Long-term Strategy

一、長遠策略

36.        The SAR Government, while carrying out its daily business, has at the same time undertaken long-term planning for Hong Kong. The Executive Council and various policy bureaux have taken the initiative to explore the way forward. The Commission on Strategic Development, which was established early last year, studied trends of global and regional development, assessed different scenarios and provided valuable input for the formulation of long-term policies. It will issue a report on the study by the end of this year.

36. 特區政府在處理日常事務的同時，一直為香港作長遠籌劃。特區行政會議和政府各決策局都積極探索香港的未來路向。去年年初成立的策略發展委員會，研究了全球和區域發展趨勢，評估了各種可能出現的情況，為釐定長遠策略提供了寶貴資料。委員會的研究報告將於年底前發表。

37.        Hong Kong's reunification with the motherland has removed the problem of limited planning horizons. We are now able to start thinking long-term. Moreover, given that Hong Kong's external and internal circumstances have changed so much in recent years, long-term strategies have become essential.

37. 香港回歸祖國，我們不再受到時限問題困擾，可着手規劃長遠發展。另一方面，這些年來，香港面對的大環境和自身條件均已發生巨變，面對新情況，規劃長遠發展，更為必要。

B.   Three Momentous Changes

二、三大轉變

38.        As I have pointed out earlier, we have successfully dealt with two major challenges over the past two years. Now, as we move towards a new era, we are faced with three momentous changes. First, the world's economy is becoming more globalised as a result of free trade and advances in information technology. Second, our country's success in reform and the implementation of open-door policies in the last two decades has brought about changes in the economic relationship between Hong Kong and the Mainland. Third, Hong Kong's economy is now undergoing another round of economic restructuring. New challenges and opportunities are emerging. Let me outline these three changes.

38. 我剛才講了過去兩年間，我們已經成功應付了兩大挑戰。現在，我們正走向一個嶄新的時代，面對着三大轉變：首先，由於貿易自由化和資訊科技興起，全球經濟日益一體化。第二，我國二十年改革開放，令香港與內地的經濟關係產生變化。第三，香港內部經濟結構再度轉型，出現新的挑戰和契機。現在逐點和大家談談。

Globalisation of the World's Economy

全球經濟一體化

39.        International trade has become increasingly open in the past 50 years. The conclusion of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade and the subsequent establishment of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) reflect the progressive removal of trade barriers relating to goods and services. Technological advances in communications and transportation have drastically reduced the distance between markets. Transaction procedures have been streamlined. Suppliers from all corners of the world now engage in keener and more direct competition. We will be able to compete in the world market successfully only if we can provide a wide range of high quality, innovative and technologically sophisticated products and services, and have good access to information.

39. 半個世紀以來，國際貿易秩序日趨開放，由達成「關稅與貿易總協定」到建立「世界貿易組織」，標誌着從商品到服務的貿易壁壘消失，加上通訊和運輸技術發達，市場之間的距離大大縮短，交易方式也發生變化，減少了中介環節。處於世界不同角落的供應者短兵相接，競爭更為激烈。只要我們的產品和服務具有較高的技術水平，新穎質優，再加上掌握靈通的資訊，則全世界都是我們的市場。

Rapid Economic Development on the Mainland

內地發展迅速

40.        Two decades of rapid economic growth on the Mainland have continued to narrow the gap between Hong Kong and the key cities there. The Mainland has a wealth of talented people. Their knowledge and capabilities in many areas have advanced rapidly as a result of extensive international exposure in recent years. Their diligence and frugal lifestyle also give them a competitive edge. Unless we consciously improve, our lead will disappear. We are faced with great challenges. But we are also seeing great opportunities. According to the World Bank, China's gross national product currently ranks 7th in the world, and will rise to 2nd or 3rd place by 2020, with an enormous cumulative growth in the interim. Nothing can stop China's advance. If Hong Kong can play an active part in the process, not only will we make a contribution to our country, but we will also benefit.

40. 我國經濟二十年來高速發展，一些主要城市與香港的差距已愈來愈小。內地人才濟濟，近年來通過國際交流，知識和能力提升很快，加上刻苦樸實，更有利於競爭。香港過去的一些優勢，如果不努力提升，很快便不足恃。因此，我們面對很大的挑戰。但同時，眼前又有眾多的機遇。據世界銀行公布的資料，我國國民生產總值在世界排名第七位；到二零二零年，將提升至第二或第三位，其間經濟的累積增長將十分巨大。中國的崛起勢不可擋。香港若能積極參與這一過程，當可對國家作出貢獻並大為受惠。

Economic Restructuring

經濟轉型

41.        With the bursting of the asset price bubbles in some Asian economies during the financial turmoil, competition in the region has intensified. Hong Kong cannot count on a recovery led by asset inflation. Also, some labour-intensive service industries have followed the lead of the manufacturing sector and moved to the Mainland or overseas. These together with globalisation and the development of the Mainland's economy, are leading to another phase of economic restructuring for Hong Kong. Operating costs in Hong Kong have now lowered, and many firms have implemented internal restructuring to enhance productivity. But we must develop and strengthen our advantages further, turn increasingly to innovative, knowledge-intensive economic activities, make the best use of information technology, reduce our costs further to enhance our competitiveness, and restructure our economy in the most advantageous direction. Failing that, we will lose out to our competitors and go into decline. The Government is acutely aware of the competitiveness issue, and everything that it does in the economic sphere is intended to improve our competitiveness.

41. 金融風暴發生以來，亞洲各地資產「泡沫」爆破，區內競爭趨烈，香港難以再靠資產價格暴升帶動經濟復蘇。另一方面，本地一些勞力密集的服務行業，也追隨製造業遷移內地或海外。加上全球經濟一體化，以及內地經濟的發展，香港經濟結構面臨再度轉型。現時本地一般經營成本有所下調，許多企業也自行重整架構，提高效率。我們必須發掘和強化自己的優勢，提高知識密集的經濟活動在本地生產總值中的比重，利用資訊科技和各種新發明，充分降低成本，加強競爭力，朝最有利的方向轉型，否則便會在激烈的競爭中處於下風，面對衰落的命運。特區政府充分意識到競爭力的重要性，故在經濟環節所做的眾多工作，可說無一不是為了提高香港的競爭力。

42.        Many cities in the Asia-Pacific region are growing very quickly and catching up fast. We cannot continue to rely on past strengths. The current situation calls for urgency in action. We must stay alert, grasp opportunities and respond positively. We must face the new reality: Hong Kong must position itself firmly and clearly in the global economy.

42. 亞太地區有不少城市都發展得很快，正在迅速趕上來。形勢迫人，競爭激烈，我們必須警覺，把握時機，奮發圖強。沉迷於過去的成功，不可能讓我們有美好將來。面對新的現實，香港必須堅定、明確地定位。

C.  A World-class City

三、世界級大都會

43.        I have on many occasions during the past two years spelled out our long term developmental objectives, the purpose of which was to establish a clear positioning for Hong Kong. Drawing upon the advice of the Commission on Strategic Development, I said in last year's Policy Address that I firmly believed that Hong Kong should not only be a major Chinese city, but could become the most cosmopolitan city in Asia, enjoying a status comparable to that of New York in North America and London in Europe. Both New York and London are cosmopolitan cities with great depth of talent in culture, technology and education. They are vibrant economies and possess the financial strength to serve the region and the world at large in areas such as finance, trade, tourism, information industry and transport, while being home to numerous multi-national enterprises. Their solid economic foundation has made it possible for their people to enjoy a relatively high average income.

43. 我兩年來多次講到政府的長遠目標，就是要為香港明確定位。去年，我聽取了策略發展委員會的意見後，在施政報告裏認定香港將來不但是中國主要城市，更可成為亞洲首要國際都會，享有類似美洲的紐約和歐洲的倫敦那樣的重要地位。紐約和倫敦這兩個大都會匯聚眾多的文化科教人才，經濟活動蓬勃，財力雄厚，能向廣大地區以至全世界提供金融、貿易、旅遊、資訊、運輸等服務，是眾多跨國企業總部所在地，擁有強大的經濟基礎，所以市民享有較高的平均收入。

44.        Hong Kong already possesses many of the key features common to New York and London. For example, we are already an international centre of finance and a popular tourist destination, and hold leading positions in trade and transportation. These are all pillars of our economy. If we can consolidate our existing economic pillars and continue to build on our strengths, we should be able to become world-class. Then, like New York and London, we will play a pivotal role in the global economy, be home to a host of multi-national companies and provide services to the entire region.

44. 和這兩大城市相比，香港已相當程度上具備了很多類似的基礎條件，例如，我們是國際金融中心，也是旅遊勝地。在貿易和運輸方面，我們在國際處於領先的地位。這些都是我們的經濟支柱。只要我們鞏固和加強已有的經濟支柱，擴大領先優勢，香港應當可以在這些領域中，保持甚至進一步確立在世界上舉足輕重的地位。屆時，香港作為世界級都會，將和紐約、倫敦一樣，在全球一體化的經濟中，發揮重要的樞紐功能，成為跨國集團總部的集結地，為廣大地區服務。

45.        On the other hand, we must admit that Hong Kong lags behind other international world-class cities in many respects, in particular human capital and living environment. However, we should not forget our unique advantages. We have the thriving Mainland next to us. We are a melting pot for Chinese and Western cultures. We are a highly liberal and open society. Our institutions are well established. With such a strong foundation, we should be able to build on our strengths and develop modern and knowledge-intensive industries, erect new pillars in our economy and open up new and better prospects.

45. 另一方面，我們也應該承認，香港與世界級的大都會相比，仍有一段差距，尤其在人才和生活環境等方面。但香港也具有一些獨特的優勢：我們背靠發展蓬勃的祖國內地，是中西多元文化的交匯點，社會高度自由開放，又具有較完備的各種體制，我們定可以在原有優勢和基礎上，發展出各種先進的、知識密集的行業，樹立新的經濟支柱，增強實力，為香港再繪宏圖。

D.  Unique Advantages

四、獨特優勢

Strengthening Ties with the Mainland

加強與內地聯繫

46.        Our economic link with the Mainland is our greatest advantage in developing Hong Kong into a world-class city. China's vigorous economic growth and intensification of reforms offer us new opportunities. Like the manufacturing industries, which moved their production to China in the 1980's, the local service sector has started extending into the Mainland's economy in various forms, creating yet another win-win situation. There is huge potential for co-operation in the commercialisation of new and high-tech innovations, as well as in the development of new industries such as Chinese medicine. The symbiotic relationship between Hong Kong and the Mainland is expected to gain momentum with the admission of China to the WTO. As services are one of Hong Kong's strengths, we can break new ground and work with the Mainland in the development of her export-oriented industries, and in the use of information technology for establishing new modes of business and industrial operations.

46. 支持香港朝着世界級都會方向發展的最大優勢，莫過於我們與祖國內地的經濟聯繫。國家經濟蓬勃發展，改革深化，為我們帶來新機會。繼八十年代香港製造業進入內地之後，香港的服務業亦開始以各種形式進入內地經濟體系，創造新的雙贏局面。至於高新科技成果的商品化，以及開發中醫中藥新產業等方面，兩地合作的潛力很大。當我國加入「世貿」之後，香港與內地合作的發展勢頭料將加強，尤其是在作為香港強項的服務業方面。香港可以與內地一同發展出口導向產業，採用資訊科技，建立營運新模式，從而使經濟合作進入新境界。

47.        To support such long-term economic co-operation, an inter-departmental group chaired by the Financial Secretary has been set up to liaise with relevant Central Government authorities and experts on matters related to China's admission to the WTO. Its purpose is to get acquainted with the progress of, and the arrangements for, the opening up of the Mainland market. The group also maintains contact with local business and professional bodies so that they too can better understand the opening-up process and more readily assess market trends. This will enable them to capitalise on business opportunities. Additionally, the State Council's Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Co-operation and the SAR Government's Trade and Industry Bureau have agreed to set up a joint committee to strengthen communication on economic and trade issues.

47. 為了支持這方面的長遠發展，財政司司長主持的一個跨部門小組，就我國加入「世貿」一事與中央有關部門和專家溝通，了解未來開放市場的具體安排和進程，並與本港工商、專業團體保持接觸，讓業界及時了解內地擴大開放的政策、步伐和範疇，更準確地評估市場，把握商機。另外，國務院對外貿易經濟合作部與特區工商局已同意設立「內地與香港特別行政區商貿聯繫委員會」，加強經貿事宜的溝通。

Joint Development of the Pearl River Delta Region

協同發展珠江三角洲

48.        After two decades of rapid development, the whole of Guangdong Province, including the Pearl River Delta region and Shenzhen, has accumulated great potential for further economic expansion. Following Macau's reunification with China at the end of this year, the 50 000 sq. km. region encompassing Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Macau, Shenzhen and Zhuhai will become a more integrated regional economy. More Hong Kong people will invest, spend, acquire property, travel and settle in the region. The increase in economic strength of the region as a whole will in turn provide impetus for Hong Kong's further growth. Under the concept of "One Country, Two Systems", we will together explore ways to allow the free flow and pooling of manpower, goods, capital and other resources in response to economic forces, so as to rise to a higher level.

48. 我們毗鄰的廣東省，包括珠江三角洲和深圳市，經過二十年的高速發展，已累積進一步提升的龐大潛力。澳門今年年底回歸祖國後，穗港澳深珠之間的五萬平方公里，必將形成更緊密整合的區域經濟。港人在區內的投資、消費、置業、旅遊、定居等活動，將不斷增加。整個區域的經濟實力大大提升，亦將成為香港進一步富裕繁榮的動力。我們將研究如何加強區域內的合作，在「一國兩制」之下協調發展，讓人、貨、資金等各種資源盡量依循經濟規律自由流動組合，以達至新的飛躍。

49.        To cater for the increasingly heavy demand for cross-boundary traffic between Guangdong and Hong Kong, the Transport Bureau is implementing a series of immediate measures aiming at expanding the passenger and freight handling capacity of existing rail and road crossings. The Hong Kong-Mainland Cross-Boundary Major Infrastructure Co-ordinating Committee is actively working on the design and implementation of new cross-boundary links, such as crossings, marine terminals, shipping routes, railways and bridges. In the case of railways, these include the Sheung Shui to Lok Ma Chau Spur Line, which on completion in 2004 will link up with Shenzhen's metro system. As for road improvements, upon the completion of the Shenzhen Western Corridor bridge, the Route 3 network will be extended to link up with Yuen Long Highway, Route 10 and the Deep Bay Link. Infrastructure aside, the SAR Government is also actively considering ways to streamline cross-boundary customs clearing procedures. As we all know, the Hong Kong-Shenzhen boundary is already one of the busiest land crossings in the world. Traffic and trade between Hong Kong and the Mainland will thrive more than one can imagine, once these new projects and streamlined procedures are put in place.

49. 因應粵港日益繁忙的跨境交通，運輸局正落實一系列短期措施，以增加現有鐵路和道路口岸的客貨吞吐量。此外，香港與內地跨界大型基建協調委員會正在積極設計和落實新的過境通道，諸如口岸、碼頭、航線、鐵路、橋樑等，包括預計在二零零四年完成、可接駁至深圳市鐵路系統的上水至落馬洲支線。深港西部通道的大橋也約於同時建成，屆時三號幹線的網絡將可擴展，接駁元朗公路、十號幹線和后海灣連接路。除了硬件建設之外，特區政府亦正在積極研究進一步簡化過境通關的各種手續。大家知道，港深之間已是世界上最繁忙的陸路口岸之一。可以想見，將來隨着各項工程漸次落成和過境手續簡化，香港和內地之間的交通和貿易將是何等興旺。

Multitude of Tasks

多方面努力

50.        I have just outlined to you the issue of positioning Hong Kong. I mentioned that Hong Kong, other than being an important city of China, should also to developed into a world-class city - the New York and London of Asia. In comparing Hong Kong with these two world cities, our sole purpose is to inspire everyone to work harder to achieve greater economic development, so that we will enjoy a richer cultural life and a high standard of living in the future. I also talked about our strengths and our approaches to achieving these objectives. Our per capita income is on a par with other affluent economies. Our infrastructure is comprehensive. The rule of law is secure, and we have well-established regulatory and management systems. All of these are highly prized by many multi-national corporations. However, we still need to make progress in other areas if we want to see Hong Kong develop into a knowledge-based society and scale new economic heights, and become a place that we take greater pride in calling home.

