Economy must be Hong Kong's top priority
Updated: 2015-03-06 07:15
By Eddy Li(HK Edition)
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'Hong Kong's success has been built on our sound social system and shared values over the decades. People here have different opinions, different likes and dislikes, and different faiths. But, we can still live together harmoniously and our society can still operate effectively. However, events in recent years seem to have impacted on the system and common values," Financial Secretary John Tsang made these remarks when concluding his 2015-16 Budget speech. Like Tsang, these issues are also of great concern to me.
As representative of the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong I was also on the scene to hear the financial secretary's predictions for the coming financial year. To be frank, I wasn't impressed by the contents of this latest Budget. Nevertheless, I regard it as a pragmatic approach. The total government expenditure in 2015-16 is set to reach HK$440.8 billion, with recurrent expenditure due to increase by 6 percent to HK$324.6 billion. In sectors like education, health and social welfare, spendings will continue to increase, reaching HK$79.3 billion, HK$70.6 billion and HK$67.7 billion respectively. This shows the determination of the SAR government to improve living conditions for Hong Kong people.
A point worth mentioning is the move to grant privileges to industries affected by the "Occupy Central" campaign. This includes tourism, hotel, catering, retail and transport. The government will implement an array of support measures targeting these industries and launch new measures to promote Hong Kong. There will be a temporary moratorium on various license and examination fees.
The 79-day illegal movement damaged the Hong Kong economy, the rule of law and social harmony. But the "pan-democrats" are continuing to frustrate the government. Since "Occupy", they have been constantly filibustering to hinder government proposals. Holding up the creation of an Innovation and Technology Bureau is a particularly worrying example of this. During last Wednesday's Legislative Council (LegCo) Budget speech, two members were ejected from the council chamber.
It is sad Hong Kong people have to experience such annoying behavior. Their constant assault on our harmonious social code has disrupted our lives. As the financial secretary noted, "Prolonged political bickering is detrimental to public administration and the international image of Hong Kong as a stable, law-abiding and efficient city."
Hong Kong, as an open society, accepts the views of different parties and respects discussion. It is natural that individuals hold varying opinions, but balanced views are crucial for freedom of expression. Pragmatism, objectiveness and reason are important when dealing with disputes. People are entitled to present their ideas - this is an important value neglected in the city during recent years. Politicians and interest groups have gone to extremes to push their views. This stops us finding real solutions to problems. Social divisions have deepened, further complicating the situation. Because of political bickering even normal government operations are facing difficulties.
For the sake of economic development, I hope the government and Hong Kong people act to overcome these problems. People should not allow political disputes to have a negative impact on the economy.
(HK Edition 03/06/2015 page10)