Hong Kong chief calls for 3-way collaboration in helping needed

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive Donald Tsang on Thursday urged Hong Kong people, the business sector and the city's government to work together to make contributions in helping those needed.

Elaborating on his annual policy address on a joint radio phone- in show in the day, Tsang said the Community Care Fund, unveiled on Wednesday in his blueprint, would be an ideal mechanism for the whole community to share the fruits of prosperity.

Of the 10 billion HK dollars (1.29 billion U.S. dollars) for the fund, the Hong Kong government and the business sector would each contribute 5 billion HK dollars to support people in need in areas not covered by the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Scheme.

Tsang said government policies may not be able to meet all demands from society, and the fund can cover those who are not able to benefit from the existing Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Scheme.

Tsang said he has received positive feedback from the business sector and he is confident its contribution will exceed the target during his tenure.

To ensure the best use of the fund, the Hong Kong government will keep the administration cost as low as possible, and the Chief Secretary will put forward an execution plan after consulting the community, he said.

Tsang denied there are any hostility emotions against the rich or the business sector in the community, and he believed Hong Kong people want fair and just treatment.

During the radio show, Tsang admitted the demands in Hong Kong' s society have changed and the government must adjust its policies accordingly.

The Hong Kong chief said he has gained a better understanding of the younger generation. That is why he set up channels in social networking media such as Facebook and blogs to garner opinions from young people and keep abreast of changes in society' s expectations.

Tsang also said Hong Kong's linked exchange rate system will remain unchanged during his tenure. (1 US dollar is equivalent to 7.760 HK dollars)

Source: Xinhua