50. 我剛才和大家討論了香港經濟發展的定位問題，提出香港除了是我國的一個重要城市之外，還要把它建設成為世界級的都會、亞洲的紐約、倫敦。我們與這兩個國際城市相比，不是為了別的原因，而是為了鼓舞我們自己加把勁，在經濟上實現更大發展，讓大家將來享有更富足的精神和物質生活。我並指出了通向這目標的努力方向，以及我們可以發揮的優勢。事實上，香港的人均收入已經達到富裕社會的水平，各種基本設施相當完備，法治和各種管理制度十分穩固，許多跨國公司都很重視香港的有利條件。但是，香港要在下世紀成為知識為本的社會，在經濟上再創高峰，還必須在多方面有所進步，使這裏成為香港人更加自豪的家園。

51.        Lying ahead of us are many tasks, the most urgent of all being the nurturing of and attracting to Hong Kong the world's most talented people, as well as achieving sustainable development and creating a first-rate living environment. Among the many issues that the Government will tackle next year, the focus will be on human capital and the environment. I would like to talk about human capital first.

51. 今後，我們要做的事情很多，其中最迫切的，我認為是培育和匯聚世界一流人才，以及確保可持續發展，建設世界一流的生活環境。特區政府來年要推動的眾多工作之中，將以人才和生活環境為重點。現在，我先談人才問題。

IV. Cultivating Talents for a Knowledge-based Society

丁、知識為本人才為要

52.        The quality of our people has a direct bearing on Hong Kong's competitiveness in the next century. It determines whether we continue to develop economically, our wealth continues to grow and our lives continue to improve. To realise our vision of Hong Kong as a world-class city with a thriving economy and an affluent and culturally rich society, it is first and foremost necessary to cultivate and retain a critical mass of talented people. I will now deal with a number of issues related to developing our human capital: education, youth development and admission of talented people.

52. 人才關乎香港在下世紀的整體競爭力，關乎經濟能否持續發展，以及社會財富的增長和民生的改善。香港要成為經濟蓬勃、市民富足、文化豐盛的世界都會，首要的是培育和匯聚人才。現在我談談幾個和開發人力資源有關的課題：教育、栽培青少年，以及輸入優秀人才。

A.  The Need for Education Reform

一、教育改革的必要

53.        In my last two Policy Addresses, I devoted much attention to education. In my address today, education remains a key issue because in the next century, knowledge-based economies will take the lead in the world. It is imperative that our education system keeps pace with the times.

53. 在過去兩年的施政報告，我都用較多篇幅談及教育。今天，我依然要強調這個主題，因為知識為本的經濟，將在下一世紀佔主導地位，香港的教育制度也必須與時並進。

54.        Thanks to years of expansion in education opportunities, Hong Kong people have attained a reasonably good educational level. On the whole, the performance of Hong Kong students studying abroad is on a par with their classmates, both local and foreign. And quite a number of the Honourable Members and leading figures in our community have attended secondary school or university in Hong Kong. All these speak for the achievements of our educators and officials responsible for education. However, times change, and the world moves on. We need to review and continuously improve our education and training system, just as other advanced communities are doing. I have thus asked the Education Commission to assist the Government in conducting a comprehensive review of our existing education system. The public consultation exercise on the aims of education held by the Commission this January generated an enthusiastic response from the community.

54. 經過多年的教育普及化，現在香港市民已具有一定的教育水平。香港學生到海外留學，平均成績絕對不亞於當地或來自其他地區的學生。在座的議員，以及一些社會領袖，不少也是在香港唸中學或大學的。這無疑是香港教育工作者和政府教育部門人員多年來努力的成果。時代不斷進步，與其他先進社會一樣，我們也有必要檢討和改良我們的教育和培訓制度。為此，我委託了教育統籌委員會協助政府，對現行教育制度作全面檢討。教統會今年一月就教育目標公開諮詢市民，反應非常熱烈。

55.        I support many of the suggestions made by our community as to how our education system might be reformed. For instance, many educators maintain that education should go beyond imparting academic knowledge to our students. Rather, it should aim at an all-round development of our children, including development not only in knowledge but also in personal character, skills, attitude and physique. In addition to normal academic studies, our students need to learn how to become responsible and caring individuals. There are suggestions that we review the curriculum, reduce the number of subjects and integrate the formal curriculum with extra-curricular activities so as to give our students a well-rounded education and to develop their intelligence and creativity.

55. 我不斷聽到社會各界人士對於改革教育的意見，不少我是十分贊同的。例如，許多教育工作者主張，教育不應光是知識的傳授，應該讓學生在知識、品格、才能、態度、體格等方面全面發展；不只是學習做事，更要學會做人。為此，有人主張改革課程，減少學科，把正規的課程和課外及校外活動結合在一起，通過不同的手段，提高學生的素養，並且更注重啟迪智慧、發揮創意。

56.        In addition, the focus of our education system should be on cultivation, not elimination, and examinations should not be reduced to a mechanism of producing losers. Even for those who fail exams, there should be proper channels for continuous learning in our system. Education should not be limited to formal schooling. Rather, it should include on-the-job training and continuing education. I consider it necessary to put in place specific measures to ensure that all our young people, regardless of qualifications and abilities, are given the opportunity of continuous learning.

56. 同時，教育制度的重點應該是栽培，而不是淘汰，考試不應該成為製造失敗者的機制。對於考試「失敗」的人，制度上應提供適當的機會讓他們繼續學習。教育的範圍，更包括離開學校後的在職訓練和個人進修；應該有具體辦法，讓不同學歷、不同才能的年輕人都獲得繼續學習的機會。

57.        There should also be better interfacing between the various stages of formal education, for example, between primary and secondary education, and between secondary and higher or professional education.

57. 正規教育的每一個階段，例如從小學升中學，以及從中學轉到專業和高等院校等，都應該有更好的銜接。

58.        As for early childhood education, which lays the foundation for effective learning, our top priorities are to enhance the professionalism of teachers and to ensure that the curriculum and teaching methods are conducive to children's healthy development.

58. 在奠定學習基礎的幼兒教育方面，首要的是提高教師的專業水平，以及確保課程和教授方法有利於兒童的健康成長。

59.        If Hong Kong wishes to become a knowledge-based economy in the information age, we must continue to innovate and change. This is why we must embrace "life-long learning". School education should aim at fostering in students an interest and an ability in learning so that they are able to acquire knowledge throughout their lives and respond effectively to changing circumstances.

59. 若要香港進入資訊社會，發展成知識為本的經濟，我們就要不斷創新，不斷變革，終身學習。我們應該培養對學習的興趣，務使每一個畢業生都能具備終身學習的能力，懂得不斷吸收新知識，以應付環境的轉變。

60.        The Education Commission is now consulting the public on our entire education system. In this second round of consultations, it is inviting views on the approach for reform and its initial thinking on the school curricula, education systems, assessment methods and the interface between the various stages of education. I have noted the public's initial support for the proposals and the wish that these be implemented as soon as possible. I expect the Education and Manpower Bureau to give me the final report by the middle of next year when the Commission has completed the whole review. I hope to see the early implementation of those recommendations receiving general public support.

60. 現在教統會正進行第二輪諮詢，範圍遍及整個教育制度，就課程、學制、考核方法，以至各個學習階段如何銜接，都提出了改革的方向和初步構思，邀請市民發表意見。我留意到，市民初步反應是支持的，並且希望改革盡早推行。待明年年中，教統會完成整個檢討後，教育統籌局會向我提交最後報告，其中一些得到社會普遍贊同的建議，我希望能夠盡早實施。

B.   Progress of Improvement Measures

二、不斷改良初見成效

61.        I am pleased to see the progress made by the Government in raising the quality of education and improving various important areas of the system over the past two years, while we consult the public on education reform. Initiatives have been implemented as a foundation for the way forward. Let me now give a brief account.

61. 我很高興看到，在我們公開徵詢教育改革意見的同時，兩年來對加強教育、改進教育方面的多個重要環節，都取得相當進展。我們實行了一些措施，為探討今後的改革方向提供了根據。現在讓我向各位扼要交代一下。

Basic Education

基礎教育

Introducing Administrative Reforms

行政改革

62.        Our policy is to delegate full authority and responsibility to schools and their front-line staff as far as possible. The Education Department has started devolving administrative and financial responsibilities to schools in stages. This is resulting in a leaner departmental management structure. At the same time, we are implementing measures to strengthen school-based management and enhance the schools' accountability.

62. 我們的政策是盡量讓學校和前線工作者有充分權責。教育署已經開始把學校行政和財政的權責逐步下放，教署本身的管理架構亦因而得以精簡。與此同時，加強校本管理和問責的各項措施，亦正積極推行。

Kindergarten Education

幼稚園教育

63.        We have pledged that, beginning from September 2004, all new kindergarten principals would have to complete the Certificate in Kindergarten Education course. In order to improve the quality of our kindergarten education at a faster rate, we will advance this target by two years to September 2002.

63. 我們曾承諾，由二零零四年九月起，所有新聘請的幼稚園校長必須修畢幼稚園教育證書課程。為了加快改善幼稚園教育質素，我們準備把這目標提早兩年，即由二零零二年九月起實行。

Improving the Learning Environment

改善學習環境

64.        Whole-day primary schooling is an important part of our efforts to raise the quality of education. It is important because it allows teachers more time to focus on giving the students an all-round education in ethics, intellect, physique, social skills and aesthetics. At the same time students are able to enjoy a better school life. We have made good progress in providing whole-day schooling for primary school students. The percentage of primary students enjoying whole-day schooling has risen from 19% in 1997 to 32% this year. By September 2002, the percentage will have doubled to reach our earlier interim target of 60%. We have set the long-term target of achieving whole-day schooling for almost all primary school students by the 2007-2008 school year.

64. 小學全日制是確保香港教育質素的重要一環，使老師有充裕的時間向學生灌輸德智體羣美的全面教育，學生也有更多時間享受校園生活，所以意義重大。政府積極推行小學全日制，已取得良好進展。小學生於全日制學校上課的比率，由一九九七年的百分之十九，升至現在的百分之三十二。在二零零二年九月，比率將增至較早前定下的中期目標，即百分之六十。我們亦已定下長遠目標，在二零零七至零八學年前，大致上所有小學生都可就讀全日制小學。

Quality Education

優質教育

65.        The Government set up a $5 billion Quality Education Fund last year to support school-based innovative practices and to improve the quality of teaching and learning. To date, we have granted some $580 million to over 1 000 projects, benefiting more than 600 000 kindergarten, primary and secondary students. The projects have improved the effectiveness of both teaching and learning, and have encouraged the teachers and principals involved to try out more creative ways of teaching.

65. 政府去年撥款五十億元，設立優質教育基金，鼓勵校本創新，提高教育質素。到目前為止，基金已撥款五億八千多萬元，支持一千多項計劃，惠及六十多萬中、小學及幼稚園學生，提高了教與學的效能，並且推動校長和教師採用更富創意的教學方法。

Promoting Information Technology in Education

推動資訊科技教育

66.        Since the publication of the five-year strategy on information technology in education last November, the Administration has been implementing the measures in stages. We have offered schools cash grants for purchasing computers, provided 120 schools each with an information technology co-ordinator, and begun information technology training for teachers. There has been a change in the education sector's mindset towards the use of information technology. Initially they had reservations. Now they embrace the idea and are responding positively. Within the next five years, our school children will be able to master the general application of information technology, connect to the Internet, and be equipped to become life-long learners with inquiring and creative minds.

66. 我們去年十一月發表了善用資訊科技學習的五年策略文件，各項措施已陸續推出。我們已為學校提供現金津貼購買電腦，並為一百二十所學校各提供一名資訊科技統籌員，教師培訓亦已展開。教育界對應用資訊科技在觀念上有所改變，由最初帶有保留的態度，到今天認同及積極回應。在未來五年，我們的學生將都能掌握一般的資訊科技應用技巧，並接上互聯網，有條件成為具探索精神和創意的終身學習者。

Upgrading the Quality of Teachers

提升教師質素

67.        We are progressively upgrading all pre-service training courses provided by the Hong Kong Institute of Education for primary and secondary school teachers, from sub-degree to degree or higher level. The first batch of students will graduate in 2002. Other tertiary institutions also offer degree courses in education. By 2004, we will have upgraded all the pre-service training programmes for primary and secondary school teachers to degree level.

67. 我們正逐步把香港教育學院所有中小學教師的職前培訓課程，由副學位程度升格為學位或以上程度，首批修讀該等學位課程的學生將於二零零二年畢業。其他高等教育院校也提供教育學位課程。由二零零四年開始，全港中小學教師職前培訓課程，都會是學位課程。

68.        The Government will also provide comprehensive training programmes for school principals. The first programme is scheduled to commence in the 2000-2001 school year. Thereafter, all newly-appointed principals will have to complete the first part of the programme prior to appointment.

68. 此外，政府將為校長提供全面的培訓課程。首輪課程將於二零零零至零一學年展開。由該學年開始，新任校長必須在上任前修畢課程的第一部分。

Improving Language Ability

改進兩文三語能力

69.        It is the SAR Government's goal to train our people to be truly biliterate and trilingual. To ensure that all teachers achieve a necessary standard of language ability, we have established language benchmarks for those teaching English in junior secondary schools and Putonghua in primary schools. The relevant training programmes and examinations will start next year. Thereafter, newly-appointed teachers must pass the language benchmarks. By 2005, all serving language teachers must have attained the benchmarks. That is, starting from next year, there will be an objective mechanism to ensure that language teachers have the necessary standards and the ability to teach in the relevant languages.

69. 特區政府的一貫宗旨，是培養兩文三語都能運用自如的人才。為確保所有教師都擁有一定的語文水平，我們已制定初中英語教師和小學普通話教師的基準，有關的培訓和考試將在明年實行。屆時，所有入職教師必須達到規定的語文基準，而到二零零五年，所有在職語文教師都要達到基準。換言之，從明年開始，將有一個客觀機制確保語文教師的水平和運用語文授課的能力達到基準。

70.        Chinese is one of the most widely used languages in the world. It is also an important tool for exploring our own cultural heritage. We must continue to improve the Chinese standards of our students, both written and spoken.

70. 中文是世界上應用最多的語言之一，更是我們認識祖國文化的重要工具。我們必須繼續提高學生的中文水平，包括讀和寫的能力。

71.        Mother-tongue teaching was introduced to help students learn more effectively. Most secondary schools adopted mother-tongue teaching in September 1998. Since then, we have found that students have improved in both their cognitive and learning abilities. According to the feedback from some schools, their Form 1 students receiving mother-tongue instruction have achieved better results in all subjects, including English.

71. 推行母語教學，是為了加強學生的學習成效。大部分中學於一九九八年九月實施母語教學後，學生的認知、學習能力和興趣得以提高。根據部分轉用母語教學的學校的反映，今年以母語學習的中一學生，校內成績，包括英文科在內，不但沒有下降，反而有進步的迹象。

72.        As a cosmopolitan city, we must ensure that more people can use English and use it better. The business sector has been complaining of a decline in the English standards of our younger generation since the early 1990's. In prompt response to their proposals and as a short-term measure, next year the Government will join hands with the Standing Committee on Language Education and Research (SCOLAR), and our industrial and business sector in launching a territory-wide publicity campaign to promote the use of English. The aim will be to enhance the English standards of the workforce and our students. In the long term, we will continue to improve the quality of our English teachers and the method of instruction in schools to ensure that students master basic language skills at an early stage of their education. Since early 1998, we have been providing at least one additional native-speaking English teacher for each secondary school. I am pleased to note that positive results have been achieved in the past year.

72. 香港作為一個國際都會，在運用英語方面，必須進一步普及和改進。自九十年代初以來，本港工商界一直批評本港年輕一代的英語水平下降。政府回應工商界的建議，採取短期的應急措施，聯同語文教育及研究常務委員會和各工商機構，在來年舉辦一項全港性的推廣英語活動，以進一步提高在職人士和學生的英語水平。長遠來說，我們將會繼續致力改善學校的英語師資及教授方法，確保學生從小就打好基礎。我們去年年初開始為每所中學增聘至少一名以英語為母語的英語教師。經過一年實踐，我很高興見到這項措施已初見成效。

Greater Diversity in Schools

鼓勵多元辦學

73.        I have pledged to provide support for the development of quality private schools and Direct Subsidy Scheme schools, as a move to introduce greater diversity and to give parents more choice. Recently, the Government granted two sites for the operation of non-profit-making private schools. In addition, four school premises have been allocated for the establishment of non-profit-making schools under the Direct Subsidy Scheme. We will continue to allocate resources in the coming year to support the development of such schools. I hope that more aided schools will join the Direct Subsidy Scheme, so that there will be even greater diversity in our education system.

73. 我曾承諾輔助優質私校和直接資助學校的發展，使我們的教育體系多元化，讓家長有更多選擇。最近，政府批出了兩幅土地，供辦學團體開辦非牟利私立學校。此外，政府亦撥出四所校舍作開辦非牟利直接資助學校之用。政府在來年會繼續撥出資源，支持這種辦學方式。我希望更多資助學校能轉為直資學校，令香港教育體系更多元化。

Tertiary Education

高等教育

Pursuit of Excellence

追求卓越

74.        We have always encouraged tertiary institutions to strive for greater achievements and to turn their special strengths into areas of excellence of international standard. The institutions have given an enthusiastic response. The University Grants Committee received a total of 41 proposals on the development of "areas of excellence". The three chosen propose strategies for developing information technology, biotechnology, and economics and business strategy as Hong Kong's areas of excellence. The University Grants Committee will provide over $120 million in total over five years to the relevant institutions for implementing their proposals.

74. 政府鼓勵院校精益求精，利用本身優勢發展具國際水準的卓越學科領域。院校已積極回應，大學教育資助委員會共收到四十一份發展「卓越學科領域」的建議，並選出了其中三份最優秀的建議，分別是發展資訊科技、生物科技，以及經濟和商業策略，作為香港的卓越學科領域。教資會將撥款共一億二千多萬元，供有關院校在五年內推行建議。

Reforming the Admission System

改革收生制度

75.        Local tertiary institutions have started to admit students with exceptional performances in non-academic fields in order to encourage a more balanced development of our students. This year, a total of 277 students who excelled in non-academic fields were admitted by eight institutions. I look forward to seeing further reforms in the admission system that tie in with the future development in Hong Kong's education.

75. 高等院校已開始錄取一些在學科以外表現出色的學生，鼓勵學生均衡發展。八所高等教育院校今年共錄取了二百七十七名在非學術領域內有傑出成就的學生。我期望大學能配合未來的教育發展，進一步改革收生制度。

Life-long Learning

終身學習

76.        In my last Policy Address, I put forward the concept of "life-long learning". I am glad to see that it has gained extensive support in the past year and has been chosen as the theme of the second phase of consultation conducted by the Education Commission.

76. 我在去年施政報告內提出了「學無止境」的概念，我很高興這個概念在過去一年獲得廣泛的支持，而教統會亦以「終身學習」為第二階段諮詢的主題。

77.        Our higher education institutions and the Open University are each adopting different measures to promote life-long learning. At present, over 200 000 Hong Kong citizens are already engaged in some form of further studies in these institutions. To encourage this trend, we have made available various forms of financial support. Starting from the 2000-2001 academic year, we will further extend the Non-Means Tested Loan Scheme to include students on self-financing courses in Government-funded tertiary institutions and post-secondary courses in the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education. This will benefit some 80 000 students.

77. 各專上院校和公開大學，都已採取各種方式，推動終身學習。目前有二十多萬市民正在這些院校攻讀各種進修課程。為鼓勵市民持續學習，政府目前已提供多方面的財政資助。我們會由下一學年開始，進一步擴大免入息審查貸款計劃的範圍，包括在政府資助高等院校自費進修及在香港專業進修學院修讀專上課程的學生，受惠人數近八萬人。

Collective Commitment to Education Development

發展教育共同承擔

78.        It is our target to provide quality education in Hong Kong. Progress in the past two years has generally been in line with our expectations. I am glad that the community as a whole agrees that education is pivotal to Hong Kong's future development and that our education system needs a revamp. Next year, we will have a more comprehensive blue-print for education reforms and concrete plans for carrying them forward. However, it needs to be pointed out that education reform is a long-term undertaking. Many initiatives, albeit supported by the community at large, must be implemented step by step. It takes time to achieve the desired results. Moreover, if we are to provide more learning opportunities, to recruit more teachers with higher academic qualifications, and to initiate reforms in each and every aspect of the education system, we will need substantial new resources. The Education Commission has rightly pointed out that good education is the collective responsibility of the entire community. The Administration will provide its share of resources for education and ensure their efficient allocation. At the same time, the public will need to play a bigger role in shouldering its share of the responsibility. I hope that the community will come up with more suggestions on this aspect during the Education Commission's consultation, so that we can work in concert and more quickly attain our goals for education.

78. 我們的目標，是要為香港提供優質教育。兩年來的進展，大致符合我們的期望。我很高興社會各階層認同教育對香港未來發展的重要性，認同香港教育需要大力改善。明年，我們便會有一幅更完善的教育改革藍圖和具體實施方案。需要指出的是，教育改革是長期的事業。許多新措施，即使獲得整個社會的支持，推行時也必須按部就班，需要較長時間才能達到理想的效果。同時，我們若要提供更多的學習機會，聘請更多高學歷的教師，在教育每一環節進行改革，便需要大量新的資源。正如教統會指出，辦好教育是整個社會的共同責任。政府將盡其本分提供教育資源，並努力使資源得到更有效的調配。同時，我們也須要市民更積極承擔責任。我期望在教統會諮詢公眾期間，市民也能夠就這方面多提建議，好讓我們同心協力，盡早實現教育理想。

C.  Young People

三、青少年

79.        Youth development has always been one of my major concerns. Whenever I read about outstanding young people like Kwong Lai Yin who sacrificed herself to save others and Chan Man Fong and Yeung Yan Yan who have attained remarkable academic achievements despite their physical disability, I am very touched and have great admiration for them. On the other hand, I am deeply distressed to read news such as large numbers of young students obtaining poor grades in public examinations, juveniles involved in gang activities, and the youth unemployment rate reaching 29%. I believe most people will share my feelings.

79. 青少年的發展，是我一向重視的課題。相信市民和我一樣，每次讀到一些有關香港優秀年輕人的報道，例如捨己救人的鄺麗妍同學，以及克服身體殘障，苦學有成的陳雯芳和楊欣欣同學，心裏都會充滿感動和欽佩。相反，當我們知道很多學生公開試成績低劣，或是童黨作惡，或是年輕人失業率達到百分之二十九時，都會感到心情沉重。

80.        As a responsible government, we are striving to improve our education system in such a way that our younger generation will be well-guided in their intellectual and moral development. I have given you an outline of the relevant measures. I am confident that after the reform, our education system will better meet their needs.

80. 作為負責任的政府，我們正致力改善教育制度，好讓我們的下一代在知識和品格方面都得到適當的培育。有關措施，剛才我已提及。我有信心，經過改革之後的教育制度，將更能照顧到青少年各方面的需要。

81.        Healthy development of our youth depends not only on school education. Family education also has a very important role to play. Children are greatly influenced by parents' every word and deed. Problematic children are often those without good parental care. Most parents love their children. But I have heard from many that they frequently encounter difficulties which they fail to solve in bringing up their children. There are also many who have to earn a living and cannot afford the time to attend to their children. To provide greater support to parents, we will devote more resources to promoting family education to help parents learn about how to guide their children, and to organising activities to foster a closer parent-child relationship.

81. 學校教育之外，家庭教育對於青少年的健康成長也至關重要。父母的一言一行，對下一代影響極大；缺乏良好家庭照顧的孩子，最容易出現問題。大部分父母，都是疼愛子女的，但不少家長向我表示，他們經常在管教子女方面遇到困難，不知如何解決；也有無數家長終日為口奔馳，缺乏時間關懷子女的成長。為了給予家長更多支援，我們會投放更多資源在家庭教育上，讓家長掌握更多有關教養子女的知識，以及舉辦一些有助於加強親子關係的活動。

82.        Presently, various youth services are provided by the Education and Manpower Bureau, the Health and Welfare Bureau and the Home Affairs Bureau. I have asked these three bureaux to collaborate in reviewing their resource utilisation and co-ordination with a view to providing, more efficiently, services that are better tailored to the needs of our young people.

82. 此外，目前教育統籌局、衞生福利局、民政事務局都為青年提供不同方面的服務。我已要求這三個決策局一同檢討目前的資源運用及協調安排，務求所有青少年服務更有效率，更能切合年輕人所需。

83.        Of course, there is a limit to what parents and the Government can do to create a decent environment for the growth of our younger generation. The prevailing social climate exerts great influence on young people. Many sociologists have pointed out that young people growing up in a materialistic society full of sex and violence may have their values distorted, rendering them unable to tell right from wrong. They can thus easily go astray. The juvenile gang problem that worries people in recent years also has a lot to do with our social climate. How then should we turn the tide, inculcate correct values, and make Hong Kong a good place for parents to bring up their children? This is an important issue on which the future of Hong Kong hinges, and is worthy of our thoughts and efforts. I hope that parents, teachers, youth workers, the media and other sectors of the community will work together with the Government for the sake of our younger generation. I also hope that the young people will play their own part and work hard for a bright future. Hong Kong remains a city of opportunity. With hard work and perseverance, even dreams that may seem unattainable can come true.

83. 當然，要為香港的青少年締造優良的成長環境，絕非單靠政府與家長就能成事。社會風氣對於年輕人的影響是不容忽視的。不少社會學家指出，紙醉金迷、色情和暴力文化泛濫的成長環境，每每扭曲青少年的價值觀，使他們變得是非不分，容易受到引誘而誤入歧途。近年受市民關注的童黨問題，與此有莫大關係。如何表彰正氣、扭轉歪風，讓所有為人父母者都能夠由衷感到香港是一個培育孩子的好地方，這是一個關係到香港未來的重要課題，值得我們深思，更值得我們為此努力。我希望家長、教師、青年工作者、傳媒，以及社會各界能與政府攜手，共同奮鬥，造福香港的新一代。我也期望年輕人負起責任，為自己創出美好的人生。香港始終是一個充滿機會的城市，憑着努力，許多看似不可能達到的理想也終能實現。

D.  Admission of Talented People

四、輸入優秀人才

84.        Great effort has been devoted to cultivating local talents. In addition, we should do what we can to attract talented people from elsewhere to come to Hong Kong. If we want to have a vibrant economy and broaden our economic base, we must have enough people of the right calibre in our workforce. It is a fact that there are certain experts that Hong Kong lacks and the Mainland can provide. We have therefore devised a scheme to admit talented Mainlanders. The SAR Government has already agreed on the specific arrangements under this scheme with the Central Government. Applicants must be people who excel in their own fields and possess the technological know-how and experience most needed in Hong Kong. The aim is for them to help us develop an economy that has a greater high-tech and higher value-added content. Details of the scheme and the selection criteria will be announced by the Secretary for Security shortly.

84. 我們除了盡最大努力培育本地人才之外，還要設法吸引各地精英來港服務。我們的經濟要蓬勃發展和擴闊基礎，必須有合適和足夠的人力資源。現時香港在若干方面缺乏合適的人才，而這些人才在內地可以找到。因此，我們釐定了一個引進內地優秀人才來港的計劃。特區政府與中央政府已就具體執行方法達成共識。這個計劃的對象，是各行各業出類拔萃的人士，能夠提供香港最需要的科技、知識或經驗，幫助香港發展成為高科技、高增值的經濟。計劃的詳細內容和人才甄選方法，會在短期內由保安局局長公布。

E.   Summing Up

五、小結

85.        People are our most valuable asset. We are committed to nurturing local talents through an improved education system. In addition, we will continue to open our doors to talented people from all countries and regions so that Hong Kong will become even more competitive. What we are doing in these areas is pivotal to Hong Kong's future development. I shall now come to another equally important issue: the quality of our living environment.

85. 人才是我們最寶貴的資產。總括來說，我們正通過改良本地教育制度，積極培育人才，同時也繼續本着開放的態度，廣攬各地精英，以進一步加強我們的競爭力。這方面的工作，對於香港的未來發展有着極其重要的意義。接着我要談到一個同樣值得我們重視的問題：香港的生活環境質素。

V.   Making Hong Kong an Ideal Home

戊、建設美好家園

86.        As we set out to build Hong Kong into a world-class city, we should first endeavour to make Hong Kong a clean, comfortable and pleasant home of which we are proud. A real change in the quality of Hong Kong's environment needs more than just cleaning up litter and enforcing environmental laws, it requires a fundamental change of mindset. Every citizen, every business, every government department and bureau needs to start working in partnership to achieve what is known as "sustainable development". Putting it in simple terms, sustainable development for Hong Kong means:

l        finding ways to increase prosperity and improve the quality of life while reducing overall pollution and waste;

l        meeting our own needs and aspirations without doing damage to the prospects of future generations; and

l        reducing the environmental burden we put on our neighbours and helping to preserve common resources.

86. 若要把香港建設成世界級都會，我們首先要使它成為一個整潔、舒適、足以自豪的美好家園。為此，我們需要的，不僅是清理垃圾、執行環保條例，而是從根本上改變觀念。市民、商家、政府決策局和部門都應該通力合作，一起實踐「可持續發展」。簡單說，對香港而言，「可持續發展」的涵義就是：

l   在追求經濟富裕、生活改善的同時，減少污染和浪費；

l   在滿足我們自己各種需要與期望的同時，不損害子孫後代的福祉；

l   減少對鄰近區域造成環保負擔，協力保護共同擁有的資源。

87.        Hong Kong is richly endowed by nature. Past efforts at building our city have contributed to the beauty of our landscape. Hong Kong, the "Pearl of the Orient", is indeed worthy of its name. However, our environment has been deteriorating due to rapid population growth and economic development, the community's lack of environmental awareness, and the fact that our commitment and long-term planning for environmental protection have not kept pace with changing circumstances. Pollution has not only tarnished Hong Kong's image as an international city, but also greatly affected our health. It is high time we faced up to the problem, and do all we can to improve our living environment.

87. 香港自然環境得天獨厚，經過多年建設，景致更加怡人，「東方之珠」實至名歸。但是，由於人口激增，經濟活動日益頻繁，加上環保意識薄弱，政府在這方面的決心和長遠規劃落後於形勢，環境污染因而急促惡化。這不僅有損香港的國際形象，更影響市民健康。我們必須痛下決心解決問題，使我們的生活環境徹底改善。

88.        Here I would like to talk about three major environmental problems and three major tasks in building a quality living environment for our citizens. I shall also outline the Government's current objectives, strategies and measures.

88. 接着，我分別討論三大環保問題和三項有關建設優質生活環境的工作，並扼要介紹政府現階段目標和策略。

A.  Air Pollution

一、空氣污染

89.        The Government's air quality objectives spell out the maximum safe levels of major air pollutants in the ambient air. Such standards are similar to those adopted in the United States. Of all the pollutants, respirable particulates pose the greatest threat to our health. The average level of respirable particulates in Hong Kong, as recorded at most of the air quality monitoring stations is nearly 50% greater than New York, and consistently approaches or exceeds the maximum level laid down in our objectives. As regards the other major pollutants, nitrogen oxide levels are on the rise and often approach or exceed the maximum levels. Ozone levels, which were relatively low in the past, have increased significantly in recent years. This problem, which is affecting our health, is already serious and may get worse. Hence we should no longer delay in taking action against air pollution.

89. 香港政府的空氣質素指標，明確界定多種主要空氣污染物在大氣中含量的安全上限，與現時美國的標準相若。這些污染物之中，以可吸入微粒對市民的健康影響最壞。目前，香港大多數空氣質素觀測站錄得的可吸入微粒平均含量持續明顯高出指標，比起紐約便高出五成。至於其餘幾種主要空氣污染物當中，氧化氮含量持續上升，現在經常接近或超越指標；臭氧的含量一向較低，但近年也顯著增加，可見香港空氣污染已相當嚴重，而且還可能惡化，十分不利市民健康。防治空氣污染，不能再拖下去了。

90.        The SAR Government is keenly aware of the severity of the problem. After careful deliberation, we have drawn up a series of new measures. The objectives are to reduce the total emissions of respirable particulates emitted from vehicles by 60% by end 2003, and 80% by end 2005, by which time nitrogen oxide emissions should also be reduced by 30%. When we meet these initial targets, our air quality will compare favourably with that of major cities in developed countries such as New York and London, and the respiratory health of our citizens will substantially improve.

90. 特區政府深知問題嚴重，經過慎重考慮，重新制定了一系列現階段措施，目標是：二零零三年年底前，汽車排出的可吸入微粒總量要減少六成；二零零五年年底前，要減少八成，氧化氮含量也要減少三成。達到這些初階目標後，本港的空氣質素將不遜於一般先進國家的大城市如紐約、倫敦。市民呼吸系統的毛病將大大減少，身體更加健康。

91.        To achieve these goals, we need the right solutions for tackling air pollution. The deteriorating air quality in Hong Kong is mainly due to pollution at street level caused by vehicle emissions and regional air pollution caused by economic activities throughout the Pearl River Delta region including Hong Kong. The latter problem needs to be solved on a regional level and I shall return to it later.

91. 為達此目標，須對症下藥。香港空氣污染惡化，主要原因有二︰一是主要由車輛廢氣導致的路邊空氣污染；另外，就是由珠江三角洲包括香港在內的經濟活動，引致的地區性空氣污染。後者須在地區層面尋求解決，稍後我會再談。

92.        In Hong Kong, vehicle emissions are often trapped by high-rise buildings and hilly surroundings. Although we have an efficient public transport system which has kept car ownership at a relatively low level, the average road utilisation rate is about four or five times higher than that in Japan or the UK. Moreover, 135 000 or nearly 30% of our existing fleet of half a million vehicles are diesel-powered, compared with only 17% in Singapore and 10% in the UK. Diesel vehicles account for nearly 70% of the total distance travelled on our roads.

92. 本港大廈林立，高山環繞，汽車廢氣容易積聚。儘管我們有便捷的公共交通系統，維持較低的私家車擁有率，但是每部汽車的平均道路使用率卻比日本或英國高四、五倍；而且，在本港現有五十萬輛汽車中，十三萬五千輛是柴油車，接近總數三成；新加坡和英國的比率分別只是一成七和一成。至於本港車輛行駛總車程中，柴油車更佔近七成。

93.        As a result, diesel vehicles account for 98% of the respirable particulates and 85% of the nitrogen oxide emitted by vehicles. Overall, they are responsible for 52% of the respirable particulates in the air throughout the urban area, and for 60% of ambient nitrogen oxide. Therefore, the key to prevent and abate air pollution at street level is to control the use of, improve and replace diesel vehicles.

93. 結果是，車輛排放的可吸入微粒和氧化氮，分別有百分之九十八和百分之八十五來自柴油車。總括來說，市區空氣中可吸入微粒有百分之五十二由柴油車排放，而周圍空氣中的氧化氮，六成來自柴油車。所以，防治路邊空氣污染，關鍵在於全面管制、改善和取代柴油車輛的使用。

Comprehensive Control on Diesel Vehicles

全面管制柴油車輛

94.        More stringent standards for new diesel vehicles, known as Euro standards, were introduced as early as 1994. However, piecemeal measures cannot solve the problem completely. We have thus drawn up a comprehensive set of policies to be implemented now to combat pollution caused by diesel vehicles, including taxis and light buses as well as light, medium and heavy diesel vehicles.

94. 早在一九九四年，新登記的柴油車已須符合較嚴格的歐盟標準；但類似的零星措施不能徹底解決問題。現在，特區政府制定了一整套對付柴油車污染的政策，對象包括的士、小巴、及輕、中、重型柴油車。

95.        At present, there are 18 000 diesel taxis in Hong Kong. We have decided to stop importing diesel taxis after next year. To encourage early replacement of the existing taxis, we will be providing grants at an appropriate level to assist owners to switch to LPG vehicles. We are proposing to the taxi trade that all diesel taxis over seven years old be taken off the road by 2003 and that no diesel taxis will be allowed after 2006.

95. 目前，本港有一萬八千輛柴油的士。我們已經決定在明年之後不再進口這類車輛。為鼓勵車主早日改用石油氣的士，政府將給予適當的資助，並正向的士業提出，二零零三年之後不再使用車齡超過七年的柴油車，二零零六年之後不再使用任何柴油車。

96.        There are at present 6 000-odd diesel light buses in Hong Kong. Starting in April next year, we will launch a six month trial scheme for LPG light buses. If the results are satisfactory, we intend to provide financial assistance similar to that for the taxi trade to encourage operators to switch over to LPG light buses from 2001.

96. 本港有六千多輛柴油小巴。明年四月，我們將推行一個為期半年的石油氣小巴試驗計劃。如果效果理想，我們將為小巴業提供類似的士業所得的資助，鼓勵業界由二零零一年起改用石油氣小巴。

97.        It is also important that we provide adequate infrastructure for the operation of LPG taxis and light buses. The Government is offering LPG suppliers incentives to construct a network of LPG filling stations and is organising training courses for LPG vehicle mechanics.

97. 與此同時，我們有必要為石油氣的士和小巴提供足夠的基礎設施。政府已向石油氣供應商提供優惠，幫助他們建設加氣網絡，並已開辦多項石油氣車輛技工訓練課程。

98.        Apart from diesel light buses, Hong Kong has another 70 000 diesel light vehicles, 50 000 of which are of pre-Euro standard. On a trial basis, particulate traps will be installed in these pre-Euro-standard vehicles to reduce pollution. If the results are satisfactory, we intend to provide grants to owners in 2001 for the installation of these devices. In the longer term, we will consider the need to replace all diesel light vehicles.

98. 除了柴油小巴之外，本港另有七萬輛輕型柴油車，其中約五萬輛在歐盟標準生效前製造。我們將替這批舊式車輛試驗安裝微粒收集器，以減少污染。如效果理想，我們打算在二零零一年資助這類車的車主安裝。長遠而言，我們將研究是否取締所有輕型柴油車。

99.        There are 12 000 diesel buses and almost 40 000 other medium and heavy diesel vehicles in Hong Kong. Half of these buses and over 60% of the medium and heavy diesel vehicles, totalling some 30 000, are pre-Euro standard vehicles. Installing catalytic converters is the best way to reduce emissions from these old diesel vehicles. The franchised bus companies have started to install these devices in their older vehicles. We will be conducting trials to identify catalytic converters that are suitable for other types of medium and heavy diesel vehicles, and we hope to draw up specifications by 2001. Grants will be provided for owners of these old diesel vehicles to install a suitable catalytic converter.

99. 本港有一萬二千輛柴油巴士和差不多四萬部其他中、重型柴油車；其中半數巴士及六成多的其他中、重型柴油車是在歐盟標準生效前製造的，共約三萬輛。裝置柴油催化器是減少這些舊式柴油車輛排放廢氣的最好辦法，幾家專利巴士公司已着手為其舊式巴士安裝。我們還將測試有哪些催化器適用於其他中、重型柴油車，希望最遲在二零零一年釐訂規格。政府屆時將資助這些舊式柴油車的車主安裝合適的催化器。

100. A total of $1.4 billion has been set aside as grants to owners of taxis, light buses and other pre-Euro standard diesel vehicles for the purpose of switching over to LPG, installation of particulate traps and the fitting of catalytic converters. These grants will be made available after consultation and Legco approval. I am sure this major expenditure will be worthwhile. It also serves to underline our commitment to improve air quality.

100. 政府已預留十四億元，待向各方諮詢及獲立法會批准後，便可立即向車主提供各種資助，以便的士、小巴和其他在歐盟標準生效前製造的柴油車可改用石油氣、安裝微粒收集器或柴油催化器。這些資助費用雖然龐大，但我深信是值得的；大家亦可從中看到政府對改善空氣質素的決心。

101. Upon implementation of the scheme, the installation of particulate traps or catalytic converters will be required for the registration renewal of all pre-Euro standard diesel vehicles. In addition, like most European countries, we will be adopting the more stringent Euro III emission standard as from 2001. From that year, no new diesel vehicle will be imported unless it complies with this standard. We will also tighten our control over the sulphur content of diesel fuel.

101. 上述資助計劃實施後，所有在歐盟標準生效前製造的柴油車，都須裝置微粒收集器或催化器才可續牌。此外，在二零零一年，我們將與歐洲大多數國家看齊，採用更嚴格的「歐盟３」柴油車廢氣排放標準，同時禁止進口任何不符這套新標準的柴油車，並更嚴格管制柴油含硫量。

Stronger Actions against Smoky Vehicles

加強檢舉排放過量黑煙車輛

102. The Environmental Protection Department is expanding its smoky vehicle spotter programme and has been using more sophisticated testing equipment for smoky vehicles since last month. Starting from next year, all commercial vehicles will be required to have their emission control equipment tested every year. Meanwhile, the Police have stepped up enforcement action against smoky vehicles. Later this month, we will put before this Council legislation to increase the fixed penalty for smoky vehicles to $1,000. When more facilities, technicians and equipment are available for maintenance, the Government will consider whether to further increase the fine. In addition, the Customs and Excise Department is stepping up action against the illegal importation of diesel fuel with higher levels of pollutants. We will also consult the public shortly on the control of idling engines.

102. 環境保護署已擴大車輛黑煙檢舉計劃，上月起採用更精密的儀器，更嚴格檢驗問題車輛。明年起，所有商用車輛每年都要接受這項測試。警方亦已對排放過量黑煙的車輛加強執法。月內，我們將向立法會提交法案，把車輛排放過量黑煙的定額罰款提高至一千元。隨着市場逐步增加有關的修理設施和人手，政府或將進一步提高罰款額。此外，香港海關正加強查禁非法進口、污染物含量較高的汽油。我們快將就管制路邊汽車引擎空轉徵詢公眾意見。

Pedestrianisation

闢設行人專用區

103. We are planning for pedestrian precincts on both sides of the Harbour and in a number of new development areas. We also intend to expand the pedestrian zones in crowded and more polluted parts of our city so as to reduce pollution caused by vehicle emissions. The Transport Department has commissioned consultants to carry out relevant studies in various districts, including Causeway Bay, Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok. Our tentative plan is to designate certain streets with heavy pedestrian flow as pedestrian priority zones, for example, in the vicinity of Times Square in Causeway Bay, Peking Road in Tsim Sha Tsui and Nelson Street in Mong Kok. We hope to start consulting the public in the next few months, and to implement these plans from the middle of next year.

103. 我們計劃在維港兩岸和多個新發展區闢設行人專用區，還打算在人煙稠密和空氣污染的地方擴大行人地帶，以減輕車輛產生的污染。運輸署已聘用顧問公司對多個地區，包括銅鑼灣、尖沙咀和旺角展開研究。初步構思是將部分行人往來頻密的街道劃為行人優先地帶，例如銅鑼灣時代廣場附近、尖沙咀北京道一帶和旺角奶路臣街等。我們希望在未來數月開始徵詢公眾意見，並在明年年中實施這些計劃。

New Comprehensive Transport Strategy

新的整體運輸策略

104. Nevertheless, in the long run, if the number of vehicles on our roads continues to increase, and if they still run on fossil fuels, the improvements in air quality brought about by our efforts will not be lasting, no matter how hard we try. Findings in the recently completed Third Comprehensive Transport Study have made that very clear. The Study also highlights the need to revise our comprehensive transport strategy. The Secretary for Transport will soon be presenting a package of recommendations based on the findings of the Study. In fact, we have already adjusted our strategy to encourage the use of less polluting modes of transport, for example, by improving railway services and pedestrian facilities in newly developed areas. To develop environment-friendly modes of transport, how much they cost, how to share infrastructural investment and how to determine the charges to be borne by users, are all questions that will need to be solved in ways different from traditional thinking. New strategic plans for investment in transportation and land will also be drawn up.

104. 但是，長遠來說，如果車輛數目不斷增加，又繼續使用化石燃料，則無論我們怎樣努力改善空氣質素，成效都會非常短暫。最近完成的「第三次整體運輸研究」的一些結論正好說明這點，同時指出修訂整體運輸策略的必要。運輸局局長日內將介紹基於「第三次整體運輸研究」的整套提議。事實上，我們已經改變有關策略，例如改善新區的鐵路服務和行人設施，鼓勵市民使用污染較少的交通工具。用哪些較環保的運輸模式、花多少錢、基建投資如何分擔、用者須承擔的費用如何釐定，都是須要解決的問題，而且都不能沿用舊觀念去處理。投資於運輸和土地的策略規劃，亦須重新制訂。

105. Other measures to prevent and abate air pollution will be taken by the bureaux concerned. For example, apart from the introduction of new emission standards for motorcycles earlier this month, we will impose more stringent control over pollutants contained in petrol next year. Proposals for phasing in age limits for different categories of vehicles will be presented for consultation next year. We will need to explore longer term measures, such as conducting feasibility studies on an electric trolley bus system and other electrically powered vehicles, and examining the possibility of increasing the use of natural gas to partly replace other fuels for vehicles and power-generating. Furthermore, we will soon put forward a proposal on an indoor air quality certification scheme for public consultation. Government buildings will take the lead in implementing the scheme.

105. 有關決策局還將實施其他防治空氣污染措施。除本月初頒布的電單車排放廢氣標準外，明年我們還將更嚴格管制汽油污染物含量，並就逐步實施各類車輛車齡上限建議，諮詢公眾。我們也要探討下一階段更長遠的措施，例如進行有關使用無軌電車系統和其他電動車輛的可行性研究、以天然氣局部取代其他發電及汽車燃料等。此外，政府還將提出一個室內空氣質素證明書計劃，向公眾諮詢，並率先在政府建築物內推行。

B.   Water Pollution

二、水污染

106. Next, I will talk about the prevention and control of water pollution. This issue covers two areas, first, clean drinking water and second, sewage treatment.

106. 接着，我要和大家討論如何防治水污染。這個課題分兩方面，首先是食水的清潔保證，第二是污水處理。

Drinking Water

食水

107. As Dongjiang is a major source of Hong Kong's drinking water, some people have raised questions as to whether the pollution in the river has affected the quality of our fresh water supply. First of all, I would like to emphasise that Hong Kong's drinking water is absolutely clean and safe. The quality of water from Dongjiang meets the Mainland standards. In addition, the treatment procedures here in Hong Kong are very stringent. The quality of treated water meets World Health Organisation standards for water suitable for immediate consumption and is comparable to the US national standards for drinking water.

107. 東江是本港食水主要的來源。有人質疑江水遭受污染，令本港食水質素下降。讓我首先強調：目前本港市民飲用的水十分清潔，絕對安全。輸港東江水水質符合內地認可標準，加上江水輸入香港後的處理程序十分嚴格，經處理後，水質完全達到世界衞生組織的可立即飲用標準，亦不低於美國國家飲用標準。

108. Maintaining the quality of Dongjiang water supplied to Hong Kong is a long-term priority for us and for the Guangdong authorities. Undeniably, the economic developments along Dongjiang have caused pollution of the river. To tackle the problem, the Guangdong authorities joined forces with the SAR Government and moved the Dongjiang intake upstream to avoid taking in the more contaminated water from the tributaries. The Guangdong authorities also plan to construct, within four years, a closed aqueduct to replace the existing open channel from the Dongjiang intake to the Shenzhen Reservoir. To effectively prevent and control the pollution of Dongjiang, measures including the provision of sewage treatment facilities along the river, better land use and stronger enforcement actions against pollution at source are also being taken.

108. 當然，維持輸港東江水水質良好，是特區政府和廣東省當局長期的要務。的確，由於東江一帶經濟發展，江水受到污染。為此，政府和廣東省當局共同研究，決定把輸港東江水的進水口往上游遷移，避開支流較嚴重的污染。同時，廣東省當局計劃在四年內建成密封式輸水管道，取代現時連接東江進水口與深圳水庫的露天輸水道；另外又沿江建造污水處理設施，改善用地規劃，以及針對污染源頭加強執法等，力求徹底防治東江污染。

109. We believe that all existing projects and plans for improving the quality of the Dongjiang water supplied to Hong Kong are moves in the right direction. The SAR Government is actively co-operating with the Guangdong authorities in this important task. We will examine carefully the valuable input from all sectors of the community and monitor the progress and outcome of the works to make sure that we are on top of any problems that may arise.

109. 特區政府認為，目前有關改善東江輸港食水水質的工程和計劃，大方向是正確的。我們在這件重要工作上，積極和廣東省合作，亦會不斷認真研究各界提出的寶貴意見，時刻密切留意檢討工作進展和遇到的各種問題。

Sewage Treatment

污水處理

110. Clean harbours and rivers are more than a pleasure to look at. They provide favourable conditions for sports and recreation and are beneficial to our health. To tie in with the overall sustainable development of Hong Kong, major infrastructural projects have been put in place to improve the sewage collection and treatment systems. As water pollution problems vary from place to place, different solutions need to be found.

110. 清潔的海港和河溪，不只賞心悅目，更能為康體活動提供優美的環境，對市民的健康大有裨益。為配合整體可持續發展，政府已展開大規模配套基建，改善污水收集和處理。不同地區有不同的問題，解決辦法也不一樣。

111. The waterways in the New Territories used to be heavily polluted by livestock waste. As a result of the Government's efforts over the past decade, the rivers now generally flow smoothly and have good water quality. However, there is still pollution of rivers and streams by disposal of untreated wastes from scattered villages not covered by the sewerage network and from other sources. We are working on the solutions which include, for example, removing 80% of the remaining pollution load in the Shing Mun River. The situation in the new towns is better as most of them are served by advanced sewage treatment facilities. Water pollution arising from the older urban areas on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon is much more serious. 75% of the sewage produced by the some 5 million urban residents is discharged into the Harbour after coarse screening only.

111. 新界地區水源過去廣受禽畜廢物污染；經過近十年整治，現在河道大都暢通，水質良好。不過，一些未有污水收集系統的零散村落及其他污染源頭仍有廢物直接排進大小河流，造成污染。我們現正設法解決這些問題；其中一項計劃，是把城門河的污染物再減少八成。新市鎮的情況一般較好，大部分已設有先進的污水處理設施。問題最嚴重的，是較早發展的港九市區；區內五百多萬居民排出的污水，七成半只是篩除較大物體後就排進維港。

Strategic Sewage Disposal Scheme

策略性污水排放計劃

112. As part of our efforts to tackle the sewage problem that I have just described, the Strategic Sewage Disposal Scheme (SSDS) is being implemented as quickly as possible. We are building a massive network of tunnels 150 metres below the surface of the Kowloon peninsula. This is part of Stage I of SSDS. Other projects include a sewage treatment works on Stonecutters Island and a submarine pipeline to carry treated sewage to the western seabed of the Victoria Harbour for discharge. Both projects have been completed and the sewage treatment works has come into operation. Over half of the tunnel network, which will be 23 km in length, has also been completed. On completion, the network will collect all the sewage from Chai Wan, Tseung Kwan O, Kowloon, Tsuen Wan, Kwai Chung and Tsing Yi, which will then be carried to Stonecutters Island for treatment. At present, of the effluents discharged into our inner harbour, 70% comes from these districts. We should therefore lose no time in completing the network. However, the construction of these tunnels has been very difficult and is taking longer than we all had hoped. The latest estimates from the engineers are that the projects may not now be finished until well into 2001.

112. 正在全速進行的「策略性污水排放計劃」，就是政府為解決上述污水處理問題所做工作的一部分。我們正在九龍半島一百五十公尺深的一大片地底裏，建造一個龐大的管道網絡。這是上述計劃第一期工程的一環；其餘工程還包括昂船洲的一座污水處理廠、一條把經過處理的污水輸往維港西海牀排放的海底管道，兩者皆已建造完成，污水處理廠並已啟用。網絡管道全長二十三公里，現已建成超過一半；全部完成後可收集柴灣、將軍澳、九龍地區，以及荃灣、葵涌、青衣各區所有污水，並輸往昂船洲處理。目前，這些地區排出的污水，佔維港接收污水量的七成，故我們建設上述管道時，實在分秒必爭。不過，整個工程十分艱巨，進度比我們預期的慢；根據工程師最近評估，可能要遲至二零零一年年中或年底方能全部建成。

113. We are also actively making preparations for Stages II, III and IV of the SSDS. This part of the plan calls for building collection tunnels on Hong Kong Island, construction of a tunnel from Hong Kong Island to the treatment plant on Stonecutters Island, upgrading of the treatment system to include disinfection, and building a longer tunnel that will discharge treated sewage outside the harbour area. All these projects were originally scheduled to be completed by 2008.

113. 此外，「策略性污水排放計劃」第二、三、四期工程亦在緊密籌備中。這幾期工程包括港島區污水收集網絡、由港島通往昂船洲污水處理廠的管道、污水處理廠內的污水消毒裝置，以及一條更長的管道，把處理過的污水排放出外海。整套工程原定於二零零八年全部完成。

114. While the general strategy for collecting and treating sewage from the main urban area remains sound, experience with Stage I suggests that we need to re-schedule the completion dates and re-assess the costs of the projects in the later stages in a more conservative manner. To this end, we will set up an independent expert group within the next few months to examine whether these projects can really provide the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly means for handling the sewage from Hong Kong Island. This will help avoid further changes and consequent delays to the projects needed to protect the water quality of the harbour.

114. 整個從主要市區範圍收集和處理污水計劃的策略方向是正確的；可是，有鑑於第一期工程遇到的困難，我們對第二、三、四期工程的完工日期和成本，須比較保守地重新估算。因此，我們將盡快在幾個月內成立獨立的專家小組，研究這批工程計劃是否處理港島區污水的最經濟和最環保的辦法，以保證將來工程順利，令維港水質可盡快改善。

Increasing Expenditure on Sewerage Work

增加排污工程開支

115. The SSDS is a huge project. Stage I alone will cost a total of $8.2 billion and the total costs for the remaining works will reach an estimated $18 billion. Even so, Hong Kong's entire sewerage improvement programme is so massive that the SSDS only accounts for less than half of the overall expenditure. Our plans call for us to invest heavily in sewerage systems and treatment works in other areas including the new towns and small villages in the New Territories, as well as protecting the Mai Po Nature Reserve. Such spending will increase by 50% to $9 billion in the next five years.

115. 「策略性污水排放計劃」規模龐大，單是第一期工程總成本便達八十二億港元；其他各期工程總成本預計更達一百八十億元。但香港整個排污系統改善計劃實在十分龐大，上述工程所佔的開支比重還不到總額的一半。計劃中為新界新市鎮、小村落和為保護米埔自然生態而敷設的污水管道和處理污水的工程，開支增幅也很大，未來五年內投入的總金額將增加五成至九十億元。

C.  Solid Waste

三、固體廢物

116. An excessive output of solid waste is a headache for affluent societies. Hong Kong is not immune from it. Last year, despite the economic downturn, we still produced about 45 000 tonnes of solid waste every day, of which 10 000 tonnes were municipal waste and over 32 000 tonnes were construction and demolition materials, enough to fill up a medium-sized ocean-going freighter. After recycling, there were still over 8 000 tonnes of municipal waste and 7 000 tonnes of construction and demolition materials dumped at the landfills each day, filling them up much faster than expected. To prevent waste accumulation from becoming a serious long term problem and hampering the development of Hong Kong, we must seek to reduce waste, increase the recycling rate, and find proper ways of disposal.

116. 固體廢物激增，是富裕社會的頭痛病，香港也不能避免。去年，儘管經濟不景，香港人棄置的固體廢物每日也約有四萬五千公噸，包括一萬公噸都市廢物和超過三萬二千公噸拆建廢料，足可載滿一艘中型遠洋貨船。經循環再用處理後，每日棄置在堆填區的都市廢物仍超過八千公噸，拆建廢料也多達七千公噸，令這些堆填區比我們預期更早填滿。為免廢物堆積長遠造成嚴重問題，影響香港的發展，我們必須減少廢物，提高循環再用率，並妥善處理。

Waste Reduction

減少廢物

117. The Waste Reduction Committee was established earlier this year. Its target is to double the overall rate of municipal waste reduction and recycling by 2007. Measures are already being taken to this end. Waste separation facilities are now available in all public housing estates and many private residential developments. In addition, the Government has provided land to facilitate the operation of the waste collection and recycling industry. In general, waste reduction can be encouraged by levying a suitable charge on waste collection and disposal as well as improving all commercial packaging. But given that our consumer goods are mainly imported, controlling their packaging is by no means easy. As for collecting a waste disposal fee, the Government will put forward a proposal for a landfill charging scheme shortly.

117. 我們今年成立了減少廢物委員會，工作目標是在二零零七年年底前，把減少都市廢物和循環再用的整體比率增加一倍，有關工作已經展開。所有公共屋邨和很多私人屋苑已有廢物分類設備。另外，政府已為廢物收集和循環再造業提供土地，方便他們經營。通常來說，收取適當的廢物收集處理費和改善商品包裝方式能減少廢物，但由於香港消費物品以進口居多，包裝不易控制。收費方面，政府將於稍後提出徵收堆填區使用費的新建議。

Recycling

循環再用

118. On the waste recycling front, we have achieved some results. In Hong Kong last year, 78% of the construction and demolition materials were recycled. As for municipal waste, 80% of metals, 35% of plastics and 53% of paper products were recovered for recycling. While these figures are not low by world standards, they do not reflect the fact that only 8% of recoverable domestic waste was recycled in Hong Kong. We must step up our efforts in this area. With this in mind, we will seek funding in the coming year to construct new waste separation facilities. We will also encourage the new District Councils to explore ways to increase the recovery rate of reusable materials in collaboration with the business sector and local communities.

118. 廢料循環再用方面，我們有點成績。去年，香港的拆建廢料循環再用率是百分之七十八；都市廢物中的金屬循環再用率為百分之八十、塑料百分之三十五、紙品百分之五十三。以世界標準衡量，這些數字相當不錯，但未能反映可回收的住宅廢物只有百分之八被循環再用。這方面的工作須加強。為此，我們來年將尋求經費興建新的廢料分類設施，並鼓勵新的區議會與商界和社區合作，增加可再用物料的回收率。

Waste to Energy

廢物變能源

119. Regardless of what efforts we may make in reducing waste at source and increasing reuse and recycling rates, we will still be left with large volumes of waste that need to be disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner. We are restoring old landfill sites at a cost of $2.3 billion and are seeking to turn the combustible gases into energy. We will be consulting the community in the coming year on proposals for new waste management facilities, including waste-to-energy incinerators that meet the highest environmental and health standards. We will have to invest over $10 billion on such facilities in the next decade.

119. 儘管我們盡量避免製造廢物，並積極循環再用，但仍然會有大量廢物須以合乎環保標準的方法處理。我們正動用二十三億元翻新舊的堆填區，並把釋出的可燃氣體變為能源。明年，我們將提議興建廢物管理設施，徵詢公眾意見；這些建議包括興建達到最嚴格環保衞生要求、把廢物焚化轉為能源的設施。預期未來十年，我們在這方面須動用興建費用一百億元以上。

D.  Co-operation with the Mainland

四、與內地合作

120. Hong Kong cannot possibly solve all of its environmental problems single-handedly. We need to work closely with the Mainland authorities. We have recently reached an agreement with the State Environmental Protection Agency to the effect that any movement of waste between Hong Kong and the Mainland should conform with the Basel Convention. We also need the co-operation of our neighbours, for example to protect our air and water quality. They in turn need our support since some of their pollution problems originate from our economic activities.

120. 徹底解決香港環保問題，不能單靠我們自己。我們必須與內地有關當局緊密合作。我們最近和國家環境保護局達成協議，彼此在進行跨界廢物移運時，都遵守《巴塞爾公約》。我們也需要得到鄰近地區的合作，以處理空氣和水污染等問題。對方也同樣需要我們的支持，因為他們的污染問題，部分是由我們的經濟活動引起。

121. Along with rapid economic development in recent years, the Guangdong Province has done much in environmental protection and with significant results. At the very same time as the Governor of Guangdong Province, Mr. Lu Ruihua, is making an announcement, I am glad to announce here that Hong Kong and Guangdong will co-operate in six areas of environmental protection. First, to complete a joint study on regional air quality by early 2001 and to formulate long-term preventive measures as soon as possible. Second, to study the feasibility of adopting common standards for diesel fuels in both Guangdong and Hong Kong, and to draw up an implementation plan. Third, to co-operate in forestry conservation by exchanging relevant information and technical knowledge. Fourth, to reinforce co-operation on controlling pollution of Dongjiang as well as improving its water quality. Fifth, to enhance the exchange of data on the water quality in the Pearl River Delta Region, so as to formulate a management plan to improve the water quality around the Pearl River estuary. Sixth, to pay close attention to the environmental impact of town planning and development, and to strengthen our co-operation and liaison in these two aspects. We have also agreed to set up a "Joint Working Group on Sustainable Development and Environmental Protection" under the Hong Kong/Guangdong Co-operation Joint Conference to co-ordinate our efforts in these areas. I sincerely hope that our collaboration will be a fruitful and useful one.

121. 廣東省經濟發展很快，近年來也很重視環保，做了大量有益的工作。我很高興告訴大家，就在這一刻，我和廣東省省長盧瑞華先生同時宣布，粵港兩地將進行下列六方面的環保合作：〔一〕在二零零一年年初完成區域內的空氣質素聯合研究，並盡早制定長遠防治策略；〔二〕研究統一粵港車用柴油規格的可行性，並制定行動計劃；〔三〕在林業護理方面合作，包括交換資料及技術知識；〔四〕進一步加強合作，控制東江污染及改善水質；〔五〕加強珠江三角洲水質數據交流，以期共同制定管理方案，改善珠江河口一帶的水質；〔六〕共同關注城市規劃和發展對環境的影響，並加強這兩方面的合作和聯繫。雙方更同意在粵港合作聯席會議下成立「持續發展與環保合作小組」，統籌上述工作。我祝願雙方的合作取得美滿成果。

E.   Adhering to the Principle of Sustainable Development

五、貫徹可持續發展原則

122. There are various factors contributing to sustainable development. Today, I will touch on three of them - institutional framework, social commitment and the environmental protection industry.

122. 貫徹可持續發展原則，需多個要素配合。我今天簡單地和大家討論其中三點，那就是組織架構、共同承擔及環保行業。

Institutional Framework

組織架構

123. I intend to set up a Council for Sustainable Development. Its functions will be to provide expert advice to the Government and keep the public regularly informed about its work, so that we can build a better understanding of the concept of sustainable development. It will also encourage the community to put the concept of sustainable development into practice. To further this objective, I propose that a $100 million grant be made to support community initiatives on sustainable development especially on educational programmes for citizens and students to develop a strong awareness of sustainability. The Council will report to me. Its relationship with other consultative bodies will be considered carefully, to ensure integration and the building of partnerships. Within the Administration, all bureaux will in future be required to carry out "sustainability impact assessments" of major new policy proposals. A Sustainable Development Unit will be established to monitor these assessments and provide analysis and support to the Council.

123. 首先，我打算成立「可持續發展委員會」，負責向政府提供專家意見，定期向市民匯報工作，增進大眾對「可持續發展」的了解，並鼓勵各界身體力行。為此，我提議政府撥出一億元，以資助公眾提出的各項新計劃，特別是一些教育活動，以增強市民及學生的「可持續發展」意識。委員會將直接向我負責，政府將小心研究委員會與其他環保諮詢組織的關係，以利整體合作。此外，我將規定，今後各決策局提出新的重要政策建議時，須對可持續發展的影響作出評估。政府將另設一個「可持續發展科」，負責監察上述評估和有關工作，並向委員會提供分析和支援。

Shared Commitment

共同承擔

124. To implement the various programmes that I have outlined, the Government will need to spend over $30 billion in the next ten years. This is without doubt an enormous sum, but as we all know, these infrastructural facilities are vital to the protection of public health. They are as indispensable as well-equipped hospitals, good schools and decent housing to a modern city. If we are reluctant to pay the cost today, we will have to pay more in future when the pollution problem gets worse. There can be no greater folly than this.

124. 進行各項環保工程，政府未來十年須動用超過三百億元。這筆開支無疑十分龐大，但是，大家知道，這方面的基建對保障市民健康至為重要，正如完善的醫院、學校和房屋建設一樣，都是現代化都市不可或缺的。而且，這筆錢今天不付，到明天污染更嚴重時，便得加倍付出，最終是愚不可及。

125. The key issue of concern is the question of who is to pay for the day-to-day operating and maintenance costs of the anti-pollution facilities whose capital costs have been paid for by the Government. The recurrent costs for handling sewage alone will total $1.1 billion this year and are expected to rise to $3 billion a year in ten years' time. It is everyone's responsibility to prevent and control pollution. In my view, it is only fair for the users and polluters to fully cover these recurrent costs through payment of charges. In future, when seeking approval for capital funding for sewerage programmes or waste disposal facilities, we will be asking Members of this Council to consider the issue of charges at the same time.

125. 還有一個大家都應關注的問題，就是政府斥巨資建成防治各種污染的設施後，日常運作和保養費用應該由誰來負擔。今年，單是排放和處理污水的經常開支已達十一億元；十年之後估計將增至每年三十億元。防治污染，人人有責；我認為最合理的做法，就是由政府向污染者及用者徵收足夠費用，支付經常開支。日後，我們向立法會申請撥款興建排污或廢物處理設施時，將請議員一併考慮收費問題。

Environmental Protection Industry

環保行業

126. Effective environmental protection calls for a well-developed supporting industry. While the cost to the community of environmental protection is considerable, it will bring about many new jobs and business opportunities. Our business sector, researchers and financial institutions should explore more actively opportunities in the environmental protection market. To support this development, the Government will do its best to eliminate hurdles in our institutional and legal frameworks in a bid to make Hong Kong a showcase for a quality environment; and one which is able to offer comprehensive services, such as financial, technical and consultancy advice to support environmental improvements in the Asia-Pacific Region. If Hong Kong can become a pioneer in developing a set of innovative environmental protection technologies which are suitable for the Region, we can help create a green and sustainable environment not only for our own future generations, but also for our neighbours.

126. 環保工作要有健全的環保行業支持。社會付出的成本固然不低，但亦可帶來大量新的就業和營商機會。本港的工商業、研究人員和金融機構應多在這個環保市場尋找機會。為支持這方面的發展，政府將有所配合，努力消除一切組織架構和法例方面的阻力，促使香港成為環保典範，能積極為亞太區內的環境改善工作提供金融、技術和顧問等綜合服務。如果香港能率先發展一套適合亞太區的創新環保技術，不單能為我們的後代創造環境優美、能持續發展的社會，更能惠及區內其他人民。

F.   A Quality Living Environment

六、優質生活環境

127. A world-class city must have a pleasant and safe living environment. We must therefore do the following: first, implement urban renewal thoroughly; second, protect the natural environment of our countryside; and third, fully utilise and beautify the Victoria Harbour in an integrated fashion.

127. 世界一流的城市，不能沒有舒適、安全、優美的生活環境。因此我們必須做三件事：一是徹底重建舊區；二是保護郊區自然環境；三是搞好維港的美化和綜合利用。

Urban Renewal and Protection of Our Heritage

重建舊區保護文物

128. At present, there are many citizens still living in dilapidated buildings in old, run-down urban areas. Very often, this does not mean just poor living conditions, but risks to their safety and health as well. I have visited some of these old urban areas, and what I have seen has impressed on me the urgency of taking a new and more proactive urban renewal approach to bring real improvements to the living conditions of these residents. Out of the existing 8 500 urban buildings which are over 30 years old, some 2 200 require redevelopment or extensive repairs. Another 3 900 or so also require repairs of varying scale. In 10 years' time, the number of buildings over 30 years old will increase by 50%. This means that the aging problem of buildings is getting worse.

128. 目前香港仍有不少市民生活在市容殘舊、樓宇失修的舊區當中，不但生活環境惡劣，而且安全和健康都時刻受到威脅。我曾到一些舊區探訪，深深體會到有必要制定一套新的、更積極的市區重建方略，徹底改善這些居民的生活環境。目前，市區內八千五百幢樓齡超過三十年的樓宇之中，約二千二百幢需重建或大規模修葺，另外約三千九百幢也需不同程度的維修。十年後，樓齡超過三十年的樓宇將增加一半。樓宇老化問題日益嚴重。

The Urban Renewal Authority

市區重建局

129. The Land Development Corporation (LDC), which has been shouldering the arduous task of urban renewal, has completed a number of redevelopment projects, though not without difficulties. The obstacles include a protracted land acquisition process and a shortage of rehousing resources. It would take us at least 30 years to complete all the priority redevelopment projects. At this pace, we would not be able to arrest the overall deterioration of the urban areas. With this in mind, we intend to set up an Urban Renewal Authority (URA) next year to replace the LDC. The URA will be entrusted with powers to assemble land for redevelopment. Our proposals for the establishment of the URA will be set out in a White Bill to be published for public consultation later this month. We aim to introduce a bill into this Council early next year. When the URA is established and the new initiatives are implemented, we believe that all priority projects can be completed within two decades, instead of three as previously estimated.

129. 土地發展公司一直肩負舊區重建的重擔，完成了多項重建計劃，但也遇到繁冗的收地程序和安置居民的資源不足等障礙。要完成優先的重建計劃，需時至少三十年。以這樣的步伐，無法防止市區整體老化。因此，我們打算明年成立市區重建局，取代土地發展公司。新機構將有權徵集土地作綜合發展。本月稍後，我們將發表白紙條例草案，闡述建議和徵詢公眾意見。我們希望在明年年初向立法會提交條例草案。成立市區重建局及執行新措施後，原先預計需時三十年才完成的優先重建計劃，可望在二十年內全部完成。

Comprehensive Redevelopment of Old Urban Areas

舊區綜合重建

130. The new approach to urban renewal aims at facilitating comprehensive planning over larger areas, providing additional open space, green belts, and community facilities and improving road networks while preserving the distinctive features of the old districts concerned. Our urban renewal programme will focus on nine old urban areas, namely Ma Tau Kok, Tai Kok Tsui, Sham Shui Po, Yau Ma Tei, Yau Tong, Kwun Tong, Sai Ying Pun, Wan Chai and Tsuen Wan. Under-utilised industrial areas will also be included in our redevelopment programme to allow use for other purposes.

130. 新的重建策略將以較大的範圍進行綜合規劃，增加休憩用地、社區設施和綠化範圍，改善道路網絡，同時盡量保持舊區的固有特色。重建工作將集中於九個舊區，包括馬頭角、大角咀、深水埗、油麻地、油塘、觀塘、西營盤、灣仔和荃灣。一些使用率低的工業區，也將納入重建計劃，調整用途。

131. Financing arrangements will be put in place for the implementation of urban renewal projects. These include waiver of land premia for urban renewal sites, and packaging redevelopment projects so that financially viable projects can cross-subsidise non-viable projects. Loans will also be provided where necessary, and the residents affected will be properly rehoused.

131. 政府將作多項財政安排，協助市區重建，包括豁免重建地段補地價，綜合考慮重建方案，以有利可圖的項目補貼可能虧蝕的項目等。必要時，政府還可提供重建貸款。受重建計劃影響的居民，將獲妥善安置。

132. Under this new urban renewal strategy, we will also focus on the proper maintenance of buildings. It should be pointed out that old buildings are not necessarily dilapidated. The main culprit is the absence of regular repairs. Unfortunately, attempts to legislate on building maintenance to ensure owners' compliance have not been well received. I would like to take this opportunity to appeal again to all of you for your support of our work in this area. The Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands will announce shortly a proposal for a statutory scheme of preventive maintenance of buildings for public consultation. If this proposal is supported, then not only the residents and landlords concerned, but the entire community will benefit.

132. 新的重建策略還着重樓宇維修。應當指出的是，樓齡高並不等於老化，關鍵是有沒有定期修葺。政府為確保業主定期維修樓宇，曾試圖制訂有關法例，可惜未獲普遍支持。我現在再度呼籲大家支持政府在這方面的努力。規劃環境地政局局長稍後將公布一套法定的樓宇預防性維修計劃建議，徵詢民意。建議通過之後，受益者將不單是這些樓宇的住客和業主，還有廣大市民。

Preserving Our Heritage

保護文物

133. It is important to rehabilitate and preserve unique buildings as this not only accords with our objective of sustainable development but also facilitates the retention of the inherent characteristics of different districts, and helps promote tourism. The concept of preserving our heritage should be incorporated into all projects for redeveloping old areas. The Government will review the existing heritage policy and related legislation for better protection of historic buildings and archaeological sites.

133. 我要強調，修復和保存別具特色的建築物，不但符合可持續發展的目標，有利於保存不同地區固有文化，更可幫助旅遊業發展。舊區重建工作，要以保護文物的觀念貫串。政府一直在做這方面的工作，並將檢討現行文物政策和有關法例，加強保護具有歷史價值的建築及遺迹。

Nature Conservation

保護大自然

134. Amidst the rapid pace of city life in the 21st Century, it is important that we preserve our countryside. Taking advantage of the beautiful natural landscape of Lantau Island and Sai Kung District, we intend to develop these two areas into centres of recreational and leisure activities compatible with the principle of nature conservation. In 2001, we will also substantially extend managed country park areas on Lantau Island, enhance management of countryside areas such as the wetlands in Mai Po, and deploy more artificial reefs. Meanwhile, the afforestation programme in country parks is making good progress. Over the past two years, with the support of various sectors in the community, more than a million trees have been planted. As we continue our efforts in this area, we will also draw up a comprehensive conservation policy and work with different sectors in the community on urban greening and urban greenery protection. Together we will strive to make Hong Kong a green model for Asia.

134. 在二十一世紀節奏急促的都市裏，我們更必須替市民保育大自然。大嶼山和西貢區的自然環境優美，我們打算在保護大自然的前提下，把這兩個地區闢為康樂消閒活動區。我們將於二零零一年大規模擴展大嶼山受管制的郊野公園範圍，致力妥善管理米埔濕地等郊野地區，以及投放更多人工魚礁等。另外，郊野公園的植樹計劃進展很快。兩年來，得到各界人士的支持，已種植樹苗一百多萬棵；在繼續這項工作的同時，我們將草擬一個綜合的大自然保育政策，並和各界人士合作，努力把市區綠化，令原有樹木生長茂盛，致力把香港變成亞洲的綠化模範城市。

A More Beautiful Harbour

更美麗的維港

135. Victoria Harbour is an integral part of Hong Kong that we all treasure. It deserves all our efforts to protect it and make it more beautiful. For this reason, we have decided to scale back the reclamation planned for the Harbour.

135. 談到香港，不能不提維多利亞港。維港是我們的珍貴資產，值得我們盡力保護和美化。正因如此，我們已決定縮減維港填海計劃。

136. Moreover, we will make land available along the waterfront for promenades and walkways so that our citizens and visitors can stay away from the hubbub of the city, stroll along the promenades and enjoy the beautiful scenery and refreshing sea breeze. On the open space on both sides of the Harbour from Lei Yue Mun in the east to Kennedy Town in the west, we will provide open plazas, landscaped areas, marinas, shops and restaurants with distinct cultural flavours. The arts, recreational and entertainment opportunities offered will enrich Hong Kong's quality of life, and fascinate tourists with Hong Kong's unique culture, a blend of Chinese and Western elements. In particular, we are planning to develop a major performance venue in the West Kowloon Reclamation and a sports complex in Southeast Kowloon to serve the community and attract tourists. Both will be designed to world-class standards and will help put Hong Kong on the map as the events capital of Asia.

136. 此外，我們會在海港兩岸撥地建設海濱長堤和行人通道，讓市民和遊客可在鬧市中脫離塵囂，沿維港兩岸長堤漫步，沐浴清風，欣賞朝暉晚霞、海光山色。還有，我們將在兩岸的空地上，東起鯉魚門，西至堅尼地城，建設多個露天廣場、花木種植區、遊艇停泊點，以及有文化特色的商店食肆。這些場地可用來舉辦文娛康體活動，使市民生活更添姿采，遊客更可從中感受香港中西文化交匯的魅力。我們更計劃在西九龍填海區撥地建設一個大型演藝中心，在九龍東南部建設一個綜合體育場館，除了滿足巿民的需求之外，更可吸引遊客。這兩項建設，都要達到世界水準，讓香港有條件成為亞洲盛事之都。

137. In the plans for developing Southeast Kowloon, West Kowloon Reclamation, Wan Chai, Central and Western District, the waterfront should be reserved for the above amenities. Traffic corridors should be built as underground or semi-submerged roads to alleviate noise and air pollution as well as to improve the visual aspect. The development of the waterfront of the reclamations in Central and Wan Chai, and East and West Kowloon presents us with the opportunity to give Victoria Harbour a face lift. We will hold an open competition and invite local professionals as well as those from all over the world to help us create a new look for our Harbour in the new millennium.

137. 在擬訂九龍東南部、西九龍填海區、港島灣仔、中區、西區的發展計劃時，應保留海濱作上述美化用途。汽車交通走廊應建於地下或採用半地下形式，以紓緩噪音和空氣污染，改善景觀。有待發展的中區、灣仔，及東、西九龍填海區，更可讓我們把維港妝扮得更華美。我們將舉辦公開比賽，讓香港和海外最有才華的設計師為我們在新紀元裏勾劃出維港的新風貌。

G.  Summing Up

七、小結

138. If we are to completely overhaul our living environment, there are still many other issues that merit our attention. For example, we have on our agenda the prevention and control of noise, as well as energy efficiency in building design. The respective Policy Secretaries will brief you on the details of these later.

138. 要徹底美化生活環境，還得注意很多其他方面，例如噪音污染的防治、節省能源的屋宇設計等，都已列入政府的工作日程。這些詳情，有關局長稍後會向大家報告。

139. Our environment is deteriorating, pollution is serious, urban areas have become dilapidated, and the residential environment leaves many people dissatisfied. The problem did not arise overnight. No matter how hard the Government tries, it will not be able to accomplish the task of reversing the decline in one go and get all the problems solved tomorrow. But this underscores why we have to translate our words into action immediately. On the threshold of the 21st Century, we have a choice between increasing degradation of our environment, which will endanger our health and hamper the development of our economy, and a future in which respect for our environment will enhance our prosperity and the quality of our own lives and those of generations to come. The choice is quite obvious. Sustainable development need not be a trade-off between wealth and the environment.

139. 香港生活環境惡化，各種污染嚴重，相當多的地區市容欠佳，令很多市民不滿。冰封三尺，非一日之寒，故無論政府如何努力，也不能一蹴而就，明天便把所有問題解決；但這更說明我們得坐言起行，不能再拖。在二十一世紀將臨之際，我們面對的是兩個選擇︰一是任由生活環境繼續惡化，以致大家身心受損，經濟發展不能持續；二是決意保護環境，務求經濟日益繁榮之餘，不斷提升生活質素，為自己和後代建設更美好的將來。我們的選擇應是很清楚的。生活富足與環境優美，絕對可以兼得，發展絕對可以持續。

140. I have just talked about the two most urgent tasks before us, that is developing talented people and making Hong Kong an ideal home. To build a world-class city, however, much needs to be done in various areas, namely upgrading our infrastructure, enhancing Hong Kong's competitiveness, improving the business environment, rationalising market operation and encouraging the development of a more open market, creating an environment conducive to innovation and scientific research, pressing on with our plans to improve the public administrative structure and efficiency, promoting cultural and sports activities, and boosting the image of Hong Kong in the international community. All these have a direct bearing on the well-being of our citizens and therefore deserve the concerted efforts of the SAR Government and the community at large.

140. 我剛剛談過眼前最迫切的兩項工作，就是培養人才和建設美好家園。但是，要建設世界級都會，今後還需多方面工作配合，包括加強基建、提高香港競爭力、改善營商環境、改善市場運作和提高開放程度、營造有利於創新和科研的環境、繼續完善公共架構和提高效率、推廣文娛康體活動、加強對外推介香港的形象等等。這些都直接關乎香港市民福祉，值得特區政府和民眾共同探討和努力。

VI. The Foundation of Prosperity and Progress

己、繁榮進步的基石

141. To achieve even greater success in the next century, Hong Kong must not only have people of high calibre and a quality environment, but also sound institutions and a basic structure which is conducive to economic prosperity. We must also have a caring and decent value system that attaches great importance to our people's cultural and spiritual life. I would like to touch briefly on the main issues.

141. 香港要在下一世紀取得更大成就，除了要有一流的人才和環境之外，更有賴健全的制度保障、有利於經濟繁榮的基本架構、仁厚寬容的價值觀念，以及對於文化和精神生活質素的重視。現在我就這幾方面扼要談一下。

A.  Our Institutions

一、制度保障

Promoting the Basic Law

推廣普及《基本法》

142. The Basic Law underpins our institutions. This enables us to build a quality society with unique characteristics. The rule of law, a clean administration, freedom of the press, protection of the freedoms and rights of the individual, are all essential elements contributing to the success of Hong Kong. The SAR Government will do its best to protect these valuable assets. Next year will be the tenth anniversary of the promulgation of the Basic Law. The SAR Government will organise a series of activities to promote better understanding of the Basic Law and to encourage relevant research. The Government will also seek to enhance mutual understanding between Hong Kong and the Mainland of each other's legal systems. It is important that we do our utmost to maintain our existing system. Yet at the same time, we should work towards better mutual understanding of our two systems, and better understanding of our country. Only with full understanding of "One Country" can we successfully maintain "Two Systems". I am confident that with increased communication, better understanding and more experience, there will be greater consensus on the implementation of the provisions of the Basic Law, and that this will thus further strengthen the foundation for the rule of law in the Hong Kong SAR.

142. 《基本法》確立了我們的制度架構，讓我們可以建設具有本身特色的優質社會。法治、廉政、新聞自由、維護個人的自由和權利等等，都是香港賴以成功的要素，特區政府將竭盡所能保護這些寶貴的資產。明年是《基本法》頒布十周年，特區政府將舉辦一系列活動，加強推廣普及《基本法》和推動有關的研究，並努力促進香港與內地對彼此法律制度的認識。我們要致力維護現行制度，同時，我們也要增進兩制之間的相互了解，加深對祖國的認識；只有真正認識「一國」，才能夠成功維護「兩制」。我有信心，隨着更多的溝通和了解，再加上經驗的累積，對《基本法》各項內容的具體落實，將有更大的共識，香港特別行政區的法治基礎將更形穩固。

 

Rule of Law

法治

143. The rule of law, in which I firmly believe, is fundamental to our success. It is precisely because of the full implementation of the Basic Law after the reunification that we have been able to continue to practise and develop the common law system in Hong Kong. This constitutional arrangement put in place under the "One Country, Two Systems" principle is unique.

143. 法治是香港成功的基礎，也是我堅定不移的信念。回歸以來，就是因為《基本法》在香港全面實施，才使香港的普通法制得以繼續實行及發展。「一國兩制」下的這個憲制安排獨特，相信是世上絕無僅有的。

144. With a new constitutional arrangement, there are bound to be teething problems which need to be handled carefully. I am sure our legal system will operate much more smoothly given time and experience. On the right of abode issue, we solved an important and difficult problem for Hong Kong in full accordance with the powers vested in us by the Basic Law and its prescribed procedures. There are divergent views within the community on this issue. However, the fact is that by resolving the right of abode issue, we have succeeded in protecting long-term the interests of the community while at the same time upholding the rule of law.

144. 當然，在新憲制實施初期，必有一些問題出現，需要各方謹慎處理。經過不斷積累經驗之後，就會運行暢順。在處理居留權問題上，特區政府是完全按照《基本法》賦予的權力和規定的程序，為香港解決了一個很重要和很困難的問題。就這一類法律問題，社會上有很不同的意見。但事實是，通過對居留權的處理，我們維護了社會的長遠利益，同時亦維護了法治。

145. I firmly believe that all are equal before the law, and I will do my very best to uphold the rule of law in Hong Kong. Our legal system has always run well. Our police are maintaining law and order as always. The judiciary remains independent with the same judges hearing cases in the same fashion as they did before the reunification. Hundreds of thousands of cases are heard each year with the Government sometimes finding itself on the losing side.

145. 我堅信在法律面前，人人平等。我將竭盡所能，捍衞香港的法治。香港特區的法制一直運作良好。一如既往，警隊致力執法，維持治安。過渡以前的法官繼續留任，每天如常在特區的法庭獨立審判案件，每年審結的案件以數十萬計；政府也時有敗訴。

Constitutional Development

政制發展

146. Since the reunification, we have witnessed a strong interest on the part of the community to participate in public affairs. The SAR Government is committed to the progressive development of our democratic institutions in accordance with the Basic Law. Our two top priorities are to prepare for the District Councils elections in November and for the second Legislative Council election to be held next September. The Secretary for Constitutional Affairs will give further details.

146. 回歸以來，市民參與社會事務的意識高漲。特區政府按照《基本法》循序漸進發展香港的民主政制。當前要務，是為今年十一月的區議會選舉和明年九月的第二屆立法會選舉作好準備。有關細節，政制事務局局長會更詳細交代。

147. In accordance with the spirit of the Basic Law, we need to establish an executive-led political structure. Over the past two years, the executive authorities and the legislature have explored ways to establish a co-operative relationship based on mutual checks and balances. I hope that both the executive authorities and the legislature will perform their specific functions in accordance with the Basic Law and work closely together in the interests of the community. My Administration will make still greater efforts to maintain communication with the Legislative Council and secure its greater support.

147. 根據《基本法》的精神，我們需要確立一個行政主導的政治架構。過去兩年多，特區的行政與立法兩者一直通過實踐和探索，建立既相互制衡又相互配合的關係。我希望行政機關和立法機關根據《基本法》，發揮各自應有的職能，並以社會整體利益為重，盡量緊密合作。特區政府會更努力與立法會溝通，爭取立法會的更大支持。

148. In my last Policy Address, I said that the two Municipal Councils will not be retained as from the year 2000. The new streamlined framework will facilitate better co-ordinated and more efficient, and hence more cost-effective delivery of municipal services. More importantly, it will allow further participation by those in the fields of arts, culture, recreation and sports. This is conducive to the development of such activities in Hong Kong. I hope Honourable Members of this Council will give us their support.

148. 我在去年的施政報告中提出，從明年開始，不再設市政局和區域市政局。在新的精簡架構下，市政服務的協調將更有效率，成本效益亦將提高。更重要的是，文藝康體界可有更多機會參與，這有利於推展相關活動。希望議員對此給予支持。

149. The first District Councils (DCs) of the Hong Kong SAR will come into being on 1 January 2000. As I promised last year, the role of the new DCs will be enhanced. We will invite DC Chairmen and the newly created Vice Chairmen to join the District Management Committees. We will assist the DCs in promoting cultural, recreational and sports activities and in monitoring local environmental hygiene. We will appoint more DC Members to various advisory committees on livelihood matters. Moreover, we will provide additional funding for improving the local environment, promoting district activities, and increasing the accountable allowances of DC Members. Government departments will have closer co-operation and communication with the DCs and the various advisory bodies.

149. 香港特別行政區首屆區議會將於明年一月一日誕生。正如我去年承諾，區議會的功能將有所加強。我們將邀請區議會主席及新增設的副主席加入地區管理委員會，亦會協助區議會推動文娛康體活動和監察區內環境衞生，委任更多區議員加入其他與民生有關的諮詢機構。我們也將增加環境建設和地區活動的撥款，以及提高區議員的實報實銷津貼。各政府部門將與區議會和各諮詢組織衷誠合作。

150. As for the development of our political system, I have heard divergent views. Some say now is the time to quicken our pace towards universal suffrage or, at least, to start examining and discussing this issue. Others say we should be more cautious as we have been going too fast. In my view, the pace of democratic development must be in step with the actual situation in Hong Kong. We must allow time for further study and for the present political system to mature. The Basic Law has laid down a 10-year timetable to enable us to consider the next step forward in the light of our political experience during that time. I hope that by 2007, a mature view will have emerged in the community on the development of the political structure which will help us to decide on the strategy and the steps needed for its further development.

150. 關於政制發展問題，我不斷聽到不同的意見。有人對我說，現在就要開始加快普選步伐，起碼應該研究和討論這個問題。也有人對我說，這方面應該審慎，現在已經走得太快。我認為，推動民主進程，必須切合香港實際情況，尤其應讓目前運作中的政制有一個探索和成熟的過程。《基本法》給我們訂下了十年時間，讓我們可以根據本身的政治實踐，思考下一步的發展。我希望，到二零零七年時，社會上對政制發展將出現成熟的意見，有助決定發展政制的策略和步驟。

Introducing Reforms while Maintaining Stability

改革穩中求進

151. Earlier, I said that our institutions provide the basis for our development. Over the years, we have put in place well-established systems and structures which enjoy the confidence of our community and investors, such as our highly-admired administrative structure and the civil service. On the other hand, there are areas that clearly need reforms. Some of the existing systems and procedures may not be able to adapt to the changes and demands of the new era. Since Hong Kong has enjoyed a high degree of autonomy following the reunification, it is also only natural that the community has greater expectations of the Government. Moreover there is still room for improvement. Given the changing circumstances and rising aspirations, standing still is simply not an option. During the past two years, the Government has been determined to remove any weaknesses through reform. Also there have been voices in the community supporting and urging faster reforms. Some worry, however, that we may be attempting too much, too quickly.

151. 我剛才講到，香港的發展要靠制度保障。多年來，香港在各方面建立了健全的制度，得到市民和外來投資者信賴。例如我們的行政體制和公務員的質素，向來備受稱許。但一些體制和政策顯然必須改革。這是由於社會不斷發展，一些原有的體制和措施未必適應新時代的要求。也由於回歸以來，我們實行高度自治，市民對政府有了較高的期望；再就是我們本來已有需要改進的地方。面對形勢不斷發展、社會要求不斷提高，固步自封不是出路。兩年來，政府下決心對本身的一些缺點進行改革。社會上也出現不少支持和催促改革的呼聲，但也有一些人擔心現在改革「火頭」太多、步伐太快。

152. The reforms that we are talking about can be broadly grouped into three types. The first is related to the improvement to some market mechanisms and injecting greater vitality into our markets. The second is the rationalisation of the Government's basic policies or delivery systems. The third is the modernisation of the civil service structure which involves government efficiency.

152. 我們講的改革，大致可分為三類：第一類是改善市場機制和令市場更活躍；第二類是把政府某些基本政策或提供服務的安排合理化；第三類是公務員體制現代化和涉及政府效率的改革。

153. Reforms of the first type include the strengthening of the linked exchange rate regime and the merger of the two exchanges. These reforms will remove some of the weaknesses which surfaced in the financial turmoil and further strengthen our position as a financial centre. These two initiatives are the inevitable consequence of changing circumstances. As they are steps in the right direction and have been taken at the right time, they have a very good chance of success. With regard to the privatisation of a part of the shares of the MTRC, this allows the community to participate in the ownership of a successful and profitable public corporation, and the introduction of private ownership will reinforce the MTRC's commitment to competitiveness and efficiency.

153. 屬於第一類改革的，包括鞏固聯繫匯率機制，以及合併兩個交易所。這些改革將剔除一些在金融風暴中顯露出來的弱點，進一步鞏固我們作為金融中心的地位。這是形勢使然，亦可謂瓜熟蒂落。至於地鐵公司部分股權的私有化，讓市民可以參與擁有一家成功而具有盈利的公共公司，以及加強地鐵公司提高效率和競爭力的決心。

154. The second type of reform is the rationalisation of the Government's basic policies or administrative structure, such as education reforms and the dissolution of the Municipal Councils. In the welfare sector, reform of the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) Scheme is being implemented in order to look after more people who are suffering financial hardship during the economic downturn, without dampening the CSSA recipients' incentive to work, and at the same time, ensuring that the Scheme serves as a long term safety net. Moreover, we will also introduce reform to our existing subvention system, so as to enhance the cost effectiveness of services provided and to improve public accountability. As regards the health care system, we anticipate difficulties in the longer term and we have commissioned an early consultancy study. For the time being, we are still in the stage of deliberation and consultation - it is not our intention to rush this reform.

154. 第二類改革，是政府某些基本政策或提供服務的安排合理化，例如我剛才講到的教育改革，以及不再設兩個市政局。社會福利方面，有關綜援計劃的改革，目的是要在經濟不景氣之下，照顧遭遇困難的人士，又不減低他們就業的積極性，同時確保綜援計劃長期發揮安全網的作用。另外，我們亦會在現有資助福利制度方面引進改革，以加強服務的成本效益和對公眾的問責性。至於醫療制度，我們看出長遠會有問題，所以及早委託顧問進行研究。現在我們還處於思考和諮詢階段，不會草率行事。

155. The third type of reform covers the modernisation of the civil service, productivity enhancement, and entry pay adjustment. These reforms are being implemented gradually after full consultation and careful deliberation. The aim is to improve our services and efficiency. After reform, the quality of government services will be enhanced. The general public supports these reforms, which are proceeding smoothly. We will proceed prudently and make every effort to maintain the morale and stability of the civil service. Any reform proposals which might affect a large number of existing staff will be implemented in an orderly manner. We will consult the staff affected and listen to the views expressed by the Central Staff Consultative Councils in formulating specific proposals. In the process of reform, we will endeavour to make reasonable arrangements for serving staff and will avoid staff redundancies as far as possible through inter-departmental redeployment, secondment and staff retraining.

155. 第三種改革，即公務員體制現代化、資源增值，以及入職薪酬的調整。這些改革都是通過充分諮詢，小心研究，才逐步推行，目標是改善服務及提高效益；改革以後，政府的服務質素，只會提升，不會下降。這些改革得到市民廣泛支持，目前也進行得相當好。我們會謹慎行事，盡力維持公務員隊伍的士氣和穩定，有秩序地推行任何可能影響眾多現職員工的改革計劃。在制訂具體建議時，我們會充分諮詢受影響的員工，亦會仔細聽取各公務員中央評議會的意見。我們會通過加強部門間的人手調配及借調與再培訓等措施，使現職員工得到合理的安排，盡力避免通過裁員來遣散受影響的員工。

156. Another reform to improve the Government's efficiency concerns proposals to corporatise or privatise individual departments. At present, we will concentrate on the scheme for private sector involvement in the estate management work of the Housing Department. In the process of reform, we will ensure that the legitimate rights of serving civil servants are protected. With respect to other departments, we will conduct in-depth studies and consulations before we take any further steps.

156. 另外涉及政府效率的改革，是個別部門的公司化或私營化方案。目前，我們會集中精力處理好房屋署的屋邨管理私營化工作。在改革過程中，我們一定會保障現職公務員的法定權益。至於其他部門，我們會經過深入的研究和討論後，從長計議。

157. When we consider the reforms mentioned above, we will give careful consideration to the issues in question, prioritise the reforms, and carry out extensive public consultation. We will also take into full account the prevailing circumstances and the impact on the community. Moreover, in seeking reforms, we will do so step by step paying due attention to the need to maintain the community's prosperity and stability. Depending on the individual circumstances, we will introduce reforms in different areas at varying speeds and by different means. I am confident that by implementing reforms step by step in a well-planned manner, we will be able to build a better society.

157. 我們考慮以上提到的改革時，都公開徵詢各方意見，審慎考慮，區分先後緩急，而且必定審時度勢，對社會的承受能力有充分的估計，以社會繁榮安定為重，堅持穩中求變，在不同範疇採取不同的適當改革步伐和方式。我相信，經過有計劃、有步驟地推行各種改革，香港社會將建設得更美好。

B.   Government's Role in the Economy

二、政府的經濟角色

158. Here I would like to talk about the role of the SAR Government in our economy. As we all know, Hong Kong's remarkable economic success over the past few decades owes a great deal to our free and market-oriented economy with fair competition. The Government is committed to building the foundation for the healthy development of the market according to sound economic principles. It is only when the market mechanism is not working properly that the Government steps in and exercises necessary and limited intervention. Since its inception, the SAR Government has carried on the tradition of fiscal prudence and small government. All the Government's economic endeavours are infrastructure related. Infrastructure can be divided into two major categories: software and hardware. The former includes the framework for education, environment, rule of law, regulation of specific markets, etc., whereas the latter includes public facilities for air, sea and land transportation, tourism, communications, information technology, as well as scientific research, etc. Before decisions on infrastructure are taken, the Government invariably undertakes extensive consultations to get a clear picture of the economic trends and market dynamics, and considers the general direction of our strategic development. All our strategic initiatives are market-oriented and designed to support the development of the private sector. Of course, in the face of rapid changes and fierce competition, the SAR Government ought to, and in fact does, respond more quickly on the economic front than before. Yet the guiding principles and the nature of our work have not changed.

158. 現在讓我談一下特區政府在經濟方面的角色。眾所周知，香港數十年來經濟表現非凡，主要倚靠市場主導、公平競爭的自由經濟體制。政府在符合經濟規律的原則下，積極為市場健康發展打好基礎，只有在市場機制失效時，才作出必要而有限度的干預。特區政府成立以來，一如既往，堅持審慎理財和小政府的方針，所做的經濟建設工作，集中在基礎設施範疇之內。所謂基礎設施，可分軟、硬兩大類。前者包括教育、環境、法治、個別市場監管及其他制度。後者則包括海陸空運輸、旅遊、通訊、資訊技術、科研等方面的公共建設。政府提供這些設施之前，必先集思廣益，透徹了解經濟大勢和市場動態，考慮策略發展大方向後才作出決定。所有策略都必須是以市場為主導、配合私營經濟發展為原則。當然，處於變化急促、競爭劇烈的環境中，特區政府在經濟領域的反應比以前更快，但主導這些工作的原則和工作的性質則沒有變。

C.  Our Society and Culture

三、社會與文化

159. A bright future for Hong Kong encompasses not only economic progress, but also the building of a caring, decent society with a rich cultural life.

159. 香港要有美好的前途，除了經濟發展以外，仁厚寬容的社會風氣和優秀的文化環境也是必要的。

Helping the New Arrivals

幫助新來港定居人士

160. We cherish family reunion. Many people in Hong Kong have relatives on the Mainland. Through an orderly arrival arrangement, 54 000 family members of Hong Kong people are allowed to come from the Mainland and settle here each year. This is no small figure. The new arrivals are also members of our society and they will contribute to our future development. To help the new arrivals integrate into society more easily, the Government has introduced a wide range of measures, such as providing them with various kinds of information and tailor-made courses, as well as offering financial assistance for the education of their children.

160. 我們向來重視家庭團聚。許多香港市民在內地有親屬。我們通過有秩序的安排，每年接受五萬四千名在內地的港人親屬前來定居，這不是一個小數目。新來港定居人士也是我們社會的成員，是香港未來發展的動力。為了協助他們順利融入社會，政府已採取多項措施，例如提供各類資訊、舉辦特設課程、資助新來港定居人士的子女入學等。

161. I understand that housing is the major problem facing families newly arrived from the Mainland. According to the existing policy of the Housing Authority, families applying for public rental housing should have a majority of their members satisfying the seven years' residence rule before they are allocated housing. Furthermore, the Housing Authority treats non-adult children born in the Mainland to parents who are Hong Kong permanent residents differently from those born in Hong Kong. I have asked the Housing Authority to consider reviewing these criteria so that a family will be eligible for allocation of public rental housing if at least half of its members meet the residence rule; and non-adult children born in the Mainland to parents who are Hong Kong permanent residents will be treated the same as those born in Hong Kong. This will ensure a fairer and more rational approach to the allocation of public housing. I want to emphasise that although more people will be added to the waiting list, the Government is committed to building more public housing flats at a faster rate, thus the waiting time for public housing will still be reduced, not lengthened.

161. 我知道，新來港定居人士面對的一個困難，就是居住問題。根據房屋委員會現時的規定，申請租住公屋的家庭在獲編配單位前，超過半數以上的家庭成員必須在香港住滿七年；此外，房屋委員會對於香港永久居民在香港和在內地所生的未成年子女採取不同的處理方法。我已要求房屋委員會考慮，檢討這些規定，讓合資格的成員數目只需達到半數，而不必超過半數；對於香港永久居民在內地所生的未成年子女，處理上也應等同在香港出生的兒童。這樣，公屋單位的分配將更公平、合理。我想強調，特區政府致力加快興建更多公屋，所以，雖然輪候公屋的人數會增加，輪候公屋的時間卻不會拖長，只會縮短。

162. To help newly arrived children integrate into the local school system, we are looking into the possibility of cross-boundary co-operation. We will follow the example of some voluntary bodies and provide these children with induction services before they arrive in Hong Kong. Such services will range from providing English readers to conducting preparatory courses.

162. 為了好好協助新來港定居的兒童適應香港學制，我們正研究與內地合作，借鑑一些志願團體的經驗，在新來港定居人士抵港前便提供適應服務，包括供應英語讀本、開辦預備課程等。

163. The unemployment rate of the newly arrived is slightly higher than the average rate in Hong Kong. The Labour Department has set up employment and guidance centres to provide employment services for new arrivals. The ERB has also extended its service to new arrivals and will handle applications from those aged below 30 flexibly. In general, all new arrivals who are jobless should be able to join the training courses offered by the ERB.

163. 新來港定居人士的失業率，稍高於香港平均水平。勞工處為他們提供職業輔導，特別設立了就業輔導中心。僱員再培訓局的服務對象範圍亦已擴展，把新來港定居人士也包括在內，並且會彈性處理三十歲以下失業人士的申請，故所有待業的新來港人士，基本上都可以參與再培訓局的課程。

Hong Kong's Culture and Creativity

香港文化和創造力

164. Hong Kong's future development is not just a matter of pushing forward with physical construction. What we also need is a favourable and flourishing cultural environment that is conducive to encouraging innovation and creativity in our citizens. Our reunification with the motherland has enabled us to build on Chinese culture and at the same time draw on Western culture to develop our own distinctive and colourful culture. We will continue to promote public understanding of Chinese culture, history and heritage on the one hand and to enhance our exchanges and communication with the rest of the world on the other, so as to learn from different cultures around the world. Hong Kong possesses a unique cultural history going back several thousand years. This not only helps us to establish our identity but also serves to attract tourists. I have proposed to develop Hong Kong into an international centre for cultural exchanges. This will help to strengthen our identity as a world-class city.

164. 香港未來發展，除物質建設，更必須着重為市民提供優秀的文化環境。豐盛的文化，又造就香港人在各方面的創造力。香港回歸祖國，使我們得以在中國文化為主體的基礎上，吸收西方文化，以開放兼容的態度，發展多采多姿、具有特色的香港文化。我們一面要繼續加深對於中華文化、歷史和傳統的認識，一面增強與世界各地的交往和溝通，借鑑世界各民族的文化成果。香港擁有可以遠溯幾千年的文化遺產，富有姿采而又具特色，有助我們認識自己的身分，也能吸引遊客。我曾經提出香港可以建設成為國際文化交流中心，充分體現我們作為世界都會的特色。

Protecting Intellectual Property Rights

保護知識產權

165. A sound intellectual property rights protection regime is a prerequisite for promoting innovation and investment in technology. We have in place a well-developed legal framework for this purpose and action is being taken to strengthen it. But the key to effective protection of intellectual property rights is compliance with, and enforcement of, the law. Consumers should show their support by boycotting pirated goods. The SAR Government is determined to continue combating piracy through law enforcement and education.

165. 要鼓勵創作和促進科技投資，一個健全的保護知識產權制度是先決的條件。我們這方面的法律已相當完備，目前還在作進一步改善。最關鍵的，還是守法和執法。消費者應該抵制盜版物品。特區政府會繼續通過執法和教育，堅決打擊盜版活動。

Sports

體育發展

166. We have been supporting the extensive promotion of sports development so that our citizens can enjoy vigorous health and a colourful community life. In addition, we have been sending our athletes to take part in national and international events which will help heighten the community's competitive spirit and strengthen our social cohesion. The SAR Government will strive to enhance the quality of our sporting environment through the provision of more educational and training opportunities, as well as additional recreational and sports facilities. We will also actively foster more exchanges in sports with the Mainland and other parts of the world.

166. 我們支持推廣體育運動，使市民有健康的體魄和豐盛的社區生活，而且通過香港代表參加全國性和世界性的比賽，鼓舞我們敢於爭勝，增加我們的凝聚力。特區政府將提供更多教育和訓練機會，以及增建康體設施，提升香港體育質素，並且積極促進香港與內地和世界各地的體育交流。

Moral Values

道德觀念

167. I believe we all desire a society of greater harmony, in which everybody respects and treats others well. We should carry forward our traditional virtues, such as filial piety, humanity, importance attached to education, and diligence. We favour consultation, not confrontation. We seek protection of the rights of the individual, yet we should also fulfil our social responsibilities and obligations. As a responsible government, we will enhance our services and support to the aged, frail, disabled, unemployed and families in need. We also hope that the voluntary organisations will keep up their important contributions.

167. 我相信市民和我一樣，希望社會養成互相尊重、友善待人的風氣，增進社區環境的祥和融洽。我們應該發揚傳統的美德，包括孝順父母，仁愛為懷，重視教育，好學不倦。我們着重的是磋商，而不是對抗。維護個人權利的同時，也要履行社會責任和義務。在政府方面，我們會負起責任，加強服務老弱傷殘、失業人士，繼續向有需要的家庭提供援助，也希望志願團體繼續發揮重要作用。

Media Ethics

傳媒操守

168. The media has an important role to play in creating a decent social and cultural environment. In an open society like Hong Kong, the media exerts influence on our social and cultural ethos every day. Parents, teachers and even media personnel have told me about their concerns over the excessive display of violence and pornography, as well as the sensational and sometimes false news reports made by some members of the media. In fact, a number of local groups have already taken the initiative to promote public awareness of media ethics. The SAR Government will continue to protect press freedom in strict accordance with the Basic Law. But we also believe "press freedom" should not become a pretext for disregarding media ethics. It is inexcusable for any media operator to resort to pornography, violence, libel or misrepresentation simply for profit. There is strong public opinion that we should protect our younger generation from the undesirable influence of violence and pornography. I understand that Members of this Council have held many discussions on the professional ethics and social responsibilities of the media. This is an issue of prime public concern which deserves the Government's due attention.

168. 在建設優秀的社會和文化環境方面，傳播媒介扮演重要的角色。香港社會高度開放，傳媒每一天都在影響着我們的文化和風氣。一些家長、老師，甚至傳媒工作者都曾向我表示，有部分傳媒渲染暴力色情，報道誇張失實，使他們擔憂。目前已有民間團體發起關注傳媒操守的活動。特區政府忠實地執行《基本法》維護新聞自由的條文。但我們也認為，任何人不應該借口「新聞自由」，便忽視傳媒應有的操守，唯利是圖，不惜販賣色情、渲染暴力，以至歪曲誣蔑。市民大眾有強烈的意見，要求保護下一代，使青少年免受暴力和色情污染。我知道立法會議員就傳媒的專業操守和社會責任問題進行過多次討論。這是一個深受公眾關注的問題，也是政府要正視的問題。

169. In addition, the Law Reform Commission has put forward recommendations on the issue of media intrusion on individuals' privacy for public consultation. The SAR Government awaits with interest the outcome of the public consultation exercise. In this respect, I share the hope of our citizens that the media can set higher standards for their professional ethics and truly exercise self-discipline.

169. 另外，法律改革委員會就傳媒侵犯私隱問題而提出的建議，正進行公開諮詢。特區政府正等待諮詢結果。在這方面，我和市民大眾一樣，希望傳媒加強專業操守，真正能夠自律。

VII.        Conclusion

庚、結語

170. Honourable Members, ladies and gentlemen, we are now on the threshold of the 21st Century - a unique and fascinating moment in history.

170. 各位市民、各位議員，我們正處於世紀之交這個獨特又珍貴的時刻。

171. At the turn of the last century, a weak and impoverished China was invaded by foreign powers. China has always been a great nation with industrious, brave and wise people but modern history has seen her decline. Since the founding of the People's Republic of China half a century ago, our fellow countrymen have been striving for progress, and their achievements have impressed the world. On 1 October, the people's pride in modern China was reflected in the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of our National Day in Tiananmen Square. The world witnessed a people full of vigour, hope and confidence. A people who are looking forward to the new era to create a better life for themselves and once again making China a distinguished nation in the world.

171. 在上一個世紀之交，我們的國家正遭受列強入侵，國弱民困。中國人從來是一個偉大、勤勞、勇敢和很有智慧的民族。但是，在近代史上，卻變得落後了。中華人民共和國成立之後，經過半個世紀的奮鬥，終於取得了舉世矚目的成就。十月一日慶祝五十周年國慶的時候，我國在天安門廣場向全世界展示的，是現代中國的驕傲和中華民族奮發昂揚的精神。中華兒女滿懷希望，信心十足地邁向新世紀，創造更加美好的生活，再挺拔於世界優秀民族之林。

172. The fact that we are able to implement the principle of "Hong Kong people running Hong Kong" under the sovereignty of China reflects the progress made. In 1996, when I was a candidate in the election for the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR, I presented my thoughts on the administration of Hong Kong in my platform entitled "Building a 21st Century Hong Kong Together". Today, I still firmly believe that we must:

l        ensure that Hong Kong's economy remains free and vibrant, so that it will continue to play a significant role in the world's economic arena;

l        develop Hong Kong into a highly civilised society which is knowledge-based, affluent, harmonious and caring;

l        cultivate a sense of pride for our new identity and a spirit of continuous self-improvement; and

l        contribute to our country and fellow countrymen as best we can in a way that is commensurate with Hong Kong's status.

 

172. 我們得以在中國主權下實行「港人治港」，正是這個歷史進程的反映。我在一九九六年參加香港特別行政區行政長官選舉時，發表了《共同建設二十一世紀的香港》的選舉綱領，提出了我的治港理念。我堅信，我們一定要：

l   確保香港社會經濟自由而充滿活力，在世界經濟舞台發揮舉足輕重的作用；

l   建立一個以知識為本、祥和富足和有愛心的文明社會；

l   培養一種為新身分感到自豪，自強不息的精神傳統；

l   致力為國家和民族作出與香港地位相稱的貢獻。

173. I believe that my philosophy, which was formed after discussions with people from all walks of life before I took office, reflects the aspirations of most people. Since I took office, I have had more opportunities of meeting people from a wider spectrum of the community. The views they expressed have affirmed my belief. In the last two and a half years, I have followed my belief and also the aspirations of the community in developing long-term plans, and in undertaking immediate tasks. I often recall the families I have met during my visits to the districts and the people I have talked to in buses and on the MTR. I remember well the family of five squeezed in a tiny living space. The new immigrant who had to leave his home in North Point before dawn and travel a long way to his workplace only to earn a meager income, and all the young people attending evening classes after a hard day's work. I was deeply impressed by their remarkable qualities. However difficult the situation, they were determined to work hard and go through hard times in the hope of a better life for themselves and their children. Hong Kong is indeed a city of opportunities. Many citizens have followed this path and have become part of Hong Kong's success story.

173. 我的理念，是上任前與香港各界人士討論的成果，我相信概括了大部份市民的心願。我上任以來，有機會更廣泛接觸各階層的市民，使我更堅定了我的信念。我在過去兩年多所做的一切，就是要把我的理念和市民的心願，貫徹到每一項長期規劃的制訂和反映到每一項必須即時推行的工作之中。在這段時間裏，我會經常想起到各區巡視時探訪過的住戶，以及在巴士和地鐵車廂裏交談過的市民。我會經常記起一家五口是怎樣擠迫在一個細小的居住空間；我會記得住在北角的一位新移民，收入微薄，要起早摸黑到很遠的地方上班；我還會想起一個個晚上到夜校刻苦攻讀的青年。通過這許多交談，我深感香港市民的可貴品德。他們不管目前處境如何艱難，仍然懷着理想和希望，努力奮鬥，為自己和子女改善生活。事實上，香港確是充滿機會的地方。許多背景和他們相似的成功人士，都是憑着自己的拼勁而取得輝煌成就。這就是香港的成功故事。

174. For Hong Kong citizens to enjoy better education, more comfortable housing, a more beautiful environment, better health and more job opportunities, much needs to be done by the Government and the community as a whole. We still need to overcome many difficulties, but I am confident that we can tackle any challenge. What we have achieved in the past two years or so proves we will be able to meet the challenges that come our way, however daunting they may seem. We are already making progress in meeting the pledges that we made. Time will show that we are able to seize new opportunities to build a better future for Hong Kong. Hong Kong's future depends on each and everyone of us. I call on all of us to greet the coming century and new millennium with the will to succeed and the confidence that success will be ours.

174. 為了讓大家有更好的教育、更舒適的居所、更優美的環境、更健康的身體和更多的就業機會，政府需要繼續同市民一起做大量工作。我們還要克服許多困難，但是我會懷著信心去應付種種的挑戰。過去兩年多的事實，已經證明我們有足夠的能力，迎接最嚴峻的考驗；我們提出的目標，現在正逐步得到實現。今後的事實，將進一步證明，我們同樣有足夠的能力，把握機會，創造更加美好的將來。香港的未來，需要全體市民共同創造。我期望全體市民懷着必定成功的信念，以旺盛的鬥志，跨入充滿希望的二十一世紀，邁進我們期待的千年盛世！